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)

6. Chapter 5) Familiar Scenery

Chapter 5) Familiar Scenery

---

I feel like this has been the longest month of my life. The days creep by slowly, the hours feeling like years. It's like I've been thrown into battle, really. Perhaps, in a way, I have. A battle in the dark where I can neither see nor hear my enemy. Only fight.

At least my students seem to like the classes? Or are very good at pretending, which is honestly enough for me. It's not like I know what I'm doing…

---

"Miss Byleth?" It took me a moment to recognize Cyril's voice through the door. Mostly because I was busy arranging pairings for this saturday's group activities. I had about… seventy different combinations so far. Or maybe it was more. "Miss Byleth, are you here?"

"Ah, one moment!" I called, shaking my head. I rubbed at my eyes and stood up with a whimper. I had no idea how long I'd been sitting here working. Based on Sothis's quiet grumbling, it was a while. "Sorry, Cyril…" I opened the door finally and Cyril just frowned up at me. "I was in the middle of working."

"You've ink on your hands," he informed me. A quick glance showed he was right. "Anyway, Lady Rhea wants to see you. In her room."

"She does?" Why would she…? Oh, wait. "Maybe she found those pictures?"

"Pictures?"

"She said she had pictures of my parents' wedding." I hadn't thought she would call me to see them, but it was the only thing I could think of.

"Oh." Cyril continued frowning a bit. "Hey… um…"

"Hmm? Ah, if you're looking for Azrael, he's on patrol again."

"Thank you, but that wasn't what I wanted to say." He frowned even more. "Just… Lady Rhea is always fretting over you and Azrael. What you're doing or not doing or whatever. And she doesn't let just anyone visit her in her room."

"I imagine it's because she was close to my parents." Where was he going with this? Was it another 'how odd that you gained her favor' thing? Because if I was going to make it through the rest of this month, I'd rather not think of how I was a hostage. I had too much else to think on. "Dad was the Captain, and Mom was her assistant before she died."

"Well, she does worry about you two as much as Seteth does about Flayn." That… that was probably a good bit, based on what Flayn had told me during our midnight tea parties. "Anyway, please try to live up to her expectations? Lady Rhea is really nice." So I kept hearing. "She saved me, when I was being treated badly as a servant in House Goneril." That was Hilda's home. Why would he…? "And she doesn't care that I'm Almyran. Or that Shamir is from Dagda. Or-"

"Cyril." I crouched down to look him in the eye. "What I'm getting is that you hope I don't hurt Rhea's feelings, because you adore her. Yes?" After a moment, he nodded. "I wish I could promise that I absolutely won't, but unfortunately, I can't read minds. So, there may come a day when that happens unintentionally. But, I can at least promise to do my best."

"That's good enough for me." He smiled a little then. It wobbled, like he wasn't quite used to smiling. "Oh, but you don't have to talk to me like I'm a little kid. I know I'm short, but I'm fourteen."

"And I'm six or seven years older than you, depending on how birthdays line up." Without thinking about it, I ruffled his hair and he made a face. "I can promise you that I would have the same conversation with my students, if that makes you feel better."

"A little." Now he looked down, almost like he was embarrassed. "Anyway, I'd better leave word for Sir Azrael."

"And I'd best see if my guess is right." I straightened and glanced at my hands again. "...After I clean my hands."

"Please do. I clean Lady Rhea's room and ink can be difficult, especially once it's dried."

Once I washed the ink off, I headed up to Rhea's room. Which… I had to take a few guesses on where it was since I didn't actually know. But I assumed the room Dad took us to the day of the strange market trip was it. And it turned out that I was right. On multiple accounts, for once. Not only was it her room, but she had in fact found the portraits she'd spoken of that day and had wanted to show Azrael and me as soon as possible, worried she might forget with all her duties. I didn't mind. After all, she remembered a lot about the day too and was more than willing to tell.

"So, Alois was Dad's best man, huh?" I asked, picking up another portrait from the ones scattered across the bed. It was of Dad and Alois, with Alois somehow beaming while crying, looking like he was having the time of his life. Dad was laughing at something not captured on the paper, maybe whatever Alois had said. "Dad looks weird all dressed up."

"He always hated formal wear," Rhea revealed, chuckling. Not that it surprised me. The fanciest I'd ever seen Dad was… actually, I'd never seen him in anything one would call 'fancy'. "I think if he could've gotten away with it, he would've just worn casual clothes to his own wedding!"

"Did Mom not allow it or something?"

"Oh, Fiona didn't care. She was just happy about being with him. She would've worn casual clothes as well, though her 'casual' was always a little formal." Rhea sighed, shaking her head. I wondered just how they ended up in formal wear for their wedding then. Did Alois make them? Actually, Rhea might've. "Really, the only thing the two didn't protest or not care about were the rings. Has Jeralt shown them to you?"

"He has, yes." They were matching rings, both silver with the gems arranged like a flower (or star, as Azrael insisted). The only real difference was that Mom's was more purple, while Dad's was more blue. "They're pretty."

"The two designed them together. Something to help remind them of each other when apart, since Jeralt did have his missions still." Rhea picked up another picture and showed it to me. Immediately, I saw it was Mom, wearing a beautiful dress. White, of course, and with lace that looked like flowers. But I focused more on her smile. Her bright and beautiful smile. "To this day, I had never seen a bride so beautifully happy. Though I must admit to being biased."

We continued like that for a while, sitting on her bed and looking at all the pictures. All of them were amazing and I honestly could've spent hours upon hours just staring at them, particularly the ones of Mom. But there was one that was notable because of just how different it was from the rest. It wasn't of a wedding or any sort of ceremony or festivity. Instead, it was just a young boy, early teens perhaps, sitting on the steps of the monastery, listening to someone who wasn't fully in the picture. The colors were a little faded from age, but the boy's hair and eye color looked almost exactly like...

"Oh, that's Jeralt when he first joined the Knights," Rhea murmured, leaning in to study the picture. She smiled fondly at it. "Goodness, I forgot I had this. I should show it to him when he gets back."

"I never thought I would see a picture of Dad when he was little," I whispered. It was almost jarring. In my memories, he always seemed to stay the same. No wrinkles, no gray hairs… the only thing that changed might've been gaining one or two more scars. "He kind of reminds me of Azrael." Mostly because he wasn't all that broad in the picture.

"Fiona's influence on your looks is more obvious, but I can see Jeralt in both of you. Azrael's similarities are more pronounced, though." Was that so? What did I get, then? "I am glad we found this… it brings back memories…"

"He looks too young to be part of the Knights."

"The Knights of Seiros have always made exception for, say, talented mercenaries." Dad… had mentioned once he had been a child mercenary. It played a large role in why he hated that Azrael and I were in our first battle when we were ten. "But yes, he was quite young. Why, he couldn't even grow a full beard!"

"He does look strange without one." He had his hair in a braid, though. I wondered if he just had always worn it that way. "How did you meet?"

"Now that's a tale I don't tell often. Jeralt gets too embarrassed when I do." She muffled a laugh, and I realized this had to be the liveliest I'd seen her. "Let's see… I was traveling with a group of knights in secret. By chance, we ran into a group of mercenaries."

"And Dad was one of them?"

"Indeed, the youngest of the group. But among the most skilled, despite his youth." That didn't surprise me. "Since there was safety in numbers, all of us traveled together. It was good that we did, since we were ambushed by dissidents among the church along the way. The Knights and mercenaries fought fiercely. I did my best to assist with healing, but at some point, one of our attackers broke through the front guard. Just before their blade felled me, though, Jeralt shielded me instead."

"...Dad has a very large scar on his torso." It took up a good part of his chest and abdomen, even curling across his chest to his lower back. "Is this how he got it?"

"Indeed. He got it saving my life." She clasped her hands in her lap. "I don't truly remember the seconds afterwards. Only that I desperately tended to his wounds, trying anything and everything I could think of. Thankfully, my efforts weren't in vain."

"How did that lead him to join the knights?"

"Well, though my power was enough to keep him alive, he still had extensive injuries. As such, I made arrangements for him to recover here at the monastery." She smiled warmly and softly. "When he had recovered, I invited him to join the Knights and, to my delight, he agreed." So, that was how Dad became a knight, then. But that just made me more suspicious of why he had left. Particularly since I was almost certain it had something to do with her.

And then there was another question. Hanneman had told me, during our very first meeting, that Dad had been a soldier from Faerghus. Yet Rhea hadn't mentioned that at all. So, was this story a lie? It made no sense to lie like that, though. Particularly since she could tell the same story, just with soldiers instead of mercenaries. Something was off here. I knew it.

"Hmm… this all makes me wonder," Rhea murmured, catching my attention. After a moment, she peered at me curiously. "Based on how you and Azrael act around me, I'm guessing he never spoke of me."

"It was always sort of distant," I answered, deciding to not lie. I tried to think of the few times it came up, but came up blank. It… it honestly might've been others who brought her up. If at all. "Forgive me, but Azrael and I were never really interested in the church. We thought the stories were simply too… neat for Fodlan. Pretty, but too many questions." That was probably being too honest, actually. She was the Archbishop, after all. "I'm sorry."

"It's nothing to be sorry about." To my surprise, Rhea actually seemed pleased. Why in all of creation…? "Jeralt often complained of the same, truthfully." No wonder Azrael and I thought that way, then. Perhaps, then, she was pleased because it was like Dad? "Sadly, the truth is very complicated. Just as all things are."

"And, unfortunately, the priests we had contact with didn't exactly like questions either." ...I had to be fair here. "Not that Azrael and I were exactly polite with said questions."

"Did one of you ask 'what would the Knights do if they faced someone who was righteous and not of the faithful?'?" She laughed when I nodded. A rich and bright laugh. She was very pretty when smiling. "Jeralt used to use that question to make his recruits think instead of relying on blind faith. As I said, it's very easy to see his influence." She nodded, closing her eyes to think. "I must admit to being saddened he didn't mention me, but I imagine he talked very little of his past in general."

"He doesn't even tell us how old he is." Wait, she knew him for a while. "Do you know?"

"Hmm…" She thought for a moment. "276, perhaps?" What. "I jest. I'm sure it's something less. I think, at least." Okay, fine, no one was willing to answer that question.

"So, forever old, just like Azrael and I tease him."

"Now don't say that. I'm fairly certain I'm older." If so, it had to be by a couple of years at most. She looked the same age as him. "Now that I see this picture, I wonder if I have more from those years. I should-"

"Rhea?" There was a knock, followed by the door opening. I was surprised to see Seteth, since I would've thought he'd wait to be let in. "Ah, my apologies, I didn't think you would have a visitor," Seteth mumbled, his eyes going straight to me. I focused on the pictures scattered on the bed and pretended I hadn't even noticed him. "Arch-"

"Seteth, you know the rule," Rhea interrupted, standing and walking over to him. When I glanced up briefly, I swore she was sulking. "This is my room, where I rest. The Archbishop is somewhere outside."

"Well, I hope you find her before the meeting later today." Seteth sighed, but I noticed him smiling fondly. "Very well, Rhea." Rhea immediately smiled, visibly pleased. "Flayn told me that you missed breakfast. Are you feeling well?"

"I believe so. Certainly, I don't feel ill." Rhea rested a finger on her cheek, thinking. "I stayed up late last night working, so I slept in longer than usual."

"I told you to go ahead to bed."

"I felt bad, since you were still working. Did you even sleep?"

"That is not the issue here."

"So you didn't."

Their voices became quieter, and I felt it was safer to actually look up and watch them. They seemed in the middle of an argument, but there was a distinct playfulness to it. It reminded me a lot of Rebecca and Malcolm when they two of them 'argued' over whose turn it was to fuss over the other. An argument born from care and love. Given their coloring, I supposed the two even looked like siblings. Or, at least, family.

Though the thought of 'coloring' made me realize something. While green hair wasn't uncommon, and neither was green eyes, it was rather unusual to see someone with both. In fact, during all my travels… during all my travels, I'd only 'seen' one person with that specific coloring before coming here to the monastery: Sothis. Of course, I would never claim that I had seen every single person in Fodlan. That would be ridiculous. Still, that seemed like an unusual trait that… that Sothis would probably like hearing about, but she was 'asleep'. I wondered if I could 'wake' her, but decided against it. After all, it was just an interesting observation. For another, I sensed Azrael approaching.

"Rhea? Oh, whoops, sorry, Seteth!" Azrael laughed, carefully stepping around Seteth to enter the room. Seteth frowned at him, while Rhea muffled a laugh. "I was told you want to see…" I 'nudged' him through our bond and he looked over at me. Blinked a few times in shock when he saw what was on the bed. "Pictures? ...Wait, that's Mom, isn't it?!" And Azrael eagerly rushed over to me and plopped down to look over my shoulder. "Wow, there's so many of her…" I held up the one of Dad when he was a boy. "This can't be Dad! He's scrawny!"

"If he were taller, it would be the same build you have," I retorted, smiling a little. He rolled his eyes. "What? It is."

"And compared to Dad, I look scrawny!"

"You do not."

Azrael and I 'bickered', really just teased and joked, while looking through the pictures. At some point, Seteth left and Rhea sat down with us to tell us some stories. It was… it was a surprisingly enjoyable time.

But I would tell Azrael about the discrepancy between the stories about Dad's past. It could be nothing. But somehow, I was sure it wasn't.

---

I wasn't sure how the subject came up, but at some point while looking at the portraits, there was talk of the Four Saints. For some reason, Sothis insisted that I look into them, as a break from working. I tried to argue that I'd already taken a break, but she wouldn't budge. So, when I left Rhea's room, I headed to the library to see what I could find. I spotted Ignatz and Linhardt almost as soon as I walked in, but since both were enthralled with whatever they were reading, I didn't head over to greet them. Instead, I… attempted to find information on the Saints. And found myself confused over where to even start.

"Ah, good day to you, Byleth…" Thankfully, Tomas found me before I wasted too much time. "I see you have returned for more reading," he gently teased, chuckling. I shrugged, not ashamed at all by my love of books. "I still remember leading Fiona through the shelves… ah, but you don't need to listen to an old man's reminiscing. In fact, I may be wrong, but are you in need of assistance? Normally, you head right to the shelves, not stand in the middle of the room."

"Truthfully, I figured I should read a little on the Four Saints," I explained, relaxing. From what I understood, Tomas had served as the librarian here for over forty years. Though he had retired, he apparently found it unfulfilling and thus, returned to the monastery last year to continue working. "But I'm not sure where that would be."

"Ah, the Four Saints… a cornerstone to the Church, they are." Tomas smiled, easily leading me to a specific section of the library, up on the second floor. He ran his fingers over the spines of the books there, looking for one in particular. "Do you know their names?"

"I think it's Cichol, Indech, Macuil, and…" I never could pronounce the last one correctly. You'd think it would be easy, but… "Ke'len?"

"Cethleann." That's right… 'Seth-leen'. I always wanted to go with a hard 'c', like Cichol. "She was the only woman of the Four Saints, a powerful and gentle healer. Beloved by all for her empathy and kindness." I highly doubted the 'beloved by all' thing. No one had that much charisma. "She was the daughter of Saint Cichol. He was a compassionate and stern man, whose faith was so absolute that he could perform miracles."

"Such as?"

"With one swing of his spear, he could split the earth and call its wrath onto his enemies." That sounded like propaganda that may have involved some lucky timing. "It is said that when Saint Seiros was unable to take command, he was the one who led her forces as he was the one Saint Seiros trusted the most." His hand moved down a shelf, still looking. "Saint Macuil was known for a short temper and brusque nature, as well as his keen mind. He was the pioneer of the current magical system, and he served as Saint Seiros's tactician during the War of Heroes. He was also a talented blacksmith, and many say his strength was second only to Saint Seiros." So, good warrior, bad leader? "Though, despite that skill, it was Indech who was best know for his dexterity. It was as known as his wisdom and his difficulty with social interactions. Nonetheless, with bow and arrow in hand, he slew countless foes in countless battles, the first onto the field and the last to retreat." He finally plucked a book from the shelf and handed it to me. "Here you are."

"Thank you." I tucked the book against my chest. "So, what makes the Four Saints different from the Ten Elites?"

"Well, for one, the Four Saints were not granted a Relic. Their weapons were forged under their own power." Okay… "For another, they were blessed with greater power. One might even say they were the children of the Goddess, whereas the Elites were her champions."

"I don't quite understand the difference, but I'll take your word for it."

"Perhaps the book will help." Tomas smiled, but something… something in his gaze shifted. No longer kindly or warm, there was something almost sharp and cold to his eyes. And it made his smile terrifying. "Ah, I just thought of another example. I mentioned Saint Macuil was a pioneer of the current magical system, yes?" I nodded, my instincts screaming. Sothis was quick to reassure me… that she would stop time if need be. "Though he was a pioneer, he himself rarely used it. It is said that he simply commanded the wind and it obeyed. Whereas Saint Cethleann's healing was not based on Faith magic. She simply willed the body to heal."

"So, you're saying that their magic was different?"

"Yes, much different. The Elites were not capable of such feats. Though they were powerful and blessed, their power still followed the 'rules'." He watched me for a moment longer before chuckling. And all at once, his demeanor was back to warm and kindly. "Does that help?"

"It does." But now I wanted to run as fast as possible away from him. I had no idea what that was about, but I knew I needed to disappear quick before I even tried to think. "There's a shrine to the Saints, right? In the Cathedral?"

"Indeed, to the back right as you enter." He smiled warmly. But I still remembered the sharp and cold one he'd had just seconds ago. "The statues are due for restoration soon, but the area should still be open."

"Then I think I'll pay a visit." And get the hell out of here. Now.

I didn't run. I didn't want to alert anyone that I was unnerved. But I did walk briskly all the way to the Cathedral, not stopping for anything. I heard a couple of people greet me as I passed, but I pretended to be reading as I walked to conveniently not hear them. And I didn't stop my pace until I was all the way in the back corner alcove, which was thankfully devoid of people. Only then did I let myself 'relax', really just lean against the wall and wonder what the hell.

["I don't know what happened there, but maybe you shouldn't be alone with Tomas ever."] I sensed Sothis stroke my hair, and how her hand trembled. ["Interesting as that tidbit of information was."]

"Right…" I whispered, carefully looking around to make sure I was the only one here. Thankfully, I was. "Still, what he said…" That description reminded me of the magic Azrael and I used. But there was no way in hell that either of us were 'divinely blessed'. ...Except for the Crests we supposedly had, perhaps.

["Probably it's something more mundane, but because it looked extravagant, people labeled it as 'divine' instead of learning more."] She had a point there. ["So, these are the Four Saints?"]

"Supposedly." I turned slowly, looking at the four statues. Though I could see tiny chips and cracks from the wear of time, the details were still recognizable enough to see the fine workmanship of them. "They're probably just artistic renditions of them, forged long after their deaths. Might not even look like them."

["True…"] Strangely, Sothis sounded almost distracted. ["Their names, though… and even the faces on the statues..."] She spoke slowly and softly, and she almost sounded like she was in pain, though I sensed no pain from her. Could she even feel pain? ["Why are they so familiar?"]

"I have no idea. The names could simply be from cultural osmosis through my memories." I wasn't sure on the faces, but perhaps they just looked like people in my memories.

["Good point… oh!"] All at once, Sothis laughed. ["Look at Cethleann there! Doesn't she look a little like Flayn?"]

"Now that you mention it…" The statue's 'expression' was far more serious than I had ever seen Flayn, but I could find the similarities after a moment. "That must be why, then."

["Yes, it must be!"] Sothis giggled. ["It looks like there's inscriptions. Go take a read!"]

In an effort to try and pretend that encounter with Tomas never happened, I threw myself into studying. Sothis helped out as best as she could, and we compared the information in the book with the inscriptions on the statues. We also did a lot of speculating on the supposed 'miracles' the four were said to have performed. All in all, it ended up being surprisingly fun and relaxing. By the time I left the alcove, I even felt a little cheerful. Though, not cheerful enough to actually have a conversation with someone, but sadly, the universe seemed to like forcing me to be social.

"Oh, Professor!" Mercedes's voice was always recognizable, so I wasn't surprised when I turned and saw her approach. And, in retrospect, I shouldn't have expected her not to be here. She often spent her free time in the cathedral, either helping out or praying. "I didn't expect to find you here in the cathedral," she noted, giggling. "Are you here to pray?"

"No, I was studying about the Saints during a break," I answered. I held up my book so that she could see the title. "I was just heading back to work, though."

"Goodness, but it's so late in the evening!" She frowned worriedly. "Do you always work so late? I know that you're always up so early. Why, you gave me flowers first thing on my birthday!"

"I didn't want to forget in the chaos of the day." I shrugged, unbothered. "Did you like them?"

"Oh, yes! And I thought it was very sweet of you to make sure they matched Annie's!" It just felt right, really. I made sure there were a couple of different flowers, of course, and different ribbons. But it felt right to have them share at least one kind. "But I'm worried you're overtaxing yourself. You really must consider your health." She giggled, smiling. "The goddess won't smite you for relying on others to help, you know."

"Even so, it's simply part of the job."

"You think so…?" She frowned, this time studying me closely. Part of me felt the need to step back. "Hmm… you know… you might not like me saying this, but to be perfectly honest, when you first introduced yourself as our teacher, I had my doubts."

"That's not surprising. For one thing, you're older than me."

"Indeed, you're the same age as my younger brother." She had a brother? "And I thought that was much too young to be a professor. You have to admit it was unusual." Unfortunately, my being named 'professor' was a means to an end. "Yet, I can see why you were chosen. You're very composed and mature." Was that a nice way to say 'you have the emotional range of a particularly bland rock'? I think it was. "You're strong-willed, skilled beyond measure, encouraging, and you do your absolute best to ensure everyone is taken care of."

"That's… a lot of flattery."

"No, it's the truth. At least, it is the truth as I see it." She smiled sweetly, but then went right back to frowning. I recognized her expression now as 'concern'. "But I fear you might be trying too hard to be a good role model for us."

"I… assure you that I'm not trying to be a role model at all." Role model? Me? Who would use me as a model at all? "I am simply trying to do my best by you all."

"Well, if that's how you feel, then I can't exactly disagree. No matter my worries, I can't dictate your feelings." She still looked concerned, though. "But I do think it's necessary to take a break every now and then. A true break, where you relax and have fun. I'm not sure I've seen you grin or heard you laugh." She… would be waiting a long time for those. I'd never done either. "The mind tends to make mistakes when it's exhausted itself. Of course, I'm the type to make mistakes even when I'm wide awake."

"Mistakes?"

"Oh, yes." She made a face. "Always mixing up the times for meetings or misplacing items. I'd probably lose my head if it weren't attached." That was… that actually reminded me of an old story. A folktale about a girl who wore a ribbon around her neck. "Just the other day, when we were changing out during lunch, I forgot to actually put on my uniform and headed out to practice wearing only my… um…" She blushed, nervously giggling. "Well, you can imagine the embarrassment."

"Only a little. Growing up as a mercenary gave me a bit of a skewed view of propriety." I shrugged, not really bothered. "For instance, I used to walk around at night wearing one of Dad's old shirts. They're my night clothes. I didn't think anything was wrong until Dimitri yelped."

"Oh, poor Dimitri!" So she said, but she didn't bother hiding her laughter. Though I did notice then that she… well, she was the only one besides me to call Dimitri by name. I wondered why, but that wasn't my business. "Well, the point of the ramble was simply that I hope you don't push yourself too much. All of us are willing to assist wherever we can."

"I… thank you, Mercedes." What a strange… everyone here was so strange. Or did I just look so incompetent? ...Probably that, actually... "I'll keep it in mind."

"Please do." She smiled kindly. "Ah, but I best return to my prayers. I just happened to see you, so I thought I'd say hello!"

"Of course." She was still praying? What all did she pray about? "I'll see you tomorrow."

I had hoped that after leaving the cathedral, I could just head back to my room to work. I even took a couple of lesser used shortcuts I'd discovered over the month to better my chances. Sadly, I had no such luck. Mostly because Leonie was pacing right in front of my room, muttering and gesturing with a frustration that hinted she had been there a while.

"Leonie?" I called. She yelped, jumped, and nearly fell down the stairs. I pretended to not notice, since I doubted she'd want me commenting. "Did you need something?"

"I just had a question for you," she explained, jumping off the platform to stand in front of me. She held herself tall, with her chest puffed out, and while I normally wouldn't have noticed, it was different than how she usually stood. "Do you know how old Captain Jeralt is?" That was a random question. "I asked him before he left on that mission a couple of days ago, but he said he forgot."

"He's forever old." My 'answer' was immediate, probably because I'd just talked to Rhea about it. Leonie frowned, though. "Sorry, it's an old bit of teasing. Dad never remembers his age, so Azrael and I made that up instead."

"Huh." Her frown didn't disappear. In fact, it deepened. "So, do you respect him? Because it seems to me that you don't appreciate him."

"Huh?" Where did this come from? And how did we get here from the initial question?

"I mean… you knew nothing of his past. You wouldn't be half the person you are if not for him and yet..." She sighed, growling a bit. "It's like you have no idea how lucky you are to have him."

"I have no idea what sparked this, but I assure you that I am well aware of how lucky I am to have him as my dad." Not appreciate… why would she…? Did Dad say something? "And, for that matter, no, I don't know about his past. He never talked about it, and neither Azrael nor I pressed him for details because we didn't need to know. We love him and he loves us. That is something that doesn't change, nor will it ever change."

"Urgh… you piss me off!" She pointed at my dramatically. I tried to figure out what the hell was going on, and desperately 'asked' Sothis. Her own confusion fed my own. "Listen here! I don't care if I'm the student and you're the teacher. I'm going to outshine you! You may have been some famous mercenary before you got here, but I'll be better than you ever were! In fact, I'll surpass you in no time at all, so don't blink! You might miss it!"

She stormed off before I could reply, which was probably just as well since I… really had no idea what to say to that. I didn't understand why she felt the need to compare herself to me at all, much less 'outshine' me. Perhaps she simply hated me, and hated that she had to listen to me? Of course, given that ramble, it seemed like she didn't hate me for the usual reasons...

So, I was at a complete loss, but there was nothing I could do. So long as she respected me and learned, then… well, I couldn't complain.

---

After breakfast, I normally did my own daily training. I rarely had time once the day properly started, but I knew I had to stay in shape. Particularly since I was teaching people how to fight (and would be fighting on the field alongside them). I wouldn't call it an enjoyable experience by any means, practicing weaponry. Just a necessity to keep myself alive and healthy, much like you ate vegetables even when you really wanted sweets.

Normally, the training grounds were completely empty at the early hour, which was another reason why I liked practicing at this time. But, one day during the last week of the Harpstring Moon, someone else arrived while I was in the middle of my training. Jeritza. But he didn't pick up a training weapon or anything. Instead, he simply… watched. He watched me practice, making no noise whatsoever.

Eventually, I finished up and headed to the side where I set my towel. While there, I glanced at him, only to find him still watching me. Jeritza von Hrym… I didn't know him well. While he was supposedly a weaponry teacher, he primarily assisted Manuela and Hanneman with their cohorts, since both specialized in magic. So, he had little to do with my students and he socialized even less than I did. I think I heard he had been recommended by someone named Lord Arundel, a name that probably should be more familiar than it was. Especially since that personal recommendation was what landed him the teaching position. Much like how the church used Alois's recommendation for me as their excuse.

"You…" It was a surprise when he finally spoke. It honestly might've been the first time I'd heard him speak at all. "You seem to stare through me. Are you trying to discern friend or foe?" He spoke slowly and with deliberation, careful with each and every word. Like he had a thousand secrets that could spill out if he let his guard down. "Words do not show that well. Particularly mine," he continued, reaching up briefly to adjust his mask. I'd heard many rumors about why he wore one; the most popular guess was that he had a mess of scars he wished to hide. "If you wish to know, then you must know my blade."

"Are you asking for a spar?" I tried to translate. Weirdest way I'd ever heard someone ask. Then again, my experience with someone asking tended to be Felix's blunt question. "Well, I do have the time, I suppose."

The answer was 'yes', so I was glad I'd translated correctly. He grabbed a practice sword and we began. And he was skilled. I could tell that immediately. His stances were more reminiscent of a lance user than a swordsman, hinting swords were more of a secondary weapon for him, but it was barely noticeable. He was also highly perceptive, easily seeing through potential feints and tricks, such as me purposely lowering my guard in a spot to try and control where he struck. His hits were fast and strong, and each time our practice swords met, the 'clack' of the wood echoed loudly and made my teeth rattle. Honestly, it felt a lot like when I would spar with Dad in order to train up my guard or reflexes. Not that Jeritza was training me or anything, but I would say he was as skilled as Dad, when Dad held back a little.

But that feeling changed as the spar continued on. Slowly, a grin twisted onto what I could see of Jeritza's face. His eyes glittered with feverish madness. Each blow hit harder, faster, until it got to the point where if we had true blades, I'd have to watch out for sparks. As it was, I had to keep part of my attention on the training blades we used, to see if either splintered. My muscles screamed in pain. My lungs burned. Though I knew it had been only a handful of minutes, at most, I felt like I had been in pitched battle for hours.

Then, it happened. He slipped past my guard. I managed to turn enough to keep it from being a 'fatal' blow, but I caught it on my arm. I felt something snap. Felt my practice blade slip from a hand that no longer worked. Felt pain rip up to my shoulder. Sensed Azrael's panic as he sensed the echo of pain. But I had dealt with all of this before, in battle. So, I caught my fallen practice sword with my left hand and shoved myself forward, into and past his guard, to slip my blade up to strike his bared throat.

For a long moment, both of us stood there, with him towering over me, our faces far too close for my comfort, particularly when we were both sweating profusely and each breath felt like needles and fire. He still grinned like a madman. I regarded him as cooly as I could.

"You're skilled," he finally whispered, stepping back. Slowly, his grin faded, as did the maniacal light in his eyes. But I knew now that it was just masked. As masked as his face. "I am impressed. Next time, neither of us will hold back."

He left abruptly, the only outward sign of strain being a slight limp. I watched him leave before tossing my practice blade to the side and checking my arm. It was swollen, but the bone wasn't sticking out or anything. So, I poked and prodded at it until I could get it settled into the proper spot. While I knew from experience that the bone would move back into place even without me setting it, it healed faster if I took the extra step. Besides, it distracted me from thinking of the spar. How, towards the end, he had definitely...

["That was a killing intent."] Sothis's words were dark with anger and confirmed exactly what I had suspected. ["You should report it."]

"To who? There's no proof," I whispered, grabbing my towel to wipe my face. Only my word, and I doubted that would be enough. The best thing I could think of was to warn Azrael, since if he had been interested in my training, then he had to be interested in Azrael's as well. But, even then, I had to be careful. Otherwise, Azrael would try to kill him and I wasn't sure the monastery was up for a full out battle between the two. "We'll just be careful."

["I can understand so very well why your father kept you and Azrael as far from here as possible for as long as he could."] Yes, I could as well. After that spar with Jeritza… well, I'd honestly felt safer in the middle of a battle. ["Ah, someone else is here."] Really? Who the hell would be at the training grounds this-?

"Oh, so this is when you train." Felix. Of course it was Felix. Why wouldn't it have been Felix? And how did I go from usually having no one here in the mornings to having two? "I'd been wondering when you did," Felix commented, ignorant of my annoyance. I noticed his hair was tied back into a ponytail, instead of the usual bun. "Well, since you're here, want to spar?" Of course he asked. "Wait, what happened to your arm?" His eyes fell on the bruise, but I covered it with a towel before he could get a good look. "How did you hurt it?"

"I had a spar with Jeritza," I answered. Subtly, I opened and closed my fist, checking that everything was fine. The tips of my fingers felt like pins and needles, but otherwise, all was well. The bone had already healed. "But I believe I can manage one with you, if you would like."

"No, I don't want you held back." Well, that was considerate. Even though I'd hold back anyway, just by virtue of not using my magic. "I intend to eventually beat you and surpass your strength, after all. It's not right to claim victory due to a handicap." This was the second time someone talked of surpassing me. Why? I really didn't understand.

"Why the focus on strength?" I hadn't really meant to ask the question aloud. Or, rather, I had, but I had intended it to just be for Sothis.

"Huh. I… never really thought of that." However, Felix was here and, thus, he answered the question. "Since you traveled Fodlan, I'm sure you know what training is like for those of the kingdom. I learned to thrust a sword before I even learned how to read." Yes, that was more than typical of the Kingdom. Dad always rolled his eyes at it. "You're of no use if you can't swing a blade, no matter how mighty your Crest might be. It was the perfect environment for me, really." He shrugged, seemingly unbothered. Me? I disliked that sort of environment. I thought there was far more beauty in things that didn't involve battle. "Grow strong so that you may live, and live to grow stronger. That's what I was taught."

"And do you have any other ambitions besides growing stronger?"

"Why should I?" Felix scoffed. "Nothing is as important as the pursuit of strength." I could think of a thousand and one things, easily. "Do you disagree?"

"Does it matter if I do?" No point in arguing, though… "I'll watch you practice." Of course, my stomach protested. I was always starving after my weird healing fixed me up, particularly 'bigger heals' like a broken bone. But I couldn't really go anywhere until my arm healed a little more anyway. "Since I can't spar."

"Whatever."

Despite the scoff, Felix at least didn't seem to mind me watching. So, I did, keeping silent and giving him my full attention. On the surface, his swordsmanship was… basic. Skilled to be sure, but basic. Uniform. Practicing and mimicking what someone taught him, instead of blending the lessons into something his own. But that wasn't uncommon for those with minimal (or no) battle experience. And it was good to have the basics down. Basics kept you alive. Staying alive in battle was important. But the longer he practiced, the wilder the swings became. The more he scowled. The more he slipped from basic but controlled skill to the wild swings of someone backed into a corner.

And, eventually, I had to comment on it. "Felix, what are you running from?"

"Huh?" He missed a step in his routine and stumbled. "What are you…?" he asked between pants. He stared at me like he had no idea what I said. "Huh?"

"There's a desperation to your movements," I explained softly. "It leads to you overextending. Makes it all the harder for you to dodge and parry." I walked over and helped him adjust his stance to something much steadier. "You don't have to tell me, of course. But you should be aware of it." I stepped back and looked him over, checking how tired he was. "Go rest. You've been at it enough for the morning."

I thought he might protest, argue even, but after a long moment of staring, he simply… ducked his head and walked away. When he was gone, I checked my arm. A mottled bruise and nothing more, something that would disappear by the end of the day. Easy to explain away, even to Azrael who'd sensed the pain. It would've been harder with Dad, but Dad was off on a mission. He'd never have to know.

Still, I'd have to be wary of Jeritza, clearly. There was much more to him than what met the eye. Much more.

---

During lunch, Seteth asked to see me. That was unusual because if there had been some sort of problem, I had no doubts he'd seek me out instead. But when I got to his office, and saw Alois inside, I had a bad feeling just what this meant. The way Alois tried to smile and reassure me all but confirmed it.

"You and your cohort will likely be sent out in one week's time," Seteth informed me. Though he spoke softly, the words still hit like stones. "Alois and his group need assistance."

"I'm afraid so," Alois confirmed, sounding regretful. And maybe a little ashamed, but I wasn't sure on that one. "We have been investigating the bandits that attacked the students. The ones you fought in Remire." Those ones, huh? I'd kind of hoped we'd never have to deal with them again. "Unfortunately, they caught wind of our efforts and have scattered. Worse, one group has even kidnapped some of the locals." Probably to use as hostages, or living shields. Or both. "Oh, but Remire is fine. I checked personally." Oh, that was a relief…

"Unfortunately, the kidnappings changes things drastically." Seteth sighed, rubbing his eyes. He had dark circles under them… had he not been sleeping? I knew the bickering argument he and Rhea got into, but… "So…"

"I understand," I reassured. I didn't much like it, of course, but I understood. Hostage situations were always tricky, even for those with experience. My students had no experience with this sort of thing, and I certainly couldn't teach them. Much less try to do so within a week. "Why a week, then?"

"Scouting, primarily," Alois explained. He reached over and laid a hand on my head, much like Dad did to reassure people. "Scouting, and determining who would be best where. Though the kidnappers are priority, there's more than two groups."

"Ah, I see." I could see the pros and cons of the decision. More information was only a boon to any fighter. Though it did mean the captives spent more time with their captors, and that… that could lead to a whole mess of other troubles. Particularly with bandits, who were used to taking whatever they wanted with violence. "If that is the case, then I truly need to return to my students. Was there anything else?"

"Not yet, but I'll let you know as soon as I can."

"Okay."

Both Alois and Seteth continued talking quietly as I left. I closed the door behind me and leaned against it briefly, overwhelmed. One week… I had one week to train them before their first true battle together. That wasn't enough. Then again, there never would be enough time, really. It would be better if we didn't have to fight at all. Or, if there had to be a battle, then it would just be me. All I was good for was killing. That's what monsters did, after all… though, I had to also teach and leaning on the door certainly wasn't going to get that done.

I pushed off the door and managed two steps before I sensed Azrael behind me. I half-turned to greet him, but he decided to simply hug me and lean most of his weight on my back. Because of course he did.

"Azrael, I need to get to the training grounds," I 'complained', mostly to remind him that he couldn't just cuddle with me. Tempting as it was to just curl up with him and a good book to ignore the world, I couldn't. "I'm probably late."

"Actually, I'd like to come with you," he told me. I leaned my head back to frown a little at him. He hadn't been interested in watching my students train since that first day when I sparred against them. "Since I'll be with you during the mission."

"You will?" Relief washed through me at that. Knowing he'd be there to help was a balm to my nerves. "Really?"

"Oh, come on, we can never lie to each other."

"That doesn't mean you've gotten permission."

"I don't care what their regulations say. I don't need their permission to help you." He rolled his eyes, but before I could scold, he grinned. "That said, I do actually have permission. When I heard what was going on, I asked Rhea. Since the Archbishop's word trumps all…"

"You're terrible." Yet I couldn't help but be glad. "Then yes, please come with me. You need to see where they are and, truthfully, I could use the help. I need to teach them all I can in a short time."

"I'm not much of a teacher, but I'll do my best for you and them."

"Thank you."

Azrael held my hand as we headed to the training grounds. 'Just because', as if I wouldn't be able to sense the real reason was to continue reassuring me. I did slip my hand from his when we actually arrived, mostly because I had to at least try to pretend professionalism. Azrael made a face at that, but went along with it.

All of my students, of course, had beaten me there. Milling around the training grounds, bunched up in their house groups as was normal for them. They turned with smiles when I finally joined them. Smiles that quickly became confused when they saw Azrael. Well, except for Felix. He just looked intrigued. Probably because he'd been the only one with semi-regular contact with my twin.

"Hello!" Azrael greeted with a smile and wave. "I'll be joining you for your mission, so I'm here to see how you're doing training wise!" That hadn't exactly been how I'd planned on letting them know we got our orders…

"Before anyone asks, we'll discuss the details later," I said, cutting off any questions before they happened. I didn't want to waste time. "But yes, Azrael will be with us, and will be helping for the next week." ...Actually, he never said the week part. I immediately felt horrible at volunteering him. But Azrael quietly reassured me, and I sensed mischief amongst it. He'd been planning it anyway. "So, with that said, have you all done your warm ups yet?"

The answer had been 'no', which was a bit of a shame, but I couldn't really blame them because I had been the one who'd been late. So I had them warm up and then assigned everyone their weapons for the day, while also telling Azrael how to best help. Which was simultaneously easy and tricky. After all, Azrael rarely taught. He never cared enough to, he wasn't as inclined to analyze fighting patterns as I was, and he rarely remembered to hold back. So, his method of helping was more of grabbing a practice weapon and doing the drills alongside my students, showing them how it was done, while once in a while giving suggestions. That meant that, after some thought, I actually had him helping the mages and healers, hoping that his example would help them more than my trying to talk them through it.

"Ugh, I just can't get this…" Dorothea grumbled, pausing her drill to wipe the sweat from her brow. I glanced over from where I was watching Caspar, Raphael, and Dedue practice unarmed combat, just to make sure all was well. "Sir Azrael-"

"Okay, enough of that," Azrael sighed. I had wondered when he'd get tired of that. "Save the title for someone who earned it. Just call me by my name."

"So… Az?" That… that wasn't… "Sorry, I have a habit of shortening names."

"That's fine, but quick thing? Neither Byleth nor I like having our names shortened." Well, anymore, at least. When we were little, we hadn't minded. But then Dad let slip that Mom had actually picked out our names. After that, we didn't want them shortened. Our names… they had been a gift from Mom. Dad had been so touched that he'd nearly cried when Azrael and I explained our reasoning to him. "But do you need something… damn, I'm bad with names." I 'supplied' it via our bond, and he 'sent' his thanks. "Dorothy? Dorothea?" But he picked a different name first, to make a show of him thinking.

"Dorothea, yes. And I know I'm doing something wrong with this swing, but I can't tell what."

"Try it again and we'll see if I can pinpoint what it is."

"Thank you." Dorothea resumed the drill, and I returned my attention to the trio in front of me, content that everything was okay. And it was a good thing that I did because Caspar was repeating his most often mistake.

"Caspar, you're overexerting again," I chided, stopping him in the middle of his drill. His breathing was already shaky. "Deep breaths." I rubbed his back while he did as I asked and watched Raphael and Dedue. "Raphael, your kicks are at a bad angle. You need to aim both up and to the right. Dedue, your training gauntlet is coming loose again. Let me take a look at it." Either he was putting it on completely wrong, or it was defective. And I needed to know which one it was. "Raphael, Caspar, go get some water and take a breather." Both did as I asked and I headed over to Dedue, who had already taken off the gauntlets.

"Professor?" Dedue began quietly while I checked over his gauntlet. I made a noise to let him know I was listening. "Why are you having me train with hand to hand?"

"Do you want me to switch it?" I frowned a little when I found a troublesome strap. The base was loose. Now, was it a 'fixable' loose or…? "I can."

"No, I do not mind. In fact, I am grateful. I wish to be able to protect His Highness in all circumstances, including unarmed. I am simply… surprised."

"Well, part of it is exactly what you said." I tried fiddling with the strap. "You take his health and safety as seriously as a healer takes a gut wound. Since I know from a few jobs that often times, formal events forbid open weaponry, I figured it would be a good skill for you to know."

"What is the other reason?"

"Mostly? If you're using an axe as your primary weapon, you have to be one of two things. Strong, skilled, and fast or heavily armored. I have a sneaking suspicion you would be the latter." I glanced up at him, worried I'd offended, but he actually chuckled. "We could train you to be fast, but it's not your natural inclination. You're more of the 'stay and hold your ground' type."

"Yes, I am His Highness's shield."

"You live and breath, and you are irreplaceable to him. That doesn't describe a 'shield'. That describes a 'protector'." The words were a little more fierce than I meant them to be, as were my movements while checking the strap. So, I ended up breaking it entirely. Sothis snickered in my head. "Well, there was no fixing that if it came off that easily." I'd just pretend it wasn't my fault. Or, at least, completely my fault. "Regardless, heavy armor typically leads to slower and restricted movements. Unless you're on a horse. But your aptitude tests hinted you weren't the greatest with animals."

"They don't like me." He looked away, as if embarrassed. "No matter what happens, as soon as they see me, they're spooked."

"That so?" Weird, they were never that way with me. And I was drenched with blood and rot and death. "Then that's even more of a reason to keep you less armored. You can't mitigate your restricted movement with a horse, and given how Dimitri charges ahead, limiting your movements would prevent you from protecting him as you wish." I looked at the broken gauntlet in my hand and bit back a sigh. "You need to get another pair. If I've answered your question sufficiently enough…"

"You have." Dedue bowed. I really did long for the day people stopped doing that. "I shall find a new set and return to the drills."

"And I'll set these aside to be fixed." Or thrown out. Whichever was decided. "Get some water before resuming."

"Of course."

While I was figuring out where to leave the gauntlets, Azrael 'nudged' me through our connection, sensing that someone was here. After I finally found the box labeled 'for repairs', hidden in the darkest corner of the grounds for some reason, I went to see who our visitor might be, worried that it would be Jeritza. After that spar, I wasn't sure if I wanted him anywhere near my students, much less watching them train. But there was no need to worry because the visitor wasn't Jeritza. It was Dad.

"I thought you would be gone longer," I commented, walking over to him as quickly as I could. I made sure to 'tell' Azrael who was here, and was rewarded by his elation. We'd both missed Dad, after all. "Weren't you doing multiple jobs?"

"I was, but some information I came across is better reported sooner rather than later," Dad answered, pulling me into a hug. I frowned a little at him, worried, but he shook his head. "It might be nothing. Just rumors that the Western Church isn't exactly happy about the recent surge of foreigners allowed access to the church." He nodded at Petra, who Azrael was helping with her axe technique. I got the hint; they weren't happy the heir to Brigid was studying here. And probably a couple of other foreign-born students like Dedue. Plus, there was Cyril said… "You shouldn't have to worry about that, though."

"If you're sure…" I might have pressed the point, since it wouldn't surprise me if assassins were sent or something, but then I noticed Leonie was glancing us while she restrung her bow. And the previous conversation I'd had with her flashed through my head. Though I wanted to simply deny her accusation, I… "Hey, Dad?"

"Hmm?" He frowned, noticing my change in mood. "What is it?"

"Do… do you feel like I don't appreciate you?"

"Where in the world did you get a ridiculous idea like that?" Dad's answer was immediate. So immediate that I instantly felt ridiculous. "Is it because I've been on the job these past few days or something?"

"No, I just…" How was I supposed to explain this? "Someone mentioned something and-"

"That someone needs to get their head out of their ass." Dad pulled me into another hug, this time kissing my hair. I immediately tucked my head under his chin, listening to the comforting beat of his heart. It really was soothing… nothing wrong could happen so long as I could hear it. It had always been that way, and always would. "They probably just saw you being stoic and making assumptions like everyone else in the damn world. But their assumptions don't change what I know to be true. I love you and Azrael and I know you love me back. More to the point, I can see it, because I know you. You're my little girl, after all."

"That I am." I closed my eyes, relaxing finally. I still decided I'd make him an extra intricate garland for the next moon. Just to make sure he knew how much I loved him. "I'm sorry. It must seem so silly."

"Well, you've always taken other people's words to heart, as well as their emotions." Dad kissed my hair again before resting his cheek on my head, rocking me a little. Though I knew it wasn't professional, and I really needed to teach my students, I stayed right where I was, taking comfort from the reassuring warmth. "But that's why it's all the more important you hold onto the things you know are true. Now, what was it that I told you was the truest thing I know?"

"That you and Mom love Azrael and me more than anything and everything."

"That's right. And that's not a thing that can change that." He looked up at something. "Even when Azrael is trying to be a brat and sneak up on us." Hmm?"

"Aw, you caught me!" Azrael laughed, ducking under Dad's other arm to steal a hug of his own. I'd been so caught up in my thoughts that I hadn't sensed him. "Well, I was a little envious. I want a hug too!"

"You say that like I withhold them from you," Dad sighed, faking exasperation. His warm smile, the one that proclaimed just how much he loved his life at that moment, belied the attempt. "I'll have to leave either late today or before breakfast tomorrow depending, so how about we have dinner together to make up for the missed breakfast?"

"That sounds like fun!" Azrael glanced at me, and I hid a smile, not wanting anyone to notice just how happy I was at the idea. Of course, Dad and Azrael knew anyway, but still… "Maybe we should skip lunch to have an extra big appetite."

"You're forbidden from skipping meals. Or at least Byleth is." This time, I hid my face, embarrassed. Once, I'd tried skipping lunch. I'd ended up fainting a couple hours later and ended up actually having to go to a healer. "So, please, for the sake of your poor old dad, don't."

"Good point. I try to forget that happened." Apparently Azrael could barely sense me during the episode, the faintest I'd ever been in his head. "No skipping then."

"Good." Dad pulled us a little closer for a group hug before looking at me. "Anyway, Alois told me about the bandits. You want some more help today, kid?"

"Are you able?" I asked, surprised. And glad because… well, it was Dad. "You mentioned a report?"

"Already done," Dad reassured. He smiled reassuringly, and I studied his expression to try and discern any lies. But I didn't find any. "So?"

"If you can take over for Azrael with the healers and mages? Azrael can help me with the others. For one thing, I'd like to start training Felix to wield a blade in his off-hand." The spar with Jeritza reminded me of how crucial of a skill that was.

"Of course."

I had to say… it was kind of hilarious seeing how wide everyone's eyes got when Dad started helping. Particularly when he started lecturing the lance users while barely even looking at them because he was helping Mercedes with her sword grip. So, it took a bit of effort to stay on task, both for Azrael and me, because we wanted to just watch their reactions. But training took priority. I had to teach them everything I could and… and hope it would be enough.

---

I had wanted to work on new lesson plans. Switching some things up now that battle was on the horizon. However, Manuela decided otherwise. By which I mean she had snagged me as I was heading to my room and dragged me all the way to town. To the tavern, specifically, to drink with Catherine and Shamir again. I tried to think of why and how this exactly happened, and why I could think of hundreds of different tactics on the fly during the heat of battle but not come up with an excuse to get out of something like this.

"There are just things I'll never understand…" Manuela sighed, drowning her sorrows with ale. Catherine was already snickering, for some reason, though I barely heard it. Just like last time, the tavern was loud. "So, last knight I went out with this dashing, handsome, strong young knight…" She hummed in appreciation over the memory. "Oh, I'm a bit weak just remembering him…"

"And probably a little more than that!" Catherine laughed, grinning suggestively. She then immediately looked to me, for some reason. "Aw, no blush!"

"She was a mercenary. She's probably heard worse. Think about the stories Shamir has told us." Manuela sighed again, not going along with whatever joke Catherine had been trying to tell. At least, I thought there had been a joke? "Anyway, do you know what that no-good-jerk said when we got back to my room?"

"He didn't ask if you had a lady friend who could join in like the last one, did he?"

"No, he didn't. And it's not like I'd mind a threesome, but that needs to be established ahead of time. Not clearly using me to try and make a pass at a friend of mine." Manuela slammed her mug down on the table. Deciding that this was more information than I wanted to know about Manuela's sex life and seeing Shamir toss an ashtray at a grabby drunk, I passed her another one. "No, he said, and I quote: 'What a mess! I'm afraid to go in there!'"

"No…!" Catherine burst into loud, raucous laughter, tossing her head back and everything. She would've fallen out of her chair if Shamir hadn't caught the chair with her leg at the last second. "He didn't!"

"He did!" Manuela crossed her arms, harumphing with a scowl. "Can you believe it? You know who cares about being 'neat and tidy'?"

"Not you!"

"Not me, that's right!" This time, Manuela 'hmphed' and snatched her mug up again to down all the ale left in it in one gulp. "Afraid to go in there… some knight he is!"

"Considering I've seen that room, I'm not sure that's anything but common sense," I mumbled under my breath, remembering when I had to carry Manuela up to her room. Shamir, the only one who heard me, immediately snorted, quickly covering up a laugh. "Have you seen it?"

"I nearly broke my neck the one time I went in," Shamir confirmed, her slight smirk the only remnant of her previous laugh. Catherine and Manuela were too involved with dissecting all this knight's flaws to notice. "I refused to ever since."

"Once was enough for me as well." I took a sip of my ale, wishing I had anything else to drink. I just couldn't like it. While I had often heard words like 'sweet' and 'fruity' and 'full-bodied' (whatever that meant) used to describe ale, all I ever tasted was bitterness. Maybe it seemed sweeter when you were drunk? "Hey, Shamir?"

"Hmm?"

"Are you helping Alois?"

"I'm one of the scouts. I'll be heading out in the morning." She glanced at me. "Why ask?"

"I never heard how many groups there will be."

"Five, including your cohort." They had enough members to warrant that many? "Three are assigned to the kidnapping idiots." So, three 'sections'. Okay. That made a little more sense. It as still quite a few, but not unreasonably so. "Hopefully, we'll get some answers before they die."

"Will there be a bargain or something? Information in return to keeping their lives?"

"Hardly." Shamir actually scoffed. I didn't see what was so strange about it. "Rhea determines the final punishment and she doesn't do 'mercy'." She… huh?

"What are you doing?" Catherine suddenly asked, interrupting the conversation. She grinned at us, while Manuela flirted with the server and got a free drink. "You're not being social!"

"Do you really expect that of me?" Shamir asked dryly, rolling her eyes. Her smile was warm, though. "Really?"

"I at least expect snarky and snide comments! They're half of the fun!"

"For who?" Shamir rolled her eyes, smirking now. "Must I needle everything? Can I not simply be quiet?"

"Oh, please, you love it."

"Well, Manuela's stories are amusing." Shamir suddenly frowned and looked to the door. Catherine immediately tensed. "That was an unusual noise…" I had no idea how she could hear anything outside. The tavern was so loud that I couldn't hear the next table over. With that said, though...

"I'll go check," I volunteered, already standing. I couldn't resist seizing the easy escape from all the noise. "Maybe it's a cat." I wouldn't mind it being a cat. Especially if I could pet them to calm down.

It took a bit to weave my way around all the tables to make it to the front door, just because of how crowded it was. By the time I stepped outside, I was tempted to just head back to the monastery no matter what the source of the noise was. That is, until I saw just what it had to have been. A group of men were crowding around someone, backing them up against the outer wall of the tavern to keep them from escaping. Through the gap between people, I barely managed to see the trapped person was wearing the academy uniform. It wasn't until one of them stepped a little to the side, though, that I saw who it was and…

"Marianne?" I called, startled. A couple of the men glanced back at me, but all I cared about was that I heard Marianne squeak from surprise. "Marianne, what in all of creation are you doing out this late?" I pushed my way through the men to reach her. Noticing how pale and drawn her expression was, and how she trembled, I stood protectively in front of her and faced the men. "I don't know what business you have with my student, but I would ask that you let it be."

"Whoa, check out the rack on this one…" one of the men mumbled. They stared right at my chest, and I wondered if I'd spilled something on my shirt. "Hey, girlie, you looking for a good time?"

"Huh?" Why in creation did he ask that? I was so confused. And Sothis was asleep, damn it, so I couldn't 'ask' her. "While I appreciate the offer, I highly doubt you would provide me with a good time." After all, my idea of a 'good time' was curled up in bed reading, with Azrael and Dad as my only company.

"The hell?!" However, based on the man's sudden anger, I apparently said something wrong. I had no idea what was going on, other than I knew next time Manuela tried to drag me to drinks, I was going to conveniently busy. "You think you're too good for us, bitch?" Did I say that? All I said was… "I think someone needs some-"

"Ugh… is this really happening?" Manuela's groan cut off the man, and I got on the tips of my toes to see that she'd stepped out of the tavern for whatever reason. "I am nowhere near drunk enough to deal with this sort of idiocy…" she growled, glaring at the men. It was very different from her scowls and 'glares' at Hanneman. This one promised a world and hell of pain to whoever had been stupid enough to gain her ire. "Run along now."

"Wow… what a woman…" one breathed, looking Manuela up and down. I reached behind me to grab Marianne's hand and slowly led her around the men, out into a more open space so that she didn't feel quite as trapped. "So, good-looking-"

"Don't bother. Even I'm not that desperate." Manuela brought up her hand and a Faith magic spell-pattern flickered at her fingertips, with wisps of blue-white power 'curling' around it. "So, time to make a choice. You can walk away right now or I can remove a head you'll actually miss."

"Are you really threatening us?"

"No, of course not." Manuela smiled slowly and lifted a leg to casually remove one of the three knives she had strapped to it. The blade gleamed in the faint light from the tavern. "I'm just informing you that the price for harassing one of the students is a vasectomy. But I figured you didn't have the intellectual capacity to know what that word meant."

Two of the men lunged for her. Manuela… well, she proved true to her word. One ended up with a Nosferatu spell straight to the balls. The other got the dagger in the same place. I moved protectively in front of Marianne when the others in the group snarled and yelled. A couple caught their incapacitated fellows. The rest tried to go for Manuela. But they didn't really make it far.

"Well, well, aren't you lot some big boys?" Because Catherine stepped out of the tavern with a deceptively warm smile. "Looks like you lot don't know the rules of the monastery," she continued lightly. I wondered where Shamir was before I saw some movement in the nearby shadows. She was flanking the men while Catherine kept them busy. "I'd say 'show me yours and I'll show you mine', but somehow, I doubt it'll be much of a contest." Catherine casually stretched her arms, the movement emphasizing her biceps. "Suppose we should get the blood flowing to the upstairs head before we turn you in."

Catherine punched the closest one in the face to break their nose, and easily blocked the wild punch from another, flipping them over and slamming the heel of her boot into their groin. At around that point, I decided that whatever just happened was clearly under control, so my priority went to seeing Marianne safely back to the monastery.

"Marianne?" I began softly once we were out of sight of the tavern. Marianne immediately flinched. "What are you doing out so late?"

"Um… a kitten was lost… so I went looking for them…" she explained. She spoke more to the ground than to me. I had a feeling that if I weren't holding her hand still, she would've taken off by now. I hated that I scared her so much. "It took a while…"

"Did you find them?"

"Oh, yes…" She lifted her head a bit and smiled faintly. She had a pretty smile. "They were stuck in a tree and scared of a nearby dog…" Her smile actually grew a little. "Thanks to the climbing lessons, I was able to get them…"

"I see. I'm glad." I reached over and gently stroked her hair with my free hand. Her eyes widened at the gesture. "Next time, try to keep an eye on the time? You're past curfew."

"I'm sorry." She ducked her head again. "I just… really wanted to find them…"

"I would've done the same thing. In fact, I have." I leaned down a bit to catch Marianne's eye and smiled a little. "Gave my dad quite the scare." Marianne nodded and silence fell between us. I let it linger, not wanting to force Marianne to talk if she didn't want to.

"I'm sorry…" But apparently, there was something wrong with that, since she apologized. And even though she was right next to me, I barely heard her mumble. "I don't really know what to say. I'm bad at talking with people. I didn't interact with people too often before I came here."

"Why is that?"

"Oh, um… no reason!" That was spoken quickly, and with a bit of a squeak. There was a reason, but she didn't wish to share. Fair enough. "I'm simply not very good at it. It's just how I am."

"That's okay. I'm not very good at talking either, truthfully."

"Really?" Marianne glanced up, surprise evident in her expression. As well as dark circles under her eyes. Did she not sleep well? "You seem…"

"Well, I spent most of my life only with Dad and Azrael. Mercenaries are always on the move, after all." Safe enough to say. "So, you don't have to fret about talking. If you wish to speak, I will listen. But if you'd rather stay silent, that's fine as well."

"Um… thank you…" She looked down again. "But… um… you really shouldn't waste your time worrying about me. You can just ignore me."

"Is there a spell that stops you from worrying? Because I've found that worrying just happens, personally." I gently squeezed her hand. "And I can't ignore you. After all, I'm your teacher, and I wish to do my best for all of you. That includes you, Marianne." She didn't reply, so I didn't press the point. Instead, we walked in silence to the monastery and started heading for the dorms together. However, before we got there, I noticed there was someone else awake. The white hair automatically narrowed them down to two people. The lack of red on her clothes, as well as the lack of ribbons, hinted it was… "Lysithea?"

"AGH! GHOST!" Lysithea jumped like a cat splashed with water, and her yelp was as squeaky as a mouse. When she landed, she whirled, a spell pattern on her fingertips. Then she blinked slowly when she saw it was just Marianne and me. "Uh… hello?" she tentatively greeted, quickly hiding her hand behind her back. She cleared her throat, not quite looking at us. "I… evening? Haha…"

"That's two fawns up and about after curfew, then," I noted, deciding to not comment on the initial reaction. Marianne hid a little behind me, for whatever reason. "I know why Marianne is. Why are you?"

"Oh, I left something in the dining hall, so I was going to go fetch it." She paused. "But you don't need to come with me or anything! I'm fine on my own! Really!"

"I was more trying to figure out how you had forgotten, since you're usually very careful about your things."

"I-It happens, sometimes!" She sulked a little. It was strangely adorable, though I knew better than to say that. "I was distracted! There were way too many vegetables in today's meal! The ratio of vegetables to sweets was completely skewed!" She had a ratio? "...That last part wasn't aloud, was it?" Lysithea frowned at Marianne and me, and while I pretended otherwise, Marianne didn't have much of… oh, what did Dad call it? 'Poker face'? "W-well, everyone knows that a plate of sweets is preferable to a plate of vegetables! Regardless of age!"

"That's quite true, even though I know vegetables are healthier for me." Oh, how was I supposed to react to this? Probably better just to move along. "Regardless, even though you'll be fine alone, since it's after curfew, it probably is better that I walk with you. I wouldn't want you to get in trouble."

"Well, I suppose that would be nice. J-just because you're nice to be around!" She frowned up at me, looking strangely insistent. "It has nothing to do with my nonexistent fear of ghosts!"

"Mercedes was ghost-hunting earlier today, actually," Marianne murmured absently. She might've just been thinking aloud. "Said something about the monastery being filled with them."

"It is?!" Lysithea squeaked. She immediately latched onto my free arm. "W-well, let's just get my book? Don't want to disturb anyone, right? Ahaha… ha..."

"O-oh, I'm sure it's just her mistaking people for ghosts. Ashe thought I was a ghost the other night, actually."

"Ghosts aren't actually harmful, you know," I reassured them. Lysithea frowned at me dubiously. "They're not."

"Really?" Lysithea asked, skepticism making the word very dry. She tightened her grip on my arm, though. "Just to clarify, what's your definition of 'ghost'?"

"The spirit of a once-living person, who has not crossed the rivers of death to reach the afterlife." Dad had told Azrael and I many stories, partly because of some strange things I'd seen when I was very little. And also because we were curious about 'where Mama slept' and her journey there. "All ghosts can do is talk and, most of the time, they try to hide from the living. Or so the stories go."

"What about… you know… ghost stories?"

"Most of those are actually caused by things other than ghosts."

"...What things?!"

By the time I finished explaining, and we actually made it to the dining room to grab Lysithea's book, both Marianne and Lysithea refused to let go of me and gripped me so tightly I swore I'd bruise. The two of them actually ended up spending the night with me because they refused to let go. I supposed I really scared them, huh? I'd… ah… have to make it up to them somehow.

---

"I'm definitely going to want a variety of antidotes as well," I murmured, looking over everything Anna had. Earlier, I'd checked with Manuela about the 'basic first aid' was for students on missions, and my worrywart, paranoid self thought there should be a little more. At least in the pack that I'd bring. So, remembering what Dad had said about Anna, I'd gone looking for her in the market. And, thankfully, found her quickly. "Do you have more antiseptics?"

"At this rate, you're going to buy me out!" Anna laughed, fetching a couple more for me. She winked and tucked a couple of vulneraries among them. "Those ones are a gift, since you're buying so much."

"Thank you." One could never have too many vulneraries. Though, considering the amount of things on her counter now... "...I should've brought another basket."

"Here, you count out your coins and I'll handle the packing."

It was expensive. But good quality healing items tended to be, and it was less than what I'd paid in the past. Part of me thought longingly of the books I could've bought with the money instead, but I shoved that selfish part to the side. My students were more important, in multiple ways. Better to err on the paranoid side and have extras on things that could save their lives. Though it was still a lot… thankfully, being a professor apparently paid well. ...Or Rhea showed favoritism and simply paid me a good bit. I wasn't going to ever ask.

"There we go~!" Anna declared triumphantly. Somehow, she had gotten everything in the basket. She'd even stuffed some cloths in to keep the vials from clanging together. "All in a day's work!" She happily accepted my money, giggling a little. "So, this is for the bandits, right? The ones that went after the students?" I… had no idea how to answer that. "Merchants hear all sorts of rumors and gossip. And it's not like missions are secret for long. Even their shadowy ones."

"Then yes, it is," I answered quietly. I still wasn't sure if I should confirm it, but I did remember Dad liked her. So, I was willing to gamble a bit. "I'd like to keep a little extra in case they overextend."

"Always a good idea." She glanced around before leaning in to whisper to me. "Just be careful. I've a bad feeling about all this."

"Do you?"

"Mhmm…" Her eyes were sharp, but not cold or studying. Just highlighting the seriousness of her words. "The whole attack is weird. Bandits don't normally go after students here. They like living, and anything they gain in the short-term for attacking would be nothing but junk compared to what all they risk." She had a point there. Forget the church's retaliation… since most students were nobles, their families would get involved. "And these students had knights with them. Or at least, had them nearby. Bandits don't operate when knights are around." She was right about that too. Alois and his company had at least been close enough to secure the students, chase after the three heirs, and arrive not long after them. No matter how long battles felt, it couldn't have been more than a handful of minutes at most. "Makes me think someone hired them, personally. And that, of course, leads to its own questions."

"Yes, it does." 'Who hired them?' 'For what purpose?' Those were the primary questions in such a scenario. Given that they focused on the three heirs… did someone want to destabilize the countries further? "Thank you for the warning."

"Well, it's in my best interest. The dead don't exactly go shopping." She winked, resting a finger on her cheek, and I had to smile a little. "So, come back alive and buy some more, okay?"

"Okay."

"And if you need information… well, like I said, merchants hear a lot." She giggled. "Just be willing to trade a bit."

"I'll keep that in mind."

I left then, ducking along the edges of the crowd before heading down an alley. Probably a bit dangerous, but being in a crowd on my own just make me queasy. Besides, I had my basket to worry about, or so I told myself. But I did relax once I was out of the alley and walking along one of the lesser used streets. Not that it was empty, far from it. It just wasn't a crush of people ready to devour. You could actually pick out individual people, instead of everyone being blurred together in a ravenous blob of colors. I did slow a bit when I realized Sylvain was also out and about, talking with a very pretty woman. Or more like listening, since from where I was, she looked a little angry. When she slapped him and stormed off with frustrated tears gathered in her eyes, I decided she was very angry. Part of me wanted to chase after her and make sure she was okay, but as a professor, I had a duty to my students. So, I instead walked up to Sylvain, frowning slightly at him.

"Well, hello, professor~!" Sylvain greeted with a grin and bow. His cheek was a little red from the slap. "You look like you have something to say! I'm guessing about the scene you witnessed."

"Well, she seemed heartbroken," I 'answered'. I didn't know what he expected me to say, actually. But I was fairly certain that was either heartbreak or pissed off. Maybe both. "But it's not like I can get involved, right?"

"True. What happened is between me and her." He rested his arms behind his head, much as Claude did, and grinned. I wondered if it was as fake as Claude's own smiles. "But, well, you know how it is! Most relationships end in heartbreak."

"I wouldn't know."

"Wait, what? Pretty girl like you has never…?" For some reason, that really startled him. "I guess as a mercenary, you were more of the one night stand sort, then?"

"I'm not sure why you're asking, but no." I really didn't get why he seemed shocked by that information. Surely he didn't think there were people desperate enough for my 'company'. "Is there a point to this?"

"Sorry, I think my brain stopped. And… er… sorry, you're right in that it's not my business. Bad habit to talk as I think." Well, he and Azrael had that in common, then. "Anyway, about what you saw, I don't know what she's so upset about. Neither of us promised to date only each other, and she didn't care before she found out I was dating other girls. Why care now?" Uh… even I thought there was something a little twisted about that logic. "Ah, I should've been more careful. I do hate seeing girls cry."

"Is that a fact?"

"Believe what you will, but my heart is in a million different pieces right now!" His grin hinted otherwise, or so I thought at first. Sothis, however, thought she saw something else. A glimmer of truth to the words, as well as something else hidden underneath. "Professor, might you have a meal with me to help me mend my broken heart?"

"I doubt I can mend anything, but we can go for a meal."

"Wait, really?" How many times during this conversation was I going to surprise him? "Huh. I was kind of expecting… actually, I'm not sure what I was expecting. You never get mad or anything."

"Is this somehow different from when you drag me out of my room to each lunch with everyone?"

"...No, it's not." He smiled, and it was different from usual. There was some skepticism to it, and some incredulousness. But also something genuine to it. "Here, let me take your basket. There's this great place just down the way that I think you'll like. What were you shopping for anyway?"

"Things to bolster our medicines before the fight." I thought about protesting when he took my basket, but decided against it. "What Manuela has for us is good, but there are a few things that the academy doesn't consider 'standard' that I'd prefer having."

"Wow, you're really on top of things. Guess that's experience for you."

Thankfully, the place Sylvain took me wasn't the tavern where Manuela and Catherine liked to drink. Instead, it was a quieter place tucked in the corner of the marketplace, though it seemed just as busy. Still, there was a free table by the window and Sylvain led us there, pulling the chair out for me and waiting to sit until I had. My basket was tucked under the table itself, away from where Sylvain and I could accidentally kick it, just as one of the staff came over.

"Didn't I see you just this morning?" she asked, laughing. Sylvain just smiled and shrugged. "I don't think I'm met your companion, though." She leaned down a little to peer at my face. "No, I definitely haven't. I'd remember someone like her."

"This is my professor, Juliana," Sylvain answered, laughing a little. She immediately gasped, like there was something shocking about it. "Have I scandalized you? Really?"

"You shouldn't play games with your professor!" She lightly hit him with the rag on her apron and Sylvain just laughed. She must be a friend, then. "Sylvain!"

"What? Can you blame me? Look at her!" Sylvain grinned and winked. "Plus, she can kick my ass twelve hundred different ways."

"My, my~!" She giggled and smiled at me. "Don't let this charmer win easily! Make him work for it!"

"Juliana, my dear, must you throw thorns in my path?" Sylvain melodramatically gasped and gripped his chest like he'd taken a hit. Juliana laughed. "We'll take some waters to start for now, by the way." She nodded and skipped away, easily rattling off orders to someone. "Ah, I really do like this place! Always so friendly and cheerful."

"It seems you've been here a few times," I noted, a little confused. Why would she think…? Surely Sylvain wasn't that desperate? "Are you friends?"

"She made me swear not to go after her little sister and we could gossip about how pretty girls are," Sylvain 'answered'. I took a guess and decided he had flirted with her, but been refused because she was lesbian. Or she was bisexual and he wasn't her type. Or she just appreciated admiring girls. "Anyway, this is my treat, so get whatever you want. And as much as you want."

"...At the risk of embarrassing myself, you've seen how much I eat, right?"

"I have! You eat more than Raphael and Ingrid combined, easily. Hell, I think you out eat your twin, and he eats enough for four people." He grinned, unbothered. I just smiled a little, just as embarrassed as I thought I'd be. I was surprised he noticed that I ate more than Azrael, though. Most didn't. "However, I'm purposely very thrifty so that I can spoil those I take to dinner. Well, that and you had to be frugal back home. You never knew when a blizzard might take out all the stores." Yes, I had heard about that problem before. It was yet another reason why winters were troublesome in the Kingdom.

"Why do I have a feeling you'll keep insisting until I agree?"

"No one can say I'm not persistent~!" He grinned triumphantly, and I just decided to go ahead and accept defeat. Besides, I was hungry. "So, we'll be heading into battle soon, right?" I nodded, looking over the menu. "I see… Well, I've got some experience, though I worry about everyone else."

"Dimitri mentioned you'd fought before. You, Felix, Ingrid, and him, actually." And likely Dedue, though my memory was fuzzy at the moment. "I'm assuming bandits?"

"Ingrid has helped fight against one group, though her primary experience with battle is more with some of the creatures that wander up from Ailel… damn, bit my tongue on that name again." He made a face. "Galatea lands border the Valley of Torment." Ah, that place. It was probably one of the few areas of Fodlan I hadn't been. Dad avoided it like the plague. He wasn't fond of the heat. "Felix served as a squire while putting down a rebellion two years ago. Dimitri led it." For a brief moment, I thought a dark look crossed Sylvain's face. But it disappeared so quickly that even Sothis wasn't sure it had been there at all. "I've just been helping my family's knights with Sreng for a couple of years."

"I see." Sreng… that was the land to the north of the Kingdom. About twelve years ago, they attempted a massive invasion that was held back by the Kingdom's forces. It led to the southern half being annexed, while the various clans of Sreng were forced to the rocky desert of the northern half. It didn't surprise me that there was still trouble. "So, you have the most experience of the four of you."

"Well, I'm the oldest. I know; I know. Hard to believe." He grinned, but I thought there was something bitter to it. "But experience is a relative thing anyway, right?" I supposed that was true. "Still, sending us out to fight so early in the year? I don't remember Rodrigue mentioning that." Well, it was an unusual thing, but I wouldn't say that. "And against bandits? Doesn't Lady Rhea know lives are at stake? I mean… I lost my own brother to bandits." For a split second, I thought he looked panicked. But then he made a face. "Is… something someone has said at some point. Not my best attempt at humor. That sounded way better in my head."

Thankfully for Sylvain and his poor humor, Juliana returned with our waters then. We then ordered our food (with Sylvain repeatedly encouraging me to get all that I wanted), and she left to let the kitchens know. In what felt like no time at all, our food was ready and carried out to us. Though Juliana had to recruit some help to carry all my plates. I felt bad, but not for long. It was impossible to feel guilty when the food smelled this good. And it tasted even better.

"Ah… meals always taste better when you share them with a pretty girl," Sylvain sighed, smiling wide. He then noticed my confusion. Somehow. "Professor, you can't tell me you don't know how gorgeous you are."

"Is excessive flattery of your professors normal here?" I asked, perhaps a little too bluntly. But it was honestly a little ridiculous. Maybe it was just something they did to convey respect? I didn't see how, but… "I've heard quite a bit."

"Uh…" Sylvain frowned suddenly, studying me closely. After a moment, he leaned forward, watching me with serious eyes. "Professor, what do you think of yourself?"

"Huh?" That… what? "What do you mean?"

"If you had to describe yourself to someone, what would you say? Like…" He grinned, but his eyes were still serious. "Oh, like how I'd say I was a lazy good-for-nothing who likes the ladies!"

"Why would you describe yourself as that? You're good at swimming, and lancework. You have a keen eye for tactics, even if you prefer to stay quiet. And you certainly exert yourself when it comes to your dates, and trying to escape trouble." The only part of that 'description' that was true was the last bit. "Perhaps those are not things people wish for you to be good at or work for, but that doesn't change things."

"...Not sure if I'm more surprised by the words or by the fact that your expression didn't change one bit." Sylvain hummed a bit, his eyes narrowing. Scrutinizing me. "Well, regardless, it was just an example."

"I… see…?" What was the point of this? "I suppose I would say that I am a…" Monster, inhuman, abnormal… those words popped into my head first. But I didn't want to say them because they felt like razor sharp blades in my mouth. "A mercenary who is…" Hostage was on the tip of my tongue, but I knew better than to admit that aloud. "Somehow in charge of a group of talented students." That seemed simple enough. "Why ask?"

"Mmm… got a theory. Thought I'd test it out. And it seems I might just have been right, for once." Right about what? What was his answer? I didn't know and he didn't elaborate. He simply smiled and leaned back in his chair, studying me closely. "Anyway, we may be talented, but talent doesn't necessarily keep a person alive. But it can make stubborn idiots of us. So, I personally think we're lucky having you as a teacher."

"...I'm glad you think so." What else was I supposed to say? I needed to change the subject for my own sake… "Ah, that song reminded me. You really shouldn't force people to sing if they don't want to."

"Hmm? Oh! During last Friday's class!" Last Friday, 'sharing day' had turned into 'sharing songs' from their homes. And Sylvain had made Dimitri sing. "Sorry, I know objectively that I shouldn't, but I miss it." He fiddled with his glass, drawing something in the condensation. "It might be hard to believe, but Dimitri used to sing like… all the time. That or hum. It was as constant as the rising of the sun, and honestly, we loved it. Felix really loved it, actually, so it used to be an easy way to get him out of a grouchy mood." He smiled sadly. "But after what happened in Duscur, he stopped. Dedue's maybe heard him hum once during the past four years."

"I see." I finished my plate and went to the next one. "Something tells me that even if I ask you to stop, you won't."

"I am what I am! And that's-"

"...Someone who's worried about him." I watched his expression closely, and thus, I was barely able to catch his surprise. "Sorry, perhaps I shouldn't have said that. But, at the risk of offending you, I was reminded of when Azrael would try to cheer me up. So, I took a guess."

"Huh. Maybe Azrael and I should talk more, then." He was thoughtful for a moment. "But yeah, you're right. I worry about him. I worry about Ingrid and Felix too. I've known all of them since they were in diapers, after all. And Duscar hit all of us hard."

"Of course. I'd be surprised if it didn't." Another plate down, I moved to my last one. "If you need someone to listen to either your own troubles, or your worries on them, I am here. I can't promise to be able to do anything, but I can at least listen."

"...Thanks, Professor…" His smile then was a little shaky, and a little skeptical. But I thought it was the most genuine smile I'd seen out of him. "So, quick question. You going to want desert after all that? Because they have a separate menu for that."

"...Can I get dessert?"

"I told you to get as much as you want!" He laughed, and it was surprisingly bright. "If you need a reason, think of it as a 'thank you'. For looking after those three."

"While it's part of my job, I'm afraid I'm very weak to sugar and will take up the offer." Even though I knew I really shouldn't. "So, yes, I will want dessert."

"Excellent!"

I did make sure to check myself when ordering dessert. Even though all of it looked terribly tempting and delicious. No matter what Sylvain said, I didn't want to completely take advantage, after all.

---

"So, Professor, is Remire where you grew up?" Caspar asked as we all hiked down the road. In light of the coming battle, Rhea let us visit during the last 'free sunday' of the month. I used the opportunity to teach them about the plants along way, and have an impromptu lesson in properly bandaging a sprained ankle when Annette missed my warning about not walking close to the edges. There were a lot of hidden roots. "I didn't even know this place was here."

"Most don't, since I don't believe it shows up on most official maps," I replied, glancing back to check on Annette since I was reminded of her injury. She and Ashe were happily chatting about something while Dimitri carried her, so I wasn't too worried. "And no, it's just…" How did I explain why Remire was home? How out of all the villages and cities we had traveled to, only Remire hadn't treated me with hate and fear on sight? How in Remire, my apparent lack of emotions was just a 'quirk' and not a sign of my inhuman nature? "Five years ago, give or take, we happened to pass through while on a job. The people were kind, so we swung by again. It gradually turned into our home base after that."

"Really?" He frowned, like there was something strange to what I said. Perhaps there was. "Is there any custom thing we should know? Like… uh…"

"I'm not quite sure what you're asking, but try to not be too surprised by their warmness." I smiled a little when I stepped around a bend in the path and saw the buildings of Remire. It was a sight that always filled me with warmth. "They're strangely friendly."

"Byleth!" I didn't really get a chance to explain further, because in the distance, I heard my name. It took a moment to identify the speaker, but when we got closer, I saw Nicole rushing down the path to meet us. "Byleth, you're back!" she cheered, waving excitedly with both arms. "You're back! You're back!"

"I am…" I whispered, though she was still too far away to hear it. But I quickened my steps so that I could meet her even just half a second sooner, and I scooped her up into a hug as soon as I reached her. "Hey, Nicole…" I held her tightly and she giggled and hugged me around the neck, kissing my cheek. "Madeline told me you were doing okay. Are you?"

"I'm getting better every day!" One thing I loved about Nicole was how she was actually one of the few who didn't try to hide if she was feeling scared or if she hurt. It made it very easy to believe her, even if I would always fret. "I missed you, though."

"I missed you too." Just as I always did when I had to leave… "I have your charms hanging in my room, though."

"Really?" She laughed, bright and cheerful. "Good! I made more!"

"I can't wait to see them." More cheers caught my ear and I looked to see Crystal and Malcolm racing for me. "Ah, that's…"

"Byleth, welcome home!" Crystal excitedly greeted me, not bothering to slow down at all before tackling me with a hug. I barely managed to stay upright and that was more because Malcolm's own hug helped serve as a counterbalance. "We've been keeping watch all morning!"

"You have, huh?" I asked, not all that surprised. It was pretty common, whenever Dad wrote that we'd finished our job and would return soon. Still, I couldn't help but tease a little. "You didn't skip out on chores, did you?"

"No way! I was the bestest!" Crystal took my hand and Malcolm playfully slid behind me to start pushing me towards the village. "Come on, come on! Everyone's waiting!"

I did try to protest, mostly to try and at least introduce the three of them to my students. But there was no dampening their enthusiasm, or their haste in getting me to the village proper. I barely had time to tell my students to follow! And I didn't see how long it took for them to listen. As soon as Crystal and Malcolm got me to the village, I was immediately swarmed by everyone checking on me.

"Look at you! You're exhausted!" Annabelle scolded as soon as she reached me. She peered at my face for a moment before clicking her tongue. "I just knew you would overwork! You've barely slept!"

"I'm fine," I protested, setting Nicole down finally. She ducked away, no doubt to make sure she didn't get squished. "Really."

"I know you well enough to not trust that sentence from you!" She shook her head and sighed in exasperation, but then brushed my hair out of my face to kiss my forehead. "Well, no work for you today. You're going to relax and be spoiled."

"You're acting like I've been away on a hard job."

"You have!" She smiled, laughing. "I hope you've got your usual appetite. I'm cooking all your favorites!"

"But my favorites are all of your dishes." That was why when I wanted to learn more cooking, I had asked her for lessons. "All of them."

"Oh, you're just the sweetest~!" Annabelle blushed, pleased by the praise. I noticed, as I always did, that her smile was almost exactly like Crystal's. "Ah, I'm just full of energy now! Back to cooking for me!" She gave me a quick hug and ducked away, letting others come greet me.

"Think you've been missed?" Rebecca asked, appearing at my side. Louisa fussed and wriggled in her arms, reaching out to me with pudgy hands. "Well, Louisa sure has missed her favorite babysitter."

"Madeline is her favorite," I corrected, taking Louisa from her. I lifted Louisa high above my head and spun, knowing how much she liked this little 'game'. As always, it sparked a bright smile and bubbly laughter. And some drool, but I had made sure to hold her where the drool would fall on my shoulder and not my face. I had practice at this. "Ah, look at that pretty smile…" I tucked her close, nuzzling her cheek. She mouthed mine in return, a facsimile of a kiss. Or she was hungry and going after anything and everything she could potentially fit in her mouth. "Have you been a gooder girl for your mom?"

"Well, she lets me sleep finally." Rebecca's answer was dry and I had to hide a little smile. "I'll say that alone is an improvement."

"No longer colicky?"

"No, thankfully." She sighed in relief, and I was happy for her. I knew it had been particularly stressful for her. Luckily, she had a lot of help from everyone. "Ah, but I see you have another visitor. Let me take Louisa back."

"Sure." I almost asked what she'd meant, since I could hold Louisa while talking to others, but when I turned to greet whoever it was, I had another baby placed in my arms: Elijah. "Ah, that's what you meant. Hey, Chloe."

"Welcome home, dear," Chloe greeted, laughing. She smiled softly as she watched Elijah look at me with a slightly unfocused gaze and reached up to pat my cheek. And grab my hair to tug, but it wasn't too hard. "He needs to learn proper manners quick and proper manners include saying hello to people who save your life."

"Chloe, I really didn't do anything," I protested, since I really hadn't. Still, I cuddled Elijah, glad to feel his warmth. Those few minutes after his birth, when he wavered between life and death, had been terrifying. "Anyone could've done it."

"Perhaps, but the fact remains that you were the one who did." I… well… "Ah, Madeline, there you are. I was wondering where you were."

"I was just making arrangements~!" Madeline laughed, coming up from behind to hug both Elijah and me. It was a bit awkward, but she managed. "Anyway, we all know that Byleth won't just let us do the work, particularly when we're making her students help, so I came up with a brilliant idea!" Uh oh. This could be bad or terrible. "We'll just have her do her favorite work. She'll watch the kids with me!" ...Damn it, she was right. That was my favorite. "Seems like a good compromise to me." Madeline let go of me to take Louisa from Rebecca. Tucking her carefully against her shoulder, Madeline snagged me with her free hand and dragged me away. "Sorry, adorable menagerie, but we're stealing her back for a bit!" I knew I'd regret telling her about the nicknames. "Today's the best~!"

I did try to protest. Poorly and badly, but I did try. But then Malcolm asked if I'd watch him practice and Crystal wanted to show me how much she'd improved with her flower crowns, and Sera paused in her own chores long enough to ask if I'd leave some tactical problems for her and Richard. I was more than certain Madeline put them up to it, because there was no way I could refuse all of them, and if I was doing all those things, then I might as well watch the children and not do any other chores. It didn't help that I knew the others would take care of my students, given them tasks that wouldn't exceed their limitations and keep a careful eye on all of them. I still did my best to try and at least listen for everyone. I had to pretend I was actually doing my job.

"Are we really doing this?" I heard Lorenz ask Ferdinand. His face was scrunched up like he'd just walked through some corpses. "I am not certain these tasks are befitting my station…"

"Lorenz, is it not the duty of noblemen to protect and assist the common folk?" Ferdinand asked, with a deep frown. He was already rolling up his sleeves. "By learning these tasks, we can broaden our horizons and better understand their needs. What better way to learn than by doing?"

"But…" Lorenz looked like he'd swallowed a live fish. "Such work is…"

"Besides, our Professor brought us here to see her home. What better way to thank her for her tutelage than to help those she calls family?" Ferdinand smiled and approached someone I couldn't quite see from the angle I was at. Houses blocked the way. "I apologize for the delay, sir. You said we would be assisting you in the fields?"

"That's right," the someone replied. I recognized the voice as Zain's. "Which one are you?"

"I am Ferdinand von Aegir," Ferdinand introduced, bowing. Lorenz reluctantly followed, the two disappearing from my sight. "I will admit that I have no experience with such a task, so I fear I must apologize in advance for any mistakes I make." Though I knew Zain had replied, I couldn't quite hear. The trio were too far from me by then.

So, instead, I focused on Dorothea, since she was close. And was standing awkwardly in the middle of the street by Chloe's house, staring after the field-trio. "I… have to admit I didn't expect Ferdie to agree so easily," she mumbled. I wasn't sure she knew she was actually speaking. "That's rather surprising."

"What's surprising, dear?" Chloe asked, stepping out. Dorothea yelped and jumped, scrambling away before blinking slowly. "Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to scare you. Are you all right?" Dorothea nodded and relaxing, putting on a perfect smile. "I'm glad. Have you been assigned a task yet?"

"No, not yet." Dorothea's smile grew. "Is there something I can help you with?"

"Since Madeline and Byleth are watching the kids…" She pointed down the street where Madeline and I were surrounded. "It's the perfect time to wash blankets and linens, but I'm afraid I'm still recovering." Chloe made a face. She hated not being able to do things completely on her own. "Do you mind?"

"Not at all! Though, I've not done laundry in a while." Dorothea followed Chloe into the house, stopping briefly to pull back her hair into a ponytail. "In the opera, the staff handles it for us."

"You wouldn't happen to have been part of Mittelfrank, would you? Byleth will tell us summaries of some of the shows she's guarded."

"She says that like I've gone on and on about them," I mumbled, bouncing Elijah on my leg. Crystal, who was practicing her flower crowns, just smiled up at me. "I do not."

"Byleth, you've sung parts for us," Madeline teased, tucking a dozing Louisa against her shoulder. She used her free hand to hold something down for Nicole, probably some ribbons for a charm. "Should I try to repeat a few?"

"Please don't." I loved Madeline dearly, but she couldn't hold a tune to save her life. "Is Malcolm back yet?" He'd left to grab his practice sword.

"Not yet. Rebecca probably asked him for a bit of help first."

"Probably." Still, I looked around worriedly, hoping I'd see him soon. I didn't, but I did notice something else. Adam was up and about, apparently healthy enough to do so today, and he was staring right up at Dedue.

"Wow, you're big…!" Adam's voice was filled with awe, and it took me a moment to find him. He was all but hidden by Dedue's shadow. "How did you get so big?" he asked, tugging Dedue's sleeve. Dedue was visibly confused and surprised, which said a lot. "Was it milk and vegetables? Mom says that's what makes kids grow into big kids."

"I recall eating quite a few vegetable dishes, yes," Dedue answered after a moment. He glanced around, like he was looking for a reprieve. "Do I not scare you?"

"Should you?" Adam tilted his head curiously. "You're one of Byleth's students, right?"

"I am." Dedue hesitated. "I am also from Duscar."

"Really? That's way north, right?" Adam's eyes lit up before he remembered something. "Oh, but that means that you lost your mom and dad. Jeralt told us what happened. Are you okay?"

"...You are not afraid?"

"People can be stupid about weird things." Adam nodded decisively, his words certain and unshakable. "I mean… people call Byleth the 'Ashen Demon' and call her a monster and other stupid things. But she's the nicest person ever!" Oh, Adam… that wasn't true… "And Azrael is the Bloodstained Angel who 'delights in death', but that's not true. Azrael isn't fond of battles at all." Well, sort of. It was a little more complicated than that. "So, I don't think you're scary. Just big."

"...I see." That was all Dedue said, but his slight smile proved how touched he was by the words. "Thank you."

"Dedue is one of your cooking geniuses, right?" Madeline asked me, watching the scene. She grinned at my nod. "Thought so." She leaned forward and freed a hand to wave. "Annabelle!" I tried to quiet her, realizing what was gong on, but I was too late. "Dedue over here by Adam is a fantastic cook according to Byleth!"

Well, that sure as hell sealed Dedue's fate. As soon as Annabelle heard that, she snapped him up to recruit for cooking duty. And that was probably the last I really saw of my students for the day, because Chloe hadn't been joking. Everyone was determined that the only 'work' I would do was help Madeline with the kids, while they took care of my students.

I couldn't even pretend to protest. I loved being home too much.

---

"Ah, so that was why your students looked so sore!" Flayn giggled, walking with me. Eliza had insisted that I carry a basket back for Dad, since they hadn't settled on gifts when Madeline had visited with baskets for Azrael and me, and I'd dropped it off right on the desk to make sure Dad wouldn't miss it. Flayn had been reading in Seteth's office across the hall, but since she was meeting Rhea for something, she decided to walk part of the way with me. "That sounds like it would be so much fun… I do not have much experience of the world outside of the monastery."

"Well, you may not be my student, but perhaps I can ask Seteth…" I began, helping Flayn down the last step before we continued down the hall. Thinking of how protective Seteth was, and how much he disliked me, I amended the statement. "I can ask Rhea? Assuming we visit again, that is."

"Truly?" Her expression immediately brightened at the thought, and I resolved right then and there that I'd go ahead and do that. "Oh, I would love that! Convincing Seteth will be the hardest part, but…"

"I suppose you can't just tag along like you did for the market trip?"

"Do not tempt me so!" She made a face and I ducked my head to hide my slight smile."Seteth was furious about that. I believe he even tried to lecture Sir Jeralt!"

"How well did that go?"

"By the time I arrived, it had somehow turned into Sir Jeralt lecturing Seteth!" Flayn muffled her laugh with both of her hands, and I wished I had seen that no doubt amusing scene. Sothis also grumbled at missing it. "I do not think I had ever seen Seteth look so meek before!" She continued giggling, but her attention soon focused on something. "Aren't those your students?" She pointed to a group of students clustered around some of the tables in the reception hall, and I saw she was right. It was my students. All of them. "Perhaps…"

"I'd better make sure everything is okay." I didn't think I'd ever seen them all together, save for class activities. "I'll see you tonight, Flayn."

"Until then!" She waved and skipped off. I watched her leave before walking over to see just what was going on.

Edelgard was the first to notice me. "Perfect timing, Professor," she greeted, smiling at me. However, her smile wasn't her 'normal' one. It held a distinctly grim edge. "The knights just informed us that the bandits have been located."

"It seems that they have been cornered one group in Zanado, the Red Canyon," Hubert added, clasping his hands behind his back. Like this was a proper report or something. I wondered if the students had more ferreted out the information instead of the knights actually telling them. "I understand that will be where we are to confront them."

"They wouldn't give us more details on when, though…" Probably a couple of days at most.

"Regardless, it's bandit time, huh?" Raphael asked with a bright grin. I went cold when I saw that grin. "Sounds like real knight work! Let's get to it!"

"Yeah, I can't wait to get started!" Caspar declared, punching the air in excitement. I felt ill seeing that. "I'll strike down those heinous thieves before they knew what hit them!"

"Charge ahead if you must, Caspar, but please don't put the rest of us in danger," Ferdinand chided. Still, even he had a small smile on his face. "We'll perform our duty. That's all this is, really."

"Perhaps, but still, we can't let those underhanded thieves get away!" Ashe somewhat countered. Caspar immediately laughed and slung his arm around Ashe's shoulder. "Let's work together to take them out!"

"Well, certainly!"

"Yes, we will work with each other to achieve our mission," Petra agreed, with a determined frown. Her eyes were bright with excitement. "We can do this."

"Aren't you all getting ahead of yourself?" Felix sighed, shaking his head. He, as usual, was scowling. "It's just common bandits. Nothing to get excited over. Certainly no challenge."

"Did I use a wrong phrase again?" Petra instantly frowned, trying to think. "Mm… which one…?"

"You're fine, Petra," Sylvain reassured. He tugged Felix into a hug, which Felix immediately tried to squirm out of. It didn't work. "He's just being a spoilsport. I'm pretty excited myself. I mean… what if there's some cute lady thieves~?"

"Please keep your libido in control, Sylvain," Ingrid immediately groaned, facepalming. The others laughed, but I couldn't feel amused. They were all… "If you get stabbed because you let it rule your actions instead of your brain, I'll never forgive you."

"My dear Ingrid, I would never!"

"I mean it!"

"Um… maybe I should stay back here at the monastery…" Marianne mumbled, slowly trying to creep away from the group. Lysithea snagged her hand to stop her, though, and tugged her back. "I doubt I'll be of any help if I went…"

"I'm with Marianne here," Bernadetta agreed, also trying to slip away. She squeaked when everyone's attention focused on her. "No, seriously, I won't be of any help. And I don't like getting hurt, so…"

"Oh, don't worry, Bern," Dorothea reassured, pulling Bernadetta into a hug. She stiffened, like she wasn't sure what to do when someone hugged her. "Like Felix said, it's just bandits. They'll be no trouble for us." Oh, hell, I really felt sick now. How many times had I heard similar and seen those same people broken into pieces on the battlefield…?

"If nothing else, a real battle will be perfect for seeing how far we've come!" Annette pointed out, bouncing a bit from excitement. Dimitri tried to calm her with a hand on her shoulder, but she just grabbed his arm instead. "I mean… we've been training super hard!"

"We have! So, we'll be fine!"

"The mock battle with the knights also went well," Mercedes added, smiling serenely. I tried to point out that the knights hadn't been actively trying to kill them, but I couldn't make my voice work. I wished Sothis would help, but honestly, she was busy enough keeping me from outright panicking. "We'll be fine so long as we stay the course."

"Well, if we fight half as well as we chatter, then we'll be fine!" Claude laughed, clapping his hands to get everyone's attention. "But hey, if we're just going to keep talking, let's get some food! Lorenz had a good idea for once about us discussing some strategies over tea."

"Oh, that sounds wonderful! I know just the treat to bake for that!"

"So much excitement…" I mumbled, watching everyone leave in a giant group. Or almost everyone. Dimitri had stayed behind with me, for whatever reason. "I hope everything goes all right…"

"Perhaps we are a bit overly excited," he admitted. However, his smile was determined and showed no signs of anything but… well, excitement. "But all will be well. Especially since Azrael will be joining us. It'll be quite the sight, seeing you two in battle again."

"It's not a game." My words were harder than I intended and I ducked away, ashamed. For my own worries to bubble over like that… "I'm sorry. I…"

"...Your hands are shaking." Dimitri gently took one of my hands between his own, and I saw he was right. My hands were shaking. "They shook when you had that nightmare as well…"

"It happens. Sometimes." I thought about pulling my hand away and escaping, but… his hands were warm. Warm and gentle. And strangely grounding. "It's nothing to be concerned over."

"I beg to differ. While my intention had been to try and distract you, it seems I simply made your worries worse." To my surprise, he began blowing on my hands. "Your hands are cold."

"Are they?" That amused me for some reason. "Bernie called them warm that first day of class."

"Well, they normally are. But, right now, they're quite cold." And, so, he was blowing on them to try and restore the warmth. "I should apologize. I know the proper thing is to rub them, but I fear I might accidentally break your hand if I try."

"You're always worried about your strength."

"Things tend to break apart when I'm involved." The shadows in his eyes… they darkened briefly. But they receded just as quickly, especially when he smiled. "I prefer to be cautious when dealing with the living."

"Well, I doubt I could change your mind…" It did feel a bit odd, though. It felt like a gesture of affection, and strangers never gave me those. And, because of my magic, I was usually the one warming someone up. Not the other way around. "Just like I doubt I can change the others' minds…"

"What has you so worried?"

"You mean besides it being a battle when you have only one mock-battle's worth of experience when it comes to fighting together?" I really hadn't meant to be sarcastic. But the words came out dry anyway. "You know how long I've been battling. So, I have seen many step onto the battlefield for the first time. New mercenaries always have an air of arrogance to them. The unwavering belief in their invincibility because they have never looked death in the eye before." Without thinking about it, I found myself gripping his hands. "By the battle's end, however, they were broken. Mentally shattered from exhaustion and pain… or physically in pieces and strewn across the battlefield. Another rotting corpse to join the others."

"Professor…"

"So many times, I would see that. It was even worse for the supposedly 'easy' jobs. Things like bandit hunting. They would think it was just another step on the ladder of success. Kill a few bandits, make a name for themselves, and then get more prestigious jobs. Better paying jobs." The memory of how easily the others dismissed our enemy as 'simple bandits' made me feel ill. "Too often, they died in utter pain, their faces twisted in agony and fear." I didn't want my students to experience that. Truthfully, I didn't want them anywhere near the hell that was battle. Selfish and inconsiderate, of course, but… "Then there is simply where a little bit of bad luck seals your fate. You did everything right, but you were just unlucky and..." I could easily remember the times where a veteran mercenary went down just because an enemy managed to get a lucky hit in a vital spot. But I shouldn't be telling him all of this. I should be… I should… "I'm sorry…" I tried to step away, but Dimitri simply continued holding my hands. "I shouldn't ramble like this."

"No, no, those are…" Dimitri fell quiet, thinking of what to say. And still warming my cold hands. "I do not think those worries are unfounded. Many of us have never fought a true battle, before." He smiled kindly at me. Kindly and reassuring. "I will apologize for encouraging the excitement. I'm certain some of it is pre-battle nerves and a front in order to ease their spirits." That was a good point, I suppose. "While I know I cannot truly assuage your worries, I can promise to talk to the others and ensure they're aware of the seriousness of the situation. Will that help?"

"I…" I had no idea. But… "I don't think it will hurt, at least."

"Then I'll be sure to do that." He carefully began leading me out of the reception hall, still holding onto my hand. "I'm sure the others are wondering where you are. I don't know if everyone is actually discussing strategies, but if they are, perhaps that can help soothe your worries. If they're not, then hopefully their antics can cheer you."

"I doubt they're missing me." But, he was right. Standing here mulling over what all could happen… that wouldn't help them. "We should join them, though."

["Yes, join them and relax."] Sothis's 'order' was firm and brooked no argument. Yet, there was also a strange gentleness to it. ["You have me too, remember? We'll keep the children safe enough to learn from the first battle. I promise you."] Of course, and Azrael would be there to keep an eye as well. ["Exactly. Now, let the prince cub lead you to tea and sweets. I want to see if they've gotten into any arguments yet."]

To my relief, and Sothis's grumbling, no one was arguing when Dimitri and I finally joined the others. Some pointed comments, maybe, but nothing worse than that. I could only hope that was a good sign. I'd take what I could get.

---

As I had expected, we were ordered to march out two days later. It wasn't a long march, though. Zanado was easily within only a half-day's travel from the monastery. It seemed like the bandits that attacked the students had stayed close to the area for whatever reason. And they'd ended up trapped by the expansive walls of the canyon, and the sheer drops from the cliffs.

"So, this is the Red Canyon…" Edelgard murmured, looking around curiously. She wasn't the only one. Almost everyone was entranced. "A place of sacred significance to the Church, most aren't allowed to come here at all. We're quite lucky in that regard."

"It's like walking through a ruin," Dimitri noted, frowning up at a crumbled building high above us. It looked like it might once have been a home. "I certainly didn't expect that."

"What I didn't expect is the total lack of red," Claude observed, leaning on Edelgard, to the point of using her shoulder as an elbow rest. She glared at him, but he ignored it. "I mean… am I just missing the red?"

"Perhaps it is deeper in?" Edelgard suggested. She tried to shrug him off, but Claude pretended to not notice. "Regardless, we're here on a mission. We must be careful, or the cornered mice might bite us."

"It's not like mice can do a lot of damage," Caspar scoffed, rolling his eyes. He punched the air a few times before, to my horror, charging forward across the bridge. "First one is mine!"

"As if!" Leonie retorted, following just as quickly. I could only stare, shocked that they would be so reckless. "This is what I trained for, after all!" With that said, Felix passed her easily, reaching the bridge just as Caspar had. "Oh, now you've done it!"

So many followed. Raphael and Ignatz, with Claude not far behind with an irate Lorenz and a reluctant Hilda. Edelgard and Hubert, while Ferdinand shook his head and did his best to keep up. Dimitri and Dedue, with a laughing Sylvain trailing with an exasperated Ingrid. I watched it all, frozen, feeling like time had slowed. And, in that slowed time, I watched the fireball burst into life above one of the rocks. I watched it fly straight for the bridge. I watched my students scream and scramble to safety. I watched the fireball connect and destroy the bridge. And I watched them fall.

Caspar had just made it to the other side. Leonie only had because Felix had grabbed and thrown her just before the bridge fully collapsed. Both held onto Ignatz, pulling him up, because in the first split-seconds of the fall, Raphael had grabbed him and thrown him to safety. On the other side, Hilda and Lorenz watched in horror with the rest of us. Hilda had been far enough away to stay safe, but Lorenz hadn't. He was only safe because just before the bridge fell, Claude had shoved him back instead of running to safety himself.

As for those who actually fell… I saw Raphael smile in relief when Leonie and Caspar caught Ignatz, just before he hit the first of many rocks that smashed his body into pieces. Claude impacted next to him, sliding to a stop between two boulders instead of continuing to fall. I saw Hubert desperately try to reach for Edelgard, but not being able to reach before he was speared by a sharp rock, his broken body left dangling while Edelgard's continued to fall and bounce off the rocks until it was out of sight. I saw Dimitri snatch Felix and wrap himself around him protectively. I saw Dedue try to do the same for both of them, but Dimitri and Felix impacted first, while Dedue continued falling and falling until he was gone. I saw Felix shakily push himself up, bloodied and bruised and desperately shaking Dimitri. I saw Dimitri not react, and Felix scream.

Screams… there were so many screams. Wordless ones, names… it all blended together in my head. I couldn't make sense of it all. Only the horror, the pain… and then everything truly froze. A sound like shattered glass. The world's colors shifted to something unnatural, and nothing moved. Not even time…

["Well, I certainly expected them to last a bit longer."] Sothis's exasperation was palpable and, yet, filled me with relief as I remembered. Remembered what she could do. ["What we can do. I have given you this power. Did you forget?"] She sighed gustily, but I sensed her stroke my hair. ["No matter. It's not like you expected them to be so foolish right from the start. I can't blame you for feeling a little overwhelmed. Particularly since it is the first time people you've personally known have died in front of you."] She was right about that. All the others I had seen die… rarely had I even known their names, much less spent a month and a half talking to them. Teaching them. ["Let us turn back the hands of time, and save these delinquents, yes?"]

Slowly, everything reversed. Blood receded back into corpses. Bodies 'fell' up. The bridge pieced itself back together from the ash and splinters. The fire retreated behind the rock. My students ran backwards until we were all grouped up again. Then everything was still for a moment longer before the color and sound rushed back into the world. Time flowing forward once more.

"We must be careful," Edelgard said 'again'. This time, though, I was already moving to block the way to the bridge. "Or the cornered mice might bite us."

"It's not like mice can do a lot of damage," Caspar scoffed 'again'. He punched the air a few times, but this time, he only almost ran into me instead of onto the bridge. "Whoa, Professor! What gives?"

"I have a question for everyone," I began, looking at everyone. I paid closer attention to those I'd seen die, reassuring myself that they were, in fact, still alive. Sothis and I had erased their deaths. "We have bandits trapped, well aware that they will die if they are caught, and only one bridge. Why, then, is everyone charging across the bridge a detriment?"

"Well, if the bridge is the only way to reach them, then isn't it possible that they'd destroy the bridge in some way?" Ashe suggested hesitantly. He ducked his head when everyone looked at him. "I mean… if some of us were on it, it would take a lot of us out quickly. And it would buy them more time to hunt for some alternative way to escape."

"Particularly since we do not have fliers, which would be obvious by this point." I smiled faintly at Ashe, who shyly smiled back. "For a bridge like this, a single fire spell would suffice." And I knew where the mage was, but I couldn't let that show. Fortunately, however, there was a convenient bunch of trees. "So, someone with good eyes and aim, up into the tree, please. See if you can spot someone. Probably behind the rocks."

There was a bit of debate as to who should be the one to climb up. After all, the person had to be long-ranged, have good aim, and, perhaps most importantly, the ability to climb up to the highest parts. Eventually, Leonie was chosen and she climbed up to the highest branches before looking across the bridge. To my relief, she took the job seriously, though I wished she hadn't gasped when she spotted the mage hiding behind the rock. To her credit, though, she pulled out an arrow and shot immediately. The scream proved she'd hit true, but the length of the scream hinted they were still alive after the hit.

Azrael and I moved as one, quickly darting across the bridge to head for the scream. I reached them first and cut them down quickly. Unfortunately, though, the scream had echoed. If they hadn't known we were here before (and just left the mage as a scout), they did now…

Still, there was nothing to be done about it. It wasn't like they hadn't known pursuers were on the way. So, instead, we pushed forward, with Azrael and I taking point since we were the most experienced. All of us were silent as we walked, with my students twitching at every stray movement of the wind. I kept myself as relaxed as I could, since I knew from experience that being 'overly vigilant' might lead to you actually missing something key. Like the half-made trap just a short distance from the bridge.

Noticing the trap, Azrael glanced at me in question, nodded at my unspoken request, and continued on to look for more traps. I knelt by the one here to study it. A shallow, but noticeable hole, with sharpened pieces of wood next to it. Seemed they had attempted to make a classic pit fall and spike trap, but had decided they didn't have enough time. Or perhaps they were trying to focus our attention on the ground. I'd seen that before, and whenever something like that happened, it meant there was some sort of trap from above. Few thought to look up anyway, but something like this all but guaranteed that they…

A scream knocked me out of my thoughts, and I jerked my head up to see that my students had gone ahead without me. I wasted a precious second wondering why, before I actually got my feet moving. It wasn't hard to find everyone. I just had to follow the screams. And what I found was a mess. From what I could tell, they'd been ambushed and were desperately fighting for their lives without any regard for formations or anything. Briefly, I sensed for Azrael, and got nearly overwhelmed by his complete and utter confusion. He had no idea why the students had followed him. And now, they were all in…!

"Linhardt!" That particular scream… I jerked at the sound and whirled, desperately hunting for Linhardt. I found him in the middle of everything, a corpse at his feet. He stared with wide eyes at his trembling, bloody hands. Completely frozen, to the point that his complexion was gray and waxy looking. Shock. And, because of that, he died without a sound when a bandit split his skull.

Caspar screamed. No, roared, really. Roared, tears streaming down his face as he struck any and every bandit within reach. Uncaring of whatever injuries he picked up, he just kept on fighting. Berserking fury. Edelgard did her best to cover him, to keep another of them from dying. Mercedes rushed to Linhardt's corpse, to see if there was anything to be done. Marianne tried to do the same, but stumbled over a bandit's body. Leonie caught her before she fell and help her over, while Ignatz and Ashe fell in beside her to focus on coordinating covering fire. Not far away, Ferdinand and Dorothea fought side by side, with Dorothea throwing thunder spells with reckless abandon and Ferdinand kept anyone from coming too close.

All of them were focused on the fighting. All of them were focused on the ground. So, none of them heard the rumble until it was too late. Classic rock trap, probably prepped in advance thanks to magic. Down fell the rocks, and splat went my students.

Dorothea's heartbreaking scream, followed by her desperately calling for Ferdinand, drew attention first. But all one could see of Ferdinand now was his blood soaked hand, sticking out from between two rocks. It was more than what was left of Ignatz. All that could be seen now was the shattered glass and wire of his mangled glasses. And even that was more than what was left of Leonie and Ashe. There were no signs of them at all.

Not all caught had died, though. Marianne, sobbing from pain and fright, was trapped, her leg crushed by the rocks. Hilda hugged her, uncaring of the blood, and whispered reassurances. Claude joined them, stroking Marianne's hair, and watching as some of the others tried to move the rocks off of Petra. Her arm had been caught, but unlike Marianne, she was completely unconscious, so she had priority. Perhaps it might have gone faster if everyone cooperated, but on the other side of the pile, the rest were trying to save Sylvain and Ingrid. Somehow, someway, when the rocks came down, Sylvain managed to shield Ingrid, bearing the weight of boulders on his back to keep them from crushing Ingrid. It meant Ingrid was pinned by him, though, so it took some wriggling to free her, while also trying to move the boulders to save Sylvain.

Ingrid had just been pulled free when Sylvain's arms gave out and the remaining rocks smashed him to pulp. I swore her scream echoed even after I finally gathered the presence of mind to stop time.

It felt stranger, turning back time this go around. After all, I 'moved' with it. So, I couldn't really pay attention to what else all reversed. All I could do, really, was feel myself go against the current of time, feel the resistance of it, until I was back by the hole. I couldn't move my head or anything to see when my students 'returned', so I just had to wait until I 'felt' Azrael's agreement in my head again. Then I let time flow again.

This time, once the sound and color had returned, instead of studying the would-be-trap, I looked up immediately. That let me see my students following after Azrael. Only then did I realize what we had stupidly done. Azrael and I had done our normal thing, as if there were only the two of us, and left my students guessing. So, I made sure to 'tell' Azrael to stop. He did immediately, because he trusted me, and he turned, frowning with confusion. When he saw my students had been following him like ducklings, though, he… actually, he became more confused. But at least it wasn't at my 'order' anymore.

"Uh… why are you following me?" Azrael asked slowly. He frowned a little, but I knew it wasn't at the students exactly. It was because… because he knew me. He knew I would've spent some time studying the trap. He knew I wouldn't have looked up yet. Meaning he knew something was going on now. But, after a moment, he let it go. For now. "I'm at a loss."

"Should we not?" Edelgard asked in return. She looked at the other students, who were shuffling their feet, uncertain. "You're a Knight of Seiros and one of the leaders of this mission."

"Huh? Oh, no. No, no, no, no, and no." Azrael shook his head vigorously. I sensed he was torn between 'what the hell', fear over what could've happened, and just plain laughing at the ridiculousness of it all. "No, I'm no leader. You all don't follow me unless you're told to." He pointed at me. "You lot do the smart thing and just listen to Byleth. She's the smart one." I was not! Besides, I had never commanded anyone but him! Not in a real battle! ...Save for Remire, but that had been just three extra. Not twenty-four. "Stay with her unless she orders otherwise. I'm going ahead to spring a trap or two."

"You're what?"

"Azrael, you're supposed to simply look for more traps, not trigger them," I 'scolded', focusing fully on the present. He did this every time, and I scolded every time. It was just one of those things. "But there's bound to be one or two traps. At this point, probably a couple of ambushes." Well, I knew that was the case, but I couldn't say that. Reversing time sure led to some strange things. "But see this trap, everyone?" I waved them over to look. Azrael waited until they had gathered up behind me before slipping away. "Even with it incomplete like this, it would force most to keep an eye on their feet. Not on their surroundings, and especially not up." And since I knew now they'd taken the time to set up a rock fall trap, I knew this had been nothing more than bait. "Traps like this are more common when fighting bandits, but you should always be prepared for something like this."

"Even from knights?" Ingrid asked. I wasn't surprised she was the one asking. I also wasn't surprised she frowned. "That doesn't seem very-"

"Though the Kingdom is famous for its chivalry, they learned long ago that traps are sometimes the only way to keep their kingdom safe. Fire traps are particularly common, while their infantry is trained on quickly making a spear wall specifically to tear enemy cavalry to shreds." Belatedly, I wished I hadn't spoken so brusquely. But I couldn't think of a way to tactfully explain this. "All fighters are either trained to use traps or they learn from experience. Though, from what I've seen, it tends to be the latter." I debated whether or not to say more, but then I sensed Azrael's surprise and heard the rocks tumble. "Sounds like Azrael sprung a trap, just as he said he would." I 'reached' for him, worried, but he quickly reassured me that he was just fine. He just hadn't expected the rocks, but he appreciated the quick 'ladder' up. No big deal.

We ended up running towards the sound, though that was less because of me and more because of my students. I had to run to keep up with them, and I wondered just why they were running at all. I could only hope it wasn't excitement again, and reckless charging. But there wasn't time to worry, really. When we arrived at the rocks, there were a few bandits lingering about. We took care of them quickly, and everyone stopped then to survey the area. At least, that's what I thought at first.

"Where's Azrael?" Dorothea asked shakily, eyes darting around almost frantically. It took me a moment to realize that… that she was worried about Azrael. "I don't see…?" And that was when I realized that all of them were worried. Only Dimitri wasn't searching the area for some sign of him, and even then, he looked right at me. Because he alone knew of the bond between Azrael and me. I smiled slightly at him, not really sure what else to do, and he smiled back in relief. "Did he get caught?" Still, since I would've expected Azrael to have said something by now, I 'reached' for him and realized he hadn't noticed yet that we were here, distracted by his own fighting up above. He was almost done, though. He just had to throw… well, as soon as I got that, I snatched Dorothea's arm and yanked her towards me. Just in time, since the thrown body splatted in front of us. "W-what the…?!"

"Azrael, please refrain from throwing bodies," I called, 'sending' my exasperation to emphasize my words. While I waited for his response, I knelt down and checked the person. Realizing they were still alive, but wouldn't make it, I took out my dagger and slit their throat. No point in letting them linger and suffer. "They don't know to watch for that."

"Um… Professor? What… um…?" Poor Dorothea looked a little green. "Forgive me, but I thoroughly question the church's teachings right now. Not that I didn't before, mind. But I'm a little confused by how making us experience a real battle fits into that."

"The teachings outright state that murder is okay if it's in the name of the Goddess." I stood up and rolled my shoulder. "If you're wondering about what I said, I'm simply scolding Azrael."

"Right, that." She looked at the body before looking around. "That fell."

"It did. Azrael went up."

"Huh?"

"Wow, you all moved faster than I thought," Azrael noted, appearing at the edge of the cliff above us. Using the fallen rocks, he made his way down. I was exasperated by how bloodied he already was. "I scared a few out of an ambush, but I think they're attempting to set up further down for another try."

"How in the world are you that bloody?!" Lorenz yelped, frantically looking through his pockets for something. He pulled out a handkerchief and I couldn't help but be amused. "This will by no means remove it all, of course, but perhaps the worst can?"

"You guys know that I'm known as the 'Bloodstained Angel', right?" In contrast to my amusement, Azrael was just exasperated. "Save your handkerchief. For one thing, it can be used as padding for a bandage. For another, I'm just going to get bloodied again. It happens."

"How?!"

"Wind magic is arguably the messiest magic, particularly when used at close range. I use it in tandem with my weapons." He pushed some of his hair out of his face, and frowned when he pulled some tissue from behind his ear. "Huh. Wonder what this was."

"I… I think I might be ill."

"Wait until we actually reach the enemy, will you? It'll provide a good distraction." Azrael tilted his head and looked down the way. Already, bandits were visible. "See? There they are. Have at them or something."

Everyone barely had enough time to pull themselves together before the bandits were on us. As a result, the battle turned into a free-for-all far too quickly for my liking. No formations, people running around all over the place… it was a mess. It was a terrible mess. And due to that mess, there were a lot of mistakes and problems that might have… well, it was just another sign that I didn't really know what to do with so many people. I had to simply do what I could, sadly.

"Augh!" When Ingrid crumpled because of an arrow to the back of her leg, I rushed over to help her back up. "Ugh… I'm sorry, Professor…" she hissed, leaning on me to make it easier for her to limp. I simply shook my head and glanced around, wondering where the archer was. I hadn't seen any. In fact, I still couldn't. The only archers around were… ah. "I was careless…"

"Ingrid, no one exactly expects friendly fire," I reassured, focusing on the four who were using bows. Out of them, only Bernadetta was looking at us, with wide eyes and a pale face. "Well, I get to see if the healers know how to deal with arrow wounds?"

"I'm pleased to be of service?" She managed a grin, even with the sarcasm. "I'll be glad when it's out of my leg, though."

"When there is a breather, I have a few lectures for you all."

"Oh, yay."

I got Ingrid to Mercedes finally, and lingered just long enough to make sure she wouldn't do something well-intentioned, but ill-advised, like yank the arrow out or heal the wound while the arrows was still there. I did have to make sure she used antiseptic, instead of just healing the wound, and I made a mental note to talk to the healers about their spells. It was a common mistake, but when it came to piercing wounds… ah, that was for another time. There were other things to worry about.

Like Linhardt. Since I knew in that time I 'erased' that he would freeze if he killed, I kept an eye on him throughout the chaos. In fact, I did my best to keep him back from the fighting. Sadly, though, I was only one person and couldn't be everywhere. So, eventually, a bandit charged towards Linhardt and Linhardt instinctively cast a Wind spell to defend himself. And Linhardt learned first hand what Azrael meant by wind magic being the 'messiest'. Blood splattered everywhere. All over the ground. All over the corpse. All over Linhardt, who stared in horror. Stared at the blood dripping from his hands, complexion waxy and grey. Frozen. Unable to realize there was still danger. Unable to react as another bandit lunged for him.

But I could react, and I had been watching. So, I parried the bandit's axe before snaking my sword up to slice their throat open. I kicked them away as they fell and tossed my sword to my off hand. Then, thinking quickly, I wiped my free hand on my shirt and covered Linhardt's eyes.

"Can you hear me?" I whispered, standing close. Linhardt's only 'reply' was a garbled sound. Something between a sob and a scream. "Linhardt, can you hear me? Try to focus on me. I'm right here."

"P-Professor?" he wheezed. He coughed and tried to breathe, but couldn't quite manage a deep breath. "I… I killed them. I killed… what have I…? The blood…"

"Focus on breathing." Part of me wanted to turn back time just to erase this. To take him back to a time where he hadn't killed, hadn't felt someone else's blood between his fingers. But I knew I couldn't. It would be a selfish thing to do, and there was no way to guarantee he wouldn't have to kill again. Not if he wanted to stay in the Academy. I had no right to hold him back because of my own fears. "I'm going to lead you to a place where you can sit, okay?"

"Oh… okay…"

Carefully, I led Linhardt to the very edge of the battle, by the cliffs. I worried for another rock fall trap, but those things took time. Hopefully, they hadn't had time to make two, but I definitely needed to get a guard for him. Though, to my surprise, I didn't have to search for one at all. As soon as I got Linhardt seated with his back to the cliff, I turned and found Caspar right there with the most serious expression I'd ever seen him wear.

"I'll guard him," Caspar declared. No hesitation at all. "That's what he needs right now, right?"

"Yes, a guard and someone to ground him," I whispered. Without thinking, I pulled him into a quick hug, just long enough for a breath. Then I let go. "I'll see about getting you one or two more. You'll have to watch your surroundings and above."

"Got it." Caspar rested a hand on Linhardt's shoulder. Linhardt immediately reached up to cling. "Thank you." I didn't bother replying. I didn't see a reason for 'thanks' at all. So, I simply continued to fight and tried to pick out who would be best to help Caspar, and for anyone else who might need to be pulled off the field for a bit.

It was normal for people to scream when in pain. Screams of agony and fury were as part of the cacophony of battle as the screech of metal sliding on metal. It was sad how used to it you got, especially while you fought. As a result, I didn't quite understand why Bernadetta all of a sudden dropped her bow and start babbling, covering her ears. Not until I realized she was whispering 'I am so, so sorry' over and over again and I saw the bandit nearby that was dying slowly and painfully from an arrow. An arrow that had snapped and dislodged just enough, the blood pulsing out with each heartbeat. If the bandits had a healer, or anyone with medicinal skill, it would be survivable, but none of the bandits cared. Comradity wasn't exactly a big thing among bandits typically. Seemed these ones fit the stereotype.

"Bernadetta?" I whispered, walking over to her. She was still panicking and shaking, but thankfully, no bandit had realized the 'easy target'. "Bernadetta." I wiped the excess blood on my pant leg and pulled her into a hug, cradling her head against my shoulder. I wished I was cleaner for her, but the only people who made it through a battle without looking like they rolled in the mud and blood were the ones who just sat back and watched others do the fighting. "Easy."

"P-Professor?" she croaked finally. To my surprise, she clung to the front of my shirt. "I don't care if they were stealing! I want to go home!"

"...If I could get you home right this moment, I would." My heart keened bitterly. I couldn't do anything for her. For any of them. "Sadly, however, the fastest way to return is by killing the bandits. If we run, they will simply chase." She shuddered at the thought. "However, if you are willing, can you help Caspar guard Linhardt?" Was it a gamble? Oh, most certainly. But perhaps the focus would help...

"But I'm not strong enough for that!"

"You don't need to be strong to protect someone. Caspar just needs someone to help him keep an eye on the surroundings. All you would have to do is watch and tell him if there is danger coming."

"Th-that's it?" She took a deep, shuddering breath and looked up at me. Her face was stained with blood and dirt. "Really?"

"That's right. You can leave the fighting to Caspar."

"O-okay…" Though she still shook, she bent down to pick up her bow. She wobbled a little, but I steadied her. "Where is… no, wait, I see Caspar. I'll… I'll go to them."

"Thank you." I smiled faintly. "It's a big help." She smiled shakily and lurched off. I watched her, making sure no one tried to attack, and only turned away when I saw she had made it to Caspar.

"Argh!" Took a moment to figure out why Lorenz yelled. Took even longer to figure out why his nose was gushing blood. Raphael's quiet 'oops' before returning to fighting the closest bandit, however, gave me the hint I needed. Namely, while trying to punch a bandit, Raphael missed for whatever reason and hit Lorenz instead. Not that Lorenz should've been so close to Raphael in the first place, considering he was solely a 'mage' for the fight…

Shaking my head, I helped Lorenz fall back, making sure he kept his nose pinched and his head tilted down. Though 'fall back' was only a relative thing. It was near impossible to see any sort of 'lines' or anything and with everything so hectic… how was I supposed to fix this? I needed to keep them safe…

"Whoa!" Raphael's yell at first made me wonder what bit of friendly fire we had this time. But when I looked, I saw that hadn't been the case. The bandit Raphael had been fighting had collapsed with a crushed throat, but still managed to get a glancing blow on his leg before expiring. Raphael managed to kick the body away, but the pain and angle unbalanced him and he fell right on his ass. Not that it was much of a problem, at first. Dimitri immediately moved to protect Raphael from another bandit and Marianne arrived to begin treating Raphael's injury. Unfortunately, though, the bandits realized there were two easy targets and one broke away from fighting Edelgard to charge them. Raphael attempted to stand, but couldn't because of the pain, and Marianne… She hesitated. She hesitated for one long, crucial second and by the time she began to weave a spell, the bandit was already there…

But Dimitri killed the bandit before they struck Marianne, earning a nasty gash to the arm in the process. Marianne babbled apologies as she tried to somehow heal both Raphael and Dimitri at the same time. Before I could tell her that she couldn't, Mercedes appeared and took over for Dimitri. Her frown, however, screamed that something was wrong. That something was very wrong.

And then it all went wrong. Another bandit charged, blood trailing behind them as they ran. Fatally wounded, but determined to get one last kill before dying. And they did. Because before anyone could react, the bandit had reached the two healers. Dimitri tried to pull Mercedes to safety, or at least protect her, but the bandit… their axe snapped Dimitri's arm in half and thudded into Mercedes's neck.

When I froze time, Mercedes's head was only half attached, in the process of being ripped off. And I had to say that was a sight I would like to never see again.

This time, I couldn't wind back time too far. I wondered if it was a sign that I was growing tired. Certainly, I couldn't prevent Dimitri's injury. But I rewound time to just when the bandit began charging, and when I let time flow again, I gestured sharply and set the bandit on fire. Which I should've done last time, but I was an idiot. An idiot who thankfully could reverse some fatal mistakes.

["More like you were taken like surprise just like everyone else."] Sothis's scolding cut through the noise of battle as I jogged over to the group of four to see what was wrong. ["You'll notice that Azrael didn't do anything either and wind magic is much faster."] Yeah, but Azrael didn't care and wasn't watching. ["Oh, please. Wasn't watching is no excuse, and I can't believe you said he wouldn't care. He'd care for your sake and you know it."] I… well, no, she was right. Azrael would care, because he knew I'd be heartbroken. ["Precisely. Now stop beating yourself up! The bandits are doing that well enough anyway."]

"Let me take a look," I whispered to Mercedes, ignoring Sothis at that point. Mercedes moved so that I could kneel down next to Dimitri, and I rested my fingers on his arm to let my magic pulse through him. I found the problem immediately. "Ah. Poison." Though I could 'burn out' the poison with my magic, I decided to pull an antitoxin out of my pack and hand it to Mercedes. "The Heal spell is good for closing wounds, but only that. It doesn't really fix everything underneath, so it's only good for shallower injuries and for examining wounds in general. With infected or poisoned wounds, you have to use a Restore spell first and for deep injuries, like punctures, Recover will actually heal the wound from the inside out. Antiseptics and antitoxins are good replacements for the Restore spell, though."

"Oh, I didn't realize all of that," Mercedes murmured, flushing a little from embarrassment. But she applied the antitoxin evenly over Dimitri's wound. "I was taught that the Heal spell cleanses the injury. That's why I was surprised you insisted on the antiseptic."

"Well, it does, but just basic." What analogy did Dad use again…? Ah, right. "It's like running water over the wound. It does a good job, but it's not necessarily going to remove everything. Particularly when you're healing in the field."

"I see." Mercedes nodded and sighed in relief with her Heal spell worked properly this time. "I'm sorry, Professor. I clearly should've studied more."

"No, I should've taken you, Marianne, and Linhardt to the side and explain this the first day, instead of simply prepping." That was my mistake. I should've taught them better. "Marianne, how is Raphael?"

"He's fine," Marianne squeaked. For some reason, she was looked at something in the distance and she looked ill. "Oh, Goddess… please save their souls…" She covered her mouth and Raphael patted her on her back. "It took them so long to die…" I glanced over and saw the bandit that I had set on fire was well within sight. And the only corpse you could see clearly. "I…"

"...Normally, I try to follow up with a weapon strike for that reason," I murmured, realizing what she was talking about now. Even for a fatally wounded person, death by fire was rarely quick. I had been distracted, and left them to their agony. Damn it… I… "I'm sorry." What else could I say? What else could I do? It was my fault.

"Are all fire spells like that?"

"Most." Particularly powerful fire spells could at least knock the victim out first, so that they weren't conscious for the last moments. But…

"Byleth?" Azrael called, adding a little 'nudge' to make sure he had my attention. I stood and found him immediately up on the rocks. "We've got more coming." Of course we did. "And, guess what, it includes that bandit that almost killed Edelgard at Remire." The leader? What was the leader doing here? Well, that just made… no, I couldn't think of that now. Battles required few distractions.

"Okay." I 'asked' Azrael for the direction. North or west. He pointed north, so I quickly made a wall of fire to buy us a little bit of time. "Everyone." I turned and did my best to look each of my students in the eye. "I must apologize for letting things get so out of control, but we can't afford more of that. There's only so many times one can cast spells in a day, after all. We may have three healers, but they must be growing tired." Marianne winced at that. I was right, then. "So, while we have this breathing room, we need to organize ourselves immediately. Formations are key. Healers should have their own area set up behind all the lines, so that they are not running around and putting themselves in danger tending to the wounded. And so that the wounded know where to go to be healed. Archers and mages need to be set up to cover the front, to minimize the chances of friendly fire. Or them getting punched in the face." I tried to say that last one like it was a joke, but it wasn't very funny since that did actually happen. Lorenz's groan, however, sparked some chuckles. "Mages and healers, estimate how many spells you have left. Archers, count your arrows. Everyone else, form up now."

When the flames died, the bandits charged. But, thankfully, we were ready. So, while the battle was still chaos and messy, it was more organized. 'Safer', if the word could be used for a battle at all. That wasn't to say we didn't still have near misses, nor that we didn't still have some friendly fire. Though I had to admit that one bit of 'friendly fire' wasn't expected. At all. Somehow, one of Lysithea's spells… well, it punched straight through one of the bandits. And a second. And because of that, and the angle, it almost hit Dedue, just barely missing his face. Lysithea's wide eyes hinted she hadn't intended for that to happen. At all.

"Sorry!" she shouted. Dedue just shrugged and went right back to the fighting. I was impressed and worried that he wasn't more rattled. "Oh, man… I'll need to watch out for that, huh?"

"I have to admit that is a bit of a new one," I commented, not really thinking about it. Lysithea winced. "Normally you only see something like that with, say, Thoron."

"Then I'm definitely never learning that spell. Ever. Annette or Dorothea or Hubert can take that one."

"Whatever you want." I frowned when I noticed how pale she was. Her skin was almost translucent. "Lysithea?"

"I'm fine." She sounded waspish and defensive. So, I gently touched her cheek and sent my magic through. Exhaustion, but that was to be expected. "Told you."

"Sorry, you're just very pale, and you've told me that you're not the most physical fit."

"That's true. But, I'm still okay. I don't have time to worry." Well, that was a good way to think about things. I suppose. "I promise I'll fall back if I start feeling dizzy or ill, though."

"Good." I smiled slightly, and almost stroked her hair. What stopped me was the blood on my hands. I didn't want to stain her hair. "Then I'll try to not worry anymore than I do for everyone else."

"Thank you."

I left her to it, and continued fighting. I flitted about the battle, since I purposely hadn't put Azrael or myself 'in formation' like the others. I had wanted us to have the freedom to move around more, to provide assistance as needed. Typically, it was just helping everyone keep pace with each other and guarding weak points. But not all.

"Whew…" Caspar breathed, trembling as a bandit he fatally struck fell. Battle-fever? Panic? Not sure. "Are all real battles this excit-YOW!" The bandit lurched back up, axe swinging in a wide arc. But Azrael cut of their head before Caspar was hurt. "Er…"

"I suppose this is where I'm supposed to 'quiz' you on what's the difference between 'fatal' and 'dead'?" Azrael teased. He patted Caspar on the back and Caspar just grimaced. "Hey, it's okay. I've made the mistake too, and I've the scars to prove it. Just try to keep it in mind, and there's nothing wrong with making sure."

"I'll remember." Caspar used his shoulder to try and wipe off some of the sweat. "Okay…. Ah, damn, I'm out of the formation! I need to get back!"

"I'll help you there."

Caspar's mention of 'formations' made me realize I should step back and see what should be reorganized. So, I did so, viewing the battlefield. Caspar was right in that he'd been 'out', but those near him had seen and anticipated that, so they covered the would-be gap until he could slip back in. Azrael left him to go reinforce the right flank, while center and left were holding fine. Or, at least, they were.

At some point, Hilda fell back slightly. Stumbled? Tiredness? I didn't know, and it didn't matter. Because her falling back left a gap just large enough for a bandit to slip through, and one seized it. Seized it and charged, far too quickly for anyone to catch, right to Lysithea. Lysithea tried to bring up a spell in time, but couldn't. The spell pattern was only half-formed when the axe split her skull, and had almost faded by the time I froze time once more.

It… hurt this time. I felt like I was ripping off my own skin as I forced the hands of time to turn back. The pain quickly became too much, and I couldn't focus. So, time 'unfroze' sooner than I would've liked and I stumbled and staggered when it did, my lungs feeling like they had been torn to shreds. Still, I grit my teeth and made myself run to Lysithea, just as the bandit slipped past Hilda. I tried to burn the bandit, but my vision blurred too much for me to safely aim. My feet barely cooperated to keep my upright, so the bandit was already swinging for Lysithea when I made it to her. So, all I could do was tackle Lysithea out of the way, gaining a glancing blow across my back from the axe.

"Professor!" Lysithea gasped, scrambling to sit up to try and cast a spell at the bandit. She didn't have to, though. Dorothea and Annette struck with their magic, and if they hadn't been dead from the spells, the arrow through the eye definitely killed them. "Professor, are-?"

"Are you okay?" I asked, a little breathless. It still hurt to breath. But I did my best to hide that as I placed my hands on her face and used my magic to check her over. To my relief, there were no significant injuries. Just some bruises. "I made it…" I thought I might not for a second there.

"Professor…" Lysithea stared at me for a long moment before resting her head against my shoulder. "Yeah, I'm okay. Guess I got a firsthand look at why swords are important, huh?"

"I suppose you did." With some effort, I pushed myself up and helped Lysithea stand. The wound on my back felt stiff, but otherwise had already healed. "Do you need a moment?"

"No, though I am running low on spells."

"In that case, probably best for you to focus on guarding the healers." I brushed some dust off her back. I looked about for my sword, but I didn't see it. I must've lost it on the way. "Can you do that?"

"I'm on it."

When I looked back at the 'front line', I saw Hilda was back in her spot, mostly. The left flank was a little behind the rest, which was worrisome, but not detrimental since the mages and archers were able to cover. Still, I knew I should try and fill in the gap myself. Except, when I took a step, I realized I tasted iron. A second after that realization, I started coughing, though I was quick to cover my mouth. When I pulled my hand away, though, I saw speckles of blood. Well, that was a thing. That was certainly a thing. But there wasn't time to dwell on it.

"Boar!" Because we had another 'friendly fire' incident. Hubert's spell went off course, heading straight for Dimitri. It would've hit him right in the head if Felix hadn't tackled him to the ground first. "The hell was that?!" Felix snapped, scrambling up. I forced myself to rush over to assist, especially when I saw some bandits converging. But Sylvain had them covered. I wondered where Dedue was, but I saw he was helping Ingrid. "It went right at you! Was Hubert trying to kill you or something?"

"I'm sure that wasn't the case," Dimitri protested weakly. He was surprisingly pale. Even more surprisingly, he remained on the ground instead of standing. "Are you all right? No bleeding or bruises or-"

"I'm fine, boar." Felix yanked Dimitri up. "Get your lance. We're still in the middle of a battle."

"Right…" Shakily, Dimitri did just that. It almost slipped from his hands, though. "I'm sorry. I-"

"Pay more attention to your surroundings."

"Right…"

"I think we can be forgiving when it comes to friendly fire," Sylvain chided, slinging an arm around Dimitri. Dimitri smiled wanly in return before stiffening at something. "Hmm? What's-whoa, hello!" A fallen bandit surged up, trying to strike Sylvain. But Sylvain easily dodged, and Dimitri… well, he destroyed the bandit's skull with his lance. Felix glared at the sight, while Sylvain just shrugged. "Thanks for the save, but did you break your lance with that?"

"I… don't think I did," Dimitri answered slowly. He frowned, checking his lance over. Felix, unsurprisingly, was still glaring. Except I thought there might be something different… ah, it was probably just me overthinking. "I'm not seeing anything."

"Oh, good, because we three are very out of formation right now."

They were. While part of the front line lagging wasn't detrimental, having three completely out left far too large of a gap. And since Hubert's spell was off, there hadn't been enough cover. Which left… which left Edelgard surrounded, because the left was still behind and Dimitri had been on her right. She did well, cutting down the bandits who tried to attack her, but she missed one and they caught her in the side.

I prepared to stop time, certain that I'd see her die. But that didn't happen. Instead, I felt an echo of pain up my back, followed by Azrael's reassurance. Not just for his injury, but for Edelgard. And he was right. He took another wound on his arm when he broke through the bandits surrounding Edelgard, but he didn't care. He snagged Edelgard to draw her close before whipping the wind around them as an impromptu shield. Like this, his magic more pushed than sliced, but it was enough to drive them just far enough back for Dimitri, Sylvain, and Felix to catch up.

I breathed a sigh of relief, though I nearly fell over when I sensed Azrael's exhaustion, coupled with my own. With the relief and exhaustion, though, came the smell of blood and death. A reminder of just what we were doing. I tried to force back my nausea, since there was still fighting, but it was hard. Even if these were bandits, they were still… and I had…

"I have you!" A strangely familiar, yet foreign, shout jolted me from my thoughts and right back into the fever of battle. I turned to see the bandit boss, the same one that almost killed Edelgard in Remire, charging for Claude, bleeding from wounds. I was reminded of that night and between the memory and my exhaustion, it took me a second before I realized Claude was actually in serious trouble. Namely, he was out of arrows and had no back-up weapon. He did try to creatively use his bow like a club, but that didn't work all that well. The leader splintered it easily and went for a second attack…

That was when I thought to actually react, and I lunged forward, making myself move as fast as I could. I didn't have a sword, so I only had my magic. With my vision blurring, I knew I couldn't just throw the flames as I normally would. So, instead, I waited until I was right on them both before calling fire to my hand and releasing it at the leader's face at point-blank range. Because of the heat, and the close-range, his head turned into a blackened skull quickly. At the least, he didn't scream, so I hoped he had turned unconscious before the fire had cooked his brain. Or whatever it was that killed you when your head was set on fire. But he was dead. He crumpled quickly, the fire trying to slowly crawl and use his clothes as fuel before fizzling out from a lack of energy. I nudged the body, to be sure he was dead, and then looked at my hand. The heat of the flames had burnt the blood that had been staining it, leaving only ash. Ashen Demon, indeed…

With the leader dead, the rest didn't take long to fall and for the battle to end. In the eerie silence of the aftermath, I watched my students gather together. Seeing them hugging one another, helping each other with their injuries… in particular, I saw Ingrid hug Dimitri and Felix tightly, refusing to let go even when Felix tried to squirm away. Sylvain hugging all three of them made Felix just sigh and give up. Of course, not far away, I saw Hilda clinging to Lysithea, refusing to let go even for Marianne to treat the bruise on her back. Hubert was quietly apologizing to Edelgard away from the group, and she was shaking her head at what he said. Ferdinand and Annette organized everyone's first aid supplies together, so that they could all better assist the three healers. Dorothea sang a wordless song, stroking Petra's hair while Petra rested against her. Caspar and Raphael were showing off their bandages, and trying to drag a baffled Dedue into it. Ignatz and Ashe talked quietly together while tending to their bows; Leonie and Claude were arguing while doing the same. To my relief, Linhardt was treating Azrael's injuries, though amusingly, Lorenz was also there, trying to get Azrael to wipe off some of the blood. Next to them, Mercedes wrapped up Bernadetta's hand, smiling as she told some silly story that actually got Bernadetta smiling back.

I watched them all for a moment before walking away, to make sure I was out of sight. That was when I started coughing up blood again, bracing myself against the rock wall to now just fall over.

["It seems three times is the current limit for turning back time."] Sothis appeared in front of me, absently swinging her legs back and forth in the air. Unlike the other times, though, she didn't disappear after only a blink. ["Before you say anything, yes, you can use it four times and possibly more, but best to save that for absolute emergencies. Like you dying."] I wanted to protest, but ended up coughing more. This time, thankfully, no blood. Just overexertion then. ["Think of your students seeing you like this."] Urgh… she had a point there.

"I suppose you're right," I rasped, coughing a little more. I then wiped my mouth and sighed, leaning against the cliff's wall. That was when I realized something. Everything about this place… it was nostalgic. And there was… "Since when has it been called the 'Red Canyon'...?" I wasn't sure how I knew that wasn't the original name. But I did. "This place should be peaceful…" Again, I didn't know how I knew. But I did.

["I wonder why this place feels familiar to you."] Sothis looked around curiously, her eyes focusing on the ruined buildings. ["As far as I know, this is your first time here."]

"Still, there is something familiar about this scenery. Yet also…" Yet also something heartbreakingly different. "Sothis, perhaps your memories…?"

["Hmm… perhaps indeed."] She continued looking around, floating beside me as she tried to see everything. ["I cannot remember anything, but there is a great well of emotion tied to this sense of familiarity. Joy and sorrow, love and pain… and everything in between. I wonder… what took place here?] So did I...

"There you are." Azrael spoke quietly, sensing that I had been too distracted to notice him. I still jumped anyway. "And…" he began, before looking right at Sothis. He blinked a few times. Rubbed his eyes. Blinked a few more. "Well, you're new." He poked Sothis's arm, frowning. "It feels solid, yet looks transparent."

"She's solid for me," I replied, hiding a smile. I had a feeling this would be his reaction if he ever heard or saw Sothis. He was just too used to strange things. "What brings you over? If it's an explanation, it really ought to wait until later."

"No, I figured that. But I felt the burn of your coughs and wanted to make sure it was exertion and not something else." Though I knew he wanted to hug me, he simply touched my cheek since he was covered in blood. He let his magic pulse through and, after a moment, he smiled and nodded. "Seems so. Good. And, before you ask, my own injuries are fine." Good...

["You know… I really did think he'd react differently."] Sothis huffed, unamused. Azrael frowned and looked at her. ["Oh? Can you hear me?"]

"You sound like you're talking from the bottom of a well," Azrael answered, frowning. He stared for a moment and then looked back at me. "She better not try to fuss. I won't listen."

["What a rude child you can be!"]

"Just 'can be'?" Azrael stuck his tongue out, and I shook my head. Of course he'd start teasing her within seconds. Of course. "I suppose I should try… hello, what's that?" Azrael leaned to the side and crouched down a little. It took me a moment to see what he was looking at, but when I did, I smiled. They were very beautiful flowers. A pale purple color with darker lines that helped it look almost like a star. But what I loved most was… well, there were four of them, all in a cluster. "Hey…" Azrael glanced at me, and I caught his thought immediately. It only took me a second's thought to agree. "Awesome!" He skirted around Sothis and knelt down to carefully pick them. "Oh, hey, what had you staring by the way?"

"Staring?" I repeated, not sure what he meant. He 'sent' it to me, and I shook my head, embarrassed that I hadn't thought of that sooner. "Sothis and I both think there's something familiar about here. But we've never been, right?"

"Not that I know of," Azrael confirmed, standing. He passed one of the flowers to me, and held onto the rest. "But maybe you saw this place in one of your nightmares?" That… that could be it, actually. Though I'd never actively recognized a location from them before, this place was certainly unique enough.

"Teach! Azrael!" Claude's voice made us both turn, and we saw him waving at us. "There you two are," he yelled. "Come on! It's time to head back!" Oh, good.

Sharing a little smile at our planned surprise, Azrael and I rejoined the others. Though Claude had said it was time to leave, not everyone was actually ready to go just yet. Some were still being bandaged, while others debated who could safely hike back on their own and who had to be carried. It was kind of amusing, but I made sure to stay out of it all. So did Azrael. We both knew there would be no way to 'win' an argument like this. And, for the most part, my students were content to argue amongst themselves without either of us weighing in. Though, that didn't mean they didn't still have business with us. Or, more specifically, Edelgard had business with Azrael.

"Azrael," Edelgard began softly, heading straight for him as soon as she saw him. He glanced at her curiously, tilting his head to the side. "I wanted to thank you. For helping me. I'm in your debt."

"You owe me nothing," Azrael immediately scoffed, turning away to scout ahead for us. But Edelgard moved to stand in front of him, blocking him. "I'm not putting a price on your life."

"I'm not asking you to do that. I simply owe you. A favor for a favor."

"Look, I might be a former mercenary, and I'm a terrible person, but not every interaction in the world has to be equivalent like that." Azrael tried to step around her, but Edelgard blocked him again. "Were you this stubborn with my sister?"

"I'm still trying to return that favor as well, but I haven't been able to bring it up yet."

"Good luck, because in Byleth's view, you also owe her nothing." Azrael sighed. "You didn't hire me for the job. So, there's no contract and thus, no need to pay. Pretty simple, isn't it?"

"Most would jump at the idea of having the heir of the Empire indebted to them, you know."

"In case it's not obvious, Byleth and I aren't like most people." He rolled his eyes and just picked up Edelgard so that he could keep on walking. Edelgard yelped and flailed a bit before setting in the crook of his elbow. "Neither of us care you're a princess. Byleth saved you without even knowing your name because that's how she is. And I saved you because you're her student."

"Would you have saved me if I wasn't her student?"

"Eh… maybe." He glanced up at her, and shifted her so that he could carry her a little more comfortably. "Unlike my twin, I'm a terrible person at heart, but I do try to do good anyway. So, I probably would've."

"And are you going to keep carrying me?"

"Probably." He grinned and she scowled. "I'll put you down if you drop the whole owing thing."

"That's…!" She grumbled something. I didn't hear it, but Azrael laughed. "That is a completely different issue!"

"Looks like I'm carrying you to the monastery then."

"Could you at least get the blood off first!?"

"Why? It's not like you don't have it on you anyway."

"You're covered! How did you even get healed like this?!"

I hid my small smile, and just watched everyone. Watched them argue. Watched them smile. Watched them lean on each other. Watched them just be alive. They were all alive. Thank goodness...

---

The trip back was quiet. Everyone's exhaustion had caught up to them, as well as the reality of what they had done. A couple had to stop to vomit off the side of the path. I purposely didn't look to see who it was, thinking they might want relative privacy. I simply reminded everyone that they should have water, so that they could rinse their mouths. It was still a relief when we arrived at the monastery.

"Welcome back, Professor!" the Gatekeeper greeted us, smiling warmly and saluting. I smiled back faintly, even as I ushered my students past. "You are the first of the groups to return, but we got a message a couple hours ago that the hostages were successfully rescued."

"That's good to hear," I murmured, feeling the last of my tension melt away at the news. Azrael 'sent' me a question, worried, but I reassured him. He had his part of our 'surprise', and I had mine. I had enough energy for that. "Thank you."

"Always glad to be of assistance! Make sure you all get some rest. You've certainly earned it!"

"We will."

I made sure none of my students fell on their faces upon arrival, and then I headed to the graveyard. It was a little iffy on the stairs, because my legs shook so much, but I managed well enough. It was very easy to find Mom's grave from there. I mostly remembered the path, and there were lots of fresh flowers on it, unlike the other graves. I wondered… if I could give them flowers too. Sure, I didn't know who any of them were, but that didn't mean… ah, but I had a specific purpose and honestly, not a lot of energy left. I had to focus.

"Hey, Mom…" I whispered, kneeling next to her grave. Then I carefully tucked the flower from the canyon among the rest. "This is probably silly, but Dad told me you liked flowers. Said I got my own love from you, actually. And Alois told me that Dad would bring you back flowers when he left on missions. So, Azrael and I thought we might bring you back one too." I wondered how she felt about that. Annoyed? Grateful? I hoped grateful. "He's not here because his part of the surprise is… well, these flowers were in a group of four. So, he's making bookmarks with the other three. One for me, one for him, and one for Dad. And, I don't know, maybe when the flower withers here, you'll be able to pick it up in the afterlife or something. Then all of us will have one." It was, no doubt, a ridiculous notion. But one too tempting for either Azrael or I to ignore. "I love you, Mom." That… seemed like a good place to stop for now. "I'll come by again. Promise." Slowly, I stood up and brushed the dirt and grass off my knee before turning away. And pausing because I saw the three heirs were standing near, awkwardly looking at anything but me. "Is something wrong?"

"N-no, don't mind us," Dimitri blurted. He seemed mortified, for some reason. He definitely couldn't make eye contact. "We just… um…"

"We followed you because we thought you might have forgotten that you have to report to Lady Rhea that we've returned," Edelgard mumbled. She, too, couldn't look me in the eye. "I promise we didn't… um…"

"We didn't mean to intrude, and really, we can just leave and-"

"Report?" I repeated, focusing on that. It took me a moment to remember what they were talking about. Seteth had briefly mentioned it at some point. "Oh, right. Dad normally handled things like that when we were mercenaries." So, I hadn't even thought about it. "I'm sorry to have worried you."

"It's not a problem, Teach," Claude reassured. Still, he held himself weird. Hesitant, actually. I'd never seen him like that. "We really didn't mean to eavesdrop, though. I know that sounds rich coming from me of all people, but-"

"Relax. I really don't mind." I looked back at the grave, smiling faintly. "Though, it's probably a little strange to talk to a grave like that. I'd like to think she heard me, though." Shaking my head, I began to leave. "You three can linger if you want. But if I have to make a report, I'd better do that before I forget again."

"Oh, no, we'll at least walk to the reception room with you!" All three of them fell in step with me, with Edelgard and Dimitri on either side of me. "So… uh…"

"Did you three happen to notice all the ruins in Zanado?" Edelgard asked, firmly changing the subject. I wasn't sure why she chose that one, though. "Each was more curious than the last, not the least because they didn't match the architecture style of any era within the Empire. Or Fodlan, for that matter."

"I noticed the same," Dimitri confirmed, nodding. Edelgard actually beamed at him, impressed for some reason. Claude, meanwhile, fell quiet, looking over my clothes for some reason or another. "There were a couple that I thought resembled some of the older buildings in the Kingdom, but upon a closer look, they were completely different."

"I think they must've belonged to a civilization that rose and fell in the distant past, long before the Empire rose."

"Perhaps even before Nemesis and the Elites as well." Dimitri crossed his arms, warming to the topic. "I wonder who they were."

"Maybe they weren't even human. Wouldn't that be interesting?" Edelgard looked at Claude, who was surprisingly thoughtful now. "If you're this silent, Claude, I fear you might be scheming."

"Well, I'm thinking of a few things," Claude protested with a shrug. It was surprising he didn't try to play up the 'accusation'. "I'll go with the second thing first, though. It's the same thing I noticed when we first entered and it's just bothering me. Why is it called the Red Canyon? Nothing there was red. I looked all over. But despite how far into the canyon we went, the only 'red' I found was because of the recent battle."

"Perhaps it's due to flowers then?" Edelgard suggested. She frowned, for some reason. "Or perhaps the stone there was originally red but faded with time?"

"Could be, but still seems strange. Plus, it's a sacred area for the Church. You need permission from the Archbishop herself to travel there." Claude focused on me then, just as we left the graveyard entirely. "What do you think, Teach?"

"Me?" I replied, startled. I struggled to think of an answer, but despite the fact that there had to be many logical answers, like the flowers or stone that Edelgard suggested, my mind… could only focus on one. "Well, perhaps it once ran red from a massacre?" If Azrael was right and I had seen that place in one of my dreams, then something like that… had to have happened. Some sort of battle, some sort of slaughter… perhaps of the people who once lived in those ruins? Perhaps that was how they 'fell'? "In that case, then it could be sacred simply because it's a grave." All three of them were staring at me. "Ah, I apologize. I'm afraid the battle made me a little morbid."

"Maybe, but you were transfixed by something in the canyon," Claude pointed out. I tensed, wondering how long he had been watching before calling out. "It was like you saw something, or felt something."

"I think you're overthinking a little, Claude." Best to simply rely on how no one could read me for now. How else was I supposed to get through this conversation? They already knew I had weird magic, and they already knew how easily I could kill. I didn't want to bring up the gremlin in my heart that actively talked to me. Even if Sothis's irritation at the nickname was amusing. "They were interesting, though."

"Okay, so maybe I'm wrong about the transfixation. But maybe the staring I confused it for was because of whatever wounds you're hiding?" He actually scowled; both Dimitri and Edelgard jumped a little before frowning at me. Me? I tried to figure out just what he was talking about. I normally healed up too quickly for anyone to notice. "I only just realized it, but you never got treated before we left. The blood and cuts on your clothes reminded me."

"Azrael healed me." Well, that was sort of a lie. My healing rate handled everything. But Azrael had checked me over. "We're used to such things." Why would he bring it up at all? And why were the other two frowning still? I felt like I was missing something, but I wasn't sure what. The only ones who had ever asked about my injuries in the past were my family. Strangers had never brought it up before...

"Miss Byleth!" And here came Cyril with the convenient save. Thank goodness, since I really needed it. "Welcome back," he greeted, jogging right up to me. Like the one I had seen before, it shook a little. "Lady Rhea is waiting for your report."

"I'm heading there now," I reassured, before looking at the three heirs. All three of them were frowning at me. What did I do? "I'll talk to you later. Cyril, you mind leading me?"

"I'm on it!"

Cyril made me stop along the way to at least change into clean clothes. Something about how I was treading blood flakes and dirt over the floor. He also gave me a wet washcloth to wipe my face with. Only when I was presentable did he actually lead me to where Rhea was waiting, in the same room where I had first met her. Afterwards, he left and I relayed everything to Rhea. Minus, of course, the less believable parts like turning back time.

"I see, so you have safely disposed of the bandits," Rhea murmured, smiling serenely. I personally wasn't sure I'd call it 'safely', but the bandits were dead, so I nodded. "I pray that their souls find salvation. But why did they target the students in the first place?"

"If you're hoping they let something slip, they didn't," I replied, feeling guilty over stupidly killing the bandit leader so quickly. I should've left him alive for interrogation… "I'm sorry."

"No, I just had hoped they had been… less than loyal to whatever compatriots they had." She sighed, resting a hand on her cheek. "We must investigate further. Until we know more, I ask that you support the students and relieve them of unnecessary worry."

"I'll do all that I can." What else could I say to that? And what would be 'unnecessary' in this scenario anyway?

"Good, I have high expectations for you." That was just… great… "By the way, how was your time in Zanado?" Huh? That… that was a subject change.

"It was… a battle." How was I supposed to answer? It hadn't been some scenic trip or anything. We went there to kill people, and so, my 'time in Zanado' was spent sick and panicking. But I knew better than to say all of that. "The ruins were interesting, I suppose. My students were entranced."

"I see." She seemed almost disappointed by my answer. But seriously, what else was I supposed to say? "Do you know why it's sacred to the Church?" I didn't, so I shook my head. And, for once, I didn't actually feel that bad about it, since none of my students seemed to know either and they had grown up with the church's teachings. "Legend has it that in ancient times, the Goddess alighted upon the world at that very canyon." Oh, so that was why? That might also explain the buildings, then. They might have been the 'original' monastery. "Of course, for a goddess from the heavens, Zanado could have only been a temporary haven."

"Temporary?"

"Yes, for do not humans eventually fear and hurt those who are different?" Bitter anger threaded into her words briefly. But there was no sign of it on her expression. I might've thought I'd imagined it, except Sothis confirmed my suspicion. "Still, in ancient times, she walked among her children, gracing the world with her presence and offering salvation to the people here. Even from her kingdom above, she watches over Fodlan. The mother of all life, the arbiter of every soul."

"I see." When did this turn into a religion lesson? Not that this wasn't fascinating, but I just… wasn't interested. "How did Seiros fit into this, then?"

"She received a revelation from the Goddess, a gift when all hope was lost." That totally wasn't convenient. No, not at all… oh, hell, I sounded like Azrael. I made sure to bite my tongue to make sure I didn't say anything. "Do you truly not-?"

"Ah, Lady Rhea?" Seteth walked in, sparing me more of the lecture. "My apologies, but there are things we need to discuss about Alois's investigation," he explained. He glanced at me before focusing on Rhea. "I'm afraid it can't wait."

"As you wish," Rhea replied, inclining her head slightly. She smiled at me then. "Until we meet again, Byleth."

I seized the easy escape, and quickly left the room. I made sure to close the doors behind me, both to give them privacy and to let me get out of sight sooner. Then, with a sigh, I started heading down the stairs. I was more than ready to just rest. And I needed my perfume. I could smell the blood and rot. The death… even if they were bandits, I… I...

["A goddess… She keeps getting mentioned, but I have no memory of her at all."] Sothis's musing cut through the spiral of thoughts, and I slowed my pace a little so that I could better listen. ["Of course, I have no memory at all, really."] She sounded so resigned that I had to bite back a little smile. ["Oh, how bothersome. It's like I know, but I don't know. Still, I wonder if Zanado had been my home once. Perhaps when the goddess walked about? That would explain why I felt some familiarity. But what would that make me, then?"]

The first and obvious answer was, of course, a 'ghost'. But somehow, I had a feeling that wasn't correct. The way she mumbled and grumbled hinted she didn't think so either. However, there was one interesting thing I had noticed during the talk, and perhaps it had a hint to the answer. Rhea's headdress… it resembled the one Sothis wore.

["Oh! You are correct! They do bear a few similarities!"] Sothis 'hrmmed', thinking. I was just grateful I was used to her suddenly commenting on my thoughts as otherwise, I might've missed a step heading down. ["Perhaps I was a priestess of this goddess, then? That doesn't explain why you and I are connected, but perhaps it does play a role in why you see the past."] It could be, except that I saw parts she clearly couldn't have lived through. ["That is true… Well, I suppose it doesn't fully matter. I want to know, and I will one day regain what I have lost, but I am in no rush. I enjoy being with you, after all."] Well, that made two of us, then. ["Ah, we agree? Excellent! Then there truly is no rush. Let us focus on the present for now! And that present includes a nice and relaxing bath for you. I insist you spoil yourself!"]

It was really strange having a mental argument with a gremlin that lived in your heart. Especially when said gremlin actually won the argument. But it was probably one of the less weird parts of my life nowadays, so I just went with it.

---

The rest of my evening and night went about as usual, more or less. Sort of. I asked Manuela about scented oils for my bath, having heard about them once, and was promptly given a small basket filled with some, as well as some 'hair treatment' concoctions she insisted I use. I had no idea what made them different from the soap I usually used, except they smelled nice. And since I could still smell the blood and rot, I would take the nice smell. It went well with my perfumes and honestly, it smelled like I had flowers wrapped around me. Which I didn't mind at all. Especially when I woke up from my typical nightmare and decided to read for a while. At least, until someone knocked on my door.

["Who would be calling on you this late?"] Sothis asked with a yawn. While I'd been reading, she'd been dozing. ["One of the three heirs?"] Perhaps. They seemed the most likely, given the past. However, when I actually opened the door, that guess was proved wrong. Very wrong, actually.

"I'm sorry, Professor…" Hilda mumbled, clutching a blanket around herself. She wore a pink nightgown, and had her hair in braided pigtails for sleeping. "I keep having the worst nightmares, and I remembered Claude mentioning you were often awake at late hours. Can I stay here for a little bit?"

"Of course," I reassured, stepping out of the way to let her in. She smiled in relief, but didn't take a seat at my table. Instead, she just sat on the floor by my bed. "Do you want some tea?"

"Yeah, that sounds good. Do you happen to have a Albinean berry blend?"

"Actually, I might." I went to check and discovered I did. I couldn't remember when I had gotten it, but I was glad to have it. "Yes, I do. I'll make a pot." I thought about offering my sleeping tea, but decided against it. I had a feeling Hilda just didn't want to be alone for a moment. "Do you want to talk about your nightmares?"

"It's mostly just… what ifs with the battle." She shuddered, pulling her blanket even tighter around her. "Like when I… when I fell back? I keep dreaming of Lysithea dying. It was pure chance that you got there in time." Technically, that did happen and it was less chance and me turning back time to erase that event. But that would be complicated to explain. "Then there's other things. Like 'what if' we had charged across the bridge at the beginning of that whole ordeal."

"You dream of that?"

"Yeah, like… oh, like Caspar, Leonie, and Felix charged ahead and the rest of us stupidly followed instead of stopping them." She flinched at the thought, but I had to pause in making the tea. Because that seemed strangely… "Then there's this fireball and whoosh! Down goes the bridge and most everyone on it. And all I can do in the nightmare is stand like an idiot as Claude shoves Lorenz to safety before falling and dying." That did happen, though. In the time that I had erased. That did happen. Why would she see that in her nightmare? "It was awful… the helplessness I felt…"

"I can imagine." More than imagine. I felt it. "But it is thankfully just a nightmare. Everyone made it through."

"Yeah… I'm not the praying sort usually, but I joined Marianne in her nightly prayers tonight. Felt appropriate." She sighed about something. "Hey, Professor?"

"Hmm?"

"This is going to sound stupid, I know, but can I take some flying lessons? I can't get the mental image of Claude falling out of my head, even while awake." Her voice wavered, but when I glanced back, I saw only earnest eyes. "I wonder if it might help."

"Of course. I'll get that arranged." But why would she dream of it at all? Was… was this a cost of turning back time? Their souls remembered anyway? I… I didn't like that…

I had just finished the tea when someone else knocked on the door. I set the pot on the table and opened it to discover Dorothea. She wore a fancier nightgown than Hilda, surprisingly enough, and she had a shawl around her instead of a blanket. But, otherwise, it seemed just the same as when Hilda appeared, complete with a sheepish smile.

"I'm sorry, Profesor, but do you mind?" Dorothea asked softly. I simply stepped out of the way, closed the door behind her, and fetched another teacup. "Oh, Hilda!" Meanwhile, Dorothea sat down next to Hilda, and Hilda moved to drape her blanket around them both. "You have nightmares too?" She winced in sympathy when Hilda nodded. I set about pouring the tea for us. "I keep dreaming about that rock trap that Azrael set off. But with us there instead, and Ferdie dying because he saved me and…" She shuddered and burrowed into Hilda's side. Hilda made a sympathetic noise. "Oh, I don't even want to think about it anymore."

"I don't blame you," Hilda murmured. After a moment, she managed a strained smile. "So, lets gossip about something else? I really like your accessories, by the way. Would you mind if I make you some?"

"I'd adore that. You make jewelry?"

"Just a little."

The two purposely talked of lighter things such as accessories and makeup. I gave them some tea and decided to simply curl up with my book again, though at the table so that I could drink some tea myself. However, the two dragged me into the conversation by asking about perfumes and Hilda telling Dorothea that I had an entire collection. While we talked, though, some of my other students drifted in. Ignatz was the third, and he almost ran away when he saw Hilda and Dorothea were already there, but was persuaded to stay. He was definitely more comfortable when Ashe joined us. Mercedes came with Leonie and Lysithea, with a couple of her own tea sets since she had seen Hilda pass, and warned more were coming. She was proven correct when Linhardt stumbled in and curled up in the corner to sleep. Annette and Bernadetta slipped in together, followed soon by Petra. That was… that was around the time I started wondering if all my eaglets, cubs, and fawns were going to show up. And I was soon proven right.

"Yo, Teach, hate to bother, but…" Claude began, with only a token knock before opening the door. Behind him, Lorenz sputtered at the 'rudeness'. "Oh, relax, I'm just going to ask… if… huh." Claude blinked a couple of times, taking in the sight of half my students huddled together in my room. "Well, I suppose this is a case of wise people think alike?" Claude stepped back, nudging Lorenz out of the way, and… and I saw more or less the other half of my students outside, most of the ones who roomed on the second floor. "So… uh… huh. For once, I'm speechless."

Honestly, so was I. Why did all of them come to me? But that… that didn't matter. What mattered was that none of them felt like being alone. All of them were dealing with nightmares, including nightmares of what had been and yet was erased. For many of them, it was also the night after their first battle, when the weight and tiredness truly hit. If company was what they needed to get through it, then company was what they'd get. Sure, there was the conundrum of my room being nowhere near big enough to hold everyone, but I knew a room that was.

"Everyone, gather your things," I ordered, snatching a few of my blankets and pillows for emphasis. After a moment of confusion, the group that had been in my room already did the same. "We're moving to the classroom so that we can camp together. Lorenz and Ferdinand, you two are responsible for making sure we have plenty of tea. Claude and Ingrid, see who isn't here already. If anyone is missing, work on tracking them down and asking if they want to join."

It took my students a long second to realize I was serious. But, when they did, they were quick to follow orders. All of them were jostling good-naturedly, bickering over who would carry what, with some deciding to briefly return to their rooms for more things. Edelgard and Hubert were briefly the only ones missing, but Caspar found them quickly and while Hubert seemed convinced we had all hit our heads, Edelgard actually seemed enthused about the idea.

"Professor, do you need help carrying anything?" Dimitri asked when I stepped out of my room finally. I frowned a little when I noticed he had no blanket or pillow, but he pointed at Dedue, who was carrying enough blankets and pillows for five people. And casually taking what Annette had been carrying to make it 'six'. "He stole them from me before I could secure my grip."

"Ah." Well, I had to smile faintly at that. "Actually, if you don't mind, I think I need to inform Seteth about this." Or at least someone. Seteth seemed the most appropriate for this sort of thing. "Can you carry what I've got while I do that? I want to also see if we can get some snacks, just in case."

"Of course." He took my blankets and pillows from me, as well as the book I had been reading. "No teapot?"

"No, I…" I hesitated a moment before deciding to be honest. "It was my mom's. So, I'm worried about it breaking."

"Of course." He smiled in understanding, and I smiled back slightly. "Edelgard, Claude, and I will herd everyone to the classroom."

"Thank you."

It wasn't until I had made it to the reception hall that I remembered that I actually had no idea where Seteth's room was. After a split-second of debating, I decided to simply check his office, since I remembered the 'argument' he and Rhea had about his apparent lack of sleeping. If he wasn't there, then… well, I did know where Rhea's room was. I could just ask her, though it would be a little awkward.

But, hey, I got lucky for once. Seteth's office door was open and he was in his office, working. Curled up in a chair next to him was a sleeping Flayn, who used his leg as her pillow. I supposed that played a reason in why he hadn't moved. The large stack of papers on his desk likely provided another.

"What in the world are you doing up so late?" he asked when he noticed me in the doorway. I tiptoed inside, glancing worriedly at Flayn. "She's a heavy sleeper, once she actually gets to sleep. Just don't yell."

"I won't," I promised. It was an easy promise since… well, I had never really yelled. Another reason I was dubbed the 'Ashen Demon' was because of how relatively quiet I was on the battlefield. It added to my inhumanity. "It's not uncommon for me to be up at the hour, but this night… most of my students are also awake and desperately not wanting to be alone. I'm having everyone camp in the classroom, since my room isn't large enough."

"That so?" Seteth frowned, and I thought he might be mad. But then I noticed the sadness in his eyes. "That should be fine. I ask that you not make too much of a mess."

"I'll make sure we clean up in the morning." Deciding this was probably an appropriate time to bow, I did so. "Thank you."

"Of course. We need to do what we can for them. Bending the rules a little so that they do not break is easily done." Seteth was quick to wince when he said the words. "I ask that you not repeat that, though. Some might take advantage of the words."

"It's okay. I'm not Azrael. I keep most of my thoughts to myself."

"I'm glad one of you does." His long sigh hinted to a lot of suffering. And I wondered just what Azrael had said or done. "Ah, that is another matter entirely. How are you doing?"

"Me?" I was surprised he asked. "This isn't my first battle."

"It is your first as a teacher. Based on what Jeralt said, I understand it is also your first in a leader position." He… had a point there. And the day's battle showed that while I could take command of a small group, a larger one like my cohort? Not so much. "So, how are you?"

"I'm fine." It was an easy lie. "Just a bit tired. And fretting over my students."

"Right…" He frowned, though, like he could tell I was lying. He didn't push, though. "Ah, thank you for taking the time to have tea with Flayn tonight." He smiled down at her, stroking her hair. "She was worried about you all."

"I didn't notice with her saying how worried she was ten times." I really didn't mean to be sarcastic there, but Seteth muffled a laugh. "I best return to my students before they break something."

"The kitchen keeps a cabinet stocked specifically for midnight snacks, if you're interested. It's just to the left as you enter from the dining hall." Oh, that was convenient. I was just going to see if there was anything extra from tonight. "Get some rest. Hopefully, your mission for the next moon won't involve battle." The way he said it hinted he didn't have much hope at all for it. But I knew he would try, at least, and that was enough. "Pleasant sleep to you and yours, Byleth."

"And to you as well."

It didn't take me long at all to find the cabinet he mentioned, and there was even a stack of baskets next to it. So, I took one and filled it up before finally joining my students in the classroom. But I had to stop in the doorway to smile a little when I arrived because of what I saw. Unlike how it had been the previous times we had grouped up, there was no true regard for 'houses'. They were all just mixed up together.

Some were already dozing, like Annette and Lysithea who were curled up next to an open magical theory book. Others were wide awake, and chatting with others who were awake to get some laughs, like Sylvain and Dorothea who alternated between flirting with each other and double-teaming on others like Marianne or Ingrid. Still others were just watching everything quietly, with warm gazes, like Dedue, who had Linhardt sleeping on his leg, or Mercedes, who braided Hilda's hair. What was most surprising to me, truthfully, was seeing Edelgard asleep on Dimitri's shoulder, since I wouldn't have expected it. Dimitri's slightly surprised look hinted he didn't expect it either, but he didn't seem to mind. He even smiled when Claude sighed happily and sprawled out to use Edelgard's leg as his pillow. I thought I saw Hubert twitch from the shadows nearby, as if offended by Claude's action, but Petra soon distracted him with a question, one that Ashe listened in on eagerly.

I watched them all for a while before I let my presence known, and I set the snacks down a safe distance away from the blankets and pillows before joining them. At some point during the night, I ended up being Bernie's pillow, but I didn't mind. It just meant one less blanket for me when I finally nodded off. And, strangely, it was… probably some of the best sleep I'd had in a while. Certainly since I came to the monastery.

Today's battle would sadly be the first of many. Thanks to Sothis, though, they all made it out. I just had to hope… that I could keep doing the same for them. It was all I could do, after all.

---

Linhardt von Hevring

Crest: Cethleann (Minor)

The only child of Count Hevring and a genius with the attention span of a gnat. Easily bored by everything around him, he flits from one interest to the next, doing whatever he wishes. Only things such as Crests and fishing are able to recapture his attention.

His keen intelligence and observation skills make learning spells easy for him, but his dislike of working hard means that he prefers to simply coast when it comes to battle techniques, being a 'jack of all trades' sort of healer compared to Marianne or Mercedes. However, his love of research means he's more likely to learn a wide variety of spells.

Best friends with Caspar since they were six years old, Caspar is one of the few people Linhardt can hold a proper conversation with as he finds Caspar's energy and kindness to be utterly fascinating. That doesn't mean he holds back when criticizing him, though. Just that he's more willing to help him out.

Mercedes von Martritz

Crest: Lamine (Minor)

The oldest of her cohort, whose calm demeanor and gentle kindness hide her complicated and painful past. Because of how she and her mother took refuge in a church, she is very religious and prays daily to the Goddess to both make requests and to thank Her for Her kindness.

Perhaps because of her Imperial lineage, she is talented in magic in general, though she greatly prefers healing magic. However, unlike the other two healers, she does not shy away from battle, as she is determined to never again lose that which is precious to her.

She has a complete and utter love of ghost stories, frequently wishing to summon one to meet and talk. She also has a wide repertoire of stories to tell, which she will eagerly do whenever there is even the slightest of excuses. Mostly because she thinks it's fun to tease people.

Marianne von Edmund

Crest: Beast (Minor)

The adoptive daughter of Margrave Edmund, she is a very quiet and melancholic person. She actively avoids people and, even when in the company of others, finds it difficult to speak. As a result, many think she's actually a ghost.

Though primarily a healer, this is due more to her belief in the Goddess and less out of a genuine desire to heal, likely due to her aversion to people in general. As a result, her studies focus more on the offensive Faith spells, though she also takes the medicinal and healing lessons with full seriousness.

She adores animals, and can often be found tending and talking to them. This extends from the horses in the stables to the wild birds that flit about the monastery. In fact, she appears to be able to actually understand them to a significant degree, though some who witness this think she is just good at guessing.

---

Author: As I did for Byleth, Azrael, and Edelgard, Marianne's crest is named for convenience's sake.

In-game, the battle with the bandits goes smoothly, but I wanted to show off the Divine Pulse mechanic (and also highlight how most of the students are inexperienced in real battle), so that involved some liberties. When you start a new game, Byleth starts with 3 charges of Divine Pulse (or so I read when trying to figure it out), which is why Byleth had a bad reaction after the fourth use.

For the sake of my sanity, I'm not necessarily going to show Byleth giving a birthday bouquet every time one of the students has a birthday. So, if it's not shown, just assume it happened off-screen. Think this is the first time Jeritza has shown up, so I figured I'd have a bit of fun with it. Same thing with Anna.

Rhea's description differs depending on if you saw her C support or not. What's above is what's in her C support, where Jeralt was a very young mercenary and was terribly injured protecting her. If you don't see her C support, then after the events of Chapter 9, when you're meeting her for the usual post-mission debriefing, she'll say that Jeralt was a soldier in the Kingdom army and there's nothing on how he got injured, only that Rhea saved him. If you view the scene from the event gallery, this is actually the version you'll see. (In game, if you have her C support, then that same scene will skip straight to asking why Jeralt left)

And yes, more supports! Though Marianne mentioning Ashe thinking her a ghost comes from their C support. Though the support itself doesn't come up, Linhardt's C support with Flayn mentions she bears a resemblance to the statue of Saint Cethleann.

Cyril's conversation with Byleth is based on his… ugh, I always get chapter numbers mixed up for this game… Chapter 4? The Rite of Rebirth chapter. It's based on that chapter's monastery dialogue. I moved it up since Byleth and Cyril have had more interactions at this point than they did in the game.