At your service

Multimuse, Multiship, Scorpio, INFJ

[nekomoni]

Rules☆Muses☆Mun

(If you are on mobile, you can ask me any time for certain links and I will send them to you)

A minimal selective, multimuse /multiship blog run by Moni (36,she/her) that focuses mainly on Fire emblem characters, but suggestions aren't off the table. Canon and OC's welcome alike.

People under the age of 18 are not accepted, no discussion.

[nekomoni]

you coming back?

Who is this? And I dont think I was ever completely gone. Just needed to take care of things.

[emeldraws]

Limited restock of my Fire Emblem Three Houses Major Arcana deck is now available on my shop! It now comes with a pouch casing ✨

artofemel.bigcartel.com

[nekomoni]

At her acceptance, his posture eased, only slightly, but enough for it to be noticed. The faintest breath left his chest, almost too subtle to be called a sigh.

“I’m glad,” he said simply. “It would be a shame to dine alone after such an engaging evening.”

He glanced at the scattered items on the table, noting how meticulously she moved to gather and straighten them, even this late, even with fatigue pressing around the edges of her. Without a word, he stepped forward and gently lifted a toppled ink bottle and a small stack of maps that had begun to curl at the corners.

“You’ve already done more than enough today. Allow me.”

He didn’t wait for permission, just moved with quiet precision, placing each item where it belonged without disrupting her system. He didn't hover or fuss, simply assisted like someone used to knowing how things should be kept; just as he did with his own sword, or armor, or kingdom.

Once they were finished, he turned to her fully, offering his arm the way a nobleman might at court, not out of pomp, but respectful invitation.

“Shall we, then?”

He nodded once toward the corridor that led to the upper dining wing, where the royal family's private meals were taken. The halls were quiet now, later than most preferred to eat, which meant less formality, fewer eyes, and a moment of relative calm in a place where calm was scarce.

“I suspect Elise exaggerated,” he added lightly as they began to walk, his voice carrying a rare trace of dry humor. “But if dinner truly is ‘scrumptiously divine,’ I’ll owe her a sincere apology. Or at the very least… dessert.”

[tactful-kind-daedra]

The redhead blinked when she noticed him suddenly approaching towards the side, as his arm reached to attend to some of her fallen objects.

"Ahh-- that's really unnecessary, Prince Xander! You really don't--"

Daedra didn't bother to follow through on the claim. The man was already up-righting and straightening out anything he came across, as he moved over her work area. She could clearly tell it would be pointless to dissuade him, not unless she made it seem she was agitated with his interference. She wasn't, of course.

So all she could do was let out a sigh and return to her own tidying. It wouldn't really be productive to force Xander to stop his help while she did nothing but stand and chide him on it. If he worked on the obvious things, Daedra found she could atleast take a bit of time to make sure her paper stacks were correctly ordered, instead of just neatly bundled. It really only took them a few moments to get everything in fine order.

"There, that should do enough..." the petite woman remarked, looking over the neat space. No sense being -that- meticulous if she'd have to use everything in the morning.

There was nothing keeping her back now. Yet, there was still some hesitance on Daedra's part, namely when she saw him offering his arm. It was a very common gesture, but a casual one. One more reserved between nobles and those of high social ranking... not usually between a Crown Prince and his literal war-council.

Maybe he hadn't thought much on it, or hadn't noticed... Daedra wasn't sure. Even is he was usually aware of his words and actions at any given moment, Prince Xander still was entitled to act in any fashion he wished, technically. He was the prince, who could stop him? Atleast no one at present...

But, Daedra didn't want to offend him, as she had probably unintentionally done earlier. So while there was some drawback on her part, the redhead did eventually come forward to slip her arm into the crook of his opposite.

"I suppose it depends who was helping with kitchen duty," Daedra offers from her own amusement. "Though... we might not be getting the meal at it's 'best' now, from how late it is. So I suppose you'll only have to take Lady Elise's word for truth, at the moment!"

[nekomoni]

Her touch at his arm was tentative, but he didn’t react to it with surprise, because for him, the gesture had been instinctual. Not a calculated move, nor a flirtation. Simply habit, deeply ingrained from years of etiquette, court formality… and perhaps, a quiet desire to extend respect in the only way he knew how.

He did, however, note the slight delay before she accepted. He didn’t comment on it, he wouldn’t, but he filed it away, the way he always did when someone reacted differently to him than expected.

They walked in a comfortable silence through the wide stone corridors, the flicker of torches lining the walls casting soft, golden light over polished black and purple Nohrian decor. The doors to the private dining room stood open by the time they arrived, a quiet hum of warmth spilling from within, candlelight, muted chatter from distant staff, and the faintest scent of seasoned meat and freshly baked bread.

Xander gently slipped away from her side to step ahead, and as they reached the table, he moved to pull her chair out, no hesitation, no need for ceremony. It was simply what he did.

“Please,” he said, his voice low but courteous, “allow me.”

Once she was seated, he took his place opposite her, not at the long head of the table, but nearby, close enough for easy conversation, respectful enough to preserve her comfort.

Then, at last, he responded to her earlier remark, hands folded lightly atop the table.

“While I admit I have particular tastes at times,” he began with a small smile, “I learned early on that being overly selective is not a noble trait.”

His tone remained gentle, conversational.

“It is not the kitchen staff’s fault that neither of us arrived in time for the food to be at its best. I’ve no doubt it will still be delicious.”

He paused slightly, then added with the quiet weight of someone who truly meant it:

“Besides, the best meals do not always come from the food itself, but from the company they’re shared with.”

He let that sit for a moment before continuing, eyes briefly drifting to the glowing sconces on the wall.

“I must confess… I eat alone more often than not. By the time I realize I’m hungry, the halls are quiet. Dinner is long over. It’s one of the few things Elise will scold me for without any fear of consequence.”

A rare, amused breath escaped him.

“Being dragged from my desk by her is not something I resist anymore. I’ve come to treasure those interruptions.”

He looked at Daedra again.

“And I imagine tonight will be no different.”

[nekomoni]

Mona stopped mid-step, blinking in surprise when the girl stepped in front of the others with a blade drawn.

“…Eh?” Her fingers dimmed, the healing spell faltering for a beat.

There was no fear on her face, just stunned confusion. She looked between Lawrence and the girl protectively guarding him, then up to the one calling reassurance from the strange creature above.

“I-I was trying to help you. Heal you!” she stammered, brows furrowing ever so slightly. “You… rude person…”

It would have been a scolding, if there was an ounce of bite in her voice. But there wasn’t. Just bafflement, and maybe a tiny sting of offense.

Mona sighed softly, clearly deciding not to dwell on it, and let her magic return to her hands. With care, she began healing the group in the order Lawrence suggested: Brooke first, then Lily, Carmen, Darlene, and only then Lawrence.

Despite everything, her hands were steady, and her magic was gentle, soothing, warm, and efficient.

As she finally stepped back, she tilted her head slightly and asked with genuine curiosity, “So… is it okay to ask who you all are now? Where you came from—and what the heck just happened?”

[inaudible-summoner]

Brooke just stared at her. "I'ma protect my family, my mom was taken out by a summoner using green magic like that, so forgive me for protecting my remaining family." She'd roll her eyes, this was a stranger asking for trust in a situation where she was an unknown.

Each member would take the healing, even the ones already safe and not needing healing to foster trust. Between the group.

Once she asked her question out would walk Andrew. "WHEW! that was close, thought Ava had us this time, but it was strange to see them run...what's going on?" He'd look to see the strange new woman and not just her but other people around them.

A woman in white and a man in black and blue both with green hair approached. Lawrence would stand up and approach them just in case they'd try anything, alongside Carmen, she seemed to speak for him when he was tired. After a talk he'd reproach the girl "...You wanted to know why we're here, we should probably go inside...I'll explain."

They'd bring Mona into the room that the person Seteth, Rhea and another green haired girl along with a blonde woman with a gnarly sword, Catherine.

"Everyone here? ...You ready?" He'd turn to Mona.

[nekomoni]

The sharp reply from Brooke made Mona pause, her lips parting as she took in the reasoning behind the hostility.

“…Oh.”

That made far more sense. The tension in her shoulders softened slightly. There was no apology spoken aloud, but her expression clearly shifted, less insulted now, and more understanding, even a little regretful.

When Andrew spoke up, Mona turned her head with a curious tilt. He had a loud presence. She instinctively raised a hand in a small wave, uncertain if she was acknowledging him or just trying to politely react to the sudden shift in tone.

Her gaze then shifted naturally to the more familiar faces: Seteth, Rhea, and the others who represented the heart of Garreg Mach. Unlike the strangers, they brought no wariness. Only structure. Routine. And that, to Mona, meant safety.

She followed the group without hesitation, her steps light and curious. Once inside the chamber, she stood quietly with her hands folded behind her back, lightly rocking on her heels as she tried not to stare too obviously at Catherine’s sword or the presence of so many strange green-haired people.

But when Lawrence addressed her, she snapped out of her thoughts and gave a small but certain nod.

“Yes. I’m ready.”

She didn’t interrupt, didn’t push with questions again—just waited with wide eyes and an eager, open mind.

[tactful-kind-daedra]

What Flower Are You?

Stargazer Lily

One word to describe the stargazer lily: gorgeous. Because they bloom toward the sky, they are said to give a message to always pursue our dreams, towards a higher goal and never leaving hope. They also stand for persistence and success. Whatever you’re working towards, you’ll definitely achieve. It’s in your blood. Also, you’re an iconic pink princess.

Tagged by @viciousrocket Tagging: WHOEVER WANTS GO GO GO STEAL IT

[nekomoni]

Stargazer Lily

One word to describe the stargazer lily: gorgeous. Because they bloom toward the sky, they are said to give a message to always pursue our dreams, towards a higher goal and never leaving hope. They also stand for persistence and success. Whatever you’re working towards, you’ll definitely achieve. It’s in your blood. Also, you’re an iconic pink princess.

[nekomoni]

Despite the explosion and crackling aftermath of summoned thunder, Mona did not retreat indoors like some others might have. Quite the opposite, she hurried forward the moment the threat vanished.

Her boots made soft, deliberate steps against the grass as she neared the strangers. Her eyes first scanned the sky, then the beast’s fading lightning trail, and finally, the collapsed figures on the ground. They looked exhausted. And one was clearly injured.

“…They’re not from here,” she murmured to herself, but the observation held no hostility.

Instead, Mona raised a hand slowly, not to attack, but to show she meant no harm. A gentle, glowing shimmer began to pool in her palm.

“If you’re leaving, fine, but not while limping,” she said, voice soft but firm as she glanced at Lawrence and Brooke. “You fought. You’re hurt. That doesn’t need to stay that way.”

A faint spell began to form in her hands, healing light. She kept her posture calm, standing a little ahead of the others approaching from the monastery side.

“May I?” she asked them gently, as if healing strangers who fell from another world and summoned monsters was just another Tuesday at Garreg Mach.

[inaudible-summoner]

As she'd approach Lawrence would sidle away from her green hand, and at that same moment his cousin would notice and firm her grip on her knife.

"He doesn't want it, and frankly we don't know you!" She'd move infront of both Lawrence, Darlene and Lily just in case, but she was clearly fatigued as well.

"Its okay—!" Carmen called out over Legs-O-lot's side, poking her head over. "Inua doesn't sense any malicious energy from her, and I'll reflect it if it's dangerous." The young girl reassured them her summon's eyes on the newcomer, she'd never let anything happen to her favorite people.

"....Okay...." Lawrence nodded, letting her heal the group. "But...heal me last....Lily, Brooke....everyone needs it." He'd request to the woman.

"Looks like we got other company showing up too." Andrew called from Legs-o-lot's intercom.

[nekomoni]

Mona stopped mid-step, blinking in surprise when the girl stepped in front of the others with a blade drawn.

“…Eh?” Her fingers dimmed, the healing spell faltering for a beat.

There was no fear on her face, just stunned confusion. She looked between Lawrence and the girl protectively guarding him, then up to the one calling reassurance from the strange creature above.

“I-I was trying to help you. Heal you!” she stammered, brows furrowing ever so slightly. “You… rude person…”

It would have been a scolding, if there was an ounce of bite in her voice. But there wasn’t. Just bafflement, and maybe a tiny sting of offense.

Mona sighed softly, clearly deciding not to dwell on it, and let her magic return to her hands. With care, she began healing the group in the order Lawrence suggested: Brooke first, then Lily, Carmen, Darlene, and only then Lawrence.

Despite everything, her hands were steady, and her magic was gentle, soothing, warm, and efficient.

As she finally stepped back, she tilted her head slightly and asked with genuine curiosity, “So… is it okay to ask who you all are now? Where you came from—and what the heck just happened?”

[nekomoni]

“As it happens…” he began, adjusting the angle of his gloves with a small, idle motion, “I’ve forgotten to eat for most of the day. Worry tends to keep hunger at bay.”

His tone was casual, perhaps too casual for someone who'd just spent an hour locked in strategic conflict, but his eyes remained steady on her, unreadable yet sincere.

“If you wouldn’t mind,” he added carefully, “I’d join you for dinner.”

Then, as though catching himself, he offered a polite bow of the head.

“Of course, I understand if you’d prefer to dine alone. Your off-time is your own, and I’ve no intention of intruding. If my presence would only add to your stress… then please, forget I said anything.”

He paused just long enough for her to see he meant it, even if a part of him hoped she wouldn’t refuse.

“It’s merely a thought,” he finished quietly. “And, admittedly, not the worst idea Elise has ever given me.”

[tactful-kind-daedra]

With the heavier portions of the conversation put to rest for the evening, Daedra turned to the task she'd spoken of earlier; tidying her work place and materials. She'd assumed with the assurances given, Xander would have taken his leave of her. Now assured of her loyalty and ethics to aid him, he'd be off to his next important task. There was always something of great importance awaiting him as Crown Prince, or so that atleast appeared as the claim.

Yet, he remained.

Daedra had just gathered all her parchment sheets together. They were out of order, but she would have to sort through them come the morrow anyway, so she merely settled with bundling them in her hands, tapping the bottom on the table to get the pieces of thick paper to all shift down into their places. The petite woman just caught his voice again during her final tap, once again turning to stare at him with confused and wide eyes.

"Pardon?" Her voice was quiet, the question unsure. As if she thought she misunderstood.

"No.... I usually prefer company during meal hours," she spoke up quickly enough to reply. It wasn't a lie. In truth, Daedra preferred the company of others whenever she could get it. She had enough solitude when she worked, when she planned. She had 'too much' personal time, it felt like at times....

However, what did surprise her was his own questioning of it. Surely he would prefer the company of his family to her, when he could get it. Ah... but perhaps that was the issue. It was a bit later than the usual meal serving time, as they'd spent quite a bit more time discussing topics of war and strategies.

Still, the logical part of her brain told her to politely decline. It would be a matter of conflicting stations and hierarchy but.... based on how the previous conversations between them went earlier---

"If... If you'd like my company, Prince Xander," a pause, as she seemed to be centering her thoughts a bit. "I'd be quite honored to join you. Not out of obligation, of course."

The words were still quiet, still holding the tiniest hint of respectful reverence. Similar to how she usually spoke to him. Yet, the smile on her lips was not forced or performative - merely small and casual.

[nekomoni]

At her acceptance, his posture eased, only slightly, but enough for it to be noticed. The faintest breath left his chest, almost too subtle to be called a sigh.

“I’m glad,” he said simply. “It would be a shame to dine alone after such an engaging evening.”

He glanced at the scattered items on the table, noting how meticulously she moved to gather and straighten them, even this late, even with fatigue pressing around the edges of her. Without a word, he stepped forward and gently lifted a toppled ink bottle and a small stack of maps that had begun to curl at the corners.

“You’ve already done more than enough today. Allow me.”

He didn’t wait for permission, just moved with quiet precision, placing each item where it belonged without disrupting her system. He didn't hover or fuss, simply assisted like someone used to knowing how things should be kept; just as he did with his own sword, or armor, or kingdom.

Once they were finished, he turned to her fully, offering his arm the way a nobleman might at court, not out of pomp, but respectful invitation.

“Shall we, then?”

He nodded once toward the corridor that led to the upper dining wing, where the royal family's private meals were taken. The halls were quiet now, later than most preferred to eat, which meant less formality, fewer eyes, and a moment of relative calm in a place where calm was scarce.

“I suspect Elise exaggerated,” he added lightly as they began to walk, his voice carrying a rare trace of dry humor. “But if dinner truly is ‘scrumptiously divine,’ I’ll owe her a sincere apology. Or at the very least… dessert.”

[nekomoni]

Mona was in the midst of a most pressing internal debate, whether to squeeze in a brief nap before her next class or wander toward the dining hall for something sweet, when a shimmer in the sky caught her eye.

She blinked.

Then stared.

A tear in the air itself had spat out a group of strangers, and not quietly either. They landed with surprising coordination just beyond the training field, in front of the academy gates, where things only spiraled from odd to outright insane.

"...Did that girl just summon a two-headed beast from a cloud...?" Mona muttered aloud, hand instinctively moving toward her weapon, tarot like cards for magic.

Her feet moved before her thoughts could catch up. Drawing closer, she saw not just monsters, but summoners? An active battle? Inside Garreg Mach’s walls?

"This is either a mistake... or a diplomatic incident waiting to happen."

Eyes narrowed, Mona slipped behind one of the nearby archways for partial cover, her fingers dancing in slow rhythm, ready to call upon her magic if the fight spilled too close. But for now, she watched, the gears in her mind spinning fast.

She had wanted excitement between lectures. But this?

"...Why do I feel like Professor Hanneman's going to blame me for this somehow?"

[inaudible-summoner]

They traded blow after blow.

"Slither sting!" Brooke called out using it's stinger to poison one of the guards so he couldn't run, this would make it easier for the group to question them when done.

The group fought hard defending each other but again Ava's summon was deadly powerful, and she almost finished things off if one of the fae guard soldiers grabbed her attention.

"Paladin Ava, there seems to be people coming out of that fort ahead. We do not have the numbers to deal with both this group and a whole fort, I suggest a tactical retreat."

Ava sighed, but they were right, they could use their summons's powers to observe the group if they also flee. "Very well...Paluma, there are people coming out the fort, give them our salutations." in response the two headed beast would laugh in a deep haunting voice and a large bolt of lightning would strike between the school before all the fae guard vanished with the thunderclap.

"Guys...I don't sense them in the area anymore." Carmen called out from the Deck of Andrew's summon. Her own summons creepy eyes darting around.

Lawrence however would drop to the ground alongside Lily and Brooke, tired from their battle.

"Deberías haberme dejado pelear también." Darlene came out to help the fighters up, the kindly mom that adopted them as well.

"You fighting wouldn't change anything...Ava is strong and your fear of lightning...we couldn't do that to you." Lawrence responded to her, but then noticed a presence, multiple people approaching. Uh oh. "We don't want any trouble, we...were just leaving."

[nekomoni]

Despite the explosion and crackling aftermath of summoned thunder, Mona did not retreat indoors like some others might have. Quite the opposite, she hurried forward the moment the threat vanished.

Her boots made soft, deliberate steps against the grass as she neared the strangers. Her eyes first scanned the sky, then the beast’s fading lightning trail, and finally, the collapsed figures on the ground. They looked exhausted. And one was clearly injured.

“…They’re not from here,” she murmured to herself, but the observation held no hostility.

Instead, Mona raised a hand slowly, not to attack, but to show she meant no harm. A gentle, glowing shimmer began to pool in her palm.

“If you’re leaving, fine, but not while limping,” she said, voice soft but firm as she glanced at Lawrence and Brooke. “You fought. You’re hurt. That doesn’t need to stay that way.”

A faint spell began to form in her hands, healing light. She kept her posture calm, standing a little ahead of the others approaching from the monastery side.

“May I?” she asked them gently, as if healing strangers who fell from another world and summoned monsters was just another Tuesday at Garreg Mach.

[nelliasummersun]

improvement work from https://www.tumblr.com/nelliasummersun/722212093386014720/2023-fe3h-false-promise-of-a-reward-hint-she?source=share

[nekomoni]

Yes, it's my OC Mona <3

[nekomoni]

“Your desire to ease my path is appreciated, but not necessary,” he said evenly, though not unkindly. “All I ask is your best judgment and sharpest mind. Everything else, I will find a way to bear.”

Then, a faint furrow returned to his brow.

“…But if it’s Iago who’s obstructing your work, say the word.”

His tone dipped into something colder and controlled, but unmistakably sharp.

“If he is interfering with our ability to plan effectively, then I see him not as a colleague, but a liability to the kingdom. And liabilities, tactician, are my responsibility to address.”

There was a quiet moment afterward, where his gaze lingered on her, not with suspicion, but intent. He was giving her space to speak freely. To ask, should she want it.

But then, almost like brushing dust from a polished surface, he softened again.

“That being said…” His arms slowly uncrossed, and the corner of his mouth shifted in the smallest, rarest of smiles.

“A tactician is only as capable as they are rested. Have you taken a break at all? Bathed? Eaten?” A pause. “Elise informed me that today’s meal is, quote...‘utterly scrumptiously divine.’ I haven’t the faintest idea what that entails, but I suspect you’d enjoy it more than parchment and ink.”

There was a quiet glint in his eye. A small, princely kindness, measured, but unmistakably genuine.

“You’ve done more than enough for this day. Let Nohr rest in your hands tomorrow. But for tonight, at least let it rest without you.”

[tactful-kind-daedra]

"It's not that--- it's..."

Daedra let the words die on her lips. She was unsure how to continue, and thought perhaps it best to just keep silent. Iago was always a problem; he'd been a hinderance since the day she'd been brought on. He'd probably been a problem for all the royal siblings long before that. Yet... he was just too involved centrally to the grand scheme of things.

Daedra could work around him because he was thought too little of her, too arrogant in his own place and pursuits. She fears he might catch wind if there was sudden pressure on him, namely from the person who should have been in charge...

"No, Prince Xander... things are suitable as they are," she said, bowing her head at his offer.

Daedra could predict his actions and motives when he was assured and comfortable. She was not sure how low he could stoop when he was pressed into a corner. There were bigger things to focus on than Iago.

His sudden questioning over her personal welfare did catch her a bit off guard, though. Even if it really shouldn't have, given the Prince's rather compassionate nature. It wasn't him so much asking, but rather -how- he asked it. Daedra jerked a bit in surprise, blinking wide eyes as the faintest blush hit her cheeks.

"Oh---Oh, um... well, I was in the middle of packing everything up for the evening," Daedra explained, before turning her eyes back to her work table. Remembering the mess of papers from her surprise earlier. It seemed it had knocked over a few others things too...ahhh.

"I'll be sure to make my way to the dining hall then! Once I straighten up, of course. That is a chore I refuse to ever look though, no matter how tired I am," the redhead explained with a smile. "I wouldn't be very efficient or professional with a messy work area."

[nekomoni]

“As it happens…” he began, adjusting the angle of his gloves with a small, idle motion, “I’ve forgotten to eat for most of the day. Worry tends to keep hunger at bay.”

His tone was casual, perhaps too casual for someone who'd just spent an hour locked in strategic conflict, but his eyes remained steady on her, unreadable yet sincere.

“If you wouldn’t mind,” he added carefully, “I’d join you for dinner.”

Then, as though catching himself, he offered a polite bow of the head.

“Of course, I understand if you’d prefer to dine alone. Your off-time is your own, and I’ve no intention of intruding. If my presence would only add to your stress… then please, forget I said anything.”

He paused just long enough for her to see he meant it, even if a part of him hoped she wouldn’t refuse.

“It’s merely a thought,” he finished quietly. “And, admittedly, not the worst idea Elise has ever given me.”

[inaudible-summoner]

Garreg Mach's new class

closed rp with @nekomoni

Of course they attracted the worst of the fae guards, some of the officials were now after them, and Ava that one was chasing them with a small team of fae guard soldiers.

"...You had to blast their dumb airship...." Lawrence stated on top, before looking forward into the purple and pink woods. "Head into that portal, we can at least stay somewhere else till they....lose interest."

"You got it boss." They were riding Andrew's summon as they fled, Ava was no summoner to underestimate- and would slip into another world.

---- Elsewhere ----

The group fell out the sky right above what looked like a giant castle, and luckily didn't damage anything. Landing infront of this school they'd start fleeing once more till Lawrence jumped off to fight, accompanied by Lily, the group's golden retriever.

"Lawrence, Lily- don't!" A girl with brown hair and blue eyes looked over the side, and finally, the fae guard would surround them, but mostly Ava would take the lead.

"You should of left well enough alone summoners, now I'll bring your heads to Master Wren." The young woman took out her long blade. "Paluma!" and right alongside here was a beast with two heads aloft in a cloud.

"JUNO" Lawrence called out, and Lily would bark summoning her summon as well., the pair ready to fight these people for their lives infront of this massive castle. And they seemed to be attracting onlookers.

[nekomoni]

Mona was in the midst of a most pressing internal debate, whether to squeeze in a brief nap before her next class or wander toward the dining hall for something sweet, when a shimmer in the sky caught her eye.

She blinked.

Then stared.

A tear in the air itself had spat out a group of strangers, and not quietly either. They landed with surprising coordination just beyond the training field, in front of the academy gates, where things only spiraled from odd to outright insane.

"...Did that girl just summon a two-headed beast from a cloud...?" Mona muttered aloud, hand instinctively moving toward her weapon, tarot like cards for magic.

Her feet moved before her thoughts could catch up. Drawing closer, she saw not just monsters, but summoners? An active battle? Inside Garreg Mach’s walls?

"This is either a mistake... or a diplomatic incident waiting to happen."

Eyes narrowed, Mona slipped behind one of the nearby archways for partial cover, her fingers dancing in slow rhythm, ready to call upon her magic if the fight spilled too close. But for now, she watched, the gears in her mind spinning fast.

She had wanted excitement between lectures. But this?

"...Why do I feel like Professor Hanneman's going to blame me for this somehow?"

[nekomoni]

He shook his head gently, just once.

“…Then what would be the point of having a tactician, if I simply overruled every decision myself?”

His voice wasn’t sharp, but there was a calm conviction in it—an almost rhetorical weight, as if he’d already answered the question before it left his lips.

“The reason I asked for you.... kept you... was not to have my thoughts echoed back at me. I need someone who can see what I cannot. Someone who will tell me what is most beneficial, even when it contradicts what I want.”

He looked at her plainly, no princely airs or strategic mask in sight.

“I don’t need to like every decision. And you don’t need to be the one to make it easier on me. I only need to know that it’s right.”

A quiet pause, then his expression softened ever so slightly.

“And if there is anything you are in need of to make better decisions or plans, you tell me, and no one else. I will do what must be done to get it to you.”

His tone became firm again, not cold, but resolute.

“An assistant? Consider it done. A secure chamber free of interruption? It will be arranged. I am prepared to pay any price for your strategies to reach their fullest potential.”

Then, after a breath:

“But do not mistake that for expecting perfection. I don’t want flawless execution, I want the best outcome we can manage. That’s all I’ve ever asked.”

He looked her in the eye, steady and sincere.

“So… is there anything you need?”

[tactful-kind-daedra]

"In the same manner that a Royal Advisor is there to advise, but it is ultimately the monarch's choice to follow said advise or not," Daedra replied simply. Her expression softened though, not trying to brush away his gestures. "I simply meant it as an assurance, Prince Xander," she told him. "Even if you turn it down in multiple successions, I promise I will still continue to offer you the best formations and strategies to the full of my current ability. However, I know very little of the expectations of royal families and ruling kingdoms, other than the basics. I simply offer the choice to you."

Daedra did have some understanding of his plight as a royal. While Xander and Chrom were almost polar opposites, their expectations as leaders were still the same. There were many times her close friend had confided in her that he didn't wish for every decision to weigh on his shoulders. That he regretted not sharing the burden with his older sibling when he'd been younger. Sometimes, one just wished to be told what was the right path... the only path. Even for a brief moment. To not be held back with indecision.

But, as with Chrom, Daedra could not simply offer such a thing to either of them. It was simply not in her ability to do so, atleast not without blind assurance. She respected their future reign too much to risk tumbling it, even for their own comfort. However, what she could offer them... could promise with confidence... Daedra would.

"Were I able to, I would make your choices easier, Prince Xander," she told him directly, and honestly. "However, like you... I am also incapable of perfection, despite the expectations placed upon us both. I know it would be easier to simply state otherwise but... I respect you too highly," she admitted. "I won't tell you a falsity, even one as simple as saying a plan is 'perfect'."

She appreciated he seemed to have similar expectations. Not that she'd take it as an excuse to allow mistakes for herself...At his questioning, Daedra calmly shook her head with shut eyes.

"No, I feel I can still manage as I am," she said. "The work load has increased; Iago isn't making it easy. However, I worry that such a change as an assistant or new chambers might draw unwanted attention. I will not push myself to where I can not handle things..."

[nekomoni]

“Your desire to ease my path is appreciated, but not necessary,” he said evenly, though not unkindly. “All I ask is your best judgment and sharpest mind. Everything else, I will find a way to bear.”

Then, a faint furrow returned to his brow.

“…But if it’s Iago who’s obstructing your work, say the word.”

His tone dipped into something colder and controlled, but unmistakably sharp.

“If he is interfering with our ability to plan effectively, then I see him not as a colleague, but a liability to the kingdom. And liabilities, tactician, are my responsibility to address.”

There was a quiet moment afterward, where his gaze lingered on her, not with suspicion, but intent. He was giving her space to speak freely. To ask, should she want it.

But then, almost like brushing dust from a polished surface, he softened again.

“That being said…” His arms slowly uncrossed, and the corner of his mouth shifted in the smallest, rarest of smiles.

“A tactician is only as capable as they are rested. Have you taken a break at all? Bathed? Eaten?” A pause. “Elise informed me that today’s meal is, quote...‘utterly scrumptiously divine.’ I haven’t the faintest idea what that entails, but I suspect you’d enjoy it more than parchment and ink.”

There was a quiet glint in his eye. A small, princely kindness, measured, but unmistakably genuine.

“You’ve done more than enough for this day. Let Nohr rest in your hands tomorrow. But for tonight, at least let it rest without you.”

[nekomoni]

He listened to every word, never once interrupting. Not even when she spoke the very truth he feared most, that no matter how hard he tried to walk the line between prince and brother, man and monarch, the scales would always tilt under the weight of duty.

When she posed her question 'what would you say if they asked you not to defend them' he didn’t hesitate.

“I would do whatever is within my power to save them. No matter the cost to myself.”

His answer was quiet, but unwavering. He knew she already knew that. It wasn’t a revelation, but a confirmation. One he needed to say aloud.

A sigh left him next. Not defeated, but… tired.

“‘Act in the way that makes you most comfortable,’ you said.” He repeated the words almost absently, like he was still chewing on the taste of them. “But comfort is a luxury I surrendered long ago. As Crown Prince, I don’t have the freedom to be comfortable.”

He looked at her again. This time, his expression wasn’t cold or confused, it was resolved.

“If I had my choice, I would be compassionate always. For my siblings. For Nohr. For you. But if being the hardened heir is what ensures their safety… your safety… then I will choose that path a thousand times over.”

He straightened then, posture crisp, like armor settling back into place around him.

“I may not be invincible, Daedra. But I can be what Nohr needs, no matter how heavy that burden becomes.”

[tactful-kind-daedra]

Xander had assumed correctly, that his response came as no surprise to her. Hence why Daedra barely reacted, though it still was leaving them in a bit of a bind. How did they proceed from here?

Her lips inadvertently flattened when he mentioned -her- safety specifically. She could only assume it as a means of keeping a valuable asset on their side. Iago was wholly unreliable to them; detrimental even. Even if she was relatively replaceable, there was no guarantee.

"If it were put to everyone's comfort... I don't think anyone would be here willingly," was all she could offer. Not that it was much comfort. "We're all doing what we think is best. We can only make those decisions when we are faced with them in the moment. It helps no one to look back and think over what could have or should have been..."

It was advice to had to force down on herself especially. She could make all the preparations she wished, but there were always moments that caught her by surprise. Ones she had to make a call on just by what was before her eyes.

Atleast for now, Daedra felt confidant she wouldn't have to worry on Xander acting in a too brash manner. Atleast from how his wording hinted a new resolve for him. It made her feel a little more confidant atleast.

"Thank you, Prince Xander," the redhead bowed her head in respect. "Though I said it with frustration, my offer still stands available. You're always free to change my plans and formations as you see fit. I trust you'd have a reason, and I take no insult. Atleast now you can hopefully understand my reasoning for things a bit better."

She still have a miracle worth of battles to win them... but one at a time. They still had quite a ways to cover before they 'won the war'.

[nekomoni]

He shook his head gently, just once.

“…Then what would be the point of having a tactician, if I simply overruled every decision myself?”

His voice wasn’t sharp, but there was a calm conviction in it—an almost rhetorical weight, as if he’d already answered the question before it left his lips.

“The reason I asked for you.... kept you... was not to have my thoughts echoed back at me. I need someone who can see what I cannot. Someone who will tell me what is most beneficial, even when it contradicts what I want.”

He looked at her plainly, no princely airs or strategic mask in sight.

“I don’t need to like every decision. And you don’t need to be the one to make it easier on me. I only need to know that it’s right.”

A quiet pause, then his expression softened ever so slightly.

“And if there is anything you are in need of to make better decisions or plans, you tell me, and no one else. I will do what must be done to get it to you.”

His tone became firm again, not cold, but resolute.

“An assistant? Consider it done. A secure chamber free of interruption? It will be arranged. I am prepared to pay any price for your strategies to reach their fullest potential.”

Then, after a breath:

“But do not mistake that for expecting perfection. I don’t want flawless execution, I want the best outcome we can manage. That’s all I’ve ever asked.”

He looked her in the eye, steady and sincere.

“So… is there anything you need?”

[nekomoni]

He watched her, watched the way her words stumbled and collided in frustration, the way her shoulders slumped when she finally gave up trying to package her thoughts into something clean or acceptable. It was not a sight he often saw from Daedra, and it struck him harder than any battlefield wound might have.

There was no judgment in his expression, just thoughtfulness.

“…Then how do you want me to act?”

His voice was calm, sincere. Not cold, not commanding. Just… searching.

“I don’t mean that as a challenge. I genuinely want to understand.” He took a slow step closer, then another, stopping just short of her seat so he wasn’t looming. “Because I know what I’ve been taught to be. I know what I want to be. But it seems neither are what’s needed in this moment.”

Then came the quieter question. His brows furrowed slightly, but not with hurt, only curiosity:

“And why is it,” he asked gently, “that my siblings chose to come to you… but not to me?”

He tilted his head slightly.

“Is it because they don’t believe I’d listen? Or because they thought you would find the right words, when they couldn’t?”

He didn’t sound offended, more... thoughtful. Reflective. And behind it all, there was that same thread: I just want to do what’s right. Tell me what that is.

[tactful-kind-daedra]

She watched him from the corner of her eye for a long while. Even as he questioned her on what his future actions should be. Normally, the Nohrian Prince was a hard individual to read, atleast concerning what he was really thinking. There were many facets to him generally but.... not so much in this one moment.

Daedra still took her time to answer. "The only way I wish for you to act, is in the way that makes you most comfortable," was her response. "Whether it be hardened Heir of Nohr, or the compassionate elder brother and prince. Regardless of either, your choice must be what you can live wish. Choose so what when you look back on your actions, regardless if they were successful or not, tat you are confidant you did not compromise your integrity."

It was not Daedra's role to tell people who they should or should not be. She was merely the tactician... a planner. Some might think of her as some sort of 'puppetmaster' in the grand scheme but... she refused. She could only tell people where to go... how to win. That was all.

When he asked about his siblings, Daedra couldn't help but blink her eyes in confusion. That reason should have been obvious.

"They asked me... because I'm the one that could keep you away from the most dangerous pitfalls. To ensure you and your retainers had clear escape route and reinforcements."

They were asking her to perform a miracle, in reality...

"Could you blame them, Prince Xander?" Daedra tried to make the question sound sincere. To pull any reprimand or belittling from her tone. She was simply trying to get him to understand. "If Prince Leo or Lady Camilla came to you and asked you not to defend them-- to not come to their aid because of how it would endanger you if the situation was dire enough.... what would you tell them?"

They put it to her to keep account for everyone. To keep everyone guarded and defended as best possible, and if she couldn't... to know the hierarchy of who to prioritize.

Did she listen to the man who had the most ruling power our of any?

Or did she follow those who made up the majority in the decision?

Daedra was doing her best to somehow find some path right down the middle. It was getting hard to keep all her defense towers from crumpling around her lately.

[nekomoni]

He listened to every word, never once interrupting. Not even when she spoke the very truth he feared most, that no matter how hard he tried to walk the line between prince and brother, man and monarch, the scales would always tilt under the weight of duty.

When she posed her question 'what would you say if they asked you not to defend them' he didn’t hesitate.

“I would do whatever is within my power to save them. No matter the cost to myself.”

His answer was quiet, but unwavering. He knew she already knew that. It wasn’t a revelation, but a confirmation. One he needed to say aloud.

A sigh left him next. Not defeated, but… tired.

“‘Act in the way that makes you most comfortable,’ you said.” He repeated the words almost absently, like he was still chewing on the taste of them. “But comfort is a luxury I surrendered long ago. As Crown Prince, I don’t have the freedom to be comfortable.”

He looked at her again. This time, his expression wasn’t cold or confused, it was resolved.

“If I had my choice, I would be compassionate always. For my siblings. For Nohr. For you. But if being the hardened heir is what ensures their safety… your safety… then I will choose that path a thousand times over.”

He straightened then, posture crisp, like armor settling back into place around him.

“I may not be invincible, Daedra. But I can be what Nohr needs, no matter how heavy that burden becomes.”

[nekomoni]

He listened, truly listened, even as the words grew harder to hear. He remained quiet, arms crossing slowly over his chest as he absorbed each point. Daedra spoke carefully, but the meaning was unmistakable. Her concern was valid. Yet it unsettled him deeply.

“So… what you are saying,” he began, his voice calm but carrying that rare, sharpened edge of frustration beneath it, “is that my role now demands less… kindness.”

His gaze flicked downward, to the floor between them, as if the weight of the idea needed grounding. “In other words, you want me to be more like my father.”

He didn’t speak the name Garon, not fully. It hung between the lines like a blade yet unsheathed.

“I can do that. Without hesitation, even. I’ve lived under his example long enough to mimic the mold.” A pause. “But my siblings, Corrin especially, have made it clear that doing so would be a betrayal of the man they believe I am. Of the brother they want me to be.”

His jaw tensed. His voice dropped slightly.

“And if you know anything of me, then you know this: I would rather wound myself a hundred times over than hurt the ones I love. Disappointment... is not something I carry lightly.”

A sigh escaped him then, frustrated, weary, honest.

“So here I stand. You ask for rigidity, order. They ask for mercy. Both sides claim to support me. Yet both pull in opposite directions.”

He looked at her again, earnestly, if tiredly.

“Very well, then. For the sake of the upcoming battle, I will step back from… gentleness. If the battlefield demands a colder hand, I will wield it. That is my duty.”

A breath, measured.

“…And after, perhaps, there will be time enough to remember how to be soft again.”

[tactful-kind-daedra]

Was that what she was saying? Daedra was unsure, as her expression faltered with her unease. And despite her uncertainty, she spoke up, only to immediately regret it.

"....Y-Yes---NO! No...I--"

Frowning, she turned her gaze away again. The minute her first response left her lips, Daedra KNEW is was the incorrect reply. From the awful sensation in left on her tongue, in her teeth, everything in told her: no, that is not right. It will never be right...

They were back to where they started. With no ease in the difficulty in sight. What was she supposed to tell him? She had to explain something to him, but anything other than... act like a tyrant overlord king.

"It's not that, Prince Xander... I--" Once again, the words died away. She could feel her unease turning to frustration. Not at the Nohrian Prince persay, but perhaps herself... the situation... the need for this explanation.

"I----I don't know," a resounding, weary sigh of defeat, before the tactician dropped unceremoniously back into her chair. She didn't care how uncouth is appeared, as she tried to think of what to say.

"I don't want to ask that of you... That's not fair." Neither was war, but there they were.

"... The fact of the matter is... no matter what comes of anything in the upcoming battles, no matter what: you must be the one to survive, Prince Xander." Daedra turned her head up again, eyes facing him for that he could not argue.

"I know you'd prefer to act as a shield over a sword... I know you want to protect what means most to you. I understand that.... However, we also have to consider protecting the future. Your siblings...." Daedra was quiet for a moment. "Lord Corrin, Prince Leo, Lady Camilla... even Lady Elise.... All of them have personally sought me out to discuss the matter. Their concern. Each one of them asked the same request of me: do not let Prince Xander fall."

They also had asked her not to speak of it to him. She had tried to keep her word; to uphold their trust. However... she didn't know what else to say, how else to explain it. To make him understand.

Daedra didn't want him to dash away all his morals. To turn against how he wished to be, for the sake of being someone worse. Someone harsher. Maybe if she were better at all this, she could have found a cleaner solution, but this was the best she could manage.

[nekomoni]

He watched her, watched the way her words stumbled and collided in frustration, the way her shoulders slumped when she finally gave up trying to package her thoughts into something clean or acceptable. It was not a sight he often saw from Daedra, and it struck him harder than any battlefield wound might have.

There was no judgment in his expression, just thoughtfulness.

“…Then how do you want me to act?”

His voice was calm, sincere. Not cold, not commanding. Just… searching.

“I don’t mean that as a challenge. I genuinely want to understand.” He took a slow step closer, then another, stopping just short of her seat so he wasn’t looming. “Because I know what I’ve been taught to be. I know what I want to be. But it seems neither are what’s needed in this moment.”

Then came the quieter question. His brows furrowed slightly, but not with hurt, only curiosity:

“And why is it,” he asked gently, “that my siblings chose to come to you… but not to me?”

He tilted his head slightly.

“Is it because they don’t believe I’d listen? Or because they thought you would find the right words, when they couldn’t?”

He didn’t sound offended, more... thoughtful. Reflective. And behind it all, there was that same thread: I just want to do what’s right. Tell me what that is.

[nekomoni]

He froze the moment her voice called out to him. Something about the way she said his name… it wasn’t a command, but a plea. It made him turn without hesitation.

When she spoke, he listened, intently. His brow furrowed ever so slightly at her choice of words, but he said nothing at first, letting her speak without interruption. But the moment the word “unpredictable” dropped from her lips, his expression twitched with restrained surprise.

“Unpredictable?” he echoed, the word foreign in his mouth.

He folded his arms slowly, tilting his head just a fraction as he observed her. It wasn’t accusatory, more analytical. She wasn’t insulting him, that much was clear. But he wasn’t sure what she meant to say either.

As she continued, his posture relaxed slightly, but his silence deepened. Then came her final observation...You're still too kind. A compliment? A warning? He wasn’t sure.

After a long pause, he answered with care:

“…I see.” He exhaled slowly through his nose. “You are not the first to say that about me. My siblings have done so… usually in jest. I suppose I ought to be more concerned, hearing it from my tactician instead.”

He looked at her fully now, not with judgment, but quiet curiosity. “And what do you suggest I do about that?”

A faint smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. Not amused, exactly, just self-aware.

“Surely it is not so bad if I confuse my enemies. But if I confuse you, then either I am flawed… or I’ve made things far more difficult than they should be.”

He let his gaze linger a moment longer before softening his tone.

“Tell me plainly, Daedra. Is it my unpredictability that worries you… or what it might reveal?”

[tactful-kind-daedra]

She could tell her admission left him confused. Now she was really worried she'd gone and offended him. Whether that was true or not, Daedra was unsure... but he had yet to storm off. Much less say anything in reply... so far.

He didn't seem -as- surprised when he took a moment to mull it over. However, Daedra did not join in his displayed levity, especially when he made light of confusing the enemies. Her frown only grew more severe.

"Sometimes it will catch enemies by surprise, sometimes it won't," the tactician explained, almost forebodingly. "Unless it's assured they will be overwhelmed enough, surprising them sometimes leaves them emboldened.... You are not invincible, Prince Xander."

That wasn't quite the issue she was speaking of, though. Quick enough, Daedra let out a sigh as she realigned her thoughts back in order.

"What concerns me is that, as of late, I am not predicting you correctly," she came to admit. "When you first joined, it was easy to place you.... use your skill accordingly. You are the Crown Prince, akin to a high ranked General. You knew your role and you knew your position. You mostly defended your siblings on the rare chance they were overwhelmed. Now... however...."

She went silent again, not feeling quite so bold as to criticize someone like him. Namely as someone who could make the plans but... could hardly swing a blade themselves.

".... You're a very kindhearted person," is how she chooses to address it plainly. "It's a trait that not many choose to keep. I refuse to be the one to tell someone to not be that way... least of all you. You've broken formation numerous times..."

Many others probably didn't notice. Daedra had... immediately. Afterall, she'd been the one to design where everyone was meant to be, least things be altered on the battlefield.

[nekomoni]

He listened, truly listened, even as the words grew harder to hear. He remained quiet, arms crossing slowly over his chest as he absorbed each point. Daedra spoke carefully, but the meaning was unmistakable. Her concern was valid. Yet it unsettled him deeply.

“So… what you are saying,” he began, his voice calm but carrying that rare, sharpened edge of frustration beneath it, “is that my role now demands less… kindness.”

His gaze flicked downward, to the floor between them, as if the weight of the idea needed grounding. “In other words, you want me to be more like my father.”

He didn’t speak the name Garon, not fully. It hung between the lines like a blade yet unsheathed.

“I can do that. Without hesitation, even. I’ve lived under his example long enough to mimic the mold.” A pause. “But my siblings, Corrin especially, have made it clear that doing so would be a betrayal of the man they believe I am. Of the brother they want me to be.”

His jaw tensed. His voice dropped slightly.

“And if you know anything of me, then you know this: I would rather wound myself a hundred times over than hurt the ones I love. Disappointment... is not something I carry lightly.”

A sigh escaped him then, frustrated, weary, honest.

“So here I stand. You ask for rigidity, order. They ask for mercy. Both sides claim to support me. Yet both pull in opposite directions.”

He looked at her again, earnestly, if tiredly.

“Very well, then. For the sake of the upcoming battle, I will step back from… gentleness. If the battlefield demands a colder hand, I will wield it. That is my duty.”

A breath, measured.

“…And after, perhaps, there will be time enough to remember how to be soft again.”