I know I said 1 chapter a month, but I had recently commissioned this piece from my friend T.S. Atlas. I'm sure you've seen his name pop up a lot in these A/Ns of mine, he's been a huge help to this story and a great friend.
He said I could upload it here on my story since he didn't want to upload it on his profile. So here you go. Just to be clear I did not have anything to do with writing this, I merely gave Atlas the idea and a few things I wanted and he went to town.
Enjoy.
Before her house fell, Constance would never dream of hanging around ruffians like her current companions. Balthus was, while well mannered, a brute all the same, and Yuri, while he had his charm, was still rather shady. But that was the old Constance. As she was now, those she found herself with were her greatest of friends. That, of course, didn't stop her from complaining about it; she was, after all, from a noble house. But they put up with her, and she them. It was endearing in a way.
Regardless, however, she hadn't yet the time to warm up to their new professor, a merc turned educator. If nothing else, his practical experience made for enlightening lessons, so, she had given him the benefit of the doubt. Even still, she had yet to judge him worthy of House Nuvelle, not that she had much a choice in the first place, but even still. She would take from his lessons what she could, but whether she held him in esteem or not was something else altogether.
And that's what led her to the training grounds. While Balthus was no doubt the strongest of her allies, Yuri was the most skilled; to see how Byleth matched up against him was but a sort of test. That said, it was a truly dreadful day.
With not a cloud in the sky, the sun shone harshly on the training grounds. It seemed only the most dedicated to their routine were out and about, most others taking the heat as a sign to chalk today up as a rest day. It was just another reason to stay out of the sun, she surmised, aside from the obvious, of course.
Sitting in the shade with Hapi at her side, Constance looked out over at the 'boys-at-play', absentmindedly fanning herself with her fan, it doing little to help with the horrid heat that washed over them. Looking over Yuri, she felt bad at seeing him sweat through his summer attire. She'd have to get him something nice as thanks for going along with her request.
Byleth, on the other hand, seemed unaffected by the heat. Where Yuri seemed to grow sluggish, the temperature taking its toll, Byleth was as sturdy as always. In a way, they were equally matched, but it was clear to both Constance and Yuri alike that the man was holding back.
Her interest peaked, however, when Byleth called for them to stop. He couldn't possibly be calling an end to it, could he?
She found herself irritated, tapping her foot rapidly. It was already a pain to come out here for this test of hers, but for it to end so abruptly? It was rather disappointing. What he did next, however, did not disappoint in the slightest.
Apparently, the heat did get to Byleth, he just being that hard to read. In a way, it was no surprise what with him wearing his usual heavy-looking dark outfit. What was surprising, however, was his solution; to strip.
Exposing his torso, he threw aside his sweat-ridden shirt. He rolled his shoulders and neck, stretching slightly before taking his form once more. Only now, his chiseled chest and muscular arms were on full display. My, how bold some commoners can be! Constance fanned herself just a bit faster, finding the heat getting to her. Apparently, Yuri was in a similar situation, looking rather flustered as he readied to continue.
Constance sat a bit straighter, watching the two spar. It was clear Byleth was holding back earlier, but to see just how much he was holding back; Yuri was on the back foot, having tired himself out earlier. Now, he was doing all he could to keep up, Byleth's strikes flying swiftly. His body glistened with sweat as he put clear effort into each swing. He was not so overly built like Balthus, his body much more refined as evident by his swings, a clear balance of speed and power. Imperfections littered his skin, scars of fights in days past, each with a story, each but a component in what it took to build his miraculous body.
Constance quickly shook her head, ridding it of such thoughts. The fight. She must focus on his skill, not his body.
And so, she turned her attention from him to his actions. Each strike had weight to it, the wooden training swords resounding thwack! echoing near violently. She closed her eyes a moment to truly take in the force of each impact. Thwack! Thwack! She could feel his force from the sound alone. Thwack! Her thoughts drifted slightly, wood quickly turning to flesh, the sound a daring smack! as hips met.
Her eyes opened suddenly. Thwack! went the training swords as they collided. She leaned forward, watching with great heed as she saw the Professor push forward. Between each slash, he would step to, forcing Yuri back as he overpowered him. Yuri was already nearing his end, but Byleth didn't slow his pace, instead pressing on full tilt. His strikes became harsher and faster, forceful, until suddenly, he finished with one powerful thrust, the Professor's wooden sword catching Yuri in the shoulder, throwing him to the ground.
Constance heaved a breath, not knowing she was holding one in. Her bottom lip felt sore, she having bitten it unconsciously in watching the two's bout.
"Uhh…Coco? You good?"
Constance turned to Hapi, flustered. Her words were enough to shake her up, bringing her back from the immodest thoughts that flitted through her imagination. "Hmm? Ah, yes, my dear Hapi, what is it?!" She all but snapped.
The dark-skinned student could only raise a brow to her rather weird noble friend. "I was just asking if you were alright…you seem a little…out of it."
"Hmm? Ah, yes…yes, I think you are right." The blonde continued with her fanning, her cheeks burning beet red. "I feel as though this heat might be…getting to me, it seems."
Hapi only frowned. "I told you wearing that get up was too much."
Constance gawked. "Excuse me! Get up! I will have you know, that as a noble member of House Nuvelle, I must always look my best! This is no mere get up, this is simply how one as dignified as me is expected to dress!"
Hapi could only smile at her, this causing her haughty friend to harumph. "Well," she began, "at least it seems you are okay. That said, we should really get you out of this heat, Coco."
"Fine," she submitted, "I will allow you to take me someplace more manageable." The two standing, Constance held out her arm, Hapi taking it with a smile while rolling her eyes.
"Sure, my lady," she spoke sarcastically. Even knowing it was meant in jest, the gesture was enough to make the Nuvelle smile. Truly, she was blessed with the friends she made. On that topic… "Should we wait for Yuri-bird?"
The two turned to the de-facto leader of the Ashen Wolves, seeing him being helped up by the man that ran him into the ground. Constance shook herself free from the spell, some sort of heat certainly getting to her. She felt damp, and not from her sweat. As much as it was uncomfortable to wear such a long and weighty dress in the summer months, right now, she sure was thankful that she did.
"He will be fine. Knowing him, he might wish to have a word with the Professor, and you know how he can be when he starts to run that mouth of his. Come now, Hapi, let us be off."
Constance had seen more than enough to gauge his skill, to deem him somewhat competent of being in charge of her education. That said, she felt as though she hadn't seen enough of him, wishing to now evaluate more of him…of his capabilities, that is. Nothing else. A nagging feeling irked at her. Perhaps she had seen too much?
That nagging feeling she felt persisted, it seems. To put it bluntly, Constance was exceedingly frustrated. As she sat in class, staring at her professor, she found herself stewing in vexation. His hand moved across the chalkboard, leaving behind notes and depictions of the lesson he spoke, all of which were things she should be writing down. But in truth, she didn't hear him speak, and rather than focus on what he wrote, her attention moved from his hands to his arms, picturing them bare. She could still see them as they were the day before, the defined muscle of perfect size and hardness. Or, at least, she could only imagine how hard it would be. Of how hard he would be.
It was moments like this, when a crude thought would cross her mind, that she turned to look away, what little notes she did scribble were only written when she managed to wrangle herself from such thoughts. Needless to say, her notes were rather lacking. In truth, if she were to review them, she would not know what they had learned in class this day at all. Or rather, what she didn't learn, what with her being so invested in her daydreams of the Professor's chiseled body pressed against hers in their most intimate of moments-
She scratched away at the paper before her, copying what she could retain of the lesson he spoke, she not daring to look up lest she find herself lost in thoughts of him again.
Constance was extremely frustrated. To put it bluntly, in more ways than one. She was frustrated that she was so distracted, but also, frustrated in another sense, the kind of sense that made no sense. He's a commoner! You're a Nuvelle! Don't you forget it!
It made no sense for her to think of him the way she was. He was not worthy of one of her status! …or rather, of someone that once held such status, her house having fallen from such heights.
Oh! And of course, not to mention, their relationship as student and mentor! It made little sense, if any at all, for her to be attracted to such a man at all!
She peeked up. Byleth made some motions, an arc. The projection of a catapult, perhaps? She knew not. What she did know, however, was the placement of the scars on his arm, the same arm that moved in such motions. That knowledge, unlike that which he taught, seemed to be burnt into her memory.
She absentmindedly traced the illustration on the board, not knowing what it was meant to represent, and only really getting every other thing he said. In truth, her notes were utterly lacking. Good thing for her, however, Constance's professor was one of the good ones, always having time for his students. She had no doubt in her mind that, should she ask for his assistance outside class hours, he'd fill her-
Fill her in!
That is to say, fill in any gaps she had about the material! What with her seeming to be too far occupied with rather scandalous thoughts.
That said, however, if he were to tutor her privately, she wouldn't necessarily be opposed to him helping her with other gaps that needed to be filled.
She felt her cheeks burn as she looked down at her paper. Looking up to the diagram on the board, she realized he had moved on from what he had previously been talking about, the rather flustered Nuvelle having seemed to lost time.
Speaking of time, she could only wonder how much longer they had in the day, the blonde feeling very much like she needed to lie down back in the privacy of her room. Or what little privacy she got in the Abyssian's shared accommodations, that is. Truthfully, though, once under her covers, it'd be private enough. She squirmed in her seat, thighs rubbing together.
Oh, Goddess! How much longer till this lesson ends! She could only pray it was sooner rather than later.
Class finally let out…three hours later. To Constance, what with being oh so distracted and trapped in her own head, it was a sort of hell. When she would stare at Byleth, it was as if time passed by in the blink of an eye. This came at a cost, however, as she found herself lost in rather solacious thoughts. It had upset her, the things she thought up. How disgraceful of she to even fantasize such lewd thoughts. You are better than this, she would think, act like it!
And she would, for a time. But this too had a price; keeping herself steady to what was prim and proper seemed to make time go even slower. The worst part about it was that she had taken nothing from the lecture. When she tried to pay attention, she found herself far too distracted. To keep from the immodest thoughts, she had to distract herself from her distractions. That is to say, she fought to keep her mind off him.
He, being her teacher.
He having called for her to stay after class. To hear him ask for her presence struck her with a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. Excitement from her more sordid of thoughts; Oh my, he wants me-wants to see me so soon? How forward! To anxious; Am I ready for this? Am I truly going through with this? There was even fear; He didn't notice the shameful way I've been acting, had he? To, of course, even offended. A commoner like him is asking to see me!? Does he not know his place!?
But, of course, her pride had won out. It almost always won out. Hmph! I suppose I should grace him with my presence!
And so, as the rest of the students flitted out, free from lectures and lessons, she remained. It was only once all others left and the two were truly along that she stood, clearing her throat. "You wished to see the great Constance Von Nuvelle, yes? Go on, speak."
"Yes," he said, ignoring the superiority in her tone. Having worked at cleaning the blackboard, he turned to her, Constance standing before him with her chest puffed out, the haughty airs she always seemed to exude were somewhat off. It was something to do with her eyes, the way they seemed to find interest in everything else but his own. It was proper to hold eye contact when speaking to someone. Constance not only embodied proper etiquette, but she was rather a stickler for it, in fact, much to the chagrin of her compatriots. It wasn't just that she refused to look at him, however, it was the way her gaze darted to and fro, as if she were scared or uncomfortable.
A slight frown made its presence known on his lips. Well, this was a reason why he asked her to stay, after all. Not one to mince words, or rather, not knowing how, he started.
"Are you well, Constance?"
"Am I…well?" Constance smiled, or tried to, at least, wishing to not show any discomfort. But it was clear just how uncomfortable she was, her smile anything but natural. This only made Byleth's displeasure more evident, and in turn, feeding into the usually confident young woman's anxiety.
"I've noticed that you have been seeming off the past couple of days." Drat! Had he noticed!? How will I ever live this down!? Internally, she was panicking, holding her faltering smile. "Both yesterday at the training grounds, and today in class. Are you ill, by any chance?"
"Ha, ah, that," she chuckled unconvincingly, having to clear her throat. "I greatly appreciate the concern, but you've no need to worry. It merely seems that this heat does not agree well with me, is all." Her smile twitched slightly, hoping, no, praying to the goddess above that he accepted her rather flimsy excuse.
But from the way he looked, well, it didn't seem the Goddess had heard her request, Byleth seeming totally unconvinced. To be fair, however, the man gave very little away what with his stony façade. Her hands balled into fists. Maybe, just maybe, perhaps he bought it…right?
She felt a stone fall in the pit of her stomach as the blue-haired man gave a deep sigh. She seemed to deflate slightly, her shoulders slouching ever so slightly. But if the minute of changes in his features spoke measures of the stony-faced professor, the same could be said, if not more so, for Constance's dip in posture.
His eyes darted to her shoulders taking note of the small action. He merely shook his head, causing the once-was-noble to drop her head in shame. It's all over…he knows…
Another curve ball was thrown her way, however, as he spoke up. "I will take your word for it." Wait, did he…believe her? "It seems as if there is something else bothering you, but…I won't press you for it. Take care of yourself, and if need be, please see Manuela if you require any medical assistance." She looked up to him, eyes bright and surprised. She finally holding his gaze was enough for him to give the smallest of smiles. "And if there is anything that I can do for you, don't hesitate to ask." Constance felt her heart skip a beat.
There is plenty that you could assist me with, she thought, having to chase the thoughts that would come. She closed her eyes, taking a deep breath, and once she opened them, that glint of supremacy was back. "I very much appreciate that, thank you. It has been…a rather rough transition since coming up from the Abyss, but, alas, it is nothing that someone like I wouldn't be able to handle. I am a Nuvelle, after all!" The smirk she gave was arrogant, but it was also genuine and warm. It was the real Constance, Byleth thought, and in return, he could only return a smile.
It seems they had both seen a part of each other very rarely shown; his being emotional, and her being somewhat vulnerable. Regardless, he was her teacher, and even now, he had a job to do. "I have no doubt in that, Constance. Even still, if you feel yourself stagger, I, and many others, will help you find your footing once again."
"Oh? So you think yourself worthy to help me find my footing once more in court, do you? And what, pray tell, is someone like you able to offer to help me raise my once noble house back to its former glory, hmm?" She meant to say it in jest, but with her tonr, it certainly didn't seem like it. Regardless, Byleth responded.
"Nothing that you yourself aren't able to accomplish without my help," he retorted. Oh, so he can banter as well as be perceptive? My, what a peculiarly complex man he is turning out to be.
He was not at all like how she imagined him. When she had heard Byleth was once a mercenary, she thought the worst of him, preconceived images of a dirty brute came to mind. And then to hear of his reputation, it all seemed like he would be the last person she'd ever wish to meet. But Constance found herself pleasantly surprised how he turned out. He was nothing like what she envisioned him to be, and after seeing him yesterday in action, she just knew that he was everything she wanted him to be.
As my educator, of course she had to reaffirm herself.
"Of course," she smiled. "But, I daresay, I must admit that I am surprised at just how chivalrous you are. Though considering who your father is, I suppose it makes a great deal of sense. And to think I let silly rumors get to me, how uncouth! Despite what everyone may say, I know you to be a man of class." Her smile widened. It was rare for her to praise another so wholeheartedly. But perhaps, it was praise better left unsaid. Or at least, it would've been better to word it different.
What little of a smile that graced Byleth's lips seemed to dissipate as his brow quirked in serious question. "And what does everyone say?" Ah, did I…perhaps hit a sore spot?
She waved him off, "Nothing worth you fretting over, please, heed it no mind," she tried to chuckle, tried to lighten the mood, but admittedly, she was not the best at such delicate social situations.
"Constance." There was a bit of force in his tone, enough to make Constance stop her charade and swallow the lump at her throat.
She gave a sigh before starting. "Your reputation of 'The Ashen Demon' proceeds you, you know." At the mention of the moniker, a frown found his lips once more, this one softer. He wasn't angry, but rather…Is he…perhaps, sad?
"I see," he stated plainly. "I suppose it does." The tension between the two hung awkwardly in the air. To be honest, Constance didn't know how best to navigate this situation. Think, Constance, how would Hapi cheer you up?
Coming to her 'Aha!' moment, the blonde stepped forward without hesitation, placing a hand at his shoulder. It was meant to be a comforting gesture, although, in all honesty, Constance very much preferred others to not touch her. But there were exceptions for everything.
Sometimes, just knowing a friend was there was all one needed. "As I have said, it is nothing to fret about! Yes, you may be feared, but honestly, to hear the tales told, they are all too blown out of proportion for any one man. You needn't worry once bit!"
He turned to her, their eyes locking. It was only then that Constance noticed just how close they were, her heart rate speeding up.
"And you aren't…scared of me?" he asked.
She just guffawed at this. "On the contrary," she tried to explain, "it is the opposite! It is rather comforting to know one of your expertise is teaching us! While I may have preferred a higher social standing initially, what you are able to offer us in your lessons goes beyond the pale. You are truly invaluable to us students."
He could only quirk a brow somewhat in surprise. He treaded carefully about his past, clearly drawing from the experiences, but, he always worried, deep down, of what he once was affecting how his student's saw him today. Both he and his father were greatly surprised at seeing how he took to his new role, thriving in it and the purpose it gave him.
"So…my reputation holds no weight to you, then."
"No, 'The Ashen Demon' holds no sway in my heart." But the man behind the name seems to. "But who it does hold investment with is your foes. You are feared due to your prowess. Is that not a compliment? You are so fierce and skilled a warrior that others have spawned tall tales of your accomplishments. In a way, it is what I wish to one day achieve."
Byleth gave a dry chuckle, his monotonous tone doing no favors for him, but it was very clear that it was genuine. "You wish to be feared?"
"Well, not necessarily! Rather, I wish to be remembered! I am a Nuvelle, The Last Nuvelle, I must accomplish something, must find some way to find standings once more in the nobility! Because if I don't, then…then my house ends with me…" The usually boisterous lady quieted.
It seems the two went in circles, lifting each other up, Byleth mused. And now it was his turn once more. "I've not known you long but, what I do I know is that you are someone capable of accomplishing that, Constance. And I, as your teacher, will do whatever I can to help. You just say the word, and I will be there."
The smile she gave to him was light and innocent. Her usually sharp eyes seemed to soften, her barriers having been lowered. She found herself very much trusting him. His words not only brought comfort, but they stoked confidence in her. As she stared into his eyes, she found herself falling for him- falling in them, in his eyes, their color solid and vibrant, a deep blue like the ocean.
"Ahem," he cleared his throat, knocking her back to reality. Her cheeks reddened, realizing that she had spent a time peering deep into his gaze. He most certainly knows now! "Constance?"
"Y-yes!?" she stuttered. Not good! She tried to pivot back to her usual speaking ways, looking to save face. "Is there anything else I may do for you, Professor Eisner?"
This caused him to raise his brow again, this time not in confusion, but questioningly. "I was to ask you the same thing," he said plainly. Where it was subtle, the way he expressed confusion with his features, it was much clearer on Constance's face, she not knowing what he meant whatsoever.
It became clearly evident when he darted his eyes down and to the side, motioning for her to follow. And so, she turned her gaze, only to see…her hand still on his shoulder. Had it been there this entire time! And even after the conversation's end!?
Without realizing it, she had been feeling his broad shoulder throughout their interaction, squeezing it, and rubbing it slightly. She did it all absentmindedly, but now that her attention was drawn to it, she could feel his firmness in her touch. She snatched her hand away, clearly embarrassed but trying desperately to hold any semblance of face.
She coughed, looking to clear her throat, looking for anyway to talk her way out of her strange behavior. But nothing came to mind, and so…she coughed again. And again. And again, all as if trying to buy time for something, anything, to come, but nothing ever did. And so, she panicked.
"Ah, I am terribly sorry, Professor *coughcough* but, it seems as though *cough* I might need Professor Manuela after all!" And with one last fit of coughs, she took off, bolting out the classroom door, face beet red.
Byleth was left standing there, unsure of what had just happened. After a moment to collect himself, he decided there was nothing to do about it, and instead, turned his attention to something he could do.
Plan for their next lesson.
Some time had passed since their last encounter, with Constance deciding the most modest thing to do regarding her rather improper behavior was to simply act as if nothing had happened. To her surprise, it worked! Or rather, Byleth just didn't press her for an explanation. In truth, she didn't know if he had bought her rather spur-of-the-moment excuse or if he was just being considerate himself. It somewhat vexed her, in all honesty. She didn't need to know what he thought of her, but she would very much like to know that he didn't think anything uncouth of her.
Besides, such thoughts were her thing, as it were. She had been able to control herself more as of late, able to see him and not be losing herself in a daze at his muscled form having been permanently etched in her mind. Now better able to focus on her work, it was rather nice, things going back to the way they were.
Other than her longings, that is.
It became evidently clear that she was falling for the man. Maybe not romantically (at least, she didn't think it was romantic) but most certainly she was physically. He had his own sort of grace about him, each of his movements were precise and measured, whether it be in his writing on the board or demonstrating an action with weapon in hand. Combined with that, there was also his physique. Rugged and rough, and, from what she remembered of feeling him up, firm. He was handsome enough, and with that piercing gaze, it all tied up into one neat package.
She could see now why so many girls in the Abyss (and men as well) seemed to swoon over Yuri, Constance now finding the appeal in a more roguish cut. No, not roguish. He may have been a mercenary once, but now, he was a teacher.
From the image of his chiseled and scarred build, Constance knew that his lot in life forged the very body of the man she drooled over. He no longer ran around in the mud but found himself teaching in an esteemed institute. Perhaps commoners clean up more than one would expect, she mused.
Yes. Not roguish, he was far too composed now. Perhaps at one point, but he was no mere sell-sword anymore. In a way, it was the best of both worlds. Strength and skill and power, all from his upbringing, now in a presentation far more suitable for the Nuvelle.
With class ending soon and Constance in thought of her teacher's allures, she hurriedly finished taking down the notes on the board, her thighs rubbing together as she squirmed slightly. Such thoughts she had were dangerous, as dangerous as he was, should the rumors of his reputation be believed in. But in truth, that just added kindle to the fire.
She was certainly doing better keeping things in line, the trick to keeping her mind in check was to simply not check out Byleth (or at least not as much as she would prefer to, anyway). She had to watch herself lest she become an embarrassing mess once more. Hmph! 'Tis an easy task for one such as myself! As long as nothing unexpected arises, I can go forth without fear of another incident!
The bells rang, signaling the end of their school day. As everyone began to stand up and pack their belonging's Byleth raised his voice to be heard over the bustle.
"And don't forget the outing we have planned this weekend! It shouldn't be particularly difficult, but a battle is a battle."
Wait…an outing? When was this determined! Racking her mind, she couldn't recall. Perhaps it was something he said while she was elsewhere in her mind? She didn't know, but from the response that many students gave, whether it be directed to him or comments made amongst themselves, it was clear this was something discussed well ahead of time. Had she really just missed that crucial information?
Wait…an outing!? Her thoughts now more alarmed. As in, outside! In daylight!
A woman of lesser standing's mind would immediately freak out and have a long inner monologue filled with many colorful expletives and profanities. But she was a Nuvelle! Being much more composed of mind she instead said a silent prayer to the goddess…before then divulging into panic.
Ah, so this is how it ends.
It was supposed to be a relatively simple objective. Their class was dispatched on behalf of the monastery to route the bandits causing havoc in Adrestian land. More specifically, a relatively small village in the countryside. And in truth, it was rather simple, the bandits proving no real threat.
In the end, there was little to really worry over, their skills lacking to such an extent that it was no wonder why the Monastery would dispatch students to take care of them rather than the Knights of Seiros. It could be said they were hardly worth their time. 'But a battle is a battle', Byleth's words echoed. Oh, how foolish she was not to heed them more.
Such were the thoughts of Constance as she lay in the sun, bleeding heavily. How deserved for one like me, she thought, how very fitting for one so reprehensible. 'Pride commeth before the fall,' yes…it was only a matter of time. As her eyes closed, she could hear them, the many cruel words she slung to friend and ally. Even the tone she had used, dripped with so much self-importance that it was almost sickening if it weren't so damn aggravating.
Such was how the lowly member of a bygone house to act. One could only pray others would shed a tear for them once they were gone, but now, laying in the sun, feeling her consciousness slip away, she knew no one would miss her. Not with how she treated them.
But that didn't mean she couldn't shed a tear for them.
If she strained herself, she could still hear Hapi calling out to her with that ridiculous name. No, not ridiculous. How dare you think that of something precious someone gave you?
"-co! Coco! Wake up!"
Hapi's voice was growing louder, as if calling her back from the beyond. Oh, what Constance wouldn't give to know it was true, to be able to see her friend once more.
Oh. Opening her eyes, she was met with the worried expression of Hapi as the girl leaned over the fallen noble. "Oh, thank whomever that damn church prays to, you're alive." Hapi had to hold back her sigh of relief, a task that seemed physically hard for the worried wolf.
"Ah, my dear friend…" Constance's voice was low as she reached up, Hapi taking her hand. "I am afraid for not much longer, but I am pleased to be able to see you one last time."
"For not much longer? Coco, what are you talking about?" the dark-skinned girl's brow furrowed.
"It seems this is the end. I can only thank the Goddess above that one so undeserving as I may be allowed to say my goodbyes…"
"Coco, stop-"
"There is no stopping it, I am afraid. What a foolish life I have led, but finally, I am where I belong, bleeding out in the mud, a suitable place for one such as myself."
"No, Coco, stop, you're-"
Hapi was quickly cut off again as Byleth knelt down beside her, Constance's attention quickly turning to him. "Good Professor," she had begun, "I am sorry…sorry for not listening closer to your lessons…for not respecting you as much as I should have…for-" she was quickly distracted by Byleth peeling off his shirt, exposing his torso once more, this time in much closer proximity. "…for eyeing you up." This caused him to suddenly stop, both he and the redhead's eyes widening at her confession.
"Uh…Coco, you might want to-"
"No, Hapi, I must…there is no way for me to atone for the transgressions I have done against you, Professor, but, if I were to die, I want you to know how terribly sorry I am…one such as me doesn't deserve to be in your presence, let alone behold your exquisite form. Even now, it feels so unjust that I be treated to…to…this!" her fingers reached out, gliding over his rock-hard abs. "I know it to be true, that such opportunities were wasted on one as deplorable as I..."
"Coco, seriously, you are going to be okay-"
'My sweet Hapi," the blonde continued, "truly, one so lowly as I was blessed to be counted as one of your friends."
Hapi could only nod to this. "Well, you're not wrong, but-"
"Worry not, I shall be gone soon, and you will be free of my presence…all I can do now is apologize for how horridly I have treated you…but you have always been…my greatest friend."
"Constance." The Professor's tone was calm and stern, perfectly suited to a man of his stature. Always even, always sharp. Always toned. Her eyes went from his abs to his eyes. He applied pressure to her head, his shirt soaking up as much of the blood as it could. "Head wounds, even when nonserious, bleed a lot. It just looks a lot worse than it really is. You are going to be fine."
Constance could only stare glumly to her teacher. A quiet huh escaping her lips in question. Looking to her friend, the other Ashen Wolf only nodded in agreement. "So…I'm going to be okay?" The two nodded once more. "But…I feel as though I am fading away…the lethargy, how can it be…?"
"Coco, you're in the sun…"
"You also might have a concussion," the two had said.
During their excursion, Constance fell from grace in the most literal of definitions. That was to say, while there was little risk to be had against their outmatched opponents, a stray arrow narrowly missing Constance's Pegasus was enough to send the creature wild. While normally a proficient rider will calm their steed, being in the sun had taken its toll on the once-was-noble. A loose grip was all it took for the house of Nuvelle to fall for a second time.
In truth, the injuries she sustained were not at all serious, white magic in the field being more than enough to heal what she had. But now, in the confines of her room, away from the sun and back to her full mental faculties, Constance wished that she had succumbed in the battle.
To have been so melodramatic, to have voiced her audacious thoughts of Byleth, to take advantage of the situation to feel him up, especially in front of her friend!
If Sothis truly existed, she would take pity on Constance and strike her down so that she wouldn't have to live in shame ever again. The fact that she still breathed just went to show that the Goddess was cruel. As much of a blasphemous thought it was, Constance could only loathe the creator. Why, she might be laughing at my suffering! (And she was.)
It went without saying that Constance had decided not to attend class this otherwise fine day. Having tossed and turned all night long, she had not gotten a wink of sleep, using that as a flimsy excuse to skip. That said, the one she tried to sell this to was Hapi, the girl who was there when it all happened. The girl who knew, what had all happened. Needless to say, the redhead didn't buy it at all but understood nonetheless and decided not to push her humiliated friend. That is not to say she didn't get some jabs in here and there before she left, however, but that was neither here nor there.
And so, Constance lay in bed. At times, absolutely drained of all energy, and at others, fretting to the point where she couldn't sit still. The scene kept replaying itself in her head, flip-flopping between sheer shame, absolutely mortified at what her 'other self' did, and more heated thoughts, she getting sidetracked at recalling the touch of his body.
At least the Goddess allowed me that much…
Although she tried her best to rest, having hidden herself away from the world, she only took breaks between episodes of worrying to sulk beneath her covers. This cycle seeming to repeat until, before she knew it, hours had passed. A knock at the door caught her off guard, even though knew to expect it. Is it truly lunchtime already? She could only sigh, getting out of bed. Still in her nightgown, she was grumpy, hair disheveled, and mood absolutely foul.
Shaking her head, she reached for the door handle. "As much as I appreciate the thought, Hapi, I'm afraid I'm in no real mood to…eat…" she went quiet at having opened the door. Where she was expecting to find her friend bringing her a meal as she had said she would, Constance instead found Byleth. "Y-you-!" she stuttered out. Her heavy eyes sped up, trying to process just why he was there, darting from his eyes to his body (stop it!) to then turn on herself and the state she was in.
She shrieked slightly, catching the normally stoic man off guard as she slammed the door in his face, her own burning. I can't believe he has seen me in such an immodest state! I'm not dressed. She quickly flung herself beneath her covers, hiding her reddened features from the world. She heard him from the other side of the door call out.
"Sorry to drop in unexpected…I just wanted to check on you…" She was panicking. She didn't know what to do, what to say. So, it seems without a response, he took that as a sign to continue. "Look…I know what happened yesterday might be uncomfortable to talk about, but, Hapi told me-" That traitor!
"Don't speak of such matters openly!" she yelled out, her voice obviously muffled to him just as his words strained to reach her.
"Pardon?"
UGH! "Just-! Come inside to speak!" she shouted.
There was silence for a moment. She started to think he couldn't hear her, but just before she was about to stick her head out from her blanket, she could hear the door open. And a moment later, it closed. Now they could talk in peace, not needing to shout so that all of Abyss would hear her woes.
Then realization struck, Constance's eyes widening in horror. Byleth was in her room with her. And they were alone. Her mouth suddenly went dry. "Constance?" he started; she trembles in turn. This just suddenly became all the more real. She dared not peek out.
All the while, Byleth was, himself, rather uncomfortable. It was clear the girl was rather embarrassed at her little episode as it were, but…being the one on the receiving end of it, he was also taken aback. He knew of Constance's quirks, of how she was when she was in the sun, but the rather incriminating confession of hers seemed to leave them both in a weird state.
Moving a chair to her bedside, he sat, heaving a sigh, utterly unsure of himself. He spent his entire life fighting in a mercenary group, leading others, and now, in this situation, he was at a loss. All he knew was he needed to do something, but what, he didn't know. Teaching was rather difficult, so, he worked hard to be proficient enough to be able to do his job. But he couldn't exactly prepare to deal with…well, whatever this was.
What with how he was, people never really came to him with emotional issues. This was just too far above his pay grade. Nevertheless, this too came with the territory, or so Seteth would tell him. 'A teacher's duty is not just to educate but to assist in their student's personal growth as well.' Whatever problems he had with Byleth, Seteth was nothing if not professional, something Byleth was ever grateful for.
The man cleared his throat, just looking to get this over with. "Constance?" his voice was much lower in tone, softer, as he spoke to the bundle on the bed. "I understand that what had happened was…I honestly don't understand it, but, I do know that it's fine."
"How can you say it's fine? It isn't fine at all!" the lump called out, shifting slightly. "My actions were so disgraceful! I've tainted my family's name!"
Byleth could only scratch the back of his head. He knew the girl was rather…dramatic, but even still. "Can you please come out? We should really discuss this face to face."
"I am not in a presentable state! It would be unfitting for you to see me as I am!"
"But…you opened the door all the way…I've already seen you and, it's not nearly as bad as you think. Besides, haven't you seen me in more of a state of undress?"
Part of Constance wanted to argue against him. There was a huge difference between her seeing him and he having seen her, that being their status and their gender. But…he was right. She opened the door expecting Hapi. He's seen her in her sleeping attire. There is no point in hiding it, just like there was no point in hiding what she had done, what she feels. Steeling herself, she sat up, discarding her cover.
She sat on her bed, covered well enough by a long white nightgown with purple trim. She was well enough modest, but, even still, she felt not up to her usual standards. He could only nod, ready to get to the conversation that was to be had.
"I understand that you might be feeling…upset, but-"
She scoffed, cutting him off. "You? How could you possibly understand? I have spent the better part of my life trying to reclaim my family's honor and now…how could I possibly do that? It's all over…" she looked away, lips trembling.
"I really don't think its as serious as you think."
"Of course you don't! You are a commoner, you've no idea the expectations I must face!"
"But isn't it standard to feel the things you feel?" Huh? That certainly caught her off guard. Turning to him, the face she made must have told him she didn't understand, prompting him to continue. In truth, he didn't really want to, he shifting in his seat, but he went ahead with it anyway. "You are…at an age where, such thoughts are only natural…when two people-"
"NO!" she all but screeched, face burning bright. "We are not having this conversation! I am well enough versed in the subject of such matters that I don't need you of all people to tell me about the birds and the bees!" There was an indescribable humiliation mixed with her anger. But Byleth could only sigh in response, well and truly relieved.
"Oh, thank goodness," he spoke, deflating a bit in his chair, having been clearly rigid before. "I did not expect, nor want, to have such a conversation."
"Then why did you…oh." It suddenly struck her just how he might be feeling about her actions. So far, she's only been thinking of herself, of what her actions meant for her, not once thinking of the position she had put him in. He's her teacher. Not only that, this was only his first year teaching. She had caused him a lot of trouble, guilt now overtaking her as she drooped her head, frustrated with herself. And now, here she was, skipping classes.
"You are a young woman. I shouldn't have to speak to you about such things. But also, you shouldn't have to hear that they are natural. But because of your…circumstances that day, I know it was…not ideal, to say the least." She only nodded. He wasn't scolding her but it still felt like he was talking down to her. She was a woman grown, and he spoke to her like a child. But with how she acted, it made sense. He even commentated on it. "We're both adults here, so, there is no reason we both can't be mature about this and just…move past it, correct?"
She nodded, agreeing with him. At least, in theory she did. Words are one thing, but how she felt was another, it being overwhelming. "I-I suppose you are correct. Very well, then, I shall try to move past this."
"That's all we can do," he responded. "I get that you might need some time to process everything but, I do hope you come back to class soon. And, if there is anything I can do to help you, well…as I've said before, you need only say."
She harumphed. "While I appreciate the offer, I will be fine. I feel as though I just…need to get this out of my system is all. There is nothing you can do about it, not unless you mean to let me at your chest." She laughed. Or at least tried to. The words spilled from her mouth before her brain could register just what it was she was saying, Constance trying to put on a brave and self-assured face, only for it to backfire as it dawned on her the weight of her words. An awkward stillness filled the air, Constance panicking silently as she turned away, unable to look at the man.
Byleth also turned away. A bit from shock, yes, but something, or rather someone drew his attention elsewhere. Didn't you literally just say you would do anything to help your dear little student? The green haired spirit gave a Cheshire smile, knowing that only Byleth could see or hear her. Well go on then, are you not a man of your word? Sothis giggled.
Gritting his teeth, Byleth stood, his sudden movements catching Constance off guard, scaring her. "Very well," he muttered, "if its to help you move on, then…I suppose I have little choice."
"Wha- No, you needn't…needn't…oh." Her refusals trailed off as she was met with his bare body, finding herself mesmerized. From where she sat, she was right in front of the goods, her hands reaching out on their own. Just before her fingertips made contact, she fought back, recoiling slightly as she looked up to him. Her eyes widened as she saw the blush in his cheeks as he nodded, unable to meet her eyes. Seeing the ever-stoic Byleth looking shy, she felt her heart skip a beat. She gulped audibly.
Cautiously, she proceeded, her fingers once more meeting with his abs, this time, she of enough mind to relish in the action. This is crazy! I shoudn't be doing this! She thought but continued on anyway. Well, if he is insistent upon it then…it would be rude to refuse, especially when he just wishes to help, right?
She traced the ridges in his body, circling each ab, the Professor trying his best not to react but failing. The way her skin would glide over his sent little shivers up his spine, he having to close his eyes at the sensation of her indulgences.
She found great interest in his scars, tracing them lightly. She had heard knights call scars 'badges of honor' and she never truly understood the meaning in it. Even still she didn't, but, she was starting to see the appeal of them. Something about them made him seem so much…more. More stronger, more rougher, more hardened, more…more…irresistible. She had only removed a hand long enough to wipe away the drool at her lips, she falling further and further into a trance.
Her exploration drew her upwards, her fingers spreading out until her palm met muscle, her hand flat against his chiseled body. She applied pressure, pressing into his hardness as she felt up his pecs. But then, something wretched her from her daze, Constance having noticed something. Or rather, noticing the lack of something.
"What the…"
Byleth looked down, only to see her interest focused on his chest. Oh. He honestly didn't think about it, his lack of heartbeat. He knew it wasn't normal, but, for him never having had one, it was his normal. He opened his mouth, willing to explain as best he could.
But he didn't get the chance, the now curious Nuvelle sitting up on her knees as she leaned forward, pressing her ear to his chest inquisitively. Her warm breath tickled his skin, sending another shiver. It was getting perhaps a bit too much, Byleth unconsciously trying to back up. Maybe it was divine intervention from a little minx, maybe it was just him being flustered, or maybe it was just bad luck, but regardless, that seemed to be the wrong move, Byleth losing his balance.
With her position, having leant out of bed and into his chest, as the object of her lusts seemed to stumble backwards, with nothing to support her, she ended up following him as they went to the ground.
And with that, House Nuvelle fell for a third time.
This time, however, having someone underneath to break her fall. Now, fully pressed against his form, able to feel his hot body against her own, Constance could only thank Sothis above for this opportunity. As enthralling as it may have been, however, it wouldn't do to stay in this position. Even with the understanding the two had come to, Constance felt she needed to at least try to act with some modesty. And so, after a moment that perhaps lasted a little longer than needed, she pushed herself up from him, apologizing. Byleth thanking her, hoping it was over, but, he knew it wasn't. Afterall, there was a reason he tried to get away from her in the first place, her ministrations across his body having had an effect on him.
And then she felt it. Having pushed herself up, she was now straddling him, and felt a different sort of hardness than the one she was just essentially drooling over. No, this can't possibly be…can it? She shifted slightly in his lap, Byleth's breath hitching in response. Realization struck her on just what she was on. It was no muscle, that was for sure. I take back every bad thought I had of you, Goddess!
"C-Constance…can you-"
"Can I what, hmm? You think you are in any position to ask something of me?" There was a giddiness to the way her lips curled as she looked down on Byleth. "But, because I am so generous, I will hear your plea out! Be grateful!"
"Constance, please-!" he was cut off by a heavy groan, Constance taking the opportunity to grind her hips into his, truly getting a feel of him through the fabric of her gown.
"P-please what?" her own voice was shaky, her actions not only arousing him but stirring something within her as well. It was crazy, it was immodest, but more than anything it was hot. And worst yet, it fed into itself, the friction just making her want more. She could feel him, and it made her wildly excited. Modesty be damned, she was in control right now.
And so, she took charge, keeping up the simple motion, riding him over his clothes. "Does whatever you want from me-ah- have anything to do with this?" She accentuated her question with her hips, her voice breathy as the situation became overwhelming to her. Byleth just looked up to her, glassy-eyed. He might not want to admit it, what with him being her teacher and all, but it was clear from his crumbling expression that he was giving into this as well. Knowing that, it just fed into her superiority complex.
"It does, doesn't it," it was less a question and more a statement as she leaned forward, hands on his chest resuming their initial goal of feeling him up. His mouth opened, gasping lightly as she placed her lips airily over his non-beating heart, going so far as to express the desire she felt with a kiss. His reactions only made her smirk as she pushed herself up to his ear. "You needn't lie, professor," she purred. It had the intended affect, the first time she ever having called him by his title in such an intimate setting, it made the whole thing more scandalous. After all, she was his student.
But more than that, she was also right. Whether it be to himself or to her, to go so far as say he wasn't enjoying this would be an out-and-out lie. The once was mercenary, feared by all who opposed him, now trembled underneath an unraveled Constance. As hard as his body was, as hard as he was, in this moment, he was nothing more than puddy in her hands.
She gave him no room to respond as she continued on, her hot breath tickling his ear as Constance pushed him on. "I already know, so there's no point in even trying." She stuck her tongue out, licking his neck and causing the man to shudder. "This," she gyrated her hips, "is all for me, isn't it?"
"I-I-" he was a stuttering mess.
"You want me, don't you?" Constance licked her lips, the Ashen Wolf staring down her prey.
Byleth swallowed, forcing down in the lump in his throat as he came to terms with his urges. "Y-yes," he fought to lean up, his hands reaching for her, looking to wrap around her waist. "I want-"
But before he could embrace her, the door suddenly opened, the crash cutting off the confession Constance was about to wring from him.
"Hey Coco, sorry it took so long, but I got…you…lunch…"
Hapi stared at the two with blank eyes and tight lips. Clearly, she had walked in at an inopportune time. For them, anyway, for me, this was probably the best timing imaginable.
"Ah- Hapi! My, dear, sweet Hapi, this is…not what it looks like?" The usual Constance confidence was nowhere to be found in her tone as she tried (and failed) to reassure her friend it was a misunderstanding, her hands detaching from their professor as she flailed them about as if that would help.
"Uh huh," the redhead replied, looking down at the two in their compromising position on the floor. Despite not wearing a smile, Hapi was truly giddy. And the two could see it in her eyes, they both knowing there was nothing they could say to her. There was no sweeping this under the rug.
And so, without another word, Hapi slowly backed out of the room, closing the door softly, leaving Byleth and Constance to resume their activities. Not that they could, of course, they both being far too flustered. The last thing Hapi saw as she closed the door was both of their horrified faces, both glowing a bright beet red.
Hope you all enjoyed that lengthy chapter, and a very thirsty Constance.
Next chapter will of course be scheduled for next month, so I'll see you guys then.
Until next time.