Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Year 1171

He had done it! He had finally done it! Hubert von Vestra had finally cast his first dark magic spell: Miasma ∆! It wasn’t very powerful and needed a lot of fine tuning, but it was a start. He was so excited that he cast a victory Thunder spell at an innocent training dummy, causing it to explode. He wasn’t even annoyed that a piece of debris from the blast flew towards him and struck him just above his left eye. Nothing could ruin this moment. On top of his regular studies, he had been secretly teaching himself dark magic. Two moons ago, he had stolen one of his father’s tomes from his study, and had dedicated himself to learning more advanced magic spells. Every spare minute he had, he spent practicing. And finally he was starting to see some results. He knew that there were consequences to using dark magic without a Crest, but it didn’t matter. It would all be worth it. The uncomfortable prickling sensation in his fingers. The sleepless nights. The bone deep exhaustion. Even the incident when he accidentally set his hair on fire. Thankfully it was just hair so the only treatment he needed was to cut off the left side of his bangs (they were getting too long anyway). When his father saw him he just laughed. Embarrassed, Hubert insisted that the uneven haircut was completely intentional and continued to cut his bangs unevenly to prove his point. It was all worth it. He couldn’t wait to tell—

And suddenly his good mood was gone. Just like her. His liege. His lady. Edelgard. Gone. He had dedicated his life to hers when he was just six years old. He was her retainer. He was supposed to stay by her side. He was supposed to protect her.

But he had failed.

Hubert still vividly remembers the day he discovered she had been taken away. The sense of loss that overcame him on that day defied all description. He tried to go after her. He wanted to bring her home. But at the time he was only an eleven year old boy. He was caught within three days and brought back to Enbarr, to his father. His punishment had been severe. His father kept him under constant surveillance. That had been a few moons ago, and his father finally rescinded his order to have his son watched at all times. But he was still not allowed off the Palace grounds and he had a strict curfew. Hubert knew that it would be foolish to try leaving again. He had broken his vow to Edelgard that he would always be there for her. But he refused to fail her again. Because he would see her again. Even if it took him the rest of his life, he would reunite with Edelgard. So he made a new promise. He dedicated himself to becoming stronger, smarter, someone who could protect her. He would be a weapon for his Lady to wield. He couldn’t afford any distractions.

He was just heading back to his room when he was distracted by an unfamiliar sound. He heard soft humming coming from the direction of the Imperial gardens. And since it was his default setting to be immediately suspicious of anything he didn’t recognize or understand, he went to investigate. He followed the strange sounds further into the gardens. He crouched behind a hedge, peered over, and saw an unfamiliar young boy. He was humming loudly to himself while admiring the flowers. Hubert wondered who the boy was and where he came from. He looked to be about several years younger than Hubert and had hair the color of amber. From what he could tell, the boy’s clothes were made from expensive material and he was well groomed. Hubert was so caught up in analyzing the boy’s appearance that he didn’t realize the mystery boy had noticed him until he heard a gasp. He looked up into the boy’s matching amber eyes that were filled with shock. Then the shock quickly turned into a look of absolute horror. And then the boy dashed behind another hedge and out of sight. Well that was certainly an overreaction. Hubert thought. But he wasn’t too surprised. This mystery boy was not the first to have a negative reaction upon seeing Hubert for the first time. Some children would frown, others looked wary. Most children looked intimidated or just plain creeped out. But gasping with distaste and running away was new. But the boy did just catch Hubert staring at him from behind a bush, like a predator watching its prey, so Hubert decided he couldn’t completely fault the boy for being so scared. He let out a small sigh and started to walk away.

“Wait!”

Hubert turned around and much to his surprise, he saw the same boy running straight at him. But this time he carried a small leather satchel. Confused, Hubert just looked at the boy as he stopped right in front of him, slightly out of breath. The boy then started to rummage in his bag until he pulled out…a handkerchief? He then smiled and held out the handkerchief towards Hubert. Still bewildered, Hubert just stared blankly at the handkerchief being presented to him until the boy spoke.

“Here. You need this more than I do.”

“I do?” Hubert was confused.

“For your head.”

“My head?”

“You’re—I mean, you are bleeding.”

“I’m…what?”

“Bleeding.” The boy pointed right above Hubert’s left eye. Hubert lifted his hand to his forehead and when he withdrew it he saw that there was blood. Must’ve been from when the dummy exploded. He was pulled from his thoughts when the boy, who grew tired of waiting for him to react, reached up and began to gently dab at Hubert’s forehead with the handkerchief. “I hope it does not hurt. When I first saw you, you looked like you were in a lot of pain.”

“That’s just my face.” Hubert deadpanned. The boy let out a small giggle.

“Here.” The boy held out his handkerchief again. “You should keep your wound covered until a healer fixes you.” Hubert hesitantly took the handkerchief, and then held it to his injury.

“Thank you.”

“You are most welcome Mr…uh…Sir?” The boy trailed off.

“Vestra. Hubert von Vestra.” He gave the boy a slight bow. “But you can just call me Hubert.”

“Hubert, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Father and I just moved to Enbarr. We are living in the manor nearby.” Said the boy as he smiled and swept into a big flourishing bow that Hubert thought was excessive but also a little endearing. “Please allow me to introduce myself…” The boy puffed out his chest.

“I am Ferdinand von Aegir!”

Chapter Text

1172

Although Hubert did not like to draw comparisons between Ferdinand and Ludwig von Aegir, he did have to admit that Ferdinand inherited his powerful voice from his father. He was the loudest ten year old that Hubert had ever met. But the sounds that Ferdinand made were strong and jubilant, unlike his father who only sounded grating and harsh. Hubert could hear Ludwig’s shouting before he even knocked on the front door of the Aegir manor. He couldn’t make out every word, but it was obvious that Ferdinand was being scolded by his father. Phrases like “no son of mine,” and “long hair is for girls” echoed down the hallways. And Hubert always did have great hearing. 

As much as Hubert would’ve liked to smother Adrestia’s Prime Minister with a pillow, he knew it was best to be patient and wait for Ludwig to depart. He walked towards Ferdinand’s bedroom, concealing himself in the shadows. He poked his head around a corner just in time to see Ludwig exit and lock Ferdinand in his room, before stomping in the other direction towards his office. Hubert waited until he was out of sight before approaching Ferdinand’s door. Hubert could’ve picked the lock with his eyes closed. It only took seconds for the lock to pop open and for Hubert to poke his head in. He was immediately greeted by amber eyes filled with tears. 

“Hubert?” Ferdinand sniffled. “Wha—” Hubert put his finger to his own lips in an effort for Ferdinand to be quiet. He slipped into the room and carefully closed the door behind him. “H-how did you get in here?” 

“I picked the lock.” Hubert said nonchalantly. Then his voice softened. “Are you okay?” 

“Yes. Why would I not be?”  Said Ferdinand trying to hold back his tears. 

“Because your father just screamed at you and locked you in your room.” 

“So you heard him?” Ferdinand said glumly.

Hubert nodded.  “I think all of Enbarr heard him.”

Ferdinand hung his head and muttered.  “I only said I think I would look good with long hair.” 

Hubert tried to sound reassuring. “I wouldn’t worry about his opinion. What does your father know about hair anyway? He’s bald.” Ferdinand gave Hubert a small smile.  “Would you like me to read to you?” Hubert suggested but Ferdinand shook his head. Hubert frowned. Usually reading aloud to Ferdinand put him in a better mood. What could he do to cheer him up? He hated seeing his friend upset. He looked like a kicked puppy. Then Hubert was struck with an idea. “Ferdinand…You like animals, right?” Ferdinand nodded. “I remember Edelgard telling me that being around animals sometimes cheered her up. Something about providing emotional support.” Hubert tried to recall what his lady had said to him. 

“Really? Any animal?” Ferdinand asked. Hubert had no idea, but Ferdinand didn’t need to know that. 

“Yes, any animal will do.” Hubert said, hoping he sounded more confident than he felt. 

“Where shall we find an animal? Do we need to catch one?” 

“That won’t be necessary. There are horses in the stables.” He turned towards the door but realized he forgot to ask an important question. “Ferdinand, do you even like horses?” Hubert hoped Ferdinand did because he definitely didn’t want to spend the day trying to catch a wild squirrel or bird. 

“I…I suppose so.” Ferdinand sounded unsure. “They look very pretty. And I like seeing them in my storybooks. But I have never gotten to see one up close. Father made me stay away because the smell might get on my clothes. I have only really seen them when we ride behind them in a carriage.” 

“Then follow me.” Hubert said as confidently as he could as he reached for the door. 

***

“They are much bigger close up.” Ferdinand looked up in awe. 

“Don’t worry, they can’t hurt you, the gates are locked so they cannot get out.” Hubert reassured him. He took Ferdinand’s hand and led him to the horse who he thought looked the friendliest. 

“Hello Mister Horse—” Ferdinand said shyly and hesitantly approached the horse. 

“This horse is a girl.” Hubert whispered as if the horse could overhear and understand him.

“Oh! My deepest apologies.” Ferdinand sounded contrite as he stepped closer and bowed his head low. “ Hello Miss Horse, I am Ferdinand von A—” 

As soon as he got close enough, the horse started to nibble at Ferdinand’s hair. Startled by the touch, he lifted his head up to look up at the horse, who then took this opportunity to lick and nip at Ferdinand’s face.  “Stop that!” Hubert exclaimed as he wrapped his arms protectively around Ferdinand and pulled him out of the horse’s reach. Hubert glared at the horse, annoyed that the stupid animal just tried to eat his friend, but more annoyed that his plan to cheer Ferdinand up was now ruined. “I’m sorry, Ferdinand. I didn’t think it would treat you like a piece of fruit.” Then Hubert noticed that Ferdinand was grinning from ear to ear. He practically leapt from Hubert’s arms back to the horse who then continued to cover Ferdinand’s face with horse spit. He enthusiastically patted and nuzzled the horse’s muzzle. 

“Hubert, look! Miss Horse likes me!” He squealed with joy. 

Even though Hubert later went out of his way to find out the horse’s real name, the name Miss Horse stuck. Ferdinand insisted on visiting Miss Horse whenever they had a chance. And the happiness it brought Ferdinand had Hubert enjoying the visits too. 

1171

After their first meeting in the gardens, Hubert had first assumed he would only see Ferdinand again in passing or at formal events where many noble families would be in attendance. It only took a few days for Hubert to have completely forgotten about the amber haired boy. So a week later, he was completely caught off guard when there was an unfamiliar knock at his bedroom door. He opened it only to be greeted by the little ray of sunshine. Every few days Ferdinand would try to get Hubert to spend time with him, and every time Hubert would brush him off. He still didn’t understand why this boy kept trying to spend time with him. No one had tried to befriend Hubert before. Except Edelgard. Finally Hubert asked him outright.  

“Why do you keep coming back here?” 

“Because you are here.” Ferdinand said simply. 

“But why me?” 

“I’ve always wanted a friend. And you looked like you could use one too.” Ferdinand came to visit him almost every day for a moon before Hubert finally stopped turning him away. 

In a way, Edelgard was the one who sparked a tentative friendship between the two of them. One of Hubert’s most embarrassing memories was when he screamed in his face opened up about his pain of Edelgard’s absence to Ferdinand, who at the time was a complete stranger. Maybe that’s why it was easier. Or maybe Hubert thought since the cold shoulder wasn’t keeping Ferdinand away, he could try unleashing all of his pent up rage and sadness at the younger boy to scare him off. But it didn’t. And as Ferdinand continued to visit him, Hubert started to think that it might be okay if Ferdinand stuck around. Eventually they (yes, Hubert too) made an effort to see each other almost every day for the next five years. 

***

Hubert had just turned sixteen when Edelgard finally returned to Enbarr. And everything changed. She had changed, not only in age and appearance. She was no longer the happy young girl Hubert remembered from five years ago. Now she wore the face of someone who had endured tragedy after tragedy. After she was forced to watch her siblings die or go mad one by one, she had no choice but to harden her heart. She had the eyes of a child who was forced to grow up too fast. Hubert knew that face; it matched his own. He knew that he could never replace her mother or siblings, but he promised himself that he would spend the rest of his life loving her since her family could not. And he swore an oath that he would protect her with everything he had. 

But Ferdinand was still Ferdinand. Blissfully unaware of the horrors that Edelgard and her siblings had faced, that Edelgard was still facing. He was living the life that Edelgard should have had, but was cruelly stripped away. He had good intentions; he was just trying to make friends the only way he knew how. Unlike Edelgard and Hubert, Ferdinand had not had to grow up yet. 

“Hubert! The weather is so lovely, I thought it would be fun to go for a ride. Would you and Edelgard like to join me?” Ferdinand asked hopefully. 

“I’m sorry, Lady Edelgard is busy.” Hubert knew she was still too weak for any strenuous activities and was trying to keep anyone from learning that fact. 

“Then would you like to go for a ride with me? We could visit Miss Horse.” 

“I’m sorry, I need to stay with Lady Edelgard.” Hubert said stiffly, although a small part of him longed to go. 

“I understand. Maybe next time.” Ferdinand said as he gave Hubert a sad smile, and then turned to walk back to the Aegir mansion, his shoulders now slightly slumped. Hubert hated turning Ferdinand away. It’s not about what I want, it’s about what’s best for Lady Edelgard. He told himself over and over. He felt ashamed that he had neglected his duty for so long. The last five years had been an indulgence. It wasn’t Ferdinand’s fault that Hubert was unable to protect Edelgard. But every time he saw Ferdinand he was reminded of his failure. 

Every few days Ferdinand would visit the Palace…

“Would you and Edelgard like to join me for a tea party? I will bring some coffee just for you.” 

”While I was in town, I think I saw a water nymph singing in one of the public fountains! I can show you and Edelgard where I saw her.” 

“It is the perfect weather to go for a stroll. Would you and Edelgard care to accompany me? We can pick flowers.” 

“Tomorrow night is the opening night of Manuela Casagranda’s newest performance, would you and Edelgard like to attend with me?” 

“Would you and Edelgard like to go fishing? What about…swimming? Umm…skipping rocks?” 

…And every time Hubert would turn him away. 

Hubert just finished brushing his lady’s hair, when he heard her mumble. 

“Not again.” He followed her gaze out the window. Unsurprisingly, they both watched a familiar figure with bright amber hair making his way to the entrance. Once Hubert did try suggesting that it might be nice for Edelgard to spend time with Ferdinand. That was the day that Edelgard revealed that the Prime Minister Ludwig von Aegir, Ferdinand’s father, had played a key role in the atrocities done to her and her siblings. It was clear that Ferdinand was in no way involved in his father’s terrible deeds, but it was still difficult for Edelgard to face him. Hubert never brought it up again. 

“I don’t understand why he is always coming here. We’ve never even met before. He’s just like all the other nobles who only gave my father the time of day because he’s the Emperor.” Edelgard said bitterly. “It’s not like he actually cares.” Hubert never told Edelgard that he and Ferdinand were “friends'' and had spent almost every day together for the past five years. In truth, Hubert was ashamed of their friendship. While the Hresvelg children were put through who knows what kind of horrors beneath the palace, he had been having tea parties and partaking in other frivolous activities with Ferdinand. Ashamed that while Edelgard was suffering at the hands of Duke Aegir, he had been with his son making fond memories. Fond memories that Hubert did not deserve. 

“I just wish he would stay away.” Edelgard mumbled to herself. 

“As you wish, Lady Edelgard.” Hubert said and slowly slipped into the shadows. If his lady wished for Ferdinand to go away and stay away, he would do everything in his power to make it happen. 

***

Ferdinand was about to grab at the door knocker when Hubert wrenched open the door before he could knock. Ferdinand smiled. 

“Hello Hu—” 

“Ferdinand, go away!” Hubert said sharply and straight to the point. 

“What? W-why?” Ferdinand’s usual smile turned to confusion. 

“Because you are not wanted here. I don’t understand how you haven’t figured that out yet. Why do you keep coming back?” Something in Hubert’s chest tightened uncomfortably as he watched Ferdinand’s face fall. 

“Because you are here. And you are my friend.” Ferdinand’s voice trembled. “A-and I know h-how important Edelgard is to you. You always spoke so highly of her. And since we have never met in person, I-I thought that w-we could be friends too.” Ferdinand’s lip quivered. 

“We are not friends! Why would I want you as a friend?! I have Lady Edelgard. She is superior to you in every possible way. You are not wanted here! Go away, Ferdinand!” Without giving Ferdinand a chance to respond, Hubert slammed the door in his face. A couple seconds later he opened it again. Ferdinand hadn’t moved. Hubert forced himself to make eye contact, ignoring the look of hurt that Ferdinand was giving at him. “And do not come back!” Hubert snarled as he slammed the door shut again.

It took him a moment to realize that his heart was racing. He leaned against the door and slid to the floor, hugging his knees to his chest. Why did it feel so painful to say such hurtful words to his friend? All he did was carry out his lady’s wishes. And she would always come first. Edelgard didn’t want Ferdinand to visit the palace, because seeing him brought back traumatic memories for her. He knew first hand how stubborn Ferdinand could be when he set his mind to befriending someone. His friendship with Ferdinand had a similar start. Ferdinand tried to visit him day after day until finally, Hubert relented. He knew he couldn’t just reveal the truth to Ferdinand why Edelgard didn’t wish to befriend him. And he knew the younger boy would not accept a simple, “your presence brings Lady Edelgard distress, please do not visit again.” And it’s not like Hubert could just explain “your father who you love and respect, had Lady Edelgard and her siblings tortured to the point where all her siblings died.” It had been two moons since Ferdinand had first tried to befriend Edelgard and he was still making attempts despite being rejected every time. Ferdinand needed to stop coming to the Palace and Hubert had seen to it that he wouldn’t try again. So why did Hubert feel like crying? 

Ferdinand didn’t come back. 

But Hubert knew he made the right choice to stay by Edelgard’s side. Moons went by before she started to open up to him about her time in captivity underground, beneath the Imperial Palace. Just hearing about the relentless terror and trauma she experienced made him sick to his stomach. But she had survived and much to Hubert’s relief, Edelgard was slowly growing stronger as more time passed. Something had awoken inside her. Words spoken in fear were now spoken with defiance and conviction. What happened to her could never be allowed to happen to anyone else again. But it was more than that. It wasn’t just about taking down those responsible for experimenting and violating Edelgard and her siblings. The Church of Seiros was perpetuating a corrupt system. Preaching that those with Crests were superior to those without. But she would change that. She would change the world. She would tear out all corruption by its roots. Even if her enemies were the gods themselves—she would reforge the world. 

As more time continued to pass, what started as obligation and duty, turned into loyalty and devotion. Hubert vowed he would do anything and everything in his power to see her goals achieved. He would take out anyone who dared to stand in her way. Her vision for a better future was something Hubert wanted too. And he liked the idea of actually doing something to make the change he wanted happen, rather than sitting back and waiting for it. They would walk the same path, side by side. They would stride ever forward, yielding to nothing and to no one. Edelgard’s ideas for the future had Hubert feeling hopeful. And if it made him think of another individual who also had grand, albeit idealistic, ideas for a bright future, that was his secret. (“When I am Prime Minister, I will work hard to make sure everyone has food to eat and their favorite tea to drink. And no one will ever be sad again because I shall gift them their own horse!”)

Feelings of guilt bubbled to the surface every time he thought of Ferdinand, which was more than he cared to admit. He always kept his ear open for any news of Ferdinand, but never heard anything important. A child who always follows the rules and completes his expected duties is not a good source for hot gossip, even if he was the son of the Prime Minister. Hubert would’ve checked on Ferdinand himself, but he refused to leave Edelgard’s side. She needed him and he promised he would always be there for her. Ferdinand had distracted him from his promise before, and he would not let it happen again. He didn’t regret his last words to Ferdinand. Maybe his approach had been harsh, but it got him the results he wanted. I simply did what had to be don—

“Hubert, did you hear me?” Hubert was pulled from his thoughts by Edelgard’s voice. 

“Apologies, Lady Edelgard. My mind was…elsewhere. What did you say?” 

“I asked if there is anything you would like to do for your birthday? It’s in a few weeks.” 

“That will not be necessary, I—” 

“Hubert,” Edelgard interrupted. “You are always tending to my needs. Is there anything you wish for?” 

“My only wish is to see you safe and happy.” And he meant it. 

“Then for my own happiness, I want to do something special for your seventeenth birthday. You’re very important to me; you’re the only real family I have left.” Her sincere gaze had Hubert feeling flustered. It was very rare for him to feel embarrassed. He only knew how to respond one of two ways: aggressively lashing out or going completely silent. For this occasion, Hubert chose the latter. When it was clear that he would not respond, Edelgard tried another approach. “What did you do for your last birthday?”

“Nothing special.” He said quietly, unable to look her in the eye. Edelgard resisted the urge to groan in frustration. She should’ve known that would be his answ—

“But F—Duke Aegir’s son insisted he throw me a tea party.” Hubert wasn’t sure why he mentioned this to her, he never spoke of his time with Ferdinand before. But the truth was that he missed his friend. He hadn’t seen or spoken to Ferdinand at all in the last seven moons. Or was it eight? 

“Tea party? Aegir?” Edelgard seemed to ponder this. “That is quite surprising. You are telling me that you willingly spent time with Duke Aegir’s son?” 

“He didn’t give me much of a choice.” Hubert said, which was technically not a lie because Ferdinand had surprised him. 

“Well that makes more sense. Perhaps he wanted the opportunity to show off to another heir of a noble house.” Edelgard half joked. “Well that must have gone poorly because I know how you feel about tea.” 

“It did taste quite awful.” Hubert replied, but didn't mention that he still tried a sip of every kind of tea that Ferdinand presented to him because it made the younger boy so happy. 

“At least allow me to go into town soon and purchase a gift for you.” Edelgard pleaded. 

“If you insist—”

“I do.” 

“—I will escort you, whenever you like.” 

“You can’t come with me, Hubert. It’s meant to be a surprise.” Her voice was firm. 

“Lady Edelgard, I do not think that you should go alone.” 

“I won’t go alone, I'll have guards to watch over me. But you cannot come with me.” 

“But—”

“No buts.” 

***

While Edelgard went into town, Hubert took the opportunity to visit the Aegir manor. He wanted to see how Ferdinand was for himself. Hubert would’ve preferred to just sneak into the manor and look for Ferdinand by himself. He had done it plenty of times in the past. But it felt wrong to drop in unannounced, especially considering how their last interaction went all those moons ago. Pushing down feelings of uncomfort, Hubert knocked on the front door. He was greeted by one of the maids. 

“You’re looking for Master Ferdinand? I’m very sorry to tell you this, but he left ‘bout a week ago.” 

“I see. When will he be back?” He said, hoping his disappointment wasn’t showing on his face. 

“Apologies, but I don’t know. He was enrolled in the Royal Academy of Sorcery.” 

“He’s in Fhirdiad?!” Hubert couldn’t keep the shock out of his voice. Hearing this made his skin crawl. Fhirdiad was the last place Edelgard had been taken to before her innocence and her siblings both perished. And if it was Ludwig’s own idea to send him there, that made it ten times worse. “Did Duke Aegir have him sent there?!” Hubert couldn't help but ask outright. 

“Afraid I don’t know that either. There anything else I can help you with?” 

“No. Please excuse me.” Hubert gave a polite nod and turned to walk away and back towards the Palace. It shouldn’t matter. My duty is to Lady Edelgard not Ferdinand. 

He was just walking past a large window of the Aegir manor when he heard someone speak Ferdinand’s name. He pressed his body close to the wall to not be seen. He recognized the voice of the maid who had greeted him at the door. She was talking to someone else. Probably another maid. 

“—told him that Master Ferdinand was sent to the Royal Academy.”

“It was actually Master Ferdiand’s idea to be sent there.” A different voice corrected. Hubert sighed in relief. At least it wasn’t Ludwig’s idea. 

“Oh, I do hope that this new environment will lift his spirits.” 

“Do you know why he’s been so down these last few moons? I’ve asked everyone and no one can give me an answer. Did something happen?” 

“I don’t know. Such a shame, he used to be such a lively boy.” 

“Maybe he was lonely? Hopefully he will make some friends at his new school.” 

“If I dunno any better, I’d say someone broke his heart.” 

The feeling of uncertainty uncomfortably bubbled in Hubert’s chest. At the time, his harsh approach seemed to be the right one. Ferdinand wouldn’t have listened to him if he had just politely asked him to stay away. Right? Or maybe he would have? Maybe he did regret his last words to Ferdinand. Hubert wasn’t so sure anymore. I’ll apologize next time I see him. 

Unbeknownst to Hubert, they wouldn't see each other for another three years.

Chapter Text

1176

“What about this one?” Ferdinand asked as he looked at Hubert with wide and hopeful eyes. Hubert warily eyed yet another teacup filled with hot brown leaf water. He lifted it to his lips and took a small sip. 

“Gross.” He stated plainly. “I might as well be drinking from a puddle.”

Ferdinand’s shoulders sagged for a moment in disappointment. But just as quickly he perked up with a determined look on his face. 

“No matter. There are still more teas for you to try.” 

Ferdinand had been shocked when Hubert told him he never had anything to drink besides water. (“It’s harder to poison,” Hubert said defensively.) So the next week, when Hubert’s sixteenth  birthday came up, Ferdinand threw him a surprise birthday tea party. Ferdinand made it his personal mission to find the tea that Hubert liked the most. Unfortunately this was proving harder than expected because so far he didn’t seem to like any of the teas that Ferdinand had given him. 

“Ferdinand, this really isn’t necessary for you to go through all this trouble…and all this tea, just for me,” Hubert said as he looked at about a dozen boxes of different teas sitting on the table. “Just because you’re a tea fanatic, doesn’t mean I will be.” 

“Nonsense. This is a special occasion. I admit that this is harder than I expected, but I will not give up. I, Ferdinand von Aegir, vow that I will find a drink that you like. And then we can have tea parties! Wait right here and I will go fetch another for you to try,” said Ferdinand as he walked out of the room and towards the kitchen.

A couple seconds later, he ran back into the room. “And I am not a tea fanatic, Hubert! I am a tea enthusiast. Or a tea comma sir. A great lover of tea. It is not my fault I have a refined palate.” He huffed before exiting the room again.

”it’s connoisseur, not comma sir.” Hubert called after him, smirking to himself . Ferdinand returned about ten minutes later. But instead of carrying more boxes of tea, he carried a single cup with a liquid so dark it was almost black. “Try this one.” Again, Hubert eyed the teacup suspiciously. At least it smelled interesting. 

“Why is it so dark?” 

“I thought you would like a drink that better matches your soul.” Ferdinand joked. Hubert rolled his eyes as Ferdinand giggled mischievously. Resigned to his fate of drinking all the tea in the Aegir residence, he took a small sip. And another. And then another. 

“This is probably the best one so far. I think I actually like it.” Hubert took another sip. “So what flavor is it?” Hubert looked at Ferdinand expecting him to look victorious, but was surprised to see him staring back at him with wide horrified eyes as if Hubert had just intentionally drank poison. 

“It…it’s coffee.” 

1180 

The next time Hubert saw Ferdinand was at Garreg Mach Monastery. Hubert was familiarizing himself with the layout of the monastery gardens when he thought he saw a familiar head of red hair. That sight alone was enough to activate Hubert’s fight or flight response, causing him to run make a strategic retreat behind a nearby bush that he had to crouch behind to stay out of sight. Of course he already knew that Ferdinand was enrolled in the Officers Academy. But he didn’t think he needed to prepare to see his old childhood friend after so many years. The time they spent together all those years ago was past them. They would have a civil exchange and go their separate ways. But playing out an imagined scenario in his head was much easier than facing the real thing. And it would seem that Hubert wasn’t handling the real thing very well. (The bush he was hiding behind would agree if it could). After taking a moment to collect himself, Hubert peeked his head out to get a better look. The redhead’s back was to Hubert and he appeared to be in deep conversation with another male student with dark blue hair. Suddenly, the blue haired one huffed loudly, pushed past Ferdinand, who turned around and—

Now that Hubert could see his face, that was definitely not Ferdinand. The redhead who was not Ferdinand called out as he started to jog after the other student. 

“Oh c’mon, Felix! It was a joke. Felix! Feeeeelix!” Hubert let out the breath he didn’t realize he had been holding as he watched them walk away. What does it matter even if that was Ferdinand? Ferdinand had probably just grown up to be another pompous and entitled noble. He probably still likes to shout his own name. He probably doesn’t know the meaning of hardship. He probably hasn’t helped anyone except himself these past few years. He probably still considers his inheritance a personality trait. Maybe time was hard on him and he has grown ugly since the last time Hubert saw him. Normally Hubert wasn’t one to judge people based on their appearances, but in this moment his mind was set on thinking of any reason to dislike Ferdinand. 

“So why are we hiding?” Whispered a voice to his right. 

Hubert jerked his head towards the voice and suddenly found himself nose to nose with the one and only Ferdinand von Aegir. Hubert had been so focused on figuring out if that other student was Ferdinand that he completely missed the footsteps of the real Ferdinand coming up behind him. Ferdinand had crouched down to Hubert’s level and was grinning from ear to ear. His face was only inches away from Hubert’s. So much for being ugly. 

“Fer—” Hubert jerked away so suddenly that he lost his balance and started to fall backwards. Without a second thought, Ferdinand grabbed hold of Hubert’s arm to keep him from toppling over. 

“Hello Hubert! I am sorry to have startled you.” He said, still holding onto Hubert’s arm. 

Hubert took a moment to steady himself so he wouldn’t fall over like a baby taking its first steps. To be caught off guard and by Ferdinand of all people. How embarrassing. He wrenched his arm out of Ferdinand’s grasp. 

“I wasn’t startled!” He spat. 

Ferdinand gave him an unconvinced look and stood up. He held out a helping hand, but Hubert swatted it away and hastily stood up. 

“What do you want, Aegir?” Hubert snapped, trying to put extra bite into his name. Ferdinand’s smile wilted a little.

“I merely wished to greet you, old friend. I saw you duck behind this bush and did not wish to disturb…” Ferdinand gestured haphazardly at the bush. “…whatever it is you are doing.” 

“Anything I do is no one else’s business but mine and Lady Edelgard’s,” Hubert growled. When he mentioned Edelgard’s name, Ferdinand’s smile disappeared altogether. Suddenly a new voice chimed in. 

“Ferdie! There you are.” A petite girl with red hair came running up to them. Why are there so many redheads at this school?! 

“Are you going to introduce me to your friend?” She asked Ferdinand, turning to look at Hubert. She did a little curtsy. “Nice to meet you, I’m A—” 

“He’s not my friend!” Hubert snapped, cutting her off, before turning on his heel and stalking away. So much for a civil exchange. He still heard the rest of their conversation because of his superior hearing. 

“—nnette.” After a beat, she continued on like she wasn’t just rudely interrupted. “Anyway…C’mon Ferdie, Mercie just made some yummy sweets. I said I’d find you and then meet her in the kitchens.” 

“That sounds wonderful. I hope Mercedes has not cleaned up yet. I would like to assist as a thank you. It is the very least I can do.” So much for being unhelpful. 

***

After that disastrous reunion, Hubert prepared to avoid Ferdinand as much as he could. While it was impossible to completely avoid him since they were both in the Black Eagle House, Ferdinand never sought him out outside of the classroom. The only times Ferdinand interacted with Hubert was when Professor Byleth paired them up for stable duty. Ferdinand took these opportunities to show off to their professor and he only acknowledged Hubert when he claimed Hubert was no help. And Hubert would approach him when he saw Ferdinand trying to beat Edelgard at…whatever that fool could think of. This usually ended with him or Ferdinand storming off in frustration. 

“Your nonsense is tiresome, so I hope this will be the last time I have to remind you. Lady Edelgard is the Imperial princess. You are merely the prime minister’s son.” 

“Yes, I understand that. But my duty is to guide her, to give frank advice when she is on the wrong course of action. That is what I strive to do, always. Thus my devotion to surpass Edelgard, so that if she needs guidance, I will be prepared for it. If you think it is tiresome to have a mind of your own, you will never be much of an advisor.” 

“Does the river of filth pouring out of your mouth ever stop flowing? Your obsession with all things superficial is disgusting. It’s no use. You’re hopeless. I’ll take my leave.” 

“I have nothing more to say to you. Get out of here.” 

And even if Hubert didn’t do anything (intentionally) to provoke Ferdinand, he was downright hostile whenever Professor Byleth requested they eat together. 

“Why are we seated beside each other? I cannot enjoy my food with you sitting here.” 

But Hubert couldn't say that he took the high road in those situations. 

“Just shut up and eat.” 

So avoiding Ferdinand was surprisingly easy. Hubert never went to choir practice. With their different fighting styles, their professor never bothered to pair them up for practice or tournaments. It was almost too easy. I know that I’m avoiding Ferdinand, but is it possible that he is avoiding me? Well if Ferdinand was actively avoiding him, that just made his life easier. The information Hubert gathered from the other students showed him that Ferdinand was…a lot. 

It was only the beginning of the school year and already Ferdinand had: 

Claimed to be superior to Edelgard and then challenged her to a duel. 

Sprained his wrist just trying to talk to Bernadetta. 

Insulted Constance and her disgraced house with his arrogance. 

Chased Linhardt around the monastery. (Although being able to get Linhardt to move quickly might prove useful later on. Even Lady Edelgard seemed to struggle with this.)

Managed to get Dorothea to hate him for just existing. 

And had to be rescued by Professor Byleth when he stupidly tried to take on two demonic beasts at the same time. 

Despite those interactions, Ferdinand was quite the social butterfly and seemed to be in the company of at least one other student each time Hubert saw him. He spent most of his time with Annette Fantine Dominic and Mercedes von Martritz from the Blue Lions House. But the person Ferdinand seemed to be around the most was Lorenz Hellman Gloucester from the Golden Deer House. (Not that Hubert was keeping track.) He later found out that the four of them had attended the Royal Academy of Sorcery together and had been friends for the last two years before coming to Garreg Mach. When he subtly probed Mercedes with questions she revealed that Ferdinand mostly kept to himself his first year at the Academy. But that all changed the following year when he became roommates with Lorenz. Well that explains a lot. 

Ferdinand was obnoxious, loud, naive, self-righteous, and a little stuck up. Exactly how Hubert guessed he would become. But he was also generous, open-minded, hardworking, and had a heart of gold. Just how Hubert knew he would become. It was impossible to completely forget about him. But he had more important things to worry about. The Church of Seiros wasn’t going to overthrow itself. The monsters who plagued Fódlan in secret for ages with fabricated miracles and concealed truths needed to be stopped. It was time for humanity to fight for its freedom. There was no turning back. 

Although Hubert strongly disagreed with Edelgard’s decision to put her trust in their mysterious professor, Byleth, he had to admit that having the support of others would make things easier. (Which was the only reason why they had allied themselves with those who slither in the dark). Hubert knew that his private discussions with Edelgard about their future plans and potential allies would inevitably lead to what they intended to do about the position of Prime Minister. So when they discussed potential candidates, Ferdinand’s name inevitably came up. Edelgard didn’t hesitate to write him off as a lost cause. 

“There is no reason to believe he would support us.” Edelgard stated plainly. 

“I wouldn’t be so sure.” Hubert blurted out. Edelgard looked at him like he just suggested they eat the weeds. 

“I must say, I’m surprised, Hubert. I would’ve thought that you of all people would be ready to dismiss him. And besides, what would he have to gain by following us? If all goes according to plan, he will be left with nothing. His father will be under house arrest at best. His Crest will be worthless. He will be stripped of his inheritance. His property and wealth will be seized. He will no longer be guaranteed the position of Prime Minister, something that he believes he’s entitled to. Even his beloved family name will be dragged through the mud. We plan to take away everything that is important to him. But you believe that despite all that, he will still join our cause?” What Hubert said was:

“You are right as always, Lady Edelgard. I spoke without thinking.” Because Edelgard was correct. Ferdinand took great pride in his name and legacy. You only needed to speak to him for a few seconds to know that being a noble was everything to him. If Ferdinand joined them he would gain nothing and lose everything. But what Hubert thought was: 

He will support us because it is the right thing to do.

At least he hoped so. 

***

(I must protect Edelgard.)

The moment Byleth sided with Edelgard, Hubert breathed a sigh of relief. There were no words that could properly express his gratitude. Even if everyone else in the monastery decided to oppose them, Byleth was the most important person to have on their side. Having Byleth’s support helped sway anyone who was still unsure. And a significant number of students who had transferred into the Black Eagle House, stood by their decision to fight with the Empire. Everyone had their own reasoning for joining. Hubert would’ve preferred that everyone was fighting for the same reasons as Edelgard and himself, but he supposed their reasons were of no consequence. The greater their numbers the greater their chance for success. At the end of the day they were all fighting for a better tomorrow. Except Jeritza, he just wanted to kill people. And to everyone’s shock (except Hubert’s) Ferdinand also pledged his loyalty to Edelgard. And Hubert couldn’t help but feel even more at ease. (Even if Ferdinand did say it was because he was the only one left who was qualified to guide Edelgard). 

It also helped sway some people to their side when Rhea, confronted with Byleth’s betrayal, threatened to kill them all and then transformed into a huge dragon. 

***

Emperor Edelgard had made her move. The Church of Seiros and its supporters had fled. Garreg Mach was theirs. But at the end of the battle, Byleth vanished without a trace. Edelgard was devastated. Hubert felt out of his depth. Especially after accidentally overhearing a private conversation between Edelgard and Byleth the night before they attacked the monastery. And while it was his job to listen to everything, he wished he hadn’t heard Edelgard’s words. Curse his sharpened hearing. 

“Because of you, I feel I can walk my fated path without losing myself. If I were alone, I might have lost perspective and become a harsh leader with a heart of ice. But I’m not alone. With you by my side, I’m somehow free to be not only a leader but…simply Edelgard.” 

“I’m glad.” Byleth responded in their usual monotone voice. 

“Until now, no one has been able to surpass me—much less command me. I have always been seen as an untouchable princess or emperor. No one spoke to me as an equal or met my gaze without flinching. It was lonely. Terribly lonely. The only person I could rely on as I tried to claw my way out of the darkness was myself.” 

Another reminder of Hubert’s failure to protect her all those years ago. It stung. It stung because he loved her. Edelgard was the most important person in the world to him. She would always come first. And her goals of a better Fódlan would always come first too, for both of them. Even when Byleth was lost, Edelgard never stopped. She kept moving forward, no matter how painful it was to leave their professor behind. Hubert did his best to give her comfort. 

“So long as I am here, Lady Edelgard, you will never be alone. Please do not forget that.” And as much as he wanted Edelgard to be happy, her success and her happiness were two different things. They weren’t mutually exclusive, but they weren’t the same. He would take matters into his own hands. He didn’t know how to give Edelgard happiness. So he focused on what he could give her: success. He would do everything in his power to see Edelgard’s dreams fulfilled. It had been easy to push his own personal feelings aside. Because what they were fighting for was bigger than the two of them. 

It was only when Hubert was alone with his thoughts, when he allowed doubt to fill his mind. He was doing everything he could think of to see Edelgard’s vision through. But it wasn’t enough. He wasn’t enough. He wasn’t Byleth. He could take out assassins, strategize battle tactics, organize battalions, cast all kinds of dark magic spells…But there was nothing he could do when he noticed that Edelgard’s eyes were red and puffy from crying herself to sleep. There was nothing he could do to fill the hole that Byleth left in his lady’s heart. How was it possible for a single person to bring another person so much joy? Who else would be capable of bringing another person that much happiness? For some reason the color amber flashed through his mind. He never allowed himself to wallow for long. There was too much work to be done. (Of course, Ferdinand had to show up at the wrong moment.) 

“Show them this letter. Threaten them. Do what you must. Now, go.” 

“Hubert, that letter. Is that what I think it was?” 

“I suppose there’s no denying it.” 

“But Edelgard—” 

“Explicitly forbade me to send it. Yes, I know.” 

“I cannot believe it! You disobeyed a direct order? I thought you were her loyal aide.” 

There was something familiar and reassuring when he argued with Ferdinand. Some things never changed. So if he took any opportunity he could to provoke his old classmate…that was only for him to know. As much as Hubert would claim otherwise, he was only human. 

***

1185 

Five years passed in the click of a button blink of an eye. The day the Millennium Festival was meant to be held was the day Byleth finally reappeared. With zero explanation! Hubert thought irritatedly. But truthfully he was grateful for Byleth’s return. Edelgard was overjoyed. She seemed to light up whenever Byleth entered the room. All the Black Eagles noticed it. They even teased her about it, much to Hubert’s dismay. And Hubert couldn’t even find it in himself to be jealous of Byleth. He knew that he was not the one who could give her the emotional support that she needed and deserved. He had accepted that long ago. The truth was that Byleth made Edelgard happy. And that was enough for Hubert. And discounting their five year absence, Hubert found himself learning to trust their old professor again. In fact he was learning to trust all the members of the Black Eagle Strike Force. But one person seemed to stand out. 

“But even so, your relentless optimism…Well. Suffice it to say that it is your best quality.” 

“I…What?” 

“You are constantly striving to grow as a person. To seek new knowledge. To push new limits. When others get distracted or abandon their path, you never yield. In that aspect, at least, I think you are unmatched.” 

“Hubert…Are you all right? Do you have a cold? Or the plague? Am I hearing a deathbed confession?” 

“It was only a compliment. There’s no need for such dramatic exaggeration.” 

“Dramatic, you say?” 

“I do my best to analyze others without emotion. Even if I find you to be a contemptible degenerate, I can still evaluate your abilities in an impartial way.” 

“So because you assess people without emotion, you’re totally confident in your appraisals. It seems I was wrong about you.” 

“Heh. You actually understand.” 

“Please do not compliment me again though. I find it quite unsettling. It is like hearing a snake sing an aria. At least put it in a letter next time.” 

“In the very unlikely event that there is a next time, I promise to put it in writing.”

Hubert could have never guessed that waging war against neighboring territories, overthrowing the Church of Seiros, and trying to destabilize the social order that was established during Adrestia’s infancy, could bring people so close together. The bonds that the Black Eagle Strike Force had forged were unbreakable. And again, Hubert found one particular amber eyed individual stood out from the rest. Even if his taste in drinks had much to be desired. 

“Flaunting my favorite drink, right in front of me! And you do not even drink tea. Fiendish. It is for Edelgard, I assume?” 

“Before I answer that, I would like to know what you are doing with the coffee.” 

“Well, I…”

“Is it a gift? Perhaps for someone you fancy?” 

“A gift, yes. For you.”

”Hm. Who is the unlucky— Did you say for me?! This coffee is a gift for me? Have I heard you correctly?” 

“Yes, that is what I said. A noble does not go back on his word. Just take it.” 

“I should decline.” 

“Why?”

”The thought of receiving a gift from you, unbidden and unreciprocated, fills me with revulsion. Therefore…accept this tea. As a gift. From me.” 

“For me? Are you certain? I would hate to deprive the intended recipient of such a fine tea.” 

“That would be difficult to do, since I bought it with you in mind.” 

“Oh, in that case, thank—What? You were planning to give this to me all along?” 

“That is what I said.” 

After they exchanged gifts and had their respective drinks together, Hubert found himself hoping that this would be the first of many tea (and coffee) times to come. 

The Immaculate One was dead. Under the rule of Emperor Edelgard and the Adrestian Empire, Fódlan was finally one unified nation. Now the real work began. Those who slither in the dark were still at large and they needed to be stopped. 

Chapter Text

1186

“Apologies for being late.” Hubert said as he sat down on his usual chair opposite Ferdinand. “I was held up.” It had become routine. Ever since they exchanged gifts moons ago, Hubert and Ferdinand would take tea in the Palace gardens every Sunday (unless one was away on a mission). Sometimes they would even meet for tea multiple times a week, but due to their busy schedules it was hard to be free at the same time. But they always made sure they were available at the same time on Sundays. 

“Nothing too serious, I hope…” 

“Nothing you haven’t already heard. Just the same discussion on who we should send to represent the Empire for negotiating an alliance with Almyra. I can’t tell if the Almyrans are being this difficult on purpose or if they just like to talk in riddles. Honestly, dismantling the Church of Seiros was easier than this.” Hubert grumbled. 

“Ah, that again. I am sure whoever Edelgard chooses as Adrestia’s representative will do a splendid job. But yes, I am surprised it is taking so long.” Ferdinand said as he passed Hubert his freshly brewed coffee. 

“You could volunteer and save us any more trouble.” Hubert took a sip of his drink. Delicious. “You, Ferdinand von Aegir, noblest of nobles would be a strong candidate. You are one of the highest ranking officials in the Empire. You have many personal connections within Leicester. You thrive in pomp and circumstance. Diplomacy is your area of expertise...” 

“Careful, Hubert. You are starting to sound like you want me to be sent away.” Ferdinand said with mock hurt. 

“Was I being that obvious?” Hubert snickered. Ferdinand laughed. He leaned closer in his seat to Hubert to playfully smack him on the arm. 

“Oh, you fiend!” The two continued their usual banter between sips of tea and coffee. Then after a comfortable silence, Ferdinand spoke up. “But I could not be the one to go. I have no wish to go to Fódlan’s Locket for who knows how long. My place is here in Enbarr. It is my home.” Hubert felt his muscles relax. When did I get so tense? Not totally sure how to respond, Hubert hummed in acknowledgement and kept his eyes focused on his coffee. After a moment, Ferdinand gently reached out and put a warm hand on Hubert’s hand that had just been resting on the table. “And I would miss you.” Hubert felt his face heat up as he looked into Ferdinand’s soft amber eyes, and tried to think of how to respond. What should I say? I’d miss you too. No, too obvious. Enbarr wouldn’t be the same without you. No, too sentimental. I know. No, too harsh. Thank you. No, too stupid. Why is it taking me so long to form a response?! Then never leave my side. No, too much. I’ve definitely made him uncomfortable by staring at him for too long. How is Ferdinand able to reduce me into a stuttering mess—

“Prime Minister Aegir. Minister Vestra.” The two looked up as a messenger approached them. Much to Hubert’s disappointment, Ferdinand quickly withdrew his hand. “I apologize for interrupting, but I have a message for Minister Vestra, from the Emperor.” He held out a small piece of paper, which Hubert took and unfolded. He recognized Edelgard’s hurried shorthand. 

Byleth has returned, come at earliest convenience  

“Her Majesty just requests my presence.” He said out loud so Ferdinand wouldn’t assume there was an emergency. He tucked the note into one of his pockets. He was about to tell the messenger that he would go see Edelgard in fifteen minutes (he wasn’t finished with his coffee) when Ferdinand answered for him. 

“Ah, well if Edelgard is in need of you, you must be in a hurry to finish up here.” He turned to the messenger. “Please tell the Emperor, Minister Vestra will be there at once.” The messenger gave a small bow and then took off in the direction of the Palace. 

“I can help you clean up.” Hubert said not wanting to cut their tea time short. Ferdinand casually waved him off. 

“That is kind of you to offer, but I know that you must be itching to see Edelgard as soon as possible. I will see you at the council meeting with the Strike Force in a couple of hours.” He smiled, but Hubert thought it looked a little resigned. 

“Until then.” Hubert downed the rest of his coffee in one gulp. There’s no point in wasting the coffee Ferdinand took the time to make for me. Hubert got up from his chair and started to follow the messenger back towards the Palace. After a few steps he couldn’t help but look back at Ferdinand. The other man looked rather pensive, sitting alone, quietly sipping his tea. But when he looked up and saw Hubert staring at him, he smiled brightly and gave Hubert a little wave. Embarrassed at being caught, Hubert turned back and quickened his pace towards the Palace. 

***

“I’m sorry, I believe I misheard you.” Hubert said as he stared daggers towards Byleth, who was completely unfazed by his death glare and stared back with their dark blue eyes. “Because there is no way you just said you wanted to involve the rest of the Black Eagle Strike Force in our highly top secret meetings about those who slither in the dark.” 

“You didn’t mishear me. That is exactly what I said. I think we should include the rest of the Black Eagles in all future meetings regarding them.” When their suggestion was met with silence from both Edelgard and Hubert, they continued on. “They’ve already crossed paths with Kronya and Solon. We don’t need to reveal every single detail. But they should know that there are more people like them at large.” 

“One of the main reasons why the Strike Force are safe from those who slither in the dark is because they don’t know anything about them. When Her Majesty and I decided to ally ourselves with them, it was agreed that none of the Strike Force would be harmed as long as they remained ignorant to their existence.” 

“Your alliance ended the moment Rhea was struck down. Do you really trust them to keep such promises? The Black Eagles can be trusted. Each one of them has proven that over and over. They would want to help you. So why not get their support? Where’s the harm?” 

“Where is the harm?!” Hubert spat. “The harm would be everywhere! It’s too dangerous!” 

“They just helped you win a war. They’ve proven they can handle it.” 

“They shouldn’t have to handle it! Her Majesty and I have dealt with those who slither in the dark ourselves before; we can do it again.” 

“And what if something were to happen to either one of you? All your information on the enemy would be gone. Surely you have considered this possibility?” When neither of them answered right away, Byleth continued. “I know you’re trying to protect them. I want to protect them too. But the reality is our enemy will continue to be a threat whether the rest of the Black Eagles knows about the danger or not. And if they aren’t stopped soon, a lot more people are going to get hurt. My last reconnaissance mission shows that they are on the move just waiting for the right moment to strike. They are going after Crests. And since many of the Black Eagles are Crest bearers they should be prepared.” Byleth stood up and walked over to stand beside Edelgard. Hubert crossed his arms unmoved. “El…” Byleth took her hands in theirs. “I know this is hard. You have been fighting against them since you were a child. No one is forcing you to share your personal history if you don’t want to. All I’m saying is after everything the Black Eagles have helped you achieve, they should know that the danger isn’t gone. They should know what’s out there and what they’re up against.” Edelgard seemed to ponder this. 

“Your Majesty, you cannot be serious. We have already discussed this. Involving more people would put them in dang—” 

“They’re already in danger.” Byleth interrupted. “They have fought at your side, and we all know that they will do it again. This is their fight too. And as your old professor, I would just like to say, you always had the most success when you all worked as a team. You both know what they are all capable of. ” 

“Your Majesty, this is absurd. There’s nothing to think about because—” Hubert began, but Edelgard raised her hand to silence him. Now she looked at Hubert with wistful eyes. 

“It’s only ever been just you and me, my dear friend. It was supposed to be the two of us against the world.” She let out a deep breath. “I think I’ve forgotten how to let other people in.” 

“You let me in.” Countered Byleth. Edelgard looked at her old teacher and gave them a small smile. 

“Didn’t have much of a choice.” Hubert mumbled under his breath. But Byleth spoke over him. 

“You don’t need to decide now. Just think about it.” Byleth stood back up and returned to their seat. 

“Your Majesty—” Hubert began, but Edelgard interrupted him. 

“Nothing’s been decided, Hubert.” Then she turned to look at Byleth. “I will think about it.” Hubert huffed in disagreement. Byleth turned their vacant gaze to him. 

“Even you have to admit the Black Eagles are valuable allies, on and off the battlefield. I think you’re underestimating the bonds that you’ve made with them, these past few years. Just look how far you’ve all come. Take you for example…” Hubert’s frown deepened when Byleth pointed their finger directly at him. “Five years ago you wouldn’t give Ferdinand the time of day. And now look at you two.” 

“I—” Hubert tried to interrupt, but Byleth ignored him. He did not like where this was going. 

“Sure, you still argue at times but now you have tea dates together multiple times a week.” Hubert wondered how long it would take for Edelgard to forgive him if he throttled Byleth on the spot. 

“Having tea once a week is no reason to involv—” He suddenly felt the need to make one thing very clear. “And they are not dates!” Hubert protested, but Byleth and Edelgard weren’t listening to him.    

“I suppose Hubert and Ferdinand could always bicker the enemy to death.” Edelgard smirked at Hubert. How humiliating. 

“I always thought they made a cute couple; that’s why I always put them together for stable duty.” Byleth threw in casually. Can this conversation get any worse? 

“If you and Ferdinand get married, may I officiate the wedding?” Teased Edelgard. Apparently yes, it can get worse.

Even to this day, Hubert himself isn’t sure what possessed him to say these next words. Maybe it was the fact that he hadn’t slept in the last twenty four hours. Maybe it was because his body had reached its limit of how much coffee it could take. Maybe it was due to his embarrassment of being teased by his Emperor. Maybe it was because the rational part of Hubert’s brain tended to malfunction if Ferdinand was involved. 

“THERE IS NOTHING BETWEEN ME AND FERDINAND!” Hubert roared. “AND THERE NEVER WILL BE!” 

Hubert closed his eyes, pinched the bridge of his nose, and sat down. When did I stand up? The tension in the room was palpable. No one spoke for a few minutes. The room was so thick with tension, Hubert half wished he could just suffocate on it. There were worse ways to go. He was just about to apologize for his outburst and leave with what little dignity he had left, when the door swung violently open, revealing an always energetic Caspar. 

“Good afternoon everybody!” In the heat of the discussion, none of them realized how much time had passed. The council meeting between the Black Eagle Strike Force was scheduled to begin. 

“Good afternoon, Caspar.” Said Byleth, their tone revealing nothing. 

The rest of the Strike Force slowly started to file in. Everyone except Ferdinand. Edelgard looked at the door. 

“That’s odd. Usually Ferdinand is one of the first to arriv— ah, welcome Prime Minister, now that everyone is here, let us begin.” Edelgard said as Ferdinand walked through the door. 

“Apologies for my tardiness.” Said Ferdinand in a very uncharacteristic solemn voice. He took his seat, forgoing his usual pleasantries. And he didn’t make eye contact with Hubert like he usually did. Strange. 

“First on the agenda.” Edelgard began. “As you all know, we have been having difficulty with negotiating an agreement with Almyra. I still believe that we need only to communicate openly with them and respect the differences between our cultures. I wish to establish a meaningful dialogue. The King has requested we send an Adrestian envoy to Fódlan’s Locket to discuss the terms of the alliance in person. Duke Goneril has done a fine job so far, but he has also asked for additional assistance by the end of the moons. Lorenz and Ignatz have…”

Hubert’s mind drifted to his previous conversation with Byleth. Hubert and Edelgard decided a long time ago that involving anyone with those who slither in the dark was out of the question. But that was then. Would it truly be so bad to involve the others? Then images of the javelins of light and a decimated Arianrhod went through his mind. No. It was just too dangerous. Hubert looked at Ferdinand and tried to catch his eye. But Ferdinand was busy taking notes and did not look up at all. He thought about the last time Ferdinand refused to meet his eyes. 

1186

6 moons earlier…

The war had been won.  The Black Eagles were all celebrating. Ferdinand had just been appointed as the Prime Minister of a united Fódlan. Edelgard put a lot of thought into that decision. (Hubert didn’t have to.) Stripping the previous Prime Minister of his power was easy. But the country wasn’t going to stop everything and wait for them to find a suitable replacement. The people of Fódlan needed a prime minister who could provide them with support and help keep order now, especially during this tentative peacetime. So Ferdinand was chosen to be the Prime Minister because they knew that he was capable of handling the responsibility, and would act in accordance with the people’s needs and wishes. Not because he was the previous Prime Minister’s son and not because he had a Crest. After Ferdinand, the title of prime minister would no longer be passed down the Aegir bloodline. 

The party was smaller in scale, with only members of the Black Eagle Strike Force in attendance. Hubert watched the celebration from the shadows. Eventually he moved onto an unoccupied balcony for a few minutes of peace. 

“Hubert!” A familiar voice rang out. So much for peace and quiet. But Hubert didn’t actually have it in him to feel annoyed. 

“Prime Minister.” He turned towards Ferdinand and gave a polite bow. 

“Oh, not you too.” Ferdinand whined. “Everyone keeps calling me that.” He walked over to Hubert and stood in front of him, hands on his hips. 

Hubert smirked. “Then I’m afraid I have some bad news. There will be more people who are going to call you by your new title.” 

Ferdinand rolled his eyes. “In a formal setting, yes of course. But on an occasion like this one, I wish my close friends would just call me Ferdinand. At least Dorothea still calls me Ferdie.” He was quiet for a moment before adding, “and you had better not address me by my new title when we have our Sunday tea time.” He pouted. Hubert thought he looked adorable. 

“I wouldn’t dream of it, Prime Minister.” Hubert said smugly. Ferdinand’s hand lightly swatted at Hubert’s chest. “How ignoble of you, Prime Minister.” Hubert said in mock offense. He placed his hand over the spot that Ferdinand had touched for dramatic effect. (Not because the place Ferdinand had touched suddenly grew warmer.) 

“You are impossible.” Ferdinand grumbled and started towards the door that led back inside. 

Suddenly Ferdinand stopped and spun around. 

“Wait, I almost forgot why I even came out here in the first place.” He walked back to Hubert, leaving little room between them.  “I have never done this before, so I am not really sure what I am doing. But you always appreciate a straightforward approach, so I suppose it would be best to just ask you.” Hubert gave him a questioning look. Ferdinand took a deep breath. “Hubert von Vestra, will you do me the honor of allowing me to court you?” What could have only been a few seconds, felt like hours to Hubert. He waited for Ferdinand to finish his joke, but the look on his face made it clear that Ferdinand was waiting for an answer. 

“S-surely, y-you jest.” Hubert stuttered. 

“Not at all.” The look that Ferdinand gave him, told Hubert he was nothing but sincere. 

“This is…rather unexpected.” He had to remind himself that there was no way Ferdinand would be able to tell that his heart was now beating rapidly. 

“Unexpected? I thought I was being rather obvious with my affections. Surely you have noticed.” 

“Noticed what?” 

“You must know. Your skills of observation are the best in all of Fódlan. And as you always like to remind me, I am not subtle.” His look softens as he takes Hubert’s hand in his. “Hubert. You are precious to me.” Hubert had been called many things before. Precious was not one of them. When he didn’t respond, Ferdinand asked, “Have you truly not noticed?” 

Of course he noticed. How could he not notice? He noticed that whenever Ferdinand walked past Linhardt sleeping in a random spot at the Palace, he would make a quick detour and return shortly with a pillow (sometimes a blanket too if it was cold). He noticed that whenever Ferdinand found the time to bake treats for Dorothea, he would make extras for Lysithea. He noticed that whenever Ferdinand went to talk to Bernadetta, he would stand outside her room and talk to her through her closed door like that was a completely normal way to have a conversation. He noticed the time Ferdinand had a private room made up for Marianne who had fallen sick while she was visiting Enbarr. He made sure the room was on the ground floor, and then had stable hands bring Marianne’s horse Dorte to her window several times a day so she could still see her beloved horse without having to leave her room. 

So yes, he noticed. He noticed that Ferdinand was kind, caring, and generous to everyone. How was he supposed to know that Ferdinand had feelings for him? Logically Hubert knew that Ferdinand cared for him to a certain extent. He just never let himself consider that Ferdinand’s feelings might go further. And really what were the chances that someone as bright and beautiful as Ferdinand could love someone like him? The truth was that Hubert never let himself dwell on Ferdinand and his personal feelings. Not because the thought of Ferdinand being in love with someone else made his chest tighten uncomfortably. Not because that inevitably resulted in him wasting time just daydreaming about Ferdinand in general. His warm smile. His unwavering conviction. His relentless optimism. His kind heart. Because in the end it didn’t matter. Hubert was the Minister of the Imperial Household, not Minister of Ferdinand von Aegir’s love life. And it mattered even less to Hubert because he loved Edelgard. Right? So really, what was the point of spiraling thinking any further on the matter? 

Except now here he was being blindsided by said bright and beautiful man. Who had just confessed that out of all the people in Fódlan, Hubert was the one he wished to court. And Hubert felt…well he wasn’t really sure what he was feeling. His heart was beating rapidly. His palms were sweating. He was pretty sure his cheeks were flushed. Every coherent thought that he had seemed to vanish from his mind. He felt like he might combust on the spot. 

“Hubert? Are you okay?” Ferdinand’s voice was gentle.  Oh right, Ferdinand. He had to respond. Why couldn’t he think of anything to say?!  Now Ferdinand looked worried as he waved a hand in front of Hubert’s unblinking eye.  “Huuuberrrtt. Oh dear. Please say something.” 

“I…I…um.” Hubert still couldn’t get any words out. He clung tighter to the only thing he had to keep himself grounded. Ferdinand’s hand. When he tightened his grip, Ferdinand’s smile widened ever so slightly. He looked so…hopeful. And Hubert wanted to— He immediately shuts those thoughts down. He had to stop this before it went too far. Before Ferdinand said something Hubert wouldn’t be able to forget. Before he said something that Hubert wouldn’t want to forget. 

“I-I’m sorry, Ferdinand. I can’t.” Hubert finally said. 

“Pardon?” Ferdinand’s smile started to wilt. 

“I have dedicated my life to serving Her Majesty.” 

“Edelgard does not have anything to do with this. This is between you and me.” Ferdinand sounded so earnest. 

“Her Majesty has everything to do with this. My life belongs to her.” 

“I do not believe that. And I do not believe that Edelgard herself believes that.” 

“Nevertheless, it does.” 

“Why? Because that is how it has always been? Is that what you want, Hubert?” 

Hubert was quiet for a while before answering quietly, “Do not ask me what I want.” 

“Why ever not?” Ferdinand sounded indignant. 

“Because what I want does not matter.” 

“It matters to me.” Ferdinand said defiantly. “And I know it matters to Edelgard. So now I must ask, Hubert. What do you want?” 

“I want what is best for Her Majesty, for Fódlan, for the future she is working towards.” And that was the truth…just maybe not the whole truth. 

“Are you rejecting me out of a sense of duty? Or is it more than that?” Ferdinand seemed to ponder his own question.  They were both silent. But finally… 

“Do you love her?” Ferdinand asked quietly, almost a whisper.  Hubert looked at his shoes. And again silence fell over them. Finally he found his voice. 

“I do. I’m sorry Ferdinand. Please do not make me speak of this further.”  Ferdinand let out a deep breath before giving his reply. 

“Very well. Although you say that what you want does not matter, I intend to respect your wishes. So I will not mention this again.” 

That was the only Sunday they did not have tea together. And Ferdinand wouldn’t look Hubert in the eye for a few days afterwards. As much as this new behavior made Hubert uneasy, he knew it was only temporary. Ferdinand will forget about me soon enough. His feelings will fade. And then everything will go back to normal. And just as Hubert predicted he would, Ferdinand bounced back. 

“Would you like to have tea with me this Sunday?” Ferdinand asked in his usual boisterous tone. 

Hubert couldn’t help but let out a sigh of relief. So it only took a week for Ferdinand to stop being upset over his rejection. He didn’t like the idea of Ferdinand being upset. Especially if it was because of him. And he was also glad that their little tradition of having tea time on Sundays would not come to an end. Just because he turned Ferdinand down, didn’t mean he wished for their friendship to come to an end. 

Eventually he was drawn from his reverie when Edelgard addressed the room asking for any final thoughts. The moment the words “Then this meeting is adjourned” left Edelgard’s lips, Hubert noticed that Ferdinand was already out of his seat and had headed straight out the door. 

Chapter Text

1174

“Hmph. Then why won’t you ride the pegasus with me?” Ferdinand huffed.

“I don’t like pegasi.” Hubert lied, better to have Ferdinand think he didn’t like pegasi than know he had a fear an aversion of heights. Ferdinand gasped.

“But they are such magnificent creatures. Maybe you would appreciate them better after riding one. Who would not wish to fly on one?”

“Someone who has a stronger sense of self-preservation.”

“We are not charging into battle, it is just a little ride.” Ferdinand was starting to whine.

”Besides, only girls can ride pegasi.” Hubert argued.

“We are young enough for them to not be bothered.” Ferdinand countered.

“I’d prefer not to ride such a beast with a mind of its own. What if it doesn’t listen to me and decides to throw me off.”

“I’ve seen you riding Miss Horse. This is almost the same thing. If you are worried about losing control then we can ride the pegasus together. I am an excellent rider. You have seen me do it many times.”

“Weren't you the one telling me just last week that is is not good for a horse to carry two riders as the same time?”

“That was for my storybook and that was a different situation entirely.” Hubert remembered when he first read Ferdinand that particular book. Two knights were doing battle against a Giant Wolf, and the wolf managed to subdue one of the knights by killing their horse. Ferdinand cried during that scene.

“How?”

“First, in my storybook, the two riders were two grown adults both wearing full suits of armor. We are much smaller and not wearing armor.” Ferdinand started. “Second they were trying to outrun a Giant Wolf and so they were pushing that poor horse to the limit, whereas we will be going for a leisurely ride.” Ferdinand tried to give Hubert his best sad puppy face. “Please Hubert. There is no better feeling than flying on a pegasus.”

“What about the feeling of falling off and plummeting to your death?” Hubert sneered. Ferdinand took a moment to analyze Hubert’s question. Finally he spoke up.

“Hubert…are you afraid of heights?”

“No!” Hubert said much too quickly and too loudly.

“It is okay if you are—”

“I am not afraid of heights.” Hubert said, trying to make his voice sound as nonchalant as possible.

“Well if you really are not afraid of heights then you would have no problem riding the pegasus with me.” Ferdinand smiled but Hubert could see the mischievous glint in his eye. Brat. Hubert weighed his options: facing his fear or have someone find out about said fear. Not wanting to show weakness, he chose the former.

“Fine, but only because I know you won’t stop bothering me until I do. And if this pegasus bucks me off and I die, it’ll be your fault.” Ferdinand laughed before nimbly hopped into the saddle like he had been doing it for years. He patted the space behind him and smiled at Hubert.

“Your turn.” Hubert took a deep breath and clambered onto the saddle with the grace of a baby deer  learning to walk. When he finally got situated, he gingerly placed his hands around Ferdinand’s hips. “Ready?”

“As ready as I’ll ever be.” Hubert grumbled.

“Hold on.” Said Ferdinand. And then he snapped the reins, and the pegasus flapped its wings before taking to the skies. Hubert instantly wrapped his arms around Ferdinand’s waist in a vise-like grip and squeezed his eyes shut. He felt nauseous. All he could picture in his head were images of them flying higher and higher until all of Enbarr was nothing but a tiny speck. He tightened his grip around Ferdinand. All he could focus on was holding onto Ferdinand as tightly as he could as they climbed skywards. “See Hubert. I told you it would be fun—wait, why are your eyes closed?” Hubert didn’t respond. “Hubert, I swear everything will be alright. Just open your eyes.” And because somehow Ferdinand had a knack for getting Hubert to do things he didn’t normally do, he hesitantly opened his eyes.

Oh.

They had only risen a few inches in the air. They were so close to the ground the pegasus’ hooves brushed against the grass as it was gliding gracefully onward.

“See? Is this not a wonderful feeling?” Ferdinand called back to him. Hubert to this day is still unsure why his brain decided to mutiny in that moment but for whatever reason, it did. Maybe it just couldn’t pass on the opportunity to have the last word.

“What’s the point of riding a pegasus if you’re going to fly this low to the ground?”

“Oh, you wish to go higher? Let us away!” Ferdinand said in a much too cheerful tone, and pulled up on the reins. The pegasus instantly began to fly higher. Me and my big mouth. Was the last thought Hubert’s brain had before going haywire. All he could do now was tighten his hold and cling for dear life. If Ferdinand was bothered by Hubert trying to squeeze out his internal organs he didn’t mention it. Which was a good thing because there was no way he was loosening his grip. But as they rose higher and higher, Hubert couldn’t stop his fear from taking over.

“Hubert what is wrong?” Ferdinand called back behind his shoulder. “I can feel you shaking.”

“Nothing!”

“Well it is obviously something. Just tell me!”

“It’s…it’s…” Hubert shuddered.

“It is what?” Ferdinand sounded concerned.

“It’s… it’s…”

“What Hubert?! It is what?!”

“It’s…it’s too high!” Hubert practically screamed into his ear.

“But you said you did not fear heights.” Now Ferdinand just sounded confused.

“Yeah, well I lied okay?” Hubert snapped back. Ferdinand turned around to look at Hubert, his mouth open to scold him for lying. “Turn around! Watch where you’re going!” Hubert yelled.

“There is nothing up here for us to run into.” Ferdinand countered, but thankfully he turned back around. “Let us head back.” Hubert’s relief was short when Ferdinand sent the pegasus into a nosedive.

“Don’t just let us fall out of sky!” Hubert shrieked.

“I thought you wanted to get to the ground as fast as possible.”

“Not if it feels like we will plummet to our deaths!”

“Well I will go slower, but it might take a while. We are up pretty high.”

“Don’t remind me.” A few seconds passed before Ferdinand spoke up again.

“Hubert, instead of closing your eyes, it might help more if you look up.”

“Because you’re first suggestion to open my eyes went so well.” Hubert grumbled.

“It’s more fun.” Ferdinand chirped. I’ll focus on fun when I’m finished focusing on trying not to die. Hubert thought. But eventually Hubert looked up.

He had stared at the sky before. Usually to determine if there were any aerial threats. But somehow this was different. Suddenly the fear of falling to his death left the forefront of his mind. In fact all his thoughts seemed to vanish. The past and future fell away, the only thing that mattered was this moment in time. All he could do was feel. The wind in his hair. The warm sun shining down on him. The sky was so blue. If he wasn’t busy holding on for dear life, he could’ve reached out and touched it. This incredible feeling of weightlessness was something he had never experienced before. He couldn't explain it. It just felt right. He was flying!

And then it was over. Too slowly but somehow too quickly in Hubert’s opinion.

“Thank you for riding the pegasus with me.” Ferdinand said as they landed. Hubert uncoiled himself from the other boy and hoped he didn’t crack one of his friend’s ribs. “How do you feel? Did you like it?”

“It was…” Terrifying. Exhilarating. Alarming. Breathtaking. Freeing. “…fine.” Hubert mumbled.

“I am sorry I took you so high.” Ferdinand’s face of guilt turned into one of disapproval. “And that is why honesty is the best polic—”

“Spare me the lecture.” Hubert grumbled but Ferdinand just smiled; he was used to his friend’s prickly attitude.

“Well I think you are very brave to have ridden the pegasus.” Ferdinand was beaming at him. “I think with a bit more practice you would be a splendid Pegasus knight.” An image of himself flying through the air on the back of a pegasus filled his mind. And for once the idea of him being suspended hundreds of feet in the air didn’t send a shiver of fear through his body.

“Not very likely.” Hubert muttered. “But you could probably train to be a wyvern rider.” Ferdinand looked at the sky before answering.

“Maybe sometimes. I like being high up. It helps me clear my head, but...” He turned his gaze back to Hubert. “…I think I would rather stay on the ground…with you.” He smiled at Hubert.

“Then I guess you better stick to horses.” And Hubert couldn’t stop himself from smiling back.

1186

Hubert was not sulking. It was pure coincidence that Hubert found himself in a foul mood after Ferdinand canceled their Sunday tea time. And while that disappointed him far more than he cared to admit, he refused to sulk. Alright, maybe he was sulking just the tiniest bit, but it wasn’t because of Ferdinand. When something on his schedule was consistent, he found himself appreciating having some order amidst all the usual chaos he was surrounded by on a daily basis. (Who knew trying to unite the continent would be so complicated?) So really, the issue was that his routine was being disrupted and not because he hadn’t seen Ferdinand and his blinding smile. Of course, Ferdinand was still Prime Minister. Hubert was able to see him in a professional capacity. They attended the same meetings as usual, although Ferdinand was out the door the moment those meetings ended. Hubert was able to find him working in his office. But when Hubert approached him, Ferdinand only talked about work and he didn’t invite Hubert to stay longer like he usually did. And if Hubert lingered around the stables hoping to run into him, no one had to know. 

***

It was Edelgard who finally said something. 

“You’ve been gloomy.” Hubert raised an eyebrow at her. “Well, more gloomy than usual.” Edelgard corrected before she continued. “I’d even go as far to say that you’re moping. Is something bothering you?” 

“I assure you that there is nothing for you to worry about, Your Majesty.” Hubert replied, hoping he sounded indifferent. But the look Edelgard made, told him he didn’t. 

“So it is a personal matter then?” Why did she have to be so damn perceptive? After a minute, Edelgard finally broke the silence. “Is this about Ferdinand?” 

“No.” Hubert did not want to have this discussion. Unfortunately for him, Edelgard did. 

“When you said that there was nothing between you and—” 

“Lady Edelgard, please.” Hubert did his best to convey that he really did not want to have this conversation. Thankfully, Edelgard took the hint. 

“I won’t force you to speak of this further if you do not want to. I just wanted to let you know that it saddens me when you isolate yourself from others. Especially Ferdinand.” When he didn’t respond, she continued. “Hubert, you must know how important you are to me. I just want you to be happy.” 

“Are you happy…with Byleth?” Hubert asked, trying to steer the conversation topic away from himself. Edelgard looked uncomfortable for a moment, but it was gone as quickly as it came. She looked Hubert in the eye. One of the reasons why it was so easy for him to serve Edelgard was because she never lied to him. 

“I’ve never been happier.” She said with complete certainty. Hubert thought that hearing those words would hurt more than they did. But he found himself feeling only contentment. Even if it wasn’t with him, he was genuinely happy to hear that his liege was happy with Byleth. Byleth was able to provide the emotional support that Hubert never could. Edelgard deserved the best. And for her, that was Byleth. It was clear that the two of them shared a special bond.  

“Lady Edelgard, there is no need to worry. I am more than content with the way our relationship is now. You cannot upset me if you choose to follow your own happiness.” And he meant it. 

“I never thought I’d see the day when Hubert von Vestra would tell me to follow my heart.” Edelgard lightly teased. 

“Perhaps I’m growing soft in my old age.” Hubert said sarcastically. Falling back into their comfortable companionship where they don’t talk about their own emotions. 

“I think we both know that something or rather someone is making you softer, not your age.” 

***

Hubert was walking past the gardens, not looking for Ferdinand, when he heard voices. He poked his head out from behind a hedge and saw Petra and Byleth. Petra was in Fódlan on a diplomatic visit, to finalize Brigid’s independence. 

“Professor! I’m looking for Ferdinand. Do you know where I could be finding him?” 

“Hello, Petra. Ferdinand volunteered to help give the wyverns some exercise.” 

“Thank you Professor. I will be seeing if he—” 

“But I wouldn’t bother him at the moment.” Byleth interrupted. 

“Why are you saying that?” 

“He only volunteers with the wyverns when he wants to be left alone.” Petra gave them a questioning look. “Don’t get me wrong, Ferdinand is always volunteering to help with a lot of things. But he only offers to help fly the wyverns under four special circumstances.” 

“What are these four circumstances you are speaking of?” Byleth took a moment to think.

“The only times Ferdinand specifically requests to help out with exercising the wyverns are because…” Byleth held up a finger. “One. He has an important decision to make and is having a hard time making up his mind.” Byleth put up a second finger. “Two. He feels like he can’t talk to anyone about whatever is troubling him.” They put up a third finger. “Three. He’s upset with Hubert.” Hubert felt his stomach drop when he heard his name being spoken.  

“I am not understanding. Why is Ferdinand avoiding Hu—”

“Hey! Petra!” A loud voice interrupted. Then Leonie jogged up to them. Damnit Leonie, not now! “Oh hey, Professor.” Leonie said cheerily. “Sorry to interrupt, but I need to steal Petra for a minute. Dorothea is back from the opera house and is looking for her.” The two departed while Byleth continued their walkthrough the gardens. Hubert positioned himself so that he could surprise them when they turned the corner. When they did, Hubert pounced. 

“What’s the fourth circumstance?!” He growled, his face inches away from Byleth. 

“Hello, Hubert.” Byleth responded with zero surprise in their voice, much to Hubert’s disappointment. “The fourth what?” 

“Don’t play dumb. Why is Ferdinand helping out with the wyverns?” 

“Why don’t you ask him yourself?” Hubert just glowered and started to walk away. 

“All of the above.” It was only due to Hubert’s sharpened hearing, that he caught his professor’s quiet words. He turned around to face Byleth and their unsettling stare. 

“What?” 

“That’s the fourth circumstance.” Byleth replied. “All of the above.” 

Chapter Text

1175

“Hubert, why do you always wear gloves?” 

It was a simple question, but it did not come with a simple answer. So Hubert would always change the subject. But after Ferdinand asked for what felt like the millionth time, Hubert finally told him. He explained the regular usage of dark magic without a Crest had a cost. He hoped his explanation would be enough to satisfy his friend’s curiosity. It was not. He tried to hide his hands away from Ferdinand, but the younger boy would not be deterred. 

“Let me see! I want to see!” As much as Hubert told him that acting like a whiny child was not a noble quality, Ferdinand continued to beg. Finally, Hubert removed one of his gloves. When Hubert first began teaching himself dark magic, it had been easy to hide the toll it was slowly taking on his hands. Occasional feelings of numbness, aches, and uncomfortable prickling was a small price to pay. By the age of fifteen, his hands began to show superficial signs of the more sinister studies he had been learning. The blackness started at the tips of his fingers. As he continued practicing dark magic, the darkness had only spread. His long slender fingers were now almost completely black. Much to his surprise, Ferdinand didn’t recoil in disgust. In fact he actually seemed concerned. 

“Does it hurt?” 

“Not really. It’s about the same feeling you get after you’ve been writing for hours. Soreness, cramping…but nothing I can’t handle.” Hubert assured him. 

“But why hide them?” Hubert frowned. Didn’t his blackened extremities speak for themselves? 

“Isn’t it obvious? They aren’t pleasant to look at.” 

“But it just shows how hard you work. It is no different from the injuries I get from weapon training.” Ferdinand replied like it was the most obvious thing in the world. 

“But this…” Hubert wiggled his stained fingers “…will never heal.” 

“I am sure to have some injuries that will also leave permanent scars.” 

“It’s not the same!” Hubert snapped. “And I don’t want people asking questions. It’s easier just to hide them. My hands look dreadful and I don’t want people staring at them.” Ferdinand finally got the message to back off the topic of Hubert’s hands. 

***

“Hubert, look!” Ferdinand called excitedly. 

The next day when Hubert saw his friend, Ferdinand was smiling from ear to ear. Without prompting, He held his hands out for Hubert to see. Hubert’s stomach sank like a stone. 

Ferdinand’s fingers were as black as the night sky. 

“See, Hubert! Now you do not have to wear your gloves. People will be too busy looking at my hands that they will not even notice yours.” He said proudly. “Yes, yes. I know. It is a brilliant idea. Feel free to bask in my genius.” He stood in front of Hubert with his head held high, clearly waiting for praise. All Hubert could do was stare at Ferdinand’s hands and try not to have a panic attack. 

What had Ferdinand done?! How could this have happened?! What sort of dark magic did Ferdinand do to result in such a drastic change?! Once his initial shock ended, he grabbed Ferdinand by the elbow and half led, half dragged him towards the infirmary. Ferdinand protested the whole time, but Hubert wouldn’t release him from his death grip. 

“Hubert! Stop! Where are you taking me? Let go!” Finally Ferdinand wriggled himself free and backed away. Hubert didn’t have time to explain himself, he needed to get Ferdinand to a healer immediately. But when Ferdinand still refused to follow him, Hubert couldn’t help but lose his temper. 

“This isn’t a game, Ferdinand! I can’t believe that you would do something so foolish! You can’t just do something like this on a whim! What were you thinking?! Of all the reckless, irresponsible, stupid—“ Hubert wasn’t even sure what he was saying anymore. All that was running through his head was: This is my fault! Ferdinand is hurt, and it’s my fault! It’s my fault! My fault!  The only thing that stopped his tirade was when he noticed that Ferdinand now looked like he was on the verge of tears. 

“I…I’m sorry, Hubert. I…I didn’t know—did not know that you would get s-so mad at me. I…” Ferdinand’s voice cracked. “I just wanted you to feel like you did not need to w-wear gloves all the time…” He trailed off meekly. Hubert sighed. Ferdinand was just trying to help me. 

“I’m not mad at you, Ferdinand. Just…just come with me to the infirmary and the healers will—“ He gently tugged on Ferdinand’s sleeve to get him to move closer to the infirmary. 

”Why would I need a healer?“ Ferdinand interrupted in confusion. At least he started to walk with Hubert. 

”What do you mean, why do you need a healer?! Just look at the state of your hands! I don’t even know what kind of dark magic you used to—“

”But I did not use any magic.” Ferdinand said, causing Hubert to stop dead in his tracks. 

“What?” Hubert was stunned. “But…but then how—” It was at that moment that he realized he technically never asked Ferdinand how he blackened his fingers. ”Ferdinand…what exactly did you do to your fingers?” Ferdinand stared at the ground and shuffled his feet. 

“I…” He swallowed. “I…stuck my fingers into an inkwell.” He answered meekly. 

“It’s just…ink?” Hubert asked dumbly. When Ferdinand nodded, the amusement and relief that Hubert felt was immediate. It started as a chuckle, then grew until he was howling with laughter. He almost fell over into Ferdinand who had burst into peals of laughter. And for the first time in his life, Hubert laughed hard enough to bring tears to his eyes. 

1186

When Hubert received Ferdinand’s message asking if he was available for their usual Sunday tea time, he could have cried from sheer relief. Sunday couldn’t come sooner. Hubert felt like he had been counting the minutes. He even purchased some baked goods that he knew Ferdinand enjoyed with his tea. But instead of his usual cheerful mood, Ferdinand seemed almost melancholy. 

“Ferdinand?” Hubert prodded. 

“Hmm?” 

”You are being unusually quiet. Is something the matter?” 

“Nothing gets by you, Hubert.” Ferdinand sighed. “I just have some things on my mind.” 

“Tax reform?” Hubert guessed. 

“More personal things.” 

“Anything you wish to talk about?” Normally, Hubert wouldn’t offer to lend an ear. Mostly because he did not consider himself emotionally adept enough to make the person feel better. He usually just made them feel worse. Hubert possessed many skills but the ability to comfort people was not one of them. But this was Ferdinand, so he would give it his best shot. Hubert hoped it was something he could help Ferdinand with. Maybe he needs someone assassinated? I can do that. 

“I…” Ferdinand stopped and stared into his tea cup like it had all the answers in the world. 

“If you do not wish to speak abou—” Hubert started. He tried not to seem too eager to pry into Ferdinand’s personal business. 

“I was…thinking.” Ferdinand finally blurted out. 

“Thinking? I hope you didn’t exert yourself.” Hubert teased, but Ferdinand didn’t even acknowledge his jab with his usual playful grin. Feeling awkward, Hubert sipped his coffee. 

“I was thinking about what you said during our last tea time. About who should go to Fódlan’s Locket as an envoy for the Empire.” Ferdinand took a deep breath. “I am thinking of volunteering for the position. But I would like to hear your thoughts first.” 

To this day, Hubert still considers it a miracle that he did not spit out his coffee. Absolutely not! Was his first thought. When he didn’t answer, Ferdinand continued. 

“I know I said before that my place was in Enbarr. But what if Enbarr does not have a place for me?” Hubert had a feeling that Ferdinand wasn’t talking about Enbarr. Unsure how to respond, Hubert thought his safest option would be to ask another question. 

“What makes you think that?” 

“Something you said actually…” Ferdinand admitted. 

“Something I said?!” Hubert didn’t expect that. 

Ferdinand finally looked up directly into Hubert’s eyes. 

“Did you really mean it when you said, there is nothing between us and there never will be?” 

Fuck. 

Hubert von Vestra, Minister of the Imperial Household, Imperial Spymaster, and fully grown man with nerves of steel was the right hand of the Emperor. He worked to unite and run the entire continent of Fódlan. He was known for making the tough decisions that most people didn't have the stomach for. He had mastered the ability to stay calm in any situation. He never cracked under pressure. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He could do this. He opened his eyes and met Ferdinand’s amber gaze…

Before Hubert could fully process what was happening, he found himself sitting at his desk in his office. Alone. 

“Fuck!” He slammed his fists against his desk. Then he covered his face with his hands and groaned. What have I done?! Why did I warp?! Coward! Why couldn’t Ferdinand have just asked for something simple like carrying out an assasination instead? Utterly mortified with his actions, Hubert considered the repercussions of never leaving his office for the rest of his life. He just wanted to crawl into a hole and die. 

***

An hour had passed by the time Ferdinand knocked on Hubert’s office door. 

“Hubert. It’s me. Please open the door. I wish to speak with you.” His voice was quiet, almost pleading. Finally the door opened, revealing Hubert. Now Hubert was the one who couldn’t look the other in the eye. “May I please come in?” Ferdinand politely asked. Hubert stepped aside, gesturing for the cavalier to enter. The moment Hubert closed the door for privacy, Ferdinand began speaking. “First, allow me to apologize for putting you on the spot like I did. I do not want you to think that I find our friendship is insufficient in some way. Your friendship means more to me than I can say. But y-you asked me what was wrong, and I cannot lie to you. And I promise I was not eavesdropping, because that would be quite ignoble of me. I had just arrived early for that meeting. And then you just screamed that there was nothing between us so loudly, I heard you very clearly from the other side of the door. If you would prefer that we pretend that conversation never happened—” Ferdinand continued to ramble. 

But Hubert was barely listening. Right after he had warped, he took a few minutes to calm his heart from beating out of his chest. Then Hubert replayed their entire conversation over and over in his head. And Hubert realized there was one question he was burning to ask Ferdinand the moment he brought it up. So when Ferdinand knocked on his door, he had no choice but to let him in. He needed to know Ferdinand’s answer. 

“Is the reason you want to go to Fódlan’s Locket as Adrestia’s envoy because of what you overheard me say?” Ferdinand shook his head. 

“No, Hubert. It may surprise you that I am able to separate my professional life from my personal one. But I will say that hearing you shout those words was most likely the tipping point for me.” 

“Then why do you want to leave Enbarr?” Why do you want to leave me? Now it was Ferdinand’s turn to close his eyes and take a deep breath. 

“Because I am having a difficult time working under an Emperor and with a Minister of the Imperial Household, who are both keeping secrets from me. And it is because of such secrets that I find myself flailing about, going nowhere, contributing nothing…”

“What are you talking about?” Hubert asked, confused. 

“It is not about what I am talking about, it is about what you and Edelgard are talking about. I wish to know what you are saying behind my back.” 

“You think Lady Edelgard and I spend time gossiping about you behind your back? What in all of Fódlan gave you that idea?” He was genuinely bewildered. What could Ferdinand be talking about? His confused face just made Ferdinand angry.

“I am warning you, Hubert. Do not treat me like I am stupid.” Ferdinand warned. 

“This is ridiculous. You aren’t stupid and we’re not saying anything about you behind your back.” 

“I am not talking about myself.” Now Hubert was really lost. 

“Then what are you talking about?” 

“I do not know! That is why I am asking. What am I talking about, Hubert?” 

“Ferdinand, you’re not making any sense.”  Now Hubert was getting angry too. 

“I am not asking for every secret, every detail, but I think the Strike Force and I would like a general understanding.” 

“A general understanding of what?” 

“Of whatever you and Edelgard are keeping from all of us.” 

“You are delusional. You’re the Prime Minister. We’re not keeping anything from you.” Hubert asserted. Ferdinand's voice grew dangerously quiet. 

“Then tell me, Hubert…” Ferdinand’s eyes narrowed. “Who is slithering in the dark?” 

Hubert silently thanked the goddess that he didn’t believe in, that they were in his private office and not outside in the gardens. He was also thankful that he hadn’t eaten yet today because now he felt sick. He considered warping again. But he knew that Ferdinand would just corner him again somewhere else where they would have less privacy. In hindsight, he should’ve realized what Ferdinand was building up to. But he truly believed there was no way that Ferdinand could possibly know about those who slither in the dark. It was impossible. At least he thought it was. 

“I—I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Hubert said, unable to keep the nervous tone out of his voice. The look that Ferdinand gave him was filled with a multitude of emotions: anger, frustration, disappointment…hurt. When he spoke, Ferdinand no longer sounded angry, just concerned. 

“I know I am not privy to all your secrets, Hubert. But it feels like we are back at Garreg Mach; you and Edelgard were preparing to go to war under all of our noses. I could tell you were both up to something. I just did not realize how serious and volatile the situation was. Sometimes I think back to that time, and I wish that you confided in me sooner, because I would have helped you. Just like I am trying to help you now.  I understand that you did not tell me because you did not trust me back then. But I hope that you can trust me now.” 

“This isn’t a matter of trust, Ferdinand.” Hubert said through clenched teeth. “If you knew what I know you would stay as far away as possible.” But that was the problem, wasn’t it? If Ferdinand knew about those who slither in the dark he would go charging forward without hesitation, unconcerned with his own wellbeing. Hubert already had one loved one who suffered at the hands of those who slither in the dark, and he would do anything to stop it from happening again. Ferdinand raised his voice again. 

“I believe that is my decision to make. We are supposed to be a team. The Two Jewels!” 

“You’re the one who is thinking of running away to Leicester territory!” Hubert spat. 

“And you are the one who is letting me go!” Ferdinand threw back. Hubert was frustrated. He was running out of reasons why he shouldn’t tell Ferdinand about them. And he was frustrated that if he was in Ferdinand’s position, he’d probably do the exact same thing. 

“Have you ever considered that everything I have done is for your protection? Every secret I’ve kept, every lie I’ve told, every dark deed I’ve carried out, everything was to protect you?!…And the rest of the Strike Force?” Hubert quickly tacked on at the end. Ferdinand’s expression morphed from one of anger to one of sadness. 

“And who is protecting you?” Ferdinand asked softly. 

“I don’t need protection.” Hubert responded coldly. 

“Then I should go.” And they both knew Ferdinand was not just talking about leaving Hubert’s office. Without another word he left, leaving Hubert to stare at the closed door. 

***

“If that will be all, Your Majesty. Please excuse me.” Hubert stood up to leave her office. 

“Hubert, wait.” Edelgard ordered. “Before next week’s council meeting with the rest of the Strike Force, there is something I would like to discuss with you.” He sat back down in the chair facing her. “This is regarding who we will send to negotiate terms with Almyra. And I want your honest opinion.” Edelgard took a moment so Hubert could prepare himself for the bomb that was about to be dropped on him. “I believe that it would be best to send Ferdinand as Adrestia’s representative at the end of the month.” A few seconds passed. Then a few more. And then a few more.

“What about his duties as Prime Minister?” Was all Hubert could think of to say. 

“Ferdinand told me that he has spoken with Manuela who is willing to stand in for him while he is away.” 

“Then if you believe Ferdinand is our best option, I have no objections.” Hubert's words tasted sour.  

“Are you sure?” 

“Yes.” 

“Are you alright?” Edelgard asked, concern showing on her face. 

“I’m fine. Why do you ask?” 

“Because I never ordered you to assassinate your chair.” Hubert then realized he was gripping the arms of his chair so tightly his hands were practically vibrating. He instantly let go and folded his hands in his lap. “This is why I thought to tell you beforehand. I hadn’t considered sending Ferdinand until he met with me to volunteer for the job. When I asked why he suddenly changed his mind, he said something about wanting to go where he would be more useful. As if he is not doing an incredible job as Prime Minister. Do you know why he thinks he’s not needed here?” Hubert once again took a few moments to form a response. 

“He…he asked me about those who slither in the dark. He feels that we are keeping important secrets from him.”

“I see. Do you know how he caught word of them?” 

“I’m not sure.” Hubert said, which wasn’t completely true. He suspected Byleth may have dropped a hint or two, but had no solid evidence. 

”How much does he know?” 

“Next to nothing. All he asked me was ‘who is slithering in the dark?’ And I did not answer him.” 

“And knowing Ferdinand, I assume he did not take it very well.” Edelgard guessed. Hubert shook his head. “I can’t say I blame him, Hubert. I was irritated to no end when I knew you were keeping secrets from me too.” 

“Lady Edel—” Hubert started but Edelgard held up a hand. 

“Calm yourself, Hubert. I didn’t mean it like that. I only meant that I think I know how he feels.” They sat in silence for a little while. “As the Emperor, I will send who I believe to be the best candidate and that is Ferdinand. But as your friend…I think we should send someone else. What do you suggest?” She watched Hubert trying to gauge his reaction. 

“You should not base your decision on your emotions.” He said automatically. 

“Are you sure?” 

“Lady Edelgard, what are you really trying to ask me?” 

“You always did prefer a direct approach. Very well. I will not mince words.” She looked at him and he got the feeling she was looking straight through him. “Do you want Ferdinand to be sent to Fódlan’s Locket?” 

“Yes.” Hubert answered immediately, not meeting her gaze. 

“Why?” 

“Because he is the Empire’s best option to negotiate—” 

“Let me rephrase my question…And to be clear, I’m not asking the Minister of the Imperial Household about the Prime Minister.  I’m asking you, Hubert von Vestra, if you want Ferdinand von Aegir to be sent away from Enbarr. Forget why he would be sent away. Do you want him to leave?”

Of course not! Hubert thought, but the words stuck in his throat. It was selfish for him to wish that Ferdinand would stay in Enbarr. Sending Ferdinand to Almyra would only benefit the Empire. But the thought of Ferdinand leaving for who knows how long made him feel…sad? Frustrated? Lonely? When it became clear that he had no intention of voicing his answer, Edelgard was the one to break the silence. 

“Why did you turn down his offer of courtship?” Edelgard finally asked. 

“How did you—?!” Hubert felt like the rug was just pulled out from under him. He finally looked up at his emperor only to be met with sad eyes. 

“I’ve known for a while now.” She admitted. 

“You knew? For how long?” Hubert’s mind was reeling. 

“He asked for my permission to court you before he even asked you. He understands how important my approval is to you.” When Hubert didn’t respond, Edelgard continued. “I had hoped that you would’ve accepted his offer.” 

“I…I would never be able to.” 

“And why do you say that?” 

“I already told you. You are the one I love.” Hubert said flatly. 

“Yes, I remember when you first told me. We never really spoke about it further. That is probably my fault. I was just…surprised. I honestly thought you were going to say Ferdinand was the one you love.” Hubert gave her an incredulous look. “Before we took Fhirdiad, Byleth told me that they saw you two exchanging gifts. And then they heard you say that you would prepare Ferdinand his tea. Aside from myself, I have never seen you make tea for someone without the intention of poisoning them…so when Ferdinand didn’t die, it became rather obvious to me that you had a soft spot for him.” Edelgard explained. 

“Byleth really needs to learn some boundaries.” Hubert grumbled. 

“Well the gift exchange was what tipped me off in the beginning. That’s when I started to pay attention. And I noticed that when you’re around Ferdinand, you seem…lighter somehow. More at ease. Then it became rather obvious you hold affection for him.” 

“Being able to serve you, my lady, is all I’ve ever wanted.” 

“But you’ve never allowed yourself to want anything else.” 

“Still I could never accept his offer.” Hubert said firmly. 

”I don’t see why not.” She sounded frustrated. 

“Because you’re the one I love.” Hubert was tired of having to repeat himself. But Edelgard was not having it. She stood up from her chair. Despite being about the same height as Hubert sitting down, he felt like she towered over him. Her words were severe. 

“And just who are you trying to convince, Hubert?! Me or yourself?! Are you sure you’re not just saying that you love me as an excuse to avoid an actual relationship with Ferdinand…someone who might love you back?! Be honest with yourself!” They stared at each other, both frozen at her words. Finally, Edelgard spoke softly. 

“I’m sorry, Hubert. That…that was cruel of me to say.” She sat back down and reached for his hands over her desk. “I don’t doubt your devotion. Your loyalty to me has been one of the few constants in my life. I’m sorry it has taken me so long to say this.” She took his hand in hers. “Hubert von Vestra, I love you too. I love you like family. I love you as my comrade in arms. And most of all, I love you as my dearest friend. I just want you to be happy.” They both sat together in silence for a while, just finding comfort in each other's presence. 

“Lady Edelgard. Your friendship means more to me than I can ever express in words. And seeing you with Byleth only brings me happiness, because you are happy. I mean that from the bottom of my heart.” He gave her a rare smile and she smiled back. 

“And the happiest I’ve ever seen you, Hubert, is when you’re with Ferdinand.” Hubert stopped smiling. 

“It’s not that simple.” He said as he let her hands go. 

“Yes it is. He likes you and you like him.” Edelgard said matter of factly. 

“I cannot fulfill my duties to you and court Ferdinand.” Hubert said solemnly. 

“Why not? You’re great at multitasking.” Edelgard insisted. 

“I would never be able to put him first…” Hubert spoke firmly but then his voice dropped to a whisper. “And he deserves better.” Edelgard opened her mouth to respond, but then closed it. She understood putting duty before love. “Perhaps it is that simple.” Hubert continued. 

“What do you mean?” 

“We need someone to make the journey to Fódlan’s Locket. Ferdinand is our best option. And he has volunteered to leave Enbarr.” To leave me. 

“If you are sure.” Edelgard’s tone was steady, but her eyes were sad. 

“I’m sure. Now, if that is all, I must take my leave.” Hubert stood up, bowed, and moved towards the door. As he reached for the door, Edelgard spoke. 

“I’m going to miss him too.”

Hubert paused, his hand on the doorknob. Then he let himself out, closing the door behind him, refusing to look back. 

***

The end of the month arrived faster than Hubert would have liked. Now he found himself standing at the palace gates, watching the Prime Minister’s departure from afar. Hubert hoped to catch a final glimpse of Ferdinand before he left. And if he was lucky he would see his smile one more time. Ferdinand was already on his horse when he noticed Hubert, just as he planned. Already settled, Ferdinand would just give him a quick wave and smile and that would be tha—

Hubert felt his heart pick up speed as he watched Ferdinand notice him, immediately dismount, and walk towards him. 

“Hubert! I am relieved that you came to bid me farewell. I almost thought I would not see you before I left.” Hubert just stared at Ferdinand’s nose so he wouldn’t have to look directly into his eyes. 

“I don’t like goodbyes.” He finally said. 

“Then I shall be brief.” Ferdinand then pulled him into a quick but rather tight hug. “I am going to miss you, Hubert.”

Then don’t go! Stay here with me! But Hubert couldn’t voice his real thoughts as his goodbye. His mind whirled as he desperately tried to think of how to respond. What should I say? This alliance is very important to Her Majesty and for all of Fódlan? But we trust you to do a fine job. I wish you the best of luck? Yes, that sounds right. Now just don’t do anything stupid, Hubert. Do not screw this up! Unfortunately what came out was: 

“This alliance is very important to Her Majesty and for all of Fódlan. Do not screw this up.” Hubert almost slapped his hand over his mouth. He thought about repeatedly hitting his head against the iron gates. He expected Ferdinand to bristle and turn his back on Hubert. Maybe he would strike him. But Ferdinand had a bad habit of always surprising him. Ferdinand lifted his hand and gently cradled Hubert’s cheek and smiled. His smile was affectionate, yet wistful. It took all of Hubert’s self control not to lean into his hand. 

“Goodbye, Hubert. Until we meet again.” Then he finally turned around, lifted himself on his horse and began to ride away. Hubert wished Ferdinand had punched him instead. 

Once Ferdinand was finally out of sight, a familiar feeling of uneasiness lingered as once again Hubert found himself regretting his parting words to Ferdinand. He wished he said something else, but it was pointless to expend energy feeling guilty over something he could not change. So he threw himself into his work. Over the next few weeks he had run himself so ragged that even Bernadetta plucked up the courage to tell him he needed to take better care of himself. Even Annette, a fellow self proclaimed workaholic who didn't understand the concept of slowing down, told him he was working himself too hard.  

Eventually Edelgard kicked him out of his own office and ordered him to get some fresh air. Not sure what to do with himself, he found himself outside wandering around the palace gardens with no destination in mind. He wandered around for what felt like at least an hour. It wasn’t until he came to a full stop when he realized where his feet had taken him. The table where he and Ferdinand used to take their Sunday teatime lay before him. Too tired to be annoyed with his own subconscious for being nostalgic, he sat down in his usual chair. It didn’t feel right to be sitting there, while Ferdinand’s chair remained empty. But it was nothing compared to the emptiness that Hubert felt inside his heart.

Chapter Text

1172

“I found you.” 

Ferdinand looked up from the bush he had been hiding in, and saw Hubert staring down at him. Ferdinand groaned and began to climb out. 

“I was so sure that you would not find me this time.” Ferdinand pouted. Hubert gave him a smug smile in return. 

“It was a valiant effort.” Hubert said as he pulled out a leaf that was stuck in Ferdinand’s hair. 

“It is not fair. I stick out more than you. Sometimes I am too dazzling to behold!” Ferdinand declared. “Can we do something else? I do not want to play Hide and Seek anymore. It is not fun when it is your turn to seek, you always find me so quickly.” It was obvious that Ferdinand regretted asking what Hubert’s favorite game was. 

“Well at least you’re improving. Before, your hiding spots were so bad that Miss Horse could’ve found you.” 

“That is because Miss Horse is much smarter than you give her credit for.” Ferdinand insisted. 

“C’mon, let’s go back, it’s getting late.” Hubert said, knowing he would only upset Ferdinand if he tried to argue that Miss Horse was anything less than a genius. They began to head back to the palace. 

“And it is not fun when it is your turn to hide either because I never find you.” Ferdinand grumbled. 

“You’re always saying that if you want to improve, the best way is to continue practicing.” Hubert pointed out. 

“I was talking about fighting with different types of weapons.” 

“You can approach anything you aren’t very good at with the same attitude. Do you wish to improve at Hide and Seek?” 

“Yes.” 

“Then you should keep practicing.” Hubert said, hoping he didn’t sound too eager. He was just pleased to have found someone he could play his favorite game with. “I thought the noble Ferdinand von Aegir never gave up.” Ferdinand stopped walking, turning Hubert’s words over in his head. A few seconds passed before Ferdinand walked towards Hubert who had also stopped to wait for his friend. 

“You are correct. I am Ferdinand von Aegir, and I will try again tomorrow!” He announced, full of new resolve. They were almost back when Ferdinand spoke. 

“Can you at least play easy on me next time? And as I improve, you can then go back to playing normally.” Ferdinand asked. 

“What would be the point of that?” Asked Hubert. Ferdinand just shrugged. “The best way to improve at something is to practice against someone who is better than you and is not holding back, because they will push you harder to be better faster.” Hubert stated, unaware how seriously Ferdinand would take his words later in life. “If you want to be the best, you have to beat the best. Make sense? So I’m actually helping you.”

“I guess.” Ferdinand looked a little discouraged.

Hubert didn’t like it when Ferdinand made that face. But he knew it wouldn’t last for long. Ferdinand could always find the good in anything. A few minutes later, as Hubert predicted, Ferdinand smiled.  

“Why are you smiling?” Hubert asked, wondering how Ferdinand was able to find a silver lining this time. Ferdinand looked at his friend, and his smile grew. 

“Well…I realized that if I ever get lost for real, at least I know you can always find me.”

1187

When Hubert heard the news that Ferdinand would be coming to visit Enbarr, his heart soared. It was only for a few days, but Hubert didn’t care. Ferdinand was coming home! It had been ten moons since Ferdinand first left for Fódlan’s Locket. Ten painfully dull, tedious, uneventful moons that dragged on slower than Linhardt in fortress knight armor. By the end of the fifth moon, Hubert tried to convince Edelgard that is was in the Empire’s best interest to send him to Fódlan’s Locket so he could gently persuade the King of Almyra at knifepoint to sign the necessary documents, so Ferdinand could return to Enbarr sooner. Edelgard rejected his suggestion, much to Hubert’s disappointment. But it didn't matter anymore, because Ferdinand was on his way back! Because nothing in the world was going to stop Ferdinand from attending Dorothea and Petra’s wedding. 

It was to be a small intimate ceremony. Only members of the Black Eagles Strike Force were invited. The two women had already been wed in the traditional way in Brigid. But Dorothea had been disappointed that they had not been able to celebrate their union with their close friends in Fódlan. It took almost no convincing to get Petra onboard with having another wedding. And no one could begrudge the Queen of Brigid for taking some time to marry the woman she loved most, again in her wife’s homeland. 

Almost every member of the Strike Force had arrived within the last couple of days. As Minister of the Imperial Household, Hubert was in charge of ensuring their guests had a pleasant stay. They helped keep the environment livelier and occupied a good amount of Hubert’s attention. Even Hubert had to admit it was nice to see everyone altogether. Only Ferdinand and two other guests remained unaccounted for. 

***

“Hilda. Marianne. Welcome to Enbarr.” Hubert stood at the front steps of the Imperial Palace with Caspar as they greeted their guests. 

“Nice place ya got here, Hubert.” Hilda said in her usual peppy tone as she gave Caspar a friendly slap on the back. “Hey Caspar.” 

“Minister Vestra. General Bergliez.” Marianne, always polite, said as she made a small curtsy and nodded at both of them. 

“You can just call me Caspar. I’m still part of the Strike Force, but I’m not really a general anymore. Especially now that Lin and I abandoned our noble houses.” 

“And you may call me Hubert. Caspar will show you to our guest quarters.” Hubert said as he gestured for them to go inside. 

“Awesome. Thanks Caspar. Let me just grab our stuff.” Hilda went back to the carriage and grabbed a very large trunk. “That should be everything.” 

“Here, let me take it.” Caspar reached out to take the trunk Hilda held out to him. The moment Hilda let go, the trunk and Caspar crashed to the floor. 

“Ow.” Caspar said in more surprise than pain. 

“Caspar, are you okay?! What happened?” Hilda exclaimed. 

“I’m fine. I’m fine.” Caspar stood up, trying to laugh it off, but didn’t try to lift the trunk again. “It was just a little heavier than I expected. That’s all, heh. I’m fine.” His voice grew quieter. “ I guess this is a sign I need to be training harder.” Marianne leaned over and quietly whispered something into Hilda’s ear so quietly Hubert didn’t hear what she said. 

“Oh right! Sorry, I completely forgot.” Hilda said sheepishly and bent over to open the trunk and pulled out her Hero’s Relic: Freikugel. Both Caspar and Hubert’s eyes widened. “Sorry. I forgot I packed it. My brother wanted an entire battalion to travel with us for our protection. Finally he let us go alone as long as I brought this old thing.” She casually slung Freikugel over her shoulder like it was just an ordinary wooden training axe and closed the trunk again. “That should help.” She smiled at Caspar who looked at the trunk and then looked at Hubert. 

“Hubert, why don’t you take the other side?” He suggested. (The trunk was still pretty heavy.) When they finally arrived at the guest quarters, Hubert and Caspar exchanged a look and silently agreed to leave the trunk on the floor. They both tried not to feel insecure when they watched Hilda pick up the trunk, like it weighed nothing, to the bed to begin unpacking. 

“Please take your time to get settled.” Hubert said to excuse himself. “Her Majesty invites you to have tea with her whenever you can spare the time.” Reassured that Caspar would be able to play host for a little longer, he left to report to Edelgard their guests had arrived. 

***

“Miss Goneril and Miss Edmund. Always a pleasure.” Edelgard said as the two women entered the tea parlor. Both women curtsied. Edelgard nodded respectfully, and gestured for them to join her at her table. Once they were all settled, Hubert began to serve the tea. 

”Oh, don’t call me Miss Goneril. It makes me sound so old. Hilda is just fine. Can I call you Edelgard?” 

“Yes.” Said Edelgard. 

“No.” Said Hubert at the same time. 

“Wow. I guess some things never change.” Hilda remarked playfully. 

“And please, y-you may call me Marianne.” Marianne said softly. Hubert poured their tea while three other women chatted for a while. Hilda and Marianne had just returned from a trip to Fódlan’s Locket. Hubert tried not to think too hard about Ferdinand. He failed. 

“So tell me, Hilda.” Edelgard inquired. “How is Duke Goneril doing?” Ask about Ferdinand. Ask about Ferdinand! 

“My brother? He’s fine. When we saw him—” But Hubert wasn’t listening. It wasn’t until a particular name was mentioned when he zeroed in on the conversation. 

“You say you were visiting Fódlan’s Locket?” Edelgard inquired. “Does that mean you saw Ferdinand? How is he?” Hubert couldn’t help but lean in closer. Hilda gave Edelgard a funny look. 

“Yeah, we saw him. But we didn’t really talk much. The guy is always on the move. My brother told me since the day he arrived the only time Ferdinand took for himself were his early morning rides and Sunday afternoons.” Hilda said. Hubert could feel Edelgard giving him the side eye; he did his best to ignore her. So she continued on. 

“But surely you spoke while you were both at Fódlan’s Locket…I’m quite surprised to hear that Ferdinand barely engaged with you.” Edelgard was perplexed. So was Hubert. Back at the Academy, Ferdinand had been good friends with Hilda and Marianne, especially with the latter because of their mutual love of all things horse. 

“He left the day we arrived.” Marianne said. 

“I thought you said you were at Fódlan’s Locket for a week before traveling to Enbarr.” Hubert interjected. Something wasn’t right. 

“We were!” Hilda said with certainty, then frowned. “Wait, I’m confused. When did Ferdinand arrive in Enbarr?” 

“…Ferdinand hasn’t arrived yet.” Edelgard said pointedly. Hilda exchanged looks with Marianne, while Edelgard exchanged looks with Hubert. Hubert’s heart was no longer soaring. Then Hilda turned to Marianne. “Did Ferdinand say he was going to make another stop on his way to Enbarr?” She asked quietly. 

“No. He said he was leaving so early because he wanted to get to Enbarr as soon as possible for the wedding.” Marianne whispered back. 

“So, let me get this straight…” Edelgard said sternly as she pinched the bridge of her nose. “Ferdinand left for Enbarr three weeks before you…but still hasn’t arrived?” No one spoke. Hubert felt his heart begin to sink. Eventually Hilda spoke up. 

“I’m sure there’s a perfectly reasonable explanation for all of this.” But she didn’t sound like she even believed herself. 

“A-At least he wasn’t traveling alone.” Marianne said meekly. That had to be a good thing, right?

“Who was he traveling with?” Edelgard questioned. When Hilda and Marianne responded, Hubert’s heart sank. 

“Lord Arundel.” 

***

Once Edelgard confirmed that Hilda and Marianne had indeed been referring to her uncle, Volkhard von Arundel, she and Hubert sprang into action. No one knew what Lord Arundel had been doing in Fódlan’s Locket, but since he was Regent of the Empire, no one questioned it. And he just happened to be planning to return to Enbarr at the same time as Ferdinand, who graciously offered to be his traveling companion. 

“I’m going to tell the Strike Force everything. It’s time they knew about those who slither in the dark.” Edelgard said in a voice that Hubert knew meant there was nothing that could change her mind. He wasn’t planning to anyway. Byleth had been right. Maybe if they had acted earlier, they wouldn’t be in this situation. Edelgard ordered several messengers to be sent to Fódlan’s Locket, just in case. But Hubert knew the truth: the Prime Minister was missing. Ferdinand was missing. 

“Have everyone meet us in the war room after dinner. I don’t want to delay any longer. But I need some time to talk to Lysithea and Hapi privately beforehand. I don’t know how open they are to discussing their own personal situations.” 

“Consider it done, Your Majesty.” Hubert said calmly. He didn’t have time to address the emotions that were close to overflowing inside of himself. He had a job to do. An hour later, the Black Eagle Strike Force had been assembled. Edelgard sat at the head of the table. Hubert on her right, Byleth on her left. 

“Please everyone, make yourselves comfortable. There is much I need to tell you. Please leave any questions until the end. But before I begin, as Emperor I am ordering all of you to keep this information confidential. If it becomes too much and you do not wish to hear what I have to say, you may walk out at any time. But nothing of what I share with you leaves this room. This is a matter of life and death.” Edelgard’s authoritative voice left no room for argument. 

***

After Edelgard explained the situation, the room was so quiet you could hear an owl feather drop. But when Edelgard asked… “Does anyone have any questions?” the room erupted into shouts of anger. (Even Ashe raised his voice.)

“Why didn’t you tell us about them sooner?!”

”Do you not trust us?!”

“You’ve known about these people for how long?!” 

“Why did you ally with them?!”

“What else are you hiding from us?!” 

“It wasn’t the Church who obliterated Arianrhod?!” 

“How can we believe you after everything you’ve kept from us?!” 

“Why the fuck did you give them such a long name?!” 

“That is enough!” Dorothea’s shout rose above the chaos and the entire room fell silent. She had been uncharacteristically quiet while the others shouted. Hubert noticed that when Edelgard told them about Ferdinand’s abduction, a few tears fell down her cheeks. But she had wiped her eyes before drawing everyone’s attention to her. “Everyone needs to get a grip! It doesn’t matter why Edie, Hubie, and the Professor withheld this information. They had their reasons. We’ve all kept secrets from certain people for their own good. What matters is that they are choosing to tell us now. This is not the time to be fighting amongst ourselves.” She turned to Edelgard. “With Edie’s permission, I believe we should all have a twenty minute break before continuing. I think we all need some time to clear our heads.” When Edelgard nodded in agreement, Dorothea stomped out of the room. The rest of the Strike Force followed her example. Only Edelgard, Byleth, and Hubert remained. When Hubert looked at Edelgard he was unsettled by the sight of her eyes filling with tears. 

“Lady Edelgard…” He began, unsure of what he could even say. She covered her eyes with one hand and raised the other to quiet Hubert. 

“Can you please leave until everyone comes back? I need a minute.” Then she clamped her hand on Byleth’s wrist, indicating that she wanted them to stay with her. Hubert was relieved to have been excused. At the moment, he wasn’t sure if he could face Edelgard either without losing his composure. But he did linger near the door, listening to Edelgard and Byleth’s conversation. He had to wait a minute until either of them spoke. 

“What can I do to help?” Byleth asked. 

“Just…keep holding me…” His lady sounded so small. Another minute passed until Byleth spoke. 

“How do you feel?” He heard Edelgard take a deep breath. 

“Relieved.” She whispered. “These secrets—my secrets are out. It’s like a great weight has been lifted from my shoulders.” She sighed. “I’m only sorry that that weight is now resting on everyone else’s shoulders.” 

“You’re not alone, El. We’ll get through this. Together.” Satisfied that Edelgard was in good hands, and not wanting to intrude any further, Hubert finally walked away. 

As he was deciding whether to get his next cup of coffee from his room, his office, or the kitchens, Hubert stumbled across Dorothea. She was sitting in a small alcove, looking out the window, He walked up behind her. 

“Dorothea.” He said, making his presence known. 

“Mmm.” Dorothea just hummed in acknowledgement. She didn’t turn to face him. 

“I just wanted to thank you for getting everyone to calm—”

“Don’t thank me!” She snapped. “I’m just as angry as everyone else. I didn’t even want to say it.” 

“Then why did you…say anything at all?” Hubert asked hesitantly. She sighed before turning to face him. Her eyes were full of tears again. 

“Because it’s what he would’ve said.” 

Chapter Text

1174

They bickered a lot. That was normal for them. But what wasn’t normal was Ferdinand not coming to find Hubert the next day as if their squabbling had never happened. Hubert couldn’t even remember what they had been arguing about. All he knew was that it had been two whole days since he saw Ferdinand. So Hubert decided to swallow his pride and go look for his friend. He found Ferdinand at the stables talking to Miss Horse. Suddenly Hubert remembered what had started their fight. He had been taunting Ferdinand, after he found him talking to Miss Horse as if she was a person. Ferdinand had gotten very defensive.

“There is nothing shameful about talking your feelings out with a horse, Hubert! You said it yourself that animals provide emotional support.” Ferdinand argued.

“Yes, they provide emotional support with their presence. Not with their intellectual conversation, or lack thereof. Miss Horse is an animal, not a counselor with an advice box.” Hubert exasperatedly replied.

“How dare you! I will have you know that Miss Horse is an excellent conversationalist!” But what pushed Ferdinand over the edge was when Hubert began hurling his insults at Miss Horse, instead of Ferdinand himself. Hubert thought it was silly to get so offended on an animal’s behalf, but that is exactly what happened. Eventually, Hubert stormed off in frustration. But now, as Hubert approached him, Ferdinand was the one to stand up to leave.

“Spare me your mockery Hubert, I am not in the mood.” He said irritatedly as he brushed past Hubert.

“Ferdinand, wait!” Ferdinand stopped walking and turned to face Hubert, his arms crossed. He was frowning and Hubert hated that he was the reason for it. He took a deep breath. “I’m sorry.”

“For what?”

“I’m sorry I made fun of you for talking to Miss Horse.” Said Hubert, trying hard not to sound sarcastic. Ferdinand stared deep into Hubert’s eye for a while until his frown slowly turned into an almost smile.

“I accept your apology.” Hubert breathed a sigh of relief. ”But you must also apologize to Miss Horse.” Ferdinand added.

“Excuse me?”

“You heard me.”

“I’m not apologizing to Miss Horse.” Hubert said pointedly. Ferdinand crossed his arms and frowned again.

“Then I do not accept your apology.”

“You can’t reject an apology after you already accepted it.” Hubert argued.

“Sure I can. I just did.” Ferdinand said stubbornly. Now Hubert huffed a breath of annoyance. Both boys glared at each other, neither of them wanting to be the one who admitted defeat first. But finally, Hubert broke.

“Uhhh, fine!” Hubert whined said like a mature adult. He walked up to Miss Horse’s stall. “I’m sorry.” Hubert said solemnly. Now please accept my apology so Ferdinand will be my friend again. He silently prayed. Miss Horse snorted and shook her large head. Hubert looked at Ferdinand who gestured for him to continue.

“Keep going.” His amber eyes showed that he was not satisfied. Hubert turned back to Miss Horse and tried to recall his past words.

“Miss Horse, I’m truly sorry. You are not a mindless animal. I was wrong when I said that you were not an intelligent animal. Again, I’m sorry.” Hubert said in earnest. Miss Horse flicked her tail a few times before she finally bucked her head upward and then lightly bumped Hubert’s face with her nose.

“Splendid! She forgives you!” Ferdinand cheered. Thank the goddess. Hubert thought as he gently patted Miss Horse’s muzzle.

***

“You should try it sometime.” Ferdinand said without any prompting as they walked back towards the palace later that day. 

”Try what?”

”Talking to Miss Horse. You know…if something is bothering you. She is very easy to talk to.”

“I’ll pass.”

“I am just saying… She is a great listener and she gives very good advice.”

“If you say so.”

“Promise you will try?” Hubert opened his mouth to tell Ferdinand that he would make no promise, but as he looked into Ferdinand’s hopeful amber eyes, he softened.

“Maybe.”

“Good enough!” Ferdinand whooped.

1187

When Edelgard finally dismissed the Strike Force for the rest of the night, Hubert went straight to his office. There was work to be done. But the moment he closed the door, reality seemed to crash over him. He felt the world tilt. Dorothea’s words rang in his ears. 

“Because it’s what he would’ve said.” 

If he was here. But Ferdinand wasn’t here. And Hubert…Hubert couldn’t breathe. He sank to the floor, his entire body was trembling like a leaf. How could this have happened? How could he have let this happen? This was his fault. If he had just confided in Ferdinand that day when he asked about those who slither in the dark, maybe Ferdinand would have never left. Would have never gone to the other side of the continent. Would have never agreed to travel with Arundel. I served him to them on a silver platter. Ferdinand must be furious with him. Assuming he’s still aliv— No. He would not follow that train of thought. He could not. An unpleasant stinging threatened his eyes. In the privacy of his own room, he let himself release a silent sob. 

When he was nine years old and Edelgard had been abducted, he thought his life was over. He was born to serve Edelgard. A role he was assigned, accepted, and embraced. At first he served her because he had to. Now he served her because he wanted to. She had showed him the way forward. She had pointed in the direction she planned to go, and he followed behind her gladly. But with her gone, he didn’t know which direction was the right one. Without her, he was lost, forced to wander blindly. And then a young amber eyed boy reached out his hand and offered to wander with him. And when Hubert rejected his offer, the boy took Hubert’s hand anyway and held on until he had no choice but to bring him along. During their aimless wandering together, the boy had shown Hubert that there was a whole world out there; outside himself and his duty. 

Edelgard had given him purpose. They decided they would both protect this world together. But Ferdinand…

Ferdinand had shown Hubert that this world was worth protecting. 

Images of Ferdinand flashed through his mind. Ferdinand arguing with him at another meeting. Ferdinand drinking tea. Ferdinand charging into battle. Ferdinand eating sautéed pheasant and eggs in the dining hall. Ferdinand polishing his armor. Even Ferdinand’s voice echoed through his head. 

“A true noble never fails!” 

“And I would miss you.” 

“The splendor of nobility.” 

“A gift, yes. For you.” 

“I am Ferdinand von Aegir!” 

He tried to muffle his cries behind his hands, but it was no use. Tears fell uncontrollably, wracking his body with broken sobs. The all-consuming emptiness he felt threatened to drown him. All he could think about was Ferdinand.

Ferdinand…

Ferdinand…

The man that Hubert…loved. 

Loves. 

These feelings were completely unfamiliar. Hubert thought his chest would burst from the feelings of warm joy and icy terror that consumed his heart. He was in love with Ferdinand. And Ferdinand…was gone. 

If Ferdinand was taken hostage by those who slither in the dark then at least Hubert knew that he was alive. There would have been no point to abducting the Prime Minister if murder was their objective. They wouldn’t have gone through the trouble of deception if all they wanted was a corpse. No, Ferdinand was alive. And Hubert would do everything in his power to find him. 

***

Two moons later…

Where could he be? Hubert asked himself for the millionth time. Although he knew there was no way that Ferdinand would be imprisoned underneath the palace, where Edelgard and her siblings were kept, he still triple checked. Nothing. He even traveled to Fódlan’s Locket himself to see if he could find any traces of Ferdinand. Nothing. He compiled all the information he had gathered about those who slither in the dark throughout the years and combed through it over and over for clues. Still nothing. 

He leaned back in his office chair and groaned. He rubbed his exhausted eyes. He grabbed fistfuls of his hair. The pounding in his head wouldn’t go away. Suddenly his office door was forcibly swung open. Hubert immediately began to cast Miasma ∆ until he saw who stood in his doorway. Byleth. 

“I tried knocking.” They said nonchalantly, like they didn’t just kick Hubert’s door in. 

“What do you want?” He rasped, his voice harsh with disuse. Byleth walked to the front of his desk and leaned in so close that their face was only inches away. They studied Hubert’s face, and Hubert felt like he was a bug being observed under a magnifying glass. 

“You look terrible.” They concluded. Hubert scowled. 

“Thank you, Professor. I will be sure to take that under advisement.” But Byleth wasn’t finished. 

“When was the last time you ate? When was the last time you slept? When was the last time you left this room?” Hubert just glared in a response but Byleth continued undeterred. “When was the last time you bathed?” Hubert rolled his eyes and continued to study his maps. “Come with me.” They gestured towards the door. “You need nourishment and rest.” When Hubert didn’t move a muscle, Byleth pulled something white out of their pocket and held it right in front of Hubert’s nose. 

***

When Hubert opened his eyes, he was staring at his bedroom ceiling. He let out a small groan as he rubbed the tiredness from his eyes. 

“Welcome back.” 

Hubert turned his head towards Byleth’s voice. They were sitting on a chair nearby, reading one of Hubert’s tomes. A hundred questions flooded Hubert’s mind at once. 

“Why are you— Why am I— How did you— What did you—” He spluttered. Byleth held up a piece of white cloth. It looked familiar. 

“I think this is yours.” They said and then it came to Hubert. It was a handkerchief. His handkerchief. His noxious handkerchief! 

“Where…Where did you even get that?” And how did it end up in Byleth’s possession? 

“I had a feeling it belonged to you. I found it at the training grounds at Garreg Mach. Now seemed like the right time to return it.” 

“Garreg Mach?!” Hubert was stunned. He had lost that handkerchief years ago back when he was still a student at the Officers Academy. “And you decided to incapacitate me with it, because…” He growled. 

“Simple. You needed to sleep. And you weren’t sleeping.” It was at that moment that Hubert remembered why he hadn’t been sleeping. Ferdinand! He immediately jumped out of bed. Or at least he tried to. The moment he sat up the room began to spin. He swung his legs off the bed but when he tried to stand, they buckled beneath him and he fell to his knees. Byleth had stood from their chair and walked over to Hubert. They helped him sit back down on his bed. “Don’t make me knock you out again. You need to rest.” They warned. 

“I can’t rest!” Hubert said angrily. “Every minute we spend not finding Ferdinand is another minute that he is at the mercy of those who slither—” 

“I know. But at this rate you are going to work yourself into an early grave. Your mind may be willing to forgo all your basic needs, but unfortunately, your body is not. You can’t help Ferdinand if you die first.” Byleth’s no nonsense tone softened. “I know you’re worried about h—“ 

“I’m not worried!” Hubert snapped, inwardly cringing at how petulant he sounded. Byleth tried again with more patience than he probably deserved. 

“Worrying about the person you love is nothing to be ashamed of, Hubert. It just shows how much you love and care for him.” Hubert still didn’t respond. But he didn’t deny their claims either. “Tell me something, Hubert. Did Edelgard worry about me when I went missing?” 

“Yes.” Hubert grumbled. He knew they already knew this. 

“And do you think any less of her?” 

“No.” 

“What did you tell her when she couldn’t find me?” 

“I said…she needed to keep moving forward. But—” He swallowed. “What if we never find him? What if he’s wondering why no on has come to rescue him? What if I—“ His voice was thick with misery. “What if I fail him?” Before allowing him to spiral any further, Byleth intervened.

“Hubert, I’m assigning you homework.” 

“You are no longer my professor.” Hubert said with indignation. He ignored the fact that he still referred to Byleth as “professor.” 

“I can ask Edelgard to order you to complete my assignment.” Byleth paused. “But then we will have to explain why I’m giving you homework in the first place.” 

“What did you have in mind?’ Hubert ground out. 

“First, I want you to eat this.” They held out an apple. Hubert took a bite. It was at that moment that he realized how hungry he was. He took another bite and another. 

“I’m only eating this apple quickly because the sooner I eat it, the sooner you will leave me alone.” He clarified. The apple was gone in seconds. “Is that all?” 

“Only one more thing. Follow me.” Resigned to his fate, Hubert stumbled out of bed, put on his shoes, and followed Byleth through the door. The pair walked together in silence until they reached the stables. Byleth led Hubert to a coppery brown horse. 

“I want you to pretend this horse is Ferdinand.” Byleth said. 

“Excuse me?” 

“You’re not excused. At least not until you talk to Ferdinand.” 

“Perhaps it has escaped your notice Professor, but Ferdinand isn’t here.” Hubert was doing his best not to snarl at Byleth, but they were making it very hard. 

“I know. That’s why your assignment is to pretend this horse is Ferdinand and talk to him.” 

“This is a waste of time. I am not talking to a horse.” 

“Most of the Black Eagles are out so there’s not much of a chance that you will be overheard.”

“I will not be overheard, because I am not talking to the horse.” The horse snorted and twitched his ears. “See, even the horse agrees with me.” Hubert pointed out. 

“Then you leave me no choice.” Byleth placed their hands on their hips, and puffed out their chest. “I will play the role of Ferdinand.” Hubert didn’t dignify that with an answer but that didn’t deter Byleth. “I am Ferdinand von Aegir.” They stated in the most unemotional un-Ferdinand tone Hubert could have imagined. “Southern Fruit Blend. Horses. Collecting armor. Being noble. More horses.” Byleth listed. It was without a doubt the worst Ferdinand impression Hubert had ever seen. 

“Fine!” Hubert snapped. “I’ll talk to the horse.” 

“You mean Ferdinand.” 

“I will talk to…” Hubert looked at the horse. “…him.” 

“Good. And you are not to leave this spot until I come back in forty five…fifty minutes.” Byleth said and dropped another apple in Hubert’s pocket. “And don’t you dare try leaving early.” Then they turned and walked away. Hubert rolled his eyes. 

“Of all the stupid ideas Byleth has come up with, this one has to be the worst.” Hubert mumbled. Ferdinand the horse responded by blowing hot air into Hubert’s face and moving his muzzle closer to Hubert. He sighed and began to gently pet the horse’s muzzle. A few minutes passed when Hubert finally spoke. “I wish you were Ferdinand. Because then I’d know you were safe.” The only sounds Hubert heard were the other horses in their stables. “Where are you?” He whispered. More time passed. “I’m going to find you. Even if it’s the last thing I do. I promise. Just…please hang on until I get there.” He pulled an apple out of his coat pocket and held it out for Ferdinand the horse to take, but he accidentally knocked it out of Hubert’s hand. Ferdinand the horse started to investigate his empty hand. “Stupid beast. Did you not see the apple fall from my hand?” But when he moved his hand out of reach the horse continued to sniff at his pocket. He rolled his eyes. “You know that’s useless right? You’re just sniffing at where the apple came from, not where it ended u—” Hubert stilled. The horse started to nibble at his pocket, but Hubert didn’t move. His mind was racing. Where the apple came from…An idea sparked in his mind. His legs were already moving. Hubert had never run so fast in his life. He burst into Edelgard’s office without knocking (he’d apologize later). 

“La…dy…E…del…gard...” He could barely form words as he tried to talk and catch his breath at the same time. 

“Hubert?! Wha—?” She rose from her desk in alarm. 

“Javelins…of…light! Ailell…Arianrhod…Point of…origin…North wall!” He wheezed. 

“Hubert! Stop trying to talk. Take a deep breath. That’s an order.” Eventually, Hubert caught his breath enough to talk in complete sentences. 

“The javelins of light had to have been built and stored somewhere. Somewhere that they could access quickly enough to show their retaliation after we defeated Cornelia. What if we followed their flight path to their point of origin? They must have left some magical residue that we can follow. If we are able to calculate where the javelins came from, we might be able to narrow down the location of—” 

“Shambhala.” Edelgard finished. Her eyes glowed in excitement. 

***

“Everything okay, Marianne?” Byleth asked as they passed by their former student who wore a puzzled look. 

“Oh, um. Yes. Everything is fine. Hubert just made an unusual request…” 

“What did he want?” 

“He asked if I could give all the horses extra apples. Do you have any idea why?” Byleth almost smiled when they responded with… 

“No idea.” 

Chapter Text

1173

It was Hubert who suggested they spar in the Imperial Palace’s training yard. Loathe as he was to admit it, Hubert weaponry skills were just below Ferdinand’s. (Except with throwing knives, a skill that Ferdinand insisted Hubert help him practice.) So it wasn’t much of a surprise when Hubert found himself lying on the floor, his head spinning after Ferdinand swept his feet out from under him with a quick swipe of his lance. Before he could sit up, Ferdinand had rushed to his side. 

“Hubert?! Are you hurt? Did you hit your head?” Ferdinand asked anxiously.  Hubert, still a little dazed from the wind being knocked out of him, just stared at the ceiling. He was only vaguely aware of Ferdinand trying to cradle his head in his hands when the younger boy quickly pulled his hands away and made a horrified gasp.  “Oh goddess! No! No! No!” Ferdinand was instantly on his feet and running back inside the palace. 

About thirty seconds went by before Hubert sat up, rubbing the back of his head. He wasn’t surprised his hand came away wet, his white gloves now stained with a bit of blood.  Without warning five healers dashed into the training yard. They immediately swarmed around Hubert, bombarding him with questions and healing spells. 

“I’m fine. I just hit the back of my head.” Hubert quickly explained. He hated being the center of attention. And he especially hated it when people made a fuss over him. One heal spell later and he was back on his feet. The healers insisted he follow them to the infirmary to lie down for a bit as a precautionary measure. Not wanting to expend any energy arguing, Hubert acquiesced.  He had been laying down on one of the infirmary beds for about two minutes before a new healer ran into the room. 

“What happened?!” She said as she burst into the room, her eyes wild in panic. “I was told the Marquis’ son was in a horrible acciden—!” 

“Everything is okay.” Another healer interrupted and gestured to Hubert. “Our young Lord Vestra here just had a cut on the back of his head. It’s been healed. As you can see, he’s fine.” The new healer’s expression visibly relaxed. 

“Thank the goddess.” Suddenly a new healer hurried into the room. 

“What happened?! How is he?!” His eyes fell on Hubert. 

Every few minutes, a different healer would run in expecting an emergency only to be told the same story. About a dozen healers were now crowded into the room. They all shared similar stories: 

“He told me that the Marquis’ son smashed his head open.” 

“I was told he was dying.” 

“He told me his face was cut open and he was bleeding out.”

“He ran up to me and said there was an emergency in the infirmary. Before I could ask any questions he dashed off. He’s very fast for an eleven year old.” 

“He was crying so hard, I could barely understand him.”  

“He also told me the Vestra boy was dying.” 

“Can someone please find the Aegir boy?!” One of the healers exclaimed. “Before he sends every healer in the Palace into a panic!” 

A moment later two more healers ran into the room. “We heard there was a terrible accident! What happened?!”  The room of healers made a collective groan. Hubert just looked at his lap. He didn’t want anyone to know that he was incredibly touched. No one had ever shown so much concern for him before, much less tried to alert every healer in the Palace to aid him. 

With nothing else to do, most of the healers left the infirmary to track down Ferdinand. He was eventually found trying to leave the Palace grounds. He had saddled up Miss Horse and was attempting to convince the gatekeeper to allow him through. One of the healers brought him to the infirmary. When Ferdinand saw Hubert, he flew to Hubert’s side. 

“I-I-I a-am so-so-sorr-sorry-y-y!” It was clear that Ferdinand had been crying, but now he was practically hyperventilating. “I-I wanted t-t-to b-buy you an v-vulnerary a-at the a-ap-apoth-e-c-cary in t-to-town.” His hands still had flecks of Hubert’s dried blood on them. It took a while for Ferdinand to calm down. Hubert’s constant reassurance that he was truly okay seemed to be the only thing that Ferdinand listened to. The next time Hubert suggested they continue their weapon training, Ferdinand vehemently refused. When Hubert asked why not, Ferdinand looked at him with shame in his eyes. 

“I hurt you once already. And I never want to hurt you again.” 

1188

When it was discovered that those who slither in the dark, called themselves the Agarthans, everyone cheered for the shorter moniker. (Hubert tried not to be too offended.) The Black Eagle Strike Force worked tirelessly through the days and late into the nights. It still took another moon to locate Shambhala. And then another moon to fully investigate the underground city for reconnaissance. Hubert had to admit that Caspar and Raphael’s plan to charge straight into Shambhala with weapons raised and spells blazing was a very appealing option. He personally would’ve preferred to raze the blasted city to the ground, only letting up to search for Ferdinand. But the risk was too high. It was safer to observe and collect as much information as they could as they planned to infiltrate the Agarthan’s home base.  

When Edelgard said that she would be leading the charge into Shambhala, Hubert knew there was nothing he could say that would change her mind. Predictably, everyone volunteered to be a part of the mission. It took a lot of convincing to get certain people to stay behind; unfortunately, the Adrestian Empire wouldn’t run itself.

It was also risky to have too many Crestless members of the Strike Force running around Shambhala. One of the biggest security concerns was a member of the Strike Force being replaced with an imposter. They already knew firsthand that their enemies were masters of disguise. However, during one of their many reconnaissance missions, they were able to discover that while the Agarthans were able to transform themselves into perfect copies of anyone they wished, they were not able to replicate a person’s Crest. Normally Edelgard didn’t like using Crests for their personal advantage, but against the Agarthans, she’d make an exception. Hubert would forever be grateful to Edelgard that he was one of the few Crestless individuals who were chosen to go to Shambhala. When they finally made their move, Ferdinand had been in captivity for six moons. All Hubert could do was pray they weren’t too late. 

***

Hubert had walked down what felt like a thousand secret tunnels, when he finally heard a familiar voice. 

“—ready for a demonstration.” He recognized that voice. Myson. “Ready the test subject and bring it to the fourth laboratory. I don’t need to tell you what will happen if you keep Thales waiting.” Finally a lead! Hubert turned to Yuri and Felix. 

”Go find the others. Tell them that Thales is in the fourth lab. I’m going to scout out the area.” Before giving either of them a chance to respond, Hubert ducked out of sight and began to follow Myson, forgetting that he was supposed to be in the presence of a Crest bearer at all times. But he wasn’t exactly thinking straight at the moment. 

Hubert carefully followed the sound of several different footsteps scurrying away. Hubert didn’t care what Myson’s demonstration was, but if it meant that Thales would be there then he would use it to his advantage. He couldn’t get distracted by what the Agarthans were preparing. He needed to get to Thales. He needed to get to Ferdinand. Careful not to make a sound, Hubert followed Myson until they reached what Hubert guessed was the fourth lab. It wasn’t too difficult to enter undetected; Hubert wasn’t the Imperial Spymaster for nothing.

The fourth lab ended up being a large singular room. Despite its large size, it was practically empty. The only decorating was a large stone dais in the center at the very end of the room. In the middle of the dais, a large chain hung from the ceiling. Hubert hated to think what was to be hung there like a slaughtered animal. Luckily for Hubert, massive columns lined the walls and made for the perfect hiding spot. He hid himself behind one of the columns and watched Myson barking orders at a dozen dark mages. A few minutes passed before Thales himself entered. Every instinct Hubert possessed screamed at him to cast Dark Spikes T right through Thales’ heart (assuming he had one). But he knew he couldn’t act rashly. He needed to wait for the right moment. He watched Myson walk over to Thales.

“We are ready when you are.” Myson said. Thales just nodded and Myson commanded his men through the doors. “Bring in the test subject.” All eyes turned towards the large double doors. If Hubert was going to act, it had to be now, while everyone was distracted. He was about to cast Miasma ∆‚ to cause an even larger distraction when the doors opened, revealing two dark mages who appeared to be handling something, or rather someone, with little care. They brought the body forward and then unceremoniously dropped the poor creature on the ground at Thales’ feet. Hubert caught a glint of amber and felt his blood run cold as he recognized the “test subject.” 

Ferdinand. 

He was practically unrecognizable. Hubert already couldn't see him very well from his hiding spot. He would’ve assumed Ferdinand was just another poor soul who had the misfortune of being a prisoner of the Agarthans if not for his unmistakable amber hair. And that was only because of the color. The state of his hair was matted and messy; his beautiful flowing waves were no more. His body was on full display since no one had bothered to clothe him. The only thing he wore were manacles on his wrists and ankles; his left leg was wrapped in a splint. He was filthy from head to toe. He looked half starved. But the most worrisome part was after he had been thrown to the ground like Raphael’s burlap sack of rocks, he remained facedown and motionless. 

“And how is our beloved Prime Minister on this fine day?” Thales spoke as he nudged at Ferdinand’s body with his foot, a smug look on his face. Ferdinand didn’t move. Hubert knew he should leave and return with backup. But the thought of leaving Ferdinand alone with Thales made his stomach upset. “Nothing to say for yourself this time? Good.” Thales turned to Myson. “Let us begin.” Myson motioned to several dark mages who carried Ferdinand to the dais. They attached the chain to his manacles and hoisted him up by his wrists so his feet barely scraped against the floor. When he was secure, the dark mages backed away. Hubert would need to act fast. 

“With his blood, we’ll be one step closer to realizing our goal—“ Myson started monologuing. 

“Wait.” Thales held up a hand. “Before we begin, there is someone else who should be here to see this.” Without warning, Thales spun around and cast Hades Ω at the column Hubert was hiding behind. The explosion of debris and stone fragments knocked Hubert to the ground. The last thing he saw before his vision blurred was Thales standing over him, a wicked smile on his face. 

***

When Hubert regained consciousness his first thought was that his head really hurt. His second thought was that the hard ground he was sitting on was very cold. His third thought was that he was not alone. When he finally managed to open his eyes, he was greeted by Thales and Myson leering down at him. He instinctively tried to reach for one of his hidden knives, but his hands were chained behind his back and secured to the floor so he couldn’t move. 

“Look who’s finally awake. We were just thinking we should start without you.” Thales said as he and Myson both turned around to look at Ferdinand who was still dangling from the ceiling. They had chained Hubert to a spot on the floor right in front of the dais. Now that he wasn’t looking at Ferdinand from behind a faraway column, Hubert was able to get a clear view of him. He almost wished he couldn’t. Ferdinand looked so frail. He had lost a lot of weight. His skin was ashen. What Hubert thought (or maybe it was just wishful thinking) was dirt and grime on his body were actually half healed cuts and bruises, new and old. The worst part was his eyes. Ferdinand’s eyes reminded Hubert of the sun. Warm. Bright. But now they were dull and lifeless. If Hubert hadn’t seen the slight rise and fall of his chest that proved he was breathing, he would’ve thought he was looking at a corpse. He resisted the urge to call Ferdinand. Thales turned back to look at Hubert. 

“We agreed on an alliance with you because we had a common enemy in the Church of Seiros. So we allowed Edelgard to play dress up as the Flame Emperor. But no longer. We have let her run around freely with too much power unchecked for too long.”

”I won’t let you touch her!” Hubert snarled. Thales gestured towards one of the dark mages who walked over and held his hand near Hubert’s head. He could see the crackle of energy emanating from the dark mage’s hand. A warning not to move or he would be blasted with a Thoron spell. Then Thales continued. 

“I don’t think you're in a position to make threats. But don’t worry too much, we won’t hurt her…yet. She can still be useful to us. She just needs to know who is really in charge. And what better way than to demonstrate our power by using her own Prime Minister as an example.” Thales turned to Myson. “Do it.” 

Hubert could only stare in horror as he watched two dark mages appear on either side of Ferdinand. They were each carrying what looked like a small cannon that they were able to support on one shoulder. Both portable cannons had several Crest stones attached to them. They positioned themselves about fifteen feet from Ferdinand and pointed the cannons straight at him. 

“DON’T TOUCH HIM!” Hubert screamed, half in anger, half in desperation. Myson began to count down.

“Three…Two…” 

“STOP! PLEASE!” Hubert didn’t care that he was begging. 

“…One.” 

Hubert had never felt more powerless in his life as he watched the Crest stones activate. There was a bright glow and Hubert resisted the urge to look away. Then large beams of light burst from the cannons. It was like watching the javelins of light but on a smaller scale. And just like at Arianrhod, they hit their mark. The moment the beams hit their target, Ferdinand came back to life with a bloodcurdling scream. His body began to spasm violently. Hubert thought Ferdinand, motionless, at death’s door was the worst thing he could see. But he was wrong. Ferdinand had always been easy to read. And it was clear what Ferdinand was feeling at that moment. 

Agony. 

There was a flash of green light as Ferdinand’s Crest of Cichol activated. The mages kept up their attack, ignoring Hubert’s desperate pleas for them to stop. Finally, there was a deafening crack as Ferdinand’s Crest began to fracture and break apart. At that sound, Hubert felt something inside him shatter. 

“Enough.” Thales ordered. The mages stopped their onslaught, and Ferdinand’s body grew still. Hubert could see a small trickle of blood coming out of the corner of Ferdinand’s mouth, dripping onto the floor. 

“Alright, you’ve made your point, you maggot!” Hubert growled. “Now let him go!” 

“And why would I do that?” Thales said, as he walked up the dais until he was standing right next to Ferdinand. “Edelgard isn’t the only one who needs to be reminded to stay in line.” He wiped some of the blood off of Ferdinand’s chin with one of his talon-like fingers, and Hubert had an urge to chop Thales’ hand off with an axe. “Originally we only wanted him for his blood, and we had plans to obtain it in the future… But he was beginning to ask too many questions—”

“Just let him go!” 

“Oh, but we’ve only just begun. Personally, I think he would look good with white hair.” Thales’ taunting words had Hubert seeing red. His body acted on its own accord. He lashed out against his chains, snarling like a wild animal. The mage who was guarding Hubert, sent a small controlled Thoron spell that had Hubert clenching his teeth in pain. Thales laughed. 

“Let him go. Now!” Hubert barked. 

“But it took so much trouble to get him here.” 

“That’s nothing compared to the trouble I will cause you to break him out of here.” Hubert seethed. 

“How ironic. The person who wants to free him is the same person who imprisoned him.” 

“What are you talking about?” Hubert asked, almost forgetting to sound threatening. 

“Actually I should thank you, Hubert von Vestra. You are the reason we were able to subdue him so easily.” Hubert didn’t respond. “You still look confused. Maybe I should show you why you are the reason he is here.” Then Thales raised his arms and began to cast a spell Hubert didn’t recognize. Unable to stop him, Hubert could only watch until everything went black. 

≈≈≈

When Hubert opened his eyes he found himself standing on the outskirts of Hyrm. In front of him, stood a carriage that was surrounded by ten soldiers. As the carriage door opened, the soldiers drew their weapons, and a very familiar head of amber hair poked out. 

“Ferdinand!” Hubert called out. No longer chained to the ground, he went to move in Ferdinand’s direction but another voice from behind stopped him. 

“Don’t bother. This is just a memory. There’s nothing you can do but watch.” Thales sneered, standing a few paces away. Hubert lunged at Thales but his hands went through the Agarthan like he was made of smoke. Unable to do anything but look, Hubert turned his eyes back on Ferdinand who had stepped out of the carriage.  He faced his attackers, and Hubert was slightly comforted that he had a sword was strapped to his side. 

“Good afternoon. How may I help you on this fine day?” He asked calmly. Even with weapons pointed at him, Ferdinand was nothing if not professional. 

“You’re coming with us.” The soldier standing in front barked at him. 

“I see. Unfortunately, I am rather busy, if you send a letter to Enbarr and schedule an appointment—” 

“We’re under orders to bring you in, Prime Minister Aegir. So I suggest you come quietly.” 

“Then I am afraid to tell you that I have never been quiet a day in my life.” Ferdinand replied. Hubert resisted the urge to snort. 

“Then we’ll just have to take you by force.” The enemy soldiers all took a fighting stance, their weapons still pointed at Ferdinand. 

“My good people, let us not resort to violence. If we could just speak like civilized—” 

“There’s no talking your way out of this. You’re coming with us and that’s final!” The soldier snapped, he was clearly disappointed that Ferdinand wasn’t cowering in fear. 

“I see there is no reasoning with you. Very well.” Ferdinand unsheathed his sword. “But ten against one is hardly fair. It would be much more noble to fight me one at a time.” 

“This is a kidnapping! Not a gentlemen’s duel! Now drop the sword and back away from the carriage.” Ferdinand turned back to the carriage, and to Hubert’s horror, turned to Arundel who had also come out of the carriage, and handed him his sword. 

“Use this to protect yourself. But have no fear, Lord Arundel. I am Ferdinand von Aegir and I made a vow to protect our Emperor with my life and that extends to her family.” Ferdinand said confidently. Hubert cringed. If only he had told Ferdinand that Arundel couldn’t be trusted. He didn’t have to reveal that he was a bloodthirsty, shape shifting, power hungry megalomaniac who was over a thousand years old and the leader of a secret underground organization...But he could’ve at least warned him that Arundel was not to be trusted. Ferdinand turned back to face his opponents, now unarmed, but showing no fear. As he walked towards them, his enemies moved to surround him. “If you insist on fighting me together, then it is my noble duty to warn you that I am an excellent fighter. I am not trying to brag. I am just telling you that if you do not wish to die, I suggest you depart immediately. So consider yourself warned. For I will not hold back! Beginning…now.” 

“And just how does our dear Prime Minister think he can—” The soldier was interrupted by Ferdinand throwing a hidden knife at his throat. His aim was true. The soldier (and Hubert’s jaw) dropped like a stone. Ferdinand darted forward grabbing both his knife and the axe that had been in his victim’s hand. There were a few moments of stunned silence as the other soldiers just stared at their fallen comrade. Ferdinand pointed his newly claimed weapon at the rest of the group, his lighthearted demeanor was long gone. 

“Last chance.” 

Ferdinand’s final warning words were as cold as ice. A few seconds passed before the other nine soldiers charged. Hubert had seen Ferdinand train. He had seen Ferdinand in mock battles. He had seen him in real battles out of the corner of his eye. But not like this. He had never been able to see Ferdinand’s full fighting prowess so up close and personal. Hubert almost felt bad for the soldiers. Gone was the friendly, good natured, caring to a fault, man Hubert had grown to love. Again, the most noticeable change was his eyes. They still reminded Hubert of the sun. But instead of their usual gentle warmth, they were now radiating a fatal heat. He had become a raging inferno, burning down everything in his path without a second thought. Dangerous. Unrestrained. Glorious. Ferdinand’s deadly gaze sent shivers up Hubert’s spine. His heart was beating rapidly. His mouth had gone dry. Hubert resisted the urge to pull one of his gloves off his sweaty palm to fan himself with. Barely. Get it together! He scolded himself. 

Eventually, only Ferdinand and a single soldier were left standing. That final soldier had managed to disarm Ferdinand who was now facing his opponent empty handed. “You’re unarmed!” The soldier now had his sword pointed straight at Ferdinand’s throat. “Give up already!” Instead of responding with his usual excessive banter, Ferdinand knocked the blade away from his throat, and punched the soldier right in the face, who stumbled back a few paces before falling on his back. But Ferdinand wasn’t done. He picked up the dropped sword, stalked over, and planted his foot on the soldier’s chestplate to keep him from getting up. He held his newly claimed sword at his enemy’s throat. The soldier made a pathetic attempt to get free, but it was no use. 

“The only reason that you are still breathing is because I am allowing it.” Ferdinand spoke in a calm but dangerous tone. “Do you understand?” When the soldier didn’t respond, he pressed the blade harder. “Do. You. Understand?” A few seconds passed until the soldier weakly nodded his head. “Who do you work for? Who gave the order to capture me? What do they want?” 

“That would be me.” Arundel said as he walked slowly towards Ferdinand. He had left the carriage and Ferdinand’s sword behind him. Hubert had been so enraptured watching Ferdinand in action, he completely forgot that Arundel was still nearby. Ferdinand’s fury vanished only to be replaced with confusion. 

“Lord Arundel? I-I do not understand.” Without warning, Arundel cast Death Γ straight at Ferdinand, who dived out of the way just in time. The soldier he had been interrogating wasn’t as lucky. “What is the meaning of this? Why are you doing this? What’s going on?” Ferdinand demanded. 

“Come with me and I’ll tell you everything. No harm will come to you.” Arundel said calmly. Ferdinand raised an eyebrow. 

“Either you are lying or my name is not Ferdinand von Aegir.” 

Arundel snapped his fingers. A cloud of dark smoke enveloped him and when the dust had settled, Thales, leader of the Agarthans stood before Ferdinand. Not giving his opponent more than a second to take in his new appearance, Thales cast Hades Ω straight at Ferdinand, who managed to dodge just in time. Thales pulled out his own sword. The blade was much larger than the steel sword Ferdinand was holding, and the blade was rectangular instead of tapered to a point. Ferdinand held his ground. Thales was vicious, slashing and striking with his enormous blade not letting up for a moment. But Ferdinand was faster, dodging or blocking every attack that came his way. But then Thales unleashed a particularly brutal flurry of attacks that finally had Ferdinand’s blade breaking in two. Ferdinand used what was left of the blade to parry away one of Thales’ jabs before throwing it at his head. He missed Thales’ head by inches. But it was a good enough distraction for Ferdinand to then hit Thales with a Nosferatu spell. Thales barely flinched, but it gave Ferdinand enough time to pull a Hexlock shield off the body of a nearby soldier and use it to defend himself. After blocking multiple attacks, it was clear to Hubert that Ferdinand was tiring. Obviously aware of his situation, Ferdinand used the shield in a final ditch effort by using the shield as a battering ram to charge straight into Thales. They both fell over, but Ferdinand was back on his feet first. Without taking his eye off of his enemy, he quickly grabbed a lance that was laying on the ground before he faced Thales. Time seemed to slow for Hubert as he watched Ferdinand charge towards Thales at full speed.

And then it happened… 

As Ferdinand raised his lance, Thales cast one more spell. But this spell wasn’t directed at Ferdinand, but at Thales himself. Thales’ face transformed. And suddenly Ferdinand found himself swinging his lance to deliver the killing blow to— 

Hubert 

Ferdinand froze. The fire in his eyes was gone. His lance only inches away from Thales/Hubert’s head. The real Hubert would’ve been impressed by Ferdinand’s superior weapon control to stop mid attack if he wasn’t so utterly horrified by the scene in front of him. Thales took full advantage of Ferdinand’s hesitation and cast Quake ∑. 

“NO!” Hubert screamed, as he watched Ferdinand get hit point blank by such a powerful dark magic spell. Ferdinand was thrown backward and landed in a heap on the ground. Hubert stared in horror as Thales, wearing Hubert’s face, walked over to Ferdinand. He took the lance that Ferdinand had used to almost slice his head off and used the polished metal to look at his reflection. 

“My, my, how interesting.” Thales let out a sinister chuckle. “Really? Hubert von Vestra? Him? And I thought you had better taste than that. I’m disappointed, Prime Minister.” He discarded the lance and picked up a nearby axe while Ferdinand lay on the ground unmoving. Thales now stood menacingly over Ferdinand who was beginning to stir. He groaned, still dazed from the magic attack. “Can’t have you running away, now can we?” Thales admonished. A split second later, he swung the blunt side of the axe down on Ferdinand’s left leg at full strength. When the axe connected with his knee, Hubert heard a sickening crunch. Ferdinand screamed. And like before, everything went black. 

≈≈≈

Once again, Hubert found himself back at the fourth laboratory, still chained to the floor. Thales let out the same horrible chuckle that he made in the memory, before he spoke. “So you see? It’s all thanks to you that I was finally able to subdue him.” 

“Why?” Hubert asked, half in anger, the other half in confusion. “Why did you transform into me?” 

“You mean, you can’t guess?” Thales taunted. “The spell I used transforms myself into whoever the target loves most.” 

Chapter Text

1171 

Hubert was in his room, reorganizing his books, when he found it. A History of Fodlan. And tucked inside its pages was a light purple ribbon. Lady Edelgard’s ribbon. She had given it to him to use as a bookmark. He dropped the book on the floor and hugged the ribbon to his chest. His grief was overwhelming and hit him like a wave. Feelings of sadness, guilt, and loss crashed over him. His eyes were glassy with tears. All he could do was curl into himself on the floor, and pray that Edelgard would return to him. Then there was a knock on his door. Hastily wiping his eyes, Hubert stood up and walked over to his door. He took a deep breath before he opened it just a crack. Then without warning, Hubert’s door was swung open to reveal: Ferdinand von Aegir. Hubert tried to swing the door shut, but Ferdinand held out a hand to stop it from closing all the way. Hubert moved his body directly in front of Ferdinand so the smaller boy could not pass through. 

 “Hubert! Hi!” Ferdinand removed his hand and stepped closer into Hubert’s personal space, clearly expecting to be let in, but Hubert didn’t budge. This was not the first time that Ferdinand had dropped in unexpectedly. It was best to let Ferdinand say his piece, and then send him away. “May I come in?” He could only guess at why Ferdinand continued to approach him. He must be desperate to be around people his own age. He couldn’t think of any other reason. Why else would he seek Hubert out of all people? If the other Imperial children were here, Ferdinand would most definitely not give Hubert the time of day. Thinking about the Imperial children had his eyes stinging with tears again. He couldn’t let anyone (especially this loudmouthed child) see him in such a sorry state. 

“No.” Hubert said immediately.  

“Pleeeeaaassee.” Ferdinand implored. This brat was obviously used to getting everything he wanted. Hubert thought. 

“I said no!” Hubert tried to hiss but his voice cracked on the last word. His frustration was building and his tears were dangerously close to falling. He needed Ferdinand to leave. He went to slam the door in his face. At least he tried to but the Aegir pest stuck his foot in the door. 

“Ah ha!” The younger boy shouted triumphantly. “I am Ferdinand von Aegir! And I will not be ignored! This is not the first time someone has tried to close a door in my face! See how I have brilliantly foiled your plans to shut me out!” Hubert pushed harder on the door, not caring if he broke the other boy’s foot. Then to his absolute horror, a tear finally escaped and fell down his cheek; Ferdinand noticed immediately. “Hubert? Are…are you crying?” 

“No!” Unfortunately more tears took that opportunity to start falling again. He raised his hand to cover his eyes but as he did so, Ferdinand was able to pry the door open enough for him to fit through. Hubert immediately turned away from the door, running to the other side of his room as far from this intruder as he could. He heard the door close and prayed that Ferdinand had gotten the hint and was on the other side. His prayers went unanswered as he heard small footsteps coming toward him. 

“You dropped something.” Ferdinand said. Hubert glanced around to see what Ferdinand was talking about and saw Ferdinand picking something up from the floor. Lady Edelgard’s ribbon! 

“Don’t touch that!” Hubert whirled around and snatched the ribbon from Ferdinand’s grubby little hands. He held it tightly to his chest with both hands and retreated to a corner of his room. 

“Hey! You do not need to be mean. It is just a ribbon.” Ferdinand said indignantly, putting his hands on his hips. 

“It’s not just a ribbon! It’s Lady Edelgard’s ribbon!” Hubert snapped. 

“Edelgard…Oh, you mean one of the Imperial princesses?” Ferdinand no longer sounded annoyed, just curious. 

”Of course, I mean the princess!” Hubert spat. He closed his eyes trying not to let his emotions run wild. 

“Where is she now?” Ferdinand asked. 

“Faerghus.” He ground out. 

“When will she be back?” Ferdinand asked innocently enough, but Hubert had reached his limit. He turned and stepped towards the younger boy and stood right in front of Ferdinand.  Hubert’s anger was radiating off of him. 

“I don’t know!” He yelled inches away from Ferdinand’s face. ”She was taken away from me! And I don’t know when I will see her again! Do you really think I would be here without her by choice?! I tried to follow her, but my father sent his men after me to bring me back! And now I can’t leave this stupid palace! It’s not fair! I’m her vassal! I’m her protector! I’m supposed to stay by her side! She gives me purpose! You could never understand! Lady Edelgard is the most important person in the world to me! Without her, I’m nothing! And now she’s gone and I-I’m…I’m...” Hubert had never experienced getting choked up before and he found that he did not like it. He had never spoken any of these thoughts aloud. But somehow this obnoxious boy who wouldn’t leave him alone, drew it out of him. He wiped the tears from his eyes. “…I’m lost.” He choked out his last words. He looked at Ferdinand who was staring at him with wide-eyes. Suddenly mortified by his sudden loss of control, he practically ran over to his bed and flopped face down onto his pillow, wishing he could disappear into thin air. 

Less than a minute later, he heard small footsteps moving towards the door and then the sound of the door closing. Hubert breathed a sigh of relief. He wasn’t surprised that he had scared Ferdinand off. But his relief was short lived as he started to think about how the other boy would react. He’s probably laughing at me, Hubert thought sourly. He was so busy wallowing in his embarrassment that he didn’t hear the same footsteps walk over to his bed, followed by the sound of a book being opened. He could almost hear his father scolding him for his loss of control.  It took him a few seconds to realize that the voice he was hearing was not coming from his imagination. But it wasn’t Marquis Vestra’s voice. 

“Under the tyranny of ruthless disorder, the people endured a long period of suffering. The vile Nemesis, who proclaimed himself the King of Liberation, delighted in war and bloodshed. Rather than rebelling…”  Confused at what he was hearing, Hubert looked up from his pillow.  Ferdinand had sat himself, legs crossed, his back against the side of Hubert’s bed and was reading aloud from a book in his lap. It took a moment for Hubert to realize it was the book that Hubert found Edelgard’s ribbon in and had carelessly left on the floor. 

“…against her persecution, the people of Fódlan fell to his depths in a mad scramble to attain power through murder and theft.”

“What are you doing?” Hubert asked, too confused to be angry. 

“ What does it look like I am doing? I am reading.” Ferdinand said as if his behavior was completely normal. 

“What?” 

“I do not know what. It’s— I mean, it is your book.” Ferdinand said, completely misunderstanding. He flipped to the cover and read aloud, “A History of Fodlan, Part I.” He flipped back to the first page. “As I was saying…Saint Seiros appeared in the land of Enbarr and, through the many—” 

“Why are you—” 

Ferdinand held a finger to his lips. “Shhh. It is rude to interrupt.” 

“But why are you reading this book at all?” Hubert asked, still confused. 

“To make you feel better.” He gave Hubert a small smile. “Mother used to read to me to cheer me up whenever I felt sad. She…she is gone too.” Ferdinand said softly before continuing to read aloud. “—through the many unfathomable miracles she performed, spread light across the land.” 

Hubert was stunned. After all the times he literally closed the door in this younger boy’s face, he was still trying to cheer Hubert up? Hubert carefully rearranged his position on the bed so that he was still laying on his stomach, his feet kicking in the air, and his chin resting on his arms. Now he could look over Ferdinand’s shoulder and read along. Hubert had already read that book, so instead he just watched the other boy read. 

Ferdinand’s voice seemed to have a very calming effect on Hubert (at least when he wasn’t loudly projecting across the room like he was in an opera). As he read, Hubert didn’t even realize that his anger had gone from a raging wildfire to a smoldering hearth. He just focused on listening to the younger boy’s steady voice. By the time he finished the first chapter, Hubert almost forgot what he had been upset about. Ferdinand turned his head to look at Hubert. 

“Hubert?” He spoke softly. Hubert just hummed in response. “You might be lost. But you do not have to be lost, all by yourself.” When Hubert responded with silence, Ferdinand continued. “I read this book where a knight sets out on an adventure, but he gets lost in a forest. You are like that knight. And then he meets another knight in the same forest who is also lost. And then they work together to find their way home.” 

“And are you personally volunteering to be the other knight?” Hubert asked condescendingly. He chuckled humorlessly to himself. He knew that Ferdinand would balk and clarify that he had not meant himself. This boy might have meant well, but there was no way—

“Yes.” The younger boy said without hesitation. 

“Yes?!” Surely, Hubert had misheard…

“Yes. We can be lost and go on an adventure together like the knights in my book.” When Hubert just gaped at him. Ferdinand said, “I like adventures,” as if that explained everything. 

“R-Really?” 

“Of course. A noble like me would not lie.” Ferdinand looked Hubert in the eye to show he was serious. “I promise to stay with you for as long as you need me t—wait!” Ferdinand looked at the floor and muttered to himself. “Mother said a noble should never make a promise that he cannot keep…” He looked back at Hubert and put his hand on his heart. 

“I promise that I shall stay with you for as long as I can!” 

1188

Hubert said nothing. He reeled from the shock of Thales’ words. He felt like the air had been sucked straight out of his lungs. Whoever the target loves most? That couldn’t be true. It’s not possible. Ferdinand doesn’t love me. He moved on from me moons ago…Didn’t he? 

He stared at Ferdinand’s frail body still dangling limply from its chains. His heart ached and all he could think about was how badly he wanted to release Ferdinand from his bindings, take him into his arms, pull him close, and never let go. Hubert clenched his fists. If he could just cast Mire ß to melt this chain, then maybe…

“Don’t look so angry, Vestra.” Thales said. 

“Rot in Ailell!” Hubert snarled as he found his voice. Thales was now circling Ferdinand like a vulture, as he spoke. “Honestly, you should be thanking me. I don’t understand why Edelgard even bothered to keep him around as her Prime Minister. He only thinks with his heart because there is nothing in his head. But with him gone, she can find a suitable replacement.” 

Hubert couldn’t help but feel some satisfaction that Thales was blind to Ferdinand’s competency. His honorable disposition was constantly being mistaken for naïveté. And his kind nature was seen as a weakness. People tended to underestimate the Prime Minister, always to their own detriment. 

“I think we scrambled his brain a bit. When he did speak it was only to ask questions about horses.” Myson said offhandedly. Hubert wasn’t sure what to make of that. Apart from Marianne, Ferdinand had more equestrian knowledge than anyone Hubert knew. What questions would Ferdinand even ask? Had he been driven mad? Hubert’s mind was interrupted from spiraling further by a loud bang on the other side of the door, followed by another sound that Hubert recognized as Caspar’s battle cry. Thales, Myson, and the dark mages in the room all turned towards the entrance. 

Suddenly, both doors flew off their hinges revealing an enraged Edelgard. “Thales! You can’t stop me!” She screamed, and raised a glowing red Aymr in her hands. 

“Shoot her!” Thales commanded the dark mages with the cannons of lights who pointed their weapons at the Emperor. 

“Lady Edelgard! Watch out!” Hubert yelled as one of the cannons fired. 

She raised Aymr and used it to shield herself from the beam. But as she held off one beam, the other dark mage aimed the second cannon at her. There was no way for her to hold off both. Hubert’s next warning shout came too late as the second cannon went off. A split second before the beam made contact with Edelgard, another glowing red shape appeared and blocked the attack. Hubert squinted through the dust just enough to make out Felix using his Aegis Shield to cover Edelgard’s other side. The beams of light did not let up, but neither did the two relics. Unfortunately, as Edelgard and Felix busied themselves holding off the cannons of light, many Agarthan mages and soldiers began to appear out of the woodwork. Even the dark mage who had been holding a Thoron spell over Hubert’s head left his side to join the other mages in a battle formation. They were severely outnumbered. But before Hubert could warn his two allies, he saw more glowing red shapes appearing behind them. The Strike Force! The other Heroes’ Relics! As Edelgard and Felix held off the beams, the other members of the Black Eagle Strike Force came crashing in, their weapons drawn. 

Sylvain appeared in between Felix and Edelgard, ready to impale anyone who got too close with the Lance of Ruin. Balthus charged right down the middle of one battalion, using Vajra-Mushti like a battering ram, knocking down multiple enemies to clear a path to one of the beams of light. Annette followed after him and with Crusher and immobilized the mage who was operating the first cannon. While Ingrid flew over the chaos on her pegasus, slashing Lúin downward at the other mage who held the second cannon. Once the beams were stopped, the room turned into a full blown battlefield as the rest of the Strike force rushed in. But Hubert wasn’t paying attention to any of that. Right now there was only one thing he could think about: getting out of these manacles! 

Now that no one was paying any attention to him, he took the opportunity to cast Mire ß at the chain that was keeping him trapped to the ground. When the metal was thoroughly corroded, he yanked as hard as he could until it broke free. He jumped up and rushed over to the first friendly face he saw and held out his bound hands. 

“Caspar! Get these manacles off of me!” As happy as Hubert was to see his allies, he didn’t have time for pleasantries. Caspar eyed Hubert suspiciously. 

“How do I know you’re the real Hubert?” A part of Hubert was pleased that Caspar was being cautious. However, now was not the time. 

“Of course, I’m the real Hubert, you idiot! Now get these manacles off me so you can go back to your morale boosting battle cries!” 

“Hubert! It is you!” Caspar grinned as he used his axe to remove the manacles. 

“Now find Linhardt, Marianne, or Mercedes and tell them to come find me!” Hubert ordered. Without waiting for a response, Hubert made a mad dash for the dais. Nothing would deter him from the man he loved. He was only vaguely aware that Lorenz almost ran him over with his horse and Hapi almost hit him with her Swarm Z spell as he dashed past a group of dark mages she had been aiming at. He also barely noticed that any Agarthan who tried to challenge him were shot down by arrows from Bernadetta and Ashe who remained hidden from plain sight. 

When he got close enough, he sent a single Dark Spike T spell at the chain holding Ferdinand up. Ferdinand fell like a puppet with its strings cut, but Hubert caught him just in time from hitting the stone floor. 

“Ferdinand?” Hubert spoke quietly, ignoring the chaos that surrounded them. He only had eyes for Ferdinand. He carefully laid Ferdinand on the ground, mindful of his left leg, and held his head gently in his lap. No response. He checked for a pulse. It was faint, but it was there. 

“Ferdinand?” Hubert whispered. “Ferdinand? Can you hear me? Please wake up.” He carefully brushed the hair out of Ferdinand’s glassy, unseeing eyes. A single drop of water fell onto Ferdinand’s forehead. Rain? Underground? Still no response. Hubert drew Ferdinand into his chest and held him tightly as he pleaded softly in his ear. “It’s okay. You’re going to be okay. You have to be okay. I’m so sorry, Ferdinand. Just please… please wake up. Stay with me.” 

“Hubert?” A voice called out. He looked up but was surprised to find that his vision was blurry. He could barely make out Mercedes and Linhardt as they ran to him. It was at that moment that Hubert realized he was crying. 

“Please.” He didn’t care how broken he sounded. “Please, help him.” 

“Lay him down.” Mercedes instructed. When Hubert didn’t let Ferdinand go, Linhardt roughly grabbed one of Hubert’s shoulders. 

“Hubert, listen to me. You need to put Ferdinand down. Mercedes and I will heal him, but you need to let go. I need you to cover us to make sure that no one tries to attack us while we’re healing him. Can you do that?” Reluctantly, Hubert nodded and carefully set Ferdinand down. He watched as both Mercedes and Linhardt began casting healing spells. Then the next part of Linhardt’s instructions registered. He needed to protect them. He needed to protect Ferdinand. Hubert turned to the ongoing battle and began casting Dark Spikes T at any enemy who got too close. By then Marianne had also joined them and helped him protect the healers and their new patient with her sword, Blutgang. Then he spotted Myson trying to slip away. Suddenly his rage returned in full force. 

“Prepare to die!” Hubert screamed as he cast the strongest Miasma ∆ he could summon. Finally, the only Agarthan left standing was Thales. The rest of the Strike Force had him completely surrounded. He had tried to cast a spell, but his magic was depleted. Edelgard stood before him, her weapon raised above his head. 

“This battle is your last!” Edelgard thundered as she swung Aymr down. 

The moment after Thales took his final breath, Hubert was back at Ferdinand’s side. Once Linhardt and Mercedes deemed him stable enough to be moved, Hubert carefully wrapped him in his cape. He then lifted Ferdinand into his arms, unsettled by how little he weighed, and did not let go until they left Shambhala. 

After returning to Enbarr, Edelgard had delegated the majority of his work to other members of the Strike Force. For once, Hubert didn’t complain. It gave him more time to stay with Ferdinand. He spent every spare minute he could at Ferdinand’s bedside. He did his best to stay out of the way. If Linhardt and the other healers found his constant hovering presence annoying they mercifully kept it to themselves. Unfortunately, Hubert was useless when it came to healing spells and all he could do was watch from the sidelines. Eventually, Marianne and Mercedes took pity on Hubert and asked him to help with non magical tasks for Ferdinand’s care so he didn’t feel completely useless. They showed him how to change Ferdinand’s bandages, how to keep him clean and dry, and how to exercise his body to prevent tight joints and bedsores. And no one had to ask who went through the trouble of washing Ferdinand’s hair as well as giving him a clean shave, when no one had been instructed to. 

***

Hubert thought that once Thales was dead and Shambhala was under the Empire’s control, a huge weight would be lifted from his shoulders. But it had just moved downwards. Now it was his heart that felt heavy. 

Almost two weeks had passed after they returned to Enbarr. Ferdinand’s condition had not improved. Hubert was sitting in his usual chair at Ferdinand’s bedside when Mercedes delivered the bad news. 

“I’m sorry, Hubert. But…we’re losing him.” Mercedes said softly. Hubert’s insides twisted with dread. “We’re still trying everything we can—“ 

“So try harder!” Hubert snapped, immediately regretting his harsh delivery. “Sorry. I didn’t mean—” Hubert began, but Mercedes just waved it off, completely unbothered. 

“It’s natural to be worried about someone you love.” Hubert didn’t bother to deny it. “Manuela, Marianne, and I are all doing our best to help him. We were able to heal his injuries, although his left leg will need more time, it looks like it was broken several different times. Despite that, he just gets weaker no matter what we do. We thought he wasn’t waking up because the Agarthans harvested his blood over such a long period of time. But Linhardt believes the problem lies—” 

“—with his Crest.” Linhardt finished as he entered the infirmary. “The Agarthans put his Crest under immense stress. They pushed his Crest to the limit and then pushed it even further. ” His usual aloof tone was tinged with worry. “I’ve never seen a Crest take so much damage before. I didn’t even know they could. We’ve been assuming that the rate of recovery for a Crest is a much slower process. I think that’s why he hasn’t woken up yet. It’s like waiting for an injury to heal itself naturally without the help of magic.” 

“But even if a Crest needs more time to heal, shouldn’t he be getting stronger as more time passes?” Hubert asked. 

“He should be.” Mercedes said, looking worriedly at the patient. 

“What’s that supposed to mean?” 

“It means we’re not sure what else we can do. By all accounts he should be improving albeit slowly. But…” Linhardt trailed off. Mercedes finished his thought. 

“It’s like…he’s just giving up.”

***

When the healers had gone to bed, Hubert moved his chair even closer to Ferdinand. He took his handkerchief and carefully wiped away any sweat on Ferdinand’s forehead. Then he hesitantly took Ferdinand’s hand in his. Ferdinand’s skin was cool and clammy. “Ferdinand…” Hubert whispered. “Can you hear me?” Hubert knew he wouldn’t get a response, yet the silence that followed still made his heart ache. “You probably can’t hear me.” 

But even so, your relentless optimism…Well. Suffice it to say that it is your best quality. 

“But if you can hear me…” The room was quiet for some time before Hubert spoke again, a bit louder this time. ”I…I’m so sorry. This…all of this…this is my fault. As much as it pains me to admit it, you were right. I should’ve told you about the Agarthans. But…” He could feel a tear trickle down his cheek. “…I was afraid. I didn’t want you to get involved because I was afraid that you might get hurt.” He let out a humorless chuckle. “But in the end it didn’t matter. I failed you.” More silence. Even in the dark, Ferdinand’s hair still glowed. “I’m not sure what to say. I’m not used to having a one-sided conversation with you…I suppose that is not true, but usually you’re the one talking and I’m the one listening.” He gripped Ferdinand’s hand tighter. “I wish I could tell you that if it hurts too much and you can’t keep going, you can let go. Partly because knowing you, you would wake up within the next hour just to show you can. You always did enjoy proving me wrong.” Another pause. “But mostly because I can’t lose you. Because…” His voice dropped to a whisper. “Because I love you. I love you, Ferdinand von Aegir…from the bottom of my heart.” The words felt so right, yet the situation was so wrong.  A sob forced its way out of him. Hubert wasn’t sure how much time passed, but when he finally managed to catch his breath, the sky had begun to turn orange in preparation for the sun to rise. The color reminded Hubert of Ferdinand’s eyes. “I know I’ve lost any right to ask you for anything…But I only have one request.” Hubert took a deep breath. “Please don’t give up.” Another deep breath. “Don’t leave me alone.” 

An idea was sparked into life in Hubert’s mind. “I will be right back.” He said to Ferdinand, as he got up to exit the infirmary. He returned a few minutes later, with a book in hand. He settled himself back in his chair. He opened the book to the first page and began to quietly read aloud. 

“Under the tyranny of ruthless disorder, the people endured a long period of suffering. The vile Nemesis, who proclaimed himself the King of Liberation, delighted in war and bloodshed. Rather than rebelling against his persecution, the people of Fodlan fell to his depths in a mad scramble to attain power through murder and theft.”

Chapter Text

1175

The wind howled as it pushed Hubert back. But nothing was going to stop him from reaching his destination. He pulled his cloak tighter around himself, and trudged on. When he finally arrived, the wind had died down to a gentle breeze. On the very edge of the palace grounds was a small pond. As he got closer, he spotted a head of amber hair. The younger boy was sitting at the edge of the water. He was hugging his knees to his chest, his chin resting on top. Hubert made sure to be quiet enough so as not to scare his friend off, but loud enough for Ferdinand to hear him. (The last time Hubert snuck up on him, Ferdinand was so surprised that he almost accidentally threw a cup of scalding hot tea in Hubert’s face.) Hubert didn't stop until he was standing next to Ferdinand. 

“I am not going back. You cannot make me.” Ferdinand stated sullenly, in lieu of a greeting. 

“I wasn’t going to try.” Hubert reassured him. 

“Then…why are you here?” 

“I thought you would like the company. May I sit?”  Ferdinand nodded. Hubert sat down beside him and gently put his arm around his shoulders. The moment he did, Ferdinand returned the gesture by throwing his arms around Hubert and pressing his face into his chest. They stayed like that for a while, Hubert occasionally rubbing Ferdinand’s back. Eventually the front of Hubert’s shirt grew damp. (He hoped that the wetness came from Ferdinand’s eyes rather than his nose.) When Ferdinand finally released Hubert from his grasp, he curled in on himself, tightly hugging his knees to his chest again. 

“Sorry.” Ferdinand mumbled. 

“It’s fine.” Hubert tugged at his shirt in an attempt to dry it. Neither spoke as they stared at the pond. 

“Hubert?” 

“Hm?” 

“Were you happy…when you became Edelgard’s vassal? How did it feel to have your life tied to someone else’s for the rest of your life? Someone that your parents picked for you?” Ferdinand looked at Hubert with big questioning eyes. 

“Is this about your engagement to the girl from Varley?” 

“All I know about her is that she never sets foot outside of her room and she makes little dolls to curse people with!” Ferdinand said anxiously. 

“I’m sure that’s an exaggeration.” Hubert said. “And I hardly remember how I felt when I was told I was going to be Lady Edelgard’s retainer. I was six. I don’t think I fully understood my role at the time. I didn’t really know what to expect.” 

“And now?” Ferdinand asked quietly.  Hubert felt a pang of sadness as he thought about Edelgard. 

“I’m…grateful that I was given the opportunity to serve Lady Edelgard. She is so important to me. It’s hard… not being with her.” Ferdinand rested his head on Hubert’s shoulder. 

“I’m sure you will see her again soon.” He sounded so sincere, Hubert could do nothing but believe him. 

“I hope so.” 

***

Hubert didn’t keep track of how long they sat there, but the sun was starting to set.  He stood up, holding out his hand to Ferdinand who just stared back up at him. 

“Come Ferdinand, let me bring you home.” 

“You should go back without me. I do not want you to miss your curfew.” Ferdinand said as he turned his head to look back at the pond. 

“I will stay as long as you need me to stay.” Hubert said patiently. 

“But your curf—”

”If you don’t want me to miss my curfew, I suggest you come back with me.” Hubert smirked knowing that his friend would now definitely come back with him. Ferdinand seemed to realize this too and pouted. 

“Ugh, fine.” They both stood up. But when Ferdinand tried to take a step, his left leg buckled and he sat back on the ground.

“Are you okay?” Hubert looked at him closer. He didn’t look hurt. 

“I-I umm…” Now Ferdinand blushed. 

“You what..?” 

“I fell, okay!” Ferdinand snapped at him. “I jumped off a small ledge and I landed on my foot wrong.” He groaned but it was more out of embarrassment than pain. 

”So you can’t walk?” 

“I already told you. Just go without me.” He hid his face in his hands. Hubert sighed. He walked in front of Ferdinand, turned away from him and squatted down. 

“Get on.” Hubert said, resigned to his fate of having to carry his friend all the way back. 

“Get on what?” 

“Have you never had a piggyback ride before?” 

“A pig-what?” 

“I’ll take that as a no. It’s easy, you just climb on my back and I will carry you. Edelgard and her siblings gave piggyback rides to each other all the time.” 

“Are you certain?” 

“I’m not leaving you behind. Now get on!” Hubert said impatiently. 

“Um…okay…” Ferdinand still hesitated. 

“It’s just like riding Miss Horse…if Miss Horse walked on two legs.” Now that Hubert said it aloud it sounded rather stupid. But it seemed to work, because without another word, Ferdinand grabbed ahold of Hubert’s shoulders. He lifted Ferdinand onto his back and began to walk towards the Aegir manor. After a minute of walking, Ferdinand started to giggle. 

“What’s so funny?” Hubert was happy to hear Ferdinand’s jovial laugh. 

“I was just thinking that I should reward you with a carrot, like I do with Miss Horse.” Hubert changed his mind, Ferdinand’s laugh was loud and obnoxious. “What do you say, Miss Hubert? Would you like a carrot?” Ferdiand said failing to hold back another giggle. 

“If you call me that, I’ll dump you on the ground and leave you here alone to die.”  Ferdinand began to laugh harder. Hubert was glad that his friend couldn’t see his face so he didn’t have to hide his own smile. They traveled a bit further in silence, until Ferdinand popped the question. 

“What if I married you?” Hubert almost hurt his own foot when he stumbled, but Ferdinand didn’t seem to notice (too busy patting himself on the back for having such a great idea.) “So I won’t have to marry the girl from Varley.” 

“I don’t think it’s that simple.” Hubert replied, trying to sound as nonchalant as possible.  He slowed his steps so there was more time for his blush to dissipate. Ferdinand let out an annoyed huff. 

”Well it should be.” 

***

“Thank you for carrying me back. You are like one of the heroes in my storybooks, who saves the day.” 

“Does that make you a damsel in distress?” Hubert snickered. 

Ferdinand wrinkled his nose. “I am not a damsel!” His disapproving look turned sheepish. “But…I suppose I was in distress.” 

“So do I get a token of affection for saving you?” Hubert joked. Ferdinand reached into his pockets but came up empty handed. He frowned. 

“I do not have anything to give you…” He said glumly. 

“It’s okay. I was only joking.” Hubert reassured his friend. But Ferdinand was not listening. He was too busy thinking of a way to show his appreciation. Suddenly his eyes lit up. 

“Oh, I know!” He said excitedly. He gestured for Hubert to lean in closer. Then without any warning, Ferdinand pressed a quick kiss to Hubert’s cheek. “There!” Ferdinand beamed. “Well, you had better not miss your curfew. I will see you tomorrow. Goodnight, Hubert!” And with that, a unfazed Ferdinand turned around, careful of his foot, and stepped inside like it was just another day. Hubert wasn’t sure how long he stood outside of the Aegir manor completely flustered and frozen in place. He headed back towards the Palace when his heartbeat had returned to its normal speed. But there was nothing he could do about the warm, tingling sensation that lingered on his cheek. 

1188 

Hubert was almost finished with a History of Fodlan when Ferdinand’s condition finally showed signs of improvement. None of the healers could figure out how or why Ferdinand’s health went from failing to healing, but no one questioned it. Linhardt wanted to do slightly more invasive tests, but was immediately outvoted. No one dared disrupt Ferdinand’s volatile healing process. It was like the entire palace was holding its collective breath. So they just continued to monitor Ferdinand as his condition improved, at all times. Hubert volunteered to watch him at night. And at night when no one else was around, Hubert continued to read to him. 

When Ferdinand finally opened his eyes, two months after his rescue, Hubert felt his heart soar. It was the middle of the night and everyone else was asleep. Seeing his amber eyes again was like seeing the sun shining in the sky. 

Then Ferdinand saw Hubert sitting at his bedside and his gaze darkened, like a cloud covering the sun. He turned his head away from Hubert. 

“Ferdinand?” Hubert tried. But he was met with silence. He gently touched Ferdinand’s shoulder. The other man violently flinched away as if Hubert’s hand burned him. 

“Get away from me!” Ferdinand rasped. His voice was rough from disuse but his tone was harsh. He rolled onto his side so his back was turned and his whole body was as far from Hubert as possible. Hubert’s heart sank. 

“S-sorry.” Hubert stammered as he pulled his hand back. Neither man spoke for a while until Hubert broke the silence. “Is…is there anything I can get for you? Anything you need?” He asked meekly as he stared at the back of Ferdinand’s head. No response. “Ferdin—“

”I have nothing to say to you!” Ferdinand growled, still not looking in Hubert’s direction. More silence. But Ferdinand was never one to sit still for too long, and eventually he peeked behind his shoulder.  When he saw that Hubert was still there, he fell back into his original position, as far from the other man as possible. “Just go away.” He sounded exhausted. He sounded broken. 

“I don’t want to leave you alone.” Hubert said quietly. Ferdinand rolled onto his back and stared blankly at the ceiling, not meeting Hubert’s eye. 

“It is not like I am able to go anywhere.” Ferdinand glared at the ceiling. “You made sure of that, when you shattered my knee.” Of course Ferdinand blamed him for all the injuries his body sustained. How could he not? Hubert blamed himself as well. He tried apologizing again.  

“I’m sorr—” 

“Spare me your meaningless apologies.” Ferdinand snapped, then winced in pain as he struggled to sit up. Hubert considered helping him, but thought better of it. When Ferdinand managed to get his body into an upright position, his breathing was heavier from the effort it took just to sit up. When his breaths became steadier, he turned and looked at Hubert. The moment their eyes met, Hubert felt his heart break. Ferdinand’s voice was quiet but full of resentment. 

“I already told you…” 

The look in Ferdinand’s eyes said it all. Anger. Distrust. Betrayal. Hatred. And another emotion that Hubert couldn’t put his finger on. It wasn’t that he was unfamiliar with these emotions. He knew these emotions intimately. They had been close companions to Hubert for his entire life. But this was different. This was Ferdinand. 

“…You can break my bones, but you will not break me. So just go away and do not come back...” 

Hubert had never fallen through ice into freezing water before. But if he had to guess, it must feel like this. He felt cold. Really cold. So fucking cold that it burned. He couldn’t think; his head swam. His eyes stung. His lungs screamed for oxygen but he couldn't breathe. The tattered remains of his heart beat wildly. He felt everything and nothing all at once. It was like the world was collapsing around him and all Hubert could do was watch as Ferdinand shouted his final words. 

“…Because I never want to see you again, Thales!” 

All of Hubert’s thoughts came screeching to a halt. And he realized what emotion was in Ferdinand’s eyes that he didn’t recognize at first. Fear. 

Because Ferdinand thinks I’m Thales. 

When this horrible realization dawned on Hubert, he almost smacked his forehead. How could he have been so stupid?! How could he have made such a huge oversight?! As far as he knew, the last time Ferdinand had seen Hubert’s face was when Thales had used it to catch him off guard and capture him, before bringing him to Shambhala. Hubert hoped that had been the extent of it, but based on how Ferdinand was behaving, he wouldn’t be surprised if the Agarthans had tried that tactic multiple times.

“Ferdinand, it’s me, Hubert. It’s really me. Thales is dead.”

“You would have better luck convincing me that you are Sothis herself.” Ferdinand said coldly. Hubert wished he could bring back Thales and Myson back from the dead just so he could kill them all over again. 

Ferdinand’s quick outburst seemed to drain all his energy. He was no longer glaring at Hubert. He just stared down into his lap as he sat hunched over. Hubert wondered if Ferdinand would even notice if he stepped out of the room. He considered leaving to find someone else who could vouch for him being the real Hubert. But leaving Ferdinand alone didn’t seem like a good idea. He couldn’t risk Ferdinand trying to escape and potentially hurting an innocent bystander (Ferdinand would never forgive himself). He considered sending a message but he was concerned it would make him look more suspicious. No, Hubert was on his own. Maybe if he told Ferdinand how he was rescued, the other man would believe him. 

“Ferdinand…” He said slowly, carefully choosing his words. “You’re safe now. We used the trajectory of the javelins of light to ascertain the exact location of the Agarthan city, Shambhala. Then certain members of the Strike Force infiltrated their base, rescued you, and then brought you home. That was about two moons ago.”

“Which members of the Strike Force went to Shambhala?” Ferdinand’s voice was full of suspicion. 

“Everyone wanted to be a part of the rescue team. But ultimately we decided on myself, Her Majesty, Caspar, Linha—“ Hubert began but he stopped short when he saw that Ferdinand was shaking his head and had a smile on his face that didn’t reach his eyes. “Something funny?” Hubert couldn’t help but ask. 

“Now I know you aren’t really Hubert. The real Hubert wouldn’t have allowed Edelgard to go on such a dangerous mission. Especially not for me.” Hubert made a mental note to address this later when Ferdinand didn’t think he was Thales in disguise. Maybe he should start with convincing Ferdinand that he wasn’t in Shambhala. 

“You are no longer in Shambhala. You’re in Enbarr now. We brought you back to the Imperial Palace where you’ve been staying during your convalescence.” He watched Ferdinand take in his surroundings. He seemed to recognize the infirmary, but then he glanced out the window. Since it was the middle of the night it was difficult to see the city. 

“It looks like Shambhala.” Ferdinand said before whispering to himself. “So much darkness…” 

“That’s only because it’s the middle of the night. I can take you outside when it’s light enough.” Hubert tried to reassure Ferdinand, but the other man looked unconvinced.

“I’m not going anywhere with you!” He spat. Hubert fought the urge to grimace. It was a bad idea anyway. Hubert didn’t want to extend Ferdinand’s suffering for hours by waiting for dawn. Also, he was pretty sure none of the healers would let Ferdinand leave the infirmary so soon after regaining consciousness. He had to think of something only the real Hubert would know. 

“I could tell you about Imperial battle strategies that only I, Her Majesty, Byleth, and you know about.” 

“I have no way of checking if what you tell me is still a secret. For all I know, those strategies have been implemented within the last few moons and you are only pretending it is secret information.” This was harder than Hubert thought. He had to think of something more personal, something no one knows. He was about to mention his younger siblings but then realized that Ferdinand didn’t know about them either so he wouldn’t know Hubert was telling the truth. 

“When we were still posted at Garreg Mach, you gifted me with coffee and in return I gave you tea.” This time it took Ferdinand a little longer to come up with a response. 

“That exchange happened in public where anyone could have been watching.” 

“I like owl feathers.” Hubert tried. Ferdinand gave him an unimpressed look. 

“Everyone likes owl feathers.” Okay that one was stupid, but Hubert was running out of ideas. In his defense his usual methods to gain someone’s trust was through deception and bribery. Or he just resorted to threats.

“How can I convince you that it’s really me?” Hubert implored. Ferdinand’s head drooped even lower, still not looking at Hubert.  When he finally spoke he sounded despondent. 

“I have lost count of how many times you have asked me that. I have lost count of how many times you tried to convince me that you are the real Hubert. But still every time, I ask you the same question. And you always give the wrong answer.” Hubert waited for Ferdinand to ask but the other man grew quiet. They sat in further silence until Hubert couldn’t take it anymore. 

“And what is the question?” Hubert probed as gently as he could. Ferdinand let out a tired sigh. 

“I don’t know if I can take another wrong answer.” He murmured. He sounded like he had already given up. 

“Ferdinand. Please. Please ask me.” Hubert pleaded anxiously. He wasn’t sure what he would do if Ferdinand decided it wasn’t worth giving him another chance. Luckily for Hubert, Ferdinand’s optimism had always been relentless. When Hubert saw Ferdinand opening his mouth to speak, he held his breath. 

“What color was Mister Horse?” 

Hubert exhaled. 

“I don’t remember—” Ferdinand closed his eyes and let out a defeated sigh. “—what color Miss Horse was.” Hubert finished softly.

Ferdinand’s eyes immediately snapped open. He looked up from his lap and slowly turned his head to face Hubert. Ferdinand’s amber eyes glistened with unshed tears and fragile hope. “Hubert?” He whispered as he searched Hubert’s face. “Is-is it really you?” A single tear escaped and fell down Ferdinand’s cheek. Unable to stay away any longer, Hubert slowly stood from his chair and carefully sat on the edge of the bed. 

“It’s really me.” He slowly brought his hand to Ferdinand’s cheek. When Ferdinand did not flinch away, Hubert couldn’t help but smile in relief. He wiped away the tear with his thumb. “And if it helps, I can put it in writing.” 

Without warning, Ferdinand threw his arms around Hubert. He smushed his face into the crook of Hubert’s neck as he began to cry in earnest. Hubert carefully wrapped his arms around Ferdinand’s trembling body and rubbed comforting circles on his back. Nothing could have moved Hubert from this spot. He finally had the man he loved in his arms. And he would stay as long as Ferdinand needed him. 

***

It was a while before Ferdinand’s tears stopped flowing (and for his nose to stop running). “I-I’m sorry.” Ferdinand finally croaked out. Eventually he lifted his head and looked up at Hubert. His eyes were red and puffy, his lips were chapped, his skin was pale, his hair needed a good brushing, and his nose was still running a bit. Hubert thought he looked beautiful. 

“You have nothing to apologize for.” Hubert reassured him. “I don’t blame you for what you said. You thought you were speaking to Thales. If I was in your position I wouldn’t have bothered with words. I would’ve just tried to cast Miasma ∆ in your face.” 

“Actually I was apologizing for soiling your shirt.” Ferdinand said a little sheepishly. Hubert looked down at his shirt and saw a large wet spot where Ferdinand’s face had just been a minute ago. 

“Oh. Don’t worry about it.” 

“Although now that you mention it…” Ferdinand gave Hubert a guilty look. “I would like to extend my sincerest apologies for saying such cruel things to you. Please know that I did not mean any of it! When I was imprisoned, Thales disguised himself as you and tried to convince me that I had been rescued so many tim—“

“Ferdinand!” Hubert cut him off. “Like I already said, you have nothing to apologize for.”  

“Actually there is something I need to apologize for.” He took a deep breath before continuing and looked at Hubert with remorse in his eyes. To Hubert’s disappointment, Ferdinand pulled back from his embrace. Unable to stop himself, Hubert reached out and put a hand on Ferdinand’s and gave what he hoped was a comforting squeeze. To his relief, Ferdinand did not pull away. 

“I am so sorry, Hubert.” His eyes glistened with more tears. “I am so, so incredibly sorry because… you were right. And I was a fool.” Hubert just gave him a questioning look. “I should have never tried to force myself into your affairs with the Agarthans.” Ferdinand took another deep breath. “While I was away in Leicester, I tried to make sense of everything my father left behind: his journals, ledgers, miscellaneous records, contacts, etc because I knew he was connected somehow. Honestly, I did not accomplish much on my own. But I realize now that I started asking questions that must have aroused suspicion. I greatly overestimated my capabilities for subterfuge and stealth. In short, I stuck my nose where it did not belong.” 

“You’re sorry?” Hubert was dumbfounded. Of all the things that Hubert expected Ferdinand to say, an apology was not one of them. “I should be the one begging for forgiveness. Not you. You should be blaming m—“ 

“I never blamed you. How could I? What happened was not your fault.” Ferdinand interrupted. “But if I—“ Ferdinand started to interrupt again, but Hubert put a finger to his lips.

“You have said your piece, now it is my turn.” Ferdinand closed his mouth obediently. “Yes, it was foolish and reckless of you to try to take on the Agarthans by yourself. But it’s my fault that you thought you had to do it alone. I shut you out at every turn until you thought you had no other choice. Byleth wanted to tell you and the rest of the Strike Force and Edelgard was considering it. But I advised against it because… I thought I was protecting you. But really I was just protecting myself. Because the thought of something happening to you terrifies me. I should’ve told you about the Agarthans. Keeping you and the rest of the Strike Force in the dark was a mistake. I thought the less you knew, the safer you would be. But that was just wishful thinking on my end. If you had known not to trust Lord Arundel, this never would have happened. It’s my fault you got hurt.” His eyes trailed over Ferdinand’s body. He looked at all the new scars that adorned his skin. 

“Hubert…” Ferdinand said, waiting for the mage to look him in the eye. When Hubert finally looked up, he continued. “What happened to me was not your fault. Yes, my ignorance made it easier for the Agarthans to abduct me, but they would have come after me whether I knew about them or not. They wanted my blood; there was nothing that you could have said to me that would have changed that. Please Hubert, believe me when I say it wasn’t your fault. If you must blame someone, blame the Agarthans. They were the ones who set out to capture me. They were the ones who had the intention to hurt me.” 

“Still I should have told you.” 

“I understand why you did not want more people to be involved. Had our positions been reversed I would have probably done the same thing.” He let out a humorless chuckle. ”I thought I was being so clever. But I was in way over my head. It angers me when I think about how arrogant and naive I was for so long. I truly believed that I could be of some assistance. But in the end, I was useless.” Hubert opened his mouth to respond, but Ferdinand wouldn’t be Ferdinand if he didn’t plow on ahead. “No, that is an inaccurate statement. I was worse than useless. I was nothing but a burden. I am so very sorry for all the trouble I must have caused you.” Ferdinand clasped Hubert’s hand to his chest. “But I cannot apologize for wishing to help you. And I wanted to help you. I still want to help you. The thought of something awful happening to you while I stayed behind was unbearable. It is like you said, it terrifies me.” He cradled Hubert’s cheek in his hand. “Because… I-I love you, Hubert.” 

For the second time that day, all of Hubert’s thoughts came to a screeching halt. Fortunately this time, Hubert’s brain overloaded with feelings of joy, instead of horror and guilt. Because Ferdinand loved him! Ferdinand loves him and Hubert had never felt so happy in his entire life. And for the first time in a very long time, he lets his feelings in. He doesn’t try to run from them or extinguish them. He welcomes them with open arms. Finally, Hubert lets himself be happy. 

However, while Hubert was busy getting in touch with his emotions, his face remained frozen in surprise. Ferdinand understandably misinterpreted his look of utter shock and the silence that followed. He dropped his hand and immediately began to fill the silence with nervous rambling. 

“I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. It’s just that I… When I was imprisoned, I promised myself that if I ever escaped I’d tell you how I truly feel. I’ve felt this way about you for a long time now. Years, if I’m being honest, but now’s not the time to get into the specifics. I know you don’t feel the same way and that’s okay. W-what I’m trying to say is that your friendship is so important to me. And I’d never want to do or say anything that could possibly jeopardize our friendship. Your friendship is so important to—wait I already said that. I don’t mean to put you on the spot like this. If all of this is making you uncomfortable, just say the word and we can pretend that I said nothing and we’ll go back to how it used to be…” 

Once Hubert’s brain started working again, he took one of Ferdinand’s hands and placed a gentle kiss on his fingers. He hoped it conveyed a sense of calm and reassurance. (And based off how many contractions Ferdinand was using, it was clear that he was panicking a little.) Their conversation about Ferdinand’s captivity was not over. But it could wait. Right now there was something more important that Hubert needed to say. 

“I love you too, Ferdinand.” Ferdinand’s eyes widened and his mouth opened but no words came out. Hubert took this rare opportunity to speak without interruptions. “When you left, even before you were captured, my heart ached for you every day. If I’m being honest as well, my heart has yearned for you much longer than that.” Ferdinand’s eyes grew even wider and his cheeks began to turn red. “Since we were just on the topic of apologies, I confess I owe you another apology that is long overdue.” Now it was Ferdinand’s turn to give a questioning look. Hubert steeled himself. 

“I turned down your offer of courtship all those moons ago because… I was afraid. At the time I thought of so many reasons why I should reject you; but they were only excuses. I didn’t want to give you—give us a chance because…I didn’t think I had space in my heart for anyone else. I told myself that my feelings for you would eventually fade.” He let out an amused breath and looked down at their interlocking hands. “But I’ve never been more wrong in my entire life.” He looked back up at Ferdinand. “I’m sorry that I ran away. I’m sorry that I ran away from your feelings… and from my own.” Hubert said quietly. Ferdinand pulls Hubert into his arms and holds him with such tenderness Hubert feels his eyes fill with tears. 

“I forgive you.” Ferdinand whispers into his ear. 

Hubert feels his tears fall. He holds on to Ferdinand like his life depends on it. And again Hubert found himself feeling happier than he ever thought possible. They stayed in each other’s arms for a while, content just to be in the other’s presence until Ferdinand broke the silence. 

“What about Edelgard?” He asked. “I know you love her very much.” Not an accusation, just a statement of fact. 

“She will always hold a special place in my heart. What I feel for her… is different than what I feel for you. I do love her, as my Emperor and my friend. There is nothing I would change about our friendship.” Hubert’s eyes grow distant as he thinks about everything they had been through together. “She is my closest friend.” His eyes focus back onto Ferdinand. “But…I want to be more than just your friend.” 

Ferdinand’s smile could have lit up the room. The way Ferdinand leaned towards Hubert was not subtle. He paused at the very last second, silently asking for permission. (As if Hubert could deny him anything.) And Hubert answered by closing the space between them, kissing him softly. It was nothing more than a gentle touch of the lips. But to Hubert it was everything. When they parted moments later, their foreheads still touched as Ferdinand affectionately nuzzled his nose against Hubert’s. 

“You have always been more to me than just my friend.” Ferdinand states simply. And all Hubert desired in that moment is to kiss him again. So he does. 

***

The second time Ferdinand yawned directly into Hubert’s mouth as they kissed, followed by an embarrassed Ferdinand apologizing profusely, Hubert suggested it was time for bed. 

“You should rest, Ferdinand.” Before Ferdinand could object, Hubert correct himself. “We should rest.” 

“Okay.” Ferdinand said, a little resigned, but knowing Hubert was right. Hubert began to get off the bed, when Ferdinand grabbed hold of his arm. 

“Can you stay with me?” Ferdinand’s voice sounded so small. “Please…I’m scared. I am scared that this is a dream, and if I go to sleep, you will be gone when I awaken.” Hubert felt his heart clench at Ferdinand’s admission.

“Very well.” Hubert thinks that he should’ve probably said something more romantic or at least more reassuring, but Ferdinand relaxes all the same. Hubert kicks off his shoes before he slips under the covers. It was a tight fit, but neither of them minded. Once Hubert was settled, Ferdinand pulled him in close, and tucked his head under Hubert’s chin. Hubert wrapped his arms around Ferdinand, tangled their legs together, and pulled him in even closer. Hubert pressed a light kiss to the top of his amber colored head.

“I love you, Ferdinand.” 

“I love you too, Hubert.” 

***

When morning came, Mercedes entered the infirmary to check on her patient. At first she was surprised when she saw the chair that Hubert usually occupied was empty. However her confusion was short lived. She looked at Ferdinand and saw him and Hubert snuggled up together sound asleep. She smiled and then quietly tiptoed out of the room. 

Chapter Text

Five years later…

1193

“Hubert!” Ferdinand called out. “We must make haste or we shall be late! And I cannot walk as fast as you!” He dramatically waved his cane in the air as if it could summon Hubert faster. The cane was mostly for show these days. But it was nice to have just in case his leg felt uncooperative, even if those occasions were rare. It also doubled as an inconspicuous weapon with a hidden blade attached to the handle (courtesy of Hubert). 

“So impatient.” Hubert said, his tone full of false exasperation as he stepped out the door and into the hallway. 

“Nonsense. I am not impatient. Just excited.” Ferdinand corrected. “It is not every day one gets to witness history in the making.”  Then he held out his hand which Hubert gladly accepted and entwined their fingers. 

“I suppose that is true.” Hubert agreed. They walked the rest of the way through the palace halls in silence, enjoying a few peaceful minutes together. 

***

“The Prime Minister of Adrestia and the Minister of the Imperial Household!” Gatekeeper announced their presence when they entered the throne room. They were forced to part the moment they entered. Ferdinand was predictably swarmed by multiple people, all vying for the Prime Minister’s attention. Whereas Hubert busied himself with his usual surveillance procedures. When he was satisfied that the area was secure, he made his way to the emperor. 

“Your Majesty.” Hubert bowed in greeting. 

“Minister.” After Edelgard acknowledged him, he took his usual place at her side. “Everything seems to be enjoying themselves.” Edelgard smiled at him. “Excellent work as always, Hubert.” 

“Just doing my duty.” 

“Hubert, we’ve discussed this. Just accept the compliment.” Hubert was saved from replying when they were approached by Gatekeeper. 

“Your Majesty. Minister Vestra. Please excuse my interruption, but I have something to report! I have just been informed that the guest of honor is running late but is on the way.” 

“I hope nothing is amiss.” Edelgard said, after Gatekeeper left. 

“I will be sure to look into it.” Hubert reassured her. “But I would not be surprised if this is only a ploy to make a more dramatic entrance—” The sound of a high pitched cackle came from the other side of the room. “And speaking of dramatic…” They both looked in that same direction and saw Constance who seemed to be speaking extra loudly to Lorenz who was listening with rapt attention. 

“It seems that Constance is enjoying her new peerage.” Edelgard remarked good naturedly. 

“While I personally have never really cared for Miss Nuevelle’s company, even I must admit that she is deserving of her new title.” Hubert admitted. 

“That is quite high praise coming from you.” 

“I give credit where credit is due. It is thanks to her hard work and magical research that Hapi can breathe a sigh of relief, and both you and Lysithea are a Crest short.” Hubert’s eyes moved to Edelgard’s hair, which was light brown at the roots. 

“Where is Lysithea now?” Edelgard asked. “I haven’t had many opportunities to speak to her since her surgery.”  

“She is resting now, but Linhardt has told me she plans to make an appearance in a short while. Linhardt has graciously volunteered to accompany her so that she doesn’t overexert herself.” Hubert and Edelgard shared a knowing look. While they knew that Linhardt took his duties as a healer seriously, they also knew their sleepy friend occasionally used his patients as an excuse to leave events early. But Linhardt had played a crucial role in the Crest removal process with his knowledge as a healer and a Crest scholar, so Hubert decided to let him off the hook for now. The two friends continued chatting quietly until they were joined by someone else. 

“Not discussing anything sinister, I hope?” Byleth said as they walked up to the throne. “Even after all these years, whenever I see you two whispering together, I can’t help but think you are plotting something.” Hubert rolled his eyes while Edelgard smiled at Byleth. 

“You know full well that there are no secrets between us.” Edelgard said affectionately. Byleth pressed a kiss to her cheek, causing the emperor to blush. Seeing the love between his best friend and his former professor, had Hubert looking around the room, searching for amber in a sea of bright colors. He spied him on the other side of the room.  As if sensing he was being watched, Ferdinand looked in Hubert’s direction. He instantly brightened when their eyes met. He threw a wink in Hubert’s direction before politely returning his attention to the conversation beside him. 

***

“Make way for the King of Almyra!” Gatekeeper announced. A familiar face with an unmistakable swagger entered the room. He walked through the room until he stood in front of the throne. He bowed before addressing Edelgard with a dazzling smile. 

“Your Majesty.” 

Edelgard stood from her throne as she in turn greeted the Almyran king. 

“King Khalid.”

“I did promise to return your kindness for sparing me back in Derdrui,” said Claude. “And I’m here to repay the debt that I owe you.” 

“Then let us begin,” responded Edelgard. 

“Straight to business as usual, I see. Don’t I at least get a welcome hug?” Claude opened his arms to embrace his former classmate who responded by gesturing towards the peace treaty that was waiting to be signed and sealed. 

“There will be time for such pleasantries afterwards. Now is the time to make our alliance official.” Edelgard stated before walking right past him. A unfazed Claude just shrugged and followed after her. Both rulers then went about signing the document between their countries. Fódlan and Almyra were allies at last! 

“As leader of the land of Almyra… I, Khalid von Riegan, hereby swear this pact.” Claude clasped Edelgard’s outstretched hand with his own. ”Almyra pledges to work in harmony with Fódlan, and do everything in its power to secure a peaceful future for our countries.” 

Now it was Edelgard’s turn to speak. “By the covenant between the red blood and the white sword that crowns the double-headed eagle… I, Edelgard von Hresvelg, hereby swear this pact. Fódlan pledges to work hand in hand with Almyra to deliver peace to our lands and secure a future for all its people.” 

“The pact is sealed!” Claude announced. 

”Now it is our job to uphold it.” Edelgard finished. 

“And now we feast!” Claude said much more enthusiastically. The throne room was immediately filled with thunderous applause and triumphant cheers.

***

“Have you seen Ferdinand?” Hubert asked for what felt like the hundredth time. But no one knew where the Prime Minister was. As Hubert walked through the crowded room, searching for Ferdinand, he also took some time to observe all the members of the Black Eagle Strike Force. His allies. His friends. His family. 

Hubert walked past the buffet table that was being cleaned out by Raphael and Ingrid. (The meat didn’t stand a chance.) Then he passed the dessert table where Lysithea and Jertiza had made themselves quite comfortable. They were working together to inhale an entire cake, while Linhardt watched them to make sure they didn’t choke. Hubert pretended not to see Leonie and Balthus causing a small ruckus with another drinking contest. Normally Hubert would intervene himself but Yuri, Caspar, and Mercedes seemed to have it mostly under control, while Hapi just watched them and sighed at their shenanigans, refusing to lift a finger. Hubert even took a few moments to watch Ignatz as he worked on a live painting to commemorate the celebration. 

The others had partnered up and were on the dance floor. Edelgard and Byleth. Dorothea and Petra. Ashe and Annette. Hilda and Marianne. Sylvain and Felix (who wasn’t scowling for once). They all danced to a beautiful song sung by Manuela, who were also joined by Bernadetta who agreed to play her instrument as long as she could play from behind a curtain where no one could see her. Hubert circled the dance floor twice before concluding that Ferdinand wasn’t there and moved on. 

***

Hubert finally found him on a secluded balcony that overlooked Enbarr. Ferdinand was alone leaning forward on the bannister, gazing out at the city. A gentle breeze flew past Ferdinand, who turned his head towards the cooling air. His hair danced gracefully in the wind. The setting sun was hitting his profile at just the right angle so that he glowed. He looked so peaceful. Not wanting to disrupt such a radiant view, Hubert watched him silently by the door. When Ferdinand opened his eyes, he spotted Hubert immediately. The loving look that he gave Hubert had his heart swell. 

“Care to join me?” Ferdinand asked when he noticed Hubert looming at the door. 

In lieu of an answer, Hubert walked up behind Ferdinand and wrapped his hands around his waist and rested his head on Ferdinand’s shoulder, fitting their bodies together like puzzle pieces. Hubert held him close as he breathed Ferdinand in, while Ferdinand let out a sigh of contentment and leaned back into Hubert’s chest. They stood together in silence, admiring the setting sun. 

“Something on your mind?” Hubert eventually asked. 

“Just…reminiscing.” 

“About anything in particular?” 

“Just…how much has changed. How much we have changed. How far we have come.” Ferdinand said wistfully. 

“I agree. There were many who did not believe an alliance between Fódlan and Almyra was possible.” Hubert said with a hint of pride in Ferdinand who worked so hard to make it possible. 

“Yes, that is true. But…” Ferdinand let out an amused hum. “…I was not referring to our relations with Almyra.” He turned around in Hubert’s arms so they were now face to face. “Can you not guess? You are a master of interrogation.” Ferdinand said playfully. He looked deep into Hubert’s eyes. Hubert felt his chest grow warm. 

“In that case give me a few minutes to collect the tools I will need to do a thorough interrogation. Shall I lead you to the dungeon?” 

Ferdinand affectionately swatted Hubert’s arm. “Now you are just messing with me!” 

Hubert smirked. “But would you have me any other way?” 

“I suppose not.” Ferdinand chirped. “And you would not wish me to be any different either, correct?” 

“Well if I’m being honest…” Hubert smirked again as he watched Ferdinand make a pouting face. 

“Terrible man.” Ferdinand grumbled. 

“I tried to warn you.” 

“You tried.” Ferdinand said stubbornly as he took one of Hubert’s hand in his. “But I am afraid all your efforts were in vain.” Ferdinand’s voice dropped to a whisper. “Because I still love you.” 

“Not the wisest decision, if you ask me.” Hubert teased. 

“Nonsense!” Ferdinand said with conviction. “Easiest decision of my life.” 

“I’m glad to hear that.” Hubert said with a smile that was for Ferdinand’s eyes only. “Because I love you Ferdinand von Aegir.” 

Ferdinand was practically glowing. “And I love you…” Then he brought Hubert’s left hand to his lips where he kissed the hidden ring under his glove. 

“…Hubert von Aegir.”