A/N: Hey guys! I bring to you all the new chapter for this story. I apologize for the late update and also if this story has some errors. I'm going to try and reach out to my editor that worked on "A New Beginning" to see if he/she is interested in working on this story. For now, let's respond to reviews!

SkyRune: Ultimately, I think I'll probably decide for Ludger to sort of have some moments with 'Milla' and Lara, but no official couple between either. I don't know, honestly it's hard to choose between the two for me.
-Well if you ever finish Berseria, you should definitely check out my other story. It seems to be going well for the other readers

Grayjack72: Yup, it continues although update will be rather slow for this story

kingawesome: Ah no worries. I hope you will follow through with this story though

Guest: Glad you liked it. As for Leia, I just felt that she was given a poor role as some reporter in ToX2 and had very little impact. Thus I ultimately decided her becoming a Chimeriad could be an interesting take considering the Chimeriad is still alive in this story

Arco-Alaude: Thanks! I have some ideas but I'm considering whether to approach it or not. There's another note from me at the bottom of the chapter. Do let me know what you think

Sony Ninja: I originally planned to have 'Milla' have four Great Spirits like Milla, but decided to stick with just Celsius and Aska for now.
-It's really difficult for me. There are ships for Ludger x 'Milla' and also ships for Ludger x Lara. I'm rather conflicted honestly

Roxas Blaze: Yeah. When I wanted to start the first chapter, I had some trouble on trying to figure out how to give an update to the readers without making it clear it's an exposition dump and making it seem flow with the story.
-About relationship, it's tough to decide one for Ludger. It's ultimately between Ludger x 'Milla' or Lara. I can't choose
-As for the future plot for this story, you should read my notes on the bottom and let me know what you think

SonicProdigy55: Yup, I'm quite pleased with how the first chapter started for the story. As for what I have in store for the future chapters, that will be revealed with time.
-Well let me know what you think of my ToB x ToX story but it seems to be well-liked so far, so that's a good sign

Guest: For now, the update for this story will be probably monthly or at the very least, 3 weeks around there.

Jakezero: Lol, that's an interesting alternative title for "A New Beginning", although I guess that makes sense, haha.
-Glad you liked that little moment between Jude and Milla, hehe

Teloch: Considering Muzet is with Maxwell, she won't be appearing too much in this story, unfortunately.

Well that's it for responding to reviews. I hope you guys will enjoy this new chapter and do let me know your thoughts of the new chapter or how the story is coming along. Till next time!

CHAPTER 2: A TERRORIST ACT

Screams. Flames and smoke. Bodies scattered around, most dead while some still alive with grievous injuries. That was the result of Exodus attack on the school at Sharilton, and this was just the beginning. After the explosion earlier, several Exodus soldiers armed with machine guns stormed into the school, firing their weapons at anything that moves.

Elize was fortunate that she wasn't anywhere near the blast but she wasn't safe either. Teepo wasn't with her, which she needed in order to cast her artes. But what she had was experience with situations that endangered her life, so she was much more calm and composed compared to her fellow schoolmates.

"Everyone! Hide inside here!" Elize ordered, opening a door of one of the empty classrooms.

Elize acted as a leader, ordering any nearby students to rush inside the empty classroom before any Exodus soldier spotted them. She even went out of her way to drag an injured teacher nearby into the classroom, not wanting to risk the Exodus soldiers finding the teacher and executing her. Once she was sure that most of the students were safe and she couldn't find anyone else, she also hid inside the classroom.

From inside the classroom, Elize and the frightened students could see outside through the windows and witnessed Sharilton soldiers rushing to the main entrance, only to be gunned down by Exodus soldiers from the distance. It was a horrific sight for anyone to see, but especially so for the students who all had never seen such violence in their life.

"What's going to happen to us?"

"I don't wanna die!"

"Mommy… Daddy… Help me, I'm scared."

This was what the students were saying, all frightened and thinking they would die. For a few short minutes, they could still hear the gunshots occurring in the distance. Then silence. After that, everyone in the classroom could hear footsteps. They got closer, and closer, and closer. The footsteps finally stopped in front of the classrooms, the students all hurdling together, frightened.

The door opened. The person behind the door was a large man wearing a yellow coat with white fur, wielding a large hammer. With his other hand, he was holding a leg belonging to an Exodus soldier, which appeared to be either dead or unconscious.

"Jiao!" Elize cried out happily.

Jiao turned to the source of the voice and was relieved, "…Elize. Thank goodness you're safe."

Elize being happy to see Jiao in the flesh was an understatement. Not having Teepo meant she was defenseless, so if it had been an Exodus soldier, she wouldn't have been able to defend herself or the students.

"Stay where you are, child." Jiao warned, throwing the Exodus soldier he was holding. "More are coming. Whatever happens, stay inside the classroom. I'll handle this."

"But Jiao…!"

"Stay inside."

That was Jiao's final words before he closed the classroom door. Elize wanted to call out to Jiao, but she held back. The large Chimeriad member was doing this for her sake. She couldn't ruin his plans.

Jiao stood in front of the classroom, waiting for the Exodus soldiers to reach this area. Now that he knew where Elize was, he could at least prioritise defending this area until reinforcements arrived. He should be able to hold out until then.

After a few minutes, Jiao could hear the synchronised footsteps of the Exodus soldiers coming from the other end of the hallway. He prepared himself. When the Exodus soldiers noticed the large man before them, they quickly took action.

"Fire!"

The Exodus soldiers all pulled their triggers and fired their machine guns at the large Chimeriad member. Instead of trying to block the oncoming bullets with his large hammer, he used his massive strength and swung his weapon downward, smashing the concrete floor. This forced the ground to shoot upward and moving forward, creating a pillar which blocked the bullets for Jiao. The pillar continued moving forward and hit the group of Exodus soldiers like bowling pins.

A second wave of Exodus soldiers arrived and opened fire at Jiao once more. With the ground destroyed, Jiao couldn't perform the same technique and rushed at the group of Exodus soldiers while using his hammer as a shield, blocking the bullets fired at him. However, he was a large man so his hammer could only shield his vital spots. Some of the bullets managed to graze his legs and arms, but he ignored the pain. Once he reached the Exodus group, he swung his hammer at everyone, smashing them all off their feet as if they were dolls.

For a while, Jiao managed to fend them off. But unfortunately, he was alone and slowly, he was getting more and more tired. The Exodus soldiers were persistent, either calling for more backup or recovering from Jiao's attack and joining the fight. At one point, Jiao's had a lapse in concentration, which allowed an Exodus soldier behind him to seize the opportunity, firing one shot into the back of Jiao's knee.

"Ugh!"

Jiao stumbled down on one-knee, his injured leg unable to support his weight. In his crippled state, the Exodus terrorists thought Jiao was done for but the giant was still fighting, swinging his hammer and knocking two Exodus soldiers away. The Exodus soldiers quickly stepped back and aimed their weapon at the giant Chimeriad member.

Jiao tried to get back on his feet but fell back down on one-knee. The gunshot on the back of his knee was hindering his movements.

"…Is this the end?" Jiao wondered, looking at the Exodus soldiers around him. He could block the bullets coming from one side with his weapon.

Jiao closed his eyes and waited for death to claim him. When he heard the sound of a gunshot, he thought it was over. He waited and waited. But it never came. Even more strange, he expected the gunshot to be followed by several others, but it was only singular. One lone shot. What followed next was the sound of a large sword slicing through flesh.

"W-Who are you?!" An Exodus soldier cried in fear.

Jiao opened his eyes and saw all the terrorists attention was no longer on him but on something else. He also noticed one Exodus soldier lay dead before him, a gunshot wound in the center of his forehead.

The Exodus soldiers all opened fire at something on the opposite end of the hallway, but Jiao couldn't see who or what they were shooting at. When they finished firing to reload their weapons, another gunshot echoed opposite end of the hallway and a bullet pierced through an Exodus soldier on his chest, killing him. It was then followed by a battle cry. Two figures came dashing towards the group of Exodus soldiers, one wielding a large sword with a gun on his other hand, firing at the terrorists. Jiao recognized the person, as well as the figure next to him.

"Alvin…? And Jude!" Jiao exclaimed.

Alvin and Jude were still a short distance away from the Exodus soldiers when they finished reloading their weapons. They raised their machine guns and immediately opened fire, pulling the trigger. However Jude and Alvin did not stop, continuing their move forward. Just as the wave of bullets were about to reach them, the ground shook violently and a wall of earth shot up, acting as a wall and shielding the pair from the bullets.

Unknown to Jiao and the Exodus terrorists, Milla Maxwell hid behind a wall on the opposite end of the hallway and had summoned the Great Four spirits to her side. Gnome, the Great Spirit of earth, was the one responsible for erecting the wall for Jude and Alvin.

"This is just like old times, eh Jude?!" Alvin said, reaching the Exodus terrorists and slashing them with a swing of his sword.

Jude slammed his fist on the nearest Exodus soldier, "It's just been two months since we worked together!"

"Sounds like a long time to me!"

Alvin acted as the vanguard, swinging his sword around and slicing any of the Exodus soldiers foolish enough to try and engage them. With his family's golden pistol on his other hand, the terrorists positioned from afar weren't safe either, receiving shots to the chest from the mercenary. As for Jude, he was quick on his feet and used his agility to the fullest potential, smashing his fists at the Exorcist soldiers and delivering earth-shattering kicks as well.

"Aqua Sweep!"

"Variable Trigger!"

Both Jude and Alvin applied their respective artes, Jude sweeping his feet around him and knocking surrounding Exodus soldiers while Alvin aimed his gun at a line of Exodus terrorists and pulled the trigger. The bullet pierced through the skull of at least three Exodus soldiers, killing all of them.

"Looks like the Allium orbs are working well." Alvin said to Jude, "We were able to link up and coordinate our attacks."

Jude nodded in agreement, "You're right. It's working just like the Lilium orbs. Once I make the final tweaks, the team can release it to the public."

At this point, the now small number of Exodus soldiers understood that this attack was a failure and needed to retreat. Each of them scrambled at different directions, probably trying to minimize their casualties by not escaping in a group.

But that was their mistake.

The plan was to have Jude, Alvin and Milla attack the Exodus terrorists and force them to retreat. Now that they were trying to escape in random directions, King Nachtigal, Rowen along with the combined forces of Rashugal and Sharilton soldiers came storming into the school. In just a minute, the Exodus terrorists have either been killed or captured.

After the terrorists have been dealt with, more Sharilton soldiers and city guards entered the school to deal with the aftermath. Those that died were wrapped in body bags and to be identified while those injured but alive were treated by doctors of the Sharilton army.

Elize was listening through the door and when she didn't hear the sound of a battle anymore, she opened the door. She was surprised to see Jude, Alvin and Milla at the hallway assisting an injured Jiao.

Elize immediately dashed out of the classroom and towards her friends. "Jiao! Jude! Everyone!"

Elize held Jiao in a hug. Jiao reciprocated the hug, "Elize… Its okay, it's over. I'm glad you're safe."

"Today was Elize's first day of school, wasn't it? Thank goodness she's safe." Jude said in relief.

Milla nodded, "Indeed. I don't want to imagine what would have happened if we arrived too late."

Elize turned to Jude, "J-Jude, you came from Fennmont, didn't you? How'd you know about the attack? And how'd you arrive so quickly?"

"Nachtigal and Rowen told us about the attack. About how we got here so quickly, well… Nachtigal issued all of us the fastest horses he had. He only has thirty of them, so Rowen handpicked only the best soldiers from Fennmont to come along. It's kinda frightening how fast the horses were."

"The old man said that the horses were a special breed and could use mana like normal Rieze Maxians." Alvin added, "So what's normally at least a day's trip between Fennmont and Sharilton, we arrived here in just an hour."

"I've heard of these horses. They say they're almost as fast as a wyvern." Jiao stated.

Jude nodded to that, "Yeah, but we really pushed the horses to the limit. Because of that, I think Nachtigal and Rowen will have to stay here for a day for the horses to recover."

Jiao grunted and tried to stand up, but was stumbling. Alvin and Jude each landed a hand, with Jude pulling Jiao up and Alvin lending his shoulder to lean on.

"I should speak to the King." Jiao said, "Elize and I witnessed firsthand what happened here. The King needs to know what happened. The governor's sister was with us, but she only saw what happened at the beginning before she rushed for help."

"Sure, big guy. The King's probably at the front of the school. Let's go find him." Alvin said.

So the small party made their way outside of the school, with Alvin and Jude supporting the limping leader of the Kitarl clan. During their way out, it was a rather disturbing sight. The hallways were decorated with dried blood and Sharilton soldiers along with the city guard cleaning up the mess and picking the dead bodies. Most of the casualties were teachers, but there were a handful of students as well. No doubt because of this incident, the students of this school would be traumatized from this event.

At the front of the school courtyard, Jude and his friends saw King Nachtigal and Rowen speaking with the governor of Sharilton, Cline. Next to him was his sister, Driselle. The party approached them.

Cline saw the party and stopped his conversation with Nachtigal, approaching the party. "Rowen and the King told me you guys came to help. From the bottom of my heart, thank you! I can't imagine what would have happened if you arrived later." Cline then looked at Jiao, who was being supported by Jude and Alvin, "You're hurt. I'll go get some doctors to treat your injuries."

"No, that can wait." Jiao said, "I wanted to speak to you and the King about what happened. It's vital that you know every little detail."

Cline saw Jiao wasn't going to budge on his decision so he relented, calling Nachtigal and Rowen over. Driselle stayed behind, not wanting to impose. The two joined the party and Jiao started talking, telling Nachtigal and Cline about what happened before, the beginning and during the attack. Jude, Alvin and Milla listened in as well since this was news to them.

After Jiao finished, the party waited for Nachtigal and Cline's response. The King of Rashugal didn't say anything for quite some time, thinking of what to make of this recent attack from Exodus. Finally he made a decision.

Nachtigal turned to the governor of Sharilton, "Cline, I'd like to speak with you at your manor."

Cline didn't even question Nachtigal's intent. "Okay."

Nachtigal faced Rowen next, "Ilbert, I wish to speak with Cline alone. I leave it to you to attend to matters here."

"Of course, your Highness."

Cline moved in the direction of his manor with the King following him. The pair was escorted by two Sharilton guards. Now that the King and the governor were gone, Rowen as the Chief of Staff supervised the Sharilton soldiers and city guards with cleaning the mess here at the school. Since Jiao already said what he wanted, Rowen assigned two doctors to tend to his injuries, which Jiao didn't argue. The doctors took Jiao elsewhere to heal him.

"I apologize, but it appears I will be busy here for a while." Rowen said to the group, "Why don't you all head for the tavern first? I'll meet you all there after I have finished here."

"We can stay and help, Rowen." Milla offered.

"You three have already done more than you should. If we didn't meet at Fennmont and left without you, I fear to imagine what might have happened here instead." Rowen then turned to Jude, "By the way, Jude, how were the Allium Orbs? Did it work?"

Jude nodded, "Yeah. It's almost like the old Lilium orbs. I was able to link with Alvin and coordinate our attacks together. I just need to make one last adjustment with the team and we should be able to release it to the public."

"That's wonderful news. His Highness will be pleased to hear that."

Alvin spoke next, "Well we can talk more about the Allium orbs together later. For now, we'll head to the tavern first, right old man?"

"That's right. After I'm done here, I'll meet you there."

Rowen bid the trio farewell before walking towards the school to oversee the Sharilton soldiers and city guard.

Alvin wrapped one arm around Jude's shoulder and the other on Milla. "You heard the old man. Let's go! After dealing with Exodus, I need a drink to wind down."

"Alvin, I don't remember you needing a drink so much, but since seeing you again, you keep saying you need a drink." Jude pointed out.

"Ah, I've read of this before. So Alvin is what you call… An alcoholic, was it?" Milla added.

Alvin couldn't help but laugh, "Oh come on guys, it's not that bad. I actually like the occasional drink. Only reason you never saw me asking for drinks so much in the past was because we were actively on a mission. I mean, ever since I first met you guys back on that ship, we've been moving all over the place. I couldn't afford to get drunk! Now that the schism is gone and things have sort-of calmed down, I can relax a little more."

Jude sighed, "So this is the real you."

"Yup. This is the real me."

The three of them then made their way for the local tavern. Even if Sharilton just suffered a terrorist attack, life still had to continue. Business remained open. Besides a tavern was a place for the people to relax and wind down from the pressures and stress of everyday life. A short while later, they found the tavern and entered the establishment, taking a table for themselves.

Alvin ordered a drink while Jude and Milla ordered some light snacks. They passed the time by making idle small talk and as time passed, more and more people entered the tavern. Once the place got filled up, most of the patrons talked about one thing – the terrorist attack on the school earlier. Jude, Alvin and Milla listened. Some shared their disgust and hatred for the terrorist organization, Exodus, while others were concerned about the safety.

An hour or so passed when two familiar faces entered the tavern. Jude was the first to spot them and he was surprised to actually see the pair.

"Hey, Ludger! 'Milla'! Over here!" Jude called out.

Ludger and fractured Milla heard the voice and saw Jude waving at them. They also saw Milla and Alvin sitting with Jude. The pair hurried towards the table.

"How'd you guys know we were here?" Alvin asked.

"We saw Rowen earlier and he told us to meet you three first, and that he'd join us later." Fractured Milla answered.

"Never mind how we found you." Ludger interrupted and turned to his friend, "Jude, we heard at the Sapstrath seahaven that Exodus attacked Sharilton. Is that true?"

"…Yeah, it's true. Um… You two should take a sit." Jude said.

Ludger and fractured Milla were still standing around the table. The pair took a sit. Ludger sat next to Jude and fractured Milla sat next to Milla with Alvin on the opposite side. After that, Jude told everything he heard from Jiao about the start of the attack and how the Exodus terrorists massacred anyone that stood in their way. Teachers, innocent schoolchildren and even bystanders were not spared.

"Is Elize okay? It was her first day of school, wasn't it?" Ludger asked.

Jude nodded, "Yeah. Jiao was there, so when Exodus attacked, he entered the school to find Elize. He managed to buy enough time for us to arrive."

"That's a relief." Fractured Milla said with a sigh, "At least Elize and Jiao are safe."

Jude finally reached the end, "…I'm not saying I wanted this to happen, but the Exodus attack at least helped me to test out the Allium orbs that my team was in charge of creating. Overall, it's safe to say that it's working just like the Lilium orbs. I just need to make some final adjustments before we can release it for the general public."

Ludger couldn't help but smile, "The Allium orbs, huh… I remember when Milla first learned that I use Allium orbs, she suspected me that for being a spy since the booster for the Allium orbs is a spyrix device."

Milla blushed, "Hey! I apologized for that!"

"He's just teasing you, Milla." Jude said with a chuckle. Ludger was having a small laugh.

"It appears you still have much to learn about human interactions." Fractured Milla added, enjoying the flustered look Milla had.

Milla groaned, "Not you too."

Ludger, Jude and fractured Milla all laughed together, causing Milla's face to grow even redder. Jude always saw Milla as a beautiful and strong woman, but this was the first time he saw Milla acted so… cute. He forced himself to look away, a small blush growing on his cheeks. Milla just looked so adorable!

By now Alvin had chugged several cups of beer and was mildly drunk. He stood up and raised the cup he had in his hand at the air, "All right! To celebrate Jude's success with completing the Allium orbs, let's make a toast! Come on, let's go!"

"Hey Alvin! You're being too loud!" Fractured Milla cried.

Jude added, "And the Allium orbs still aren't completed yet. I still need to make the final tweaks with the team at Fennmont."

"So we'll have an advanced celebration instead!" Alvin declared.

"This isn't how it works!"

"Oh come on kid, don't be such a spoil sport." Alvin said with a laugh, taking another chug of his beer, "It's been around two months since we actually got together. It's not all of us, but I think we need this little get-together to catch up!"

Before things could get a little out of hand with the mercenary, a gentle hand gripped Alvin's shoulder. Alvin turned around, wondering who it was only to find another familiar face.

"My word, you all appear to be really enjoying yourselves." Rowen said with a smile.

"Rowen!" Jude called out.

"I apologize for being late."

Alvin snickered, "Good to see you made it, old man. Here, have a drink!"

Rowen glared at Alvin for a few seconds before saying, "Alvin, are you drunk already? Isn't it a little too early for that?"

Alvin totally ignored Rowen's question and took another gulp from his glass. Either that or he did not hear Rowen's question at all. So while Alvin was out of the conversation, Milla asked a question for the Conductor.

"Rowen, where's Elize?" Milla inquired.

"Ah, she insisted she wanted to watch over Jiao. His injuries have been treated and I offered him to recuperate at Lord Cline's manor. He refused at first, but Elize was adamant that he accept the offer. With what he was up against, he had no choice but to accept."

Jude chuckled, "Jiao is like a father-figure to her. I can't blame her for worrying about him."

"Anyway, for now we can take the time to relax a little bit." Rowen declared and took a sit with his young friends, "After Exodus's attack today, I believe things are going to be busy again."

"Is it something to do with why Nachtigal wanted to speak with Cline?" Fractured Milla asked.

"I believe so, although I'm not sure of what is it exactly they wish to discuss. Regardless, Exodus's attack today on a school inside Sharilton proves they are growing more aggressive. Before this, they have only pillaged villages for resources and attacked small military outposts. Today was the first time they have openly slaughtered innocent lives. That is Nachtigal's limit – and so is mine. That is why I believe after today, we probably won't have another opportunity to relax like this. So we should enjoy the time we have now."

With that, Rowen picked up one of the cups of beer on the table and took a sip. He wanted to enjoy himself but the Conductor was still an elegant gentleman, taking small sips while casually making small talk.

Jude, Milla and fractured Milla felt that Rowen was right. If Nachtigal was going to take action for this, then there was a chance they would be involved. Jude for his Allium orb and the two Milla for their expertise in dealing with Exodus. No doubt Alvin and Ludger would get involved as well. So for now, they really needed to relax.

Ludger suddenly got up from his seat, "Sorry… You guys go ahead. I'm not really in the mood for drinks. I'll head outside and get some fresh air."

"Ludger, you…" Fractured Milla started to say but Ludger was already gone.

"…He left again." Milla said before taking a sip of her drink.

Jude looked in the direction Ludger had gone, and then at fractured Milla. She seemed resigned to not follow Ludger. The past two months, fractured Milla and Milla were probably the only ones that remained in touch with Ludger, although it was hard to say. The young Kresnik didn't really stay in one place, moving from different towns to spend the night at the local inn. He does frequent Nia Khera though, which was why the two Milla were the ones that interacted with Ludger the most recently.

Jude turned to fractured Milla, "Judging from your reaction, he's been doing this a lot?"

Fractured Milla nodded, "You could say that. I really don't know what's going on with him lately. He likes to keep to himself."

"She normally finds him alone at the Kijara Seafalls." Milla added.

"He assures us he's fine, but… He's always like this. He doesn't want us to worry about him." Fractured Milla said with a sigh.

Jude looked downwards at the table, wondering what could be plaguing Ludger's thoughts. He swore in the past that he would do whatever necessary to help his friend, but what can he do? He didn't have an answer.

Skit: Like a Couple
Present: Jude, Milla, Fractured Milla, Alvin & Rowen

Alvin: Oh man, this is just great! I almost forgot the great times we had when we were together! It's nice to just loosen up once in a while, eh

Milla: I guess it is nice to share these moments with friends.

Jude: Just don't go overboard with drinking, Milla.

Milla: Don't worry. I may not look like it, but I have a pretty high tolerance for alcohol.

Jude: Y-You do?

Fractured Milla: She does. You don't know how many times since we returned to Nia Khera and she asks me to keep her company over drinks.

Jude: *Sweat drops* E-Even so, just be careful with how much you drink, Milla.

Milla: Jude, I'm fine. I can handle my liquor.

Alvin: *Stares at Jude & Milla*

Jude: W-What?

Alvin: N-Nothing. I just can't help but feel like you two are bickering like an old married couple.

Fractured Milla: *Spits drink in shock* M-Married?!

Jude: H-Hey, Alvin! You didn't have to joke like that!

Alvin: Huh? What, you don't want to marry Milla?

Jude: *Blushes deep red* I, I, uh… I mean, no, I mean y-yeah, but… That's not…

Alvin: You're still so gullible. Guess that's why you're still a kid to me. *Laughs*

Rowen: Ah, the joys of youth…

Milla: Hm?

XXX

Outside the tavern, Ludger didn't stray too far from the tavern and chose to lean on a nearby lamp post, staring up at the sky. It was dusk now with the sun about to set. The streets that would normally be filled with people walking pass was less. While his friends remained inside the tavern, he chose to be alone outside.

While he was alone, he started to hum the 'Hymn of Proof', the Kresnik's family song. He had been doing this a lot recently. So while he enjoyed his solitude, his mind soon started to drift about the nagging insecurity he has been feeling recently.

Ludger started thinking, 'Jude, Leia, Rowen, Alvin, Milla and 'Milla'… They all have a home or purpose in this world. But what about me? Ever since we dispelled the schism, I… feel like I don't have a purpose. I know I need to complete Origin's Trial, but this world… It's like I'm an outsider. I don't have a home. In the original timeline, I had an apartment with Julius at Trigleph, but now…?'

It wasn't just about not having a home. It was his identity. Of course everyone in this world knows him as Ludger Kresnik, the one that came from the future to change the past. But that was all. No one knows his history, his childhood or anything else that made build the Ludger Kresnik they saw today. Just like Origin had warned him, the person known as 'Ludger Kresnik' no longer existed.

Yes. Ludger was beginning to fully experience the meaning of Orign's words – 'Ludger Kresnik' doesn't exist in this timeline.

XXX

Two hours passed by before the party finally had enough, paying for their drinks and exiting the tavern. Ludger rejoined the party then. Since it was already late, Rowen offered the party to spend the night at the Sharil manor. Even though he no longer worked as a butler for the Sharil family, he still visited the place from time to time, so Cline and Driselle had already informed the guards and staff of the manor that Rowen was welcome anytime.

So the party accepted Rowen's offer.

After a night of drinking to relax, everyone drifted off to sleep relatively quickly after being assigned to their rooms. Well it was just two rooms, with Milla and fractured Milla sharing one room while Ludger, Jude and Alvin in the other. As for Rowen, Cline always reserved the Conductor's old room for whenever the old man would visit. As for Jiao, he was resting in another guest room with Elize watching over him. She had a chair next to the large man, but had fallen asleep.

The next day, everyone woke up relatively early. After a pleasant breakfast together, Rowen announced that King Nachtigal needed to speak with them. The party assembled at the large living room of the manor, where Nachtigal, Cline and Driselle were waiting.

"Ludger, you're here too?" Nachtigal said with surprise. Since Ludger and fractured Milla arrived at Sharilton after the terrorist attack, it wasn't a surprise Nachtigal didn't know. "This is good. You can join us as well."

"So you need our help for something?" Jude asked the King.

"Correct. I'm sure Rashugal's elite can also handle this, but I prefer to place my trust in more capable hands."

"Well, I take it you're hiring then? Let's talk about the fees." Alvin said with a sly grin.

"Alvin!" Jude scolded.

"It's a joke, it's a joke. Geez kid, you're still the same as always. But I'm still a mercenary, you know. I could use a little compensation."

Nachtigal couldn't help but be amused, "So you're still a mercenary? Very well. Once you accomplish the task I have assigned, we can talk about payment. Will that be okay with you?"

"Heh, fair enough. So what's the mission?"

Nachtigal took a step back and it was Cline who stepped forward. The young Governor spoke, "As you're all aware, the attack by Exodus yesterday on Sharilton's most prestigious school was an unforgivable act by the terrorist organization. We all know that they have been active for a while now, but this was the first time they have openly attacked a public building like this and took innocent lives. Exodus has crossed the line. We cannot ignore them any further."

"So what do you want us to do?" Ludger questioned.

Cline continued, "I spoke with King Nachtigal last night about the issue, and we have also sent messages to King Gaius of Auj Oule and to the Chancellor of Elympios about the issue. We are asking to have a meeting between representatives of the three nations to tackle the issue of Exodus's existence."

"Representatives?" Fractured Milla repeated.

Cline nodded, "Rowen will be representing Rashugal. I am also sending my sister, Driselle, to represent Sharilton. Although Sharilton is under Rashugal and not an independent nation, our city does govern itself on its own and thus we also have a voice."

"So I take it our mission is to escort the representatives to the meeting place?" Alvin inquired.

"Correct."

"Where's the meeting going to take place?" Alvin asked next.

"At Elympios." Cline answered, "However since it is rather last minute, you will meet with Elympion officials at their seahaven and they should bring you to the meeting place."

"So who is Auj Oule's representative?" Milla questioned.

"Presumably it will be one of the Chimeriad. He or she will meet you at the Elympion seahaven." Cline waited for any further questions before he continued, "This meeting isn't going to be known by the public, but even so, we need to you all to be careful. If Exodus catches wind of this, they might set a trap. That is why we want you to be the escorts."

Jiao spoke up, "I need to return to Auj Oule and inform King Gaius what I witnessed. I cannot join on this escort mission."

"Oh right, of course. I was referring to Jude and his friends." Cline said.

"Should I come too?" Elize asked.

Cline looked at Elize and wondered whether he should allow the young girl to follow or not. On one hand, he would prefer to not get a young girl involved in this. But on the other hand, Elize was a talented arte user and has travelled with the group before.

Driselle sensed her brother's worries and answered for him, "Elize, if you don't mind, I'd appreciate it if you came along. It's going to be my first time travelling on a ship, so I'd really like to experience it with you."

Cline nodded, following his sister's lead, "And besides, you won't be able to attend school until it reopens again. And I will feel much safer if my sister is with you."

Elize's mood brightened instantly, "I-I'll go get Teepo!"

Elize scurried off to her room to get Teepo. She needed her doll since it acted as a booster too. After she disappeared from ear-shot, Cline addressed the party again.

"So will you be the escorts for Rowen and my sister?" Rowen asked the party.

"Well, if I'm being paid for it, can't say no to that." Alvin said.

Ludger, fractured Milla and Milla agreed as well.

Jude thought for a moment, then looked up, "If we're going to be escorts, then I guess the Allium orbs I have with me might come in handy. Yeah, I'll come along too."

"Thank you. We really appreciate this." Cline said gratefully.

Since Ludger and his friends have volunteered themselves, Nachtigal felt the meeting was over. He stepped forward, "Then I will return to Fennmont. Cline will have ships ready for you at the Sapstrath seahaven. Jiao, will you need a ship as well?"

"I appreciate the offer, but I will summon the royal wyvern. It is much faster that way." Jiao replied.

When Elize returned with Teepo a short moment later, Jiao bid farewell to the girl he almost considered his daughter and told her to be careful. After that, the party along with Jiao exited the Sharil manor.

King Nachtigal and the Rashugal elite troops that came from Fennmont also departed from Sharilton. After Driselle said goodbye to her brother, they too departed the city and headed for the Sapstrath seahaven. Their destination – Elympios.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Several hours passed since the ship the party was on left the Sapstrath seahaven and was finally approaching the Elympion seahaven. Since this was Driselle's first time on a ship, it was a thrilling experience for her. She enjoyed the journey from the seas of Rieze Maxia to the open waters of Elympios.

As the ship approached the Elympion seahaven, most of the sailors, passengers and even the captain himself were amazed at the sight before them. Driselle also was mesmerized at the sight. They could see multiple high-rise buildings of Trigleph in the distance. In Rieze Maxia, the tallest and biggest building was either Orda Palace at Fennmont or Kanbalar's Royal Castle. But in Elympios, multiple-story buildings were common.

As for Ludger, Jude and the party with the exception of Alvin, this was technically their first time to step foot in Elympios. At least in this timeline. But they have already seen Elympios before in the fractured dimension that mirrored the original timeline, so they weren't as awestruck as Driselle and the passengers.

When the ship finally docked at the harbor and the sailors allowed the passengers to disembark. The party just entered the seahaven when two men dressed in suits approached them.

"Rowen Ilbert of Rashugal?" One of the men asked.

"Yes, I am." Rowen answered.

The two men looked at the group before asking, "…And Driselle of Sharilton?"

"I'm here." Driselle replied.

"And your entourage is…?"

"Our escorts." Rowen responded.

Again, the two men looked at the group, "Wingul and Leia of Auj Oule?"

"They didn't travel with us."

The two Elympion officials shared hush whispers with one another. After a few short seconds, they stopped with one of them walking away.

"My partner will remain here to meet with the Auj Oule representatives." The Elympion official explained, "The meeting will be held at Elympios's capital, Trigleph. We will need to take a train there, which requires a GHS. As you are all outsiders, I will be your escort as well as your means to access our trains. Please, follow me."

To Ludger's knowledge, the Elympion seahaven was outside the city limits and would take at least twenty minutes by train to reach Trigleph. In the original timeline, Jude and the others never got to actually use the seahaven because of the existence of Marksburg, which acted as a cross-cultural port town connecting between Elympios and Rieze Maxia.

After a short five minute walk from the seahaven, the party and the Elympion official entered the train station.

"Wait here." The Elympion official instructed, "I need to make the arrangements. Don't go anywhere."

The party obeyed, staying together and not moving. But Ludger felt rather nostalgic to be once again in Elympios and just drifted a short distance away. He wasn't far but he did separate from the group. He was looking around him and wasn't keeping track of his surroundings. He bumped into someone.

"Oof!"

"Kyaa!"

Ludger and the woman both fell on their behinds after walking into each other. Ludger quickly got up and offered his hand, which the young woman accepted. Ludger pulled her up and the two looked at each other.

"Sorry, I wasn't looking at where I was going." Ludger said apologetically.

The woman blushed lightly, shaking her head, "N-No, it was my fault as well."

The young Kresnik just stared at her, almost like looking at someone he knew but he couldn't tell from where. The young woman shared the same feeling. Something about Ludger seemed so familiar to her, especially his emerald green eyes. His eyes looked exactly like the young girl she had befriended on the streets of Elympios.

"Excuse me, but… Do I know you?" The young woman finally asked Ludger.

Ludger blinked, "Um… I don't think so."

"…No, I guess not. I'm sorry for being so rude and asking like that."

"No, it's fine. Don't worry about it."

The woman offered her hand, "I should introduce myself. I'm Lara. Lara Mel Marta."

Ludger instinctively reached out for her hand, but then stopped. "…Huh?"

CHAPTER END

A/N: About how I wish to take this story - I have read from Gamefaq and general comments how ToX2 lacked because of reused asset, and after playing most tales games and the recent Berseria, I can agree to some extent. ToX2 did not feel like the typical Tales game mainly because we are simply visiting old towns. Ludger and his party never really "adventured" from Town A, do something in Town A and move on to the next town. I'm not sure how to express it properly, but basically ToX2 didn't have that sense of adventure.

With this story, I'm planning to have Ludger and cast to actually be forced to venture to new areas and towns in Elympios due to circumstances, thus giving it that feel of adventuring together in the story. Of course since in ToX2 we are only introduced to the town of Drellin, that means the new towns in this story will be made up and not canon. I'm not sure how to feel about that.

What do you guys think?