Chapter 17: Flames Within

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Magic turned out to be both harder than he thought it would be, and easier than he thought it would be.

Like most things growing up, Byleth learned better by doing. Many times he was thrown into a new task or skill alongside his sister. Together they would sort out what needed doing, and helped each other improve.

There was considerably less time for that at the monastery, what with all of their own individual responsibilities.

Having Hanneman as a teacher provided less time than he anticipated to actually do anything. Hanneman liked to lecture— a lot— and Byleth hadn't fully discovered that fact until recently.

Which was where the hard part came in, because after all the time he spent attending his lessons , he only managed to actually do one spell. A basic fire spell. The flame that he had held in his hand wasn't as hot as he expected, not hot like candle light, and he had no idea why. Hanneman's lectures didn't exactly answer the question either. Was it because the spell was too weak? It did only last for a few seconds before it went out. Or was it because he was the caster of the spell? The only other person he could think to ask would be Manuela, but he wasn't so sure asking her was the best idea. He could ask a student, but he couldn't think of anyone he would want to seek help from in that regard. Possibly Mercedes, but she was much too busy with her own assignments.

"That concludes our lesson for this week!" Hanneman declared with a clap of his hands. "I look forward to our next study session."

Byleth stood, giving the older man a silent nod before slipping out into the hall.

Perhaps he'll use the time to go fishing instead…

You can only write so many notes on something before you run out of space, both on the page, and in your patience. Which is why he kept his own lectures quick, and to the point. Tangents were something he was not a fan of.

"Good afternoon, Professor Byleth," Seteth nearly passed him in the hall before turning back around to face him, "I was just going to send Cyril to look for you."

Byleth eyed him warily, ever since the incident in the mausoleum a week, and a half ago, he'd been just slightly on edge when it came to Rhea, and her advisor. Though Seteth had seemed very against the idea of Rhea allowing Bala to keep the Relic, he couldn't be too careful. He was Rhea's right hand for a reason, wasn't he?

"Afternoon, Seteth. What do you need?"

He looked him over once more before clearing his throat. "We have a small mission available for you to take. This is optional, though I do request you consider taking it." He adjusted some books in his arms then handed him an envelope. "It should be a simple mission, some bandits are disrupting the trade routes connecting Magdred Way to the monastery. As of right now, the Knights of Serios are spread too thin to send immediate assistance. If we were to send anybody it won't be for some time. If you can head down to check out the situation within the next few days, it would be much appreciated."

Byleth opened up the letter, and scanned it quickly. It was dated back a few days, so the problem has already been going on for some time. His students weren't terribly injured during the festival so they should be able to make the trip without any issues…

Seteth continued, "I do request you leave with Professor Hanneman. The Black Eagles are taking on a similar mission in the area you'll be in. Teaming up will help ensure the utmost caution. We will of course, be sending you with a small amount of guards to assist."

A chance to collaborate with the Black Eagles on the field? That would be a good experience for the students— perhaps Hanneman would be able to steer away from such extensive lectures when he had no books around to aid him. Unless of course he actually brought his notes with him, which was entirely plausible.

"Alright." He finally said with a nod. "I'll let the students know, and begin preparations."

"Much appreciated, Professor. Do let me know when you plan to head out. Oh, and before I forget, Captain Jeralt was looking for you. I'm not sure where he's gone off to, but he asked me to let you know if I saw you. I'm afraid he didn't say where he would be."

"Right, and thank you"

Seteth looked him over once more before leaving down the hall.

He watched him leave before making his way to his father's office.

'I wonder what for.' He thought to himself absently. 'Does he need Bala as well? Seteth didn't mention it…'

"Oh, Professor! Are you looking for Captain Jeralt?"

Byleth paused. It was Leonie, why was she lurking outside his father's office? "Oh, actually—"

"I just saw him in the Knights' hall a little while ago. He was talking with a female knight, but I didn't get a good look at who she was."

"... Thank you." Did that mean he wasn't in his office? Did she come here to wait for him? Just in case, he stepped passed her to check, but the doors were closed.

If his father was looking for him, and he was in the office, then the doors would most likely be open. He wanted to knock just to be sure, but he could feel Leonie's eyes on him still.

"How are classes going?" He asked her after a moment. He didn't prod too much into the lives of the students, but Bala was always so concerned for everyone… it might be good if he asked how people were doing more often.

"They're going well." She crossed her arms. "Though I want you to pair me up with Dimitri for our next lancer class."

"Oh, is there a specific reason? You know we usually rotate our—"

"Lorenz is such an annoying training partner!" She threw her hands up in the air. "It's bad enough that I have homeroom with him!"

Maybe he shouldn't have asked. This also sounded more like something for his sister to deal with, they were both in her house after all. Despite the urge to leave it at that, he pressed on. "Um, what happened?"

"He gave me the hardest time while I was polishing some weapons. I did my best to be cordial, but inside, inside I was steaming!" She scowled, "I can't stand when people talk to me like that! Like they're better than me just because of their place of birth."

He sighed quietly, "I can… try to speak to him if you like." Though he had no idea what he would say to him.

She shook her head with a huff, "No, that's not necessary. I just blew a gasket 'cause I'm frustrated. I lost the lancing tournament! Against Dimitri!" She crossed her arms, "that's why I want to be his training partner. That's also why I'm waiting for Captain Jeralt to get back, so I can ask for some private lessons."

"I see." At least he didn't have to ask anymore. It was really no surprise that Dimitri won. "I'll see what I can do. Have a good day." He gave her a short nod, and left for the steps.

"See ya, Professor." She called after him.

The Knights' Hall wasn't very crowded, but that was expected since so many were out on missions. He spotted Catherine talking to a man he hadn't seen before, so he stood off to the side to wait for her to finish.

He noticed she didn't have Thunderbrand on her. 'I wonder where she stores the sword when she isn't on duty…' Though it was under lock and key, he knew keeping the Sword of the Creator under his sister's bed wasn't a good place for it.

If potential thieves caught wind of its hiding place— well— suffice to say that wouldn't be good.

Catherine noticed him, and waved for him to join her. "C'mere Professor! I want you to meet someone."

After a moment he pushed off the wall he was leaning on and walked over to the pair. "I'm sorry for interrupting." He said when her guest turned to him.

A guest that looked oddly familiar.

"Oh, no, worry not. I've heard a lot about you. I am Rodrigue Achille Fraldarius." He bowed lightly, "I bear the great honor of serving as a Lord in the great Kingdom of Faerghus."

"Byleth." He replied simply.

Rodrigue? Actually, didn't Dimitri mention—

His eyes widened slightly, "Oh, Dimitri has mentioned you. It's nice to meet you." He held his hand out.

Rodrigue's eyes brightened, and he took his hand firmly, "Ah, you must be his Professor then? It is great to meet you too! I would love to learn first hand what makes you such a skilled individual. I have heard much about you!"

Byleth couldn't help but feel amused, he wanted to spar with him already? That definitely sounded familiar, but unlike a certain son of his… this Rodrigue was so polite!... but, why?

"Perhaps we can arrange something then. What brings you to the monastery?"

"I have come in Margrave Gautier's stead to retrieve their stolen Relic— as I'm sure you're aware— However… As I hear it, a group of students is to attend to this matter. I sincerely hope no harm comes to any of them." He shook his head, "I submit a request to assist the students in this task. I just hope the Church accepts my assistance."

"Hm. If you haven't, speak to Seteth directly about it. I can't see why that would be a problem. Of course, as long as the Church can't be held accountable for potential injury or death." If he had to pick, Seteth would be the one to bring issues like this to, not Rhea.

"Ah, that is a good idea. I came here fully prepared to go alone, so no need to worry. It was nice to meet you. I look forward to when you have the time for a spar."

"Likewise." It would definitely be a good opportunity to see how much Felix's fighting style differed from his Father. He might even learn something about him.

He shifted slightly then turned to Catherine. "Have you seen my Father?"

"Oh! Jeralt? He said something about visiting the graveyard, but you need special clearance to get in. You'll have to talk to Seteth about that."

Special clearance? He supposed it wasn't a good idea to let just anyone in a place like that, but he just came from speaking to Seteth. Having to journey up all the way back to his office irked him a little. Why didn't his father tell Seteth where he was going? Why couldn't Catherine just let him in?

"I see. Thank you." He nodded his goodbyes, and left the area promptly. He still had a lot to do today, and running back and forth wasn't what he had in mind. Knowing his father, he might not even be in the graveyard by the time he got back down there. Which meant he might have to spend the rest of his free time tracking him down.

He was halfway back when he spotted Bala down the hall. He briefly waved for her attention.

She jogged over to him, brows furrowed. "Hello Leth, Did you know Father is looking for us?"

He nodded. "I wasn't one hundred percent sure if it was both of us, but yes. The instructions he gave Seteth sounded pretty vague."

"Yeah, same here. I've been running around all afternoon. I just got back from Seteth's office." She sighed, "I got permission from him to enter the graveyard." She handed him a sheet of paper. "He said we can give this to the guard for now, and later he can update our keystones."

"Saves me a lot of walking, thanks. Do you know where this graveyard is?"

"Yeah, I got instructions from him too," she tapped her temple, "one step ahead of you. Better be careful, or I'll start outsmarting you by landslides."

He shook his head, "I doubt that. If anything, it'll be a very difficult victory." He followed her down the path. He wouldn't go down without a fight.

"I don't know about that," she hummed, "these last few months I've been coming up with some pretty good sch— ideas." Her face fell.

"Everything alright?" He asked after a moment.

"Yeah, yeah… I just thought of something is all." she shrugged a shoulder.

"Thought of?"

She shook her head, "Nothing important…"

He eyed her for a moment longer, but when she kept walking forward he decided to let it go for now.

She'd tell him when she was ready. They never kept anything important from each other anyway.

"You should know, I'll be going on a mission soon. It's in Magdred Way. It's only supposed to be to clear up a trade route."

"Oh, alright… do you know if others are allowed with you?" She asked quietly.

"I'll actually be joining the Black Eagles on the way there."

Her shoulders slumped, "I see. Be careful then."

He nodded. "You don't have to worry. It'll be fine. The students are better prepared now, and I'm not one to take things lightly."

"I know. Still."

"Alright. I'll be extra careful." He sighed, and looked her over quickly, "How have you been?"

She rubbed her arm silently for a moment then shrugged, "I've been okay. Sothis is asleep now, but we were just talking about why the sword looks so odd. Strangely enough I, well I couldn't look at it for very long… we couldn't."

"Is there a spell on it?" He asked with slight concern.

"I don't think so. Sothis said she couldn't sense anything on it." She sighed heavily, "I might just be tired still."

"Well, let me know if you need anything, or if you find anything out."

She nodded, "I will."

They fell silent until they got to the graveyard. Bala stepped forward to present their written permissions to the guard there.

He approved them with a simple nod, and unlocked the gate for them.

There were a few cats lazing about the space, and Bala wasted no time in going over to give them her attention.

He was going to suggest she leave them be, but paused when he saw the hint of a smile on her face. She'd been pretty reserved these last few days especially. Well, actually reserved wasn't the right word, she'd been much like she used to be before coming to the monastery. While the new information about their Crests was cause for much contemplation—at least on his part— he had to wonder if she was feeling any different since receiving the sword. She'd mentioned not being able to look at it long…why could that be?

After a few minutes he cleared his throat, "Bala, Father's just over there." He motioned ahead of them with a nod.

She didn't respond right away, but when she did it was with a quiet, short nod. She gave the tabby infront of her one more pat on the head before standing up, and brushing her palms on her shirt. She moved ahead to stand by their Father.

"Hello Father." He greeted him once they were standing beside him.

"You were looking for us?" Bala asked quietly.

"Ah, yes," he looked at them briefly before turning back to the headstone in front of them. "I wanted to ask you two personally to join me, but I couldn't find you. So here I am." He turned back to them, this time with a smile on his face.

Byleth couldn't help but be taken aback. Their father rarely smiled, when he did it wasn't so… sincerely? There was a warmness in his eyes that he couldn't really remember seeing before. At least not to this extent.

"I was thinking we should visit… your mother."

At his side he noticed Bala tensed up.

Their mother? Was there ever a time that he mentioned her in the past? Why now then?

"She's resting beneath this humble grave…"

Byleth looked over the grave carefully, it didn't look unkempt, but it was definitely humble. What intrigued him the most, however, was why was she buried here? And why didn't their father mention it sooner? Something like this did seem rather important to know…

Perhaps he had his reasons…

"Why is her grave here?" Bala mumbled, arms crossed. As if reading his mind.

Jeralt frowned, "Huh? Oh, of course you would ask that. I wouldn't know where to begin. I suppose I haven't talked about her much." He sighed heavily, and rubbed his face with his hand.

Byleth looked between him, and his sister with a frown of his own. "That's alright Father. You don't have to go into detail if you don't want to."

That earned him a glare from Bala, but otherwise she remained silent.

"I do owe you two something — She was gentle and smart. So smart." The smile returned to his face. "A wonderful cook, always kind to everyone. And… she loved flowers. Whenever I brought her an unusual flower, her face would light up."

"She sounds like Bala." Byleth said after a moment. "She has a garden here too."

"Leth!"

"She's always giving flowers to the students."

"..."

Jeralt turned to her, "Oh, you do? That's sweet of you. Your mother also had a garden."

She frowned, and glanced to the side, "It's just to pass the time, and I only give them flowers on their birthday…besides I can't cook that well. I wouldn't call roasting game on a fire, a wonderful cook. "

"To us it does." Byleth shrugged, "besides, you've gotten better since being here."

"My deer are better…"

Jeralt cracked another smile, "Your deer?"

She tsked , "My students ."

Jeralt laughed, and gave them both a pat on the back. "It's nice to see you two loosening up ."

"What made you want to share this with us anyway?" Byleth asked.

"You have a right to know. The memories I have of her, they need to be shared." Jeralt said with a sigh, "She smiled at just about anything you know, she was so kind, but she smiled the most when she was pregnant with you two." He gave their shoulders a squeeze. "She died right after you were born. She wasn't able to spend much time with you." He sighed again, and dropped his hands. "But she loved you guys with all her heart. That's the truest thing I know… Never forget it."

"What was her name?" Bala mumbled after a few seconds. "Her name is worn away from the headstone."

Jeralt turned to inspect the stone up close, a frown on his face. "Oh, you're right. That's a shame…" he sighed, "her name was Sitri."

Byleth leaned in to inspect the stone himself, sure enough the engraving on the surface was worn to the point of being illegible.

"I'll have to see about getting that fixed." Jeralt said with a frown. "Anyway, thanks for hearing me out. I'm sorry it took so long to tell you this."

"No, that's alright. I'm sure you had your reasons." Byleth said.

"Right…" Bala sighed, and stood up. "Well, I have to go meet up with Professor Manuela, and Mercedes in the Cathedral." She shifted her weight from one side to the other, "thank you for telling us about her."

He nodded, "Alright, and thank you for your patience. Ask Manuela if she liked the wine I gave her."

"She already finished it." She deadpanned.

He threw his head back in a laugh. "Ha! She must have loved it then!"

She smiled wryly, "Yeah." She waved once, "okay, see you around. Be safe Leth."

Byleth waved back, "I will. See you."

He watched her go then turned back to his father, "I should go too, I have to prepare for a mission."

"Ah, alright before you go though, I want to show you something." He pulled a chain from underneath his shirt. "This ring is the only keepsake I have of your mother."

Byleth inspected the ring carefully, it was an elegant silver band with multiple small gems in the shape of a flower.

"In time, it will be yours. One day, I hope you'll give this ring to someone you love as well as I love her."

He frowned slightly, he never even thought about anything like that before. He always just assumed he would spend the rest of his days on the road with the troop.

"Special someone? Father I don't think I would ever find the time for something like that."

Not many would jump at the opportunity to socialize with an Ashen Demon… let alone… anything else.

Jeralt laughed, and shook his head, "Well I often see you down by the pier in the early morning. Could use some of that time to socialize instead."

"Here? Father? There's hardly time for any of that. Besides, I have responsibilities, any free time I manage is used to help my students. Not—" For some reason his face was starting to feel awfully warm, he waved his hand out in front of him, "—not flitting around looking for, uh, companionship. Besides, You join me at times." He crossed his arms, "Dawn is hardly a time for any of that anyway. It would be pointless for me to go into town to do anything but find needed supplies not offered in the market."

"Alright, alright, forgive your old man. Just feeling a bit sentimental." He sighed, and glanced back at the grave. "I just don't want you to feel like you have to stay on the road forever. I know I didn't help with that, but maybe when we're done here, we can find a town to settle in for a while."

"Hm, I don't know." Half the time they left a town behind was because their father had gotten restless. He never liked staying in one spot for too long. That same restlessness had been instilled into himself at a young age. Being at the monastery wasn't quite as bad as staying in a small town, because there was always the opportunity to go on missions elsewhere. The students also provided a constant source of training sessions— among other not so pleasant stresses and predicaments. Suffice to say he was kept on his toes.

"What about Bala? Shamir said a lot of the lower ranking knights have eyes on her."

"Bah! Anyone who has the balls to approach her better not forget they have to deal with me. No matter how strong, she's still my little girl. Can't let just anyone crawl on by, now can I?" He crossed his arms, "I hope you continue to keep an eye on her too." His tone sobered, "Especially after all of this mess you guys just went through."

"Hm, I will." He considered telling him about his concerns over her house leader in relation to the sword, but decided against it. Though he had reason enough to be suspicious of the strange student, he still wanted to know more about him. Besides, he'd already warned Bala. "Well, I need to get going. I have a short mission in Magdred Way. I want to leave as soon as possible."

"Stay sharp." He clapped him on the shoulder once more.

"Like an obsidian blade." he mumbled, and made his way up the nearby steps."

I wonder what got Father feeling so sentimental… he thought to himself. It wasn't like him to be so emotional. Perhaps being in proximity of his wife's grave is what did it. Was that why he didn't want to come back to the monastery? Because of the memories? It was understandable. He couldn't blame him for that.

He hurried to the market to restock on any supplies he may need. Even though he didn't expect any trouble, Bala was right. Especially now with their new discovery, things might not be so easy.

"How many times do I have to tell you this, Kyle? The damned steel has to be delivered to the guardsman on Tuesdays!"

"O-Oh, I'm sorry. I forgot."

"You always bloody forget , write the damned thing down then!"

"Oh, right. Yeah, I'm sorry."

Byleth tilted his head, it wasn't like him to eavesdrop when not doing recognizance, but he recognized the second voice, so he pushed his way through the crowd to inspect further.

He was surprised to see Cyril standing there, gathering some items into a basket that appeared to have been knocked over.

The man at the stall continued to yell at him. "Don't let the mix up happen again you damn rat! I can't afford to lose all this merchandise."

Cyril scowled, and stood, basket on his hip, "Maybe if you weren't such a sour bastard, you wouldn't—"

The man struck him in the face with a fist, knocking him down.

Byleth frowned, and moved to stand between them, "Is there a problem, sir?"

The man spat on the ground, "Yeah, I'm sick of dealing with these filthy rans. Wish the church wouldn't harbor so many refugees."

Byleth's frown deepened, there was no reason for this man to behave like this. Cyril was so much younger than this man. In comparison, practically a child. "You should expect to have your permit removed. People with your attitude aren't welcome here in the monastery." He would definitely be speaking to Seteth about this guy.

Ignoring the man's incoherent flailing he turned to help Cyril to his feet, but the latter refused his hand. Instead he picked up the basket, and it's contents then ushered him away from the crowds.

"Are you alright Cyril?" He held the basket out to him.

"Yeah." He muttered, and snatched the basket back.

Byleth frowned at that. "What happened?"

"I just got my days mixed up." He rubbed his cheek, and spit out pink. "Happens now, and then. It's hard for me to remember so much all the time, but I try."

"Why don't you write it somewhere? Do you need a journal?" He dug in his pocket to offer him a handkerchief, but he refused it.

"I can't write in Fódlani," he spit again, "and some of the people here don't take too kindly to anything else. The last time I wrote anything down was so long ago. Even that would probably be illegible. Not like anyone could read it. Apparently it's not a real alphabet."

Byleth looked him over carefully, did Shamir know he had such trouble? Just then he remembered something. "Why'd that man call you Kyle? I thought your name was Cyril?"

"My name is Cyril." He snapped.

"So, why—"

"That's just my Fódlan name." He rolled his eyes. "One of the head servants here told me when I first got here that I'd be better off with it anyway." He shrugged, "I don't understand why, but whatever. I couldn't actually tell her how to spell my name anyway, so she said Kyle would be easier. People in town give me a little less trouble if I tell 'em that's my name."

His brows furrowed, that didn't make sense to him. "Shamir calls you Cyril, and I do."

"Shamir's nice. She's actually really patient with me. Besides, I appreciate you trying to be nice to me, but you're saying my name wrong anyway."

He was? That surprised him, why didn't he mention it before? Though, this was his first full conversation with the kid…

"Oh, I didn't realize. How so?"

"Huh? Oh…" he shifted from one foot to the other before looking at him with a frown. "I'm only going to bother telling you once. You're too harsh with that R sound. It's uh, I don't know, not so aggressive? I could be nitpicky, but that's the biggest difference. You're not supposed to like, growl it."

It was that bad?

"Oh, alright. Thanks for telling me. I'll remember that."

He nodded slowly, "Yeah, and I'm sorry for snatching the basket back. I was just irritated."

"That's fine. You should take it easy. Wouldn't be good to get hurt again."

"Yeah. I guess." He sighed heavily, "Oh, and if you see Professor Balaiya anywhere, can you tell her I wanted to ask her something?"

"What did you want to ask her?"

He frowned, "Something. Anyway, I gotta go." he turned, and left without another word.

"Hm."

'Strange kid. I guess if anything I can stick a note under her door if I don't see her before I leave. I wonder what he wants to talk to her about. Hopefully nothing out of the ordinary.'

He finished up his task in the market, and hurried off to count everything in the convoy.

If everything went well, the mission shouldn't take longer than a few days. A week at most. But that's only if the weather isn't in their favor.

Walking in the rain never actually hurt anybody. At least the rain itself.

Once he was finished checking over his list he went to the classroom to teach his last class for the day. A tactics class. One he admittedly didn't like, only because he disliked lecturing.

The lecture went by as smoothly as it could. He had to wake Lindhardt three times, and he was actually surprised he managed to stay up after that. Though that might have been thanks to Edelgard. She sat in the seat beside him, and would repeatedly elbow him through the rest of the class.

Perhaps next time he should just let him sleep. Somehow, he still aced everything anyway, but it annoyed him to look up only to see the guy sleeping.

He was supposed to be collecting journals today to grade for the week, but since he took on the mission he decided he'd just check off whoever completed the assignment. For some reason he was still surprised when Lindhardt lazily flipped to his completed pages, and a quick glance showed that they were indeed filled out properly. In much detail too. Edelgard, and Hubert received full marks as well, though he was just checking for completion this time, but they usually got full if not close to a full score every time anyway. Ashe and Ingrid also had everything prepared, and displayed out easily for him to check through. Annette was the one that had many questions. As she so often did, Lysithea overheard part of the conversation, and rushed over to stand by their desk.

"Oh! I had the same question Professor! See, I thought it would be better if group A took this route by the trees, here." She opened up her journal, and excitedly motioned to the sketch of the map.

"That's what I was thinking!" Annette exclaimed, "but then I wasn't sure because last week, there was a similar problem. Why would both situations work out almost identically?"

Byleth did his best to refrain from sighing aloud, and peered down at the girls different notes. "Well, you shouldn't write off the fact that just because the terrain is different, things can't work out the same. Timing has a lot to do with many of these faux situations, and in real life. Even army size doesn't always determine victory. There are plenty of scenarios where a small army like this," he gestured to their notes,"could defeat an army of double or more in size. If they use the terrain to their advantage."

"Oh! I knew it! I should have gone with my gut!" Annette mumbled.

"Of course I was right!" Lysithea grinned, "I was just, um, reconfirming it! I wasn't doubtful or anything."

He did sigh that time, and pressed a hand to his forehead. Their voices were a little too high pitched, and a little too loud right now…

"Um, Professor Byleth?" Came a much meeker voice.

"Yes, Ignatz?" He moved over to his desk, doing his best to block out the chatter from the girls behind him.

"I, um, I lost my journal! I just had it last week! I know I did…" he frowned, and took his glasses off to wipe them on his sleeve. "I can't remember where I could have put it…but I did do the homework!" he slouched in his seat. "Oh, but I guess I don't have anything to show for it."

"Don't worry Ignatz," he looked around, and lowered his voice, "I'll take your word for it, this time. I'll ask my sister if she's seen it, and I'll let Seteth know in case it was turned in to him. Do your homework on some parchment for the time being, okay?"

His eyes brightened, and he nearly jumped in his seat. "Oh thank you Professor! Gosh, I was so worried!" He pushed his glasses back on his face, and beamed up at him.

Byleth had to take a step back, "Oh, no it's nothing. I know you always do work. Your journal is the light green one, right?"

"Yup, and it has a small leather strap to fasten it together."

He nodded, "Alright, I'll keep an eye out."

"Thank you again, Professor." He said with a sigh.

"Don't mention it." He gave him a pat on the shoulder before turning to the rest of the class. "Listen up Blue Lions, we've got a mission coming up in a few days. Tell your peers to get ready. I want to leave as soon as we can. I'll make official statements tomorrow morning. We'll be joining the Black Eagles so we'll leave together. You're all dismissed." He moved back to his desk to gather his things.

As expected, someone approached him.

"Um, excuse me, Professor?"

He turned to find Ashe looking up at him, "Yes, Ashe?"

"Will I be allowed on this mission?" He hugged his books to his chest, eyes downcast.

"Of course. You don't have to worry about any of that anymore. I think your participation in the last event cleared everything for you. Well done by the way. I could tell you are improving."

He flushed, eyes wide, "Oh! Thank you! That's really nice to hear." He smiled slightly, "it means I'm one step closer to my goal. I'll uh, see you later, Professor." He bowed his head and ran off.

Just outside of the class he could still make out his voice.

"You were right, Ingrid!"

She laughed, "See? I told you, you had nothing to worry about!"

Byleth couldn't help the small smile as he pulled the classroom doors shut for the evening. Ashe was too kind for an environment like this, but he had his reasons. He only hoped that the darkness of war wouldn't change him too much. Considering what happened with Lonato, he wondered if things had gotten any easier for him.

Perhaps he'd ask him later.

"Oh, Professor Byleth!" called a familiar voice.

Byleth didn't have to turn around to know it was Dimitri, but he did anyway of course. He was surprised by the smile he saw on his face.

"Professor! I want you to meet someone. Please, this way." He urgently waved him down the path.

Though he had a feeling who he was talking about he followed behind him quickly. He didn't think he'd ever seen Dimitri look so happy. It was nice, and he didn't want to put a damper on that.

Sure enough he led him to Rodrigue, who was just finishing a conversation with a courier.

"Ah, I was wondering where you ran off to Your Highness!" He laughed, and signed off on a few papers then handed them back to the courier who then made their exit. "I turned for a moment, and you disappeared!"

"Ah, forgive me!" Dimitri scratched the back of his head, "I wanted you to meet my Professor!" He cleared his throat, and gestured to him, "Rodrigue, this is Professor Byleth! He is the homeroom teacher for the Blue Lions."

Byleth smiled slightly, and looked over to Rodrigue who had a much bigger smile of his own. "It's nice to finally meet you, Professor." he held his hand out, a twinkle in his eye, "My son Felix has also mentioned you on occasion."

He shook his hand for the second time that day, "He has?" This was new information, whatever it was, he hoped it wasn't negative.

"Yes, all good things, I assure you. His Highness here likes to talk about you too, through letters of course. I haven't seen him for, how long?" he turned to Dimitri.

"About two years, actually." Dimitri said, hands fumbling with his jacket buttons, "but it was only one letter!"

Byleth smiled slightly, "I don't know what to say."

"Ah, forgive me Professor! I was just praising your skill."

"No, it's fine, thank you." What else could he say to that?

Rodrigue seemed to be able to catch on to the awkward atmosphere, because he cleared his throat, and gestured behind him. "That was a letter informing me that the bandits have retreated back into Kingdom territory. The Knights of Serios are still trailing them, but we have yet to pinpoint their exact location. Whatever village they do pass, however, is pillaged mercilessly."

"This sounds worse than we initially thought then." Byleth mumbled.

"The knights are trying to corner them somewhere. But for now, we can do nothing but wait on our side."

"Oh that sounds terrible, I wish we could stop them now." Dimitri sighed.

"It wouldn't be safe to send students out on a cat and mouse chase." Byleth said, "We'll probably end up joining the Golden Deer on this mission. It only makes sense. For now, we should focus on helping those we can. There are bandits in the area we can take care of in the meantime. I have to go sort some paperwork out." He nodded to Rodrigue, "It was nice meeting you."

"It's always a pleasure, Professor."

.

.

"Ugh! I can't believe how muddy everything is!" Lindhardt bemoaned for the upteenth time. "I might just fall, and suffocate in the muck."

Byleth rubbed his temples, it had rained pretty heavily right before they left, and Lindhardt, and a few of the girls complained way too much. But about different things.

"Ah! Mercie! Don't say such scary things!" Ashe covered his face, and hid behind Dedue.

"Oh, it's just a story, Ashe." she laughed softly.

Scratch that, most of the students were whining about something.

"Mercie, please. Don't say such awful things!" Lindhardt mumbled. "I'll never get to sleep at this rate!"

"Oh, you too Linhardt? It's all make believe, I promise." She folded her hands in front of her.

Everyone got quite all of a sudden, the only sounds being their footsteps as they sloshed through the mud.

"I don't know, I have rememberings of similar stories back in Bridgid." Petra fell back to join their little group. "There are great spirits that live, and breathe as we do living among us. They are having much fear, and respect in my land of home."

"What? So those scary stories are real?" Ashe gasped.

"Hm? I do not know what stories Mercedes is telling, but the spirits are filled with much love for their people, and—"

"Can they keep the rain away?!" Caspar shouted, nearly face planting in a ditch, "I hate getting rained on!"

"Well, sometimes they make the rain come," she tapped her chin in thought, "but why do you have want to make the rain go away? The rain is a wonderful thing for the land."

"Who knew that the great Caspar would be taken out by a few drops of water." Dorothea laughed, "I didn't know my big bro was afraid of water!"

His face instantly reddened, "I-I'm not!"

" Big bro ?" Ingrid turned around to face them, a smirk on her face. "Since when was Caspar delegated the big bro?"

"I am having confusions about why too." Petra looked between them.

Byleth sighed, "Guys, lower your voices. You can't forget we are on a mission. Anything can happen while out on the road."

"The Professor is right." Edelgard said, shaking her head, "this silly conversation should stop."

"I'm sure there is nothing wrong with a little bit of friendly conversation." Dimitri said, "as long as everyone is mindful of their volume, of course."

She crossed her arms, "Come now Dimitri, even you should know how important it is for us to be on our toes. Things can go awry in an instant."

He stiffened, "This is hardly a time where such travesty could occur. Besides, the Professor requested a change of volume. Not the halt of all conversation."

Byleth pinched the bridge of his nose, "Edelgard, it's alright. They can talk. I just want everyone to be aware is all."

He really wasn't cut out for the bickering. Behind him he could still hear the others going at it, albeit much quieter.

"I think Caspar is much closer to little brother material." Ingrid said.

Dorothea giggled, "That's what I was saying, but he didn't like that. So I promised to call him big bro, instead."

"Guys! I'm right here! Besides, isn't Ashe more of a younger brother?!"

"What! I'm a big brother!" Ashe protested.

"Yeah, he's much more responsible!" Ingrid said, "how many times has he gotten you out of trouble, Caspar?"

Dorothea gasped quietly, "Oo, that's right Caspar. Plus Ashe can cook so well! He might be the most responsible guy here!"

Ashe laughed quietly, undoubtedly feeling embarrassed. "I don't know what about that. I think Dedue is. He can cook as well! So good too!"

"Hey! It doesn't happen that often!" Caspar yelled.

"Volume, Caspar," Lindhardt sighed, "please."

Ingrid cleared her throat, "I don't know, I like your cooking way better Ashe. You balance the seasoning perfectly."

"Oh! I think my favorite cooking is Claude's!" Petra clapped her hands together, "He is having much skill with the recipes! I am having rememberings of—"

"I am still shocked a noble like him has the time to engage in such things." Ferdinand said, "surely there are much better ways to spend one's time."

"I doubt it." Ingrid scoffed, "Did you know he claimed to get up every day before the sun? That's the most ridiculous thing I've—"

Byleth sighed heavily, and turned around to face them, " That's actually true, Ingrid."

Though he had no idea why he always saw him up at that time, especially when he often saw a candlelight flickering from under his door late at night whenever he did the night patrol. Why he chose to offer such information was another question.

No matter how suspicious Claude seemed, honesty should at least be recognized when it is given, right?

"Claude's almost always up before me. I often pass him returning from the dining hall or greenhouse on my way to the pier."

That silenced everyone almost instantly.

Ingrid gaped at him silently.

"Now that is intriguing. I wonder what he's up to at such early hours." Edelgard mumbled.

"I bet it's training." Caspar shook his head, "why are all of you acting all shocked? I get up early to train! So does Felix!"

"Leave me out of your petty squabbles." Felix muttered.

"Guys, it's impolite to speak of someone in such a way when they are not present." Dimitri said, frowning, "let's go over our battle plans instead."

"That's a good idea, Dimitri." Byleth sighed, "Professor Hanneman? Would you care to join us?"

Hanneman looked up from his seat on the back of the carriage, and shuffled his notes together. "Ah, excellent, I was going to ask the same of you, but I distracted myself with some recent findings I forgot to organize."

"Can I sit this one out? I don't think I need to hear it— again." Lindhardt said, yawning dramatically, then climbed up on the carriage. He plopped himself next to Bernadetta, and laid down.

She yelped and scooted away from him, gathering her yarn in her lap, and away from his head.

Byleth frowned, he was ready to protest but was overcome by a yawn himself.

This triggered a train of yawning amongst all the students.

"Okay, pay attention everyone." He said, only slightly annoyed, "based on the weather we've experienced thus far, it's going to be foggy. I'll lead the front of the group, and Professor Hanneman will be in charge of the back. The goal isn't to kill anyone, but rather them than you. I'll give them an opportunity to come with us peacefully, but only one. If they do surrender after the fact, they must drop all weapons and lay face down on the ground. You guys are not to engage in conversation with any of the bandits. Use the trees for cover, and stay in your groups. " He turned to Ferdinand, "That goes for everyone."

Ferdinand laughed awkwardly, "Of course it does! Why would anyone dream of—"

Byleth sighed, and shook his head, thankful that was enough to silence him. "I'll let Professor Hanneman continue with the details."

Caspar groaned loudly, and a few others sighed, but no one verbally objected.

Good thing too, because Byleth was looking forward to some peace, and quiet for once. He knew from personal experience how much Hanneman actually enjoyed lecturing, especially with all the tangents he could go on. Turns out the road wasn't too different from the classroom, at least as far as Hanneman was concerned.

…

They reached the bandit camp on the second day, though he might have rushed them a little more than necessary. But the extra students offered more opportunities to chatter, and get distracted. Dorothea turned out to be just as bad in that regard as Hilda. The two would surely be a disaster if allowed in the same room for too long.

"Okay, Dimitri, Ingrid, and Edelgard take your places up here. Keep an eye out. If I draw my sword, that means they obviously refused to surrender. Then we move forward with securing the area."

They nodded, and quickly got into place.

Once everyone was stationed Byleth moved out onto the path, and approached the makeshift camp. One of the bandits spotted him and drew their weapon.

"I wouldn't take another step pal! You don't know what you're getting yourself into! Drop any valuables then put yer hands up 'n walk away!"

He paused, but kept his hands at his side, "It's my understanding that your camp here has been terrorizing the merchant's trying to get through. You have one opportunity to surrender, and come with me."

"Bah! Who do you think you are? You can't possibly take all of us!"

Byleth craned his neck to see how many others he could see from where he stood. At least from this distance, there was a small handful. It might be difficult, but not impossible. Definitely if Bala was here then there would be no question.

"I don't like your smug attitude! I'll have to chop it right off then!" He drew a tomahawk from his belt, and hurled it at him.

There was strength behind the throw, but still the speed of it was laughable when compared to anything his Father would throw at him. Byleth easily caught the small axe by the handle, and threw it back with twice the force.

The blade found it's new home wedged between it's master's eyes.

A glint caught his attention to his right, and he jumped back in time to dodge an arrow. The second he cut in half with his sword, the new blade his father had given him was surprisingly sharp. Even after being stored in a trunk for who knows how long, the sword required no sharpening.

Just behind him the students drew their own weapons, and a rather large ball of flames flew over his head.

The fireball slammed into the opposing Archer with enough force to knock him off the shawty lookout tower he stood on.

There was a rush of heat that pulsed through the trees when the archer hit the ground, the area smoking.

Byleth glanced over his shoulder, expecting to see Hanneman, but was surprised to see Hubert standing nearby, fingertips still glowing like dying coals.

"Keep it contained Hubert!" He shouted.

The grin that was on his face soured instantly.

There was no need for a forest fire after all.

"Stay focused everyone. Hubert, take out That mage over there." he pointed to their left. As far as he could tell, that was the only long distance fighter left of the bandits.

Things would be so much easier once they were taken out.

'We really only have one distance fighter in the Blue Lions?' Byleth thought of Ashe. In terms of balance, they were surprisingly lacking in comparison to the other two houses. Mercedes and Annette were mages, yes, but they focused mostly on healing. Annette especially had requested to learn the axe. Perhaps he should adjust some things around. It wouldn't be a terrible idea to give Mercedes a weapon either… he'd have to sort that out later.

"As you wish." Hubert muttered, and sent a more subdued fire spell at the mage.

It wasn't enough to take him out completely, but it gave Ingrid enough time to finish him off with her lance.

Quick and clean, without hesitation.

Hubert snorted in displeasure, but otherwise made no comment.

Once that mage was down the whole ordeal did in fact end quickly.

Byleth pushed through, taking down most of the bandits in little more than a few swings of his sword. Stragglers were cleaned up by Felix, Caspar, Ingrid, Hubert, and Edelgard.

A few started to surrender, and the other students went about dealing with them.

What looked like the leader of the group was found standing behind a group of young merchants, axe hooked under their necks.

"Don't come any closer! I'll lop their heads off!" He screamed.

"I'm only going to tell you once, let them go." Byleth warned, sheathing his sword, "You won't have time to regret it if you don't."

The man gasped, and shook his head violently, "I know you! You're one 'o the Ashen Demons!" His face paled, "where is the other one?! The wench!?" he looked around quickly, "You've slaughtered all my men, haven't you!?"

"No, we have a few in custody that yielded, Dimitri said, "you can join them if you lower your weapon."

"Don't come any closer!"

Byleth held his hand out, "Stay back Dimitri. I'll take care of this."

Hostage situations could end horribly in an instant, and the man was surely feeling threatened by so many opponents around him.

"Go back with everyone to the carriage. Keep an eye on the ones that surrendered, start any necessary healing. Wait for me there."

"But Professor—"

"Go."

"Very well." He mumbled, and started backing away.

Byleth turned his full attention back to the man. "Look, it's just you and me now. Don't do anything stupid."

"How do I know that wench isn't hiding in the bushes somewhere?! Do you think I'm a fool!? You never work alone!"

He scowled. He didn't appreciate the way this man continued to insult his sister. "She's not here this time." He took a step closer, but the man stole a dagger from one of the merchant's belts, and pointed it at him with his free hand.

For some reason, his head started pounding.

"What did I say?! I might have to take one if their heads off as punishment."

"You won't."

He started laughing loudly before falling serious, "You're right."

It was a quick flash, but the hand holding the dagger flicked back.

Byleth inhaled sharply, he wasn't aiming for him. He was aiming just off to the side.

The students!

He'd probably hit Dimitri in the back!

Something echoed in the back of his head, faintly.

'—Careful you idiot!'

Before he could think about it, he stepped in the way. There was a dull thud that rang out through his head, and a wave of warmth pulsed from right above where his armor stopped at his collar bone.

He drew his own dagger, and whipped it back, the force pushing it to the hilt in the man's forehead.

One of the younger merchants screamed. The sound hammered into his head just as a wave of blood filled his mouth.

On instinct, he yanked the blade out of his neck.

He couldn't breathe!

It felt like his chest was on fire, and the flames only spread up to his neck. Nausea attacked him almost as violently as the cough that shook his frame. He stumbled off to the side.

Faintly he heard someone call out Professor!

Everything spun one more time before he gasped for breath.

Cool, crisp air swept into his lungs.

His hand flew up to his throat only to find nothing there, save for a faint burning feeling from within.

"What the hell?" He spat out some remaining blood just as Dimitri returned.

"Professor?! Are you alright? What happened?"

"Nothing." He straightened, and motioned to the petrified merchants. "Help them to the carriage since you're here."

After Dimitri took the merchants away Byleth walked over to retrieve his dagger.

He wasn't fully aware just how hard he had to tug on it to get it out of the man's skull.

His mind was elsewhere.

Did his wound just heal? But how? He retained no healing abilities, as far as he was aware. He knew he'd been hit. He felt the impact, still tasted the blood.

Bala's power couldn't work at this distance, could it? But he still remembered everything, and his memory was always foggy when she used it. Something else then?

His hand went back up to rub at the spot, it was definitely healed... Frowning, he jogged to catch up with the others.

"Professor, there's blood on your face. You got injured?" Dimitri looked him over quickly, brow furrowed.

"Well, I guess I did." He mumbled, and helped the last of the merchants on to the carriage. "But, I'm fine."

He gasped quietly, "Oh, of course! Professor, your Crest!"

His Crest?

Hanneman had said his crest was special, but how rare was a healing ability?

He frowned, "I've never been healed before like that." Did it only happen in life or death situations? That couldn't be right. His sister had told him she saw him die once before…

"Crest abilities don't always show up right away. There is much we still don't know about them. Regardless, I'm so relieved you're safe, but I think you should let Mercedes look you over. Just in case."

"I guess so, but I'm really alright. I barely feel anything anymore."

"Is everything alright, Professor?" Hanneman asked once they regrouped.

"Yes. I'm fine—"

"His Crest saved him!" Dimitri explained.

Byleth frowned just as the glint formed in Hanneman's eyes.

"Did it?! Oh I'm most intrigued! Oh, but sit down here first." Hanneman grabbed him by the arm, and dragged him over to some trees at the side of the path. A few of the students sat there seeing to small scrapes.

"Mercedes, come check on Professor Byleth."

"I'm fine." He pulled his arm away from Hanneman's grip. He didn't like being dragged about.

"It won't take long Professor." Mercedes assured with a smile.

He sighed, but let her look him over. He didn't want the students to worry. He just wasn't looking forward to Hanneman's questions.

"Everything looks good." Mercedes announced, a few sighs of relief touched his ears. She pat his shoulder gently, then went to care for Bernadetta, who'd apparently twisted her ankle after tripping over a log.

"You are not useless Bernie!" Dorothea scolded. "You are precious!"

The girls crying was loud, and gave him a headache.

Byleth moved back to the front of the group, insisting that Hanneman watch the back. This way at least he could save the bombardment of questions for when they got back to the monastery. He was positive that Hanneman would likely lament his lack of instruments now anyway, and Byleth had his own questions. He just didn't want to ask them in front of all of the students.

…

The return trip back lasted three days, only because he agreed to let them relax a little since they were in no hurry. But he was eager to turn the bandits that were captured over to the Knights, and he was more than a little relieved when they finally did.

After all, he stayed up most of the trip in order to keep an eye on them in case they got any ideas.

The merchants were escorted back to their homes in the town, and rewarded them with whatever gold they could spare. He took the bag to later turn in to Seteth. Whatever he did with it then wasn't up to him, but most likely the funds would be redistributed to both him, and Hanneman for use towards class funding anyway.

The students were given half of next day off, and they all eagerly filed off to the bathhouse or their rooms. Caspar and Ingrid in particular made a beeline for the dining hall.

Byleth decided to look for his sister before he turned in for the day, though he was exhausted, he still wanted to ask her a few things.

Actually Finding her turned out to be harder than he thought, as he realized he had no idea where she spent her down time! He knew she was often in the greenhouse, that was the first place he'd checked aside from her room, and the classrooms. She wasn't in either of those places.

Just when he was going to give up to go rest, he spotted her in the gardens, near the back, sitting on the ground.

A little annoyed that he couldn't just cimb over the hedges that surrounded the place, he weaved through the provided pathway until he stood before her. She was reading a book, whatever was in it must be really engaging because she didn't even react when he cleared his throat.

"Bala?"

She gasped, and snapped the book shut, then wrenched her neck up to look at him. "Leth?!"

His brows shot up, "Everything alright?"

She nodded, and took a deep breath, cheeks tinted a light pink. "Yes." She cleared her throat loudly, "I didn't know you got back. How'd it go?"

He frowned, and glanced at the book, only to find no title. Odd. "It went alright. No major injuries."

"That's good to hear." She shifted slightly before gasping again, "Oh! Are you okay? I had a terrible dream… you or I, I wasn't quite sure, but one of us got stabbed in the throat. I woke up as soon as the blade pierced, but I've been worried. Sothis said something might have happened to you."

"I'm fine." He sat across from her, "but I did get stabbed."

Her eyes widened, "How then—"

"I guess it was this Crest of ours? I'm not sure. Has anything like that ever happened to you?"

"No," she shook her head, "not that I can remember at least." She frowned "How did it happen?"

"I was trying to convince the bandit leader to let go of the hostages he had. We weren't aware that people were captured, unless it was a new development." He sighed, and ran a hand through his hair, "I sent the students back to regroup so as not to make him feel threatened, but apparently my presence was enough." He shook his head, "he thought you were hidden in the bushes somewhere, and he threw his dagger. I could tell it would have gone over my shoulder, possibly hitting Dimitri. Instead of risking it, for some reason, I stepped into it."

Her eyes widened further, "Oh no." her hand ghosted up to her own neck.

"I yanked it out, knowing it wouldn't have helped, but I guess it did? It was seconds, but I felt like I was on fire, and then the pain was gone. Just a dull burning sensation left over. I'll probably go speak to Hanneman in his office later, I know he has questions, but I do too. I'm just really tired, and I need to sleep, but I wanted to see you first."

She sighed heavily, "I'm glad you're okay Leth. I was so worried about you." She moved a little closer, and reached out to him. Her hand hovered in the air for a few seconds before settling on his shoulder. "I was afraid I would lose you, and I would be unable to do anything about it…"

He glanced at her hand then gave it a few pats "I would have been fine, but I didn't want to risk Dimitri's safety. Next time I'll make sure he doesn't turn his back, even when retreating."

She nodded, "I would have done the same." She laughed dryly, "And I know, I shouldn't be so eager to throw my life away for people I shouldn't trust." Her brows furrowed again, "After you rest, go see Seteth. The situation with the missing Relic is rapidly changing. Your house might be asked to come with us."

"I thought as much." He stood, "I spoke with Rodrigue, Felix's Father, have you met him?"

"I have. He appears to be kind, but we can't know for sure." she smiled wryly, "all the Knights are eager to spar with him."

"Have you yet?"

"No. Though he expressed interest."

"I see. Same." He looked down at her again, "you know, I think Sothis yelled at me, but I'm not quite sure."

"Really? What did—"

Just then the girl popped up between them. "That's right! I was trying to warn you before it got ugly! But your dumb self refused to hear my call!"

His eyes widened in surprise, "Would you rather I let a student potentially die?"

She tsked, "No, of course not, but I was reaching out to you before that moment. Be more aware of my voice, Byleth! I don't know what will happen if you do lose your life. I would rather not find out!"

He blinked at her a few times then sighed heavily. "Alright, alright." How exactly was he supposed to do that though? "I'm going to sleep now. I'll see you later, okay Bala?"

Sothis hmphed, and disappeared.

"Okay." She answered quietly.

He glanced down at her once more before heading for his room. He was terribly tired, and could just clean up later.