Dateline, March 9th, 1205.
Class VII, Towa, George, and Angelica was seen walking to Trista station and Rean was there, looking at the blooming Lino Flowers.
"Welcome back, Rean." Alisa greeted
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Irriplaceable People)
Rean turn and see every one of his classmates,
"Welcome back." Elliot smiled
Machias chuckled. "What are you doing standing there?"
"It's not like you to wallow in nostalgia. Did the flowers get to you?" Jusis asked.
"You all came to see me..." Rean smiled.
"I had a feeling it would be that case." Crow said. "The Lino Flowers just startin' buddin' yesterday. Should be in full bloom... about a week."
Millium giggled. "Guess some of 'em couldn't wait!"
"I guess not." Rean sadden
Levi notice Rean expression.
"Is something wrong Rean?" Levi asked.
Rean shake his head and smiled. "Nah. Everything's is fine. It's good to be back, you guys."
Laura nodded. "Agreed. We're all so happy to see you again."
"You must be wiped out after all you did, though." Gaius nodded
"I'm fine, actually. It really wasn't that tough." Rean replied. "Still, did all of you really come out here just to welcome me back?"
Towa giggled. "Why wouldn't we?"
"It's not like we second years have any lessons to worry about this time of year." Angelica nodded
"Besides, I already had to come out here 'cause of Valimar, so I figured I might as well say hi to you, too." George added
"Teeechnically the first years are supposed to be in class right now, but I turned it into a self-study period instead. And that was only possible because everyone's favorite captain told us exactly when you'd be arriving." Sara explain
Rean sighed "Really now?" He sid before he turn to Celine. "It's nice to see you here, too, Celine."
"W-Well, don't think I went out of my way to be here or anything, but given the way you were acting when you left, I was a little worried about y-" Then she stop there and realized she almost said it. "I mean, I wasn't! Not at all!"
"I swear, you can't be honest with yourself, can you?" Hamsuke said he appeared in Levi's shoulder.
"There's nothing wrong with admitting you're concern. Or are you that much prideful?" Luka smirked in Levi's other shoulder
"Why don't you two shut it!" Celine hissed
Rean chuckled. "Still, thanks, everyone."
"So, what now? Going back to your dorm room for some well-earned rest?" Alisa asked
"We can carry your stuff for you if you want." Gaius offer
"No, no, I'm a student. You said that class is in session right now, right? I'm a student, so I might as well attend. I mean, I HAVE been absent for a month now." Rean answered
"Whoa, seriously? That's the first thing on your mind?" Crow frowned.
"Wow, you're no fun at all. I was hoping we could skip the whole class thing and get to the welcome back party." Sara frown
"I like that idea." Fie nodded
"C'mon! It's party time!" Millum cheered
"Am I the only one who cares about studying at this school?!" Machias muttered
Elliot chuckled. "Well, maybe we can hold the party tonight instead."
"Haha. In that case, we should probably head back to the academy." Laura agreed
And so they begin to walk to the academy as Levi walk alongside Rean and then they stopped.
"Hey, Rean." Levi turn to him. "I'm really glad that you're back."
"Thanks. I feel the same way." Rean smiled as they continue walking and then they turn and see Crow chatting with Towa, Angelica and George. "It's hard to believe that everyone is here..."
"Yeah... a lot has happened. So much has happen while you were away. Crow was... well, being Crow."
"Hahaha... Glad to see he hasn't change." Rean smiled. "Still... I'm glad to see him again."
"All of us too... and... we're very thankful... for what Bowser did." Levi smiled.
"Yeah, you're right. I need to pay my respects to him for all he's done for Crow... so... how is Crow doing besides slacking off?"
"I could tell you, but why not ask him yourself." Levi suggest
"I can't deny it." Rean chuckled as they begin to approach Crow. "So Crow."
"Hm? What's up Rean? Miss me already?" Crow asked
"Part of it yes. So... how is everything going for you?"
"Oh the same usual thing... but if you mean outside of it... well... a lot has happened. I don't know where to begin. But Bowser's army just expended."
"Expended?" Sara asked.
"Yeah. Bowser's army expanded their military monsters, and more human soldiers sign up to be his Koopa Troops. Bowser had me help train his troops, and I got my own personal horse for some reason. Still, she's a good one. I got my own Koopa Clown Car, what else? Oh, and Me and Morgs... let's just say things are going great between us."
"Sounds like Bowser is putting you on a ton of work, huh?" Elliot asked.
"Sort of. He give me the same thing like he did with Mona. Still, I really do owe the guy a lot for what he done for me." Crow smiled
"Yeah, we all felt that way. He maybe a villain, but he's not a bad guy." Angelica smiled
"Yeah. I hope one way we can find some way we appreciate him." Towa smiled.
"Well you can tell him how he feels if you get the chance to see him." Crow replied as they arrived at the academy.
(BGM ended)
Dateline, March 12th
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - The Warmth of Soaking One's Feet)
"Heehee, nice work, guys." Sara said. "You poor kids must be exhausted. Feels like all your other instructors are dead set on cramming your brains with as much material as humanly possible."
"That's an understatement." Levi replied. "I knew it's important for my education but…"
"I want to crawl in to a hole..." Fie moaned.
"Ahaha, you said it." Elliot said.
"Still, this is exactly how we wanted it." Laura added.
"Right." Gaius nodded. "They're doing it for our sake, so I don't mind it so much."
"There's no way we could cover everything in class, so it's sweet of them to give us the bullet points while they still can." Emma said.
"It's paying off for us in the long run, yeah, so we owe them a lot." Alisa added.
Machias sighed. "Forcing you to try and keep up with us is a little unfair of us though."
"Well, he does have his responsibility to be a national hero." Levi shrugged. "Still. I'm more concerned about you Rean. About your powers… and how you're taking this situation you been brought in… Not to mention you chose to continue to study at Thors…"
"It's alright Levi. This is to my benefit." Rean smiled.
"Sheesh, you're always a modest student aren'tcha, Rean?" Crow asked. "And here I thought this is your time to unwind, live a little even."
"I'm not exactly like you Crow. Like I said, it's for my own benefit. If I get all of this crammed into my head now, maybe I can even come out on top on next year's midterms."
"If you say so. Still, I like your confidence." Levi chuckled.
Emma giggled. "I wouldn't be surprised if you actually did it, though."
"He did came seventh in the midterms this year, remember?" Elliot smiled.
Rean nervous laughed. "I'm probably just being too optimistic."
Gaius shake his head. "Nah, I wouldn't say that."
"Heh. Guess we'll know for sure next year." Jusis said
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Suburban Town of Trista)
Sara clap her hands to our attention. "Anyway, tomorrow's the day you've all been waiting for, your next free day. I know you've got enough school work to choke a horse, but try to carve out a little time for your clubs and all that youthful jazz. The forecast for tomorrow is clear, blue skies, might be the chance to sneak off and get into some ooh-la-la with that special someone."
Levi frowned. "Really, Instructor? You HAVE to blow THAT out?"
"But she's not wrong, you know." Crow smirked.
"Ignoring Crow on that comment. Do you truly plan to teach us all by living your life as a shining counterexample?" Machias said.
"Spoken like a true lifetime member of the lonely hearts club, Instructor." Jusis added.
"Heeey. I'll have you know that there are PLENTY of guys who'd do anything for a 'private lesson' with yours truly." Sara responded.
"But if that many men are interested in you, how come you spend so much time drinking alone in your room?" Elliot asked
Levi couldn't help but covered his mouth and holding in his laughter.
"I think the polite thing to do here is just smile and nod." Gaius said.
"If you keep setting your sights on guys like Laura's dad, you might as well just buy a couple of cats and get it over with." Fie command.
"It does seem like she's fighting an uphill battle to find a good match." Laura nodded
Levi burst into laughter. "BAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! You guys are killing me! Ahahahahahaha!"
"Arrrrrgh! Now, look what you guys done!" Sara muttered. "Levi stop laughing! And Just you wait, guys! In two weeks, when you see the hordes of chiseled, elegant gents draped over me, we'll see who has the last laugh!"
With that, homeroom was now finished and Sara left.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Back to the Dorm)
"Time really does fly, it's hard to believe our last free day is tomorrow." Elliot said.
"Yeah. It felt like we still had more time." Alisa added.
"I know what you're thinking. But it just goes to show how much you use your presence time without realizing how much you're using." Crow said
Rean nodded. "For me, it feels like it's been ages since I last had one."
"Guess that would." Levi said. "By the way, how was Crossbell?"
"Well, it was okay, but I kinda felt very uncomfortable there."
Levi sighed. "Yeah, I thought so... After everything that happened. It must have been... difficult."
"To the people of Crossbell, we Erebonian's are aggressors. I can hardly imagine they would welcome us with open arms." Jusis sighed.
"That doesn't stop like it'd stop Lechter from living it up over there, though." Millium comment
Rean nervous laughed. "He did take me to a casino once, actually."
"A Casino?" Levi title his head. "Oh, that place where people gamble for money?"
"Yeah. He won so much, he might as well have been cheating."
"Shocking." Fie bluntly said.
"It always feels like people who like gambling REALLY like it, huh." Alisa sighed
"Well I can't speak for all gamblers but that's just how we are. We like to take some bold risk and that's that." Crow chuckled.
"Yeah, except the part you keep losing the bets when it comes to money Crow." Levi shot back. "Like that last horserace a month ago, you ended up losing-"
"Okay I get the idea!" Crow frowned as Rean chuckled.
"So does anyone have anything planned for our free day?" Laura asked. "Remember, It's the very last one, so make it count. We wouldn't want to end the day without regrets."
"True enough. Although, I wonder if I'd end the day regretting that it has to end in the first place if we made it too much fun." Gaius replied
"Like for me, riding all day." Levi wrap his arms over his head.
"Well, I'm gonna be with my special lady~ Just hope Bowser doesn't call in for a bad time." Crow replied
"I've got so much that I want to do, I'm not sure where to start. I know I want to attend practice, at least." Alisa nodded
"Same. I've gotta go taste test some new dishes for the Cooking Club, plus Kishe's has a new menu up, aaand..." Millium paused
"How many stomachs do you have?" Jusis sighed.
"Will you be helping the Student Council tomorrow, Rean?" Emma asked.
"That's the plan." Rean answered. "It sounds like Towa will finish handing all her work over to the others today, but they're bound to be busy. So I thought it'd be nice to take some of it off their hands whether they like it or not."
"Ah, Rean. Ever the reliable gofer." Machias said.
"Seriously, then again, you're Towa's little personal worker." Crow sighed
Elliot chuckled. "That's a very... you response."
"If there's anything we can help with, let us know, okay?" Alisa offered
Everyone begin to exit the classroom while Rean stayed behind a little longer. Just before he could go out and explore...
"Hey, Rean." Levi called out to him as he approached him.
"Oh hey, Levi?" Rean title his head. "I thought you were heading to the Riding Club with Jusis for a ride."
"I was planning but... that can wait." He answered and then wrap his arms around his head. "But I figured that... you might feel a little lonely. You have been through a lot. And there is some discomfort after a long journey back. If you like, we can stay here for a bit and have ourselves a conversation."
"Heh. Thanks."
And so the two of them begin to have ourselves a nice conversation. Until times pass and they begin to part ways for now.
A couple of minutes later...
"So much has happen, here in Erebonia... and now in the Mushroom Kingdom." Rean said.
"Yeah, our first adventure in the Mushroom Kingdom was joining the Mario Bros on their adventures. I was the last person to join, and I was on the desert." Levi smiled
"And after that, we discovered the Pokemon world, got ourselves some Pokemon. and return to Erebonia." Machias said.
"Then that situation with the Cross Tag Battle..." Elliot nervous laughed. "Then we went to a trip from the Kingdom of Fiore." Emma smiled
"Then Bowser taking over Peach's Castle, then it was Cackletta in the Beanbean Kingdom." Fie said.
"Then the best place to go on Vacation, Isle Delfino." Crow continues.
"Then that time machine incident with the Shroobs." Gaius continued
"And then literally outer space to stop Bowser and Eggman's conquest to conjure the universe!" Millium cheered.
"And then we made all the way here..." Laura smiled.
"Honestly... out of all the adventures we been through... I'm at a loss for words on which one is so memorable." Jusis smiled. "Everywhere we go... always captivating."
"On a hopefully unrelated note, what are we gonna do for dinner tonight?" Elliot asked.
"Good question." Levi hummed. "We could go eat at Kirches's or the Koopa Buffet, or I can cook us something."
"That won't be necessary." Sharon answered who was waiting for us outside the dorm.
"WHAT reason could you POSSIBLY have for being here?" Alisa frown
"The chairman gave me her permission to return to my former position as your dormitory's caretaker." Sharon smiled. "Which means, I am here to serve you all once more. There may only be a short time left until the end of the year, but I'll make sure you want for nothing during it. I've already started preparing your evening meal, so there's no need to go out and buy anything."
"Oh, well, how about that?" Rean nervous smile
"I'm fine with this." Fie comment
"We will gladly accept your offer." Jusis nodded
Levi chuckled. "Some things never change, huh?"
"Heehee. Sharon's cooking's better than whatever grub we could rustle up together, anyway." Millium said.
"How'd you managed to get permission from Mother in the first place, though? Weren't you helping to build the Reinford Group?!" Alisa asked in frustration. "I thought the company was getting so many orders in, it was struggling to keep up!"
"Now that Master Gwyn has returned to the company, everything is back in order." Sharon explain. "He and the chairman have been speeding through one task after another since he got back."
"Amazing... Absolutely amazing."
"So the formal and current chairman make quite a team, I see." Gaius comment.
"Huh? What're yu guys all gathered out here for-" Sara paused and see Sharon again. "Ugh. Why are YOU here?"
"It's a pleasure to see you, too, Lady Sara." Sharon smiled "I brought a bountiful supply of smoke oysters and sardines if you'd like a snack to accompany your beer. Would you like them alongside your dinner?"
"Ugh... Damn it... Yes..." Sara frowned
(BGM ended)
Dateline, March 13th.
Rean was looking at the Old Schoolhouse, remembering everything that was going on.
"Ah, there you are Rean." A voice called to him as he turn and see Peach, Daisy, Luigi and Mario approaching him.
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Forward, with Determination)
"Oh! Princess Peach, Daisy, Mario, Luigi!" Rean exclaimed. "I haven't seen you guys for awhile..."
"It sure has, how have you been Rean? You feeling okay?" Luigi asked.
"More or less the same. But what brings you guys here?"
"We thought we pay you a visit and check up on you." Mario answered. "After all... a lot has happen and we thought you might feel... uncomfortable."
"A little bird told us you're back after that mission. So how was it?" Daisy asked.
"Well, it's... uncomfortable for the most part." Rean sighed.
"I thought that might be the case... It really is a cruel thing to do..." Peach sadden. "But hey, if you ever feel like you needed to talk to, you know we along with everyone else."
"Thanks. I really mean that..."
"So this is where you guys are." A voice said and then appeared now was Bowser, Mona, Bowser Jr, Kamek, Aether and Paimon.
"Oh! Bowser, Junior, Mona, Kamek, Aether and Paimon too!" Rean exclaimed.
"Not just them either." Ragna said as he approached as well.
"Ragna!"
"Hey Rean. Sorry if we surprise you." Aether said. "We wanted to see if you're okay."
"I'm fine. I guess it's natural you all came to check on me." Rean sad smile.
"But Paimon is worried though... especially with the People of Crossbell..." Paimon trailed off. "And for Erebonia... So we decided to check up on things and to you."
"Were there any chances going on in Crossbell Rean?" Aether asked.
"Well, a lot. I have seen technology being moved here and there. Crossbell, Mushroom Kingdom, vendors from the Mushroom Kingdom move in... Oh, and several Pokemon are in Crossbell and Erebonia lately."
"Makes sense. But who knows what else might change." Daisy nodded.
"So what's doing on with each of your homes if you don't mind me asking?" Rean asked
"Well for the Mushroom Kingdom, nothing much. I have been making improvements." Peach answered
"Same goes for me in my Kingdom. I can't trust the word of that Chancellor. Kamek and Crow had some ideas against any of his spies seeking to get some information." Bowser cross his arm.
"Yeah, all of us are doing that just in case." Daisy nodded.
"I'm glad to hear that." Rean smiled.
"Aha! There you are." A voice called out and they turn and see Toval coming toward the group. "Didn't expect to see Princess Peach and the others here."
"Toval?!" Rean asked
"Long time no see." He winked.
"Yeah, tell me about it. What brings you here? Do you need me for something?"
"Nah, nothin' like that. I'm just in Trista for work I need Sara and Mitcht for, you see. I figured while I was here, I might as well come and see how things have been with you. Then I saw you, then Princess Peach and the others walkin' off here, wasn't sure if you guys were in the middle of something... but I thought what the heck, the perfect time to catch up and say hey, so... you know. Here I am." He answered as he look at the Old Schoolhouse."
"So what brings you here to this building?" Aether asked
"Well, I thought there was... erm..." Rean scratch his cheek. "Actually, it looks like it was just my imagination, so don't worry about it."
"O...kay?" Toval raise his eyebrow.
"Still, by the sound of it, the guild's been keeping you busy lately Toval. Has your workload lightened up at all?"
"Heh. It's relatively peaceful right now, yeah. It won't last, though. If anything, it's only going to get worse."
"Huh? Why?" Paimon asked
"I imagine this has something to do with Crossbell being annexed before the possibility on a full-on war. On the surface, things are calm down." Aether said.
"Yeah, and that's partly thanks to you, too." Toval nodded. "The only problem is, now there's no power out there at home or aboard capable of stopping him. And by 'him,' I mean our friend the Blood and Iron Chancellor, of course."
"Yes, that part is concerning." Kamek rub his chin. "That man is up to something. And whatever it is, it will not be good for all of our homes. To the public eyes, Only the Mushroom Kingdom has a good relationship so far. Yet in the shadows, there's been a lot of discord from behind the scenes."
"Yes... there have been some issues with that too. Of course, I'm against it, yet the Chancellor has been pushing hard to get what he wants. He's this close to breaking that agreement." Peach sighed.
"What is that man up too?" Mona wondered before notice Rean's expression. "Is something the matter, Rean?"
"Uh... It's nothing." Rean sighed. "Still, I'm sorry he's causing you guys some trouble..."
"Don't be. You know it isn't your fault." Mario shake his head. "Everyone... well... almost everyone in Smash is worried about you and worry about him. Even Master and Crazy Hand too."
"Also... you're thinking about "That" aren't you?" Mona cross her arm.
"That?" Toval asked.
Rean sighed. "You guys know me so well."
"Don't worry Rean." Toval said.
"About what?"
"Sara's told me more about what went down in that castle than she feels I need to know. I'm not privy to any details involving your private business. I can't pretend I haven't managed to fill in a few gaps, just from putting two and two together, though."
"Sorry, it's not like I don't trust you. It's got nothing to do with that. I've just got a lot of things I need to sort out in my own head first." Rean said
"It's understandable. But remember that we're here for you Rean." Peach said. "I know you're going through a lot right now. And only time can help with that regard, but it can only go so far. But remember that everyone here including those in Smash Bros Castle, and many others along the way are here for you."
"She's right you know." Toval smiled. "Oh, that reminds me, Rean? I know I asked you this before, but... you sure you wouldn't consider becoming a bracer? I really do think you'd be a natural. That you've got the physical strength goes without saying, but I think your mindset is right up our alley, too. The guild might kinda limited in what it can do here in Erebonia, but we do work all over the continent. I'm not sayin' leave everything behind and run, but it'd be a good chance to look within yourself and think things through."
"That IS true..." Rean said before he had a moment to think about the offer. "But I'm afraid I'll have to decline. It certainly seems to be a wonderful profession, judging by the work that you, Aether, Noel, Tsubaki, Makoto, and Instructor Sara do. But I feel like I should see the path I've chosen through to the end. I've got Valimar to think about, too."
"I had a feeling you'll say something like that." Aether chuckled.
"I did too." Peach giggled.
"Well, if that's what you want... It's a real shame, though. And here was me think' I'd be able to bring a promising rookie into the fold, too." Toval chuckled. "Eh, no big. We'll see if you change your mind come graduation. I'm not giving up on you just yet!"
"Haha. Well, I'm flattered." Rean nervous laughed.
"Ah, there he is." A voice interrupt.
"Huh. Now there's a familiar voice." Toval said as they turn and see Alfin, Elise and Claire.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - To the Irreplaceable People)
"Oh, looks who's here!" Paimon replied.
"Elise! Your Highness!" Rean exclaimed
"Wow. What'd we do to deserve this honor?" Toval asked as they approached.
"Rean, Toval, and everyone else too. It's wonderful to see you all again." Elise smiled
"I wasn't expecting you all to bere here." Alfin smiled
"What brings you out here?" Rean asked
"Well, when I spoke to you yesterday, you sounded a little despondent." Elise paused
"Which is what prompted me to tell her if she was that worried, she should come and pay you a visit!" Alfin smirked.
Rean sighed. "I can see why Elise would come here, but I'm surprised you decided to accompany her..."
Toval chuckled. "You've got to be two of the most fearless young ladies in Erebonia. Although with the third most fearless young lady in Erebonia as an escort, I'm sure you've got nothin' to worry about."
"I'm honored you would say so. It's good to see you again, Toval." Claire smiled
"Likewise. We're not exactly on the same side these days, but there's no need to let that stop us from being friendly off the clock."
"I'd like nothing more, honestly." Claire nodded before she paused. "Oh, and I..." She paused as she and Rean avoiding looking at each other. "Umm... I-I assume you, my accompanying them was purely by coincidence.
"Oh, I know..." Rean sighed. "If anything, I'm the one who's putting you out, I seem to be the reason they came here, after all."
"Heh. I never once thought you were putting me out, so don't worry. I did wonder whether it might be best to stay out of your sight, truth be told."
"Please, don't think like that! I was the one at fault, not you!" Rean exclaimed before they both paused then had a light laugh. "I really am sorry, though. I was being so childish."
Claire shake her head. "Not at all... If I hadn't been so self-righteous. I'm truly sorry."
"Sounds like something heavy was going on between those two." Paimon whispered.
"I'll say. What's that all about?" Junior asked.
"Best to leave it at that, Young Master." Kamek whispered.
"But it looks like another formidable foe has enter the fray." Alfin whispered.
"Y-Your Highness, please!" Elise whispered and exclaimed
"That guy is popular with the girls, isn't he?" Daisy whispered.
"Oh yes." Peach giggled as she whispered.
"Rean, I swear, you're a damn magnet for trouble when it comes to women." Toval chuckled as he whispered.
"Hehehe, then again, I can relate." Aether whispered as he chuckled.
"If anything, I say his admirers just keep coming and coming." Mona whispered.
"Well, this certainly is a surprise." Levi said as he approached the group.
"Oh, hello, Levi." Alfin greeted.
"It's been a while, Levi." Elise added.
"Yeah, it's been some time since we met, Your Highness, Elise. Mario, Luigi, Peach, Bowser, well everyone." Levi replied. "If you're wondering why I'm here..."
"You sensed it too, right?" Rean asked.
"I did. I bet the old schoolhouse is involved, there's no way I'm ignoring that."
"Well, this sure is an odd place for everyone to be hanging out in the middle of the day." A certain kitty said.
"Well, that's probably because when something unexpected happen." A certain hamster said.
"It draws the crowds' attention." A certain slime replied
Everyone turned to see Celine, Hamsuke and Luka who showed up.
"Oh hey, Celine." Rean said.
"Hello Hamsuke, Luka." Levi added
"Celine, Hamsuke, Luka!" Alfin cooed. "Oh, how I've longed to pet that glossy black fur again! And play the adorable hamster and slime!" Alfin approach them and picked them up,
Celine sighed. "You're never going to give this up, are you?"
"Doesn't look like it." Luka replied.
"Aww, who can blame her?" Hamsuke giggled.
"I thought something felt odd over here, but I guess that's because of you guys." Celine said
"Yeah, I sensed something strange earlier, so I-" Levi then got interrupted when the bell at the old schoolhouse went off again.
(BGM ended)
"How?" Rean said.
"It can't be..." Levi blinked.
"Is that the Old Schoolhouse's bell?" Claire asked
"Wait, didn't Sara say that the last time this rang?" Toval asked.
(Trails of Cold Steel - Silent Exhalation)
Suddenly, the old schoolhouse began to glow as it rang a few more times.
"What in the world?" Peach asked
"Wah! The building is glowing!" Luigi exclaimed
"Celine, this is just like before." Rean said.
"Yeah, this is obviously serious." Celine agreed. "Unlike the last time, however, there doesn't appear to be any kind of barrier around it."
"And it look like everyone who heard it has come." Levi replied as he turn and see the rest of Class VII arrive along with Sara, Morgan, Lissa, Towa, George and Angelica arrived at the scene.
"What in the world?" Machias asked.
"It's just like the first night of the festival." Gaius said.
"Rean, Levi, what's happening here?" Alisa asked then see everyone else. "Wait. Elise? Your Highness? Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Daisy?"
"Bowser?, Kamek, Junior? What are you and the others doing here?" Crow asked.
"Even Aether, Mona and Paimon too." Fie added
"Whoa! Claire and Toval are here, too?" Millium asked
"What's going on here?" Elliot asked
"Do my eyes deceive me? Are all three of the fabulous fifteens and the lovely ladies from the Mushroom Kingdom here in one place?!" Angelica exclaimed happily.
"For crying out loud Gelica..." Crow sighed
George sighed. "Way to keep your priorities in check, Angie."
"Whoa... freaky..." Lissa said.
"Seriously..." Morgan nodded
"What's happening here, Celine?" Emma asked
"Don't ask me, I just got here." Celine answered
"Rean, Levi, can you tell everything you know?" Towa asked.
"I think we all need to be apprised of the situation." Instructor Sara added
Rean and Levi then explained to everyone that this was all of the sudden. Since there was no barrier, So they decided to head inside and find out.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Phantom Glimmer)
Once everyone arrived, they enter something that is far unexpected. They arrived at a massive open outdoor area with a large tower in the middle.
"What happened here?" Alisa asked
"It doesn't look anything like the inside of the old schoolhouse." Jusis added
"It's changed form many times in the past, but at this point, it no longer even feels like we're inside a building." Laura replied.
"The strange rumors about this place were around even when I was a student, but I never pictured anything like this." Claire replied.
"When was the last time it changed?" Toval asked
"A while ago. The last time anything this extreme happened was when the seventh floor opened up." Sara answered
"S-Still, that was underground, right?" Towa asked "This is the first time it's happened above ground, I think." Towa trailed off.
"Yeah. There's no sign of that door with the elevator inside, either." Angelica nodded
"It's like all someone did was snap their fingers and the whole interior was changed in no time flat." George said.
"Hmm... is it rather interesting." Kamek said as he rub his chin. "If I have to wager... I think this is some sort of... different dimension."
"I think Kamek might be right." Emma sighed. "I tried looking into it with my clairvoyance, but I'm afraid even that wasn't enough to tell us anything."
"Nothing feels particular off to me, either." Celine nodded
Emma look like she was doing something but sighed. "I tried, but even my clairvoyance isn't enough to tell us anything."
"Nothing feels particular off to me, either." Celine added
"Well, if you two can't work anything out, the rest of us sure won't." Fie said.
"But we can't exactly just leave and pretend we didn't see anything." Machias stated
Rean had an idea then he did that stance to summon Valimar.
"Gonna try and see if Valimar knows anything?" Sara asked.
"Yeah..." Rean nodded. "Heed my call... Valimar, the Ashen Knight!"
Valimar appeared shortly.
"Valimar, do you understand anything about the situation we're in?" Rean asked.
"We witches only know half the secrets concerning the Divine Knights." Emma replied
"But you're one yourself- maybe you know something?" Celine asked
"Hmm, my memories have yet to fully return." Valimar responded. "But what I can confirm is that this place was created by the gnomes."
"What are these Gnomes you guys are talking about?" Mario asked.
"The Gnomes are a clan of artisans. They are the ones who help created the Divine Knights." Emma explained.
"They also were responsible for creating Spirit Shrines. A Shrine that holds Zemurian Ore. The rarest, magical, and strongest ore in Zemuria." Levi added
"Not only that. They're said to have worked with the Hexen Clan's ancestors 1,200 years ago in order to accomplish something." Emma added
'Ah yes... that...' Aether thought.
"That is correct. Some of their finest technology is gathered in this place. The creation of a large-scale phase space, the expansion of flexible materials. As well as the development of the 'trial' system."
'Phase Space... interesting...' Kamek rub his chin.
"Like the trials all of us overcame earlier this year?" Alisa asked.
"And presumably, the same ones Dreichels the Lionheart and the Lance Maiden overcame before us." Laura added
"It must be. Crow was supposed to have overcome one under Ordis, too." Rean nodded.
"That's right. Hard to believe that was only 4 years ago." Crow nodded.
"Tell us everything you know Valimar. Why did the gnomes make a place like this, to begin with? Why seal away the Divine Knights and make us overcome trials to obtain them? And what's happening here right now?"
"I have lost the knowledge with which to answer your questions. However, the key to all is known as the Great One. The first to be born, and the last to stand." Valimar answered.
"The Great one?" Junior asked.
"The Great One, huh?" Rean touch his chest.
"The first to be born, and the last to stand..." Jusis hummed
"I feel as though I've heard those words before..." Emma said.
"Ugh... I'm sure it would mean something to Vita and the elder, but I'm clueless." Celine muttered
"Furthermore, the entity you fought during the jet-black trial you overcome... is none other than the shadow of the Great One." Valimar continue.
"That huge thing?" Fie asked.
"Hmm... I feel like something's clicking into place in my head, but not really..." Millium trailed off.
"Still, if what happened here before was a trial for us to overcome, is what happening now a trial as well?" Rean asked
"Most likely so." Valimar answered. "However, this is not an official trial were intended to complete. I suspect some disturbance triggered activation of a different trial, resulting in the current turn of events."
"Let me get this straight. This is all related to the truth behind what happened 1,200 years ago, right?" Angelica asked.
"We've gotten ourselves wrapped up in something that's truly out of his world, haven't we?" Alfin added.
All of Class VII nodded in agreement.
"Wait! You aren't all thinking of..." Elise paused
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Reverie Corridor)
Sara sighed "You're gonna try and get to the bottom of this, aren't you?"
"You know us so well." Levi answered.
"Yes. It might sound strange, but this almost feels like a continuation of the first night of the festival" Rean nodded
"And by coincidence, this also happens to be our final free day." Laura added
"I think we can all agree that we have a duty to see this through." Alisa said.
"And we'll be sure to do so by the end of the day." Machias added.
"I doubt it will compare to the trials we faced in that Infernal Castle, but it should prove interesting nonetheless." Jusis nodded
"Ain't that the truth." Crow chuckled.
"Haha..." Toval rubbed his head. "Like there was even a point in asking, Sara."
"I do believe we should be acting a little cautious." Claire said. "But where do you even prepare for a situation like this?"
Sara nodded. "Well, if you all insist, but we're coming, too!"
"You will? That would be a huge help." Rean replied
"It would certainly make our investigation easier if you were with us." Gaius nodded
"You guys rock." Fie smiled
"Yeah, you're all super strong!" Millium added
"Sharon, is that you I'm sensing?" Levi asked as he turn and everyone look completely surprised to see Sharon.
"Heehee. Whatever do you mean, Master Levi?" Sharon smiled. "In any case, I would be more than willing to assist you as well."
"Sharon!?" How long have you-" Alisa exclaimed
"Can you maybe stop doing that thing with the skulking around in the shadows and popping out at the last minute?" Instructor Sara sighed
"Oh, Lady Sara, I did nothing of the sort. I only arrived mere moments ago." Sharon smiled
Towa sighed. "Why are all of you always like this?" Then Towa look with conviction. "Right! Okay! This time, I'll be coming with you all to make sure you don't push yourselves too hard!"
"B-But-" "This is our final free day, too, you know." Angelica stated as she interrupted Rean. "We want to make it one to remember as much as anyone else."
"I'll stay here and back you guys up. If you need anything, just say the word." George nodded
"And that include us. Wouldn't you agree you guys?" Peach turn to Daisy, the Mario Bros, and Bowser and his team who nodded
"And that counts me too." Lissa nodded
"There's no way we're missing this out." Morgan said.
"Yeah, that goes for us too." Paimon nodded
"You can count on me." Aether nodded
"Well, I got nothing better to do so why not." Ragna shrug.
"Thanks." Elliot smiled
Emma giggled. "We appreciate it."
"Well, if everyone is joining in on the fun." Alfin said.
"The two of us would like to assist you as well." Elise finished.
That surprised nearly everyone.
"Your Highness, I'm not sure..."
"Please don't try and stop me, Captain." Alfin cut Claire off. "This academy was founded by one of my ancestors and as a member of the Arnor family, I hardly feel that I can turn a blind eye to what is happening here." She then got out a staff with a crown shape at the top. "And besides, I just so happened to receive this wonderful gift from my brother."
"That's one heck of an Orbal Staff. But it look different from the one Elliot and Emma use." Levi replied
"Hold on a minute. Isn't that the Epstein Foundation's latest model?" Toval asked
"The Epstein Foundation?" Sara asked
"Weren't their staves the original model for the ones we've been testing here?" George asked
"Heehee. Well, you're half right. It isn't just the Epstein Foundation, but also Gadd Science Corporation, and Atlas technology. And My brother used his connections to get it for me." Alfin answered. "It has some very interesting tricks~. And it's been adjusted especially for me, so I have no problems using it."
"Whoa, Professor E. Gadd and Atlas?" Alisa asked. "Now I'm curious what does it do."
"A member of the Arnor family using a specially adjusted orbal staff should be quite formidable." Sharon comment.
"Yeah, I can see her being a real force to be reckoned with using it." Celine agreed
"And not just me either." Alfin giggled as she got out not one, but three Pokeballs. Toss them and came out was her Eevee.
"Eva!" Alfin's Eevee respond. then a Ralts as it cooed, and a Dratini.
"Hey look at those two." Fie comment.
"Where did you had time to find new pokemon?" Levi asked.
"Oh, I found this adorable little guy on my way to St. Astraia. And I found a injured Dratini by the water so I nursed it back to health. He became so attracted to me so I couldn't help but accept it as one of my partners." Alfin smiled.
"Naturally, if Her Highness is going, I will be accompanying her." Elise said. "And I'm afraid that nothing you say is going to change my mind."
"Buuut-"
"Don't fight it, Rean. Nothing you say will change her mind. It's almost embarrassing to see you lose against Elise every time." Levi smirked. "And if you're that worried, why don't you take her along so you can keep an eye on her instead?"
"All right, I get it..." Rean sighed.
"Oh and speaking off." Elise said as she pull out three Pokeballs instead of two. Then came out are her Pokemon. A Bayleaf.
"Bay!" Elise's Bayleaf
Then her Gloom.
"Gloom." Elise's Gloom said.
And finally her Beldum.
"Bel." Her Beldum said.
"Oh, your pokemon evolved! Wait, when did you get another pokemon?"
"This is Beldum. I found it while I was picking up a few things." Elise answered.
"Well... okay... As Levi said... it's pointless to get you out of it." Rean sighed before he look at everyone. "Class VII, and everyone else kind enough to aid us, our final mission is to investigate and resolve the strange situation here. This is our- Class VII's-final trial. So let's give it everything we got!"
Everyone cheered in response. They begin to taken the elevator and arrived at area where the background was yellowish background like the earth element. As they continue, they encounter monsters and begin to engaged launching several hacking and slashing. But with everyone here. It ended quickly. they begin to find an elevator and the reached a checkpoint on the 4th floor. A monster that looked like a giant Hippo was waiting.
"Hey isn't that the Cryptid we face back in Garrelia Fortress? Levi asked.
"Yes, I remember how difficult this Crypids was when we faced it." Instructor Sara nodded
"What are Crypids?" Ragna asked.
"They're very powerful monsters from a different plane. In other words, a different dimension. They're really dangerous, so be careful with them." Celine explained.
"So we have to go though this giant size monster huh? It's no different from taking on a Demonic Beast." Claude said
"Ha! Good, more tough monsters we fight, the stronger we'll be." Bowser crack his fist.
"Yeah!" Junior smirked
"Defeating this monster could be part of the final trial." Rean answered. "I'd prefer to try and defeat it with everyone at my side if I can."
Levi put his hand on his shoulder. "Oh Rean, you know we'll always have your back for moments like this."
"That sounds fair to me. This is our trial. We should try to overcome as much as we can together. I would prefer to test my strength." Laura said.
"Right, shall we?"
(BGM paused)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Hertoromorphy)
Seismic Monstrosity - Volglyph
Everyone charged at the giant hippo. Emma cast Crescent Moon while the rest of them begin to attack. Alfin use a special Craft to support them while the Cryptids launched a slam onto them as they attack it. The giant hippa roared and then cast a powerful Earth Arts onto them but they were all protected from the Arts reflector. Emma cast that again while Bowser launch a powerful fire breath attack while Junior paint slash it's face and stung it. While Peach toss Mario into the air and shoot a massive Fireball on it's back, Luigi use Thunderhand on the ground where it was.
Volgylph let out a roared as he stood on it's feet and attempted to launch a powerful earthquake stomp. But Daisy and Angelica let out a powerful Punch on it's guts, temporally stun it while Ragna let out several powerful slashes onto it. Aether le tout several slashes combining it with Levi as he use Penetrate Throw. Laura launched a powerful blue slash on it. And then Elise launched an elegant slash technique on it as Sara use her Craft and launch lighting bullets at it. The Cryptid cast arts but it was reflected back at it. Soon it roared. Jusis imbue his sword with light as he warp several area to strike, giving Machias the chance to shoot several bullets towards it's face. Fie warp slashes, Laura slashes, Kamek and Mona's magic attack and Elise's and Alfin's pokemon to use their Pokemon moves, Magical Leaf, Moonblast, Tackle, Shadow Ball, Psybeam and Dragon Tail. Before it can strike, Claire shoot orbal shots while Crow let out cross slashes towards it and Byleth swift whip slashes, causing Volglyph to explode into a purple light.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Reverie Corridor)
The barrier preventing us to use the elevator is gone.
"All right! Noe let's keep going." Rean command
"I'm gonna have to be careful. At this rate, you'll be stronger than ME." Sara comment.
"Haha. Thanks. That means a lot."
"Teehee. I'm going to have to become a whole lot stronger if I want to set a good example for my country's people." Alfin giggled
"But you had to admit. This is a strange place, don't you think?" Levi asked.
"Yeah." Rean nodded. "All the elements seem to manifest really strongly in here, and then there's the fact it changes its layout every time we enter. It's hard to believe we're still within the old schoolhouse."
"You're right about that."
"The Spirit Shrines were just as strange... Perhaps many of the gnomes' structures are unusual in some way." Emma comment
"That Cryptid was a lot stronger than any of the ones we face during the war, too." Celine added
"The Gnomes craftsmanship is a sight to behold. It's beyond modern Technology... Well, here in Zemuria at least." Levi nodded
"Well, I think I might've figured out the laws governing this trial." Rean said. "As long as we keep going like we have been, we should eventually reach what's causing all this to happen. Let's keep it up!"
Laura chuckled. "Then let's go onward!"
They traveled the elevator to the fifth floor and repeated the same procedure. This one is the wind element. As they go through the same route from the previous floor, defeating monsters and climbing up. They found the elevator and arrived at the eighth floor where a second cryptid appeared.
"This one looks like the one back in Lunaria Nature Park." Levi replied.
"Which means we have to be careful. Be on your guard, everyone!" Rean command
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost Hertormorphy)
Sacred Beast Heidrun
Levi and Rean buff everyone with their Crafts and then Crytpid launched a head attack to suck on everyone's HP and they dodge but some got hit by it. But they begin to charge and attack while it begin to launched a stomp attack and head attack. Mario use Firebrand and shoot fireballs at it's face, causing it to roar at him, allowing Alisa to shoot several fire arrows towards it's body. Sharon let out a powerful strike, follow up with Steel wires attack. Heidrun stomp the ground as almost everyone dodge it. Before it can get up, Bowser jump into the ait and then Bowser Bomb causing it to roar while Alfin, Emma, Alisa and Jusis cast powerful Orbal Arts onto it as Bowser jump off. Altair Cannons and Claiomh Solarion were cast into it.
Claude launch an arrow and then backflip and shoot another one while Elliot swirl his Orbal Staff and summon magic circles and shoot projections towards. While Sara let out some hacking and slashing before backflip and shooting lighting bullets. Heidrun let out a spin attack towards everyone and knock some back. Airgetlam change into a hammer and Millium grab it, charge towards hit and then give a powerful hammer bash towards it, then backflip to avoid the stomp attack then fire laser at it. Gaius zoom letting trust attacks combo, then follow up with his S craft Twin Cyclones. Daisy and Peach leap into the air and then both let out a dive attack with a crystal kick and a Heart kick. Heidrum launch it'd tongue towards them to suck it's health. But Junior got in the way by blocking it but also placing paint on it, causing it to screech as it tried to remove the paint.
Elise launched an elegant flower strike. Soon Levi use Wave of Neptune while Sara launched a purple lighting attack on it and the Cryptid launched it's tongue onto the ground but they dodge. Rean let out hacking and slashing with Mario let out some punches, causing Heidrun to jump and turn his body, forcing everyone to backflip as dodge. It begin to Cast Orbal Wind Art: Ragna Vortex onto everyone as they got attacked. However, Alfin use her Craft to heal everyone along with Elliot. Laura launched a powerful swing attack. Rean flame dragon attack, Levi Supercell Plunger, Crow's Criminal Edge and Ragna scythe combo slashes cause the beast to be pushed back. Soon Laura use her S craft on it and then it begin to explode in a purple light with a critical strike.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Reverie Corridor)
Everyone put away their weapons as they can see the barrier is done.
"Those Cryptids are no joke. Thank goodness for encountering something similar to our advantage." Levi sighed.
"I'll say." Aether nodded then paused as he notice Class VII paused "Is something wrong?"
"Haha... Oh, it's nothing." Rean nervous laughed.
"There appear to be many challenges still awaiting us in here." Laura replied
"But even knowing that, I don't feel worried or nervous at all."
"Yeah. No matter how many we face. We always came out on top." Levi nodded.
"I feel more than ever that every experience we've shared as a class and the rest of you, good and bad, has become a part of us and made us stronger." Rean smiled
"My time in Class VII has allowed me to find a new me that I didn't even know existed." Emma smiled
"I'm glad for that, too." Celine nodded
"Hehehe, we feel the same." Peach smiled.
"I guess it's not bad fighting alongside you." Bowser said. "Well, when the situation calls for it."
"No doubt the moment we overcome this, we will always prevail. So long as we are together, nothing will keep us at bay." Levi smiled.
"Yeah. If we make use of everything the eleven of us... no, the thirteen of us have gain as a class, we won't lose to anything!" Rean said
Crow chuckled. "Jeez... look at you guys."
Sara chuckled. "I really couldn't wish for a better class. Well, keep it up. Just don't try and rush, and take things one step at a time. This will be your final achievement as a class. Make it count!"
"Right!" Class VII nodded
Everyone begin to head to the next area and the area color this one is water. Just like before, they continue to the next set of floors were the same and we encountered a third cryptid on the twelve floor.
"And we found another Cryptid." Mario said.
"All right, let's kick this things ass!" Daisy crack her fist.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Heteromorphy)
Fallen Lizard - Lindaum
Levi and Rean buff everyone with their crafts and then everyone else charge in and then the Cryptid launched a poison breathe attack but they dodge and counter it as we launched powerful attacks on it. Peach pull out a Fire Flower and then charge up a fireball while the others just attack it. Towa and Claire shoot it while it tried to smack them with it's tail, Elliot being to channel power and then he fire magic beams toward the cryptid, then Laura and Gaius let out more hacking, slashing and rapid trusts attacks while Bowser let out some powerful ist attacks towards it's body, knocking a few feet, then Crow toss his Double Saber into a boomerang while Morgan cast Valflame. Elise let out rapid trust and then a blossom strike. While Rean and Jusis let out more slashes toward it's legs. Then Kamek send out fireballs at it.
Then Lindaum let out a roar, causing a poisonous shockwave to push everyone back. Well except for Elise's Beldum who just Tackle on it. Fie zoom towards it with Sara and Sharon. Toval begin to cast several arts at the same time toward Linaum, causing some devastating damage. Laura then use her S craft on it, While Luigi jump and hammer rit's head as he backflip, giving Peach the chance to launch the powerful fireball and cause it to push back a few feet. Angelica charge her fist before she zoom and let out a powerful punch on it's gut.
As Alfin and Elise's Pokemon team launch their attacks on it. Everyone charge in and let out a devastating assault on it. It tired to bite us but Levi let out a powerful swirl slash, causing the attack to fail while Lissa imbue her Axe with lighting and then she jump and then let out a powerful downward slash, causing several electricity to strike at it.
It begin to bring out spore onto us but Levi and Gaius use their Glaive and Spear to make a tornado to blow it away on whatever parasite attack. Then Morgan cast dark magic and summon several orbs and strike all around it and then fire a powerful dark magic attack, causing the cryptid to explode into purple light.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Reverie Corridor)
"And that makes number three." Levi said.
"We're making good progress here." Rean nodded
"How does the layout of the area keep changing itself every time we go outside?" Sara wondered
Rean turn to us. "Valimar said that even this was a trial to overcome. And a different one from the trail we have to overcome last time we were in here."
"That does beg a question" who set it, and why?" Celine hummed
"Unfortunately, I don't have the answer for this." Levi replied
"I imagine it relates in some way to Divine Knights and their Awakeners, but I can't be sure." Emma said.
"It may relate to Emperor Dreichels too." Alfin hummed. "My brother's researching why Arnor blood caused the Vermillion Knight to go berserk, but he's hardly scratched the surface."
"This trial may contain answers to some of many mysteries surrounding the Lance Maiden, too." Laura nodded
Levi thought. "Still, whatever the purpose may be. This place is too complex and carefully designed to not have some kind of purpose."
Rean sighed as he scratch his head. "If only we had more information. As it stands, our only hope of getting any more is to keep right. You guys ready to get going? The enemies will probably keep getting stronger from here on, so stay on guard!"
Everyone nodded and then keep moving forward. The next floor which is red this one. Which means fire. Just like before. Everyone made their way to reach the sixteenth floor. And now found our Fourth Crypid.
This was the same by the time we reached the sixteenth floor and eliminated the fourth cryptid.
"A dog cryptid?" Junior asked
"No, it looks more like a wolf." Lissa shrug.
"Well, whatever it is. Let's get this over with." Crow said.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Heteromorphy)
Purgatorial Wolf - Agnagarn
The cryptid let out a powerful fire breath until Levi cast powerful water magic to counter it and cool the flames. Then the Agnagarn launched some firey howls and then some stomps but everyone dodge and counter it. The Cryptids begin to launched some fireballs at Alfin, Elliot, Emma and Alisa but they dodge and begin to cast Orbal Arts again while The Melee fighters begin to launch out their hacking/slashy, punches and trust attacks all over, causing the cryptid to let out a roar to push them back.
Levi used Wave of Neptune and then Laure with her spin slash. Sara with her lighting bullets, Elise with her petal dance. And now Rean's Arc slash projections. Emma's magic beam attack with Kamek. Bowser punches and Junior paint splash attack. Mario brought out a Ice Flower with Luigi and Peach and then shoot iceballs at it. The Cryptid let out claw attacks toward everyone but some dodge and some block the attack.
The Dog let out a roar and buff itself. Ragna use Carnage Scissors as it while Aether stab the ground and causing elemental power and rise and cancel the buff and attack the cryptid. It begin to launch a fireball attack at everyone but Levi cast several water magic circles and shot the fireballs with water, dousing the flames, Giving everyone to let out an assault towards it, then the cryptid explode into purple light.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Reverie Corridor.)
"Whew." Rean said.
"It certainly is a powerful one. Enough to give me some good exercise." Levi comment.
"Still, with how far we've come, I would have expected us to be near the exit by now... and yet there's no sign of it." Laura replied
"Maybe we should head back to base for a while? This seems as good a time as-" Rean paused for some reason. "Wait."
"You sense it too, didn't you?" Levi asked as he and Rean look up.
"You too huh?" Crow asked
"Yeah. I can sense something above us." Rean nodded
"I can't sense anything at all." Celine replied
"Perhaps Rean and Crow can sense it because they're an Awakener. But how come Levi can sense it?" Emma asked
"That's a very good question. Maybe because of my power I have unique abilities compared to most of you. Or something like that." Levi shrug.
"Either way, we're near the end it seems." Aether said.
"Yeah, lucky with all of us here, we can keep going." Ragna said.
"Well, we've come this far. Let's get moving!" Sara advised
Everyone begin to move towards the elevator and then arrived at the seventeen floor.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Phantom Glimmer)
As they arrived, they see a doorway at the end. The doorway was a portal with a white darkness of sorts.
"White... darkness?" Laura hummed
Levi hummed. "This could be it..."
"I can sense an incredible amount of spiritual force from nearby." Emma said. "But it also feels somehow...hollow."
"Yes, hollow as that giant shadow we fought a few months ago."
"I think it's safe to conclude this is the last floor. On the other side of that darkness, the source behind what's happening is waiting for us." Rean said.
"Haha. This is the kinda door where you'd find something nuts on the other side." Sara nodded.
"Sadly, this isn't our battle, but we will do all we can to aid you." Mario nodded
"Yeah." Rean nodded. "No matter which one of us end up facing the trial itself, the rest of us deserve to see things come to an end."
"Well, shall we?" Levi asked.
"Yeah, let's go everyone." Rean nodded and they all went to the portal.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Ymir Canyon)
On the other side of the portal that took everyone to the colorless sandy field with all the swords stuck into the ground.
"Where could we possible be now?" Machias asked
"It looks somehow familiar." Elliot added
"Are we back at the highest floor of the Infernal Castle?" Alisa asked
"No, it's not that." Emma answered
"It seems to be a mixture of several places." Celine comment.
"Your right... this looks exactly like the one back during the Trial of the Great Shadow." Levi said.
"And so thou hast come..." A voice replied.
In front of everyone, a massive shadow appeared, behind it was a white light.
"It's..." Gaius trailed off.
"A white shadow?" Laura asked
"It kind of looks like a Divine Knight." Fie added
Rean step up. "Who are you? And what are you trying to achieve?! Everything should already be over here!"
"I stand before thee as a shadow... A silhouette of the Great One, charge with the governance of the Shadow Trial."
"The Shadow Trial?" Jusis asked
"Then that black shadow we fought before..." Millum trailed off
"Was a different shadow." Levi replied "And you are not him, are you?"
"Indeed young one. Loa Erebonius is the true test and measure of the potential Awakener." It said. "But as the Shadow Trial, I was sealed away within the darkness, never to see the dawning of the light."
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - The Time Has Come)
Then appeared from the center was a pool of white mist and emerged an entity with a monstrous form of sorts.
"I am Loa Luciferia." It spoke.
"It's gigantic." Alfin said.
"So pretty." Towa added.
"This is the Shadow Trial?" Angelica asked
"So there was more beneath the surface here than what Class VII experienced." George said.
"So if you were supposed to be sealed away, what are you doing causing trouble now?!" Sara added
"You were obviously trying to lead Class VII here." Toval nodded
"And yet you chose not to reject the rest of us, either." Sharon added
"I assume there is some reason behind all of this?" Claire asked.
"Indeed." Loa Lufieria answered. "The awakening of Vermillion and the Infernal Castle's ruination have led us to this juncture. The undulations of the spirit veins pierced even the depths of this sanctum. So it was that the proper trial was suppressed and in that void...that which was to be forever hidden from the eyes of man came forth."
"So what does that make you?" Crow asked.
"I am but a hollow trial. Thy victory would merit no reward, thy triumph, no recompose."
"A hollow trial?" Emma asked.
"That sounds like a good way to put it." Celine answered. "Utterly pointless."
"It would appear so." Hamsuke said.
"What a shame…" Luka sighed.
"Hollow? I hear it, but what's it matter?" Rean asked. " It's anything BUT that for us. We must -and will-defeat you."
Everyone then draw out their weapons and prepare a battle stance.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - To a Glimmering Tomorrow)
"We aren't here seeking some sort of reward. We aren't here to find some hidden purpose. Overcoming this trial will be a fitting end to our time together as Class VII, and that's all the reason we need to earn our victory here!"
"Thou art possessed of a fine spirit." Loa Lufieria responded. "Then let us commence the Shadow Trial! Now reveal unto me, children of man, how thou shalt fight and how thou shalt overcome."
"Why certainly!" Levi smiled "We will bring every fiber of our being to overcome you and put an end to all that we have gone through in our lives! Let's go, everyone!"
"Right!" Everyone nodded
Great White Shadow - Loa Lufieria
Loa Lufieria begin to launch an almighty power onto them and Levi use his power to counter-act as a barrier to defend a devastating force. Levi, Rean, Jusis and Alisa use their support crafts to buff everyone as almost everyone, except the Orbal Staff group and the Range team support them from the back as the Melee group let out their strongest assault. Loa Lufieria spawn minions to aid him. Levi use Supercell Plunger as he gather the minions in once place then leap into the air and strike them with pillar spike, giving Gaius, Ragna, and Aether to take them out.
Elliot, Emma, Alfin, Alisa cast Malestorm, Altair Cannons, and Claiomh Solarion together and cause a devastating blow. Loa Lufieria wave it's hand and send several powerful blast and knock almost everyone. Bowser shoot several Fireballs as Kamek summoned a magic circle and shoot projections at it. Mona created several shooting stars and launch them all over Loa Lufieria. Before Loa Lufieria can send out an attack Aether punch the ground and cause a tornado to strike, giving Ragna the change to let out a flurry of slashes. Loa Lufieria swirl its arm and then cause several ray attacks forcing everyone to split up as they dodge.
Levi cast Crescent Moon to reflect any magical attack. Ragna swing his Armmara toward Loa Lufieria and Jusis imbue his sword and launch large rapid trust attacks, giving Machias to launch several bullets and Morgan cast Forseti as Lissa twirls her axe before tossing it out, and her axe spins and orbits around her like a boomerang. She then catches it, does a few axe twirls, then does a final overhead slam that generates a large lightning explosion. Junior got into his shell and swirl and launch himself and the strike on Loa Lufieria's foot before leap into the air, let a X paint slash, then snap his finger and causing an explosion.
Loa Lufieria launch a breath attack but the magic reflector reflected it back at him. Mario conjured a large and powerful fireball while Luigi charge a powerful bolt toward it. Peach clap her arms together and channel a heart before she toss it into a powerful heart explosion. Daisy leap into the air and launch a powerful crystal punch attack on Loa Lufieria's face, forcing it into his knee. Gaius zoom toward Loa Lufieria and strike through with several slashes. Crow swirl his Double Saber and charge with Angelica and launch a combo duo attack with slashes and punch projections.
Loa Lufieria spread out it's arms and conjured an orb of its power and then slam it to the ground, creating a powerful shockwave, and pushing everyone back. Elliot use his Craft and heal everyone as Alfin heals everyone with her craft as well. Towa use her Craft: Shooting Stars by fire several magical bullets at one point and causing an explosion. Sharon let out several steel wires towards Loa Lufieria and then let out a powerful strike while Toval cast Ragna Vortex while Claire use Frigid Rain on Loa Lufieria.
Loa Lufieria send out several devastating protections toward everyone as they take cover form the attack. Class VII, Towa, Angelica, Sharon, Toval and Claire begin to S craft onto Loa Lufieria, causing a spiral of devastating attacks all over Loa Lufieria. Rean use his Spirit Unification and Levi use Sacred Light as their appearance change.
"Levi!" Rean shout as Levi nodded
"Right!" Levi shout back
"OVERDRIVE!" They shout in unity and become even more powerful.
Both of them zoom toward Loa Lufieria before he can even react. Rean sliced at Loa Lufieria countless times and Levi pointed at the center where Loa Lufieria is at, and then a Golden magic circle appeared, and then Levi jump into the air and have angel wings and summons several magical beam shoot toward Levi's Glaive as he raised it high. Levi's Glaive was imbued with radiant power, and then he charge with speed naked to the human eye, and launch a flurry of slashes, combining it with Rean's Phantom slashes. Levi reappeared above Loa Lufieria, let a wild swing then spins it in a circular fashion forming a tornado with the elements and higher elements imbued into it. Then Rean lends some blue flame slashes and then a fiery slashes as he wraps into different surroundings on Loa Lufieria with phantom slashes. Levi exit the tornado, then summon all the elements from his hand, and pointed at Reach's Tachi. Rean raises his Tachi high and the elements enter and imbue his sword with a glowing extended rainbow. Levi landed and stab the ground and radiant power draw closer to Loa Lufieria and then his Glaive extended. Levi wrap alongside Rean as they was on the opposite side of Loa Lufieria, and then the seven elements orbs floated over Loa Lufieria. They slash Loa Lufieria as they reappear and stood side by side with their eyes close, then open.
"Radiant Starfall Dawn!" Rean and Levi shouted as the orbs explode into sparkles and slashes as a heavenly light appeared underneath Loa Lufieria. Loa Lufieria fell into it's knees, then let out a roar before it finally vanished.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - For Those We Hold Dear, For Those We Love)
Suddenly, the colorless area around everyone became a bit more colorful with snowflakes falling down. Everyone put away their weapons as Rean catch the snowflake in his hand as Machias and Alisa started a small chuckle.
"We did it." Fie said with a smile.
"We did." Levi said, sighing in happiness. "Now it's all over..."
"We earned our victory." Laura added.
"It was one hell of a fight..." Crow smiled
"So that's it, I guess. Class VII's over." Jusis nodded
"Here, at least." Emma replied
"It's been a year I doubt I'll ever forget." Gaius nodded
"Yeah, it really has." Elliot trailed off.
"Ahhh, I had sooo much fun." Millium felt her cheek. "Huh...why am I...?" As we all turn to her. I felt something different as well. "Ahaha. What's wrong with me? I only came here 'cause Gramps ordered me to." Then Millium became emotional. "So why am I...?"
Alisa walk up to Millium and hug her. "It's okay... There's nothing wrong with you at all."
"I think it's because it's hit us hard." Levi answered, before he felt the emotion and his tears coming out. "That we did it, we finished our final trial together...and now it's all over."
"Regardless of why you came to be here, You're as much a member of Class VII as anyone else." Laura added
"Well, there's no shame in crying when you feel sad." Emma said, before she started crying.
"Yeah..." Fie added as tears coming from her eyes. "That goes for us, too."
Soon Millium begin to cry along with Alisa. Fie. Emma and Laura began to cry as well
"C-Come on guy... Knock it off..." Machias sniffed as he's holding back his tears.
Elliot's tears came out as he also begin to cry. "They're not the only one who wants to."
"What a way for everything to end." Jusis said.
"There's no point in pretending you don't want to cry too." Gaius added.
"Yeah, you're right." Rean sad smile.
"There's no need to hold back" Levi sniffed and lend a hand out to Rean who shook Levi's hand. Then they shared a hug with tears.
"They all care for each other, so much." Towa commented.
"Well, I didn't see this coming." Angelica said.
"Yeah... but even still..." George added as he felt emotional.
Elise and Alfin were already there with the tears.
"I swear, why do I have to feel like...?" Celine look the other way.
"Oh Celine... there's nothing wrong showing your feelings..." Luka replied.
"It's part of us, you know." Hamsuke added with a sad smile.
"They've probably been bottling this up for quite some time." Claire said.
"I'm sure they have...and yet they've never let it show." Sara added. "They just kept looking forward."
Sharon nodded. "To the very end, each of them walked the path they chose for themselves."
"Yeah, they're a real group of kids." Toval agreed.
"Yeah..." Peach said as she sniffed.
"They been through a lot, grow a lot..." Daisy added as they wipe their tears.
"And now let it all out." Crow let out a soft chuckled.
"All things must come to an end... and yet at the same time... it's a new beginning for them." Morgan wipe her tears.
"Yeah..." Lissa smiled.
"They really are a strong bunch of kids..." Ragna smiled.
"They sure are..." Aether smile as Paimon let out a sob.
"Yet no matter what happens... They will always have each other." Kamek said, before he wipe his tears as Junior sob.
"It's part of life." Bowser nodded.
"Both young and old." Mario smiled.
"No matter where you are." Luigi sniffed.
"Different worlds, different dimensions, it matters not. That's the real treasure." Mona smiled
(BGM ended)
Dateline, March 25th.
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - The Time the Lino Flowers Bloom)
The day had come, Spring was on the way and it was time for Class VII to depart. Rean was in his school uniform, while everyone else were in their casuals, ready to say goodbye. Levi was wearing black jeans, a blue vest and a gray and blue striped shirt with a blue chocker and Crow was wearing casual clothes.
"Well, I guess this is goodbye for now." Machias said.
"Take care of yourselves, okay?" Elliot added.
"Lucky we still have our Rotom Phones so we can call each other at any time." Emma smiled
"Yeah. I wish all of you the best, too." Rean smiled
"Though I have a feeling we'll meet again in person sooner than we think." Levi wink.
"Heehee, so do I." Alisa said
"Besides, the Empire is smaller to us than it is to most people." Laura added.
Millium nodded. "Yeah! If I use Lammy, I can be anywhere in no time."
"This isn't goodbye as much as it is see you again soon." Gaius said.
"In the meantime, we all have our share of duties to fulfill." Jusis added.
Fie nodded. "Yep, but as soon as they're done...well, you know."
"Of course. Here's hoping our time apart treats every single one of us well." Rean replied.
"I hope so. I have a lot of things to do on my part." Crow chuckled as he wrap his arms behind his neck.
"Anyways, just look at those lino flowers bloom." Sara smiled
"This is truly a new beginning." Sharon said.
"And a new beginning is a new chapter." Morgan smiled
"I suppose I MIGHT miss this scenery." Celine replied.
"And we'll miss each other too." Hamsuke nodded.
"Hehe. Try not to act too tough, Celine." Luka giggled.
"Hmph. Well, good luck to you two as well." Celine replied
Rean and the others then turned to Sara.
"Oookay, what's up with you guys?" Sara asked
"Instructor..." Rean smiled as he place his hand to his chest.
"For all that you've done for us this past year." Alisa said
Then they bow to her in thanks. "Thank you very much!"
"We wouldn't be here, ready to start a new stage in our lives, were it not for you." Laura smiled
"Your teaching methods may have seem unorthodox, or even unreasonable at times, but it's hard to argue with the results." Jusis said
"Heehee. We thought it was only right to take the time and thank you before we said goodbye." Alisa added
"So we decided to surprise you." Rean nodded
"Still, given the opportunity, I would be happy to learn more from you someday." Gaius smiled
"And thanks for all you did for me as well. So Thanks Sara." Crow smiled.
"You kids are just..." Instructor... I mean..." Sara started to become emotional as she cover her lips and sniffle. "Aww, now look what you've done... I was planning to be all cool and mature until the very end...And I was doing so well too..."
"You lost sight of both cool AND mature a long time ago." Fie said.
"Looks like our surprise was an A+ success!" Millium smiled
"I-I think we might've gone a little overboard, actually." Elliot's nervous smile.
"Maybe all this was a little too cruel, Emma." Machias said
"It certainly seems that way." Emma sighed
"Now now. It's not your fault Emma. We thought we should give our thanks to the person who help us so much." Levi said with a smile. "But I'll admit... I wasn't expecting this result."
"Oh, so this was Emma's idea, was it!?" Sara pouted
"Hehe. Look at them." Luka smiled.
"Despite everything else. Things will be the same with them." Hamsuke nodded
"And it begins..." Celine said.
Sharon giggled "What a wonderful way to bring everything to a close."
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Season of Departure)
Then they waved goodbye at each other and everyone else except Levi as Morgan mount on her Pegasus and Crow mount up too and flew off and Hamsuke and Luka jump into Levi's shadow. Rean and Levi smiled at each other and did a high-five as Levi and Rean split up next.
Post Credit Scene #1
"Your Majesty, everything is progressing well at the moment."Hubert said.
"Good, at least that settled." Edelgard nodded. "Honestly... it's been nearly two months since that happen..."
"Yes..." Hubert let out a glare. "The day Garreg Mach was taken over by Those Who Slither in the Dark and betray us. All thanks to that detestable organization... Organization XIII."
"I suppose we are fortunate they didn't reveal we were their allies and I was the Flame Emperor... However... I will never forgive them for what they did to the Empire... nor my father. They must be stuck down at all cost."
"Indeed. However, that will be difficult if it weren't for that cursed barrier Organization XII place all over Garreg Mach." Hubert muttered. "Not to mention things will get more difficult thanks to those creatures they commanded. Heartless, Nobodies, Unversed, they been slaughtering every human life all over Fodlan, Villages, Towns, and here in the capital. No one is safe..."
"Yes... it was fortunate that Sothis created a barrier to prevent those who Slither in the Dark from ever leaving Fodlan... yet Fodlan must remain a close nation for the time being. I'm not surprised many of our people leave Fodlan to avoid casualty. We must find a way to break through that barrier and destroy those who Slither in the Dark for good."
"I agree. the treaty with Faerghus and the Alliance will help us now that we have a common goal."
"I just hope everyone is all right... The same goes for every one of our friends outside of Fodlan..."
To be continued in: Trails of Cold Steel: Chaos of Fodlan
I'm truly glad for this everyone. Hope you all like it. But like usual, this is just the beginning. So it's far from over. Oh yeah! Want to find out what happen in Fodlan? Well when it comes out, you'll see.
