(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Raquel, the Amusement Town)
The group made their way back to the Entertainment District where they see no blockade of people.
"Huh. Well would you look at that." Levi said as they go into Barca Casino. "I had a feeling there would be people here."
"Well it is a gambling place. It shouldn't surprise anyone at this point." Kirito said. "So how do we get into the Geofront?"
"Let's ask the owner. I met him a couple of times. He's an old friend of Randy." Juna answered "Come on, follow me." She take the group upstairs and to the second floor and go to the counter to a man in a suit.
"Well, if it isn't Juna." He spoke.
"Hi, Mr. Drake. It's good to see you again." Juna replied.
"Haha, yes indeed! I was so sorry to miss you last time you visited. So what can I do for you?" He asked as they explain to him.
"Hmmm, you've certainly gotten yourselves wrapped up in something troublesome. I've heard about the situation over at the branch campus. In any case, there IS an underground passage in the casino basement that leads there."
"Looks like we were right." Levi said.
"But how did our contact know such specifics?" Altina asked. "Are you acquainted with the infamous hacker?"
"No, I've only heard the rumors. That's all." Drake replied. "Besides, there are a multitude of ways to make your way there."
"Can't say I'm surprised since it's similar to Heimdallr's underground." Levi comment
"With that in mind, we should stay on gaurd." Kurt said.
"If you're set on going, you should take this with you." Proprietor Drake handed a key to them. "Go through the back door on the first floor, then turn right. That'll lead you to the underground. We don't use it very often, so it may be a little run-down. Do be careful."
Juna nodded. "Thanks."
"We'd better be absolutely ready before we get going." Alisa advised.
The group went down the stairs and through the backfoot, turn right and over to the door where Juna unlocked it.
"All right, let's go in." Gray said as they walk downstairs to the Geofront X sector.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Synchronicity #23)
"Wow, so this is the Geofront sector? I thought it's somewhat a sewer place." Kirito mused
"Oh thank goodness, I wasn't hoping we go into one." Asuna groaned.
"Alright! Let's go, um...which way do we go again?" Juna asked.
Musse hummed. "We never did receive concrete instructions."
Juna's ARCUS suddenly beeped and she answered it.
"Huh? Who's calling you?" Carla asked as Juna answer it.
"Phew, finally got through. So you've reached X Sector, huh?"
"Who are you? And how did you get this number?" Juna asked
"Granted, it was difficult thanks to some well-built-in firewalls within the ARCUS units. But it was child's play for a genius like me. Keep going until you get to the computer room. I'll be waiting for you there. Oh, and try not to get torn to shreds by the monsters. Anyway, later!"
The call then ended.
"'Later?!' The heck this guy's problem?!"
"Sounds like one cocky bastard. That's for sure." Ash said.
"A young boy of around 15 or so years, by my best estimate." Altina added. "But how did he get a hold of your ARCUS number?"
"Hmm... He must be a more skilled hacker than I thought." Kirito rub his chin. "The ARCUS Alpha has state-of-the-art firewall protection against hackers. Plus the ARCUS Alpha have the Rotoms installed into the ARCUS. They should be more alert is someone tried to hack into them."
"You're right. What's the deal here, Rotom?" Juna asked
"Sorry Juna. But there wasn't any sign of force breaching. I can only confirm the hackers must have found your number from sources." Rotom answered
"In other world, someone either gave him your number or hacked into a certain company." Kurt said.
"Regardless, now we know where he is. We must keep going. If he does keep his word, he may have some useful information to share with us." Jusis said.
"Right. Let's get going." Natsu said as they journey into the Geofront X sector.
Juna hummed. "There's something about that kid."
"The hacker, you mean?" Musse asked. "He seems to be quite infamous here in Crossbell."
"The Intelligence Division has been training hackers of their own as of late." Altina replied
"Let's hope they don't pry into people's privacy." Levi sighed.
"With technology spreading, one should hope." Yui said. "Still, this hacker seems to be honing his skills thanks to the knowledge provided by the world."
"Yeah, but which hacker do we know is better than this kid?" Kirito asked.
"Well, there's Yui, Futaba, Tio, Tails, Professor. E. Gadd, Professor Kokonoe..." Alisa rub her chin as they spotted monsters and they begin to take them down.
"I still need to hone my hacking skills."
"Just make sure you don't use those skills for evil purpose." Erza said. "Still, if Rotom said that if the hacker has your number from a source, then why would he proclaim that he hack into the ARCUS without Rotom's senses?"
"Probably just want to show off." Alisa shrug.
"That reminds me, Alisa, how are Futaba and Tails? Didn't your mother wanted to recruit them?" Emma asked
"Oh yeah. But I'm glad Futba was still considering in time before the Great Twilight happened. As for Tails, he got his own things. Though to be honest. I don't mind having her as a colleague. She'll fit right in." She said before they found a duct. "You got to be kidding."
"Do we seriously have to go to a duct?" Juna groaned.
"The bane of Juna's existence." Altina comment.
Alisa sweatdrop. "I can completely understand."
"Same with me. I rather not crawl into places like ducts." Lucy groaned
"You know, some women enjoy a right, little squeeze~." Musse wink.
"Really? Makes me wonder if they're in the right mind." Erza wondered.
"Well, what are we waiting for? Let's go in already." Natsu said
"Not a chance! I'm not going in there!" Lucy protest
"Neither will I!" Asuna also protest.
"Levi, Emma, can you take us on the other side?" Juna pleaded.
"Okay, we can do that spell Kamek did for the others." Levi said as he and Emma combine their magic and then form them into wisp with the others and go through the vent and then arrived on the other side. "Okay, here we are."
"This is exactly why I love magic." Juna said as they found a switch that connect a bridged. "Okay, with that done, we should..." She turn to the duct. "go... back in... Ugggh..."
"And back into the duct we go." Kurt sweatdrop. "What a nuisance.
"Whoever design this place must've been drunk off their ass." Ash complained.
"Seriously." Levi sighed. "It's hard for tall guys like us to even crawl in."
"Then we better go through the same thing as back then." Venti said as Levi and Emma combine their magic and wisp them away back to the ground.
"Finally. Come on. Let's get going." Ash said as they continue forward where they cross the bridge, walk up stairs, defeating monsters, and walk to a hallway where they music coming from the left side beyond a door.
(BGM paused)
(Trails to Zero ost - The Underground Kids)
"Is that...music?" Juna asked.
"You don't suppose that room is..." Kurt paused.
"Our target destination?" Altina finished. "The probability is high."
"Well, what're we waitin' for? Let's go and meet this guy." Ash said as they go into the room where they see Jona, Sully and Litchi were in the room, next to him.
"Man, you took your sweet time." The boy said.
"Oh shut up you." Natsu respond.
"So he's the one who contacted us." Musse said.
"And he's not alone." Juna added
"What a surprise to see her here." Kurt stated. "Let alone, another familiar face." He turn to Litchi.
"Litchi? Is that you?" Levi blinked.
"Hehe. Hello everyone. It's nice to see you again. I'm glad you're aware after three week from now, right?" Litchi smiled. "Sorry about the call Juna. I was the one who gave him your number."
"So it was you?" Juna gasped.
"So this brat here proclaim he managed to hack into it?" Natsu asked, turning to Jona.
"Hey! Who are you calling a brat?!" Jona pouted. "But anyway. Nice to meet you IRL, Class VII. Team Natsu, Kirito, his girlfriend, his best friend, and his AI daughter. I'm genius systems engineer and hacker extraordinaire... Jona Sacred."
"A genius who can't feed himself, let alone break into the ARCUS State-of-the-art protection." Sully remarked. "You were at the theater earlier, right? I'm a member of Arc en Ciel. My name's Sully Atraid. Tio and the others have told us all about you, but it's so nice to finally meet."
Juna gasped. "W-wait a sec! You know the SSS, too?!"
"In a way. I do something here and there for them through Rixia." Sully replied. "I'm guessing you must be Juna, I've heard a few stories about you. You're one of Bannings's junior cadets, right?"
"Y-Yeah. Or well, I was. Back when I was still at the police academy, anyway."
"And you must be Levi. A new friend that Randy made in the Empire right? Leading the New Class VII in the Ashen Chevalier's place?"
"Yeah. Since Rean is absent, it's up to me to look out for them." Levi nodded.
"Wow. I never would've dreamed Arc en Ciel's newest rising star was rubbing shoulders with the SSS." Juna said. "Oh, that reminds me. I finally remember! You're THAT Jona. The bratty, wannabe-criminal shut-in Tio works with at the foundation!"
"PFFFFT!" Levi cover his mouth as he hold in his laughter.
"I'm not bratty! Or a wannabe! Or a shut-...well, okay. She's got me on that one, I guess." Jona muttered "So Tio's out there blasting my reputation. And you're not helping either, you blabbermouth! I was TRYING to be cool and mysterious! Y'know, play up the genius hacker bit."
Sully frowned at him. "Uh-huh, I'm just saving them time before reality hits."
"Ouch, she got you there! Bwahahahaha!" Levi laughed.
"For some "genius" hacker, you don't live up that reputation since you claim you hack into Juna's ARCUS." Yui said.
"Yeah, what was that all about?" Eugeo asked
"I told you, they wouldn't believe you if you said that." Litchi sighed.
"Oh hush! How am I supposed to live up to my genius title?" Jona pouted. "Ugh, why did Professor Kokonoe and that old man E. Gadd make it so hard?"
"Ahh, so that's why Litchi is here." Kirito said.
"Yes. Jona tried to hack into our system. But Tager caught him and arrested him." Litchi said.
"Ahh, so the "genius" hacker got caught at last, hm?" Juna said with a grinned.
"Ugggh... Why did you bring that up..." Jona groaned.
"Well, you did have it coming." Sully said. "That's just how the world, or the law works."
"Regardless, you should consider yourself lucky that the professor was the one who discovered you. Had it been anyone else, you would be arrested on the spot." Litchi said.
"Yeah, yeah." Jona sighed. "But she's just as much as a shut-in as I am."
"Yes, but you don't have some powerful assistant as she does. And unlike you who only eats junk food, she does some exercises." Sully comment.
"All right everyone, we should get back on topic." Litchi said. "We have been expecting your arrival Class VII and friends."
"Miss Litchi. What brings you here with them?" Altina asked.
"Well, after he was caught, he has been under our care for a while. But after the Great Twilight happened, we have been working hard to look into the Erebonia Government movement. After we heard Class VII regain consciousness and learn about the black Pleroma Grass. We have been looking into the singularity ourselves. After we learn there's one in Crossbell, the Professor orders me and Jona to come to Crossbell and locate it."
"I'm surprised Professor Kokonoe is well-informed." Alisa mused. "I heard a thing or two about Jona, that he from Epstein Foundation but wasn't expecting he was under the Professor's care."
"Not to mention Sully and him to be connected to the SSS." Levi added
"Eh, it's more of a love-hate sorta thing, really." Jona replied. "Anyway, now you know about me. And I already know tons about you. So what say we help each other out? We could trade some info for starters."
"Right. So far, we're aware of the situation from the data from Orchis Tower and your activities within the Empire." Litchi suggest.
(BGM ended)
(Persona 3 ost - Fearful Experience)
"Well, where to begin? There's a lot going on." Levi rub his chin. "I think you guys are aware of the draft. You already learn about the singularity, and that Rean was captured by Chancellor Osborne, the Gnomes, and the Ironbloods..." Levi snapped his finger. "Ah! Okay. Did you guys know what happened in Crossbell two years ago with the Azure Tree was part of the plan?"
"What plan?" Jona asked
"Ouroboros Phantasmal Blaze Plan. They plan to use the "hollow phantasm" to "awaken" the blaze" in the Empire. In truth, the civil war was also part of it. Vita used my clan forbidden incantation to release the Infernal Castle. Although it was not planned that the late Duke Cayenne used the Vermillion Apocalypse power to rule Erebonia. We were able to defeat and rescue Crown Prince Cedric who was forced into it. After all was over, Chancellor Osborne who was revealed to be alive this whole time stole Ouroboros Phantasmal Blaze's plan right under them." Emma explained.
"But two years have passed and after Ouroboros went quiet with the jaegers, after that situation with Organization XIII. The Emperor was shot, and Ouroboros teamed up with the Chancellor and the Gnomes and other villains along the way to bring forth the Great Twilight." Alisa continued.
"Hmm..." Jona rub his chin. "So that whole Azure-Tree-slash-presidency debate was part of their plan all along..."
"Indeed. The pieces part of the game has been unfolded before us from the very start." Musse nodded
"A fiendish scheme to say the least." Kurt nodded
"So far, we're searching for a way to stop the end-of-the-world plan. As of right now, we don't know. But that doesn't mean we should give up." Levi said. "Our first plan is to rescue Rean from the Black Workshop so we can begin our plan to defeat the Chancellor and his nefarious group."
"You mean the Ashen Chevalier?" Sully asked "I mean, he IS pretty famous, but..."
"I dunno... Feels kinda unrealistic to pin all your hopes on one day." Jona remark
"Well, I can't blame you for thinking that. But you misunderstand." Levi comment. "We're not planning all our hopes into him. We're RESCUING him. He's already suffering as it is. And once we rescue him, knock him to his senses, everyone who wants to stop Osborne will gather together to figure out a plan."
"Well if you say so."
"As you already know, we're already looking for the singularity with the black Pleroma Grass. So we'll let you know if we find anything." Litchi smiled
"Thanks for the assistance then." Kurt said
"As much as I like to say I'm only helping you out because is because I'm helping myself, but that isn't the case anymore." Jona sighed. "Though on the bright side, I wanna see how far the great Chevalier that gave Bannings a run for his money has fallen."
"Jona!" Litchi scolded until Levi unleashed his silver aura. "Uh Oh." She sweatdrops while the others flinch and step back.
"H-Hey! What's with the scary look!?"
"You got some balls for a mere brat. That's one of my friends you're talking to. He's not fallen. I suggest you choose your words more carefully and not insult him." Levi then give a slightly scary glare. "Got it?"
"O-Okay! Sheesh!"
Levi's aura calm down as he let out a smile while the rest sweatdrop.
"You brought it upon yourself." Sully sighed as she turned to Jona
Litchi sighed. "I told you that you need to choose your words more carefully Jona. That personality of yours is what gets you in trouble in the first place."
"Yeah, I can agree to that." Sully nodded.
"Well, whatever your reasons, we appreciate the help, Jona." Juna replied
"Pfft. This dweeb's actually pretty cute. For a total nerd." Ash comment
"N-Nerd?!" Jona exclaimed "I'm a geek, at-"
Natsu, Levi, Erza, Gray, Happy, Wendy and Carla heard something.
"Everyone, be quiet!" Carla tells everyone to shush when they hear a low growl coming behind the door.
Jona turned to the computer to look into the camera and spotted a Grimm. A Beowolf.
"A-A Beowolf?!" Jona turn pale.
"Jona you idiot!" Sully Palmface as the Beowolf attacks the door.
"Let me handle this." Levi pulled out his Glaive, approached the door as it opened, forward his arm, and blasted a beam of light to push the Grimm back and then slashed through it to deal the final blow as it began to dissolve. "There."
"Oh that was a close call. But what's a Grimm doing here? It shouldn't be possible for them to come into the Geofront!"
"Well someone must have lelt them in or they found their way into the Geofront. Regardless, we're not safe here anymore. We should get going." Levi advised.
"Agreed. The force field Professor Kokonoe created prevents Archaisms and other machines from activating when entering its field and keeping the monsters away. Grimm on the other hand, who have no souls are able to get past, but must trigger an alert." Litchi turned her head to the computer as it was flashing red for a while. "And it looks like it was active during our conversation."
"We'll use the professor's teleportation device to take us to the streets." Litchi pulls out the Device and opens a portal. "Check the entrance Jona."
"Got it!" Jona type into the computer and looked at the entrance. "Okay, no one is out there. Let's go!" He said as everyone went through the portal that took them to the other Geofront exit.
(BGM ended)
As they exit, they arrived at a small lighthouse.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Briefing Time)
"Oh, look at that." Levi looked around. "We're back at the Harbor District."
"Yes. And we're also safe too." Musse nodded. "So that device is what brought you here?"
"Yes. As a precaution in case someone is after all. We set up hidden cameras in the Geofront to alert us who entered. If it is an enemy, we use the teleporter and go into a different hideout." Litchi nodded
"Man, it's beat better than walking! The Professor is amazing!" Jona smirked.
"Yeah. She is pretty amazing I guess." Sully nodded.
"Well now that the coast is clear, we should part ways. We got a singularity to look out for and the other branch campus students." Levi reminded.
"Yeah. I agree. I know a place where we can lay low for away. And away from everyone's Radar for now." Sully said. "Follow me."
(BGM ended)
And so the group began to walk their way to the harbor and begin to head to said place. But before they go any further, Levi, Natsu, Wendy, and Carla feel a presence.
"Hm?" Natsu turns his head in the direction of the other two.
"Natsu, what's up?" Happy asked
"I thought I sensed and smelled someone is watching us."
"Yeah, I felt it too." Wendy nodded
"Same." Levi nodded.
"Happy." Natsu turn.
"Aye, sir!" Happy grabbed Natsu flew toward one of the rooftops and looked around. "See anyone?"
Natsu sniffed. "No, they're gone now. I can still smell them, however. We better be careful." He said as they descended down and then took off to catch the others while Levi and Natsu glaze at the rooftop before leaving the Harbot District.
After they left, certain figures reappeared on the rooftop.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Beyond a Little Hope)
"Man, that was a close call." Lector said with a sigh. "Sullivan I get, but Dragon Slayers are a lot more dangerous than I thought."
"No kidding. I wasn't expecting Fairy Tail Mages to be here. Mostly Natsu Dragneel and his teammates." Campanella nodded. "It was a good idea to quickly hide and leave this place before he sniffed us out."
"Honestly though. What's more, the syndicate couldn't even catch them off guard thanks to that force field." Noel sighed. "And since that woman is with them, that can mean Kokonoe was helping them."
"Ah yes." Someone else approached them from behind and stood next to Lector. "I remember that Faunus name."
"According to the intel, she's not a Faunus. But regardless, she's clearly someone we shouldn't underestimate." Lector said.
"You can say that again. She's a difficult one to pin down. It's no wonder that maniac couldn't even get close to him." Noel replied before turning to the person next to Lector. "Though I can't say I'm delighted to see you of all people. Let alone alive as well."
"The feeling is mutual. I have every intention of killing you and this brat here from two years ago." The man snarls at Noel and Campanella.
"Well, you are a very dangerous individual. Someone like you is far too dangerous for the world to have. Despite the tragic backstory." Campanella waved his hand. "I don't have any clue why she would bring you back from the grave, but clearly she's lost her mind."
"Who can say for sure? I'm only a pawn to her."
"And yet, you're still planning on destroying humanity and plan to ruin the peace that Princess Peach and Prince Olivert and other world leaders who welcome and treat Faunus with respect and equal rights. A lot has changed when you were dead. It's better if someone like you couldn't go ruin it all." Noel scoffed.
"Now now, I know you guys have bad blood but remember we're in this together. Course, I think we all agree that Remnant is a lost cause nation."Lector said
"Well on that we agree." Campanella nodded.
"Hmph." The man scoffed. "Regardless, we will settle this soon enough. But I expected that useless syndicate couldn't do a simple job."
"Sure, at least as far as this case is concerned." Lechtor nodded "The Jade Rook is back. Now we just need to buy some time. After that, it's just a matter of handing it over to the next guy."
"All work and no play, huh?" Campanella asked. "I like that about you. As for Jormungandr, we're just about ready to get everything officially underway."
"But there are a few details to work out regarding it more... 'unofficial' aspects, right?" Noel asked
"Right."
"Then there's Class VII. What's left of them, anyway. Let's see just how much fight these dregs still have in them." Lechtor replied.
(BGM ended)
With the group...
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Temporally Suspicious)
The group relocated to the former headquarters of the SSS building which Sully, Jona and Litchi had the key.
"This place once belong to the SSS right?" Kirito asked.
"Yeah. Wow, it's been so long." Juna said with a smile. "I only ever came by here a few times, but still." She turn to the others. "Oh yeah. Didn't some of you guys came here with Instructor Rean during our field exercises, too?"
"Yep. It certainly help us as a base. Which explains why it feels so welcoming." Levi nodded before turning to Sully. "So you have a spare key to this place?"
"Bingo." Sully nodded. "Elie and the others gave us one when we met up with them while back. We use the place as a safehouse for times like this."
"And times like this mean me busting my typing fingers helping out the SSS. Though I prefer to be in Kokonoe's office, this place isn't half bad I guess." Jona said.
"That reminds me. How did you know we were here in Crossbell?" Asuna asked
"You can thank the network for that. That's how we found out that you guys came here."
"So the enemy has been aware of our arrival from the beginning?" Eugeo asked
"It wouldn't surprise me if the Intelligence Division had been tracking us." Levi sighed.
"They do have an entire section dedicated to analyzing data to formulate strategies, after all. And they've recently established a team that specialized in getting intel from the Orbal Network and the internet too." Altina added. "In addition, they even have and train Pokemon to help scout and gather info from the shadows."
"Patrat, Watchog, Growlithe, Flying Pokemon, namely various of Pokemon at their side." Litchi tuck her glasses. "And the worst part if we don't know which pokemon within the city is part of the Intelligence Division since many Pokemon here are part of daily life."
"No kidding. But damn." Ash fold his arms.
"Meh. Let 'em make as many teams as they want. I'll hack so many circles around 'em their loops'' have loops." Jona smirked as a respond in the terminal. "All right, the network's up and running! Let's see what we can find."
"Hmm, maybe we should call in Louise and give her the heads up." Juna said as she begin to call Louise. "Hey Louise. Listen, can you come over to the SSS building? I'll feel you up on everything.
(BGM paused)
A few minutes have past as Louise made it to the SSS and begin planning their next action.
(Fire Emblem Warriors Three Hopes ost - Hope for Tomorrow)
"Wow, this is a lot to unpack here..." Eugeo groaned. "And it's completely zilch on the black Pleroma Grass."
"And yet the news the Governor General is returning to Crossbell." Happy said.
"That hot topic is concerning." Carla said.
"Yeah. His airship just got back a little awhile ago." Wendy nodded.
"And from Garrelia Fortress as well." Jusis added.
"Huh. Well, that sure don't bode well." Ash fold his arm.
"Why don't we take a look at this report here?" Musse suggested. "St. Ursula Hospital... Where have I heard that name before?"
"Oh, you mean St. Ursala Medical College?" "That's one of Crossbell's most advanced medical facilities." Juna answered
"Oh yeah, there's where Linde used to study before she got to sign up as one of the nurses at the branch campus." Venti replied.
"Yeah, the place has been overrun with new patients lately." Jona said. "They've had to discharge people faster than usual, or transfer them over to Armorica or the Mushroom Kingdom. Pretty harsh, if you ask me."
"But why would they discharge so many patients?" Sora wondered.
"I went there a while back to check up on things. It was kind of a shock." Louise nodded "Turns out a ton of government and military workers have been going there in secret."
"Sounds like there's something more to this than meets the eye." Kurt said.
"I know a nurse who works there. Maybe she can tell us something about it." Sully suggested "Though I haven't had a chance to see her lately. She's just as busy as everyone else."
"Wait, you don't happen to mean Cecile, do you?" Juna asked "She lives in my apartment building! I've known her almost all my life."
"Wow, It's a small world, huh? Though I wonder where Lloyd is right about now. He isn't in that convalescent home they set up in Armorica. I can guess they're somewhere else or in the Mushroom Kingdom."
"Really? The Mushroom Kingdom?"
"Yeah. Litchi, and Professor Kokonoe knows them too. She had them do whatever task she set them up." Sully nodded
"As of right now, Lloyd and the others are busy with an assignment the Professor has them do for the time being. I don't know if they can help." Litchi said.
"Yeah. Plus Ilya got move to the Mushroom Kingdom too, right in the middle of her rehab."
"That's horrible..." Lucy said.
"The Imperial Government couldn't care less, just to make sure all soldiers are preparing for the war." Erza fold her arms.
"Yeah. But I do know that Ilya is doing okay. As Cecile said, the Mushroom Kingdom hospital is better equipped with medical technology than the ones St. Ursula has right now." Sully sighed
"I hope Ilya recovers soon. I'm sure everyone else in Crossbell feels the same way." Juna said with a soft smile.
"Yeah."
"Ilya is the lead performer in Arc en Ciel, right?" Lucy asked. "I heard that she was badly injured during the raid two years ago."
"How awful. Still, should we talk about the Grimm that was in the Geofront?" Donald asked.
"It's very concerning actually. What's more. Someone has been infiltrating the Geofront too. A very dangerous individual." Litchi said, looking concerned.
"I can't believe that crazy fanus is here too." Jona grumbled.
"Who are you talking about?" Goofy asked
"Tyrian." Litchi asked.
"Tyrian? I think I heard that name before, but where?" Alisa wondered.
"Tyrian Callow. An infamous serial killer in Remnant. And one of Salem's underlings. He's here in Crossbell?" Altina asked.
"A-A serial killer?!" Juna gasped.
"Yes. We move to different Geofronts to avoid him. He is a skilled tracker. We don't know why he's here, but he has been following us." Jona grumbled. "And we know Salem can control Grimm. Do you think he might be the one who releases them into the Geofront?"
"It's possible but why would he do that?" Emma wondered. "And if he found we leave the Geofront, he could be hunting us right now."
"Yes, but with many people walking around, it would put him at risk." Litchi told him. "Still, this can't be a coincidence."
"Yeah. We don't know why he's here which is the scary part. As if the society and Heiyue aren't bad enough to deal with the Governor General." Jona sighed.
"Plus, there have been activities of Archaism in Crossbell too." Litchi said as she brought a hologram map of Crossbell with several marks. "See the marks there? Those are where the Archaisms are sighted on the map. The SSS and certain Bracers have been dealing with them of late."
"It's totally biased to one side, isn't it? I mean, there's barely any around Mishelam. Same goes for St. Ursala." Ash pointed out
"Well, perhaps that 'bias' is precisely where our clue lies." Musse said. "It's almost as though they're trying to draw the attention of the SSS and the bracers away from the south."
"There's still no telling if they've found the singularity, though." Juna added.
"Regardless of why that is, we should at least consider investigating around those areas for clues." Levi suggested. "Why don't we start with looking for Valerie at the hospital?"
"Yes, she might have found something out by now." Louise agreed. "I already got word back from Freddy. He's been looking around that area himself. He said he discovered something 'interesting' at our old field exercise camp."
"Something interesting?" Altina repeated.
"Hmm, I think I have an idea of what that is. We'll look into that along the way." Levi replied. "Let's head over to the old field camp and then onto St. Ursala's hospital."
"Good. Then it's decided." Juna nodded. "Time to hear what our friends have to say. We'll head to the old field exercise camp first. After that, it's off to St. Ursula Hospital!"
"We should head to Station Road and start our excursion from there." Jusis nodded
"Good luck, everyone." Louise encouraged.
"We'll see what we can find while you're gone." Jona added "I'll make sure to contact you as soon as we do."
"With Rixia and the SSS rushed off their feet, you guys are the only one who can count on for this." Sully nodded. "Guess you get to take the lead this time. Be careful out there."
"Yeah. You guys take care of yourselves too." Sora nodded as they began to head out.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Cage Crossbell)
Levi then got a phone call and he answer. "Hello?"
"Hey there Levi! Are you, Class VII and your friends still in Crossbell?" Grace asked
"We are, why?"
"Listen. I need a favor. Can you come down to the office and we can discuss it there? I promise it'll be worth it!"
"Let me ask the others." Levi turn to the others. "Grace is calling us for a favor. Should we do it?"
"Might as well. Who knows. It might help us." Juna said.
"Okay, we'll head over."
"Great! See you then!" Grace said as she hang up and the others made their way to the West District to make their way to the CNS Temp. Office. ""Ah good, you're here! Sorry to bother you when you're so busy."
"It's fine. Helping other people is kinda our model. So what do ya need?" Levi asked.
"I'm working on a pretty important piece right now. And I am WAY to busy to get all the information I need on my own. But basually I need some responses to these options surveys." Grace pull out papers. "We're looking for responses from Crossbellans Recent immigrants from Erebonia and military personnel aren't our target audience here. And the big question is: 'What do you think of the National Mobilization Law?."
"Whoa hold up! That's taking a big risk!" Kirito stated.
"Yeah, you'll get in trouble big time if you do something like that." Eugeo agreed.
"I'm aware of the risk. But I can get around it. There's no need to spell out the results directly, I can just hint at them." Grace said. "Besides, I'm kind of curious what the people really think."
"I dunno if anyone from Erebonia's gonna like what you're trying to do here." Ash said.
"Not to mention, Crossbell will be right near the front lines if war does break out." Kurt added.
"How would we go about conducting the survey, if you don't mind me asking?" Musse asked
"Just get out on the streets and ask anyone who's willing to talk. Mention you're with the Crossbell Times. We still have credibilities here." Grace answered. "I've already covered West Street, myself. With a group like you splitting up, you'll be just fine and fast too. Go ask around Central Square, the Entertainment District, East Street, and the Harbor District. That'd be perfect. I need ten responses total. Two each from East Street and Harbor District. And three from Central Square and the Entertainment District should do the trick."
"Got it! We'll head out now." Juna nodded
"We just need a sample of two or three people from each four districts. It shouldn't be difficult." Altina said.
"Don't forget to ask only those who are originally from Crossbell." Kurt reminded.
"So splitting up isn't going to help because most of us don't know which one is Crossbellian." Levi said.
"He's got a point. Maybe some of us should stay back. Because drawing too much of a group would cause unintended attention." Goofy said.
"Okay, then leave this to me and Class VII. You guys can wait here. It wont' take long." Levi said as they nodded and headed out to the East Street. "Okay, who should we ask?"
"Hmm... Oh. How about her?" Venti suggest the woman walking by.
"Excuse me." Juna called out to her.
"Hmm? Yes?" The woman turn to them.
"Sorry to bother you, but would you be interested in taking a quick survey for the Crossbell Time?" Emma asked.
The woman look at the Survey and look. "Against it. I'm against it, obviously. I'm surprised you even have to ask. A lot of my friends say they see it as a necessary evil. But I just can't accept that. Nothing about it is 'Necessary.' What were they thinking?" She wondered with a concerned look.
"I see. Thank you so much for your time." Emma smiled as they move on.
"That's one Against." Altina whisper.
"It's not a surprise." Alisa said as they see a Crossbellian name Ronald. "He looks like a local. Let's ask him." She said as she approach. "Excuse me."
"Hmm? Can I help you?" The Crossbellian asked
"Hey, buddy. We're with the Crossbell Times. Mind takin' a little survey for us?" Ash asked with a smile as he hand over the paper as he look into it.
"Hmm... Well, that law DID introduce a military stipend, so..." His eyes slowly turn duh.
'Huh?' Levi notice it and then used his powers quietly to vanish what was coming from him.
"Huh?" The Crossbellian blink. "Wait, what happened?"
"Um, you okay man?" Ash asked
"Oh, sorry. I suddenly felt something weird just now. What was that about... Anyway, it's a bad idea in my opinion."
"I see. Thanks for your time." Ash smiled as they move on. "Did you guys notice that?"
"The curse, yes. Lucky I remove it quietly." Levi whispered to the group.
"That's good to hear." Jusis said as they move onto the Harbor District.
"Okay, so where should we ask?" Altina asked.
"Hmm." Juna notice the running delivery boy. "We can ask him but look like he's busy for now." She look and spotted a man in the harbor. "But we can ask that one? Maybe?" She wondered as they approach the man at the harbor. "Oh yeah! We can ask him. He's been living in Crossbell for years." She whispered. "Excuse me." She called out as the man turn. "We're from Crossbell Time. Would you mind taking a survey for us please?"
Juna handed him the surney as the man look.
"Hmph. What do you think? I'm against it of course. Apart from the soldiers, the rest of my customers are floomy as all get-out. There got no spirit. No pride anymore. My noodles must be lamenting getting slurped up by such sad sacks."
"Right? That's what I-" Altina elbow Juna. "Oof! I-I mean, thank you for your time." She said as they head off.
"Another one for against." Altina counted quietly as they approach the delivery boy.
"Oh, excuse me!" Alisa called out to him.
"Huh? Who are you? I'm a little busy." The delivery boy said.
"It will be quick but do you have a moment for now? We're with Crossbell Times. Would you like to take a survey?" Alisa asked
"A survey, huh?" The delivery boy take the survey paper and look at it. "Well, I'm no fan of conscription, but I try to look at the bigger picture. If the Empire were to lose this war, Crossbell would be the first to fall. So using that law to strengthen the army before it all gets started is probably a good idea overall... maybe?" He sighed. "Sorry. I can't really make up my mind now... Honestly, I wish the whole war would get called off."
"Don't worry about it. Thank you for your cooperation." Alisa smiled as they headed out.
"I'll put him down as an 'Undecided'." Altina said as they went back to East Street and headed to Central Square.
"Okay, who should we ask? We need three this time." Kurt wondered before spotted a local passing by. "Oh, how about him." They approach him. "Excuse me, do you have time to answer a few questions for the Crossbell Times?"
"Hmm? I guess so. What is it?" He wondered as he look at the survey. "Are you allowed to ask questions like this? It's not treason or anything right? But... I do think it's going to have an adverse effect on the economy. Just the other day a colleague of mine got conscripted. That's one less employee at our office and still a ton of work to do. Given the circumstances, I can see why things have turned out as they are, But in the end, I'm still opposed to the whole idea."
"Thank you, that's very helpful." Kurt said as Altina check it out for against.
They begin to walk around the Central area and see two girls chatting.
"Oh, how about asking them?" Venti suggest as they approach the two girls. "Excuse me."
"Hm? Oh you're a cute one. How can we help?"
"I'm with Crossbell Time. I'm doing a survey so I was wondering if you can give me a hand?" Venti wink as he hand over the survey as the two girls look into.
"Hmm..." The Blond girl hummed. "Yeah, well, I like the governor-general and the prince and all, but that's not really the issue here. Ever since they passed that law I've been, like, on edge all the time. Everyone has. I'm super against it."
The other girl nodded. "Yeah, but I heard Rufus was involved in that Joumunwhatsit thing, so... Put me down for 'I Dunno'!"
"Okayodie then. Thanks for the help." Venti chuckled as they left.
"Okay that check out for against and undecided." Altina said as they headed to the Entertainment District.
As they walk down the district. They spotted a hostress.
"Ah, so many Erebonian male coming in lately. I wonder if something is different about them."
"I guess this one must be a local." Levi said as he approach her. "Excuse me."
"Hm?" The hostress turn around "Oh my~ How can this hostress help you?"
"Ahaha..." Levi sweatdrop. "I'm with Crossbell Times. Can we trouble you for a moment. We're doing a survey and we would like your opinion on something." Levi handed over the Survey as she look into it.
"Hmm... Well now, I'll admit a lot of the finer points go over my head. It's helped me get a lot more customers from the Empire, so that's good. But on the other hand, if the law hadn't been passed, that hussy from the capital wouldn't have come here and stole my spotlight! Hm... I guess... I dunno, really."
"Hehe. Thank you for your time. I hope things go well for you." Levi said with a wink and walk away, causing the Hostess to shudder with excitement while New Class VII sweatdrop. "What?"
"Well you made one hostress fall for you." Altina bluntly said. "Anyway, that's one undecided." She then check out.
They continue walking where they spotted a woman dress in red and white dress as she sighed and mumbled to herself about Crossbell being annexed.
"Oh, are we thinking as imperial subjects now?" She mumbled to herself.
"Here's a true-blue Crossbell citizen. Survey time!" Juna whisper with a smirk as she approach the lady. "Excuse me, we're with the Crossbell Time. Do you have a moment?" Juna asked as she ask her for a survey with the National Mobilization Law.
"Well, at first I wasn't worried about it too much But after seeing so many of my friends have to go back to Calvard after having their property here seized, I absolutely can't get behind it. Laws should exist to protect people, not punish them!"
"I see. Thank you for your time."
"One for against." Altina mark it.
They continue and spotted a man in suit with glasses.
"Hmm... A lot of Imperial Army soldiers have been coming here a lot lately. A lot of them come to blow their hard-earned mira for some fun. Haha."
"This guy seems like a local. Let's see if he'll help us." Musse whisper as she approach the man. "Pardon me. We're taking a survey for the Crossbell Time. Do you have a moment?" She asked as she hand over the survey.
"Well, aren't you a cutie? Don't you think you're a little too young for a place like this?" The man chuckled. "Anyway, the Monlization Law, huh? Personally, I don't have a problem with it. I mean, it's doing wonders for business, what with all the soldiers flooding into the city. I figured I've got to take advantage of it while I still can."
"I see. Thank you ever so much for your time." Musse giggled as they left.
"And that's one for... 'For.'" Altina said as she check it.
"Huh... Well, I guess now we know not everyone's against it." Juna whisper
"Well that's ten questionnaires filled out." Kurt said.
"And we asked people from different part of the city, as requested." Altina added
"But... what do you make of the results?" Venti asked.
"They were intriguing, to say the least." Musse replied.
"Sure, sure... So, we headin' back to the editor's office now?" Ash asked.
"Yeah. Let's head back." Levi said as they walk back to West Street and head to Crossbell Time Service building. "Grace, we're back."
"Oh welcome back! So how was it?" Grace asked as they hand over the survey reports. "Okay so six 'Against' One 'For, and three 'Undecided.'... Huh. That's a little more... or maybe I should say a little less than I was expecting."
"I thought we'd get a lot more votes for 'Against' too." Juna sighed
"It seems people saw it as an inescapable reality." Kurt remark.
"Yeah, but there is something else in play here, right?" Venti asked.
"Oh, you mean that guy before Sullivan use his powers to undo the curse?" Ash asked.
"We've seen similar things happen back in Erebonia. Look like it's started spreading to Crossbell." Alisa said.
"The Great Twilight..." Altina frown.
"I've heard rumors but I'd hoped that all they were. Looks like we can't hide from the truth anymore." Grace mumbled. "Well, thank you so much for pitching in. This has helped give me a better grasp of what's going on." She wink as she hand over a Gladeitor Belt to them. "I should have known I could count on Class VII. Maybe I'll have more work for you in the future."
"Haha... glad we can help." Juna giggled
"Um, Grace. You got a letter." Rein said as he approach her hand it over to her.
"A letter? From who?" Grace asked
"Not sure actually. The mailman just hand it over to the mail recently." Rein said as Grace begin to open the letter and then begin to read the letter.
"..!" Grace clenched her teeth.
"Grace, what's wrong?" Juna asked as they check the letter.
"If you value your life Grace Lynn, I suggest you stop what you're doing with those surveys and articles if you don't want to lose your colleagues, friends, and the people who you survey with."
"A threat letter?!" Kurt clenched his teeth.
"Seem someone must have saw us then..." Levi muttered.
"Tch... Let them threaten me all they like. It won't stop me." Grace crumbled the netter. "Don't worry about me. It wasn't the first time I received a letter like this."
"Are you sure?" Juna asked.
"Of course! Trust me. They won't know what hit 'em."
"If you say so. Okay, let's go everyone." Levi said as they took off to Crossbell Station that took them to Ursala Road.
(BGM ended)
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Twilight Green Passage)
"Okay, now that we're here. I'll summon the horses." Levi said. "That reminds me. Do some of you know how to ride horses?"
"I do." Erza said.
"I know how to ride horses." Gray said.
"Sure I know how." Natsu said.
"I've ridden them before but I'm a little rusty." Lucy said.
"I don't..." Wendy sighed.
"Me, Kirito have experience riding horses." Asuna said.
"I've also know how to ride horses." Eugeo said.
"I been practicing my riding skills so I'm okay." Sora said.
"Same for us." Goofy said as Donald nodded.
"Okay but with the limit horses we have, we might as well go in pairs." Levi said as he open a portal where the horses came out. "Okay, let's mount up to St. Ursula Hospital. But before that. We need to head to the old field exercise camp and meet up with Freddy."
"I hope this will yield some clues regarding the Pleroma Grass. It could lead us to a singularity." Altina nodded.
"Right. Let's ride." Venti said as he approach a brown horse and mount up, helping Altina.
Kurt mount up a white horse, and help Juna up. Levi mounted a brown horse and help Donald up. Sora mounted a black horse and help Goofy up. Jusis mount up a light brown horse and help Emma up. Ash mount up a black horse and help Musse up, Eugeo mount up a horse and help Alisa up, Kirito mount up a horse with Asuna's help. Natsu mount up a horse and help Lucy up, Gray mount up a horse and help Yui and Erza mount on a horse, and ride while the Exceed follow them in the air.
"Say, Levi, where did you the horses?" Lucy asked
"They're horses from the branch campus. They've been with me in Dimensional Home. A Space-like magic. But when we return to Eyrn. They're sometimes nearby a clearing where I take care of them as caretaker of the horses. Venti often helps." Levi answered
"Well, what kind of captain of the riding club would I be if I didn't help take care of them?" Venti asked.
"Hehe, reminds me of Lambert." Jusis chuckled
"Okay, let's make a right here." Levi said as they turn right to the old field camp was.
As they got there, they saw a small campfire set up.
"There's a campfire here?" Natsu Happy asked
"Hehe, there's only one person who can set up camp." Venti chuckled. "Looking how fresh the fire is he must be nearby."
"Oh, hey! It's you, guys!" A voice called out and there was Freddy with Spinarak and Krabby in the distance of the ledge.
"Freddy!" Kurt replied.
"What are you doing over there?" Altina asked.
"Hahaha! Have I ever missed you! Wow! Class VII, and your friends in the flesh!" Freddy replied. "And speaking of flesh, I JUST caught something for dinner. Care to join me?"
"Oh yeah? What did you caught?" Natsu asked as the group dismounted.
"A Crossbell Lizard!"
"A lizard?!" Lucy asked
"Freddy is... what you call a survivalist. He go into the wild and hunt." Levi explain.
"Okay, no thanks." Lucy sweatdrop.
(BGM paused)
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Little Rain)
"Anyways, how's it going with the Fisherman's Guild?" Levi asked
"Just peachy, thanks. I've been checking in with Louise regularly while investigating the area outside of the city. Hearing about what you've all been through was a real shocker. Kudos on making it out of the Gral alive!" Freddy answered
"You don't seem to be doing so badly yourself." Ash replied
"And now we know everyone from the branch campus is doing all right." Juna said.
"We still have to meet up with Valerie and Stark, though." Altina reminded.
"So, Freddy, so you have any intel worth sharing?" Musse asked.
"You bet I do. Basically, what I know falls into three categories." Freddy replied. "The first is that there's something I need to show you."
"Please don't be wired food, please don't be weird food..." Juna hoped.
"Heh. Sorry, not this time. It's something me, Spinarak and Krabby found. We figured Venti and Egret will get the most out of us."
"Oh?" Venti mused.
"Don't tell me..." Juna paused.
"Heh, come on. It'll be quicker to show you. Follow us!" Freddy said as he took off with his two Pokemon.
(BGM ended)
The group being to follow Freddy into the forest area where its nearby the tracks. They arrived at an abandon grove and reveal two soldots. One is green while the other is Dark Green, both have Thors Branch Campus Emblems on it.
(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Behind the Lore)
We then followed Freddy and we ended up at the forest area where nearby the tracks, was two green soldat.
"Yep. I knew it." Levi smiled
"That's Musse and mine Soldats!" Venti said.
"Oh, I've been looking for it everywhere!" Musse sighed in relief. "I didn't expect it would be here of all places, along with sweet Venti. Thank you so much for finding it for us, Freddy!"
"Haha, if anyone you should be thanking, it's Spinarak." Freddy replied. "He was the one who found it while Krabby and I was out looking for some grubs. But not long after, you guys showed up! It can only be fate."
"Spinarak, Spinarak!" Freddy's Spinarack respond with a cheer.
"Aww, thank you Spinarak~" Musse giggled.
"Now we have six soldats with us." Levi smiled
"Hey, Egret. How's it fair that you get your and Bard's mech, but the rest of us get jack?" Ash asked.
"Well, maybe we can do something about it." Musse wink. "What do you think, Emma?"
Emma look at the soldots. "I believe you're right. Now that we have one of us, let's give her a call." She said as she begin to call Rose. "Grandmother. We found Venti and Musse soldots. Do you think we can transport the soldots through the Spirit Path?"
"Well, the soldots are spiritually linked with the Ashen Knight. It's possible this link can be used to transport the five other units currently at the village through the Spirit Path." Roselia replied. "Now that I think about it. Sullivan, couldn't you transport the Soldots with your Dimensional Home?"
Levi blink. "Huh. Never thought of it." He said, causing the others to anime face fell.
"Seriously!? You could have done that the entire time?!" Ash yelled as he got up.
"Hehe, sorry." Levi did a playful wink.
"Well in any case. Will you give us a hand, Grandmother? We want to see for ourselves." Emma asked
"Certainly." Roselia nodded
"I'll help as well." Musse said. "After all, I have been trained by Vita, Konoe and honing my magic capabilities so I have been waiting for a chance to try out."
Emma and Roselia sweatdrop.
"Well, Rean did told me Master Mavis help increase your magic capabilities." Emma said with a nervous laugh and then they begin to work.
Emma pull her Orbal Staff as Musse get into casting position as both of them were surrounded by magical glow and a magic circle underneath. Venti and Musse's had a golden magic circle underneath there and four magic circles appeared. Musse anf Emma then finish casting their spell and then the Soldots were teleported in front of them.
"Kooke!" Freddy's Krabby exclaimed.
"Wow! Amazing!" Freddy exclaimed.
Musse giggled. "Excellent. Everything seems to have gone smoothly."
"Damn, that's pretty wild. Gotta admit, I'm impressed." Ash sighed.
"Thanks for the help Rose." Levi smiled.
"It was nothing. Just remember, though. You won't be able to send them back, so be sure to make good use of them." Roselia said. "The mana anomaly near you is quite remarkable. The other almost trivial in comparison. It could be due to the Great Twilight, but there is another possibility... In any event, be careful. It seems as though things are becoming difficult for the Heimdallr group, so don't expect any assistance from them."
"Don't worry. They got us to help them out in a jam." Natsu smirked
"Still, we should keep this in mind." Gray advised.
"Right." Sora nodded as Roselia hang up.
"Well, in any case, let's get back to the camp for now! I've still gotta fill you guys in on my two other discoveries!" Freddy said.
"Understood. I'll hide the soldats. Claiomh Solais!" Altina raised her hand and Claiomh Solais used Black Shade to hide and transport them.
(BGM ended)
The group made their way back to the field exercise camp to brief on Freddy's finding.
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Twilight Green Passage)
"Okay, so what's the other thing?" Donald asked
"The second thing I gotta tell you is some ruins we found." Freddy said.
"Ruins?" Juna responded.
"Yep. Remember the lakeside beach around here? Krabby found out that there are some odd ruins in the place you guys fought that cryptid."
"Oh, the Unsurtr?" Kurt asked.
"Ah, I remember that now." Levi nodded. "That was when we had Sharon accompanying us. We were looking for that grass and then it showed up by surprise. But how could the ruins be there?"
Musse giggled. "This is getting interesting.
"And now, discovery number three." Freddy continued. "When Krabby and I was fishing by the lake one night, we saw a faint blue light in the distance. And guess what I found? A whole bunch of Pleroma Grass."
"Blue Pleroma Grass?" Lucy asked. "You mean they're not the black color ones?"
"Right. It was the regular ol' blue strain. Whether that's significant or not, well, your guess is as good as mine."
"The variation in color might mean something. We should check it out." Emma stated.
"Whatever color it is, the fact that it's growing here could have something to do with the singularity." Jusis said. "Since it's on the way to the hospital, we may as well take a look."
Levi nodded. "Good idea, we should check the ruins along the way as well."
"Catch you later, then Freddy." Ash said. "Don't go poisoning yourself and your Pokemon with that weird crap you eat."
"Hahaha! Don't worry about me." Freddy replied. "You guys take care now."
The group went back to the horses and ride out of the field camp. They carried on Ursula Road.
"Oh... This place seems familiar." Alisa said.
"Right. That's where Sharon helped us beat a cryptid." Juna said
"And where the Stargazer Tower was to deal with the Fool, Mcburn and that Aion." Levi sighed
'The Spirit Veins are unstable here...' Emma thought before reaching the beachside.
"Oh wait. This place seem like a good spot to take a picture, don't you think?" Venti asked as the view of the sandbar. "I'll take a picture of it." He pull out his ARCUS unit and took a picture. "There we go. Now send it to Rex." He said as he begin to call Rex. "Hey Rex! We got a sweet photo you might like."
"Oh I can already feel the good. Let me take a peek." Rex said as Venti send it to him. "Whoa, not bad! Here's a lit' something for your trouble." He said and send them a picture of Vita with Hatterene, Gardevoir, Espeion, Gothitelle and Metagross.
"Wait, is that Vita and her Pokemon?" Emma gasped. "How did you manage to get a picture of her and her Pokemon?"
"Trade Secret. Later!" Rex hang up.
"Reminds me to force answers out of him." Levi sighed as they dismounted and headed to the beach.
They begin to wonder around the Beach where they spotted a few Beowolves and monsters roaming around the Beach and they took care of them. They walk into the cave nearby. Once they reach the end, they saw a ruin building suddenly appear.
"Woah! Did you see that?!" Juna asked in surprise.
"We did." Wendy nodded.
"Must be some sort of distortion." Carla sai
"Great. Another supernatural mystery to deal with." Ash sighed.
"The space here does feel a little different." Altina said.
Musse nodded. "Yes. Almost as if it's slightly out of phase, perhaps."
"Right. It seems that passing through the cave altered the dimensional space around us. This ruin shares some connection with the Spirit Shrines appearing across the Empire."
"It may not be a singularity, but it still might be worth checking out." Alisa added
"And if it's like the other two, expect this one to be a challenge." Levi said. "Let's go inside."
(BGM ended)
The group then enter the ruins.
(Super Mario Galaxy ost - Deep Dark Galaxy)
"Wow. Look at this place..." Gray said.
"So this is what these ruin look like." Erza mused. "What is this place?"
"Oh look there it is. 'Stella Shrine'." Happy read the label.
"Same deal as the ruins at Bryonia Island and Lake Gala, eh?" Ash asked
"This phenomenon seem to be occurring all over the Empire." Musse nodded
They went through the ancient door where they encounter the dungeon area.
"This area is so spacious... just like the ruins near Parm." Juna remark.
"Somewhat different from the Bryonia Island ruins, though." Ash added.
"The monsters here are particularly vicious. Let's be on our guard, everyone!" Musse advised.
They begin to go down the stairs of the ruins where they encounter monsters blocking down their path. They begin to take care of them while Lucy was shivering of the Shaman monsters. They walk around a few hall and found a stone gate.
"A Stone here? We better find a mechanism so we can-"
"FIRE DRAGON IRON FIST!" Natsu punch the gate and broke it into crumble.
"-Or we can just bust our way through. That works." Levi sweatdrop.
"Well at least we won't be asking time." Ash command as they keep going until they reach a fork in the road.
"There's a fork in the road. Which way should we go?" Erza asked
"Oh! This is my time to shine!" Lucy pull out a silver key. "OPEN! GATE OF THE-"
"Hey look, there a treasure chest here!" Happy pointed in the left area as he flew.
"Guess the other one must be a path." Eugeo said.
"OH FOR CRYING OUT LOUD CAT! WHY MUST YOU RUIN MY BIG MOMENT!?" Lucy yelled with a tick on her forehead.
"Yeah I wasn't sure which one is your big moment." Happy remark.
"Hey! I got some nice gems!" Natsu said with the 50 Sepiths.
"Those are Sepiths, Natsu! Let put them in the inventory." Wendy said as he place them there.
They begin to go to the right direction and found another fork in the road but the left one leads to the depth which Natsu destroy with his strength. They go into the Alter area.
"Whoa, is this the altar area?" Happy asked.
"It certainly looks the part." Yui nodded.
"And in the end, this is usually where it leads to a boss fight." Venti said, and right on cue, the red-loooking snake with a black jewel appeared. "Speak of the devil."
"All right, let's-!"
"FIRE DRAGON IRON FIST!" Natsu punched the monster's face and knock it back, causing it to screech in agony. "FIRE DRAGON WING ATTACK!" Then Natsu unleash a stream of fire and completely destroys it, causing it to turn into black mist.
"-Natsu take care of it..." Levi sweatdrop again.
"Well at least we won't have to worry 'bout dealing with it." Ash comment.
and a red-looking snake showed up, just like the previous two, forcing us into a battle.
(BGM paused)
Then another vision begin to surface.
"Here it comes everyone!" Levi alerted the group.
(Super Mario Galaxy ost - Sad Story)
The next vision of Obsorne watching his house being burnt down, surrounded by jaeger corpses.
"...thank the goddess...you're okay...please...I beg of you...save...our child."
Then the next vision show of Osborne holding young Rean in his arm with debris on his chest, near a woman who resembles him as Obsorne cried.
"Aidios, please! Someone answer me! Goddess or fiend, I don't care! I'll do anything...take me instead, if you must! Just please...spare our son's life!"
(BGM ended)
The vision then faded away.
"I'm sure you all saw that, right?" Levi asked. "That guy yelling had to be Osborne."
"Yes... And that child within it." Altina nodded
"Yeah... His face looked just like Instructor Rean's... Or a younger version of him, anyway." Juna sadden
"He had a serious wound on his chest, right next to his heart." Ash said.
"That woman must have been his mother." Musse sadden
(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Bond -Relations-)
Alisa, Jusis and Emma close their eyes.
"So that what happened to Rean back when he was little?" Donald asked in concern.
"He was seriously hurt... what caused this to happen?" Goofy wondered
"I don't know..." Sora touches his chest. "But I can feel Osborne cry..."
"Yeah..." Kirito nodded
"Let's get going, guys." Alisa said.
"We'll find this singularity and bring Rean back to us—one way or another." Jusis told them
"He needs to hear about what we saw in that vision!" Emma added
Altina nodded. "Agreed!"
"Yeah, let's get outta here." Levi replied as they leave the Shrine.
Another vision... another reason to rescue Rean as soon as possible. Oh yeah, who was this mysterious person Campanella and Noel met. Find out in the coming chapters