emperor || hiatus

edelgard von hresvelg || affiliated with fe-rp

[ambitionled-blog]

mishaps in the kitchen || open

[ambitionled-blog]

galdr-of-bliss‌:

In silence, Leanne studied Edelgard as she undertook the task of peeling her first potato utilizing the proper equipment necessary to complete the job. While she was already aware that Edelgard lacked any knowledge pertaining to food preparation, watching her tense form attempt to begin led her to understand that it would not come instinctively to her as well. Rather than holding the paring knife as a tool, she held it like a weapon, slicing the potato as if it were a foe rather than creating a small slit into its peel. It was clear that Edelgard was attempting to be gentle, taking her time to make slow, precise movements, but her technique was completely off, causing her to make little progress.

She lifted her eyes from Edelgard’s hands just as the princess looked to her, silently pleading for help. Fortunately for leader of the Black Eagles, Leanne’s ability to read the emotions of others easily allowed her to understand what she was attempting to convey through a look alone. What a stubborn girl, to seek help but refusing to ask for it in words. It seems she her confidence is only exceeded by her pride… She mused to herself, pushing a long lock of golden hair behind her ear before she smiled.

“Knife…not using as a weapon,” Leanne explained, picking up her own knife once more to demonstrate, “hold it…different. Like this. Vegetable in palm…thumb guide the blade.” She presented the proper technique to Edelgard, her voice full of nothing but patience. It was clear that Leanne did not look down upon the princess for her lack of ability, but rather, seemed happy to be able to be of assistance.

“Think…not of peeling. Like…take off…wrapping.” She reached for one of the peels that had landed on the counter top, lifting it delicately in her fingers to demonstrate that it was thin, similar to wrapping paper.

Leanne’s word broke through the tactical haze that was Edelgard’s mind. Lilac hues landed on the model that Leanne was presenting for the safe of potato peeling. The white-haired youth twisted the knife around in her hand, changing the way she held it. Gloved thumb was pressing against the blade and Edelgard’s total concentrate was on the way Leanne was holding it.

Silence would follow, only the occasional nod showing that Edelgard was still listening as she mimicked the other princess’ movements. When Leanne presented the analogy, her brows furrowed slightly in puzzlement. “Wrapping... like linen bandages?” She muttered, wondering if that was a feasible representation of what she should do to this potato. Edelgard’s gaze followed Leanne’s movement as she picked up a discarded peel.

“...” She fell silent again, lips pursed in contemplation. “That is thin indeed. However, if I pretend this potato is an arm and I am wrapping a wound, then I just need to do it in reverse.” She nodded, a newfound realization coming to her. However, as she began her movements again, she could not but help feel how tedious this was. “And what are we making with these potatoes? If we were making something mashed, I cannot help but feel like smashing it with an axe would be easier...”

Edelgard paused. “That is, not to say I do not appreciate your efforts. Actually, I thank you for your guidance.” She nodded seriously. “I am glad that we are partners. You did not judge me critically for my lack of experience.” She paused, wondering if her next statement would be rude. “You are also nobility. Are the traditions in Tellius different for the royalty there? I imagine that these skills are necessary, but I... had never learned it. Not before coming to the monastery.”

[ambitionled-blog]

noblestandard‌:

On the day that he had been assigned to guard the Great Bridge of Myrrdin Edelgard had approached him and directly commanded him to flee should his life and the bridge ever be in danger. At the time he had wanted to laugh. The Empire controlled so much already and the bridge was well within Gloucester territory, never did he imagine that any Alliance or Kingdom troops would be able to break through, not without sustaining heavy losses. A march to Myrrdin was a march to their deaths… at least that’s what he had thought for many years.

Steel clashed and blood stained the ground as his allies fell around him. It wasn’t so much of a battle as it was a slaughter, the Alliance troops had taken minimal casualties while his own troops had been nearly annihilated when he realized there was no hope left. His horse was dead and his body was cut up and battered, but with his remaining strength he had fled with small group of soldiers. Those who were left behind, he hated to admit, were little more than shields who were quickly cut down.

He would not be able to forget their screams.

It had only been hours before he first passed out and needed makeshift medical treatment. He hadn’t been able to bring along a healer in their fleeing party, all of them had been early targets and taken down first, but they made due with tying cloths dipped in vulernary around his worst injuries to at least stop most of the bleeding. His state had declined by the time they reached Enbarr, the capital and he’d been rushed to the infirmary to be treated.

By the time Edelgard had come to visit him his injuries had been properly tended to and he’d had some time to heal. It still pained him to move too much, but he made an effort to sit up when he watched her enter the room anyway, using his elbows to push himself up to make it a little easier on himself.

“I am already doing much better now, thank you.” His smile wasn’t as bright as it had once been. “Did you need something of me? If it is not too physically strenuous I am sure I can be of assistance.”

She frowned when he moved, but then again, she supposed she shouldn’t have expected less. Ferdinand had never been one to show weakness in front of her, no matter how wounded he was. With a sigh, Edelgard took her steps to his bedside, one open palm reaching out to lightly smack his shoulder.

“You fool. Lay down. I did not come here to order you around.” Then she turned to the bishop, confirming that his condition was stable before dismissing them. Silently, Edelgard brought a chair and seated herself a few feet away from the bed. Her expression was now much less guarded, though she still regarded him with thinly veiled irritation.

“You actually listened to me this time,” she said. And though her voice carried relief, she could not help the sigh. “I had been worried, admittedly.” He was stubborn, perhaps almost as much as she was, so she had prepared herself to not receive anyone back from the battle. The small group he retreated with had been much more than she expected, and she was glad that her realism had not come true in the moment.

Hubert would be laughing, if he heard her thoughts now. Although Edelgard started this war prepared for loss, it seemed that when it came to her former classmates, she was not so ready to let go. But perhaps it was unfair of her to think like that. Despite all the relief in the world, her analytical gaze rested on his face.

“... How are you feeling?” She could not trust anyone to reveal how they felt to her, not without lies. She was the emperor, people would twist their words around to say whatever they thought would make her feel better. So... she could only rely on her own abilities to ascertain what exactly seemed off about his smile.

[ambitionled-blog]

@noblestandard

She had steeled herself for the worst. War was merciless and she... she thought she needed to be too. The Emperor was known for her direct methods, frowned upon by the entire continent, and any moves she made would be seen as evil. She did not mind their whispers, for the path she walked upon was coated in blood.

But, despite the coldness of her blade, this was not something she could pass onto the people that had chosen to stake their lives for her goals. With all his gripping about being her rival back in their youthful days, the fact that Ferdinand von Aegir had chosen to help her came as a welcome surprise five years ago.

And to think, when she gave orders to defend the Great Bridge of Myrddin, that she would also stop him and command him that if he saw things fall to his disadvantage, to retreat and come back to her side - ah, the attitude she had to his past self was certainly laughable.

Perhaps she had jinxed him. News of his defeat spread among her war counsel. But with great fortune did his life remain intact. He had been sent to the infirmary to attend to whatever wounds he may have occurred --

-- And that was where Edelgard directed her footsteps to, sliding the door open after knocking only once.

“Ferdinand, how are your wounds?”

[ambitionled-blog]

@monastery-mercenary

Hubert would say this was a horrible idea, she knew. Crumpling the letter in her fist, she had not responded to his warning at first. She agreed with him. Edelgard had no ties to Byleth, she had been the professor of a different house who involved herself with all her students too closely. 

Yet...

“I owe the professor this much, at least.”

When she had said that, Hubert didn’t have room to argue. He could disobey her order if he deemed it necessary, which was why she had to have him occupied while she walked out of the encampment, a dagger concealed underneath her armor. It was just for self-defense in case this meeting went awry.

Emperor Edelgard was making a decision out of sentimentality. The life debt she owed Byleth, she hoped one day she could repay it. But if Byleth chose to collect on that now, she could probably not fulfill it just yet.

Entering the isolated clearing, Edelgard sighed. She remained alert, straining her ears for any signs of the former mercenary to arrive.

[wyrmforge]

🎵 i fear the edge of dawn knowing time betrays 🎵

twitter 

[ambitionled-blog]

@heirofhousehevring || from here

Edelgard brought a gloved hand to her face, pinching the bridge of her nose in exasperation. “Believe me, it’s cruel enough that I have to come fetch you personally. I thought about sending Hubert again, but it seems that it falls upon myself to try and rectify your... skipping problem.” For lack of better word, anyway. Seeing how laid-back he was in this situation was a bit... frustrating.

Plus, the added sarcastic title almost tempted Edelgard to reach in and pull his ear mercilessly out like an affronted mother. Almost.

“You acknowledge me as the emperor but not your house leader? I wonder if I should be amused or annoyed. In any case, I’ve brought the remedial materials. You will make up the lecture with me, on a one-on-one study session in the library. Since I’m your benevolent Emperor.” That, and as the house leader anyway, she was responsible for all her classmates and their success in the monastery.

[ambitionled-blog]

mishaps in the kitchen || open

[ambitionled-blog]

galdr-of-bliss‌:

From where she was standing, Leanne could feel Edelgard’s focused gaze upon her. Had she not been used to constant attention, she may have felt great discomfort. Aside from the typical regard and scrutiny a princess or other member of the royalty received, white herons often received extra attention due to their exceptional beauty. Leanne was no exception. Since stepping foot in the Officer’s Academy, Leanne had been subject to staring, and she did her best to pay it little regard. She did not want to bring attention to her identity, particularly since she was a royal of a foreign land. From what she knew of Fodlan, beasts held no presence here. She drew herself from her thoughts as Edelgard’s attention shifted to the knife in her hand.

“Yes…axe has too much power. Would…make…harsh to be eated. Or cooked.” Leanne replied in agreement, following Edelgard’s gaze to the potatoes she had already peeled. She had considered commenting on her royalty and that she hadn’t gained any cooking experience until she joined the Officer’s Academy, but she decided against it. It didn’t seem to be particularly important to the conversation, especially since Edelgard seemed more interested in her technique instead. She paused for a moment, thought clearly written on her features as she searched for the words in her mind to properly communicate. After a moment, she located the word she was looking for.

“Conserve. Uh, that is…for food…we take. From nature. Since we take…I want to use all that is eatable. I not want to waste. Cutting close to peel…helps not waste.” She explained, a soft smile overtaking her features. Like all herons, Leanne carried a special bond with nature. She could hear the voices of the trees, feel the life in the crops, and had a far stronger understanding of the earth than most. To waste the land’s bounty was selfish in her eyes.

"Conservation,” she echoed. Ah, it was an important quality to preserve indeed. Those who were not as fortunate as them, born out of nobility, or perhaps imprisoned... they would not enjoy food like this. So, they would have to sacrifice convenience and speed for frugality. If Leanne put it in that way though, Edelgard could hardly argue. They were borrowing things from this world, after all.

It was a bit difficult to shift that mindset. However, she ought to start now. With a small nod, Edelgard picked up a potato and carefully rolled it in her gloved hand. “I should provide assistance then. It would hardly be fair to you if you peeled all the potatoes.” Gripping a paring knife in her other stand, she watched Leanne for a few more minutes before attempting a cut on her own.

Edelgard von Hresvelg was a very confident person, but in this moment, there was the smallest hint of uncertainty as the blade slid into the potato. “Is... this the right start?” It was fortunate that no one else was in the kitchen at this time, lest she be laughed at for her poor conduct of potato peeling. Is there a right way? A better way? Or, Empire forbid, she had already brought the potato to ruin and went right off to wasting it?

Faintly, Edelgard will shift her gaze back to Leanne. Almost a silent cry for advice (not help, she will claim - she was entirely determined to at least contribute half to this meal, if she could help it).

[ambitionled-blog]

❛ hello edelgard, would you like to have some tea and sweets with me? we have not gotten to speak in a while. ❜

@monastery-mercenary

The sound of her name had Edelgard turning in surprise, blinking once as if the person in front of her was not the mysterious professor of the Golden Deer house. Ah, but mysterious was an old term now - it had been a few months since this mercenary had saved her life, after all. Despite the regret Edelgard felt over Byleth not choosing the Black Eagles, she was still interesting to learn about.

That being said, the invitation for tea and sweets was tempting. “Hello, Professor.” Edelgard nodded in acknowledgment, offering a thin smile in greeting. “I’d love to. But are you sure you’re not busy? I’m sure... it has been hectic for you lately.”

[ambitionled-blog]

boarshield‌:

Not bad. She as may as well have told him that he was insignificant and hardly posed a challenge. Felix’s scowl deepens, but even he knows that responding to such commentary will only make him seem like a child. Besides, it’s not as though he wants to spar her again right away. If there’s this much of a disparity in their skill now, then it will take some time before crossing blades with her again would even be a productive endeavor.

Now that they’ve finished sparring, Felix is done exchanging pleasantries with her. He’s fully prepared to turn away and continue practicing on his own when Edelgard continues speaking, and he hesitates with his hand on the hilt of his sheathed blade.

“Beat someone? Please,” Felix scoffs. “I’m not some idealistic child with a fated rival like a character in a storybook. What do you take me for?” Of course he likes sharpening his blade against difficult opponents, but he’s not particularly motivated to best any specific person. Ideally if he trained enough he’d be able to best anyone, but that level of strength is a work in progress.

Protect important things – “For someone who carries themselves like they’re infinitely thoughtful and wise, you sure are as much a fool as the rest of them. I’m not some knight gallivanting around to boost morale with my triumphs. I fight because I enjoy swords. Not for some selfish game of playing the hero.” Her words certainly had struck a nerve. “Individual strength is what’s important to me. That’s all you can count on in a fight.”

If she were to compare Felix to anything in the world right now...

... It would be a cat. Which is difficult, because Edelgard herself is a dog person (though she’s also weak to cats, admittedly - the creatures are cute in their own regard). Perhaps he senses this and his hostility is a result of that. It’s actually quite amusing on its own. Not even Hubert is as unfriendly as this man, as ironic as it seems - while Hubert is known to be intimidating, Felix’s coldness is not a result of appearances, but rather a seemingly personal preference for refusing to entertain meaningless conversations.

On that note, Edelgard finds that they’re alike in this regard. Normally, she’d exit the area since her business here is done, but frankly, she’s a bit intrigued by this person. Apparently, he has a history with that person.

“You seemed like the type, but forgive my presumption,” she responds idly. “You are much more like someone who will want to protect something after all.” He denies it strongly, which only further supports her theory. “It’s not far off to say that you wish to elevate your personal strength in order to protect the ones who cannot fight... or those who are weaker. After all...”

She runs her hand along wooden blade, eyes gleaming with a hint of nostalgia. “You cannot be strong by yourself. In the end, your power alone won’t be enough for the things important to you. But, ah, I’m sure you’ll discover that in due time, if not now.”

[ambitionled-blog]

"Edelgard, we must duel! I have to prove that I have surpassed you!"

@noblestandard

Oh no. She knew that voice.

With a sigh, Edelgard turned to greet the other with her lips pulled into a thin line. She had thought that she had managed to stave off the persistent noble last time, but it seemed it would not be so easy with words. Of course, his determination was always something that she admired (not that she’d ever admit such a thing right now, when the compliment would just blow up in her face).

However, she did not have time for this. “Ferdinand, my answer remains the same.” She shook her head. “If you wish to duel someone, why not try someone like Felix from Blue Lions? I had bested him in a spar the other day. Defeat him, and perhaps I may consider your proposal another time.”

Maybe that will ease up his battle-eagerness now.

[ambitionled-blog]

edelgard kidnaps laevatein for her sword || laevatein & edelgard

[ambitionled-blog]

kumadewarrior‌:

Laevatein wonders what exactly Edelgard had heard about her father. Did she know the true extent of his thirst for power and conquest to no real end? More than that – had she heard about Surtr’s complete disregard for his own family? If anything made her father a bad person, that would be the reason for Laevatein. Perhaps things would have been different if it had only been her and Surtr conquering the world together. But Laevatein had cared for her older sister truly, beyond just the relationship of a soldier and her commanding officer. Laegjarn had been the only person to ever see her as a human being and not a weapon, and Surtr had killed her. Simplistic as it may seem, it was that act alone that brought Laevatein to the decision that her father had been a bad person.

“I guess reasons are important,” Laevatein agrees. “I don’t know what my father’s reasons were. He did what he wanted and told me not to question him. But after he was overthrown, I started thinking about the orders he asked me to carry out, cutting down enemy soldiers without any thought. I couldn’t think of any good reason for it… it frustrated me. Suddenly there were people asking me for my opinions about Muspell’s future, but I had never known why I was doing anything in the first place…”

Perhaps she’s admitting too much and putting Muspell in a weak position by owning up to her own incompetence. But Edelgard seems to have concrete plans for the Empire, and if Laevatein can’t figure out her own path for Muspell, they may be able to join forces under a common goal. Even as the alleged queen of Muspell now, Laevatein knows she’s been trained to be a mindless follower of the ideals of others, and that’s a difficult habit to break.

“Don’t go out of my way to…” Laevatein echoes thoughtfully. “No, I guess you’re right. I don’t. Killing can be… necessary. But my father enjoyed it. That made him a bad person… probably. I can’t imagine enjoying that. It feels like a job to me. But if I found a good reason to kill, maybe it would be better. Ah… I’m sorry, Edelgard.” She forgets to address the girl formally, embarrassed about her own meandering train of thought. “You’re right, it’s not really a question other people can answer. I’ll… keep thinking about it.”

She’s not sure why Edelgard is grinning at her acknowledgement of Hubert – is it strange for some reason? “My sister was a great tactician,” Laevatein says, gaze dropping to the table for a beat. “She always thought ahead and could predict enemy movements, even when they tried to trick her. She wasn’t as strong, but she could understand people better than me. In that sense, I think Hubert is similar. So I admire him.” Of course, there are plenty of things she admires about Edelgard and the rest of her classmates as well. “And he… seems like he’d do anything for you,” she adds quietly. “That reminds me of my sister, too.”

As future emperor, her network of information did not fall short of its responsibilities. That being the case, Muspell was a region that not many would venture to. The terrain was difficult to navigate and the weather also made it unbearable to stay in for long, however, Edelgard managed to get the bare bones of the revolution that occurred in that country. However, if Laevatein would ever open up to her about the secrets under the crown, perhaps it would enlighten her more. However, Edelgard isn’t really planning for that - there are always things they cannot share with others.

“So, you’re still growing and learning,” she comments. “Well, just as much as anyone else in this monastery, I suppose, but as an heiress, you’ve likely found yourself in large shoes to fill.” She leans back then, pressing a gloved finger to her chin and looking quite thoughtful. “I believe... you may find your answer soon. It’s good that you’ve come to Fodlan then. Being put on the spot makes it difficult to think, even for me. The breath of fresh air away from Muspell and prying eyes may make it easier for you to come to a decision, once the time arrives.”

Edelgard can offer her help, of course, but she’s also afraid that once she makes any attempt to put a foot down in Muspell, those against the Empire will go out of their way to make things difficult for her. While the youth has no intentions of making Muspell her own, having more interest in creating an alliance with them instead, it’s an... easy task to manipulate. Muspell’s current position is quite precarious, after all...

“The Empire will offer their protection to your country, of course. As an ally... and as a friend.” Edelgard clears her throat, clearly embarrassed at the terminology. While she and Laevatein haven’t gotten quite that close yet, the Black Eagle house leader has announced her intentions quite clearly. And to Hubert’s amusement, making ‘friends’ would be the last thing that anyone would expect of the cool-blooded heiress.

Speaking of Hubert, Laevatein’s continued curiosity of her closest friend does have Edelgard chuckling, much more than usual. “Your sister sounds like a talented person. I’m sure that if we had met, I’d admire her just as much as you.” After all, Edelgard already has a great amount of mutual respect for Hubert. Talent is also something she seeks, and power is a necessity - all these factors played well in her favor.

Laevatein’s last comment, teetering on the levels of somberness, has Edelgard smiling softly. “He would. And I would do the same for him too. More than my adviser, he’s also an important friend. I hold regret for not being able to meet your sister... but I do hope that your memories of her can also ease that regret. After all, she has someone who loves her very much. I’m sure she must have been a wonderful person.”

[ambitionled-blog]

tacticalschemer‌:

“It’s rare, but yeah sometimes I have trouble sleeping, too.” 

 He would set aside his jokes for now, at least for the most part. With the topic at hand, and with his goal, it felt like it would be better to keep it mostly serious.

“I’d be lying if I said everything was fine. I’m trying to figure out the motivation behind attacking a group of students like that but… I don’t know.” He had several ideas, actually, just nothing solid and even less that he was willing to share. Not when he still had his doubts about her, at least. “And as for my house. They’re doing about as well as anyone else. For the most part.”

The first person that came to his mind was Leonie. She had taken it the hardest out of everyone in his house, which wasn’t surprising since she had been incredibly close to the captain.

“Obviously the Church will be on high guard until they find Captain Jeralt’s killers. After that… well, I’m not so sure. Nothing good, no doubt.”

That could have been the goal of the attack, he now considered. Killing the captain and putting the Church on high guard would mean search parties. Search parties meant easy targets as well as a less secure monastery. Would anyone really directly attack the Central Church, though? Who could beat them?

“How about you? Got any enlightening ideas?”

She wondered if it would be as easy as he made it to be. The church had yet to figure out the true identity of the Flame Emperor and had no idea that their enemies had been right under their noses as faculty and student - Edelgard doubted their capability to capture Kronya... and the others, for that matter.

The white-haired youth sighed, placing a hand idly on her hip. “It’d be foolish to assume anything about their motivations when we know so little about them. So, on that note, I also fall short of clever ideas. One thing is certain though - the monsters they’ve created are dangerous. One doesn’t need to speculate to know the calamity that will come if they’re left unattended.”

It’s likely that Thales created those monsters in order to fight the church, but for reasons that most others wouldn’t know - after all, the true nature of the archbishop remained a secret restrained to only a select few in Fodlan.

Edelgard remained wary, though relaxed her posture in these few minutes. She was exhausted and the toll of the events that had transpired earlier proved too much even for her seemingly emotionless self. “As the leaders of our houses, we have a duty to protect the other students. Yet how frustrating must it be, to have these things out of our hands.” She turned away, lifting a gloved hand and staring at it silently. “We need power to protect things important to us. I’m sure you can agree, despite being one to fall to underhanded tactics at times.” 

The jab lacked any real bite. If anything, it touched upon the vaguest hints of teasing, though her bittersweet expression explained more than her words.

[ambitionled-blog]

mishaps in the kitchen || open

[ambitionled-blog]

galdr-of-bliss‌:

Utilizing a paring knife, Leanne carefully peeled the potato in her hand. In hardly any time at all, the orb-shaped vegetable resting in her palm was now white, and she dropped its curling, spiral-like peel into a sack for compost. The girl smiled, pleased with her work. She then set it down onto the cutting board, beginning to carefully cube it. 

When she first arrived at Garreg Mach monastery, Leanne was hardly able to cook at all. Having come from royalty, she hardly ever had to prepare food for herself before the academy, and doing so was a completely new experience. The food of Fodlan was far different than that she had eaten in Tellius, causing her to have hardly any familiarity at all with the cuisine. There were far too many times she spit her meal mid-consumption into a napkin upon realizing it was meat, or that the flavor was far too strange for her to swallow. That of course, is only a fraction of the shock. She also had to learn an entirely new language in a short period of time. Though she still stumbled, she was better than she once was, finding herself less likely to need to smile and nod through conversations.

She turned at the sound of a voice, turning to see none other than Edelgard. She was of the leader of the Black Eagles house, but that was the extent of her knowledge of her. Her feelings of determination were somewhat overwhelming, but she smiled anyway.

“Do…what? Um…I think no. Weapons…have far great power. Too much for food. Unless hunting…maybe.” Leanne replied, her accent thick. Her verdant eyes met Edelgard’s gaze. Her long, blonde locks that easily reached her thighs shifted slightly with her movements.

The gentle correction had Edelgard release a short sigh, bringing a hand to her chin in contemplation. She squinted at the paring knife, noting just how small it was, even smaller than a dagger. For the life of her, she couldn’t fathom how useful it could really be.

She stepped closer to Leanne, scrutinizing the way she held the knife and potato. There was no ill intent in her movements, just curious observation. “I suppose you have a point. If you were to use an axe on this potato, it would be obliterated.” Not the ideal scenario if one wanted to use it for cooking, of course. Then she glanced towards Leanne.

“You seem to be familiar with the ways of the kitchen. I had not expected it. We are of similar background, you see.” Edelgard straightened her back, looking around the kitchen. “I imagine that as royalty, you also would not have experience with how... to cook. I can see my presumption was incorrect.” Then she pointed towards the stack of potatoes that Leanne was working on. “Except I must ask, is there a reason why you are handling it with such care? Surely there must be a faster way to peel it, especially with a blade of that size.”

Voice lacking any real criticism - she didn’t actually know what would be best. Edelgard regards the potato with a critical look. Was it truly that fragile, to need to be handled as if it were glass? Cooking is an art of its own, it seemed. Truly a shame this cooking assignment couldn’t be done quickly.

[ambitionled-blog]

edelgard kidnaps laevatein for her sword || laevatein & edelgard

[ambitionled-blog]

kumadewarrior‌:

“…Hmm.” Laevatein listens to the other girl’s words, but as usual she can’t come up with much to say. At this point in the conversation, she should at least acknowledge what Edelgard is telling her – the leader of her class wants to bond with her, and is even willing to admit her own weak points to seem approachable – but instead she remains quiet for a while, ruminating on the words to no avail.

Before she realizes it, she has begun to make her way to the dining hall without responding properly, and Laevatein turns back after they’ve walked a while, embarrassed that she had lost track of the conversation so completely. “I was thinking,” she says apologetically, which technically isn’t a lie. “About what you said. And I was wondering… how do you know?”

Her question is as poorly timed as ever and they arrive at the dining hall before Edelgard can answer, both ordering whatever the daily special is. Laevatein doesn’t really care what she eats as long as it nourishes her, though she’s begun to grow a bit more fond of spicy food. It makes her mouth burn pleasantly. Once they’ve situated themselves around the table, Laevatein can feel the other’s questioning eyes still trained on her, and she decides to clarify before subjecting herself to further humiliation.

“How do you know if someone is a good or bad person?” It’s not asked from a point of sarcasm or self doubt – she just truly doesn’t know. “My father killed lots of people, and most people said he was a bad person. But I killed lots of people too, and you don’t think I’m a bad person.” 

Absently she picks at her food with her fork. “Your friend Hubert is so skilled on the battlefield, and he always seems to know what the enemies are thinking.” Belatedly she wonders if friend is a bizarre way to describe it, since he seems an adviser of sorts. “He cuts enemies down efficiently… and thinks ahead at the same time. I’ve never seen him hesitate. I admire him.” Laevatein looks up to meet Edelgard’s eyes, for a moment forgetting their positions and titles, just desperate for understanding. “But the other students say he’s scary or evil, and I don’t understand. Isn’t he just doing his duty? Is he a good person?”

The silence following Edelgard’s words is somewhat offputting, but not totally unexpected. Laevatein had been upfront with her about the weak communication skills she possessed, so the heiress will not fault her for it in the time being. There’s only the bustling of students and nearby chatter to fill the silence as they make their way to the dining hall. Edelgard is only one step behind Laevatein, quietly contemplating the best way to phrase the original reason for approaching her.

It’s not that she wishes to underestimate Laevatein’s capabilities of comprehension, but just for these few personal exchanges alone, Edelgard feels like there should be a better way to simplify her otherwise confusing diction. She knows she has a habit of speaking differently, so to say, though she also doesn’t want to look down on her. Edelgard sighs, but then she’s pulled out of her musings when Laevatein speaks. Admittedly, the white-haired youth can only blink in confusion. She decides to stay silent, waiting for Laevatein to clarify because she feels that there’s more to that statement that needs to be filled --

And it’s like that until they sit at the table. Definitely not something she’s used to, but Edelgard trains her patience for things like this. When Laevatein clarifies, a gleam of understanding sparks in her eyes. A gloved hand covers her mouth, stifling a short chuckle when Hubert is called her friend - for lack of better word, she supposes that might be the next best thing to call him.

“Sorry, I’m not laughing at you,” she decides to speak, not wishing for Laevatein to get the wrong idea. “It’s true that Hubert is called scary so often. And the other students say such things without pure malice, I believe.” She hasn’t touched her food yet, leaning back in her seat. “It’s... quite the complicated subject. I didn’t know your father personally and I can only go base off of the information I’ve been given about his regime being overthrown, but...” Her eyes shift over to Laevatein. A good chunk of those rumors revolve around her too, but she won’t delve deeply into it unless Laevatein speaks of it herself. “He liked to destroy and kill for no good reason. He had no real ambitions, he would kill innocent people... that would be some reasons to call someone a bad person.”

She hums. “Although what you do outside a battlefield is a real factor. Rumors I’ve heard about your father are not good, but... you are not like him. The battlefield, we’ve all... killed people.” She pauses at that. Remembering those thieves and everyone’s reactions to their first kills - she shakes her head. Needless blood being spilled is not new. “Anyway, you don’t go out of your way to hurt people. That’s the important thing about you that makes a good person.” She tilts her head. “And beyond that, I’ve seen you doing your best to help others... in your own little way. It might be because you’re desperate to prove yourself, especially since you’re not from Fodlan... but your actions reflect who you are inside.” She shakes her head, laughing slightly. “I’m entirely subjective on Hubert. I’ve known him the longest, so yes, I would say he’s a good person. Underneath that intimidation, he truly does care for others. He just... shows it differently.” Maybe even sparingly.

Edelgard taps one finger on her chin. “And I’d be loathe to trust someone who I thought was bad, wouldn’t I?” Hah, the irony of that. “I hope that answers your question. I’ve gone off on a tangent again. Though I wish for you to know that there is no correct answer for the question you’ve asked me too. It’s something you discover yourself after experiencing more of what this world has to offer.” Then she leans forward, something no short of a grin forming on her face. “Admiring Hubert though? I bet he’d be pleased to hear that. I can only imagine his reaction now.”

[avi-stella]

Gather your resolve and don’t look back.

[ambitionled-blog]

boarshield‌:

“Hmph.” Of course? Does truly not know that people tend to refuse him on a regular basis, or is she willfully jesting with him? If it’s the latter, Felix doesn’t care for it. Felix is nothing if not serious, and even a sardonic attempt at humor he finds distasteful.

But she’s accepted, which is more important than her underlying attitude about the matter. If she wishes to chide him, she can do so after their duel.

Felix swings at her with his own sword as soon as she so graciously gives him an invitation; she blocks his strike with ease, and he continues to attempt to disarm her with his own thrusts and parries. But it becomes increasingly clear that her ability to predict his movements is almost disturbingly perceptive, and he begins to realize that their difference in skill is not in their techniques, but in Edelgard’s analysis of the battle. It’s as though she’s always three steps ahead, somehow, and it’s different from fighting Dimitri, who often overwhelmed him with sheer strength alone.The weight of resolve informs her every moment, and after quite a while of clashing wooden blades, Felix has to accept there’s no way he’ll get the upper hand, despite all his own training.

Eventually Felix lowers the practice sword to his side. He can’t picture the outcome of this match changing no matter what he tries – he hadn’t even gotten close to a decisive strike, much less a moment advantage. “You’re impressive,” he says, not meant as a compliment but as a simple fact. “I will be observing your technique more closely before challenging you again.” While it’s true his pride feels slightly wounded – as it always would with a loss – more than anything he finds himself intrigued by the source of her strength.

When Felix moves, she finds herself intrigued by his reasons for challenging her. It becomes clear after a few exchanges that he won’t be able to get the upper hand in this bout. Not for a lack of skill - it would be foolish to downplay his strength after experiencing it firsthand. However, he’s essentially predictable. There’s a pattern to his blade, which is characteristic of most skills that require consistent practice.

When his movements begin to slow until coming to a complete halt, Edelgard exhales and takes a step back, quietly brushing her bangs out of her eyes. “You were not bad yourself. Despite how you may feel about the outcome of the match, there is potential to your skill.” She tilts her head to the side, eyes sweeping over his expression. Hmm. There’s no real emotion to his face, aside from an expected bitterness that she would probably harbor too if the winner had not been her. When he bluntly expresses his intent to challenge her again, she blinks once before her lips twist into a bemused smile.

“Oh? Unyielding, I see.” He may not be one to sugarcoat words, and she may be smiling, but she hopes that he’s only saying that and he wouldn’t be carrying the challenge out anytime soon. Ferdinand is already enough work for Edelgard, what with his persistent appraisals and desires to one-up her in just about anything she did. If Felix adds himself to that mix, she doesn’t know if she can handle it peacefully (she can imagine Ferdinand right now, probably, appalled that she accepted a sparring match with Felix and not him).

“If I may ask a question,” she says, though there’s no hint of her asking for permission - she’s just going to ask. “Do you train so much because you want to beat someone?” If that’s the case, she can only count a few people he may want to best in battle. “Or is it... perhaps, to protect important things to you?” A likelier answer, and one that she and many others can relate to as well.

[ambitionled-blog]

tacticalschemer‌:

Claude had to pick his words carefully for now, finding a way to keep his suspicions from being obvious while simultaneously trying to figure out if he had reason to be wary of her in the first place. 

“Yeah, you got me. I should be in bed, too, I know. In truth, I was having trouble sleeping after everything that happened. It’s a lot to take in. I’m sure you understand what I mean.”

Edelgard’s desire to get away from him was concerning. Not because it meant much, but because it was inconvenient for him. The more she desired to get away, the less information he was likely to get from her.

“Technically yes, preferably no.” Waiting could put a damper on his plans to get information “Come on, Princess, do you not like talking with me? A laugh once every few years would really do wonders for you.”

“But, all jokes aside, you seem stressed, Princess. I’m worried about you.’” It wasn’t a lie, he was concerned. If his suspicions were wrong then it meant she just wasn’t taking things well. If they were correct, well, then hopefully he got enough details before she decided he was a threat. The former was the preferable situation.

She sighed. At this rate, she may as well go along with him - his persistence was a characteristic of him that was both admirable yet inconvenient. She turned towards Claude, idly resting a hand on her hip. “There’s a time and place for conversations like these. Speaking frankly, you wouldn’t be the first one I’d go to if I wanted to talk about my stress.” If she did at all. They were house leaders, rivals that respected each other. Their obligations were to their house members first in this monastery, and then other people after that.

“However... I appreciate your concern.” She smiled softly, shaking her head. Nonetheless, she cannot dismiss the sentiment - it was nice of him to check up on her, even despite her cold reception. “You’re... not wrong. I can’t stop thinking about what happened to Captain Jeralt and the students.” Edelgard turned her head away now, looking out the windows and frowning. “More than anything, I hope our professor will be able to make a recovery. On top of that..." She desperately wanted revenge. Thales and Monica were never supposed to go that far, to both Jeralt and the students. Vengeance was not part of her ambition, and it was unfitting of a ruler to think like that... so long as she did not lose herself, it would be fine.

Stopping herself, realizing her hands were clenched into fists, she turned her gaze back to Claude and forced herself to relax. “But I’m not the only one who feels that way. I never pegged you as the type to lose sleep. You’re always smiling, so I had thought that you recovered quickly. My assumption was wrong, obviously, so I also wish to ask... how are you faring? And your house?” Students were targeted, so it wouldn’t be strange if everyone started being fearful of what was to come. A tinge of regret comes to spark in her demeanor. “What do you think will happen next?”