A/N: I thought I can end this chapter in 5k words. I was dead wrong like always.
Warning: Graphic description of violence and genocide Read with care.
Beta-ed by CuddleWuddlePug.
Chapter 2
"Oh, such a wonderful banquet, Your Majesty, fitting for the King of the United Kingdom of Faerghus." Baroness Anastasia lightly waves her feathered fan in front of her, just enough to reveal an appreciating smile. "I was a little afraid those Adrestians would laugh at us for not being able to help you prepare a proper ceremony, but I'm glad you and the Archbishop managed to arrange everything perfectly."
"Yes, I completely agreed." Viscount Ivar nods in agreement as he speaks in a quiet voice. "Even the former Alliance nobles are impressed by you, My King. They're speaking about how our offer must still remain enough, even after the war. This display should deter any rebellions for the time being."
Dimitri smiles and says, "I can only make this possible because both you and other Faerghian houses donated your resources to me, despite the state you are in. So please, do not downplay your contribution"
The king's eyes turn to Byleth, who is talking with Claude. A flash of jealousy rumbles in his chest, but he quickly squashes it down by reminding himself what they are going to do very soon. "…If there is anyone that should be given credit for organizing this whole ceremony, it's must be Lady Byleth."
The baroness agrees wholeheartedly. "Oh, indeed! The Archbishop is certainly capable despite her young age. I didn't get the chance to witness her in battles, given that I was holding the line in another region, but I've heard how fierce a warrior she is. It reminds me so much of the good Captain Jeralt. He must be so proud in heaven that his beloved daughter has become the Goddess' Chosen.
"And speaking of the Goddess. I must congratulate you, Sire. The miracle this morning has proven that you are the Second Chosen of the Goddess. That and all the blessings our lands have been receiving these past months."
The nobleman chimes in with awe-filled eyes. "True. Droughted land somehow now produces normal, healthy crops. Empty ponds and lakes filled with water. Wells poisoned by the Imperial armies can now be drunk from without problems. Wild, small animals such as rabbits and deer suddenly became so plentiful in the forests. And all water bodies are now full of fish.
"We were so worried that there would be a famine once the war ended but with the current situation, we've already started rebuilding instead of preparing to fight for our lives again."
"And it is all thanks to you, my King. Because of you, the Goddess has once again graced this world with her blessings." The baroness finishes with her hands clasped together in prayer, "she's also been a fervent devotee of the faith."
Dimitri just smiles politely and nods. If only the two of them knew the one who has actually brought all of this to them—the literal goddess who's standing just half a room away from them—
He sees Claude kissing Byleth's hand and couldn't contain himself anymore. The king excuses himself from the two nobles and walks toward his fiancée.
"Duke Riegan." Dimitri greets, subtly places himself so that he's somewhat between the two people. His hand drops to his side, close enough to Byleth's that he could grab her anytime he wants. "I hope that you are having a good time?"
"Definitely." Claude grins, swirling the wine in his cup with one hand. "All of my friends had survived this war. I got to witness King Dimitri and his beloved teacher unite this continent, and I even have a lead on my personal project…"
Something flashes through his green eyes as Claude gives the pair his usual mischievous smirk. "But most important of all, I'm going to see something wonderful that will change this land. Of course, I'm enjoying myself!"
The duke emphasizes by taking Byleth's hand and taps the ring hidden beneath her long sleeve with his thumb. "A very wonderful thing, indeed."
Byleth only widens her eyes, but that's enough for Dimitri to almost choke. Before the blond-haired man could say anything, the other Lions—the Faerghian ones, to be exact—come over.
"Congratulation, Your Majesty." Ashe greets. He looks somewhat nervous in noble clothes, but Dimitri thinks it suits the young man quite well.
"Hey, Your Majesty, congratulation!" Sylvain exclaims joyously and wraps one arm around the king's shoulder. "You've done it. I'm so proud of you!"
"We all are." Annette proclaims before pointing at Felix who's still his usual cheerful self. "Felix is very happy for you, too."
"Why should I be?" The archduke huffs, but it doesn't hide the blush on his face.
"Because you care!" Annette laughs and pokes at his cheek. "Say it, say that you care. I know you do."
Ingrid gives an exaggerated sigh and bows her head. "Please ignore them, my King. And Sylvain, behave yourself."
"Aww, don't be so harsh on me. This is a celebration, we should all let loose a bit, don't you think?" The margrave pulls Ingrid towards him. His hands settle comfortably around her waist as he grins at her reprimand.
"Once again, Your Majesty, our best wishes for you," Mercedes says sweetly, ignoring that right behind her, Ingrid is pinching her lover's ear.
"The same goes for me as well." Dedue dips his head in a respective gesture. "Please make sure to enjoy tonight. Gustave and I have arranged so that no one will disturb you until tomorrow."
"Thank you, Dedue." Dimitri's eyes sweep through the room to check on the other lions.
Ferdinand and Dorothea are talking to a group of nobles. Yuri is trying to pull Bernadetta out from behind a pillar. Lysithea, Linhardt, Hanneman, and Manuela have formed into a group, discussing something.
The former songstress clings to her lover as she pats his chest, mouth splitting into a large, proud grin. Dimitri can't hear anything, but with the way the white-haired girl's eyes shine with hope as Linhardt squeezes her hands is enough for Dimitri to be glad that his offer has yielded some hope for them.
Caspar is dancing with Petra, though it looks more like one of those tribal dances he saw one of the Duscan women performed before, with hand movements and a lot of hip and shoulders shaking, much to the scandalization of Lorenz and the guests around them. Dimitri thinks it looks fun, though. Leonie certainly thinks the same because she's clapping her hands right next to Lorenz. Oh, there Hapi is, peeking out from a corner with a dish in her hand before making her way to Ashe. She looks pleased, for once.
All of the lions are here, Dimitri concludes, which would mean it is time for him and Byleth to make the announcement.
"Are you ready?" He asks Byleth with just a hint of nervousness. How can he not?
"With you? Always." She emphasizes it by taking his arm and hooking it over her elbow.
Together, the two of them begin to stroll toward the central dais. But Dimitri still steals a glance at his nearest friends.
Claude grins and gives him a thumbs up. The Lions, meanwhile, are either confused, astonished, or elated.
Sylvain exclaims, halfway between joy and doubt. "Wait. Is this what I think this is?"
Ingrid cheers with stars in her eyes. "Please let it be, please." Only at this moment, one can see she and Sylvain are more alike than people think.
"What? What's going on?" Annette and Ashe ask together while Felix just frowns and looks unimpressed.
Mercedes and Dedue, on the other hand, are smiling as the healer gives their teacher a wave and gentle fist pump. Byleth's arm around his tightens just a hair, a tiny smile creeping onto her face.
"I feel the same," Dimitri whispers while they climb the steps of the dais. It is certainly heartening to see the enthusiasm and supports of their friends.
Facing the crowd which has now noticed that their new king wishes to say something, Dimitri looks at Byleth, waiting for her confirmation one last time.
With her nod, he looks down upon the people in the hall and says, "Honorable guests. We thank you for your presence on this memorable day. My journey as the king of this newly united land has only begun and we all know that it would not be an easy one. That is why I would like to present to you the most important announcement of tonight."
This earns several murmurs from the audience. The guests who don't associate closely with the king clearly are curious and somewhat nervous. But the ones who know him—his comrades during the war and the members of the Church—are all overjoyed with great anticipation.
Taking a deep breath, Dimitri begins, "I shall not have to go through my trial alone. I have found the one who will walk along my side, the one who will be my pillar in both body and spirit, the one who has become my shadow during the darkest time…"
He lifts his hand palm-up between himself and Byleth, which she takes with a strong, but warm grip. She continues, in sync with him as always. "We would like to announce that I, Byleth Eisner, Archbishop of the Church of Seiros, have given my hand in marriage to King Dimitri Alexandre Blaiddyd, Sovereign of the United Kingdom of Faerghus."
An uproar immediately overtakes the entire hall. Gasps of surprise, cheers of joy mixed with outrageous cries from the very few, are shut down immediately by others.
The murmurs continue before a voice shouts loudly, "All hail King Dimitri and Queen Byleth!"
All eyes turn to where the lions are standing and see Felix, who's now in front of the group. Everyone is stunned, but the archduke just ignores them. His face is full of confidence with a smirk. "All hail the King and Queen!" He repeats.
"Long live our King and Queen!" The next voices are Dedue and Sylvain, both with a smile on their faces. Their other classmates across the room soon join in.
And so, it doesn't take long for the entire hall to fill with cheers and well-wishes.
"Long live the Goddess's Chosens!"
"Long live the King! Long live the Archbishop!"
"May our kingdom last forevermore!"
"May the Goddess watch over you!"
"May all the happiness in this world come to your marriage!"
The energy from the crowd is almost too much for him. Dimitri almost chokes, the teaching that a king must keep his composure holds him back from sobbing at the support they're receiving.
"Dimitri," Byleth's gentle voice comforts next to him, just like the warmth of her body pressing lightly against his side. "How are you feeling."
"A bit overwhelmed, but good." He pauses before asking, "May I continue the next part for you?" This part is practically a ceremony in itself which he must perform correctly.
Byleth gives him an affirmative nod. "Certainly."
The newly-crowned king holds up his hand and waits for the noises to die down. Then, he announces, "Our wedding shall follow the Faerghus's national customs, and thus, it will require a period of trials for us to prove ourselves worthy to each other.
"According to our traditions, we would need the guidance of an elder who holds great wisdom of our ways. For that, Sir Gustave…" Dimitri looks at the knight. "Will you become our guide and judge, teach us the lessons our ancestors have passed down through generation?"
Gustave rests a fist on his heart as he looks straight at his king. He swears, "It would be my greatest honor to become your guide. I swear on my family name and the pride of my fore-bearers, I shall perform my duty with utmost devotion and shall not let my personal bonds cloud my judgment."
Nodding in satisfaction, Dimitri speaks next, "The challenges await us will not be easy. That's why, it is a requirement for us to rely on the aids of our closest companions and comrades. Because of that, my Blue Lions…"
He turns to his friends, who are all but hold their breaths for what comes next, and smiles, "Will you all become our groomsmen and bridesmaids? To aid us on our journey and to help us build the foundation of our happiness? And finally, to ensure our devotion to each other."
Dimitri tries not to wince when he says the last part; because, as any man who is in love would agree, it's the worst part of their marriage trials.
"Yes! Yes!" Sylvain is the first to answer with ecstatic cheer, "Finally, I've waited for years for this moment! Yes!"
"I can't believe it! How wonderful!" Annette jumps up and down, shaking Felix's arm in greet excitement. "I promise I'll make sure that the Professor will never be alone with any man, including you, Your Majesty!"
The other Faerghian Lions agree in droves. Which only irritates their king even more.
Please don't…
Dimitri bites back his remark and put a smile in its place instead. His country's culture does not put much importance on one's virginity, only what that person can do for their families and others. However, in order to ensure faithfulness and guarantee at least the legitimacy of their firstborn, once a marriage trial has started, it is ordained that both the groom and bride will never be alone for the entire time duration of the courtship, which typically lasts a year.
This means that once he and Byleth have arrived at Fhirdiad, they will both be chaperoned by at least one same-sex companions at all times until the wedding. This also means Dimitri will have to endure living so close to Byleth and yet unable to touch her or spend any time alone.
Of course, it is normal for the groomsmen and bridesmaids to take pity on the couple and arrange for some secret meetings, and Dimitri does count on at least Sylvain to help him with that. But the problem is his other non-Faerghian comrades who could be overzealous to uphold the rules. He's very much not wanting that if they start getting into this too much.
Just as he's thinking, Dimitri notices Ingrid whispering something to Caspar, Ferdinand, Petra, and Leonie. Those four, who previously looked somewhat confused, are nodding as understanding dawn on them.
Oh no.
"My, what an interesting custom!" Ferdinand exclaims as per his personality. "I, Ferdinand Von Aegir, swear to you, Your Majesty, that I shall preserve your loyalty to Lady Byleth with my life."
"Byleth! Don't worry! I'll guard you with my life in Jeralt's place!" Leonie pumps her fist excitedly.
"Do it for my and Petra's part, too, Ferdinand." Caspar grins. "Sorry, Dimitri, we still have to go to Brigid but we'll make sure to come back for your wedding!"
Dimitri nods, feeling somewhat guilty that he's actually glad that two of his friends will soon depart. But that feeling is quickly squashed down when the rest of the Lions proclaiming their resolve to keep the two of them apart and proper.
"It's okay, my love." Byleth suddenly whispers. She glances at him almost teasingly, though he knows that most people wouldn't be able to tell. Her fingers caressing his with feathering touches. "I will make sure to visit you. I know where your room in the castle is, and I can climb very well."
He almost chokes on his spit at her declaration but his hand still automatically grasps hers and squeezes.
"I… also want that very much," Dimitri whispers as the two descend the short stairs to be swarmed by their loved ones.
He thinks that he does not dislike this milestone as much as he thought.
xxXxx
"Your Majesty, I know the best tailor in the Empire, I could introduce… I could commission a proper wedding gown for our future queen in your stead." Baron Von Gossler offers. The 5th offer today, in fact.
"I appreciate the sentiment, Lord Gossler, however, I had given the project to Countess Varley and a group of our best artisans of the Kingdom. It will be proof that the cultures and aesthetics of both countries can be united." The king answers with a firm voice.
"Then I could help the Count—"
"Your Majesty, pardon my interruption." Dedue knocks from behind the office door. "But Dame Henrietta of house Bleichroder requests an audience with you concerning the wedding banquet."
Dimitri sucks in a deep breath while Gustave looks at him sympathetically.
xxXxx
"…So what do you think, girls? How good would His Majesty be in his bedroom?" The noble ladies giggle at the question. Their voices fill up the entire tea garden.
Dimitri tightens his jaw. God—Byleth help him, but he wishes he didn't hear that. But he needs to pass through this route to get to his destination.
"He must be very passionate, obviously, and insatiable." One lady says. "He must have been devouring dry the Archbishop every night. Making her pass out in just one go!"
"No, no, no. Did you not see how tender he look at her?" Another retorts. "He must be a very gentle and attentive lover. I bet he can spend hours just to please her."
"What about Lady Byleth? What do you think?"
Stop, don't drag my love into this. Dimitri wants to say but stops himself lest he makes it worse.
"The Archbishop must be very experienced. She was a mercenary, after all, and they must know a lot."
"Oh, definitely!"
Obscene laughter now filled the garden, and Dimitri cannot take it anymore. That's it! This is enough. He will not stand here and let people talk about his and Byleth's private life like this—
Dedue tries to drag him back, but it's the third hand on his shoulder that stops Dimitri from stomping into the place. Turning around, he realizes somehow, Sylvain has managed to sneak up to them undetected.
"Let me handle this." The redhead grins. He then strolls into the garden and out of the blond's view.
Standing there, the king listens carefully as Sylvain begins…
xxXxx
"Sylvain, come back here and let me kill you, you dastard!" Dimitri shouts, hands ready with his spear as he runs at full speed.
"Why?!" His horrible friend shouts back from his spot on the other side of the garden. "I did make them stop talking about your 'skills', didn't I?"
"You told them both of us are virgins and all they're talking about is how to teach me and Byleth how to perform our 'duty'." Dimitri changes his direction as he observes which way Sylvain plans to run to. "Do you have any ideas how many nobles have come to advise me these past three days? One of them even attempted to teach me in front of Byleth!"
"Wow, didn't expect that. But I was just trying to help." Sylvain chuckles, but stops immediately when his friend growls at him.
"And why did you have to tell them that she and I were in love back in our academy days?" Dimitri throws the lance which impales itself into the wall and blocks Sylvain's way. "Rumors that I seduced my teacher!"
"Well, didn't you? Don't lie, even a blind man could see how much you two loved each other. You passed up so many chances I gave you that I thought you have trouble performing or something."
"Y-you!" The blond lunges.
The redhead attempts to dodge but Dimitri is faster, and soon, the former finds himself being lifted up by the neck and pressed against the wall. "Easy there. Argh! I still need to live. 'ave a date with Ingrid t-tonight." He chokes.
"My knight will understand that I need to eliminate the fiend that slandered her future queen. How dare you insinuate that Byleth and I would break our professionalism to indulge in our baser needs?"
"Exaggerate much? And don't pretend to be so holy—my room was next to yours, I hear you every night, moaning out her name and how beautiful she is. I thought you would need the real thing rather than your hand."
"S-shut up an—"
"Dimitri, what are you doing? Let him down." Byleth suddenly appears and orders from another gate of the garden. The priests and nuns behind her gawk with opened mouths.
The surprise causes Dimitri to drop Sylvain and instead, stutters out an explanation, "Beloved, it—this isn't what you think it is! He—Sylvain, get back here, you fiend!"
The margrave, taking of the opening, has already run away. He jumps over the fence as the king screams after him while the archbishop looks on in confusion.
xxXxx
The King of Fódlan exhales again as he forces himself to listen to the elder man in front of him.
"…So, you see, Your Majesty, it is prudence that you must know how to spread out your stamina to ensure that your bride will not be left disappointed." Count Aleks, one of the nobles who had protected and ensured Dimitri's army to have a steady supply of both rations and weapons throughout the war—had decided that it is his duty to give the young king advice on how to better his "skills", so to speak.
"Lord Aleks…"
"Women can enjoy reaching their climax more than once a night so if you cannot work it up anymore, you can use your tongue or hands to—"
"Please, Lord Aleks," Dimitri cuts in, "My wedding won't happen for another year, and we don't even know if I could pass all the trials yet for that to happen!"
"Nonsense! How could you have so little confidence in yourself? You are the person who united this continent with Lady Byleth. Have more faith in yourself." The count waves his hand in a dismissive gesture. "I believe in you, Your Majesty, what you need is just more experience then… Oh."
The elderly man thinks for a bit before nodding sagely. "I see. How inconsiderate of me. You are still very much inexperienced in this kind of matter, and here I am, overwhelming you with all of these knowledge. My most sincere apologies, my King." He bows.
"No, do not blame yourself, Aleks. While I certainly have some… ahem, reservation about this, it is the thought that counts, so I thank you."
Aleks immediately takes up the chance. "Well, that settled then. I shall not prolong this speech any longer but I will make sure to send you all of my books. They are my fruits from my sweat and blood of more than 40 years of research and experiment. They surely will not only improve your abilities but also boost them tremendously, as my lady wife can attest to."
Dimitri manages not to choke and thankfully, his advisors come in just in time to rescue their king.
Later that day, Lorenz himself comes to offer him even more advice on how to properly treat a maiden such as Byleth…
xxXxx
"Your Majesty, please—"
"Bandits are attacking the villages in Myrddin, shall I go there and clean them up?" Felix inquires while holding out a report.
Dimitri shakes his head, holding out another paper, feet never faltering in his stride. "No need. Lorenz will leave tomorrow, and I've sent Leonie with him, it should be enough for this mission. Please focus on the logistic of sending rations to Itha first, there are sights of demonic beasts."
Felix skims over the page before nodding. "I'll need Annette and Hapi with me. These say there are remnants of the Empire around there. Probably want to build up their miserable leftover force."
"Please hear me ou—"
"Permission granted." The king accepts, then turns to Ferdinand, "I will provide the funds for your schools, Ferdinand, but please give me a report of what curriculums you will provide in those places first. I'm afraid right now, we need to focus more on physical skills for the time being."
"It is understandable, Sire. And I was thinking the same," Ferdinand laughs. "Yuri's plan for medical facilities has already begun, I believe we can send the first batch of healers right after the first building is finished." He quickly procures his report to Dedue, who swiftly arranges it into the tall stack of documents in his arms as they all stride forward.
Too many problems to solve in the aftermath of the war that Dimitri has to discuss business even while he's walking from one place to another. Everyday, he meets with his friends and Byleth to speak only about rebuilding efforts, such as rehoming and compensation for those who were displaced, feeding hungry orphans, distributing seeds and cattle for farmers, rebuilding facilities, opening schools to educate and fill up all the empty positions and jobs across the continent, and more.
The Blessings from "The Goddess" certainly has mitigated a large part of the disaster that could befall the common folk, but there is still so much to be done.
"Please wait—"
Dimitri exhales. If only certain nobles spend their time on their job instead of trying to gain his favor.
"Yes, Lord Dudley, is there something else?" The king gives a smile that can barely be called such. "I thought we've already discussed everything we needed in the office?"
The noble in front of him gives Dimitri nothing but an unpleasant feeling. This is only amplified when the young monarch reminds himself that this man's name is on his list. A very long list of officers and nobles that will very soon be dealt with for the sake of his people and kingdom.
"Please, Your Majesty, I know I've repeated this so many times, but please allow me to arrange a gala to honor your name." The lord pants and sweats furiously as he speaks. "I didn't quite manage to convey my visions to you, but I can swear on my family name that this celebration will write your name into history books.
"I can gather all the best entertainers, poets, bards, and songstress' to immortalize your name for all eternity. I will commission many famous sculptors to create the most glorious monuments that you can place across our vast kingdom. The cost is not a problem, many of my acquaintances and fellow nobles will handle it for you."
"No offense, Lord Dudley, but that is extremely irresponsible as a noble." Ferdinand frowns, obviously displeased with the suggestion. "Our people have almost endured a famine and only managed to survive because of the Grace of the Goddess. We are also barely able to clothe and build back their houses for them but here you are, planning to celebrate such a wasteful event that will surely deplete the offer further. That is not what a nobleman should do, or even consider."
"Not to mention," Felix sneers, his disgust is palpable as he glances at the fat man. "Where did you and your 'friends' find the funds for this? I'm very sure your land was burned to half a crisp, and you 'donated' most of your money to Edelgard in exchange for your life and estate.
"But disregard that, where was your gold when our army was fighting the Empire while half-starved and under-equipped? Where were you when the King called for aid?"
"I-it was all taken by that evil Emperor." The minor noble fumbles over his words. "I swear on my family name, had I still got just a fraction of my wealth, I would have come to help His Majesty. That is why I am here now, to p-pay—no, to prove my loyalty to the Throne now that I finally have the means!"
He turns back to Dimitri, smiling as pleasantly as he can, but it only reminds the king of a frog. "What I couldn't do for you on the battlefield, Sire, I can compensate by assisting you in diplomacy. I have had many years maneuvering myself against my many political opponents."
You mean bribing and embellishing tax while your people live in poverty?
Dimitri thinks dryly as he listens to the meaningless rambling. But his boredom and annoyance immediately morph into something else once the next words left the nobleman's mouth.
"…In fact, I know many talented men that can help your future wife. With just the right words, her mercenary background will be erased and changed into anything you like. Yes, I know! We can make it so that she is a long lost daughter of a dead, but distinctive, noble house whom Captain Jeralt adopted as his own! I can make up new parents for her, complete with a full educated background and the best breeding history. That way she will no longer be a lowly commoner, but someone who would be worthy of giving birth —"
A hand around his neck cuts off his voice immediately. Dudley soon finds himself being dragged up with his short legs dangling in the air while his mind freezes under the icy cold gaze of a monster.
"How dare you insult my future wife?" The king growls as his fingers tighten around the thick throat. "How dare you insinuate that she is unworthy, you ungrateful filth, after all that she has done for you?"
Behind him, both Felix and Ferdinand, who were ready to confront (and attack) Dudley, frozen in their places for a moment at their friend's sudden reaction. They soon snap out of it with Felix attempting to pull Dimitri back while Ferdinand struggled with removing the king's hand.
"Stop it, Boar!" Felix grunts as the much taller man barely budged at his effort. "Don't just suddenly decide to kill someone like that."
Ferdinand pleads, as he finds himself in the same predicament as Felix. "Please release him, Sire. This fool does not deserve your attention. Please let us deal with his kind from now on."
"Have you two not heard what this pig said about Byleth?" Dimitri just grinds his teeth and squeezes harder. "First, he wants to celebrate while our people are still cold and homeless on the streets. Then he insults Byleth's family, he dared to suggest that Captain Jeralt and Lady Sitri didn't deserve, or were worthy enough to be her parents. He dares to imply that she is only there to be a royal breeding mare. For all of this, he deserves death."
The "pig" in question is now gasping for breaths. His eyes bulging out as his face turns into an ugly purple. His feeble pleads are so pathetic, even the ghosts sneers at the fact that Dimitri is still showing mercy by not killing him right away.
"Your Majesty," Dedue interferes, his hands helping Ferdinand to release Dudley from the steel grip. "Please leave this matter to Duke Aegir, you still have a meeting with Lady Byleth."
The name of his beloved quickly clears Dimitri's mind and calms down his anger. He loosens his hold somewhat, and when Felix sees that, the duke adds. "Byleth told me that she wants to show you her newest project to help the farmers. Don't go kill this useless trash and ruin her mood. We can handle this for you."
"We should avoid staining this place with more blood, at least for the time being, Dimitri." The way Ferdinand disregards his formality to call him his name finally persuades Dimitri to let go.
He drops Dudley unceremonially to the ground. "You appeared just in time, Lord Dudley. And thank you for bringing to me the first proof of evidence. All that money had to come from somewhere."
The king then turns to Duke Aegir, "No need to search for the first thread anymore. I leave this garbage for you, Ferdinand. Make him talk, and have Yuri track down all of his connections. We will start our cleaning right after I returned to the Capital."
Ferdinand nods with a satisfying smile while Felix calls for guards, "Certainly, my friend. Just leave it to me. I shall notify you once I've also tracked down his connection to the imperial nobles."
"I look forward to hearing your good news." Dimitri nods in satisfaction. At least this terrible encounter will lead to something good. He must discuss this with Byleth right away, but maybe he should not mention Dudley's insults toward her family.
It is only right that he protects her.
xxXxx
"Finally, it's over," Dimitri mumbles as he leaves his office with Gustave and Dedue following behind. He has spent the last three days finishing up all the documents that were left for rebuilding efforts.
Three days of working non-stop. He actually had two weeks since his coronation to conclude his current work, but the past three days were the worst.
Three days of not being able to hold or kiss Byleth because all they could talk about was business. All the nights before it, he's spent wrapping his body around Byleth, holding her closer to listen to all the little secrets she has to tell him. But then, he became so busy and overwhelmed by the sheer workload that for once, he could actually ignore the phantoms that follow him for a whole day without Byleth's help.
Wanting to see Byleth sooner, Dimitri then quickly arrives at her office. Much to his surprise, Dorothea is there, talking to his fiancée at the divan.
"Have I come at a bad time?" Dimitri inquires and feels relieved when both women shake their heads.
"Oh, not at all, I was just giving some presents to the Professor." The songstress laughs. "After all, it'll be a few months before I can go to Fhirdiad to be with you all, so I might as well make sure that she's well prepared."
"For what?"
"You will know soon." His former classmate winks with a mischievous smirk and leaves quickly before he could ask. Dedue and Gustave, as attentive as always, close the door after the future duchess to leave their king and his future wife alone in the room.
When he turns his attention back to Byleth, she is trying to wrap a book back into its wrapping. Curious as he is, Dimitri still lets go in favor of kneeling in front of her and takes her hands into his.
"I've missed you," says the king as the warmth in his beloved's skin seeps into his cold hands. Already, he can feel his headache go away. "I am sorry I couldn't spend more time with you."
"Don't be. And I've missed you, too. Deeply." She emphasizes by a hand cupping his face, bringing it closer to hers.
The blond's face heats up at the bold display of affection, yet cannot help but feel giddy for it. Feeling confident, Dimitri asks with no hesitation, "My love, I would like to see you tonight."
Just like that, Byleth's face blossoms with a bright smile as she nods. "I was planning to ask you the same." She teasingly rubs her nose against his.
The first time she tried it, which he could clearly remember to be the fourth night after their proposal, Dimitri has almost died from a heart attack from the sheer surprise and happiness. Now? Now, while he's still somewhat shy, Dimitri has gotten used to it enough to prepare his own attack: a kiss to the corner of her mouth that will make Bylet—
"Ahem."
Startled by the sudden voice, Dimitri turns around to see Seteth standing there in the doorway. The man stares at them with a raised eyebrow, with both of his retainers looking apologetic to their king.
"Something the matter, Seteth?" Queries Byleth, ever calm and composed as she always is.
"It's just some reports concerning the accommodations for the orphans, Your Grace. Though I thought you would like to check on them. I could push it for later if you wish?"
"No, you don't have to." Dimitri quickly stands up. "Please, come in, we just… finished deciding some meeting time for later," he finished lamely.
Seteth just nods so the blond decides that it's better for him to leave, lest his beloved receive a lecture from her granduncle about proper conduct.
But as he passes by the older man, Seteth whispers, "Please make sure to leave enough time for her to get some sleep after your 'meeting'. You both still have a long trip tomorrow."
Dimitri almost trips right then and there.
xxXxx
"Ahh, I really need this." The golden-haired man sighs as he presses another kiss against his beloved's temple. His arms circle around her body into a tight embrace as his body and cloak shield her away from the chilly spring air.
"If you kiss that spot any longer, it'll be bald." Byleth jests, but not unkind. Never with him. She curls up in his lap, fingers dig gently into the cloth on his chest. If she is a cat, she would be purring and flicking her tail.
How adorable.
Dimitri rubs his cheek against the top of her head, taking in the fresh, sweet smell of flowers and milk. Byleth reciprocates by turning to wrap her arms around his neck and gives him a lingering kiss on the corner of his mouth.
"I really need this, too. I've missed you every moment you're not with me. I wish I could talk freely with you like this," She hums into the crook of his neck as he gently rocks her.
"And I you. Even though we meet and work together each day, I keep wishing that we could ask more privacy during the day without people raising eyebrows at us."
"It'll change once we're married, Dima. We will have plenty of time for each other afterward, people will actually expect us to." The little smirk and the sweet nickname makes him tremble in excitement.
"It would still be at least a year away. I just want to be able to show my affection to you during the days right away." He confesses, almost borderline whining while he presses his nose against the spot behind her ear.
"How spoiled." She murmurs teasingly before offering, "Then, how about I compensate for you? What do you wish for me to do?"
The sudden offer stuns Dimitri into a moment of silence before he stammers, "A-anything?"
"Anything."
"Then, I wish to hear more stories about you, about your childhood, and your family."
His answer seems to surprise Byleth for she widens her eyes in stunned silence. Eventually, she says, "You sure? As I said before, the stories about my past aren't very interesting."
"It's yours, that's enough to make me happy. I simply want to know every about the one I love, all the big and small things."
Byleth's lips press together into a single line. Her brows lightly furrow until a long exhale escapes from her. His goddess nuzzles into his chest, murmuring, "I'm sorry. I lied, I have a story to tell you."
She glances up at him, "Seteth told me that I must tell you this. He told me that it is prudent for a marriage to be built on honesty, and he is right. But I keep prolonging it… This matter, I don't want to make you sad or anymore stressed."
The tone she is speaking… it is the same as that night when she revealed her most precious secret and regret to him. That alone is enough for him to realize what she's about to tell him is extremely important.
"Beloved, whatever it is, please believe that I have the strength to face it. Even if it can cause me distress, it hurts me more that I cannot bear a burden with you and that you cannot share your heart with me." Gently, he coaxes, his hand rubbing her back comfortably.
With tension somewhat released from her at his words, Byleth slacks against him and asks, "You remember what I've told you about my family?"
"Of course, I do." Learning that the family of your wife is actually the Saints and the first Goddess herself is not something anyone could forget. He has been completely caught off guard when Byleth revealed it to him but thankfully, knowing that she is the Goddess makes it much easier to accept everything.
"I haven't told you how they come to be, and why there are only 5 of them left." She rests her forehead against his shoulder. "I can show you everything. But do you want it?"
He grabs her shoulders, strong and steady with a confirmation, "I do."
She steadies herself in his hold and pushes her forehead against his.
All becomes darkness.
Before Dimitri knows it, he is standing with Byleth in a vast landscape surrounded by mountains. It takes him a moment to recognize a few of them and concludes that he is in Zanado, the Red Canyon.
Byleth points to the sky, and Dimitri sees a star is falling.
"That was Sothis, my great-grandmother, on the day she first took steps onto this land." His fiancée explains and together, they watch the star impact against the ground. The wind and all the debris pass harmlessly through him as if he isn't there, allowing him to remain aware of how the star has created a giant crater.
Soon, humans in much simpler, primitive clothing come to check. They found a beautiful woman in the center of the hole. And it began from there.
Dimitri watches in awe as the scenes around him move and change. He watches how Sothis start mediating wars between tribes and teaches humans knowledge to improve their lives and societies. As people expanded across the land, Sothis created her children to help and advise them in her stead. Years passed and the world changed into something he has never seen before.
Soon, cities of unimaginable wealth and technologies spasmed across the earth.
But as their power grew, the king notices how hubris started to cloud their minds. In the cities filled with sky-scraping pillars around Fódlan, people on the streets boasted how they should have more, and how Sothis should now bow to them for what they had achieved. They wished to have the world in their hands.
Dimitri watches as the people called 'Agarthans' destroyed the world. They attacked humans and dragons alike, harvested everything they wanted only to want more. Weapons that could be launched and exploded across the lands were used indiscriminately. Cities, lands, and countries disappeared overnight, leaving behind sickness that killed those who managed to survive. The Agarthans become the locust horde that could not stop consuming the world around them.
Sothis tried to stop them. She put herself between the aggressors and their victims and tried to persuade them.
They attacked her without hesitation, only to learn Sothis's rage was truly something to behold.
The entire world trembled under her wrath. Lands and seas split apart and flame storms swallowed up what remained. Energy beams came down from the sky to annihilate enormous fortresses and armies.
And when it ended, when her enemies had all disappeared, she started to heal the world. Everything began again. And finally, the Goddess could have her rest.
As Dimitri observes the Goddess preparing for her slumber in the dimly lit chamber, he wonders if Byleth could do what Sothis had done. But what concerns him the most is the possibility that something as horrible as what the Argathans could do, can happen again and force Byleth's hand.
A light brush of her fingers against the back of his hand stops his musing. He looks at her only to find that she is avoiding his gaze.
"Dima, I'm so sorry."
"What's wrong, Beloved?" He asks, but couldn't delve further for the door to the tomb opened.
Stepping in was a man with white hair and a beard. His clothing was rough and not something a guard for this place would wear. And most alarming of all, in his hand was an unsheathed sword.
"It can't be, no one should come into this place before Sothis woke up." Dimitri instinctively reaches out to stop the man only for his hand to go through him.
He tries again but Byleth stops him. Her cold hand, her stoic expression, and the despair in her eyes are all that are enough for him to know his interference is futile.
He can only watch helplessly as the man committed the unspeakable crime against the Goddess with Byleth's hand as the only thing to ground him against this nightmare.
There was too much blood. The entire surface of the throne was covered in blood.
But the monster was laughing. He laughed and laughed as he ripped apart the inside of Sothis. He laughed as he devoured her raw flesh and drank deep her blood.
When the monster finally had his fill, he dragged the remain of Sothis with him outside.
The world has turned dark again, and within its silent emptiness, Dimitri finally allows himself to breathe and to swallow down the bitter bile in his throat.
"Byleth—"
She squeezes his fingers and the world appears again. It was still painted in red, but this time, it was also the color of flame, not just blood.
"…Zanado?" Dimitri could make out the buildings he has seen previously engulfed in red blazes.
People, dragons, and humans alike, are being massacred. Many of them have their bodies ripped apart to be trampled upon by the enemies' feet. Green and red blood mixed together into dark brown rivers. But they were the lucky ones.
In the main square of the city, a big group of Nabateans from various ages were chained up. Dimitri could recognize all of them to be the most direct children and grandchildren of Sothis—in other words, Byleth's granduncles, grandaunts, and cousins. They screamed and attempted to save their people in vain as pain from their shackles paralyzed them with the smallest movements.
"Behold, the Fell Star!"
As one pale man shouted, Sothis's killer appeared from amidst the crowd, in his hand the Sword of the Creator that prompted cries of horror through the population
"Mother! No, no!"
"It cannot be, Mother!"
All the dragons in both human and beast forms roar in agony for Sothis as the man held up the Holy Sword. And it's only then that Dimitri finally comprehends it.
Sothis? No, this must be a nightmare. This cannot be!
He tries to deny it but the terror of watching the tragedy befalling onto Byleth's family is too much for his mind to escape.
He watches as each Nabatean had their flesh and skin stripped off their body with knives and a corrosive liquid.
Their stone hearts ripped from their chests while the pale men removed the bones and muscles, still fully attached to each other from their bodies.
A child, that couldn't be older than 10, was screaming until his throat bled as the monsters held him down and slowly removed his legs.
A woman had her womb cut open to expose the fetus within.
A father stared in despair as his daughter was defiled and cut in half as his own lungs were being torn from his back.
A little girl that looks too similar to Flayn with her disembodied head being thrown down the stairs to the laughing crowd of invaders. A pale man examines her intestines with his tools.
A man had his eyes gouged out and they extracted his tendons.
More deaths. More torment. Too much agony. Too many grudges and curses. Too many innocents being dragged to hell by these humans. No, they could not be humans, they were monsters. Beasts in human forms.
No one was spared—children, elders, men, women, the weak, and the unarmed. Their murderers laughed and danced on their corpses.
Dimitri finally notices that his face is wet with tears when he has already collapsed onto his knees, trying to empty the non-existent content in his stomach. His hand crushes Byleth's in an iron grip. She is still standing, looking at the carnage in front of them without blinking.
"Byleth, don't look anymore. Please, don't look!" The king stands up. He tries to turn her away but it's useless. The tears streaming down her face is all that he needs to know that she has seen this too many times.
In the end, he can only embrace her as they witness the end of her once large family.
After 7 days and nights of this hell on earth, the man, now finally revealed to be Nemesis, left with his army. He took with them a large part of the butchered remains of the Nabateans while the human citizens of Zanado and their draconic counterpart were left lying there to be exposed to the elements.
Another 3 days passed, a sunset on the horizon, a single—still living—child with green hair staggered into the main street. The blood on the ground and on her had dried long ago. She walked, green eyes unblinking, until she reached the dais where her family was murdered to pick up the head of a child.
No tears or a single word. She stood among the corpses until three dragons descended from the sky.
Afterward, Dimitri only numbly takes in everything his Goddess shows him afterward. Through her memory, he learns everything—the day his ancestor drank the blood Nemesis gave him and received the bones and heart of Byleth's grandaunt, which had been forged into Areadbhar. The first war the 10 Elites and Nemesis started in the name of liberation was only an excuse to invade their neighbors; the founding of the Adrestian Empire.
And the dawn where Seiros finally slayed Nemesis.
Dimitri stands there, hand never leaving Byleth's as Seiros and her surviving family watched her army clean up the aftermath.
Seiros declares her wish, which was to spare the descendants of the Elites and prioritize the peace of Fódlan, the world around them slowly turning dark…
Suddenly, Dimitri finds himself in the Goddess Tower once more with Byleth still in his arms. She is crying, and when droplets of tears land on her face, he knows he is weeping, too.
"Don't cry, my love," Byleth slowly opens her eyes. Hands wipe away his tears, her lips gently brush against his cheeks.
"How did you forgive us? H-how could you and your family forgive all of us? The things we have done to you all—" He chokes, his whole body shakes in rage and sorrow. "How do you look at me and not see the man that had drunk your kin's blood, used her bones to commit the vilest deeds with his friends?"
"Dima—"
"We are monsters. These Crests we have, stolen from you—we have been exploiting flesh and blood of your people for generations!"
"Dimitri." Her voice, together with her warm hands, snap him out of his misery. Byleth grabs his face. "Do you think that all children born with Crests are the same genocidal monsters as their ancestors?"
"What? Of course not."
"And do you think that any children we have will carry the sin of Blaiddyd? Are you going to make them carry this so-called guilt? Are you going to make them pay?"
The thought about his children being hurt for something they have never done enrages him. He knows that any children Byleth will give him will be the most innocent and kind beings on earth.
"Never. I will never harm a single hair on our children. They should never have to carry the sin of those before them—" Dimitri snarls, but abruptly stops when he becomes aware of his foolishness.
"See, none of our little ones will have to bear this sin. The same is applied to you and everyone else. Rhea has already made the Elites and Nemesis pay for it, and even with her hatred still existing now, she still cares for all of you. That was why she chose to sacrifice herself when Edelgard attacked the monastery.
"And me?" Byleth cups his face. "I love my students and I love you. I've seen you all for what you are, brave men and women who fight to protect your world and the innocents in it. You are not Blaiddyd, just like your friends are not their ancestors. There is no need for forgiveness when you have nothing apologize for in the first place."
His tears could not stop coming out at her words. He sobs like a child into her chest, lips murmuring unneeded apologies. His mind is too muddled to think further than what is in front of him—
Dimitri's eyes snap open as a sudden thought comes to him. His blood goes cold as the idea starts to form clearer in his head.
"Byleth… those pale men that aided Nemesis, do they look familiar to you?" Dimitri asks with a thin voice.
Her eyes immediately harden at his question, they are almost glowing in the dark. "I have a suspicion that they are connected to the ones that backed Edelgard. The people that controlled the demonic beasts, and who had replaced Tomas and Monica. The weapons they used, their style of fighting, magic, and dressing, and the way they referred Sothis as 'The Fell Star'…"
The king begins to connect the dots. If those fiends who had slaughtered Byleth's kin are the same ones that had allied with El, then they were also in league with Cornelia, who had approached his stepmother…
"My beloved, could it be that our families have the same murderer? Could it be that the two of us actually have the same enemy?" If he was still that monstrous self, Dimitri would have laughed at the chance to avenge their dead. But the current him can only think of the sheer implication of what he just theorized.
A group of conspirators that has lasted for over a thousand years. The ones that had helped Nemesis to commit deicide and then backing her to lead this entire continent into a devastating war.
Byleth, in tune with him as always, speaks up with a hard edge in her tone, "I cannot confirm it yet, but I, and Grandmother, speculate that those men are the Agarthans."
Dimitri jolts. He presses, "are you certain?"
"Cornelia had access to those giant golems, or should I say 'automatons'. That kind of technology only existed widespread to humans before Sothis reset the world, but even before that, all countries that possessed it were already turned into wastelands by the Agarthans. Currently, my grandmother is the only one that possesses such things, or so we thought."
She recounts with a bitter look. But is it just him, or is there even a hint of fear in—
"Byleth…" Dimitri breathes, the thought and horror that come to him are just too much. "Please tell me, my love, if what we just said is true, then… Is it possible for you to meet the same fate as Sothis? Ca—can they—"
He swallows. "Can they turn your body into another weapon? Just like what they did to your relatives?"
Byleth avoids his gaze, but a muted dip of the head from her is enough to confirm his fear. He squeezes his fiancée against his chest, hoping that patting her hair the way she loves will calm her down, only to realize that she is shaking.
He wants to ask if the same could happen to their children but decides against it—they both cannot take in another horrible thought tonight. There is no needs to agitate themselves more.
He embraces her silently. There is no moon tonight, but the darkness up here is comfortable enough. He will wait until she falls asleep to bring her back to her room.
"Dimitri," Byleth mutters, voice muffled against his collar bone.
"Yes?"
"I'm sorry… for making you bear this burden."
"Don't be; I do not regret this. Even if you remained silent, I would soon discover this on my own. So, thank you for being honest with me."
More silence, but Byleth stopped shaking and evens out her breath.
"Dima."
"Yes?"
"Will you hold me?"
"You needn't have to ask, Beloved."
xxXxx
Dimitri can't help but feel conscientious under Seteth's disappointed stare. The king knows both him and Byleth have terrible bags under their bloodshot eyes but he simply can't regret last night. Of course, he should have brought her back to her bed, but being able to comfort her until dawn was absolutely worth it.
"Seteth," Byleth says simply, and it's already enough for the green-haired man to give up while his daughter giggles next to him.
"Very well, you win. But I hope that you will take care of yourself better during this trip." His eyes soften at his grandniece. "And be sure to eat properly."
Ever since Dimitri learned that Seteth is Byleth's grand uncle, he has started to notice how the man has been treating her much less formal than before. In fact, he is downright protective and doting at times.
"I know, Seteth. I can take care of myself." Byleth almost pouts but does not look upset at all. "Besides, I have Dimitri with me."
Dimitri blushes when Byleth reaches out to take his hand. Feeling confident with her trust, he declares to Seteth, "I will protect her with my life."
The bishop smiles and nods while Flayn claps her hands and coos.
And just like that the king, the archbishop, and their entire entourage depart.
This trip will take not even a week and a half as opposed to before the war, when one would need more than half a month to make their way between Garreg Mach and Fhirdiad if they're a noble, or two months' worth if they were a commoner.
Before Edelgard declared war to the entire continent, there were warp points here and there that allowed people to somewhat cut short their tour. But even then, not all of those warp points were available to all—half of them were opened only for nobles, and merchants with enough golds to pay their way through.
One of Byleth's earliest achievements as the new archbishop was doubling the number of warp points on the entire continent to allow more access to remote regions instead of primarily to the major cities and towns.
Of course, such an expansive construction requires a lot of energy to operate and maintain. That's why each point can only work 2-3 times per day, but that only prompts more people to gather around them at the same time to wait for their turn. Ingrid has already seen the potential to set up stalls for extra revenues.
Of course, there are considerable distances between the points so most of the time, Dimitri and everyone still have to travel on foot. The blond actually likes it this way because it gives all of them a chance to observe the world around them.
Every two days or so, whenever they need more food, Dimitri would volunteer to go hunting. Years of surviving in the wild have allowed him to be a much better hunter than he used to be as a student. The light brightens in Byleth's green orbs whenever he shows off his prey to her, always washing away any fatigue he feels. She would then show him all the things she has foraged with their friends—wild vegetables, mushrooms, berries, and more.
Afterward, they would cook their own dinner much to the protests of the servants. He would help Byleth as much as he can even though she handles most of the bulk. Then they would eat together next to the open fire. For many moments, Dimitri thinks that perhaps this is how their life together would be if they were born as normal people.
Traveling this light isn't quite suitable for prolonged deskwork, so the couple has quite a bit of free time to spend with each other, which is something Dimitri tries to savor as much as he can before the inevitable happens. Everyone around must understand it, too, because they all give the two of them a wide berth after dinner, even Sylvain. That is why each and every night, Dimitri could enjoy embracing Byleth in a private spot and watch the stars with her.
She would point to each and every single star in the sky and tell him their names.
"That is what the ancient people would call the 'Swamp Wyvern.'" Byleth explains with a comfortable rub on his hand with her thumb. "It's a very young star. And next to it is the 'Little Lamb'. Though I think it's shaped more like a rabbit."
"Beloved, it looks like a cat."
"A rabbit-cat then." Byleth answers with all of her seriousness.
"Then what should it eat? Grass or mice?"
"Fish."
"This rabbit-cat must be related to your family!" He laughs.
The silly talks levitates the heaviness in their hearts night after night. The warmth of her body and the softness of her lips wipe away all of the exhaustion in his body while her advice and wise words ease his mind. There is still much to worry about—especially the Agarthan—but for now, they deserve some peace and quiet.
Byleth's mood also improves greatly as they pass through fields and villages during the days. Farmers are sowing the spring crops the army had delivered to them. As meager as they are, at least his beloved's power will ensure that all of them will grow healthy. Many villages are lacking men, who either were killed or forcefully conscripted by Edelgard and never returned, so their people are being fed by his soldiers who hunt food for them while teaching children the skills to survive.
Houses are still being rebuilt. Byleth has made sure to send clothes, blankets, and extra food to at least keep people warm during the previous winter so at least now, they are all in good spirits. The weather is still quite cold as one would expect. No matter where the royal party goes, people would flock to them and give their thanks.
They hold Dimitri and Byleth's hand and shower them with well-wishes. Many of them praise the couple for choosing to court each other in their old way. One old woman even presses a gold anklet into his palm.
"I cannot take this, my lady." Dimitri attempts to gently hand it back, but the woman shakes her head.
"This has no uses for me anymore, my dear. All of my family were killed by the Imperial soldiers." Her eyes glaze over under the sunlight. "But you, my king, you have saved us all, and are still alive to see another day. The rites need you to bring your bride presents that were earned by your own hands. It's preferred that you get this during the courtship time, but rules can be bent so please take it, see it as the first in many things you can give her. This is just a little gratitude from this old woman."
He mutely receives the charm before dipping his head to receive her hand, pressing against his head with a traditional poem that wishes him and Byleth's happiness.
When they finally get to the last night where they have to sleep in tents, Byleth tells him with a proud smile, "Your people will be overjoyed. I can already imagine how they will welcome you."
Dimitri notices that she did not mention herself in that equation but stays silent. Felix, who had arrived at Fhirdiad first for the preparation, has sent the king a report which allows him to give Byleth a surprise.
When the next morning comes and they had all packed up their tents, Dimitri swiftly sweeps Byleth off her feet and carries her to his horse while the maids swoon at the sight. She gives him an inquisitive look as he places her sideways on the saddle before getting on it himself. He swiftly rearranges her so that she sits comfortably with her legs hook over his thigh. Once the blond is satisfied, he gives the order for all to move forward.
"I like this," Byleth concludes, almost giddily, after a few minutes of being pressed against his front as the horse moves.
"Then we can do this as often as you like." The king places his lips on his love's temple. Byleth rewards him in turn with a kiss on his lips and this time, Ingrid giggles alongside the other falcon knights while Ashe coughs.
It only takes more than two hours for them to see Fhirdiad from afar. When the party comes close enough, they can see a giant group of people in front of the enormous gate of the city with Felix standing among them.
The young duke bows before his king with a smirk. "Welcome back, Your Majesty, Lady Byleth. I hope your journey was enjoyable?"
"Very much so, Duke Fraldarius. But nothing could bring more joy than to return to my home and show it to my future bride." Dimitri smiles with a hand squeezing Byleth's shoulder. Sylvain snickers behind them.
Felix doesn't snort as usual but huffs with a smile. He waves his hand to signal for the soldiers to open the gate before getting on his own horse.
The moment the doors move, a thunderous sound echoes across the air. Dimitri commands his horse move forward while his hands, steady Byleth, who is too entranced by the view in front of her.
"Your Majesty! Your Majesty!"
"Welcome back, King Dimitri!"
"Lady Byleth! Welcome back, welcome!"
"Over here, my lady. Please look over here!"
"Queen Byleth, we love you! Thank you so much!"
"Look at them, what a beautiful couple!"
"Cheers for His and Her Majesty!"
Placing his lips to the shell of her ear, the king whispers, "I am not the only one they are waiting for, my love. Do not think that you are not a part of this, because our people adore you, too."
In a flash, the whole city changes. It is almost as if the air has become lighter and warmer while the sun shines even brighter. All the trees in the Capital that are still budding their first spring leaves explode into full thick greens. Flowers bloom on trees, on bushes, on every balcony and window that has even just a little bit of green on them.
Before the citizens of the Capital could even react beyond a few gasps, a strong gush of wind blow the petals into a shower of colors, blending between them are sparkles of light.
"The Goddess has shown her blessing!"
"Long live the King and Queen!"
Deafening roars and applauds completely drown out all sounds. The name of the king and his future wife are chanted throughout the streets and buildings. Children and adults alike dancing in the flower rain. Everyone is so overtaken by the wonder in front of them that they don't notice the slightly panicked look from the royal couple.
"I'm sorry. I lost control." She whispers while her hand doesn't stop waving at people.
"Please don't be sorry." Her betrothed chuckles. "Just don't panic and we will be all right. And I am glad to see you happy like this. So, welcome home, my love, we've missed you."
Byleth smiles brilliantly beneath the sunlight as a flower lands in her hair. She cups his face which prompts several oohs, ahhs, and whistles from everyone around them.
"I'm home, Dima."
