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Please contact me before posting in here - I’d like to plot something out before starting a thread willy-nilly.

Here are my permissions. […Or at least that’s where a link will be when I have a permissions page up. Will edit later.]

Happy threading!

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[There are things Edelgard doesn’t know about Hubert’s work. He’s not secretive about the fact that he’s secretive; she knows there’s much beneath the surface that she isn’t privy to, despite Hubert’s loyalty to her. It’s a shame at times, really; he’d love to share some of his research with Edelgard regarding dark magic, if not as an advisor, then as a friend sharing his interests with his closest confidant. But her disapproval of dark magic in general puts a damper on that possibility.

He’s created a scarce few close friendships, primarily with members of the Black Eagle Strike Force, so when he decides he needs an aide with his deep dive into dark magic, he cards through the options in his head like a recipe book. Ferdinand seems to share Edelgard’s distaste for the subject, as does Dorothea; Petra is far too busy with her own political affairs; Bernadetta lacks the spine for such endeavors, and even if Caspar were a good fit for the study (he isn’t), he wouldn’t be able to keep it a secret. There’d be no way.

Linhardt comes to mind.

Hubert does see the downsides of going to Linhardt for help—his overabundant sleep schedule, for starters, is not conducive to Hubert’s own work schedule. And if Hubert’s intuition is right, Linhardt is likely to get distracted from the work once he finds some other interest to pursue. However, if Hubert can direct his attention accordingly, this could work. Linhardt may even have an interest in the subject. And, if he turns Hubert down, he will at least keep it a secret that Hubert asked in the first place. He trusts that much.

It’s worth an ask, anyway.

Hubert finds himself approaching Linhardt’s quarters once he’s able to walk away from his other responsibilities. He has no doubt he’ll find Linhardt at this time. According to Hubert’s calculations, Linhardt should be asleep. And Hubert has no qualms with waking him up. If it ends up being a short conversation ending in Linhardt returning to sleep, so be it. He knocks at Linhardt’s door, loud enough to wake him if necessary.]

[ Given the depth and multitude of Hubert's responsibilities, by the time he calls on Linhardt, it's around 11 in the evening. And, contrary to what others might expect, the healer is not asleep, but rather is seated at the table in his study, which is absolutely covered in materials: Books, handwritten notes, scraps of information collected from Abyss, and other odds and ends completely obscure the table surface. There's little to connect the subjects: Next to Professor Hanneman's notes on the relationship between Crests and the blood of the bearers is information on the geology of Fodlan, and above them both is the manuscript from Abyss describing the forbidden far seeing device, now covered with Linhardt's hand reversing the mathematics.

Which is to say: Linhardt is busy.

The loud knock on his door sets his teeth on edge: Rude. Reluctantly, he disengages from the table, leaving his tea sitting on the table, and exits his study, locking the door behind him, heading towards the entrance to his quarters.]

What?

[ The blunt, irritated question is spoken before Linhardt registers the identity of his visitor. He's taken absolutely zero steps to make himself presentable, opening the door to reveal himself in opulent silk nightclothes, ink splattered sleeves pushed up to his elbows, no shoes, and strands of green hair sticking out of his loose braid.

Upon seeing Hubert, Linhardt sighs. ]

What?

[ This time, the question sounds less irritated and more resigned. Hubert doesn't make social calls. That means he's here for a reason. Which means he needs something. Linhardt mentally flips through what 'somethings' are plausible and which would require his immediate attention. ]

Is someone hurt? Edelgard?

[ What else would bring him here? Hubert hated admitting to any kind of weakness, and the only thing he might allow needing Linhardt for is his healing skill. Edelgard had trust issues - quite justifiably so - and just because the war had ended doesn't mean the violence has. Assassinations and covert actions are always a danger. ]

[Well, that’s a shock. Though Linhardt is dressed the part, it seems he hasn’t been sleeping at all. There are too many candles lit, indicating he’s been up and about. Curious. Ah, well, that spares Hubert the necessity of apologizing for waking him up. He does hate apologies.]

No, no one’s hurt. Would you believe I actually sought you out tonight for your intellect? I require a favor.

[He pauses. Dark magic is a delicate matter; he wouldn’t want someone overhearing. He looks over his shoulder and down the hall for any passers-by, and greeted with the sight of an empty hallway, he still doesn’t trust it.]

May I come in?

[He does consider, briefly, what “may I enter your quarters” looks like when the hour is so close to midnight, but something tells him Linhardt won’t take it that way.]

[ A favor. Linhardt raises an eyebrow in a clear, yet understated, expression of surprise.

Hubert doesn't ask for favors. The healer stands in his doorway, tilting his head a fraction of a degree, blue eyes narrowing for a moment in what is clearly suspicion. What could compel Hubert to admit such a thing? The man detests needing anything from anyone, Linhardt included. His theory is that Hubert sees it as a form of weakness, which is something Hubert clearly cannot abide in himself. That is clearly what makes him work himself to the point of collapse.

And the way he watches the hallway. Curious. Curious and curiouser.

Ugh. Now he's interested. What could make Hubert act in such a way? It has to be Hubert: If he were compromised in the way Tomas or Monica had been, Edelgard (and likely Ferdinand) would already be dead.

In response to the question, Linhardt moves, gesturing with one hand for Hubert to follow him inside and waving the door shut with a bit of magic, locking it behind them.

The quarters are rather ridiculously opulent - less out of a reflection of Linhardt's tastes and more a display of conspicuous economic power on his parents' part - but, true to Linhardt's personality, it's cramped with numerous items, books and esoteric scientific and magical tools lining the walls, along with bundles of deliveries that Linhardt has not found the time to put away containing all manner of things including clothing, bedding, census records, and various foodstuffs. He leads Hubert to the sitting room and gestures to one of the comfortable arm chairs, digging around in a nearby crate until he produces two teapots and cups. Filling the teapots with water from a cistern, he places Almyran pine needles in one and some ground coffee in the other.

He pushes the teapot towards Hubert: They both know fire magic and Hubert knows how to heat coffee better than Linhardt.

Then, sitting himself down, he returns his attention to his friend, picking up his own teapot and summoning flames to hand to heat the tea.]

What precisely is so dire that you would admit to needing anything?

Are you dying?

[ The question is asked in a completely deadpan fashion. ]

[Oh, the clutter. Hubert has a similar propensity for leaving his belongings everywhere, true, but he simply doesn’t have as many belongings as Linhardt does. But, unlike some other people they know, Linhardt keeps his mess to his own quarters, so Hubert chooses not to comment.

Plus, the coffee is a welcome sight. It would be rude to criticize Linhardt’s mess when he’s courteous enough to offer him a pot.

As Hubert prepares his coffee, Linhardt’s questions raise a good point. It had taken Hubert a good while to admit to himself that he needed help. “Are you dying,” though, gets a laugh out of him.]

No, I am not dying. I know I’m not one to ask for assistance, but this is a… rather large conundrum I am facing.

[That’s where his smile dies. He isn’t sure how Linhardt is going to respond to his proposal.]

I’ve been advancing my studies in dark magic. Much further than Lady Edelgard would like, mind you. In fact—

[He cuts himself off. Linhardt hasn’t agreed to this venture yet; he hasn’t been guaranteed silence. He’s already said too much.]

Never mind. The point is, I could use… an assistant. I believe you have the capability to excel in this field, and an inkling that you might have an interest, as well. … Of course, I could be wrong. Perhaps you’re busy with your own ventures at the moment. But I figured it would be worth an ask.

[ Linhardt smiles when Hubert laughs. It's not the grin that Caspar would give; his pleasure is restrained, a mere quirk of the lips as part of him thinks even showing that amount of emotion is unwise. But he can't help himself: Hubert, like Edelgard, is so closed off and so devoted to their goals that it seems both of them sometimes forgot to be people. The evidence that Hubert allows himself some manner of self-expression is welcome.

The healer listens closely, tilting his head that same infinitesimal amount, mind working behind those intelligent blue eyes as he reaches out and pours himself a cup of his now warm tea. Now that Hubert had come at a reasonable time, he doesn't even feel the need to yawn as he takes a sip.]

I'm sure that you remember that one of the primary reasons I joined this endeavor - other than keeping Caspar alive -

[ He had not cared for the rest of the Black Eagles as he had grown to at that point several years ago, so Caspar's starry eyed insistence on following Professor Byleth wherever the Professor went had been his primary personal interest at the time. Hubert is not the type to take offense to this fact. ]

Is because I found the Church's censorship of information highly distasteful. I did not believe that their possession of political power entitled them to cripple the minds of those around them, particularly given that the records I found suggested that much of the censorship was due to their discomfort.

You are also aware that I agree with Her Majesty when it comes to the double standard between nobles and commoners.

[ Infuriating as Hubert is, he is intelligent. Intelligent enough to read between the lines: Linhardt does not believe in central authorities restricting information, and he does not believe in double standards. If it is wrong for the Church to forbid exploration, it is also wrong for Edelgard to do so. Her discomfort, warranted or not, is irrelevant.

Hadn't that been what they'd all told him during the war? His feelings weren't relevant?]

My answer depends on a couple of variables.

First, are you investigating anything interesting or are you simply looking for more ways to kill people? I confess that I have a burning curiosity to know how, precisely, our enemies manage their shapeshifting, as well as how, precisely, they are manipulating people's Crests.

Secondly, do you want an assistant in that you want a silent, obedient set of hands? I have no interest in such a thing. I would agree only under the condition my interests are explored as thoroughly as yours. 'Waste of time' or not.

[Hubert can, indeed, read between the lines. There is a part of Hubert that wants to retaliate against this subtle Edelgard callout. There always is. However—and he would not admit this—he agrees with Linhardt. He’d been against this censorship from the start, had arguments with Edelgard regarding his study of dark magic—and the last time he brought it up, he’d resigned to giving it up. Agreed to burn all his findings of The Slitherer’s magics.

He never did dispose of his findings. He’d simply told Edelgard he had. Even created a bonfire to go along with the lie.

The point is, Linhardt is safe from Hubert’s ire. This time, anyway. His response is merely to pour himself some coffee.

He’d expected Linhardt to have terms. This isn’t surprising. And he thinks he knows how to make it worth Linhardt’s while.]

First of all, I chose you for your brain, Linhardt. Not your hands. I need your… healthy curiosity. Your insight. And if I was looking for obedient you are the last person I would have gone to.

As for my purpose, I would be lying if I said I wasn’t interested in improving our safety measures.

[Hubert doesn’t agree with a concept so crass as “ways to kill people,” but he knows what Linhardt is getting at.]

But—

[And this is the part where Hubert wishes he could allow himself to emote more. When Linhardt had brought up shapeshifting, not to mention crest manipulation—well, that’s one of the most exciting parts of his venture, he thinks, and there’s a part of him that wants to expound on the subject at length, to get into the intricacies of the subject and tell Linhardt what he’s already found out about it—this is, to say, that Hubert is excited that he and Linhardt already have common ground.

But he holds that all in. Sips his coffee. Maintains diplomacy.]

But, I am interested in both shapeshifting and crest manipulation, since you named those. And I believe I’ve found other uses for dark magic that you would be interested in, things that would improve the world at large. I can absolutely make this venture worth your while.

An abacus does not have opinions. Desiring my brain does not equal to desiring my opinion, as many people have made clear to me in the past. You included.

[ Hubert's initial interest in Linhardt hadn't been out of respect for Linhardt's thoughts. He'd only been interested in Linhardt's usefulness as a tool. It's possible that had changed: Hubert's relationships with the other Black Eagles certainly had - Bernadetta is rather fond of him and that is a point in his favor - but Linhardt is used to people interested in what he can do for them. Even people he likes and whose interests he shares, such as Professor Hanneman. ]

I don't have any objection to improving our safety measures and our intelligence on our enemy. My ideological opinions aside, I also believe it would be strategically and tactically remiss not to understand their methods. We have to learn to defend ourselves. Understanding their work might give us the ability to detect it, and I for one would sleep more soundly if Edelgard, our friends, and my parents were able to determine if there were imposters among their people.

[ Each word Linhardt says is true. It is also a veneer of plausible deniability for Hubert, whose life revolves around Edelgard. He stops to take another drink of tea, looking into the liquid pensively. He doesn't talk this much often. There is a reason: Anytime he shares his opinions, there's a part of his mind screaming at him to stop. It's always been there. Almost always.

But it is in his interests that Edelgard succeed. He does actually hold some affection for her, though he'd never express it directly. How odd that would be. And, of course, if she fails, then more falls on his parents. Which makes them higher level targets.

He hates this. The healer inhales and exhales, closing his eyes for a moment as a sudden wave of weariness sweeps over him, nearly swaying in his chair. Instead of falling asleep, however, Linhardt opens his eyes and forces eye contact with Hubert.]

Good.

I propose that there are two first steps we need to take: First, we'll need to share information. I need your word that you will both be forthcoming and that you will not be overly emotional when it comes to my sharing what I know. If we must dance around certain subjects, I am going to tire of this quickly.

[ There are matters of which Linhardt knows - or suspects - that he has kept quiet on primarily out of respect. They are relevant to the question of the Crest manipulation, and if he is forced to pretend he knows nothing, it will be vexing. ]

Secondly, we'll need a convincing lie about why we're suddenly spending time together. We both despise socializing; the change in habit will be too apparent and draw attention. Given my expertise, I think the easiest explanation would be a false ailment of some part on your part. You would understandably want to keep such a vulnerability hidden, and even Lady Edelgard would sympathize with why and understand why I was chosen to tend to the matter.

[Linhardt’s initial reply catches him off guard. Hubert had meant it as a high compliment when he said he wanted his mind, but… Linhardt does have a point. Hubert often does regard people by their usefulness, and it’s only recently that Hubert has realized being told that you’re “useful” is not necessarily complimentary, even if that’s always how he’d meant it. There could be a delve into why Hubert focuses so hard on one’s personal usefulness, but that’s for another time.]

I… apologize. I should have been more clear: I want your opinion.

[In any case, it’s excellent that Linhardt has agreed to join him. Hubert is significantly more at ease.]

I agree that we should share information, and I’m prepared to do just that. I had intended to give you full use of my workshop and my records, to use at your leisure.

And you raise a good point on that matter. If Edelgard ever suspects I haven’t given up on my research…

[He grunts. The thought leaves him uneasy. It’s not as if Edelgard will administer a harsh punishment on him, but to see the disappointment in her face is always crushing. But, Linhardt’s idea is sound. It eases some of the worry on Hubert’s face.]

Alright, then, that’s what we’ll do. I’ll pretend to be sick. We’ll work in my study and if anyone tries to intrude, I’ll simply shuffle into my bed and act like you’re keeping me there. How does that sound?

Perhaps you are ill. You've asked for help, expressed independence, and apologized in the span of ten minutes.

[ Linhardt can't help himself; the commentary is embedded into his soul. To turn it off would be like Hubert to turn off his glowering. He is not Ferdinand or Dorothea: Linhardt possesses almost no social mask, nor any of the graces their more charismatic friends boast. Still... he taps the side of his tea cup, looking up at the ceiling as he very clearly weighs something, eyebrows furrowed in thought.]

I am surprised. Not displeased. I always thought you somewhat disliked me of all of us.

[ The thought is expressed as neutrally as any other Linhardt puts forth. It had not offended him. Hubert is extremely goal oriented, and Linhardt prefers to follow his interests. It had been understandable to his mind why Hubert would not be fond of him of all the Black Eagles. Petra, Dorothea, and Ferdinand would have won some respect for having goals of their own. And Hubert and Bernadetta had an odd friendship - in truth he felt a small sting of jealousy when he thought on it too much. Caspar would be regarded neutrally or as a useful tool.

His gaze returns to his friend. Hubert is his friend. Linhardt has never needed external validation for his feelings. Friendship included. Hubert's lack of affection in return was irrelevant.

It's easy enough to leave that uncomfortable topic behind, because what Hubert says next makes Linhardt inhale sharply and lean forward, eyes glittering with an excitement that the mage rarely shows.]

Really?

[ His calm demeanor breaks and for a moment, Linhardt's face and voice light up in pure anticipation. At his leisure. All of it. Between the Vestra records, the information Linhardt has acquired over the years, and the domestic records Hevring had... and there are tools in there. He knows there are.

Tools...]

I'll bring the near looking device I'm making. Or trying to. I don't suppose you have any training in lens making?

[ The math works, it's just the actual production that is taking longer than Linhardt would like. Remaining far more animating than usual, Linhardt waves a hand when Hubert talks about Edelgard. ]

We'll blame me if that happens. Nobody expects me to listen to them, I'm well known for being interested in obscure and forbidden magical theory, and Lady Edelgard already isn't fond of me. I think.

[ In truth, it's hard to know how Edelgard feels about him. They spend so much time arguing, but she spends so much time trying to understand him. Linhardt isn't certain why. It's one of those things that make his stomach churn, so he prefers to ignore it. Taking the arguments at face value is easier. ]

We'll tell her that I used your concern for her to convince you to help me.

[ The temporary surge of energy drains out of Linhardt, along with the temporarily free and casual speech, as they move back to boring, practical matters. His posture straightens and the mask of apathy comes back down over his face.]

Yes. That sounds like a good idea. I do like plans that involve me telling you what to do.

[ Oh, that hadn't sounded right. It's not worth caring about: Everybody knows he's socially odd, and so is Hubert. He'll understand the jest. Hubert (and Edelgard) are usually the ones giving orders, but everyone has to bow to their healer. Or die. Dying would be an option, but even they're not that stubborn. ]

[Linhardt’s jest makes Hubert’s lip curl upward. Once upon a time Hubert would’ve hated it—he did hate Linhardt’s jests during their academy days, in fact. Perhaps Hubert has softened since the war’s end? And perhaps that’s a good thing. In any case, nowadays, Hubert likes that Linhardt doesn’t have a social mask in the same way their other compatriots do. Hubert knows when to put his mask up, which is often, considering his post; in a world where everyone wears a mask, it’s nice to know someone who does not.

But his smile falters when Linhardt suggests Hubert doesn’t like him compared to the other Eagles. Even during their academy days, that wouldn’t have been true—Ferdinand had held his ire most of all. Obviously that has changed. Twin jewels and all that. But anyway, he had let go of any dislike he’d held for all the Eagles, Linhardt included.

But when Linhardt’s face lights up at Hubert’s offer—well, Hubert is both amused, and wondering if he’d made a mistake. But he still wonders what Linhardt might be able to accomplish with his arsenal.]

Yes, really. As you said, we need to share information with each other. What good would it be not to share?

Lens making… [He purses his lips thoughtfully. He isn’t sure how this could be related, but Linhardt is expressing more excitement than usual when he brings it up, and he doesn’t want to kill that excitement. Linhardt’s excitement, he’s learned, usually leads to great things.] I could take a look if you’d like. I don’t know what I can guarantee, but I’ll help how I can.

[It does ease his fears, just a little, that Linhardt is willing to take the blame if they’re found out to be working with dark magic.]

As long as you’re alright with that, I can agree to it.

[And Linhardt’s humor once again makes Hubert smile, just barely.]

If that is how it must be, so be it.

Can we start tomorrow? I have an important meeting to attend in the morning, but I can “fall ill” after that.

[ People don't come naturally to Linhardt, so instead the healer has learned to pick up on and catalogue their subtle tells. The way Caspar's voice wavers if he's not as confident as he acts. How Dorothea looks down more when a topic of conversation is upsetting her. In Hubert's case, the vast majority of Linhardt's attentions had been focused on learning the differences between the man's actual smile and a malicious one.

So he notices when the rare, genuine smile leaves. Curious. All he'd done is share an opinion, and not one that would impact anything of import. For the barest moment, frustration flashes across Linhardt's face: People were like trying to read manuscripts written in Almyran. Even when he does understand, he feels like something is missing.]

I'm not used to anything being that simple. Or to anything going well. Are we sure the room isn't trapped?

[ There's always another shoe to drop. Nothing ever went according to plan. People wouldn't need healers if plans always worked. Linhardt's hands ball into fists in his lap and again the healer inhales and exhales, trying to ignore the images of things that could go wrong. That had gone wrong.

Giving Hubert a tentative smile, Linhardt leans forward to explain. ]

One of the places I hid from you, Edelgard, and the Church was in Abyss. While I was there, I found designs for an object - forbidden, of course - that would allow a sailor to see over great distances or for a scientist to observe the stars much more closely. Professor Hanneman paid me a visit and he mentioned something about the invisible nature of some Crest information available from blood, and it made me wonder: Is it invisible? Or perhaps it's just too small to see? I'm reversing the math on the telescope so that, hopefully, I should be able to actually see what's different instead of theorizing. I believe that we could see parts of the world previously unknown to us.

[ Hence why he wants to bring it in to their work: It might help with the Crest questions, if they can get the lenswork done properly. It's so finicky, it's infuriating. Linhardt's estimation of glassworkers has risen exponentially in the last year.

As before, the long paragraph of the delighted scholar falls back into careful, neutral consideration when the topic is exhausted. Speaking of exhaustion...Linhardt finally yawns, unabashedly, although he at least puts a pale hand over the open mouth.]

Of course I'll take the blame. It's the logical thing to do and I do not care if Edelgard is angry with me.

[ Linhardt wrinkles his nose in distaste. Meetings. Disgusting. But Hubert is committed to them. He's nothing if not a man full of commitments. ]

Yes, but please come prepared to explain your organization system. I'll need to know where to place my own information so it's easily referenced. I'll spend some time between now and then concocting a fake illness that will stand up to outside scrutiny.

What, my workshop? Trapped? Of course I’ve put my own traps up, if that’s what you mean, but obviously I’ll clue you into their whereabouts.

[Hubert isn’t even angry when Linhardt mentions he’d kept something from him. First of all, it’s unsurprising; second, he’s intrigued by Linhardt’s findings.]

Too small to see? That very well could be. There have got to be mysteries in blood, it’s so prevalent in the Slitherers’ work—wait. Is that something you’re prepared for? Working with blood?

[He’s not going to turn Linhardt away if his thing about blood continues to be a problem, but it is important to bring up.

He does not respond to Linhardt’s insistence on taking the blame. There is a twinge of guilt he feels, what with the possibility that Linhardt gets in trouble for his own ideas, but in order to continue on with this project he’ll have to push that guilt down and let Linhardt take the fall if it comes down to that. Hopefully, though, he can prevent that.

He nods at Linhardt’s request.]

Very well. I’ll show you around the workshop. It shouldn’t be too hard to understand.

[And Hubert is confident in that. He’s quite proud of his organizational skills.]

[ Now it's Linhardt's turn to laugh. Like Hubert, his laugh is short, but the healer doesn't restrain himself to the degree the other man does, allowing the joy of the laugh to reverberate around the room and his eyes to crinkle as he smiles. Of course. He should have clarified. ]

I meant other people's traps. I should have specified.

[ Because of course Hubert's workshop is protected. It should be, and Linhardt doesn't disapprove, though he prefers different methods. Where Hubert used traps and cunning, Linhardt prefers chaos: He knows where everything is. That there is no discernible organizing principle is the point. There are additional measures: occasional locked and puzzled materials, which sometimes contain valuable information...and sometimes contain perfumes, or tea. Or a letter from his mother. He assumes he's spied on; the point is to drive the spies absolutely mad while requiring little effort from Linhardt.

Linhardt stiffens on the couch, leaning away from Hubert unconsciously, a defensive feeling he dislikes welling up inside of him, which in turn only makes him more irritable. It's too close to shame, which is an emotion he does not care for and prefers not to indulge.

It's a valid question. So the healer bites his tongue, does not allow the acerbic commentary of 'oh so now you care?' If he can be concerned that Hubert's protectiveness of Edelgard's secrets might prove a problem, Hubert is entitled to inquire after Linhardt's squeamishness. It also doesn't make Linhardt any more comfortable. When he answers, his voice is stiff and quiet, and his eyes focus on a space over Hubert's shoulder rather than Hubert himself.]

I am capable. I've learned to override my instinctive revulsion. It concerns me.

[ What else has he lost? He cares so much less than he used to. Is that the first step towards becoming like those who caused Remire? ]

It would be my preference you do that portion of the work, but I can if necessary.

I'm usually awake by 9 PM, if that time works for you. Efforts requiring secrecy and concentration are best done between 2 AM and 5 AM, but your official duties make that less feasible. 9 PM to 2 AM is the second most preferable time.

If others have laid traps in my workshop, I’ve made a grave error.

[Hubert is not blind to Linhardt’s discomfort. He would feel bad about it, but he’d asked a necessary question. And besides, Linhardt had answered diplomatically, so if he was offended he seemed to recognize the necessity all the same. That is enough for Hubert. He nods.]

That is good to know. I trust you. And I don’t mind doing that portion of the work; that’s a reasonable request.

[Hubert is surprised to hear Linhardt is so prepared to work the early morning hours—only mildly surprised that he’s prepared to work in secrecy, but very surprised he’s willing to give up a good night’s sleep for it. Had he been underestimating Linhardt all this time? What other secrets does the man hold?]

You wouldn’t prefer to sleep through those hours?

[He doesn’t linger long on it, though, and shrugs it off.]

If I am to be ill, I will not be seeing to my official morning duties. 2 to 5 should be perfectly fine—I will be able to sleep through the mornings. Expected to, even.

[Normally Hubert would never sleep through his morning work hours, even when ill, but considering he’ll be putting those hours in overnight puts him at ease. He’d still be working the same amount, just in secret. And all his efforts would be for the benefit of the Empire, as per usual.]

That is why I used it as an example of something going wrong.

[ There is always something. While Linhardt is grateful every day that the time of active warfare is past, he's found that his sense of foreboding and his anxiety have not left him. Instead of worrying about not being able to save people after battle, Linhardt now worries about assassinations and sabotage. There is no reason to share this with Hubert: The man is paranoid enough already.

Linhardt raises an eyebrow when Hubert says he trusts him. Interesting. Even knowing that it's limited to the scope at hand, it's still more than he would expect.]

You have changed a great deal. I would consider your changes positive.

[ Unlike his own. There is something about him that won't let him leave the war behind him so easily, and ever since its start, he's felt like a bridge with a missing support and more and more weight passing by. Creaking. Cracking.

He has not yet determined a solution.

Picking up his tea, Linhardt drinks deeply and then shakes his head. ]

I'm ordinarily awake between 10 PM and 5 AM. In the Academy, that was when I could research topics the Church was prickly about without risking Seteth's wrath. You and Edelgard were asleep and likewise, would not interrupt me.

During the war...

[ He trails off, tapping the side of his teacup before continuing. ]

During the beginning, we were solely lacking in healers. That is the portion of the army, and the populace, most intertwined with the Church so they had the largest desertion rates, which were particularly high among the skilled and those who taught. As Lady Edelgard gave nobody any warning before declaring war, we also could not prepare by training more beforehand and unlike soldiers, completely untrained persons are useless. Due to the shortage and my abilities to continue past the point of others due to my Crest, I took the night shifts in the infirmary and let the others rest. I also used that time to prepare materials on healer training for distribution - Professor Manuela was helpful for the second time in her life in this endeavor - and sent them to my father for distribution to the presses.

I doubt I could change the habit if I wished to at this point, and I don't. I appreciate the quiet.

Is that so?

[Despite Hubert’s smile—which was genuine enough, as he’d taken Linhardt’s comment as a compliment—he felt he couldn’t quite agree. He could see the positive changes in all of the Eagles as the years had gone by, but he hadn’t taken the time to consider his own. In fact, since the war’s end, Hubert feared he’d been lacking. Perhaps it only felt that way because the pace of his daily life wasn’t as quick and rigid as it had been during the war. Perhaps he is more suited to war than peace, which was a depressing thought.

But he drops the thought as Linhardt continues. He does remember respecting Linhardt’s drive during the war; he’d noticed him picking up responsibility as a healer as time had gone on, which he’d thought highly of. But Hubert himself hadn’t considered the reason for Linhardt’s efforts. It was an oversight on his own part, not expecting so many healers to defect. And he’d been so swept up in his own business that he’d never noticed just how hard Linhardt had had to push himself, especially overnight.]

I see… that explains how I found you awake this late. I wouldn’t have guessed.

[Hubert finds himself at a loss; he isn’t sure how to continue. With an apology, maybe, for not seeing the whole of Linhardt’s efforts earlier?

He hums, mulling it over. He isn’t good at apologies.]

The Empire owes you a great deal for your efforts.

[…And that’s enough of that.]

You're more willing to compromise and less rigid. I consider those positive traits personally and strategically: Being too isolated and unable to change makes it easier for your enemies to anticipate your actions.

[ Which is precisely why Ferdinand, Edelgard, and Hubert were such an effective team. Thank the Goddess for that: They didn't need him. Despite his displeasure at being involved in politics at all, if he must then being a contingency and a character witness for various factions is preferable to active involvement. The crushing weight is slightly lessened.

This time, when Linhardt smiles, he is the one wearing a smile that seems less an expression of joy than one of malice. The Empire. He doesn't care about the Empire. The Empire is a fiction, just as the Church is. ]

I don't care about the Empire. I didn't think that illiterate people who couldn't point to Enbarr on a map who'd spent their entire lives in a single village deserved to die because Her Majesty decided an unplanned war would solve her problems and they were born on the wrong side of an imaginary line. If I hadn't acted, their deaths would have been my fault. As it is, we lost too many due to my shortcomings.

[ Perhaps it would have been wiser to let the matter rest, but Linhardt has never been known for his tact. He discusses with Caspar and Dorothea on occasion that Edelgard - and Ferdinand - seem to be so wrapped up in their idealism that they forget the cost their grand visions extract from those around them. They are so committed to their goals they rarely consider that they don't offer people choices.

It doesn't please Linhardt.

Not that Hubert cares.]

I know you don't care. I simply wanted to make it clear that I do not care about the Empire: I care about the people living in it. So if you have any ideas of using my apparent loyalty to extract more work, reconsider.

[ Agitated, Linhardt leans forward and pours himself another cup of tea, the movements less fluid than usual. ]

Though I admit it brings me great pleasure to hear you say you did not anticipate something.

[Perhaps Hubert should have known better.

He tries to object as soon as Linhardt says “I don’t care about the Empire,” but Linhardt continues too quickly. The death toll is something Hubert has seldom thought about, but every time he does… You can only tell yourself something is “worth the cause” so many times. That doesn’t stop him from taking insults against the Empire personally.

At least Linhardt says he cares about the people in the empire. Perhaps that can be enough.

There is a pause in the air as Linhardt pours himself more tea; Hubert takes a long drink of his coffee. It may be best, he thinks, to not comment on Linhardt’s political views. He isn’t keen to start a fight when it would defeat the purpose of coming to Linhardt for help in the first place. He’s thankful when the topic moves back around to Linhardt’s sleep schedule and responds to that, as if the political commentary never happened.]

Perhaps you’ll continue to surprise me while we work together.

[But, as he sets down his coffee mug, he figures he has to say something. He sighs.]

I do not wish to “extract” any more work from you than you’re willing to put in. You can walk away at any time.

[ Hubert's complete lack of reaction causes Linhardt to deflate. The healer slumps and puts his tea on the table, leaning back into his chair and curling into himself while he places his hand over his face. And here he'd hoped... he's not sure what, exactly. For some kind of reaction? For his feelings to matter, even if it only made Hubert angry? (As it tended to both Edelgard and his father, frequently - neither of them enjoyed being told 'no' though they expressed their displeasure quite differently.)

Emotions lead to idiocy. He should have known better: The reason Hubert and Edelgard tolerate Ferdinand so well is because he too is committed to this 'cause'. Bernadetta has the right idea: Stay quiet.

Eventually, Linhardt rights himself, the momentarily display gone. ]

I know I can.

[ Nor is his ability to walk away limited to his work with Hubert: There is nothing stopping him from picking up and going home. Or from leaving Fodlan entirely, now that Edelgard has dismantled the Church and its precepts of isolation no longer apply - something of which he does greatly approve. ]

And if you push me to do anything I think is unwise, I will.

Send over what information you want me to have before tomorrow evening. I will concoct your 'illness' as well as what steps we will take to make the ruse convincing.

I apologize for the emotional display. It will not happen again.

[Count this among Linhardt’s surprises. Hubert has never seen an emotional display like this from him before. Or perhaps he had during the war, when it would have made more sense. Emotions were high, everyone was tense. But now?

And Hubert has no idea what he’s done to illicit such a response. He finds himself once again feeling the need to apologize, but for what, exactly?

Hubert’s mouth hangs open in shock as Linhardt curls into himself. He rights himself only after Linhardt’s apology.]

I…

Of course. Consider it done.

As we are at an agreement, perhaps I should let you get back to your work?

[He wouldn’t want to crowd Linhardt. … That’s the proper response to have when you’ve upset someone, right? Leave them alone?]

[ Thank the Goddess it was Hubert. Not a sentence that Linhardt thought often. From anyone else, there would have been a lecture or worse - Hubert at least knows when to leave things alone. It's only partially Hubert's fault that the pressure on him has continued after the war's conclusion. One of the worst things about the entire situation is that everybody's approaches were valid and rational.

Nor does Linhardt himself understand why, precisely, his fits of emotion are harder to push down than they used to be. There's something wrong - something in the locked part of his mind full of uncomfortable truths and feelings that he ignores - and he has no desire to go looking for it. During the war, he sometimes found himself barely feeling anything at all, and instead of leveling out, Linhardt either has no feeling or too much. Usually, sleep and research are sufficient enough distractions.

Luckily, for better or for ill, Hubert doesn't care about anyone's feelings except for Edelgard's.

Though there is some small satisfaction in the way that Hubert stares at him.]

Yes, that would be appreciated. I was hoping to create some lens samples tonight.

[ He does want to be left alone. Alone is free. As alone as anyone in Enbarr in their positions could be. When Linhardt is alone, nobody is wanting and expecting. Yes, he would quite prefer to be alone. ]

--

(OOC: I feel like it would be thematically appropriate if the next scene starts with another emotional outburst, but a happy one. I just can't leave behind the jump cut of 'I'm sorry, it won't happen again.' with 'It works! COME LOOK AT THIS!')

[Hubert tries to keep his relief hidden when Linhardt responds somewhat agreeably. Hopefully this means he’s made the right choice in taking his leave. Instead of sighing audibly, he simply nods in understanding.]

Then I will leave you to it. Good luck with your work.

[He stands and makes his way out. But he stops, briefly, with the door open.]

I do look forward to working with you.

[…And then he’s gone.]

———

[Hubert’s meeting the next morning is… fine. Toward the end he toys with theatrics just a bit, coughing here and there and complaining of a headache he doesn’t actually have. It feels silly, but he is scheduled to fall ill later in the day. Hopefully Linhardt has come up with something clever. Well, Linhardt is clever, so Hubert has little doubt. At the meeting’s end he excuses himself to his quarters, citing his fake headache once more.

Perhaps he shouldn’t be so excited about forgoing his official duties in favor of scientific exploration… He can’t fake an illness forever, after all. He and Linhardt will have to work something out.

On his way to his workshop, he sends a messenger to Linhardt. The message is simple: Hubert has a concerning headache, so please head to his workshop at your leisure.

Hubert doesn’t expect to see Linhardt for a while, so when he arrives to the workshop he reads over his meeting notes… and uses them to make more notes. It’s all part of his process.]

[ It's nearly an hour before Linhardt arrives. The timing of it requires that Hubert send the message at a time that ordinary people would consider 'reasonable' - if he's sick he would not be waiting until the midnight hours Linhardt preferred. That means waiting, because part of the ruse is them acting as normally as possible. And since the message had not been accompanied with someone to wake him - and therefore does not suggest imminent death - Linhardt finishes sleeping before packing up his materials and heading over, yawning openly as he makes his way down the hallway.

Since Hubert had shown him how to safely enter and how some of the security measures functioned (Linhardt is not foolish enough to assume that Hubert has shared them all with him), it's easy enough to let himself inside. He closes the door behind him, making sure that everything is properly locked and secured before setting his bags on the floor near the door.]

Are you allergic to anything?

[ He has a cover story and a fake theory in mind - one that everyone would believe and that Edelgard would agree should be kept quiet if she 'coaxes' the 'truth' from Hubert, but some of the specifics of how they should present the illness and what symptoms it can have will depend on the answers to certain questions.

The symptoms have to start non-specifically - if they were too serious and too obvious, it would draw more attention and other healers would start to theorize. No. It needs to slowly become more serious and more esoteric, requiring both more of Linhardt's attention and more attending to Hubert. Still, it can't be deadly. That would cause Edelgard to be involved.

It's a fine line to walk, and he's not fully decided on which physical symptoms it would be a wise idea to actually induce.]

And what are your feelings on vomiting?

[ Linhardt himself wrinkles his nose. Ugh. The actual practice of healing is...gross. ]

Hello to you, too, Linhardt.

[The abrupt questioning is not surprising, but that doesn’t make it any less abrasive. Hence Hubert’s sarcasm. But, after jotting down another note, he does deign Linhardt with answers.]

No allergies… that I know of. And I don’t know anyone who does prefer vomiting, but I’m used to it.

[One of Hubert’s favorite past times is immunizing himself to various poisons. Hence the familiarity with vomiting.

The questions must be about the fake illness. Hubert is fast enough to piece that together. He shuffles through his pile of notes, putting them in order and straightening them out so that he can put them away in his organizer. Clearing his desk is his way of saying he’s ready to devote attention to Linhardt. He turns to Linhardt, attention fully on him now.]

…You’re not going to make me vomit, are you?

for sleepfan

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Linhardt is full of resentment... sorry, Hubert

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hubert’s social skills need work. sorry, linhardt

Hubert's social skills 🤝 Linhardt's communication skills. Luckily, he's the one that takes it wel

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