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:

Harpstring Moon

White Clouds

Chapter 3: Call to a Valkyrie-1

The moon shined bright above the monastery, unrestrained by the clouds below. The air was calm and serene, a precursor for the incoming season of growth and music; a time of joy and new beginnings. While the children slept in their chambers, only the adults remained awake. Many like Hanneman were busy with an upcoming week's lesson plan while Byleth was content with training with some of the knights.

Manuela had other plans.

Like her colleagues, the songstress had a nightly routine that revolved around exaggerated expectations and demoralizing actuality. Her heels echoed through the halls of the monastery, coupled with her grumblings related to another disappointing evening. Eyes ablaze, words like "Stupid man" and "Lecherous fool" would soon join the depressing revelry as she passed through the courtyard. Huffing her dismay raised the awareness of anyone who crossed paths with her. While she was grateful that no one said anything to her, Manuela could pick up the aura of pity radiating from them.

Normally, she wouldn't be so out of it, but between an ill-fated "date", if one would call it that, the overwhelming stench of the mercenary destroyed whatever desire for booze she might have had. It was for the best as he was going on about taking her to the nearby inn.

What is wrong with me? she lamented, chewing her bottom lip. Another horny jerk looking for a quick lay...

As she was lost in her thoughts, her eyes caught a familiar face sitting in the courtyard. In that instant, the former diva had forgotten about her woes as she felt drawn to approach the young male.

"Kaede?" she whispered as if mistaking his distant presence for a mirage.

Indeed, her suspicions were correct as she noticed him in a grassy area, legs crossed and his bare back straight. While he wasn't as large as the knight she attempted to court, there was no denying the muscles that shined under the moonlight. Manuela almost felt her throat hitch as her mind began to orchestrate unsavory visuals for her to enjoy, if not now, certainly later.

Thoughts of being held in his arms; Manuela's fingers outlining one of the myriad of scars that decorated his terra-firma-laced body. She'd take that cute puzzled expression right now if I could feel his searing gaze on her. Lust started to creep up her spine, willing to completely corrupt her as she bit her lip. Her lone saving grace came when she observed the unwary Laguz shifting and steered behind a nearby column for sanctuary. Soon, more daydreams began to emerge as her heart slammed into her ribcage, bringing a warm sensation from her abdomen.

"Easy Manuela."

It took a few minutes to steady herself while she repeated this until she could finally gather her thoughts. When she dared to peek around the granite defender, it appeared that he had returned to her meditation, much to her delight. He hadn't noticed it was her disturbing his moment of solitude. If only such a benevolent sentiment was genuine.

"Professor Manuela?" The woman could've jumped out of her skin when she heard another voice fill her senses. She had to clamp a hand over her face to avoid squealing in terror. Thankfully, she was in no immediate danger as her eyes fell upon two women, one tall and the other short. "Are you okay? You didn't come back drunk again, did you?"

"Oh, it's just you, Catherine. Shamir."

"It seems she still has her wits," the archer shrugged, a ghost of a grin dancing on her pale features.

Manuela leaned against the stone pillar as the alarm expression gave way to annoyance. She hated when others would point out her drinking habit, especially when she hadn't had more than a sip this time around. Sensing her irritation, the boisterous knight took note of the woman's posture, carefully taking in the mildest details of how Manuela averted her eyes to the rose hue nestled on her face. Catherine was no fool. It was the same look she'd sneak whenever the archbishop graced them with her presence.

When she turned her gaze to the empty square, she realized the reason for the elder woman's current state. Dark brown skin that radiated beneath the moonbeams. Ears of a fox and a tail to match. He was the newest stray that Rhea allowed to reside in the sanctuary of Garreg Mach.

"I never knew the courtyard had such a view."

"Yes... Yes, the moon looks tonight," the songstress' voice trailed off, hoping to distract herself from the obvious issue. Unknowingly this only succeeded at fueling the knight's earlier suspicions. "It's rare to see such a luminescent sight!"

Manuela's assertions failed to sway either of the women, but Shamir was not in the mood to force the issue. But Catherine was always up for a challenge, utilizing the circumstance and her curiosity as inspiration to keep playing.

"Eh, you've seen one moon you've seen 'em all!"

"I find that doubtful, Catherine!" Manuela lifted a skeptical brow at the armored woman.

"Since when have you ever taken time for something so trivial?" Shamir added, her grin growing more obvious now. "Other than your urge to please Rhea, your entire life seems to revolve around battle and swordsmanship."

"LADY Rhea-!"

"I rest my case. You always turn into some sort of zealous schoolgirl whenever she's brought up, for better or worse. You're hopeless."

It was Catherine's turn to feel that well-known heat beginning to smolder beneath her cheeks. While Manuela had many things to keep her mind occupied, Shamir had none to divert her own from the knight's excessive attitude. The object of the songstress' curiosity seemed to disappear at this point, leaving only the manicured lawn to soak up the moonbeams. Manuela excused herself, discouraged, and the exchange of thoughts between the two continued.

As she neared her chambers, she couldn't help but take the long way around, passing the knight's barracks. While some were on guard duty, she was content to find that the halls were quiet. Only the flickering flames of the torches and her heels dared to break the tranquil silence. With a sigh, Manuela allowed her feelings to show finally.

Surely Manuela... Can't you do anything right?

While the disappointment of missing an opportunity to speak with the Laguz was daunting, the songstress still hadn't licked her wounds from the earlier events of the night. Once again, she couldn't entice someone to even have a simple conversation without them attempting to treat her like a common streetwalker. It was depressing, especially when the main culprits were supposed to be honorable soldiers.

She was Manuela Casagranda, the pride of the Mittelfrank Opera company!

She was the Divine Songstress!

"Stupid knights..." she huffed through puffed cheeks, stomping through the corridors. "Why is it so difficult to find someone capable of a simple drink and conversation?"

Because you secretly want more!

Before Manuela could counter her thoughts, her eyes noticed a familiar sight. With his hood down, there was no mistaking those vulpine ears as he walked toward her. He hadn't seen her as his nose was buried in a book, his tail swayed lazily as he combed through the contents.

"Kaede?!"

Her alarmed voice pulled him from the book he was reading and back to the present where he stood centimeters from her. His tail stood upright as wide silver eyes blinked at her.

"M-Manuela?!" he stumbled backward, almost tripping over his feet. "I'm sorry! I wasn't paying attention!"

Expecting her to be upset, the warrior was shocked to find her giggling at his awkwardness.

"It's quite alright. I was probably distracted myself if I'm being honest. What are you doing up so late?"

"Well, I've been given a mission by the archbishop and I was brushing up on the area before making preparations. There are rumors of a traitor to the church located within the southern temple. Seteth mentioned that they're using some form of magic to commit atrocities under the guise of the 'goddess wrath'. I'll be leaving in a few days."

"Alone?"

With a remorseful expression, Kaede closed the book and shrugged. He succeeded in concealing this, but his splayed ears and tucked tail couldn't. The repentant male came under his colleague's anxious gaze for the first time since they had initially met. For years, he was unaffected by such a look; those critical glances from people who thought he was a monster meant nothing to him. But this was something different.

"I... I don't know yet. Seteth just told me not too long ago so, I'm still waiting on the details."

"I see."

"Is there something wrong? I should be back to help with the Black Eagles."

Kaede's news took Manuela aback. He was leaving for an assignment, which wasn't unusual, but she didn't know how to react at the moment. She felt a heart-wrenching pang in her chest at the thought of him leaving without any form of support, despite knowing each other for only a month. She felt as though she was about to lose a close friend.

"I don't like this," she turned her head, focusing on the faded glow of the moonlight. "It doesn't seem right to have you take on an entire church, small as it may be, without someone to accompany you. Even Professor Byleth is allowed to bring some members of the Blue Lions with her on missions."

"Be that as it may, I doubt that bringing an entire class would provide a proper result for a covert operation."

"You're referring to an assassination?"

Kaede's nod confirmed what Manuela already suspected. His eyes betrayed the truth behind her indictment. Whenever an order was given to "deal" with someone, it usually meant the end of their life. Knowing he was summoned to do the deed exposed his motivations for keeping silent on the details. However, Manuela was determined to uncover the truth and wasn't willing to give up easily.

"Still, you should have someone to join you on this mission. Besides, it could provide some of our students the opportunity to embrace the harsh truths of the world."

"Harsh truths?"

"Indeed!" Manuela chuckled softly. "Not everything will go as you plan and one must be prepared to adapt to such changes. Besides, with Professor Eisner and Catherine accompanying them, I'm afraid I would be more of a liability than an asset. Plus, with nobody in the infirmary, these halls would prove dreadfully boring."

Kaede was sharp; he knew that Manuela was concealing something more. Still, there was some truth to her words. While he was adept with knowledge of Fodlan, there were many mysteries the continent withheld from him.

"Can you fight?"

"Excuse me?" she raised a cautionary brow. "Are you implying that I'm incapable of defending myself?"

"Not at all!" Kaede's face jolted into bewilderment and alarm as the woman placed both hands on her hips. "It was only a question... One spoken out of ignorance, it seems..."

Manuela's scowl soon melted into a somber one as she raised a hand to massage her forehead. It appeared that the results of her night out had finally caught up to her. That familiar dizziness reared its ugly head, sending the woman forward as she tripped over her feet. Oh, how grateful she was that the Laguz was there to catch her.

"Are you alright?"

Manuela was puzzled. She had barely taken a sip of her drink before leaving the pub in town. Why did she feel this way all of a sudden?

Manuela's lips were about to utter a response when a sharp pain struck her head, leaving her unable to speak anything more than a frustrated groan. The familiar consequence of her recklessness had returned, forcing her to endure the agony. It wasn't poison, though. It was something else. She decided to confront the one responsible for causing this pain soon enough. Nonetheless, she was grateful for Kaede's presence. Without him, she might have collapsed unconscious on the cold cobblestone.

"Ugh..." she groaned softly, feeling her cheeks warm against his chest. "Head..."

Hearing this, Kaede thought back to some earlier conversations he had overheard since arriving at the monastery. Manuela's affinity for dating and drinking woes was well documented throughout Garreg Mach. Though these talks were unflattering at best, the Laguz did his best to shake them off. The more pressing matter saw him scoop her into his arms, making sure to be careful to avoid rattling her.

Kaede was relieved to have arrived at Manuela's room without being spotted by any guards. Being seen would cause more problems than he needed at the moment. He quickly made his way through the cluttered space and gently laid Manuela down on the bed. After tucking her in, he allowed her to rest comfortably under the blanket.

He kept a close eye on the groggy woman to ensure that she was okay. Gone was the pained expression, replaced by a peaceful simper as a smile formed on her lips.

"Looks like you're feeling better..."

As Kaede saw her, he couldn't help but smile. While Manuela had a reputation for being flirtatious, this rare side of her was the complete opposite. Unlike before, her vulnerability was accompanied by an innocence that left him smiling as he turned to leave. However, as he felt something tug on his jacket, he pivoted back to find Manuela's hand firmly gripping him.

Even in her slumber, her grasp was firm.

"Manuela?"

"Mmm... Stay..." she sniffled through a broken tone. "Please?"

Kaede was certain that Manuela wasn't fully conscious, yet she held on as if she were. The half-fox tried his best to wriggle free but to no avail. The only way to get free would leave one of us with more bruises than we'd like... he sighed in resignation.

A yawn passed his lips and pushed him to follow through with the drowsy request. He silently removed his jacket and undershirt, folding them neatly atop a stack of books. Afterward, he gingerly eased the woman across the bed until there was enough room for them both. Manuela instinctively huddled closer to him, resting her head on his chest.

Kaede used his free hand to move tufts of her hair from her face.

She smells like lilacs...

Just then, she began to snore.

And snores like a beast.

The morning brought with it a chorus of chirps from the birds. Each one was a peaceful sound for one to awaken to. The many students and staff were grateful to hear the chorus of songs from the avians as they shuffled to their designated rooms.

Manuela, meanwhile, stumbled into the kitchen hall clutching her head. Unlike the others, she cared little for the joyous symphony right now. Her head was still throbbing from the hangover afflicting her and the churning inside her stomach. The only Through blurred vision, she managed to reach the counter. It wasn't all foul though. She had woken up alone in her room, but she felt the presence of another lingering.

"Give me whatever you got to cure this headache... Preferably something strong."

"Would tea suffice?"

The voice came from none other than the advisor to the archbishop. Of all the staff, he was the last person she needed to see, especially given her condition. His judgmental stare left her feeling like a helpless child who'd been caught in the act. Despite this, the green-haired man calmly handed a cup of the warm liquid. The scent of fruit and spices instantly hit her nose, reminding Manuela of tropical locales.

"You're a dear, Seteth!" she chuckled in between sips of the fragrant liquid. "My head feels so much better."

"Yes. Be that as it may, your students await your instruction. I'm sure your aid would appreciate your contributions."

"Are you insinuating that my colleague isn't up to the task of providing educational advantages to the Black Eagles? Such an assumption can leave one with a bitter taste, Seteth." she quipped with a playful wink.

The right hand of Garreg Mach was not phased as shown by him crossing his arms.

"While I'm sure you would like to believe such bibulous absurdities, I would urge you to remember that Kaede's efforts are mainly for combat. On top of that, he is soon to depart as soon as Lady Rhea gains enough information. Your students would greatly benefit by having their actual teacher present before they leave for their next mission."

Manuela ceased her drinking, eyeing the astute man cautiously. While most were content with the neutral air behind his words, she was not fool enough to ignore the warning veiled behind his concern. If the archbishop was a woman of forgiveness and second chances, Seteth was one for discipline and cutting loose ends as soon as possible. While her job wasn't in jeopardy, she knew that this was a subtle warning.

"Rest assured, I have everything under control. The students are more than prepared for whatever challenges may lay ahead." she put on a gracious smile, grabbing a plate of smothered sausage and potatoes. "If you'll excuse me, I must eat. I can't properly instruct the young minds on an empty stomach, can I?"

Seteth huffed softly but nodded without another word. Manuela, meanwhile, enjoyed the solitude, savoring the juicy links and flavorful sauce. It only took a minute for her to finish the meal, yet her mind would prove to need more time to adjust. After returning her plate to the cook, the thoughts of the songstress grew to manic proportions, mainly on one particular moment.

Last night...?

If she was honest, Manuela recalled leaving another failed date, returning to the monastery, and conversing with Catherine and Shamir. After that, she briefly spoke with the handsome mercenary, and then...

Did he bring me to my room? Such a gentleman and... and... Her musings then gave way to widening eyes at a sudden realization that brought dread to her heart. He's probably seen my room! HE'S BEEN IN MY ROOM!

"Oh, goddess..."

[Afternoon]

Kaede sat comfortably in the greenhouse, taking in the sounds and visuals with an enlightened heart. Aside from the occasional gardener, he was at peace with the nature-themed room. Ever since he woke up, he'd been bombarded by the students, many asking about his heritage while others were more interested in his battle style. The most unnerving came when some young ladies began gawking about how 'attractive' he was, particularly the brunette, Dorothea.

Whether they realized it or not, his sensitive ears picked up every hush murmur.

He'd endure the talks while awaiting Manuela only to end up teaching the entire class through combat training. The male took into account the proficiency of each one, mentally noting their strengths and weaknesses.

"Miss Edelgard is probably the strongest physically. Petra is certainly the fastest and most agile in my opinion," he mused, gently lifting the petal of a green flower. "While very timid, Bernadetta is certainly a master archer."

"Are you sure that you have time to waste on vegetation and flowers?" a tactful voice made the male's ear twitch underneath his hood. "I'm certain that if you had time to spend gawking at greenery, you would have spoken with the archbishop about your next mission by now."

Of course... No one else but Seteth could conjure such frustrating amounts of self-righteousness in only a few sentences. Kaede was in no mood to put up with this, but the second in command was not one for being kept waiting on matters, especially when it came to the woman in question.

"A warrior's mind must be as sharp as their blade or else the dullness will be his undoing."

"Excuse me?"

"Forgive me for taking a moment to breathe and collect my senses... It would be unbecoming of a warrior to enter the battlefield with a fractured mind. Such a hindrance could be the difference between success and failure; Life and death, to be precise."

The male's entry into the greenhouse was accompanied by a sudden, disruptive burst of dark and ominous energy which overwhelmed the peaceful aura of the surroundings. The second-in-command had never experienced such an intense and evil force emanating from a person. It was as if a creature from the depths of the underworld had temporarily taken over the mercenary's body, before abruptly vanishing.

"You need not worry, Seteth," the Laguz stood to his feet, turning to face the shocked chief aide. "Give me a moment to collect my blade and I'll meet with Lady Rhea. Or, would you prefer I leave now without my arms to protect me?"

"I... I believe... You can retrieve any items necessary afterward. Lady Rhea... I... She believes that once you have the details, you'll be able to plan out your next move. She's hoping that you will meet her at the church. I could escort you or..."

Seteth tried his best to maintain a stern glare in response to Kaede's look. It was the only thing that kept him from collapsing where he stood. Her silver eyes held a fierce intensity, but there was also a sense of innocence behind them that bewildered him. It was evident that Kaede wasn't attempting to intimidate him despite the succession.

"I can find my way, Seteth. Thank you."

With a lift of his hood, the Laguz stepped past, leaving the aide to contemplate their brief conversation. All that mattered now was seeing to whatever the archbishop needed of him. While it was only a short time since his arrival, he couldn't shake the uneasiness he felt around the green-haired woman. He was certain that he'd never feel any different around her, no matter how much time passed.

Kaede felt his body hair stand on end every time he was in the same room with this person. However, he saw this as a blessing since he preferred to stay alert. He continued walking and noticed some students passing by, laughing cheerfully. Observing their blissful ignorance amused him, and he chuckled light-heartedly as he entered the courtyard.

"The bliss of youth..."

"Hey, you!"

Kaede's introspections were once again ruined when a boisterous tone called him. He shifted on the ball of his foot and noticed a blond-haired woman approaching. He recognized her right away as one of the Knights of Seiros. Her armor and style differed from the traditional soldiers tasked with protecting the monastery, that incredibly upbeat attitude separated her from the others.

"Can I help you with something, Catherine? I was just on my way to meet with Lady Rhea, and I'm running late."

"What a coincidence!" the woman crossed her arms, flashing a half grin. "I'm headed in that direction myself! Come on. I'm sure she'll be happy to see us both!"

As Kaede attempted to dispute with the woman, she suddenly wrapped her arm around his neck and led him towards the church. He was relieved it was a short distance, but he still struggled to get out of the armored woman's grip and constant chatter. He wasn't used to being around someone so festive and lively, especially as a beast man. Fortunately, they soon arrived at the church and entered with as much professionalism as they could manage.

Kaede opened the door, allowing his traveling companion to enter, though not with an exaggerated bow from Catherine that he admitted was amusing. When they made it into the main chamber, there stood the one who summoned them.

Rhea smiled gently at the pair, though the Laguz knew better than to take this at face value.

The halls of the monastery were filled with the frantic clicking of heels. Normally, such a sound would be trailed by the errant discord of Hanneman and Manuela snapping at one another. This time, only a soft murmur, barely audible to those she passed, would accompany her speedy movements.

How could I have been so reckless?! She shook her head in horror, hastily passing through a group of hapless soldiers. "Manuela... Manuela, you foolish girl!"

The solo admonishing persisted, dragging her deeper into a pool of mental sludge.

Manuela Casagranda, who was known for her confidence and grace, was currently in a state far from her usual demeanor. It was not uncommon to lose composure when one was under the influence of either attraction or intoxication. However, the former songstress-turned-teacher wanted nothing more than to reach her room and crawl into bed, hoping to forget the morning's dismal affair.

"Maybe a shower would help clear my mind? Goddess knows I could use a moment of... Oof!"

Amid her mental tirade, Manuela wasn't looking where she was going, landing on top of something sturdy. As if she wasn't embarrassed enough. Shaking off the cobwebs, the woman reached for anything to regain her footing only to brush against something soft... Something fluffy?

Oh, dear...!

"Sorry about that," her body drew still, allowing only a shiver to rush through her body. "Are you okay? You're not hurt are you?"

Kaede shifted under her, propping them both into a seated position. Manuela still didn't move, remaining curled up against him, her face pressed against his chest. She caught his pulse had hastened, probably due to his concern for her wellbeing. She was partially correct as his eyes studied her position. Resting in his arms, she was like a child nestled in the security of their parent.

However, he couldn't deny how precious she appeared. He smiled softly while his mind revisited the morning. Before he left, Kaede couldn't help but appreciate such a rare moment. To see her in such an intimate position was a blessing, rivaled only by her fluttering gaze now.

"Uh... No!" she abruptly pushed away, fixing her clothes in the process. "I mean... I'm not hurt. It was my fault we bumped into each other! I should've been watching where I was going. My apologies."

"No apologies necessary," he rose to his feet, his grin remaining.

As Manuela stood across from him, she couldn't help but notice the awkward silence that enveloped everything around her. Even the chirping of birds outside seemed hesitant to break the stillness. It was clear that fate had chosen to make this day more uncomfortable than usual for her. However, Manuela was a determined person and did not want to back down, despite how she was feeling. She knew it would be difficult, but she was willing to face it head-on.

"Kaede, I just... I wanted to..."

"Kaede!" The pair turned around toward the voice. "Good. I was hoping to catch you before you set off."

"Lady Rhea?!"

Manuela's eyes widened at the unexpected sight before her. The archbishop, in her full regalia, was meandering through the drab barrack halls with an air of otherworldliness. Her presence was a striking contrast to the stark, utilitarian surroundings, making the former opera singer feel as if she had been transported into a different realm. Despite her purpose for being there, Rhea couldn't help but linger for a moment to observe the surreal spectacle unfolding before her. As she watched, she instinctively pressed her hand to her lips, as if to contain the gasp that threatened to escape.

"Manuela," she bowed her head. "My apologies if I'm interrupting."

"Not... Not at all! I was just leaving!"

As Manuela stepped past them, the leader of Garreg Mach and the half-fox warrior were left alone, feeling the atmosphere shift around them. The once magnificent ambiance now felt heavy and tense once her footsteps could no longer be heard, making Kaede's throat go dry. He watched as the woman turned her head to glance at the spot where the physician had just been, before returning her gaze to her shining mark.

"Perhaps you would be kind enough to share with me the truth. From the look of things, I'd guess it was important."

Though Rhea's tone was sweet and apologetic, the vulpine could tell there was something else thinly veiled behind her words. While he still only knew a fraction about her, Kaede's instincts implored him to play his cards close to his chest, especially after their meeting.

"To be honest, Archbishop, your guess would be as good as mine" he sighed, crossing his arms. "We bumped into each other and... I think she was about to apologize before you arrived. She appeared a little off."

Rhea studied him but found no deceit in his voice. His posture, while he was visibly concerned about whatever happened before her arrival, there was no lie to be found. Rhea was excellent at reading others, including those with a complete lack of trust in her, so sensing no deception.

"Very well," she resumed her royal stance. "Would I be correct in trusting you with what we spoke about before?"

"...yes..."

"...and do you understand the reasons? It would be unwise to build up hope with no guarantees in place; If you were to decide to depart, it would serve only to complicate things further than they already are. Your actions, while noble and innocent, could disrupt the order we've established at the monastery."

"You made some points, Lady Rhea. That's why..."

"You're preparing to depart early?"

"If I return in enough time, I may be able to accompany the Black Eagles on their mission to Castle Gaspard."

"There will be plenty of missions for you to accompany them. For now, remember your target will be found in a nearby village along the border of Faeghus. A former lord with ties to an insurrection group must be removed. May the Goddess protect you on your journey."

"Am I to bring him as proof of my success?"

"Whether in this life or the next, his soul will pay penance for his blasphemy."

As Kaede prepared to leave, he bowed his head in a gesture of respect. But his previous sense of ease quickly dissipated when Rhea placed a hand on his shoulder, causing a sickening feeling to resurface within him. He gazed into her green eyes, perplexed by this unexpected interaction. However, before he could say anything, she let go of him and continued on her way towards the church. As he watched her depart, Kaede was left with a bitter taste.

So, is that your angle?

The sun had set, and darkness had engulfed the sky. Kaede, a brave Laguz warrior, found himself miles away from Garreg Mach. He had been traveling for hours, and the nearest town was still a day's ride away. As he pitched his tent and settled in for the night, he couldn't shake off the feeling of restlessness. Despite having plenty of rations and a well-rested horse, he felt a sense of unease in the air. What could be causing this feeling of impending danger? Kaede couldn't comprehend it, but he knew he had to stay alert and ready for anything that might come his way.

All he could do was stare at his campfire, finding the tiniest of solace as it lapped at the air. His sanity swiftly reminded him of his earlier meeting, though even this revelation drew an unpredictable response.

As he sat there, feeling uneasy, he assumed that it was his recent conversation with Rhea that was causing his discomfort. But strangely, it wasn't the image of the wise and commanding matriarch of the monastery that flashed before his eyes. Instead, he was haunted by the memory of soft brown eyes, filled with a yearning to confide something to him. It was as if everything between him and this person had shifted dramatically after they had spent an unexpected night together. Even though it was unplanned, their encounter seemed to have left an indelible mark on him.

"That's it! Maybe I made her upset after just disappearing," he lamented and poked the fire. "I should probably apologize to Manuela. If she thinks I ditched her after last night, no wonder she's been acting different."

"An interesting theory..."

Kaede jolted into a battle stance, his bow aimed in the direction of the voice. His eyes trained, he steadied himself for whomever or whatever was coming. Were they friends or foes? He couldn't afford to take a chance erratically, not with the task he'd been saddled with.

"Who's there? Show yourself!"

Kaede couldn't shake off the feeling of unease as he stood outside, staring into the darkness. He had a nagging suspicion that something was about to happen, and he couldn't quite put his finger on it. Suddenly, the sound of hooves clopping caught his attention, and he knew that the next few moments would be crucial. As the culprit emerged from the shadows, Kaede's suspicions were confirmed. He recognized the woman in the wine-red gown, and he could tell that she was hiding something. With her shoulder-length brown hair and matching eyes, she looked at him with a guilty smile on her face. As they stood there, illuminated by the flickering flames, Kaede couldn't help but wonder what secrets she was keeping and what events would unfold.

"Manuela?"