The Cardinal

Aelfric! How serendipitous that you have come to our aid!

I am relieved that I wasn't too late. I do hope my presence proved useful.

No doubt about it. We needed the backup.

So, you're Aelfric...
You're with the church...

Professor. I do believe this is the first time our paths have crossed, is it not?

Of course, I have heard all about you from Her Grace, the archbishop.

Allow me to introduce myself. I am Aelfric. The church has granted me custodianship of Abyss.

You look after Abyss?
Pleased to meet you.

Indeed. And despite my responsibilities, I am but a humble monk.

The pleasure is all mine.

I am sure you have already been told about Abyss's unique situation.

For varying reasons, all of the inhabitants here are unable to live a peaceful life on the surface.

People like the Dagdans and Almyrans, who suffer undue persecution across Fódlan.

The poor and the sick, who were forced into Abyss. Not to mention all the other unfortunate souls who ended up here.

I believe it is my sacred duty to provide a place for those who have nowhere else to go.

Claude

Right. And the poor and sick living in a sunless crypt helps them...how?

Dimitri

Enough, Claude. Please forgive my friend, Aelfric. We would love to hear more.

In all honesty, I understand his concern. I dearly wish I could provide a better life for my flock.

But it would appear that Her Grace and most of the church consider the existence of Abyss to be... something of a nuisance.

A nuisance?
That can't be true.

I'm afraid so... Those within the church who would see Abyss purged are swiftly growing in number.

No? I've heard tell of those within the church who intend to purge Abyss.

Hapi

That's the church for you. They make a big deal out of helping the helpless...when it suits them.

We can't just sit back and accept the way things are. We've gotta fight the system!

Sure, I'm here to hide from literally countless bounty hunters, but I'm not the only one in need.

You're in a bad way too, Hapi. We can't just let the church walk all over us.

Too true. For the sake of all who dwell in Abyss, we must help dear Aelfric to turn the tide!

I am overwhelmed with gratitude. Your fervent support is all the reward I could ask for.

As for you, Professor, I must beg a favor of you.

What's the favor?

The Ashen Wolves are a house in name alone. They are eager students with no teacher to guide them...

If you could find it in your heart to take them under your wing, I would be most grateful.

Naturally, your official duties take precedence, so you need only help out when your schedule allows.

Yuri

Wait a minute, Aelfric. Where's this nonsense coming from?

I second that question! We have no need of a professor when we have you.

Dear flock, I am a mere guardian. I can protect you, but I cannot enrich your minds.

Though I call this gathering an academy house, I have long lamented that it isn't truly so.

Now, I am blessed with the opportunity to correct this. The professor who stands before you has garnered a great deal of acclaim on the surface.

A most trustworthy and esteemed teacher, to say the least. What's more, I happen to be acquainted with the father of this fine individual.

How do you know my father?
When did you meet my father?

I met Jeralt back when he was a knight.

I was born and raised in Garreg Mach, so I often had the opportunity to spend time with him.

Your mother, as well... She was a cherished friend of mine. I was even present for their wedding.

With parents like yours, I have no doubt that you possess the kindness and patience necessary to guide these students.

But...

Yuri

It'll be fine. It's not like we're strangers anymore.

Yuri

Say, Aelfric... Don't you need to take care of those thieves?

Ah, right you are. Please, excuse me.

Oh, and one more thing, Professor...