Chapter 3
A New Task
Once the group exited the forest, Garreg Mach Monastery came into view. It stood at the top of a mountain, and based on how far the mountain way, the monastery was likely humongous. N marveled at the sight. He had heard about the monastery, but had never actually seen it. He could only wonder what was held within the structure.
The group followed the path towards the monastery and N kept his eyes forwards. He wanted to memorize the view, as it was a new experience for him. The three students next to him could not help but chuckle at N, while Byleth looked on with indifference.
When they reached the main gate, the students said their goodbye's as they walked away. N waved more enthusiastically, while Byleth simply rose her hand. N, Byleth and Jeralt were then escorted by knights farther into the the monastery. As they passed the main gate, Jeralt stopped walking and looked up.
"Rhea's here…" he muttered.
Byleth and N looked up to see a woman staring down towards them. She seemed to stare at all three of them, but her gaze seemed more focused on Byleth than anyone else. N turned towards Byleth to see her staring back towards her. He told himself a joke about a staring contest and tried hard to not to laugh at it. He composed himself as they continued to walk. N spared a glance towards Jeralt, who seemed ever more disgruntled after seeing the woman, Rhea. He had to wonder if something had happened between them.
The three finally arrived at their destination, which seemed to be a large reception hall. N looked around the see several small statutes and other items on stands, and a door that likely led to another room. In front was a chair that almost looked like a throne. Behind it was a stained glass window. The image on it seemed somewhat familiar to N. He narrowed his gaze to get a better view and seemed to see a white creature standing behind a woman.
"It's been years since I last set eyes on this place," Jeralt said, breaking N from his thoughts. "To be forced to see her now…"
"You've been here before?" Byleth asked.
"Do you mean that woman from before, Rhea?" N added.
"I haven't told you this, but many years ago I was a knight here. I reported to the archbishop, Lady Rhea; the woman from before," Jeralt said, answering both questions at once. He went on to explain how the Knights of Seiros were part of the Church of Seiros, the preeminent religion in Fodlan. He also explained how Rhea was the archbishop, therefore its leader.
The sound of footsteps approaching, stopped their conversation. In walked in Rhea. She had green hair which was adorned with a floral headpiece, and wore a white dress with a blue and gold cape draped on her shoulders. Next to her was a man with green hair as well, and wore similar colored clothes to Rhea. N glanced towards his hair, it was green too, but a lighter shade. He absentmindedly grabbed a strand.
"Thank you for your patience, Jeralt. I'm Seteth, an advisor to the archbishop," Seteth said.
"Right. Hello," Jeralt replied.
"It's been a long time, Jeralt. I wonder, was it the will of the goddess that we have another chance to meet?" Rhea asked.
Goddess? N thought.
"Forgive my silence throughout all these years. Much has happened since we last spoke," Jeralt said, adding a short bow.
"So I see. The miracle of fatherhood has bless you. These are your children, right?" Rhea asked. Her gaze shifting between N and Byleth.
"Sorry to interrupt, but it's just her," N said pointing at Byleth. "I'm just a member of the band. I am the youngest, though."
"He's right. He's not my child. It's only Byleth. She was born after I left this place. I wish I could introduce you to her mother, but we lost her to illness," Jeralt said.
This is the first time I've heard anything regarding Byleth's birth. Does that mean we're the same age then? N thought.
"I see. My condolences. As for you, well, both of you, I heard of your valiant efforts from Alois. One of you is skilled with a blade, the other knows much about the creatures. May I ask for your names?" Rhea asked. Her gaze landing on N first.
"Well, uh, I'm N."
"N? That can't be your name," Seteth said, eyebrow raising.
"It's the only name I go by. I don't know if I have a real name," N explained.
"I see. I understand," Rhea said with a an understanding nod. "What about you?" she asked turing to Byleth.
"My name is Byleth."
"What a fine name. I'm Rhea, the archbishop of the Church of Seiros. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for saving those students of the Officer's Academy."
She seems too kind. It's like her voice is meant to soothe, but her actions are likely a contradiction, N thought.
Jeralt let out a disgruntled sigh.
"Jeralt. You already know what I wish to say, don't you?"
Jeralt let out another sigh. "You want me to rejoin the Knights of Seiros. I won't say no, but…" His voice trailed off.
N could tell that Jeralt did not want to return, but it seemed there was not much he could do about it. N could leave if he wanted to, but he had stuck around this long, so he was not going to leave Jeralt and Byleth now. He could hear Zorua growl lowly. He pet the fox perched on his shoulder to calm it down. It seemed even Zorua had its apprehensions about Rhea.
"Your apprehension stings. I had expected Alois to have already asked you this." She then turned to Byleth and N. "I must step away for now, but I expect they will want to have a word with you two soon. Please listen carefully to what they have to say. Until tomorrow, farewell."
She then walked away with Seteth, leaving the three in the room.
"I can't believe it, forced back into the Knights of Seiros. Sorry to drag both of you into this," Jeralt said turning to the two. "Looks like I'll be stuck here for a while, and I'm afraid your services are requested as well."
"Services?" N asked.
"What do they want us to do?" Byleth added.
"They want you to teach from the sound of it," Jeralt replied.
"Teach?" the two asked at the same time.
"You heard those brats from before mention the Officer's Academy, right? The academy happens to be short a professor. Apparently that damned Alois recommended the two of you to Lady Rhea." Jeralt continued.
"So, you must be the new professor. My, how stern and handsome you are," a female voice said.
The three turned to see a woman with light brown hair, wearing a rather provocative dress and a white coat draped over. Next to her was a man with grey hair and had a monocle. He wore a brown colored suit with a similarly colored coat over it.
"Uh, no. I'm not the one you're looking for," Jeralt replied. He then turned to Byleth and N. "You two can take it from here. Good luck." He turned to leave, but muttered something only Byleth and N could hear. "Watch out for Lady Rhea. I don't know what she's thinking making you two professors. She may be up to something, so keep your guards up."
Blyeth and N nodded in response and watched as Jeralt exited the audience chamber. They turned back to the people that had just entered the room. They seemed to be studying them.
"Oh, so it's both of you, then? So young…" the woman said.
"Competence and age aren't necessarily correlated, as you well know," the man replied to the woman. He then turned to the two. "I'm Hanneman. A crest scholar and professor at the Officer's Academy. I wonder if either of have a crest. When you have a moment to spare, I insist you pay me a visit so we can delve into the matter."
N made a mental note to steer clear of him. He had an idea of what crests were and the power they held, but knew he did not have one. Plus, he was not sure if studying himself was the best idea.
"I'm Manuela. I'm a professor, a physician, a songstress, and available." Her eyes darted to N when she finished her statement. N cringed a bit under her gaze. "It's nice to meet you."
N tried his best to avoid making eye contact with her. He felt more uncomfortable than ever before when she would look towards him. While Byleth asked about the songstress part she had mentioned. Manuela replied by saying it was her former profession, and that now she was the school's nurse. N made another mental note to avoid her as well, only to interact when absolutely necessary.
"Spare our new colleagues the needless chatter, Manuela," Hanneman said to get the conversation back on track.
Hanneman went on the explain how the classes were divided into three houses and how one of them was supposed to take charge of one of them. N rose an eyebrow. He seemed to be talk to Byleth specifically about taking charge of one of the houses. N wondered what his role would be when he was suggested to become a professor.
Manuela then explained the three different houses. Each house was affiliated to the country of the student's origin. The Black Staraptor House was for students who hailed from the Adrestian Empire. The Blue Pyroar House was for students from the Holy Kingdom of Faerghus. Finally, the Golden Stantler House was for students of the Leicester Alliance. The leaders for the three houses were the nobles the two had met before, with Edelgard being the next Empress, Dimitri the next King, and Claude being the next regent of their respective nations.
Glad none of them died, N thought.
"This year sure seems promising," Hanneman mused.
"I'll say. I just hope none of the little treasures cause anymore trouble," Manuela added.
"Quite. For now, I'd say take a stroll around the academy to get your bearings. When you have a chance please stop by my office," Hanneman said, turning to Byleth and N.
"He's right. Keep in mind that we only told the house leaders that you're our new professor. It's more fun that way," Manuela added.
There it is again. They're looking directly at Byleth. No one's told me what my role is going be here, N thought.
"I suggest both of you get to know the other students. Some odd ducks in the bunch, but they mean well. I'm sure Lady Rhea will have more information for you tomorrow, but for now that should get you going. Good luck." Manuela continued.
When the two finished, the exited the audience chamber leaving only Byleth and N. The two looked at each other and shrugged.
"Might as well do what they said," N said.
Byleth nodded in response and the two walked out of the chamber. "Though, they didn't say what you're going to do."
"I know. They left before I could ask anything," N said.
The walked towards the main hall and found it full of students and knights alike. N was sure this place was like a whole other nation all to itself. As they walked through, they spotted Edelgard at the end of the hall, Rufflet perched on her shoulder.
"Hey, Edelgard!" N called out.
The white haired girl turned and gave a small wave. She politely bowed when the they were face to face.
"So, both of you accepted a teaching position here. Pity, I'd hoped you'd lend your strength to the Empire," Edelgard said.
N laughed sheepishly. "Well, not really accept, more like thrusted upon."
Byleth nodded in agreement.
"I see. I never properly introduced myself, did I? I'm Edelgard von Hresvelg. I'm the princess and heir apparent to the Adrestian Empire. I wonder if you'll be tasked with leading the Black Staraptors…" Edelgard said, her voice trailing off.
"Well, I won't be teaching any of the houses. Just Byleth will," N explained. "Still not entirely sure what I'll be doing."
"Whatever you end up doing, I do hope you'll support the us throughout the year."
"Of course. That is a teacher's job after all."
She then went on to describe each of the members of her house. Hubert was her right hand man and his partner is a Ghastly. Ferdinand was someone who was always trying to compete with Edelgard. His partner is an odd looking Farfetch'd. Linhardt was one of the lazier students. His partner is a Munna. Caspar was more energetic, always looking for a fight. His partner is a Drilbur. Bernadetta was a shyer than most, always hiding in her bedroom. Her partner is a Mimikyu. Dorothea was an outgoing girl from a commoner background. She was a songstress like Manuela. Her partner is a Buneary. Finally, there was Petra. She was from an island nation affiliated with the Adrestian Empire. She was still grasping the mainland's language. Her partner is a Froakie.
With Edelgar's explanations, N and Byleth were able to get a better sense of who everyone in the house was. N wondered how their bonds with their partners were and was curious about the one called Ferdinand's Farfetch'd.
"That's everyone. If you get the chance to meet them, you'll get to know them better," Edelgard said.
"I see. I'm curious to get to know them," N replied.
Byleth agreed with N using a nod.
"Please do consider leading the Black Staraptor's."
The three said their goodbyes and N and Byleth continued to walk. However, a lot of the areas seemed closed off the them. The knights guarding the doors would let them pass, calling them new students. Though one guard seemed more approachable. At his side was a Watchog, a rodent looking creature with white, red, and yellow fur. The yellow was in the form of stripes around its body. Its unflinching gaze seemed to pierce through the two.
The guard introduced himself as the one in charge of watching the entrance. Though he seemed to try to make the most of such a mundane job. N asked where all the students were and was told they were at the classrooms. Getting the directions, they thanked the guard and made their way to the classrooms.
Exiting the main hall, they found where the classrooms were located. Walking about were other students from the academy from all the houses. They found Claude standing by his House's classroom, at his side was his, now fully healed, Deerling. N called out to him and Claude waved back enthusiastically.
"Scored a teaching gig, didja? Talk about a great first impression," Claude said with a chuckle. "I guess I should introduce myself properly. I'm Claude von Riegan. I'm from the ruling house of the Leicester Alliance, but don't worry too much about that."
"You're pretty casual about the whole thing," N said.
Claude laughed and clasped his hands behind his head. "Yeah. I try to make a big deal out of it. Anyways, I'm guessing you don't know which house to pick, do you. I bet you'd like ours. We're not as difficult as the other two."
He went on to give a brief overview of the members of his house and their partners. First was Lorenz, someone who flaunted his noble heritage on a regular basis. His partner is a Piplup who was equally as proud as him. Raphael was the son of merchants and someone with a huge appetite. His partner is a Makuhita. Ignatz was of commoner origin hoping to make it as a knight. His partner is a Hoothoot. Lysithea was one of the younger students, if not the youngest. Her partner is a Ralts. Marianne was a sullen girl, always looking at the downside of things. Her partner is a Espurr. Hilda was a somewhat lazy girl, but she still managed to get her work done. Her partner is a Stufful. Finally there was Leonie. At the mention of her name, N groaned, while Byleth seemed to share his sentiment.
"You've met her?" Claude asked, eyebrow raised.
"Yeah, she was part of our band for a little while. She got a bit too obsessed with Jeralt. The girl means well, but her…" N trailed off, not wanting to finish the sentence.
"She's way too obsessed with my father. She'd talk about him on a regular basis," Byelth finished.
"Basically that. She has a strong bond with her Blitzle though," N added.
"Is that so. She does mention Jeralt from time to time now that I think about it," Claude mused.
"It's about to get worse now that he's here," N muttered to himself. Byleth nodded in agreement.
"Anyways, that's everyone in the Golden Stantlers. I hope I've convinced you to join us," Claude said.
"Why Stantler and not Sawsbuck? If you don't mind me asking." N asked.
Claude shrugged. "Not sure. I've never asked. It's a bit of a coincidence that I have a Deerling though."
"I see. Well, it was nice to see you again," N said.
"Later."
N and Byleth walked away and continued to walk the school grounds. The other students seemed to keep glancing at them out of the corner of their eyes. No doubt they were wondering who these strangers that were walking around, casually talking to the leaders of the houses. N and Byleth largely ignored them and minded their own business.
By a tree, they found Dimitri, playing with his Shinx. They called out to him and gave a respectful wave.
"Please accept my apologies for the other day. You came to our aid, yet I didn't even have the courtesy to properly introduce myself," Dimitri said adding a bow.
"You don't need to apologize so much. You asked for help and we obliged," N replied.
"Right, of course. I'm Dimitri Alexandre Blaiddyd, crown prince of the Holy Kingdom of Faerghus. Well, at the academy I'm just a student. I've heard that you two are to become professors here. Delightful news. I still have much to learn, but I'm confident I could benefit from both of your guidance."
"I wish I knew what I was teaching," N muttered to himself.
Dimitri seemed to catch his words, but did not directly comment. "In any case, welcome to the monastery. I hear you're learning about the different houses. Did any of the Blue Lions catch your attention?"
Just like the other two, Dimitri briefly explained his classmates. Dedue was fiercely loyal to Dimitri, but closed off to almost everyone else. His partner is a Larvitar. Felix was as close to an expert swordsman as one could get. He and Dimitri had known each other for many years. His partner is a Honedge. Ashe was a hard working youth trying his best to become a knight. His partner is a Treeko. Sylvain was someone who cared a lot about his friends, but was a flirt that would him get into trouble. He has been friends with Dimitri for just as long as Felix. His partner is a Growlithe. Mercedes was like the mom of the group, always worrying about others wellbeing. Her partner is a Happiny. Annette was an outgoing girl, always trying to help others. She and Mercedes had met a school for magic. Her partner was a Jigglypuff. Finally there was Ingrid, another one of Dimitri's old friends. She was striving to be a knight in the wake of losing someone dear to her. Her partner is a Ponyta.
"You guys have a tight-knit group," N said after the explanation.
Dimitri smiled and nodded. "Yes. Most of have known each other for many years."
"I like that bond you all share," Byleth said. The Eevee on her shoulder seemed to agree with a happy purr.
"If you'd like to meet them, they should all be in the classroom," Dimitri said.
The two turned to see that the classroom was right behind them the whole time. Inside were all the students Dimitri had mentioned. They were trying not to make it obvious, but they kept glancing in their direction.
"Wouldn't hurt to say hello," N said with Byleth nodding in agreement.
"Wonderful. I'm sure you'll find them to be great people," Dimitri said excitedly.
"One question. Why is it Blue Pyroar and not Luxray?" N asked.
"I think it's because the original founder of the house had a Pyroar as a partner. At least that's what I think," Dimitri explained.
"I see. It was good to see you again. We'll go and say hello to your friends. They've been staring at us for a few minutes now," N replied.
"If you need anything, just ask."
They turned around and made their way to Blue Pyroar classroom. The students in it pretended to busy themselves. N and Byleth took the time to introduce themselves to each of them. Several were just as Dimitri had described. Annette was very personable and happy to meet someone new. She gushed a bit over N's Zorua and Byleth's Eevee, calling them cute many times. Mercedes also was the caring type and simply laughed as Annette would fawn over the creatures. Sylvain was courteous, but kept his eyes firmly on Byleth and tried his best to flirt with her. However, a glare from N would stop him for a few moments. Felix was blunter than either had expected. He was very straight to the point and flat out said he wanted to spar with Byleth and test his battle skills with Honedge with N. Ingrid apologized for Sylvain and Felix's behavior and thanked them for helping Dimitri against the bandits. Dedue was similar, just a short thank you. Ashe was also one of the more personable people. Introducing himself and talking about how brave they were in facing down the bandits.
N and Byleth then moved on to the Black Staraptor classroom, as it was the room next to the Blue Pyroar's. Caspar was quick to introduce himself and immediately challenged both of them to spar. Linhardt tried his best to calm him down, but to no avail. He quickly introduced himself as well, but did not say much else. Petra was like how Edelgard had described, still grasping the intricacies of a new language. Bernadetta was hiding behind a pillar. It took N to get close in order for her to introduce herself. Ferdinand introduced himself boisterously, saying his name like it was something the two had to know. Though, to Byleth and N, it looked like he meant well. Dorothea was one of the more personable people of the class. She introduced herself and her Buneary. It was obvious to N that the bond between them was strong. Finally, there was Hubert, who was staring daggers at them since they entered. He thanked them for saving Edelgard, but did not say much else. Behind him, his Ghastly seemed to laugh at them with a grin plastered on its face.
Finally, they made it to the Golden Santler classroom, and immediately they could feel the different atmosphere that they created. Each of them were easy to talk to and were happy to introduce themselves. Raphael seemed to be more focused on his next meal. With his Makuhita also wanting food. Ignatz introduced himself shyly, but was excited to meet someone new. He also introduced his Hoothoot that was perched on a beam on the ceiling. Lorzen was exactly how Claude had described him, proud of being a noble. His Piplup seemed to share that trait and copied a lot of his gestures. Marianne was the most sullen of all of them. She would apologize for everything even for just being part of the conversation. N and Byleth tried to say she did not need to apologize so much, but it did not seem to work. Hilda was completely different from her. She was more outgoing, but did seem like the type of person who did not give too much effort. Lysithea only said to not judge her based on her height, which meant to not call her short. N made a mental note of that. Finally they met up with Leonie. N groaned when she recognized them. For once he envied Byleth for being able to not show her emotions.
"Man, how long has it been?" Leonie asked.
"Not long enough," N muttered.
She seemed to not catch his comment and continued to talk. "Wait, if you guys are here, then where's Jeralt? He has to be around, right?"
"Yeah, he's around," Byleth replied.
"I need to find him then. I need him to see how much stronger I've gotten," Leonie said before sprinting out of the room, her Blitzle at her heels.
"I feel bad for Jeralt right not," N said.
"If anyone can handle her, it's him," Byleth replied.
N shrugged. "I guess you're right. Anyways, we've met up with the nobles and introduced ourselves to the other students, now what?"
"Probably head back to Rhea. Likely she wants me to pick a house to teach," Byleth answered.
N nodded in response and the two walked back to Rhea's audience chamber. As they walked back, they walked in relative silence. However, the one to break the silence first was Byleth.
"If you were teaching one of them, who'd you pick?"
N turned to her, surprised she was starting a conversation. He then looked to the ceiling of the main hall and mused the question.
"Well, they all left a pretty good impression on me, so it wouldn't be easy."
"Don't dance around it," Byleth said.
"I know, I know." N continued to think. Each house had their own quirks, both good and bad. He liked the close bond Dimitir's class had. He liked the relatively positive atmosphere that Claude's class had. He liked how united Edelgard's class was even when all of them came from different parts of their country.
"I guess if I had to pick, I'd go with Black Staraptor's. Despite one of them looking like he could kill me in strange ways, they seem like a good group of people. Really all three do, but that's where I think I'd feel the most at home; if that makes sense."
He turned to Byleth who seemed to have a satisfied smile on her face. N rose an eyebrow, wondering what was making her smile. He then pieced it together.
"You've already chosen, haven't you?"
"Maybe," Byleth said with a small laugh.
N replied with his own laugh.
As their conversation finished, the made it back to Rhea's audience chamber, where Manuela and Hanneman were also waiting. They entered and Rhea began to address them both, but her gaze was fixed on Byleth.
"How are you enjoying your time at the academy thus far? I hope you have found our halls brimming with the vitality of well-intentioned souls," Rhea said.
Why not just call them students? N thought as he mentally shrugged.
Seteth let out a short grunt and turned his attention towards Byleth. "I suppose it is time for you to take charge of one of our three houses of students." He then made it clear that he distrusted Byleth, and to the same extent N, with teaching students, but he had to do as Rhea said.
Manuela added that she hoped Byleth had gotten to know each of the students in the respective houses. While Hanneman said that Byelth would be allowed first pick and they would get the other two houses. N had to wonder of that was the best way to do things, but decided against saying anything. He then turned to Byelth, who seemed to be thinking deeply about which house to teach. Though, he was sure that she had already decided. Meanwhile, he had to make sure what he was going to be teaching, because nobody had yet told him what he was going to do.
"I think I'll pick…" Byleth began to say, causing N to turn his attention towards her. "I'll pick the Blue Pyroars."
N was surprised, but at the same time he was not. She seemed the most invested in that house since they had spoken with Dimitri.
"So you've chosen the Blue Pyroars, led by Dimitri. Correct?" Rhea asked, just to make sure.
Byleth nodded in response. "Yes. That's my choice."
"Your heart had made its choice, then. All I ask is that you guide these open minds with virtue, care, and sincerity," Rhea said with a smile.
"They are all promising youths who bear the weight of Fodlan's future. I hope you appreciate what an honor it is to lead them," Seteth added.
This guy's kind of a dick, N thought.
"Brother?" a female voice said. Everyone looked to the side to see a young girl with green hair walk into the room. She then let out a surprised gasp. "Oh! I am so sincerely sorry! I did not mean to interrupt."
"I'm in the middle of something, Flayn. Is it urgent?" Seteth said.
So they're siblings? They don't look like it, N thought.
"No, no, it's nothing. More importantly…" She turned to N and Byleth. "Who are they?"
"They are our newest professors at the academy," Seteth answered.
"A new addition to the Officers Academy! I am very pleased to meet both of you, Professors! I'm Seteth's little sister, Flayn. I'm so happy to make your acquaintance," Flayn said excitedly.
"Yeah, about that," N said moving to the front. "I still have no idea what you want me to teach."
Seteth was about to say something until Rhea raised her hand to stop him. She turned to N, with a calm smile on her face.
"You'll be teaching something that is relatively new course here. It's been some time since we've had someone capable enough to teach it," Rhea answered.
N's interest was piqued. If it was something that not many could teach, he could only guess what it was. He did have a good guess about what it was, but made to sure to keep an open mind.
"We want you to teach the students about the creatures they have as partners and the creatures in general. No doubt you've gotten to know the students and their partners. Not only that, but teach the ways of combat with them at their sides."
I thought as much, N thought. "I don't like it when the creatures suffer, and they tend to in battle. However, I'll teach the students more about them. That means I'll be teaching all three."
Rhea smile seemed to widen a bit. "That is all I ask. Please, both the students and their partners are in your care."
N bowed and returned to standing behind Byleth. "I'm sorry if I interrupted something."
"Let us return to the main topic," Seteth said, turning to Byleth. "There is something you should be aware of. In a few days' time there will be a mock battle between the three houses, intended to gauge the progress of the students. We will use the battle as an opportunity to ascertain your own abilities as well. Please do not disappoint the archbishop. That is all."
This guys really is a dick, N thought.
After that, the meeting was adjourned. Before N could join Byelth, he was pulled aside by Seteth, saying that Rhea wanted to talk with him. N spared a glance towards Byleth, who turned around to wait for him. N gave her a nod, which she understood and she walked out of the audience chamber.
N followed Seteth into another room, which seemed to be some sort of office. Behind the desk was another stain glass window. However, this time it showed a white and black creature with a green haired woman standing with the white creature and an older man standing with the black creature. For some reason, the image seemed familiar to him. The creatures seemed to be in a shape similar to something he had seen before. As he studied it more, he could feel a memory from his past begin to poke through his brain. Before it could, he felt a strong headache. He brought his hand to his forehead, trying to soothe the pain. It took a moment, but it subsided. He looked to the side to see that Seteth was watching him. He had a momentary concerned look, but it quickly faded.
"Does the image look familiar to you?"
N turned to see Rhea enter the room. He nodded and turned back to it.
"The creatures in the back, what are they?" N asked.
"The legendary dragons, Reshiram and Zekrom," Rhea answered.
The names seemed familiar to N. He had likely heard about them when he was very young, when he was still with them.
"They're sealed away. Unlikely to return," Rhea continued.
"I see," N said.
"If you wish to learn more, the library is free for you to use."
"Right. Thank you."
Rhea chuckled lightly and moved in front of N.
"I called you in here to ask you something. Do you want to teach the students more about the creatures?" Rhea asked.
"Of course. They should be aware of the creatures of this world, and their partners as well," N replied.
"I thought you might say that. I'm sure the three houses will learn much from your teachings."
N shrugged at that comment. "I hope so. I've never considered myself a teacher."
Rhea chuckled again. "I'm sure you'll do fine. The house leaders already trust you."
That was true. When he spoke to all three earlier, they seemed to be more trusting of both him and Byleth. Maybe it was a product of saving them, or something else entirely. The three had their own reasons for wanting to know more about N, the main one was his knowledge on the creatures.
"May I ask if you have a partner?" N asked.
"Me? No, I do not. I consider all of the creatures living at the monastery my partners," Rhea replied.
He had seen many wild Purrloins, Yampers, and several other creatures roaming the grounds. He wondered if she could speak to the creatures as well.
"I see. Sorry if it was something I shouldn't have asked," N said.
"No need. I understand that many have a creature to call a partner."
N nodded in response. "Is there anything else you need from me?"
"Yes, one last thing. Seteth will show you to your sleeping quarters, as well as where you shall be teaching," Rhea said.
N turned to Seteth. He looked like the last thing he wanted to do was what Rhea had just told him. He mumbled something under his breath and turned to N to follow him. N gave a polite bow to the archbishop and followed Seteth out of the room.
Rhea watched as the door to the room closed and as soon as it did her smile fell. She turned to the stained glass window and her gaze narrowed.
"You're project has made its way to me, Ghetsis. When will you come to get him I wonder," Rhea said to herself.
—
N followed Seteth through the grounds of the monastery. Every so often, he would glance back with a disapproving look. When they passed by the classrooms, he caught a glimpse of Byleth with her students. He wished he could join, but Seteth's glances were increasing with frequency as they passed by the classrooms.
They climbed up steps and made it to a tall structure with an equally tall door. Seteth stopped in front of the door and grabbed at set of keys. He inserted one of them into the door and with a loud thunk, the door unlocked.
"This is the battle arena. It locked off most of the time, but as of today it will be your classroom," Seteth said, turning to N.
N nodded and took a step forwards to open the door. He pushed the door and inside was the area. It was rectangle in shape, made out of stone. Two smaller rectangles were at the far sides of the main one, likely where someone would stand. N stood in the center of the area and looked around. There were steps that circled the area, likely for people to sit and watch battles. N felt amazed at the sight. He had never seen something like it before.
"Wow. This place is pretty cool."
"I'm glad you appreciate it," Seteth said. "However, I still am distrustful of you and your capabilities to teach."
N shrugged. "That's fair. We only just met."
"We'll learn if your friend is up to par, but we have no way to measure your ability to teach," Seteth said as he walked to the edge of the rectangle.
"What're you getting at?" N asked with a raised eyebrow.
He stopped at one of the smaller rectangles and turned to N. "I wish to test your abilities."
N looked to Zorua. "Like in a battle?"
Seteth nodded. "Precisely."
"But you don't have a partner."
"On the contrary, I do." Seteth snapped his fingers and from behind a pillar a small, blue creature appeared. It had its mouth open and was lined with sharp teeth. On its head was a fin. Ne recognized the creature almost instantly.
"A Gible?"
"Indeed. Shall we begin?"
N chuckled and walked to the other side of the arena. He stopped on the small rectangle and turned towards Seteth.
"You ready, Zorua?"
The black fox jumped off N's shoulder and let out a happy growl, it was ready for a fight.
"It seems you're ready. I won't be holding back," Seteth said.
"I wouldn't want you to. Though, I won't lose."
"Let's see if that confidence remains when I beat you. Gible, use Dig!"
Gible follow its command and burrowed into the ground, breaking the stone floor with ease.
"Zorua, be careful!" N said.
The fox began to scan the ground, as did N. He knew Gible would appear form beneath Zorua, but there was the possibility it would not. N did not want to take that chance.
"Zorua, run around to confuse it!"
Zorua began to move around the area. Not spending too long in one spot. Both kept an eye on the ground, making sure to not get caught off guard.
"Rise, Gible!"
On one of Zorua's steps, Gible rose from the ground and slashed at Zorua. N gritted his teeth in frustration, what he wanted to avoid came to pass. Now it was his turn to go on the offensive.
"Zorua, Fury Swipes!"
Zorua turned to Gible and charged at it. It raised its paws with its claws exposed and slashed three times at Gible. However, Zorua seemed to have taken damage as well.
"Why did Zorua take damage too? Is your Gible different?"
"For someone that is to become our battling professor, I'd expect you to know this. My Gible's skin in rougher than most. Any creature that attacks it will take damage too," Seteth replied.
I see. So creatures can have more than one ability, N thought.
"Take this! Gible, Dragon Rage!"
"Zorua, dodge it!"
From Gible's mouth, a blue-yellow flame burst forth. Zorua could not move in time and was hit by the attack. Though it seemed to take less damage compared to the first attack. N deduced that it was likely a weaker move. Seteth likely intended to use that move to defeat Zorua.
I can't hit with a direct attack, N reminded himself. "Zorua, Snarl!"
Zorua let out a screech and a wave of black-purple energy sprung from its mouth. Seteth cover his ears, while Gible took the full force of the attack. The energy pushing the draconic creature back. When the attack finished, Gible was dazed as it tried to regain its bearings. Seteth, meanwhile, was adjusting to not hearing the screech.
"I'm going to finish this! Gible, Dragon Rush!" Seteth called out.
"Oh crap!"
A blue energy formed around Gible, taking the shape of a dragon's face. It then lunged directly at Zorua. Before N could call out for Zorua to dodge, it took the full force of the attack. The force caused Zorua to fly past N and crash into the pillar behind him.
"Zorua!" N turned and rushed to see if Zorua was okay. He found the fox slowly trying to get up.
Zorua can't battle anymore. It's too weak, N thought.
He let out a sigh and went to pick up Zorua. However, the fox growled at N, its eyes lighting up with determination. He could hear Zorua's voice, it wanted to continue to battle. It had never faced such a strong opponent before and wanted to fight to the end. N was worried, though. Zorua could get even more hurt if it continued on. Despite his mind telling him to stop the fight, he went with his gut and let Zorua continue.
"Let's win, Zorua."
The fox nodded and trotted back onto the arena.
"I thought that last attack would surely defeat you. Color me surprised to see your partner stand," Seteth said.
"I wanted to call it after that attack, but Zorua told me it wanted to continue. It's having too much fun fighting your Gible. And, quite frankly, so am I," N said as a determined expression formed on his face.
"Very well. Let's continue."
N chuckled and prepared to launch his next attack. If his next attack did not go as planned, he and Zorua would lose.
"Zorua, let's hit him with our strongest attack: Dark Pulse!"
Zorua opened its mouth and dark energy began to collect in it. The energy was then fired as a beam of dark circles. The beam collided with Gible, pushing the creature back. The beam pushed Gible back towards Seteth, who let out a frustrated grunt. Gible, however, remained standing after the attack.
"Gible is still standing after that attack, and now you will lose. Gible, Dragon Rush!"
However, Gible would not move. Seteth looked towards his partner who stood stock still.
"Gible, attack!"
"Sorry, but Gible won't be attacking. Dark Pulse has a secondary affect of causing a creature to flinch," N explained. "I'll be the one to finish this! Zorua, Dark Pulse!"
Once again, Zorua collected dark energy and fired it. The attack collided with Gible knocking the creature into the pillar. Seteth turned to see if his partner managed to shake off the attack, but found Gible groaning and unable to move. Seteth let out a defeat sigh and turned to N.
"My Gible cannot continue. You are victorious in this battle."
N let out a relieved sigh and rushed to Zorua's side, who was about to collapse form exhaustion. He picked up the fox and pet it playfully.
"You did great, Zorua!"
All of a sudden, clapping was heard in the area. N look up to see the three houses gathered in the audience seating. N chuckled, they must have heard the sounds of the battle came to watch.
"You did great professor!" Claude called out.
"Nice way of showing Seteth who's stronger!" a voice, that sounded like Sylvain, called out.
"Both of you were awesome!" a voice, that sounded like Caspar, yelled.
N smiled and waved to everyone. His eyes then fell to Byleth who was happily cheering him on. He chuckled and looked back to Zorua, who also chuckled.
"It seems you have won the hearts of the students during our battle. I cannot deny now that you'll be a good teacher. I still don't fully trust you, however," Seteth said.
"I guess I can't help that," N said with a nervous smile forming on his face. He then turned to Gible, who seemed to be asleep in Seteth's arms. "How's Gible?"
"Nothing rest and some treatment can't fix," Seteth responded. "What about Zorua? I'm surprised it stayed standing after a Dragon Rush."
"Zorua'll be fine. I have ways of treating it. I could treat your Gible as well," N offered.
"I appreciate the offer, but I must be going."
"Right. See you around," N said.
Seteth bowed lightly and walked out of the arena. When he was gone, all the students in the stands crowed around him. All of them were asking all sorts of questions, while also asking for a battle.
"Everyone, please calm down a bit. Don't worry, I'll be teaching all of you how to handle yourself in battle. Plus, I can't battle right not. Zorua needs some rest. I look forward to teaching all of you," N said.
"I'm sure they'll all be looking forward to it," Byleth replied.
N chuckled a bit. "See all of you tomorrow!"
After that, the students began to file out of the arena, leaving only N and Zorua. He took another moment to look around the area which would become his classroom. This was not what he anticipated his life to become, but it was better than he anticipated. He looked down to Zorua, who was beginning to fall asleep.
"What do you think'll happen next, Zorua?"
Zorua simply yawned and tried to make itself comfortable in N's arms.
—-
When night fell, N found that he and Byleth would be sharing a room for the time being. It was mainly due to the unexpectedness of having two new professors. N did not mind it. It felt more comfortable to be with someone familiar. N took off his armor and boots and sat on the bed, watching as a fully healed Zorua tried to pounce on his boots. He could not help but chuckle at the fox's antics. Meanwhile, Byleth seemed to be staring off into nothingness again. N let out a sigh and called out to her. Byleth blinked rapidly as she seemed to come back to reality.
"So, what'd you think of the archbishop?"
Byleth shrugged. "Not sure yet. You?"
"Well, I don't trust her all that much. There's something about her that throws me off," N replied.
"You've never thought of someone as untrustworthy before," Byleth said.
"She just…" N trailed off as he laid down on the bed. "She just reminds me of someone from my past. Someone who uses nice words to get their way."
Byleth did not respond. She knew that N's past was a sour spot for him. Though there were times when he would open up about it.
"Though, if we're going to be here for a while, glad there's at least those kids from before. They are more personable," N added.
"Kids? Aren't they a year younger than you?" Byleth asked.
"Ha, ha, very funny. Based on what Jeralt said, you're probably my age too," N replied.
Byleth shrugged in response and sat down on her bed. Her Eevee already curled up and sleeping. She gently pet the creature, making sure not to wake it.
"That was quite the battle against Seteth," Byleth said, changing the conversation topic.
N sat up on his bed and looked towards Byleth, a smile plastered on his face. "I've never had so much fun in a battle before. Granted it's probably 'cause it doesn't happen to often."
While N was knowledgeable about how to battle with creatures, the most experience he had was facing off against creatures in the wild and spars with Byleth. It was the first time his opponent was someone else.
"He kind of just challenged me. He wanted to test my skills."
"The students now trust you, some admire you I think," Byleth said.
"That's good. It'll help when I teach them," N replied. "Anyway's we should probably get some shuteye. Tomorrow is going to be interesting, I think."
Byleth nodded and blew out the candle causing the room to go dark.
"Hey, Byleth," N said.
"Hm?"
"I think you blew out a Litwick's flame," N said.
All of a sudden a wailing sound filled the room. Both N and Byleth groaned. It was going to take a while before the Litwick would stop wailing.
AN: And with that, this chapter ends. A long one this time. Again a lot of this plays out how it happened on the game that's why the dialogue feels familiar. I tried to change this up a bit here and there. However, going forwards things will being to change. As many of you likely guessed, N will be teaching a Pokemon battle class. So he'll be with all of the characters and will be able to build relationships with all of them. In this chapter you also got a tease of what's to come. So I hope you look forward to that. Sorry if the character intros felt a bit clunky here, they'll be better done next chapter, I promise. Also, the battle that happens in this chapter is how battle will play out in N's class. On the battlefield, it'll be different. I also have many changes planned for this story, so i hope you look forward to them. Anyways, with all that stuff out of the way, I hope you enjoyed this chapter and stay tuned to the next. If you are enjoying, follow, favorite, and/or review. Feel free to follow me on Twitter. I post updates for stories as well as other stuff so you can get ot know me better.