The 4 Houses: The Shambhala Prophecy

by FriendlyMushroom

AU. On Imperial Year 91, the battle of the Tailtean Plains took place, perhaps the most important day in Fódlan's story. But in one universe, the Wheel of Time changed something. One of the Four Saints reveled, one of the Four Saints defied Seiros, one of the Four Saints changed history, and unwillingly started an ancient prophecy. ClaudexByleth(F), DimitrixFlayn, EdelgardxShez(M).

3. Chapter 2: The Pact of the Four

I wasn't expecting this chapter to be as long as it ended up being. Before I continue, I want to thank you all, I know I only have one reviewer currently, but it made me happy to see 4 favorites, and 6 alerts. At any rate, lets continue:

Neonova1: Sure I am not strictly following the original story, but that doesn't mean some events won't repeat themselves, and I actually have two major storylines for this story that are mostly original, I was actually going to change the name of the story to give away one of the outcomes, but decided against it. By the way, the Shambhala Prophecy doesn't say much yet, but we will get into that on part 2 I promise. Three Houses got too many characters as to explore them all correctly, but I will do what I can. As for Monica, it was that or having Kronya as a student, the fact of being in need of students is also one of the reasons as to why Jeritza is a student and not a professor in this timeline (kind of didn't make sense he being a professor since Mercedes is actually older, but that's my opinion). Of course, Dimitri's and Claude's friendship is one of the main goals in this story, as for Edelgard, I'm exploring a different approach with her. I just though she and Claude had some kind of chemistry, not in the romance department mind you, but I can actually see them trying to outsmart one another, there was some of it by the beginning of Three Houses, the way Claude always made fun of her, and their alliance in Three Hopes, but I always believed it was that, a mutual admiration and need to prove one is better than the other one. Still, since this is an original storyline, I'm placing some major importance to subjects that were minor in Three Houses and Three Hopes. In medieval days there was a huge importance toward arranged marriages, Three Houses had that, but on support conversation level. I'm planning of having that "support level", being a main worry for this story, it's also the perfect excuse to start pairing building, so enjoy.

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Fire Emblem: The Shambhala Prophecy.

Part 1: White Clouds.

Chapter 2: The Pact of the Four.

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Garreg Mach Monastery. Abyss. I.Y. 1180. 23 of the Great Tree Moon.

Bellow Garreg Mach Monastery exists a peculiar place not known to many of the students living inside the city-size building. A place as gigantic as the monastery, consisting on chains of tunnels, some not even correctly documented, that were built bellow the Oghma Mountains. The place is so large that it could easily be called a city of its own, and in some ways it was, only it was a city of prisoners, war criminals, and nobles that stood in a way or another against the Church of Seiros.

-Hey, you. Listen up, I got something to report –protecting the entrance of this underground city, was a soldier who dressed more like a brigand, but who always kept the underground city safe-. The Knights of Seiros returned with another little present for us here in Abyss. A bandit leader named Kostas, but that's about everything we have been able to get out of him –explained the man at the entrance of Abyss, the name that was given to the underground city, as he greeted a mercenary woman, to whom he delivered a scroll with all the information they had gathered-. I went ahead and did some digging. Brigand leader, from the Empire, got some dirty contacts with the Monarchy. Three Titanus under his name. Alois captured him after he was trashed by some mercs who protected the 4 House Leaders. Oh, I suppose that is another thing to report, we got three new merry faces –he continued.

-You speak too much –the woman reading the scroll interrupted-. I used to complain about the Gatekeeper, but congrats, you are far worse… where is Kostas being held? –she asked with a cold stare, annoying the Abysskeeper.

-Seventh block, with the war criminals –the Abysskeeper added coldly, the woman nodded, and then left looking for the Brigand-. You speak too much, she said… -he complained, when another knight arrived, this one carrying a couple of vases with drinks-. Took you long enough, ! –he complained while snatching one of the vases.

-I told you many times already, is not my name. Would you like me to call you Abbysskeeper all the time? –the knight complained, and then noticed the woman calmly walking around the prison that was Abyss-. Was that Shamir? I do hope you didn't speak wrongly about her behind her back, she got a pretty good ear –the knight added.

-Reporting me, aren't you ? –the Abysskeeper complained-. I got enough with all the criminal scum I see every day as to have a Knight of Seiros criticizing me. This place is getting already really crowded with all the prisoners, now I have the Knights of Seiros telling me how to do my job. I say there are enough heads around here already, some should be chomped down –he complained and continued drinking his beer.

-The Church of Seiros does not execute criminals – mentioned, winning a cold glare from the Abysskeeper-. Ok, maybe the Church of Seiros does execute criminals, but it needs the vote of the 4 Bishops to do so in unanimity. Why, even when the Duscur Massacre happened, that noble, what was his name? Christoph Gaspard, who was charged with regicide, evaded the death penalty just because the Western Bishop voted against it –he explained.

-The Western Bishop again! That woman got this place packed with life-sentenced criminals! –the Abysskeeper complained-. I mean, this was a city once, did you know that? Of course not, because you, surface dwellers, just enjoy the beautiful sceneries from your balconies on the towers all around the monastery, while people like me have to deal with the worst of Fódlan's society because "killing is bad" –the Abysskeeper complained-. These prisoners need to be feed, and we, common folk, pay their food with our taxes. You want to save good gold and reduce taxes, get these life-sentenced fools to the chopping block –he insisted.

-Again, the Church of Seiros does not execute criminals – insisted-. Besides, killing them would be unproductive. Why do you think Shamir is here? Why do you think Alois took the bother of bringing Kostas all the way from Remire Village, to Garreg Mach? Death men tell no tales they say. Well, this Kostas can still tell tales –he finished, although the Abysskeeper wasn't convinced and was mostly annoyed.

-While the two peculiar guardians of Abyss remained in their discussion, Shamir, the Knight of Seiros that looked more like a mercenary than a knight, arrived to the prison block where Kostas was imprisoned, only when arriving, she felt uneasy.

-No guard? –she added calmly, and then her nose was hit with a peculiar odor-. I don't like this… -she continued, and then kicked the door of Kosta's imprisonment open, and what she found inside, was no surprise to her at all-. Abysskeeper! –Shamir yelled, the Abysskeeper spit his beer out because of the surprise, and rushed from his post to where Shamir was-. I want the names of all the guards that were supposed to be taking care of this prisoner, and clean this mess –she finished, and then left.

-Mess? –the Abysskeeper wondered, made it inside of the cell, and reacted in shock-. What? But this is impossible… Abyss is the securest prison in all Fódlan! Sound the alarm! ! Sound the alarm! –the Abysskeeper ordered, while inside, the death body of Kostas remained.

The Dining Hall.

-Claude, you are sleeping on your plate, and there is food still on it –unknowing anything that transpired in Abyss, Dimitri reunited with Claude on the Dining Hall just to find him with his face inside the matched potatoes. The leader of the Golden Deer house woke up, and cleaned his face, not even noticing the moment he fell asleep-. Are you well? Should I take you to the infirmary? –Dimitri wondered while placing his plate in front of him and taking a sit.

-And be embarrassed the way I was the last time you took me to the infirmary after one of your barbaric training sessions? Thanks but no thanks –Claude complained, took a handkerchief, and began cleaning his face.

-Oh, I would much likely enjoy seeing that once again –Edelgard mentioned while arriving with her breakfast, and sitting next to Claude-. Seeing Dimitri carrying you Claude, as if you were a princess, was a delight back then. And I have been patiently waiting for the day the event repeats –she added with a smirk.

-Ok that's fair. I can see how Dimitri carrying me princess style is amusing to you, Edelgard. Just let me know something –he smiled, Dimitri got a bad feeling about such smile-. What got you feeling more jealous, having me being carried by Dimitri because you find me amusing, or having me being carried by Dimitri because you wish it was you the one being carried by his strong and mainly arms –he finished, which in turn annoyed Edelgard.

-I was planning on allowing you to have of Hubert's bitter beverage to help with your current sleepy state, but seeing as you are, as always, making fun of me, perhaps I should drink it myself –Edelgard added while showing Claude a cup with the mentioned bitter beverage-. I know it's not of everyone's liking, but seeing as you just fell asleep on your plate, it could be helpful. All I ask, is for you to swallow your pride, and ask nicely –she insisted.

-Swallow my pride? That's easy. If you swallowed yours you would probably choke on it –Claude mentioned, Edelgard crossed her arms in disgust, both then faced one another with defiance, at least until Dimitri cleared his throat.

-Claude… -Dimitri began, Claude just rolled his eyes-. You are being rude and on the edge once again. We spoke of this yesterday, did we not? –Dimitri added, Edelgard found that topic of conversation amusing, and was even more surprised to find Claude breathing out in defeat.

-Yes Dimitri, we spoke about this yesterday –Claude admitted-. And I suppose you are technically half right in what you said. So, I will swallow my pride, and admit that I would be delighted to accept your offer, Edelgard, since you were so kind as to extend the offer in the first place. Unless you want me to kneel and beg, because if so, I still got some pride left –he finished.

-Oh… this… is a ratter pleasant surprise… of course you can have of Hubert's coffee –Edelgard added and then delivered the beverage to Claude, who faced it with disgust-. By experience, it is better if you place some sugar on it. Two or three spoons should suffice –she offered some.

-Well, well, what did I miss? –Yuri added while arriving with his own plate of food-. First, I hear about Claude kneeling, and then, Edelgard serves him coffee. I though you two despised one another, and now I am wondering if I will get a wedding invite –he grinned.

-That's not…! –Edelgard complained-. Good morning Yuri. It seems like one can't get over one problematic buffoon, before the other one arrives around here. And to make sure none of you think of me as someone who is only egotistical and imperialist, I thank you, Claude, for this cease in the hostilities. With that out of the way, I suppose I also share Dimitri's worries. Are you having problems sleeping? –she wondered.

-It's nothing to worry about. I just couldn't sleep because I had this uncalled for curiosity about the Western Church Bishop, that is all –Claude admitted, and then stretched his arms-. I'm afraid I got carried away with my investigation and forgot to care properly for my beauty rest. Also, a potato mask is good for the skin –he smiled.

-Jokes aside, that only works for dry skin –Yuri mentioned, and sat down next to Dimitri-. So, after so long, this society is actually looking like it will bear fruits. We have finally achieved peace on the Dining Hall, maybe there is future for peace in all Fódlan if this keeps up –he added.

-I agree –Dimitri mentioned with a smile-. When I told my retainer about the four of us agreeing to a common ground with no servitude at our side, Dedeu wasn't happy about it. He insisted to be close just in case. I think he thought you were all going to try to murder the crowned Prince of Faerghus and be done with one of the Four Nations –Dimitri joked.

-I am ashamed to say this, but Hubert did mention something like that –Edelgard added, Dimitri was surprised to hear such a thing-. "My Lady Edelgard, I shall advise against it. You can't ask me to leave you without proper protection in front of such greedy beasts. Prosper relations can't be forged sharing something so insignificant as a dinner. Perhaps I should dispose of them by poisoning their beverages" –she added while trying to imitate Hubert's voice, which both Yuri and Dimitri found funny, Claude just spit some of the coffee out-. Worry not, I wouldn't poison you Claude –she added once noticing what transpired.

-Hubert would… -Claude added while cleaning the mess, and then felt the demonical stare of Hubert, who was glaring at him from the distance at his own table shared with Monica, and also disgusted by the treatment to his coffee that was just spilled so rudely-. But leaving spooky retainers aside. That was a fascinating impersonation Edelgard, I didn't know you had a sense of humor –Claude added, Edelgard just faced him with concern for his words once again-. Woah there, no need for the disappointed stare, Hubert's rage filled one is more than enough, and that was a compliment. I am actually glad for you not been the ice-queen I took you for. I can grow to enjoy this side of yours –he blinked.

-Ever the flirty one, aren't you? –Edelgard replied-. Let's see you imitate your retainer then. I'm afraid that I still don't know who is supposed to be your retainer. I don't recall seeing anyone being your shadow –she wondered.

-Such is the cruel and sad life of yours truly –Claude mentioned-. But instead of telling you, I will comply just because I am finding this conversation fascinating and out of the ordinary. So let's see… -he began and then cleared his throat-. "I do not see the reason behind you thinking it would be proper to seek for my advice in this matter. If you are so insecure as to seek validation from another of the members of the Round Table, I assure you that you will find no validation or advise whatsoever from my part. The sole idea of you even thinking of reuniting daily with the true future leaders of the Empire, Kingdom and Monarchy, is nothing but nonsense, and a waste of time. There is nothing you can add to their noble minds since you, aren't remotely accepted as a noble or our leader to begin with" –he finished.

-That… was amazing… -Dimitri mentioned, by the looks on Edelgard's and Yuri's faces, it seemed like they were impressed as well-. I don't mean Lorenz's unkind words of course, but the way you actually could imitate his voice perfectly. It was as if I could picture Lorenz saying all that –Dimitri finished without being able to believe it.

-Not that such words weren't sort of deserving to begin with –Edelgard added, Dimitri breathed out in preoccupation once noticing that, once again, hostilities between Claude and Edelgard persisted-. But also, they were uncalled for. There is no possible way you can be that bad. I at least still see many salvageable traits in you. Lorenz surely is just as mortified as I am to hear of a heir from the Riegan family, when House Riegan was so close to disappearing –she added, Yuri and Dimitri both exchanged worry looks once again-. But can you blame him? Duke Riegan's Eldest son died in an accident. Having tragically lost other family members as well, he was without a heir. The Alliance would undoubtedly have been shaken if House Riegan had lost its position of leadership. But then you showed up. Not to mention Lorenz would be the sovereign Duke of the Alliance if not for your return from out of nowhere –she added with an accusative stare.

-This again? Such tension between you two. Let's make a new rule and not talk politics on the Dining Hall's Round Table –Yuri interrupted, Claude smirked at that last while facing the table and being about to joke about it-. I know it's not round –but Yuri interrupted his joke-. Anyway, suspicious as it is, that's for the Alliance to resolve. We here are in the middle of an imitating contest. And its Dimitri's turn to imitate his retainer. So, give us your best Dedeu impersonation –Yuri added with a flirty gaze.

-I will agree with the "no talk politics policy", but I'm not sure I will be any good at imitating Dedeu –sadly for Dimitri, this time even Edelgard was paying very close attention to Dimitri, as if having fun in her own way, and so, Dimitri complied-. Oh all right. Let me see if I remember correctly. When I told Dedue about these morning and nocturne reunions, I remember him saying something like this: Ahem… "If your Highness believe so, it shall be as you ask. But I will remain close, don't hesitate to call me if you must" –Dimitri added, and then rubbed his throat-. I'm afraid that's the best I can do. I don't have Claude's talent for imitating –he blushed a little.

-That wasn't bad at all –Claude added, a little impressed-. And I haven't been that close to Duscur people, but I believe you did a good job with the primal assent –he finished, Dimitri felt a little uncomfortable, and faced several directions looking for Dedeu in hopes of him not hearing his imitation, Edelgard just laughed a little when noticing Dedeu actually did and was lowering his head in embarrassment.

-Now I'm feeling guilty for being the one suggesting this childish game –Edelgard added while covering her lips not to reflect she was actually enjoying herself-. But now is your turn, Yuri. Who was your retainer again? That towering student, Balthus? I heard he failed the academy and had to repeat the year –she mentioned.

-As far as retainers goes, no, Balthus isn't smart enough to be assigned the role of retainer… he is more vassal material –Yuri explained-. I also can't call Constance my retainer because, well, she is my bride. So, the closest one to a retainer would be Jeritza, but needless to say, he isn't that interested in politics –he continued while thinking about who would fit such role-. Monica is compromised, she is too much of a fan of you as to be a proper retainer, she would favor the Empire on any given negotiation. Hapi said no, and Cyril barely knows how to write. I can imitate Shez as the subject of the current competition, after all, he is my retainer in training –he finished.

-A commoner, as your retainer? –Edelgard added with surprise, Yuri just nodded-. I'm not quite sure about how politics work in Agartha, but I am surprised to see you don't have a stigma against commoners. I though the odd one was Dimitri, but even he knows his true retainer will be either Felix or Sylvain. Such position cannot be offered to Dedeu once Dimitri is crowned –she concluded.

-And why is that? –this time it was Dimitri the one annoyed at Edelgard's words-. I don't see why I, as king, wouldn't be allowed to appoint someone as Dedeu as my official retainer –he insisted while crossing his arms, which was something he did whenever he felt offended.

-Maybe it is because of the coffee, but that's not what Edelgard meant –Claude mentioned, surprising Edelgard for having him on her side and against Dimitri, when normally it was the other way around-. We live in a world where commoners are seen down when thinking about such roles. I applaud your disposition on allowing Dedeu to claim a retainer position, but Fódlan isn't currently ready for such a thing –he added, Edelgard faced down in disappointment-. But maybe there is something we can all do together. How about we four get commoners as retainers, that would have all of Fódlan talking about it –Claude added.

-I thought we all agreed on not talking politics in our reunions –Yuri complained, but this time Edelgard interrupted him by placing her hand in front of him to stop-. Whatever happened here? The roles were reversed. Should I worry about a wedding? –he wondered.

-Make all the fun of me as you like, Yuri, but if I can get behind Claude's and Dimitri's ideas, I will. You are free to add yourself into the mix –Edelgard added, surprising everyone in the table-. What? You all are seeing me as if I was the kind of person who couldn't be reasoned with. ]Well… I'm not –she complained-. So, you would take a commoner too as a retainer, right Claude? And Dimitri, wouldn't Faerghus see with unholy eyes such declaration? –she wondered.

-This turned into a political talk so fast that I wasn't even allowed to imitate Shez –Yuri whispered out of annoyance, and then noticed the mentioned mercenary walking his way-. Speaking of the devil, here he comes –Yuri added, and then faced Shez, who noticed the other lords, and then grabbed Yuri by the arm and dragged him far from the table before whispering at him-. That tickles, you oaf! And say that again, but slowly –he complained.

-Hey, no retainers on the 4 Nations Round Table! You didn't even allow your wife to come close to complain about anything –Claude added while pointing at Constance, who began choking while having breakfast with Hapi at a different table due to the embarrassment of his words.

-Are you sure? –Yuri wondered, Shez nodded-. Very well, you may leave now –Yuri finished, and then walked back to the table, sitting down while rubbing his chin. The other three lords just exchanged looks and faced him-. This is too important a news as for you three not to be notified sooner or later, so I might as well take this opportunity to imitate my retainer as I deliver this news to you, but to you only –Yuri began, a serious look drawn on his face: "Kostas, the brigand that tried to kill you and the other royals, was found death on his cell" –he imitated, only the fun and joy were over.

Audience Chamber.

-A staff meeting so soon on the school year? My goodness, they aren't giving you a moment to rest professor –Manuela greeted Byleth by the audience chamber, the young woman was just arriving after being notified by one of the soldiers that there was currently a staff meeting to be held. Behind her arrived shortly after Hanneman and Aelfric, who were also requested on the Audience Chamber-. You… reek a little to fish –Manuela mentioned with a little of disappointment.

-Spare our college the reprehension of her corporal odor at least this once, Manuela. I was witness of Professor Byleth accompanying Captain Jeralt and the newest student Shez for a fishing trip by the fishing pond earlier in the morning –Hanneman arrived and defended Byleth just in time-. Besides, reeking to substances of unknown origin is something you are far too familiar with. Being the one for once on the other side of the reek, should give you an idea of what your colleges have to stand most of the time when dealing with the unsavory results of your midnight escapades –he finished with disapproval.

-Midnight escapades? At least I have people to share escapades with, mister. Since no one actually looks up for you for anything other than a crest test, it's not difficult to assume the loneliness of your daily life –Manuela pointed out, and an argument between the two erupted once again, with Byleth eyeing one and the other with each complain that escaped each of them in their quarrel.

-I'm afraid you will get used to this –Aelfric began, Byleth just nodded, already used to it despite only been on the monastery for a couple of days-. Garreg Mach Monastery surely isn't leaving a good impression to you, my child. And it's about to get worse I'm afraid, since I do know the reason behind this meeting. Something happened in Abyss –he mentioned, Byleth just blinked twice not knowing what he was talking about-. Oh, I apologize. Sometimes I forget there are still those who don't know about Abyss. Allow me to explain then. Deep bellow Garreg Mach Monastery lies a series of tunnels so immense that it was once considered a city. At first it was a place where vagabonds and criminals could find solace, and it would have remained so if the monastery hadn't had the need for a larger prison in which to accommodate the majority of war criminals of Fódlan after the resolution of the Tragedy of Duscur. Have you heard of it? –he wondered.

-I heard it involved the Kingdom's royalty, and a failed diplomatic mission –Byleth added, Aelfric nodded in agreement-. There was a student from Duscur… Dedeu… I haven't seen anyone else from there… -she finished.

-It would surprise me if that were the case –Aelfric replied-. The Tragedy of Duscur occurred 4 years ago. The King of Faerghus, Lambert, and Queen Patricia, were murdered by the people of Duscur during a diplomatic mission. Prince Dimitri was the sole survivor –Aelfric explained, concern was more than evident in Byleth's face-. What followed the assassination of the royal family, was a pogrom. Kingdom nobles hunted the people of Duscur down and murdered them in cold blood, leading the Duscur race to the brink of extinction. It was later revealed that some Kingdom nobles were involved in the massacre, and the kingdom's citizens asked for their heads. But alas, that's not how politics in Fódlan work. You see, the Kingdom shares a very close relationship to the Church of Seiros, closer than the Empire, the Alliance, or the Monarchy. So close is the Kingdom to the Church, that it was left for the Church to decide what to do with the nobles accused of participating in the Tragedy of Duscur. The Central Church took the matter toward the Church's Round Table, leaving the destiny of the perpetrators to the 4 Bishops. Matters involving the Church are discussed on the Round Table, and usually are resolved by a majority in votes. But for a Death Penalty, the vote must be unanimous. And so, with the vote of the Western Church Bishop against the penalty, the second penalty entered into question, Life Imprisonment. The Central Church, however, wasn't ready to keep in confinement such a large group of noblemen and perpetrators, so they did what they thought best. The built the largest prison ever, just below the monastery, and since then, life imprisoned sentenced criminals recede bellow Garreg Mach. Not a very pleasant thought for the common folk when the noblemen increased taxes to pay the Church for the maintenance of such prison. Although no criminal had died assassinated, unless until today –he whispered that last part.

-Which is something you shouldn't know yet, Aelfric –someone interrupted the conversation, Seteth, who was just exiting the Audience Chamber alongside Flayn-. You all may now enter, gentlemen. We won't take long, especially since two of you seem to be better informed for some reason –Seteth added, and entered the room, leaving a depressed Flayn behind.

-I know common folk are displeased because of the increase of taxes… but killing as punishment, is not right… -Flayn whispered, and then remembered the group of professors in front of her-. I apologize, that comment was misplaced. If you would be so kind as to follow me, we will begin with the meeting –Flayn invited, the professors obeyed, and walked inside of the Audience Chamber, staying on foot while the four Bishops and Lady Rhea sat at their thrones.

-I welcome you, professors, and I apologize to you, our youngest addition to the academy, for delivering such uncomfortable news on your first day as a teacher here in Garreg Mach –Rhea began, and then faced Seteth for him to continue.

-As some of you are now aware of, which is something we will discuss later privately, there was an assassination on Garreg Mach grounds, more specifically, on Abyss –Seteth began, the news was a surprise for Manuela and Hanneman, who even exchanged worried looks-. This assassination, however, is stranger the more we think about it. And we would be suspicious of the newest additions to the monastery, if not for the knowledge of you, Professor Byleth, bringing the victim here to be judged. What good is there to you, your father, and your college, assassinating a prisoner you brought here yourselves? Unless entering Garreg Mach Monastery was your intention all along, and disposing of the prisoner somehow needed –Seteth accused.

-Those are very strong accusations, Seteth –Bishop Toutatis interrupted-. I apologize to you, my new friend. Seteth has always been… overprotective. Specially with his sister around. An assassination on Garreg Mach is a delicate matter, especially if noblemen and women from all around Fódlan entrust their sons and daughters to us. That is the real reason behind this meeting, not accusing you of assassinating the prisoner –he insisted.

-The assassination was made with a very clean cut around the prisoner's throat –someone mentioned, a young woman no one had noticed until then-. I tracked all the evidences I could gather into a secret passage leading exactly to the prisoner's cell. Accommodating the prisoner precisely into such cell, and knowing the existence of that secret passage, is not something an outsider would be able to accomplish. Also, the cut was so clean, that only a professional assassin could manage such cut. As final evidence, there are no sights of the victim defending himself. Either he knew the assassin, or he didn't see him or her arrive, which would be complicated, the secret passage is ratter noisy when opened –she finished.

-Thank you for your report –Seteth began-. Allow me to introduce to you to Shamir, professor Byleth. One of the Knights of Seiros serving here on the Officer's Academy, and a former mercenary from Dagda, very talented –he added, Shamir made a reverence toward Byleth-. If her investigation tells you and your companions have nothing to do with the assassination, I believe her, so I apologize for judging you –he bowed.

-Which in turn just makes everything worse –Bishop Griffin mentioned, as always remaining with his arms crossed-. Proving the innocence of someone, is bad news for an investigation like this one. We still have an assassin roaming free, since we have no evidence of such assassin leaving Garreg Mach. And also, the fact that this criminal, Kostas, wasn't interviewed in time to understand the reasoning behind the assassination attempt of the Four Lords of Fódlan, does not allow us to determine if this attempt was just a crime of opportunity, or a terrorist attack with far greater repercussions than the Duscur Tragedy –he continued, winning Byleth's full attention-. To where we know, both political assassination attempts could be orchestrated by the same group trying to finish the job of assassinating the Kingdom's Royal Family, or just be an opportunistic approach. Personally, I wouldn't call an attempt with Titanus involved as something like an opportunistic attempt –he concluded.

-The belief of this attempt been a follow up of the Tragedy of Duscur, is a fear that surrounds my heart with a heavy grief –Flayn began, closing her hands as in a prayer, and pushing them strongly toward her chest-. The Holy Kingdom of Faerghus has suffered too much already… that child has suffered too much already… so I will beg of you this as a personal favor, Professor Byleth. I understand you have picked the Golden Deer House as your personal choice for teaching, but being the only one with the mercenary knowledge, could I ask you to switch to the Blue Lion House instead and protect Prince Dimitri in my name? –she asked.

-If it must be done, I understand –Byleth began, filling Flayn's heart with joy, and provoking on her a sweet smile-. I promise to keep Prince Dimitri safe, and will inform my House Leader, Claude, about this resolution –she began.

-Just a moment, my dear child –Rhea interrupted, which was a surprise considering everyone in the table considered Flayn's petition as the best course of action-. While I understand the Western Bishop's worries, this attempt being against Prince Dimitri, is nothing but an inquire –she added with calmness-. If inquiring was enough to prevent any crime from happening, I would allow this change in the current accommodation of professors. Yet, try to understand what such change would provoke on our students. A third roster change, with such short notice, would be subject of conjectures and confusion to our students. I'm afraid it would do more harm than help, we have a responsibility toward our youths, and that is to remain calm even in such situations –she finished.

-But something must be done. Pretending the assassination didn't happen does not mean it didn't happen –Bishop Toutatis mentioned-. Surely the students would understand a third roster change, the professor here hasn't had her first class yet –he insisted.

-Doing a third roster change in reply to an assassination with only an inquire, correct or not, would only alert the assassins of us knowing about their intentions –Bishof Griffin explained-. As usual, none of you understand the cruelty and cunning the… we humans are capable of –he continued after a strange correction that Byleth noticed-. If the culprit knew of the secret passage, and the prisoner was accommodated in the cell leading to it, that means the culprit is an insider. Perhaps the mercenaries are innocent according to Shamir's investigation, but perhaps Hanneman, Manuela, or Aelfric, are not –he mentioned, Hanneman and Manuela were infuriated and tried to speak, Aelfric just backed off in surprise-. I'm not finished with my talking! An assassin is on the loose and there is no time for niceties! There will not be roster changes of any sorts, your responsibilities as professors, is to protect your designated House Leaders! An investigation will take place, but who will conduct it, that's for us to determine. You got your orders, keep the House Leaders safe, and if something happens to any of them, I will make their designated homeroom teacher, responsible. Are we clear? –he finished.

-You are clear –Byleth replied, to the surprise of Manuela, Hanneman and Aelfric-. Is there something else that we need to understand before returning to our responsibilities? –she asked, looking directly at Griffin, who grunted at her defiance stare.

-This meeting could have been handled differently, thank you again for over complicating everything, Eastern Church Bishop –Seteth complained-. While I agree that the fact of having an assassin on the loose requires some ratter extreme precautions, it is also important to remain calm, and continue leading the monastery correctly. As such, I shall change the subject, for the time being –Seteth continued, knowing that thanks to Griffin the professors were all in the edge-. In a few days' time, there will be a mock battle between the Four Houses, intended to gauge the current progress of the students. We will be using this battle as an opportunity to ascertain your own abilities as well. Please do not disappoint us, that is all –Seteth finished, Byleth made a reverence and retired, the rest of the professors did the same. Seteth then faced Shamir, who understood his stare and then ordered the Knights of Seiros to leave the room, allowing the Four Bishops and Rhea some privacy once the doors were closed-. Griffin… -he began, the Eastern Bishop just remained arms crossed and ignored Seteth-. Your distrust of humans in general, is becoming a burden. If your disposition into solving conflicts was only as big as your wish to punish them for their wrongdoings, I'm sure the investigation would advance faster than it currently is advancing –Seteth complained.

-Enough with your accusations, Cichol, I should remind you, that if it were my wish, I would continue in reclusion somewhere as far of Fódlan as possible –Griffin complained, and after doing it so, a wind current forced Seteth back to his chair-. Appointing me, of all people, as Eastern Bishop. I only agreed to this so I could force humankind to remain away from any military conflict that would disrupt my sleep! But the more time I spend alongside humans, the more convinced I am of the need of their extermination! –he sentenced.

-Griffin! –Rhea interrupted, Griffin grunted, but quit his complaining-. I will ask you to never use that name again. It's far too dangerous. The five of us abandoned our birth names so we could lead Fódlan toward an age of prosperity in the name of our mother –she reminded him, Griffin just bit his lips with hatred-. You are a valuable ally to us, we must remain together, if we allow ourselves to drift, Fódlan will enter into conflict once again –she insisted.

-You know Rhea is right, brother –Bishop Toutatis began-. We went to sleep once, and the Mach Wars began. Then was the invasion of Brigid. Then the War of the Eagle and the Lion –he continued-. Armed conflict after armed conflict. They need our guidance –he insisted.

-The intervention of the back then Archbishop during the war of the Eagle and the Lion, is what separated Fódlan to begin with –Griffin complained, Rhea just faced him back with annoyance-. Humans will fight with or without our intervention. By interfering, the only thing we are accomplishing is delaying their own extinction. This situation is sole proof of it, an attempt against the Four Leaders of the Four Nations, roughly four years after the Tragedy of Duscur. If humans want to exterminate one another, I say we allow them to before they look our way and decide it was the Church, and not their own idiocy, what divided Fódlan! –he insisted.

-What are you getting at? –Seteth complained, being in complete defiance to Griffin's accusations-. That we have lacked in our leadership? That the reason Fódlan is at it is today is our fault? All we do is end every human conflict and achieve peace –he insisted.

-Because you are all acting like gods who should serve the humans, when in reality, we should either be on top of them, or leave them to their own demise –Griffin insisted-. Although the been on top of them part, is something you all do unwillingly. Do you fools even know what is happening on the east? There is a war taking place, between the Alliance, and the Almyrans, but do you care? No, because Almyra isn't Fódlan. Your solution to a war was building a wall! The sole reason you care for Fódlan, is for the false sentiment you all have toward the blood that runs through the human's veins when those humans were the ones murdering our people! Since Almyrans don't have such blood, you allow them to be hunted as nothing more than prey –he finished.

-Enough, Griffin! –Rhea commanded, Griffin just growled, at the other side of the Round Table, Flayn was already covering her ears refusing to listen to her uncle's words-. The conflicts on the Alliance, are your responsibility, that was the way we agreed on leading our people –she continued with determination, and authority-. Do you not remember the pact we all made? We would lead this world together. Saint Cichol was the one asking for our responsibility to be a shared one. This means, that like it or not, leading Fódlan is also your responsibility. This is the pact we made. Your wishes, are not your own to follow, none of our wishes are –Rhea said that last while facing Seteth-. This is what we agreed, and the reason Flayn is also seated in this table, is it not? –she asked.

-It is… -Seteth replied-. Believe me, Griffin, if it weren't for the pact, I would have never allowed Flayn to be seated on this Round Table, and perhaps Fódlan would be lead only by Rhea and I –Seteth mentioned while facing Flayn, who faced him back with concern-. But it was obvious to me back then, what is obvious to me now… not one of us should decide… the five of us should decide. And unless there is unanimity on something, we will all comply. Such is the pact that was forged that day after the War of Heroes ended, and you will honor this pact, like it or not. Such is our way –he finished, Griffin grunted, but nodded.

-I understand your worry, brother, I swear I do –Bishop Toutatis mentioned, trying to calm Griffin down-. If it were for me, I too would live my life elsewhere, I even picked a lake to reside in, and of that, I only took a name –he added with a smile-. But we all honored a pact, you included, so we all bear the same responsibility. If there is something you wish to change, bring it to the table, and we will try to change it. All we need to do, is vote –he finished.

-Vote… right… -Griffin added while facing Flayn, who felt threatened by such stare-. I have no proof for that which I'm going to say now. But it was thanks to one vote, that this assassination attempt was made possible –he continued, Flayn lowered her head at that last-. If all the ones involved in the Tragedy of Duscur had been dealt with, there wouldn't be a second attempt against Prince Dimitri, and yes, I know this is only an inquire, and there is a possibility of me being wrong… but there is one thing I know for sure. Humans need war… and war, will continue to exist as long as humans exist… mark my words, war will once again erupt, and when it does… the humans you all defend against my wishes, will hunt us down… murder us… because humans, are stupid… and they despise anything, or anyone, that got more power than them… the future… is grim… -he finished, Rhea just breathed out in defeat at Griffin's accusations.

-All in favor to allow humankind to exterminate themselves? –she asked, no one, not even Griffin, raised their hands-. It seems you lose the democracy of this table once more. So, leaving this disturbing conversation behind, we still have a pact to keep, and such pact means leading humans toward their prime. Do you have any suggestion as to how to resolve the current assassination problem, Griffin –she wondered.

-As a matter of fact, I do –he added with annoyance-. I'm not heartless enough as not to honor my pact. We will all pay for this, I'm sure of it, but a pact is a pact. As long as the round table doesn't favor me, I'm forced to comply, am I not? –he added, Rhea just waited for his suggestion-. It is obvious that an insider is leading the assassination attempts. There is no other way someone would know about the secret passages we ourselves built. And since I know none of you will accept the accusation of one of us delivering this information willingly to our enemies to perpetuate war in Fódlan… -he added with sarcasm, which wasn't well received by the ones on the Round Table-. There is only another possibility. One of the Knights of Seiros is responsible, it is that or one of us is playing dirty –he insisted.

-I you are looking for the Round Table to vote you out of the pact, it's not going to happen –Seteth added with annoyance-. But it is true that, the only others with access to such information, are the higher ranks of the Knights of Seiros. It wounds me to know one of our own would betray us, but it isn't something that is impossible either –he finished.

-The only ones who know about the assassination are Alois, Shamir, a couple of guards from the Abyss, and the professors –Bishop Toutatis continued-. But no one else… at least, I don't believe so. Are we to inform the House Leaders? –he wondered.

-They know –Griffin mentioned, winning everyone's attention once again-. Just as they knew we were hiring the new professor and enrolling the new student, I am sure the Four House leaders know about this. Or are you all going to pretend that there is unrest within the Four Nations? Obviously their spies are everywhere –he added.

-Enough, uncle Griffin! All we hear are complaints from your part, but not solutions! –Flayn finally exploded, even Seteth was surprised by that last-. If you have a possible solution, then be so kind as to inform us about it, but if not, I think the negativity in this Round Table, is a precise reflection of the situation of Fódlan, so please, help us bring harmony here in the Round Table, so we can find harmony on Fódlan as well –she begged, Griffin faced her directly, and then breathed out in defeat at her almost teary eyes.

-If a Knight of Seiros is responsible, there is not one we can count on for this, not Shamir, and specially, not Alois –Griffin began-. We will ask Shamir to continue with the investigation just to prevent the Knights of Seiros believing we suspect them. In the meantime, we will ask our newest mercenary friend, to help with our investigation. Seteth did promise contracts to suffice his economic needs –he finished.

-The new mercenary? Shez? –Seteth began-. Shamir is a trusted companion of the Knights. Why not allowing her to continue with the investigation with our suspicions known to her? Are you really suggesting a mercenary we barely know, can do a better job than Shamir? –he complained.

-How do we know Shamir wasn't the one killing the bandit Kostas? –Griffin began-. Are you suggesting that just because we know her, she isn't a suspect? Why don't we go ahead and assume then, that no one else on the Knights of Seiros is responsible? Perhaps one of the students even tricked us all and orchestrated this attempt murder trying to eliminate the other three lords and claim to be the only survivor, just to push Fódlan into another senseless war only such student understands? Do you want me to keep on with the theories, I have plenty, I can continue with this dance all day –he insisted, Seteth was already losing his temper-. But enough with the sarcasm… allow Shamir to do her work if that is what you want. Humans are smart, but there is a language they all speak fluently. Give the mercenary enough coin, and he will hunt our assassin –he finished.

-Well, this meeting has extended far longer than what I had anticipated, and until now, that's the only suggestion of the day –Rhea began, everyone in the table waited-. All in favor in having the mercenary Shez, participating in the murder investigation? –she asked, Griffin obviously lifted his hand, so did Toutatis, Flayn thought about it, and raised her hand as well-. Seteth? Is that your reply? –she wondered, Seteth breathed out in annoyance, and raised his hand.

Recreation Zone in front of the classrooms.

-Wachoo! –by the Recreation Zone just outside of the classrooms, Shez sneezed hard, something Yuri reacted with disgust toward to, and so he took some steps away from he who was now his new retainer-. Well, excuse the sneeze your highness. Someone must be speaking about me behind of my back –he added.

-You are excused –Yuri replied, Balthus was also with them, curious about Shez-. Worried about your position of power, Balthus my friend? Worry not, I still favor other subjects for you. I just thought it was time for a change of servitude –he explained.

-A time for a change of servitude is perhaps something that is well welcomed. I do wonder however if there will also be a change in the possibility of becoming your future spouse –they all heard, and noticed Constance resting her back at the other wall of the column they were all resting their backs at-. It's not as if I would be able to understand it if my lord found someone more respected or capable of fitting the role of your wife. My heart would be broken, but I would understand the thought of being committed to someone like me to be depressing –she finished, some weak tears also appearing on her eyes.

-Constance? –Shez wondered, it was the first time he had seen her like this-. Why is she acting so… gloomy? She even looks like a whole different person all together –Shez pointed, Yuri just laughed a little at his reactions.

-That's Constance alright, the girl just gets all depressing and weak whenever she is hit by sunshine –Balthus explained, which Shez couldn't believe in the less-. And I'm not worried about my position of power or anything. Being honest, more free time for me. I'm just surprised you handpicked a mercenary you just met for the job. And quit whining, Constance, Yuri is not breaking the marital contract. You are not, are you? –he wondered, feeling uncomfortable once seeing Constance turning around to face Yuri with weak tears on her eyes as if the sole thought of it depressed her even more.

-Of course not. I'm having too much fun having Constance being all depressing and teary when the thought crosses her mind, and being all against it and arrogant the moment she enters the shade –Yuri added, Shez and Balthus just exchanged looks and faced Constance, who was now cleaning the tears from her face with a handkerchief-. Also, picking Shez as my retainer is mostly because he is silent, and effective, and uses his coin correctly. He was skillful enough to enter Abyss and get the info of the assassination before even the Bishops were notified. A very effective test of his abilities. Honestly, I am impressed –he finished.

-Impressed? We risked our very lives spying on the Knights of Damn Seiros! And all he says is: "I'm impressed". I don't even know why we agreed to this, we were supposed to go fishing with the Ashen Demon and push her into the pond! –Arval complained, Shez grew worried about such declaration.

-I know my way around dungeons, and it was the perfect excuse not to go fishing with the Ashen Demon and her father –Shez explained-. And Yuri is right, as long as he got the coin, I will do my job, but hey, I'm not against sharing. We can work together if you wish –he invited.

-It's not that, at all –Balthus replied-. But I know Yuri. More than he even knows. He isn't just interested in a random mercenary for no reason. You just need to look at our classroom. A bipolar bride –he pointed at Constance-. An illiterate Almyran kid –he pointed toward Cyril, who was trying to read something with the help of Jeritza-. That one there is also bipolar and got some crazy murderous instincts. And then there is Edelgard's fangirl with a not so healthy, and probably not so innocent, obsession with the Adrestian princess –Balthus continued pointing, and Shez faced toward the direction of Monica, who was hiding behind the classroom's door, and spying on Edelgard, who was speaking to Ferdinand or complaining toward him about something, while Hubert kept a cold stare in Monica's direction all the time-. Not to mention Hapi, a sigh from her, and who knows if we live –he finished.

-I heard that, B –Hapi added once she arrived with some food from the Dining Hall-. First of all, rude, speaking bad at someone's back isn't fine, and second, cookie? –she offered, Balthus accepted the offer-. Here, Yurikins, got one for you too Sezy, J and Cyl, want some? –she added, Cyril moved his head in negation, Jeritza didn't reply-. More for me and Coco, since Mony seems to be too busy drooling for Eddie –she finished and sat next to Constance, who still cried about the thought of Yuri calling their marriage off.

-Sezy? Whatever, I suppose I earned it for being bribed into choosing this house –Shez added, and then faced the rest of the houses-. Nobles ever attend to classes? Some laid back life they are all having –he complained.

-Normally, we would all be enjoying Aelfric's class by now. But you know there are some matters that need to be attended first –Yuri added, and then noticed the stare from Claude, who was by the Blue Lions classroom speaking with Dimitri-. He is into me once again, isn't he? Hi Claude, like what you see? –he winked.

-Not really –Claude replied from afar, Dimitri, who was having a conversation with him until then, interrupted to face toward Yuri-. Sorry, what were we talking about again? I got distracted –Claude added while scratching the back of his head.

-We were talking about house Daphnel with Ingrid –Dimitri mentioned, Claude then faced Ingrid, who was facing him back with an annoyed stare-. But apparently, you don't even remember the moment she arrived –he concluded.

-Claude ignoring me while been on the clouds. Can't say this is the first time –Ingrid complained, Claude just delivered to her an odd smile-. Really Claude, if I bore you, I assure you I have better things to do. Shall I leave your highness? –she wondered.

-Jezz, I'm not being respected in my house, or on the Blue Lions one. I have never been the type to ask others to use honorifics when talking to me, but hearing you call Dimitri: "your highness" while I'm simply Claude… -he complained, Ingrid just faced him with determination.

-You want me to treat you like you belong to a noble family Claude, then starts behaving as such. The neck of your shirt is wrinkled, and you are missing a button –Ingrid began, and while doing it so, began fixing Claude's clothes as well-. There are stains of food on your sleeves, and you have a cowlick –she continued while taking a handkerchief out and cleaning his sleeves with it, then she tried to fix his hair.

-Woah there, I got it, please stop before my reputation as Edelgard's flirter gets compromised –Claude joked, which in turn made him the subject of a couple of aggressive stares, one from Edelgard, Hubert's one was more like the one of a serial murderer-. Perhaps I should rethink my approach, Hubert is scary –he joked again.

-I suppose the conversation about House Daphnel can wait for some other time. We will resolve your kinship to Judith later. You may go if you wish, Ingrid –Dimitri finished, Ingrid nodded, tried to leave, but before she did she forcibly fixed Claude's hair-. Can't say I don't relate to this –Dimitri added while resisting a smile.

-Fine, thank you for the help with my hair issues –he finished after Ingrid was done, the blonde haired one then noticed certain red headed one flirting some girls, and so, ended fixing her sleeves to put an end to it-. How… do you survive her? She is still gorgeous, but I can't help but remember the sweet little girl always clinging to me when we were younger and living all together on House Daphnel –he complained.

-That was… more than 5 years ago, and Glenn was still… -Dimitri began, Claude just made a mockery once noticing Dimitri's stare-. I'm sorry, I know I shouldn't be thinking about the past like this. But you know Ingrid just wants what's best for you because… -he began.

-Because lord Gunnar asked my grandfather for Ingrid to be my bride, and is still thinking about it, I know. Can we not talk about arranged marriages? I despise them, and you will never see me marrying someone for political gain –Claude complained, Dimitri grew surprised of his negativity, and because Claude actually reflected annoyance at that last.

-Not even when you argue with Edelgard do you allow yourself to be actually mad at someone, or at something. This is a surprise. I didn't know you disliked arranged marriages –Dimitri added, Claude's cold stare was enough for him to leave the subject aside-. Anyway, don't you think something is off? I mean, the professors hadn't arrived yet –he whispered.

-Kostas was murdered on his cell, of course they haven't, they are being informed about what to do and how to behave –he replied, and then faced Yuri's direction once again, Dimitri noticed-. Wanting intel about Kostas is comprehensible. The guy tried to kill us. Sharing the info with us on the other hand… -Claude began.

-Do you suspect Yuri of something? –Dimitri wondered, Claude then noticed he had been speaking out loud-. You left your guard down. It happens when we are alone mostly. At least I know you don't think of me as a menace, just Yuri, and probably Edelgard –he made fun of him.

-You are not a menace, not in scheming at least –Claude replied-. You are the kind of person who is completely predictable. Yuri on the other hand. It was him who suggested the morning and nocturne meetings between the Four House Leaders. He calls it a way to be at peace with all of us. But, if I wasn't so untrustworthy as I know I am, I would have been the one suggesting just that, not because I want to be friends with everyone, but because I want to know everyone's secrets. So whenever I find myself with you all as enemies, I have the tools to fight back –he finished, Dimitri crossed his arms in defiance to that last.

-And that includes me? –he wondered-. You are actually telling me your plan out loud. One would think you don't think of me as a problem, at all. I'm not sure if I should be flattered, or insulted –he finished.

-Got you thinking, didn't I? –Claude smiled, returning to his usual self, which was something Dimitri couldn't comprehend-. First lesson about having a position of power so strong, that one mistake can mean a war erupting out of a bad day, your highness. Know your friends, and your enemies, but specially your friends. You don't know when that friendship will be crushed. It takes too little to ruin a friendship: coin, an argument, women, especially women. Friendship is fragile, animosity is easier to deal with because you can expect bad intentions from your enemies all together. Why do you think arranged marriages exist? If you are family, it doesn't matter if you are friends or enemies –he added, Dimitri placed deep thoughts into his reasoning-. As for you, I know far too well you don't believe such a thing. Honor and friendship, you value that with a lot of passion. That's the reason behind you not been a menace, not in politics at least –he finished.

-I see that, and I also understand you wouldn't be telling me all this if not for a reason –Dimitri replied-. You can believe me a fool all you want Claude, I think I know the real you, I want to believe I know the real you –he corrected, Claude just smiled-. And the real you, is a person who desperately wants to believe in friendship, to depend on others. Right there, you are better than me… since I don't know how to depend on others –that last part, was a surprise for Claude-. And here I am depending on you anyway. I promise to be more careful around Yuri, and I thank you for the advice –he finished, Claude just kept his smirk, as if not wanting to reflect any weakness-. Professor Hanneman, welcome –Dimitri changed the subject, and bowed toward his homeroom teacher. Manuela also walked by and reached the Black Eagles classroom.

-Greetings everyone, please come inside –Manuela began, her students all made their way toward the classroom, Bernadetta tried to run away, but Petra grabbed her from the collar and forced her back inside-. Thank you, Petra. I apologize for the delay, please open your books in page… -Manuela continued, as if nothing had happened, the same occurred with the Blue Lions of Professor Hanneman, and the Ashen Wolves of Professor Aelfric, by the Golden Deer House, Byleth said close to nothing, she just stood by the door, and faced her students, all who exchanged looks.

-Inside –she ordered, the students obeyed, although some did so with annoyed stares in their faces, stares Byleth noticed, and began thinking about them-. I apologize for the delay, we will begin the lesson and catch up to everyone's studies –she added, the students then entered the classroom, all minus Claude, who Byleth faced-. I mean it when I say I apologize –she finished.

-What? You think I'm disappointed? –Claude began, approaching Byleth with a smile on his face-. Come on Teach, I'm sure there was a very important reason behind you being late. All of the other teachers were late too. Don't be too harsh on yourself –he added, Byleth just faced him back, and Claude noticed a hint of concern in her eyes-. Now that's new. Is that concern what I see in your eyes Teach? And here I thought you had no feelings. Sometimes I thought you weren't even human –he joked.

-That's rude –she replied, Claude just continued with his smile, but decided to enter the classroom anyway. Byleth breathed out, and grabbed one of the double doors, trying to close them.

-He is into something. You don't usually reflect emotion of any sort. But right now, you feel depressed, or perhaps not depressed, more like… disappointed? –Sothis wondered, Byleth reflected on her feelings, confusing the students inside, who all faced in her direction, unknowing why their homeroom teacher was just standing by the door as if in deep thoughts-. You did spend a lot of time studying. You even used all my energy on Divine Pulses to read book after book to be ready. Could it be… were you truly looking forward to your first class!? Aha! That's it, I'm a genius. Your first day of classes isn't over yet. Now go there and do your best –she finished.

-He is disappointed… -she whispered, and walked inside silently, reaching the pulpit, where she placed one of the books, and opened it, trying to concentrate in the lesson-. Good evening. I apologize for the delay. We will begin with the lessons –she began.

-Don't tell me… no one bothered to show you the standard procedure for lectures? I guess it's up for me to save the day –Claude began, interrupting the lesson, and walking toward the pulpit-. Before starting a lecture, be sure to check our study goals. After all, students will want to prioritize studying things that relate to their goals –he continued.

-Is that defiance what I'm listening to right now? How rude! Does he think you incapable of doing something so trivial like giving a lecture? While it is true you have never been something remotely close to a teacher, you did spend all night studying! The lack of respect here is… phooey! Such arrogance! –Sothis complained.

-I knew you were disappointed –Byleth whispered, Claude stopped on his tracks, and faced her with evident surprise-. I despise disappointing others. Although… I don't remember fearing to disappoint anyone other than my father. This felling… is new to me… -she continued, she was speaking so softly, that no one in the room but Claude could hear her, they even began whispering between themselves not knowing what to think about what was going on-. I refuse to disappoint you –she closed her book, and left the pulpit, puzzling Claude-. On the 30 of the Great Tree Moon, there will be a mock battle between the Four Houses –she began, walking around the classroom, with book in hand, and her arms behind of her back-. Here on Garreg Mach Officer's Academy, you are supposed to learn theory on different principles. Sword, Lance, Ax, and Bow are the primary combat studies you shall learn, and as a former mercenary, I find all those subjects to be my strong points. So there is nothing you should worry about, I am capable of teaching all these subjects, just as capable as teaching you Heavy Armor, Riding, and Flying, which are also combat arts, my experience as a mercenary shall suffice –she insisted, and then faced Claude, who was intrigued by her determination-. Reasoning the story of Fódlan, and matters of the Faith, are subjects I had no need for when being a mercenary, but I assure you that not only I am a fast learner, but also, prepared myself so I could share this knowledge –she clasped her fingers, and a flame made itself present after the clasping, impressing the students-. So far, I believe myself ready enough to serve as your homeroom teacher. Self-defense arts as Brawling and martial arts are also arts I am well aware of, as for my Authority, I believe you will notice I don't lack such knowledge either. Still disappointed? –she wondered.

-I don't know where you got the idea of me being disappointed of you Teach, but color me impressed if that helps –he added, Byleth just stared directly to his eyes, Claude blinked twice at that last-. Do I have something on my face? –he wondered.

-Your easy smile may be striking, but it doesn't reach your eyes –she mentioned, impressing Claude once again-. Perhaps a practical demonstration will change your current view about my abilities. One week, is by no means time enough to assess your abilities, not reading books at least. We will continue with this lecture, on the Training Grounds, come… -Byleth continued, opening the double doors, and leading the students out of the classroom.

-Wait, what…? –Hilda was the first one to react-. An outdoors lecture? No one told me anything about an outdoors lecture, I did my nails this morning –Hilda complained, and then faced Claude, who was rubbing his chin with interest-. Not that look, I know that look. Are we really doing this? Professor, I well, ow, ouch! I think my ankle hasn't healed yet. Maybe I should stay behind and cheer everyone up –Hilda began, Byleth didn't reply, she just walked toward Hilda, facing her with her usual blank stare, and then kneeled, placing her hand on Hilda's ankle, and surrounding her own hands with white magic-. Hey, that tickles –Hilda blushed a little.

-White magic –Marianne, who sat next to Hilda, mentioned with shyness-. To channel such a pure color… one should be devoting to the goddess rather faithfully… -she whispered, and faced Hilda once Byleth stood up once again-. So pure white color, your ankle must be feeling refreshed –the blue haired girl wondered.

-Well… yeah, my ankle feels as if I wasn't wounded at all… -Hilda replied, although she lowered her face a little-. If only I had known she could use white magic like that, I would have used a different excuse –she whispered to herself.

-What are we waiting for then? There is no way I'm losing an opportunity to have an outdoor training session with Captain Jeralt's kid! Let's go everyone! –Leonie added cheerfully, and impatient. On the table behind of her, Raphael stood up as well.

-Yeah! Who knew studying could be fun! My muscles are ready! Let's go Ignatz! –Raphael added, forcibly grabbing Ignatz by his clothes and standing him up, then pushing him out of the classroom, much to the teen's dislike.

-Wait, Raphael! No need to push me around, I'm also interested in an outdoor experience! –Ignatz complained, only he did so loudly, and in the middle of the Recreation Zone, which in turn won the attention of one of the students on the classroom next to the Golden Deer one, Felix from the Blue Lions House, who sat next to the window.

-They are being noisy, why? We are in the middle of classes –Felix complained, next to him was Sylvain, who faced him, and then faced out of the window, noticing Raphael pushing Ignatz still, Leonie joining with them, and finally the professor making her way out of the classroom.

-Is she… smiling? She looks gorgeous with a smile on her lips! –Sylvain added, not caring enough for the tone of his voice, and then being hit by a book from Ingrid, who launched it from the front of the classroom, winning everyone's attention and worrying Ashe by her side.

-Lady Galatea, that's no way to treat a valuable book! –Hanneman interrupted his class to scold Ingrid, who nervously bowed in a way to apologize-. This isn't like you at all. What could possibly produce such outrageous… why are those students out of their classroom? –Hanneman wondered, walked toward the double doors, opened them, and won the attention of all of his students, who stood from their chairs and went to look out from the windows as well.

-Outrageous professor, while I admit practical experience is important, I don't see the point of an outdoor demonstration of your abilities. I understand your education as a commoner differs vastly from that of the Officers Academy, but that's hardly an excuse to place your students in a compromising situation like the one you are suggesting –Lorenz complained, his words winning Ferdinand's ears at the Black Eagle classroom, and having him turn toward the window curiously about the motive behind Lorenz's complaints.

-You wound me, Ferdinand, was my lecture not of your liking? –Manuela began. Ferdinand immediately stood up and made a reverence-. To be ignored by one of my students, and from such a gentleman. Whatever did I do to fall from your grace –she joked.

-That's not true at all, professor. Your voice echoes on the corners of my mind so gracefully I could hear it day and night without interruption. I was just… caught off guard by… well… I apologize, it's not noble to leave a lady unattended, you have my full attention –he finished and sat down once again, but the damage was already done.

-It's not like Ferdie to interrupt a class. Now I want to know what is going on –Dorothea, who sat by the other side of the room alongside Petra, stood up and rushed toward the window, facing outside and smiling-. Are they having a party? I see Lorenz and Hilda. Oh, maybe he is confessing to her! –Dorothea jumped happily,

-A confession!? –Manuela added with annoyance-. Figures. It's always the young ones having fun! Well, if I can't have fun, no one will! I'm ending this at this very moment –Manuela added, rushed toward the double doors, opened them furiously, and woke up Linhardt.

-I'm awake! –he added, scaring Bernadetta, who used the chance of an open door to run away from the classroom, which ended with everyone else going after her trying to prevent her from leaving, but only ended in them all outside alongside the rest of the students from the Blue Lions, and whining the attentions of the ones from the Ashen Wolves.

-Noble schools really do a little of everything but studying –Shez complained and faced out of the window, winning the attention of some of the students-. Why is the Ashen Demon defying one of her students? Are they having a duel? –he wondered.

-A duel! –Jeritza stood up from the table in front of Shez, scaring Cyril who was almost falling asleep-. An opportunity… I shall witness this duel… -he finished, turned around, and exited the classroom.

-I'm surrounded by idiots… -Yuri complained, and then faced a confused Aelfric-. I apologize, professor, but it seems like the circus is in town. Care to join? –Yuri wondered, Aelfric noticed none of his students was placing attention to his lecture anymore, and allowed the students to leave-. Thank you. Now, what is going on here? –Yuri wondered, and then saw a blade being pointed at Lorenz's face-. You are not serious! –Yuri complained.

-A blade knows no difference between a noble or a commoner, and one can be drawn at any given time. Your reaction to my draw proves you lack the sufficient training. If I had been hired to end you, no noble status would have saved you from my blade –she instructed, while Lorenz fell to the ground.

-Hey Lorenz, no need to be scared. You can stop shaking now; the professor was only sharing a lesson. Even I understood it –Raphael began, making fun of Lorenz, just as Leonie was at that same moment.

-I was not shaking! And I understand a lecture when I hear one, Raphael –Lorenz defended himself, and began cleaning his clothes-. And I also understand the difference between our education, and am afraid that despite this display you call a lesson, professor, I still fail to see the point behind our lecture being in the training ground and not the classroom –he insisted.

-For the love of everything, you are so annoying! –Lysithea complained-. All that noble talk and your inability to see the reasoning behind an outdoor lesson baffles me. The mercenary experience the professor possesses surpasses anything that we can learn from a book. While I agree homeroom lessons should be a majority, if we are to be forced into a mock battle, the practical experience surpasses the theory in this particular scenario, so stop being a child, we already wasted too much lecture time –she finished.

-Impressive Teach, you got even Lysithea interested in an outdoor lesson, and Hilda out of excuses. Not to mention Marianne even cared to join –Claude began, the blue haired once blushed a little and tried to return to the classroom-. Come on now, don't do that to Teach, she is doing her best here –he interrupted her intentions.

-And yet you are still unconvinced –Byleth interrupted him this time, a look of defiance in her eyes, a look of intrigue in Claude's ones-. Let's continue. Time is running out, and we are interrupting the other classes –Byleth continued, leading the way toward the Training Grounds, and winning the attention of certain Bishop who was just walking past the Recreation Zone when she noticed the students out of their classrooms. The Golden Deer students all followed Byleth, that included an annoyed Lorenz, who was still cleaning his uniform, the students and professors from the other classrooms exchanged looks trying to know what was going on, all minus Dimitri, who noticed Flayn by the other side of the Recreation Zone, and facing in Byleth's direction.

-The Western Bishop… -Dimitri began, the image of the Western Bishop that hugged him protectively shortly after losing his parents, once again appeared on his mind-. She is not the same… I am certain she is not the same… but still… why do I feel she is the same person? –he wondered, winning Sylvain's attention.

-Your highness… -Sylvain began-. Even I know falling for a saint girl is forbidden. I mean, the Western Bishop is cute an all, but you need to control yourself –he added, Dimitri then faced him with annoyance.

-Are you accusing me of something, Sylvain!? –Dimitri yelled, winning the whole attention of his classroom, and scaring the hell out of Sylvain, who nervously backed off. His yell also won Flayn's attention, who was even surprised to see Dimitri pulling Sylvain from the collar of his uniform. She delivered a sad stare in his direction before running away toward where the Golden Deer students were heading to-. Mind saying that last one more time? –Dimitri continued.

-Watch it boar! –Felix complained and grabbed Dimitri from the back, Dimitri struggled against him, Sylvain just blinked a couple of times not knowing what was going on-. Ingrid! Do you mind scolding Sylvain! I don't care about what, just do it! –he complained.

-On it –Ingrid replied and began pulling Sylvain from the ear-. I don't know what you did, but this surely is your fault. Back to the classroom everyone, the fun is over! Your highness! Please! –Ingrid called, Dimitri just faced Sylvain with annoyance, but suddenly returned to his usual self and quit struggling against Felix.

-I'm sorry, Professor Hanneman. That was uncalled for -Dimitri began, Hanneman didn't know how to react-. Shall we continue with the lesson? I promise I will take any punishment for my behavior once we are done –Dimitri finished, and returned to his classroom.

-Well, that was something out of the ordinary… but I suppose everything that just happened is… let's just continue with the lesson and leave this for another time –Hanneman added, and invited all of his students back to the classroom.

-The old man has a point. I don't know what happened, but we will all be lectured if we don't return to our classrooms, come now children –Manuela began, and lead her students back to their classroom, while Edelgard and Hubert stayed behind.

-I… don't remember ever seeing Dimitri like that… such… uncontrollable rage. Whatever happened to make him act that way? –she wondered, and then noticed Yuri and Shez still out of the classroom, the House Leader of the Ashen Wolves was rubbing his chin with interest-. Something on your mind? Shall we discuss this on our nocturnal meetings? –she wondered.

-Oh no, this isn't a subject for our meetings, unless you want Dimitri to place both of our heads in a pike –Yuri replied. Hubert, as usual next to Edelgard, directed a cold glare toward Yuri-. Such primal rage is not good. Not for a ruler anyway. So let's try to stay on Dimitri's good side. I wouldn't like him losing control on an important negotiation –he finished, and returned to his classroom, the whole time being closely watched by Hubert.

-Yes… such event would be tragic… wouldn't it…? –Hubert added, and then faced Edelgard-. Before returning to our classroom, Lady Edelgard, there is something I need to say… a warning, if you want to see it that way. Before I was highly against you partaking on these… "reunions", with the other future rulers of Fódlan. But now I have more reasons to ask you to stop. The more I know about this… Yuri… the more convinced I am in asking you to refuse these reunions –he finished.

-And be the only one of the Four Lords not partaking on these reunions? That wouldn't be smart. After all, I don't want 3 countries seeing the Empire as their enemies –Edelgard mentioned while facing the closed doors of the training grounds-. I don't trust Yuri, Hubert, but that doesn't mean I can't use him for my goals. Besides, there is also one on the group that I believe shares my vision. Perhaps I will sound childish, but the more time I spend with those three… the more… I believe that maybe, there is another way… -she admitted.

-And what will you do, my lady, to ensure such vision is completely shared? Will you go after the last consequences needed to ensure one of the lord's cooperation? –he replied with rage, one that was unnatural on him, at least when speaking toward Edelgard-. You and I know perfectly which lord you are talking about, you and I both know there is only one way, for such cooperation to exist. Would you truly sacrifice yourself toward a life as the one you are envisioning, only to secure the cooperation of he who you aren't even sure is the legitimate son of Duke Riegan? –he finished.

-If there is something you wish to tell me, Hubert, I want you to be clear –Edelgard ordered-. But still, I believe you need to understand something… my view, has not been shaken. The world I envision, will arrive. There is nothing I wouldn't do, to ensure my dream comes true, I don't care whose dreams I need to shatter, I will shatter them –she mentioned, such words managed to calm Hubert down, he bowed, and was about to return to the classroom-. I'm not finished, Hubert –Edelgard added, Hubert stopped-. The world I wish to create, will come. I have no doubts about it. But I'm not against sharing my vision with those who are willing to hear it, and seek it with me. If I need a political arrangement of any kind, I will use it. I can't destroy the current system, without using their own tools against them, and I don't care about your thoughts about my resolution, so before you even think about it, and disobey me as you did with the Titanus… I am ordering you right here, and right now, not to try to murder any of them, especially if one of them could end being your future Emperor. Am I clear? –she sentenced, Hubert bit his lips hard.

-As you wish… Lady Edelgard… -Hubert bowed, Edelgard then turned around, and returned to her classroom, and despite Manuela calling for Hubert, his glare was intensely directed toward the closed double doors on the training grounds-. I swear it, you buffoon… you will never have Lady Edelgard, I will make sure of it… -Hubert sentenced, and returned to his classroom.

The Training Grounds.

-Urrrrght… I got the chills for some reason… -Claude complained while shivering, Lorenz and Hilda, sitting next to him at right and left respectively, both faced him with curiosity-. Have you ever felt like someone despises you so much, that he or she can send their bad energy to pierce your heart? I haven't felt like that since my eldest brother tried to kick me off a cliff –Claude complained.

-Kick you off a cliff!? –Hilda added in surprise, Lorenz for once shared a similar reaction-. Wait, you have a brother? How come I have never met this brother of yours? Is he cute? –she wondered, Claude faced her nervously, and then felt Lorenz cold stare.

-So there is another Riegan? How many Riegans are there? I suppose your eldest brother was born with no crest, am I right? –Lorenz accused, but before Claude could reply, the ground close to them shacked hard after Raphael's hard landing.

-Did you see that? She launched Raphael as if he weighted nothing! –Leonie added with surprise, she had a training sword in hand, Raphael was carrying a training axe, Ignatz, with training lance in hand, just began shaking violently.

-I give up! –Ignatz replied, Byleth just faced him, and the way he had been carrying the lance before throwing it-. I'm sorry, I'm not good with weapons. I do want to become a knight, really, I just don't… well… I know I'm not good at all… -he frowned.

-Your eyes… -Byleth began, taking Ignatz's glasses off and placing them on. Claude whistled from his spot at the bench he was sharing with Lorenz, since Hilda was taking care of Raphael's bruises with the help or Marianne, while Lysithea gulped hard when noticing it was her turn with the training sword-. You… have horrible eyesight… whatever you did for this to happen to you… -she finished and returned the glasses to Ignatz.

-I… actually did nothing… I was just… born with bad eyesight… if there was a way to improve, I would do it… there is a lot I wish to see, but my eyes… they aren't strong enough… -he finished, lowering his head.

-Which means that without these you are death –she pointed toward his glasses, Ignatz just nodded-. In order to survive, one must work on their weaknesses. Try a bow –she offered him a training bow.

-A bow? You want me to become an archer? How could I? My eyesight is horrible. I could never… -he began, but Byleth was already helping Ignatz to stand the correct way to use the bow, and helping him aim-. I… isn't this much contact… -Ignatz mentioned while blushing.

-Calm down Ignatz –Claude began, Ignatz gulped, and Byleth allowed him to do the aiming himself-. Well… I will be dammed… -Claude stood up, Hilda, Marianne and Lorenz faced in his direction, Leonie, who still waited for her turn to practice, was impressed as well, she could actually see what Claude was seeing. Ignatz released the arrow, and it hit the bullseye.

-Your glasses improve your eyesight, launching an arrow like you just did, is only possible because of your glasses –Byleth began instructing, Ignatz was impressed since he actually hit the mark-. Concentrate your focus with your glasses, and try to focus as well without your glasses. Always practice on the training grounds, we don't want an accident. Little by little your eyesight will improve with or without your glasses. Perhaps you won't be able to leave your glasses behind entirely, but you will have a better opportunity of survival if you ever lose them with this training –she finished, and then faced Lysithea-. Caring for your weak points, and training to surpass your inabilities, will result in greater chances of survival –she pointed her wooden sword toward Lysithea, who gulped hard.

-Right! Caring for someone's weaknesses is a mature way to approach a training session, but caring for one's strengths is also important. I am sure you understand that sometimes worrying about perfecting one's strengths is far more important than caring for someone's weaknesses. Right? –she wondered, as reply, Byleth walked toward one of the benches, where she had some of her books, took one, and began reading a page-. Professor? –Lysithea asked with curiosity, Byleth then closed her book, and returned to the arena, then readied her sword-. So… I still have to use the sword…? –she asked.

-Mortal Savants use both, swords and magic, we will cover your strengths and your weaknesses –Byleth attacked, Lysithea flinched, and the training sword was knocked down from her hands-. Now use your magic or die… -she whispered.

-Hey! What is that about dying!? Back off! –Lysithea yelled, launching a Miasma ball from her hands, which Byleth dodged, and then placed her sword by her neck-. That's no way to give a lecture! I could get hurt! –she added in a rage fit.

-That was a powerful Miasma attack, good work –Byleth mentioned, Lysithea blinked twice when hearing that last-. I see now why you want to work on your strengths, you must have worked too hard to develop such strong magical attack, that amount of power… it's not something you get naturally. Perhaps you would even be able to control the Dark Spikes T… -she whispered, after hearing that last, Lysithea placed her whole attention toward her words-. Dark Spikes T is a powerful Reason attack that uses Dark Magic to create black colored spikes to slow down cavalry. Not even I believe myself to be able to master such technique, but after seeing your Miasma attack, I'm sure you can master it. It is one of the hardest Reason spells, only someone who works hard enough can master it –she explained.

-I have heard of it! Are you saying that you believe me capable of learning such powerful technique? Wait a second, you aren't just saying this to convince me into working hard, are you? Such childish techniques do not work on me –she added while crossing her arms.

-Childish? –Byleth wondered, she took another one of her books, a notebook, and began reading the sheets with all the info on her students-. You are… 15? So you have a complex due to being the youngest one in the classroom… -she mentioned.

-Complex!? –Lysithea complained-. Wait, you didn't know my age? So you weren't treating me like a child? You do believe I can master the Dark Spikes T? –she questioned, Byleth nodded-. I mean, of course I can. This means I can quit the sword training? –she wondered.

-This means we will work on your strengths, and your weaknesses –Byleth corrected, Lysithea lowered her head ashamed-. But it's getting late, and I still need to evaluate someone else –she faced the bench.

-Leaving the best for last eh Teach? You know, coming up with brilliant schemes, I can handle. No problem. But I'm not much for fighting. Go easy on me! –he winked, Byleth just readied her sword, and attacked, forcing Claude to block with his training sword-. You know that was a joke, right? Jeez, not so much as a smile, and all of the aggressively –he complained, Byleth just delivered an annoyed stare toward him-. I'm not liking that stare Teach –he added.

-And you… are lying… -she replied, and then pressed her attack faster, only Claude dodged and blocked, Byleth stopped for a moment, fixed her sword, and attacked once again, Claude dodged. While all that happened, Lorenz and Hilda laughed a little about what was going on as Claude escaped Byleth, even Marianne laughed a little when Claude ran away on an "strategic retreat" with Byleth on pursuit, the only one not making fun of Claude, however, was Leonie.

-No way… -she began, winning Raphael's attention-. I can't believe this! Claude! –Leonie yelled, Claude was distracted, and Byleth hit him hard on his head, knocking him down, and filling Byleth's eyes with surprise and concern-. That footwork! That speed! Where did you learn to move that way? –Leonie questioned.

-Calm down, Leonie, I can't hear you between the white noise on my head after Teach just squashed my brain. Ow… I need my brain Teach, it is the handsomest part of me… -Claude complained, and then noticed Byleth lowering her stare, which impressed Claude once again-. You know what Teach? You truly are impressive, and I mean it –he began, and then freaked out when seeing Leonie storming furiously in his direction-. Bah! Time out! Why is everyone in this class always treating me as if I wasn't the sovereign Duke of the Alliance? Such violence! –Claude complained and began running away from Leonie-. You know, if I wanted someone chasing after me, I already have Ingrid for that job –he insisted.

-Cut that out! I really need you to tell me where did you learn such footwork? Not even Captain Jeralt moves like that, and she wasn't even containing! I have trained with Captain Jeralt enough as not to notice only an expert sword wielder could move like that! –she insisted.

-Sword wielder? I favor bows –Claude defended himself, and then continued rubbing his head-. Ouch? Am I bleeding? I´m bleeding right? I'm totally bleeding –he added while rubbing his head.

-You aren't bleeding –Byleth interrupted, and then heard the bell announcing the end of classes-. That's enough for today. Tomorrow we will continue inside the classroom, and will study some war tactics from past tacticians. Go rest everyone –Byleth finished, her students all bowed and took their belongings, leaving for their rooms. Before leaving however, Leonie pointed at her own eyes, and then at Claude, meaning she would be watching him closely-. Do you want me to cure your wound? –Byleth began once everyone but Claude had left.

-Come on Teach, we both know you didn't hit me that hard… I mean, it hurt, totally hurt, but I'm not dying from a wooden sword strike –Claude replied, Byleth nodded-. You can kiss my forehead to make me feel better –he winked, Byleth blinked twice, and nodded-. Wait, seriously? That was actually another joke, but don't mind me, I'm totally in for it –he smiled.

-You… aren't actually lying this time… -Byleth added, and then complained about a voice in her head that just yelled at her-. I wasn't going to… stop it… -she complained, Claude just blinked twice-. I am sorry for hurting you, now stand up –she offered her hand to him, which Claude accepted, and ended staring directly to her eyes-. Good… you look disappointed no more… -Byleth added, Claude blinked once again at that last.

-I… don't know what made you think I was… but hey, I'm glad you are happy, if that can be called happy. I mean, a smile would be a better way of expressing your happiness, if you are happy that is –he mentioned, Byleth rested her head at her chin, thinking about it-. You don't usually smile, do you? That was a joke once again. Am I turning into Alois? –he wondered.

-Of course not… your sense of humor is understandable… -she replied, Claude breathed out in relief-. I don't know why I don't smile. But that's not important at the moment. I'm curious… why are you acting? Is there something you need to hide? –she questioned, Claude said nothing-. Maybe I can't smile, but I know smiles, and as I told you before, yours doesn't reach your eyes… you are also stronger than you look, Leonie is right, not many can evade one of my trusts, and you did, I wasn't containing, not for you… -she finished.

-Well that was a troubling confession. Going all out on a sparing practice against me? One would think you hate me. Do you hate me Teach? Whatever did I do for you to hate me –he joked, Byleth just thought about it-. That was… another joke… you know what, let's leave the jokes aside for now… -he added awkwardly.

-I don't hate you… -she replied, Claude faced her directly once again-. All I know is that I have never looked for anyone's approbation but my father's one… and this puzzles me… why do I want your approbation? It makes no sense… -she wondered, and then noticed someone was spying on them-. That's enough for today, go and rest, and care for your wound –she pushed him away.

-Fine, I'm going, I'm going… you are a strange one, you knew that Teach? –he began, Byleth just faced him curiously-. It's like if you didn't belong, as if you were trying to adjust to here, to us… like… an outsider… -he commented, Byleth didn't understand his words at all-. I find you fascinating, and I'm not disappointed, the whole contrary. I feel like I want to know you better than anyone, and maybe I will do just that. Later Teach –he finished, and left the training grounds.

-Knowing me better than anyone else? –she wondered, and then heard a heavy sigh-. I know you are there. Why were you spying on us? –Byleth added out of annoyance and facing a certain column, behind of which Flayn made her way out.

-Oh joy! Is this what they call love? Forbidden one as well! Love between a teacher and her student! As Western Church Bishop I have this feeling of me having to interrupt and be against this, but as a woman, I totally understand and look forward to the fruit this forbidden relationship may bear! –Flayn added, Byleth just faced her in disbelief.

-I got no such feelings –Byleth mentioned, Flayn just lowered her face ashamed-. I have confirmed that you are not a menace. Are you in need of something? –Byleth asked, Flayn thought about it, and took a different pose, one that made her look taller than she actually was, Byleth noticed, and wondered about why she was doing that.

-We already met, but allow me to present myself once again, my name is Flayn, and I am the Western Church Bishop –she added, Byleth nodded, already knowing that information-. I have been watching you, and I am impressed by the way you forge relationships with your students, not the relationship blooming with your House Leader, that one is worrisome, and there is surely a rule against it somewhere. Oh, but worry not, I will not accuse you of anything, but if you ever feel the need of speaking of this with someone, perhaps you will consider me! And if you do, I will totally approve of this relationship and see it fulfilled to the very end. Oh joy, this is so exiting! –Flayn continued, Byleth just delivered a weird stare toward her, one that managed to silence Flayn's search for romance-. But in the meantime, I have a favor to ask of you, will you listen to my petition? –she asked, Byleth doubted, but in reality, she had no reason to ignore her, so she nodded-. Marvelous! Then please, I beg of you, protect Prince Dimitri in my name! –she began, Byleth was surprised for such petition, but decided against interrupting-. Prince Dimitri has suffered a lot, and it breaks my heart to see his suffering. Today I even saw him burst into a force of hatred that was unrecognizable. I worry such hatred will one day consume him, I saw it happen once, and my heart wouldn't be able to stand it if it happened twice, so please, I know you picked the Golden Deer House because Claude picked your interest, but please, care for Dimitri too before his hatred grows so strong that he loses himself -she begged, leaving Byleth confused.

The Library.

-I'm sorry I'm late, Hubert lectured me once again, about being against these meetings –Edelgard arrived to the library, noticing Dimitri by the table and cleaning his nose, and Yuri sitting as far away from him as possible-. Where is Claude? –she wondered.

-Late –Yuri replied while facing Dimitri with disgust-. Maybe he is sick with the same nasty virus surrounding Dimitri, he had been sneezing none stopping. If I get sick, and all nose running, I will declare war to the Holy Kingdom of Faerghus, I'm not joking –he pointed out of annoyance.

-As if you would start a war, Yuri. And because of something so insignificant –Edelgard smiled-. Yet this is a surprise, the Holy Kingdom of Faerghus is cold. You catching a cold is so unreal as Claude falling asleep on his plate this morning. Whatever is going on with you two is beyond me –Edelgard continued, and then heard some whistling, noticing Claude arriving to the library as well-. Now that is a happy tune if I have ever heard one. Something good happened? –she asked.

-Other than arriving and being greeted by your cute face? –Claude flirted, his flirt was effective this time however, as Edelgard blushed after his words-. Was that a blush? Edelgard, I didn't know you were capable of something like that. And don't try to hide it, your skin is so pale as for you to try. You look cute with a blush anyway, so keep it up –he continued.

-Ahem… flattery will get you nowhere… just what is going on here? Who are you, where is Claude? –Edelgard wondered and then faced away so Claude wouldn't notice her blushing even more, and only ended witnessing Dimitri with his jaw dropped.

-You are drooling Dimitri, please don't do that –Yuri added and closed Dimitri's jaw, then he delivered a handkerchief to him-. So, what happened? Did you accept Lord Gunnar's offer? Are you and Ingrid… -Yuri began with a smile, the news of Claude's possible compromise was a surprise to Edelgard.

-Why do you know that? And no, I'm not accepting Ingrid's hand in marriage –Claude complained-. Seriously Yuri, how many spies do you have around me? And why do you care about who I marry? I'm not planning on marrying anyone I don't love, thank you but please stop –he finished.

-Oh, that's disappointing, but surely you know that sooner or later you will be forced to marry someone, do you not? –Yuri added, which wasn't a topic of conversation Claude enjoyed-. Look at me, I'm already promised to Constance. I mean, it is nothing but a political marriage, that is true, but I do enjoy her depressing side sometimes. Shouldn't you be spending your time on the Officer's Academy in getting to know Ingrid better, wasn't that what you were doing before classes? –he wondered, Claude just smiled at that last.

-We were actually talking about Ingrid's blood relation to Judith, one of Claude's closest advisors –Dimitri interrupted-. Yes, it's true that part of such conversation included Claude and Ingrid getting to know one another better, but that had nothing to do with Lord Gunnar's petition –Dimitri defended Claude.

-Thank you, Dimitri –Claude added and took a sit next to Edelgard-. And yes, I am aware that sooner or later my royal responsibilities, especially because no one actually believes I am my father's son, will force me into an arranged marriage so I can bear a crest baby so the Riegan blood can continue to lead the Alliance –he continued-. But alas, Ingrid's temper isn't what I'm looking for in a wife, goddess no. I prefer someone gentler –he finished.

-Come one, there is value in strong women too –Edelgard added in annoyance, Yuri just smiled at that last-. I saw that Yuri, just because Claude managed to make me blush, doesn't mean I am willing to forge that bond with him. No offence, but we would end up killing one another –she finished, Claude clutched.

-Ow and here I thought we were getting along perfectly… but yes, if given the chance you would kill me, I got no doubts about that –Claude added, Edelgard just delivered an delighted stare toward him-. But enough of my likes and dislikes, these reunions were Yuri's way to force us to be friends, are they not? So, beautiful empress. What kind of man would be deserving of your love and why Ferdinand von Aegir? –he joked.

-Ferdi… do you want to argue with me again? You are making this on purpose! –Edelgard added, Dimitri and Yuri exchanged annoyed looks-. But if you truly need to know, there is not much on what I ask for a partner. All I would ask, is for said suitor to share my vision, and be by my side regardless of what happens. A person who would share such burdens with me, and accept me… even if I am the worst person on Fódlan… all I need, is someone who can understand me… -she finished, and then noticed everyone's stares-. What? Is there a problem? Yuri? –she accused.

-No, no, if you want to argue, Claude is the one you are looking for, not me –Yuri defended himself-. Or, if you are asking for my type, I don't know if I have one. And even if I did have one, there is Constance –he finished.

-Either Constance is totally your type, or you are accepting your destiny as the noble man you are –Claude made fun of him-. Come one, that's not a reply at all. If it weren't Constance, then who and why Hapi? –he joked.

-Hapi is cute, and smarter than you think –Yuri replied-. Let's see… I guess Ingrid is a good catch, the way she stuffs food on her cheeks, if only Lord Gunnar had noticed me before noticing you –Yuri joked, Dimitri was surprised to hear that last-. Come on, do I look like the type to reveal secrets just like that, guess again, I don't have a type –he complained.

-Or maybe… that's a way to reveal a secret… and… not admit the secret… Claude? –Dimitri asked for help, Claude was about to say something, but then began wondering about that-. I'm growing more confused by the minute –he added.

-No, you are onto something. That's exactly what I would do, so that means… you know what, let's just agree that Yuri is a perfect match for my cunning –Claude admitted, Yuri laughed at that last while facing him.

-Your turn, who and why the new professor? –Yuri began, Edelgard faced Claude in disbelief, Dimitri just raised a hand as trying to say something, Claude just glared at him with annoyance-. No… wait! Dimitri knows who you like? Why? Are you too so close friends? Is it Hilda? –Yuri asked Dimitri, who flinched-. It is Hilda! –Yuri finished.

-Her? Really? –Edelgard wondered, by the tone of her voice, she sounded offended-. I thought of you as someone with greater expectations. I am disappointed –she insisted, Claude breathed out in annoyance.

-Why is it always everyone against me? –Claude added with annoyance-. Sorry, but it's not Hilda. I mean, yes, I had a crush on her, but I am already over that. Now, time for revenge, Dimitri, your turn –he sentenced.

-Why? You already know –He added, Yuri and Edelgard smiled-. I dug my own grave, didn't I? –he complained, Yuri and Edelgard nodded-. Fine… but I don't know her real name. There was once a girl, when I was younger… soft brown hair… beautiful violet eyes… -he began, and his eyes wandered toward Edelgard, who didn't reflect any emotion toward his words.

-That's cheating, we want to know actual crushes, not your childhood crush –Edelgard replied, Dimitri just breathed out and faced Claude, who just raised and lowered his shoulders-. Come now, we already gave you hints on our possible crushes. Be fair Dimitri –she asked.

-Right… fair… -Dimitri mentioned, and then faced Claude directly, as if seeking for his advice, Claude said nothing-. Marianne… -he mentioned, Yuri and Edelgard opened their mouths out of surprise-. But before you all go asking for wedding invites, she is the adoptive daughter of Mangrove Edmund, and thus, she is not a suitable option for the throne of Faerghus –he added.

-And who would stop you? Your uncle? Different from all of us, the one who decides is entirely you. Want some help? –Yuri asked, Dimitri grunted-. I will help. I will get some spies looking for her likes and dislikes –he added.

-Woah there, as fun as that would be, Marianne is not only a political figure from the Alliance, but my classmate. Spy on her and we will have international issues, you don't want that, do you? –Claude added, Yuri thought about it-. But enough about that, it's getting late, and Edelgard needs her beauty rest –Claude winked.

-Careful Claude, or we will end up arguing once again –she stood up-. Pleasant dreams, and see you at the Dining Hall during breakfast. You sure you don't want help, Dimitri? –she wondered.

-I'm fine, it's just a crush, nothing else to it –Dimitri finished, Yuri also stood up and left the library, and once again, Dimitri was left with Claude-. She is not El –he added, Claude faced him with a smile-. There was no reaction… I was sure she was… -he added and closed his hand into a fist.

-I think the hair was enough giveaway, but hey, you did your best to convince yourself –Claude added-. I thought you had her when you said Marianne, but jezz, she is cold, not a single reaction. I knew it wasn't her. Why Marianne though? –Claude wondered.

-No reason, she is a holly woman, and she is devoted to the Church, just as the Western Bishop, and I can't go revealing such secrets to other political figures. If they knew I… a Prince of Faerghus, harbored feelings for someone not only way older than me, but also a Bishop… well… I don't want to know what would happen if they knew… -he admitted, Claude nodded proudly-. So… the mercenary… -he accused.

-Really? As if I would fall for someone who I just met –Claude added, Dimitri crossed his arms out of annoyance-. Twice… -he defended himself, Dimitri just moved his head in negation-. I'm being honest, hey, I don't like Byleth, really –Dimitri grunted and stood up-. I'm not lying Dimitri, wait up, hey! Dimitri! –he continued, following Dimitri all around the monastery,