Opening 2: Asura's Wrath - In Your Belief
Shadow was waking up after being fatigued from overusing his Chaos Regeneration ability.
'This ability significantly drains me of Chaos Energy... I used to handle it just fine, but my current body is limiting how much I exert this energy...' Shadow thought, thinking of the Chaos Regeneration ability.
Holding on to the red Chaos Emerald, he could still feel his power slowly being restored. The process was gradual, but to Shadow, it was taking too long.
'I don't think I'll have enough time to recover from the backlash... It may take about a week till I'm in peak condition from this Chaos Emerald alone.' Shadow noted mentally.
Looking around, he realized he was in the Lowscythe Military Port.
'I must have exhausted my powers when I healed Henry's dragon and himself. Either way, I hope for Henry's sake that he finds his loved one and fled the country.' Shadow thought.
He soon heard the door open. Everyone from Group Code Zero came to Shadow upon seeing him awake. None were more relieved than Tiffania, whom leaped to embrace Shadow.
"Shadow! You're okay!" Tiffania said, holding him close.
"Easy there, Tiffania. I'm okay for now, but I'm still recovering." Shadow said, holding her close.
Soon, the Chaos Emeralds responded to the positive emotions nearby. They were glowing brightly till their energy was soon channeled to Shadow. He felt his strength returning back to peak condition.
"The Emeralds... They gave their energy to me..." Shadow said.
"Don't ever worry us again, Shadow..." Louise said.
"You may be strong, but don't risk your life for us. I don't want to lose a friend." Saito followed.
"Persistent, but don't be so daring." Charlotte replied.
"I'm glad you two are in one piece." Silver said.
Soon, Henrietta and Bowachi came in. Seeing Shadow fully recovered, both felt a sense of relief.
"Splendid job, Shadow. You managed to help us capture a large part of the enemy military." Henrietta spoke.
"What did the captured soldiers have shared to us?" Shadow questioned.
"They relayed their info to us. These soldiers were forcibly drafted by a woman named Sheffield. From what I can understand, she is the de facto of Reconquista." Bowachi said.
"Are they certain of this?" Shadow asked.
"They are. The soldiers were aware of their actions. What's more surprising is what we found out. Sheffield is holding a copy of Andvari's Ring." Bowachi confirmed.
"That makes the situation more portentous... If that woman, Sheffield, is possessing such a dangerous item, then everyone must be under the ring's spell." Shadow realized.
"Not far off from the truth.
Your astute mind astonishes me to no end." Bowachi complimented.
"What about the spell on them? Did it wear off?" Shadow asked.
"Good news, it did. In any case, we need to focus on present circumstances. The enemy attempted to gather food supplies and flee from South Gotha. However, we were able to provide our part of the supplies." Bowachi said.
"A tactical retreat... However, with most of the troops stationed in South Gotha asleep, they had little accomplishment." Shadow noted.
"Yes, which is why there's a sense of hope along the people. Thanks to your efforts, we were be able to liberate South Gotha peacefully. Today is Silver Pentecost." Henrietta revealed.
"'Silver Pentecost... I assume this is an important holiday?" Shadow asked.
"Yes. This holiday happens once a year during mid-winter." Henrietta explained.
"Oh... Sounds similar to a holiday Saito and I celebrate." Shadow realized.
"What was the name of the holiday?" Louise asked.
"Happy New Year. It's quite fitting, seeing that one has lived for a year and celebrate the accomplishments from one's life trials." Shadow explained.
"Sounds exactly how Silver Pentecost is. Quite a fitting name indeed." Bowachi followed.
######
The town of South Gotha was bustling with a town wide party. Everybody was smiling, despite the ever present threat of war looming over them.
"Look at them... They're celebrating Silver Pentecost since Tristain shared their rations with them." Louise complained.
"Don't be so parsimonious. The enemy attempted to starve them and us to prevent our movement. Since less than half of the food rations in the town was taken due to lack of manpower, it's an acceptable moment." Shadow reassured.
"It's still an otiose time right now. When will the Plebeians realize this is a time of war?" Louise questioned.
Shadow sighed, along with Saito.
"Louise, we are all still mortal beings. Despite being gifted with power and connections to possibly any aristocrat and of the Royal Family, we are not gods." Shadow reasoned.
Louise stopped for a moment, finding what Shadow said oxymoronic.
'Says the boy with destructive power.' She thought, laughing.
"I can tell that you'll find my statement contradicting. I'm no deity, I never was. This power was naturally gifted to me since my 'birth'." Shadow spoke.
Louise immediately knew what he was referring to. She felt the need to apologize. Tiffania also felt depressed, knowing Shadow didn't want to talk about his past.
"I'm sorry, Shadow. War has led my mind to be overwrought." She replied.
"Do not let yourself down. I understand you feel frightful, but we all need to ensure these people continue to live." Shadow reassured.
"I understand... I too wish there was a time of peace. Let's go meet with Her Highness. She might have a mission for us to do." Louise spoke.
Shadow and the others nodded. They left the town via Chaos Control to meet with Henrietta.
######
Back at the Lowscythe Military Port, Henrietta was with General Bowachi, whom was standing near her. Agnès was at the back of the room.
"I heard of Shadow's recovery. I'm glad he and Tiffania were able to make it back in one piece." Henrietta spoke with relief.
"The boy has proven to be capable of extraordinary actions. Even before all of this, I'm glad to see he's willing to help us fight off Reconquista." General Bowachi agreed.
"He even helped find my purpose to live. I was so consumed in vengeance, he guided me back to reason. Thanks to that, he became someone whom can be supportive." Agnès followed.
"He will be instrumental in stopping this war with Reconquista. However, we also have to deal with the new threat in hand..." Henrietta said with a grim expression.
"Mephiles... The dark mind of the sun god Solaris." Agnès confirmed.
"That is indeed troubling... With a rogue deity on the rise, it'll make things difficult to handle this fight." General Bowachi agreed with a similar grim tone.
Soon, Group Code Zero arrived. Henrietta smiled, seeing Shadow fully recovered.
"Ah, you're all here. Shadow, Tiffania. I'm happy to see that both of you are in one piece." Henrietta said.
"Thank you, Your Highness." Shadow bowed.
(Play Sonic Adventure 2 OST - Strategy)
"I have a mission that will involve Saito and Louise, but for the others, you will need to await further orders. We also managed to recover the vehicle Shadow was piloting a day ago." Henrietta explained.
"The Tornado..." Shadow said.
"Yes. Can it still be operated?" Henrietta asked.
"I'm afraid the conditions of the plane prevent it from flying. It requires repairing for it to be operational." Shadow answered with a glum tone.
"That would delay some plans, but it won't hinder us." Silver said.
"You have a point Silver." Louise agreed.
"Nevertheless, today's the Silver Pentecost. We agreed with Albion to have a temporary ceasefire during the holiday. However, one mustn't lower their guard." General Bowachi explained.
"He's right. During the festivities, they attempt to perform a surprise attack." Shadow realized.
"Precisely the point. Thereby, we'd like you to scout at the capital, Londinium, acting as a spy to relay information to us." General Bowachi ordered.
"I'm well familiar of the town along with Tiffania. We haven't been here for almost a year, but it should provide an edge for us to sneak in." Shadow said.
"We don't want to raise any suspicion of us breaking the ceasefire. Thereby, our dragons from the Air Force must not be used. At the same token, you can't use your abilities." General Bowachi forewarned.
"The people of Reconquista know of my powers... It is best for us to stay on the shadows or lay low in the crowd to avoid attention." Shadow noted.
"Yes. That will work. If by chance you end up getting captured, you can use your ability to teleport back here." General Bowachi ordered.
"The Chaos Control... You have been plotting this if you know of what I can do." Shadow observed.
"The previous mission, in spite of circumstances, went well. You have scout's honor in this." General Bowachi commented.
"Espionage... We will succeed." Charlotte said.
(Strategy OST ends here)
######
Shadow was with Omega, repairing the Tornado.
"Omega, status report on the Tornado." Shadow said.
Omega began scanning the plane for any damages to be repaired.
"The turbine of the engine received shock damage from the landing. The left wing is also punctured. Flight capability is below acceptable means." Omega concluded.
"That means repairs won't be quick... Either way, the damage was mostly fixed, but I think I need a mechanics specialist for this to be fully repaired." Shadow noted.
He took out his communicator to contact Tails.
"Tails, this is Shadow." Shadow answered.
"Shadow, what's the matter? You sound pretty serious." Tails said.
"I have the Tornado with me, but it needs to be repaired. It suffered some damage due to a recent battle. Think you can have it repaired?" Shadow asked.
"I can have a look and see if I can fix it. Point the communicator to it so I can transport it to my workshop." Tails said.
Shadow did so. The plane was soon digitized into particles, flowing into the communicator.
"The plane arrived at my workshop, Shadow. You're right about its condition." Tails said, noticing some of the damaged sections.
"How long will the repairs take?" Shadow asked.
"It may take about a day or two. Is there a battle going on?" Tails questioned.
"There is a war happening. I may have to fight it with or without the Tornado's hell sooner or later." Shadow said.
"This is serious then... I'll see if I can fix it to the best of my ability." Tails said.
"Please do so." Shadow said.
"Got it. Take care, Shadow." Tails said, hanging up the line.
Shadow briefly looked at the dimensional communicator, surprised of its ability to transport items from afar.
"That might come in handy one day..." Shadow noted.
Saito and the others arrived to see Shadow, but without the Tornado in sight.
"Shadow, where's the plane?" Saito asked.
"I've sent it back to Tails to repair it. The communicator he gave me allowed it to transport items from afar." Shadow answered.
"You knew of this?" Silver asked in surprise.
"Just now, actually. Tails told me what to do, much to my surprise." Shadow said.
Everyone had a long sigh as the espionage mission didn't had any changes. Soon, General Bowachi came by to the group.
"A change of matter. Shadow, Tiffania. You two are our best leads across Londinium. Go with Saito and Louise to scout the town." The General ordered.
"Roger that. Luckily I know of a way to get there. First, we need to disguise ourselves." Shadow said, holding a large black robe.
Saito, Tiffania and Louise had their robes provided, courtesy of Shadow.
"Be aware that we will be in enemy territory. It's best not to raise any alert. Otherwise, the mission will be a failure." Shadow warned.
Silver and Charlotte felt left out since they didn't know what to do.
"You guys can sit tight and rest for now. We'll be back to talk more once this mission is over." Shadow reassured.
Raising his left hand, Shadow channeled blue Chaos energy and disappeared along with the people around him.
######
(Play Sonic Adventure 2 OST - The Base)
The group arrived in an alley within Londinium.
"This is Londinium... Let's keep a low profile." Shadow said.
Everyone nodded as they began walking normally. Tiffania felt nervous in doing so, having not been in a spy mission. Saito also seemed nervous as well.
"Keep your cool, everyone. If you start to show any signs of being nervous, the enemy will notice. Just keep calm." Shadow reassured.
The quartet sneaked their way through the town, careful not to arouse suspicion. Other than the occasional idle chatting, nothing was of interest about the enemy.
"This year's Silver Pentecost has been a nice time to celebrate, wouldn't you agree?" Male citizen #1 questioned.
"I would drink to that. A toast to celebrate a year that passes." Male citizen #2 replied.
The quartet remained quiet as they continued sneaking through the town. Shadow's wind powers were still active, allowing them to blend in the background without being seen.
(The Base OST ends here)
######
After much searching, the quartet looked exhausted patrolling the town. They couldn't find any details about Reconquista.
"I hate to say it, but it's a fruitless search." Shadow remarked with disdain.
"I'll have to agree, though it brings a sense of despondency..." Louise followed.
Soon, they noticed a small group of soldiers lead by a figure in a cloak. Getting a suspicious vibe, Shadow and the group followed them, concealed in presence thanks to the power of wind.
######
(Play Sonic Adventure 2 OST - Conquest)
Following the squad of enemy soldiers with the cloaked figure, Shadow and the others observed what they were planning. They heard the soldiers whispering to each other.
"So it comes to this... How will we exact the plan?" Soldier #1 questioned.
"Leave it to Sheffield for finding the solution. From what I understand, she plans to use a forbidden spell to turn the tide of the war to our favor." Soldier #2 answered.
"That never sounds good to hear that..." Soldier #3 remarked.
"Quit your whining and keep holding those shovels. We need to head to the target site near South Gotha." Soldier #4 ordered.
"That reservoir spring in the mountains? What kind of insidious plot is she planning?" Soldier #3 questioned with worry.
Shadow and the others were shocked on what they heard. Wasting no time, he teleported everyone away with Chaos Control to meet with Henrietta. However, the cloaked figure noticed the disturbance. It was Sheffield, whom also had the copy of Andvari's ring on her left hand.
'It seems that there was a listener of the plan. I'll have to move ahead of schedule.' Sheffield thought.
(Conquest OST ends here)
######
Arriving in the Lowscythe Military Port, Shadow frantically rushed with the others with him. They didn't waste any time for greetings to the fellow musketeer members or soldiers. Henrietta heard the sound of rapid footsteps while discussing with General Bowachi.
"Your Highness, this is an urgent matter we must discuss immediately!" Shadow said, showing rare signs of panic.
Hearing from Shadow's tone, Henrietta and General Bowachi immediately knew this was a serious matter.
"What's the concern for your hasty arrival?" General Bowachi questioned.
"The enemy intends to do something to the water supply of South Gotha. Whatever it is, I fear it may cause problems to our forces!" Shadow warned.
"Are you certain of this...?" General Bowachi asked hesitantly, not liking the news.
"I'm afraid all four of us, especially Hien, heard it from a squad of enemy soldiers in Londinium. I do not know what time they will commence their plan. However, we can't take any chances in risking everyone's lives. We have to warn the town and provide as much water as possible before something happens." Shadow explained.
"That is indeed troubling news. I'll warn everyone of this recent development." General Bowachi said.
"Please hurry. Time is of the essence." Henrietta ordered.
"At once." General Bowachi spoke before leaving.
"You have saved us a great deal in letting us know of a possible surprise attack." Henrietta said, proud for Group Code Zero's efforts.
"Let's hope my fears don't get the better of me tonight..." Shadow said, hiding his concern.
######
That night, Group Code Zero rented three separate rooms in an inn to stay at. They were all close by in case one room was compromised from enemy forces. Shadow and Tiffania were in their room. The elven girl looked with concern as Shadow stared at the sundown horizon. She could see he was internally panicking.
"Shadow? Is there something you want to tell me?" Tiffania asked, worried.
"I'm worried for everyone... Not just the town, but the people whom we all have seen depart to fight the war... Are they still living amongst us? I just hope the Rings of Life I've given them have not been wasted." Shadow said with concern.
Tiffania, knowing of his concern, stood up from the bed and hugged Shadow from behind. This made him look up, seeing Tiffania's arms encircle above his shoulders. He closed his eyes in a calm relief, having his mind focusing on the elven girl near him.
"I believe you were able to help them. You've done so much to protect our friends, even if it risks your life... I just want us and our friends to live in peace." Tiffania spoke.
Shadow held Tiffania's hands with a gentle touch. His eyes were closed with relief, feeling a sense of peace.
"Tiffania..." Shadow spoke.
The elven girl soon made Shadow turn to her. She soon kissed his on the lips without hesitating.
'I've done so much for our friends... I hope the time for peace comes after this war and the future battle that has yet to come...' Shadow thought.
Tiffania didn't stop her kissing with him. The couple made their way to the bed, holding each other close in a loving, passionate embrace.
######
The next day, Group Code Zero was walking within South Gotha. The time was reaching sundown. They felt uneasy, not knowing when the enemy will strike. They saw several troops holding large canteens of water.
"The plan to bring water in containers should suffice. If they need some, though risky, the snow should act as another source." Shadow said.
"That's right. Snow is technically frozen water. A decent backup since winter is still here." Silver pointed out.
"Yes, but Shadow did say it was risky. It depends on something." Saito noted.
"The depth of the snow, how fresh the snowfall was, traces of animals, and whether it was polluted or not..." Shadow listed.
While walking through the town, the girls overheard the boys talking.
"Why are they suddenly talking about water and snow?" Louise questioned.
"They said something about using the snow as a backup for a source of water." Tiffania answered.
"Powdered ice..." Charlotte said.
Louise realized as to why, seeing the soldiers with large canteens of water moving about.
Soon, the group encountered Siesta, whom was wearing her casual clothes. She turned and noticed Group Code Zero. In a bliss of joy, Siesta ran to Saito stopping directly in front of him.
"Saito-san!" Siesta spoke.
"Siesta!" Saito responded with surprise.
Louise had a jealous look on her face. She was soon patted on the shoulders, thanks to Tiffania and Shadow helping her.
"Saito and I were likely bound to have some admirers due to our actions. Know this that he still cares for you deeply." Shadow spoke in a calm manner.
Louise soon calmed down, knowing Shadow's words were true. The rest of the group listened on what Siesta was saying to Saito.
"Out of curiosity, why are you here in South Gotha?" Saito questioned.
"The academy in Tristain is under curriculum suspension. Plus, I asked my uncle if he can come over to this town since he does business here too." Siesta answered.
"Uncle...? Oh no..." Saito dreaded.
Everyone else in Group Code Zero were left with dread, adopting a brief, but noticeable expression. Their skins paled as they soon heard a familiar voice.
"Everyone~! I'm glad to see you all here!" The voice called out.
Zooming into view by running, Scarron arrived.
"Saito! Shadow! Louise! Tiffania! Silver! Charlotte! I'm glad to meet you all here!" He said with glee.
"Pleasure meeting you here, Scarron." Silver said.
Shadow immediately knew Scarron would complain. He was correct in his assumption when Scarron pouted.
"Forgive him, Mi Mademoiselle. He's still new to your business." Shadow said with a grandiloquent tone.
"It's okay. The young ones I can understand." Scarron responded.
"Funny thought, I had a feeling that you and Siesta were related. It just didn't seem to register till now." Saito noted.
"That's to be expected." Scarron revealed.
"Fair enough." Saito accepted.
"From what I heard, Siesta hasn't stopped talking about you, Saito." Scarron revealed.
Siesta had to hide her face, blushing in embarrassment. Saito was surprised on what he heard.
"She hasn't?" Saito asked curiously.
"Of course not. It seems like a one-sided confession though." Scarron said.
'Almost accurate enough of current circumstances.' Everyone in Group Code Zero thought.
"Plus, Jessica is here as well. She also came to help." Scarron revealed.
Shadow noticeably turned pale. His previous interactions with her made him slightly dreadful.
'As if my worst fears are coming...' He comically thought.
######
Within the Londinium castle, Sheffield was talking with the Commander of Albion's forces with several Sub-Commanders present.
"Surrender!? Have you gone puerile!?" The Commander questioned.
"We lost a great deal of our forces due to the battle in South Gotha. Even if we defend our main headquarters, we will not survive." Sub-Commander 1 explained.
"We should consider a possibility of surrender. Like it or not, we're in a very delicate situation. Plus, the rumored demi-god was sighted to be helping the enemy front lines." Sub-Commander 2 reasoned.
"The demi-god of Tarbles... This is indeed a troubling time. If that being is here, he could decimate us." Sub-Commander 3 followed.
"Because of our low numbers, we can't even stage an attack. This war is proving to be against us for I cannot shake off this feeling of agita within my mind." Sub-Commander 4 replied.
Sheffield noticed the changes of the people. She frowned, knowing it wasn't serving well. Walking outside, she began to ponder.
'This is proving to be a rather troublesome time... Not only is a feeling of impending matriculating to Albion about to happen, my master won't bode well with the news. No point in using this country anymore.' She thought.
######
Back with Group Code Zero, they were regrouped with Julio, whom was wandering around town.
"Fancy meeting you all here, Group Code Zero. Enjoyed the Silver Pentecost?" Julio asked.
"Not quite. We've been anxious for a while. There hasn't been any time for anodyne speeches for we are on high alert." Shadow said.
"I was relayed of the info regarding what Reconquista plans to do. It is indeed obstreperous if I have to agree." Julio confirmed.
"Situation aside, this is not a time for rest. We have to remain vigil since word of the enemy's sneak attack may happen." Silver noted.
"Truer words were never said. Let's head into the nearby tavern so we can discuss. I think I know where we can go." Julio suggested.
"An inn? Are you sure you're a priest or a military saint?" Shadow joked.
Julio laughed from the intended comedy. He didn't reply as he guided Group Code Zero to the tavern.
######
The sun was starting to set as the group spent some time in the tavern. Siesta felt slightly jealous to getting Saito's attention, due to how he was silently doting Louise.
"This is quite a one-sided love here." Scarron commented.
"I'll say, Siesta got himself a good looking man, if not, warrior." Jessica said.
Saito bashfully scratched the back of his head.
'I guess I'm popular, but it doesn't feel right to me...' He thought.
Jessica made a couple of flirting glances to Shadow, whom ignored them in favor of looking at Tiffania.
'When will he stop doting with that blonde girl? How did she get such a size that makes me look small?' Jessica thought.
Siesta soon leaned close to Saito, making Louise jealous.
'I may not have his heart, but I have some perks that can give me an advantage.' Siesta thought.
Saito blushed in response. Louise decided to prove she was his choice.
"Saito chose me through his own will. He didn't rethink his choice when I was receiving his love." Louise argued.
"How do you know if it's true?" Siesta questioned.
"I gave my word..." Saito revealed.
"Saito did so." Charlotte confirmed.
"I have to agree as well." Silver followed.
This made Siesta jealous, seeing Louise clinging on to Saito.
"I won't give up!" Siesta said, moving inside the tavern.
"Siesta!" Jessica said, reaching to her cousin.
Saito sighed in response, feeling the tension dissipate, but not fully. He registered Louise getting physically close, which reignited his tension.
'I really am regretting being popular...' He thought.
Soon, an unexpected squad of young men arrived in the tavern. Shadow instantly recognized the people.
"No way...!" He said with shock.
Everyone turned to see a familiar face with curly blonde hair arriving with several males in their high school academic years. All were aghast, not wanting to believe they seen a ghost.
"Guiche!" Group Code Zero said with shock.
The male named Guiche turned, surprised to see familiar faces.
"Saito! Shadow! Tiffania! Louise! Silver! Charlotte! Fancy meeting you all here." Guiche said with surprise.
"I could say the same thing. It's good to see you in one piece." Shadow said with relief.
"I would have to agree with that. Everyone in the academy was saved thanks to the rings you gave us." Guiche said, unintentionally revealing another fact.
Shadow heard the hint quite clearly. He found this somewhat relieving he was able to prevent their deaths.
"You guys were in the frontlines, weren't you?" Shadow asked, giving a slight ominous tone.
"Yes... We were in the frontlines. Most of us perished in the subsequent battles, only to be revived by the Rings of Life you gave us. When Tristain's forces came to find any survivors, they found us confused after we were resurrected moments later." Guiche explained.
Shadow was thankful he thought ahead of time. This made him feel a weight on his shoulders was lifted.
"Thank goodness... Those rings were made to revive the holder in case one was killed in a fight. Since the rings can only be used once, don't take this second chance for granted. I exhausted almost all of them." Shadow noted.
"Are they capable of being mass produced?" Guiche asked.
"It's not that simple. It's essentially making the innate energy of the Chaos Emeralds into a form of healing. This can be taxing to those who manipulate Chaos energy." Shadow answered.
"No wonder... This makes things a bit difficult." Guiche realized.
"Yes. Hopefully the war has taught you how life is, Guiche. It's not as what any normal person or a Noble for that matter could think of." Shadow spoke with a solemn tone.
"Yes... It was a wakeup call for me... I realized how fragile the world is, let alone life itself. Even though it is to protect our people, it is still murder..." Guiche said, frowning.
"A realization I've come to realize at a young time..." Shadow said, hiding his sight by looking away.
"I'm grateful that you provided the means for all of the male student body to be protected. Without your help, we most certainly would not come back alive. Even Reynald has spoken highly of you." Guiche explained.
"So he has? We share an interest that looks common, but it's a valorous concern." Shadow commented.
"Yes, I recall his interest back in the Academy. If anything, he's more of a brother than a friend when you have his trust." Guiche replied.
"That much we can agree." Shadow said.
"Indeed so." Guiche agreed.
"How is Reynald and the others doing?" Shadow asked.
"They're doing okay. Reynald has some minor injuries, but he'll pull through. The others were okay with relatively minor wounds." Guiche answered.
"I'm glad they're okay." Shadow said with relief.
Everyone else noticed the amicable aura from Shadow while he talked with Guiche. It felt welcoming, humble for the weary.
"Guiche has changed a lot due to the war. I'm glad he now sees with more of an open eye." Saito noted.
"You two were the ones that changed him. That alone proves one can see incredible times through journeys of life." A familiar voice spoke.
Everyone turned to see Julio. They were surprised of him holding several drinks.
"I decided to come to this tavern for a respite of the war. Lo and behold, I never thought to meet you here, Guiche." Julio said.
"A friend of mine helped the frontlines without the Tristain forces having any casualties. That alone proves how far one would go for everyone's concern." Guiche noted.
"I'm guessing that's Shadow who helped you all?" Julio questioned, looking at the boy in mind.
"Gee, I wonder." Shadow retorted.
Soon, Siesta came into view. She quickly hugged Saito, catching him off guard.
"S-Siesta...!" Saito exclaimed, aghast in shock.
Siesta was wearing a rabbit style bikini which accented her figure, complete with fur-like gloves that reached up her forearms. Everyone saw the display, unable to process what occurred.
"Who is cuter, Miss Vallière or me, pyon~?" She questioned.
Saito was unable to answer as he was still processing what he was seeing.
'W-what is Siesta doing...!?' He questioned mentally.
Louise soon felt jealous of Siesta attempting to seduce him. The rest of Group Code Zero watched with slight embarrassment on the scene. Silver was keeping his face away, having a small blush dusting his cheeks. Charlotte remained impassive but she held Silver's left hand possessively. Shadow closed his eyes and looked away in respect. Tiffania pouted till Shadow looked at her. This made the elven girl smile, seeing Shadow with a healthy blush on his face the moment his sight laid on to her.
"Oh my... Aren't we daring?" Scarron commented.
Siesta soon leaned forward, making her outfit accent her chest more.
"Who is it, pyon~?" Siesta questioned.
Saito couldn't make an answer as he was incredibly nervous. Being too close to Siesta made him like this due to inexperience. He closed his eyes to think hard as he was starting to sweat.
"It..." He stuttered.
Louise was now curious of Saito's response. She was awaiting his answer with anticipation.
"It's LOUISE...!" Saito screamed out.
Siesta soon felt left out, but Louise smiled with pride. The rest of Group Code Zero gave an accepting smile to Saito's response.
"Awww... That doesn't mean I will give up though." Siesta said, holding on to Saito's body.
Louise soon sparked with jealousy. She went to Siesta to confront her of her actions.
"What do you think you're doing!? After hearing his answer, you're still going that far!?" Louise questioned, pulling the rabbit ears of Siesta's outfit.
"No! I wanted Saito to be happy!" Siesta argued back.
Everyone watched the cat fight happening. The rest of Group Code Zero shook their heads while Scarron and Jessica cheered Siesta to fight back.
"Come on, you two. No roughhousing, but Siesta, fight hard." Scarron said.
"You can do it, Siesta! Don't give in!" Jessica cheered.
During the scuffle, Louise accidentally ripped the top of the outfit off. It was flung from the force of her swinging arm, which prompted Saito to dodge the incoming cloth. Upon turning to Siesta, he quivered. Soon, everyone was silent. The rest of Group Code Zero looked away while Guiche, Julio, Scarron, Jessica, and Louise looked at Siesta with shock. Her top was exposed and the maid wasn't aware of it.
'Why is everyone so quiet?' She thought.
She noticed Saito having a shocked expression. Briefly confused of his expression and where he was staring, she looked down. She soon realized her top was bare, causing her to blush bright red. Saito fainted from the shock.
"KYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!" Siesta screamed.
######
(Play Sonic Adventure 2 OST - Black Noises Revival)
Near the outskirts of South Gotha, Sheffield and her men were digging through a snow bank through using shovels. They soon found a large lake of water flowing within it.
"What purpose do you have in using the water?" The general asked.
"One third of South Gotha's population uses this lake as a source of water." She replied cryptically.
"Are you suggesting in poisoning the enemy...? Have you gone mad?" The general asked.
"Not poisoning... Something more insidious." Sheffield responded.
Before she could attempt to take her left glove off, a whirlpool of darkness manifested near her. From it, Mephiles appeared.
"So you intend to use magic to alter the fight to your advantage..." Mephiles deduced.
Sheffield and her men were on guard upon seeing the being of darkness.
"What madness is this? Are you the Demi-god of Tristain?" The general asked.
"You mean that boy named Shadow? No, I'm not. I'm Mephiles the Dark. I felt that woman's intentions on causing discord among her enemies and I would like to help you out." Mephiles explained.
"So you wish to help out. How do you propose in doing so?" Sheffield asked.
"I can add my essence in the water to summon my minions while the enemy is brainwashed from that ring you hold." Mephiles answered.
"You know of the magic from Andvari's ring?" Sheffield questioned in suspicion.
"I'm well informed of such. Shall we commence discord and chaos?" Mephiles replied.
"By all means..." Sheffield agreed.
The general watched in shock as Sheffield pulled her glove off with her teeth. The ring copy of Andvari's magic was shown.
"What are you...?" The general asked with fear.
Sheffield's forehead began to glow with runes in a purple light. They were written with the word Mjöðvitnir (ᛗᛁᛟᛞᚨᛁᛏᚾᛁᚱ). The gem on the ring soon brightened before melting and flying into the lake, causing it to shine. Mephiles added a ball of compressed darkness in the lake.
"You already know your role, General. Have the troops ready on my signal." Sheffield said, avoiding the question.
"This war must continue. I want my enemy to bathe in despair." Mephiles said, laughing demonically.
*Black Noises Revival OST ends here)
######
Back at the tavern, Siesta had her clothes on, but she was still red faced in embarrassment. Saito, reluctant after seeing Louise's jealousy, tried to console her to ease her thoughts.
"Comedy aside, I wondered how the all the male students from Tristain were able to survive. Those Rings of Life you mentioned were the cause, are they not?" Julio asked.
"Would it be better to have a soldier come back alive to protect us another day than leaving a dead one?" Shadow retorted.
"Fair enough. Still, your actions have indeed proven you are trustworthy for Tristain and Romalia." Julio said.
"Romalia?" Shadow asked.
"Perhaps if you have a map, I can show you where it is." Julio suggested.
Shadow unfurled the magic map to show the continent of Halkeginia. Julio soon pointed to the location, a peninsula, he spoke of.
"See that peninsula? That's the Ausonian Peninsula, where Romalia is." Julio said.
"Hmmm... Guess there are some parts of my world that look similar." Saito said, looking at the map.
"How so?" Julio asked with surprise.
"If that's Romalia, the current name of this country in my world is Italy. Before, it was the precursor of the Holy Roman Empire." Saito revealed.
"Oddly enough, Romalia is also called the Holy Romalian Empire. Quite a strange juxtaposition." Louise noted.
"There are many things that the world of Halkeginia has that are similar to our home. Some names, like Tristain or Gallia, were even mentioned in the distant past." Shadow revealed.
"Wow... I didn't know that your world had such surprises." Tiffania followed.
Saito and Shadow chuckled in response. Both had a sense of nostalgia talking about their former homes. However, seeing their respective girls, it made the boys yearn to one day see their homes with them.
"Anyway, since we have a great deal of our troops still surviving from the frontlines, the General offered them a break of fighting as respite." Julio said.
"Good reason, too. After being near death's door, how could one not cope with it?" Shadow replied.
"Indeed. We're grateful for you, Shadow, for providing the protection they needed in the war." Julio said.
"Think nothing of my actions. I would've done the same for my friends whom are in my world now." Shadow spoke in a humble tone.
"Always protective of his allies. I like that among friends." Saito said.
"I would do the same as well." Silver followed.
The boys smiled as they all had a brotherly bond. They soon bumped their fists in a triangle pattern, showing a hidden message to protect those they care for.
"As much as we want to continue chatting further, we should head back to our rooms. It's starting to snow out there." Shadow suggested.
"Yes, I agree. It's getting pretty late." Julio said.
######
Group Code Zero was on their way to the inn to sleep for the night.
"It was reassuring to see our friends in the academy still alive." Saito said.
"No mistake about that. Still, the war is not yet over... We have to focus on it once tonight is over." Shadow said.
"Yeah... It's a disheartening time..." Silver said with a somber tone.
Nearby, the group saw several Tristain knights sitting near a well, clearly inebriated.
"Man I drank too much." Male Knight #1 commented.
"Can't hold your champagne?" Male Knight #2 asked.
The group shook their heads. Meanwhile, Siesta came to Saito, running with her normal clothes to him.
"Saito!" Siesta said.
Saito was still feeling embarrassed moments ago from the tavern. Louise soon felt jealous, seeing the maid suddenly got up close to him.
"Can you please take me to your room? I want to talk with both you and Miss Vallière." Siesta requested.
Louise was just as surprised as Saito upon hearing her request. Curious, she decided to allow Siesta in their hotel room.
######
Inside the hotel, Saito was with Louise. Siesta was seen bowing on the floor, much to their surprise.
"Miss Vallière, I want to apologize but I have been developing feelings for Saito when he rescued me from Count Mott." Siesta started.
Louise remembered the time when Count Mott's mansion was destroyed due to Shadow's fury. It made her skin crawl just from recalling the memory. Focusing on Siesta, she exhaled.
"I won't deny that Saito's action have made you fall for him. But, I'll let you know that he belongs to me first." She replied.
"I know. Which is why I humbly ask of you for me to be a personal maid for him." Siesta proclaimed.
Louise and Saito paused for a few seconds. Both couldn't believe what they heard.
'Is she going as far as to become a personal maid just for me...? By Kami's will, I don't know how to process this...' Saito thought, aghast.
'A personal maid!? My family already have many maids and butlers in our own home, but never a personal maid... She's going this far to be with him...? Clearly she knows the meaning, but to do this for Saito's sake...? Curse the Founder for my bleeding heart...' Louise thought.
Louise made a heavy sigh. She soon came to a reluctant conclusion.
"Alright then... I accept, but do not attempt to steal my familiar away." Louise spoke with a reluctant tone.
"Thank you, Miss Vallière." Siesta said.
######
The inebriated knights were still laughing. Clearly unable to hold their alcohol, they resorted to using water gathered from the well than using the large jugs provided.
"Hah... This water from South Gotha can wash off the alcohol." Knight #1 proclaimed.
"I will drink to that." Knight #2 agreed.
Soon after drinking the well water, the knights began grunting before they soon began frothing from their mouths.
"My body...!" Knight #1 exclaimed.
Soon, their eyes began to glow in an ethereal purple color. A mental command was instilled in their heads.
"Kill the Queen. Oppose her order and kill the Tristain Forces." Sheffield's voice echoed.
The order was as though a trigger was pulled. The knights whom drank from the water sources soon became animalistic, following the mind controlling order from the copy of Andvari's Ring.
######
(Play Jordy Chanda music - All That Beautiful Memories)
Within the inn, Shadow was with Tiffania. They were within their romantic world, kissing.
"Shadow, when this war is over, can we continue to live in the future in peace?" Tiffania asked.
"We will one day. There will be conflicts that may require us and our friends to fight against. It's how mankind strives for peace that makes it worth achieving." Shadow explained.
The couple shared a deep kiss, breathing heavily from their blushing faces.
'Tiffania... Maybe I was truly given this chance to redeem myself and learn to value others. It was a blessing in disguise to be with you.' Shadow thought.
'I feel so happy to be with him... Every time my heart races, Shadow comes to my mind. I feel truly blessed.' Tiffania thought.
Memories of their first meeting surfaced in their minds as they recalled how they met in the cottage within the forest. Soon, they recalled meeting Twilight and eventually Danielle. Time seemed to slow down as they kept their embrace.
'The times we had together up till now... They were all worth being with her. I don't want to lose her for anything...' Shadow thought.
During the kissing Shadow subconsciously placed his left hand on Tiffania's stomach. He soon felt a foreign aura from within her, but it felt familiarly tied to him.
'This aura... It couldn't be...' Shadow thought.
Tiffania felt Shadow's hand on her belly. She gasped lightly from feeling his warm touch.
'His hand feels so warm... I want to continue feeling that warmth.' She thought.
(All That Beautiful Memories OST ends here)
######
Saito and Louise were able to process what they heard from Siesta, allowing her to be a maid for the Gandálfr.
"If Saito does become a Noble in rank, I wish to continue serving him. I just want to be with him as thanks for his caring personality." Siesta spoke.
"I understand, Siesta. Though I may question myself, I understand your intentions." Louise reluctantly answered.
Siesta smiled with sincerity, holding Saito's right hand. Louise, feeling slightly jealous, decided to hold his left hand.
"Just to make a reminder, he is with me. I won't mind your presence so long as you don't overlap your constant doting." Louise reminded.
During the brief comical time, the occupants began hearing a disturbance from outside. The people in South Gotha were screaming, running away from an unknown threat.
"What is with the people? Why are they screaming?" Siesta asked.
"I don't know, but we need to warn the others and take a look outside." Louise said.
"I agree. This looks problematic." Saito followed.
######
Shadow and Tiffania heard the screaming, interrupting their romantic time. They were outside, keeping guard of each other. Soon, he saw several knights of Tristain fighting whatever crosses their path.
"What happening...!?" Tiffania asked in shock.
Shadow could only stare in silent surprise. His face contorted with anger of the unknown threat and fear for the safety of the bystanders.
"WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON!?" Shadow bellowed.
Ending 2: Diamond - Alan
Note: Sorry it took me so long to finish this. Serious case of handling life, writer's block, and a lot of other stuff. I haven't given up on this fanfic, nor for the others.