Dateline, June 20th.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Refreshing Morning)
We joined together in the dining room in our dorm for breakfast and we were surprised to see a lot of food laid out for each of us.
"My my Sharon. Doesn't this look extraordinary?" I smiled
"Just how many different types of food are there?" Machias added.
"This looks...edible." Fie said.
"I believe this is what they call an imperial breakfast." Emma answered.
Sharon nodded. "That's right, Emma. It's a traditional style of Erebonia breakfast."
"It is far more colorful and varied then the breakfast served in my own home." Laura added.
Jusis nodded. "I would compare this spread favorably with the breakfast served at the duke's household."
"Hmhm, I'm honored that you think so." Sharon smiled. "I've also brewed both tea and coffee if anyone would like some."
Alisa meanwhile was feeling absolutely displeased about it all, considering what happened yesterday.
"I object to everything about this." She said.
"Hmhm, I almost forgot, my lady. I made plenty of your favorite apricot jam. Would you like me to spread some on your toast?"
Alisa's eyes lit up. "Oooh, really?! I-I mean, stop treating me like a child!" She started blushing. "Though yes, I would like some jam."
Oh Alisa. We both know you love her here.
After breakfast was done, I decided to catch up on my music hobby. I decided to head to the school rooftop. Once I arrived. No one is there. Perfect. And the wind is letting a cool breeze. I sigh of relief as I relax. I begin to sit down on the bench and then begin to bring out my Lyre and then begin to play Beauty and the Beast. As I was playing the beginning part before I can sing.
"Levi, was that you?"
I stop playing and then see Rean.
"Oh hey Rean. Did you just hear me play?" I asked
"Yeah. I didn't mean to interrupt. But I heard some beautiful music playing. So I wanted to see who it was." Rean answered
"Hehe, I see."
"What were you going to play?"
"Do you know the song called Beauty and the Beast?" I asked as I look at my Lyre.
"Can't say I have." Rean answered
"Hehe. Of course, you didn't. Because I've created."
"You created a song?" Rean look surprised.
"Yeah. But this song was a few years back before I was enrolled in the Academy. It was popular in Heimdallr. But a lot happened. Since you're here, do you want to hear it?"
"Sure, I don't mind. But you sure you want to sing on the rooftop?"
"I don't mind. But I see your point. But I can't leave the city because of monsters now, can I? Plus I can use some fresh air. But as long I don't sing too loudly. I'll be okay."
"I suppose that make sense."
"Sit next me and I'll play it." I smiled
Rean then sit down next to me
(Beauty and the Beast: tale as old as time Harp version)
I begin to play my song. I begin to play the strings to create beautiful music. And then soon I begin to sing as Rean listen in.
"Tale as old as time
True as it can be
Barely even friends
Then somebody bends
Unexpectedly
Just a little change
Small, to say the least
Both a little scared
Neither one prepared
Beauty and the Be-"
"Well, what this lovely voice and music I'm hearing?" A voice asked.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Back to the dorm)
"Wha?!" My concentration was broken and I saw to my left a tall guy in a green student uniform and silver hair. "Where did you come from?"
"Crow?" Rean called out.
Wait, Rean know this guy?
"Oops, sorry for interrupting you. I wanted to see who it was that was singing and playing the harp. And Sup to you Rean." He said as he approach me. "You must be one of the guys from Class VII, right?"
"Yes and- wait…" I then got a closer look at him. "Ah. I remember you. You're one of the guys I saw on the cliff from the first day of the Academy."
"Wait, what?" Rean look to me in surprised
"Wow. You remember me after that long ago?" He blink.
"Yeah. I was wondering who you were. Now that I got a closer look. You're quite the handsome devil, aren't you?"
"Hehe. Thanks for the compliment. Though I don't blame you. But you're a handsome devil yourself. Names Crow Armbrust. I'm a second year in Class ll. Rean and I have met before. So what's your name, pretty boy?"
"I'm Levi. A pleasure to meet you, Crow." I couldn't help but chuckle.
"So what brings you here Crow? You're not thinking of leeching money, are you?" Rean asked
He chuckled. "What? Of course not. I was just minding my own business until a sweet music ring my ears as well as someone singing. And as someone who is curious. I follow who it was. How long have you've been practicing, Levi?"
"About 7 years." I answered with a smile.
"Seven years, huh? Not bad. Are you in the music Club?"
"No. I'm in the Riding Club."
"Really? I thought you were in one. Well I'd like to stay and chat with you some more, but I've got a meeting with some old friends. See ya around, Levi, Rean." He stood up. "Oh, mind if I call you Levy?"
"I don't mind. See ya, Crow." I replied with a wave as he wave goodbye and head out. "He certainly an interesting one."
"Yeah. He was."
"So when did you and him met up?"
"It's a long story." Rean answered.
"Okay. Let me playback, shall we?"
And then I begin to resume playing my song again.
(Beauty and the Beast: tale as old as time Harp version)
And just like before. I begin to sing and where I was at.
"Tale as old as time
True as it can be
Barely even friends
Then somebody bends
Unexpectedly
Just a little change
Small to say the least
Both a little scared
Neither one prepared
Beauty and the Beast
Ever just the same
Ever a surprise
Ever as before
Ever just as sure
As the sun will rise
Tale as old as time
Song as old as rhyme
Bittersweet and strange
Finding you can change
Learning you were wrong
Certain as the sun
Rising in the East
Tale as old as time
Song as old as rhyme
Beauty and the Beast
Tale as old as time
Song as old as rhyme
Beauty and the beast"
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Back to the Dorm)
"So what do you think?" I asked
"It was amazing Levi. I was completely breathtaken by your singing. Almost like a wave of warmth and comfort wash over me." Rean answered
"That's quite the flattery." I replied as I light blush. Then I look up at the sky. "It truly is a lovely day for me to play this."
"Yeah. It sure was. You don't mind if i listen to your playing next time, right?"
"Of course. I should get going as well. Call me if you need anything" I smiled
"Of course. Will do."
And with that. Rean and I begin to head out separately. I wonder who else heard it.
An hour or two has passed and i was helping out with the Horses in the Riding Club. When i got a call.
"Hello?" I called out.
"Hey, Levi. Are you free today?" Rean asked
"Yeah. What do you need? Wait let me guess. Old Schoolhouse?"
"Hehe. you guessed it. Oh and can you bring Jusis along?"
"Sure. I'll let him know."
"Thanks. See you there." Rean said before he hang up.
After I done my task. I talk to Jusis about the Old Schoolhouse. He will be honored to join us. The two of us begin to head there as I told him about what happened. And then the two of us arrived and then see Emma, Fie Machias and Laura join us. However, i notice Laura is feeling uncomfortable around Fie. Not only that. I also sense the Old Schoolhouse change again. But I felt something else within there.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - The Mysterious Old Schoolhouse.)
"Okay, let's get this investigation started." Rean said. "Everyone ready?"
"I'm ready to head out at any time." Emma answered
"I've been informed of what you've discovered during your previous investigations." Jusis replied. "Unlike certain... elements among us, there's no chance I'll hold you back."
"You better not have been referring to me!" Machias growled as he look at Jusis.
Oh boy...
"I have no intention of slowing anyone down!"
"Alright, alright, now, now you two." I sighed. "Anyway, I'm ready. Let's give this our all."
"All right. I'm counting on you." Rean nodded. "After what happened last time, there's no telling what we're in for. Keep your wits about you, everyone."
We nodded and then we begin to head towards the door towards the elevator.
"So this is the elevator that you mentioned. It does seem rather mysterious." Emma trailed off.
I notice the pedestal that the III symbol is glowing.
"Hey, Rean, look." I pointed at the III symbol.
"Another light's lit up on the main panel, too." Rean replied. "Looks like we can go down as far as the third floor now."
"And it happened right under our noses, too." Laura added
"Yeah. But it does prove what we talk about last time." I replied.
"Last time?" Emma asked
"Yeah. But let's check out what the third floor has in store for us. We need to investigate whether anything else has changed this month." Rean suggested as he pressed the III symbol and then the elevator activated and then we go down.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Investigation)
Soon we begin to arrived at the third floor.
"So, this is the third floor." Laura said as she look around. "And a stone door, much like the others."
"A door like this seem more like it's to keep... undesirable things in than to keep us out." Fie replied.
"Yeah, think we can safely assume we're not headed for a picnic." Rean nodded. "All right, let's be careful out there, everyone!"
"Right. Say, Fie. Want to Combat Link with me?" I asked
"Sure." Fie answered
We begin to enter the stone door and it activated and let us pass. Soon we begin to arrive at a different layout. We soon begin to arrived at the bridge?
"Thinking back, Sara said something curious before the exam." Fie replied. "A bit about preparing ourselves to use combat links at a more advanced level."
"More Advance level?" I asked.
"Mm-hmm. Something about more aware of each other's presence, letting us cooperate more effectively."
"Hmm... Wonder what does she mean by that."
"Yeah, I'm not totally sure what she was getting at, but I'm betting we'll figure out soon enough." Rean replied.
As we continue and cross the bridge. I see fish in the water?
"Wait, hold on." I called out to everyone.
"What's wrong Levi?" Rean asked as everyone turn to me.
"I see a pool of water but... why are there fish, here?" I asked as I pointed.
"Oh, you're right. That is strange. Why would be fish here of all places?"
"I'm just as confused as you are. But we can think about them later. Shall we?"
We begin to take on monsters along the path. I can feel my Master Quarts is also getting more stronger too. After we finish them. We continue the pathway and then passing through more bridges to get to the areas. Fighting more monsters and collecting treasure chests. Climbing up stairs, activating switches to get across some parts that are uncrossable. We begin to feel like we're doing puzzlesto get across. And it begin to take us awhile to arrived at the end. Once we did. Everything was like how it was with the other floors. Then we begin to rest up and then headed to the chamber. Once we arrived at the large chamber. Three devil monsters appears.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Tie a Link of ARCUS)
"Looks like we got demon monsters this time." I said.
"Yeah. Be careful everyone!" Rean nodded.
We begin to prepared for an counter attack on the three guardians. One of them shoot lasers from it's eyes and we dodge as the other demon monsters did the same. We begin to use our Crafts onto them as Fie launch bullets at them and then unbalance them and i follow up to the first one to the left. I begin to combat it as it launch it claw attacks onto me but i counter it and then land some wide slashes and push it back. Fie follow up and then strike it from behind. As the monster begin to counter attack next. I Cast a mirage Art on it and it got hit. Then I sense laser attacks charging at me and i took damage. And then the other demons unleash a wave attack onto us and push us back. Then I use my Piercing Throw at the Devils and then Fie follow up. And then the Devil we face did the same but Fie dodge and counter it. Allowing me to follow up. And then I begin to land some slashes and stab and then as it attack, i leap over it and then slash through it. It begin to explode in a purple light. Fie and I begin to join the others. The devils was launched lasers and waves at us and giving us a little hard time but Laura and Jusis use their crafts following up by Rean and Machias crafts. We soon join them with our crafts. And then Jusis cast an Art and Emma launch her Craft as well. Soon i cast an Mirage Art as well and then the devils power up and then we begin to dodge and then landed some slashes on each of them and then Rean strike through one and it explode in purple Light and Laura strike one and it also explode in purple light.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Investigation.)
We begin to panted after that little challenging monsters. I had no problem with them but this is new to my classmates it seems.
"Well... we won." Rean panted as we all begin to withdraw our weapons.
"So, that was this floor's guardian." Fie said. "You've fought things like that in here before?"
"Yeah. But these were different from the previous one too." I answered.
"Still..." Rean said as he look around.
"Is something the matter, Rean?" Emma asked
"Oh. I just thinking that Levi was right about this place. It looks like we've explored as far as we can go for now, let's head back outside. I'll tell you more then."
We nodded and then begin to use the checkpoint and then teleport us back to the elevator. Then use it to get back on level 0 and then arrived back to the entrance of the Old Schoolhouse. It was sunset already too.
"Sunset already, huh? We must have been down there a long time this month too." Rean said.
"No kidding. Being in the Old Schoolhouse investigating is time-consuming." I nodded.
Rean turn around to face us. "Thanks for your help today, everyone. There's no way i could've cleared that place on my own."
"Haha. Don't mention it." Laura said. "But it does seem Levi was correct about his hypothesis."
"Yeah." Rean nodded. " It's a Trial as Levi said. A Trial of strength. The Old Schoolhouse follows certain 'rules'."
"Rules?" Emma asked
"The first rule would be that there's always a door at the entrance to every floor. The second is that there's always a really tough monster waiting at the end. The third rule is that each month, a new floor opens up for us to explore."
"And the powerful force behind it all is testing us." I nodded "But the purpose and who is unknown to us still."
"It seems like the only way we'll get to the bottom of this is to keep exploring." Machias said.
"Yeah, it seems that way." Rean nodded. "Either way, we've gone as far in as we can go today. Let's meet up again next time."
We nodded and then we begin to split up to whatever we go. I decided to take a nice bath. Still. What was that back then? I did sense something within that place. I should talk to Hamsuke and Luka.
A few minutes later. I soon begin to take a bath as I return. I was talking to my familiars on the way too.
'So there is some force behind the changes of that schoolhouse.' Luka replied
'Yeah. But whatever the reason it may be it still a mystery. I hope i can find out what it is' I replied
Dateline, June 23rd, 1204.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Spacious Blue Sky)
To day is the day of the practical exam. But before our practical exam, we were told that the results were posted on a green board inside the main building and near the entrance. During the lunch break, we took a look at the notices that were put on there, showing the exam results. There were at least 90 other students that had the exam, I had a look at where my name was and I saw mine ranked 1 with 1000 points.
"Phew! Didn't do as bad as I was afraid I would. I can't believe it though! Levi, you earn the top score! And Emma and Machias are tired in second place!"
"Congrats, Machias." Gaius praised. "You always put in some impressive numbers."
"Haha, looks like you made good on your word after all." Rean added.
"I suppose..." Machias replied. "Still. Levi is the real natural though. Of course, Emma too."
"Oh not at all. We both just really hit the books hard last month." Emma said "But you're amazing Levi. You got all the answers right."
"Hehe. Well, I have studied hard like everyone else. I'm honestly embarrassed and happy at the same time. But I'm going to get unwanted attention." I sigh at the attention part.
"I'm glad everyone did so well." Alisa said.
"Agreed. I scored higher this time than I did on the entrance exam." Laura added.
Jusis sighed. "I suppose I'll have to settle for third this time."
"You make it look easy, Jusis." Elliot smiled. "You must've really buckled down on your studies, too, Rean, landing in the top ten like that."
"Yeah, Rean. I see my tutoring help you out." I smiled at him.
"Yeah. You really help me out there." Rean smiled.
Fie hummed. "I feel a bit left out."
"It's alright, you did very well, Fie." Emma replied.
"You must've had all the basics down pretty well to have scored like you did." Alisa added. "If you can build on that in the next exam, I have no doubts you'll be able to score higher."
"I guess...if I feel like it." Fie muttered. "By the way, there's something posted up over there."
The next piece of paper showed how each of the classes scored on average, our class group came out on top. I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride among ourselves.
Average mark
1st 1-VII 881 pts.
2nd 1-I 843 pts.
3rd 1-III 770 pts.
4th 1-II 735 pts.
5th 1-IV 675 pts.
6th 1-V 650 pts.
"Well, this is a surprise." I said.
"It seems Class VII had the highest average score," Laura observed.
"Excellent!" Alisa happily clapped her hands together. "I figured that might be the case, considering we have four of the academy's top five high scorers."
Jusis snorted. "You talk as if a class I'm a member of could possibly fail to place first."
"Why do you always have to be so full of yourself…?" Machias, not one to break tradition, couldn't help but retort.
"Boys, boys…" Emma tried to calm the two down, though her lighthearted smile indicated she was merely teasing. Compared to their interactions in the past couple of months, this was a substantial improvement.
"I think we should be proud of what we've accomplished," Gaius concluded.
"Me, too," Rean concurred. "Good work, everyone!"
Then I overheard the upper-class student from Class 1. As I turn on them. I look at them and then I give them an intimidating glare to silence them. I can see few of them flinched. I then turn back on the board. What a bunch of brats.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Let's Study)
With that. We can take our leave. We heard to the field to focus on our practical exam with Sara who seemed very happy with us.
"Well, aren't you all the overachievers? Congrats on your amazing performance on the midterms." She praised. "I'll cherish that grumpy look on the vice principal's face forever. That'll teach him to poke his nose into my business."
"We didn't do all that work just so you could stick it to him you know." Rean replied.
"I apologize for saying this Instructor but if we're being honest?" I added. "You bring most of it on yourself. You really need to have some humility."
The rest of the class murmured in agreement.
"Always tromping around like he owns the place with that smarmy mustache of his." Sara said to herself. "Its one thing to grip about work, but where does he get off telling me what to wear and how to behave in a bar?! Now he keeps telling me to hurry up and get married. Yeah, I'll marry my foot to your face, jackass!"
"And she's not listening…"
Sara cleared her throat. "Aaaanyway. Is everyone ready to leap boldly into this month's practical exam?"
"As boldly go where no man has gone before, as ready as always I think."
Then she snap her finger and then appeared the machine. But this one in different.
"Hold on..." Rean whispered.
"You noticed, too huh?" Fie asked him quietly.
He nodded. "Color's different, shapes' different. Yet it seems familiar somehow."
Did something happen over at Group A field study?
"Heh. Well doesn't this look like fun?" A noble voice intervened.
We looked by the stairway to see four students in white uniforms. I recognized Patrick who was in front, and those three with him had to be classmates of his.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Practical Exam)
I sighed as I shake my head. "I apologize for asking by what brings you here Patrick?"
"Instructor Thomas' class was changed to a self-study period today, so we thought it was the perfect opportunity for a little...cross-class exchange, if you will." He drew out a rapier. "Class VII seems to be the talk of the school lately, and we'd simply love the chance to get a little better acquainted."
"May I ask you something?" I look disappointed as I cross my arm. "Does this have something to do with the Mid-Term exam score?"
And now Patrick giving me the glare.
"Ooh. So that's why you're here." Machias scoff.
"O-Of course not! It has nothing to do with the Mid-terms. Why not try your steel against some real, human opponents, instead of that contraption over there? We'd be more than happy to serve as representatives of Class I. Allow us, if you will, to demonstrate the refined spirit and dignity of the Erebonian Nobility."
"I don't mean to be… boastful. But If I may be so boastful. That was quite the adorable little talk." I replied before smirking at him. "But that was also quite a mouthful, I assume you're used to that kind of talk?"
"Ohhhhhhhh daaaaaaamn!" Sara exclaimed as Patrick look piss up more "Well, looks like I've found today's entertainment." She clicked her fingers and the metal monster vanished. "All right, change of plans. Today's practical exam will be a friendly training bout between Classes I and VII. The fight will be four on four, with arts and item use allowed." Sara looked at us. "Rean, you'll be squad captain, so choose three of your classmates for your team."
"R-Roger that." Rean nodded then turn to us. He think for a moment then. "I choose Laura, Levi, and Alisa for my team."
"Now, hold on!"
Rean blinked at Patrick's sudden comment. "What is it?"
"Our team consists of four men. I dislike the notion of fighting against woman. It's a man's duty to protect the fragile flowers of womanhood, not to wound them. I demand a fight equal to the challenge offered. Reconsider your team."
"Pardon me, Patrick. But are you implying that women are weak?" I cross my arm.
"Of course not. I simply requested a duel between men. Is that so hard to understand?" Patrick asked
"I can understand it's a duel of honor. However, do you realize what you just said? Our female classmates are not weak as you claim. And what you just said not only offended them but you insult their honor."
"I must agree as well." Laura nodded as she is very displeased.
"Hey, you two…" Rean put his hands on me and Laura. "I know you're upset, but we shouldn't make a scene, especially not in front of them. Sorry, but we don't have a choice; I'll need to switch you out."
"Rean, why are you being so passive all of a sudden?" I questioned. "This isn't like you, Rean. Don't tell me you believe his words."
"No, I'm not saying that. But this is the son of Marquis Hyarms, leader of the Four Great Houses. If Patrick wanted, he could ask his father to bring about all of that and then some. Do you have any idea about the lengths a noble will go to tarnish the reputation of someone they dislike? I can't risk that for you and your families." Rean put a hand on his chest. "As the adopted son of my father, I don't want to bring him more trouble than he already has."
A brief silence persisted until it was swiftly broken by Patrick's haughty voice. "Is there internal strife amongst you, Schwarzer?" It was clear that his patience was growing thinner, which was ironic considering he was the one making Class VII delay the match.
"I cannot speak on behalf of my father," said Laura, "but I care very little about matters that pertain to one's status, as I have made clear before in the past. However, seeing as you have been appointed our team leader, I will respect your wishes. Just promise me that you won't hold back." She reached out and gripped his hand assuringly as she said that last point.
Rean eased his expression into a calm smile. "Wasn't planning on doing it anyways."
"Well, I don't like it. But… fine. I'll comply.. for now." I shake my head as I sigh.
Rean nodded to her before turning to face Class I. "Sorry for the wait. If that's the case, then I choose Gaius, Machias, and Jusis."
"Hmm…"
Rean's eyebrow twitched. "What now?"
Patrick pointed his rapier at Jusis. "He should have been among the ranks of Class I to begin with. I would rather hope a son of the Albarea house would need no demonstration of the nobility's refined spirit and dignity. Choose again!"
"Not again…" Machias grumbled.
Jusis silently snorted. "Hmph. One would almost think you're trying to postpone the inevitable. I must agree with Sullivan; you're testing our generosity when it comes to your criteria."
It seems I have to threaten his father and scold this foolish brat.
"Then I choose Gaius, Machias, and Levi." Rean turned to his classmate.
There were no words of discontent coming from Patrick's mouth, which likely indicated that he had no issue with the current lineup.
As both teams of four got into position for their duel, Jusis walked up to his class's team and whispered.
"Make sure you don't underestimate them. He may be a fool, but even a fool can be dangerous with a blade in hand. I'm sure his lackeys are also well-trained, whatever deficiencies they may have otherwise."
"I'll keep that in mine Jusis." I nodded.
However, I can take them on myself if I have to.
"Fencing Club or no Fencing Club…" Machias's eyes were burning with determination. "We'll see how cocksure he feels when we're through with him!"
"Let's have a good fight, everyone." Gaius remark.
"We'll now begin the training bout between our representative from Classes I and Vll." Sara announced. "Combatants, weapons at the ready."
The those brats pull their weapons out and so have we. I'll smack that prideful face of his.
"Begin!"
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Don't be Defeated by a Friend!)
Then the battle begin. I begin to duel against the blue hair boy and we both clash our blades but I easily deflect and overwhelm him while holding back. His rapier skills are not bad. However, compared to me. It's child's play. I perform slashes onto him as he was struggling to hit on me as I fought with virtue. I toss my Glaive into a wheel and damage the noble and I grab it as I backspin and then upper left slash him without harming his body. He was push back as he growled but on the edge of defeat. Then he tried to use the technique on me as I counterpose and counter attack he was on his knees. I sense an attack coming from my left side and I easily block it as I leap over my Glaive as I stab it on the ground and kick Patrick's face and then give Rean an opening to strike. And then Patrick growled a then unleash his technique at us as we took damage and then I use my Whirl dance at him and highly damage him and Rean took the opening and force Patrick back. Eventually. We won the battle and I pretend to be tired like they have.
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Practical Exam)
"Enough! The winner team is...Class VII!" Sara declared.
"Was there ever any doubt?" I asked. "We didn't make it this far for nothing, after all." Then turn to the blue hair noble."However, your skill with the rapier is impressive. I'm looking forward to challenge you again."
"How could we lose to this... this rabble?!" One of them muttered
"Watch your tune, noble brat." I gave a glare at the noble brat.
"Levi, it's all right." Rean said to calm me down as I sighed. "That was a good fight. Pretty intense, too- you had us on the defensive more than a few times."
Rean went over and was about to help him up when Patrick slapped Rean's hand away from him.
"Get your filthy hands off me!" He exclaimed before standing up...and he was a little pissed. "Don't you dare start acting like you're above me, Rean Schwarzer. Just because Ymir's lord took you in out of pity doesn't change the fact that you're a nobody without a drop of noble blood!"
"That was uncalled for." Elliot said.
He looked at us. "The rest of you are no better! Did you somehow think scoring highest on the exams would mask the fact that you crawled up from the dregs of society? What of you, Reinford? A family of upstart arms peddlers who think being flush with money is all the pedigree they need. And what of the barbarian and your jaeger-tot, I'm surprised they could even read the enrollment forms!" He then glared at me. "And as for you, Levi! You're lucky that you're an abroad student. I've heard that you wanted to know who you really are. But you know what I think! bet you were an accident! That your birth parent is ashamed of you and regret giving birth to an unpardonable, disgraceful, vulgar attitude mistake like you!"
Everyone gasped and that struck a nerve.
"Uhh, Patrick?" One of his classmates said.
"I think you might've crossed the line." Another one of his classmates added.
"Silence!" Patrick ordered. "You don't tell me wh-"
I zoom in front of Patrick and punch his stomach so hard and cough his blood which some panicked happen and once he was on the ground. I up my leg and slam Patrick's head on the ground causing a small crack without killing him and then I grab his neck and lift him up showing my angry side. My glare was like death itself as my shades darken.
"Levi st-!" I then Glare at those who tried to stop me and paralyze them with my spell.
Then I glare at patrick as he look at me with as he grasp for his life
"How dare you… HOW DARE YOU!" I shout with a glare and I even cast a paralyze on the two girls. "You don't know me! First you pompously your social standing like you rule the world, then you insulted not only the women, to Jusis of his status higher than yours, and now you insult not only Rean, Alisa, Machias, and me because we're commoners, but insulted Fie because of her being a Jaeger and Gaius as a barbarian because he's an abroad as well!? Because over some stupid petty grudge that we beat you in intelligence!? How dare you call yourself a noble! This country is shunned by the like of you! You only came here to put us in our place?! And now you insult me because I was a mistake?! First, you barge in uninvited, then you make us play by your rules, and then when you lose, you have the nerve to talk down to all of us! You bring nothing but shame to your noble blood. Express your frustrations if you must, but do you think that gives you the right to say the kinds of things that you did? You don't know me… what I've been through! How long I wanted to find out who I am! I have done nothing to deserve that insult! All you care about is yourself! You will never be a true nobleman like Jusis Albarea!" My tears pour out of my eyes from my rage.
"Woah..." Machias whispered.
"I've never seen him so angry." Elliot added.
Rean sighed. "To be honest, I'm at a loss of what to do here."
"Levi, that's enough." Sara said calmly to me where she stand. "Beating him into a pulp isn't worth it. Don't get yourself into trouble like you already have. Drop him."
'Master, she's right! You're this close to unleashing your power to anyone!" Luka exclaimed through telepathy.
'Calm yourself. He will pay but not today.' Hamsuke added.
"Tsk." I growled and then drop this scumbag. "You're a disgrace to a human being Patrick. You and your noble brats are the same." I glared at Patrick and then walk away and glare at those two noble female brats. "You two brats better keep your mouth shut… if you don't want to end up like him." I gave those two a warning and then I begin to cast a curse onto Patrick and his lackeys and those two girls once I left their sights and undo my paralyzes spell on everyone. I return to my dorm and enter my room and lock it. I was full of anger. Then my familiars appeared.
"Master…" Luka sadden.
"Shall we kill him?" Hamsuke asked
"No… it will draw too much attention. People will think I murdering him. He will live, for now. But, We shall visit his father. And threaten him and have him scold that bastard."
"Understood." Both of my familiars nodded.
I snap my fingers and change my appearance and then appeared an orb in my hand. And I was wearing a cloak and a mask.
"Let's go. We need to pay Marquis Hyarms a visit."
(? POV)
I watch the situation with Patrick and the scene he did.
"That little brat. I really wanted to kill him but he has a role in the further. Plus he will learn the error of his ways. Still. I should also assist with threatening his father if he refuses to listen. But I shall wait and see. And... I also need to take matters with anyone who would dare force Levi to leave the academy." I respond as I look mad. "Still… how is Class Vll will react to this."
I then turn to Class Vll of what happened back a the field using my magic.
"W-Wow… that… was really scary…" Alisa said as she felt a shiver down her spine.
"I'm aware he's strong… but for him to crack the ground like that…" Laura said.
Jusis look sad for Levi
"I'm sure all of us are surprised what just occurred. However, I'm not sure I understand, maybe you can clear things up." Gaius said as he stood forward. "What is it about nobles that makes them superior to those who aren't?"
Patrick looked at him
"I won't deny that I'm not from this country, that's as plain as the nose on my face." He added. "Back in my homeland, we don't really have anything like your class system so the concept is pretty foreign to me. Really, I mean no offense by asking, but I want to know what elevates nobles above the rest of the people."
"Wha..." Patrick stood normally but still shaken. "T-T-The superiority of nobles is self-evident. We come from families of distinguished linage, built on generations of tradition. That gives us dignity, refinement, and pride that those of common birth could never hope to possess. We represent the pinnacle of man's achievement. That is what makes us nobles!"
"Mm, I see. I've witnessed that dignity and refinement myself. I see it in how Laura and Jusis carry themselves. But that leads me to another question. I can understand the importance of tradition, lineage, dignity, pride. I get why those would matter, but where do you think they let you get off saying the kinds of things you did?"
Patrick was surprised by his words. "I...I..."
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Let's Study)
"Gaius raises an excellent question." Sara said. "I'd say this marks the end of our mock battle. Many thanks to the members of Class I for their gracious cooperation. Oh, and just for future reference, 'self-study' doesn't mean 'wander around outside doing whatever you want.' " She then rotated herself so she was facing the Ferris and whoever that brat is. "That goes for you two over there, too. Back to the classroom with all of you!"
The two students hurriedly nodded their heads and scampered back to the main campus.
"Oh, but before you boys leave…" Instructor Sara said as the male students were about to follow their companions. "I want to let you know that for your combat training tomorrow, I've decided that I'll be pointing out everything you did wrong today. In the meantime, I want you to really think about where you need to improve, both physically and behaviorally." Though Instructor Sara's face remained amicable, the tone of her voice made it clear that she was not at all happy with the way her students were bad-mouthed.
Patrick bit his lip and turned his back to everyone. "Very well. Excuse us."
"But first Patrick. You need to head into the Infirmary to check those wounds Levi gave you. I will be checking you as well for those injuries."
With that, he and the other Class I students made their swift exit.
Elliot heaved a sigh of relief. "Whew...for a while there, I was worried that was really going to get ugly."
"As far as I'm concerned, it already had," Machias refuted, showing his hand to the retreating students in white. "THIS is exactly why I can't stand nobles."
Jusis let out a groan of mutual disgust. "Please. Don't place me in the same category as that imbecile."
Instructor Sara cleared her throat, bringing back everyone's attention. "Okay, that concludes this month's practical exam. Next, I'll be giving you the locations for your next field study."
The students arranged themselves in a single file line and retrieved their monthly announcements on where they would be going.
Field Study: June
Group A: Rean, Alisa, Levi, Jusis, Gaius
(Study Location: Nord Highlands)
Group B: Elliot, Machias, Laura, Jusis, Fie. Emma
(Study Location: Bryonia Island)
So Levi going to be at the Nord Highlands. Good.
"Bryonia Island…" Machias muttered to himself. "That's in the far west of the Empire, isn't it?"
"Indeed. It's an island off the coast of Lamare province, known for its ruins. However…" Laura said.
"The Nord Highlands are beyond the Empire's northeastern borders." Alisa said. "It's past out Roer, on the otherside of the border."
"Since the age of antiquity, the highlands have been home to a tribe of nomads." Jusis added
"Yeah, now that you mention it…" Elliot said.
You're from the Nord Highlands, aren't you, Gaius?" Rean ask.
All of the students shifted their gaze towards the tallest member of their group, who was smiling to himself.
"Sure am. We've actually made arrangements for everyone in Group A to stay at my home in our settlement." Gaius smiled. "I hope you'll all enjoy yourselves."
"So that's why you had to visit the principal last week…" Elliot remembered.
"Yep. Oh but mind I also ask you all a favor." Sara said as they turn to her. "Please check on Levi for me while I look into Patrick. He's probably in his dorm room as he speak. I'm worried about him. And I'm also concerned with his situation as well. As well how he manage that."
They all turn to the crack on the ground.
"I did had a feeling he was holding back his strength… Still. Check upon him. And I'll update you all in his situation."
Class Vll nodded and then they begin to head to the dorm.
"So that is how things play out." I said. "I should look into him."
Then I change views and look into my Levi as he appeared in Ferdinand's office. There he sits in his chair where Levi is on the other side on his desk with the orb in his hand.
"I understand." Ferdinand nodded as he look serious. "I will scold and punish my son for what he has done to that young man… I'm… quite a shame for his actions."
"Hmm… you are a wise noble. Perhaps one of the true ones." Levi said in a mask voice. "Very well. I will leave you be. I expect you to scold him properly for his foolishness. And if you cause trouble for him. I will dispose of you and your son. And destroy your position of power."
"I don't know who you are… however… I do know this… you are a very dangerous individual. One I mustn't upset. I will keep this between us… whoever you are."
"Good. If word of this spread. You know the consequences. I will allow you to do as you please. I will not interfere in whatever you do. Until then Marquis. And who knows. I may even aid you." Levi said and then vanished
Then see Levi teleport to his room and then change back. Levi was in his bed being comforted by his familiar.
(Levi's pov)
(Trails of Cold Steel ost - Whereabouts of Feelings)
I am pleased that Patrick's father is wise. However. I'm still so angry I want to kill him. But I can't… no matter how much I wanted too. Then I sense my classmates' presence coming to the door. They knock on the door.
"Levi, you feeling okay?" Rean ask on the other side of the door.
"Why did you guys come back…" I asked in distress. "You all saw what I did."
"Yeah well… but he had it coming." Machias said on the other side of the door. "And to be honest. I'm happy that you punch that arrogant attitude of his. No one blames you for what you did."
"Yeah… what he said is really discourteous." Alisa added on the other side of the door.
"There wasn't even a slight of honor from that imbecile's words. Anyone would have done just that." Jusis said behind the door. "Even I was quite furious how outrageous he was with his words. As well as the fact that I would likely like to join in the battle."
I said nothing as I look at the floor.
"I understand that what he has said is undoubtedly uncalled for. It really struck a blow on you. And he has no right to say that. I know it's hurt badly. I would have done the exact same thing." Rean said from the other side of the door. "Is it alright if we come in?"
I sighed and then my familiars disappeared as my tears still poured from my eyes. I went to the door and open it and then head back to my bed and sit. Then Rean and everyone else enter to cheer me up. I begin to cry for a few minutes. Rean, Jusis and Elliot sit on my bed while everyone else stand. After I calm myself. I let out a sigh.
"Thanks guys… I'm… I'm really lucky to have you all." I sniffed as I wipe the tears from my eye with the tissue.
"We're friends, aren't we?" Rean smiled.
"Yeah. I know it must be really hard for you." Elliot nodded. "You feeling okay now?"
"Yeah. I'm okay now." I nodded as I sigh. Then I recalled what happen at the field. "Oh, right. What happened back at the field?"
The group recalled.
"Oh, right. Instructor Sara ask us to give you this." Gaius said and then handed the paper to me and I look. I look surprised.
"Nord Highland?" I gasped. "Hehehe… It's been a few months since I been there… I feel… happy and... This means I can finally see the areas I was forbidden to go to. Won't it? I'm happy. Really…really…happy."
"We have a feeling you might be."
"Do forgive me for asking … and at a time like this… but if it alright with you… may I ask what was that you did back at the field?" Laura asked
I sighed. "You mean the glare?"
"Yeah, I was wondering about that too. I have never seen any glare like that. It was like staring at the eyes of death. It even paralyzes me." Fie nodded.
"Well…" I begin to think for a moment. "That's just how angry I was. My Grandfather told me that emotions can be a powerful thing. Not just for expression. But for as a weapon."
"That's a rather interesting way of putting it." Alisa said.
"But he's not wrong." Elliot replied.
"Yeah. Emotions are what make us human. We feel… we express it. That glare was a technique my grandfather taught me to intimidate my foes. And channel my anger into it. What that bastard Patrick just said click the trigger. It was enough to paralyze you guys as you saw."
"Yeah, That was rather intimating."
"And we were all surprised how you even manage to crack the ground like that." Emma added
"Oh that's just part of my strength but my anger fuel it." I said. "Even emotion can become your strength if you pour your feeling into it. Anyway. I have no regret for what I had done to Patrick. The Scum had it coming. Tomorrow is going to be… troublesome with those rumors and students talking about me… I wouldn't be surprised if I was summoned to the principal's office and Patrick call his daddy. But don't worry about me. I can handle it. Besides… someone got to shut up those gossipers."
"Levi…" Rean look at me sad.
"It's alright. I'll be fine… right now. I need to be alone just for a little while, K?" I then got up and exit my room.
I begin to head to the Bathroom and take a bath and let out a sighed.
Wow. I know Patrick is an ass but he has really gone too far. Levi is heading back home but finally travels to different places in Nord. I hope everything is okay with his situation. Oh yeah. I also need to work on the Links too.