Like a Reflection in the Mirror

[crimsonflower]

[A lot had happened during the war, and it was over now. However there still was work to be done. Uniting Fodlan in a more concrete and stable manner is going to be an arduous task, but Edelgard is ready for it. She and Ferdinand did have a small tiff over her plans post war, but it got her thinking what to do before the final battle with Dimitri was won.

The first is continuing to rebuild Garreg Mach. With architects renewing the structure with fresh designs and creating something new. Edelgard hopes for it to become a gathering place where the rulers of the future, who make it there by merit and quality of character, akin to a round table. Nobles who inherited their status simply from birth created a corrupt system that she is to strip bit by bit now that she is in control.

As settling Fodlan is priority, so is making sure those who have tampered with history and stirred the pot for centuries are dealt with. Edelgard divides her most trusted allies into two groups. Group One which will help her with the re-stabilization of Fodlan. Group Two will investigate and effectively hunt down Those Who Slither in the Dark. The plans moving forward are discussed in brief, and each respective group has a leader who will hold their own more extensive meeting on the thorough explanation of their goals and actions going forward.

As for now Edelgard dismisses everybody, but lingers behind in the conference room to gather her papers and the maps used for today's briefing.]

Comments

[scindere]

[ Once delegated their tasks, both groups attending Edelgard's briefing conference file out of the room. Some chatter about their new assignments, whereas others quietly mull the tasks over to themselves. However, one other person other than Edelgard remains behind.

A troubled expression spreads across Felix's face. While he wasn't necessarily uncomfortable with being handed responsibilities, there is something about this particular task that doesn't sit right with him. Even if hunting down Those Who Slither did, essentially, align with his planned goal of becoming a mercenary, he'd never expected Edelgard to entrust him with another task.

Being trusted... it truly was a strange thing. ]

Edelgard, why me?

[ While others might gawk at Felix's flagrant disrespect for titles and formalities, Felix had consciously waited for everyone to file out of the room before addressing Edelgard as such. In the public eye, he behaved himself and addressed her as "Your Majesty". But now, without any prying eyes, it's all free-game to him.

Felix approaches Edelgard, glancing at one of the maps to disguise his confusion. There is no need to provide her another opportunity at seeing how baffled he feels; a Faerghus-born noble, straight from the second-highest ranking noble house of the region, being entrusted with an essential mission of the utmost import by the Adrestian Emperor herself -- it's almost laughable to Felix. ]

Hey, just checking, but you remember it's House Fraldarius blood running through my veins, right?

[ Perhaps it hasn't quite fully set in for Felix the extent that Edelgard intends to do away with Crests and the noble lines of succession, but such is the way of the world when one is taught from a young age what it means, symbolically, to possess a Major Crest of their family line. ]

[crimsonflower]

[Edelgard does not look look up from her papers. Continuing to tidy as she listens to Felix question her decision. She somewhat expected this, and waits for him to finish before replying. Once she's ready she stands straight with an arm full of rolled scrolls and maps.]

Have you not already proven your loyalty? If you were to defect would it not have been long ago? You had many chances. There is also your skill to take into account as well. I was nearly beside myself which group to place you in. Your sharp mind and familiarity with the people of Faerghus would be quite a boon when dealing with stabilizing Fodlan into a united whole. However your prowess on the battlefield is also commendable.

In the end I feel as if you'd be more satisfied where I've placed you. If you wished to be removed now is the time to let me know.

[scindere]

[ She's right; he's had plenty of opportunities to leave. Edelgard had given them all that option after revealing her true plans shortly after the battle in the Holy Tomb. Back then, Felix had chosen to stay, to stay and perhaps have the opportunity to finally lay the boar to rest. He'd raised a blade against his father, his old friends, and even after accomplishing his goal of helping to put Dimitri out of his misery, followed after Edelgard to face the monstrous dragon-Rhea.

Perhaps each step of the way truly had been a show of loyalty to the Adrestian banner. Felix wrinkles his nose at that thought, casting off allegiances to one kingdom in order to take up the banner of another sovereign. It's true, and yet, it doesn't sit well with him just yet. ]

Our goals just overlapped.

[ There's a small twinge in his stomach; he dares not dwell on it for too long, lest he accidentally confirm his worst fears and identify that feeling as guilt or regret. ]

Call it convenience, or whatever you want.

[ Fortunately, Edelgard provides a fresh distraction for his mind. While Felix doesn't sharpen his combat prowess in hopes of hearing praise, it's still nice to have his abilities recognized. But a "sharp mind" and familiarity with the people of Faerghus might not serve him very well, or at least, not anymore. ]

I won't say you're wrong about that. It's true that I probably know way more about Faerghus than you, but you didn't really think the people there would be that happy to see me so soon after the war, did you?

[ There's a hint of an ironic grin on Felix's face. What would the survivors of the bloody conflict think, seeing the one who'd raised a blade against his former allies return with a message of diplomacy instead?

He shakes his head at Edelgard's reassurance that he must speak now if he wished for her to modify his assignment. ]

No, I'll take swinging a blade any day over having to sit through even more meetings. You just point me in the direction of something to whet my blade, and I'll take them out for you. I'd call that a fair exchange, no?

[ Without the war, Felix is deprived of his primary form of mental distraction. Perhaps his new assignment would provide an appropriate substitute. And either way, if the rumors of Those Who Slither helping orchestrate the Tragedy of Duscur was true, then Edelgard might even be serving him the opportunity to mete out revenge against those that triggered the intense bloodlust in his childhood friend, all served up on a silver platter. ]

[crimsonflower]

[How funny it is to hear him say that. If it was as simple as goals aligning then once his was achieved, whatever it was, he could have taken off without a second thought. However he stayed. Even now he stays. Perhaps he found comfort in his new allies. A new home.

Edelgard certainly hopes so. While she and Felix never became close it she considers him one of her Eagles now. Besides, his behavior reminds Edelgard of herself. He's predictable and easy to handle knowing that. Much preferable to the incessant type of presence Ferdinand has.]

Careful now. Talk about taking people out for me may make you sound too much like Hubert.

[The intent to tease is clearly there. It's obvious in her voice and the slight curl of her lips.]

[scindere]

[ The joke isn't lost on Felix. He pulls a face, a scowl at being compared to someone like Hubert. ]

Me? Sounding too much like Hubert? Heh, no need to concern yourself with that. As soon as I start to disagree with whom you tell me to point my blade, I sheathe it.

[ Felix is a simple creature. While content to have plenty of work to do, work that takes advantage of his fighting abilities, it's also imperative for him to feel as though he were acting on his own terms. After all, that was why he'd chosen to break ties with the rest of the Blue Lions to begin with.

Even if Edelgard had taken the first strike, he could not abide with how Dimitri insisted on holding out and causing even more blood to spill over their homeland.

Still in a bit of jest, he adds: ]

If it makes you feel any better, you only need to deal with Hubert. I'm not about to swing my blade without thinking for myself.

[ Perhaps it is unfair of him to compare Hubert in his mind with that infuriating Dedue. For as long as he drew breath, Felix would never forgive his former lord's retainer for easily declaring he would cut down helpless civilians if so ordered. While he did not doubt Hubert was capable of cutting down innocents for the overall benefit of the Adrestian Empire or Edelgard, it's clear as day to Felix that Hubert acted in the best interests of Edelgard.

In fact, he wouldn't put it past Hubert to defy Edelgard if she put herself in danger.

Suddenly, Felix falls silent, eyes dropping to the floor. It's dangerous to fall pensively into reminiscing, and yet, it's difficult to stop himself from doing so.

His fist clenches, unconsciously. ]

I never liked it, blindly throwing away one's life because your lord happened to order it.

[crimsonflower]

[Felix's deduction is correct. In fact Hubert has already, on more than one occasion, went against Edelgard's will to do what he thinks would benefit her. Even if he has to keep that aid secret from her.

Edelgard considers Felix's words as she dutifully places the maps and scrolls where they belong. She cannot manage to stay still. How can she? So much rides on her shoulders. To win the war, but have Fodlan crumble in her hands like brittle charcoal scares her. To only be successful when it comes to bloodshed would prove the words of those who denounce her as right. To come so far and have her dreams slip right through her fingers would ruin her.

She needs to ensure everything goes well. So much weighs on her heart and shoulders that she feels as if an anvil sits on her back wanting her to hunch over and give up. But she stands resolute, doesn't voice her concerns, and makes sure her back and shoulders are straight as much as possible.]

Blind faith and following the will of another without question... We can definitely agree that such things are detestable. I am glad to have your blade at my side, Felix. And now that the war is over perhaps I can test your skill a little myself.

[scindere]

[ Perhaps neither of them would ever be able to reveal what kinds of thoughts tossed and turned in their heads. Felix silently observes Edelgard straightening the last of her papers and maps before standing from her seat.

It's nice to have someone agree with you from time to time. ]

I suppose you'd know better than anyone else how foolish it is, laying down just because someone told you to.

[ After all, wasn't that why Edelgard had declared war on the Church of Seiros to begin with? Wasn't that why Edelgard worked tirelessly to expose the inconvenient truth of dragons manipulating the people of Fodlan into adhering to a false religion when the citizens could have been making their own decisions on morals all along?

Confusion surfaces in Felix's eyes momentarily, but the look quickly disappears. He's not used to being complimented just yet, not when it seemed that some were more likely to write him off as an insatiable blood knight. The confusion is replaced with a fire, the sort that only begins to roar to life at the prospect of a duel.

Edelgard, the Adrestian Emperor, was teasing the opportunity for a spar. ]

Was that an invitation for me to join your training? If you're offering me a battle, I expect you to keep your word, Edelgard. ...consider it a warm up before I head out to the spot where Hubert suspects that mage group's activities are happening.

[ Later, Felix might even ask for a rematch the next time he returned from his mission. While he doesn't intend on dying at all in the field, having something to look forward to upon returning to the Empire was always nice. And because it's Felix, the promise of a spar is enough to keep him going. ]

[crimsonflower]

Oh? I did not intend for a demonstration so soon, but if you are fired up how can I refuse? Meet me in the courtyard with your preferred training weapon.

[After all this is a spar. A man of the Kingdom challenging Lady Edelgard might come across as something to be concerned about otherwise. Even if Felix has been a part of her Black Eagles team for years now.

Either way a smile plays upon Edelgard's lips. She cannot help but liken Felix to a cat that just heard a can of tuna being pried open. In fact even just thinking that has her doing her best not to allow even the beginnings of laughter show. As such her expression comes off arrogant and smug.]

lmk if i need to edit! i figure maybe you could skip them ahead to the courtyard?

[scindere]

[ "Fired up" is an understatement when it comes to Felix's feelings about sparring. Perhaps he is even more eager to challenge Edelgard because he had already observed the way she threw her all into everything she did. He expects the Adrestian Emperor to perform at the same level of effort and seriousness. ]

I'm not --

[ He intends to protest Edelgard's observation of his eagerness, but the words quickly die on his lips. There is no use in arguing, so he shakes his head. Instead, he chooses to focus in on the beginnings of an arrogant smile playing upon Edelgard's face.

He mistakes it for overblown confidence, but he's not upset at all. Instead, the expression only serves to make him more eager to face her. ]

I expect you to give it your all, Edelgard. There's nothing more disappointing than facing an enemy who thinks they can't win against me. That's like giving up at the starting line.

[ With the promise of a duel, Felix gathers his belongings while mentally calculating which of his array of training weapons would be the best counter to Edelgard's favored axe weapons. ]

certainly

[crimsonflower]

[She will meet him in the courtyard swiftly. Edelgard keeps her wardress on, however her bulky cape is discarded to help favor her movement and dexterity. As Felix predicted she'll be favoring her axe. She does have skill with a sword, but he'd likely be disappointed if she tried facing him in a fight with it. After all it's her secondary choice, and more ceremonial than anything else.

When she approaches within earshot of Felix Edelgard speaks up.]

Are you certain you are prepared?

[scindere]

[ Much like Edelgard, Felix hasn't changed much of his clothing at all, choosing to shed layers of what he'd worn earlier. The heavy cloak he typically wore is gone, along with his long coat. Left behind is the dark, sleeveless turtleneck. His entire outfit hadn't changed much since their days at war, for it was a remnant of his days from Faerghus. It appeared he wasn't too comfortable shedding everything of his former identity just yet. In fact, Edelgard seemed to consider it an asset when it came to providing insight on how to politically manage the former Faerghus noble houses.

Even if Felix considered it a pain in the neck, he did have a certain knack for it. Perhaps it came with being a Fraldarius after all. ]

Of course. It's not every day I get to spar against you, what with your schedule being packed as ever.

[ An eager glint appears in Felix's eyes, one that only surfaced when promised an energetic spar. Although Felix carried himself with a certain air of confidence, the truth of the matter is that he's felt somewhat lost lately, straining to find his place in the new Adrestian Empire. But in a spar, he could forget about it all.

Felix holds his selected training weapon out in front of him, sliding into a combat stance, silently observing Edelgard. While he's certain he can outpace the Adrestian Emperor, it would do no good to aimlessly land hits that she could brush off easily. He'd have to find a proper opening then before striking true and quick.

But he doesn't spend all his time scanning for an opening: Felix springs forward, lunging forth like lightning. ]

[crimsonflower]

[The training axe she has with her is so much lighter than Aymr. It'll take some time getting used to, and as such she opts to dodge Felix's first charge rather than countering it. Meanwhile she adjusts to her weapon by feeling its weight in her hand as she spins and twirls the haft. From the outside it may look like a bit of arrogant grandstanding, but she'd rather that than half her first swing be too fierce and the light weapon fly out of her hand into a nearby building.]

Perhaps you should go a more formal route, then! Submit a petition in your name.

[scindere]

[ If there's one thing that Felix learned about Edelgard while the set about her campaign to unify Fodlan, it's that Edelgard is a fiercely efficient person. There was very little she did without an ultimate purpose behind it.

Felix catches himself as Edelgard manages to dodge him, quietly noting that the lighter training weapon would offer Edelgard better mobility in comparison to Aymr. He's observed her plenty of times in battle in the past, but she'd wielded her signature weapon in all those times. He'd need to re-calibrate and account for Edelgard's reaction times. ]

A petition? Now, there's an idea! Do you think it'd get past Hubert?

[ There's an energetic grin on his face, one that only appears when he senses an intense and rewarding spar. Felix crouches a little lower to the ground, then springs forward again with an upward slash, aiming not for Edelgard, but for her training weapon ]

[crimsonflower]

Hah! I am Emperor. While I trust Hubert with my life, he cannot veto any of my decisions.

[Like how he's upset every time she insists on putting herself on the battlefield, and yet he cannot put his foot down enough to convince her to stay off.

Edelgard cannot dodge this one so she swings her axe to catch his weapon in the curve of the haft and head. They're locked for a moment. Each other's strength pushing against their weapons as if daring the other to yield.]

Though, if it were to become a common practice others might get the wrong idea.

[scindere]

[ There's something humorous about Edelgard utilizing her Emperor veto power to object to Hubert's protests on regular spars. Perhaps if he were not concentrating on their duel, Felix would laugh.

Instead, he focuses on leaning his weight into his blade, pushing back against Edelgard's axe. He keeps his stance relaxed enough though to catch himself, should he sense that he should break away and conserve energy instead of continuing to struggle up close.

Now, after Edelgard's comment, a grin spreads across his face. ]

Let them talk. It's a small price for me to pay for this sort of opportunity, unless it's of a larger concern for you.

[crimsonflower]

[She keeps them locked for now. Weight of their weapons pitted against each other.]

I do not care much either, aside from the incessant talk of heirs. What a ridiculous notion to consider. Even if the war is over there is still much to be done. Not only that, but it is ridiculous to think someone with my ideals would not encourage her children to create their own destinies.

[When she finishes her statement Edelgard breaks their stalemate. Jerking her weapon to the side she tosses his as well. The head of her axe breaks away, and she's able to put distance between them once more.]