I own nothing.
White Clouds: The Sword and the Mercenaries

(Y/N) groaned, feeling a breeze rush past her face and the soft chirping a birds. With a groan, the girl sat, clutching her head.
"Ugh...what happened? The last thing I remember was..." Her (E/C) eyes shot open, recalling the approaching darkness of the ring. "Keldeo! Corvisquire!"
She shot to her feet, a clinking sound being her as her boot hit something. Looking down, she saw the bottle that had locked away Hoopa's power, and with a relieved sigh, she picked it up, and assuring that her sword was back in its sheath, she surveyed her surroundings. The desolate canyon was replaced by a modest forest filled with green trees and lush grass. In the west, the sun was beginning to set. Hoopa in its final moments must have sent them away from the battle, and (Y/N) found her seemingly alone.
"Keldeo! Corvisquire! Where are you!?"
"(Y/N)?" A moan came from some bushes.
Running over, the girl found the Colt Pokémon sprawled out, his legs tangled in thick vines.
She let out a sigh of relief, drawing her blade to cut him loose. "Thank Arceus. I was worried Hoopa might've separated us."
"Well he better hope I don't find him." Keldeo threatened, shaking the foliage from his pelt once he was free. "I'll trample that imp if I get my hooves on him!"
"I think that can wait." (Y/N) said, sheathing her sword. "For now, we should find Corvisquire and figure out where we are so we can get back."
"Yeah. Have you tried whistling for him?"
"Not yet, let me try." Putting her fingers to her mouth, the human let out a long, loud whistle that the Raven Pokémon was sure to hear. A few minutes passed and as she wondered if she should try again, there was a familiar beat of wings as the blue and black bird perch on her arm. "Well, that's one problem solved. You okay, my friend?"
"Squire!" The Pokémon squawked as (Y/N) got him on her shoulder and mounted Keldeo.
"Good. Now, let's try to find a city or a village and see how far Hoopa flung us. Can you make the trip, Keldeo?"
He gave a proud smirk. "Hmph! Like you even need to ask!"
The equine Pokémon took off, quickly finding a river to follow along, and before long, the trees thinned to reveal a modest wooden settlement. Something about it seemed...off, different to the settlements they were used to. (Y/N) couldn't explain it, but the sight of it felt unnervingly unfamiliar. However, as they got closer, pillars of smoke began to rise into the air along with the sound of screaming. Instincts taking over, the trio burst into the village and had the weirdest sense of dejavú as they saw villagers running for their lives and bandits chasing them. One of the fiends jumped on top of a woman, and Keldeo didn't hesitate to run him down. (Y/N) drew her sword as she and the Pokémon took a guarding stance.
"Go! Run for your life!"
The woman stared at them in utter disbelief as the bandit dragged himself up.
"W-witch!"
"Rich coming from a thief!" Keldeo snapped back.
The man blinked at the water type before screaming and scrambling shouting 'demon' or something like that. The kids looked a bit confused.
"Let's ignore that for now." (Y/N) suggested, turning Keldeo towards the bandits.
"Agreed."
Fortunately, there were only a handful of bandits, wrapped in furs and welding torches and knives. At the sight of the trio, the men were quick to go running for the hills, or the dense forest anyway.
"Guess they're getting smarter to not mess with us!" Keldeo boasted as (Y/N) pursed her lips.
"Something isn't right. They were scared of Corvisquire's shadow."
"Like I said, smarter." The Raven Pokémon landed on Keldeo's head, nodding.
"Well, whatever the case, we should put out the fire. Keldeo, use Surf."
"Right away." The Colt Pokémon reared up and slammed his hooves to the ground, summoning a wave to smother the fires in one go. "Easy."
"Hail, traveler."
The trio looked up to see an old man with a cane approaching them as the rest of villagers seemed to be cowering. (Y/N) dismounted and sheathed her blade as she and Keldeo bowed.
"You must be this village's elder."
The old man held up his hand. "No need for such formalities, young one. We are in your debt for driving those marauders back."
"No trouble, elder. We're happy to help. Although..." (Y/N) glanced behind him, seeing the other villagers looking at them suspiciously from the shadows. "I apologize if we went a little overboard and scared everyone."
"Forgive them, brave one. They find your companions...questionable."
"What!?" Keldeo whined, making the old man's eyes go wide.
"It speaks!?"
(Y/N) immediately covered her partner's mouth as Corvisquire pecked his head. "Forgive Keldeo. He might be a bit of a chatterbox, but he's no more dangerous than any other Pokémon."
"Pardon me, I'm unfamiliar with that word. What is a Po-ke-mon?"
The trio looked at him, eyes now filled with panic.
"You...you don't know what that is?"
"I'm afraid not."
"Uh-oh." Keldeo and (Y/N) said together as the girl gulped.
"Elder, um, this might be an odd question but...where are we?"
"Oh, you're in Remire Village, just south of the border of Faerghus."
"N-no, what I mean is...what region or continent is this?"
"Um, Fodlan, young one. Is something wrong?"
"(Y/N)?" Keldeo asked, coming to the same conclusion as his rider.
"Hoopa didn't just teleport us far. It sent us to a completely different world."
At once, all three warriors fainted, much to the near heart attack of the elder.

(Timeskip)

Once the trio had been revived in the elder's home (and given ample opportunity to panic over their predicament), (Y/N) had the awkward task of explaining to the kind elder exactly what was going on. She was just grateful he didn't immediately accuse her of being insane, but she supposed the talking equine behind her had made their story more believable. Keldeo was graciously allowed to make a nest in the small house with Corvisquire on his back as the two humans spoke at the table.
"To think we'd have a traveler from another world in our humble village. Though, I suppose that would explain the strange goings on as of late."
"Can you tell us more about that?" (Y/N) asked, setting down the tea the elder's wife had been kind enough to prepare.
"Certainly. Not just here, but rumors have been spreading that around Fodlan, sightings of odd monsters keep popping up. Fodlan is no stranger to wild beasts, but these creatures are not nearly as prone to violence as to what we're used to. In truth, I've caught the village children sneaking off to play with the smaller ones on more than one occasion. These beasts also share a similar air as your companions there."
"I guess we weren't the only ones Hoopa caught." Keldeo concluded as his rider tapped her cheek.
"That must've been when we saw those rings when that earthquake hit. When those bandits unsealed its power, it must've gone wild. Who knows how many people and Pokémon got caught up in it."
"Forget about that! How are we supposed to get home!?"
"We need to find Hoopa. It was the one that sent us here, it could probably send us home."
"Who knows how long that would take! Assuming it's even in this world!" Keldeo argued as (Y/N) placed the Prism Bottle back on the table.
"We still have this. All of Hoopa's power is sealed within, so it might try to seek us out to get it back."
Both sighed, knowing it was likely a long shot, but it was the only thing they could do. Sensing their distress, the elder got their attention.
"If I may, young (Y/N), while I may not have any answers for your predicament, there may be a place that does."
"Really?"
He nodded. "In the center of Fodlan lies Gerrag Mach Monastery, the location of the central church of the Church of Seiros."
"And that is?" Keldeo asked.
"The primary religion of Fodlan. You must understand, in all three territories of Fodlan, the Church of Seiros reigns as the dominant faith. It has existed for as long as if not longer than even the Adrestean Empire."
"You mentioned a border to a different place earlier. Faerghus?" (Y/N) recalled as the older male nodded.
"Correct. Fodlan is divided into three different territories: the Adrestean Empire, where we currently are, the Holy Kingdom of Faerghus to the north, the Liechster Alliance to the west. And at the center of these three powers is Gerrag Mach Monastery. The monastery houses a vast library and the Officer's Academy, so if there are any means of finding your way home, it may be housed there. Considering these...Pokémon keep appearing across Fodlan, the archbishop may aid you if you offer her your assistance."
"Then that's where we'll go!" Keldeo stated, getting up.
The old man banged his cane. "Patience, Keldeo. The journey to Gerrag Mach is a trek, even for you, and I suspect you three are still tired from your struggles. Rest. My home is yours."
"We couldn't possibly do that!" (Y/N) said. "That would be taking advantage of your kindness."
"Well, it's more so I hoped to take advantage of your presence. You see, those bandits have been giving us trouble for some time now, and I suspect they'll go back to their tricks once you leave. I have already sent the call out to a skilled mercenary band, but it will take time for them to arrive. I ask that you three guard the village until they arrive. I'll make sure provisions for your journey are prepared as well."
The trio glanced between themselves before nodding, (Y/N) answering for the group.
"It would be an honor. A Sword of Justice, at your service."

(Timeskip)

"Lillipup, Mareep, Wooloo." (Y/N) stated to the village kids, pointing at each visiting Pokémon.
A week had passed since their arrival in the village, and most of the villagers by now were just about used to her and her Pokémon's odd presence. It helped that (Y/N) was a do-gooder by nature, and having the extra help certainly wasn't something to complain about. The bandits did poke their noses a bit, but they were sent running by the sight of Keldeo. Most of the excitement came from the Pokémon who started showing up in the village, either because the presence of Pokémon and a master called them, or the village kids were now emboldened to show off their new friends to their parents.
The boy holding the tail wagging Lillipup pointed at a plant-like Pokémon helping an old woman with her garden. "What about that one?"
"That's a Steenee." (Y/N) explained as Corvisquire flew next to the grass type and curiously pecked at it. "They're pretty easy going, but they can seriously pack a punch."
As if to prove her point, the Fruit Pokémon smacked the avian and kicked him a good ways away.
"Squire..." The poor thing moaned as (Y/N) walked over and scooped him up.
"Quit complaining." Keldeo scolded, giving a few of the toddlers a piggyback ride. "I've seen you take electric type moves!"
That gave Corvisquire a second wind as he immediately flew over and pecked at Keldeo's head, who couldn't even run away with the kids on his back. (Y/N) immediately got in between the two as the other children and the sheep-like Pokémon laughed. Just then, commotion came from the front gate of the village. After making sure the younger kids got home safe, (Y/N), Keldeo, and Corvisquire ran over to see a group of people at the gates. A rugged, largely built blonde man was speaking to the elder, a Mudsdale at his side.
"(Y/N), Keldeo, I was just about to call for you." The elder said. "This is Jeralt Eisner. He and his band will be assisting us going forward. Jeralt, this is the one I told you about."
"Right, the kid with the talking horse who knows about the monsters. You and I might need to have a chat. Still, you're a bit young to sword fight."
"Age is but a number." She joked as Keldeo stomped a hoof.
"Who are you calling a horse!?"
Jeralt blinked. "Huh, he really does talk. Just when you think you've seen everything."
The Mudsdale seemed to huff in agreement as (Y/N) walked up to them and scratched their muzzle after being given permission.
"You seem to be getting along just fine with Mudsdale here, Mr. Eisner."
"Just Jeralt is fine, kid. And is that what it's called? I've honestly just been calling it beast or the like. Found it tangled up in the woods and cut 'em loose. Now it won't stop following me! Though, I'll admit, the beast is a hard worker. Certainly helps to have something that can do the work of five horses."
Jeralt patted the Draft Horse Pokémon on the snout, who gave a hardy snort.
(Y/N) laughed. "Well, Mudsdale are hard workers, and they're about as tough as they come."
"Hey!"
"Besides you, Keldeo."
"In any event, (Y/N), I assume you'll want to head out on your journey soon?" The elder asked as the girl nodded.
"Yes. We really should."
"I'd say you stick around for a week at least." Jeralt warned. "Storms have been brewing and you don't want to be caught up in them."
"Great, more waiting?" Keldeo complained as the elder smiled.
"You're all more than welcome to stay. I dare say you three, Jeralt, and his group could all learn from each other."
"JERALT! IT'S BACK AGAIN!"
They all turned to see the mercenaries scatter as the strangest Pokémon (Y/N) had ever seen came barreling through the gates, looking for something. The creature was a quadruped and chimera-like, with a brown helmet encasing its head. Its footsteps were heavy and it glanced around.
"Ah, that thing's after the kid again!" Jeralt growled, Mudsdale seemingly gearing up for a fight. "Byleth!"
Just then, a young woman wielding a sword stepped forward, a cold expression on her face as she pointed the blade at the creature. The Pokémon did not care in the slightest, initiating a play bow as if a weapon were not pointed at its face.
"WHOA!" (Y/N) shouted, immediately putting herself between the Pokémon and the woman. "I don't think we need the sword!"
"It won't stop pursuing us." The woman stated, her voice as emotionless and stoic as her expression.
"It just wants to play." The creature walked up to the woman, rubbing its head against her leg like a cat. "Specifically with you."
She backed up, but the Pokémon simply followed after her. Keldeo tilted his head in confusion.
"He really likes you."
"Did you do something that might've endeared you to him?" (Y/N) asked as the older female pursed her lips.

(Flashback)

Byleth was alone by the riverbank, fishing for herself as her father worked out their group's payment for this job. Three fish were already cooking by the fire and Byleth snatched one up as soon as it was edible enough. Just as she was about to bite down, rustling came from the woods and in the blink of an eye, she had her sword drawn and the fish clenched between her teeth as some sort of creature came tumbling out of the woods, face first and ribs showing. It let out a pitiful moan, looking at the fish in her teeth with puppy eyes. Dropping the fish, Byleth debated for a moment before tossing her catch to the starving beast.

(Flashback End)

"Yep, that'll do it." Both Swords-in-training declared.
Jeralt sighed, palm on his forehead. "Really, kid? I've told you what happens when you feed stray cats. Always assume this is the outcome."
"Hmm." Byleth grunted, the mysterious Pokémon happily curled at her side.
"Well, I think this guy's just going to keep following her. She earned his loyalty, and that is not so easily shaken."
"Well, I suppose there are worse beasts to have around a mercenary band. Last time, I saw claw through an entire barricade of tree trunks." Jeralt capitulated before turning to (Y/N). "The elder said you knew what these things were. So what is it?"
She shrugged. "Not sure. I've never seen a Pokémon like this before. Luckily, Keldeo should be able to get his name. All yours, Keldeo."
The water type marched up to the Pokémon and began conversing in their language, getting weird looks from everyone.
"He says his designation is Type Null."
"...well that's getting changed. We should probably get that helmet off him too." Type Null screeched, backing up and shaking his head. "You don't want us to take it off?"
He nodded and made a noise that sounded like a cross between a bark and a roar, which Keldeo translated.
"He says it's too dangerous."
Jeralt sighed, shaking his head. "Geez, kid, couldn't you have made friends with one of the smaller ones?"
Byleth said nothing, simply looking at Type Null with only a spark of curiosity in her eyes as an expression.

(Timeskip)

One week somehow managed to turn into a month. Whether it was bad weather, the children crying and begging her not to go, Jeralt and Byleth asking for their assistance with Mudsdale and Type Null, or their unspoken want to stick around, the trio of other worlders stayed in Remire, kinda getting adopted into Jeralt's mercenaries, especially when Jeralt figured out (Y/N) had been separated from her family. The leader himself was quite charismatic for someone so on the stern side. In truth, his reminded (Y/N) a lot of her father, which was a comfort. Byleth was...another story. It wasn't that (Y/N) and Keldeo disliked her, it was more so she was a bit...no, very hard to read. If the younger girl didn't know better, she'd say Byleth completely lacked emotions with how stoic and coldly efficient she was in a fight, reflected in her nickname: the Ashen Demon. Still there were glimmers of emotions that Byleth kept close to her chest. She always gave sword demonstrations whenever the village kids asked her, Corvisquire had caught her on more than one occasion giving smaller Pokémon food, and she always had Type Null trailing after her like a Lillipup. Despite any hesitations, (Y/N) and Keldeo really enjoyed the time they spent with Jeralt and Byleth, especially on days like this one where they got to show off their skills in training.
With the sun setting behind them, (Y/N) grunted as her sword clashed with Jeralt's lance. Keldeo leapt back as Mudsdale reared up for a Stomp, leaving a crater where the Colt Pokémon had been.
The equine Pokémon circled one another as their riders engaged in playful banter.
"Not bad, kids. I guess your fancy Swords of Justice did a good job training you. Keep this up, and I may have to ask you to join us, provided you get a bit taller of course."
"Funny." (Y/N) shot back with a smirk. "You've gotten pretty good on Mudsdale. Guess old dogs really can learn new tricks, even when their lance strikes aren't what they used to be."
Jeralt laughed. "Oh, so that's how it is. I figured beating a squire and her beast into the dirt was bad form. Plus, wouldn't want to break that fancy sword of yours."
"You wish! That twig you call a weapon will snap long before it can scratch my sword!"
Mudsdale snorted as his rider held said twig out. "All right then, show me."
(Y/N) smirked, subtly pulling at Keldeo's mane with her free hand. Reading the signal, Keldeo charged. Right when he would've collided with Mudsdale, he fired off an Aura Sphere. The ground type and Jeralt batted it away, but that gave Keldeo the opportunity to pivot, sliding under Mudsdale's belly to get at Jeralt from his back. (Y/N) thrust towards him, but the old mercenary barely managed to swing his lance around to deflect, forcing the kids to retreat as Keldeo smiled.
"Guess it pays to be the little guy sometimes."
"All right, I'll admit that was something." Jeralt said as Byleth and Type Null emerged from the woods. "Hey, kid. Any sign of them?"
"Nothing to report." His daughter responded curtly.
"I bet they ran scared of us." Keldeo boasted as Jeralt dismounted Mudsdale.
"Maybe, but I'm not convinced. Low lives like these don't go quietly. (Y/N), Keldeo, you guys and Corvisquire have the night patrol."
"Yes, Jeralt." They responded as (Y/N) walked up to Byleth, greeting Type Null.
"I wonder what those thieves are waiting for."
"That's not the job." Byleth responded.
"I know, but I'm curious. If they're really hanging around, it's more like they're waiting for something." She then smiled up at the older female. "So, have you thought of a name for him yet? Please tell me you're not still thinking of just calling him Null."
"My suggestion of Mongrel is still on the table." Jeralt joked.
"His name is Cassian." Byleth replied in usual monotone.
"Hey, that's pretty good!" Keldeo said. "Where did you come up with it?"
"The village elder suggested it. He says it means empty."
(Y/N) made a face. "Empty, null. Got it."
"Your form was off."
"Huh?"
Byleth all but manhandled (Y/N) into a thrust position, drawing her own sword. "Pull closer to your chest and strike. More force, more speed. Don't be fancy with it. You have a one handed weapon for speed, use it."
Byleth demonstrated a few times before (Y/N) copied her, feeling the difference in speed from her usual thrusts.
"Wow, I can feel it! Thanks, Byleth! You know, you're not bad at teaching."
She just grunted and walked off, Cassian trailing after her, likely for a nap. Keldeo walked up to his rider with a look as Jeralt ordered them to prepare for their shift.
"A bundle of laughs as always."
His partner bonked him on the head. "Come on, she's not that bad. If anything, my swordplay's gotten better thanks to her and Jeralt."
"Maybe she can teach me to use my sword then." Keldeo shot back, his frustration palpable as (Y/N) got on his back. "She has just as much of an idea how to do it as I do."
"Hey, we'll figure it out eventually, then nothing's gonna stop. Come on, let's go grab Corvisquire and be back before Byleth and Cassian eat our portion of dinner again."
The patrol passed fairly quietly for a spell as night covered the woods. Corvisquire blended into the darkness, able to squawk out alarms if he saw anything, but that was moot with no enemies to fight.
"Ugh, this is so boring!" Keldeo complained. "Why do we have to do this?"
"Will you quit complaining?" His rider asked, annoyed. "Seriously, you complain about us being stuck in the temple, and now you're complaining about us having a to job to do! Pick one or the other, I'm not gonna put up with you whining about both!"
"Well excuse me for not being excited to drag my hooves for the hundredth time just for nothing to happen!" Keldeo then stopped. "...hey, (Y/N), what are we even doing?"
"What do you mean?"
"This! We should be out there trying to figure out how to get home! Instead, we're walking in circles, no closer to getting back to our world!"
"Keldeo..."
"I just...we don't belong here, and I don't like the idea of getting comfortable. We're going to be a Sword of Justice, and we can't be that here."
"Hey, we're gonna find our way back. I promise. This isn't forever. Besides, even if we aren't a Sword just yet, helping the needy is still our duty, so stop moping if you're really serious."
Keldeo rolled his eyes, but kept walking. "Grrr, I hate you when you're right."
"I would think you'd be used to it by now."
As Keldeo fought instinct to buck his partner off, Corvisquire let out an alarm up ahead. The Colt Pokémon almost guided through the woods as the two managed to locate their flying friend. He wasn't alone though, but rather than bandits, there were three, well dressed individuals: two males, one girl. The boy in the yellow uniform had tan skin, green eyes, curly black, and a bow and arrows on his back. The other male was the tallest of the bunch and had a mop of blonde hair and blue eyes that matched his royal blue uniform. The girl was in a red uniform and had shock white hair and purple eyes, along with wielding a hatching. All three were obviously older than (Y/N), but they also seemed younger than Byleth. They weren't alone either. By the feet of the bowman, an autumn form Deerling who looked absolutely petrified. In the air, a Rufflet was persistently chasing after Corvisquire, trying to herd him towards a Shinx who was preparing to pounce. The more experienced flying type easily dodged out of the way, causing Rufflet to crash into the electric type. The two immediately began squabbling as Corvisquire perched on a low branch.
"Enough, both of you!" The blonde male said, snatching Shinx up by the scruff. "This isn't the time to be fighting amongst ourselves!"
"Oh, has his highness finally decided to accept the kitty's demands for affection?" The brunette male joked, petting Deerling. "Never took you for a cat person, Dimitri."
"Claude, now is not the time. Besides, regardless of their dubious origins, these creatures did come to our aid before."
"True." The girl said as Rufflet perched on her shoulder. "At the very least, this one should be able to help us locate the village, assuming your words weren't just talk, Claude."
"Ouch. You wound me, Princess! I'll have you know I have it on good authority that Remire Village is close by and that there is a band of mercenaries stationed there."
"He's not wrong." (Y/N) said, Keldeo trotting out of the shadows.
The teens turned their weapons at the newcomers, blinking in confusion as they saw it was just a child a top a strange looking horse.
"Oh, pardon us, little one." The blonde, Dimitri, said, putting Shinx down. "We didn't mean to frighten you."
"Seems like you're the ones frightened, not surprising since these woods are bandit infested. Though, judging by how out of breath you are, I'm guessing you're well aware of that." Corvisquire swooped down and landed on her arm. "You need help getting to Remire Village? We can get you there."
"Much appreciated, friend." Claude said, putting his bow back on his back. "But how can we be sure you aren't some diversion the bandits sent out?"
"Claude!" Dimitri scolded as the girl chuckled.
"No, no. He has a good point, but from where I'm standing, exactly what are your other options?"
The trio looked at each other before Deerling and Shinx walked over to them, motioning with their heads to follow, Rufflet seeming to glare at them.
Claude shrugged. "I suppose you have a point, friend. And the little ones seem to trust them."
"I suppose there is no other alternative." The female of their trio sighed.
Dimitri nodded. "Lead the way..."
"(Y/N). This is Keldeo, and this is Corvisquire."
The Raven Pokémon saluted as Keldeo turned. "Try and keep up. We've been keeping those bandits from doing their usual raids, so I'm guessing they're getting desperate."
(Y/N) could almost hear their jaws drop.
"D-did that horse just talk?" Claude asked.
"Yes I did. Unless you want to be bandit fodder, quit gawking, start walking."
Getting back to the village was simple enough, and (Y/N) made sure to tell the elder to evacuate the villagers once another mercenary was sent to get Jeralt and Byleth. Sending out Corvisquire to act as a sentry, (Y/N) ran back to the three teens once preparations had been made.
"Jeralt should be here any minute. I'm afraid he'll have the final say on whether or not the mercenaries help you. Hope you have the coin for it."
"Would that not also include you as well?" The girl, who (Y/N) had overheard was named Edelgard, asked.
She shook her head. "No. Keldeo, Corvisquire, and I just happened to be in the same area as them. We were giving the village a bit of protection before the band showed up, and that kinda spiraled into us working with them and their Pokémon."
"Pardon me, but I've never heard that word before." Dimitri interjected. "What is a Pokémon?"
Keldeo smirked, holding a hoof up.
"I'm a Pokémon. Corvisquire is a Pokémon. And those three," He pointed at the three who had arrived with the teens. "Are Pokémon as well."
"I see." Edelgard said, patting Rufflet's head. "I was curious if these strange beasts were classified."
"I would hope so, considering they've been popping up all over the place." Claude retorted before looking at (Y/N). "So, you know about them?"
"We all come from the same place." (Y/N) answered, leaning against her partner. "You can probably tell we're not native to Fodlan. It's a lot to explain right now, but where we're from, Pokémon are everywhere, and they're a part of our everyday lives."
"Truly?" Dimitri asked as Shinx brushed against his legs. "To be honest, I was quite fearful when reports of these creatures began to amass. To think there is a place where they are so common. It's hard to picture."
Claude smirked. "Aw, don't be like that, your highness. You took that cat fairly well. You should've heard Lorenz when this little wandered into our classroom and curled up under a desk. He was convinced our class was destined for greatness since our house symbol came waltzing through the front door. Of course, you two had to go and adopt your own house symbols."
"Hardly adopt." Edelgard argued. "More so, this one just appeared and decided it lived there now."
Their blonde friend nodded in agreement. "I had a similar experience. This one just appeared one day while I was training and hasn't left me alone since."
"You fed it, didn't you?" Edelgard scolded, making him rub his neck.
"Well, there was fish in the mess hall that afternoon and they seemed quite peckish."
(Y/N) chuckled. "I think Shinx was impressed by how strong you are. They recognize strength."
"Shinx?"
"That's what he's called. And he is a boy. The one on Edelgard's shoulder is Rufflet, who are always boys, and Claude's friend is a Deerling, though they don't have any gender differences."
"Dee!" The small grass type cried, prompting Keldeo to translate.
"She's a girl."
Claude patted Deerling's head, which she quite enjoyed. "Well, it's nice to be able to call them something other than the deer, the cat, and the bird. Might make things easier when we get back to the monastery."
That caught (Y/N)'s attention. "Um, would that happen to be Garreg Mach Monastery?"
"Yes. We all happen to be studying at the Officer's Academy."
Edelgard gave Dimitri a sharp look. "Perhaps it would be wise not to give that information so freely, Dimitri."
"Actually, could we-,"
"(Y/N)."
Everyone turned to see Jeralt, Byleth, and their Pokémon approaching.
Dimitri gave a respectful bow. "Please forgive our intrusion. We wouldn't bother you were the situation not dire."
Jeralt sighed. "Why am I not surprised that you three are the ones bringing more trouble after a patrol."
"Hey, we switched patrols with Byleth this morning!" Keldeo complained. "She would've found them instead!"
"Anyways, what do a bunch of kids like you want at this hour?"
Again, Dimitri took the lead. "We're being pursued by a group of bandits. I can only hope that you'll be so kind as to lend your support."
"Bandits?"
Edelgard nodded. "It's true. They attacked us while we were at rest in our camp."
"We've been separated from our companions and we're outnumbered." Claude jumped in. "They're after our lives...not to mention our gold."
Jeralt placed his hands on his hips. "I'm impressed you're staying so calm considering the situation. I...wait. That uniform..."
A high pitch shriek tore through the air.
"That's Corvisquire!" (Y/N) said, hopping onto Keldeo. "The bandits are here! And judging by that call, there's a lot of them!"
"I guess they followed you all the way here. Perhaps inviting people being chased by a group of ruffians here was a bad idea." (Y/N) and Keldeo both smiled innocently. "Well, we can't abandon this village now. Come on, let's move. Hope you two are ready."
Byleth nodded silently as she, Cassian, and the children followed after Jeralt, who mounted Mudsdale. The three students and their Pokémon also followed, likely feeling obligated to protect Remire after endangering it. When they got to the village gates, Corvisquire was waiting for them as the bandits began swarming out of the forest, some setting the brush on fire.
"Let's take care of those thieves before they overrun the village!" Jeralt ordered. "(Y/N), kid, clear the way."
"On it!" (Y/N) responded as Byelth nodded her head.
"Thank you." Dimitri said. "We are in your debt. It wouldn't do for us to fall in a place like this. Please, lend us your strength. Let's work together to drive out these thieves!"
Keldeo smugly held his head up. "Just try and keep up and we'll call it even."
Edelgard stared at them intently. "You lot have a strange aura about you. Show me what you can do."
Doing just that, Keldeo reared up and charged as (Y/N) drew her blade. One bold bandit had come charging in headfirst, obviously not expecting any resistance and was promptly met by (Y/N)'s blade. Two more came from the woods to avenge their comrade, but a Byleth swatted the one on the left as Cassian and Corvisquire tag teamed the remaining one with a combination of Crush Claw and Aerial Ace.
"Stay vigilant." Byleth said, likely trying to sound stern, but only managing monotone.
"Yeah, yeah." Keldeo brushed off as the kids went to work.
Jeralt and Mudsdale were an army in of themselves, so they along with the three guests and their Pokémon were forced to pick off any stranglers. Dimitri was impressively holding back two guys by himself as Shinx growled, his fur beginning to spark.
"Dimitri! Close your eyes!" (Y/N) called in warning.
The blonde did so without thinking as the Flash Pokémon fur turned blinding white. The bandits shrieked as their eyes burned with flash, allowing not only Dimitri to stab one of them, but giving Byleth to finish off his partner from behind. Shinx yipped proudly, climbing up the male's shoulder, who gave a grateful scratch under his chin.
"That was quite something, little one."
"Shinx will watch your back." (Y/N) assured running off to look for the others. "He won't let anything sneak up on you!"
Claude and Deerling didn't need any instruction as the Season Pokémon bond the bandits up with Leech Seed long enough for Claude to shoot them down. That left Edelgard, who was quite firm with that axe of hers and Rufflet providing coverage from the sky.
"Get that stupid bear out here!" One bandit called.
From the shadows, and massive Ursaring came barreling out, roaring and frothing at the mouth as they trampled even their supposed allies. It was clear these bandits had mistreated it as Ursaring had manacles clamped around their neck and limbs with heavy chains dragging behind them, not to mention an ungodly amount of scars likely from a whip.
"You animals!" (Y/N) yelled as Keldeo stomped on the head of the nearest bandit.
Regardless of their feelings, the Hibernator Pokémon charged Edelgard, despite Rufflet's best attempts to distract them, who readied her ax. Knowing this was a bad idea, Keldeo launched at her, tackling her out of the way as Corvisquire nabbed Rufflet. Ursaring bit through the now abandoned ax and kept going, ramming headfirst into a tree and snapping it in two. (Y/N) pulled Edelgard to her feet as the bear-like Pokémon shook its head, unfazed.
"Wanna try that again?"
"No, I've certainly learned my lesson."
Ursaring roared in madness, this time having Claude and Deerling in their line of sight. Seeing the Pokémon coming, Claude nabbed Deerling and bolted up the nearest tree trunk. Ursaring shook the tree as the green eyed boy clung for dear life.
"Claude! Tell Deerling to attack!" Keldeo yelled, racing to get over there.
"With what!?"
"He doesn't know Deerling's moves!" (Y/N) shouted at her partner. "Deerling! Jump Kick! Go for their head!"
"Ling!"
Deerling wiggled from Claude's grasp, and dove straight down, planting all four hooves against Ursaring's head before kicking off. Ursaring staggered, dizzy as it swiped at the retreating grass/normal type.
"Keldeo, Aura Sphere!" (Y/N) ordered.
The Colt Pokémon leapt, firing off an Aura Sphere that sent the other Pokémon flying. Terrifyingly enough, Ursaring still appeared to be in an enraged state and attempted to get up, only for a wall of rocks to jut up from the earth, blocking their path. They all turned to see Jeralt there, his lance tipped with blood as Mudsdale huffed.
"We'll deal with the bear later. We need to take down the leader!"
Everyone understood and followed after him, being rejoined by Byleth, Dimitri, and the other Pokémon. Eventually, the bandit leader, a surly, ugly looking fellow, appeared, barking orders at his band.
"What the?!" He screamed, seeing Jeralt advance. "Aren't you Jeralt the Blade Breaker? What's a renowned mercenary like you doing here?!"
"I'm the one who should be complaining. I'm caught up in the mess you started!"
Jeralt landed a nasty blow with his lance as he sped past, Mudsdale kicking the guy in back for good measure. Shockingly, the bandit rolled and got to his feet, going after the students. Byleth blocked his path.
"Hey, you with the blank stare! Outta my way!"
Byleth did not respond, swinging her sword with the momentum of a bat and all but launching the leader a good few feet away. The bandits all stared, seeing their leader defeated, but still, somehow, the man leapt back to his feet and charged Edelgard, who was now by herself. She drew a knife, only for Byleth to push her out of the way, exposing her back as the bandit leader swung down.
"You'll die!"
"BYLETH!" (Y/N) and Keldeo screamed as they ran towards her, despite knowing they would be too late.
However, time froze, and suddenly, they blinked their eyes, seeing the bandit leader on his back as he had been a moment before.
"W-what?" (Y/N) stuttered.
Like before, the bandit jumped back to his feet and charged Edelgard. However, this time, when Byleth pushed her out of the way, she was facing the bandit and held up her sword to deflect the ax. Cassian then came rushing in, raking his claws across the bandit's face, making him screech in pain. As he scrambled to his feet, blood dripping from the two talon marks across his face, everyone circled Byleth. Clearly flustered, the bandits turned tail and ran, marking the end of the battle.
With a sigh of relief, Jeralt glanced at his daughter. "Hey, did you just-?"
Corvisquire let out another call as the mercenaries and the Swords-in-training readied themselves. The Raven Pokémon flew out of the shadows followed by a group of much more put together folks. They looked like knights, led by a brunette in silver armor and a cape.
"The Knights of Seiros are here! We'll cut you down for terrorizing our students. Hey, the thieves are running away! Go after them! The students seem to be unharmed." He then looked at the trio with a tilted head. "And...who's this?"
"Ugh... Why him?" Jeralt groaned.
"You know him?" (Y/N) asked as the stranger beamed, walking up to them.
"Jeralt?! It is you! Goodness, it's been ages. Don't you recognize me? It's Alois! Your old right-hand man! Well, that's how I always thought of myself anyway. It must have been 20 years ago that you went missing without a trace. I always knew you were still alive!"
"You haven't changed a bit, Alois. Just as loud as ever. And drop that "captain" nonsense. I'm not your captain anymore. These days I'm just a wandering mercenary. One who has work to do. Good-bye, old friend." Jeralt couldn't snap Mudsdale's reins fast enough. "As fast as you can, beast!"
"Right... Good-bye, Captain." Alois then shook his head. "Wait! That isn't how this ends. I insist that you return to the monastery with me!"
Jeralt sighed, pulling his mount to a halt. "Gerrag Mach Monastery... I suppose this was inevitable."
Alois didn't seem to notice Jeralt's annoyance, instead turning to Byleth and (Y/N). "And how about you, kids? Are you the captain's children?"
"She is." (Y/N) corrected, pointed at Byleth. "I'm not."
Byleth nodded. "That is correct."
"Is that so? Well, physical differences aside, your mannerisms do remind me of the captain. And what about you, little one? What brings you and that strange steed of yours out here?"
"I'm getting tired of this scene." Keldeo huff, making Alois reel.
"I-it-!"
"Yes, Keldeo is rather talkative." Jeralt explained, dismounting Mudsdale as Corvisquire landed on Keldeo. "As for (Y/N) here, she's been assisting us with the new creatures in Fodlan, as you can see. It just so happens she and her companions were heading to the monastery to offer their knowledge in exchange for help."
"Truly?! In honesty, these new creatures have certainly made us scratch our heads. If you're willing to help us on that front, I'd love for you to see the monastery too. You will join me, won't you?" Byleth along with the trio nodded as Jeralt let out a long sigh. "What's troubling you, Captain? You aren't about to run off again, are you?"
"Even I wouldn't dare run from the Knights of Seiros. Come on, Mudsdale."
Jeralt pulled along the large Pokémon as he and Alois walked away to talk.
"What's up with your dad, Byleth?" Keldeo asked. "He seemed off when those knights arrived."
Byleth placed a hand under her chin. "I don't know."
She then flinched out of nowhere, which (Y/N) caught.
"What is it!? Are the bandits back?!"
"N-no..." Byleth denied, taking a second to respond. "It was nothing."
(Y/N) raised a brow, not used to seeing a jumpy Byleth, but sheathed her sword regardless. Cassian then trotted up to her person, nudging at her side.
The younger girl smiled fondly. "I think Cassian deserves a big treat after taking out that bandit leader! Don't you think, Byleth?"
She hummed, placing her hand on his neck and scratched. "Good job."
Cassian purred as Keldeo rolled his eyes.
"I think she meant food."
The trio of students then approached them, their Pokémon stumbling after them.
Edelgard stepped forward, extending her hand to Byleth as Rufflet perched on her shoulder. "I appreciate your help back there. Your skill is beyond question. You're clearly an experienced mercenary. And your father...that would be Jeralt, the Blade Breaker? Former captain of the Knights of Seiros. Oft praised as the strongest knight to ever live. Have I missed anything?"
Byleth accepted the handshake. "I didn't know he was a captain."
"How curious. I'd wager the explanation for that is fascinating indeed."
"Hey! You all are coming with us to the monastery, right?" Claude asked. "Of course you are. I'd love to bend your ear as we travel. Oh, I should mention that the three of us are students of the Officers Academy at Garreg Mach Monastery. We were doing some training exercises when those bandits attacked. I definitely got the worst of it."
"LET!" Rufflet cried, flying over to peck at his head as Edelgard shook hers.
"That would be because you ran off."
Claude waved off the flying type, who went back to his person. "Too true! I was the first to make a strategic retreat. Everything would have worked out if these two hadn't followed me and ruined everything. Because of them, every single one of those bandits chased after us. Utterly ridiculous."
"Ah, so that's what you were thinking, Claude." Dimitri commented As Shinx gave him an unimpressed look. "And here I thought you were acting as a decoy for the sake of us all."
Edelgard rolled her eyes. "His intentions were as clear as day. You will prove a lacking ruler if you cannot see the truth behind a person's words."
Shinx growled at the insult, though Dimitri took no offense to it. "Hm. You will prove a lacking ruler if you look for deceit behind every word and fail to trust those whom you rely on."
Claude continued to sow discourse. "Oh, joy. A royal debate between Their Highnesses. I wonder how being completely predictable affects one's ability to wield power. Personally, as the embodiment of distrust, I'd say your little exchange smacks of naiveté."
"Me? Naïve?" Edelgard shot back. "Tell me, are you actually incapable of keeping quiet, or is your lack of self-awareness a condition of some sort?"
"Regardless, I think we owe thanks to these three when we were separated from our companions." Dimitri knelt down, brushing Shinx's fur. "I didn't expect them to follow us from the monastery, let alone be so quick to aid us."
"You must've left a good impression." (Y/N) said with a smile, brushing Keldeo's mane. "When you have a Pokémon's loyalty, there's few things they won't do for you."
"In any case, forgive our digression. I must speak with you both, if you can spare a moment. The way you held your ground against the bandits' leader and that bear was captivating! You never lost control of the situation. It showed me I still have much to learn."
Edelgard nodded in agreement. "Your skill is precisely why I must ask you all to consider lending your services to the Empire. I might as well tell you now. I am no mere student. I am also the Adrestian Empire's–,"
"Halt, Edelgard." Dimitri asked. "Please allow me to finish my own proposition. The Holy Kingdom of Faerghus is in dire need of exceptional individuals such as yourselves, not to mention someone capable of handling these new creatures. Please, do consider returning to the Kingdom with me."
"Whoa, there!" Claude called. "You two sure are hasty. Trying to recruit someone you just met. Tactless, really. I was personally planning to develop a deep and lasting friendship on our journey back to the monastery before begging for favors. But it seems there's no time for niceties in this world. So, capable strangers, let's get right to it. Where do your allegiances lie?"
"Kinda rude to put us on the spot like that." (Y/N) said, feeling a bit flustered.
"The Holy Kingdom of Faerghus." Byleth answered without hesitation, getting a look from Keldeo.
"Did not take a lot to convince her."
Dimitri seemed rather pleased. "Understood. Faerghus is a noble and distinguished kingdom that has always valued chivalry."
"I supposed you did fight alongside each other back there." Claude noted, turning to (Y/N). "I just suppose that means I'll just have to convince our young friend here to join me."
"I'd like to see you try, Claude." Edelgard challenged, prompting (Y/N) to step behind Byleth.
"Why do I have a sinking feeling that our lives are about to get more complicated?"
"Like they aren't already?" Keldeo asked, prompting Corvisquire to squawk in agreement.

Okay, chapter one! Now, I do want your guys' opinion on who gets what Pokémon and why. I will say Dedue and Leone are now also off the board!