Part 1: White Clouds

Tales of Garreg Mach

"It's got to be around here somewhere. Come on, come on, where did I put it?"

Jeralt was out next to a flowing river with the moon shining down on him as he rummaged through a rucksack, checking it's contents. He and his band of Mercenaries known as the 'Blade Breakers' had taken shelter in a little village. Remire Village to be exact. This was a place they went to many times to rest up before taking on new contracts, but tonight was different. They were here simply to relax and have fun.

But Jeralt wanted to get a spot of fishing done with this moment of peace that was bestowed upon him. Usually he would get Byleth to come with him. But tonight was different. She was asleep tonight.

Or at least, she was supposed to be.

"Father, you forgot your fishing rod."

He turned around, surprised that Byleth was still up and extending a fishing rod towards him. He smiled and walked over to her, taking it out of her hands and ruffled her hair. "Thanks kid. But you should be sleeping. Why are you up?"

"I apologise." Byleth said, bowing to her father. "When you were leaving, I saw that you had left it. I will be returning to my bed now."

"Alright kid, have a good sleep." Jeralt replied still looking through his bags.

But that's when he heard Byleth speak again. "Amazing. I've never seen the full moon before. It's beautiful."

Jeralt just chuckled. "Yeah the full moon is a great sight-"

Wait.

The full moon?

That's when he remembered something Sitri told him back when she was alive. Something that slipped out of his mind. Something very, VERY important.

"When a Saiyan looks at the full moon, they become the mighty Oozaru." Sitri said while sipping her tea. "A powerful beast who destroys everything in it's wake."

"Jeez, that sounds scary." Jeralt muttered. "Should we be worried about you?"

"Don't be silly." Sitri replied, waving a hand dismissively. "I know not to look at it. You don't need to worry about me transforming. Besides, I know how to control the form. The biggest danger is a Saiyan who has never done it before. Because they lose their mind."

Shit.

Shit! Shit! Shit!

"Kid! Kid! Don't look at it!" Jeralt yelled sprinting towards Byleth who was just standing there, staring up at the moon.

"Byleth! Are you listening?! Take your eyes off of it!"

He screamed her name again and grabbed her shoulders to turn her around, but he gasped when he saw what happened.

Byleth was just standing there. Twitching. Her mouth slightly agape. But what was even more terrifying were her eyes. Instead of her usual sapphire blue colour, they were now a hollow pink. Even her pupils. Like she was possessed.

Jeralt realised at that moment that he couldn't stop this from happening. There was really one thing he could do at this point.

Warn the village and get them out of there.

"I'm sorry kid…"

With that, he started sprinting to Remire Village as Byleth's eyes then turned blood red and her teeth became sharp and bigger.

"ALERT! ALERT! EVERYBODY GET UP! COME ON BLADE BREAKER'S, UP AND AT 'EM! EMERGENCY!"

Jeralt was frantically banging on doors and getting his group up out of their beds. It didn't help that they had all been drinking the night away and weren't too in the mood for whatever their boss was waking them up for.

"Come on boss, what is the big idea?" One Mercenary asked, still feeling the effects of the alcohol.

"Listen Floyd! You are going to evacuate everybody out of here! The rest of you, on me! We have a monster approaching!"

The band of Mercenaries just looked very unimpressed as one named John stepped forward. "Captain, is this some kind of joke? A training exercise? Because involving us is bad enough, but you're expecting the village to get involved in this too?"

"What are you talking about? Do I look like I'm joking?!"

"Well…" A healer named Hellen yawned, brushing her orange bangs out of her face. "There was the time you gave us practice sessions in the case of an emergency, claiming there were giant wolves coming for us. But more importantly, no monsters have ever been spotted around these parts. Are you sure you're okay Captain?"

"Guys, I am not playing around! Now quickly before-"

ROOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRR!

Everyone froze in place as a giant shadow loomed over the village as Hellen looked up, clutching her staff and couldn't believe her eyes. "By the Goddess…."

It was a giant ape, with brown fur and piercing, glowing red eyes. It's teeth firmly clenched as it growled loudly and roared into the night sky.

Floyd was frozen in place for a second before he snapped out of his trance and turned to the villagers. "EVERYBODY MAKE YOUR WAY OUT NOW! WE NEED TO EVACUATE!"

Panic ensued as the villagers scrambled to run away with Floyd trying his best to keep them under control. Meanwhile, the rest of the group stayed next to Jeralt and drew their weapons.

Hellen looked over to Jeralt and tried to stay calm. But then her eyes widened. "Wait, where's Byleth? She's in-"

"Let's worry about her later, she's fine!" Jeralt snapped as he looked at the rampaging monster currently walking towards the village. "Everyone! Draw it away from the village! We don't stand a chance against it in a fight, so just try to divert it's attention away so it can't destroy any houses or farms! Understand?"

John got on his Wyvern and nodded. "Got it Captain!"

Hellen blew out a breath and narrowed her eyes. "Understood!"

Jeralt meanwhile, closed his eyes and gritted his teeth. 'Forgive me kid. But this is for your own good.'

"Amazing! You possess the Crest of Flames! I knew I recognised the symbol, but nobody has possessed that Crest ever since Nemesis!"

Byleth was currently in Professor Hanneman's office as he stared at the symbol presented in his analyser. "Absolutely fascinating! You must allow me to experiment further! A Crest this valuable is but an opportunity of a lifetime!"

"I will… think about it." Byleth replied before standing up. "Now if you'll excuse me, I must be visiting Lady Rhea. She has a new mission for me."

"Oh yes, of course! Do not allow me to keep you waiting! I'll just be over here studying!"

"Right…"

As Byleth left the office, Sothis appeared beside her, shaking her head. 'That man is a little too excited for my liking. Not to mention his lack of personal space. What's so important about Crests anyway?'

"I'm not too sure…" Byleth muttered while staring at the back of her hand. This was a strange start to her month. Not only could she wield a Relic, but now she learned that she possessed a Crest that hasn't been around for centuries. "I wouldn't say I'm special…"

'Coming from the girl who has a tail, no heartbeat, is able to eat an entire cafeteria, can blow up mountains with her own hands. Am I missing anything else?'

Then Sothis saw the sad look on Byleth and sighed, floating down to her. 'Hey, I'm sorry. But whether you like it or not, you are special. I know it isn't what you want to hear, but it's the truth. Have you had any more visions lately?'

Byleth just shook her head as she stood outside the doors leading to Lady Rhea. "Thankfully not. My head hurts when I have those visions. I'm not looking forward to this. I don't know why, but Rhea scares me."

'Hmmm, yes she has been acting odd around you. That little moment yesterday especially drove that point home. But it is like Jeralt said. She is your boss, and you need to put up with her.'

"Yes, I know…" Byleth then took a deep breath and opened the doors. She was surprised to not only see Rhea and Seteth, but also see Claude standing there and he smiled.

"Sup Teach! Seems we will be spending time together this month."

Rhea's face lit up when she saw Byleth walk through as she clasped her hands. "Ah, Byleth I'm glad you were able to come by on short notice. I apologise for my… little outburst yesterday. It seems even stress doesn't evade the Archbishop."

"Think nothing of it, Lady Rhea." Byleth replied, adopting a persona just like Jeralt did when it came down to business. "Now, you said you had a new mission for me? Will Task Force 141 be involved? Though Claude said how we would be together?"

Rhea just shook her head and smiled. "No, no. This month is a simple one. I wish for you to accompany the Golden Deer house on their mission to the Alliance. They had sent a request for help last week and I figured who better to do that than those of their own kind. And I decided that having you along will make sure nothing will go wrong."

Byleth didn't look too happy about this, for one good reason. Hanneman. But as if sensing her thoughts, Seteth stepped forward.

"I will see to it that Professor Hanneman shall respect your personal space. Though it is not the first time I had to have this talk with him… nonetheless, this will be a strictly professional venture. We do not feel like it is necessary to send in the Task Force."

"What about Shamir and fath- Professor Jeralt?"

"Professor Jeralt has his class to take care of. And as for Shamir, we have sent her to try and collect more intel of this mysterious foe. You will be seeing her in and out of the Monastery this following month."

"I know I shouldn't need to tell you this." Rhea said, clasping her hands again and bowing her head. "But while we aren't expecting anything out of the ordinary, please do not hesitate to take action should the need arise. Any more questions?"

"Do we know what is happening in the Alliance?" Claude asked. "I've not heard any reports of attacks lately."

"It appears that there are frequent attacks from Almyrians." Rhea replied. "And it is getting too much for the Alliance to handle by themselves."

Byleth could've sworn for a split second, she saw Claude's face change. Like concern. Or anger. But in the blink of an eye, he had his usual smile. Rhea looked at both of them and asked if there was any other questions.

Byleth just shook her head as Rhea smiled again. "Then may the Goddess protect you. You are dismissed."

"Well Teach, I look forward to working with you this month." Claude said, winking at her. "Oh by the way, Edelgard wants us to meet her later on in the day. Seems to be something important."

"Do you know what it is about?" Byleth asked, to which Claude shrugged.

"She likes her secrets. Which is why she and I pair so well together."

Byleth and Sothis wouldn't say that, and from the looks of it, Claude wasn't being serious as he saluted with two fingers and walked off.

'That boy sure is strange.' Sothis commented, while folding her arms. Byleth was inclined to agree on that part.

"At least he is not like Rhea."

'Ugh, that woman gives me the creeps.' Sothis muttered. 'I can't read her at all. Though, it seems that excitement never fails to find you in this place.'

Byleth was nodding along, but Sothis noticed she had a faraway look in her eyes. 'What are you thinking about?'

"The Death Knight." Byleth replied, stopping in her tracks. "He said Lysithea was interesting… if he wants to fight me, then that's fine. But I will not allow him to attack any of the students."

'Indeed. You had trouble with him at first. It's like you said, he looked to have just started using that crystal, so he wasn't used to the power. I have a feeling that the next time we meet him, we won't be as lucky.'

But then Sothis turned to Byleth and smiled. 'But worry not! You are very good at pushing yourself past your limits. I'm sure you'll be ready, no doubt in my mind.'

"…Thank you Sothis." Byleth replied as the spirit beamed.

'Look at that! There's a smile!'

That's when Catherine showed up and slapped Byleth on the back, and promptly tried to ignore the throbbing pain in her hand as she grinned nervously, hiding her hand behind her back. "Hey Byleth! You up for some training today? I saw that you were practicing using your Relic and figured, why not help you out? Comrades have to help each other right?"

"I would like that very much." Byleth said smiling lightly at her as the woman grinned.

"Then let's not waste any time! Come on, there should be some rookies we can torture!"

Catherine stopped and turned to Byleth. "I'm joking."

But then grinned again and walked away. "It'll be a bloodbath."

'…Why are we still here?' Sothis asked.

"I'm not sure…"

"Do you feel a little better Edie?"

Edelgard was currently seated in the gardens, isolated from the rest of the Monastery and sharing tea with Dorothea. The Princess just gave a smile in return. "I am. It was a wonderful idea to invite me to tea. You even brought me my favourite."

A simple giggle was the Songstress's response. "Oh Edie, of course I would pull out all the stops for you. But I am glad to see that you are happier."

It was true. Edelgard was happier lately. But for one reason. Her plan worked! She managed to get Hubert to join her uncle right from under his nose! And now, Hubert can help her discover the secrets behind the dark crystals. Though she had to admit, she would miss him constantly supervising her. But then again, the future Empress was more than capable of taking care of herself. Especially nowadays.

So Edelgard brought the cup to her lips and smiled. "I am happier. Thank you."

But then Edelgard had a question of her own to ask. "How are you? Are you still having nightmares?"

Dorothea's bright smile slowly faded as she stared at her cup. "Not so much nowadays. But I still have them. I have counselling sessions with Seteth. He helps me try to make sense of them. Oh, I just I wish I was as strong as Miss Byleth or you-"

"I'm not strong."

Edelgard watched her classmate look at her with surprise as she looked at her own cup. "It's just something that I have to act like I am. But ever since that day in Remire Village, I've learned that I am just a grain of sand in a vast beach."

"Yes, this whole Ki business is certainly something to behold." Dorothea replied. "Thank the Goddess that you have Miss Byleth to help you on your way because who knows how much damage you can do."

"I feel it." Edelgard replied looking at her vastly scarred hand. "The potential inside of me… it scares me. Could I possibly have the power to destroy a whole mountain with one hand? Would that spell destruction for all of Fódlan?"

"Well, that's all up to you, isn't it Edie?" Dorothea said winking. "Do you want to help people, or become a nasty destroyer of lands?"

'I know which one I have to be.' Edelgard thought to herself with a grim look. '…Right? I need to do this. For the sake of Fódlan… so why am I hesitating?'

Thankfully Dorothea cut her out of her thoughts with a bright smile. "Now let's get on the topic of cuties around the Monastery. I've been looking at Petra doing her training lately and it's just adorable the way she scrunches her nose when she spare!"

"You… watch Petra train?"

Dorothea just nodded. "Yes, though she requested that I watch her. She prefers having an outside observer watch her so I can look at mistakes that she can't see. But may I say that your training has made you so strong! Just look at yourself!"

Edelgard didn't really think about being strong. But when she looked at her arms she saw more muscle on them. And she put her hands on her belly and realised that she lost some of the fat that made it's way there from too many sweets.

"You see? You're getting really buff Edie! Not like Raphael buff but more like Miss Byleth and Miss Shamir."

"Speaking of…" Dorothea slowly leaned forward smirking. "You like her don't you?"

Edelgard's cheeks lit up as she tried to hide in her cup. "I do not know what you are talking about."

"Oh come on! You gave her that pendant when she left for her first mission! And none of us knew about it, despite you claiming it was a class effort. And don't think I haven't noticed the big smiles when she ruffles your hair."

"I-I-It is nice to be noticed for your efforts…" Edelgard tried to argue, but was quickly cut off.

"Except you say to Professor Jeralt that praise isn't necessary."

"L-Let's just change the subject." Edelgard muttered pouring herself another cup.

"Aww, you're no fun. But okay. What are the rest of the Task Force doing today?"

Appreciating her classmates respect for her personal boundaries, Edelgard smiled. "Well, we are done with our training for today, but I imagine most of them are still doing it anyway. But I know Dimitri has his counselling session today."

"I wonder how he is getting on…" Dorothea mused you herself sipping her tea.

"So Dimitri… tell me how you feel."

"Seteth, I really don't think this is-"

"Miss Byleth personally came to me and requested a counselling session for you. In her eyes, something is bothering you and it is getting in the way of your training." Seteth replied cooly, sipping at water. "So I ask again, how do you feel?"

Dimitri paused and frowned to himself. Was it that obvious? He tried his best to hide his pain from the world, but clearly he was doing a terrible job. And he felt bad that Byleth had to go out of her way to arrange this for him. He supposed that he might as well indulge in this in a way to help his mentor.

"I feel… trapped."

"Trapped?" Seteth asked, scribbling on a sheet of paper. "Is this caused by something?"

"Yes." Dimitri replied, as he closed his eyes. "The Tragedy of Duscur."

"Ah yes." Seteth murmured. "I am sorry for you to have gone through an event like that."

"I thank you for your sympathies." Dimitri said, smiling at Seteth before staring up at the ceiling. "But unfortunately, the dead have none for me."

"The… dead?"

The Prince just sighed. If anyone was going to listen, it would be his 'therapist'. Who knows, it may even help him. "Yes. I see them in every passing moment. My father, my stepmother, Glenn. They appear before me. Mocking me, taunting me, demanding I avenge them. Even right now, they are demanding I stop this foolish session and get back to getting vengeance."

Seteth was just silent as he continued to scribble. "And yet, you're staying. Why is that?"

"…Professor Byleth came to you about my well-being. The least that I can do is honour her request and try to see this to the end."

"Very good." Seteth smiled lightly. "Now, I know this will be difficult for you, so please go at your own pace. But tell me your memories of that event and how you felt. Again, at your own pace."

"…..Very well then." Dimitri said as he began to recount his experience.

"HAH!"

WHOOSH!

"TOO SLOW!"

BOOM!

"TRY THIS!"

Annette had the wind knocked out of her as she fell into the grass landing on her butt, as she rubbed it. "Ow! That hurt!"

"Then you should try better next time." Lysithea replied, adjusting her wristbands. The two spell casters decided to spend today by sparring with each other. They felt like they had to stick together as in the Task Force, they were the only mages.

Though their personalities often clashed which seemed to cause issues as Annette puffed her cheeks. "Jeez Lysithea, why the sour face? Did you eat some lemons for lunch?"

"No, I simply prefer to be at my best at all times. And I'm sure that you like that too." Lysithea cooly replied, but stopped when she saw Annette giggling. "What is so funny?"

"Nothing, it's just that you look so cute when you're serious."

Lysithea stiffened and her face went bright red at that word. "I'M NOT CUTE! I AM A MAGE!"

"Okay, okay. I'm sorry." Annette said, trying to hide her smile. "Would you care to try again? I think I'm getting the hang of it this time."

"…Very well. Just know that I won't be going easy."

"That reminds me, how are you this strong with magic and Ki? I mean, you're younger than me and yet you're able to do stuff that even my old teachers back at school couldn't do."

Lysithea just froze in place as Annette couldn't help but notice pain behind those pink eyes. "Ummm Lysi? Are you okay?"

"…..I-I'm fine. I'm fine. I am just a hard worker, that's all…"

Annette could tell something was up. But she decided to not press the subject as the albino girl got in a stance, conjuring up a Ki ball and a dark orb.

"Well then, let's stop talking and throw fists! And maybe later we can get some cake together?"

A wide smile appeared on Lysithea as she smirked. "You had me at cake."

"Impressive Ashe." Ingrid breathed out, wiping the sweat off her brow as she leaned on her lance. "You're already overpowering me with your training. You must feel proud."

"Heh. Thanks Ingrid." Ashe smiled, rubbing the back of his head and trying to fend off the blush on his face. "Though I have a long way to go before I am up there with the others."

"Oh, stop it." Ingrid said, walking towards him. "Look at what you have accomplished, rather than looking to what everybody else has done. You've really impressed me Ashe."

"I-I have?"

"Mhm. I have no doubt in my mind that you would become a great knight."

"But don't you want to become a knight too, Ingrid?" Ashe asked, tilting his head. That's when an idea came to his mind. "Oh, I know! How about you learn Ki with us? I'm sure that Professor Byleth would say yes if we asked, and then we could both become great knights together!"

"I'm afraid not."

That was something that he wasn't expecting to hear. "I beg your pardon?"

Ingrid just had a sorrowful look in her eyes as she looked at her classmate. "Look Ashe, there is nothing I would love more than to be a knight and to serve his Highness. But unfortunately, I bear a Crest. And I have to think of my house. I am their last hope. I must marry and bear children and reinstate their status."

Ashe couldn't believe what he was hearing. Why would she throw her own life away doing something she doesn't even want to do? "But… you are allowed to have dreams too Ingrid…"

Ingrid just shook her head and smiled sadly. "Ashe. I must ask something of you."

"Yes, of course. Anything."

"This is a dream both of us share. To be a knight and protect people." She then turned away and looked down. "So please achieve that dream for both of us. Can you promise that?"

"But… that doesn't seem fair." Ashe frowned, fiddling with his training shirt.

"I'll never be able to see my dream through. Doing so would mean… terrible misfortune for others."

Ingrid turned back around and looked into Ashe's eyes. "So… I am bound by honour not to follow through on my own dreams. But… I can help you achieve yours… for both of us."

"Come on." Ashe said, feeling very confused on her words. "This isn't like you at all. Please… don't smile when your eyes are so sad."

Ingrid just took his hands and clasped them in her own. "Please. For me? Use this power for the good of our Kingdom and protect his Highness."

"But Ingrid-"

"Promise me!"

Ashe looked down and slowly sighed. "Very well. I promise. But wouldn't you want to at least learn Ki?"

Ingrid looked to her side and was rubbing her arm. Clearly he was stepping on uncomfortable grounds as she spoke up. "Ashe. While I am proud of you to be learning how to control this power… I must admit that… I am afraid."

"Afraid? Of what?"

"That I'm so out of my depth here. Sometimes I wonder if the rest of us are even necessary. Like myself, Mercedes, Sylvain."

"What about Dedue?" Ashe asked to which Ingrid glared at him.

"What do you mean, what about him?"

Okay, he was definitely trudging on unfamiliar grounds. Maybe it was better to change the subject. "Of course you're necessary."

Ingrid, while thankful the subject was changed, just cling to her sleeves. "It's terrifying Ashe. We all saw what Miss Byleth did to that mountain. I was training in the courtyard when I saw that mountain get vaporised. I couldn't stop shaking. Nobody should have that kind of power."

Ashe couldn't relate to her feelings in that moment. After all, he was out cold during the course of that battle. But he does see his friends point about the scale of the power he held in his hands. "Perhaps you're right, Ingrid. But there are people out there who also have this power. And they're using it to cause destruction to Fódlan. I couldn't help Lonato back then. But Professor Byleth gave me an opportunity. To help people."

"…Then all the more reason for you to achieve your dreams. For both of us."

Ingrid then walked away, leaving Ashe all alone as he stared at his hands. "I will… but I'm not letting you give up on yours."

"Caspar. Is everything okay? You are being distraction."

Caspar and Petra were currently sparring, to which Petra kept on winning. She knew that something was off, because Caspar was better at hand to hand than she was. But she noticed how distracted he was lately whenever they paired up for sparring matches. He picked himself up and shook his head.

"No, no. Everything is fine. Nothing to worry about. Let's continue with the training."

Petra nodded and took a stance. "Then I will not be worrying. Let's begin."

"Ugh! Fine!" Caspar yelled which startled Petra. "We can talk about it if you insist, you can stop pretending like you don't know."

Okay, this confused Petra greatly. Was this a Fódlan custom she was unfamiliar with? "What am I knowing?"

"About my father." Caspar replied which just confused Petra even further.

"Your father? He is of the military, in the Empire. I hear he has great skill."

"No, no, no, not that!" Caspar said before pausing briefly. "Well it's… kind of about that… I'm talking about when Dagda and Brigid invaded the Empire. My father lead the army that fended off the invaders. Your father was in that battle. Did you really not know? My father killed yours!"

Petra clenched her jaw. Not because of Caspar, not at all. But the memory of that war. She was only a child when those events took place, and she was taught just how unfair and dangerous the world of Fódlan was when her father did not return home.

"How… long have you had this knowing?"

"I just found out recently." Caspar replied, looking down. "I had no idea before then, but it's all I've been able to think about since…"

Petra was just silent at this point and turned her back on him. "So. Now you have the truth. I shall do meditation instead. Goodbye."

"Petra?" Caspar called putting to the Princess, but got no response from her and he just placed a hand on his head and sighed. "Damn it… now what am I supposed to do…"

"What's eating you up kid?"

He turned to see Jeralt approaching him. "Oh, hi Professor. It's just… Petra and I found out something from the time Dagda and Brigid invaded the Empire. And my father killed hers…"

Jeralt grunted as he uncorked his hip flask and took a swig. "It's best to give her some space for a while then. But listen, try not to let this get to you too much. You're not your father and Petra knows that."

"I know! But…"

Caspar had trailed off into silence as Jeralt sighed, putting his flask away. "It's actually a good job I found you here. You'll be with me today and learning discipline. You need to learn how to listen to orders and not just rushing in."

"…Is this about what happened back at the Rite of Rebirth? But I was protecting Ashe!"

"And in turn, you almost got yourself killed. Now come on."

Caspar slowly walked towards his Professor and decided it would be wise to listen. He just hoped Petra was okay.

"Now where in the world is that Claude?" Lorenz muttered, holding a stack of paper. "Honestly, he ruins my day by tasking me to gather supplies and mark them down, and he just runs off when I'm done! Honestly, this is not how our future leader should act."

But then he passed Hilda's room in the dormitory and heard a voice. A male voice. "Hilda, we've done it three times today."

"Oh, come on Claude! Just one more time! It's so good!"

A chill passed through the Noble's spine at what he heard. This couldn't be right at all! He must've just simply misheard them. But he couldn't stop himself from placing his ear on the door and listening in.

"It feels so good going up and down with you holding me! Never thought it would be that much fun!"

"Yeah it's certainly like that when I do all the work…"

"Oh hush, you like it too!"

'Those two cannot be serious!' Lorenz thought you himself as he started to panic. 'Do they have any idea how much chaos the Alliance would be in if word got out about them engaging in intercourse?!'

But then a voice from behind him sounded. "You know, I thought Nobles were above spying on people, Lorenz."

He yelped in fright and turned to see Leonie standing there with her arms crossed and a very unimpressed look on her face. "And especially when it comes to spying on young girls."

"N-N-No it's not what you think!"

"Then why are you listening in on Hilda?" Leonie said dangerously, as she held out her hand and formed a Ki ball. "You better pray I like your answer."

"N-Now listen here!" Lorenz started to yell but went silent when the Ki ball got bigger. "I was simply passing by and heard noises and went to investigate and I stumbled upon a scandal!"

"A scandal."

"Yes! Claude and Hilda are engaging in intercourse!"

Leonie just raised an eyebrow and dispersed the Ki ball before sighing and pressing her thumb and finger to her temples. "Okay, what are you talking about?"

"Exactly that! Listen in if you don't believe me!"

While Leonie was not one to pry, especially on other people's privacy, she did admit that the idea of Claude and Hilda together amused her. Like it wouldn't surprise her at all if they were courting, considering how close they were. So she pressed her ear against the door and listened in.

"Wow, I can't believe how big it has gotten!"

"Come on Hilda, let's do it already. I'm meeting with their Highnesses soon."

"Okay, I'm ready whenever you are."

She quickly withdrew her head from the door and tried to fight off the blush that creeped up on her face. "Wow, I said I wouldn't be surprised but… wow."

"We need to stop them!" Lorenz exclaimed while Leonie just groaned.

"Just leave them be Lorenz. Whatever they do in their own time shouldn't concern us."

"But it is!" Lorenz retorted as he grabbed her shoulders. "Do you have any idea how the Nobles in the Alliance would react if they found out the future leader was fooling around with the little sister of a high ranking general?!"

"…I'm assuming it wouldn't end well?" Leonie asked while gently prying his hands away from her.

"It would end horribly! Forget about the drama that would come forth as well as those two possibly bringing shame to their house, but blackmail would be attempted on the two and possibly tension from both sides? And what if they were careless and Hilda became with child?!"

In Leonie's eyes, that would be perfect for Hilda. Being pregnant meant that she could get out of literally anything. But she and Claude were definitely too young for that.

"Well, I guess I wouldn't want that to happen to them." Leonie muttered and sighed loudly, rubbing her face. "Okay, okay. Let's stop them."

"Indeed! You break down the door!"

"…Why? Is the Nobleman afraid of putting in a little effort to open a door?"

"No, because you are the one who can bench press a carriage."

"…Oh, good point." Leonie said and got ready to barge the door and closed her eyes. She just hoped that she wouldn't see any of her classmates naked. She doubt she could look them in the eye anymore if that was the case.

So she rammed her shoulder into the door and it flung open before Lorenz stormed in. "Claude von Riegan and Hilda Valentine Goneril! I order you both to cease having intercourse before things get out… of… hand…"

Lorenz realised something very important when he stormed into the room. Claude and Hilda were not on her bed, they were fully clothed, and Hilda was high in the air laying horizontal only being supported by Claude's hand on her abdomen with her arms outstretched.

Claude simply looked up to his friend and raised an eyebrow. "Wait we were having sex? You should've told me Hilda, I would've put you down."

Oh.

Oh no.

He made a very big mistake.

Lorenz felt his resolve cracking as Hilda rolled her eyes. "You know that knocking exists right? And why in the world would you think we were having sex?"

Lorenz felt his mouth go dry as he was unable to form words. "B-Because I… well we… we heard…"

"You were talking about how… big Claude had gotten." Leonie piped in, trying her best to keep a straight face from Lorenz's embarrassment.

"Well look at his bicep!" Hilda exclaimed, now back on the floor as she squeezed his arm. "Look how muscular he is now! He can bench me with one hand! To be honest, I'm surprised you're not this muscular Leonie."

Leonie was just amused at the look of horror on Lorenz's face as he slowly turned around to leave. "Have we learned a lesson then?"

"…Do not assume things." Lorenz muttered as he slowly left the room while Claude just laughed.

"First time I've seen him make that face, gotta keep that in mind for the future." He said to himself as he also walked to the door. "Sorry to cut this short ladies, but I must be going now. It wouldn't be very 'Noble' of me if I kept their royal highnesses waiting."

"Awwww, do you have to leave?" Hilda whined, crossing her arms. "I was having fun…"

"Ah don't worry about it sweetheart." Claude winked. "I can bench press you any day of the week."

As he left, Hilda then turned to Leonie as she sported a dangerous look in her eyes. "So why did you break down my door? Do you think I am the kind of girl who has sex with anyone? Or did you talk sense into that knucklehead?"

Leonie froze in place as she realised she was caught in a bad position. "Ummmm…"

Seteth had lived for many years. He had been through a few wars. He even saw the rise and fall of his own people.

Yet, nothing prepared him for today as he just watched Dimitri, the Prince of Faerghus scream and yell.

"AND THEN WHEN I FIND WHO WAS RESPONSIBLE, I WILL CUT OFF THEIR HEADS AND PULL THEIR EYES OUT AND SHOVE THEM DOWN THEIR STOMACH'S TO SHOW JUST HOW GUTLESS THEY REALLY ARE!"

But then Dimitri blinked as he seemed to have recalled some sense into his mind, and he slowly sat back down with his head bowed. "…I apologise. Sometimes recalling that day brings up unwanted emotions."

"That is perfectly fine." Seteth replied, as he continued to write. "But it appears we have found something. That's progress at least. I would like to do this again next week if you do not mind."

In all honesty, Dimitri wanted nothing to do with this. This wasn't helping at all, all he wanted was to get stronger so he could kill the people responsible for that event.

But Byleth set this up for him, so he may as well try for her sake. "Very well. I accept."

"Excellent. Grab something to eat and drink Dimitri, you'll need it."

"I understand." Dimitri said, as he stood up and bowed. "Have a good afternoon."

As Seteth watched him leave, he sighed to himself. He wasn't sure how he missed this. It was so obvious that Dimitri was in pain. "Right. I should tell Miss Byleth the summary of these sessions."

Outside, Dimitri was taking deep breathes to calm himself down, not noticing that he bumped into a person before the scream caught his attention. He blinked out of his haze and realised it was Marianne.

"Oh Goddess, Marianne I'm so sorry! Are you okay?"

He helped her off of the ground and he realised that he made her drop a bag of oats that she was carrying. But Marianne just shook her head. "You didn't have to help me up…"

"But I had to. It was my fault that you ended up on the ground." Dimitri responded as he picked up of what remained in the bag of oats. "Were you going to feed the horses?"

Marianne appeared to have brightened up at that question, as it was a subject she was passionate about as she smiled lightly. "Oh yes, Dorte loves oats, and I was going to feed her but… I'll need to go and get some more."

"Then allow me to accompany you." Dimitri said, holding out a hand. "As a way to apologise for making you lose them in the first place."

"…Why are you helping me? I'm not worth the trouble." Marianne muttered looking the other way and rubbing her arm.

"I disagree." Dimitri replied which surprised the shy girl as he gave her a smile. "It was because of me that you have to go back to the cafeteria, the least that I can do is help you with your task."

"…Okay then. I'll allow you to help… if it's not too much trouble…"

Dimitri smiled again and Marianne actually gave a small smile back. He knew that he had to meet up with Edelgard later on… but he could afford to take his time with Marianne.

He knew about her from Claude. How she felt like she was a curse to everybody around her. How she always blamed herself.

Perhaps she understood his pain better than Seteth.

WHACK!

"Oh come on!"

WHACK!

"Goddess dammit Byleth, time out! Time out!"

Catherine sighed as she slowly picked herself up, leaning on her training sword and panted. "Have to admit… you're picking up the sword better than I thought…"

"I always knew how to." Byleth replied as she twirled her sword. "Dad made sure I knew how to. But punching is better. It's a shame that the others couldn't handle us."

The two women looked over to a pile of unconscious guards with a bunch of them cowering in fear in a corner. Catherine scratched her head and chuckled nervously as a sweat drop formed on her head. "I think we went a little too hard on them. Sorry we couldn't give you a proper challenge."

"It's ok. I'm used to it."

Surprise was placed all over Catherine's face as she looked at Byleth who stared at her wooden blade. "The only one who could keep up with me was my dad. Shamir may be a good sparring partner, but even she knows how much I hold back. It's been like this since I was a kid."

"Yeah, I can see why. I mean, I saw you fighting back at Castle Gaspard." Catherine replied. "That was insane. You're definitely someone that I'm glad is on our side."

"Me too…" Byleth said. "But that fight… not just with Lonato, but that Goliath on my first mission… that was the first time I was excited. My life was on the line, yet I was wanting more… but I wonder if my power will be enough moving forward."

"Hey come on now." Catherine grinned putting her hand on Byleth's shoulder. "That's why you're teaching the brats how to use Ki. So you don't need to do it alone. Give them time, and they will catch up in no time and assist you in more ways than one! And you can count on me as well as Thunderbrand to help as well. The Goddess will bless all of us. I promise."

"…Thanks Catherine."

That's when an idea sprung into the blondes head as she grinned again. "Hey, Shamir is coming back this week to deliver what she has gathered and we're all going out for drinks, you wanna come with us?"

"All of us?"

"Yeah, the faculty members have a night out every few months or so. It usually ends with Manuela passed out on the floor but we have fun in the end. What do you say?"

Byleth pondered this. She never really went out of her way to go to a tavern, it was more like whenever the Blade Breakers stopped by at one, that's when she would have a beer or two. Though there was that one night…. that she hoped wouldn't be a repeat.

"Sure. I'll be happy to come."

"Awesome!" Catherine said, slapping her back and groaned loudly at her throbbing hand. "Seriously, are you made of steel?"

"No… just flesh. I'm human."

"No that's not what I… never mind."

The pair then heard a pair of footsteps behind them and saw Seteth approaching, and Catherine straightened. "Ah, Seteth. Is everything okay?"

"Everything is fine, though I would like to discuss a matter with Miss Byleth alone if you don't mind."

"Oh. Of course." Catherine turned to Byleth and pumped a fist. "Let's spar again sometimes."

Byleth nodded in return as Seteth lead her away. "I assume this is about Edelgard and Dimitri?"

"Indeed." Seteth said, looking at his papers. "You did the right thing in bringing this to my attention. While I will not dwell on the details as that is strictly between myself and them. I will let you know there is progress. Though I fear that out of the two, Dimitri is the most damaged, not surprising considering what he had gone through."

He then stopped and looked at Byleth. "Edelgard meanwhile is more about a matter of philosophy. I have to admit, it's interesting to hear her views. But I sense damage under her exterior too. We will be doing these sessions more often so I would say a step in the right direction."

"Thank you Seteth." Byleth said as she looked up at the sky. "Speaking of Edelgard, I promised I would meet up with her. Is there anything else?"

"Not at all. I shall see you later Miss Byleth."

Edelgard was staring out at the allotment that they had tended to during their training and was surprised to see that it was starting to bear vegetables already. She theorised that's they should at least have some vegetables before the month was over. She was honestly proud of herself for contributing to it. Even if it ruined her fingers at first.

"Sup Princess."

She turned around to see Claude approaching her with a two fingered salute. "I'm surprised that you are the first one here."

"Dimitri is doing his therapy session and Teach was sparring with Catherine last I heard." Claude replied and grinned. "Besides, this gives us some alone time. But be careful, people might talk."

Edelgard just rolled her eyes but smiled in return when as if right on cue, Byleth and Dimitri had approached too with the Prince bowing.

"Forgive me Edelgard. I was helping out Lady Marianne and lost track of time."

"Not at all. I'm glad you are all here." Edelgard replied as she looked at her scarred arms. "Now… a question. For Dimitri and Claude. Do you remember what we talked about? That night before we went to Zanado? About… my past?"

A serious look passed over Dimitri and Claude as her story came back to them. Byleth however, was confused as Edelgard explained to her.

"I will keep it brief. But all my siblings died when I was young… and I still have nightmares of them suffering and me being unable to help."

Byleth had a sad look on her face. "That's awful."

"Thank you for your words Professor, but that's not why I called you all out here."

Edelgard looked at her scarred hands and remembered her times in that dark place. How it shaped her. How it set her motives. She took a deep breath and looked at the three. "None of my siblings had the chance to lead the sort of life they deserved. An ordinary life."

Nobody said anything as Edelgard continued to tell them of her past. "My siblings and I were… We were imprisoned underground, beneath the palace. The objective was to endow our bodies with the power of a Major Crest."

"Artificial Crest Implantation." Claude muttered, placing a hand on his chin. "I've read about that practice, but it was for commoners or Nobles who would do anything for a Crest. Though the mortality rate is too high…"

Edelgard nodded, pleased that Claude has done research on it as she continued. "As you all know, I have always possessed the Crest of Seiros, inherited through the Hresvelg bloodline."

She then became lost in her thoughts as she looked down with a sad look. "But it was only a Minor Crest, and most of my siblings bore no Crest at all. In order to create a peerless Emperor to rule Fódlan, they violated our bodies by cutting open our very flesh."

The three recoiled at that sentence as Dimitri looked at her arms. "Your scars…"

"Yes." Edelgard replied, standing tall. "Now here I stand, the fruit of that endeavour: Edelgard von Hresvelg!"

"But I'm guessing that your siblings weren't as lucky." Claude said which struck the Princess deep as she clutched her heart and nodded.

"The others were sacrificed. But ours weren't the only lives devastated by that terrible process. Innocents died as well, without even knowing what they were dying for."

Edelgard released another breath she was holding and opened her eyes. "And there you have it. The truth of the Hresvelg Empire."

There were a myriad of reactions to her story. Claude had a tight face as his fist clenched. He knew there were scum in Fódlan, but to sacrifice children was another thing.

Byleth kept a flat look, but Edelgard saw her tail coiling and twitching in anger. The only side that showed emotion.

And Dimitri was staring at the ground with a dark look in his eyes as his fists were tightly clenched. He slowly stepped forward and placed his hands on her shoulders. And he shocked her to her core when he spoke.

"El. Who did this?"

How did he know that nickname? Only those close to her called her that, and she had no memory of meeting him. But she just answered while looking down.

"The Prime Minister and his gaggle of Nobles. They had the Empire under their thumbs. My father, the Emperor, tried to stop him, but… it was futile. My father was nothing but a puppet on a string by then. He was powerless to save us."

She sighed again and stepped back, dusting her training uniform. "I know how it all sounds. But when you see my true strength, you will know I speak the truth. I have kept it hidden all this time but… I trust you three more than anyone right now. I will reveal to you the power of my second Crest."

She held out her hand and conjured up a magic symbol which floored her audience. It was the same symbol as the one inside Byleth as Edelgard looked to her instructor. "It is the same as yours… the Crest of Flames. When it manifested for me, I swore a silent oath. For the sake of my family and for all the poor souls whose lives were traded for my existence… for their sake, I will build a world where such meaningless sacrifice is never again sanctioned."

She dispersed the symbol and looked at the three before her. "As Emperor, I will change the world. I swear it."

"Quite a rousing speech Princess." Claude said with his hands behind his head, he had a smirk, but his eyes said differently. He was concerned deeply for her.

Byleth silently walked forward and nudged Dimitri out of the way as Edelgard looked a little nervous. What was she going to do? She got her answer when Byleth hugged her. And her tail wrapped round Edelgard's waist too.

"I'm sorry."

Edelgard was trying to cool her burning face, because she was face first in Byleth's chest. She couldn't believe how quickly the mood changed. "T-T-Thank you Professor."

"Are you unwell? Your face is red."

"N-N-No! I'm fine here! Honestly!"

Dimitri and Claude just looked at Edelgard loving where she was right now as Claude chuckled. "So she's got a face full of Professor. Sounds to me she is not moving for a while. Right Dimitri?"

But Claude got no response as he saw the look in his classmate's eyes. He has seen it before. "I'm going to go train. I will catch up another time."

Claude watched him walk away as he scratched his head. Things were shifting here in Fódlan. Between the upcoming mission and Edelgard's past. For the first time, he was at a loss.

Perhaps the library can offer something.

"Edelgard, we must be going."

"Oh, but your hugs are the best Professor!" Edelgard purred and nuzzled into her chest as she wiggled her butt.

"Oh? Well then, perhaps we can hug more?"

"Yes!"

Claude smirked and laughed. What a little devil Edelgard was.

Whew, finally done. I wanted to do a Tales of Ba Sing Se kind of chapter to build up supports of certain characters, and to just give a little breathing room.

So yeah, it wouldn't be Dragonball without a little perverted humour in there would there? Edelgard will certainly love Byleth's hugs. Especially considering how much of a Bi disaster she is in canon.

But now they know more about Edelgard's past, and how she's the person she is. Will it help when that moment happens later on? Will Dimitri still snap?

Also, you may have noticed that we are doing something different. We never really explored Holst in game, so I decided while Blue Lions will deal with Miklan, the Golden Deer will defend their land.

And lastly, keep in mind that a movie villian will play a role in an upcoming arc. It's not Broly. You think they can handle Broly? You're insane.

And how could I forget how we hit 54 Favourites and 69 Follows? Thank you so much to each and every one of you.

But anyway, see you next chapter guys!