Chapter Thirty-Five
1.
So, the reward for fixing the sauna is exactly something Leonie would want. Unfortunate that it could still get her in trouble with Seteth.
Actually… Seteth would take it easy on her compared to what others might do if they see her with this gift.
The Inexhaustible is a bow made out of material that's some mix of horn, bone, and shell. It is incredibly smooth, flexible, and the recoil doesn't seem that bad. The string will never snap, and it creates arrows if supplied with magic. The uh… only problem…
"Rhea is going to kill me," Leonie whines as she polishes the pretty, pretty bow. Sitting on the ground, her head tilts back until it hits her bed. "Byleth is going to kill me."
Because The Inexhaustible? It's a Sacred Weapon. Saint Indech wielded it. There's an exact replica on his statue in the chapel.
Leonie can never use it.
"You're so beautiful," Leonie tells the bow that's just a bow. Inanimate objects can't talk back. Indy – or should she call him Saint Indech – walked her back to her room. Handed it to her and left with a wink. The a*****e. "I bet you don't even inflict damage to the user. Because you're a real bow, yes you are. Not a Crest Stone stuck in someone's dead body. Isn't that right?"
It probably has bonus effects for the Crest of Indech. If she was a good person, she'd give this to Bernadetta. But Leonie is not a good person. She has attachment and fixation issues when it comes to weapons. How the original Leonie ever let go of this precious is a mystery.
There's a knock at her door. Leonie clutches the bow to her chest, cleaning rag falling to her lap, "Who is it?"
"Claude and Lysithea."
Leonie groans. "Just a moment."
Whispers sweet things to the bow as she puts it away. Tidies her stuff and tries to look like she isn't going through a breakup. Must not work as the first thing Lysithea asks is, "What happened to you?"
"Indy gave me a bow for my help with the sauna," Leonie sniffs. Motions them in. Sighs like a dejected lover. "It's… amazing. Too good for me to use."
"Did you give it back?"
"No way. Just… it's too good, Lysithea. If I show it, the Church won't let me keep it."
"It was a gift, right?" Claude sits on the bed. "They wouldn't be able to take it from you if it's your bow, no matter how nice. Now, if you were experimenting with magic…"
Leonie looks between her friends. Bites her lip as she debates, to explain or not? Lysithea lays out the notes she took, both younger Deer looking more concerned as the silence stretches.
"Fine," Leonie nods to herself. Puts the chair under the door and pulls the drapes. Wards up, and finally stands before her slowly freaking out classmates. "Tell no one."
She pulls out the bow. Claude doesn't get it at first, but Lysithea was raised in Fódlan. Even while being experimented on, this stuff was probably shoved down her throat, "Is that-"
"Yes."
"He gave you-"
"He did."
"Leonie."
"I know."
"Stop," Claude holds up a hand. Serious and growing increasingly more concerned, "What is wrong with the bow?"
"Wrong?" Lysithea gives a strangled laugh. "Nothing. It's perfect. An absolutely perfect replica. Because there is no way that is The Inexhaustible. The bow of legend used by Saint Indech."
"A Sacred Weapon," Claude mutters, fresh gaze on the weapon. And with that – less then a minute of discussion – they've gone over the breakdown Leonie has been having this past hour. Only, they don't seem to connect that it was the Saint that gave her the weapon. Because the Saints are dead, not giant reptiles pretending to be human. "How did he get this?"
"He said he has family with the Church," Leonie tucks the bow out of sight, and Claude doesn't even question the pocket dimension. He's probably in shock too. "They might have given it to him. Or told him to look after it. Who knows. I'm the one with it now. And I can't even use it."
Claude blinks, "Why not?"
"Seriously?" Lysithea demands. Turns and gives Leonie hug. The woman returns it, trying to think of how nice this is rather than the despair of the perfect contraband she'll never be able to show off. "It's okay, Leonie. After the Officer's Academy, you can find some ruins and say you stumbled across it."
Leonie closes her eyes, "Would that really work?"
"I'll go with you. Vouch for your find."
"You're the best, Lysithea."
It's a good plan. Basic, very few flaws. A bit of reading and maybe Leonie can even find Indy's swamp. A year with this precious sitting in her storage is better then a lifetime in a void.
Claude joins the group hug, "Until then, how about I find you a bow you can use? Or, maybe I'll get you a better one! That way you don't have to be sad."
"I'm not sad," Leonie replies on instinct. At least, she doesn't think she's sad. No tight chest, however the world does feel a bit gloomier. "But you're the best too, Claude. I don't know what I'd do without you."
"Starve," Claude replies instantly. "Which was why we're here to begin with. Go over the notes, and then we're all going to dinner."
The laughter spilling from Leonie isn't her standard. It's a bit more hiccup-like then she's used to.
2.
Leonie knows it is coming, but she spends more time reminding herself not all problems can be stabbed away then actually preparing for what might be said or done. So, when Avinna pushes off the wall outside of the band room, Leonie stops. Watches the younger Eagle stomp forward, the teen's hands clenching and unclenching in her anger. The Golden Deer keeps her teeth together and waits, keeping as still as possible as to not end this confrontation with blood.
The woman isn't exactly tall, but she does have some height on Avinna. The teen tries to loom anyways, asking, "What is your relationship with Sylvain?"
Eyebrows shoot up because relationship? Seriously? "We're friendly with each other. Why? What's your deal with him?"
Avinna tries for a haughty laugh, smirk included, "I was the latest to try and make him a real noble heir. But he's made it obvious that success and fortune are not what he wants."
"Isn't he richer then-"
"Oh?" Avinna steps forwards, and then seems to not know what to do when Leonie doesn't step back. This is getting sad. "You're only after him for his money, are you? Path-"
Done with whatever this is, Leonie rolls her eyes and walks around the noble. Avinna lashes out, grabbing and trying to squeeze Leonie's arm, but the main class student doesn't ever let her Faith shield drop. Her smile, however, disappears fast. Leonie knows the shadows on her face make her terrifying as she tilts her head just so, silencing Avinna's words as the side class students loses colour in her fear. "I don't think it's me who's after his money. Right, Avinna?"
Pull the knife out of the boot and stab her-
"What's going on here?"
Leonie's bright, cheery smile is back in place when she turns to greet the adult, "Good morning, Professor Flayn!"
Though looking unsure and slightly oblivious, there's a hard glint in Flayn's eyes. Slowly, the hallway begins to smell of ozone, "Hello, Leonie. Is everything alright?"
Avinna finally drops her hand and steps back. Leonie moves towards the classroom, "Of course, Professor! We're just chatting before class!"
"Oh? Is it about how your groupwork is going?"
"O-oh course," Avinna lies badly. "We were discussing upcoming practice times. Leonie was being uncooperative."
Pausing at the doorway, Leonie casts a look back between student and teacher. Flayn doesn't see it, but Avinna's new hope crushes under how unphased the women are.
"Were you being uncooperative, Leonie," Flayn still doesn't look over at the side class student. It also isn't a question.
Humming, Leonie turns to watch, "I'd like to call it removing myself from being insulted."
Avinna doesn't like that, "I didn't insult you."
"Maybe not," Flayn jumps in, finally turning, "but you did put your hands on her. If you had an issue with a member of my class, you should have brought it to me. Detention with Seteth, Avinna. I will walk you there after class, where all three of us will have a chat about your recent behaviours. Now, everyone, get into the room."
The few students lingering behind Flayn hurry in with Leonie. The Golden Deer catches everyone already in class averting their eyes. Kaveran sneaks a look at Leonie, gulps at being caught, and turns away looking much guiltier than an eavesdropper.
Hope is a dangerous thing, and Leonie doesn't ponder if someone is on her side long enough to let it stick.
3.
"You didn't want to go to the lecture?" Leonie asks.
Across from her, Aurora von Rand, sips the tea and watches the tables around them. It's the time of day that most nobles are on dates or meet-and-greets. Aurora's stopped that for the next few weeks to get into the new hobbies provided by her extra classes. Which means the ladies finally have a chance to catch up. "Only the main class students were actually invited to the lecture."
"Yikes," something to discuss with Jeralt. Or not. However Byleth runs his class is no business of Leonie. "Well, if you ever want to study, I can see about convincing Claude to let you join our library sessions."
"I have seen how the Golden Deer takes over the library. I shall not get into the chaos you all create."
Leonie's laugh is genuine, "Well, if you ever want to enjoy the atmosphere, offer's open. Controlled chaos is better then sudden change."
"Wise words."
"Don't look so shocked! I can be cool when I want to."
"And the moment's gone. Honestly, Leonie, how do you expect to negotiate contracts and make contacts if you cannot be regal for five minutes."
"I'll get by," the world's made sure she had to. "So, what's the real reason you flagged me down today?"
Aurora looks around again. Hands clasp under the table, and her eyes land there, "I have been… considering focusing my efforts into accessory making."
Leonie knows. Vernan is a gossip.
"While not as difficult to find apprenticeships in the Empire as it would be for a noblewoman in the Kingdom… my family would not allow me to keep my noble status and work in an unstable industry."
Grabbing a tiny sandwich, Leonie's getting bored waiting to hear how this is her problem.
Aurora seems to get the hint, "If you could, would you be willing to get me in contact with several figures from your class?"
The woman nibbles, staying silent.
"Please, Leonie."
"Why not ask people yourself?"
"Nerves?" Auror offers with a sad smile. "Your House is much closer with each other then the other Houses are. No matter what it may seem, you and Raphael are known as the easiest to approach. Also, if I ask you to put in a word to contact me, someone will look into it."
"I'm not that popular."
"Maybe not, but I am on better terms with you then Lysithea. I can promise, no matter what you say about my request, our next tea time will only be to catch up with each other. I ask this now because I'm worried my motivation will drop if nothing can be done with my drive."
"Gees," Leonie mutters, debating. It really isn't that hard of a request. Auror is friendly enough. There shouldn't be too many complications if it turns out she's evil or something. "Fine, I'll let everyone in my class know you're interested in accessory making on one condition."
"Oh," Auror loses colour fast, "you don't have to let your whole class know."
"Too bad, it's all or nothing."
"…Fine. What is the condition."
"Tell me why you're looking into the Alliance over Empire or Kingdom. And don't tell me it's because of your family or whatever. I want to hear why you are motivated for Alliance contacts."
A small, real grin comes and goes from the teen's face, "Who would say anything bad about me if I were to create easily reproducible magical accessories? Or if my creations helped those warring on the boarder? I have looked into my options a bit. As of now, there is no place better to learn metal-molding then in the Alliance's wire-smiths."
Interesting. Leonie gets the teen comfortable again talking about Aurora's interest in magical equipment. After they say their goodbyes, the woman pulls out an orange book and writes down the request.
Everyone but Claude and Lysithea agree to meet with the Eagle.
Interesting.
4.
Leonie waves at Claude before moving towards her quarry. Drops her breakfast tray of oatmeal and fruit beside the Lion and wishes her a, "Happy Birthday!"
Mercedes grins, visibly brightening, "Thank you!"
Annette and Ashe watch as the Lion woman gets a heavy, paper wrapped package with string tied around it. Leonie lowly instructs, "Don't open until you're in your room. Took some effort to get and I'd rather it not get, er… well, just better it's not in class with you."
"Is it something Seteth would confiscate?"
"Probably. It's two things, and I'm sure he'd grab them for different reasons," because one is a book on the history of fallen noble houses, and the other is decently written, anatomically correct erotica. "If you don't like them, hand them back and I'll treat you to a meal or two."
"Thank you, Leonie," Mercedes rests the present in her lap. Leans over to hug the other woman. Leonie returns it, laughing when the birthday lady whispers, "You should go see Claude now. He appears ready to tear the room apart."
The Deer doesn't look over when the hug ends, "Best wishes on your birthday, Mercedes. Make sure to relax!" Nods to the others, "Annette, Ashe."
"Bye Leonie!"
"Good day, Leonie."
Claude doesn't look perturbed when she makes her way over. Drops her tray across from him and smiles at his mocking, "Oh? Decided to grace me with your stunning company today, did you?"
"Sorry I didn't warn you at dinner," he was in a heated conversation with Lorenz about Alliance politics. Leonie had a better time discussing children's stories with Ignatz and Raphael. "Hey, your birthday is coming up in a few months, isn't it?"
He rests his chin on a hand, "How'd you remember?"
"You mentioned it before. During prep for Lysithea's? Or maybe that was Hilda was trying to get items for Marianne's birthday. Anyways, I should probably write all of ours in the journal so we don't forget."
"Yours is the month after mine."
Leonie pauses, apple sliced dipped half in the oatmeal. He's not wrong, but she doesn't remember ever saying her birthday out loud. Not since the kids in the village asked years ago. Which, there are some more letters and small presents she should probably send soon to make sure they make it in time. Wait. Focus. Doesn't ask how he knows but shoots him a look, "What do you want for your birthday?"
"World peace and a sword that can cut mountains?"
He's joking, but the woman knows he's also really not joking. Points her spoon at him, "You're lucky you're cute."
Claude chokes on a breath, falling off his hand to laugh, "You think I'm cute."
"Everyone here is unfairly attractive, don't feel special."
"I'm telling Lysithea you said that."
"But Claude," Leonie puts her things down and leans forward, "tell me I'm wrong."
"Have you met Hubert?"
She shrugs, "Some people like dark and brooding. Now, be serious. I can't do world peace in two months, and I don't think the sword would work for you. What else do you want?"
The silence stretches on long enough that she stops blinking to enter a staring contest with him. Claude watches her eat, Leonie's eyebrows rising higher with each swallow. Finally, he asks, "Do you know where the Sword of the Creator is?"
Leonie wins and blinks at him, "Wherever the Goddess' tomb is, right?"
"The Holy Mausoleum?"
"Yah, the place with the big throne."
"What?"
"What? What do you mean 'what'? The room with the big throne, the one that has all those Crest Stones. Place that can only be opened once a year?"
After a moment, Claude seems to have a revelation. The tension seeps out of him. He resumes eating, "How come I know more about the Church lore then you?"
"Wait, what? What do you mean?"
"The Holy Mausoleum is the place that opens once a year. It holds the tomb of the Goddess. The Holy Tomb lies beneath the Monastery. It holds the Crest Stones of ancients sworn to the Goddess."
Leonie puts down her spoon. Puts her head on her hands and stares into the middling distance above her House Leader's head. Could swear she hears dial-up noises as her brain tries to process, "So, wait. The Holy Tomb and the Holy Mausoleum are not the same thing?"
Claude looks way too happy about this, "They are not."
"Huh," the more you know. Maybe Leonie should have spent more time around the Church followers back in the village. Nah. Doesn't matter now, she's not in Byleth's class. One adventure down in the Holy Tomb is already one too many for how little plot she's involved in. Leonie gets back to eating. "So, anyways, yah. Sword's in the Holy Mausoleum."
"Excuse me if I do not believe in your religious knowledge anymore."
"Fine by me. Now, come on. Stop avoiding the question or I'm getting you socks for your birthday."
"Socks?"
"Thick, fuzzy socks. With… kittens! Kitten faces on them!"
"That actually sounds like a nice gift?"
"But it's no fun if you know it's coming! Come on, Claude! What do you want?"
He smiles when she says his name. Puts a foot over her boot under the table, "Come wyvern riding with me."
"…That's it? Okay. Guess I'll need to learn how to ride a wyvern."
"Don't worry. If Manuela does not let you learn by then, you can sit behind me. I am a very experienced rider."
"Oh yah? What's your flying grade?"
"Better then yours."
5.
"What are you doing?!"
Leonie lowers the knife from her head. Drops her hair. Glances over her shoulder, away from the water's reflection, "Hi Hilda, what's wrong?"
"What's wrong?!" the pinkette is still shrieking. "What's wrong is that you're cutting your hair with- oh goddess! Do you always do this?"
"What? Cut my hair? I mean… yah. Or else it would be a lot longer."
"No!" Hilda has to take a few deep breaths. Stomps forward only to gently take Leonie's shoulders, pulling her back from the edge of the dock. "Why aren't you at least using a mirror?"
"Makes cleanup easier if I do it outside?" Hilda releases a dying noise. Leonie's beginning to find this funny. "Why are you so upset?"
"It's your hair."
"Yah? So? It's my hair and I can do what I want with it."
"Ugh," Hilda whines. Surprises her classmate by getting down on one knee, the noble's hands wrapping around the one with the dagger. "Please. Leonie. Let me do your hair."
After a moment of silence, Leonie's smile falters and she leans back. Realizes Hilda is serious. "You're not… going to shave my head or anything, are you?"
"Goddess no." Hilda pushes the hand and dagger flat on the ground. "Anything you want except that. Do you have a pair of scissors?"
They may have seen more use repairing her clothes and emergency bloodshed, but Leonie does keep all her blades sharp. Hilda declares the scissors acceptable and moves behind the woman. Leonie straightens her back, "Wait, right here?"
"Might as well," Hilda grumbles. "Better view then in a chair. Now, what do you want?"
"…How many haircuts have you given?"
"Enough. Answer my question or I'm keeping it long."
"Fine, okay, I guess… Can you do some kind of bob? Or, uh, I guess short? Maybe a few layers at the back?"
"How short?"
"Pretty close to my head. I don't like it falling in my face or being easy reach for enemies."
"You could just use your Faith shield to keep it in place." Hilda begins snipping. "That's what most of us do."
"I know. I just don't like wasting magic on that when I can do other things with it."
"It's not a waste."
"I know," Leonie repeats. "Especially if it makes you feel good. But… I don't think I want to grow my hair long." Feels too much like someone else in the mirror. "I like it short."
"Your hair's too thin to do much with it short," Hilda isn't impressed. "And if you grow it out, frame your face some, people will stop mistaking you for a man."
"I actually think that it is my benefit to be mysterious." Hilda can't see her grin. "Best of both worlds."
The Golden Deer second in command pauses. Leans around to ask, "Do you not care about being misgendered?"
"I don't care at all. I know some people don't like it, but it really doesn't bother me. In fact, I'd rather be called sir if I was a mercenary leader. But I do use she/her pronouns as a basic, in case you were wondering."
Hilda goes back to cutting, "What do you mean, as a basic?"
"Ah, sorry. Would default be a better word? Um… pretty much means, if someone asks for pronouns, that's what I tell them I'm used to. But I don't go out of my way to correct people." Doesn't care to, for more than one reason.
Her classmate hums, snip-snipping away at the hair bunched up. Sounds like Hilda's following through on the layers request. "Interesting. I think Professor Byleth is the only other person I've met who's open about gender like that. I'm… hmm… would you be amicable to helping me pen a letter to my brother about this subject?"
"Of course!" …Now that she's opened that subject. "Not to bring the mood down, but how's the no-slavery-allowed letter going?"
"I sent it off a few days ago. When there's a response, I will get the class together to go over it."
"Thank you for keeping us involved."
"Of course!" Snip-snip. "If you all weren't helping me, I'm not sure where I would have ever started with this. If I could have ever started."
"I'd like to hope you'd figure it out eventually," was there ever an ending with Cyril? Doesn't feel like that was an option. Probably for the best, it's creepy enough Byleth can S-rank everyone. "So… what were you doing before you stopped to help me?"
"Avoiding some potential suitors. Feels like I'm constantly getting invitations from Black Eagle looking to brag about their fieldwork. Don't they know I need a break?"
Leonie's grin stretches further as she struggles not to laugh, "Sounds rough."
A few minutes later, Hilda declares they are done. "You have no idea how long I've wanted to fix your hair."
The woman is quiet, watching her reflection. Leonie Pinelli stares back, smile falling to something small and sad as the orange rolls with the waves. That's me.
Do I hate myself?
"Well?" Hilda appears above her reflection. "What do you think? Am I wonderful, or am I the best?"
Sometimes I wish I could.
Leonie Pinelli is more then her on-screen appearances.
"Why not both?" Leonie leans back, knocking into the teen's legs. Hilda squawks, pulling a foot back at the woman's laughter. "Thank you for doing my hair, Hilda."
It's okay to be different.
She knows. After all, she is Leonie Pinelli now.
Still not going to grow her hair out, though.
"You can thank me by coming to me anytime you need a haircut."
The woman blinks a few times, head tilting, "You sure you want me to bother every time?"
"Absolutely. I never want to see all my hard work turn into a rat's nest; do you hear me? No one cuts your hair but me."
The laughter escapes again. Hilda's pink, determined face is cute combined with how possessive the her words sound. "Not even once we've graduated?"
"Not even then. You'll have to visit or face my wrath."
"Of course," Leonie lies. Even if she is still around post-graduation, there is no way the woman will travel across the continent for a haircut. Hilda isn't yet someone she's reluctant to cut all ties with once the going gets tough, no matter how threatening. As long as Leonie can replicate this haircut, Hilda will forget about it and her eventually.
Long hair would be interesting. Doesn't Ferdinand get better hair then Dorothea? Might be worth asking about his haircare techniques.
6.
An out of breath voice calls, "Get back here, cat!"
Leonie stops on her way to lunch. Watches as Cocoa explodes out of a bush in his escape. The mischievous cat catches sight of her and changes sprinting direction. He turns just enough to drop a bunch of papers at her feet and keep running. The human leans down out of habit to pick up the mess. In the corner of her eye, Linhardt stumbles to a halt.
She waves the papers, "These yours?"
"Yes." He swallows hard between trying to catch his breath. "Yes they are. Thank you Leonie… where is the cat that took them?"
"He ran off."
"Oh. He?"
"I call him Cocoa." When Linhardt moves to take the papers, Leonie doesn't let go. "So. How have you been, Linhardt."
He grimaces. Avoids eye contact, "I am preparing for my House's mission. Very busy, you know."
"I do know. That doesn't explain why you haven't talked to me since before my House's mission. You're not avoiding me again, are you?"
"I am not… avoiding you." He appears sincere enough that Leonie releases the papers. Linhardt sighs and runs a hand through his hair. "I apologize. Things have been very busy. When I see you, you always look occupied, and I unfortunately have a bad habit of forgetting to seek others out. I will try to be better about it."
The woman can't find it in herself to care whether he's going to follow through or not. Not her House, not her problem. However, this admittance means she cannot drop him altogether. Keeps him on her list of people to check up on at least once a week. "Thank you. When I asked, Dorothea suggested I stake out your and Caspar's room before curfew in order to catch you. If you don't at least wave to me sometime in the next two weeks, I will follow through with that idea."
He wheezes, "That will be unnecessary."
"I should hope so, but we shall see, won't we. Now," finally, Leonie's tone eases to something more friendly, "most importantly, how are you really doing?"
Once Linhardt has adjusted to the threat, he calms enough to take her lead towards the dining hall, "Caspar is making sure I sleep. Professor Byleth has stopped me from any research binges until after the mission. Other than that, I feel the same as always."
"Still falling asleep in class?"
"Actually, I haven't done that for a whole week now."
"Congratulations, Linhardt!"
He squints, and then seems to realize she's serious, "Thank you. It does not feel like an accomplishment some days, but I guess it is."
"Of course it is! Linhardt, you look much healthier then when we first met. It's amazing how far you've come in such short time. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise."
He glances at the papers he's holding. Skin still like a ghost, but not as boney. Even his green hair looks softer, shinier. Starting to look more beautiful than the baseline cute every main class student has going for them. When he meets her gaze again, his joking smile sparkles, "You look much the same as when we first met. New haircut, though."
"Thank you for noticing. Hilda did a great job cutting it, didn't she," Leonie's tone makes sure it isn't a question.
"Interesting," Linhardt mutters. "Dorothea and Ferdinand do haircuts for the entire House."
That's a lot of people. Leonie chooses to ignore the easy comment, face lighting up with a bit of mischief, "I knew he was good with hair!"
"Oh? How did you hear that?"
"I didn't hear anything. It's just – and I mean no offence to any of you – Ferdinand's hair is only second to Dorothea's for the Eagles, and I know her everything is natural. Ferdinand's appearance is too rich person to compare to her."
A tiny giggle startles out of Linhardt, "Rich person?"
"There's no way everything is natural," Leonie continues. "Especially not with how tailored his clothing is. Do you think he'll share some secrets?"
Linhardt is still quietly laughing, "I am positive he would love to talk about his style with someone over tea. Ah, but maybe wait until after our mission to ask him."
"Of course! How are you feeling about that, by the way?"
That kills the mood. Linhardt stops near the door, watching the chatter go on inside the dinning hall. "We are to go after the bandits that attacked us during class placement."
Leonie knows. Most of her memories are fragmented, and the missions list she could put together once she could write is most certainly out of order. However, the tutorial boss is easy to pick out. Small-time villains don't last long in Fire Emblem games.
"It was not the mission I was expecting," Linhardt continues. He has the right to be surprised. Not only is the Eagle mission last to go, but it has nothing to do with promoting the Church or – officially – guarding any civilians. This mission is one of revenge, a hammer of the Church. "I knew one day I would have to kill someone. To hunt them first, though? To act like they are rabid animals when they are other humans with thoughts and feelings and… and what if they have families?"
Leonie puts both hands on his shoulders. The touch, even through robes, is enough to startle Linhardt into activating his Crest. The smell of ozone hits her as his rope-like strands fail to find purchase on her fingers. None of it matters as orange eyes lock on to green, "I hope you won't hesitate when the choice is between letting others hurt your special people or letting those you care about live. If you do hesitate though, I want you to remember this. No matter what, everyone has a history you can find. If you decide to investigate, don't do it half-heartedly. If they have a family, be prepared to help that family out. If it turns out they have a bounty, take the money.
"And if you have to hunt someone down? Make sure its for reasons that can help you sleep at night. Those people the Church is sending you after? They tried to kill us, Linhardt. Murder us while we slept. Would have sent Fódlan into war if they managed to put down one of our House Leaders. Do you think the Church could have found them if they had changed their ways? If they weren't still killing and looting people? People that you, as a noble, will swear to protect once you inherit your family's status?"
That last sentence seems to hit harder then any other. Rich people are weird.
Linhardt looks faintly ill as he takes her hands off, but doesn't let go, "It is odd. As honest and genuine as your words are… they all sound so cold. Detached."
The woman's smile seems gentle, but inside she's exactly as he describes. Leonie was very young the last time she investigated why she should kill a bounty. "Everyone has their own ways to deal with killing. If you find you hate it, hire a bunch of guards. That way you won't ever have to do it again."
"Hmm… I am already trying to get a promise out of Caspar…"
"That's the spirit! And make sure you stick with him before and after the mission!"
Because if this is already causing him worries? Then Linhardt's guaranteed to get some nightmares or a relapse once the mission starts.
7.
"I apologize."
Everyone in the band room turns to look at Avinna. Then at Leonie. Barely half the club has shown for evening practice yet; not even Flayn's here. Leonie lowers her hands from where she was tuning her cello, letting them rest on the neck and body of the instrument, "What for?"
Avinna's face heats up, lips tightening. Like she expected two words to end it. "I apologize for grabbing you and making rude remarks towards you."
Leonie's smile doesn't drop, but disappointment is an eel in her veins. Slippery to hold, difficult to remove. This conversation would have been more effective for the both of them if it could have been done privately. Whose idea was it to be done in front of the class? Is it to show the others that Avinna can learn? To force Leonie into accepting the apology? To make sure nothing got out of hand?
There might have been some real growth if Avinna sought Leonie out and listened to what the woman had to say in response to such a lackluster apology. As it is now, she cannot request any of this extend to Sylvain. Oh well, no need to extend forgiveness until something comes out of the situation. Leonie keeps very still as she looks up at the teen standing over her, "Do you mean that?"
Avinna flounders for only a moment, "Of course!"
"Prove it."
"What?!"
Shoulders roll back, spine straight and fingers flex on the cello neck, "Group practices. We do them. You actually listen to Kaveran and I when we talk. Try to be a teammate with us instead of hating every moment you breathe the same air as me. Prove that you're actually apologetic by not treating me like dirt on your shoe, and I'll forgive you. If you actually want my forgiveness, that is."
Obvious by the flushed cheeks and clenched fists, Avinna does not desire anything from Leonie. Someone is making her do this, and whoever it is has enough power to make the noble spit out, "Fine. We will pick a time with Kaveran after class."
"Sounds good to me!" Leonie's charming smile doesn't fade into something more neutral until Avinna is back in her seat. Mutters over at Vernon, "Do you think my forgiveness is actually required?"
Blinking away the shock, the Eagle on base mutters back, "Absolutely."
Maybe Leonie can still ask something for Sylvain.
8.
"Seriously," Leonie scoffs, adjusting her hand on the fishing pole. Pets another sleeping cat while she casts Cocoa exasperated looks, "just drop the things in the lost and found. I didn't spend all that time drafting papers for Seteth for it to go unused. Stop making me put things inside."
Cocoa flicks his tail at her, eyes on the kittens rolling around the dock. The Crest threads from him emote how he's not going to stop leaving presents at her door. Honestly, the cat is more bird-like with his tendency to steal things.
Leonie scoffs again at him, turning to the water as the pole jerks. Easily yanks the fish up into the air, hits it with a glare of magic, and then lets it flop dead behind her. Cocoa gets it off the hook and runs it back a bit so no other cats go near when the human refills and throws the line back out.
This evening is a treat. A moment to relax now that Leonie's recently checked up on all her connections. Giving herself some peace and paying back Cocoa for the unasked help of finding Linhardt. The cat wants her to feed the feline population, and so Leonie shall. Only issue is that she has to be patient and actually fish. Worms on the end and everything. Can't just pull out a never-ending stream of meals with no bait. Church members get weird about daily life oddities, someone would notice the magic.
Cats eat the fish before anyone can notice the mid-air deaths.
Busy sounds and rattles on the dock keep the silence from closing in, and from any conversation reaching past cat ears. While the grip on the pole is tight, Leonie's shoulders are relaxed. She gazes at the water. At the orange sky. Can remember a different sunset and old friends as she mutters, "You don't have to be productive."
Cocoa sends a questioning note.
Leonie shakes her head, memories tucking to a safe place, "Sorry, getting lost in thought. I came from a place that was constantly on the move. Helps with my goal here, but it's nice to not feel shamed for taking a rest."
He wonders if she's really resting. Pointed glance at the fishing rod.
"This is resting. For me, at least. If I wasn't doing this, I'd be killing time reading novels Hilda's taken to leaving in my room."
Squinted stare.
"Really. If I thought this was a chore, I'd have cheated with magic and fed you all already."
Cocoa sneezes and goes back to watching the kittens play, stopping any strays from tumbling into the water. As the fish come and go, the cats and kits leave until it's only Leonie and him watching the line.
"The Eagles leave on their mission tomorrow," Leonie sighs. Pulls the final fish up for him. "What do you think of Profesor Byleth?"
Before he can answer, Cocoa tenses. Grabs the fish from her hand and darts away. Blinking dumbly at his exit, Leonie stares at the dock long enough to see Seteth appear and walk over.
"Good evening, Leonie," he nods, initiating more conversation than they've had in weeks. Sure, Leonie waves and greets him on her way to meet Jeralt, but Flayn's father is incredibly illusive and nearly as busy as the Deer student. "Are you fishing for meal gathering?"
Well, now she is, "Yep! I've caught a few things, but the cats grabbed them all and I didn't have the heart to go after them."
"They certainly can be difficult to say no to," he hums. Looks at her empty basket and then the container beside it. Frowns, "Do you have enough bait?"
"Of course! And I can always dig some more up if I need to." At her words, a strange expression flashes over Seteth. Something niggles in her brain - probably more forgotten memories - and Leonie doesn't want to know. Right now is for relaxing. "How have you been, Seteth?"
"Well, thank you for asking." Whatever million things he wants to say, the green haired Nabatean settles for a cautious, "Has Avinna Usurla apologized to you?"
Oh, so that's what this is about. "She has. I take it that was part of her punishment?"
"It was not meant to be a punishment," Seteth doesn't look happy. Stares hard at Leonie, searching for something she isn't showing with her default smile. "Though I will admit I had to supplement the official reprimand with my requirements on her worldview growth. Did you forgive her?"
"…We're working on it," Leonie finally goes back to fishing. Turns her back to the threat, the taste of freshly cut grass on her tongue. It doesn't mix well with fish. "If she can put in the effort to be a good teammate for our group work, then I'll forgive her."
Seteth's relieved sigh is not expected, "Thank you, Leonie."
Her smile twists into something confused. Glances over her shoulder, "For what?"
He chuckles, and for a moment she can glimpse as to why he's an S-Rank potential for the real Leonie, "I have come to find that not many people withhold forgiveness, even if they do not mean the words they say. If it were anyone else, Avinna would have had to apologize on her own merit."
"Then how'd you know I wouldn't let her off easy?"
"Have you forgiven Manuela?"
Leonie's lips pull back, smile turning to a silent snarl. Whips her head back to the water so she doesn't disrespect the final authority on the Manuela matter. It takes a long, painful moment to swallow back every cutting remark. The best she can do is ask a bland, "What do you think?"
Thankfully for everyone around, Seteth has enough experience and wisdom to not push. Leonie doesn't know if he understands all the factors of Leonie's anger, but the man knows he's part of it. Knows he's overstepped and takes the dismissal without an issue, "Enjoy your time fishing, Leonie."
"Have a great day, Seteth."
9.
In contrast to how many Knights were grouped with the Deer and Lion missions, the Black Eagle send-off has practically none. Sure, the other Houses were doing missions that benefitted the Church's image directly, but Byleth's class mission is specifically about murdering people. If anyone else knows about Rhea's mother-issues, they would also think it strange how Byleth has so little backup.
The Professor of the Eagles doesn't seem to mind. Leonie darts in during a small break between the students wishing him well to add her own, "Good luck out there, Professor!"
"Thank you, Leonie," he nods and glances away, as if to greet the next person in his class. Taking the cue, the orange haired woman goes to duck away when suddenly there's a hand around her wrist. Byleth looks at her again, blue eyes searching her face, and only releases when he's certain she won't run off. "Will you look after my father while I'm gone?"
Sharp pricks of surprise rush over Leonie. Smile softens into something more real, back straight, her hand goes up in a mock salute, "Of course, Professor! You can count on me!"
His face stays neutral, but Leonie's sure he isn't pleased. The woman has no idea why. Whatever, his problem.
But… he still hasn't acknowledged her reply. Leonie takes a step back into the crowd with a wink, "You look after your students too, okay Professor?"
She doesn't stick around long enough to hear his reply. A bit rude on both their parts, though Leonie can get a lot meaner. She won't let Jeralt die. It's her whole thing. Byleth may be a known mercenary, but Leonie has never seen him in command. Has no idea who will make it home this mission and struggles to hold on to the chest-crushing, freezing-warmth concern she woke up with.
Leonie had a dream last night. Bits of it likely from an old, mostly forgotten memory. Now she gets to remember that a speedrun goes better when the majority of a class are dead. Nothing to do about that unless she wants to risk everything.
So, instead, Leonie smiles for everyone to see. Acts like she isn't sending them off to a slaughter. Has a small, quiet hope that this world is set to Casual mode.
Hugs Bernadetta when the teen throws herself at Leonie, "Whoa! Hi, Bernadetta! Good to see you too!"
"I don't want to go!" she whines against Leonie's stomach. "Why am I doing this?! I want to stay in my room!"
"Sorry," Leonie chuckles and rubs the teen's back. "I can't help you unless you want to be on the run for the rest of your life."
More dramatic then serious, Bernadetta groans and her Crest threads slump to the ground, "That would be even worse!"
"Then you'll just have to go kick some butt out there. And hey! Worst case scenario, hide behind Edelgard. Then you'll have Byleth and Hubert protecting you."
A strangled giggle slips out from the purple haired teen. Bernadetta sniffs and finally legs go, "I think Hubert would kill me if I did that."
"He would not," comes the amused voice of the Eagle's House Leader. Edelgard stops beside them, most of her fellow students turning in wait for when the princess is available to talk. "I would protect you as well, so do not worry, Bernadetta. Hello Leonie."
"Hi Edelgard," Leonie doesn't show how unimpressed she is. It's been a week since their last talk. The Black Eagle leader hasn't even shown over the Avinna situation. "Are you excited for your mission?"
"As much as I can be," is the cop-out answer. "Any tips you can provide, Leonie?"
…At least she's trying. "Try to keep track of where everyone is. Believe me, you do not want to get hit with an arrow from a teammate because you jumped out of a tree."
From the looks she gets, no one was expecting that from Leonie. Edelgard takes it in stride though, "I… will keep that in mind. Thank you. I must get back to packing, but Bernadetta? We leave in half an hour, so please make sure you are ready by then."
"I will be," the teen mutters. Slowly peels herself off the Deer with a sad wave, "Bye, Leonie."
"Good luck! Try and have some fun out there when you can."
Bernadetta's barely swallowed by the crowd when there's a soft snort beside Leonie. Curly brown hair whips into her face as Dorothea does a quick hug, "I'm not sure how much fun we'll have sleeping on the ground."
"There's sure to be some towns to stop in," Leonie grins as Dorothea hooks an arm around hers and begins dragging her to the center of people saying goodbye. All the Houses have gathered, looks like Leonie missed whatever memo called the majority of Main Class students here. Good thing Dorothea came to get her. "You'll do your best to be safe out there, right?"
"Of course. You may not believe it, but I am very good at getting myself out of trouble. I do know how to throw a punch and connect a kick, unlike most others."
Leonie laughs and pulls her arm out when a few other Eagles move to say goodbye, "I look forward to hearing all about your epic tales when you get back."
The half-hour flies by with people coming and going from the area in a hurry. The Eagles have the largest turnout waving goodbye, which makes sense considering the size of the House. Before they're gone from view, Hilda's there pulling Leonie away from the crowd and towards Lysithea and Marianne. With a stern tone, she declares, "We are going to do some more testing today."
Leonie doesn't ask about including Claude. If he wants to know, he can always pester Hilda for allowance into the group. Instead, the oldest Deer clears her mental schedule and winks, "Sounds good to me!"
Concern dissipates from her chest.
10.
Sometime today, Byleth and his class will be fighting bandits.
Right now, Leonie waits on the other side of Manuela's desk. The student is careful not to lean too far forwards as she tracks which papers are sorted where and what drawers are locked. Finally, Manuela pulls out the latest proposal from her most disliked student.
Leonie breathes out a long, slow breath at the relief of seeing 'approved' across the top of the page.
"The final decision on where to put it is still being discussed," Manuela says, handing over the papers. "In the meantime, you will present at least three outlines for various plot sizes. I will need sketches and dimensions for every bit of equipment, and if you need to mock it up in real life then the blacksmiths know to expect you. That is all."
The student nods, holding the papers to her chest as she hurries over to her desk. Lysithea looks over, reading the proposal as Claude blatantly watches over their shoulders.
Hilda pokes Leonie until the woman turns, "Congratulations. What did you go with?"
Leonie looks over to where the other half of the class discusses Ignatz and Raphael's approved proposals. She shares an excited grin when she catches the commoners' eyes, "Based off of Raphael's idea. I'm going to make a playground."
"A playground?"
Sometimes she forgets she's surrounded by nobles and in an area where no one's scared of kids getting run over by cars or horses or something. "A designated play area for children with equipment for them to burn energy on. I promise it will make more sense once it's done."
Claude at least seems very interested, "Is a swing set like the ropes you hang off a tree and attach to a plank? So you can rock back and forth in air?"
"Pretty much! Except I'm hopeful to make this one more comfortable."
"How do you plan to do that?"
"If my testing goes well, then I'll let you know."
A/N: A fancy new bow? Ride behind someone on a wyvern as a gift? Promise of haircuts forever? Why focus on the possibility of Byleth on a speedrun when there's all this daily life drama to contend with.
Thank you for reading! A really big thank you to xenocanaan, Hong-Meirin, Dalan777, seether0001106, guisniperman, UDtimburrhog, SchattenSoldat08, and Guest for reviewing! The support truly means a lot!
Good luck on your fic, Guest! I hope you have a great time writing! I don't mind at all if you list this fic as an inspiration, and no matter what it really means a lot that you reached out to let me know. Thank you so much!
Again, thank you to everyone who's read/reading this fic. It's four years old and there's still more to come! I hope that it continues to be as enjoyable to read as it is to write it! Thank you all!
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