"Bernadetta?"

The girl in question jumped a little, clearly startled by being called out so suddenly. She was just minding her own business, playing with one of the cats outside the classrooms.

"Y-yes! Oh, it's just you, Prin- er, Edelgard. Hilda too? Didn't think I'd see you two together," she said.

"We just wanted to talk for a bit. Are you free?" Edelgard asked.

"Um, am I in trouble for something?" She asked nervously.

"What? No, why would you be?" Edelgard responded.

"Oh, phew, then yeah I'm free. What did you need?" Bernadetta said, relieved.

"Do you mind if we move somewhere more private? I don't believe you'd want others overhearing us." Hilda suggested.

"Sure… really, I'm not in trouble am I? I swear I didn't do anything!" She tried to tell them as they led her elsewhere.

"So," Edelgard started speaking as she closed the door to her dorm room. "You like him too?"

"Wha- w-w-what are you talking about?! N-no I-"

"It's fine. She hit me with that too. No need to deny it," Hilda sighed. "Just say it so we can get on with what we wanted to talk to you about."

"I-" she hesitated. "I do… of course I do. How could I not? He's just… he's always been there for me. Ever since he got here, he's been nothing but a saint to all of us. You can't blame me for that…"

"Yep, you've got a point there," Hilda laughed. "That man sure is something else, huh? Captured all of our hearts."

"So, we would like to propose something. Would you consider sharing him with others? Even if you weren't his only partner, could you live with that?" Edelgard asked.

"Well… I- I can't say I would be against it, but… is it just you two?" She asked.

"No. Well, as of now… yes, but only because we haven't spoken to anyone else about it just yet. We figured it would be best to gradually ease everyone into it," Edelgard explained to her.

"Wait- everyone?! Who is everyone?" Bernadetta was clearly a bit overwhelmed.

"Whoever wishes to partake in this. It is Sothis' wish to see us all happy. She understands our feelings as I'm sure she may have shown to you. She also wishes for a happy family. One that we're part of."

Bernadetta sat with her thoughts for a moment as Edelgard's words sank in. "If… if you'll have me, then. I can't imagine what it would be like to not be with him in the future. It helps that we're all friends too, right?"

"Of course. He's got plenty of care to go around. We've already seen it in the way he's always eager to help everyone," Hilda pointed out.

"So who else were you thinking of?" Bernadetta asked curiously.

"Well, at the moment, there's us three that know about this alongside the Goddess. However, we had a feeling that speaking with the shyest girls would be the best. It would be overwhelming for them to learn that there are a lot of us interested in him. To that end, Marianne would be the next on our list to talk to," Edelgard told her.

"Huh… Well, I guess I can stop stressing so much over where I'm gonna be in the future, right? He's more than capable. I can just stay at home all the time away from the rest of the world!" Bernadetta exclaimed.

"I'm not sure that's true, Bernadetta…" Edelgard said.

"Yeah, I always try to get him to leave me with as little work as possible but he's always putting me in those situations, you know? Don't count on staying inside all day," Hilda warned.

"Oh come on… don't crush my dreams before we get to them," Bernadetta pouted. Much to her dismay, the girls around her couldn't help but giggle at her downtrodden attitude.

-M-

"Hey, you sure this is a good idea? They're right next to each other you know," Hilda asked the former Princess as the two observed the people in the cathedral.

"Well, even if Marianne was our intended audience, I don't suppose it would be a bad idea to include Mercedes. I'm sure they would both be on board given the Goddess' wishes," Edelgard shrugged. They watched as the two girls seemed to be discussing something off to the side.

"Yeah, you're probably right… Guess we should just get on with it then," Hilda said as she approached the two girls. They were isolated enough that talking about it now didn't seem to be a big deal.

"Apologies for the interruption, but are you two busy?" Hilda asked. "We've got something we wanted to talk about."

"Um, what do you need?" Marianne responded in her usual soft voice.

"It's about Professor Byleth," Hilda answered.

"Oh, we were just talking about him as well!" Mercedes revealed.

"Would you say you have feelings for him?" Edelgard asked.

"Woah, straight to the point, huh?" Hilda said, impressed at the girl's boldness.

Just as expected, Marianne turned red with embarrassment from the question. Meanwhile, Mercedes was much more willing to speak.

"Of course! He's been nothing but kind and considerate to us. Also, his connection with the Goddess must explain why he has been such a charmer lately. But… I don't want to hurt anyone else's feelings…" Mercedes admitted.

"We've already spoken with Bernadetta about this, but what if there was a way around that? A way that even the Goddess is interested in," Edelgard said. The two girls seemed to perk up at her words.

"We talked with Bernadetta about the idea of having multiple partners. It's something fit for royalty, isn't it? The Goddess herself wants a big happy family too," Hilda explained.

"Well that's a relief," Mercedes sighed. "I'm sure Annie is also interested in him… I couldn't bear hurting her for chasing my own selfish desires. But if the Goddess wants it as well? I'm sure she would be happy to hear it."

Edelgard nodded. "I see. And you, Marianne?"

"Oh, um… I… would like that as well," she said, her voice becoming barely a squeak at the end. "I'm happy that you are all kind enough to consider me a friend. I would be content spending my time with you all as well as the Professor."

"I see. Well, we haven't made any moves yet. We'd like to give the other girls a chance to get close to him as well. Whosoever wishes, we will also speak with them regarding Sothis' request," Edelgard told them. "For the time being, please treat him as you would normally.

"Of course! I admit I have grown fond of all of you even if I may not speak with you all too often. I wish we had more time to, but I suppose in the future, we will!" Mercedes giggled.

Edelgard nodded. "Yes, I'm sure we'll have plenty of time to get to know one another even further should this all fall through. That is all that we wished to speak about. If you had any questions, we'd be glad to answer."

"Thank you for speaking with us about this…" Marianne said softly as she expressed a faint smile. "When can we expect to hear more about this? When will we move on?"

"Ah, I'm unsure. I suspect many of you will want it sooner rather than later. Truth be told, I have the same wishes. However, I'm afraid of what the future may have in store given my separation from the Empire. War is on the horizon. That much I'm sure of. There are still enemies that pose a threat to the entirety of Fódlan if we let our guard down. To that end, I cannot guarantee anything," Edelgard explained.

"I see… How are you, Edelgard? Is it not hard fighting back against the place you lived? I understand you may not agree with everything they do, but…"

The girl in question was taken aback. She hadn't expected Marianne to ask about her. "I may have grown up in the Empire, but my home is with everyone here. I… my life was nothing but traumatic before I came here. My only saving grace as a child was Dimitri, funnily enough. My uncle had taken me to Faerghus when I was much younger. However, that man is gone. In truth, most of the Empire has become lap dogs to the real enemy."

"I hope the people are okay…" Mercedes said, worry evident in her voice.

"Ah, that's right. You're originally from the Empire, aren't you, Mercedes? You and Jeritza?" Edelgard recalled.

"Yes… Emile and I…. He is only my half brother. My mother married into House Bartels of the Empire. He was only after her crest however. To that end, Emile… changed."

"And he eventually became the Death Knight. I apologize for my role in that, Mercedes. The person I was in the past… I regret everything about it," Edelgard clenched a fist, clearly upset.

"No, please. It's fine. You saved him, truth be told. I don't think he could have lived with himself given what he gave up. But he's safe now. And for that, I am eternally grateful," Mercedes reassured her.

"Still… I guess it's in the past now. But I-"

"It's okay. Forgive yourself, Edelgard," Mercedes said in her caring, motherly tone. "What matters is that Emile is okay now. If I can forgive you, you can forgive yourself. You've done what you can to fix the past. You even came back with the Goddess to do it."

Mercedes brought the girl close, something Edelgard wasn't expecting. She never really noticed their height difference. All in all, it was a welcome one. Her comforting embrace wasn't something she had ever felt. It was different from Byleth's. Perhaps she was more conscious of her feelings for him. Right now however, in Mercedes' arms, there was a certain feeling she couldn't describe. Perhaps because she never remembered her mother. No matter the case, she appreciated the girl's attempts to comfort her.

-Ly-

Lysithea panted in exhaustion as she began to speak. "Thank you for helping me with my training again today, Professor. I'm gonna keep at it for a while longer, so go on ahead."

"You should get some rest, Lysithea. You've been pushing yourself a lot," he warned her. "I don't want you getting hurt."

She shook her head. "I can't. Not when I'm right on the cusp of using my power to greater potential. Surely you yourself are tired. Just… don't worry about me, okay?"

Even as those words came out of her mouth, Lysithea found the world around her fading to black as all of the strength in her body left. Byleth was quick to catch the girl, concern clear on his face as he lifted her up.

"Already past her limit, huh?" He said to himself. He carried the exhausted girl to the infirmary, Manuela greeting him, acknowledging the unconscious student, and getting straight to work.

"What happened?" She asked him.

"Overworked. She's been pushing herself these past few days. Was hoping she was more aware of her capabilities, but she really pushed herself," Byleth explained.

"I see. If it's just overwork, she should be fine after a few days of rest. I'm glad you brought her here though. Better safe than sorry, right?" Manuela said. "You can leave her here with me if you have other things to do. I can watch over her."

"No, it's alright. I'll stay for a while until she wakes up. I'm sure if I don't tell her right away, she'll feel guilty that I had to bring her to you," he said as he took a seat.

A few hours passed before the girl woke up. Lysithea slowly stirred, looking around at her surroundings before her eyes fell on the professor by her side. It seemed it was just the two of them.

"I'm sorry, Professor… It was careless of me to continue despite how fatigued I clearly was. I probably should have listened to you. Now I've made a mess of things…" Lysithea was clearly upset over her own perceived weakness.

"It's alright, Lysithea. Please, you don't need to be upset. I understand the feeling of wanting to work even when you're not up for it," Byleth tried to reassure her.

"Sorry, I can't help but feel the need to rush in all things constantly. You get that way when you realize… you haven't got much time left," she spoke in a dry tone.

He felt his breath hitch as he understood the implications of what she said. "What do you mean? Lysithea…"

"Years ago, House Ordelia was involved in a civil conflict with the Empire. My family was held responsible for the aid we gave and the Empire gained some control over us as a result. No one else in the alliance lent a hand to my family. Some people were killed and people from the Empire were sent to replace them. Among them were some… strange mages. Looking back, it was probably people from where Kronya is from. They… they captured and imprisoned children from our household. They performed terrible experiments on them," she explained.

Byleth knew immediately where this was going. 'Edelgard…'

"The Empire was monitoring our every move. My parents could do anything to stop them. In the end, only I remained. My hair wasn't always this color. But one day, after their… experiments, I woke up like this. Plain white hair. All traces of pigment gone. They found that their experiments were a success. They found two crests. Because of that-"

"Your lifespan was shortened," Byleth interrupted her. "You're not alone, you know. Edelgard… She also bears the same burden as you. I apologize for not putting two and two together before, but you two are a lot more similar than I thought."

"Wait, she- No, that makes sense. I also hadn't realized it either. But to think she's also like me…"

"I promise to you both. We'll find a way to save you. I'm sure with everyone's help, we'll do it," he reassured her.

"Ever since this all came to be, my family began to decline. Now, it's hard for my family to govern their territory. I just want my mother and father to have peace as they grow older. It's all I wish for but… I'm afraid I don't have much time to ensure that it comes to pass," Lysithea admitted.

"We'll get through this. I know it's hard, but I swear to you, we'll find something," he said.

"I… I'm scared, Professor," Lysithea's voice cracked as her usual serious demeanor revealed her true feelings. "I'm tired and I'm lost… I don't like not knowing what to do. I feel… hopeless."

"It's okay to feel scared," he said as he hugged her, comforting the girl. "I'm here for you. We're all here for you."

"How does she do it?" Lysithea asked through sniffles. "How does Edelgard push on knowing she's on a timer as well?"

"She's always looking towards the future. She understands that there's no use in fearing death. She's seen enough of it. We can only push on and hope we find a solution. She's always looking for that answer to her problems whenever she can. You should talk to her some time."

"Thanks, Professor… I'll try. If we can really come up with a way to fix our issues…"

"We will. And I'll be by your side every step of the way, alright?" He smiled at the girl.

"Okay. Thank you… I don't know what else to say," she smiled back.

-Le-

"Hey, Professor, can we talk?"

Byleth looked up from his desk to see Leonie standing in front of him. "Yeah, what's the matter?"

"I still feel terrible about the last time we spoke. I was trying to apologize and lost my temper anyway. I know you forgave me then, but I still just feel guilty about it," she admitted.

"I told you it's alright, Leonie. Really, it's fine," he tried telling her.

Instead, she shook her head. "I figured you would say that, but I still feel like an idiot. I just… can't really keep my emotions in check when I'm around you. And I think if I don't just tell you what I'm thinking, we'll never be able to have a normal conversation. So let me clear the air. I want us to, uh… engage…"

"You want to get engaged?"

"Yeah, I- wait, what? I mean I wouldn't- but I- In a duel! I want to engage in a duel!" Leonie fumbled with her words as his response sank in. "I know it's a sudden request, but I'm not going to feel settled until I know where I stand. Would you do that for me?"

Byleth nodded. "If you so wish."

"Alright," she began. "Don't hold back, okay? I want to see you at your absolute best!"

The two made their way to the training grounds, preparing themselves for their duel. And just as she requested, he didn't hold back.

And as her weapon clattered to the ground, Leonie raised her hands, admitting defeat. "You got me. I'm completely outmatched, huh?"

"I have years of actual combat experience. Don't put yourself down like that. I'm sure that with enough time, you could surpass me," he told her.

"Maybe, but you've also got plenty of time to keep improving, don't you? It's fine though. Knowing that you're stronger, honestly? That's what I needed to see," she said. "You really are his kid, huh? I almost felt like you were him. I thought I was competing with you, but that's as pointless as competing with him. Instead, I'm going to focus on keeping the promise I made to him."

"What promise?" he asked.

"He always wanted us to get along. Of course he would. He made me promise that if anything happened to him, I'd support you in his place. I know he's fine, but… I think there's a reason he wanted us to get along, you know? I know I'm not as strong as I need to be. But I swear to you, I'll train until I am! What do you say? Can I call you my employer?"

"I know I can count on you," he replied.

"Good. Then it's official! I'll protect you no matter what! Well… when I get stronger, that is…" she said sheepishly.

"Until that day comes, I'll be sure to protect you then, alright?"

"I'll take you up on that Professor. You'll… teach me lots, won't you?" Leonie asked with a wink.

"Of course. That's what I'm here for," he replied casually. Her attempt at flirting went clean over his head. Who could blame him? It is his job to teach his students after all.

"…Right. Okay, I guess I should've expected that, huh?" She said with a sigh. "Well, you'll at least let me do this, won't you?" She asked as she sat between his legs. She pulled his arms around her, laying back onto chest as his cheeks flushed.

"Leonie?"

"Just let me have a moment. I'm just tired is all," she shushed him. 'Seriously? Maybe sometime later…'

-I-

Byleth was surprised to hear a knock on his door at such a late time. He got out of his chair, walking over to open the door for whoever seemed to need him.

"Hello? Oh, Ingrid? I didn't expect to see you up so late," he greeted the girl.

"Apologies for bothering you so late. I just… really wanted to speak with you. Do you mind if I come in?" She asked. Ingrid held her arm, clearly upset about something.

"Please do. I'm always happy to listen," he said, welcoming her in. Meanwhile, Sothis sat in bed, a book in hand as she waved to the girl who entered the room.

"Ah, apologies for intruding. I hope I'm not bothering you, Goddess," Ingrid bowed.

"No no, please feel free to make yourself comfortable. Don't mind me, you two," she replied.

"Thank you," the girl nodded.

"So what's the matter? It isn't often that you're out this late," Byleth asked.

"Well you see, I've been feeling conflicted. About my future. I know it may seem petty to think of this given we're on the brink of war with the Empire from what Edelgard has said, but…"

He shook his head. "It's okay to confront your own issues. Even if the world as we know it may change tomorrow, my students' problems are still important to me. I'm happy you felt comfortable enough to speak with me about whatever is bothering you."

"I suppose so. This isn't something I open up about with many people. After all this time with you, Professor, of course I've got a lot of trust in you. But this feeling of inner turmoil when we may be at war at any moment? It feels… selfish," Ingrid admitted.

He gently grasped her hand, looking her in the eyes. "It isn't selfish to worry about your future. We don't know what tomorrow holds. If there's something bothering you, talking to someone about it may be the best thing you can do. So please, don't downplay your problems just because other people have their own issues."

"It's about my father. Whereas I have always dreamed of becoming a knight, he has always had different plans for me. He wants me to marry for the benefit of the Galatea family," she admitted.

"Sounds like someone else I spoke to recently," he told her. "You know, Mercedes is in a similar boat as you. Her own father wished to make use of her because of her crest. You don't have to do anything you don't want to. Don't let anyone force you into that."

"I know, it's just… I've seen how he's struggled over the years. His burden has always been far greater than any I've had to bear myself. While he has fed me extravagant meals, he subsisted on meager portions and watered-down soups. He never once complained. Knowing his sacrifices, witnessing all the hardship he has gone through, I've never been able to tell him of my dream to become a Knight. I feel as though I've shunned my duty as a noble," Ingrid said.

"I apologize if I'm overstepping my bounds, but I don't think your father would want you to sacrifice your own happiness for his sake. I may not be a father, but I don't believe he would go through so much just for you to be unhappy with your life. I believe any parent worth their weight would want their child to live the happiest life they can," Byleth assured her. "No matter how much they go through, a good parent will want their child to succeed. I think he may just be afraid that you may not have a secure future. He's still looking out for you. But you may be the one that knows what's best for your future. Follow what your heart desires."

Ingrid smiled as she looked down. "You always know what to say, huh Professor? I think you may be right… I'm glad I have you, Professor. You're always willing to listen to our problems. I really am grateful for all that you do for us, Professor. I… I hope you'll always be with us as a guide to everyone. I know I myself would appreciate that greatly."

"I hope so too, truthfully. I enjoy talking with you all. Spending time with everyone. My position here as a professor has been one of the greatest joys I've had in life. I know I may struggle to express myself most of the time. Just know that each and every one of you are blessings unlike any other. In a sense, meeting you all like this really is a blessing," he said as he looked over towards Sothis.

The Goddess in return shrugged, though the smile on her face betrayed the apathetic gesture.

A sudden grip on his hand reminded him that he had grabbed Ingrid's. Yet as he tried to pull away, he felt her tighten her grip.

"Thank you, Professor. I think… I think I know what I'll do now," Ingrid's smile was beaming. She was happier than ever. 'And I'm sure no matter where I end up, if you support me, I'll always be happy.'

-A-

He was surprised to see the usually busy girl sitting all alone outside the dorms.

"Annette?"

The girl looked up at him in surprise. "Oh. Hi, Professor," she greeted weakly.

"You look down, Annette. Is something the matter?" He asked her.

"Yeah… you know that thing we talked about before? That time we talked about me doing my best to not do my best? I've been pretty busy recently and despite my best efforts, I've been trying way too hard. I was busy all day yesterday with training and work. I just couldn't help myself! So I decided that today, I'd take a break. Take the day off. It's just… Now that I have the day off, I don't know what to do with myself! Please, you have to help me! What should I do?"

"Have you tried just taking a nap? I know Sothis often does whenever she complains to me about being bored," he chuckled.

"I tried, but I couldn't calm down enough to fall asleep. I'm sorry, Professor, but I don't think I'm cut out for not doing my best…" Annette admitted. "Oh, what about you, Professor? You must have some sort of technique for deep relaxation! If you do, please teach me! I'm begging you! I'm at my wit's end!"

"Settle down, Annette. It's not very special, but some nice tea and sweets are a good way to relax after a busy day. I suggest that, perhaps?" He told her. "Shall I?"

"You would do that for me?" She asked. "If you're offering, I'd love it if you could! Maybe I should wait in my room for you? If I'm relaxed from this, maybe then I'll be able to nap."

Byleth nodded in agreement before the two temporarily parted. When Byleth returned to Annette's room, she was happy to see him, kettle in hand with a set of cups. Setting everything down on her table, he left once more to bring back a plate of cookies. He poured two cups, one for each of them, before the two sat together and simply relaxed.

"Mm, this is so delicious! Did Mercie bake these? Oh and your brewing skills are incredible! I'd love to be able to make such nice tea, but… Oh, Professor! Will you teach me how to brew tea like this? I'll do my best to learn, and then I'll make delicious tea for you as thanks!" Annette's mind was racing with all of her thoughts.

"Is this doing your best?" He asked with an amused expression.

"Oh, um, sorry. Back to my old tricks, it seems. Why is it so difficult to not do my best!? I try and try not to try, but it just doesn't work!" Her frustration was clear in her voice as she shook her head.

"Maybe you should just be yourself, Annette. If it's hard on you to do otherwise, maybe it's fine for you to always give it your all. I just want to make sure you aren't overworking yourself, alright? You know your limits best, so please be aware of them," he reminded her.

"I think you're right, Professor. I should just be myself! Doing nothing is just not my style. To be myself, I've got to do my best every day!" She said enthusiastically.

"If that's what it takes, go for it," Byleth encouraged her.

"Right! Now, how about we get started right now? You have to teach me how to make such delicious tea! You will, won't you? Please?" She pleaded.

"Of course I can. Calm down, Annette," he chuckled. "I'll teach you."

Annette smiled, calming down just as he had requested. "Thanks, Professor. You've listened to me and helped me face my troubles. You know, I feel like I can talk to you about anything. Honestly, I wish we could go on drinking tea like this forever…"

"I'll always try to be around," he said. "There's always another day where we can just take the day off to sit around and drink tea."

"But what about when one of us leaves? I won't be a student forever and you might not be a professor forever, right? When that time comes… I don't know if I'll be ready to say goodbye…" she said somberly.

He took her hand in his. "Just because we've left from here doesn't mean we'll never see each other again. You all mean so much to me, Annette. I would hate to see you all go. I'm sure even after you all graduate, we'll find a way to be together still. Even if it isn't all the time."

"You always know what to say, huh? Alright, Professor. You haven't let me down before, so you better stay true to your word!" Annette demanded.

-M-

Monica still wasn't entirely used to her new life. More specifically, she wasn't used to all the attention that she was getting. Even though she had been back for a few months at this point, all the things that happened since didn't leave her with much time to acclimate herself to her surroundings.

Sure, the people around her were kind, but she didn't feel like she really deserved their kindness. After her kidnapping, she was… cautious to say the least. None from her family seemed to ask about her well-being. Now, knowing the situation the Empire was in, she had given up all hope of the place she once called home.

While the thought was depressing, the friends she made at the monastery helped to ease the pain. More importantly, the man who had done everything he could to help her get back on her feet… she didn't know how to thank him.

Not only that, she also didn't know what to do about her feelings. She felt guilty. A part of her was afraid that the feelings she felt toward him were only because of her trauma. She was afraid that they weren't genuine.

The more rational part of her knew though that it had nothing to do with that. No, he had been nothing but a saint to her. His actions every day proved that her feelings were more than justified. And she also knew she wasn't alone.

A part of the guilt ate away at her. It wouldn't be fair to them, right? The others had been there since the beginning. How could she, someone who by all accounts shouldn't even be alive, take their opportunity to be with him?

"Monica?"

His voice startled her. Speak of the devil. As she turned to greet him, she noticed that the library was surprisingly empty. "Ah hello, Professor."

"All alone in the library? It's pretty late," he told her.

"Hm… yeah I guess it is. Sorry, just… lost in thought is all," she said.

"Is something bothering you?" He asked.

"Is it that obvious? Yeah… I- I've been thinking a lot. I don't think I'm comfortable enough to talk about the specifics, but… if it's you, Professor, I'm sure you'll have a solution."

"I'm all ears," he reassured her.

"I'm just afraid. Of losing everything. The day you all found me, I was overjoyed. I never thought I'd make it out of there. When I woke up in the infirmary, I wasn't sure it was real. But Edelgard was there, and I just… broke down. Ever since, you've all welcomed me with open arms but sometimes, I can't help but feel that I don't deserve all this."

He sat across from her at the table and gently cupped her hands in his own. "Don't say that. After everything you've been through, you deserve all of this and so much more. What's been making you feel this way?"

"Compared to everyone else, I feel like an outsider. Everyone's known each other for a while by the time I came around. It just doesn't feel right…" she explained.

He crossed his arms. "I see. Do you think they're just being kind to be kind?"

"No no," she shook her head. "I do believe that the relationships we have are genuine, it's just…"

"Too good to be true? Look, they're all more than happy to welcome you as their friend. I'm glad you're with us. So are they," he comforted her.

"…You really are a blessing, huh Professor? Not just for me, but for everyone. Thanks. You're right though. I need to talk to them. I'm sure we can sort everything out," Monica smiled softly.

-D-

"This may seem a bit sudden, but I want to thank you, Professor," Dorothea said quietly to him.

He looked over toward her as she watched him garden.

"What for?" He asked as he continued tending to his flowers.

"You've been giving me less of those soul-revealing gazes lately. I appreciate you making an effort to not trouble yourself over who I spend my time with," she told him.

"I apologize," he sighed. "I only wish the best for you, and I believe you deserve the best you can get. Having known you for as long as I have as your teacher, I'm invested in your future much like I am with the rest of the students. Only the best for you all."

It was a heartwarming confession that the girl hadn't expected. Of course he wanted them to have a bright future.

"Thanks Professor. That's very sweet of you," she said with a bright smile. "May I tell you a story about when I was younger?" She requested.

He nodded. "If you would like, please do."

"When I was an orphan, living in the back alleys of Enbarr, I overheard singing, and my life changed. As a singer with Mittlefrank, I met all kinds of nobility, performers, and other people. Even so, none of them knew me for who I am. I was just entertainment. But things change. And when I grow old, I know my looks, my voice, and a lot of things about me may change. I guess what I'm trying to say is, I'm afraid of what the future holds. I don't want to return to those streets of Enbarr… Right where I started," she admitted, her facial expression dropping as she looked down.

An arm on her shoulder made her look up into the warm blue eyes of her Professor. "I won't let you be alone. You won't have to go back to a life like that. I promise."

She didn't know what came over her, but she found her arms making their way around him. As she hugged him, she began to talk.

"That's sweet of you, even if you are just flirting," she giggled.

"Wha- no, I didn't mean- I-" her laughing grew as she witnessed him fumble with his words.

"It's alright. I never had much to begin with in life. I worry that one day, I'll be like that again. That's why I keep searching for someone who will love me. Someone unaware of the songstress, who can love a girl that used to be scared and alone on the streets of the Capitol. I wonder if such a person exists…"

"Whatever happens in the future, I'll always be here for you," he told her.

It took her every ounce of willpower to not admit her feelings right then and there. Her cheeks flushed. It's as if he was confessing to her.

"Thanks for making me feel better, Professor. You always know how to calm us down, huh?"

"Do I?" He asked. "I just say what comes to mind. Knowing you as well as I do, it just comes naturally."

She couldn't help but smile, looking him in the eyes. And in that moment, Dorothea knew everything was going to be alright.

-R-

"Hello, Professor. It's good to see you doing so well after the incident with the Cardinal."

"Ah, Lady Rhea. It's not often we see you out here," Byleth noted. The two were currently located in the open market by the gates of Garreg Mach. He had already done the equipment preparations for his students and was browsing the different tea selections that the merchant had.

"Yes, I've been rather busy with the news regarding the Western Church and the Empire. I haven't had much time to get out. However, Seteth insisted I take a break for once and get out of the chambers to relax," she rubbed her temple, clearly tired.

"I see. Well, would you care for some tea? Fresh from the vendors, mind you. I'm sure it would help ease some of your stress at least for a while," Byleth offered.

"Oh? I suppose if you're offering…" Rhea smiled.

The two found themselves in the courtyard by the dining hall. They caught a few eyes as the sight of the Archbishop being out and about was a rare one. Even so, the two were left alone out of respect for both involved. As Byleth poured her a cup, Rhea let out a heavy sigh.

"Something wrong?" He asked her.

"Oh you know how it is with my life," she shook her head. "The news you've brought about the Empire has left me with a lot of work to do."

"Should I not have?" he joked

"It's fine. I would much rather have to do a bit more work and lose a bit of sleep over the other outcome. My heart goes out to the people of the Empire. My… original vision was to have all of the territories live peacefully. However…"

"People aren't like that. Without a common enemy, they'll always find someone to blame. Something to have an issue with," Byleth noted.

"Yes, however it is my responsibility. I… have many regrets, Professor. I may not show off my vulnerabilities, but knowing the harm that crests have done? It weighs on my mind quite a bit."

"I would imagine. You've changed quite a bit from the Rhea I knew," he mentioned. "The Rhea I was familiar with was much more… secretive. Manipulative as well. I don't blame you, looking back."

"That me is gone. Having reflected on everything that I've been told both by you and Edelgard… I am ashamed of who I was. But now? I feel as though I am doing all I can to redeem myself. It's quite strange. Repenting for actions that I myself have no knowledge of. I will not deny the truth though," Rhea affirmed.

"Would you care for some more?" Byleth asked, noticing that her cup was empty.

"Ah, thank you," she offered up her cup. "Please do. Crescent-moon tea? You certainly know your stuff, Professor."

"The past you liked it as well. I assumed that you wouldn't hide your preferences for something like tea, so…" he explained.

Rhea blushed lightly in embarrassment. "Of course… we just spoke about the past me."

"What is your current work like?" Byleth changed the subject, not wishing to dwell on the past any longer.

"As the Archbishop, it is my responsibility to oversee the Church of all of the regions. With the Western Church having rebelled, it is difficult for me to deal with them peacefully. However, I will do all that I can to ensure the safety of the people. I understand that the Empire has been infiltrated, so I hold no ill will towards the people following their church. I have to learn from the mistakes my past self has made. If condemning the Western Church so harshly only leads to more turmoil, I must find an alternative."

"That's very respectable. That's something that's also motivated me to do my best now. To see their smiles after all the pain they've been through? It's worth the world to me."

Rhea smiled as her expression softened. "Wheresoever you guide us, I will trust your judgment. I know they all appreciate everything you do for them. For all of us."

-B-

He laid in bed, staring at the ceiling wide awake even as the girl next to him was soundly asleep. There was no way, right? The more he thought about their past interactions, the more he realized just how foolish he was.

But there was just no way.

"…idiot," Sothis whispered just loud enough for him to hear.

"S-Sothis? You were awake?" He asked.

The Goddess yawned, poking her head up from the covers. "No, but don't forget that a part of me is still within you. I can feel some of the emotions that you do. A bit confused, right? Well, I said what I said. I'll let you figure it out yourself," she said before turning back away from him.

He sighed. A part of him knew, but he didn't want to overstep his boundaries. It was so obvious. The more he looked back, the more obvious it became. He had even gone on two different dates with two of his students.

"Sothis?"

"Took you long enough," she said, still looking away from him. "Let them know whenever you're comfortable. And just in case it wasn't clear, it's all of them."

"I see. Thank you, then," Byleth said as he closed his eyes. Unseen by him was Sothis' gentle smile. She rolled her eyes, shaking her head as she closed her eyes as well, sleep soon overtaking them both.

About time he realized it, huh? Next chapter will likely be plot advancement so we can finally move on to the fluff that this fic was supposed to be full of, but that'll have to wait.

Not following Rhea's in-game supports. Felt like they wouldn't make much sense with the plot points set up so far.

If you're interested in Engage, I'm writing an NG+ fic of that game as well. It should be up at the same time that I've uploaded this.

Sorry for the long wait, but I've been busy with school. Thank you for reading.