Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“...Did you catch all that Balthus?”

Yuri glared at Balthus.

“Oh uh… sure pal”

“Well that inspires confidence,” Yuri said. “Okay then tell me, who are you pretending to be?”

Balthus scratched his head. 

“Hey wait, I thought I get to be myself”

“You are. Just a version of you that didn’t pass your noble status to your younger brother and is currently single, extremely rich, and looking for a wife”

Balthus raised an eyebrow. 

“I like the rich part. Are the Varleys rich? You know, we could probably swipe a thing or two while we're there…”

Yuri ignored him. 

“And who am I?”

Balthus waved his hand.

“Oh, you’re a sort of goblin that does my bidding or something”

“No, I’m your bodyguard. Got it?"

Balthus laughed.

"Bodyguard? Do I look like I need a bodyguard?”

“Not exactly. I need a reason to be with you in case I need to execute my backup plan. And-"

“You need to hide your identity because you used to work there and her father might remember what you look like. See? I listen!” Balthus insisted.

Yuri and Balthus spotted the Varley mansion on the horizon.

“Hey Yuri, did you change your mind about the whole ‘no talking’ thing?” 

“No.”

“You really gotta be silent the whole time? But what if I forget my lines?”

Yuri shook his head.

“Come on Yuri. It's not like he'd recognize your voice”

“You're probably right,” Yuri sighed and looked ahead as they approached the Varley mansion, “but this is too important to take any chances”

Yuri and Balthus walked toward the front gate.

“Wait.” 

Yuri stopped and held up his hand. 

“Before we go in, remember, what was the promise I made to Bernadetta?” Yuri asked.

Balthus paused. 

“You promised to… oh don’t tell me. I won't steal anything? Because I'm not sure if I can manage that.”

“No, I promised Bernadetta I could get her out of there without killing her father.”

“I’m gonna level with you Yuri,” Balthus shrugged, 

“I think that's kinda stupid.”

“Why do you think I’m doing this whole charade in the first place?” Yuri hissed.

In a low voice he said, “You know that if it were up to me we’d just slice him up and leave. Real clean…”

Yuri trailed off. He looked up wistfully, imagining how delightfully simple it would be to kill Count Varley. Oh, and how satisfying to give that man his just desserts!

“I can’t break my promise.”

"C’mon Yuri, promises are made to be broken! Besides you told me what he does to her and -”

“Listen. I would love to see the bastard dead, I really would. But killing him has to be our backup plan. I’m going to at least try and keep my promise. Okay?” Yuri said.

“Whatever pal,” Balthus said exasperated, “just as long as you keep your promise.”

“Yeah, you can keep the pocket watch" 

A gold pocket watch hung out of Balthus’ pocket, a gaudy accessory to complete his disgustingly expensive getup; all courtesy of a noble who owed Yuri a favor.

“Haha alright! Now we’re talkin’,” Balthus seemed to have perked up. “then what are we waiting for?”

The two strode toward the gates of the Varley estate, their minds set on pulling off the mission.

A servant greeted the pair at the front door and led them to the parlor. Count Varley stood up from his chair.

“You must be Sir Balthus von Albrecht, I am Count Varley.” he said as he approached. “I have heard only good things about you”

Only good things huh, Yuri thought. Count Varley clearly doesn’t know a thing about Balthus.

“And I’ve heard nothing but uh… things about you Count.” Balthus said.

Varley came over for a handshake or a bow, it wasn’t clear because before he knew it Balthus was slapping him on the back.

“It’s great to meet you,” Balthus swung his hand way back, “PAL” he said through gritted teeth.

Balthus’ hand connected with Varley’s back causing him to lurch forward, looking ready to puke.

“You…” Varley barely coughed out, “You too”

Varley managed to compose himself.

"Come then, let’s talk. Take a seat Sir Balthus"

Balthus flopped down on a lounge chair. 

“Heh, don’t mind if I do. And just call me Balthus alright?” 

Yuri sat down without a sound next to him.

“Well then, er Balthus, I was quite intrigued by your letter. The heir to a noble family such as yourself must really see something in a marriage between our houses. But let me be clear; I need to know that this marriage will be a worthy investment for me," 

Varley said as he studied every inch of Balthus’ noble threads. 

"It hasn’t been easy to find a husband for Bernadetta, considering how she is," he continued, almost under his breath.

Yuri clenched his fists, unseen and covered in black gloves. Although he was a man who typically worked in the shadows, he would just love to teach Count Varley a lesson in broad daylight. But if this scheme worked, Bernadetta would never have to see her father again. She would be safe, and Yuri would make sure of it.

"I'd say I’m worth every penny! Ask me anything." Balthus said confidently.

“Then tell me, how did your family first acquire- " 

Varley began to ask, but stopped short. He eyed the hunched over Yuri, wearing all black with a hooded cloak to hide his face.

"My. Who is this again?"

“Oh that’s just uh…” Balthus studied Yuri, “he’s just an imp. You know?”

Unbelievable, Yuri thought. Balthus has the memory of a goldfish.

Varley stiffened.

“No, I don’t know what that is. Does it bite?”

“Of course not, he’s just a little guy -”

Yuri kicked Balthus in the shin.

“Ack! I mean he's, you know, my apprentice. Uh, I mean my helper. Assistant? No no wait, he's my bodyguard!”

Yuri turned his hooded head towards him, seething. Yuri’s glare could have burnt a hole right through Balthus.

“Yeah the little guy basically carries my stuff. Kinda like a servant,” Balthus patted Yuri on the head.

“I see,” Varley nodded. That, he seemed to understand.

“I recall your letter mentioned you wouldn’t be traveling alone. I imagine the trip was easier with your... uh. Imp around. Now, does he really act as your bodyguard?”

Balthus nodded. 

“Well yeah! Like on our way here a storm came through. His body stood over my body all afternoon so I wouldn't get wet. Even when this guy started shivering from the cold he never gave up. He’s a real trooper.”

Varley laughed, seeming to either believe Balthus or just not care.

“Well, how about you ask your imp here to take off his cloak?”

It was more of a command than a question.

“Nope, absolutely not,” 

Balthus replied quickly.

Yuri relaxed a bit. If Balthus wanted to make him out to be an imp, then so be it. It was far more important that Varley not discover his true identity.

“May I ask why?” 

Varley's eyes narrowed.

“He’s just super ugly.”

Balthus said flatly.

“I don’t want you or the lady Bernadetta to witness his absolute monstrosity of a face.”

Yuri was so close to ruining the whole thing. He imagined himself socking Balthus right in the face. Then we’d see who was really ugly. But his mood softened when he saw Bernadetta inching her way into the room.

“Oh look who finally came out of their cave. This is my daughter,”

Varley said with little enthusiasm.

“Yeah, we met at the academy. Hey again Bernadetta! It’s me, your pal Balthus!” 

Balthus stood up to greet her.

“O-oh… Um...” Bernadetta quickly sat down without approaching him, avoiding eye contact. Seeing as she wasn’t completely terrified, Bernadetta must have had at least some idea who he was.

“Y’know my family’s dying to meet her,” Balthus said. “I wanna get on the road back to my place as soon as possible.”

"Yes I understand. But before she goes anywhere I’ll be frank. The matter at hand is a financial one. How do I know you and your family are as worthy as you claim you are?"

“Let me tell you Mr. Varley sir, your daughter here is real great. And I'm real rich! Let me tell you about my many, many accomplishments-”

Yuri assessed the situation. Balthus was clearly making it up as he went along, but at the very least he was doing it with confidence.

Just showing up clearly isn’t enough to convince Count Varley. This won't be easy, Yuri thought to himself.

Chapter Text

Yuri looked back at Varley who had stopped listening a while ago. Instead, he was transfixed by Balthus’ pocket watch, which had fallen out of his pocket and onto the lounge chair.

“And that wasn’t the only year I came in first place. The next year-”

Balthus started to say but was interrupted by Varley. 

“That is a simply divine pocket watch you have there. It wouldn’t happen to be a part of the Ylisse collection, would it? Can I see it?” 

Varley would have wagged his tail if he had one.

“It just might be,” Balthus said coyly, although he really had no idea what kind of watch it was. 

He allowed Varley a closer look.

“Why yes, it certainly is!” Varley lit up. “I’ve been coveting that very watch you hold in your hands for years! It's a very rare piece, as I'm sure you know. See this design on the clock’s face? There’s only been three like this ever made! Oh, the craftsmanship is extraordinary!”

“Uh huh.” Balthus could barely pretend to care.

“I have quite a collection of rare pocket watches myself"

“So you’ve got some expensive watches too? Here?” Balthus asked, suddenly interested.

“Oh, yes! Let me show you, come with me.” 

Varley shuffled off with Balthus following behind, leaving Bernadetta and Yuri alone in the parlor.

As Balthus’ and Varley’s footsteps got quieter Bernadetta sprung up from her seat like a frightened animal. She whipped her head left, then right, scanning the room to sense any danger in her vicinity. When the footsteps completely disappeared she fixated on Yuri.

“Um…” she crept toward him, crouching to try and see under his hood. 

“Is it… r-really you?”

Yuri lifted his hood so Bernadetta could see his face, which in his opinion was definitely not ugly .

Bernadetta squealed in excitement and smiled.

“I knew it!”

Yuri smiled back, then put a finger to his lips.

“Oh! Quiet, got it” she whispered, “is this a-actually gonna work?”

Yuri shook his head yes.

“B-but my father isn’t going to let me go, oh just I know he won’t,” 

She put her head in her hands. Yuri’s heart sank. It was a possibility. But one way or another, he was getting her out of here, even if it meant breaking his promise to her. Bernadetta would be free today, no matter what.

“He’s gonna see through the plan,” She swallowed hard.

“Yuri I’m gonna be in so much trouble. You’re gonna be- oh gods, he’s gonna-” 

She tried to speak but no more words would come out. Her eyes watered as she sunk closer to the ground, seemingly defeated. Footsteps were starting to ring in their ears, approaching the parlor. Yuri spoke for the first time, grabbing her hand with his gloved one.

“I’m getting you out of here” 

The footsteps grew louder. Their eyes met and Bernadetta relaxed a bit. Yuri squeezed her hand one more time and mouthed “I promise,” then flung his hood back on.

The two of them separated in time for Balthus and Varley to reenter the room.

“Your dad has quite the collection!” Balthus was beaming. “I mean, that stuff has gotta be worth millions!” Balthus stopped himself.

“Oh but not that I’ve never seen a collection like that. Mine is far, far larger. In fact, my collection… ” Balthus blathered on.

He’s laying it on a little thick , Yuri thought.

But Varley seemed to hang on every word. They had him right where they wanted him.

“Well it’s been just great to meet you old man. Really. But we should get going, right m’lady?”

Balthus reached out a hand to Bernadetta.

“It’s Count Varely, may I remind you. And you’re leaving without dining with us?”

Varley stepped in between them. 

“I simply must give you a tour of our home, although I’m sure it’s a mere hovel compared to yours. Come along now, I won’t take no for an answer.”

Balthus sighed. “Fine. I guess.”

The four of them wandered the halls, Count Varley explaining every lousy trinket they passed. 

“And this is from the Duke of Nohr, have you heard of him? Oh and let me tell you a story about this handkerchief,” 

Yuri felt himself falling asleep the longer the man droned on. Balthus and Bernadetta weren’t holding up too much better. The tour had to be nearly over by now, right?

They approached the greenhouse and for once, Bernadetta looked excited about something in her home.

“We can just skip this room. It’s a bunch of plants.” Varley said.

“Father, do you think um… c-could I show them my plants? My carnivorous golden saucer just bloomed yesterday!”

“Bernadetta, our guest doesn’t have the time for your measly weeds.”

“Hold up, I love plants,” Balthus insisted. “how about you give us the grand tour, Bernadetta?”

“Fine. I have to attend to something more important anyways.” Varley left the room in a huff.

Balthus and Yuri went on Bernadetta’s garden tour, soaking in every word. Bernadetta hopped along stopping at each plant to describe it in detail.

“And this one is a red snapper! It’ll consume anything within a few inches so watch your fingers.”

Balthus and Yuri moved very carefully through the room, being careful not to touch anything lest they lose an appendage.

“Oh and this one might be my favorite; the Midgar Marigold. My whole greenhouse was in danger of being taken over by fire ants until this little guy stepped in and ate them all up!”

“I can’t believe a plant can eat bugs! That’s nuts!” Balthus said. 

Yuri pointed out the plants he liked most and asked questions in a whisper, just in case. Bernadetta was upbeat, finally in her element. It eased the tension after an otherwise excruciating house tour. Varley eventually meandered back into the room. 

“Are you done yet?”

“B-but I was just gonna show…” 

Varley took a step towards her and she stiffened.

“Oh, I mean... I’m sorry for wasting everyone’s time.”

Bernadetta said, coiling back into her shell once again. Watching her interact with her father was like seeing a regression in all of the progress she had made over the years, and it deeply pained Yuri to see.

“That was great, thanks for the tour, Bern!”

Balthus and Yuri clapped, making Bernadetta blush. Count Varley rolled his eyes.

“Well, it certainly took long enough.”

Varley narrowed his eyes at Yuri, then looked at Bernadetta, then back to Balthus.

“Tell me sir Balthus, does your ever imp talk?”

“Nah,” Balthus replied. “He can understand us though”

“And he does whatever you ask?”

“I mean yeah, more or less.”

“Someone that follows your every command, doesn’t speak and certainly can’t talk back…If only my daughter…” 

Varley trailed off, deep in thought. 

“You’ll have to let me know sometime how you got one of these.”

Disgusting excuse for a human. Yuri thought. Come on Balthus, hit him again!

Balthus forced out a laugh and slapped Varley on the back. “Yeah, maybe I’ll do just,” Balthus wound up for a big hit, “ THAT ” Varley was launched forward, almost hitting the ground. Everyone pretended not to notice.

Varley wrapped up his mind-numbing house tour and the group sat down for a meal. Servants filed out of the kitchen with silver platters.

“Hoho! Lookin tasty!” Balthus said, rubbing his hands together.

For Gods sake Balthus, we don’t even know what they’re serving yet, Yuri thought. There could be a shoe under there and Balthus would still gladly eat it.

The group was served their meal and everyone shamelessly dug in, even Yuri. He didn’t realize how hungry he was until the food was right in front of him.

“This food is fantastic! But it could really use something… How bout you break out the good stuff Mister Count?”

“The ‘good’ stuff? I’m not entirely sure what you mean.” Varley replied confused, or at least pretending to be.

“You know. The hooch. The sauce.”

“Come again?”

“Dammit old man, where’s the booze?”

“I’m sorry, but we’re unable to serve any alcohol at this time,” Varley replied curtly.

“The hell’s that supposed to mean?” I saw at least a dozen bottles on your house tour. Don’t get up, I’ll go grab one.”

“You may not know this but that liquor is hundreds of years old. Just one bottle is worth a small fortune. It’s really for special occasions only.”

“What, today ain't special?”

“Perhaps at your wedding. Now, we will speak no more of it.”

Confused and broken, Balthus spent the rest of the meal stewing in anger.

“Unbelievable I gotta be sober for this shit.” Balthus muttered under his breath.

Varley tried to break the tension as dessert was being served.

“Sir Balthus, I was surprised to learn your friend here can eat regular food,” Varley said, looking at Yuri.

“Of course he does. You say the funniest things old man.” Balthus answered.

“That's Count Varley to you.”

“Uh huh,” Balthus brushed him off. “And that’s just Balthus to you.”

“Hmm. Tell me sir- er I mean, Balthus, does this imp of yours do any sort of tricks?”

Balthus, say no. Please just say no. Yuri pleaded with a Balthus who couldn’t hear him.

“Well of course he does! He has the most beautiful singing voice”

NO!!!

Yuri panicked. What the hell was Balthus thinking?

As if reading his mind, Balthus leaned over and whispered,

“If I have to suffer, then so should you.”

“If he can’t talk, how can he possibly sing?” Varley balked at the idea.

Yes, good! It makes no logical sense. Balthus has put us in a bad position here but it's just a minor slip up, Yuri thought. We can still fix this.

“Could he still vocalize? I um… I would love to hear a song” Bernadetta replied, unsure if she was crossing a line.

Shit! Bernadetta no! Yuri was sent back into a panic.

“Spot on, Bernadetta,” Balthus replied. “Come on old man, keep up!”

Bernadetta smiled and nodded with some confidence.

“Fine then,” Varley replied, clearly annoyed, “let's hear a song.” 

Varley folded his arms.

Call me ugly, or an imp, do your worst. Yuri thought. But I will NOT sing. 

Yuri looked at Bernadetta and she gave him an encouraging smile. Everything was going according to plan so far. He wouldn’t be the one to mess it up, even if it meant facing his worst fear.

Yuri took a deep breath. He quietly sang a short tune, replacing the words with gibberish.

How utterly humiliating , Yuri thought. Balthus will never let me hear the end of this.

The table guests clapped their hands.

“Wow,” Bernadetta said breathlessly, staring in awe at Yuri. Almost made it worth it.

“He’s quite talented,” Varley remarked.

“I know how to pick em!” Balthus patted Yuri on the back.

After an eventful meal, the four convened in the parlor.

“Well, it’s about time we hit the ole dusty trail.” Balthus said.

“Oh yes, of course.”

Yuri didn’t think Balthus would take no for an answer at that point anyway.

“Great. Gonna hit the head first, I’ll be right back.” Balthus said.

“In the meantime, go pack a bag, Bernadetta.” 

Varley instructed her and she nodded. As she walked away Varley grabbed her arm.

“And make it snappy. Got it?” 

As soon as he loosened his grip Bernadetta scampered off without looking back.

Another touching father daughter moment, Yuri noted.

Yuri and Count Varley sat in the parlor in silence, waiting for Balthus and Bernadetta to return.

“Imp, does Sir Balthus usually take this long to um. You know…?” Varley asked.

Yuri shrugged.

“I guess you couldn’t tell me even if you did know. My daughter… well, she sure is taking her sweet time,” Varley said, tapping his foot. 

Balthus entered the room and sat down in a parlor chair very slowly, and Yuri could hear the distinct sound of objects clanking together.

Really Balthus? Stealing now? Yuri was a bit peeved, but he supposed Balthus swiping a thing or two from the house was relatively harmless.

“Balthus I apologize for my daughter’s blatant disrespect. I tried my best to train her but…” 

Count Varley trailed off. 

“You got some nerve,” Balthus muttered under his breath.

“What's that?” Varley seemed to have heard him.

“I said, uh, you got some serve! The food was great. You know, the food service. Yeah.” 

Balthus slumped down in his chair and rubbed his face. It wasn't easy entertaining a dolt like Varley.

Balthus is starting to slip. We just have to hang in there a little longer, Yuri thought.

“Well it's getting dark, I'm going to fetch Bernadetta. She’s really done it this time…” 

Varley stood up.

“Oh, uh don't worry! I'll go!” 

Balthus quickly stood up as well. Then he turned to Yuri. 

“Actually, no, my imp will go. He's good at carrying things. So, Mr. Count! Tell me more about that handkerchief collection, yeah?”

Nice save Balthus, Yuri thought. 

Varley looked skeptical, but Yuri rushed out of the parlor before anyone could stop him.

Chapter Text

Yuri knocked on Bernadetta’s door.

“Hey. It's me. Can I come in?” he whispered.

Bernadetta opened the door slightly. Yuri could only see half of her face but her eyes were swollen. She stared at him without responding.

"Bernadetta, please."

She nodded and let Yuri inside, albeit a bit reluctantly.

Yuri scanned her room. Her stuffed animals were undisturbed so she likely hadn’t even started to pack.

“Hey Bernadetta, we can leave now. Pretty great right? Are you almost ready to go?”

“I'm sorry Yuri” she started to sob. “I… I just can't get myself together! I’m gonna mess the whole thing up after you put all of this work into rescuing me. I’m so sorry, I ruined everything, I always do,”

Bernadetta laid down on her bed and buried her face in a pillow.

Yuri knelt down and put his hand on her shoulder.

“It’s okay Bernadetta. You’ve done nothing wrong.”

She didn’t respond, and Yuri took a deep breath.

“I should’ve thought about how hard this would be for you, so I'm the one who’s sorry,” Yuri lamented his own ignorance. 

“No it's my fault, it's all my fault!”

“It’s not your fault. None of this is your fault, and I’m sorry I couldn’t help you out sooner.”

Yuri sat on her bed and waited for a response, but she said nothing and continued her sobs.

“Bernadetta, please. At least tell me what’s on your mind. Whatever it is, I can help you.”

“I can’t go with you. I’m just going to slow you down.” she said, muffled into her pillow. “Stupid Bernie. You don’t belong out in the world, you can barely leave your room.”

“You won’t slow me down. If you’re not ready for this I won’t be mad.”

“I wanna go with you but I can't. It doesn’t matter how much I want to, it never matters what I want,”

“I'm going to stop you right there,” Yuri patted her gently on her shoulder. “Will you hear me out?”

To Yuri’s relief, she lifted herself up. Yuri took off his gloves to hold her hands in his. Feeling each other’s warmth, their hearts started to beat a little faster. 

“It may be direct, but I'm going to tell you exactly what I think. You deserve the truth after everything you've been through. Is that okay?”

“Yes, it's okay.” She blinked back tears.

Yuri took a deep breath. 

“Bernadetta, I want you to come with me. I want to take you far away from here, from your father, all of it. Maybe I'm being selfish, but I want to be the one who makes you happy. I’ll protect you. I'll give you whatever kind of life you want. But I’m not going to make you come with me either. I’d find another way to keep you safe, and for us to be together if that’s what you still want. You deserve to make your own choices. What do you want to do?”

“I want to come with you, but I’m too scared. I'm not strong like you.”

“Maybe not now, but you will be.”

“And you'll keep me safe?”

“Yes. I promise.”

“You won’t let any monsters or my father or fire ants get me?

“Fire ants? Uh, sure. Yes, all of those.”

Bernadetta was deep in thought, but not for long.

“And I’m allowed to just leave this place?”

“Yes. But that depends on you.”

Bernadetta smiled.

“Okay I… I gotta finish packing.”

“Of course. Do you need any help?”

“No, I'll be okay,” 

“Then I’ll wait right outside.”

Bernadetta finally emerged from her room carrying a bag and turned around.

“Goodbye room. Goodbye plants.”

Yuri couldn’t help but feel a bit guilty. He was essentially tearing her apart from her family and everything she’d ever known. Was this really okay? Bernadetta looked at his worried expression and frowned. She tapped him on the shoulder.

“Hey, Yuri”

“Hmm?”

Bernadetta stood up straight.

“I’m…I’m ready. I’m scared, but I’m ready.” she said with a nod. Yuri nodded back.

“Heh. You look ready. Let’s go.”

The two walked back to rejoin Count Varley and Balthus.

Bernadetta and Yuri entered the parlor, where Balthus was busy setting up Count Varley for disaster.

“And remember, when you come to visit the von Albrecht estate, make sure you tell em Balthus sent you.”

“Is it really okay to just walk right in?”

“Sure, sure! You’re family now! Just mention my name is all. Yeah, they love me over there. Heh heh.”

Bernadetta, Yuri, Balthus, and Count Varley left the parlor and made their way towards the front door. Bernadetta couldn’t wait to be out from under her father’s control. Yuri could hardly wait to finally give Bernadetta a taste of real freedom. And Balthus couldn’t wait to blow all the money he’d have from selling the watch. The Varley’s servants and staff lined up at the door to bid them farewell.

“Um… goodbye father.” Bernadetta looked at Count Varley with a melancholy expression.

“Yes yes, goodbye Bernadetta. I’ll see you in a few weeks. Please behave yourself,” Varley said, completely unaware that he may never see his daughter again.

Varley quickly turned his attention away from Bernadetta.

“Now Balthus, there’s just a small matter that needs to be settled before you go,” Varley said, positioning himself between Balthus and the door.

Bernadetta froze. 

“Oh no no no…” she whispered to herself. 

Yuri felt the urge to grab her hand and just make a run for it. But they’d be caught too easily. He needed to be smart and see how this played out.

“Yeah, yeah okay. Make it quick.” Balthus sighed.

“Well you see, your letters were all very legitimate sounding and all. But I need to make sure this venture is truly worth my investment, and that you have the er… capital that you claim to have. Do you understand what I mean?”

“Uh… huh.” Balthus said, narrowing his eyes at Varley. “Just tell me what you want.”

“Yes, so I'll be needing a sort of… down payment, to be frank.” Varley shifted his gaze to Balthus’ pocket.

“You want my watch, huh?” Balthus said slowly, gripping the watch a bit tighter.

“Maybe I could just hold onto it until you get back,” Varley suggested.

“Yeah? And what’s in it for me?”

“I would of course return the watch when we next meet. If you want to return it, that is.”

So this is Varley’s price. A daughter for a pocket watch. Bernadetta looked down. 

“I knew he’d never let me go…”

If Yuri was able to see her expression he was sure it would have broken his heart. Not only was she being traded like a commodity, but their escape plan was quickly falling apart. Balthus was likely about to snap. The watch was worth too much to just hand over, and a fight would surely ensue.

So it’s come to this. I’m sorry Bernadetta. Yuri thought. I should have known this was a ridiculous plan.

Yuri quickly reconciled that the whole scheme was for nothing and started to scan the room. If they ran away now, Varley would be able to track them down easily. They needed at least a week or more to get far enough away, preferably out of Fodlan. Killing Varley would be simple enough, and it’d be fast to boot. The bigger problem was the ten servants in the room, or ten witnesses. Not to mention anyone else wandering around within earshot. They’d need to be paid off, but how many people could keep a secret? 

Worst of all, Bernadetta would be horrified to see her father murdered in front of her, even if he was a terrible, vile excuse for a man. And he’d be murdered by someone who she wanted to spend her future with no less. All of that aside, Yuri saw that it had to be done, and reluctantly reached for his knife.

“Fine.” Balthus said, and Yuri’s head whipped over to see Balthus holding out his watch in hand to Varley, who quickly snatched up the precious pocket watch.

Balthus gave it up? But why? Yuri thought, absolutely flabbergasted.

Despite his confusion, he felt warmth as sweet relief washed over his body. Yuri looked at Bernadetta, who was practically beaming. He’d never seen her look happier.

“Ohoho, splendid!” This seemed to be Count Varley’s happiest moment as well. “I’ll keep it safe don’t worry!”

“Uh huh. Well, it’s been a real pleasure or whatever,” Balthus said, exhausted. He wound up his hand for another vicious slap on the back. Varley curled up, bracing for the attack. Instead, Balthus stuck out his hand. Varley relaxed and shook his hand.

“Oh yes, yes of course! You are now a part of the Varley family.”

“That’s,” Balthus quickly swung his hand back, “GREAT” and hit Varley harder than he had any other time, the force knocking Varley to the ground. Varley caught himself and attempted to struggle back to his feet. Everyone, the servants included, pretended not to notice.

Varley took several deep breaths. “I-I’m,” he labored, “pr-proud to have you as my f-f-future” Varley looked up, hoping someone would finish his sentence. When no one would, he took another deep breath. “Son-uh-n in l-law” 

By the time he fully composed himself, Bernadetta, Yuri, and Balthus were already on horseback, disappearing into the distance.

“Why did you give away the watch?” Yuri asked Balthus. The three were seated outside an inn, finally able to take a rest.

“Listen, I’d have given just about anything to leave that place.” Balthus brushed it off. “I know more than I ever wanted to about handkerchiefs.”

Yuri was still surprised at his friend. Balthus would never deny an easy payday, even if he was exhausted or annoyed. Who was this sitting next to him?

“Thank you,” Bernadetta chimed in. “we couldn’t have done it without your help!”

“I don’t say this much, but thanks for having my back, Balthus.” Yuri gave Balthus a nod.

“Yeah, well don’t get all sappy on me now. It’s not like I left empty handed or anything.”

Balthus stood up and opened his coat, revealing dozens of stolen items from the Varley mansion. 

“C’mon Yuri, you gotta know me better than that!”

Yuri’s first reaction was to laugh, but he looked over at Bernadetta. Would she be hurt by this?

But he didn’t need to worry. Bernadetta was already giggling.

“Um… I kind of took something too.”

Bernadetta reached into her bag and pulled out a bottle and placed it in the center of the table.

“No way! Bernadetta, you took this?” Yuri was in awe.

“I'm sorry it's kind of small, it's all I could fit in my bag.”

“It's… it's BOOZE!” Balthus was just about ready to cry.

“Yeah! It's for us all to share. As um, you know. Friends.” Bernadetta said shyly.

The wine was distributed among the three of them. Yuri raised his glass.

“A toast. Here's to you Bernadetta, the bravest person I know.”

Bernadetta blushed. “Me? Um, here's to you too Yuri. I…I'm so excited!”

The two stared at each other for a while, lost in each others’ eyes. 

Bernadetta is finally safe. And she’s happy. What more could I possibly ask for? Yuri thought.

Balthus looked at the couple, then back to his drink.

“And uh… well this is awkward. Here's to Balthus I guess,” he said.

“I’m not toasting you after all the ways you embarrassed me today.”

“You know what? That’s fair.”

The three clinked their glasses together and spent the night laughing and enjoying each other’s company.

The next day, the three prepared to leave. Bernadetta looked at Balthus. 

“Thank you again Balthus,” Her face grew more serious. “I'm sorry but my father…” she looked down. “When he finally realizes he’s been fooled, he’s going to be looking for you too. You might be in danger. I'm so sorry.”

Yuri put his hand on her back. 

“Trust me, your father is joining a long list of people looking for Balthus. One more name will hardly make a difference.”

“Yeah don't feel bad. I know what I signed up for. Your dad can join the club! Ha!” Balthus said, reassuring Bernadetta.

“I don't know how I can ever repay you. I really owe-”

Don't say it Bernadetta! Yuri thought desperately.

“I owe you one!”

“No, no she doesn't!” Yuri cut in waving his arms. He continued, “I mean, thank you Balthus. Couldn't have done it without you and all that BUT we do not consider ourselves in your debt. Okay?”

Bernadetta looked confused. Yuri whispered to her, 

“Just trust me on this one.”

“Don't worry Bernadetta, anything for a friend! Now Yuri on the other hand…” 

Yuri gave Balthus a severe side eye.

“Yeesh! I mean, oh no need to thank me! Come on.” Balthus laughed nervously. “It's been fun but I got some money to blow- I mean, uh, stuff to do. I’ll see you around Yuri. You too, Bernadetta.”

“Of course,” Yuri said, and Bernadetta nodded and waved.

Bernadetta held on to Yuri and the two travelers rode off on their horse in one direction, and Balthus in the other.

“I can’t believe you actually came to get me, just like you promised. I feel like I’m in a storybook!” Bernadetta said dreamily.

“Yeah well I’m certainly no knight in shining armor. But I’d do anything for you, Bernadetta.”

“For me? Why? I'm just...” she trailed off.

“Don’t you know by now? I’m in love with you.”

The words sounded foreign coming out of his mouth but he wanted Bernadetta to hear them.

“Yuri… I love you too”

The two rode in a blissful silence, their cheeks red, each soaking in the other’s words.

Bernadetta finally broke the silence.

“Um… Yuri? Can I ask you something?”

“What’s up?”

“Where are we going?”

Yuri noticed it was already starting to get dark. “A destination… yes, of course.” he said, a bit embarrassed. “Where would you like to go first?”

“W-well um, what are the choices?” Bernadetta asked.

“Choices?” Yuri laughed. “Bernadetta, we can go anywhere you want, do anything. Just name it.”

“Anywhere? Me?” She was a little surprised. After a pause she continued,

“Well, I’ve always wanted to see the ocean,” She hugged him a little tighter.

Yuri grinned. 

“The ocean? Then I’ll make it so”

The pair rode off into the sunset to seek adventure together.