Chapter 16 – Old Friends, New Mysteries
Jeralt sat in his office, facing an enemy of three centuries he had yet to beat. Paperwork. For all the hardships of being a mercenary, it had perks. Light paperwork for one. Oh, there was still paperwork and books to manage, but it was manageable. The paperwork that came with being the Captain of the Knights of Seiros? Mission reports, recommendations, inquiries, you name it. He sighed and heard his current assistant chuckle. He shot a glare at the young man. He could have him punished for that. Not that he would. Jeralt reserved that level of pettiness for squires that needed an attitude adjustment. Since they arrived at Garreg Mach, he had been thrown right into the thick of it. Had he not been the Captain of the Knights before, he might have thought Rhea was punishing him for leaving. Instead, it was the same workload he had for centuries.
"Worried about your daughter? I'm sure she and the students are fine. They should be walking through the gate any minute now." Alois asked. He sat on a small couch against the wall with an unopened bottle in his hand. He was dressed in casual white jerkin and tan slacks. It was his day off, yet his wife had insisted he stay and spend time with an old fossil like him.
Married with a daughter… Jeralt thought. He felt a pang of guilt. Alois was eleven when he took him on as a squire. He taught him how to fight, how to drink, and how to live his life. He remembered when he placed his sword over his shoulders and proclaimed him Ser Alois, Knight of Seiros. And then, Jeralt left without a word of warning or parting. Yet despite that abandonment, Alois greeted him with a smile and welcomed him back.
"I'm not worried Alois. You've seen her in action, she can deal with any issues they might have." Alois laughed and waved his hand dismissively.
"Captain, that might have worked on me a few years ago, but not anymore. Why, I get nervous when my daughter does needlework of all things!" Alois shook his head. "Just the thought of her going into battle…"
Jeralt huffed. "Trust me, it took a while for me to let her out of my sight without panicking." Jeralt set down his pen. He was ready for a break. Jeralt moved to take a nearby chair near Alois. He looked at the bottle in his hand. A hard liquor from Gautier territory. His favorite. Jeralt reached for it, only for Alois to pull it back just out of reach.
"A bit too early Captain." Alois chided. "I may no longer be your squire, but I will hold myself to the rules Lady Rhea set."
Jeralt sunk back into his seat, defeated. Whenever he got a squire or assistant, Rhea would pull them aside and make an oath to the Goddess to follow her three rules. Most folk had no idea how mischievous she could be. But he knew, and that twinkle those emerald orbs was something he learned to fear.
"That was years ago Alois, there's no need to keep doing it." Jeralt argued, hoping he would see reason. It was torture for his favorite drink to be so close but just out of reach. "Besides, the day's almost over. Just a…"
His assistant swiped the bottle from Alois's hand, turning it over and inspecting the label. He hummed. Good, at least he still had the loyalty and respect of his underlings. "I don't know Jeralt, I think he might be right." He changed his mind, he was surrounded by mutineers, traitors, and evil men. "What's Lady Rhea's rules? Are they for the knights in general, or just Jeralt?" He asked Alois, whose smile widened.
"Just Jeralt. There are three rules. No drinking before the sun begins to set, do not let Jeralt gamble his clothes away, and ensure his tab is paid in a timely fashion!" Alois said without skipping a beat. He remembered the origin of the second and third rule. When he lost the clothes on his back in a card game. It was one of the few times Rhea joined him, in disguise of course. He would have gotten his trousers back, had she not 'accidentally' dropped them into the fireplace. It was there he first saw that twinkle in her emerald eyes. And when he learned to fear it.
"Best start running Jeralt, before there is talk of a degenerate among the knights." She taunted. He had been a knight of Serios for five years at that point and had already risen to be Rhea's favorite. He had been shown the secret passages in and out of the monastery and used them to make it back to his quarters. Only to remember that he had left the archbishop alone in a pub, undefended. By the time he raced through the tavern door, she had bested every patron in arm wrestling, earning a considerable amount of coin while she was at it. She tried to use it to pay off his tab, but it wasn't enough. Which led to her giving him an earful about being responsible with his money. It was one of his best memories of Rhea, and he believed she felt the same. That day made him truly glad to serve her. She had been beautiful, charismatic, and most of all kind. He felt that way for nearly three centuries. But time changed them. Those fun times were infrequent. When he escorted her back to the monastery, she told him he was the first man who had taken her out for drinks since Wilhelm. It took years for him to realize the gravity of that admission and who she was referring to.
"That's not too bad. In the year I've been with him, it hasn't been a problem. Though it was By that kept him on a leash." Lucas responded. Jeralt huffed at his spot-on assessment.
"Be careful lad. He would go months, even years without issue, so I would drop my guard. Then," Alois slapped his hand on the table. "You find out he's been slipping out nightly for unknightly behavior!" Alois let the pun hang. "Get it?"
Lucas made a noise that was something between a groan and laughter. He muttered something about dad jokes, though Jeralt could make out little else. He had been pleased when Seteth came by earlier that morning to report what had happened on the mission. While he was disappointed that Shez would not be joining them in the knights, he saw the merits of Seteth's decision. Shez was young and still getting his start in the world. If he made good connections with the likes of Edelgard von Hresvelg, he would get reliable and good paying work with little issue.
"Alois loves puns like that kid. Best to get used to it." Jeralt warned.
"If I could handle my grandfather's puns, I can take anything he throws at me." Lucas retorted, setting the bottle of liquid gold on the table. Jeralt tore his gaze away from the bottle and looked out his window. The sky was still blue, but sunset wasn't far off. Soon, he thought.
"I take that as a challenge Ser Lucas!" Alois let out a hearty belly laugh, stressing his title as a knight. Lucas smiled; Alois's energy was as infectious as ever.
"Can I even use that yet? Isn't there some ceremony that needs to be done, oaths, vows and all that jazz?"
"The knighting ceremony is simple. It can be done anywhere, so long as a priest or priestess of the Church is present to ratify and make a written record." Jeralt explained. "Joining the knights of Seiros usually means being knighted by the Archbishop herself, but it can someone else."
"It's true. Sad to say, there are some cases of knighthoods being revoked because the person doing so was of questionable character or low rank. In general, the higher rank or status of the person who knights you means fewer challenges. In my case, I requested that Captain Jeralt be the one to knight me. And who can argue against the Blade Breaker himself!" Alois added.
"As for the title? Seteth says you're fit, I say you're fit, and it looks like Alois says you're fit. I'd say you can start using it."
"A knighthood… Wonder what Nerys, Cat, or Izzy would say about that?" Lucas wondered. He knew the first name but didn't know the other two. His sisters perhaps?
"Your family I presume?" Not good, Jeralt thought. He tried to get Alois's attention and stop what was coming. "I can send word and invite them at once! It is a once in a lifetime moment for you and…" Alois trailed off noticing Lucas's expression. The young man's expression was blank, but his clenched jaw and glassy eyes betrayed him. Alois looked over to Jeralt who was still making a waving motion over his throat. Alois put his hands in his lap and looked back at Lucas. "Forgive me. It seems I've touched a nerve."
Lucas cleared his throat. "Nothing… There's nothing to forgive" He stuttered. "I've had some time to process. It just…" Lucas trailed off. Alois didn't push the young man, choosing to let the conversation die.
Lucas returned to Jeralt's desk and picked up some remaining papers. He handed them to Jeralt. It was his way of coping. He threw himself into another task to distract himself. Jeralt skimmed the heading for each report before sighing. "These can wait for tomorrow. How about you go wait at the front gate. Byleth and the Eagles should be back soon." He handed the papers back. Lucas took them and put them back on his desk and left with a half-hearted goodbye.
Silence reigned after the door shut. After an uncomfortable silence, Alois coughed and retrieved a pair of mugs. He uncorked the bottle and poured, though the sight of his favorite drink no longer brought him joy. He gazed out the window and saw hints of orange in the sky.
"I'm sorry captain. I seem to have put my foot in my mouth once again." Alois apologized. Jeralt sighed.
"Don't worry, you couldn't have known. To be honest? I think the kid needs to think about what he's lost more often." Alois raised a brow. "He hasn't moved on, not really. He's accepted that they are gone, but he hasn't made peace with it yet. All he's doing is ignoring the pain, not working through it."
"I see your point. Still, he looked happy and content with you and your mercenaries. I suppose he's at least has found some measure of happiness."
Jeralt smiled. "Leave it to you to look on the bright side of life Alois. I've missed that. And you, old friend."
"You've always been able to pick out people who needed you Captain, me included."
"You would've been fine without me Alois. You're a fighter, no matter what path you chose, you would have thrived."
Alois swirled his drink and looked back at him. "So, how does it feel being back?"
"Strange. Like putting on an old set of armor. It feels new and familiar all at the same time. But something has changed."
"You haven't changed a bit captain. Have no fear of that."
"I know I'm not the one whose changed. Old men like me? We get too stubborn and stuck in our ways. It's how this place feels that's changed." He took a sip, savoring the flavor. Sitri's face flashed in his mind, her smile radiant and divine. "It feels wrong to be here without her. I was here for so long, but it was only when she came into my life that Garreg Mach felt like a home."
"We all mourn her captain. But she has a living legacy." Jeralt thought about rebuking him. His story about Byleth being the child of a woman he met after the monastery had been what he told Rhea. But Rhea's reaction, or lack thereof proved it was futile. Alois was his right-hand man, hell he was his best man at the wedding. "You have raised your child as best you can. Perhaps here she will spread her wings and find her own way in life."
Jeralt didn't argue. Already he had seen his daughter throw herself into studies and lesson plans. While he still felt uneasy about being back, he could tell Byleth fit into Garreg Mach. And then there were the rest of his mercenaries. Flora had reported that his men liked the stable work and were willing to settle down. That made their chances of having a clean break from the Chuch go from slim to none. Rhea was good, of that he had no doubt.
A knock at the door broke him from his thoughts. Jeralt groaned, praying that it wasn't more paperwork. He opened the door, only to be greeted by a pleasant surprise.
"Jeralt. I hope I'm not interrupting anything?" Aelfric asked in his genial tone. Jeralt shook his head, before welcoming him in. Alois rose quickly to bow to him. Aelfric smiled and waved it off. "None of that Alois. I'm not here as a Cardinal, just a simple man wanting to see an old friend." He looked at the table, seeing their drink. He raised an eyebrow. "You realize this is still a monastery? I don't believe that the Goddess would approve of such base sinfulness within her hallowed walls."
Alois became flustered, spouting off weak excuses. Jeralt saw the corners of Aelfric's mouth twitch ever so slightly. Jeralt sighed before slapping a hand on Alois's shoulder. "He's messing with you Alois." Finally, Aelfric began to chuckle, confirming Jeralt's claim.
"Forgive me Alois. The three of us together like this reminded me of my youth. I couldn't resist slipping into old habits."
These two were talking like they hadn't seen each other in some time. Aelfric had told him about his ascension to Cardinal at Lonato's feast, so he would have been in an out of Garreg Mach frequently. Did their duties keep them apart, or did Aelfric cut him off?
"Oh, you were such a prankster when you were young! I must admit, you kept us squires on our toes! Do you remember the time you painted a mustache on the statue of Saint Chichol!"
Aelfric nodded. "I do indeed. Those were good times." He retrieved an empty glass. "Do you have room for one more?"
"Take a seat Aelfric. Time to see if you've gotten any better at holding your liquor."
"I do not think I have. But let us find out anyway. But I think some food would do us all some good. Alois, would you mind getting something from the dining hall?" Aelfric said happily. Alois left the room, promising he would bring something. The door shut leaving the two men alone. "So, she finally found her."
Jeralt nodded. "Like I said at Lonato's feast. It was only a matter of time. I haven't really talked with Rhea, not since I arrived. Seteth seems like a good gatekeeper for her. When did he start working here?"
"He was invited to be her aid three years after you left. I admit, he is an excellent administrator."
"We probably have a few minutes until Alois gets back. What is it you don't want him to hear."
Aelfric licked his lips. "Are you aware of the subterranean labyrinth below the monastery?"
"I am. Rhea told me it was the ruins of an old city the monastery was built on top of it."
"I have taken the opportunity to convert that ruin into a community. Pagans, exiles, political outcasts and the like. It has been my focus since Sitri died."
"Admirable. Fodlan has never been kind to people who don't belong. Even so, I find it hard to believe Rhea would let that group literally live in the Church's shadow."
Aelfric began to play with his nails, a nervous habit Sitri used to pull his ear for. "I find the Archbishop becomes more agreeable when I invoked Sitri's name. I told her it was something she would have approved of."
"A bit dirty using Sitri's name like that." Jeralt scolded halfheartedly.
"And by doing so, I have given a home to hundreds so they might live in peace. Would she have minded the fact I used her name to convince that woman to do that right thing?" It was interesting that Aelfric was avoiding using Rhea's name. They both suspected Rhea was hiding something about Sitri's death, but even then, Aelfric was still using her name.
"No. She would have. In fact, she would have been right next to you using her puppy eyes on Rhea. She never could say no to her."
"No, she couldn't. She was her daughter after all."
"Careful… the walls have ears." It was old gossip. Rhea was always taking in orphans and strays, but Sitri was different. She paid more attention to Sitri than any other orphan. While many orphans came to call Rhea mother, their resemblance was uncanny. This led to the rumor that she was Rhea's illegitimate daughter. While the Church of Seiros had no rules barring the Archbishop from marrying or having children, it would be politically disastrous. So, it stayed rumor, for Rhea and Sitri's sake.
"She lied, Jeralt. To you and to me about her death. Something happened that night, and she wouldn't tell us. Us!" He stressed. "You, her husband, and me, her brother. We of all people had a right to know!" Jeralt shared his frustration but was still taken aback by his vitriol. His anger had cooled over the years, while Aelfric's festered.
"I know. And I agree. But there's something else. What did you find?" Jeralt demanded, cutting to the point. "That's why you came here, right? You told me you found something in Gaspard. I could appreciate you keeping me and my kid out of it then, but now we're here."
Aelfric paused. He looked down at his feet and closed his eyes. After a minute, he looked up and his lips parted. Unfortunately, Alois opened the door with the promised food. Aelfric relaxed his posture, his intense expression turning into an easy smile. Like they had just been talking about the weather. This talk would have to wait. The three old friends talked for the evening, Alois sharing more stories about his family. Jeralt smiled, genuinely happy to hear them. But Aelfric's grin was all fake. And it bothered him. What had he learned? And what did it have to do with the labyrinth underground?
"She's fine." Prometheus assured him. "It's just a couple of bandits. Who I might add have lost their leader and are desperate enough to hid in sacred territory."
Lucas huffed. "I know she's fine. I'm just… processing that dream I had." The ability to share memories or even thoughts was something he had been wondering about. When magic became real, he tried to adjust his sense of reality to compensate. It was like trying to learn a new rule of nature. But after several books and talks from mercenaries, he came to a basic understanding of magic.
Magic was in essence the manipulation of the natural world by directing mana. Magic, like matter, couldn't be created or destroyed, only transformed. When a mage took magic in from the atmosphere or ground, they compressed that energy, and converted it into another form. Meaning that for all of magic's uses, it was bound within the laws of physics and reality. Fire could be made, water could be frozen, even his teleportation could be reproduced by walking from one place to another. Exchanging words was just the ears processing waves and converting them into useful information. So, could magical communication be used shortcut to insert information directly to the brain?
"No, that's not quite right. Magic is the control of Maso particles that flow invisibly through the world. Think of it like light. It's both a wave, and a particle. Unlike light, its energy is mostly inert until something activates it." Prometheus commented.
Lucas blinked at his correction. "So, does it come from the sun like light then?" If it was unique to this sun, that could explain why his world lacked such abilities. People being able to use magic would just be the natural result of evolution of being able to process a particle that was foreign to him.
"No, it's… cyclical and self-sustaining. Rather than coming from the sun, it flows through the world, all the way down to the core. It can travel through the empty space between atoms, meaning Maso particles can move through most forms of matter. With a few exceptions of course." Prometheus took a pause. "The part about transforming Maso is mostly accurate though. I suppose science hasn't been completely lost."
"Wouldn't Maso particle just be another word for mana?"
"No, Maso is the correct term. And don't worry, there is still a lot about the Maso particle that has yet to be discovered. It can be as confusing and frustating as miraculous. And I use that word very loosly."
"When I was experiencing your memories, I got the impression you didn't like your superiors."
"I didn't. Then a friend offered me a high-ranking position. Told me I would have chance to make my ideas a reality and show those idiots how it's done." He laughed. "When things were made official, he had this sly grin on his face that screamed 'I know something you don't'."
"What was it?" Lucas had tried to figure out the masked man countless times. He saw from his memories he was a soldier, but he doubted that was his only role. He reminded Lucas of Edelgard but less grandiose. A leader, maybe a captain or even a general of some kind?
"People talk a big game when it comes to leadership. They love to talk about how they would do things, how they would never make the mistakes their predecessors made. But no one is truly prepared for stepping into those shoes and making life and death decisions. I remember the first time I sent men on a risky assignment." Prometheus scoffed, his echoing voice getting lower. "They all died. I let their loved ones scream and berate me to their hearts' content. I'd be lying if I didn't feel shame at how arrogant I was when I thought I had the answers. I tried to be less judgmental after that." Prometheus paused. "But that specific superior? He was an idiot and I standby everything I said and thought about him." Lucas laughed a bit. But the dream held more than just Prometheus thoughts.
Lucas could still feel everything in that dream. And not like a normal dream where sensations are muffled or nonexistent. He could feel the weight of the sword, the gravity of the moment, the cold breath of those things. He could still feel Prometheus's excitement at his adrenaline filled slaughter. He should have been disgusted by Prometheus's satisfaction. They may have been monsters, but it wasn't right to enjoy fighting, it was a step too close to psychopathy. It went against the sensibilities his parents instilled in him. But he couldn't judge, not anymore. Afterall, he was the same now.
"Can you teach me how to fight like you?" Lucas's skills had plateaued. And now that he was a knight, he wanted every advantage he could have. And the masked ghost was his best resource.
"I've been teaching you for over a year. Where do you think you could use a sword on instinct? Why did you have reactions that take years to develop?" It wasn't a shocking revelation, he assumed as much. "But instincts can only take you so far. Byleth has done well honing that instinct and making you into a decent swordsman. Shifting has kept you alive. But my other magic isn't as… instinctive…
"You can turn me into a better swordsman?" Prometheus shook his head.
You might never be a master swordsman. I was good, but I would hardly call myself a master. No Lucas, I want to turn you into a Wraith."
Luca raised a brow. "A Wraith?" Prometheus nodded.
"That's what we were called. To put it bluntly? There are no hard and fast rules, you just win your battles. We preferred sneaking in, hitting hard, and disappearing. When it was time to fight head on, we used tricks to get one over our opponents." He paused and let his words sink in.
"Why now? Why not teach me when I first woke up, or when we arrived at the monastery?"
"Don't tell me you haven't noticed how things are moving? Sothis wasn't part of the original plan. The three heirs of each nation are here. There's a storm approaching. The world is moving, and we need to keep up. So?"
Lucas let the speech set in. Lucas agreed with him, as he often did. "I'm in." Lucas nodded. The whole time, Lucas had been speaking aloud. He thought they were alone and saw no reason to speak within his own mind.
"Young Lucas?" Tomas asked, some distance away. Lucas spun around, relaxing at the sight of the elderly librarian. Tomas hobbled forward, his cane striking the marble floor. "Might I trouble you for a moment? I am afraid my assistants are busy, and I have several tomes to move. Can I ask for your assistance young man?"
Lucas relaxed. "Of course, Tomas, it's not a bother. I was just waiting for By… I mean Professor Eisner to get back." It seemed like Prometheus's training montage would have to wait.
Tomas laughed into his sleeve. "Then I shan't keep you long young man. It will only take a few minutes. Besides, you may find some of our tomes interesting." Lucas motioned for the librarian to continue. "Well, some are ancient tomes that speaks a long-lost civilization!"
"In that case, I'm more than happy to help." Stories and movies about lost or mythical civilizations like Atlantis fascinated him. With a library and a whole new world, that meant lots of fresh new stories he had never heard of. And that excited him.
Thales sat in his office, his false pearl eyes scanning the files before him. Their efforts to implant a spy within Garreg Mach had taken years, but that endeavor was now bearing fruit. That fool Lonato would be predictably crushed. And on his corpse, plans of the Archbishop's assassination. Then, Solon was to coordinate the raiding of the Mausoleum with the Western Church fanatics. Those zealots were after the remains of Seiros, while they were after the true prize, the 'Sword of the Creator'. He fought down the chuckle. The fact Seiros chose that name never failed to amuse him. Once it was secure, the capture of Cethleann would be a bonus. Weakened or not, her blood would be a boon to their people. Then, it would be time for their pawn Edelgard to begin her war and fulfill their grand design.
But Lucas Raithe had entered the equation. Now, Thales had another objective. He needed to keep Lucas alive and safe. Solon's cover was that of a librarian, so he could only keep an eye on him from within the walls of the monastery. He needed someone closer to him, sooner rather than later.
And then there was their own little pawn, Edelgard. The girl was a masterpiece, the culmination of their research regarding Nabatean blood. They used their remaining samples of Sothis's biological samples to grant the Crest of Flames to the girl. Once she possessed the 'Sword of the Creator', her ministers would proclaim it a sign from the Goddess which confirmed Edelgard's holiness. Using the so-called holy sword to justify overthrowing the Church of Seiros was going to be such delectable irony.
But Myson had cautioned him on their pawn's growing independence. His fellow sage was their best strategist, so he treated his concerns with the utmost severity. He warned that even with Solon in the monastery, she had too many opportunities to conspire against them. He and his fellow Sages suspected the girl would try to turn against them. What concerned him was not if she would, it was when she would. If it was after the Church and the beasts that controlled it were annihilated, they would dispose of her with little fuss. If it was before or during the war, they had other contingencies, but it would ruin their grand plan. Thales would have to kick that can down the road. To ensure her rebellion would begin at the end of the war, they would have to place an agent within her inner circle to dissuade her from such actions. And to do that, he would have to get her help. He sent a message several minutes ago, informing her to contact him as soon as able.
"It is rare you contact me directly like this Thales. What has gone wrong this time?" Cleobulus taunted, her voice seductive and husky. She had not just chosen Cornelia Arnim on a whim; she had chosen Cornelia Arnim out of vanity. She had stated that she was closeted to matching her own beauty. It was no surprise dealing with her was… tiresome.
"Nothing has gone awry. Yet steps must be taken to ensure our plans come to fruition in this everchanging landscape." Thales responded, brushing off her attempt to anger him.
"Ominous… Whatever it is I can do for Agartha, I shall Thales. Simply speak your desire…" If this conversation had taken place in person, she would be doing her best to distract him with her body. She was predictable, that which she could not bully into submission, she sought to anger. Those she could not anger, she tried to seduce. But she was a child compared to him, and he was growing weary of her feeble attempts to gain the upper hand.
"How goes supporting Lonato's rebellion?"
"As well as can be expected. Propping up a group of illiterate peasants. His actual fighters are limited to his household guards, which number in the dozens. Hardly an even match for the might of the Church of Seiros." Cleobulus reported. "Though I have made sure to keep my involvement limited to third parties. Perhaps we shall get lucky, and he will succeed in killing that old shrew."
Thales frowned. "Luck is the weapon of a fool."
"But if there is one thing gods fear, it is a fool. Who else would challenge them?" She quoted back.
"Do not use his words against me, little girl." He stressed, emphasizing the difference between them. "I was there, not you. Now listen to my orders, I expect you to follow them. If you are incapable of them, I shall entrust our interest in the kingdom to Myson instead." Cleobulus went silent, he could imagine her face twisting into an ugly scowl. The game had changed, and now their plans must change with it.
Byleth road through the front gates with her class in tow. There was little fanfare, it was a job gone right after all. The gatekeeper saluted, with his customary grin. She was hoping Shez or Lucas would be waiting. She was eager to know how their initiation went. She doubted it trumped her turning back time.
"I am sure they are fine child. Perhaps they were preoccupied with their new duties?" Sothis reasoned. Byleth agreed with the logic, but still wanted to know their outcome. "How impatient." Sothis scolded. But then her tone turned teasing. "I suppose you wanted to Lucas to be waiting for you at the gate with bated breath, a bouquet of flowers in hand, ready to confess his undying love and…"
"I get it Sothis, please stop." Thankfully, Sothis relented, though her smug grin indicated that her teasing would continue. Sothis had discovered one of Byleth's weaknesses, her ineptitude with romance.
"I suppose I shall grant you mercy this one time. If only to save some for later." Byleth swore this ghost was the overbearing aunt she never had. It made her thankful for her father's hands off method.
"Professor?" Edelgard asked, grabbing Byleth's attention. "Since this is your first mission, you might not know the protocol. Typically, you will report to Seteth or the Captain of the Knights of Serios. Since this is your first assignment, I shall join you for the debrief." Byleth nodded.
"Did I meet your expectations?" Byleth asked bluntly. She had figured that Seteth tasked Edelgard with assessing her performance during the mission. While they had escorts from the Knights, they had been ordered to hang back and allow the students to accomplish the mission on their own.
"You did indeed professor. Surpassed them, even. Your skill with a blade was never in doubt, but your ability to lead our… interesting group of students was. And you did professor, far better than the craven who abandoned us."
Byleth appreciated both her compliments and her straightforwardness. "Thanks." She replied. Edelgard waited, seemingly expecting something else from Byleth. She tried to wrack her brain for something else to say. Thankfully, a knight with a bored expression walked forward.
"Professor Eisner? Seteth sent me to retrieve you and Princess Edelgard. Please follow me." He said curtly. Byleth nodded and turned to address the Eagles before she left.
"Some of you had your first kill." She started. The knight from earlier leaned back against the wall, playing with the pommel of his sword, uninterested. "I want you all to know, you did well. You didn't lose your nerve, you stayed alive, and we all made it back in one piece." Caspar perked up. Dorothea and Ferdinand nodded; their expressions resolute. Petra remained stoic, while Bernadetta and Lindhardt were… Bernie and Lindhardt. "When you decided to become fighters, you accepted the reality you would take another life. Some of you will sleep well tonight. Some won't. Either way, there isn't anything wrong with you. Everyone processes things differently. We won't have lecture tomorrow, take the day off and relax."
Edelgard stood next to her, taking control of the class. "And if any of you want to talk about the mission, do not hesitate to reach out to me." She brushed a strand of hair behind her ear. "While I am your future empress, I am still your fellow student first and foremost." The black eagles nodded, and the class dispersed.
"Do you think everyone is doing alright?" Byleth asked. While she had gotten to know them for the few weeks she had been in the monastery, Edelgard had known them far longer.
"They are all strong-willed Professor. Do not worry. Now, I must insist we not keep Seteth waiting. I believe our escort is getting impatient."
The knight pushed off the wall and began marching towards the Central Cathedral. Seteth's office was next to the Archbishop's, allowing for easy access between the two. As they crossed the bridge, the knight spoke. "So, you and Lucas work together long?" He asked.
"About a year since we've met. Been partners for most of that time."
"Hmm. I was with him for his 'initiation'. Things got outta hand fast." This worried Byleth. Just as she was about to ask or more details the man cut her off. "He's fine if you're wondering. He and the kid did well. Though the kid didn't pass. No knighthood for him."
"What happened?" Edelgard asked, a touch of concern lacing her voice.
"Kid got hit. He recovered fast though and helped us put down that scaly bastard. In the end Seteth decided he wasn't ready for the knights of Seiros. Or at least ready for the Shamir treatment."
"The Shamir treatment?" Byleth inquired. Edelgard answered the knight.
"She is a Dagdan mercenary whom the church has employed. For her skills, she was given a position within the Knights despite being an outsider."
"Can't say I like someone cutting ahead of men and women who worked their way up, but she at least has the skills to back it up. Lucas too, I suppose." He turned his head and studied Byleth up and down. "Names Waymar Mateus in case you're wondering. Anyhow, here's Seteth's office. Have a good day."
Byleth and Edelgard thanked the man, though Byleth's eyes lingered on the knight. Pompous knights and nobles were a part of their business, and she had grown adept at reading them. The slight respect he had when speaking of Lucas said he made at least one begrudging ally in knights. But what about Shez? What did his future hold? Her 'little brother' had endeared himself to her, his puppy energy was hard to not like. She would have to ask Seteth during the debrief.
Before Edelgard had a chance to knock, Seteth called out. "Enter!" Edelgard paused, before opening the door. The office was the same functional yet elegant design, though one of the occupants of the room was not who they expected.
"Professor, Princess Edelgard. I am glad to see you safe and sound." Rhea said, bowing her head slightly. "Forgive me for intruding, but I wished to hear your report as well." Seteth cleared his throat.
"Before we begin, I heard there were no major complications or concerns" He asked Edelgard. Byleth tried to avoid looking offended.
"That is correct Seteth. I found the professor to be extremely competent in matters on and off the battlefield."
"Was there a time you feel she left you to fend for yourselves?" Seteth asked. Was that aimed at her, or the last professor?
Edelgard paused, weighing her words. "There was a moment when we were forced to split up. One of the bandits had taken the high ground and was pushing boulders down a pyramid to crush us. The professor placed me in charge of dealing with the bandits while she pushed up to deal with that foe." Seteth nodded.
"Do you feel this was appropriate? Leaving a student in command such as that while danger still exists?" Seteth's question was pointed but did not seem accusatory.
"I am sure it was necessary Seteth." Rhea interjected. "Please, do not compare Professor Eisner to her craven predecessor." Seteth went silent and gave Rhea a complicated stare. Then he turned to address Byleth.
"I was not trying to accuse you of anything. You are responsible for the welfare of the future leaders of Adrestia. You must get used to justifying you actions to me, even those that are tactically sound."
Byleht nodded, swallowing her pride. "I understand. My job is to keep them safe and teach them, while yours is to make sure I'm living up to the task." Seteth smiled, happy at her assessment. He looked like he was about to question Edelgard something when Rhea spoke up.
"I believe we have heard all we needed to. Edelgard, you may go. Professor, I have some questions for you about the Red Canyon." Rhea said in her kind tone. As turned to dismiss Edelgard, Byleth realized that it was the first time Rhea had taken her eyes off her. Edelgard gave a smile to Byleth as she passed, shutting the door behind her. They hadn't even gotten into the details of what happened… "What did you think of it? Zanado I mean? It is a holy site; one the Church has protected for years. I'm curious of the impression it made on you."
Byleth thought back to that place. The ruins of an old city, the wrenching nostalgia she felt, and that vision all came to mind. Without thinking Byleth nearly started talking about her experience.
"Hold on!" Sothis called out to her. "Don't you think it's odd? She didn't ask you anything about the mission, she practically kicked out your student, all so she could ask you about what you thought of Zanado?" Byleth knew Sothis was right, it was odd. "Of course, I'm right!" She declared imperiously.
"What do you think we should do?"
Sothis went silent, Byleth could imagine she was rubbing her chin while lounging in her throne. "We tell her it felt familiar but leave it at that. She's fishing for something. But whatever you do, don't tell her about me." She didn't need to be reminded of that. "Perhaps we should put her off balance to better divine her intentions?" Byleth took a moment and thought of a way.
Byleth had been quiet for nearly a minute. Rhea seemed tense and refused to break eye contact. Seteth on the other hand seemed bewildered at the turn their meeting had taken and reached for his mug of steaming liquid. "It was old and dusty." She said bluntly. Rhea was too dignified to react overtly, but Seteth was not. He choked on his cup of a hot black liquid and began to cough violently, the whites of his tunic stained by his drink. "And familiar, as though I was home." She added. It was meant to sound like an afterthought. But Rhea's eye lit up. In fact, were those emerald orbs… glowing?
"And what was familiar about it? Did anything else strike you?" Rhea asked. Her expression was still that serene mask, but something underneath felt almost electric. Byleth opened her mouth to elaborate, only to realize she didn't plan that far ahead. So she shrugged her shoulders. This caused the excitement Rhea had to subside while her normally composed air returned. "I see. Well, if you are at all curious about Zanado, please, do not hesitate. In fact, if you need anything at all, feel free to reach out. My door is open to you." She smiled, bowing her head. Seteth cleared his throat, looking somewhat strangled at the offer.
"I am sure it has been a long day for you professor. Perhaps you should retire and meet with your friends. I'm sure you would be interested to hear of our own mission" Byleth pursed her lips. Seteth frowned before he clicked his tongue. "I suppose Waymar told you about Shez." Byleth nodded. "He is fine health. But his youth and immaturity were apparent, so I could not recommend to the Knights of Seiros."
"Will you be putting him to work as a mercenary then?"
Seteth smiled. "No, he will be joining you as a student and a member of the Black Eagles." Byleth was surprised, and it showed on her normally stoic face. "He still played a hand in saving the Officer Academy's reputation. So, an education in the most prestigious academy in the world is fair compensation in my mind." Just then, an aid knocked on the door with a large stack of papers. Byleth turned to leave the meeting, confident it was over. As she left, she swore she heard a thud followed by a groan.
"That woman's reaction was unnerving to say the least. She was nearly vibrating when you said it felt familiar." Sothis did not manifest as she walked. She was more comfortable sitting on her throne within her mind, only manifesting when they were alone in her room.
"A bit of an overreaction Sothis. She seemed eager, but I don't think it was that obvious." Zanado wasn't the only thing that felt familiar. Something about Rhea herself
"It was obvious to me. I could feel her excitement, like a dog awaiting a bone." Sothis huffed. Byleth could imagine her squirming on her throne. "It makes little sense, does it not. Making you, a mere mercenary a professor?"
While it stung her pride a bit to be called a 'mere' mercenary, she could not argue the point. "Father served her for years. Maybe it was a way to sweeten the deal and make sure he stayed?"
"And yet she seems enamored with you spefically. In any case, we should ask your father about his relationship with that woman."
Byleth agreed and tried to figure out her next move. The students were given the day off and she had nothing to do. What first though? Look for Lucas or her father first?
"Ah, Professor!" A young woman called. Byleth turned and found Flayn. "I see you have returned unharmed. I take it the mission went well?" She asked.
"It did. I just got done reporting to Seteth and Rhea."
"I heard you gave your students the day off." She nodded, her expression turning sad. "Taking life is never easy, even when necessary. Especially for the first time. It was wise of you to give them time off."
Byleth nodded her head. "Still, I feel like I should be doing something else. Something more… personal for them. I never had that problem with killing, and I know I'm not good at this sort of thing."
"That is good then." It was? "It is better to admit one's shortcomings than bluff around them. If I may, perhaps speak to one of the clergy members. While they may not have sufficient or clear answers, Priests and Priestesses are skilled at counseling people through their problems."
"I was under the impression that it was their job to quote and enforce scripture?" Flayn giggled.
"That is a part of it, yes. But I believe that the Goddess' teachings are meant to help us find peace and happiness both with others and ourselves."
"I've never been one for religion, so I'll take your word for it."
"You are within the center of Fodlan's religious studies. While I do not judge for lack of faith, I nonetheless hope the Goddess's words take root in your heart."
Byleth nodded but doubted it. Still, the idea of getting a priest to help them was a good one. Father had told her that religion, politics, and nobility were intertwined. Odds were at least one of her students would benefit from such counseling. She would have to speak to Edelgard later.
"Who would you recommend? Counselling for the students I mean."
Flayn placed her hand under her chin. "I will speak to my brother later and get a list of names. Until then, would you like to dine together?"
"I was trying to decide if I should visit my father or Lucas first actually. Have you seen either of them?"
"I saw Lucas helping Tomas with some books earlier. Perhaps he's in the library? As for your father, I believe he and Ser Alois are in his office together. I spoke to Alois earlier; he said something about 'catching up' with Ser Jeralt."
"You seem well informed."
Flayn blushed. "My brother forbids me from attending class or leaving the monastery. Thus, I have little to do but read books or gossip." Blyeth ah'd in understanding.
"I must say, I find this girl to be delightful. Pray, take her with you. With her help, you may just find your wayward…"
"I get it Sothis" Byleth interrupted, sensing her mischief. Sothis huffed arrogantly, before going silent.
"I think I'll head to the library then. Would you like to join me?"
Flayn gave a short bow. "I would be delighted!"
Lucas grunted as he set down the stack of books on the table. It was the fifth he had taken from the wagon outside. It was a short walk, only ten minutes or so, but with all the weight it was awkward. The librarian who was far too old to do such a job had gone back to his office. Lucas took a moment to pick up a book from the pile. 'Mysteries of the Old World' was its title. It was thick and hefty, but the author was missing. He opened the first page to read the opening.
Written by Lord Cornelius Noa, Imperial Year 253. Reproduced by Brother Auralio of House Hevring in 855.
While the founding of the Empire was a turning point in history, it should be remembered it was not the start of history. The King of Liberation, Nemesis, was known for his talent with a blade and appetite for war. What was lesser known was his insatiate hunger for books and knowledge. He coveted and pillaged countless libraries across Fodlan and adding them to his own. It was a tragic loss when the library was burnt down following his defeat at the Battle of Tailtean Plains. Whatever remained was gathered by Emperor Lycaon I and transported back to Enbarr. As such, most written records of Pre-Empire have been lost.
The purpose of this book is to catalog and analyze various tales, records, and accounts I have discovered in my long journey. I have sailed the seas, visited the savages of Brigid, dined with the Khans of Morfis, wrestled with the King of Almyra, and more adventures than I dare list. But nothing has interested me like the lost history and civilizations that preceded our own. My many friendships opened many doors, some of which have allowed me to find records even I believed myth.
This book will contain three parts. Firstly, the mythical 'Age of the Gods' to which history becomes increasingly obscure. Since the earliest known event has no date, I have decided this part will end roughly 2000 PE (Pre-empire). The second part shall range from 2000 PE to 100 PE when history becomes much better documented, where I shall attempt to divine fact from fiction regarding the Agarthan Wars and their aftermath. The third part shall cover the War of Heroes and challenge known dogma.
While to some this work will be deemed heretical, it is a historical documentation and objective analysis of what I have found. The War has been over for over a century, the Empire is secure, though it may not always be. It is only with an objective and true understanding of history may this Empire flourish and survive, and I can only hope my humble work provides readers with the wisdom to make that happen. Still, for securities sake, I have ensured that several copies will be made and hidden should this work be censured. Additionally, I shall take another long trip abroad when this book is released, if only to avoid more zealous critics.
Lucas already liked the book, as well as the author. While he did not like the savages' remark about Brigid, he knew bias would be unavoidable, especially in a book written by a Noble over eight hundred years ago. But even so, releasing a controversial book while running away to foreign soil? Not a bad way of doing things. Why stand and die if you can run and live.
"Ah, you have good taste young man." Tomas spoke. Lucas looked up to see the old librarian smiling at him. "Lord Noa was an excellent writer, and his observations and opinions of the War of Heroes would be considered sound today."
"How were they viewed at the time?" Lucas asked. He suspected the answer. Tomas chuckled.
"Oh, no less than two hundred priests demanded the Emperor cut off his fingers. In fact, the Archbishop was recorded as saying he best make his last voyage a long one." His expression turned sad. "They burnt nearly every copy afterwards. I imagine the original was one of his hidden works."
"And you're sure it's the real deal?"
"It matches enough of what is recorded in his heresy trial. They tried him in-absentia you see, he was in Sreng at the time. And he stayed there until the Archbishop allowed him to return, citing his advanced age."
"How magnanimous" Prometheus commented. "Still, ask if you can keep it. There's something in that book which caught my eye."
"What was it?"
"The Agarthan Wars. Remember the story Seteth told you?" He did, and he realized this book may contain information on the people who did… whatever it was they did to him. Or their ancestors at any rate.
"Can I hold on to this? For now, at least?" Lucas asked. The librarian smiled.
"I would like for you to keep. I fear most of these books shall be confiscated anyways." He said kindly.
"Can't you get in trouble for that?"
Tomas chuckled. "A benefit the elderly possess. We don't exactly have long lives to worry about." Tomas yawned. "I grow tired. I will get my assistants to go through these books later. Oh, hold a moment." He turned and entered his office. Lucas heard him rummaging through a desk before returning with a book sleeve. It read, "History of the Empire Volume 3". He handed it to Lucas. "Put this over the cover. An old librarians trick."
Lucas took the sleeve, slipping it over the book. However, he ran his thumb, and noticed a paper cut. Fearing he would damage the book; he drew his thumb away. Tomas reached into his pocket and drew a cloth, which he offered to him. "No need Tomas, it's just a papercut."
"Please, I insist young man." He continued to hold it out. He held it out for so long, Lucas became uncomfortable and accepted it. He dabbed it over his thumb, allowing the cloth to absorb some of the blood. He turned to throw out the cloth only for the librarian to stammer. "Ah, it was a gift from my sister. I must insist you return it; I will clean it later." Lucas returned it, weirded out by the old man. Then, he turned and returned to his office faster than he had ever seen a man with a cane move.
"Hmm" Prometheus grunted loudly. Before Lucas could ask, he was interrupted.
"Ah, Lucas! Look who I found!" Flayn called out. Lucas turned around and saw an energetic Flayn and awkward-looking Byleth walking towards him. Looks like his plan to welcome her back through the front gate didn't work out as intended.
"I'm back" Byleth smiled awkwardly. Lucas placed the book under his arm and walked over. He stood in front of Byleth, trying to figure out where to start. To tell about his recent developments with Prometheus. Or maybe he should ask if she was doing alright?
"Hug her you moron. How you got a woman like Nerys to like you I'll never know." Prometheus chided. While he was annoyed Prometheus was once again intervening in his love life, he knew he was right. He was good at relationships, or so he told himself.
"Welcome back By." She froze at the unexpected contact. She was never physical with her affections. Her affection was distant, beautiful, and somewhat cold, like the stars. But at this moment, she returned the hug.
"Hmm… Good to be back." She broke from the huge, a small blush adorned her cheeks. Flayn's small laugh caused them both to look at her.
"Oh, do not mind me. I am merely noting how… comfortable you are with one another" Byleth backed up slightly to break the hug. Seemed like public flirting was too much for her. Or it was when someone was teasing her about it.
"Oh, just wait until you start dating Flayn. As a big brother myself, I chased no less than three boyfriends and one girlfriend out of the house by the time my sisters were seventeen. And your brother has an army." Lucas teased the girl back. Rather than be offended, the girl laughed.
"Yes, I imagine he would. Still, perhaps we should go and visit Ser Jeralt. Byleth mentioned she wanted to talk to him earlier." Byleth had a complicated look on her face. It seemed like Lucas wasn't the only one who had things to talk about. While he liked Flayn, this conversation needed to be kept private.
"Actually Flayn, I think that might be a conversation for just the three of us." Lucas said, trying not to offend the girl. It didn't work, as she looked down.
"We want to ask my father permission to court openly." Byleth interjected suddenly. Flayn looked back up, her eyes wide.
"Oh my goodness! Of course, such things must be done in private. Forgive me for not realizing." It wasn't at all what he planned on doing, but Byleth's quick thinking did the trick. "Even so, perhaps you should bring a gift? And dress sharply! That's how it works in my novels anyhow."
"I'll let you know what happens later Flayn." Byleth said. The girl left, looking giddy, undoubtedly lost in fantasy.
Lucas smiled at Byleth. "Asking permission from Jeralt? When did we get so old fashion?"
Byleth let out her airy laugh. "Old fashion for your world maybe. Still, it worked. Good call Sothis."
"Well, you've got your angel on your shoulder, I have a sword wielding maniac on mine. Want to trade?" Lucas teased.
"Sword wielding?"
"Something that should wait till we're behind closed doors. Jeralt should be in his office, hopefully he isn't too drunk yet." Byleth looked confused. "Alois showed up and they were exchanging stories about daughters when I left. Prepare yourself for embarrassment." Byleth's expression returned to a neutral frown, but he could see a hint of apprehension.
"Let's go and find out how bad it is."
As far as a group of friends being out of their mind drunk, it wasn't bad. Byleth had seen far worse. Her father still had his clothes on for one. Alois had his arm around him as they swayed on the couch. They were singing a bawdy tune or were attempting to. They were badly out of tune and sync. She sighed. Looks like her father wouldn't be in any state to answer her questions.
"I think they've had enough." She stated.
"I'll see if I can get someone to bring Alois home." Lucas said to her, his tone as resigned as her own. While her father's drinking in general never bothered her, when he was stupidly drunk, he was loud. And Byleth did not enjoy loud things. He stuck his head out the door and whistled to a passing Knight. The knight's helmet exposed his mouth and Byleth could see his teeth grinding as he stepped into the doorway.
"What do you want newbie?" He asked Lucas annoyed. Lucas beckoned him inside and pointed at the two musicians with his thumb. The guard froze, before slumping. "One of those nights… Never seen Captain Alois this drunk before…"
"We don't know where he lives. Think you can find someone who does?" Lucas asked the knight. The knights looked out the window.
"Hmm, it's gotten dark. Probably best to let him sleep it off in the barracks. I'll take him there." The knight replied, his jaw relaxing. "And newbie? Don't whistle like I'm your fucking dog."
Lucas wasn't fazed by the threat but offered an apology. Byleth was annoyed at the knight, he was just trying to get his attention. The knight walked over and pulled Alois to his feet, before leading him out of the room. Alois waved at her as he passed by, though his gaze was unfocused.
"What a jackass." Byleth said as soon as the knight was out of earshot.
"I skipped ahead Byleth. Now Jeralt has me working as his assistant, his right-hand man effectively. If any other knight whistled at him, he wouldn't have thought anything of it. I gave him an excuse to get pissed off and he used it."
Byleth turned to their third man. He was face down on the arm of his chair. He was mumbling into the chair, but he seemed to be conscious. He looked up, only to go pale. "Sitri?" He asked. His face was familiar, she swore she had met him at some point. "Sitri, you're back! I knew the…" he stopped and blinked a few times. "Ah, Byleth, forgive me." Cardinal Aelfric, she finally realized.
She looked over to see a pitcher sitting nearby. She called out to Lucas who poured a glass for each of the men. He handed one to each, though it took a few attempts for Aelfric to grab it. Jeralt just waved it off, saying he was fine. He was always difficult when it was time to sober up. So Byleth took the glass from his hand and splashed the water over Jeralt's face. Her father did not yell, he merely blinked.
"You've had one too many father. It's time for bed." She said, ignoring Sothis's laughter.
"I'm good… I'm good. Just, need a glass of that water and I'll be…." Jeralt trailed off, before slumping over and closing his eyes. Snores became his new instrument, and Byleth reached over and grabbed a pillow for his head. When he seemed comfortable enough, she stepped back.
"Your just like your mother you know." Aelfric said from behind her. The man was still drunk, but his eyes seemed more focused. "She used to tuck me and the other younger children into bed."
"You knew my mother?" It was a forbidden topic with her father. She learned long ago to not ask him about her, and time had simply made her forget to ask. But now the hunger for answers had returned, with a decade's worth of interest. Lucas pulled up seats for them. She took it, sitting down next to him.
"I shouldn't talk about this. I fear drink has loosened my tongue."
"Please, I want to know about her. Father… it hurts him to talk about her." This man knew things about her mother. Lucas grabbed her hand, squeezing it slightly. It was the second romantic gesture he had made towards her tonight. She was caught off guard the first time but found herself liking it.
"I imagine it would be. Her loss was sudden." Aelfirc slurred. "We grew up here, your mother and me. We are… were orphans."
Byleth remembered what her father told Rhea at their first meeting. "Father said I was born after he left the knights. That's what he told Lady Rhea."
Aelfric scoffed. "I'm sure he did, and I am equally certain Rhea did not believe him. You are her spitting image. Her hair, her eyes, her beauty…" The drunk cardinal trailed off. "Please, Byleth. I am… very drunk. If you would be… if you w… visit me tomorrow, I shall…" The cardinal trailed off before leaning over. He too began to snore.
Lucas grabbed a blanket and pillow, and they moved the cardinal to another couch. Byleth paused as she took in the face of the Cardinal. He had an intelligent and lively face, but an unmistakable air of loneliness. A loneliness that seemed to lift when he mistook her for her mother. But that mistake had been her boon. She had a name. "Sitri…"
Lucas walked up to her, gently nudging in the direction of the door. The two occupants wouldn't wake till morning, it would be best to leave them here. She nodded and they made their way to her room once more.
"Your mother had a nice name Byleth." Lucas said as he sat down next to her on her bed. They sat a good length apart, neither close nor far.
"I've heard more about her in that one conversation than I have my whole life with father." Byleth countered. "I thought I grew up past that. I used to wonder why I didn't have a mommy like the village girls. A few used to tease me father picked me up on the side of the road." Byleth played with her hair. "I used to fantasize about having a mom, dressing me up or cooking dinner for me and father. I always imagined her with the same color hair as father oddly enough. Childish, I know."
Lucas licked his lips. "It's not childish to wonder what may have been. And it's not stupid to want to know where you came from. You're a fully grown woman, you deserve to know about your mom."
"I know. I guess I just got used to my father not talking about her. In the end… the silence became comfortable. And comforts are few for mercenaries." He disagreed but knew he didn't have a leg to stand on. He had only been a mercenary for a year, but it felt longer. What would twenty do to him? "What was yours like?"
"My mom? She was a lawyer. Her job was hard and demanded a lot of her time. She was fierce when it came to running the house though. It was hard for her when things didn't go her way. She was a bit of a control freak. Granted, she fought with my sisters, not me. I was dad's problem." Memories flowed, each painful and loving. He remembers when he was his child how his mother's stern blue eyes dyed blonde hair pierced through him when she came home in work mode. And how that look became loving when mom mode took over. He wondered what she would think of Byleth if they ever met? She loved Nerys, told him she was the best choice he had ever made. "Even when we argued, I knew she loved me. My sisters felt the same way, though they would never admit it."
"Father and I are the same. I know he loves me, I just… wanted a mom too." It was only human to want what just about everyone else has. Lucas scooted closer to her. The moon shone through her window, illuminating the room and her.
"Well, now you have someone who can tell you about her without hurting Jeralt. But I think you should ask him too. It's way past time."
"I could also ask Lady Rhea. Aelfric made it sound like they knew each other." The mysteries kept piling on.
"It's funny. I had a similar talk with Nerys about mothers on a night just like this. She and her mother didn't get along. When Nerys left home, she eventually cut contact. Told me that her mother was controlling and domineering, that she felt more like a pawn than a daughter. I think that's why she and my mom got along so well. Mom got a daughter that didn't give her grief." Cat and Izzy always had something going on, most of which caused a headache for their parents. Boyfriends, girlfriends, tattoos, skipping school, you name it they did it. Nerys was an adult woman who worked hard and didn't take grief from anyone. She and his mother were kindred spirits. Maybe that's why they bonded.
"I wish I could meet your family. I even wish I could have met Nerys." That made Lucas gives her an odd look. "You loved her. I do too. That's something we have in common. And your face lights up when you talk about her. How can I not be curious?"
Lucas put his hand over her own. "I feel the same way when I talk about you too. I loved her and always will. But that life is gone. I can wonder what may have been, but I know my future is here. With…" The last word went unsaid, Lucas couldn't find the resolve to finish that sentence. Typical of him, he always hesitated at the last step, just out of reach. It was Nerys that took that last step towards him.
Byleth leaned against him, closing her eyes. The two sat there, their ghostly companions mercifully silent. The talk about them could wait for morning. Now it was time to relax and to enjoy the night.
Seteth turned around feeling dirty. He had been walking late into the night when he saw the newest Professor and Knight making their way to the dormitory. Professor Byleth had a private room, and Seteth assumed the worst. He did not like the idea of the two 'celebrating' within the academy. Such illicit affairs were forbidden in its halls, though it did not stop the students from utilizing the town's local inn. There were many engagements made and broken at that Inn, so many that the faculty referred to it as 'The Altar'. His hearing as a Nabatean was exceptional, so he did not even have to place it against the door to overhear.
Instead, he witnessed a very private conversation. But something pricked his attention. Professor Byleth's mother lived in Garreg Mach and Rhea knew her? He wanted to give Rhea time, but Shez's power had made him wake up. He saw the signs, the writing on the walls. He was older than the Empire itself, he knew what was coming. Rhea had become a divisive figure. Wilhelm's empire a shadow of its former self. The Kingdom held together by spit and bandages. The Alliance gridlocked. The Church fragmented. And now the Agarthans were rearing their ugly heads. They were in the twilight of this age; a long night was near. He just hoped this time it didn't last as long as the War of Heroes did.
Authors note
Sorry for the late update, I was busy last month with a course I took. So, I decided to make an extra-long chapter to make up for it
Updated to remove mentions of Divine pulse. For new readers, I very foolishly made the divine pulse reveal in the last chapter which was a bad choice, and I removed it for a later reveal.
If I missed any, please point it out
In it's place, I put another scene from Lucas's life before Fodlan.
And all these NPC side characters who I'm naming and giving some personality? You don't have to remember them; they may show up later in the story to play a role. Mostly because I wanted to humanize some of them. I can't find it but there was a video where nameless bandits and soldiers had death quotes and music like the major characters. It really changed the tone of the game
