Chapter One
A Stranger Comes
Disclaimer: I don't own Fire Emblem: Three Houses, it belonged to Intelligent Systems, Koei Tecmo and Nintendo.
"The monastery is on the horizon, we'll be arriving shortly."
"Sweet, thank ye for giving me a ride."
"It's fine, we were going in the same direction anyway. And what better place to sell my wares, am I right?"
"Incense and candles to the largest monastery of the Goddess's faithful aye? A ludicrous business you have here good sir."
"The best in Fodlan I assure you. And some of it is a donation to the church, so it's a win-win situation."
"Hmmm, incense instead of gold? That is good work if I've ever seen one friend."
"Don't I know it. So I take it you're a pilgrim?"
"Nothing so fancy, just a merchant wanting to sell his wares just like you."
"Really? Didn't see any goods on you, you offered something else to Garreg Mach?"
"I do, but I wish to speak first to the local authorities before conducting my business. Mine is… not to say that it's illegal or anything, but their implication is morally dubious to some… let's say the more privileged members of society."
"Nobles huh? Must be something that grates on their nerves if you're that wary of them. I take it it has something to do with what they can't get easily or if it goes against their code?"
"Let's just say I am willing to offer services for a price. Either it's for clean or dirty work, I am willing to offer it."
"Let me guess, something to do with hiring people?"
"Their contracts actually, I have some contacts, and I am willing to be their intermediary to potential clients. But it's still undecided whether I can operate here. That is up for the church to consider."
"Any plans if things didn't go well here?"
"Then I simply head to the Alliance territory. Heard some nobles there are on good terms with hired work since they're bordering the hostile Almyrans. Could prove to be good business."
"Well, best of luck to you friend."
"I thank ye."
-A few hours later-
"Well, here we are. I'll be taking my wares to the monastery proper. You want to join me for a ride there too?"
"No thank ye, need to stretch my legs after cooped up on your carriage for so long."
"Now that reminds me, where's that boy of yours? I don't hear so much as a peep of him", a boy rose from a bed of coats. Slightly dazed from his recent slumber, only awake since his name was mentioned.
"Oh you mean Phil? Tis not my lad, good sir. You see, this boy was an unfortunate soul I met on my journey. Didn't have anywhere else to go, so I took him in as my assistant. Been with me ever since", the boy silently yawned, before he jumped out from the carriage. A single wooden peg attached to his missing right foot.
"Hrmm, still can't fathom the reason why anyone wanted to do that to such a wee lad. But I guess he has you now, don't he? Hope you've dealt him good aye?", the boy just silently nodded.
"Paid him in gold for all the good work he did. Least I could do for the lad", the merchant patted the young lad's head. Messing with his unkempt hair.
"The lad might need some work with his hair though. I know a good barber in the market town, go look for the one called Morrow, he can give a quick job for the lad."
"I'll keep that in mind, I'll be out of yours then", the coachman drove his steed forward. Leaving the stranger and the boy on their lonesome.
"So, you want to take his offer and find this barber?", the boy nodded. Before his stomach growled like a beast.
"Heh, after lunch of course. Don't worry lad, we have all the time we need. Don't you worry about silly old me, we can take it easy since we've been through that long journey", the boy nodded, before hefting a rucksack to his shoulders.
"You sure you don't want me to carry that ledger? That thing is at least a quarter of your weight", the boy shook his head. The man sighed before carrying his own baggage with him.
"Suit yourself then lad. After lunch and a session with a barber, if time allows, we'll meet with the monastery authority. Meanwhile I want you to find us a good place to stay, aye?", the boy nodded. The stranger simply chuckled and ruffled the boy's hair again, much to his chagrin.
-Dusk-
"Welcome to the monastery, how can I help you?"
"I am somewhat of a merchant here, good sir. I meant to peddle my wares in the market square down on the pilgrim district", the young guard rubbed his exposed chin in contemplation.
"Hmmm, merchants usually peddle their wares without needing the church's permission though. Any reason why you would need to ask the church?"
"My services are of dubious nature, my good friend, according to the nobles that is. I wanted to make sure whether or not I'm allowed to offer my services here in the first place, if I may be allowed to meet with anyone."
"Of course. Although I don't know anyone that manages such matters, I'm sure if you ask any staff they can point you in the right direction."
"I thank ye my good man", the stranger walks through the large arch into the monastery proper, an auspicious hallway greeted him with staff members and students mingling in. A quick cursory glance revealed a single faculty member possessing forest green hair went through the hall with a confident stride.
"Excuse me, may I have a moment of your time?"
"Yes, what is it?"
"If you would, can you direct me to the office that takes care of the dealings in the monastery? I am a new merchant here you see, but my products may require the written consent of the church for me to operate on it's grounds", the man scratched his small green scruff.
"As you would have it, I happen to be the Grand Chamberlain of the monastery. Although I am surprised to see a merchant of all people to request express permission from the church."
"There's nothing illegal about my dealings, I can assure you good sir. It's just that some folks may see my service as somewhat unsavory."
"I'll be the judge of that. Come with me, I shall comply with your request personally."
"I thank ye grand chamberlain", the two walked through the halls before ascending to the second floor. Entering a particular room that may be the personal office of the grand chamberlain of Garreg Mach.
"Let's begin with an introduction, I am Seteth. Grand chamberlain of Garreg Mach monastery and the acting Headmaster of the Officers Academy. It's a pleasure."
"The pleasure is all mine, good chamberlain. I am known as Fred. A wandering merchant of foreign origin."
"Oh? A foreigner here at the heart of Fodlan? Might I know which country you come from?"
"I came from a distant land across the great sea to the southeast, from a small town called Bleak, good sir. Although it's more or less the boondocks that are isolated from the rest of the world, I only knew Fodlan through my travels to Brigid and Morfis. Heard there are opportunities here so I choose to take it", Seteth jotted down several notes to a blank paper.
"I see, so what exactly is this business of yours that requires express permission of the church?"
"In essence, mercenary work good sir."
"A mercenary? And you are offering your services to whom?"
"No, not me per say. I am the one who has contacts with many who are renowned to offer their service for a fee. Essentially a glorified middle man. I am a well connected person and for the right price, I can arrange a contract between my associates and any potential clients that are interested in hiring them."
"Hmmm, and pray do tell why would that be an issue for you to operate here on the monastery? Make no mistake, I appreciate your effort to contact the church first for the matter, but you wouldn't be the first to offer private service here on church's ground. Just a few weeks ago a wandering band of sellswords were offering their service here. What necessitates you to request express permission from us?"
"Two reasons actually, first; I am a foreigner who recently just entered this land. Thus I barely have any connection to the people of this continent, and the last thing I want to do is to break any laws unintentionally. I often find it best to ask the local authorities for this matter, in this case the Church of the Goddess, not to mention at this point most of my contacts are of foreign origin. I am still unsure how your people reacted to foreigners you see", Seteth nodded.
"Secondly, although it's still undecided, I have plans to operate for a long period of time in Fodlan in the foreseeable future. Since the monastery happened to be at the center of the continent, I find it wise to ask first if I am allowed temporary residency here. I am planning to pay in full I assure you, but it's best for me to ask first before taking any actions", Seteth nods, before he pulls out a parchment and writes it.
"I applaud your initiative to contact us and your willingness to consider the law of a foreign country sir Fred, although the monastery cannot offer you any residency, we can help facilitate the necessary paperwork to admit you as a foreign merchant. Hopefully that would be enough to start opening doors for your business."
"Thank ye, thank ye. I take residency on this ground, require a working status for the church aye?"
"Quite so. Only workers, servants, faculty members, guards and knights of both the academy and the monastery are allowed residency. Fret not however, the castle town just below does not require any residency for both pilgrims and merchants alike. You're free to conduct your business there, barring that there is nothing illegal in your dealings of course", Seteth gave a small ledger to the man.
"This is a quick summary of laws in Fodlan. It didn't cover everything per se, but it's brief enough for foreigners that traveled to this land. The rest are pertained to either locals, pilgrims, clergy and nobles barring exceptional circumstances of course", the stranger gave a quick nod before he stood.
"I thank you for the opportunity, grand chamberlain. If you ever require my service, I'll be available at the castle town", the stranger offered his hand.
"I'll keep that in mind. Welcome to Fodlan Mr. Fred", the chamberlain returned the gesture. Thus the first deal was struck. Spoken with words and sealed with a ledger of laws.
-Weeks later-
"Two fresh white trout please."
"Coming right up! Oh, here alone today Fred? Where the little fella?"
"Shop duty, the lad is still cleaning the place up."
"That poor boy, you aren't working him to the bones I hope?"
"That boy would have done it himself if I didn't ma'am. I have to tell him to sit by the shop just to make sure he doesn't work himself to fainting."
"Goodness that boy. He should've played with the kids at the square, there's no shortage of children looking for friends in the monastery. The lad reminds me too much of Cyril."
"Cyril? Is he an orphan I presume?"
"Refugees actually. He came from Almyra before lady Rhea took him in, by the time he reached adulthood he started working himself hard everyday in the monastery."
"Sounds a lot like my lad, honestly what is with orphans and growing up too quickly? I would've preferred if the lad played with the other kids too you know? Even with his shortcomings, I'm sure the lads and lass of the monastery can understand."
"That is true, most of them are either faculty children or orphans from across Fodlan. I'm sure they would be good friends with the boy."
"One can only hope ma'am. I'll be sure to throw him out to play one of these days."
"Tell him to visit me too when you do, yes? My granddaughter would love to play with him."
"Playing matchmaking so early ma'am?"
"Bah! She's just a child. leave that matter for when they actually grew up."
"If you say so", Fred left the market and headed into town proper. To one of the recently refurbished buildings with a brand new sign above it's door: "Fred Works and Knicks-Knacks", nailed on the door he turned a pail from the word closed to open. Unaware of the three shadows that had followed him from the market.
"I'm home, you done with the cleaning?", the boy waved his hand from the counter, the large open room was clean and spotless. Display tables and racks that are still empty, decorating the atrium and the walls of the shop.
"Good lad, here's the grocery for today. Take it to the pantry for me", the boy nodded before trotting to the man and taking his grocery from him.
"Easy lad, there's a couple of white trout in there. Be sure to clean them first before you store them aye?", the boy nodded before he headed to the backroom. The man sighed before he went to the counter, sat and opened a ledger the size of his torso.
Just then, the newly installed bell on the shop's door jingled. Alerting the man of his potential customer. Or customers in this case. Judging by their uniform they seem to be academy students.
"Welcome to Fred's. If you're looking for hired work or some knick-knacks I got you covered! Er, in a few weeks I mean. My shipment wouldn't arrive until two weeks from now unfortunately", the man sheepishly rubbed his scalp as the three students approached the counter.
"Greetings sir, we are students of the Officers Academy. I am Dimitri Alexander Blaiddyd, and these are my company:", he gestured to the other two.
"Edelgard von Hresvelg, a pleasure", the white haired girl added.
"The name's Claude von Riegan, nice to meet you!", he flicks a charming smile.
"A pleasure meeting you three, I'm afraid I don't have refreshments to offer for such an occasion. So why don't we go straight to business, is there anything I can do for you three?"
"Very well, we heard from the grand chamberlain that you offered services in which among them were sellswords, yes?"
"Yes, I have several contacts that could offer such work. Might I know the reason why you're asking?"
"The academy year is in its full swing. And the new professor is planning for a quick outing outside the monastery grounds. Heard we were going to one of the villages surrounding the monastery proper", Claude helpfully added.
"I see, so you wanted protection?"
"Reassurance and insurance is more like it. While the knights of Seiros are said to assist with this little project, a sudden mission requires their attention elsewhere. A contingent is due to return on the day of the trip, but the chamberlain recommended us to take some extra measures and hire a few mercenaries just for the first day", Edelgard elaborated as Fred nodded, he started flipping through his ledger.
"So you would need some protection for a few days if not only for one, are there any other requirements that are given by the academy?"
"Nothing so formal, the academy is surprisingly pretty lax when it comes to hired work. Moreover, the grand chamberlain has censured you himself, I'm sure his recommendation should warrant at least some recognition no?"
"Though if you could, can you find some people that have experience escorting people? Heck even if they only had some experience escorting a trade caravan that would be plenty enough. Despite being students, we're pretty well trained, you know?", Claude added to Dimitri's comment as he shook his head.
"And when are these outings scheduled to occur?"
"A week from now, forgive us for the sudden news. But the mission for the Knights of Seiros just arrived yesterday, we barely have enough time to prepare for the trip as it is", Fred jotted down to a list, before he ripped the paper.
"I've got just the folks for you. Here is a quick list of available contracts I can offer."
"Why are there two column of lists on the paper?", the lady asked.
"The first column are the more immediate and local mercenaries that are available, of course, they had some experience and rapport of bodyguard and escort jobs. There are plenty more, but these are the ones available at the current moment", Edelgard traces her finger on the list. Listing some unknown to slightly renowned companies that are often native or close to Fodlan; The Roadmen, Berling Mercenaries, Almyran Band, Leicester Rangers, etc.
"And the second one?"
"An extensive list of foreign mercenaries that have the rapport and reputation as escorts, and could arrive here in time for the outing. Keep in mind that these are foreigners that may speak different tongues, so don't expect them to socialize much. However, I can guarantee their reputation and professionalism", her finger traces the list of names, which unlike the first, comprise only of three names.
Malcolm Galloglass Band, Burkhard Landsknechts, and Hrafn Varangian Guards.
"Do forgive me, most of my contacts would take months to travel here to Fodlan. These are the ones I am confident could arrive within the timeframe."
"Huh, a bit familiar with a few of the locals, but I sure never heard of these foreign ones. I expect something more like Brigid Band or Morfis Sorcerers or something. Mind filling us in on what their deal is?"
"Well, you would have to ask for each of them, I'm afraid. These folks came from all walks of life, from distant lands too I might add. Each of them had stories of their own. And I'm afraid, their history is for them only to tell."
"Then give us a brief summary of what these mercenaries are. It would not do for us to not know the men we employ to our service."
"Very well, milady. Which one would you like to know?"
"Let's start from the top. How do you spell this one? Ga-lo-glass?"
"Ah the Galloglass, these are the renowned warriors of the distant land of Gael. These fine men were descendants of adventurers that married the locals. Bearing the adventuring blood of their forefathers and the renowned steel of their motherland, the Galloglass often operated near their territory, offering their services to the local lords as experienced and well-disciplined soldiers".
"Sounds fascinating. Do these warriors have anointed knights among them?"
"Some of them do sir Dimitri, but most are men that picked up the sword of their fathers and decided to adventure as a band with their fellows. Some of the best hired men you can get from the isles."
"What of these Burkhard Landsk-chit? Wait, how do you pronounce this one?"
"Ah, the Landsknecht, warriors hailing from a fractious realm. These men are professional soldiers that took a life of soldiering once, and have walked it ever since. These people are once drafted folks before taking the life of a professional soldier. Often banding into organized companies and traveling from towns to cities for job opportunities, which are plentiful in their homeland. This band in particular are led by a veteran himself."
"And I take, these Varangian Guards are being led by a guy named Hra-fen? Hra-fd?"
"Hrafn, yes. The Varangian Guards are mercenaries hailing from the distant land of Scandinavia. The petty kingdoms and tribes dotting the land are rife with hardy and adventurous folk. Often sailing across oceans in search of riches and fame. This particular band once ended up at the service of a foreign empire, rising in ranks to become the ruler's personal guard. Due to their nature as foreigners, they serve as the perfect protection for the ruling family, since they are immune to politics and inner courtly schemes, they served loyally to the emperor, to the death even. Their reputation alone is a deterrent to political assassinations. Those who returned to their homeland bearing foreign armor and arms, became known as Varangians", Edelgard showed a difficult expression, before returning to her stoic one.
"Well? Is there any company you would like to hire Claude?"
"I do have some experience with these few locals, but I'm really interested in these foreign ones, what do you think, your highness?"
"I don't particularly find any interest on the intricacies of hiring mercenaries. But personally, I am intrigued as well. There's rarely any foreigners in Fodlan, let alone distant ones where the name of the land is something I've never heard of before."
"Then shall we pick one for the trip? I personally wish to hire the Galloglass."
"Hey no cutting in your princeliness. I wanted to see the Lands- whatever the spelling is. These guys sound like a fun bunch to be around."
"The Varangian Guards seem to be well-experienced. I would like to hire them if possible", the three students jabbed slightly, insisting on why their choice is valid. Before Dimitri decided to cut the conversation short.
"How about we consult the grand chamberlain? I'm sure he can arrange the deal, after all it's still an academy event, and the grand chamberlain often has the final say."
"Gah, I don't like it when we have to defer so quickly to the adults. Why leave the fun stuff to them when we can do it in their stead?"
"As irresponsible as Claude's statement was, I agree. We are the leaders of each of our houses. Surely we have a say when it comes to the activities of our classmates wouldn't we?
"Pardon, but can you elaborate more on this whole house thing?"
"Of course, the houses of the academy is basically a dorm from where the students originated. Take me for example, I am from the Kingdom of Faerghus, thus I am part of the Blue Lions house."
"The same could be same for us too, I came from Adestrian Empire, and my house would be the Black Eagles. Claude here came from Leicester, thus he is part of the Golden Deer."
"I humbly thank you for the proper introduction, your highliness. But yeah, basically every student that comes to Garreg Mach would automatically be assigned to any of these three houses based on their origins."
"Ah, so it's a dormitory. And the headmaster will be overseeing this event?"
"Not necessarily, but he will monitor and handle all the clerical matters necessary to run this event. Comes with the territory you see?"
"Tell you what, I owe some favors to the grand chamberlain. How about I waive the cost this one time and call all three of them to safeguard each of your houses? Free of charge of course."
"Oh, you don't have to. I'm sure the church can-"
"Please, I insist. Consider this a sample of my service. One of hopefully many yet to come", the man brought three papers from his drawer and gave it to the three students.
"These are the contracts to the three aforementioned companies that you are interested in. Give this to the headmaster and bring it back to me by dusk. The sooner you do so, the sooner these fine gentlemen can mobilize to the monastery."
"We thank you for the kind offer Sir Fred. We'll make sure the contracts return to your shop post-haste."
"Thank ye lord Dimitri. I'll be sure to bring them on the day of your departure."
"Many thanks old guy, it's rare for people to give freebies to us students and all that."
"Don't count on it lord Claude. Consider this one time a sample, the next time I'll expect the full payment upfront. And I'm not old. I'm still in my mid twenties. Just have not the time to groom meself that's all."
"Sure. Keep telling yourself that old man", Claude's smile reached his eyes if only for a moment.
"Harrumph! Keep that up and I shall curse ye with an even more glorious beard more than I."
"Heh, shaking in my boots already."
"We'll be taking our leave, I hope to see you on the day of the trip?"
"You can count on that lady Edelgard."
-20th of Great Tree Moon, 1180-
The courtyard of Garreg Mach Monastery is brimmed with first-year students. Bearing black uniform of the officers academy, making them indistinguishable from commoners and nobles alike. The only exception was the three house leaders bearing a cloak of their house's colors. A single graying man is currently speaking with the grand chamberlain.
"Is it wise to hire sellswords for this one outing headmaster? Surely we could wait for the Knights of Seiros instead?"
"I distinctly remember that you pushed for this schedule professor. It's already difficult enough to juggle the administration of the academy let alone the deployment of the knights, which I need to remind you, often carrying out important duties assigned by the Archbishop herself. Fret not however, I censured the man himself, and the detachment led by captain Alois is heading here as we speak. You need not worry."
"Still, I was informed by the students that the mercenary would be foreign stock. I'm not sure whether or not I can entrust the students to such boor who has no stake here on Fodlan."
"You should've brought that up during the last faculty meeting, professor. Now what's done is done, and we shall have to carry out our task. Also, I'll have you know that despite his foreign nature, he is quite amicable. Had I not met him myself and monitored his activities during the first few weeks, I might share the same concern, but I am confident that at the very least, he is professional."
"If you say so, headmaster. So when will this mercenary arrive anyway?"
"He should be here any moment now."
"Excuse me grand chamberlain. A group of armed men is approaching the monastery."
"What colors are they flying?"
"None that we knew off. But one of them is already by the door. He claims to be Fred, a hired sellsword contracted to the academy."
"Ah yes, he must be here with his contracts. Very well, let him in", the soldier saluted before leaving the two faculty members.
"Heard there was a commotion at the gate. Did our escort arrive already, teach?"
"Some of the guards were mobilized to the ramparts. Is it true?"
"Your highnesses! Fret not, twas simply our escorts. They've just arrived at the front gates."
"Glad to see that Mr. Fred is punctual."
"As is expected of men of his station, your imperial highness. It would be an honor of the highest caliber to even be able to serve as clerks to you at all. Let alone a job as important as this", the muttering was cut short when a group entered through the gatehouse. Four men accompanied the guard that was sent to receive the escorts.
At the front was Fred himself, behind him were three men bearing foreign armor, clothes and colors. The first one is draped in what seems to be a mish-mash of cotton and scale leather over a chainmail. A cloak of fur on the man's shoulder, with what seems to be a skirt going all the way to his shin. An open helmet atop his head. He seems to be the tallest of the group, with the most notable distinction of a sword nearly three heads taller than the wielder.
Next to him was another, draped from head to toe in chainmail. The face is obscured with helm and coif, a wooden shield the shape of a teardrop and an axe strapped to his back, a sword safely sheathed on the front of his belt.
The last bear a chestplate and clothes of various vibrant colors. A puffy hat with plume and a wavy sword as tall as the wielder.
"Grand chamberlain, lords and ladies. This humble Fred greets you", Fred slightly bowed. Now wearing a breastplate with cotton brigandine underneath. A sword dangling from his belt.
"Very good, we were expecting you Fred. And this would be?"
"My companions and leader of each mercenary band. This is Hrafn; the leader of the Varangian, Ronan; leader of the Galloglass, and Kruger; captain of the Landsknechts"
"Boðorð?", "Ar Lámh", "Bereyte", each saluted with their foreign gesture.
"I take it you shall accompany the students as well?"
"Yes. These folks are relatively new to Fodlan. They're asking me to be their interpreter to prevent any miscommunication between them and their clients."
"That would be best, this is Professor Calden von Erryis. He will be the faculty member running the event."
"A pleasure", Calden offered his hand, although his expression remains a stone. Perhaps hiding his distaste underneath.
"The pleasure is all mine professor", the three students who commissioned him approached.
"I believe you've already well acquainted with these three. But for formality sake, allow me to introduce them: This is imperial princess; Edelgard von Hresvelg, prince Dimitri Alexander Blaidydd, and ducal heir; Claude von Riegan. They shall be the leader of each house that will be traveling for this trip; the Black Eagles, the Blue Lions, and the Golden Deer respectively."
"A pleasure meeting you three again. I hope my associates meet your expectations, yes?"
"We shall see Mr. Fred. after all, the value of a hired blade is in their sword arm, true?", Dimitri chimed in. Paying close attention to the large blade.
"True indeed, your highness. So when shall we depart?"
"We will depart immediately. The knights of Seiros led by Captain Alois is already underway, and we're burning daylight. It would be best if we depart now and wait for them in the campsite", Calden intercedes.
"Then depart we shall. Lead the way, professor Calden."