Dateline, August 18th, 1206 Friday.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Now, Things to do)
"Okay, Rose! We're ready to get going!" Juna declared
"Very well, be careful." Roselia replied. "There's a teleportation stone in Lamare that can bring you back here when you're finished. Go north from the woods, and the pendulum should guide you the rest of the way. I have your Panzer Soldats standing by, so feel free to take them with you."
"There's on doubt they'll come in handy." Levi said. "I wonder when I'll be able to see mine again..."
"Ash, your hometown is in Lamare, right?" Kurt reminded.
"Ooh, that's right." Sara agreed. "Raquel, the entertainment city. I wonder how it's doing?"
"Yeah, especially after what happened before." Juna trailed off
"Ooh, your hometown is the entertaining city? Damn, why didn't we go there?" Balthus complained
"Oh shut up you. It's a good thing we aren't going there." Alsin sighed.
"Eh, it might be fun to see the place again." Ash said. "But don't worry, I've got a disguise ready. No one'll recognize me."
"Let's do hope that is the case." Venti said.
"If you guys are ready, then let's head out to the woods, yeah?" Shez asked.
Fie nodded. "Yeah, let's get going."
"In that case, good luck all of you. We'll be back to help out as soon as we can." Yuri said as Constance and Hapi combine their magic and teleported themselves out of there, taking the Ashen Wolves to Fodlan.
(BGM ended)
And so the group made their way toward to the Teleportation Stone and return to the Eerie Forest.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Witch of the Quiet Forest)
"Now, to reach Legram, we need to head to the north part of the forest, correct?" Kazuha asked.
"Yeah. We'll just take the left turn ahead and then it's a straight shot north." Elliot nodded.
"Everyone going to Heimdallr will need to take a different route." Fie added
"We'll be splitting up soon. Let's all keep in touch." Sara stated
"Right." Shez agreed as they turn left and found the teleportation stone with two soldots standing near it. "And there's our stop."
Levi nodded. "Once we use this teleportation stone, we'll have a long road to come back."
"So how do we teleport these things? With magic right?" Ash asked.
"Yep. A little different compared to Palutena's power, right?" Juna asked
"According to Emma's grandmother, they derive power from Valimar, so it poses no problem." Kurt added "Regardless, we still have a fair bit of walking before we're out of the woods."
"Right." Levi nodded before turning to Sara, Elliot, Fie, and Annette. "You guys are heading off to Heimdallr, right? You better be careful Heimdallr is on high alert."
"Hehe. Don't worry about us Levi. We're no rookies. Which you already knew." Elliot smiled.
"Same. Make sure you all stay safe too. There's no telling what's up ahead too." Annette nodded.
"Don't worry, we will." Ares nodded.
"In any case, we better get going." Ryker said.
"Alright then, Levi, take care of them." Sara replied.
"Will do." Levi responded. "Okay, class, and friends, let's hit the road."
"See you later!" Juna waved to Sara, Fie, Elliot, and Annette as they used the teleportation stone to arrive at the new part of the area in the forest with springs and a waterfall.
"Well look a that." Ryker rub his chin. "Springs and waterfalls... Ah, what a fine place to take a nap."
"As well as going on a date." Ares added
"Man. It's just one thing after the other of witnessin' natures beauty." Shez said.
"Indeed. That is what I love about traveling. To explore the unknown, and witness the beauty that nature holds." Kazuha smiled.
"Anyway, if you're done gawkin', let's keep moving already." Ash advised.
"Hehe, right." Kazuha chuckled as they continue onward crossing the bridge where there are Weed Beetles and Dog Mummys minding their own business with a few Fairy Pokemon minding their own business.
They pass a road with had two trees between them, go through them and then arrive at a large area where they can see a waterful theme area as they go on.
"Wow, this is just beautiful." Juna said in awe as they look around.
"You might even describe it as 'magical'." Altina nodded
"Hehe, the beauty of Mother Nature." Venti smiled
"Indeed." Kazuha nodded as they see water Pokemon. "And there are even water Pokemon relaxing here."
"Hehe. I can wonder how Viridi will like this place." Levi chuckled.
"Which I love very much!" Viridi telepaths to him, causing him to sweatdrop.
They came across a large area where a giant spider monster was blocking their path as they charge in and take it down.
"For a nature resort, it has some infestations of monsters." Ragna said.
"At least we can take care of them. The Pokemon seem more happy here." Levi said.
"Yet there no different to any other monsters if provoked like wild animals." Jin said as they defeated some more monsters on the way and then took the next opening path that led them to the teleportation stone.
"That's the teleportation stone for Lamare." Juna said.
"That is quite far from here." Altina stated
"Well, at least teleportation just make things shorter to kill time." Shez said. "I'm still learning a bit more on teleportation magic on a long distance."
"All right. Let's hit the road." Ragna said as Juna pulled out the pendant and activated the teleportation stone that took them and the soldots to their next destination."
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Towards That Land)
The party arrived at a scenery with greenery with several small rocks and hills.
"Wow. Look at this place." Kazuha mused. "Despite being tainted by the curse... the beauty of it never faded away."
"But we are in Lamire, right?" Shez asked. "All I see are hills around here."
"I don't think we even come across anything like this during our field study either." Kurt admit.
"This is southeast Lamare territory." Ash added. "What you're lookin' at here are the Avon Hills. Pretty sure this place is just past the canyon east of Raquel."
"I been here before actually. Although I don't think I discovered this place." Levi said. "But in any case, the soldats made it with us. Altina?"
Altina nodded. "Black Shade!"
Claiomh Solais appeared and then used the Blade Shade to make the soldats then vanished from sight, but underneath a stealth barrier.
"Sheesh, I should be used to this magic stuff already but damn." Ash said.
"Oh trust me. There'a a lot more going on." Shez said. "The who supernatural things is just part of daily life nowadays."
"Right. So at the moment, it's possible we can enter Raquel, but I'm rather curious about whether we'll find another Spirit Shrine. Another one of our soldats, or with a bit of luck, where the other students are, and Musse's whereabouts."
"Well, if it were up to me, we'd head right over to Raquel. But we should probably drop by Milsante first. It's just east after we get past all these hills." Ash suggested
"Milsante?" Ragna repeated.
"From what I've heard, it's a town that the railway line passes through." Kurt said. "Though, I've never been there myself."
"Yeah. You can barely call it a town, really." Ash replied. "But it brings in all kinds of tourists. It's set up right next to a lake and everything. We might get some intel on Grenville and Leeves while we're at it. They're on the other side of Milsante."
"Leeves..." Kazuha fold his arm. "That's where the branch campus is..."
"Yeah. I hope Leeves is okay after all that happened. Master Hand already remove the portal there because of the Great Twilight." Levi sighed. "We'll need to find out what's going on over there while we're at it."
"Agreed." Kurt nodded. "I'm starting to get a grasp on the geography."
"It was our home away from home..." Juna sadden. "Now I'm kinda worried about how everyone's doing over there."
"In any case, it seems wise for us to stop off at Milsante before heading anywhere else." Altina said.
"And judging from this. I say it's a long way. So time to bring out the horses." Levi snap his finger and open an Interdimensional Portal as he went in and then brought out several horses. "Okay, I brought them out."
"Okay, I'll be riding with you Kurt." Juna said.
"I'll be riding with Venti." Altina said.
"I'll ride alone. Brother?" Jin asked
"Same." Ragna answered
"Wanna ride with me, Babe?" Shez asked.
"It will be my pleasure." Kazuha smiled.
"Same to you babe?" Ryker asked.
"Yeah, of course!" Ares nodded as Levi, Kurt, Ash, Venti, Jin, Ragna, Ryker, and Shez each picked their horse and mounted on them, as Kurt, Venti, Shez, and Ryker helped their partners up.
"Man, I'm glad we have the horses here. I guess that's another good thing with teleportation magic or whateve. Now let's ride." Ash smirked. "Yah!" And then he was the first to gallop and then begin to gallop and follow him.
The group begin to ride pass some monsters and some Pokemon who made their home here, as they ride the way, they see more of the beautiful landscape of Avon Hills.
"Wow! What a view!" Juna complimented
"And riding our horses here, it's a very relaxing feeling." Shez smiled.
"Seriously. I'd heard about Avon rock formations, but these are just breathtaking." Kurt nodded
"The topography here is reminiscent of Nord Highlands." Altina added
"It truly does, doesn't it?" Levi smiled.
"Ah, if only we can ride like this in peace." Kazuha smiled as they see more of the landscape. "And looks like we encounter more view of the land."
"The scenery isn't bad I suppose. Of course, the matter the problem of how vast these land are." Jin said.
"No kidding. At least we brought some horses to ride." Ragna nodded
"Spekaing of ride, Sullivan, didn't you bring some Orbal Bikes too?" Ash asked.
"About that? When I return to the campus, the Bikes were already gone. Someone must have took them." Levi answered
"Tch. It better not be some thieves." Ash muttered.
As they rode along the way, they spotted a silver treasure chest in the distance.
"Look. Another trial chest." Kurt said as they stopped nearby it.
"Trail Chest?" Ash asked.
"Basically a little challenge to receive a power-up on our Brave Orders. Rean and Valimar's power has weakened those who are second contractors." Levi explained.
"I can feel the presence inside it." Kurt said.
"Same. Does that mean me and Kurt can go in?" Altina asked.
"Well... It doesn't look like we can feel it. So I guess the trial is with you guys." Venti said.
"Okay, guess we'll take a small break here and defeat the Trial Chest here." Kurt said as he dismounted as Altina hopped off Venti's horse as they approached the chest, opened it and got pulled in.
"The hell!?" Ash yelled.
(BGM paused)
With Kurt and Altina...
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Erosion of Madness)
Altina and Kurt soon confront themselves with a Rolling Thunder.
"It's one of those monsters from earlier." Kurt pull out his sword.
"Yes. But this one is larger compared to them." Altina nodded as Claiomh Solais appeared. "Ready, Kurt?"
"Ready!" Kurt nodded and form a combat link with Altina.
The Rolling Thunder curl into a ball and starting toward Kurt as he block the attack and push it back. Then it begin to launch a sweep attack on him, but Kurt blocked and countered by launching his swipe at it as Altina scanned it and discovered it's weakness to fire and Mirage. Altina then cast Silver Thorn onto it and struck a blow. Then Rolling Thunder bounced toward Altina in the form of a drill as Claiomh Solais form a barrier to bounce it off and then she ran toward it and kicked it's guts to push it back. Then Slaiomh Solais fires a laser at it as Kurt follows up by launching twin slashes. Kurt then unleashed a flurry of slashes onto it as Rolling Thunder begin to slash on Kurt's cheek, causing a small cut on him.
Kurt bounced the monster off as Rolling Thunder bounced toward Kurt and clashed with him until Kurt dodged and counterattacked, dealing massive damage thanks to his Master Quart. Then Altina used her craft: Fragarach 2 to slam it on the ground and Kurt dealt the finishing blow by impaling it's back, causing it to disappear.
The scene then turn white.
(BGM ended)
Back to the others...
(Resuming Towards That Land)
Kurt and Altina soon return to the others as the Trial Chest disappears.
"Oh, you're back." Ash said. "So what happened?"
"It was just one monster. We defeat it easily." Altina answered
"Indeed. It resembles those other monsters who use their tail to bounce. But munch larger." Kurt nodded
"Wait, Kurt. Is that a cut on your cheek?" Juna hops off Kurt's Horse and approaches him.
"Oh." Kurt touches his cheek. "I didn't notice."
"Hmm... It doesn't seem to be too deep. Still, we should get it disinfectant. Hang on. I got the kit with me." Juna pull out the First-Aid kit and then got a cotton ball, put alcohol on it, tap Kurt's cheek, and gave him a Tear Balm for him to drink and the cut slowly faded away. "Okay, there we go."
"Thank you Juna. I can assume it's a return for your arm yesterday?" Kurt asked with a smile.
"Nah. Well. Maybe." Juna giggled.
'Love siiigh~' Venti thought.
"Are you two gonna kiss now?" Ask asked with a grin, causing the two to blush red.
"Ash!" Both Juna and Kurt yelled at him.
"Now, now, don't tease them." Levi chuckled. "So which one of you got the new and improved brave order?"
"Hmm... I think it's me. I certainly felt something." Kurt said.
"I think so too. Well in any case. We should get going." Altina said as Venti help her hop on his horse as Kurt mounted on his and helped Juna up, feeling embarrassed still.
"Okay then. Let's be off." Kurt said. "Hyah!" He then taps his horse to ride and they begin to follow him.
'Hehe. I think they'll make a great couple.' Levi thought with a smile on his cheek. 'Speaking of couples... I wonder if I'll find one...'
"We keep goin' this way, we'll come out onto a highway." Ash said
"Oh, really?" Juna asked
"Makes you realize just how vast Erebonia truly is." Kurt nodded
"Seriously. It has many towns, cities, places more than I can count on." Venti nodded
"If you think Erebonia is vast, think of Fodlan, the Mushroom Kingdom, or any other countries." Shez said.
"Indeed. Though where I'm from. It's not nearly as vast as the other neighboring nations." Kazuha said.
"Speaking off, I heard business with Inazuma is going well lately in the Mushroom Kingdom." Jin said.
"Indeed. More trade and my countryman visit the Mushroom Kingdom. Many people from the Mushroom Kingdom wonder what Inazuma looks like. Some already travel to Inazuma. Hmm... I wonder if I should discuss with Princess Peach about an Inazuma district in Toad Town." Kazuha wondered.
"That would be nice to see your home culture. It would make you feel at home." Shez said.
"I already have a home. Traveling and being with you Shez. So long as we don't break up."
"I doubt that will happen." Shez said as they both chuckled as they spotted a railway in the distance.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost Twilight Green Passage)
"There's a railway road here?" Juna asked
"Specifically the Transcontinental Railroad, I believe." Altina answered
"We should be able to reach the town if we pass the tracks." Levi pointed out as they continued riding along the pass as they passed some monsters along the way.
They ride underneath the railway and then soon reach the highway.
"And here's the highway." Venti said.
"Things are more quickly with the bikes or horses." Altina said.
"I'm sure you can ride Pokemon... although it's questionable to which." Kazuha said.
"Milsante's should be around here. Let's head right, shall we?" Levi smiled
The party ride towards the right of the highway until they see the entrance to the Town.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Wind Across the Water)
The group arrived at the entrance as they dismounted and Levi took the horses back into Interdimensional Home.
"Wow! I can see the lake!" Juna said.
"And here I thought the scenery in Avon Hill was breathtaking." Kazuha said in awe.
"It's certainly quite the spectacle." Kurt added. "That rocky hill is especially impressive."
"It really draws you in." Altina nodded
"Heh. You know, it really is a peaceful place... something feeling nostalgic." Ragna said with a smile.
"Heh... I happen to agree." Jin nodded in agreement.
"Honestly though... I'm in a debate on which places are more beautiful." Venti giggled "There are so many that I can't even choose."
"Well, the town is pretty podunk, all things considered." Ash said. "Let's ask around, and if we don't hear anything, we can head to Raquel."
"Right. Let's go ask around." Levi nodded until he felt something. 'Hm?'
'What was that?' Venti wondered.
"Did you feel it too?" Kazuha whispered to them.
"Looks like it. We should keep our guard up." Levi nodded as they began to walk around in Diana's general store.
As they enter, they can see it's not just a grocery store, but also an Orbal factory.
"Oh, look at that. Two stores in one building." Ares said.
"It certainly got a nice cozy atmosphere, doesn't it. We should bring some souvenirs for everyone back home." Ryker suggests.
"Sounds like a plan." Ares nodded in agreement with his husband. "So what should we do next."
"We should speak to the owner." Altina suggested.
"So where is the owner?" Venti asked. "Let's ask one of the staff here." He suggests as they approach the counter to the general goods.
"Welcome to Diana's!" The little girl who's like 10 or something years old.
"Check it out. They've got a kid working here. You even know how to count yet?" Ash grinned. "Remember eight comes after seven."
"Hey! I resent that!" She pouted. "I'll have you know I'm a whiz behind the cash register! I've been coming to this store since I was little. And I know where everything is."
"Sorry about my friend here. He likes to mess with people." Shez said. "By any chance, do you know where the owner is?"
"You're looking for Miss Diana? She's upstairs."
"Thanks!" Shez smiled.
"Oh look!" Juna pointed. "They got some Mushrooms from the Mushroom Kingdom, Fire Flower, Ice Flower."
"That's right! We got some stocks from the Mushroom Kingdom! It's all thanks to Miss Diana!"
"She's the owner of the store, right? The one name after all?" Ares asked
"That's right! This used to be an empty house, but she renovated it and made it into a general store. She visited the Mushroom Kingdom about a year ago and made a connection for trading goods. It's made our lives easier, and now tourists come here to stop. It's all thanks to Diana!"
"Sounds like she really helps the community." Jin said. "The people here must rely on her."
"You betcha they do! If you're ever in a mickle, you should totally ask Diana for advice!"
"In that case, we'll take you up on that." Levi said. "Spaking off, how about we get some of those Mushrooms, Fire Flower and Ice Flower to do. Like about... ten for each?"
"Sure! That'll be 2440 Mira! We also accept Mushroom Kingdom Coins and other currency thanks to the International currency exchange."
"Here you go then." Levi handed over the mount as the cashier take it, put it in the cash register and gave them the items they needed and put them in their inventory.
They walked up the stairs to see a small hallway with a single door that led to the room,
Kazuha knock on the door. "Excuse me. Miss Diana, can we come in?"
"Oh? Company? Please come in." She greeted as the group entered and saw her by the shelf with a photo frame and a Victrola. "How can I help you?"
"Wow, she's gorgeous!" Juna whisper
"Excuse us, we were wondering if it was possible to reach Grenville at the moment." Levi explained. "Either by on foot or by train."
"Grenville? Are you sightseeing?" Diana responded. "I hate to say this, but I would recommend you avoid that town, given the current climate. Or perhaps, you have friends there?"
"Yes, that's right." Kurt answered. "Er, why do you say we should avoid it?"
"They've established a sizable conscription office in Grenville. Their recruitment efforts have started to encompass the neighboring areas. You're bound to face tightened security and guaranteed inspections if you head that way."
"Hmm... I can see why you would recommend we stay away from that place then." Ryker sighed.
"And based on what Margarita told us, being spotted by them would be trouble for us." Levi added in a whisper. "Not to mention it doesn't sound like the singularity would be there either. And Grevnille is outside the Lamare region."
"Well, I don't think you'll have any issue getting to the capital by train. Hmm, are some of you students?" Diana asked. "I ask because there's a student from out that way who's been helping us out at the lakeside White Birch Inn."
"A student from Grenville..." Levi pondered. "...Oh yeah. There is someone we know from over there."
"I see. Then why not pay the Inn a visit?"
"We'll do that. Thanks for the info."
She smiled. "You're very welcome. You all seem wrapped up in something substantial, so take care out there."
"Guess she caught onto us, huh?" Ragna whisper
"We best get out of here then. If she would dare call the authority, we'll or I know what to do." Jin said.
"I don't think she'll do that if the student we know told her the circumstances." Levi whispered as they left the room and then exited the store.
Then they begin to head to the Inn as they go down a small hill road and spot the Inn. Before they can go in go up the stairs to the roof patio.
"Woo! Just look at that!" Juna said in awe as they saw Lake Gala. "The view from here's too die for!"
"Holy crap... It's completely serene." Ryker said in awe.
"It really does take your breath away." Kurt nodded
"Hehe. Why don't we all take a picture together with our ARCUS?" Levi suggested.
"Good idea." Shez nodded and pull out his ARCUS. "Okay, How do you take photos with these things."
"Hehe. Here." Kazuha said as he help him and then the two of them began to take selfies together as Ares and Ryker did the same while the others took pictures of themselves and some did group selfies but also taken a picture of Lake Gala.
"Oh look! You can see a Milotic down there!" Venti pointed as they saw a Milotic rising up from the water and swimming around.
"You know. This would make a perfect Photo to send to Rex." Kurt said.
"True. Might as well send it to him." Levi nodded. "And I'll ask him this time. If he dodges the question. Rean will know how to handle him." He said as He take the picture of Lake Gala. "Okay, got it." He said, then called for Rex. "Yo, Rex. I got a new photo for you to look at."
"Oh yeah? Great! Let me take a peek at the goods." Rex said as Levi sent him the photo. "Whoa! Now that is what I call a work of art! Here's a little somethin' for your trouble." He said, sending a picture of Fiona.
"A picture of Fiona this time?" Levi asked. "When did you- Actually Hold that off. How did you get the photo of Eli-"
"Whoop, sorry Levi. I have work on my end. Cya buddy!" He said as he hang up."
Levi gave a deadpan look. "Welp. His funeral. I might as well tell Elliot."
The group begins to head downstairs and then go into the Inn. As they got inside, they spotted a familiar student with an apron on his uniform with a Starly on his shoulder.
"And there he is." Levi commented.
"Sidney!" Kurt called.
"Hey Sidney!" Venti also called out.
That got his and the store owner's attention.
"Friends of yours?" The owner asked.
"Oh, no way!" Sidney responded. "Levi? Kurt? Venti? And Ash?! Juna and Altina, too! You guys are all okay! Ah, I can't believe it."
"Well here we are, so you gotta believe." Levi wink. "Why don't we settle down? There is much to discuss."
"Yeah! Hang on, let me get you some drinks!" Sidney said.
"Allow me." The owner said as Sidney nodded and they went to the table where they all sat down and the party got themselves some free hot cocoa drinks. "Nice to meet you kids. I'm Sidney's uncle Alban. This is on the house. Enjoy yourselves."
"Thanks." Ragna nodded as he went to the counter.
"Your uncle seems real nice." Kurt said.
"Yeah, when the others and I arrived, he just let me stay. He didn't even ask me any questions." Sidney replied. "I've been collecting information on the surrounding area while helping out part-time."
"Oh yeah. Who are the others that are here?" Ash asked.
"There's Maya, Gustaf, Sandy, and Leonora. They made it here with me."
"Really? So where did they do?" Venti asked
"They left Intel-gathering around here to me, so they're on their way to Raquel now."
"I guess that explains why they haven't answered my calls. They must have been getting intel." Levi mused before turning to Sidney. "And since you're here, I assume you couldn't get back to Grenville."
He nodded. "Yeah. I want to know what's going on over there, and I'm worried about my family, but..."
"Because of the conscription office, right?"
"Yeah, that's it. A lot of IDF troops are there as well."
"The general store owner said the same thing." Ares said.
Juna sighed. "I really wanted to hear how the branch campus is doing."
"Well, just leave it to me!" Sidney replied. "Seeing you all okay is a real load off my mind. So I wanna do whatever I can to help you guys out. I'm sure you're all worried about Instructor Rean, but don't do anything too reckless, all right? No doubt, he'll be just fine. He's got that ladies' man luck going on for him, after all."
"Speaking of ladies' man luck. Did you manage to get such luck?" Levi asked
"Heck yeah! There were two cuties I met along the way while riding my way back here. One of them kissed me on the cheek after I helped them out. I never felt so happy and alive! And it's all thanks to you, Levi."
"I'm not sure if I should take the credit. In any case, we should get going now."
"So what's our next plan now? Head to Raquel, right?" Ragna asked.
"It would be better, yes." Jin replied.
"If you find anything out, give us a call." Ash said.
"Sure, and you take care of yourselves." Sidney replied as we began to leave the Inn.
We all gather near the Milsante welcome sign.
"All right. I think that's all the info we can get from here." Ryker said.
"I'm glad we learned that Sidney and the others are safe." Kurt said.
"Yeah. But there isn't any singularity here as well." Venti replied
"Right, we should-" Levi paused as he notice something amiss. "Hm?"
"What's wrong, man?" Ash asked.
"It's here again..." Levi looked around the spot.
"You mean that fainted presence?" Kazuha asked. "Wait..." Kazuha look around the spot. "Someone is here."
"Hey... you're right...!" Venti said, nearly drawing his bow.
"We know you're here. You been watching us since we got here. Come out!"
(BGM paused)
"Hmhm, so I was found out. As expected of you, Levi. Your other friend, and student I should give credit" A voice replied.
The party turned around to see the source of the voice, that girl with long black hair wearing a long black Victorian-style dress with various ruffles and frills, a similarly adorned black sun hat, and knee-high leather boots. Accompany her was a Xatu, Gothitelle, and Gardevoir.
"Huh?!/What the-/?!/Whoa!/ Wah!/Holy-/The hell?!" The group yelled.
"H-hold on, how long have you been there?!" Ash asked in surprise.
'I didn't even sense her presence. Including her Pokemon.' Jin, Kurt, and Ryker thought.
(Super Mario Galaxy ost - Ghostly Galaxy or Fire Emblem Three Houses ost - Spirit Dais or Miles Edgeworth Ace Attorney Investigation 2 ost - Strange People or Luigi's Mansion Dark Moon ost - Ghost Theme 2 or 4 or 5 or 7 or 8 or 10 or Legend of Zelda Twilight Princess ost - Palace of Twilight or Fire Emblem Fates ost - Flickering Illusion or Pokemon Black and White 2 ost - Strange House)
"My, my. It seems the writer has placed numerous themes in my intro but could not decide, hmm? Even some belong to ghosts and spooky places? Hehe." The girl asked.
"Huh? W-What are you talking about? What's this about a writer?" Juna asked, feeling comfortable.
"Oh pay me no mind. Though I'm terribly sorry if I...disturbed you. Heh heh heh..."
"Oh I recognize that laugh, there's only one person who laughs like that..." Levi sighed. "It's been a while, hasn't it, Beryl?"
"Wait, you know who she is?" Juna asked.
"Yep, Beryl is another one of Thors graduates." Levi answered. "Though when I say graduate... I mean disappear."
"Yes, but that was a long time ago." Beryl replied. "But please, don't be alarmed, I am a traveling fortune-teller now. And the fate you share is...most interesting. I simply had to let you know. Heh heh heh..."
The group sweatdrop.
"O...kay." Juna responded.
Altina frowned. "This all seems very suspicious."
"That's Beryl for you, students. And my friends. I can vouch for her. Her fortune-telling is accurate." Levi replied. "Though I'm surprised you have Pokemon companions with you. A Gardenvor, Gothitelle and a... Xatu if I recall. Though seeing you with a Gothitelle definitely suits you."
"Goth..." Beryl's Gothitelle wave her hand downward as she giggled.
"Hehehe. Thank you for the compliment. But wouldn't you say the same to Gardevoir and Xatu? Each of them is my precious companion who can see the stars as I can." Beryl replied. "Anyway, how about I tell your fortunes? Allow me to make amends for scaring the students."
"Ooh, so you're like Mona?" Juna replied.
"As in Mona Megistus? Yes. She and I are friends. It does not surprise me that you knew her."
"Cool! I keep forgetting to ask Mona for a fortune telling so divine away, lady!"
"I forgot that you like the fortune section in those sketchy magazines." Altina replied
"Oh, c'mon! Who wouldn't be interested in their horoscopes?" Juna asked. "They wouldn't print it if it wasn't true!"
"Well Mona's predictions are accurate and help us back in the past." Kurt said.
"Yeah but that's Mona we're talking about. Honestly though. But if Sullivan can vouch for her then fine. I'm already used to the whole magic stuff after all that's happened." Ash sighed
"Well, you heard them. Go ahead, Beryl." Levi said.
"Very well, let's begin." Beryl got out a crystall ball and it glowed. "Hm, I forsee good things in a place surrounded by water. You shall reunite with an old friend, and that will lead you to a new path. But alas, it looks like you won't be finding your classmates, or your teacher, or driving a stake into the earth here, either."
"How did you-?" Venti blink
"Hmm, an old friend that'll lead us to a new path, but not who we're looking for." Levi pondered in thought before looking back up. "I guess you haven't changed at all, right...huh?"
(BGM ended)
Suddenly, as if by magic, Beryl was no longer present.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Wind Across the Water)
"No way!" Kurt gasped.
"How the hell did she do that?!" Shez exclaimed
"Do you think... one of her Pokemon uses Teleport?" Altina asked
"No. I don't think so." Levi sighed. "You have to excuse her, everyone. Beryl likes to disappear right away after reading someone's fortune. She did the same thing to me, and to Rean a long time ago. That's her thing when it comes to disappearing and reappearing."
Ash sighed. "Damn with this occult stuff..."
"But still, an old face and a new path. We should explore around here, there might be something that could relate to Beryl's fortune. Considering how long I have known her, I have a feeling she's right on the mark. Again."
"Good things in a place surrounded by water?" Juna hummed. "The first place that comes to mind..."
"The giant lake." Kurt answered. "We should check it out before we head to Raquel."
"All right, let's find the pathway down to the lake and see what's down there." Venti replied.
They begin to walk across the town where they found a pathway that leads downward to the giant lake.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Twilight Green Passage)
They walk down the path ahead of them as they notice there isn't any sign of monsters in the area.
"Huh... I don't sense any monsters here." Ares said.
"If I had to guess, they must have cleared them away to keep the tourists safe." Kazuha said as they walked further until they arrived at the view of the lake itself.
"Wow! This is a really nice little spot!" Juna smiled
"Yeah. It's got a good view from both the mountain and the waterfall." Shez nodded in agreement.
"It's also a good place to go for fishing." Kazuha added. "Maybe I should fish."
"So does anyone know what the waterfall's name and mountain are?" Ares asked.
"That's Gala Falls and the Greyborne mountain range." Ash asked. "People say they're the 'must-see' tourist spots here in Milstante."
"Oh! Well, hello there!" A voice responded as the group turned to the left and saw a fisherwoman approaching them.
"Annabelle, is that you?" Levi asked.
"Yep. Nice to see you too, Levi." Annabelle replied. " I see you got Rean's students with you and some new friends. Some of them are total hotties. Though I don't see Rean with you."
"Yeah, things have got a bit rough without him."
"I can understand why, after what I've heard from the other students. Speaking off, you haven't seen Kenneth on your travels, have you?!"
"I'm afraid not. We haven't seen him since our small class visited that fishing house outside Crossbell."
"So even he's unaccounted for." Kurt said.
Anabelle sighed. "I'm afraid so. Ever since the whole Incident in Heimdallr, I haven't been able to get in touch with him. To think that Rean is in such dire straits, too."
"If even we could make it this far, I'm sure Instructor Rean is all right." Altina assured.
"Yeah, what Allie said." Juna agreed. "And I'm sure Kenneth's doing just fine wherever he is, too."
"You know what? You're right." Annabelle smiled. "As long as I keep checking different fishing spots, I'm bound to run into him sooner or later. Lake Gala was my best bet, though. I guess it's back to square one."
"Speaking of spots, have you seen anything around here?" Levi asked.
"Well, I did find some weird hidden ruins back there."
"Did she just say 'ruins'?" Venti asked.
The group turn to their left and they spotted another Spirit Shrine.
"Ahh, so we found another Spirit Shrine." Levi chuckled. "Beryl was right on the money as always."
"I shouldn't be surprised at this point." Altina said
"First Mona, and now that creepy girl." Ash sighed.
"Anyways, Even Lake Gala, my prime candidate, was a miss. This is getting exhausting." Annabelle sighed "My hunger pangs are settling in, too. I'm sure I'll get some willpower back once my belly is full."She said, walking over to the lake and brought out her rod to start fishing.
"How do you even have the energy to fish at this point?" Ash asked.
"That's how devoted fishermen are sometimes." Levi sighed. "Once she starts fishing, she doesn't pay attention to anything else. That aside, we should prepare ourselves to go inside the Spirit Shrine Maybe we'll find another memory."
"Another what?" Ragna asked.
"Oh right. I'll explain as we go in."
"We should make sure we're fully prepared first. It could be dangerous." Altina advised.
The party then begin to approach the Spirit Shrine's Entrance as the ancient door open up for them as they go in.
(BGM ended)
(Super Mario Galaxy ost - Deep Dark Galaxy)
As the group arrive inside, some notice the same design of the entrance.
"Thus place seems familiar, too." Juna said.
"Yes. It reminds me of the ruins of Old Agria Road and Byonia Islands." Altina nodded
"Oh, Yeah." Ash said.
"But this one is called the Luna Shrine." Levi said, reading the plate. "Okay let's go down." He said as they went down. "Okay, so about the memory thing. When we enter one of these shrines, Class VII begins to see a vision or a memory of Drechels back in the Civil War. But in the Great Twilight, it was a small glimpse of a vision. The first was Zephyr, then the conversation between Rutger and Black Alberich."
"Uh huh... So how come you guys can see them while Yuri and the others couldn't?" Ragna asked
"It has something to do with Rean with our bonds with him and Valimar. You should be able to feel it too since you have a close bond with him."
"Hmm. I have a close friendship with Rean. Does that apply to me too?" Kazuha asked
"Probably. We have known each other for two years now." Levi shrugs as they reach the entrance to the Alter area. "Eh? That's it? No dungeon or anything? Just straight to the get-go?"
"Its appearance differs greatly from that of the Draco Shrine near Parm." Altina said
"And yet, it has the same design as the Sol Shrine back in Bryonia Island with stairs and corridors while this one just leads us to the altar." Venti pointed out until he, Levi, Ragna, Jin, Ryker, Shez, and Kazuha felt something.
(BGM paused)
"Brace yourselves, we've got company!" Levi shout as he got his Glaive out.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Malicious Fiend)
Another giant snake-like monster appeared with its body circling around a black crystal.
"Isn't this like the one we fought before?" Altina asked.
"Save the question for later. Get ready!" Levi yelled as the group form combat links.
Levi form a combat link with Ash as Juna and Venti form a combat link, Kurt and Altina form a combat link, Ryker and Ares form a combat link with each other and Shez form a combat link with Kazuha.
"Shatter them in ice: Frigid Blade!" Jin activated his Brave Order which increased the damage to everyone and Insight buff to the group as Lilith Domina launched it's head toward them but the group dodged and Ragna punched the human face with his dark powers, then swung his Armara upward as Altina used her Detector Craft on it.
"It's weak to fire Arts and Magic! And weakness to Strike and Pierce weapons!" Altina informed the group.
"Then me, Juna, Altina, Ragna-" Venti was interrupted as Lilith Domina launched an icy break onto him. "Whoa!"
"Quit talking and fight!" Jin said as he rushed over and launched combo slashes at Lilith Domina as Ragna launched his swings onto the body and Lilith Domina launched a rapid spin attack onto them before it began to cast Cross Crusade onto them, striking them.
"Ngh! I can use magic Huh?" Shez grunted.
"Crescent Mirror!" Venti cast his Mirage Orbal Arts and magic to equip everyone and largely buff their defense and resist.
"Perfect!" Ragna smirked as Ares and Ryker launched their slashes on Lilith Domina but swiped them away with its neck as it began to fire laser eyes at them, but it was reflected back at it.
Venti begin shooting as Juna punches its face before hitting the left cheek. Lilith Domina attempted to bite Juna, but Levi launched a flurry of slashes on the back and Ash launched powerful swings onto the Black crystal, forcing its attention on them, turning its attention to them, and trying to ram them but Levi formed a counterattack pose and strike it, letting Ash launch some powerful swings as Altina and Kurt let out their slashes. Shez launches some twin slashes as Kazuha launches some combo slashes onto it. Lilith Domina spun rapidly and then opened its mouth and fired a black mist onto the group, forcing them to dodge.
Levi used Penetrate Hurl to strike the beast as Ash followed up with a slam. Juna ran up to the face and then bash it. Lilith Domina snarled at Juna and fired a laser at her, but the Magic reflector struck it back at it as Venti shot his arrow around its body while Ragna launched heavy swings with Jin let out ice-project slashes. Kurt's launch slashes onto it as Ares cast a fireball spell onto it. Ryker launches some combo slashes with a cartwheel flip. Lilith Domina's eyes glow and then summon rocks and launch them toward the group. Some of them broke the rocks with their strength while the others either got behind them or dodged.
"Activate Fragarach!" Altina raised her arm to use her next Craft: Fragarach 2 and slammed Lilith Domina as Shez launched some twin slashes by swinging slashes around, then a large purple energy slash projection slash cartwheel upward to strike the monster, causing it to turn to purple mist on its defeat.
(BGM ended)
"All right, that's..." Levi paused when what happened back in the Draco Shrine happened again to him and the New Class VII... but this time, Ragna and Kazuha received the same flash.
(Dragon Ball Z Kai ost - A Power that Cannot be Defied)
"RELINQUISH IT TO ME..." They saw a vision of an old man in bed. staring at a black fog-like entity with three eyes as its black mist tenacles near the bed. "IT BELONGS TO ME...YOUR SOUL...YOUR ENTIRE BEING..."
The next scene vanished as a woman with a golden hair and armor, accompanied by Aether joined the scene next.
"Dreichels...What was that just now?" The woman asked while Aether looked at Dreschels with a concerned look.
"Haha, it's been an age and a half, Lianne, Aether. You haven't changed at all from when I last saw you two. No...if anything Lianne, you're more beautiful than ever."
(BGM ended)
The vision then fade.
"W-What the heck?" Juna gasped. "It happened again... but I saw it clearly this time."
"Was that another vision of the past?" Kurt said
"Most likely yes... However..." Levi place his hand on his forehead, looking shocked and confused. "This time it's Lianne Sandlot and Dreichels. But... Drechel said Aether... as in our Aether?"
(Fire Emblem Three Houses ost - Dwellings of the Ancient Gods)
"Damn... What the hell was that?" Ragna rub his head.
"You saw it too?" Juna asked.
"Saw what?" Shez asked.
"Hold up. "Is this what you guys talked about earlier? About a vision?" Ragna asked
"I'm surprised that I was able to see it among with you." Kazuha rub his chin.
"Yes. But this time we can see a little more clearer." Altina nodded. "But how can you see it?"
"Hmm. It may be because of my and Yuri's hypothesis that those who are closest to Rean as a second contractor can see these memories." Levi explained "But how they resonate with us is still a mystery to me. Because of Valimar? No... I should think about that another time. What concerns me more was Aether... why was he there?"
"Hey yeah, you're right! Aether was in the vision too! But... that can't be right!" Juna said.
"But they look exactly the same..." Kurt rub his chin.
"Um. Guys. Mind telling us what you saw?" Ares asked
"We saw a vision or at least the memories of Dreichel Reise Arnor. The legendary Emperor of Erebonia's history. We saw that some mysterious... creepy, disturbing entity saying relinquished something to Dreschel. His soul? His being? What does he mean by that? After that, the Lance Maiden, Lianne Sandlot... the Steel Maiden of Ouroboro: Arianrhod was there... and... Aether was there too." Levi explained
"Wait what?" Shez asked in surprise.
"But how could that be?" Kazuha rub his chin. "Aether was present within Dreichel or within the vision of the past? Could... Could he be the same as the Steel Maiden and the Jaeger King?"
"That's a good question. We need to ask him directly." Venti nodded. 'Oh no... I better warn him.'
"God dammit. There are too many questions it seems. Come on. We got some hint, right?" Ash asked. "We should tell Schwarzer once he's back."
"Yeah." Levi nodded. "Let's head to Raquel now. It should be beyond the canyon from the west of here. The horses will take us quickly. Let's go." He said as they took off while Aether thinks. 'Dreichel the Lionheart... Lianne Sandlot... and... Aether... how is here... wait...' Levi close his eyes as he recalled two years ago with Vita and a vision he saw at the Shrine.
In his mind, he remembered the vision where Dreichels, Lianne Sandlot, and the Golden Wanderer were at the Spirit Shrine, seeing a chunk of Zemurian Ore. And the other vision where the Golden Wanderer offered his hand to Dreichels in a village.
"Dreichels the Lionheart, Yes. And the woman and man with him was the Lance Maiden, Lianne Sandlot, and the Golden Wanderer. The Golden Wanderer was a warrior with immense skills, wisdom and strength. None can par with him. He was the one who helped Dreichel reach the Nord Highland. During the war, they, too had to borrow the strength of the Divine Knight. And they were drawn into a conflict between fragments of the Great Power. Just like Rean and Crow during this war." Vita replied "But while the Golden Wanderer aided Dreichel to overcome the tide of battle... His name and appearance vanished from history."
"Hehe... Traveling is like doors where you reach out and visit new worlds. Have you heard of the Nord Highland? I'll take you there. I think you'll fit right in with the Nomads there." The Golden Wanderer smiled.
'It can't be... Could he be...' Levi thought as they left the shrine.
The arrival of town and to the Spirit Shrine. Quite a shock to everyone there.