Shattered Songs of Faith

by Sakura108645

Now, one does not expect to wake up in another body when they die. She did not expect to come to such a world that she had only read and played through technology. What's more, that she wakes up as Female Byleth during her childhood days. "Come and see the world in different ways from the River of Time before it all shatters away!" (SI OC) (AU)

45. Chapter 44:Goddess's Song:Part 1:Connect

(Updated: Revised Chapter: 12-2-2022)

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- Unknown Time and Location: ? -

Dark.

Cold.

Ice

Snow

Death

Shadow.

Pulse

Life

Advance

Negative

Hate

That was the place Odesse made his way two as he walked down the streets of what he and his people called home. Buildings glowed and buzzed with electricity; walls showed images in ways that were only imagined. New forms of technology that were forbidden on the surface evolved proudly in this place. Weapons made of deadly metals are said to kill immortals. Odesse only looked around as he saw his people bow to him as he made his way to where he and his fellow leaders waited. A small pool of water was under his feet as the symbol of Those Who Slither in the Dark proudly displayed itself as he stepped over it and made his way to the main base. The automatic door opened as he looked around, seeing giant glass coffins empty. Seems they drained the failures.

Tch.

He was the medic of this place and then his eyes landed on the two lone twins that survived the project of creating artificial Agarthans and were sitting down, waiting for orders.

"You two." He said and the two turned to him.

"59 and 60, I assume Kornya is here?" He asked and 60 nodded.

"Lady Kronya is waiting. Shall we prepare the computers with the data collected?" 60 asked.

"No. You two, return to your rooms. We'll call you if we need anything." He said and the two twins nodded, leaving quickly.

Odesse took one last look at those two before he smirked. He had a pretty good idea those two weren't going to live long. He continued ahead till he arrived at a door, placing his hand on it. It began to glow purple and opened, allowing him into the huge room. Ten chairs all spread out around the room, he walked to his own and smirked as his eyes landed on a mechanical chair where a woman with pale skin, dark pink hair with streaks of blue that stopped at shoulder length, she wore a regular hospital dress but what was interesting was that her body was connected to multiple wires. Not to also mention, a good portion of her right shoulder and right breast were missing, as if blasted off as well as the right side of her face. Her left eye was closed as she only lifted a finger ever so slightly, a hologram screen appeared and the sound of clicking was heard as words began to appear on the screen.

"You are late, Odesse." It read and he chuckled.

"Worry not, Anacharsis, I had my hands full. You'll be happy to hear the news with Cleobulus once she and the others arrive." Odesse said as the words changed on the screen.

"Is that so? What could be more interesting than our experiments?" It said and he turned as one of the chairs glowed and was occupied by a woman with a mask of two faces. One of the snakes and the other of a dragon. They wore witch clothing but half of the dress was black and the other was purple. Her head spun to the side of the dragon, and a male voice spoke.

"Odesse, you imbecile! How dare you hand our Crest stone to the children of the beast?!" They said and then the head spun again but this time to one of the snakes, a female voice spoke.

"What were the results?! Pathetic humans are now becoming aware of us!" The female voice roared.

"Yes, yes. Your new head will be ready soon, Bias." Odesse dismissed them and both male and female voices growled.

"Chilon will not be coming. Nor will Pittacus. Myson will arrive soon. As well as Lord Thales. Cleobulus and Solon will be speaking to us through the communication device. As for Periander, he will not come." Anacharsis screen said as Odesse made his way to his chair. He chuckled when the door to the room opened once more, revealing a man with dark crimson hair, golden eyes, and pale skin who wore the clothing of a warlock in colors of gold, black and red.

"Myson, it has been quite some time," Odesse said from his post and Myson scoffed.

"To think you are still alive, Odesse." Myson's voice was filled with arrogance and pride as he made his way to his chair.

"I live more compared to you who openly does his experiments." Odesse snides back as Myson grunts.

"That is enough." Thales's voice boomed as he entered and made his way towards his throne, "We came here for results. The Flame Emperor and their lap dog have informed us of their recent findings. Seems there are few suspects of who the vessel of The Fell Star may be." He said as he sat two more chairs glowed but only showed hologram images, "Solon, how is infiltration going?" Thales said and Solon let go of a raspy chuckle.

"The Church is a fool. If I had to say, they have gotten lazy over the years. The infiltration was so easy as well as gathering information. But, it seems there is one person who may suspect me." He said and Bias spoke in a mixture of both male and female voices.

"Could that person be a part of Sirius? We have been at war with them now for nearly 200 years. They have made things difficult for us but recently we are the ones winning." Bias pointed at the screen where Anacharsis's words changed once more.

"Investigate who this pest is." The screen said and Odesse spoke.

"Intimidated by a servant of the Beast? My Solon, old age catching up?" He chuckled and Solon sent him a dirty look.

"You do well to watch your tongue. But back to the topic, I've met very interesting subjects. Seems Serios is expecting something. A new Professor was hired along with three new instructors. The traitor Sandana has been forced back by the Knights of Serios. Florencio managed to escape. But we are close to locating Remire village." He said and a hologram image of a woman, yet she wore a veil to hide her face, spoke.

"Pittacus will be excited once she confronts Florencio. She has quite the score to settle with him." The woman said.

"Speaking of settling scores." Odesse spoke and turned to her, "Cleobulus and Anacharsis, you will be happy hearing this." He said to the woman with the veil and Anacharsis just had three dots on her screen, "Your little experiment, Ymir, is alive." And that's when shit hit the fan.

Anacharsis began typing gibberish on her screen as well as gritting her teeth while the woman Cleobulus began laughing hysterically as she touched her face.

"You are saying the vessel of Cirina is alive? My, the world seems to surprise us." Myson said as Solon chuckled.

"I can confirm it. I've spoken to her. She is a quiet and emotionless girl she is but seems she is also friends with the girl Flayn. Catching those two soon will be a breeze. But, seems the girl has been unstable recently." Solon muttered as Cleobulus was heard slamming her hand on a desk.

"That bitch, Emily! She said the girl died 11 years ago! Argh! If I was able to enter the Royal Palace like before, I would have gone to rip her throat out! That witch!" Cleobulus roared furiously as Anacharsis screen held uppercase letters.

"CIRINA, I WILL MAKE YOU PAY FOR WHAT YOU DID TO ME! MY CORE HAS BEEN DAMAGED BEYOND REPAIR AND I NEED A NEW BODY! ARE YOU NEARLY DONE WITH IT ODESSE?!" Anacharsis typed rapidly and Myson burst out laughing.

"That is enough." Thales said, "I shall speak to the Flame Emperor regarding that girl. For now, we must focus on the Rite of Rising next month. Solon, has your work been to allow subject 1459 to assist you?" And Solon nodded.

"Yes. The boy will be coming soon. But I do wonder...something has been bothering me. Has there been anything on...that man?" Solon asked and Bias began cackling in their male and female voices.

"No clue! No clue! He disappeared off the face of the map!" Bias cackled and Solon was departing whether he should kill them or not.

Odesse for once actually seems to be enjoying this exchange.

- Monastery: Blue Sea Moon: July 10th: Wednesday -

Bright and early it was, yet the feeling of joy was not something in the air. Edelgard sat up slowly from her bed and looked out the window, letting go of a small scoff as she saw gray clouds in the sky. The Blue Sea Moon was that month when the heat was an utter nightmare, the humidity makes worse when thunderstorms come. She wondered if that is one of the reasons why The Professor told everyone in all three houses that they are forbidden to come to wake her up in the morning during the Garland Moon, Blue Sea Moon, and the first two weeks of the Verdant Moon also. Everyone was confused about this along with Professor Hanneman and Manuela. Emily knew why as well as Amir, Alexandra, and Christian.

"All of you. She means it. Especially you boys. No one will wake her up. I'm serious."

It was very unusual to see Christian seriously saying that.

Edelgard was honestly curious about why they were forbidden to do such a thing. It was also a bit funny seeing her also tell Seteth to not go and wake her up at all during those times. Of course, he asked why and he did not get his answer, just a bright red face that said to him it was a female secret. Seteth just left it at that. Edelgard let go of a sigh as she got up and walked to her closet to get her summer wear uniform because the heat has been unbearable these past few days. She changed and combed her hair, deciding to put in a sideways ponytail on her left side, fixing her ribbons to match it. Of course, she isn't a fan of how short the skirt was but you have to deal with it. Thankfully today was their day off. With the way everyone returned, it was a good thing that happened. She had never seen Alexandra so...so...broken as well as witnessing the woman wield a Heroes Relic she had never seen or heard of before.

"Could there be unknown relics out there...?" She muttered as she finished putting on her boots, grabbing her parcel to head out to the marketplace.

- Marketplace -

"Hey there, Eddie! Here to get some new products? I got merchandise from Brigid, Hydras, and Yissel today!" Anna smiled brightly as she proudly displayed her cart filled with unknown trinkets and also many other things.

But then again, with Anna, you need to be careful because she will always have an unfair deal. Hubert scoffed a bit as he was looking at a few tomes and when he reached for one, Anna smacked his hand.

"No touching the merch unless you are buying!" Anna said and Edelgard smiled while Hubert glared at the pink-haired woman.

"I wanted to ask something." Edelgard said and Anna raised an eyebrow at her, "The Professor had forbidden everyone except Sandana, Amir, and Alexandra to not wake her up in the morning for this month and part of next month. Out of curiosity, do you know why?" She asked and Anna chuckled a bit.

"I do but um...just...not in front of him." Anna looked at Hubert a bit unsure and Edelgard had him back away a bit, then handed her a gold coin.

Anna leaned in and whispered, a smirk on her face.

"Arisa sleeps naked during the summer." And boy did Anna burst out laughing at how red the white-haired girl turned, well that information was worth the payment of gold!

"Cough! Um...thank you, Anna." Edelgard said and heard metal clanking footsteps approaching.

"Greetings, Anna! Glad to see you are well!" Oh, it was the Gatekeeper.

"Hey, Alm!" Anna waved and Edelgard finally learned his name, "Here to get some merchandise or the usual Noa fruits?" Anna asked and Alm nodded.

"That and also...do you have any Zanado fruit? Or those chai spicy candies?" Alm asked.

"Oh?" Anna smirked, "Who's the lucky lady? It's Celica, isn't it?! You're finally confessing!" She clapped her hands together excitedly while Alm waved his hands frantically.

"A-Anna stop! Don't say that out loud! But yes and no! The Zanado fruits are Celica, the spice candies aren't for me. The Professor asked me to get them for her. They're a gift for...Ashe. You know with...everything that went on." Alm mumbled and Anna nodded.

"Alm correct?" He turned towards Edelgard who called me, "Where is the Professor now?" She asked.

"Sorry, your highness. I can't answer that. But, I do have something to report." He smiled and pointed to the sky, "They say during the Blue Sea Moon, the goddess Mila, and the Goddess of Fodlan, Sothis, her friends, and family, would sing the songs of life to bring joy to the lands. That's all!" He grinned as Anna handed him his items and he handed her a silver coin.

"Have a good day!" Alm waved and left, leaving Edelgard and Hubert staring at him with wide eyes.

Anna internally chuckled as a small smile graced her lips as she looked at the two. In a different life, these two were her best customers along with the rest of the Black Eagles, Blue Lions, Golden Deer, and Ashen Wolves. In a different life, this place was hollow for 5 years, many that once she would commonly, either die, left, or were never seen again. In another life, the man with green hair, Beleth, proposed to the girl with light blue hair. In another life, Byleth danced happily with the Emperor the two happily laughing as their friends and companions cheered in joy. On another life, the walls that closed off Fodlan were torn down, and this place filled with people from all over the world, Byleth and Beleth fought side by side with the Archbishop and The King of Almyra to take down the fallen King of Liberation. In another life, the twins, one with the Emperor and the other with the King of Faerghus, two clashed, The Kingdom Victorious. In another life...there was no victor.

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11...12...she stopped counting at this point and looked around the marketplace, sorrow filled her heart as she saw the blacksmith woman fix an axe for Caspar. The battalion merchant speaking with Hubert, the black-haired man plans to hire a mage battalion for himself. Edelgard eyes held the gleam of a hawk as they were zeroing in on the candied fruits from Brigid. Dimitri spoke with a weapon expert regarding the repairs of his lance. Ashe, despite looking a mess, was smiling a bit as he spoke with Petra. Claude had somehow managed to get Alexandra out of her room, even if her hair was all over the place. She stiffened when Ashe looked their way and stood up to walk to talk to her. Anna knew Alexandra was expecting Ashe to hate her. Even curse her since she took the life of his father.

But now, Alexandra's eyes went wide when he hugged her tightly (Anna did not miss the hint of jealousy that flashed through Petra's and Claude's eyes) telling her that he forgives her and she shouldn't carry the burden alone. Oh my, it was indeed a disaster because Alexandra became a crying mess and poor Ashe was panicking. Anna then began to worry. She never did tell Arisa that she knew that all those years ago, she knew she saved her life. It was a topic Anna decided to wait on. She also hasn't spoken to Chris about how exactly she obtained the Sword of the Creator. Another topic she is waiting for is the right time. But when will it be the right time? Perhaps when Arisa starts having...certain dreams. No, she already had them and she wasn't aware.

"Hey, Anna!"

She turned to see Chris heading her way, but he wasn't in his executioner clothing this time. He was wearing a black shirt with regular baggy pants that are easy to move in, and on his waist were the sword and dagger he always carried. He looked a bit troubled as he made his way.

"Hey there Christian. You look troubled. What's wrong?" She asked and he looked around.

"Can we talk in private, in your tent?" He asked, troubled and Anna did not miss Edelgard whisper to Hubert, most likely to listen at the conversation since she was still investigating Arisa, Christian, Amir, and Alexandra.

"Alright. Go in." Anna motioned him to follow her into her tent the minute they entered, the barrier around it came into play and no one could look inside nor hear anything from the outside or see.

Inside the tent led to Anna's secret shop but it was also a comforting place that felt like home. There was a sofa, even a bed. A table with a tea set ready. The two made their way to the table and sat down across from each other.

"Alright. Spill. What's wrong?" She said and he sighed.

"Arisa and I have been having these strange and haunting dreams." He began and Anna froze.

"Wait...both of you?" She squeaked as he nodded.

No, no, no, no! It was supposed to be Arisa only! How can he also be having the same dreams as her?!

"The dreams are the same. The throne room of Sothis, yet on the throne it is either a male or female or both. Multiple chains around them dress in Sothis's Regalia. They weep. Saying...something. We can't hear it but it's all nothing but whispers to us. Arisa said she had the dream before but for me?! Even I don't understand why I am having those dreams when I don't have the Crest Stone of Flames in me! Anna you gotta know something?! Which Byleth and timeline entrusted you the sword?! What happened in their timeline?!" Chris said desperately as Anna shook her head.

"Not yet. I can not tell you yet." She answered and he let out a tired groan.

"Then can you answer why Byleth entrusted the sword to you?" He asked.

"That I can answer." She stood up and walked to one of her bookshelves where she picked up a book and opened it, then strolled back to him, showing the page.

"This is Russian," Chris said and unfortunately he can't read Russian.

"Russian? Is what you and the people of your former time call it? Anyhow, look again." She instructed and he just did.

The words changed again and revealed the words in the Fodlan language, it looked almost like a diary.

"Byleth entrusted me with the relic, to make sure it did not fall into the hands of the Agarthans. As for the Crest stone on it, you should figure that by yourself." She answered and Chris looked at her surprised.

"Did you um... have to cut them open?" He said and Anna felt ready to slap him.

"No. They...sigh...they ripped out the stone themselves." She said and Chris for some reason placed his hand over his chest.

"Somehow...I know that..." he muttered as she looked at him confused.

"Never mind that." He said and looked back to her, "Thank you for listening to me. I'll be heading back to the academy. By the way, I know Hubert is trying to listen in and probably pissed he got nothing at all." He chuckled as did Anna.

"He's your brother-in-law. By the way...when will...you and Gina tell them? That...you're both alive?" She muttered and Chris stopped himself from standing up.

He was silent for a few moments then spoke.

"Not yet. As much as it pains me I can not call her "sis" or "little snow" like I used to. But...I do hope when the time comes, she will believe me. As well as Hubert with Gina. I know there is a chance they may reject us but I'm willing to take that chance. It's not the first time I've had an experience like this." He chuckled a bit sadly as he stood up.

"Thank you again, Anna. But the way, I'll buy that Killer sword." He pointed to the katana-looking sword on the far right and she smirked.

"4 silver coins." She smirked.

"Oh come on! That's a rip-off!"

- With Arisa: Library: Restricted Section -

Saint Lejare was known as the master of Reason and Faith Magic, as well as creating new formulas of spells. He was also worshipped as the Saint of Wisdom and Knowledge. He gifted the flames of knowledge to the people of Fodlan, to help them reach new peaks. He helped perfect "Lost Song." New theories of the magic of unknown levels were discovered.

"Well, in my old world you would pretty much be known as Prometheus, the trickster who stole fire from Zeus and gifted it to us, humans! This a fucken rip off Greek mythology! ARGH!" Arisa said as she slammed the book shut and groaned.

She was inside the restricted section and thankfully was the only one so she did not care that she cursed out loud. Sothis hummed a tune as she sat on the sofa across from the table sitting at, in her child form, a few faes that were invisible to a normal human eye were flying around. She spotted Hersevelg sleeping peacefully outside the window and just laid her head down on the table.

"I got to be honest." She said and Sothis turned her way, "I am a nervous wreck for this month. I spoke with Ashe and said it was alright to grieve for him and to come back when he was ready. He was surprised and he came back a few days ago from Lord Lonato's funeral. But he was grateful that I understood. That sweet boy...sigh...I wish he didn't have to go through that...same with Alexandra. She chose to take on the burden of taking Lonato's life, and I saw how much of a toll it took on her. I'm glad she opened up to Claude...and surprisingly, she and Ashe are becoming friends. I'm glad. I've spoken with her also and I'm glad she opened up to me about how she felt about this whole situation. But..." she stopped herself, remembering the cold yet pleased gaze Rhea gave to her friend.

The minute they landed on her, Arisa, they became tender and soft.

She hates this treatment of favoritism Rhea is having and even noticed how she looks at Chris and Amir. Rhea looked at them like bugs she wanted to squash and it irritated her. She knows the woman is kind but just seeing in person the obsessive side of her was making her feel sick to her core. Rhea loved Sothis far too much. She could not let go. She is trapped in the past, believing that the perfect little world she lived in would come back. Arisa knows Rhea can become her biggest nightmare IF the Nabatean woman decides it.

"Oh my, oh my. This is rare to see you so frustrated."

Aris turned her head so she saw a beautiful nun but also knew the fiery personality she had. Xina was one of Florencio's apprentices and worked as a nun in the monastery. Xina was a well-loved nun who was friends with Mercedes, Marianne, and Silque, the trio would study faith magic together. Xina was the second head of the library and was in charge of the restricted section and technically...also of books she hid away from Seteth because he would never approve of them. Behind the church's back, she trashed-talked certain nobles and was proud to bring in fresh books that aren't "Church Fodlan trash-approved". Oh, if Xina existed in her old world, she knew for a fact she and her friend Sophia would have been friends. Sometimes Arisa can picture her as one of those badass nuns from the movies who would whip out guns and knives from her clothing. Then again, she also pictured Mercedes like that. Would it be wrong if she tried to make an old-school pistol in this world...? She should try it.

"Sorry. Just...still a shaken from a few days ago." Arisa sighs as Xina is fixing a few boxes and snorted as she found the book she was looking for.

"Don't worry, you'll survive." It was strange at times hearing Xina speak perfect Fodlan yet she had a light French accent that made Arisa wonder if she was from the Empire.

She turned and raised an eyebrow at the red-covered book that Xina was holding, the nun had a bright blush on her face, her eyes dazed, and Arisa was just confused.

"Hey, um...what book is that?" She asked as Xina looked at her with a glint that made her spine shiver.

"This book was written 400 years ago by Joseph Hellman Gloucester, The Fodlanise Guide to Sexual Life," Xina said happily and Arisa slammed her forehead onto the table, while Sothis covered her mouth in shock.

"So the Fodlan version of the Kama Sutra?!" Arisa mentally screeched as Xina blushed a bit, "So I'm guessing you are going to use it for educational purposes?" She asked.

"I will soon. All students of the three houses must go through sex education." Xina said as she turned to her, "But changing the subject, let's talk a bit about you as well as your relationship with Lady Rhea." She smiled as Arisa was now feeling very uncomfortable on the topic.

"I shall be blunt. I don't like you." Xina said Arisa was wondering what the hell she did to offend this woman, "Not in that sense. I meant in the way Lady Rhea looks at you. It's an obsession and she wants something from you. And yes, I know about the Nabateans and Sothis. I am part of Sirius." She smiled like a fox and Arisa was starting to worry that she met the Kiara Sessyoin of Fodlan, "But here is the thing, love. You need to create a proper friendship and relationship with the woman." Well, that-!

"Wait, what?" Arisa blinked multiple times as they sat back down Sothis was listening.

"The eyes and ears of a fox I have everywhere, love. I am what you call a Faerie Doctor. A rarity we are but back to the original subject. I know you fear Rhea. But letting that fear control you-upupupup!!" She put her index finger up because Arisa was about to interrupt her, "As I was saying, letting that fear control you is not good. Non, non, non! Establish a relationship with Rhea, Beleth, and Seteth. Speaking of Beleth, have you two talked?" And Arisa shook her head.

"Well, that's too bad because you're going to talk to him! But back to Rhea, though at times I question her sanity, she is a kind woman. Try to establish a similar relationship. Like...Aunty and niece. Let's start with something simple, like tea!" Xina clapped her hands together happily.

Honestly, Arisa did want to try and form some sort of relationship with Rhea. But it was complicated. First off, she hasn't exactly...established the best image. The fae told her that Rhea was pissed to learn that the child she had been looking for for nearly 21 years was right under her nose the entire time as a Holy Magus. Not to mention she played them all like a fiddle, keeping her identity a secret for so many years and then dropping the bomb of why she did it despite having a resume of teaching in the Magic Academy in Fhirdiad as well as that of Holy Magus. Seteth told Rhea exactly what went down during her Battle of Offers and let's just say, Rhea wasn't too pleased hearing the ideas and deals of a 15-year-old girl back then were similar to Zander's as well as...others.

As well that Kiana Kalsana was working with the most well-known Holy Magus known both in Fodlan and outside, Emily! Medical advances as well as agricultural ones advanced at a steady pace thanks to the two doctors along with Edward's help. She let go of a sigh as Sothis hugged her from behind and Xina was about to speak but the door to the room opened, making the two females turn.

"Oh! Forgive me, I did not think anyone was in here." Oh well, you look at that, it was Seteth.

"Non, non! It is alright! I have just finished talking with Arisa!" Xina smiled, "I got the book I wanted. Bye-Bye!" Xina giggled as she quickly grabbed the book of sex before Seteth figured out what it was.

With the door closed, Arisa let go a sigh as reopened the book Tomas had lent her and noticed Seteth staring at her.

"Is something wrong, Seteth?" She asked as she turned to him.

"No, nothing is wrong. But seeing how you are here, this is a perfect opportunity for us to speak properly. May I sit?" He said and she nodded as she motioned him to sit across from her.

"Thank you. But now onto the topic: There is a matter I would like to discuss with you. I believe I've told you this before, but it is my responsibility to aid the archbishop in all her duties." He began and Arisa nodded.

"Yes. I read about such duties in my books." She answered and he nodded.

"That is good to hear. Spiritual instruction, ceremony oversight, donation management—all of the church's many administrative tasks. I oversee not only the priesthood, but also the Knights of Seiros and the Officers Academy. The archbishop entrusts a great deal to my discretion, and I am honored by her confidence. Even when she must make decisions herself, she often seeks my counsel in advance. And yet… Your appointment to a teaching position at the Officers Academy was a complete surprise to me. " He said and Arisa nodded.

"Believe me...I was surprised. I lived my life as Kiana Kalsana for many years and I suddenly reveal that was not my real name, I can only imagine that didn't exactly create the best image of me. So, it is understandable that you do not trust me. As well as my uncle, father, aunt, and my friends." Arisa said as Sothis sat on the chair next to her.

"Hmm, still uptight like all those years ago. I am sorry you all have been forced down this path. At times I feel it is my fault but like you said Arisa...it is not." Sothis sighs as Arisa gives her a small smile.

"Thank you for understanding. Frankly, that decision baffles me. You should be fully investigated, at a minimum, before being trusted with such a responsibility. But no such investigation has been conducted. I know you are skilled in war, and matters of strategy, but beyond that, I know next to nothing about you. Other than your four years as Kiana, what about as your true name, Byleth Reus Eisner." He said and Arisa spoke.

"Arisa." She said and he blinked multiple times, "My name is Arisa Byleth Reus Esnier. Byleth or Arisa or Professor you may call me. Whichever you feel comfortable with." She said and he nodded.

"Very well then. Frankly, I am just not sure how to handle you. I am the archbishop's right hand, and yet when it comes to you, I have been told almost nothing." He said she spoke.

"Then would it be alright to start fresh then? I could answer some questions about myself if you like?" Arisa smiled as she tilted her head to the right a bit.

Seteth didn't know why but her eyes reminded him of his mother. Eyes that can see to the very depths of one's soul. Brown-colored eyes that faded to green, something he had never seen before other than his brother, Lejare and Noa.

"Very well. In any case, it is time I learned more about you. I ask only that you answer my questions honestly. I will be most grateful for your cooperation." He said and she nodded.

"First, I would like to know just how much you know about yourself. You are the child of Jeralt Eisner, correct?" He began.

"Yes. He is my father and from what I learned, my mother's name is Sitri Rosa Eisner." She answered and nodded.

"If you really are his child, then no one would voice any complaint about you joining the knights. How long has it been since you became a mercenary?" He asked and saw her stiffened.

"It's...not exactly a good memory but 17 years now. I become one at age 4 when I snuck into my father's wagon for a job he had to do at the Kingdom." She said and he gawked.

"You...snuck on...?" Oh! Looks like she triggered his father's side.

"Yes. I was four years old and was recovering from an injury. '' she smiled as she placed her hand over her heart, "But it'll take more than an injury to stop my curiosity. I managed to stay hidden in a crate for 2 weeks! Ha! I call it my greatest achievement because I didn't get found out till AFTER crossing the border to the Kingdom!" She had her fist up in the air, to declare her pride in that time, "But other than the adventure was fun and of course, I got a huge lecture from my father, uncle, and aunt, there was one moment that made me realize the world isn't as perfect as it seems." She said and Seteth nodded.

"I am sorry you had to learn the hard way." He muttered and she shook her hand a bit.

"No, it is alright. It made me realize...the world I live in now, is my reality." She said and looked at her with a raised eyebrow.

"Is that so? But now onto my next question. Come to think of it, I have never asked your age. Just how old are you, exactly?" He asked and saw her cross her arms.

"Just so you know, it is rude to ask a lady her age." She said, "But in all seriousness, I'm 20 years old. I'm turning 21 next month." She said and he nodded.

"21...21 years ago...there was fire...so this girl...really is the child that supposedly died in the fire." Seteth thought he noticed her eyes were calculating.

Those eyes reminded him of his mother. Even if his sister Noa, at times even that of Indech or Lejare. But the girl also had Rhea's smile, but only it was shown when needed. Ever since he met her 5 years ago, he noticed there was something ancient about her. Perhaps in another life, the two knew each other.

"I see. However, permit me to make one thing clear. Whatever her reasons, the archbishop has placed great faith in you. Do not betray that trust. That is all." He said and she nodded.

"Seteth, may I ask you something...I bit more...on a personal level?" Arisa said and he blinked a bit.

"It's nothing like...private or anything like that. It's more towards...umm..." she figured with her right long bang, "How did...you meet my aunt, Sandana?" Well that he wasn't expecting.

"Ah yes...Sandana. Well, I met her at Fodlan's Throat when she was a Captain of The Knights of Serios. Not exactly the best meeting since she thought I was an enemy and nearly ripped my throat out with her wyvern." He said and Arisa blinked multiple times, trying to stop a giggle fit from happening.

She covered her mouth and was shaking a bit, trying not to laugh. Seems Seteth noticed.

"I am assuming...Sandana never spoke of me." He said and she gasped, trying to catch some air as she nodded, "Sigh, makes sense. We didn't exactly depart on the best terms." He muttered and she smiled sadly at him.

"Aunty can be difficult but she is kind. She always places her family first before herself. She accepts others for who they are and respects other views. I also know of her past and who she was before she met her father." She said and he looked at her surprised, "Don't judge a book by its cover. The oldest saying in the world. I do hope the two of you talk to each other and work out your differences. It may not look like it, but she cares about you. She does." This is where Arisa is playing wingman/woman for Sandy.

"Sorry Sandy, but it's for your own good. You and my son would make a wonderful pair." Sothis giggled as Arisa stood up.

"I know you do not trust me. But I also know you are someone who cares deeply for his family. It is understandable why you see me with distrust. I do not blame you. I would have been the same way if our roles were reversed." She chuckled softly and began to leave, "By the way," she stopped, "Sandy loves flying late at night. Try to talk to her there." Arisa smiled and left, before putting the book back.

With the sound of the door closing, Seteth was silent and then let go of a sigh. She reminded him of his mother and Noa. And it was true, he didn't trust her but he saw the way she treated the students as well as his daughter. With kindness and takes her time. At first, when he confronted Flayn about secretly taking magic and brawling lessons from the Professor, even going to her seminars, he was furious. Flayn fought back, putting her foot down, saying he was beyond overprotective as well as filled with paranoia. She understood why, and she believed these people would do no harm but even he has his doubts. If there was one thing he feared about the Professor, it was her eyes. Like they could see into the very depths of one's soul. Her eyes, even when she was a young child, always held the look of someone much older, they reminded him of Emily.

He turned his head as he heard the door once more and frowned at the sight of the older brother of the Professor, it seems he hadn't noticed him. Now he did not trust Christian at all. Ever since he witnessed him picking up The Imperial Princess and also his daughter, and throwing them into the pond, for swimming lessons he says, he held a grudge. Flayn had fun and wanted him to do it again, the princess was going to kill him. Seteth watched Christian head to the section of books about the history of Fodlan.

"Let's see...it should be...here it is," Christian muttered as he pulled out about the Legends of the Goddess.

"Sigh...hopefully, this helps. These nightmares are a pain..." he muttered and quietly stood up, listening and not making a sound.

[-]

"How bad are they getting? Are you both having them the same way?" Heather spoke in Christian's mind as he was reading a few sentences.

"I don't know...Arisa feels like chains are wrapping around her. I feel like something is trying to pull me down. It's like something wants us to not succeed." He said as Heather let go of a light hum.

"Are you afraid?" She asked him to stop turning the page.

"Yes...I'm afraid...I don't want to lose my family again..." he closed the book and put it back as he rested his hands on the bookshelf, laughing a bit dryly.

"Heather...at times I wonder if you do this on purpose..." he said and his sister hummed.

"Say what you will. But might as well speak now since we are alone." She said and he nodded.

"I'm afraid of seeing my family die before me again...in my old home...Arisa died alone...

I ended up in the Kingdom and then for nearly 4 years...I knew nothing of my other siblings...and you...I don't want a repeat of the past...that's why I want to do what I can, in this time." He muttered as she turned his head, only he could see his sister, Heather, looking like a normal human.

Dark brown hair with violet eyes, short curled hair, wearing a dark crimson ball dress as she looked at her nails.

"Maybe throwing Edelgard into the river wasn't a good idea?" She said and he groaned.

"Yeah, you got a point." He sighed.

"How is teaching for you? Not too bad I hope." She said and he chuckled.

"Hey, the kids may give me gray hairs but they're alright. I'm glad I can help in what I can. I guess this is why Arisa loves teaching." He chuckled.

"What are your thoughts on Seteth, Beleth, Rhea, and Flayn?" Heather asked and he just looked at her like she grew a second head.

And that's when Heather whipped out her famous silk fan and began smacking him with it.

"Ow! Ow! Stop! I'll answer the question, then he-oww!" Chris, despite being an adult, still cowers before his older sister.

Before Heather "mysteriously" passed away, she had a very well-known reputation for working with Duchess Marry. While Heather did not have Crest, the woman made it her mission to study politics as well as teach young noble girls and boys the proper ways of etiquette in society. Despite being highly respected, she has also feared because of her halty and smug attitude as well the mixture of sadism that people called her The Scarlet Empress. Heather pointed her fan at him and glared.

"Has my little brother forgotten his grace as a noble? I shall hammer them and whip you into shape if I must do it all over again!" She declared he waved frantically his hands.

"Okay, okay! I'll answer the question!" Chris nearly screeched but kept his voice down.

"Sigh...Rhea...despite I think her nature towards Arisa is obsessive and very...ominous, I do believe she is a kind woman deep down. She cares about many and is afraid something like the Red Canyon will happen again. Yes, she has done...many questionable acts but I do believe she can atone for them. Maybe one day, she will realize her mistakes." He sighed as he leaned back onto the wall and looked out the window.

"What about Flayn?" Heather asked as she knew a certain man was listening, she was glad he could not see her.

"Flayn? She reminds us of our little brother. She kind, cute, and sweet, like a little sister. That's what I think of her, like a little sister. You know how I am, I'm protective of the people I care about. As for Seteth...I got to be real, when I first met him, I thought he was a brick wall. That was before I recovered my memories. But now that I have them back, I understand why he is the way he is. All he wants is to protect what is important to him. He, Flayn, and Rhea have been through a lot. So it's understandable. Like Arisa says, we understand the two sides of the coin before we judge. As for Beleth, he's a good friend. He's the reason I was able to master brawling because he trained me during my academy days. I'll beat him one day in a match, one day." He sighs as his sister floated around.

"Still, why the sudden questions? It's rare of you to ask me." He said as he opened the window to let some air in.

Heather smiled slyly as she covered her lips with her fan, and spoke.

"Because Seteth is here and he heard everything." She smirked and Chris felt his heart freeze.

"Heather von Hersvelg..." Christian slowly looked towards her, "I hate you." He said and jumped out the window, running for his life as if Rhea was chasing him.

The woman cackled evilly as she turned around to see the said man come out, his expression unreadable. If she could talk to him, she would but oh well. She'll let this man work out his thoughts and leave, a warm smile on her face.

[-]

"Okay...I can do this." Arisa took a deep breath as she stood in front of the door to Rhea's office, holding a tea can of Crescent moon tea.

She stilled her beating heart and knocked, despite the funny looks she was getting from a few of the priests outside the audience chambers.

"Come in." A soft voice spoke and Arisa prepared to walk into the lion's den.

She gently opened the door, and looking inside, it looked like a typical medieval office, yet the glass of windows was stained glass with images of saints on them. Rhea looked up from her paperwork and just barely, Arisa noticed her eyes widen at the sight of her. Her eyes glimmered with joy as she placed her quill down and stood up, swiftly making her way toward her.

"Welcome, Professor. This is the first time I have welcomed you here, is it not? There is no need to be nervous. Please, come closer." Rhea smiled warmly as Arisa came just a bit closer.

"Good evening, Lady Rhea. I apologize if I disturbed you." Arisa said as Rhea shook her head.

"It is alright, child. When you speak with me here in this room, you are not speaking with the archbishop, but with Rhea. It's just me." Rhea smiled warmly and Arisa shifted a bit nervously.

"Alright...I'm just...a bit nervous. We didn't have the best first meeting a few months ago. So...I was thinking having tea and such, or even talking could make up for it. If that is alright?" Arisa said and Rhea chuckled.

"Such a sweet child. Oh," her eyes went wide a bit, "my apologies. I should not be treating you like a child. As Jeralt's kin, somehow you don't seem at all a stranger to me... Speaking of Jeralt, may I ask if he ever spoke of me to you?" She asked and Arisa shook her head.

"I shall be honest, he has said you are frightening." She answered Rhea nodded.

"My, but that does sound like something Jeralt would say. However, one would be remiss to not consider circumstance. To rise to the role of archbishop, one must maintain an unbiased approach to judgment. It often requires a certain sternness of words and actions. However... I believe that the person who stands before you now is no longer frightening. At least...that is my hope." She said as she motioned the girl to sit with her at a table that was being prepared by one of the brownies that live in the monastery.

The brownie's name is Flora, from what she has learned. A shy but kind one. Tea, cookies and even a few hand sandwiches were prepared and Flora noticed the tea can Arisa had and pointed it to it.

"Oh, here." Arisa handed it to her and the brownie smiled at her, and before she left, the girl handed her a cream puff.

"Unfortunately I don't have creme with me but I hope this will do for now." She smiled at her and the brownie kept a happy squeal and disappeared in a shower of yellow dust.

"Flora loves pastries and I give her some from time to time. I thank you. But for now, let us sit and enjoy the tea she made for us." Rhea said as she sat down.

"To answer your question about what my father said, yes there are times you are frightening." Arisa said and she swore Rhea looked hurt, "But before the impression becomes something sour, let me explain myself." She said as she looked at the reflection of herself on the surface of her tea, "As you said before, your role as Archbishop requires you to have a biased judgment. I can understand that feeling. There are times we must become the roles we have to maintain balance. But...I guess...at the same time am glad to see a different side of you." Arisa said as she took a sip of her tea.

"I am glad that you are being honest with me, Professor. Since you are here, shall I tell you about the Jeralt that I knew? By the look of it, you haven't heard much about his time at the monastery, have you? When I first met Jeralt, he was quite young. Why he could not even grow a full beard at that point. On one fateful occasion, the band of mercenaries he belonged to fought alongside the Knights of Seiros. I was traveling with the knights at the time, and Jeralt jumped in front of an attack meant for me. He was gravely wounded. On the verge of death. I tended to his wounds in a desperate attempt to save his life. Thankfully, my efforts were not in vain. Jeralt managed to escape seemingly certain death. I made arrangements for him to receive further care at Garreg Mach. The moment he was deemed fully recovered, I invited him to join the knights." She smiled warmly as she took a sip of her tea.

"I did not know that. Thank you for telling me." Arisa lightly dipped her head and Rhea seemed to glimmer with joy.

"You're welcome. Ah! I ought to tell you about Sandana and Florencio as well!" Well, this conversation did not get boring and Arisa and Sothis were very interested.

"When I first met those two, it wasn't the best meeting. But even so, I invited them to become knights because of the deep respect they had towards Jeralt as well as Florencio's wish to repay me for saving his sister's life. Florencio was quite jumpy in the past and had not grown his hair so much. He had it short. He loved gardening and tending the plants in the greenhouse. When I saw him helping the students with their magic training even if that was not part of his job, I learned he had amazing medical knowledge and suggested to he take the Holy Magus exam. He was very surprised but decided to take it. Sandana and Jeralt would find him asleep sometimes in the hallways, or the library, and carry him to his room. I believe Beleth found him one time asleep in the stables." Rhea smiled at the memory of her son running over to Sitri and then the place was filled with Sandana's screams of frustration because her brother kept being found in strange places.

She smiled as she saw Arisa covering her mouth, the girl was trying not to laugh hearing that information about Florencio. She couldn't help but see more of the girl laughing and smiling like this.

"As for Sandana," she said, "she wasn't the biggest fan of the cold. When fall and winter would come to Garreg Mach, you would see her dressed in up to three to four cloaks because she felt it was too cold. She would scream at the sight of bugs. Ah! Sandana also loved taking care of the children in the orphanage here. At times she would cook meals, and even dance and sing with them. She loved teaching them horseback riding as well as how to properly ride the wyverns. Did she ever tell you that she was a famous dancer who had mastered the Dance of the Goddess? The dance is said to be one danced by the goddess herself. Her loved ones would dance to this song to show their love and gratitude to her, and to bless the people of the land. Some legends even say that if the dancer walks up to their beloved, the goddess shall bless them. Unfortunately, when I sent her to Fodlan's Throat to aid House Gronierl, I forgot to inform Seteth that she was an ally. Their meeting...was very rocky." Rhea giggled and Sothis could see a bit of mischief in her eyes.

Now, this is the side of Rhea that Arisa remembered from the game. The kind woman who only needed to be shown love, but can also be cruel and merciless.

"Yes, Seteth spoke with me about it. I was curious about how he met my aunt well... it's the same answer as you." Arisa chuckled as did Rhea.

"I am happy to know you and Seteth are getting along. If you need anything, do not hesitate to ask. If I may ask, how have they been here for you in the Academy? Are there days you miss being a mercenary?" Rhea said as Arisa took a sip of her tea.

"There are days I do miss traveling but...I am happy here. Teaching has always been something I love doing. I enjoy getting to know the children and helping them improve. I sometimes even help out at the orphanage at times. Being with children reminds me of Jaden and Kaimu." She smiled warmly and Rhea looked at her puzzled.

"Jaden and Kaimu?" Rhea said and Arisa nodded.

"Yes. A little boy from the kitsune tribe. The people of Remire took him in after I saved him from slave traders in the black market. I love that little boy and I treat him like a little brother. Reminding me, I need to visit soon. I do hope he is doing well. And my little cousin, Kaimu, Florencio adopted a young boy 4 years ago. He loves it when we take him out to fly with us." Arisa had unknowingly started gushing about the two little boys.

"Professor," Rhea smiled as Arisa turned to her, "out of curiosity, have you been enjoying the new magic lab?" She asked.

"Yes. I learned from the fae it used to be my mother's." Arisa answered and Rhea's smile only slightly grew.

"Is that so? Your mother...sigh..." she placed her cup down, "she was a kind woman. Would you like to know more about her?" She asked.

Honestly, Arisa felt this part should be something her father should tell her. As matter of fact, it should be a discussion between her and her father about her mother. Arisa shook her head politely and spoke.

"It is alright La-Cough! Rhea. I think...I prefer to have my father tell me first. I hope you understand." Arisa said and Rhea nodded.

"Very well." Rhea smiled as she picked up her cup and took a sip, "But since you are here, I will tell you about your mission for this month." She placed her cup down, "For this Moon, the three houses are in charge of patrolling and guarding the monastery to stop an assassination attempt on the day of The Goddess's right of Rebirth at the end of this month. Do make sure to speak with the students and plan well. I pray for you you all to be safe." She said and Arisa nodded.

"I w-!"

Bubump.

"Ahhh- Ahh!" She suddenly placed her hand over her heart, gasping air tightly as a wave of pain suddenly filled her, dropping the cup of tea to the ground, it shattered on impact.

"Professor!?" Rhea quickly stood up Arisa gritted her teeth in pain as slammed her left hand on the table.

"I...know! This! Pain! M-Magic...shift!" Arisa whimpered as unfortunately, her hair flickered in the colors of teal, brown, and mint green, and worst of all, Rhea was seeing it.

"Professor, breathe! Deep breaths...calm yourself." Rhea spoke gently as she placed her hand on the girl's back, a soft green light came from it, using a healing spell on the girl.

Arisa panted as she gritted her teeth, the pain wasn't so bad but it was still there, her chest ached as if someone stabbed her. She slowly began to take deep breaths, letting air enter her lungs, trying to relax her body, Rhea's magic seems to be in sync with hers, letting her relax a bit.

"Cough! Cough!" She coughed and the pain slowly faded away.

She looked up and saw Rhea looking at her worried.

"Are you alright? Magic shifts are painful, so it is recommended you have someone cast a healing spell as you go through it to try and ease the pain." Rhea said as she went to her cabinet, while the Professor just had her arms on the table, lying her face in them, to breathe and relax.

Rhea knew what it was like to experience the agony of magic shifts. She lived through them herself. All children of Sothis did as they grew to mature adults and their magic evolved so it could become compatible with their dragon forms. But now witnessing the girl go through what only Nabeateans go through, a small bud of hope bloomed within her as she witnessed the Professor go through one before her eyes. All her previous Homunculus never went through it, but now...

Rhea smiled as she prepared a cup of tea, and took out a small vial from her sleeves, careful not to make a sound as she opened the cork out. She emptied the crimson liquid into the tea, using a bit of magic to make it turn clear, as well as get rid of the taste of iron. She turned back to return to the girl. A glint in her eyes said she was happy with what she just witnessed.

"This is wrong." The small voice of reason in the back of her head spoke so softly and it nagged her as she placed the cup down.

"It is not. It will help her body adapt." Rhea thought.

Arisa turned her head and stared at the cup then back at her.

"It's some sweet tea. It'll help ease the pain." Rhea smiled warmly and Arisa nodded as she gently took the cup, rising it to her lips, and began to drink.

Relief filled the Archbishop as the girl did not have a negative reaction drink it, and this would also possibly excel the process. Four years ago she failed, but now, she got what she wanted. However, Rhea held a grudge against The Prince of Faerghus. The boy may have been a child back then, but his glare and skill he used to wield Areadbhar, cost her left hand, now gone. She could feel it ache at times. His power reminded her of Erebus, the Grimm Dragon.

"This is wrong." The voice of reason was just a tad louder this time but she ignored it once more.

"Thank you for the tea and for your time La-cough! Rhea." Arisa smiled as Rhea chuckled at the girl correcting herself again.

"The pleasure is mine. Would you like someone to escort you to your room? Or perhaps some more time to rest?" Rhea said and Arisa shook her head as she stood up, fixing her dress.

"It's alright. I'll be fine. And once again, thank you for your time. I...would love to do this again sometime." She said and Rhea felt joy flutter in her heart.

"Of course! Also Professor, I simply wanted to say that I trust you. By coming to visit with me today, you have... Well... Suffice it to say that my day is brighter than it otherwise would have been. I thank you for that. Have a good day Professor." Rhea smiled warmly as Arisa waved back left, closing the door.

Rhea could not help but let out a sigh of joy at this. She wanted to spend time with her again. Joy, pure joy.

"It's wrong. What you did was wrong."

The voice said again and Rhea shook her head, turning to clean up the shattered cup as she smiled like a happy child. She knelt to pick up the shards as the smile on her face seemed to only brighten more. Yet the voice spoke more.

"Do you only see her as a pawn?" The voice of her consciousness says, "What will you do if she does not become what you desire? Will you hurt her...just like you hurt Sitri? Just like you hurt Beleth?" And Rhea froze.

The little voice of reason has been growing, and for once, a bud of guilt bloomed in Rhea's soul.

[-]

It was rare to see an albino wyvern so beautiful as this one as Sandy gently patted its snout. The albino wyvern, Zarha, was a beauty in her eyes along with Falco. It still amazed her how Alexandra managed to find him when he was still in an egg. When he hatched, he was no bigger than a kitten, and like wyvern riders of Fodlan thought when they saw him, they thought he was defective. But oooh no, Sandana knew exactly what the little one was. A one in million rarities of a wyvern. They grow twice the size of a normal wyvern and are even called the alphas of the herd. She chuckled as Falco chirped at Zarha, who just let out a small cry back at him, and she laughed at how dejected the black wyvern looked.

"Aye Falco, it'll take care more than size to win this one's favor. Ain't that right Zarha?" Sandy laughed as the white wyvern gave her a happy chirp as she petted her.

I'm just glad you don't belong to Almyran Royalty." She said as she took out a piece of dry meat and fed it to her.

"What was that about Almyran Royalty?"

Zarha chirped happily as she turned to her beloved master, Claude. Sandana waved to the boy as she continued to pet Zarha.

"Good afternoon, boy. Glad to know you are doing well. Also, congratulations on not getting caught yet in Alexandra's room. My, boy, you are infatuated with her." Sandy chuckled as she moved onto Falco, taking the brush hanging on the wall to clean him.

"Haha!" Claude laughed, "Well she's important to me. I'm not going to stand by and watch my friend suffer." He said and Sandy stopped.

"Friend?...Haha." She chuckled dryly, "Boy, I know that look in your eye when you saw her wield Skadi. Amazement, shock, fear, but also..." she turned to him and smiled, "Desire." She said and Claude went silent.

"I don't know what you're talking about." He smiled and Sandy shrugged as she went back to brushing Falco's scales.

"Whatever you say." She says.

"By the way, why did you say that you were happy that Zarha doesn't belong to Almyran Royalty?" Claude asked and Sandy glanced back at him as the boy went to his wyvern.

"Albino wyverns are a symbol of Almyran Royalty...Specifically, for the kings, queens princesses, and princes that have become the master of the skies." Claude noticed the bitter tone in her voice as she spoke of the Almyran royal family.

Did...his family wrong her? He needed to be careful so he takes a small step at a time.

"You sound like you hate the royal family." He said Sandy sighed.

"More like a grudge. A grudge...that has not faded..." she muttered as she continued to brush Falco's scales.

"Is it um...I shouldn't be asking this but...why do you have a grudge?" Claude asked and Sandy stopped.

"I-I'm sorry if I stepped into a taboo topic. You don't need to answer." He said and she spoke slowly.

"I hold a grudge...because they massacred my family in cold blood." Her voice was hollow and Claude felt his blood run cold.

Before coming to Fodlan, of course being born as Almyran royalty, he had to learn the history of noble houses, and tribe chiefs, as well as the history of the land. Even his half-siblings couldn't escape history lessons if they wanted to. But there was always one stain in the history of the Almyram family that they show great regret to this day.

The Massacre of The Illac Household.

The family that served the Almyran Royal Family for over one thousand years, was accused of treason 115 years ago and as punishment, we were massacred, and no survivors were found. It wasn't till 10 years after that horrific night, it was discovered that the accusations were false.

The two heads of that time, Isana, the legendary sword master who was said to wield the sword of the Goddess of War, and Mahatma, the wyvern Master who was a proud and highly respected general of the military, were innocent. The true culprit was caught and it was discovered that the noble that accused them were jealous of their achievements also because their son rejected the marriage offers. The family had 14 children, 10 oldest and 7 younger. The Almyran Royal family to this day, is the biggest regret and mistake they have ever made, a stain in their name forever. Claude gulped as he looked over to Sandana, the woman smiled warmly as she was now tending Hilda's wyvern.

"That's impossible...no way...that's impossible...they said there were no survivors. And if they were...shouldn't they be...old? Possibly even passed away of old age?" Claude thought as Sandy sang softly in Almyran.

A familiar lullaby his mother would sing to him when he was a child.

"Boy, you went silent. Something wrong?" Sandy said as she put the brush away.

"I'm alright Sandy. Just...surprised. I'm sorry for your loss." Claude said and she smiled sadly.

"It's alright. Still, I rarely talk about that time. The scars I bear are proof I survived. That is more than enough." She said.

"What...would you do if you met someone from the royal family?" He suddenly asked and she went silent.

"Honestly...I don't know." She crossed her arms and leaned on the wooden fence, looking up to the sky, "There are times I miss the skies of my old home, as well as the people and culture. But that grudge I have holds me back. Truthfully, in the past, I would have loved to return and kill them all as revenge for what they did to my siblings, parents, family, and me. But now...haha! Big dream I say. I bet they are proud they got rid of the filth that served their bloody courts for one thousand years. Oh screw it, I proudly try to murder them on the spot." She answered bluntly and Claude suddenly felt very afraid for his life.

The Illac Household was a renowned military family for many generations. Things like Crest do not exist in Almyra but legends say that a traveler who came from the mountains beyond Almyra (Aka Fodlan) settled down in The Forest of Wyverns, and helped the royal family during the time famine and plagues hurt the country. Because he saved the people, he was eventually invited to work for the royal family.

"Hades...I think was his name..." Claude muttered.

"Did you say Hades?" Sandy said and Claude jumped a bit.

"Sorry. Just talking to myself. I was thinking about the history book I recently read. There was a legend about a man named Hades who served Cirina." Claude said.

"Oh, my ancestor. Hades of the Flames of Hel." Sandy said and Claude froze.

"Excuse me?" Claude gawked as she looked at him confused.

"What? I just said Hades is my ancestor. His real name was Hades Horror Illac. He was a well-known war master and famous for his sword that produced blue flames. Well-known legend in Almyra, not so much here in Fodlan." Sandy said as she stood up straight.

Claude's eyes zoomed onto the sheath sword she always carried. Now that he thought about it, he never saw her use it once. It was the same case with Arisa and Chris. They had weapons that they never unsheathed and always used a different version. Excitement bubbled in his chest as it seems a new thread of secrets was found.

"Anyhow, I gotta go. I'm training Cyril in how to fly a wyvern properly. Time to teach that boy to master the sky! Take care, Claude." Sandy chuckled and left as he waved.

Once gone, the smile on Claude disappeared and turned to a frown of worry. If she was a survivor of that massacre...as well as a descendant of Hades then...

"Oh, I am so screwed." Claude just felt like he just dug his own grave.

He needs to write to her and him...

Unknown to him, Cirina sat at the top of the wall brick, her legs crossed as she had a sly smirk on her face as she watched the Reigan boy running his fingers through his hair, nervously. He turned to leave but then suddenly stopped, he felt he was being watched. Cirina let go of a chuckle as a few fae wyverns looked her way, some let out growls which annoyed her.

"HIIIISSSSSSS!" She hissed back and Claude noticed the wyverns whine, suddenly folding their wings to show submissive behavior.

She chuckled and noticed Falco glaring her way, she just stuck her tongue out at him.

"Bye-bye." She said and floated away, the black wyvern shaking his head.

[-]

"Left! Right! Come on Sadi and Ingrid! Put some muscle into it! Back up Ferdinand!"

"Gha!" Sadi was knocked back by the impact of Amir's training axe and the girl just wanted to leave.

Even Ingrid, Edelgard, Lestia, and Hilda were getting tired. Dedue, Ashe, Ferdinand, Caspar, and Raphael were looking alright but on the side, Linhardt, Lysithea, Dorothea, Sylvain, Ignatz, Henry, and Boey, along with Marianne, looked ready to pass out.

"Concentrate." Amir said as she walked near them, "Focus the fire spell, and do not let it flicker. This type of train is usually used for military soldiers however, it is also used for mages such as yourself. Those of us who also use Reason and Black magic specifically, need it. There is a burden on the body when you use magic, regardless of whether you have Crest or not. The magic inside your body subconsciously limits the output of magic to protect the body. '' She said because she saw Dorothea about to ask, "The point of this is to make your body stronger. And by making your body stronger," she waved her hand and the huge tornado of black flames was unleashed, poor Ferdinand passed out on the spot, "we remove that limit." Amir smiled while the students looked at her shocked.

"Magic is not my specialty but it's something I forced myself to learn and study. All of you are capable of doing amazing things. With or without a Crest. I see you all for who you are. Your strength is yours alone. Your Crest does not define you! You are your own person, a Crest does not make you! You make that person yourself!" Amir yelled loudly so everyone could hear and many looked at her shocked.

"Those words were said to me by my friend, Arisa. But back to the original topic, Linhardt! Your flame flickered! Start again!" She yelled and many began groaning.

She let go of a sigh and spoke.

"Alright. Everyone can take a 30-minute break." She said Sadi cheered loudly, earning a chuckle from the older woman.

Hilda and Lestia dropped onto the benches quickly, groaning loudly as their muscles were sore to the bone, while Ingrid let go a sigh as she sat down at the other bench. Her muscles are tense as she leaned back, spreading her arms over the bench, and looking up to the sky. She heard light humming as she turned her head to see Sadi lightly bending her knees.

"Pipipipi! Lalalalala! Uuhuhuu!" The girl sang with a closed eye smile, her arms out, lightly moving them around as if they were wings.

Honestly too many, she looked cute for Ingrid, it was...

"Annoying." She thought.

Ingrid still holds a grudge against the people of Duscur even if they have been proven innocent.

But she can not forgive the people that hurt her friends and especially Glenn. He lost his right arm, to...to…that beast! Yet he still pushed himself back up and worked his ass off to relearn how to wield a sword. Zander did as well. Yet, she knew behind his back, some spoke ill of him. Saying how could he have survived and saved those children of Duster, the king died. A rift had formed between Rodrigue and Glenn, as well as Felix. She couldn't believe that he worked with Kuza, a noble of Duscur, and even thought of him as a brother. Ingrid felt like she was getting left behind. Perhaps the feeling of longing is what she felt.

"Ingrid! Ingrid!" Sadi skipped her way happily, "We are going to buy some tarts later on! Want to come?" She said cheerfully.

"No," Ingrid answered and Sadi pouted.

"Okay. Then can we braid your hair?" She said again and her hand reached out to touch her hair but it was smacked away.

"Don't touch me," Ingrid said coldly, and not too far, Edelgard, Lestia, and a few others were watching.

"Don't," Edelgard said to her sister, who looked ready to lash out at the Galatea girl.

Ingrid always found it strange why Sadi seemed to attach herself to her. It was strange. Almost a little chick has imprinted onto her. Sadi tilted her head a bit and spoke.

"Ingrid, why do you always have the look of solitude in your eyes? The Chariot runs in your blood, you need to be standing tall and proud. We want to be an amazing person like you!" Sadi said and Ingrid snapped.

"Well, I don't want you near me! Your words are empty!" Ingrid yelled and everyone looked over at them shocked.

Sadi had her hands together, a frozen smile on her face as the words slowly went through her mind.

"Don't." Amir put her hand up to stop Lestia and Dedue to go to Sadi.

Ingrid's eyes went wide as she realized her mistake and slowly saw the smile on Sadi disappear.

"Okay, I'll disappear." Sadi said, "But, let's have a sword match. That should help you release your pent-up anger!" She smiled again and she went to pick up her training sword.

"After all...the chariot reverse signifies forceful, no direction, no control, powerless, aggression, obstacles. Sound familiar...Ingrid Galatea?" Her voice turned cold suddenly and not even Lestia or Dedue knew of this.

"Sadi." Amir walked up and stood in front of Ingrid, her arm out, "I understand you are upset but getting into an argument won't help." Amir said and Sadi clicked her teeth.

"Sadi, why were you angry? Speak up." Amir said carefully and Sadi pouted as she crossed her arms.

"Because Ingrid was mean." The girl grumbled.

"And why was she mean?" Amir asked while Ingrid was worried.

"Because I'm annoying..." Sadi answered sadly.

"Are you annoying?" Amir said and Sadi pouted.

"Yes...sometimes..." Sadi said and Amir chuckled.

"Why are you nice to Ingrid?" She asked and Sadi had sparkles in her eyes.

"Because Ingrid reminds me of my cousin!" And that answer no one was expecting.

Lestia was a shaking mess, holding back her laughter as she used Linhardt as support. Ingrid...was a blushing mess. A puff of smoke emerged from where Sadi was, back to her normal self.

"Well...okay," Amir said as she helped her friend up.

"Also, because I want to become strong so we can defend Ingrid's granny from Sylvian!"

"BAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Lestia burst out laughing while Edelgard just smacked her on her head.

Sylvain just winced at that comment while many looked at Sylvian with a look of disgust. Well so much for that...

- Later at Night -

At times she could not sleep at all yet the nightmares were all the same but they had become fewer thanks to the spell Arisa used on her. Edelgard usually did not walk around at night but today, she just felt like breaking the rules. Using only the moonlight to navigate her way, she made her way through the monastery. She spotted the light from the Professor's door but decided not to interrupt her tonight. It was an interesting way, to say the least. She walked around the garden and smiled a bit seeing the cats. Heresvelg meowed at her as she continued walking, making her way down the path to the pond. Down the stairs, she climbed but stopped.

Samia dostia

Ari aditida

Tori adito madora

Estia morita...

"Singing...?" She muttered, confused, and quietly made her way down the stairs.

She listened carefully to the voice singing it. It was almost childlike yet mature. The song was filled with great sadness the closer she came, the moonlight revealed. On the port at the pond, she could see someone, a young female.

Sori arito asora

Semari aisi isola matola

Soribia doche irora amita

Samaria dose ifia mio lora fia sia adora

Dressed in her green nightgown, and wearing a fluffy cloak, Flayn stood near the edge of the port, her hand spread out singing loudly to her heart's content yet sorrow could be seen in her eyes as she sang. Edelgard's eyes widened as she saw bubbles of water, fish made of wind flying softly around the girl, glowing light green. Flayn's voice grew bold as she sang.

"She's...crying...this song...I know this song..." Edelgard whispered as she continued to listen.

This song and tune, Edelgard knew it. Her brother Chris and Heather would sing and play at times. Chris would play the tune on his harp, while he taught the lyrics to their older sister and her. They would sing the song during their free time. Hubert and Gina would join at times also. She was surprised to hear Flayn of all people sing this song. The mint-haired girl placed her right hand onto her heart and extended her left hand towards the moon, singing softly as the tune was soon to end.

Samia dostia

Ari aditida

Tori adito madora

Estia morita

Flayn used to sing this song with her mother, aunt, and Cirina. The song they would sing was filled with emotions that were difficult to describe. She missed the old days. It was so difficult to accept that everyone was gone when she woke up. To learn she could no longer turn to her dragon form. To learn her mother was gone. To learn of the horrible lies that were written in history books about Cirina. Learning that so many have been hurt. Whenever she closed her eyes to sleep, she was always afraid she would never wake up and enter a comatose state again. She did not want that. She wanted to be here, with these people! To live! To smile! To fall in love. Her voice became louder almost a wail as she sang, her hair glowing a light green.

Nari amitia

Sori arito asora

Semari aisi isola matola

Soribia doche irora amita…

Flayn finished as she wiped her tears, looking towards the moon. She was happy to be awake once more. She could repair her relationship with Cirina and form a friendship with Alexandra. She wanted to continue to get to know Ignatz, a kind young man her is. The fish she created flew near her and nuzzled her cheek. It had been a long time since she used a Lost Song like this.

"You sing...beautifully." Her mint eyes went wide and the fish disappeared in a shower of green dust, she quickly turned to see Edelgard slowly approaching her.

"Oh, good night Edelgard. I did not know you were up late." Flayn said as she fixed her dress quickly.

"It's alright. I couldn't sleep." Edelgard smiled a bit as she stood beside thr green-haired girl.

There was an awkward silence for a few seconds till Flayn spoke.

"Um...why could you not sleep?" Flayn asked and Edelgard spoke.

"Ghost. The ghost in my nightmares. Bad dream. I can't sleep properly." Edelgard said and Flayn nodded.

"I know how you feel...to be afraid of the dark." Flayn said as she hugged herself and looked up to the moon, "A long time ago, there was an accident and I have been afraid of falling asleep. My fear of sleeping is outmatched only by my fear of spending my life alone. At times my sleep is plagued with nightmares...nightmares of the ones that I love...gone." Flayn muttered and Edelgard looked at her shocked.

Edelgard knew the truth of who they were but chose not to say anything. She knows the truth about what Rhea has done. Manipulating history through time. Ha. But also, she knows some are innocent. Flayn may not be a direct descendent of The Progenitor God but she would spare the girl if she chose to surrender once her plans take action.

"Ah! I nearly forgot!" Flayn said as she turned to her, "Umm...what did you think of my singing?" She asked shyly and Edelgard chuckled.

"My brother and sister used to sing that song to me when I was a child. My brother would play the harp and my sister would sing. Sometimes, we would even drag Hubert in." She chuckled while Flayn giggled a bit.

"We should start heading back to our rooms, don't want to be ca-!" And they heard footsteps approaching quickly, thr girls bolted to hide behind the fishing stand.

The silence was all heard and they slowly packed out their heads.

"Alexandra?" Flayn muttered as they spotted the blue-haired woman, and she...looked like a walking disaster.

Her blue hair was a complete mess, dark circles under her eyes and she wore her blue nightgown. She stood at the edge of the port, letting go of a sigh as she saw her reflection, behind her, Cirina was. The pale woman manifested herself, and the two other females had to quickly cover their mouths to hide their gasps. Cirina smiled warmly as she floated, gently cupping Alexandra's cheek.

"Lonato died a peaceful death. Do not feel guilty. You did well." Cirina whispered as she nuzzled her cheek.

"Even so...I still am. I killed him...what does that make me?" She said and Cirina chuckled a bit.

"The sins we are...the sins we bare...the promises that will be broken...we must carry on." Cirina smiled warmly as she hugged her friend from behind, her long blue hair floating out like Sothis.

"You should head back. Claude must be worried about you." Cirina said and Alexandra snorted.

"I'm more worried that he's going to get caught in my room and we'll be in huge trouble." She said as she looked out to the sky.

"Hey, Cirina..." She muttered.

"Yes?" Cirina said.

"I think I'm ready to sing," Alexandra said and Cirina's eyes went wide.

The pale woman floated quickly in front of her, worried on her face. That was new.

"Alexandra..." Cirina said and the girl shook her head.

"It won't be my song of course. I haven't discovered that yet. But...at least it'll be a song that I know. Is that alright?" Alexandra said and Cirina sighed.

"That is more than enough. Let us return to our rooms. Tomorrow, wash up, dress up, and show Rhea you will stand back up! No matter what! Because that is why humans live today! No matter how low we fall, we shall always stand up and rise! That is why the Goddess of Fodlan loved humans!" Cirina declared proudly as Alexandra chuckled, turning to leave.

"You're right about that..."

- The Next Day -

"So for this month's mission, the three houses are in charge of patrolling and guarding the monastery, to help put a stop to that assassination plan!" Lestia yelled out in the auditorium and everyone began groaning because it was too damn early in the morning.

"I wonder if an assassination is truly the goal of our enemy..." Hubert chuckled as Lestia turned his way, and stuck her tongue out at him.

How he wanted to stab a knife at her neck.

"I think it's a distraction. Here's the thing. I don't think the bad guys are trying to assassinate the Archbishop." Claude said as he shook his head.

"Why would Lord Lonato be carrying around a secret note with an assassination plot written on it? And like Claude said, looking deeper into this..." he muttered and Edelgard spoke.

"A barely concealed secret message, trying to distract us from whatever's going on. Sloppy to say the least." Edelgard said and the others nodded.

"I agree princess! I think someone wanted us to find it." Claude said and the lords nodded.

"Do you think the assassination plot is just a distraction?" Ignatz said and Annette spoke.

"What if they're after the treasure vault? There's also lots of valuable stuff in the library and Professor Hanneman's quarters. Oh! What about Professor Arisa's collection of tea sets? Or the restricted section in the library?" Annette said excitedly and Claude turned to her.

"There's a restricted section in the library?" His eyes held a gleam that Alexandra knew immediately.

"Back to the original subject!" Manuela said, "Annette dear, while I do agree with you on that, Hanneman's tools would be worthless to them since only he could operate them. Though...that tea set..." Manuela muttered.

"I have an idea," Alexandra spoke and seems everyone just barely noticed she was there except Arisa.

Her hair was smoother, her face washed up and clean, and even her clothing was changed to dark blue kimono. She stood up straight as she walked up to the chalkboard, circling a specific area of the map.

"Most places where no one will be, The Holy Mausoleum," Alexandra said as she turned back to the group.

"It's the only place you can get in and out with ease during the Rite of Rebirth. Plus, security is usually heavy on normal days but in the event... it's below. Perfect place. Also, it's a cemetery. A seal coffin is there. They say that is where Saint Serios rest." She explained and Claude nodded.

"Whatever their aim, we can't allow any harm to come to the ladies of the monastery. I mean, what would I do with my spare time?" Sylvain said.

"When will you stop destroying everyone you meet?! Yesh! No wonder you'll die old all alone!" Selkie and Voeluria yelled out while everyone else chuckled, Sylvain, winced.

Alexandra chuckled as she looked over to Arisa, who nodded.

"We'll be splitting up into 4 teams!" Chris spoke as he walked up the list, "Hanneman and Manuela approved as well as us. So, time for me to speak." Chris said.

"Team A with Hanneman: Leader is Hubert! Team members are, Dorothea, Ignatz, Boey, Ingrid, Henry, Felix, and Dominic! You guys will take care of the north wing!" He yelled.

"Pardon me, but why am I not in the same group as Lady Edelgard?" Hubert said and Chris spoke.

"You need to learn to interact with others." Chris bluntly answered and Hubert looked ready to murder him.

"Team B with Manuela: Leader is Lorenz! Members are Marianne, Caspar, Dedue, Forrest, Annette, Felix, Petra, and Selkie! South Wing! " He said Lorenz looked happy to lead, the others, not so much.

"Team C with Alexandra and Amir! Leader, Sylvain! (Students: WHAT?!) Dwyer, Norie, Ferdinand, Hilda, Voularia, Seigbert, Linhardt and Sadi! East Wing! " They said and many were questioning these teams.

"Last team is with me and Arisa." Chris said and Arisa spoke, "Leader: Claude! Team members: Edelgard, Dimitri, Lestia, Ashe, Bernadetta, Mercedes, Lysithea, Raphael, and Leonie! The Holy Mausoleum is ours." She declared.

"Wait that's not fair! Your team has all the House leaders!" Sylvain said.

"Adapt," Arisa said coldly and everyone froze as she slowly walked up.

"In a real fight, you will be forced to adapt to change. Position, skills, allies, enemies, you need to adapt to everything around you. This will force you to think. All teams have till the day of the Rite of Rebirth. You will all work together. And yes, this is part of your kid's grades." She smiled proudly and many started to complain.

"If you all have complaints come to talk to me during my office hours!" She said and turned back to the chalkboard but...

Her vision began to become hazy as her steps suddenly looked unstable, she felt a pounding in her head as she placed her hand onto the chalkboard for support. She had placed her hand on her forehead and groaned a bit, closing her eyes.

"Teach, are you alright?" Claude's voice sounded muffled and before she knew it, she was falling onto the floor, muffled yells of worry as her vision was hazed.

The last thing she saw was all her students, friends, and Professors, yelling out her name.

- Location: Zanado -

"I never thought I will be back here again." Emily puffed out the smoke from the pipe as she walked in her true appearance through the dark forest of Zanado.

Deeper and deeper she went. The woods become darker and eerie. The plants seemed to become stiffer and bigger, as if blocking the place yet they moved aside as she walked down the path, smoking her pipe. Emily had a coy smirk on her face and her eyes glowed as she made her way to a huge dome of magic thorns. She smiled as she touched one, the vines began to move and only allowed her to enter. Once in, the vines closed again as she walked through a stone path, her smile only growing more as she reached a wooden door. With hands spread out ahead began to sing the incantation. The gears around the door began to turn at her words, each click of metal brought joy to her.

With a final click, the door opened. As she walked on the red carpet, she spun in joy as the door closed, seeing the huge library that was the size of a coliseum and perhaps much bigger. Tomes, scrolls, even technology that she created from studying Agarthans, collections of relics. She squealed once her eyes landed on a specific relic up the stairs. Her dragon stone glowed, and her purple wings fluttered happily as she picked a beautiful staff with the top being the Crest of Noa, made of gold and blue jewels.

"MAMA IS HOME!" She yelled happily as she kissed it, and looked around, joy bubbling in her chest.

The Great Library of Zanado, its master was back.

"IT'S A GOOD TIME TO BE ALIVE! OOOOOHOHOHOHOHO!" She laughed proudly as she gently landed on the second floor, and skipped her way to the giant hologram glove.

Like the hexagons of a bee hive, hundreds if not thousands of feather quills flew in the air, writing down on parchment paper the record of time. It wrote the truth for thousands of years, scrolls all neatly packed on shelves. But today, she was on a mission. She smiled as she made her way to one of the feathers that froze the minute she spoke.

"Hello, my little darlings. Mother is back." She said and all the feathers began flying all around in joy.

She chuckled as she made them calm down.

"You all did an excellent job. I thank you all. But for now, do bring me the scroll of my twin brother Lejare." She said one blue feather quickly went to do just that.

She hummed a tune as she sat down near the water fountain, the feather returned with the scroll, handing it to her. She thanked it and it left, leaving her with it.

"Now let's see..." she muttered as she opened it, she fixed her glasses as she began to read.

"Wait...Mother's remains...Lejare...is alive..." she gasped as she quickly kept reading.

"Sothis wings...were turned to a weapon...recovering the rest of Sothis's remains...possible...resurrection. Only if Sothis soul desires it. But Rhea does not understand that. She's gone mad. I made sure she never discovered the rest of mother's remains." She muttered and quickly ordered the Scroll from May to be brought to her.

She quickly opened it, reading the missions that happened in Zanado. The bandit turning into a beast...the Crest stone and...

"Sothis's wings...have found their new master..." she froze as her hands began shaking as she continued to read.

"I-Inside...Arisa..." she gasped out and kept reading more.

The situation that happened with Alexandra, what has been happening during the missions. Rhea...

"How low you have dropped." Noa looked coldly at the paper and continued to read but she sensed a strange magic presence, to be more specific...one she was very familiar with.

She chuckled as she made the scroll return to its shelf, standing up, her hips swayed as she walked gracefully, turning to the former appearance of her long dark hair. She put on her glasses as she walked to the magic circle forming in front of the water fountain, and an unknown symbol at the center of it. Oh, she knew who it was. Her smirk became sly as the winds blew hard, her hair flying all over the place but she did not care.

"Oh, my dear brother, trying to break in? If you want to visit, you should have just..." she raised her, her fingers together, her smirk grew, "said so." And snapped them.

The circle crackled with energy violently, then disappeared as a wall of smoke was there but Noa could see a figure in it. She chuckled as smoke disappeared, revealing a tall masculine man that was a bit more built and taller than Seteth. Nearly a thousand years it has been and she smiled since he had not changed one bit but his clothing has. Dressed in the clothing of a war master, dark colors of red and black, his emerald eyes sharp as he had a frown on his face as she walked up to him, her arms spread out as he remembered that damn bloody coy grin.

"Welcome home Lejare!"

Chapter 44: Goddess's Song: Part 1: Connections

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