Rebirth - Beginnings and Endings - Dgcakes (ficsnfun) - Fire Emblem: Fuukasetsugetsu (2024)

Chapter 1: Back to the Beginning

Chapter Text

Long ago, Tate had thought she had given up all connection to the Goddess, laid her to her proper rest and moved on with life as a mortal woman.

Seiros had tried to cling to the past, tried to resurrect her mother and forcibly control progress to the future, hoping for a life even she didn't understand and trying to keep and protect the only remnants of her kind. The Agarthans had meanwhile been trying to destroy those same remnants and resurrect their own last glory age. A revenge and rebirth, something both sought for different reasons, and humanity was only pawns in both of their hands.

Of what happened, Tate found she had plenty of regrets, but they were for mostly those dragged into the mix. Those harmed by the machinations of the Agarthans or the conflicts that came of the Church's decisions. There were those she wished she could have helped more, or sooner.

Sothis's fate was something Tate regretted as well. She understood, in some ways, why Seiros had wanted to wake her. She had only just come to understand herself when she had to give up so much to allow Tate to live. The person so many had fought to resurrect and yet she had been the one willing to let go for another to live freely. Tate would have loved for Sothis to either get to fully rest on her own terms, or to get to be properly reborn - not as a butchered resurrection of her old self, but someone free to live and love the world she had protected.

They had developed so much in the years since the war. Brilliant researchers had done many things to improve the quality of life for those who had suffered.

But Tate had still had to bury her wife younger than she should have. She had watch dear friends get sick or die - the tragic after effects of things that hadn't been able to be caught and researched in time.

She had thought she left all her ties to the Goddess behind. She had buried the sword. She had never used the powers again. Apparently, instead of being gone and fading…they had built up.

Her grief and regrets had built up and seemingly exploded and that is when she understood.

Before her stood the flow of time, the power of a goddess and the truth of how to accomplish what her heart desired most. To help her loved ones and truly lay things to rest, and to finally be able to free the one she owed so much to she must finish the cycle.

She didn't immediately vanish. The life she was leaving behind was a good one and she took the chance to talk to her remaining loved ones. Most didn't know the truth but understood, in their own ways, that something was going to change. They didn't know how but if anyone could do it, she could.

She asked a few important notes and ideas from certain loved ones. Several barely even asked why. Only one, faithful as ever, held her hand tightly before she left.

He was in his sickbed, brought down by the illness that long term dark magic use and regular poisonings gave him.

“You're going to try to save her somehow, aren't you?” He asked,voice barely a rasp.

“Not try, I will.”

He gave a dark chuckle, cut off by a wheeze. “Yes, you had better.”

She squeezed his hand. “I'll save you too.”

“That isn't necessary-”

“It is to us. To her, to me, to your spouse and friends.”

His grip loosened.

“Alright. I cannot stop you if you're so determined. Just try not to kill us for being too foolish in our youths, hm?”

“I shall delight in personally tormenting you by putting you and your husband together for assignments even more than before.”

“Do as you please. Just make her happy.”

“Always.”

Those who knew of her abilities said less. This was something she needed to do and they couldn't really stop her.

Her brother was the last she visited, hugging him tight.

“If you see me back then…make sure you tell me to stop being stupid and hug our dad again while I can, ok?”

“I'll do my best. I cannot promise you'll listen to me.”

“Just try, that's all I can ask.”

“I wish you could come with me.”

“Me too, but neither of us knows how this works. So stay safe, ok?” He kissed her forehead.

She returned the gesture, wishing just the same she could have him with her, could have even some familiar strength at her side.

With that last goodbye, she stepped away and released her full power. It was time for her to return to where it all began, to Remote Village; to Garreg Mach; to the Three Houses and their students that would eventually be the ones to change the world.

A girl who experienced mysterious dreams of an unknown past all at once became instead a young woman for whom the future had held so much. Potato “Tate” Eisner had awoken from sleep to her father, long lost to her, coming in to check his daughter was awake for work.

Tate's eyes brightened and she leapt up, going to throw her arms around Jeralt, burying herself against his sturdy chest.

“Whoa, hey, what's gotten into you?” Jeralt was shocked but reached down to awkwardly hug her just the same.

“I missed you. I missed you so much.” Tate gasped the words against his front.

“Huh? You just saw me a few- wait.” Jeralt pulled her back to look at her. “Are you crying? You've never-”

Tate blinked and reached up to wipe her eyes. “I had a nightmare.” That was the best explanation she could give. “We have work, do we not? I won't waste more time.”

“Are you sure, kiddo?” Jeralt was still stiff and serious but he was concerned about his daughter just the same. He kept a hand firmly on her shoulder, trying to look her over better.

“Yeah. I'm sure.” She reached up to touch his hand. “Things are going to change soon. But they will be okay.” She would make sure.

Jeralt was still concerned but there were more pressing problems. Three young nobles had brought bandits tailing them to the village, and the mercenaries could not abandon the villagers in this time.

Drawing her sword, Tate looked fondly at the eager students and felt the smile in her heart, though it didn't show on her face.

Sothis had no need to save her host from a foolish step before a bandit, yet this fight at last did wake her. The world paused around them and in a darkened throne room, she awoke.

“Strange… what is it you have done? Was it by my power or yours that we have stopped here?”

“Ours.” Tate answered softly, and she strode forward in the dark to pull the girl lounging upon the throne into a hug.

“Oh Sothis, I'm… so happy you're back.” Her voice was weak and soft from feeling but the power and confidence to her stance was more fully revealed here.

Sothis seemed surprised but not, and returned her hug slowly.

“I seem to recall this place. And that we've met before. Yes…Sothis was my name. It was also…The Beginning.’

“Yes.” Tate set her down again, and sat by the throne. “You are the Beginning. I'm Potato. I go by Tate.”

“I recall this. Yes, you were once a girl called Tate. But you do not look as you did then… your form does not match your vessel, how can that be?”

“Because I am Tate but I am also…the Ending.” She explained, spreading her hands in a helpless shrug.

“The Ending…” Sothis pondered. “How strange. I cannot even recall my own past, yet I recall some of yours? Dear me, this makes no sense.”

“Take your time to think. Everything you knew, I have learned. Everything I knew, you will learn.” Tate squeezed her hand. “I thought I could leave behind the power we shared and let you rest properly. I could not. But now, I can save those I love, and I can help you just as you helped me.”

Sothis looked at her distantly.

“You have grown up, little potato.” She smiled then shook her head. “Well if you claim you can help me out of all this then get to it! Prove you're the one who can put this all to rest.”

The scene returned in time and Tate finished off the bandits with ease. Jeralt was surprised with her sudden seeming increase in skills but before he could ask about it, an interruption came from the following Knights.

Alois recognized Jeralt, as he had in her first life. He was as boisterous and warm and friendly as always, and he took Jeralt's brusque reaction with cheer. On him inquiring if Tate was his daughter, her eyes wrinkled at the edges while she spoke, plain and bland as usual.

“I'm a bandit.” Some things were inate at this point. And getting along with Alois was extremely natural and easy. Even if his humor didn't actually always make sense, it was familiar and comforting and she appreciated it.

He took well to her joke response and it wasn't long before they were conscripted to go back to the monastery.

Jeralt pinched his brows and looked at his daughter.

“You've been being a bit weird all day, kiddo. We're going to have to go with them. Are you going to be alright?”

“You'll be there.” She pointed out. “And I won't get better at things by running away.”

Her father went ahead to gather the rest of his company. Tate, meanwhile waited patiently for what she knew was coming. The three house leaders coming over to investigate the mysterious young mercenary they had met.

Edelgard was the first to address her, already fishing for information about her father, a much celebrated former Captain of the Knights of Seiros.

Tate's character had not changed so much in the years gone by that she could bring herself to lie to her wife, even if Edelgard was nothing of the sort at this time. Still, it would be inaccurate to say she didn't know of the Knights or her father's history, even if she reasonably should not.

“He didn't tell me anything about being a Caption before.” That was both truthful, to her father's actions, and didn't reflect a lack of knowledge she should have at this time.

Edelgard had seemingly caught that intentional choice of wording and gave her a curious look. They did not have long to dwell on it, however, as Dimitri and Claude were eager to make their presence known.

All three talked over each other or squabbled and Tate watched fondly. Her face had never been able to show half so much as she felt, and get feelings had always been far more muted than many peoples, but where they were strong they were very much so. And how could she not feel a lot at watching her beloved brothers and wife, squabbling and arguing together over easy topics.

Claude tried to ask where her allegiance lay, and Tate looked at them with soft eyes.

“I shall say.. with the empire. Always.” She glanced at Edelgard, still very fond. It warmed her heart to see the young empress healthy and active again, rather than how she'd last seen her.

Edelgard, of course, felt choosing the empire was wise and gave a short but passionate speech about it's virtues, one Tate could likely recite with her eyes shut.

Alois came back to shuffle them all along and Tate had no objection. Sothis watched with interest.

-- They're each intriguing and seem quite interested in you. But you see them quite familiarly. What do you make of them then?--

The bravest, strongest, cleverest and most determined of all Fodlan has to offer. They are all just waiting for the right moment to burst forth and show the world. They just need a bit more guidance.

-- I shall wait to see if you are right. For now I feel so… sleepy… --

Rest. We have much traveling to do and you will want to be awake for who we meet next.

The journey to the monastery was uneventful, though the House Leaders made their own efforts to be friendly. Tate was already known for being taciturn so could get away with just seeming to be overwhelmed.

When they separated from the students, she and her father walked in the grounds, stopping as her father looked up and spotted the Archbishop looking down to them.

Tate met her eyes, thinking that truly, they had much to speak of in this life.

She grasped her father's sleeve, stopping him on the way before taking his hand to hold.

“What is it, kiddo? Nervous about who you're going to meet?”

Tate shook her head.

“There's.. things I want to tell you. But we have a meeting first.” She squeezed his hand. “You don't have to lie to the Archbishop about me. She already knows.”

Jeralt's eyes widened.

“How do you-?!”

Tate squeezed his hand again.

“I'll tell you soon. Trust me, please? She can't hurt me. I can't tell you yet, but she can't. It's going to be ok.”

Jeralt looked pensive and then sighed.

“Alright, have it your way. I brought you up like this, you were going to turn it around on me sooner or later. Do what you want. Just try to be safe.”

“I will. You've kept me safe all my life, it's my turn.” Tate gave him a short hug then strode forward, heading for the audience chamber where her new job awaited.

Jeralt was less awkwardly hostile to Rhea on meeting. He didn't trust her, but he'd seemingly taken his daughter's instruction not to lie as a hint to be a little more cordial. Not necessarily friendly but not as bad as he could.

Rhea asked her name, as mysteriously as she did the first time.

“It's Potato. I am commonly called Tate.” She spoke softly, no tobe still but words as polite as she could manage. “It's good to meet you, Lady Rhea, Seteth.” She couldn't help wanting to be nicer to Seteth. He was like an uncle to her in many ways and he'd been a prickly but caring figure to her family over the years.

Rhea seemed pleased at her greeting and asked Jeralt to retake his post. She had meetings but Tate knew she'd be able to find a chance to speak to her later. For now she probably had to soothe Seteth.

“You seem to know more than you're letting on. And now they want you to teach.” Jeralt shook his head.

“Go on and start cleaning up your office. I'll be fine. Tate told him.

“Fine but you're filling me in soon as you're free, young lady.” Jeralt said, shaking his head.

“As soon as I can.” She assured him, then waited politely for Manuela and Hanneman.

It was all a formality, but she was ready. She could soon go see everyone again, old friends and family, the first time to meet them all again. She couldn't wait.

Chapter 2: Where one twin goes, the other needs to follow

Chapter Text

With a grumbled yawn, Jorah awoke. He was surprised to find himself in a tent rather than his actual bed at home. Was this some kind of prank? His husband was getting more creative, apparently.

As he stretched, he became startled at the state of his own arms. They were plain and sturdy, unlittered with the scars that had covered him since the Battle of Garreg Mach. Yet the hair on his arms was still the fine pale blue green it had become once he fully gained Seiros’ Inheritance.

Sitting up, Jorah fumbled in his belongings for a mirror and was again surprised at the face he saw within.

His eyes and hair were the sheen they'd been when he went to sleep, he still had fangs and pointed ears, still looked like he had as Archbishop. Yet his scars were gone, his face was soft and youthful, and his hair short. He hadn't kept it that length since he first changed after the battle.

Was this related to his sister? He knew Tate was going to go back in time. He wanted to accompany her but that had never been possible before. But then… traveling so far back had also not been possible before.

With a sigh, he scrubbed at his hair with one hand. This was going to stick out like a sore thumb. It didn't exactly matter when he was the Archbishop, the Vivacious One looking dramatic was part of the job. But right now he was a guy who wasn't even hired for a teaching job yet. It had even only been happenstance that he got it in the last life.

“First things first.” He straightened up to pack and dress. “I best go find Seteth.” If anyone could help him with looking like a human and not a Nabatean hybrid, it was probably Seteth.

He found a scarf to tie around his hair and put on a travel cloak. It took a little to orient himself in time but thankfully he'd been sent back to a point he was already between jobs and going to apply at Garreg Mach. Heading there in advance was nothing to him now. Particularly with improved strength and stamina.

Making it to Garreg Mach was quite simple for him at this point. Getting a quick lodging to clean up and dress after was also pretty easy. The hard part was going to be getting ahold of Seteth. This was particularly because Jorah knew he was early.

In his last life, it had been a month or so after his sister that he arrived and took the interview. Seteth would have at least slightly adjusted to his father and Tate being around. If he timed this wrong, it was going to be a horrible surprise.

Given how close he'd been to Seteth and Flayn in his last life, he really didn't want to just dump this on him. Seteth was prickly and stern, rather set in his ways, but he had been a very dear friend and father figure to Jorah, and later a great help to him in his work. Jorah felt kind of guilt for causing him problems, even if only in the short term.

He started at the Monastery, on the off chance he could submit an appointment in advance. Jorah really needed to try to sort out his looking like a dragon issue before he ran into his father.

Instead, the first person he ran into was a young girl who was clearly trying to eavesdrop on a meeting in the office. Well, she was young in appearance anyway.

“You may want to back up, it sounds like it's getting heated in there.” Jorah told her, leaning against the wall.

“Ah? Oh!” She jumped in surprise at being spoken to. “Hello, I didn't see you come in. What are you doing up here?”

“It's fine, just step away from the door, I don't want you getting hit.” He repeated. “I need to make an appointment with Seteth, is there a sheet I can sign up?”

“Yes! Let me show you- Ah!” Right then, the door quickly opened.

In an instant, Jorah reached out and scooped up Flayn, pulling her away from the door and setting her down again.

“Whoa! Are you alright, Flayn?” Jorah gave a helpless smile and ruffled her hair. “Don't scare me like that.”

“Yes, thank you.” Flayn caught her breath, more startled than anything. “You were most swift in rescuing me, thank you!”

“It's fine, just watch out in future.” Jorah assured her. “The monastery is a big place, you need to be cautious.”

“You are right.” She nodded, then looked puzzled. “But how did you know my name? I hadn't introduced myself yet…”

“I would like to know that as well.” Came Seteth's voice, sounding perfectly Stern and suspicious.

Jorah looked up with a sigh to see Seteth and Lady Rhea, who had been having a discussion in Seteth's office just now. Juuuust lovely.

Rhea was looking at Jorah with a look of mild curiosity, perhaps a trace of something familiar to her she saw in his features, but didn't care much for. Knowing Flayn was not in danger was more important but Rhea was quite mild in her response so far, unlike her brother.

Jorah covered his face with his palm and groaned.

“Hey Seteth. Archbishop.” He gave a sort of nodding greeting. “I can explain, but I also desperately need to speak to you, Seteth. In private if possible.”

Seteth's eyes remained narrowed and he stepped aside, gesturing firmly into his office with a single brush of his hand.

“Step inside. We can meet now. Lady Rhea has other matters to attend to. And Flayn-” he paused, clearly frustrated. “Go upstairs until I call for you.”

“But, Brother!” she protested, “I really think he means me no harm-”

“I will have no objections on this, Flayn.”

“Don't just trust people because they were nice to you once, you're going to get tricked like that.” Jorah couldn't help adding, habitual worry for her coming naturally to him. “We’re going to go talk. Just do what your brother says, please. He's worried about you and it'll make him feel better.”

Flayn looked between the two of them then shook her head, leaving quote reluctantly.

Jorah headed into Seteth's office, quickly followed by the man himself.

“I won't be forgetting your transgressions just because you reinforced my statement this time, so you know.”

“I wouldn't expect it. Flayn is the dearest person in the world to you, anything to do with her is going to make you jumpy. I really can't undo how fishy that makes me seem but I don't have a lot of options here.”

“Knowing that also does not help you seem less suspicious. Just what is it that you desperately need my help with exactly?” Seteth crossed his arms.

Jorah went for the simplest method, pulling off the scarf he wore to cover his hair and ears, and the one blocking some of his face.

Immediately, Seteth's expression went from suspicious to shocked. He knew just how rare his kind were and Jorah pretty blatantly had features he should not have.

“Yea, exactly. Help? Please? I don't know how to NOT look like this and you were the first person who I thought of who would know how to fix this.”

Catching his breath, Seteth walked forward to slump into his chair. This was a lot to process, clearly.

“When you say you don't know how not to look like this, are you implying that you usually do not?”

“Not at this point anyway!” Jorah shook his head. That wouldn't make sense in context. “I was fully human looking before.”

Seteth pinched his brows. “I can attempt to instruct you but I will need to understand how you got like this. This is also not exactly the best day, I have enough going on.”

“Yeah, I really didn't want to spring this on you at this point.” Jorah rubbed at his hair. “I know you've kinda already got hiring problems coming.”

“I already have some -” Seteth looked up at him again, and peered suspiciously. “Are you referring to needing professors or something else? Because I have yet to get a source of your information”

Jorah shifted and took a seat in front of Seteth.

“Unfortunately for me, it's deeply unbelievable and extremely hard to prove.” He ran a hand through his bangs. “The explanation 'by the grace of the Goddess’ really will not make it easier to believe either.”

“The Goddess is responsible for many great things, but there are also plenty who claim her name merely for their own benefit.” Seteth agreed.

“Well that's really all I have. I've turned green far earlier than I was supposed to, I know far too much information about secrets of the church and I've got very few options for who to trust and what to do about it.” Jorah leaned on his hand again. “I'm like this because of something Lady Rhea tried to do to help me as a baby that didn't go as planned for her. I know about things and people I shouldn't because I have memories of the future.”

Seteth fidgeted with a pen on his desk, a heavy frown on his face.

“If you believe this power comes from Lady Rhea, why come to me? You saw her in the hall just now.”

“Because I don't exactly have a great relationship with her. Meanwhile, you and Flayn were people I was extremely close to in my last life.” Jorah shrugged his arm loosely. “I came to Garreg Mach because I knew my sister would be showing up here soon, and because I knew you'd be here and could help me. I was going to just make a normal appointment and ask for help on the not looking green thing, but then I had to go blab I knew too much. I can't just make you believe me but it is the only explanation I have.”

“It's hard to believe indeed.” Seteth agreed. Then his brows knit. “You mentioned you knew your sister would be here.”

“Yeah.” Jorah looked at him more closely, noticing the expression change better. “Why, did you suddenly get a new professor and returned knight captain already?”

Immediately Seteth's eyes met his. “That was less than an hour-”

“Well, that saves me some trouble.” Jorah rubbed at his face. “Can you help me, please? I can't exactly go meet my Dad looking like this, he's freaked out enough being back here as it is.”

“You will not be permitted to wander the Academy until I have more reason to believe you are not merely a spy.” Seteth warned him.

“My Dad's office is literally across the hall from yours. You're already suspicious of him and my sister, so it's less work for you if we're all together.”

Seteth sighed through his nose then began to instruct Jorah of what to do to change his features. A full Nabatean probably could not do so but as he was a hybrid, it was likely to work differently.

And indeed it did, for with some effort there was soon a blonde young human in place of the one from before.

“Thanks, Seteth.” Jorah stretched. “Come on then, let's go try to catch up with my sister.”

As it turned out, they arrived just as Tate was coming to meet Jeralt. Her eyes widened at the sight of him.

“You're early.”

“You wanted me to come back with you, it apparently worked.”

Tate's eyes lit up immediately. He could tell, even without a word, she was glad she wasn't alone.

“You tried to come back for your job faster then?”

“No I had a slight problem I came to ask Seteth to help me on. And promptly got in trouble.”

Seteth was looking between the two cautiously.

At this time, Jeralt noted the hold up in the hallway and came to check. He was equally surprised to see his son. “You here too? Apparently the family is just attracted to the Monastery, huh.”

Jorah exchanged a look with his sister. She looked to him then to Seteth, then to their father and back.

“Let's all talk.” She said firmly, shooing Jeralt into the office.

Jorah motioned for Seteth to follow and they locked the door after.

“Are you sure you want him here too? No offense.” Jeralt said, looking oddly at Seteth.

“It'll make all our lives easier if Seteth knows too. He's trustworthy about keeping important secrets.”

“Even from the Archbishop?” Jeralt shot back.

“They're her secrets. And I will meet with her later.” Tate said, still composed as she settled down in her seat.

“I don't think that's a good idea.” Jeralt frowned.

“I need to halt her misunderstandings before they get out of hand.” Tate folded her hands on her lap. “I don't want to wake up- mm.” She shook her head.

Jorah was pretty sure he knew what she was referencing and reached out to pay her hand.

“You both want to know why Rhea wants my sister to be a professor, because you're both worried about your respective children in this situation. Just take a seat and let her talk.”

Seteth flared up at the mention of him having a child, a d his fists clenched but he sat down.

Jeralt just took a seat and leaned on one arm. “Alright, out with it.”

“She hired me because she believes I am a Vessel of the Goddess.” Tate stated, dropping the weight of that statement on the two older men before her as if discussing basic facts.

“Rhea spent a long time trying to create a successful vessel to resurrect her with. Our mother was one.” Jorah added.

“How do you know any of that?” Jeralt visibly tensed at the mention of her.

“Because where our mother was unsuccessful, I am not.” Tate held up her hand, summoning an image of the Crest of Flames.

Both their listeners tensed up at that, seemingly struck with a multitude of emotions.

“You - how did you - what did she do?” Seteth stammered.

“I am pretty sure that's not how Crests are supposed to work.” Jeralt finally managed.

“Apparently, mom being a made vessel and you having Rhea's blood apparently meant when you had kids, it made things really weird with us.” Jorah nodded.

“I was dying. Mother had the Goddess's Crest Stone in her. She begged Lady Rhea to transfer it to me to preserve my life. It would kill her to lose it, but she wanted me to survive.” Tate squeezed her hands at that. “Its why you can't hear my heart beating. That's where-”

“Ok. Okay, kid, that's enough.” Jeralt held up a hand. He was breathing heavily but tried to relax. “I believe you. But what is the rest of this all about?”

“Rhea wishes to resurrect the Goddess. She knows I am the most successful yet. She would have the Goddess take over this Vessel, for me to be no more in place of that person.” Tate continued before Jeralt could swear. “She's wrong, however. That won't happen and isn't how it works. But I was able to gain powers from the Goddess. It brought me and my brother back in time. I wish to fix things that went wrong in our pasts.”

“So you are asking us to believe you are not only from the future but also vessels of the Goddess's power and you are in communication with her spirit.” Seteth was clearly struggling with a lot of it.

“No.” Tate said, matter of factly. “I am. He has Rhea's power. That's separate. He just came back with me because I apparently brought him when I came back.”

“And how did you manage that?” Jeralt was looking at them like he didn't even know what to ask first.

“It's very lonely being the only one who knows what happened in another timeline.” Tate looked at her lap and held onto the fabric of her clothes.

Jeralt looked to Seteth. “I bet you thought your day couldn't get any weirder than us just showing up, huh?”

Seteth looked back at him with a mixture of annoyance and resignation. “It seems like we can only wait and see what Rhea decides on this matter.”

“Yeah we'll let you do that. Come on, Tatey, let's go tell her I'm gonna steal her job.” Jorah joked, standing and helping his sister up.

Holding her hand, he could feel some level of her emotions, something they'd always been able to do through physical contact. It seemingly had only grown stronger with time travel. She was definitely anxious about this explanation, and the upcoming one, though for separate reasons. With their father and Seteth, it was people she loved and respected. With Rhea.. it was still more dread. She had been uncomfortable with her in the last life and would be again.

“I'm with you, we can do this together.” Jorah hugged her to his side.

“We have to.” Tate agreed, heading to the stairs with him.

Chapter 3: Tate confronts Rhea and meets the students again

Chapter Text

“Ah, have you come to see me already, my dear?” Lady Rhea smiled warmly on seeing Tate arriving at her gardens upstairs. Her smile didn't even falter on noting Jorah following after her, though she did look at him with mild curiosity. “Is this your brother?”

“Yes, he is. We have something to discuss with you, if you have time.” Tate fidgeted with her gloves while speaking.

“Of course, I can spare the time, please, take a seat.” Rhea gestured to the tea table before her.

Perhaps to not make her favoritism blatant immediately, she addressed Jorah as they took their seats. “I had wondered what became of you when you weren't with your father and sister… we met downstairs earlier, did we not? You were dressed different then.”

“Yes. I needed Seteth's guidance on something of importance.” Jorah agreed mildly. He hadn't lost his temper just speaking to her, which was good.

“I must say, that is intriguing. I had thought your father severed all ties with the Church and may not educate you on it. Let alone knowing those who weren't present during his time at the Monastery.”

“You're right about that. Might just be related to what we want to discuss, who knows.”

“Is it now? I wonder.” Rhea was still displaying the placid and ethereal sort of expression she was fond of using on outsiders.

“I want to discuss the Goddess.” Tate folded her hands in front of herself. “And your attempts to resurrect her.”

Rhea went from a briefly intrigued expression of delight to one of a more ambiguous interest.

“Oh? What is it you wish to discuss?”

“Your success, though not in the way you want.” Tate took a deep breath and let herself remember that she was not truly the young girl she appeared, but someone who had already gone through this.

Rhea frowned, her brows knitting slightly. “How so?”

“Sothis has awakened. But she cannot, and will not, take over her 'vessel’ as you wish. She has, however, shared her power with me.”

Rhea's fists were clenching beneath her sleeves, just barely hidden from view. Still she maintained her expression admirably. “And what makes you think that, child?”

“Because it has already come to pass.” Tate looked fully into Rhea's eyes. “You tried to resurrect your mother, you wished me to sit on her throne when you felt she had awoken. But she was already gone by that point. And I have fully inherited her power now.”

“Already come to pass?”

“I have turned back the hands of time, and it is time to finish the cycle.” Tate's voice took on a bit of an echo as she said this, a symptom of the changes her powers had brought. “I can help you regain that which you want the most, but all things come at a Price, Seiros'.”

Rhea's hands had begun to shake on the table, and her eyes were fixated on Tate's, as if her willpower alone could force this to be true. For what she wanted to be in reach.

“And why offer this to me? You seem to have a rather cold view of my motives.” Rhea was gritting her teeth as she spoke. Her desperation for her mother battled her desire for control of the situation.

“You are the type of person who would overturn the whole world for those you love. So are we.” Jorah interjected. He had stood at some point and begun to brew tea for the three of them. “Though who and what we love is very different.”

“I would rather you know the truth and be able to settle matters peacefully between us than to allow you to persist in shows of favoritism based on false hope that can never be achieved.” Tate took the tea she was passed and began to sip it. “I understand you better now than I did the first time.”

Rhea looked between the two then took the cup of tea she was handed.

“You say you understand me better. How could you possibly imagine you could?”

“Watching people I loved dying, becoming ill, fading away. Many of those dear to me had their lives stolen from them, directly and indirectly by enemies of all humanity.” Tate looked up once more. “My life isn't as long as yours has been, and I do not know the overwhelming fear and loneliness, the desperation you felt. Is it wrong to want to avoid more unnecessary conflict? There is someone we both want the best for.”

Rhea stared at the tea, like it could hold answers. Finally she drank some.

“What do you propose? You said the cycle must end.”

“Resurrection will not work. It will only trap her further. In sleep, in a half living state, and a spirit within a body that is not hers. She is the Beginning. And all things must End eventually.”

“So you wish me to just give up? To let you go with her powers and no consequences?!”

Tate looked up at her again, then narrowed her eyes. “You do not have the power to stop me. And that is not what I said.” She refilled her teacup and continued promptly. “She is the Beginning. So you cannot force her to continue as the same. She must start again.”

Rhea's eyes widened and the hand holding her cup shook slightly.

“I have tried-”

“It didn't work. Partly because of what you used and partly because you did not have the power needed. It is only after she fully passed on and after I fully awakened I gained the power needed. To come back, to end the cycle, and let her move on. Not as a goddess but a mortal. Free of the past. You cannot resurrect her, but you can be there for the new life she will have.”

“I will take time to think about it.” Rhea said at last. There was likely a lot she had to come to terms with.

“As she regains her memories, before we separate, I may be able to help you to speak with her.” Tate offered, tentatively placing a hand on Rhea's free hand. “I cannot be her, I can only be myself. But Sothis is someone precious to me and I know she was to you.”

--I cannot even remember who I was. It is unsettling to have you both speaking of me but having no input myself.--

Is there any input you wish to give?

– No, and that is the most frustrating! I do not know enough of myself to have anything to say!--

Rhea's eyes widened and she was looking at Tate in shock.

Jorah glanced between the two then at the hand on Rhea's arm.

“Ah, so you heard her then, I'm guessing.”

“Is that.. ? It was brief but she sounded…”

“Like a kid? Yeah. Same as Flayn looks so young on top of having slept for years. It's part of the healing process.” Jorah chimed in.

Rhea looked at him sharply.

Jorah looked back at her, snorting at her attitude.

“Blame yourself if I know too much about it. My sister's a goddess of sorts, and I'm a hybrid of your damn powers. I'm from where she's from, and I had to figure out all the stupid powers on my own for the most part. And then I had to learn to do your damn job because stuff happened to you, and you were all 'Oh give my sacred duties to someone who definitely doesn't want them and who is also unavailable, so absolutely nothing gets done for a while.”

Tate watched as he finally showed even a fraction of the frustration he had with the Archbishop. His features had begun to resemble how they did in the Other Timeline again too. Perhaps he had lost focus on what Seteth had taught him to hide it.

“My powers?” Rhea asked, seemingly overwhelmed with the new information in addition to the rest. The change to Jorah's features had probably been quite the emphasis on his point. *And…my sacred duties?”

Tate watched and decided they may as well just rip off the bandage at once.

“In the Other Timeline, you died. In a final stand against a great enemy. He was your successor.”

“Why? He doesn't have the same authority as a representative of goddess you would.”

“I didn't want it.” Tate admitted. “I don't want to be a goddess. I had a power I didn't want and while I may try to use it responsibly to help others, I have no obligation to your religion.”

“And I actually thought it was useful to not scrap it like was suggested. I had to clear up a lot of the stupid things you had going that didn't align to the new landscape of Fodlan, but I think did a pretty good job preserving the important parts of what you created while revising.” Jorah crossed his arms over his chest.

Rhea narrowed her eyes once more. “You have quite a deal of nerve.”

“It's quite necessary to deal with a bunch of stubborn old dragons.” Jorah shot back.

Tate leaned on her hands, watching them and feeling her eyes soften.

--Is there anything to even be amused at in this situation?--

This is the longest and most productive conversation I've seen with them.

--She would have lost her temper with this entire topic previously, would she not?--

Mhm. But I think she may be more open to things in time. We've given her concrete hope.

--Your brother seems more like he's giving her a hard time.--

I think… he may have wanted her acknowledgement for a very long time and not realized it.

--To be a willing successor but unacknowledged through not fault of one's own… it dies seem hard.--

Sothis stifled a yawn and Tate rolled her shoulders slightly to stretch.

“We have taken a great deal of your time, Archbishop. I know this was a lot on you. If you wish to rescind appointing me as a professor-”

Rhea held up a hand to silence her. She looked pensive before finally speaking up. “I am overwhelmed and admittedly frustrated. But I appreciate your honesty and respect for my wishes if nothing else.”

She rubbed her temples and took a breath. “I need more time to think about the deeper matters but I will not object to you teaching. I have already given you the job and it would be foolish to take it back now. You should still meet with the students, they will be expecting you… though if you have already lived this life once, you have met them before.”

“We have, but it will still be good to give them a new first impression.” Tate looked to her brother and playfully waggled her finger. “No letting the students know you already know the future.”

“I'm not even hired yet. Anyway letting a secret slip when I need to ask Seteth for inexplicable help is different.”

“You've changed again by the way.” Tate nudged him.

Jorah grumbled and closed his eyes, refocusing and going back to blonde and human looking.

Rhea watched them both and finally asked something she seemed to have been wondering, “If you previously learned from the powers I gave you, why did you need this assistance?”

“Because the powers I learned were something else, and the look was just an after-effect that built over time. By the time I completely looked like that, I was having to officially take over for you and the full look and regalia worked. When I came back, I was fully this way already instead of gradually. I'm just some guy right now.”

She looked at him, still seeming to evaluate him.

“How did you explain to Seteth? You have him quite the scare.”

“We told him and our father the truth. I had already blundered into admitting to Seteth.”

“And telling our father was the only way to keep him from panicking at you any more than he already has.” Tate tilted her head, looking at the distant sky.

“Jeralt was a dear friend once, I am sorry for what happened between us.” Rhea did actually sounded remorseful, but also resigned.

“There's nothing to really be done about that now. We can all only move forward.” Tate suggested.

“Seteth is waiting for your judgment on our situation by the way. He will need to hear from you if you believe we're time travelers or spies or what.” Jorah added. “I can't apply for the assistant job while he's suspicious of me, and I actually like teaching. I want my job back.”

Rhea snorted, “You have a funny way to ask for favors.”

“You get a great deal by vouching for us with him. Two professors with experience teaching these exact students and one of those two has years of teaching and running the Officer's Academy on top of it. That's a bargain.”

“I'll talk to him. Go meet the students with your sister, it will be more efficient than you having to apply then meet them all later.”

“I appreciate it. Thank you, Lady Rhea.” Jorah gave a proper bow at this time.

They left her in peace and Tate took a deep breath to settle herself when they were downstairs.

“Should we go together?” Tate asked.

“Hmmm… we could. But we could also go separately before anyone knows we're siblings and baffle everyone who has no idea who I am?”

She stifled a huffy little giggle.

“Yes. Go on. You want to tease your Deer. Just give Manuela a heads up.”

“Oh I will. I have to tell her hello again now I've come to help her.~ Meet you downstairs later.”

Slowly, she made her way down to meander through and meet the various students. She would find the House Leaders last, as they already knew she was to be a professor.

Just to save the best (her favorites, rather) for last, she started with the Golden Deer. Her brother's students, mainly, though she's got along with many.

Tate looked placid all the while, but internally she tittered at Lorenz with that terrible old haircut of his. And he immediately tried to invite her for tea.

“I do not think that would work.” She told him. “I like women. Good day.”

She promptly walked off to greet someone else before he could respond. Instead she quickly went over to greet the largest and friendliest person in the room.

Unfortunately, Raphael had been in conversation with Leonie and Tate was brutally reminded of her insufferable rambling about Jeralt when she was young. Tate tried to take it all in stride.

“Hi, I'm Potato. Nice to meet you both. Thanks for the directions to the dining hall, that's very helpful.”

Leonie looked at her oddly, “Potato, really? Is that a joke? Come on, I don't think the Captain would-”

“Wow your name's Potato? That's pretty nice! Do you like eating them a lot?”

“You can ask my father if you want. He didn't tell me about apprentices either, so you may have to ask him about that too. He doesn't tell me much.” Tate at least gave her a closing response before nodding to Raphael. “I do, they're really easy to cook.”

“They sure are! But I like most things. Gotta eat well to be big and strong!”

“I agree. Anyway, I need to meet the others. Nice meeting you both.” She gave Raphael a friendly arm pat before immediately going on her way.

Hilda was as chatty and usual, but poor Marianne had not yet come out if her shell. Tate felt a sigh in her heart. She hoped her brother would be able to bond with his Deer and soon.

It was nice to see Ignatz and Lysithea again as well, though it was bittersweet. Lysithea was another who deserved a better future than she had potential for in her past. But that was for later.

For now, she slipped out and headed for the Blue Lions. She always liked to see her dear friends there. She and Jorah would probably fight heavily over the Lions, as usual.

She couldn't quite smile but did almost skip her whole way over to Ashe and Dedue. Ashe was as sweet and welcoming as she remembered, and Dedue solid and reliable, grateful for her assistance to Dimitri.

“I am very happy to meet you both. I am Potato or Tate. I look forward to interacting more with you both.” She shook Ashe's hand and gave Dedue a polite nod. “Have either of you learned about the activities available for students yet? I have heard there are greenhouses open to students.”

“I believe there are. I have been collecting some seeds to begin growing crops.” Dedue seemed more open to speaking on something that interested him - but she knew that. Dedue had been the person in her last life who took the time to teach her about the greenhouses.

“Yes, there are plots at the school for growing medicinal plants as well as herbs, spices and flowers. I have been looking forward to a exploring then more.” Ashe agreed. “Though some of that is because I'm hoping to make a few dishes I miss from home.”

“If you require assistance in procuring anything, I will keep my eye out.” Dedue suggested.

“Oh that would be great, thanks Dedue. I'd there anything I can keep a look out for you too?”

Dedue hesitated, likely feeling he may be overstepping. People were not exactly friendly about him or his culture.

“I look forward to hearing more of your expertise in the future, Dedue. We both value your input.” Tate told him, as gently as she could.

Ashe nodded in agreement. “Exactly. I look forward to exchanging information with both of you.”

Tate happily went from them to Annette and Mercedes, exchanging warm greetings with them. She stayed for a few minutes to chat with them, mostly about magic or hair care tips after she'd complimented Mercedes for how soft her hair was. They were some of Tate's dear friends in the last life and she hoped to be so again.

She was slightly less enthusiastic to talk to Ingrid and Felix, but only slightly. However, she unintentionally got her first Exasperated Ingrid Sigh early when Felix had immediately wanted to talk about a spar and when Ingrid was about to scold him for it, Tate had spoken up to ask if he was free for it in a few days. Ingrid had been frustrated but Felix was pleased.

The whole situation attracted the attention and a laugh from a familiar source. Tate had managed to get over her discomfort with Sylvain years ago, but that didn't make her eager to meet him again. Especially not with things still looming on the horizon to deal with.

She decided to get this last hurdle over with and faced him. He made some overture of calling her a beauty, probably the same line from her last life. She steeled herself then spoke quickly.

“No, thank you, I only like girls that way. Bye.” And she strode past him exactly as swiftly, if not moreso than when she had left Lorenz. She even passed Jorah on her way out the door who raised an eyebrow at her then strode in.

Tate headed on swiftly to the place she'd been wanting to go. The last but never the least. It was time to see her little Eagles again.

She started with her dear Bernie bear and Ferdie. Tate couldn't help she was practically beaming on entering the room. Even when her mouth didn't move, her eyes crinkled at the edges and she watched them enthusiastically. She also made a point to stand exactly where Bernadetta could see her before greeting them.

“Oh no, more strangers!” She didn't shriek but did try to back away.

“This person is the one who saved our house leader, Bernadetta.” Ferdinand tried to explain. There had obviously been confusion when her brother popped in. He still gave Tate a proper introduction, full name and all.

“Ferdinand von Aegir. I will remember it.” She assured him. He would never know of the habit she'd struggled for years to break of accidentally calling his full name whenever addressing him because he always used it in battle.

“My name is Potato Eisner, but I go by Tate. Does that make me less of a stranger?” She asked Bernadetta.

Bernadetta looked at her before squeaking out an introduction.

“Thank you.” She tried a tiny smile for them before proceeding on to Caspar and Linhardt.

These two were as delightfully opposites as ever. Caspar was enthusiastic about meet, and Linhardt dismissive.

“Maybe we can talk about research some other time. You seem tired.” Tate told Linhardt then gave Caspar nod. “I'm making sparring appointments with people already. I'll find you for one later.”

“Sure!!!” Caspar was already cheering. Linhardt said less but seemed more pleased than before, giving a quiet smile that was interrupted by a yawn.

Dorothea was charming and sweet as ever and Tate had to resist the urge to hug her and rub cheeks in greeting or something equally silly. Still, she listened to Dorothea's greeting with a fond and indulgent look.

“Is there something on my face?” Dorothea asked with a smile, on seeing Tate's face after her introduction.

“No, you're just very nice to listen to. I definitely want to hear you sing sometime. It's nice to meet you, Dorothea.”

“Aw, don't be a stranger. I appreciate any flattery.~”

At last, Tate made her way back to the other side of the room. Petra and Hubert were in conversation and Tate stopped to watch them for a moment. She still recalled too vividly how he looked before she left. That would need changing.

Hubert was the one to greet her of the pair, establishing himself and his position to Edelgard, as well as introducing Petra. It was very efficient of him.

“I admire your Lady very much, I imagine we will be seeing plenty of each other in future, Hubert.” Tate stated this plainly before she responded to Petra's greeting.

Instead of greeting her with the language of Fodlan, she responded in the one of Brigid. “-I too am learning of Brigid. We will learn well together.-”

Instantly, Petra lit up and responded in rapidfire Brigid, asking about her studies and the like. Tate did her best to respond in kind, citing a friend she had learned from. Petra didn't need to know the friend in question was Petra herself.

Hubert watched the conversation with interest. He didn't say much but clearly could follow the conversation to some degree.

Tate caught her breath after keeping up the short chat with Petra.

“A mercenary with interest in research, combat, and now the Brigid language. I wonder what other surprises you will bring.” Hubert observed, sounding very much like he wanted to dissect her. This had never been an effective intimidation tactic on her.

“You shall have to wait and see what else there is to know. Goodbye.”

Tate went to find the House Leaders last. In her prior life, she had politely declined Dimitri and Claude when asked to hear about their housemates but this time she listened to each. Some part of her felt it might be a waste of all of their time, but another admitted she held a little guilt towards them. They had no hope of being her choice, but they could never truly understand why.

She felt the most guilty towards Claude of the two, when left to think of it. Dimitri had been a dear friend and a little brother, but Claude had been Jorah's husband. They had been happily married, without the same problems she had experienced. Both were happy together and in excellent health. But she had still brought Jorah with her. He hadn't expressed any regret about it, and perhaps they had talked and he had none. But in her heart, she felt he'd given up his happy married life for hers.

“I'm sure you'll like us.” Claude offered helpfully after his spiel, seeing Tate still listening patiently. “We're not as… difficult as the other two.”

Tate tilted her head. “The Deer are the loudest. And wildest. With the least respect for authority… What makes them less difficult exactly?”

“Really? That's kind of harsh.” Claude looked a little helpless at her response. It had been many years since she'd seen him so easily thrown off.

“There's a secret reason too.” Tate said, as if trying to be conspiratorial. She couldn't not tease him, after all.

“I do like a good secret. What is it?” Claude's eyes sparkled with mischief.

“I think Edelgard is prettier than you and Dimitri.” She promptly flicked his forehead as she couldn't grin at him with ease. “See you later, Claude.”

You have someone who will be the proper match soon enough, little dreamer. Even if you don't remember right now.

Claude was good enough to chuckle while rubbing his forehead as Tate left.

She could see Jorah chatting with Dimitri as she walked by and Jorah had grinned and pointed to her as he said something to Dimitri. She waved at them both. She had gotten Dimitri's little spiel but she had already made her choice. Now it was time for the grand finale.c

Edelgard was the last she sought out, and took a seat by her before asking her evaluations of every one of the Black Eagles. Tate had listened to this entire speech in her last life but she would happily do so again. She would give - had given - everything to be able to hear Edelgard speak again.

I've missed you so much. I never want us to lose each other again.

“Professor, are you alright?” Edelgard paused, reaching out her gloved hand to brush Tate's cheek. It was only then it became clear she'd started to tear up.

“Ah, yes, I am. It has just been a long day.” Tate assured her. “A professorship is not something I expected to have suddenly handed to me.”

“I understand. I did hear you had gone to the other class leaders and houses before this. Do you need me to wrap up quickly?”

“No. I was looking forward to hearing your speech most.” Tate patted Edelgard's gloved hand.

“I would hardly call it a speech.” Edelgard gave a soft chuckle.

“I am enjoying listening anyway.” Tate admitted.

Edelgard peered at her for a moment, “I would almost suspect you aren't seriously considering the classes at all.”

“I did already decide which I want to teach. Meeting everyone was for social necessity and first impressions. If I do well networking, isn't it better for us in the long run?”

Eyes widening, Edelgard gasped then seemed to realize her meaning.

“Then you have selected…?”

“You can count on me to guide the Black Eagles to new heights.” Tate closed her eyes and managed a gentle smile this time. Not super forced or deep, just a shallow small smile mimicking the kind her beloved would give at times.

“Thank you, Professor. I look forward to all I can learn from you.”

Tate bowed politely then headed back. She felt refreshed and happy, though quite tired. She would see people she loved taken care of even more diligently this life.

Chapter 4: Jorah gets short and sweet first impressions

Chapter Text

For all Jorah teased his sister that he wanted to go separately meet everyone, he didn't actually have too serious designs on most of the meetings, he was mostly giving her an excuse to go ahead while he caught up with Manuela. Though he was planning to tease Claude this time, that just came with the territory.

He had only briefly stopped in with Tate's Eagles, mainly confusing her boisterous ginger and her shrinky archer.

“No, I'm not the famed mercenary. I'm just visiting. Manuela told me one of my old colleagues was in this class so I stopped by on my way.” Jorah explained with his best impression of a sheepish smile.

Hubert took the chance to say something scathing about Ferdinand bit even remembering Lady Edelgard's description of the mercenary she met, but Jorah wasn't actually listening to them, instead going over to greet Dorothea.

“Oh, I remember you! You were a stagehand at the Opera before. It's good to see you again.” Dorothea was polite but distant as one might to a former colleague one was greeting in passing.

“Yeah, I heard you were here from Manuela. I took an assistant position with her. Are you going to sign up for the choir when it opens?”

“I may have to if we don't get any better options.” Dorothea sighed.

“I had a vague idea we should get a proper drama club going around here. It's no proper Opera company but it would probably be fun.”

“Oh that sounds fantastic. Tell me if you get anything going with that!” Dorothea was properly enthusiastic at that idea.

“I'll keep my ears open for others interested and let you know if and when we do sign-ups.” Jorah agreed. “Nice seeing you, Dorothea.”

He slipped back out of the room with a wave. This meant he was just in time to enter the Blue Lions’ classroom as his sister was making a swift exit while telling Sylvain she only liked girls.

The rejected redhead in question looked a bit baffled at her exit before turning to Jorah in confusion.

“Am I just off my game or what? It can't be that I'm not good looking enough, right?”

“May just be your bad luck. You flirted with a girl who only likes ladies then asked if you were good looking enough to a guy who likes men. You're striking out in the audience department all over here, Gautier.”

Sylvain snorted, “Fair enough. But ouch, I see my reputation proceeds me.”

“Your family's does anyway. It's really useful if you need to suddenly pretend you're a nobles illegitimate cast off, just dye your hair the right shade of red and pretend you're super embarrassed about your family.”

That got a proper eyeroll and a chuckle. “Well, at least it's doing someone good anyway.”

“Figured that nonsense was funnier than telling you I was standing close enough to hear when you have her your name.” Jorah grinned at Sylvain then promptly went to go say hello to more of the class.

Dedue seemed surprised to have more new people greeting him so warmly today, but Ashe didn't see any issue with it. Even just checking in, Jorah was glad to see them. He had always had a soft spot for his former dance students, particularly these two.

He greeted the other Lions briefly, not wanting to get too overwhelming on the first day. Just getting to meet them first and then meander to where he really wanted to be. He'd guessed how Tate would visit the houses, so he had to do the reverse route. Especially when he suspected she likely took the chance to nip a couple of problems for herself in the bud.

As soon as he walked into the Golden Deer classroom, Jorah was hit with a wave of nostalgia. It had been many years since this class with these students. But he still missed them, every joke and party and distraction.

Where his sister had been internally giggling at and had to dissuade Lorenz, Jorah listened to him with a small smile. He had seen Lorenz far beyond this stage he was in and couldn't help having affection on seeing it again.

“You know, your hair is a fantastic color, I think it would look amazing if you grew it out instead of keeping it so close cut. It would really bring out your features to even more advantage.”

Lorenz paused, stopping mid-thought on what had likely been a longer speech. “I… Thank you. I shall take it into consideration.” He always bloomed better under compliments and suggestions than being told his haircut was ugly.

“Yeah, sorry, I’m a little fashion minded sometimes, I can't help it. Helps when hanging around nobles though.” Jorah shrugged and smiled.

“Oh good, someone else who knows the important things in life!” Hilda chimed in. “See, plenty of people care about it.” That was directed at Leonie, who she had apparently just been chatting about that with.

“I just don't see the point. And- hey… that's weird. I thought that girl was Captain Jeralt's kid. But you actually look more like him…”

“I thought caring about pedigree was his thing?” Jorah pointed at Lorenz rather than answering her question. “Anyway, yes. I like fashion, art, music, cooking. All that fun stuff.”

“Oh you'll fit right in with our class then!” Raphael gave Jorah a stiff clap on his shoulders.

The others flinched at seeing the impact, but were startled to find that Jorah hadn't moved in the slightest. Instead, he just grinned at Raphael and gave him a slap in return, much to the young man's delight.

“You think so? I'm glad. You're a pretty cool bunch.”

“Right?! Our house has been pretty great so far, and we're just getting started!”

“You said you like art? I'd love to discuss what types you know about. If you have time in the future, that is.” Ignatz joined in once something he liked was mentioned. But then, that was to be expected. Jorah knew his friends well.

He hung around with them a little longer before heading out. There would be plenty of time to catch up as soon as he took over helping with their class.

He wasn't going to bother getting a class rundown from Edelgard, just giving his former sister-in-law a short greeting and going to find his “little brother”.

Dimitri had been surprised to meet him, but he warmed up after a little casual conversation. Jorah had the experience of how to talk to Dimitri from many years together, and at this point in time the prince would be craving someone who would just treat him as just another student. It's how they'd first made friends and how they had persisted over the years.

When Tate passed them - presumably finished talked to Claude - Jorah gestured at her.

“There goes my sister.”

“Ah, that’s your sister? She's quite skilled.” Dimitri looked surprised. He returned the wave Tate gave them a little awkwardly but seeming pleased.

“Yeah, I heard you guys met her and my dad while running from some bandits.”

“We did. I was very impressed by her strength and skill in combat. I'm looking forward to learning from her.” He stopped then gave an awkward smile. “Of course, that is not to discount your potential skill as well.”

Jorah gave a soft snort and pat Dimitri's arm. “I knew what you meant, it's fine. You'll learn what I can do enough, I'm sure.”

He left him soon after chatting for just a little longer. It was nice seeing Dimitri in better health. He was going to have to arm twist Rhea about giving him some better medication soon though. He already knew the right recipes to aid in his issues, so just getting him started on things to better his quality of life would do wonders.

As Jorah thought of this to himself, he made his way over to Claude at long last. He hadn't seen a baby-faced and inexperienced Claude in so long and it was going to be nice to catch up.

He might've been more anxious about their parting across time, but he had full confidence that his spouse was right about them. They'd find each other even in another life. He could even give them a better future. He just needed to be patient about it.

“Is this spot taken?” Jorah gestured to the wall next to where Claude was leaning.

Claude glanced at it then back to him, “It appears to still be there, but I'll happily watch an attempt at stealing it if you make one.”

“I would but I think that might compromise the structural integrity of the wall and I'm not sure you need to get crushed under a building, unless that's your idea of a good time?” Jorah took his chance to lean against the wall while he spoke.

“You might be right there. I apparently can't even handle a flick to the forehead, ow. Seriously, am I getting a mark?” Claude pulled up his bangs scrunching his eyes in pain when he poked his forehead.

“You shouldn't be.” Jorah frowned and reached forward to check, casting a small healing spell just in case. Tate was usually extremely gentle with most people.

Strangely, on checking, he couldn't find even a red spot from where she flicked him. Yet Claude definitely seemed like he was getting a headache.

“Yeah I'm not finding anything. Might be bad timing? How long have you been out here? Might be time to grab some water and get a break.”

“Mother Hen much, Teach?” Claude mumbled.

At the same moment, he and Jorah shared a look of confusion.

“You ok?” Jorah raised a brow. He was trying to not slip up like he had with Flayn earlier and call someone's name that he shouldn't know. But he also hadn't said he was a Professor anywhere yet so it was odd for Claude to start in on that already.

“Yeah. Just felt like that was what I should be calling you. You're pretty young for a teacher though, maybe it's the fussiness.”

“I'm the same age as my twin and she's one.” Jorah pointed out dryly. “Anyway, I'm an assistant teacher for Manuela now, so you aren't wrong exactly.”

“One gets to be a full teacher and one has to be an assistant, how's that work?” Claude looked him over curiously. As with anyone new, his smile was easy but not genuine. “I haven't seen you in battle yet so maybe it's warranted.”

“I guess you'll see how good I am or not soon enough.” Jorah gave a mysterious shrug.

“Oh, now that sounds promising.”

“Maybe. But that's a later problem. Seriously, go get a drink of water and take a break. You don't seem like you're feeling any better.”

“I was going to try to argue but yeah, my head's killing me. I'll talk to you some other time then, Teach.”

Jorah watched Claude till he was suitably back in the Golden Deer classroom. He felt kind of worried but tried to brush it off.

Instead he went to catch up with his sister so they could pass on class choices. Manuela had been willing to let him pick for the two of them so they would have his house as soon as he could get in and choose it.

As he made it back upstairs and slung an arm around Tate's shoulder, he caught the tail end of a conversation she was having with Sothis while they waited.

--I feel like you have been leaking power again. You must be more careful with how much the flow of time can be affected by you!--

I really don't recall what I did. I will try to be more vigilant in future.

Jorah raised a brow at his sister but she shrugged. She honestly didn't know either.

When they arrived, they had some time to relax and wait before Manuela and Hanneman joined them. Rhea was likely still recovering from their talk. Only Seteth was in the room already.

“I was informed you had also taken up a position with us under the Archbishop's auspices.” He commented to Jorah, looking somewhat annoyed but unsurprised.

“I was perfectly willing to go through an interview but I needed her to confirm my references with you like we said. It just do happened it was easier to just go through adding us both at once.” He gave an apologetic smile. “If it makes you feel better, we can both take your exams to more accurately gauge our teaching level?~”

Seteth looked at him, exasperated. “I am starting to believe your story, if only for your excessive familiarity with the minutiae of my administration matters.”

“You don't want to see me deal with the records and accounting business.” Jorah gave a sour expression. “Or marriage law and rituals.”

“You were in the books for a month in advance of-” Tate shut up as Jorah clapped a hand over her mouth.

“I think we've given him enough of a headache, thanks Tate.” Jorah was NOT dealing with the can of worms that was officiating Flayn's wedding. “I had sacred duties befitting my role and properly researched them in advance, that's all.”

Seteth chose to let that be as he continued going through his preparations for the meeting instead.

“I shall schedule you both of the necessary starting teaching level exams. We will see how many you successfully get through before I fully set your graduation and compensation.”

“That suits us.” Jorah assured him, setting his hands back at his sides.

Rhea returned to the audience chamber after a while and she was doing followed by the other two professors.

Manuela stepped to Jorah's side with a smile and lightly patted his hair. She knew full well he was 0% interested in her, but had a healthy respect for her just the same, and she'd take what appreciation was available.

“Did you have a good time meeting the students? I know you didn't get quite the same chance for them to know you in advance but still…”

“It went fine. I also have a few people who may be interested in that club we discussed.”

“Well good. Keep me posted then.” Manuela smiled then settled down so Rhea could speak.

The Archbishop kept to her formal presentation very well, not showing the fatigues of their earlier conversation at all. She walked then through the introduction then allowed Manuela and Hanneman to present their input on selection.

“As you are new here, Manuela and I felt you should have first pick.” Hanneman told Tate.

“Then, after your sister, you are allowed to pick the House that we will handle together.” Manuela agreed.

“Yes, indeed.” Hanneman cleared his throat with a small cough, “And I will of course take charge of the remaining House.”

There was no suspense as to Tate's choice, or his own, but Jorah tried to not appear too enthusiastic claiming the Golden Deer just after.

“Of course, though I'm Professor Manuela's assistant, I am happy to help you with the Blue Lions where I'm free as well, Professor Hanneman.” Jorah told him politely.

“All of the students have admirable qualities. We will give our best efforts in training them all well.” Tate added. Her confident demeanor coupled with her blank expression reminiscent of her experience years later, both on the battlefield and in charge of national politics.

Rhea still had a somewhat fond look saying her heart had chosen. She probably realized, at least on some level, that that choice was more deeply ingrained than others might. Still, she allowed Seteth to continue the topic on the mock battle they would deal with.

Perhaps due to the earlier scare, Flayn did not end up interrupting the meeting with the professors this time. Jorah was pretty sure he caught her peeking from the doorway but she didn't come in just yet. He pretended not to spot her for now. They could reintroduce themselves in future.

For now, it was time to rest. The students would receive the full announcement about their professors in the morning. They'd gone through enough for one day and Jorah, at least, was ready to crash for a few hours.

Chapter 5: The Princess Awakens

Chapter Text

The day the classes got to meet the newly arrived professor, Edelgard found herself lost in thought as she went to bed in the evening. She had felt strange for most of the afternoon, lost in thought but unable to truly account for why. It had all begun from when she had noticed Tate inexplicably tearing up as they were talking.

She had felt compelled to reach out and brush away the tears at the first glimpse of them. It was a surprise to her as well, but she put that aside as a result of her already existing good impression of the girl.

Edelgard had been intrigued with Tate since they had met at Remire Village. She had been fleeing bandits with the other house leaders and had been able to gain aid from mercenaries camped in the area.

The bandits had been hired by her, of course, but the situation had been allowed room to get out of hand. That was better for her cover, to leave ways to surprise herself, and some plausible deniability in the face of things coming to light. As it turned out, the loose ends of her plan had led to an unexpectedly valuable find.

Tate had been fierce in battle, focused and efficient. She had dealt with the bandits as if it were a simple chore. Yet when the leader had come after Edelgard in a final stand, Tate had swept in and sent him flying. It had been rather nice being suddenly protected like that, and Edelgard had almost deceived herself into thinking she saw a flash of emotion in Tate's eyes as she struck him.

Her skills and mystery had been worthy of Edelgard evaluating her as a potential ally, but being rescued had left an unmistakable soft spot in her well armored heart. That had lingered and been reinforced in all further interactions.

To see her cry inexplicably had been a surprise, and Edelgard had brushed away those light tears almost unthinkingly. Tate had reassured her about it, but the incident lingered in Edelgard's mind. It felt as if the warmth of her skin and the invisible marks from her tears had sunk through Edelgard's gloves straight through into her heart.

She hadn't understood why it lingered in her mind so powerfully. Not until she fell asleep that night.

In the dark, she felt returned to that scene. To the soft look in Tate's eyes as they spoke. Before, Edelgard couldn't say she knew her well enough to recognize the expression, but seeing it again now, it seemed brimming with tenderness and adoration. Edelgard gasped as she felt the recognition hit her - that she seemed to know this person so well that she could understand all meaning from simply a glance.

I love you, I have missed you, I'm overwhelmed by just how happy I am to be together.

The words didn't have to be explicitly said for Edelgard to understand the meaning. They had been together and in love for so many years now, how could she fail to understand her wife?

Yes, that's right… her wife.

It was startling at first but quickly the thoughts began to flow and blend, systematically following the crack in the dam of her memory.

Before her, she saw flashes of those same looks from the same woman, given over multiple years. Tate's face losing the girlish softness and slowly growing more mature and elegant with age. Edelgard couldn't see it but was sure she looked similarly older in these memories.

The situations were different - casual scenes, battles, grand meetings and ceremonies. Coronations in grandeur, blood spattered moments at war, a wedding among friends and at last, a fading vision of her hand being held tightly as that same wife cried and seemed unable to express anything beyond her tears for just how much she felt.

Edelgard woke with a start, breathing heavily in bed.

Unlike her usual nightmares, reliving the horrors of her past, this dream had been clear and almost gentle. It had not been everything at once but it had been enough to see it was an overall positive picture. Flashes of a future she had yet to process all the details of. But the most pressing was the shocking awareness of her own death in that future. A death, not in the process of achieving her goals, but one in peacetime surrounded by loved ones.

Sitting quietly, Edelgard closed her eyes. She breathed deeply and tried to piece together the thoughts that were clearest.

This had not been their first meeting. That was the first conclusion she drew.

In the literal sense, no today wasn't their first meeting ever, that had been in Remire Village. But as she drew those ideas together, corresponding memories appeared in succession.

The first time they met, it had been at Remire Village, but Miss Potato Eisner had not had nearly the skills she had displayed this time. She was powerful and competent, she had still saved Edelgard from Kostas, but there was something empty about her, and something less seasoned. While she hadn't been wildly expressive this time around, there were still minute details that stood out.

She hadn't listened to the other house leaders give the run downs of their classmates before, nor had she waited till later for Edelgard's. The young Tate had asked her about her class after meeting them, and gave no opinions or direct thoughts on any of it. She had merely nodded and the next day it was confirmed that she was to be their Professor. Edelgard hadn't even known she had any say in the matter of house selection.

She had asked her about it once once. It had been between the Blue Lions and Black Eagles, but Tate had already been swayed to the Eagles by Edelgard's first impression. Meeting the classes had merely cemented her choice.

This time, their Professor had been more slow and deliberate, but her choice was still the same. She had known how Edelgard would describe her class, had probably known just what her Eagles were like too. And she had still chosen them, as she always would.

Edelgard had died, in a far future, to the dismay of her beloved wife. They were finally enjoying the peaceful life they had worked so hard for. Edelgard had put aside the rank and position she had fought to stabilize then pass to worthy hands. They had plans to start a family. There was research in progress that would allow them to have children together, something that would be beneficial to many families in the future.

Then the effects of the experiments done on Edelgard and the stressful life she’d led, had all caught up at once. Methods for removing her crests came too late. It was successful but it was not enough to prolong her life at that point. She was able to enjoy a quiet and comfortable end, surrounded by loved ones, but when the time came it was still bitterly disappointing.

She had long been aware that what was done to her may have shortened her lifespan. She thought she had come to terms with it. There was a lot to accomplish before passing, but after that, she could leave with no regrets. But it seemed that in that future, she had quite a lot more to keep going for and that was when her time ran out.

Edelgard sighed to herself, laying back in bed.

“My teacher, have you come back to find me?”

The tears she caught earlier were ones of joy. The joy of reunion after they were kept away from each other, but this time was so much more intense. Was she flattering herself to imagine her wife had found a way to return to her, perhaps even to help her? She didn't know how it was possible just yet, but she felt sure that was the case.

Some part of Edelgard wondered if she should be angry at that. If she had come back, why here? Why not? She would have loved to save her family too, to protect so many from the tragedies that befell them. But time travel itself was unrealistic, and there were likely limits upon what Tate could do - if it was even possible at all, this was all still an assumption. It was far too soon to jump to such conclusions or feelings about them just now.

It was a lot to process at once and already quite late at night. Edelgard was glad that when she returned to sleep, it was a dreamless one. Perhaps this vision of a potential future was enough hope to quiet her nightmares. Seemingly, she had accomplished all she desired and more.

If she could do it once, she could do it again. Better this time.

In the morning, she awoke refreshed and was able to dress and ready herself for the day quite swiftly. Thankfully she was not receiving more visions all at once. A whole other lifetime was a bit much to take in over a single night.

At first she wondered how further memories would come upon her, if at all. That question was answered sooner than she expected.

“Good morning, Lady Edelgard. You appear to be more in spirits today than last night.”

Hubert greeted her for their morning briefing like clockwork. He wasn't actually much of a morning person, not that it showed. Edelgard had always suspected he was making a concerted effort to wake earlier than he might naturally do so, just to fulfill his duties properly. But given his other proclivities, he could just as easily worked all night again and still be up, rather than rising early. She had a policy of not questioning it at present.

“Hubert.” She looked up to greet him then blinked in surprise.

For a moment, the Hubert she was seeing was visually interposed with another. Still as tall and sharp, but with his hair cut different and his clothes a far cry from the class uniform.

The vision didn't persist after she blinked, but memories started to flit through her mind.

The Hubert in those memories was still meticulous, devoted, the trustworthy second she had kept at her side for years. He was astoundingly good at so many things and her trust in him had never wavered. If she asked him to, or even if she did not, he would willingly be whatever she needed and do whatever it took to rebuild the world she sought. The blade to cut down enemies, the tool to reshape, even the fire to burn everything down and reshape it from ashes before her.

“Lady Edelgard?” He was concerned by her slow response, but didn't yet show how much so. He still had a youthful touch to him here and his features were not so guarded.

Edelgard shook her head.

“I'm alright, Hubert.” She said quickly. “I do feel better after sleeping. I still have a great deal on my mind, in considering our paths and our way forward.”

“Ah.” He responded succinctly, but didn't make it clear if he was reassured of her health or not. “Yes, new variables can certainly give more to consider.”

“They can, yes.” She nodded, standing. “Shall we head to breakfast? We are to be meeting our new Professor today.”

“That would likely be wise. The crowds will be less at this hour and we can be on our way quickly.”

They fell into their usual companionable silence after that. It was convenient for Edelgard to not be expected to speak just now, not when there was so much on her mind.

She had always thought that even if Hubert were offered the chance to leave her side, he wouldn't take it. That wouldn't stop her from offering it, she had too much respect for him not to give him the choice. But it made him remaining in the future unsurprising.

What she found more intriguing to notice was that in the future she saw, Hubert actually seemed happy. Far happier than she thought possible for him to express.

Edelgard saw flashes of his wedding even - one she had apparently participated in, though amazingly not as the officiant. Who he was marrying was still fuzzy to her, but many other details were clear enough to understand.

Standing together in front of a crowd, talking quietly amongst themselves. She was remarking about the crowd, the decor, various trivial things about the day. Hubert in this vision seemed to be trying to pass as disinterested, but she caught him covering very genuine smiles with one hand. The last sight she glimpsed was of his expression when the music started, and presumably his spouse-to-be entered. It was the first that Edelgard, in this life, had ever seen him look at someone with such wonder.

Snapping herself away from those thoughts, Edelgard finished her breakfast and got on with her day. While she wanted to know more about the future she was seeing, the present needed her focus.

The Black Eagles’ classroom was presently deserted. The students would likely assemble soon, eager to meet their homeroom teacher. This gave Edelgard more leeway to steel her nerves in advance of seeing their Professor again.

She hadn't remembered everything yet, and even if she had, that did not necessarily dictate how she responded to those events. She needed to carefully consider everything before showing her hand. While her heart deeply wished to immediately seek out confirmation of a shared “history” between them, that felt unwise just now. She wanted a more sure footing, a little more time to observe before she committed.

How much time she'd truly devote to observation, Edelgard was not sure. Her resolve took a hit from the very moment their Professor arrived.

In hazy memories of this time, Edelgard was sure Tate had worn her usual armor and done absolutely nothing different to her appearance before she came to greet them. In fact, the first she saw her dressed up… Edelgard couldn't recall but was sure it had been much later.

Yet this morning, Tate had brushed her unruly hair, pulling it up into a ponytail. She had put on a black shirt with her armor, and full pants rather than any combination of shorts and leggings. Given it wasn't a perfectly matched set, this was likely pulled together from clothes Tate already owned, but Edelgard felt she was trying to make a real effort to look nice for them.

The other Eagles were surprised to hear Tate was going to be teaching them and they had strong reactions to this. Edelgard couldn't recall what they had said in the other life, but had an unshakable impression that it hadn't been exactly like this. For example, she was sure Petra and Tate had not previously had an eager little greeting in the Brigid language. They were still their own form of rowdy, but their Professor didn’t seem put off or confused by it.

Normally, Edelgard was sure she would have felt embarrassed and want to try to ease the disorganized impression they gave. Today, she was too much in her own thoughts - and she could certainly not bring herself to scold her classmates when their Professor looked at them all, eyes shining and warm the whole time.

“Looks like your first job will be to quiet down this racket. I don't envy you.” Hubert’s remark brought Edelgard’s attention back to the task at hand.

Edelgard shook her head, “I do hope you can manage, Professor.”

Tate shook her head once more. “It is no trouble. I am looking forward to getting to know you all.”

At that point, they heard a loud series of shouts from the other end of the hall, causing a few of the students to jump in place. Immediately, Tate reached out to settle her hands on Bernadetta’s ears, as she had not yet turned back around to even see what was happening and would likely bolt straight into the wall.

“What was that?” Caspar almost dashed to the door.

“Probably just my brother greeting his Deer.” Tate suggested offhandedly, patting Bernadetta’s head and letting her go once more.

“Your brother?” Dorothea glanced over, her brows knitting.

“Blond guy, Manuela’s assistant.” Tate explained.

Edelgard recalled the young man she’d seen in passing the day before. He’d waved at her but not stopped to chat. Yet he had seemed familiar - and now she understood why. In her other life he’d have been her brother-in-law. Yet…he definitely was not blonde in the main memories of him. She’d have to wait a while before asking about that.

“Why are the Deer shouting about that?” Caspar asked, poking his head out.

“If you want to investigate and report back, you may.” Tate shook her head and went to take a seat. “But if you want to be included in the mock battle, I will need to discuss your current skill prowess and give you an assessment.”

That had been enough to get the Eagles back on track.

As the class leader, Edelgard sat nearby and studied as she waited for her turn for assessment. The others would need it more than her, as they hadn’t been in combat besides the Professor the way she was, so of course Edelgard was further back in line. That is at least what she told herself as she failed to actually do any studying, seated and just quietly observing Tate without actually going nearer.

She didn’t know how to judge what to do in this situation, and it wasn’t exactly something she could easily share. So she needed to ponder it on her own, but it really was so much to think about. Between trying to decide how much she believed and processing all of the visions hitting her, she actually lost track of time.

“Edelgard, would you join me for tea? I would like to have your thoughts in advance of the mock battle.” Tate got her attention, standing near the desk and looking at her carefully. She didn’t give away that she thought anything was wrong, if she did at all, but her eyes had an oddly curious glint.

“Of course, Professor.” Edelgard stood with a small smile and followed her away from the main room. Perhaps she had been sitting too long after all. Indeed, her legs felt stiff once she moved them. It almost made her stumble but she righted herself - though Tate also had put a hand on her arm to steady her as well. She’d moved so fast too, it was a wonder she’d had a chance to even see the stumble occur.

At a small table out in the gardens, Tate began to pour them tea. Her skill was actually quite delicate and refined for someone who ostensibly should not have had the training. Edelgard was also able to detect the scent of Bergamot tea as well - one of her favorites.

“What kind of work did it take to find out what kind of tea I like?” Edelgard looked at her pouring the tea carefully. Would she be able to explain such a thing?

Tate did not even pause her careful pouring. “I asked Hubert.”

Edelgard blinked, “And he was willing to tell you?”

“I expressed a proper respect for his Lady and that I was going to ask you to privately discuss strategy. I just asked if he knew what you would like best out of a selection I had on hand.” Tate settled back down after preparing Edelgard’s tea and sitting to sip her own. “It wasn’t as if he could stop you from accompanying me so seeing you able to enjoy the experience is the most practical choice on his end.”

That caused Edelgard to have to cover a soft laugh behind her glove. She picked up the cup of tea and smiled at it before taking a sip.

Tate’s excuse was good, but slightly imperfect. She’d implied asking for Edelgard’s tea preferences. But that would not give her the expertise to mix them exactly as she liked on the first try. Especially since tea mixing was not actually one of Tate’s strong suits. Passing by her eyes, she could see long hours of her professor learning to make tea at all, and then struggling to do it correctly.

There was a particular scene that was a stronger image than the others, sticking out as a proper vision. It was limited - as if Edelgard had only spotted it while passing through the gardens and had not been fully present for it. Tate had been silently standing before several kinds of tea pots and cups, taking notes in a book and practicing. She was receiving a lecture on proper tea preparation and pouring, and while Edelgard couldn’t see who was giving the lecture, she knew the voice. Someone standing and taking notes while Ferdinand von Aegir went off on one of his favorite subjects certainly required a lot of dedication. In both the past and the present, this gave her a somewhat sweet feeling in her heart, a little admiration at that kind of diligence.

“How do you like the Black Eagles so far, Professor?” Edelgard left her reverie to see Tate quietly enjoying her tea. She seemed to have noted Edelgard wasn’t paying attention, so just sat to wait till she was ready to talk.

“Excellent potential.”

“Is that all you have to say?* Edelgard raised her brows, curious but playful. There was definitely more to her thoughts.

“Some are going to find me extremely meddlesome. And some will be invigorated. Either way, there shall be results.”

“And the mock battle, what are your thoughts?”

“I am debating whether it's worth waking Linhardt to heal for such a limited match. We only have so many representatives to choose from.” Tate closed her eyes and leaned on her hand. “I guess it will also highly depend on what the other houses value in this instance.”

“They are not to be underestimated, that is for sure.” Edelgard noted the plate of snacks on their tea table had been moved slightly closer to herself and took one.

“Well it is essentially a fight over two spots between several people. We only have five participants, you and I are required, and I'm not invoking Hubert's ire by leaving him out at this time.”

“That would be best, I do not think he would be pleased being able to assist me when we are serving with a commander he does not yet trust.”

“Does that imply you trust me?” Here, Tate opened her eyes halfway, still leaning on her hand and resembling a lazy feline. She had something of the aura of a predator, relaxed until ready to pursue their prey.

“I have seen you fight, he has not.” Edelgard took another sip of tea after giving a vague answer.

“But my lady would still like me to properly show my command skills.” Tate's mouth turned up just a fraction and her eyes squinted.

“I would appreciate it very much.” Edelgard returned the small smile.

She needed more time to process, more time to observe. But they would certainly have to talk soon. If she had the answers Edelgard needed, it was a golden opportunity she could not pass by.

And she really did long for that possible future, one that seemed much brighter than she had planned for alone.

Chapter 6: Unleashing a Future Claude can't be good for the timeline... can it?

Chapter Text

Getting flicked in the forehead should absolutely not give someone a lingering headache for a few hours OR weird dreams for a couple days after. Not that weird dreams were completely abnormal for Claude but usually they felt different.

He was fine for the mock battle at least and it was good too. While their house's teaching assistant sat out the competition, he was perfectly encouraging of Claude's schemes and helping him prepare for the fight.

“You're sure you can't join us, Teach?” Claude asked him again playfully.

“Manuela's the main professor, she needs the chance to showcase.”

“You could still join with the students.” Claude leaned on him, almost defiantly.

“As a future leader, Claude there's a little something you should learn called diplomacy.” Jorah turned and flicked Claude's braid. “You and Hilda are required to participate. Ignatz was already good enough to give his spot so Leonie can show off for her idol. Lorenz would be miserable if he doesn't get to show off. It's the more diplomatic choice for me to sit out.”

“Well, you'll just have to drag us training after then. I want to see that ax in motion, Teach, no slacking.” Claude winked at him.

Jorah looked down at himself, confirming he was unarmed. “Were you snooping around again or something? I'm not even carrying a weapon.”

It was extremely weird to be able to answer this, when Claude hadn't actually been snooping at all and even he didn't know where he knew that from. He decided in a split second to lean into it instead.

“Can you blame a guy for being curious?”

“Would blame have any effect on you?” Jorah gave a half-smile and ruffled Claude's hair.

“Not in the slightest.” Claude hummed, “You sure we can't do the stomach bug plan?”

“It wouldn't work, half the Blue Lions have stomachs of iron or are too defiant to stop fighting for something so trivial. And I don't think you want to start a battle of poisons with the Black Eagles.” Jorah didn't bat at the concept of interfering with the other houses and just deadpanned his objections to the plan.

“My, isn't this an interesting discussion. May we join you?” Edelgard chimed in - she and Dimitri had just arrived with Tate right behind.

“I don't know which is more concerning, that Claude would stoop to such crooked schemes to gain the advantage or that your objections are mostly based on it not working.”

“If that was really my scheme-”

“-he wouldn't be talking about it in the open.”

Tate and Claude gave the same response at the same time, causing Dimitri to look between them.

“Discouraging him doesn't work, redirecting is far more effective, Dimitri.” Jorah just finished up what he was writing. “Good fight to the lot of you. I'll be in the audience if you need me. Claude, save some schemes for later in the year.”

Jorah flicked Claude's braid one last time and headed off.

“You two and your flicking things.” Claude shook his head. “At least his doesn't hurt. You managed to give me such a bump I couldn't sleep and got wacky dreams after, Professor. We're going to have to watch out for you.”

Both Edelgard and Tate started at that statement. Tate seemed confused but Edelgard glanced between them briefly, her brows knitting a fraction before her face was once again an impervious mask.

Dimitri was seemingly unaware and instead continued the discussion on the upcoming battle, till they were interrupted by Manuela and Hanneman. That was the end of all discussion for the time being.

As it turned out, the Black Eagles crushed them. Claude had seen Tate in the field previously, but seeing her alone was different from seeing her in command. Especially as she and Edelgard had apparently managed to gain an even stronger tacit understanding since he had last seen them fight together.

The only point in the mock battle that was anything from perfect on the Black Eagles side was a small blip in the middle.

Claude had been preparing to ambush from a hiding place on the field when suddenly Tate sharply called out “Ferdinand von Aegir.”

They stopped to look at her and even Claude had to peek out to see what he did. The redhead in question looked quite chastened already.

Tate looked baffled then huffed a swear. “I did it again, didn't I?”

Edelgard gave a helpless smile and returned to what she was doing. Hubert and Dorothea were far less kind, with a dark chuckle and a giggle, respectively.

Tate shook her head, face blank once more but seemingly apologetic. “Ferdinand. I believe there is an ambush ahead of you. Strike towards-”

It was Claude's turn to swear and he had to quickly duck back. The spot she pointed out was where Hilda was, not himself, but still better to remain focused. He was SO glad he listened when Jorah told them not to keep their ambushers all together.

After the battle, the Deer sat together defeated. That had NOT been an impressive showing on their part.

Jorah arrived with the rest of their class and giving Manuela a drink. He gave her a sympathetic smile then directed the other Deer to sit with their class.

“Well that sucked.” Jorah said casually. “You felt it, we saw it, it was brutal.”

“Ouch, not even sugar coating it, Teach?”

“All my sugar was used up plying Lysithea so she wouldn't explode with anger or storm onto the field to commandeer the team.” Jorah shook his head. “Anyway, it's an important learning opportunity. So what did you all notice the other teams had that you didn't?”

“An actual mage on the field?” Lysithea crossed her arms over her chest. He probably really did give her sweets to keep her from really laying into them.

“Someone competent leading our house?” Lorenz would never resist a dig at Claude.

“More muscles?” Raphael was generally trying to help.

“Someone who commands from the front like Captain Jeralt!” Leonie burst out, obviously still focused on her idol and feeling she disappointed him. Probably consoling herself she lost to his daughter.

“Leonie, remember our deal.” Jorah looked at her firmly.

She looked annoyed then took a deep breath and rephrased herself. “Professor Manuela is primarily a healer and commands from behind. We didn't have enough time to benefit from that when our opponents were rushing forward with an overwhelming advantage in strength.”

“Much better.” Jorah smiled. “Good analysis, Leonie. Anyone else? Let's get the comments out of the way now and we can pick them apart.”

“I think I did fine.” Hilda looked at her nails.

“I think our side actually out-lasted the Blue Lions for a little? We felt weaker but we lasted longer.” Ignatz offered after a while.

There was silence for a while and Claude almost wondered why till a tiny voice haltingly said, “I think…we were doomed from the start. I'm sorry…” He'd actually almost forgot Marianne was there.

“Nope. You're absolutely right, Marianne. This was a battle stacked against us that our best chance at was outlasting your opponents and being able to take advantage of the terrain to turn the tides.”

The class stared at him, aghast.

“Got your attention, didn't I?” Jorah raised his brows. “Let's go back over the rest of the comments here.”

“Lysithea, a good observation of lacking on the magic front. We went in with one healer who stayed at the back. The Black Eagles brought both a combat focused mage and someone using both Faith and Reason to be both a combatant and support. They sacrificed the security of a full time healer to increase their frontal damage output. A strategy to be able hit hard and fast with no need to pull back and heal is a valid move. But it isn't the only one.”

“Lorenz, you felt it would go better with a different house leader. Would you have suggested the ambush method used?”

“Why no, of course not, I-”

“Would have lost faster without it.” Jorah observed, cutting him off. “I recall you were one of the first out and Claude was one of the last. If you want to take his position, you will need to knuckle down and earn it.”

Lorenz opened and closed his mouth a few times.

“You did still lead me to a good point just the same.” Jorah looked back at the class, “You don't have any cohesion.”

“Why does the Alliance work at present?” Jorah crossed his arms, looking them over. “You can crack a joke it doesn't, but we're going to act a little more mature than that for five minutes. Why does the Alliance function and it's not just falling apart in comparison to the Kingdom or the Empire. Hilda, explain.”

“What? Me?” She looked up and mouthed for a second then decided it was faster than to make an excuse. “It works because it's on their best interests? If they don't want to go back to serving under the Kingdom or the Empire, they have to work things out and stuff. That's enough, right?”

“Yep, great work, Hilda.” Jorah gestured, “That's what you have to think about here. You have to remain as a unit. If you defer all authority to one person, be it commander or house leader, you gain some level of unity but the authority only lasts so far as you trust that one person and they're around. But in a team, you need to have priorities beyond yourself, because the group remaining is what protects your interests.”

“If the class loses, does it matter how long Claude lasts? I mean, unless he's able to take a whole army by himself, but let's try to not make him compare to my sister like that.” Jorah made a vague gesture. “As a class you need to rely on each other to survive. That includes each other's strengths, skills, tactics. Right now, you can barely tolerate each other most of you. How can you think to compare to the team up of a powerful house leader, their most trusted advisor and people who are willing to support and follow them? Don't make me laugh.”

The Golden Deer looked between each other, unsure of how to feel. It didn't feel good losing or being told just why.

“There, that's enough for the bad feelings. Everybody got it out of your system? Go get cleaned up and grab some food. This is the best time to get this over with, it's only uphill from here. Let's come back to class Monday and start working on improving, got it?”

Jorah dismissed them and made sure to give a small word of encouragement to each of the participants as they left.

Claude watched them go and felt a little strange. Like he was watching a puzzle fitting back together just out of reach.

“So, what deal did you make with Leonie?” Claude asked as he meandered over at last.

“I told her she could participate in the mock battle but she needed to start working on her attitude. I don't care if she wants to impress my dad but I don't want hear her kissing his ass day in and day out.” Jorah rolled his eyes. “I said I'm giving her a chance to improve it on her own or I'm instituting a Captain jar.”

“A what?”

“Like a swear jar. She has to put in money every time she talks about my dad in class, during class missions and activities. We're running it on a case by case basis if it's in personal conversation, because sometimes it's relevant.”

“Ouch! Hitting her where it hurts.” Claude chuckled. Leonie was notoriously a penny pincher.

“I had to! I'm not kidding, I really cannot put up with hearing about him constantly, especially when I have my own complicated relationship with him.” Jorah shook his head. “I'll save it and let her get him a nice gift or something, but I need her to break that habit real quick.”

Claude chuckled. He opened his mouth, ready to say it took her years to break it before, but he paused instead of saying it. Before what exactly? What was he even talking about?

Catching the odd look on Claude's face, Jorah put a hand to his forehead, checking his temperature.

“Well you don't seem to have a fever. Maybe you're dehydrated again - or you've caught your own mysterious ailment. Either way, go clean up, get a meal and some rest.” Jorah always seemed to have an affectionate concern for Claude, though he couldn't completely place it.

“Yeah, guess I better. I have to be ready for if the Eagles went for a preemptive strike on the poison front, right?” Claude gave a grin then slipped away.

That night the dreams were even wilder and clearer too. Like the pieces he'd been getting and processing finally came together with a fierce snap at once that night.

He'd taken it as all weird dreams and ideas inspired by meeting and dealing with a bunch of intriguing new people at once. Yet with this one, something else seemed to clear up a picture different than he assumed.

“Will she be alright?” Sitting on a comfortable sofa, Claude von Riegan, former Duke of the Alliance and current King of Almyra, was addressing his husband.

“I have no idea. There's not a lot of ways this is going to come out easily. If she doesn't succeed, whatever these powers are doing to her is going to just get worse and I don't know if she'll survive. But if she does succeed, it's not going to be painless either. No matter how many times she's experienced it in the short term, going so far back and being the only one who remembers… it seems so isolating. How's she supposed to make anyone believe her? And what if things don't go how she's hoping? It's just…so much.”

“Well it's not like we can stop her.” Claude reached out to tug his husband down to him, and Jorah let himself be pulled. “You still wished you could go with her.”

Jorah looked up at him, eyes deep blue green now, like a sea sure could just fall into with ease. “I shouldn't have offered that so thoughtlessly, especially in front of you.”

“You and I both know you meant it. You'd rather give up everything and go back with her so she's not alone. You can't accept happiness easy, especially if your loved ones can't have it.” Claude smiled, “It's my fault for encouraging you to be as ambitious as me. I want to have it all and so do you. If I felt I could go back and do things even a little better, I'd take it.”

Jorah laughed and kissed Claude's jaw, happy to nuzzle at his beard while they lounged together.

“I wouldn't be as worried about you going back.” He teased.

“Oh? Don't think I'll get in trouble without you?”

“No, as you said, you want to have it all. Your husband is just part of that. You wouldn't let me sit behind while you get into trouble, Khalid.”

“Well, you aren't wrong about that. But I'm pretty sure that's why I'm not bothered about it either.” Turning, Claude kissed his husband once more. “We'll always find each other. You'll find me and make me fall for you all over, and I'd do the same for you. I believe in us.”

The next morning, Claude was disoriented when he woke up. He rubbed his face and was startled at the lack of beard at first. Slowly, as he stood and got his bearings, he realized where he was. And who he was.

The memories of the two timelines had taken a bit to sort out but by now he had a good idea of the situation.

Looking in the mirror, Claude had to huff a soft laugh. His sister-in-law had managed it. She'd turned back the clock. She'd come back to the past like she wanted. And somehow, that flick of the forehead she gave him had done something to merge Claude's memories across time.

The question was then…were they the only ones? Or more importantly - did Jorah remember? Tate had wanted to bring him back most, so logically that should be the case. He was certainly at Garreg Mach early, but that could have been on some kind of notice from his sister. Claude couldn't guarantee when she arrived.

So his best bet was to go find out for himself. He needed to catch up with his husband.

Quickly getting up and dressed, Claude went to acquire breakfast and figure out where he could find Jorah at this hour.

He wasn't sure if it was luck or contrivance by one of the siblings that Jorah was in the same dorm he had favored in his last life. Claude found him sitting in there after breakfast, working on lesson plans with the door open for students to drop in as usual.

He let himself in with a knock on the doorway.

“Hey, can I talk to you for a bit?” Claude didn't wait for an answer before shutting and locking the door. He knew Jorah wouldn't refuse him.

“Sure. Not that you're taking no for an answer.” Jorah gave him a smile and set aside his plans. “Feeling any better?”

“You could say that. I figured out what was wrong at least.” Claude peered down at Jorah, trying to put together how he wanted to handle this. Somehow, he almost felt the simplest may be the best. “I have a question.”

“Oh, what's wrong? What can I do for you?” Jorah gave him his full attention, like there was nothing more important.

“Teach, ...what my name?” Claude looked him in the eye as he asked.

Brows knitting with puzzlement, Jorah seemed actually more concerned. “What? Why do you ask?”

Claude put a hand on Jorah's chin, nudging him to meet his eye. “Rye.” he said firmly, taking a chance that he was right. “What's my name?”

He could see the way the realization was hitting and he knew his guess was right even before the response.

A soft smile flitted across Jorah's features. “Khalid. Or do you want your titles instead?”

Claude snorted, “Calm down, Archbishop, don't get ahead of yourself. I'm just a house leader for now.~” That was as serious as he could be before tackling his husband in a tight hug. “It worked. We made it back.”

“We did. We made it.” Jorah kissed Claude's cheeks and hugged him tight. “Goddess, I didn't realize how much I missed just being able to hug you.”

“You say that but you haven't been able to stop being affectionate with your Deer.” Claude squeezed him. “You care too much about us.”

“I'd say I'm being much harsher.~”

“I don't think giving a 'shut up about my dad’ jar is really that mean in comparison. You supposedly greeted Lorenz by telling him he's pretty and his hair would look nicer in another style. I think that's way more soft than calling him Mr. Sculpted Eyebrows.”

“Whatever you say, Mr. Leaderman.”

Claude laughed, leaning on him and just catching up. “It's been forever since you were this blond. I don't know how I'm going to take watching you have to go through multiple fights to go back to having your fangs.”

He'd really liked Jorah's fangs. About as much as Jorah liked his beard.

“Well…I have good news for you I guess?”

“What kind of-oh.”

Before his eyes, Jorah’s hair had gone from the blonde to the blue-green it had been in later years. His ears pointed, his eyes changed and the smile just after showed the fangs had returned as well. Just the same as when they’d married but without the scars of battles that parted them for several years.

“OH, that is a cute look.” Claude leaned in to rub noses. “You look adorable, though the ponytail needs to come back sooner than later, you hear?~”

“Look who’s talking? You’re still pretty cute yourself. I missed the tiny braid.” Jorah flicked it again for emphasis. “I understand the beard’s still a few years off though.~”

“Can’t help it, it just won’t suit this face yet.” Claude gave him a sly grin.

Taking a deep breath, Jorah flopped his head against Claude's shoulder again.

“Trying to stay calm just being in the past again was so much. I was sure we could manage, but it is such a relief having you remember anything,” Jorah grumbled. “At least I don't have to just try to explain this later.”

“Have you even had to explain it so far? Is your sister not going around flicking people in the head to give them memories?”

“I mean, I did have to tell Seteth. Because I seriously did not know how to stop being green and pointy and like who else am I going to ask?” Jorah gestured emphatically.

Claude snorted, “Yeah that's a tough sell. Unfortunately the most paranoid and rulesy guy is the one you trust the most for help. I assume it went well, given you can change?”

“Yeah. He at least believed I needed to know how to change, then Tate decided we just needed to tell him and Dad everything, because she was going to go and tell Rhea everything.”

“Everything?” No way Claude believed that.

“Well not ALL of it, but important stuff. Better to sort out the matters between them.”

“Yeah, I guess otherwise she's going to be dealing with the same… behavior again.”

Jorah shook his head. “As for the memories, we didn't know this was possible till just now. Me coming back was unexpected enough. Anyway, I'd have thought if she gave anyone their memories back first, it would be Edelgard.”

Claude was about to agree then realized something. “Wait…maybe she has.”

“If she knew how to do that, she'd have told me.” Jorah pointed out.

“If she knew - but remember, she brought you by accident. I got them back with a flick in the head, and when I mentioned it hurting and giving me weird dreams, she seemed confused.”

“Yeah, that's usually not the result of her doing that. And she's pretty gentle with you.”

“Well what I forgot was, when I said that, Tate wasn't the only one surprised. Edelgard gave us both a weird look too.” Claude explained. “It miiiight just be because it was weird she was joking around with me but now I don't think so.”

“She's pretty cautious with new information…” Jorah gave a thoughtful hum. “Anyway, better to tell Tate and let them sort it out.”

“Yeah. We have bigger fish to fry, like heading off that whole 'Seteth gets antsy about you two being close with your students’ thing. He knows about you guys and that might just make him worse on the whole thing since as far as he knows, you're from the future and I'm not.”

Jorah made a grumbly noise. “I have to work on his teacher level assessments this weekend too. Time travel is really inconvenient.”

“Too true.” Claude stood up again with a stretch. “Anyway, I have some trouble to get into while I have the time. I need to get some training in. My mind has come back but I'm still in the old body, and I need to match the physical fitness requirements for the certification exams.”

“Going to summon your precious baby from your Grandfather's place sooner this time?” Jorah snorted.

“Can't say it wouldn't be helpful to have a wyvern rider early, would it?”

“Yeah yeah. You do that, I'll do the responsible things.” Jorah gave him a kiss on the cheek. “I'll see you later, love. Stay out of too much trouble, please.”

“No promises, Teach.~” It had been a while since he'd regularly called his husband that, since Your Grace and Your Holiness were far funnier, but Claude was looking forward to going back to picking on Jorah like when they were young.

Chapter 7: Tate bonds with her class in unique ways

Chapter Text

“Ferdinand v-. Ferdie. May I speak with you a moment?” Tate cut herself off from saying his full name again. She was SO annoyed at herself.

“Of course, Professor!” He strode over with customary bravado, but dropped it quickly in front of her.

No matter how much he tried to show confidence in front of his classmates, he was actually quite embarrassed to be called over and eager to improve whatever he'd done wrong. He was full of energy and enthusiasm that had gotten overwhelming for her in the past, but his willingness to try to learn from her critiques had been very helpful.

“Have I done something wrong? My performance in the mock battle, maybe?” Ferdinand started up sheepishly.

Tate shook her head.

“I owe you an apology.”

“You do? For what, may I ask?” He seemed utterly confused.

“I startled you by using your full name on the field. Your classmates were laughing, more at my mistake than at you, but I understand if that is upsetting just the same.”

He barked a warm laugh, “Think nothing of it, Professor. I am just glad you were not displeased with my performance.” That got a shy smile as he rubbed the back of his neck.

“No, you follow orders well and you are open to learning more under proper direction.” Tate assured him. “However, I must establish why I accidentally addressed you that way, so we can work out a better path in future.”

“Oh? Certainly, I am all ears.” Ferdinand gave a bright smile and a wide gesture with his arm to indicate he was open to listen. “Admittedly, it does sound like when my father or tutors want to scold me when you do that - but nevermind! What causes it? I will try to think of a solution.”

Tate tried not to twitch at hearing about Ferdinand's father. Ludwig von Aegir was a pathetic little man, and picking on his son's faults to feel bigger was very like him.

“When you approach opponents in the field, you give your full name, it seems a consistent habit of yours.”

He blinked and began to blush.

“I do have that habit, yes. I understood it was proper…”

“I'm not sure that is the case but as long as you do not do so at inappropriate times, it doesn't hurt anything.” Tate waved it off. “It is just, if I repeatedly hear your full name, when I go to speak it after, I automatically start to say all of it, because it sounds incomplete otherwise.” She felt sheepish about this as well.

Ferdinand stared then his eyes lit up. “Oh! Is that what it is?” He gave a warm laugh. “As long as you are not angry with me, I do not mind.”

“Thank you for understanding. I do not want to tell you to speak like that less if you have reason to, but I don't really want to make you feel chastised every time I want your attention and slip up.”

“Thank you, Professor. That means a great deal to me!” His smile did not falter but held his chin, thinking hard. “I will try to be more cautious with giving my name so very frequently, if it affects you so. But in the meantime, being sure you are not angry when you call me that way is helpful enough.”

“I do not traditionally express anger like that.” Tate assured him. “In combat if I am angry, I will speak more fiercely or give sharper instructions or I will strike someone if I must. This is because of limited time and situation. Otherwise, I do not need to express displeasure in such ways. I will just talk to you. I do not need to assert my authority by drawing attention to your mistakes.”

There was something in how he smiled at that which once more made her want to head out immediately to handle his father.

--Be cautious of how you alter the timeline, little one.--

I know. I can't lose my position by committing murder, no matter how many students’ father's deserve it.

--Your position?! Your position isn't the half of- oh. You dare to joke with me? Hmph.--

“I will take what you said to heart, Professor… and thank you for apologizing to me. I do not receive them often.”

“Of course. You are free to return to your business. You did well today.” Tate gave him an awkward shoulder pat and let him leave.

She intended to leave herself soon after but was surprised to spot Edelgard in a nearby alcove, a strange distant look on her face.

“Are you alright?” Tate asked her cautiously.

Edelgard blinked, “Yes, just lost in thought. I wished to speak to you after the mock battle but didn't want to interrupt your discussion.”

“I wanted to clarify that with him before I forgot. I was complacent thinking I would not make such a mistake but as you heard…”

Edelgard gave a knowing nod. “Hearing it repeatedly makes it easier to repeat yourself. He will grow out of it eventually, I'm sure.”

“Yes, but even if not, it is better for our rapport that I address it now than later. He need not have any concerns about my approval, it will only hold him back in bad habits.”

With a thoughtful expression, Edelgard nodded but said no more on the subject. Strangely, though, she didn't begin speaking on anything else either.

Tate stood before her, waiting patiently for whatever it was Edelgard had been waiting to talk to her about.

Blinking, Edelgard suddenly seemed to realize she wasn't speaking.

“I apologize, my teacher. I have a lot on my mind. I have forgotten what I wished to speak about.”

Puzzled, Tate reached out to take her hand a moment.

“If you have anything troubling you, you may speak to me at any time without fear of judgement.” Tate did her best to sound reassuring, but she had never been that good with tones and this body was not quite up to the task.

Edelgard seemed startled and something that seemed familiarly fond crossed her face momentarily.

“I will keep that in mind. I have things I must attend to, but when I recall what I wished to discuss, I will come find you.”

Tate waited as Edelgard slipped away and she went about her own business. If this strange state kept up, she would ask Hubert about it. He would probably not answer, but having him vigilant for Edelgard's health and safety would ease Tate's mind.

For now, she had her own room to arrange and tasks to get up to around the monastery. Jumping to conclusions would do her no good.

After the mock battle, Tate had made plans to meet with Petra. Petra had kindly sat out the battle to give Dorothea more room to practice in combat, and Tate had promised to give her a private spar later in exchange. They had also agreed to go fishing after, just for a chance to socialize and practice their language skills.

They had both always regretted that with the volatile situation during the war, Petra had had to neglect her more careful language studies in favor of what would be most beneficial in the short term combat and scouting situations. It had taken her time after the war to actually focus on learning the Fodlan language more precisely. It made Tate furious whenever people made fun of Petra at major gatherings for her accent and way of speaking.

Tate always wanted to get Petra to rest herself and not push too hard constantly training when she was at Garreg Mach, but she hadn't known how to properly do so without seemingly like she was insulting Petra's stamina or dedication. Now, she had a better idea of how to handle it.

If she wanted Petra to rest, she had to give her more structure and redirection when it was needed, and not fear insulting her when she needed to actually be firm. So breaks to do a lighter activity and study another subject was good.

At the training grounds they found Felix, who was working off excess frustration from the Blue Lions losing and his own lack of participation.

“Felix. We're practicing swordwork. Join us.” Tate called over, not worried about whether he'd object. Swords were the magic word with him.

“Good, I was wondering how long I'd have to wait to test your skills.” Felix stopped what he was doing and strode over.

“Petra, this is Felix. Felix, Petra. She's learning swords and bows. If you meet in the training grounds, you will be excellent sparring partners.” Tate plainly laid out the introductions for them. Neither needed a lot to get going.

“I will be looking forward to learning from you.” Petra gave Felix a polite greeting then drew her sword.

“I couldn't agree more.” Felix drew his in turn.

Tate pulled her own as well and stepped back, letting both of them come at her to start.

They alternated between trying to go after Tate or sparring together with Tate's instruction. She let them go until her chosen stopping point of the next meal.

“Enough. Petra, we need to clean up. We have other tasks scheduled. Felix, you may join us for dinner or continue as you are. Be sure to rest your muscles and drink water before pressing on if you continue.”

“Sure. I should eat before further training.” Felix set aside his weapon. “I won't be forgetting our planned solo spar just because of today.” He sounded like he was warning her, but Tate didn't actually mind.

“I recall. I already promised you.” She agreed then went to wash up. She had been in the mock battle and sparred for a while so needed to feel better before she went to eat.

The three arrived to a lively dining hall and Felix joined them to eat. He was eager to keep chatting with Petra about some of her techniques and she seemed just as happy to ask him for more information on his skills.

“Wow, making friends already? And with girls none the less. Good for you, Felix.” Sylvain came over to lean on the table and grin at them.

“We're talking about training, go away.” Felix gave Sylvain a side-eyed stare immediately on his arrival.

“Aw, don't be like that. You can at least introduce me.” Sylvain gave a helpless smile.

“We met. I like girls. She's busy. Shoo.” Tate repeated blandly.

“Jeez, I don't know what I did that you dislike me so much.” Sylvain really looked baffled.

Tate felt bad, she was being very guarded with him. He wasn't exactly a bad person or even always bad, she just didn't enjoy his company most of the time.

“You're competition.” She offered after a while, trying to manage a smile to indicate she was joking but not necessarily succeeding.

“Go away, you're interrupting. They have plans after dinner and I'm not finished finding out about Brigid sword techniques.” Felix seemed to really want to get back to his conversation and that explained why.

With a chuckle, Sylvain put up his hands to surrender. “Alright, I'll let you get back to it. You and me had better work out about this competition thing some other time though.~” He gave Tate a wink as he backed off, seemingly understanding she was kidding on some level.

Tate returned to her food after that, intently listening to Petra and Felix exchanging information. It was nice to see him enthusiastic about something, and Petra getting to talk to someone without judgment - Felix genuinely didn't seem to care how she spoke as long as he understood her meaning. Tate only had to interject occasionally to clarify turns of phrase.

They bid him goodbye after the meal and Tate led Petra out to sit on the dock with her. They could fish at a slow pace and talk in the meantime. Petra had a notebook on hand with things they practiced or techniques to use in future.

At some point, Linhardt joined them on the dock. He seemed to be pondering if it was a good nap spot when Tate shifted over and motioned him to come sit.

“We're catching fish and practicing vocabulary.” Tate wasn't visibly enthusiastic but she was happy to see him and invite his company.

“So I see. Provided I'm not expected to contribute much, I'd be happy to.” Linhardt gave a yawn.

“Just your company.” Tate motioned again. “You may lean on me to rest.”

He seemed pleasantly surprised at the encouragement and came over to sit with them. He would even hold a fishing pole when passed it. Didn't stop him from immediately taking up the offer to lean on Tate, but he seemed to at least go through the motions of joining them to fish.

“Will our practice not disturb him?” Petra asked, mostly curious.

“It is good practice for him to sleep through other things.” Tate made her joke then returned to walking Petra through a short song to remember the tenses of To Be in the Fodlan tongue.

Contrary to his usual behavior, Linhardt did actually join in with suggestions or commentary more regularly than he might otherwise. He was even good enough to follow along with Tate's little songs or pneumonics to remember certain phrases or tenses. This was a big help as Tate could not always reflect as much nuance verbally as she would like.

Eventually, they wrapped up for the evening and Tate lifted the sleeping Linhardt effortlessly. Petra handled putting away their fishing gear and Tate escorted them back to their rooms.

“Thank you for your time, Professor. I am being in- I am in your debt.”

“No debt. It is my duty to teach. Rest well, Petra.” Tate bid her goodbye then entered Linhardt's room and set him on the bed.

“Should I be concerned you can open the lock on my door so easily?” Linhardt gave a playful answer as he settled.

“Not if you want me to continue bringing you back.” Tate adjusted his blankets and pillows familiarly.

“I suppose I can accept that.” Linhardt stifled a yawn then rolled over to go back to sleep. “Goodnight, Professor.”

In the moonlight, Tate meandered back to her own room. She was almost surprised to see someone already waiting in it for her - almost but not quite, given the guest in question.

“Hello Hubert.” Tate walked in and set down her bag, taking a seat after with ease.

“Good evening, Professor.” He stepped out of the shadows by her bookshelf “I see you've been adjusting to the quirks of our class quite well. Perhaps too well, even. How curious.”

“Consider me deeply surprised at your assertions.” She looked at him flatly and held her hand beneath her head, to more fully present her sarcasm with a visual cue to make up for her tone. He taught her that at some point.

“And such a sense of humor. It makes your position in my eyes far more precarious, unfortunately for you.” Hubert spoke more seriously. “You met with the Archbishop for a long time on your first day at the Monastery. You proceeded to meet with each house, each House Leader, and finally Lady Edelgard. I wonder what you needed to speak with the Archbishop about for so long, or what your intent was with your choice of visits.”

“Personal business, then an assignment to meet the students and house leaders and choose which to teach. Tell me your actual concerns, please. I don't follow implications well all the time.”

Hubert narrowed his visible eye and stepped nearer.

“When you spoke to Lady Edelgard, you seemingly started crying in the middle. Since that contact, she has been frequently lost in thought and distracted. You will tell me-”

“Oh!! Good, you noticed already, I’m not worried for nothing.” Tate felt relieved, shaking her head. “I don't know what it is either. I had thought she was merely busy at first, but today she was distracted enough to forget what she wanted to discuss. If it persisted past today, I was going to ask you to look into it. I am concerned for her well-being.”

Hubert's face went through a myriad of expressions at her interruption. First anger, then confusion, distress, several others before returning to suspicion.

“And where do you get the authority to ask me to do anything?”

“I am your Professor and it is my job to pay attention to my students’ well-being. You are Lady Edelgard's devoted servant. Who am I to entrust concerns for her safety and health to if not you?” Tate gave him a look, speaking with a confident authority she could never fully shake from her bones.

Hubert actually shivered but covered any worry or shock up very quickly.

“How am I to know what is happening to her isn't your doing? You aren't particularly trustworthy, if I must observe such.”

“If it is, it is not by intentional means. I truly do not know what is happening to her. If we find it is such, I will do everything in my power to fix it.”

“And just what is in your power?” Hubert scoffed.

“Far more than you would ever believe.” Tate observed, then stood once more. She stepped forward, looking at him with certainty. “You would not believe me if I were to tell you that I love Edelgard. That I would move the world for her safety and happiness. That there is someone in this world whose devotion to her rivals your own. You would not believe such things and I do not care to waste my energy trying to change your mind on that.”

“Observe as you like. I am not afraid of you, Hubert von Vestra. I fear many things in the world, but fearing you is impossible for me.” Tate kept her gaze firmly fixed on his.

He met her gaze and held it the whole time, finally breaking it after speaking.

“So we are at an impasse. Time will tell how things turn out between us, Professor.”

“It will. I have a promise to keep to a dear friend, so best be prepared for your lessons in the upcoming week.” She almost smiled this time. “I need to break you out of your comfort zone so you can truly excel.”

Hubert gave a dark chuckle and swept out of her room.

Tate shook her head and sat down. She really was worried about her wife. Hopefully it wasn't something she had done, or if so, hopefully they figured it out soon and could stop it.

Chapter 8: Jorah talks to his dragon family

Chapter Text

“Manuela is going to be annoyed with me if I out-pace her in teaching level but I can't help it. I like my funds for class business.” Jorah stretched and spoke idly to Seteth as he handed over his final exam.

“She has other duties to concern herself with, as it were.” Seteth took the test from him to mark.

Jorah waited at the desk for him to judge the papers.

“If my skill level is as high as I said, will you consider letting Flayn take classes?” It was only half a joke. He knew how eager she was to learn. “I promise I will be a mostly wholesome professor.~”

“Mostly?” Seteth shot him a look.

“I might have to teach her a few dangerous things like how to lie better, for her own safety of course.” Jorah returned the look with a shrug.

“In what sense does she need to be taught that for safety?!” Seteth's expression turned more stern.

Jorah bounced his brows then stood up, walking to the door and calling out.

“Flayn, can you come help me with something for a second?”

Quickly, she came pattering down the hallway, bright smile and eager expression.

“Yes, what can I do for you, Professor?”

“Just a question, really fast. Settling something. How old are you?”

Seteth looked horrified but didn't speak, especially after Jorah gave him a wink.

Flayn pondered for a time then spoke up, “I am… approximately the same age as the other youths here. Is that all you wished to know?”

“Yep, that's perfect. Thanks, Flayn. I owe you a fish.” He pat her head and let her scamper off.

Seteth's head was in his hands as Jorah returned to the desk.

“You see what I mean? There's people far cleverer and far more sinister than me roving around and answers like that are-”

“You have made your point.” Seteth cut him off and returned to grading. “I am still hesitant about Flayn joining any classes but I will grant you that a better understanding of cultural norms and… necessary subterfuge, would be good for her.”

Jorah looked out the window and leaned casually on the desk.

“When I was at Garreg Mach originally, I used to have a study group of sorts with my students. Any of them who couldn't sleep regularly or just needed a lot of company, we'd all gather together and just do busywork or talk. We'd hang out late into the night then I'd walk or carry the stragglers back to their rooms.”

Seteth paused and glanced up but didn't interrupt.

“Flayn was part of the group, one of the last I'd carry off to bed, usually piggyback because I had to carry Lysithea too.” His eyes softened. “You would come in during your rounds to check who was present then let us be. She'd usually be dozing off by then, but she seemed to sleep better surrounded by students.” He met Seteth's eye now, “She told me that having her classmates around and talking made it easier. So she wouldn't get nightmares about waking up centuries late. That she wasn't alone.”

Seteth's grip on his pen was tight and he was clearly struggling through his emotions at that.

Looking back at the papers again, he took several moments to compose himself before speaking.

“Thank you for telling me. I had no idea she…”

“You're her father, you're already working so hard to protect her. How can she bear to worry you over something she sees as small? She's trying to be strong.”

“Still, I wish I knew sooner. I wish I could do more for her.”

“You're dealing with a growing and independent young woman. She's got things she will want that she will fight with you over or struggle about, and she's got things she doesn't want to burden you with. It's because she loves you.” Jorah gave a lopsided smile. “Anyway, you don't have to do it alone. You and Flayn have been family to us, to me especially, for a long time. I'll do whatever I can to support you and support her.”

“Are you being sappy again, Teach?”

Jorah looked up.

“Claude, since when am I ever not sappy?”

“You're right, you nearly cried at your own wedding.” Claude gave a dramatic wave of his hand.

“As I recall, that was because I was laughing too hard at a prank your classmates pulled on you.” Jorah shook his head.

“Do you mind telling me just what you two are talking about?” Seteth cut in once more.

Jorah gave a sheepish smile and blushed. Claude gave him a Look.

“Teach, really? I thought you were going to say something after your test.”

“I haven't got there yet, obviously. I was distracted suggesting we get Flayn back in class.” Jorah rolled his eyes at him.

Claude shook his head. “Then I'm going back in the hall. You're better at these situations than I am.”

Jorah shook his head, heaving a deep sigh.

Seteth folded his hands together and looked at Jorah, silently waiting for the explanation.

“Fun discovery I had this morning. Somehow, my sister managed to restore memories of our former timeline to… well potentially two house leaders but for sure one.” Jorah gestured.

“And these restored memories included your wedding? To him, I presume, seeing as his classmates were pranking him at it.”

“Yeah, that's about it.” Jorah agreed. “I didn't even know she could do that but Claude was able to confirm for me he's got his. No idea what to do about that but it's nice for me, I guess.”

“Nice as it is, it is still quite hard to believe.” Seteth returned to looking over the test yet again. “I hope the pair of you understand that while you are student and teacher here, your conduct must still be appropriate. Whether or not you were married in a past life, you are not yet in this one.”

“We’ll behave ourselves, act like the goddess is watching, I know.” Jorah waved. “We managed it last life, we can again. Honestly, you were harsher in that life. We had a few weeks we couldn't even be affectionate with each other till you relented it was depressing us both too much.”

Seteth was the one to snort this time. “Perhaps I am feeling more lenient due to your exemplary test answers so far. Or the genuine concern for Flayn.” He looked at his folded hands for a time then waved Jorah off. “Go, he's waiting for you and I need time to read the long form answers. As to your other request… I need time to consider.”

Jorah got up and headed out.

In the hall, he found Claude standing by the door, looking stiff as a statue. Immediately, Jorah was concerned and stepped forward, putting a hand on his back.

“Everything alright?”

The question was out of his mouth before he spotted the source of the disturbance. Lady Rhea had come down and was waiting, placid smile on her face and eyes closed as if deep in thought.

“Oh, I see.” Jorah continued, since his question was now answered. “Archbishop, good day. Were you looking for Seteth?”

Her eyes opened, looking at the pair of them, gaze deep yet expression unclear. “No, in fact I was looking for you. Is this a good time?”

Jorah glanced to Claude then back at her. “That highly depends, what can I do for you?”

Lady Rhea looked at her sleeves then returned her gaze to his.

“I have had a lot on my mind, since our discussion. I thought it might be worthwhile to talk with you more.”

Claude and Jorah exchanged another look.

“I can grab you for a meal another time, Teach. I'll go let your sister in about that thing from this morning. You should catch up with Lady Rhea while she's got the time.”

“Yeah. Sounds good, thanks Claude.” Jorah bumped shoulders with him then strode forward. “I have time now if you want to discuss. Would you prefer to go for tea or a walk in the gardens?”

“Let us go through the gardens. I would like to hear your thoughts on some of the plants.”

They walked in silence for a time. Jorah even opened the door to her private gardens expertly - though he rather thought she expected him to. He was the one who claimed he'd succeeded her.

In the gardens, their walk remained silent until Rhea finally broke it. She spoke up, looking all across the plants growing there.

“You seemed to have been seething with frustration about how I run the Church.” Rhea folded her hands together before her. “That you kept many of my ideas while revising but threw a lot out you found 'stupid’.”

“Yes. I care passionately about people. It's my nature. I won't apologize for it, though I will admit I was rude.”

“I feel the same way when I hear others disparaging the Central Church and the Goddess.” Rhea frowned. “I cannot tell if I see you as a threat…or as a reflection of myself.”

Jorah snorted, “Honestly, I'm surprised if you see me at all. Do people exist to you outside of tools or pawns? Vessels for your use or for the restoration of your mother.”

Rhea glanced sideways at him.

“I have faced a great deal in my life. I make the decisions I feel are best. Despite what you think, I do care for others.”

“Perhaps, distantly so. But if you were to face a choice between your personal goal and the lives of everyday humans, I don't think you would hesitate to sacrifice every last one of them to suit your ends.” Jorah spat the final words with disgust. “I've seen how your doctrine leads to people being treated, and to what genuinely good people will be complicit in for you.”

Rhea strode forward to take a seat on a bench in the garden.

“Perhaps.” She responded at last. “I cannot say truly. What my mind says logically may not match the truth of my heart in a given situation.”

“You've been trapped in the horrors of the past for a long time. It has warped your perspective.”

“Do you fear the same will happen to you?” Rhea looked over at Jorah. “You are living again, a life surrounded by memories others cannot understand and relate to. Can you free yourself of your own fears?”

Jorah squeezed his fists at his side.

She was right, in some ways. His anger at her was for many things, some she hadn't even done yet. It didn't undo her wrongs but he couldn't necessarily justify himself either.

“All I can do is to keep trying. To hold onto my humanity and my morals, to listen to those around me. I want a better future than the one I lived through.”

Rhea watched him, slow and steady then turned to look at her gardens again.

“When your father was still my knight, when your mother was still alive, we only knew they were expecting one child. When we learned there would be two, they were excited, as was I. For the first time in so many years, my family, my kind would be extended naturally.”

“Your parents wanted to name their first born in my honor. You were quiet when you were born, weak and struggling, but I could feel the power of my blood in you. The nature granted to your mother, and the blood granted to your father, they had a child who was human and yet not.”

“I remember singing to you, trying to use my power to awaken yours, to let you live healthy. I had forgotten that.” Rhea looked at her lap. “Nothing else mattered when your sister was dying. When the crest Stone seemed to bond with her as a vessel the way it hadn't with any previous attempt. Nothing new mattered in the face of my mother potentially returning to me, if only for a while.”

“I don't remember that, but my dad does. He wrote about it.” Jorah sat beside her now, feeling tired at the weight of it all. “I… I never knew my mom. And my dad and I didn't get along. Even when teaching here, I didn't get closer to him, we barely understood each other. I resented him for giving me a name as an afterthought. Even when I learned later what it was meant to be, that 'Rye’ was short for 'Ryea’, I didn't feel any better. By then, you were someone I hated. A person who piled expectations and attention upon my sister, against her will.”

“I had a screaming match with you one night. After she had bonded with Sothis, you were so happy, thinking your mother was back. She had gone through a terrifying situation and come out different, with someone dear to get sacrificed for her safety. She woke up in a strange place with a person she wasn't close to cradling her and singing. She screamed and I came to protect her.”

“So quick to think it was a threat?”

“A month before…my father was killed by our enemies. She couldn't save him, even with the power of the goddess. I wasn't even nearby, and his final words were to her.” Jorah squeezed his fists again. “I watched that bastard banish my sister to another plane and I was afraid I had lost my only remaining family. When she came back, safe but changed, I was frightened. Waking up in the night to her mysteriously gone again and then screaming… what else could I see it as but a threat?”

Rhea was quiet again, breathing slowly and seeming to take everything in.

“To see your loved ones mistreated, especially when you recently lost a parent… that I understand.”

“You probably feel sick every time you see a Hero's Relic.” Jorah shivered. He had found them so disgusting when he learned later.

Rhea gave a smile that didn't reach her eyes. “I have enured myself to it over time. I could not take away the crests already given, the weapons already made, the powers already seemingly so great. I could only control the narrative, and steel myself to what I must survive.”

Jorah looked over the plants in the garden and stood up, walking forward to kneel before a few.

“May I harvest some of these? I have something I'd like to make.”

“Do as you please.” Rhea gestured. “I am curious about what you learned. About what kind of successor you became.”

He started to carefully harvest the plants he needed, separating them out with tools he knew where to fetch.

“There are events coming - ones we may not be able to prevent - that could serve as a turning point. For the Church itself and for some of the past.” Jorah spoke as he worked, considering ideas.

“I am willing to listen.” Rhea watched him, her gaze both distant from him and yet weighty at the same time.

“If you had a chance to dissuade nobles from the use of the Heroes Relics, if you had ways to convince others to truly lay them to rest… would you take it?” Jorah looked back at her.

“...in a heartbeat.” Her voice was a raspy hiss, and he knew the desperation, pain and anger which drove it.

“You would have to trust us. But I promise you, there is a chance coming in the near future, where you can turn the tide of opinion on the relics, crests, on many things. A chance to let your loved ones finally know peace.”

Rhea held her hands together, an image of prayer that would be divine and pristine were it not for the trembling of her anger still lingering below the surface.

He left her to her thoughts and went to the connected workroom with the plants. He began concocting according to the recipe he had learned and then fine-tuned from Rhea's old notes. He had spent many years perfecting this, later aided by much more experienced scholars and healers. But he knew the sooner he could put it together, the sooner someone dear to him could feel relief.

He worked on his own, focused wholly on that, and forgot about anyone else being around. But then, he'd often worked that way.

“I recognize this potion. It looks like you've adapted it.” Lady Rhea stepped up beside him, seemingly recovered, and looking over his notes.

“I first found this place and your notes when desperately seeking a way to help someone I care about. I knew you had things you kept privately to give to students sometimes at the start of term in limited quantities.” Jorah was startled but returned quickly to his work. “It helped him a lot, and I am shameless enough that I'd rather get it for him now than when he gets worse.”

Rhea watched him, seemingly considering something.

“I still have much to discuss with you. I am not sure of my feelings on either of you or your plans, and I am anxious about your intentions in the future.”

“That's to be expected.” Jorah agreed.

“My heart tells me I should give you the chance to prove to me that you are worthy of the position you laid claim to in the future.” Rhea reached out and brushed a section of Jorah's hair away from his ear. “I should have a successor prepared. If my mother can truly be given a new life, I will no longer be able to continue this position. And you deserve at least a ready excuse for why you have already been marked to appear this way.”

He was surprised to say the least and looked at her, wide eyed.

“What?”

Rhea gave a weak smile, gaze drifting away, giving an impression she was feeling awkward.

“I am asking for you to become my apprentice.” She returned her eyes to his.

“I believe it will be for the best. Should others question your presence, you need merely say your status as my successor was kept private for the safety of you and your family. It may also serve as a shield from any questions to your father's actions and behavior from years ago.”

Jorah had to set aside the potion to catch his breath.

“I…will need to talk it over with my family.” He managed at last.

“Do as you need to. I understand. This is a lot of change for both of us.” Rhea held out her hand to him. “I will try my best to do better, no matter what you decide.”

“That's all I can ask…” Jorah grasped her hand, feeling an ache in his heart.

He had always longed for acceptance. It was easy to forget at times, but it was always there.

It took everything in him to not immediately say yes to an offer that hit such a weakness of his.

Chapter 9: Hey remember when Jeralt got a chapter?

Chapter Text

Jeralt felt like he'd been stuck in a tornado for the past week or so. Ever since the day his daughter had woken and immediately hugged him, as if overwhelmed with emotion, everything had changed. They had been found by students of the Officer's Academy that day and he'd been dragged back to the Knights of Seiros.

According to his children, they had come back from the future. What was he supposed to do with that information?

No matter what they said, he was leery about them suddenly being exposed to these strangers or interacting with Lady Rhea. Still, they were young adults and he couldn't really stop them. So Jeralt was resigned to just working here and taking care of them in his own way.

Tate had made a habit of coming to see him on breaks in classes, and today she brought him breakfast on her day off. She didn't outwardly look that different but she seemed happy and like she was making a deliberate effort to come spend time with him. Moreso than she ever had in the past - Jeralt always used to wonder if she only stuck with him out of obligation. Now it didn't seem to be so.

“Do you have plans today? You're the big winner of this mock battle.” Jeralt asked her quietly over breakfast.

“Teaching assessments with Seteth, then supply runs. My class has a big mission this month. I must make sur e they have everything.” Tate was eating her breakfast and sitting by Jeralt at his desk, and while she sat properly, sometimes she'd rock side to side in an almost bouncy motion.

“That excited for supplies? Are you looking forward to the mission?”

Tate blinked and looked back at him. “No?”

“You're moving around in your seat like you're bouncy.” Jeralt pointed out. Should he even mention it.

“Oh. No.” Tate shook her head. “I'm enjoying your company. I like spending time with you.”

Jeralt was certainly surprised. He shook his head, awkward smile only partly hidden.

“Ok then, good to know. I like spending time with you too.” He felt helpless to understand how to respond to his child's affection after so long.

“Want to go fishing with me tomorrow? You haven't in a while.” Tate tugged his sleeve, looking at him with wide eyes full of expectation.

“Sure, if nothing comes up. You're right, I haven't had much chance between jobs over the years to relax.”

“Oh, Professor, you're here too?” At that moment, the door was knocked on by Leonie. She'd come to catch up with him proper, and probably talk about the recent battle, he was sure.

Tate stared at her, expression unreadable, then brushed off her gloves and stood.

“I should go take my test. I'll see you later.” She turned and hugged Jeralt briefly before striding away.

Leonie looked at her go but shrugged, instead taking the seat Tate had vacated and starting to chat. She looked down at the remainder of Tate's breakfast.

“Did she mean to leave that?” Leonue pointed to what amounted to an untouched couple of buttered rolls and half a bowl of porridge.

Jeralt huffed a small laugh.

“You can have it.”

“Thanks!” Leonie dug in. “I can't stand wasting good food anyway so might as well!”

Jeralt shook his head.

What he hadn't said was that she intended for Leonie to have the rest. While her exit was swift, he knew his daughter would have dealt with the rest of her meal even on short notice. He taught her not to waste food, to put it away for later or give it to him. She wouldn't have left behind food she intended to finish, he'd even seen her stuff her pockets with the butt end of a roll just because she didn't want to leave it.

So if she left it out and in place, it was probably for Leonie to finish. Jeralt wasn't in a rush so took his time eating the - admittedly very high quality - breakfast she brought. Tate had been eating slower too, keeping him company.

Leonie showing up may have reminded her of her duties, and he suspected Tate was bothered by her. But if she'd wanted to be vindictive, she would have taken the rest of her food and left Leonie to watch him eat his without any. It could have just been to save him feeling awkward about it, but he took it as a tacit approval of his former apprentice keeping him company in her stead.

Still, they were grown young women and could sort that out themselves. He'd step in if he had to, but he felt like Tate may be able to handle Leonie.

They chatted over breakfast and he let her keep hanging around while he rearranged the office. A lot of their interactions went down as Leonie talking a mile a minute and him usually grunting a response or interjecting when he actually had more than a word or two of comment. It didn't seem to bug Leonie so he didn't sorry about it.

There were knights in and out all day but no one came to his office besides her.

Somewhere in the early afternoon, however, Jeralt got an unexpected guest.

Jorah meandered into the office, looking distracted and puzzled. Jeralt actually didn't notice him at first till Leonie greeted him.

“Oh, hey J.” She waved over at him with a grin. “I'm on personal time so you can't get me for this one.”

“Don't worry, Lee, I'm not here to ding you for that.” Jorah walked over, reaching out to give Leonie a playful shove.

“Interesting way of address. Are you two getting familiar fast?” Jeralt asked mildly. It was good seeing his children making friends, and he didn't mind if it was with his apprentice of sorts.

“Tate’s 'Professor’ to everyone, and Manuela is their class's real Professor anyway. So I said I'm not fussed about what they call me, just confirm it with me first so I know.” Jorah waved it off and began looking in his bag.

“What's this about him 'getting’ you for something, Leonie?” Jeralt looked at her with raised brows.

Leonie hesitated, which was odd for her. Being cagey, with him anyway, wasn't necessarily her nature. It was one of the reasons he didn't ever mention his kids to her.

“She and I have some stuff worked out for her in class, Dad. It was a joke.” Jorah waved it off and Leonie seemed relieved. “Lee, how long have you two been in here and did he eat anything in that time?”

“It's been a few hours. He was having breakfast when I showed up but we've been rearranging the office for a while.” Leonie rubbed the back of her neck.

“Can you do me a favor then? There's a pub out in the monastery town. I'll give you the money, just go grab you and my dad each a solid meal and something to drink. I'll throw in extra for you doing the errand.”

Leonie hopped up. “Sure, I'll take paid work!”

“It's a bit far but you can borrow a horse from the stables, it's good practice. I'll give you a pass to hand to the stablehand, just return it when you're back.”

He expertly counted out two bags of coin in a flash, one for the purchase and one for Leonie herself. He used Jeralt's desk to write up the note as well and passed it to her.

Once Leonie headed out, Jeralt gave a low chuckle.

“You kids trying to spoil me today? Your sister got me breakfast this morning too.” He took a seat at his desk. “So what do you want to talk about?”

“You're sure I want to talk and don't just want to be sure you eat well?” Jorah joked.

“You could have just sent her to the dining hall if it was just about food. You spent money and even added extra steps to make sure she had to go out and take a while at it.”

Jorah held his hands wide in a mild admission of defeat then sat on the edge of Jeralt's desk.

“I don't like I need to arrange a whole errand to get time with my dad for a talk, but I'd rather that than be antagonistic with her. She's already being pretty understanding of me saying 'shut up about my dad in class or I'm making a swear jar about it's.”

Jeralt chuckled. “So that's what it is. Talking your ear off about me then?”

“Eh, it's a bigger issue than that but we're working on it in stages. She's a good friend, I'm giving her leeway to improve.” Jorah shook his head. “It's good for her to grow into her own instead of just clinging to your coattails.”

Jeralt glanced at him, concerned but trying not to jump to conclusions. “Bigger issue? Anything to do with your sister?”

“Sort of. I'm giving them a chance to work it out on their own.” Jorah gestured to wave it off. “Your daughter is always going to be a rival in her eyes. And Tatey didn't always understand how to express she didn't want to fight with some stranger over her own dad.”

With a sigh, Jeralt ran a hand through his hair. “I thought it might be something like that. Tate's short with her, but she also left Leonie the end of her breakfast so I don't think she's strictly hostile.”

“She's establishing her boundaries where she needs to. At least Alois doesn't feel threatened by us.” Jorah offered playfully.

Jeralt snorted. “Yeah, he's more likely to just be an annoying big brother figure.”

“Tate took easier to him like that than I did for sure.” Jorah looked away, and Jeralt was reminded yet again his kids were far older than they seemed.

“Well we've talked about your sister enough. What's going on with you? You went out of your way to get a chat with your old man. I'm all yours.”

Jorah seemed surprised then shook it off. He went over to close and lock the door, and Jeralt could see him resting his head on it for a second.

It hurt, not knowing what was going on with his son. Of course, he hadn't necessarily understood what was going on with them to begin with, but at least he always had Tate around and could figure her out.

“Hey, what's wrong?” Jeralt stood up and walked over, putting a hand on his shoulder.

“Sorry just…getting overwhelmed trying to compose my thoughts.” Jorah admitted. He took a deep breath and turned back to face Jeralt.

“Take your time and talk it out.” Jeralt pulled Jorah over to hug.

He hated that they'd both grown so big and he felt helpless to be any support to them. This supposed time travel also gave an extra layer of difficulty. His kids had grown up where he couldn't see or know anything about it.

Jorah leaned on him and seemed to be trying to keep it together, to not break down as hard. Jeralt rubbed his back and tried to just let him decide how to move forward.

“Lady Rhea asked me to be her apprentice.” Jorah finally managed.

Jeralt blinked then frowned. He pulled Jorah back slightly to just look him over. “Did she?”

“Yeah.” Jorah nodded then shook his head. “She did but that's not what I wanted to talk about. That just popped out.”

“Huh. That's a pretty big thing though. Why?” He scanned his son's face, for what he didn't know.

“It's…complicated. Other life stuff. Stuff about when I was a baby.” Jorah rubbed at his head sheepishly.

Jeralt huffed and looked at him. He remembered that when his son was a baby, Rhea had used some power to stabilize him and he'd been fine after so Jeralt hadn't been as anxious about it in comparison to Tate's obvious issues and Rhea's weirder behavior. He didn't know if he should be more concerned she'd returned her attention to Jorah.

As he looked his son over up and down, he spotted a difference again.

“Your hair turned back.”

“What?” Jorah looked up in alarm, eyes wide. Strangely, he touched his ear first before anything else.

“Yeah, it's back to blonde.” Jeralt agreed, “Like when you were little. It started turning a little different when you got in fights or when you'd been away for a long while. Maybe I'm just seeing things.”

“No…” Jorah's response was a quiet gasp, and he was looking at the floor, almost guilty.

“I see.” Jeralt frowned, but didn't make any moves. “Is this also related to her?”

His son gave a weak nod and then… he was different.

The young man who looked up was still his son, but he also wasn't. Still the same face, same haircut, same clothes, sams little features he had for years. But his hair and eyes were another color, and his ears, the fangs visible when he gave a weak smile…

“Kid, you've finally got your mother's weird ears, huh?”

It was the first thing Jeralt could think to say, but he knew exactly who his son had started to resemble and it wasn't really Sitri. He could put Jorah in a lineup with Rhea, Seteth and his kid, and he wasn't sure he'd be able to pick out which was related to himself.

“In my last life, it took years before I looked like this. Had all sorts of battle scars too so I just never looked like this again. Tate at least got to go back to her normal after that.” Jorah babbled, probably just from how awkward he felt. “When I woke up again o had to get this changed back fast. I can't go around in public this way you know?”

“Yeah, it'd make it hard to blend in.” Jeralt gave him a heavy pat on the shoulder. “So you got a bunch of Rhea's power and now she wants you to be her apprentice?”

He nodded, “I took on her job in my last life. We're, I don't know…reconnecting? I'm sorting out how I feel.”

With a firm shake of his head, Jorah went back to blonde.

“This isn't what I wanted to talk about. I just…I don't remember what I did want to talk to you about.” He seemed so helpless, like a lost kid again.

Jeralt reached out to hug him again.

“Come here. It's ok. You don't have to know.” Hugging his son tight, Jeralt tried to be comforting, even gruff and confused as he was. “You don't have to have a serious topic to want to spend time with your dad.”

“I feel like I do, I don't know how otherwise…”

Jeralt sighed and ruffled his son's hair. “I'm sorry about that. You don't need to do or be anything special to want to see me. I'm not always the best at knowing what you need, but I still love you. I'm here now matter what.”

That seemed to have hit something unintentionally and Jorah suddenly squeezed him. Jeralt could feel the way he'd started to cry quietly. It broke his heart all over again.

“I'm sorry I couldn't be there for you guys later either. I don't know what happened but I'm still sorry…”

“You know about that?” Jorah froze.

Jeralt snorted, “I can make an educated guess.” He pat Jorah's head again. “The first thing your sister did was hug me and cry, saying she missed me. You two don't have to say it, I can figure it out.”

How could Jeralt not piece it together from how they acted? His daughter's newfound clinginess or Jorah's seeming reliance on that guy Seteth. Even just the way they talked around their future… he hadn't been there for it. His kids had to bury him and they probably didn't resolve anything between them.

“You don't have to talk about it.” Jeralt tried to be reassuring again. “But I'm here. I'm still here and I'm willing to do whatever I can to make it up to you. I just need to know what you need from me.”

Jorah squeezed him for a bit.

“I don't know yet.” He admitted. “I just…want my dad back. I haven't figured out what that entails. I told my sister to not let me be stupid about making up with you, but it's harder when I'm actually here to get it.”

“Well, for now we've got time to figure it out.” Jeralt ruffled his sons hair. “You can catch me up with life events or ambitions or something, ok? Just get it figured out. I'm going fishing with your sister tomorrow. Figure something you'd like to do out and then we can talk over all that stuff. Sound good?”

Jorah choked a laugh. “Yeah. Yeah that sounds good. Thanks. I'm gonna go find Claude before Leonie gets back. I don't need her seeing me like this.”

Jeralt let him head out and went to take a seat at his desk again.

“What am I even going to do about them?”

He shook his head and sat back, musing for a while.

“Hey J, Captain, I'm back!” Leonie called out as she knocked on the door and poked her head in. “Huh? Where'd he go?”

“He had some stuff to catch up on. Welcome back, Leonie. What'd you bring?”

She brought over the wrapped meals to lay out for them.

“I have to give him back his change. The pub had a special going so I got us a great lunch at a bargain.” Leonie chattered again, catching him up about her trip. “The food looked and smelled great too. I'll probably stick to the dining hall in future but it's a good find.”

“Just give it to him Monday. Or keep it, he may not mind.” Jeralt took up some of his own and nodded. “You're saving for your village, right? Paying back your tuition? The dining hall is definitely more affordable in that case.”

“Yeah!” Leonie nodded, already cutting into her main course. “I'm trying to really make a good use of the education here. Anyway, I'll just give it back when I see him. If I'm trustworthy on errands, he'll give me more.”

“Looking forward to errands that much?”

“He paid pretty well. And it was a good way to get early horseriding practice in! We've been talking about me going for a cavalier route like you. J says bow knights are specialized enough to make extra when hired too.”

“Glad you're meshing well with him then.” Jeralt took a drink from what she brought back. It was nothing heavy but that was probably better for him - a regular pub probably wouldn't let Leonie just buy something too strong anyway.

“Yeah. He's not a teacher like you were, buy I'm happy enough for now. I definitely think I need to train more and see if I can go up against the Professor sometime soon though.”

Jeralt shook his head and just worried about his meal. Tate was definitely going to have to handle that on her own. Honestly, he was looking forward to it.

Chapter 10: Edelgard Remembers Further

Chapter Text

Edelgard was infinitely relieved on realizing the future visions would not be a constant plague on her day to day life. While she would occasionally know things she shouldn't or see a flash of a future version of someone, she had yet to deal with more large quantity memory dumps. There would be scenes now and then but it wasn't a full time distraction and did not hinder her in combat.

Tate softly swearing during the mock battle over calling Ferdinands name at once had reminded her of it having been an occasional mistake in their former life, at least for a time. It made her think of cute errors and scenes of play between students.

It wasn't till after the battle, when she'd gone to discuss it with Tate that another series of visions came to her. While she'd initially planned to just chat with her professor and try to fish for information on her and her motives, the scenes were enough to put it far from her mind.

She had been standing in an alcove, out of sight, as she didn't want to interrupt her Professor talking to another student. It was while watching Tate and Ferdinand speak that she saw another proper scene from the future.

He grew taller, and seemed far more of a mature adult than his present schoolboy nature. His hair had grown out long and it caught the light or swished as he spoke and gestured. Edelgard had a vision previously of Tate getting a lecture on tea from him, but now seeing the visual of the person that had accompanied the voice before was strange.

The Ferdinand of that future was still similarly exuberant and talkative as he was now, had that same seeming ideal of nobility but came across far less pompous. Initially, she could only see the phantom image of him talking to their Professor but the actual scenes came shortly after.

Edelgard could see scenes of him in battle or day to day business as she had with Hubert's future presence. But the scene settled into focus this time, rather than a wedding like she saw for her second, it was a scene of Ferdinand having a passionate argument with someone unseen.

“She has a right to know! I do not think it is right trying to act as if everything is well purely because she is already in pain! You are an important person to her and she would rather know and be there for you than be kept from it, can you not see that?!”

The other person's response was unclear to her but Ferdinand was clearly incensed by it.

“Do you think her a fool?! She can tell something is wrong with you! She can tell you are hiding something and avoiding her! Will that not be more worrisome than giving her the truth?!”

He seemed frustrated but tried to calm himself, running a hand through his long ginger hair. He tried to calm his temper and spoke again.

“I will give you till the end of the week, my love. If you do not tell Edelgard, I am telling her myself.”

How puzzling. Who was keeping something from her that Ferdinand of all people was advocating for her knowing? They were not close at present, but his tone speaking of her was far warmer somehow. Less disrespectful perhaps?

She had been addressing her Professor before being hit by the vision so had to quickly stabilize herself before continuing the conversation.

Edelgard was sure Tate had been concerned over her strange behavior, but had decided not to act on it. She headed back to repair her weapons and gear from the mock battle. It was a suitable task to do mindlessly and process her thoughts.

She understood certain parts of this future timeline more solidly than others. While the totality was still taking time to settle, big events were coming together in some ways. It was giving her some inclings about the future but nothing complete.

They had been to war, had seen some path outside of the one she had been on presently. She had married her Professor after. At some point she had retired and her health had been deteriorating. Her crests were removed, her hair even managed to turn brown again…but she had still passed.

The scene of Hubert's wedding had been before her retirement, given her official garb on the occasion. The scene of her passing Tate learning from Ferdinand had been during the war or just after. In the most recent scene of him vehemently arguing for her to be told something, he had implied the reason it was concealed was that Edelgard herself was in pain - so was this during her illness?

Ferdinand had called that person “my love” and she recalled he seemed to be wearing a ring. It was rather within her expectations he'd be married by that point in his life. He was the sort to be a romantic and to marry, to start a family, was something he'd eagerly consider a noble duty. She didn’t know much about Ferdinand’s personal preferences, but given the standards he was raised under (and seemed to adore) a wife was likely the safer bet. If he had a wife she was a close friend with… no that didn’t bring anyone to mind either. Though they may not have met yet - or gotten closer if they had. That was nice, potentially? Still there was a lot of room to consider there so she put a pin in that concept for now.

There were too many possibilities for what sort of crisis it was to judge just now. There were any number of issues that could come up in even one person’s life, let alone a couple’s. But it was food for thought - perhaps, though rosy, the future they had lived in had other great flaws besides her death. If her Professor, her wife, felt she could give them all a better future and turned back the clock to do so, there were likely other events she wished to remedy.

Edelgard was puzzling over this and similar tidbits for a great deal of the day. As they had won the mock battle and it was the weekend, not much was required of her for the rest of the day anyway. Still it had been quiet… moreso than she expected.

The distinct lack of Hubert popping in to check on her meant that he had either deemed she was tired so was leaving her be… or he'd arrived and left without her notice, which was more worrisome. Not because she felt she'd be in any danger from him at all, but Hubert deciding to do something out of worry for her was not out of the realm of possibility.

Getting up, Edelgard made sure she was properly dressed before slipping out of her room. She checked his room first but got no response. After some consideration, she decided to check on their Professor quick and try a few spots after that. She couldn't exactly put it past him to not to threaten or interrogate the new odd element in her vicinity.

She arrived and could see the door of Tate's room closed. Stepping nearer, however, she could catch the sound of her professor talking to Hubert alright, as she caught his name towards the end.

What was more stunning were the words said before that.

“You would not believe me if I were to tell you that I love Edelgard. That I would move the world for her safety and happiness. That there is someone in this world whose devotion to her rivals your own.”

It was impossible not to be a little moved by hearing such a confirmation. For someone she suspected had turned back time for her, at least in part, to state with confidence that she'd move the world for her. That she was devoted to her. How could it not move her?

She stifled a giggle at Tate saying she wasn't afraid of Hubert, that she could dear many things but not him. That did seem accurate, from both current behavior and memory.

Quickly, Edelgard made her way further from the door and went a small ways off. She didn't usually make a habit of listening in on conversations like that - even if her future memories of passing scenes recently made that seem more common.

Still she knew better than to let her friend see her when he left the room. She wasn't going to actually question him on why he was doing this so there was no need to make him feel he had been caught doing something wrong. She would just meet him elsewhere along the path and mention she had been looking for him and that would be enough to move on from this.

The next day, Edelgard did her best to stay focused and not lose herself in thought. It wasn't good for her to be so trapped in her own head, and she could tell it was worrying Hubert and her Professor. So she went about her other duties and plans as normally as she could.

It was in the late afternoon that something attracted her attention strangely.

She was sitting by a window in the dining hall with Hubert, going over some correspondence received from Enbarr. It was Hubert who first drew her attention to the pair talking outside.

“How curious, for our Professor to be quite so close and conspiratorial with another House Leader.” Hubert had observed, a sly sort of amusem*nt in his voice.

“Oh?” Edelgard looked up, and was startled by another flash of a future self but also the information contained.

“Almyran?” she muttered to herself.

Yes, the person outside who had come up to Tate and started speaking animatedly to her was Claude. She saw that brief phantom of him, older, stronger, a handsome and even regal look compared to his casual demeanor on the regular. But what she understood on seeing that phantom wasn't just that it was a future Claude but that the man she saw in that moment was the King of Almyra.

If Hubert heard what Edelgard slipped and said, he didn't comment. He merely looked at Edelgard with that same deeply concealed concern he had all day.

“Her brother is his assistant professor, they may be discussing him.” Edelgard finally answered, trying to shake off the urge to see what they were talking about. Was this becoming a bad habit now?

As if noting her dilemma and taking pity, Hubert commented dryly, “Perhaps it would be best if we were to remind him that he has his own Professors he can bother?” The small huff and smirk he hid made Edelgard suspect he thought she was jealous.

Gathering her things, Edelgard stood. “Yes, we may as well.” If she was with him, at least any surreptitious behavior was less purely her own improper nosiness, surely?

Stepping out a nearby door, the pair came to where Tate was seated, going over a supply list, and Claude was chatting with her.

“I'm just saying, Tatey, if you did it to me, you could have done it to her too.”

“Maybe so. If she wishes to discuss it with me, she will in her own time.” Tate didn't look up from her pile of lances she was checking for quality against her list.

“Are we interrupting something?” Hubert stepped in, eyes narrowed and focused on their Professor. Edelgard guessed it related to their previous talk.

“Oh look who it is. The princess and her shadow.” Claude gave that same smile he always did, to throw one off his trail, though Edelgard could detect something more in his eyes. Amusem*nt?

“You were not interrupting. Come here, see if this is reasonable for you.” She held one of the lances out to Hubert.

Edelgard felt relieved. She couldn't help glancing at Claude, even as she took a seat on the bench beside Tate. But it wasn't necessarily with suspicion - it felt like what he was bringing up was something she'd suspected already.

“Starting your mage on lances, Tate, really?” Claude said playfully.

“Options are good. I imagine my brother will be encouraging the same for Lysithea.” Tate gave Claude a pointed look.

He glanced at her, at Hubert, at Edelgard, then back to her and something seemed to click into place. While Edelgard couldn't tell what it was, what they both knew, it was further confirmation that Claude might have potential future memories.

“I'm sure whatever our Professor has in mind, she has a good reason.” Edelgard suggested.

Hubert held the Lance in hand, looking at it with a slight disdain or suspicion.

“I hope this doesn't herald an intention to make me suddenly learn to ride a horse as well.” He asked, looking at Tate with as much venom as he could muster.

“Most insightful.” Tate agreed. “At least you won't be alone. I'm making Linhardt learn as well.”

Claude burst out laughing.

“Is that your new form of weekly entertainment, Tate?”

“Sarcastic mages on horseback. They would rather be doing anything else, and I will hear about it in the most colorful terms.” Tate continued, her flat voice giving the joke a dry note that made Edelgard have to cover another laugh.

“Well there are worse partners with whom I could be partnered with.” Hubert wasn't keen on the subject but he knew that was the joke, and couldn't just give up in that case.

“Ferdinand and Bernadetta will be excellent company for you both.” Tate didn't miss a beat.

Hubert's visible eye widened, and then narrowed again. “Your amusem*nt is not-”

“-is not the only reason for my choices.” Tate said firmly. “I do not feel students with a great deal of power and potential need to be left behind in a situation where maneuverability would be a key advantage.”

“Getting Bernadetta comfortable with horses early would be quite beneficial.” Edelgard chimed in to ease the situation in support. She smiled softly, feeling that Bernadetta had grown vastly in confidence with careful guidance.

“Getting her comfortable with her classmates will also be quite beneficial.” Tate agreed. “Hubert, if that lance suits, you can keep it to practice in advance. I will drop one off with the others later.”

He looked displeased but his irritation was vastly soothed between Edelgard's intervention and the acknowledgement of his ability in a tactical situation.

Edelgard considered, then spoke again, “Hubert, would you return these items to my room? I do not think I will be continuing these letters for a while.”

Immediately, he returned to a proper dutiful posture. “As you wish, Lady Edelgard.” He didn't seem to want to leave her alone with Tate and Claude but had decided against objecting. Edelgard guessed he found it more prudent to strategically retreat from the conversation for now.

Once he had left, Claude seemed to casually meander around the area before returning.

“Well he actually seems to be gone, so I don't think we're being listened in on.” Claude took a seat on the grass, leaning on his hands.

“So, Princess, you sent away your shadow. Something you want to say? Something you're curious about, perhaps?” He sounded so playful.

“Claude.” Tate spoke sharply.

“It's alright. He isn't wrong.” Edelgard put her hand on Tate's to soothe her. “I am curious, to say the least.”

Who was favored between them was so easy to see. Where she was sharp with Claude for bringing it up, once Edelgard spoke on the subject, Tate turned her full attention to her.

“Have you been feeling alright? You've been losing focus a lot. I hope you aren't in any distress.” She turned herself to be able to look Edelgard in the eye.

“I have been quite distracted, I'll admit. I've been lost in thought a lot.” Edelgard agreed, then glanced over. “I'm curious about what you think I want to know, Claude.”

“Oh that really depends, princess.” Claude winked.

For a moment, the phantom of the future flashed before her eyes.

“Look at that, now we're all family. Do I call you sister-in-law now?”

The voice of a future Claude was just as playful. But there was something affectionate in that, which she guessed came from the situation. They had married a pair of siblings, so had become some sort of related.

Claude of the present's expression flashed.

“What's with that look?”

Tate also seemed concerned. She was doing that silent little frown she got when worried, and had reached up her free hand to touch Edelgard's cheek, looking in her eyes as if searching for a hint of what pained her.

“I'm alright.” She raised her hand to take Tate's and carefully lower it.

Claude seemed to still be thinking about it and got up to move nearer, leaning in her space.

“You don't have them all do you? Your memories. You reacted to me having had weird dreams and trouble sleeping after a flick in the head. I thought it might be… hm.”

“I never received any flick to the head if that's what you're implying.” Edelgard narrowed her eyes. But that was information - did Claude have all of his memories rather than patches of visions?

“What did you have then? Some kind of contact with your Professor, maybe in the first few days? Right when whatever this is started?”

Edelgard glanced at Tate, and the same startled look met her. They both recalled the incident.

“Oh so you both know then? What was it?” Claude looked between them, apparently very used to how they interacted.

Tate seemed shy, turning away.

“I teared up while we were talking. Because I…”

Claude snorted. “Ok, I get it. You couldn't help yourself could you, princess?”

Edelgard gave him a dirty look. If he had more complete memories than her own, he should know very well why her Professor would be crying at seeing her. Seeing a lost loved one again, alive and safe, to be overcome wasn't out of the question. And she wasn't exactly without compassion either, of course she wanted to make sure Tate was alright in the moment.

Turning back to her Professor, Edelgard stroked her cheek gently.

“My teacher, you do not have to be embarrassed.”

“That's it!” Claude snapped.

Again they looked at him, Edelgard trying not to be annoyed.

“Edelgard, you're wearing gloves.”

“And? What has that to do with anything?”

“She flicked me on the forehead directly. You only touched her face through your gloves. It might be that the skin to skin contact or who initiated it or what. But I think that may be it.”

Edelgard was startled then frowned.

“Even if your assumption is true, she doesn't wear gloves and has touched me at least once since then. You have even seen it.”

Tate paused, shaking her head.

“After the first day, I was told I was leaking power. I have been trying to keep it under control.”

“So it's possible that you're getting your memories back more slowly than I did because of how it happened. It took me till last night to really process but that seems accurate.”

Edelgard decided to ignore Claude and instead focus on Tate, who seemed to be distressed.

“Professor?” She held Tate's hand again, trying to reassure her.

“I just told Hubert last night that I didn't cause this, or if I did, I would remedy it. I was worried about you being unwell. It's my fault..” She was staring at her lap, the distress building in her eyes, wide and empty seeming.

“Professor, it's alright. You didn't mean to do anything, and you haven't caused me any harm.” Edelgard squeezed the hand she held. “I admit, I have been distracted, but it hasn't been exactly unpleasant. I have mostly just been surprised.”

“Combining two timelines of memory is a lot at once, and if she's just seeing future visions sporadically or something, rather than everything properly meshing, it's just going to be weird. I don't think she's actually hurt or anything.”

Tate seemed to be trying to calm herself. She closed her eyes and Edelgard could feel her tremble.

Edelgard looked at Claude helplessly.

He looked back and shook his head, shrugging.

“I'm sorry, I'm not the one with the goddess powers or the ability to manipulate time. I don't know how she can improve this either.”

“You're the one who's supposedly a brilliant schemer, think of something. Hubert is going to be back any moment.” Edelgard hissed. She didn't like hiding things from him, but this was not the situation or position she wanted him coming across.

“I know I just- wait, that's it.” Claude snapped again. “Think like a mage.”

Edelgard frowned. “What?”

“Think like a mage.” Claude knelt in front of Tate. “Sis, do you remember? A lot of your best friends are magic users. Some of your favorite people are really smart magic researchers. What would they do with magic nonsense like this?”

Edelgard watched as Tate seemed to start calming down at the words. That was how she learned everything, wasn't it? If it wasn't her speciality, she would work extremely hard to practice and consult those who were experts. When she wanted to get better at brewing tea, she had the resident aficionado teach her and if it was magic…

Tate sat up, eyes fixed and determined. She faced Edelgard once more, and it was a relief to see her so sure now.

“I apologize for any impropriety. I wanted you to choose for yourself, but I do not want you dealing with sloppy work in the meantime.”

Tate placed her bare hands on Edelgard's cheeks and at once, there was a soft flow of power.

It didn't feel like reason or faith, though closer to the later if either. It was a cool and gentle stream of power that seeped through like reaching to the depths of her soul, but always gentle, in control and careful.

Somewhere inside, Edelgard felt the power of her crests stir slightly as this power passed through her. When Claude called it the ‘goddess power’, he wasn't necessarily wrong. It was unlike the power of a Crest in use but it felt like something greater. A lamp before the sun.

The power washed over her slowly, like a gentle spring rain, and then it was done. She didn't feel different but she could tell something had changed.

“There. It should make any restoration of memory less intense. It might be more gradual to remember everything but it will trouble you less.” Tate spoke quite clinically as she returned her hands to her own lap. “Whatever you do with those memories is your choice to make, but it will no longer trouble you the same way.”

Knowing her like Edelgard did - especially now, it felt - Tate seemed to be trying to restrain her own anxiety and affection. To let Edelgard choose to reach out her hand, to make use of the future as she wished. That was her love, she would make sure Edelgard would be able to be well, but she tried not to force anything beyond.

Edelgard was sure if she didn't want to acknowledge their former relationship in this life, Tate would say nothing of it. Her love was deep but it was freely given with no requirement of return. It made returning it easy in that way.

“I believe I need time to think, and recover from whatever this was.”

Tate nodded. “Take all the time you need.”

“Thank you, my teacher.” Edelgard smiled at her again then stood up.

As she walked by Claude, she noticed him peering away from the garden they were in.

“Did you see something?”

“I thought so but I can't be sure. It wasn't Hubert though, I know that much. He's taller. I'll keep my eye out.” Claude shrugged. “Better move on anyway, princess.”

“I shall. Thank you, Claude.”

It was only on the way back to her room that Hubert caught up with her. Strangely, he seemed like he was coming from another building entirely. He also seemed slightly out of breath and annoyed.

“Hubert, are you alright?”

“It is nothing to concern yourself with, Lady Edelgard. And you?” Hubert brushed off the topic. He didn't seem to be avoiding it so he probably considered whatever it was trivial.

“I am well. I was going to return to my room after all.”

“Was what concerned you before dealt with then?”

Edelgard considered a moment then nodded. “I was able to relieve my mind. I should be much better in the near future.”

Hubert took a breath, pretending he was still catching it but she knew otherwise.

“Hubert.” Edelgard started, then gave a small smile. “I'm sorry for worrying you. I really did have a lot on my mind, but now I see much clearer. We will have much to work on soon, and I promise you, I will be in a far better state.”

He looked at her, cautious, perhaps unsure if she was lying or trying to comfort him.

“I hope to see it so.” Hubert frowned then, “and I hope there will be no further complications from our Professor.”

“She will be a greater asset to us than you know. Please try your best to listen to her instructions. I will not ask you to trust her, but do as she asks where possible.”

Hubert gave a sigh of his that she knew meant he was begrudgingly considering it.

“If I must, for now.”

“That is all I can ask.” She smiled and went to head upstairs.