(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Crimson Flash Shadow -Radiant Wings-)
We exit the Luna Shrine and it was still daylight. Once one of them notice us. They pick us up. We told Olivert who listened carefully to what we learned from Specular Moon Mirror and how it all connects to Ishmelga. The very bastard who is responsible for all this. With us are everyone else.
"The chancellor, Emperor Dreichels reborn..." Olivert hummed. "The whims of fate are inscrutable as ever. Even so, the big picture is starting to come together at last. Including the reason why Father would entrust so much authority to him."
"But I never imagine that our emperor Dreichels to be reborn as Gilithan Osborne." Cedric added
"Indeed." Kurt nodded.
"Sounds like Alisa's father and George have quite a bit of baggage too." Angelica said.
Alisa nodded. "Yeah..."
"But I don't think any of us would imagine the truth to Levi and Venti's background. That the two of you are Avatars." Olivert said.
"Yeah… it was a shock to us too… but I'm glad I was born into this world and had finally have an adorable little brother." I smiled.
"I'm truly happy for you Levi. Truly I do. Still… you and Venti are aliens in this world. Which explains why there was no trace of your birth. And yet… you two are becoming part of this world."
"Yeah, still, being an 'alien' doesn't make me feel human though…"
"Come now, my friend. You're you. You're just like the rest of us. We're all humans here. Well except for your familiars and Celine. But for Liam… could he be possible to be an alien too?"
"It's possible but… if that's true… then why would he know about the Great Twilight? Not only that. He seems to be aware of many events that will take place. He knews that Class VII, the Branch Campus, the Noble Alliance… Even knew that Crow will become an immortal before it even started. Not only that. He was the one who guided Rufus to the location of El-Prado."
"Guiding the potential Awakener would be normally the Hexen Clan position. Although Levi partly took some of that role from me." Emma said.
"Are you mad about that, Emma?" I asked
"Oh no, of course not. I was just surprised that you knew back then. Plus I'm quite thankful that I don't have to bring suspicion upon myself."
"Ehehe. True. I raise many questions about myself to the others back when we were students."
"In any case, I don't know where the location of El-Prado. I don't think Grandmother and Vita know its whereabouts too. And yet Liam knew where from the very start."
"Let's not also forget that Liam knows more about the Rivalries than even Chancellor Osborne and Alberich." Cedric added. "Other than that. Both Ouroboro's Fool and Alberich both claim that Liam is a very valuable asset due to his knowledge and capability."
"Yeah. Not to mention that power of his." Milllium added. "First he freed Valimar from the curse along with me. Next, he healed Prince Olivert's eye, created that domain you were in Prince Cedric's Rivalry and now he created both Levi and Venti with that power of his too."
"He also restore my father's left arm and heal his respiratory problems." Laura nodded
"And my illness too." Cedric added.
"Yeah. But who is he really? There is still a lot we don't know about." Venti stated
"True… we don't know what Liam's motive is. All we know now is that he opposed the Ebon Knight, the Chancellor, and the Gnomes' plan… but also aided them. And assisting us from the shadows." Olivert nodded
"There is a lot we need to ask him." Rean stated.
"But there is another we need to note as well." Cedric said. "I'm sure you all recalled what Millium said at the end of my Rivalry right? That Liam was altering something? First he altered my grim fate."
"And he intertwine my fate with Levi."
"To be honest. I'm grateful that he save Cedric like that." Olivert smiled. "But who is this 'she' he mentioned?"
"That's another question we need to ask him." Cedric sighed
"Right, so anyway, has there been any word on their location?" I asked.
"Sorry, but we're still working on that, finding them is a little difficult." Towa replied.
"The Black Workshop and the Ebon Knight..." Musse said.
"Yeah, it sounds more dreadful than anything we could've expected." Tita added.
Jusis had his arms folded. "The chancellor's true intentions aside, we've finally gotten a glimpse into the cause of the Empire's woes."
"You're right. This is a real bombshell." Machias agreed.
"But the Rivalry of the Seven might just be our avenue to fight back against the curse." Emma said before looking at me.
"Right." Rean nodded. "Thanks to Roselia and everyone, I've steeled my resolve to go through with the remaining Rivalries. We have to keep moving forward, for Millium, and for Valimar."
"And you know that I'll be at your side." I said. "After all, I want to save the world like the rest of you."
"We'll fight with everything we have, until the very end." Altina added.
"Right- as Class VII." Alisa nodded
"Seems all of this has really helped you move forward, in more ways than one." Olivert replied. "And if the Lionheart Emperor is to make an appearance in this story, then I can't very well let myself be outdone by him, now can I?"
Alfin nodded. "Thats right. I'm glad we were finally able to find a role for ourselves in all this."
Rean noticed Elise on one of the computers with Alfin.
"Are you sure you don't mind?" Rean asked. "Providing Towa with support, I mean."
"Don't you worry about a thing." Elise assured. "We've been studying the terminal controls, little by little."
"Yes, we've read the manual inside and out!" Alfin said. "I'm sure we'll be able to provide some assistance when you need it."
Towa giggled. "It really is amazing how you two got used to everything in no time at all. Elise, Your Highness, I'll be counting on you from now on, okay?"
Both Elise and Alfin nodded together.
"Sheesh, you really can't underestimate those two." Rean said.
"Everyone from the branch campus is going all-out, so we'd better keep tempo with them." Elliot added.
"Now, it's about time we put together our itinerary." Olivert replied. "I should think our next objective is pretty clear, no?"
"Right. Grandmother showed me the situation before we left." Emma said. "It looks like two Divine Knights and their Awakeners have taken up position at separate shrines."
"Which two are they?" I asked.
"The Palatinate Knight is at the Draco Shrine in Sutherland, while the Argent Knight is at the Stella Shrine in Crossbell." Celine answered. "They've probably been making preparations for the Rivalries, given that the war's about to start."
"Well, guess nobody can accuse the Maiden or the Jaeger King of havin' a poor work ethic." Randolph said.
"I'm sure we're all raring to go right now, but we've spent half the day at the Luna Shrine already." Crow added. "I say we pick just one spot, and give it our undivided attention."
Rean nodded. "Agreed. In addition to the shrines, I'd also like to check in on the surrounding area."
"So which place are we gonna hit up first?" Ash asked.
"My lord is in Crossbell, so naturally, my interests lie there." Duvalie replied.
"Considering the distance, it might be better to start with the boss at the Draco Shrine and work our way east." Fie suggested.
"Good point." Sara agreed. "It was off Old Agria Road, east of Parm, right?"
"Then we have our destination." I declared. "Let's do a bit of scouting just in case there's anything new."
"Sounds like a plan. By the way, several requests came through not long ago." Olivert said. "If you could spare some time to take care of those-I and the requester-would greatly appreciate it."
We went over to the monitor to check in on the requests, and Towa wished to come along to help out.
"And another request from anomalous to defeat a cryptid in the Autos Coastral Beach." I said. Hmm… could this Anomalous be Liam?
As before we begin to depart and get ready. I was heading to the deck to get some time alone. But it wasn't just me. Venti was there too.
"Venti." I called out as I approached him.
"Oh, Le- brother." Venti turn around. "This… truly feel so strange, doesn't it?"
"Yeah… but I can't honestly believe it… honestly… I… this truth really is… unexpected. Hamsuke. Lyka."
And then the two familiars appeared and they look sad.
"So you found out, huh?" Luka asked
"Yeah… you two were created by Liam… you two knew the entire time… along with Master Makarov…"
"We're sorry, Levi… Venti." Hamsuke look down sad. "We were told not to tell you… as you saw within that vision."
"I'm not upset nor disappeared… To think the man who was next to Osborne… turn out to be the very being who created me… no… us."
"Yeah… I did find some strange connection with him." Venti nodded. " So that strange connection was actually a feeling of the one who gave life to us. But how exactly?"
"That's also a good question. That magic circle was nothing like Rose, Emma, Vita, and that wrench Mariabell use."
"How are you feel about all of this?" Venti asked.
"Overwhelm. I just wanted to cry because the fact is… I'm not human… aren't I?" I respond in sadness.
"What? Why would you think that?"
"Well…"
And then just now joining the neck. There was Rean.
"Oh Hey, Venti, Le… vi?" Rean then asked and look concern. "Is something wrong? Oh… this is about the Avatar thing, aren't you?"
"I can't tell if you have a knack for this Instructor or you were eavesdropping." Venti remark. "Either that or it was obvious."
"I think it's safe to say it's obvious." Rean respond. "How are you two feeling."
"We're both shocked to learn that truth about our existence." I answered. "But I had the most. Master Makarov was created in this world to take care of me. I don't think he is an Avatar. I think he's familiar of sorts. Or an entity. Either way. I'm shocked that I'm not exactly human."
"Why would you think you're not human?"
"That is what I wondered as well." Venti sighed.
"Because I'm not born in this world. Sure I look human along with Venti but we're different."
"Levi. That's not true." Rean said.
"Huh?"
"Look Levi. I'm sure everyone agrees that you are human. Whether you are the Avatar or not doesn't change who you are as a person. Seeing Liam created you by some mysterious power doesn't change that you are human. You are not so different from everyone. We all had secrets, even a dark past. And even now. We finally found out the truth of your existence… but for the reason why… we will find out. But right now. Please don't be sad We're all here."
"Rean…" I couldn't help but feel tough but he is right.
"You got that right Instructor." Venti smiled.
"Yeah… thanks. Ah geez… back when you were negative with yourself somehow rub it off on me."
"That… doesn't sound like a good thing."
"Hehe. Either way, thanks Rean." I smiled.
And then soon Rean begin to leave us along for awhile. Anyway. I begin to relax for a bit now. And have a nice brotherly bond with Venti. I really really needed this. After a while with the bonding. Me and Venti gotten closer as siblings. I adore him.
"Attention, friends. Please come to the bridge for an emergency meeting."
"Emergency?" I repeated.
"I'm guessing something must have happen to the Draco Shrine." Venti suggest
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Dark Clouds)
The two of us headed over to the bridge where Rean and everyone else had returned. They explained that the sanctuary was somehow moved to a different location. Alberich doesn't want us to start the Rivalry early, so he move it. The entrance to the sanctuary was blocked by a pillar of light, and a giant ship was providing the power to it, as the monitor showed.
"I can't believe that this is how things have panned out." Olivert said. "After an analysis, it appears to be very similar to the barrier that appeared over Crossbell during Dieter Crois' bid for independence."
"What?! Seriously?!" Juna exclaimed.
"We saw it from Garrelia Fortress during the civil war." Elliot said.
"So besides the handful of things it lets pass through it, it's basically impenetrable, huh?" Randolph asked. "But wasn't the barrier before powered by a Sept-Terrion? How'd they get this one running without something like that?"
"The original Aion's abilities were reproduced in these new models. To a certain extent, anyway." Duvalie said. "If they used the Third Anguis' skills in conjunction with those capabilities, then it's not unthinkable they'd be able to create a similar barrier."
"Ah so that what Irina said yesterday to Mariabell." I muttered
"Irina, my foolish daughter..." Gwyn said quietly.
"But why would the Professor help make something like that?" Tita asked.
"It's possible he has some plan in mind, but I can't even begin to imagine what it could be." Kurt said. "And the location of the shrine has moved to..."
"Right...Hamel of all places." Ash finished. "Seriously, I'm getting sick of this. Can't these assholes stop making problems for like five damn seconds?"
"Unfortunately that will be impossible. Considering how even our enemies are cruel and emotionless." Venti stated
"And we can't have Levi break the barrier as well. They already have something in plan in case he does." Musse added.
"You're right, if we can't get through that, then we won't be in any position to take on the Rivalry." Rean said. "So, just like we expected, our only option is to board the ship and stop the barrier generator."
"And considering the ones behind it, we'll most likely be facing Sharon and George." I added. "Therefore, I'll need to go with you, because I have something to say to the both of them."
"You're planning on what I think you are, are you?" Angelica asked in concern.
"After what I've learned from the Specular Moon Mirror, and that Toval, Prince Olivert, and the Viscount are alive. I've change the verdict."
"That's good news to hear." Towa smiled
"However, I'm still going to make him pay. But in order to do that. We need to infiltrate that airship. And the frontal assault isn't going to be easy as well."
"Then I'll go around and provide support via Ordine." Crow suggested. "Paired up with the Courageous, we should be able to create some kind of opening."
"A fine idea." Jusis agreed. "The Azure Knight's exceptional flight capabilities should be the edge we need to succeed."
"B-but, Crow..." Towa paused.
"Rean'll be fighting at half power without you and the Azure Knight." Celine said.
"Hey, it's chill. Don't worry." Crow assured. "I'll just be creating a diversion, that's all. There's no way I'm missing out on the Rivalry at the Draco Shrine."
"Yes. That includes me as well." Cedric nodded.
"Are you certain Cedric?" Alfin asked in concern for her brother.
"Yes, Alfin. I am Testa Rossa Awakener. So I must for the Rivalry."
"Don't forget what Liam told us. You only have half of the Azure Knight's power." Celine pointed out. "Rean'll be fighting at half power without you and the Azure. Same with the Vermillion Knight."
"We'll be counting on you, Crow." Rean nodded
"Just don't do anything too crazy, okay?" Emma said
"Now all that's left is to decide who will be in the boarding party." Gaius stated
"I'll go with you, Rean." Alisa volunteered. "With Mother and Sharon waiting, there's no way I could pull out now!"
"Alisa... Yeah, of course." Rean nodded.
"And you'll be bringing me along, naturally." Angelica said. "We'll finally get another shot at that guy, in the truest sense."
"If there are going to be Enforcers there, then you'll need bracer support." Sara added. "There's also the matter of a personal debt I owe to a certain fastidious maid."
"In that case, I'd like to observe the Garguntua-class, for future reference." Musse requested.
"Musse..." Tita trailed off
"Angie, and Instructor Sara too..."
"That just about fills out the team." Altina said.
Fie nodded. "Yeah. A solid lineup. I know i'm not up to bad quite yet, but if you need me sooner, just say the word."
"Given what little time we have left, we'll need to take care of the ship first thing tomorrow morning, then move straight to the shrine." Olivert said. "As such, tomorrow will be quite a busy day. Do make sure you're good and rested!"
"Got it." Rean replied.
And our plan for tomorrow's mission was ready to go for the next day.
Dateline, August 28th.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Whatever the name of that music)
The morning arrived and with Alisa, Angelica, Sara, Musse, and myself already assigned, Rean chose Laura, Venti and Cedric to come along with him. The Courageous was already moving into view of the huge battleship, it then fired as we got too close. Some of the smaller imperial ships moved in to try and attack us. Although it was kinda risky, our team was on the outdoor top floor.
"It's about as rough up here as I thought it'd be." Sara said.
"Yeah, no kidding." I added. "I'm tempted to cast my sphere and destroy those ships, but I won't."
"And this is just them saying hello... If we can't find an opening, we'll just to make our own!" Olivert said in the bridge.
"We'll leave it to you. You got this, Crow?" Rean asked.
"Hell yeah! C'mon, Ordine. Let's show them how it's done." Crow replied.
"Of course!" Ordine said.
Ordine flew off and Crow was able to lure the smaller ships away while the Courageous got close enough for Emma, Musse, and I to help us transport our team to the front of the giant battleship's cargo hold.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Steel Barrier)
The coast was clear from our view, and with the soldats and Valimar teleported in, we were ready to begin the mission.
"Phew, that went well." Rean said.
Alisa nodded. "Yeah, thanks to everyone working together."
"It was certainly was an action pack." I added. "But now that we're inside, let's find that generator and shut it down."
"Anyways, let's move out and-"
"Intruders detected!" Angelica was interrupted when a pair of those dolls from the workshop appeared. "Targets designated for annihilation. Launching battle program."
"These are the very things we fought at the Workshop." Musse said.
"So they even brought those Archaisms here?" Venti muttered
"It seems they intend on making things difficult for us. Be on guard!" Laura stated
"Careful! Here they come." Sara warned as they approached us.
I link up with Alisa and then we begin to take down those Oz Mirages as Alisa provide cover for me. We overcame them pretty easily and they exploded we were far away from them though.
"We won." Angelica sighed
"The Gnomes just love to piss me off as they already have..." I muttered
"The Gnomes really are the worst…" Cedric muttered.
"Are you okay, Instructor?" Musse asked.
"I'm fine." Rean replied. "The Workshop's been more involved than we thought."
"It could be that this whole ship was an experimental lab." Alisa said. "Built to test barrier generators and other technologies by the Workshop and Ouroboros."
"Oh, dear. just imagine if they reproduce that very generator." Venti sighed.
We then heard cannon shots from outside that were being blown.
"Crow and the others seem to be doing a good job." Angelica said.
"Yeah, might as well take this chance to get through, while the bridge sentries are distracted." Sara added.
"Okay, if we're good to go, we should head out." Rean advised
"Yeah, let's seize this opportunity while we still can." I nodded.
"Let's be quick about it!"
We began exploring the rest of hold area and then we see more of those disgusting Zauber Soldats as we pass through them.
"Whoa!" Sara exclaimed "Get a load of all those Zauber Soldats."
"Well, it is a cutting-edge battleship. Nothing but the best, right?" Angelica asked
"Personally. I want to destroy those disgusting machines of Alberich along with this ship." I muttered
"I understand how you feel Levi, but hold that off for now." Rean said. "As long as they're inactive, we've got no reason to engage them. Let's move on."
"You're right. After all. We have to get rid of that barrier."
We continue to make our way and then made our way up the floor where a few more of those Oz Models were roaming as well as archaisms. We eventually arrived at a checkpoint before walking into a new area, but our way was blocked by two female officers. They look familiar... oh my Aidios...
"I knew you'd be coming, Alisa." One of them said.
"Seems we chose the right spot to guard." The other one added.
"Wait...it's you!" Rean said in surprise.
"I recognize those faces." I added
"Never thought you'd be the ones standing in our way." Sara said.
"Emily?! Theresia?!" Alisa exclaimed.
"Heehee, you all seem so shocked. Though I suppose it has been some time since we've seen each other." Theresia said. "And for those I haven't met, allow me to introduce myself. I'm Theresia Caroline, 2nd Lieutenant in the 3rd Air Fleet of the Imperial Army."
"And my name's Emily, I'm also a 2nd Lieutenant." Emily greeted. "Both of us used to be in the Lacrosse Club with Alisa. They called me 'The Blazing Maiden'. Cool, huh?"
"It's really been a while." Rean said.
"Hehe, you haven't changed one bit." Alisa added.
"I take it they're one of Thors graduate?" Cedric asked
I nodded. "Yep, though I didn't expect them to be in our way."
"Quite the small world, isn't it?" Venti asked.
"Weren't they in the same year as Angelica?" Musse asked
"Yes. I heard they were going to join the military after graduating, but I wouldn't have dreamt we'd meet here like this." Angelica answered before she winked at them. "Aviator jackets really suit you lovely ladies!"
Theresia giggled. "Thanks. Has life been treating you okay? I hear Ferris is doing well for herself, too. Also, it's Crow piloting the Azure Knight, isn't it? I wanted to say hi to him."
"I assume you've heard about George? So many strange things have been happening lately." Emily asked. "It'd be nice to have a class reunion one day, but duty comes first."
They brought out their weapons, ready to battle us.
"Of course, you're not letting us pass unless we beat you, right?" I asked.
"Yes, unfortunately." Theresia replied. "Though I'd be lying if I said we agreed with everything currently going on. For example, our colleagues assigned to this research vessel have started becoming a little unhinged."
"Then there's the fact that Erebonia's trying to kick off a war for insane reasons." Emily said. "But either way, this is the path we chose for ourselves as Thors graduates. We were assigned here to defend this post, and so we will."
"To uphold your pride as Thors graduates? I think I understand." Laura nodded.
"Sheesh, you guys." Sara sighed.
"As I said, you haven't changed since our school days." Alisa said.
"Aww, that was almost enough to make me proud of your sweet little beauties." Angelica added.
Angelica and Alisa look at each other and nodded and step forward and take out their respectful weapons.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Bold Assailants)
"But unfortunately, withdrawing is not an option for us either. Like you, we're bound by the Thors pride to follow through on what we've decided." Angelica smirked
"If need be, we WILL fight. And we WILL prevail!" Alisa nodded
"Alisa... Angelica..." Rean trailed off as he look at them.
"In that case, we'll leave them to you." I wink.
"Hehe, all right." Theresia replied.
"It's showtime!" Emily added.
Both side form combat links. Angelica charge in as Alisa fire arrows back as Theresia and Emily orbal gunshot back. Angelica launch an attack onto Emily while Alisa follow up. Alisa use her Craft as Theresia fire back. Soon it cause quite the explosion. Both sides begin to fight hard. Angelica launched some powerful punches and push Theresia back while Alisa fire a rain of fire onto them. And Finally Angelica launched a powerful punch technique onto Emily and both Alisa and Angelica launch a Rush attack. Both Emily and Theresia were defeated.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Things to Tell You)
"The winners are clear." Rean said.
"Well, we tried our best." Thereisa said.
Alisa and Angelica rush towards Emily and Thereisa.
"Are you okay?" Alisa asked.
"Yes, we're fine. Just a few bruises and scratches." Emily answered. "You really have grown, Alisa. So much more than when we were in school."
"Angelica, I'm similarly humbled to see how skilled a warrior you've become." Theresia said. "Your travels around the continent and everything you did when you disappeared for a while must have taught you a lot."
"Enough to make up for causing some issues for my friends, defintely." Angelica replied.
"It was a satisfying battle to watch." Rean said.
"Marvelously done. I'm honored to witness Thors graduate living up to its name." Cedric smiled
"Oh yeah. It was an interesting Catfights." I smirked
"Catfights?" Rean asked
Venti chuckled.
"You hang out with Crow too much Levi. Anyway, that was impressive, ladies." Sara added. "Kids grow up so fast nowadays."
"Ain't that the truth." I laughed.
"My ambitions are no less than yours. I must take care not to fall behind." Musse giggled.
"I'm really glad we challenged each other without holding back." Alisa smiled. "It reminded me of our practice sessions at the Lacrosse Club."
"Yes, it was good, wasn't it?" Emily chuckled. "With your determination, you'll definitely be able to fight your way through to your mother."
"Oh… I'll try!"
"Angelica, your friends seem to be benefiting a lot from your support." Theresia said. "You'll get even with George eventually, I'm sure."
"That's the plan." Angelica smiled.
Then we saw Theresia and Emily slowly fall down, they must've been too tired to continue talking.
"How are they?" Sara asked
"It's nothing serious. We should let them rest for now."
"Let's continue onward. We need to find my mother." Alisa said.
"Right." Rean replied.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Steel Barrier)
We passed through the area and into the next corridor, getting into some battles and avoiding others along the way, passing through the other side of the corridor before we reached the core area. And waiting at the far end were the four people we knew we would see again.
"Mother! Sharon!" Alisa called.
"Professor Schmidt, too...and..." Rean paused.
"George the traitor." I muttered.
"Looks like we've finally hit the end of the line." Sara said
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Shattered Heart)
"As I suspected. The Courageous was just a diversion." George said. "I warned you more than once, didn't I? Yet you seem determined to get yourselves killed."
"Telling me 'no' only make it all the harder for me to resist." Angelica replied. "You, of all people, should know that by now. And here I was thinking this was an invitation between old friends."
"Then you're a fool. You should've just forgotten all about me, and stayed away."
"We know the whole truth of what you did now. My resentment of you has reduced since then." I said to George as I cross my arm. "However, I still want you to pay for your crimes."
"Truth be told, I'm not actually sure what you stand to gain by siding with them, Professor." Rean said. "Is your research so important to you that you can't tell right from wrong? That you'd stoop to working with the Gnomes?"
"I don't recall 'siding' with anyone. I work only for the sake of my research. Those barrier generators were incidental busywork at best." Schmidt replied. "I have already evaluated the results of my second and fourth disciples. This was a good chance to see the works of my first and third, as well."
"Their results?" Musse repeated.
"The third disciple is George...and the first one was..." Sara paused.
Alisa sighed and glared at Irina. "Mother, what is this all about? Why are you working with the Black Workshop? Why are you helping..helping HIM?!"
"Observing the results of our products' field tests is part of our standard contract." Irina replied. "Beyond that...well. A smart girl like you should be able to figure out the rest. Now then, Miss Kreuger."
Sharon stood forward. "As per my contract, I, the Severing Eclipse, am obligated to restrain you. I will not allow you to lay even one finger upon Chariman Irina, nor her generators."
"Hmph. Then I wish you luck on that." I replied. "Have you forgotten I can fly or teleport? Not to mention I'm stronger than you. I can easily crush you just like what I did with those Aions. Or have you forgotten from your little welcoming party?"
"I haven't forgotten, nor deny your strength. But that is precisely why I will not take any chances when I face against you."
"Irine! Enough of this nonsense!"
Suddenly, a monitor of Gywn appeared.
"Gwen?!" Rean asked
"Grandfather!" Alisa exclaimed.
"They must have patched him from the Courageous II." Musse added.
"Right you are! You can thank Towa for helping me with that." He replied. "Irina! What kind of mother are you?! That's your daughter there! And you, Sharon. Quit being so damned stubborn! And as for you, Schmidt. You've finally crossed the line you self-centered old goat!"
"I believe it is for the Institute of Technology, not you, to decide what limitations I must abide by." Schmidt remarked.
"This battleship and all of its trial runs constitute an official, contractual agreement between the Imperial Government and the Reinford Group." Irina said. "I've taken the situation into consideration and it happened to line up with our company policies, so I see no issues. Should you disagree, ex-chairman, you may bring it up as a subject of discussion at our next board meeting."
"Bah! There you go, hiding behind all your bureaucratic nonsense again." Gwyn responded.
"Perhaps you'd best save your father and daughter squabbles for behind closed doors. We have other things to focus on at the moment."
Suddenly, a monitor with Alberich appeared on our right.
"Black Alberich..." Rean muttered.
"The parasite." I growled
"Hmph. So you've finally decided to show your face." Schmidt said.
"Well, I'd only intended on making a routine check of the ship, but it seems some vermin have scuttled aboard." Alberich replied. "It would appear the Radiant Wings simply can't stop themselves from pursuing utterly futile endeavors."
" And it seems you don't know how to shut up, no one asked for your opinion nor to hear you talk!" I snapped. "And drop that pathetic act, everyone let alone me know who you really are. You're nothing but a persona created by Ishmelga and took over Franz's body while suppressing the real Franz Reinford!"
"I'm not surprised are already aware, considering you keep calling me 'parasite.' Well, it doesn't make much of a difference. After all, you're going on and on about judgment and your wrath. But you haven't made any progress. Aside from you massacre the Imperial Defense Force in Lamare."
"That's because I don't know those idiots back in Lamare. They're already my enemies, not to mention they possess something that belongs to me. It's only natural for me to take it back, even if it means giving them what they deserve. But for the others I'm and my friends are acquainted with, I'm giving my friends a chance to reason with those who sided with you and Osborne, and if they still don't work out, well...I think you can figure that out yourself."
"Hmph! Nevertheless, despite what happened to me, I still retain the memories of my life as Franz Reinford. Further, Irina has given her full approval to the Black Workshop's mission statement. Together, we will create a new world order."
"A-A new world order?" Rean asked
"What the hell does that even mean?" Sara asked
"You're referring to the genesis that will follow the Great Twilight, aren't you?" Musse respond.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - A Sudden Turn of Events)
Alberich smirked "Indeed. This continent is nearing its end. The Great One's revival is imminent. The hellfire of war and destruction will roll across the land, ushering the world into another Dark Age. An era of turmoil and chaos. Just like what occurred 1,200 years ago, following the Great Collapse. What then, do you suppose, the world will need? A goddess? I think not. Professor, surely you know the answer."
"'Technology' Without questions." Schmidt said. "Technology will be the cornerstone for the world's restoration. It will work far faster than the church could ever hope to. Bishops and cardinals will become obsolete, only to be replaced by engineers and scientists."
"So that's what you're planning." Angelica said.
"You're trying to remake the world?!" Rean asked in surprise. "All to become its new gods?!"
"Goodness, no. We would merely act as servants of the one true god." Alberich replied. "Though we would certainly be better custodians of the world than the Septian Church. It should be simple, really, given the combined technological prowess of the Gnomes, the Thirteen Factories, and the Reinford Group. Chairman Irina understands this. Even as the world nears its end, she seeks the most logical path as chairman of the Reinford Group."
"Franz...Irina...what happened to you?" Gywn asked sadly.
"The Gnomes is what happened to them." I answered.
"Al of this runs completely counter to anything I would've expected." Musse muttered
"But hold on. This 'one true god' you're talking about...are you referring to the Society's Grandmaster, or Liam?"
"Hmm, good guesses." Albeirch replied. "But if I can make a suggestion, why don't you ask The Steel Maiden for the full story?"
Lianne? What would she know about it?
"No...this can't be true." Alisa said. "The mother I know would never support a plan like this."
"Oh? And what do you know, child?" Alberich responded. "I can understand you want to believe in your mother."
"You're wrong. It's not about that. Like Levi said, we already know the full truth. The truth is that you, Black Alberich, are a persona created by Ishmelga and took over my father."
"That's right. We also know this whole thing is nothing more than the Ebon Knight's plan to become the Great One." Rean said. "Controlled by Ishmelga itself."
"To him, the Great Twilight is not the means, but the goal." Musse added. "What would happen 'after' the end of the world, were there even to be one, is not his concern at all."
Alisa nodded. "Right. There's no merit to the Reinford Group going along with your delusions. So I know for a fact that she'd never do something as stupid as making a deal with you!"
"Well...of course I wouldn't." Irina replied. "I signed off on a deal stipulating the production and testing of weapons and devices. Not assisting with the end of the world. Though I do admit to feeling a little sentimental at the start."
"Mother..."
"I'm here, simply because it was the perfect opportunity to observe this battleship's field test. Doing so allows me to chart RF's best course of action, to scout out any promising new talent...and to see just what it is my former maid plans to do, now that she's thrown aside the name I gave her."
That surprised Sharon a little. "Chairman Irina..."
"Irina Reinford..." Alberich grunted slently.
"Since we're on the topic-George, you're just as bad." Schmidt said. "You act as though you're a member of the Gnomes, but don't think I haven't noticed your painful lack of conviction."
George's mood suddenly changed. "Tch, I..."
"While Makarov and Tita progress in bounds, you, my third disciple, seem quite comfortable in that rut you're in. Where, pray tell, is the resolve I saw in you when I first took you under my tutelage, hm? Now is the time for you to show me."
"Professor..."
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Endure Grief)
"Hah, I'd like to see it, too." Angelica said as she got ready to fight. "Whether you face us as Georg or George is up to you. We'll take you on either way."
"Yeah, the time for talking is over." I got ready as well. "So come on, prove that you can still think for yourself, despite following the Gnomes orders like a puppet."
"You've always been a part of our family, Sharon. That much hasn't changed." Alisa said. "I'm not giving up until you realize just how much you mean to me!"
The others got out their weapons.
"Lady Alisa..." Sharon said.
"Gh...fine!" George responded. "You want to see my resolve?! Then I'll show you! I'm done holding back, Angie! You too, Levi!"
"Come on, then." I replied. "Time to finally pay you back for your crimes!"
"I will face you with everything I have." Sharon said. "I suspect neither of you would be satisfied otherwise."
"As you wish." Musse nodded
"I've waited four whole years for this one. Time to finally settle the score!" Sara added.
"Personally, I don't care which of you wins. All I ask is that you show me your full potential." Irina said.
"We will be watching with the utmost scrutiny. Of that you can be sure." Schmidt added.
"Alisa, Angelica, Levi! We're with you on this!" Rean respond.
"Right. It's time I can finally let out my frustration!" Cedric nodded
"Now let's begin a showdown of our scenarios!" Venti smirked
"The Arseid school will grant you no quarter." Laura added
I continue my link with Alisa and then George and Sharon came at us with full force. Sharon with her wires and Georges with his combat shells attacks and had it transform into a hammer and built. But it won't be enough to stop us as I swirl and slash both George and Sharon as Alisa cover me from the distance. Then as George dodge and punch me. I begin to use Primordial Storm on him. And then Alisa buff us and then she fires her craft onto Sharon. I begin to leap into the air, swirl my Glaive and then come down with a wide slash projection onto her. Angelica landed punches and battle techniques onto George who fought back with his Combat shell and then Sharon trap me with her wires. She lands some strong slashes onto me and then I begin to return the favor with Spiral Pillars onto her and George. I had my Glaive stab on the floor, then leap on my Glaive and spin around and kick both Sharon and George to unbalance as the rest follow up. Alisa fire her craft again and Rean flame helix on both of them. As Angelica land some kick projection onto both of them and Laura and Cedric landed some strikes onto them and Venti summoned a storm eye on both of them. As they're pushed back. Angelica and Alisa launched their S crafts onto them and landed incredible damage onto them. Then, they begin to be on their knees.
"Hah... We won..." I sighed.
"Yeah...I think we got our point across." Rean said.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Things Entrusted)
"Gh...why did I..." George paused.
"Hmph. So even to the end, you couldn't pull the trigger." Schmidt muttered.
"Heh. Why don't you just admit it already?" Angelica asked. "No matter how much you try to get rid of him, 'George' still lives on, somewhere deep inside you. Or maybe...you just couldn't bring yourself to throw away all those days you spent 'pretending' to be our friend. You can call it a character you were playing, or a dream. But we all know the life you lived as our friend was real."
George look surprised and then he look the other way.
"George! Angie! Are you all right?!"
"Sheesh. What are we gonna do with you?"
Just then, monitors showing Crow and Towa appeared.
"'Sup. How ya doin' Just thought I'd drop you guys a call from Ordine." Crow smirked
"We've stopped half of their anti-aircraft cannons. We should be able to reach you soon!" Towa added. "So please, wait for us, George!"
"Towa… Crow..." George whispered.
"I never expected you'd be able to bring light back to the eclipse." Sharon said. "You've grown into a most remarkable fighter, Lady Alisa."
"Like I said, I'll do whatever I must to bring you back, as many times as it takes." Alisa replied. "Because that's what family does for each other. You get it now, don't you, Sharon?"
"Of course...your words have pierced me, straight and true. To the point where I regret that my contract was ever completed."
Looks like it's working. So to speak.
"My, my...I expected a better performance from an En—" Shut. Up." I interrupted Alberich and glared at him. "No one ask you to talk. Furthermore. They give it everything they got. You should at least have the decency to praise them for their hard effort. But why am I wasting my breath? You're nothing more of a husk. If I hear another word from you. I will teleport to your location and silence you myself. Starting by removing that parasite from your corpse!"
"Irritating little—" Alberich growled. "Hmph. No matter. Irina, return to-"
"That's Chairman to you." Irina interrupted. "The only people in this world allowed to address me like that are my father...and the man I love. Franz's return was the condition for our contract to end. But after listening to this madman's delusions, it's questionable whether those conditions have truly been met. The contract, therefore, remains valid. You may choose whether or not you remain under my employment."
Sharon looked at her in surprise.
"Mother!" Alisa respond in surprise
"Oh, Irina. You always throw me for a loop." Gwyn said.
"I'm so glad." Rean smiled
"Man, for an all-in-one super-maid, you really made a mess this time." Sara added.
"Yeah, you both were completely and utterly duped by that parasite" I winked. "I assume you'll evaluate that one as a critical mistake and that you won't repeat it again?"
Alberich laughed. "So be it. If we're all done here, I may as well commence the final experiment. I hereby present to you my capstone project, my masterwork which will hasten the Great Twilight's completion!"
Suddenly, an alarm rang and a hatch above us opened.
"What?!" Rean growled
"Something's coming!" Musse stated
Then a giant mechanical aion came from above.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Conspiracy in Motion)
"What the heck?!" I exclaimed.
"One of the society's Aions?!" Sharon asked in shocked. "No…"
"Is he really going to unleash that thing here?!" George asked in shock.
"Ah, I see. The one produced by the 5th Development Division." Irina said.
"So this is your capstone project." Schmidt added.
"Behold, the ultimate model in the Zauber Soldat line." Albeirch said. "Once the Empire absorbs every last bit of the Republic, these machines will cover the entire continent. Though they may be autonomous robots, there is no limit to the power they can output. Panzer Soldats and Divine Knights cannot compare."
"Oh really? Then what about me?" I smirked. "You saw I can crush those Aions, right? Why don't I do the same to this disgusting machine of yours?"
"No, leave this one to me, Levi." Rean replied as he raised his arm. "Heed my call, Valimar, the Ashen Knight!"
"To me, Testa Rossa!" Cedric raises his arm
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - With Our Own Hands!)
"Adknowledge!" Both Divine Knights respond
Valimar, Testa Rossa, and the Musse, Venti, and my soldats appeared, ready to do battle. I guess I'll use my soldat then. Me, Musse and Venti enter our soldots while the Awakeners enter their Divine Knights.
"Honestly, we don't get paid enough to do this." Venti said.
"No matter how much power that thing has, it's still unmanned." Rean added. "Let's do this!"
"Right behind you, Instructor!" Musse nodded
"Roger that. Let's take this trash back into the trash hole of Alberich where it belongs!" I smirked.
"You can count of me! Let's do this!" Cedric added.
And so we begin to ready for battle. We charge in as the Giant Zauber Soldat as it launch it attack onto us. I swirl my Glaive and strike while the others strike as well. The Zauber Soldot launched a powerful stomp unto us and we taken damage. But then Venti and Musse fire powerful blast while Cedric equip with a bow and launched a powerful attack as he follow up. Rean launched a follow up along with me and we strike at it's opening. The Zauber fire a laser beam attack onto it. Soon Musse fire a powerful shot and Cedric launched a powerful sword slash. I follow up with a Wave of Neptune. Rean follow up with a Hexil strike. Then we all launched a powerful attack onto it. Then we got it on break strike. We all launched an attack and then soon we defeated it.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Bell, When It Is Ringing)
However, we notice when it was defeated. It was moving unusual. Something's wrong. This isn't any normal malfuction.
"Huh?" Venti asked
"What the hell is it doing?" Sara growled of the machine's unusual movements.
Suddenly it then aimed at Irina and Schmidt.
"Mother!" Alisa yelled.
I let out a roared and launch my Glaive at the Giant Zauber Soldat and pierce it's core and even destroy the generator and then I zoom at it, got my Glaive, and then tear it into pieces.
"The barrier generator's destroyed." Rean said.
"Damn you, Levi Sullivan!" Alberch growled.
"We've confirmed the barrier is offline." Towa declared.
"The Zauber Soldat is destroyed as well. Sounds like mission accomplished to me." Angelica nodded
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Sorrow Flower)
"All right! Now our way to Zephyr is clear." I added. "But before that..." I glare at Albeirch "What a failure you become chief of the gnomes. You dare call yourself an engineer? Your 'capstone projection' malfunction and attacks bystanders. Clearly, this proves you don't know what you are doing. Instead of breaking it down, it malfunction, allowing us to destroy it for good. Then again. I'm talking to a parasite who's borrowing a body and the brain with the knowledge he stole. Not the true engineer himself."
"You…!" Alberich growled.
"I agree with Angel Boy." Schmidt turned to face Alberich. "It was a marvelous feat of engineering, but not quite the weapon you claimed it to be. Using the Great Twilight to grant it autonomy was impressive, I'll concede. But its tendency to lose makes it impractical for use. In the end, Franz's Panzer Soldat designs surpass it by far. Failing marks. I don't know who you are or where you came from, but you pale in comparison to my first disciple."
"Schmidt…"
"Leave it to Levi, and this old badger to really lay into him." Gwyn said.
"...Fine. I'll yield for now. Your victory here changes nothing, after all." Alberich replied. "And the end result will be the same, no matter who wins the coming Rivalry. One way or another, you will fulfill your role as the Sacrifice, Rean."
"Sorry, but I don't intend to meet your expectations." Rean said. "I'll win the Rivalries, but on my own terms. And once I do, I'm coming for your master."
"And so will I." I added. "And when I have my hands on you, you will be begging for mercy as I torment you until you wither and die. Once you're done, I'll destroy your creator for good."
"Oh, will you now? I'll be looking forward to it." Alberich asked. "Georg, I'm very disappointed in you. The Black Workshop no longer requires your service. Where you go from here makes no difference to me."
He then disappeared.
"Hmph. Gone for now." I said.
Soon I got off my Soldat as Rean and the others got off as well. I then walked over to Sharon and I could see Alisa worrying so much.
"Levi wa-"
I snap my finger and cast a barrier to prevent Alisa and anyone else from interfering as me and Sharon are within the barrier. I cross my arm as I glare as Sharon.
"Sharon...the day you turned on us and the way you've stood against us was unforgivable." I said. "It was a betrayal of trust that you worked so hard to build, only for it to shatter in mere moments. However, I will listen to your reason."
"My reasons?" Sharon asked as she look confused.
"I will always give people chances to explain themselves. So far, you only had strike one. And well, that will depend on how you truly feel, about not just Alisa, but about the whole Reinford family, about us, about your friends that you grew to like and be around with. And also, how you truly feel about your life and what kind of life you wish to have that is your own, and not the Society's."
Sharon look surprised.
"And considering the fact that you were tricked into your betrayal, I think it's safe to say you got no strikes." I wink. "But before I undo the barrier. I still want to hear your answer. Do you care about Alisa? The Reinford family, and about us Sharon?"
"I..." Sharon look down in shame and then smiled. "I do. I do with all my heart."
"Then there is nothing more to say."
I snap my finger and then undo the barrier.
"I take it you've made your decision, then." Irina then came up to us. "The Franz I married has not returned. A part of me knew that from the very start. Levi is right, I made a critical error, one that I will never repeat again. Therefore, our contract is still in effect. It seems you'll have to continue your service a while longer. I trust you have no issue with this, Sharon?"
"Ah..." Sharon rubbed her eyes and smiled. "It would be my greatest pleasure, Madam Chairman. I...Sharon Kreuger, shall remain in your services for as long as you require."
"Oh, Sharon..." Alisa sighed in relief as she rush over and then hug Sharon.
"Stubborn to the very end, that daughter of mine. Always taking the long route home." Gywn sighed. "But I'm happy we're a family once more."
"Yeah, me too." Rean said.
"I can understand that. Just like my reunion with Olivert." Cedric smiled
"What a touching sight of this tale. It would be a great story to tell." Venti smiled.
"It's time we repaid her, for all the care she gave to us as students." Laura smiled
As I chuckled. Just as I'm going to turn to George for his judgment. I saw him turn his back against us, he then pulled out a gun and aimed it at his head. I gasped as I realized what he was gonna do and I was not gonna let it happen. Angelica saw it too, but she feared that she would be too late. I cast a spell from my left hand and take George's gun into my hand from a distance. Before he can react and the gun appeared in my hand. I zoom in front of George and use my right fist and punch him in the stomach.
"Ngh!"
He fell to his knees.
"Sorry...you don't need it anymore." I said before I used my strength to easily break the gun into pieces.
"Levi?" George asked. "Why?"
"You truly think committing suicide is the only way out for you? Don't be an idiot!" I replied before he grabbed him by the shirt and lifted him up with minimal effort.
"He's right." Angelica said. "Where exactly, do you think you're going, all on your own?"
"Nngh… You should know...I've already burned all my bridges. Where else could I possibly go?" George responded.
"Well, for one thing, you aren't going out like that." I replied. "The strikes I place on you had been removed. I want to make that and this perfectly clear. You may not be a murderer now, but I still want to punish you for your crimes. So I'll give you a non-lethal punishment." I looked at Angelica. "At least, let me have that."
Angelica stood back. "Yeah, go on..."
I nodded and I started punching George all over. I punch his left eye twice, then his nose, his chin and his cheeks twice. Once his face was bruised and sporting a black eye, I let him go and watched him slowly get back up, Angelica helped him of course while I watch and cross my arm.
"Thanks, Levi." Angelica whispered.
"I should've had more than that." George said weakly. "Everything 'Georg' has hurt, all that I've destroyed… None of it can be taken back or forgiven."
"And? So what? The world's about to end. Look at Crow, his time's running out, even as we speak. You wanna bow out now? While you still have the chance to make things right?"
"But..."
"As a jaeger, I took more lives than I can count." Sara said. "It doesn't matter that I did it for the sake of my home. A life is still a life. And that weight stays with you forever. But I know you're strong enough to carry the weight of your own mistakes."
"She's right. I mean, remember all that crap I pulled as C? I was a freakin' terrorist for crying out loud. Even Levi back then hated me for betraying his friendship." Crow added. "I'm not hoping to be forgiven, yet he forgive me after I explain my reason. My past weighs heavy on my conscience, but that's just something I gotta live with."
"George, I won't ever forgive you if you try to leave us like that again!" Towa exclaimed. "Even if I have to use force to make you do it, I'll...I'll make sure you carry your burden, because I'm your friend!"
"Crow… Towa…" George trailed off.
"Not to mention, your Intel and experience as a Gnome is highly valuable." Musse said.
"See? There are still things you can do. You owe us that much." Rean added. "So please, don't give up on yourself, you're not finished yet."
"You guys..." George replied.
"Their argument makes sense. You should take it under consideration, Third Disciple." Schmidt said. "You can find a better use for your life than tossing it away. Consider it my final test for you."
George finally smiled. "Thank you, Professor. I will accept that task."
He then activated a teleportation technique.
"George?" Angelica asked.
"I'll be in touch. And when I return, I promise I'll make myself useful." George replied. "As a member of the Gnomes. But more importantly, as a graduate of Thors. And please, tell Prince Olivert and the others...that I'm sorry."
He then vanished away, leaving us wondering where he was gonna go. As for the rest of us, the battle outside was ceased to a halt since the ship no longer had the ones in charge around. Emily and Theresia did what they could and the Courageous II responded in kind by picking all of us up, and Sharon and Schmidt went with us, whilst Irina and Gwyn left on a smaller ship to find their own way forward.
All right! Looks like that barrier is deactivated! The next chapter will be the Third Rivalry! It's not surprising that Levi hates Alberich so much. Man, I keep forgetting a few things again. Did you guys notice Levi is experiencing something new to him from the past chapters? Like... Ah. You'll find out.