The Blessed Lands of Fodlan

by StoriesandGlories

This story is about the adventures of Byleth and Francesca-two young mercenaries who are gifted at combat and tactics, but yearn for a different life. Living in Fodlan-a continent modeled after Europe in the middle ages-their lives eventually take an exciting turn one fateful day... I do not own Fire Emblem. I am not affiliated with the developers of the Fire Emblem games.

9. Bear it with pride

Chapter 9—Bear it with pride—

And the next thing I knew, I woke up on a balcony outside at sunset… there were potted shrubs around and I could see the same architecture at the monastery, suggesting I had never left it… I rolled over and looked and saw I was on top of a cot… I tried to get up before I said: "Ngh!" and fell back down… it looked like I was as alive as Mom had said, but I was still weak… I guess I have no choice but to stay here, as long as I can't get up…

But then the unexpected happened: I heard a: "Ah, Professor Byleth… you're awake." It was Rhea… I rolled over really fast before I said: "Ngh!" and fell back down before Rhea came over to me and put her hand on my shoulder as she said: "Stop straining yourself. You're not going to recover like that." "Rhea… what—" I said before I realized I had forgotten to use her title… I was frustrated with myself as I said: "I mean… Lady Rhea… what happened?" And then I saw Rhea smile as she said: "It's alright, Professor—you can call me Rhea, as long as we're on this floor of the monastery." "This floor…? What floor is this?" I asked. "You are on the balcony of the third floor, which houses the living quarters of the clergy… I brought you here to treat your wounds." Rhea said.

And then she chuckled as she said: "You look confused. Let me explain: after you lost consciousness under the monastery, you were rushed to the infirmary. There, the staff worked as hard as they could to save you, but in the end… they couldn't do it. Your wounds were too severe for you to be saved. It was then that they dispatched a nun to let me know that you were dying and I specifically requested that you be brought here for treatment. When you were, I healed your injuries and now all that's left is for you to rest enough until you can return to work."

When I heard this, I was truly stunned… "You… saved my life? Rhea, I—" I began before I smiled and said: "Thank you. I am truly indebted to you for that—" And then Rhea said: "Not at all, Professor. I heard of your courage from Francesca—she said you stood up to an enemy even the knights feared and won, all to protect Flayn. What you did was gallant and noble and I cannot thank you enough for saving her." And then I grinned and said: "So we're even, then?" And then Iaughed (and Rhea did too, lightly) before I said: "But still, I can't help but wonder… if the infirmary's magic and medicine couldn't save me… how did you pull this miracle off?" "Well… I had to resort to a rather unconventional method; I used my own blood to save you." Rhea replied. "Huh?" I said before she went on: "I gave myself a minor cut and used my blood on your wound. It healed and sure enough, you were showing signs of life again not too long thereafter. Of course, I healed myself shortly after, which is why no trace of my wound is left."

"You healed me… with your blood? I never knew there were such methods in medicine… or that their efficacy was so amazing…" I said before Rhea said: "Well it couldn't be imitated with just anyone's blood… the blood in my veins is enormously rare and carries unmatched healing power." And then she went on: "Still, that is rather personal information and I would appreciate it if you would keep that secret." And I nodded before I said: "Alright, Rhea. Leave it to me." And then she smiled and said: "Good. I'm glad I can count on you." And then she went on: "Now as you can see, you're not in any state to leave yet, but you will be in the near future. It will take two weeks for your wound to heal completely—" and then I said: "Two weeks?! But if today is the same day, that means I won't be able to leave until Wyvern Moon…" "Yes, the same month as the Battle of the Eagle and Lion… but since you will recover well before it, it matters not. Right now what's most important is your recovery, Professor. If you rush it, your healing will take even longer and you will experience pain. That being said, it's important that it be done right, rather than you leaving as early as you possibly could." Rhea said. "I understand… how much longer will it be until I'm transferred to the infirmary?" I asked. "I have already made arrangements for you to rest on this floor of the monastery for the time being—as soon as your room is ready, you will be moved there. You will not be allowed to make contact with visitors for the duration, either." Rhea said. "In that case, I'll prepare for a long rest… thank you, Rhea." I said before she said: "Good. Do not doubt you will recover, Professor. I look forward to seeing you continue your work." And then she left.

Sure enough, I was moved to a rather fancy room before the end of the day… it was a real upgrade to my room on the ground floor. Having to spend 14 days lying around doing nothing was tough, but I got better every day until I had finally recovered fully and was ready to leave—Francesca was going to be the one to pick me up. I waited in my temporary room for her, until soon I heard what sounded like someone running up to it… eventually I heard Francesca's voice from the other side of the wall, saying: "Oh, brother, I'm so happy to see—!"

And yet when Francesca came around the wall and saw me, she looked shocked and said: "Wah! Wh-what happened to you?!" I suddenly felt confused as I said: "What are you talking about?" "Your hair and your eyes, they're… green!" Francesca said. "What…?" I said. I could scarcely believe what I was hearing at first, but I had no way to check right now and I didn't believe Francesca would lie… this must be a side effect of receiving Rhea's blood… And then Francesca approached me as she said: "Brother… what happened?" "I don't know. I woke up here and was told Lady Rhea had saved my life… after that, they let me rest here until I was strong enough to leave." I said back.

Francesca looked skeptical before she said: "So Lady Rhea was the one who saved you… that must mean she knows…" but then she came up and hugged me as she said: "But that's not important… all that matters to me is that you're alive! I—I don't know what I would have done if you would have died…" And I hugged her back as I said: "I understand… I am grateful from the bottom of my heart that I still live… I wouldn't have been able to forgive myself had I left you and Dad like that, but at least it didn't come to that." And then we backed out and Francesca smiled before she said: "Well come on—I was going to take you to Dad before we have to get back to teaching. He'll be so happy to see you're alive, but… I'm not sure how he'll react to your new hair and eye color…"

And then we went off. We left the third floor and went back down to the second, in a hallway that was to the right of the audience chamber. We went up the hallway, turned to the right and headed to Dad's office. When we got there, Francesca paused before she said: "Maybe you'd better wait here…" And then she went on: "Let me handle this." And I nodded before she walked in and I heard her say: "Dad?" And I heard Dad say: "Francesca? Where's Byleth? I thought you said he had recovered and was ready to see us…" And then I heard Francesca say: "He has, Dad. I'll bring him in now." And then she stepped out the door and gestured for me to come in… And I stepped in before Dad looked stunned and said: "B-Byleth?! What happened?!"

I explained it to him as I had to Francesca and by the end of it, he looked down and said: "So Rhea's responsible… and the hard part is not knowing what she did to you…" before he sighed and looked up and smiled before he said: "But the important thing is that you're alive. I'm really glad you're okay, Byleth—Francesca and I would have been devastated if you would have died and to see you alive… it's a true miracle." And I smiled before I said: "I agree, Dad. I thank the goddess that I may still walk the world with you and Francesca." And we all smiled together before Dad said: "And getting to see our family all intact… it's the best thing that's happened this whole year. Byleth… welcome home." And we all smiled again.

And then he went on: "Now as much as I'd love for this moment to continue, I can't really afford to get too behind schedule… there's always so much to do…" And then he approached me and put his hand on my shoulder as he said: "But I'm glad you're okay, son." And then Francesca and I smiled before he went back to work. Francesca turned to me and said: "I can't even begin to tell you how glad I am, Byleth… to see you alive and able to go on normally, I… I'm so relieved." And I smiled before I said: "Me too. I'm glad I'll be able to get back into the game… getting to see our students will be its own reward too."

And then we hurried off to our classroom and prepared for our lesson. Francesca hurried to explain to me all that she had done when she had to teach the class alone and where we were in lectures and class activities. By the end of it, I said: "I see… it seems you've covered a lot of academic ground, despite being forced to work alone for two weeks. Good job, Francesca." "Yes, it was a lot harder without you, but never mind that. I'm just glad we can teach together again. Although there is one more thing I should tell you…" She said before I said: "And what's that?" "Flayn is in our class now. Seteth and I had a conversation once she fully recovered and I agreed to teach her as one of the Black Eagles." Francesca said. And I smiled as she went on: "Currently, she's a little behind the others—his attempts to shelter her don't seem to have left her with much time for studying. So we're going to have to work hard to make sure she catches up." "Alright then. I'm happy to hear she'll get to be part of our class." I said. And then she kept bringing me up to speed. Once our students started coming into our classroom for the day, I did get a lot of strange looks from them… I knew I would have to explain this to them, but… I knew that wasn't all I should do. After the mistakes I had made with some of them, I knew it was only right to apologize…

When our class started, I couldn't help smiling as I said: "I'm glad to see you all again, everyone. As you can see, I'm back, very much alive after my brush with death in the catacombs. As for my recovery, that occurred when I woke up in a special part of the monastery, where my wounds had been healed by Lady Rhea. I had to stay there until I had fully recovered, but now I'm back and ready for more!" And then I went on: "I'm sure you're curious about what has happened to my hair and eyes, but unfortunately, I only know as much as you do… they were like this after the treatment I received, whatever it was."

And then I continued: "Professor Francesca has filled me in on where you are in our lessons prior to our session today. However, before we start our lesson plan, there's one more thing I wish to say first…" And then they looked curious as I went on: "Now we stand half a year into our curriculum and you all have advanced a great deal. And yet in this time, I have mistreated some of you in months prior. For this, you have my sincere apologies… as well as my heartfelt gratitude for standing by me, as you did in our mission in Verdant Rain Moon, as well as other times. I have offered you what support I could, but I hope you all understand that you have supported me a great deal as well. For that, I am truly thankful to have all of you for my students. With the exception of my father, the most important people to me in this monastery are right here under this roof and I will do all I can to support you in kind." By now, they were all smiling before I said: "Now, to resume Professor Francesca's lectures from where you left off…" And I started the lecture.

When our class was out, I headed out. I had some more work to do, but… things got awkward as I went around the monastery… lots of people were staring at me because of my hair and eye color changing… explaining it to everyone was a pain in the neck… I hoped the sight of my new hair color and eye color would become normal soon… even now though, I was still curious about just what they looked like… I still hadn't seen it for myself. The next time I went by a mirror, I checked it… I saw my hair and eyes were indeed green, but… they were dark green, the same shade as Mom's, not Rhea's. That surprised me… given that it was Rhea's blood I had received, I was sure my hair and eyes would look like hers… I wasn't sure what the explanation was for why they resembled Mom's, but frankly I didn't mind one bit! I hadn't forgotten my encounter with her though… I made sure to visit Mom's grave before the end of the day. I left some flowers on her grave and got down in front of it as I said: "Thank you…" and I stood there for a while, thinking of her and our encounter before I left…

At the beginning of the next day, we received summons to meet with Rhea. We went up to the audience chamber to see her and when we arrived, we saw her and Seteth there and I said: "Good morning, Lady Rhea, Seteth. We heard you wanted to speak with us." And she and Seteth smiled and Rhea said: "Good morning, Professor Byleth. Professor Francesca. Yes, I wanted to officially brief you on your mission for this month, although some reference has been made to it already…" And Seteth chuckled and said: "As I believe you recall, I made reference to the battle you will be fighting a few months ago—to the Battle of the Eagle and Lion. It is an academy tradition, where the three houses of students go out to Gronder Field—the site of the original Battle of the Eagle and Lion—to have a free-for-all among the three classes to see not only which house is left standing, but also which house forced the most students to withdraw in combat. Should the house that won and forced the most withdrawals be one and the same, your class will personally be rewarded by the archbishop with a fitting prize."

And then Seteth went on: "That being said, you both have plenty of incentive to do the best. But I believe in you, after all you've done. In order to reach—and leave—the field in time, we will be departing on the 24th. I wish you luck, Professor Byleth, Professor Francesca." And then Rhea said: "Yes, although one thing you should be aware of as well is that—due to her injury—Professor Manuela won't be participating this year, and Professor Hanneman has abstained as well. And there's also one more thing I must tell you…" And then I felt surprised as Francesca said: "Alright. What's that?" "The girl that you rescued besides Flayn—Monica—has almost fully recovered. As it happens, she was a student from last year's class, and she went missing right before she would have graduated last year—" Rhea began before I said: "So they kidnapped her as well? It's a miracle she lived all those months…" and then Rhea said: "Indeed it is. However, the reason I am telling you this is because she was a student in the Black Eagle house, and will therefore be transferring into your class. Since Monica is technically ahead of the other students, she won't have to participate in assignments or monthly missions until Pegasus Moon, and will attend an independent study hall during each class session instead."

And then Francesca and I turned to each other before I said: "Then it was a good thing we had two educators teaching our house after all… shall we take turns each day?" "Yes. I think that would be best." Francesca said before we heard Rhea say: "I am happy to see you've sorted that out so well. The infirmary staff have told me to tell you to expect Monica to transfer into your class in two or three days. That aside though, I look forward to seeing your prowess in the upcoming battle. I expect great things from you." "You can count on us to deliver on those expectations, Lady Rhea! Prepare to be dazzled!" I said as Rhea smiled and said: "Wonderful. Then I will look forward to it." "As will I. Do you have any questions about the battle, Professor Byleth? Professor Francesca?" Seteth asked before we shook our heads and then he said: "Very well. Then go on and do your best. You're dismissed."

And then we left the audience chamber as I said: "Well it looks like I don't have a moment to catch my breath after that incident in the catacombs, now do I? Now we're moving into the month of the Battle of the Eagle and Lion and we have another new student!" "Yes… I'm very confused about how Monica could survive that many months in captivity, but… I guess now's not the time to consider that." Francesca said before she went on: "Still though, it's nice to see the Black Eagles getting bigger and bigger." And I chuckled and said: "Absolutely. I suppose with Monica now, our class size has doubled since the start of the year." And then I went on: "Well this'll make it more fun. Even so, we'd better prepare for the Battle of the Eagle and Lion like we really mean it!" And Francesca nodded before we went to our classroom.

From there, we kept teaching until it was over and everyone got out. I ended up leaving before Francesca and stepped out into the Officers Academy before I stopped and looked up at the beautiful, blue sky above… I smiled before I heard a chuckle, followed by a: "I didn't know you took such pleasure in gazing upon the sky, Professor." It was Edelgard. I looked down and at her as I said: "Ah, Edelgard. Well, I can't help but admire the beautiful spectacle that is nature sometimes, yes." And Edelgard chuckled and approached me before she said: "I understand… I feel the same."

And then she went on: "I hope you'll forgive me for saying this, Professor, but… you've seemed different ever since your recovery." And I chuckled and said: "That's absolutely true! Now I really stand out in a crowd with green hair and green eyes—" And then Edelgard said: "No, that's not what I meant. You're acting different and you seem a lot happier… your apology was gracious of you and I've never seen you so cheerful. It's really encouraging in a way." And I smiled back and said: "Thank you, Edelgard. I'm glad to hear that's how you feel about it all… you're really kind to say that after my apology too." And Edelgard laughed and said: "Well it's hardly something to apologize for, especially after your explanation in the Kingdom. But I have to wonder…" And then I looked up as she went on: "If that's how you feel about the time when you were difficult after I asked about you… I don't suppose you'd care to answer my question now?" And I smiled before I said: "I'd be happy to."

Edelgard looked happier before she said: "That's better. Now then, what was your childhood like, Professor?" And then I said: "Before I became a mercenary, I spent most of my time studying and playing with Francesca, although I did start learning to cook when I was 7, which was a fun change of pace—" And then Edelgard looked surprised and said: "You learned to cook starting at the age of 7? That's certainly impressive… As an Imperial princess, I certainly can't imagine that, when all of my food is prepared for me… what made you want to do that?" "I thought it would be a valuable life skill, so I thought I'd better learn it. Especially since Mom wasn't with us… thinking on what would happen if Dad were killed in some future battle… it made me realize that I should master some things while things are still stable." I said before Edelgard said: "How proactive. But what's this about your mother being dead? When did she die?" "Shortly after Francesca and I were born. We never got to spend any time with her before she died." I said and then Edelgard looked saddened and said: "I see… that must have been difficult…" "It was in some ways, but it wasn't all bad. It was part of what made Francesca and I so close, since we had to lean on each other." I said before I went on: "But anyway, once I became a mercenary—and Francesca did too—we had a much more active life. Going from battlefield to battlefield, keeping busy at most times… it was a challenging way to live, particularly as it made it hard to socialize and make friends… most of my friends were other mercenaries in our team." "I see. You must have been a close bunch then." Edelgard said. And I nodded and said: "Yes, we were. We all shared our triumphs and burdens together. It was nice having other people I could bond with, although growing closer to them wasn't without its risks…"

"Oh… you must be talking about losing your friends in battle…" Edelgard said before I said: "I thought you'd understand, Edelgard. Yes, there were times when we lost our own friends on the field of battle… one time in particular, when one of my dearest friends had to die in a way that left me—" and Edelgard said: "Stop. I can see in your face that this is hurting you." And then she went on: "I'm sorry, Professor. I only wanted to learn about you, not to open sealed wounds. I'll leave you alone now, but… thank you for doing that for me." And then I said: "You're really savvy with other people's feelings, Edelgard. It's very reassuring for the Empire's future that the heir to the throne is so perceptive to everyone's needs."

And yet when I said this, Edelgard suddenly looked really happy and said: "Do you really mean that? Hearing that alone makes me very happy." And then I suddenly felt confused and said: "Why?" "Because everyone I deal with in the Empire sees me as some kind of superhuman ruler… because of my intelligence, abilities and status, most people I interact with are afraid of me and won't even so much as make eye contact… when you get treated like that over and over, it's very reassuring to have someone tell you that they consider you to be compassionate and sensitive to other people." Edelgard said. I couldn't help feeling sad when I heard this, but hearing Edelgard talk about this… it made me feel strangely reassured that another person had undergone something similar to me, back when I was first cursed. I smiled and said: "Now that sounds familiar… to think we've had to bear such similar burdens…" And then Edelgard looked at me and said: "You know… that's a good point, Professor. After what you talked about two missions ago, we do have very similar pasts, even though we were born into such different positions in society…"

And then she went on: "That makes me feel a lot better. Thank you, Professor." "Of course. Let me know if you want to talk again, Edelgard." I said. "It's a deal. I'll see you next time." Edelgard said as she left.

The next day—on the 6th—I was heading to the training grounds from the Knights' Hall an hour after dinner in the dining hall and passed through the Reception Hall. It was relatively crowded in here, even now… but then I heard a: "Oh! Professor?!" It was Mercedes… I turned my head and I saw her here… but she was with Ingrid too… I approached them as I said: "Ah, hello Mercedes, Ingrid. I haven't seen you in a while." "Oh my gosh, it really is you! You look so different now!" Ingrid said before Mercedes said: "I'll say! We heard something had happened to you, but we never expected your hair color and your eye color to change! What on earth happened?"

I explained it to them as I had to Francesca before Ingrid said: "I see… whatever treatment you were given must have been powerful, to bring you back from the brink like that… even so, I've never heard of a medical procedure changing someone's hair color and eye color…" "Even so, it doesn't matter. I'm just relieved to see you're alive, Professor. It was a real miracle that you survived that encounter with the Death Knight… I suppose he really is as strong as they say…" Mercedes said before Ingrid said: "Yes, he was clearly a very adept fighter, though he was no match for the Black Eagles' professor. Your skill is exceptional, Professor and your bravery is inspirational, just like a knight out of the legends of chivalry."

And I chuckled as she went on: "But I'm glad you're here, because Mercedes and I actually had something we wanted to talk to you about." "Sure, that's no problem. What can I help you with?" I asked. "Well the thing is… we wanted to join your class, Professor. You really are a very kind person and do a good job relating to all of the other students." Mercedes said before Ingrid said: "Yes and you really are inspirational, as I said. If I'm being honest, I actually see you as something of a role model, Professor." And then I smiled and said: "Me? A role model? Ha! Now that's gratifying!" And Ingrid chuckled a little before she said: "Of course, I see Professor Francesca with reverence too. Naturally, we have both spoken to Hanneman about this and he has approved of our idea." "Yes, although I noted he seemed rather reluctant when he did… but that's no matter. Would you allow us to join the Black Eagles, Professor?" Mercedes asked.

I smiled and said: "I think that's a great idea. Tell Hanneman the transfer's going through. And be at the Black Eagles' classroom by 8 in the morning the day after it does! Professor Francesca and I will look forward to seeing you there!" "Really?! Oh, that's great! Thank you, Professor! I look forward to learning under you!" Mercedes said. "Oh, that's fantastic! I'm so glad this worked out! Now that I'm in your house, will you teach me more about swordplay?" Ingrid said. I chuckled and said: "Sure! I'll have you ready to fight the Death Knight next time!" And Mercedes seemed to get it and chuckled back, but Ingrid actually looked a little startled and I laughed and said: "I'm kidding, Ingrid! Don't worry—I would never be so irresponsible that I would throw a student at such a dangerous opponent as that. You'll get plenty of combat experience, but rest assured, we won't let you bite off more than you can chew." And Ingrid looked happier before she said: "A-ha… thank you, Professor. I suppose I should have caught that earlier… I see I really do have much I can learn from you!" And then Mercedes said: "We'll see you by 8 in the morning in a couple of days! Goodbye, Professor!" And then they went off. The next time I saw Francesca, I made sure to let her know that Mercedes and Ingrid were transferring into our class soon too.

The next day, I worked until it was time for dinner in the dining hall. Once it was over, I left and headed past the marketplace… before I heard a: Oh hey, Professor." It was Balthus. I turned to him and said: "Ah, hello, Balthus. I don't normally see you around here…" "Heh. Yeah, I go from place-to-place quite a bit. It seems you're the same way these days, too." Balthus said. And I laughed and said: "You've sure got that right. So how are you doing, Balthus? Are you okay?"

"Well yeah, I've got nothing to complain about whatsoever! We found Flayn's kidnapper last month and he got a solid beatdown he won't forget any time soon! Justice was finally served! But of equal importance is the fact that you're okay too. Those were an unnerving two weeks… we all thought we were going to lose ya for a while, but thank goodness that was wrong!" Balthus said before he went on: "Of course Yuri, Constance, Hapi and I were concerned about you—as were Ashe and Marianne—but it seemed like your original students took it the hardest… they were really starting to get kinda gloomy." And I smiled a little and said: "It makes me happy to hear that everyone was concerned like that. Thank you for letting me know, Balthus." "Heh. Anytime!" He replied. And then we said goodbye before I went off.

On the following day—the 8th— Francesca and I continued our work, although some excitement came our way very quickly: Mercedes and Ingrid joined our class that day! Once I was done working for the day, I went to the cathedral to offer my prayers to the goddess for the day. When I finished, I turned around to go, but then I heard a: "Ah, Professor. It's good to see you." It was Seteth. I turned to him and said: "Oh hello, Seteth. It's nice to see you around the monastery too." "Yes, my daily duties to keep my quite busy, but I like to get out when I can. But then, you know everything about that kind of routine yourself, don't you?" Seteth asked. "You bet!" I said back before I laughed (and Seteth smiled) before he went on: "But I'm glad I found you… I had something I wanted to say to you, Professor." "Okay, no problem. What is it?" I asked.

"Well first, I want to thank you for going to the lengths you did to protect Flayn and your class. It is a good thing it didn't come to it, but to think you were willing to make the ultimate sacrifice to protect both Flayn and your students… it was remarkable. You are truly noble, Professor." Seteth said. And before I could respond, he went on: "And I… I want to apologize for how I treated you when you first came here. I can see how unfair I was to you and it makes me feel a little embarrassed." "Thank you, Seteth. I will agree it felt a little uncalled for, but… I know you only were doing it to protect your family, and I can't blame you for that. That's a good quality to possess." I said before I went on: "But if you feel that way, I would appreciate it if you would offer that same apology to Francesca too. I'm sure she would also appreciate it."

And Seteth grinned and said: "I already have. I apologized to her weeks ago. Even so, it seems we both share the honorable quality of caring for our families. It's nice to finally have some common ground between us." "I agree. I'm glad we managed to discover that, after all that rather tense time of the past." I said. "Thank you, Professor. If you ever encounter any hardships and you need any guidance or support, please remember that I am happy to provide it." Seteth said. "I will keep that in mind. Thank you for telling me all this, Seteth." I said. "Of course. And thank you for your time, Professor. Enjoy your evening." He replied. And I nodded as he went off.

I continued my work until two days later, when another class session was out. Eventually I got ahead enough on my work to take a break and decided to go to the greenhouse for a change in scenery. When I arrived, I saw the plants here—even though we were in the middle of autumn, there still were some interesting ones to see. But I also saw Flayn was here! "Ah, Flayn!" I said before I approached her and she said: "Oh, Professor!" And then she said: "Well this is certainly a surprise! Do you like the plants in the greenhouse, Professor?" And I chuckled and said: "I mostly came for a change in scenery—Francesca's the one who loves plants." "I see. Well it seems like a fine choice if you're looking for a change in scenery, regardless!" Flayn said.

And then she went on: "By the way, I must thank you for all you've done for me in your class, Professor! You and Professor Francesca have been so helpful to me and such good educators!" "Oh, you're welcome. In all honesty though, you're showing promise yourself, Flayn. The way you approach being a member of the Church of Seiros, a family member, a student… they're all perfect, really. Your outlook is certainly insightful and you're quite perceptive." I said. "Ha ha! I am glad to hear that!" Flayn said.

And then I went on: "But I'm glad I found you… I've actually wanted to say something." And Flayn suddenly looked inquisitive as she said: "Oh? What is that?" "I… wanted to apologize for how rude I was to you in Garland Moon, Flayn. I can see how unfair I was to you to treat you like I did just because you wanted to learn more about me… it was stupid, really. Ever since you went missing last month, I desperately wanted to apologize about that." I said. "That is all? You really need to learn to let your wounds heal." Flayn said before I said: "Huh?" And Flayn went on: "To be honest, I had forgotten all about that for a while until you brought it back up… I will admit that at the time, I was truly curious as to why you would respond in such a way… but I did not hold it against you, nor did I hold a grudge. I imagined you must be carrying some great burden that would cause you to behave in such a fashion and I was rather curious, but I never once thought you were a bad person." "Flayn…" I said before she went on: "Professor, I am truly curious… what was the cause of your behavior at that time?"

And then I explained it to her. By the end, Flayn looked shocked and said: "So you were cursed by a wicked mage… and made to house a demon…" And then she shook her head and said: "Professor… I cannot believe what a strong person you are… to struggle with such an awful burden, with only your family to lean on for comfort as others avoided and neglected you unjustly… and yet to still turn out so well, I…" And then she said: "I am so sorry. I had no idea. Although I must say, you seem quite a bit better since the previous moons I have seen you. Happier, braver, more mature… you really have grown." And I chuckled and said: "Thank you, Flayn." "But I must wonder… if you feel like that, then would you consider repaying me by finally answering what I asked, all of those moons ago?" Flayn asked. And I smiled and said: "Yes, I'd be happy to."

"Ah, excellent! You really have come around, Professor! Well since you strike me as a devoted believer, when did you first learn about the Church of Seiros, Professor?" Flayn asked. "I was first aware of the Seiros faith when I was eight. The teachings of the faith and the fact that it had knights who served it were the things that first attracted me to it, although I came to like more about it as I continued to remain a believer." I replied. "Eight… that is an admirably young age, but… it is still a little later than most—" Flayn began before I said: "That's probably because Dad kept Francesca and I away from monasteries and churches when we were little. It limited what exposure we could get greatly." And then Flayn looked dumbfounded when she said: "Wait… your father kept you away from monasteries and churches? How strange… I never would have imagined Jeralt the Blade Breaker of all people would do such a thing…" "You're telling me! Still, I'm glad I got exposed to it in the end." I said back.

"How admirable, Professor. But on that note, did you enjoy working as a mercenary more? Or are you happier here at the monastery?" Flayn asked. "I'm definitely happier here at the monastery. I have no interest in going back to being a mercenary." I said back. And Flayn smiled before she said: "And to think you said that so readily… how reassuring. It seems you have found an environment in the monastery that is ideal for you." "Absolutely. Educating youths is a lot better than ending lives in wartime—and you have a lot more opportunities to have constructive interactions with people when you're in a monastery than on a battlefield. You also get to have a lot of good relationships and interactions and that may be the part of the job I like the most, after my childhood…" I said back before Flayn said: "Oh? Would you care to elaborate?" "I didn't have many friends growing up and neither did Francesca—most of the people we knew were in our mercenary troop. Even though it may have been a part of what made us so close, it was still lonely… but now I have a great deal of friends and I know many promising, benevolent souls. Having more than a handful of friends and people you respect is something I appreciate every day. The monastery has a wonderful sense of community for someone like me." I said back.

"I truly know what you mean, Professor. That is why I am very thankful to be here, just like you." Flayn said. "Oh really? Well with Seteth's highly protective nature, I suppose I can see that." I said before we laughed together and Flayn said: "Ah, you truly are fun to be around, Professor! I must thank you for explaining yourself to me. I will not hold you up any further, but I hope we may speak again sometime." "Of course. You can count on it, Flayn." I said before I said goodbye and left.

(Meanwhile…)

Byleth and Francesca continued working until the next day—the 11th—when they finished another class session. When it was out, Francesca headed to the marketplace, going around the dorms and through the fishing pond… but then she saw Hapi! And she looked much more cheerful than usual… Francesca approached her and said: "Hello, Hapi. You're looking cheerful today." And then Hapi turned to her and said: "Oh, Professor." And then she went on: "Well yes! We rescued Flayn! After she was kidnapped, we brought her back! Woo-hoo!" And before Francesca could respond, Hapi said: "And on top of that, Professor Byleth didn't die… that was such a relief." And Francesca smiled before she said: "That's very sweet of you, Hapi. I'm pleased to see you're concerned about him." "Well, his life is an important thing to be thankful for. Especially since I was just starting to get to know him better, he's… actually a really good addition to the church." Hapi replied.

And Francesca was still smiling before Hapi finally looked a little annoyed and said: "What are you so happy about? Is it really so amusing that I said I'm glad he wasn't dead?" "No, no, it's not like that. As his sister, I'm happy to see more people are in his corner." Francesca said before Hapi said: "You could easily check around the Black Eagles alone for that—there are lots of supporters of his in our house." And then she shook her head and said: "Dealing with you can really be odd sometimes, you know that, Professor?" And Francesca chuckled before Hapi said: "I think I'll get back to work now. See you, Professor." And then she went off as Francesca headed to the marketplace.

(Meanwhile…)

I continued my work until two days later, when I was out late in the training grounds… night had fallen some time ago and I was just about ready to wrap it up. I left the training grounds and headed out across to the dorms… but then I saw Hubert! I wasn't sure what he was doing out late, but I wasn't really concerned with that right now… I had something else on my mind. I approached him and said: "Ah, good evening, Hubert. It seems you're keeping busy again." And he turned to me and said: "Hello, Professor. Yes, I always do. You're doing the same I trust?" "Of course. I finished my routine in the training grounds quite recently." I said back before he said: "I see. So what compelled you to speak with me? Did you need something, Professor?" "Not officially, no. I merely wanted to talk to you for a minute." I said. "You want to talk to me?" Hubert said before he chuckled evilly and said: "That's certainly a rare occurrence. Not many people want to speak to me voluntarily…" And then he went on: "But I suppose I have time… what is this about?" "I wanted to thank you for what you said to me in Garland Moon… for when you encouraged me to be fair to all of my students. Looking back on the whole thing, you really had a point and I wasn't treating Edelgard and the others as I should have. That's part of what made me want to apologize to all of you earlier this month. What you said helped me grow as a person, so… thank you for your counsel. It really is remarkable how much you can learn from those who you teach." I said.

By the end of this, Hubert looked stunned before he said: "My own Professor, thanking me for helping him grow… I didn't expect this would happen." And then he went on: "I hope you understand that you still have a way to go before I will trust you, but assuming you are being honest… then I may be starting to see what Lady Edelgard saw in you at first. Such strength and yet, there is humility in you as well… and you really do care about improving in your personal affairs." And then he went on: "I will still be watching to see if you are worth Lady Edelgard's trust, but for now, I suppose I will thank you for that. And was there anything else, Professor?" "No. That was all I wanted to say." I said. "Hm… very well. Goodbye, then." Hubert said before I said: "Goodbye, Hubert." And I headed off.

The next day—on the 14th—I kept working until I finished up for the day and went to say my prayers at the cathedral at dusk. I said my prayers before the altar and left, but soon I saw Aelfric here… and it seemed he noticed me too, yet when he did, he looked at me in disbelief before he said: "Professor Byleth? Is that you?" And then I chuckled and said: "Hello, Aelfric. I can't say I'm surprised by your reaction—I got a lot of that at the start of this moon." "A-ha… I can't believe it. I've never seen someone's hair and eye color change…" Aelfric said before he approached me and said: "Forgive my shock, it's just that I've never seen anything like this… you say your hair and eyes have looked this way since the start of this moon?"

"That's right. Pretty different, aren't they?" I asked. "They are on you, yes. But in truth, this is not the first time I have seen someone with that hair and eye color… Sitri had the exact same hair color and eye color too." Aelfric said. Before I said: "Sitri?" And then Aelfric said: "Ah, I apologize. I suppose you wouldn't recognize that name. Sitri was actually your mother's name." Aelfric replied.

And then he went on: "She must be very happy, looking down on you bearing some of her features. Forgive me, Professor Byleth, but I am curious… how did your hair color and eye color change to Sitri's?" And then I explained it to him as I had to Francesca. By the end of it, he looked fascinated and said: "So it was as a side effect of a treatment you received… I have never heard of such a thing. It never ceases to amaze me how many new things I discover with each passing year." And then he went on: "But I suppose that's a subject of little relevance. Tell me Professor, how much have you heard about your mother?" "Not much… my father gave me some details about her." I said back. I felt a little bad saying this, but I guess I didn't really lie, seeing as how all I had "heard" about her was what he had told me.

And yet, Aelfric looked disappointed before he said: "Goodness, he only gave you 'some' detail? How awful… did he even mention what I said about you bearing Sitri's hair and eye color?" "Nope. Not at all." I said back. And then he shut his eyes as he said: "Ugh… Jeralt, how could you?" And then he opened them and said: "Well I suppose you must be rather curious then… do you want me to fill you in about her?" "Of course. That is a subject of great interest to me." I said back. And Aelfric smiled as he said: "Good answer. I'm sure Sitri would be pleased to hear that as well. Well then, let me begin…"

And then he told me more about Mom. He included all of the details that Dad did, although there was some new information in what he said, including that she was often found in the library as well as the greenhouse… in addition to flowers, apparently she loved reading almost as much too. He told me Mom had dreamt of travelling before she had met Dad and was active in worship herself. The main thing I noticed however, was how he looked when he talked about her… he looked so happy when he spoke of anything she did and said her smile was the "most beautiful thing he had ever seen"…

By the end of it, Aelfric chuckled and said: "Ah, it seems I went into a bit more detail than I intended to. Forgive me for going on too long." "Not at all, Aelfric. I really appreciate you telling me more about Mom. I always want to learn more about what she was like… I never knew for myself." I said back. "A-heh-heh-heh… you certainly do care about your mother, even now. That too must please Sitri. You're a good son, Professor Byleth." Aelfric said. And then he went on: "Forgive me for asking this, Professor Byleth, but Sitri had an interest in travelling and yet you have planted down your roots here in the monastery… do you not regret that decision? You had the chance to go anywhere as a mercenary."

"Aelfric…" I said before I went on: "Your question betrays a lack of understanding about the realities of a mercenary. That's not what it's like being one. When you're a mercenary, you don't get to go where you want, you go where your employer is. You also don't get to choose how long you stay or what you see, you stay there as long as a war's on and your only priority in being there is to win in that war, not to sightsee. You also don't get a chance to interact with the inhabitants or to experience what their lives are like." And then I continued: "Besides, Mom made the choice to stay at the monastery—rather than leave and travel—when she was pregnant, didn't she? Even though I started out living differently—constantly being on the move, rather than staying in one place—I made the same decision to settle in one place and experience a better life when I had the chance. That's why I consider what I have done to be quite the same. And I don't regret it for a second."

"I see… forgive my previous remarks, Professor. I suppose I lacked context for the difference between what Sitri once dreamed of and what you left behind. Still though, to think you ended up in the same place where your mother started… it's a truly incredible coincidence." Aelfric said. And then I chuckled before he said: "Thank you for sharing your perspective and listening to me, Professor. I hope to see you again." "Yes, thank you for sharing what you knew about Mom, Aelfric. That was important to me. I'll see you around!" I said before we left.

(Meanwhile…)

Francesca and Byleth continued working to teach their students. In two days when their class session ended, her students started to leave and Francesca prepared to go too… but then she noticed Marianne was still at her desk. When she saw this, Francesca approached Marianne and said: "Marianne? Are you alright? It's not normal for you to stay behind like this…" And then Marianne looked up and said: "Oh, Professor…" And then she went on: "Yes, I'm okay… I've just been thinking about something lately…" "Is it something I can help with?" Francesca asked before Marianne said: "Yes, I think I will have to talk to you or Professor Byleth about it eventually." And then she went on: "Do you think it would reflect poorly on me if I didn't participate in the Battle of the Eagle and Lion?"

"The Battle of the Eagle and Lion is one of the most important events of the academic year, Marianne. Do you have a good reason for abstaining?" Francesca asked before Marianne said: "Well, I don't really like to leave the monastery…" "I'm sorry, but that isn't a valid reason for excusing you from the Battle of the Eagle and Lion. And you're going to be participating, Marianne—your magic is an asset to the team and everyone is depending on you for support, especially when we have a small population of healers in the Black Eagles. We need your help and we're counting on you." Francesca said. Yet when she finished, Marianne looked very intrigued and said: "I wasn't expecting you to say that… you really think I'm that good?" "I do. You have remarkable talent and the experience of going to Gronder Field and having the battle won't be the same if our entire class isn't together. Wouldn't you agree?" Francesca asked.

Yet by now, Marianne actually looked happy before she said: "I have trouble thinking in those terms, but your encouragement's left me feeling much better about it." And then she went on: "Thank you, Professor Francesca. Please forget what I said before—I'll participate in the Battle of the Eagle and Lion and I'll do my best for you and Professor Byleth." And Francesca grinned and said: "Good answer. Then I look forward to seeing your skills on display when we get there… and us, winning as a team." And Marianne nodded and left.

(Meanwhile…)

Two days later—on the 18th—I went to the marketplace after another class session ended to restock our supplies, particularly as the Battle of the Eagle and Lion was less than a week away. I bought some concoctions and strengthened some of our weapons before I prepared to go back to the monastery… but then I saw Alois walking up the gates! When I saw him, I approached him and said: "Ah, hello Alois! I haven't seen you in a while." And he looked at me before he said: "Huh? Who—"

And then he went on: "Oh wait… Professor Byleth?! What in the world happened to you?!" I explained it to him as I had to everyone else before Alois said: "I see… this treatment you received must have been a miraculous one, to pull you back from the brink of death like that…" And then he went on: "Well I'm just glad to see you survived—I still remember at the end of Horsebow Moon when everyone was saying you were most likely going to die… I had to leave on my mission for Wyvern Moon before I even knew whether or not you were dead, although thank the goddess it didn't come to that!"

And then he continued: "I only just now came back, so to see you alive now is… it's such a relief. Although I never expected you were going to look like this if you were alive when I returned. It looks like you decided to go green with your hair and eyes all of a sudden, hm?" And he chuckled before I forced a laugh and Alois said: "But really though… this is such a great thing for Captain Jeralt and Francesca… I know this means the world to them. I'm sorry I couldn't be there to help you on your mission last month, Professor… if I ever meet that Death Knight, I'll…!" And then I smiled and said: "It's fine, Alois. Please don't worry about it. Out of curiosity though… where did this come from all of a sudden? You seem to be worrying a lot and taking this awfully personally…" "Oh yes, well… Captain Jeralt has been a close friend and a mentor to me for a long time, so that's why I'm concerned for you and Francesca." Alois said before he laughed and said: "I'm sure it must sound ridiculous, worrying about someone else's children who you have known for so little time, but after all Jeralt's done for me, I want to make sure you and Francesca stay safe and comfortable in the monastery. That's why I never want to see anything happen to you or Francesca. It's… just like that."

And I smiled before I said: "Thank you, Alois. I appreciate your loyalty to Dad, as well as you being kind to Francesca and I. It makes me feel better knowing we have someone like that in our corner…" "Of course! Please let me know if I can help you, Professor—I'd like to if I can. I suppose I can't this month… but at least now that my mission's over, I can be among the faculty to observe the Battle of the Eagle and Lion! I'll be rooting for your house to get the win, mark my words!" Alois said. "Ha! Thanks for the sentiment, Alois. Francesca and I will make sure to prepare so it's not in vain." I said and Alois said: "Good man! Then I wish you luck, Professor!" And he went off while I went back to my responsibilities.

From there, it was only a matter of time until the 24th came and we had to depart for Gronder Field… we left the monastery, traveling through the Leicester Alliance, across the Airmid River, over the Great Bridge of Myrddin and finally, into the Adrestian Empire into Gronder Field itself… it was as wide and enormous as Francesca and I had read it was… the area had a central hill and the rest of the terrain was flat on all sides, making the hill advantageous positioning for archers.

When we arrived, it was announced that each house would receive instruction as to where they were going to start fighting from on Gronder Field one-by-one and that we were allowed to meet as a team to discuss our strategy before the battle—the faculty had brought horns that were audible from a great distance away to alert us that it was time to take our positions before the battle started and to begin fighting once we were in position after that. They also announced that the Blue Lions and Golden Deer were going to be given squires to participate in the battle, since our house had a one-sided advantage in sheer numbers. Once we received this instruction, we also were given training weapons in the types that each of us used and the houses separated into groups away from one another. When we were away from the Blue Lion House and the Golden Deer House, we started our meeting. Everyone grouped up in the back of a forest in a sunny clearing, yet Constance was staying firmly under the trees… she didn't seem intent on moving, either.

Edelgard looked around before she said: "So this is Gronder Field… the location where the Kingdom won its independence from the Empire so long ago…" And then she went on: "It's quite an experience getting to see it with my own eyes. Not that the Empire will be losing this battle, eh, Professor Byleth? Professor Francesca?" "Of course not! We're more than ready to win this! All the same though, we shouldn't underestimate our opponents either—" I said and then Francesca said: "Nor should we overlook the ballista on the central hill. Whichever house seizes control of it first will be at a big advantage over the other two." "Definitely! That'll make it a good place for me or Bernadetta to be—I'll handle any enemies that come our way!" Ashe said before Bernadetta said: "Um… yeah, I'm ready to do so too… but to be honest, it's harder to think of shooting at classmates, rather than bandits or thugs…" "I understand, Bern. But remember that no one's going to die in this battle, so it's not that serious. Just think of it like a training exercise." Dorothea said. And then Bernadetta perked up a little and said: "A training exercise… yeah, that's exactly the right way to look at it. Just like the mock battle. Thanks, Dorothea."

And Dorothea chuckled before I turned to Constance and said: "Hey, Constance! We're about to start discussing tactics! Come on over!" "I'm sorry, but… I can't…" Constance said before I said: "It's a little late for an 'I can't', Constance! Come on! We're losing time!" "Well if that's the case, why don't you come where I am instead?" Constance asked before Francesca frowned and said: "If we move to where you are, we'll be getting closer to where we're in earshot of the other houses! Just get over here, Constance!" And then Constance frowned before she said: "Fine, fine! I'll come out just for you! Satisfied?!"

And then she stepped into the sunlight, but when she did, she suddenly looked gloomy… "Constance? Whatever are you doing?" Flayn asked before Constance looked up at Francesca and I and said: "Oh, Professor Byleth, Professor Francesca… I can see my inconsiderate remarks were very rude to you and the others… I'm so dreadfully sorry…" "What are you talking about…? Constance, what's gotten into you?" Francesca asked before Hapi said: "Coco's always like this when she's in the sunlight. Don't worry, it's happened before." "Um… okay. Then why don't you come on over, Constance? No time to start our meeting like the present, wouldn't you say?" I asked before she said: "Yes, Professor. I will contribute all that I can, though I am certain my contributions won't equal those of my allies…" I didn't understand how she could be so negative, but looking at this… it reminded me of how I used to be in previous months… it was like watching myself, in a sense… what an existential experience. As someone who could empathize with this, it made me feel bad for Constance though…

And then she approached us and I said: "Now then, as we were saying, the house that secures the ballista will be at the biggest advantage. Of course—in order to keep control of it—we will need to dispatch forces to guard the ballista as well as to attack enemies in locations where the ballista's arrows can't reach. That being said, we're going to need three teams to retain the upper hand in this battle. That being said, let's discuss how the teams will be divided now…"

And then Francesca and I spoke with everyone about our plans, including our best-case scenario plan and contingency plans. We went over several (which we color-coded, so we could announce them to our teammates without tipping the other houses off) before we heard an: "Excuse me…" And we looked up to see a knight. "Yes? Are you here to inform us of our starting position?" I asked before the knight said: "That's correct. I'll tell you now. It's…"

And then he told us where we would be starting… we were assigned to start at the northern end of the field, where a wall of forest was on either side of us, but it was still a favorable position nonetheless. It was possible to make a charge in a straight line to where either one of the other teams were starting, which was useful too. Once the knight relayed the information to us, we thanked him and he left. Then we went back to our planning, but it didn't last long—soon we heard the tune of a horned instrument! I guess we must have been the last house they had to talk to…

We all hurried to the field and got into our positions: as we had planned, we divided our house into three teams, one led by me, one led by Francesca and one led by Edelgard. My team had Dorothea, Mercedes, Ingrid, Ferdinand and Yuri and was stationed by the far left side, Francesca's team had Petra, Linhardt, Caspar, Flayn and Hapi and was stationed to the far right side and Edelgard's team had Ashe, Bernadetta, Marianne, Hubert, Balthus and Constance and was stationed in the center. Edelgard's team was across from the central hill, Francesca's team was across from the Golden Deer and my team was across from the Blue Lions. The Golden Deer were mostly surrounded by forest terrain, while the Blue Lions had no forest immediately around them, but I did see that some of their fighters got to start on the central hill, including a squire who was an archer! That was a pretty one-sided advantage they had been given…

Nonetheless, we took our positions and waited for the sound of the horns again. Once we heard them, I saw Edelgard look at me (per our arrangement) and I yelled: "Plan orange!" And then she turned to yell the plan code at Francesca before we all ran at our targets. Under this plan, we were each attacking the targets that were directly across from our teams.

The squire at the top of the hill opened fire on us pretty quickly once the battle started, but Mercedes helped to undo the damage nicely. When we got to the Blue Lion's side, we saw that most of the people stationed there were squires, but we did recognize Dedue… unfortunately, many of the squires were heavily armored, as was common in Faerghus. Against so many of them, I knew Dorothea and Mercedes were our only chance. "Ingrid, Ferdinand, Yuri! Choose a target and don't let up!" I said as we each ran at one of the heavily armored squires we faced… the problem was that there weren't enough of us to engage each one of them, but only one of them was free to attack Dorothea and Mercedes, so I didn't doubt they would destroy him quickly before covering us.

I engaged Dedue directly and approached him before we fought for a bit… eventually I heard Yuri say: "Uh, Professor? Ingrid's looking a little worse for wear and… so am I…" And I yelled back: "Hold your position! Protect Dorothea and Mercedes!" And I heard Yuri say: "Y-yes, Professor!" And I continued to attack Dedue… eventually, I got him at a weak point (though since my weapon was a training weapon, it wasn't nearly as effective…) before Dedue smacked me with his training axe… eventually I nailed him again, but it came with some bad news… Dimitri didn't seem too fond of my slow yet steady success attacking Dedue, because he came charging at me! I knew my job was going to get a lot harder now… but then I saw him get knocked down by a giant arrow! That timing, it was far too perfect and it was aimed at far too important of an enemy… I guess Edelgard's team must have taken control of the ballista! I heard Dedue say: "Your highness!" and I finished him off with aura magic before I felt my strength returning… it looks like Dorothea or Mercedes had finally gotten a moment to heal me! By now Dimitri had gotten up and he ran at me again, but he got hit by a bolt of lightning before I ran in and my other students ganged up on him and we finished him off!

I turned around and saw everyone was alright and that the last of the Blue Lions' forces that were stationed here were finished off! When I saw this, I smiled and said: "Excellent work, everyone! Now let's rendezvous with Francesca's team and finish off the Golden Deer! Hurry!" And we ran off towards the Golden Deer's side, but before we arrived, we heard the horns, signaling the battle was over! I smiled as we went back to the central hill (where I saw Edelgard's team was stationed) and we saw the other classes' students and squires who had withdrawn standing there as well… when all three classes were back together again, we saw Seteth before us and he said: "That is the end of this year's Battle of the Eagle and Lion! And the winners of the year 1180 Battle of the Eagle and Lion are… the Black Eagles!"

And our side cheered, but when I heard the announcement… I felt all of my excitement and pride in my students welling up! When everyone quieted down, I heard Edelgard say: "That was a splendid victory. We should all be proud of what our teamwork accomplished today, shouldn't we, Professor Byleth?" But I couldn't respond and I heard her say: "Um… Professor?" And then I felt a smile come to my face as I said: "We did it! The mission was an all-out success!"

And I hugged each member of our team. I couldn't help it… I was so excited for everyone! Once I finished, I said: "Good work, everyone! You really did us proud! Because of our teamwork, the Black Eagles have bared their talons and hunted down every last competitor! I can't even begin to express how excited I am to see how much further you'll go! Continue to soar to new heights on your adventure this year!" And everyone looked happy before Seteth said: "It was an excellent battle this year and all houses and their students should be proud. And now that this year's Battle of the Eagle and Lion has reached its conclusion, all houses should take a break to heal all of their participants before we prepare to return to the monastery. Please return to your designated locations and prepare for departure. Return here once you've finished."

And we headed back to the sunny clearing where Linhardt, Mercedes, Dorothea, Marianne, Constance, Hapi and I all healed everyone who had sustained damage and we headed back to the battleground before the Blue Lions and the Golden Deer returned and we headed back to the monastery.

We returned in a couple of days at noon. Once we made it into the marketplace (and the Blue Lions and Golden Deer went off) Francesca and I turned to our class and she said: "Alright everyone! That was some great work at Gronder Field! Professor Byleth and I will be going to pick up our prize for our victory in the battle after dinner tonight, so take a load off and try to relax for now—you've earned it! You're dismissed until further notice." And then everyone nodded and dispersed before Francesca turned to me and said: "Well that was certainly an exciting way to make a name for ourselves as professors this early on—it was our first Battle of the Eagle and Lion and we won it!" And then I smiled and said: "I knew we'd pull through. Everyone did a really good job working together too." "That's absolutely true, Professor Byleth. It makes me happy to see them coming together smoothly and our work paying off." Francesca said. And then she went on: "For now though, we'd better keep up the good work, so we stay ahead. It pays to keep up our good showing, wouldn't you say?" And I smiled and said: "Absolutely." Before we got back to work.

We kept working until dinnertime came and we headed to the dining hall, where we enjoyed a meal with our class, celebrating our success together before Francesca and I left early and went to the audience chamber. When we arrived, we headed up by the side room Rhea was in and checked it… and saw she was there! "Ah, good evening, Lady Rhea—" I began before she looked up and said: "Oh, Professor Byleth, Professor Francesca! What excellent timing." And then she went on: "I was about to send a messenger to retrieve you, but now you've come at just the right time—I was hoping to offer you your reward for winning the Battle of the Eagle and Lion. I'm assuming you're available for that?" "We certainly are! We came to check if you would be open to doing just that!" I said before Rhea chuckled and said: "It seems we had the same idea at the same time. Well then, I'll send someone to retrieve it for you. Please, come with me…"

And then we headed back into the audience chamber before Rhea went across the hall… and into Seteth's office. When we stepped in, we saw Seteth was there and Rhea said: "Hello, Seteth." And then he looked up before he said: "Ah, hello Lady Rhea… and Professor Byleth and Professor Francesca too, by the looks of it." And then he looked at Rhea before he said: "If you're all here, I trust it's time to retrieve their—" and then Rhea said: "Yes, Seteth. Please do so at once." "Understood. I'll be back." Seteth said.

And then he went off while Rhea turned to us and said: "Please come with me back to the audience chamber while we wait. We can discuss your accomplishment there." And Francesca and I nodded before we went back and Rhea praised us a bit until Seteth said: "Here they are, Lady Rhea…" And we turned around before I saw the reward they had been talking about… they were strange knuckle weapons, but… they looked like they were made of a strange alloy that I had never seen… like a Heroes' Relic! "Wait a minute… are these… a Heroes' Relic?!" Francesca said and Rhea said: "Yes, they are. These gauntlets are known as Vajra-Mushti. They are a highly powerful hand-to-hand weapon. Just be warned that as is the case with Heroes' Relics, these are a crest stone weapon as well. They have been in a vault in the church for some time and normally we would never hand them out as a reward for winning the Battle of the Eagle and Lion, but I am willing to make an exception for you. Go on and take them—they will serve you well."

And then Francesca took them as I said: "Thank you, Lady Rhea! We will keep them safe and make sure they get used to the greatest effect they can!" "Good. I am pleased I can count on you." Rhea said.

And then she went on: "I will inform you of what your next monthly mission is at the beginning of the next moon. Until then, please continue your work as model educators." "We will! Leave it to us, Lady Rhea!" Francesca said before Rhea said: "Good. Then I look forward to seeing what you'll accomplish. You're dismissed."

And then we left the audience chamber, but we didn't get far—as we were heading to the stairs to the ground floor, we saw our students come up from them! When they were all before us, I said: "Well hey, everybody. We sure weren't expecting to see you here!" And then Hubert chuckled and said: "I am certain that's true. And that certainly makes this all the more amusing." And then Edelgard chuckled and said: "Forgive us, Professor Byleth, Professor Francesca, but we wanted to congratulate and thank you after our victory in the Battle of the Eagle and Lion."

"That's right! Your command made that easy, Professor Byleth, Professor Francesca! That's our professors, pulling us through everything!" Caspar said. "And having been under your command in the Battle of the Eagle and Lion, Professor Byleth, Professor Francesca—it makes me realize I made the right choice joining your house. Not only for friends and a superior education, but if I had still been with the Blue Lions during that battle… I don't want to think about how that would have gone." Ashe said before we laughed and Marianne said: "I feel the same. I actually felt better about travelling and fighting alongside all of you than I did with my former class." "And we got to experience something truly special, joining in with your class and getting to undergo such a thrill. When I think about the dull things we would have been doing if we hadn't joined your class… it's hard to imagine now." Yuri said.

"That is true, although the battle was not all… you had been in… uh… were in high spirits when we won, Professor." Petra said and then Dorothea giggled and said: "I'll say! I hadn't ever seen you so jovial before—you were even more overjoyed then than when we won the mock battle in the Great Tree Moon—and you were excited then! It was… actually nice to see." "I agree. To be completely honest, seeing you that happy, Professor… it was quite a reward unto itself." Edelgard said.

And then we all smiled before Ingrid said: "Come to think of it… what's that you have there, Professor?" And she pointed at the Vajra-Mushti Francesca was carrying before Francesca said: "It's our reward for winning. It's a crest stone weapon, so be mindful of it." "They handed you a Heroes' Relic just like that for winning the Battle of the Eagle and Lion? It's clear that Lady Rhea really trusts you both…" Linhardt said and Constance said: "Well it clearly shall serve us well! Let us use it to reach new heights in our missions!" "Well said, Constance. We'll keep up our success streak for sure!" I said before we all talked for a bit and everyone cleared out… except for Balthus.

When everyone else was gone, he approached us and said: "Nice relic there, Professors. To think you got your hands on the Vajra-Mushti…" And then Francesca and I were stunned before I said: "How did you know its name?" And Balthus laughed and said: "Truth be told, where I was born, I was taught about that very relic. Even though few people know about it all the way out here, in my ol' hometown, it was common knowledge. One thing you should know about it is that it won't be easy to match it to its own crest—that weapon's crest is the Crest of Chevalier."

Chevalier… I was surprised he knew who that was. Chevalier was one of four historically important people in the Seiros faith, yet wasn't particularly well-known… Chevalier wasn't a saint, like the Four Saints, but instead was known as one of the Four Apostles. Chevalier had cooperated with the other three—Aubin, Noa and Timotheos—in a ritual centuries ago to try to resurrect a dead individual, using an artifact known as the Chalice of Beginnings, but… the ritual itself failed. After that, it was said that the Four Apostles left civilization, going far, far from it to live alone. The details regarding their story from that point on were unknown.

"If that's the case, saying it 'won't be easy' is a bit of a stretch… that bloodline is gone. No one has his crest now." I said back. "That's not true—though it's far from common, Chevalier's blood still circulates in the veins of a select few living people, some of whom have inherited the crest… like me for one." Balthus said. And Francesca and I didn't respond for a little while before I finally said: "…Is that so?" And Balthus said: "It is. So how about you consider letting me use it? I know it's safe for anyone with a crest to use, but it's strongest in my hands." "I'm sorry Balthus, but I have to ask: you're not planning on selling this Heroes' Relic off just to pay off your debts, are you?" Francesca asked.

When I heard this, I was suddenly uncomfortable as Balthus frowned and said: "Of course not! Just who do you think I am?! If it circulated into the general public, there's no telling what disasters could ensue—people could die, crestless people could get turned into demonic beasts—all kinds of disastrous stuff. All I'm asking is that you consider letting me use it in battle. That's all." "…Alright. We'll consider it then." I said before Balthus said: "Thank you. I appreciate that." And then he went on: "Well I'll go now, but before I do… great job out there, Professor Byleth, Professor Francesca." And then he took off before I turned to Francesca and said: "He has debts?" And she nodded and said: "He does…" And I shook my head before we headed back.

From there, we continued our work and it wasn't long until the next moon came… Red Wolf Moon.