Trails of Cold Steel: Twilight Saga

by mysteryfriend16

The Great Twilight and Rean's been capture by Osborne and the Gnomes. Class VII, old and new, join by everyone throughout the world begin their plan to stop Osborne, and the Great Twilight. With war on the horizon that leads to the end of the world, they seek answers, and plan to rescue Rean in the progress. Will they save the world before the war or darkness consume all?

25. Back to School

Dateline August 29 1206 Tuesday

(Fire Emblem Warriors Three Hopes ost - On Thin Ice)

"Okay, today is the operation!" Amy said in the computer. "Are you guys ready?"

"Yes. Though I beginning to feel nervous." Altina admits.

"I know what you mean. It'll be our first time back in quite a while." Musse agreed.

"Yeah, I can imagine..." Sora scratching his hair, nervously.

"You guys will be leading on Avon Hills right?" Aqua asked. "That's on the eastern tip of Lamare if I remember correctly."

"Yep. The 3rd Air Fleet's been put in charge in Heimdallr's air defenses. Word on the street is they've been developing Gargantua- Class Vessels." Tails nodded.

"I remember seeing them on our way to Crossbell." Juna said, looking down.

"It's a type of battleship one of the Imperial Army's trump card." Elliot recalled.

"Passing through an air defense network like that would be a task of the highest order, even with the Merkabah." Gaius said. "It's a good thing we managed to find a branch in the security coming in from the west."

"And you guys will be going to the north side of Lake Gala, through Mishante." Shez said. "I remember we used to travel there when we were helping you out." Shez said.

"Speaking off, what were you guys looking for anyway?" Ash asked.

"Oh, let's just say something to take back home."

"In any case. You'll be making a detour around Grenville, and thus, the conscripted offices. With the conscription reaching the skyrocketing level, the area is sure to be on high alert." Mona agreed

"And I'll be a lot easy to get into Leeves." Cream smiled

"Chao chao." Cheese agreed.

"It strays a bit too close to the mountain the Black Workshop is in for my liking before Kokonoe had it blow up as payback to Black Alberich." Emma said.

"Well Kokonoe did us a huge favor. But I'm more surprise how well prepare she was too." Celine said. "She practically driven the Gnomes out of their secret hideout."

"Be sure to contact me once you've found your way in, okay?" Towa smiled. "Those of us in the Halbard will be working on some diversionary tactics."

"Me and Ordine should be able to get some of those Imperial Defense Force head turning." Crow added

"A few 'disturbances' on the surface should certainly cause a fair bit of commotion as well." Laura said.

"We'll make sure those accursed soldiers get scarely even a moment of peace." Duvalie added.

"Lucky, with this many of us, there won't be a problem." Megaman said.

"Right. Catching them by surprise is our specialty at this rate." Snake said.

"We'll have to make sure we coordinate with the guild, and everyone else from the branch campus, too." Fie stated

"How about you, Agate, Noel, Makoto, Tsubaki, Tao? You in?"

"Meow, you can count on us, meow!" Taokaka cheered

"Did you need to ask?" Makoto Nanaya palm fist. "We'll hit them right where it hurts!"

"Hah. Took the words right out of my mouth." Agate smirked.

"Agate..." Tita lookat him with a concern look.

"Hey now. I ain't ever seen a top-secret infiltration operative make a face like that before. It's your time to shine, Tita. You got this. Now's your chance to show that old coot just how much the branch campus has taught you. Plus, you got your Pokemon with you. You can count on them too."

Tita nodded with a smile. "You're right. You be careful, too, Agate!"

Alfin look at the team with concern. "Rean, Levi, everyone... You absolutely must succeed in this. She's in there waiting for you, Rean. Waiting for you to come rescue her... I just know it."

"She won't have to for much longer." Rean nodded.

"Not if we have something to say about it." Musse added

"We'll make sure to give Prince Cedric your regards, if we see him." Kurt nodded

"Thank you, Kurt. I would appreciate that. May Aidios and the other gods's grace protect you all!" Alfin smiled.

"You'll have my Remote Order to support you as well! Now, let's go, everyone! The fate of the branch campus is in our hands!"

"Right!" Everyone nodded in agreement.

The Halberd then took off toward Avon Hills where they will drop off Rean's team to Leeve.

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Towards that Land)

Upon arriving, they hop off the ledge as Levi was seen, bringing the Valimar and the other soldots into his Dimensional Home and then join the team.

"Ahh. The sweet breeze of this fresh air." Venti sigh with satisfaction

"These are the Avon Hills, where we teleported before." Altina said.

"We should be far enough off the beaten track to avoid the IDF patrols." Ash added.

"I imagine they're still keeping a close eye on the roads, though." Musse pointed out.

"True, the last time we were here, we got to Milsante through the teleportation stone, so let's use that as a starting point." Levi suggested.

Rean nodded. "Agreed, we shouldn't let our guard down until we get to Milsante."

"I think we're pretty close by from here." Tita called

"Oh, yeah, we'll get there in no time at all! We'll show you guys the way." Juna nodded.

The team then took off to reach Milstante Byroad as they spotted monsters that are minding their own business until they reach Byroad.

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Twilight Green Passage)

"We've gotta pass under the tracks to get to the highway." Ash told them.

"An Milsante's just to the right from there." Juna added

"We could teleport to Lake, but it's a bit boring. Especually we wanted to guide our Instructor." Venti chuckled.

"Hehe. How considerate of you." Rean chuckled.

"Make sure your Orbal Gear is fully operational, Tita." Kurt reminded her

"Yo got it!" Tita nodded as they reach the road.

"So we turn right here." Rean said as they make a right turn.

"Yes. It doesn't seem like there are any patrols at the moment." Altina nodded.

"With the war so close, they must have rerouted most of their troops to the borders." Musse said.

"It won't surprise me if they did." Levi said as they arrived in Milsante.

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Wind Across the Water)

"Hmm, it's as sleepy as usual here." Juna said.

"The Imperial Defense Force doesn't seem to have touched this place." Kurt added.

"You're right. And that's also a good sign too." Levi nodded before heard Musse's soft giggle just now. "What's up, Musse?"

"It's nothing. I'm just feeling a little nostalgic, that's all." Musse replied with a smile.

"Oh yeah? Why's that?" Venti asked

'I used to come here a lot with my parents back when I was a child."

"Ah. I guess you have quite a few memories of this place, huh?" Juna asked

"No point in just standing here." Ash told them. "Let's get started."

Right. We need to look into this detour to Leeve." Venti agreed.

"The north side of Lake Gala." Rean said. "I think we should ask one of the townsfolk for directions. This is my first time here. Might be best to check out the town first."

Altina nodded "Yes. We might get some information on Leeves."

"Sounds like a plan. In that case, let's be off." Levi nodded as they took off toward the White Birch Inn and there they see Sidney, Loise, Tatianna and Josette with their Pokemon.

"Hey! If it isn't Class VII, Levi, and Instructor Rean!" Sidney said happily.

"And Tita! So you were safe all along, huh?" Louise added.

Josette giggled. "It looks like you managed to all find each other."

"Josette! It's been too long!" Tita replied.

"Sidney, Tatiana and even Louise!" Kurt added

"It's great to see you all again, but we're here to find out something important." Levi reminded.

"Yeah, we've got the same endgame, right? Leeves?" Sidney asked "When we found out a friend and family of yours were trapped there, we know we had to do something Instructor.

"Wayne and Jessica are also in Leeve. But we also received word that the other branch campus students were already on their way... So Josette and I worked together to gather those who were nearby."

"Really? Hehe, who know our secret network would be this much resorceful." Musse giggled.

"Thank you so much for helping, Josette." Rean smiled.

"You don't need to thank me. Leevees is my home, after all." Josette chuckled. "And besides, I've been through a whole lot with Class VII. There was no way I could just ignore them in their time of need. Even Delibird agreed."

"Delibird!" Josette's Delibird nodded in agreement.

"Well, it is what it is. You're all breaking in after this, right?"

"We've identified an infiltration route, but our battle capacity isn't exactly ideal. We were just talking about trying to gether more of the branch campus students, but..." Sidney paused

"Then, we'll take the lead." Ash fold his arm.

Altina nodded in agreement. "Yes, we need to free those bring held as quickly as possible."

"Aw, you guys..." Sidney let out a smile.

Louise giggled. "I think it's best if we leave things here to you. According to the townsfolk, there is another route to Leeves beyond the roadblock on the byroad." Louise explained.

"We've already received permission to pass through, but there's also the risk of monsters, so..." Tatiana added.

"You can leave that to us, we'll clear a path for you all." Levi declared.

"You should meet up with the other branch campus students before heading on to Leeves." Rean said.

"Got it! We're counting on you, Class VII!" Sidney replied. "You too, Tita."

"L-Leave it to me!" Tita nodded

"Let' try going down the byroad." Kurt advised as they leave the Inn.

The team show Rean the pathway that will lead them toward Lake Gala.

(BGM ended)

(Resuming Twilight Green Passage)

"And here is the passage to Lake Gala. You'll be surprised how beautiful it is up close." Levi smiled

"I can imagine. It look like there's a lot of water Pokemon in this area too." Rean said.

"No kidding. Aside from there. There's also the Luna Shrine we told you about. But that place isn't our top priority for now." Levi said before they see the blockade. "And there's the blockade. Lucky, we got permission to move it." He said as they reach the blockade and then move it out of the way while Rean contacted Towa.

"All right, all clear." Venti said. "This should bring us back to the road Loise told us about.

"With that out of the way, it should be smooth sailing to Leeves." Towa said. "We'll be watching for the right moment to start the diversion."

"Thanks. Be careful out there." Rean smiled

"You, too!" Towa replied as they hang up.

"Let's get moving. We don't have a moment to lose." Rean said

"This road hasn't been maintained in a long time. It's probably crawling with monsters." Tita remark.

"All the more reason we should be on guard. Come on." Venti said as they took off before seeing the spot on the lake as they got closer to see the waterfalls in the distance.

"Oh, wow. This looks unreal!" Juna said in awe.

'Yeah, I don't think I've ever seen anything like it. And we seen several beautiful scenery in the Mushroom Kingdom and beyond." Rean smiled.

"No kidding. This place show you how beautiful Erebonia is." Levi smiled.

"Wouldn't it be lovely to go out on the water, Instructor?" Musse asked with her flirty tone. "Just the two of us, of course~"

"M-Musse!" Tita said, blushing. "You can't just say things like that!" 'B-But... it would be nice with Agate.'

"Aside from Musse's usual flirting. This is a great spot to take a picture and send it to Rex. Though I wonder what his photo will be this time." Levi said. "The last one was somehow, Shirley and Mariabell."

"Yeah, I'm not sure how that guy managed to pull those off." Ash shrugged as Levi take the picture and then called Rex.

"Hey, Rex, We got a photo that we're gonna set to you."

"Sweet! You're just in time!" Rex said as Levi send it to him. "Whoa-oh-ooh! Now that's one heck of a pic! Here's a lit' somethin' for your troubles." He said, sending them a picture of Elie and Cecile.

"Wait, is that Elie and Cecile?!" Juna gasped.

"Later!" Rex said before he hang up.

"One of these days, that guy is gonna get bite." Levi sighed.

"Yeah, I still have some interigation on him too." Rean said.

"Then maybe we can count Lloyd on that front." Juna said with a grinned as they took off.

"You know, wasn't there a legend about this lake?" Levi wondered.

"Yes. According to legend, a creature with a strange name lurks under the surface of this lake." Altina nodded.

"I know that one! Gallie! Lame-ass name for it if you ask me." Ash said.

"Seriously? Why the heck they name is Gallie?" Venti wondered.

"Probably because some drunk made it up." Levi said.

"Yeah, I can totally see that." Juna agreed.

"Seeing this errie lake, I wouldn't be surprised if some strange creature really did live in it." Kurt said.

"I just hope the Water Pokemon don't get caught up in it." Tita sighed as they soon arrive to a passage and they see four Death Pisces surrounding a Skarmory who's injured.

"That's Skarmory is in danger! We need to help it!" Kurt said.

"Right. Let's go everyone!" Rean said as they all got their weapons out and Tita summon her Orbal Gear and then equip for battle and take on the monsters.

Joining them were the Ice Dromes as Levi use Pentrate Hurl on them while Venti and Musse shoot their bullets and arrows onto the monsters. Ash and Kurt let out a few swings onto the monsters while Rean let out one slash after the other to the monsters. The Ice Drones begin to cast Orbal Arts onto the team but Tita fire bullets onto them and the Death Pisces begin to bite toward Kurt but he quickly dodged them while one bite Levi's Glaive and onto a power struggle until he overwhelms it with his strength and toss it over him.

"Elsa's Frost Lance!" Musse wave her hand and large spears of ice was thrown onto the monsters to freeze them as Ash's axe glow a red energy and then unleash a barricade of slashes onto them with some blood effect onto them.

Kurt then imbue his sword with green and blue energy and then unleash a series of slashes before launching a horizontal Cartwheel slash as Tita rush in and slam her orbal gears fist on the monsters with a shockwave, then she follow up by firing rapid bullets and then charge fist knock electricity onto them, killing them as they turn into purple mist.

"Wow, Tita. Your Orbal Gear is really something." Levi praised.

"I agreed. The Orbal Gear lll never fails to impress." Kurt agreed

"Yes, I think it's working better than when we used it at the Keep." Musse added

"That's science in action! Heehee. It's all thanks to the great test data you got me and some improvement during our time in the Mushroom Kingdom." Tita smiled. "Plus, the professor gave me a few tips to work some of the kicks. The day I fulfill the promise I made to Renne might not be so far away after all."

"Hey, That's great." Rean smiled "Honestly? I feel like we should thank you all over again."

"Huh? For what?"

"Well, I know you must want to go back to your friends. You could've gotten off the ship with Agate, but you chose to help us instead."

"Ah, I see what you mean. You're right." Levi nodded. "I was also worried that you might feel homesick as well."

"You're really putting yourself though the wringer for us, Tita." Juna nodded

"Frankly. I'm surprised ol' Red didn't send us off with a warning to have you back by midnight by decree of a huge freakin' sword." Ash comment.

"Oh, it's not so strange, really." Tita replied. "I mean, I care deeply about you and my classmates, so it's only natural I'd want to help. Just like I'd do anything for Estelle, Joshua, Eula, Jean, and Renne, I want to show up the same support you've shown me."

"You truly are a strong girl, Tita." Levi smiled.

"Thank you, Levi. I've made my choice, and I'm sticking to it. Right now, I'm a Thor's branch campus student first and foremost. That's what set me apart from the others. That's why I have to be the one to do this. I told Agate all this last night, and he understood."

"I'm impressed my friend." Venti smiled

Musse giggled. "It's nice to know we mean that much to you."

"And it does make me happy too."

"It's an honor to have you with us. I'm proud to call myself your schoolmate." Kurt smiled

"Heh. Cute story, but what happened AFTER the big talk?" Ash smirked "Something tells me you two didn't just share your fee-fee and then call it a night."

"Ooh, now that you mention it Ash." Venti also smirked

"Wh-Wh- What are you implying? We didn't do anything!" Tita exclaimed "I mean, he just gave me this gentle smile and patted my head…"

"Aww, that's so cute!~ Ash, Venti, let the lady have her secrets." Juna said.

"As head pats go, this one was probably more innocent than the kind the Instructor gives out." Altina replied

"Ah yeah, I see what you mean by that Altina. Hahaha." Levi let out a light chuckled.

"Heehee. I don't think Instructor Rean realizes the implications of what he's doing half the time." Musse wink.

"You might be right. I hope I don't turn out like that, too." Kurt nodded.

'I'm RIGHT here, you guys.' Rean frowned in his thought as Levi placed his arm around him with a wink.

"Oh we're just joking Rean. You know we love you." Levi chuckled.

"Thanks." Rean then clear his throat. "At any rate, we're all really grateful to you for coming Tita." He said as Levi remove his arm from him. "I'm sure we'll make this infiltration a success- together."

"Thanks! You can count on me!" Tita smiled

"Before we forget. Don't forget the injured Skarmory." Levi turn to the Skarmory.

"Oh shoot! How did we forget?!" Juna exclaimed as they examine the scary.

"It look seriously hurt after that battle against those monsters." Kurt said.

"Skar..." Skarmory groaned.

"Shh, it's okay, the monsters are gone now." Kurt said, comforting the wild Skarmory as she took out his beg and pull a Full Restore and heal the Skarmory. "Here, eat this." He pull out a Sitrus Berry and fed it to its mouth as it show on it.

"Skar. Skarmory!"

"There there. There's a Pokemon Center in Leeve but, our option is to take you with us to find another Pokemon Center. Is it okay if I capture you?"

"Skarmory."

"Thank you." Kurt pull out a Pokeball and then tap it's head and it went it, roll three times until click. "All right. Let's get you to a Pokemon center where you can feel better."

"It also means Skarmory can be your Partner too. Just so you know." Levi said.

"Right. With that said. Let's go." Rean said as they took off until they spotted a Trial chest.

"Oh look, there's Trial Chest! Musse pointed as they approached it.

"Huh? I feel like it's calling to me." Tita said.

"Me too. Guess that means we're one of the people for a trail, huh?" Juna asked

"Looks like it. But it seems we're missing someone. Better make a note of it." Altina said as they mark it down and took off again until they reach the West Side road.

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - towards that Land)

"Hey, this is the road we took when King Boo trapped us in that painting, didn't he?" Levi asked

"Yeah. It was another lesson to never let out guard down with his Boo henchman." Rean nodded until they see the railway line leading to Leeves.

"And here we are. The west road to Leeve. Which is very close too."

"Oh, good! We should be fine from here." Tita nodded

"Oh, there you are. Had me thinking you guys might never show." A voice spoke as they turn and see Randy resting on a tree with a Tepig. "Lookin' good, Class VII. I see you brought Tita along for the ride as well."

"Randy?!" Juna asked in surprise. "Where did you come from? Also is that a Tepig?"

"And how did you manage to sneak your way here?" Levi also asked.

"You should know you can't hide anything from Tio Tot. Towa gave us a call too, so I figured I'd book it over here before you left. I'll be tagging along from here on out. Gotta do my part as Class VIII's instructor."

"Instructor Randolph." Kurt smiled

"Heh, still tryin' to act cool." Ash said.

"We'd be glad to have you with us." Altina added.

"As for Tepig here. Found this little guy while lookin' Tio Tot. Poor guy was abandoned by it's trainer. Arrogent shit he is. So I've taken him under my wing and became my little buddy and partner. He has grown well for the past four days."

"Tepig!" Randy's Tepeg cheered.

"Aww, you're so cute I wanna cuddle you~" Juna said cooing at Tepig. "But to think it previous trainer abandon something this cute! Ooh when I see that punk I'll punch him where it hurts."

"Welcome aboard, Tepig. We'll be counting on you." Rean smiled

"Tepig!"

"And with that, let us be off. Elise and Tio are waiting for us" Levi reminded.

"Yeah, we better book it now." Randy replied. "The Halberd creating a diversion as we speak. The IDF is going to have its hands full for a while. If we're gonna sneak in, now's the best time. Everybody ready?"

"Of course." Musse nodded

"Yeah, let's go." Rean responded as they walk their way to Leeve.

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Things to tell you.)

The Team made their way to the west entrance and on that very way, they see the Dormitory.

"Our dorm." Kurt said.

Juna let out a light laugh. "We're finally back after so long."

"I'm feeling nostalgic already. Just like the civil war. This dorm was our new home, although I wasn't the assistant at the time until a month later." Levi patted Rean on the shoulder. " Even so, We did it, my friend."

Rean did the same. "Yeah. The longest month and a half of our lives, we're back home."

"I think this feeling might be...nostalgia." Altina said. "Considering I don't have a hometown, I never expected to feel this way."

"Aww, Allie. It's only natural to feel that about this place." Juna smiled

Musse let out a light giggled. "We only lived here a few months at most, and yet..."

"To us branch campus students, it's like a second home." Kurt finished.

Tita nodded. "Yeah, I feel just the same."

"It truly is something we will always remember." Venti smiled

"Eh, it's not bad, I'll give it that much." Ash said.

'Man, right in the feels.' Randy whispered to Rean and Levi.

'Moments like this are what make out job worth it.' Rean smiled.

'You're right. I feel truly like home.' Levi nodded with a smile until he look serious. 'But...'

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Temporally Speculation)

Levi look around as he hummed. "But somehow, this town feels...deserted. Let's check the dorm first, then the town, and head to the academy last."

"Right." Juna nodded as they head into the dorms. "Wow, coming in here really brings back memories. But... where is everybody?"

"I heard the dormitory was being used by the main campus students, so it shouldn't be unoccupied." Altina said.

"And yet, no one's here at all. Even the upper floors are completely deserted." Rean added.

"You notice it too. Something is off here." Levi nodded

"If that's coming from you two, this place really must be a ghost town." Randy muttered.

"What should we do? Take a look around?" Tita asked.

"Yeah, we might find some clues." Venti nodded.

"Then it's decided. Let's split up." Musse suggested

"Bet those main campus assholes throw all our stuff aside." Ash remark.

"If it did, then we know who to complain." Levi said as they begin to look around their rooms.

Each and everyone look around their rooms as they split up. As they look around their rooms. Nothing has chance. They headed to the other students room and find out nothing has chance as well. In Rean's room, he spotted some of Elise's belonging, while in Randy's room, he spotted Shirley's belonging and sighed. Levi went to Aurelia's room and spotted some chances in her room as it seem Cedric was using it. Levi look upset and mad before heading back.

"Well, it looks like they haven't touched our rooms, after all." Juna said.

"They brought bags in, so it would be fair to assume they were staying overnight." Altina added.

Kurt nodded. "It looks like they did their best not to disturb our things."

"Yeah. I was expecting they would do something so uncivil yet they didn't do anything of the sort." Venti added

"They even left our photos here." Tita said.

"Somethin' smells off if you ask me." Ash agreed. "It ain't like those guys to act all civil."

"Well, we've missed quite a lot since we were last here. Perhaps they've changed." Musse said. 'However, it does worry me that Maya's belongings are nowhere to be found...'

"I'm guessing it's because of Michael or they're staying somewhere else." Levi said before turning to Rean. "So how your room, Rean?"

"It looks like Elise stayed in my room for a bit. She left some of her things behind." Rean replied. "But she couldn't have stayed for long. A few days, maybe?"

"Shirley's been taking up my room. She's got her crap lying around all over the place." Randy sighed. "Not to mention, Michael's room look like it's still in use."

"Speaking of... I went to Aurelia's room and notice Cedric decided to use it. However, it seem his arrogance once again took over. That crest of Erebonia and knight sword belong to him. No doubt about it." Levi grumbled.

"I see..."

"I don't believe the prince realize what he's getting himself into." Altina said.

"Oh yeah. Doesn't matter how high up the totem pole you are when you piss off that force of nature." Ash agreed.

"Maybe he needs a few spanks to teach him a lesson~" Musse giggled

"Oh I can imagine some very good spanks come in mind, to let his arrogance be a lesson to him." Levi agreed. "However, If the curse has taken hold of Cedric then that would explain his arrogance. The Empress did felt like the curse may be the cause. If so. I may need to purge that curse out of him."

"I guess It's good to know that the main campus students have shown a little consideration. But we're done searching here, let's move on." Rean said.

"Right. We have to find Elise, Tio and the others!" Juna nodded.

They begin to leave the dorm and enter the town, they headed for Palin Boutique as they see familiar faces.

"Hey, aren't you guys from the branch campus? Wow, it's weird seeing you out of uniform."

"Is it okay for you to be here with the IDF just outside? I heard they put you on a wanted list!"

"It should be fine. Their security's a little lose right now." Rean said.

"That's good. We were all really worried because we thought it might be hard for you all of you to come home with the Imperial Defence Force everywhere."

"The IDF guys are so scary. Ugh, everything sucks. Even some of the students that are here now don't like them."

"I see..." Kurt said. 'The main campus students aren't completely unified after all...'

"So what happened to you guys? Is everyone in Leevee inside their homes?"

"That's right. We were all ordered to stay in doors. You can talk to the mayor. He should tell you more."

"Got it. Let's go everyone." Rean said as they took off to the Mayor's house.

"Okay, here we are at the mayor's house. I remember his son work at the branch campus." Levi said.

"Hold on, I know that voice!" A voice said as they see Franky. "Class VII... The exchange student and instructor Randy too!"

"Hey, Franky! How have you been? I see you look well." Levi smiled.

"So you guys are back? That's great! We've been worried about you. But what about Instructor Rean? Isn't he with you?"

"Haha... I cna't blame you for not recognizing me." Rean said, scratching his cheek.

"Uh..." Franky blink. "No way! Could it be? What on earth happened?!"

"It's a long complicated story. Let's talk inside and we'll go over the details." Levi said as they go in and take a seat. "Okay, I'll try to explain the best I can. Rean has gone through some... supernatural changes that was caused by a supernatural force called the curse of Erebonia. That curse changed his appearance. How it happened was a crazy story, but basically, the curse was realized and he was taken captive by Chancellor Osborne and his evil group who is starting this war. The battle that happen in the capital exhausted us and almost everyone was pass out for two weeks. After recovering, we been through all over the empire to search for clues to Rean's Whereabout. After some hard work and a lot of help from our friends. We found Rean and the location he was imprisoned. So we prepared a rescue mission by infiltrating it, Rescue Rean, knock some sense into him and force to battle Osborne who arrived as one reinforcement. Although we managed to push him back, our reinforcements took care of the chancellor reinforcements and we begin to retreat after a heavy battle. Afterward, Rean was unconscious for a day during his imprisonment and now we're here on a rescue mission to search for our other friends and students who are being held capture. And that's why we're here."

"I see... I don't really understand the details, but it sounds like you've been through a lot." Franky turn to Rean with a smile. "Even though you've chanced, you're still Instructor Rean, right? You're the same guy that helped me- a mess of a man- takes the first steps toward my new dream of becoming a Bracer Guild receptionist!"

Rean let out a light laugh. "That's right... Something like that did happen, huh?"

Levi turn his Rean, raising an eyebrow. "Did you forget, Rean?"

"Not exactly but... If you can, I'd like it you treat me the same as always."

"A lot has happened in Leeves as well. Some of the students and instructors from the main campus have set up at the branch campus." Venti said.

"Yeah, I didn't know what to make of it, at first. It was just me and Gina left, so they'd push the mental chores and stuff onto us. But besides the prince, they're actually getting along with us pretty well." Franky said.

"Wow, really?" Juna said.

"I thought they'd be strutting around like they own the place." Ash fold his arms.

"I thought so, too, before we checked the dorms, but it doesn't seem like they've been behaving that way." Rean agreed.

"The guy back in Palin Boutique mention you were all force to be indoors right?" Randy asked

"Yeah, they asked us all to stay inside until everything's been taken care of. They said something about not knowing how to make it up to the branch campus if us townsfolk ended up in trouble."

"Is that so?" Levi rub his chin. "Sounds like the main campus has some sort of plan."

"Yeah, I'd like to know what it is, exactly." Rean nodded

Franky snapped his finger. "I've got it! you guys should go to Neinvalli. You can get some more information about the main campus from the people there."

"By people... you mean Jessica and Wayne right?" Juna asked

"How did you know?"

"Our secret network. Still, I'm impressed they're the one that went to Leeves ahead of us." Rean said as he got up. "Let's head straight for the exchange shop and see what we can find out!"

"Right. Cya Franky." Levi nodded as they got up.

"Later, everyone!" Franky wave them goodbye as they took off to Neinvalli.

"Okay, Jessica and Wayne should behind here, right?" Venti asked.

"Yeah, I can sense someone inside." Levi nodded as Rean knock on the door.

"Hello? Jessica? Wayne? You there."

"W-Wait! Wasn't that-?" A voice gasped inside.

"Instructor Rean?" Another voice said as the door was unlocked. "The door's open. Come on in!"

(BGM paused)

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Fleeting Homecoming)

Then they go in and see Jessica and Wayne with their Pokemon.

"Class VII...Instructor Randolph! Tita, too." Jessica replied.

"Whoa... I remember during the call but... Wow... your hair really did chance upclose." Wayne said

"You're not the first. But it's been a long time since I've seen either of you face to face." Rean nodded

"Good to see you both. So how are you guys? Are you doing well?" Levi asked.

"Yes, we're doing fine. I'm sure you all met up with Louise, Sidney and the others went to Millsante, right?"

"Sure did! They've been working really hard, just like you guys."

"I take it you two came here because you had some information regarding the branch campus?" Musse asked.

Wayne nodded. "That's right... We received word about some concerning movements. Prince Cedric and that girl with the red hair set out alone yesterday."

"So Cedric and Shirley left the coot, huh?" Levi fold his arm. "Pity." He said, noticing Kurt looking down.

"Shirley's with him, huh? I heard she'd joined the main campus." Randy sighed.

"They chose now to leave Leeve? Just the two of them?" Rean wondered.

"Hmm, there has to be a reason why those two have left." Levi hummed.

"We don't have any more details at the moment. The Main campus students who remained are currently gathered at the branch campus." Jessica told them.

"They've been instructed to look after the 'guests' who arrived around the time His Highness left. They must be talking about Instructor Rean sister and Instructor Randy's friend with their Pokemon."

"Yeah. Levi was spot on as usual." Rean said.

"Well, if we're all decided, then let's get going!" Juna said until Kurt's ARCUS Alpha ringing.

(BGM ended)

"Oh! Someone calling me?" Kurt look at his ARCUS Alpha and see who's calling.

"Who's calling you?" Levi asked as he look at the ID. "You got to be kidding." He said as Kurt answer and put it on hologram called and see Ada, Fritz, Michael and Schmidt

(Resuming Temporally Speculation)

"Greetings, Class VII." Ada greeted.

"Well met, Vander. It's been quite some times since our little altercation in the Osgiliath Basin." Fritz added

"You two?!" Juna asked

"Ada?! Frintz?!" Kurt added

"Michael and Old Man Schmidt, too!" Randy also added

"Schwarzer, Sullivan, and Orlando." Michael said. "I had a feeling you might come."

"Hmph. Consider me mildly impressed you've made it this far, Fourth Disciple." Schmidt praised with a slight sarcastic tone.

"Professor..." Tita trailed off.

Levi roll his eyes. "Spare us your unwanted sarcasm. It does not surprised me that you anticipated our arrival."

"We heard the news and Levi's hunch was on the mark. Elise and Tio with you, correct?" Rean asked.

"Correct. We have taken the liberty of preparing a secure location for their safekeeping." Michael replied. "As such, no harm has befallen them. Of that, you can rest assured."

"I see. Very courteous of you."

"Considering this call, you're going to tell us if we want to save the captives you hold, we need to get through to you, hmm?" Levi said

"Your insight knows no bounds it seems. It falls to us to preserve the main campus' honor in the princes's absence." Fritz answered. "You'll need to defeat us if you wish to see our guests released."

"It doesn't surprise me considering our last two operations. I take it you, your fellow Class I are in the branch campus?"

"Correct. You earn your reputation well." Ada said. "Awaiting you are some of the main campus' finest students, numerous instructors, our powerful Pokemon, and a few archaisms and Dr. Eggman's robots as well. You won't be getting through our defenses so easily, even with your Instructor and assistant."

"Your final destination is Einhel Keep." Schmidt added. "But bear in mind, you'll need a key card to get in. This will be the final trial, your most formidable yet. I look forward to seeing how you plan to survive it."

The video call ended.

"My, how cheeky they are. They clearly underestimate us. Still, judging from how they're behaving..." Levi paused.

"I bet they're the same as the 4th Armored Division." Venti sighed.

"Thinking back, they didn't appear fully committed at the basin." Kurt agreed.

"Are they trying to confirm something from a battle with us?" Juna wondered. "If that's the case, we can't back down now!"

"Yes, whether it's the main campus or the branch campus, we are still students of Thors Military Academy." Musse nodded.

"I guess we have to show these guys WE'VE got backbone." Ash said.

"And the skills to boot as well." Venti added.

"I-I'll do my best!" Tita declared

"Good. As soon as we're ready, we'll move out!" Rean added. "Jessica, Wayne, can you contact the Halberd?"

"Leave it to us, Instructor." Wayne replied.

"Once we make contact, we'll join up with you!" Jessica nodded.

The group then leave the exchange shop and they made their way to the branch campus where their next fight awaits.

(BGM ended)

"We will now commence our infiltration of Thor's branch campus!" Rean declared "Tita, and Randy, back us up! All right, everyone, let's move out!"

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Break In)

"Right!" Everyone nodded and rushed in and arrive at the main entrance

"There they are!" A voice reveal to be one of Class I students, accompany them were Archaisms, Eggman robots and their Pokemon, Raticate, Vulpix and Marowak.

"Looks like we got our first barrier." Venti said.

"Heh, must be the ones that missed out on field exercises at the capital." Ash grinned.

"Don't underestimate us! We've got our pride!" The male student argued.

"We won't let you anywhere near Ada and Fritz." The female student added

"Well, we're not backing down, either!" Juna declared as they pull out their weapons.

"Right, so show us, Class I!" Levi yelled as Juna and the others called out their Pokemon companions.

Rean link with Levi, Juna link with Kurt, Altina with Venti, Musse with Ash, and Tita with Randy.

Rean Pokemon link with Greninja, Levi's Pokemon link with Altaria, Juna's pokemon link with Quaxwell, Kurt's Pokemon link is with Honedge, Altina's Pokemon link with Archen, Venti's Pokemon link is with Ducklett, Musse's Pokemon link with Gligar while holding Razer Fang in it position, Ash Pokemon link with Aron, Tita pokemon link with Magemite, and Randy Pokemon link with Tepig.

While the male campus students one pokemon link with Raticate, the other male with Vulpix and the female student pokemon link with Marowak.

Tri-Attacker R2, Tri-Attacker HG, Egg Guardian, Egg Hammer

Rean and Greninja were the first to attack as Rean use True Crimson Slash as Greninja use Water Shiruken toward the Archaisms. The Male One student block with his sword but it went though as he was push back as Levi then dash forward to the Archaisms and slash them as Altaria used Moonblast onto the Egg Guardian. The female students begin firing toward the team as she move to her left as Marowak swirl his bone and dash toward to strike Altina. But Archen use Ancient Power to intercept as Altina created bombs and throw them toward the female student where she jump and return fire toward Altina until Venti shot her arm and Ducklett use Bubble Beam on Marowak and it's super effective.

The Egg Hammer swing his hammer toward Randy as they swing at each other until Tepig use headbutt on it to unbalance it and then Randy then launch a strong swing as Tita rush toward the other Egg Hammer and battle it as it swing at Tita who use her Orbal Gear arm to block and then begin to punch it, but the Egg Hammer block it with it hammer, pushing it away and then jump to the air to swing at Tita, until Musse fire orbal shots at it, shield itself with the hammer until Ash swing to its side and strike it. The Tri-Attacker R2 firing bullets onto the team until Honedge use Shadow Claw on it while Kurt let out a series of slashes onto it and it explode. Juna fire bullets toward the main campus students while Quaxwell use Aqua Cutter onto Tri-Attacker HG and explode on it while the other HG send out wavelength to attack it while Egg Guardian fire a cannont toward Levi.

Levi flip to his left as one Male student attack him by slahsing him, but Levi block and counterattack and struck the student while Rean follow up by slashing him. Rean took a defensive stand as the student swing at him a few times before they swing at each other until Rean move swiftly around the student and let out a series of slashes on him. Levi.

"Crimson Gale!" Randy use his craft: Crimson Gale onto the students and Archaism and strike them as Tita fire bullets onto them as they block with their weapons, but Juna, Ash, and Kurt let out their attacks onto them. Rean then use Arcane Gale on them and strike them while Levi follow up by slashing the female student and her Marowak.

Vulpix use Flamethrower onto Venti and strike him as the sword student begin to rush to him and slash him. As Venti took damage he block the next attack with his bow and then kick his face, but he block it with his arm until Venti launch some punches of his own on the other male student and then slide kick to knock him to the ground and Ducklett use Bubble Beam on him.

The other student begin to slash with Kurt as they swing their sword at each other until Kurt block and parry as Juna then punch him to push him back as Honedge use Iron Head.

"Ugh!" The student grunted as Raticate use Hyper Fang onto Juna.

"Ngh!" Juna grunted as Taticate also use Fury Swipe on her but she use her Gunbreakers to shield herself until Quaxwell use Low Sweep and it was super affective.

Ash swing his axe onto the female student who block his attack with her rifle and then counter by doing some kicking move and then fire at him, but Aron use Iron Head on her but Marowak block it with his bone and then use Bonemerang and it was super effective. The girl fire bullets at Ash as he swirl his axe as a shield and then swing his axe's head, releasing the chain head and wrap around the girl, pull her to spin her around and then Musse fire bullets into the air with then rain down onto the girl and her Marowak as Gligar use Slash on Marowak and the girl.

Rean jump back to avoid the Egg Guardian slam attack as the Tri-Attacker R2 launch their bullets onto him while the Tri-Attacker HG launch the wavelength attack to stop his movement. But Greninja use Shadow Sneak to strike the two Archaisma while Levi launch rapid jabs onto the other Archaisms and destroy when, giving Rean the change to swing his tachi at the Egg Guardian. The Egg Guardian block with it's arm and then spin it's arm around to attack Rean until he use True Crimson Slash to halt it and then Levi launch a slash downward on the Egg Guardian behind and Alteraia destroyed it with Dragon Pulse.

The Egg Hammer swing his hammer onto Altina who flip and dodged as Claiomh Solais readied it's arm blade and charge toward the two robots. It let out a few swipes attack, but the Egg Hammers block with their hammer until Archen use Rock Slide to rain down rocks on them as Tepig used Ember and Tita and Randy smash the two robots together as Claiomh Solais slashed them in half, and destroyed them.

Vulpix use Psychic on Juna, Ash, Quaxwell, and Ducklett and slammed them to the ground while the sword student imbued his sword with power and unleash slashes onto them as Raticate use Hyper Beam onto them and knocked them away before they recovered the sniper fire bullets onto them until Levi use Spiral Pillar to gather them together and attack them twice and Rean slash through them with phantom slashes on them and the students and their Pokemon fell onto their knees.

"Not bad, Class I students. I see you keep up with your training with your Pokemon." Levi said to them.

"Thanks for your praise..." The light brown hair male students panted. "You guys are not half bad either... clearly Class VII aren't people should be messed with."

"Yeah... and Insturctor Schwarzer and his assistant is even more impressive than the rumors and His Highness let on." The other male added

"But we're just starting out... The other students, Archaisms and Dr. Robotic robots have just been deployed." The female student panted

"I see. In that case, go rest. We'll make it to the keep. So please do not underestimate us. That is your first mistake." Levi said

"U-Understood..." The Young man said before he, his Classmates, and their Pokemon were knocked on unconscious.

"Despite the sudden chances, you're definitely worthy of being Thors students." Rean said "It won't be easy to get the card to the Keep."

"Guess we'll just have to search the place top to bottom." Ash said.

"Instructor Rean! Everyone!" Jessica yelled as she and Wayne rush to them, though Wayne lack the stamina.

"You guys! Did you contact the Halberd?" Juna asked

"Yes, we got through just now! We have a message from Instructor Towa." Jessica nodded

"The other branch campus students will be here soon." Wayne added

"Wait, all of them?!" Tita asked.

"Heh, looks like word got around just fine." Randy chuckled. "All right, you guys give them all the backup you can!"

"Understood!" Wayne saluted.

"Leave that to us. You should go now!" Jessica nodded.

"You got it! Let the search of the branch campus commence!" Venti said as Class VII plus Tita and Randy and their Pokemon rushed inside the building.

As they go into a building, they spotted a few Archaisms until they taken them out as they headed inside a room and they see three students with Zweilous, Inkay, Simipour and one Egg Pawn with a rocket launcher

The Sniper Student begin to hide behind the desk and begin shooting at the group until Levi form light shield as Greninja use Shadow Step and knock the female student back and halted the fire and then Tita pull out her cannon and fire at the Pokemon and the students.

Magnemite use Thunderbolt onto Inky who counter with Psybeam as the sword students rush to Randy and Ash and they begin to swing at each other while the Egg Pawn fire the rocket launcher but Rean slice it into two and then lash the Egg Pawn as Levi then slice it into two. Kurt use Twilt Blade 2 on the students and their Pokemon while Junna use Frozen Fist on them. Altina use her Bomb Magic to surround them with fire bombs and exploded on them and then Venti use his wind magic to gather them into a tornado and strike them while Ducklett use Bubble Beam to strike them with bubbles and then Honedge use Iron Head on them.

Altaria use Moonblast on Inky and knock it to the wall while Quaxwell use Low Sweep on Simipour and knock it to the wall, where he recovered and use Scald onto Altina. Altina block it with Claiomh Solais as Archen use Rock Slide onto the students, Aron use Iron Head on Zweilous, Glicar use X-Scissors on the female student and Musse throw ice shard at them. Randy use Crimson Gale and Levi finish it off by Primordial Bust and knock the students to the floor.

"It wasn't much of a fight with this small room." Venti sweatdrop until Ducklett, Aron, Honedge, Archen, Magnemite, are Tepig evolving. "Oh!"

Ducklett evolve into Swanna, Magnemite evolve into Magneton, Honedge evolve into Doublade, Aron evolve into Lairon, Archen evolve into Archeops, and Tepig evolve into Pignite.

"Honedge, you evolve!" Kurt smiled.

"Doublade." Kurt's Doublade said

"Even Ducklett, Aron, Magnetmite, Archen, and Tepig!" Venti cheered as he take out his ARCUS unit and scan it.

"Swanna, the White Bird Pokémon and the evolved form of Ducklett. A Water and Flying Type. Swanna uses its long neck to attack repeatedly and rapidly with exceptional strength. It's said that many artists have taken inspiration from the sight of Swanna performing a beautiful dance in the light of dawn." Venti's Pokedex informed.

"Doublade, the Sword Pokémon and the evolved form of Honedge. A Steel and Ghost type. When Honedge evolves, it divides into two swords, which cooperate via telepathy to coordinate attacks and slash their enemies to ribbons. Doublade's attacks are so rapid and intricate, it is said to be impossible for even a master swordsman to stop them." Kurt's Pokedex said

"Magneton, the Magnet Pokémon. The evolved form of Magnemite. An Electricity and Steel Type. This Pokémon is three Magnemites that have linked together. Magneton sends out powerful radio waves to study its surroundings. Its anti-gravitational powers allow it to float, and it can emit powerful magnetic and electric fields." Tita's ARcus Pokedex informed

"Archeops, the First Bird Pokemon. The Evolve form of Archen. A Rock and Flying Type. Said to be an ancestor of bird Pokémon, the muscles it uses to flap its wings are still weak, so it needs a long runway in order to take off. It needs a running start to take off. If Archeops wants to fly, it first needs to run nearly 25 mph, building speed over a course of about 2.5 miles." Altina's Pokedex told her.

"Pignite, the Fire Pig Pokémon and the evolved form of Tepig. A Fire and Fighting Type. Pignite's food converts into fuel for the flame that burns in its stomach, and when fuel burns in its stomach, its speed increases. Pignite moves faster when its internal flame becomes more intense. This also occurs when it gets angry." Randy Pokedex told him

"Lairon, the Iron Armor Pokemon. Lairon is the evolved form of Aron. A Steel Type and Rock type By drinking nutrient-rich spring water, it strengthens its steel body. During territorial disputes, Lairon fight by slamming into each other. Close inspection of their steel armor reveals scratches and dents." Ash's Pokedex told him.

"Wow, you guys look so cool!" Juna cheered.

"Yeah! It's incredible!" Tita cheered.

"Haha. Look at you Pignite. I see you got some nice muscles."

"Pignite!" Randy's Pignite cheered.

"Archie... No... Archeops. You look impressive."

"Craw." Altina's Archen said with a confident attitude, causing her to look at him deadpan. "But your personally needs work."

"Heehee. Aww, my Swanna, you look so beauitful~ The two of us are going to make one great music together." Venti cuddled his Swanna.

"Swanna." Venti's Swanna cried in happiness and returning the cuddle.

"Congratulations you guys. It show how much you and your Pokemon grow together." Rean smiled.

"Haha. Maybe you should also take your other Pokemon too. They also need some leveling up." Levi smiled.

"True, in that case, Double, return." Kurt said as Ash and the others pull their evolve Pokemon back into their Pokeballs and then they call out their next Pokemon.

Ash's Crocalor, Kurt's Prinplup, Venti's Floragato, Altina's Wartortle, and Tita's Voltorb came out.

"That aside, look like we've got a mix of students from different classes." Randy said

"They ain't half bad, I guess." Ash shrug.

"Maybe. But we can run circles around them." Juna said as they took off.

They headed upstairs where Rean and Levi sense the presence of students in General Art Room and they see three students with Ledian, Quagsire and Misdreavus with aTri-Attacker HG.

Then they pull out their weapons and then begin to charge in and attack them.

Ledian use Swift onto the team and strike them as the Female student follow up by shooting at them while the two boys and their Pokemon charge in. Misdreavus use Shadow Ball while Quagsire use Aqua Tail to push them back.

The Tri-Attacker shoot it's bullets toward them but Altina forma barrier with Claiomh Solais as Musse and Venti cast Crystal Edge and Nemesis Arrow toward the students and their Pokemon to push them back. Reah use True Crimson Slash as Levi use Blade of Arcanum. The sword wielding students rush to clash with Rean and Levi as they wing at each other until they were push back by their skills and strength as Kurt and Juna use Twilit Blade 2 and Gemini Blast 2 onto them while Quagsire sue Mud Shot toward Levi and struck his face.

"Blah!" Levi grunted as he begins to wipe the mud off his face as Ledian use Air Slash on him, but Rean deflected the attack as Altaria use Dragon Breath onto the students where they split up but were attack by Randy, Tita and Ash by slashing them.

The Tri-Attacker HG headbutt toward Randy and fire at him.

Volturb use Thunderbolt on it to shock it before exploding while Gliger use S-Scissors to attack the female student and Musse cast Crystal Edge again with Ventu casting Nemesis Arrow until until Rean Randy use Crimson Gale to knock them out.

The Main Campus students and their Pokemon were knocked out while the Archaism exploded.

"Hm?" Rean spotted something they dropped which reveal to be the Cargo platform Keycard. "A Keycard?"

"That looks like the one for the Cargo Platform." Levi remark.

"It must be. If they were carrying it, that means..." Rean paused

"It's the building on the side of the field. Let's go and check it out." Juna suggested.

"But there might be more students somewhere in the building. They might have something too, so let's check it out before we head to the field." Venti pointed out.

"That's true. Then let's go." Juna agreed as they leave the room and go into the rooftop and then walk to the Clubhouse.

As they begin to walk around, they were soon ambushed by two Main Campus students with their Pokemon. They begin to confront them as Kurt and Ash face the students with Crocalor and Prinplup as the sword student with his Shelgon swing with Ash and Crocalor while the rifle student shoot with her Fraxure for support with Dragon Pulse.

Prinplup counter it with Bubble Beam as both attack exploded one each other as Kurt dash in and slash the sniper girl who took damage. Fraxure use Dragon Claw on Kurt but was attacked by Prinplup's Metal Slaw as they both swing at each other. Ash and the student continue to swing at each other until Ash punches the student's gut, push him away as Shelgon use Zen Headbutt, but Crocalor use Hyper Voice to push it back. Ash then imbued his axe with power and then dashed and unleashed a series of slashes onto him and his Pokemon and slashed them, knocking then onto the ground as Kurt block the girl's kick and counterattack while Prinplup used a Metal Claw attack to push it back.

The girl recovered, only for Ash to use Deadman Darts on her and her Fraxure and Kurt finish it up with Rain Slash 2, knocking both of them down.

With that clear, they headed downstairs to the Pool and Training ground where they were go to into the Pool, but Rean and Levi sense presence as they see another Sword Sutdents and a female Sniper user with their Comfey and Azumarill with one Tri-Attacker HG and the other is a Tri-Attacker 2R.

Rean and Levi brought out their weapons and unleash a large slash projection to push them back while Juna, Venti and Musse fire at them. The Tri-Attacker R2 fire bullets at them but Volturb use Gyro Ball onto them as Azumarill use Water Pulse onto him and Comfey use Play Rough on Levi.

Levi took the damage before Altaria use Sky Attacked to knock Comfey back. Greninja use Hydro Pump on Comfey as the sword student imbued his sword with power and dash toward the team, but Tita with her Orbal Gear block the attack and then punch him. The HG unleash a wave attack until Pigite use Flame Charge to knock it to the wall before Randy destroy it. Venti and Musse cast their Crystal Edge and Nemesis Arrow onto the students and their Pokemon as Floragato use Seed Bomb on Azumarill and Gliger use Slash on Comfey and knock them to the wall and knock them unconscious.

They begin to leave the Clubhouse and head outside to the Platform. There they see the Derfflinger.

"Isn't that the Derfflinger?" Venti asked.

"It is!" Tita nodded

"So they brought it back safe and sound, huh?" Juna asked with a smile.

"Mister Michael probably went and got it himself." Randy said.

"Likely so but, why here? Why not?" Kurt wondered. "You'd assume they'd have brought the Arc Royale instead."

"Considering the main campus students are here, it would make sense." Levi agreed while Musse look around.

"Look over there." Musse pointed to the loading bay dock. "The loading bay dock is open."

"It should directly connected to the hanger." Altina added. "Though we don't yet know what might be waiting for us inside."

"And we never will, 'less we get a move on. Let's go." Ash said as they took off to the loading bay dock.

"So...you've arrived." A voice spoke as Rean and Levi gasped as they see woman in a green dress said on top of a Zauber Soldot.

"No way...Instructor Mary?!" Levi exclaimed.

"It's a pleasure to see you again, Rean and you as well, Levi." Mary replied. "Though perhaps a little less so, considering the circumstances."

"Yeah, no kidding." Rean said.

"Wait, you call her an Instructor, right?" Juna asked.

"Yeah. She was our instructor for music, arts and cookery back when me and Rean were students. She's also an Instructor and adviser for the Music Club." Levi answered. "The club that Elliot attended at the Main Campus."

"Indeed. I am Mary Althiem: military band instructor at Thor's main campus." She nodded "As Levi mentioned, I also teaching fine arts, cookery and music. Along with instructor and adviser for the music club back in their school days."

"Altheim… Any relation to Count Altheim, in Sutherland?" Kurt asked

"Now that you mention it. I think I heard of her from Elliot." Venti replied.

"So you were transferred here all the way from Trista?" Rean asked.

"Yes. There were a few new additions to the curriculum I couldn't bear to overlook." Mary replied. "Even so, I couldn't be happier seeing the fine, young men you've both become, Rean, Levi. It seems having students of your own for six months has taught you both quite a lot."

Levi chuckled. "No kidding. But it's a blast."

"Yeah. That's an honor, coming from you too… I'd say we still have a lot to learn, ourselves." Rean added

"But you're going to stand in our way, aren't you?"

(BGM pauses)

"I am. Though I may not be a worthy opponent, it nevertheless falls to me to receive you in battle." Mary replied "Just as my students have fought with resolve, so too, as their instructor, shall I!"

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Consparcy in Motion)

Mary went inside the Zauber Soldot and it came online with the Rifle gun.

"Wait… that's a new Zauber soldat."Venti replied. "It looks like the one me and Musse used."

"Correct. But that's not all." Mary replied in the Zauber Soldat.

Suddenly it glows with a black aura and the other Zauber Soldot was glowing with the same black aura as it suddenly moved.

"Huh? But I thought there was no one in there!" Juna exclaimed

"It must be automatic." Levi remark.

"There… Seems the Zauber Soldats are linking up properly." Mary said. "I'll need all the help I can get to stand up against a Divine Knight."

"Instructor Mary…" Levi gave a sad and painful look.

"There's no getting around it." Rean said. "We'll take her on with all we've got!"

"Right!"

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - With Our Own Hands!)

Levi then use his magic to summon Valimar and his Panzer Soldot as they both got into the cockpit and activate it.

"We're countin' on you guys!" Randy shout out.

"Cut a path through!" Altina added

"You got it!" Levi respond.

"Get ready, Instructor Mary!" Rean said

"I already am. Come forth!" Mary replied

Valimar and Levi's soldot ready to attack but Mary quickly shoot bullets at them along with the other Zauber Soldot as it shoot rapid fire at them. Valimar and Levi soldot split up and then both attack Mary and the other Zauber Soldot as they slash. But Mary dodged at high speed and counterfire but Valimar block and counter with a powerful slash. Then Valimar let out a few swings onto Mary while Levi launch jabs onto the other Zauber Sodlot.

The Zauber Soldot move swiftly to his left and Fire at Levi, but he jump to the air and then impale the ground with Glave Blade strike and then launch combo slashes to destroy it completely and break it to pieces.

Mary move swiftly against Valimar and then charge a powerful beam to push Valimar back. Levi then swirl his Glaive and then launch rapid jabs onto Mary's Zauber Soldot and took the hit. Then Valimar form a hexil. Levi then use Pentrate Hurl onto the Zauber Soldot as Valimar then launch a few swings of the Sword of the End. Mary recovered and then jump in the air and fire large bullets toward them as they use their weapons as a shield before landed on the ground and charge a laser to push Valimar and Levi back.

Valimar and Levi's soldot recovered as Levi charge toward Mary and slashed her, but she dodged until Valimar slash her. Valimar then unleash a powerful combo slash and dealt a finishing blow, causing Mary's Zauber Soldot to malfuction and fell onto its knees.

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Sensitive Talk)

"They did it!" Randolph said.

"Instructor Mary!" Rean called out as he and Levi got out from their respectful Divine Knight and Soldot.

Mary then came on out, but saw a slight but of black miasma on her as she looked hurt. "Ngh..."

The team rushed over to check on her.

"Instructor Mary, all you all right?!" Levi asked with great concern

"I'm fine...I managed to withstand its effects, somehow." Mary replied.

"So it's true… Piloting the Zauber Soldats eats away at the mind of their users…" Musse muttered.

"Then the states of the pilots we've fought against previously… Could that have been due to the curse built into the Soldats themselves?" Altina asked.

"Th-That's horrible!" Tita exclaimed

"I dunno... Sounds pretty far-fetched to me." Ash replied

"But it isn't… The instructor who accomplished me said just the some thing. " Mary remarks "We've been trying to avoid it since it became part of the main campus' curriculum, bur as you can see… it isn't quite so simple."

"Man... that's insane!" Randy grimaced

"Alberich... Osborne..." Levi clench his fist and teeth with rage. 'I'm going to kill them both.'

"So that's why you and the main campus students took action... It's all starting to come into focus." Rean sighed. "In that case... We'd better steel ourselves. Whatever resolve your students have gathered, we'll have to make sure we meet twofold."

"Rean..." Mary said with a smile as Rean and Levi help her up. "You truly have matured, haven't you?" She then handed him the Training Hall keycard.

"A Keycard?" Levi look at it. "This look like for the training hall."

"That's right. The door to the hanger is currently locked. You'll likely find more luck over at the clubhouse first. Your trial has only just begun. The students will be sure to oppose you…. as well as a certain other instructor. Please hurry, everyone. I'll be praying to Aidios for your success."

"Thank you!" The group nodded and took off... after Levi store Valimar and his Soldot.

(Resuming Break-in)

"I am personally going to kill Osborne and Alberich for forcing the students and Insturctor Mary into those abominations..." Levi grumbled as they leave the Platform.

"I know how you feel Levi, but please control yourself. We'll stop them if it the last thing we'll do." Rean said, holding Levi's hand to comfort him.

"Yeah... You're... Sorry." Levi sighed as they head back to the Pool/Training Ground via the Clubhouse where they look at which door until they found the lock door, use the Keycard and then enter the training room where three Archaisms.

Gespard Gerrod and two Phalanx J9.

"Are you kidding me?!" Juna yelled

"A Large archaism indoors?!" Altina exclaimed.

"Careful!" Rean oull out his Tachi along with everyone else got their weapons out as the Archaisms fire their bullets and lasers.

They all split up as Levi use Penetrate Hurl onto the Archaism as Rean let out combo slashes on the Phalanx J9 on the middle Archaism's right. Ash swing his axe on the other Phanlanx while Musse firing at it. Tita got her Orbal Gear out and then fire bullets on Gespard Gerrod which fire back the laser.

Kurt let out a series of slashes on the Gespard Gerrod but it respond with bringing out electric blades to slash their legs but he jump while Juna use Thunder Fist and then fire bulls on it. Prinplup use Bubble Beam on the head while Quaxwell use Aqua Cutter. Gespard Gerrod being fire multiple bullets from it's armments as the other two archiams respond by firing bullets and then begin to spin around to push them away. Venti use Storm Eye 2 to pull them with Gespard Gerrod as Floragato use Seed Bomb to explode on them.

Altina throw in a few bombs from her magic while Randy imbued his Halberd with power and then he jump to Gespard Gerrod and swing it heavily on the head. Gespard Gerrod fire a laser beam at Randy and the group and each were push back as the Phanlanxs fire laser beams at them as well. Pigite use Flame Wheel on the right Phanlanx while Volturb use Discharge on all three Archaisms. Wartortle use Bubble Beam as Crocalor use Flamethrower on it. Gespard Gerrod respond by pulling out electrical blades to swipe at them, but Altaria use Moonblast to push it away while Greninja use Hydro Pump for an additional boost.

Tita puncht he ground to create a power surge to the Archaisms while pulling out a laser beam and fire at it, destroying the two Archaisms as Kuna let out slashes on Gespard Gerrod while Juna sue Cross Beal 2 on it. Gespard Gerrod spin around with plasma blade and then fire rapid bullets and even firing lasers toward the group. Altina throw a bomb to it's laser hole and explode it on the inside as Venti ready his orbal arrow which turn into a beam. Levi imbued his Glaive with power and then unleash a flurry of slashes form a helicopter form attack in midair, then let out series of Aerial slashes and then a cartwheel slam as Rean let out his series of slashes on it.

Gespard Gerrod respond by punching the group to push Rean and Levi away as Tita rush to Gespard Gerrod and then punch him two times before and then fire bullets. Randy then switch to rifle mode and fire several bullets on it. Juna use Thunder Fist while Kurt use Whirling Steel as Prinplup use Brine and Gligar use Screech to weaken it's defensive. Crocalor use Flamethrower as Ash then dash toward and launch slashes of it's axe which cause some malfunction progress.

"Fria's Sheet Blades!" Musse summons blades of ice and pierce through Gespard Gerrod armor.

"Voltorb, discharge!" Tita command.

"Voltoooorb!" Tita's Voltorb then use Discharge on Gespard Gerrod as it begin to malfunction and explodes.

After the archaisms defeat, suddenly, Voltorb, Quaxwell, Floragato, Crocalor, Prinplup, and Wartortle begin to evolve.

"Ah! They evolving!" Altina said as Voltorb evolve into Electrode, Floragato evolve to Meowscarada, Quaxwell evolve into Quaquaval, Prinplup evolve into Empoleon, Crocalor evolve to Skeledirge, and Wartortle evolve to Blastoise. "Ah..."

"Oh my gosh! Voltorb evolve into Electrode!" Tita cheered as Juna and the others check out their Pokemon.

"Meowscarada, Magician Pokémon. The evolved form of Floragato. A Grass and Dark Type. This Pokémon uses the reflective fur lining in its cape to camouflage the stem of its flower, creating the illusion that the flower is floating. With skillful misdirection, it rigs foes with pollen-packed flower bombs. Meowscarada sets off the bombs before its foes realize what's going on." Venti's ARCUS Alpha said.

"Skeledirge, the Singer Pokemon, and the evolved form of Crocalor. A Fire and Ghost type. The fiery bird changes shape when Skeledirge sings. Rumor has it that the bird was born when the fireball on Skeledirge's head gained a soul. Skeledirge's gentle singing soothes the souls of all that hear it. It burns its enemies to a crisp with flames of over 5,400 degrees Fahrenheit." Ash's ARCUS Apha informed

"Quaquaval, the Dancer Pokemon, and the evolved form of Quaxwell. A Water and Fighting Type. A single kick from a Quaquaval can send a truck rolling. This Pokémon uses its powerful legs to perform striking dances from far-off lands. Dancing in ways that evoke far-away places, this Pokémon mesmerizes all that see it. Flourishes of its decorative water feathers slice into its foes." Juna's ARCUS Alpha said

"Electrode, the Ball Pokemon, and the evolved form of Voltorb. An Eletric type. Electrode reacts to stimulation with explosive power. Feared far and wide, it's known as "The Bomb Ball." Tita's ARCUS Alpha informed

"Blastoise, the Shellfish Pokemon, and the evolved form of Wartortle. A Water Type. Blastoise's heavy body weight can leave opponents unable to battle. It retreats into its shell when necessary." Altina's ARCUS Alpha reported

"Empoleon. The Emperor Pokemon and the evolved form of Prinplup. A Water and Steel Type. Empoleon can swim as fast as a jet boat. The edges of its wings are sharp and can slice through an iceberg with ease." Kurt's ARCUS Alpha reported

"Whooooa! Quaquaval! You're super cool!" Juna said with an excited tone as Quaquaval responded with a dance move.

"Qua." Juna's Quaquaval responds with confidence.

"Oh Meowscarada, you look super cool!" Venti cheered with his eyes sparking.

"Meow~" Venti's Meowscarada giggled as it made the flower disappeared and reappear on top of Venti's head.

"Whoa! How did you do that?"

"Meow."

"Hehehe~ I get the feeling you and I are gonna have a lot of prank to pull off." Venti said with a mischievous grinned

"Meowscarada." Venti's Meowscarada responded with the same agreement smirked, causing Rean and Levi to sweatdrop.

"Hah! Look at you Skeledirge. You look badass, are n'tcha?" Ash asked with a grin.

"Skeledirge." Ash's Skeledirge responds with a happy response.

"Blastoise. You have grown. I'm so proud of you." Altina smiled.

"Blastoise." Altina's Blastoise responds with a hug.

"Hehe." Altina hug back.

"Empoleon." Kurt said in awe but happy. "Or perhaps I should call you, Your Excellency?"

"Empoleon." Kurt's Empoleon respond with a laugh.

"Haha. Teasing aside. Thanks for letting me see how strong you've become."

"Electrode, you look amazing! No doubt you'll be a great help." Tita smiled

"Electrode!" Tita's Electrode responds with a laugh.

"But, try not to blow us up, okay?"

"Electrode." He responds with a mischievous look.

Tita sweatdrop. "I better switch you with Klink now." She said, pulling Electrode with Klink.

"Hehe. I'm so proud of you all." Musse giggled.

"Gligar." Musse's Gligar sighed

"Oh no need to worry, Gligar, you'll evolve soon. Why don't you take a break, you've earn it." Musse said as she return her Pokemon to his Pokeball and then switch with Dewott.

"Cograts everyone. It show you how much your Pokemon has evolve." Rean smiled. "It's proof of your hard work and your bonds. But don't let it stop you there."

"Right!" New Class VII and Tita nodded

"Right. While this is all good news. But how'd they even bring that thing in?" Ash wondering about the Archaism.

"It definitely wouldn't fit though the window or the door. Come to think of it. I don't think some of our Pokemon might be able to go through the door when we leave." Juna remark.

"You're talking about my blastoise, aren't you? Altina asked. "Possible true, But worry not. He'll return to his Pokeball and then come out shortly."

Tita hummed. "I think they might have disassembled it earlier and reassembled it inside. The professor could probably do it, but..."

"Well, it looks like he's been spending all his time at the Keep so I doubt it was him." Randy agreed.

"An engineer that can handle an archaism... The only one I could think of is Dr. Eggman, but he wasn't in the call."

'Hey Rean… If my hunch is correct… if Instructor Mary is here… then… the other Instructor… do you think it's HIM?" Levi asked as he whisper to him.

"It's most likely." Rean whispered back and nodded before noticing a Hanger Keycard on the floor and pick it up. "Everyone. Look what the Archaism dropped." He show it to them after he and Levi rejoin them.

"That's the keycard for the Hanger. That place we haven't search yet." Levi told them. "So come on. Let's go."

"Right!" Everyone nodded as they walk out of the room while Altina return Blastoise to his Pokeball before they reach outside and then brought him out again as they head to the field and made way to the Hanger.

Rean use the keycard to open it.

"All right, it's open." Levi said.

"Yeah, sounds-"

(BGM ended)

"Ah, you're finally here." A voice said in the inside, interrupting Rean as large footsteps was heard coming closer.

"That sound..." Rean paused.

"Everyone, get back!" Levi yelled as they stepped back to the field and the hanger door opened.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Conspiracy in Motion)

Coming out a Zauber Soldot version of Hector as accompany it was another Automatic Zauber Soldot.

"Another new model?" Musse asked

"Damn. Now we gotta deal with a souped-up Hector, too!" Ash exclaimed.

"I knew it." Levi said

"Instructor Makarov! Is that you?" Rean asked

"Heh... Bingo." Instructor Marakov replied from inside. "Haven't seen you two since...graduation, I guess? Huh. Seems you've been doing pretty well for yourselves. As for the rest of you, I don't believe I've had the pleasure. I'm the go-to instructor for military orbal engineering over at the main campus. You can call me Makarov."

"Yeah, I've heard about you." Randolph said.

"You're the professor's second disciple! Mint's uncle!" Tita added.

"I'm just a regular old man, but don't forget. Schmidt was my teacher, too." Makarov replied. "I hear you've been keeping up with his demands pretty well. Sounds like you've got promise, kid."

"Haha… I don't know if I'd put it like that."

"But if you're here now, piloting that…" Altina trailed off.

"You're also going to stand in our way, huh?" Levi asked.

"Yeah, you might consider me the last wall in your path." Makatov replied as he pulled out his Halbard as a dark aura glowed around the Zauber and the other one. "I got the last keycard. You want it, you'll need to get past me."

"Of course, he'd even the odds with an extra Soldat on the field…" Kurt muttered

Levi hummed as he wrapped his arm behind his neck. "Guess it can't be helped. So Rean, which one do you want to take him on with?"

"I think Altina should join along. This will be her second battle against a soldot after all." Rean answered "You ready, Altina?"

"Yes!" Altina nodded.

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - With Our Own Hands!)

Levi then use his magic to summon Valimar and Goliath Noa into the battlefield as Rean and Altina enter their respectful units and operate them. Both humanoid weapons pull out their weapons... err... The Goliath Noa readied its fist.

"I may be lazy, but that doesn't mean you get to be. You better give it all you've got." Makarov said.

"With pleasure!" Rean respond.

"Ready yourself!" Altina added

Valimar launch the first attack as launch a wide slash onto the Zauber Soldot and the other as Makarov block ti with it's halberd while the other Soldot ran to slash Altina, but she block it with her arm and then fire a bullet onto it before punching it to push it back. Altina raised a fist and punch the soldot. Valimar rush toward Makarov as they swing at each other until Makatov's Halberd glow with power and swing it at him, pushing him away a bit and then jumps and slam toward the Goliath. Altina managed to block it with her arms, but the other Zauber Soldot slashed her open area and Makarov hop off and then charge and strike.

Valimar came rushing in to launch slashes onto the Soldot and Altina punch the ground to create a shockwave toward the two Zauber units. Makarov unleash an eerie green energy slash onto the two where they both block the attack and Valimar performed a helix attack onto Makarov while the other Zauber dash toward Valimar to slash him, but Altina fire bullets to stop it. Altina punches the Zauber unit and then Fire a laser cannon onto the Soldot and then destroys it.

Makarov then charge an errie green ergy and slash it toward Valimar as Rean block and Psrry and then unleash a few slashes and push it back. Altina charge the cannon and fire a laser at it before it's fist punch the ground to create a power surge to strike the Zauber Soldot, causing it to malfuction.

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Homewards)

"Hey, not bad!" Randy praised.

"And Altina did not bad." Levi added

Instructor Makarov chuckled "Haha, I think that's enough." He said as he came out of the Zauber unit and looked tired.

"Instructor Makarov... Are you okay?" Rean asked

"Don't worry about me. I'm just a little tired out. Heh… Some damn fine students you got there as well, Schwarzer, Sullivan. It's clear you two taught 'em well. As someone who watch you both graduate, it makes me proud to see how far you've come."

"Instructor." Rean smiled

"You're far too kind." Levi said. "We don't deserve the full credit."

"He's right, it's not just our doing. It's because my students, Levi and I have a relationship where we all teach each other. And I couldn't have even gotten to this point without the support you and the other instructors gave us during our times at Thors."

"Tch, just take the damn compliment. Eh, whatever. I guess thinking about it like that is proof you've matured." Makatov said as he got up. "Follow me. The Keycard is inside."

"Okay." Venti nodded as they go inside the Hanger.

(BGM paused)

(Hyrule Warriors Age of Calamity ost - Disquiet)

As they arrived inside, they spotted large numbers of Zauber Soldots.

"What... Why are there so many Zauber Soldots here?!" Levi growled.

"It seems they really were officially added to the main campus' curriculum, then…" Musse sighed

"You know. Do you all remember that the Goliath that was supposed to send us in the branch campus before the principal overwritten it." Altina recalled.

"Yeah, you mean the same Goliath that lost control and- ah!" Venti gasped. "Wait... you're not saying..."

"Yes. The Goliath that we found in Sutherland was the same one the Imperial Army used that said it went out of control. They had it send to the Imperial Army laboratory to to examine the cause of it. There weren't any signs but I don't think they discovered the bug they implanted with it."

"Or... Perhaps it's safe to say that the Goliath that was supposed to be sent to us was a test subject and use us as an experiment. Because that Goliath had the same mechanism as those Zauber Soldots."

"If that's the cause, then it was fortunate that the principal overwritten the order with Levi's instead." Kurt said. "But that also means our enemies have been doing experiments with the Zauber Soldots for some time now..."

Juna gasped. "That...!"

"This is no doubt Albeirch's work." Levi clenched his fist and teeth. "Osborne… Alberich… They really are the most detestable beings in this world! They're just as bad as Xehanort and Thales. Not only do they plan to use us as an experiment, they don't even value human lives! And now they're even forcing the students to suffer the same thing as the Imperial Army! I think Cedric also must have forced them to do it as well. The thought of it wants me to punch him again. Those Zauber Soldots must destroy at all cost."

"Thankfully, not too much time has passed." Mary said as she and Instructor Makarov approached the team. "So we haven't seen any negative effects from the students so far. But as long as they continue piloting the Zauber Soldots, that rock will never disappear."

"With both the government and crown prince saying it's to prepare for the coming war, we can only do so much to avoid it." Instructor Makarov added. "In the midst of all that, there's been a proposal from the students. They suggested leaking information about the 'guests' and settling a location for a showdown to determine the best of Thors."

"So that is what they're up too…" Venti muttered

"As I said, they suffer so much as the Imperial Army did. Cedric deserves more than a spanking. Of course, I must remember if the curse was indeed behind his behavior, the least I can do is purge the curse from him and punch Osborne and Alberich." Levi sighed.

"Still, this isn't about the brach or main campus students. This is about everyone under the Horned Lion." Rean reminded. "We need to show everyone what Thors students are made of!"

"Rean… Everyone…" Mary smiled.

(BGM ended)

"Well… Guess all I can do now is see it through." Instructor Makarov smiled.

(Resuming Break In)

"Take this, Schwarzer, Sullivan." Makarov then handed over the card key to them. "You should be able to enter the Kep where the professor and the others are with this. I'll leave the rest in your hands. Stay strong on the path ahead!"

"Got it!" Class VII nodded.

"Wanna get a move on?" Randy palm fist.

"Yes! To Einhel Keep!" Tita nodded in agreement as they headed back outside the field and then rushed to Einhel Keep where they arrived at the door.

Rean use the Keycard to grant them accessed.

"All right, let's-" Levi was interrupted when Rean's ARCUS Alpha rang.

"Rean, are you guys okay?!" Towa asked in the call.

"Towa… We're all right. We're just about finishing up on our end. What about yours?" Rean responded.

"We managed to make it to Leeves! Some of the branch campus students just met up with us! We can handle the main campus students, their archaisms and Eggman Robots. You guys focus on taking back the Keep!"

"That's the idea." Levi replied before the call ended. "Let's hurry before those detestable Imperial Defense Force are back."

"Yeah. Let's go in!" Rean said as they go in.

---

And now the rescue for Elise and Tio is now on their way! Oh. I've been playing Pokemon Violet and I love it! Honestly, Its about time I play something new until the new Remake Thousand Year Door arrived. But I got some ideas now~ Sorry for the late update.