As morning rose everyone had packed everything from camp and was walking back to this Garreg Moach as people chatted in the way the way as Byleth was with Edelgard, Claude, Dimitri, Shez and Sera were having some conversions while his father was talking with Alois as Shez chats with Edelgard while Sera was talking to Claude

Dimitri said "This will be your first time at the monastery won't it? I'd be happy to show you three around campus and what it has to offer you.." Claude chuckled and said "It really is Fódlan in a nutshell for ya. The good and the bad." Edelgard then said getting straight to the point as Byleth looked at her

"Well whether you like it or not, we'll be there soon enough."

The trees part to reveal a grand collection of buildings on top of a hill. A large collection of buildings comes into view among the trees.

"There it is. Garreg Mach Monastery…"

A montage of scenes within the monastery grounds, showing the cathedral and treasure rooms, and teachers and their students at work. The group of travellers enters the monastery. Jeralt stops and looks up towards something or rather someone.

"Rhea is here.." Jeralt said as Alois was taking Shez and Sera a tour around the place to see what activities they could do there as Byleth and Jeralt headed off to meet Rhea who was watching them from above them

Byleth looks up and sees her. Rhea is the woman on top of a balcony, with green hair and dressed in elaborate robes. She looks down at Jeralt and Byleth. As she wondered to herself

"I wonder... Did the flow of time bring you here?" Byleth and Jeralt entered a chamber of the monastery as Jeralt sighed


With Alois giving Shez and Sera the tour of the place knowing they might accidentally get lost while Jeralt needed to talk to Rhea alone Jeralt sighed as his son noticed this

"It's been years since I've last set eyes on this place. To be forced to see her now…" Byleth then said

"So you have been to this place before Jeralt?" Jeralt then said

"I've never spoken of this to you before, but...many years ago, I was a knight here. I reported to the archbishop day in and day out...Lady Rhea." Byleth then said "Lady Rhea?"

Jeralt nodded and said "As you know, the majority of folks in Fódlan are devout followers of the teachings of Seiros. The leader of that ridiculously large religious organisation is the archbishop, Lady Rhea." On cue a woman wearing holy garments a white dress and a headpiece on it this was Rhea and next to him was Seteth a green haired man wearing a dark blue outfit as Seteth said getting straight to the point

"Thank you for your patience, Jeralt. My name is Seteth. I am an advisor to the archbishop."

Jeralt said back "Right. Hello." Rhea smiled and said "It has been a long time, Jeralt. I wonder…was it the will of the goddess that we have another chance meeting like this?"

Jeralt sighed and then said "Forgive my silence all these years. Much has happened since we last spoke." Rhea nodded as she turned her attention to Byleth "So I see. The miracle of fatherhood has blessed you. That is your child, is it not?"

Jeralt nodded to the woman and said "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."

"I see. My condolences. As for you…I heard of your valiant efforts from Alois. What is your name." "My name is Byleth Archbishop…" Byleth bows to her as Rhea said with a smile "A fine name indeed."

Rhea smiled "From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for saving those students of the Officers Academy along with these other two young mercs who I hear will be joining us momentarily after their little tour." "Hmph." Jeralt said the Archbishop then said "Jeralt. You already know what it is I wish to say, do you not?"

Jeralt sighed and said "You want me to rejoin the Knights of Seiros, don't you? I won't say no, but…" Rhea smiled and said "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." As she and Seteth headed off

Jeralt sighed and said "I just can't believe this is even happening to me. Forced back into the Knights of Seiros. I'm sorry I dragged you into this kid. Looks like I'll be stuck here for a while…and I'm afraid your services are requested as well." Byleth then said

"So the Archbishop wants me as a mercenary for hire or a servant?" His father then said back "Ah not they want you to teach, by the sound of it. You heard those brats earlier talking about the Officers Academy, correct? Well, the academy just happens to be short of professors. And apparently that damned Alois went and recommended you to Lady Rhea." Byleth then said "I see so that's why she wants me to be here to teach the next generation.."

Just then a middle aged man and a young woman walked over as the woman said with a smile "So. You must be the new professor. My, how stern and handsome you are!" She even winked as Jeralt sighed knowing his heart belonged to only one woman and said "

"Er, no. I'm not the one you're looking for. You can handle things from here. Good luck." Jeralt then placed a hand on Byleth's shoulder and said in a whisper "

"And…watch out for Lady Rhea. I don't know what she's thinking, making you a professor like this. She may be up to something. Stay on your guard." Byleth then whispered back

"Yes Captain!" Jeralt then leaves the room as Byleth looks at the two professors as the woman said

"Oh so it's you.." Byleth then said "My name is Byleth, a pleasure." The woman's eyes widened in shock. "You're the Ashen Demon so young and serious." The eldery man then sighed and said

"Competence and age are not necessarily correlated, as you well know. I am Hanneman, a Crest scholar and professor at the Officers Academy. I saw you back at camp but didn't have the time to interact." Hanneman looked at Byleth then said "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." Byleth nodded and said "Later perhaps.." "And I'm Manuela. I'm a professor, a physician, a songstress, and available. It's nice to meet you."

Byleth then said as he looked at Manuela and said "So you're a songstress I assumed?" Manuela nodded and said "Of course. Before I came to this wonderful place, I belonged to a renowned opera company. Perhaps you've heard of me? The Mittelfrank Opera Company's beautiful, peerless–" As Hanneman then said interrupting her

"Spare our colleague here the needless chatter, Manuela. 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?" As the woman glared back to the man

"Do you really not know?" Manuela clears her throat and says "The Officers Academy comprises three houses of students, each of which is closely affiliated with its region of origin. The Black Eagle House is for students from the Adrestian Empire. Their house leader this year is Edelgard, the Imperial princess, who is in line to be the next emperor.

Hanneman then said as he showed the flag of Faerghus "The Blue Lion House is for students from the Holy Kingdom of Faerghus. Their house leader this year is Prince Dimitri. He is to be the next king of Faerghus."

Manuela then spoke up "And finally, there is the Golden Deer House, which is for students of the Leicester Alliance. Their house leader is Claude, grandson to Duke Riegan, the leader of the Alliance."

Hanneman then said in surprise "To think that the next emperor, king and sovereign duke are all here. It certainly is a promising year for the academy."

Manuela sighed and said "I'll say. I just hope none of those little treasures cause any trouble for us or Foldan for that matter

Hanneman nodded and said "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." Byleth nodded

Manuela then spoke up "And do 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 really good kids. Good luck. You'll need it." Byleth sees the two teachers leave then left to the library to study on how to become a proper teacher of the academy and get accustomed to it as this went down something else was happening in Seteth's quarters as he was talking with Rhea over a cup of tea


"Have you no intention of changing your mind, Rhea? Appointing a stranger no–Worse the infamous Ashen demon–as a professor at our esteemed academy that is completely in–" Rhea then cuts Seteth off and said

"I have made my decision, Seteth. I know worrying comes naturally to you, but there is truly no need. That "stranger" is Jeralt's flesh and blood, after all and his son." Rhea then has a drink of her tea as her friend said

"I can't say that's all too comforting. How trustworthy is this Jeralt character? Is he not the man who went missing after the great fire 21 years ago? Need I to remind you that Flayn is now here with us as well. I beg of you…please consider whether this is an unnecessary risk." Rhea sighed and said while putting her cup down

"Seteth. They have my trust. Let that be enough for you as well. More importantly, I have received a report from Shamir. I am increasingly concerned about a matter regarding our suspicious individual. We cannot ignore those who harbour ill will towards the church, especially if they are frequenting Garreg Mach." Seteth nods as he sees Rhea getting from her seat

"Yes, that matter is of great importance as well. I shall continue my investigation. Rhea… 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." Rhea then leaves the room to get some fresh air
"Come we must also greet the two mercenary twins that also helped in saving our students." Seteth nods as he gets up from his seat and follows Rhea a few seconds after her


Byleth was reading until he hears the Academies bells ring as he got off his seat and headed to meet some of the students as people were whispering about Byleth as he was walking down the hallway of the main hall

"Hey is that the Ashen Demon here in our school?"

"No way we get to be taught by the Ashen Demon when he teaches class dudes, amazing so amazing isn't the right he's a legend!"

"Aw man I thought the demon would be a she not a he.."

Byleth then hears a whistle as he turns to see Edelgard, Dimtri and Claude sitting on some chairs as Byleth decided to join as he took a seat as Claude said with a casual smile

"So the infamous Ashen Demon has scored himself a teaching gig huh." Byleth then said with a blank stare "Thank you kindly Claude." Dimitri than said with a smile on his face

"So you, a great warrior to lay enemies to waste, will be our teacher. I feel honoured for you to instruct me and my fellow lions Professor Byleth." Edelgard said with a smirk

"Now steady yourself Dimitri, what if Professor Byleth decides to teach the Black Eagles?" Claude then said "Guys you're pretty I know but it's Teach's choice on who's class he's no contest if he chooses me and my fellow dears I test you'll be okay with me calling ya that Teach.." Byleth then said

"Call me what you wish.." Dimitri sighed while pinching his nose "And there you go being so casual Claude can't you just take things seriously for a single minute.." Claude said "I really don't know minutes or the meaning of seriously." Edelgard said with a nod

"Either way we'll show what our classmates can do when you get to them please follow us." Byleth as he follows the house leaders and saw the students talking amongst each mostly about Byleth the Ashen Demon being a teacher and the two mercenary twins that saved the house leaders as Byleth saw the students as Byleth went over to a blue harried boy and said in a shouting

"Shut up and take my gold! The Ashen demon's gonna be our new profesor AWESOME!" Edelgard then said "Casper please lower your volume, we don't want all of Foldan to hear you.." A green haired boy said with a tired look in his eyes as he yawned

"What do you expect Edelgard? He's as loud as his father, sharing his thrills for battle. I'm Linhardt if you must know goodnight." Byleth then spots a Cecil who walked over with a purple haired man that came with him

"For a second back at the camp I thought a different professor would come to the academy, let alone the Ashen Demon here in the very academy we stood in." Lorenz gloucester said in shock as he kept his smile as Cecil then said

"Hmph if he's strong as the rumours say he is then I look forward to having him as a sparring partner as well as our teacher.." Claude said "Now now Cecil we don't call first shots at Teach besides Teach here could give anybody a run if they have the coin that is.." Cecil understood as Claude said taking Byleth a trip of the Golden deers

"Okay, Teach right this way and here you'll meet the rest of the golden deers.." There he saw Leonie, Marainne Hilda, Lysthina, Raphael, Luke and Ignatz

"Hey there Professor, it's an honour to meet you face to face. I did see you back at camp but we barely interacted until now." Leonie lightly punched Luke in the shoulder as she said

"Luke don't take so causal in front of him, this is the Ashen demon for goodness sake and the son of Captain Jeralt, my hero.." Byleth then said

"My father so I take it you know miss.." Leonie then said with a proud grin "Leonie Pinnel Ashen Demon or perhaps maybe just Professor just watch I'm gonna be a great mercenary like Jeralt and nothing will stand in my way.."

Claude rolled his eyes and said with his arms folded "That is if you don't run out of money so easily." "HEY!" Leonie said as Hilda said with a sweetdrop "Oh dear.."

"So the rumour was correct that the Ashen Demon stands before us right here.." As Byleth spots Felix, Dede, Ingrid and Eve who walked as Dimtiri said

"Professor Byleth allow me to introduce you to some of my colleagues Dedue, Felix, Ingrid and Eve.."

Felix then said "Tell me how strong are you Professor?" Ingrid sighed and said "Enough Felix don't provoke him just because you're so eager to fight just like how you interacted with Shez and Sera besides that my is Ingrid a pleasure to meet you Professor Byleth.." Felix scoffed as Eve said with a smile

"Well it's an honour to have you professor here hoping we get along well my names Eve." Dedue bows to Byleth and said "I am Dedue, I have heard that you rescued His Highness from some bandits. Words cannot express my gratitude. Should you ever require my strength, please know that I will hasten to repay this debt." Dimitri sighed and said

"Please Dedue we went through this many times you do not have to worry about my wellbeing.." Hubert chuckled as he came over with a few of the black eagles

"So the Ashen Demon comes to our school and he's getting many respects and idoling I respect you greatly. My name is Hubert Professor. I thank you for rescuing her highness with the two mercenary twins..."

Dorathea giggled and said to Byleth "Pay no attention to him Professor Hubbie's always stubborn when it comes to thank you's escappily high praise with your title as the Ashen Demon.." Hubert growls on hearing the words Hubbie

"My turn? I am Jonas Sikake. My parents were top of the notch Black Eagles and I aim to follow in their footsteps." Jonas said with a smile the students kept on introducing each one by one to Byleth

Ferdinand no doubt introduced himself to Byleth as Ferdinand von Aegir the noble of nobles he was then introduced to Petra a young woman from the land of Brigid, Caspar, Ashe, a saddened Sylvain went next thinking Byleth was a girl due to Byleth's title as the Ashen Demon, Mercedes followed by her best friend Annette went next and lastly Berdnetta who was take out of her room by Ingrid as Claude said as he threw his arms behind his back

"There ya have it you know everyone's names so which class are you gonna tell Rhea that you'll join the Deer?" Edelgard then said with a smirk "I see your strategy Claude and I'll see your calm bet with one of my own once the Professor agrees to my class that is.."

"C'mon Edelgard don't get cocky you almost sound like you wanna win the race when it hasn't started!" Eve said back to Edelgard Byleth sweet drops nervously thinking he might be the cause of the ruckus as Dimitri said placing a hand on Byleth's shoulder

"Fear not Professor this always happens when new teachers come to teach at the monastery some of them run from the academy because of us sometimes.." As he looked at Claude who was arguing with Edelgard as the other students also argued on which class Byleth should join as Rhea saw the whole scene she thought it was thoughtful that the students truly admire Byleth

Rhea then thought that Officers was a place of unity when the students was work together just then she had a great idea as she headed back to the audience chamber


Once Rhea returned to the audience chamber she met up with Seteth as she just saw Alois enter the room with Shez and Sera as he said

"And that just leaves us with the last room the audience chambers along with the head of the church Lady Rhea. These are the mercenary twins I spoke of.." Rhea smiled and said to the twins

" Greetings Shez and Sera. My name is Rhea, and I am the archbishop of the Church of Seiros. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for rescuing our students and also returning Jeralt to us after so long." Shez shrugged and said

"Hey no biggie you take a job and do your best to finish the job." Sera said "Yeah we're always happy to help those in need.." Rhea said with a smile present on her face "Such modesty is not required around me. Your actions were truly commendable for what you've done." Seteth then said getting to the point on why they were summoned to Rhea

"However, the reason we summoned you here was not simply to express our gratitude. We have a proposal for you—one made on behalf of the church itself." Shez then asking about this deal

"What's this deal about anyway?" Shez then got an answer from the green haired man as he said

Someone informed you both of the Officers Academy here at the monastery, yes? We would have you two join this academy as students." Shez and Sera said in shock "You what?!"

Rhea then said "Though you two are mercenaries, I understand you both are not currently beholden to any one particular employer. Also, the students you rescued are close to your own age. Your life could be greatly enriched here." Arval then said to Shez and Sera

"Or maybe this woman has been told of our power and wants to keep us on a very short leash. And yet she's taking it almost as a given that we'll accept. It's infuriating!" Sera said to Arval "Keep it cool, we know what we're doing alright.."

Shez then said "Well we kinda need to get stronger in order to do what we need to do so if this place can do that for my and my sis you have our full attention.." Seteth then said

"If you seek to hone your skills the knights and many strong warriors pass by sometimes maybe that presurde you on joining Whether you seek to someday become an officer or simply increase your own strength, this environment will undoubtedly aid in your pursuits."

Sera then spoke "Well alright you have our full attention we're in." Rhea smiled and said "Great to hear there are three houses in the officers academy, one of Fódlan's three regions. Edelgard leads the Black Eagle House, which is for students from the Adrestian Empire. Dimitri leads the Blue Lion House, home to students from the Holy Kingdom of Faerghus. And Claude leads the Golden Deer House, for students from the Leicester Alliance." Seteth then said
"Normally me and Rhea would decide a lucky draw for your house but this is something you both have to decide on.."

Shez said in surprise, "So any house and we join it?" Rhea nods as Shez and Sera were in deep thought until they both came to decision Shez pointed to the Black eagles flag while Sera pointed to the Golden Deer

"So you have decided to join the Black eagle house and the Golden Deer, is that right?" Shez said "Yep, those are the ones. we're sure of it." Rhea smiled and said "May you both build wonderful and lasting friendships in your new houses." Shez and Sera nodded as Alois took their quarters to get changed into uniforms of the officers academy as the twins left Byleth, Hannaman and Manuela all walked into the chamber as Rhea said

"Ah excellent your here my apologies for calling you three." Hanneman assured him and said "Don't worry it is okay Byleth was the centre of attention due to his title as Ashen Demon but luckily Edelgard and Dimitri calmed the students down, is something wrong?" Rhea shocked her head and said "Nothing big I assure I've come to a decision about who will teach the three houses Byleth I assume that Maunula and Hanuman brought up to speed with Edelgard, Claude and Dimitri?" Byleth nods to the woman

"This year I wanted to try something much different." Byleth asked "Different how?" Rhea smiled and said as if answering Byleth's question "You will be instructing all three houses instead of one.." This shocked the three by a lot as Maunula said

"No way thank you we will do our very best!" Rhea smiled and said "That is excellent to hear.." Just then a young green haired girl entered the room

"Brother? Oh! I am so sincerely sorry! I didn't mean to interrupt what is happening here." Seteth then turned his gaze to his young sister and said "I am in the middle of something, Flayn. Is it urgent?"

Flayn shook her head as she spotted Byleth "No, no, it's nothing. More importantly... Who is this?"

Seteth then said "This is our newest professor at the academy, Professor Byleth."

Flayn gasped as she said with a smile "Oh my! A new addition to the Officers Academy! I am so very pleased to meet you, Professor. I am Seteth's little sister, Flayn. I am so happy to make your acquaintance." As Flayn shook his head

Seteth cleared his throat and said Let us focus on the topic at hand. There is something you should be aware of. In a few days' time, your class will be assigned to eliminate the remaining members of the Iron King's Thieves that attacked the campsite. The leader has already been struck down by you Byleth, and now only a scattering of brigands remain that will be all." Byleth and the other two professors nodded as they exited the room


In the Black eagle classroom Edelgard was chatting with Hubert they were talking about something

Edelgard looked around to see no one around and said "So what do you think? I believe there is a very good chance it will work if we play our cards carefully." Hubert nodded and said

"Perhaps, Lady Edelgard. But is that chance not outweighed by the danger of matters going awry? We have managed to walk the knife's edge so far, but what you are suggesting is open hostility. If they so much as catch wind of our intentions, things will go sideways very quickly.

Edelgard shook her head while saying "Regardless, this is our last opportunity to save her from death. Frankly, it's a miracle we even have this chance."

Hubert nodded and said "I thought you once proclaimed not to believe in miracles, Lady Edelgard." His princess sighed and said

"And I don't—at least not the kind one has to sit around and wait for. But right now, everyone is exactly where we need them. Her, the bandits, the string-pullers...and the perfect instructor with the perfect mission Professor Jeritza. I'm going to make this miracle happen, and I will do so for our future even with the sudden appearance of the Ashen Demon."

Hubert ponders for a second "Hm. Then we'd best have a plan in place to finish the job in case they catch on. expected you to burn a few bridges, but this plan would be akin to setting half the countryside on fire." Edelgard nodded and said

"Which is exactly why I'm counting on you, Hubert. And why I'm grateful to have you by my side." Hubert chuckles as they join to greet Shez who had now joined their class Edelgard smiled and said

"Welcome to the Black Eagle House. I'm pleased you selected us." As Shez was now in the officers academy uniform as Caspar said in complete shock

"Whoa, wait, what? You're a student now? And not only that, you're one of us? That's so great!"

Jonas said with a smile "I'll say happy here's hoping we become great friends.."

Bernadetta said in complete shock and in worry "Wait. Stop! I don't know this person! Oh, why are there so many new faces?"

Dorothea sighed to the scared girl "That's what you get for skipping this year's first field excursion, Bern. A lot happened—there was even a bandit attack. Did you really not hear about any of this?" "Bandits? Nrgh, now I'm extra glad I skipped out!"

Ferdinand sighed and said "I must say, the church took a bold step in enrolling you and your sister—a decision which I, of course, fully support. You helped Edelgard, and we stand to learn quite a bit from one so skilled." As he bowed to Shez as

Petra said with determination "Yes, I have eagerness to examine the fighting of mercenaries! We should be sparring, one versus one in the training grounds."

Linhardt sighed and said "If anyone needs me, I'll be asleep in-" Just before he wabout to fall asleep he forced himself awake and said "Wait, hold on. Do you have a Crest? Did Professor Hanneman even check?"

Shez then said "Oh, he checked, all right. Sorry to say I'm certifiably Crest-less." As Linhardt examined Shez and said "Strange. You definitely seem the type, but I suppose I'm just imagining it."

Edelgard said with pride in her voice "And now you know the rest of our house. As you already met some of us in camp, I assume you knew what you were getting into. We may not be perfect, but we support each other as best we can. Please try your utmost to get along with everyone." Shez nodded with a smile

Petra said looking at someone entering the classroom "Ah here approaches Professor Byleth!" On cue Byleth entered the classroom as Caspar said "HAHAH! I knew it, I knew you would pick Black eagles!" Edelgard said

"Caspar please lower your volume but regardless I'm happy you choose our class." Shez said in shock "Wait a second off all the classes you chose this one!?" Byleth nods and said

"This seems to be everyone now please follow me to the main hall." They were confused as they followed Byleth to the main hall as he informs them that were meeting up with the other professors


Golden Deer classroom

Sera entered her new classroom as Lorenz said in complete as he looked at Sera "Sorry, but do I have this right? This person just enrolled at the academy and now they have become a member of our house?!" As Claude said "Yeah, that's pretty much the deal. Ya know I just love how you can bump into someone in the woods one night and suddenly you're living under the same roof the next. I knew we had a thing! Anyway, Sera welcome to the Golden Deer House, where the only rule is "making your own rules." Kidding, of course-or am I?"

Ignatz gave a thumbs up "The point is, you're one of us now, and it's very good to have you here."

Cecil then said "I agree let us do our very best!" Luke yelled in joy "Oh heck yeah Golden deer for the big W!"

Lysithea nodded and said "While the term's only just started, the church must really like you if they're letting you join part way through. You have to be pretty skilled to get that kind of treatment."

Leonie had a shocked look and said "Well, I believe it I have been told about her and what her brother can do! How many people our age can cut it as full-fledged mercenaries? I definitely see why the church was interested, and I can't wait to train together." Sera nodded to Leonie

Raphael next said in joy "And I can't wait to eat together! Or work out. You wanna go work out? Seriously, you need to put some muscles on that coat rack you call a body. Bulk up like me!"

Hilda sighed and said "Hm, I don't think the "strained shirt buttons" look is for everybody. Any more meat on those bones and our friend here would look downright scary. Our new friend's build is perfect as it is. Wouldn't you agree, Marianne?" Hilda went over to her depressed friend

"Oh! Well, I don't... Um." Claude said "OK, OK, everyone just loosen up. And hey, it's not as if we haven't met already, so just sit back and make yourself at home."

However Lorenz sighed and said while glaring at Claude "I would not take after Claude if I were you, new blood. Honestly, if you wish your time here to be fruitful, you would do well to follow my lead." Just then Professor Maunlea enters the classroom which to Leonie's disappointment but however Maunlea then asked the students to kindly follow her to he main hall once there they spot the Blue Lions as they too were shocked the other class as Hannaman had a proud grin on his face

"Claude?" Dimitri said in surprise as Sera said "Huh Dimitri?" Claude then said "So are the deers gonna have a study season together with the lions?" Hanneman said

"Maybe but hold all questions until Professor Byleth arrives with the black Eagles.." On cue Byleth and his group arrived Claude took a shine as this caught his attention Dimitri was shocked but kept a calm face as Byleth said

"You all must be wondering why you're gathered today the Archbishop herself has decided for me, Professors Maunlea and Hanneman will be teaching you all in one single class collectively!" The students gasped in complete shock it was surprise but it wasn't that bad

"So you're saying that the three houses, the Blue lions, Black Eagles and Golden Deer, will merge into one single house." Ferdinand said still trying to process this as Manulea said "Nonsense Ferdinand there will still be still the same like always and you'll be educated by all three of us.." Byleth said

"In other words the 28 gathered at this moment will be educated by us therefore there shall be no Black eagles, Blue lions or Golden deers you'll be all treated as individuals no more no less.."

Claude chuckled and said "I gotta hand it to Rhea, she thought of this wisely smart move.." Sera grins and says "This is gonna be one of a year if we're all being taught together." Shez sweet-drops as he looked at Sera and Claude as if they had sinister smirks on their faces and said "Okay my sister smiling with Claude that's spelling trouble right there.." Edelgard and Dimitri nodded as Edeglard said

"Regardless of the matter, this might prove to be quite useful!" As she gave a smile as the students took their seats in the main hall as the first lesson of the unified class a few days as things went well on one of the days Byleth went to Professors Hanuman's office to study if the Ashen demon had a crest as he was taught that crests strength the owner of said crest and can have the owner use heroes relics


The crest scholar's office

Byleth then said as he took his left glove and said "So you're saying I could have a crest that may link to a hero's relic?" The older man then said "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." Byleth said with a nod

"Then I'll be counting on figuring out what my crest is.." as the Professor said "Yes, of course. I'll get to the bottom of it straight away." As Byleth placed his hand on the sphere it showed a mysterious symbol as the professor was surprised at what he learned "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." Byleth nods as he placed his glove back and left the office


With Shez and Sera

As class had a lunch break Professor Maunlea took the time to introduce Shez and Sera to a masked instructor named Professor Jertiza von hymn the weapons instructor as he said in deadpanned yet almost emotionless voice

"Hello.." Shez then said with a smile adrmeieng the man "I can already tell I'm gonna learn a lot from you." If one looked closely one could tell that Jeritza was smiling at the twins "Oh will you, now? That sounds quite excellent. I hope to see what you both can do on the battlefield at the end of this month because of our mission.." Sera said in confusion

"Wait at the end of the month and what mission?" Maunlea facepalmed and said "Oh wait that's right your both new students each month, the houses in the academy are given a mission entailing some form of service to the church since it's now one house you get the picture." Sera said

"I get it now.."


As the days passed Byleth had the teaching gig all sorted even Sothis giving him a hand once or twice and once the month reached it was time for the mission the unified class was going with Byleth and Jertiza for this one to rout the iron king bandits

Edelgard is seen talking to Jeritza and bows to him before walking off elsewhere. Seteth approaches Jeritza. As he said casually to the masked man "Ah there you are, Jeritza. I have words from the knights." The man then said "It is time?" Seteth nods and said

"Yes it is. The bandits have fled north into the canyon bordering Count Rowe's land in the Kingdom. But the knights have cut off their escape, and they stand ready to provide whatever support the students may require." Jertiza then said

"Good then we'll leave at once." Before the man could make a move Seteth then said "Just to be clear is the first real battle for some of our charges. I trust you will keep them safe with Professor Byleth—though I likely do not need to worry with you at their side." Jertiza shook hus head meaning no just Shez came as Jertiza said

"You there. It's time for the mission. Gather the other students and the Ashen Demon." Shez grins and says with a wild grin on his face "Oh right about time we saw some action."

Byleth got his equipment ready for the mission as Jeralt entered his room and said "You seem well. Are you adjusting to life at the monastery?" Byleth then said

"It is a bit new for me but I took care of it.." Jeralt then said

"Well, I didn't expect it would be easy on you. When we were mercenaries, I handled everything. Outside of battle, you didn't have much contact with people, did you? I thought being thrown into a swarm of noble brats to teach would be a bit much for you. It seems I was right to worry." Just before his father could leave he said

"By the way, I heard about those bandits. Your first assignment is to take them out, right? That's fairly routine for you by now, but don't forget it's the first real taste of battle for those kids. It'll be tougher to sleep at night if you let one of your little pupils die on the field, so stay vigilant and lead them well." Jeralt grabbed his kids shoulders and said "I wish I could offer you my support, but Lady Rhea won't allow it. For now, I'll try to figure out what she wants from you. I don't mind you settling into your life here, but don't let your guard down. Ever." Byleth nods understanding his father and captain as he left the room


A while later

With everyone gathered they headed out as they arrived at the bandit stronghold to see there was nothing there as Byleth asked if the knights lost sight of the target as the man said

"I am ashamed to admit it outloud but yes we did. It's possible someone magicked the bandits away. But why go to that kind of trouble for a handful of highwaymen scum?" Jertiza scoffed and said

"So be it. We'll follow the blood-scent." As he wandered off as the students and Byleth followed him as Jonas said "Yeesh Professor Jertiza don't run off on us like that WHOA!" As he spots a dead corpse next to the man Berdenetta shrieked in shock and said

"EEK BANDITS!?" Felix went to the corpse and felt its neck to see if the man was still breathing and said "Hmm From the look of it, they're bandits. Or they were since the Professor took their lives." Eve then said

"So are these the villains we're chasing?" Jertiza then nodded and said "Most likely. I caught them trying to escape, most likely to that fortress up ahead." He points to the fortress up ahead as Caspar gasped in complete shock

"THAT FORTRESS?!" Ferdinand said with a sigh to his blue haired companion "Yes, Caspar, that's what he said. Something you want to share with us?" Caspar shrugged and said "Nah it seems out of place." As some of them had a deadpanned exopersions to the boy

Hilda then said with a hmm "You are something else, Caspar. Still, I guess the place does look kind of suspicious." Ashe, despite shaking, said "In that case, we'd better clean the place out before they harm the nearby villages of this place."

Felix scoffed and said "They've got their tails between their legs now, so this should be easy. Let's get in there and wipe them out." Leonie then said "I agree standing around will do nothing." Dorathea said speaking up

"Well It might be a little dangerous for us to handle on our own so keep it together.." As she looked at Felix, Caspar, Leonie itching for a fight as

Bernadetta said with a quick nod "Yes! I mean, I agree. We should all, um, go home. Right now." Ingrid instantly grabbed the scared by the hood to prevent her from fleeing

Shez then said with a proud grin "We'll be heroes if we manage to take out the entire bandit outpost! This is the kinda stuff me and Sera live for!" Sera chuckled and said "Heck yeah I wanna suggest holding back but where's the fun in that?"

Linhardt said in surprise " Since when are you both so gung-ho? And so righteous Oh, right. Since always." Dimitri then said "Everyone calm down, it's not up to us but to our professors!" Edelgard nodded as Claude said "Yeah I agree so Teach what's our game plan?"

Byleth then said raising his silver sword at the fortress I say enter the fortress. Dispatch any bandits you find. To prevent them from trying the same thing twice!"

Jonas then said "Okay you're in charge Professor!" As they start to walk over to the fortress as Jertiza said "Besides if they are not we may end up chasing ghosts!"

Lysithea then said as if worried "G-GHOST!?" Until she calmed down and said "how childish. Everyone knows there's no such thing. We're hunting bandits, not banshees, so can we please just get this over with?" Leonie came over and said

"Lysithea, don't tell me that you're... You know what? Probably better not to ask." Just then they spotted a bandit and said as he looked at the class "Huh hey we got intruders!" Byleth then said

"Now that we know they are here, it is time to put your skills to the test!" Everyone nodded as they were ready as Sothis spoke in Byleth's mind " So, we are taking children into battle, are we? I am not certain I will be able to sleep soundly after beholding something like that... I shall allow you to turn back the hands of time, but warn mortal this power is not infinite!" Byleth nodes to Sothis as he thanked her should the need come for Divine pluses


"Get over here you bad guy cause I'm gonna beat ya so hard you'll forget you were even a bad guy!" Caspar as he was using gauntlets to punch a bandit back as he stumbled back as Caspar yelled "I'll have your head!" He defeats the bandit as he fell to the ground Caspar wiped some sweet from his forehead and said

"Phew, are all real battles this exciting? Come on, let's get on to the next one!" As he rushed Felix blocks an attack from from a bandit as the young man kicked the bandit and slashed him down Felix scoffed and said

"Finished already?" Felix scoffed in disappointment "I was hoping for more of a challenge from you." Felix went onwards as he went to fight more bandits

Byleth dodged an attack from a bandit as he spotted the main gates and said "Claude take Ferdinand and Lorenz and take the main gate!" "On it Teach!"

Claude and the two nobles charged at the main gate shocking the bandits as they had no trouble taking it and taking down the bandits Claude said

"We were taken by surprise last time, but... I guess this is what we can expect when battling thieves." Lorenz said "Oh please Claude this is the noble's duty to guard the welfare of the people. Nothing personal to these ruffins." Ferdinand chuckled and said "Indeed they were no match for our skills!"

Cecil dodged an attack from a bandit as he slashed him down and said "A shame thought you'd put more of a fight then your fallen allies a shame.."

As the group pressed forward they saw a gatekeeper as he said "No don't come closer you hear me!?" Jertiza said "Now we know who to kill to open the gate strike this fool down." Shez nodded as he jumped into the fray and made mince meat out of the man

Shez sighed and said "Well it comes to death, it's an old friend so tell them I said hello." Shez then turns around and sees Dorathea, Annette Lysithea and Linhardt who was in shock at what he just did to the bandit he fought. "Oh good lord I...I killed them. What have I done? The blood…" Dorathea, Annette and Lysithea shrugged as they said " I did it! See? I'm a great fighter!" "A precious opportunity to test my own strength. I won't make a waste of your deaths."

As the group entered the fort it was bigger than they thought informed the students to split up and take a stronghold each Dedue and Hilda then found a treasure chest but it was locked as a bandit was trying to reach the chest until it was blasted by Eve who said as she took the keys from the dead bandit

"I regret taking your life but this is what experience does for everyone and for me!" Berendetta shot down a bandit with her arrows as the bandit died as she said " I can't take this anymore! I want to go home!" Sylvain said to her "It's gonna be fine Berendetta though I'm surprised how well fortified this place is.." Ingrid slashed down a bandit on her end as she took the stronghold and said

"I know relaxing won't help here but we need to prepare for our next battle, remarkable those bandits found a good place to hide in since the walls are strong.." Once all the locations were taken Marianne said as she held her hands together

"Goddess, watch over their poor souls." Dimitri then said "That's all the locations taken care of unless something else intrigues you Professors.." Jertiza hummed as he said "Search the basement. Something is amiss." Shez and Sera nodded as they entered the basement and saw someone down there in one of the cells, a young woman with red hair wearing an officer's uniform she looked like chained up blindfolded and her mouth gagged up as Sera said from the attic "Hey, there's a prisoner down here! And she looks like...an academy student?"

Just then they spot some bandits as Shez and Sera took them down with ease as the everyone headed over to the attic and freed the young girl while removing blindfold and mouth gag as everyone was worried about her until she opened her red eyes and started breathing as she said looking at everyone

"Are…Are you here to rescue me?" Just then she gasped and saw Edelgard "L-Lady Edelgard?!" Edelgard gasped and said "Monica? But how are?" She shook her head and said "No my questions, we need to get you out of here. Shez would you mind carrying her? It's most likely her legs are recovering from these !" "Got it!" Shez said as lifted Monica into his arms as she gasped looking at Shez and his smile as Moncia covered her face with a massive blush on her face

"Stop them, don't let the girl escape, otherwise Kronya is gonna blame our sorry asses for this!" Just then these people in black robes came out of nowhere as Monica said "Oh no it's they're back!" Byleth then said "There's a lot of them I know we can't take them all on!" Jertiza nodded and said

"Agreed Ashen Demon We must take the girl and run for it!"

Ferdinand nodded and said "Whoever they are, they seem to be targeting that student-and it falls upon us to keep her safe, no matter the cost!" As they took on the mages Shez would fight but he was busy carrying Monica in his arms as the others

Petra slashed down a black mage that almost came in contact with Shez as she said while swinging her blade a few times "People and beasts are as one. Calm your heart, and do not be worried about this killing." Jonas said "Glad we're not enemies Petra but as not expected from the heir of Brigid!" Cecil then slashed down another black mage and said "These aren't so tough!" After escaping the fortress everyone catched their breath as Shez gently allows Monica to stand as her legs had fully recovered as she said

"Okay I think we're safe now.." Jonas said "That's great to know but how did the heck did you even kidnapped by the-" He was interrupted as a voice yelled out in complete anger

"OKAY! WHO IS THE WISE GUY THAT CAME AND TRASHED UP MY FORTRESS!?" Just then everyone turns their gaze to see a grey skinned woman holding a backwards knife it was most likely she was an assassin in that getup

Mysterious woman- Kronya

"Hello you dummies let me introduce myself I'm Kronya the last thing you'll ever see in this life so I'm gonna say this once put Monica back where you found or I'll kill you and put Monica back in her cell myself!" Byleth then said

"That must be those mages' leaders they talked about it get her!" Jonas nods as he charges into battle as he attacks Kronya first as she gasps in horror as she sees Jonas's face 'M-Myntra!?' Jonas then kicks Kronya Dimitri and Edelgard charged at Kronya as they attacked her next as she blocked the attacks as she said to the heirs

"If you've got any pretty last words lined up, now would be the time. Not that I'm going to pay attention!" Edelgard said "I have some If you truly are Kronya, then it is you who will die this day." Kronya growls as that allows Dimitri and Edelgard to weaken Kronya Byleth then charged as he slashed Kronya so hard as Shez and Sera were up next as they slashed Kronya into a wall as she was struggling to keep fighting

"GRR! DAMMIT All right, you asked for it... Release the creature we captured!" Just then a noise was heard as a silver skinned monster emerged as it roared at the class and Byleth Kronya then vanishes from sight as she watched the fight from afar as Edelgard said

"This is going to be trouble…" Claude said in shock "Whoa! What is that? Looks like some sort of giant beast…" Dimitri swung his lance around and said "Well get ready, everyone! We have to take it down!" As they nodded as they took the demoniac beast with their weapons it took awhile but the beast finally went down while Shez delivered the final blow as Kronya said in complete shock

"HOLY ABYSS! They defeated a Demonic Beast with ease DAMNIT! Thales isn't going to like this at all…" Kronya said to herself "Unless I report that Monica accidentally escaped and it wasn't the fault of the Ashen Demon.." Kronya then wraps away as the class saw her flee Edelgard growled that she allowed that fiend to escape as Claude said "Well, at least we beat her and her cronies. That's what counts."


After a few feet away from the fortress

Monica smiled as she breathed in the first air in a long time as she said while twirling around "ew, I thought I would never breathe fresh air again for as long as I lived. I'm not sure what to say except...thank you, everyone." As she smiled at the group

Jonas then said "How did you end up in such an awful place, Monica? I heard you went missing in House Ochs territory." Monica nodded and said

"Indeed I was. In fact, I was on the verge of graduation with the rest of my class and my friends when I was kidnapped by the strangest people no one had ever seen." Monica gasped as she said

"Oh, how silly of me not to introduce myself. I'm Monica von Ochs. I'm the eldest child of Baron Ochs, and Edelgard's allies. Seeing as you saved my life, I plan to devote that very life back to helping your cause." Monica then looked at Shez and muttered "And e-escapilly you mysterious mercenary.." Shez was confused on the muttering as Edelgard chuckled and said

"You've not changed at all-though I do appreciate the enthusiasm from you."

Hubert then speaks up "Monica was a Black Eagle in last year's class. One might say she's part of the old guard."

Mercedes then said as she was healing Eve "That would make you our senior. But what are you doing in a place like this?" Monica felt kinda offended. "I'm not sure how I feel about you calling people old thank you."

After Monica's introduction Byleth's class regrouped with Alois and got him up to speed on what had happened as he had said

"Mmm, yes. I think I understand. This all began when the knights lost sight of the bandits and you gave chase. Afterward, you entered a suspicious fortress and rescued a missing student. Well, there's nothing wrong with that! I'll be sure to smooth things over for you once we're back." Byleth nods and said "Sounds good. But, uh, why are you even here, Alois? What brought you here.."

Alois "Well Professor because the knights sent for help after you left them behind. Did you expect anything different? Not that I'm trying to lay blame at your feet. I know you were following Professor Jeritza's lead, so I think everyone involved can head home knowing that they did just swell. For as you know...all's swell that ends swell!" He even had a funny grin as Dimitiri held a bit of a chuckle while some groaned at the joke as a knight then said

"Still, I find this rather a grave turn of events. To think the same bandits who attacked our charges were behind another student's abduction!" Monica then raised her hand and said "I never said I was kidnapped by bandits." Edelgard then said

"Now that I think about it, not everyone in that fortress was dressed like a common rogue. Perhaps the bandits were mere decoys while some other villain pulled strings behind the scenes. Dimitri then said "You might be onto something there El.." Sera nodded and said

"Yeah and there was on real piece of work—Kronya, I think—who managed to escape. I've seen all kinds of people as a mercenary, and she was definitely not your everyday bandit, especially with grey skin and red eyes."

Monica nodded and said "You're on the right path. Perhaps I should just tell you who kidnapped me, seeing as I already know.."

Alois then said "What? Why didn't you mention this earlier?" The knight then said "What do you know, child? Out with it."

Monica then said as she turned to Edelgard "Her Highness can vouch for this, but my memory is quite strong. I'm certain of what I saw or rather who." She then said in a very serious voice "The one who kidnapped me was surely Tomas the eldery librarian." This shocked everyone as the knight spoke up "Tomas? But that's Impossible!" Alois nodded and said "But Tomas has been at Garreg Mach even longer than I have. I don't want to believe it, but based on what you say, we've no choice but to investigate." The knight nodded on agreeing as Jeritza said

"Be on guard. If Tomas is in league with Kronya, he is as dangerous as Kronya." The Knight then said "Very well. I will quietly report the matter to Lady Rhea and leave the decision in her hands. Not a word of this to anyone. Is that clear?" Byleth nodded to the knight as the students were returning to the monastery Shez and Sera talked to Arval about Kronya

"Well, now things are getting interesting! Honestly did not see this coming. So what do you make of this Kronya? Why do you think she was at the fortress?" Shez then said as he folded his arms "Well you seemed preoccupied with her during the battle. Is she a friend of yours?" Arval shook his head "Hadly, I wouldn't know. My memory is but a shadow at this point. Gone! Vanished! Lost! I remember meeting you, but before that? Nothing at all. And yet, the moment I saw her, I was struck with the most inexplicable feeling. I couldn't tell you if it was revulsion or affection. It was simply...pure emotion." Sera sighed and said "And here we thought we had it rough."