We went ahead of Instructor Rean back to the room provided for the branch campus and start helping with the security details.

As usual, Class VII as Special Ops was the rapid response team, meaning we were pretty much just put on standby in the room, helping Class IX monitor the security camera feed, while Class VIII went on patrols. Eventually, Instructor Rean rejoined us, and not long after that, the dinner party started.

Apparently, the Governor General was mindful enough that we're students and arranged the later half of the dinner party as our break time, and provided us the same fancy foods and drinks that they serve the guests—minus the alcohol, of course.

"…Juna's still gloomy," Altina whispered to Kurt and me as she glanced at Juna who is barely touching her food.

Kurt nods, "I thought she had brightened up a bit after talking to Prince Olivert, but..."

"It is not as if she could forget our talks with Chairman Irina and Governor Regnitz. The Dragunov-class railway guns being here unnerved her a bit. Understandable, considering if Calvard responds to the provocation, Crossbell will be a warzone," I replied.

Kurt turns to me, "…I think she's also conflicted about the tax cut. She thought a tax cut was a good thing for Crossbell, remember? But then she heard you and me talking about how it would negatively impact smaller regions. Not to mention how Governor General Rufus fits into all of this."

"Is that so?" Altina asked

"Man, you all look like crap. What's your guys' problem?"

Kurt sighs, "Hello to you too, Ash."

Juna turns to him, "What's YOUR problem? You seem to just be wandering around."

Ash shrugs, "Lookin' for a way outta this joint. No booze here, so I was thinking of going out and hitting the nightlife, maybe found some babes to accompany me."

He turns to Kurt, "Wanna join me, pretty boy? Between your dense natural chick-magnet act and my sexy ladykiller act, we'd get the hottest babes in town."

Juna snorts, "Sexy ladykiller who? You? Please. And don't get me started on Kurt being a natural chick magnet, sorry to say, most Crossbell girls have better standards."

…Guess you'd better renounce your Crossbell citizenship then.

Altina chimed in, "But Juna, you are one of those Crossbell girls you mentioned. According to my data, your statement seems contradictory."

"H-Hey! I'm not sure I like what you're implying here, Allie!"

Thank you for saying that on my behalf, Altina.

Now then, about Ash sneaking away…

"Nice work, Schleiden. First lesson as a student council president under me, if there are any rowdy students, you defeat them in a duel."

You know, maybe beating him up can be therapeutic after that shit Campanella pulled.

I turn to Ash and smile, "It occurs to me that you are very bold to suggest sneaking out in my presence as the student council president."

"Meh. Whatcha gonna do? Make a commotion inthis super formal-ass party?"

"I do have a directive from Principal Le Guin to 'beat down' rowdy students. Considering we are supposed to be on duty…let's see, corporeal punishment for desertion would fit, wouldn't it?"

Ash stares at me for a bit before turning to Kurt, "…Yo, Vander. This girl's serious?"

"…From my experience, that smile she has right now is her at her most frightening. That is all," Kurt replied.

I continue, "Ah well…today has been rather frustrating in more ways than one. Doing some 'disciplinary actions' might prove therapeutic."

Ash sighs, "…Yeah I'll pass. It'd make a commotion, Irving and Randolph'll be on my ass and I won't get booze or these nice grubs here…just…screw you, prissy girl! Just wait until the next combat training class!"

"Oh? And here I was getting my hopes up, shame," I replied.

"He probably got intimidated by that smile of yours. I…wouldn't blame him," Kurt chimed in.

Ash rolls his eyes, "Nah, I ain't a whipped pansy like you. Just didn't feel like it."

Juna snickers, "You sure? Because it sure doesn't look that way to me."

"Screw you too, wild filly."

Altina turns to Ash, "Ash, you mentioned 'screwing' Jessica, earlier as well. According to my studies, 'screw' seems to be slang for fornication. Does this mean you are going to be involved in the love triangle between the three of them?"

"Wha—?! No, that ain't what that means in this context!" Ash spluttered.

"A-Allie, that isn't really what it means, okay?" Juna said.

"Huh? I do not understand. Is this of similar nature to what you were saying this morning about me using the phrase 'being used' by the Governor General?" Altina asked again.

Ash turns to us, "The hell you've been teaching this kid?"

I sigh.

"Altina…maybe ask Major Claire to explain that the next time you meet, okay?" I said throwing Major Claire under the bus.

"Y-yes. Instructor Claire seems to be the right person for you to ask this to," Juna nodded, figuratively helping me throw Major Claire under said bus.

"I see. Then I will ask Major Rieveldt the next time we meet," Altina agreed.

Sorry Major Claire…and good luck.

"Man, your class is wild," Ash snickered, talking to Kurt.

Kurt sighs, "You don't know the half of it. At least they are not ganging up on me."

"Pfft, they did what? Pretty sure you're living the dreams of some guys there. You know, like Sidney. By the way, you decided yet on hot tea or cold tea? Cause if you want both, lemme tell you the strats—"

"Such delightful conversation you all are having!"

I was about to reprimand Ash for that off-color comment, but then a wild troublemaker #2 appears instead.

"Whatcha want, Egret? You want to sneak out, better give it up because prissy girl here is being a pain in the ass," Ash said, turning to Musse.

Musse smiles, "Oh no. While that sounds thrilling, I have something else I need to do right now. But I do need to borrow Jessica."

Oh. Gotcha. Conversation with Princess Alfin.

Juna turns to me questioningly.

"I promised to introduce her to Princess Alfin," I replied. Half-truths tend to be the best lies, after all.

Juna nods, "Oh. I see. She seems really nice when I met her earlier."

Musse nods back, clapping her hands, "Oh yes. I've been a great admirer of her."

Juna smirks at me, "Seems less stuck up than you too. If anything, you feel more princess-like."

"I shall take that as a compliment," I replied.

"It's not. But whatever helps you sleep at night, princess."

Musse giggles and turns to me, "Teehee, as amusing watching you bicker with Juna is, I'm afraid we really should get going."

I nod, "Right."

I then turn to Altina, "Make sure Ash does not sneak out, all right?"

Altina nods, "Of course. Claiomh Solais is ready for deployment."

"I stand ready to assist as well," Kurt added.

"Oh come on! What's a guy gotta do to get some booze and babes in the branch campus?"

"You do not, because it violates student regulations as written in your handbook."

"Get him, Allie!"

I hear them bicker some more as Musse and I left. Well…at least Juna perks up a bit. One good thing out of that, at least.

"So you're from the RMP? Think you can tell me a bit about—"

"That's quite enough!"

I glance a bit to see the commotion happening as I was leaving with Musse.

Vivi trying to charm Instructor Michael to give her some insider scoop, it seems…yeah…I don't think that tactic will work on the guy.

And now Instructor Rean is coming over to de-escalate it seems.

Oh well. None of my business.

Musse and I continue until we reach the door to the dining room that hosts all the VIPs.

The two guards on the door look at us.

"May we help you?" One of them asked.

I reply, "We have come on the behest of Princess Alfin, please inform Her Highness that we have arrived."

"Names?" The other one asked us.

"Jessica Schleiden and Musse Egret," I answered.

The guard relays the information through his ARCUS. A moment later, Princess Alfin and Elise come out of the room.

Princess Alfin then dismisses her guard and leads us up the stairs to the floor above.

"Are we not using one of the rooms for privacy?" I asked.

Princess Alfin turns to me, "The room assigned to us will have staff inside, and it would draw attention if I dismiss them for us to talk. We could arrange for an empty room, but…I'd rather not be indebted further to the Governor General."

She then turns to Musse, "Is that all right with you, Mil—er…Musse?"

Musse nods, "That's all right with me, it's not like I'm hiding a grand secret or anything."

Liar.

"So…you enrolled in the branch campus now?" Princess Alfin started.

Musse nods, "Yes. After the civil war, the Cayennes are political pariahs, I could not possibly remain in St. Astraia."

"Is that why you also use a pseudonym?" Elise asked.

"Something like that, yes," Musse replied.

Princess Alfin sighs and turns to me, "You know…you could have told me the last time we speak through the ARCUS."

"She wishes to remain incognito," I simply replied.

"Yes, I asked Jessica to keep it secret, sorry," Musse added.

Princess Alfin nods resignedly, "That's…quite on brand with Musse. But still…why a military academy?"

Because she has a secret master plan and has to ingratiate herself with the protagonists…is the real answer, but I wonder what she'll say.

Musse replies, "There is something I need to do in the military academy. Erebonia values the military quite a lot, as you know. I simply think that doing military service is the fastest way to restore the Cayenne name—of course, to prevent biases, I will hide the fact I'm Mildine Juzelith de Cayenne until the appropriate moment."

That's probably part of it, I guess. With Thors being as prestigious as it is, and the branch campus heroics starting to be used as propaganda. Half-truths are the best lies indeed.

From the corner of my eyes, I notice someone approaching below the stairs, before promptly hiding behind the walls.

That white coat…Oh, come on, Instructor Rean. I know that was a bit awkward walking in on us like that, but hiding will just make it worse later on.

"…I had assumed you'd transferred to a girls' school in Ordis," Elise remarked.

Musse glances briefly in Instructor Rean's direction before giggling, "Teehee, to be fair I did dodge the topic on my letters."

…This drama queen is totally just going to pretend Instructor Rean is not there to reveal it at a dramatic moment, isn't she?

I sigh, "Before we continue, perhaps a certain someone hiding below would prefer to join the conversation?"

"Huh?"

"A certain—?"

Instructor Rean comes up the stairs, sheepishly rubbing the back of his head, "Uh…Sorry, I didn't mean to eavesdrop."

"Rean?!" Elise and Princess Alfin said in surprise.

As expected, Musse has no surprise whatsoever as she teases him, "Trying to listen in on a maiden's secret, are we?"

"Er…" Instructor Rean trailed off…

I turn to Musse, "Considering you noticed Instructor Rean was hiding downstairs and yet choose to ignore it, I don't think you have any room to talk about a maiden's secret."

"Oh, my. You noticed?"

I nod, "Allow me to postulate. I believe you would reveal his presence at an opportune moment to embarrass him?"

Musse smirks, "You'd be correct! I'm sure Elise was about to ask if I'm all right thrown into actual combat in the branch campus, to which, I would reply 'If anything were to happen, your gallant brother will protect me' before revealing that Instructor Rean has been there all along!"

Elise sighs, "You never change, do you?"

"Pigs fly before this girl will change her nefarious ways," I said in sarcasm.

Princess Alfin turns to me, "She sure doesn't but you sure do. You seem less guarded now, with Class VII. I'm almost jealous…"

Musse replies before I could, "Oh, I'm sure it's all due to Instructor Rean here. Not even the Snow Princess's cold heart can resist melting being in close proximity almost every day with the Ashen Chevalier. After all they—"

"C-Could you not, spread weird rumors to my sist—"

Instructor Rean didn't get to finish before Princess Alfin and Elise turn to me,

"Oh, my! Did something happen?"

"Did something happen between you two?!"

….These two are saying the exact same things yet with very different connotations.

I sigh, "Did you two just take Musse at her word? You two have learned nothing, I see."

Musse giggles, making Princess Alfin and Elise turn back to her, who is now already latching to Instructor Rean's left arm tightly.

Musse smirks, "Teehee, those who let their guard down, will lose the prize, or so they say."

"Ahh!" Elise exclaimed

"Really, Mild—Musse?" Princess Alfin asked.

I roll my eyes, "Instructor Rean, I suggest you detach yourself immediately lest other people see you two, jump to conclusions, and result in you losing your job."

Musse looks up and Instructor Rean, giving him her best puppy-dog eyes, "…Just for a bit? No one is here…I'll be really sad if you rejected me that harshly, Instructor."

This sly fox…I heard that having people look at you from above is a seduction technique used to make a girl look small and vulnerable and needs to be protected.

"…"

Instructor Rean, you soft-hearted pushover!

Musse presses Instructor Rean's arm into her ample bosom.

Are you actually trying to get him fired?!

"Wha—!" Elise exclaimed.

Musse continues, "You don't mind, do you…Instructor? ❤ "

"I…uh…"

I hit Musse on the head, "All right, that's enough. As student council president, I deem this highly inappropriate."

Instructor Rean detaches his arm immediately and coughs, "Yes…uh…that's right. You take your jokes too far!"

"Teehee, what if I told you I wasn't jok—"

Another bonk to the head, go to horny jail!

Musse pouted, "Oh well…I think I have to stop now, I fear I won't survive sleeping in our room otherwise."

She then starts skipping down the stairs, "Well then, good night, Princess, Elise, Jessica…"

"…Instructor Rean," Musse said with a wink before she left.

This girl...Once she got a character moment with Kurt and shifts her attention, I think she can actually get past that guy's denseness. Man, Juna, you have a time limit here, get at it!

Elise gives Instructor Rean an unimpressed look.

Instructor Rean simply flinches.

Elise sighs, "You really shouldn't let Musse push you around like that."

Princess Alfin giggles, "Oh come now, Elise. At least now you know Rean is susceptible to those kinds of tactics"

"P-Princess!" Elise replied flustered.

"…Well that last bit aside, I see you two are the same as ever," Instructor Rean said, awkwardly trying to change the topic.

He then turns to Princess Alfin, "Elise been telling me in her letters that you have been helping her with student council president duties, Your Highness. Thank you for that."

Princess Alfin smiles, "Oh, it's no problem at all. Still…with both Jessica and Elise becoming student council presidents, I feel a bit left out. Maybe I should become one."

"Schools that would make you its student council president beyond the fact you are Erebonia's princess are lost to madness," I tease her.

Elise nods, "Oh yes. I shudder to think what events Her Highness would organize as a student council president."

Princess Alfins stuck her tongue out at us, "You two are just boring! Also, are you two bullying your princess?"

"I would put it more as Elise and I being in an alliance of all that is sane and good against the crawling chaos of madness that is Princess Alfin Reise Arnor," I replied.

"The 'crawling chaos of madness'? Me? Oh, you HAVE gotten cheeky aren't you? If that's your descriptor of me, what's Olivert then?"

"Alas, something that is beyond cognition. Thankfully, he is Mueller's jurisdiction, not mine."

Elise laughs, "Heehee, I miss seeing the two of you banter like this. Although…Jessica's retorts are much sharper now."

Princess Alfin shrugs, "What do you expect after having her rooming with Musse?"

She then continues, "And well…as I said, she does seem to mellow out a bit. I REALLY wanted to talk to this new Jessica at length now."

I smile, "We are talking right now, are we not?"

"True…but Elise and I have to return to the dining hall soon. Can't you stay with us tonight?" Princess Alfin asked me.

That's…

I frown, "I…would also like to talk more. However, I don't think that is proper. The branch campus is currently on duty in Crossbell, for me to take a leave to attend to you is…There are already enough rumors of nepotism between us. I don't wish to trouble you."

Princess Alfin shakes her head, "I don't really care about that! People who missed how hard you've worked to be a good guardian for me are in the wrong anyway!"

"Even so, your position is already precarious enough. If you truly want to start helping Prince Olivert carve a third path forward for Erebonia, you can't afford these sorts of avoidable setbacks," I replied.

"But, when is the next time we can even meet up again—"

Elise cuts her off, "Then, how about this. We should visit Jessica in the branch campus the next free day they have."

She then turns to Instructor Rean, "That's okay, right?"

Instructor Rean nods, "Yes. It should be fine. Also, I'll have to check but if you can come the evening of the previous day, I think you two can stay the night with Jessica and Musse."

Princess Alfin turns to him, "Really?"

Instructor Rean smiles, "Yes. I'll get back to you through Elise about whether you can stay the night or not. But visiting during the free day should be fine, Your Highness."

Princess Alfin then nods and turns to me, "There then. No problem with this right? Because if you tell me there is something wrong with me visiting my best friend on her free day, I swear I'll use a royal edict to summon you instead!"

I chuckle, "You do not need to go that far. But yes, that should be all right. I'll be looking forward to—"

I stop.

There's this sudden chill I feel. Something is off.

Then it hit me. My instinct recognizes the sensation and every train of thought that occurs in that snap judgment are telling me to run.

"Jessica?"

I ignore Princess Alfin and turn to Instructor Rean who is looking up.

"Instructor, that was—"

He's gone pale, "It's him—from the civil war!"

Then there is a sudden loud crash above us.

Instructor Rean takes out his ARCUS and dials a number.

"Schwarzer?! Good, I was just about to contact you," Major Michael said through the ARCUS

Major Michael continues, "I'll make this brief. Security cameras feedbacks show multiple Sneak Gunner series archaisms entering the building from the windows. And on the rooftop, two Enforcers. Enforcer No. 0, the Fool, and Enforcer No. I the Almighty Conflagration. No one else can have a chance against those two, I'm leaving them to you."

There's no way he can handle those two on his own. Especially not—

Instructor Rean nods, his expression grim, "Understood."

On another note, does this mean Valimar's preference is just the protagonists? Will Kurt inherit Valimar from Instructor Rean at one point? Wait, he's not…going to suffer a mentor's death, is he?

I feel my heart drops. The mentor's death trope.

"I'll send Orlando as soon as possible once the archaisms are dealt with. Goddess be with you!" Major Michael said before he hangs up.

"T-The Almighty Conflagration? Isn't that…" Princess Alfin trailed off.

Instructor Rean nods, "Yeah. Said to be the strongest in Ouroboros. Last time we met him, we only manage to survive thanks to Viscount Arseid."

I turn to Instructor Rean, "Instructor, you can't fight those two alone. Not on your condition, especially not McBurn. I—"

He cuts me off, "Jessica, get Princess Alfin and Elise to safety."

"Instructor!" I protested.

Besides me, Princess Alfin nods, "We're not exactly helpless, I have my ARCUS for arts, and Elise—"

"I can't afford to get all of you in danger."

"So it's okay if you're the one doing it?!" Elise shouted.

He starts turning around, "No time. Jessica got them to safe—"

"You'll die!" I can't help but shout.

Instructor Rean stops, he turns around, "What do you mea—no, it's Divergent Laws I wouldn't understand. But…is that what you see in the patterns?"

"P-Patterns? Divergent Laws?"

"What are you two talking about?"

I ignore Alfin and Elise.

I reply, "That is…one way this could go, yes."

Instructor Rean nods, "I see. Still, I'm going."

"But—"

"There's really no time! I have to—"

"Then allow me to accompany, you, Master Rean."

We turn our attention to Sharon who just went up the stairs, skipping several steps along the way.

"Sharon!" Instructor Rean exclaimed in surprise.

"Chairman Irina gave me permission, I shall assist you," Sharon replied.

Instructor Rean nods and starts running, "All right. Let's go, Sharon."

Sharon replies, "Yes!"

She then briefly turns to the three of us, "Do not worry, as Lady Alisa's maid, I won't let any harm comes to Master Rean, I swear it."

Sharon then turns her back and starts running after Instructor Rean.

We run towards the VIP room where we can take shelter. All around us are the Orchis Tower security guards and royal guards fighting off the archaisms.

I grip my spear tightly. I'll be the last line of defense should any of them get past the guards and get close to Alfin.

Still, as I am running my mind is working on overdrive.

If Sharon's there, he'll be fine, right?

"Jessica."

Usually, the mentor's death tropes are them heroically standing alone against an enemy, right? If they have a comrade then usually—

"Hey, Jessica, about earlier…"

No. But what if both die instead? Sharon helped us out today, she counts as a mentor.

"Jessica, hey! Is Rean really going to die?!"

I snap, "I don't know, all right?! I—"

I stop as the two royal guards in front of me cease running. Their chests punctured by sharp needles.

Three floating drone archaisms—Sneak Gunner R—materialize in front of them, dropping their cloaking.

"Alfin! Before they disappear again, Aerial Dust art! Elise, be ready!" I hurriedly shout.

Alfin, who had been frozen in shock, snaps to attention, "A-Arcus Activate!"

Elise followed suit and unsheathe the sword she had picked off one of the dead royal guards earlier.

Just in time before their cloaking activates again, a tornado with sharp chunks of rubble materializes.

As expected of Alfin, a quick cast of high-level arts. This should get enough dust on them so their cloaking won't work well.

"Brave Order: Piercing Blows!" I activate my brave order and form a link with Elise.

As soon as the tornado subsided, Elise and I leap forth, stabbing and cutting at the archaisms, right where they're the weakest, guided by my Brave Order.

I look at the archaisms laying on the ground…it's down for good.

I notice Alfin kneeling near the fallen royal guards.

…it's through the heart. Even for this world, they won't…

I kneel beside Alfin and gently guide her away. She doesn't need to see these.

"Jessica, they're—"

I shake my head, "We can't help them."

One of the royal guards, barely conscious nods in confirmation, before coughing up blood.

"T-They're—"

"Alfin, if we stay here, they're dying for nothing," I replied.

"S-she's right, princess," Elise, holding back her tears helped me to guide Alfin away.

"We're not far from the VIP room, let's move," I said.

They nod at me and we continue running to the VIP room.

A single Sneak Gunner G stands between us and the VIP room.

Unlike the R model earlier, this one is equipped with a submachine gun instead of needles and blades. We need to be careful when closing the distance.

As I was contemplating the best way to approach it, from the other end of the hallway, a single knife followed by blazes of flames struck the archaism, destroying it.

I look to the other side.

Vivi…and Cedric.

"Cedric!" Alfin shouted.

We run to meet them.

"Ugh…Sutherland and now here? Why is my luck so bad?" Vivi grumbled.

Cedric snorts, "Bad? Well, it's the opposite for me, be honored. Who would have thought the annoying reporter accosting me turned out to be a Thors' alumna?"

"We can talk later, first, we should head inside," I said.

We then open the door and are greeted by some royal guards who are guarding the room.

"Prince Cedric, Princess Alfin! Thank Aidios you are safe," One of the royal guards said.

I notice Cedric scanning the room.

Let's see…I see Chairman Irina, and Governor Regnitz but no—

"Where are my brother and Lord Rufus?" Cedric asked.

"Prince Olivert and Governor Rufus are helping to take care of the archaisms," One of the guards answered.

Cedric nods, "I see. Then as the Crown Prince, I too, cannot stand idly by."

He then takes off out of the room.

"Y-Your Highness?!"

"Cedric!"

I turn to Alfin, "I'll follow him!"

"We will—"

Alfin cuts the royal guards off, "No! There are barely enough of you to keep the people here safe!"

She then turns to me, "I'm leaving him to you…please, stay safe, both of you."

I nod and run after Cedric.

"Ced—Prince Cedric!" I shouted as I catch up to him.

He chuckles, "Almost slip up, didn't you? I don't mind really, especially as it seems Kendric Lenheim, who is not a prince will be making an early appearance…although I don't have the disguise yet, so that's a moot point."

"This is no time for jest! Do you understand the current situ—"

"I understand quite well! Which is why I am going. As I said, it would bode poorly for Erebonia if Crossbell is facing a crisis so soon after joining our empire. This is why as Crown Prince I cannot just stand and watch, I need to help protect it with my own hands!"

…I nod. I don't think there's stopping him.

"If you are willing to go that far, then so be it. But at least, allow me to accompany you in Kurt's stead. We are joining Prince Olivert and Governor Rufus, I assume?"

Cedric smiles, "Yes, that is the plan. I—someone's coming."

I can hear footsteps ascending the stairs.

Not long after, I can see them reaching the floor we're on. It's the rest of Class VII with Musse and Ash.

"Jessica? Your Highness?" Kurt asked as they start running in our direction.

Cedric nods, "Ah. Kurt, and the rest. Good timing. Come along, we're helping my brother and the Governor General."

"We're…We're going to the roof to help Instructor Rean," Kurt replied.

"No!" I can't help but shout.

Juna turns to me, "Jessica?"

Ash turns to me, "What, you're scared of something?"

"It's not…well…"

With them there, it's playing more to the mentor's death trope.

Kurt looks at me, "Is it the Divergent Laws?"

"Diverge—huh?"

Altina cuts Ash off, "We'll explain later."

I ignore Cedric's questioning look and nod at Kurt.

"I see…if we're not going would it be averted for certain?" Kurt replied.

"No, but there might be a possibility it's more likely to happen were we to go,"

Kurt nods, "Then we're still going."

He's absolutely invoking it! Where the protagonist got reckless and ended up having the mentor sacrifice themselves to save—

Kurt interrupted my thoughts, "Jessica. Calm down. You're not thinking straight."

"I am—"

He shakes his head, "You're not. Correct me if I'm wrong, but you are only making a prediction, correct? And since whatever it is you envision could happen regardless of whether we are there or not, why are you hesitating? We should be there and prevent it from coming to pass."

That's…

Juna adds, "Yeah, you're thinking too much, come on!"

…Yeah they're right. What am I doing? Didn't I just rule out no free will/fatalism this afternoon? No point in debating which one is more likely to happen, I don't have enough data.

Even if we can't do anything to McBurn, we can at least keep Campanella busy.

I nod, "My apologies, I was panicking."

"I…don't quite understand what you are talking about, but I take it that we're in agreement to go up?" Cedric asked.

Musse chimes in, "We should hurry, both of those enforcers will be dangerous to fight alone, even for Instructor Rean."

"Sharon is there too, but I doubt that would matter much against McBurn. We should get moving," I agreed.

We finally reach the 40th floor, the top floor that has access to the rooftop after going up four floors, fighting the sneak gunner archaisms along the way.

"Here it is! We can get to the rooftop from here!" Juna said as she points to a door that connect to the rooftop.

Once again, I feel a chill running down my spine, making the hairs on my neck stand up.

Ash turns to me, "You feelin' it too, prissy girl? An absolute monster is behind that door."

Cedric nods, "I've read the files, but…so this Ouroboros Enforcer No. I, the Almighty Conflagration…"

"Still, we have no other path but forward, let's go," Kurt said as he steps forward and opens the door.

Behind the door, is Instructor Rean and Sharon facing off against Campanella and a man with multicolored hair of green with pink highlights, wearing a loosely buttoned red shirt…McBurn.

Campanella turns to us, "And just in time, they arrived. Almost missed the cue, don't you?"

Instructor Rean shouts, "You guys! Get back! These two are genuine monsters!"

Campanella laughs, "Oh, come now. What a hurtful thing to say, even though we've played off each other rather nicely this afternoon."

He then turns to McBurn, "So, what do you think?"

McBurn gives us a glance, then his eyes stop on me, "Huh, doesn't seem all that special. Not like me, and the Ashen kid, at least. Back in the Pantagruel and now, I don't get the sense she's anything more than a normal human. Nothing mixed in."

Campanella nods, "I see…I didn't think she's anything like you, but…it's nice to get some confirmation."

Wait. Him and Instructor Rean? They share an origin? What's 'mixed'?

McBurn then jerks his head at Cedric, "That goldie there though…that's another story. Didn't get to see him up close during the Civil War, but yeah. There's something inside him."

"Ah I see…the Arnor blood," Campanella remarked.

Arnor blood? Does the Imperial Family have something in their bloodline?

The prince scoffs in response, "I am Cedric Reise Arnor, Crown Prince of this Empire! I know not what you are speaking of, but for your transgression here in Crossbell…I shall have both of your heads!"

McBurn laughs, "Hah! You talk big for a little prince."

Campanella shrugs, "Well, in any case…The Arnor family does have some unique circumstances, but it's known to me. The unknown one is…"

He then turns to me, "Looks like you get to play the girl with mysterious circumstances for longer, congratulations."

"…Just as you are playing the mysterious villain that is connected to the secret of this world?" I replied.

"Exactly! But well…I suppose that's enough of that for now."

Campanella snaps his finger and appears in front of us, "You have fun with those two. I'll be entertaining these ones," He said to McBurn.

"…No!" Instructor Rean shouted.

"Yo, kid. Shouldn't you pay attention to your battle?" McBurn said in amusement.

Sharon chimes in, "Master Rean. Leave Campanella to your students for now. His strength is comparable to mine,"

She then turns to McBurn, "But against this one…If we aren't focused, we will die."

I grip my spear tighter.

…Yeah. He doesn't have the luxury to worry about us right now.

Instructor Rean nods resignedly, "Class VII, Your Highness, Musse, Ash! Here are your orders: Survive! No matter what it takes!"

"No need for you to tell me that!" Ash replied as he prepares his switchaxe.

"We shall do more than that!" Cedric said as he enters into a fencing stance.

Campanella smirks, "Will you now? Show me what you can do!"

He waves his hand, and blades of wind are launched toward us.

I barrel to the right, narrowly avoiding the wind that cut strands of my hair.

"Brave Order: Ebon Crest!"

Silver translucent barriers shimmer around me. Altina activated her brave order.

I notice Kurt running at Campanella, sword ready, Campanella looks relaxed, his arms inviting and—

The next thing I know I'm in front of Kurt, almost got sliced if not for Altina's Brave Order.

"Wow, that's messed up! Almost did a rehash from two years ago, there."

I turn around and Campanella is right where I'm standing before.

Juna fires at him.

Campanella disappears, replaced with Altina.

"A-Allie?!"

I cast analyze arts.

It barely returns anything to me, but…He's casting some magic to switch places with us, there should be a window of time after he switches where we can attack.

I feel the information relayed to my teammates through the ARCUS link. Almost immediately a plan is relayed back through the link…from Musse.

'All-out attack to figure out the timing while Altina's brave order is up'

Musse starts first, firing her orbal riffle. The blue bird-shaped orbal energy shot forward, only to hit Ash.

"Screw you, you damn clown!" Ash shouted as he launches his scythe at Campanella, hitting Juna.

"First blood is mine!" Cedric, who was beside Juna, responds immediately, thrusting his sword forward.

"Owie!" Campanella said mockingly as the sword grazes him before teleporting away.

Cedric scowls.

The shimmering barrier fades away.

Campanella's eyes narrow as he wipes the blood from the small cut Cedric made, "And now… those annoying barriers are gone."

Yes. We need to be careful now. But, if attacked immediately after teleporting, it'll work, as Cedric demonstrated.

If so…

We start to cluster together.

"Arcus activate!"

Altina and I cast La Crest, as double-layered orbal energy shrouds us, shoring up our defenses.

Juna takes the shot.

A flash.

I ready my spear to attack wherever Campanella switches to.

Musse's link informed us that she has switched places.

I turn behind me and rush forward at Campanella, the rest doing the same.

Kurt reaches him first. A wind shield blocks his twin slash.

"Everyone, now!" Kurt shouted.

The ARCUS link goes into overdrive as we rush Campanella, coordinating a fast offense in rapid motions.

"So predictable…Time to switch seats!" Campanella said in amusement.

One moment, my spear was right in front of his face. The next, I'm about three meters away from him.

"Shuffle, shuffle!" Campanella said mockingly.

I look around. All of us had been teleported away from close proximity to Campanella to some distance away.

But a humongous chunk of ice manifests above Campanella, crushing him.

"Teehee, being predictable goes both ways, I'm afraid," Musse said, ARCUS in hand.

Campanella crawls out from the chunk of ice, his clothes ruffled.

"Hmm…not bad. You guys are pretty fun. I guess I can afford to get a little serious."

He snaps his finger again.

The next moment. The sky above us darkens.

"W-What the shit?!" Ash cursed as thick storm clouds gather above us.

Musse looks up, "Ixion Volt…One of the highest level arts of wind element…and cast instantly?"

"Look ou—"

A flash of white.

I register searing pain as I drop to my knees.

A moment later I heard a loud bang, finally catching up with the bright light. We were just struck by lightning.

If it was not for the double-layered La Crest we would have—

"Y-You guys!" I heard Instructor Rean shout.

"Didn't I tell you to pay attention, kid?! This one's a scorcher!"

Immediately I feel immense heat, even as far away as I am from the other battle.

McBurn, holding a spinning ball of flame, with everything burning around him.

"Incandescent Hellfire!" He shouted.

And the flaming ball shoots forward, spins faster, and glows brighter before it becomes enlarged almost like a miniature sun.

At the receiving end, was Instructor Rean.

"Inst—"

"I won't let you!"

Sharon steps in front of him, in the nick of time, taking the ball of flames instead.

She falls back, her skin blackened. No…some parts are even beyond that, showing a cloying white, leathery appearance.

"Sharon!" Instructor Rean shouted as he go to her side immediately.

McBurn smirks at Instructor Rean, "Heh. I'm glad how much you've grown, almost made me go serious back there."

The flames around him burn even more intensely, "But if you keep holding back like that, it won't be any fun."

"Go wild, kid. Let's howl together like wolves at the moon!" McBurn said, taunting Instructor Rean to use his ogre form

Campanella meanwhile, turns to me, "That seems like his only option, yes. Oh my, Jessica, whatever shall you do? Cry again like this afternoon?"

…Calm down. It's not over yet, Sharon took that blow meant for Instructor Rean. That means at this point, killing any of us would undermine her sacrifice. Which means…

I shake my head, "No. Because at this juncture…they're coming, aren't they, Campanella?"

"What do you…Oh. I see. Yes, that seems right."

Campanella scowls, and right on time, a magic circle appears near Instructor Rean.

Three figures appear from the magic circle. The old Class VII.

Machias aimed his shotgun at McBurn, immediately firing. Alisa followed suit and launches a fiery arrow at Campanella.

"Tch…"

"Whoa there!"

McBurn and Campanella exclaimed in surprise as they were forced to dodge.

Emma raises her staff, "Lux Lunae Sanctam/Holy Light of the moon."

With the Hexen Clan's interposed Latin and common tongue incantation, a purple iridescent light descent on the flames burning a large part of the roof, making them fade away.

"…It was simply an illusion the whole time," Musse remarked.

"Lux Solis Medicuri Eam/Light of the sun, heal her."

Another incantation and this time bright light envelops Sharon, restoring some of the burned skins.

…Those flames were not an illusion, it seems.

"Why are you all gawking around for?! Don't let your guard down!"

Celine steps beside us, and a blue dome barrier forms.

"Did that cat just freakin' talk?!" Ash exclaimed.

"We'll explain later. For now, don't step out of the barrier," I replied.

"There are indeed MANY things you need to explain later, Jessica!" Cedric added in exasperation.

McBurn turns to Emma, "Well, if it isn't the Azure Abyss' family."

Campanella shrugs, "Lit up so beautifully too, and not in the hauntingly beautiful way Abyss' magic is."

I keep my sight on McBurn and Campanella, but from the corner of my vision, I see Alisa and Machias checking on Instructor Rean and Sharon.

Emma steps forward, and a similar barrier—except purple in color—forms on her side too.

"If you insist on fighting further, I will be your opponent," She said firmly.

Her staff starts glowing and more magic circle forms in the air.

"I am sister disciple of Vita Clotilde under Crimson Roselia, and member of old Class VII, Emma Millstein!" She declares defiantly at the two enforcers.

Campanella looks appraisingly at the magical display, "So you do have the same power as your sister then. This Hexen clan is quite the family."

Emma is…comparable to the Second Anguis of Ouroboros? That's…Well, I'm glad she's here.

McBurn laughs, "Now we're talking! This is way more fun than the Vermilion Castle snoozefest two years ago! I'm nice and fired up now, let's go and start round two—"

"That's quite enough, vile serpents!"

Prince Olivert bursts into the rooftop, followed by Governor Rufus and the rest of our Instructors.

"Olivert!" Cedric shouted.

Prince Olivert smiles at him, "Are you all right, Cedric? Sorry I'm late."

"I'm fine…but late like this…It's such an Olivert move," Cedric replied.

Prince Olivert laughs, "Haha, I suppose. But it made for a dramatic entry, no?"

Campanella smirks, "Yes, this certainly is becoming quite the dramatic scene, isn't it?"

"You guys took down all the archaisms down there, already? Not bad," McBurn added.

Instructor Michael simply aims his RPG at the two of them in response.

"Is everyone all right?" Instructor Towa asked us.

I nod and stand back up, "Yes, thankfully."

"A bit singed, but we will be fine," Kurt added as he and the rest followed suit and stand back up as well.

"We came as soon as we clean up all those archaisms. Good job hanging on," Instructor Randy said.

Juna smiles, "Yeah, now let's kick some butts, Randy!"

Ash meanwhile scowls, "Took you guys long enough. About time!"

I can see Instructor Randy's eyes twitching imperceptibly.

"Well maybe, you should stop doing reckless shit, Ash! That goes for all of you too!" He said in exasperation.

Campanella looks at Instructor Randy in amusement, "War God's son, haven't seen you since our last fight two years ago. Your sister and I have become fast friends."

"She's not my sister! She's my cousin, okay?!" Instructor Randy retorts.

Prince Olivert chuckles, "Now, now. I'm not one to decline a nice, pleasant chat…But all of us have some pressing matters to attend to, no?"

He then points his gun at them, "Care to answer some questions?"

McBurn smirks, "The Debaucherous Prince, huh? Shame we missed each other in Vermillion Castle last time."

Instead, you fought Viscount Arseid…from what I heard their fight was like two army clashing.

"He's not the only high-profile person here, isn't that right? Jade Rook?" Campanella said as he turns to Governor Rufus.

The Governor chuckles, and points his sword at them, "I haven't been called that in a while. As the Governor General, this tower is in my jurisdiction. Showing up unannounced without my say so like this…Why, your master has not taught you common courtesy, it seems."

Campanella smiles, "As fun as all this is…I'm afraid our time is up."

McBurn nods, "I still want to fight, but…Ah well, this is just a side-show anyway. Didn't seem like we're getting the ones we wanted."

The ones they wanted?

Campanella then turns to Prince Olivert, "Although…as a thank you for the entertainment, I'll answer your question."

Prince Olivert nods, "Then I believe, I shall partake in your 'generosity'. Why have you come here for? And why is the Witch of the Abyss not with you?"

"…That's true. Emma said she felt Vita's presence in Crossbell, but if she's not accompanying them, then…" Alisa trailed off

…Ouroboros does check many of the boxes for mysterious antagonists who are not actually evil, simply of the 'ends justify the means' morality. And Vita is a sister of an old party member, which usually means…

I turn to Campanella, "A discord in Ouroboros' upper echelon regarding the direction it's taking? In which the Second Anguis was the dissenting voice, leading to her leaving your organization? Perhaps she thinks Ouroboros crosses the moral horizon?"

Campanella smirks, "Ding, ding, ding. Bingo, Jessica. Absolutely correct! Your pattern recognition is on point!"

He continues, "To be specific, she got shot down by the rest of the Anguis six to one!"

I nod, "I see. But she supported them playing puppet master in inciting the Erebonian civil war…so this has to be something far worse."

"No comment on that, I'm afraid," Campanella replied.

McBurn shrugs, "Well after that, she storms off on her own. Not even we know where she is."

Emma frowns, "So that's how it is…"

"We're supposed to capture her, but you witches are a pain in the ass with your magics," McBurn said.

Prince Olivert nods, "Interesting, but that's not all, is it? You said you didn't get the ones you wanted. Therefore, more than one. In Sutherland, you were looking for the Jaeger King. However, I doubt someone as notorious as him could slip past the RMP and Intelligence Division in Crossbell. So who is it?"

As expected, he realized it too. In Sutherland, they were looking for Rutger, and the 'twist' was that Rutger had a Divine Knight. So that means…

"The other person you are waiting for…they are a Divine Knight awakener, are they not?" I prodded.

Instructor Rean turns to me, "Was that why they were looking for Rutger? Because he's a Divine Knight awakener?"

Campanella laughs, "Hahaha! Oooh…Scary, scary. You two make a frightening combination, Prince Olivert, and Jessica."

Prince Olivert pushes on, "So your experiment involves the Divine Knights. What is it exactly you are planning here?"

In response, Campanella simply snaps his finger.

"T-That's!" Juna suddenly shouted, looking up.

There, flying under the moon is a giant red mech.

Instructor Rean shouted, "Emma, Celine, Altina!"

"Understood!"

"On it!"

Emma and Celine erected another barrier with their spell, while Altina summoned Claiomh Solais to manifest its shield.

A loud bang is heard and I feel the vibrations even behind the barrier. A sonic boom?!

With astounding speed it had descend, crushing the landing ship used by the inspection team from Pantagruel.

The red mech, now illuminated by the moonlight is almost birdlike, with sharp talons on its hands, and two wide feathered metallic wings.

"This is…" Instructor Michael gasped in surprise.

Instructor Randy nods, "Yeah. The thing that wiped out an entire Calvardian airborne division two years ago."

Campanella replies, "Not quite…Presenting Aion Type-β II. The newest model! We don't have the Sept-Terrion of Zero used to power it two years ago, though. So we can't show you its full power."

Sept-Terrion…so their experiment is making Divine Knight fight Aions which are connected to a Sept-Terrion. But why? What do I know about the Divine Knights…?

"I stand before thee as a shadow...A silhouette of the Great One, charged with the governance of the Shadow Trial."

"…What exactly is the Great One?" I asked.

Emma turns to me, "The Divine Knights are fragments of Great Power. Given the shape of this white shadow in front of us that resembles a Divine Knight…The Great One must be…the possessor of said Great Power."

A conversation with the mysterious white shadow on old Class VII's last excursion to the old School House flashes in my mind.

Divine Knights…Fragments of Great Power…It is clear now that Divine Knights are central to the overarching story in Erebonia. They are being pitted with Aions, which are connected to the Sept-Terrion in Crossbell, two years ago. Given that Sept-Terrions are seemingly always at the center of each game's plot, the true nature of the Divine Knights is…Fragments of a Sept-Terrion.

That means—

"Shut the hell up!"

Juna's shout interrupted my thoughts, turning my attention back to the conversation I'd tuned out in favor of thinking about the Divine Knight.

Juna glares at Campanella, "…I've stood here, listening to you go on and on with your nonsense…! This is our country! Why does everyone…! Why is everyone doing whatever the hell they want with it! Erebonia…the Society….every single one of you treats Crossbell as your plaything!"

She points at the Aion aggressively, "And you even bring that thing back with you! I've had enough!"

"Junie, wait!"

Instructor Randy and I hold Juna back from rushing at Campanella.

Campanella chuckles, "Aren't you a spirited one? You're a Crossbellan then? It's quite amusing, but really…what are you going to do about it? Just going to charge at us alone with righteous fury, are you?"

Juna who is struggling against Instructor Randy and my hold relent. Instructor Randy nods at me and we release her.

"Juna, calm d—"

She ignores me and continues to glare at Campanella, "If that's what it takes, then yes! But I'm not alone that have the will to fight for our home! The Special Support Section will fight too!"

I caught Instructor Randy flinching.

Yeah…right now they are…

Juna continues, "…Randy's already here! There's no way the SSS will let the likes of you walks free!"

Instructor Randy grits his teeth.

McBurn turns to Juna, "Special Support Section, huh? I've heard a lot about 'em. Heard they even manage to crack the Steel Maiden's helmet, quite an accomplishment. Wouldn't mind fighting them, the Divine Blade of Wind too, since he's with the SSS leader on the run and all. But…"

Campanella laughs, "Haha…I'm afraid the Governor General there have them occupied at the moment."

Juna turns to Governor Rufus, "Huh?"

In response, the Governor only chuckles.

Yeah…They're in Mishelam. So that's why he wanted us to be here. So he can use Instructor Rean and us as further propaganda if we solve the problem instead of the local heroes.

"…the blockade in Mishelam! It's not to keep them in, but to keep them out?" Machias asked.

Prince Olivert frowns and turns to the governor, "So you're keeping the SSS and people affiliated with them penned up in Mishelam?"

Governor Rufus smiles, "Oh, it's not as if we keep them tied up or anything. Not even Banning, the Zero Child, Yin, or Arios MacLaine the Divine Blade…who are all on the wanted list. We are simply not allowing them to leave Mishelam. It is a resort area, so quite a nice place to stay, wouldn't you agree, Your Highness?"

Prince Olivert glares at him, "And so the reason Speaker MacDowell is nowhere to be seen tonight is…?"

Governor Rufus nods, "Indeed. It is because he is currently 'enjoying' a nice vacation in Mishelam, isn't that right, Major Michael?"

Instructor Michael reluctantly nods, "Yes. Along with his granddaughter, Elie MacDowell."

Ah. He knows. I suppose that makes sense, he probably has to keep an eye on Instructor Randy.

"Why…why would you do such a thing? They could…they could help…" Juna said weakly.

"Haha! That's EXACTLY why they are being kept away," Campanella said.

He continues, "The SSS is a nuisance to Erebonia. They can't have local heroes saving the day, potentially becoming a symbol and rallying point for Crossbellan that would undermine Erebonia's authority! So they keep the SSS away, and in their place…"

He glances at Instructor Rean, "…Is the Ashen Chevalier and his heroic students. Proving to Crossbell citizens that Erebonia has heroes they can depend upon. Unlike the SSS who can't even be bothered to show up."

Instructor Rean flinches.

Juna drops her weapons and falls to her knees, "I-I've been…What I've been doing today, it's all for this?"

Kurt, Altina, and I immediately approach her.

I turn to her, "Juna, regardless of the machinations behind our actions today, we still—"

I was cut off by a sound of a loud engine. The Aion has come online once more and then flies to the night sky.

"Welp. Looks like that's our cue," McBurn said.

Campanella nods, "Yes, it's about time we leave as well although…"

He smirks and turns to Juna, "I'm sure this is a shock to you, but on the other hand, I'm sure a certain someone already knows. After all…she should have seen and heard enough things in town to notice the patterns."

Juna turns to me.

I can't help but flinch.

"Well, ta-ta. Thank you for being an excellent company this evening," Campanella said before teleporting.

MacBurn followed suit, "See ya. Hope you guys can give me a good fight next time."

He too then teleported away.

"…Did you know?" Juna asked, glaring at me.

I reluctantly nod, "…I didn't think there was anything we could do about it, so I opt to not make you worr—"

"YOU DON'T GET TO MAKE THAT CHOICE!"

"I—"

I feel pain on my face. She slapped me.

"Juna!"

"Calm down, Juna!"

Kurt and Altina said holding her back.

Juna continues glaring at me, "You said you're willing for me to rant at you? Then fine!"

"Can't you Erebonians just leave us alone! YOU occupied us, dragged us to your war with Calvard, and then brought those railway guns here!"

She continues, crying, "I know…that you guys have your own problems too. I've been trying to understand, I do but…I DON'T CARE ANYMORE! In the end, aren't you just dragging us into YOUR problem?!"

"I—"

"Shut up! You're just the same! What right do you have keeping that from me?! Aren't you just the same? Thinking you know better! JUST LIKE EREBONIAN KNOWS BETTER WHAT'S GOOD FOR CROSSBELL, AM I RIGHT?!"

Instructor Rean kneels down beside her, "Juna, that's not fair to—"

"And you think you're any better?! Why am I the only one that don't know about what your deal is with the ogre form or whatever until today?! YOU GUYS ARE ALWAYS KEEPING ME OUT OF THE LOOP!"

Kurt and Altina flinch.

"…Just give it back…you guys took our pride, our dignity. And even our one last hope…You can't even let us have our heroes around to give us hope… Give it back! Give our Crossbell back! That free city where anyone can dream! GIVE IT BACK!"

No one really had anything to say.

Crossbell…was never free, even before the occupation, but…pointing that out to her at this point…is far too cruel.

Juna then forcibly removes herself from Kurt and Altina and storms off.

"Lord Rufus, is all this really necessary?" Cedric asked.

"The order came from the Chancellor himself."

"I…see."

Governor Rufus chuckles, he then glances at Instructor Rean and Class VII, old and new, "Now then…that dramatical hysterics notwithstanding, please have a good rest, everyone. Tomorrow is time for Crossbell's new heroes to get to work."

A.N. Well those two guards die brutally. But well...Trails might not kill off major characters much, but random nameless NPC? Yeah you're done for. RIP the Liberl guards massacred by Renne and the rest of the enforcers in Sky, Nameless terrorists and G that got killed by the Red Constellation in Crossbell and those random soldiers that got killed by Crow's terrorists in Cold Steel.