August 12, 1206 Saturday
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Now, Things To Do)
"Okay, guys. I'll be gone for a while to search for clues about Tio-tot whereabouts." Randy said.
"Same with me. I need to look for Towa." Angelica nodded.
"Okay, Levi. Take care of your students. They're in your care now as you said." Alisa stated
"Grandmother, try not to be too hard on them." Emma added
"Of course. You can count on me." Levi wink.
"Oh, worry not. I plan to rough them up just enough to get them ready." Roselia smirked. "After all, Levi has roughed Venti who was the only New Class VII who was awake for the past two weeks."
"Hey, don't throw me under the bus here!" Venti sighed as Juna sighed.
"Hey, cheer up guys." Levi said to them. "I know you guys are sad that you couldn't go. But you can still catch up to them."
"Levi's right. There's no need to be so down. You'll catch up to us before you know it." Laura nodded
"Besides, while you're doing your training, we'll be gathering intel with our friends and your schoolmates." Machias added
"We'll look for info on Rean, the mobilization law...uhh, anything that might come in handy." Elliot smiled
"Come join us once you're ready." Fie replied
"We've got a touch mission ahead." Sara stated. "We're gonna need all hands on deck."
"Oh yeah! Some of us will accompany you as well on your journey, just so you know." Mario added.
"But some of us will be outside of Erebonia for the time being." Crow added. "But make no mistake, that we'll come back to help."
"Right. Keep your chin up everyone." Mona nodded.
"Understood. I promise, we won't be far behind you." Kurt nodded as he place his hand to his chest
"Good luck. And please, be careful." Altina said.
"Don't do anything crazy... at least not without us!" Juna added
"Yeah, after all, we're all in this together." Venti wink.
"Right." Gaius nodded. "Then until we meet again, may the wind and the Goddess be with you."
"Overcome whatever ordeals await you and come find us!" Jusis added
"Right!" The new Class VII nodded.
The teleportation stone then activated and then teleported the Old Class VII, Mario, Luigi, Ragna, the Kingdom Hearts crew, and Fighters like Samus, Falcon, Snake, Cloud, Aerith, Tifa, Yuffie, Leon, Ryu, Ken, Terry, and Pyra. Others like Annette, Ingrid, Felix, Dorothea, Petra, Avery, Ashe, and Ignatz have also joined the party. Team Natsu plans to head back to Fiore for the time being.
"All right everyone. Once you all get prepared, I will be waiting out here. I will lead you to the training ground." Roselia said.
"Training Ground?" Venti asked
"It's a place where Wandering Witches begin their training before wandering to the outside world. A labyrinth of ordeals so to speak." Levi explain. "I often train along with Venti."
"Yep. For the past two weeks while you were all resting, I was forced to take to the training ground because Levi insisted that I continue."
"Which is why it was wise of him to drag you into the Training ground." Roselia said. "With that said. Go gather your weapons from Gandolf's shop. He should have them polished by now."
The Juna and Kurt, minus Altina and Venti made their way to Gandolf's Workshop which a few minutes have passed and they return with their weapons in hand.
"Got them!" Juna said with her Gunbreakers in her hand. "Man, they look good as new!"
"Indeed. My sword seem to have sharpened quite a bit." Kurt nodded.
"It's always good to take good care of your weapons." Levi nodded. "Now that you got your weapons, we're ready Roselia."
"Good." Roselia nodded. "Follow me into the forest." She said and then began to use the teleportation stone.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Eryn, the Hidden Village)
Roselia and New Class VII arrived at a mystical forest.
"Whoa... are we in a forest?" Juna asked
"Correct. This forest serves as a sort of buffer zone between the Hexen Clan and the Great Isthmian Forest. If you can sense it, you can feel the Higher elements are active here." Roselia explained. "Now, follow me." She said as she begin to guide them through the forest through a fork in the road but go forward until they see a large ruin building. "And here we are."
"S-so, this is it?" Juna asked.
Kurt nodded. "Indeed. The Hexen Clan's labyrinth of ordeals."
"That it is." Roselia clarified. "As I told you yesterday, your long rest has left you weak. if you remain out of shape, you will find yourself in mortal danger with every battle that lies ahead."
"I do feel like I'm weaker than before." Altina said.
"I still feel kind of bad that we couldn't head out with the others though." Juna added.
"I know you guys are feeling a little left out. But as I said earlier, you'll catch up to them. As Rose said earlier, you guys have been sleeping for the past two weeks. Your body is not once what it once was." Levi said.
"All right, then. Time to figure out just how much weaker we've gotten."
"So our objective is to enter the labyrinth and begin exploring." Altina confirmed.
"Yes." Roselia said. "Once you have fought off the vicious monsters in your path and made your way to the utmost depths of the labyrinth, that will be it...for today. Sullivan, be sure to lead them well."
"Of course." Levi nodded. "I'll use the experience I had back then to lead them well. And once you all get your strength back, we'll catch on to everyone else."
"Thanks, Levi." Juna smiled.
"We'll do our very best." Altina added.
Kurt nodded. "We appreciate you guiding us."
"We'll be counting on you, you are our second in command." Venti added
Roselia stood in front of us. "Good, it sounds like you are ready then. You stand before the grounds where witches of the Hexen Clan who wish to venture outside the village must first prove their worth. Saint-Gral Labyrinth. I wish you all good luck."
(BGM ended)
"Thanks Rose. Okay everyone, let's go." Levi said as New Class VII nodded as they go into the labyrinth.
Once they go in, Roselia teleported herself away.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Saint-Gral Labyrinth)
New Class VII then enter the Labyrinth where they can see magic crystals around the walls, and the ceiling, adding a flare of magic.
"Woah..." Juna whispered.
"What an eerie place." Kurt said.
"As if the other places we been through wasn't errie as you claim." Levi chuckled.
"I guess that's true. Like the Keyblade Graveyard is one thing." Venti said. "Me, Levi and the Old Class VII came in here before."
"Right. This is also a good place to train your Pokemon. In fact, I bet they're itchin' for some actions."
"Oh yeah! In that case!" Juna pull out her Pokeball. "Let's go Quaxwell!"
"Archen, let's go!" Altina throw out her Pokeball.
"Prinplup, I choose you!" Kurt throw his Pokeball.
"Come on out Spragato!" Venti throw out their Pokeball and each came out their Pokeball.
"All right, good! Juna, Kurt, Altina. I want you to think of this as a magical version of the Einhel Keep. There will be monsters, and possible Heartless roaming around as we explore. Don't hesitate to ask for help. Because you will certainly need it." Levi said.
"Wait, you think we've gotten THAT weak, don't you?" Juna asked
"Unfortunately, yes." Levi fold his arm. "Resting in bed for the past two weeks cause a great deal of change to your body. Your muscles have gotten soft, as well as your agility, body instinct, stamina, durability, awareness, and reflexes. I may be the type who likes to laugh... a lot." He sweatdrops before shaking his head and looking serious. "But this is no joking matter. If you want to prove me wrong, be my guest. Speaking off, you'll also need these." Levi pulled out the Master Quartzs. "Your Master Quartz."
"Did those fall out from our ARCUSes?" Kurt asked.
"Yep. None of you even notice it, which proves my point. The Master Quartz isn't the only thing we've dropped. The other quartz we've made and got as well as our accessories are also gone back at the Gral."
"For real!?" Juna gasped.
"Yeah... It's as Levi said..." Venti sighed. "All the Quartz I had installed my ARCUS as well as the accessories I wore are gone during the Gral."
"The distortion took them away. So we have to start from scratch. Don't forget to equip them." Levi said.
"...Roger." Altina pull out her ARCUS Alpha along with Kurt and Juna and open the hatch.
"No way... you're right..." Juna grumbled.
"How did we not notice?" Kurt muttered as they equip their master quartz into their ARCUS Alpha and they all felt a slight aura of power.
'Ugh… I thought you were just joking earlier…" Juna muttered
"But we truly are weaker now than we were at the Gral.." Kurt sighed.
"Yes, it is as you said about misplaced the rest of our quartz and accessories." Altina added.
"Aww, we really do have to start again from scratch…" Venti frown "All that hard work...gone..." He then realized something. "Wait... don't we have that shared inventory?" He asked, causing Kurt, Juna and Altina to look surprised.
"Ah, I was wondering one of you will bring it up." Levi chuckled. "Yes, fortunately, the stuff we've got, bought, from our travels and adventures are still there in the inventory, thanks to the Professor's invention. That includes the items, spare quartzs, accessories and other supplies we got from our travels."
"Are you trying to give us a heart attack!?" Juna yelled. "Why didn't you tell us?"
"I wanted to test you. Besides, we were fortunate enough that Professor E. Gadd develop unit into our ARCUS Alpha units. Remember, it's on the menu on the party app."
"In that case, shouldn't we look into our inventory and bring out our quartz?" Kurt asked.
"It's fine by me. However, just so you'll know, it doesn't change the outcome of your body just yet."
"Oh... you do have a point..." Juna grumbled.
"I know it's frustrating to you all. But that's why you're going to get your strength back. We'll just take it nice and easy until you're back to your usual selves." Levi said with a smile. "But I should also discuss about your brave orders."
"Huh? Why?" Juna asked
"It shouldn't be a problem. Our ARCUSes are fully functional." Kurt said
"About that. Your body is not the only thing that chance. You should see for yourselves and you'll see what I mean." Levi stated
"Well, whatever you throw at us, we can handle it!" Juna cheered
"I agree." Altina nodded
"Me too!" Venti nodded
"Let's get started, then." Kurt nodded
"Right. Just so you know. I will also tell you some battle tips." Levi turn to the orbment charging stations. "As you know, there's an orbment charging station are installed in places at the entrance to a dungeon or in places. As for how it was installed, either someone built it and installed it here or some other force materialized it. Either way, remember that if you need a break, come back here and it will charge you up. With that said, let's go, everyone!" Levi smirked as he got into a commanding position.
"RIGHT!" New Class VII said in unison as they go into the labyrinth.
As they go in there are forks in the road.
"There are so many doors here... Which one do we go?" Juna asked.
"Hmm..." Venti look at one of the doors and approach one... and it rise up. "Oh!" Venti said as there is a treasure chest. "Look a treasure chest!"
"Finder keepers as they say." Levi said as they open the chest and obtain Teara Balm, EP Charge II and Celestrial Balm. "Ah some Teara Blam, EP Charge II and a Celestial Balm. Remember to keep them into your inventory. Remember, if you need it, always thought of it, and your invitory will place it in your pocket for you to use."
"Understood. We best remember that as well do. Speaking off. Don't we have an interactive map?" Altina asked.
"Oh that's right. If I recall, there are certain quartz that can reveal things in the interact map. Such as monsters and treasures." Kurt recalled.
"Indeed. I see you're remembering things as we do back in any adventures and travels. But right now, this is your training. You can place in those quartz after you regain your strength." Levi told them.
"Got it." Venti nodded as they explore the labyrinth and spotted another treasure chest.
"Oh! Another one!" Juna said as she opened it and reveal a silver chain. "Ooh nice!" She put it in her pocket and continue as one of the labyrinth doors rose up and they walk the hallways and spotted monsters. "Oh!"
"There's one of the monsters of the labyrinths. Fiends." Venti said.
"They're actually the weakest type in this place. However, don't get cocky. Even they can be difficult even for beginners." Levi told them.
"Hm, we should exercise caution." Altina advised.
"Good idea. We're in phase one of the labyrinth, so it suppresses the higher elements. Even so, you should be able to deal with opponents like them as long you fire up the combat links and the brave orders."
"I see."
"We should get some training in so we can familiarize ourselves with these combat tactics." Kurt advised
"Yeah, good idea!" Juna nodded as she, Kurt, Altina and Venti brought out their weapons. "Let's do this! Fire up combat links!" She said as the students form combat links and ran toward the monster.
The Mizerambler spotted them and let out a screech as two Homing Molds join the fight. Juna swing her gunbreakers at the Mizerabler but it block her attack and then slash her with the scythe as the Homing Molds used it's tentales to attack Kurt and Altina. The two dodged and counter by stabbing the tentacles as Altina swipe with Claiomh Solais and Kurt slash the other Homing Molds.
"Break through! Sludgehammer!" Juna activated her Brave Order and buff the group. however, they notice the change. "Huh? The heck?"
"Don't get distracted!" Levi yelled to get them focus.
The Holming Molds tentacle slash Kurt as the other one spew out it's ozz onto Altina before she jump back. Venti shoot the Homing Bold for Altina to follow up with a slam downward while the Mizerabler spin slash Juna but she block it and then kick it in the face to unbalance it and Kurt finish it off by impaling its back, causing it to disappeared as the two Homing Molds fire Ooz toward them. Altina form a barrier and then counter by using her Bomb Magic Landmine, causing both of them to go on Break State and then destroyed, dropping sepiths.
And then they begin to dive into their first battle after two weeks of sleep.
"That went all right, but still..." Juna paused.
"Yes. The power of our Orders was underwhelming, to say the least." Kurt said.
Altina hummed. "So it wasn't my imagination."
"Our orders have gotten weaker…" Venti muttered.
"I did warn you guys." Levi said. "Even your brave orders have been weaken."
"But why did our Orders get weaker?" Juna asked. "They've got nothing to do with our physical strength. Are you affected, too, Levi?"
"Yeah, even I'm affected. But not just me. The Old Class VII, The Mario Bros, Sora and the others, Ragna, and many people within Smash Bros. Except for Randy and Angelica. Rose thinks it has something to do with Rean's curse."
"His curse is affecting us and them?" Altina asked, looking surprised.
"That...is fairly inconvenient." Kurt said. "But why has it affected us and them? Except for Lady Angelica and Instructor Randolph."
"Palutena has been looking into it. Apparently, it's affecting those who are closest to Rean's heart. In other words, his bonds."
"His bonds?" Altina asked.
"Yes. Don't get me wrong. He cherishes both Randy and Angelica as his good friends and can trust them. However, it has something to do with Valimar and his ability with the secondary contractors." Levi explained.
"Ah. So it's mostly got to do with Valimar then." Juna said quietly.
"Right. It's quite funny that my power can repel the curse like it did with Ash." I pounder "And somehow it affected my orders."
"That is weird." Venti nodded.
"With that said, let's go back to recover your strength. You guys can do it. I know you can." Levi smiled
"You're right. Thanks." Kurt nodded as they walked through another narrow hallway and turned left to enter another area where a strange-looking monster was in the middle.
"A new type of field?" Kurt asked.
"I don't like the look of it." Altina said.
"Yeah, we better be careful!" Juna added. "This may be the best time to use my Gunner mode."
"Good idea. Some of the weapons we use have many types to harm our opponents that can be weak too. It's a mechanism with combat links. There are Slash which works on soft enemies like plants, Pierce which work on large enemies such as fish monsters, Trust which is shooting attacks to subdue quick enemies. Whether its avians, beasts, or bugs, any hard enemies with a blind spot. And finally, Strike leaves a destructive impact on hard-shelled insects and large beasts. Altina can scan them or use the scan item or whatever and reveal it's weakness." Levi explained.
"Got it. Let's do this!" Juna nodded as they brought out their weapons charge toward the monsters at Juna started shooting on the Shaman to catch it off guard and then proceed in battle as the Shaman used magic to summon Homing Molds to join the battle.
Juna and Venti begin to shot toward the Shaman which has a difficult time dodging while Just swing his Twin Blades and perform with grace as Levi skillfully slash the Homing Mold and slashing and impaling them. Altina launch slashes with Claiomh Solais as the Homing Molds headcharge toward Altina, but her Archen used Dragon Breath attack on them, giving Altina the opening attack as Quaxwell used Low Sweep on the Shaman to knock him toward Juna for her to deal the finishing blow, Primplup used Metal Claw on the Homing Molds to knock them back as Floragato used Quick Attack to round up the Homing Molds and then Venti used his craft: Divine Marksmanship 2 and shoot several wind arrows and K.O all of them as they drop a consider amount of Sepiths and other items.
"Not Bad, huh?" Juna asked the others with a smile.
"We're doing better now that we've been at this for a while." Altina answered with a smile.
"Let's keep the momentum going!" Kurt advised
"Yep! We have a long way to go!" Venti cheered
"That the spirit you guys." Levi wink. "It's only a warm-up, but keep that fire up."
New Class VII begin to climb up the stairs as Kurt notice a treasure chest which he approaches and open it, taking the Seven Sepiths which is 50 each. He place the Sepiths into the Sepith sack in the invatory where it automatically scores each one separately and even reveal how many there are in total. The group made their way to the third area where they took a left turn to a small corridor and see a red treasure chest and Altina open it and take the HP 2 quart.
"Oh! It's a quart." Altina said.
"Which one of us should use it?" Kurt asked.
"Well since Allie found it, why don't you?" Juna suggest
"If you don't mind, okay." Altina said as she opened her ARCUS hatch and equip the HP 2 and reveal what it is. "Oh! it's an HP 2."
"Nice!" Venti said as they walk back as they go down the stairs where they encountered a large monster as it let out a roar as it wander around.
"Caution, everyone, That's a strong monster we encounter." I warned. "It will prove more of a challenge than all the monsters we've faced. Don't hold back! Use arts, crafts, and Orders and give it everything you got! That includes combat link! And don't forget to break them first."
"Heh, my Order's just the thing for that." Juna smirked
"We should also use Rush and Burst, right?" Venti asked
"High-level link attacks have a better chance of inflicting Breaks." Altina recalled
"Well done. Looks like you don't need me to tell you that." Levi wink. "But you're right. Also, feel free to use my Orders too. Use it when you need too."
"Heehee, we got it!" Juna nodded
"After all, Juna's Order can break our foes more quickly. Mine can only slow down the enemy's movement while we launch endless assaults." Kurt said
"Mine can repel all form of attacks. And Venti brave order can evade attacks more easily." Altina added
"And I have two brave orders. One to increase our damage and the other can make us go first to strike. Although the Break effect is very weak compare to Juna." Levi nodded. "With that said, readied yourself for a tough fight. Strong monsters like that takes time to defeat, but the experience is greatly rewarding." He turn to the monster. "Is everyone ready?" He asked as they nodded. "Then let's we strike!"
Levi and the New Class VII then charge toward the strong monsters as it notice them. It let out a roar for Homing Molds to join the fight. The Homing Molds launch their pointy tentacles attacks onto the group but they dodged as the Rubbletroll shoot a fire breath onto Altina, but Archen fire Dragon Breath to counter it.
"BreakThrough! Sludgehammer!" Juna activated her Brave Order and then used the Combat Art Form: Lighting Fist where she launches the Rubbertroll into the air with a lighting punch, manifesting lighting near around it to strike the other monsters if they were close, leap into the air, punching the Rubbertroll and then she dive down with a shockwave to stun it, and the other monsters as Kurt follow up swinging his arms rapidly and slashed the monsters.
Altina and Claimn Solais swung their arms at the Homing Molds as one of them launched its tentacles to grab Claiomh Solais until Archen used Leer to stun the monster to lower it's defense stat and Venti shot at it as Altina got the opening to use her Bomb Magic to exploded on it. The Rubbertroll got back on it's feet and roared at the group as it's thunderous roar harmed them before it punched Juna. Juna was pushed back and then she used her craft: Brave Smash as the monster block the attack by using his arm as a shield Kurt ran up to the monster and slashed him, but the arms were sturdy enough to block his attack too until it swipe his arm and knock Kurt back. Prinplup used Peak on it as the Rubbertroll grabbed him and throw him back at Kurt as he got back on his feet, but only to be slammed on the floor again.
"Why you!" Juna growled as she used her combat Art: Frozen Fist to strike through, freezing the monster and then launch some bash on it, knocking it on the floor.
Altina ran up to the Homing Molds as it shoot ooz as her as she dodge and then Claimn Solais appear and swing her arms down for a slam and then swing her arms for a slash. The Rubbertroll grabbed a piece of the earth and throw it at Altina who backflip and Claiomh Solais eyes blink and fire laser at him as Levi leap over the monsters, then ran toward one of the Homing Molds and slash them, then swirl his Glaive to impale one and slash the other in a spin slash. Venti shoot one arrow to each monster as Quaxwell used Water Pulse with Floragato used Magical Leaf to strike them. Kurt used his craft: Rain Slash 2 and Break the monsters and Juna used her Craft: Cross Break to break the Rubber Troll.
"NOW!" Juna yelled as everyone launch a Burst attack on the monsters and they all turn to purple mist upon defeat.
"Phew, the danger's been dealt with." Kurt said.
"Yeah, but enemies like that used to be a piece of cake for us." Juna added.
Altina nodded. "Yes. It appears we will need to 'play catch-up'. It is quite aggravating to think about all the training we will need just to return to how we were before."
"Well, like I said earlier. We'll just have to take it nice and easy until you're back to your usual selves." Levi assured. "Anyways, it looks like you're all warmed up now, so let's keep up until we reach the end. I'll leave the decisions to you guys. Takedown the enemies however you want."
Juna giggled. "Thanks, Levi!" she said as they go to the large hallway where they encounter pillars that block their ways. and notice that the pillars are cracked.
Kurt hummed "These pillars are to be cracked."
"Leave it to me. I'll call Claomh Solais." Altina said
"Thanks, Allie." Juna smiled "I can handle it, but you are probably more efficient, haha."
"Like I said earlier with the monsters, we all have different weapons types that are efficient." Levi nodded. "Slash, Trust, Pierce, and Strike efficient. Juna, you have two sets of weapons. One for Trust and Strike. Your gunner form is Trust and Pierce. Kurt, you have Slash and Trust. Altina, you have a Slash and Strike. Venti, you have Trust and Pierce. While I have Slash, Trust, and Pierce. Each of different levels rating. So go wild Altina."
Altina nodded and use her combat shell and it easily destroyed them and cleared a path and they continue onwards. They encounter more monsters along the way but they soon take them on to gain more experience in battle. They turn left where they come across a area where they spotted a treasure chest near a group of monsters. They take them head on as Juna bash, Altina, Levi and Kurt slashes and Venti shoot from the distance before one of the monsters charge to attack him, only for him to combat back with his strikes and reflexes. They open the chest and put away a Spirit Incense.
"A Spirit Incense! This can really come in handy for all of us." Levi told them as they continue onward by going up the stairs, take a right turn to enter a corridor where they go down stairs, break a few pillar and take down another powerful monster and its group.
They found another treasure chest as they open it and reveal a Proxy Puppet and put it into their inventory. They walk to the corridor where they encounter several monsters wondering around a small room and took them on before finishing them.
"Phew, that was quite the workout." Juna wipe her forehead.
"Indeed. One way of monsters after the other." Kurt said.
"But on the bright side, it did help us grow, don't you think?" Venti asked.
"Right. Let's keep going further." Altina nodded as they walk to the Labyrinths depths where the atmosphere feels different.
"Oh? Could this be the depth of the labyrinth?" Juna asked as they spotted an Orbment charging station.
"Considering there is an Orbment charging station, I say we are." Kurt nodded.
"Who's feeling tired right now?" Levi asked.
"I am, kinda." Juna raised her hand.
"I'm also feeling a little worn out." Altina admitted.
"In that case, let's take a small break here. Go place your ARCUS Alpha in the charging station and we'll rest up here before going further." Levi said as the students nodded and place their ARCUS units into the charging station and it begin to activate.
"Hey Quaxwell, how are you feeling? You feeling okay?" Juna asked.
"Quaxwell quax." Juna's Quaxwell nodded
"I'm sorry that I worry that I worry you Prinplup, Thanks for sticking with me." Kurt smiled
"Prinplup prin." Kurt's Prinplup smiled
"You too Archen. I'm sure I worried you a lot." Altina said.
"Arch!" Altina's Archen turn his head and let out a hmph.
"Oh is that right?" Altina asked, looking a little annoyed.
"Aha..." Venti sweatdrop along with Floragato. "But you look pretty good yourself, right Floragato?"
"Flora." Venti's Floragato replied with a cheeky grin until they all heard a ding.
"That means it's done." Levi said as he pick up his ARCUS unit. "Shall we?" He asked as the others pick up their ARCUS units and walk up the stairs to the depths where someone awaits them.
"Well, you certainly took your time. Must you keep a lady waiting?" A voice asked as it reveal to be Rachel who is drinking tea with her chair and table.
"Rachel?" Juna look surprised.
"What are you doing here?" Kurt asked
"Strange. I thought Rose would be here first. I didn't expect it would be you." Levi admitted
"Oh. I thought I should spice things up a bit." Roselia said as she appeared next.
"Spice things up? What do you mean by that?" Juna asked
"Levi, What marks would you give them?" Roselia asked, ignoring Juna's question
Levi turn to the students "Well they're all still a little rusty. However, they have regained some part of their strength. They earn a passable mark for the moment. I think they're ready for the final test."
Then the four look surprised as they turn to Rose.
"You can't be serious." Kurt said.
"W-Wait, when you said you want to spice things up... you don't mean..."
(BGM ended)
Roselia smirked and she brought out her staff as Rachel made her tea disappeared and she hop off her chair and her chair and table transform into her familiar, Gii and Nago.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Seductive Sudder)
"Indeed. We shall be your final exam." Rachel wave her arm as a black cape appeared. "For I, Rachel Alucard, Maiden of the rose, a vampire who wish to observe this world, and secure it's future."
"And I, Crimson Roselia, last of the True Ancestors and elder of the Hexen Clan herself. We wish to see the limit of your power. And then...what lies beyond it!" Rose said as her Staff tap the ground, then she unleashes her magical red aura as Rachel was surrounded by a wind with rose petals.. "Rise to the level of your predecessors, so that you may reclaim your lost instructor!"
"We'll do just that!" Kurt said as he and the others draw out our weapons.
"That was our intention from the start!" Altina said.
"And train for that as well." Venti added
"Let's go, guys! Come on, Levi, you too!" Juna said.
"You got it, but let me warn you— Both Roselia and Rachel are both extremely powerful opponents. While I wasn't expecting Rachel to involve herself, do not let your guard down around them! Stay vigalent and fight them with Full Force!" Levi informed.
Rachel and Roselia form combat links.
"Now, come at us with everything you had!" Roselia command
The Vampire Duo
Elder of the Hexen Clan - Roselia Milstein
Queen of Rose - Rachel Alucard
Juna form a link with Kurt and Altina form a link with Venti as Juna form a Pokemon link with her Quaxwell, Kurt with his Prinplup, Altina with Archen and Venti with Floragato.
Roselia form a combat link with Rachel.
Rachel was the first to attack by summoning homing shots toward the group as it exploded near the as they covered themselves and then they charge toward the two Vampires. Roselia throw magic projections at them as Altina block and Venti shoot his arrow toward Rachel, but she block it with her umbrella as Levi dash toward the vampires and slashes them. Rachel dodged gracefully while Roselia blocked with her staff as she cast lighting onto Levi who backflipped and then he launched a combo slash onto Rachel as she pushed back but then summoned several raser rose petals to strike Levi. Juna swung her Gunbreakers toward Roselia as she blocked with her staff and then generated a force field to knock Juna back as Kurt dash toward Roselia and twin slash her. Roselia recovered as she smirked.
"I do believe I'll help myself." Roselia then use her craft: Bloody Fang as a red claw appeared on her hand and launch it toward Kurt and struck him, draining him as it rose into the air, forming a sphere of blood that shine and rain onto her and Rachel, healing them "Hehe. How refreshing."
"Ngh, I wasn't expecting to feel drained..." Kurt groaned
"Tempest Dawhlia." Rachel snap her fingers as a hurricane appeared that struck the group and then they got hit by debris. "Now you're mine." Rachel quietly quoted for Roselia to follow up an attack as she wipe attack onto Juna.
Venti channel his magic and launch several wind blades toward the vampires as both of them split up before Altina used her Bomb Magic by swing her arms and create an explosion to strike them. Levi used Penetrate Hurl onto Roselia as Quaxwell used Aquajet to knock Roselia back and Juna follow up by bashing her on Roselia's cheek, pushing her. Roselia summon red energy and launch several projections attack toward Juna and the others.
"Dance as one! Bard's Waltz" Venti activated his Brave order as the group managed to dodge Roselia's attack as Altina ran toward Rachal with Claiomh Solais and slash her, but Rachel block it with her hand and then used her magic to blow Altina away.
Kurt ran toward Rachel to slash her. Rachel easily block the attack and counter attack by summing her wind magic, but Thanks to Vent's Brave Order, he dodge nad counterattack by slashing Rachel, dealing ton of damage. Rachel wave her arm to summon a tornado which Kurt jump back as Venti charge his arrow and launch them toward Rachel. Rachel took the hit as Altina swing Glaiomh Solais and struck her. Claiomh Solais then fire laser onto Rachel and Archen used Ancient Power onto Rachel and Roselia. Floragato used Seed Bomb onto Roselia as the smoke covered her vision and Primplup used Metal Claw on her.
"Ngh!" Roselia grunted. "Cheeky Pokemon!" Roselia then wave her arm and summon several red magic javalin and launch them toward Primplup.
"Primpluup!" Kurt's Primplup took the damaged as Venti's Brave Order has reach it's end as he then recovered.
"Take this!" Kurt used his craft: Twilit Blade 2 onto Roselia which she block with her magic. Roselia then cast her magic as several mini-fireballs rain down from above.
Levi swirl his lance to form a tornado to repel the fireballs and then uses Primondal Burst onto Rachel and Roselia and stunt them.
"Fight as one! Angel Valor!" Levi use his Brave Order to increase himself and New Class VII strength, and their Pokemon.
Rachel flew toward Levi where launch magic slash at him but he block as they both strike and block gracefully until Rachel jump into the air and start spinning and slashing Levi before she summon a small whirlwind to toss Levi into the air and then shoot magic projections at him. Levi managed tor recovered as he landed and dash to strike her, but Rachel shield herself with an electrical chair which shock Levi and Roselia shoot a beam of magic to knock Levi back. Levi was knock to the ground before he recovered as Juna fire several bullets toward the Vampire Duo. Rachel used her magic to repel the bullets as Altina used her Bomb Magic, Hellzone as several energy sphere were launch around them and then exploded. Venti used his Craft: Stormeye 2 as he charge his arrow, released it and form a formeye to suck Rachel and Roselia in and strike them as Altina launch a powerful swing from Claiomh Solais.
Roselia summon two magic circles and fire beams of magic to separate the part as Rachel then used magic to summon several rose vines to launch them, capture each one and strike them with the thorns.
"Roselia, if you would?" Rachel asked as her combat link with Roselia glow brightly.
"Very well." Roselia wave her staff as she summon four magic circles above them and each one rain down crimson fire and projections that exploded while Rachel spread her arms as she was surrounded by wind and cross her arms together and launch Class VII into the air with Razer wind and then form into a tornado, striking them before it slammed it self, dissolving them before it disappeared.
"Nngh! Strong wind." Venti grunted.
"Hmm?" Rachel notice something amiss as Venti's wounds seem to be healing. 'Rejuvenation?'
"Ngh... we're not gonna yet!" Juna declared as she the others got back on her feet.
"Argent Heal!" Altina used her craft: Argem heal to heal her team. "Archen! Ancient power!"
"Aaarchen!" Altina's Archen's body glow white and materlized a white stone energy and launch them toward the Vampires but Rachel backhand it to her left.
Levi use his craft: Spiral Vortex as he drag the vampires with a pull of wind and then leap into the air with razer wind striking them, then dive and plunge the ground as green energy spike manifest strike them as Kurt used his craft: Tempest Edge 2 and Juna follow up by using Frozen Fist on them.
Quaxwell used Aqua Cutter on them with Florasato used Seed Bomb, Prinplup used Whirlpool and Venti used his craft: Skyward Sonnet as Rachel and Roselia was surrounded by wind and a green magic circle broughtly over a magical green harp appeared over them and flash, knocking them into the air as Juna and Levi used their Craft: Brave Smash 2 and Blade of Arcanium. Rachel and Roselia recovered.
"Hmm. I see." Rachel look mused.
"You've done well holding out this far. But it is time we brought this to a close!" Roselia exclaimed as she hugged herself as suddenly, the scenery change around them.
Roselia form then change to where she was a beautiful woman, behind her was a red moon. She levitated into the air, swirling her staff.
"Oh, Crimson Moonlight." Roselia's voice also change as several large magic circle appeared around the red moon. "Vale in dust. Lend me your power!" Several magic circles appeared around the New Class VII as a large red moon appeared over them with four magic circle surrounding it... "Burn to ashes! Bewitching Blood Moon!" Then starting shooting fire onto them before turn into a magma zone, dealing devasting damage onto them as the scene change back to normal.
Juna and the others nearly fell to their knees but they all managed to stand on their feet, including their Pokemon, despite Floragato's weakness to fire type move.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Saint-Gral Labyrinth)
"Impressive, you managed to survive." Roselia replied.
"That...was real scary." Juna said.
"Incredible...what power she wields." Kurt added.
"And the elder… of the Hexen Clan." Venti added
Altina sighed. "A single mistake...and we would have been done for."
"Color me impressed you guys!" Levi praised. "You have taken heavy damage and you're still standing."
Roselia folded her arms. "Well, I suppose it counts as a pass, even if that was just a fraction of my power."
"So that is what you truly look like before you lower yourself into that tiny form?" Rachel asked as she folded her arms.
"That is correct." Roselia replied before she changed back to her current form. "Up until I divided my power to create Celine and Grianos. I was able to recover my erstwhile form in places like this, which overflowed with mana. Though only for a brief time, as it was."
"I see." Levi mused.
"Hmph. Do I detect amusement in your tone, Sullivan?"
"Come again?" Levi raised an eyebrow before realizing what Rachel mean. "Rachel, please tell me you're not thinking that I was attracted to Roselia's adult appearance..."
"Well, are you, Levi?" Juna fold her arms along with Altina with a dry look.
"Would it be wrong for me to say yes? I'm a guy, it can't be helped!" Levi exclaimed. "Unlike Randy, Sylvain, and other men, I don't want to make it awkward and start flirting and prefer her adult appearance because... well, you know."
"Uh-huh." Altina gave him the 'really' look.
"Juna, Altina, come on! Do you truly think so low of me to start acting like some womanizer?! Since when have I ever behaved like one?"
"Hmm. Didn't you admit to Instructor Sara that you would kiss her as a reward for the rescue back in Lamane?"
"Oh Aidios help me..." Levi groaned in defeat, causing Venti, Kurt, and the Pokemon to sweatdrop.
"Though, for some reason, it doesn't bother me as much as Instructor Rean."
"Oh, I think I know what you mean! Instructor Rean's stoic and calm for the most part, but he's also wound up to be kind of a lady-killer." Juna agreed, causing Kurt, Venti, the Pokemon and Levi to sweatdrop this time.
'Oh geez. I'm so going to get Rachel for this...' Levi whispered as he sighed. 'Still, though, Rean's knack for trouble never fails to amaze me. When it comes to women, he always managed to win their hearts.'
'I suppose that's the consequence of his natural charm.' Kurt nodded
'Oh yeah. I have no idea how he can be so dense as he is right now.' Venti added
"Well, young ones, consider this first round complete." Roselia continued. "Take some rest, and then enter the labyrinth once again. I'll increase the strength of the monsters to come, to keep it challenging."
"Huh?" Juna blinked
"Please don't tell me..." Kurt paused
"So we're not finished?" Altina asked.
"Yep. You guys are not done yet. Did you really think you'll get your strength after one trial?" Levi asked "Unfortunately for you, that wasn't even close. This is just the beginning. We have got more than enough days to regain what you lost. We'll use those times to push you all to your limits and then go beyond that."
"Worry not, there are facilities here that will allow for a quick recovery. Then you can push those limits of yours to your heart's content." Roselia said.
"However, your next opponent after making it this far, will be Valkenhayn." Rachel said.
"Wait, You're including him too?" Levi asked.
"Indeed. Valkenhayn is more than happy to assist." Rachel said as Valkenhayn teleported in.
"Indeed I am." Valkenhayn said with a bow. "Worry not. Should make it here again, I will hold back much of my strength until you're ready for a similar blow."
"If I may." A heavenly light appeared as Palutena appeared. "Many available Fighters and others also volunteer to assist you. Myself included. Many others also plan to teach you something new that may come in handy."
"You should consider yourself Lucky, New Class VII. Many people volunteer to help you get back in shape and even go far to teach you new techniques, even magic. Be sure not to disappoint them and myself the next time you face me. I would like to absorb some of that fresh young energy for myself seeing there's plenty to go around." Roselia smirked
Then the student swestdrop.
"Oh, dear…" Venti sighed.
"W-Well, I guess the pressure's on, but—all right, let's do this!" Juna said.
"Right. This is only the first step!" Kurt nodded
Altina nodded in agreement. "I'll persist no matter how severe the training, in order to maintain the oath I made to myself."
"That's the spirit." Levi chuckled. "All right, let's rest up. And begin your next trail."
Several Hours later to nightfall...
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Gentle Nap)
"Ahhhh...this is amazing." Juna sighed happily as she, Levi, her classmates, and their Pokemon relaxing in the Fairy Hot Spring after several training and battles with everyone who volunteered to help them.
"So this is a 'fairy spring' is it? It's so soothing…" Kurt smiled
"It may be even more effective than the bath at our dorm…" Altina smiled.
"To be honest, I was thinking the same thing." Levi replied. "I often used the hot springs at my home or Ymir to unwind after some rigorous training. Every time I go into the hot springs, I can feel all the soreness fade away. Feeling rejuvenated after a long day."
"Gotta love hot springs, am I right?" Venti chuckled.
"Yeah." Juna nodded then looked at her hands. "After everything we did today, I feel like I'm slowly starting to get some of my old strength back. I was worried at first when I noticed how stiff I was in battle, but now..."
"Yeah. There is now a light at the end of this tunnel." Kurt added. "I'm grateful for everyone for volunteering to help us. But to think so many people went all their ways to help us."
"Yeah. Rachel, Roselia, Valkenhayn, Palutena, but Viridi's Generals: Arlon and Phosphera, King Ryoma, King Xander... more will be on their way. I'm surprised the two Kings of Corrin's world decided to help us." Venti said
"Indeed. It's hard to imagine how many people we met through the Old Class VII connections. Some of them are even gods, legendary warriors, so to speak." Altina said.
"We owe everyone a debt of gratitude for helping us getting our strength back while the others start gathering tntel." Kurt said
"Indeed. Once we finally recover what we lost, we'll be able to join that." Altina nodded
"Yeah. Oh right, that reminds me. Juna, Kurt, Venti, Altina. Do you remember the credit and debit cards back during our time in Evershade Valley? I have them in my hand." Levi told them.
"Really?! You mean all that Mira we gain? Wait... how much was it?" Juna asked.
"300,000,000 mira." Altina answered. "Now that I think about it... Oh..." Altina frowned. "It's already possible the Mira I gain is already frozen."
"That... is rather unfortunate." Kurt muttered
"You had no idea what was gonna happen. but please don't blame yourself." Venti told her.
"Even so. We'll get them back Altina. In the meantime, once we join the others on the mission, I'll give them to you. But don't use them just yet. There's a possible chance the Imperial government might have placed a bounty on us. But that doesn't mean you can't use them outside of Erebonia to here in the Hexen Clan." Levi told them. "While we are in Erebonia, we will use mira in hand. Don't forget that all the quartz, master quartz, sepiths, mira, including my mira that I transfer into the inventory, items, and accessories are in the inventory so feel free to use them for upgrades or however you like."
"Man, the ARCUS Alpha inventory is truly incredible. I've forgotten how many time we used it and it still stores so much of our stuff." Juna said.
"Indeed. Especially the Party App where we can be aware of our comrades status as if life were to be a video game." Kurt nodded
"Well, with the current way of the world, it does make sense for people to develop these inventions." Altina nodded.
"Right. But the inventory was Professor E. Gadd design. The party app was originally from Remnant use to Aura. " Levi then look down. "Thanks to Prince Olivert who help share that knowledge with the world..." He then smiled as he look into the sky. "Professor. E. Gadd used that knowledge to develop the party app for us to use. He created a lot of stuff in the past due to his research. We should know that from your time in Evershade Valley. And my experience from many adventures he was involved in." he then turn to his students. "Which is why we're forever grateful to him. And he even let you guys keep your Poltergust 5000 as well, should you guys need it."
"You're right. The Mushroom Kingdom is fortunate to have someone odd, but jolly to have him at his side." Altina nodded with a smile.
"Very true. As someone who help develop technology... Things have become more enjoyable." Venti stretch his arm.
"Still in high spirits, I see. I suppose I will simply need to give you an even more grueling challenge tomorrow." Roselia said as she appeared along with Rachel in bathrobes.
"Oh, hey Rose. Rachel. You're coming in too?" Juna asked
"Indeed, we are. I have been rather interested in this Fairy Spring, so it will be a fine time for me to take care of my skin and relieve some of the stress." Rachel answered.
"Indeed. It's not often I chat with Rachel who is a fellow kin. Despite how high horse attitude." Roselia folds her arms. "Still, it pleases me to see how relaxed you are all with the mixed bathing."
"Ah right, but perhaps us men should take our leave if you want us to." Kurt said.
"B-but you're tired too, aren't you?!" Juna responded. "It's not like there's any other baths you can use!"
"Now now, let's all calm down and not overthink things." Levi replied nervously. "But I do understand Kurt's reasoning about the bath thing. But we're all friends here. Think of it as we're all in a swimming pool or a hot tub. And so long as we're wearing our towels in a mixed bath, we should be fine."
"When you put it that way, I guess I guess it's not that bad."
"I have to say, Juna, you've got quite the promising pair. Though they pale in comparison to Emma's, of course." Roselia said with a grinned.
Levi and Kurt's face turn red while Venti let out a grinned.
"Rose! We don't need to hear that!" Levi yelled
"Hmph. I see. So you're one of those type, Rose? How naughty." Rachel fold her arms.
"Oh live a little would you?" Roselia said as she got her hands and did a grabbing movement. "They must be just brimming with fatigue. What say I wrest it all out for you?"
"Rose!" Levi yelled.
"H-hold up! That is NOT the kind of fortitude I thought we'd be testing!" Juna protested.
"I'm watching." Venti smirked
"Venti." Kurt and Levi gave Venti a deadpan look.
"Flora~ Flora." Venti's Floragato chuckled.
"Quaxwell." Juna's Quaxwell sweatdrop. "Quaxwell, Quaxwell."
"Who are you calling a perverted old lady?!" Roselia yelled.
"Wait, you can understand him?" Juna asked.
"Of course I can. Although the reason is unknown, I can understand them just fine."
"Clearly something special about you Rose. But please don't do what I think you're doing." Levi sighed.
"Heehee." Altina giggled as she looked up at the sky.
"Wartortle?" Altina's Wartortle tile his head.
"Oh it's nothing. Just had a feeling everyone is going to be all right." Altina replied. 'Just hold on for a little longer Insturctor Rean. Because Me, Levi, Juna, Kurt, Venti, we'll meet back up with Musse and Ash somehow. And once we do, we'll get you back, too! Definitely! Right... Millium?'
"ALLIE! LEVI! Are you just gonna let this happen?!" Juna exclaimed as Roselia was behind her, copping a feel.
"Rose! Really?!" Levi exclaimed as his cheeks blushed.
"Oh hush Sullivan. After all, you're enjoying this too."
"I-I am not! Don't make me grab you!"
"Juna, have some decency." Altina replied.
Roselia was in her own little world. "Ah, so soft to the touch, and much more..."
"H-HEY! Hands off, Already you-" Juna pleaded. "Mmngh! Fine! Let's see how you like it, Allie!"
That got Altina's attention. "Huh?"
Juna moved away from Roselia's grasp and hugged Altina from behind.
"Ahh, smooth and squishy to the touch, I could just do this forever!" Juna cooed
"W-wait, Juna!" Altina protested.
"Haha!" Venti smirked. "Things just got sexy~"
Roselia winked. "Now that's more like it!"
"And that's our cue to leave." Levi said as he got up.
Kurt replied as he got up. "Agreed."
"Let's grab Venti while we're at it." Levi added as he and Kurt grabbed Venti by his arms, dragged him, and leave.
"H-Hey! Put me down! I'm enjoying a good show here!" Venti exclaimed as he struggle.
(BGM ended)
Rachel and Roselia, the Vampure Duo. Fitting no? I was gonna place in a quote for Roselia to say to Rachel with.
"Now Rachel!"
"Very well."
Stuff like that.
Oh yeah, here is the enemy data for Rachel
Rachel Alucard: A Vampire with very powerful magic. Join Roselia as New Class VII opponents for their special Training.
HP:141696