Dateline, March 9th, 1205.
(Levi's POV)
A lot has happened for the past months. Class VII return to our school lives. We broke the unfortunate news about Crow. His death as a shocked. And... I wasn't planning on killing him either. I was so mad at him that... how can this actually happen? Karma is a bitch? I guess it's true as they say. What concerns me Chancellor Osborne's was Rean's real father, it turned out that Mysterious man, Rufus, and Claire knew about it. He didn't take it well with Claire. Jusis was upset with his brother. And now Helmet is actually dead. He deserve it. when he finally figured it all out.
In the months that passed, the palace at Heimdallr was returned to normal and everyone who was a victim of being kidnapped was able to breathe a sigh of relief. The Noble Alliance was disbanded as Rufus ordered, Cayenne was killed by that mysterious man and Cayenne was known as a criminal mastermind, I heard that even if he was alive. He lost his position, the mansion and the assist, and Vita and the rest of the Ouroboros left the country. A part of me had a feeling that we would meet them again.
The pointless war that had cost a few lives was over and once peace was restored around Erebonia, we were given time to take a long period to relax, before we resumed with our studies at the academy. Speaking of which, Rean was given a task by Lechter to go to Crossbell and stop an intel leak with the assist of Altina. Today's the day we greet him. We walk to Trista station and there he is, looking at the blooming Lino Flowers.
"Welcome back, Rean." Alisa greeted
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Irriplaceable People)
We all gathered around to welcome him back.
"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.
"Of course we did Rean, Why wouldn't we?" I smiled "The Lino Flowers just starting budding yesterday. It should be in full bloom in about a week."
Millium giggled. "Guess some of 'em couldn't wait!"
"I guess not." Rean sadden
I notice Rean expression.
"Is something wrong Rean?" I 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." Instructor Sara explain
Rean sighed "Really now?" I'm guessing he wasn't happy with her still. "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 wans't! Not at all!"
"I swear, you can't be honest with yourself, can you?" Hamsuke said he appeared over my shoulder.
"There's nothing wrong with admitting you're concern. Or are you that much prideful?" Luka smirked
"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, ao I might as well attend. I mean, I HAVE been absent for a month now." Rean answered
"Wow, you're no fun at all. I was hoping we could skip the whole class thing and get to the welcome back party." Instructor 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 we begin to walk to the academy as I walk alongside Rean and then we stopped.
"Hey, Rean." I turn to him. "I'm really glad that you're back."
"Thanks. I feel the same way." Rean smiled
Dateline, March 12th, 1205.
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - The Warmth of Soaking One's Feet)
After Rean returned a few days ago and we were all happy to see him after he was gone for a month.
As for Crossbell, the city was brought back to being under the control of Erebonia and as for Calvard, there was no word of them ever since their armies were forced to back down, they hadn't attacked the surrounding areas since.
And here we are in March, where we will graduate, and where our class group would be saying our goodbyes. What should I do? That's when Master Makarov told me that I should continue my training if I were to face this Steel Maiden and Mcburn as Equals. Yeah… that may be for the best.
We were in the middle of wrapping up today's homeroom session and in our uniforms.
"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." I 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." I shrugged. "I could've been one, but I think I'll stick with being a mysterious Angel or the boy with Mysterious powers. Besides, I don't want to get too much attention for my sake. But I'm more concerned about you Rean. About your powers… and how your 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 added. "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."
Emma giggled. "I wouldn't be a 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."
"Guess we'll know for sure next year."
(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."
I frowned. "Really, Instructor? You HAVE to blow THAT out?"
"And truly, you 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
I covered my mouth, holding in my 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
I burst into laughter. "BAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! You guys are killing me! Ahahahahahaha!"
"Arrrrrgh! Now look what you guys done!" Instructor 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 Instructor Sara left.
(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.
Rean nodded. "For me, it feels like it's been ages since I last had one."
"Guess that would." I said. "By the way, how was Crossbell?"
"Well, it was okay, but I kinda felt very uncomfortable there."
I 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?" I title my 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
Talking about Gambling... we all turn to the empty eat behind us. My heat aches thinking about it.
"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 way." I wrap my arms over my head.
"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..."
"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.
Elliot chuckled. "That's a very... you response."
"If there's anything we can help with, let us know, okay?" Alisa offered
We all then left whilst Rean stayed behind a little longer. I stoped and then head back.
"Hey, Rean." I called out to him as I 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." I answered and then wrap my arms around my 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 us begin to have ourselves a nice conversation. Until times pass and we begin to part ways for now.
After our clubs were finished, we walked from the academy and we were going over the day we first met. To think that one year ago, we would meet for the first time and now we had become the best of friends. The same is double for me, considering that I had a very troublesome burden.
"On a hopefully unrelated note, what are we gonna do for dinner tonight?" Elliot asked.
"Good question." I hummed. "We could go eat at Kirches's 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 shirt 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 our 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
I 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.
And then Instructor Sara came and now she's just like Alisa.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Evening Moments)
Sometime later after dinner, it was now the evening and I had left my room. I was talking to Hamsuke and Luka about what we're gonna do once we leave. Then I heard a knock and see it was Rean.
"Hey there, Levi. Talking to your familiars?" Rean asked
"Yep. I'm discussing with them once the time." I answered. "Honestly. It was one hell of a journey I'm going to remember for the rest of my life. The rest of my life is just training and educating. So dull. But now by seeing the truth with my own eyes. Wow."
"Oh yeah, you're planning on heading back to train with your master right?" Rean asked
"Yeah, I have to keep up in case if we meet up with Mcburn again." I nodded. "He's extremely powerful. And now we witness his other form is just... too much. I'm pale in comparison to him in strength. But by using my powers, I don't know if we are equals. But i know for a fact i'm nowhere near the level as him and the Steel Maiden."
"But is it even possible for you to reach their level?" Rean asked
"It's possible. I think. I have a feeling it might be. Still, this is the first time I've learned so much from the outside world. I still want to learn more... and...find out who I am."
"Your origin is a mystery. Still, no matter what. you are still you Levi."
"Thanks for that, Rean." I smiled but then I begin to think. "Still though... while I'm concerned about my past... I'm very concerned about you too. My reason to grow stronger has never set higher... however... I can't simply let you be all alo-"
"It's okay, Levi. We talk about this." Rean said as he interrupted me. "The best thing now is for the two of us to go our own ways and do what's best for us as individuals. You only got one life. You've got to make the most of it instead of feeling obliged to hold back for someone else's sake. That goes for everyone here. Not just us."
I sighed. "You're right. We all have something we have to do for ourselves. But please, never forget I'm always with you and by your side, Rean. And please... stay safe. And contact me for any reason. And that includes your powers as well. No matter what time or how far you are. I'll be there for you."
"Thank you, Levi. That means a lot. And this apply to you as well."
"Of course. Thanks, Rean." I smiled and then I hug him and he hug back.
Dateline, March 13th.
I left the dorm feeling refreshed and a little proud of myself. I was going to make the most of this free day by taking care of horses and singing to the horses with my voice.
However, I sense something was off from the distance. Looks like something big was about to go down today. I left the stables and then the main building before going over to the Old Schoolhouse. I saw Claire, Toval, Elise and Alfin who were with Rean. then later I heard a familiar bell go off.
"Well, this certainly is a surprise." I said as I 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."I 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
I turned to see Celine, Hamsuke and Luka who showed up.
"Oh hey, Celine." Rean said.
"Hello Hamsuke, Luka." I 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, I forgot that she liked cute things.
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, then..."
I got interrupted when the bell at the old schoolhouse went off again.
"How?" Rean said.
"It can't be..." I 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's happening?!" Alfin asked
"The building is... glowing?" Elise asked
"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." I replied as I turn and see our class group arrived along with Sara, Towa, George and Angelica.
"What in the world?" Machias asked.
"It's just like the first night of the festival." Gaius said.
"Rean, Levi, what's happening here?" Then she see Alfin and Elise. "Wait. Elise? Your Highness?"
"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 here in one place?!" Angelica exclaimed happily.
George sighed. "Way to keep your priorities in check, Angie."
"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 apprised of the situation." Instructor Sara added
Rean and I explained it to everyone that this was all of the sudden. Since there was no barrier. We decided to head inside and find out.
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Phantom Glimmer)
Once we arrived. We enter something that is far unexpected. We were expecting to see the entrance hall, but it was far from that. Now there was a massive open outdoor area with a large tower in the middle. I think we're in a Phase Space
"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." Instructor 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.
Emma look like she was doing something but sighed. "I tried, but even my clarevoyance isn't enough to tell us anything."
"Nothing feels particularly off to me, either." Celine added "Levi, any idea this time?
"No. All I do know is that we're in a phase space now." I replied. "Buuut..." I then slowly begin to think. "Could this be?"
"What is it?" Claire asked.
"I think we're in the Reverie Corridor."
"The Reverie Corridor?" Elise asked
"Let me guess, your master?" Celine asked
"Yes, I know. It's pretty obvious at this point." I sighed. "Still. All I do know is that place is created by the Gnomes. The same group from the Dark Ages. Why don't we asked Valimar? He might know something."
So Rean called for Valimar who appeared in front of us.
"Valimar, do you understand anything about the situation we're in?" Rean asked.
"We withes only know half the secrets concerning the Divine Knights." Emma replied
"But you're one yourself- maybe you know something? Levi said this place is created by the Gnomes." Celine replied
"Hmm, my memories have yet to fully return." Valimar responded. "But what I can confirm is that this place was created by the gnomes."
"So I was right about this place created by the gnomes. They're also responsible creating the Spirit Shrines too." I replied
"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
"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."
"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. "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 known as the Great One. The first to be born, and the last to stand." Valimar answered.
'Hmm... that talk back with Vita during the Spirit Shrine is connected to all this. Perhaps I should ask my master about more about why they have sealed away.' I thought.
'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 us Class VII nodded in agreement.
"Wait! You aren't all thinking of..." Elise trailed off
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Reverie Corridor)
Instructor Sara sighed "You're gonna try and get to the bottom of this, aren't you?"
"You know us so well." I 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
"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?"
Instructor 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
I then sense Sharon presence.
"Sharon, is that you I'm sensing?" I asked as I 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
"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.
This 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." I replied
"Hold on a minute. Isn't that the Epstein Foundation's latest model?" Toval asked
"The Epstein Foundation?" Instructor Sara asked
"Weren't their staves the original model for the ones we've been testing here?" George asked
"Heehee. My brother used his connections to get it for me." Alfin answered. "And it's been adjusted especially for me, so I have no problems using it."
"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
"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." I 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. "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!"
We all cheered in response. Rean went forward to the elevator, selecting me, Alfin, Emma, Laura, Elise and Instructor Sara. Everyone else would have to wait as we took the elevator to the first area. The background was yellowish background like the earth element. But we continue to adventure. There were tough monsters to deal with and an elevator at the end of each area, but we pushed on through until we reached a checkpoint of some kind on the 4th floor. A monster that looked like a giant Hippo was waiting. It look like the one we faced back in Garrelia Fortress.
"Hey isn't that the Cryptid we face back in Garrelia Fortress? I asked.
"Yes, I remember how difficult this Crypids was when we faced it." Instructor Sara nodded
"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."
I put my 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?"
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Hertoromorphy)
We charged at the giant hippo. Considering we have experience fighting this one. We know what to do. Emma cast Crescent Moon while the rest of us begin to attack. Alfin use a special Craft to suppot us while the Cryptids launched a slam onto us and we attack it. We use our strongest and techniques onto the Cryptid. Emma and Alfin use their Arts and launched a powerful force on it. Soon I got it's attention as I use Penetrate Throw on it's face. Laura launched a powerful blue slash on it. And then Elise launched an elegant slash technique on it as Insturctor Sara use her Craft and launch lighting bullets at it. The Crypids cast arts but it was reflected back at it. Soon it roared. And then We begin to use our S craft on it and we defeat it.
(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." Instructor 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?" I 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 Crypids was a lot stronger than any of the ones we face during the war, too." Celine added
"The Gnomes craftsmanship is a sight to be hold. It's beyond modern Technology." I 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!"
We traveled the elevator to the fifth floor and repeated the same procedure. This one is wind element. We encountered a second cryptid on the eighth floor.
"This one looks like the one back in Lunaria Nature Park." I replied.
"Which means we have to be careful. Be on your guard, everyone!" Rean command
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost Hertormorphy)
Me and Rean buff everyone with our Crafts and then Crytpid launched a head attack to suck on our HP and we dodge but some got hit by it. But we begin to charge and attack while it begin to launched a stomp attack and head attack. But soon we begin to gain some critical hits to get a stronger blow. Princess Alfin launched a powerful Art attack at it along with Emma. Elise launched an elegant flower strike. Soon I use Wave of Neptune while Instructor Sara launched a purple lighting attack on it and the Crypids launched it's tongue onto the ground but we dodge. Soon we all launched a burst attack at it. Laura launched a powerful swing attack. Rean flame dragon attack, My Supercell Plunger, Princess Alfin Arts along with Emma, and now Instructor Sara's powerful Craft and cause the beast to be pushed back. Soon I begin to cast my Arts at it and highly damage it. We can't let the cryptid launch it's attack. Soon Laura use her S craft on it and then it begin to explode in a purple light with a critical strike.
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Reverie Corridor.)
We put away our weapons as we can see the barrier is done.
"Those Cryptids are no joke. Thank goodness for encountering something similar to our advantage." I sighed.
Still, it got us thinking.
"Rean?" Elise called out
"What prompted the sudden silence?" Alfin asked
"Haha... Oh, it's nothing." Rean nervous laughed.
"There appear to be many challenges still awaiting u 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." I nodded.
"I feel more than ever that every experience we've shared as a class, good and bad, has become a part of us and made us stronger."
"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
"No doubt the moment we overcome this, we will always prevail. So long as we are together, nothing will keep us at bay." I smiled.
"Yeah. If we make use of everything the eleven of us... no, the twelve of us have gain as a class, we won't lose to anything!" Rean said
Instructor 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
We received a called from George and he inform us that he made a few modification to the orbl charging station in the base area. To use those EX orbs use for Valimar, nice. We begin to head to the next area and the area color this one is water.
Just like before, we continue to the next set of floors were the same and we encountered a third cryptid on the twelve floor.
The same Crypids back in Ymir and when we help Laura and Emma.
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Heteromorphy)
Me and Rean buff everyone and then we charge in and then the Crypids launched a poison breathe attack but we dodge and counter it as we launched powerful attacks on it. While the Arts team cover us from the distance and launch powerful Arts. With the combat links as well and previous encounter. We begin to make short work of it as a team. But it's a lot stronger. It launched a tail attack and then soon a bite, but only to get hurt in return as we dodge and avoided. It begin to bring out spore onto us but I use Glaive to make a tornado to blow it away on whatever parasite attack. Soon We begin to use our S crafts on it and then soon it explode into purple light.
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Reverie Corridor)
"And that it number three." I said.
"We're making good progress here." Rean nodded
"How does the layout of the area keep changing itself every time we go outside?" Instructor 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 questions" who set it, and why?" Celime hummed
"Unfortunately, I don't have the answer for this." I 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
'Maybe Master may know something about this too.' I 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 scarch his head. "If only we had more information. As it stands, our only hope of getting any more is to keep going." Then he turn around and face forward. "All right. You guys ready to get going? The nemeies will probably keep getting stronger from here on, so stay on guard!"
We nodded and then keep moving forward. We head to the next floor which is red this one. Which means fire. Just like before. We continue and make our 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 a fourth cryptid. the dog.
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Heteromorphy)
The fourth is that Dog Cryptid with fire. I have to use water magic to cool the flames. Soon we begin to combat it and then dog launched some firey howls and then some stomps but we dodge and counter it. The Cryptids begin to launched some fireballs at our Arts team but they dodge in time and then we got back it's attention and then I use Wave of Neptune and then Laure with her spin slash. Instructor Sara with her lighting bullets, Elise with her petal dance. And now Rean's Arc slash projections. Soon Elise jump back while I use Supercell Plunger on it and then Rean follow up. Soon Emma and Alfin launched their Arts dealing intense damage. The Dog let out a roar and buff it self. Then we begin to unleash our S crafts onto it. And then while it's still kicking. We begin to launch it's fireball attack onto us but Laura launched and then strike it with everony else. Soon we unleash an all out attack and then it explode into purple light.
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Reverie Corridor.)
"Whew." Rean said.
"It certainly is a powerful one. Enough to give me some good exercise." I 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-" Then Suddenly. I felt something just now. "Wait." Rean said to us.
"You sense it too, didn't you?" I asked as we both look up.
"Yeah. I can sense something above us."
"I can sense anything at all." Celine replied
"Perhaps Rean can sense it because he's an Awakener. But how come Levi can sense it?" Emma asked
"It must be because of my powers." I hummed. "But that would mean..."
"Perhaps we're near the end after all." Alfin replied
"That appears to be the case." Elise nodded
"Well, we've come this far. Let's get moving!" Instructor Sara advised
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Phantom Glimmer)
We took the elevator to the seventeenth floor it's the last one. As we arrived, we can see a doorway at the end.
"White... darkness?" Laura hummed
I 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." Instructor Sara nodded.
"This may not be our battle but we will do all we can to aid you." Alfin nodded
"Let's let the others know we're here." Rean said. "No matter which one of us end up facing the trial itself, the rest of us deserve to see things come to an end."
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Ymir Canyon)
By using the teleporter, we got everyone else to regroup with us and when we were all together, we set foot through the doorway and through a portal that took us to that very familiar place, 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." I said.
"And so thou hast come..." A voice replied.
In front of us, a massive shadow appeared that was in a white colour, similar to the black one.
"It's..." Gaius trialed 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
"That one is name Loa Erebonius." I replied "Anf 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."
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - The Time Has Come)
Then appeared from the center was a pool of white mist and emerge from it was a similar version of Loa Erebonius.
"I am Loa Luciferia." It spoke.
"Loa Lufieria... The Great White Shadow." I said as I close my eyes and open it again.
"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?!" Instructor 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." Shaon 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?" I 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."
We all drew our weapons out.
(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!" I 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
This was the final battle. This time with everyone stand with us as one. Loa Lufieria begin to launched an alimgihty power onto us and I use my power to counter act as a barrier to predict such a devastating force. Then every one of us who has buff Crafts use it to support all of us as we all begin to attack. Soon Loa Lufieria spawn minions to aid him. But we begin to take him out since there is a large numbers of us. And with that. We begin to use our strongest Crafts as Loa Lufieria strikes back. Then I cast Crescent Moon to reflect any magical attack. Soon Rean and I awaken our power and then e begin to attack Loa Lufieria together. As everyone else join in to attack it. It launched a breath attack onto it. But the magic repel it. Soon everyone begin to launched their S craft onto Loa Lufieria.
Soon Rean use his Spirit Unication and I use Sacred Light.
"Levi!" Rean shout as I nodded
"Right!" I shout back
"OVERDRIVE!" We shout in unity and are even more powerful.
Then we both slash Loa Lufieria and then we begin to use our Union Craft together. That very same craft that push Mcburn to his knees.
We both zoom to Loa Lufieria before it can even react. Rean sliced at Loa Lufieria countless times and I pointed at the center where Loa Lufieria is at and then a Golden magic circle appeared and then I jump into the air and have angel wings for show and summons several magical beam attacks, charge my Glaive glowing with my radiant power, and then charge with high dashing speed, and flurry of slashes, to join with Rean. I let a wildly swings 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. Then I summon all the elements from my 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. While I stab the ground and radiant power draw closer to Loa Lufieria and then my Glaive extended, I wrap alongside Rean as he's on the opposite side, and then the seven elements orbs floated over Mcburn. We slash Loa Lufieria and we stood side by side with our eyes close. We open our eyes.
"Radiant Starfall Dawn!" Me and Rean shouted as the orbs explode into sparkles and slashes as a heavenly light launched upward from the magic circle. Being engulfed inside and feeling several slices.
It certainly one hell of an attack on Loa Lufieria. A fitting end to finish off and obliterate this greatest foe. It roared before it finally vanished.
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - For Those We Hold Dear, For Those We Love)
Suddenly, the colorless area around us became a bit more colorful with a snowflakes falling down. We put away our weapons. Rean catch the snowflake in his hand as Machias and Alisa started a small chuckled.
"We did it." Fie said with a smile.
"We did." I said, sighing in happiness. "Now it's all over..."
"We earned our victory." Laura added.
"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 its hit us hard." I answered, before I felt the emotion and my 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" I sniffed and lend a hand out to Rean who shook my hand. We then 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.
(? pov)
As I observe through my magic. Class VII who are letting out everything they had kept inside. Seeing the Spirit of Crow there.
"Truly an emotional scene... a fitting end for the chapter of friends and love ones on school life, and adventure." I said. "But the chapter of this story has not reached the end just yet. They'll be moving on forward now. It is just the beginning of a new chapter."
Dateline, March 25th.
(Levi pov)
(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 me and everyone else were in their casuals, ready to say goodbye. I was wearing black jeans, a blue vest and a gray and blue striped shirt with a blue chocker.
"Well, I guess this is goodbye for now." Machias said.
"Take care of yourselves, okay?" Elliot added.
"I promise to write letters to you..." Emma smiled
"Thanks. I wish all of you the best, too." Rean smiled
"Though I have a feeling we'll meet again sooner than we think." I 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.
Anyways, just look at those lino flowers bloom." Instructor Sara smiled
"This is truly a new beginning." Sharon said.
"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
We then turned to Sara.
"Oookay, what's up with you guys?" Instructor 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 we 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
"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 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 for the person who help us so much." I said with a smile. "As Class President, I approve. 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."
(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Season of Departure)
Then we waved goodbye at each other and everyone else except me, Hamsuke and Luka walked into the station. Sharon was going with Alisa for obvious reasons.
Rean and I smiled at each other and did a high-five as me and Rean split up as I begin to teleport to my master.
Everything that I had now made me the person I became today. For all these long years of isolation. Finally begin to see the outside world. I hope everyone else will be doing okay. No matter what changes, my love and my happiness for each and every one of them will always stay the same.
(? POV.)
"My my. I'm happy to witness such an emotional scene." I said as I see Class Vll are on their way from the rooftop of a random house. "Well… I still have things to do… I should probably visit Roselia and give this." I said and then in my hand was a Medallion. The medallion was shape as a moon. "I'm sure she'll be very happy to use this. And…" I then begin to use my magic and show a vision of Levi… and another boy "It's almost time for this one to began his story." Then close it. "Now then. I should focus on everything else before returning home. I gave Vita a new weapon, and give Helmet Albarea the gruesome death as he's being sent to Gehenna. And the progress of 'him' is going smoothly. Now. I also need to check on our dear Crown Prince. I have a lot of work to do."
Then I teleport away.
ALLLLLRIGHT! Trails of Cold Steel II is done! But i'm not done yet. Next top with me in Trails of Cold Steel III. I need to work out a few things because just like before. There are things I will change within the story. But who is the mysterious man who observe? And who is this boy we just saw? Guess we'll find out on Trails of Cold Steel III which is coming up very soon!
Updated Quote
Burst
Crow:
"Crow, let's do this!" Levi quote
Reverse:
"Levi, give me a hand!" Crow Quote
Vita:
"Vita, now!" Levi quote
Reverse:
"All yours Angel boy." Vita quote
Altina:
"Come on, Altina!" Levi quoted
Reverse: "Levi." Altina quoted
Victory Quoted
Crow:
"Haha! The handsome duo strikes again!" Crow smirked
"I think we're too much for them." Levi chuckled
Vita:
"Does this count, dear Levi?" Vita asked
"Hmm, it's getting there." Levi answered
Altina:
"Was I much help?" Altina asked
"Of course Altina. Good job." Levi answered
