Chapter 14: Break time
Goetia sat behind the desk in the library, reading through the parchment detailing Tomas' instructions. The man had disappeared again, although this time it had been made apparent what his intentions were.
Travelling into Empire territory to collect a recently released set of research notes to be added to the Monastery Libraries collection, although Goetia himself wasn't quite sure why the Library needed another extended book detailing the History of Fodlan from a revisionist perspective. He very much doubted it would offer anything insightful.
Regardless, it was currently himself and several other clerics in the Library. They, however, gave him a wide berth. His status as a foreigner was already cause for suspicion, add onto that his rather vague stance on the Church of Seiros religion made for hushed whispers of Heresy. It didn't matter too greatly to him, it at least kept them at arms length.
He always did dislike religious Zealots, human belief that they needed some higher power to make their lives more bearable, as if the Gods were so inclined to actually listen to the whims of humans as a whole. He pitied humanity for many reasons, their devotion towards Gods, real and imagined, was one such reason. Not that he would confess to the clerics that he found them pathetic. That would just create unnecessary conflict.
He had recognised the need for Religion as a form of control, understanding the logic behind it. That didn't mean he liked it.
The door to the Library opened, red eyes briefly flickered up to the entrance where he saw the form of Von Riegan walk in. Trademark smirk on his face. He could already tell this was going to be a tiresome encounter. If Byleth was the picture of childish curiosity, then Von Riegan was the picture of childish mischief.
"Shall I assume you are, in fact, not here to study Von Riegan?" Goetia called out to him as the boy approached, Claude gave a mock look of hurt before shaking his head.
"Such cold words, you really think I would come to a library, a place of learning, and not use the facilities appropriately?" He asked in a faux tone of sadness.
"I have little doubt you came to the Library to learn." Goetia remarked, floating the parchment away and giving Claude a half-lidded stare "However you have made it abundantly clear that the information you seek relates to me."
"Can't blame a guy for being curious." Claude shrugged, dropping the act and returning his usual carefree expression "Besides, isn't it normal for a House leader to check up on his classmates?"
"I am not a member of the Golden Deer House, nor did I originate in the Leicester Alliance."
"True." Claude nodded, smile widening as he pulled a chair over, flipping it around and sitting down with his arms resting atop the back "But you've recently begun teaching Magic to people from the Golden Deer, add onto that you sat in on one of our lessons and that you are going to be accompanying us on our first mission." Claude paused "And this is within the first month of you being here."
Goetia released a sigh "My tutoring of Magecraft to Lysithea and young Pinelli are not related to their status as Golden Deer and my joining your lesson was at your insistence. The mission to engage with Demonic Beasts was also one of coincidence, had the Blue Lions or Black Eagles attempted a similar mission, I would have approached their House professors to ask for a similar opportunity to join them."
Claude shrugged "That's also true, but you can't deny your a little more involved in our House than others."
"That is only because your House appears to be far more invested in occupying my time."
"Not true." Claude grinned "I've heard a little rumour that you've been the subject of a, how shall we say, small investigation from a resident retainer. Not to mention a little discussion with her highness."
Goetia straightened himself narrowing his eyes "How...Ah." he nodded his head "The Cleric who collected me from the library was lacking in confidentiality."
Claude smirked "Can't blame them, you know how some people get. Especially when the princess of the Adrestian Empire is seen conversing with a Foreigner, that stuff tends to spark rumours." he shrugged "And Hubert, as talented as he is, isn't quite as good as me. In my humble opinion."
"Humble indeed." Goetia muttered, reclining into his chair "You are, however, not the only one interested in me. I suspect Professor Hanneman will be approaching me soon to inquire as to a possible Crest."
"He hasn't done that already?" Claude blinked, looking genuinely surprised before he snapped his fingers "Ah, he's probably looking at Teach's Crest results. He seemed to be in quite the excited mood."
Goetia furrowed his brows "Was that information as result of your espionage or is Professor Hanneman less inclined to keep his findings hidden?"
"Little bit of both." Claude admitted "Apparently the guy was still awake late at night in his laboratory muttering about Crests, all the servants could hear him. All I had to do was ask one of them about it."
"You seem to have a fascination with discovering secrets."
"Well, secrets are interesting." Claude replied with a grin "They add a little bit of spice to life, and the only thing better than a secret is a mystery." he fixed Goetia with an inquisitive look "And who in this monastery is more mysterious than you right now….Aside from Teach."
"There are a reasons Mysteries exist." Goetia answered "And it would be better that an answer was not discovered in some cases."
"See, saying stuff like that is just going to make people all the more curious."
"You are free to waste your time how you wish, I have made my point. Everything else that occurs is up to you." He returned his gaze to another parchment.
"Why do I get the feeling that when it comes to mysteries and secrets you're actually just as interested as I am?" Claude tilted his head, smiling conspiratorially.
Goetia frowned, raising his head and furrowing his brows at Claude "To what do you refer?"
"You said you were an observer." Claude replied "Someone who watches things is naturally going to want to know about every little thing. But I could be wrong." Claude raised his hands "Maybe you aren't curious about everything, but I don't think I am."
"Hmph." Goetia grunted "You seem confident in this assessment of a personality trait of mine."
"Takes one to know one." Claude replied "But I will remind you that the offer to officially join the Golden Deer is open. For now I'll just consider you an honorary member."
"Would such things not fall under Manuela's jurisdiction?"
"Well, I am the leader of the Golden Deer and-….wait a moment." Claude raised an eyebrow "How come you call him Professor Hanneman but you call her Manuela?" he gave a sly smile "Sounds a little personable."
"...Her first impression was lacking." Goetia dryly put "As was her second."
Claude snorted, covering his mouth with his hand to hide his smile "Oh, I see. You don't actually see her in the same way as Hanneman."
"She was on the verge of inebriation when she entered the classroom to teach you." His mouth curled into a small frown "And her attempts at...courtship, were desperate and pitiable."
"Pfft." Claude covered his mouth, looking away and stifling the laugh he had building up. Goetia watched him attempt to control himself for a few minutes before his laugh tapered off into an amused cough. "R-right." he nodded "I suppose she isn't a traditional Professor, but she was a songstress."
"And yet she is a qualified Professor for the Monastery. I would have expected a certain degree of professionalism from her."
"Don't let her hear you say that." Claude chuckled "She and Hanneman apparently have a long feud running about how she behaves. Haven't witnessed it myself, but the older Clerics say the same thing."
"Unsurprising." Goetia nodded his head "Their personalities seem to be opposites."
"Well, there is that." Claude agreed, the two fell into a silence before Claude spoke up again "Speaking of which, there's been something on my mind for a few days."
"Oh?"
"Yeah, it's about that King you talked about, Solomon." The moment he said the name, he noted how Goetia's eyebrows twitched and his hand formed a fist.
"What about him?" Goetia looked up, eyes slightly narrowed.
"You said he was gifted wisdom by God." He asked, looking more curious now "What kind of wisdom did you mean, you sounded pretty angry about it."
"...Solomon's gift came in the form of Ten Rings." Goetia replied with a tired sigh "Their power was unrivalled. A level of Magecraft that cannot be reached by any other than him."
"Not even you?"
Goetia snorted, Claude blinked in surprise at cynical smile on Goetia's face "Even at the height of my power, I would prove no match for the living Solomon." he shook his head "But no, Solomon possessed more than his Rings. His eyes held the gift of Clairvoyance."
Claude choked on air, widening his own eyes "Clairvoy- he could see the future?"
"And the past." Goetia finished "His sight was almost unparalleled, although competing with Sha Naqbu Imuru is an achievement in itself." he waved his hand "Beyond that, my reasoning for disliking Solomon stemmed from this."
"He could see the future." Claude whispered in an ushered tone, then furrowed his brows "You're sure? He wasn't just saying that as like a boast?"
"Solomon was many things, boastful was not one of them." Goetia shook his head "His personality is closer to my own, or rather, I based my personality off of his."
"Oh, I see the problem." Claude nodded his head "You're a little, no offence, not all there."
"Solomon could see the future, witness all of mankind's acts...and he did nothing." He scowled "In the face of humanity, their endless struggles and desperate attempts to leave their mark on the world he said he accepted them for what they were and left it at that. Making no attempt to better their lives or ease their suffering."
"Well, he could apparently see the future." Claude pointed out "He was probably confident it would all work out in the end."
"The ability to see the future was not…" Goetia cut himself off, looking to the side with narrowed eyes. He exhaled, resting his forehead into his palm "Solomon made it painfully aware that human nature would never change. That he could watch it all and accept it was something that I found...disappointing."
"Hmph." Claude shrugged "Well...I can't really understand the mind of a guy who can literally see the future and was apparently the chosen one of some God." he leaned in "Although you probably shouldn't let the other Clerics hear that, they might call that blasphemy."
"They may call it what they wish, it changes nothing." Goetia sighed "Go, Von Riegan." he turned back to the desk "This conversation has grown...tiresome."
"Hmm…" Claude nodded his head, standing up and pushing his chair back "I can see that, well I'll leave you to it. Maybe we'll talk later."
Goetia remained silent as Claude left the room, his thoughts now going back to Solomon.
He accepted human suffering because he didn't have the freedom to get angry. That was his final confession to Goetia before he erased himself. It made him curious. If Solomon had that freedom, if he hadn't been raised as a King and still possessed his Clairvoyance, would he have made the same choice as him? Or if their roles had been reversed, would he have been victim to the same form of acceptance as Solomon.
His eyebrows furrowed, propping his elbow on the desk and resting his head on his palm, his mind ran through multiple scenarios.
It all came down to a simple question.
If Solomon had the freedom to feel anger, would he have enacted the incineration of humanity? Goetia based his entire personality off the man, he was Solomon if he was never a King. Therefore, the answer should have been obvious.
And yet...he couldn't say with certainty that it was true. He and Solomon shared a personality, and yet there was one crucial difference between the two. Solomon, even if he had the freedom to get angry, was still mortal, while Goetia had been immortal.
Was that where the difference lay?
It was vexing, he thought, that for this one moment he wished Solomon was here. If only to answer the uncertainty in his mind.
The Clerics continued their work around the library, completely ignorant to the turmoil of the Librarian.
"There you are, Claude." Said individual blinked in surprise, turning around and raising an eyebrow as Lysithea approached him "Tch, why is it you only seem to be easy to discover when no one wishes for your presence."
"And a good evening to you too, Lysithea." Claude greeted evenly, the amused smile still present on his face "What can your illustrious House leader do for you this fine-"
"I have a few questions for you." She stopped in front of him, crossing her arms and staring up at him, she then frowned and looked behind him towards the direction he came from "Were you speaking with Teacher?"
"I was." Claude nodded "We had a very enlightening conversation." he chuckled "Raised a lot of interesting questions." he shook his head "Anyway, I don't suppose this relates to him does it?"
"Refrain from harassing Teacher." Lysithea huffed "I know you lack personal boundaries, but that does not mean other people do."
"He didn't make too much of an effort to stop me." Claude countered "He was actually quite revealing too. But you had questions?"
"Yes." She nodded again, then looked around "But not here, its too open." she turned around "We'll speak in the House classroom."
"Alright." Claude shrugged, grinning "You've got me a little intrigued now." he commented as he followed the white haired girl "Not every day I'm dragged off for an interrogation. Usually its the other way around."
"Please, I'm merely following Teachers instructions to quiz you on a certain subject."
"So why don't you ask him about it?"
"Wha-!" Lysithea ground to a halt, whirling around to face Claude "Are you suggesting that I exploit my position as his student to try and interrogate his personal history! That would be over stepping my bounds!"
"...Oh, so its unacceptable for you to drill someone for information, but its alright for me to do it?" Claude asked, tilting his head to the side with an amused expression. Lysithea in response burned bright red with indignation at the insinuation.
"No! Absolutely not!" She stabbed a finger at him "Your penchant for ignoring peoples privacy is still unacceptable behaviour for a student, especially a House leader!"
"But you have no issues with it as long as I know something you also want to know?" Claude grinned, Lysithea made a growling sound and advanced on him, he chuckled and held up his hands in mock surrender "I kid, I kid. I have no problem with telling you something if you really want to know." he grinned, then ruffled her hair "Its kinda funny when you try to act all secretive."
"Don't mock me." She hissed in reply, swatting his hand away from her head "And don't treat me like a child either. I am your magical superior five times over."
"I know." Claude nodded "But I'm not all that interested in Magic to begin with, so its kind of a mute point." he walked past her "But I think we've dawdled long enough, lets hurry along. I'm curious as to what secret you want to have explained."
"Its not a secret!" Lysithea called out, jogging up behind him "Its simply that I don't wish to waste Teachers time by having him explain it to me."
"You just want to waste my time?"
"Please, you aren't doing anything important."
"How do you know? I could have been doing some very important alliance business." Claude grinned at her "It could even have profound impacts on all of Fodlan itself."
"Ha!" Lysithea let out a laugh "I think that's the first joke you've told that's actually amusing. You were more likely to be on your way to eavesdrop on another private conversation for your own amusement."
"When you put it like that, you make me sound like some kind of scoundrel." Claude lamented "Is that really how you view my, Lysithea? As some kind of childish buffoon?"
"Yes." She answered instantly, prompting a snort from the buffoon in question "What's worse is that you are aware of how others perceive you." she huffed, shaking her head "However, that isn't important right now."
Claude shrugged "Well, I can't comment on that, considering you haven't actually told me what this conversation is about."
"I was…" Lysithea bit her lip, coming to a stop just inside the classroom "Curious about an individual that Teacher mentioned."
"Oh?" Claude raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms, a smile forming on his face as he could already see where this was going "Who?"
"He was called Solomon." Lysithea explained "He said you would have more information about the man if I was curious."
"And why didn't you ask him?"
"Teacher seems to…" She cringed "Have his reservations about this person. I did not wish to bring up unpleasant memories."
"But your curiosity won out." Claude surmised "So you sought me out, the only other person who probably knows about this guy."
"...Yes." Lysithea nodded in a quiet voice, Claude chuckled, gesturing over to one of the desks.
"Then you are in luck, my young friend!" He joked as they walked over to the closest desk, sitting down on the benches "Because that is the man I just finished talking to Goetia about, and let me tell you...he said some pretty interesting things about him."
"Like what?" Lysithea asked, not missing a beat, and then blushing at how desperate her voice sounded. Something Claude picked up on if the glint in his eye was any indication.
"Well, let me tell you what our resident mystery man told me about Solomon…"
Edelgard had been troubled since her meeting with Goetia. What had started out as simply a curiosity had quickly bloomed into something which rivalled her interest in the newest Professor.
Everything about Goetia was unusual, his appearance, his mannerisms, even his magic was a mystery to her. Foreigners were rare enough in Fodlan, although most came from Dagda and their culture was already known to the people of Fodlan who were so inclined to show a sliver of interest in it.
Then there were the Almyrans, whose culture was simplistic at best. Although such could be expected from a country of Warriors and supposed barbarians. Cyril was Almyran, although he had virtually been raised in Fodlan culture, so many of the Clerics around the monastery would write him off as being 'civilised' now.
Thus foreign culture that was genuinely unknown was exceedingly rare, even so from someone like Goetia, who had apparently seen more than one foreign culture.
So he was, naturally, something of an interest. He was new, and she was curious how he would compare Fodlan to the others places he had been.
The results of this talk had been, enlightening. In all the ways she had hoped it wouldn't be.
The way he described the Church of Seiros, that had been something she had mixed feelings about.
He had described it as wholly unoriginal and common to other countries he had visited, there was a small part of her that found it incredibly amusing that the love of the Goddess and all the effort the Church had put into spreading their influence across Fodlan was an idea that hadn't even originated from them and, if Goetia was to be believed, similar religions had done something similar long before the Church existed.
The larger part of her, felt that hollow pit in her stomach. Learning that other institutions like the Church existed in other corners of the world meant one thing.
It was likely that similar corruption existed there to. The masses being oppressed by those with power. Blood and birthright deciding the lives people would lead. There could even be others who had suffered at the hands of institutions similar to the Church like her.
That...that was something she didn't want to consider.
Goetia, in a general explanation, had also described the suffering she went through as unoriginal and common.
The idea that she wasn't the only one who could have suffered so greatly, or that the people of Fodlan weren't alone in suffering under corruption, was something that was both horrifying to her and yet unsurprising.
He had said that human nature was predictable.
The terrible thing was, Edelgard could genuinely imagine a similar institution to the Church of Seiros existing somewhere else and propagating a social structure which was designed to keep a select few head and shoulders above all else.
These feelings…
She needed to calm down. Clear her mind of irrelevant thoughts, as horrifying as the idea was of peoples from other countries suffering like those in Fodlan, they weren't the people of Fodlan.
They weren't her people.
She needed to prioritise what was in front of her.
However, if Goetia had seen other systems like those in Fodlan. Then perhaps her own idea wasn't original too.
Perhaps he had seen, or at least heard of, previous revolutions. If that were true...she could at least ask him about the history of other countries and work under the guise of curiosity.
If she could learn about these different systems, she may find an exploitable weakness. And if would limit her reliance on the Agarthans.
Her lip curled in disgust when she thought about them.
Especially the newest member she had met. That one...there was something wrong with him on a level which made her shiver. Far more so than Thales.
The sooner she dealt with the Church, the sooner she could deal with those disgusting things.
The rest of the day had passed like a blur to Goetia. Much of his time had been spent on autopilot. His mind was elsewhere, still trying to solve the riddle of Solomon, to very little success. In the end, despite being so similar, Goetia couldn't understand the King's thought process.
Perhaps he never understood Solomon as well as he thought, then again, he never believed that Solomon could have possessed a wish. Yet he had. Perhaps it was in that moment that Goetia realised that the man he saw Solomon as, and the man Solomon saw himself as, were two different people.
"-cuse me." A voice cut him out of his musing, light returned to his eyes as he brought his attention back to the present. He turned to left, furrowing his brows at the individual who had called for his attention.
"Prince Blaiddyd." Goetia nodded his head to the blonde haired young boy "What can I assist you with?"
"Please, call me Dimitri." The young boy smiled at him "I find it more comfortable."
Goetia shrugged "As you wish. What aid can I provide, young Dimitri?"
"The Professor informed me that she intended to assign two students tomorrow to help you with the library. I was hoping Tomas would be here to discuss a rotor, but he is away, is he not?"
"Gone into Empire territory to collect published papers." Goetia explained "Very well, I shall discuss the timetable with you."
"Thank you." Dimitri nodded "I apologise if I disturbed you, it is just that the Professor wished to prepare in advance so as the students were informed as to what they would be doing and how long they would be doing it."
"Her mercenary mindset no doubt." Goetia surmised "Planning specific roles for key individuals."
"I suspected the same thing." The boy chuckled "She has been quite rigorous in planning...and improvisation."
"'No plan survives first contact with the enemy'"
"I...have not heard that quote before." Dimitri frowned, but eventually nodded his head to the side and gave a small smile "But that does make sense."
"Yes, I found that no amount of planning can account for...random variables." Goetia hinted at in a vague tone, Dimitri watched his eyes briefly stare at something in the distance before the man refocused his attention on him "But yes, it is best we prepare now."
"Of course." Dimitri nodded, following the one armed man to his desk and watched as he withdrew a parchment, floating over a quill and ink pot. "I had heard rumours of your skill, but to see it is something else." he huffed in disbelief "You are quite talented at magic, I have not seen a levitation spell so precise."
Goetia looked over his shoulder at Dimitri "In truth, I myself was somewhat surprised to see that levitation of humans was a simpler craft to learn here than where I originated."
Dimitri blinked "Is it perhaps more complicated where you are from?"
"Any talented magus can levitate small objects, provided they have the affinity for it." Goetia explained "However, to levitate a person or even oneself is a far more complicated procedure."
"Hmph." Dimitri hummed "I admit, I am do not have a good affinity for magic unlike Mercedes." Dimitri explained, then mulled something over in his head "I have a request for you-"
"You wish for me to also tutor this classmate of yours?" Goetia interrupted him.
Dimitri cringed "Am I truly so obvious?"
"It was not the unexpected outcome, I have recently found myself the tutor of several individuals, your professor included."
"Yes, in truth that is why I wished to ask you about it myself." Dimitri explained "The Professor had explained it to us, and well…" Dimitri looked somewhat sheepish "I thought it would do Mercedes some good to have the opportunity to learn form a talented caster of magic like yourself."
"Mercedes…" Goetia mulled over the name before it came to him "She is the daughter of the Merchant and holder of the Crest of Lamine."
Dimitri blinked in surprise "You...are aware of that?"
"I am currently researching Crests." Goetia explained "I made it a point to identify current holders, as well as familiarise myself with the students of the academy."
"That is rather proactive of you." Dimitri nodded his head "Certainly methodical."
"The Crest of Lamine allows for the conserved casting of recovery magic." Goetia went on, more for himself "She would be more skilled as a healer…" he furrowed his brows in thought before he nodded to himself "I am currently tutoring in Runecraft, Young Mercedes would lack the affinity for such craft."
"Ah…" Dimitri sighed, looking somewhat crestfallen "So it is-"
"Therefore she would need to be tutored in other forms of Magecraft." Goetia cut him off, Dimitri blinked, tilting his head.
"You will tutor her?"
"If she asks me." Goetia shrugged "Should she display and interest, I will teach her. Besides, it is best to introduce the students to other forms of magecraft beyond Runes."
"I thank you." Dimitri nodded his head.
"I have done nothing to be grateful for yet." Goetia replied with a frown "She has yet to approach me and I have yet to teach her. Only when her training bears fruit would gratitude be expected."
Dimitri chuckled and shook his head "I suppose that is true. But nevertheless. I thank you for giving her the opportunity."
"Hmph." Goetia hummed, turning around "Now then, we were to discuss the timetable?"
"Of course, my apologies for getting side tracked."
AN: More Magecraft beyond Runes, Goetia talking about Solomon and getting sad. Edelgard being concerned about their conversation and finally Lysithea learns of Solomon.
But yet, as far as Healing Magecraft goes, I am literally going to pull this part out of my ass.
Why? Because it isn't explored, to my knowledge, to greatly in the Fate Lore.
I know about Kotomine spiritual healing but that is horrifyingly painful for the recipient of his 'treatment'. So I can't really imagine Mercedes doing that.
So...I'll think of something.
But anyway…
Through popular demand, and because I was going to do it anyway, we have the next omake!
Omake: Visitors from Home II
For the briefest of moments, the courtyard appeared to fall silent as the four individuals stared at eachother in varying degrees of shock.
Goetia's eyes flickered from Ritsuka to Mash, the lilac haired girl narrowed her own eyes and fidgeted on the spot as those red orbs focused on her with a burning intensity. She could make out disbelief in them.
Then there was Ritsuka, his own shock gradually gave way to rage.
Completely ignorant to the ticking timebomb in front of her, Flayn maintained her smile as her head looked between the four people.
"Are they friends of yours, Goetia?" She asked, somewhat excited "This is most wonderful, we haven't had anyone else from his home visit us before." she bowed to the three, who blinked in shock at her genuine pleasure to see them "Welcome to the Monastery, I do hope you enjoy your time here."
"Flayn." Goetia spoke up, still looking at the three in front of him "You have collected your gift for your brother?"
"Yes." She grinned, holding up her prize "I got him a letter opener!"
"I'm sure he shall be pleased." He replied, eyes flicking between Ritsuka, Mash and...Was that Da Vinci? When did she get so small? He dismissed that thought "You may return to him, I have something to discuss with my...acquaintances."
"Are you sure?" She slumped her shoulders "I wouldn't mind showing them on a tour."
"...Perhaps at another time." He gave her a sideways glance "For the moment there are topics to discuss."
"Very well." She sighed, walking past them, not before flashing them a grin "I do hope we see eachother again!" and then running off.
"You-" Ritsuka made to speak, however Goetia closed the distance between the two of them in an instant, Mash readied her shield, glaring at him while Da Vinci tightened her grip on her staff, the top glowing.
"Think very carefully about where you are right now." Goetia spoke in a hushed tone, glaring into the Masters eyes "Any violent altercation with me right now will involve the innocent humans of this market."
"Hiding behind people?" Ritsuka gave a cynical smirk "I assume you aren't quite as strong as before?"
"I don't need to have the domain of Solomon or the Demon Pillars to incinerate your head right now." He countered, his own voice dripping with venom "And without you to act as an anchor, neither Mash not Da Vinci behind you will be able to remain in this world."
"So why haven't you?" Da Vinci asked from behind Ritsuka, her eyes narrowed.
Goetia's eyes flickered over Ritsuka's shoulder and towards the small Caster "Because right now that doesn't interest me...and I would have to explain my sudden murder of three individuals to the Church superiors."
Ritsuka blinked, his anger giving way to incredulity "Did...did you just say you can't kill us because you would get in trouble?"
"Trouble? Hardly." Goetia scoffed "An inconvenience as best, but one that I would rather avoid all the same." he backed away from him "We should speak elsewhere, there are too many witnesses."
"And you want me to just follow you?" Ritsuka raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms "Are you serious?"
"Perhaps you wish to discuss our past where others could overhear then?"
"...Fine." Ritsuka huffed, then stabbed a finger towards the Beast "But Mash stays next to you, any sudden moves-"
"I am aware of her capabilities." He cut him off with a dry look, finally turning his attention back to Mash "Your survival was...unexpected, Mash Kyrielight."
The lilac girl narrowed her eyes "I had help from someone special."
"Wh-…" He cut himself off, allowing the tiniest smile to form on his face "Primate Murder no doubt. It would appear the Beast of Murder grew fond of you." he sighed, shaking his head "Another time, perhaps. Follow me."
He walked past them, Ritsuka and Mash held a silent conversation between their eyes before they followed after him, Da Vinci trailing behind as the former Beast led them through the Monastery.
"So, how long have you been here?" Da Vinci asked.
"Some time." Goetia admitted "Longer than you I assume." he frowned "Your presence is confusing to me, this is not a Lostbelt and you had no way of navigating your way here...unless you were a victim of the Second Magic."
"Why?" Ritsuka asked "Looking for a way back?"
"...No." Goetia replied after a few minutes, his answer catching the Master off guard "Not anymore."
Ritsuka frowned "Enacting your plan here?"
Goetia stopped, turning around and fixing Ritsuka with a glare "My plan relied on very precise conditions. None of which are available to me right now. So no. Fujimaru Ritsuka. I have no interest in it." he turned around and resumed walking.
Ritsuka noted on their journey how several people waved at Goetia, their faces showing genuine happiness at seeing the Beast. Perhaps what was more surprising was that Goetia actually nodded back to some of them.
"In here." Goetia ushered them into the room, Ritsuka raised an eyebrow at their new location "The students are away on lessons right now and the Clerics are in sermon. The library will remain empty long enough for our conversation."
"How come you even have a key for this place?" Ritsuka asked, raising an eyebrow.
"It is expected of Assistant Librarians to have a key to the Library, how else would I do my job."
"Pfft!" Da Vinci snorted, holding her hand in front of her mouth "I-I'm sorry, Assistant Librarian?"
"Yes."
"...You have a job as a Librarian?"
"I do."
"As in you tend to books, listen to student demands and then get a salary."
"Indeed."
"And after getting paid, you go down to the market and buy vegetables and meat?"
"I live at the Monastery, food is provided to staff, although I still earn a wage."
"So…" Ritsuka bit his lip, looking like he was holding in a laugh of his own "So your diet consists of free school dinners?"
"I really do not see how this is relevant."
Ritsuka and Da Vinci shared a look before they both burst into laughter, the former gripping his stomach and looking like he was going to fall over.
Mash had the decency to look somewhat sheepish, although she had a small smile on her face as well. Goetia gave the laughing duo a flat look before he turned to the shielder.
"I see that his personality remains much the same."
"Senpai is…" Mash searched for the right word "Senpai has a specific brand of humour." she explained "I think he was surprised to find you here...eating Cafeteria food."
"Is there some issue with Tomato soup I was not aware of?" He asked with genuine confusion.
This only seemed to spur Ritsuka and Da Vinci to laugh harder, the latter actually falling over as she struggled to breath.
"Senpai, Da Vinci…" Mash chided them, now looking somewhat annoyed "We have something more important to talk about than Goetia's diet."
"Hahaha...haha...haaa…" Ritsuka panted, wiping a tear from his eye and nodding his head "Right, right…" he shook his head, turning back to Goetia with a serious expression "How are you here?"
"Following my defeat at your hands I found myself in this land, Fodlan." Goetia explained "With no purpose I proceeded along my original function."
"You observed them." Da Vinci surmised "That was what Rom-...Solomon created you for to being with, to observe humanity."
"I had little else to drive me." Goetia shrugged "I proceeded along that task, observing the culture of this land and its inhabitants."
"And?"
"And they were exactly as I expected them to be." He replied "They were disappointing. The same issues present even in this new world."
Da Vinci narrowed her eyes "You sound less angry about that."
"...Perhaps I am." He muttered "I...viewed this as a chance."
"A chance?" Ritsuka asked, furrowing his brows "A chance for what?"
"To live." Goetia simply replied, causing all three of them to widen their eyes, he raised his left hand in front of his face "As the King of Demon Gods, I was immortal. My sight and strength exceeded all others. I had complete faith in my mission and my will to succeed." he clenched his fist "Until you…"
"Don't expect an apology." Ritsuka scoffed.
"I wasn't asking for one." The Beast replied "In truth...I am nothing like what I was in the temple. I am...human...for all intents and purposes."
"What do that have to do with wanting to live?" Ritsuka asked "You are now one of those humans you pity so much."
"I am…" Goetia admitted "And yet...I have never been closer to my answer than right now. As a human...I finally have the opportunity to see what it was that made you all reject what I offered." he locked eyes with Ritsuka "I find myself staring at the world from your perspective. I have a limited, mortal life. That desperate wish you held." he turned to Mash "That you died for. That Solomon wanted...I have the opportunity to see why is was you all valued it so greatly."
Mash stepped forwards, tilting her head to the side "You want to live in the present...To experience something new, even if you will eventually die."
"...Perhaps." Goetia shrugged, staring at her, Mash noticed how his gaze softened when he looked at her "All I want it to understand...I want to know why you rejected me."
The sound of a gasp and something being dropped brought their attention to the far end of the Library.
A white haired girl with purple highlights was staring at them in surprise, books on the floor from having been dropped.
"Uhhh…" Ritsuka dumbly put, however the girl moved before anyone else could.
Stabbing a finger towards Mash, eyes still wide in shock "You rejected the courtship of Teacher!?"
"...Eh?" Mash blinked.
"Lysithea…" Goetia raised his hand to correct the mistake, however the girl had stalked forwards before he could.
"Why!" Lysithea huffed, waving an arm at the orange haired man "Is it because he's got one arm!? Can't you see how talented, caring and intelligent he is!?"
"Umm…" Ritsuka raised his hand "Just out of curiosity, who are you?"
"I am Lysithea Von Ordelia!" The girl huffed, spinning around to face him and planting her hands on her hips "And I am the first and foremost apprentice of my Teacher Goetia. Who are you?" she narrowed her eyes.
Ritsuka stared at her for a few moments before he turned towards Goetia, raising a single eyebrow "Teacher, huh?"
"...I was curious." Goetia shrugged "And she asked."
"Courtship…" Mash parroted the word, her eyes losing their light and slumping her shoulders.
"Yeesh." Da Vinci huffed "The tail end of that conversation made Mash sound like a jilted Ex."
Ritsuka cringed while Mash released a pathetic whimper.
Chapter 15: Field Trip
"And these will need to be moved to the revisionist section." Tomas instructed Goetia as the Cleric assisting the older man set down the box of parchments, the head Librarian having recently returned from his trip to the Imperial Capital with the newly released papers.
"Understood." Goetia nodded "Pre Church split or after?"
"After."
"I will see to i-"
"Goetia." Seteth's voice called out through the Library, the focus of the attention turned towards the entrance, the green haired man striding into the Library with a serious expression on his face.
"Seteth." Goetia answered back with a small nod of his head "I had not been expecting a visit from you."
"I had not been expecting to be placed in a position to visit you either." The green haired man sighed "We received word from the town of Riverside. They claim the Demonic Beasts crossed the threshold of acceptable distance to the town as of a day ago. The Golden Deer house is leaving within the hour."
Goetia turned his attention to Tomas "Apologies, it seems I will be unavailable to aid you."
Tomas waved him off, a casual smile on his face, as obviously false to the Beast as the disguise he wore "It is no trouble Young Goetia, I will enlist the help of some of the Clerics to aid me." he nodded over to Seteth "You are free to join them."
Goetia nodded his head, turning back to Seteth "Where am I to rendezvous?"
"The entrance to the Monastery, do not be late." Seteth informed him "And remember my request, should Professor Manuela request it-"
"I shall provide assistance if I am needed." Goetia cut him off, Seteth stared at him for a few moments before nodding his head.
"That is all I ask." He relaxed his shoulders "I will keep you no longer."
Goetia moved past him, striding towards the entrance to the Library before Seteth called out to him again "A final word of warning, Demonic Beasts are not to be underestimated."
"I will keep that in mind." Were his parting words as he left the Library, making he way towards his own room.
He pushed the door open, revealing the interior of his assigned room before closing it behind him. He had only just begun to set up his workshop, the sad fact was that he actually required his monthly wage before he could afford to purchase the equipment necessary for more precise work.
As it stood, he had been able to scrap together enough material for a preliminary analysis on anything he wanted, provided it lacked complexity to it. He had envisaged the Demonic Beasts being simply phantasmals of some variety, thus they fell into the category of simple enough that his equipment on hand would be more than enough to accurately detail minute parts of their biology and Mystery.
He quickly packed the materials he needed into a bag, and then slung it over his shoulder. Tubes, knives and tubs for transporting samples for further testing. Most of which had been enchanted to serve their purpose better, the tubs having the ability to preserve the samples within them.
He turned around and quickly left his room, shutting the door behind him and departing for the entrance to the Monastery.
"Hm?" He then came across Dimitri, the young boy sent him a surprised glance "Goetia? You are leaving somewhere?"
"I am departing with the Golden Deer for their monthly mission."
"What a coincidence." The boy exclaimed "I myself had just heard that their departure was occurring earlier than expected and went to wish Claude good fortune."
"Von Riegan seems to have a surplus of good fortune." Goetia remarked, causing Dimitri to let out a good natured chuckle as he fell in step with the tanned man.
"You might be right there, Claude always seems to have a luck to match his scheming." He paused "Perhaps scheming is the wrong word, that makes it sound as if he is doing something unscrupulous."
"Von Riegan has the curiosity of a child and the lack of boundaries to match it." Goetia explained "That has been my current, albeit limited, assessment of his person." he frowned "However, that does not detract from his intelligence."
"I suppose it does not." Dimitri affirmed "He has a habit of being smarter than he lets on."
"That is his prerogative." The one armed man gave a non-committal reply "How he chooses to be perceived by his classmates and rivals is up to him." he sent Dimitri a look "Regardless, I will admit I was not expecting you to wish him good fortune."
"How so?" Dimitri frowned "We are not enemies."
"No, but you are rivals." Goetia elaborated "I typically find that humans avoid wishing good fortune on those they compete with."
Dimitri shook his head "Perhaps that is true in spars or mock battles, but Claude is working towards aiding the citizens of the a town within Kingdom territory." he explained "He is in very real danger, it would be remiss of me to not only wish him luck to win against the Demonic Beasts, but also to safeguard the commoners living there."
Goetia hummed in acknowledgement "Your argument is logical. It is admittedly best for the future leaders of the differing factions of Fodlan to build a more positive repertoire."
Dimitri chuckled "You are quite right, it would be better for the leaders to be on friendly terms with eachother. Aid in strengthening Fodlan as a whole."
"True." Goetia admitted "However, I would advise you do not trust all of Von Riegan's words."
"...Goetia." Dimitri regarded him seriously "I said I approved of building positive relations. That does not mean I shall believe everything that Claude tells me, he is very...selective with his words."
"He does not tell an outright lie."
"He does not." Dimitri nodded his head "But I have found, that he never tells the complete truth either."
The pair came to the entrance of the Monastery, the other Golden Deer already assembled near their horses, most wearing simple leather armour, save for Lysithea who wore a brown robe somewhat reminiscent of Goetia's own.
Claude turned around, as if sensing their arrival before raising an eyebrow at them, walking away from the rest of his classmates towards them "Well, here's a combination I never expected to see." he sent Goetia a sly grin "If I didn't know any better, I'd say you were two timing on your favourite class."
"Claude." Dimitri sighed "Must you make things awkward? I only came to wish you good fortune in your monthly mission."
"Hey." Claude shrugged, gesturing to himself "Good fortune is my middle name."
"I'm sure." Dimitri chuckled "Still, I only ask that you be careful, Demonic Beasts are nothing to sneer at and if half the stories I've heard about them from the knights back in the Kingdom are true-"
"Don't worry, I wasn't planning on trading punches with a wolf larger than a horse." Claude snorted "Besides." he threw a thumb in Goetia's direction "We have Lysithea's tutor here, how much trouble could be really be in?"
"I am only to intervene should Manuela ask." Goetia pointed out "And I suspect she will only do so if we are placed in a position where the knights are no longer enough to ensure your safety. That should motivate you to remain cautious."
"Well, when you put it like that…" Claude muttered under his breath, then gave a carefree shrug "Still, I'm confident our class can get it done."
"Be careful this is not overconfidence Claude." Dimitri replied with a frown "I would be saddened to hear that you were injured in this mission."
"Don't worry your highness, we'll be careful."
"I have already asked that you call me Dimitri."
"You have, but I've gotten into a habit of calling you 'your highness' already." He shrugged and gave a wry grin "Could be worse, could be sparkles."
"...Sparkles?" Dimitri blinked, furrowing his brow "What do you mean sparkl-…" he cut himself off and then trailed his eyes to the side, pointedly looking at Goetia's hair before shooting Claude a particularly scathing look "Claude, that is most unbecoming behaviour and quite insulting too."
The House leader shrugged "He doesn't seem to mind."
"That does not give you free reign to just-"
"Sparkles!?" Lysithea's voice cried out behind Claude, causing the boy to jolt in surprise and send a glance over his shoulder to see the white haired girl stalk towards him with a particularly heated glare "You call my teacher such a childish nickname!?"
"Are you jealous you can't give him a nickname?" Claude joked, only causing Lysithea's glare to intensify.
"Of all the-" She growled, then turned to Goetia and composed her expression "I apologise on behalf of my House Leader, Teacher. His attitude towards you is highly disrespectful."
Goetia raised an eyebrow at them "I am not personally insulted by the title, if Von Riegan wishes to refer to me with immature titles, he is free to do so."
"...Why do I feel insulted in a runabout sort of way?" Claude asked himself, shaking his head "Anyway, you're actually the first semi professional here. Professor Manuela sent us off before her to gather at the gate."
Goetia shrugged "She likely wishes to dress herself in more appropriate hiking cloths."
"You're probably right on that front." He raised an eyebrow, looking behind the tanned man before his face grew a sly smile "Huh, looks like I'm not the only one getting visitors from the Blue Lions…" he grinned.
Goetia creased his eyebrows and turned around, only to see Byleth descending down the stairs towards them, a passive expression on her face being completely offset by the small frown on the Goddess floating over her shoulder. Although considering only Goetia and Byleth could see the Spirit, it was hardly a concern.
"Professor?" Dimitri blinked, turning to give the woman his full attention "Are you also here to wish the Golden Deer luck on their mission?"
"...Yes." She responded, after a split second look as if she were a deer caught in the cross hairs of a hunter. She then gave Goetia her full attention "...Good luck."
"Pfft!" Claude snorted, covering his mouth with his hand and turning away, Dimitri stared at Byleth and then at Goetia before he pinched his brow, shaking his head with a slightly amused smile dancing on his face.
"Indeed." Goetia nodded "Although I myself am not expecting to engage in confrontation with the phantasmals."
"Still, best to be prepared." Byleth replied "Missions can always take an unexpected turn."
"Hmph." Goetia grunted, although he did nod to her "That is true, at the very least I have already prepared myself for the possible confrontation of Phantasmal beasts."
"Good." Byleth nodded. The two stared at eachother for several seconds in complete silence, the peanut gallery that was Claude and Dimitri kept looking between the two of them, the former looking like he was moments away from bursting into laughter and the latter seemingly suffering from second hand embarrassment.
"This conversation is dreadful." Sothis moaned, sending the two scathing looks "Honestly, I dare say that the pair of you might be the worst conversationalists here."
Goetia suppressed a reaction, while he wasn't accustomed to human idioms, he was confident that holding a conversation with a spirit which could not be perceived was not considered normal.
"When are you leaving?" Byleth asked, Goetia turned to Claude for the answer, the tanned boy took that as his cue to try and liven up the conversation.
"Oh, as soon as Professor Manuela arrives." He gave a non-committal answer, then looked up at the sun trying to guess the time "Which should be...Soon. Probably."
"Ah." Byleth made a small noise "I see."
Claude leaned towards Lysithea, whispering to her "Do something."
"Do something?" She whispered back "What do you mean 'Do something?' what do you expect me to do?"
"Anything. Try and liven up the conversation."
"Me?" She look scandalised "Why me? And why does their conversation need to be livened up?"
"The ten elites have more life in them than this chat!" Claude whisper shouted "You're his student, try and get them to talk about something a little more...lively!"
"Their conversation is proceeding at its own pace." Lysithea narrowed her eyes "Not everyone needs to rush their talks like you Claude. Teacher is perfectly capable of communing with another of his students."
Claude stared at her for a few moments before he looked over to Dimitri "You do something."
"Me?" The blonde blinked "Claude, I am sure that the Professor and Goetia are fully capable of providing their own topics for discussion."
"Your highness...She came to wish him luck and now they are just staring at eachother." He raised his hands "Now as amazing as Sparkles and Teach might be...I doubt they are capable of talking through their minds."
"Claude, you give them far too little credit, I'm sure they will speak when they are comfortable."
"Do they know we can hear them?" Byleth asked the man in front of her, eyes briefly flickering over to the three students huddled around eachother whispering about their lack of conversation.
"Unlikely." Goetia replied.
"Oh."
"...They are also right." Sothis sighed "You two are awful at this, I've been asleep for as long as I can remember and am only being capable of being seen by you two and I could hold a better conversation than this." she shook her head "Honestly, perhaps I was right. You truly are less than a children, the pair of you."
"Alright, Deers." Manuela's voice called out as the woman descended down the stairs, Goetia turned his attention in her direction and maintained his look of disappointment as she was, in fact, still in her teaching outfit.
Poor clothing for field work, then again, he was wearing a mundane robe with little in the way of protection.
Perhaps he needed more clothes. Something to make a note of in the future perhaps.
"Oh?" Manuela paused when she saw Dimitri and Byleth, tilting her head slightly and giving an intrigued look "Come to see us off Professor?"
"Yes." Byleth nodded, then turned back to Goetia. Several emotions went through her eyes, her usually impassive expression creased ever so slightly before she eventually settled on the right words to use "...Be careful."
Goetia raised an eyebrow at her statement before he nodded his head "I suspect little shall complicate this. Still, your concern is…" his expression virtually mirrored her own a few moments ago "...Acknowledged."
"Mmm." She nodded, then turned to Dimitri "You need to remain?"
"No Professor." Dimitri snapped to attention, his expression changing from minor amusement to a polite one in a second "I merely came to wish Claude luck." he turned back to his Golden Deer counterpart "On that front...Good luck."
"Please, do you really think that I, of all people, would need luck?" He chuckled.
"I'm not so sure Claude…" Dimitri shook his head, giving a wry smile "I seem to recall our first encounter with Goetia involving him saving you from an untimely demise."
"...Damn." Claude clicked his tongue playfully "One time thing. Promise."
"I'm sure." Dimitri smiled, turning away and giving him a wave as he departed.
Byleth gave Goetia another fleeting glance and a nod before she departed after the House Leader, Sothis remained for a few moments before she sighed.
"Well, I won't wish you good luck, because I suspect you don't need it." She shrugged "But I would rather that you did not perish until I have figured out what makes you special." she narrowed her eyes "So don't do something stupid like die."
Goetia grunted, turning around, completely missing Sothis stick her tongue out at him before she was dragged away by her link to Byleth. The tanned man turned to see Claude and Manuela grinning at him in amusement while Lysithea merely had a raised eyebrow.
"...What?" He tilted his head, frowning as he did so.
"Oh, nothing." Claude said in a sweet voice, waving his hand "Just nice to see that the new professor is so concerned about her colleagues."
"Indeed." Manuela chuckled "Seeing our newest and youngest staff members express concern for eachothers well-being is always wonderful to see."
Lysithea huffed, rolling her eyes "Honestly, I am far from being surprised that I am the most mature one here." she strolled forwards and grabbed Goetia's wrist, leading him away from the pair and towards the rest of the assembled students "Come on Teacher, I'll help you set up with your horse."
"...She's jealous." Claude coughed into his hand, Manuela snorted in response.
"Still, to think something like this could happen so quickly."
"Well, who's to say what's happening." Claude shrugged "Teach could just very well be wishing him good luck." he nodded "...Bet she makes the first move."
"Claude Von Riegan." Manuela admonished "Are you suggesting that I, a renowned professor, would participate in childish gossip involving the potential love life of my newest colleagues?"
"Of course not Professor." Claude chuckled "Just stating a possibility. They seemed awfully friendly."
"Hmph." Manuela shook her head "Go and see to your House, I have a few more things to discuss with the knights."
"Oh? Trying to get another hot date?"
"Now Claude."
"Have you ever ridden a horse before, Teacher?"
"No." Lysithea stumbled, cringing slightly and turning back to him.
"Ah...D-don't worry about it." She placed her hands on her hips and nodded her head "It is simple once you get used to it. I dare say it would be childs play for someone like you."
"Where is Marianne?" He looked around, then found the blue haired girl. Lysithea blinked as he strolled away from her and towards her more reclusive classmate.
"There you are Dorte." Marianne cooed while stroking the horses chin "That feels better doesn't it?"
"Young Edmund." A voice called out behind her, causing her to jolt slightly and turn around. Then found herself under the blank gaze of Goetia.
"Mr...um…"
"Goetia." He supplied "I require assistance."
"Assistance?" She froze, eyes widening "O-oh no, I don't think I can do much to hel-"
"I have never ridden a horse." He cut her off "Given your affinity towards animals, it would be prudent that I sought your aid." he tilted his head "This is not mandatory, it is simply the easiest process."
"...You want help...to ride a horse?" She blinked several times, then drew her arms into her chest, looking away "I...I don't think I can help you that much…"
"What?" Lysithea blinked incredulously as she came up next to Goetia "Of course you can, I've only known you a few weeks and I've yet to see anyone come close to caring for the animals as good as you." she frowned "Is it because you don't like Teacher or something?"
Marianne widened her eyes at the insinuation, sputtering and gaping like a fish as she looked between the two of them "N-no! No! That's not it!" she looked somewhat downcast "Its just that, learning how to ride a horse takes a while and isn't really something that can be learned quickly…"
"Understandable." Goetia nodded, then looked around "In truth, I would need only instructions, then I would do the rest."
"Well I…" Marianne bit her lip before closing her eyes and nodding to herself "Well, I suppose I could show you, if only so both you and the horse don't get hurt." she turned back to the horse she'd been speaking to "I'll be back in a moment, Dorte."
The horse neighed in response.
"Make sure to position yourself evenly." Marianne instructed as Goetia stood to her side "She doesn't like loud noises or sudden moves, so its important that you're there to calm her down."
"Her name?"
"Hm?" Marianne blinked, turning to him in surprise before she gave the barest hints of a smile "Her name is Ilse."
"Very well." He looked back at the horse, removing his bag from his shoulder and hanging it from the saddle.
"Do you need help getting up?" Marianne asked, Goetia paused, staring at her for barely a second before turning back to the animal.
"I shall be fine." He replied, then floated up, turning his body and then floating back down, sitting perfectly on the saddle and gripping the reins with his hand. He looked down at Marianne "Your assistance is...acknowledged."
"Your welcome." Marianne nodded, then looked back at Ilse "Just remember to take care of her." she moved to turn around when Goetia called out to her again.
"Your talent at communing with animals shows promise." She blinked, turning back to him "I would suggest improving it."
"Oh, I can't do something like that." Marianne shook her head, a look of self-depreciation on her face "I'm good for taking care of their needs but that's it."
"...If you say so." Goetia hummed "It is your choice." his face changed into a thoughtful expression before he looked back at her "Do you believe you could commune with the Demonic Beasts?"
"Oh no." She shook her head "I'm not good for something like that, they're a lot more complicated than Dorte." she bowed her head again, backing away "I'll leave you now."
"Hm." He frowned as he watched her leave, a complete lack of self-esteem. Certainly hamper her ability at being useful at anything.
He sighed, still that was not his concern. Not truly, it was up to the likes of Claude to break her out of that personal problem, besides.
He knew he wasn't exactly an expert at social interactions.
"Teacher." Lysithea called out to him as she rode her horse up next to him "How did it go? Are you alright? Do you need more help?"
"I am fine." He replied "I Young Edmund's advice has been noted and I intend to follow it." he looked over to see the other students already gathering at the main gate "Come, we should make haste." he looked down at the horse "Let us depart, Ilse."
The horse let out a soft whine before she began trotting along towards the rest of the students, leaving Lysithea blinking before she smiled and followed after him.
"-nd remember." Manuela's voice got louder as they approached "The Knights, myself and Goetia are only there for an emergency. Should the situation arise, we shall step in and assist you."
"How bad does the situation need to get?" Ignatz asked with a slightly nervous expression.
"If it becomes apparent that you are in danger, or should I decide the situation has escalated beyond control." Manuela replied "We are only expecting one or two Demonic Beasts, should more emerge, then the Knights and myself shall provide a more active role."
"Don't worry, Ignatz." Rafael grinned, reaching over and slapping the boy roughly on the back "We're gonna be just fine. Especially after all the training I put us through!"
"Ha...haha...yeah…" The lime green haired boy winced, rubbing his shoulder with a still awkward expression.
"Still...Demonic Beasts?" Hilda huffed "Why couldn't it have been something easy like the Black Eagles, they get to escort some merchants."
"It is the role of the Noble to protect the commoners no matter what danger they may face, Hilda." Lorenz replied to her in a pompous voice "Besides, I very doubt we have much to fear from mere animals."
"Hrrrgggghhh…" Hilda released an annoyed groan and slumped her shoulders, then looked around before her eyes landed on Goetia, her expression brightening as she trotted her horse over to him "Hey! You still haven't talked to me about your hair yet!" she frowned "I was being serious about that offer to style your hair...unless…" she paused, then grinned, leaning forwards "Are you shy around pretty girls?"
Goetia closed his eyes, taking in a deep breath before he opened them again "I see little reason to affix my hair in any capacity."
"Sure?" She frowned "I think it would look quite nice in a pony tail." she looked him over with a thoughtful expression, then cupped her chin "Actually, I think you would also suit a braid too, like that girl from Brigid has."
Goetia's mind flashed back to a man with white braided hair.
"Absolutely not." He replied with a slight edge, taking Hilda off guard before she shrugged.
"Alright, you're hair I suppose." She sighed "Still, I'll think of something...what about twin tails?"
"Are you harassing Teacher?" Lysithea hissed over "We're supposed to be paying attention to the-"
"And with that, let us depart." Manuela cut her off, turning her horse around and trotting through the gate "It is a day long trip to Riverside, fortunately for us the roads into Charon territory are well travelled."
"Ilse." Goetia called the horses name, moving past Lysithea and Hilda and towards the gate as the other students departed.
AN: Okay, maybe not an action packed Chapter yet, but we are out into the open and into the countryside.
Meaning Goetia is going to have a look at some Demonic Beasts and do minor tests on them...and considering how Demonic Beasts are basically animals absorbing mana through Crest stones...yeah, he'll probably pick up on that.
Anyway...We're away!
Also the omake this time will not be a continuation of the last one, but the 'Visitors from Home' will be intermittently updated.
Along with the 'Back Home again' for reasons you shall soon see.
Omake: Back Home again
The pillar of light shot up in the summoning room, Ritsuka raised his hand to cover his eyes slightly before lowering it.
His last few summons had been a little weird, he wasn't expecting people from across the Kaleidoscope or whatever Doctor Roman called it to show up, what was that land called again? Fodlan?
But he wasn't going to complain, from what Caster, Archer and Saber had told him it was actually pretty cool. Like something out of a fantasy novel or game!
The pillar died down, revealing a man with tanned skin, long glittery golden hair, weirdly familiar features and clad in a simple brown robe appeared on the platform.
"Servant, Caster." The man spoke up "I am…" he trailed off as he looked down at Ritsuka, the boy squirming under the sudden intensity of his red eyes, then they trailed behind him, widening as they found Mash before he settled into a more composed expression. "Hmm...I see." he nodded to himself, stepping off the platform "To think it would be an event like this…" he muttered to himself before shaking his head "I...shall keep my true name hidden for now. Refer to me as Caster."
"Really?" Ritsuka blinked "We don't judge that much." shaking his head "We have Gilles de Rais and Jeanne Alter helping us, if you're concerned about how you would be perceived-"
"All the same." Caster cut him off, expression still blank, although he noticed it appeared strained.
Ritsuka shrugged, then smiled "Alright, pleasure to meet you Caster." he extended out a hand to the servant, the paled when he saw he was trying to shake the servants right hand,
Which didn't exist.
"…"
"…"
"...I am so-"
"Its fine." He huffed, moving past him "This is Chaldea?" the doors opened and he moved through "How qu-"
"Ah, Fujimaru? You summoned a new…" Doctor Roman trailed off as he came face to face with Caster.
Caster stared at him with an indiscernible expression.
"Huh…" Ritsuka stepped forwards, looking between the two before he snapped his fingers "Thats what it was, we have loads of Saber faces and now we have our first Romani face." he grinned, patting the doctor on the back "Congratulations."
"Y-yeah…" Romani nodded, slightly pale, then extended his right hand to the servant "I'm Doctor Romani Archaman, acting Director of Chaldea."
"...Caster." He stared down at Romani's hand for a few moments before he tentatively reached out and shook it.
"So…" Ritsuka coughed "Where are you from?"
"...Fodlan."
"Really?" Ritsuka beamed "That's weird, we've got a few other servants from there as well."
"...Oh?" He turned to Ritsuka raised an eyebrow "Classes?"
"Well, we have a Caster, a Saber and an Archer."
"...Lysithea, Von Riegan and Byleth?"
"...Yes...You knew them?"
"We've met." He sighed "Take me to them, I suspect we have much to discuss."
"Alright." Rituska shrugged "Come on, I think they are in the cafeteria now."
"Its rune magic lass." Cu shrugged "And I'm telling you, if you run into my teacher, you'll be in for hell." he cringed "Especially with those Primordial runes you keep slinging about."
"And I shall not be intimidated by your teacher." Lysithea replied with a huff "I am a trained Caster and Runecrafter. I am not some scared little girl."
"...I'm a demi-god and, not one to boast here, master spearmen and I'm scared of her." He chuckled nervously "But hey...its your funeral."
"I don't know Lysithea." Claude chuckled "I think we should listen to the half-god. If he's scared of someone…"
"This guys smart." Cu pointed at the Archer "He knows when to put on a brave face, and when to shit yourself."
"...Thats a tactic?" Byleth asked, titling her head.
"Of course its not a tactic you dunce!" Sothis threw her arms up "What kind of barbarian would do that!?"
"...Oh."
Sothis rolled her eyes "Honestly, what would you do without me…" she trailed off, eyes narrowing "Wait a moment...I sense a presence...a presence I haven't felt since." her eyes snapped over to the edge of the cafeteria as the doors opened.
As she had suspected, Goetia strolled in behind their Master. Although she very much doubted that Ritsuka knew the nature of the one behind him.
Especially considering their current situation with the singularities.
"Hey, Lysithea!" Ritsuka called out, the white haired girl turned to him "We got another guy from-"
"Teacher!" Lysithea gaped, shooting to her feet and virtually tripping out of her chair as she darted towards him "I knew you would arrive."
"Yeah…" Claude chuckled, shaking his head as he approached the man "I knew you would to."
"Hm." Caster grunted, then shook his head "Have you spoken of me to them?"
"Only in passing." Claude replied "...No names."
"Good." He nodded "I am...not revealing my true name. Refer to me as Caster."
"Sparkles it is then." Claude nodded, Ritsuka snorted off to the side, earning a twitch of the eye from Caster.
"Sparkles." Ritsuka let out a quiet chuckle, then looked back at Caster "Can I call you that?"
"No."
"Doing it anyway."
"...Of course you are." He scowled, shaking his head, then looked past them "I see the troublesome Goddess is here as well."
"Yeah." Claude nodded "You never told me you could actually see her as well."
"You never asked."
"How the heck would that ever come up as a conversation topic?"
"You want to continue the tour?" Ritsuka asked Caster, he went to answer before Lysithea cut him off.
"I can show him the rest of the tour!" She virtually cried, Ritsuka blinked at her, then looked at Claude, the man chuckling.
"She gets possessive over her teacher."
"Teacher, huh." Ritsuka nodded, then turned to Caster "You taught her Rune Magic?"
"I did." Caster nodded "And Byleth."
"Yeah...but she only uses it for punching things." He shivered "...Kind of intimidating too."
"Anyway!" Lysithea interrupted, grabbing Casters hand and dragging him away "On with the tour, Teacher! They have the best deserts here!"
"...She really does act like a kid sometimes." Ritsuka chuckled.
Claude nodded "Yeah...specially around him."