Dateline, June 15th, 1204.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - The Sound of Rainfall in the Academy)
The rain had begun to drip down across Trista and all around the area. Things had also settled down since our field study back in May. But now we were preparing for the next big hurdle to come our way. We were in the classroom and Sara was reminding us of what she mentioned to us last month.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Suburban Town of Trista)
"As you all know, tomorrow marks the start of your midterms exams." Sara said. "I'm no good with all these papers and essays and circling answers, so I won't really be able to help you much. But I am administering some of your tests, so I'll be cheering you on from the sidelines. Make me proud class!"
"Of course instructor!" I said with a smile.
"Levi, don't be kind." Jusis sighed.
"Huh?"
"Sometimes, I lie awake at night and wonder how you became our teacher." Rean said.
"As I recall, aren't you in danger of a lecture by the vice principal if our performance isn't up to par?" Alisa asked.
"Oooh, I'm not too worried about that. Most of you tend to pretty good grades anyway. I can hardly wait to see how well you all do." Sara answered. "Remember, the results will be announced next Wednesday. Your scores will be posted up on the board by rank, so you can see how you compare to the other classes in your year."
Elliot sighed. "The sooner this week is over, the better."
"I can already taste the tedium." Fie added.
"I'm not gonna let Levi and Emma squeak by me again this time." Machias said quietly.
Emma and I was giggling a little
"Oh, one more thing." Sara said. "They're going to stick the average score for each class up there on the board too."
"Our class averages?" Gaius asked.
"I suppose their intent is to furnish us with motivation in the form of class bragging rights." Jusis answered.
I hummed with Jusis. "I guess that's one way to put it."
"Well, I do enjoy a challenge." Laura said.
"Anyway, I know it's only noon-ish, but I think that's enough homeroom for today." Sara continued. "You can stay here and study or head back to the dorms, up to you. Emma, will you do the honors?"
"Yes Instructor." Emma nodded as she got up. "Stand...Bow."
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - The Sound of Rainfall in the Academy)
Homeroom was over a little earlier than planned and Sara left. We all gathered in a circle and wondered how to make the most of our chance to study before the exams. I'm not trying to be some perfect student or anything. Even I have my flaws. I want to look over the subjects. So the best way was for us to team up into pairs so we could help each other whilst studying. Elliot and Machias agreed to study on maths, Gaius and Jusis agreed to exchange what they learned with Erebonia history and military science, Emma and Fie agreed to study together, Laura was invited but she turned it down.
I already knew the reason why she would, because two weeks ago after our group returned from the field study, Fie decided to let us know a little about her background. We all appreciated her honesty...well, almost everyone. Since that day, Laura had become a little distant, especially towards Fie. Rean and I were already worried that something would go wrong between them, but unlike Jusis and Machias, they seemed more mature to not let their differences faze them completely. I did try to talk to her but she dodge the question.
Laura then left the classroom before Alisa left saying that she'll have a little talk with her before paring up to study. That just left me and Rean.
"So Rean, are you planning to study as well, or are you gonna be a rebel for the day?" I asked, jokingly.
"Nah, I wasn't planning on leaving just yet." Rean answered. "I'd like to get some studying done too."
"Well, I'm happy to teach you any topic. Why don't I join you and I'll do my best to help out. Sounds good?"
"Yeah of course."
So Rean and I walk together and explore the campus and look for books as well. After finding and looking over the books I pointed out. So we head to the library and then I told him the books that I recommended. The picture books of Erebonian History, The Fancier's Guide to Erebonia Opera and Paintings. In addition to that. I also taught him a few secrets of memorization methods. In addition. I also told him about the Art evolved in very complex ways during the Middle Ages. He ask me about Orbal Science questions and I told him the answer. He was surprised I know about it. Well, my master beat the information into me as I read ALOT of books. And he asks me about Erebonian history. And I told him some answers that surprised even himself. Same thing with Military Science. And so we both walk around and then we eventually found Laura and Alisa. I'm concerned for Laura. I don't want another one like Machias and Jusis. I was so surprised about what happened. So that strike two for that bastard father of his. But I'm glad Machas matured as well as Jusis. But here's hoping it's long. Anyway. We eventually found Laura and Alisa and we study with them about Art for the time being while I'm helping out my classmates. And then after them. We study Erebonian History with Fie and Emma. While during and Fie manage to remember about in 952. And when we were discussing about the war came to an end in July of that year, I told them about a little trick that help them remember. It was raining when Dreichels came to liberate Heimdallr, but when he set foot into the capital, the rain stopped. While Fie and Rean respond that will stick into their memory. I notice that Emma looked genuinely shocked, which was a rare sight to see. She ask me how did I know and I told her by studying. Which is an obvious choice. But in truth. That was a lost knowledge of that information. After studying with Fie and Emma. We next was studying with Elliot and Machias. There was a math question Elliot was having and then I explain to him in a way he can understand it. Because of that. Elliot thank me and how I said it was easy to remember now. And I look at Machias that he was surprised that I explained in a way that's clearer and memorized. And after that was Jusis and Gaius. We study with them about Erebonia History and Military Science. Once that was done, Rean and I then exited the building with an umbrella and opened it up. I notice a maid coming this way. Rean notice my look.
"What's wrong?" Rean asked.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Thors Military Academy Festival)
"Excuse me?" She said. "I do apologize for stopping you on a rainy day like this. Do you know if this is the building in which I might find the principal's office?"
"Oh. Yeah, you're in the right place." Rean answered. "His office is in the east wing, first floor."
"The receptionist might have already left. But I can show you the way if you like." I offer.
The maid giggled. "Thank you for your kindness. But I couldn't possibly trouble you more than I have already. I'll be able to find the way, I'm sure. Well, then, if you'll excuse me, Master Rean. Master Levi."
"Huh?!" I look surprised. How does she know that? "How did you know mine and his name?"
Rean just now seem to notice too.
"I've simply done my research," the maid answered vaguely. "Now, if you'll excuse me…"
Then she left me and Rean as she bow to us and went inside.
"Now hold on! That barely an answer!" I exclaimed.
I was going after the maid when-
"Rean?"
We turn and then see Alisa coming towards us.
"Ah, hey there, Alisa. Heading back to the dorm?" Rean asked
"Yep. Emma and the others are staying a little longer to cramp a little more. But I figured I'm not gonna learn much more today, so I might as well call it a night and start prepping for tomorrow." Alisa answered with a smile.
"Ah, gotcha. We were going to head back ourselves. Why don't we go together?" I suggested
"Sure, okay."
And then we begin to head to the dorm. We talk for a bit and then were not sure if Rean did a joke or a flirt thing but I couldn't help but laugh at what he just said. He's bold but also… bwahaha. We talk about the exam and then she blabbered that I would get a perfect score due to me being Mr. Top scorer. And then we talk about our background but I'm guessing about her surname. And then about the maid who knows our names. And for some reason. Alisa may have an idea but wasn't sure.
-June 16-
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Brain-racking Test)
The first of the four exam days was here, we had to cover questions on Erebonia History and Art, I was very confident on both subjects. I'm not an artist but I did have some drawing experience back as a child.
-June 17-
The second day of exams arrived, we covered many questions on Military Science which was another subject I had no problem with.
-June 18-
Onwards to the third day of exams which was about Orbal Science, I also don't have a problem with this. So I answer many questions with ease. This was followed by Political economics.
-June 19-
The final day of exams had come around which were Combat Studies which I had no issue with. The bell had rung, I sat back and took a moment to reflect on the fact that I had just finished four days of midterm exams.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Suburban Town of Trista)
"Congratulations on making it through four days of exams." Sara said. "And what do you know! It looks like the rain ended right along with them. Clearly, this is the goddess way of rewarding you all for your hard work."
"I think that's rather a coincidence." I replied.
"I don't think that reasoning would stand up to scrutiny." Alisa said.
"Phew, I'm totally spent." Elliot sighed.
"It's over." Fie added.
"Heehee, You've worked really hard, Fie." Emma smiled as she turn to her.
"Anyway, today's a free day, so take the chance to unwind and blow off all that pent-up exam stress." Sara continued. "They'll post the results next Wednesday, so take it easy until then."
"That's when we'll have the next practical exam, right?" I asked.
"Yep, sounds like you're starting to get used to the routine."
Machias sighed. "With all the intense studying, I'd forgotten about that."
Jusis frowned at Sara. "You could stand to be a little more considerate with the timing of your announcement."
"And I'm guessing we'll also know where we're heading for our next field study?" Rean presumed.
Instructor Sara nodded. "Yep you'll be shipping out that weekend for another exotic trip. Aaanyway, make sure of tomorrow, everyone. You've earned at least one day off."
Ah. Maybe I can either study, train or horseback riding.
"Oh, and one more thing. I've got some business to take care of town after we're all done here. I won't be back until tomorrow night, so don't, like...burn the dorms while I'm gone or anything."
"Yes, I'll try not to set it on fire." I respond with a joke.
And some of my classmate laugh.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Spacious Blue Sky)
The homeroom session was over and we left the classroom, most of us decided to walk back as a group, although Gaius, Laura and Fie were missing.
"Whew, now that the exams are over, I'm free as a bird." Elliot said. "And I'll keep on soaring, at least until the results come back..."
"I know the feeling." I replied. "As for me, I really got this on the bag but I really don't want to brag."
Machias groaned and muttered "Well that's good I suppose. Personally, I've got a good feeling about these." Machias then turn to Emma. "How about you, Emma? How did you think you did?"
"Well… I don't think I did too badly, all things considered." Emma answered
Machias groaned again.
"Just… Just stop before you embarrass yourself." Jusis sighed.
"Oh, I think he already has…" I sweatdrop.
"We'll just have to wait and see what next week's results look like," Alisa interjected, trying to change the subject. "Anyway, what do you think that was all about, with Instructor Sara?"
"Oh, you mean that whole thing about going out of town to meet someone?" Rean asked "Going out of town… won't be back until tomorrow night… it's almost as if…"
"As if what?" I asked.
"She's going to meet her s-s-secret lover?" Emma asked
"Impossible," Jusis denied immediately. "The Empire hasn't yet turned out a man desperate enough to woo that alcoholic typhoon."
I couldn't help but laugh. "Oh Jusis. That was so mean yet true, Bahahaha!"
"You have a point," Machias agreed without hesitation. "I can't deny she's got the looks to snare a man, but with that personality…and that lifestyle…"
"Haha, you guys are terrible!" Rean remarked. "I mean, I totally agree, but still…"
"Ouch. Not surprised to hear that from you, though, Rean. She always seems to dump the most work on you." Elliot said.
"Will you be helping the Student Countil again tomorrow?" Alisa asked
"That's the plan." Rean said as we stop. "Heck, I'm almost looking forward to being the student council's errand boy after holing up studying for so long."
"Rean my friend. You're too kind and makes me wonder if you're pure." I smiled.
"Oh! Please let us know if you plan on exploring the Old Schoolhouse." Emma smiled
"Yeah. I'd be glad to lend a hand this time." Machias added.
"Thanks. Better watch out though- I might take you up that offer!" Rean smiled.
"Oooh. Looks like we're all up for a little exploration this time." Elliot smiled as we resume our walk but then notice something."Come to think of it, where did Gaius run off to?" Elliot asked. "He mentioned the principal wanted to have a word with him You think he went there?"
"Oh yeah, Wonder what was that about…" Rean wondered
"He doesn't seem to be the type to be in trouble." I replied as I place my arms over my neck.
"I have no idea." Alisa sighed. "Fie and Laura left early too. I was kind of hoping we could all walk back to the dorm together for once…"
"I know what you mean… I'm happy that Fie told us her background by her will but… I honestly don't know what's going on with Laura. I tried talking to her but she just avoided the question or couldn't look at me. I don't want to pry but… I know something is bothering her."
"Yeah, I agree. So… this might just be my imagination, but… do those two seem kind of awkward around each other to anyone else?" Rean asked
"Yeah I notice."
"So you two think so too…" Alisa trailed off.
"It seems like it started around the beginning of the month. I wonder if something happened then." Emma replied. "It's like they been avoiding each other ever since."
"You say that, but I did not take either as the type to dwell on petty issues or misunderstanding." Jusis said.
"Neither did I…" Alisa nodded
"We've been trying to suss out what the problem between them is, but so far, no luck. And Levi already tried."
"I wonder if that's what that was all about…" Machais said.
"Do you say something Machias?" Rean asked
"Well, do you remember the day we gave our group reports on what happen during last month's field study? We gave a truthful account, including the part where Fie used an explosive to blast open the door to my cell."
"Ahhhh…" I palmface. "So it WAS about that."
Of course. Laura avoids Fie because she used to be apart of the Jaeger corp…
"That's when we found out that Fie used to be in a jaeger corps. That really threw me for a loop, but what does that have to do with Laura?" Elliot asked
" Now that Machias brought it up. I recall seeing Laura's face look rather unpleasant expression."
"So it wasn't me that saw that expression on her face." Machais said.
"But even if we assume that's true, what reason would she have to be upset?" Emma asked
"I'm afraid I can't answer that question ourselves." I sighed.
"We all have certain things we'd rather keep to ourselves." Jusis said. "We even have a member of this very class who remains tight-lipped about her own family after all."
Alisa didn't take too kindly to that remark, "Do you really have to drag me into this?"
"My apologies, I meant no offense."
Jusis has a point, but out of all of them, I have a special secret. That secret…
"I do have my suspicions as to your lineage, however." Jusis then turn to me. "And it seems our top scorer also have the same conclusion."
"You…" Alisa muttered.
"Now now, getting angry won't accomplish anything." Emma replied.
"Don't worry, we're not going to twist your arm into telling us. When you're ready to talk about it, we'll be ready to listen." Rean added.
"It's not like I'm trying to make a big deal out of it or anything… It's just… if everyone knew, it'd make things awkward between us, and I don't want that…" Alisa trailed off.
"Come now Alisa. Do you remember what I said to Rean at the end of our first field study?" I asked.
"Of course I remember it…"
"Welcome back, my lady." A voice greeted outside the dormitory.
We turned to see the maid that I had seen for a brief moment a few days ago.
"Wh-what?" Alisa was in a state of surprise. "Sh-Sharon?!"
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Thors Military Academy Festival)
"It's so delightful to see you again." The maid spoke.
"Hey, I remember you. You were that maid who knew me and Rean's name four days ago." I said.
"What are you doing here?!" Alisa asked. "She didn't...mother didn't..."
"Heehee, but of course. I was sent here at the behest of the chairman herself." The maid replied. "Starting today, I will be assuming the position of caretaker for Class VII's dormitory."
So now we have a maid in our dorm?
"It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance everyone. My name is Sharon Kreuger." The maid bowed. "I am a servant in the employ of the Reinford Household, Lady Alisa's family."
"Ahh… so I WAS right after all. You're actually a daughter to the Reinford family." I look at Alisa. Aaand for some reason she glared at me.
"I will do all I can to be of service to you, so please, keep me informed of anything you might need."
"R-Reinford?!" Elliot exclaimed.
"So the 'R' stood for…" Emma began.
"Alisa Reinford, daughter of the Reinford company's CEO, Irina Reinford," Jusis finished. "Somehow, like Levi, I'm not surprised."
"Well, welcome to our dorm Sharon." I said with a smile.
"Thank you Master Levi."
And then Alisa looks really mad. What's wrong with her?
"Sharon. My room. Now!" Alisa then barge into the dorm as we sweatdrop.
"Well, then, if you excuse me. Lady Alisa has summon me." Sharon bow and then headed inside the dorm. As we follow her. I have a feeling things might go crazy.
"...What are you all standing around here for?"
I turn around first and see Fie returned. She was met with six of her classmates standing in the lobby and looking up at the second floor.
"Oh. Hey, Fie." I said. Then I notice Gaius just return too. "Oh! You too, Gaius."
"Is everything okay with the principal?" Elliot asked.
"There's nothing you need to worry about," Gaius answered. "More importantly, I'm also curious as to why you're all-"
"N-Not a chance!"
Gaius's question was promptly interrupted by the sound of Alisa's voice coming from the second floor.
"I thought I'd finally - FINALLY! - gotten away from her!" Alisa continued. "I'm not going to let her have her way this time!"
"My lady, please…" Sharon calmly responded.
Fie title her head. "What's with her?"
"And who is she with?" Gaius asked.
Elliot scratched his cheek. "Okay, how do we explain this…"
He hastily explained the situation to Fie and Gaius over the sound of Alisa's ranting. Eventually, the doors opened again and Laura appeared
"I see that everyone is gathered here…" Laura said as she gaze drifted towards Fie, who tried not to make eye contact.
"I can take perfectly good care of myself, thank you very much!" Alisa grumbled furiously. "Fine! I'll take this up with her myself, then."
Laura's turn to be provided an explanation. So I told her that Alisa's secret is out. And her surname is Reinford.
"Anyway, I'm not going to take this lying down! She's stuck her nose into things one too many times!"
The rest of Class VII was taken aback from hearing Alisa's voice reach new heights. Shortly after, they heard two sets of footsteps, one angrily ascending towards the third floor and the other softly descending to the first floor.
"I apologize for the disruption my lady and I have caused you," Sharon said once she stepped away from the stairs. "I see some new faces amongst you, so allow me to introduce myself once more. My name is Sharon Kreuger, a servant in the employ of Lady Alisa's family. As of today, I will be assuming the position of caretaker for Class VII's dormitory." She proceeded to curtsy once more. "It is a pleasure to meet all of you."
Well glad that Levi finished the exam at least. And looks like next chapter we will be looking into the exam score and Field Study after the Practical Exam.