Hero

Of Blood and Magic

---

---

No wonder Ben said Lilie needed to 'socialize with her peers'--she was having a hard time keeping up with the conversation. She did giggle a little at Maddie's reaction, but Max and Aaron's conversation was just weird. She wasn't that dumb to think everyone had to always get along with each other, but there was definitely an additional undertone to what they were talking about. And at that, she definitely felt like she shouldn't know anything they were talking about. Yeah, she was green with envy that Eris Samael was attending and she wasn't lucky enough to be his mage, but the way Max talked he was--well, actually, Lilie couldn't really put her finger on it. But it was weird.

Brushing her bangs off her forehead, Lilie let out the tiniest protest as the bracelet somehow got caught in her hair. She really hated it--her hair was so fine it probably would tangle in the wind if she didn't comb it as often as she did! And of course it would tangle on something she couldn't afford to break. At least it wasn't too bad, and since most everyone was focused on the conversation, she could wrestle out the bracelet in peace. She placed it around her glass, content to stay without it for a little bit.

At Maddie's words, Lilie perked up considerably--Kanalie had texted her about it earlier, but she didn't get the chance to agree to it yet. Maybe if Aaron could go she could somehow scrounge up the courage to say how sorry she was for the kitchen fiasco, and maybe try to set the mood to try again? She definitely needed to get the real Aaron, not Butler Aaron, and it was good for him to get a break, anyway?

Letting out another giggle, she shook her head. "Firefly? I think I prefer Maestro, they'd definitely agree with me if they ever saw him play," Lilie said. Getting a tiny burst of impulsiveness, she dared herself to look at Aaron, though she ended up looking at Salem--she already figured Max would rather cut his arm off than go to another party. "I think it's a great idea, though! I love Moon's Mirror, it's definitely my second favorite to Chaend. Hm, I should probably ask if I could bring something, I'm sure I could get something together."

---

Of Blood and Magic

---

---

The countess must have read his mind, because there she was again, laying it out on old Benicio. The thought of both mage lovers disliking one another pleased him to no end, even if this time he was just a touch confused on this attack in particular. Why, were he the type to clutch his pearls, he might've been offended that the countess would even utter a word against Princess Ryner's security! But now it was obvious to Eris that Miss Holier-Than-Thou was only playing the part of the concerned noble: all she wanted to do was lay it thicker on Benson. Disappointing, but definitely entertaining. Too bad he couldn't comment on Sunny, but he had already been told off for being too soft on him. Oh well.

But something the Countess said had given Benji an odd look. Probably confusion--and for once Eris couldn't blame him cause he wasn't sure which incident the countess was talking about--and of course Eris couldn't just let that go.

Putting a strong tap at the base of his glass, Eris leaned forward a little, feigning confusion for a second before straightening up. "I believe you're mistaken with the shuffle of Eves, Countess," Eris said, holding up a finger. "Let me think...I believe you may be confusing Count Eve with the other male Count Eve, I believe his name was...Ikelos. Hm."

Holding up a finger, he reorganized the timeline in his head. "First was Countess Arianna, second was Ma--no, Ikelos was second, but he was replaced," Eris held up a second finger, correcting himself. "Countess Mariette was present for the arrest and the string of--I see now, I apologize, my timeline was off." He lied, chuckling. "But I don't think the countess is aware that the count was not present for any of the happenings the school has had the misfortune of experiencing. We can't very well put blame on the count, can we?"

Eris looked at Amaris, raising an eyebrow. "Unless you have reason to doubt the count?" He slowly asked. "I have to agree with Count Sinnenodel, you seem particularly peeved for someone of your station to be so concerned." A little too much? Probably. But if he wasn't here to sow chaos then he may as well have stayed home and caught up on his soap opera. And he'd be damned if he had to go home empty handed.

---

Sum up your week in roleplaying in just 3 words

Planting the seeds~

Fire Emblem: The Slumbering Goddess

---

---

"I'd be surprised if you did know. Crest knowledge and research isn't nearly as commonplace as it should be," Tomai replied to Lienna's comment without skipping a beat, whatever negativity he had definitely wasn't aimed at her in particular. He did drop the unpleasantness, rising from his seat and walking over to the chalkboard nearby. Cautiously flipping it over to its blank side, he began a series of strokes, creating a circle of what looked like symbols. Once he finished, he tapped each one--twenty taps--before going to the blank center and drawing one last symbol.

Satisfied, he turned to Lienna. "You're correct. Crests were often rumored to give minor blessings varying from bloodline to bloodline, but on a whole were consistent with their effects," He told her. "When looking at crest bearers, to the naked eye nothing stood out about them. It was said some people went their entire lives without even knowing they even have crests. One could argue that aside from showing up on a Hanneman Machine, nothing separated a crest bearer from the rest of humanity."

Pinching the bridge of his nose, he shook his head. "And this changed around three or so centuries ago. The first count came from one of the Emperor's children who disappeared from the sight of a maid. It was not magic, but an inherent ability. The child bore the Crest of Cethleann, yet their elder sibling who bore the same crest exhibited no such abilities," Tomai revealed. "It wasn't until a decade later that another recorded incident appeared: one bearing the crest of Gautier held a strength that could topple walls with their bare fists. Within the century, almost one hundred differentiating crest bearers were discovered to have these innate abelites."

Tomai was more than certain Lienna would have thought that he was giving her the runaround, but he deemed the information necessary before continuing. "The only hint we have is that the archbishop at the time, Archbishop Rhea, received a revelation from the Goddess after an unnoted tragedy befell a village called Remire. While the details of that day are unclear, the revelation that Archbishop Rhea received stated that Fódlan was in need of unification, and to help the people, the goddess' blessings would change to lead Fódlan to a better future."

He paused for a moment, giving Lienna a slight shrug. "The Emperor's child was born that night. The timeline is...too solid to discredit the revelation," He reluctantly admitted. "That said, I think whatever happened in Remire is what changed the crests and not the revelation. And that something is this."

Tomai circled the symbol in the center. "The Crest of Flames. None have held it since the days of Nemesis...but a few personal accounts from those that lived in Remire witnessed its return. I believe that the final crest coming to Fódlan somehow amplified the other crests," He gave the board a tap. "Twenty one crests. Twenty manifestations. Each unique, and despite multiple studies, there is no consistency between crest and power. While it's still being researched on why, I think the fault lying in the Crest of Flames is more likely than believing it to be some random blessing."

Putting the chalk down, he walked over to his seat and sat down, turning the nest page. "It's a lot to take in, but you seem bright enough to handle it," He said, as if it was some weird apology for talking too much.

---

---

Ioannis couldn't help his blush, his smile humble as he shook his head at Auberon's compliment. He listened patiently to the conversation, interested as they spoke of the other students. Once it was time for him to speak, he remembered himself, straightening up just a touch--though he was still much more relaxed around the pair than he had been with others. At Clarissa's question, Ioannis's lips parted, but he hesitated, as if surprised. After a second, however, he put on his smile again.

"I did. After some encouragement from Lady Arianthe, I felt that I should make a statement to the Officers Academy. Particularly with the class arrangements," He admitted. "There are some in the clergy that did not think a child should have any say in the manners of the church and academy, and that I should leave things to Sirius. I suppose that paints me in a poor light, but rest assured that I had the best intentions. I really do think that the Rose Unit will be a shining example on the unit system because if those in highborn and lowborn can come together, then we will have succeeded in unifying the people a little more."

Ioannis shifted just a touch, taking in a small breath. "I...I am sorry if that is too much! I seem to be rambling!" He laughed. "I've never actually admitted any of that to anyone, but I suppose it must be because you're both of great character!" He beamed, the small beads in his headpiece clinking together as he looked between the pair.

"I'm always happy to hear from the students, though. If you have any other questions, I'm more than happy to answer them!"

---

---

Of Blood and Magic

---

---

Boy oh boy, Eris couldn't believe he missed the previous bickering. But eh, Count Benson was doing okay at answering Varis' line of questions. At least he wasn't completely hopeless, but there wasn't anything he could properly attack without drawing ire from someone whose opinion actually mattered. At least the blood was alright--pleasant enough that one wouldn't retch, but not so impressive that anyone would think to ask him for more.

Blood aside, he didn't know what was worse, Benji over there giving him no wiggle room or the silent duo just watching. He had almost forgotten all about the Astorio--if it wasn't for Sunny coming in to exchange the glasses, he wouldn't have even thought to look that way.--and it looked like the countess put herself in a time out corner for bickering with Bentley. That or she was trying to look 'intelligent' as those bookish usually called themselves when they would only observe. The problem with just watching was that they'd go nowhere whenever they finally decided to do something.

Eris honestly should have known it would fall to him to salvage the conversation--what would Varis do without him aside from whine at him well into the morning? The blonde straightened up a touch before leaning backwards in his seat, looking over at Benard. "It looks like the count has made an impression on the room," He commented airily. It wasn't entirely an insult per se, but at least it would get the ball rolling and smush that ego a little. "I think you've shocked these two into silence. But since no one else is piping up, there is something I'm curious about."

Smile lessened, eyes sharpened, and just a hint of concern: the perfect cocktail for an expression that made it seem like Eris might care about the response he was going to get. "Your comment on archery was curious--you don't really seem like the type for violence," He admitted that much first, letting it sink in before continuing with, "Not to suck the drink out of an empty cup, but with a little mouse as your mage while you're here, do you find it necessary to find other means to defend yourself?"

He wasn't going to let that linger for too long--he didn't want an answer to that, he was going in for his own strike. "It's a weird question, I know, but I think your little mouse might've gotten that impression, too," There was almost a sparkle in his eye as he spoke. "There's been talk of some sort of underground fighting arena of some sort, and who would be at the helm but the very obvious Astorio mage and his apparent partner-in-crime: one Eve mage."

---

Fire Emblem: The Slumbering Goddess

---

---

A gaggle of curious students had filed into the seats around the small arena, an odd eagerness in the crowd. The chattering created a buzz around the place, something an exasperated Kaira noted as she took her seat in the front. She locked eyes with Michail, who seemed just as excited as the other students, much to her dismay. At the very least should anything go wrong, she was prepared to intervene. Of course, she also hoped Michail would conduct the match appropriately--it wouldn’t do to have an incident happen so early.

Michail watched Valerian enter, grinning at the other blond as he tapped what looked like a long, wooden pole to the ground. Once he was close enough, Michail decided to be the responsible professor he was expected to be. He raised his free hand, the talk along the stands quieting. “Just a few things before we start,” He said cheerfully, holding up a finger. “The first one to hit the ground loses. You’re free to come at me with everything you have: your sword, any magic you may know, or whatever else you have up your sleeve.” He held up a second finger as he spoke.

Slowly lifting the third finger, there was a gleam in his eye as he said, “I’ll warn you now, I’m only going to hit you once. If you’re still standing after that, we’ll call it a win.”

Valerian’s eyes didn’t share the same gleam Michail had; they seemed already defeated. With what little optimism he had left he put on a fake smile and retorted, “Then I’ll just have to dodge once then Sir Knight.” Somehow he couldn’t stop from making the situation even worse.

“That’ll be the challenge, eh?” Michail seemed to agree, remaining relaxed as he spun his weapon around him, pointing one end at Valerian. “Bring back that gusto from the classroom and come at me with everything you have!”

Those words spurred something inside of Valerian. “You’re going to regret those words sir!” Valerian playfully let out. Twirling his sword the young lad broke out into a beast-like sprint, only one thing was on his mind landing a blow on the man in front of him. Gripping his sword with both hands Valerian threw all his weight into a downward slash towards Michail.

Michail’s eyes narrowed as if he noticed something, though by the time Valerian reached him he had straightened up. He shook his head in disapproval as he sidestepped the attack, the top of his pole looping around Valerian’s sword and sliding down the wood, effectively speeding up his descent. With a surprising amount of strength in a small move, he used the boy’s own momentum to toss him away.

Valerian stumbled from the sudden shift of weight, flailing one of his arms while another held straight trying to reestablish some sense of balance. The area around Valerian’s upright hand started to distort, appearing to be a miniature maelstrom. With a smirk and a single word “Gotcha!” the miniature storm leapt from Valerian’s hand tearing a path towards Michail, while shifting enough of Valerian’s weight to allow him to regain some composure.

The unexpected spell came at an unfortunate time, hitting Michail square in the shoulder. For all intents and purposes it was a direct hit, sending the knight back as he skidded to a halt. Letting out a low whistle, Michail grinned. “Not bad, not bad,” He complimented Valerian. “Thought I had you there, but your reflexes are better than I expected.”

“Thank you Sir! I have good reflexes, but I lack the training.” Valerian gave a little bow before moving towards Michail with his blade pointed at him. This was his chance for an offensive to work, letting loose a flurry of slashes towards Michail. High, left, low, right, upwards, downwards, slashes came from Valerian. He was gaining some ground, but something felt off about this. Trusting his instincts Valerian stopped for a split second.

At that point, Michail decided it was time to end the fight. That same gleam in his eye returned, an energy bursting forth as he slammed the pole against Valerian's weapon.

“I see that now. Unfortunately, this is where it ends,” He informed him of his decision with the same cheerfulness as before, swinging the pole over his head. Valerian parried it easily, albeit the time between that and Michail suddenly kicking the back of Valerian’s knee was mere milliseconds. There wasn’t a chance to react before the student suddenly found himself getting thwacked away by a swift kick, sending the poor guy flying and landing on his back.

Michail straightened up, shooting the kid a grin as he rested his elbow on the pole. “That’s the game, then!” He called it at that point. “Look at that, it took more than one hit, too. Just a little polish and maybe you’ll make a decent knight someday.”

---

---

Of Blood and Magic

---

---

With some time between it, the practical was a mixed bag of fun and shame. Lilie absolutely loved the concept of it--advanced magic weaving challenges and testing their abilities was fantastic--but the rest of it was still trying to settle in her mind. She had revealed an awful lot about herself and had to confront some things she didn't want to, and that part wasn't as great as the magic. Still, she'd be lying if she said she didn't enjoy it, she just wasn't really sure if she wanted to open that can of worms.

She wasn't sure what Max's point was, but she didn't think asking was a good idea. Their experiences were also a lot different than hers, now that she thought about it. Fighting a vampire seemed terrifying, even if it was a test! When Aaron mentioned the other challenge, however, Lilie realized she could definitely mention those without spilling everything.

"All the ones we ran into were cooperative," Lilie piped up, taking a second to remember. "Let's see...the best one had to be where we had to go through these pools of water with these stones that made it way easier to control the water, it was like getting a look into the future when I have better control over my magic."

"One we failed was a little dull, but it didn't make too much sense to me," She admitted. "It was a statue of King Noila, and he said 'Fear the one that does not fear me.' And it was Sybil Sinnenodel, but she was a lot younger. 'No man may make me kneel, no vampire demand dominion,' she said. I don't really get what it was trying to say, but Ben--Count Eve seemed kinda miffed."

She frowned to herself as she remembered the worst one, letting out a tiny sigh. "And then there was the whole 'give and take' one, though. 'A simple gesture, chaste and true, holds more wishes than words ever do. Out the door and back at morn, a good luck charm with no shape and form yet it lingers in heat and memory too. Given and taken in willing exchange, only this can win the game.' Whoever wanted to see a kiss between a vampire and a mage had a really bad sense of humor," She muttered, downing some of her drink with a frown.

Realizing she had been talking for a while, she cleared her throat. "We did a lot of challenges, but I don't think we even reached the one hundred percent mark since we failed some of them. Maybe next time, we'll do better, but he--the count did say one of the princess' objectives definitely happened for us. Whatever that means."

---

Fire Emblem: The Slumbering Goddess

---

---

Tomai hadn't given the students any attention once they were dismissed, eyes focused on the words and symbols in the book in front of him. He had scarcely turned a page when Lienna approached him, even if he was a little surprised, but remained relaxed. Once the young woman had finished speaking, Tomai had sat up just a little--there was obviously very few topics that would gain his interest, but Lienna had definitely chosen the right one.

"That's correct, Miss Orhneaht," He said, giving zero attention to her previous pause and instead moving on with the conversation. "Even before my days at the academy crests have always held a peculiar interest for me, and once the position was offered with free reign over my study subject, I agreed to it."

Closing the book, his finger lightly scratched at Michail's writing, though underneath was a clearly printed title: The Father of Crestology's Top Theories. The book was plain otherwise, but when Tomai opened it again, a familiar crest to Lienna was shown with miniscule writing outlining the borders. "Crest research noticeably slowed down in the last few centuries, only to reveal new possibilities in the last few decades and throwing nearly everything to the flames. I intend to find the reason why," He tapped the Gautier crest before looking up at Lienna. "Is there anything in particular you had in mind? Or did curiosity and boredom lead you today?"

Meanwhile, the quivering blonde girl had done as promised and stared directly at the desk, almost refusing to look at anyone. Her nerves eventually calmed down, but she felt tired. Once the rustle and bustle of the other students moving came around, Isolde stood, fully intending to go straight to her room and hide. Well, that wasn't entirely true, she was a little hungry. Maybe she could grab a snack and work on her sewing? The seamstresses did a good job on her uniform, but she felt her sleeves were a little on the long side.

As the thought crossed her mind, a too-loud voice called out to her, and Isolde nearly cried. She was being invited somewhere? Oh, right, the...fight? Was it really a fight? Challenging a Knight was bold, yes, but she couldn't say it was wise. She had seen their strength firsthand, and while she wished it had been under better circumstances, she was acutely aware that messing with one was usually bad news. Isolde had half a mind to decline, but it'd be awkward if she didn't considering she had no good reason to decline. With a tiny sigh of defeat, Isolde shuffled towards the arena.

Kaira frowned as she watched Isolde, initially reaching out for her, but hesitated. She thought it best not to disturb the student, although she was a little alarmed at how many of them had instantly followed Michail. Some of them weren't even in the unit! Rubbing her temples, she felt it best to also go to the arena. She sincerely hoped no one would get injured and couldn't condone any of this, but at the very least she could step in if things got too dangerous.

Deciding to quickly make her way as well, she nearly bumped into Derec. "So sorry, Derec," She immediately apologize, lightly tapping his shoulder before running off.

Derec only offered a small wave before taking his own leave. As tempting as it was to watch the fight, he knew Auberon wouldn't let him live it down if he missed it. Oh well, the outcome was obvious. Instead, Derec let his mind wander as he walked to the church, missing out on Kellen's subtle escape and Auberon noticing the former's absence. Truthfully, Derec wondered if he could speak to Lord Ioannis again before the day would end, preferably alone. By the looks of it, however, both the captain of the Knights of Seiros and the archbishop's right hand man wouldn't leave his side not even for a moment. Not during the sermon, and not after, either. Tedious, but he supposed it wasn't surprising.

Ioannis finished speaking with a nun when Clarissa approached him. He watched the girl curiously, his head following hers as she curtsied. His eyes lit up at her name, nodding as she finished talking. "Yes, Clarissa von Edmund of the Rose Unit. Or did we decide to call it the Rose Class? Either way, it's a pleasure to meet you," His manner of speaking fit an adult rather than the child he was, and while his energy didn't match hers, it was obvious he was just as happy to talk to her as she was talking to him. "I'm so very pleased you have come, surely the Goddess is just as enthused as you are to have you here."

Auberon's arrival had surprised Ioannis a little, but he still shared his warm smile. "It's no trouble at all, and the honor is mine," Ioannis asked, bowing his head as well. "Thank you for attending, I know the first day is full of excitement and disorientation, but hopefully Her words can bring you some strength to get through the day."

---

---

2020 Highlights?

I got a PS5 and a 3080 so I'm pretty sure I've used up all my luck for the decade. Silver linings!

Fire Emblem: The Slumbering Goddess

---

---

Veronica made careful note to keep track of all the relevant people. She had to admit she was surprised there were maybe only a handful she wouldn't bother giving the time of day; a majority of the students were from relevant families within their nations. It would definitely make the school year easier, even if she was sure that the faculty could use some culling. The blond professor in particular was laughable, making a claim to knighthood when no one in their right mind would believe that for a second. Still, the rest weren't nearly as impressive, and she wasn't thrilled about the idea of essentially being used as a guinea pig.

All the other students had finally finished introducing themselves, including the coward prince and the less-than-pertinent Eagles. Oh well, she was used to having to be the bigger person and make sure she was properly presentable. If she had to drag this idiotic trio across the finish line, so be it.

Standing tall with her chin held high, Veronica's expression made her disdain for the entire ordeal crystal clear. Still, she would at least try to be civil. For now, anyway. "I am Veronica Berenike von Gerth, future princess consort of Adrestia," She stated clearly and concisely. "My likes include horse riding and art. My dislikes include ignorance, indecisiveness, and those who would run from confrontation like cowards." She pointedly threw a glare at the back of the prince's head, taking her seat promptly and crossing her arms.

Each professor was equally pleased at everyone's participation, from Kaira's gratefulness for Auberon's piety, Michail thrilled to have his art recognized, and Euphemia unable to prevent herself from bringing a hand to her forehead. Once it was clear that all the introductions were finished, there was a quiet murmur among the professors before Michail would clap his hands. "Wonderful. Absolutely wonderful," He was all too giddy at this point but kept himself relatively under control, but it was hard to deny that he was definitely enthused by Valerian's challenge. So much so, in fact, that he added, "I'll be at the arena after this. If you'd like to put that to the test, I'm more than happy to oblige."

"I agree with Professor Michail on the...first part," Lysander cleared his throat. "Once again, we thank you for your understanding and patience and look forward to our year together. I suppose with all that out of the way, we'll dismiss you once again. Feel free to get comfortable with your dorms--I believe the assignments are on the bulletin board outside--and lunch will be served soon. Lord Ioannis is just about to begin the midday sermon as well, and while optional, I highly encourage everyone to attend! Most of the other Knights will also attend, I believe Captain Kalliope will be there, and--"

"All those looking for a show can come on over to the arena," Michail winked at the class.

"--if there are any questions or concerns, our doors are always open," Lysander sighed, shaking his head. "Dismissed."

That was all the permission Michail needed, giving his fellow professors a bow before striding between the desks, whistling at Valerian. "Come on, Little Aegir, let's see if that bark has any bite to it," The blond beckoned for Valerian to follow, throwing open both doors and hiking it to the arena.

Tomai seemed wholly disinterested, albeit he did immediately go towards the nearest empty seat and open up his book, choosing to read. By how he made himself comfortable, it was obvious he had no intention of moving for some time. The remaining trio lingered for a moment before deciding to go to the church together.

---

---

A variety of student and commoner gathered in the resplendent cathedral, quietly offering prayers before taking their seats. Some would offer up charity to the statue of the goddess before leaving, and a few of the clergy spoke in low voices as they lit up candles along the benches. Archbishop Ioannis was primed and ready to begin, offering a wave to the passerby and responding in kind. The same man stood near him, patting his shoulder before walking away a few paces to speak with a woman. Unlike a majority of people, she commanded respect with every movement, her blank expression betraying her true nature. After a brief interaction, she offered the man a bow, taking a seat towards the front.

"Calamity Kalliope attending a midday sermon? It must be a slow day for the Knights of Seiros," A man in the crowd muttered to himself.

"There's quite a few of them around," The one next to him spoke, gesturing to the same bench Kalliope sat at. At a second glance, it looked like he was right as there were an assortment of knights seated patiently and either conversing among one another or just waiting for the sermon to begin.

Once it looked like everyone was settled, the Archbishop read from one of the scriptures. The enthusiasm he had was somewhat infectious, lifting the spirits of those who attended. The gentle sound of the church's organ rang through, encapsulating the holy spirit. As the image of the goddess smiled down at all from the glass pane, the sermon concluded. The cathedral was shortly filled with the buzz of quiet conversation, and the Knights scattered to different areas of the church.

Sirius returned to Ioannis' side, his expression hardening a touch as Kalliope joined them. Despite the momentary tension, it dissipated as quickly at Lysander's arrival. "Forgive the intrusion, but I thought I'd let you know things went well," Lysander spoke slowly, looking between the two. "...am I interrupting?"

"Not at all, Professor," Sirius replied, giving Kalliope a weary look.

"It's best we leave our discussion for another time," She seemed to agree before giving Lysander her full attention. "Although I will say that I'll be a lot more common around here."

Lysander frowned, a little confused by her statement. "For lack of activity or for safety purposes?" He asked.

"Insightful as ever," Ioannis giggled. "I think I'll take advantage of the presence of so many knights and roam the cathedral." He gave the trio a nod and a smile, deciding to mingle among the people.

Chionne made her exit rather quickly, deciding to head back to the stables, though she nearly bumped into a less-than-pleased Euphemia. "Sorry Ginger, needed to get out before Theo sees me," She apologized. "I swear, every time I look over my shoulder, he's just there, looming."

"Probably because you keep sneaking out at night and scare the heavens out of the night guard," Euphemia rolled her eyes, having no sympathy. "Have some tact, Chionne."

"What, you mean with those rumors?" Now it was Chionne's turn to roll her eyes. "The night attacks have happened on the ground, and I have been in the sky. I'll be fine."

"That isn't what I meant," She shook her head. "Whatever the case may be, caution should be exercised. Or at least anything that lets me sleep better, I'm going to have my hands full with my students and Michail this year. Could you kindly explain to me why you couldn't teach the Golden Deer again?"

"I wasn't going to get suckered into teaching a bunch of spoiled brats. Michail kindly fell on his sword for the rest of us, and for that, I appreciate him. Hang in there, Ginger," Chionne patted Euphemia's shoulder, resuming her walk to the stables.

---

---