Chapter 19
Lycanroc in Wooloo's Clothes
When N returned to Abyss, he found everyone was getting ready to set out. He felt like he had missed something important based on how everyone was acting. There was an understanding on everyone's faces as they went up making sure everything was in order.
The first to notice his presence was Byleth, who was quick to make sure that Rhea had not done anything to him. He assured her nothing happened and asked for what had happened since she had left the audience chamber.
Byleth explained the information they had learned about their four new friends and how they were related to the four apostles of old; they each bore one of their crests. N would have been surprised if Regirock had not asked for them to present themselves.
As the two walked around checking in on everyone, all the students still voiced their worry about N's condition. Even with all the assurances he was fine, the students were still inclined to say for him to take it easy. N appreciated their concern for him, but he could only take so much.
As they walked, N noticed how most of the normal denizens of Abyss did not look upon them with disdain. N was happy to see that. It felt like the group of surface dwellers had become a bit more accepted. Byleth in particular was popular. Many walked up to her to give her some advice or supplies. N smiled at the sight. Even though the Abyssian would do most of the talking, Byleth would keep the conversation going.
"Someone's popular," N said, nudging her arm.
Byleth shrugged. "I just try to listen to everyone and help where I can."
N chuckled, which earned a light punch from Byleth.
N separated from Byleth to find supplies he would need. If everything went according to plan, they would go to the abandoned chapel where Aelfric was being held. He found that Abyss sold a lot of things that the surface did not. He kept that in mind for whenever he needed rarer items. Anna was a good source above ground but her prices were not.
He put the last of the berries and herbs into his bag and tossed one berry to Zorua. When he turned the corner towards the Ashen Absol classroom, Yuri walked passed him with sly grin on his face.
"Everything okay, Yuri?"
"Oh, nothing. Just made some plans for tomorrow night," Yuri hummed.
"Is that right?"
Yuri nodded and rose an eyebrow, still with a smile. "Why so much concern?"
N shrugged. "No reason. It's my job as a professor to see to the students' wellbeing."
Yurin crossed his arms. "Are you sure there's not more to it?" He took a step closer to N, forcing the green haired professor to be up against the wall.
N swallowed saliva nervously. "Pretty sure there isn't."
"Maybe we should make the outing a double date?" Yuri said smoothly.
"What're you even…?" N trailed off, but he felt the heat in his face rising.
There was a silence as the two stared at each other.
"Ah, my mistake." He took a step away from N. "I shouldn't go around assuming things."
He snapped his fingers, calling Absol to his side. He gave N another sly grin and walked away from the green haired professor. N was taken aback by what had just happened. So many thoughts consumed him.
On his shoulder, Zorua nudged N's head with his paw. N turned to his partner and tried to take his mind off of what happened. Zorua still looked concerned and poked his paw in N's cheek.
"What?" N asked the fox.
Zorua yipped in response.
"Whatever that was, it was very aggressive," N replied. "I wonder if there was more to what he said."
Zorua yipped again.
"I know. Let's find the others."
N shook his head to try and get what had transpired out of his mind and walked in the direction Yuri had gone. Sure enough, everyone was there waiting already. Once everyone was ready to go, they set out to find Aelfric.
—-
When the group exited Abyss through out of its many tunnels, Constance's change in demeanor was made very apparent. Most tuned out her complaints, but Ashe made attempts to get her to stop being so pessimistic. N admired the boy's attempt but knew it was mostly in vain. How someone could undergo such a dramatic personality shift, he did not know.
However, for N, being outside gave him a greater sense of clarity. He liked living in the monastery, and they were not very far from it, but being outside of its walls made him feel free. He took in a deep breath and released it as he listened to the world around him.
Skwovet hopped from tree to tree and would occasionally stop to look at the newcomers. A flock of Staravia flew above them, likely migrating south with fall fast approaching. In the distance he saw Kangaskhan rummaging for food. He could hear so many other creatures scurrying in the brush. Their cries adding to the ambiance of the forest. It almost felt like he was home again and a smile came to his face. He could even tell Zorua felt more at ease than usual.
"Someone's happy."
N turned to see that Edelgard had started walking beside him. He smiled to her and nodded.
"Being out in nature is always soothing for me. Makes me feel like I'm back home," N replied.
"If you don't mind me asking, where is that exactly?" Edelgard asked.
N chuckled. "It's bit hard to explain. I grew up in a forest. I never knew my birth parents, but the creatures of that forest raised me." On his shoulder Zorua yipped. "That's right. That's where I met you, buddy."
Edelgard was silent for a moment. She was not sure how to respond. But she could tell that thinking about that forest was a memory that did not bring him pain.
"What about you?" N asked. "Do you like the forest? Or just being out in nature?"
"I'm not sure. I've never been out much so I can't say I have an opinion," Edelgard said.
"Well, I do."
N felt an arm being placed over his shoulder. He looked to the side and saw Claude had joined them. The house leader winked at him as he removed his arm from N's shoulders.
"I could've guessed that," N said.
"Is that right?" Claude said, feigning surprise. "Am I really becoming that predictable to you, N?"
N chuckled. "Not one bit. Just guessed that based on your attitude."
"Well, glad to know I can still keep you on your toes," Claude replied.
"Excuse you, Claude. The professor and I were in the middle of a conversation," Edelgard said.
"It's fine, Edelgard. It's not that big of a deal," N said, turning to her. He turned back to Claude. "I'm assuming that's where you met Deerling?"
Claude nodded and turned to his partner. "Yup. Poor girl was injured. A big, mean Ursaring decided to make that part of the forest its territory. Deerling was separated from his herd and the big bear attacked. When I found him, Ursaring was gone but Deerling was hurt. Took him back home, nursed him back to health, and the next thing I knew we had become best friends."
At his side, Deerling yipped happily in response. Claude chuckled and tossed a berry he had picked from a bush to the young deer.
"Quite the story. I'm glad the two of you didn't encounter Ursaring again," N said.
"You're telling me. Though I kinda want to see it again, so it can see just how much stronger Deerling is now," Claude replied.
Deerling gave a determined grunt at Claude's words. N and Claude chuckled at Deerling's readiness for battle. Even Edelgard cracked a small smile.
N turned to the white haired girl and saw Rufflet perched on her shoulder.
"What about you Edelgard? How did you and Rufflet becomes partners?" N asked.
Edelgard turned to Rufflet. The small bird looked to his partner and tilted his head to the side.
"Unfortunately, it is not that grand a tale. It hatched from an egg given to me by my father's most trusted advisor. It hatched and he's been my partner ever since," Edelgard said.
N nodded in response. "There's nothing wrong with that. Though I do find it odd the bond between you and Rufflet is not stronger if that's the case."
"What do you mean by that?" Edelgard asked.
"Normally, a creature that hatches from an egg imprints on the first person it meets. That bond is not easily strained," N explained. "Forgive me for asking, but are the creatures frightening to you?"
Edelgard was silent. She turned to the two next to her and could tell they waited for an answer. She could not recall if she was, but she could not exactly tell them the truth either.
"Not particularly. Rufflet and I have always had difficulty bonding," Edelgard said. It was a half truth, but she knew N would understand.
"I understand." N held out his arm and Rufflet flew over to land on it. He pet the bird beneath his beak and Rufflet began to purr. The two students were amazed at how easily N managed to understand Rufflet. "It seems Rufflet wants to connect with you. You're the one that needs to extent the arm."
Rufflet hopped off N's arm and perched himself on Edelgard's shoulder again. She was impressed by N's ability. While she still found it hard to believe, everyday she found herself understanding the young professor more.
"I cannot get over how you can do that," Claude said. At his side, Deerling yipped happily.
N laughed nervously. "With enough training, I'm sure you can do it as well." N took a few steps to get ahead of them and turned around. He wanted everyone to hear what he had to say. "If you open your hearts to the world around you, and anyone can hear their voices. All it takes is for you to take that step, and your partner will follow."
Edelgard rolled her eyes, but a laugh still escaped her. "Quite theatrical."
"I only spoke the truth," N said.
He looked past the group, all of which seemed to have listened to what he had said, and saw Byleth and Yuri lagging behind. The two appeared to be talking, but it appeared to be brief as Yuri quickened his pace. N rose an eyebrow, but did not let it concern him too much.
"Looks like the ruined chapel is coming into view," Balthus said pointing past a small hill.
N turned, and sure enough a ruined chapel appeared on the horizon.
The group perched themselves behind a brush, out of sight of the mercenaries. There seemed to be a decent amount of them, some were even kept creatures by their side. One, who most assumed was the leader, had a Seviper by his side. The purple scaled snake slithered around the man's legs, keeping a watchful eye.
"These are the guys, huh?" Claude asked.
Yuri nodded. "They have to be. Any has eyes on Aelfric?"
"I see him over there," Ashe pointed out. "He's guarded by two adversaries."
"Weren't the Professor and N mercenaries?" Hilda asked. She turned to the two. "Do you recognize them?"
N and Byleth tried to discern who their opponents were, but they did not recognize them. The armor they wore did not give anything away and their leader was unknown to the two of them.
Byleth shook her head. "Never seen them before."
"Well, that gives us nothing to prepare against them," Yuri said as he began to stand. "We should go meet them, right?"
The group nodded and followed Yuri's lead, but the purple haired teen looked apprehensive.
"How about just the Ashen Absols and the two professors do this? It might not be the best idea to show up to a negotiation with such a large group," Yuri reasoned.
N nodded in agreement. "He's not wrong. We might appear more willing to cooperate with less people."
Yuri smiled. "Great. Let's get moving. And let me do the talking."
The six made their way over the ridge and a mercenary keeping watch alerted the rest of the new arrivals. The group met face to face with the leader to cackled in laughter.
—-
At a high vantage point, Kage appeared looking down at the exchange. He was curious to see what would happen, but was surprised to see an up and comer in the Adrestian military, Metodey, present. As far as he was aware, Ghetsis had only him and Zinzolin on the mission. If that man was not part of the mission then it meant he was going against his master's orders.
He leaned closer to see what would happen, but made to be out of anyone's sight lines. He would have to report what he was seeing to Ghetsis. A punishment would likely be doled out should he survive. Though if he managed to get the splicer then it would make handing it to his master all the easier.
Whatever the outcome of this exchange was, the splicer would soon be in his master's hand
—
"At last you've arrived. You certainly took your sweet time," Metodey cackled. At his feet, his Seviper hissed.
Aelfric had a distressed look on his face as he saw his students arrive. "My flock! Why have you come?"
Balthus frowned. "To save you obviously. Did you really think we'd just abandon you?"
A sullen Constance stepped forward. "If I may be so bold, we are in possesion of the splicer. Might I humbly request that you return Aelfric?"
Yuri held out the splicer causing Aelfric to gasp in surprise and Metodey's smile widened.
"You actually found it? When I told you of it, I never imagined you'd-"
"Let's make sure it's the real thing," Metodey said, cutting off Aelfric. "Hand it over."
Yuri brought the splicer close to his chest and shook his head. "Not until you hand over the hostage. There has to be some degree of trust in this exchange."
Metodey scoffed. "I see you don't understand your own predicament. We have no issue killing you all and taking it." The Seviper growled in agreement.
Hapi rolled her eyes. "Not sure if he's got wool in his ears or if he's just an idiot."
Yuri sighed. "I'm not surprised. These kinds of thugs never show any gesture of sincerity."
Aelfric to a step forward, but was halted by the guards at his side. "Yuri, stand down! You must leave and take the splicers with you! It is irreplaceable! It must not be in the hands of these brigands!"
"Plus, Regirock and Registeel would hunt us down if we did," N muttered.
Balthus chuckled. "You know us better than that. We didn't come here without a plan."
N rose an eyebrow and turned to the large man. "We did?"
"Do your thing, Hapi!" Balthus exclaimed.
Everyone turned to the red haired girl, who squirmed beneath the stares.
"Wait, do what thing?" Metodey asked, losing his composure.
"Seriously? Right now?" Hapi asked.
Everyone waited for something to happen. Which left Metodey and his group all the more confused. N tried to figure out if this was a plan that Balthus came up with and did not mention to anyone.
"Now, Hapi!"
"Fine. Fine. Fine." She then sighed.
There was silence for a moment until metallic screeching filled the air. Everyone turned to see a flock of Skarmory flying towards them. Even without his ability, N could tell the flock was angry.
The mercenaries that were by Metodey's side ran away in fear leaving their leader to curse them out. Meanwhile, Yuri chuckled at what was happening.
"That sigh of yours never gets old."
Hapi rolled her eyes. "I'm glad you're enjoying the show. It's not like I asked for this gift."
N could feel the resentment in her words. He felt sympathy for the girl. It was clear to him that something had happened for her to acquire such an ability.
"Though I will say," Yuri said as turned to the direction the baits ran, "watching cowards run is always entertaining." He turned to Balthus. "Will you do the honors big guy?"
Balthus smirked. "Leave it to me, Boss! Let's show 'em Grapploct!" The blue octopus at his side grunted as he followed his partner.
Balthus sprinted into the flock of Skarmory, but was quickly met by all of them attacking at once. He tried to fight them all off, but he had trouble getting a good hit.
Yuri groaned. "Hey, quit screwing around!"
Before Balthus could reply several Skarmory grabbed onto the large man and began to carry him up.
Everyone watched in surprise as several birds picked him up and took him to another area of the ruined chapel ground.
"Wow. They flew off with him," Yuri said.
N fought the urge the slap his forehead. If this was the big plan it was clearly not going in their favor. Something that Metodey seemed to pick up as he turned to the group. He was still confused, but was baffled by what he just witnessed.
"Are you lot circus performers?"
N sighed and shook his head. "Not surprised you made that connection."
"He'll sort it out," Yuri said. He turned back to Metodey. "At least we got Aelfric back in one piece. Now, to handle these fools."
Metodey looked like he was about to burst a blood vessel. It was obvious he was not convinced with what just happened.
"This is all cheap tricks! Let's make these children scream! Seviper, Haze!"
The purple serpent raised its head in the air and released black smoke from its mouth. The group covered their mouths and closed their eyes to protect themselves. When the smoke dissipated, Metodey was joined by the rest of the bandits that had not fled after the Skarmory attack.
The rest of the students emerged from the bushes, ready to fight. Even Aelfric was prepared to fight with his Reuniclus suddenly appearing at his side. N questioned where the gelatinous creature had been, but decided that there were more pressing concerns.
"While I do not condone your reckless actions, I'm still glad you saved me," Aelfric said.
"Don't go thanking us yet. There's still the issue of escaping with our lives," Yuri replied.
"Do we have a strategy for dealing with all these guys?" Hilda asked.
Byleth surveyed the area and noticed that the enemy was grouped up in different areas. There was also the issue with getting to Balthus, who was across the field still surrounded by Skarmory.
"Divide into groups. One goes after Blathus, the other pushes towards the leader," Byleth said.
"Good enough for me," Yuri said. "I'll head over to Balthus. Absol'll do well against all those Skarmory."
"I'll join you. Shinx's electric type attacks will do a lot of damage," Dimitri said.
Yuri nodded and then turned to Constance, who turned away meekly.
"We'll need you and Lampent, Constance."
Constance sighed. "Very well. I hope to not drag you down."
"Not at all, Constance. With you and Lampent at our side we're sure to prevail," Dimitri said.
"Someone's got a penchant for flattery," Hapi muttered underneath a chuckle.
"I'll go as well," N said. "Someone's gotta keep an eye on you."
Yuri chuckled. "I'm flattered. Let's go."
The four separated from the rest and prepared to face down anyone who would stand in their way. Yuri drew his sword, Dimitri readied his lance, while Constance prepared her spells. N remained behind them, acting as support. However, he was still ready to draw his sword and that proved to happen sooner than he anticipated.
The route they took to get to Balthus had been cut off. Standing in front of the group were a group of six mercenaries. Two of which had creatures at their side. One had a Zangoose while the other had a Vigoroth.
Yuri chuckled. "This'll be easy. Absol, blow them all away!"
Absol howled and a bright, purple energy collected in his horn. Absol launched two blasts from Psycho Cut and the energy blades collided into the opposing creatures. Yuri smirked, positive his attack knocked them out. He was quickly corrected when the two were still standing.
"Damn, they did not look all that strong," Yuri said.
"Looks like it's out turn!" the bandit with Vigoroth said. "Vigoroth, use Slash!"
"Zangoose, Crush Claw!"
Vigoroth jumped into battle, its claws glowing white. Zangoose charged with its own claws glowing with a red hue to them.
"Lampent, intercept them."
Lampent moved in front of Zangoose's Crush Claw attack. The attack did not phase Lampent, as the glowing claws passed through the ghostly lamp with ease. However, Vigoroth's attack landed on Absol causing for the creature to be pushed back.
"Shinx, Double Kick!"
The blue cub jumped into action and turned his hind legs towards Vigoroth. Before the ape could react, it was kicked in quick succession.
"Follow up, Zorua! Dark Pulse!"
Zorua jumped into the air and a dark energy collect in his mouth. With a screech, the energy blasted towards Vigoroth. The white furred ape yelped as the blast made contact pushed it back and colliding with a tree.
When the smoke of the attack cleared, Vigoroth could not continue battling.
"Oh no, Vigoroth!"
Vigoroth's partner picked up Vigoroth and ran away.
"Well, that's one down," Yuri said.
"That damn coward," the bandit said. "We'll take you guys on. Zangoose, Swords Dance!"
"Looks like this one knows how to strategize," Dimitri said.
"Like it'll do him any good," Yuri replied.
"I'll slow it down. Shinx, Thunder Wave!"
Shinx let out a high pitched roar as a small electric current emanated from his fur. The electricity enveloped the opponents Zangoose, leaving some its fur standing as electric sparks shot off around it.
"You think that'll be enough! Rip them apart Zangoose! Crush Claw!"
Zangoose jumped into battle again, but it did not have the same quick movements like before. Despite her disposition, Constance found her opening.
"Lampent, Flame Burst."
Lampent hovered into the air and blue flames collected in front her. Lampent then spun and released her fire ball. The attack hit, pushing Zangoose back.
"Thanks for the opening, Constance! Absol, Night Slash!"
Absol's horn glowed in a dark purple energy and lunged towards Zangoose. The attack collided with Zangoose and the white furred creature collapsed to the ground.
"You useless beast! Get up!"
However, Zangoose could not get up. The bandit growled and drew his weapon.
"Guess I'll have to do this myself! Let's get 'em boys!"
The remaining bandits at his side roared and drew their own weapons.
N sighed and drew his own sword. "Why can't most disputes be settled with the creature battles?"
"C'mon, Professor, where's the fun in that?" Yuri asked.
"None, really," N said with a shrug.
It did not take long for the four to defeat the bandits. N almost felt sorry for how fast they were taken down. He felt especially sorry for the Zangoose. Its partner had been cut down and it would be in for a sad surprise when it awoke. He knew that even if a creature's partner was evil, they still felt some sympathy towards them.
N sighed and followed the group. They managed to easily take down another group of bandits, with none of them have creature partners. While N did not like fighting, he mentally thanked Jeralt for always having him train with a blade.
When they reached Balthus, they were all surprised to see that several Skarmory from the flock had either been defeated or turned away. N was surprised, but he could tell that both Balthus and Grapploct were getting worn out.
"You guys sure took your damn time!" Balthus complained.
"We hit a couple roadblocks on the way," Yuri replied.
"How do we get all of them to disperse?" Dimitri asked.
"An overwhelming show of force," Yuri answered.
"Now hold on a second," N began to say. He wanted to try and talk with the Skarmory, but will all of them squawking at once made it difficult to hear everything they were saying. "Dammit! It's impossible for me to hear them with them squawking like that."
"Hate to break it to ya, but they're only squawking," Yuri said.
N rolled his eyes. "Thought you'd believe me by now."
"I think we should be focusing on the flock of angry birds," Balthus said.
The two turned their attention back towards the flock of Skarmory. The larger one, which was likely the alpha of the group, screeched and three dove towards the group. Everyone called for their partners to dodge, but Grapploct and Lampent were unable to avoid the attack in time.
"Shinx, Shock Wave!"
A wave of blue electricity emanated from Shinx. The attack struck the armored bird, causing it to collapse to the ground.
"It appears for all that armor, ranged attacks are very effective," Dimitri said.
"Let Dimitri, Constance, and I handle them. Balthus you stay back to recover and Yuri you'll be back up," N ordered.
"I'll only need a moment to catch my breath!" Balthus replied confidently.
"Just stay back big guy," Yuri said. "Let's see how well the Professor fights."
"Lampent, use Flame Burst."
"Shinx, Shock Wave!"
"Zorua, Snarl!"
All three attacks launched towards the flock. Several of the Skarmory collapsed to the ground and the sight caused more to turn away. The alpha Skarmory seemed to cal for them to return, but many were too scared. The alpha Skarmory appeared to take matters into its own hands and let out a large screech toward the group.
"Stay sharp. This one looks strong."
Dimitri and Constance nodded in response and prepared for Skarmory's attack. The metallic bird's wings appeared to take the look of solidified metal and charged toward Lampent.
"That's Steel Wing!"
"Lampent, avoid the attack!"
However, Lampent was unable to dodge in time and the attack hit the ghostly lamp dead on. Lampent remained mostly unaffected by the attack.
"We got lucky. Lampent's a Fire-type, so Steel attacks won't do too much damage," N said. "Let's all attack at once again."
The three fired off the same attack from before, hitting Skarmory for a lot of damage. Skarmory slightly faltered in its flight and was forced to the ground. The three got ready for another attack, but when Skarmory took flight again it eyed the group carefully. It screeched one more time and the other Skarmory still beside it began to fly away. With one more screech, the alpha Skarmory took flight.
"It seems it's done fighting," Yuri said.
N nodded in agreement. "Seems Skarmory wanted to see how strong we were." N turned to Balthus with a sly smile. "Apparently it found Grapploct to not be strong."
"What?!" Balthus bellowed. Grapploct groaned in agreement. "Tell that bird to come back and I'll show 'em!"
"Perhaps another time," Dimitri said.
N nodded. "We should meet up with the others. I'm sure they'll need our help."
—-
Across the field, Byleth and the others were stuck. They had been unable to advance due to the large amount of bandits and bandits with partners. She had hoped to push forward before the bandits could get fully organized, but that proved to be a challenge.
On the bright side, they were making progress. Whenever a bandit's creature partner went down, they typically ran away with them. There was also the fact that the bandits were not all that skilled in combat. Most swung a sword with the most minuscule amount of training. However, with how many of them that there were, it was still a difficult fight.
"They just keep coming don't they?" Claude asked.
"Maybe if you stopped talking, then we'd actually make some progress," Hilda complained.
Claude shrugged as he notched another arrow, which he was running low on.
They needed something big to turn the tide. There was bandit with a particularly strong creature, a Druddigon, that seemed to spearhead the bandits without Metodey present. He was more than comfortable staying back, which frustrated Byleth.
He's their leader. Then why is he so much of a coward, Byleth thought.
Byelth turned to the group. "We have to take down the one with the Druddigon. With him gone, then the rest will crumble."
"Easier said then done, Professor," Linhardt replied.
"We would have to sneak past all of them," Edelgard said.
Byleth nodded. She scanned around for a certain grey-haired teen who had a penchant for stealth.
"Ashe!"
Ashe turned and rushed over to the Professor's side. At his side was his newly transformed Grovyle.
"Yes?"
"Who do you think could help you defeat that Druddigon if they joined you for a sneak attack?"
Ashe pondered the question for a moment. He looked between everyone with his eyes lingering on some for a few moment longer than others.
"I'll need Linhardt, Hapi, and Lady Edelgard."
"Wha? Me?" Linhardt asked.
"No use complaining. Let's go," Edelgard said.
Linhardt groaned and followed the three into a thicker brush.
"Are you sure it's wise to split the group again?" Aelfric asked.
"I trust them to get this done," Byleth said with certainty. "I can only hope N's training will help them."
Within the brush, the four carefully made their way around the battle against the bandits. Ashe kept his head on swivel as he lead the other three. For Hapi this felt relatively easy, however for Edelgard and Linhardt sneaking around proved to be a challenge. The constant stopping made for them to take longer.
As for their partner's, Ashe's Grovyle had taken the lead. It hopped from one tree branch to another quietly. Whenever he stopped, that was a signal for Ashe and the others to stop. It amazed Edelgard the level of trust the two had. She looked to her Rufflet that would move from perch to perch, wondering if she and Rufflet would ever have such a connection.
As for Misdreavus and Munna, the two floated quietly close to the ground. When Edelgard realized the creatures that had joined in them in the stealth mission, she understood why he had picked them.
Hapi, who was at the Princess's side, had come to the same realization. "Interesting choice in partners, Freckles."
Ashe stopped for a moment. He felt his face warm up at Hapi's nickname for him.
"W-well I just thought you all fit what I needed for this," Ashe said.
"But why me?" Linhardt complained.
"Your Munna knows Dazzling Gleam, correct?" Ashe asked.
Linhardt nodded.
"Then you'll be essential against a Dragon-type."
"And me?" Edelgard asked. She was genuinely curious as to why.
"Should the bandit attack us along with Druddigon then we'll need your skills. None of us are the best at close combat," Ashe explained.
"I see. I think you made the right choices."
Ashe smiled. "Thank you, Princess."
"No need for such formality with me. Not right now at least," Edelgard said.
Ashe nodded hesitantly. "I'll keep it in mind."
Above them, Grovyle had gotten the group's attention. He pointed ahead and the group saw the Druddigon and the bandit were only a few more meters away.
"Stay low and quiet everyone," Ashe said.
The group nodded in agreement and followed the grey-haired teen forward.
As they inched closer, the Druddigon began to sniff at the air. The bandit had noticed and turned to his partner.
"What is it?"
Druddigon turned to the brush on its left and began to growl. The bandit turned and noticed some of the bushes rustling. He narrowed his gaze and caught the sight of a Rufflet perched on a tree branch. The little bird tilted his head as the bandit met his gaze.
"It's nothing, Druddigon. Leave it."
However, Druddigon's growling intensified. The bandit rose an eyebrow. There was something there that kept the dragon on edge. Slowly, red-blue energy collected in Druddigon's mouth. With a roar, it released the energy. The Rufflet that was perched avoided the attack, but several trees had a hole blasted through them.
The bushed rustled again and a Grovyle jumped out. Alongside it was Ashe.
"Grovyle, Leech Seed!"
Grovyle opened his mouth and fired several seeds at Druddigon. When they landed several vines grew out of them and coiled around Druddigon's body.
"Now everyone!"
The other three jumped out with their partners at their sides.
"Munna, Dazzling Gleam!"
"Misdreavous, Will-o-wisp!"
"Rufflet, Air Slash!
The three attacks connected, with Munna's attack dealing a lot of damage. The bandit growled and drew his own weapon.
"Damn, kids!"
He charged towards them, but Edelgard held up her axe and met the bandit head on.
"Not so fast."
The bandit growled and readied another swing.
The others focused on the Druddigon. Without its partner is fired attacks with reckless abandon. While largely inaccurate, whenever an attack did land it would deal massive damage.
"We have to keep it from attacking Munna!" Ashe called out.
"Easier said than done, Freckles!" Hapi called out.
Druddigon set its sights on Misdreavus and charged. Its claws glowed with blue energy and it swiped at the floating ghost. Hapi expected it to pass through, but the attack was not Slash as the attack slammed Misdreavus to the ground.
"No, Misdrevous!"
As Druddigon jumped back, energy was sapped from it and a fire engulfed it for a brief moment.
Ashe grit his teeth. Despite Leech Seed and a burn effect, Druddigon showed no signs of slowing down.
I thought burn would limit its attacking power, Ashe thought. "Gorvyle, Dragon Breath!
Grovyle inhaled and a light blue beam of energy was released as he exhaled. The attack made contact and pushed Druddigon back slightly, but it was still not enough.
"Munna, Dazzling Gleam!"
A wave of rainbow colored energy was released from Munna's body and engulfed Druddigon. The attacked forced Druddigon to one knee, but it still looked intent to keep on fighting.
"Get up, Druddigon!" the bandit called out.
"Are you sure you should be getting distracted?"
Edeldard used the opening to strike, causing the bandit to lose his grip on his sword. As Edelgard moved to deal the final blow, a shadow loomed over. She stopped herself mid swing when Druddigon loomed over her. He eyes widened when blue glowing claws aimed to crush her.
"Get out of there, Edelgard!" Ashe called out.
However, she felt paralyzed. The dragon loomed over her and she felt fear. It kept her rooted in place.
"Grapploct, Liquidation!"
Suddenly, a blue octopus landed in front of her. Water had formed around its tentacles and his arms met the dragon's claws.
Edelgard managed to take a step back but collapsed to the ground. Before she fell however, someone managed to catch her. She looked up and saw a familiar green-haired professor.
"N," Edelgard breathed out.
N smiled. "Just in time."
The two looked up and saw that Druddigon had been pushed back. However it quickly picked up its partner and began to flee.
"Come back coward!" Balthus bellowed.
"Leave him, Balthus! They're no longer fighting," N said.
"Professor!" Ashe called out.
N turned to the grey-haired teen and smiled. "You did well to fight off a Druddigon for so long."
"Thank you."
N turned back to Edelgard and helped her stand. Her usual stoic disposition returned to her face as she grabbed her dropped axe.
"I appreciate you coming to our aid. I did not expect for Druddigon to move so quickly," Edelgard said.
"You and me both. Druddigon are usually rather slow." N looked towards the brush where Druddigon and the bandit had disappeared into. "She must've desperately wanted to protect her partner."
Edelgard saw the distant look on N's face. She remembered what N had said about bad people influencing the actions of a creature and wondered if this was one of those instances.
"It seems you were able to rescue B," Hapi said.
"I didn't need saving!" Balthus argued.
"And yet that's precisely what we did," Yuri countered.
N chuckled. "No need for the bickering."
N looked around and did not see the rest of the group. His worry grew slightly when he could not see Byleth.
"Where are the others?" N asked.
"Just bringing up the rear."
Everyone turned to see Claude sauntering with the ones that remained close by. Byleth brought up the rear with Eevee perched on her shoulder and Charmander in her arms. N let out a relieved breath.
"Glad to see everyone made it out okay," Dimitri said.
"Hardly! There were so many of them," Hilda complained.
"All that's left is the leader right?" Claude asked.
"Where is he holed up?" Hapi asked.
"In those ruins over there," N said pointing.
Everyone turned to him with a confused expression. He sounded and looked like he as confident in his answer. Seeing all the confused gazes, N sighed.
"I can hear Seviper's voice."
Everyone seemed to understand. After Regirock most of them were beginning to believe in his ability.
"Do we have to fight him? We have Aelfric and the splicers. Plus, most of the bandits are either defeated or ran away. We can just get out of here," Hapi reasoned.
Everyone looked between each other. They all seemed to be in agreement in deciding their withdrawal from the ruins.
—-
Within the dilapidated ruins, Metodey waited for the children to arrive, but things were taking too long. The bandits that remained were with him, and they were all waiting for a fight. He wondered if the delay was because they children were dead, but the splicers were not in his possesion.
"Where are they?!" Metodey complained.
Suddenly a cold wind picked up within the ruins. The gale was strong enough that Metodey had to turn away and bring his arms up to block what little he could. The gust had dispersed he opened his eyes to see that the bandits that were with him were all dead.
He went to draw his sword, but felt cold steel pressing into his neck.
"Don't move."
Metodey tried to get his Seviper to act, but it was pinned down by an Accelgor. When he realized it was an Accelgor, his eye widened in fear. A member of the Shadow Triad was behind him.
"You are…"
"You've made a mess of things, Metodey," Kage said coldly. "What do you have to say for yourself."
"I'm sure we can be reasonable-" Metodey stopped talking when the steel was pressed further into his neck.
"Now why would a high ranking soldier like you be doing mercenary work?" Kage asked.
"How did…?"
"These are run of the mill bandits. I doubt Lord Ghetsis would've authorized this kind of mission."
"Well, this was done all for the glory of Lord Ghetsis," Metodey said.
"Then why wasn't I informed of this happening?" Kage asked. "And don't lie."
Metodey felt his breath shorten. His mind raced a mile a minute. He had to be truthful.
"I was hired to put on an act, not to get the splicers," Metodey said.
Suddenly, Metodey was released from Kage's grip. He put a hand on his neck and found himself unharmed. He looked towards Seviper, and Accelgor had vanished. Metodey turned to see Kage had vanished as well.
Meteodey swallowed saliva nervously. If Ghetsis found out about this, he would be demoted or worse. The last thing he wanted was to get on the man's bad side.
"You'll keep this to yourself right?"
He got no response.
Atop the ruins, Kage looked towards where the group had moved. What Metodey had said gave him a greater understanding of what was going on. He smiled slightly. Things were about to get a lot more interesting.
Perhaps Lord Ghetsis does not need to know the specifics of everything that transpired, Kage thought.
He spared one last glance towards Metodey, who was making his own escape. Kage scoffed and turned away. Metodey really was a pitiful man.
—-
Once the group reached a far enough distance, they decided to take a moment to recover. Everyone and their partners had given their all to protect Aelfric and the splicers. Some were worse off than others, but no one appeared to be too hurt.
N handed out the healing berries he had brought, making sure to give enough for those that really needed it. He did find it odd how Lampent was able to eat, but did not think too hard on it.
The rest recovered in their own ways. Staying underneath the shade of a tree, or tended to their wounds. After another tough battle, most knew what they needed to do to recover.
N turned his attention elsewhere and saw Aelfric sitting away from the group. He sat alone, with only his Reunicles to keep him company. Aelfric seemed to notice and gave him a polite smile. N returned it, but only gave a half smile. There was still something that felt off to him about the whole situation involving Aelfric's kidnapping, but he was happy that the Ashen Absols were able to get their caretaker back.
The four of the Ashen Absols made their way over to their caretaker, who greeted them warmly. Byleth joined them, but kept her distance.
"You okay, Aelfric?" Balthus asked.
Aelfric nodded in response. "I am, thanks to you all. Are the splicers safe?"
"Yeah, it's safe. Yuri's been holding on to it," Hapi said.
A smile came to Aelfric's face, however it was not the usual, warm smile he presented to most. With the snap of his fingers, several hooded people appeared in a flash of purple light.
The group of Garreg Mach Students moved to fight them, but several more appeared in front of them and surrounded them.
"What?" Constance breathed out.
Yuri then drew his blade and took a swing at Byleth. She was unprepared for the strike and stumbled back, colliding with a tree behind her.
"Absol!"
Absol moved quickly and pinned down Charmander and Eevee.
"Byleth!" N called out.
His frustration continued to grow. He knew something felt off, but had never spoke up. However, he could have never guessed that Yuri would betray them as well.
"Yuri, you damned scoundrel! What are you doing?" Balthus said.
Yuri chuckled. "I think it's obvious as to what I'm doing."
"Beautifully done, Yuri. The splicers are finally mine now; along with the blood of the Four Apostles and the blood of her descendent."
"It seems I was correct. There was an enemy in our midst, but to think it was a bird and not a rat," Constance said.
"You've also had a wild imagination, Constance. That's what made keeping you attention elsewhere was particularly difficult," Yuri replied.
"Enough banter, Yuri. I told you not to divulge too much," Aelfric said.
"What're you planning to do with them?!" N asked.
Yuri turned to the green-haired professor with a cold stare. "They'll all be under the dirt soon. That includes all of you."
Byleth began to stand. She put a hand on her head and shook the grogginess out of her. She turned to Yuri, who bore a more neutral expression. She drew her weapon, but remained at a distance.
"It seems she's up," Aelfric said. "I still need your blood as well, but what's on Yuri's blade will do."
Byleth narrowed her gaze. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"You'll see soon enough and you'll thank me for it," Aelfric said.
"It's all on you now, friend. I'm sure you and him will figure it out," Yuri said quietly.
In a flash of purple, Aelfric, Yuri, the Ashen Absols, and Aelfric's goons all vanished.
When they did, N rushed to Byleth's side. She had a small cut across her stomach, but it was not life threatening. He channeled his healing magic into his hands and made sure she was okay. However, he noticed that there was not a scratch on her.
"Wha…?" N muttered.
"Professor!" Dmitri called out as he and the others rushed over. "Are you injured?"
Byleth shook her head. "N took care of anything that may have been concerning."
"He did run over here faster than the rest of us," Edelgard said.
"Yeah, I didn't do anything. You weren't hurt. Almost like Yuri's strike missed." N said.
"So you're saying he only pretended to attack her?" Claude asked.
N nodded. "That seems to be the case."
"Then she'd just another part of whatever kind of performance he's putting on. Was that really the smartest decision?" Claude asked.
"I'm not too sure," Byleth said hesitantly.
"Now the splicers and the Ashen Absols are gone. I can't even begin to think what will become of them if we don't help," Dimitri said.
"And how do you propose we pursue them?" Edelgard asked, turning to Dimitri. "We have no idea where they could've gone."
"We know what they're after, so that narrows down the possibilities," Claude said.
N put a hand on his chin as he began to run through possibilities. "Aelfic has the splicers. What could he be using it for?"
"I remember Constance saying they were related to the legendary dragons. Could he be trying to summon them?" Ashe asked.
Linhardt shook his head. "Impossible. The dragons were said to have disappeared years ago."
If it was not the dragons, then what could it be? Was what plagued N's mind. He tried to think of other uses for it and why it would need blood. He remembered something Rhea had said to him.
"DNA?" N muttered to himself. "What is DNA?"
"Professors!" an out of breath voice called out.
Everyone looked up to see Rhea. She was guarded by several knights and what looked to be Church bishops. She looked very much out of breath, but all that she showed was her panting.
"Lady Rhea? Why are you here?" Edelgard asked.
Rhea glanced between everyone quickly. She noticed how none of the Ashen Absols were present.
"After sending you all off, I began to look into the linage of the Ashen Absols. In doing so, I discovered that the documented information about their Crests was falsified. The Crests they bear are the same as the ones the Four Apostles bore. The same who enacted the Rite of Rising long ago. By using the blood of the Ashen Absols, he can enact the Rite of Rising again," Rhea explained.
N pondered on her explanation. It felt like there was conflicting information with how the splicer would be used. Aelfric believed it served once purpose, but others another. There was the possibility that Aelfric could have gotten false information, but N highly doubted that.
N heard Dimitri get angry at the prospect of using the Ashen Absols as sacrifices, but N was too focused on his own thoughts. Something was still not adding up. Perhaps whatever the Rite of Rising was, it was not what Aelfric thought it was.
"Aelfric mentioned it has the power to resurrect life. That can't be true, right?" Claude asked.
Rhea shifted her gaze to floor dejectedly. "I do not know for sure. The full expect of the DNA Splicers's power is unknown."
"Wait, DNA Splicers? What's that?" Hilda asked.
"It is the true name of artifact you sought. Its main use is to rewrite the DNA legendary dragons themselves," Rhea said.
A shocked gasp escaped everyone. N's eyes widened and his mind began to race. Things were beginning to add up, but one question remained.
"Can it then somehow resurrect the dead?" N asked.
"Like I said, the full power of the splicers is unknown. It could be entirely possible," Rhea replied.
"So there's a chance that those wild tales are true," Claude said. "But what does the blood of the Apostles have to do with it?"
"Perhaps that what would be needed to rewrite human DNA," Linhardt theorized.
"Could that lead to bringing someone back to life?" Edlegard asked.
Rhea shook her head. "Not exactly. Perhaps one could control the body, but once the spirit is gone then it cannot return."
Hilda and Ashe shuddered at that explanation.
"That doesn't sound creepy at all," Hilda said.
"However, their main purpose was for use on the legendary dragons. It is said that the two were once one, but the Goddess created the DNA Splicers to separate them. That way their combined power could not be misused. In a way, the power of the splicers is similar to that of the Heroes' Relics," Rhea explained.
"Then what do the Ashen Absols have to do with the legendary dragons?" Ashe asked.
Rhea shook her head. "None whatsoever. Aelfric somehow learned that by using the blood of Four Apostles could bring someone back to life."
"So Aelfric lured them all to Abyss for his own selfish reasons. Where could've he learned that?" Claude asked.
In N's mind a single person flashed. It was gone as quickly as it appeared, but it caused a cold chill to run down his spine. While his reaction was minute, Rhea was the only one who caught it.
"This incident was all my own doing. I never should have entrusted the DNA Splicers to them," Rhea lamented.
"Lady Rhea, do you have any idea what they could have gone?" Edelgard asked.
"If Aelfric intends to bring someone back to life then such a ritual would require immense focus. Only some where serene would suffice," Rhea replied.
"There are countless such places behind the monastery walls," Dimitri said.
Silence plagued everyone for a moment as they all tried to figure out a place. For N, only one place really came to mind but he doubted that was it. He assumed that it would be a place for the performer of the ritual to be. Which meant he had to think like Aelfric.
"The Holy Mausoleum?" Byleth asked, breaking the silence.
Rhea nodded in agreement. "A likely possibility. For now, let us return to the monastery. There is still much to consider."
Before they could begin the trek back the clanking of armor and something lumbering could be heard. They all looked to see Alois with his Onix rushing towards them with a frustrated look on his face.
"Lady Rhea!"
"You look troubled, Alois. What has happened?"
"Thieves have broken through Garreg Mach's village walls! They've been pillaging everything!"
Rhea's gaze hardened. "I wonder if this has anything to do with Aelfric."
"I couldn't say for sure, but their numbers are too great. They need the knights! On your order, let us clear the village of those hooligans!"
"Of course, Alois. Pleasure ensure the safety of the villagers. However, leave a few of your best knights with me," Rhea ordered.
Rhea and her guards left without even giving the group a second thought. The group was left to their thoughts for a moment before Claude spoke up.
"Teach, how come you mentioned the Holy Mausoleum so confidently?" Claude asked.
N was wondering the same thing. She had said her guess with so much conviction it was like she was sure Aelfric would go there.
"It's because of Yuri. He said to meet him there. He specified after midnight," Byleth said.
"He told you that? You never run out of secrets, huh?" Claude said.
"Yuri had to have had his reasons for setting up such a meeting. He even took the time to speak with you, even if he was being cryptic about it," Dimitri added.
Edelgard nodded in agreement. "Fair point. I do wonder why it needed to be after midnight. Wouldn't it best if we rushed to their immediately?"
"This is just a guess, but perhaps that was when Aelfric planed to start the ritual," N theorized.
"Whatever the case, this is Yuri we're talking about. There is always a method to his madness," Claude replied.
—-
Aelfric stood in front of her body. She may have been dead for 20 years but even in death she was beautiful. She looked as if she was merely sleeping, but when one went to check for life there would be none.
Aelfric was saddened that she had to die. He could have never imagined a world without her. Even if she was not his, just with her being there he could be happier than ever before. Everything was almost ready.
He held up the splicer. The artifact he needed was finally in his hands. The power that could be unlocked was finally possible. While he knew there were not records that said the splicer could resurrect life, he had to try. If it gave him the opportunity to bring back the woman he loved most he try everything. If it failed he knew exactly what he would do.
Behind the alter which his beloved rested was a coffin. Connected to it were all sorts of tubes filled with liquid and connections that even Aelfric had no idea what they did. He had to thanks Zinzolin for providing such advanced technologies. However, it did not house a corpse, it housed something more. While his research into finding if the splicer would bring back life, he found another use for it: the rewriting of DNA.
He walked over to the coffin and caressed it carefully. He put an ear to it and could hear a slow and steady heat beat. Part of the blood he would take from the Ashen Absols would be put into this creation as well. He was lucky he found that fossil buried in Abyss. Without that he could have never had a starting point for his creation. A creature of unlimited power, all stemming from a legend of a creature that could use any attack in existence.
"It still needs a name."
He pondered what to name it for a moment. An obvious one came to his mind and he immediately rejected it, but kept it in the back of his mind. If he could not come up with something else, then that would suffice.
The coffin began to rumble. Aelfric stepped away from it carefully. He smiled. He finally had a sign that his creation was alive. It was silent for so long, but now he was closer to bringing it to life. A creature of unlimited potential, all under his control.
"Soon, my creation. When you lay your eyes upon the world, I hope you get to see everything she could not."
Aelfric put a hand on the now still coffin and smiled at it gently. There was still one more matter to attend to, and that was Yuri's inability to follow instructions. The smile he had disappeared and what replaced it were furrowed brows.
AN: With that, this chapter ends. Firstly, I want to apologize for how long this took. As always, things have been getting a bit hectic which leaves me little time to write and it'll only get more hectic as my final semester at university comes to a close. I hope to be able to put out the next chapter soon. As always I appreciate your patience.
With this chapter we get even closer to the end game of the Ashen Absol arc. Honestly this arc has felt like it has taken forever, but the slowed down pace really allowed to set somethings up for the future. I hope that the next chapter will be the last, but that'll depend on how I write the final two fights of this part of the game. I know how they'll go but the length is still being determined.
With all that out of the way, I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Feel free to follow, favorite, and/or review if you're enjoying. Stay tuned for the next chapter!