Trails of Eastern Steel

by TF1990

This a rewrite of the first Cold Steel game, with some twists concerning Rean Schwarzer, the rest of the story will mostly follow canon. -Instead of training in Ymir, Rean left with his Master to travel the eastern part of the Continent. -Emphasis on Rean/Alisa -A more experienced, but still as dense and insecure (maybe a bit more than canon) Rean. -Can somewhat control his Power

26. The Fifth Free Day Part 2

Hello everyone here is the part of two of the fifth Free Day, I hope you all enjoy it!

Like always some info:

Spoken words are between " "

Thoughts are between ( )

To Soup100, thank you for leaving another review and I am glad to see that you enjoyed the build for the reveal of Rean's power, as for closure for him that will still take a little while.

To the Guest who encouraged me with his review, thank you. I hope that you enjoy my story.

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Outside the old schoolhouse Class VII assembled to do their monthly investigation, though Rean was quite curious why Alisa was avoiding looking at him but one look at Emma, Fie and Laura's smirks he wisely refrained from asking what was going in front of the others. Instead, he focused on going over everything Crow and Millium should pay attention to, though he had to ask Jusis to keep Millium still to keep her from running inside to the elevator. This time the light for the fifth floor was on and like its predecessor the Higher Elements were also active on it, "Alright, let's get started. Since we have two new additions, we will change the Combat Links a bit so that everyone can work together with them and this time we will also try something different, namely a new function of the Arcus Unit called 'Burst'."

"Finally, I was wondering when you lot would try that one out. What was the hold up with that, anyway?"

"Oh, just the simple fact that we weren't informed about that ability, Instructor Sara. I wonder who forgot to tell us about it?" The rest of the class followed the conversation between them with confusion on their faces at the beginning, though it was soon clear that the Arcus had an additional function that Sara had forgotten to tell them about. Ignoring the cold looks from her students, the purple haired tried to defend herself, "Hey now, you all got the updated instructions manual with that information when you became capable of using the Rush Ability, it is not my fault if you don't read it thoroughly."

Rean closed his eyes and prayed for patience, "A fair point if we had gotten it in the first place, apparently thanks to a printing mistake, we never got the pages about the 'Burst' Ability with those pages, only the ones with the 'Rush'. Sharon asked me this morning if it was possible to get some data about that ability as Chairman Irina asked her for it which is the only reason why I know about it." Turning a blind eye to Alisa's groan he continued starring at Sara who now looked a bit uncomfortable at that information, deciding that this was enough wasted time on this topic, he turned around to his classmates.

"The 'Burst' ability is basically an upgraded function of 'Rush' but instead of just two people using it, this one allows four people to attack at the same time. The drawback here is twofold, one we need way more energy to unleashed it compared to 'Rush' and second, we need precisely four people to use, it doesn't work with just three people or more than four. Which isn't a bad thing if we can use it properly, our class has eleven people in total which gives us two group who can use 'Burst' and one pair to use 'Rush' and one person to jump in case the others need support."

"That arrangement will only work here inside the old schoolhouse and not during our field studies where we are split up, still just the fact that we can use it here, especially against the boss monsters is going to be a big help. In which case, I hope that there are a lot of monsters on this new floor, because we are going to need a lot of practise to get used to that ability, so that we don't screw up later."

The rest agreed with Alisa and started talking about adding trainings sessions outside their usual ones for that new ability, "Damn, you just heard about it, not even two minutes ago and you all are already making plans for additional training. Seems like your unhealthy need to train every day has infected our poor classmates, but don't worry old Crow is here to show them how to have a good time."

Rolling his eyes at Crows statement, he was going to let it go until he remembered something else that he should mention, "I nearly forgot, Crow, Milium. There is something I also must show you two, I can use a 'Craft' to strengthen myself immensely and doing so my appearance changes quite a bit. The drawback is that it overburdens my body which is why it is only a last resort kind of Craft, I will use in case we need it during our investigation if not at the end of it, I will show you what it looks like."

Rean could see the curiosity in their eyes and while Crow just shrugged his shoulders in response, Millium on the other hand tried to get him to show it now, "Oh, oh, oh! Is that what you used to get from Mater Park to the western harbour in record time, last month?! I can't wait to see that! Is it true that you also used it to cut up several containers made from steel into smaller parts!?"

Crow's mouth fell open at hearing what the short girl was saying, the rest were now warily looking at her, wondering how much she actually knows or rather how much the Intelligence Division knows. The swordsman gave Alisa a look that clearly said, 'I told you so.', before answering her questions, "Well, I did use it to get there quickly as for the other matter, do you really think that I can cut steel like that?" She may have been only thirteen but the short knowing look that appeared in her eyes told him that she wasn't as naive she made herself appear to be. She made a show of thinking about it, "I don't know that is why I am asking, Rean."

"Perhaps then we should see how today goes, who knows maybe you will get your answer or not. We just have to see then but we should get going the investigation won't do itself." After that he turned around and started going into the new floor, the rest followed him unnoticed by them was Crow who now glanced at Rean with a calculating look in his eyes as if considering something. With the new additions, Class VII took a bit longer than usual to reach the boss room, though they put that time to good use by getting used to both new members and the 'Burst' ability, as it proved to be quite useful in dealing with several monsters at once.

They had managed to pull off two 'Burst' one after another with two different groups and thanks to there being a lot of monsters in their path, they managed to reach the end with enough energy to unleash the new ability in the upcoming fight. Like always they rested for a while before going inside the boss room, seeing the others talking with each other or just resting and preparing for the fight, Alisa used this opportunity to talk with Rean who seemed lost in his thoughts, "Mira for your thoughts?"

"…..Hmm? Oh, it is nothing just thinking about something." The raised eyebrow he got in return told him that he better elaborate, followed with her eyes narrowing when she saw him hesitating, "Ok, now I am getting worried. What kind of reckless things are you thinking about now?" Deciding that he should come clean right now or he would just risk her anger, "Well, do you remember last month just before I fought against that doppelganger that I said that I heard a voice?"

"How could I forget about that? Besides it being spooky that only you managed to hear it, there was also the fact that while you tried to hide it, you were quite upset about hearing that voice inside your head……Don't tell me you heard something again?!"

"No, since then I haven't heard anything else but the feeling that I am being watched is stronger than usual…ops!" He quickly put his hand over his mouth, but the damage was already done, his first reaction after that was to try and put some distance between him and Alisa whose eyes were wide at his slip up, a moment later she began smiling at him. That smile unlike her normal ones gave him quite the feeling of being in danger hence his instinct to have some distance between them, unfortunately she stopped him from moving away by gripping his arm and she put quite a bit of force into it, "What do you mean by that the feeling of you being watched is stronger than usual and why is this the first time I am hearing about this? Since when has this been going on?!"

"Ouch, ouch, careful Alisa you are hurting me! I mean, it is just a feeling nothing concrete besides it isn't like I can prove it, ouch!" The archer continued putting force into her hand while ignoring the curious looks from the rest of Class VII, "Since when?!"

Resigning himself to his fate, Rean answered her with the truth, "Since the first investigation five months ago. Like I said it is just a feeling and nothing that can be proven besides it isn't like we can do anything about, right?" She counted to ten inside her head and let go of his arm, "I don't care if it can be proven or not, we still don't know anything about why this building is like this and after last month, you of all people should be careful here. Just to make sure is there anything else that you haven't told me?"

"Perhaps just one more thing?" Rean's innocent look didn't stop the anger inside Alisa from rising again, though using all her willpower she suppressed it and just gave him a glare, "Ok, you and I are going to have a nice and long talk as soon as we are done here. Fair warning though, Schwarzer you are in a lot of trouble, hmpfh!" Done with her threat, she turned away from him ignoring his pleading look, (Sigh, well done Rean! You and your big mouth, seems like I just keep pissing her off. Sigh.)

Sighing repeatedly in his head, he looked at the time and paid no attention to his classmates' glances at him and the archer, "Alright, I think it is time to go inside, from what I can sense we should be dealing with just one monster but even from here I can already tell that this one is far stronger than anything we have faced in the old schoolhouse. The formation for this fight will be me, Laura, Fie and Gaius at the front, Jusis, Crow and Milium will be in the middle for supporting the front and defending the backline. The rest will oversee the casting of Orbal Arts and keeping the way for retreating open, we are going to use 'Burst' if there is an opportunity but only once. I think it will be safer if we leave the other one in reserve in case we need it, one last check to see if we are ready than we go inside."

Done with that Class VII plus Sara entered the last room, the moment they were inside a bright light appeared in the middle of the room, forming a western looking ice blue dragon that had a horn growing out of his chest. It didn't waste any time before launching an attack, with a mighty roar it created several ice spikes in the air to launch at Class VII, reacting quickly Alisa, Crow and Machias used their weapons to shoot them down. With that as the signal the students assumed their position to start the fight, Laura and Fie dashed forward with the silver haired girl using her sword guns stop the dragon from moving while Laura followed up with an overhead strike from her great sword to its head.

From the simple fact that Laura attack didn't manage to leave even a scratch on its head proved that its hide was extremely strong, upon seeing this Rean changed his attack, "Fifth Form, Converging Moonlight!" Using the speed provided by the Iai stance the swordsman managed to attack, the monster's front leg four times in a row, all the attacks landed on the same spot, hurting it to the point that it jumped backwards to distance itself from Rean. As if they had planned it, the spot where it jumped to was the one where several Orbal Arts were launched at, catching the dragon off guard it only managed to cover itself with its wings to lessen the damage.

Not wasting this opportunity, the front attacked again after the barrage of the Orbal Arts was done with Gaius leading the charge jumping up he targeted the left wing of the monster with Laura choosing the right one. Their attacks didn't manage to leave any wounds but at least managed to stop the dragon from moving away, one look at Fie was enough for her to understand what Rean had in mind. Gripping her swords gun in a reverse grip, she unleashed her speed to the maximum along with the swordman using the second form to keep up with her, their slashes were far too light to do any damage, but it was alright since their goal was just to stop the monster from moving around, making it easier to be targeted by Arts, bullets and Airgetlam punching it.

It was getting irritated by the students buzzling around, with a deep breath it released a shockwave pushing them back along with releasing several ice spikes that were bigger and longer than the first ones in the direction of the backline. "Lammy! Ultimate barrier!" The silver puppet managed to intercept the ice spears, taking every single one upon it, the force of that attack threw it so far back that it crashed into the wall. "Hey, you big meanie! How dare you hurt Lammy like that! Lammy, use Riot Beam!"

To the surprise of everyone present, Airgetlam shot out a beam of pure light hitting the monster right in its face. With a shout of pain, it staggered back, not missing this chance Crow used his Craft 'Rapid Volley' to further damage its face causing it to lose its balance, seeing this the front line used 'Burst' to harm it even more followed by another barge of Orbal Arts forcing it to its knees. Still angry at the dragon Millium called out to her puppet, "Come on, Lammy!"

Following that order it started to emit a bright light and transformed into a giant hammer several times bigger than the girl itself, using both her hands to take the handle she left her position and started dashing forward. One side of the hammer started spitting out fire further pushing her speed to a new level, sensing a threat to its life the boss monster summoned a shield of ice around it to protect itself. Assessing the situation quickly, Rean switched his combat link to Crow who grasped what he had in mind quickly.

Hosting both of his Orbal Guns he fired several bullets into the air without any obvious target, though a second later an ignition, attached to the bullets, propelled them faster into the direction of the dragon. To the ones with sharp enough eyes, they saw how the bullets lined themselves into five rows before hitting the ice shield, each bullet hitting into another pushing them further inside the ice, "You are done for, Cross Raven!" At the snap of his fingers the bullets destroyed the ice and exploded, harming the dragon, before it could react Millium had arrived above its head wielding her giant hammer smashing it down with all her strength, the boost from the fire added more power to the downward swing, "Giant Breaker!!"

With no shield or any other defences, the transformed Airgetlam landed on its head hammering it down to the ground with enough force to destroyed it upon impact to the ground, "Daring to bully Lammy like that, hmpfh!" Millium stuck her tongue to the now headless corpse of the monster, ignoring the shocked looks from the others, "Well, at least it is over. Good work, everyone. Kudos to the new members of Class VII Crow and Millium, with that display I have no doubt that we will rely on you in the upcoming field study."

"Hehehe, now you see how awesome me and Lammy are, Jusis. Just leave all the fighting to me, I will protect you!" The blonde noble flicked her forehead hard as a response to that statement before proceeding to ignore her and the snickering Machias, putting his guns away Crow faced Rean, "Man, I heard about some of things that go on here but I sure as hell wasn't expecting something like that to appear here. Is it always like this when a new floor appears? Anyway, I didn't have any trouble linking with you all, so I would call this trip a rousing success."

"Having the two of you along was definitely a big help that is for sure, still don't let your guard down until we are out of here. This place has a way of surprising us like nothing else…..hmm? Something wrong Rean?" Alisa noticed that Rean was looking around like he was waiting for something to happen, "There is no tremor this time, does that mean that nothing has changed or is there something else going on?"

With that reminder, the rest besides the newcomers recalled the tremor that had appeared shortly after they had defeated the boss monster last month along with the appearance of the red door and Rean's doppelganger, "I, for one, won't be disappointed if nothing else happens. I mean this place is already weird enough we don't need anything more happening here, right?"

Most of Class VII was of the same opinion as Elliot, though Rean had a feeling that they weren't going to be so lucky, deciding to ignore it the swordman called their attention, "Anyway, we have accomplished our goals here, the investigation of the new floor along with introducing Crow and Millium to how this goes and as a bonus we even managed to get the hang of 'Burst'. You guys have earned some rest now, also Sharon told me that she would cook us another feast to celebrate our investigation. On our way out of here we should keep our eyes peeled for anything that looks different just in case."

With that done Rean led his classmate out of the room leaving their instructor behind, (Hmm, with each new floor that appears the monsters are stronger than before but not too strong for the students, it almost seems like there someone or something that adjusts the difficulty level for each floor to match the strength of Rean and the others. Perhaps I should talk with Principal again to stop with these investigations, I mean they are good for training and polishing the combat links but still I would rather know what we are dealing with instead of just reacting to what happens.) Sara looked around one last time before joining the others at the teleportation device and lighting it up to return to the elevator room.

"Wow, I don't know about you guys, but I could get used to these things, any chance we could install these at the dormitory and in the classroom? Imagine, you could sleep in to the last minute, eat your breakfast and just use one of these to appear in the classroom just before class starts, wouldn't that be awesome?"

Alisa rolled her eyes at Crow's crazy idea; she turned around to make sure that Rean wasn't left alone in case something like last month happened again, just for her heart to stop beating for a moment at what she was seeing or rather who she wasn't seeing, "Guys, where is Rean?!" The rest looked at her in confusion before they also realised that they were a man short, somehow Rean had disappeared during their teleportation.

"You have got to be kidding me! I knew that something was going to happen, but I wasn't expecting to be transported here, wherever here is. Alisa is going to kill me if I don't get back quickly." The moment Rean stepped out of the light; he noticed that something was wrong. He couldn't sense his classmates and this room didn't look like the ones he had seen before; this one was dimly lit, and he couldn't see the walls at all, telling him that this room was far bigger than the others. Adopting an Iai stance, he was ready for whatever was going to appear, and it didn't take very long until he sensed something approaching him.

Focusing on one direction he soon saw it, much to his surprise it seemed to be another mimic but this time it hadn't taken his form but the appearance of Yui, not letting his guard down he waited for it to make the first move, but it didn't move in any way, it just looked at him before spitting out two words filled with disgust, "You Monster!" Done with that it changed its form to Itsuki, but it still didn't attack only continuing speaking, "You are an abomination, the only thing you can do is taint and destroy everything you touch!" After speaking it changed its form again to Akari to hurl insults at him, then to Haru and so on, it took the appearances of his acquaintances from the East even to the habitants of Tasogare Town but still it didn't attack only abusing him with its words.

Besides being surprised at what was going on, Rean soon calmed down just letting the being continue insulting him, however he still didn't let his guard down at all waiting for any sign of an attack. (Before understanding the situation, I shouldn't act. Last time my doppelganger just attacked me without saying anything. This time it is just standing there taunting me, why? It doesn't matter, if it thinks that this enough to rattle me then it is severely underestimating me.)

Seeing that it didn't seem to do more than jeer at him, Rean tried to sense his surroundings better while keeping a part of his focus on the other being. That is until it changed forms once again but this time into Alisa's, causing him to widen his eyes before anger blossomed inside him, "How dare you?!"

"What is the matter, Rean? Aren't you happy upon seeing me?" The mimic tried to imitated Alisa's manner of speech but before the swordsman could react its face changed into one of pure hatred, "Because I sure as hell can't stand the sight of you! I can't understand how shameless you can be, do you really think that you are worthy of being in Class VII, at Thors or rather how can something like you, ever be worthy of being around other people?! You are a demon, not worthy of anything besides contempt and hatred. How could you even think that I and the others were ok with your presence after seeing what you really are and that is not even worst of it all!"

Rean knew that this wasn't the real Alisa speaking, knew that the kind-hearted girl he had come to know over the last months would never say anything like that to anyone but with each word his heart started hurt more, because in the deepest part of his mind he knew that it was correct that he didn't have any right at all to remain at Thors surrounded by his friends and her. "The worst of it all is the fact you seem to have feelings for me, urgh just speaking it out loud is enough to make me want to vomit! How dare you look at me like that!? What makes you think that I would ever return those feelings for something as vile as you, you disgust me!! The mere fact that you are alive is…….."

"Enough!!!" Rean's shout was enough to prevent it from speaking any further, he calmly looked at it with his eyes devoid of any emotion, "You are right, I don't have any right to have that type of feelings towards her and I won't deny that after last month I should have left the academy even if they accepted me for what I am, I still should have left and disappeared from their lives."

"Accepted you?! Hahahahah, don't make me laugh the only reason why we kept you around was because we can use you as a slave for fighting. Accepting a disgusting monster like you, not even the goddess is capable of something like that."

"That is where you are wrong, I know that they accepted me and that is more reason why I shouldn't be even here. If others learned of my power they would treat Class VII, Instructor Sara and even Sharon badly, even if they say that they are ok with that, I am not. Why should they suffer because of me, that isn't fair for them. As for my feelings for Alisa, you are also completely right, I don't have any right to feel that way towards her or anyone else and yet I do, so the only way to deal with this is to bury those feelings deep inside me and make sure that they remain buried forever."

"Do you really think that you are capable of that?! Deep down you never liked the fact that Charles Noir was trying to get closer to me, if we get together can you honestly hold the ogre back from emerging?!"

The mere mention of that possibility woke the ogre up, keeping a lid on it, Rean still appeared calm on the outside, "Yes, because she would have made that decision herself and she has every right to be happy, no matter what I feel. Anyway, this has gone long enough, last month you tested me in battle, this time you are testing my resolve. I don't know who or what you are, but it is clear as day that you are testing me, why I don't know but I will find out as long as I advance further down the floors."

Rean called upon the Ogre, his aura changed along with his appearance, "The fact that you are able to assume the forms of those people from the East along with knowing my feelings is proof enough that you can somehow look into my memories and mind. Then you also should have seen what happened after that day, I made an Oath to myself and the world. To cement it I even got those words inked on my back, I will follow through on what I swore on that day and nothing you say or do will stop me! That is proof of my resolve, so test me all you want but know this put them or her in any danger to test me and I swear I will tear this place apart brick by brick if I must until nothing remains just to get my hands on whatever you are!!"

Before the mimic could say anything towards that declaration, the Ogre cut it into several pieces with its demise, though before it disappeared it looked amused at him, a bright light appeared revealing a teleporter. Not hesitating he stepped into it while undoing his 'Spirit Control', a moment later he was back inside the room where they had fought the boss monster earlier. Spreading his senses he couldn't detect anything else here, sure that he was alone he left the room just to see the teleporter lighting up to reveal Alisa, Jusis, Sara and Gaius looking around with worried looks on their faces.

Spotting him a moment later, Alisa dashed forward to hug him so hard with relief that she squeezed the air out of him, "Rean!! Are you alright?! Where were you and why didn't you answer your Arcus?! I have been worried sick that something had happened to you." Luckily for Rean the hug was a short one as she started to look for any signs of injuries on his body, that along with the visible relief on the others faces made him feel touched for their concern. That didn't stop him from taking a sudden breath as Alisa touched his body that was suffering the backlash from him using is power even if it had been just for a short moment.

That didn't go unnoticed by them, not seeing any wounds on his body the archer came to the only reasonable conclusion, "You used your power, didn't you? In that case you are coming with me to the Instructor Beatrix immediately for a check-up, there you can explain where you have been and what happened."

"If I said that I somehow got left behind when we teleported would you believe me?" The glares he got in return were answer enough, sighing he could only think about how he would explain just what happened, heck he wasn't sure that he, himself understood what was going on, "Thought so, oh well….Is there any reason why we aren't using the teleporter to go back?" They looked at him like they couldn't believe that he had really just asked that question, "Because we sure as Gehenna aren't you going to risk something else happening to you Rean! I am thinking that we have been too lax with just trusting these devices perhaps we should stop using them altogether?"

Rolling his eyes at his instructor, Rean just stepped inside it and waved the others to him, "There is nothing worry about, while I won't say that it won't happen again in the future for now, there shouldn't be a problem in using these. Besides isn't this the fastest way of getting me into the infirmary?" The flippant way he was ignoring what had just happened to him, pissed the archer off but he was right that it was indeed the fastest way out of the building and she got the feeling that he was really sure that it wouldn't happen again at least for now, sharing a long look with the others she accepted the risk though she made sure to tightly warp her arm around his just to be sure that he wouldn't disappear again.

This time Rean managed to reach the elevator room where the rest of his class was waiting for him the relief was visible on their faces, though it didn't take long for Fie to tease Alisa, "My, my Alisa. I know you were scarred that he disappeared still is there any need to hug him that tightly?" The teasing remark was enough for her to blush while letting him go and try to defend herself, with his return the entire class relaxed enough to tease the archer, "You know, I thought you all were just exaggerating with all the weird stuff that was supposedly happening here but seems like you were right all along. So, what happened to you Rean?"

Before he could try to answer Crow question, Alisa cut in, "We can hear about that later for now, he is going to Instructor Beatrix for a check-up. Don't even try to get out of this, you are going, and I am going to make sure that you get some rest afterwards." Deciding that arguing wasn't going to change anything, Rean let her drag him away under the amused looks of the rest.

Sometime later Beatrix was done with his examination, "Besides being a bit exhausted, there is nothing wrong with you. I would recommend some rest like last time, though since this is the second time this happened inside the old schoolhouse perhaps, we should really stop with the monthly investigation for a while. At least until we instructors are sure what is going inside that building." That suggestion caused Alisa to nod beside her, "That is a good idea or rather Rean shouldn't be allowed inside until we know for sure what it is going on with that place.

"Sorry Alisa, Instructor Beatrix. I can appreciate your concern for me but as long as the decision to go there lies with me, I won't stop. Especially after today, I am more determined than ever to unveil whatever secret there is." They had already expected that answer, but it didn't mean that Alisa would stop trying to talk some sense into him, "I can understand that you are curious about it, even I admit that I also want to know what is going in there but after whatever there is literally kidnapped you today, I am not sure that it is a good idea for you to go back there."

Rean understood where she was coming from, however after what he saw today there was no way he would let them go inside without him, who knew what that being would do to them just to make sure that it could continue testing him for whatever reason, "Alisa, I am sorry, but I won't stop." His declaration made her both her concern and anger rise again, though before she could try to persuade him Beatrix drew their attention to her, "Now, now you two. There is no need to argue about this at the moment, while Rean is right that the decision is his. Nonetheless he should also remember that he is still a student here at the academy and in case we, the instructors, decided that it is too dangerous for him, he won't be allowed inside no matter how much he wants to."

It wasn't often that the students saw the sterner side of the usual soft spoken head nurse but when they did, they listened to her. Seeing that they were calming down, she changed the subject, "Well, like I said I recommend that you rest for now. You are more than welcome to use one of the beds here, are sure that you don't to want to?" Shaking his head at the offer, Rean stood up and bowed to the older woman, "Thank you for the offer, Instructor Beatrix. There is no need for that however, I can just recover while walking around campus. Besides Alisa here will make sure that I don't do anything too strenuous for the rest of the day."

A snort escaped her before she looked at him, "You can be sure of that, I won't let you out of my sight until you are back to the dorm and even there, I will keep both eyes on you, Mister." Beatrix smiled at them, "Then I can rest easy. How about you come tomorrow afternoon back here for our weekly get to together, Rean?" After assuring her that he would be here, the students left the infirmary and were going towards the exit of the main building when the archer grabbed his arm and dragged him into the empty classroom that their class usually used, "Alright Rean, spill it!"

He had already expected this when he gave the principal his report on what happened to him at the infirmary, still he tried to feign ignorance on the matter, "Hmm? Spill what Alisa?" The way her eyes narrowed at him was enough to know that he wouldn't get out of this without at least telling a part of the truth, "Oh, I don't know, how about the truth on what you really happened to you today?! And don't even try to fool me with that nonsense that you just fought another mimic like you told the principal! I and the others besides Crow and Millium saw right through your attempt at hiding the truth. So, I will say it again spill it!"

"And if I don't want to?"

That answer stopped her glare and softened her face after a short moment of surprise, "Then I will respect that, however I will also say that I am here in case you want to talk." One look at her and he was already feeling guilty, along with urge to hug and comfort her, "(I can't really deny it anymore, that I am whipped by her. Aidios if she only knew the kind of power she has over me). Sigh, alright, alright. No need to look so down, it is not that I don't want to talk about it, but I just don't want you and the others to worry."

"I would say that it is too late for that, just the fact alone that you disappeared like that nearly stopped my heart…..ehh, I mean I was quite worried when I didn't see you with us. It is not like I want to force you, but I know you well enough to know that whatever it is that happened with that mimic it somewhat unnerved you. If it had just been a normal fight like before you would have simply told us and not try to hide it, that means that something else happened there and it most likely involves us, because if this involved just you, you wouldn't be worried about it all."

A wry grin appeared on his face after listening to her reasoning, "Am I that transparent to you? Geez, feels like at this rate I won't have any secrets left." That managed to bring a smile back to her face, "What can I say, after spending so much time together I am rather proud on how I can see through you. I already said that I won't force you to tell me what happened, but you better be prepared then because I will keep a close eye on you every time we are at the old schoolhouse from now." Deciding that he really should tell her a part of the truth without going too much into the details, however he did try one last thing before that, "What would you say if I wanted to be the only one doing the investigation from now on?"

Alisa started laughing thinking that he was joking until a look at his face told her that he was actually serious about that suggestion, "Then I would say, keep dreaming because there is no way in Gehenna that I or the others will let you do that! How can you even suggest something like that?!" He knew that there was no way that they would accept that, still it had been worth a try, "Can you blame me? I just want to keep you and the others save from harm."

"And you can't blame us that we want the same thing for you, Rean. I know that I said that I wouldn't force you to tell me what happened but now I am getting really worried about this." She came closer to him and acted without thinking, by putting her hands on his cheeks forcing him to look directly into her eyes, "Hey, whatever it is you are worried about, I am here for you, and nothing will ever change that. So, please talk to me." Overlapping her hand with his, Rean looked deeply into her eyes getting lost in them, (I don't know what I did to be so lucky that I was able to meet her and be her friend, I will be forever grateful to whatever deity made this possible.)

Taking a deep breath, he talked about what happened and his suspicions about what was going on, "Last month I was tested in battle, this time it tested my resolve by taking various forms of people that I know and was trying to see if I would collapse under their hatred. I have no idea why, but I think whatever is inside that place is testing me." Anger appeared on her face as she imagined just what kind of words and insults, he must have heard but the anger was put on the backburner for now as her first priority was to make sure that he was alright at least mentally, she took a step closer to him to simply hold him in her arms.

"I don't know what you heard but everything that thing said is completely bullshit, you are a wonderful person that deserves to be happy no matter. Don't you dare to take its words to heart, you are not a monster, no matter what you or anyone else thinks. I know that; our classmates know that; your family knows it. You….." She didn't get any further before Rean put his arms around her this time, "You don't have to worry about me, it will take a lot more than some insults to destroy my resolve but regardless thank you."

Something in his voice made her arms tighten around him, "I will repeat it no matter how many times it will take to get through your thick skull that you deserve to be happy, that just because you have that power doesn't mean that you don't have the right to be happy……Don't bother saying anything regarding this, I already know that you don't believe me but that is why I will make sure that there will be a day that you see the simple truth that you have that right."

That made him swallow his next words and just enjoy her warmth for a few minutes until she asked something else, "Is that 'test' or whatever is going on, the reason why you get the feeling that you are being watched? Which by the way I am still mad about, that you have kept that information to yourself until now." He started to chuckle but stopped abruptly when she used one hand to twist the flesh on his waist to make her displeasure known, "In my defence, it was just a feeling nothing that could be prove so I didn't say anything else."

"Just be honest now, is there something else that you haven't told me?"

"The first time I entered the old building for the investigation the ogre reacted to the presence inside which, at the beginning, was the primary reason that I was so invested into researching that place. I thought that I had finally found a clue that would explain what I am or why I have this power inside me."

"First off, you are human and not a monster, get that in your head. Second, I can understand why you didn't tell me at the beginning given the fact that I still didn't know about your power at that time but why didn't you tell us after last month?"

"Honestly? I didn't think that it was that important anymore, while I still want to know what the connection between that place and the ogre is, it is not my primary concern anymore. Right now, I just want to know what is going in there." A soft hmm came as an answer from Alisa and nothing else, they didn't say anything more, just enjoyed the moment between them.

Unfortunately, everything must end, Rean decided that if he kept her in his arms like that any longer, he would be pushing his luck too much and that he couldn't be so selfish in the future anymore. He slowly lowered his arms, understanding what he wanted Alisa complied with his wish, though had she known what was going through his head she would have boxed his ears for thinking like that.

"At dinner we should inform the rest of our classmates and Sara about your suspicions, just be prepared because I am sure that she will also try to stop you from going back there along with the others. I am also of the same opinion, but I also know that you are too stubborn for your own good, just be prepared that from now on I and the others will keep watching you when are inside that place." He raised his hand like he wanted to cup her cheek like she had done but stopped himself from doing that, though he was sure that he had just imagined the disappointed look that had appeared in her eyes when he didn't follow through his action.

"I can live with that, in any case I won't stop going there aside from wanting to unravel the secret of that building, it is a good place for practical training. I know that you also are no longer satisfied with the monsters around Trista for target practice." The archer was still a bit saddened that he didn't follow through with his action but put it aside for now, "You are right, never thought that I, one day, would feel upset that monsters are far too easy to hit. I blame you for that, by the way."

Grinning at that, Rean opened the door for her, "Well then, Lady Alisa. Perhaps I can convince you to forgive me for that by offering you my umbrella so that you may arrive back at the dorm without the rain touching you." Alisa didn't understand why he was saying that but one look out of the windows showed her that it had begun to rain quite a bit, "If I take your umbrella how are you going back without getting wet? You know what? We can share that umbrella together besides I hope you didn't forget that I won't let out of my sight for the rest of the day, you still must follow Instructor Beatrix's orders to relax."

He had hoped that she had forgotten about that little detail but conceding defeat he obediently took out his umbrella and together with her stepped out of the main building just to see both Elliot and Fie running towards the Gardening Club, curious on what was going on they followed them just to see that they were trying build a rain shelter for the flowers that Fie had been caring for. Rean was going to call out to them to see if they need any help, but Alisa stopped him, curious he looked at her, "I think that they don't need our help for that, besides I think it is a good idea to leave these two alone for now."

Still not understanding why he couldn't help, he just accepted it after seeing the smirk on her face along with her murmuring something that sound like, "Well, well would you look at that? Oh Fie, payback is going to be so sweet." The two left the pair alone after seeing that their project of a shelter was quickly being built. On the way back to the dorm, they passed by the church to see that Rosie, a student of class V who also helped as a nun whenever she could, standing outside looking anxiously at the rain.

This time it was Alisa who asked her if there was anything that they could help with, as it turned out one of the children had fallen asleep after the music concert until now and since he had been in the front row and no one else had notice him sleeping there since the morning. Rosine had just noticed him a few minutes ago, fearing that his parents were besides them with worry, she would have taken him directly to them. However, with the sudden rain along with fact that the child was sleeping so peacefully that she would feel bad if she woke him up, she couldn't manage to hold both an umbrella and keep him from getting wet, in the end she didn't know what to do now.

A look between them was enough to convey what they should do; Rean took the boy in his arms carefully making sure not to wake him while Alisa would take the umbrella making sure that the kid wouldn't get wet. Rosine told them where the boy lived and thanked them for their help, along with asking them to come back so that she could offer them some coffee and cookies as a reward. It didn't take long to find the house where his worried parents were pacing up and down, after they explained what had happened, they left and returned to the church where Rosine was waiting for them with their reward.

The next thirty minutes were spent talking about their classes and training where Rosine admitted that she wasn't that good at the combat training, Rean and Alisa gave her some tips to help her out. Before they left Rosine changed from her nun attire to her school uniform. Without the clothes of a nun, they saw that she had quite a bit of curves underneath that, she thanked them again and left the church in the direction of the Commoners Dorm. Much to her displeasure Alisa saw Rean looking quite intensely at her retreating figure causing feelings of jealousy to flare up; reaching her hand out to his waist she pinched it hard.

Any other time she would have been amused on seeing him jump like that, but this time she just ignored him, "Alisa?! Is everything alright?" She continued ignoring him while entertaining the thought of just taking the umbrella and leaving him behind in the rain, "Seems like you were starring pretty intense at Rosie's retreating form. Did you enjoy what you saw?"

A chill ran down his spine at her question though he couldn't figure for his life what he had done wrong this time around, "Well, can you blame me? After what she said it is normal that I would find it interesting…." That apparently had been the wrong thing to say in this situation as the pressure coming from the archer suddenly got stronger, "Can I blame you? Wow, you must have really liked what she has. Good for you, Rean! Hmpfh."

"Liked???? Um, Alisa? I don't think that we are talking about the same thing here, I was interested in the fact that despite saying that she had problems with the combat training here, the way she walks shows a hint, that she has combat training different from the one taught here at the academy. What are you talking about?"

She thought that he was just making up excuses after being caught starring after Rosie, but the longer she looked at his clear eyes she discovered that she was the one with her mind in the gutter just now, causing her cheeks to become red as embarrassment flooded her entire body. Still not knowing what was going on, Rean noticed with the way she was avoiding his eyes, that she had been misunderstanding something about the situation just now.

Even though he was curious about what exactly she had misunderstood, he gave her a way out of this situation without having to explain, "I already told you that people who practice any martial arts or even just do combat training for a good while, without them even noticing it, that kind of training influences the way their bodies move outside of fighting."

She immediately caught on what he was offering her, Alisa didn't hesitate at using the lifeline he was throwing her, giving him a grateful look, "I do remember us talking about it, you even used Elliot and Emma as an example on what that looks like.……Wait, then why did she say that she has trouble with combat practice when she has that amount of training?"

"Hence my interest in her, especially since the way she moves is completely different from one that Elliot has, suggesting that she was trained even before coming to Thors in a different Combat Style then the ones taught here. Oh well, everyone is entitled to their secrets, how about we go back to the dorms now?" At that Alisa nodded at him before walking besides him under the umbrella, grateful that he didn't ask anything else, (Phew that could have been really embarrassing for me, good thing that is both dense enough not to understand that I was implying that he was looking at her body in that manner and kind enough to just forget about me acting like that. I really need to get better at controlling my emotions to avoid situations like this in the future or I should try to make my move on him?)

Just the thought of that alone was enough for Alisa's face to explaode in red, Rean swore that he could practically feel the heat coming from her but wisely stayed quiet, (Argh, come on. I thought I was already past this. Yes, I like him in that way but there is no need for me to react like this just from thinking about it. Geez, he must be thinking I am weirdo from getting like this out of nowhere, well done Alisa!)

In fact, Rean was thinking about her but not in the way she thought he was, (I guess after today I can no longer deny that I have feelings for her that go beyond the boundaries of friendship. What do I do now? Who am I trying to fool? Of course, I am not going to do anything about this, I will carry on like before just trying to be her friend, even if by some great miracle she liked me in that way, I can't act on it. She deserves someone far better than me, not someone whose entire future is uncertain or someone who is practically a demon. I just hope that whoever ends up with her, knows how lucky he is and perhaps I should make it clear that if he hurts her in any way, I will hunt him down and make him pay for it.)

In that manner both arrived at the dorm where Sharon was already waiting for them with towels and warm refreshments, while she prepared herself to go out to get some fresh ingredients for dinner. "I would be happy to run to the market for you. It is still coming down out there, so might as well go back out while I am still damp, right?"

"What part of resting don't you understand? Besides I also can go out, there is no need for you to do so…achoo!" Under both Rean and Sharon's eyes, the archer tried to downplay it, but they didn't let her, "How about I go shopping and you prepare some warm tea for her, so that she doesn't catch a cold, Sharon?"

"Thank you, Master Rean. Here is the list along with enough mira to cover the cost of the ingredients, as for you Lady Alisa. You should go take a hot shower while I brew some Chamomile tea for you, as your maid I would be remiss in my duties if I let you catch a cold."

"She is right; don't even try to argue against it. Besides it is just getting some groceries and not even many going by this list, I will take at most an hour to get this done. So don't worry about me and listen to Sharon unless you want to be ill for the practical exam and the upcoming field study?"

Both of them were making good points, leaving her no choice but follow their advice but not before adding her own, "Alright, you two. Rean, you have exactly sixty minutes to get this done and be back or I will go after you myself and if I find you doing anything strenuous, you will be punished, are we clear?" The swordsman saluted her in response to her threat, making her roll her eyes at him before going upstairs to take a hot shower.

Taking his umbrella, he stepped outside into the rain and walked towards Brandon's General Goods, inside he started searching for ingredients, with the rain there weren't many costumers inside, so he was even faster than he had anticipated. Just forty minutes later he was already out of the store holding two bags. "Looks like the rain must have stopped while I was inside. It has gotten pretty dark, too. I had better get back to the dorm; Sharon is waiting for these to start dinner."

Rean didn't make it two steps forward before a voice called out to him, "Oh, hello there." Following the sound, he saw an older woman approaching him wearing a hat and glasses that masked most of her face, though for some reason he got a familiar feeling from her making him stop. "You wouldn't happen to be one of the Class VII students from Thors, would you? Out for a little late-night shopping, are we?"

"You could say that, but how did you know I am from Class VII?"

"Heehee. Just a feeling, your class is one of the favourite topics at our radio station, actually. There are plenty of people out there who want to know more about Thors' dashing guys and gals in red."

"Oh, you work at the radio station?...Hold on… you voice sounds kind of familiar…." His remark caused the woman in front of him to grin, "Oh, maybe you know me from the radio? Perhaps this will jog your memory…Good evening, everyone. This summer is turning into a real scorcher, isn't it? To beat the heat, we are going to be broadcasting tonight from the park here in Trista."

That tone and voice caused him to remember where he knew her from, "…Wait….you are Misty?! From Abend Time?!" The grin got even wider at that, "Bingo! You must be quite the avid listener, recognising my voice like that. Glad to know that I have got such a faithful fan out there."

"(Wow, I wouldn't have thought I would run into Misty like this.) I always make sure to catch Abend Time; it helps me relax when I am studying."

"Thanks, but it sure is serendipitous, you know? Having a chance encounter like this just after the rain eased up? Ooooh, maybe, I should mention this on tonight's show."

"I am not sure that I really constitute as a noteworthy topic for a radio broadcast. (It's kind of weird…. I only know her from Abend Time, but she seems just as friendly face to face…..Hmmm? Wait, could she be?)"

"Is something the matter? You are staring at me so intently, that I feel a little bit embarrassed."

"Uhm…Well, forgive for that but this isn't the first we have met, right? We have met before just two weeks ago in the capital didn't we, Miss Vita Clotilde?" That seemed to catch off guard for a short moment before she burst out laughing, "Wow, I can't believe it. I never thought that anyone would catch on."

"Wow, the Azure Diva herself is moonlighting as a Radio host here in Trista. Who would have thought? I honestly wasn't one hundred percent sure that you were the same person but if you don't mind me asking, how did a star like yourself end up working at Radio Trista?"

"I do this on the side just for fun; you have to find some way to spice your life up a bit. The best part is that the people at the opera in Heimdallr have no idea I come here to do my show every week and it is the same for the people at the radio station. So, if possible, can you keep this to yourself, please?"

"Of course, I wouldn't dream of telling this to other people. Besides, I am sure that no one would believe me anyway, since until now no one else has figured it out." She gave him a smile before she took her glasses away and stepped closer to him invading his personal space, Rean didn't react to her sudden movement immediately, but he did tense up when she approached his ear, "You know, you seem even more interesting than I thought you would be, perhaps you will be able to change what it is to come….or not, who knows."

She took a step back while giggling at the confused look on his face, "Anyway, I have to get over to the studio now and don't forget to tune in tonight's Abend Time. See you around Rean and give my regards to those two, please." Before he could say anything she left him and walked towards the Radio Station, (She smells like lavender, the fragrance really suits her but what did she mean by that cryptic statement or which two is she talking about, perhaps Elliot and Machias?...No if that was the case she wouldn't' have asked me to keep her working two jobs a secret. Hmm, perhaps I can ask her the next time we met. Oh shot, I was so engrossed in the conversation with her that I forgot the time, I better hurry.)

Luckily for him he manged to arrive back at the dorm just in time, but it wasn't Alisa who was there to greet him but Emma, "Cutting it close aren't you, Rean? Just thirty more seconds and I would have to inform Alisa about it." He ignored the grin she was giving instead he rolled his eyes at her, "Did she really have to ask you to keep an eye on me? It isn't like I could into trouble just by going into Brandon's."

"Come now, she is just worried about you and can blame her after what happened today? Even I and the others are concerned about you. Do you want me to take one of those bags? Wait……Do I smell…..lavender on you? This is perfume, isn't it? How did it get onto you?" Before he could refuse her offer Emma approached him and started sniffing the air around him, her questions made him recall how he could have gotten that smell, "I guess, I must have soaked up that scent when she got that close to me, that is the only reason I could think of."

His explanation caused her to narrow her eyes at him, "Um, Rean? I can only hope that the reason why you were nearly late wasn't because you were fooling around with some other girls."

"Whoa, whoa, hold on. You have got the wrong idea, Emma! I just happened to bump into someone I know while was out, that is all! Nothing like what you are implying happened, geez."

"Hmmm, really? Because you are strangely defensive for a man who has nothing to hide, perhaps I should talk with Alisa about this."

"Whoa, easy there! I just ran into someone I know after I left the store, nothing more happened! You know you were supposed to rub off on Fie and not the other way around! I swear even Laura is starting to tease me more recently." Emma stern look disappeared replaced by a smirk before she startet to giggle, "Sorry, sorry! I just couldn't resist, perhaps you are right that Fie is rubbing off on me but that isn't a bad thing, is it?"

"Well, it is when I or Alisa are the only targets. Just try not to go overboard, like you did today. I don't know what you girls did but Alisa wouldn't look me in the eye when we started the investigation this afternoon and no, I don't need to know why. Something tells me I am better off not knowing."

"Oh, you are no fun, Rean." He ignored her pouting and started to make his way towards the kitchen where Sharon was already waiting for him, if he had turned around he would have seen her thoughtful look when she compared the lavender smell he had on him to one her sister always used, (The smell is nearly identical…..could it be…..no it's impossible! What would the chance be that Rean ran into Vita here in Trista of all the places?)

Later at dinner Rean explained to his classmates including their two new additions what really happened to him without going too much into the detail. Like Alisa had predicted Sara had been furious at him for withholding that information from her at first, it took Rean quite a bit of time to convince her to let him continue going into the old schoolhouse. In the end she relented but made it clear that he wasn't supposed to go there alone under no circumstances and promised him dire punishments if he broke her rules. Along with that threat the rest of the class added their own just to make sure that he wouldn't even think about trying it, their concern would have been touching if their threats weren't so terrific.

The next two days passed by in a flash and soon the day for their practical exam arrived, like always it was conducted on the Academy Field though to their surprise this exam wasn't against the combat shell but against each other. This time Instructor Sara had divided them up in three groups, the first was composed of the girls minus Millium, the second of the boys minus Rean and Crow and the final one was made of the remaining students, "All right, the first fight will be Team Rean against the Team Boys. Everyone, get in position and wait for my signal."

Both teams assumed their places in the middle of the field, "So we are up against the guys first, meaning that they have every distance covered and someone to counter us. Anyone got an idea how to do this?"

"I know, we just have to beat them to win!"

"Haha, that is the spirit, twerp! But don't let your guard down, Rean we will leave the strategy to you."

"Sigh, I don't know why I was expecting anything else. Just stay aware of the distance between us and them, and don't miss any openings they leave us! Crow you are on support duty at the back, keep Machias and Elliot from casting their Arts while I and Millium take care of Jusis and Gaius. Millium create a barrier around Airgetlam and send him forward to separate those two, you take care of Jusis, and I will take on Gaius." The guys were also finished with their strategy meeting and waiting for the start signal, "Seems like you are all ready, then…….start!"

The front fighters of both teams sprinted towards their adversary, Millium followed Rean's suggestion managing to create the desired distance between their opponents, though Jusis used that opening to use his Craft Rune Blade to destroy Lammy's barrier. Millium didn't waste any time and started to attack the blonde noble using her puppet. Seeing this and the fact that Crows bullets managed to stop Orbal Arts from being cast, Rean put his focus on Gaius who was ready to face him.

Both friends exchanged a brief smile with each other before making their moves, Gaius trusted his spear at Rean who evaded it by twisting his upper body to the left, having already expected that dodge from him, Gaius simply swung his outstretched weapon to the side nearly hitting his target. However, Rean had also anticipated his move, so he bent further letting the spear pass him by a hairsbreadth. Using that opening he applied flames to his tachi while straightening himself to slash down nearly hitting his opponents who quickly jumped back and used his spear as a shield for the flames. Using the longer reach of weapon, he attacked from afar trying to land a hit; each attack was either evaded or blocked by his tachi though Rean didn't see any opening to approach his adversary.

Letting out a breath the swordsman closed his eyes for a short moment before opening them again to unleash his next attack, a side swing with his sword that Gaius was going to block but to his surprise Rean missed his target. Getting ready to use that blunder to counterattack the lancer switched out of his defence form, Gaius eyes widened as he saw why the swordsman had missed, he had it done intentionally to use the force from that missed swing to spin his whole body around while sheathing his tachi.

Utilising that momentum, he jumped forward catching Gaius off guard with the fourth Form Autumn Leaf Cutter, he managed to land several small cuts on his uniform signalising that he was out of the fight at the same time Jusis was thrown to the ground by Lammy after he didn't manage to scratch the silver puppet with his swords or arts.

Crow upon seeing that his teammates won pulled out his next move 'Rapid Volley' to unbalance Machias and Elliot giving his team the victory, "That is enough! The match goes to Rean's team, not bad you three! Seems like all that fighting last Sunday laid down a good foundation for your teamwork." Listening to their Instructor both teams stopped, clapping Gaius on his shoulder Rean praised him, "Well done, Gaius! You nearly had me there after the first move, I thought I had already seen through your next move, but you were faster than I had thought."

"Thanks, Rean but in the end, I wasn't fast enough though I didn't expect to fall for your feint on that move, I guess I was too eager to defeat you that I didn't think things through."

"Don't worry Gaius, it happens to the best of us. However, you are far more fluid in your moves than before, I will have to increase my training if I want to keep with you, my friend." Rolling his eyes at statement, the lance glared playfully at him, "If you increase your training even more than when will you sleep?" Rean answer to that was interrupted by Jusis shouting, "Hey, get it off me! The fight is over."

"Only after you admit how strong Lammy and me are, Jusis." The glare he gave the young girl was answer enough but before she could insist any further, Sara called out to her, "Alright, Millium that is enough! You can taunt Jusis later for now we have the next fight coming up, Team Girls against Team Rean!"

"Wait, we don't even get a break before fighting again?! You are slave driver, Sara!" Ignoring Crow's outburst, she called the girls to the field, not wasting any time they took the boys places and were ready to go. "Sigh, oh well. Here comes the next fight and this will be far harder than the last one. Be it the front line or the back line, they are more than capable enough to blast us away. My guess is that Laura and Fie will attack full power with Alisa and Emma covering them. Our best bet is to hold the line and try to find an opening to break through, Crow like before try to stop the rear from acting but be careful of Alisa's arrows she has enough skill to shoot your bullets down if you aren't fast enough."

"Wait, what?! Since when is she that good!?"

"I may have given her some tips on how to do that, though if you are fast and unpredictable enough you may have a chance, as for Emma that will be up to you Millium, try to go high enough in the air to pass Laura and Fie to take her out quickly and then come join me."

"Aye, aye Sir!" The small girl saluted him before assuming her fighting stance, "I swear Rean, you should stop making Alisa even scarier than she already is. The girls in Class VII are already scary enough, they would just straight take you out before they would take a guy out for a night on the town, if you know what I mean."

Grimacing at that Rean scowled at the older guy, "Perhaps they wouldn't do that if you just stopped trying to involve them in one of your money-making scams. Let's just focus on getting out of this in one piece, ok?" Both team waited for signal from their teacher, "And…….start!" Like he had anticipated Laura and Fie came straight at them while Alisa and Emma were preparing their Orbal Arts either for support or attacking, deciding to meet the two girls head on while hoping to give his teammates enough time to do their part, Rean didn't hesitated to jump between them, unlike the month before they were using a Combat Link to coordinate their attacks to try and take him out quickly.

Rean knew that it was just a matter of time for them to defeat him, so he used offense as his defence not bothering with conserving his stamina; he unleashed his full speed trying to keep up with their attacks. Using his tachi he diverted Laura great sword to attack Fie, while he barely managed to evade the bullets from her sword guns, however Laura proved her skill by quickly adapting her blade to miss her partner and use that momentum to apply her craft 'Brilliant Spin' to stop Rean from moving around.

Acting on instinct, he countered her move by using the First Form Helix to cancel out her vortex with his own, both fighters stumbled back from that clash, seeing her chance Fie used Scud Ripper to attack the swordsman. Not having any other option, he let go of his sword and used the Eight Form to block the silver haired girl from completing her attack by stopping her downward swings with his arm. What no one had expected was that Rean didn't stop her completely but used her momentum to pull her forward to let her fly over him while he himself slid under her to kick her in the stomach sending her flying towards Laura who caught her out of reflex in one arm.

Next, he tried to pick up his tachi, but an arrow flew past him hitting it further away from his hand, Alisa follow up attack managed to buy enough time for both front fighters to get back in their stances while Rean avoided getting hit to pick his weapon up. Crow wasn't willing to miss the short window where Alisa wasn't hitting his bullets out of the air, deciding to go all in he unleashed his S-Craft at both Alisa and Emma, who surprisingly was able to use her Orbal Staff to summon dark blue flames to pin down Lammy in one place.

Having already seen Crows attack back in the old schoolhouse Alisa knew that she had to destroy the bullets before Crow could activate the ignition inside them, not wasting any she was going to cast the Space Art Dark Matter to at least deviate them from attacking but in her haste, she didn't notice Rean approaching her and cancelling her Art with his Autumn Leaf Cutter and taking her out of the fight. With no one to stop him Crow's S-Crafts managed to land on Emma also eliminating her from the fight and freeing Lammy at the same time, who moved quickly to defend Rean from Laura and Fie's attacks. With two members eliminated they didn't have much of a chance remaining, still they made Rean and co. work for their victory.

"That is enough, aaaaand it looks like a victory for the stalwart Team Rean. Not bad, not bad at all you three." With Sara's decision Team Rean won their second victory in this practical exam, finally able to get a break the three sank down on their knees painting for air. "Sigh, I can't believe we lost. I shouldn't have taken my eye off Rean, if hadn't I am sure that I would have been able to dodge his attack."

"No need to beat yourself up, Alisa. We were just a step too slow, if you had been able to cast that Orbal Art we would have won. While Emma continued to hold Airgetlam down, I and Fie would have taken Rean and Crow out. Alas, I wasn't fast enough to stop him from reaching you." Listening to Laura's analyse Alisa felt it was really too bad that victory had slipped out of their hands, while Fie and Emma tried to also comfort her. Sara gave them a break before they faced Team Boys, she supressed her laughter at seeing Rean glare at Sara who had denied his team a break before throwing them into the next fight.

After the fight was over with Alisa's team winning, Sara was going to give out the papers containing their group allocations and their destination, but an unexpected guest entered the field, "I see your practical exams are as unconventional as ever." Instructor Neithardt was approaching them, not willing to back down Sara fired back, "Oh? I was under the impression that having back-to-back battles with uneven odds was par for the course in actual warfare and don't you think learning to fight effectively against cunning opponents with team tactic is important for any solider?"

Before this could evolve into one of their usual fights, Rean intervened, "Is there a reason why you are here, Instructor Neithardt?" Both adults looked at him knowing what he was doing but decided that now wasn't time for their usual bickering so with a heavy sigh, Sara explained what was going on, "The reason why he is here is because like last month's field study in the capital, your upcoming one is also a bit…..unusual." At the ominous explanation the students grimaced, already preparing for the worst while finally getting their papers revealing where they were going.

'Field Study: August

Group A Location: Legram

Group A Members: Rean, Laura, Emma, Jusis, Gaius, Millium

Group B Location: Jurai Special Economic Zone

Group B Members: Alisa, Fie, Machias, Elliot, Crow.

After two days both groups must reassemble at the designated location.'

"Well, seems like I will make a trip back home during this field study. This time, I will be the one to guide you all around, fair warning though. As a castle town dating back to the Middle Ages, it has more than its fair share of local legends and tall tales, along with the occasional fog." Laura explained what her group could expect of her hometown, meanwhile Elliot was asking about their destination, "Anyone has an idea were this Special Economic Zone is?" Much to their surprise, it was Crow who answered his question, "I am pretty sure it is a city up on the far northwest coast of the Empire. They used to be independent, but the Imperial Government runs the show there now."

"I think Gramps annexed it about eight years ago." Millium remark made everyone sweat drop as they realised who she meant by gramps, shaking his head at the young girl Rean refocused on the last line on the paper, "Instructors, could you please explain where this so-called designated location is?" That drew the others attention to it momentarily forgetting about Millium calling one of the most powerful man in the Empire 'Gramps'.

"I could, but I wouldn't want Instructor Neithardt to feel left out, so I will let him do the honours. The floor is yours, Major."

"…As you wish. After completing your assigned tasks in your respective areas, you will be boarding a train bound for the rendezvous point. That point is a notable military installation in the southeast of the Empire, Garrelia Fortress. I will also be joining you all there as your military liaison for the duration of your visit, naturally you all will be given a series of assignments specific to that location for you to complete." The revelation that their class would soon visit one of the strongest fortresses in the Empire left some members feeling a bit of unease, one of them was Alisa.

(Garrelia Fortress that is where the Railway Canons are. Perhaps this is fate, to see what kind of monstrosity my family has created, I……) The archer was so lost in her thoughts that she didn't notice Rean approaching her and softly touching her shoulder, startling her out of thoughts she turned to look at him. The unease that she had been feeling started to disappear under his worried eyes instead a warm feeling spread inside her, shaking her head at him to say that she was fine; he gave her a look that clearly told her that they would talk about this later which earned him a snort and her rolling her eyes at him.

"Well, I am looking forward to another instalment of your action-packed field study reports but just so you know, I am planning on joining you at Garrelia Fortress too. After all, I am not going to let the big, bad army man push my adorable little students around." Sara's promise that she would also join them along with her dig at her colleague made the tension disappear in the students though Instructor Neithardt didn't let her get away with it, "I have no intention of asking anything unreasonable of them. Nothing that deviates from their curriculum unlike a certain other instructor whose name we shan't mention."

They could practically see the spark between the two adults as they glared at each other, leading Rean to dread at the future, (Oh well, Garrelia Fortress has survived a lot, so it should be able to also survive these two without Instructor Beatrix to rein them in……I hope.)

After the class was done and the two instructors went their separate ways, some members of Class VII also returned to the dorm to start preparing for their upcoming field study while others went to the library to see what they could dig up regarding the location they were going to. Rean however was trying to find a certain blonde to ask if she was alright, Alisa was found at the target range, practicing her archery. Though practice wasn't going great as he looked at her shot groupings, which also showed on the frown on her face. He made sure to wait until she had only one more arrow left before he quietly approached her, "Everything alright, Alisa?"

It had been a while since he had sneaked up on her but the sight of her jumping up didn't fail to bring a smile to his face, he thought about hiding it but seeing that she was distraught by something he thought that focusing on him was a good way to distract her, of course he made sure to keep a safe distance from Alisa in case he went too far. "Goddammit, Rean!! How many times have I told you to stop sneaking up on me?!"

"Hey, you once mention if I could give you some tips on how stopping Sharon from sneaking up on you. Want to start now?" She narrowed her eyes at his obvious attempt for distracting her, "You do know that you are being really obvious on what you are trying to do, right? You don't need to, I am fine." Snorting at he slowly approached her until they were face to face, "If it was me that said that, would you believe me?"

"…..No…..but…." He stopped her before she said anything else, "We have been through this conversation so many in the past few months, Alisa. That we should both know that either of us is there for the other and that we won't stop until they feel better or am I wrong?"

"Nope, you are not. However, I prefer the ones where I try to make you feel better instead of the reverse, because most of my problems seem irrelevant compared to yours." She had to begrudgingly admit that he had a point but that didn't mean that she was ready to talk about what was bothering her, "And I feel the opposite about your problems, mine aren't really that much……I am just stating my opinion nothing more." The glare she sent his way made him change tracks quickly, "Let's just say that we agree to disagree on that and move on, so are you going to tell me what is bothering you?"

The silence that followed was enough of an answer to his question, so he went ahead with what was on his head, "I will assume that this has to with the Railways guns?" The way she stopped moving just confirmed his guess, "Can you explain to me why you think that those guns are your fault?" He patiently waited for her to open up to him, she tried several times to nock her arrow but stopped at the last moment, for a while there was no sound until he heard a sigh from her, "It was my family that built those things that threatens Crossbell, half a million lives can be taken in a matter of hours and whose fault is it if that happens?"

"Definitely not yours, that is for sure! Look, I am not trying to defend your mother for accepting to build them but, in a sense, it also wouldn't be her fault either." She twirled around to star at him with her mouth open, "The Reinford Company has built a lot of thanks, orbal guns and so on over the years, who decides when and where they are used? Not your mother, not your grandfather and not you Alisa, but the ones who ordered them. The weapons themselves are not blame but their wielders who use them are, just because Reinford built something doesn't mean that they are also responsible for them. You can also argue that it would have been better if they hadn't been built, but it still doesn't mean that you are to blame for them or their possible actions."

He could see that she was thinking about his words but a part of her still wasn't ready to accept them, "How about you see this as an opportunity to face the Railways guns? I can't decide how you should feel about them, what I can do is offer you my advice and make sure that you don't overthink too much like you tend to do." He gave her a grin at the offended look she was wearing right now, "I am the one who overthinks things too much?! That is rich coming from you, Mister Everything is my fault!"

That made him just grin wider, a fact that wasn't lost on her, "Urgh, I swear you are……Argh, forget it! How do always know what to say to make me feel better about my problems but I can't do the same for you. That is so unfair!"

"Hey, now that isn't true, you have helped me a lot." The scoff that he got in return made it clear that she didn't believe him, "I am serious, just the fact that you didn't run away from me screaming means a lot to me."

"That right there is what I mean! You think just because I behaved like a normal person should, that I am doing you a favour. Rean, when are you going to get it in your head, your power doesn't make you a monster! People shouldn't curse you or run away from you just because of that, me and the others staying by your side despite of it is the normal reaction and not the opposite! And to make matters worse, you still don't believe me when I say that you aren't a demon, don't try to deny it I know you well enough to know what you think."

He knew how this conversation was going to end, so he tried to change course, "What do you think about your group and field study location?" She blinked for a moment before groaning out loud, "Seriously? Just like that, you try to avoid what we are talking about? If you think that it will stop me then you have another thing coming for you, Schwarzer!"

"Perhaps but we both know how this conversation usually ends we had them often enough to know that and both of us are too stubborn to change our minds on the matter. As for the railway guns, deep down you are starting to think that I may be right but still aren't ready to accept that your mother or you aren't completely guilt free. How about instead we focus on the upcoming field studies?"

"Sigh, you are still doing it. You do know that I and the others won't stop until you finally get it, right?"

"You all are far too stubborn for your own good."

"The pot shouldn't call the kettle black, Rean. Anyway, we are going to continue this after the field study, for now I think that I am going to clean up here and go help Machias with researching Jurai at the Library. What about you and before you ask, no I don't your help cleaning this up here?"

"In that case, I think I am going back to the dorm to catch up on some studying and some training." After leaving he gave her one more look to make that she was feeling better at which she rolled her eyes at him and shooed him away, feeling a bit lighter than before. The next two days flew by fast, heralding the day where Class VII would depart on their trip, judging by the shouting coming from upstairs more precisely Jusis room, Rean was glad that he was an early bird as he exchanged looks with the other members of Group A.

"Wow, seems like Millium is really looking forward to this. Which isn't bad thing she may hold her own in class, but it is in times like these that she acts like any other kid her age. I am also looking forward to finally getting the chance to visit Laura's hometown after she told me so much about it."

"Thank you, Gaius. I think that you all will enjoy its scenic beauty, I just hope that we will have enough time after we are done with our tasks that I can show you all around. Though I wish Group B could have come with us to see it, perhaps there will be another opportunity in the future for that."

They continued talking about Legram until an energetic voice called to them, "Sorry, to keep you for waiting!" Just to see Millium dragging a tried Jusis behind her, "Yikes, are you alright Jusis?" The answer was a half-hearted glare from the noble at Rean for asking that question, "…..Can someone do something about this child? She is out of control…."

"Looks like everybody is here! Let's go, go, goooooo!" Not waiting for anyone else to say something Millium continued dragging Jusis out of the dorm much to the amusement of the other four, not wanting to dampen her spirits they followed her to the station, where they took a look at the map to see which route they had to take to reach Legram. Meanwhile Group B also arrived at the station, both groups exchanged some small talk to pass the time until their trains arrived while making sure that a certain swordsman knew what would happen to him if went overboard again. Group B train arrived first and after saying goodbye another person entered the station, making a beeline towards the surprised students who recognised the man, "Huh, what are you doing here, Lechter? You miss me already?"

The man also called Scarecrow grinned at Millium, "Sure did! I am going to be back in Crossbell starting the day after tomorrow. Might never have the chance to see you again in this lifetime, so I figured I would drop by and say hello."

"Pssssh, whatever! You are so silly, there is no way you or Gramps would die that easily. The Grim Reaper would run the other way if he saw you two."

"That old goat might scare off the Reaper, but I am pretty weak, you know!" The other members of Group A watched as the two exchanged barbs with one another, leaving Gaius to explain to Laura who the redheaded man was, Rean was going to add his two mira to it but he sensed something pass by them rather quick, whipping his head around he only caught sight of something black at the corner of his eyes. (What was that?...Hmm, there was something familiar about it but it was gone too fast for me to pinpoint it.)

His thoughts were interrupted as Lechter was finished talking with Millium and addressed them, "Hello there, members of Class VII I hope you are all well. I am sure that this little drop of sunshine has got 'suspicious' written all over her, but I hope you are getting along. Don't hesitate to give her a good spanking if she causes too much trouble, though." Before anyone else could react to that, Millium cut in, "I am not going to give them any trouble! Unlike you, I am little angel!" That statement managed to get Jusis to choke on air while the others tried to hide their looks of disbelief.

"What kind of little angel would casually whip out something like Airgetlam in public? Do you know how much overtime and work we put in just covering up for you? Believe me it isn't cheap!" As if that was the first time she heard about that Millium looked at him with wide eyes, "Huh…..you do?" At that moment came the message that their train that would take them to their destination was arriving, prompting them to say their goodbyes to Lechter and to hurry to their platform as not to miss the train not knowing that this field study would turn out to be the one with the most danger until now.