Trails of Cold Steel IV - The Great Twilight

by mysteryfriend16

Sequel to Trails of Cold Steel III - Year of 1206. The Great Twilight has been brought forth to bring the end of the world. However, Levi vow to deliver judgment to Osborne, Alberich, The Ironbloods, George and Ouroboros, and find a way to destroy the Curse of Erebonia and the Ebon Knight Ishmelga. Together with Rean, Class VII, and their allies to put a stop to this.

5. Act 1 Lamare

Dateline, Augest 9th, 1206

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Eryn, the Hidden Village)

Today is the day we discussed with Roselia about the sudden increase of the Great Twilight and above all else we learn and gathered. Ash got some new clothes that suits his style.

"This is troubling." Roselia hummed "The Great Twilight is advancing further and further."

"Yeah, it spread as far as Sutherland and Kreuzen now." Elliot nodded "With all the requisitioning and conscription, the regular citizens are feeling the pnch more than ever."

"Jusis' absence hasn't helped morale, either." Fie added "IDF are keeping order, so there haven't been any major disturbances yet."

"It's the same situation at Saint-Arkh." I sighed "Hyarms mansion went through the same thing it seems."

"Heimdallr's not immune either, if the rumors we've heard are accurate. And they're launching training for the new recruits at bases all over the country." Sara said

"Already?" Juna asked. "Wow, the war's starting to feel that much more real."

"And with the curse spreading, it's pushing things rapidly." Cedric muttered "The Great Twilight is amplifying everyone's resentment and converting it into aggression to fight. Chancellor Osborne and Governor-General Rufus are adept at riling up the citizens."

"Not to mention all the support they'll be getting from Major Arundel and Major Rieveldt." Altina added.

"The odds are against us at the moment." I sighed.

"And let's not forget about Phoenylocks, either." Ash added.

"Oh, right. Just what happened on the Pantagruel, Ash?" Sara asked

"Yeah, did you get a chance to talk to Musse?" Juna added

"Not really, she just told me what happened while I was out." Ash answered "Tch, sounds like everything's going down exactly like she thought it would. Maybe escaping with the Hector was just me playing my role."

"We heard a little about that from Jusis." Elliot said.

"Getting Aurelia Le Guin and the Azure Abyss on your side isn't easy. Show she's not all talk, if nothing else." Sara added

"It's not so strange when you consider the Cayenne family's ties to the Imperial family." Roselia stated. "Mediating has been in their blood since ancient times. Perhaps that aspect of the family has peaked with her, ironic as it may be."

"Mediators, huh?" Kurt asked

"Look, Musse is Musse. That's what's important." Juna stated "We got Ash to rejoin us, so we can get her back, too!"

"You're right." Altina ndoded. "Once we talk things out with her, everything else will fall into place."

"Hmph, i'm warning ya, it won't be as easy as it was talking me around." Ash comment

"That's true. But anyway, we should discuss where we should head next. I say we should head to Lamare to find the singularity." I suggest

"I was thinking the same thing." Roselia nodded "You can set out tomorrow. At least take one more day to rest and recuperate."

"Right. I know we all want to find Rean, but it's important not to overwork yourselves. It won't be good if you're not in top form. Not to mention Lamare is also a large territory. We need to be patient so we can search properly."

"Levi's right." Fie nodded. "Sara, Elliot, and I are going to start gathering Intel again tomorrow, as well. You want one of us to join you as backup, Levi?"

"We don't mind the extra help, but that's all up to you. But to be honest. I think it's best that it's just the seven of us. If we add more, It would draw too much attention. Plus I know I have faith in you guys. Both for the rescue we need and any intel we can get."

"Agreed. We can handle ourselves." Ash nodded. "Plus Mr. Popular here is a monster compare to all of you."

I frown "Sheesh, thanks Ash."

"But he's not wrong you know." Elliot smiled.

"Charming as ever. But he does raise a valid point nonetheless." Sara nodded "But if you want to do some training in the meantime, I'd be happy to join you in the labyrinth."

"Speaking of training. Rose, there's a phase 2 in the labyrinth, right?" I asked

"Of course. I already set it up by the time you return yesterday." Roselia answered.

"All right." I nodded before turning to the new Class VII. "If you're planning on going to the labyrinth, be sure you to call us so we can train. Oh and Ash. Let's head to Gandolf's workshop as well. We should upgrade your ARCUS II while we're add it."

"Got it." Ash replied

And with that. We begin to Gandolf's workshop and then we begin to talk with him to upgrade Ash's ARCUS's as well. Once that happened. We begin to take a break for the time being. And then I've noticed Kurt was heading towards the teleportation stone. I should follow him. But he already teleported away. He should arrive there by now.

"Going somewhere, Kurt?" I asked as I teleported to him.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Witch of the Quiet Forest)

I teleported in front of him.

"Oh, Levi." Kurt replied. "Perhaps I should be thankful that you appeared."

"I always I that affect on people." I nervous smile. "But what brings you out here? Wait, hmm?" I glimpse to the direction where Roselia came from.

"Ah, Hello Kurt, Levi. Out for a stroll?" Roselia asked. "This is relatively safe, but you never know what horrors might suddenly be sprung upon you."

"Speaking of horrors. I sense an overwhelming power coming from the direction you came from. I take it that a cryptid show up?"

"Correct. Black Peroma Grass bloomed this morning, accompanied by the appearance of a cryptid. And though it isn't as intense as when a singularity occurs, there have been local disruptions from the spirit veins. It happened during the civil war as well. Troubles never stops for long, does it?"

"No doubt about that. Still, we better do something about it."

"Well you can, but for your students, and I mean no offense, but they'd be taking on more than they are equipped to handle. Even with the help of the old Class VII. If you're planning on challenging it, then you will have to do more of the work."

"So it's that strong for even them to handle."

"Indeed. You and the rest of old and new Class VII can fight it. But if will be your responsibility. Just so you know that."

I nodded. "I'm aware. No doubt it's good training for all of them which will come in the handle. But I'll discuss this with everyone else. But there are some points that everyone can handle it, once they continue to train and grow stronger without my help."

"Indeed. Should their abilities improve, they may one day defeat opponents who currently exceed their level." Roselia nodded "That reminds me... This creatures seems to be guarding a most useful item."

"A useful item?" I hummed. "Hmm... I think I know what item you're talking about. Anyway, thank you for the advice."

"By the way, you may now access the second sector of Saint-Gral Labyrinth. Taking breaks to recuperate is important. of course, but so is presistant training as part of a larger team."

Kurt nodded. "Yes, I'll take your advice to heart!"

"So then, Kurt. If you want to explore the area. Why not call Juna and the others." I suggested

"Yes, I was thinking that. Perhaps we should do our training at Saint-Gral Labyrinth now."

"Of course." I nodded

Dateline, August 10th, 1206.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Now, Things to do)

After yesterday, Kurt and everyone else did their training at Saint-Gral Labyrinth. We also face that cryptid and they gain much experience. We also got a Lost Art. We haven't seen those in two years. It will prove very useful.

So there was a big chance of us going to visit Ash's and Musse's hometowns. Speaking of Musse, we hoped that we would see her and hopefully, get some answers before asking her to come back to us. We also hadn't forgotten our other goals, such as finding the other branch campus students and if there's another Spirit Shrine somewhere.

"Okay, Rose! We're ready to get going!" Juna declared

"Very well, be careful." Roselia replied. "There's a teleportation stone in Lamare that can bring you back here when you're finished. Go north from the woods, and the pendulum should guide you the rest of the way. I have your Panzer Soldats standing by, so feel free to take them with you."

"They'll come in handy I'm sure." I said. "I wonder when I'll be able to see mine again..."

"Ash, your hometown is in Lamare, right?" Kurt reminded.

"Ooh, that's right." Sara agreed. "Raquel, the entertainment city. I wonder how it's doing?"

"Yeah, especially after what happened before." Juna trailed off

"I'm a little curious myself." Altin added

"Eh, it might be fun to see the place again." Ash said. "But don't worry, I've got a disguise ready. No one'll recognize me."

"Let's do hope that is the case." Venti said.

"If you're ready, shall we head for the woods?" Elliot asked.

Fie nodded. "Yeah, let's get going."

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Witch of the Quiet Forest)

We made our way to Eerie Woods.

"So, uh, which way is it to Lamare?" Juna asked

"Just a left turn ahead and then it's a straight short north." Elliot answered

"Everyone going to Heimdallr will need to take a different route." Fie added

"We'll be splitting up soon. Let's all keep in touch." Sara stated

Once we reach the fork in the road, we turn left and found the teleportation stone leading to Lamare. And the two soldats were there already.

"Well, here we are." I nodded. "Once we use this teleportation stone, we'll have a long road to come back."

"What, you're telling me we can actually teleport with those things?" Ash asked

"Sure can!" Juna answered. "We came back from Sutherland with them, remember?"

"According to Emma's grandmother, they derive power from Valimar, so it posses no problem." Kurt added "Regardless, we still have a fair bit of walking before we're out of the woods."

"Right." I nodded beturing turning to my Instructor and my two classmates. "Welp, we better be going."

"Alright then, take care of them, Levi." Sara replied.

"Will do." I responded. "Okay, class, let's hit the road."

"See you later!" Juna nodded

"You're heading to Heimdallr to gather info, right?" Altina asked

"Everyone in the capital is on high alert. Please take care." Cedric advised

"This kind of work is my bread and butter." Fie smirked

"Great, we good to move out now?" Ash asked

"Yep!" Juna answered

We waved at Sara, Fie and Elliot, and we used the teleportation stone to arrive at a new part of the woods. This one is more beautiful with the springs and waterfall.

"Ah... We're surrounded by springs." Kurt said.

"Waterfalls, too." Altina added

"Ah the wonderful beauty of nature." Venti smiled.

"It's wonderful to explore something new." Cedric comment

"Anyway, if you're done gawkin', let's keep moving already." Ash advised.

Some monsters were present, but they were only minor issues for the seven of us. I was curious on how Ash was feeling, and I wondered if he was now free of that pain he had in his left eye. I guess I could ask him at a later date.

"Wow, this is just beautiful." Juna smiled as we walk by the views of springs, waterfalls and nature itself.

"You might even describe it as 'magical'" Altina nodded

"I can't wait to tell Alfin about this." Cedric smiled

"Hehe, the beauty of Mother Nature." Venti smiled

"It truly does make me want to sing here. Nature itself will be my audience." I smiled

We begin to take on some strong monsters that block our way. We soon reached the next teleportation stone.

"That's the teleportation stone for Lamare." Juna said.

"That is quite far from here." Altina stated

"This magic stuff weirds me out, but teleporting sure is convenient." Ash added

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Towards That Land)

We activated the teleportation Stone and then we were teleported to a huge open field with several small rocks and hills. Hmm... this places looks familiar. Ah! It's Avon Hills.

"So, uh, we ARE in Lamare, right?" Juna asked.

"This area's covered in hill as far as the eye can see." Kurt said. "I don't believe we came across anything like this during our field exercises here."

"This is southeast Lamare territory." Ash added. "What you're lookin' at here are the Avon Hills. Pretty sure this place is just past the canyon east of Raquel."

"That's right. I actually been here before but traveling." I replied. "This place is basically somewhere that was beyond our field exercise range back in June." I said. "At least the soldats made it with us. Altina?"

She nodded. "Black Shade!"

The soldats then vanished under a stealth barrier.

"Don't think I'll ever get used to that." Ash said. "You really fit right in with all this occult stuff."

"Hehe. You and I can agree with you there." Cedric nervous laugh.

"Anyways...where shall we begin?" I asked. "At the moment, it's possible we can enter Raquel, but I'm rather curious about whether we'll find another Spirit Shrine. Another one of our soldats, or with a bit of luck, where the other students are, and Musse's whereabouts."

"Well, if it were up to me, we'd head right over to Raquel. But we should probably drop by Milsante first. It's just east after we get past all these hills." Ash suggested

"Milsante?" Juna repeated.

"From what I've heard, it's a town that the railway line passes through." Kurt said. "Though, I've never been there myself."

"Yeah. You can barely call it a town, really." Ash replied. "But it brings in all kinds of tourists. It's set up right next to a lake and everything. We might get some intel on Grenville and Leeves while we're at it. They're on the other side of Milsante."

"Leeves, huh?" I responded. "We'll need to find out what's going on over there while we're at it."

"Agreed." Kurt nodded. "I'm starting to get a grasp on the geography."

"It was our home away from home..." Juna sadden. "Now I'm kinda worried about how everyone's doing over there."

"In any case, it seems wise for us to stop off at Milsante before heading anywhere else." Altina said.

"Alright, let's get through the hills and make our way to Milsante." Cedric

"And judging from this. I say it's a long way. So time to bring out the horses. Oh. Do you know how to ride horses, Ash?" I asked

"Of course I know how to ride horses. I ride them occasionally before those sweet bikes were invented.." Ash answered with a smirked

"Really you bad boy? It's a pity, you would have fit so well In the riding club." Venti replied.

"Very true, but it can't be helped. Now then." I snap my finger and then the horses appeared for all of us riders. I took the brown one. Ash took the black one. Kurt took the white one. Juna took the light brown one. Cedric took the light brown one too and Venti took the brown one.

"Man I'm glad we have the horses here. Now let's ride." Ash smirked. "Yah!" And then he was the first to gallop and then begin to gallop and follow him.

As we ride the Avon hills. As we ride, we admire the views.

"Wow! What a view!" Juna complimented

"Seriosuly. I'd heard about Avon rock formations, but these are just breathtaking." Kurt nodded

"The topography here is reminiscent of Nord Highlands." Altina added

"It truly does, doesn't it?" I smiled. "I wonder if Master is okay."

"I've never been to Nord but I heard it's a beautiful land. I hope one day I see and ride the Highlands." Cedric said.

There were a few small battles we had to put up with along the way. But since there was now seven of us, I could afford to stand back and support the other six in case they needed me.

"Glad we have the horses here. You wouldn't have one of the bikes with you, Levi?" Ash asked

"Sadly no. I was focused on the horses." I answered.

"That's a shame. Well, whatever. We can still ride regardless."

As we ride along the way. I can feel like we're almost the exit here.

"We keep goin' this way, we'll come out onto a highway." Ash said

"Oh, really?" Juna asked

"Makes you realize just how vast Erebonia truly is." Kurt nodded

"Seriously. It has many towns, cities, places more than I can count on." Venti nodded

"As Crown Prince, I often study the geography of my nation." Cedric said.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost Twilight Green Passage)

Soon we arrived at the Milsante Byroad. We can see the railway from here.

"There's a railway road here?" Juna asked

"Specifically the Transcontinental Railroad, I believe." Altina answered

"We should be table to reach the town if we past the tracks." I pointed out.

We continue to ride and then found the highway.

"And here's the highway." Venti said.

"Things are more quickly with the bikes or horses." Altina said.

"Milsante's should be around here. Let's head right, shall we?" I smiled

We ride towards the right of the highway until we see the entrance.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Wind Across the Water)

We finally made it to a small town. We dismount and the horses are back in my home.

"So this is Milsante." I commented. "Wait… I remember this place!"

"You do? You been here before?" Juna asked.

"I have been here about 13 years ago! I was here for a sunday school. I was wondering about where was the last time I ever been outside back as a kid. So it was Milsante. I remember a beautiful lake." I turn and then see it. "Ans there it is."

"Wow! I can see the lake!" Juna said.

"It's certainly quite the spectacle." Kurt added. "That rocky hill is especially impressive."

"It really draws you in." Altina nodded

"I never imagine I would visit a town that would uphold such scenery." Cedric smiled.

"Seriously, I'm on a debate on which places are more beautiful." Venti giggled

"Well, the town is pretty podunk, all things considered." Ash said. "Let's ask around, and if we don't hear anything, we can head to Raquel."

"Right. Let's go asked around." I nodded

Suddenly, I felt a faint presence nearby that was familiar. Hm? Who could that be? And then I notice Venti must have sensed it too. I always felt a strange connection with him for some reason too.

I shook that away as we walked over to Diana's general store, but it was more than just that, there was an orbal factory next to it.

"Well, talk about setting up a two for one sale." I replied. "I bet their profits go through the roof."

"It's got a nice, cozy vibe." Juna said. "I could spend a lot of time here."

"We should speak to the owner." Altina suggested.

We walked around the store and the employees at the counter were kind enough to tell us where the owner was. We walked up to the second floor and into a room where she was standing near a Victrola, she turned to see us.

"Oh, hello." She greeted. "Is there something I can help you with?"

"Wow, she's gorgeous!" Juna whisper

Altina frowned at her in silence.

"Excuse us, we were wondering if it was possible to reach Grenville at the moment." I explained. "Either by on foot or by train."

"Grenville? Are you sightseeing?" Diana responded. "I hate to say this, but I would recommend you avoid that town, given the current climate. Or perhaps, you have friends there?"

"Yes, that's right." Kurt answered. "Er, why do you say we should avoid it?"

"They've established a sizable conscription office in Grenville. Their recruitment efforts have started to encompass the neighboring areas. You're bound to face tightened security and guaranteed inspections if you head that way."

"I see why you would recommend keeping our distance." Altina said.

"And based on what Margarita told us, being spotted by them would be trouble for us." I added. "Also, Grevnille is outside the Lamare region, right?"

"Yes, it means we wouldn't find the singularity over there." Cedric whispered.

"Ah, so that mean it wouldn't match the conditions for the singularity we're searching for." Juna said quietly

"Well, I don't think you'll have any issue getting on the capital by train. Hmm, are you all students?" Diana asked. "I ask because there's a student from out that way who's been helping us out at the lakeside White Birch Inn."

"A student from Grenville..." I pondered. "...oh yeah. There is someone we know from over there."

"I see. Then why not pay the Inn a visit?"

"We'll do that. Thanks for the info."

She smiled. "You're very welcome. You all seem wrapped up in something substantial, so take care out there."

As we left the room, I did wonder if she had caught onto us. We left the general store and went over to the Inn. Before that. We begin to take a look at the lake from the Inn's outdoor observation.

"Woo! Just look at that!" Juna said in awe as we see Lake Gala. "The view from here's too die for!"

"It really does take your breath away." Kurt nodded

"Hehe. Why don't we all take a picture together with our ARCUS?" I suggested.

Then we begin to commemorate the moment with our ARCUS. once that was done, we exit the conversation and then enter the Inn. Once we got inside, we saw a familiar student with an apron on over his uniform.

"Well, well, looks like we're on the right track." I commented.

"Sidney!" Kurt called.

"Hey Sidney!" Venti also called out.

That got his and the store owner's attention.

"Oh, no way!" He responded. "Levi? Kurt? Venti? and Ash?! Juna and Altina, too! You guys are all okay! Wait… who is that with you? Holy- Ah, I can't believe it."

"Well here we are, so you gotta believe." I wink.

"And I thank you for not shouting out my name." Cedric sighed. "It would had cause trouble if people knew I'm here."

"Anyway, why don't we all set down. We have much to discuss."

They agreed and got ourselves a table for eight with free drinks of hot cocoa from the owner who said it was on the house.

"Your uncle seems real nice." Kurt said.

"Yeah, when the others and I arrived, he just let me stay. He didn't even ask me any questions." Sidney replied. "I've been collecting information on the surrounding area while helping out part-time."

"Wait, so you're saying some of the others are here, too?" Ash asked.

"Yeah, Maya, Gustaf, Sandy, and Leonora made it here with me."

"Really? So where did they do?" Venti asked

"They left Intel-gathering around here to me, so they're on their way to Raquel now."

"So just like in Sutherland, other students are doing their best to blend in and gather info." I looked at him. "And since you're here, I assume you couldn't get back to Grenville."

He nodded. "Yeah. I want to know what's going on over there, and I'm worried about my family, but..."

"Because of the conscription office, right?"

"Yeah, that's it. No idea about Leeves, either."

Juna sighed. "I really wanted to hear how the branch campus is doing."

"Well, just leave it to me!" Sidney replied. "Seeing you all okay is a real load off my mind. So I wanna do whatever I can to help you guys out. I'm sure you're all worried about Instructor Rean, but don't do anything too reckless, all right? No doubt, he's be just fine. He's got that ladies' man luck going on for him, after all."

"Speaking of ladies's man luck. Did you managed to get such luck?" I asked

"Heck yeah! There were two cuties I met along the way while riding my way back here. One of them gave a kiss on the check after I help them out. I never felt so happy and alive! And it's all thank of you, Levi."

"I'm not sure if I should take the credit. In any case, we should get going now."

"Right." Cedric assured. "So then, I guess our next stop will indeed be Raquel."

"Yeah, we should get going." Juna agreed,

"If you find anything out, give us a call." Ash said.

"Sure, and you take care of yourselves." Sidney replied as we began to leave the Inn.

We all gather near the Milsante welcome sign,

"I'm glad we learned that Sidney and the others are safe." Kurt said.

"Yeah. But there isn't any singularity here as well." Venti replied

"Right, we should-" my senses detected the familiar presence again. "Huh?"

"What's wrong, man?" Ash asked.

"It's here again..." I looked around the spot we were in. "...come on out. I know you've been watching us ever since we got here!"

"Hmhm, so I was found out. As expected of you, Levi." A voice replied.

We then turned around to see the source of the voice, that girl with long black hair...the other six stood back in shock.

"Huh?!/What the-/?!/Whoa!/ Wah!/Holy-!" The students exclaimed (Ash/Kurt/Altina/Juna/Cedric/Venti)

"H-hold on, how long have you been there?!" Ash asked in surprise.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost Behind the Lore)

"I'm terribly sorry if I...disturbed you. Heh heh heh..."

"Oh I recognize that laugh, there's only one person who laugh like that..." I sighed. "It's been a while, hasn't it, Beryl?"

"Wait, you know who she is?" Juna asked.

"Yep, Beryl is another one of Thors graduates." I answered

"Yes, but that was a long time ago." Beryl replied. "But please, don't be alarmed, I am a traveling fortune-teller now. And the fate you share is...most interesting. I simply had to let you know. Heh heh heh..."

"O...kay." Juna responded.

Altina frowned. "This all seems very suspicious."

"That's Beryl for you, students." I replied.

"Anyway, how about I tell your fortunes?" Beryl offered. "Allow me to make amends for scaring the students."

"Ooh, that sounds neat!" Juna replied. "Divine away, lady!"

"You're going along with this?!" Ash asked.

"I forgot that you like the fortune section in those sketchy magazines." Altina added

"Oh, c'mon! Who wouldn't be interested in their horoscopes?" Juna asked. "They wouldn't print it if it wasn't true!"

"To each their own, I suppose." Kurt muttered.

I nodded. "Go on, Beryl."

"Very well, let's begin." Beryl got out a crystall ball and it glowed. "Hm, I forsee good things in a place surrounded by water. You shall reunite with an old friend, and that will lead you to a new path. But alas, it looks like you won't be finding your classmates, or your teacher, or driving a stake into the earth here, either."

"Hmm, an old friend that'll lead us to a new path, but not who we're looking for." I pondered in thought before looking back up. "I guess you haven't changed at all, right...huh?"

Suddenly, as if by magic, Beryl was no longer present.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Wind Across the Water)

"No way!" Kurt gasped.

"How in Aidios name did she do that?!" Cedric exclaimed

"Gone...do you think?" Altina asked.

"Oh, I see...you have to excuse her. Beryl likes to vanish away after reading someone's fortune." I explained. "She did the same thing to me, and to Rean a long time ago."

"Tch. She almost got me believing in that occult bullshit." Ash muttered.

"But still, an old face and a new path. We should explore around here, there might be something that could relate to Beryl's fortune."

"Oh sure, my bad-I didn't realize it was 'National grab your arm on your sanity day'."

I frowned. "Har har, laugh it off. Still, we should find that location based on a fortune. I have a feeling she's right on the mark. Again."

"Good things in a place surrounded by water?" Juna hummed. "The first place that comes to mind..."

"The giant lake." Kurt answered. "We should check it out before we head to Raquel."

"All right, let's find the pathway down to the lake and see what's down there." Venti replied.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Twilight Green Passage)

We walked across the town and we found a pathway that led us downwards, closer to the giant lake until we could see a small area with a view of the lake itself in front of us.

"Wow! This is a really nice little spot!" Juna smiled

"It's even bigger up close." Cedric commented. "This would be an ideal spot for fishing, if only we had the time though."

"Yeah, it's got a good view of both the mountain and the waterfall." Kurt nodded

"That's Gala Falls and the Greyborne mountain range, right?" Ash asked. "People say they're the 'must-see' tourist spots here in Milstante."

"Oh! Well, hello there!" A voice responded.

We turned to our right, and there was a familiar person who approached us.

"Annabelle?" I asked.

"Well, hello there, Levi." Annabelle replied. "It's been a while since we saw each other back in Sutherland."

"You're Annabelle, right? From the Imperial Fishing Club?" Kurt asked.

"That's me. You guys are Rean's students, aren't you? It's good to see you're doing well, even though Rean isn't with you."

I nodded. "Yeah, it's been a bit of a rough going without him."

"I can understand why, after what I've heard from the other students. By the way, you haven't seen Kenneth on your travels, have you?!"

"I'm afraid not. We haven't seen him since our small class visited that fishing house outside Crossbell."

"So even he's unaccounted for." Kurt said.

Anabelle sighed. "I'm afraid so. Ever since the whole Incident in Heimdallr, I haven't been able to get in touch with him. To think that Rean is in such dire straits, too."

"If even we could make it this far, I'm sure Instructor Rean is all right." Altina assured.

"Yeah, what Allie said." Juna agreed. "And I'm sure Kenneth's doing just fine wherever he is, too."

That seemed to had cheer her up. "You know what? You're right. As long as I keep checking different fishing spots, I'm bound to run into him sooner or later. Lake Gala was my best bet, though. I guess it's back to square one."

"Speaking of spots, have you seen anything around here?" I asked.

"Well, I did find some weird hidden ruins back there."

That surprised us.

"Did she just say 'ruins'?" Venti asked.

We then looked to our right and saw the top part of a ruin shrine.

"I see, so we found another Spirit Shrine." I chuckled. "Beryl was right on the money as always."

"No freaking way." Ash muttered.

"That prediction was a little too accurate." Altina added.

"Well, I don't blame you guys for that. But Berly's fortune did help us in the past."

"Anyways, Even Lake Gala, my prime candidate, was a miss. This is getting exhausting." Annabelle sighed "My hunger pangs are settling in, too. I'm sure I'll get some willpower back once my belly is full."

She walked over to the lake and brought out her rod to start fishing.

"How do you even have the energy to fish at this point?" Ash asked.

"That's how devoted fishermen are sometimes." I sighed. "Once she starts fishing, she doesn't pay attention to anything else. That aside, we should prepare ourselves to go inside the Spirit Shrine Maybe we'll find another memory."

"Right. Maybe we may find something else while we're at it." Cedric nodded.

"We should make sure wer'e fully prepared first. It could be dangerous." Altina advised.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Sign of Gloom.)

We went over to the temple and walked inside, the appearance was similar, but it was more of a blue color.

"Thus place seems familiar, too." Juna said.

"Yes. It reminds me of the ruins of Old Agria Road and Byonia Islands." Altina nodded

"Oh, Yeah." Ash said.

"But this one is called the Luna Shrine." I said.

When we got past the doors, we entered a large area. The Altar area.

"I'm guessing this is the altar?" Juna asked

"It also bears a striking resemblance to the one we found in the ruins on Bryonia Island." Altina said

"But the only difference is that the previous one has stairs and corridors while this one just leads us to the altar." Venti pointed out.

Me, Cedric, and Venti then felt something coming.

"Brace yourselves, we've got company!" I shout as I got my Glaive out.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Malicious Fiend)

A giant snake-like monster appeared with its body circling around a crystal.

"Isn't this like the one we fought before?" Altina asked.

"Save the question for later. Get ready!"

I link up with Cedric this time

"Dance as one! Bard's Waltz!" Venti shout as he used his brave order.

With Venti's brave order. We begin to dodge the boss's attacks. It begin to launch some bite attack while we attack as it also attacks us. The boss let out its breath attack and we dodge.

"Hehehe, miss me!" Venti respond to a counterattack and got it unbalanced. "Gotcha now!" Then Altina follow with the attack and we continue to strike at it while each of them uses their crafts on this powerful monster.

Cedric use his craft flame sphere craft and let out a strong flaming slash towards them and unbalance It. "You're mine!"And then I follow up an attack and then the rest follow up. The boss launches a powerful art onto us.

"It's Arts is strong like the previous boss!" Juna exclaimed.

"Here!" Then Kurt use his Arts and heal us and then the monster was casting Arts again.

"Oh no you don't!" Ash use his craft and then impact the boss to cancel his Art.

"Nice one Ash. Now let's go!" Kurt said and then we all let our Crafts onto it and then once it was on break state. Then we strike the monster and it explode into purple light.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Ancient Oath)

We were able to defeat it at the end and then we saw a vision similar to before, but there was a huge black soul covering most of the vision.

"RELINQUISH IT TO ME...IT BELONGS TO ME...YOUR SOUL...YOUR ENTIRE BEING..."

"Dreichels...What was that just now?"

"Haha, it's been an age and a half, Lianne. You haven't changed at all from when I last saw you. No...if anything, you're more beautiful than ever."

The vision then faded away.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Signs of Gloom)

"It happened again. I saw it so clearly." Juna said.

"Another vision from the past?" Kurt asked.

"Could well be, it's like before when we saw that vision of Alberich and Zephyr." Cedric hummed.

"And now this time it's Lianne Sandlot and Drechels. But that black thing..." I muttered. So that thing is Ishmelga. "Perhaps these memories are resonating with us for some reason."

"And this time again. I'm able to see them all with you."

"Huh, it's all pretty confusing, but I guess that could be a hint." Ash said. "We should tell Schwarzer once he's back."

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Sneak Survey)

With that, we left the shrine return back to Milstane but then we exit Milstane. We got on our horses and we begin to ride. B Our next stop was Raquel. We soon reached a familiar road path that took us down the hill path before we entered the north side of the town.

"Here we are. Raquel, Lamare's very own Entertainment City." Kurt said.

"It's been two months already, but this place looks just as busy as ever." Juna added. "I guess we should start asking for clues about the singularity."

"There's a lot of solders around too, we'll need to blend in and..." I paused when I saw Ash putting on a brown wig and a pair of glasses. "...well, good thinking, but where did you get those?"

"What, the wig and glasses? Found 'em at a store back at the village." Ash answered. "Better than Schwarzer's disguise, ain't it?"

"It's effective, but that doesn't mean the rest of us won't be recognized. Anyways, let's gather info on this place."

Our first choice as the diner, we went in and the lady greeted us.

"Oh, welcome! Seven of you? Please sit where ever you...ah, you! For goodness sake, why do you always pop up so SUDDENLY?!"

Well, that backfired quickly.

"Well, i'm glad you're back safe. Welcome home Ash."

"Heh, you never change." Ash replied.

The chef and a young man then took notice, seems like Ash was much more recognizable than we thought.

"Wait, it can't be..."

"Haha! Seriously!"

"You had us worried there, Ash." The owner stated "You were falsely accused of being a Calvardian spy. But now you're back with your friends. I'm sure your mom led you to them."

"Hmph, I guess..." Ash replied.

Juna frowned. "Ash, just tell them how you really feel."

"This woman and your friends really believed in you." Kurt added

"Seriously, would it kill you to be grateful to them?" Venti also added

"Haha. I've known you since you were a kid. There's no way you would do that." The chief said

"Heh, I dunno." The young man added. "I can see Ash pulling off a double life as an assassin."

Ash smirked. "I'm going to take that as a compliment."

"However, I hear your instructor has gone missing?" The owner replied. "Things must be tough for all of you."

"Well, that part is undeniable. So far we're gathering information. So has anything changed around here?" Venti asked.

"Changed? Well, we've had a lot more tourists." The chef answered. "And some of them look a bit more well-off than our regular clientele."

"Well-off, you say?" I asked

"Yes, some of them come in with those nice suits and expensive dresses. I think I heard something about them coming from Ordis by limousine to hold meetings or something. I'm not sure." The owner replied.

I hummed. "It could be nobles or businessmen. But why are they here?"

"If you're going to sneak around, you better be careful." The young man warned. "We don't know who's looking where after all."

I glanced at him, the way he said it sounded very suspicious. What does he mean by 'We?'

"Heh, I don't need you giving me advice." Ash remark "Once we've got the intel we're after, we're outta here. I came all this way to see you, so stop standing around looking sad, got it?"

"Thanks Ash." The owner smiled. "Keep up the good work with your classmates."

We left the diner and made our way to the chapel before going into a small room to see a bishop praying.

"Hey. All that mopin' around ain't like you." Ash spoke to her.

"Huh?" She turned around to face us. "A-A-A-A-ASH?! It's... It's such a relief to see you. I can't tell you how worried I was! I heard this nasty rumor that you'd been arrested for something terrible, and I don't know what to think!"

"All right, all right, simmer down..." He sighed. "But that rumor you heard? It wasn't a rumor, I did shoot the emperor."

"Ash." Kurt whispered.

"Always blunt, aren't you?" Venti sweatdrop.

"...that's all right. We know you." the sister said. "There must have been other circumstances. Besides, no one is beyond redemption. Think of how far you've already come. You can atone for your sins. I believe in you. You may not be perfect, but you have a good heart, Ash. You're a good person."

No one is beyond redemption, huh? I think the actions of our enemies would beg to differ on that one.

"Seems the town of Raquel look up to you a lot, Ash." Cedric said. "But that aside, seems that a few things are rising up around here after the Great Twilight happened."

"It's true... People starting fighting all over the city. A strange wind blew, and these odd red and black flowers started blooming everywhere. The violence ended fairly quickly, but the eerie atmosphere has loomed over the city ever since. Even with the hustle and bustle from the increasing number of tourists, it feels like there's a darkness hanging over all of us."

"I've felt in two other towns as well." Altina said.

"Perhaps the short breather before the draft, was merely the calm before the storm." Kurt added.

"That's one way of looking at it." Venti nodded. "Thanks for the info, we'll be careful."

"You take care of yourself, Olfa." Ash said

She giggled "I'll make sure I do"

We left the chapel and the next stop was the bar and Inn, a blonde girl was working by the counter.

"Hey. Long time no see." Ash said.

"Me, my! If it isn't Ash. Always showing up unannounced." She replied. "It's good to see that you really were okay after all, I'm glad."

"Hmm, you don't sound that much surprised." I raised an eyebrow. "Did someone tell you?"

"Ah well, that's because a certain someone passed on the information to me. She said she'd been contacted by a classmate in Milsante."

So one of the branch students are here.

She's waiting for you on the second floor. I'll show you."

We nodded and we follow her and went up the stairs to a room and we saw a student when we walked in.

"Heh. Knew it was you." Ash said.

It was Maya, from the tea club that Musse and Kairi were part of.

"Ash, everyone. Welcome, I'm so glad you're safe." She replied. "I couldn't believe it when Sidney told me. I'm so happy to see you all. But where have you been? Please tell me everything."

We exchanged the news on what's been happening, hoping to find any leads on the other missing students.

"I see... So you showed up here because of it's connected to your father, who was a regular here." Juna hummed

Maya nodded "That's why Julia happily let me have a room to stay in. I originally came thinking my father might be here, but it seems he hasn't been coming by lately. I'm glad he's not drinking, but I did hear he was contacted by the military division he used to belong to."

I see. So that's why he's here.

"Was it the formal sniper, Captain Joseph?" Altina asked "I believe I saw that name in the database. If the military requested him to return, it's likely they also had him promoted. On that note, do you know what happened to Leonora and the others? I heard you came together."

"Gustaf, too. His mining town shouldn't be that far away from here." Ash added

"I heard Sandy's from Lamare, too! Alster specifically, I think." Juna also added

"Alster." Cedric look in surprised.

"That's name familiar..." I hummed

"Yes. Those two headed to their hometowns past the northern canyons. Leo went to Ordis, where she has a contact, to gather intel. There have also been sightings of a mysterious reddish-black flower in the canyon road area. Maya answered

"Could that be Pleroma Grass?" Kurt asked.

"It seems very likely." Altina replied. "So Leonora is in Ordis, capital of Lamare province."

"And Musse's hometown is Ordis. We visited there before during our field exercises." I nodded. "Do you have anything else on the state of affairs there?"

"According to Leo, collecting information in Ordis is pretty tough at the moment. There's the security details set up by Governor Regnitz, who was just appointed as the interim supervisor. And to make matters worse, there's also the 3rd Armored Division that is currently stationed at Juno Navel Fortress."

"Machias's father and the Third Armored Division..."

"One-Eyed Zechs, my uncle, is in charge of that division." Kurt sighed.

"We met the governor during our field exercises, but Kurt's uncle?" Juna asked

"He's one of the top three commanders of the Imperial Army- and the one who fought General Le Quin during the civil war." Altina explained. "If both of those men are in Lamare, it will be very difficult for our current group to go to Ordis."

"Well, that sucks." Venti sighed

"Dammit. This would've been a great chance to get some info, but..." Ash muttered

"And based on what you've told us, going to Ordis and the naval fortress would spell trouble for us." I said. "We'll need to stay away from both of those places for now. Thanks for the info, Maya."

"It's nothing... I just wish I could have been of more help. I'll try contacting Ordis to see if I can obtain any information on the singularity or Instructor Rean." She replied. "If I find anything, I'll be sure to let you know. I wish you the best in your efforts as well."

I nodded. "All right, time to leave Raquel and head on to the canyon road."

We left the diner and moved to an alleyway to summarize what we heard.

"It wasn't too difficult to gather information this time, given how busy of a town this is." Altina said.

"Yeah! And I'm glad things went over well for you, too. Ash." Juna smiled "You've still got a lot of people here that trust in you. That's got to feel good, right?"

"Meh, it's not like anyone would believe I was a Calvardian assassin anyway." Ash answered But, there is somethin'..."

Could he be talking about his friend?

"Forget it. Just talkin' to myself. So, what's next?"

"Personally, I found the information Maya gave us concerning. I'm honestly tempted to get in touch with my uncle at the naval fortress." Kurt replied

"I understand how you feel Kurt. However, I have to oppose that." I shake my head. "Security around Ordis is rigorous. We'll get caught immediately before we ever get the chance to meet with the general. Despite your ties as a Vander."

"You're right. It's too risky."

"Besides, we really should be prioritizing finding the singularity." Altina nodded. "Sandy and Gustaf reported something that looked like Pleroma Grass in the north. It may be wise to follow up on that."

"We're gonna waste a lot of time if it turns out that's not the place." Ash added

"Oh, wait! I think I've got it!" Juna said as she got out the pendulum.

"That's right. Rose said we can use it to find any singularities." I nodded "Think of it as a dowsing rod or a diving rod, if you know as it is."

"Dowsing rod?" Juna asked.

"It's like a type of divination employed in attempts to locate groundwater, buried metals or ores, gemstones, etc, etc. A Y-shaped twig or rod, or two L-shaped ones—individually called a dowsing rod. Think of it a detector and tell us which way to go."

"Oh, I get it now."

"I can't tell if you're making this crap off." Ash comment.

"If I was, then how did I explain it in full detail?" I remarked

"Touche."

"Hehe, he got you there." Cedric chuckled.

"Ugh. Can't believe we put up with this ridiculous shit." Ash sighed

And then it reacted.

"We look at that." I smirked

"You've got to be kiddin' me."

"Levi, you're right on the mark." Juna giggled.

Then I felt some sort of wind blowing to the northeast where the canyon road was.

"So we have to go northeast?" Altina asked

"Loos like it! Let's get moving!"

"Hah. I'll thank you to stay put." Someone said

Someone stopped us. We turned around to see a pair of suited men and a familiar face. I realized who it was straight away, from what Rean told me.

"Hugo? What are you doing here?" I blinked

"He's one of Instructor Rean and Levi's old schoolmates, right?" Juna asked

"The managing director of the government-allied Kleist & Co. Huge Kleist"

"What?" I asked in surprise when she mention government-allied.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Temporary Speculation)

"Hahaha! We meet again, Levi, and new Class VII." He said. "I've been hoping for a little heart-to-heart. One generation of Thors to another."

"Give me a break. You're the government's damn lapdog!" Ash exclaimed.

"Lapdog...so you've chosen to side with Osborne's influence?" I sighed. "I'm disappointed in you, Hugo. Whatever happened to the guy I remember two years ago? Aren't you even concerned about poor Becky?"

He looked away. "Now's not the time to be discussing such trivial matters."

"How did you even find us?" Juna asked.

"We have our sources. And we decided now was the perfect opportunity to make our move." Hugo replied. "Heh, speaking of our source, I'd say he's earned himself a little bonus."

Ash grumbled. "I knew it. That old dumbass sold us out...again. Bet someone else tipped him off."

"No, it's just him... It also that little brat who told us to be careful." I muttered. "It seems I may have a word with those two. Stand aside Hugo. If you don't want you and your men to have more than a few scars. I suggest you leave if you know what's good for you."

"There's no need for violence Levi. It's not like I'm after you." Hugo said. "We'll just borrow one of your students under your care."

"Hmph. Then you should know my answer that it's no. So why don't you tell us who the client who wants with Ash."

"I'm afraid that's classified information. I hope you understand. And so I would appreciate it if the dark-haired lad comes with me."

"And I would appreciate if you kissed my-"

"That's quite enough, Kleist." A voice intervened.

We then saw a familiar face with that hat and a well-dressed noble show up, he had long purple hair...wait, I recognize him.

"Rex...and Vincent? Is that you?" I asked in surprise.

"Oho, long time no see, Levi." He replied.

"What seems to be the problem, Vincent?" Hugo asked.

"Hah. I should think that would be obvious, Hugo. You are bothering my delightful guests. That's an aggressive move to make, after inking such a delicate agreement."

"And as journalist, I can't just turn a blind eye." Rex said. "I mean, I'm RIGHT HERE!"

Hugo turned to face them. "Haha, whoops...I was so convinced that boy was someone I knew. I was clearly mistaken, however."

The guards from behind the alleyway dashed away.

"Do excuse me for the trouble. Take good care of those guests of yours, yes?"

"Hold it. Before you go." I said to him. "I asked you about Becky, but do you know where she and Mint went off to?"

Hugo sighed. "I'm afraid I can't help you there. I wish I knew about them myself."

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Sneak Survey)

He then walked away with his guards in the limo, leaving us with Rex and Vincent.

Juna sigh with relief. "Phew... Looks like we're in the clear."

"Delightful guests?" I asked Vicent. "I'm guessing a noble graduate from Class I was helping behind the scenes?"

"Why indeed." Vincent replied. "I felt it was the proper course of action to address you and these young students as such. After all, we are your comrades who borne the Horned Lion Emblem."

"By the way... Levi mention your name is Vincent and Hugo as Florald. Are you by any chance Vincent Florald?" Kurt asked

"Ah yes, I shall introduce myself to the rest of you. I am indeed Vincent Florald! The eldest son of Count Florald, a proud Thors alumnus, and consummate hunter of love!"

Well, considering how much Margarita adores him, I'd say he's already found his love, hehe!

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - In the Darkness)

We then moved the topic to an empty room back at the inn to discuss more.

"Oh, so you're Ferris' brother!" Juna said.

"Indeed! I simply must thank you for helping my dear sister. It was much appreciated." Vincent nodded

"No problem. Glad we can help." I nodded "And it's good to see you haven't change at all. You as well Rex."

"Yeah. I woulda loved a chance to chat with both you guys and Margarita." Rex smiled.

"I see... so that's another reason why you were there covering Titis Gate, then." Kurt said

"So that part about Vivi, as well as the request for scenery pictures, were because you already knew about us." Altina added

"Yeah, I'd heard about you all from her before, and it just kind of clicked." Rex nodded

"Clicked huh? That's one way to put it." I said. "Before you ask. The answer is still no."

"How did you know I was gonna ask!?"

"It's literally written on your face. You're pretty much readable considering I know you." I smiled

"Man... Just how many weirdos do our Instructor and Mr. Popular here friends with?" Ash sighed

"Margarita certainly was a unique individual as well." Altina nodded

"Hehe. You say it sound like it's a bad thing." I chuckled. "Anyway, we're all connected here because by Rean."

"Of course, there are some who broke that connection to walk a different path, just as Kleist did." Vincent nodded

"Yeah, I couldn't believe the way he acted just then. But judging how you two were discussing, both your companies enter an agreement?"

"I see you are as sharp as ever, Levi." Vincent's smile faded. "That was in regard to a specific...decision. The decision to not publicly recognize the Weissland Army."

Weissland Army? That's the one that's under Musse's command.

"The noble power are not to recognize the Weissland Army's existence publicly. You are to cooperate with the draft. If you comply, we will only suppress those who directly collude with the Wiessland Army. That's about what the decision includes."

"Right, except that the Weissland Army does exist. I understand what the government is thinking since they're focusing their efforts on Calvard. And I bet they even censor Imperial Chronicle too. But in terms of numbers, they cannot match against the numbers of the Imperial army." I sighed. "I hate to say it, but I hope we find Musse, and soon. We need to tell her to stop. What's she trying to do will only lead to thousands of lives lost!"

Vincent nodded. "That, I cannot argue with."

"It doesn't matter." Juna said. "Just like with getting Instructor Rean back, we have business with Musse. For her to just part ways like that. The talk we need to have is with Musse Egret, specifcally. Not lady Mildine-whats-her-name!"

"Phew, you all are way too much. Even more than I'd heard." Rex said. "Rean's got some interesting students for sure."

"You know it, Rex. They've grown up quite a lot, but there's a lot more to do." I replied. "All right, we better get ready to leave Raquel. Vincent, Rex, keep in touch with us in case you hear anything.

"Indeed. I shall forward you of any matters that may be of concern." Vincent replied.

"I'll keep digging for info as well. Still gotta find Vivi after all." Rex added.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Sneak Survey)

We left the Inn while those two left to travel to Ordis.

"All right. The pendulum is swinging towards the northeast. So we sure make way there." I said

"I believe Sandy and Gustaf's hometowns are both in that direction." Altina added

"There's also a chance we will see Gustaf and Sandy again too. If we're lucky that is." I nodded but notice Ash was thinking. "Is there something on your mind, Ash?"

"Nah. So you're talkin' about Alster and the Aragon Mines, right? They're pretty far apart." Ash answered. "Well, the good news is we have the horses with us. Still, that's one hell of a trek no matter which way we start out. Better make sure we're all ready to go before we get out of here."

I've noticed Ash was staring at the alley there. He must be thinking about his home.

"Right. Before we go. Why don't we visit your home?"

Ash look surprised. "I don't see how that will help but fine."

We made a quick stop as Ash's home. Looks like one of his friends was taking care of the place. We stop for a quick drink and learn more about Ash's past. Then we begin to head outside. Once we did."

"Guess you're done giving your regards to your mom, eh?"

We spotted an informant and that young man, confirming my hunch was right.

"It's been a while, Ash." The informant said. "You really going to roll back into town and not even give a little-"

I snap my finger and created a soundproof barrier and an illusion from the outside.

I zoom to the informant and punch him hard in the face and give him a bleeding nose. Then punch him in the gut and knock him down as I stomp on his face. And pulled out my Glaive and pointed at the young man. He fell on his but as he scream in shivered

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Beyond a Little Hope.)

"You both got some nerve showing your faces." I gave the boy a glare. "For the boy. I'm very disappointed in you. For you to sold out Ash to this trash. It makes me how I'm going to punish you."

"Levi don't you-"

"Nah, let him." Ash interrupted Juna.

"And as for you, you disgusting pig." I glared at the Informant with a death glare and then stomp on his leg hard.

"Aaaah!" The Informant screamed in pain.

"I have been meaning to give you more than a mere punch in the stomach. But I ask my colleagues and friends to do that. But now you did it again. I will give you more than just a broken nose." I turn to the brat. "As for you Brat. Although i'm not interested in hurting you. I will at least give you a warning. Do this stunt again. I will not hesitate to harm you. Do. I. Make. myself. Clear." I give him the death glare.

"EEEEEEKKK!" The brat then go on a begging position. "I'm sorry! I'm sorry! Don't kill me! Please!"

"How about apologize to Ash. And never do this again. And I will consider it."

"I-I'm sorry Ash! I swear I won't do this again!"

"As for you." I pulled the put away my Gaive away. And then pick him up and ready to punch the Informant all over his face. Giving him two black eyes, I already broke his nose and then I dropped him. Then grab his arm and then break his arm by an Elbow hit.

"AAAAAAH!" The Informant screamed and then he fell on the ground.

"I'll let you live, you piece of trash. But if you ever pulled another crap again. You'll forfeit your very life." I threaten the Informant and then I kick him in the guts and then he passed out. "Phew! Man, I wanted to do that ever since he piss me off!" I cheered while the students' sweatdrop. "Sorry, you guys have to see that. But the trash like him deserves it." Then glare at the boy. "As for you. I expect you to keep your mouth shut. If you don't want to end up like him. I suggest you do as I say. Am I clear?"

"Y-Yes sir!"

I then cast a spell on him by revealing what I did. Just to be sure.

"Before you go." I said and then forward my hand and then use my power. Once I used my power on him. He suddenly feel sleepy and then sleep on the ground.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV - ost Sneak Survey)

"So I was right. The two morons here were influenced by the curse." I sighed.

"Thought so. Dumbass." Ash scoff. "Sellin' out to the government like that. But damn, you don't hold back, don't ya? I like that way of yours."

"Well, he's ruthless to anyone who put him in deep anger." Altina said.

"It's exactly as Altina said. But just so you know. I won't do that to anyone unless they deserve it. The scum here is an example. But I am sorry you all witness that. Normally I would normally do the same thing as Rose on what she did with Rean. But I was caught up on wanting to punch this son of a bitch that I forgot. Sorry you witness an unprofessional scene."

"It's cool man. I like it in fact."

"Well we all know you by know and it's understandable." Venti added

"Then explain to why by are you covering my eyes, Kurt?" Cedric asked as he remove his hand from covering Cedric's eyes.

"Trust me, Your Highness, you shouldn't witness such a scene." Kurt replied

"He's right Cedric. You're too pure to witness such an awful scene."

"I'm 17. I'm nearly an adult." Cedric frowned.

"In any event. Let's get going." I suggest.

"But are you sure you should leave them here?" Altina asked

"It's fine. There's nothing both of them can do. I place my spell on the boy from keeping his mouth shot. While the scum is bad luck. They won't say anything. Promise~"

The students' sweatdrop.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Between the Cliffsides)

We finally left Raquel through the northeast exit. I need to stop this curse from affecting the people of Erebonia. But I need to destroy Ishmelga to do that. But the question is how. I have to be part about this too. We got on our horses and then we traveled along the canyon road where we found a sign with location names on them.

"There's a fork in the road." Altina said.

"Jurai's to the left. The right's mostly just mines and borderlands." Ash added.

"Jurai? Isn't that where Stark is from?" Kurt asked.

Juna nodded. "Yeah. It doesn't like he's working with Maya and Gustaf, though, so..."

"Jurai..." I look sad as I look at the direction towards Jurai. shake my head. "Check the pendulum."

Juna got it out. "The pendulum's pointing this way.."

"Then we must be getting close, let's go."

We took the right path, we then heard a military truck traveling along the road, We got out of the way but I use my magic and created an illusion like we're not here as the truck past by. Then we saw someone sneakily get out of the truck as it passed by.

Huh? Another student?

"Phew...made it through without being spotted." He said. "Still, there's gotta be something I can do about all this..."

Venti gasped as I knew who it was.

"Gustaf!" Venti called out

He turned to see us and we dismount our horses.

"Levi! Class VII? And Ash is with you?" Gustaf exclaimed

"Yep, it's us all right." I wink

"Wow, never thought I'd run into you guys way out here. It's good to see you again, Ash. I'm glad you're back with us. Don't worry about the past, all right? Focus on the future."

"Yeah, thanks for that, Father Gustaf. Give me some credit." Ash sighed "I know you'd get through all this somehow, so y'know, whatever."

"Heh. Thanks, I guess."

"Aww, leaving me out of this reunion?" Venti pouted

I clear my throat. "In any case. You came here to check on your hometown, Gustaf?"

"A military truck just passed by this way with a lot of miners." Altina added

Gustaf nodded "Yeah, everyone from Aragon and Sachsen's heading out on a large-scale job. The military got involved, and they're calling for more and more workers."

"Considering they need more materials. I'm not surprised." I muttered "They need all the irons from the mines to get work on the tanks, soldats, and railway cannons. With the curse taking effect. It's going well."

"Definitely. Everyone I talked to said they're getting worked to the bone, all day, all night. I wish there was something I could do about it, but finding the other branch campus students takes priority. Same foes for the instructors, right?"

"Yeah, you're right. Good luck on that." Venti nodded

"We got our own stuff to deal with, so just do what you can without us, got it?" Ash request

"Yeah, I was planning to meet up with Maya and the others after I investigate Jurai, anyway." Gustaf nodded "If you ask me, though, you're taking your time looking for that singularity thing around the mines. There's so many people around, you'd think someone would have noticed if there was anything that weird going on."

"I suppose that does make sense." Altina nodded

"If the mines are out of the question, perhaps we should concentrate on the borderlands." Kurt hummed

"There's a lodge for travelers at the crossroads up ahead." Gustaf said. "It's a long way to Alster. But with the horses you gut. You should be fine. But it's up to you if you want to rest up at the lounge."

"Thanks, Gustaf." Juna replied. "Take care of yourself, okay?"

"Yeah, let us know if you need help or anything." Ash added

He nodded and left.

We got up on our horses and went onto Old Lamare Road, making our way through the canyon path.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Twilight Green Passage)

We saw a huge building, this must be the lodge Gustaf was talking about. We stop from a distance and dismount our horses as I send them back to my home. We went inside and got a room for seven, allowing us to take a breather.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - A Fleeting Homecoming)

"Phew... I'm beat." Juna sigh with relief.

"I'm was aware of the difficulties of climbing mountains roads, I do feel sorry for the horses that takes us here." Altina sighed

"Yeah. But the horses don't mind. They're happy they're getting some exercise." I said.

"According to the man at the front desk, this is the halfway point of the trail. We should only be about an hour away from Alster." Kurt said. "But on horseback, we should be there by 20 minutes or so. Though there's also a junction that leads to the North Ambria border along the way."

"Oh, right. That's where Valestein came from, right?" Ash asked

"Right." I answered "We should let her know if we learn anything about what's going to happen there. Considering that it's now part of the Empire. It should also be taking the effects of the Great Twilight."

"It wouldn't be out of the question for a singularity to be there, then." Juna sighed "Still, we should probably focus on Lamre for now.

"Agreed. We still have to search for Sandy in Alster, after all." Altina nodded

"We'll be cutting it close, but it does still fall within the bounds of Lamare. Come to think of it. Isn't Alster Prince Olivert's hometown?" Kurt asked.

That's right. Prince Olivert is one of the three guys who was killed when the Courageous exploded.

"Prince Olivert...I bet his loss came as a shock to everyone who knew." I said.

"Olivert…" Cedric sniffed

"You- I mean Cedric…" Kurt sadden.

"It's alright. I know how much it hurts you to Cedric." I sadden.

"Yeah… I won't forgive him… and the Gnomes…" Cedric wipe his tears.

"It'd be hard not to hear about it, even way out here in the sticks." Ash added.

Juna nodded. "Yeah...Sandy always seemed proud to know him, too..."

That was when two ladies appeared and they saw us.

"Oh my, who have we here?" One of them asked.

"Umm, can we help you?" Cedric responded.

"Do forgive me for butting in. I simply couldn't help myself. You are students, are you not? You've chosen a curious time to go hiking, what with the war on."

"We're on our way to meet a friend who lives in the area." Kurt said.

"I don't mean to be rude, but who are you?" Altina asked. "You don't look like you're from around here."

"Oh, me? I just drove down here from north of the Empire." The blonde girl replied. "I had a work assignment to take care of, you see, and-"

"A moment if you would." The other girl interrupted. "Miss Lucy, please. You can't just go around talking to random locals like that."

"Yes, yes, I know. But something about these young people simply piques my interest."

"Is... uh... everything okay over there?" Juna asked

"So you came down from North Ambria, huh?" Ash asked. "Judging by that fancy orbal car out front, I doubt you're actually from there. If I had to guess, I'd say you're actually from Remiferia."

That got the ladies' attention.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Temporally Speculation)

"Remiferia? Oh, I know that country." I said.

"Oh, my... Well, aren't you perceptive? It is true that I'm here in Erebonia for work, though." The blonde girl replied. "I had business to attend to in Haliask, so I figured this would be the best route to take."

I hummed "I believe that's the North Ambria's old capital city."

"Sounds like a long journey, even by car." Juna said.

"My turn, then." The other girl spoke. "You said you had friends nearby, right? In Alster? How exactly did you get to know someone who lives all the way out here?"

Well, this took a sudden turn.

"Why do you want to know?" Kurt asked.

"Oh, no reason in particular. You just don't look like your typical run-of-the-mill travelers, is all."

Now I was feeling suspicious, who is that girl exactly?

"Who'd hike up a monster-infested trail when you can travel by train or car instead? It's almost as if you're trying to pass through without attracting attention."

"Finally cutting to the chase, huh?" Ash asked.

"If you noticed all that, I doubt you're normal travelers, either." Altina said.

"Oh, but we're as normal as normal can be. You can check our passport's if you like. Remiferian passports, I might add." She answered. "I assure you, our entry into Erebonia was both completely legal and totally above board."

"And where are you going with this, exactly?" I asked. "I've noticed something else as well. You're awfully emphasizing those particular points."

That got her attention.

"There's no doubt your friend here is from Remiferia. But as for you, you're actually from Calvard, aren't you?"

"Oh, I get it now." Ash comment.

"I'm not sure what business you have here. But it's none of ours anyway. But considering with the war going on... Are you looking for an excuse to invade Erebonia, if the war with Calvard goes down in flames?"

She glared at me. "I'd recommend you abandon that line of questioning. We all have our secrets. I'd hate to have to shut you up here and now..."

"Oh really?" I got up and glared back at her as he felt the need to defend myself and to be ready for a fight with an Intimidating presence and glare. "I'd like to see you try, woman. But don't complain if you end up on the ground. With broken bones and a broken jaw."

"Tch…!" Now that woman took a step back as she clench her teeth and felt a sweat.

"Oh boy…" Cedric sweatdrop.

"Levi, control yourself." Venti stated.

"Dear me, things certainly are getting lively over here." A voice intervened. "But fighting simply won't do. This is a place of rest and relaxation."

We then saw a young woman with long dark blonde hair. I recognize her.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Little Rain)

"Our apologies, Miss Manager. I do hope we didn't disturb anyone." The blonde girl replied. "We were just leaving, but I'd love to stop by again sometime. The food here was just delightful, those vegetable dishes, especially."

"Please do. I'll keep a spot at the dinner table open for you. Oh, and feel free to take an extra helping or two-for the road."

She gave the basket and the blonde girl take it.

"You're too kind! Thank you so much," She smiled before turning to us. "I guess this is where we part. I hope you managed to meet up with your friend."

"Thank you." I smiled. "And good luck with you as well." Then give a dry look to the woman next to her. "As for you. Well. Well, bye." I gave her a look saying. 'Threaten me and my students again and you'll pay the consequences.'

"Ahem. Sorry for the trouble." She replied.

The two ladies left and I set down back to myself. Her friend doesn't seem to be the violent type.

"Nice to see you again, Edel." I smiled

"You to you as well, Levi. I must say, it's a real pleasure to see you again." Edel said.

"Likewise. The gardening club is always a heartwarming site with life."

"Oh, I'm glad you remember those days. How is my little Fie doing, is she all right?"

"She's doing quite well for herself, thanks to working with Sara."

"Oh, then that means." Juna pause

"Are you another of Thors graduates too?" Kurt asked.

"That's right. My name is Edel, and I'm currently the proprietor of this lodge." Edel answered "Though Levi here, and Class VII may know me better as the head of the Gardening Club. I was a year ahead of them."

"I see... this land must belong to your family, then?" Kurt asked

"Yes, my father is only a minor viscount, but we do quite well for ourselves, considering. Working here is a wonderful way to support my studies and hobbies both."

"Ya don't say." Ash said. "Bet you get some good business out of the middle of nowhere place like this."

"There must be plenty of people passing through on their way to Alster and he mines."Altina replied

"Yes. Even more so as of late." Edel replied. "Though most of them are miners or soldiers. You don't see many people like those from earlier very often."

"Interesting." Juna said. "Well, either way, at least we found another Thors graduate! This trip is shaping up to be worth it already!"

"I'm guessing the others made contact with you then?" I asked

"That's right." Edel nodded. "I'm up to speed with Vincent, as well as all the other alumni further east. Nothing from Vivi or Ferris quite yet, though. That said, the botanist in me can't help but be curious about those reddish-black plants i've been hearing about lately."

"That sounds like Pleroma Grass, all right!" Juna said. "Do you know anywhere that might narrow down where it could be?"

"Well, it's mostly been people from Alster talking about it. Those women from earlier asked about it as well."

"Olivert's hometown...' Cedric whisper.

"They must be up to something." Altina stated

"Were they also headed to Alster, by any chance?" Cedric asked

"Yes. They were only stopping here for one night." Edel answered "But apart from its distillery, that town doesn't really have much in the sense of tourist attractions. And with residents getting drafted left and right, it's hard to see why anyone would want to go there now."

"Heh. And here I thought this trip was gonna be boring." Ash smirked

"Hmm, sounds like our next stop is indeed Alster. If we look around there, we might be able to find clues on where the Pleroma Grass is."

"Yeah, that sounds like a good idea for now." Juna nodded.

"Then let's depart." Altina added.

"In that case, you'll need a hot meal to fortify you for the road ahead." Edel said suggested. " I recommend our lodge specialty- I grow the vegetables myself on my family's estate."

"That sounds delicious!" Juna cheered

"Same, it's been while since I've tried your sweet veggies." I wink.

And so we begin to take a short break and then our meal is here and we begin to eat. Ahhh that was refreshing.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Twilight Green Passage)

We waved and left the lodge, resuming our long trip onto the Old Lamare Road. We also brought the map.

"So... Based on this map. Alster should be." Juna said as she looks at the map.

"To the left. The path meanders quite a bit though." Cedric answered

"Well it's not getting any shorter. Let's get going." Ash Adivsed.

Once we left close enough no one can see. I summoned our horses and we begin riding towards Alster. We arrived a vineyard filled with grapes.

"Oh, a nice open area!" Juna said

"And that's a vineyard, I take it. Muller tols me about the ones here." Kurt said.

"Olivert mention the same thing. How I would love to see his hometown." Cedric replied

"Alster shouldn't be far from here. If we keep riding here. We'll make it." I said.

We passed a vineyard filled with grapes along the way, which I'm sure were used to make wine. We soon passed a few sheep.

"Aww, look at all those fluffy sheep." Juna said in awe as we dismount.

"Aww, I wanna sleep ing their woo." Venti chuckled

" Arent they adorable with their Baaa?" I asked

"They seem well taken care of. They must belong to someone in town." Altina replied

"You know. I just wonder if I can have one as a pet." Cedric said.

"Tch. Fields, sheep... we're in the sticks." Ash sighed

As the horses returned to my home. We begin to enter the town of Alster.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Lyrical Amber)

"So this is Alster." Juna said.

"Wow... Olivert's home makes me feel i'm right at home." Cedric smiled

"It's rustic and quiet, just like my brother said in his stories." Kurt said.

"Rustic? This place's got more tumbleweeds than people." Ash added.

"Being here brings back memories." Altina said.

"You've been here before?!" Juna asked.

"Just for a short while. I came here on a covert mission after the civil war. We came to engage some formal jaegers that had escape from the Noble Alliance forces."

"Oh, now I remember!" I said as I pal-fist tap. "Yeah, I remember that day well. I can't it's been two years. Those jaeger trash dropout cause quite the trouble. Even kidnapping a child too."

"They did what?!" Juna exclaimed

"Yeah. A lot of things happened. And we were surprised Altina was there too. We were here on a request from Olivert to deliver letters to everyone in town. Until the Crypid happen. And the Jaeger dropouts. And during the jaeger dropout to ki- er, arrest. Altina here was fighting with us to stop them at the end."

"You were about to say kill, weren't you?" Altina bluntly said.

"Give me a break. You know what those jaeger trash did? So they deserve it to have broken jaws and everything. But anyway. Still brings back memories of this place."

"There's still so much I feel I still don't know about." Juna said.

"A lot of things happened during the civil war." Kurt added.

Ash sighed. "Geez, even Little Bunny was throwing her weight around."

Then just standing by the well it's Sandy.

"There, that should do it." Sandy said. "Still, is it really okay for me to be here? Shouldn't I be off fighting with everyone else?"

"There's no need to do that, Sandy. I feel that you are doing more than enough in your own way." I smiled as I answer for her.

"Huh?" She turned to see us. "Levi?! Class VII?! Wait, Ash?! What are all of you doing here?"

We then went inside an Inn called Sunny Spot and we found a room to exchange what's been going on.

"Oh, so this is the tavern your family runs." Juna said. "I've heard good stuff about it, but it's even cooler in person! It's great you were able to make it back home."

"Yeah, but it's not really fair to everyone else. I mean, Maya and Sidney still aren't back yet." Sandy sadden

"I don't think you need to worry about it, Sandy." Kurt assured.

"Yeah, Gustaf made it back home after all." Ash said. "Anyways, your neck of the woods seem to be pretty sketchy these days."

"I am sure that your parents were relieved to see you, Sandy." Altina added

Sandy giggled. "I sure hope so! That was a really nice thing to say, Allie. You're just getting more and more thoughtful. It's great to see you back with everyone Ash!"

"That's all you got to say to me?" Ash asked "Damn, talk about underwhelming."

"Aww, someone is feeling embarrassed inside." Venti smirked

"Shut it, bard! Anyway, i'm a big boy, I'll get over it. Anyway, your neck of the woods seems to get getting pretty sketchy these days."

"Yeah, things really have taken a turn for the worse. It all began right after that... uh, 'Great Twilight' thing. Mayor Mathim used to be a really gentle person, but he's been getting pretty pushy about conception. It's not just him either. Some of the others in town have been acting just as strange. I think it's where the anger and despair over what happened to Prince Olivert is being channeled."

"That's the curse all, right." I muttered.

"Yes, I can understand well." Cedric nodded "The curse just fills the space in a person's heart with pure evil."

"Just like with those two idiot back in Raquel."

"Just thinking about it makes me wanna puke." Ash nodded.

"We all feel that same way. Stupid curse." Venti replied

"Now then, Sandy, have you seen any Pleroma Grass growing around lately?" I asked

"Only what I've heard. It's supposed to be connected to the singularity somehow, right?" Sandy responded. "I personally haven't come across any but I do know someone who has."

"Really? Who?"

I nodded. "All right, we'll find what we need, you take care, okay?"

"Yeah, I'll get in contact with Gustaf, Maya and Sidney." Sandy said. "If you do find the grass, please be careful."

Kurt nodded. "We will."

"Yeah, so you know Kai? He's usually at the workshop."

"Oh Kai!" I smiled. "I was wondering how that boy is doing. Been two years since I last saw him. How is his sister going? Actually, I'll see for myself. Did his sister Tilia seen it as well?"

"I think she might have. But not too far outside of town, I think."

"I see. Let's go pay those two a visit. Aside from old Class VII. Toval knows them too."

"Okay! Let's get going!" Juna nodded

"I'll get in touch with Maya, Gustaf, and Sidney again." Sandy nodded "I'll also contact some alumni and see if they can help out. Oh, right, there's also those two mentioned- the woman staying at the lodge. Something about that seems a little fishy... I mean, who just takes off in the middle of the night like that?"

"Hmm... Who indeed." Cedric nodded

"I imagine we'd acquire some useful information if we made inquire around town." Altina said.

"Then what are we waiting for? Let's get to it." Ash said

We left the tavern, and explored around the town, before we noticed a gravestone near a small cemetery and there was a name I never heard of.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Things to tell you)

"Lenheim? That's Prince Olivert's surname he used in Crossbell." I sadden looking at the grave.

"This is also the town where Olivert is born as well." Cedric added as he look so sad.

"Your Highness…" Venti look at Prince Cedric sadden

"According to Mueller, it's the name that he used while staying in Liberl." Kurt said. "From what I've heard, it's his late mother's surname."

Hmm, the more I learn about Olivert, the more I'm starting to think that maybe... maybe someday I will help him build that legacy he dream so.

"Well, since we're here. We should pay our respects to him." I said.

Altina nodded. "Yes, that would be the best we can do."

We went to the general store and bought a small batch of flowers before Kurt put them on top of the gravestone before we paid our respects to Olivert in silence.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Lyrical Amber)

After paying our respects. We begin to visit Kai and Tilia's house. I knocked on the door.

"Kai, Tilia, you there?" I knock on their door.

"Oh? Hey." A young boy's voice said.

"Hello. Yes, it is." The girl replied

We enter their house and they see me and Altina.

"Wait, isn't that-?!" Kai eye widen

"Levi and Altina?" Tilia asked

"Hello." Altina greeted

"Hey you two. Long time no see." I smiled. "Wow, you two grown-up."

"I-I can't believe my eyes... You're here!" Tilia cheered as she and her brother Kai walk up to us. "It's been so long! You have gotten so much prettier Levi!"

"Hey now, come on." I chuckled as I scratch my cheeks.

"Since the civil war, right? So around two years now?" Kai asked with a smile "If it hadn't been for you, I don't know where what we would've done!"

And so the nine of us begin to chat with them. I seat with the two Recalling some good memories.

"Oh, I'm sorry! We should be welcoming you in." Tilia apologize.

"Are you in Class VII, too?" Kai asked "I don't remember seeing you with the others last time."

"They're actually students of the new Class VII. The new generation." I explained. "In fact, remember Rean? He's their Instructor and I'm their assistant."

"Really? You both teach?"

"But where's Rean?" Tilia asked

"It's a long story. but... it's not a good one. Let's sit down and I'll explain." I said with a sad look on our face.

We begin to sit down and then we begin to explain everything to them.

"N-No way... Rean is...?" Tilia sadden.

"I still can't believe what's going on." Kai also look sad but also change his expression. "And you say that black grass that Tilia saw is the clue that leads to Rean."

"That's right. We're on a mission to rescue him. And those Black grass, Pleroma Grass are the clue to find his whereabouts. We been traveling far and wide for them as well as any information that can help us. So do you know where those Black Pleroma Grass you found?"

"I saw the black grass in Osgiliath Basin, north of town." Tilia answered "I was there to gather medicinal herbs, so I only came across it by chance. I saw them in the middle of the basin, though."

"That place huh."

"I haven't heard a lot about this place." Ash said "All I know is that it's somewhere on the outskirts of Lamare."

"Well, Osgiliath Basin is known as the Forbidden Land actually. There were a lot of ancient ruins there as well as artifacts. Not only that. But that very spot is where it all started. You both know where I'm talking about?"

"The very start of what exactly?" Venti asked.

"I'll tell you when we're over there."

"I'm surprised you know about that place." Kai said.

"Still, what kind of name is that?!" Juna asked "Is it okay to tell us about it?!"

"Well, I trust you guys. And you guys are with Levi too. It's not really something we would just share with outsiders in general. We've received a lot of help over the years. There was that incident with those 'jaegers' two years ago and the stuff with the artifact two years before that."

"It's our turn to help someone now." Tilia nodded "Although, we're hardly doing anything just telling you a location."

"Hey, don't say that." I smiled as I petted Tilia's head. "You two telling us the location is more than enough. We'll make good use of this intel so we can connect to those clues to Rean. Right guys?"

"Definitely!" Juna nodded. "And we'll get to the bottom of this for you guys too. Kai, Tilia!"

"We'll be sure to stop by once Instructor Rean has returned, all right?" Altina added

"Okay... We'll be waiting!" Tilia smiled

That location where the two Sept-Terrion's fought is to the north. Hoever, let's get more information before heading over there. We gave goodbye to the two and then we left their house.

We then went over to a distillery, a place where all the brandies and wines were made. I was tempted to grab a bottle for the road, but I don't think any of the students would approve. Sara would LOVE this place, however. Maybe I should bring her some. As we looked around, we noticed one person who had something on his mind and was holding a piece of paper.

"The first day of Summer...what the heck is this?" He asked. "Must be a prank, I guess."

"Excuse us, is something bothering you?" I asked.

He turned to see us. "Oh wow. I wasn't expecting any young visitors around here. I'm afraid we're not conducting tours at the moment. I'm sorry that you came all this way."

"That's okay, we're not here for a tour." I replied "So what are you looking at?

"Oh, we just received an order from Ordis for our next batch." The guy replied. "That's a normal occurence, but there was this strange sheet of paper added in with the other form. I've never seen anything like it before. I guess you could call it a poem? I can't tell if it has a particular meaning or if it's complete nonsense."

"I poem?" Cedric asked

"That's weird as shit. Hand it over, dude." Ash said.

"S-Sure." He handed the paper to us. "It wouldn't really keep me up at night or anything, but you kids knock yourselves out.I tried to decipher it on my own, but I couldn't get anywhere. It's yours if you're interested. I'll throw it out otherwise."

He then left to continue with this work, whilst we head a read of what was written on the paper.

'When Eight lions visit on the first day of summer, the maiden will wait in the north in vain, planning out her moves.

Waiting in the north...well, if I remember, north of this town was where the basin was and the lady in the north, planning her next move...'

Th-That's not something you don't see every day." Juna said. "There's gotta be a meaning behind it."

"This is quite... strange." Kurt "If we assume that this is applicable to us, we can draw a fair amount of parallels. 'Eight lions' who visit on the first day of summer. We could take that to mean members of Thor' Class VII, who've come here to Alster."

"And then this 'maiden' tat is waiting and preparing her next move..." Altina hummed

"Heh, it's gotta be her, right?" Ash asked. "I mean, she knew we'd make it all the way here to find this note. There ain't a lot of people that can pull that off."

"Yeah, you can never tell how many steps ahead she is." I added. "But as for what's up north..."

"The Osgiliath Basin, correct?" Altina asked.

I nodded. "That's the one...in other words, team, we have our final stop."

"Yeah, and when we get there, someone's going to be waiting for us." Juna said.

"It's very likely that we'll find another singularity there... and catch up with a certain someone." Kurt nodded

"Can't forget about that pair of hot chicks we rain into. If they checked out the place last night." Ash added

"Agreed, it may be a trap, but if Musse is there, we can't waste any time." I replied. "The way to the basin is through the exit on the other side of town. Make sure we're fully prepared before we hit the road."

But still...I never thought I'd be back at the basin again. I was there with my master back when I was a little boy. Maybe this isn't a coincidence, something must be guiding mine and Rean's fates together.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV - Path of Demise)

We left Alster on the other side and past through a small forest before reaching the basin entrance, the pendulum Juna held was glowing even brighter than before.

"Looks like we're finally getting close." I said. "I sense a lot of powerful monsters here. We better be on guard."

Altina nodded. "Undertstood, let's begin the search...and reunite with Musse."

"This is the Osgiliath Basin, the so-called 'forbidden land.' "Kurt said

"Why is it called like that anyway?" Juna asked

"Oh, right. It's actually where the Sep-Terrion of Fire and Earth Clash." I answered

"What?!"

"So that's why it's called the Forbidden land." Kurt nodded

"Yeah. This is the very place that started it all. But right now, let's go. Musse is waiting for us." I reminded

Going through the basin path was even more challenging than the last time. I assumed that the Pleroma Grass could be the main reason why.

"That's the Osgiliath Basin, huh?" Juna trailed off.

"The view's stunning but unsettling at the same time. And what's all the way down there?" Kurt wondered as see can see large Black Pleroma Grass.

"Looks like we hit the jackpot." Ash smikred

"It's no wonder the air feels so heavy here." Venti muttered

"Yes. As well as the monsters around." Cedric added

"Do remember to watch each others back as we go down. We're almost there." I said.

I could see the look on their faces as we carried on through the trail. I'm sure each of them had the same question for when we see Musse, and with hope, we can bring her back to us. After blazing through the pathway, we reached a very large open area where there was an airship...and two familiar faces.

"Look, over there!" Juna noticed.

"Just as we thought." Kurt said.

"That's the landing craft from the Pantagruel." Altina added.

I hummed. "Then the Pantagruel must be nearby… Ah… I see…"

"Damn, look at all these creepy-ass flowers." Ash said.

"Then there's no question. The singularity is here." I added. "But before that...we have some words to exchange."

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - In the Darkness of Ignorance)

We walked ahead and when we were several feet away, we could see them better.

"Musse." Altina said.

"Principle Aurelia?!" I asked. "I didn't expect to see you here."

"You finally arrived, my young horned lions, you as well Prince Cedric." Aurelia replied. "It's nice to see you too Levi. I see you recovered from your injuries from the one called Liam Randolph."

"Actually, that was an illusion casted by Liam. It was to make sure to cause Rean into despair." I replied. "I honestly don't know how I suddenly went unconscious that day… but I think Liam may have something to do with it."

"I see. Interesting indeed."

Musse did a curtsy bow at us. "Welcome, Thors Branch Campus' Class VII: Special Operations. My name is Mildine. Mildine Juzelith de Cayenne. I am heiress to the Cayenne duchy and sponsor of the Weissland Army. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance at last. And hello to you too Your Highness. I'm actually surprised to see you walk among us."

"Yes. To be honest. I did had a feeling we met before. I apologize it took me this long to recognize you." Prince Cedric said.

"Our acquaintance?" Altina asked.

"Hmph." Juna frowned. "A new introduction for your new identity. Is that it?"

"Oh, Juna. You'll have to forgive me for hiding the truth from you." Musse replied. "Musse was an old nickname of sorts. One my parents gave me before they passed."

"Nickname? So that's where the name came from." I said. "Still, I'm sure you're aware I already figure out your true Identity a while ago, yes?"

"Yes. Even I was surprised that you found out at the very moment back in Ordis. Perhaps I should have focused on you instead of Ashen Chevalier."

"You're adorable, Mildine. But even know I'm more sharp-witted than Rean if you do."

"Perhaps you're right." Her smile then faded. "After the accident, however, their duchy was inherited by my uncle Croire. No sooner had he taken his seat as the new Duke Cayenne, that I was shipped off to Heimdallr. Out of sight and out of mind. There, I spent close to a decade as a student at St. Astraia. All the while knowing that my uncle's actions would one day lead to civil war."

So that's how she met Elise and Alfin, I guess it makes sense now.

"What?" Altina asked.

"That's impossible..." Kurt said.

"You're sayin' that as a little kid, you knew there was gonna be a civil war?!" Ash exclaimed.

"It only made sense. I could see what my uncle would make of House Cayenne's assets. The machinations of the other Four Great houses, and the Reinford Group as well." Musse replied. "The Empire's relationships with Crossbell and the Republic, the Blood and Iron Chancellor's plots. Excluding supernatural elements such as the society, the Divine Knights… And of course, you Levi Sullivan. Although actually, I never imagine that someone like you would appear."

"Because of my powers, knowledge, strength, and keen senses?" I asked

"Yes. You hold otherworldly powers and magic. Even able to merge with the Divine Knights and amply them. When I learn more about your powers. I knew you were somewhat special."

Yeah, I can't deny I am special...

"All of these factors allowed me to predict that the Noble Alliance would move to suppress the Reformist Faction by force. And that it would all lead to Duke Cayenne's...to my uncle Croire's inevitable downfall. As well as his demise."

"If you were anyone else, I'd think that was a bluff." Kurt said.

"Did you know about this, Principal?" Venti asked.

"Lady Mildine contacted me right at the close of the civil war." She answered. "As an ally of Count Egret, I'd known of her since she was a child. When she predicted every twist and turn of the Northern War, right down to the Empire's proposal, I made up my mind. I would see Lady Mildine as the next head of House Cayenne. Not that sham of a man, Marquis Ballad."

"Well, can't argue with that, he was a prideful one." I nodded

"Though I must admit, to this day, I find both her ambition and the accuracy of her predictions intimidating. For instance, she sought contact with the witch of Ouroboros to bolster her list of allies. And by the end of last year, she had foreseen the National Mobilization Law, the war with Calvard, and even the curse overtaking the Empire."

"Last year?" Altina asked.

"Damn, she's like some kind of monster." Ash muttered.

"Are you some kind of clairvoyance or something?" Venti asked.

"No. It's like a game of chess. Board of strategies which leads to events one piece to another. Counting more than hundreds and thousands of steps ahead. Rean isn't the only one who notice your move back then as well. They were all perfectly calculated just as your moves were."

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Trump Cards for the Worst Situation)

"It shouldn't surprise me that you notice, Levi. I merely look at the pieces in play and consider how they will interact. No clairvoyance necessary." Musse replied "I see the current state of things, the events that led up to this points, and the multitude of futures spreading out before us. And, most importantly, I see the goal of the one who controls the game board."

"The one in control...Osborne, correct?" Cedric asked

"Yes. Chancellor Osborne is unmistakenly that person. Prince Olivert noticed this as well, and did all he could to stop Osborne's ambitions. But it became clear to me that he never quite understood the extent of the chancellor's plans."

"Never understood? That was because he didn't know that the Gnomes were directly involved in sabotaging his ship!"

She nodded. "Which is why I started devising some plans of my own. The first was getting the general here to take over as the principal of the Thors Branch Campus. And the second was claiming the title of Duchess Cayenne and recruiting soldiers to my side behind the scenes. Then, when the Great Twilight broke out, I established the Weissland Army. It is with this very force that I intend to stop Operation Jormungandr. Perhaps you could say...they're the dagger I prepared to strike at the heart of the serpent."

"Musse..." Juna muttered.

"I'm finally starting to see what Jusis was talking about." Kurt said. "I don't quite understand how, but you really do intend to fight them, don't you?"

"But why? The difference in size and numbers is completely one-sided!" I added. "You only have 100,000 on your side, the Imperial Army has like, nearly ten times that size! You can't be serious about this, right?!"

"I am serious, Levi." She replied. "I plan to stand against them, even with the numbers I have."

"Are those two women we met earlier another part of your plans?" Altina asked. "The ones affiliated with Principality of Remiferia and...a certain a other country?"

"So you ran into them, did you? It must be fate..." The Principal said. "But you are correct. We invited them to discuss their cooperation. I imagine they're secretly conferring with their respective countries as we speak."

"All right, I'm startin' to see what you're after now." Ash said.

Cedric shook my head. "It's a suicide operation, no matter how much you try and sugar coat it."

"True, I estimate it will result in hundreds of thousands of deaths." Musse replied. "Though in the worst case scenario, it could be millions. Civilian and soliders alike."

"Mildine... Surely you must realize that it is suicidal. If you were to engage. There is no doubt it will also lead you to your demise as well, won't it?!"

"Yes, I am aware, Your Highness. But I'm afraid there's nothing I can do for you." Musse sighed. "At this point, the Imperial Army has gained too much momentum for us to be able to stop it outright. Erebonia was already the greatest military power in Zemuria, and like you said, conscription has only further increased its strength. That's without even factoring in the Panzer Soldats, railway cannons, and airships. It has the advantage in both numbers and technology."

I could only look down as she continued.

"What's more, the chancellor has Ouroboros at his beck and call. That person whose name is Liam Randolph as well, whose origins remain a mystery to me. Not only that. But he's also the person who gave Vita a new weapon when she return the Hexen Clan Elder her staff back. What I do not understand about him is why he sided with the Chancellor. And above all else, there's the Great Twilight itself. Its curse removes any chance that those involved in the conflict could grow weary of war. At this early phase, many are able to resist its influence, but that won't last forever. It's only a matter of time until every soul in Erebonia will be able to think of nothing but war."

A world filled with nothing but war… what a horrible world to live in.

"Which is why I presented the other nations an ultimatum. Do nothing, and allow themselves to be swallowed up by the Empire, forever stained by its curse. Or join me in one final effort to keep the world from ending. Fighting back, no matter the cost. That's what I told those women you met, and it's what I've told everyone else I've been in contact with."

"Just how many countries have you spoken to?" Kurt asked.

"Wait...you're tellin' me you've talked to everyone already?!" Ash added.

"Much like Operation Jormungandr itself, my plan is well underway." Musse replied. "The bell cannot be unrung. Even if I were to die, the choice to fight or be overtaken should still remain. Now, I'll keep my predictions as to what they choose to myself, but...humans are foolish and prideful, but they tend to show their true colors, and their true strength, in times of crises. In the end, that will be the deciding factor."

I was lost for words, I didn't know what to say to her...how can we get through to her?

"But Musse...why join us?" Juna asked.

That surprised her a little. "Hm?"

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Bond - Relations-)

"I can see your resolve. And I get what you're trying to do. But what I don't get is why you joined Class VII. What purpose did that serve? If everything you just told us is true, wouldn't it have been more effective for you to stay behind the scenes? And even if enrolling at the branch campus was part of your plan, you didn't need to transfer to Class VII. Wasn't sticking with us through everything that happened in the Gral, an unnecessary risk?"

"I...hehe. I only did what would benefit me, naturally. How could I resist the chance to get close to the son of the chancellor, the Ashen Awakener himself? He seemed like he would have some connection to the curse, so I thought that learning more about him would be advantageous in the long run. Of course, it didn't hurt that Instructor Rean is totally my type."

"Okay, THAT part, I believe. But the rest of that explanation was bullshit." Juna said.

"Agreed. That sounds like a job for one of your 'pieces'." Kurt added. "As a 'player', it would be safer for you to stay removed from all this. And that includes you talking to us in person right now."

"When I connected with everyone in the Gral, I felt a warmth inside you, Musse." Altina said. "No matter what you say now, you couldn't have fabricated that. Your feelings toward all of us are genuine. That's the one thing I can say with absolute certainty."

"Altina..." Musse replied.

"Yes. I have to agree as well Musse. Somewhere deep down in your heart. You really cherish being with all of us." Venti nodded "By the time you left, I know I sense the regret in your voice. You never want to leave us. Even if the situation is dire. Perhaps you can say if, there is something that you wanted from us. Something... that can be a beacon of hope."

"Venti..."

"Heh, your poker face is startin' to crack, Egret." Ash teased. "Still, that little trick of yours is somethin' else. You could really give Osborne a run for his money. And this plan you've come up with is probably the best chance anyone has of shutting down the Empire. But...the question is 'can you live with yourself afterward?' Yeah, you've thought the plan up, but I'm guessin' you sure as hell wish there was another way."

"Listen, Musse." Juna said. "You may not think so, but you really are just a regular girl."

"What?" Musse responded.

"Your friendships with Elise and Alfin, your pride in our class, your major crush on Instructor Rean, they're all part of that. That dirty mind of yours and the way you tease people can be a little annoying, I admit. Still, you're just an ordinary girl who loves sweets, gossip, and all sorts of other regular stuff. Same kind of girl you'd find anywhere. Sure, you may also be a genius who can come up with plans to change the fate of the world, but that's beside the point. There's no way an ordinary girl like you would be okay a plan that would cost millions of people their lives, is there?"

Musse looked down, as if she was feeling guilty about it all.

"She's got you there." I said. "And I think I get it now. You were willing to tell us this plan, but deep down, you don't wanna go through with it. When you got to know us, you were looking to find another plan, one that doesn't involve sacrificing countless lives. Well, Musse, I understand that, and I wanna assure you that there IS another way."

"Hm?"

Aurelia nodded at me, as if she was agreeing, even though I hadn't told anyone what it is yet.

"Let me put it another way." Juna said as she held her hand out to her. "What do you really want, Musse? I'm not asking future Duchess Mildine whatever, I'm asking Musse Egret, member of Class VII. What do you want to do?"

"Juna, I..." Musse seemd to be hesitant. "...The truth is...I..."

'Come on Musse, say it. You wanna stay with us, just like you've always done. But unfortunately…'

"Hey, I know you're out there." I turn my head to face some group hiding. "Come out."

"Why am I not surprised you would notice."

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Constraint)

We turned around to see the Class I students and several soldats...and with them were three familiar faces. Fritz and Ada, But it was the third familiar person that shocked me.

What the heck?! Major Michael?!

"We meet again, Class VII! Your Highness" Fritz said.

"Don't try to run, we have you surrounded." Ada added.

Unbelievable… but my mind was more focused on someone else.

"Michael? What are you doing with Class I?" I asked

"It's been some time, Class VII. And you as well, Levi." Michael replied. "How convenient to find all of you in one place."

"Ah, former Instructor Irving, I wish I could say that I'm surprised to see you on their side." Aurelia said. "I take it you've chosen to remain with the military, then?"

"Perceptive as ever, former Principal Le Guin. I have some plans of my own."

"Honestly. This is not what I expected… then again… it should be possible." I replied with a sigh and disappointed look. "I'm very disappointed in you major. But considering your position in the RMP. I shouldn't be surprised nor I shouldn't complain. And since I only treat you as a colleague. I don't feel the sense of betrayal but disappointment."

"Whether you're disappointed in me or treat me as a comrade does not concern me, Levi. But it does please me you don't see the world as black and white but with reality and my position."He brought out a sniper rifle. "I've since taken on the position of field exercise supervisor for the Thors main campus. For your safety, I would advise you all to come quietly."

"Well, mister supervisor, as Class VII's assistant..." I smirked as I stood in front of my friends. "If you're planning to take us, you'll have to go through me first. Do you really think a sniper bullet would be able to take down me?"

"Considering I been informed of your powers, as well your skills in combat. I'm aware of your threat level. Everyone's here, just like the Intelligence Division said they would be. The would-be Imperial assassin, Ash Carbide, and all of this VII accomplices. Even Lady Mildine, suspected instigator of the recent armed uprisings. And… the young man who bears otherworldly powers. Don't forget. Our mission isn't just them. But also capture Prince Cedric."

"Tch, go ahead and try!" Juna exclaimed.

"I'm sorry, but I can't let that happen!" Kurt said.

"Heh, you think you're hot shit now that you've got some shiny new toys?" Ash asked.

"Yes. And right now, you are all powerless. Especially given that my sniper has a bead on your Rakshasa right now." Michael stated

We then looked to the left to see the Red Constellation, and Gareth was there, he had Aurelia in his sights.

"We've set up a permiter with the Arc Royale and the RMP's anti-aircraft cannons." Michael said. "Trying to escape aboard your landing craft would be suicide. And don't even try bringing out your panzer soldats, that will make no difference."

"Major. It seems you have dust in your eyes." I said as I cross my arm,

"What exactly do you mean, Sullivan?"

"You mean dead snipers, broken Arc Royal, destroyed RMP anti-aircraft cannons, and many Jaeger corpses." I then snap my finger as it echoes.

And then suddenly explosions happened to the cannons and then something shot the many Red Constellation jaegers but Gareth dodge out of the way in close call too. While also shot the panzer soldots but didn't in endanger the students inside of them.

"What?!" Michael look around.

"T-The Anti-cannons!" Fritz exclaimed

"And the Soldots!" Ada added

"What did you do!?" Michael asked

"I have simply done nothing. Perhaps Aidios is punishing you." I play an innocent smile. "Still. I have no interest in harming the main campus students. Nor even plan to. I am not some kind of monster like Ouroboro's Mcburn. Therefore." I snap my finger again.

Then magic circles appeared on all the main campus students. Then each of them disappeared. While my sphere destroyed their main campus soldots.

"Whoa…" Venti respond.

"What did you do to the student!?" Major Michael asked

"Compose yourself, major. I send all the main campus students back to the main academy. The table has turn on you major. Do you continue to point your gun at me? Or will you leave while I deal with the Red Constellation myself?" Then I unleash a death glare. "Because I am in no mood to discuss this further."

"Damn, he's scary when he's mad." Ash muttered

"Well he IS protecting us, so…" Venti replied.

"Tch…" Major Michel growled.

"I had a feeling something like this might happen."

And then appeared himself was Liam next to Major Michael.

"You!" I snare at the sight of him.

"It's that guy!" Juna exclaimed

"Liam Randolph..." Musse paused

"Lord Liam, why are you-"

"I came to check on the situation. Considering the Intelligent Division is not aware of the threat Levi can be when angry. And I also make sure that the Intelligent Division does not update the records on Levi abilities and his magic. But honestly. I was not expecting the main campus students to have teleported away. But I had expected that Levi would destroy the Soldats, the Anti-cannons, and slaughtering the Red Constellation you brought. But I'm surprised is that Shirley is not among the group due to her position on the Red Constellation. But I guess it can't be helped since she's is an Enforcer of Ouroboros."

"Ah, the Mysterious man himself. We meet at long last." Aurelia said.

"Hehe. Hello to you too Aurelia Le Quin. As much I do like to talk to you. I'm afraid I'm more focused on the new Class Vll and Levi."

"Oh yeah. I have some questions for you. Who. EXACTLY. Are you?! And what did you do to me back at the Gral!?" I shout with a glare.

"Unfortunately I can't answer those questions. Since Class I is no longer in the stage of this story. I decided to replace them."

Then Liam snap his finger and then two magic circles appeared. Then two creatures appeared… or one… appeared.

A white centaur-like beasts that have the body of a horse, the torso of a human, and the head of a lion emerge from the magic circle while the other was a massive Spider like machine with a glowing blue eye. The Centaur-like beast let out a booming roared.

"W-What the heck is that?!" Juna exclaimed while standing her feet from the monster's roar.

"An unidentified monster. With powerful strength!" Altina exclaimed.

"And is that an Archaism?!" Kurt asked

"Well sort off. But it not." Liam answered. "But it is also not from Ouroboros." Liam turn to the monster. "This is called a Lynel. It's sort of like a Cryptid. A horse-like creature with immense strength and resilience. Capable of wielding deadly weapons." Then turn to the Machine. "And this one is called a Guardian. An agile and formidable ancient machine. It has high resistance, and a laser beam can deal immense damage. You can say this machine is also a sniper. Causing quite the explosion."

"I don't think he's lying." Venti replied. "I sense formidable power from that monster. And that Machine is no joke too!"

"Now then New Class VII. Do you think you can prevail? Do you have what it takes to rescue Rean Schwarser?"

Is he… trying to motivate us?

"Then it seems we have no other option." Musse said as she removed her long hair and brought out her rifle. "My friends have shown me a new potential path, and I'm not about to let that slip through my fingers. Do your worst. I, Musse Egret of Class VII, will fight back with everything I've got!"

"Hell yeah! That's more like it!" Ash agreed.

"That's right, this is not where our story ends!" Kurt said.

"Not until we get our instructor back!" Altina added.

"And we will restore order to Erebonia. As Crown Prince following my late brother's path, I will give it everything I got!" Cedric added

"Let us bring victory to Class Vll!" Venti said.

I notice Liam let out a smile.

"That's the spirit. Major Michael. You will withdraw immediately." Liam said as he turn to Michael.

"What?" Major Michael asked

"You will tell them this. That you and the main campus have lost. The Red Constellation jaegers that were brought had been kill. While Gareth is still alive. You tell him that his comrades or fellow jaegers had died and force to retreat. And the Soldats and Anti-cannons are destroyed. Without the Jaegers and the cannons and the Panzer Soldats. We're at a loss and had no choice but to retreat. You will inform the main campus students that you had lost to Class VII. That is an order. Do I make myself clear?"

"Y-Yes, Lord Liam."

Liam snap his finger and Michael was teleported away. Then turn to us.

"Oh but before we begin. I had a certain feeling Aurelia would love to join in. Don't worry. I got you some playmates too."

Then Liam snap his finger and another Lynel and Guardian appeared on the left side.

"Haha. My. How very generous of you." Aurelia said as she draw her sword. "But you're right. Let's see if they can stand the might of the Golden Raksasha!" Then she charge into battle on those two.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Malicious Fiend)

"Now. Attack!" Liam commanded the Lynel and Guardian at us.

"Here they come, Class VII! Altogether now, prepare for combat!" I exclaimed.

We begin to combat link and they begin to combat link. I resume linking with Cedric and then we charge into battle. We slash with the monster and machine. Damn. This guy is right. That Lynel had a sword and shield and then the machine did a swirling attack onto us. We begin to have a difficult fight with them. We end up using our crafts onto them and hope they are on break state. While Venti and Musse are covering us from the back. Ash use his craft and manage to let a follow up with Kurt.

"Breakthrough! Sludgehammer!" Juna use her Brave Order and we power up to break them quickly.

The Lynel was shooting fireballs at us and we dodge while the Guardian fire laser beam at us. Then the Lynel charge at Kurt and end up slashing with his dull blade while follow up with Ash. Juna and Altina bash the guardian. While Me and Cedric aided them as I use Penetrate Throw on both of them and Cedric use his craft on them as well. The Lynel let out a powerful roar and then it grab its sword and then stab it on the ground causing a powerful explosion on us and pushing us back.

"Damn, this thing literally is a monster!" Ash muttered.

"Unlike any we seen." Musse added.

"And that Guardian really is hard to beat down!" Juna exclaimed.

Venti then notice that both of them are charging us.

"Wait." Then Venti use his Craft and launch his arrows and then it hit them in the face and then it stun them. "Got it!"

"Nice shot Venti!" Musse said and then use her craft on both of them and everyone else including me fought them hard and strike.

Then both opponents regain their standing and then the Lynel leap back and then fire arrows onto us and then fire another one while the guarding was shooting laser at us. I reflect it back and it pushes it back. Then we continue to fight it back and then the Lynel charge toward Ash. Ash dodge but he bolding rode on the Lynel and the Lynel tried to shake him off, but end up getting distracted as Kurt launched an attack on its face. Ash jump off once it stop hoping around then deliver a scythe slash on it and push it back.

It roared and then Kurt follow up with his craft attack onto it. Then Altina use her Fragarach craft aseveryone else use their craft. Then Venti cast arts onto both of them along with Musse, and I cast my Arts onto them as well. And then both opponents were getting harder as the Lynel with the explosion and the guardian was launching a strong swing as we dodge and then counter it. And then we end up using our S-craft onto them. And then finally. Both of them begin to explode. The Lynel explode in purple light and the guardian glow in light blue and then explode.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Conspiracy in Motion)

We manage to win… but damn! Even I had to get serious… they were incredibly tough!

Then we heard clapping from Liam.

"Haha! Wow! Not bad new Class VII! You all did better than I expected!" Liam praised us.

"What did you expect?" Juna panted. "Hatchlings have to grow up someday, right?"

"There's no way we can afford to lose here." Kurt said. "As a Vander, I swore my swords to His Highness shield."

"But this battle has just increased our experience… both body and mind…" Cedric panted.

"Seriously. Those are one tough-ass monster and machine." Ash added.

"Yeah… even I had to get serious with those things…" I wipe my sweat.

"Well that's the point. But this also proves that the new Class Vll has gotten stronger now, thanks to me who summon those beast and machine." Liam replied

"Well… I certainly won't deny that. My muscles are quite soared." Cedric said.

"Good. With that. We can begin one FINAL performance."

That got out attention.

"There's more!?" Juna exclaimed

Then Liam snap his finger and then appeared a larger magic circle and then appeared was a giant demon beast with an armor on it's face.

"W-What the hell is that!?"

"This one will be your final opponent, A giant Demonic Beast. Let's call it Xalron. Since you're all tired. I suggest using your Panzer Soldots. And I know a certain little devil among you already prepared for one."

"Oh, you flatter me. But I'm surprised you know about it. But you do have a point." Musse replied.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - With our Own Hands!)

"Black Shade! Release!" Altina called out.

Juna and Ash got into their soldats. Suddenly, another soldat flew into our view. It was the Spiegel that Kurt piloted. Musse said was found on Rock Patio. Now we had three soldats on our side. Just Musse's and mine were left to find now. I stood back as the next battle began.

Then the Soldots launched their attack. While the Demonic Beast roared and attack them back with swings of it's arms . Soon it launched a fireball attack on them. Then Juna launched an attack follow up with Kurt, and Ash. The Demonic Beast launched a powerful punch on Ash while it begin to launched roar attack on them. Kurt launched some slash on it. Follow up by Juna bullet blast. And now Ash's scythe trick. Soon they all launched an all-out attack on it. Once it was on break state. Juna, Kurt and Ash launched their attacks.

The Demonic Beast then explode into purple light and then it vanished.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Conspiracy in Motion)

"Well. That's done. Well done everyone." Liam replied as he clap and smile.

"Alright, you." I pointed my Glaive at him. "I have questions for you and you're going to answer!"

"Sadly. No. I will not." Then Liam begin to teleport away. "Oh and before I go." Then lookup. "I hope my magic impress you Vita. Let's meet again someday. You as well, new Class VII. Your friends should arrive about now too. Chao." Then Liam disappeared.

"My my. So he was aware I'm here." Vita voice said and then Vita appeared along with the Pantagruel.

"I thought it was close by. It seems I was right. And it seems my friend is here too." I turn around and then now join is old Class VII arriving just in time.

"It would appear that your senses are as sharp as ever, Levi." She said. "Of course, Aurelia did ask for the impossible, and all I did was deliver."

And right on time. Aurelia had finish the Lynel and the Guardian.

"Haha. They were fine opponents indeed." Aurelia respond with a smirk.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Behind the Lore)

"Phew, now that we have some breathing room. We need to find the singularity around here." I reminded.

Roselia then appeared. "He is right, we do have more pressing matters to attend to."

"Right." Juna nodded.

She brought out the stake and stuck it into the ground, it glowed which confirmed it.

"That makes five now, together with the ones we found in Nortia and Nord." Alisa said.

"So we have two left to go then." I replied. "Our objection to rescue Rean is drawing close, but we still have more work to do."

"Oh, I see. Yes, this should allow you to pin down the Workshop's location." Vita said.

"You all really are amazing." Musse added. "Even with the odds stacked against you, you've still found a silver of hope to hold on to."

"Hey, don't act like you're not a part of this." Ash said.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Wind Across the Water)

"He has a point." I agreed as I held my hand out to her. "What do you say, Musse? Wanna come back with us and rescue Rean as a whole team? After all, you have these two powerful generals on your side, I think that's more than enough to build the morality to rally the troops. Cause it's just like I said, I have a way that can save lives and banished the curse of Erebonia."

"Well, when you put it like that, how can I not come along?" Musse responded before she took my hand and shook it. "Then I, Musse Egret, will happily return to Class VII! Thank you, all of you...for helping me find my way back."

With that, Aurelia agreed to watch over the Wiessland army while I and both Class VIIs returned to Eryn village to take a rest in the hot spring with just me and new Class VII.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Gentle Nap)

"Ah... How positively soothing." Musse giggled "Though I do find it a bit embarrassing, mining with the gentleman like this."

"The feeling's mutual." Kurt nodded

"But the Elder said this is normal. So do bare with it for awhile." Cedric nodded

"Relax. I prefer my checks fully grown. Ain't exactly gettin' a response here."

"And what kind of response would THAT be, huh?!" Juna growled "Sheesh... And since when are you the bashful type, Musse?"

"Yeah, I had to admit I doubted those words." Venti nodded

"If anything, I'd expected her to have bath with Instructor Rean already." Altina said

She said nothing but a smile on her face. Oh my gosh she actually did.

"Oh my gosh, you actually did it." I blinked

"Oh, I'm only joking. We haven't bathed together, but, well..." Musse wink "I did wash his back."

"Musse." Altina said with a dry face

"Good grief, Rean." I sighed.

"Damn. You really got that numbskull, Schwarzer, to go along with one of your little games?" Ash asked "That's actually pretty impressive."

"Yeah, I can actually believe in that part too. Rean is very kind. I often worried he can be easily taken for granted."

"Speaking of the Instructor... I'm worried about him." Kurt replied "Not to mention the fate of the branch campus."

"Oh... you mean all that stuff Principal Le Quin told us?" Juna asked

"I am surprised as well." Cedric nodded. "I've never imagine that the Branch campus would be used as their base. Not to mention my absent force them to obey the chancellor as well."

"The Weissland Army's intel is nothing short of reliable." Musse nodded. "It appears the Arc Royale has been all over the place, ith the main campus instructors in tow."

"I swear, that son of a bitch Osborne is going to pay in blood for this." I muttered. "Ah, sorry Cedric. I should be careful what I should say."

"I don't see why you're apologizing. I just feel the same as you do." Cedric sighed. "I'm worried about my underclassman. Being forced under the government thumps."

"And we still have no idea where Mint, Linde, and Instructor Towa are." Altina nodded

"Not even the Weissland Army has managed to get ahold of any information about them. We are similarly in the dark what Elise and the princess might be up to." Musse nodded "I imagine the general will be in contact, should she discover anything."

"Thata makes me wonder if Tita and Tio are okay, too." Juna trailed off "Not to mention Louise and Jessica."

"I'm worried about them too. Everyone." Venti sadden. "I would hate it if anything bad happen to them."

"Same. I'm worried about all the students. But I know they're safe somewhere." I nodded. "And you know, during our encounter. Something tells me that we'll see them again on our journey. It's only a matter of time. For now, we should trust in everyone's abilities. After all, every one of them is tough. They all come a long way. All we got to do is believe in everyone."

"You're right." Juna nodded. "We did manage to get all of new Class VII back together, after all. Even if it did take some doing."

"Yes. All that remains is to get our instructor back." Altina nodded "It will take the combined efforts of all of us. Class VIIs, new and old."

"I can't ignore the obligations my own plans demand." Musse smiled "But I still intend to play my part as a member of Class VII to the fullest of my ability."

"That's the spirit Musse." I smiled

"Hah. Well, I ain't gonna let being a wanted man slow me down none. We don't need Schwarzer's help to knock some heads together." Ash replied

"Right. We may not have our Instructor by our side now. But we can still make good use of what we've learned from him." Venti said.

"Right. And Instructor Rean expect nothing less of us." Kurt nodded

"You said it. Let's make it happen!" Juna smiled

They have really grown so much. I'm proud of them.

"Not to mention you as well Levi." Venti added

That took me by surprised.

"Me?"

"He's right. You taught us just as Instructor Rean does. You taught me a few new things that can help me. And I believe everyone feels the same." Cedric smiled

"He's right. Because of you, we were able to unlock some new potential in all of us." Musse wink.

"Thank you, Levi. And we mean it." Juna nodded

I was speechless. But I couldn't help but be happier.

"I should be thanking all of you." I smiled. "Thanks... everyone."

Another step towards getting Rean back was accomplished.

Speaking of Rean...I pray that Celine is still doing what she can to keep him calm.

(Liam's pov)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - In the Darkness of Ignorance)

I was in my room. I begin to use my magic and then observe Rean in his chamber. He is sleeping along with. I begin to look into Rean's head. Look like it's begun. Rean quietly groaned. I begin to look into his head. And the visions appeared of his friends of Old.

"Rean!" Alisa shout out

"Rean!" Laura shout out

"Rean!" Emma shout out

"Rean!" Machias shout out

"Rean!" Elliot shout out

"Rean!" Fie shout out

"Rean!" Jusis shout out

"Rean!" Gaius shout out

"Rean!" Sara shout out

"Rean!" Crow shout out

What? Levi is not here? How can that be? And now pieces of memories of new Class VII.

"Instructor Rean!" Juna shout out

"Instructor Rean!" Kurt shout out.

"Instructor Rean!" Altina shout out

"Instructor Rean!" Venti shout out

"Instructor Rean!" Musse shout out

"Schwatzer!" Ash shout out

Ah, there he is.

"Rean!" Levi shout

Then his head turn black

"Rean, collect the fragments." Millium said in his conscious mind.

Rean woke up. He look around. Then he groaned again. I close my magic.

"So Levi is the last, huh?" I hummed. "Perhaps it's the best for last thing. Still... that boy better snap out of his regrets. It won't be much longer until they rescue him in time. Next, they will appear in Crossbell."

---

Phew! Finally I finish it! Sorry, it took longer than expected. There was this game I wanted to play and it game out. I NEED to play it. But I'm still doing this. Next up will be Crossbell.