Narrator: Ah, it is the dawn of a new moon. Many here call it the Great Tree Moon. The icy winds of the Amako Mountains have begun to scatter, and the verdant fields once again spring to life across Me-Hador, heralding the start of a new year. As they celebrate the dawning year, the people pray that they may realize their full potential, just as a tiny sprout hopes to one day grow into a great tree. For Me-Hador, said to be protected by a revered goddess, has existed since time immemorial. Three ruling powers now control the land. In the south lies a region long held by a more than one-thousand-year-old dynasty–the Essena Empire. Beyond its borders, to the frigid north, is the home of the Holy Kingdom of Kalos, ruled by the royal family and its knights. To the east, a league of nobles that heeds no king nor emperor rules what is called the Evo Alliance. Once consumed by a tempest of war and turmoil, Me-Hador and these three mighty powers now exist in relative harmony. But this land is kept unaware of a wicked force that dares to strike a match for war!
Kenneth: This will be your first time at the church. I'd be happy to show you around.
Braddock: It really is Me-Hador in a nutshell. The good and the bad.
Camilla: Like it or not, we'll be there soon enough.
Braddock: I'm trying to keep my pants on, okay?
Camilla: There it is. Elysium Church. Heh, just like everything I know about this place.
Irma(as everyone heads forward): I wonder... Did the flow of time bring you here?
Janus: Heh. It's been years since I've last set eyes on this place. To be forced to see her now...
Kandan: Her?
Janus: You saw her in the courtyard earlier, didn't you? The archbishop...Lady Irma.
Kandan: Lady Irma?
Janus: Yeah. As you know, the majority of folks in Me-Hador are devout followers of the teachings of Hadoria. The leader of that ridiculously large organization is the archbishop, Lady Irma.
Logan: I'm sensing there's more to where this is headed than we think.
Sampson: Thank you for your patience, Janus. My name is Sampson. I am an advisor to the archbishop.
Janus: Right. Hello.
Irma: It has been a long time, Janus. I wonder…was it the will of the goddess that we have another chance meeting like this?
Janus: Forgive my silence all these years. Much has happened since we last spoke.
Irma: So I see. The miracle of fatherhood has blessed you. That is your child, is it not?
Janus: Yes...born many years after I left this place. I wish I could introduce you to the mother of my child...but I'm afraid we lost her to illness.
Irma: I see. My condolences. As for you…I heard of your valiant efforts from Aegis. What is your name?
Kandan: My name is Kandan.
Irma: A fine name indeed.
Oona: I'm Oona.
Logan: And they call me Logan.
Irma: From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for saving those students of the Academy.
Janus: Hmph.
Irma: Janus. You already know what it is I wish to say, do you not?
Janus: You want me to rejoin the Knights of Hadoria, don't you. I won't say no, but…
Irma: Your apprehension stings. I had expected that Alois would have already asked this of you. I must step away for now, but I expect they will desire a word with you soon. Please listen carefully to what they have to say. Until tomorrow… Farewell.
Logan: Well, guess I was right for knowing that something was gonna happen to all four of us, right?
Janus: Yes. I can't believe it. Forced back into the Knights of Hadoria. I'm sorry I dragged you into this. Looks like I'll be stuck here for a while…and I'm afraid your services are requested as well.
Oona: Oh well. Come another day, and we'll be like teachers.
Logan: Yeah, but that's why this first impression thing is so important... I should know.
Julia: So. You must be the new professor. My, how stern and handsome you are!
Kandan: Me, and a few others.
Samuel: Competence and age are not necessarily correlated, as you well know. I am Samuel, a Crest scholar and professor at the Academy. I wonder if you bear a Crest of your own. When next you have a moment to spare, I insist that you pay me a visit so we can delve into the subject further.
Julia: And I'm Julia. I'm a professor, a physician, a songstress, and available. It's nice to meet you.
Logan: Wait, hold on. You're a songstress?
Julia: Of course. Before I came here, I belonged to a renowned opera company. Perhaps you've heard of me? The Mittelfrank Opera Company's beautiful, peerless–
Samuel: Spare our colleagues the needless chatter, Julia. Now then, it seems you'll be taking charge of one of the academy's three houses. I expect you haven't yet been briefed on the nature of each, have you?
Children: Uh...
Julia: Do you really not know? Fine, I'll do you a favor and explain. The Academy is comprised of three houses of students, each of which is closely affiliated with its region of origin. First up, the Talon Clan. This clan is made up of the Essena Empire's finest, and is led by Camilla, the Imperial princess, who is set to be her father's joyous heir.
Samuel: Then you've got the Claw Clan of Kalos. Their house leader this year is Prince Kenneth. He is to be the next king at his father's command, though daddy seems to be rushing things a little...
Julia: Lastly, we have the Horn Clan, which has the warriors of the Evo Alliance. Their house leader is Braddock, grandson to Duke Beauregard, the leader of the Alliance.
Samuel: To think that the heiress to the throne, newest link in the royal chain and a peerage in the Alliance are all here. It certainly is a promising year for the academy.
Julia: I'll say. I just hope none of those little treasures cause any trouble.
Samuel: Hm, quite. For now, I suggest taking a stroll around the academy to get your bearings. And when you've a moment, please stop by my research laboratory.
Julia: The old man has a point. Oh, and keep in mind that I've only notified the house leaders that you're our new professor. It's more fun that way. I suggest you try spending time with the students. Some odd ducks in that bunch, but they're good kids. I'm sure Lady Irma will have more information for you tomorrow, but that should get you going. Good luck. You'll need it.
Oona: What do I say?(chuckles)I... don't know.
(A few minutes later)
Logan: What do you mean, you don't know? A few hours ago, we were about to continue the finest adventure of our lives. Now, we get the offer of a lifetime, and you don't know?
Oona: It's not that simple, Logan. I wanna protect the kids!
Logan: So, do, I.
Sampson: Have you no intention of changing your mind, Irma? Appointing a trio of strangers–a trio of children no less!–as professors at our esteemed academy is–
Irma: I have made my decision, Sampson. I know worrying comes naturally to you, but there is truly no need. Those "strangers" are Janus' flesh and blood, after all.
Sampson: I can't say that's all too comforting. How trustworthy is this Janus character? Is he not the man who went missing after the great fire 21 years ago? I would remind you that my own sister is now here with us as well. I beg of you…please consider whether this is an unnecessary risk.
Oona: I wanna protect the kids from danger, Logan!
Logan: And how do you do that? By turning down a chance to provide support and have them accept what they are?
Oona: They haven't decided what they are. They're still kids.
Logan: Yeah. I know.
Irma: Sampson. They have my trust. Let that be enough for you as well. More importantly, I have received a report from one of our allies. I am increasingly concerned about a matter regarding our suspicious individual and her ruthless band of minions. We cannot ignore those who harbor ill will towards the church, especially if they are frequenting visits to our Academy.
Sampson: Yes, that matter is of great importance as well. I shall continue my investigation. Irma… For now, I will have faith that you are placing your trust with the utmost care. I pray that nothing occurs to shake that confidence.
Shadow Knight: Suspicious, am I? Heh, we'll see about that.
Narrator: So, Kandan and his friends have taken up a great position as professors in the Academy. But the choice still remains, however. Will they be able to tackle one, or all three individually?
Camilla: So, you've accepted a triad of teaching positions here... Pity. I was hoping you would lend your strength to the Empire. They call me Camilla Toussaint, and the name holds true in my family. Well...some think I'm a bit distant. Arrogant, even. But there's little to be done. One day, I must rise to become Essena's next emperor. What else... Well, it seems to me that we may have similar personalities. My partner is Daniel Dufort. He has served me since I was a child. You may think his blood runs a bit cold, but... Heh, actually, that's rather accurate. Still, if you can get past that, you'll see he's quite astute and reasonable. On the psychological basis of Jason Beaumont... For some reason, he thinks of me as a bitter rival and is always trying to challenge me. It's terribly irritating. His house is that of Duke Beaumont, which produces Essena's Prime Ministers. That family is...perhaps too pleased with its own status. Randall Archambeau. He's remarkably intelligent, but he only wishes to apply himself to tasks that particularly interest him and nothing else. He's also fond of...well, napping. If he had any work ethic or sense of duty to speak of, I suppose he would be destined to become an official of the Empire. Richard Castillon. He's the second son of Count Bergliez. He has no inheritance in his future, which is perhaps why he's always so eager to prove himself. He's overly energetic and rushes headfirst into any battle. If he ends up in your care, be sure to keep a close eye on him. Marnie Boisclair. She's Count Varley's only daughter. I suppose you could say she's a bit eccentric, but she seems like a gentle soul. I believe she's shut herself away in her quarters and doesn't care to leave, but...don't worry. I'll make sure she finds her way to class. Elena Barbier. Few commoners have joined the Talon Clan, but Elena is an exception. She's a songstress from a famous opera company in the Empire. I'm not entirely sure what brought her to the Academy. And finally, there's Ronnie Couture. To the west of Me-Hador is an archipelago called Lo-Mikada. Ronnie is the granddaughter of their king. Lo-Mikada is a vassal state of the Empire, which is how she came to be enrolled here. She's incredibly smart and studious.
Kandan: That's an interesting lineup.
Camilla: Wait till you hear about the number of students who are gossiping about the 'Shadow Knight'.
Kandan: And that is another alias you carry?
Camilla(not wanting Kandan to get the wrong idea): Perhaps...
Kenneth: Please accept my apologies for the other day. You came to our aid, yet I hadn't even the courtesy to properly introduce myself. Kenneth Cooper is my name, as you've guessed already. Oh. Um. Please forgive me... It's difficult to open up on the spot, don't you think? I'm afraid my story has not been a pleasant one... I do hope that doesn't color your view of me, but I understand if that can't be helped. My bodyguard/best friend/valued partner is Luke Foster. Luke was born in Kiadan and has been loyally working in my service for the past four years. He's rather taciturn, but once you get to know him, you'll see he's a kind and good-natured young man. In terms of lively in the case of Alvin Henderson... He is the heir to House Fraldarius(on his mother's side). He has a bit of a sharp tongue, but don't let that fool you. Deep down, he's a good guy. He gravitates towards people who are skilled. Perhaps you would enjoy a friendly competition with him sometime. Donovan Johnston. He's the adoptive son of Lord Lonato of Castle Gaspard(by their father's blood), but I hear he was born a commoner. He has an extremely earnest personality, so I'm certain he will approach your lectures with great enthusiasm. Zane Lewis. Zane is the heir to House Gautier(thanks to mommy). He is a capable person who highly values his friends. That said... Well, he's always been a bit of a...ahem, skirt chaser, so to speak. Pardon my bluntness. I speak with him about it often, but it doesn't seem to help. Nora Moore. I hear she was born to Imperial nobility, but a twist of fate brought her to the Kingdom. She may seem carefree on the surface, but she's actually a kind soul who pays careful attention to everyone around her. Cassidy Murphy. Cassidy is Baron Dominic's niece. She is a talented student who scored extremely high marks at the Royal School of Sorcery. She's cheerful and hardworking. Brilliant, really. Though she can be a bit oblivious at times. I hear she caused an explosion in the kitchen last night... Last but certainly not least in the Claw Clan is Katie Pearce. Katie is Count Galatea's daughter. She is also a childhood friend of Alvin, Zane and myself. She is diligent, industrious, and principled. In truth, she is more knightly than most knights you will ever meet.
Oona: That's quite the team you've got there.
Braddock: Well, well. Scored a teaching gig here, did ya? Talk about a great first impression. I guess that means I'd better introduce myself properly. Name's Braddock Beauregard, if you didn't know. As luck would have it, I'm pretty curious about you as well. But what's life without a bit of mystery? Let's just spend the next year or so learning about each other, little by little. My confidant is Eric Accardi. He's the heir of Gloucester territory. If you haven't already picked up on it, he's a bit arrogant and fancies himself a ladies man. That said, deep down he's really devoted and honest... Though I wouldn't mind never hearing him talk about his noble obligations ever again. Reading off of the mental records of Jordan Gatti... He comes from a merchant family, but his parents died in an accident. Seems like he's had a rough life. Despite all that, he's just about the most cheerful guy you'll ever meet. His passions are training, eating, and... Actually, that's about it. Ricky Guerra. He's the second son of a merchant family. Since his brother will inherit the business, he's training to become a knight. If you ask me, doesn't seem like he truly wants to be a knight... He's probably just doing it to please his parents... Kristy Leoni. Kristy is the daughter of Count Ordelia, and is probably the youngest student here. But watch out! She gets angry if you treat her like a child. As for me, I do it on purpose. You have to make your own fun in this place, you know? Samantha Messina. Samantha is Margrave Edmund's daughter...and that's pretty much all I know about her. She doesn't interact much with other students, so I wouldn't be surprised if a lot of folks here have never even heard her speak. Ava Parisi. Ava enrolled because she wants to be a mercenary. I think she said that her father is a hunter. She's pretty blunt and as stingy as they come. A habitual saver, too. I think she's hoping to repay her village for helping to send her here.
Logan: Cool.(To himself)Well, that's all I need to know...
Oona: ...And now that's it's settled...
Kandan: I suppose I should return to Irma...
Irma: 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.
Sampson: Hm. I suppose it is time for you to take charge of one of our three houses of students. I must note that I am personally against entrusting someone as lacking in trackable history as yourself with such a task, but it is as the archbishop desires.
Julia: The Talon Clan, the Claw Clan, and the Horn Clan… All so different. I hope you've made it a point to get to know each of them.
Samuel: Since you are new here, we have decided to allow you first pick, Kandan. We'll aid your friends in every way possible.
Kandan: I'll lead the Talon Clan.
Oona: I'll go with the Claw Clan.
Logan: That just leaves Braddock and the Horn Clan with me.
Irma: Your heart has made its choice, then. All I ask is that you guide these open minds with virtue, care, and sincerity.
Sampson: They are all promising youths who bear the weight of Me-Hador's future upon their shoulders. I hope you appreciate what an honor it is to lead them.
Rhonda: Brother? Oh! I am so sincerely sorry! I did not mean to interrupt.
Sampson: I am in the middle of something, Rhonda. Is it urgent?
Rhonda: No, no, it's nothing. More importantly... Who is this?
Sampson: These three are our newest professors at the academy.
Logan: Hi.
Rhonda: Oh my! A new triple addition to the Academy! I am so very pleased to meet you, Professors. I am Sampson's little sister, Rhonda. I am so happy to make your acquaintance.
Oona: The pleasure's all mine.
Logan: Same here.
Sampson: Let us focus on the topic at hand. 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 current progress of the students. We will be using this battle as an opportunity to ascertain your own abilities as well. Please do not disappoint the archbishop. That is all.
Logan: We don't intend on doing anything disgraceful, Milady.
Randall: Wait. So our new professor is...you?! I didn't see that one coming.
Elena: Easy, Randall. Aren't you being a bit rude?
Richard: You know it's a waste of time to expect politeness from him. It will be a pleasure learning from you, Professor. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to take a nap.
Marnie: Ah! Don't look at me like that! Oh, and...please don't talk to me too much either.
Elena: I'm sorry for the chaos you've walked into...
Jason: I hear we are rather close in age, Professor. I hope you do not mind if we treat you like one of us. In our class, we try to treat each other as equals, despite any differences in age or status. Personally, I would love to include you in that inner circle.
Kandan: I don't mind at all.
Ronnie: You have a gut, Professor. I will take great joy from your teachings.
Elena: Ronnie, I believe you mean to say that our professor has guts. That's a bit different from having a gut. You can't go around saying someone so slim and attractive has a gut!
Camilla: Professor, I want you to know that it's perfectly acceptable for you to treat me as you do the others. I may be the Imperial Princess, but here at the academy, I'm just another student. That said, know that I have high expectations of you. And high hopes. But I'm certain you can lead the Talon Clan to greatness.
Randall: Sure, sure. Now, let's break the ice with a training session! I want to see our new teacher in action.
Ronnie: Why will the ice be broken? Is this a custom I have missed in my studies?
Randall: Not real ice, just the ice of...um- Well, it just means let's get to know each other.
Marnie: I don't wanna train! Let's stay in the classroom and...learn from a book.
Elena: Let's all calm down and have a nice cup of tea, how about? Doesn't that sound lovely, Professor?
(Richard snores offscreen, displayed as Zzz...)
Jason: I know we all agreed to treat each other as equals, but there is a limit to what I can tolerate. The esteemed Talon Clan requires order.
(Various members of the Talon Clan bicker and gesture, while Marnie sweats)
Daniel(chuckles): Looks like your first job will be to quiet down this racket. I don't envy you.
Camilla: Ugh, they're not normally this...rowdy. I do hope you can manage, Professor.
Kandan: I think I can...
Cassidy: Wait, does this mean our new professor is- No! I really can't believe it! But I was speaking to you so casually, as though we were companions! Oh, I am so sorry, Professor; you just look the same age as the rest of us, and- Oh, and I'm sorry I just said that too! I really must watch my tongue…
Oona: I don't mind if you treat me as a friend.
Cassidy: You say that, but...I just don't know about all of this.
Kenneth: I'll admit, it doesn't sit well with me either. After all, we wish to show you due respect.
Zane: Sure, but if the professor says it OK, shouldn't that be enough? That is, if Your Highness can consent to such a thing. After all, we're already speaking this way to our future king, so we may as well relax our speech with our professor too, right?
Kenneth: Well, we're not in the Kingdom, so it only goes to follow that we should all speak companionably. (sighs) I concede. If the professor says it's fine, we ought to accept that kindness gratefully.
Katie: As for me, I'm not sure I can manage.
Nora: You don't have to force yourself if it's too difficult. You're fine with that too, right, Professor?
Oona: Yeah.
Zane: Such benevolence is a sight to behold! I don't suppose you would care to join me for tea? We could discuss education...and marriage.
Alvin: Control yourself, Zane. I have more important matters to discuss with our new professor. Having heard of your skills, I'm eager to meet you in battle. Come to the training ground later. There, you will show me what you're capable of.
Kenneth: You aren't wasting any time, are you, Alvin? As it were, count me in for any such battle.
Donovan: Pardon me, but I would also love to observe you in battle, for future reference. If that's OK with you.
Kenneth: Donovan, I don't have you speak of merely watching. You should join us as well.
Nora(giggles): If you get injured, simply say the word, and I'll patch you up straight away!
Luke: Your Highness, do take care not to go overboard.
Kenneth: You worry too much, Luke. I'll be fine, I promise.
Zane: My companions, is there not something inherently wrong with crossing blades, as a way to bond with each other?
Katie: Huh, I never thought of it that way. Well, if that's how you feel, I suppose you'll just stay behind while the rest of us are at the training ground?
Zane: Katie, my dearest friend! You really are too hard on me.
Kenneth: Well then, Professor, what do you think? As you can see, the Claw Clan is a lively bunch, but you'll fine none who work harder. I'm certain we'll cause our fair share of trouble, but I'm very much looking forward to the year ahead.
Oona: I'll try to remember that.
Samantha: Wait, what?! Are you really our new homeroom professor?
Ricky: Is that true? You aren't quite what I pictured. Oh, sorry, I didn't mean that the way it sounded.
Samantha: I was sure you'd be roped into joining the knights!
Braddock: Don't tell me, you chose this class just to get to know me better, right? I'm flattered, really. (chuckles) Whoops. Now that you're our professor, maybe I should choose my words more carefully.
Logan: I don't mind.
Braddock: Oh? Well, then. Since we're pretty close in age and all, I suppose formalities aren't all that necessary.
Eric: One must truly marvel at the exceptionality of this appointment. Becoming a teacher to students almost the same age as yourself. How...unusual. I've heard you are a skilled mercenary, but I cannot shake my discomfort at your new position.
Jordan: Are you really as strong as they say? Let's see your biceps! I bet I've packed on more muscle than you!
Ricky: I doubt that. Apparently our new professor was personally recommended by Aegis, one of the knights.
Braddock: As far as skill goes, I saw it with my own eyes. What's more, Teach here is the child of the most renowned former captain of the Knights of Hadoria.
Ava: I heard. There's no way a child of the captain isn't worthy. It's simply not possible.
Kristy: "The Captain"? Who are you talking about?
Ava: Captain Janus, of course, the most notable captain of the Knights of Hadoria and a peerless mercenary.
Logan: Well... He's not that well known...
Ava: Hmph! It doesn't matter what you think of him. Captain Janus deserves nothing but respect.
Kristy: Just because someone is special... doesn't mean their children are special too, Ava. Assuming that a child is going to be exceptional just because of their lineage is a bad idea. Don't you agree, Samantha?
Samantha: Huh? Oh, um, yes, I suppose so.
Ava: Well, we can find out for ourselves in battle. I can't wait to see what tactics you've learned from the captain.
Jordan: A battle? Shouldn't we have a welcome party or something first? I'll get the meat.
Eric: How savage. I propose a nice conversation over tea instead. I am more than willing to procure some high-quality leaves.
Jordan: Tea? You can't get to know someone over tea. If there's no meat involved, it's not a party.
Eric: Your common sensibilities are grating to my noble ears. Please quiet yourself.
Braddock: Sorry for the bickering, Teach. As you can see, the Horn Clan is a rowdy bunch. We're not especially unified. You'll find nobles and commoners alike here- those who are dedicated to their studies alongside slackers. But hey, that just makes your life more exciting, right? I really hope you're looking forward to the year ahead as much as I am.
Logan: Yeah.
(Both Kandan and Logan get a message from Oona afterwards. "Hey guys, Sam wants us at his office. Something about our crests...")
Samuel: Say, while you're here...I'd like to use this device I designed to determine whether the power of a Crest resides within you. Won't hurt a bit. Promise. You don't know about Crests? Well, allow me to tell you everything–absolutely everything–about them. Is your calendar clear? This will take a while. Crests are a fascinating topic, but before one can dive deeply into said topic, one must first understand what Crests are. They are power incarnate. They are said to have been bestowed upon humans by the goddess countless ages ago. They exist within the flesh, and are passed down through bloodlines. Those who carry crests may excel at magic, display exceptional strength, or any number of boons. Each Crest has its own power, the nature of which is beyond mortal understanding. For now.
Kandan: And you believe I have a Crest?
Samuel: I suspect as much, yes. But we won't know for sure unless I look into the matter. As I said, Crests are passed down through the blood. However, just because someone carries a Crest does not necessarily mean their descendants will inherit it as well. Only a scarce few descendants of a Crest's bloodline end up inheriting that Crest's power. Perhaps one of your ancestors bore a Crest, and you just happened to inherit it. That is how a Crest usually presents itself, after all.
Kandan: Do what you can to find out.
Samuel: Yes, of course. I'll get to the bottom of it straight away. Now then, please go ahead and hold out your arm over this device here. What is this?! A pattern I've never seen before…Is it possible an as-yet undiscovered Crest has been detected? To think there are still Crests out there that even I am unaware of! How thrilling! Ahem… Pardon my unrestrained jubilation. I have much to consider. You may leave now. I have more research to do in regard to this Crest. Yes, so very much more research. But for now, your work here is done. (Hanneman turns away) Hmm… What could this line here be indicating? Perhaps it represents a lack of symmetry… or perhaps… What in the world? Oh, I see… It may be connected to that, but to a greater degree than usual…
Kandan: How strange...
(Outside)
Camilla: Some believe the dignity of the Empire rests on the results of the mock battle. That's an overstatement, of course. Still, we must do our best to prevail. You should take the time to learn each student's abilities. Perhaps some extra lessons and training sessions are in order? You look as if you have no idea what's going on here. I know my way around, so I'm happy to help you find your footing.
Kandan: It is highly important to know where you're going after all.
Logan: Hey bro.
Camilla: I trust you're eager to face the Talon Clan in battle. Enjoy the thrill of anticipation while it lasts.
Logan: Cammy, while your personality and might frighten me, they do not deter me at all. After all, against me you would be nothing but steam, hot air as they say.
Camilla: Are you threatening me?
(Meanwhile with Kenneth and Oona)
Kenneth: I hear there will be a mock battle soon. We must not neglect our training. I trust that you will carefully study the strengths and weaknesses of each of your students, that you may provide effective guidance. Regardless of the results, this battle will be a great learning experience. Even so... What is the point of competition if the aim isn't to win? As this is your first time at the monastery, please allow me to show you the ropes.
Oona: If you're asking to spar, then you've got it. But I gotta warn you, I'm no flower myself...
Kandan: Of course you're not, even I know that.
Kenneth: Kandan? I heard about the upcoming mock battle. I want you to know, Professor, that I do not intend to lose. I hereby declare my intention to prevail at... Goodness, listen to me. The thrill of competition has carried me away. I won't speak so formally of a class assignment in the future.
Kandan: I should know that by now.
(With Braddock and Logan)
Braddock: Did you hear the news, Teach? Looks like we're gonna have a good ol' mock battle between the houses! The Horn Clan isn't exactly what you'd call an elite group just yet, so you may want to whip everyone into shape with some extra training. After all, competition is only fun if you win. To that end, I'd better prepare as well. You know, I was researching what it's like to live here long before I even enrolled. Want me to fill you in, Teach?
Logan: Us warriors gotta stick together.
Oona: Or fall apart trying.
Braddock: Hey, Oona! I hear there's gonna be a mock battle between the houses. I'm not gonna lie, I'm a bit concerned about facing an elite mercenary like you. Maybe take it easy on us, what do you say?
Oona: I'll think about it...
(Inside, as Janus' kids are setting up)
Kandan: Were you seriously trying to embarrass me back there?
Logan: Hey, I embarrassed you, then you did the same to Oona, who then did the same to me!
Oona: Look, let's just focus on the big picture here. It's time for our little pretend clash, and personally, I think we should all play fair.
Boys: If we have to do so.
Camilla: It's finally time for the mock battle. This is my chance to measure your worth as an instructor. Do you think you can rise to the challenge?
Kandan: Leave it to me.
Camilla: So confident. This will be interesting. Each of us has undergone strict training. We're prepared for anything that comes our way. That means there's no need to hold back. Show us what you're capable of.
Kenneth: Ah, it's finally time for the mock battle. I'm eager to put my skills to use. And you, Professor?
Oona: I'm looking forward to it.
Kenneth: Excellent. I have high expectations for your command. That said, I've no doubt it will take everything we've got to pull a victory.
Braddock: Time for a mock battle, eh? Hmm, how should we go about this... Well, you'll be our commander, that much is for sure. Just don't screw it up and everything'll be great. Got it, Teach?
Logan: I'm not concerned.
Braddock: Right. I'll do whatever I can to help too. I mean, I'm kind of obligated to. For example! If I add a little something to their food to upset their stomachs...
Logan: Brad, that's considered cheating! Don't even think about it.
Braddock: Yeah, yeah, wink, wink. I read you. You can't officially condone that sort of thing, right? But say, hypothetically speaking, students from the other houses started racing to the infirmary... As far as anyone knows, it could just be a harmless little stomach bug making the rounds.
Janus(from outside): Oi! If the six of you are through prepping, it's time to see what you've got. Camilla and Kandan will be joined by Daniel, Jason, and Elena. Kenneth and Oona will be joined by Donovan, Luke, and Nora. Braddock and Logan will be joined by Eric, Ricky, and Ava. And Samuel and Julia will join Kenneth and Braddock. Now, if we're all clear on it, it's party time!
Oona: Let's go!
Logan: Time to roll out!
Kandan: All right.
Camilla: The mock battle is finally here. Will you lead us to victory?
Kandan: I shall.
Kenneth: It is about time for the battle to begin. Our victory depends on your leadership. Do not let us down.
Oona: Never.
Braddock: So this is the stage for the mock battle... The command's all yours, Teach!
Logan: Aye, aye!
Janus: I'm sure you already understand, but the house that defeats the other two is declared the winner. Incidentally, I'll be overseeing this mock battle. So listen well if you want to win.
(As the battle begins, Oona, Logan, and Kandan, slash past their opponents before facing each other)
Logan: I have to admit. I'm relieved that I have to fight you and not those runts again.
Oona: Come now Logan, is that all you've got.
Kandan: You fight like my sister!
Logan: I've fought your sister! That's a compliment!
(However, their own sister gets the better of them. Moving along, Oona takes on Braddock)
Braddock: Coming up with brilliant schemes, I can handle. No problem. But I'm not much for fighting. Go easy on me!
Oona: Hmmm.
Braddock: You know that was a joke, right? Jeez, not so much as a smile...
Oona: Yeah, you're just not a jester, aren't you?
(Her next target is Camilla)
Camilla: There can be no victory unless I defeat you. So be it!
Oona: Well, there's some sort of darkness in you that couldn't agree more. And I'm not trusting it, as much as I'm not trusting you!
(Both girls fight like Amazons)
Janus: All right, that's that! The winner of this mock battle is... The Claw Clan!
Kenneth: This victory is the result of everyone's hard work. Thank you, my friends. You did well.(Inside)Oona! I've been looking for you. I was hoping we could all share a meal together. It could serve as both a victory celebration and a post-battle analysis. What do you think?
Oona: A victory celebration?
Kenneth: Of course. After all, we fought hard out there. Such exertion is bound to make anyone hungry for respite, don't you agree?
Zane: Come now, Professor! We can't very well celebrate without the key to our victory present.
Cassidy: He's right! He really is! We were only able to win because we had your help, Professor!
Alvin: Yes. Compared with that boar who knows nothing save frontal attacks, your tactics were nearly decent.
Katie: Alvin! You really ought to stop picking fights with His Highness.
Kenneth: Don't worry, Katie. I encourage all to speak freely. And I must agree that the professor's tactics were truly extraordinary. I have much to learn.
Nora: Oh, sure, but today was exhausting, I'm so hungry I can barely stand...
Donovan: To be honest, so am I. Let's head to the dining hall. Together.
Kenneth: Professor. I'm sorry to intrude, but...you don't look too happy for someone who just won.
Oona: Is that so...
Kenneth: Hm. Well, I understand how difficult it can be to accept joy sometimes. I'm sorry for prying. I know we only just met, so this may be difficult for you, but... I'd love nothing more than to share our happiness with you. Joy can be so fleeting, after all. We're all in this together...so I hope you will consent. I'm sure the rest of the class feels the very same. Well...come along, Professor. Let's enjoy the fruits of our labor!
Oona: Okay.(To herself) Still, I can't help but wonder something. Camilla may not be the woman everyone in her class thinks she is, and I've got a feeling that there's a dark force infiltrating our humble society!
Irma: Your work with the students was remarkable. I can see Janus trained you well. I do hope you were able to use the occasion to bond with the students.
Kandan: We did.
Irma: I am so happy to hear it. Nothing would please me more than if you would use this coming year to grow closer still.
Sampson: Of course, the mock battle was mere practice. The real fight is the Battle of the Eagle and Lion, which will take place during the Wyvern Moon. You are expected to properly train your students so as not to humiliate the academy during the long-held tradition that is the coming battle.
Oona: Never. As we promised before, we won't do anything disgraceful.
Irma: As for today, I have called you here to tell you of your mission for the month ahead. Your class is to dispose of some bandits causing trouble nearby.
Logan: The fiends we fought before?
Sampson: Those affiliated with the Church have a moral obligation to help those in need, regardless of social standing. Students are no exception. Each month, before the newly birthed moon departs, each house of students must complete their assigned mission. You shall work to complete the task at hand alongside your students and report back to the archbishop before the deadline. Understood? I will soon provide you with the necessary details for your first mission. If I told you now, I expect you would only forget, and I despise repeating myself.
Irma: I can sense something special within your heart... I have high hopes for you.
Chrominos: Bandits, they say…
Kandan: Huh?
Chrominos: Do you recall when we first met? You shall not fall so shamelessly again, correct?
Kandan: Uh...
Chrominos: Have you no words for me? Do not tell me that you are shocked to hear from me! You ought to know that I am always with you now. To hear my voice should not come as a shock.
Kandan: Right.
Chrominos: Whatever shall I do with you? I am alive within the confines of your heart. I am unknown to all but you. But through your eyes and ears, I see and hear. Just listen to your heart, as you are doing now, and we may speak like this. That is all that I know.
Kandan: Yeah.
(Meanwhile, it sounds like Oona's fears are becoming real, as a black knight is speaking with Kraven)
Kraven: What is this nonsense?! All I was told was to kill as many noble pipsqueaks as possible! No one said anything about those Knights of Hadoria being on our trail!
Shadow Knight: You have proven yourself worthless. Distracted by something so trivial. I had hoped you would achieve your goal despite the setback. But now the children of the Knights' former captain are in play. How interesting.
Kraven: Hey, this isn't what I agreed to!
Shadow Knight: Hiring a trio of mercenaries as a trio of professors. What was that woman thinking?
Kraven: Are you listening to me?! How do we finish this?!
Shadow Knight: You die.
Kraven: Wh– What?
Shadow Knight: Don't play dumb with me, filthy ingrate. Underestimating the Knights was an amateur mistake. One you will pay for. The road to eternal torment awaits you all. Now I must locate your replacements...
Kraven: Wait! Get back here!(To himself)Why that fiendish jerk! But if I gotta die, I gotta go down swinging!