>>5196729Monica’s motives are clearly beyond your comprehension, though you have a feeling that all of this is related. The war with the Western Church, the Death Knight and Remire Village, Akzeriuth. And of course, the upcoming war you were warned about by Rex and the Count. The timing of all these events seems too coincidental. You know that the Count expressly forbade you from mentioning any of these things to anyone, but he did say that Edelgard was already aware of what may be going on. Perhaps you should go and talk to her.
The Black Eagles return to the monastery after the wounded from the battle are tended to. Your friends come to see you one after the other, inquiring as to how you are doing. You do your best to ease Ashe and everyone else’s worries, and you let them know you’re fine. Truthfully, you are. You’ll have time to mourn for your departed friends after you take Monica’s head.
Morale at the Officer’s Academy is at an all-time low. Plenty of students personally knew someone who lost their life during the events at the chapel. Additionally, the loss of Captain Jeralt is heavily felt by the Knights. None are hit quite so hard as Professor Byleth, the man’s own daughter. The Professor has become the glue that binds the Black Eagles together, and her grief is keenly felt by her students. After class one day, you plan to speak with Edelgard, but you’re surprised to find that she’s come to you first.
“Blair, how are you holding up?” Edelgard asks. For once, she’s by herself, with Hubert nowhere in sight.
>“I’m doing my best. I miss them dearly, but I won’t let myself fall into grief. Not while there’s still so much left to do.”“I admire your strength Blair, but please, try not to overdo it. You’ve had a lot happen recently. Things are tough enough as is right now, and we’ll need you at full-strength for what’s left to come.”
>“I actually wanted to speak to you about that. What exactly is left to come? The others may not know this but, when I was in Rusalka, it was almost as if they were gearing for war.”Edelgard studies you closely. By now, only the two of you are left in the classroom, the other students having made their way out. “I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised you’d get that impression. Rusalka has always been an important producer of arms for the Empire. And given that you’re likely the only student from Garreg Mach to have visited that territory this year, well, it only makes sense.” Edelgard sighs.
>“So…it’s true then? There really will be a-““I’ll ask you to stop right there.” Edelgard says. “Even if what you’re saying is true, you realize this is hardly the place to discuss it, out in the open. But I will say this, I wasn’t lying to you when I told you I’d like you in my service. Receiving word of your exploits in putting down that rebellion only strengthened that desire.”
>“What do you mean?” 