Arranged

Chapter Five: Pensive

The next day, Kiera was up earlier than most others and was sitting by a fire with a cauldron as she brewed some kind of green potion. Edelgard approached her, curiosity piqued. "What is that you're brewing, Kiera?" she asked, her voice solemn.

Kiera turned to look at Edelgard, her violet eyes glinting with a secret. "Just a little something to make sure we stay safe," she replied coyly.

Edelgard furrowed her brow, sensing a hidden intention beneath Kiera's words. "I must say, I've never seen a potion quite like that before. What exactly does it do?"

Kiera smirked as she prepared to reveal her secret. "It's Wiggenweald. A healing potion. I know some people got hurt by bandits last night in the ambush so since my personal reserves won't cover it all I figured I might as well just brew a new batch."

Edelgard raised an eyebrow, skepticism lurking in her eyes. "I see. And how exactly did you come to know of this potion's recipe?"

"I learned it in my first year of Hogwarts in potions class. Professor Sharp said that mine was the most potent he'd come across from a student and I've only gotten better." Kiera boasted.

Edelgard nodded, impressed by Kiera's proficiency in potion-making. "It seems you have quite the talent, Kiera. Your skills could prove invaluable to us in times of need." She glanced around discreetly before leaning in closer to Kiera. "Are you certain I can't convince you to join me in the empire?"

"Sorry, no. Dimitri is my best friend and I'm not going to leave Dedue." She shook her head.

Edelgard sighed softly, understanding Kiera's loyalty to her friend and husband. "I respect your decision, Kiera. Loyalty is a rare quality these days." She straightened up, glancing around to make sure no one was eavesdropping on their conversation. "Just promise me you'll keep using your talents for the greater good, regardless of where your loyalties lie."

Kiera met Edelgard's gaze, a fire burning in her violet eyes. "I promise," she said firmly, a hint of determination in her voice.

As they continued their conversation, the camp bustled with activity as preparations were made for the day ahead. Dedue emerged from his tent and made his way over to Kiera and Edelgard, his presence garnering suspicion from those around him that did not know him. He nodded to Edelgard respectfully before turning his attention to Kiera.

"You're up early," Dedue observed, his deep voice cutting through the morning air.

"I couldn't sleep." Kiera sighed "I tried but I was constantly listening for giant spiders, Ashwinders or bandits."

"There are no giant spiders or Ashwinders here in Fòdlan." Dedue commented.

"I know. But I've spent so much time in the forbidden forest that it's hardwired into me whenever I'm in a forest. So since I couldn't sleep I figured I'd make myself useful." She said as she stirred the contents of her cauldron.

Dedue nodded solemnly, understanding the weight of Kiera's past experiences. "I see. Your vigilance is admirable, Kiera." He glanced at the cauldron, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "Is there anything I can do to assist you?"

Kiera looked up at Dedue, a small smile playing on her lips. "Actually, could you get into my suitcase and grab some glass bottles? I don't think I grabbed enough."

Dedue nodded and went to retrieve the glass bottles from Kiera's suitcase, his movements precise and efficient. As he handed her the bottles, their fingers brushed against each other, sending a jolt of warmth through Kiera. She quickly composed herself, focusing on pouring the potion into the bottles carefully.

Once the task was complete, Kiera capped the bottles and held one out to Dedue. "Here, this is for you. Just in case you ever need it," she said softly, her eyes meeting his with a mixture of gratitude and something more.