To: Guest: Okay, I don't know who you think you are saying all of that about my writing sucks, including insulting my characters but how dare you! You're an absolutely disgusting person! You wanna know why? Well, where to begin? First off, not everyone is perfect with their writing but you can't just insult them just because they suck! Secondly: This is fanfiction. This is where everyone can write whatever they want, including the stories. How I wrote my story and my series is NONE of your business! And lastly: You're one of those cyberbullies who just want to destroy the writers, and their stories just because you don't like the story of how it's made or the characters they created. I have already seen many hateful comments from other people's stories just like you said to me, my stories, and my characters. And I don't normally want to say this message because "guests" such as yourself don't have accounts to PM... But I'll say this. You have no right to say those awful things! No matter the reasons! How would you like it if someone said that to you? If you don't like it, then you don't say anything and deal with it. That's all I have to say. I hope I don't hear from you again.
Sorry about that folks. There are a lot of people out there who are writing many hateful comments and sadly... I'm one of its victims. But hey, don't worry about me. I'm not going to let one of those comments stop me from doing what I love to do. I want to thank you for supporting me, even if you're not writing a review or just reading for the fun. To those of you who want to write, go for it. Don't let any haters stop you.
To: other guest who want to talk about the super sword art bros universe series: Hiya! Sorry for not replying to you. As much as how intriguing the idea is... I'm afraid I'm a little busy with my Trails/Mario universe. But hey, if you wanna created it with your hands. Go for it! I'm looking forward to see what you got and how awesome it is too!
Okay, that will be all folks! Let's go see the story!
Dateline, August 16th, 1206. Wednesday
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Now, Things To Do)
"For real?!" Juna exclaimed as she was on a call with Emma, Gaius, Palutena, Sothis, and Viridi with Kurt, Altina, Venti, and Levi. "What kind of lead did you guys find?"
"At this point, it's only a tentative possibility based on Grandmother's abilities, Lady Palutena, Lady Sothis, Lady Viridi's godly powers, and our investigations. But if it goes well, we may be able to pin down the Black Workshop's location." Emma said
"That's excellent news." Altina sigh with relief.
"It's just as I thought." Levi nodded. "If we can find the Black Workshop, we can find Rean and Celine. But the question is where and how do we find it."
"I understand your concern. In the 800 years since the witches and Gnomes split, we haven't found even a trace of their headquarters." Roselia said. "They may have mechanisms in place to evade our senses, or perhaps they may even hidden in a different dimensional space. If their lair exists somewhere within the Empire, however, that narrows our search considerably."
"The Great Twilight has caused unprecedented disruption in the spirit veins." Gaius stated "There are several spots across Erebonia when the local mana has been stirred into a frenzy. We call these spots 'singularities.' "
"From what we discovered, there are a total of twelve spots in notable sizes." Viridi said. "The Old Class VII and the others already checked out a few in Kreuzen, Nortia and Nord. There are four more in Sutherland and Lamare. We're still looking into the final two however."
"The plan is to plant a special tool the Hexen Clan used called Spirit Stake into each singularity to stabilize them." Palutena explained. "They will act as a sonar for us to use the map to reveal any black spots that can locate the Black Workshop."
"Ah, clever. Instead of searching for the Workshop, you'd be singling out places your senses can't reach." Venti nodded. 'I should contact Nahida and ask her how is her process going along with the others.'
"The theory is solid enough, at least." Kurt replied
"Indeed." Altina nodded.
"You three really followed all that?" Juna quietly muttered then click. "Uh, I mean, right! Sounds good!"
"Remember, there are no guarantee this will actually lead us to the Workshop." Machias pointed out.
"Unless we find those last two singularities, our odds of success aren't great." Fie added
"Still, if there's even the smallest possibility, we'll bet everything on it." Elliot said with a proud look on his face.
"Whatever it takes, we'll find Rean and bring him home!" Alisa nodded
"That's the spirit you guys." Levi smiled "And you're right. Let's do this! Operation Finding Rean begins!"
"Thank you all for your help." Altina replied
"With all of us working together, we should have it done in no time." Laura said.
"You can leave the singularities to the east and north to us." Sara smirked
"The rest is up to you, new Class VII. You as well Levi." Jusis added
"Right!" New Class VII nodded.
"And we'll help too." A voice said as joining the conversation are the Ashen Wolves. "Hello everyone." Yuri greted.
"Yuri! Or should I say Your Excellency?" Levi asked
"Just call me Yuri. No need for formalities." Yuri chuckled. "We heard the news and we wanted to help."
"I hope you don't mind letting us barge in." Constance laughed.
"No. In fact, we're glad that you can help too." Kurt smiled.
"Well we did owe you one in Fodlan. But the situation is more just that." Hapi said.
"Yeah. But lucky with everyone pulling their heads together, things will be easy." Balthus smirked.
"Just remember not to draw too much attention either." Alsin sighed. "Anyway, if you don't mind, we can accompany you in whenever you go."
"When you're ready to depart, we'll arrive to help." Yuri said.
Dateline, August 19th, 1206.
Juna wears an untucked yellow collar shirt and black necktie, with a white miniskirt, black thigh-high stockings, leather boots and a medium-length magenta coat.
Kurt wears a white sleeveless vest with a blue-sleeved shirt underneath. He also adds a pouch around his thigh, brown gloves and a light blue cravat.
Altina wears long black gloves. Black Shoes. Long Black tights. gray shorts with a black belt. A black shirt and vest with a diamond shape tie. And ribbons on her hair. And wearing her cap.
Venti wears a frilly white top with a corset-like leather midsection, along with teal shorts with gold embroidery, a matching teal cape held together by a deep blue and gold bow. He also wears white stockings with three gold diamond shapes along each leg and a beret-like hat with a flower.
"Wow, these feel great! They're so easy to move around in." Juna said. "Yours guys' new look great on you, too."
"Thank you." Altina replied. "I am surprised how well they suit me."
"I had to admit. This style suits me." Venti wink.
Kurt nodded. "Yes, I didn't expect such modern clothing from an ancient village of witches."
"Some of us bring back magazines from the outside world from time to time. It is enough for us to keep track of the latest fashions." Roselia explained. "I once try dressing a little more 'hip', as the young people say, but Emma said it did not suit me." Roselia said.
"I suppose it does behoove you as the village elder to put forth an appearance of grace and dignity." Kurt said.
"Well, I wish I couldn't seen that! I bet you were really cute!" Juna smiled. "Anyway, it seems like we can finally get started"
"Yes. Beginning today, we can take our first step... towards finding the instructor." Altina nodded
"Thanks for everything Rose. You as well Rachel. We owe you one." Levi smiled. "We'll be heading out now."
"I'm glad to hear it. The new Class VII worked exceptionally hard to recover their lost strength. Considering the trials you've overcome so far, I have every confidence you'll succeed." Roselia smiled
"There's no need to thank me, nor I could care. With that said. About the singularity's location. It would be wise for you to go to Sutherland. Do you have the tools Roselia, gave you? Rachel asked.
"Yep!" Juna said as she pulled out a pendant and a stake. "It's these stake things, right? Once we find a singularity, we drive these in to stabilize them, right?"
"This pendulum looks a lot like the pendant Emma gave Instructor Rean." Altina said.
"It's made of materials that react to large concentrations of mana." Roselia replied. "It also acts as the key linking this village to the outside world. Head through the woods on the outskirts of town. The teleportation stone there should take you to the Isthmia Great Forest. The Ashen Wolves are waiting for you there. Ah, but before you go, I have a message from some of the villagers."
"Who?" Venti asked
"Liese the innkeeper and Gandolf the blacksmith. Euclase, too. They all said they have something for you. Euclase is at the center of the village, while Liese and Gandolf can be found in their respective establishments."
"I wonder what it is they want to give us." Kurt wondered
"Perhaps something useful in our journey." Venti answered
"Aww, I feel bad." Juna scratches her cheeks. "They've all done so much for us already."
"It must be important regardless." Levi smiled. "In any event. We should get going. All right everyone. Let's move out!"
"Right!" The new Class VII nodded.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Eyrn, the Hidden Village)
New Class VII exit Roselia's Aterlier and make a turn toward Lux Lanae Inn where they go inside and see Liese.
"Ah, look who's stopped by." Liese greeted.
"Hey there Liese. You call for us?" Venti asked.
"Yeah, I mean it's nothing special, really. But you're gonna be traveling around, right? So you're gonna have more chances to cook for yourselves. I figured you might need these." Liese hand them over a recipe book.
"Ah these bring back memories." Levi smiled. "Me and the old Class VII often use this to write down reciples and cook for the group. You can cook your own specialties... and other." He then sweatdrop. "Either way, thanks, we'll definitely used this."
"Glad to hear it! Oh and take these, too. It's the ravern's recommended recipe, and the ingredients to go along the way." Liese handed over the Tasty Potato Chowder and three sets of ingredients.
"Thi is quite generous. Are you sure you want to give this much?" Altina asked.
"Don't be shy, my fear. Go ahead and take it." Liese smiled. "It doesn't matter who you are, you still need to keep up your strength. Whatever else might happen, you've got to at least try to get in some regular meals."
"That's sweet of you Liese. We'll put them to good use. Thank you." Levi smiled as they put them in their inventory as they leave the Inn and walk to the central monument, fishing. "Hey there Eu- Oh, you're busy, we'll come back later."
"Oh no need. I been waiting for you guys, actually." Euclase said.
"It would seem you are fishing rather than just waiting, actually." Altina remark.
"I can do both, can't I? Plus, it's r elated to what I wanted to talk to you guys about. I've been spending a lot of time outside the village lately, collecting intel on the rest of the world and all that. I ended up diving pretty deep into the world of fishing... In fact, I'm actually a registered member of the Imperial Fishing Club now."
"Ah, the organization for fishermen that is affiliated with the Lakelord Company. We have connections to that company too." Levi replied.
"I think I remember about having a fierce rivalry with the Fisherman Guild in Crossbell." Juna recalled.
"And how is all of this relevant to us?" Altina asked
"Well, the Ashen Chevalier's fishing prowess has been the subject of some rumors around the club. Word is that Levi and the rest of you aren't too shabby either. I wanted to ask if you have some of your fishing equipment into that inventory thing and some notes." Euclase wondered
"Hmm... the equipment, I believe they are there." Levi double-checked on his inventory. "Yep, still there. Notes. Also here."
"Ah that's a relief to here. But you must be low on some bait, so here." Euclase gave them some fish baits.
"Are you sure we can have this?" Juna asked
"Hey, things are gonna get rocky for you going forward. Sometimes you just need to cast a line or two and let the world stand still a bit. You can buy more gears or trade in any fish you catch over at the Lemuric General Store. They'll give you special rewards for catching different types of fish, too. One for each milestone. Who knows. Maybe you might fish up a Pokemon as well. I certainly have."
"Thank you. We'll be sure to check it out." Altina nodded
"One more thing: I don't know if it's because of the curse, per say, but the ecosystem's gotten a bit fishy lately- if you'll pardon my language. You'll see some strangest outlines in the water sometimes... Might be worth keeping an eye out for."
"Thanks for letting us know. We'll be sure to keep it in mind." Kurt nodded and put the Bait into the inventory.
"All right, now for Gandolf in his workshop." Levi said as they walk over to Gandolf's Orbal Factory next.
"Ah, there you kids are. Sorry for calling you over at time like this. I know you must be busy." Gandolf apologized.
"Ah don't worry about it. So what's up?" Venti asked.
"Right. Seeing as you're here. I thought I could give you this rare quartz. Here you go." Gandolf hand over an Analyze R
"Wow, thank you!" Juna said.
"Eh, it ain't nothing special. Oh, that reminds me. Did you got your orbments upgraded? Because if you can't, you would be able to use them."
"Hmm. I have upgraded mine for the past week. What about you guys?" Levi asked.
"Hmm... if I remember correctly, Tita mention that the ARCUS Alpha received an upgrade two weeks ago before we headed off to Evershade Valley. That same stuff happened to the Enigmas too." Juna recalled
"And the same applies to the original ARCUS units." Kurt added
"Hmm, does mine look upgraded to you?" Venti show him his ARCUS Alpha.
"Hmm..." Gandolf examine it. "Yep. Sounds about right. Don't have to worry about it then. Still, here's a little gift for me too. Here." He handed over 60 All Sepiths to the group.
"Nice! You sure this is okay?" Levi asked.
"It's fine. Gotta take care of our guest, right? It's only natural." Gandolf chuckled.
"Thanks Gandolf, we owe you one." Levi smiled. "I think that's everyone. Come on, let's meet up with the Ashen Wolves." he said as they leave Gandolf's workshop ad they made their way to the teleportation stone near the clearing where the Ashen Wolves are.
"Ah there you guys are." Yuri waved at them.
"Hey Yuri! Constance, Balthus, Hapi, Alsin. Glad to have you five with us." Levi said.
"No problem, pal! You gotten everythin' good and ready?" Balthus asked.
"Yep. We're ready." Juna nodded
"All right. Let's used this stone and made our way to the woods." Hapi said as they used the teleportation stone to teleport them to the Eerie Forest.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Witch of the Quiet Forest)
"Dear me! Look at this place!" Constance exclaimed as they look around.
"Wow. It definitely rings magical right." Hapi look around.
"Oh hey, that path leads to the labyrinth, right?" Juna pointed.
"That's right." Levi nodded. "The other teleportation stone for Sutherland is on the right. Let's go." He said as they walk toward the path ahead of them and then make a left turn and then see the teleportation stone.
"There it is." Yuri pointed as they used the teleportation Stone and teleport themselves to the south of Eerie Woods.
"Whoa. It just keeps on going and going." Juna commend as they walk around.
"Well we are in a forest, it does not surprise me in the least." Hapi replied.
"It seems there is a teleportation stone further up ahead that leads outside." Altina replied
"I sense monsters nearby. Remember to be careful out here." Levi advised that he and others have notice the higher elements are active in the forest.
"Hey is it me or goes the forest look pretty freaky suddenly?" Balthus asked
"No. We can feel it. It must be the Higher Elements. They're active here." Alsin told him.
"Oh yeah, you're right." Venti nodded as he recalled. "Back in Saint-Gral Labyrinth, they suppress the higher elements.
"We'll just have to be as extra-cautius as always, then." Kurt nodded
"Don't forget that the monsters will behave differently too. So stay vigilant." Levi added as they walk the path ahead of them and notice some monsters roalming around and some Pokemon here as well.
"Eh? Why are Pokemon here?" Juna asked.
"Well Pokemon do make their homes anywhere in the world now-a-days. Even beyond the Pokemon regions." Levi told them. "I'm surprised some of them are here in the first." Levi said before seeing some Flabébés and Floettes with different rose color floating around along with Spritzee, Morelull, and Shiinotic.
"Some monsters find mind them hanging around as you can see." Yuri said as they notice some monsters are fine with it. "We should-" Suddenly a fruit splash on his face. "Mmgh!?"
"Yuri!?" Alsin exclaimed before turning and see a group of Impidimps laughing before ranging off. "Get back here you-!"
"It's fine, Alsin." Yuri wipe his face. "Those guys like to cause trouble."
"Speaking of trouble." Venti pointed as some monsters notice them. "Better ready for battle!"
"Our Pokemon should join too for experience." Kurt draw out his sword. "Let's go!" He said as the others charge for battle and then take them head-on before defeating them.
"This place is pretty magical. I wonder if Fodlan have some magical forest." Hapi wondered as they look around.
"Oh yes! I actually heard from His Majesty that he added some magical forest within Fodlan as well as some ruins for historical landscapes." Constance said.
"Yeah. After all, we want Fodlan to remember much of its history as lessons for future generations to learn. And hope none of them follow the same path as those wretched Agarthans." Yuri nodded.
"I'm sure many would agree." Kurt said before some parts, they reach a dead end. "Is it me or have we reach some deads end."
"Actually, we have." Venti nodded "I think we're trapped somewhere."
"Really? Oof, what are we suppose to do?" Juna asked
"Don't panicked." Levi look up around the surrounding. "Let's keep going, but remember to look around your surrounding." He said as they keep going.
"How about I can look from above?" Altina suggest
"No need. Look." Levi pointed to a stone ladder near a lanturn. "We need to climb up the ladder like we did in Bryonia Island."
"Ugh... We've still gotta deal with these?!" Juna complained as they approached it.
"It's what you might call a 'pain in the neck'... in more ways than one." Altina said.
"There's no denying it. Still, climbing a ladder is good exercise." Levi replied as he was the first to climb up.
"Yeah, can the boys go first?" Juna suggest.
"Huh? Why?" Balthus asked.
"Just do it, B." Hapi told him as she push him.
"Wah, hey! All right all right!" Balthus then climb up, then Yuri, Kurt, Venti, and Alsin while Juna, Altina, Constance and Hapi go next.
"Goodness, climbing a stone ladder is more difficult then I expected." Constance said.
"Try to be careful, Coco." Hapi told her until they reach the top. "Man, for a magical forest, it's place is quite twisted."
"Better be careful not get lost in here. It's kind the witches place lanturns to guide their way." Alsins said as they notice a treasure chest. "Hey is that a chest?" He asked as they approach it.
"It doesn't seem to belong to everyone. Let's take what's inside." Venti suggest and they took out 50 Sepiths for each elements. "Score!"
"Finder keepers as they say." Yuri said. "So tell me, so any of you wonder why there are treasure chest here?" He asked as they keep walking.
"I think I can answer that. Sometimes treasure crests appear at random because the Septium Veins provide them whatever they store before it vanishes until the next." Levi answered
"I read something along those lines as well. Think of it as a video game or an unknown benefactor or something." Venti said.
"Well, either way, good to know." Alsin said as they encounter monsters gather in a large spot where they deal with them until they clear a path.
"Oh look!' Juna pointed to the teleportation stone. "There's the teleportation stone Roselia told us about!" Juna stated
"We can use it to get outside, right?" Kurt asked
"According to Rose, yes." Levi answered
"Nearly three weeks have passed since the Great Twilight began... I wonder how much has changed..." Altina wondered
"I'm guessing a lot. Still, we should be on guard regardless." Venti advises.
"Right." Levi nodded. "Juna, if you would."
"Right." Juna nodded and brought the pendant and then the teleportation stone activated and they were teleported outside of the forest.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Behind the Lore)
The group then arrived from the destination spot.
"Wow. That's one heck of a transport." Hapi mused.
"Oh lala! I just thought of a great idea for transport!" Constance clapped her hands with joy. "Oh! I better get to work on it!"
"Oh boy..." Yuri sighed. "Anyway..." He look around. "Where are we? This is supposed to be Sutherland, right?"
"From the looks of it, we're in the cave. If we want to find out. Let us exit the cave." Levi said before he felt the breeze. "I can sense the wind coming from there."
"The exit must be there way, then. Let's go." Altina replied
The group begin to follow the wind where they sees a small exit which Balthis, Yuri, Alsin, Levi duck their heads before arriving at the forest area.
"Ah, this place is familiar. It's the Isthmia Great Forest. Wasn't expecting to be here." Levi mused
"There are so many Erynflowers here." Kurt said "This spot is where we first visited during our Special Ops mission."
"Oh yeah! During our first field exercises. We got ourselves into a pretty rough spot now that I think about it." Juna said.
"That was four months ago, now." Altina said.
"Yeah, a lot of time has passed." Venti added. "But we shouldn't be sentimental."
Altina nodded. "Right. Our tasks are to investigate the singularity and assess the overall situation in the area. We will need to use our time effectively."
"First things first. We need to get out of this forest." Kurt said. "Be on guard, and watch out for monsters."
Levi chuckled "Look at you all. I'm proud that you're staying focused on the task. But you're right. Let's go, shall we?" He asked as they took off to the path ahead of them until they encounter a special orbment charging station... and a hologram Moogle? "What the..."
"Hey is that a Moogle near the Orbment charging station?" Juna asked as they approached it.
"Hey Kupo! Welcome to Moogle's shop Kupo! Is there anything I can get you, Kupo?" The Moogle asked
"Actually, what the heck are you doing here near the Orbment charging station?" Altina asked
"Well to set up shop of course! It may be inconvenience, but lucky, we set up holograms in case if anyone comes here. We Moogles do make business anywhere near these special orbment stations here, Kupo."
"So you appear whenever there are the special orbment year?" Yuri asked.
"Yep! The Special Orbment Station here does more then heal your HP and Ep, but it can also enhance your weapons and synthesize quartz. But with me operating, it will be twice as fast and I can deliver you any of the available sundries, Kupo."
"I see, Unfortately, we're unable to shop right about now, but if we do, we'll be sure to stop by. You don't mind if we recharge right?" Levi asked
"Not at all, Kupo! It's free of charge." Moogle said as the group recharge their ARCUS units before head off.
"Goint through here with you guys makes me a little nostalgic." Juna said before she and her classmates look a little down.
'Oh you guys...' Levi thought as he look sad as they continued onward where they encounter a group of monsters minding their own business where they ignore them until some of them spotted them and they proceed to take them on.
As they dealt with the monsters, they continue moving onward until they spotted a larger floating monster with a giant eye, gigantic mouth with sharp teeth.
"Dear me! What kind of demonic beast is that?!" Constance asked.
"I don't think it's the sort of demonic beast we've seen. I think it's safe to say it's one of the monsters within Zemuria." Hapi mused. "Still, it definitely look tough compare to the monsters here."
"Indeed. It may be a wanted monster, but even then, it seems somewhat stranger then usual." Altina said.
"Well, whatever it is, we're no strangers to taking down something this big. Still, we can't just let it be. It might end up being a danger to civillains. We should take care of it before it start to cause harm." Juna stated.
"Even given our current situations, we can spare a moment to handle this."
"It makes me proud to hear you guys say that." Levi smiled with a nod. "I'm glad the field study you learn can be of great use. As Class VII Assistant, you can count on me. Just remember not to worry about defeat. If you lose, get back on your feet, retreat, and regroup. Learn from your battle and come up with a counterstrategy. And if you do well enough, I got some nice rewards from both the principal and the Imperial Family as a token of your efforts."
"Aww, really?" Venti's eye sparking before shook his head. "Hang on. We're not doing this for rewards."
"Well whether you're doing this out of goodwill or not. There's nothing wrong with doing a good deed to keep people safe from dangerous monsters such as this. Besides, the people will thank you and want to reward you for good something good."
"He's right." Yuri nodded. "Nothing wrong about doing the right thing. Even if you don't get anything out of it. Who knows. Sometimes the people will do you a favor."
"In any case, I'll spare no efforts to match or surpass the old Class VII." Kurt said.
"That's the spirit pal!" Balthus brought out his Vajra-Mushti. "Let's bust this monster's head!"
(BGM paused)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Robust One)
The group brought out their weapons and ran toward the monster who spotted them and summoned it's minions.
"Breakthough! Sludgehammer!" Juna activated her brave order as the Great Zan Su and Starer shoot eye laser toward them and they split up.
Altina used her craft: Detector craft on both monsters. "Oh! It's completely weak to Earth Magic and arts! Venti, Juna, your weapons are the most effective!"
"Now we got a plan!" Venti smirked as he begin to used his craft: "Think you can get away?" He asked as he unleash his arrow and used his craft: Stormeye 2 which gather the monsters together and slashed them as Altina jump and then slash with Claiomh Solais at the Great Zan Su.
The Starer rush toward them to slash them with it's hands, however, Balthus block and punch it's eye as it screech in agony before turn into purple mist as Constance cast Bolting on them with Hapi wave her arms and unleashing a wave of dark magic to stunned them. Great Zan Su unleash an ooz attack onto them as they roll out of the way and Yuri pull out a dagger and throw it at the eye, causing it to roar and tilt his back as Alsin ran up and slashed it. Juna switch to Gunner mode and fire bullets at it while Kurt unleash a slash combo on it as the monster recovered. It attempted to bite Kurt, but Venti shot its side to get it's attention as Levi jump into the air, spin to his left and throw his Glaive at the monster's back as Balthus follow up by readied his punch, unleash a flurry of punches and then spin and deliver a strong punch to knock it forward.
Great Zan Su rise into the air and unleash a laser beam toward them, but Venti charge his arrow and unleash it, aiming at the eye and knock it down as the sky where Alfin used his Ice-Make Magic to unleash several storm of ice sword to strike it, causing it to go on a Break State.
"It's guard is down! Come one!" Yuri yelled as they all ran up to the monster and unleash a burst attack until the monster exploded in a purple light.
(BGM ended)
(Resuming Behind the Lore)
"All right, we did it!" Juna cheered.
"Good work everyone! We show that monsters who's boss." Levi said as they all high five each other. "Okay, I added 2000 mira into our inventory. Use them wisely." He said before they continue onward.
As they move around, they spotted some treasure chests which contains U-materials, and Curia R quartz and put them in their inventory.
"Hey look, there some fish here." Juna said, looking at the lake. "We can take a short break right?"
"After that monster fight. I don't see why not." Levi said as Juna pull out their fishing rod, equip the bait and toss the hook into the waiter and waited for a few seconds until Juna got a bite.
"Oh, I got one!" Juna said as she begin to reel it in and then pull out of the water was a Cangiru. "Ooh! Pretty good one, huh?"
"Not bad, June." Hapi give a thumps up.
"June? Isn't that the name of the month?"
"Yeah, but it's also your nickname I came up for you. I also got one for Lee, K, Alti, and Venny here."
"Haha. Thanks for the nickname." Levi said as he scratch his cheek.
"Well we got the fish, we should keep moving." Hapi said as they move onward until they see the forest exit and arrived into West Sutherland Highway
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Twilight Green Passage)
"Phew, it feels good to be out of the forest." Juna said. "Is it just me, or were the monsters a lot stronger than last time?"
"It may be due to the disruption of the spirit veins." Kurt guessed.
"Perhaps, but it may be something else as well." Altina said. "I sense the higher elements at work. It feels like they've gathered at the main road."
"Really? Even there?!" Juna asked
"Yeah, I can sense them, too." Venti hummed.
"It's not just the forest. I can sense the higher elements are everywhere." Levi said."But unlike the forest. The higher elements around the highways are dim. The Great Twilight is at work here. Be on guard as we travel along the highway. Saint-Arkh shouldn't be far from here."
"Right!" Juna nodded
"Saint-Arkh- is east of here. Let's get going, shall we." Kurt said.
The group then begin to walk toward the road ahead of them and encountered some monsters who spotted them and some Pokemon minding their own business and some Pokemon are battling monsters.
A Wild Ducklett appeared to fight against some Hyprotoad and it's looking... until Venti aid it by shooting his arrow at the frug before defeating it.
"You okay there friend?" Venti asked.
"Ducklett!" The Ducklett nodded and then hug Venti's leg.
"Aww, you're so cute. You wanna be my friend?" Venti asked as the Ducklett nodded. "Then in you go!" Venti tap the Ducklett into his Pokeball as it shake three times until capture. "All right, a new friend!" He said before they move onward where they gather some reward from treasure chests and then spotted Saint-Arkh in the distance.
"Hey, look over there!" Juna pointed out at Saint-Arkh.
"Seems we've reached Saint-Arkh." Kurt said
"Yeah. However, we don't know what's going on there. So stay vigilant." Levi advised as they reached the entrance to Saint-Arkh.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Sneak Survey)
"So this is Saint-Arkh, hmm?" Yuri look around. "Lovely place."
"It's been a long time since we came by the residential district in Saint-Arkh." Kurt said.
"Looking at the place, it doesn't seem like too much has changed." Juna added.
"However, what we're seeing is the surface. We don't know what changed the last time we were here." Venti pointed out.
"Exactly." Levi nodded. "We need to be careful as we look around. So stay alert. Let's go to the place Fie brought me, Laura, Elliot and Rean. Lucky for us, it's nearby. Follow me." Levi said as they begin to walk toward the nearby building which is the Bracer Guild Brance where they entered and used one of the rooms with an orbal computer.
"All right, now that we're here. Let's begin discussion. Who can we contact?" Yuri asked.
"Well for starters. We got Kairi, Pablo, and Titanana who are here in Sutherland. We can contact them. We should also contact the Marquis while we're at it." Levi answered
"I'll contact them." Altina nodded as she turn to the Orbal Computer, turned it on, and then began to contact them. But no answers from them. "Hmm, they appear to be unavailable."
"Guess we have to find info around the streets, then." Alsin suggest. "We'll used this as a base."
"Let's get to work. What do we start with first?" Kurt asked.
"Our top goal is to find the singularity." Juna reminded.
"And to do that, we need to gather information on everything that's going on in Erebonia right now." Venti added.
Altina nodded. "Agreed. We should ensure we have a solid foothold here."
"Then let's begin with the café and the cathedral, I'm sure they'll have some good intel."
"We should also get in contact with Marquis Hyarms as well somehow." Kurt said.
"Good idea! He could be really helpful." Juna agreed. "He should be back home right?"
"It has been three weeks since he was in Heimdallr. We should visit the marquis's estate in the Noble District to be certain." Altina said.
"Right. We got three places to search. However, we need to be careful as we go through this city. After all, the Chancellor will be keeping an eye on our movement. And with the Intelligence Division as his eyes and ears everywhere, we need to discreet as we go."
"You're right. We should be careful and be discreet as possible." Kurt replied.
"Then let's get started." Altina said.
"Wow. I'm literally surprised at you guys." Levi blinked. "You guys not only working as a team, but you're also planning carefully. I'm so proud of you guys."
"Well we did learn something from you and the Old Class VII. So we have you to thank for it." Venti comment.
"Hehe. We're all happy to hear that." Levi smiled. "In any case. Looks like you don't need my help on this topic. Rean and I are definitely proud of how much you've grown. It brings back memories." Levi chuckled before he shook his head. "Wait this isn't the time for me to feel nostalgic. Anyway, let's get going. But remember to be discreet."
The group then left the building as they went first was the April Café & Inn, where they heard an argument between the worker behind the bar and the maid.
"C'mon, Corolla. Why're you mean-mugging me like this?"
"Just answer me, Nash. Is it true? Did you get a draft card from the military?"
"I did. Just the other day, in fact. Can't say I ever foresaw myself crawling through the trenches. But hey, at least there'll be some training at the camp beforehand."
The maid name Corolla slam her hands on the desk. "Wipe that smile off your face! Do you even understand the gravity of this situation?! You're going to war!"
"Corolla..." Nash sighed. "You can tell until you're blue in the face. It won't change the fact that the draft is inevitable. But I'd be lying if I said if felt real to me. It still doesn't."
"It seems many civilians are conscripted into the army." Yuri whispered to the group. "This means this National Mobilization Law the Blood and Iron Chancellor enacted caused many of the civilians to obey. Whether they like it or not."
"Yes." Kurt nodded in a whisper. "It put an unimaginable burden on every Erebonian citizen, all so that the government can wage total war."
"And all the way to putting them on the front line." Altina added in a whisper.
"Damn. That's really a low move." Hapi sighed as she whispered. "Come on. We should keep going." She said before they leave the cafe without drawing too much attention.
They headed off to the Noble District where they will go to Marqus Hyarm's mansion.
"Okay, the Marquis mansion is just up ahea-" Juna was gonna say until Levi notice something amiss.
"Wait." Levi called out to them to stop them as they see Imperial Defense Soldiers guarding the gate in the distance. "Those look like the Imperial Defense Force back in the captial."
"But the provincial army was on security before..." Kurt said.
"Then we better leave before they see us." Alsin advised as he walked away where the IDF soldiers couldn't see them. "Okay, this is bad. We can't contract the Marquis if those Imperial soldiers are there, right?"
"Unfortunately, yes. I guess we'll put it on hold for now while we contact the Marquis by phone. Let's go visit the Cathedral." Levi answered as they took off to the Cathedral Square and go inside the cathedral.
"So this is Saint-Arkt cathedral, huh?" Yuri asked.
"Yep. We came here on a previous Special Ops mission!" Juna recalled.
"Yes, back when we were asked to collect Erynflowers." Altina added
"Right, the lavender Vita uses as her current scent." Levi nodded. "Other than that. It also where it grow around the village."
"That's right. We received the request from the archbishop at the time." Kurt nodded
"We do want to speak with him but we need to be careful through." Venti pointed out.
"Indeed. There was that business with Gaius." Altina nodded "The Congregation for the Sacrament and the Congregation for Divine Worship are engaged in a 'turf war' I believe."
"I heard from Randy that it's the same as Crossbell too. We listened to Elliot play the violin here." Juna added "A live performance by an up-and-coming musician is really something special!"
"Yes. The experience is a precious memory for me." Altina smiled
"Look at you all grown up." Venti giggled.
"Did I hear you mention you've seen Elliot perform? As in Elliot Craig?" A voice asked as they turn to the voice and see a woman approaching them.
"Well, hello there, beautiful!" Bathus smirked.
"Balthus." Alsin gave him the stick eye.
"Wait... Fiona, is that you?" Levi asked.
"Oh, Levi! Long time no see." Fiona replied.
"Oh? You know her?" Hapi asked
"Yep. This is Elliot's older sister, Fiona." Levi nodded with a smile.
"Wait, for real!?" Venti asked
"Oh so that explains why her hair look familiar." Kurt said
"Oh, this must be the new Class VII I heard so much about. Allow me to introduce myself. I'm Fiona Craig, Elliot's older sister, and a pianist!"
"A pianist? So you're in the world of music, too?" Kurt asked.
"That's right, Elliot and I have been following our dreams of music, all thanks to our mother."
"I ought to have read her dossier back during the civil war, but I suppose my memory must have failed me when we met." Altina respond.
"My, I wasn't expecting Elliot to have such a beautiful sister." Venti smiled.
"I know right?" Balthus asked
"Anyways, were you eavesdropping on us?" Levi asked.
"Oh sorry, I wasn't trying to." Fiona replied. "I just heard about Elliot being mentioned when I walked in."
"You're right. We had the pleasure of listening to a previous performance here at the cathedral." Kurt said.
"It was quite amazing." Altina added.
Fiona giggled. "I'm so happy to hear you say that. To be honest, he still has a lot left to learn. But even so, I know in my heart that one day, he'll be the greatest performer in the Empire."
"Wow, she's very fond of her brother's dream." Juna muttered. "Oh I mean, I'm sure he'll become the best! Besides being cute, the aura around him is something else when he's playing."
"Cute? Is that really a compliment?" Kurt asked.
"It is Kurt." Venti said.
"I believe it is an objective truth. You are also on par with him, Kurt." Altina nodded
"Please don't involve me…" Kurt frown.
"Hehe. The new class VII has the spirit of the old one in many ways, right?" Levi asked.
Fiona giggled. "Indeed."
"So anyways, what brings you to Saint-Arkh?"
"Oh, I came here because I was hoping to ask the archbishop after our discussion regarding a performance. I have some relatives living in the area. I haven't really been able to see one of them, and the other, I can't even get in contact with."
"Ah, I think I know who you're talking about. You mean your father and Major Neithhardt."
"Yep. That's them..." Fiona sighed.
Then a sister came in through the door. "Flora! I've been waiting for you." Then the sister walked to her. "I heard something about you stopping by Dreknor Fortress, correct?"
"Yes, the checks are getting tight so we had to change plans for the moment."
"Is that so? Well, there's a lot going on over there right now, after all. I see. Welcome from your long journey. Let us show you to the Archbishop."
"Thank you for your help." Fiona turn to us. "I'll see you all next time. Take care of them, Levi."
"Will do. See you next time, Fiona." I replied. "Oh, wait Fiona!"
"Yes?"
"By any chance, did you heard news about Marquis Hyarm? We been trying to contact him?"
"Hmm..." Fiona place her hand on her cheel as she thinks. "I'm afraid I can't help you there. I heard that the Marquis is absent and the IDF soldiers are watching his estate in his place."
"I see. Thanks for the info. Take care okay."
"You too. Oh and if you see Elliot or his adorable girlfriend, tell them I said hi." Fiona giggled as headed to the Sister.
"Hmm… something is bothering me about her. Dreknor Fortress is a major base for the Imperial forces, right?" Juna asked
"That's right. it's northwest of here." Levi nodded "I have actually been there myself back then with Ouroboros three months back. The fortress is being commanded by one of the Imperial Generals. Olaf Craig, Fiona and Elliot's father. "
"Wait, Elliot and Fiona's dad is an Imperial General?!" Juna asked in surprise.
"Yeah, but I'll let Elliot tell you about it. Anyways, it seems we have a basic grasp of the situation."
"Yes… it's clear that preparations for the war with Calvard are underway." Kurt said.
"At this rate, it'll soon be unavoidable." Constance said. "However, I find it strange that many of the civilians seem to be okay with it. That gentleman back at the Inn. He seems too carefree and accepts being conspired into the army."
"I've notice something amiss too. While I was traveling, I've notice many of the people were way too happy about it. Espcually the Military Paraside back in Heimdallr."
"It's almost like that wanted the war. That doesn't seem normal." Hapi said.
"Agreed. It's almost like something is pulling the entire country toward war. As if some force is affecting people toward war." Yuri rub his chin.
"It's uncanny how rapidly this is progressing." Altina added.
"Do you think the Great Twilight has something to do with it?" Venti asked
"Most likely yes. Or rather, the curse." Levi nodded. "For now, let's head back to the temporary guild and discuss what to do next."
The group made their way back to the Luna Crest apartments and walk up the stairs toward the temporally room.
"Hm? Wait, everyone." Levi said to them. "I sense a presence on the other side of the room. But I'm not sure who."
"Wait wh-" "Shh!"Everyone told Juna to shush. "Sorry!" She whisper. "But who is it? You don't think it's someone from the government to find us, don't you?"
"I don't know but let me handle this." Levi said as he slightly open the door slowly and standing in the middle was a student from the branch campus and with him was a Misdreavus and Nienfoo. "Well, this is unexpected." He said as he opened the door as the student reveal to be Kairi.
(BGM ended)
"Ah! Levi!" Kairi (The boy)
"Kairi?! Is that you?" Kurt asked.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - A Fleeting Homecoming)
"Class VII! And... huh? Who are they?" Kairi asked
"They're our friends from Fodlan. This is Yuri, Balthis, Alsin, Constance and Hapi." Levi explain
"Oh nice to meet you guys! I thought I saw you in town, but I wasn't sure at first." Kairi replied. "I'm glad you're all okay! Good to see you, Class VII."
"Us too. We were hoping to contact you but you didn't answer." Juna said.
"Oh, my bad. Sorry, I had it on silent. I forgot to change it." Kairi chuckled. "So, Levi. I take it you're in charge of them?"
"Yep, I'm in charge of looking after Class VII in Rean's absence." Levi nodded. "So where are Pablo and Tatiana?"
"They're over in Parm to gather some intel right now."
"Sounds like you guys have been hard at work." Juna said. "But if that's the case, maybe we should go over there, too."
"Right. There's a chance they may have dug up something related to the signularity." Kurt added.
"Oh yeah. You have many friends there at Parm too, right Kurt? You wanna confirm their safety while also getting intel?" Venti asked
"I would like that, thanks."
"Then it settled." Levi smiled
"In that case, be careful out there, Class VII." Kairi said. "You too, Levi! Your friends too. May Aidios guide your way!"
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Sneak Survey)
"We will, Kairi. Feel free to use the temporary guide branch and its facilities as a base of operation." Levi said.
"You got it! Mistreavus, Nienfoo and I will take care of it." Kairi nodded.
"Mistreavus."
"Nienfoo!" Kairi's Pokemon nodded in respond as the group headed out the door.
"Okay, with that settled, we're going to Parm, right?" Balthus asked.
"Yeah. But something Fiona said still bothers me." Juna replied. "Her father is an Imperial General, right?"
"He is. I'm also worried about him. Unfortunately, Drekner Fortress is filled with Imperial Soldiers at the moment. If you want to check it out. I'll leave it to you guys." Levi asid
"All right, thanks."
"I'm worried about her father as well. Let's do a quick check before we head to Parm." Venti suggest it.
"I'm all in." Kurt nodded
"Same here." Altina added
"Then it settles. Let's check out Drekner Fortress first then head to Parm." Juna nodded
The group made their way toward the North Sutherland Highway by going through the Cathedral Square
"Okay, so this road leads to Dreknor Fortress right?" Juna asked
"Right. The 4th Armored Division is station here. We should- Hmm?" Levi turn his head to the road.
"Something up, Lee?" Hapi asked
"Yeah, I heard a noise from a distance. Let's check it out." Levi answered as they walk a little further to the road. "Wait, stop." He said as they took a small peak and see Imperial Soldiers with Soldats ready.
"Are they holding an impection?" Kurt asked.
"From the looks of it, yes. We can't afford to get closer, nor visit the fortress with them patrolling the area. We should head back." Yuri advised
"Yeah... Let's get back on the road to Palm." Juna sighed as they walk back to the Cathedral Square where they walk their way to the South Sutherland Highway.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Towards That Land.)
"All right, looks like we're finally on our way to Parm!" Juna declared
"Yep. Parm should be along this highway, just like before." Levi said. "Actually, now that I think about it. Should we have a look at where we had our field exercise camp?"
"I was thinking of that as well. Great minds think alike, right?"
"Well, it's an area off the highway." Altina pondered. "And security may be non-exsistent by now, even around the RMP detour rails."
"If there's a chance we could gather information on the singularity, it could be worth a try." Kurt said. "Besides, we are heading in that direction, I see no reason not investigate."
"Nice! Let's get going- Oh wait, how are we going to get by without the bikes and horses?" Juna asked.
"Walking to Parm is out of the question…" Altina frown.
"I'm glad you ask!" Levi smirked
"You thought of something, Levi?" Yuri asked
"Yep. We can use the horses."
"The horses? But how exactly?" Venti asked
"Like this." Levi then used his magic to create a portal where he enter it.
"A portal?" Kurt asked.
"Let's go inside, shall we?" Levi said as they go through the portal where they entered a ranch with a large plain.
(BGM paused)
(Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild ost - Stable)
"Whoa, where are we?" Hapi asked.
"Oh, we're back in the Mushroom Kingdom. There's a stable area near Toad Town where the caretakers takes cares of Yoshis, Pokemon and horses." Levi explained. "Speaking off." He turn his head and see a Toad with a pitchfork who spotted them.
"Oh hey Levi!" The Toad waving at them before approaching them. "What brings you here?"
"Do you remember what we discussed about the horses? Well now is the time."
"Ah, gotcha. In that case, I'll get them ready for you. How many do you need?"
"Aside from Altina, Kurt and Venti who knows how to ride, do any of you know how to ride horses?" Levi asked the others.
"Of course, I know how to ride horses. Alsin, Balthus, Constance and Hapi can." Yuri answered.
"Riding horses is my favorite things to do." Alsin said.
"Yeah, I know how to ride horses thanks to Kurt. Oh and those riding lessons back in campus help out too." Juna smiled. "But I can ride behind Kurt if he's okay."
"Of course, I don't mind at all." Kurt smiled
"I don't mind riding behind Venti if he's okay." Altina said
"Hehehe. Same here." Venti smiled.
"Okay, that means six or eight horses then." Levi said "I can place them in my Dimensional Home spell when we go into town or city."
"I can ride behind Yuri, Alsin or Balthus." Constance said.
"I'm a pro at riding horses but I can ride with Yuri-bird, Ally, or B." Hapi said.
"Okay, I'll get them ready in a gif." The Toad walk back into the stable.
"Do you think we should help him?" Juna asked.
"Do you know how to bring out a horse?" Levi asked
Juna sweatdrop. "Um... no."
"Hehe, then you can leave that to me and Levi since I am the captain of the Riding Club." Venti chuckled.
"It would be fast, yes. Hang on Nick!" Levi ran toward the stables with Levi.
A few minutes has passed and Levi, Venti and the Toad brought out the horses.
"Okay, I wish you all luck." Toad waved them off as they go into the portal.
(BGM ended)
(Resuming Toward that Land)
"So Levi. About the horses, are they the ones in the Branch Campus?" Venti asked.
"Yep." Levi nodded. "Ever since the day before the Great Twilight was brought forth and you guys were unconscious. I had the branch campus horses to the stables to the Mushroom Kingdom. It would be too dangerous if no one was there to take care of after what happened. With them well taken care of, we can use the horses anytime we want."
"Yay! Now we don't have to walk all the way to Parm!" Juna cheered
"You been working hard but thank you for all you done." Kurt smiled
Levi chuckled. "Thanks. In any event, let's ride, shall we?" He said as he mounted a brown horse, Kurt mounted a white horse with Juna behind him.
Venti mounted the black horse with Altina behind him. Yuri mounted up a light brown horse with Constance behind him and Balthus mounted up the brown horse with Hapi behind him. Alsin mounted on the tan horse, and the two remaining horses were placed into the Dimensional Home as Levi set up a timer to check on them as they began to ride.
"Ah it feels so nice to ride like this in the open again." Kurt said.
"Yeah..." Juna hummed. "It's supposed to be summer, right? But I don't feel any of it."
"It was summer back in Fodlan... But the tempersure since we arrived in Erebonia is awfully... normal." Alsin said.
"I'm guessing the Great Twilight somehow alters the temperature of the weather." Levi wondered before seeing the entrance of the ex-camp. "Ah, there's the entrance!"
"Let's check it out." Kurt said as they made their way toward the formal field camp entrance.
By the time they arrived.
(BGM paused)
"What?!" Kurt respond in surprised as they spotted a few Black Pleroma Grass within the field camp.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Signs of Gloom)
"What in the world?!" Levi said as he and the others dismount their horses and then begin to approach the camp.
"This is where you guys had your field study?" Hapi look around.
"Yes. However, those black-looking grass were never here before." Altina answered
Alsin approach one and then examine it. "Hmm... These must be the Black Pleroma Grass we heard so much from Emma and the others. It's rare to see black grass before."
"However, these are no ordinary grass. Pleroma Grass is supposedly magical grass that acts as the eyes and ears of the Sept-Terrion of Mirage. They have special properties." Levi explained "They're normally blue. But when Crossbell became part of the Empire, they turned red. But seeing it black... Could the Great Twilight cause a mutation?"
"Hmm, the more I heard about these Pleroma Grass, the more intrigued I am. Still, if seeing it in black is an omen..." Constance rubs her chin.
"Does that mean this is the singularity?" Altina asked.
"That's a good quest-" Juna looked around and then gasped. "Guys, look!" she yelled, interrupting Yuri as they turn to corner of the camp and spotted a pink-theme Panzer Soldot that had a Thors Branch Campus Emblem on its left shoulder.
"The hell? What is that?!" Balthus asked.
"That looks like one of those Panzer Soldots we heard from the Empire." Yuri said.
"And it's the color pink... Juna, isn't that your Soldot?" Levi asked. "How did it get here of all places?"
"Last time we saw it, it got swallowed up by the distortion in spacetime." Altina said.
"So the Soldats we had to leave behind, they ended up being teleported away and scattered around Erebonia?" Levi groaned. "Aww, man... Now that's another thing we have to find."
"Still, I don't think it's a coincidence it ended up somewhere we have a strong connection to." Kurt said.
"We'd better check, just to make sure." Juna stated
Levi suddenly felt a surge of power coming nearby where he turn and spotted the Black Pleroma Grass from the nearby pile released a small amount of black mist.
"Wait! Something is coming!" Levi shout to alert everyone.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Malicious Fiend)
Suddenly, a Magic Knight appeared from the Black Pleroma Grass.
"What the hell!?" Balthus yelled as they pulled out their weapons. "What is that?!"
"That's a Magic Knight! They're Orbal Golem from the Dark Ages of Erebonia! Just what we needed..." Levi complained. "All of you, get ready for battle now! This Magic Knight will be tough!"
"We can take it, Levi!" Juna stated
"Commencing attack!" Altina added
Giant Sword wielding Golem - Magic Knight Sigheim
Juna form a link with Altina, Kurt link with Venti, Yuri form a link with Levi, Constance form a link with Alsin and Hapi form a link with Balthus.
"Let's outsmart it! Cunning Bird!" Yuri activated his Brave Order which buff the group and give critical chances.
The Magic Knight swing its Giant sword at them and then stomp the ground but they all split up as Constance shoot several balls of light and launch them toward the Magic Knight as Hapi wave her arm and rain down blades of darkness on the Magic Knight as Levi ran up toward the Magic Knight and launch combo slashes before finish it off with a swirl clockwise slash to push it back. The Magic Knight let out a booming roar to push Levi back and then it unleash a gigantic slash projection toward Levi as he block with his Glaive but was push back. Yuri's Combat linkability Counterattack launched swift combo slash on the Magic Knight as Juna ran up toward the Magic Knight and launch combo swings on it's knees. The Magic Knight attempted to stomp on Juna but Claiomh Solais attack the head and knock it on it's butt as Kurt, Bathus and Alsin ran up toward it and launch multiple hacking/slashing on the Magic Knight.
The Magic Knight unleash a booming roar to knock them away as it got back on it's feet. It then punched the ground to create shockwaves and then jump into the air and create multiple shockwaves to push the group. Which also spook the horses nearby. Levi turn his head and cast a force field around them to prevent them from leaving and protect them. The Magic Knight then spin slash to unleash a powerful force onto the group. The group block the attack as Alsin freeze the floor as Hapi let out a sigh as a Demonic Beast appeared out of nowhere and jump to the Magic Knight and begin to maul it.
"What the hell?!" Juna yelled.
"Where did that come from?!" Kurt asked.
"Oh, that was me." Hapi said until the Magic Knight let a booming roar and knock it away, causing it to disappeared. "Aw man..."
The Magic Knight was about to get up, but Venti summon a barricade of wind blades and strike on the magic Knight as Kurt, Balthus, Alsin, Yuri, Levi, and Juna launch their hacking and slashing and bashing onto the magic Knight as Altina, Constance and Hapi launch their magic around the Magic Knight and exploded it, causing it to weakened as it feel into his knees.
"We did it…" Altina said.
"Juna, get to the Drakken!" Kurt requested.
"Right!" Juna nodded
The magic knight suddenly got up as it let out a roar.
"Tch. I should have expected it would heal itself." Levi muttered as the Magic Knight channel magic from it's hands and a magic circle appreaed and use gravity magic on them. "Mmgh?!"
"It can use magic?!" Venti gasped as it's about to swing at them.
(BGM ended)
"No!" Juna yelled. 'Damnmit... There's no way I'll make it in time! Kurt, Allie, Venti, Levi, Yuri, Balthis, Alsin, Hapi, Constance...!' Juna then recall flashbacks of how Rean and Valimar save their life before. 'No, I can't give up yet. He wouldn't and neither will I. Instructor Rean! Lend me your strength!'
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - With Our Own Hands!)
Suddenly, Juna's soldat respond with the eyes glow, got on it's feet and swooped in and knock the Magic Knight back.
"Wha-" Kurt eye widen.
"It move on it's own?" Venti asked as Levi then used his magic to break the gravity spell as they saw the soldot glow.
Juna pull out the little necklace which glowed brightly as much as her soldat did. "The pendulum Rose gave me is reacting! It's shining. Does that mean...? No never mind that!" Juna said as she approach them. "Everyone, you okay?"
"We're fine. As for how the Soldot move on it's own. We can talk about that later." Levi said. "Right now, we need to finish this Magic Knight!"
"Right! Let's do this, Drakkun 2!" Juna yelled as her Soldot respond by unleashing powerful swings on the Magic Knight's head and then strike at the core, causing it to roar and then explode into purple light.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Towards That Land)
The Black Pleroma Grass suddenly disappeared after the defeat of the Magic Knight.
"Phew, we defeated it for real this time." Kurt sighed. "Juna, what did you do back there?"
"It looked like you were able to connect with the Drakkhen somehow." Altina said.
"I don't know how to explain it. I have no idea how it happened either." Juna replied. "But it felt kind of like when we connected with Instructor Rean before."
"Hmm, could it be that Rean's link is still capable of reaching us?" Levi pondered.
"Oh?" Altina blinked
"It did seem similar, now that you mention it." Kurt said.
"Um, I'm confused. What do you mean, "link" pal?" Balthus asked.
"It's complicated. But basically, Rean's power is somehow managed to connect us and the soldots apparently respond to protect us." Levi explain.
"It does sound complicated. But it's basically some sort of power or magic in a sense. Or the combat links?" Hapi asked
"Maybe. But I should contact Rose and give her the heads up." Levi pull out his ARCUS Alpha and called for Roselia before putting the call on loudspeaker. "Hey Rose? We found a patch of Black Pleroma Gass that was at an empty ex-field camp."
"Hmm...Black Pleroma Grass, you say?" Roselia responded. "So it's made an appearance in Sutherland, too."
"You mean they appear elsewhere?" Constance asked.
"Indeed. They discovered the grass while searching for the singularity. There's no doubt it has some connection to the Great Twilight. But that is not the singularity. The pendulum I gave you would be reacting otherwise."
Juna sighed. "Aw man, I almost got my hopes up for a minute."
"The Magic Knight seems to have mainly reacted to the Drakkhen, too." Altina said.
"Hm, I can only speculate on that point." Roselia replied. "This could mean that the connections you formed with the Ashen Knight in the Gral is still active."
"My connection... with Valimar?" Juna asked.
"Really? Even now?" Kurt added
"As a 'secondary contractor', you were able to supply it with mana." Roselia answered. "That, combined with your own strong will, allowed you to control it."
"I guess this is one more thing we have to thank Instructor Rean for." Kurt said.
"Too true." Levi sighed. "You really are one of a kind, Rean."
"Even with him MIA, it still feels like he's right here bailing us out." Venti smiled.
"If you could learn to control it, this could be a valuable asset." Altina said.
"That can be applied to the rest of us as well since we're able to pilot soldats too." Levi then looked at Altina. "Oh, wait, I forgot that you don't have one yet, sorry."
"It is okay, I can use my power for a different purpose." Altina said, bringing out Claiomh Solais. "Claiomh Solais! Black Shade!"
Altina's combat shell then flew to Juna's soldat and cast a barrier before both vanished away.
"Woah! Where did it go?" Juna asked.
"I'm using Claiomh Solias's stealth mode to hide it from view." Altina answered. "We should be able to use the auto-thrusters to bring it to us if the need ever arises."
"Auto-thrust... what?" Balthus asked.
"In other words, not only she can hide it, but also summon it for them to use when the situations call for it." Yuri clarified.
"I had no idea you could do that." Kurt said. "But you're right, it could prove useful."
"And here I thought I could use my magic and store it in my inventory. Thanks for that Altina." Levi smiled
"Thanks, Allie!" Juna cheered
"Hehe, I guess today is your lucky day." Roselia spoke. "Feel free to contact me if anything else happens. Until then." "Now how do I hang up? Is it this button here?" She mumbled to herself and then hang up.
"Well, things took an unexpected turn but at least we got something out of this." Levi said.
"Totally!" Juna cheered
"Right. It's good to know we have a Panzer Soldat at our disposal, and this new strain of Pleroma Grass could be a valuable lead." Kurt added
"You're right." Venti nodded. "Once we got up our breath, let's make our way back to Parm."
Altina nodded. "Sounds good."
"Okay, let's go calm down the horses. After that fight. It must have spook them." Levi said as they attend to the horses.
Unknown to them, there is someone watching them from the distance which Venti and Levi notice.
'Hmm?' They both turn and see no one is there. 'What was that?' They wondered before returning their attention back to the horses.
After catching the break, they mount up and then begin to ride their way to palm. After they left, someone appeared.
"Hoho! Quite an interesting sight." Said a man with a floating hover pot. "It's been two years since I first saw one of the original Class VII members. The New Class VII may be pale in comparison, but they can interesting enough to study. More and less." The figure turns to the drone next to him. "Espeuclaly something from the Divine Knights."
Back to Class VII and their friends...
The group ride their way toward the bridge then the New Class VII and Levi spotted the familiar fight.
"What's up, you guys?" Alsin asked, stopping his horse with the others.
"Sorry, about nearly four months ago, there was a situation where the train was derailed by a boulder." Kurt said
"Yeah, wonder what was that all about." Juna wondered.
"There's a strong possibility it was perpetrated by Ouroboros, through their motives are unclear." Atlina answered
"It wouldn't surprise me if they wanted to stop us if that was the case." Levi sighed. "Well, at any rate, we should keep going." He said as they continue riding until they spotted a strange silver treasure chest. "Huh?" Levi stopped his horse. "That treasure chest..."
"It doesn't seem to be any ordinary treasure chest." Yuri said.
"You're right. This treasure chest contains a trial run. It would be more accurate to say they're Trial Chest. However, it doesn't open to anyone. Only certain figures can open them and begin their trial. If they manage to complete their trial, they'll receive a new power."
"Whoa, sounds pretty handy!" Balthus said.
"But also sounds risky. But how do we know the person we have with us are the one?" Alsin asked.
"From what I remember last time. It's a gut feeling. Are you guys interested?" Levi turn to the New Class VII. "Be warn though, they contain some powerful monsters."
"It does sound risky. But I think we can take it." Juna said as she and Kurt dismount.
"All right. Let's find out who this crest is for." Levi said as the group dismount and approach the chest.
"Huh..." Kurt said. "I can feel... it's calling to me."
"You too?" Juna asked.
"I don't feel anything." Venti said.
"Or me." Altina admit.
"Or me." Levi said.
"Or me." Yuri said. "You guys?"
"Nope." Balthus said.
"Nuh uh." Alsin shook his head.
"No. I can't feel anything." Constance said.
"Same. Guess is June and K." Hapi said. "You guys ready?"
Juna and Kurt look at each other and nodded as they opened the crest and suddenly it sucked them in.
"What the heck?!" Alsin yelled.
(BGM paused)
With Kurt and Juna...
"Ugh... What the heck?" Juna groaned as she got up along with Kurt. "What the heck happened just now?"
"I think we're inside the crest." Kurt answered before seeing a Fat Pom. "Ah! That's a large Pom!"
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Erosion of Madness)
"Whoa! And it looks strong! Kurt!" Juna yelled
"Right!" Kurt and Juna draw their weapons and form combat links and the Fat Pom charges toward the duo as they block the Fat Pom Attack and push it back.
Juna ran up toward the Fat Pom and swung her Gunbreakers before kicking its face as Kurt's launch combo slashed onto it. The Fat Pom head-butted Kurt and suck his HP as Juna used her craft: Cross Break 2 on the Fat Pom as Kurt recovered, ran toward it and slashed it.
The Fat Pom move swiftly around them and then begin to headbutt Juna as Kurt's Combat likability Vengeance activated and slash it. The Fat Pom move swiftly toward the dup to attack them with another headbutt but Kurt dodge it and counterattacks as Juna launch some powerful swings before kicking it's face upward. Jump up and then knock it back on the ground as Kurt use his craft: Rain Slash 2 with Juna following up with Cross Break 2, causing it to go on Break State.
"It's on break! Come on!" Juna said as she and Kurt ran up and let out an Rush attack before it turn into purple mist completely.
(BGM ended)
"We did it!" Kurt said.
"Yeah!" Juna cheered as she high five Kurt, when the whole space turn white.
(Resuming Toward that Land)
"Are you two all right?" Levi asked as Juna and Kurt return as the Trial Chest disappeared.
"Yeah! We did it." Juna said before she notice a chance. "Huh? Whoa... I feel... something within me has change."
"Strange. I don't feel anything. But I did notice some new chances." Kurt said
"Yeah. That means you pass the trial run. But what was the power you gain?" Levi asked.
"Hmm..." Juna hummed as she fold her arms and think. "Oh!" She pull out her ARCUS unit and look. "Aha! It's my brave order! It upgraded a bit!"
"Your Brave Order?" Altina asked.
"So does that mean the trial chests can upgrade our brave order?" Venti asked.
"If so, then that would explain it. Let's make a note of this and continue heading on." Levi said.
"Right." Kurt said as they made a mental note and got back on their horses and ride away.
Boy that was a little longer then expected. But Now things gotten interesting with the Ashen Wolves helping out now. Next up is Parm!