Edelgard tightened her grip on her dagger as she lost her axe.
Kostas charges at her.
Edelgard is shocked when the bandit appears out of nowhere. Before she can do anything, Byleth gets in front of her, and Kostas brings his axe down to Byleth's back. Byleth braces herself for the impact.
Fortunately, it never came. Jay-Jay appeared in front of her, caught the axe between his fingers, and sent a powerful palm strike at Kostas' chest.
The bandit leader is sent flying back and landing flat on his back out cold.
Edelgard is surprised by Jay-Jay's sudden appearance. "Who are You?"
Jay-Jay turned to her and flashed her a warm smile. "Name Jayvon Jayson, but most people call me Jay-Jay,"
The two ladies are taken back at how handsome and cute Jay-Jay is and they both have a faint blush.
"Jayvon Jayson? Never heard of that name before," Edelgard said before holding her hand out for a handshake. "I'm Edelgard von Hresvelg. A pleasure to meet You."
"Pleasure all mine," Jay-Jay said before kissing Edelgard's hand, earning a smile from the future empress. Jay-Jay turns His attention to Byleth. "And you are?"
"Byleth," Byleth introduced herself.
Before anyone could say anything else, a masculine voice called out to them.
"Over here!"
The three shifted their gaze to the source of the voice and saw Claude and Dimitri running over to them.
Dimitri notices Jay-Jay's presence. "Who are You?"
"The name Jayvon Jayson," Jay-Jay introduced Himself with a gentle smile.
Sensing no ill intent from Him, Dimitri lowers his guard. "Dimitri Alexandre Blaiddyd,"
"The name is Claude von Riegan," Claude introduces himself with a wink. "What brings You out here stranger? Not every day to see traveling out here,"
"I'm a solo healer," Jay-Jay answers. "I go around and help people that need it."
"I see, but aren't You worried that You might get killed?" Dimitri asked, his voice filled with concern. He takes note of Jay-Jay's clothes. He had never seen the clothes before, but from the looks of it, they didn't offer much protection in a fight as the shirt exposed His arms and shoulders, the jeans looked tight which would restrict His movement, and the shoes didn't look like they do much.
"I'm flattered by the concern, but trust Me, I can handle Myself just fine," Jay-Jay reassured Dimitri.
Edelgard takes note of Jay-Jay's features. She has never seen anyone like Him before. 'He definitely from the lands of Fodlan,' Edelgard thought, carefully examining the Supreme Warrior. 'He certainly has some big lips and His hair is nothing like I've seen before. I kinda like it, I should find out more about this Jay-Jay character.'
"Hey, that's the guy that took out the boss!" A bandit shouted, pointing at Jay-Jay.
"Heh, this Guy did?! He doesn't even look like a fighter, He is more fit to be a model than anything!" Another bandit shouted, bewildered that He is the one that knocked out their leader.
"Well, it seems like reinforcement arrived," Claude pointed out with a smile to hide how nervous he was. "And they have us outnumbered, we should definitely retreat."
"As much I agree with that sentiment, they block off any escape paths," Byleth said, her grip tightening her sword. "We have no choice, but to fight."
"Jay-Jay, get behind us!" Dimitri commanded. "It is too dangerous for You to participate in this fight as You have no weapon."
"As I said, don't worry about Me, I can handle Myself just fine," Jay-Jay flashed Dimitri a reassuring smile before charging towards the bandit group.
"Jay-Jay wait!" Dimitri shouted in horror as he reached out to grab Jay-Jay, but Jay-Jay is too fast for him.
Byleth chased after Jay-Jay to assist Him, she is bewildered at the fact that Jay-Jay recklessly threw Himself to the group of bandits with no regard for His life.
However, she quickly finds out why Jay-Jay threw Himself to the group with so much confidence.
A big and burly bandit laughed at Jay-Jay. "Oh, You want to fight, pretty boy? Well, allow me to give that honor You dumbass!" The bandit brings his giant hammer at Jay-Jay.
Jay-Jay caught the hammer with one hand.
Everyone's eyes widened in shock at the scene.
"Wha?" The burly bandit was flabbergasted as he took a step back in fear. "H-how?!"
Jay-Jay said nothing and retaliated with a powerful hook kick to the bandit's side.
The burly bandit yelps in pain and falls to one knee.
"Y-You B-bastard!" The burly bandit managed to curse through the pain. "Y-You w-will p-pay f-for t-that!" The burly bandit tried to get up, but the pain was too much for him, forcing him back down while holding his side.
"No way, He just took out Kenny with one hit!" A bandit said in surprise. "He was the physically strongest out of us!"
"W-what do we do?" Another bandit questioned, slightly taking a step back from Jay-Jay.
A short bandit woman growled. "We still have the numbers against Him and those brats! We can still kill Him and the brats and run off the gold! Don't be pussies!"
The bandit nodded and gained a renewed vigor as they circled Jay-Jay and the other four while glaring at them.
"Well, there is no way out of this one," Claude chuckled nervously as he aimed his bow at the bandit group.
"We'll stick together and cover each other backs," Edelgard commanded, her grip tightening on the dagger.
"And whatever you all do, don't get on the ground," Byleth added, eyeing the bandits in case they make any sudden movements.
The short bandit made the first move as she took her dual daggers out and leaped towards Jay-Jay. She sends a flurry of wild swings. Jay-Jay easily bobs and weaves the attacks and end the onslaught with a mean uppercut. The short bandit shot up in the air and landed flat on her back, dazed. However, the fight was far from over as four bandits charged at Him and all attacked Him simultaneously. They were hoping to overwhelm Jay-Jay. Sadly for them, it didn't work as Jay-Jay easily dodges or blocks the attacks. He grabbed one of the bandits and headbutted her, knocking her out. He leaped over to the other bandit and German suplex him. Taking him out for the count. Jay-Jay dashed to the last bandit and landed a tornado kick in the bandit's face. The bandit flew across the forest and landed on his back, out cold. Jay-Jay saw 20 bandits approaching Him and He charged at them.
"Jay-Jay, I'm coming!" Dimitri shouted as he pushed back a group of bandits and advanced towards Jay-Jay. He sees that Jay-Jay is outnumbered. 'There is no way Jay-Jay could take them all on, I have to hurry!' Dimitri thought races in concern for Jay-Jay. However, he broke out of his thoughts as he sees something out of the corner of his eye and he narrowly blocks a stab from a bandit. The bandit scoffs and jumps back from Dimitri. "So you're Prince Dimitri?" The bandit asked, looking over Dimitri. "I have to say, I wasn't expecting you to be such a pretty boy."
"If you came over here to make small talk, I suggest you leave," Dimitri warned, narrowing his eyes at the bandit. "I have no time for this."
The bandit chuckles. "Sorry pretty boy, but you're dancing with me now!" The bandit lunged at Dimitri and tried to stab Dimitri in the heart. Dimitri sidestepped the attack and swung his spear in a wide arc. The bandit narrowly dodges the attack and he takes a knife and throws it at Dimitri. Dimitri deflected the knife and advanced towards the bandit. Dimitri swings his spear at the bandit's side. The bandit tries to block, but he is shocked when Dimitri breaks his sword and he pushes back into a tree.
The bandit yelps in pain as he landed flat on his ass. 'What the fuck was that?!' The bandit's eyes widened in shock as Dimitri approached him. 'That strength...there is no way that this pretty boy is human!'
Dimitri raised his spear and brought it down on the bandit. The bandit closes his eyes as he accepts his fate. However, another bandit came and intercepted the blow with an axe.
Dimitri is taken aback by the sudden appearance, but he quickly regains his composure.
"Dear, get out of here!" The bandit shouted, concerned for his wife's safety. "This man's strength is nothing like we have seen before!"
The woman's bandit tightened her grip on her axe. "I'm not leaving you behind my beloved!" The woman charges at Dimitri and swings her axe at Dimitri's neck.
Dimitri blocked the attack. His expression softened as he could see the bandit couple clearly loved each other. He feels sympathy for the circumstances they are in as he can tell that they are good people who are desperate to get by. Nonetheless, they are in battle and all of their lives are forfeit.
Byleth parried a blow from a large bandit and swiftly kicked him in the balls. The large bandit grunts in pain, however, he ignores it as he sends another swing with his broadsword. Byleth blocks the attack, but the large bandit's strength is immense as the blow skids her back. The large bandit thrust his sword into Byleth's chest. Byleth narrowly dodges and countered with a slash. The large bandit stumbles back and hissed in pain. "Now you have done it!" The large bandit growled before lunging at Byleth and sending a flurry of wild and rapid swings and slashes. Byleth either blocks or dodges the attacks. Byleth sees an opening and stabs him in the stomach. The large bandit's eyes widen as he looks at the wound and falls to his knees in shock. Byleth kicks him down harshly and heads towards Jay-Jay as she sees 20 bandits approaching Jay-Jay.
Edelgard is blocking and dodging with her dagger as two bandits attack her simultaneously. One of the bandits sends a clumsy kick at Edelgard's stomach. However, the kick did nothing as Edelgard grabbed his leg and tripped him. Edelgard is about to finish the job when the other bandit tackles her and begins to wail at her. Edelgard raises her arms to shield herself from the rain of fists. The bandit desperately tries to break through Edelgard's guard, but it is no use. Seeing the bandit growing tired and his blows getting weaker. Edelgard grabbed the bandit shirt and headbutted him, breaking his nose as blood spilled out. "UGH! YOU FUCKING BITCH!" The bandit cursed, holding his nose in pain.
Edelgard tries to go for her dagger, but the bandit from earlier kicks it away and frantically swings his mace around to hit Edelgard. Edelgard narrowly dodges the blows. She is on edge as she is without a weapon. The bandit swings his mace, however, he is too eager with it and Edelgard sees that he left himself vulnerable. 'Now, my chance!' Edelgard thought as she got behind the bandit and grabbed his arm before breaking it. The bandit howled in agony as he lay on the ground, tears falling down his eyes as the pain was unlike anything he felt before. Seeing the two bandits out of commission, she grabbed her dagger and dashed to assist Jay-Jay.
"So is there no way we can talk this out?" Claude questioned, flashing a charming smile at the five bandits approaching him.
He got his answer when one of the bandits charged towards him.
Claude frowns a bit. "Well, I was hoping we could talk this out like reasonable adults, but oh well," Claude took an arrow out and shot it toward the bandit. The bandit tried to deflect the arrow, but he wasn't skilled enough as the arrow through his hand. The bandit screams in pain as the pain is unbearable and he falls to the ground with tears spilling out of his eyes. Soon, the bandits lunged at Claude all at once. Claude begins to shoot his arrows at the bandits. He took out 10 of them. Claude reached for an arrow, but he realized he had run out. "Oh fuck," Claude muttered under his breath as he makes a run to escape from the bandits. However, the bandits were relentless in their pursuit and cornered Claude. Seeing no way out, Claude realizes he has no choice, but to fight. Claude pulls his sword. "So umm...the offer to talk this out is still on the table," He chuckles nervously.
"Fuck you and your offer, you fucking barbarian!" One of the bandits sneered. "Your kind should be exterminated!"
Claude glares at the bandit. "Hey, I would watch that tongue if I were you!"
The bandit smirked. "Oh, I touched a nerve, didn't I? Can't handle the truth?"
Claude takes a deep breath to calm himself. "I got to say, having that much hate in your heart is miserable. Geez, no wonder why you're a bandit."
"I cut off that tongue of yours!" The bandit shouted. He leaped towards Claude and brought his spiked club down on Claude. Claude blocks the attacks and kicks the bandit away. Claude was about to attack, but two bandits suddenly appeared in front of him and launched a flurry of swings and blows with their weapons. Claude narrowly dodges the attacks. He tries to find an opening during the onslaught, but to his unfortunately, the two bandits are well-coordinated with their attacks and they seem to be trained. 'Hmm, these bandits know their way around combat. I know to find a way out of this bind and make my escape.' Claude thought as he continued to dodge the bandits. The bandit with the spiked club sneaked up behind Claude and landed a swing at his side. A sickening crunch was heard and Claude's eyes shot up as he screamed in pain before the two bandits both kick him in the stomach. Claude flew to the ground. Claude groans in pain and he tries to sit up before the bandits force him back down.
The bandit raised his spiked club. "Any last words you barbarian?"
Before Claude could say anything, Jay-Jay came to his rescue as the Supreme Warrior jumped in the air and landed a flying kick to the bandit's face. The bandit flew to a tree. Jay-Jay landed on His back as He swept one of the bandits and punched her in the face. Knocking her out cold. The bandit thrust his lance into Jay-Jay's chest. Jay-Jay kips Himself, dodging the attack. Jay-Jay countered with a Superman punch, sending the bandit to the ground. Dazed, the bandit tries to get up, but she was forced back down as her bearings is all over the place.
Jay-Jay extends His hand to help Claude.
Claude happily accepts and Jay-Jay pulls him up.
"Appreciate You for coming to my rescue," Claude said, his tone filled with gratitude.
"Don't mention it," Jay-Jay smiled before He ducked under the bandit blow.
"You will pay dearly for that, You glorified model of a fighter!" The bandit shouted in rage as he swung his spiked club wildly, hoping to land a hit on Jay-Jay. Jay-Jay effortlessly dodges the onslaught. "Stop dodging and fight me like a damn man!"
Jay-Jay stops the onslaught with His pinky. Shocking the bandit and Claude. "Say less," With that, Jay-Jay sends a mean knee to the jaw, the bandit flew in the air and landed on the ground, unconscious.
Seeing that they are losing the battle as his comrades lay on the ground out cold, the bandit calls out to his wife who is engaging with Dimitri with fierce blows while Dimitri is on the defensive not to hurt her. "Honey, run! We are no match against them!"
"Not a chance!" The bandit's wife shouted back as she jumped back to catch a breather. "I'm not leaving you behind to deal with them beside yourself! When I took my vows with you, I meant every single word of it!" The bandit's wife lunged at Dimitri and swung her axe with ferocity and speed. Hoping to overwhelm the Prince with her speed.
Dimitri wasn't phased by it and continued to block her attacks. "I advise you to listen to your husband. We don't need to fight,"
"Shut up!" The bandit's wife snarled, narrowing her eyes at Dimitri and continuing her onslaught. "I don't need anyone's pity! Especially yours because you are a Prince who grew up with a silver spoon in their life! You don't know what suffering is!"
Dimitri's anger flares at her comment as he grabs her axe and snaps it into two with one hand. Shocking the bandit's wife as she tries to go for her dagger, but Dimitri trips her with her spear and he points his spear at her face. "You don't the horrors I've seen in this world. Don't assume just because I'm a prince I don't know the horrors of this world!"
The bandit's wife gulped in fear as she saw the mad look in his eyes.
"Honey!" The bandit called out, he got up, but he was kicked back down as he felt a sword pressed to his neck.
"It's wise to stay down," Byleth said coldly, giving a menacing glare to the bandit. "All your allies have been defeated."
The bandit wanted to retaliate, but sadly, he couldn't as Dimitri broke his dominant arm. "Tch, we surrender,"
"A wise decision," Byleth said, taking her sword off his neck and sheathing it.
"Well, that was unexpected," Claude said, scanning over the forest and seeing defeated bandits all around.
"The good thing is that we're all alive," Edelgard said with a small smile.
Dimitri's gaze shifted to Jay-Jay. "Thanks for Your help, I don't know if we would've made it if You didn't get involved."
"No need to thank Me," Jay-Jay said with a dismissive wave. "I'm just doing what any decent would've done."
"So not only You can fight but You're humble as well?" Claude smiled. "I'm starting to like You."
"Speaking of fighting, Jay-Jay, what kind of fighting style did You use?" Byleth asked. "I never seen anything like it."
"I use Taekwondo and Muay Thai," Jay-Jay answered.
"Hmm, You're not from here are You?" Edelgard questioned, her eyes narrowed at Him. "Because I never heard of them before."
"Yes, I'm not from here," Jay-Jay said.
"Should've figured that because no offense, but I never seen someone with lips big as Yours," Claude pointed out.
'The lips just make Him more attractive,' Edelgard thought.
"None taken, I know these lands don't have people like Me here," Jay-Jay said.
Before anyone could question Him further, Jeralt catches up to the group.
He asses the situation and is surprised to see all the bandits lay on the ground, out cold. "Huh, impressive kids, seems like you all are great fighters,"
"We appreciate the praise, but He did most of the work," Dimitri said, gesturing to Jay-Jay.
"Y'all fought well too," Jay-Jay praised with a smile.
"Oh? And who You might be?" Jeralt questioned, furrowing a brow at Jay-Jay.
"My name is Jayvon Jayson," Jay-Jay introduced Himself. "But most people call me Jay-Jay."
Jeralt scans Jay-Jay and he notes how unique Jay-Jay's appearance. "You're not from here, are You?"
Jay-Jay shook His head. "No, I'm not,"
Before Jeralt could question Jay-Jay further, they heard more footsteps approaching and they saw the Knight of Seiros were here to help Claude, Dimitri, and Edelgard.
"The Knights of Seiros are here! We cut you down for terrorizing our students!" Alois declared.
The group looked at each other, surprised by the sudden appearance of the Knights of Seiros. Claude took a step forward, raising his hands in a peaceful gesture. "Hold on, hold on! The situation has been taken care of, so please put the weapons away!"
Alois is taken back by all the defeated bandits that lay on the ground.
"What happened here?" Alois questioned.
"We run into Jeralt and Byleth," Edelgard answered, pointing to Jeralt and Byleth. "However, they call for reinforcements and we run into Him." Edelgard jerked her thum to Jay-Jay. "He helped us defeat the reinforcement and he saved me and Byleth's life."
Alois looks over at Jay-Jay, his eyes lingering on His unusual attire and demeanor. After a moment, he nods, his grip loosening slightly. "Very well. Thanks for Your assistance, Jay-Jay."
Jay-Jay flashed him a gentle smile. "Don't mention it,"
"Ugh, why him?" Jeralt groaned as he recognized Alois.
"Captain Jeralt?! Oh, it is you!" Alois happily said. "Don't you recognize me?! It your old right-hand man!"
Jeralt rolled his eyes at the enthusiasm but nodded. "Alois. Of course, I know you. It's been a while."
"Oh, it must've been 20 years ago that you went missing without a trace. I always knew you were still alive!" Alois pointed out.
Jeralt nodded. "Yeah, well, I had my reasons," he replied, his voice hinting at a past filled with untold stories. "And drop that captain nonsense, I am not your captain anymore! These days, I'm just a wandering mercenary. One who has work to do. Goodbye old friend."
"Right...Good-bye, Captain," Alois nods. "Wait! That isn't how this ends, I insist that you return to the monastery with me!"
Garreg Mach Monastery...I suppose this was inevitable," Jeralth sighed.
Alois shifts his gaze to Byleth. "Ah, are you the Captain child?"
Byleth nods.
"Indeed, I am," Byleth confirms, watching the newcomers with a mix of curiosity and skepticism.
"Ah, you didn't tell me you had a child, Jeralt!" Alois said.
"There's a good reason for it," Jeralt
"I'm sure there is," Alois said. "But let's save that for another time. We have a mission to discuss."
Byleth, Claude, Dimitri, Jay-Jay, and Edelgard were alone.
"I appreciate your help back there. Your skill is beyond question," Edelgard smiled at Byleth. "You're clearly an experienced mercenary. And your father...that would be Jeralt, the Blade Breaker?"
Byleth nodded, a hint of pride in her eyes. "Yes, he's taught me everything I know," she replied.
Edelgard turns her attention to Jay-Jay. "And I have to say, You were most impressive out there. I never seen someone take on multiple armed bandits unarmed and come out unscathed."
Dimitri nods in agreement. "Indeed, it was the most impressive, You would be a valuable ally to the Knights of Seiros,"
"You sure You're just a healer?" Claude questioned. "Most healers can't fight like You can."
"I'm a Person of many talents," Jay-Jay answered. "I'm capable of taking on multiple roles if needed."
Edelgard's eyes lit up in curiosity. "So You're a versatile as well? No wonder why You're a solo healer. You be a great addition to the academy."
"Would You be interested in joining us Jay-Jay?" Dimitri questioned. "You be a great addition to the Blue Lions."
"I say that You will fit in more with the Golden Deer," Claude said with a wink. "I mean, You do have more of a mellow vibe going on."
Edelgard rolled her eyes. "If you ask me, You be at home at the Black Eagles, we all about growth at my house."
Jay-Jay chuckles at the three antics. "Sure, I join y'all journey, but as for the houses offer, I think it over as I'm a freelance kind of Guy,"
Dimitri nods in understanding. "Take all the time You need to think over. Just know that You be welcome in the Blue Lions,"
"I'm curious, what are the necklaces around Your neck?" Byleth questioned, her gaze on Jay-Jay's neck. "I feel great power coming from the necklaces."
"Oh, these are swords," Jay-Jay answered casually.
The four eyes' widened in shock.
"Swords?" Edelgard repeated.
"Umm...those are necklaces," Claude pointed out, confused by Jay-Jay's answer.
Jay-Jay took off the black necklace and it transformed into a colossal broadsword.
This shocked everyone further as they unconsciously took a step back as they felt the sword's power.
"I...impressive," Dimitri stuttered, amazed at the sword's power.
"Its name is Hellbringer," Jay-Jay introduced the sword.
"I have to say, that's a big sword," Edelgard said, her gaze never leaving the sword. "How do You wield that thing in combat?"
"Strength," Jay-Jay said.
"A badass name for a badass sword," Claude said, his tone filled with awe. "May I hold it?"
"I don't think that's a good idea, Claude," Byleth warned.
"Relax, it's not like I'm going to use that huge thing in battle because I'm well aware of my limitations," Claude assured her.
Jay-Jay stabs Hellbringer into the ground.
Claude approaches Hellbringer, grabs it, and tries to lift it. However, the sword is very heavy as it isn't bulging.
"Oh wow, this sword is way heavier than I expected it to be," Claude said, stepping away from Hellbringer. 'Wow, there goes my plan to use the sword to help unify Fodlan.'
"Hmm, I doubt the sword is that heavy," Edelgard said. "You've probably just been slacking on your training."
Claude shoots her a mischievous grin. "Oh really? Well, how about you tried your Highness?"
Edelgard rolled her eyes. Nonetheless, she stepped up to the challenge and to rub salt in the wound, she decided to use one hand to lift it. However, she was surprised to say Hellbringer not bulging. Edelgard decides to use two hands to lift it but to no avail.
After a while, Edelgard steps away. Panting heavily her hands red from the strain.
"Not easy as it looks, huh?" Claude questioned with a smug smile.
"Shut it, Claude," Edelgard huffed.
"Well, I'm curious to see if it's really that heavy," Dimitri said before walking to Hellbringer and he tried to lift it. Same as the other two, Hellbringer ain't bulging. Dimitri tries a few more times before giving up. "Okay, they are heavy."
Byleth steps up to Hellbringer, her strategic mind racing with thoughts and questions about Hellbringer. She grabs Hellbringer and attempts to lift it up. However, the sword ain't bulging for her either. Seeing this, Byleth stops and takes a step back before looking at Jay-Jay. "You must be really strong to wield Hellbringer,"
"You have no idea," Jay-Jay said as He grabbed and easily lifted it with one hand. Hellbringer transforms back into a necklace and Jay-Jay wraps it around His neck.
The group looks at Jay-Jay with awe and curiosity, their minds racing with questions about Jay-Jay.
'You're certainly an interesting fellow, Jayvon,' Dimitri thought. 'Just what exactly are You?'
'Hmm, this is exciting,' Claude thought, looking at Jay-Jay with a grin. 'No doubt about it, He will definitely be a useful asset for my goals. Hopefully, He picks the Golden Deer house. We could definitely use someone like Him in Leicester Alliance.'
'I should keep a close eye on Him,' Edelgard thought. 'And get to know Him more and see what His beliefs are. I need to know if He will stand with me or against me.'
'No doubt about it, Jay-Jay isn't human,' Byleth thought, examining Jay-Jay's unique features. 'He otherworldly, I'm sure of it, but just exactly what is He?'
"Alright, that's enough with the small talk. Time to head back to the Monastery!" Alois said with a smile.
"Well, looks like we have to pick this another time," Claude said, winking at Byleth and Jay-Jay.
Claude, Edelgard, and Dimitri follows Alois.
Leaving Byleth and Jay-Jay alone.
"Those three sure are interesting," Jay-Jay said with a smile. "And they are eager for us to join one of their houses."
"They sure are," Byleth agreed. "They are all unique in their own way."
"You made your decision on joining the house?" Jay-Jay questioned.
Byleth shook her head. "I haven't, it's hard to choose. Not to mention, something is off about all of them,"
"Lemme guess, Edelgard is always evaluating, Dimitri seems sincere, but you sense there is darkness lurking beneath him, and Claude has a charming smile, but that same smile doesn't reach his eyes?" Jay-Jay guessed.
Byleth's eyes slightly widen. "How did you...?"
Jay-Jay lightly chuckles. "I have My ways, youngin,"
Byleth's eyes narrowed but she decided it ain't important enough to push it. "But yes, those are my exact thoughts. I decide I will get to know them more before I make my decision."
"A wise choice," Jay-Jay smiled.
"What about You? Are You still going to be a freelancer?" Byleth questioned.
Jay-Jay nods. "Yeah, I'm only going to keep an eye on them three. They have the power to either shape the future for the better or the worse and I have to make sure it is for the better."
Byleth nods. She is taking a lightly to Jay-Jay as He has a very warm spirit and He is genuine as she sees not a hint of deceit in His body language or His words.
"Now, let's go," Jay-Jay said as He followed Alois. "We don't want to get left behind."
Byleth nods before following Jay-Jay.
A couple of days passed.
The group made it back to the Monastery, they walked through the monastery.
Students and knights alike stopped what they were doing as they noticed Jay-Jay's presence. They saw that Jay-Jay had a unique appearance. Noticing the attention He getting, Jay-Jay flashed them a toothy grin.
Everyone's eyes widen once they see how sharp his teeth are -hell, that ain't teeth, Jay-Jay has a set of fangs.
While it is intimidating, the students and knights begin to whisper to themselves how the fangs just add to Jay-Jay's cuteness.
"Damn, Jay-Jay, You've barely been here for five minutes and You already attracting a lot of attention," Claude joked with a smile.
Jay-Jay chuckles. "Not My first rodeo and won't be My last,"
Dimitri raised a brow at this. "I take it that You're quite used to the attention?"
"I am, but it doesn't make it any less comfortable," Jay-Jay answered, shuddering at the way some of the people here are looking at Him like a piece of meat.
"If You want, I can get them in order," Edelgard offered.
"That won't be necessary," Jay-Jay rejected. "Besides, they can look, but they can't touch as My body is off limits. Well except for hugs as I'm always in a hugging mood."
The group laughed at Jay-Jay's joke even the emotionless Byleth couldn't help but crack a small smile at the wholesome energy Jay-Jay was radiating.
The group separated and Jeralt, Byleth, and Jay-Jay made it to the Church.
"It's been years since I've last set eyes on this place. To be forced to see her now..." Jeralt said, dreading at the fact he is going to see Rhea now.
Byleth turns to her father. "You've been here before?"
Jeralt breaks out of his thoughts and turns to his daughter. "I've never spoken of this to you before, but many years ago, I was a knight here. I've reported to the Archbishop...Lady Rhea."
"Lady Rhea?" Byleth said as she put her chin in her hand in thought.
"Well, she is the leader of the ridiculously large religious organization," Jeralt explained.
Jay-Jay's eyes narrowed at the mention of religion. "Ah, religion, it's a very-"
Jay-Jay was cut off by the sudden appearance of Seteth and Rhea.
"Thank you for your patience, Jeralt. My name is Seteth. I am an advisor to the archbishop," Seteth introduced himself.
"Right. Hello," Jeralt simply said.
"It has been a long time, Jeralt. I wonder...was it the will of the goddess that we have another chance to meet like this?" Rhea pondered with a smile.
"Forgive my silence. Much has happened since then," Jeralt said with a bow.
"So I see, the miracle of fatherhood has blessed you. That is your child, is it not?" Rhea questioned, her eyes landed on Byleth.
"Yes, born many years after I left this place. I wish I could introduce you to the mother of my child...I'm afraid we lost her to illness," Jeralt said, a hint of sadness in his voice.
"My condolences," Jay-Jay said
Rhea notices Jay-Jay's presence. "Ah, I didn't see You there. Is He a friend of yours, Jeralt?"
"More like an acquaintance," Jeralt answered. "We met Him when we ran into the three students that go here. Byleth and the three students all vouched for His combat prowess as they all claimed He took on multiple armed bandits bare-handed and won."
Seteth and Rhea's eyes widened in amazement as they couldn't believe what they heard.
"Is that so?" Rhea asked, eyeing Jay-Jay up and down and she liked what she saw. "And what is Your name?"
"The name Jayvon Jayson," Jay-Jay flashed her a sweet smile. "But most people called Me Jay-Jay."
Rhea's heart flattered at His smile as it was the most beautiful smile she ever seen. "I-I am L-lady Rhea, but as for You, I'm anything You want me to be."
Jeralt, Byleth, and Seteth are shocked by the change of attitude while Jay-Jay's eyes widen in horror as another one of His children has fallen for His charm.
Seteth coughs into his throat, to clear the awkward tension in the air. "Anyway, Jay-Jay, from Your attire and Your looks I assume You are not from these lands."
Jay-Jay shook His head. "I'm not,"
"Well, would You mind telling us what land You hail from?" Seteth asked, his curiosity piqued.
"Hmm, to be honest, I don't come from no land," Jay-Jay answered like it was the most normal thing in the world.
Jay-Jay is met with silence as everyone is confused.
"Umm...what do You mean by that?" Byleth questioned, confusion etched into her face.
"It means I have always existed," Jay-Jay answered. "So by default, I don't come from no land as I have always existed and will continue to do so."
The room went silent as everyone tried to process His word and the implications of His existence. Feeling themselves slowly going insane trying to make sense of His existence, they decided to drop the topic.
"Moving on," Rhea said, her eye twitching. "What is hairstyle is that? I never seen anything like it."
"Oh this is two stitch braids," Jay-Jay said, fiddling with His hair.
"Well, I like it," Rhea smiled. "It suits Your cute face."
"Thanks," Jay-Jay thanked with a cute smile causing Rhea to squeal.
Jeralt is utterly dumbfounded by the scene. For all the years he has known Rhea, he has never seen her so...emotional. 'Wow, this has definitely taken an unexpected turn. This is surreal.'
"Changing topics, what brings You here, Jay-Jay?" Seteth questioned, curious about His intentions.
"I intend to aspire to peace and harmony here," Jay-Jay answered honestly. "The young generation needs guidance more than ever and I will be happy to be their guide."
Seteth nods. "Noble intentions indeed, but what are Your motivations for doing this?"
"I just want a better for My children," Jay-Jay said with a warm smile. "They don't deserve to be in a world filled with hate and prejudices."
Seteth cracked a small smile as he understood Jay-Jay's intentions given that he is a father himself. "I see, well, I think me and You are going to get along quite well, Jayvon,"
Jay-Jay nods. "Likewise, Seteth,"
"From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for saving those students of the Officiers' Academy," Rhea thanked with a warm smile.
"No need to thank Me," Jay-Jay said. "I'm just doing what any decent would've done."
Rhea's smile widens at Jay-Jay. "No need to be so humble Jay-Jay, You did a wonderful thing, own it,"
"Hey, just speaking the truth," Jay-Jay said.
Jeralt studies Rhea's interaction with Jay-Jay and he feels put off about it as he has never seen Rhea this relaxed with someone. 'Hmm, this Jay-Jay fellow is going to be a huge problem for the continent, I just know it. Well, at least He seems to be a genuine guy.'
Byleth looks at Jay-Jay, her mind still trying to comprehend His existence. 'He always existed and will continue to do so? What does that even mean?'
Rhea turns to Jeralt. "Jeralt, you already what I wished to, do you not?"
"You want me to rejoin the Knights of Seiros, don't you? I won't say no, but..." Jeralt trailed off.
"Your apprehension stings. I had expected that Alois would have already asked this of you," Rhea shook her head. "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." Rhea and Seteth took their leave. Rhea's eyes lingers on Jay-Jay for a little longer before winking at Him.
"Well, that was...interesting," Jeralt said, he turned to face Jay-Jay. "She took a liking to You."
Jay-Jay shudders. "Don't remind Me,"
Jeralt groans. "I never thought I would've been dragged back to the Knight of Seiros," Jeralt's gaze shifted to his daughter. "Sorry, I bought you into this. Looks like I'm going to be stuck here for a while and your services might be requested as well."
'I must...work here?' Byleth questioned herself, this would be a new experience for her as she has been sheltered from the world. "What kind of work?"
"As a professor, I believe," Jeralth answered. "Apparently, Alois run his mouth to Rhea about you two and recommend you two be the professors."
Jay-Jay raised His brow at this. "A professor? Well, I do love guiding people on the right path."
"So you two must be the new professors," Manuela said as she and Hannerman suddenly appeared in front of them. Manuela's eyes landed on Jay-Jay and she likes what she sees. "My, You're cute and handsome! I know the female students are going to struggle to focus on their with You as their professor."
Jay-Jay sweat drops at this as another one of His children is hitting. 'Yeah, I will never get used to this.' "Pleasure to make y'all acquaintance. My name is Jayvon Jayson,"
"Name Manuela Casagranda," Manuela purred, looking at Jay-Jay like a piece of meat. "We should grab a bite to eat sometime."
"I look forward to it," Jay-Jay flashes her a warm smile.
Manuela's heart swell as the innocence that Jay-Jay is radiating is too damn cute.
Hanneman clears his throat. "Please excuse her, Jay-Jay. She doesn't know how to act as I guess she wasn't taught with any manners."
Manuela gasps in offense. "Please excuse him, Jay-Jay. He going senile in his old age."
After that comment, the two begin to bicker like an old married.
The three sweatdrops at the scene.
"Well, that's my cue to leave. Good luck you two," Jeralt said before he turned to leave. "Also, watch out for Rhea," Jeralt warned in a whisper. "I don't know what she planned, but making you the professor is telling me she is up to something." His gaze turns to Jay-Jay. "You watch Your back as well. It's clear that she took a liking to You, too much of a liking if you ask me as I've never seen her act like that. So stay on your guard."
Byleth nods.
"Duly noted," Jay-Jay said, chuckling at His coworkers arguing like a married couple.
Jeralt nods before walking off.
Jay-Jay clears His throat, catching the two attention as the two stop arguing. "As funny it is to watch you two argue like an old married couple, let's get back on track, shall we?"
"We're not an old married couple!" Hanneman corrected. "She just irks me!"
"Well, the feeling is mutual!" Manuela spat, venom laced in her tone.
Sensing another argument about to start, Jay-Jay softly but firmly says: "We're all adults here and professors here. So please, can we act like it? We're setting an example for the children here."
Manuela and Hanneman were silenced as they looked embarrassed by their unprofessional behavior in front of their new coworkers.
"Professional and serious? My, You're turning out to be a catch, Jayvon~," Manuela said in a seductive purr.
Hanneman facepalms, Byleth is confused at what going on, and Jay-Jay is put off by this.
"Manuela, please refrain from flirting with Me," Jay-Jay said. "As I would like to have a strictly professional relationship with you."
Manuela frowns. "Fine, all the good men never seem to be interested in me..."
Hearing the sadness in her voice, Jay-Jay decides to cheer her up. "Don't be like that, you're a beautiful woman, Manuela. You're just using your charm on the wrong men."
Manuela went quiet as she has to process what He said.
"Well, I never thought I see the day that someone shocked her into silence," Hanneman said with a light chuckle. "Anyway, I haven't introduce myself. I'm Hanneman, a Crest scholar and as you two know it, a professor at the Officers' Academy. I wonder if you two bear a Crest of your own. If any of you have a moment to spare, I insist you two pay me a visit so we can delve into the subject further."
"I don't have a crest," Jay-Jay said. "But I do know a lot about them, so I'm always up to discuss them with you."
Hanneman's face lights up at that. "Splendid! I know we will have much to discuss!"
Jay-Jay nods. "That we will."
"Now then, it seems you two will be taking charge of the academy's three houses," Hanneman said, changing the topic. "I expect you two haven't yet briefed on the nature have you?"
"No, we haven't," Byleth said as she shook her head.
"Well, allow me to explain," Manuela perked up with renewed vigor as Jay-Jay's words got through to her. "The Officiers' Academy is comprised of three houses of students, each of which is closely affiliated with its region of origin..."
Byleth listens intently while Jay-Jay tunes out the convo as He already knows the answer to it.
'My retirement is close,' Jay-Jay thought with a small smile as He looked out the window, admiring His creation. After all the adventures He has been on, the battles He fought, the teams He led, and the connections He made...it's certainly been one of a hell ride for Him and it's finally coming to an end. But for now, there are still omniverses out there that need His help and guidance more than ever.
"Jay-Jay, You're still with us?" Manuela called out.
Jay-Jay broke out of His thoughts and turned to look at her. "Yeah, I am. Just reflecting on My life,"
"Well, it must've been a pleasant life given the smile on Your face," Byleth said in a deadpan tone.
Jay-Jay lightly chuckles. "You could say it was for the most part and I don't regret a single second of it. But all the suffering I've seen people go through broke My heart and I fought My hardest to make a bright future for everyone,"
Hanneman, Byleth, and Manuela are taken aback by Jay-Jay's sudden conviction, but Hanneman and Manuela smile at Him while Byleth has a hint of admiration in her eyes.
"Well, I suggest you two should take a stroll around the academy to get your bearings and to get to know the place," Hanneman suggested. "And when You have a moment, please stop by my research laboratory."
"Will do," Jay-Jay smiled.
"And I suggest You two try spending time with the students. Some odd ducks in their bunch, but they're good kids," Manuela suggested. "I'm sure Lady Rhea will have more information for you two tomorrow, but for now, the little pieces of information should help you two. Good luck, you two will need it."
Byleth and Jay-Jay both nodded and they went their separate ways to get to know the place and students more.
"I don't think this is a good idea, Rhea," Seteth said with an exasperated sigh. "Appointing two strangers-one of them a child no less while the other one has no records of Him existing-a professors at our esteemed academy is-"
"I have made my decision, Seteth," Rhea firmly said. "I know worrying is a part of your nature, but there is no need to worry. Byleth is Jeralt's flesh and blood after all. While Jay-Jay...well, something is off about Him."
Seteth furrowed a brow at Rhea. "What do you mean?"
"I'm sure you feel too," Rhea said. "The attire and His appearance all tell us that He isn't from these lands or this world for that matter."
"And He did say He always existed and will continue to do so," Seteth said as he stroked his chin in thought. "Something tells me that we should keep an eye on Him."
"That's why I hired Him as a professor here," Rhea said with a smile. "We don't know of His true intentions and He is hiding something big. We can't let a person like that wander around freely without making sure He is friend or foe."
"Understandable," Seteth nods in agreement. "What worries me the most about Him having no official records of Him anywhere? I mean it's like He popped out of thin air."
"And the story of Him taking on multiple arm's bandits while barehanded suggests that He isn't entirely human," Rhea added. "Those eyes of His, it's unlike anything I've seen before."
Seteth sighed as this situation just got more complicated. "Then we should definitely keep a close on this Jayvon character. We have Flayn here with us now and I don't want to take any unnecessary risks."
"I understand, but trust me on this, Seteth. I know what I'm doing," Rhea assured him. "And Jay-Jay does seem genuine as there are no signs of deceit in His eyes."
"For now, I will have faith that you have a plan regarding this Jay-Jay individual," Seteth said. "I pray nothing that shakes my confidence in you."
It has barely been a day and Jay-Jay has already shaken the foundation of Garegg Mach as His unique appearance is raising questions and turning heads. But this is only the beginning as they will soon find out that Jay-Jay is the Creator Himself.