Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Heavy, isn’t it? All of Fódlan in your hands?”

“You’re not strong enough. You weren’t strong enough for your siblings.”

“You’re weak. A liar, a cheater, a scared dictator.”

“In more ways than one.”

“I have ruled since the dawn of time. What makes you think you can do better than me?”

“What makes you think you’re worthy of your kingdom?”

“What makes you think you’re worthy of yourself?”

“What makes you think you’re worthy of me?”

——————————————————-

Byleth awoke to breathy sobbing. She tried to shake the sleep out of her head, at least as much as she could. “El? You ok?”

“B-by…”

“Hey…deep breaths, ok?” Byleth sat up to join Edelgard. “Bad dream? Um…was it your siblings again?”

“No, it was…Rhea. And Unc—Thales. And Dimitri and…um…” Edelgard’s words turned into sobs, and before Byleth could offer anything more, the two were interrupted by a knock at the door. 

“Who is it?” Byleth called, not presently caring if she woke anybody else up.

“Helene. May I come in?” came a familiar voice from the door.

“Y-you may.” Edelgard said in between sobs. Helene half walked, half ran through the door and to the bedside. 

“Lady Edelgard, are you alright?” Helene took a deep breath herself. “Could I get you some tea?”

“Thank you. Both of you. But I think I need some time alone right now.” Edelgard left the room in the same way Helene had entered. Helene turned to follow Edelgard, not noticing the firm grip on her hand until she felt the pull from behind, stopping her from moving more than a foot. The nasty expression she shot at Byleth was met with a reassuring one. 

“Let her go, Helene. She just needs a minute, that’s all.”

Helene scowled. “Fine. I suppose Shez will have seen her on her way out. She can follow her—just to ensure her safety.”

Byleth sighed. “Very well.” Helene turned away from Byleth and growled, burying her face in her newly freed hand. 

“I’m worried about her. Over the past few weeks—I know there’s something wrong, but she won’t talk to me!” Helene’s voice dropped to a whisper. “Why won’t she talk to me?”

“I know that feeling.” Byleth replied. “Edelgard likes to take things into her own hands. She thinks she’s the only one on her side. Back at the Officer’s Academy—“

“That was different! I was her best friend! I…thought I was…”

“Helene, are you crying?” Helene was one of the only people who truly appreciated Byleth’s bluntness, especially when it came to emotional matters. 

“Hormones, that’s all.” Helene sniffled. Unfortunately, to Helene at least, she wasn’t the only one gaining emotional intelligence.

“Are you sure? If there’s something wrong, you can tell me…”

Helene was still turned away from Byleth’s concerned face. “I don’t mean as much to her as she means to me.” Helene sobbed into her hand. “I’m just some clingy, creepy man—“

“ Helene.” Byleth had made her way around to face Helene. Byleth wrapped Helene in a tight hug—it was an unfamiliar experience for both of them, but it felt right. “You have no idea how wrong you are.”

Before Helene could process Byleth’s words, Shez barged through the door. “Professor, Marchioness.” She said, saluting.

“At ease. Your report?” Helene inquired.

“Her Majesty made it safely to Dorothea’s. I assume she’ll either stay the night there, or Dorothea will escort her back.”

“I hope she comes back.” Byleth thought aloud.

“Oh? Is somebody jealous?” Shez smirked.

“Don’t you dare accuse Her Majesty of something so crude.” Helene shot back.

“Hey, it was just a joke…”

“Jealousy, huh?” Byleth looked contemplative. “I guess that’s another one for New Emotions Bingo.”

“See, she thought it was funny!”

“You’re insufferable.” Helene sighed, half-serious. “One of my informants discovered another Agarthan bunker. It would be a pleasant alternative to sleep, if anyone is interested in joining me…”

“Sure!”

“Ok.”

“I’ll wake Jeritza.” Helene said with a devilish grin.

———————————————————

It was Winter, yet the warm, humid summer winds of Brigid had not yet given way to the crisp chill from Sreng. Thus, it was almost as stuffy outside as it was in, and naught but the crescent moon was visible in the sky. 

So much for a change of scenery, Edelgard grumbled. Still, she started down the sidewalk, not particularly caring about where she was headed. Knowing Helene, there was probably somebody following her, stalking the rooftops a few paces behind. She took comfort in that fact—both that she was safe, thanks to her dear friend, and that she was one step ahead of her “guardian angel.”

She wandered past unlit street lamps, past the bakery she liked, past the flower shop that sold the carnations she and Byleth would surprise each other with. Past the opera house and the old, worn-down ballistae. As she walked on, the shuttered shops of downtown Enbarr melted into rows of multi-level houses. That’s Dorothea’s house up there, Edelgard thought. Dorothea…

Before she knew it, Edelgard was on Dorothea’s doorstep. She considered dismissing whoever it was that was following her, but decided against it, instead knocking on the door to get out of the humidity as soon as possible.

“Ugh…who is it?” Edelgard heard Dorothea call from inside.

“It’s Edelgard.”

Dorothea sighed as she opened the door. “This had better be good, I have a matinee later…” She finally caught a glimpse of Edelgard’s tear-streaked face. “Goddess, what happened to you? Please, come in!”

“Thanks, Dorothea.” Edelgard said as she stepped through the door, settling on to the couch in the center of the front room. Dorothea stepped away, returning a minute later with two cups of still-steeping tea. 

“So?” Dorothea prompted, settling onto the couch beside Edelgard and handing her a cup of tea.

“Thank you for the tea.” Edelgard said. “And for waking up at this hour just because I wanted to see you.”

“It’s my pleasure!” Dorothea said. “That’s what friends are for, right?” 

“Friends…” Edelgard started crying again.

“Woah, are you alright? I didn’t mean to…” Dorothea put a hand on Edelgard’s shoulder.

“No, it’s just…that means a lot, Dorothea.”

Dorothea smiled at Edelgard. “So…do you want to talk about it? Whatever brought you here, now, I mean?”

“I had a nightmare. It wasn’t about my siblings, though, it was…Thales, and Rhea, and Dimitri…and they were saying things about me. That I was a tyrant, and a killer…”

“So what? Those three are evil.”

“But…I’m worried that what they’re saying is true.”

“Oh, Edie, of course it’s not—“

“And then, in the dream, I was giving a speech to the people, but they were saying the same things. And then Byleth…she…and I woke up, and I didn’t say anything because I didn’t want Byleth to hate me, or Helene to hate Byleth, or…” Edelgard’s words disappeared into sobs.

“Edie…” Dorothea pulled Edelgard in for a hug. “Listen to me.” Her voice was gentle, but assertive. “Deep breaths. You’re worthy, you’re valid, you’re awesome. Okay?”

“O-ok…” With Dorothea’s guidance, Edelgard’s breaths returned to a softer, steadier pace.

“Do you need a second, or can I give you my thoughts?”

“Please, go ahead.” There was still a hint of a sob in Edelgard’s voice, and Dorothea hoped that she wasn’t suppressing anything for Dorothea’s sake.

“In my professional opinion, it was just an anxiety dream. I mean no wonder your subconscious is stressed—you’re under a boatload of pressure, you’re working through trauma…but you’re doing an amazing job! You’re the best ruler Fódlan has had for a long time. And one of the best friends, might I add. So all that was nothing more than a bad dream.”

Edelgard sighed. “That…makes sense. Thanks, Dorothea. Would you…happen to know of any remedies for these dreams?”

“Well, herbal teas and meditation can help you relax before bed…but what you really need is a vacation.” Dorothea was getting excited.

“A vacation?”

“Yeah! Just picture it—you and Byleth, relaxing on the beach in Brigid, far away from all the pressure and stress, The Seven handling everything back in Enbarr…So?”

“The Seven does not presently exist. Even if it did, I couldn’t just leave them here all alone! And furthermore, I wouldn’t say that’s my kind of vacation…”

“Oh, humor me for a minute, would you? What would your ideal vacation be? You have friends all over Fódlan—and beyond! The sky’s the limit!”

Edelgard pondered for a moment, clearly beginning to warm up to the idea. “Perhaps…a nice cottage by the sea in Nuvelle. Or even…a cabin in the mountains in Galatea?”

“That sounds wonderful! See? A vacation would do you some good!”

“Maybe so…” Edelgard sighed.

Dorothea had now gotten herself enthusiastic about a hypothetical vacation for Edelgard. “Now, how many ministers do you still need, again?”

“I have my Prime Minister, my Ministers of the Imperial Household, Military Affairs, and my Regent for the Empire. So I just need Ministers of Religious, Foreign, and Domestic affairs.”

“Oh? Lin resigned, too?”

“Last week. Apparently they’re ‘on the verge of something big,’ and want to focus on their research. It’s probably for the best—no offense to Linhardt, but I agree that their talents are better suited to independent research than a bureaucratic council.”

Dorothea chuckled. “Are you feeling better?”

“I am. Thank you, again. I should be going—we both need at least a bit of sleep tonight, after all.”

“I’ll walk with you.” Dorothea said, standing up to put on her shoes. 

“I worry about you having to walk home alone…”

“I’ll be fine. I can fight too, you know. Plus, I’m not the target of any assassination plots. Not that I know of, at least.”

“Very well, then.”

———————————————————

“Helene!? Professor!? Shez!? What are you three doing up at this hour!?” Ferdinand said, cup of tea in one hand, rubbing sleep out of his eyes with the other.

“I think the more appropriate question would be, what are you doing up at this hour, Ferdinand?” Helene replied.

“I’m up because you woke me up!” Ferdinand shouted.

“And now you’ve woken everybody else up.” Helene smirked.

Ferdinand growled. “What are you doing that’s important enough to make an amount of noise sufficient to wake me up in the middle of the night?”

“We were trying to be quiet, until someone knocked over a vase…”

“Sorry.” Shez looked sheepish.

“And anyway,” Helene continued, “our mission is top-secret. However, as long as you’re awake, I could put you in charge of informing Her Majesty of our whereabouts, once she returns…”

“Edelgard is gone? And, wait a moment, how can I tell her where you’re going if you won’t even tell me where you’re going? And—”

But the trio had already disappeared down the hallway. 

———————————————————

After the war, Jeritza von Hrym had insisted on being arrested and incarcerated for her “crimes.” Even after convincing Edelgard to let her throw herself in jail, Jeritza encountered another problem—finding a suitable prison. Edelgard hated prisons, both due to there use by the Church of Seiros as a means of oppression, and her own experience in one. Therefore, most prisons in Adrestia had been destroyed by the Imperial and Church armies alike, and the remaining ones in what were formerly the Holy Kingdom of Faerghus and the Leicester Alliance were privately owned by people not much interested in housing Edelgard’s “prisoners.” And thus, Jeritza resided in the dim and dank dungeon beneath the Imperial Palace, alongside the few prisoners of war that hadn’t been released after Rhea’s death, such as the former Count Grégoire von Varley and the former Duke Ludwig von Aegir.

“Jeritza?” Helene called through the iron bars of the cell in a more sing-songy way than most would ever expect of her, magical torch in one hand and key in the other. 

Jeritza was already awake. “Ah, is it finally time for my execution?”

Helene shook her head. “We’re here to extend an invitation. We’re having a little…party, if you will.”

“A revenge party.”

“Shut up, Shez. Anyway…”

“Count me in.” Jeritza grinned. 

As soon as Jeritza stepped out the door, Helene warped the four of them away. 

———————————————————

The walk from Dorothea’s house to the Palace went smoothly. Dorothea mentioned how the air reminded her own vacation to Brigid, which led to a conversation about Petra, and Dorothea’s plans for the future, and Edelgard’s plans for Adrestia’s relationship with Brigid. Dorothea had dropped Edelgard off at the doors, leaving Edelgard alone with her longing and excitement for Byleth’s company as she snuck through the hallways, careful not to make a sound. Slipping through the door to her chambers, she plopped down onto her side of the bed, leaning over to find…no Byleth. 

It finally happened. Edelgard thought. I finally drove her away. Or worse, she’s been kidnapped by those people and she’s—

No. Deep breaths. She’s probably just gone to the bathroom, or to the kitchens for a midnight snack. That’s all.”

Edelgard found herself very attracted to the idea of a midnight snack. A slice of chocolate cake, and a cup of chamomile tea, like Dorothea suggested…However, Edelgard’s desire for cake was outweighed by her previously unnoticed exhaustion. She snuggled into the covers, trusting Byleth would bring her back something. She thought of Dorothea’s idea for a vacation, fantasizing until she reminded herself of how unfeasible it was without a proper council of The Seven. Her thoughts of who would and wouldn’t be suited for such roles carried her off to sleep. 

———————————————————

“I recognize this place.” Byleth stated. She, Helene, Jeritza, and Shez had materialized in the middle of a forest clearing. 

“We’re only a few miles outside of Enbarr. Just off the road to Garreg Mach, in fact.” Helene replied.

“How did this bunker go undetected for so long, if it’s so close?” Shez asked. 

“It’s quite small, and hardly ever in use. The Agarthans likely built it to keep tabs on Enbarr before they gained direct influence. Now, it seems that some of those that escaped Shambhala are using it as a hideout.” Helene explained. “Anyway, the bunker itself is a short walk from here. I couldn’t warp us too close, lest we be caught off guard. I’ll lead the way.” With that, Helene was off, Jeritza beside her, with Byleth and Shez following. 

The four of them ventured through the dark forest like that for a few minutes, Helene and Jeritza engaged in a whispered conversation. 

“Hey, professor?” Shez asked.

Byleth looked in Shez’s direction, but took a second to respond. “What is it?” She responded, eyes suddenly focusing in on Shez’s. 

“You’ve just seemed kinda distant this morning. But not in your usual, ‘no-thoughts-head-empty’ sort of way. More like, something’s on your mind? I guess I just wanted to check in and make sure you’re ok.”

Byleth put her hand on her heart. “All these emotions are making it hard to focus. My apologies, I will try to be more present.”

Shez put her hands up. “Woah, no need to apologize! I’m just…worried about you. What’s causing all these emotions all of a sudden?”

Byleth furrowed her brow. “I’m scared that El doesn’t like me.”

“What? Why?” Shez’s eyes were wide.

“She had a bad dream again this morning. She always tells me about her bad dreams, but this time…” Byleth sighed. “I just want to be there for her. But, when you think about it, she’s the Emperor, the savior of Fódlan, and an amazing person, and I’m just…me. Of course she doesn’t want—”

“Professor, I’m gonna be frank with you. I don’t know what world you’re living in, but to everyone else it’s incredibly obvious how in love Edelgard is with you. I know how imposter syndrome is, but you’re really just gonna have to trust me on this one.”

“Then why did she leave this morning?”

“Sometimes people need some space. Sometimes people need that one specific friend’s wisdom. It doesn’t mean she doesn’t want or need you.”

“Ok, I guess that makes sense…” Byleth had her hand on her chin, as if she was thinking hard. 

Their conversation was interrupted by a burst of laughter from Helene and Jeritza. Byleth didn’t think she had ever heard Helene genuinely laugh outside of battle. She almost didn’t want to know what could be so funny to the two of them. 

“It’s nice to see Helene making friends.” Byleth commented, changing the subject.

“Yeah, she’s really come out of her shell. Jeritza, too.”

“I don’t know Jeritza very well.” Byleth admitted. 

“She kept training us students while you were gone, so a lot of us got to know her. She doesn’t socialize much so it’s hard to notice, but she’s crazy loyal to Edelgard. Really admires her, too. She’s really protective of her sister, and all of us, for that matter. Basically, she’s really cool.” Shez was beaming. 

“Good to know.” Byleth said. 

Shez nodded. “Someone just needs to convince her she’s not ‘a monster that deserves to be locked up.’ Actually, you’re pretty good at that kinda thing, right?”

“I…guess so?”

Suddenly, Helene held up her hand, stopping the party in their tracks. She glanced around before whispering, “Coast is clear,” and continuing to lead the group forward, slower now. She stopped at a patch of moss, bending down and running her hand over the ground. Once she found the spot she was looking for, she lifted up, revealing the underside of the disguised metal hatch and the stairway leading underground that it had been covering. 

“After you.” Helene grinned, making eye contact with Byleth and gesturing to the stairs. Byleth drew her sword and started down into the abyss. Shez was next, followed by Jeritza and finally Helene. After five steps, the stairwell opened up to a small room, lit by glowing blue lights and lined with shelves. Four people in all black were sat around a table in the center, though they all drew their weapons as soon as they noticed the intruders.

The fight was over as quickly as it began—after a few slashes of swords and castings of spells, the four Agarthans were on the ground, dead. Byleth, Shez, and Jeritza sheathed there weapons in unison. 

“Is anybody hurt?” Helene asked. 

“No.”

“Nope!”

“I am uninjured.”

“Good. Everyone split up and search the room for anything significant. And stay on your guard—no telling what kinds of nasty surprises may await us.” With that, Helene turned to a bookshelf on the right wall of the bunker, cueing the others to split off as well. 

Shez made her way to the shelves that flanked the door. Scanning over the shelves, she found mostly essentials—vulneraries, jugs of water, and rations in the form of that weird Agarthan style of preparation food—‘freeze-drying,’ was it?” Everything seemed to be in usable condition, which was nice.

Jeritza had been drawn to the weapons rack on the left side of the room. She weighed a few of the magical blades in her hands before setting them back on the rack, not noticing anything particularly interesting about any of them.

Byleth was at the far end of the room, where three bunk beds were lined up end to end. She lifted each hard mattress, checking if anything could be hidden under them, but found nothing. 

Helene was still busy flipping through the books on the bookshelf. Records, logs, the odd magical tome…“Oh?” Helene said to herself as she opened the next book. She began to scan through it. “Fascinating…” She continued.

“Find something good, Helene?” Shez asked, swallowing her mouthful of freeze-dried something-or-other.

“Perhaps…” Helene teased. “It will require…further investigation. How about you? Have you found anything of interest?”

Byleth and Jeritza had joined Helene and Shez in front of the bookshelf. 

“Useful, maybe, but not exactly interesting.” Shez said, and the others nodded in agreement. 

“Very well then.” Helene said, tucking the book under her arm. “We can call this little field trip a success. I, for one, would like to use the remaining hours of darkness to sleep.”

“Yeah, good field trip! It was nice to get some energy out.” Shez said.

Byleth nodded. “I agree”

Jeritza drew her sword again, holding it in front of her and gazing into it.“It has been a long time since my blade has tasted flesh…”

Helene smirked, and warped the four of them away. 

———————————————————

At long last, the Imperial Palace was asleep. The Emperor in her bed, Byleth’s arms around her. Helene at her desk, head rested on the pages of an ancient tome. Shez leaning against the wall, taking a break from her Royal Guard duty. And Jeritza in her cell, finally at peace, if only for a few hours. All bodies were rested, all tears were dried, and all heads were filled with hopes and dreams for the coming day.

Chapter Text

Byleth awoke with the sun in her eyes—bright yellow rays against a pale blue sky, shining through the window and onto her face. Slightly annoying, but certainly preferable to the last time she was awoken. She finally gained enough conscience to turn her gaze away from the window and down to where Edelgard had snuggled in to her chest. “El~” she whispered, running her fingers through Edelgard’s soft, white hair.

“Byleth…” Edelgard whispered in response. “What time is it?”

“Sun’s up. So, probably eleven? Eleven thirty?”

“Eleven thirty?!” Edelgard’s eyes shot open. “I have work to do!” She practically jumped out of bed and ran to the wardrobe, hastily changing from her nightgown into one of her red dresses.

“Wait, El…”

But Edelgard was already out the door. 

Byleth half-sighed, half-whimpered. Sleeping in just wasn’t the same without Edelgard, so she dragged herself out of bed and started changing. She didn’t know exactly what she was planning to go and do— maybe she could find a sparring partner at breakfast? Letting out another sigh, Byleth trudged her way out the door. 

——————————————————-

Edelgard stared at the piece of parchment on the desk in front of her, starting to regret leaving Byleth’s warm embrace. 

“Good morning, Your Majesty.” Helene greeted as she entered Edelgard’s study, a plate of saghert and cream in one hand and an envelope in the other. 

“Good morning, Helene.”

Helene looked at Edelgard’s work, observing the paper was blank, save for the word ‘dear’ at the top. “Writing a letter, are we?”

“Trying to.”

Helene set the plate of food on the desk. “A letter came in for you this morning. I thought you might like to take a look personally.” 

Edelgard accepted the letter from Helene, checking the return address: Linhardt von Hevring, Ordelia, Leicester. Slicing the envelope open with the dagger she kept on her desk, she unfolded the letter. She began to read aloud:

____________________________________________________________________

Lady Edelgard,

I hope this letter finds you in good health, and that you’re enjoying the relatively peaceful life we have fought so tirelessly for. 

As you know, I have spent the last few months with Lysithea, accompanying her in her bedridden state and researching crests, in hopes of discovering a way to remove hers and save her life. I present to you my findings:

1. While crest blood is magical, the means by which it is produced is not. Not entirely, at least. Those with crests possess a special organ, attached to the liver, which I will refer to as the “crest organ” until I come up with a better name. When blood passes through the liver, the crest organ infuses it with magical proteins that grant the crest-bearer special abilities. (I hypothesize that this is why blood transfusion/ingestion can confer a crest onto another—the proteins carry the instructions for the body to grow its own crest organ) (Footnote: I believe the reason that the crest organ had not been discovered prior to this is the idea that performing surgery or autopsy on a noble is disrespectful and even desecration—yet another example of elitism getting in the way of progress.)

1. Those Who Slither in the Dark, were, through much trial and error, able to grow a functioning crest organ and implant it in a human without transfusing a crest-bearer’s blood into them. 

1. In order to remove a crest, all one must do is remove the crest organ, and let the liver cleanse the blood of the alien proteins. 

Your Majesty, I am proud and excited to inform you that I have removed both the crests of Charon and Gloucester from Lysithea’s body. The operation was hard on her, physically, but she is making a slow yet successful recovery. Furthermore, I have observed her cells dying at a significantly slower rate. Overall, her crest removal was a complete success, and she will likely lead a long, fulfilling life without the burden of her twin crests. 

Of course, the success of my endeavor has your financial support to thank. Lysithea and I would be honored and delighted to come to Enbarr and remove your crests, should you desire it. 

Sincerely,

Linhardt von Hevring

____________________________________________________________________

“Oh, Goddess…” Edelgard slowly turned her head to see Helene covering her mouth with her hand, a tear running down her cheek. 

“I-it can’t be…She’s going to…You’re going to…”

“Helene…We’re going to live!” Edelgard shot out of her chair and threw her arms around Helene, who returned the embrace. Just as suddenly, she broke the hug and grabbed her quill pen, leaning over her desk. 

“Back to work already? I thought you might like to celebrate.”

“No longer do I have to worry about my projects going unfinished, my plans going unrealized. No longer must I agonize over the thought of leaving my loved ones behind.” She looked back at Helene. “Helene, in twenty-five years, we changed the world. Image what we could do in another fifty, seventy-five years! There’s so much work to do—Oh my goddess. I have to tell Byleth!” Edelgard dashed out of the room.

Helene sighed and began to make her way to her own study. Edelgard was right—there was much work to do.

——————————————————-

Helene read over the Agarthan tome once more. It wasn’t just in last night’s sleep-deprived haze that she saw the connection—to Helene’s knowledge, everything added up. First, the letter, and now, this… Helene thought to herself. What a time to be alive. Helene rarely felt herself overcome with excitement, but she didn’t think herself able to wait until Linhardt’s arrival to share her discovery. I suppose it couldn’t hurt to draft a letter accepting their offer. Lady Edelgard would likely have asked me to do so anyway. Perhaps I could mention my idea in that letter?

Helene retrieved a piece of parchment and a quill pen and placed it on the paper, trying to organize her thoughts. She got as far as one word before pausing, pondering how to properly address the subject, before finally settling on something. They weren’t one for noble titles, anyway.

____________________________________________________________________

Dear Mx. Linhardt von Hevring,

On behalf of myself and Her Majesty, my deepest thanks for your letter, and for your hard work, persistence, and selflessness. It is with most sincerity that I tell you that myself and Edelgard were moved to tears upon reading your letter. We would like to offer our congratulations to you and Lady Ordelia, and to all those whose lives will be changed by your innovation. Needless to say, we will be accepting your offer to come to Enbarr and continue your work. Naturally, we will provide you and whomever you choose to bring with a royal escort. 

I did have one thing I hoped you could ponder on your way—not an official assignment, but rather, a personal project, for now at least. I have recently discovered a most curious tome in an Agarthan bunker. It contains the details for a spell of sorts, one that can completely and permanently transform the human body. 

I trust you remember our dear old Tomas, who turned out to be the flawless disguise of the Agarthan Solon? Or Monica’s capture and temporary replacement with a disguised Kronya? Or even Lord Arundel himself, who, unbeknownst to any of us, was being seamlessly impersonated by Thales? I believe it was this spell that was able to fool us time and time again.

However, I hypothesize that this magical technique can be used for less sinister means. Perhaps those seeking facial features or genitalia more aligned with their gender could use this spell to transform their bodies? The tome contains quite a lot of information, which will be free for your perusal and study—I’m sure something could be done.

I ask that you consider this, however long a shot it may be. And, of course, Her Majesty and I excitedly await your return to Enbarr, and we thank you again for all you have done. 

Sincerely,

Helene von Vestra

Minister of the Imperial Household 

____________________________________________________________________

Helene stared at the letter she had written. It certainly wasn’t the proper way to accept an invitation. Oh, to Ailell with the proper way. Helene muttered. Linhardt will understand. Edelgard would, too, for that matter. She reminded herself. It was sometimes hard for Helene to believe that Her Majesty had gone through, and was going through, the same thing she was now. But now, finally, both of their transitions could be fully complete. Hopefully, at least. Helene had never thought herself an optimist, but now…

——————————————————-

Following a tip from the few who lingered in the dining hall after breakfast, Edelgard speed-walked down the hallway, making her way to the training ground. As she drew nearer, she began to hear what sounded like an absentminded duel and a friendly debate.

Clang

“…can’t believe you think it deserved Best Opera last year.”

Clang 

“The songs were catchy.”

Clang

“Nothing compared to the brilliant atonality of—Oh, hey Edelgard!”

Shez’s greeting went ignored, Edelgard maintaining her stride to the far end of the field, where she wrapped Byleth in a tight hug. Byleth returned the embrace and let Edelgard sob into her shoulder for the better part of a minute, patting her occasionally on the back. 

“Everything ok, Your Majesty?” Shez had made her way over to Byleth and Edelgard. 

“Yes, everything is ok.” Edelgard replied, pulling out of the hug. “Byleth and I need to have a private conversation. However…I do have a special assignment for you later. Could you come to my office in an hour or so?”

“Sure.”

Shez began to walk away, and Edelgard led Byleth to a courtside bench by the hand. Sitting the two of them down, she sighed and wiped a tear off her face. 

“What’s up?” Byleth inquired.

“I apologize for leaving you this morning. And last night.” Edelgard said, looking intently into Byleth’s eyes. 

“No, it’s…fine.”

“Oh…very well, then.” Edelgard blinked a stray tear out of her eye. “I guess I should be going, then.”

“NO! Byleth almost shouted, grabbing on to Edelgard’s arm. “I didn’t mean it like that. I do care about you, but I guess I just assumed you had something better to do than be with me. And that’s…ok. Um, sorry. You can go if you want.”

“Of course not! I…had assumed you were sick of being woken up by my nightmares.”

Byleth shook her head. “I want to be there for you. If you’d let me.”

Edelgard paused before confessing, “You know…I think that’s something I need to work on.”

“Hm?”

“I get so anxious that nobody cares about me, that I have to face everything on my own, and I end up making things harder for myself. I just need to…trust myself. Trust my friends.” Edelgard paused again, allowing her and Byleth a moment to reflect on her words. Eventually, she continued, “Easier said than done, of course.”

“Yeah. But also…we all literally went to war for you.”

Edelgard chuckled. “You’re right about that.”

Byleth smiled. “I think I’m experiencing something similar. Like, I desperately want to be there for you, but I’m always anxious that you don’t want me to. I mean, you’re the Emperor, and I’m just some merc who landed a teaching job out of nepotism.”

“Byleth, we went over this. We are all equally worthy, regardless of the circumstances of our birth.”

Byleth couldn’t tell if Edelgard was joking or being serious. Maybe a bit of both. “Yeah, I know, but…I guess anxiety’s just like that sometimes.” 

“Truly.”

They each leaned in to each other for a hug. 

“Goddess, I almost forgot!” Edelgard exclaimed over Byleth’s shoulder.

“Forgot about what?”

Edelgard broke the embrace and faced Byleth. “I got a letter from Linhardt” she said, voice hushed. They’ve found a way to remove crests. I’m…I’m going to be okay.” 

Byleth stared at Edelgard, eyes wide. A tear began to run down her face. Then, she lunged back in to a hug with Edelgard.

“Is this the first time I’ve seen you cry?” Edelgard mused.

“No. It happened at Fhirdiad, too.”

Edelgard hummed in acknowledgment. Neither she nor Byleth were eager to let go of the other. 

“I have something I need to run by you. Off the record.” Edelgard said.

“Shoot.”

“This is confidential until they accept the position, but I think I know who I want to invite to be Minister of Religious Affairs. Someone reminded me of them, I suppose.”

“Who is it?”

Edelgard whispered into Byleth’s ear. “Thoughts?”

“Passion, leadership experience…an excellent idea.”

“I’m glad you think so. Now I need to actually write the letter…walk with me?”

“Always.”

____________________________________________________________________

Dear Lady Edmund,

I trust this letter finds you and your territory well and in good condition. I hope you know that the current peace and prosperity in Leicester is in no small part thanks to your efforts

I am writing to extend a call to action. Since the disposal of the old Seven, I have been in need of a Minister of Religious Affairs. I believe your dedication to faith, your compassionate nature, and your skill in leadership under pressure makes you well equipped for such a position. 

I would be happy to meet with you in Enbarr if you have any questions or concerns, or feel you are ready to accept the position. 

Sincerely, 

Edelgard von Hresvelg

____________________________________________________________________

“Ah, Shez! Perfect timing.” Shez had walked in just as Edelgard had started addressing the letter. 

“You needed something from me?”

“Yes. I have a…special assignment for you.” Edelgard handed Shez two letters, the one she had just sealed plus the one for Linhardt. “I need you to deliver these. And potentially escort a few people on their way to Enbarr.”

“Sounds easy enough.”

“Regardless, I’ve planned out the optimal route for you to take. Please, do your best to follow it. Helene will be able to warp you to Fort Merceus. From there, you will travel across the Bridge of Myrddin and through Ordelia and Gloucester, where you will still be under the protection of the governors of those regions, our allies. In order to get to Edmund, you will need to pass through the former Riegan territory, which is now the subject of a dispute between Gloucester and Goneril. Be on your guard. Once you have delivered the letter, you will retrace your path with your first escortee, stopping in Ordelia to deliver the second letter and retrieve your other two escortees. The four of you will then cross the bridge once more and return to Enbarr. Does that make sense?”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

“Good. And remember, the contents of these letters, and the existence of this mission, is highly confidential for various reasons. So please, try to keep a low profile.”

“Of course, Your Majesty.”

“That will be all. Good luck on your mission.”

Shez saluted and left in a hurry. 

——————————————————-

“Should I be worried about this mission? Edelgard was in ‘War Mode’ while she was briefing me.” Shez asked.

“Do not worry.” Helene responded. “But do be aware of the importance of it. When the information in those letters gets to the right people…suffice it to say, the results could be world-changing.”

“Damn…guess I’d better take this seriously.”

Helene shot Shez a glare.

“Relax, I’m kidding.” Shez started to grin.

“Surely you don’t think it was that funny.” Helene rolled her eyes.

“No, I was just realizing…this’ll be my first time seeing Marianne since the war ended. That’s…nine months, now?” 

Helene nodded in confirmation.

“Wow. I can’t tell if it feels shorter or longer than that.”

“Indeed.” Helene sighed and shook her head. “Ah, young love. Just don’t let yourselves get too distracted.” 

“We’re the same age, Helene.”

Helene scoffed. “Are you ready to go, already?”

“Fine, I’m ready.”

And in a flash of purple, the two were gone.

Chapter Text

Marianne let out a deep sigh. She was up early, and the only thing she could bring herself to do was to lie on the living room couch and gaze out the window into the blackness of the night, running over her plan for the day in her head.

Not like she had many plans, or ever did these days. Most of her friends were in Enbarr, Lysithea was bedridden, Hilda…Marianne didn’t know where she stood with Hilda. They had broken up when the war started, and spent the next five years trying to indirectly kill each other, so…

Marianne sighed again.

Needless to say, her social life wasn’t exactly the healthiest, and all she could do all day was act as her adoptive father’s glorified secretary. 

She cursed the fact that she hadn’t stood up for herself when her adoptive father told her to come back to Edmund territory after the war and help govern. She hadn’t realized how lonely it would be, or how stressful…

Edelgard and what remained of the Alliance Roundtable had reached the agreement that the Alliance could remain as a self-governing territory of the Empire. But with Claude missing and the conflicting attitudes toward the Empire amongst the members of the Roundtable, governing at all had been frustrating, to say the least. 

Marianne was startled out of her brooding by a knock at the door. By now, the sun had started to rise, though Marianne couldn’t see it through the manor’s west-facing windows. She went to open the door, and was only able to process the visitor’s long, purple hair before she felt herself losing her balance, having been practically tackled back into her living room. 

“Marianne!” Shez beamed, catching Marianne and securing her in a tight embrace.

“What are you doing here?” Marianne blurted, immediately wishing she had said something more romantic. 

“I wish I could say I came all this way just to see you,” Shez said, releasing Marianne from the hug but keeping her hands on her shoulders, “which I did, but I’m technically here on an assignment from Edelgard. But we can talk about that later. For now…”

Shez leaned in toward Marianne, and Marianne started to do the same, before she was startled by the sound of footsteps coming down the stairs. She pushed Shez away and turned just in time to see her adoptive father descend the final step, his nose thankfully buried in some kind of paperwork or other. 

“Good morning, father.” Marianne said.

“Good morning, child.” Margrave Edmund replied, barely glancing up from his paperwork but doing a double take once he registered the glint of purple in his unfocused vision. “And who’s this…ruffian?”

“This is, um…” Marianne turned to Shez and saw her awkward expression turn in to a devilish grin. 

“Shez, former general of the Imperial Army and current captain of the Royal Guard. Pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

Marianne had to hold back a giggle at the sight of her adoptive father’s face.

“Ah, my…apologies.” The margrave mumbled. “To what do we owe the pleasure of your visit?”

“I’m actually just here as a messenger.” Shez said, reaching in to her bag and removing an envelope. “A letter, from Her Majesty to Lady Edmund.” The smirk still hadn’t left her face. 

“…Very well then. I have governing to do—perhaps when you’re done with whatever our… glorious emperor has for you, you could make yourself useful too.”

“Yes, father.”

The margrave left the room, muttering under his breath.

It was Shez who eventually broke the silence. “How do you live with that every day?” 

“Oh, it’s…not that bad. I think he’s just intimidated by you.” The assessment drew a giggle out of both of them, though Marianne’s expression was still pained. 

“Enough about him.” Shez smiled, handing the letter to Marianne. “How ‘bout we finally figure out what Edelgard and Helene were being so mysterious about?”

“Ok…” Suddenly, Marianne felt nervous. Nonetheless she took the letter from Shez and settled back on to the couch, with Shez following a second after. Marianne removed the wax seal and unfolded the letter inside the envelope, beginning to read silently. 

“Anything interesting?” Shez asked as Marianne finished reading and set the letter down beside her.

“She wants me to be the new Minister of Religious Affairs.”

“And?”

“I don’t know,” Marianne said, her face darkening. “Am I really…qualified?”

“Of course you are!” Shez smiled. “And I’m not just saying that to be nice. We both know how much Edelgard cares about Fódlan’s future. She wouldn’t offer this position out of pity, or if she didn’t completely trust in their abilities.”

“I guess you’re right.” Marianne said, smiling softly. “She says to come to Enbarr if I have any questions, or if I’m ready to accept the position. I think I’d like to do that—ask questions, I mean. And to be honest, I’d like to get out of here and see everyone even more.”

“Then it would be my honor to escort you, milady.” Shez replied with a dramatic bow.

“I’ll go tell my adoptive father” Marianne whispered. She left Shez with a kiss on the cheek.

———————

“So how was your week?” Dorothea asked.

“Alright. I got some work done, at least.” Edelgard replied. 

The two had made a habit of meeting up for tea at a local cafe whenever they could both catch a break at the same time. It’s important for friends to stay caught up with each other, Dorothea had said, which was true, but Dorothea also knew that if she didn’t invite Edelgard out, she would stay cooped up in the palace 24/7. 

“And how are things going with Byleth?” Dorothea inquired. 

“Things are going well, actually. We ended up having a talk, and…I don’t think either of us really understand how much we care about each other. So much that it’s hard to believe sometimes. I think that’s what the problem was.”

“A good problem to have, in a way.” Dorothea mused.

“I suppose so.” Edelgard laughed. “But enough about me. Your show just closed, right?”

“Yep! Last show of the season, too. It’s sad, but I am glad to have a bit of a break. Petra actually invited me to Brigid for a few weeks! Tropical weather, beaches, Petra…”

“That’s nice. I apologize for bringing up politics, but do you think you could get to know some of Brigid’s government officials while you’re there?”

“I guess so. Why?”

Edelgard lowered her voice. “Between us—for now, at least—I think you would make a good Minister of Foreign Affairs. You have excellent people skills, leadership experience…and the Seven can’t all be former nobles, of course. It would be good for you to establish a relationship with Brigid’s government officials, in case you need to be having more serious diplomatic discussions in the future.”

“Oh, really? Well, I’ll certainly think about it…”

———————

It was around noon when Shez and Marianne arrived at the Ordelia estate. They knocked on the door and were greeted by an older man that Shez assumed to be Count Ordelia. 

“Ah, Lady Edmund! Good afternoon. And who is this?” The Count asked, turning to Shez.

“Shez. I’m here to deliver a letter to Lysithea on behalf of the Emperor.”

“Well, it’s a pleasure to meet you. Please, come in!” The Count led the visitors through the door and to the bottom of a staircase. “Lysithea and Linhardt should be upstairs. If you would wait there a moment—” The Count disappeared and returned a moment later with a glass of water, handing it to Shez. “You might need this.”

“Uh, thanks.” Shez said. She and Marianne made their way up the stairs. To the right was an open door, which the pair looked through to see Lysithea and Linhardt, tucked in to bed and fast asleep. 

“Should we wake them?” Marianne asked as she and Shez entered the room. “They look quite comfortable; it would be rude to—SHEZ, WAIT—” 

Shez had dumped the glass of water on to Lysithea’s face. 

“FATHER, HOW MANY TIMES DO I HAVE TO TELL YOU NOT TO WAKE US UP LIKE—Oh, Shez, Marianne, what are you doing here?” Lysithea started to dry her face off with the bedsheets. 

Linhardt yawned. “What’s all this commotion about?” They said, rubbing the sleep out of their eyes. 

Neither Marianne nor Shez were able to answer either question—the former was apologizing profusely, and the latter was laughing her face off. 

“Sorry, you two.” Shez said, catching her breath. “We’re just here to deliver a letter from Edelgard.”

“From Edelgard?!” Linhardt exclaimed, starting to sit up. “It must be her reply to my—“

“Lie down, Lin.” Lysithea interrupted, pushing Linhardt back toward the bed. “It’ll be good to hear from her!” She continued, turning back to the visitors. “But, could you give us a bit of privacy first? We’re not exactly decent at the moment.”

Shez smirked as Marianne led her out of the room, one hand dragging her by the wrist and the other covering her face. 

———————

“Please, help yourself.” Count Ordelia said as he set down a cake and serving knife on the coffee table that Shez, Marianne, Lysithea, and Linhardt were now seated around. “I’ll be in the other room if you need me.” Lysithea lunged for the cake as the rest of the group said their thank-yous.

“Your dad is really nice!” Shez said.

“Really annoying, too.” Lysithea replied through a mouthful of cake. “But yeah, he is.”

“It’s nice to see you two after all this time. And I’m especially glad to see you doing better, Lysithea.” Marianne said.

“Oh, yeah. I’m glad too.” Lysithea replied. 

“I didn’t know you two were together.” Shez said. “Unless you were platonically sleeping together.”

“Actually, it started as platonic sleeping together.” Linhardt said matter-of-factly.

“I still don’t know how this nincompoop managed to make me fall for them.” Lysithea teased. “Not that I’m complaining, mind you.”

Linhardt chuckled. “Anyway, you said you had a letter for us? From Edelgard?”

“Oh, yeah.” Shez said, reaching in to her bag and retrieving the remaining letter. She handed it to Linhardt, who took the envelope, opened it, and began to read the letter inside.

“Interesting…very interesting…” Linhardt muttered as they read. “Well, she wants me to come to Enbarr.” Linhardt said, folding the letter back up. 

“What’s so interesting about that?” Lysithea asked.

“Helene also mentioned a—No. Better to not get anyone’s hopes up, in case it doesn’t work.”

“Well now you have to tell us.” Shez said.

“It’s a science project that Helene needs my help with. Anyway, do you feel well enough to warp, Lysithea?” Linhardt barely hid their—albeit successful—attempt to change the subject.

“I think so. Why?” 

“I assume you want to come with us to Enbarr, in which case one of us can warp with Shez, and the other with Marianne.” 

“O-oh, yeah, I’ll come with you.” Lysithea said. “But, can we finish the cake first?”

———————

“Ahh…Home sweet home.” Shez sighed as she, Marianne, Linhardt, and Lysithea entered the main foyer of the palace. One of the guards flanking the door to the throne room told them to wait while the other left, presumably to fetch the emperor herself. Shez didn’t know why they had to go through all the formalities—they were all friends of Edelgard’s, after all. In any case, the wait was short, and the quartet was soon ushered through the door. 

Edelgard was seated on the throne, with Helene and Byleth on either side. She stood up almost immediately, however, and the seven of them spent the next few minutes exchanging hugs and greetings. 

“I must say, it is wonderful to see you all together and in good health.” Edelgard smiled. “Please, follow me, we’ll catch up over tea.”

“If you would excuse us for a moment, I would like to speak with Mx. Hevring.” Helene said. 

“Of course.” Edelgard replied, and Linhardt found themself being guided down the opposite hallway as the rest of the group and into a dark room lined with documents and tomes, and a large desk with chairs on either side. Helene took a seat on the far end of the desk and gestured for Linhardt to do the same on the opposite side, which they did. 

“First of all, Linhardt, I would like to thank you for all you’ve done. Truly, it means the world to myself and Lady Edelgard.” 

Helene’s sincerity caught Linhardt off guard. “O-Of course. I am very happy with the results of my research.”

“As you should be. Now, I’m sure you wouldn’t mind me asking a few questions about it?” Helene said, her tone and expression returning to its usual inquisitiveness.

“I don’t suppose so.” Linhardt replied. They were relieved when they were told they didn’t have to submit an official report to the emperor, they hated having to explain themself…But alas, here they were.

“Linhardt, some would say your…trademark laziness and disinterest is essential to your personality, which is why I would like to know what compelled you to spend so much time and energy on your crest research.”

Not the kind of question Linhardt was expecting. “Is this some kind of test?”

Helene scoffed. “No, I ask purely out of curiosity.”

“Curiosity…I think that would be a good way to describe it. I was curious about how crests worked, what their limits were, what it was possible to do with them. Once I realized how my research could be applied—how it could help save the lives of people I care about, I mean—that only increased my desire to learn.”

Helene nodded. “Hmm…Very interesting. For the sake of discussion, I ask—why doesn’t that apply to other subjects? Healing magic, for example, also helps save lives. Why didn’t you have the same fixation on that?”

“I don’t know. I guess there wasn’t the same spark. I only started studying it because it meant I wouldn’t have to kill people. Besides, it’s different when it’s something your professor-slash-general is telling you to study, versus something you choose for yourself.” Not an answer that satisfied the scientist part of Linhardt, but to the other part, it made sense.

“Fascinating. I thank you for indulging me—I like to know what goes on in the minds of other researchers.”

Linhardt nodded. “Now that that’s over with, could we talk about the tome you mentioned in your letter?”

Helene chuckled. “Your singular focus is as admirable as it is uncouth. But yes, I am excited to see what you think.” She retrieved the Agarthan tome from her desk drawer, opening it up to the page she had bookmarked. “It’s written in Agarthan, but I’ve written my translation into the margins. Tell me if you have any questions.” She handed the open tome to Linhardt and waited patiently as they read.

“So it’s done entirely with dark magic…Why don’t their bodies decay like those of others who are exposed to dark magic for so long?” Linhardt asked.

“Agarthan bodies eventually adapted to dark magic exposure, to the point where it didn’t affect them at all.” Helene replied. 

“Hmm…I wonder if that same effect could be achieved through some kind of exposure therapy? Or possibly a constant healing spell that would counteract the negative affects?” Linhardt wondered aloud before looking Helene in the eyes. “If so…I’d say this technique could be used for gender-affirming surgeries. It would have to be modified for use on only a certain area of the body as opposed to a full transformation, and ideally the need for a blood sacrifice would be eliminated…but otherwise, I’m optimistic.”

Helene grinned. “Wonderful. The Empire will provide you with any and all resources you may need, whenever you are ready to begin your research.”

“Hold on a minute. I only said I thought it was possible. Not that I don’t want to do it, but I’m not well versed in dark magic itself, let alone the science behind it. I don’t think I’m the right person for the job.” Linhardt thought for a moment. What they had said was true, but at the same time…they had just made miraculous breakthroughs in crestology, saving the lives of multiple people…that had to be worth something. A grin made its way across their face. “Not alone, that is.”

“The entire empire is at your disposal. Who do you have in mind?” Helene had to admit, Linhardt’s burst of confidence was infectious.

“Of course I’d want yours and Lysithea’s help. Constance is quite knowledgeable in matters of science and magic. As is Monica. Mercedes is an accomplished healer—she could help with the whole dark magic decay problem. And she had experience administering hormone therapy.” Linhardt looked at Helene for input. 

“That is quite a formidable team.” She grinned. “I will write to each of them shortly. But for now, I believe our friends are waiting for us.”

Chapter Text

The tea party was winding down by now, as evidenced by the coldness of the tea, the lack of remaining pastries on the table, and a glance out the window into the darkening sky which told the group that they had very much lost track of time. Nevertheless, they continued their chats and flirts and catch-ups until everyone’s eyelids were heavy. 

“Shez, would you show the guests to their rooms?” Edelgard said after the conversation had lulled for a bit too long.

“Of course.” Shez responded.

“Finally…” Linhardt yawned.

“I will get started on those letters, then.” Helene said.

Everyone, save for Edelgard, rose from their seats. 

“Marianne, could you stay for just a moment?” Edelgard asked as Helene whisked herself away and Shez, Lysithea, and Linhardt sauntered off to bed. 

“Oh, sure.” Marianne replied, sitting herself back down.

Edelgard poured herself and Marianne another cup of tea. “You’ve heard this many times today, but it really is nice to see you again. 

“Likewise. I missed you. Everyone.”

Edelgard nodded, sighing. “How have things been going in Leicester?”

“Going well, for the most part. The majority of the Roundtable is in accord—House Goneril is still resisting Empire policies, but otherwise, things are running smoothly.”

“Have there been any civilian protests?”

“Not that I know of.”

“Good. I wanted to create a better world for humanity—and I’m always hopeful that humanity is actually happy with it.”

“Most people are. And as things continue to change, even more will be eager to support your cause.”

“Thank you, Marianne.” Edelgard said, exhaling and taking a long sip of tea. “I assume you received the letter I sent you?”

“Oh, yes…I actually did have a few questions, if that’s alright.” 

“Of course. One should be well informed before taking on such an important position.”

“…Right.” Marianne said, not knowing if Edelgard meant for her to feel judged or encouraged. “Um, what would my duties be as Minister of Religious Affairs?”

“In the past, the Minister of Religious Affairs’ main responsibility was to act as a diplomat to the Church of Seiros, as well as organize and oversee religious festivals in Adrestia. Of course, the latter would no longer be a concern now that our government is strictly secular. As for the former…We are currently negotiating with Seteth and Flayn and the remnants of the Church’s clergy in regards to the repossession of the Monastery. You would be part of those negotiations, along with the Minister of Domestic Affairs, the Prime Minister, and myself. Moving forward, you would maintain relations with the Church as it further re-establishes itself.”

“I see.” Marianne said. It sounded…overwhelming. But if she would have her friends supporting her…This could be her chance to really make a difference. The Church had done so much for her all those years ago, and this could be her chance to give back, to help it regrow…

Marianne stopped herself from fantasizing too much. She had to be realistic, at least at this point. “Would I have to live here in Enbarr?” She asked. 

“Not necessarily. In the past, most nobles lived in and worked from their territory, coming to Enbarr for meetings with the emperor and other ministers. While I would like to be able to keep tabs on the ministers’ official actions, I would never go so far as to require them to live in a certain place.”

Oh. “…Could I live here?” Marianne asked. She couldn’t come up with a more elegant way to ask, to her slight embarrassment. She actually quite liked the ocean views of northern Leicester, but being so far away from all her friends was difficult.

“Of course. The gates of Enbarr are always open for you.”

“Thanks. Marianne said. “Um, one more thing, if you don’t mind…”

Edelgard nodded for her to continue.

“Do you…really think I’m the right person for the job?”

“Marianne, I wouldn’t have asked you if I didn’t have utmost confidence in your capabilities, or if I didn’t want to work with you.”

Marianne couldn’t hold back a smile. “You know, Shez said the same thing to me a week ago.”

This drew a laugh out of Edelgard. “Did she really?”

“Mhm. You two really are more alike than one might think.”

Edelgard smiled. “Maybe so.” She finished off her cup of tea and sighed. “Apologies for the informality, but I should be off to bed. I have a long day ahead of me—as do you, for that matter. I must get the approval of The Seven—or, The Four, as it is presently—and then you can be sworn in as Minister of Religious Affairs—Assuming you have decided to accept the position?”

“Yes. I have.” Marianne said, face full of a confidence and determination that she hadn’t felt since deciding to join Edelgard in the first place, nearly six years ago.

There was a knock at the door to the parlor. “Come in,” Edelgard said, and Shez entered the room. 

“Linhardt and Lysithea are off to sleep—or…otherwise.” Shez smirked. “Speaking of, Marianne, if you’re done here, maybe you and me wanna—”

“Yes, we’re done here.” Edelgard interrupted. “Goodnight, you two.” 

“Goodnight.”

“G’night!”

Edelgard chuckled. As much as she was criticizing Shez internally, she had to admit she too was excited to get back to her own partner. She finally began to make her way to her chambers, leaving the tea set for Helene to take care of—selfish of her, but she knew Helene enjoyed making her life more convenient, and she was tired.  

————

Helene Von Vestra, Minister of the Imperial Household, Helene signed at the bottom of her third and final letter of the night. She carefully folded each one into an envelope and retrieved a chunk of wax and a spoon from her desk drawer. She placed the wax in the spoon and began to melt it over the flame of her candle, the only source of light cutting through the inky darkness of her study. 

Once the wax had melted, she dripped a portion of it on the back of each envelope, and stamped them with the double-headed eagle, the symbol of the Adrestian Empire which, newly, lacked the traditional Crest of Seiros. 

Once the wax had fully cooled, she stacked the three letters on the end of her desk for an assistant to pick up the next morning.

Within a month, Fódlan’s greatest young scientists and magicians would all be gathered here. What a wonderful thought, Helene mused. 

————

Edelgard was glad to see Byleth still awake when she arrived at their bedroom. She was sitting in bed, dressed in a nightgown and flipping through one of Edelgard’s novels. She eagerly set it down as soothing as Edelgard entered the room, however, freeing her hands to pull Edelgard close to her when she settled down on the bed beside her. 

“You talked to Marianne?” Byleth asked.

“Yes, and it went quite well. She will be a great asset to the Empire.”

“Y’know, it really is amazing how much she, and Linhardt, and everyone have accomplished. How much they’ve grown. I can’t help but feel a sense of teacherly pride.”

“Rightfully so. Six or seven years ago, I never could have imagined how much the world would change because of me. Because of us.”

“Or that Linhardt would be the one to save your life?” Byleth laughed.

“That is no way for a teacher to talk about their students.” Edelgard scolded, though she couldn’t hold back her own laugh. 

“I do a lot of improper things with my students~” Byleth said, moving her face even closer to Edelgard’s. 

Edelgard rolled her eyes, but nonetheless blushed when Byleth kissed her cheek. 

“Speaking of…” Byleth said, changing the subject. “When are you going to have the surgery?”

“Linhardt and Lysithea deserve some time to settle in, but I’m hoping for as soon as possible.”

Byleth nodded, smiling subtly. “Excited?”

“I’m not exactly excited to be cut open, but I assume it’s better done sooner rather than later.”

Byleth’s expression turned darker. “I hadn’t considered that it might bring up memories. Will you…be okay?”

“Physically, I will be fine. I have endured much worse. Otherwise…” Edelgard lowered her voice. “I admit that I have my misgivings. But my trust in my comrades and my desire to live my life to the fullest, free of my crests, trumps any scars they left on me.”

Byleth smiled at Edelgard again, this time in admiration. She moved to extinguish the candle on the bedside table, the only source of light in the room. She then wrapped Edelgard in a tight hug and pulled the covers over the two of them. “I’m excited for you.” She whispered.

Edelgard let out a contented sigh. “Goodnight, Byleth.”

“Goodnight, El.”

————

Morning had come too quickly, and Edelgard was already in her study doing paperwork. She was interrupted by a knock at the door—likely Helene with her breakfast and morning tea. “Come in!” She said, and as the door opened she was surprised to see Lysithea standing in it. 

“Edelgard. Could I talk to you about something?”

“Of course. Please, take a seat.” Edelgard gestured to a spare chair in the corner of the room.

“No, it’s nothing that serious, it’s just…When I had my crest removed, it brought up some…bad memories. I imagine it will be even worse for you. So…I know neither of us like to talk about it, but…I’m here if you need me.”

“Thank you, Lysithea.” Edelgard smiled, but the rest of her expression was dark. “Speaking of, did Linhardt say when they would be able to perform the operation?”

Lysithea scoffed. “Last night, before we went to bed, they said, ‘after that trip, I could sleep for a week!’ And knowing them, that probably isn’t far from the truth.”

Edelgard chuckled. “Well, tell them I’m ready when they are.”

“I will.” Lysithea turned to leave, but stopped just short of the door. “Oh, if you don’t mind, one last thing?”

“What is it?”

“It’s just…” Lysithea took a deep breath. “For the first time in my life I’m feeling…happy. Relaxed. I mean, the war’s over, and I have a long life ahead of me…what I mean to say is, I hope for the same for you, Edelgard.”

“I hope so, too.”