Trails of Cold Steel: Twilight Saga

by mysteryfriend16

The Great Twilight and Rean's been capture by Osborne and the Gnomes. Class VII, old and new, join by everyone throughout the world begin their plan to stop Osborne, and the Great Twilight. With war on the horizon that leads to the end of the world, they seek answers, and plan to rescue Rean in the progress. Will they save the world before the war or darkness consume all?

2. Awakened

"...Hey Juna..."

"Juna... Wake Up..."

"Rise and shine, sleepy head."

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - A Gentle Nap)

"Mm..." Juna let out a moan as she opened her eyes as yawned and rub her eyes. "Huh?" She blinked as she look at the classroom.

"Ah, morning sunshine." Venti let out a chuckled as he is wearing a red uniform instead of blue

"Sleeping in class?" Kurt fold his arms as he also was wearing a red school uniform. "Hmph... Were you up late last night or something?"

"Yes." Altina nodded as she also wears a red uniform. "She was reading cookbooks and looking up recipes well past midnight."

"So that's why. Someone really wants to master cooking, huh?" Venti asked with his arms on his desk and relaxed as he laidback.

"Oh… Kurt…, Venti…and Allie…" Juna said as she turn around. "Wait… what's with your uniform?"

"Heh, you're still dreaming or what?" Ash asked

"I bet she was having a lovely dream about whoever it is she's planning to cook for!" Musse said with a tease.

"Musse and Ash too?" Juna tilted her head a bit. "Hold on… how are you here, Ash…? Didn't you…?"

Ada let out a sighed. "Goodness. Would you all please simmer down?"

"Class is about to start. You need to snap out of it and focus." Frtiz added

Juna then turn to them."Ada… and Fritz? You guys are supposed to be in the main campus…. What's going on? Why are you two here?"

"You really are out of it, aren't you? Did you hit your head or something?" Cedric asked who was sitting next to Kurt.

"What? C-Crown Prince Cedric?! What are YOU doing here?!"

"Are you serious? Maybe you did hit your head after all. I'm here waiting for class to start. We're classmates now, remember?"

Kurt sighed. "Did you seriously forget? The main and branch campuses being merged? All out classes being rearranged?"

"His Highness, Ada, and Fritz were added to Class VII. But that was two weeks ago." Altina said.

"Heh, they've only been here two weeks, but these scrubs are already acting like they own the place." Ash shrugs.

"Watch your mouth! I won't allow you to disrespect his highness like that!" Ada pouted

"Well, anyway, the fact that we are all at about the same point in the curriculum made things easy." Musse said

"True. The transfer was fairly smooth, all things considered." Fritz added

"Oh, uh I guess that rings a bell, now that you mention it." Juna nervously laughed. "Haha… man, I must've just had some crazy dream or something."

"Ugh, I'm so tired…"

"Heehee. Good morning, everyone."

The students then turned their heads and came into the classroom was a scruffy man with a lab coat and a woman in a green dress.

"Eh?" Juna tilt her head. 'Who are they?'

"Okay, uh, Class VII. Looks like you're all here, so we're going to start with today's announcements." Said the man with the labcoat.

"Sorry, everyone. We still don't have a homeroom teacher for you yet." The woman replied with an apology but let out a warm smile after. "But the two of us are going to support you as much as we can, so please give it your all."

"Thank you, Instructor Mary." Ada said.

"You as well, Instructor Makarov." Cedric said.

"Anyway… Today's class schedule First off, we've got applied info processing." Makarov said and then class begin.

Class Seven students begin to take out their pencils and notebooks and then begin to write down their lessons.

That's right... We don't have a homeroom teacher, huh... Ah, shoot. I need to focus on the lesson.' Juna thought as she continued writing down until the bell rang after lessons were over.

Juna and the others begin their next lesson in computers as they begin their typing speed as Kurt, Ada and Altina helping Juna, while Musse, Ash and Venti were already becoming familiar with it, as Cedric and Fritz helping them too. After that class, Mary begin her next lesson in music as Altina was singing a song and sing beautifully, her classmates let out applause. The next thing that happened was all Class VIII students were on the training ground where they practice their combat skills, honing by fighting each other while the Gun and Archer shoot their targets. Juna and the others begin their club activities with several students joining them. Along with their Pokemon.

'Those days I spent at Thors were so warm and fulfilling.' Juna thought with all the warm activities she and her friends done together. 'I was surrounded by my friends and classmates. They were all so brilliant and talented, I could barely keep up. But together, we all supported each other and pushed each other to grow... and not just when it comes to academics. We gave our clubs and our personal lives everything we had, too. But for some reason, I couldn't shake the feeling something was missing. A voice that guided us. One that was calm, but carrying way too many burdens... It was a little push from time to time, but you could feel the kindness behind it... The voice of someone who had gone through a lot, despite not being much older than us. But who's voice could it have been? I couldn't remember...'

(BGM ended)

Soon... nightfall begins to break as Juna and the others retire to their dorms.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Stillness of Night)

Juna and Altina are in their room as they study for their next exam. Juna was later feeling tired.

"Quaxwell?" Juna's Quaxwell shook Juna's shoulder as Altina notice.

"Juna? Are you okay?" Altina turn to her. "Your Quaxwell is also worried. Your mind seems to be elsewhere today. Are you worried about something?"

"Oh!" Juna flinched a bit before facing Altina with a nervous smile. "Y-Yeah, sorry. Sorry to worry you guys. You know... You've really grown up, Allie." She let out a smile. "You never would've picked up on something like this back when you first came here."

Altina let out a pout. "Ahem... Understanding such emotional intricacies has taken a great amount of efforts. But I owe much of what I learned to you, my Wartortle."

"Wartortle!" Altina's Wartortle cheered. "And... Umm..." She stare for a moment.

"Allie?" Juna tilt her head before realizing something. "Wait! You, too?"

"Me, too... what?" Altina raised an eyebrow. "I joined Thors branch campus as part of my work with the Intelligence Division. And then I... I met him again..." She let out a gasp. "Huh... Him? Who's him?"

Juna then got up from her chair. "I've got a plan! Let's get out of here, Allie."

"Hm? Where are we going?" Altina asked.

"We're not going to feel any better staring at these four walls. We'll have to stick to the ddorms with how late it is, but I think there's enough fresh air out there to clear our heads. Why don't we go and chat with Kurt and the others? They shouldn't be asleep yet."

"Okay." Altina got up from her chair. "I'll come with you. Wartortle, come with me too."

"You too Quazwell."

"War/Quax!" Both Juna and Altina's Pokemon nodded as they begin to leave their room.

"Let's look for Kurt first. Maybe he's in his room." Juna said.

"We should check to be sure. It's at the far end of the hall." Altina reminded as they visit Kurt's room which is also Cedric's room.

They knock on the door and no response.

"Hmm... He doesn't seem to be in his room." Juna said

"He must have gone somewhere." Altina said.

"But I don't think he would leave the dorms this late at night."

"Quaxwell, Quaxwell." Juna's Quaxwell grabbed her skirt and pointed down stairs.

"Oh, you know where he might be? Lead the way Quaxwell." Juna smiled as they follow Quaxwell downstairs as they heard fighting going on.

"Oh... that sounds like..." Altina turn to head to the training room.

"Aha! He's in the training room! Good work Quaxwell." Juna smiled

"Quaxwell." Juna's Quaxwell said with pride as they go in the training room where Kurt see his sparing with his Prinplup as Kurt let out some slashes with Prinplup block with it's flippers and used Metal Claw on Kurt who block it and then launch a powerful slash to push Prinplup back.

"Phew..." Kurt panted. "Thanks for the sparing match, Prinplup."

"Prinplup." Kurt's Prinplup replied with a smile until they heard clapping.

"Heehee. Lookin' good Kurt, Prinplup!' Juna clapping.

"Your swordsmanship is as fluid as ever." Altina added with a smile.

"Oh." Kurt put away his swords. "Juna, Altina. Along with Quaxwell and Wartortle. What brings you guys out so late?"

"We're jus tout to get some fresh air." Juna answered. "What's up with you, Kurt? Don't you normally practice in the morning?"

"Normally, yes. As for tonight, I just had the urge to train for some reason. Since my Piplup evolve into Prinplup, he became a sparing partner of mine. It feels like I'm so close to reaching a breakthrough, but something's standing in my way. If only I could speak with him at a time like this." He said before he blinked. "Wait... him? Who's him?"

"Prin?" Kurt's Prinplup tilt his head.

Juna and Altina look at each other and nodded.

"How about you tag along with us then?" Juna suggest.

"You could keep us company in our travels for the night." Altina added

"I'm not so sure... Are you planning to go out around town at this hour?" Kurt asked.

Juna shook her head. "No. All the shops are closed at this hour so I don't see the point of going. Not to mention we've been locked in for a long time." She said before she look serious. "Hey guys... Do you remember who was in charge of us before? You know... our homeroom instructor?"

"Hmm..." Altina rub her chin. "I can't recall for some reason.

"Hmm... You mean before Ash and Musse join the group? Can't say I do either for some reason. Someone who filled that gap for three months I think... Before His Highness and the others arrived two weeks ago."

"Prin?" Kurt's Prinplup turn to the door.

"What is it Primplup?" Kurt asked

"So this is the dorm belonging to Class VII. Quite Homey." A voice said behind the door, causing Juna and the others to look surprised.

"Was that... someone's voice?" Juna asked.

"That voice I don't recognize... and yet for some reason... it's familiar." Altina said.

"They don't appear to be here. Let us proceed upstairs." Another voice said as their footsteps went further in the distance.

"They seem to be heading upstairs. We need to follow whoever those are and find out who they are." Kurt said.

"Yeah. Come on!" Juna nodded as they begin to follow the voices as they leave the training room and headed upstairs where they see two groups foot going up stairs. "They're going up to the third floor where the instructors are!"

"Let's investigate." Altina said as they head the door open that lead to the room very close to them. "They went inside. Is everyone ready?"

"Yeah. Let's go." Kurt said as then barge into the room. "Freeze!"

(BGM ended)

Kurt, Juna, Altina and their Pokemon then see two men with mustache and overall clothes.

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

"Oh! Juna! Kurt! Altina!" The Red overall man said.

"There you guys are!" The Green overall man cheered.

"Wait, you know us?" Juna blinked until a floating pillow appeared next to the overall man. "What the heck?!"

"Ah, we found them at last!" Said the pillow.

"Did that pillow just talk?" Altina blinked.

"Ah. I see. They've are too deep into their dream state." Said the pillow. "Please be at ease. We're are not your enemy. In fact, we came looking for you."

"For... us? Who are you?" Kurt asked.

"Well we are your friends." The green overall man answered.

"Our... friends?"

"Indeed. But it seems you came at a good time." The Pillow nodded. "Please, take a good look around this room."

Juna, Kurt and Ventu look around.

"Ah..." Juna look around at the room that was very familiar to them.

"A scroll with Eastern writing..." Kurt said before they notice a Tachi and then many photos of Rean.

Rean's picture with the New Class VII, Rean at the center, next to him with a wink and a peace sign was Levi, Musse, Venti, and Ash to his right, Juna, Kurt and Altina to his left with several Pokemon with them too. Most specic, Rean and Levi's Pokemon.

"Instructor Rean!" The three of them yelled as the room slowly begin to turn white.

"Ah!" The Pillow look around. "They'll awake soon enough! It's time to leave!"

"Oh yeah!" The man with red overalls nodded as a portal appeared behind him and he jump in while the other man in green vanished alongside the pillow and the whole seen flash in white.

(BGM ended)

---

Outside the dream...

Juna was the first to rose up from bed.

"Was all of that… a dream?" Juna look around.

"Those strange school days we spent with everyone? It seems so…" Kurt said

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

"W-Wait, you had a dream about that, too?!" Juna asked

"Yes. I get the feeling we were all in the same dream together… Altina included." Kurt said as rose up next to Juna.

"Oh thank goodness, you're all okay!" A voice turn as they see Mario, Luigi who was sleeping on the red Pillow before a Dream Portal closes and he woke up and then Dreambert emerges.

"Mario! Luigi! Prince Dreambert!" Juna exclaimed.

"Juna, Kurt, Altina!" Levi called out to them as he and Venti were close to them along with their Pokemon.

"Levi! Venti!" Altina exclaimed

"Our Pokemon too!" Kurt added

"Oh thank Aidios... you guys are awoke at last..." Levi said with relief. "We thought you wouldn't wake up... Thank goodness we call Mario, Luigi, the Fairy Godmother and Prince Dreambert here."

"F-Fairy Godmother?" Juna asked.

"That's right." The Fairy Godmother was on the opposite side. "It's wonderful to see you three have awakened from your coma."

"Fairy Godmother... what brings you here?" Altina asked, looking concerned.

Fairy Godmother gave a sad look. "I'm here to help aid Prince Dreambert and the others to find you from your slumbers. Do you all remember what happened to you?"

"Ah...!" Altina gave a sad look. "I… I remember now… I was knocked out by that Duck Sorceress... and brought to that dark place… the Gral. I tried to protect everyone.. but then, Millium, she…" Altina remembered what happened next. "N-No...NOOOOOO!"

Juna hugged Altina. "I remember that as well… Valimar went berserk… No matter how much we tried to reach Instructor Rean… we couldn't stop him."

'Now, Rean. Let us begin. Together, we shall write the end to this wretched fairy tail. In ink, black as despair.' Osborne's words echoes their mind.

"Chancellor Osborne's words to Instructor's Rean are the last thing I remember." Kurt turn to the Bros. "And if you two are here... along with the Fairy Godmother and Prince Dreambert... that means..."

"Yeah..." Mario tipped his hat. "We heard the news from Palutena and the others... About Rean... and to Millium."

"Prinplup!"

"Hoone!" Kurt's Pokemon jumped to him to hug along with Juna's Quaxwell and Altina's Wartortle, Alakazam and Archen.

"Quaxwell!"

"Wartortle!"

"Alakazam!"

"Arrch!" Altina's Pokemon and Juna's creied to their trainered to comfort them.

"Your Pokemon have been worried so sick about you all." Levi said with a sad look. "Me... my Pokemon, everyone included. I'm sorry everyone... I couldn't stop Rean... I couldn't save him because of Scaramouche... And... Rean slay the Holy Beast..." Levi clench his fist as he look really pissed.

"But...what happened afterward?" Kurt asked. "How did we get here?"

"Ah yes. I guess I should explain that. We're all safe. We're in Roselia's Atelier. It's where Emma grew up. The scenery will surprise you a little when you go outside. But our Pokemon isn't the only one who was worried about you..." Levi answered until they all heard the door open.

"You're all finally awake!"

"Man, it's about time. You had us worried." A voice said as Emma and Randy came in.

"Emma? And Randy!" Juna said

"I am here as well." Roselia said as she came in.

"Did they wake up?"

"Sounds like it." Fie replied as the Class VII, Morgan, Mona, Kingdom Hearts Crew, Team Natsu, Ragna, and Palutena

"You're all here." Kurt said.

"What a relief." Gaius added. "I'm glad you're all okay."

Elliot nodded. "Yeah, you really had us worried there."

"Levi and Venti have been watching over you guys, and now you three have woken up too," Machias said. "It's nice to finally have a bit of silver lining after everything that's happened."

"I'd ask if you're all okay but..." Alisa then paused.

"No one could blame you after all that has happened." Laura said.

"I imagine you must be feeling weak and disoriented." Jusis added. "You were unconscious for two whole weeks after all."

"T-Two weeks?" Kurt asked in surprise.

"Yeah. But right now, you three need to eat. We can discuss things afterward." Levi said.

"Nuh-uh. We're talking now. You need to tell us what the hell happened." Juna responded. "And what in the world is an atelier? There's no way we're still in Heimdallr, right?" She said as she and Kurt got out of their beds and looked out the windows to see the village and they were in silence.

"My, for someone who spent the last two weeks dozing, you certainly are pushy." Roselia sighed. "As the elder, I suppose I should explain. We are currently deep in the heart of a pitch-black forest. Welcome, to the home of the Hexen Clan. The hidden village of Eryn."

"I'm sure you know this, but as a reminder, the Hexen Clan is a clan of witches that is hidden throughout Erebonia's history. With that said, go dress up. We're prepared food for you all to eat to regain some stamina." Levi said.

Kurt let out a sighed. "All right."

"Come on, everyone." Levi got on his feet as he and the others leave the room while Kurt and the others get dressed up.

(BGM ended)

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

After they gotten dressed, Levi guided them to the Dining room where they sit down and began to eat some soap and meal to rejuvenate their bodies. After they finish eating, Emma, Rosalia, Randy, Venti and Levi gather around the table.

"Are you all fed?" Levi asked.

"Yeah... we're okay." Juna nodded. "Has it really been two weeks? What happened to all our friends?"

"It has. Don't worry. Everyone who helps us with the Gral are safe. Palutena teleported the Fighters back to Smash Bros Castle, and Instructor Thomas used his Stigma to teleport everyone in the Branch Campus, Tio, Tita, Towa, Angelica and Agate to a safe distance. However, they were split up. I managed to contact the entire branch campus students. They're all okay." Levi answered.

"Oh thanks, Aidios..." Kurt sighed in relief. "So Sidney and the others are okay? Where are they?"

"Well, I haven't gotten an update yet, but each of them is in different parts of Erebonia. You're free to call them and find out."

"Oh right! We're able to communicate with each other!" Juna sighed in relief.

"Yeah. However, I'm unable to contact nor find Tio, Tita, or Towa. I'm not sure what happened to them, but Randy, Angelica, and I have been looking for their whereabouts. But I'm sure they're all right. They have their Pokemon companions with them. Still, it concerns me that we haven't talked for two weeks. I just hope they're okay." Levi sighed. "But back to the matter of the Gral... that battle exhausted us completely. After Rean slays the Holy Beast, he goes toward Osborne and his group of villains. But the Steel Maidens and Rutger came in with their Divine Knights to stop him. Then Osborne summoned his Divine Knight and captured Rean and Valimar. Then the entire Gral became unbound. In other words. It's going back to its original dimension and plans to take us with it. Celine plans to rescue Rean, but Osborne activates a teleportation circle and teleports himself, Rean, and Valimar away, taking Celine with them. Afterward, Emma used her magic to teleport us all out of the Gral, and Roselia teleported us to the Hexen Clan."

"I see..." Juna frowned.

"However, there's something else you should know. Musse isn't among us."

"What?"

"Now that you mention it... where is she?" Altina asked.

"Musse is currently... unable to talk to at the moment. Turns out, Musse is in league with Vita." Levi explained.

"She is?!" Juna asked.

"To be honest... I had a feeling that was the case." Levi sighed.

"You even knew? When?" Emma asked

"Before we head out to the Gral. There were some hints that no one would notice. I imagine Aurelia is the same. Musse played her hands well to hide the truth. Before Emma can teleport us away, Grianos appears out of nowhere and takes Musse with her. And her final words were to say goodbye... and leave Ash and his Pokemon to her."

"I see..."

"Damn, even the principal?" Randy asked. "Nothing gets past you, Levy."

"So much happened while we were unconscious..." Altina sadden.

"What was Musse thinking?" Kurt asked

"I always thought there was something odd about that girl. In all honestly, I never expected she and Vita to be working together." Roselia muttered

"Yes, it was quite the shock." Emma nodded. "She's even been teaching her magic."

"I imagine she's been learning other magic aside from her learn in Fiore like Mushroom Kingdom's magic or any other magic that can come in handy. She has been more interested in honing her magic capability." Levi added as he folded his arms. "Anyway, now that her secret has been revealed. She's in a pretty tough spot. Jusis knows this as well. If you want to know more. We can go ask him."

"Okay, I guess we'll do that..." Juna sighed

That's far as our memories go." Kurt turn to Randy. "How did you end up here, Instructor Randolph?"

"Oh, it just ended up working out that way. After Emma teleported you all out of there, I've noticed you three, minus Venti were on the floor, completely exhausted. I came to check on you, but the entire place was distorted so I ended up being teleported with you to here." Randy explained.

"Well... I'm glad that everyone else is safe." Juna said. "I'll be sure to contact everyone. But I'm concerned about Tio, Instructor Towa and Tita."

"I can't believe we lost two whole weeks..." Kurt muttered.

"It couldn't be helped. That's just how much the battle in the Gral exhausted you." Roselia pointed out. "Using the Panser Soldats linked to the Ashen Knight further increased the burden on you. You may need even more time to fully recover your mana."

"The rest of us, except for Venti and Levi, only woke up a couple of days before you did." Emma added "That battle really took out a lot from us."

"Wait, Levi and Venti were the only one who still had stamina left?" Kurt asked in surprised.

"Well... I did tell you guys I had a bundle of energy." Venti scratch his hair. However, I can't deny that it also exhausted me. After some rest. I was able to recover some amount."

"Same. I was so close to purifying the Holy Beast... but Scaramouche got interfere..." Levi muttered. "He's... my mother's true son. He had a vendetta against me which I'm sure some of you back during that time with Grima..."

"Yes... But I'm very worried about Celine..." Emma trailed off.

"Celine is physically linked to Emma." Roselia reminded. "If anything bad were to happen to her, Emma would know right away. So far, things have been quiet."

"Yes, but I have been unable to sense her for a while, though." Emma nodded.

"She must be somewhere difficult where magic is heavily limited." Levi suggested.

"Yes. I think so as well. Even during the civil war, her presence felt very faint to me."

"It sounds like the two of you have a relationship similar to Claiomh Solais and myself." Altina replied, before she realised what she said and look down, feeling hurt.

"Altina..." Levi looks at her with the same feeling about Millium.

"Allie... I'm sorry." Juna sadden.

"It can't be easy, thinking about what happened to Millium." Kurt nodded

"But I'm more enraged for what happened to Ash, Rean, and Millium..." Levi clenched his fist and his teeth "Being used as a Sacrifice for that damn curse... I swear I will avenge her... Osborne... Alberich... George... Ouroboros... I swear... I will make you all pay in blood."

"Levi..." Emma sadden.

Levi let out a deep sigh to calm down. "Right now. It's tough for all of us. Especially with Rean. As I said earlier. He's been captured by Osborne, the Gnomes, and his Ironbloods."

"The Ashen Knight- who has been consumed by his power- and the Sword of the End are with him." Roselia added "As Levi added earlier about that. She is there as well."

"So far, I can only speculate that Rean and Celine are somewhere in Erebonia... No...perhaps the Black Workshop is most likely. I have a feeling they're there. My guts tell me. Levi said before turning to Juna and the others. "Everyone, I know things are tough now after what happened. But right now, don't push yourself too hard on yourself and each other. There's still time for us to come up with a plan to rescue them from the Black Workshop. Right now, we need to rest. Why don't we have a tour around the village?"

"A capital idea." Roselia nodded in agreement. "We have some lovely hot springs here. You can use that to rejuvenate yourselves."

"Right." Levi nodded as he stood up. "Shall we, everyone?"

"Yeah... let's go." Venti nodded as New Class VII got up on their feet and left the aterlier as they see the village of the Hexen Clan.

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Ancient Oath)

They agreed and when Emma and Roselia left, I left with the new Class VII and Crown Prince Cedric and they saw the view of the outside village.

"It's beautiful, isn't it?" Levi asked new Class VII.

"Yeah, it really is." Juna agreed.

"As far as illusory village go, yes. To think all this was hidden deep within the great forest." Kurt said.

"Yeah. It's truly earned the magical village category." Venti nodded. "Even now, I'm still not used to it."

"Let's go talk to the old Class VII and our friends who are here in the Hexen Clan." Levi suggested. "I'm sure the Old Class VII need some cheering up."

"Understood." Kurt nodded

New Class VII begin to wonder around the village where they took a right turn, and passed the flowerbeds and the Erynflowers where they found Laura accompanied by her boyfriend, Felix, Ingrid and her Pokemon, Feraligatr, Quagsire, Bewear and Bisharp. Felix upgraded his appearance to Fire Emblem Three Houses appearance clothes and haircut.

"Hey there Laura, Felix, Ingrid." Levi called out to them.

"Oh, hello everyone, New Class VII." Ingrid greeted them "I see you're all awake. Thank the goddess too."

"Are you guys all right and well rested?" Felix asked.

"You're Felix and Ingrid, right? From Fodlan? I certainly wasn't expecting to see you both here." Kurt said. "But to answer your question, we're stretching our legs a bit after overslept."

"Thought so. I heard about what happened. It must have been exhausting. A Pity I couldn't make it and join the fight."

"Same. Some of us in Fodlan like to do the same. But it's good that you're all okay after a heavy battle. Remember not to push yourself." Ingrid smiled

"Thanks for that." Venti smiled. "But... Um..." Venti look sad as he turn to Laura. "I don't want to bring it up but... Laura... about your father..."

"It's all right." Laura said with a sad smile on her look. "From what I've heard, a state funeral has already been held. For him, Prince Olivert, Toval, and the rest of the fallen crew. They said the explosion had completely incinerated their bodies. It was a procession of empty caskets. Yet I still couldn't bring myself to attend. Maybe that's the reason it hasn't really hit me yet. It just doesn't seem real."

"Feraligatr..." Laura's Feraligatr turn to his trainer and gave a sad look with the other Pokemon.

"Laura, it's okay. It's natural to feel that way. I was like that too after Glenn's death..." Felix said to comfort her.

"We heard the news from His Majesty (Byleth) and Lady Sothis after Lady Palutena and Princess Peach past the news. It shocks us to the core." Ingrid looking down.

"I rushed my way over here when that distortion vanished. The goddess of light was kind enough to take me to the Hexen Clan with the Elder's permission. I was worried sick about Laura, the rest of you, and the Courageous." Felix said. "I'm relieved that you're all okay... but the part with the Viscount..." He let out a sigh. "Damn... those bastards... To think they would use a dastardly move to place a bomb on the Courageous... My blood is boiling with rage thinking about it."

"You're close with the Viscount huh? You are Laura's Boyfriend." Levi said.

"The Viscount was a good man. Honestly, I was looking forward to a sparing match with him once I reached his level. But just like Glenn... that will never happen." Felix clenched his fist tightly.

"Felix..." Laura placed her hand on her boyfriend's shoulder.

"It's okay... But this hurt you more than it hurts me. My father also mourns for his loss. They became good friends after the war with Fodlan was over. Still... what concerns me as well is your Instructor."

"Right... "When I think of Rean, Celine and Millium on top of that, it's more than I can even bear." Laura said, with emotions kicking in. "An Arseid is supposed to be strong at times like this. To lead. To inspire. Have I learned nothing? Have I not grown one bit?"

"Laura..." Ingrid sadden.

"Feraligatr/Bewear/ Bisharp/ Quagsire..." Her Pokemon respond to comfort her.

"Laura, don't say that." Felix said. "I may not be able to give the proper words but... that's up to you to find out. But there isn't anything wrong with letting your emotions out. You can lean on me."

"He's right, Laura. Holding back your tears doesn't make you weak or a sign of weakness. It would make you feel better to let it all out." Ingrid agreed.

"Thank you..." Laura then hug Felix as he hug back, letting out her tears and her cry silently as Laura's Pokemon join the hug as Bewear hold back to not overdo it with the hug.

"Thank you... everyone..." Laura pulled back and wipe her tears. "I'm a little better now. But words of woe will do nothing to mend matters. The new Class VII is finally woken up. Now is the time to plan for the future, not weep over the past."

"Right. We'll go explore around the village and check on everyone. Let's go guys." Levi said as he and New Class VII took off as they jump off the ledge and walk into Lux Lunae Inn where they encounter Randy, Machias, Mario, Luigi and Dreambert sharing coffee while on the other side was Sora, Donald, Goofy, Riku, Kairi and Mickey.

"This is the Lux Lunae Inn. It's a local tavern. No village is complete without one, I suppose." Levi said as they approach Sora and the gang.

"Oh hey guys!" Sora said. "Glad to see you're okay."

"Did you got enough rest?" Goofy asked.

"Yeah, we sure have. What about you guys?" Venti asked.

"We're okay after what happened. Hard to imagine two weeks has passed though." Mickey said. "Still, are you all okay?"

"We are yes. What about the rest of you?" Kurt asked.

"Oh we're fine. Never expected we would be that exhausted to wake up in a couple of days." Goofy said.

"I guess what happened back in the Gral was our greatest challenge." Riku fold his arm.

"No kidding. I thought that time in Fodlan and the Keyblade Graveyard was our most challenging outcome." Kairi nodded.

"Oh it's never going to end isn't it?" Donald asked as he sighed.

"Yeah. And to make things worst, I can feel a powerful darkness that spread through the entire country of Erebonia." Mickey looking down.

"The Curse of the End..." Altina said.

"Yeah. This Darkness is unlike I have ever seen before. I fear what will happen if spreads further into this world." Kairi said.

"Yeah. I'm worried about Rean though. And that giant robot of his after what happened." Sora added.

"You mean Valimar." Donald told him.

"I hope he's okay too. I know we'll find a way to rescue both of them." Goofy said.

"Yeah. He help us big time. Now it's our turn to return the favor." Riku nodded

"Thanks guys. That means a lot to us." Juna smiled.

"Anytime fellas. After all, you help us with Xehanort. We couldn't defeat him without you. I'm glad we came to this world."

"Same for us too. Let's go chat with the others." Levi said as they leave Sora and the gang alone for now and approached Machias, Mario, Luigi, and Randy.

"Hello Class VII!" Mario waved at them.

"Hey Machias, hey Randy, Mario Bros." Levi greeted them

"It's nice to see the two plumbers again." Juna smiled.

"But this is quite the interesting group. The Mario Bros sitting with Machias and Instructor Randolph." Kurt comment

"The Mario bros aside, it's strange to see Machias and Randy sit with each other." Juna said

"You think so?" Machias asked. "I'd say we get along just fine."

"Yeah, Macchiato and I are tight. And we've worked together before- three months back I think?" Randy nodded "He went out of his way to ask permission to use the SSS building for a meeting. I was real impressed with his manners."

"So that's how you knew each other." Venti said.

"Wait a minute... 'Macchiato'?" Juna asked

"I asked him to quit calling me that, but you know how he is." Machias sighed

Randy chuckled "Aw, c'mon, don't be such a buzzkill. You should be honored. I don't give guys nicknames all that often."

"So I'm one of the lucky ones?" Levi asked

"Yep. I called you Levy, right?"

"True. I feel special when you call me that."

"Yeah. I was thinking the same thing."

"So we don't get any nicknames?" Luigi asked.

"Nope. But you guys are all right without the nickname. After all, you guys are cools." Randy answered.

Kurt nodded. "That's right, I think only heard your nicknames for Juna, Altina and Venti."

"Hehe. I adore the nickname he gave me. Venny." Venti chuckled

Altina then had a dry face. "I never gave him permission to call me 'Alteeny'."

"Same goes for 'Junie.' Juna nervously laughed.

"In any case. We should continue looking around." Levi suggested as New Class VII nodded.

They leave the inn and carry on as they walk around toward a building where that appears to have storage and Jusis sitting on a bench, accompanied by a Golem, Steelix, Tyranitar, and his Pokemon, a Rapidash, Aegislash, Hoxorus, and Lycanroc as he pets his Lycanroc.

"Hey there Jusis." Levi greeted them as they approached him. "Wait... these Pokemon..."

"And that hat... That belongs to Millium... right?" Altina asked, looking sad.

"How did you get your hands on it? Along with Millium's Pokemon?"

"It made its way over to me somehow, through the space-time distortion. For Millium's Pokemon... they were in Altina's arms before she passed them down onto her." Jusis answered. "Perhaps it was fate itself that brought me here."

"I see... maybe so." Kurt said.

"Orion-Altina rather. I was thinking I'd give this to you, once you'd woken up." Jusis then offer Millium hat to her. "Please, take it and Millium's Pokemon. You were the only family she had."

"Golem."

"Steel." Millium's Pokemon nodded in agreement.

"I...I can't." Altina shook her head. "You should be the one to hold onto it. That's what Millium would have wanted."

"I have to agree with Millium on this Jusis." Levi nodded.

"I see, very well, I'll take good care of it." Jusis replied. "However, I can't say the same for her Pokemon however. You recall what Millium said to you correct? She ask you to take care of them."

"Tilly. Here. Take care of them for me."

"Ah..." Altina look sad as she turn to Millium's Pokemon who also look sad. "She did say that."

"What's more, Roselia mentioned that Millium's Pokemon made a promise to protect you in Millium's stead. It was something she talk to them."

"Millium..." Altina's tears begin to come out.

'Oh Altina..." Venti begin to hug her to comfort her as Altina hug back, letting out a soft sob.

"I'd actually convince myself that I'd never be able to get over things, so long as it was in my possession. Still, in a way, I'm almost relieved to keep it, as maudlin as that sounds."

"Jusis..." Levi sighed. "Still... things aren't looking good for Erebonia with that caused now covering the entire country."

"Indeed. You were right to mention about the situation Levi. It's more imperative that we figure out how the board will play out from here."

"The board?" Kurt asked

"W-wait, does this have something to do with whatever Musse's been up to?" Juna asked.

"Levi did say you might know more about the situation." Kurt replied

"Levi was already aware of it. In fact. He already knew from the very beginning." Jusis replied.

"Yes. He did mention something about hints that he noticed." Altina said.

"All I did was notice some interesting patterns as well as the timing." Levi nodded. "Musse made some clever move by using some of the facts and truth to cover her tracks."

"Which is why I'm not surprised how sharp you are... You still have my thanks for not telling anyone about her true identity." Jusis nodded. "Now, listen closely, and try to follow along. Musse Egret is a disguise to hide her true identity. Her true identity is Mildine Juzalith de Cayenne. The soon-to-be Duchess of House Cayenne once graduated. After she reveals herself in the noble council and gains our support for her to be the next head of House Cayenne, she informs of us the future that will happen to Erebonia. The War with Calvard and the National Mobilization Act. She predicted that something sinister will happen in Heimdallr, and it will play directly in the Chancellor's hand. In order to counter this problem, she informed the nobles to gather soldiers in secret for her army. And that her next field study will take place in Heimdallr. And that whatever the Chancellor will cause, it will not only endanger the citizens of Heimdallr but the rest of the world as well."

Class VII was shocked to hear what Jusis had told them... Even Levi was surprised but it all made sense to him.

"So Musse's actual identity is Mildine Juzelith de Cayenne, the soon-to-be Duchess of the Cayenne Family." Kurt hummed

"The pieces are all coming together, so to speak." Altina said. "I assume the Intelligence Division knew of this all along."

"W-wait, so all of this is for real?" Juna asked. "You're seriously telling me that Musse 'foresaw' the possibility of something going wrong in Heimdallr, and headhunted the top members of the provincial armies just to prepare for it?!"

Jusis nodded. "That's precisely what I'm telling you. The Weissland Army, she calls it."

"Well, that would explain why she didn't come back with us." Venti said.

"Indeed, I only know what I've been told, but it seems Brigadier General Bardias, General Le Guin, and Vita have also been in cahoots with her. Tens of thousands of elite troops, all gathered together in secret, with the recovered Pantagruel as their flagship. It's possible that they intend on independently opposing the chancellor and his faction."

"That girl..." Levi pinch his nose. "Does she realize how insane that is, right?! Surely Musse realized that she was still outnumbered and outgunned by the Imperial Army, considering the powerful people who are on the Chancellor's side? Sure the number of tens of thousands is a formidable number... but it still pales in comparison to that of 800,000 soldiers the Imperial Army has. Not to mention the National Mobilization Law in effect... The number of soldiers, and supplies will increase each day. Her efforts are all doomed to fail entirely!"

"She's well aware of this, hence why she's parted company with the rest of the Four Great Houses." Jusis wave his hand. "The Weissland Army is on its own from here on out. Nevertheless- that girl will find a way. She's almost certainly weaving a counterplan against the chancellor, even as we speak. Her keen foresight on how things would occur left even Marquis Hyarms and myself bewildered. But I'm certain there are many other risks involved that we couldn't even hope to imagine. We ourselves were blind to Musse's true intention until only recently. As such, it is critical that we determine what steps the government and the Weissland Army might take next."

Levi sighed. "Musse... I swear..."

"It's all right, Levi. Such is my duty as a lord of the Four Great Houses, as well as the brother of the enemy we've found in Crossbell's governor general."

"Are you sure, Jusis? I know you're still shocked about it, but Rufus..."

He nodded. "Indeed. I was in shock when I heard that he wasn't my actual brother."

"And that makes you two cousins, right?"

"I suppose it does. This is a very complex situation, to be sure. It's far from clear what the 'correct' course of actions might be." Jusis then stood up. "But the blindfolds are off now. All we can do is face what lies ahead. And I know even without Rean, he would want Class VII to remain strong. Just as you pointed out, Levi."

"Yeah. I know." Levi nodded as Jusis then left. "Jusis..."

"Well, that help clean some things up, at least." Juna said.

"Still... Jusis is taking things pretty hard."

"Yeah... Instructor Rean isn't the only loss he has to deal with." Kurt nodded

"Indeed." Altina nodded

"I'm sure everyone feels that way." Venti nodded.

"All right, let's go chat with the others." Levi said as they continued wandering around until they made their way to the center plaza where they saw Elliot, Gaius, Crow, and Morgan.

"Oh look who decided to come." Morgan said with a smile.

"Hey what's up new Class VII? I see you're lookin' better." Crow said.

"I can see that deathly pallor's finally left your faces, at the least." Gaius added.

Juna nodded. "Yeah, thanks for watching over us."

"And for the help you gave us back at the Gral as well." Kurt said. "We're in your debt."

Altina hummed. "No words can express the amount of gratitude I feel toward the old Class VII."

"Aw come on, you guys helped out too." Elliot replied.

"Yeah, except I didn't help because I was busy planning with the wedding." Morgan sighed before turning her head to Crow with a deadpan look. "You could at least tell me before you ran off. I could have had some fun!"

"Sorry about that babe." Crow scratches his hair. "I knew the problem with the Great Twilight was gonna be huge. I thought we could pull it off."

"Well, you fail completely now that the Great Twilight is here along with the Curse of the End. It would be completely different had I come along."

"Oh yeah? What would you have done if you came along when facing a powerful group of foes in one place?"

"I could come up with tactics that can work, depending on what we have gone on. What's more, how is that different than Xehanort if you have the Fighters helping out?" Morgan asked as the group sweatdrop.

"Okay, major point taken. I know you can handle yourself in a fight. But you know full well I don't want you to get hurt. Espcually since I know how this wedding stuff is important." Crow told her.

"Well, I suppose I can't deny that. All right, I'll let you off the hook. I suppose even if I come along, I can't always predict the next outcome or play how things pop out. Espcually if powerful units can turn the title of battle... let alone a bomb that..."

"Yeah..."

"Speaking off changing the tide of battle... I thought my powers were enough to make a difference, either way." Gaius added as he hung his head low.

"Gaius..." Levi trailed off.

"Sorry. Pay my grumblings no mind. I wasn't ready. Simple as that. It's just something I'll have to work on."

"Well, in any case, you've only just woken up." Elliot reminded. "I know you might feel reenergized, but try not to push yourselves too far, okay?"

"We'll try, thanks for the advice." Juna replied.

"All right, let's go." Levi said as they began to walk around until they arrived in Gandolf's Orbal Factory. "Here is Gandolf's orbal factory. If you want to modify your battle orbment, come here." Levi told the students and they see Sara, Fie and Team Natsu. "Hey there you guys. Working on your orbments."

"Yeah, I couldn't take just sitting around doing nothing." Sara replied.

"I kinda wish I'd asked Toval more about orbal arts when I had the chance." Fie said

"It truly is awful to what happened to him... along with Olivert... and the Viscount too." Lucy said.

"Yeah. I didn't expect them to do something that sinister." Wendy nodded

"Damn those bastards. They're gonna pay for what they did to our friends." Natsu growled.

"Natsu..." Happy sadden

"We owe Prince Olivert a lot. I know the King and Princess Hishi must be shocked over the knews." Gray sighed.

"Yeah. Even everyone in the guild. The Fairy Tail Guild I mean." Erza said.

"Yes. Everyone was shocked they heard the news. The Guild Master ask if we plan to avenge him, make sure to let them. Prince Olivert was kind to all of us. We owe him a lot of gratitude." Carla sighed.

Sara sighed. "Seriously...how am I supposed to break the news to Micht?"

"Is the Bracer Guild planning to get involved in things this time?" Kurt asked.

"Could be." Sara nodded. "We haven't been able to get in touch with any of the key players yet, though."

"We managed to contact Agate but we couldn't contact the other bracers who are here in the Empire for now. I imagine something must be going on." Fie said. "We'll look for them once we've pulled ourselves together."

"But there's no need to rush into it. You all need to take some time to recover. That includes you Levi." Sara advised.

"Huh? Why me?" Levi asked

"You been working hard for all of us. Scouting for information, contacting our friends, even taking care of all of us. And it's not just you. We're letting old Class VII have some space to bounce back, too."

"I suppose... And the new Class VII has also only just woke up. All right. We'll take things slow for now. After all, they're just stretching out their legs." Levi sighed. "All right, Let's continue guys." He said as they leave Gandolf's shop and walk their way to the left and they see Roselia, Mona, Yen Sid, and Emma near the trees with Emma's Pokemon, Claydol, Espeon, Reuniclus, Meowstic, Froslass and Delphox.

"Well this is an interesting group." Venti said as the four of them turn to them.

"Mona, Master Yen Sid." Altina said.

"Hello everyone. I'm glad to see you're awake." Mona said.

"You all fought well in your battle in the Gral." Yen Sid said.

"Are you having a walk around the village?" Roselia asked

"Ar you sure you guys have enough rest?" Emma asked.

"Well... we're definitely getting there! ... Sorta." Juna answered.

Kurt nodded. "It's a bit hard to relax after all the information we've had dropped on us."

"We concluded that keeping ourselves busy might help us get over the shock." Altina said.

"Like that bluebird we saw back during our time in Crossbell and even now." Venti said.

"Ah yes, you speak of Grianos. I'm sure you know this but he is Vita's Familiar. Just as Celine is for me." Emma said. "Grianos original been slain by Rufus's hand at the end of the civil war."

"Th-The governor general killed a witch's familiar?!" Juna asked

"That is indeed what happened. However. I'm still surprised that Grianos was brought back to life." Altina said

"Unlike Celine, Grianos wasn't blessed with the ability to speak." Roselia said. "But Vita bonded with him closely nevertheless. He is irreplaceable. To all of us. I'm not sure how Vita managed to receive him in a short amount of time. But according to her from Emma, she had some help. Whoever these people are have some knowledge that might be outside my wisdom. Such as Master Yen Sid here."

"You honor me with your words, Roselia." Yen sid said. "Though powerful and master in the arts of magic I may be. There are some discussions that are outside my knowledge."

"Humble as always I see. In any event, I hope that nothing bad happens to Celine. I pray we don't lose her."

Levi hummed "To be honest, I thought I sense a faint presence somewhere during our time in the Gral. I wasn't expecting it would be Grianos. He never leave Vita side until he goes on scouting or acts as a communicator. I wonder if Vita managed to conceal his presence with her magic."

"Perhaps magic like your concealment magic Levi. It's possible Vita must have learned about it or has learned from other magic formulas." Mona suggests. "After all, we have the Mushroom Kingdom's magic and Fiore. She could have pick them up from there."

"True. Vita has expended her knowledge of magic." Emma nodded

"Hmph. Which is why I had Emma purchase some magic books and other items for me to look into. Granted, there are some magic that even I wasn't aware off. But it did prove to be useful." Roselia fold her arms.

"Um... What's concealment magic?" Juna asked.

"It's a type of magic where you turn invisible and completely erase your presence. It can be used to infiltrate places. The only downsides are that it will wear off if you bump into someone outside of its magic, or you speak too loudly, or someone with really sharp senses can sense you. But in any event, we should get back on topic. So far, nothing happened to Celine, right?"

"Yes. I know I've said this before, but if anything happens to Celine, I'll know immediately." Emma nodded

"As long as Celine is okay."

"Well. That seems as good a point as any to bring this dreary exchange to an end." Roselia declared. "I don't care much for and nauseates, but I advise you grant your weary bones a bit more rest out of your stay."

"Of course. We'll make the most of it." Kurt nodded

The group then made their way pass Roselia and the others as they spotted a building.

"This here is the Hexen's Clan very own hot springs. Unlike the other hot springs, the Hexen's Clan Hot Spring is from the Spirit Veins, making it pure. If you enter it, you'll feel rejuvenated. According to Roselia, it's a Fairy God Springs." Levi explained.

"Whoa, that's so cool!" Juna eye sparking.

"We can take a tip at it another time. Let's continue on with the tour." Levi said as they walk back and then encounter the Mario Bros, Prince Dreambert and Fairy Godmother. "Hey guys!"

"Ah, hello New Class VII. How are you feeling?" Mario asked

"More of less good. Thanks for waking us up." Kurt replied.

"I'm glad to hear that. And we're also glad to be of assistance too." Dreambert said. "Alas, it seems I must return to Pi'illo Island after this. A lot has transported when this evil wave wash over Erebonia. My people fled back to the island when it stur."

"I see... So the Pi'illo can see it." Altina said.

"Correct. They are magical being themselves." Fairy Godmother smiled.

"That reminds me... I thought the Dream portal only works on Pi'illo Island. So how did it work outside of its territory?" Juna asked

"With my help of course. Sora and the others connected me. That battle you all had was more exhausting then any battle you have faced. But more frightening battle between light and darkness will clash."

"She's right. And just when we can get a break from Xehanort..." Luigi sighed.

"Well, here's hoping we find a way. It's good to see you all again. We should be heading out, we'll catch you another time." Levi said

"Okay. See you later." Mario waved as they took off.

New Class VII made their way into Lemuric General Goods.

"Whoa!" Juna look around. "This place's packed with all sorts of stuff."

"Something about it seems rather peculiar." Altina mentioned.

Kurt hummed. "Not so peculiar, when you consider it's set up in a witches' village."

Levi chuckled. "As if our adventures isn't peculiar places to set up a shop." He said before they see Aqua, Ventus and Terra. "Oh hey guys."

"Oh hey New Class VII!" Ventus waved at them. "How are you feeling? Good and ready?"

"Pretty much so. we're stretching our legs." Kurt said.

Terra nodded with a smile. "Glad so. Just remember not to over-push yourself. Remember, you are taking a break."

"Right. So how your little tour to this village of witches?" Aqua asked.

"So far, it's quite beautiful." Venti answered. "What about you guys?"

"We can say the same. It's not often you visit a secret village hidden from the world."

"Yeah. It's just goes to show that you know so little about the world." Ventus nodded.

"Or worlds for that matter." Terra said. "Still. I'm glad that we're all made it out after what happen from the Gral."

"Yeah. But the only downside is the Great Twilight... and the Curse of the End is here." Aqua sighed. "That curse is similar to that of darkness. And to make things worst, it's affecting not just people, but the Heartless."

"Even the Heartless are affected by it?" Altina asked

"Yeah. We encounter some Heartless during our little mission. They were like... enhanced or something. And I don't mean like the Heartless with Red eyes too. Heartless usually are not part. But ever since those new types of red eye heartless appeared in Fodlan... things are becoming more scary for the Heartless."

"Hmm... There are a lot of things we need to consider now that the Great Twilight has happened. And what will happen if it affects the world. That's something we can't overlook."

"Agreed. Not after how everyone help us with Xehanort. Espcually the other problems too." Terra nodded.

"Well, if we find out more, we'll be glad to help." Juna said.

"Glad to hear it." Aqua smiled.

"All right, let's keep moving everyone." Levi said as he and the others spotted Alisa who is with Ragna at the moment as she was looking down.

"Alisa, are feeling okay right now?" Levi asked.

"Oh, look who's here." Ragna fold his arms. "Nice to see you guys."

"Hey Levi. New Class VII. Good to see you on your feet again."Alisa replied. "Don't push yourselves, all right? You've been stuck in bed for two weeks now, after all."

Juna nodded. "I guess we are a little rusty after two weeks in bed."

"Were you looking through the books here?" Kurt asked.

"Yeah, they have a lot of rare stuff on display, so I thought I'd take a look." Alisa answered before she looks gloomy as Levi turn to see what cause it until he see it.

"Does it have something to do with the latest issue of the Imperial Chronicle?" Levi asked

"I thought we were in a different dimensional space from the rest of the world." Kurt reminded.

"We are. But according to Roselia, the residents regularly venture out into the outside world to get various supplies. If you recall what Roselia ask Emma about the magic stuff from the Mushroom Kingdom, Foire and other places."

"Usually the latest issue of the Imperial Chronicle gets here within a day or two of it being published." Alisa added before she looked gloomy and looked away.

"I know that look, Alisa. You're scared aren't you?"

"Haha...I'm not surprised you can tell Levi. You must think I'm-" Alisa hugged herself.

"Stop." Levi interrupted Alisa. "Alisa...we talk about this."

"You're right... Sorry about this Levi. I know you're doing much for everyone's sake. Because of this Great Twilight mess, the Empire's a total train wreck. When I think about what happened to Rean, and Millium, and Laura's father, too. And then, there's how the person who caused all that hurt is..."

"Your shitty father, we get it." Ragna fold his arms. "Alisa, take a word from me. Don't think about it. After all that happens, I get that there are too many things that are sudden and shocking. You just need to calm down. Making you feel pathetic isn't going to help you."

Alisa let out a shivered sigh. "Y-You're right. Sorry, everybody. I know I should be trying to set a better example. I need to find out what part my mother's playing in all of this. And I'm curious about what Sharon's doing too, now that she's back with Ouroboros."

"Ah. Right."

"I'm gonna go read this in my room. You guys take it easy, okay?"

"Of course. You should too." Levi nodded as Alisa pick up the latest issue, went to the counter to purchase and then begin to leave the store. "Black Alberich..."

"That guy who is supposed to be Alisa's dad, right? To think he's a twisted son of a bitch. He reminds me so much of Terrumi and Relius. Like two dastardly people fuse into one." Ragna growled. "When I see that man. I'm going to personally end his life."

"Ragna..." Juna trailed off.

"I agree. Alberich and Osborne need to pay with their lives after all the things they done." Levi nodded. "He may have created both Millium and Altina, but he's going to pay for what he's done to the world... and to Alisa." Levi clench his fist. "Come on. Let's continue on with the rest of the tour." Levi said as he and New Class VII resume touring the Hexen Clan until it's over. "All right, that's all of it." He said as they look up at the sky.

"The sky above Eryn seems so strange..." Kurt said.

"Yeah... It's like we're in a completely different world." Juna nodded.

"Well, we are within a different dimension." Levi told them.

"The Hexen Clan village is quite a mysterious place..." Altina nodded. "What should we do now?"

"Let's head back to Roselia's atelier. There's something I want to discuss with you." Levi answered as they made their way back to Roselia's atelier. "All right. I'm sure you all saw this... but my classmates are suffering right now."

"Indeed. Especially Alisa, Laura and Jusis." Kurt added.

Altina nodded sadly. "And it really shows how much Millium meant to them."

"Espcually Rean." Levi nodded. "However, unlike my classmates, Crow is the only one who is doing something."

"Really? What is he doing?"

"Not sure. He wouldn't tell me. Though I imagine it has something to do with Bowser back in the Mushroom Kingdom. He's doing all the help he can do. But it's heartbreaking for me to see my classmates... even Sara rely too much on Rean. Just as we did..."

"That's right." Altina nodded

"He wasn't merely the center of this group. He was their rock. Everyone drew strength from just his presence." Kurt added. "Like with Sora, Bowser, Mario, Princess Peach. Many people we know."

Levi sighed. "You're right. And I'm nothing more than a cheap knockoff."

"Don't say that. You're just much as a leader as Instructor Rean is." Venti stated. "After all, you been working hard for all of us. You contacted many of our friends, and even searching far and wide to search for Instructor Towa, Tio and Tita."

"Venti..." Levi trailed off before he shook his head with a smile. "Yeah... you're right. Tch. Here I am being negative. Has my classmate's influence really affected me that deeply? We need to knock them back to their senses."

"But how are we going to do that? Also, what about the situation with Musse and Ash leaving us?" Juna asked.

"Musse...or should we call her Duchess Cayenne?" Altina reminded. "It's quite difficult to believe she was putting plans in place the entire time we knew her."

"Yes, none of this feels real." Kurt said. "Levi aside, she has a much better grasp on the situation than any of us could have known."

"Geez Musse..." Venti sighed. "But right now, all we know is that Instructor Rean's held captive somewhere. We don't have any leads or even any methods on what we can do to find him."

"Even so, that doesn't mean we should stop." Levi nodded "After all, what was the point in fighting for our lives, if we're just gonna give up?"

"You're right...it is kind of annoying, though." Juna replied "She said she'd take care of Ash, but we have no idea what she's actually planning to do."

"Perhaps we should speak with Ash in person." Venti sighed

Just then, Roselia walked in. "Back already, I see." She walked in with Randy

"Yeah, they had a good walk." Levi replied. "However, my classmate's moral is a different problem."

"Well, can you blame them? From what Emma's told me, the combined power of the Gnomes, and the Blood and Iron Chancellor is completely overwhelming. So much so, they could bring about the end of the world with ease."

"We shouldn't forget they also have Ouroboros, Cornelia, Epimenides, numerous groups of villains, and two strongest Jaeger corps at their side too. But what concerns me are the Divine Knights."

"Yeah." Randy nodded. "Besides Valimar and Ordine, we have about four Divine Knights running around now. And one of 'em- that Ebon Knight- Chancellor Osborne is piloting himself.

(BGM ended)

"That Knight had an aura unlike any of the others. As if it wanted to dominate all it surveyed." Kurt nodded

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Bonds -Relations-)

"Yeah, honestly, it gave me goosebumps just looking at it." Juna added. "I mean, the other Divine Knights had powerful auras too, but that one..."

"Its power is beyond that of any Divine Knight... almost like it's the leader of the Divine Knights." Venti comment

"Well, if the Blood and Iron Chancellor's behind the wheel, it's gotta be bad news." Randy nodded

"Yeah. Another problem we need to deal with." Levi sighed. "Still, despite that, we're going to stop Osborne and the Gnomes."

"But how are we going to do that?" Juna asked.

"Come on guys, don't tell me you forgotten that time with Xehanort." Levi asked.

"Oh!" Altina eye widen as they recalled they managed to defeat Xehanort's impossible odds.

"Hey you're right... we managed to defeat Xehanort and his Organization completely!" Juna said.

"The odds were almost impossible... and yet... it's thanks to our friends and numerous allies help. We were able to defeat Xehanort and his Organization for good."

"And that same appliance goes for Osborne and his Gnomes." Levi nodded. "They may have incredible numbers now in terms of military and strength, but we do have friends who can help even and overcome those odds. If we can defeat Xehanort, we sure can defeat Osborne and the Gnomes."

"You mean the Fighters of Smash Bros?" Roselia asked

"Not just them. I mean ALL our friends and allies." Levi answered. "Some of you already notice their skills."

"Hmm... I can't deny that."

"Which is why we're going to need everyone's help. I'm sure by now this situation will affect all of us. I have a feeling it's going to be the case. But first. I need to knock some senses into my classmates." Levi turn to Juna. "Juna, Kurt, Altina, Venti. Gather all of the Old Class VII, except for Crow, and bring them here."

"You got it!" Juna nodded with a smirk on her face as she and the others took off.

(BGM ended)

"You got something, Levy?" Randy asked.

"Yeah." Levi nodded as he waited for a few minutes until all of the Old Class VII, minus Crow, gathered in Roselia's Atelier.

"Okay Levi, we gather them up." Juna said.

"Thank you, Juna." Levi smiled as he nodded before he gave a serious look to his classmates.

"Um... Levi?" Alisa responded.

"What is it you wanted to talk to us about?" Jusis asked.

"I...kind of get the feeling you're upset with us." Machias said.

"I'm more than upset. I'm angry and disappointed in all of you." Levi fold his arms.

"Us? About what exactly?" Elliot asked.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Even if That Warmth is Small)

"That you all made yourself completely pathetic!" Levi yelled at them, causing them to flinch. "After all the years I've known about you guys, you never once let anything so bad like what happened in the Gral stop you. But ever since Rean was kidnapped, you all lost the will, hope, and spirit to keep fighting. You and I both know that Rean wouldn't want to see us like this. What's more... you have even forgotten that right now, Rean is suffering right now... and what have the rest of you been doing!? All you have been doing is sitting your asses, moping as we lost hope! Instead of finding a way to save him! Why do you think I have been doing this for the past two weeks?!"

Alisa gasped.

"We all know Rean by now, don't we?!" Levi swing his arm. "We all know that Rean wasn't going to let anyone else die, especially after what happened to Millium. And espcually back in the Civil War with Scarlet. That's exactly why he chose to put his own life on the line to save us, but even that wasn't enough."

"That's true..." Kurt said quietly.

Levi then drenched his fists together, revealing his frustration. "Altina tried to protect him from certain death, and I tried to protect her and Rean, and purify the Holy Beast... but Scaramouche got in the way... And in the end... it was Millium who paid the price." He then look sad. "She became the Sword of the End so she can protect us in Altina's place. I blame myself for letting that happen." Then he look at his classmates with determination as he placed his hand on his hip. "But even though I blame myself. I still move forward, no matter how bad or dire the situation is. That is what Crow said to us before he was going to die and revived by King Bowser's hand?!"

The Old Class VII eyes widen.

"If Millium were here right now... She would be sad that all of her efforts would be in vain." Levi wave his arm again and looks mad."So why are we curling into a corner?! We shouldn't be curling and doing nothing! We should start planning! To find our next move! We should stand tall, gather information on where Rean is, and find a way to rescue him!"

"He's right!" Juna agreed. "The shock and grief send Instructor Rean into a rage. In trying to avenge Millium, He ended up triggering the end of the world. And now... his father, Osborne, is trying to use him for something else even beyond all that. We know that right now, Instructor Rean must be blaming himself for everything! For not being able to protect Millium! For making a mistake that can't be undone! That's why someone..." Juna's tears came out with determination. "Someone needs to find him, grab him by the collar, and shake him until he snaps out of it! To tell him that he's wrong! That it wasn't his fault!" She then becomes emotional. "Wasn't that supposed to be your job?! You're his friends, aren't you?!"

Kurt, Altina and Venti look at each other and nodded.

"If you won't do it, then we will. As his students." Kurt said. "Instructor Rean has always offered us support when we needed it most. It now falls to us to do the same for him. And I swear I will. Not as a Vander, but as a member of Thors' branch campus, Class VII."

"Instructor Rean has been my mentor, showing me the way." Altina added. "He taught me to think things for myself. Gave me the courage to make my own decisions. Helped me figure out who I really am. That's why my decision was an easy one. I'll protect everyone, just like Millium did. And like Levi did when he saved me. And I will do everything in my power to rescue Instructor Rean, so that I can thank him in person!"

"I'm sure this applies to all of you. Both Instructor Rean and Levi are someone I look up to. They continue to fight. Raising morale, and not giving up hope. Because they knew that no matter the small the chances of success. They always follow and believe in us. That we can overcome any optical and overwhelming foes. Because of them. I… no… all of us have gained newfound strength… one that we can create and push this darkness over us away! The light they both share. The melody they sing, it was all for us to take the grand stage and join as one!" Venti added.

"And that's why I'm going to ask all of you. As my classmates... No..." Levi shook his head. "As my best friends and as a member of Class VII. We overcome many impossible odds together. Are we going to sit around here and do nothing? Or are we going to believe in ourselves again? To overcome those odds and defeat Osborne and his goons, Just like we did with many villains before us. What say you?"

(BGM ended)

The Old Class VII paused for a moment...

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - A Start Line)

Until Gaius laughed.

"Sheesh, they got us good there." Sara said.

Fie nodded. "Yep, I agree. They didn't just catch up to us, they blew right past."

"And they won't have to do that alone." Levi smirked as he place his hand on his hip. " Because they're with me. If something were to happen to Rean that made him go absent, then I'll be the one to look over the New Class VII and guide them in his steed. I am their New Class VII assistant. I'm sure Rean would want me to do that. So I'm going to take the reins and help you four grow strong once again!"

"Levi...yeah!" Juna replied with a cheer and fist pump.

"You're counting on you Levi!" Venti nodded

"Looks like the new class has grown real fast." Machias said. "We came to much earlier than they did, but all we did was mope around."

"We let our sadness and our fear of what we have to do next paralyze us." Emma added.

"How could we? This is so embarassing!" Elliot asked in shock. "So much for setting an example."

"Does that mean..." Kurt said.

"Yes, you're all absolutely correct." Jusis answered. "Protecting everyone, huh? That certainly sounds like Millium."

"She's passed the baton to us. Now we must work together to what we hold dear." Laura said. "Rean has always devoted himself to helping others. We owe it to him to follow his example."

"Do you remember what we told Rean and Millium that day?" Alisa asked. "That we'd work to stop the war on the surface, AND find out what's happening behind the scenes. It's time for us to do just that!"

"I'm glad to hear that." Levi smiled.

"I was wondering what was going on. But it seem you snapped them out of it Levi." Crow's voice said as he and the other team came in. "Boy. It's a good thing I'm here. Glad my words from two years ago was remembered."

"Yep." Mario nodded. "Don't forget. You can count on everyone! Our friends even outside of Erebonia too!"

"Yeah! We wouldn't be able to defeat Xehanort if it weren't for you guys. Now it's time for us to return the favor and rescue Rean!" Sora nodded as the others behind him nodded.

"Hehehe. Look at us. It brings back members when we took down Xehanort." Erza chucked. "If we can take him down, then we can take down Osborne and his Gnomes."

"It's not going to be easy, though. Especially with that mobilization law in full effect." Elliot said.

"True, but we can start by investigating that black Pleroma Grass that sprang up after the ritual." Emma added.

Sara smiled. "Looks like all you guys needed was a little kick in the butt, and you're back on track."

"Yeah. Sorry if I was being too harsh there." Levi scratch his hair.

"No. We should be thanking you Levi." Alisa said with a smile.

"Yeah. You were doing so much for us for the past two weeks. It's only right that we should thank you." Elliot nodded. "You and the new Class VII."

"I'm glad to hear that." Kurt said. "That puts my mind at ease."

"Yeah, but this is only the beginning." Juna added. "Aside from rescuing Instructor Rean, we've still got to find Musse and Ash. And everyone else from the Branch Campus too."

"You're absolutely right."

"Lucky, we can contact them via the contacts from our ARCUS Alpha and the communication satellite build by Professor. E. Gadd." Levi smiled.

"No kidding." Alisa nodded.

"We're going to take everything back." Altina declared. "Our instructor, our entire world."

"And you won't be doing it alone." Levi nodded. "We're all Class VII. Once in Class VII, always in Class VII. And that includes every one of our friends from the Mushroom Kingdom to... well anywhere in the world."

"Right. We have many friends at our side, even outside of Erebonia." Crow nodded.

"Levi, New Class VII. You have our gratitude for bringing us back to our senses." Jusis smiled

"Yeah, thanks." Fie added

"The trail that awaits us will be the Ultimate test for Class VII worth." Laura nodded

"And that means all of us!" Elliot cheered. "Just as Levi said, Once in Class VII, always in Class VII. There's no difference anymore between old and new Class VII!"

Gaius nodded. "That's right, our shared goals have united us."

"And together, we can overcome any challenge!" Machias said.

"Right!" New Class VII and Levi nodded as Roselia, and Rady nodded.

"Wait... that reminds me? Where's Angelica?" Levi asked.

"Oh. She said something about scouting. I'm sure she'll be fine." Alisa answered.

"All right. Let's contact our friends and begin planning." Levi said.

(BGM ended)

---

Somewhere in the skies of Erebonia...

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

Flying in the sky was the Pantagruel which is covered by magic to make it invisible. Inside the command deck was Bridiguar General Bradias, Aurelia Le Quin, Vita, Musse, along with Kagura Mutsuki, Hibiki Kohaku, Konoe Mercury, Jubei, Platiumn... or rather Trinity Glassfile.

"1420 hours. We've cleared the Third Air Fleet's search radius." A Weissland Soldier informed.

"Good. Return to Alert Level 2. Now, full rudder starboard. We're headed north-northwest." Bardias commands as he forwards his arm.

"Yes, sir!"

"My, they're all so well-trained. Every soldier knows his proper place." Vita was amused before turning to Aurelia. "I can't help but wonder how the civil war would have turned out if this army of yours had been around back then."

"I can't imagine it would have changed things, in the end. At most, we might have prolonged the war for a year or so." Aurelia said, before turning to Musse. "Though if we'd had a more suitable leader, things might have turned out differently."

"I do believe you're right."

"Oh please... You're giving me too much credit." Musse giggled as her Pokemons, Dewotts, Tinkkatink and Gligar are next to her in her grand attire. "It's only thanks to your generous assistance that I even stand aboard this airship. Nor did I expect that I would bring some powerful people like Sir Kagura, Miss Nine, Mr. Jubei, and Platinum the Trinity on board."

"Haha. The flattery is all ours Lady Mildine. But it was Princess Peach and Lord Homaru who requested that we assist you in any way we can. They're also worried about the situation and yourself." Kagura wink. "However, speaking from the general's point of you, you're the one who arranged all of this."

"That's right. The way you see tens of thousands of moves ahead... You could even teach the Blood and Iron Chancellor a thing or two." Vita nodded. "I imagine you'd make a fine Anguis for the society, if you were so inclined."

Musse giggled. "Well, I certainly would enjoy meeting the infamous Grandmaster in person." She then look serious. "However, in the end, I, too, failed to stop the Great Twilight. Failing to notice that Ash had taken that gun is one of my greatest regrets. Which is why I am grateful to Levi for his sharp eye for confronting Ash and stopping him, preventing the Great Twilight from happening. However, as Roselia, Scaramouche, and Xigbar said, Levi only halted the prophecy that was written in the Black Records. And yet, I cannot figure out how Ash managed to shoot the Emperor, causing the Great Twilight."

"Good questions indeed. The only one who witnessed it firsthand is His Highness, the Crown Prince. Who suddenly went through a great change." Aurelia nodded.

"I can only speculate that a supernatural force is in play here." Vita said. "After all, we have the curse, a power powerful enough enough to completely defy the laws of causality. I believe that boy Scaramouche mentioned that the curse somehow managed to manipulate the darkness within Ash's Heart."

"And that Xehanort's Younger Self told him that during that time with Grima." Kagura added. "In all honestly, Lady Mildine, it's very impressive for you to use that gift of yours to devise a counterattack."

"Perhaps, but it's an unforgivably cruel plan." Musse sighed. "No different from taking the entire world hostage. How could I face Instructor Rean, the rest of Class VII, and the others ever again?"

"Dewott..."

"Tink..."

"Gligar..." Musse's Pokemon comforted her as she look at them.

"Aww... cheering me up? You're all too sweet." Musse smiled.

"Putting Schwarzer aside for now, what's become of the members of both Class VIIs?" Aurelia asked as she turned to Vita. "They ended up escaping to your village, did they not? I haven't heard anything more than that."

"Nor have I. At least it seems they made it there safely. Minus Ash and his Pokemon of course." Vita answered. "Though it's hard to say if they'll be able to bounce back after witnessing the worst possible ending firsthand."

"Hmm... I think they'll be fine those youngsters." Jubei said. "It may be dark times for them. However, I believe one of them can snap them out of their misery."

"Indeed." Musse nodded. "I believe in Levi, Juna, Kurt, Altina, and Venti. As Mr. Jubei said, they'll inspire the others out of their despair. Then together, along with many allies, such as the Fighters and more, they'll start moving forward. The time I spent with them in class made that more than clear."

"I'm glad to hear that, Lady Mildile." Trinity smiled. "Of course, I'm sure they'll do the same thing about you."

"I can imagine it's something cliche. It's always has something cliche written on it." Konoe said.

(BGM ended)

---

Meanwhile in the Pantagruel...

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

Ash, along with his Pokemon are running toward Crocalor, Aron, and Sandile quickly made their way to a room to avoid being scene from the guards.

"Damn it... I never asked for this." Ash complained "You think I need to be hidden away somewhere? I got myself into this shit, I'll get myself out."

"Crocalor." Ash's Crocalor shook it's head. "Crok Crock."

"It's fine. I'll-Urgh..." Ash place his hand on his forehead from what happen after shooting the Emperor.

"Aron..."

"Sandile..." Both Ash's Aron and Sandile touch's Ash's feet as they are concerned for him.

"I'm... I'm fine..." Ash muttered before he spotted his Hector in the hatch. "No Freakin' way..."

"Crok?" Ash's Crocalor turn to the Hector before turning to Ash. "Crocalor?"

"..." Ash groaned before pulling out his Pokeballs. "Return." He said, returning his Pokemon to his Pokeballs. "You don't need to worry about me."

(BGM ended)

---

Meanwhile in the Black Workshop...

Valimar was seen being chained in the wall along with the Sword of the End... however, the blue color is red, along with Valimar's form after Rean consumed by rage. Staring at it was Epimenides who look amused.

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

"Oh, look who's here." A voice said, causing Epimenides to turn and see Mcburn and Duvalie approaching him.

"Oh if it isn't Ouroboros strongest Enforcer and one of the Steel Maiden lackeys." Epimenides greeted.

"Lackey!?" Duvelie growled.

"He isn't wrong you know." Mcburn said. "Honestly. it's still a surprise that you're still alive. Didn't that vessel of yours kill you and the other one?"

"He did yes. However, I was fast enough to transfer my soul into my spare replica I had Cornelia transfer it to the Black Workshop. It's always good to think ahead in situations like this." Epimenides said with a grin. "But enough about me. Do you need me for something? Or is it perhaps a challenge from the Almighty Conglagration? As tempting as it is, I am a busy man."

"That's a damn shame. I was hoping to go toe to toe with someone whose powers managed to reach godhood level. Well, if the mood strikes you, you know who to call." Mcburn turn around and then wave goodbye.

Duavlie sighed. "He never fails to get on my nerves. Though he doesn't get more from you and your kind, However."

"Just so you know, the Blood experiments are Thales idea. Even I have standards." Epimenides fold his arm. "As diabolical his schemes are, Thales still managed to succeed through sheer luck. But found no way to increase those chances of planting a crest into the body. If he understands that, we might have won Fodlan a different way. And of course, I can't say I'm also pleased with seeing one of the groups who help destroy my brethren. But I consider myself a reasonable man so I'll let it slide... for now. After all, we are completing the Phantasmal Blaze Plan." He turn to his right. "But we're still missing one piece of the chess for now. It won't be long before it surfaces. And... we'll also have to calm that beast as well. Seeing him in that form will not suit the Rivalry."

(BGM ended)

---

Somewhere in the Black Workshop...

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Bell, When It Is Ringing)

Inside a dark room, there was Rean covered by the curse, shackling the chains that bind him, trying to free himself as he let out a groan and roar out of rage like a wild animal.

"Rean! You need to get a hold of yourself!" Celine stated but Rean in his current state refuse to listen. "Ugh. Fine then." Then Celine cast a magic force field around Rean that caused him to slowly groaned, calming him down slightly, but also causing Celine to feel tired.

"Oh. How kind of you to take my job." A voice said as Celine turn and see Scaramouche, Liam and Georg

"You..." Celine hissed from the sight of them.

"Hehe. Hello to you too Celine. Thanks for watching over Rean like a good kitty. I'll be sure to bring you some fish for you to eat." Liam chuckled.

"I don't need your generously! Espcually from the likes of you!"

"Aww don't be like that. You could consider yourself lucky, however. We could have killed you if it weren't for me, suggesting that you keep a close eye on Scaramouche's place."

"Nnngh!"

"I still don't see why we should keep this cat alive. But at least it's better for me to babysit this waste of trash." Scaramouche asked.

"Either way, we need him under control for the Rivalry. It's better to keep him like that." Georg told them.

"Whatever. The Rivalry will begin soon right?"

"Right."

"Oh just shut up! All of you! We're not going to be part of your evil scheme!" Celine hissed.

"Uh... Urgh..." Rean let out a groaned, causing everyone's attention to turn to him. "Gh..."

"Well either way, you don't have much of a choice." Liam said. "Now that he's calm down... for now. We should be on our way. I'll make sure you get your fish and milk." he said as he, Scaramouche and Gerog leave the room.

Celine let out a deep sigh. "You need to beat this... Come on... Think of all the people who are counting on you, waiting for you to snap out of this... Do you hear me, Rean Schwarzer?!"

---

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I'm glad that Levi and the new Class VII are cheering up the Old Class VII and that Crow is among them as well. I'm sure it's obvious, but with Crow alive, things will become different. But I am so eager to write this story again! It certainly took a while too. Ah, good times... I don't know why, but I suddenly had the urge to do the opening with all the characters in here.