(It wasn't unusual for Claude to stay after class and pick at their professor's mind after everyone else has finished for the afternoon. They discuss the latest lesson. Claude presents a different hypothetical, an alternative solution to the problem at hand and she counters with some variable he hadn't considered before. He helps her gather up her things, he invites her to have dinner with the class, she declines, he feigns disappointment and makes a joke about how the meal for the evening was some Faerghus dish so she wasn't missing out on much anyway.... and it seems like the perfect segue for her to mention that a new student would join their next class.
Felix Fraldarius. Of course, he recognizes the name but he can't say he knows much beyond that.
(Of course, he knows enough. The surviving son of Rodrigue Frauldarius, the "Shield of Faerghus." He always would have thought he'd be close to the young prince like his father had been for his but that didn't seem to be the case. Well, it wasn't his business. That entire house wears grief almost as well as they wear their armor and he has better things to do than pick on a bunch of tragic classmates.)
He promises to check in on their newest member. He's sure he won't have to do much before Sylvain, who'd been recruited earlier, eases him into their routine. He'll leave Felix alone for the evening. Surely he'll have some explaining to do with his peers but the following day, during their free day, he'll stop by the training grounds to catch Felix. )
[Felix still isn't completely sure about this. He doesn't like change. Doesn't like upheaval. He's more comfortable with the familiar, even if the familiar makes him miserable.
But Sylvain ruined all of that when he transferred classes. Felix was furious and told him so in no uncertain terms. Sylvain said he didn't see what the big deal was, although Felix had a feeling that was at least partially a lie. Come on, Felix, would it hurt you to branch out a little? Make some new friends?
Felix doesn't want new friends. He barely wants the old ones, frankly.
What's even holding you back? You can't stand to be in the same room with His Highness anyway. Why stay?
In the end, Felix relented, because with Sylvain he always does, eventually. It wasn't just for his friend's sake, though. The other Lions and even Professor Hanneman had noticed that ever since Sylvain joined the Golden Deer, Felix's surly, disruptive behavior in class had gotten steadily worse. He'd walked out on more lectures in the span of a few weeks than he had in all the moons prior combined. Plus, he'd seen the new professor training a few times and was itching to clash swords with her.
So the next time she extended her invitation, Felix took it. He still has mixed feelings about leaving the boar to his own devices, but it's not like the Blue Lions classroom is far. Besides, Ingrid pitched a fit about him following in Sylvain's irresponsible footsteps 'as usual' and abandoning something or other, and it just made him want to leave more.
Spending his free day training alone is exactly what he needs right now. So of course, Claude von Riegan chooses today to interrupt him, probably looking to get chummy or something. Felix doesn't bother pausing his sword forms.]
I wouldn’t be a very good leader if I didn’t welcome our newest member.
( He watches Felix practice his form and continues. He can read the air well enough. It’s obvious Felix would rather not be dealing with him right now. How did Dimitri deal with this? If this had been a few weeks ago, he’d said he couldn’t imagine the mild mannered Faerghus prince doing much at all. He likes Dimitri. He truly does. But he always seemed to lack the heart to deal with conflict; always seemed content to let things be.
That has never been Claude’s style though. He’s never been the type to just leave people alone. )
... We can talk now or later, if you want. Either way, it wont be the last.
( His posture is as relaxed as ever and he folds his hands neatly behind his back. It’s clear in his body language; he’s always stood out and he has never cared about status but he knows his place as this house’s leader. He doesn’t expect Felix to just listen to him but he has things to say and unlike Dimitri who might let Felix go about as usual or Edelgard who would demand a response, Claude has plenty of time to wait for his newest classmate. As one of the least popular and most controversial students in the school, it will take much more than a little rudeness from Felix to scare him off. )
[Felix doesn't reply at all at first, choosing to finish out his current sequence by delivering a final, powerful thrust to the training dummy with a clipped shout before he pauses to bring his sword down and brush a few stray strands of hair out of his face.]
Fine, talk. But I didn't join your house so we could be friends, and I'm not looking for any. So keep it to class business and we'll get along fine.
Then I'd say you're in for a pretty hard time with the Golden Deer.
(They're a friendly bunch, knowing for getting along well with others. It's a house where even nobles and commoners can get along. But he won't press the matter anymore. Instead, he reaches for some papers that he's brought with him and begins to hand them out to Felix,)
This is our schedule. When our classes are, when we train together, and all that. You can see who's already signed up for what and choose which ones you want to do. (Pretty standard! Leonie seems to have signed up for almost every physical class with the professor, Lysithea is dedicated herself to her magic lessons, and Hilda is unsurprisingly sparse, though, she does seem to have a whole week dedicated to dance practice later in the month. As for Claude, it looks like he's dabbling in different lessons: Archery, swordsmanship, horseback riding, and... flying? In general, everything seems to be a little less organized with the Golden Deer. Training isn't always on the same day, it looks like things get moved around except for a few constants:) We usually eat dinner together on these days. You should come. I think everyone would like it if they could meet you before class.
(He points to the middle and end of the weeks which are marked in colored ink.)
Lucky for you, Teach has already chosen a dancer for the White Heron Cup but that means we have a few days off here while she helps Hilda.
Hmph. Maybe it's the Golden Deer who should be spending more time on training and less on frivolous socializing.
[Felix takes the papers, though, and looks them over as Claude explains. Getting a chance to train more often with Leonie is a plus, at least. He gives Claude a flat look at this talk of dinner.]
Swords, brawling, and archery are all the classes I need. I can eat on my own.
[Hilda, huh? Good, that means Felix doesn't have to concern himself with it. He feels a slight pang at the thought that Annette will be competing for an opposing class now, but shakes it off quickly. What does it matter?]
You say that but communication is just as important as any physical training.
(Oh, boy, how is he going to get this through to Felix? He can tell force isn't the best way already (not that it's really his style).)
Per regional tradition, most of us are archers. You aren't going to catch us on the frontlines or in the thick of a battle but that doesn't stop us from having each other's backs. It's important that we understand each other so we can help each other and not get in the way.
(And socializing? Helps. Those dinner dates? Perfect for bonding.)
... You should get to know everyone, Felix. We're an alliance here and an alliance is nothing worthless if we don't work together.
(He points to the first dinner they're supposed to have together on the calender.)
Give it a try, at least. And if you end up not liking it? No one can say you didn't try. We can figure out something else for both of us after that.
Hmph. 'To defeat your enemies, you must have dependable allies,' is it? You sound like my old man.
[Felix shakes his head.]
I fight alone. I don't need to 'understand' my classmates. Especially when they're all far behind me on the battlefield. In the thick of a battle is where I belong.
[He glances back down at the calendar again, at Claude's insistence.]
This isn't politics, Riegan. It's a classroom, nothing more. It's not like I'm joining the Alliance.
[He sighs, irritated.]
But fine. If it will end your squawking, I'll join you for dinner. Once.
(One doesn't become the shield of the kingdom for nothing. Which, again, makes him wonder more about Felix in a way. As his son, he'd be expected to carry on that title and yet...
He laughs lightly, finding something amusing in what Felix has said. One doesn't gather all of Fodlan's elite in one place and expect it to just be an ordinary school.)
Right, right. (He holds up his hands as if to show he means no harm and to placate him,) I wouldn't expect you to pick up and move. It isn't easy leaving home.
(But he's content for now. He's convinced Felix to have dinner with them this time. He thinks that will please some of the others,)
Good. I'll see you there.
(He stretches and folds his hands behind his neck. It looks like he's finished here. Yes, he's done the leader thing. He's checked in on his newest classmate, given him all of the information and invitations for now...)
[Felix scoffs with disgust, hearing praise for Rodrigue, but apparently he has nothing else to say about the man for now. He does give Claude a vaguely curious look at that bit about leaving home, though. Maybe he should have paid a little more attention to the circumstances surrounding the heir to the leading Alliance house. All he remembers is that House Riegan was on the brink of collapse, and then it suddenly wasn't. Hm.
...whatever. He doesn't have to care about any of that for years yet. Rodrigue's hardly about to kick the bucket anytime soon. And Felix obviously has no reason to care about what home Claude might have left.
Finally, Claude looks like he's going to leave - but of course, he has to get one last question in.]
Yes. Does my new house leader have a problem with that?
(Well, Felix wouldn't be the first person with parent problems in Garreg Mach. It seems like most of Fodlan's aristocracy has family troubles.
He cants his head just slightly to the side and smiles that same, practiced smile of his; friendly, warm, carefree... and not quite right if you're really paying attention.)
None at all. In fact, I'm happy to have such a hardworking new member among us.
[Felix isn't paying particularly close attention to Claude's expression; in fact, he doesn't like to make eye contact much at all. He does glance over, though, with a bit of suspicion. Was that sarcastic? Is Claude mocking him? ...hard to tell. Felix doesn't like how difficult this guy is to read.
Following Claude's glance, he lifts his sword a little by way of response.]
Swords, primarily. But archery and brawling can be useful, as well. An effective warrior makes use of as many of the options at their disposal as they can.
(Crossing his arms in front of him, raising a hand to tap at his chin thoughtfully,)
There aren't many studying swords here.
(Ignatz and Marianne, interestingly enough but just imagining either of them against Felix in the training hall... He can't imagine Felix not scaring them off to other lessons. Even their other Blue Lions recruit, Sylvain, is more likely to train with the lance or axe while Leonie prefers the lance and bow.)
It's mostly Teach and myself...
(Frowning and he wonders if Felix can follow where his thoughts are going. While it's entirely possible to practice with their dear professor, it's more likely now that another student has come along, she'll put them against each other during lessons.
He looks at Felix, regarding him up and down for a moment and then--)Oof.
[Felix watches Claude with annoyance, following nothing at all. What is he prattling on about? Why is he looking at him like that?]
There aren't many studying the sword among the Lions either, what's your point?
[Felix decides he hates the way Claude is studying him. He feels weirdly exposed, and whatever this nonsense is, it's confusing him. When he replies, his tone is flat.]
(Felix... Sweet, Felix who is direct and doesn't have time for schemes and plans. He'll just have to spell it out for him, won't he?)
I wouldn't be surprised if Teach paired us together for the next few lessons. (Easier than tossing Ignatz or Marianne into the fray and undoing months of building up their confidence,) I have an exam to train for, you know?
(Every young Lord is expected to master Fodlan's swordstyle. He's on the same path as Dimitri and Edelgard in that respect,)
[Felix watches Claude warily, and the punch line has him narrowing his eyes. Great. Just what he needs, getting partnered up with the mysterious house leader who wants to be friends for some reason.
But after a moment, his expression slips into a smirk.]
In that case, I'd suggest putting in some extra training time yourself. You'll need it.
(Just...... makes a face.... He's a slacker, a lazy, good for nothing noble that draws the ire of those more dutiful than him.)
Right.
(He sounds uncertain but there is a part of him that migtht be looking forward to the new challenge... that is until he remembers he isn't a melee fighter and can really only take so many hits before he has to call for mercy.)
I'll see if I can squeeze it in.
(He says like he didn't just give Felix a calendar showing how available he really is.)
[Oh, Felix knows this song and dance well. It's the same one he gets from Sylvain all the time. He arches a brow and glances at the papers in the house leader's hand.]
Your schedule looks pretty open to me.
[He lifts his sword and points it at Claude's chest.]
In fact, you don't look very busy at all right now. Spar with me.
Fine. Take your break, then. But if we're going to be partnered, I expect your swordsmanship to be worth my time. It's pointless for me to train with you if you can't even come close to keeping up.
(Sooooo definitely keeping him away from Marianne and Ignatz. Yes.)
You know, I'm not the only one studying here. And it's true, we might not have much to offer right now... but consider all we could learn while we work together.
(No doubt, Felix will knock him on his bottom in their matches and though it pains him to think about it, he knows he'll come out stronger and better for it.
(Just like back home, he thinks. Hah, training with Felix might make him nostalgic...))
[He turns his back on Claude to return to his training, although he half-expects to be interrupted again. This man talks too much and says too little.]
(He turns his back and resumes his training. There are more things Claude could say right now. He could invite Felix to join him for archery practice another day or talk to him about their professor. But he knows better than to push his luck any more than he already has. )
We will.
(Claude is certain of it.)
Welcome to the Golden Deer, Felix.
(And he excuses himself, slipping away to do whatever it is Claude von Riegan does on his day off.)
(It's been at least a few days since Felix joined the Golden Deer. Byleth starts off by training with him, getting an understanding of his level and making notes, giving advice, teaching like she's supposed to.
When Felix comes to the training grounds this morning, he'll find Byleth overseeing Claude and Ignatz. The lesson is basic, nothing special, and for Felix, probably incredibly boring to watch. Ignatz fumbles his way through the lesson, doubtful and uncertain while Claude fares much more confidently. Claude leads Ignatz through the moves, creating all of the right openings, creating openings that Byleth calls out at Ignatz to strike at. After awhile, he manages to catch his sword on Claude's in just the right way and disarm him like he's supposed to. They repeat it a few more times until Byleth ends their practice. Teacher and leader praise Ignatz, encouraging him to practice more and promising to see him later. When Ignatz turns to leave, he seems genuinely surprised to see Felix there and manages a nervous "good morning" before taking his leave.
To Felix, it should have been obvious who the more skilled swordsman was during practice. Unfortunately, it doesn't reveal much of Claude's skill at all.
Claude goes to take a drink of water and Byleth acknowledges Felix, greeting him in that usual, neutral manner of hers, and explaining that today she thought it would be good if, instead of her, he practiced with--
"Claude."
He comes over when called, swinging his wooden practice sword in his hand, a display of show instead of skill, )
Are you sure about that, Teach? You know I wouldn't mind taking it easy a bit...
(She's certain and he only shrugs in response, as casual as ever, )
Alright. (He looks at Felix, smiling, clearly having fun,) Go easy on me, okay?
[Being that Felix spends his first few days in his new house mostly training exclusively with Byleth, those few days are pretty pleasant. More than pleasant - her skill is incredibly impressive, and he can already tell he's going to learn a ton from her.
So by contrast, watching the glasses-wearing archer (what was his name again? something with an I...) stumble through a simple disarming exercise almost makes him turn around and leave. Fortunately, Byleth is also here, and it's for her alone that he stays until they're finished, doing his pre-training stretches in the meantime and mostly ignoring that disaster of a lesson. He spares Ignatz a glance and a slight nod at his greeting before he approaches the other two. Of course, Riegan was right and she's going to make them spar together. Great.]
No.
[He retrieves a practice sword of his own and takes a few warmup swipes at the air before squaring off with Claude, distinctly not smiling.]
(He responds with a knowing sort of smile, like he knew this was going to happen. Hadn't he told Felix it was only a matter of time before they were paired up? And of course, Felix would never go easy on him.
Claude offers a quick glance over to Byleth, full of confidence and then shifts into a ready position. He's hardly as serious as Felix is but there's a determination in his eye. He isn't going to let Byleth down, especially when she's watching.)
Well? (He isn't going to make the first move.) Hurry up, then.
[So Claude's going to be like that, huh? Fine with Felix. He prefers not to hang back too much anyway; he's not surprised that the archer would.
His advance is swift and steady, but measured; this is no headfirst charge. Claude will find him a relentless, highly focused, and vicious fighter, not at all averse to stepping outside the standard forms to land a hit or break a standoff. He dodges and parries in equal measure, but his dodging never takes him too far from where he was if he can help it. He can switch hands relatively effectively, which helps him be unpredictable, and perhaps most importantly, he's fast. Which is good, because Claude is, too.
Felix can't tell which of them has the advantage in raw strength - at least, until his Crest activates to put much more weight behind a blow. And it's a Major Crest, so it activates often. But Felix doesn't count on his Crest in his technique; it's just gravy.]
(For all of his lightheartedness about practice, he's more skilled than he lets on. He catches Felix's sword with his own and parries, striking back now that Felix is close. While he certainly doesn't match Felix's strength (especially when his Crest activates), he makes up for it in skill. He's the type that takes advantage of every opportunity he can get.
He tries to keep a distance when possible and if they're ever close enough to strike, he attacks where he can. Interesting, he thinks, when Felix switches hands. He'd been hoping to put him at a disadvantage by disarming his better side but it looks like it'll take more than that. Even more interesting, perhaps, is that Felix isn't the only one that can use both hands.
While Claude has been favoring a one-handed technique, one that matches the traditional style of the ruling class that usually uses a single-handed rapier, he suddenly switches to his other hand. His hits are stronger this time and Felix is smart enough that he'll be able to realize that Claude had been using his less dominant side for their first half of the fight. Just one of his many tricks to lure his opponent into a false sense of security against him.
He's able to hold back some of Felix's attacks like this but in terms of strength, he'll never be able to match him. His greatest advantage is his speed and Felix has him matched there. Byleth calls out to Claude, reminding him to raise his arms or to not give up too much ground. He's the one getting the advice. He's the one that needs it the most in this match and he tries to rise to it each time. He tries and he does.
When Felix comes down at him with a heavy strike, catching his blade on Claude's and pinning him in place, it looks like he might have to yield...
... Claude kicks out his leg, aiming his foot right for Felix's shin. He might be a noble but he's not above fighting dirty to win. If he can trip Felix, he'll immediately move to strike him with his sword in turn.)
[Felix was prepared to be bored by this match, but it becomes apparent quickly that Claude actually does know what he's doing. Interesting... Felix doesn't think much of his hit-and-run tactics--in a real battle, drawing a close-quarters fight out like that just gives you more opportunities to die, a lesson most archers never learn because they don't have to--but he's quick, he fights intelligently, and he's not afraid to do whatever it takes to win.
Maybe there's something worthwhile in pairing up with Claude after all.
Still, Felix has the advantage in both strength and stamina, and he wields his sword like it's an extension of his arm. He's not prone to lowering his guard just because he thinks he's close to victory, but he does expect this to be the end of the match. It takes him by surprise when a sharp pain shoots up his leg and drives him stumbling to one knee with a clipped, wordless shout; instinctively, he lifts his sword to parry whatever might be following that kick.
He looks up at Claude between their crossed blades and gives him a smirk.]
So you do have some fight in you after all, Riegan.
[This is a bad position to be in, though, so Felix simultaneously shoves upward with his sword and swings a leg out in an attempt to sweep Claude's feet out from under him in return.]
(He sounds amused, pushing back against his blade. He knows better than to try to overpower him. The best he can do is try to pin him down and limit his movements, making it easier to predict his next.
Felix is a brawler. He could make a swing for him while he's close but even with his strength, Claude's two handed grip would put him at an advantage. He would be most likely to use his dominant hand...
Not many opportunities to strike back with his sword. Felix could knock him back. He's strong enough. But that would just drag things out even more. Dangerous to risk when there's that chance his own Crest of Riegan might kick in, providing that boost in stamina he needs to keep going. Would Felix consider that? He wonders...
If he was in Felix's position, he knows what he would do. He would do the exact same thing he did a moment before. Aim for the legs, trip up his opponent, throw him off his balance--
Felix's leg moves and Claude leaps. Of course, this means he gives up his footing, and it's enough for Felix to push him back mid-air with the counter force he's already been applying to keep him off. Maybe against the amateur mercenary or the average brigand, it would be enough to avoid his next move but Felix is skilled. He's fast. He's a practiced. Now is the best time to really catch Claude, before he can land and catch his bearings again.)
[The instant Felix feels the pressure against his blade give way, he's shifting his weight onto the leg he tried to sweep with and pushing forward. This practice sword doesn't have enough heft to it to do what Felix needs to do before Claude regains his footing, so he turns his lunge into a tackle, throwing his entire weight behind it to bear Claude down to the floor. As soon as they land, Felix whips his sword around to hold the blade to Claude's throat, as though it were steel.
It's Felix looking down this time, and his smirk turns self-satisfied.]
(He's only just touched the ground when Felix comes barreling towards him. Of course, he isn't enough to stop him and he finds himself tumbling, landing on his back. He manages to catch himself with one hand behind him and starts to get back on his feet, pushing himself up with sword in hand to keep going but
He freezes, practice sword at his throat.
His eyes flash, like he would absolutely keep fighting if he could he can recognize when he's caught.)
... I yield. (He settles back on the ground, holding up one hand to sign defeat,) You win, Felix.
(And like that, the fight is gone from his eyes and he lets out a loud, dramatic sigh,)
Ye-ouch! Did you have to hit me that hard?!
(He's rubbing his back. Did he land on a stone or something? And his arms feel like jelly after taking so many blows.)
[Felix rarely makes eye contact with anyone when he's talking to them, but here in the training grounds with a sword in hand, he doesn't hesitate to meet Claude's gaze. He sees the flash there, the unwillingness to lose - very familiar, and very much not what he expected from Claude.
...and then he's complaining, back to his usual ridiculous self, but Felix isn't quite as fooled anymore. There's more to Claude than meets the eye, he's sure of it.
He pulls his sword back and gets to his feet, instinct telling him not to turn his back on Claude despite the spar having ended. Never turn your back on an opponent. Especially not one as clever as this one. Instead, he just steps back and gives Claude an unimpressed look.]
Stop whining. I told you I wasn't going to go easy on you.
That doesn't mean you had to go all out in our first match.
(He helps himself up. He's never been one to really ask for help or rely on others. He can stand on his own. He doubts Felix would trust him if he asked, anyway.)
A Major Crest is no joke...
(So that's what it's like to have one used against you? He has to think of a way to counter that.
Byleth comes over to check on them to which Claude replies that he's fine. He's just all jelly after their match. She makes some critique on their footwork and form, following up with that she'd like them to practice together again and make it a regular thing if they'll allow it. The two of them could benefit from studying each other's styles.
Claude grimaces, rubbing his arm in response.)
Yeah, sure.
(He can't really say no to his dear professor, afterall. It's up to Felix to decide if he wants to do the same.)
What? That's exactly what it means. I always go all out. Neither of us learns anything otherwise. You'd better not have been holding back.
[He shrugs at this talk of his Crest. It does nothing if he isn't skilled enough to put it to good use. It's a secondary concern for him, although he does acknowledge that his foes have to contend with it. That's just another reason for Claude to train harder.
Felix listens carefully to Byleth's critiques, and perhaps surprisingly, doesn't protest or even look disgruntled when she assigns them to regular training together. He just nods.]
Agreed.
[He turns to Claude, then.]
You like to pretend you're a beginner, but you're not. And you like to complain about training, but I saw it in your eyes. You wanted to keep going. To win.
(He had to use his dominant hand, pull out some tricks... there really wasn't much chance to slack off and hide his ability. If he hadn't spent so much energy just trying to not get hit, he probably would have opted for a more direct and aggressive strategy against Felix instead. Actually, he should have done that from the beginning. He should have known better but he's been able to get by for so long with mostly speed and just enough skill, he'd fallen back on the usual strategy,)
... I guess I miscalculated.
(No further explanation there. Ah, but now Felix is coming at him verbally and while he isn't wrong, Claude isn't going to admit to any of that. At least buy a guy a drink first.)
More like I didn't want to get hit again. You almost got me in the face! (He brings a hand to his cheek, rubbing it as if just thinking about what could have been hurts him,) What would I have done then? It's my second best asset, right after my mind, you know!
Hmph. Maybe you should calculate less and train more, then.
[Felix doesn't know what he means by 'miscalculated,' but he doesn't particularly care, either. He's more interested in coaxing that other Claude back out again. Next time won't be experimental, on Felix's part - next time, he'll know what to expect, and put Claude down faster.
(Felix doesn't know yet that Claude is much too unpredictable for that kind of certainty.)
He gives Claude a flat look and then turns to put his practice sword away.]
Playing stupid doesn't suit you any more than it suits Sylvain. You have a hunger to fight, there's no point in denying it. I'll find out what it is.
(Always thinking ahead, thinking about his advantages and disadvantages, the different ways a situation can go, and picking the path that works best. They say the quickest path is a straight line but he knows sometimes it's better to take the winding one; the path that can be changed depending on the journey.
But that's not how Felix is. He prefers to walk a straight and direct path which is something Claude can respect. It's not a bad thing, he thinks, it's helped Felix read him fairly well, after all.)
Not at all. (Well, not quite. He wouldn't really describe his willingness to fight as hungry,) Why, I'm as gentle as a deer.
(Heh.)
Speaking of deer, you should read up on the Golden Deer sometime. You might learn something. If you don't like reading, I'm sure someone would be happy to explain.
(Like how despite being gentle creatures, the Golden Deer have protected Leicester since time immemorial, and one should always be careful because deer are fast, strong, and their antlers are sharp.
... But he wonders if Felix will even bother with that. Well, it's his loss.)
That's fine in practice. But in the middle of battle, you won't always have time to calculate everything. You need the ingrained muscle memory, too, or you'll be caught off-guard.
[Felix arches a brow at all this pointless dissembling, and then blinks.]
If you're telling me to learn more about our classmates, I assume the Professor will tell me anything I need to know about them. But if 'someone' would be happy to explain, then be that someone. If there's something you want me to know, just tell me. I'm not doing research for your amusement.
("This may sound impetuous. Perhaps irresponsible. Almost certainly impossible. But we're gonna do it anyway. In exactly five years' time, let's promise to meet again, right here at the monastery."
It's a week of promises at Garreg Mach and all leading up to the pinnacle moment! The ball! It's all anyone can really talk about leading up to the night. It didn't take much to convince Byleth to let them out of class early to prepare.... not that he needed to prepare but Hilda and Lorenz certainly seemed to appreciate the extra time. It's very much like the deer to focus on having fun than on serious things like training and classes right now though so Felix's practices have probably been sorely lacking or at least, mostly alone.
On the night of the ball, Claude happily dances with the professor and even shares a few turns with Hilda and Flayn (despite Seteth's glares). He doesn't stick around for long though. He's an outsider and there's nothing like a party to really drive home that fact. It was fun dancing with his friends! But it didn't take a sharp eye to see he was far from popular. And to be honest? It suited him fine.
When the ball is really getting underway, he slips out into the night when no one is looking...
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Felix Fraldarius. Of course, he recognizes the name but he can't say he knows much beyond that.
(Of course, he knows enough. The surviving son of Rodrigue Frauldarius, the "Shield of Faerghus." He always would have thought he'd be close to the young prince like his father had been for his but that didn't seem to be the case. Well, it wasn't his business. That entire house wears grief almost as well as they wear their armor and he has better things to do than pick on a bunch of tragic classmates.)
He promises to check in on their newest member. He's sure he won't have to do much before Sylvain, who'd been recruited earlier, eases him into their routine. He'll leave Felix alone for the evening. Surely he'll have some explaining to do with his peers but the following day, during their free day, he'll stop by the training grounds to catch Felix. )
I thought I'd find you here.
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But Sylvain ruined all of that when he transferred classes. Felix was furious and told him so in no uncertain terms. Sylvain said he didn't see what the big deal was, although Felix had a feeling that was at least partially a lie. Come on, Felix, would it hurt you to branch out a little? Make some new friends?
Felix doesn't want new friends. He barely wants the old ones, frankly.
What's even holding you back? You can't stand to be in the same room with His Highness anyway. Why stay?
In the end, Felix relented, because with Sylvain he always does, eventually. It wasn't just for his friend's sake, though. The other Lions and even Professor Hanneman had noticed that ever since Sylvain joined the Golden Deer, Felix's surly, disruptive behavior in class had gotten steadily worse. He'd walked out on more lectures in the span of a few weeks than he had in all the moons prior combined. Plus, he'd seen the new professor training a few times and was itching to clash swords with her.
So the next time she extended her invitation, Felix took it. He still has mixed feelings about leaving the boar to his own devices, but it's not like the Blue Lions classroom is far. Besides, Ingrid pitched a fit about him following in Sylvain's irresponsible footsteps 'as usual' and abandoning something or other, and it just made him want to leave more.
Spending his free day training alone is exactly what he needs right now. So of course, Claude von Riegan chooses today to interrupt him, probably looking to get chummy or something. Felix doesn't bother pausing his sword forms.]
What do you want? I'm busy.
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( He watches Felix practice his form and continues. He can read the air well enough. It’s obvious Felix would rather not be dealing with him right now. How did Dimitri deal with this? If this had been a few weeks ago, he’d said he couldn’t imagine the mild mannered Faerghus prince doing much at all. He likes Dimitri. He truly does. But he always seemed to lack the heart to deal with conflict; always seemed content to let things be.
That has never been Claude’s style though. He’s never been the type to just leave people alone. )
... We can talk now or later, if you want. Either way, it wont be the last.
( His posture is as relaxed as ever and he folds his hands neatly behind his back. It’s clear in his body language; he’s always stood out and he has never cared about status but he knows his place as this house’s leader. He doesn’t expect Felix to just listen to him but he has things to say and unlike Dimitri who might let Felix go about as usual or Edelgard who would demand a response, Claude has plenty of time to wait for his newest classmate. As one of the least popular and most controversial students in the school, it will take much more than a little rudeness from Felix to scare him off. )
It’s your choice.
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Fine, talk. But I didn't join your house so we could be friends, and I'm not looking for any. So keep it to class business and we'll get along fine.
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Then I'd say you're in for a pretty hard time with the Golden Deer.
(They're a friendly bunch, knowing for getting along well with others. It's a house where even nobles and commoners can get along. But he won't press the matter anymore. Instead, he reaches for some papers that he's brought with him and begins to hand them out to Felix,)
This is our schedule. When our classes are, when we train together, and all that. You can see who's already signed up for what and choose which ones you want to do. (Pretty standard! Leonie seems to have signed up for almost every physical class with the professor, Lysithea is dedicated herself to her magic lessons, and Hilda is unsurprisingly sparse, though, she does seem to have a whole week dedicated to dance practice later in the month. As for Claude, it looks like he's dabbling in different lessons: Archery, swordsmanship, horseback riding, and... flying? In general, everything seems to be a little less organized with the Golden Deer. Training isn't always on the same day, it looks like things get moved around except for a few constants:) We usually eat dinner together on these days. You should come. I think everyone would like it if they could meet you before class.
(He points to the middle and end of the weeks which are marked in colored ink.)
Lucky for you, Teach has already chosen a dancer for the White Heron Cup but that means we have a few days off here while she helps Hilda.
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[Felix takes the papers, though, and looks them over as Claude explains. Getting a chance to train more often with Leonie is a plus, at least. He gives Claude a flat look at this talk of dinner.]
Swords, brawling, and archery are all the classes I need. I can eat on my own.
[Hilda, huh? Good, that means Felix doesn't have to concern himself with it. He feels a slight pang at the thought that Annette will be competing for an opposing class now, but shakes it off quickly. What does it matter?]
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(Oh, boy, how is he going to get this through to Felix? He can tell force isn't the best way already (not that it's really his style).)
Per regional tradition, most of us are archers. You aren't going to catch us on the frontlines or in the thick of a battle but that doesn't stop us from having each other's backs. It's important that we understand each other so we can help each other and not get in the way.
(And socializing? Helps. Those dinner dates? Perfect for bonding.)
... You should get to know everyone, Felix. We're an alliance here and an alliance is nothing worthless if we don't work together.
(He points to the first dinner they're supposed to have together on the calender.)
Give it a try, at least. And if you end up not liking it? No one can say you didn't try. We can figure out something else for both of us after that.
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[Felix shakes his head.]
I fight alone. I don't need to 'understand' my classmates. Especially when they're all far behind me on the battlefield. In the thick of a battle is where I belong.
[He glances back down at the calendar again, at Claude's insistence.]
This isn't politics, Riegan. It's a classroom, nothing more. It's not like I'm joining the Alliance.
[He sighs, irritated.]
But fine. If it will end your squawking, I'll join you for dinner. Once.
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(One doesn't become the shield of the kingdom for nothing. Which, again, makes him wonder more about Felix in a way. As his son, he'd be expected to carry on that title and yet...
He laughs lightly, finding something amusing in what Felix has said. One doesn't gather all of Fodlan's elite in one place and expect it to just be an ordinary school.)
Right, right. (He holds up his hands as if to show he means no harm and to placate him,) I wouldn't expect you to pick up and move. It isn't easy leaving home.
(But he's content for now. He's convinced Felix to have dinner with them this time. He thinks that will please some of the others,)
Good. I'll see you there.
(He stretches and folds his hands behind his neck. It looks like he's finished here. Yes, he's done the leader thing. He's checked in on his newest classmate, given him all of the information and invitations for now...)
Going to keep training?
(Even though it's their off day?)
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...whatever. He doesn't have to care about any of that for years yet. Rodrigue's hardly about to kick the bucket anytime soon. And Felix obviously has no reason to care about what home Claude might have left.
Finally, Claude looks like he's going to leave - but of course, he has to get one last question in.]
Yes. Does my new house leader have a problem with that?
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He cants his head just slightly to the side and smiles that same, practiced smile of his; friendly, warm, carefree... and not quite right if you're really paying attention.)
None at all. In fact, I'm happy to have such a hardworking new member among us.
(A glance at Felix's sword,)
Archery and swords, right?
(That's what he mentioned practicing earlier...)
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Following Claude's glance, he lifts his sword a little by way of response.]
Swords, primarily. But archery and brawling can be useful, as well. An effective warrior makes use of as many of the options at their disposal as they can.
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There aren't many studying swords here.
(Ignatz and Marianne, interestingly enough but just imagining either of them against Felix in the training hall... He can't imagine Felix not scaring them off to other lessons. Even their other Blue Lions recruit, Sylvain, is more likely to train with the lance or axe while Leonie prefers the lance and bow.)
It's mostly Teach and myself...
(Frowning and he wonders if Felix can follow where his thoughts are going. While it's entirely possible to practice with their dear professor, it's more likely now that another student has come along, she'll put them against each other during lessons.
He looks at Felix, regarding him up and down for a moment and then--) Oof.
Oof.
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There aren't many studying the sword among the Lions either, what's your point?
[Felix decides he hates the way Claude is studying him. He feels weirdly exposed, and whatever this nonsense is, it's confusing him. When he replies, his tone is flat.]
What. If you have something to say, just say it.
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I wouldn't be surprised if Teach paired us together for the next few lessons. (Easier than tossing Ignatz or Marianne into the fray and undoing months of building up their confidence,) I have an exam to train for, you know?
(Every young Lord is expected to master Fodlan's swordstyle. He's on the same path as Dimitri and Edelgard in that respect,)
I get a feeling we're going to be partners.
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But after a moment, his expression slips into a smirk.]
In that case, I'd suggest putting in some extra training time yourself. You'll need it.
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Right.
(He sounds uncertain but there is a part of him that migtht be looking forward to the new challenge... that is until he remembers he isn't a melee fighter and can really only take so many hits before he has to call for mercy.)
I'll see if I can squeeze it in.
(He says like he didn't just give Felix a calendar showing how available he really is.)
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Your schedule looks pretty open to me.
[He lifts his sword and points it at Claude's chest.]
In fact, you don't look very busy at all right now. Spar with me.
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That's kind of the point.
(That he looks free?)
It is our day off, after all. You know... a break from studying and training?
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[Felix lowers his blade again.]
Fine. Take your break, then. But if we're going to be partnered, I expect your swordsmanship to be worth my time. It's pointless for me to train with you if you can't even come close to keeping up.
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You know, I'm not the only one studying here. And it's true, we might not have much to offer right now... but consider all we could learn while we work together.
(No doubt, Felix will knock him on his bottom in their matches and though it pains him to think about it, he knows he'll come out stronger and better for it.
(Just like back home, he thinks. Hah, training with Felix might make him nostalgic...))
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[He turns his back on Claude to return to his training, although he half-expects to be interrupted again. This man talks too much and says too little.]
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We will.
(Claude is certain of it.)
Welcome to the Golden Deer, Felix.
(And he excuses himself, slipping away to do whatever it is Claude von Riegan does on his day off.)
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When Felix comes to the training grounds this morning, he'll find Byleth overseeing Claude and Ignatz. The lesson is basic, nothing special, and for Felix, probably incredibly boring to watch. Ignatz fumbles his way through the lesson, doubtful and uncertain while Claude fares much more confidently. Claude leads Ignatz through the moves, creating all of the right openings, creating openings that Byleth calls out at Ignatz to strike at. After awhile, he manages to catch his sword on Claude's in just the right way and disarm him like he's supposed to. They repeat it a few more times until Byleth ends their practice. Teacher and leader praise Ignatz, encouraging him to practice more and promising to see him later. When Ignatz turns to leave, he seems genuinely surprised to see Felix there and manages a nervous "good morning" before taking his leave.
To Felix, it should have been obvious who the more skilled swordsman was during practice. Unfortunately, it doesn't reveal much of Claude's skill at all.
Claude goes to take a drink of water and Byleth acknowledges Felix, greeting him in that usual, neutral manner of hers, and explaining that today she thought it would be good if, instead of her, he practiced with--
"Claude."
He comes over when called, swinging his wooden practice sword in his hand, a display of show instead of skill, )
Are you sure about that, Teach? You know I wouldn't mind taking it easy a bit...
(She's certain and he only shrugs in response, as casual as ever, )
Alright. (He looks at Felix, smiling, clearly having fun,) Go easy on me, okay?
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So by contrast, watching the glasses-wearing archer (what was his name again? something with an I...) stumble through a simple disarming exercise almost makes him turn around and leave. Fortunately, Byleth is also here, and it's for her alone that he stays until they're finished, doing his pre-training stretches in the meantime and mostly ignoring that disaster of a lesson. He spares Ignatz a glance and a slight nod at his greeting before he approaches the other two. Of course, Riegan was right and she's going to make them spar together. Great.]
No.
[He retrieves a practice sword of his own and takes a few warmup swipes at the air before squaring off with Claude, distinctly not smiling.]
Let's get this over with.
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Claude offers a quick glance over to Byleth, full of confidence and then shifts into a ready position. He's hardly as serious as Felix is but there's a determination in his eye. He isn't going to let Byleth down, especially when she's watching.)
Well? (He isn't going to make the first move.) Hurry up, then.
(So he'll just goad Felix on. )
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[So Claude's going to be like that, huh? Fine with Felix. He prefers not to hang back too much anyway; he's not surprised that the archer would.
His advance is swift and steady, but measured; this is no headfirst charge. Claude will find him a relentless, highly focused, and vicious fighter, not at all averse to stepping outside the standard forms to land a hit or break a standoff. He dodges and parries in equal measure, but his dodging never takes him too far from where he was if he can help it. He can switch hands relatively effectively, which helps him be unpredictable, and perhaps most importantly, he's fast. Which is good, because Claude is, too.
Felix can't tell which of them has the advantage in raw strength - at least, until his Crest activates to put much more weight behind a blow. And it's a Major Crest, so it activates often. But Felix doesn't count on his Crest in his technique; it's just gravy.]
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He tries to keep a distance when possible and if they're ever close enough to strike, he attacks where he can. Interesting, he thinks, when Felix switches hands. He'd been hoping to put him at a disadvantage by disarming his better side but it looks like it'll take more than that. Even more interesting, perhaps, is that Felix isn't the only one that can use both hands.
While Claude has been favoring a one-handed technique, one that matches the traditional style of the ruling class that usually uses a single-handed rapier, he suddenly switches to his other hand. His hits are stronger this time and Felix is smart enough that he'll be able to realize that Claude had been using his less dominant side for their first half of the fight. Just one of his many tricks to lure his opponent into a false sense of security against him.
He's able to hold back some of Felix's attacks like this but in terms of strength, he'll never be able to match him. His greatest advantage is his speed and Felix has him matched there. Byleth calls out to Claude, reminding him to raise his arms or to not give up too much ground. He's the one getting the advice. He's the one that needs it the most in this match and he tries to rise to it each time. He tries and he does.
When Felix comes down at him with a heavy strike, catching his blade on Claude's and pinning him in place, it looks like he might have to yield...
... Claude kicks out his leg, aiming his foot right for Felix's shin. He might be a noble but he's not above fighting dirty to win. If he can trip Felix, he'll immediately move to strike him with his sword in turn.)
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Maybe there's something worthwhile in pairing up with Claude after all.
Still, Felix has the advantage in both strength and stamina, and he wields his sword like it's an extension of his arm. He's not prone to lowering his guard just because he thinks he's close to victory, but he does expect this to be the end of the match. It takes him by surprise when a sharp pain shoots up his leg and drives him stumbling to one knee with a clipped, wordless shout; instinctively, he lifts his sword to parry whatever might be following that kick.
He looks up at Claude between their crossed blades and gives him a smirk.]
So you do have some fight in you after all, Riegan.
[This is a bad position to be in, though, so Felix simultaneously shoves upward with his sword and swings a leg out in an attempt to sweep Claude's feet out from under him in return.]
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(He sounds amused, pushing back against his blade. He knows better than to try to overpower him. The best he can do is try to pin him down and limit his movements, making it easier to predict his next.
Felix is a brawler. He could make a swing for him while he's close but even with his strength, Claude's two handed grip would put him at an advantage. He would be most likely to use his dominant hand...
Not many opportunities to strike back with his sword. Felix could knock him back. He's strong enough. But that would just drag things out even more. Dangerous to risk when there's that chance his own Crest of Riegan might kick in, providing that boost in stamina he needs to keep going. Would Felix consider that? He wonders...
If he was in Felix's position, he knows what he would do. He would do the exact same thing he did a moment before. Aim for the legs, trip up his opponent, throw him off his balance--
Felix's leg moves and Claude leaps. Of course, this means he gives up his footing, and it's enough for Felix to push him back mid-air with the counter force he's already been applying to keep him off. Maybe against the amateur mercenary or the average brigand, it would be enough to avoid his next move but Felix is skilled. He's fast. He's a practiced. Now is the best time to really catch Claude, before he can land and catch his bearings again.)
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It's Felix looking down this time, and his smirk turns self-satisfied.]
Do you yield?
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He freezes, practice sword at his throat.
His eyes flash, like he would absolutely keep fighting if he could he can recognize when he's caught.)
... I yield. (He settles back on the ground, holding up one hand to sign defeat,) You win, Felix.
(And like that, the fight is gone from his eyes and he lets out a loud, dramatic sigh,)
Ye-ouch! Did you have to hit me that hard?!
(He's rubbing his back. Did he land on a stone or something? And his arms feel like jelly after taking so many blows.)
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...and then he's complaining, back to his usual ridiculous self, but Felix isn't quite as fooled anymore. There's more to Claude than meets the eye, he's sure of it.
He pulls his sword back and gets to his feet, instinct telling him not to turn his back on Claude despite the spar having ended. Never turn your back on an opponent. Especially not one as clever as this one. Instead, he just steps back and gives Claude an unimpressed look.]
Stop whining. I told you I wasn't going to go easy on you.
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(He helps himself up. He's never been one to really ask for help or rely on others. He can stand on his own. He doubts Felix would trust him if he asked, anyway.)
A Major Crest is no joke...
(So that's what it's like to have one used against you? He has to think of a way to counter that.
Byleth comes over to check on them to which Claude replies that he's fine. He's just all jelly after their match. She makes some critique on their footwork and form, following up with that she'd like them to practice together again and make it a regular thing if they'll allow it. The two of them could benefit from studying each other's styles.
Claude grimaces, rubbing his arm in response.)
Yeah, sure.
(He can't really say no to his dear professor, afterall. It's up to Felix to decide if he wants to do the same.)
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[He shrugs at this talk of his Crest. It does nothing if he isn't skilled enough to put it to good use. It's a secondary concern for him, although he does acknowledge that his foes have to contend with it. That's just another reason for Claude to train harder.
Felix listens carefully to Byleth's critiques, and perhaps surprisingly, doesn't protest or even look disgruntled when she assigns them to regular training together. He just nods.]
Agreed.
[He turns to Claude, then.]
You like to pretend you're a beginner, but you're not. And you like to complain about training, but I saw it in your eyes. You wanted to keep going. To win.
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(He had to use his dominant hand, pull out some tricks... there really wasn't much chance to slack off and hide his ability. If he hadn't spent so much energy just trying to not get hit, he probably would have opted for a more direct and aggressive strategy against Felix instead. Actually, he should have done that from the beginning. He should have known better but he's been able to get by for so long with mostly speed and just enough skill, he'd fallen back on the usual strategy,)
... I guess I miscalculated.
(No further explanation there. Ah, but now Felix is coming at him verbally and while he isn't wrong, Claude isn't going to admit to any of that. At least buy a guy a drink first.)
More like I didn't want to get hit again. You almost got me in the face! (He brings a hand to his cheek, rubbing it as if just thinking about what could have been hurts him,) What would I have done then? It's my second best asset, right after my mind, you know!
(Yeah, he's definitely going to play this off.)
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[Felix doesn't know what he means by 'miscalculated,' but he doesn't particularly care, either. He's more interested in coaxing that other Claude back out again. Next time won't be experimental, on Felix's part - next time, he'll know what to expect, and put Claude down faster.
(Felix doesn't know yet that Claude is much too unpredictable for that kind of certainty.)
He gives Claude a flat look and then turns to put his practice sword away.]
Playing stupid doesn't suit you any more than it suits Sylvain. You have a hunger to fight, there's no point in denying it. I'll find out what it is.
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(Always thinking ahead, thinking about his advantages and disadvantages, the different ways a situation can go, and picking the path that works best. They say the quickest path is a straight line but he knows sometimes it's better to take the winding one; the path that can be changed depending on the journey.
But that's not how Felix is. He prefers to walk a straight and direct path which is something Claude can respect. It's not a bad thing, he thinks, it's helped Felix read him fairly well, after all.)
Not at all. (Well, not quite. He wouldn't really describe his willingness to fight as hungry,) Why, I'm as gentle as a deer.
(Heh.)
Speaking of deer, you should read up on the Golden Deer sometime. You might learn something. If you don't like reading, I'm sure someone would be happy to explain.
(Like how despite being gentle creatures, the Golden Deer have protected Leicester since time immemorial, and one should always be careful because deer are fast, strong, and their antlers are sharp.
... But he wonders if Felix will even bother with that. Well, it's his loss.)
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[Felix arches a brow at all this pointless dissembling, and then blinks.]
If you're telling me to learn more about our classmates, I assume the Professor will tell me anything I need to know about them. But if 'someone' would be happy to explain, then be that someone. If there's something you want me to know, just tell me. I'm not doing research for your amusement.
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(Ask? Who's asking?)
I'd be happy to explain over lunch some time. In fact, I'm free right now.
(Is he... trying to get rid of Felix or actually teach him the history of Leicester? Who knows.)
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It's a week of promises at Garreg Mach and all leading up to the pinnacle moment! The ball! It's all anyone can really talk about leading up to the night. It didn't take much to convince Byleth to let them out of class early to prepare.... not that he needed to prepare but Hilda and Lorenz certainly seemed to appreciate the extra time. It's very much like the deer to focus on having fun than on serious things like training and classes right now though so Felix's practices have probably been sorely lacking or at least, mostly alone.
On the night of the ball, Claude happily dances with the professor and even shares a few turns with Hilda and Flayn (despite Seteth's glares). He doesn't stick around for long though. He's an outsider and there's nothing like a party to really drive home that fact. It was fun dancing with his friends! But it didn't take a sharp eye to see he was far from popular. And to be honest? It suited him fine.
When the ball is really getting underway, he slips out into the night when no one is looking...
... and takes a few snacks with him. )