Chapter 17 – Prelude to Mutiny

13th of the Garland Moon, 1180

Seteth studied the old knight. Jeralt Reus Eisner is a man that served the Knights of Seiros for three centuries. A man whose character was above board, or so Rhea claimed. The man was still sleeping at his desk, a post he had not left since the previous day. The two had developed a good working relationship these past few weeks. Their meetings mostly consisted of catching Jeralt up to speed on the status of Fodlan and the Knights. Jeralt seemed to be aware of most issues that plagued Fodlan, even those not known to the public. Which meant that he had not been as reclusive as he claimed.

After Jeralt's reinstatement, Seteth reached out to various contacts to compile a dossier of the Blade Breaker mercenaries. They took on small jobs in the early years, mostly caravan and bodyguard work. Then, after thirteen years, presumably when Byleth joined, they began taking larger jobs, earning fame and fortune. Including a job which had become of great importance.

Seteth began to shake the sleeping man. Jeralt grunted yet did not wake. "It seems drastic steps are necessary." Seteth reached inside his crest stone, calling upon the mana compressed within. The first step of any spell was complete, now all he had to do was convert that energy into a desired effect. Not that he was planning on it. Any fighter worth a damn developed the ability to sense an enemy's mana gathering before the spell was even cast. It was like the drop of pressure before the storm approached, even animals could sense something was coming.

Jeralt's eyes shot open. He moved faster than any human could hope to do, shooting up to his feet, fist already swinging. All it took was a fraction of a second for Jeralt to go from sleeping soundly to punching Seteth. If Seteth was an ordinary human, his fist would have shattered the skull. Perhaps blow his head clean off. But Seteth was not. He casually raised his hand, catching the fist. Seteth grunted as he stepped backwards, surprised by the force.

Jeralt pulled back his fist before grasping at empty air for his sword which was not there. Seteth kept the hand raised, ready for another blow. Jeralt stared at him with the eyes of a predator, hungry and ready to fight. After a few blinks, that killing instinct faded, as he relaxed his posture, a frown coming to his face. "What was that for?"

"You would not wake up. I also knew you possessed a Major Crest of Seiros, so I wanted to see just how powerful you were."

"You mean you wanted to figure out how much blood Rhea gave me."

Seteth nodded. "It must have been a considerable amount." He began to roll his wrist, relieving himself of discomfort. "And I wanted to see how fast you could get back into action."

"Don't worry, this old man hasn't gone senile yet." Jeralt stared at him suspiciously. "What's happened?"

Seteth breathed deeply. "What do you know about Lord Lonato Gaspard?"

Jeralt took a moment to close his eyes. "Graduate of the Officers academy. Can't say I remember him though. Did a job for him a few months back, some Western Church nutcase was kidnapping members of the Central Church to burn for heresy. We stayed for a feast, and we talked."

"What about? Was there anything specific?"

Jeralt hummed. "Mostly about his son, the adopted one Ashe." His eyes opened, realization setting in. "The older one was executed after Duscur right?"

Seteth nodded. "And now Lonato has chosen to rebel. He's assembled a militia of civilians and household guards. We also have reports of mages we suspect to be part of the Western Church."

"I'm surprised the Western Church survived the fallout of that incident."

"They framed that episode as an act of madmen and zealots. We were waiting for a report from Lonato before imposing sanctions, but he stonewalled us for months. Now we know his true allegiance. He was working with them all along."

Jeralt looked away. Lonato was a popular lord, a rarity in Fodlan. He was a devout follower of the faith and chivalrous. His reputation survived his son's execution, though perhaps it was a testament how divisive the Church had become. Jeralt wished they hadn't taken that job now. It would make what came next that much worse. For all her virtues, Rhea was unforgiving to those who opposed the Church.

"I'm not sure about that. Why hire mercenaries to save members of the Central Church?"

"We are not the 'Central' Church Jeralt. We are the Church of Seiros. I understand you have been gone, but you must not refer to us as that, even in private." Jeralt held back a scoff. It seems he did not miss the politicking.

"Sure." He said dismissively. Seteth sighed and sat down.

"As for Father Marvin? Perhaps Lonato knew his actions would bring scrutiny. Marvin's actions may have exposed the plot before they were ready." Jerlat nodded, seeing the logic. "Still, we must focus on suppressing this rebellion."

"What do we know about their strength?"

"The bulk of their numbers consist of peasants from Gaspard territory. His household guards and knights make up the little Calvary they possess. And our reports indicate few mages, mostly from the Western Church." Jeralt did the math.

"The Knights of Seiros aren't much of a standing army; we're a specialized force. Still, if it's mostly peasants, that won't matter. Even outnumbered, superior tactics and equipment would make quick work of the infantry. I saw Lonato's household guards in action, they were disciplined, but nothing to write home about." He sighed. "He's leading all those people to a damn slaughter." Seteth grimaced.

"Indeed. I have no doubt most of his peasants have been forced into this position. Perhaps we could convince a number to defect with promises of pardons" Seteth proposed. Most lose their nerve before the first battle and would take any means of escape. But Jeralt's doubtful look dashed his hopes.

"I've seen peasants with shit lords before. His people looked happy. If they are following him willingly, resistance will be fierce. A true believer will fight harder than a reluctant farm hand."

Seteth grimaced. "Then it will be terrible. I do not like the idea any more than you Jeralt." He sighed. "What would you propose?"

"Go with the pardons anyway. Send spies behind enemy lines and spread rumors. Hell, I'd even say Rhea herself should offer one publicly. It might be enough to convince a few to leave. But after the battle ends, we both know there will be no quarter for the survivors."

Seteth slumped back into his seat. He had the appearance of a man in his early thirties. He was far older than that and in moments like this, he felt his age. He remembered something Maucil told him.

"We are the Children of the Goddess Chichol. We are greater than humanity. We do not age, we are powerful, and heirs of the world." The elder had told him, his face proud and strong. "Humanity must be reined in from time to time.: It was a school of thinking that dominated Zanado after Sothis's slumber began. And perhaps before as well. While they referred to each other as brothers, they were not of the same gernation. Since they were after all Children of the Goddess, they were siblings no matter the generation or how far removed. And as one of the eldest Nabateans, he acted as Seteth's teacher alongside Indech.

Despite being brothers of the same generations, the two were on opposite ends when it came to humanity. "We are meant to guide humanity Chichol. We should not control or dictate their lives but should as the guardrails to prevent self-destruction." He remembered the elder's kind yet tired smile. "We are not greater than humanity. Stronger and longer lived, but not greater."

There was a benefit of Maucil's thinking, though it was cynical. If he saw humans less as equals and more like sheep in need of a shepherd, perhaps he would not let this rebellion bother him. But he couldn't. His wife was human, and she was a greater person than he ever was. He prayed for some to see reason and take the pardon.

"Very well Jeralt. We will announce his rebellion later today with promises of pardons for those who leave now. We can expect little assistance from the Kingdom, but perhaps the Regent can send some aid."

"… What has Rhea said about this?"

"I have not spoken to her yet. I thought we should discuss a strategy before we bring it to her attention."

Jeralt sighed. "What about the kid, Ashe?"

"I have sent for him and Prince Dimitri. We shall explain the situation to them. Ashe is a student at the Officers academy, we shall not target him, less we injure the Academy's reputation."

Jeralt fixed a knowing look. "I take it by the fact he's still at the Academy he didn't know about any of this?"

Seteth nodded. "Either Lonato cares not if he lives or dies, or he knew that he was safest by Prince Dimitri's side. This reeks of desperation and futility Jeralt, he has little chance of success. I am sorry this is the first major excursion you must lead."

Jeratl's expression was complicated. "Compared to my long life, my stint as a mercenary was more of an interlude. This is nothing new, I've just been out of the game for a bit."

"Then let us go and report to Rhea. I would prefer we present our idea together." Seteth turned to leave, only for Jeralt to call out. Seteth turned, confused. He moved closer and whispered in his ear.

"You don't have to answer. But I gotta ask, which of Rhea's four old friends are you?" Seteth froze. Since coming out of hiding, he had been meticulous in crafting his cover story. His identity as Seteth was something he embraced for over a decade. It was so complete, he no longer referred to himself as Chichol within his own mind. He breathed. Jeralt already knew his nature, probably from their first meeting. He didn't like saying his true name, even in absolute privacy. He knew his fear of discovery bordered on irrationality.

He came up with an idea as a neutral look took root. "The father."Jeralt looked puzzled, before he silently ah'd. Seteth gave a blank look to Jeralt. "Join me in the Archbishops Chambers once you are ready. Afterwards, one of us needs to tell Dimitri and Ashe." Seteth gave a bow to the knight, which was returned.


Edelgard enjoyed a lot about Garreg Mach. She loved the Officers Academy, where she could behave as a student, equal to her fellows. Or as equal as an Imperial Princess could be. She received special treatment, only a fool would think otherwise. But she was closer to others in a way not possible in Enbarr.

She did not have courtiers and advisors doing their best to push away any who behaved improperly in hopes of replacing them. She could speak freely without being introduced by her many, many titles. And she could bond with her peers without any of their parents looming over them.

Her position put her so high above others, interactions tended to be cold and insincere. She felt disconnected from the world and those around her in Enbarr. True, the sights are beautiful from top of a tower, but it was a lonley beauty. She could not go to the market, she could not dine in a tavern, nor could she go shopping with her friends. And then there was the weight of responsibility.

"Lady Edelgard?" Hubert asked, a touch of concern in his voice.

"I'm fine Hubert. Please continue. What have you heard about Cardinal?" It was a codename for a friend and supporter of hers who went missing last year. She had ordered Hubert to find her, but Those Who Sliter in the Dark proved elusive.

"I fear the Cardinal is still caged, but I have a promising lead." Edelgard motioned him to go on. "I believe she is in a fortress on the border of Gaspard and Rowe territory."

"You mean where Lonato is amassing his forces?"

Hubert nodded. "Indeed. I doubt it is a coincidence, Lady Edelgard. Lord Arundel is supporting his revolt. We could have seized it last month had we the freedom." He looked frustrated. "If only the plan had worked, we would be able to operate as we saw fit." Edelgard agreed.

Her plan to install their agent as the Black Eagles professor had gone awry. Jeritza was supposed to become the new professor and allow for breathing room from both the Church and their 'overseer' Solon. The original professor had a reputation for whoring, so she ordered Huber to procure blackmail to force him into an early retirement. What Hubert found was corruption that felt typical in the Empire these days.

Barnabas enjoyed strangling prostitutes during coitus. Apparently, had killed at least two prostitutes when in Enbarr. The proprietor of the brothel was paid a hefty sum to look the other way. But that coin never reached the other girls who knew he murdered their friend. Safe to say, elimination became palatable and preferable after that revelation.

"What's done is done. Jeritza can still be used in other ways Hubert. While I do not relish the idea of him hurting the Professor, he would be an excellent distraction."

His weapons and armor may belong to Those who Sliver in the Dark, but his loyalty lied with her. She had found Emile in the ashes of his old life, scarred and twisted. While she had emerged from her own ordeals with the resolve to usher a new age, Emile was cursed with a bloodlust which overcame him at times. Her physicians claimed it was a psychological response to the lifetime of abuse at the hands of his father. His mind fragmented itself to prevent his core sense of self from damage. These fragments were lost to madness, grief, and anger.

When she took him into her service, he made her promise to unleash his urges, what he called the Death Knight, upon those deserving of punishment. The only thing he asked of her was that when her war was done, he would be locked away, to ensure he never take an innocent life.

He was one of countless who suffered from the status quo of Fodlan. One of countless people she promised to bring a new age of prosperity and freedom to.

"I have an idea. But it carries a risk of alienating Lord Arundel." Hubert said. Edelgard placed her hand on her hip and motioned for him to continue. "I propose that we inform the Archbishop of an abandoned Fortress in Rowe territory that is seeing unusual activity. With news of Lonato's rebellion, it is possible for him to have discovered it and used it as a base of operations."

"Is it being used by Lonato as well?"

"I believe so. I have few contacts within Arundel's group, but whispers have a means of escaping even the tightest of lips. Cornelia has been moving supplies to that fortress under various pseudonyms and third parties." Edelgard liked what she heard. They had been trying to pin down her location for the past year. Every time they got close, she was moved.

"We must think of a good story for how we know of this fortress. Let alone that Lonato may be using it."

"I already have an idea. You don't have to say Lonato is using it. Raise the possibility, and report that our agents on the border have seen suspicious troop movement near it."

Edelgard got into character, a hint of mischief in her eye. She turned her nose up, in an imitation of Rhea. "Edelgard, why do you have spies on the border reporting troop movement in the Kingdom? Should we be concerned about an invasion? Or perhaps are you spying on the Church as well?" Hubert opened his mouth to retort but stopped. He saw her point.

"How about, advisors in Enbarr searched for abandoned fortresses or military in our records. We found records of an unused fortress on the border. Perhaps it is being used to house his militia before they march?" Edelgard found this explanation more plausible. "And besides Lady Edelgard, everyone has spies. Including the Church."

She knew that but found challenging Hubert necessary for keeping their minds sharp. "I understand that Hubert, but we must not tip the Church off to our plans. Have there been any whispers from Lord Arundel?"

Hubert grinned. "None whatsoever. They believe they have hidden her well. But they have not gotten past my intelligence network. Hopefully she can point the finger at Solon when we rescue her. If we remove him, that frees us from prying eyes. Though we still need their strength. For now."

Edelgard hummed. "We must take care to keep their lot at arm's length. That way, when all is done, we can cut them out like the caner they are." Hubert smiled, agreeing with her assessment.


They would have to wait a few days, pretending that they heard of the rebellion at the same time as everyone else. Until then, she had to act like a normal student, a role she knew she could not play forever. No matter how much she wished otherwise.

Shez sat in a corner pew of the library which was isolated and quiet. He was currently reading a tome about historic battles and tactics. While it was dry, he found nuggets of useful information from time to time. While he was a mercenary, he never had to do this kind of studying. His mother had tried to get him to sit still and pay attention to magical theory when he was younger, but he wanted to go outside and play with the other children. She got so fed up one day that she tied him to the chair until he could pass one of her exams.

His first week of class had flown by. He had to admit, despite being one of two commoners in the Black Eagles, the other students were nice to him. Caspar was a kindred spirit when it came to training, though some of his methods baffled Shez.

Dorothea, while not near his skill with a sword was nice to be around. He suspected she felt that way because he was also a commander, not that he agreed. She had risen to the Diva of an Opera and rubbed elbows with nobles already. Shez didn't even have that, just a few orders barked at him on jobs.

Petra was a fellow sword wielder, so they mostly talked shop and sparred, whereas Lindhardt and Bernadetta mostly did their own thing. Fhrdinant was nice, but a bit too much. He kept going on and on about his nobility, though he didn't try to put Shez down for being a commoner. Still made for awkward conversations though.

This leaves to the last two members of the Black Eagles, Edelgard and Hubert. He had never been thanked and threatened in the same breath until he met Hubert. The man looked like a storybook villain, but Shez found him helpful. They sat next to each other in class, so he occasionally asked for help. Hubert never got angry and even recommended his current book to help him catch up. He hadn't interacted with Edelgard save for his introduction to the class. Still, she had an air about her that he liked.

"I admit I didn't think you'd be able to talk with any of them without putting your foot in your mouth." Arval said. Shez rolled his eyes. He wasn't that bad. "Oh really? How about when you asked Knight what kind of 'jobs' he's been through? He yelled that he didn't do jobs like lowly mercenary like you, he had duties. Or how about that time you asked the nun why everyone was gathering on Sunday in the Cathedral?"

"I never was one for Church Arval. Neither was mom. And I was just trying to make small talk with that Knight, I wasn't trying to imply anything." He defended.

Arval shook his head. "We both know you are far out of your depth when dealing with nobility. Byleth has her shield as being a professor, but you are their peer. Or rather, their inferior."

Shez knew that. Even Dorothea could see he was a fish out of water. When he made small talk with a student he didn't know, it felt like a war of words. And in that fight, he was armed with the social equivalent of a spoon. It was like these nobles spoke a different language. And don't get him started when he tried to high five Ferdinand.

"Perhaps you should ask one of your peers for help? Dorothea showed the most patience, and she was likely in your shoes once."

"Ah, Shez." A familiar voice called out. He looked up from his book. It was the Eagle he had least experience with.

"Hey, what's up Edelgard?" Edelgard pursed her lips and looked up slightly. Shez was confused, before he realized that "what's up" wasn't something a noble would use. "I mean, uh, how are you?"

Edelgard looked back down, a quizzical look on her face. "I am well Shez. I take it 'what's up' is a greeting used by mercenaries?" Shez was starting to feel a little embarrassed.

"I've been using it for as long as I can remember. Probably more a commoner thing than a merc thing." Edelgard looked a little embarrassed.

"I see… Forgive me." It made Shez wonder how Edelgard would do in a tavern. Would she be just as lost as he was here?

"Oh, it's fine. It's funny, I was just thinking it feels like nobility and commoners speak different languages sometimes." Shez tried to joke, but Edelgard didn't laugh. Instead, consternation took root as she seemed to ponder what he just said.

"A rather accurate description of the divide I suppose. Perhaps one of the reasons nobility and commoners are so far apart is because of speech." She muttered.

"I wouldn't say that's the only reason." Shez amended. Edeglard focused on him.

"Did you know I have never gone shopping myself until Dorothea took me?" Shez shook his head. "I understand why a commoner knows so little of my life, but I am struck by how little I know of theirs. I must admit, I found myself out of depth. Even greetings are different than what I'm used to." At this Shez laughed. Edelgard glared. "Is something funny."

"N-no, I promise I'm not laughing at you. That's just how I feel here at the Officers Academy." Edelgard's frown turned into surprise.

"I did not think you felt that way. You seemed to be adjusting well."

"Let's just say I have a healthy respect for Dorothea. She makes it look so easy, like she's been a blueblood her whole life."

Edelgard put her hand under her chin, in what Shez dubbed her thinking pose. "Then perhaps we should learn from one another. I propose a trade." Shez stood up, intrigued. "I wish to understand commoners and my people better. You wish to better interact with the nobility of the monastery. We are here at this academy to learn, are we not? Why not learn from eachother?"

Shez balked. "You want to learn about commoners from me? What about Dorothea?"

Edelgard smiled. "While she is a commoner, her life has been altogether different from yours. She may have grown up in the slums of Enbarr, but you grew up on the frontier and have seen more of Fodlan than she has."

Shez couldn't argue with that. While Dorothea had been nice, he still felt like she was a noble. One of the good ones at least.

"You should take the deal. She's thrown you a lifeline. And having a good personal relationship with the future Empress is nothing to sneeze at." Arval argued. Shez agreed, maybe this was what he needed. And not just with understanding nobility.

Before he met Arval, he felt directionless. His goals were broad and without a discernable target. Sure, he used Byleth as a goal, but he didn't have the same drive to get better like he used to. When he wanted to get out of his hometown, he trained day and night for when an opportunity came. When Berling moved through, she recognized his desperation and potential and took a chance on him. Maybe Edelgard could help him find that motivation again?

Edelgard cleared her throat, making Shez blush. He had gotten lost in thought again. He needed to not get distracted by Arval like that, otherwise people might think he was crazy! "Okay Edelgard, you have yourself a deal." She stuck her hand out, and Shez took it.


Byleth and Lucas stepped through the basement, not sure which door they were looking for. The message had told them to find the meeting room within the Abbey, though the Abbey was vast. Classes were over for the day and no training sessions were scheduled. The free time had opened her schedule for what was to be a long meeting. The meeting was timed perfectly, though the man had planned it that way.

"We should ask someone where he is." Byleth said. Lucas stopped walking.

"The message said to come alone By. I don't think he even wanted me here, let alone random guards know about this meeting." Lucas argued.

"He's a cardinal, not a spymaster Lucas."

Lucas looked amused. "My old world's history tells me not to underestimate the power of the clergy. Some of the most powerful and dangerous people in my history were religious leaders. And who's to say he can't be both?"

A laugh caused them both to spin in the direction of a dark corridor. The corridor was dark, the cobwebs telling them it was seldom used or cleaned. A young effeminate figure with eyeshadow emerged, his lilac hair spilling over a white shoulder cape like the one's the class leaders wore.

"Aelfric has secrets, but he's no spymaster. And your friend is right, you were told to come alone." The unnamed figure said. He had a sword on his hip, his eyes hungry like a wolf. He kept his hands clear of the blade, crossing them over his chest. "Why should this meeting happen at all now?"

Byleth looked over the man. He was in his late teens, with an air of menace and danger. Though that may have had to do with the fact she and Lucas didn't have their swords. She saw Lucas moving in the corner of her eye, but she did not take her eyes off the man. "No one behind us, don't think it's an ambush." He told her.

The lilac haired man laughed again. "Of course it's not. If I wanted you two dead, you'd already be gurgling blood. Still, you didn't follow the simplest instruction." His grin widened. "Smart. I wouldn't have come alone either. Need deduct points for coming unarmed though, Professor." He mocked. The dagger on her belt said otherwise, same for Lucas's knife hidden under his jacket. They would be enough.

A tired sigh emerged from behind the man. "Yuri, please. This young man is a friend of hers, I am in no danger." Aelfric came out of the shadows, a friendly smile trying to disperse the tension. "I apologize for his hostility. He is quite protective of me."

Byleth kept her attention on Yuri, who scoffed. "Whatever. I'll be outside if you need me." He pushed his back against a wall, his arms crossed.

"I apologize for the confusion, but you weren't meant to find the meeting room. It is meant to be hidden after all. I just needed you to find this place." Aelfric turned his attention to a brick wall. He pushed a brick that was eye level, which slid backwards. Then another, and another. Finally, he pushed on one which did not budge. "This one… always sticks" He pushed with his body weight, until the brick moved. Nothing happened, prompting the Cardinal to sigh before he slapped his palm over it. A loud crunch sounded, before a hidden door of bricks opened slightly ajar.

The cardinal walked inside first, sliding his body through the tight corridor. Byleth followed, dumbfounded by the secret passage. Inside was an ornate round stone table, the sigil of the Empire and Church carved at two ends, seating two large ornate stone chairs that looked as if they had been carved from the foundations. There were two more thrones, though these were wooden, bearing the sigils of the Kingdom and Alliance. Lucas grunted as he came through the entrance, whistling when he saw the room.

"My word…" Even Sothis was taken aback by the room. Her shock must have shown because Aelfric began to chuckle.

"One can feel the importance of this room. Tell me, if I told you some of the most important decisions ever made in Fodlan were made right here, would you believe me?" He asked.

Byleth cocked her head. "What do you mean?"

Aelfric circled the table, running his hand across the smooth stone. "This room is only known to high-ranking members of the Church." He looked up, his smile mischievous. "The negotiations which formed the Kindgom. The final terms of the Alliances founding. The backroom deals and secret meetings between Kings and Emperors whose outcomes echo for centuries..."

Byleth's mouth opened in shock. "Is your mother such an important topic? Why the cloak and dagger" Sothis questioned.

Aelfric let his dramatic statement hang, before smiling. "I brought you here because as Sitri's daughter, I trust you. And a matter I hold as dear to my heart as your mother should be discussed in a place of security." He turned to the open door. "Yuri, this discussion does not concern you. You may return to Abyss."

"Sure, sure, just don't get jumped on your way down. Again." Yuri called out. The door began to close, leading the Knight and Professor to panic.

"Not to worry, we can open the door here as well." He dragged a plain wooden chair from a corner of the room and took a seat. Byleth took one as well, not bothering with the thrones. Lucas lacked her self-control and sat down on the stone throne with the Church sigil. She shot him a look, which he withered under and took a normal chair next to her. "You have him rather domesticated. While he rarely annoyed her, Sitri could silence your father with a single look."

Byleth smiled, trying to picture it. But where her mother's face should be, was a blank canvas. Sometimes she substituted her own face, perhaps a bit older. "Why the secrecy? Is my mother a forbidden topic around the monastery?"

"Somewhat. You see Byleth, Sitri's death was sudden. She was known and beloved throughout the monastery in her time. There were few that did not feel her passing. And days later, another tragedy occurred, leading to your father abandoning his post and disappearing. Those were bleak days, with sorrow falling like rain."

Lucas interrupted. "When did she die Aelfric?" She suspected the answer.

Aelfric's looked at her with pity. "Please, do not blame yourself. I know that Sitri loved you from the moment you came into the world to the moment she left it."

"Which wasn't long, was it?" Her tone was dull and blank. She regretted saying that. But it was the truth. Her mother died bringing her into this world.

"She was sick long before she was pregnant with you Byleth." Aelfric explained. "We were orphans you see. She was like a sister to me. A girl so full of life despite the time she was confined to her bed. We read stories of adventure and heroes through the night. I remember scouring the library when she was bound to her bed to find a new story she hadn't heard before."

It didn't sound like Byleth at all. She liked her books, but she also liked being outdoors and training. She couldn't imagine being confined to a bed. "How old was she? When she died?"

"She was your age." He spoke. It just made her feel even worse. Her mother had just entered adulthood, it should have been full of happiness with her father. "She had a lovely smile Byleth." It felt like another stab to the gut. She couldn't smile easily, and she didn't think hers was lovely. Her father lost a woman like that too early for a woman that couldn't smile easily and whose heart wasn't right. What a trade…

Aelfric seemed to realize his words were having the opposite effect on her. Byleth rested her elbows on the table, placing her forehead against crossed hands. "Why did father keep quiet about her for all these years?" She asked. "Did he think I'd blame myself? That he had to lose the woman he loved in exchange for a child that couldn't cry and whose heart couldn't beat?" An odd sensation bloomed in her chest. Not the thumping of a heart, more of an intense pulse.

Aelfric, to his credit, did not flinch at her words. Instead, he rose from his chair and stood in front of her. He placed both hands on her shoulders, looking her dead in the eye. "Never, ever think that again dear child. Could a man that hates you raise you for twenty years? You are not the tragic result of a lost love. You are her living legacy, the proof of the life she lived. Her final gift to the world." Lucas also moved closer, placing a hand on her leg. He had a supportive smile, though he remained silent. None were needed.

Aelfric paused. "Sitri was sick her whole life. She knew pregnancy would be a terrible risk, but she insisted. She had her reasons for wanting to take that risk." Byleth waited, but Aelfric said nothing. Byleth was about to ask why her mother wanted her despite the dangers. "But that is not my story to tell. I fear I have said enough as is."

"He's telling you to ask your father, child." Sothis said.

"Is there anything else about Sitri?" Lucas asked. "Anyone at the monastery that knew her?"

"Hmm, it has been two decades. Most of the older knights knew of her, though only Jeralt's entourage were close to her. Alois was a role model for many of us, an orphan that became the squire of the Blade Breaker. He and Sitri knew each other well."

Byleth nodded, making a note to ask him later. "Anyone else?"

Aelfric's brow twitched, his face going blank. "Archbishop Rhea. She often takes care of and spends time with the Orphans of Garreg Mach, us included. She and Sitri were… close."

"It sounds complicated." Lucas pointed out. Byleth had noticed his reluctance.

"Just old gossip Lucas. Ask Jeralt about it, he will explain. I have said more than he would have liked me to." He rose from his chair. "I know I have given you a lot to think about. But not to worry, you will… find closure soon." Byleth rose from her chair, standing up next to the man. She took a moment, then decided to do what felt natural.

Byleth embraced him, wrapping her arms around him. "Thank you. I…. could tell it wasn't easy for you either. Thank you for sharing them with me." Aelfric froze, before returning the hug.

"Not at all child." Byleth ended the hug, stepping backwards. The man seemed brighter in this dark meeting room. "Should you require anything at all, ask around the monastery. If there is an emergency, look for a place called Abyss and ask for Yuri. He should how find me."

Aelfric opened the hidden door, allowing the party to exit the way they came. As they said their goodbyes, Byleth realized something. "Aelfric?" The cardinal turned. "You said Alois was already my fathers squire?" Aelfric nodded, looking somewhat confused. "How old is my father at the time?" She knew her father was older, but she was curious what the age gap between them. Aelfric laughed nervously.

"Now that, is something to ask Jeralt."

"Why this room though Alefirc? It's not like you told us Sitri was the secret Empress or anything."

"A man can't show off for his neice?" Aelfric quipped. "Good day, Byleth" And the cardinal turned, avoiding the question of her father's age.

Lucas got close to her. "Think you mom liked them older?" He whispered. Byleth snorted.

"Maybe it's genetic. You are older than me." She countered.

Lucas rolled his eyes. "I'm three years older than you Byleth. What a scandal." Byleth laughed. "Am I making you feel better?"

She shook her head. "Not really, but thanks for trying. At least I have a name to look for."

"You should have asked if there was a grave." Sothis added. "If she passed away in the monastery, perhaps there is a tombstone."

"Good point." Byleth responded. "Sothis said we should ask Father about a tombstone. She might be buried here."

"Sounds like a plan. Want to go now?" Byleth nodded, and the two made their way to Jeralt's office. "I wish there was I way I could hear Sothis too. It would save us from having to repeat everything they tell us." On that she agreed.

On the way they passed knights, students, and other faculty members, each offering a nod or greeting. That took some getting used to. As a mercenary, she was avoided by normal people for her career and her fellow mercenaries for her weirdness. Now she was a professor at one of the most important institutions in Fodlan. It also made her worry about how Lucas and Shez were fitting in.

While Shez wasn't outright shunned, he was distant from the others. He was a commoner, and nearly every member of the Black Eagles wasn't. She didn't think the other eagles did it on purpose, they just didn't know him well enough yet. Perhaps she should speak to Edelgard about it? She respected Byleth for her skills and never made an ill comment about her background. She even spoke about how her different world view was invaluable to her.

Lucas was another story. She couldn't help but notice that most knights didn't want to train with him. She had only seen her father, Alois, and some of those knights from his initiation. He sat with her most days in the dining hall, with only those three knights joining him on occasion. Yet she had never bothered to ask. Perhaps it was time to fix that? She could feel Sothis's scolding coming, so she cut her off.

"How are things in the Knights of Seiros?" She asked.

"It's been mostly paperwork and training so far. Waymar has been showing me the ropes and teaching me the chain of command, though Jeralt is still my immediate superior. Waymar's short tempered, but reliable and nice once you get on his good side." He pursed his lips. "It's normal for there to be tension and awkwardness with newbies. I bet in a mission or two, it'll go away. It was the same with you lot."

She agreed, but the mercenaries weren't outright disgusted with him like some of the knights. He suddenly looked annoyed, his eyes resting next to her. They had both learned to recognize when the other was having a conversation with their ethereal companion.

According to Lucas, Prometheus liked to walk alongside him when they were talking. The opposite of Sothis who prefered to lounge on her throne. "Hey! Are you implying I'm lazy?" She ignored Sothis.

"What did Prometheus say?"

"… He just reminded me I'm an outsider and a heretic. He told me not to get my hopes up."

"Perhaps you would both benefit from researching the institution you are working for?" Sothis suggested. "It could help him to better fit in if he understands their ways. And you are an educator now. It would benefit you to understand one of the most influential parts of Fodlan's culture."

Byleth hummed, seeing her point. She explains Sothis idea to Lucas, who began to nod. "Not a bad idea. Thank you Sothis." Byleth felt her perk up and smiled haughtily at the compliment. The two entered the second-floor offices, before a voice called out.

"Ah, Professor! Ser Lucas! Might have trouble you for a moment?" Hanneman called out. Byleth's fellow professor was a tall man in his early fifties who fit the image of a scholar. Older, smartly dressed, and eager to talk your ear off. He and Manuela both gave her different yet equally helpful advice when it came to teaching, though his lesson material was dry and rigid. Still, she appreciated the older man. "I've been meaning to ask you two, how familiar are you with Crests?"


Lucas sat down next to Byleth, as the older man shot off questions like a machine gun. It all started when he asked her to place her hand over a circle. He explained that the device detected and depicted the crests of the subject. Hanneman explained that Byleth's inhuman strength and reactiontime could be explained due to a crest. To their astonishment, not only was there a crest, but one he claimed to have never seen before.

"It does not match the Crest of the Saints, the Elites, or the lost Apostles! How marvelous!" He exclaimed. "Tell me, do you have any information regarding your family tree? I am aware of your Father poses a Major Crest of Seiros, but did his parents also possess one?"

Byleth shook her head. "I've never met any of my relatives other than my father. He's never talked about them." The Scholar took the moment to calm himself.

"Forgive me for my… eagerness. But I have had the pleasure of studying nearly every known Crest found in Fodlan, the prospect of an entirely new one is, well, exciting!"

Lucas laughed. Hanneman turned to look at him. "I'm sorry Professor, your enthusiasm is… infectious."

"I thank you for not saying childish. But even so, the idea of a new crest makes me feel twenty years younger." He turned back to Byleth. "Forgive me, I am talking like you have agreed to be a test subject already. If you are uncomfortable, I shall not force you." There was something in his expression, like he had bitten a lemon. Lucas sensed a story, but he didn't want to push the older man.

"What would you need?" Byleth asked.

"A vial of blood for one. I want to better map and document the Crest. Otherwise, if you could ask your father for information regarding your family tree, I may be able to track the unknown Crest through the maternal or paternal lines."

"I have a question about Crests." Lucas interjected. "Can a new crest form from two parents having different Crests? Like a sudden mutation?"

Hanneman sat down at his desk, brushing his mustache. "I admit that possibility has crossed my mind. Indeed, other scholars and nobles have hypothesized the appearance of a new crest. Most families try to keep Crest Bloodlines isolated from one another. The few cases of differing crests repeatedly interbred have resulted in no discernable pattern."

Lucas was intruged. "So, nobles have tried to…" He tried to think of a delicate way to say inbreed. Images of the Hapsburg chin and other birth defects that plagued European monarchies came to mind.

"Keep the bloodline pure? You need not be delicate; it is a common practice." Hanneman finished unoffended. "One the Church of Seiros and I vehemently oppose. The evidence I have gathered over my career suggests such methods do not work. For example, a family from the Kingdom had three siblings that possessed the Crest of Charon, the Crest of Indech, and the third with none. The children possessing a crest of Charon's descendants did not manifest the Crest of Indech, and vice versa. Whereas the child of the crestless daughter developed a Major Crest of Charon. There have been other attempts to produce a child with two crests or miraculously create a brand new one. All have failed."

Lucas pondered the implications. While it was hardly his area of study, he knew the basics of genetics. "In that case, would it be a recessive or dominant gene?" Dominant wouldn't make any sense, otherwise Crests wouldn't be as rare. But he did say that interbreeding made no discernible difference on a person's chances of getting a crest, so that went out. Maybe it was some magical factor?

Hanneman raised a brow. "A gene?" Lucas closed his mouth. Stupid, he chided himself. Jeralt had warned him not to talk about his world, and now he was bringing science into a secular middle-age religious institution. Lucas didn't want Hanneman telling the Church he was spreading heretical ideas. He had no desire to test how far Jeralt's protection went.

"It's nothing, ignore me." Hanneman looked confused, before he rose and closed his office door. He moved his hand, and Lucas felt a wave of mana in the air.

"Maso" Prometheus corrected. Alright, maso in the air. "Better."

"I just recalled you are not from Fodlan originally. One of the problems with Fodlan's isolationism, is that academic achievements and developments in the outside world do not reach our intellectual circles." Hannaman sat back down. "So, rest assured, I can keep a secret, even from the Church. While Archbishop Rhea allows my work, I do not allow her to influence my findings."

Lucas chewed his lip. "I want to trust you Hanneman, but not right now. I'm sorry." It was too much of a risk, not when he knew so little about the Crest scholar. He could be genuine, the Fodlan equivalent of Galileo. Or not.

Hanneman's shoulders drooped as the older man deflated. "Yes, I understand your reluctance. Still, before you go, perhaps you should also test yourself for a crest?" If a Crest was genetic, then Lucas should be in the clear, but he humored the old man. Lucas placed his hand on the Crest analyzer. The device glowed, before illuminating a pattern. Hanneman gasped, while Lucas's eyes widened. The pattern resembled outspread wings, a design that was familiar. Lucas reached under his shirt to pull the pendant given to him in Bladthanna by Cormac. It was the same design.

"I dreamed of this symbol the night we met. The spirits whispered the word Fallen." His words echoed. How had the old Shaman known?

Haneman was all over the Crest in an instant. "Two unknown crests on the same day!? The odds of this are, well… impossible!" The older man had raised his voice. A knock at the door came with all three turning their heads. The door opened and Seteth entered. Lucas quickly retrieved his hand from the device, causing the symbol to disappear.

"Hanneman, I heard shouting, are you…" He took in the trio, only catching a glimpse of the Crest. "…Ah, Lucas. I was looking for you. We have a mission for you."


Dimitri was guilty of many things. He was guilty of surviving at the cost of too many others, he was guilty of his utter failure to protect the people of Duscur, and he was guilty of his impotence as Prince. And now, he was guilty of allowing one of the Lords of the Kingdom to rebel and lead countless men and women to their deaths.

"I just don't understand…" Ashe said, confusion and pain lacing his voice. "Lonato, why…" Both men had been summoned by Jeralt and informed of the situation. Lonato Gaspard, Ashe's adoptive father, had declared war on the Church of Seiros.

"What has possessed him?" Dimitri thought aloud. He could not claim to know the man's mind, but Lonato had clearly taken leave of his senses. He looked back to the legendary knight. "What are his reasons for doing this? Has he sent any kind of justification for this madness?"

Jeralt nodded. "He claims that he is purging the Church of Seiros of corruption. In a letter, he makes all sorts of accusations."

"I would like to hear them all." Dimitri insisted.

Jeralt sighed. "Firstly, he insists his son was loyal to your father and took no part in the Tragedy of Duscur. He claims the Church fabricated evidence and wrongfully executed him." Ashe looked up.

"Christophe was a good man; he was the reason Lonato adopted me! He was a good knight!" Jeralt fixed a look on Ashe. He heard the fourth occupant in the room shift on the couch.

"I'm going to pretend I didn't hear that." Jeralt raised a hand to stop the boy's protest. "Just listen! I don't know what happened back then. But right now, your father has raised an army while you are here. There are enough people who have accused you of being a spy. I've had two knights call for you to be interrogated or worse." He let his words sink in, though Ashe remained defiant. "I think if you had any idea what was happening, you would be with Lonato." Dimitri placed hand on his shoulder.

"He's not threatening you Ashe, he's trying to protect you." The fact Jeralt, a near stranger, was protecting this boy while Lonato put him in danger made Dimitri's blood boil. "And I assure you Jeralt, I too believe Ashe is innocent. He is under my personal protection as well." Ashe grunted, making Dimitri release him and apologize. In his anger, he tapped into the strength of his crest once again. Dimitri looked at his hand, angry. Is hurt and pain all these hands can accomplish?

"As for the other allegations?" Dimitri looked up at Jeralt. "He says the Church was behind Duscur. That is was an attempt to seize control of the Kingdom. He also accuses Rhea of witchcraft and consorting with demons to keep her youth. Lots of inflammatory stuff, but nothing to back it up."

"My uncle, the Lord Regent? What is his response to all of this?" Dimitri asked.

"He says the Kingdom is in no position to send knights to suppress the rebellion. Apparently, there has been some problems with Duscur, or so he claims." Dimirti resisted the urge to scoff. No doubt Rufus was hoping he would die. Another poorly disguised attempt on his life. Or worse, he was purging Duscur once again.

"I see…"

"Lonato, what's going to happen to him?" Ashe asked weakly. Dimitri closed his eyes, knowing the answer.

Jeralt sighed. "I'm sorry kid. If he doesn't die fighting, he'll probably be executed." The freckled youth went silent. "I do have good news. Apparently, your siblings are safe in Gaspard. He left them behind with older soldiers that refused to go with him. Rhea gave her word no harm will come to them or to you."

"A-are you sure?" Ashe asked, the weight of his sibling's fate lifted from his shoulders. Jeralt nodded.

"I am. Now for the bad news. Rhea asked for a knight to keep an eye on you. For your own protection." Jeralt whistled, signaling someone to come in. It was a knight, one Dimitri recognized as the son of Viscount Mateus, though he could not recall the man's name. "Ashe, keep your head down the next few weeks." Ashe nodded, before leaving the room with the Knight. Oddly, the Knight seemed sad too.

The door closed leaving the two men and woman in silence. "Now let me ask you. How are you doing Prince Dimitri?" The old knight asked bluntly. He found that bluntness refreshing.

"I worry for the people of Gaspard, Ser Jeralt. We both know the Church can be unyielding in the face of opposition. Is there any way we may save some of the militia members? I have no doubt most have been lied to or pressed into service!" He was desperate, and Jeralt knew it.

"Rhea will float a pardon for anyone who deserts Lonato and publicly renounces him. After though?" He shook his head. It wouldn't save enough! Dimitri became frustrated. How many ghosts must… The door opened, and in walked Seteth and Lucas. Seteth gave a curt nod before standing next to Jeralt.

Lucas walked up next to Dimitri, sparing a glance at the women on the couch who inclined her head and rose to join them. "I have already filled Lucas in on the situation. Now is the matter of his mission." Seteth said. Dimitri felt like he was intruding, though he wanted to stay. It was his land, and one of his lords who was involved. He would not be pushed out, he was sick to death of beling excluded in his Kingdom's affairs.

The woman extended her hand to Lucas, her purple eyes sizing him up. "Names Shamir, I'm a mercenary that works for the Knights of Seiros. I'll be your superior for this mission." Lucas nodded, taking her hand.

"Glad to be working with another merc." Lucas said, taking the hand. "I was kind of dreading working under a stuffy noble for my first assignment." He looked at Seteth. "Ah, no offense Seteth…" The man waved it off.

That caused the Dagdan to smile. "Tell me about it. I haven't worked alongside another merc in a while. Don't worry though, most of my boys and girls know how to cut loose."

"Shamir commands a small group of scouts and infiltrators." Seteth explained. "Jeralt tells me that you are skilled in subterfuge and would do well under her command. Our forces will be ready by the end of the month to launch an attack on Lonato. But in any battle, we need reconnaissance. Hence Shamir's squad."

Shamir took over. "They are gathering forces in Gaspard, we just don't know where. The town is mostly deserted, so their staging ground is elsewhere." Dimitri tried to think of an answer. Gaspard was ajacent to Rowe, a formal imperial territory that defected to the kingdom after the construction of Arianrhod, the fortress city was complete. It was impenetrable, even nicknamed the Silver Maiden. There were other fortresses scattered along their border with the Empire that were abandoned.

"There are a number of abandoned forts along the border Seteth. Most were constructed in the Kingdom's early days, back when we feared the Empire would invade to reclaim the territory of Rowe. Perhaps they are using one of them?"

Lucas looked confused. "Why were they abandoned?"

Dimitri explained. "There has been peace for years on our southern border. The kingdom needed troops in the north, not south. Even then, it would be too expensive to maintain them all. Hence, we focused our Southern border on the maintenance of Arianrhod."

Shamir hummed. "It would make sense using an abandoned fort like that. You have a map?"

Dimitri chewed his lip. "Such a map would be in Faerghus and take weeks to arrive."

"And be useless by then." Shamir finished.

Jeralt cleared his throat. "Let's focus on what we know and can control right now. We have a militia getting ready to march in Gaspard. We need to get our army ready to meet them. Lucas, go with Shamir to the training yard. Seteth and I need to start coordinating with nearby allies who might send troops to assist us."

"And me Ser Jeralt?" Dimitri asked. Jeralt pursed his lips, looking to Seteth.

"The students of the Officers academy will join us as well, acting in the rear guard. It is unlikely you will face combat but prepare for the possibility." That did not please Dimitri at all. He was a student yes, but he was the Prince and these were his people dammit! His discontent must have shown. Seteth frowned. "And if there is any information you can provide us, we will welcome your help and input."

It was a weak offer. It felt like something an adult offered a child to make them feel involved. But he knew there was nothing else he could do now. What a prince he was…

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Authors Note

The line about the Central Church being the only real church is politics. Slightly influence by Protestant reformation. The Church of Seiros is in the process of similar changes, with different branches forming different interpretations of scripture. All while Rhea tries to keep them under control. So even being called the Central Church rebukes the idea that they are The Church

Cardinal is just a codename they are using. I think I've made it fairly obvious who they are talking about

This was going to be the morning of the last chapter, but I decided to make it a week and a half later. The Lonato plot will end in a big divergence.

Shez's mom taught him to speak properly, but not how to interact with Nobility. I have two plots planned for Shez, but I'm going to let it evolve with the story and see which fits better. One involves him more following Lucas (Rising Shadows) and the other following Edelgard (Crimson Embers)

If you're thinking, if Seteth can sense crests, why didn't he sense Byleth's crest of Flames when they first met? The reason is that Rhea's Prescence hid Byleth's crest from his senses. Her crest is still dormant for the most part, so he would not have noticed unless he was around her alone for long periods of time. It totally wasn't an oversight on my part when I gave him that ability. No siree

I didn't plan on writing a Dimitri POV, but once I did, I couldn't stop. I like him and Edelgard as characters.

For the reviews about Byleth unlocking the Divine Pulse, criticism has been received and I admit it was not good. If I go back and remove it, I would either take it out which would remove the time rewinding part and alter a good part of that chapter, or I would change it to her unlocking the power if a student dies. Let me know if you think it should be unlocked after someone (probably Edelgard) dies or save divine pulse reveal for the Death Knight in the Holy Mausoleum in five or so chapters. Just know that the second option will take more time since I must rewrite a chunk of that chapter. The poll is on my profile