(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Parm, the Spinning Town)
"Phew! We're finally here." Juna said as the group dismounted their horses and Levi placed them in the Dimentional Home before going into town.
"It's been a long journey." Altina added.
"Well, it's a good thing Levi got us horses to make this quick." Yuri said before looking around. "So this is Parm, right? It looks like a fine town."
"Well, it is called the Spinning Town for it's waterwheel." Levi told them. "Parm is known for wool cultivation and spinning workshops.
"It hasn't changed since we came here for our field study." Kurt said with a smile.
"This was your childhood home as I recalled." Venti recalled. "But it's also a certain village nearby it."
"A "certain village?" Hapi asked.
"Yes. It's on the way to the Liberl border." Altina nodded
"Now that we're in Parm, let's get some more intel and find Pablo and Tatiana. Kairi should already informed them by now." Levi said
Juna nodded. "Yeah, let's visit the training hall while we look for them."
"A sound idea." Kurt agreed. "Let's go."
The group then begin to wonder around the down as Hapi spotted some fishes in the water where Altina pull out her fishing rod and then fish, then pulled out s Snow Crab. They went into the Chapter to speak to the priest name Father Hobbins where he was trouble by something.
"Father Hobbins, are you all right?" Kurt asked. "You seem gravely worried."
"Oh! It's good to see you, Kurt." Father Hobbins greeted. "I heard you've had some trouble in Heimdallr. I wouldn't dare to pry into your private addairs, though. All I have to say is that I'm glad to see you're well."
"Haha, thank you for your concern. That aside, it seems the people of Parm are also in a difficult position. You seem distraught, too."
"Perhaps, but just about everywhere has hit hard times lately."
"Thats true." Juna nodded. "But is there something we could do for you, Father?"
"As members of Class VII, we cannot ignore those in need of assistance." Altina added
"I'd rather not bother you, but... If you insist." Father Hobbins said as he clear his throat. "It's a simple matter, really. We've been running out of ingredient for making medicines."
"Does it have something to do with the requisition?" Yuri asked
"Indeed. The church is exempt, but the townspeople have been forced to give up much of their supplies. It has made it practically impossible for us to obtain them. I've been considering purchasing alternative ingredients. Unfortunately, it isn't as if we have substitutes on hand, either."
"That is quite the conundrum." Jurt said. 'Our time may be limited, but it would weight heavily on my conscience if we did nothing to help.' Kurt thought. "We would like to offer our assistance. "
Juna nodded. "Yeah! Give us a list and we'll be able with the stuff before you know it!"
Father Hobbins chuckled. "I admire your confidence, and... thank you for the offer. There are only two ingredients, in fact. The first one is Rainbow Rubia, a very rare plant. In this town, it's mostly used for preparing dye."
"Oh I remember that. We collected that during our field exercises." Venti recalled. "It can staunch bleeding and relieve fevers."
"Color me impressed, young man!"
"You got excellent memory Venti." Levi said
"Hehe. Instructor Rean taught me a trick or two." Venti chuckled.
"If I remember correctly, Rainbow Rubia should be available at the department store in Saint-Arkh. It was at Sterry Farm Luxury Food... Hopefully, they'll have some in stock." Altina said.
"Then we'll head over there." Levi said. "So what's the other one?"
"A medicinal plant known as a healing herb. Archbishop Ramsen at Saint-Arkh Cathedral should have those. If you explain what you need it for, I'm sure he won't mind giving you some."
Kurt nodded. "Understood. We'll procure the ingredients for you."
"Thank you, and good luck!"
"All right, let's go guys." Levi said.
"Why don't you kids go to Saint-Arkh while we look around town for a bit." Yuri suggest.
"Got it. Let's go." Levi said as they leave the Chapel and Levi open a portal to Saint-Arkh as New Class VII go in.
Class VII made through the Cathedral Square as they go into Albion Garden Dept. Store where they go to the counter.
"Welcome! Are you looking for anything in Particular?" The Cashier asked.
"Yeah. Do you have any Rainbow Rubia by any chance?" Levi asked.
"I'm sorry. We don't have any Rainbow Rubia in stock." The Cashier sighed.
"Not even a little bit?" Juna asked
"We never carried much of it to begin with, and it's become difficult to have them, brought in because of the way things are right now."
"Well this is a shame. Is there some other way we can get them?" Venti wondered
"You all seem to be agonizing over a certain food ingredient, hmm? Perhaps I could assist." A man approach them
"Who are you?" Levi asked
"My name is Orvid. I just so happen to run a business in Liberl that deals in the rarest of ingredients. To have your sight set on Rainbow Rubia... And at such a tender age, too! Without a doubt, you have a bright future as gourmands! In appreciation of that potential, I'll tell you of a place I've seen it growing.
"I feel like I've seen this guy from somewhere." Juna whisper.
"Oh good, you're not the only one." Venti nodded in whisper.
"A 'food ingredient'? Is Rainbow Rubia edible?'" Altina wondered. "I suppose there are some medicinal herbs that are used in cooking but, well..."
"Doesn't this remind you of a certain student?" Levi whisper to the group.
"Yes... I can only hope that he's doing well, too." Kurt nodded "But either way, knowing where it grows would be a big help."
"Thanks for the help Mister. So where is the Rainbow Rubia?" Venti asked.
"I found them on my way back from the Isthmia Great Forest. It was just on the West Sutherland Highway. It's a high spot with good sunshine."
"Thanks for the info!"
"But why would someone from Liberl risk going to such a dangerous area at this time?" Altina wondered.
"I'll go anywhere in search for delicacies. That's all there is to it." Orvid said. "If it weren't for the current circumstances, I'd prefer to keep searching their country for many more delectable ingredients. But aslas! At the very least, I'll still be able to visit Isthmia Great Forcest twice more, before I return to Liberl."
"Then please... do take care of yourself." Kurt said as they took off to West Sutherland Highroad where they wonder around for a bit to the place Orvid mention until they spotted the Rainbow Rubia.
"Split terms and small red flowers... These must be Rainbow Rubia." Kurt said.
"There aren't a lot of them left." Altina said. "They're pretty rare. We shouldn't take more than just we need." Juna said as Kurt pick the herb up and place it in his pocket.
"All right, now for Saint-Arkh Cathedral." Levi said as they walk back to Saint-Arkh and walk their way to the Cathedral as they spoke with the Archbishop.
"Excuse us, Archbishop, but might we trouble you for a moment?" Kurt asked.
"What seems to be the matter? I'd be happy to help. however I can." Archbishop Ramsen said.
"Well, we received a request from Father Hobbins in Parm. He would like to ask for some healing herbs for medicine."
"Ah, I understand. Wait here. I'll prepare some now." He got up from his hair and then headed out the door and wait for a few minutes and then came back. "Is this enough?" He asked, holding enough herbs as he gave it to them.
"That's perfect! Thanks so much!" Juna smiled.
"Sorry about this whole thing. You must be low on supplies." Levi said.
"Oh don't worry about it. We've been saving some, so we have enough to spare." Archbishop Ramen smiled. "If I may impact just one more thing... Though the instructor who was here with you before may no longer be by your side... I know, without a doubt, that his teaching remains with you, no matter where he may be. If you are ever unsure of your path, that which he has left in your heart will lead the way."
"Thank you Archbishop. Your words means so much to us." Venti smiled.
"That's everything. Let's head back to Father Hobbins." Levi said as they leave the Cathedral and walk their way back to South Sutherland Highway where Levi teleported them back to Parm entrance where they went back to the Chaptal.
"Father Hobbins, we're back! We got the ingredients!" Venti called out and hand it over to him.
"Thank you! This should last us a good while! I have something for you, too. It isn't much, but I hope you find it useful." Father Hobbin handed them over three Tear Balm and a Heal Quartz.
"Are you sure you want to give us these to us?" Juna asked
"That's right. Haven't the supply requisitions driven you into a tight spot?" Altina asked.
"Oh don't be silly. I wouldn't feel right if I couldn't thank you somehow for your help. Your kindness and willingness to lend a hand to those in need are very heartening to me. I would be truly glad if you could continue to help those in need like you did here. Aidios is watching over you, so I hope you'll continue to do your best."
"Thank you, Father Hobbins." Kurt smiled
"I hope we can live up to your expectations." Juna cheered as Altina and Venti nodded in agreement.
'Hehe. They have really grown into a dependable bunch.' Levi thought with a smile.
As they leave the Chaptal, they headed over to the training hall but there are people there, along with a van park near the highway.
"Looks like someone's outside the training hall." Juna said
"What?" Kurt blinked
"Wait, those uniforms." Levi said as he look exam the uniform from a safe distance. "Those are Heimdallr Military Police. But why are they here?"
Kurt look up to the building. "The sign's been removed as well. I wonder what happened to all the students?"
"From what I can tell, they've all gone to Heimdallr." A voice answered as a young man young man wearing casual clothes, sporting a chequered button-down shirt over a black long-sleeved turtle neck, a padded sleeveless jacket, and jeans with red sneakers. Beanie hat and holding an orbal camera. Accompany him was a Aipom.
"I recognize that voice and face. Is that you, Rex?!" Levi asked as he looked surprised
"Well, well, you sure changed a lot, Levi. You're even more handsome than before. I swear, it's like Aidios gave you the gift of beauty." Rex sighed
"Aipom~" Rex's Aipom laughed as it holding an orbal camera too.
"Those look like a fairly expensive model of orbal camera… are you a journalist?" Altina asked.
"Oh, man, was it that obvious?" Rex asked.
"Well I remember you were in the Photo club so it make sense you're a journalist now. But I didn't expect you have a Pokemon companion." Levi said
"Hehe, I know right? Let me introduce myself to you. I'm the Imperial Chornicle's world-famous photographer. The one, the only, Rex! With me is my partner and best friend in the whole world, Aipom."
"Aipom!" Rex's Aipom gave a peace sign with his hand... I think.
"And on that note...you two cuties are real works of art. Mind if I get a quick photo?"
Levi sweatdrop as he sigh. "Yep. It really is you Rex. You haven't changed at all."
"Uh.., maybe some other time." Juna answered as she scratched her cheeks. "You said you're with the Imperial Chronicle?"
"Are you a friend of Vivi's by any chance?" Kurt asked.
"Oh, you know her? She's in a different department, but yeah, we're colleagues." Rex replied. "She's gone quiet, though. There's no way to get in touch with her either. You don't know what she's been up to, do you?"
"Sadly no. We don't know what happened to her." Levi answered
"Wherever she wandered off to, I hope she's at least found a big scoop. Anyway, as for me, I've just finished interviewing the guys at Titus Gate so I've got some free time on my hands. I've got this project. 'Cuties of Erebonia'. You sure you don't want to be featured?"
"He appears to be quite sleazy." Altina whispered.
"He'd give Randy or Sindey a run for his mira." Juna added quietly.
"Sorry Rex, they're not interested." Levi said as he fold his arm.
"Aw, that's a shame. Then again, maybe I could ask one of your old Class VII buddies." Rex winked.
"Be my guest, but they'll respond the same thing."Levi sweatdrops. "Anyway, you mention Titus Gate. Is there something going on over there?"
"Not yet, but something's brewing, I can tell you. I took some photos for now, before all hell breaks loose. Might make for a dramatic comparison later." Rex answered "I managed to wrangle some info-" Then he click. "Oops, shouldn't said that."
"Reeex." Levi gave him the stick eye. "If you know something. Would you kindly tell us?"
"Yes, there are things we need to know. What about the disciples from the training hall? You said they've been sent away? Can you tell us more, please?" Kurt asked.
"All right. They've been headhunted for some special project. The Empire's most promising fighters are being snatched up to pilot Panzer Soldats."
"What?!"
"So they're being drafted into those things for the upcoming war with Calvard?" Venti asked.
"Well, yeah. That's the idea." Rex nodded "You thought with the war just around the corner they'd let Vander school disciples peacefully practice their skills in their hall?"
Kurt clenched his fist.
"I swear, that bastard really knows how to piss me off." Levi muttered, "I can't believe he would have them forced into his schemes."
"Why do you know this much?" Altina asked.
Rex then gasped. "O-oh, look at the time! I'm going to be late for my train! Oh, by the way, wanna exchange contact info, just in case you find Vivi and you can let me know." He said as he exchange with Levi and the new Class VII.
"That's fine, but-"
"Got it. Thanks! Bye! Lemme photograph you next time!" He said as he and his Aipom ran off in a hurry.
"Hold it, Rex!" Levi said but too late, causing him to let out a groaned. "I sweat that guy."
"He was quick to make his exit when we started asking him questions." Altina said.
"Well... I guess a journalist has its rules and restrictions on what they can and can't share." Levi sighed. "In any case. I'm worried about Vivi. That girl always know how to get into trouble. But we're also worried about you Kurt."
"Yeah, you feeling okay?" Juna nodded
"Yes." Kurt sighed. "I was just a bit shocked that the disciples were conscripted."
"We can blame the National Mobilization Law for that" Levi sadden "However, we don't know for certain that they've been forced to join the imperial troops."
"Perhaps..."
"Ah, there you guys are." A voice said as they catch up with the Ashen Wolves and Pablo. "It's good to see you're back." Yuri said.
"Hey Yuri! And everyone else." Levi smiled
"And Pablo is with them too!" Juna smiled
"Looks like you just got back. Good timing." Kurt added
"It's good to see yeh guys Levi and Class Vll! Yeh friends, the Ashen Wolves gave me the heads up." Pablo said.
"Right. He approach us when Kairi let him know. We begin to exchange information." Hapi said.
"In that case, you can fill us in. By the way, where's Tatiana? Wasn't she with you Pablo?" Levi asked.
"Aye, but she set off for the Liberlian border. Said she was meetin' up with someone there." Pablo nodded
"The Liberlian border..." Altina pondered. "Wouldn't that be Titus Gate?"
"But that's a MILITARY BASE!" Juna exclaimed. "What's she thinking heading over there on her own?"
"I tried to stop her, but she kept tellin' me she'd be fine an' that her friend was gonna meet her there." Pablo replied. "She went by bus, so I'm sure she'll make it there just fine, at least."
"Maybe we should go and check in on her, just in case." Kurt advised
"Yeah. We also need to check on about the black Pleroma Grass too." Venti nodded "Speaking off, do you know anything about them?"
"Aye, we had a few customers mention seein' something like that up on the old road nearby." Pablo answered
"Old road? You mean Agria Old Road?" Levi asked
"That's the one. Lemme think... It was a little while ago. They mentioned seein' it near some kinda stone monument."
"Huh? That sounds a lot like the place we fought that archaism?" Kurt said
"Yeah, right down to the stone monument thing. Do you think it's actually related to the singularity this time?" Juna asked
"Those Black Pleroma Grass are an omen. Still, it does help us with clues." Constance said.
"Thanks for the tip, Pablo." Venti smiled
"Nae worries." Pablo nodded. "Sorry it's not all that much. Thought I woulda found some better info by now to give to yae."
"It's okay, we'll find out the rest ourselves."
"If yae happen to run into Tatiana, give her my regards. I'll see if I can dig anything else up for yae on the singularity."
"Thanks Pablo." Levi nodded. "Alright class, wolves, let's head to that stone monument first." He said as they nodded and took off to the Old Agria Road.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Twilight Green Passage)
"So this is... the Old Agria Road?" Balthus asked. "What's with the old part?"
"Don't know. But some roads are like that." Alsin shrug as they walk the path ahead of them and took down some monsters before going up the stairs.
"The monument should be somewhere up there on the plateau." Kurt said.
"I think you're right. This is also where we met you, Levi." Juna comment
"You got good memory. If we follow this path, we'll reach it." Levi said
"Let's begin our search." Altina said
"Right. Hope we can find the singularity while we're at is." Venti nodded
"Yeah. Let us hope we do." Hapi replied as they walk up the hills until they reach the stone monument area.
"What the..." Levi blinked.
"This is the stone monument you were talking about?" Balthus asked.
"No... This is a Spirit Shrine. A type of ruins crafted by the Gnomes over 900 years ago. They were used for harvesting very rare Ore called Zemurian Ore from the Spirit Veins."
"It's also the same place, Me, Juna, Kurt, Venti, and Instructor Rean fought the base defense heavy-class archaism. I don't remember seeing those ruins here back then," Altina said.
"They look a lot like the Bryonia Island Ruins." Juna said.
"Yeah, the design looks the same but the color is different." Venti nodded
"You're right. We may find some clues here. Let's go check it out." Levi nodded
"If we're going in there, we'll need to be prepared first." Kurt advised.
"Sounds like a plan. Us wolves are outsiders to this case so we'll leave the decision to you." Yuri said as they nodded as they went in the Draco Shrine
(BGM paused)
(Pokemon Sun and Moon ost - Seaward Cave)
"This place is reminiscent of the ruins of Bryonia Island." Kurt comment
"You're right. The Sol Shrine." Levi nodded. "But what's the name of this place?"
Hapi turn her head and see the name on the plate. "Draco Shrine. Huh. That's convenient."
"So this Sol Shine is the name of other shirne you went to?" Constance asked.
"Yeah. That's where Millium was-" Juna then covered her mouth and look sad. "Er! I mean..." Then she sighed. "I'm sorry, Allie."
"It's all right, Juna." Altina replied.
"We'll avenge Millium. That I swear." Levi said.
"Oh, Levi..." Venti sighed as they walked down the stairs until they arrived near a Charging Orbment station where they entered an area where monsters were roaming. "This Shrine really is different from the one back in Bryonia island."
"Indeed. We only found an alter at the end of the Bryonia Island ruins, but there's no telling what lies, ahead here." Kurt said.
"We'll need to keep on high alert if we continue further." Altina advised. "There are monsters littering the area at every turn."
"Roger that!" Juna nodded "Oh, Actually, let me check something real quick." Juna pulled out the pendulum but nothing happen."Hmm... Nothing. Doesn't look like there's a singularity around."
"But I am curious about this place." Venti replied. "There may be clues as Levi pointed out."
"Right. Let us see what's at the end." Levi nodded
"Understood!" Kurt nodded
"In that case, let's get going." Alsin nodded as they begin to explore the Draco Shrine.
They begin to talk down the path, going down the stairs and face some monsters as they continue going down as they as they reach a fork in the road.
"A fork in the road. Which way we go?" Balthus asked.
"That one." Levi pointed to the straight path. "Because that path only leads a dead end with a treasure chest." He pointed as they see a treasure chest on the other path.
"Well that was easy. But let's snatch that booty!" Balthus approach the chest and pick up Zeran Powder. "Um... what's this?"
"That's an Zeram Power. It's a rare power that can heal your body completely and restore some manner of stamina."
"Damn, it's almost like a drug or something!"
"Don't put it that way! People will get the wrong idea!" Levi palm face. "Regardless, this is an extremely rare item! Let's put it away. We might need it." He said as Balthus put it in the inventory."
They continue exploring the Shrinr where they reach a fork in a road again, but the one leading upstairs reveal a chest with five U-Materials which they pick it up and store it in their inventory. They went further down the shrine until they come across a floor mechanism to get past. Altina spotted a treasure chest as she use Claiomh Solais to ride toward it and pick up a Soft Stole and put it in the Inventory and joined the others as they continued. They spotted a broken later, but Alsin used his ice magic toc create ice stairs for them to use where they found some treasure chests, pick up Sepiths of all kinds for 50. Then continue making their way until they reach the depth of the Shrine.
"Look, it's another one of those Chest Trial." Alsin pointed as they approach it. But nothing happened. "No one feel anything."
"I guess not." Kurt said. "Maybe some of the other members might be required."
"Let's make a mental note of it." Levi said as they made a note and a reminder to check out the trial box in the Draco Shrine.
They go into the alter area where they arrived in a large room where the green crystals light up.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Malicious Fiend)
Suddenly a giant snake-like monster wrap in a jewel appeared.
"A monster now?" Alsin asked.
"All right! Let's turn this rock monster to crumbles!" Balthis smirked.
Ancient Serpent with a face of a man-monster - Stone Domina
Juna forms a link with Kurt, Altina forms a link with Levi, Venti forms a link with Alsin, Constance forms a link with Hapi and Yuri forms a link with Balthus. And then joining the Battle were the Pokemon. Juna Poke-link with Quaxwell, Kurt's Pokemon is Prinplup, Altina's Pokemon is Alakazam, and Venti's Pokemon is his Ducklett.
"Rain down that money! Golden Fist!" Balthus activated his Brave Order with Increase their damage and Buff their strength large but only a short awhile.
Stone Domina unleash a petrifying breath onto them but Venti used his wind magic to blow them to the Wyvern Warrior and Wyvern Wizard reinforcements. The Wyvern Wizards wave their winds to shoot water arts onto the group.
"Alakazam, use Psybeam!" Altina yelled.
"Alakazam!" Alakazam cross it spoons and shoot a rainbow beam onto multicolor beam onto the Wyvern Warriors as one of them ran toward Yuri... only to get kill after Yuri swiftly strike it with one blow.
The Wyvern Warrior let out a roar as it swing his sword fierely toward Yuri but he throw a dagger on it's chest and Balthus punch it toward the Wizard as Stone Domina then cast an Earth Orbal Art Gravion Hammer onto them and deliver a strong blow.
"Argem Heal!" Altina used her healing craft: Argem Heal to restore the group as Constance cast Bolting onto the Stone Domina as Hapi then cast Luna to gather the monsters and pierce their defenses.
Juna used her Brave Smash 2 through them as Kurt follow up with twin slashes as Venti shoot his arrow on the serpent's face, causing it to roar and unleash a breath attack on him. Venti ran toward his right as Levi slash the neck of the face, causing it to turn his head, only for Prinplup to used Metal Claw on it and Quaxwell to used Aqua Cutter on it and Ducklett used Bubble Beam on it's face. Stone Domina quickly spin around and unleash a petrify break toward them and petrifying some of the group.
Before it can attack Juna, Balthus ran up to his face and a spin kick and knock it on it's back. Venti cast his Orbal Art: Recuria onto the group to undo their petrification. Stone Domina got up and then cast Gravion Hammer onto them as they got struck by it. Balthus's brave order was finished as Levi use Penetrate Hurl onto the monsters and defeating them, but Stone Domina is still active as it charge toward Altina to bite her. Altina had Claiomh Solais project her with the barrier and then swing her arms to knock it back.
"Hellzone Grenade!" Altina summon several sphere of energy around the monster and then cause a massive explosion on it as Constance channel lighting in her land and shoot it, creating a beam of lighting to strike it. Then Hapi cast Hades onto it, Alsin used his Ice Magic to create an Ice Serpent to bite the neck deeply and Juna finish it off by charging her Gunbreakers and use Frozen Fist on it, causing it to explore into purple light.
(BGM ended)
(Resuming Seaward Cave)
"Phew. Man that was a tough fight. I never encounter a monster who can summon powerful magic at us with a heavy blow." Hapi said.
"No kiddin'. It was a challenging brute." Balthus nodded
"Balthus, you're the last person to call anyone a brute." Alsin gave her a deadpan look.
"Either way, we managed to defeat it. Is everyone all right?" Yuri asked.
"Yeah, we're good. But is this the dead end?" Juna asked
Kurt look around. "You're right. It seems like there isn't a singularity here."
"Well at least it made some descent practice at leas-" Levi paused
Suddenly, New Class VII and Levi felt a heartbeat and their view was clouded with a vision and there were voices being spoken.
(BGM pauses)
(Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valencia ost - Schemes)
"I have a certain...proposal that you might find of interest. And as it so happens, everything we need to execute it can be found nearby. There is, after all, only room for one in this deal..." Alberich said
"I can't even remember why we chose that place for our final showdown. But it's obvious to me now. You've been the one pullin' the strings behind our backs this whole time." Rutger respond
(BGM ended)
"Huh... What was that just now?" Juna blink.
"We all saw that right? Then it wasn't a daydream." Kurt asked
Is it me or did we see Alberich and Zephyr?" Venti asked.
"Yes, it would seem that we all saw the same vision." Altina replied.
"It's just like back at the civil war." Levi hummed. "No... this feels... different."
(Fire Emblem Fates ost - Flickering Illusion)
"Hello, space cadets. You awake?" Yuri snapped his finger to get their attention.
"What's the matter? You all just stare into space." Balthis said.
"Wait, you guys didn't see the vision?" Venti asked
"What vision?" Hapi asked.
"If they didn't see it... then why only us?" Kurt turn to the others.
Levi rub his chin. "Could it be possible is our connection to Rean and Valimar? Because that's how it happened back in the Civil War. And since Yuri and the others were affected by the Great Twilight..."
"Then it must be because of Instructor Rean? Or Valimar?" Altina wondered
"Um, do you mind explaining what are you talking about?" Constance asked.
"We saw visions of Xeno and Leo talking to Black Alberich, After that, it was a conversation between Rutger and Alberich. Something about pulling the strings. It was very fragmented, however." Altina explained.
"Hmm..." Yuri rub his chin. "I think it's possible those who are closest bonded with Rean must experience these visions you guys mention. After the Great Twilight happened two weeks ago. Byleth suddenly felt a change within him. His appearance was fine... but turns out his Brave Order somehow weakened."
"So it is our connection to Rean and Valimar then that allows only us to see those visions." Venti mused. "But that scene with Alberich making a deal with Xeno and Leo... It sounds like there's another Awakener involved."
"We should let Fie and Instructor Rean know when he's back!" Juna said.
"Good thinking." Levi nodded. "We found some good pieces of information. It might be wise to look through these ruins if we see more of them elsewhere. For now, let's get out of here and get back to our main goal."
"Indeed." Altina nodded
"All right!" Kurt nodded
(BGM ended)
And so the group begin to leave the ruins by exiting the alter area. Once the door closes behind them.
"What an interesting sight it was." Dimentio said as he appeared. "So the New Class VII was able to witness the memories of the ancient past, hm? Or perhaps the memories from the Black Records... Either way, it doesn't matter. The truth will be revealed in due time." He said before he disappeared.
Back with Class VII and group...
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Twilight Green Passage)
The group arrived at Parm Byroad where they spotted the Bus.
"Oh hey! That bus lead us to the boarder!" Venti said but the bus took off. "Aww, we missed it. Guess that means it's back to riding!"
"For someone who misses the bus, you sure are more happy to ride horses." Altina said.
"Well, he is a fellow horse lover as I. We can take our horses since the boss is left." Levi said as he summoned the horses for everyone to mount on. "Besides, riding the horses is better then taking the bus."
"Right. Public transportation may have been alerted to our likenesses." Kurt nodded
"Right. With that said, let's ride. Yah!" Levi yelled as they begin to ride toward Titus Gate.
As they ride though the scenery and avoiding the monsters nearby and some Bug-Type Pokemon napping in the trees, Class VII spotted a familiar path
"Oh! Over there!" Juna said as they stop and saw that familiar path.
"That road leads to Hamel." Altina added
"Ash's hometown..." Venti sadden
"Ash's Hometown?" Yuri asked.
"Yeah... It look like it's been blocked off by the army." Kurt sighed.
"We'll tell you about it some other time. Come on. Let's go." Levi said as they continue riding until they decided to go up the pathway that reach a familiar view to the students.
"Man, it feels like ages since we've been here." Juna said as they saw the view from Hamel entrance.
"This is right where we hid the Drakkhen if memories serves." Kurt nodded
"Oh yeah, Ash was clever how he 'borrowed' the Drakkhen as a distraction." Venti chuckled
"Ash's plan was really quite good." Altina added
"Hahaha, oh yeah, that's where you all went AWOL to help us out." Levi laughed.
"You guys had quite the adventures." Yuri said
Hapi turned her head."Hey, isn't that one of the Trail Crest?" She pointed as they turn and see one of the Trail Crest.
"Oh you're right. But who could it be I wonder." Levi said as they dismount and approached it.
"Huh. I can feel something just now." Venti said.
"Same. What about the rest of you?" Altina asked as they shook their heads. "Guess it's you and me Venti."
"Sounds like it. Ready?"
"Ready." Altina said as they opened it and they got suck in.
(BGM paused)
Inside the Trial Chest.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Erosion of Madness)
Altina and Venti spotted a giant mantis monster.
"Well that's a giant bug." Venti sweatdrop.
"So this is our opponent? Very well. Venti." Altina turn her head.
"Hehe. As you wish~" Venti form a combat link with Altina as they face the Giant Roach.
The Giant Roach ran toward the duo and swipe with it's claws but they dodged as Venti used his wind magic to knock the bug away.
"It's weak to your wind magic!" Altina told him.
"In that case, this will be easy." Venti then summon several wind blades around him and Altina as it begin to sprung around them before they rush toward then giant bug.
Giant Rouch called for more bug monsters to ojin the fight as Altina swipe attack with Claiomh Solais as Venti shoot his orbal wind arrow at the monster. The Rouches begin to approach Venti as he spotted them and then shoot his arrows to knock them back as Altina swipe and slash the Giant Rouch as it pushed back. It begin to used it's tongue to suck in Altina's health but Claiomh Solaius block it with the arms. Then Altina rush it back as she used her Bomb Magic to cause an explosion on it, Venti follow up by shooting one arrow after the other onto the Giant Rough.
The Giant Rouch slam it's claws to the ground but Venti's wind blades cut a small part of it's claws as it screech as it step back and then used it's tongue on Altina and then suck on her HP. Altina used her Bomb Magic to expled on the tongue to cause it to panicked as it jump around.
"You'll pay for that." Altina wick with a chilly aura and then spread her arm. Volcanic Explosion!" She yelled as a volcano-like explosion launch Giant Rouch into the air before it was completely vanquished by the explosion of the volcano.
Venti sweatdrop. 'That was... extreme...' And the whole scene went white.
Back to the others.
(Resuming Twilight Green Passage)
Altina and Venti return to the others as Altina and Venti felt a power within their Brave Order.
"We're back." Altina said.
"All right! Way to go Allie! Venti!" Juna cheered
"Indeed. Now that's taken care off, come on." Altina said as she waited for Venti to help her climb up the horse as he mounted up and then help her up.
"Ahaha... Well, let's go." Venti said with a nervous laugh and then took off, causing the others to look confused.
'What happened in there?' They wondered before following them toward the next road ahead.
As they ride toward the next road, they spot the same bus that leads to Titus Gate going back to its previous stop.
"Looks like the bus is returning from Titus Gate. But if Tatiana were to be on it right now. Then that means we would be riding for nothing." Levi said.
"Don't worry. She wouldn't have left the gate yet I know it." Juna smiled
"I didn't see anyone on the bus that looked like her." Kurt added
"Levi, you can drop the act. We know you been testing us." Venti said with a grin on his face.
"It is fairly obvious, and I believe you know we're aware as well."
"Not bad all of you." Levi chuckled "All that training with me to increase your skills, sharpness and six senses really paid off. As your Class Assistant, I'm really proud of you."
"Hehe. Look at you, sounding like a parent." Balthus teased.
"Hold up. How can you even tell?" Hapi asked.
"Well, if you have training like us martial artist, you would understand." Yuri explained
"In any case, we're halfway to reach Titus Gate. I should know because I been here before." Venti pointed out. "Let us be off."
"Right." Levi nodded as they took off to the maid road.
"I must admit. I couldn't tell either." Constance grumbled.
"You know, as we go down this road, the scenery here is pretty nice." Hapi said
"I know right. I'm surprised that it's so close to the border." Juna agreed.
"But it wasn't pretty when the Imperial Army was storming through here in the Hundred Days War." Venti sighed.
'Uncle Zech' unit came here, too." Kurt thought. 'Back when the Orbal Shutdown hit four years ago.' He thought as they go the archway.
(BGM paused)
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Reinforcing Solders)
As they go through the archway, they all can see the gigantic gate standing before them.
"Whoa." Juna comment.
"I can see why they call this a Titan's Gate, it's huge!" Levi blinked
"Yep. This is where Tita and I enter Erebonia." Venti nodded
"Titus Gate, the border post between here and the Kingdom of Liberl." Altina said.
"It's even bigger than I imagined." Juna added.
"Well, the Empire did fight a war against Liberl fourteen years ago. But it was a one-sided invasion to be honest." Levi said.
"That's true." Kurt said as they look around. "It seems there are troops from the armored divisions here. And Look." He pointed at the rank. "Look at the rank of that emblem."
"If I recall... that's the first Armored Division."
"They were once in charge of the capital's perimeter defense." Altina added
"It must be something big that's brought them here." Juna said "Let's try and find Tatiana. Maybe she can tell us something that'll explain what's going on."
"If I remember right, there's also a rest area for civillains." Venti said as he look and spot it. "Ah, there it is." He said, until they got a message from Rex.
"Oh. It's from Rex." Levi look at it. "What..."
"What does it, say Levi?" Juna asked
"I'll put it on speaker." Levi said and then play the message.
"There is something I need to ask you and your students as a friend Levi. Can you guys help me take some of her responsibilities? You may already know, but she was in charge of the culture sections here. But now that she's dudenly gone missing, all of her works falling onto MY desk! Could you take pictures of any unusual places you come across and send them to me? If you're okay with it, I'll have a request for the first photo! I went over to Titus Gate just now and try and take some photos... but those uptight guards wouldn't let me get close enough."
'They're guards you idiot.' Everyone thought.
"Could you go and get an impactful photo of the Titus Gate from a low angel? P.S If you help me out, I'll give you guys something nice!"
"That lazy idiot..." Levi sighed. "Then again, Vivi did ask Rean to do this too."
"He sounds very distressed. I don't mind helping him if we can." Altina said.
"Hm, he seems nice, but he's kind of a stranger..." Juna said.
"That's Rex for you. However, I know he isn't a bad person. I'm sure he a lot on his place right now. Might as well help him." Levi said
"I still think it's weird. I hope he not having us take creepy photos."
"Let's hope that isn't the case Either." Hapi nodded as they begin to look for a place to take a camera until Venti found a good spot and then he took the picture.
"Okay. Got one. Here's hoping this photo is good." Venti said as he he call Rex.
"Hey. How's it hangin'?" Rex asked
"Good. We got the perfect photo you wanted."
"All right! Let me take a peek at the looks." He requested as Venti send it to him. "Whoa, not bad. Here's a lil' somethin' for your troubles." He said as send them a picture of Elise with her Bellossom and Tinkaton in her arms, while her Meganium and Metagross behind her.
"What the- is that a picture of Elise with her Pokemon?!" Levi asked as he look surprised
"Yeah. Top-quality stuff, no?"
"It is a well-taken picture, from an objective standpoint." Altina said with a deadpan look
"Hey isn't that Rean's little sister?" Hapi asked. "I remember her in the cornination. She's a cool girl."
"Indeed. She's such a graceful noble woman. I admire her." Constance chuckled.
"Reeex." Levi gave Rex a deadpan look. "How did you manage to take a picture of Elise? Do you know where she is?"
Then we heard a call.
"Sorry, got an urgent job." Rex replied. "Gotta be on my way. See ya later!"
"Hold it Re-" Then he hug up on Levi. "-x. That bastard hung up on me! Note to self. Tell Rean about this when we rescue him."
"Don't you think that's a bit much?" Venti sweatdrop.
"He doesn't seem to have ill intentions, at least." Kurt sighed
"Trust me. You don't know Rex as I do." Levi said with a deadpan look. "In any event. Let's head to the rest area." He said as they go to the rest area and they look around.
"I don't see Tatiana anywhere." Venti said.
"Let's look around and-huh?" Levi blink when he see a girl.
"Something up, Levi?" Juna asked.
"That girl over there... she looks... familiar." Levi rub his chin until he heard a big sighed. "Hm?" They turn their head and see a gentleman sitting on one of the tables.
"You feel okay there pal? That's a big sigh." Balthus said as they approached him.
"Er, uh, yeah, I'm fine. I'm sorry for worrying you. I'm Anton. I'm a tourist from Liberl." He introduce himself.
"Anton... Anton..." Levi rub his chin until he snapped his finger. "Wait... that Anton?!"
"Do I... know you?" He tilts his head. "Wait... come to think of it, you look awfully familiar."
"Well, it has been a year I guess. So what are you doing here?"
"Oh. I'm trying to enter Erebonia again. The progress has taken a long toll on me."
"Why would you try to come to the Empire when the situation is as it is?" Altina asked.
"Isn't the news about the conflict with Calvard reaching Liberl's ears?" Constance asked.
"Yeah... I know what I'm doing makes no sense at all." Anton stretched his hair as he smiled. "You see. I'm actually here to correspond with a special someone in the Empire. It's been about a year in a half since I met her. But lately, I haven't received any letters from her. The last one she wrote, she begged me to forget her. As if I could... I shook off my pal, Ricky, who was trying to stop me, and took off. I came across one of those huge thanks on the way, which scared the hell out of me."
"On the way? Do you mean the neutral zone between the two countries?" Altina asked
"I'm pretty sure there shouldn't be any tanks in that area, though." Juna said
"That's what I thought, too. Things are on edge at Haken Gate, too." Anton sighed. "I don't really get the feeling that Liberl and Erebonia are going to war."
"That does seem pretty concerning." Hapi said.
"But I do understand that you want to check on your special someone. I have someone like that too." Yuri said.
"Indeed." Altina nodded. "Though it would be best that you don't stay long."
"Yeah. but I'll be rooting for you!" Juna cheered.
"Aww, thanks. Don't worry about me though! I'll find out what happened to her!" Anton smiled. "It's nice to be reminded that there's still no shortage of kindness in Erebonia. That girl wearing the blue uniform also stopped to talk to me, girl."
"Girl in blue uniform?" Venti asked as that got their attention.
"Wait, by any chance does she have blond hair?" Juna asked as she slammed her hands on the desk.
"Yeah, that's her. Is she a friend of yours?" Anton asked.
"She is. Do you know where she went?" Kurt asked
"Well she was with one of the most beautiful girls I've ever seen from the counter over-" "Excuse me, You got a minute."
Then an Imperial Soldier approached Anton. "Anton, was it? Care to explain your reason for entry on this documentation form here? Just what are you getting at?"
"R-Reason?" Anton asked. "Why, I don't know what you're talking about, heh. Oh, could you be talking about the 'for love' part? I was merely being honest. Is there a problem with that?"
Class VII and Ashen Wolves anime face fell with the Soldier.
"Seriously? That's what you wrote pal?" Balthus sweatdrops with the others as they get back on their feet. "That isn't gonna help ya in any way when crossing the border."
"As the tall gentleman here said. That isn't going to help." The soldier agreed. "We have rules. We'll be taking you for secondary screening."
"What?! You can't be serious?!" Anton exclaimed
Then the soldier turns to the group.
"Are you traveling with him? I'm afraid I will have to ask you all to come with me, too." He said
"Hold on." Levi said. "We weren't traveling with him. We were just talking with him."
"Hmm, are you sure?"
"Why would I lie?" Levi sighed as he used magic as his eyes glow a bit, hypnotizing the soldier, unknown to everyone. "We heard him sigh and we were concerned for him. So we decided to talk with him. Nothing more."
"Hmm... you don't appear to be lying. My apologies then." Then the Soldier turn to Anton. "All right, come with me."
Anton blinked. "Huh?" The Imperial soldier pointed the direction and Anton was being dragged. "W-W-Wait. Whaaaat?! Please, noooooo!"
The group sweatdrop from the sight.
"Well that was awkward." Hapi said
"I feel sorry for that guy." Venti comment
"Dear me! You're here quicker than I expected." A noble voice spoke.
(BGM ended)
(Mario and Luigi Bowser's Inside Story ost - Have a Nice Talk)
She wears a pink and white dress comprised of many layers and decorated with floral patterns and hemmed with frills. She wears elbow-length opera gloves and has a pink bow in her hair.
"Earlier than expected? You were waiting for us?" Levi asked.
"Of course. Who else am I talking too?" The woman asked
"Wait... You look... familiar..." Levi examined the woman before he gasped. "Margarita?! Is that you?!"
"Why yes indeed! Long time no see, Levi! You have grown even more stunning since we've seen each other. But not as stunning as my dear Vincent. But yes, It is I, Margarita Dresden, heiress to the Dresden barony."
Levi sweatdrop. "Yep. It's definitely you Margarita."
"Levi, is she an acquaintance of yours?" Constance asked.
"Yep. Everyone, this is... as she introduces... Margarita Dresden. She's a formal schoolmate of mine back in the main campus two years ago."
"A pleasure to meet you, everyone. I take it the young students with you are the new Class VII I heard so much about?" Margarita asked.
"Yeah, since Rean is...absent, it's my duty to watch over them. We should find a place to sit and discuss the situation."
"Oh, of course, follow me!" Margarita said as they began to take a table next to a Lickilcky. "Lickicky, dear~ I brought guests."
"Haaan!"
"Is this your Pokemon?" Levi asked
"Why indeed! Isn't he just precious? He is one of be daring Pokemon friends~" Margarita responded as she nuzzled her Pokemon. "Ah, but I know why you're here." She said as she sit down. "It's about what happened back in the capital no?"
"That's right." Levi answered as they all sit down. "I wasn't expecting you to be here. So that girl I saw earlier was you."
"Ohohoh. It indeed it was. I was waiting for you to arrived."
"But how did you know we were going to be here?"
"With an informant of mine. Ever since what happened back in Heimdallr and the Great Twilight is upon us... All of us back in the academy days have gathered a meeting to discuss what to do now. After the discussion, we begin to make our own move." Margarita explained
"Ah. So the others who graduated with Rean are making their move too. Along with the other Alumni." Levi mused
"And everyone who's gone missing- the other graduates?" Juna added
"So Vivi, Mint, Linde, and and the others disappeared too."
"Indeed. You can add Ferris and Patrick to that little list of yours." Margarita replied. "That's why we have split up into different regions to collect any information on them that we can. The information exchange with Tatiana is a part of that."
"I see." Kurt said.
"S-So Tatiana's connection was Margarita!" Juna replied
"Yes, our families have long been friends." Margarita smiled but then she frown. "After exchanging information, she returned to Parm, but..."
"But?" Altina asked
"Is everything okay?" Juna asked
"Yes, it's just... she had this look on her face like something else was on her find." Margarita answered. "It seems she met someone she thought she knew on her way here. She said that it was a friend who had been in the same club as her."
"What?" Levi eye widen with the other. "The other member of the Literature Club? The only other member of that club is..."
"ASH!" New Class VII yelled
"Shhh! Keep your voices down!" Alsin shushed them as they covered their mouth.
"So Ash is here...thanks for that, Margarita. We need to go and follow them." Levi said
"Very well, take wonderful care of yourself and the new class, Levi." She replied. "And should you ever meet Ferris's brother in person, let him know that my heart is still waiting for him."
"R-Right."
"Oh, before you go." Margarita turn to Altina. "You're name is Altina? As in Altina Orion, correct? Your sister Millium was one of my dearest friends."
"She was?" Altina asked, looking sad, just as Margarita is.
"Yes... I'm truly sorry for what happened to her. Millium told me so much about you, you know. She was always so excited to share stories about her adorable little sister. We were members of the cooking club. She was such a bold cook." She let out a soft smile. "Marching to the beat of no one's drum but her own. She showed me the real possibilities food had to offer."
"By 'possibilities'... you don't mean... the "unique" flavor... do you?" Levi asked as he shivered.
"I'm afraid to even ask." Venti sweatdrop.
"Ohohoh! That girl followed her heart in life and cooking alike." Margarita giggled before she frown. "But I wish I could have fulfilled the promise I made to her..."
"What promise?" Altina asked.
"As fellow members of the Cooking Club, we promised that we would work together to make a dish the likes of which no one has ever tasted! But with things as they are now, it may no longer be possible to do so..."
"Oh Margarita..." Levi look down.
"Haah..." Margarita's Lickitung look sad.
"Millium really said that?" Altina asked, looking sad before she thought for a moment before she looked serious. "Um... Margarita... Is there anything I can do to help you keep that promise?"
"Altina..." Venti trailed off.
"You would really do that?" Margarita asked.
"Of course. I know how much Millium means to you. I want to help to make sure her promise to you be completed. As she's still here with us." Altina said with determination.
"Altina..." Levi said with a smile on his face.
"Oh Altina..." Margarita wipe her tears. "Your words move my heart. Perhaps this is Aidios telling me that I should see Millium's dream to its completion. And if that's the case, then that is exactly what I will do!" She smiled. "From here on our, would you be willing to bring me any peculiar dishes you make?"
"Peculiar dishes?"
"As in strange meals, you make when something goes wrong when you cook." Levi explain.
"You seriously eat them?" Constance asked in surprise.
"Indeed! I'm sure dining on the unusual dishes you've made will be just the inspiration I need." Margarita nodded. "It's only a matter of time before I conceive and concoct a meal that no one has ever dreamed of!"
"That does stand to reason." Altina said. "Understood. We'll bring you any peculiar dishes we accidentally make."
"I'm so excited to get started!"
"Come to think of it. I don't think we visit the Inn to ask about a recipe, did we?" Levi asked.
"Oh. I actually went there and copy it down." Hapi said.
"When did you do that?"
"I got a bit hungry on the way so I teleported myself there. It was nice. I have the recipe on hand. You can use it to fulfill Mimi's dream." Hapi smiled.
"Thank you, Hapi." Altina nodded. "I should get started."
"You should also ask the staff lounge about any recipes you can freely make. I'm sure they won't mind." Levi added
"Understood. Be right back." Altina said as she went to talk to the staff.
"Never thought Ash would be around in Sutherland." Levi said
"The Hamel tragedy fourteen years ago had been buried in the Empire's shadows and forgotten." Kurt said.
"You mentioned that name before. It is the name of the town Ash is from?" Yuri asked.
"Yeah. But talking about it here isn't a good idea." Levi told him
"We haven't seen him since the Emperor was shot." Juna added. "Hard to believe he's somewhere that close."
"Let's not forget the Singularity too. We haven't found a lead yet." Venti added. "Still... we need to find him."
"You're right, we need to hear what happened then directly from Ash." Kurt nodded. "It could set him free, even if we're the only ones who forgive him for what he's done."
"And he's part of Class VII. He's our classmate regardless." Venti nodded "Let us hurry to Hamel."
"You can count on us too." Yuri nodded along with the Ashen Wolves. "We may know Ash for a little while. But I believe in his innocents as well. He may be a bad boy, but his head is in the right place."
"Perhaps it is fate that brought us here." Constance said.
"Yeah. He's a fellow wolf. We can't leave him behind." Balthis said
"Yeah. If he's in trouble, then we need to help him in any we can." Hapi nodded
"Not sure what you mean by "fellow wolf" but you're right." Levi nodded as Altina got back.
"I'm back and got another recipe. Are we ready to go?" Altina asked
"Yeah. Want to say goodbye to Margarita?"
"Yes." Altina nodded, turning to her. "Margarita. Please wait for me while I prepare much Peculiar dishes."
"Of course. Take all the time in the world. And please. Do be careful out there." Margarita nodded as they took off to Hamel.
Unknown to them, two small robots were listening in and nodded and teleported away.
Ash is nearby and now the next place is Hamel. But now who are those robots? Bad feeling is coming...