Dorothea was… conflicted. On the one hand, she was thrilled that the tension between Sylvain and Mith had been resolved. (It hadn't been a bad tension, mind, but it had the potential to turn painful. She was glad it hadn't.) On the other, this was a novel situation. New, certainly. It wasn't unwelcome, per se, but she wasn't sure it was welcome either.
That said, she had nothing bad to say about her current situation.
"So… that's about it," Mith said softly, dragging his fingers through her hair as she reclined on his lap. He leaned back on the loveseat in his room as they cuddled.
"Mm. So… you want to see both of us?" Dorothea mused aloud.
Mith gently rubbed his nails against her scalp. "Yeah. If it's okay," he amended. "I mean, I get that he and I are a long shot to start."
Dorothea shot him a flat look. "Sweetheart, I asked you out under that same impression. Look where we are now. Unlike me, you also have the benefit of turning into a dragon at a whim. I think you'll be able to deal with any political complications if you're willing to work at it."
"What's the dragon thing have to do with it?" Mith asked in confusion.
"Well, how big of a dragon do you turn into?" Dorothea asked. "Aside from the dark magic and other-"
"I wouldn't fit in Garreg Mach," Mith said easily.
Dorothea paused. "The monastery?"
Mith made a negative sound. "No. The castle town."
"Uh."
"I think I fit the area coiled. My trip to Varley was less active flying and more stretching out - I'm fairly serpentine - and beating my wings a few times."
"Really?" Dorothea squeaked.
Mith paused. "No, no. There was more flying. I just used some charms to alter the winds vastly in my favor. Apen was fairly thorough in my magic training."
Dorothea relaxed. "Ah."
"I wasn't kidding about the size, though. I'm definitely capable of dispatching a fort on my own. But, you know, societal disturbance. And expenditure of energy. That sort of thing."
Good feeling gone.
"I see," Dorothea said faintly.
Mith paused. "Is that bad?"
Oh, my sweet summer child.
"It's certainly a lot. I don't… how do your siblings compare?" Dorothea asked, finding her voice again.
"Um. Seteth can't transform anymore, Apen's smaller and less destructive but he consumes less energy, Indy is like that but, well. He can't fly. Very, uh, turtle-like." Mith hummed as he massaged Dorothea's scalp some more. "I don't think Flayn can shapeshift, but she's my niece. And Rhea… Rhea's smaller than I am, but her power is more directly destructive. As a sky dragon, she can control air - not just wind like Apen, but air. She can suffocate people with a glance, disintegrate solid objects with superheated air, cool things into frozen stasis… yeah. She's definitely equipped to kick copious amounts of ass," he rambled.
"...so you and your sister are your scariest siblings," Dorothea mused.
"Eh. It takes more to get Rhea ready to go than Apen, but that's when the family's around. Without us she's… yeah, it's good we're here. But Apen is always good to murder, any time. In terms of disposition, Indy and Flayn are the safest, followed by Seteth, me, Rhea, then Apen. It's just Apen likes to take time to plan it out, which gives him a little time to course correct when he gets pissed since we get to him first. Or he finds out the bigger picture and amends for that." Mith sighed. "But we've moved from the main topic, I think."
Dorothea giggled a little. "I guess we have. Well, so long as it doesn't impact our time together, I don't mind. And as long as I'm not expected to share you with him, or spend time with him as a matter of course," she said after a moment. "Don't get me wrong, I don't dislike Sylvain. That said, I'd rather it not be assumed that I'm getting involved just because you are."
Mith made a noise of agreement. "That's fair. Your time is yours, and his is his. If you decide to give him a shot, your choice."
Dorothea let out a sigh of contentment as her eyes slid shut. "Glad we're in agreement. Little lower?"
Mith's hands trailed down, and gently massaged behind her ears.
"So how did you get this lovely furniture?" Dorothea asked.
"Apparently Rhea commissioned all of this stuff the day we showed up. She has a lot of practice masking in public, but in private… she dotes. A lot. So, perks of being related to a religious leader?" Mith sounded a little embarrassed. "She was surprised to see me, against all odds. It… takes a lot to put me down permanently. This has been proven. But, given what happened, it's understandable that she'd laid me to rest when she did." He laughed. "And she was, ah. Very happy to see me again."
Dorothea hummed. "I can imagine." Her voice turned wistful. "I do miss my mother sometimes."
Mith gently rubbed the base of her skull. "Oh?"
"I…" Dorothea trailed off. "I'd appreciate it if you kept it to yourself."
"Done," he said promptly.
She laughed a little. "Of course. Anyways, my father was a noble. He was having issues having children with Crests, so… my mother was one of the help. A lady-in-waiting. As you must have noticed, I have no Crest. You can imagine what followed." Her voice dropped near the end.
Mith's hands had gradually slowed, then gently cupped the back of her head. "You don't say."
Dorothea shivered. "Mith?"
"That…" Mith took a sharp breath. "Does he have a name?"
Dorothea sat up and looked at Mith, then felt her face pale.
His eyes had gone solid violet, gleaming with a low inner light. There were no pupils to be seen. Mith's mouth was drawn into a sharp frown, and his fangs poked out over his lower lip.
"Mith?" she asked softly, hesitantly reaching out her hand.
He blinked once, and slit pupils appeared in his eyes. A second, and they returned to normal as his fangs receded. "I'm sorry." He rubbed the back of his neck. "I got a little… well."
Dorothea sighed. "I noticed that. But yes, he put us out, and my mother died not too long after. That said, he's not a part of my life anymore, and unless that changes you're to leave well enough alone," she said firmly.
"I'll respect it," he said. "After all, it's not like Bernadetta's situation. Or Sylvain's, come to think," he muttered.
"Sylvain?" Dorothea asked, moving the subject to a safer distance.
"His parents aren't… well, they're not actively abusive, but I don't know how to feel about them. Neglectful, maybe? Definitely pressuring. And his brother… I'm going to say he falls under 'threat, neutralize if appears'." Mith scowled. "I gotta say, is it just, like. A human thing? To not take care of your kids? Well, no, Raphael had decent parents from what I've heard - they just kind of died. Ingrid's dad isn't… the worst…? And I think Felix's is okay, if a little mired in knighthood."
Dorothea dissolved into helpless giggles. "Kind of died, huh?" she gasped out. "Well yes, I suppose that's, that's a- oh Mith." She dropped her face into her hands. "But seriously-"
"I dunno about Linhardt's, that may be for the best. Caspar and Ignatz are second sons, and they definitely got the short end of the stick even if they weren't maltreated. I dunno much about Marianne, but she's not doing great. Hilda's fine. I think." Mith continued to tick off fingers.
"Are you really naming off my classmates by who has the least terrible home life?" Dorothea said incredulously.
"Mmyes?" Mith blinked at her innocently. "I mean, there are clear demarcations in how they've been treated-"
"Shh. Shh. It's fine." Dorothea held a hand up. "Just stop. I think I get the picture."
Mith shrugged. "Okay."
Dorothea turned around and leaned back against Mith. "So."
"So." He wrapped an arm around her.
"Have any fun ideas?" she teased.
"Um… wait. Is this a sex thing? This sounds like a sex thing," he said.
"I don't know about sex, but it's definitely flirting," Dorothea replied.
"Oh, okay. Not sure If I'm, uh, ready for- anyways! Kissing's good, right? Also I could use the practice."
Dorothea turned and smiled at Mith. He was flushed a deep red, and had trouble meeting her eyes. "I could definitely give you some pointers," she said in a sultry tone.
"Mmkay," he squeaked.
"Aw," Dorothea cooed. "Don't worry. I'll be gentle," she teased.
"Than-"
She shut him up rather effectively. Whatever he lacked in experience, he made up for in eagerness and ability to follow her lead. He really was a sweet guy.
Dorothea pulled back with a frown as a sharp, soft knock came from the door.
Mith wilted. "Drat."
"Later?" she offered.
Mith nodded excitedly as she giggled again. Dorothea sat up and let him make his way to the door, straightening his clothes before he got up.
He gripped the handle, and the door opened.
"Is now a poor time?" Hubert droned. "Lady Edelgard requested your presence."
Mith's eyes sharpened. "I can make time for her highness. Let me get some shoes on and I'll head over."
Dorothea cleared her throat. "Hubie, what would Edie need with Mith at this hour?" she asked sweetly.
"Matters of state," Hubert said crisply.
Mith hummed as he wandered back into the room. "Actually, 'Thea might be interested. I'd say she has a pretty good stake in Edelgard's plans herself. And I trust her, so."
Hubert gave Dorothea a considering look.
She crossed her arms, doing her best to hide her discomfort.
"Very well. If Mith vouches for you, knowing what he does, then I will assent to your presence at the meeting. You are, after all, a member of the Black Eagles House." He cast an eye down the hall. "Now, we should make some haste. Merely because we are not observed for the moment does not mean this will remain the case."
____________________________________________________________________________
Byleth shifted uncomfortably. "What is it you wanted to speak with us about?"
Edelgard von Hresvelg, heir to the Adrestian throne, gave a small smile. "Merely a few matters of state, my teacher. I'm glad that both of you were able to come."
Despite the late hour, she had secured a room in the local town's tavern, and the multiple settings indicated she expected company.
Claude leaned back. "I can't really see Edelgard doing anything too shifty, Teach. At least, not at this point." He smirked. "So… how did Hubert find Gaspard?"
Edelgard gave Claude an appraising look. "I'm unsure of the response you're looking for. Sadly, I'm afraid such questions will need to wait a touch longer." Her smile returned. "But not by much."
Claude's eyebrows raised. "Huh." He grinned. "Alright, princess. I look forward to it."
Sothis bobbed in place, eyes scanning the room. "We're alone, but there's someone coming down the hall," she noted.
"Who else is coming?" Byleth asked. "There's someone in the hall."
Edelgard looked to the door. "I personally invited yourself, Claude, and one other. Hubert went to fetch Mith. I felt he would need some time after his exertions in Gaspard. Tell me, did he encounter the lord's son?"
Byleth shook her head. "I don't think so. Sometimes, if a ghost feels their loved ones are safe or their business finished, they'll fade into a sort of… aura. He said as much to me on the way back."
Edelgard clicked her tongue disapprovingly. "I see."
"They might have been when he passed on, but that didn't remain the case," Claude pointed out. "Things can change for the worse."
Byleth suppressed a sigh as Edelgard nodded. "Aren't you supposed to be the optimist here?"
Claude chuckled. "C'mon, Teach. You've gotta see the whole picture - good and bad alike - if you want to get anything done."
There was a soft knock on the door and Byleth tensed.
"Enter," Edelgard called.
The door opened, and Dimitri looked in warily. "Ah. I don't believe I was followed…?"
Sothis' eyes narrowed as he closed the door. "He wasn't. Mith's coming with two people; I'd know my son anywhere. He's on the first floor."
Byleth cleared her throat, drawing the lords' attention. "Dimitri doesn't have a tail. Mith, Hubert, and one other are coming."
Edelgard frowned. "As a group?"
Sothis nodded.
"Yes," Byleth said. She shifted again.
"Please, sit," Edelgard said, gesturing to the empty chair next to Claude.
"Once Mith is here," Byleth said firmly.
Dimitri took the seat next to Edelgard unoccupied by Claude.
A few minutes later, there was another knock. Byleth looked to Sothis, who nodded. She moved to the door and opened it.
Mith, Hubert, and Dorothea were on the other side.
"Professor?" Dorothea asked, eyes wide.
Hubert cleared his throat. "If we may?" he said blandly.
Byleth stood aside and the three walked through. She watched as Mith slid into a chair next to Claude, leaving one for her and one for Hubert.
"...I will retrieve another chair and setting," Hubert said tiredly.
Dorothea folded her hands in front of her. "Thank you, Hubie," she said with a charming smile.
"Is there a reason you brought her?" Edelgard asked curiously.
Mith shot her a tired look. "I thought this would be more private, and assumed a different subject was going to be spoken on. I didn't expect, well. Not that it's not nice to see you guys," he said, quickly nodding to Dimitri and Claude.
"Aww. Well, I'll forgive the slip," Claude said with a wink. "And Dorothea and Edelgard? Really?" he teased.
Dimitri sighed. "I'd expect that from Sylvain," he chided.
"Actually, if that was the topic it would be Dorothea and Sylvain," Mith said primly. "If Edelgard's involved, it's strictly matters of state."
The room was quiet.
"I KNEW IT!" Sothis cackled.
Byleth checked her sword. "I'm going to stab him," she said in a dreamlike tone.
"Oh no you won't!" Mith said, sitting up straight and glaring.
Edelgard shot Dorothea a look. "Really?"
Dorothea shrugged. "Negotiations continue. Honestly, we're working on something decent, and I'm confident we can handle it. Besides, didn't your father have multiple spouses?" she teased.
Edelgard glanced downward. "He did."
Dimitri shook himself from his stupor. "El?"
"It… is of no importance."
Dorothea frowned. "I apologize Edie. It seems I've touched an old wound."
Claude was quiet, eyes sharp.
"It is of no matter. You could not have known," Edelgard said, more firmly. She smiled a little. "But I will accept the condolence nonetheless." She looked over to Mith. "Out of curiosity, what business did you seek to involve Dorothea in?"
Glyphs rounded the door, and spread across the wall.
"Ah," Edelgard said simply.
The door opened, and Hubert blinked at the magic around the room. "We've begun already?" he asked, bringing the chair over.
Dorothea sat. "Not quite," she said sheepishly.
Byleth watched as Hubert sat between Dorothea and Dimitri, then she sat between Dorothea and Mith.
Sothis floated overhead.
"Excellent," Edelgard said. "Now, to business. Mith, should I assume you are comfortable with those in the room knowing the true history of Fodlan?"
He nodded. "Yes."
Edelgard picked up her teacup. "Including your identity?" She drank.
Claude rolled his eyes. "It was the Luna that gave him away, huh?" he drawled.
Dimitri's eyebrows raised. "But you weren't-" He paused. "Hubert."
Hubert merely smiled.
"It was definitely dark magic beyond what we've seen you practice, but it's the only answer that makes sense…" Dimitri mused.
"I was wondering," Mith said mildly. He smiled. "Thanks for saving Lonato, Hubert."
Hubert inclined his head. "Given the information I'd gathered, it seemed the most prudent path of action."
Edelgard set her cup down. "So. You are aware that Hubert is the Minister of Shadow, and everyone knows you are Emyth'solan." She folded her hands. "The only question is… how to proceed. We know who the enemy is, and each of us has our own goals. It merely remains to determine how to make them align."
Dimitri crossed his arms. "I will accept no less than the utter destruction of Agartha," he growled. "The pain they've inflicted to Faerghus, to everyone - it is not to be borne."
Claude hummed. "They're a real roadblock to me, too." Byleth saw his eyes dart to Mith. Mith nodded. "For me, I want to open Fodlan's borders. Wear down prejudice through interaction, and end the isolationist policies of the church."
Dimitri blinked, coming back to himself. "Such as the borders with Sreng and Duscur? Well, if it could be done peaceably…" he murmured.
"I see no issue," Edelgard said primly. "If it could result in more peaceful relations with Dagda and returning Brigid to independence, then I will assent." She paused, looking downward. "And now I suppose I should state my own goals."
Byleth narrowed her eyes as Edelgard stared into her teacup.
"And your desires, El?" Dimitri asked.
"I want to upend the system of nobility in Fodlan. Tear down the system of Crests, and reduce the Church's power." Edelgard looked the rest of them in the eye. "To stop the abuse of the current generations by the past ones, and to create a meritocracy. Noble, commoner, Fodlan, foreign, man, woman - none of it would matter. Only whether a person could tend the task before them."
Dimitri's eyes were wide. "So that's why you asked me before. It's ambitious, but… a good number of my friends are bound by duty for their Crests, or have suffered for them." He nodded. "I see."
Claude hummed. "In all honesty, I understand the fixation on Crests. Even without Church influence, that kind of power is hard to put down. That said, I've been told that they aren't, ah, being used as intended," he said with a thoughtful look.
Mith leaned back, hands in his lap. "No kidding," he said darkly. "I can't see Rhea condoning what's become of the nobility. Ever."
Edelgard frowned. "What do you mean?"
"The Church has power, but only as much as its allowed, I think," Dimitri said slowly. "When it acts within its pattern of behavior and in the interests of nobility, it's left alone. Can you imagine what would happen if it reached over a certain level? Gaspard is one thing, as would be taking in a renegade noble. However, if far-reaching changes were attempted, or a major house like Varley tampered with - assuming knowledge of such ongoing maltreatment was known-"
"Or the shitstorm in Hrym," Mith grumbled. "I found out about that from Seteth. The yokel in charge is overtaxing the people and they're starving."
Byleth watched as Edelgard's gaze sharpened while Dimitri began to scowl. Claude crossed his arms.
"What would you propose?" Hubert asked in a silky tone.
Mith shrugged. "Well, on paper Aegir is in control, but in practice it's Arundel." He looked to Edelgard.
"...Arundel's dead," Byleth said flatly. "You told me he haunts her," she jabbed a finger towards Edelgard.
Dimitri's eyes widened. "What?" he croaked.
Edelgard glanced at Mith.
"You've got the cards you need," he said simply. "Just trust the people here enough to play them right."
Byleth swallowed. She knew Edelgard had conspired with the Agarthans, but…
"The tale is… complex. And I do not forsee me telling it a second time." The princess stared into her tea. "It begins when I left Fhirdiad. My uncle was already dead, and impersonated by Thales, leader of Agartha."
"How old… you were twelve, I think." Dimitri's eyes were downcast.
Edelgard hesitated.
"Let her speak, Dimitri," Mith said gently. "I don't know much, but I… it's painful."
Edelgard nodded slowly. "Vulnerability does not come easily to me, I am afraid. But I see the necessity for it," she admitted. She looked up. "Upon my return, I was experimented on by the Agarthans. Eventually, a second Crest was forced on me. I was the sole survivor of my siblings - the rest went mad from the pain or expired. There were ten, once."
Dimitri's head shot up, and his jaw dropped.
Dorothea covered her mouth as Byleth felt a chill run down her spine.
Hubert simply closed his eyes.
Claude's gaze didn't waver, but it turned cold.
Mith simply reclined, shadows dancing across his face that light couldn't penetrate.
"Since then, I swore to upend the system that brought that pain, to me and others. First the Church, then Agartha. Even if I had to use the latter to end the former. That said, I've been… made aware of different routes to my goal. The Church is not as almighty as they appear, and might in fact be turned to my aid." She gazed at Mith. "Given the revelation of your identity, it seemed prudent to call this meeting."
The shadows cleared, and Mith took a deep breath. "I see. Thank you for trusting us with this, Edelgard."
"Edie…" Dorothea whispered.
"They will burn."
Byleth looked to Dimitri.
The edge of the table slowly cracked in his grip as his eyes gazed ahead, unseeing.
"Dimitri," Mith said calmly. "Snap out of it."
He relaxed minutely and gingerly let go. A piece of table fell to the floor.
Edelgard exhaled. "This leads to a… difficult situation. My own position is precarious. I believe the Church is a more viable path with less bloodshed, but Arundel - Thales - holds a good amount of power in Adrestia. The nobles associated with him will back him, and to my own name I only have Bergliez and Hevring to back me, with a few other generals. Randolph, who is Count Bergliez' younger brother, Ladislava, and I may be able to count on a man named Metodey. Perhaps. Arundel has connections to Houses Vestra, Aegir, and Varley."
Byleth looked to Hubert, who leaned forward.
"We do have a bit of an edge in that Bergliez has the military and Hevring controls finance. However, between the manpower the other houses have and the capabilities of the Agarthans open movement would be…" he trailed off.
"I get you," Mith said in a darkly amused tone. "And that suits me fine."
Attention turned to him.
"I take it you have an idea how to turn this to your advantage?" Dimtri asked.
Claude grinned. "Intel. Unless someone shows up with ghosts in tow, Edelgard's our in."
Hubert frowned.
"Isn't that really dangerous, trying to play them like that? Even from what I saw in Gaspard, most of us would have problems with their elites," Dorothea said worriedly.
"It is a viable course of action," Edelgard allowed.
"And if we don't, they'll go full-out before we can muster our own forces," Byleth pointed out. She shifted as the younger members of the impromptu council turned to her. "An attack on Garreg Mach would put the townspeople at risk, and even if they can't loose their strongest weapons on the monastery, that doesn't account for any of their remaining infantry technology. Or anything they innovate."
"...your point is valid, distasteful as it is to admit," Hubert said bitterly.
"We'll have to choose what we act on, though," Claude pointed out. "Countering everything perfectly will raise suspicions, and we can only blame ghosts so far. So we need to pick the battles for the most meaningful victories."
Dimitri glowered. "I understand, as much as I dislike it. Both in the danger to El and our inability to simply root out the threat."
"That's guerilla tactics for you," Mith said with a humorless grin. "Make it too hard for your opponent to hurt you without hurting themselves or overexpending resources so you can win by attrition. Ramp up the stress and paranoia by striking from shadows and your enemy will eat themselves alive."
"Yeah… war's shit to start, but those are definitely the least fun tactics to have turned on you," Claude said with a grimace.
Edelgard inclined her head. "So. We are all aware of the situation. All that remains is to determine if this coalition is something we all desire."
"I'm in," Byleth said flatly. "These assholes have been after Mith and I for years, and I give a shit about my kids. If there's a better world to be made, I'll carve it with my sword."
"Aw, Teach. You'll make me blush," Claude teased. He exhaled. "But, for me - yeah. I'll do what I can with the Deer and Leicester."
"Faerghus will stand against the dark," Dimitri said promptly. "These dastards have harmed too many to ignore." He paused. "Not least of all, multiple people I care for."
Mith simply gave a fanged smile as people looked at him.
"As though that was in doubt," Hubert scoffed. "Are you pleased with this outcome?" His amused gaze tempered the sharp words.
Dorothea folded her hands together. "Looks like I've stepped into something pretty big, huh?" she said with a small grin.
"Sorry 'bout that," Mith said airily.
"No you're not," she said with a playful shove of her shoulder.
"So…" Edelgard said, looking at Dorothea.
"She has a stake in seeing the current system go up in smoke," Mith explained. "I figured you and Hubert had figured me out, and since she knew we'd talk about it. Didn't expect… well, this."
Dorothea coughed awkwardly. "Yes. Well, at least it's not something you have to keep from me." She looked over to Mith. "Now how are you going to explain this to Sylvain?"
Mith slumped.
"You won't have to explain anything after I stab him," Byleth said serenely.
Sothis finally spoke up. "Don't you dare! He's very sweet to him!"
Byleth ignored her.
"Please don't stab Sylvain," Dimitri said. "I'm somewhat partial to him."
"Non-lethally?" Byleth offered.
To his credit, Dimitri considered it for a moment.
"Mitri," Edelgard said warningly.
"Is he not a childhood friend of yours?" Hubert asked in mild surprise.
"Yes, but I wonder how you knew that," Dimitri said, relenting.
Claude coughed. "Right. How, indeed."
Dorothea giggled into her hands as Mith stared at the ceiling.
Byleth let go of her sword as Claude gave her a pointed smirk and Sothis fumed overhead.
Some battles just weren't worth fighting.
(She still planned to put the fear of Herself in the boy, however.)
(Or failing that, she'd get Jeralt or Rhea on the job.)
____________________________________________________________________________
I rubbed my forehead as I looked over my notes. Somehow, I'd managed to lock down a meeting with Dedue and Petra for the following week, and we could discuss the bare bones of their respective religious traditions then. This week was set to be a seminar on hand-to-hand and small arms, but…
Things had been good. Better than good, really. There was a coalition between the three lords, things were going well with Dorothea-
"So what are you planning for Sylvain's birthday?" Dorothea asked sweetly.
Fuck.
"I…" I trailed off.
"Had not thought about it." Dorothea leaned on her hands with a small smirk. "I doubt he'd want a full 'Blue Lions' party, but a little more than tea is called for, no?"
I slumped. "Probably. But what would he want?"
She hummed. "Well, shall we ask around?"
"Who?" I asked.
Dorothea smiled.
…
Ingrid paused as she brushed her pegasus' coat. "Wait. You and Sylvain?"
I swallowed nervously.
"And Dorothea?" she continued accusingly.
"For what it's worth, we're both aware and are okay with sharing," Dorothea said pleasantly. "Mostly. It's a work in progress."
I looked over to Dorothea with a slight frown.
She shrugged. "I mean, I'm fine with it," she said.
"So Sylvain's the one with a problem?" Ingrid said disbelievingly. "Sylvain. Mister 'I have three girlfriends or it's a slow day'?" She sighed. "I'd thought things were too calm when I didn't have to look after another girl he'd left…" she muttered.
"...he didn't tell me," I said quietly.
Dorothea pat my shoulder. "He doesn't have a problem, really. I think he's just not used to this sort of thing," she said soothingly.
Ingrid shook her head. "Regardless. I assume this is about his birthday?"
"Yeah. I mean, I don't know too much about his likes or dislikes, and I'd like it to be at least kind of a surprise," I said with a shrug.
"I see. It's been… time… since we were close. That said, you picked the best of relatively poor options," Ingrid said with a wan smile. "Felix and he are fighting, and Dimitri and he were… well, they were close enough. Dimitri was the most independent of us, and so we ended up being the ones Sylvain doted on." She looked at me. "Let's see…"
"He and Felix are fighting?" I asked, furrowing my brow.
"Sylvain's never been the kind to bring his problems to others," Ingrid said exasperatedly. "I doubt resolving that would make for the gift he'd want, however."
I grumbled a little. "Fine."
Dorothea gently shook my shoulder. "That's a concern for later," she said warningly. "Ingrid?" she prompted.
Ingrid's smile returned. "Well, I will say that I'm pleased someone like you is looking out for him." It faded a little. "Though I do wonder how his father would react…"
"I can pass my Crest through blood transfusion. He can sit and spin. Even if Sylvain and I don't work out, his heir will have their damn Crest, if it's needed that badly," I bit out. "I'm not going to sit back and watch someone be imprisoned by their blood."
Ingrid stared at me, shock bleeding through her expression.
"Off-topic, sweetheart," Dorothea said with a laugh in her tone.
"I. Indeed," Ingrid said with a sharp shake of her head. She laughed a little. "He can't have any idea what he's signed up for," she said in amusement.
I crossed my arms and frowned.
"Don't pout," Ingrid said with a wave of her hand. "Let's see… he's always been fond of strategy games. I don't recall him having a set of his own in the monastery, however. He also appreciates beauty. Song, paintings…" she trailed off. "He was also a voracious reader. Any new book would be good." She smiled sheepishly. "Apologies. My knowledge is some years out of date. Mostly I've seen him pursuing women, so beneath that… well. Best of luck?"
"How fascinating," a deep voice drawled. "Whatever conspiracy could be hatched here?"
"Hubie," Dorothea said chidingly.
Hubert had snuck up on - well, most of us. I'd noticed, but figured he would only approach if needed.
Though the way he was looking at that pegasus…
"Hubert," Ingrid said politely. "Is there something we can help you with?"
"Merely indulging my curiosity," he said idly. "Ingrid isn't one of the knights you tend to fraternize with." That, he directed at me.
"Well, she knows Sylvain best, and his birthday is coming up…" I said with a grin.
"Ah. Gathering intelligence, then," he said.
"That's… well, not untrue, but…" Ingrid frowned.
Hubert shifted. "I did actually have questions for the two of you," he said after a moment.
I perked up. "What's up?"
"Wait, me?" Ingrid asked.
"Well, I doubt it's me," Dorothea teased. "Unless he has aspirations to become a baritone in the opera."
"Sadly, no," Hubert said dryly. "Yes, you and Mith. I heard tales of a class of pegasus knight that utilized magic from afar. I was… hoping… that some instruction could be possible." A slight grimace crossed his face.
"That would be an amazing force, assuming it was possible," Ingrid commented with wide eyes.
"Oh yeah, dark fliers kicked all kinds of butt in the old days. It started predominantly as a woman's profession, but there were more men as time went on." I waved my hands. "I can do a little of it, but my flying isn't quite good enough to qualify. Magic yes, spearwork and flying no."
Dorothea shot me a sidelong look.
"Fascinating," Ingrid said, pleased. "Well Hubert, I'd gladly show you how to handle pegasi. With Mith's help, of course."
Hubert nodded stiffly. "Thank you."
I glanced at Dorothea, and she shrugged.
"You okay?" I asked.
"I… have difficulties with heights. Though I've been fond of pegasi from a young age, I… well. We all have areas to work on." Hubert glanced downward for a split second.
Ingrid made an understanding sound. "I see. Well, I was fairly uneasy myself when I started, so there are some techniques we can work on to mitigate that. Also, isn't Professor Manuela your house leader?"
Hubert scowled.
"Yeah, I can see her doing the 'mom' thing about it," I muttered.
"Really?" Dorothea said disbelievingly.
"...I have no desire to be coddled," Hubert said stiffly.
"I mean, at least you didn't go to Rhea, or worse, Seteth. Well, actually, Seteth might not be the worst option…" I mused. "But yeah, Rhea has… severe mother hen issues."
"Something about 'draining their blood into the goddess' soil'?" Ingrid remarked.
"Oh, I remember that," Dorothea said with a wince. "Don't think that was quite it, but, ah, very close."
"Point being," Hubert growled, "I would prefer a peer to start with until I have some proficiency."
I gave a thumbs up as Ingrid nodded with a slight smile.
He exhaled. "My gratitude," he said with a slight bow. "Should you need my assistance, I would be glad to repay the favor. Within reason," he added in a foreboding tone.
I shrugged. "I don't think Ingrid's the sort to take advantage, so it should be fine," I said with a grin.
"Also, I'd recommend working on your lance technique. In case you run across another flier you can't simply snap out of the sky," Ingrid said as Hubert arched his eyebrow.
'Snap?' Dorothea mouthed at me.
I shrugged.
"...I suppose I've run out of excuses, then," Hubert said with a dour scowl.
The girls and I exchanged a look. "Meaning?" Dorothea asked.
"Ferdinand has been… insisting… I take up a martial weapon. And equally insistent that I let him get me up to par. 'It would not do for the Minister of Household to be caught unaware by a mageslayer. If not I, then speak to Mith and learn of proper knife combat!'" he said, dropping into a mocking tone near the end.
"...It's how he shows he cares?" I said weakly.
"Actually, it is," Dorothea said with a small laugh.
"Don't you despise von Aegir?" Hubert asked mildly.
"Mm. Ferdie and I had a chat, and I tried the whole 'talking things out' thing I did with Mith. It turns out there was a misunderstanding on both parts. I wouldn't say we're bosom friends, but we get on," Dorothea said with a smile.
"Regardless. If he tries to lord this over me, I will gag him with his own beloved teapot," Hubert said darkly.
"Can I watch?" Dorothea said gleefully.
"I thought you said-" Hubert began in an amused tone.
"That does not mean it would not be hilarious to see," Ingrid pointed out. She frowned at our collective surprise. "What? I can have a sense of humor as well!"
____________________________________________________________________________
"Rain on my birthday, huh?" Sylvain said with a wry smile. "Figures." He sighed as he looked outside, scratching the back of his head.
The water poured down in a steady stream, the sky dark for as early in the day as it was. The rhythm of the drops on the roof was soothing, but being caught away from his dorm wasn't an ideal situation, especially given his uniform wasn't made for this sort of weather.
Served him right for lounging in the library, he supposed.
"There you are!"
Sylvain blinked as Mith strode up, smiling brightly. He wore his usual dark clothes - sometimes Sylvain wondered if he collaborated with Hubert for fashion, but given the utter lack of formality… yeah, no. He also had a satchel slung over his shoulder and carried a pair of leathery contraptions.
"Oh, these are umbrellas. Like parasols but good for more than sun," Mith said, handing one over.
Sylvain traced the wooden handle and slid his hand under the frame. "So…?"
"It opens, and keeps you dry," Mith said. "Like so." He fiddled with a latch and pushed, opening the device into a stretch of cover. He held the stick upright, and the frame spread out overhead as he stepped into the rain.
Sylvain eyed the contraption. "You made these?"
"Mm-mm. Apen did. They're an old design. Normally the frame would be metal instead of wood, and the material would be… different. But wood and leather were what was available, so." Mith twirled the umbrella, sending water scattering. "Coming with?"
Sylvain smirked, tucking the spare under his arm and stepping quickly under Mith's umbrella. "Looks like there's room enough for both of us here."
Mith grinned. "Alright, then."
He didn't say anything else as Sylvain slid an arm around them as they walked. They passed through the garden, Sylvain enjoying the way he leaned into his side as the umbrella kept the rain off of their heads.
"This is nice," he commented softly. "In Faerghus, I didn't go outside too often during Garland Moon. Between the wet and the fact it was still cold - Gautier's almost always cold - it wasn't exactly safe. The whole 'white rose garland' thing didn't really happen. We import grain and vegetables, and most of the produce is meat. Plants… only the really hardy ones last."
Mith leaned his head on Sylvain's shoulder. "And it still rained?"
"When it wasn't ice or snow, yeah." Sylvain gently began to rub circles on Mith's arm with his thumb absently.
"All the way in Garland Moon?"
"Ehh. Depended on the season. Sometimes we'd get some light ice, but... you got me," Sylvain said with a small laugh. "It was still disgusting outside, though. Cool and muddy."
"You don't strike me as the sort who enjoys dirt," Mith said in amusement.
Sylvain shuddered. "No, no I don't." He scowled. "Small, dirty spaces and I don't mix."
Mith was quiet for a moment. "Sorry."
"Hm? No, hey, it's fine. I'm fine," Sylvain said with a quick squeeze.
"If you say so."
Sylvain smiled as he felt Mith's free arm wind around his waist, hand splayed over his hip. "I do."
"So…" Mith trailed off, and Sylvain noticed the flickers in the air.
"So?" he said curiously. "I guess you're not just here for pleasure."
"Well, I did want to see you for your birthday… but there is something else I wanted to talk about before the festivities," Mith admitted.
"Alright?" Sylvain tightened his grip a little, trying to be reassuring.
Mith exhaled. "So Dimitri, Claude, and Edelgard are forming a coalition against the remnants of Agartha. That's the good news."
"And the less good?" Sylvain asked. He knew enough that nothing went that perfectly.
"Edelgard was in league with them to destroy the Crest system. Now that they aren't needed - I'm sure I can wrangle something with Rhea's support and that of everyone in the Officers' Academy - she's stuck. Thales is impersonating her uncle and has at least three other critical nobles in his pocket. Any attempt to uproot them would cause a civil war for Adrestia." Mith lifted his head and gazed forward. "So we're still in a shadow war, but the lines are… clearer? I guess."
Sylvain rubbed Mith's arm. "More good than bad there. Still not optimal, but it's a workable situation."
"Tomas told me about some more of Solon's movements, but he isn't making any major shifts soon. There's an assassination threat they intend us to find to distract us on the Rite of Rebirth, and he's preparing to move on Remire for… something. Flayn's learning some self-defense, but I think they might still try to take her." Mith frowned. "Even with this information, I still have too many questions."
"Remire's worrying. Flayn we can account for between your ghosts and Apen's wards; I don't think she leaves Garreg Mach anyways. The threat as distraction next month should be our priority, since it's what we know the most about," Sylvain thought aloud. "What are they angling for? What's open then that isn't on other days?"
Mith stilled. "Seiros' Tomb. That… oh."
Sylvain stopped as he came to a halt. "What?" he asked gently.
"That's the only place. The only place I can think where Rhea would put… her."
Sylvain turned Mith towards him, gently placing his free hand on his cheek. "Talk to me. What's going through your head?"
"The Sword of the Creator. Sothis' body. It's in the tomb." Mith spoke in a dull, soft tone. He removed his arm from Sylvain and placed his hand on his chest.
The rain fell in the silence.
Sylvain gently stroked Mith's cheek, and moved his other arm around his shoulders.
His eyes flickered. "Right. Sorry, this is… this is your day, and I'm ruminating. Sorry."
"It's okay. We can do fun stuff to take your mind off of it, but this is important," Sylvain said firmly.
Mith shook his head firmly, grasping Sylvain's hand. "I'd like to…" He coughed. "Right. So I'm taking you to a nice meal in town, and I have a gift. We're going to spend time together, have a nice day, and it'll be fine. This will keep." He smirked. "I'm pretty sure I'll remember this sort of thing tomorrow, so no need to worry about forgetting."
"You're treating me?" Sylvain said with raised eyebrows, closing his hand around Mith's. "You know I'm kind of rich, right?"
"I have lots and lots of bandit money," Mith said primly, back to normal. He turned towards the exit of the monastery towards the town, arm back around Sylvain's waist. "Supply runs are highly lucrative."
Sylvain laughed as they continued onward. "Really?"
"Yes. Also, I want to treat you nice because I like you," Mith said. He stiffened as Slyvain brushed his lips against his cheek.
"Still a little shy, hm?" Sylvain teased. "That's fine. We have time."
Mith flushed. "Urgh. You're lucky you're cute," he groused.
"Oh? And Dorothea?" Sylvain asked, waggling his eyebrows.
"I feel like my boundaries with her are a little clearer than here," Mith admitted. "She's easier to figure out where to start and stop. You… you're pretty good at hiding what you think, and I'm not sure where I stand myself. Like, I like you, and this, it's just… nerves? Nerves."
Sylvain exhaled. "I can accept that," he said wryly. "So… nerves. But you trust me?"
"You wouldn't hurt me if it was avoidable," Mith said with full confidence.
Sylvain swallowed hard. "Yeah. You got that right."
His eyes widened as he felt the familiar-yet-different sensation of lips brushing his cheek. They were more chapped than he was used to, but then he had less experience with men than women. It had happened, true, but… fleeting, even in comparison to his dalliances with women.
"What brought that on?" Sylvain asked, laughing a little to banish the unease that accompanied the rush of warmth in his chest.
"Felt like it," Mith chirped.
Sylvain glanced at him, and Mith gave a small smile.
Sylvain smiled back. "Well, feel free to lavish affection on me whenever you like," he said with a wink.
Mith laughed.
____________________________________________________________________________
"I'm stuffed," Sylvain groaned, clutching his stomach. "I'll need to put in plenty of hours in the training ring to work this off," he said with a cocky smirk.
"Hm. You've been going more often?" I asked, leaning over the table.
"There, the library, other places. I'm working on my magic, my horsemanship, and my lancework," Sylvain said, leaning forward with an easy smile.
"Dark Knight?" I asked.
"Dark Knight," he agreed.
I fiddled with my satchel. "Well, I'm glad to hear that. I like having you around, and if you're going to be doing the whole fight-thing then more training is better."
"Fight-thing?" Sylvain said with a laugh. "How eloquent."
"It's charming, don't lie. Also keeps people off-guard," I said with a wink.
He smirked. "Not bad. Though, you're a bit old to play at being so immature."
I shrugged as I fished his gift out. "I'm the baby of the family. Strictly speaking, Flayn was born after me, but I was younger than her for a long time. Age and time work funny for us," I said softly, blocking in our conversation with a silent illusion.
"Mm. Gotcha," he said with a nod. "What's that?"
I placed the board on the table. "It's something I commissioned from Apen. It's a traveling chessboard. The pieces will stick to the surface so they won't fall, and you can put them inside the hollow before you close it for transport."
Sylvain's face lit up. "That so?" he said in a pleased tone. He picked it up and looked it over. "How long did it take to make this?" he murmured.
"Ehh. For anyone else it'd take a couple months, enchantments and all." I scratched the back of my neck. "But, you know. Apen."
Sylvain laughed, shaking his head. "It's great," he said, eyes squinting with the force of his smile. "How'd you know I like strategy?"
"I asked Ingrid. It was Dorothea's idea."
"Good call," Sylvain said, flipping the board open and looking over the pieces. "I'd have figured you'd try Felix."
"Ah. Dorothea knows Ingrid better, and apparently it was a good call." I rubbed the back of my neck. "If you want to talk about it, we can, but it's your night. So."
He smirked, closing the board. "I appreciate it. If I can't get him to talk to me in the next few days, I might drag you into it anyways, but… I'm gonna give it one more shot on my own."
"Mmkay. Felix can be kind of prickly. Justifiably so; he's been through a lot. Though…" I trailed off.
"He could stand to loosen up?" Sylvain suggested.
"I was going to say remove the stick from his posterior, but that works," I said with a shrug.
"Pff!"
I snickered as Sylvain thumped his chest after choking on air.
"You jerk," he wheezed, grinning.
"I regret nothing," I said haughtily.
Sylvain shook his head. "Alright. Wanna head out?" he asked.
I nodded, fishing the coin out of my satchel and putting it on the table. As we left, the barmaid scooped it up and gave us a jaunty wave.
"G'night!" I called as we stepped out.
Sylvain wrapped an arm around my waist as we walked down the road.
"Rain stopped," I noted.
"Yup."
I put my arm around him, enjoying the contact as I leaned my head on his shoulder.
"Don't put a crick in your neck like that," he teased. "You're not that much shorter than I am."
"Didn't you tell me to give you affection whenever not hours ago?" I shot back.
Sylvain squeezed me a little. "Maybe so." He smiled. "Tonight was nice. Next time, it's my treat though."
I hummed. "Maybe."
"No maybe," Sylvain said. "I want to spoil you too, you know. Actually, when's your birthday?" he asked suddenly.
"End of Red Wolf - the thirtieth day," I replied. "So not for a bit." I looked sideways at him. "Besides, I didn't spoil you. It was dinner and a gift, that's normal birthday stuff." I paused. "I think."
"You think?" Sylvain said incredulously.
"I mean, By never celebrated her birthday - she picked it out, really - and I didn't feel right celebrating mine if she didn't. Jeralt never did, and the mercs… well, they didn't engage with me at the best of times. And before… well, after… there wasn't a lot of time to track birthdays." I looked down at my feet as we kept walking.
"So, leaving your 'sister' and her supposedly immaculate conception aside," Sylvain said drily, "there is a lot to unpack there. Do you celebrate your birthday? At all?"
"Alright, first off, Jeralt made no bones about where By came from. He just 'forgot' her birthday because we were on the run from the church for reasons which no longer apply," I said hotly.
"Clearly," Sylvain said in wry amusement, rubbing circles on my hip with his thumb as we walked.
"Second, it's not that I don't want to celebrate, but I just… haven't had time. Or a lot of people to do so. You know." I scowled as I felt my cheeks flush.
I stopped suddenly as Sylvain came to a halt. Slowly, he took my shoulders and turned me to face him.
"Remember what I said? That you're worth caring for too?" he said firmly, eyes locked on mine.
"That's not-" I began.
His lips brushed mine lightly. "None of that, now," he murmured.
I swallowed nervously.
He pulled back. "Still?" he said with a smile.
I grit my teeth. "No, I'm being stupid. Sorry, I." I shook my head and leaned forward.
I blinked as he gently cupped my cheek, keeping me from moving any further.
"Only if you're ready," he said firmly. "I'm not the kind of dastard to push someone past what they're comfortable with."
I sighed. "I want to be."
"Mmhm. We'll take it slow," Sylvain said, pulling me close. We held each other for a few moments.
"Um… would you do me a favor?" I asked, pulling back a little.
"Sure," he said easily.
"Stay the night with me?"
His eyes widened.
"Not-! So, I. I have nightmares. I didn't, at Gaspard. You… helped. A lot. I don't think I've felt that rested in a long time," I said quickly. "Though, I mean. Eventually, yes. Definitely."
Sylvain laughed, shaking his head. "Well, I'd hope so, eventually." He smiled. "You sound pretty emphatic on that."
"You're handsome and I like touching you," I said bluntly. "And you feel nice. And smell nice."
He laughed again, dropping his chin on my shoulder. "No euphemisms or poetry, straight to the point, huh?" he said cheerfully.
"Nope. I can try, but blowhard poetry is more Indy's thing. Poor Manuela…" I muttered.
Sylvain leaned back, bumping his forehead into mine. "Mmhm. So, those nightmares…"
"No, I haven't told anyone else about them, and I don't want to worry them. There's enough going on without…" I trailed off. "Anyways. I told you, didn't I?"
"And people will talk if I stay with you too often," he said pointedly.
"It doesn't have to be all the time. Just… sometimes. I mean, I functioned fine before, so." I looked in his eyes. "Besides, they can talk all they like. It never meant anything before, and it doesn't have to now. I don't hurt anyone who doesn't have it coming, so I'll live my life on my terms. No one else's."
We separated, but Sylvain kept a firm grip on my hand.
"Mind swinging by mine before we head to yours? I'd like to pick up some sleep clothes and a change for tomorrow," he said softly. He grinned. "Well, well. Dinner and a night in with you. This really is a great birthday," he said, eyes roaming up and down.
I rolled my eyes. "Anyways."
He leaned in, lips touching mine.
I tilted my head, and kissed him back.
"Mm. There we go," he said.
"Dorothea's and I have been… well, making out. I guess it counts as live practice? Kind of?" I muttered.
"Heh. Now there's an image," Sylvain said wistfully. "She good?"
"Wonderful. Same as you," I said honestly.
He bumped my shoulder with his. "Flatterer. Go on," he said with a grin.
We wandered further into the monastery together.
It was an evening I'd treasure.
____________________________________________________________________________
Mac sat near Tomas - Solon's - unconscious form, feathers perfectly arranged.
Flayn's hands dropped, the last of his injuries purged. "Why are we doing this again?" she whispered harshly.
"Macuil and Emyth'solan are reaping too much information to dispose of him so soon," Indy boomed quietly. "Also, I don't want to explain to Seiros that I crushed his spine into his windpipe for trying to spy on our baby brother's date."
Flayn gave him a flat look. "I meant with 'Mac' instead of Apen, but that is informative. Should I tell Father?"
Indy shot Mac an inquisitive look.
The goose blinked.
Runes covered the aged man's head, and faded.
"Well, I think he just did it because he could," Indy admitted. "And probably not."
"Very well," Flayn huffed. "I will inform Mith, however."
Indy shrugged. "As you will."
Mac shifted form, turning into Apen. "He'll likely want to take you into his confidence for his own schemes. I think you'll be of great aid to him," he said coolly.
"The goose form? For this?" Flayn said flatly.
"I wished to make mischief," Apen said haughtily.
"Counter-intelligence is mischief now?" Indy asked curiously.
Flayn gave a despairing look to her two older uncles. "...I shall retire for the evening. Good night, uncles. Try not to wake Rhea or Father."
"Mm. Perhaps I should steal some of the Hevring brat's materials again…" Apen mused. "Or his pillow. That could do."
"Macuil," Indy chided.
Flayn threw her hands into the air as she stalked out. "Good-night."
She marched through the halls, then froze as she saw Mith pulling a grinning Sylvain into his chambers.
"Mith!?" she hissed.
He peeked out of the room as Sylvain scrambled in.
She put her hands on her hips. "An explanation!?" she whispered harshly.
"Erm. He and Dorothea are being nice and sharing?" he said timidly.
Flayn relaxed. "Oh?"
Mith nodded. "I talked with them and everything."
"Well, just so long as no one is being mistreated," she said firmly. "Also, what are you plotting? Apen mentioned something…"
Mith rubbed his forehead. "...I'll tell you soon. Actually, there's another person I need to talk to, so maybe then? Save time and words."
Flayn nodded. "Very well. Go rest." She narrowed her eyes. "You will be resting, yes?"
"Yes, Cethleann," Mith grumbled.
"Sleep, Emyth'solan," she retorted. She froze. "Wait."
"Night!" Mith squeaked, making to dart into his room.
"Wait, he knows!?" Flayn flung herself into the doorway.
"Yeah. Top secret, no talking," Sylvain said, pulling a sleep shirt on.
Flayn relaxed. "Ah. Does Rhea know?"
"No."
"Ah. So-"
"Goodnight, Cethleann."
Flayn pouted. "Very well. Harrumph. We will speak of this on the morrow."
Mith gave a tired, two-finger salute as he shut the door.
As Flayn wandered to her own chamber, she paused and considered. "Wait. Who else knows?"
Mac padded alongside her, and looked upwards.
She raised a finger and opened her mouth.
"honk."
"Firstly, I have not the slightest how you did that so quietly. Secondly, if they were a true threat…" she trailed off.
Mac blinked.
"Enough with the goosery! Speak like a person!" Flayn seethed quietly.
Mac padded down the hall, waddling primly.
Flayn pulled on her curls in frustration, then stormed the rest of the way to her room and slammed the door.
