The deafening clash of steel on steel filled the air, drowning out all other sounds. The smell of sweat and fear mingled with the metallic tang of blood, a familiar scent for Byleth. Every movement was calculated, every strike precise, as he danced through the chaos of battle with ease. But amidst the chaos and adrenaline, he felt a deep emptiness in his chest. It was as if none of this senseless bloodshed meant anything to him.

But that was not true, was it? He did not kill these fiends simply because he was ordered to do so. Nor did he revel in the violence like many accused him of. No, he had to take their lives because they threatened to destroy his home and harm the people he cared about. The images of burning villages and weeping villagers flashed through his mind, causing a sickening feeling in his stomach. But why? Why did he feel nothing but an endless void inside- one that seemed to have taken root within him long ago?

Suddenly, the bandit sprang to his feet and charged towards Bylass with his axe raised high. Byleth's heart thudded painfully in his chest as he struggled to shout a warning. Everything seemed to move in slow motion as the deadly axe sliced through the air towards his friend.

The impact was sickening, a sharp and brutal force that jolted through Bylass's body. She cried out in agony, her gasp of pain a haunting sound that pierced through the chaotic battlefield. Her grip on her weapon loosened, slipping from her grasp as she staggered, her eyes wide with shock. In that brief moment, she locked eyes with Byleth, her expression a silent plea for help and understanding. But before any words could be spoken, her knees buckled beneath her weight and she crumpled to the ground, defeated and wounded.

"Bylass!" The gut-wrenching cry exploded from his lips, a primal and desperate sound that tore through the air. It felt as if his very soul was being ripped apart, leaving him raw and exposed. His legs, initially frozen in shock, now surged with adrenaline and carried him forward with a speed and urgency born of sheer terror

The bandit leader and his goons quickly fled the scene, their hasty footsteps echoing into the distance. But Byleth paid them no mind now. His only focus was on reaching her, on somehow undoing what had just occurred. With a heavy thud, he dropped to his knees beside her, the ground hard and unyielding beneath him. His hands trembled as he reached out, his fingers brushing her cheek with a gentle touch. Her skin was pale, almost translucent against the dull steel of her armor. The sight of her blood, dark and spreading rapidly over her armor, chilled him to the core. It was a stark, horrific contrast against the polished metal, a reminder of the brutal violence that had taken place in this very spot just moments ago.

"...Bylass..." He choked out, desperate for her to respond. She was always curious about the wonders of the world, and always eager to learn more. But now, her eyes were closed and her body limp in his grip. "Please, wake up!" he sobbed, as the reality of her death hit him like a ton of bricks.

A barrage of memories flooded his mind: their shared laughter, the countless battles fought side by side, her unwavering determination and fierce loyalty that never faltered. Each memory was a sharp blade, piercing through his heart and leaving behind a deep longing for what once was. The void her loss left behind was a chasm too great to ever be filled. "How could this happen?" The question echoed in his mind; a relentless torment that threatened to consume him whole.

"Your tears hold no meaning." The voice echoed like a cavern, but he refused to meet its source. "She is nothing but a puppet like you. Nothing more. Nothing less."

"Silence!" He yelled out, his voice cracking with emotion as he tried to shush the intrusive thoughts and doubts that plagued him. But in this moment, none of it mattered. All that existed was the overwhelming sadness and despair that consumed him. With trembling hands, he cradled her lifeless body, her face serene and peaceful as if she were only sleeping.

It hurt. It hurt so much.

And he was crying. Tears flowed freely down his face, their heat scalding his skin as they streamed without restraint. His vision was distorted. His mouth was dry.

"Why don't you take a look at yourself then?"

He shook his head, a wave of emotion crashing over him as he wiped at his tears with trembling fingers. But to his surprise, they remained dry. A sudden pain crossed his mind, as the surroundings became distorted. He tried again, pressing his fingers against his cheeks, but still no tears came. With growing panic, he touched his face once more, searching for any sign of moisture, but found none. As he gazed at his reflection in the blade, he saw not a crying man, but the face that had haunted him since he arrived in this land - an emotionless facade that was anything but normal.

That… that was impossible. He felt them…. He knew he was crying. How could they not be there?

"Because you are…. A puppet!" The voice grew louder and more accusing, like a chorus of angry voices speaking in unison. But this time, he did not fight back. Resignation took over him as his body began to tremble. He wanted to cry. He wanted to scream. But no matter how hard he tried, nothing changed. Just an emotionless façade he grew to be sick of. Holding Bylass's body tightly, each word felt heavier as each second passed by, begging for an answer that he would never receive.

"Please tell me… What am I…. What was I supposed to do?"

Byleth shook his head, the memories still fresh in his mind. He focused on packing up his belongings, hoping to distract himself from the lingering thoughts. After finishing, he let out a deep breath and walked over to the window. The full moon shone brightly in the night sky, casting a peaceful glow over the quiet landscape. But even with this serene scene before him, his mind was still troubled and unsure of the events that had just unfolded.

"It was just a dream. Nothing more." He muttered bitterly, unaware that it was heard by a visitor.

"What dream?" a voice asked. Byleth turned to see Bylass standing in the doorway, looking at him with a calm expression.

For the first time, he remained utterly speechless as he gazed at her incredulously, unsure what he wanted- no, needed to say. His heart pounded against his ribcage, aching with a mixture of relief and disbelief. Was all of it just a mere nightmare? Or was it simply an illusion- one that had been plaguing him for too long? He stood in the doorway, hesitant to fully let her in, afraid that she would disappear if he dared to believe this was real. She nodded at his silent invitation and began to close the door behind her. As their distance grew closer, he could feel her presence becoming more tangible with each step she took. Every inch of her radiated warmth and life, a stark contrast to the coldness that had consumed him since she left. Yet, those guilty memories remained, flashing through his mind like a broken reel. The images of her cold body in his arms, his desperate cries for her to wake up, the apologies that were never conveyed. But it didn't matter anymore because she was here now. And that was more than enough.

"You know she perished in that battle, her life snuffed out like a candle. So, tell me, who or what is this, standing before you now?"

"Shut up!" Byleth snapped, shaking his head before locking eyes with Bylass. Despite her blank expression, there was a shared understanding in her gaze, along with an unspoken worry.

"Byleth, what's wrong?" He stared at her for a moment, taking in every detail. Neither of them spoke as he hesitantly placed his hands on her shoulders. Bylass's eyes widened briefly before she relaxed under his touch and he began to speak.

"You are here. This is not a dream, isn't it?"

"It's not. I'm here—can you feel it?" She gently squeezed his arms until he seemed to relax, though something still troubled him deep inside.

"But what if it is just a dream? A cruel trick that will only end in disappointment and failure?"

"Byleth, what happened?" Despite her confusion, she asked gently as Byleth took a deep sigh and began.

"Let's just say... things would have been different if I hadn't stopped Kostas before he could pull one last trick."

"Different? How?"

"Because I saw you died, Bylass." A silence followed as Bylass opened her mouth in shock, surprising even Byleth himself.

"How can this be…."

"But it didn't happen, right? You stopped Kostas before he could harm any of us," she reassured him, hoping to ease his guilt.

"If it were an illusion, then I don't even know what is real and what isn't anymore. Even my feelings- something I've realized that was never there from the beginning." Her attempts to reassure him seemed to backfire as he looked away distantly, making her feel a pang of guilt.

"Byleth, I know this might be difficult for you. But how did I …die?"

"You used yourself as a shield and rushed to save that Red Cape girl." He replied calmly and yet she could not help but feel guilty about it. "The next thing I knew, I heard your cry as you were struck down by an axe. I knew then that I would regret my mistake forever, for not being able to save you when I was so close."

"…"

"I tried to speak to you, to beg you to stay with me. But no matter how much I tried to lie to myself, I already knew it was too late and there was nothing else that could be done. All I could do was stand there helplessly, watching you leave this world behind with many promises that could never be fulfilled."

"But I don't recall that happening. Are you sure it wasn't just a moment of fear or a trick of the mind?" Bylass lied hesitantly, trying to push away the guilt that gnawed at her.

"I wish it were that simple," Byleth replied calmly, but his eyes betrayed a hint of wavering. "Those feelings were too real for them to be an illusion if one even existed. Even now, I can still feel how I held your lifeless body in my arms. The coldness spreads through your pale skin. And despite all the pain and sorrow, I couldn't shed a single tear."

"How is that possible? I know we aren't exactly the best at expressing our emotions, but..." Bylass trailed off as Byleth's distant voice interrupted her.

"That's just it. I'm starting to not understand myself anymore. The pain was overwhelming and intense. It felt like a part of me was missing like I was trapped in a state of shock. I wanted to cry, to scream, to do anything...but all I could do was stare at your lifeless body with this empty, hollow feeling. Like...a puppet."

"And then what happened?" She asked softly, trying to steer the conversation away from a painful topic she knew would only bring more anguish for him.

"Just when I thought everything was over, the scene suddenly shifted, as if I was thrown back into reality. Despite not understanding everything, there was nothing else that mattered to me anymore as I rushed to stop him before it could happen again. But even so, the guilt remains and those feelings begin to haunt me once again. And it's tearing me apart." HByleth's previously stoic voice cracked with emotion as his hands began to tremble. "The weight of your body, the coldness...it's all so vivid in my mind. And yet, here you are now." Bylass looked at him with confusion and disbelief written all over her face, despite her best efforts to maintain her composure.

"So, you're saying I died? And this person in front of you is just...an imposter?"

"Of course not!" He replied immediately. "I would never!" He avoided her gaze and clenched his fists. Neither of them said anything as a pregnant silence followed them. Until Bylass suddenly swapped her arms around him, pulling him into a hug.

"Don't say anything," she whispered. After a moment of hesitation, Byleth relaxed into the hug, allowing himself to find comfort in her presence.

"Do you feel it?" Her gentle voice chimed like a soothing tune, enveloping him in a feeling of solace. "My voice. My fingertips. Can a mere illusion embody such tangible sensations?"

"Of course not." He squeezed her gently. "You're here, that's all that matters." Byleth let out a relieved sigh as they parted from their embrace.

"I'm sorry," he said softly.

"For?"

"For troubling you with troubles again. Sometimes, I think I don't deserve you, Bylass."

"It is I who does not deserve you, Byleth," Bylass muttered weakly. "You've taught me so much and yet I never got to repay that kindness. I just wish there was something I could do to help you."

"Don't apologize, my friend. Perhaps you were right, it could just be a dream or illusion. After all, there was no such thing as time reverse, right?" Bylass suddenly fell silent as she looked at him incredulously. "Is there something wrong?"

"Nothing," she said nonchalantly before glancing at the doll on his table- one that resembled her. "She's been keeping you company, hasn't she?"

"Yes. She has been a great friend recently despite not being very talkative." Byleth remarked dryly, making her lips curved upward.

"Same as your little friend as well. A bad companion for conversation but he did a good job protecting me from bad dreams and nightmares."

"I'm glad you like it then." Byleth hummed in agreement before looking out at the window again. "Are you planning to go back to sleep now?"

"Yes, I think so. We have to depart early tomorrow after all. I'll see you later then. Good night, Byleth!"

"Good night, Bylass!"

19th of Great Tree Moon, 1180

"You both packed up already?"

"Yes, Jeralt. Shouldn't we leave now?"

"It seems that Alois and the noble brats wanted to meet up at Remire before heading to Garreg Mach before sundown. Oh, there they are now." The trio spotted a group of Knights of Seiros along with the noble kids they rescued yesterday who seemed pleased to meet them again, to which Byleth and Bylass offered a polite bow.

"Shall we go then, Captain?" Alois asked eagerly.

"Yes, let's-" Jeralt was interrupted as a crowd of villagers rushed towards them, including Lydia.

"You know, it's rude to depart without a proper farewell." Lydia scolded playfully.

"It was a sudden and urgent departure that couldn't be delayed any longer," Jeralt explained with a sigh. He turned to Lydia, whose expression softened with understanding. "But we'll try our best to visit should everything be done."

"I'll hold you to that promise," Lydia said with a smile. She then looked at Alois, waving at him with a bright grin. "Alois, take care of the captain for me!"

"Of course, madam! You can count on me. And if the captain gets into trouble, I can just 'reel him in', as he reels in fish, right?" An awkward silence followed as everyone processed the joke. Byleth and Bylass exchanged speechless glances despite their stoic expressions, while Jeralt sighed and put his hand on his face.

"Another time, kids! Anyway, I believe you have something to say to Lydia, then?"

"Yes." Bylass began. "Lydia, we're leaving now."

"It's unfortunate that we have to part like this. My shop will be lonelier without you two here."

"I know. But we'll come back once everything is settled. And Lydia, thank you for everything." Bylass gave the florist a quick hug which she returned warmly.

"It was my pleasure, dear." Then Lydia turned to Byleth. "And you—young man, make sure you don't skip meals since I won't be around to remind you."

"No promises!" Byleth replied bluntly, catching everyone's attention. "Duty keeps me busy and there's always work to be done."

"Too busy to visit my garden?" she retorted sarcastically. Byleth gave her a blank look before replying hesitantly.

"It's also part of my job—I want to make sure the flowers are doing well."

"My boy, I know you're hardworking and eager to help everyone, but please don't overdo it. Promise me you'll rest and not take on too much. You're no good to anyone if you're exhausted, and it saddens me to see you in such a state." Lydia said worriedly. The blue-haired man fell silent before sighing heavily.

"I promise, Lydia. I'll remember that."

"And if you don't?"

"You know that I will never lie to you, Lydia." He replied sincerely as she suddenly gave him a warm hug, which he slowly returned the gesture.

"Take care of yourself out there and become a good man. And can you send me a letter from time to time? Just to let me know how you are doing?"

"Of course." She smiled warmly as they parted their embrace. Just then, a group of small kids approached Byleth and Bylass with sad expressions.

"Do you have to leave?" One of the kids asked with a quivering voice.

"It seems so," Bylass replied, crouching down to their level. "But don't worry, we'll see each other again. Just make sure to take care of yourselves while we're gone."

"But who will protect us from the bad guys without you two here?" another child chimed in, her voice full of fear.

"That's why you need to continue your training, even when we're not here," Byleth interjected firmly. "Keep practicing and you'll be able to handle any danger that comes your way."

"But we are not as good as you two." The duo looked at each other before ruffling the children's hair playfully.

"You don't need to be perfect, kids. As long as you have determination and courage to protect this village, that's all that matters. And if danger does come, we'll return as quickly as possible."

"Will you fly back to save us? Like guardian angel?" Byleth paused for a moment before responding in a soft tone.

"Yes, just like a guardian angel. That's what I am, right?" The children nodded eagerly as Jeralt cleared his throat, signaling that it was time to depart. With one last farewell to the villagers, and departed with the knights.

But little did he know, promises were never meant to be kept.

"So, what do you guys think of the "Grumpy" and "Irritated" fellows there?" Claude asked with a playful grin, earning a disapproving look from Dimitri.

"That's because you keep asking if they're Angel and Demon. It's rude to pry into personal matters when they're not comfortable sharing,"

"But didn't you hear earlier? He said he'd spread his wings and fly back if the village was in danger. And she does have a pretty intense look. Don't you think they seem related?"

"You do realize they're staring at you right now, don't you?" Edelgard remarked sarcastically, as Claude turned to see the blue-haired pair watching him with blank expressions.

"If you are that curious, you can just ask, Master Riegan," Bylass replied bluntly. "And for the record, we are not siblings or distant relatives."

"Just call me Claude, please. But seriously, it's hard to believe your explanation of how similar you both look, your armor styles, and even the way you talk. Are you sure you didn't grow up together?"

"Absolutely. The only family I have is my younger brother," Byleth stated plainly.

"I see. And where is your brother now?" Byleth's expression hardened as he replied guardedly.

"With all due respect, that's not something I'm willing to discuss. Anything else you'd like to know?"Before Claude could speak again, Edelgard raised her hand to interject.

"How did you train yourself to reach such a skill?"

"Which part, Lady Edelgard?"

"You can just call me Edelgard. Returning to the question, I would like to know how you two could execute such a level of cooperation. The way you two moved in battle and helped each other as if you could understand each other without a word."

"It's from years of experience and training," Bylass said casually. "Plus, he became second-in-command right after joining us, a position I used to hold."

"I didn't realize that still bothered you," Byleth replied bluntly, giving her a blank look.

"I never said it did." An awkward silence followed as they stared at each other with the same expressionless faces. While Edelgard and Dimitri looked embarrassed at the situation, Claude was having a hard time trying to contain his laughing. The silence continued until Dimitri began with an awkward laugh.

"You seem to be close with the villagers, especially the florist. How long have you known each other?" Byleth paused before replying nonchalantly.

"Probably two years ago, around the same time I met Jeralt and Bylass. Then we began to cross paths as she needed some help with her shop. I helped her and she helped me, round and round it goes."

"Really, for a moment, I thought that was your mother. She is fortunate to have you around then." Suddenly the air grew tense as Claude felt a chill run down his spine. The blue-haired man looked at him incredulously, and even Bylass seemed nervous for once. However, Byleth's lips curved into a small smile as he replied fondly.

"You are not wrong though. She is indeed my mother- one that I don't think I deserve." To say Bylass was shocked was an understatement as she widened her eyes and looked at Byleth in disbelief.

"She'll be glad to hear that from you," Dimitri said gently. "And the kids seem to adore both of you. How did that happen?"

"It was a coincidence. They saw us training and wouldn't leave us alone until we let them join in. Surprisingly, Byleth was the first one to agree despite usually refusing everything."

"What did I refuse, Bylass?" Byleth asked calmly, staring at her blankly again.

"Convincing local taverns to ban Jeralt from alcohol?"

"That's extreme, even if we share concerns about it."

"What about infiltrating that underworld organization by posing as a decoy?"

"Jeralt would have my head if I allowed it, and I couldn't let you do so."

Was it because you were worried about my safety?" Byleth fell silent, avoiding her gaze before nodding slightly, which made her smile faintly.

"Not a word, Claude," Edelgard warned as Claude began to laugh. Their banter was interrupted by Alois's voice.

"We're here." The duo looked ahead, taken aback by the grand castle they had never seen before.

"Is that Garreg Mach?" They asked simultaneously.

"Yes. This is the Monastery." Edelgard explained. "It's also home to the officer's academy. Garreg Mach was established after the War of Heroes, where Saint Seiros and Wilhelm von Hresvelg defeated the King of Liberation, Nemesis." Suddenly, Byleth's eyes widened as he interrupted curiously:

'Did you say Nemesis?" Edelgard seemed taken aback and looked at him with interest until Claude chimed in.

"Yes. It's a shame his bloodline has died out. However there are rumors and legends suggesting otherwise- like his first child may still be alive, waiting for the right moment to reclaim their inheritance. It's quite intriguing if you ignore the fact that this figure would be over thousands of years old."

"You never know, Claude," Edelgard remarked dryly while Byleth drifted into deep thought. Just then, Bylass approached to check on him.

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing. I just feel like I've heard that name before. Anyway, should we go meet up with Jeralt now?"

"There's no need for that, kids." Jeralt suddenly turned back and dismounted his horse, followed by Byleth and Bylass. "Follow me."

As they bid farewell to the students and Alois, the trio made their way across the expansive courtyard. Jeralt's eyes wandered to a balcony above, where a striking woman with flowing emerald hair stood, observing them intently. Her elaborate attire indicated a position of significant authority within these walls. Byleth's gaze locked onto her, and immediately, a sharp pain seared through his head. His vision blurred, distorting reality as unintelligible sounds echoed in his ears like a haunting melody.

Amid the chaotic visions that flickered before him, a familiar figure materialized—the enigmatic woman from his dreams. They clashed once more, their swords meeting in an ethereal duel. Her mere presence churned his stomach, filling him with an overwhelming sense of revulsion. Disgust gnawed at him, eclipsing all other emotions. Then, piercing through the cacophony of his thoughts, he heard it again—the voice brimming with intense anger and hatred, the same one that always seemed to echo from the darkest recesses of his mind.

"My mother! My father! My life! My humanity! You took everything from me. What more do you intend to steal from me? Answer me, ******?"

"Boy, are you alright?" Jeralt asked in concern.

"Don't worry, it will pass, Jeralt," Byleth reassured him, shaking his head. He then gestured toward the space. "Who is she?"

"I'd advise against pointing at her, Byleth. That's Rhea, the archbishop of this monastery."

"Archbishop?"

"As you know, the majority of folks in Fodlan are devout followers of the teachings of Seiros. The leader of that ridiculously large organization is the archbishop- lady Rhea."

'Was she the one that you asked me two years ago when I first met you." Jeralt went silent and then replied carefully.

'Meet me later when the meeting is done. For now, let's not have the archbishop wait for us." The trio moved forward and was guided by one of the Knights who led them to the archbishop's chamber.

"It's been a long time, Jeralt." Rhea began. "I wonder… was it the will of the Goddess that we have another chance meeting like this?"

"Forgive my silence all these years. Much has happened since last we spoke."

"So, I see. The miracle of fatherhood has blessed you. Those are your children, right?" She suddenly seemed hesitant.

"The girl is indeed my daughter, born many years after I left this place. I wish I could introduce you to her mother… but I'm afraid we lost her to illness."

"I see. My condolences. And what about this young man?"

"We met him on a mission two years ago. Believe it or not, he is not related to us despite such uncanny similarities. As for how I know it, it's not my place to tell, Lady Rhea."

"Don't worry. What are your names, children?" Bylass began to bow politely, which was followed by Byleth.

"My name is Bylass Eisner. And here is my companion and trustworthy friend Byleth."

"Fine names indeed. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for saving those students of the Officers Academy." Jeralt began to sigh. "Jeralt. You already know what I wish to say, do you not?"

"You want me to rejoin the Knights of Seiros, don't you? I won't say no, but…"

"Your apprehension stings. I had expected that Alois would have already asked this of you. However, I have another proposition for you."

"What is it, Lady Rhea?"

"I'd like Bylass to become a teacher at the academy."

'A teacher?" The trio asked in unison.

"Rhea, are you sure about this?" Her assistant asked in disbelief.

"I am, Seteth. She has proven herself on the battlefield while protecting the students. Alois told me how she managed to rescue them despite being outnumbered. He spoke very highly of her."

"No offense, but it was a team effort, Lady Rhea," Bylass replied bluntly. "And it was Byleth who killed the bandit leader, saving the students and myself." Jeralt looked at her skeptically while the archbishop seemed to ignore it.

"I know. The house leaders also informed me how he decapitated the bandit in the heat of battle. While I'm grateful that the students were safe, such methods are… extreme and not suitable for a professor."

"I won't take offense then," Byleth shrugged as Bylass looked at him briefly before turning back to Rhea.

"Very well."

"Are you sure about this, Bylass?" Her father asked in surprise.

"I am. I have one condition."

"What is it that you wish, dear child?"

"Can Byleth enroll in the academy too—as a faculty member?" Byleth widened his eyes while Jeralt could barely contain his shock. Rhea seemed hesitant before looking at Seteth.

"Do we have any open positions?"

"I believe Professor Jeritza still needs another Sword Instructor's Assistant; his last assistant didn't meet his standards."

"I see. Byleth, right? How do you feel about working here?" Byleth thought for a moment before sighing.

"I'll accept the position, Lady Rhea."

"Good. It seems you've all made your decisions. Unfortunately, I have other matters to attend to now. May the Goddess be with you." With that, the archbishop and her assistant left, leaving the trio alone.

"I can't believe it. Forced back into the Knight of Seiros." Jeralt began with a resigned voice. "I'm sorry that I dragged you into this. Looks like we'll be stuck here for a while."

"Don't worry, Jeralt," Bylass reassured him. "I think it's a good opportunity. Though honestly, this job seems more suited for someone like Byleth."

"And why do you think so?"

"He was a teacher," Bylass replied as a matter-of-fact as Jeralt looked at Byleth with a newfound interest.

"Teacher? Why didn't you ever mention that before?"

"I wasn't sure about it myself and still am. The memory is pretty hazy, to be honest."

"I see. Anyway, kid, Byleth and I need to finish his application, so we'll be gone for a bit. As for you, you can—"

"So. You must be the new professor. My, how stern and handsome you are."

"Er, no. I'm the one you are looking for. You can handle things from here. Good luck." Then he whispered to her ear cautiously. "And… watch out for Lady Rhea."

As soon as he finished, Jeralt quickly left with Byleth who gave her a small nod before leaving. Despite her curiosity about what other matters that the two men were about to have, she put it away for now and began to listen to instructions from her new coworkers.

This would be an interesting experience, or so she thought.

"I believe you want to talk about the archbishop then." As soon as they entered Jeralt's old office, the Blade Breaker looked around cautiously and closed his door immediately.

"Yeah, and I think you have something to say too." Byleth fell silent for a moment, giving him a blank stare that didn't quite match the intensity in his eyes. They both took their seats, and Byleth began.

"Do you remember the woman with emerald hair I mentioned two years ago?"

'Yes. What about her?"

"When I saw Archbishop Rhea, those memories came flooding back. The feelings of disgust and hatred grew stronger every second I looked at her. It took everything in me not to do something rash."

"But what could she have done to make you feel that way?" Jeralt asked, clearly shocked. Byleth hesitated for a moment, taking a deep breath before responding darkly.

"Because she was the one who killed my mother, Jeralt."

A heavy silence followed as Jeralt struggled for words. He scratched his head and spoke firmly.

"That is a strong accusation, boy. You're lucky that no one heard that or even the Goddess could not save you from the wrath of the archbishop."

"I didn't mean to say she did it," Byleth replied defensively. "But for some reason, those visions got stronger when I looked at her. And that hatred… it felt too real to ignore."

"Then our best bet is to avoid Rhea as much as possible. But are you sure you've never met her before?"

"This is the first time I've seen her, Jeralt. By the way, is this the Garreg Mach you mentioned before?"

"Yes."

"And what was the reason if I might ask." Jeralt fell silent before answering with a conflicted voice.

"Because I thought you were a spy sent by Rhea to keep an eye on us." Byleth seemed taken aback but remained calm as he touched his chin in thought.

"Did you leave the Church on bad terms?"

"It's complicated. But I owe Lady Rhea a huge debt which I intend to repay. However, there's something about her that worries me—something involving Bylass that I need to find out."

"You noticed it too?"

"Yes. For someone she just met, the archbishop was very insistent on keeping Bylass here and even offered her a prestigious position. Whatever her plans are, I will find out sooner or later."

'Could not agree more. Archbishop or not. The last thing will greet her is my steel blade should any harm come to Bylass."

"I appreciate your concern, but be careful with your words. The Church of Seiros does not take kindly to blasphemy. But Byleth, are you serious about protecting my daughter?"

"Yes, Jeralt. With all my heart." The Blade Breaker paused for a moment before nodding in satisfaction and squeezing Byleth's shoulder gently.

"Byleth, I know this might be sudden. Can I trust you with the safety of my daughter?"

"Jeralt, is everything alright?"

"Just answer the question. Can you promise me that you will do anything to keep her safe, even if the odds are against you?"

"I can. Even if it means putting my life on the line. I won't let what happened before happen again." Despite his calm demeanor, there was a fierce determination in his voice as Byleth clenched his fists.

"And what if the foe is someone powerful that you cannot handle yourself?" Byleth went silent for a while before replying darkly, as his voice was cold as thin ice.

"Then they will face judgment by the fury of my wrath. For I will not allow anyone to harm my family ever again. Even the Goddess herself."