Dateline, August 22nd. 1206.
(Trails of the Azure - Heavenly Chariot)
The next day came on by and we were all ready to continue in touring around Erebonia. Angelica had fully recovered and she was now in charge of steering the airship, with Towa in charge of communication controls. It's great that we have Towa and Angelica with us. It's a shame about the Empress has to stay behind but, she does have a point she can't come with us. She also ask us to take care of Cedric. I explained to everyone what had happened back when I was retrieving my Soldot. They had various expressions on show.
"So to clarify, I got my soldat back. A Fragment of the Imperial Defence Force has suffered heavy losses." I explained.
I see..." Rean nodded.
"Well, you did warn us that you had no other choice." Gaius added.
"But damn, to think you could take down part of the IDF on your own." Ash said.
"Considering my strength. They're like pebbles against a mountain. I wasn't planning on doing some massacred. But when they raise the alarm, I had no choice but to silence them." I replied "In addiction. I was frustrated at how much our foes were gloating over us. Not to mention how stupid they are with the whole war and loyal to Osborne crap. But it did felt good to me."
"Well it's understandable that you want to weaken the chancellor's power like this." Venti said. "Almost sound like bloodlust through. It reminded me of that Tartaglia guy."
"Oh yeah, him. I've been wondering about that guy too. Have any of you noticed how different he is?"
"To be honest. I have." Rean said. "As an Enforcer, It's not surprising that he's powerful. However, he's remarkably skilled. Lethal even. He can easily overwhelm us with that water ability of his."
"Not only that. But he appears to have mastery of all forms of weaponry. I wouldn't be surprised if he master the Eight Leave School already."
"Still his water manipulation skill is something out of the ordinary. Reminds me of Mcburn."
"Except unlike him, he's-"
"He's what?"
"Ah, never mind. In any case. Ouroboros once against have another troublesome Enforcer among their ranks. But the good news is that some of the stress I've been having has been reduced thanks to that little stunt I did back at the IDF station. I just hate those idiots who so blindly follow Osborne and his BS. It's sounds petty, I know. But they got what they deserve. Although it's not the entire IDF, disposing any fraction of it is worthy enough to weaken Osborne's power."
"But that doesn't mean you're out of the woods yet." Kurt added.
"Nope, not by a long shot." I replied. "In any case, even though we rescued the Empress, we still need to find Alfin, as well as Elise, Tita, and Tio. I'll keep using Search magic and find out."
"Sorry to keep you all waiting." Towa said. "I finished scoping out the situation throughout the Empire."
"Wow. Nice work, Towa!" Rean replied.
"Already?! That was fast!" Juna cheered
"Towa, you are literally a prodigy." I added
"Let's check it out, then. You guys can join us, too." Gaius said.
"You got it. I'll just switch over to autopilot." Angelica replied
The monitor above switched on to show the map of the Lamare area.
"I see. So the securtiy's been reduced over in northeastern Lamare, then." Rean said.
"Uncle Zechs did mention having the 3rd Armored Division patrol pulled back." Kurt added
"Should be just enough for us to make it to Alster and Raquel." Ash pointed out.
"That means they'll be stationed near Ordis instead..." Musse sighed. "I doubt we'll be able to go back there for a while."
"Towa nodded. "Right. It looks like they carried out these measures in response to yesterday's events. That said, Milsante falls out of their jurisdiction, so the area's under heavy surveillance. We'd have a hard time heading over that way."
"And it seems we're nowhere near close to getting to Leeves." I added
Towa sighed. "I'm sorry, everyone. I tried to find us an opening to Leeves. I really did."
"It's okay, you're doing far much more than we were asking for."
"He's right. No one of us expected anything less." Alisa smiled
"Thanks to you, Towa, handling the ship is going to be a breeze from here on." Gaius added
"Mm-hm. That's my Towa! I do love me a working woman." Angelica cooed "How 'bout a reward for the effort? To the tune of, say, twenty kisses per hour?"
"A-Angie! What's gotten into you?!" Towa asked
"Yeesh. It's like I never left." Crow said.
"It kind of reminds me of the old days." I replied
"Yeah. It felt just like our days back at the main campus." Rean smiled.
"Yeah... I know what you both mean." Towa smiled. "We'd always gather in the engineering building to tinker with Angie's bike."
"And Rean would come by and help carry out some test runs for us." Angelica added "I even left it with you after all was said and done."
Rean nodded "Right. I gave it to Alisa after that, so the RF could use it as a development sample."
"Yeah. And then we had to track Angelica down on her cross-continent tour for permission." Alisa added
"So many people love these bikes. it's like horseback riding but with engineering." I chuckled. "And that's how the invention of the Orbal Bike was invented."
"So that's how it played it out, eh?" Ash asked with a smile.
"Wow... Talk about a behind-the-scenes look." Juna giggled
"That reminds me, Juna. Would anyone from the SSS would love to try out those bikes?" I asked
"Oh yeah! I think everyone, even Lloyd and Noel! I can imagine it just now~"
"Yeah. Who knew we'd managed to get the crew back together again." Crow nodded but then look upset. "Well... Not the WHOLE crew."
"Right... And the one who shot you was George, right?" I asked.
"Yeah, It was George. No doubt in my mind." Angelica replied. "But he didn't shoot me in the vital organs, so I was barely hanging onto dear life. I remember what he said back then. "This is where 'Angelica Roger' dies, if only for a time." Whether you wake from this nightmare is something only Aidios can decide. Forgive me, Angie." And those were his last words before he place that mask on me."
"I had no idea he said that" Rean said.
"So what's what he meant when he said you'd died." Towa trailed off.
"Hmph. Noy exactly the shining example of a heartless monster, is he?" Duvalie comment. "Though I suppose I'm hardly one to talk."
"I wasn't exactly lucid then, so for all I know, it was just a convenient delusion." Angelica said. "Still, it's an unmistakeable fact that he set that bomb on the Courageous. I think it goes without saying that a happy reunion's probably off the table."
I clenched my fist to hold in my anger.
"And Levi, I know how much you hate him, because of what he did to the Courageous, but-"
"Stop." I said, interrupting her. "Nothing you say will my mind. He will pay for what he done to the Viscount, Toval and Prince Olivert. I owe those three much. Especially, Prince Olivert. It was him who help me enrolled to Thors. How can I live with myself is I let his murderer get away and not pay for his crime?"
"Levi…" Towa sadden.
"But what interests me is the person you saw." Musse added.
"Yeah, I met Mariabell Crois." I replied.
"What, you did?" Juna asked.
"Yep, she said she was doing a little sightseeing when my actions caught her attention. So when she investigates. She then sees the massacre I've done. I can't tell if she finds that surprising but she finds it quite pleasing actually. When she and I met, she introduce herself to me. And because she has ties with the society, she will also be added to the ranks of the dead." I cleared my throat. "Anyways, let's just focus on what we can do today. There's still a long road ahead of us."
Towa nodded. "You're right. I already have a few requests coming in, so go and check them."
We went to the monitor and there were four requests to do.
"A request from Alster, a person search, and yet another extermination request." Rean said.
"Wait, who's this Kaela person?" Juna asked.
"Remiferia...could it be one of those two we met at the lodge before?" Kurt guessed.
"All I'll say is that one is from Remiferia, and the other...well, her circumstances are rather exceptional, you see." Musse said. "Though I suspect it's exactly as you already may have guessed."
"And this one is to defeat a Cryptid in the Osgilath Basin." Jusis replied. "By Anonymous."
Just I was about to reply. I notice we're missing someone.
"Wait… has anyone seen Cedric?" I asked
Then everyone turn around and then see Cedric is nowhere to be found.
"That's odd. I am certain he was with us." Kurt said.
"Oh, I can assure you, I'm here." And then Cedric voice said and then he appeared on the monitor.
"Your Highness!"
"Cedric? What the heck? Where did you run off to? Wait, why are you calling from the monitor?" I asked
"Well…" Cedric trailed off. "Before I can answer. There is something you all need to know. I'm sure you notice this has something to the Rivalries. You still need to face Testa-Rossa."
"Oh, right! That is something we need to talk about!"
"The Rivalries is not just the Jaeger King, the Steel Maiden, and the Governor-General. But also our Crown Prince." Musse nodded.
"That's right. We have been so busy. We never found a way to discuss how we will perform Prince Cedric's Rivalry too." Emma nodded.
"That would also make sense why the Chancellor issue an order to capture the Crown Prince. He has Testa-Rossa, doesn't he?" Celine asked. "Even if he doesn't after what happened in the Gral, we can't seem to find that Divine Knight.
"Yes. That is true. That's the main reason why the Chancellor and the Gnomes had need of me. And they might use that mask on me too for that purpose." Cedric nodded
"Yeah... that would make sense." Crow muttered.
"I'm sure many of you are wondering, especially Kurt about my whereabouts. I can't deny that I'm no longer on the ship. I'm elsewhere at the moment."
"But where are you, Your Highness? How did you manage to leave without any of our notice?" Kurt asked in concern.
"I apologize for not saying anything. But it was necessary. After all, this is the Rivalry we're talking about. There is someone who decided it would be best to… do it now." Cedric said.
"And that person is me."
I recognize that voice… oh no…
And then appeared Liam on the screen.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Temporally Speculation.)
"You!" I growled.
"Hello Class Vll. Nice to see you too. I hope you don't mind me barging in." Liam replied with a smile.
"What do you want? And how did you manage to hack into the monitor?" Rean asked
"First. So rude… then again I don't blame you. Second. I'm here to do you a favor and help you out with the Rivalry. And Lastly. That's a secret."
"Help us out with the Rivalries?"
"Yep. I'm sure you're all concerned about this and the whereabouts of the Vermillion Knight. But before we can get to that. You all know the Vermillion Knight is restored. But who is its Awakener? You all should know that answer after what happened to the Infernal Castle."
"That's..."
Then we all turn to Cedric.
"Yes. That would be me. I am Testa-Rossa Awakener. For the past two weeks. Liam has been helping me pilot the Divine Knight in secret. Under normal circumstances. It wouldn't be possible for me to pilot the Vermillion Knight since I haven't even awakened it. But before I arrived at Eryn Village, Liam took custody of the Vermillion Knight behind the Chancellor's back, and help me awaken the Vermillion Knight. Due to piloting a Soldat, I was able to handle it with ease. While the rest of you, aside from Levi, were resting because of the Gral. Liam help me do some secret training to help me pilot Testa-Rossa when everyone is asleep. Since I am an Awakener. I too, have to participate in the Rivalries. And it was Liam who teleported me to Eryn Village."
"So that explains why you woke up a little late before us." I hummed.
"That also explains how you arrived in Eryn Village too." Kurt added
"Yes. Although I apologize for teleporting Cedric into the sky within the barrier, I was in a rush. But I made sure he made it there safely. Anyway, like I said. I'm doing you all a favor by helping you out with the Rivalry. It's only a matter of time before you will face Cedric, even though you're his ally." Liam said as he pointed out.
"As much I hate to disagree… he's right…" I muttered.
"Which is why he's with me. Don't worry. He will be returning to you. And don't worry as well, Osborne and Alberich have nothing to do with this. In fact, they don't know about this and that I am speaking with you all right now. I would suggest you should face your second Rivalry right now. After all, if you do the same thing you did with Crow. You will have three Divine Knights at your side."
"Wait… how do you know that?"
"Oops. I spill out the bean. Anyway, here is the coordination where you will face your second Rivalry."
Then on the monitor was the pinpoint located on the rivalry.
"Huh? That place is Tyrrhenian Plateau. But it looks like it's in a forest." Venti replied
"Correct. The IDF as well as other forces under Osborne don't have influence here. So you will be safe. I would advise you to deal with Cedric's Rivalry now. Later."
And then he and Cedric sign off.
We all just stood there speechless.
(Trails of the Azure - Heavenly Chariot)
"This is certainly unexpected…" Alisa said.
"But he is not wrong about the Rivalry with His Highness." Musse added
"What do you think, Rean?" I asked Rean.
Rean close his eyes for a moment. Then open them. "I say we take this offer of his."
"I had a feeling you'll say that."
"Understood. Then let us be off." Towa nodded
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Weathering Road)
And so we begin to head into that location. As it took a few moments later. We then arrived. We landed and then arrived outside. And then. There was something that caught out attention. There was a doorway portal. And we can see a magical spiral.
"What the? The heck is this?" Juna asked
"It looks like it's a magical portal." Celine answered
"Wait… this portal..." My eye widen because I sense spiritual… no… otherworldly power within it.
"Is something wrong Levi?" Rean asked
"Yes. This is no ordinary portal. I think Liam and Cedric are inside this portal."
"Yeah. Something tells me this is going to be one hell of a ride." Ash replied.
"Instructor, If I may." Kurt said.
"What is it Kurt?" Rean asked.
"If this gate is where His Highness is. Then allow me to company you. As Vander, I am sworn to protect him."
"Yeah. I like to come along too. We don't know what's inside. But I can feel some incredible power inside." Venti nodded
"And if he said it will involve the rivalry. Then I should come along too." Crow replied
"Yeah. I'm coming too. Besides. I have some questions for him." I nodded
"Alright. Then we need to prepare just like with Crow." Rean nodded
And then so Rean will take me, Kurt, Venti, Crow. And I think it would be safe if all of us go. And so we begin to enter the portal
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Perfect Stage)
Once we arrived. We saw something incredible. We are in a dungeon that is filled with a green color sky and sparkling stars. Like a galaxy. (Think of it as World 3 in Super Mario Galaxy 2).
"Whoa… what is this place? It's so beautiful." Venti asked
"It really is. It's like we are in Plane or something like in Emma's hometown?" Alisa asked
"I can sense the elements of this place. They're all in balance and the wind is different. Almost divine." Gaius said.
"No. This isn't like anything like in Eryn." Emma answered."We're in a mystical space outside of our dimension."
"It's a little different from the Spirit Shrines during the civil war." Fie replied.
"Yes, it would be more similar to the Reverie Corridor or perhaps the Dark Dragon sanctuary."
"Yeah… however…" I trailed off.
"However?" Rean asked
"So you made it."
And then a magic circle appeared over us and then there was a projection of Liam.
"Liam." Kurt respond.
"Welcome Class VII. How do you like this realm I created?" Liam wink.
"Wait, you created this space!?" Emma exclaimed
"Sure did. But as I said. It's a realm, similar to a plane or Phase Space. Anyway, this will be a spoiler for every one of you. You will encounter something like this along the way. If you're wondering about the prince. He is with me. So rest assured, I've done nothing to harm him. Nor I even plan to. Here is what you need to do though. You need to reach us. This is a dungeon. If you can conquer it. You will have more chances with the Rivalry. We'll be waiting for you. Oh. And another thing. I invited two very special guests to help out. Later." And then Liam projection vanished.
"Two special guest?" Venti asked
"What does he mean by that?" Emma asked
"Not sure. But we should keep our guard up. Let's go everyone." Rean said.
We all nodded and then begin to explore this space Dungeon… I have to say. This is one hell of a place.
"I sense strong elements all over this place… and the design is beautiful…" I replied.
"Yeah. Makes me wonder what kind of man Liam must be." Venti replied.
"We can admire this place another time. We should hurry around this place." Kurt said.
As we go further and then defeated some powerful monsters on our way. There is a swirling barrier blocking out way.
"A barrier. I can sense all seven elements blocking our path." I replied.
"There must be some sort of switch to deactivate it." Venti replied.
And then soon after some treasure hunt and then count the switch and break it. The barrier vanished and we continue to explore and do the same thing and then we begin to climb up the stairs and then arrived at a large ground where someone is there.
"Welcome, all of you." A familiar face said and my eye widen who it was.
An elderly man stands against us.
"Huh? Who's he?" Juna asked
"I'm not sure, but I sense a seasoned warrior within him.
"Master?!" I exclaimed
As everyone look surprised.
"Wait, THIS is your master?" Rean asked
"Wait… I remember you. You were that old man that commanded Levi back then." Alisa replied.
"Indeed I am. I am pleased you still remember me. A pleasure to meet you at long last. Rean Schwarzer. I am Makarov. I am Levi's guardian and his Master." Master Makarov greeted
"Ah. I always wanted to meet the man who raise Levi… it's a pleasure to meet you as well." Rean said.
"Master.. why are you here?" I asked In concern.
"To assist with the Rivalry." Master Makarov answered
"So you know about them?" Rean asked
"Yes. I know about the Rivalry. Who do you think taught Levi this?"
"You certainly look like the old hermit part." Celine said.
"He certainly does. To be honest. I always wanted to meet this master of Levi." Emma said. "You know a lot of hidden details within Erebonia and you taught Levi those within your lost knowledge subjects. The Divine Knights, The Spirit Shrines, Levi's powers, and I assume you also know of me as well?"
"By you, you mean the Hexel Clan?" Master Makarov asked. "Yes. I do know about your Hexen Clan. The Gnomes. Many hidden secrets Erebonia has. You can say I know everything."
"Master... how did this Liam get in contact with you? I don't get it?" I replied.
"Well… I suppose you can say he and I are very well acquainted."
Once again… a vague respond. But still, he and Liam are acquainted with each other? I can't believe this.
"I'm sure many of you have questions. But." Makarov then pulled out his Glaive. His Glaive is similar to my own but a different color. "You all know how the Rivalry performance will work, don't you? In order for the Rivalry to commence, it needs a sign of conflict in or near the surrounding area in order for the Rivalry to properly commence. This realm is created just for that purpose."
"This realm was-" I trailed off but I was soon Interrupted.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Endure Grief)
Master suddenly powered up and unleash a strong wavelength of his strength.
"This is where we battle. Levi. I'm only here to assist. I want to see how much you and your classmates have grown. There will be a special reward for you all if you make it past me and another being to reach the Crown Prince." Master said to me and to everyone else. "Now show me how much each of you has grown!"
"Ugh…" I muttered and then draw out my Weapon. "Fine… I do have questions for him and you Master. So get ready! We'll show you how much we've grown!"
"Right. Let's do this everyone. And be careful. He's no ordinary opponent." Rean said as he brought out his Tachi.
"Right!" Everyone nodded
Then I link up with Rean and then Master charges at us and then I charge back and slash with him and then the rest of us begin to charge and follow up as well. I clash with my master and then he push me back and then Faces Rean and soon the others. We use our crafts onto him as he takes damage and then Venti cast his Arts and then strikes at him. Master wasn't pulling his punches as well. He's strong! Not only he was able to push us back but he was incredibly skilled as he fight us. And we force to take this serious as well as I will not hold back. And then I land some couple of slashes onto him and then cast my Arts at him. Rean landed some heavy blow at him along with Kurt.
As everyone fight back hard as they can. Master swirl his Glaive and launched a powerful slash wave onto us and push some of my friends back. Laura and Fie launched a combo attack onto him. But master deflect each of them and then push them back. Gaius launched some wind projections alone with Alisa firing arrows. Emma cast her Arts and Jusis with his swordplay. Soon Altina and Venti begin to cast their Arts while Machis and Elliot launched their attack. But master soon begin to attack each of us as we dodge and counterattack. Master know how to put up a fight. Soon we begin to be pushed back but we push master back as we launched our crafts onto him. Duvalie launched her slash but master can overwhelm her with a parry. Soon Master created a powerful whirlwind and gather all of us and strike at us. But we can't give up just yet. We begin to launched our S crafts onto him. And then soon with some Link and Arts. We begin to overwhelm him.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Perfect Stage)
Soon, we were able to push master on his feet.
"Hmm… Well done." Makarov said as he got up. "You all grow strongly. Well done."
"Damn Levi! Your old man here packs one hell of a punch!" Crow panted.
"Yeah. Now you can see how strong I am because of him." I panted.
"Well, the elderly do possess wisdom for us youth to learn." Rean panted.
"Hehe. I like you young man. You all have potential. Ashen Awakener, as well as the Azure Awakener. Do your best in the upcoming Rivalry. And… look after Levi for me. We will meet again. And good luck on your next opponent." Then Makarov vanished
"Hey wait!" I exclaimed. I then frown. "He didn't even answer my questions…"
"Sorry Levi… but we should hurry and catch up." Rean said.
"Yeah…" I put away my Glaive. "But what this other opponent he mention. Guess we'll find out."
Then we begin to resume our adventurer in this dungeon and explore and kill more monsters and treasure hunt. We soon found the next platform but there was no bridge. Then we begin look around until we found a mechanism as a shooting star is falling on that location. Once we hit the mechanism, it shoot out a magic bullet. I think I get it. Once I use good timing and shoot the bullet at the star. It begin to launch towards the place we used to be until it begin to glow s a sparking bridge. But that wasn't enough. We went to the other one on the other side and did the same thing. Soon a bridge is formed. It's a beautiful starry bridge as sparking stars fall down under the bridge as it glows. After we cross it, we begin to enter another large space over the stars and another familiar face.
"So you all made it." Another familiar voice said and… it's Roselia in her adult form?!
"Rose?!"Celine exclaimed
"Grandmother!?" Emma also exclaimed
Aside from me, Juna, Kurt, Altina and Venti. The others are shocked to see her form.
"What the-!?" Machias exclaimed
"Then that must mean… this is Roselia?" Alisa asked
"This must be how she used to look." Rean said.
"Yeah… We've actually seen her like this a few times before." Juna replied.
"Though she's transformed far more earlier this time than usual." Altina added.
"What are you doing here?! And that form!" Emma pointed out as she's in her mature form.
"Yes. This is the form of what I once was before I split my power onto my kin. But this realm is enriched with Mana. Plus, I owe Liam for giving me the Medallion." Roselia answered
"What do you mean?" Rean asked
Roselia then pulled out a Medallion from her pocket. "This medallion was a gift from Liam. The very same man who was known as the Mysterious Man in red. This Medallion hold an infinite amount of Mana. And as I wear it. I return to this form without a problem."
"So you knew who this mysterious man was?" I asked
"Not exactly. He did appear at my doorstep back during the civil war. And gifted me this. I was skeptical about it but he give me such a gift. In return. He said he will ask me for a favor. And this was it. I can understand why though. For the sake of Prince Cedric's Rivalry."
"It almost sounds like he was preparing for this from the very start." I replied.
"It appears to be. But I don't know what he is planning. I do know this. It has something to do with the Rivalries and something else. I don't know what though."
"Right… and in order to reach Prince Cedric and him… we have to face you." Rean said.
"Correct." Roselia then summoned her staff.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Seductive Sudder)
Roselia unleashes her aura. "Now come every last one of you. This battle will determine if you have what it takes to the very end."
"Of course. We will give it our all." Rean nodded and we draw our weapons.
"We won't be holding back. You do the same Rose!" I replied
"Be careful everyone, Rose is very strong. Don't take her lightly!" Celine replied
"Trust me, I know how powerful she is. We'll give it everything we got!"
The same combat link as last time. And then we begin to fight Rose as hard as we can. Just like before with the new Class VII training, Rose is actually pretty tough with her magic. I strike at her while Rose use her craft and suck the life out of us! Damn, she's scary!
"Did she just drain us!?" Machias exclaimed
"Hehe. Of course. It's very refreshing." Roselia said and then throw her staff at us and push us back as we begin to fight hard.
Roselia casts her magic onto us and causes quite the storm as we dodge and fight back. We begin to take equal damage from her as she is taking damage from us. I summon Luka to fire a magic beam blast onto her but she dodge as Rean follow up and strike at her. Venti cast his Arts and then Kurt follows up an attack and then we begin to launch a Rush on her. And then Roselia use her craft to drain us again and restore her HP and CP. Honestly. She truly is a vampire! We begin to launched our S craft onto her as she can still fight us hard. Then she use her own S craft and hit us pretty hard. And then I use my S craft onto her and then push her back and then Rean use his S craft onto her and then she was panting.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Perfect Stage)
"Hehe. Well done." Roselia said as she put her staff away. "Now I repay my debt to Liam. And I'm keeping this pretty handy Medallion."
"That's all you care about Rose?" Celine asked as she sighed.
"Now now. You all have things to do. You should meet up with Liam and Prince Cedric. But do be careful. As you know. He possesses incredible power. One even I have yet to see. I'm looking into who and what he is. So good luck." Then Roselia teleported away.
"First my master, then Roselia." I sighed.
"Yes, even I'm wondering who he is." Emma nodded
"To give Rose that medallion. Sheesh, that man holds many mysteries and motives." Celine added
"Yeah. But let's press on. Prince Cedric and Liam is waiting for us. We need to get some answers from him." Rean stated
"You're right." I nodded.
And then we begin to hurry and make our way to Prince Cedric. We begin to encounter four mechanisms and the same thing we need to do with Rose. We begin to shoot magical bullets onto a star and it formed a bridge as it connect to the final platform which is a long walk. We follow the long bridge as we look down and see green stars from the bridge made out of magical energy. As we walk. We can see further is Prince Cedric with the Vermillion Knight. But Liam was there as well. Then we begin to hurry and make it there. Once we arrived. Prince Cedric turn around.
"You all made it." Cedric said. "It's quite the relief… did you all had a struggle reaching this far to make it here?"
"Oh, you have no idea. The monsters are no joke. And we even face of some interest and incredible people." Venti replied
"Your Highness. I'm relief that you are okay." Kurt said.
"I'm always fine Kurt. Though I do understand your position."
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - In the Darkness of Ignorance)
"Nice to see you all again." Liam said. "And nice to see you too Crow. I've glad that Rean made you his kin."
That surprised us.
"You knew?" I asked
"Wait..." Crow said. "This is what you meant when you told me I will be back with my pals, didn't you?"
"Yep. I knew that you and Duvalie are going to help Rean escape and have your friends knock some sense into that head of his. Once you managed to escape the Black Workshop and perform the first Rivalry, you became his kin."
"That means you know more about the Divine Knights and the Rivalry do you?" Emma asked
"Of course I do, more than Alberich and another particular being. But just so you know, this is the first time someone performs the Kinship Ritual. The only reason why this wasn't mentioned in history is that no one performed it. Even if they knew, none of them either knew how to perform it, just accepting the loser's Divine Knight power or being just being selfish and taking the Divine Knight's power after defeating their opponents."
"The Kinship Ritual." I hummed. "So that is the name after what happened to Rean and Crow?"
"Yes. The Kinship Ritual is a ritual that can only perform at the end of the Rivalry. It's up to the victor's decision. It give them time to decide if the victor decided to fight alongside the opponent who lost in the upcoming battle. Should the victor accept the loser and fight alongside them, they'll become bound to each other. That applies to those who are Immortals as well. As you all figured out, Crow didn't die because you refuse to accept his power and ended his life. This allow you to form a Kinship Ritual. Crow and Ordine are bound to you and Valimar, Rean."
"I see..." Rean said.
"But you should know this. You'll be fighting alongside Crow, but only half of Ordine's power, the other half will be with Ordine. If you were defeated. Crow will die and Valimar and Ordine's power will go to the winner."
"I understand. Thank you for telling us this."
"This is something else you should know. During the Kinship Ritual, it's also up to the loser to decide if they accept being the winner's kin. If they refuse, their Divine Knight will go to the winner, and if they're immortal, they will die. I was surprised that Crow didn't refuse since he wanted to die and leave the stage. Maybe your love and bond for him change his mind."
"Well, I can't deny that. Crow meant so much for all of us in Class VII. And everyone else he met. It's only natural that we have him hear our feelings to get through to him."
"Yeah, they hit me hard with this. But I do owe it to them." Crow sighed
"Hehe. Well in any case." Liam said. "I'm sure many of you have questions about how I manage to create such a place. As well as many of you have questions about me. But sadly. I have no time to answer all of them. And the timing isn't right."
"Timing?" I asked
"What do you mean by that? What is your goal here?" Rean asked
"My goal, huh?" Liam asked. "Well I can't answer that. But I can give you a hint. This involves you, Rean Schwarser."
"Me?"
"Is it because of what happened in the workshop?" I asked
"That he has Osborne's heart? Yes. So tell me. Has it accord to you that HOW exactly is Osborne is still alive? Even though he has no heart beating?"
"That's…"
"Yeah… I was wondering about that too." Crow replied.
"Well. The answer is quite simple if you have the knowledge about it. I'm sure a certain someone also figure it out how he did manage to survive such a blow. That also includes Franz Reinford. Poor man. He wanted to enjoy his family. But a certain "pest" has to ruin it all."
"Pest?" Alisa asked
"What do you mean by "pest?" " Celine asked.
"You mean the Ebon Knight." I said "So you also know what's going on. What exactly is your goal… who exactly are you? And why are you helping Cedric with the Rivalry? You were also the one who gave Vita her new weapon, right? Not only that, you even give Rose a medallion that can allow her to return to her original form. And that sword you have. There is no doubt that it holds tremendous power… but other then that. I can sense it also holds otherworldly power. Not to mention, you are also the one who even cured Cedric illness to allow him to enroll in Thors last year."
"Yeah… there are many things you've done as Levi mentioned. However, despite you assisting the Great Twilight. You also were disgusted helping the Great Twilight." Rean nodded
Liam blink. "I'm surprised. It's true. I don't like the Great Twilight like the rest of you. However, I did it for a reason. That's also the same thing for a certain someone in armor."
"A certain someone in armor? You don't mean the Steel Maiden, do you?" Emma asked
"The very same. But I rather not give too much details. If you want to know. You have to ask her yourself. Besides, you all want to know why I cure Cedric of his illness, as well help him enroll in Thors, and help him grow stronger, right?"
"It's because it was something that happen two years ago." Cedric said as he look sad. "Liam cure me from my illness of because I wanted strength… and enroll with Rean and become his classmate… even though he's a second year. But being his schoolmates was more then enough. I'll be honest. I'm glad I am not your enemy when Chancellor Osborne offered me a deal."
"A deal?" Laura asked
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Bond -Relations)
"Yes. You see. Two years ago… I had a nightmare of a great shadow swallowing me whole. I couldn't sleep. I told the chancellor about it… That's where I met Black Alberich with his strange sphere. He offered me a deal. A chance where I can gain strength. To overcome my weakness. He gave me some time to think. But… my thoughts were interrupted when the mysterious man appeared after they left. That man… was Liam. Liam knew after what happened at the Infernal Castle might have caused me to… to be scared. To show that I'm not worthy of being the crown prince. That I will likely to suffer again and again because of my weakness. Liam rescue me from making a terrible decision. If I chose to take the chancellor's offer… The Cedric you all once knew will be gone… and I might have been influenced by the Chancellor… no… not only him… but a certain devil. To become your enemy."
"Our enemy?" I asked as everyone look shocked.
"Yes. The very same devil who wishes to bring the end to the world. That devil took advantage of my weakness. Knew what to do with me. To control me. A prince who is weak. I always look up to Osborne and Olivert for their amazing effort for Erebonia… and… even my little sister Alfin… who smile brought many joys and connections like Olivert did… while I stay in the palace because of my own weakness. And my illness. And… because of that. I might have been even jealous of Olivert and Alfins. Because they made so many wonderful friends… even the idol I cherish. I always think that I am nothing more than a shadow at their presence. I was embarrassed even to be related to the greatest figures in Erebonia. Perhaps, I was simply envious of all those I had met... Olivert… Alfins… and of Rean and Kurt… all of you. I was envious of anyone who has the potential of becoming a true hero. All my life, people have compared me to Alfin. They would constantly talk behind my back… I know they found me lacking. And I've always envied Olivert's intelligence and his freedom. It's my fault he felt the need to relinquish the Throne." Cedric sadden and then look at Kurt. "You too, Kurt… I was born so weak, and I've always looked up to your strength and swordsmanship. But even so, you held on to that ridiculous complex of yours simply because of your build. As for the rest of you… you came to my rescue. You fought the Vermillion Apocalypse to set me free… and lost Crow as a result. Through all that, I was always setting on the sidelines, watching tales of heroes unfold before my eyes, unable to join them."
"Your Highness…" Machias sadden
"I had no idea…" Elliot sadden.
"Yes… but that fateful day… I was given the chance. The very same man who stood next to me. Who cure my illness, help me grow stronger… If it weren't for Liam… I would have met a terrible fate. A different path. That's why… I will forever in dept to Liam. He save me. He trained me. He helped me overcome my weakness and even heal me. Enough to enroll at Thors… and become one of you."
"Your Highness…" Kurt said
So he save Cedric… because he knew he will meet a grim fate? Is that true?
"He granted my wish. And… I can finally get to know all of you like Alfin and Olivert did. And that's why… I will fight alongside you all… in Oliverts place. And to help with the Rivalry. I couldn't be more proud to have all of you as my dearest friends… I thank you all for that."
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Belief -SAV-)
Cedric smile then he pulled out his sword. "You made me confront my weakness. And now… I'll overcome it!"
"Well said my prince. You really have grown up. Your father, mother… friends and family is no doubt so proud of you… and I'm proud to be your mentor." Liam smiled and then pulled out his sword from his chest.
And then both Liam and Cedric realized a powerful aura together. However, Liam's aura is far stronger.
"What incredible aura!" Laura exclaimed
"So this is Liam's true strength." Kurt added
"Wrong. This isn't my full strength." Liam replied. "This is just a little higher then the strength I use back at the Black Workshop. You all grew so strong only for a few days. I want to see your result. In addiction… there is also that battle you have with Mcburn, Levi. Honestly, that idiot really doesn't know when to quit. But it's too late now. Besides. I'm curious if you are able to become his equal… and… as his brother."
"Huh?" I blink.
"His Brother?!" Rean exclaimed
"Levi, you recall what Mcburn said to you back in the Pantagruel during the civil war, right?"
"Oh… right… he did say that to me… wait how did YOU know that?!" I exclaimed
"Let's just say I have my ways. Or that Mcburn told me so. He is very interested in you and Rean after all. But enough about that. I will join this fight. I can't let Cedric handle all of you. Besides…" Liam then pointed his sword at us. "If you wish to take on Arianhod… Mcburn, and above all, all of the foes before you, I need to help train you all as well. Just like how I did with Cedric here. And just so you know. The Rivalry hasn't started yet. We're preparing, mind you. Now, show me that you have what it takes to end the Great Twilight once and for all!"
Rean nodded and everyone draw their weapons.
"Now...it is time to set the stage. One last time against all of you." Cedric said "Kurt. Don't hold back on me. Show me what it takes to be a Vander that you are worthy to be at my side!"
Kurt then got ready. "Very well, we accept your challenge!"
"You got it! All right. Class Vll and everyone else! Let's go!" Rean command
"Yeah!"
Liam and Cedric activate a combat link
I link up with Venti as Rean and Kurt link up. We clash into our blades and then perform into a deadly combat. Cedric charge his sword with energy and then strike at Kurt and Rean. Then Rean use his craft as he send powerful waves and then damages Liam. Liam then use his craft and place his sword in his scabbard and charge with energy and send a wide sword slash projection to freeze us then strike. Cedric then follow up to strike at Rean. Then I use my craft Elemental burst and strike at him and Cedric which give Venti an opening to strike at Cedric. Then Venti begin to use his craft stormeye and damage both Cedric and Liam. Giving me to strike at Liam. Then Kurt use his craft and strike at both Liam and Cedric. Liam then use his craft with the portal sword barricade and launch at us and delivered heavy damage.
Rean did the same to both Cedric and Liam. I use my craft Luka's fury and delivered heavy damage to both Cedric and Liam. Cedric use his craft and gather Rean and the others into a sphere and then strike at them. Then Liam strike at them. Liam use his command craft and buff Cedric to attack. Then Rean use brave order and then he Critical strike at Liam and then everyone did an rush on him and Cedric. Then Venti use his crafts stromeye and then and then damage both Cedric and Liam. I then use Hamsuke's wrath on both Cedric and Liam and delivered devastating blows on them. Then Rean use his hexil craft on both Liam and Cedric. Then Cedric was on break state while Liam is still holding strong.
Then Rean and the others use their S-craft on them and deliver devastating damage on both of Liam and Cedric.
Then Cedric then use his craft and buff him up. Cedric use their S craft on us and delivered devastating blows. And then both side suffered equally. But the fight isn't over yet. Venti use his craft Wind chain on us. I use arts to heal as well. Then I use my craft supercell plunger on both Liam and Cedric. Then Cedric use his craft and then strike at Rean and then Liam strike at Rean. And then Liam use his craft on everyone else. Then Cedric damaged Kurt. Then Kurt charges up with Blade dance. Then Rean use his ogre power. Then Rean unleashes his S Craft onto them. And then I follow up with my S craft and push them back. And then Liam use his craft and buff himself. Venti use his S-craft and then so did Kurt. Dealing with devastating damage to them. And then we begin to reach a headed battle on both sides. We were somehow able to win against them. Damn… this Liam guy is incredibly strong.
"T-That… was… intense.." Kurt panted from the battle.
"Yeah… he really train Cedric well…" Rean also panted
"Haha… why am I not surprised that you would prevail Class VII. I must admit, Kurt… You truly are a worthy opponent." Cedric panted.
"Well done you guys. I admit… I thought we had the advantage there…" Liam chuckled.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Rivalry of the Seven -Excellion Krieg-)
A huge swirl appeared around us.
"There!" Celine replied
"It looks like we did it!" Emma added
"Alright. Cedric. Are you ready?" Liam asked
"Of course." Cedric respond.
"Good. Because this time, you will be on your own. Show them how much you trained."
"Understood! You ready, Testa-Rossa, the Vermillion Knight?"
"I am ready Cedric." It said.
"Heed my call, Valimar the Ashen Knight!" Rean raised his hand.
"Come- Ordine, the Azure Knight!" Crow commend as he also raised his hand.
Cedric then enter his Vermillion Knight and Valimar and Ordine
"The time has come, Rean." Cedric said. "You're the Ashen Chevalier and the son of Chancellor Osborne. I admired you more than anyone. The Vermillion Knight, once held by Emperor Hector, then the False Emperor Orthros, is now mine, and I will prove my worth as its Awakener!"
"Very well, I'll give it everything I've got, too!" Rean replied. "We'll fight each other on equal grounds. As Awakeners!"
"Come on, let's get this party started!" Crow added.
And then the battle begin as three Divine Knights Clash as we watch. Both sides begin to launched a heavy battle. Cedric launched a flaming sword from one of his Craft then launched a follow up while Rean and Crow launched a counter attack. They continue to slash and counter each other. Cedric was push back but then he shoot arrows and strike both Rean and Crow. Crow launched a powerful Duel saber attack and then push Cedric back. Rean begin to use hexil onto Cedic. Cedric then launched a strong swing on them and then follow up with a powerful attack. Wow. Liam train Cedric well. Then soon Rean and Crow fought back their hardest along with Cedric. Both launched powerful slashes and crafts onto each other. Ashen, Azure, Vermillion battle. Cedric launched a sphere attack. Soon Crow launched an attack and then did a powerful attack. Cedric attack then follow up with a thousand weapon attack. Rean launched an hexil and then he and Crow launched a deadly domination attack.
Despite it being a two on one, Rean and Crow brought Cedric down.
"Nice." Fie said.
"Yeah, he did it." Alisa added.
Cedric then came out of his Divine Knight. Unlike Crow, he did not appear transparent, only his Divine Knight was and its power was being absorbed and transferred to Valimar.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Things Entrusted)
"I...lost?" He asked himself. "Hehe… Why shouldn't I be surprised… I'm nothing more of a rookie…"
"That may be so Cedric." Liam walk up to him and then place his hand on Cedric's head with a smile. "But you gave it your all. You fought proudly and valiantly. Worthy of being the crown prince. Your father, mother, Olivert, Alfins… including us are so proud of you Cedric. You've become a strong young man now."
"He's right Your Highness." Rean smiled as Valimar is reversing the flow. "You gave it everything you got. You may have lost. But you fought with honor. I know that everyone is lucky to have you as our crown prince. And as our friend."
"Yes. And… I am happy to meet you as well, Your Highness." Kurt nodded as he smile. "I will always be by your side. And even if you would fall to darkness… My blade will be the one to rescue you from it."
"Rean… Kurt…" Cedric sniffed and then he cry on Liam. "Waaaaaaaah!"
"There there." Liam comfort Cedric.
And so. It was complete.
"The Vermillion Knight..." Emma paused.
"The Kinship Ritual is complete." Celine finished
"You all have done well. I am proud of your progress. You have now another Divine Knight. I know he's already your ally to begin with, but allow me to say this. I will be counting on you all to watch over Cedric from now on." Liam said and then Cedric let go of him and he wipe his tears.
"Thank you for everything Liam." Cedric sniffed and smile.
"Of course my prince. It was a requ- Ah." Liam then covered his mouth.
"A what?"
"Ah, forget I said that. Anyway. As a reward. Allow me to give you another gift." Liam then channel his power into a blue sparking orb from his hand, and then pointed at Valimar, and then snap his finger and the orb went into Valimar's core and the Sword of the End.
"Huh?" Rean look surprised.
"We will meet again. All of you, continue to grow strong. And… keep this a secret from everyone else, K." Then Liam teleport away.
"Wait!" I exclaimed. But too late. "Ugh… and he left."
Then we all turn to Valimar. And suddenly we see the sword of the end turn to blue color.
"The sword… it changed color." I replied.
"Not just that… Valimar looks different now." Rean added
"He appears to be the same, but there is something different about him." Celine added
"So this is the gift the man name Liam has granted us." Valimar said.
That surprised us.
"Valimar? You can talk again?!" Rean asked.
"Indeed. I'm glad to be able to speak freely once more. Thanks to Liam, I was finally able to break free from the curse's hold on me." He replied. "And I'm not the only one."
"Yeah. He really is something else." Another voice said before we saw Millium appear, floating above the sword.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Promise of That Day)
"I-I can't believe it.." Alisa said.
"Millium?!" Jusis asked, surprised and all. "Is this really?"
"Millium… What in the world is going on?" Altina asked.
"It's okay, Allie!" Juna replied
"Hahaha, heck if I know." Millium replied. "It was probably thanks to Liam's power. Guess it set me free or something. This is just some kinda astral projection though, so it's not my real body."
"So in other words, you can now roam the world as a ghost?" I asked.
"Yeah, pretty much."
"Even so..." Elliot paused.
"You still appear and act like as if nothing's happened." Machias added.
"Man, that's our Millium." Sara said.
"Ohh…" I frown.
"What's wrong Levi?"
"I was thinking I should try my powers to break the curse that holds Valimar. But SOMEONE beat me to it! Ohh, why am I complaining knowing this is a wonderful occasion."
"So that is what you wanted to do… still… even if you did… thank you Levi." Rean smiled
"Although I wasn't the one to break it… your welcome. And… Welcome back, Millium, Valimar." I smiled.
"Hehe, it's good to be back. Did'ja miss me?" Millium asked. "I've been watching over you guys the whole time. Every time you got in a pickle, and every time you whooped your way right out of it. Guess I should say sorry, though...for not being strong enough. I wanted to say I saved the day. That I helped protect everyone. But I never thought I'd cause you guys all this grief."
"Millium..." Elliot said.
"You don't have to apologize!" Alisa added.
Jusis was already emotional. "Not in the slightest...you did more for us than we ever could've asked."
"I'm glad to hear that. Still, being stuck like this helped us finally figure a few things out." Millium replied. "First off, you were right about the Rivalries being struggles for power between the Divine Knights. Crow's an immortal, so he should've totally vanished from our world after he was defeated. But it seems like you guys figured it out. Making him your kin like that through the Kinship Ritual bought some more time. Though when it comes to the end of the Great Twilight, um...I probably don't even need to say it."
Crow nodded. "Heh, that's me. Livin' with a death sentence over my head."
"Crow..." Elliot sadden
"If you guys seem to have noticed. It seems like Liam is helping us for some reason."
"Helping us? But isn't he with Osborne's side?" I asked
"I won't deny he is helping gramps. But you all recalled Prince Cedric saying that Liam save him from a grim fate right? It seems to be like he was altering something."
"Altering something? Now that you mention it. It seems to do something about the Rivalry, but what through?"
"Not just that. But he also gave us a hint too. And I'm that hint." Rean added
"I don't know. But whatever that may be. He seems to be helping you guys out from the shadows." Millium repied
"From the shadows…" I said.
"And by doing so. It will lead to our benefits. But we still don't know why… he is up to something. That much is certain."
"Yeah… whatever it is… we will overcome it."
"You're right. We'll find out what Liam is planning. But let us head back." Rean smiled.
And boom! Surprise anyone? The second Rivalry is complete! I'm sure you all notice that Cedric is the Vermillion Awakener right? How will this affect the story as he is with the side of the heroes now? Now you found out. And I also thought it would be nice for Millium and Valimar to return as well. Next time for real. It will be Saint-Arkh and rescue Alfin and Tita. Oh yeah. I am also sure you all want to know what Makarov and Liam looks like right? Imagine Makarov as Sebas from Overlord and Liam as Akechi from Persona 5. But not like evil Akechi. Ah, right. Also here are come quotes too and battle data.
Makarov quotes
Liam's Realm battle
"Now then Levi. Class VII, show me how much you grown."
50 percent HP
"Hmm. Not bad I see."
Enchanted quote
"Bear witness to my power."
Defeated quote
"Marvelously done."
Roselia quote
"Now then, young horned lions. Face me with all of your might!"
50 percent HP
"My my, aren't you all feisty."
Defeated quoted
"Hehe, Well done."
Cedric's quote
"I'll show you my resolve."
Burst
"Liam, your assistance!"
50 percent HP
"I'm only just getting started"
"Hehe... Why am I not surprised..."
Liam quote
"Now then Class VII, show me your resolve."
Burst
"Cedric to me!"
50 percent HP
"Now we're getting somewhere."
Enchanted Quote
"Guess it's time I get serious."
Defeated quote
"Hehe, Not bat at all."
Makarov
HP: 375480 Elemental Efficacy: All 100 Unbalance: Two Stars
Level 102
An old Hermit and Levi's Master. Here to assist with the Rivalry by Liam's request.
Crimson Roselia
HP: 375480 Elemental Efficacy: All 100 Unbalance: Two Stars
Level 102
The elder of the Hexen Clan, wielding powerful magic. Here to assist with the Rivalry by Liam's request.
Crown Prince Cedric
HP: 301476 Elemental Efficacy: All 100 Unbalance: Two Stars
Level 102
Crown Prince of Erebonia and Vermillion Knight's Awakener. Preparing for the Second Rivalry.
Liam Randolph
HP: 602480 Elemental Efficacy: All 50 Unbalance: Two Stars
Level 103
A Mysterious associate of Chancellor Osborne and Ouroboros. He's helping prepare for Prince Cedric's Rivalry.