Well, that was just about the fastest promotion ever.
I get up and get dressed. I remember that Seteth said I would receive a stipend to buy new clothes, and that my room would have to be moved, but those are problems for another day. Right now my concern is surviving my first day as Byleth's assistant. If she, the Ashen Demon, daughter of the Blade Breaker and a formidable mercenary in her own right, was met with raised eyebrows and sidelong glances upon being hired as a professor, then I, the incompetent, foreign, heathen commoner will probably get a cold reception.
I meet the good Professor in the Golden Deer classroom, seated at a wide desk in the front of the classroom by the chalkboard.
"Good morning, Professor," I say.
"Good morning, Professor," Byleth replies.
Professor. It's weird to hear myself addressed as that—first of all because it's from Byleth, who is by all accounts my superior—and second, because by all accounts from Earth, I should be miles away from ever being called that. I haven't completed a bachelor's degree, and probably never will at this rate, let alone a master's or a doctorate. But here I am: Assistant Professor.
"Are you prepared?" Byleth asks.
"For today?" I ask. "Honestly, not really. You just told me to get some rest. And I really don't know much about fighting or tactics—just a little about magic."
"I know. That will not be a problem," she replies. The confidence in her voice makes me want to believe it. After a pause, she continues. "Perhaps it is best that you observe on this first day."
I nod. "That would be helpful, yeah," I reply. "Mind if I come sit next to you?"
Byleth nods, and I take a seat at the desk. I take out my pen and notebook. If the students are going to be taking notes on Byleth's lecture, I probably should as well.
"What's the schedule like for the Academy?" I ask. "I actually don't know."
"Lectures are in the morning, and training is in the afternoon, after a lunch break," she explains. "For the lectures, we rotate houses, seeing one each day. Today is our house, the Golden Deer. Tomorrow is the Black Eagles, and the next day is the Blue Lions."
"So they see Hanneman and Manuela for other subjects on the off days?"
"Yes. Hanneman teaches Military History, and Manuela teaches Logistics. I am the Tactics instructor for all three houses," Byleth explains. "I suppose you are, now, as well."
I just shrug—am I?
Byleth doesn't respond to that. "Those are the three core academic subjects. Practical training alternates between training with skill cohorts and training together as a house. For example, this afternoon, I will teach the more advanced students in weapons training."
"And tomorrow, we're training with the Golden Deer as a unit."
"Correct," Byleth says. "It is my understanding that the schedule gets more complex as students specialize later in the year. However, this schedule will hold steady, aside from special events, through to the end of the season."
It's the tail end of the Great Tree Moon, which is April, so that takes us through May and June, I suppose. Hopefully that's enough time to get my bearings before Seteth flips the script on us.
Our conversation is cut off by the sound of footsteps approaching. "Good morning, Professor," a refined, articulate voice says. Lorenz strides towards where Byleth and I are sitting.
"Good morning," Byleth replies.
He furrows his brow and turns to me. "My good man, if there is not something you need from our Professor, I must insist that you be on your way," he says, the unctuousness in his voice becoming ever more apparent. "I have no doubt there are plenty of tasks around the monastery that require your attention, and the Professor's time is precious—"
"Enough," Byleth cuts in. "This is my new assistant, Harrison. He will be helping me with my duties going forward. Harrison, this is Lorenz, one of our students."
"Nice to meet you," I say, and muster up a smile.
Lorenz nods slowly. "You were the one involved with that nasty business with the former professor, were you not?"
"That's correct," I reply.
"I see," he says, though his calm expression betrays no emotion on the matter. "And this was all approved by the Archbishop, and Headmaster Seteth?"
"Yes," Byleth says.
"Very well," Lorenz replies. "It is hardly my place to question their decisions. At any rate, I suppose I ought to introduce myself properly, then. I am Lorenz Hellman Gloucester."
I nod. "Nice to meet you, Lorenz. I'm looking forward to working together."
"As am I," he says. He looks around the room. A few other students have entered and taken their seats—I recognize Ignatz in one of the middle rows, but not the others. "Ah. I had some words of advice to offer you, but it seems class will be beginning shortly. After our lecture, it would be my sincere pleasure to offer you some guidance so that you may stand before the scions of Fódlan's nobility without shame."
Is he telling me how I'm going to do my job? I mean, granted, that's what I did to Byleth, but without the whole class bullshit. I can tell Lorenz is going to be a real joy to work with—not like that should be a surprise, though. He smooths out the fringe of his purple hair, gives a polite, short bow and a smile before returning to his desk.
The rest of the students start filling in soon after. Leonie, Lysithea, and Claude all arrive around the same time, while Marianne, Raphael, and Hilda are some of the last to come to class. There's some quiet conversation among the students as they arrive. Claude and I make eye contact for a moment, but I look away. He told me to keep my head down, and now look at me—was my gamble worth it, or was he right? Well, there's only one way to find out, and I don't have a choice about whether I get to or not.
When all the students have taken their seats, Byleth gets up and walks to the podium, and a hush falls over the room. "Good morning, Golden Deer," she says. "Now that everyone is here, we can begin. First, I have a very important announcement to make."
She looks over to me, and gestures for me to stand up. I do so.
"This is Harrison. He will be my assistant going forward," she explains. "Is there anything you would like to say to the class?"
"Oh, um," I say. I give a smile and wave. "Hello, everyone. I look forward to working with you all, and—" I struggle to try to think of something more to say "—it may take some time for Professor Byleth and I to figure out exactly what my responsibilities are and all that, so, please be patient. It'll be a learning experience for all of us." I nod and smile again. "Thanks."
Well, that was definitely half-assed, but true. I don't want them coming up to me asking me for homework help or badgering me about grades if I'm barely getting to grips with what the hell I'm supposed to be doing, let alone the material itself.
I sit down, and Byleth turns back to the class. "Now, let's begin," she says. "Last class, we discussed weapon types. Let us review what the most important weapon types are: swords, lances, axes, bows, gauntlets, and the various forms of combat magic." She lists them off quickly, barely taking a breath to let the students catch up with their notes. Granted, they should have notes on this already, but between Raphael's confused expression and Hilda's bored staring into nowhere, I can't help but feel like she's losing them pretty quickly.
At least Byleth takes a moment to write the weapon types she just rattled off on the board before she continues.
"Some of these weapons have certain characteristics in common," she says. "We can divide the weapons into two groups based on these characteristics. Does anyone have any ideas on what those might be?"
Lorenz and Leonie raise their hands, and Byleth calls on the latter.
"Well the most important difference to me is that some of these are actual weapons—swords, lances, axes, bows, gauntlets—and magic is its own thing," Leonie says. "It takes a different kind of skill, they do different kinds of damage… you know."
Byleth pauses, then nods. "That is a good point," she says, "but not what I was thinking. Lorenz, do you know?"
Lorenz's smug smirk is insufferable as always. "Naturally, Professor. The distinction lies in that swords, lances, and bows are effectively utilized from horseback, while axes, gauntlets, and magic are best used by the infantry."
Claude audibly snickers and shakes his head.
Lorenz frowns. "Why are you laughing, Claude?" he asks. "Do you take issue with my statement?"
"I don't think you're wrong, but it's not totally true, either," Claude says. "Don't most common infantry use lances? There are plenty of foot archers, too. And wyvern knights use axes, too—"
I can see Byleth try to get a word in edgewise as Lorenz interrupts, bristling at Claude's words. "Yet many of the decisive battles in our history have been decided by the shocking force of a knightly cavalry charge. What do those knights wield? Lances, with—"
"History?" Claude balks. "What about the Almyran border? How do your horses fare in the mountains—"
"That is enough, the both of you," Byleth says.
Claude and Lorenz dutifully shut up. But in the silence that follows, a new challenger enters the ring. Raphael raises his hand, and Byleth calls on him.
"Hey, Professor, I'm just a little confused about what Lorenz and Claude were saying," he say, scratching his head. "Shocking… that's something with thunder magic, right? But I thought most knights aren't magic users."
"Professor," Lorenz interrupts, "may I enlighten our classmate on my meaning?" Before Byleth can say anything, he continues. "Raphael, it should be evident that I am using the word shock to mean the power and force delivered by using hand-to-hand combat weapons."
"Wait, are you talking about swords that shoot magic?" Raphael asks.
"Certainly not," Lorenz replies. "I am referring to the push and pull that happens when opposite sides meet in close combat."
"Though with that kind of explanation, you could be forgiven for thinking otherwise," Claude cuts in. Lorenz frowns.
"Oh, I see," Raphael says. "I think I get it now. Thanks, Claude, Lorenz. But swords that shoot magic… I don't even know if those are real! Do you know anything about that, Professor?"
"Levin swords and bolt axes," Byleth replies. "They are real indeed. I have not used them, though."
Claude gives a dismissive hand wave. "Levin swords, bolt axes, those are kiddie toys," he says. I make eye contact with him, and I swear I can see a glint in his eyes as the corners of his lips turn up. "Relics, on the other hand—if you wanna talk magic weapons, that's where we get serious."
"Relics…" Byleth says. "What are they?"
Cue gasps from most of the students, and a sigh from yours truly. We're spiralling out of control again, huh?
Even Hilda, who's been looking pretty bored until now, looks surprised. "You've never heard of Relics?"
Byleth nods. "I know I am supposed to be teaching you," she says, "but it seems there is much I did not learn from my life as a mercenary."
Claude is all too happy to launch into a detailed explanation of the weapons for Byleth's benefit—of their status as family heirlooms in the great noble houses, their provenance as the weapons of the War of the Heroes, and their legendary power in the hands of their wielders. Lorenz, of course, has to get in a word edgewise every so often, just to remind us that he's a noble, too, and he knows all about Crests and Relics, too. Finally, Claude caps off his own little lecture by discussing the famed Sword of the Creator, the relic lost to time—"some say it's hidden somewhere in this very monastery!"
It's such a weird feeling, knowing way more about these things than anyone else here—and knowing about Claude's idea to steal the sword in question. I just stare at the desk.
"Thank you for the explanation, Claude," Byleth says.
"No problem, Teach."
"What an unusual pair you two make," Lorenz remarks. "Claude, with that childlike fascination with Relics, one would forget that you are heir to House Riegan. You have handled Failnaught before, yes? For nobles such as us, especially those of such advanced standing to bear a Crest, these things are all but ordinary."
"You're all but a buzzkill," Claude retorts.
Lorenz shakes his head. "And you, Professor—I mean no insult, but I must admit I am curious as to why the Archbishop is so confident in your qualifications if you do not know basic facts such as these," he says.
Byleth just blinks. He's really got her off her game now, even after the whole distraction from the relics.
In the silence, a new voice cries out. "I don't have time for this!" Lysithea says, frustrated. "Professor, please! Ignore Claude and Lorenz, and let's get on with the actual lesson!"
"I second that," Leonie says. She turns to Claude and Lorenz. "If you want to talk about Crests and Relics, go ask Professor Hanneman. Professor Byleth's here to teach us tactics. That's why the Archbishop picked her—because she learned from Captain Jeralt, and he's the best there is."
"Yes," Byleth says. "Let's get back on topic." She turns and looks at the board—evidently she forgot what she'd written herself earlier in the class.
"We were talking about types of weapons," Leonie prompts Byleth.
"Oh. Right," Byleth says. "Thank you." She turns back to the class and begins her lecture.
I take a deep breath. Should I have intervened somewhere in there? I'm not sure. My plan was to just observe, but the Golden Deer seem more than a little disorganized, even if it's mostly due to Lorenz and Claude butting heads and derailing everything. Maybe Byleth took my advice, on asking the students questions, too literally. What the class needs is more structure, but not so much of it that she just reads out of a book. A pit forms in my stomach as I dread the awkward debriefing we're going to have after all this.
"The most important difference," Byleth explains, "Is that swords, axes, lances, and gauntlets are all made for close combat use. Bows and magic are best used from a distance," she explains.
Lysithea raises her hand, and Byleth calls on her.
"Professor, this is obvious," she says. "Why are we wasting our time on this?"
"Oh." Byleth looks around the room, and to me, then back to the class. "I suppose it might be. But I wanted to make sure you all understood."
"That's a good thing, because it wasn't obvious to Lorenz," Claude calls out, eliciting a few snickers, and groans, from the class.
Byleth, mercifully, ignores him. "In any case, while you might think the distinction is obvious, it determines everything in battle," she explains. "Battles have two parts which require different approaches: missile tactics, when the combatants are fighting each other at long range, and then melee tactics, when both sides meet and fight each other hand-to-hand."
Some students raise their hands to interrupt, but Byleth holds out a hand to silence. She has the floor, and she intends to use it for once.
"Not all battles consist of one, then the other. Sometimes forces may try to retreat, and the enemy can choose to pursue them, or harass them at range as they try to escape. The retreating side may take up a defensive position and fight back from there. But the longer a battle goes on, the less organized it becomes, and the more these two parts get blurred together."
Byleth spends a little more time elaborating on this point—describing how melee and ranged combat work from a greater tactical perspective, especially with respect to using cavalry, infantry, armored, and aerial units—but just when she gets going, the church bells sound, which signals the end of the period.
Just like in the real world, all the students quickly shuffle to gather their belongings.
"I suppose we'll continue this next time," Byleth says. "Your reading assignment is on the capabilities and uses of ranged and melee weapons as well as magic. What we were supposed to discuss today. Class is dismissed. Those of you in Weapons Training D, I shall see you in the afternoon."
Most of the students head out of the room. I spot Marianne slipping out quickly, followed soon after by Ignatz and Raphael, as well as Leonie and Lysithea. A few familiar faces seem to lag behind and migrate their way towards the front: Claude, Lorenz, and Hilda.
"Well, that was quite the class," Claude says. He turns to me with a wink. "Fancy seeing you here. What'd you think of your first day, now that you're a big shot?"
"Good to see you too, Claude," I reply. "Assistant Professor isn't exactly a big shot in my book, but it seems I have my work cut out for me."
"Well, I should hope you're not going to sit around all day and do nothing," Claude says. "I mean, you make Hilda look like an active participant!"
Hilda frowns at that. "Hey, at least I wasn't causing chaos like you two," she says. "You and Lorenz need to act like big boys and get over whatever noble feud you have."
Claude laughs, and Lorenz remains unmoved.
I fold my arms. "She's got a point, you know."
"My apologies, Professors," Lorenz says with a short bow. "I speak for Claude and myself when I say that we did not mean to distract from the day's lesson plan. We shall redouble our efforts this afternoon, and in the coming days."
"I'm glad to hear that," Byleth says. "Now, is there something you all needed?"
Without waiting for either of his classmates, Lorenz launches into his grievances. "Yes, I wished to have a word with the Assistant Professor, if I may. I aim to furnish upon you that advice I was speaking of earlier."
"Oh, this'll be good," Claude mutters, barely audible.
"You may," I reply.
"Keep it brief," Byleth says. "I'm hungry."
"I would not dare keep you from a well-earned repast, so I will not tarry,'' he begins. "Assistant Professor Harrison, even if you do not wish to admit such, your position is of considerable importance to the monastery and the Academy, and you ought to comport yourself as such."
So much for brief. I furrow my brow. "What are you saying?" I ask.
"If you are to aid Professor Byleth in her endeavors here, then you must represent the Church, and our house, with dignity and distinction," Lorenz says. "Your attire should reflect that. After all, you will surely struggle to earn the respect of the heirs of nobility teaching in a laborer's garb." He gestures to my outfit.
I nod. He has a point, even if he's being a dick. "Seteth says he's going to give me some money to buy a new set of clothes."
Lorenz smiles. "Splendid!" he says. "It would be natural for you to be unaccustomed to purchasing fine clothing, so I shall accompany you to select something becoming of your new role."
Somehow, Lorenz is way more terrifying when he's trying to be helpful, rather than if he just told me to fuck off because I'm a commoner or something.
"I appreciate the offer, Lorenz, but I couldn't trouble you to do that," I say. An idea pops into my head. "Actually, I was thinking of asking someone else for help, so, don't worry about it."
"And whom are you considering?" he asks.
"Dorothea," I reply.
"Ah, Miss Arnault," Lorenz says. "Were I in your position, I might rethink that choice. Miss Arnault is certainly lovely, but commoners are so often woefully uninformed on aesthetic matters."
"Uh, Lorenz?" Claude says. "You realize both Teach One and Teach Two are commoners, right?"
"I am aware," Lorenz replies, then turns to me and Byleth. "I mean neither of you any insult. The fact of the matter is that a commoner's emphasis on practicality so often precludes the finer points of fashion."
"Practicality," Claude repeats, almost snorting. "Teach One's got her belly wide open, all but begging for a knife through it."
I mean, he's got a point.
"Oh, and don't get me started on those tights," Hilda says. "It's a miracle they haven't ripped yet! You might need a makeover too, Professor Byleth. But not one from Lorenz." She turns back to her classmate.
Byleth just shrugs off their critiques.
"I know you two mean to vex me, but I will not be deterred," he replies. "Assistant Professor Harrison, I appeal to you plainly. A simple glance at my visage is enough to make obvious my refined tastes. I insist on providing you with my expertise so that your new wardrobe may be of a similar splendor."
I look to Claude and Hilda for help—both look like they're trying to hold in a laugh, with Claude doing better than Hilda.
"Well, I don't think Harrison would want to look like he's copying your style, Lorenz," Hilda says. "Right?"
I nod a little too enthusiastically. "Yes, exactly," I reply.
"So, I don't mind helping," Hilda says. "I've got an eye for fashion, if I do say so myself."
Lorenz opens his mouth to reply, but Hilda raises a hand.
"And trust me, I've got all the noble sensibilities you could want. I've been picking my brother's outfits for the better part of a decade, alright?"
Lorenz nods. "I suppose I ought to have confidence in Lord Holst's personal clothier. I leave this to you, Hilda," he says. "Very well. I will be departing for the dining hall. Claude, Hilda, you will join me, yes?"
"Go on ahead without us," Claude says. "We'll catch up in a few."
The Gloucester heir gives a short bow before turning away and leaving.
When he's gone, I take a deep breath and shake my head. "Thanks for the save, Hilda," I reply.
Claude snickers and turns to Hilda. "Are you actually planning on helping him out? Or were you just messing with Lorenz? It's unlike you to actually do something."
Hilda folds her arms. "I meant what I said," she says. "Say what you want, Claude, but it's just work I don't like doing. Picking out clothes? Going shopping? That's fun, not work."
"That would explain your lack of enthusiasm towards your assignments," Byleth says dryly.
Hilda laughs nervously. "Oh, Professor, I didn't mean it like that," she says, and turns to me. "But seriously—this weekend, let's go into town and go shopping, alright? Bring Dorothea along if you want, too."
I nod. "Thanks, Hilda," I say. "So did either of you need something, or were you just staying after to chat? I think I heard Professor Byleth's stomach growl somewhere in that mess."
Byleth nods.
"Yeah, well, when I saw Lorenz walk up here, I just wanted to see what kind of nonsense he was going to subject you both to," Claude says.
"You just don't know when to leave it alone," Hilda says, sighing. "Anyway, we should be on our way, Claude. See you later, Professors!"
The two gather their things and leave Byleth and I alone in the classroom.
The Professor and I look at each other, and, almost at the same time, take a very deep breath.
"It's time for lunch," she announces.
Byleth leads me out of the classroom and around a side entrance to the dining hall. I've occasionally seen the professors or important-looking church officials head around this area, but never been there myself. I guess eating in the faculty dining hall comes part and parcel with my promotion.
The dining experience at the regular wing of the dining hall was already rather nice, but this is another level. The room is notably smaller, with round tables of varying sizes as opposed to the long tables in the other. Several are occupied—mostly by church leaders, clearly identified by their elaborate blue vestments decorated with silver and gold, and officers of the knights in their armor. Most of them give Byleth and I—or maybe just me—bemused stares as we walk to take our seat. I definitely don't look the part, even if I am allowed to be here. Well, to be honest, I still don't know if I'm allowed to be here.
Even so, Byleth and I go up to get food. I opt for the Daphnel stew, while Byleth selects the grilled herring. As we walk back to our seats, Byleth shows me to a side table, where there's coffee, tea, and surprisingly enough, a selection of bottles of wine. I glance around the room and notice that several of the regulars are enjoying a glass of wine with their meal. I certainly don't know the etiquette for dining among the rich and powerful, but it seems that's acceptable here. Anyway, I happily take some coffee while Byleth opts for tea, and we sit back down and begin our meals.
"What did you think of the class?" Byleth asks.
I chuckle. "They're certainly a spirited group," I reply.
"I meant the lesson," Byleth says. "Though we can discuss the students more later."
"Oh, right. The lesson."
"I have been trying to put your advice into practice," she explains. "Asking them questions. Letting them speak. But it does not always seem to work."
I take a breath. I can't tell her that I might've made a mistake—for several reasons—in giving her that advice. "Well, in some ways, you're doing a good job," I begin. "But opening things up more to the students can require a firmer, more active hand on your part. You've got to ask questions to guide them, so we don't get as many outbursts and tangents, especially from the likes of Claude and Lorenz."
"I see," Byleth says. "I should not have asked them about Relics, either. That was my fault."
"I mean, from a strictly educational perspective? Yeah, I guess," I reply, giving a sympathetic smile. "But who's to say you can't learn from your students, too?"
Byleth just nods and turns back to her food for a bit.
"Soon, I will have to go teach weapons training for the afternoon," Byleth says. "And tomorrow, we teach the Black Eagles. I need you to think of a way to improve the lesson."
I take a deep breath. "Alright, Professor," I reply. After how things went today, I'm not sure where to start, but it's not like I have a choice. "You know, it's kind of weird to call you Professor, considering I'm not your student. I feel like I need something else to call you."
Byleth just looks at me blankly.
"Maybe 'Boss?'"
"'Boss,'" she repeats. "That's what the Blade Breakers call my father."
"Does that mean you don't like it?" I ask.
"I didn't say that," Byleth says. So Boss it is, then. She reaches into a pocket of her coat and retrieves a key. "This is the key to my office. It's near Hanneman and Manuela's, I think. You can work there, if you like."
She thinks? I consider questioning that, but let it go. I'll find it one way or another, I guess.
"Sure thing," I reply, taking the key from her. "So you'll know where to find me after class, then."
Byleth nods.
It takes some trial-and-error to find Byleth's office, trying the key she gave on one unlabeled door after the other in the hallway by Hanneman and Manuela's offices. But eventually, one gives, and I enter Byleth's office.
It's a fairly small room, with a plain wooden desk, a few chairs, mostly empty bookshelves, and a chest of drawers. I shake my head, thinking of what havoc one of those wrought on my life not even a few weeks ago.
A thick layer of dust blankets the room. I run my finger along the side of the desk, picking up a decent covering of it. That's why Byleth "thinks" she knows where this place is—she hasn't even been here yet.
I sigh. Well, my cleaning days are not entirely behind me, I suppose. I head down the hall to a supply closet and retrieve a soft broom. Right when I'm about to get to work, a voice calls out behind me.
"Harrie! Is that you?"
I turn over my shoulder to see her and Edelgard walking down the hall towards me. Dorothea gives me a wave and a smile.
"Hey, Dorothea, Edelgard. What's going on?" I ask.
"We just wanted to stop by to congratulate the Academy's newest assistant professor," Edelgard says with a small smile.
"Word spreads fast, huh?" I reply. Ostensibly, both of them seem happy, or at least, not displeased at the news. With Dorothea, at least, that much is clear. "Wait a second, don't you two have training right now?"
"We still have a bit of time, right, Edie?" Dorothea asks.
Edelgard shrugs. "If I am late, at least Professor Byleth will know the reason—but I can't say the same for Professor Jeritza, Dorothea." So they asked Byleth about this first—that must be how they knew where to look for me.
Dorothea sighs. "Weapons Training E is the worst. I want to pass it so I can just go back to magic already," she says.
"I'm afraid I won't be much help with weapons training," I say. "Anyway, I appreciate you two coming by to say hi, but if you're pressed for time—is there something you need?"
"Well, we can catch up later, but I've just got to know how you pulled off going from death row to this," Dorothea says.
"It's a bit of a strange situation," I say, and explain it to them, trying to imply without saying too loudly how Rhea just shoved the whole thing onto me. "So, I'm not entirely qualified for this job, but here we are." That's understating it, to say the least.
"You helped me out with that thunder spell the other day," Dorothea says. "You've got what it takes to be a teacher, Harrie."
"Thanks for the encouragement," I reply.
"You must be doubly disappointed that Professor Byleth chose the Golden Deer now, huh, Edie?" Dorothea asks.
Edelgard doesn't say anything for a moment and just fidgets with her glove.
"We're still going to be working with your house," I explain. "So it's not like this is the last you'll see of me, or of Professor Byleth."
"Yes, that's right," Edelgard says, quickly regaining her composure. "Though we will make you regret your choice, come the next mock battle."
I smile. "Well, you'll have to take that up with the boss lady. She picked the Deer before I was in the picture."
"Or maybe the Deer were picked for her, given what you and Edie got up to in getting rid of the last professor," Dorothea says. "You two replacing him, and Claude having a hand in it—is this fate? Destiny? Whatever it is, it's simply poetic."
"I don't put much stock in such superstitions, myself," Edelgard says.
Dorothea laughs. "You're always so dramatic, Edie. I love it."
Edelgard sighs.
"Oh, by the way, Dorothea, I need your help with something," I begin. "At some point I need to get a new wardrobe now that I'm technically with the faculty. Seteth's going to give me some money upfront sometime soon to do just that. And I don't know a whole lot about fashion, so I was wondering—"
"If I would lend you some of my expertise?" she says, beaming. "Of course, Harrie! Just let me know where and when."
"Thanks," I reply. "Just a heads up, Hilda already volunteered for the job, too. But between you and me, a duke's only daughter might not have the sense of budget that we're looking for."
"Tell me about it," Dorothea says, rolling her eyes. "Don't worry, I've got you covered."
Edelgard clears her throat. "This shopping trip sounds lovely, but I think we should be going to training now."
"Oh, right," Dorothea says. "Alright then. I suppose we'll see you bright and early tomorrow, Harrie."
"Yes, you will," I reply. "I'm looking forward to it."
Edelgard nods. "As am I, Assistant Professor."
Am I looking forward to it?
Well, if I don't figure out the new plan, I won't. Now it's time to get down to business. I give the place a cursory clean, so I can actually use the office, and then go through the drawers and shelves. There's really not a lot here: blank notebooks and ink, a few loose brass coins. On the bookshelf, there are a few books, actually. They're military history books, with titles like Legend and History of the War of Heroes; Between Dagda and Almyra: Fódlan's Outside Threats; Battles of the War of the Eagle and Lion, and so on.
A plan for how to fix today's lesson starts coming to mind. I could go to the library and try to find some material that directly relates to the topic at hand in the abstract. But I'd rather avoid Solon—Tomas—if I can, and besides, what Lorenz and Claude were arguing about got me thinking about historical battles. Even though Hanneman's class is the one ostensibly about history, I still think using a specific historical example could help a lot in keeping the class more on track, especially if we focus less on the historical context and more on the details of a battle and the tactics used to win it.
I push past Why The Alliance Won: A History of the Crescent Moon War and go for a book whose title doesn't ring any bells from the game itself: The War for the Adrestian Succession. If I'm going to be teaching, I might as well use the opportunity to learn something completely new, too.
I spend a few minutes just flipping through the first chapter to get an idea of what the "War for the Adrestian Succession" even was, considering I don't think the game mentioned it at all. It's pretty much what it sounds like. Emperor Agnes I, the fourth Adrestian Emperor, inherited the throne in the Imperial year 125 and at the ripe age of 23, when her father died due to an unexpected and sudden illness. Her cousin, Rupert von Hresvelg, challenged her claim to the throne, under the pretext that women were not eligible to be Emperor. His power base was concentrated in the north reaches of the Empire, with the newly-created Bishop of the Western Church supporting Rupert, claiming that Emperors should be men and Archbishops women, in the grand tradition of Wilhelm and Seiros. Anyway, as things tend to, it got violent. And that's what I'm here for: battles.
I flip through the book until I come to a printed diagram—a map, apparently of the "Copper Pass" in the County of Hevring, and the battle that took place there in 127. Patterns on the map indicate the terrain, from sharp stretches of peaks to heavily forested foothills, and the road through the pass. Other symbols, helpfully elucidated through a legend at the side of the page, show the movement of the military units, both Agnes's and Rupert's, with different signs for infantry, ranged, cavalry, and magic battalions (no fliers here, for one reason or another).
Agnes's archers and mages took up positions in the mountains, with regular infantry blocking the pass. Rupert mostly used cavalry, which, the accompanying narration on the opposite page makes clear, didn't work out too well. Earlier in the war, it explains, Rupert's cavalry won several key victories. The force of their charges had routed Imperial infantry legions and magic corps, the old Empire's pride and joy, in pitched battles on open terrain like those often fought in the War of the Heroes. Agnes and her generals learned from these defeats, took advantage of her cousin's hunger for blood and glory, and lured his cavalry divisions into the rough terrain. The narrow pass restricted and limited the movements of Rupert's knights, which were all but useless against the Imperial columns of armored pikemen and halberdiers, and they were beset by ranged attackers. The result was a decisive victory for Agnes and her loyalists, and a turning point in the War for the Adrestian Succession.
This might work. Both the unit types and what weapons they were using mattered, and how those units were used given the conditions of the battlefield were crucial in Agnes's victory. It feels a little too easy that I was able to turn the first battle I saw into a teachable example—but then, if weapon choice is so fundamental and critical to success on the battlefield, any battle's outcome should in part be attributable to it.
I busy myself by practicing summoning the magic circle more, not quite daring to apply Fire glyphs and burn down the office I've just been given access to.
When Byleth eventually returns, she steps inside the office and takes a look around.
"Oh, hey, Boss," I say as she sits down across from me. It's weird that I'm sitting behind the desk, but I was here first, I guess. "How was training?"
"Fine," she says. She looks around once again. "I haven't been inside here before. Was it this empty when you entered?"
"Pretty much," I reply. "A lot dustier, though. I took care of that."
"Thank you," she says. "If you want, you can use this office all the time. It can be yours."
I furrow my brow. "But don't you need an office?"
"No," she says flatly. "I have a desk in my room. I can do work in the classrooms," she continues, "and I plan to give you most of the paperwork, anyway."
I sigh. "Well, that makes sense," I reply, mustering up a smile. "I graciously accept your offer, then."
"Good," she says. "Have you come up with a better lesson plan for tomorrow?"
I walk her through my idea about the Battle of the Copper Pass, and why I think it could be a good teaching example. "But it's up to you," I say when I'm finished. "I really don't know anything about battle, so if you don't like it, we don't have to do it."
"I like it," Byleth says. "Let's try it tomorrow."
Well, that settles that.
"One more thing," she says. "Since you don't know anything about battle, I think I should teach you to use a weapon. Rhea and Seteth may send us on dangerous missions. You should be able to handle yourself in a fight."
Now my tongue gets caught in my throat for a moment. If I'm hearing this right, I'm going to have to go on missions, too?
"If you say so, Boss," I reply. "I'm just warning you. I really don't know anything about fighting. I mean I know a little magic, but I've never held a weapon in my life." Assuming archery at summer camp doesn't count, that is.
"Even skilled mages should practice hand-to-hand combat," she explains. "You still should be able to defend yourself if you run out of stamina to power your magic. And, as you have studied from preparing the lesson, magic is not always the best tool at your disposal."
"That's true," I say.
Byleth nods. "I sense you are nervous. But I believe that you will benefit from studying a bit of swordplay," she says. "You will have much less to fear if you have confidence in your arm and a good sword at your side."
Even I can't argue with that.
We head to the training grounds, with the sun just beginning to set as we arrive. Many of the students and knights are heading out, which will hopefully make it much less embarrassing when Byleth teaches me to fight.
She hands me a wooden training sword. It's pretty light, and I comfortably settle into gripping it with one hand. Byleth takes one for herself. "Let's begin," she says. "Start with your stance. You are left-handed, so watch my stance and mirror it."
I don't know if she realized I was a lefty earlier, or just noticed it now when I grabbed the sword with my left hand, but it's pretty impressive she caught on earlier. Usually it's only other lefties who can pick you out.
Byleth moves to stand next to me. She puts her right foot in front, with her legs about shoulder width apart, and her upper body sort of hanging a little bit—but her shoulders squarely facing forward. I do my best to copy her, only flipped, with my left foot in front. Byleth breaks her stance to evaluate mine, corrects me on some details—I'm leaning too much to the back and not facing straight on ahead—but it's a quick fix before it's satisfactory.
"Now grip the sword in one hand, and raise it above your head," she says, demonstrating herself, with her off hand supporting the first. The blade is facing towards the direction of the opponent. "From this position, you can watch your opponent's movements. This is very important—take your eyes off your opponent for a moment and it all may be lost."
I do as she says, and she gives an approving nod. "Now, from this position, you can launch cuts or parries from either side." She slices diagonally downwards from the left, recovers her guard, then does the same from the right.
Now it's my turn. I cut diagonally from left to right, keeping my arm outstretched. I feel awkward, unstable. I feel foolish and weak.
Byleth doesn't say anything, and I look away bashfully.
"Keep your eyes on the opponent," Byleth repeats.
"Sorry," I reply, mustering up the strength to meet her eyes once again. "I know I'm not doing it right."
"Are you ashamed?" she asks.
I bite my lip, not saying anything.
"The only shame is in dying," she says. "If you want to learn not to die, then try again. Keep your shoulders square and your stance firm."
I give it another shot, and I feel a little more grounded, but I just can't help but feel like I'm doing nonsense with my arms. Is this actually supposed to hurt anyone?
"Swing your sword with purpose," Byleth says. "With confidence and power."
I take a deep breath. Purpose, confidence, and power. The memory of being dragged away in chains as a criminal, awaiting a miscarriage of justice, flashes through my mind. It unlocks something within me. I didn't give in and give up then, even when I was physically powerless. And now I can do more, be more. I may not have much of any of those three things, but I know what it is to have none, and as long as Byleth's here, I'll be damned if I go back there without putting up a fight.
One more time, I attempt the cut. My arms feel more solid, my shoulders poised. I feel stronger.
"Excellent," she says. "Now recover to a lower guard—think of where the blade of your sword is, then turn it to face the enemy —" she shows the movements as she talks "—and then cut back along the same line."
It takes me a few tries to get the hang of it—a downward cut, recovering, and then an upward cut—but it's not difficult at all.
"You don't need to link the first cut to the second," she explains, "but it is a useful way to train. And the technique can be effective if it catches the enemy off guard."
"I see," I reply.
"Now let's do a basic block, and we'll call it a night," she says. "If someone comes to cut at you, hold out your sword and catch the enemy's blade." She demonstrates blocking against an imaginary opponent, but without seeing how she meets the attack, it's not much help, unfortunately. "Just try it. I'm going to come and swing at you."
I take a deep breath. "Alright. Here goes."
Byleth nods. "Ready?"
I nod.
She steps forward, swings at me and I raise my sword to meet hers. They collide with a sharp thud. "Back," she instructs. "You shouldn't bring your blade to mine. Let me come to you, and use your sword to create a line that protects your body."
She attacks again, and this time I just try to catch her sword as it closes into mine—maintaining that line parallel to my chest, stopping her from moving forward.
"Better," Byleth says. "Keep your arms straight. Straight arms are strong arms. That's what my father taught me."
We practice a few more times, and each time I feel stronger and more confident than before. Byleth's training really is something.
"That's enough for tonight," she says. "We've already made good progress."
"I'm glad to hear it," I reply. "Sorry if I was—"
"Don't apologize," she interrupts. "I offered to teach you."
"Oh. Right," I say, carefully avoiding sorry once again. "Time for dinner?" I ask.
Byleth shakes her head. "You go on ahead if you want. I'm going to go visit my father."
I nod. "Alright then, Boss," I say. "I'll see you tomorrow, then."
"That's right."
As we return our training swords to the proper locations, I wonder what Dimitri would think of me now that I've picked up one for the very first time.
The next day is the Black Eagles, and I'm feeling simultaneously a lot more confident and a lot more nervous. More confident because Byleth and I actually have a plan, one that I quite like, and that we won't have Claude and Lorenz's antics to contend with today. But on the other hand, there's Edelgard…
I get to the classroom even before Byleth. As we planned, I set to work transcribing the battle diagram from the textbook to one of the two chalkboards for the benefit of the whole class. She joins me soon after, gathering her notes at the podium.
The first student to arrive is Ferdinand. Despite his noble heritage, he doesn't prove to be as difficult as Lorenz—Byleth introduces us, and a look of recognition crosses Ferdinand's face. "Oh, we have met briefly, have we not?"
"Yes," I reply. "The preparations for the New Years' festival."
"Ah, of course," he says. "And you were the one who Edelgard defended—the one who was accused by the former Professor?"
This conversation does feel like an eerie repeat of my interaction with Lorenz, but Ferdinand's tone comes off less prying and pointed, and more genuinely curious. "That's right," I tell him.
Ferdinand nods. "It is a noble deed for even the Imperial princess to come to the aid of a commoner under duress," he says. "It heartens me to have you with us now, Assistant Professor, and I look forward to working with you this year."
"Likewise."
I turn back to putting the finishing touches on the map. As I'm writing the location and date, Edelgard enters the classroom with her usual poise and confidence, and with Hubert following at her heels. Speak of the devil, and she doth appear.
"Good morning, Edelgard, Hubert," I say as they take their seats. Byleth regards them with a nod.
"Good morning, Professors," Edelgard replies. She glances over to the board as I dust off my chalk-covered hands. "The Battle of the Copper Pass, hm? An interesting choice of discussion topic."
"Harrison picked it out, actually," Byleth says.
Hey now, Byleth. You don't get to push this on your lovely assistant if it all goes horribly wrong. "I found it in a book on military history," I say with a shrug. "I thought it might be a good way to discuss different weapon types, and how the types of units that use them, the ways that they're used, and the conditions under which they're used affect the outcome of a battle."
Byleth just nods emphatically.
Edelgard's piercing violet eyes flit from Byleth to me, as if she's trying to evaluate my response and Byleth's endorsement of it. Or perhaps she's trying to find some hidden meaning in choosing a battle fought by her ancestor.
"Consider my interest piqued," she says. "I've studied the battles of Agnes's War, but the rest of the class may not be as familiar with the details of early Adrestian military history. I am curious to see how they take it."
"Fear not, Edelgard! I would dare not forget this battle," Ferdinand says, beaming.
Hubert puts his head in his hands.
"The Battle of the Copper Pass was fought by our forebears side by side!" he explains. "Agnes I took command of the Imperial mages, while my ancestor, Derrick von Aegir himself, led the Imperial armored infantry blocking the pass. What a formidable pair, the Warrior Prime Minister and the Architect of the Empire herself! Why—"
"Let's save the details for Hanneman's history lectures, shall we?" Edelgard says, and Ferdinand complies readily. She turns back to Byleth and I. "I would imagine our professors want to focus on the tactics and strategy that our ancestors employed to win the day."
The rest of the students start filing in. First, Dorothea and Petra, with Caspar and Linhardt joining after. Bernadetta just sort of popped up at her seat at some point in there, evading what I thought was my careful monitoring of the door.
Once the class is settled in, Byleth calls the group to attention, and gives the same little introduction that she gave about me before. I play my part, and then, our second lecture begins in earnest.
"Let's begin. Last class, we discussed weapon types," Byleth says, walking over to the second, empty blackboard. She turns back to the class. "Let's see what you remember. Can anyone tell me one of the weapon types?"
Hands shoot up—Ferdinand, Edelgard, Dorothea, Petra, and Caspar. Byleth calls on each of them in turn, contributing an example of a weapon or magic type that Byleth adds to the list on the blackboard: Lances, axes, black magic, swords, and gauntlets.
"Linhardt?" Byleth asks. "Are you still with us?"
Linhardt gives a nod as he suppresses a yawn.
"Do you have anything to contribute?"
"I suppose some white magic spells can be used offensively," he says, before slumping back into his seat.
"Good," Byleth says, adding it to the board. "Bernadetta?"
I hear a sound resembling a squeak as Bernadetta covers her face with her book. "Professor, it wasn't me, I promise! I didn't—"
"Bernadetta," Byleth says, "there's nothing wrong—"
"Oh, I knew I should have just stayed in my room today and said I was sick—"
Edelgard turns and opens her mouth to say something, but Dorothea, who's sitting in between Bernadetta and Petra, beats her to it. "Hey, Bern," she says. "It's going to be okay. Just take a deep breath. Do it for me?"
Bernadetta inhales with all the force of a vacuum cleaner.
"Now breathe out," Dorothea says. "Slowly."
Bernadetta exhales.
"The Professor was asking if you knew a type of weapon other than the ones already on the board."
"Oh, um… bows? Right?"
"Very good, Bernadetta," Byleth says. "Thank you."
With a relieved sigh, Bernadetta almost curls back into her seat, and Dorothea and Edelgard exchange a glance and an understanding nod.
"Now that we are clear on the types of weapons," Byleth continues, "you will note that some of these weapons—" she ticks off swords, lances, axes, and gauntlets "—are best used at close range, while bows and magic are better used from a distance. That difference is important because battles are decided by how well leaders use melee and ranged tactics together, while thinking about the types of units they're using and the conditions of the battlefield."
She pauses for a breath.
"And thanks to Harrison researching the Battle of the Copper Pass, we have a good example that will help make all that make more sense."
Some of the students turn to me with a curious look, and I just give an awkward smile and wave. Byleth didn't need to give me credit for it, but I suppose that tells you just the kind of person she is—sweet and well-meaning, but doesn't think it through all the way.
She summarizes the most important information about the battle, and walks the students through the sequence of events using the diagram I've drawn as an aid.
"Now, let's discuss how all the things we've talked about—the weapon types, how they were used, and so on, helped decide the outcome here. Anyone have any ideas?"
Byleth calls on Petra first. "The mountains would give the cavalry much difficulty to be riding around," she says. "The Emperor Agnes's foot soldiers were using the terrain with keenness, like hunters cornering prey."
"Very good," Byleth says. "The types of units that Rupert was using were not best suited to the conditions of the battlefield. What else?"
Ferdinand's next, predictably raising his hand with enthusiasm to spare. "It was their choice of weapons that also played a part," he says. "My ancestor and Emperor Agnes deployed a balanced combination across the weapon types you have suggested—infantry with melee weapons, archers, and mages working together."
"Also true," Byleth says. "See how that is connected to what Petra said. The Imperial army was able to take the most advantage of the terrain because they used both ranged and melee attackers together and gave them the best positioning."
"Hey, Professor," Caspar says, raising his hand. "I've got a question."
Byleth nods, and he continues.
"So, all this talk about weapons had me thinking," he begins. "I've heard of this thing called the weapon triangle, that swords beat axes and axes beat lances and lances beat swords. I know it's just something people say, but is it real?"
"There may be some truth to it in a one-on-one battle," Byleth explains. "But much depends on how the wielder uses their weapon. It isn't a hard rule."
"So would the weapon triangle be part of why Rupert lost? Lances are no good against axes, yeah?"
Byleth turns to me. "Harrison, do you want to try answering? You may be more suited to this since you found the book in the first place."
Fuck, Byleth. All eyes in the class are on me now. But what can I say? She does have a point. "I'll do my best," I reply.
First things first, I need to buy a little time to recap my thoughts. I nod and begin. "Alright, so let's think this through. First, remember that the Imperial infantry had a lot of spearmen, too." My eyes drift from Caspar's direction to Edelgard's. She nods ever so slightly, which I take as an encouraging sign as I look back to Caspar. "So it doesn't matter whether the cavalry charge has axes or lances or swords—if you're blocked off by a row of spear points in tight formation, there's not much your knights can do. I'm no expert, but it seems to me like with everything else, the weapon triangle you're talking about depends on the circumstances of the battle."
Byleth nods. "Yes, thank you, Harrison," she says. "Does that answer your questions, Caspar?"
"Yeah, that makes a lot of sense," he replies. "Thanks, Professor!"
I quietly exhale as the students focus on Byleth once more.
Things go on for a little longer, with students asking questions and Byleth encouraging them to think more deeply. Then, Byleth asks them one very important question that we settled on yesterday: "If you were Rupert, what would you have done differently?" Byleth calls on each student in turn as an animated discussion develops.
"Bring air support," Caspar suggests.
"A good idea," Byleth says. "But is there a problem with that?"
"Agnes's archers would shoot them down," Ferdinand points out.
"And how could that be solved?"
"I would send raiding parties in the mountains to come down on the archers with swiftness and surprise," Petra says.
"And then you could make way for the fliers," Dorothea adds.
Byleth nods. "Excellent suggestions, everyone," she says. "What else?"
"Rupert may have had better luck dismounting," Edelgard says.
"Or bringing along a complement of mounted archers," Ferdinand suggests.
The discussion keeps chugging along, until Byleth stops everyone for a moment. "Bernadetta," she says. "You've been very quiet this whole time."
"Um, Professor, I was just listening to you all talk!" Bernadetta says.
"That's good," byleth replies. "Listening is important. But if you've been listening and paying attention, do you have any ideas? What would you do differently if you were Rupert?"
Bernadetta gives a nervous laugh. "Well, uh, I would, you know, run away?" Before Byleth says anything, she puts her head in her hands. "Stupid, stupid Bernie, you know that's not the right answer—"
"It's a very good answer, actually," Byleth says.
Bernadetta looks up, and her jaw drops.
"It's a good answer because in these conditions, the odds are stacked against Rupert," Byleth explains. "Many think that retreating to fight another day is dishonorable. But sometimes it is the best choice to save the lives of the people under your command. And it was not making that calculation that cost Rupert the battle, and in the end, maybe the war."
The bell rings, and class ends.
"Your assignment is now to read on unit types and compositions," Byleth says. "I think our discussion today will help you understand why these are important to consider."
As the students gather their things together and prepare to go to lunch, I take another deep breath.
That went a lot better the second time around.
A/N: Thanks for being patient, everyone, this chapter took a while to get just right! Thanks to TDB and Syntaxis for beta reading. We haven't heard much from Syn (though we have confirmation she is still kicking), so I'll give you two out-of-context TDB quotes: "Nearly every girl I've ever dates has had large chunks of ice attached to her wrists and ankles" and "I guess that makes me specifically a Catholic waifu." No relation between the two, of course.
In other news, I got some valid critique on the last chapter with respect to Rhea's dialogue, and so I made a very small change that I think addresses where the disconnect was coming from. It doesn't change the message or impact of the scene at all so there's no need to go back and reread it if you don't feel like it, it's just a minor wording change. I also changed the spelling of Harrison's last name because... well, there's some personal reasons for that. I hope these changes don't ultimately break your suspension of disbelief. But I just wanted to make this clear so no one feels like they're being gaslit. Thanks for bearing with that, everyone.
And as always, thanks to everyone for the reviews, favorites, and follows!
Come hang out on our Discord server with TDB and Syn and me: discord . gg / A27Ngyj (remove spaces). I can also be found occasionally at the Fanfiction Treehouse server, discord . gg / 9XG3U7a - Hope to see you guys around!
Review responses:
V01dSw0rd - Interesting thoughts. Thanks for the review!
Quzix - Fair enough, haha. Thanks for reading!
Takedo - Interesting hypothesis! Thanks for reading!
Axel363402 - I mean, would you feel that way if Byleth was male and the lines remained unchanged? Honestly, I'm not trying to write interactions to suggest ships yet, so it's certainly not my goal, haha.
Tincanman123 - I mean, it's a song about revolution, and whether you think she's justified or not, Edelgard is the harbinger of a revolution, so it fits. As for what you say about where the fic might be going, those are interesting ideas. Stay tuned and thanks for reading!
patattack - Thank you so much!
Steelrain66 - Hey, that funny feeling means I've been doing my job foreshadowing and setting things up. Thanks for reading!
Jeptwin - Thank you for reviewing! I think it's a bit early for Harrison to be hitting B-supports with anyone, but then, that's part of the problem with the whole support conversation framework for real-life interactions right? I'm just curious, what are your suspicions about what Jeralt will think of him?
MethodicalMadness27 - Thanks for reading! I'm glad to hear you are enjoying the story. Not sure if this assuages your concerns, but let me say this. I completely understand where you're coming from. There's too many interesting characters who deserve tons of exploration and development, but I don't have the time to get to all of them in the appropriate depth, while keeping the story paced appropriately. Therefore I don't plan to get into depth with every single character, and I hope that those decisions about what to prioritize ultimately helps, not hurts, the story.
Socialism - Haha, voluntold is a good way to put it. Thanks for reading!
Telepath98 - Thank you so much! Don't worry, there are plenty of stakes to come!
iwantmyburd - Hey, thank you for sticking with me this far! I hope the rest of the story lives up to your expectations! And yes, Byleth is oblivious, but she wouldn't be Byleth without that.
Annoying POW marine - Thanks for reading, and I'm glad you enjoyed it!
King Keith - Thanks for reviewing! I'm glad to hear you are enjoying the story. Yes, what I wrote in the story about my teaching experience is true and real, actually, so it's a lot of fun to implement that in the fic. I understand why people have concerns about revealing that the main character is from Earth, and I hope so far I've handled it well in the story. I feel like the opposite extreme, where no characters ever learn the truth (or don't until the end of the story), isn't really to my preference either, so hopefully I strike some kind of balance here. Thanks again for reading!
Howling Armadillo - Hey, thanks for the honest feedback. I hope my missteps with Rhea weren't too immersion-breaking. Thanks for reading!
Hello I am Username - Thank you for the detailed review! I don't think you have any reason to worry about the path ending up too similarly to the canonical ones. As far as we've seen, plot-wise Professor Goneril ended up with a similar outcome, but there may be more effects down the line, and that's not even considering how the incident has affected the character dynamics among the main cast. My point is just that we have a long way to go so strap yourself in and enjoy the ride! Thanks a lot for reading and I hope you enjoy what's coming!
DemonRaily - He also needs to worry about not being killed before the timeskip, haha! Thanks for reading!
Cavik - Interesting thoughts - you'll have to read more to find out where those dynamics go. Anyway, thanks for the review!
Caellach Tiger Eye - Hey, I know we've communicated by PM already, but it's good to see a review from you. Thanks for reading and looking forward to hearing from you again soon!
Everpeach - Ship what? Harrison and Byleth?
Paragondor - Glad to hear you are enjoying the fic! Rhea sure is a lot to handle, isn't she?
Stormtide Leviathan - I was just an intern, not an actual teacher, so you can have a little Vygotsky as a treat. Thanks for reading!
Cavik - The criticism about Rhea is noted. Thanks for reading!
cj1of4 - An interesting suggestion! Like I've said in other review responses, there are a lot of characters to get to and I won't have time to explore them all in great detail - that's not to say we won't get to Dedue at all, but just be patient. Thanks for reviewing!
Izayoi de Cisne - Thanks for the review! Wow, I'm also surprised that you've found the fic and read it this far despite not having any knowledge of the game! You may want to learn more about the canonical plot before passing judgement on what you expect or think Harrison should do. But in any case, glad you're here!
Remvis - Whoops! I'm sorry I missed your review. I'm glad you enjoyed both chapters. Interesting thoughts with regards to the potential of Edelgard and Harrison working together, especially considering Harrison's new role - but I won't say more than that, you'll have to keep reading to find out what goes down, but you're definitely asking the right kinds of questions! And, as for the chapter 12 review, even if Rhea would rather not give Harrison a second thought, Byleth gets what she wants in her world. Thanks for reading and reviewing!
Cuetlachtzin - Thanks for reading! It would be a little too boring if everything went well for Harrison and Byleth, wouldn't it?
CaptainSidekick - Thanks for the review! It's great to hear you're enjoying the fic so much!
Nickname - Thanks for the review. Yes, this was mentioned previously - definitely in Chapter 3, at least.
Guest - Thanks a lot! Glad you enjoyed the chapter.
KingdomDone - Thank you so much! Honestly, I don't think I have any special talent, just some practice and some excellent beta readers.
heavenschoir - Yeah, that's... not going to happen.
2010si - Well, it wouldn't be fun if it didn't at least almost blow up in his face one way or another, right? Thanks for the review!
Ramax Viscurio - Thanks for the review! First, if I were you, I might not be so sure I knew where the plot was going... we have a lot of ground to cover yet. As for Rhea, I'm sorry you think it's shallow, but "anti-science" and "secretive" are canonically things she is. "Evil" is something of a subjective question that I don't really want to get into right now. And of course, her motives and reasons for acting the way she does is what makes Rhea an interesting and compelling character, but it's not like she's going to open up to Harrison now or anything. So we only really see one side of her. I hope that explains why I write her the way I do.
Salazar1537 - Thank you for the review! Interesting thoughts with respect to Byleth, but keep in mind that Harrison is only one of many potential influences on her decisions. Will he meet Jeralt? You'll have to keep on reading to find out!
Caelum Est Finis - Wow, I'm always surprised when people read and follow the story despite not having played the game! As for modern inventions, I'll be honest, I don't intend for it to be a real focus of the fic, but I won't say none of it will happen, either. Thank you for reading and reviewing!
Nox Deus - Well, to be honest, if you don't like reading a story from the perspective of a character who has a modern sense of morality, this probably isn't the fic for you. Nothing wrong with that, but to me that's an important part of what makes self-inserts interesting, the clash between the SI and the setting, and it's not something I intend to sideline anytime soon. In any case, thanks for reading!
Guest - Thank you so much! It's so flattering to hear that you think my writing is of the same caliber as a professional's.
bulk Locke the the grim head - Thanks for reading! Honestly, I don't even know my own plans for ships yet, so keep reading!