Darkness… that was all she felt. Ever since her last encounter with the Innominat, Velvet knew that this was her fate. To be locked in an endless cycle which she undoubtedly deserved after everything she did. But it did not matter for she was finally reunited with her brother Laphi- someone she thought that she would never have the chance to meet again.

Despite feeling anxious and angry about his decision to sacrifice himself to become the Empyrean that would save this world, Velvet could not shake the feeling that she had failed not only her brother but also her family as well. Guilt gnawed at her for not noticing the signs of her brother's inner turmoil sooner. Regret washed over her for not spending more time with him in his final moments, cherishing every moment they had left together. But above all, she felt like a failure for not being able to keep their family whole - just as she had promised Celica.

Even though she could not and would never forgive Artorius- the man who had taken everything from her and betrayed his own family, Velvet couldn't help but question whether all the destruction she caused in the name of revenge was truly justified. The lies and deceptions lure prisoners to their deaths. The burning of Hellawes. The assassination of the High Priest. And countless other innocent lives caught in the crossfire of her vengeful quest. For a time, she convinced herself that it was all for a greater purpose, not for her own sake but for Laphicet, whose life had been cut short before he could achieve his dreams. And yet, even after she finally killed Artorius himself- her last remaining family member, there was no sense of triumph or satisfaction, only an overwhelming emptiness as she watched her former family fade away. But what else could she expect? She was the Lord of Calamity, a bringer of chaos and destruction, destined for eternal damnation according to some. However, her newfound companions disagreed with this notion entirely. Thinking of them now brought a small chuckle to Velvet's lips in spite of herself.

Rokurou, the fierce and nomadic daemon swordsman who lived for the thrill of battle and to surpass his brother as the greatest swordsman. Eizen, the calm earth malakim also led a life of piracy and misfortune. The curse that surrounded him seemed to follow wherever he went, but he faced it head-on with unwavering determination. Magilou, the flamboyant and charismatic self-proclaimed witch and con artist roped in other members to join her infamous "Magilou Menagerie" business. Eleanor, the former exorcist who she trusted the least and even considered disposing of her should there be any sign of betrayal. But in the end, the former enemy had become one of her trusted friends despite their rough start. And lastly, Phi, the malakim who was once nothing more than a tool for her past self to use and discard, had become a brother figure that she thought she would never find again.

What were they doing now Velvet wondered.

A smirk tugged at the corners of her lips as she imagined the gang following Magilou's outlandish idea and traveling as the "Magilou Menagerie." Despite scowling when the witch first roped her into that comedic display in Loegres, Velvet had to admit it was quite entertaining. She couldn't help but smile at the sight of all the other members being pulled into it as well. Little did she know, they had become more than just a group of allies- they were now a tightly-knit family, one that she would never trade for anything. The same went for Kamoana, Medissa, Dyle, Zaveid, Benwick, and the others. What was done was done and she would gladly accept her fate as long as they had another chance to live. The world was saved and there was no need for her salvation- the Lord of Calamity.

Or that was what she thought until that fateful day.

In the depths of a peaceful slumber, Velvet felt a weight lift off her body, almost as if a heavy burden had been released from her. Slowly, she opened her eyes to find her brother standing beside her, his face filled with remorse and sorrow. But before she could fully comprehend the situation, he began to speak; each word carrying a weight that seemed to grow heavier with every passing moment.

"Velvet, I'm sorry! It is all my fault." She shook her head and replied gently, trying to console her brother.

"It is not, Laphi! I chose this myself, didn't I? It is what a selfish person like me deserves for the harm that she inflicted on this world." But her words didn't seem to work as Laphicet shook his head and looked at her with guilt in his eyes.

"Sister, you don't deserve it. All this suffering, all this pain…it is not fair. Not for you."

"If it is for you, then it is worth it, Laphi. There is no hardship that I will not suffer to protect you. Both in life and in death."

"No, Velvet. It was never worth it. It is me who does not deserve salvation for the pain that I put you through. If only I were stronger, then you would not…" His voice was on the verge of breaking as he held his fists tightly, looking away from her.

"Laphi, what are you talking about? Of course, I am…" But before she could finish he raised his hand and looked at her with an incredulous look, starting to make her confused.

"And that's why I can't let you do this anymore, Velvet. You deserve to be free from this endless torment. To live a life just like what we promised back then. And to find your happiness once more."

"What are you saying, Laphi? I am happy to be with you now." She denied vehemently, trying to make sense of her brother's words but to no avail. The boy suddenly raised his hand and looked at her with remorse.

"I know you've always granted anything I wish so let this be my last and final one. You must live, Velvet. Not for me. Not for this world. But for you and your family." Then a light suddenly appeared as Velvet yelled in horrify, trying to reach her hands toward him.

"Please, you cannot do this to me again. How can I live again, knowing that you sacrifice yourself once more for my sake- a selfish girl who does not deserve any forgiveness." Tears began streaming from her face as she shouted desperately. Feeling her presence drift away further until there was nothing but light surrounding her.

"Laphicet!"

Great Tree Moon, 1180

Velvet awoke with a start, her body jolting upright as she gasped for air. Her heart raced as she tried to shake off the remnants of the nightmare that had plagued her dreams. Beads of sweat trickled down her face and neck, leaving a damp trail in their wake. She sat there for a moment, taking deep breaths in an attempt to calm her racing pulse. As Velvet sat there trying to regain control of her breathing, a small snore caught her attention, bringing her back to reality once again. Seraph was sleeping peacefully, holding his lion bear tightly and leaning on Byleth's chest who was hugging him protectively.

That's right. It had been more than five years since that fateful day. She had become a mother and a wife no less, which undoubtedly would freak her old friends out if they ever met again.

Peering out the window of their small cottage, Velvet noticed the first rays of dawn beginning to set over the horizon. The soft hues of pink and orange spread across the sky, a reminder of the task they had ahead for today. According to Jeralt, who was now her father-in-law, they were to depart for the Kingdom. She could barely remember what her impression of the notorious Blade Breaker was but one thing she remembered vividly was how she confiscated his mugs along with the other mercenaries and tossed him into the lake based on Byleth's suggestion (something which she had to debate with him later). But in the end, the famous mercenary had shown nothing but kindness and warmth towards her, despite knowing partly the horrible things she did. Lost in her thoughts, Velvet felt a gentle hand on her shoulder as her husband stirred awake beside her, careful not to disturb their sleeping son in the crib next to them.

"Velvet, are you alright?"

"I'll be fine," Velvet reassured him with a small smile. "Just a nightmare. It will pass eventually." Despite his blank face, there was an understanding in those eyes; perhaps it was why she fell for him in the first place.

"You dreamt about your brother again, right?" Velvet fell silent and just gave him a weak nod. "I wish there was something I could do."

"You don't have to do anything, my love." Velvet smiled warmly and reached up to caress his cheek. "You gave me more than what I could have ever wished. The adventures that I thought I would never experience again. The family that we built together. And most importantly, our little Seraph- the best miracle that ever happened in my life."

"And I could not agree more, my dear." Byleth returned her smile and squeezed her hand. "No matter what happens, I'll always be here for you! Just as when you were by mine." They sat in comfortable silence until their young son began to stir awake, stretching and yawning tiredly.

"Did you sleep well, Seph?" Velvet asked gently, ruffling his messy hair.

"Not really. I am not used to waking up this early. Why do we have to wake at this hour, Mom and Dad?"

"Because we have a job to do in the Kingdom soon," Byleth explained calmly and began to stand up. "It's far from here so we have to leave at dawn."

"But I don't want to leave my bed yet." TSeraph protested, prompting an incredulous look from his father until he sighed heavily as his wife chuckled and carried the boy into her arms.

"You can have a couple of hours more if you want." Seraph quickly buried in his mother's neck and fell asleep. "Let us not have Jeralt wait longer, shall we?"

"Yes, let's."

"What time did you get him to sleep?" Jeralt asked amusingly as he saw Velvet readjusting Seraph in her arms.

"Some unholy hours of the morning." Byleth groaned, earning a sharp glare from his wife. "He wanted to hear another one of the bedtime stories about his mom's adventures again. Something about a witch who got mantis in her hat during one of her performances."

"I remember that," Velvet shrugged. "Phi wanted to keep that mantis, but I refused. So the boy hid it in Magilou's hat of all places. It was quite a sight when she discovered it."

"I have no idea what you two are talking about, but if it makes the boy happy, then that's all that matters," Jeralt smiled and ruffled Seraph's hair while Byleth prepared some tea. "Are you drinking tea at this hour?"

"It's not for me." Byleth shook his head and gave the teacup to his wife. "Chamomile helps to calm her nerve and heighten concentration."

"Are you having trouble sleeping again?" Jeralt asked with concern.

"Yes, unfortunately. The nightmares have been coming back lately. But I'll be alright...father," Velvet said hesitantly, causing Jeralt to chuckle.

"It has been five years, and you are still hesitant to address me, father. Did not expect that from you ever since our first introduction to each other."

"You're right. She was quite intimidating back then. I still remember how I was caught off guard by her shouting during our first mission together." Velvet blushed and looked away.

"And now the kid is starting to imitate that behavior. It may not be effective in combat, but it certainly throws off the other mercenaries during training,"

"Byleth, I thought you told him about this already?" Velvet asked her husband firmly which he returned with a stoic stare.

"And I told you to stop shouting before engaging in combats, especially in front of our son. And that seemed to earn you a nickname as well."

"The Scarlet Demon." Jeralt hummed in amusement. "I must admit that name suits you well. But I can't help but wonder why you always shout that line."

"It's a long story. And you won't believe half of what I said." She replied lazily and sipped her tea as Jeralt gave her a confused look before sighing again. Until a mercenary interrupted them

"Jeralt! Sir! Sorry to barge in but your presence is required."

"What's happened?" The couple quickly followed Jeralt as Seraph also woke up from the commotion. They were greeted by three teenagers dressed in student uniforms.

"Please forgive our intrusion. We wouldn't bother you if the situation were the situation not dire." The blonde kid began apologetically.

"What do a bunch of kids like you want at this hour?"

"We're being pursued by a group of bandits. I can only hope you will be so kind as to lend your support."

"Bandits? Here?"

The silver-haired girl explained. "It's true. They attacked us while we were at our camp."

"We've been separated from our companions and outnumbered. They are after our lives… not to mention our gold." A boy in a yellow cape explained casually.

"The Iron Wolves were wiped out five years ago. They must have followed you here," Byleth murmured, nodding in agreement with his wife.

"I'm surprised that you're staying so calm considering the situation. Wait. That uniform…"

"Bandits spotted just outside the village!" The mercenary interrupted him again. "Damm… there are a lot of them."

"I guess we have no choice then. Byleth, Velvet, you know what to do." The couple nodded and Seraph looked excited for some reason.

"Mom, can I..."

"No, we've been over this," she replied immediately, then turned towards the mercenary. "Laurence, evacuate the villagers and protect my son at all costs."

"Yes, ma'am. Is there anything else?"

"Escort these students and villagers out as well," Byleth added calmly. "Protect them at all costs while my wife and I take care of the bandits."

"We would like to assist you in this endeavor." The red-capped girl raised her hand. "We're students from the Officer Academy and we can handle ourselves."

"Edelgard is right," the blonde boy agreed. "We may not have as much experience as you, but we won't be a bother."

Byleth and Velvet looked at the students incredulously before sighing simultaneously and signaling for them to follow.

"Fine. Just stay close and follow our lead. Velvet, I'm counting on you." His wife nodded, then approached Seraph and patted his head.

"Stay safe and don't wander too far from Laurence. We'll be back once it's all over. And remember what you promised me, Seph?"

"Never disobey mother again." The boy replied lazily as the students looked at them with interest. Once Byleth gave his son a pat on his head as well, the group followed Jeralt's lead and headed for battle, which was looming with each second passed by.

They sought cover behind the trees as the bandits emerged, revealing their sheer numbers and well-armed state. Byleth and Velvet exchanged whispered words with Jeralt, who nodded in understanding before disappearing into the bushes with his partner. The students watched in confusion, trying to process the sudden turn of events. Their thoughts were abruptly interrupted by a menacing voice, its dark tones sending shivers down their spines.

"Hand over the three students you are harboring, and we will leave this place in peace."

Jeralt stood tall, his eyes blazing with righteous fury. "And who am I speaking with?"

"Kostas- leader of the Dread Raiders," he sneered, baring his yellowed teeth. "I will give you one last chance before my patience wears thin."

"And I have another offer for you. Leave this village and never return...or you will not live to see the sunrise."

"Tough talk for a mere mercenary," he mocked. "There are hundreds of us and only four of you. Who is going to stop us then? Your pitiful skills are no match for our strength."

In a swift and graceful motion, a shadow emerged from the sky, startling the bandit leader mid-strike. With lightning-fast reflexes, he dodged, his heart racing with fear and adrenaline. But before he could fully process the situation, another figure appeared, effortlessly kicking his bodyguard into a nearby tree with such force that it splintered on impact. The remaining bandits scattered in a frenzy of panic as they finally registered the presence of two strangers in their midst.

As the chaos settled and the bandits cautiously regrouped, they caught sight of a man with shocking blue hair dressed in all black. He had an emotionless expression on his face, almost like a lifeless doll. Beside him stood his partner, clad in tattered red clothing and her arm wrapped in bandages. Something about them sent shivers down the bandits' spines and instinctively warned them to stay away. Kostas furrowed his brow and tried to shake off the feeling, but deep down he knew there was something dangerous about these two individuals. Something that told him he wouldn't want to mess with.

"You will pay for what you did earlier," he roared. "No one crosses me and lives to tell the tale."

Byleth stood his ground, his expression stoic and deadly calm. "Say what you want," he replied coldly, "but our warnings remain. Leave this place and never return, or there won't be any mercy left for your kind."

But Kostas refused to back down, sneering, "I will not bow to the commands of some lowly mercenaries. Once we've dealt with you and those noble brats, we'll have some fun with the women here. Starting with this one." He leered at Velvet, causing Jeralt and the students to shudder in disgust.

Byleth's eyes narrowed dangerously as he spoke through gritted teeth, "Get your filthy eyes off my wife! Or there will be no salvation left for your souls. In life and in death." The air grew colder, sending shivers down the spines of everyone present.

"Here is your last chance. Leave before I change my mind. Stay, and I guarantee that none of you will escape the fate that awaits you."

The only fate that awaits us is claiming both of your heads as our trophies today!"

With a fierce and unrelenting determination, the men charged forward toward the couple, their weapons raised and ready to strike. The bandits let out ferocious roars as they closed in on their victims, fueled by an intense anger burning within them. Byleth, quick and agile, easily dodged the attack and swiftly sliced down one of the attackers with his sword. Velvet, just as swift and skilled, moved gracefully to the left and delivered a fatal blow to another ruffian with a concealed blade in her hand.

"You've made your choices. Then there's nothing more to be said." With a fierce exhale, she released a deafening roar that reverberated through the air and shook all those who were present.

"I'm going to devour all of you!"