Our Forbidden Symphony

Rated T/M for themes

Synopsis:

Manuela Casagrande was a simple woman living in a complicated world. Kaede Seishin was a mercenary with a secret past. A chance encounter leads him to Garreg Mach, under the vigilant eyes of Arch-Bishop, Rhea, and a future Empress. But something about the former songstress makes this new life bearable. What path will he choose? What secrets will be uncovered during this new journey? What secrets does he possess himself?

A/N:

I'm just going to say this now:

My OC is NOT taking the place of Byleth in the Three Houses story! I've seen some nasty comments about OCs and the roles they play regarding replacing one of the protagonists. Kaede's position will follow the story's events, shifting circumstances due to his presence. Byleth will still be the professor and Jeralt will still join the ranks of the Knights of Seiros. They will remain as fixtures of the story, this is merely a story in which my character has a role to play within the main story, shifting certain events in a similar way that Shez does (without the ethereal being within them).

Some events will change for the better and worse depending on how things flow. If you don't like what I write, I suggest you find a story you enjoy and leave mine alone. Flames will be ignored... period. Again, constructive criticism is welcome as I'm working to improve my skills but I will not tolerate flames or complaints about 'How you don't like the direction of the story or 'This character isn't like that!'.

Also, I am following the Black Eagles/Silver Snow path, so sorry to the Blue Lions or Golden Deer fans ahead of time.

So, my advice is just to hit the back button and either play the game or read another fic that is more to your liking. Thank you in advance and to those who enjoy this story, I appreciate any love and support you show as this story progresses. I aim to pace things out with side stories and paralogues whenever necessary. Byleth will take a slightly secondary role but I will do my best to remain faithful to the source material. While I am new to the Fire Emblem universe, my goal is to do my best with a franchise that I really enjoy.

I hope you enjoy the prologue!

Great Tree Moon

Prologue

"Screw them...!"

Manuela staggered through the streets with her head aching and her body feeling warm and tingly. The local tavern had finally had enough of the loud woman and kicked her out after narrowly avoiding a fight with a drunkard who had one too many from the bottom shelf. He had tried to flirt with the former diva only to end up flat-out rejected. To say that he didn't take kindly to Manuela's refusal of his company would be putting things mildly as she recalled him shouting obscenities about her appearance; a sore spot for the instructor.

One thing led to another, leading to Manuela shattering her glass over the man's head, knocking him out cold. Before his buddies could react, the bartender swiftly called for one of his workers to escort her out, caring more about his smashed mug than the safety of a beautiful woman. What did she expect from a town with blind men (according to her)?

But, Manuela didn't need their pity anyway! She was a renowned instructor and healer at the Officer's Academy; such a position was more than enough to merit respect and yet, they only saw her as a display of breasts and ass.

She only wished she'd finished her drink instead of wasting it on that pathetic excuse. Her brain was growing numb with each step, made worse by the realization that she was far from the castle grounds and without an attendant. Even now, her wandering only brought her to the stretching forest path that connected the town to the massive stronghold.

"Goddess..." she clutched her head, futilely trying to steady herself against a nearby tree. "Leave it to me to forget to request an escort! It's a wonder why none of the soldiers offered to accompany me. Don't they know that it is unsafe for a woman to be out this late by herself?"

Her lamentation was interrupted by a gust that forced the woman to wrap her mantle around her. The fur did little to ease the shivering that traveled up her long legs. This was no ordinary chill; Something was plaguing Manuela's mind as her eyes darted all around her for any signs of danger. The whistling air continued to taunt her, rattling the leaves as a warning to expedite her journey.

Manuela heeded this, quickening her pace down the lonely road. She cursed her inability to focus as the drinks returned with a haze. As the air filled with a howl, the instructor froze with wide eyes. No longer was her trembling caused by the chilly night, only the resounding call of beasts could lay claim to such an act. Fear merged with blurred vision was never a good combination on its own.

But a pair of bloody eyes made such a state far worse than she could imagine.

A wolf had found her, fangs bared at what it perceived to be its next meal. It stalked closer, rooting Manuela with its crimson gaze. Sparse beams of the moon above allowed her to see that its fur was black, perfectly blending with the shadows of the forest. The brunette dared not breathe until the need for air became too great. She recalled having a dagger hidden underneath her dress but with her (limited) knowledge of animals, she knew that the beast would be upon her before she could even come close to reaching for it.

I'll have to outsmart it... she surmised, narrowing her hazy glare in hopes of hiding her desperation.

The wolf didn't buy her ruse, slowly stalking forward, carefully advancing in tandem with the erratic gusts. Seeing her resolve mattered little when it could smell her dread. It licked its lips hungrily before finally launching forward.

Manuela expected this, dropping her form to avoid its lunge before breaking off into a run. She thanked the Goddess that the wolf crashed into a nearby tree, giving her a much-needed head start. Her hope faded immediately when a howl echoed throughout the forest, bouncing off the surrounding trees. Soon it was met with a growing chorus of clamors from its pack.

Thankfully, Manuela wasn't a novice in running in heels. While most would've staggered like a newborn doe, she was able to keep a steady pace toward the monastery, wincing via the pounding in her head. when one is being hunted by a pack of hungry animals, internal pain takes a backseat. She made a mental note to slow down her alcohol intake if she survived this ordeal.

One could only wonder how long such a declaration would last.

"Almost there...!" she gasped with a pained grin. The fortress known as Garreg Mach finally came into view, sparking Manuela to push past the burning in her body. She'd allow herself a nice bath and rest when she returned.

Such musings of a relaxing night were interrupted when she felt one of the wolves tackle her. She rolled painfully onto the moonlit fields as the wind was driven out of her lungs. Exhaustion instantly overcame her as the haze returned in full force. The malicious creatures were nothing short of blurred visuals of dark fur and sanguine orbs.

The one that broke her journey to freedom was joined by its pack, each one more ferocious than the last. Manuela scowled deeply at the group, muscles quivering as she steadily picked herself to her feet. She gingerly drew the dagger this time, showing her pursuers that she was prepared to defend herself. Their response was to surround her, forcing Manuela to keep her head on a swivel at all times.

"Dammit...!" she hissed with growing frustration and panic. "I wish Byleth was here...! They'd know what to do!"

The snarling wolves began to close the gap, leaving the Adrestian with slimmer options for defense with each passing second. There was nobody from the monastery coming to rescue Manuela. No stranger would aid her, not without putting a price tag for their assistance, at least.

No, it was a loud growl that forced even the pack to cease their advance. Their heads turned to the forest behind her before abruptly backing away. Catching their weakened growls, Manuela dared to turn the source. What she spotted was a giant fox, one far more muscular than the average breed. A dark violet accented the dark abyssal coat of fur as if it was illuminated by magic. She marveled at its swaying tails and blazing silver eyes as they rushed toward her.

I must be drunker than I thought! her mind concluded as glowing remnants floated behind the passing creature. She managed a glimpse of the fierceness behind its gaze before it passed by, leaving her with many questions yet only a single answer for her troubles.

Rest.

As if hearing the deep voice, the former songstress felt a gentle wave of serenity fill her body. Its power was undeniable as she was lulled into a slumber, gently dropping to the soft earth below into a deep sleep. Was this its way of finishing her off? Could it be a compassionate way of meeting her inevitable fate without suffering?

Whatever it was, the last thing Manuela could recall was the cries of pain from the wolves that sought her out. What fate awaited her, she'd meet it with a sleepy grin.

"Honestly, Manuela?!" Boomed the voice of her colleague, Hanneman. His annoying self-righteous tone was enough to make Manuela want to claw her eyes out as he astutely traversed the halls beside her and Byleth. "Of all the excuses you have given in the past, this one has to be the most absurd one you've conjured to date! You should count yourself lucky that Lady Rhea has called us to discuss an addition so you can nurse your hangover instead of fumbling through your dismal attempts at scraping together a lesson."

The instructor of the Black Eagles puffed out her cheeks, stubbornly preparing to unleash a furious verbal assault on the dignified man only to stop short when Byleth place a hand on her shoulder, brandishing a ghost of a smile.

"Hanneman, whether you believe me or not is irrelevant. I know what I saw and you even noted the scratches on my back! My story carries merit."

"While I acknowledge the injury you sustained," the monocle-wearing man huffed dismissively. "It does NOT validate your ludicrous assertions of some mystical beast saving you from a gathering of wolves!"

"Can you explain my miraculous escape and return to the monastery?"

"Absolutely! After you collapsed from having too much to drink, you finally collapsed. The wolves, thinking you to be an easy meal now, took one whiff of you and fled from the overwhelming stench of alcohol. You woke up shortly and stumbled back inside with the help of one of the guards who was so feeble-minded to fall prey to your 'charm' only to pass out in that wasteland you call a room. Simple."

The brunette's eyes flared with rage at the man who refused to engage her visually. Meanwhile, the stoic Byleth stood by quietly while her colleagues continued their banter. It was equal parts entertaining and worrying as they traded more barbs with each other. However, she too was concerned when they received the news of Lady Rhea's summon. Her father, Jeralt, had quietly warned her about the woman so anything that came directly from her always warranted caution.

"I wonder what the archbishop wanted to see us about? From Seteth's letter, it must be important."

"Perhaps we have a new addition to the ranks?" Manuela let out a chuckle. "If they're as pleasant as you, Professor, I could use another distraction from Mr. Stick-in-the-"

"That's quite enough, Manuela! But, I must agree that any addition to the monastery would be a boon, especially if there's the chance of discovery down the road."

Manuela rolled her eyes at Hanneman's tautology about crests and the proficiency they hold, though not without a smirk. Despite their disputes, she greatly cared for the old man. For as much as he annoyed her, she couldn't deny that he too cared for her, sometimes to a fault. She continued to listen to his ramblings even though her mind continued to wonder about that night.

Specifically, the celestial fox that seemingly came to her rescue. She never got to finish her experience with the two before Hanneman interjected with his (undesired) opinion. She didn't bother trying to return to it but to say that it was merely a dream or haze from her drunken state couldn't be farther from the truth.

I know what I saw...

The pleasant breeze flowed around her, bringing warmth and knowledge to Manuela. She felt this only once, just before meeting the Eisners. She shook it away, figuring it was nothing more than her imagination; how can memory be replicated?

Hanneman opened the door to the church, allowing the ladies to enter. The majestic scenery was merely a symbol of familiarity for Manuela when she spotted the archbishop and her right hand, Seteth. Seeing the green-haired figures, their authority veiled by gentleness and stoicism respectively, she pondered what would await them before noticing the others in the room.

"Ah, Professors! I'm glad that you could finally come." Seteth crossed his arms with a faint frown.

"Forgive our tardiness!" Hanneman bowed respectfully. "We needed to address our students about the change in plans before arriving!"

"It's quite alright. Seteth is just being a little extra conservative today."

"Lady Rhea! Please..."

"Relax Seteth," the Archbishop serenely smiled at her subordinate. "I'm merely keeping things light. However, we do have pressing matters to attend to right now. I've called you all today to confer the acquisition of a new member of the Officer's Academy."

Manuela frowned softly, confusion washing her features. She finally took notice of the other members assembled behind an unknown figure. She identified Jeralt, Byleth's father and reunited member of the Knights of Seiros standing alongside a tall and burly blond, and a slim fair-skinned woman. Catherine was a devout follower of Rhea, standing tall with a challenging grin. Shamir, the latter, held a calm, almost unreadable face.

"This is Kaede Seishin..." Rhea extended a hand. Manuela took notice of the hooded man, his caramel skin made him stand out immediately. His hair resembled serpents that mirrored the earth itself. He stood about six feet, two inches tall, and had a slender yet athletic build. "He has agreed to lead our young students in the art of strategy and mental preparedness on the battlefield. He will also work with our knights from time to time to bolster our ranks."

"It is an honor to guide the future of Fodlan. Thank you."

Manuela felt a shiver overtake her after hearing his voice. It was a mix of temperate and power that she loved in a man, concealing him enough for her to deem him a mystery. A small sigh left her lips at the prospect, lewd thoughts immediately beginning to form in her devious mind. Such formality showed that he had been trained in proper etiquette though his attire revealed that he was accustomed to traveling. Perhaps, he was a mercenary, very much like Byleth and Jeralt?

She could tell by his appearance that he was not a native of any of the three main royal countries, at least not the Empire or Kingdom. Once more, Manuela took notice of his clothes and eliminated the Alliance. Such an enigma he was that she didn't notice that he had moved to introduce himself to the others. Being so wrapped up in marveling at his physical features would have that effect on a woman, especially one as... observant as Manuela.

Too bad her observation skills flinched slightly when the man stood before her, his hand extended to her.

"And your name is...?" he smiled from beneath his hood.

"I um... I'm Manuela," she blushed softly, biting the inside of her jaw. "I am... I..."

"You're a professor, a physician, and a songstress...! Should I add the 'available' part, or is that too much?"

Manuela cut her glare toward Hanneman before accepting Kaede's hand. From the first touch, she felt something flow into her; Nothing like the spark that many like to talk about, but as if a subtle breeze had kissed her face on a warm day. She could feel goosebumps rising along her arm even after he released his hold.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Ms. Casagrande!" he beamed softly. "I hope we can get along well together."

The pleasure is all mine!

Though her mind replied swiftly, her lips remained curved into a subtle grin. Usually, Manuela was quick to the draw with her charm and wit and yet, she was reduced to a mere simper before watching the hooded man depart with the archbishop and her advisor. Being on the receiving end of such feelings made her stomach flutter as a warmth settled in her chest.

Manuela carried those feelings throughout the day after leaving the church, waltzing quickly to the room while ignoring the messy wasteland it'd become after years of neglect, at least according to Hanneman. With a little more time to process before the start of classes, she took deep breaths to steady her nerves. Such techniques did little to aid her though as she found her mind replaying the moment he locked eyes on her.

Though his hood concealed most of his features, there was one trait that gave Manuela a sense of familiarity.

Those dashing silver eyes...

A shadow of a moan passed her lips as she recounted the shimmering orbs pointed at her. Visions and thoughts flooded her mind as she shifted on her plush bed, savoring the lucid moments. Her chest heaved and her breath caught in her throat as the man known as Kaede drew closer, looming over her as if she were his prey. Many men had been the subject of fantasy, a knight transitioning from gentleman to beast, but this was the first time she'd had one this realistic.

His breath caressed her neck.

A smile that melted her defenses.

Even his fingers ignited fire along any part of her that fell victim to his touch.

"Manuela..."

She could even imagine his voice calling out to her as if each syllable was a means of worship. She bit her lip gently, craving him to say it once again. Her stomach twisted in knots, pressure building up, begging for release.

"Manuela?"

"Yes... I'm here..." she eked out, her voice faltering under the visual's commanding tone.

"Are you ill, Manuela?!" the woman's eyes shot open in horror at the sudden realization. It wasn't the voice of the warrior she met earlier, but that of her colleague. Thankfully, it wasn't Hanneman. Spirits only knew how she'd react if he'd heard her in such a way. "Manuela?"

"I'm..." she cleared her throat, hoping to salvage some form of dignified tone. Thankfully, it was enough to silence the knocks. "I'm fine! I just need a moment!"

Manuela fixed herself as best as she could before rushing to a mirror. After fixing her hair, she reached for the door, opening it to find the short knight peering in with a heavy frown. His worry slowly melted away when she slipped out with her signature grin, though not to her liking.

"Ah, how may I help you, Alois? You aren't hurt are you?"

The man shook his head, tilting his head in apprehension before handing her a letter. Opening the envelope, her eyes scanned the contents only to stop upon a very intriguing section. Alois didn't miss this and frowned even more.

"Is everything alright? I thought I heard noises from your room earlier."

Currently, she was preoccupied with what she was reading, silently pondering if she'd been handed this by mistake. She continued to read the letter repeatedly in seconds but it didn't seem real. Only when she finally caught sight of the man again did Manuela finally address him, if only to rid herself of the distraction.

"My apologies, Alois. It appears that the archbishop has issued an official notice about the new addition to the monastery. Kaede Seishin; I believe that is his name, correct?"

"Yes...! Captain Jeralt told me briefly about the young man."

"According to this, he's being brought in to work with the academy as well as the Knights of Seiros," her news was shocking enough to cause the man's jaw to drop. It wasn't without good reason as such a position was reserved for only the best and most devoted warriors of the church. For an outsider to be granted such a privilege was rare. "You'll have to forgive my silence earlier. I'm just as shocked as you are."

Ever the optimist, Alois bounced back, sporting his infectious smile. This was a boon to Manuela's cause as he mentioned something about trusting Lady Rhea's decision and seeking to welcome the young man formally. She 'attempted' to ponder further yet he was a good distance away, leaving the instructor to return to her reading.

Given her time as a member of the Mittlefrank Opera Company, the Divine Songstress prided herself on maintaining her acting skills despite the condition. Between her overactive imagination and Alois' suspicions, Manuela finally released the tightness in her shoulders as a nervous smile crept its way to her lips. She ventured back to her room, shutting the door behind her and sighing heavily.

For Kaede to be welcomed as a member of the Knights of Seiros, it was clear that there was something special about him. However, there was more to the letter than what she let on; the very reason for her sudden shift in attitude. Unlike Byleth, the warrior was going to work as a member of the teaching staff, directly under her. Such a decision made Manuela scratch her head, but that was something she'd focus on later.

"Miss Casagrande?"

She didn't speak this time, not recognizing the voice this time around. By the sounds of metal clanking, she assumed it was one of the many soldiers she'd met throughout her time here. After a few moments of silence, she felt something brush against her feet; another letter. As the sounds of metal armor faded, Manuela reached for the parchment.

"Another rejection letter, I presume?" she asked no one, ripping the envelope open. True to her assumption, it was from a young knight by the name of Victor. Seeing this left a sour taste in her mouth, but a release in her stomach as he was the one she was supposed to meet at the bar the other night. However, something felt different about this renunciation. "Oh well... His loss, I guess."

Manuela, while a little hurt, didn't dwell on this too much. Instead, she chose to focus on the prospect of her future assistant, or would it be a partner? Either way, the idea was delightful in her mind as she continued to read the words, digesting them until she was certain the reality of things stuck in her head.

"Mr. Seishin..." she mused, clutching the letter to her chest. She recalled the statement he made upon his introduction and beamed. "...I hope so too."