Hello there, here is the next chapter.
To Kaze, I tried everything that I could to not make this chapter with huge paragraphs and in my Word Document I succeeded on it but every time I try to import it here it changes to the format you see now, if you or anyone else know how to change that on FFN then i am open to solutions.
Regarding your question of Frozen Heart, it is something Rean picked up on his travels, it doesn't belong to the Eight Leaves. I also noticed that I use the scolding pattern to often and going forward I will try to lessen it but there will still be some form of scoldings and this story is focused on Rean/Alisa, perhaps there will be other pairings in future (still unsure on that) but there will be no ship teases between Rean and the other girls perhaps some bonding that is focused purely on friendship, (though there will be stories about him meeting some girls in the East ;) )
May the 31 of the Septian Year 1204
Feeling the light from the rising sun falling through the gaps of the curtains covering his window woke Rean up from his sleep. Shaking his head to clear the cobwebs from inside his head, he slowly remembered what had transpired yesterday, both Groups A and B had returned from their field study, and he had observed how tried Alisa seemed to be so compared to the other members of her group. He and the others had then suggested that they would exchange their field reports today. (From what Laura and the others told me afterwards, they hadn't noticed anything out of the ordinary during their stay in Saint-Ark. It was only after they had reached the train to return to Trista, that they noticed that something was worrying her but even when they asked Alisa what was wrong, she insisted that everything was fine.)
Standing up from his bed, Rean changed into his training outfit while thinking about the blond archer, (I guess this is karma from when I was doing the same thing back at home, not wanting to worry my family just because of my problems. Honestly, I don't know what to do here, should I try to talk with her about it or should I stay out of it? I guess the only thing that I can do is….. Hmm?)
Descending the stairs to make his way into the kitchen to prepare his breakfast, he suddenly sensed that someone was moving on the second floor and judging from the location he could also sense that it came from Alisa's room, meaning that she was awake, (What is she already doing up? She can't be thinking about going to train, right?) Not sure what the blonde girl was planning to do this early, he started making breakfast for her and himself, some eggs with rice for him and some toast with apricot jam for her with some green tea for them both.
The moment Rean set down the cups filled with tea, Alisa stepped inside the kitchen as if she had timed the exact moment and greeted the swordsman, "Morning, Rean." Taking a moment, he looked at her to find that while she still seemed somewhat tired it wasn't to the same extend as yesterday though he could still see some worries hidden in her eyes before he greeted her back, "Good morning, Alisa. Slept well?"
Taking a knife, she started spreading the jam on her toast while answering, "It was alright. So how was Bareahard? I heard that you got into trouble with the two Factions, so did you once again get surrounded by the provincial army?" The last part had been spoken in a teasing manner but that quickly disappeared when Alisa saw him averting his eyes, "You can't be serious? Again?! How did that happen?!"
Rean took a long sip of his tea to get his thoughts in order, since he completely forgot the trouble that he would be in when the time came to exchange reports with the others, when he saw her state yesterday, "Well, it is a bit complicated on how that happened but let's leave that for later when the full class is together this evening okay?" Seeing that she wasn't convinced and getting ready to ask for answers, he switched the conversation to her, "How about you tell me what you are doing up so earlier we still have more than three hours until we have to be in class."
Giving him a look that made it clear that she knew what he was doing, she conceded that she would wait for this evening to get her answers, "I swear, I can't even let you out of my sight for two days without you getting into trouble. Fine, I will wait until this evening to get a full account on what happened and Rean?" At that she pointed her knife that had been using on the jam at him, "You better be honest about everything that you did, because if you try to hide something from me….." Rean could feel how sweat was starting to run down his back under the glare he was receiving, "(Yikes, doesn't matter how often I see that glare, it still makes me want to run and hide or beg for mercy.) Don't worry, I will tell you exactly what happened; besides even if I wanted to omit certain things the others would expose me immediately. You still haven't answered my question, on what you are doing awake at this hour?"
Thinking that he was right, Alisa gave him an answer, "I don't have any lacrosse practice this morning, and so like always I will join you in your morning training." Crossing his arms, it was now his turn to put the pressure on her, "And why exactly did you think that was a good idea? You were exhausted yesterday; you should still be in bed recovering and not training." Putting his hand up, he stopped whatever she was going to say, "Don't deny it, Alisa. Everyone could see that you were more tried than the others, so how about you go back to bed and rest some more?"
Putting the knife down on the table the blonde archer looked straight at him, "I could say the same about you, Mister. You also came back tired and yet here you are up at the crack of dawn to go train, so explain this to me, why you can go, and I can't? And don't even try to tell me that you are used to it, that excuse is getting old."
Seeing where the conversation was going Rean decided to be honest with her, "Because I am worried about you, Alisa." Not having expected that response she didn't know how to react for a moment, and he used that opening to go on, "The others told me that while you were as tried as them at the beginning when you left Saint-Ark, during the train ride they could see that you were clearly worried about something which exhausted you more the longer you were thinking about it. I won't ask you what is wrong, but I will tell you that if you ever want to talk it doesn't matter when or where or even if all you need is someone that you can complain to, I will always be there for you and in case that you aren't comfortable talking with me, I am sure that either Laura or Emma will be more than happy to listen to you. I just want you to know that I and the others are here for you."
Still speechless Alisa didn't know what she could possible say to that, (Here he goes again, spouting lines like that without caring how they sound or how they affect the people listening to him, I swear one of this days…..) Gripping her tea Alisa drank it to hide the shy smile that was threating to appear on her face as her cheeks quickly turned red, after this the two just ate their breakfast in silence. When they were done eating and Alisa has washed the dishes, both stood up and walked outside the dormitory.
Rean could see that the girl was struggling with some kind of decision though he didn't know which way it would go, so he waited for her to speak first. It didn't take long before a look of determination appeared on her face, "Alright, Rean you said that you will listen to everything I say. Then we will just go for a run this morning and after we are done, I will tell you what exactly happened yesterday." A bit surprised that she had apparently decided to tell him what her worry was, Rean could only nod with his head before beginning to run their usual route.
Half an hour later both teenagers reached their normal training spot where after some light stretches, they would usually look for monsters to train with or do some their individual practices, today though they remained still without saying anything, Rean waited patiently for Alisa to talk since they both started at Thor's, he got to know her well enough to know that it wasn't easy for her to share her worries with other people, why that was he had no idea. To not pressure her he just sat down on the ground while leaning against a tree simply enjoying the morning air, noticing what he was doing Alisa rolled her eyes at him which he just responded with a shrug of his shoulders and a smile while patting the ground beside him as an invitation for her to sit.
(Alright, enough time wasted you said that you would tell him, so just do it.) Following that decision, she also sat down close to him before speaking, "The person in charge of our field tasks in Saint-Ark was Marquis Hyarms, the head of one of the four great houses and Patrick's father. I honestly thought he would be an older version of his son, but he actually was kind of nice, not arrogant or snappish like his son but how someone of his status should act and behave, a shame that Machias wasn't there to meet perhaps he would finally change his opinion that all nobles are evil. Anyway, besides the trouble that we got in with the two factions the rest of the requests while challenging were doable with all of us working together to solve them. Yesterday when we went to report our last task before leaving to the Marquis there was another noble with him, Earl Xavier Noir who has a lot of connections with several important people in the Empire and outside of it, compromised of both nobles and commoners and well he knows me."
"He knows you? Why is that bad? Oh…." It took Rean a moment before he understood her meaning, "He knows the family name of the mysterious Miss R? Call both the Imperial and Provincial army that man is a threat to the national security of the empire, he must be stopped at all costs before he can divulge the biggest secret in Erebonia." Trying to lighten the mood for a bit he joked around and while that didn't achieve the full effect that he had wanted, it managed to make Alisa smile for a bit before she punched his shoulder, "Haha, very funny Rean. He recognised me but didn't say anything about my family name so I can just assume that the Marquis informed him that I was just Alisa R. to my classmates, again I don't know how a man that considerate can have a son like Patrick. We gave our report and got our reward but when we were about to leave, he told us that he his son was also a first year at Thor's and was in Class I. He would be delighted if we, the members of Class VII, could become acquainted with him; I don't think that the others noticed it, but he was looking at me when he said that. So, I think that I can expect that his son will come to our class to befriend us or rather try to befriend me."
"Again, that is bad why? Because last time I checked it takes two people to become friends and not just one. If you don't want anything to do with that person, then you don't have to." Not understanding where the problem was, Rean tried to assure her that she didn't have to do anything that she didn't want to, hearing him say that cleared some of the doubts that she was having, since yesterday she was so stuck inside her head that she had completely forgotten what she could do to prevent the worst-case scenario, "You are right, Rean. It takes two people to become friends and to be honest that wasn't my main worry. It was that he would reveal my family name to our class and….."
Seeing her struggle to continuing speaking Rean remained silent give her time to gather her thoughts, "And that it would change how you and the others see me." Hearing that Rean had to hold himself back from patting her head and just reminded her what he had once said to her, "Really, Alisa? We already had this conversation more than once actually; you are just Alisa to me and the others. Archer extraordinaire, very smart especially concerning Orbal studies and Engineering and very scary when you are mad or lecturing me but in all a pretty good friend and comrade that I can entrust with my life if necessary."
Rean had to duck his head to evade the palm strike form the blonde girl sitting next him, "Don't you have a filter inside your brain to stop you from being this cheesy, who tells someone that to their face?!" The red had returned to her cheeks with a vengeance, she tried to hide it from him while trying to hit him, seeing that she couldn't land a single hit she just turned away from him, "Besides if you don't want me angry at you then how about you stop acting reckless, that would go a long way towards stopping me from lecturing you." Knowing where this conversation was going Rean remained just quiet since he didn't want to once again having the discussion where he insisted that hadn't been acting reckless at all for the last months that would just end with him getting lectured again.
No one spoke for some time the two were just enjoying the silence and each other company, until the archer spoke, "You know, I resolved myself to come clean with you and the others about me when we returned from this field study but meeting Earl Noir and finding out that his son was also here at the academy and probably got a message from his father to befriend me threw a wrench in my plan so to speak. Ughh, I haven't even met the guy yet, but I already am thinking bad things about him, perhaps he is a nice person who could turn out to be a good friend given the opportunity. I should try to meet him before and ask him not to use my family name before I get the chance to tell you all myself, after that I don't mind if the whole school knows."
"Don't worry Alisa, I am sure that everything will turn out fine." Standing up, Rean stretched his arms to the sky before offering Alisa his hand to pull her up taking it, she did the same stretching before facing him, "You are right, I shouldn't throw in the towel before trying to solve the problem. I can't believe that I got so stuck inside my head that I couldn't see this simple solution." Taping his finger against his own head, the swordsman told her, "It happens to the best of us, sometimes the solution is right in front of you but because you worry too much you don't see it until someone else points it out."
"Speaking from experience there, Rean?" Giving her a smile in return to the teasing one that she was wearing he just nodded, "Yep, if getting struck inside your head because you worry too much was a martial art technique, then I would be without a doubt a top tier master in that style."
"Then next time you are in that situation you should come to me, and I will point out your solution. It is only fair that I help you in return given that you helped me with my problem." Chuckling he just nodded his agreement to her before they started to jog back to Trista while they continued talking on the way or appreciating how beautiful the morning scenery was, it was now when the town was already in sight that Alisa remembered to ask how their two problematic classmates had fared this time, "By the way, how did Machias and Jusis do in this field study? Did they managed to finally work together, or did they screw up once again?"
Thinking for a bit, he decided to answer her since she would see the answer to that question when these two were somewhat civil with each other during and after classes, "Yes, the start was a bit rocky but, in the end, these two managed to work together and even formed a combat link in battle with success." Not having expected that answer, Alisa nearly tripped but caught herself quickly before she could fall, "Are you serious?! How in Adioses name did you managed to make these two bury the hatchet?!"
Rean wasn't sure how he should answer that since the mayor turning point to that was his talk with Jusis where he told him some private things about himself while Machias was listening in and that was Jusis story to tell if he wanted to, so he decided to tell her about the way he had coaxed them to form a truce during the train ride and how furious they were with each other when their combat link failed in their battle against the Fate Spinner.
"They looked ready to kill each other, I thought that I was going to have to restrain them physically but then the monster who was faking its death attacked them out the blue and I….." Stopping mid-sentence he realised that perhaps it hadn't been a such good idea to tell her about this so early in the day since he had wanted to avoid to inform her of that particular part of their field study as long as possible, Rean remained quiet and just looked ahead leaving the story unfinished while thinking how he could avoid the questions that were sure to follow without him getting a lecture this early.
Finding his behaviour strange Alisa waited to see if he was going to finish telling what happened when he didn't, she asked him what had happened next, "Uh, so what did you when the monster attack them?" Deciding that perhaps he could avoid answering that if he got to the dorm fast enough, Rean jogged faster enough, "Would you look at the time? We should hurry we don't want to be late for class." Seeing him running faster and his avoidance to answer her question caused Alisa to come up with some ideas herself on what he could have done in that situation and knowing him, she could totally see him doing something reckless.
Narrowing her eyes at the fleeing swordsman the archer ran also faster to try to catch up with him while unknow to her she was releasing some pretty intimidating aura that just spurned Rean to run faster, "REAN! What did you do?!" Managing to remain ahead of her the swordsman reached the dorm and had managed to step inside just to see the other boys of Class VII sitting in the lounge chatting, who upon his arrival stopped talking to greet him with Jusis being the first, "Good morning, Rean. While I do admire someone that is diligent with his training, don't you think it would have been better to rest this morning instead of practicing."
"Well, old habits die hard and besides I am not that tired…" Out of reflex Rean answered Jusis accusation forgetting for just a moment why he should have continued running instead of standing around because the reason why he had been running managed to catch up to him and caught his shoulder pretty hard with an iron grip, "Ohh, Rean why aren't running anymore?" The boys shuddered for some reason when they heard Alisa's question and watching how the colour was draining from their classmate face clued them in that Rean had once again managed to set off the archer, "You know Alisa, we…ouch…should get ready…ow… for class." The blonde was applying such pressure to his shoulder that Rean could have sworn that he was hearing how his bones were cracking, "Don't worry about that Rean. We have more than enough time for you to explain exactly what happened afterwards with that Fate Spinner monster."
Hearing this both Machias and Jusis understood now why exactly the blonde girl was so angry, Machias stood up to support Rean, "You are right that what he did was completely reckless and could have ended very badly for him but in the end, Rean managed to come out in one piece. Of course, neither me or Albarea here will shy away from punishment since that incident was entirely our fault and Rean was just trying to save us so if you are going to lecture him about this, then please do the same to us we deserve it."
Machias may have sounded brave when he said all that, but that courage disappeared the moment Alisa's glare was directed at him causing him to freeze completely for several moments before he fell backwards on the sofa that he had been sitting on just a moment ago when that dreadful glare was directed away from him to his counterpart who for his part managed to endure it though the others could see the sweat beginning to form on his forehead the entire time.
The saving grace for three of them came in form of the rest of their class descending the stairs, Emma, Laura and Fie who stopped when they took notice of the scene before them with the class president slowly looking around before nervously greeting the others, "Good morning, everyone. Uhmm, did something happen?" Besides Rean whose shoulder was being slowly crushed the others looked towards the archer, "Nothing much. Rean here was just about to tell me in precise detail what happened after these two hotheads over there managed to screw up their combat link in battle." Realising what was going on both Fie and Emma exchanged looks leaving Laura with no clue what was going, though Fie quickly spook up when she saw that Alisa was going to interrogate the swordsman, "Please wait a moment, Alisa! Now isn't the right time for this."
Not having expected that the silver haired girl would speak up for him, Rean didn't lose any time to try and convince Alisa that they should have this conversation far later than right now, "Fie is right, we should prepare for class right now and not wasted time with a story that can be told at a later hour." The glare that he received in response was enough to let him know that he wouldn't get out of this one but before he could resign himself to his fate, Fie spoke again, "What are you talking about? Forget classes this here is far more interesting than any old boring class that we have." Surprised at what they were hearing since they though that the small girl was trying to help Rean earlier, Laura was the one spoke the question that everyone was thinking, "Fie, what do you mean by that? Weren't you trying to help Rean out?"
Shaking her head Fie went in the direction of the kitchen, "Nope, I just wanted her to wait so that I can make myself some juice and a sandwich to watch this." With that she disappeared in the kitchen leaving the others dumfounded at that remark, "Thanks a lot, Fie." Murmuring to himself Rean tried to think of a way how to reduce the oncoming lecture but couldn't come up with anything, "How about we go take a shower because we really need to get ready for classes and then I will tell you what happened? No need to glare at me like that, Alisa. It isn't like I can escape besides even if I didn't tell you about that, I am sure that the others, especially Fie would tell you about it. So, pretty please?"
Hoping that the archer was going the accept his proposal he gave her a shaky smile, perhaps deciding that he was right she released his shoulder that had fallen asleep since she had managed to cut the blood circulation with her grip but before she could give him a warning that he better didn't try to evade her questions, Fie's voice came from inside the kitchen, "Of course, I would tell her. My favourite part was when you tried to pass your injury as a small scratch since it wasn't deep enough for us to see your bone." Facepalming at that remark that managed to raise the archer's anger at him, Rean could only ask, "Fie! Did I do something to upset you?!" A nonchalantly 'Nope' came from the girl who was coming out of the kitchen with a cup of juice and a sandwich in each hand, sitting beside Eliot the small girl looked with anticipation at both Rean and Alisa.
Taking some calming breaths Alisa managed to push her irritation and anger down before fixing a glare at the boy standing in front of her, "Fine, we will talk about this latter when we are exchanging our reports this way, I can take all the time, I need for lecturing you. Before that show me first where you got hurt and don't try to sugar coat it, Mister." Thanking the goddess for small mercies, he rolled up his sleeve and showed her his arm, "See not even a scar remains and Emma gave me the go ahead back in Bareahard to fight, so as you can see everything is fine, there is no need for you to worry, Alisa."
Looking at Emma who confirmed his words with a nod, Alisa took his arm and examined it like they had been taught in Medic Class no matter how hard she looked she couldn't find anything wrong with it, so she released his arm, (Seems like everything is good, there is neither a scar nor are his muscles damaged in some way, perhaps he is right and that injury wasn't that big a deal, though I will definitely ask Emma and Fie for more details about it later.)
Disappointed that she would have to wait for this show, Fie took a bit of her sandwich while looking at the two of them, suddenly she narrowed her eyes when she saw that there really wasn't even a hint of a scar left on Rean's arm, leaving the sofa while chewing her food, she approached him to take a better look, "No scar? How? While it wasn't that deep it shouldn't have healed that fast, do you have some kind of alien constitution?" Rolling his eyes at that question Rean thought to himself, (No, I don't have an alien constitution just a demonic one although it doesn't help me heal faster as far as I know, at least.)
Before answering her, "Not that I know of, my only explanation is that the salve from Emma's grandmother was really effective for this kind of injuries." The whole class looked at the girl in question who suddenly seemed uncomfortable with the attention that she was getting, "Oh, that is interesting. Do have any more of that salve Emma? Given what we do for training here at the academy and what we do in our field studies we could use of some that miracle salve for our injuries."
Shaking her head quickly Emma denied Gaius hopeful question, "I am really sorry everyone, that was the only one that I had left. My grandmother told me that it was made from several rare medical herbs, and she just managed to make one portion for me before I left home, I am sorry." Steeping away from the black-haired swordsman Alisa calmed her down, "No need to apologise, Emma. If it is something that good, then of course it should be rare besides we have Instructor Beatrix here that can help us with our injuries, and we also have our own healing arts in case we need them. Of course, it would be better if no one was injured at all." The last part was directed a certain someone who sheepishly rubbed the back of his head while avoiding her scowling look, with an 'hpmh' the archer left the others and went to take upstairs to take a shower.
"Seems like you got a rocky start this morning, let's just hope that she won't be too stern with you later on, Rean" Dropping his shoulders at Eliot statement, he could pray the same to the goodness and hope that she took pity on him, "I really hope so Eliot and thanks for 'helping' me with this Fie." Saluting him with her cup for a moment the girl went back to eating, "Always happy to help." Amused at that the stern look his friend was giving her, Gaius redirected Rean's attention to him, "By the way, was that your plan? To distract Alisa from her worries by telling her how reckless you were?"
Hearing the reproachful undertone in Gaius voice, Rean quickly denied it, "No, that wasn't the plan at all. We talked about it this morning and I think I managed to calm her worries down a bit." Seeing the curious looks that were being sent his way, he decided to share what exactly Alisa's worry had been, "Apparently when you guys went to report your last task yesterday to Marquis Hyarms, there was a certain Earl Xavier Noir present."
The members of Group B looked at each when they heard that before nodding and Gaius adding some information to it, "Yes, he looked like a kind middle-aged man, who seemed pretty sophisticated and he did treat us well, he also told us his son was a first year here at the academy and that he would be happy if we could become acquainted with him, but what does that have to do with Alisa?"
Hearing this Jusis instantly understood what was going on, "I think I know what happened, Earl Noir is pretty famous in the noble's circle and while his family name isn't on the same level as the Four Great Houses, it isn't too far from it. He is a famous diplomat trusted by his Majesty the Emperor with managing the connections Erebonia has with the rest of the continent, though he mainly deals with the Calvard Republic, and other countries situated in the eastern part of the continent, his connection inside the Empire aren't also to be underestimated be there with nobles or commoners. I take it that he manged to recognise Alisa and knows her family name?"
A bit impressed that Jusis had managed to arrive at that just from him saying the earls name, Rean confirmed his question, "Yes, that is the case. Apparently, Alisa has been thinking of telling us about her last name for a while but meeting that Earl and hearing that his son was here, she feared that he would tell us her name before she was ready to tell us herself, so she panicked a bit. But I think that she will talk with him and ask him not to tell anyone else her name." The rest of the class was somewhat relieved that the archers worry had been just that, though Rean noticed that Machias seemed to wear a somewhat ashamed look on his face, "Machias, is everything alright?"
"What? Oh, everything is fine just…." Waiting for the green haired boy to continuing the others looked at him, "Could it be my fault that Alisa hasn't told us her last name, I mean because of my behaviour against Rean and Albarea here?" Chuckling to himself Rean alleviated his concerns, "Don't worry about that Machias. I don't think that is the case even when I met her for the first time four years ago, she hesitated in telling me her name. I believe that she hadn't an easy time making friends when she was younger because of her family name, I think you can understand that the most out of everyone here, right Jusis?"
"Yes, if one's name stands for something far bigger than a single person then most people just see that name and not the person holding it. There are three categories for these kinds of people, the first ones try to get close to use that name for their own benefits, the second just ignore them preferring not having anything to with the person holding that name and the third and most rare are to ones who just see the person and not the name and treat them like everyone else. I guess one of the reasons why Alisa is so worried about you is because you are one of the rare ones who treated her like a normal person, take it from me that people like you are really scarce."
Not having expected that the conversation would go in that the direction, no one spoke for a while before Rean opened his mouth, "Well, I wouldn't go that far but maybe you are right and Jusis?" looking in his direction he waited for Rean to continue, "I think that you know this already but here in Class VII you are with friends who see you and not the Albarea name." Not knowing how to react to that it took Jusis a moment before he snorted, "Please spare me that kind of sappiness, Schwarzer it is far too early in the day for that. I think you should direct that to Alisa maybe it will lessen the lecture that you are sure to receive this evening."
"I think you meant, that we are sure to receive Jusis. Don't forget what you and Machias said yesterday that you would share it with me." Remembering that two boys were somewhat regretful that they had made that decision after experiencing how scary the blonde archer could be this morning, but they nonetheless decided to take it since it was indeed their fault that things had spiralled out of control so they would take the scolding as their form of punishment for it. "Sigh, you are right that we will receive. Though I must admit that I am somewhat curious about her background since most people that Earl Noir has a connection with are quite high in the importance scale of the empire and she is from Roer. Family names that start with an R that are from that city, could she be…..?"
Seeing where the blonde noble was going, Rean stopped him quickly since that Alisa's secret to tell, "I don't think that it is that important but in case you are wondering she isn't from the Rogner Family, I met Angelica Rogner last week and she told me as much." Awakening from his thoughts Jusis conceded that he was right, and it wasn't his place to guess other people secrets, "You are absolutely correct, Rean. We will just have to wait until she is ready to tell us herself. My apologies."
Waving that away Rean started heading for the stairs to go take a quick shower before getting his books for class but before he could leave Laura called out to him, "Rean, just a quick question please?" Turning around he saw that the blue haired girl was looking at him with a pensive look in her eyes, so he indicated her to go on, "You said that you met Alisa four years ago, correct?" another nod and she asked her next question, "Then, do you know where she got the idea for the name R?"
Not knowing why she was asking that particular question, Rean was going to tell her the truth that the name R had been his idea but before he could speak, he suddenly remembered how his last meeting with the Rogner heir went, where she had told him that it had been a cute boy that Alisa had met that gave her that idea, suddenly getting a bad feeling with this topic, he just shook his head, "Sorry, when she introduced herself she told me her name was Alisa R. Is there a reason why you are asking me that?" Rean technically didn't lie since Alisa had started introducing herself like that; he just didn't tell her that it had been his suggestion to use that letter as a name.
"I am also an acquaintance of Angelica and for some reason she told to me to discreetly inquire from Alisa where she got that name from. I did ask her why she was so interested in that and why she didn't just ask Alisa herself, but she was pretty tight lipped about it, though she did promise me that she would do anything that I desire in return. Though knowing Angelica that is an offer that I certainly won't ever take."
Recalling how Angelica Rogner had shamelessly flirted with Alisa caused a strained smile to appear on Rean's face, "Well, perhaps you should ask Alisa that question?" shrugging at that Laura went into the kitchen to get something to eat, taking this opportunity Rean went finally upstairs to take his shower, (I guess I should give Alisa a heads up concerning Angelica, I shudder to think what would happen if the others got wind of the fact that Alisa thought that I was 'cute' back then. Better make sure that never happens or we will never hear the end of it, especially from Fie.)
Sometime later Class VII went into school to undertake their classes for the day, thankfully for Rean nothing happened that would further upset the blonde archer, though she made sure that as soon as classes were done she didn't let the black haired swordsman out of her sight, since he couldn't escape he asked her if she wanted to go shopping with him, "I don't mind going with you but what are going to buy?"
"Well, I did tell the others in my group that I would treat them to a nice meal because on how well they did in this field study, Machias and Jusis in particular, and since we are all going to exchange our reports this evening, I thought that I would use this opportunity to cook something for all of us." Taking out a list from his pocket Rean entered the General Store and went to the shelf containing the ingredients that he was looking for. "Oh, that is very nice of you but did the others accept your offer? Because neither Emma or Fie did say anything about that when we talked during Nutritional Science class or are you just looking for an excuse to treat our class to dinner?"
Chuckling Rean put some ingredients into the cart, "To precise, I did offer them a meal but before they could say either yes or no we were surrounded by soldiers from the provincial army, so I will take their absence of a reply as a yes." Rolling her eyes at that statement Alisa took one look at the list and went in search of the remaining ingredients while looking for them the archer realised what he was going to make for dinner, "Hotpot? You are going to make Hotpot again?"
"Yes, I already asked Nicholas if can lend me the necessary utensils again, he gave me his Ok and he will come by later to give them to us in the dormitory. Is something wrong?" Noticing the frown that had suddenly appeared on Alisa's face caused him to ask her that question. "If I remember correctly Instructor Sara lamented for days on how expensive that dinner had been and now you are going to pay out your own pocket the same amount for us? I don't think that is very fair to you, the rest of us should at least pay for a part of this."
"There is no need for that, the reason why I passed on the bill last time was only to teach the instructor that she shouldn't try to take advantage of me, I have more than enough money to pay for this." Finished with getting everything that he needed, Rean went ahead to the cashier to pay for everything.
"Besides, I was the one that made the offer, so of course I should be the one to pay otherwise how could it be my treat?" Still not convinced that he should pay everything Alisa was ready to try and convince him otherwise but when she saw the price for everything she was stunned since if she remembered correctly the first time, it had only cost 9389 mira but this time it was over twelve thousand. "Uh, Rean? Why is the price higher than last time?"
Handing over the money, Rean shrugged his shoulders, "Because I asked Brandon if he could get some spices that are used in eastern cuisine last time I was here, I was going to try and make another eastern dish, but they can also be used in Hotpot and luckily, they arrived while we were on our field studies. Thanks Brandon." After thanking the owner and packing everything, he got the bags and left the store with Alisa behind him, just to stop when he saw Tyzel outside playing with that weird 'cat', making his way over to the pair he greeted the young girl, "Hey Tyzel, how have you been?"
"Hi, Rean. Hi, Alisa. I am fine, what about the two of you?" Crouching down a little Alisa patted the girl on the head before turning her attention to the 'cat', "We are ok, got done with some shopping in your father's store. Who is this pretty kitty? First time, I am seeing her in town. Is she yours?" Slowly approaching the feline Alisa started stroking her fur while Tyzel answered her, "No, she isn't mine. To be honest, I don't know who she belongs to, she just appeared here in the park one day."
Getting a closer look at the 'cat' Alisa noticed the collar with a bell on it, "Hmm, she has a collar and given how well-groomed her fur is, I am certain that she must have an owner. What do you think, Rean?" Putting the bags on a nearby bench Rean started to approach it but stopped when he noticed that it still seemed wary of him, "I would also say that she has an owner, but I don't have the slightest idea who it could be though Emma is also acquainted with this 'cat'." Thinking for a moment while the two girls continued playing with the supposed feline Rean decided to try to placate it, taking two hundred mira he gave it to Tyzel, "Here is some money, Tyzel. How about you go inside a get some milk for her?"
Not having expected that both girls looked at him in surprise, "Really? Yeah, I wanted to give her something to eat for a while, but Daddy didn't want me to feed her in case she got too attached to me and would come beg for food every day." Looking at the happily grinning girl made the older students also smile, "That money should last for a while, so if you give her some milk once day it should last you for two weeks at least and Brandon can't exactly complain since I am the one paying for the milk." Scooping up the cat Tyzel thanked him again and after saying goodbye ran in the direction of the store while carrying the cat in her arms leaving Rean to get their bags and Alisa to look fondly at him while a teasing light shined in her eyes.
"That was really nice of you, Rean. I didn't know that also like to help animals out while the cat didn't look a stray at all, I think that it will be very happy with the extra milk that it will get thanks to you. What's next? Will you also be building her a shelter in case it starts to rain?" Taking her teasing in stride, the swordsman began walking towards their dorm, "I won't go that far, I was just trying to make amends so to speak." Seeing the questioning look she was giving him, he explained what he meant, "I met that 'cat' last week during our free day and don't know how or why but I seem to have offended it since it tried to scratch me and doesn't let me near it since then."
A bit surprised at that Alisa didn't question it any further but continued teasing him for always helping everything and everyone out though she didn't forget to discuss with him that he should at least let her pay her share for dinner and she was pretty sure that others would also pay, unfortunately for her, he was adamant on his stance to pay for it, "Don't worry about it. I have enough money set aside to easily pay for this and still have enough left to pay for everything that I need for my daily consume."
"Still, this should eat a lot into your savings, besides I am sure that your parents would want you to spend your allowance on yourself and not on others." Opening the doors to the kitchen Rean let her inside first like a gentleman which caused her to roll her eyes at him, in return he gave her a wink, "This here is from my own money that I earned before coming to the academy and like I said I have enough left, that I won't be strapped for money." That managed to stop her in her tracks and whirl around to look at him while putting her hand on her hip, "Wait, that is even worse. Rean, really let me talk with the others so that…." Putting the bags on the table, he started to organise what he was going to need for later and what he should start preparing, "Nope, Alisa. I meant what I said, I don't mind paying for all of this since I was the one that came up with the idea besides even if I lack money later, thanks to our field studies and our regular trips into the old schoolhouse for training, I have more than enough sepith to exchange for money in case that I need it."
Seeing that he wasn't going to budge Alisa put this conversation on hold for later while helping him putting the ingredients away for the moment and help him out with getting everything ready for dinner. The archer wasn't used to cooking very much but she was at least capable enough to ease his workload a bit with prepping the ingredients, for a while they worked together casually chatting with each other to help pass the time. Their main topic was the oncoming exams that would start in two weeks, they discussed if they should work out some study sessions that would help them prepare as much as possible for their tests and would ask the remaining members of their class if they wanted to join in, this went on a while until they were done with everything, and Nicholas had brought over the necessary cooking utensils they needed.
While he thanked the aspiring chef for the items and promised him to share the recipe with him later, Rean gaze fell onto his mailbox which caused him to remember that it had been a while since he had last checked it. Opening it he found a letter inside from his parents, (That's right, I nearly forgot that I still haven't written them a letter this month. Better read this one quickly and write a reply to them this evening and send it tomorrow morning, perhaps I should also write a letter to Elise.)
Back in the kitchen, he opened the letter and started reading while Alisa was cleaning their used knives until she heard a surprised "How do they….?" coming from the swordsman, putting the knife that she was cleaning safely away she began walking towards to the boy who was clearly surprised by what he was reading. "Is everything ok there, Rean?" Shaking his head to get his bearings he looked at the girl, "Yeah, everything is fine. Just got a letter from my parents here and was just surprised at something." Taking the seat next to him, she took a bottle of water and filled two glasses for them, "Mind if I ask what got you so surprised?"
"Oh, I don't mind, especially since it has something to do with you." Startled at that answer, she could only look at him with confusion on her face, deciding that perhaps he should explain from the beginning, "I wrote my parent a letter describing how my first weeks at Thor's were, the new class and so on, before we went to Celdic and since at that time we weren't on speaking terms with each other I asked my parents for some advice on how to make up with you, wait I didn't go into any details on what happened I just said that there was a female classmate of mine that I managed to offend on the first day and wanted to make it up to her, I didn't even tell them that it had been you Alisa." Seeing the glare that Alisa was sending him when he was explaining he quickly assured that he hadn't give them any details on what had happened that day, "You better not! And I seem to recall that we have agreed to forget whatever happened, didn't we?"
Sensing the danger coming from her, Rean quickly nodded, "Yes, of course. I have completely forgotten it; I don't even remember whatever caused you to be so mad at me." Noticing that she didn't seem to be entirely convinced, he spoke quickly to drive her attention away from that memory, "Anyway, my mother wrote back that if whatever happened was really my fault then I should beg for forgiveness until the girl accepted it. After we came back from the field study, I wrote to her that I had managed to make up with my classmate."
"Ok, then what did your parents write you that surprised like that and what does it have to do with me?" Sighing internally that the danger seemed to have passed Rean told her, "Well, it says here that they are glad that we managed to patch things up between us Alisa and my mother is asking how you are doing since it has been nearly two years since the last time you two met each other." Tilting her head for a bit, the archer still didn't understand why that managed to surprise him like that, "Isn't that normal? I mean, they are glad that we made up and your mother did seem like the polite type, so it seems normal to ask a question like that. I still don't understand why you reacted like that?"
"You are right on every account Alisa but since I first wrote to them, I never mentioned that it was you, Alisa. I never mentioned your name in any of my letters, this is why I am so surprised. How do my parents know that it was you?" Now it was her turn to be stunned finally understanding his reaction, "Are you sure that you didn't mention me in any letter to them, I mean how else would they have known that was me and not somebody else?"
"I was going to tell them in my next letter that you were my classmate, but I am certain that I never mention your name in any form to them since coming to the academy. This is why I am so baffled about this." Racking his brain, he couldn't come up with any idea on how they found out that Alisa was the female classmate that he had written to them, after a while neither came up with any possible idea on how that was possible, so he decided to ask them about it on his next letter, putting that aside Rean recalled that he still hadn't asked Alisa if she had spoken with the son of Earl Noir, "Anyway, did you speak with the Earl's son about not calling you by your family name?"
Coming to the same conclusion that they wouldn't get an answer to this new mystery at least for now, Alisa answered him, "I asked Angelica if she could speak to him about that, since I don't know what he looks like, and I didn't want to start any rumours if I went to Class I and asked about that Noir fellow. During lunch Angelica told me that he understood my request and would keep quiet about it until I was ready to tell you guys, though he did ask me if we could meet up to get to know each other better."
"Oh? Are you going to meet with him then?"
"Yeah, after all I am the one asking him for a favour in this matter, so the least I could do is to thank him in person and like I said perhaps he isn't another noble like Patrick or Ferris and we could become friends, who knows." Not sure why or where it came from, but Rean suddenly got the feeling that he didn't want Alisa to meet with that guy alone, suppressing that feeling since it was none of his business who Alisa meet with, he distracted himself with re-reading the letter his parents sent him until he heard the others returning to their dormitory one by one.
It didn't take much convincing the rest of Class VII to eat their dinner together and after they managed to clean everything up while praising that the hotpot this time tasted far better than the last one, both Group A and Group B started to read the others reports. To no one's surprise when Alisa read what happened during their fight against the Fate Spinner she glared straight at the swordsman who for his part was giving his all to endure that glare though he wasn't alone in that regard since the other two boys from Group A were also getting the same treatment Jusis managed to endure it somewhat while gripping the table with his hand so hard that his knuckles turned white though Machias was squirming on his seat the entire time, releasing an annoyed sigh Alisa spoke to the three of them.
"I won't say anything regarding your conduct during and after the battle since I believe that what you two felt afterwards should be enough to drive home the point to never let something like that ever happened again and you Rean while I am not happy that you would disregard your safety like that and joke about it afterwards, I will admit that from all possible things that I thought of that you could have done this was actually the least dangerous one." Surprised that they were getting away with just that no one spoke word until Alisa pointed straight at Rean, "But it doesn't mean that you did well, I mean how can you possibly save someone if you can't even manage to keep save yourself."
Unexpectedly Jusis and Machias started to snicker after they overcame their initial astonishment with Rean smiling in chagrin while the others could just watch the trio not understanding their reactions, "Care to explain what is so funny?!" Upping the intensity of her glare managed to shut the two up at once, with Machias explaining their reactions, "Sorry Alisa we weren't laughing at you, we swear. We just found it funny that you nearly said the same thing that Rean's master has said to him countless time." That got the others attention quickly with Laura in the lead, "Are you speaking about Master Yun Ka-fai?"
"I don't know the name of his master but apparently, he has said the same thing to him over and over again though we can all see that it didn't stick with him, perhaps if we add yourselves to the list he will finally listen to it." As one the rest of Class VII looked at Rean who just throw his hands up in mock surrender from their looks, before anyone said anything else that would get him in further trouble he tried to change the subject, "Putting that aside for the moment, from your reports we can assume that Marquis Hyarms is also strengthening his provincial army to an unprecedent degree too though it doesn't seem to compare to the modification Aurochs Fort got."
It didn't escape anyone's notice what he was doing but deciding that this matter deserved their undivided attention Jusis was the first one to comment on it, "Unlike my father, Marquis Hyarms is a reasonable man, so I can assume that while he too raised his taxes throughout his domain he did it at an acceptable pace unlike Duke Albarea which would explain why the strength of his army didn't seem that exaggerate compared to Aurochs Fort. Still, if even he is taking this kind of action, then I am sure that the two other Great Houses are doing the same thing." Silence fell after these words which managed to show the rest how serious the situation in the Empire was turning out to be, gathering his courage the redhaired musician raised the question that burning inside him, "Why are they doing this? I mean, why are they trying to compete with the imperial army both are from the same country, so I don't understand it."
"No matter how hard this is to accept or understand, this is the current situation in Erebonia and let's be honest the Imperial Army is doing the same thing strengthening themselves as much they can but we all shouldn't forget one simple thing." Everyone attention was focused on Rean at that moment, "We are students, we aren't here to help the two Factions solve their differences nor to comment or influence both armies, we are here to learn and to grow the best we can, we don't know what the future holds. Perhaps after we graduate, we can tackle these problems but for now we should acknowledge the situation and observe and learn from it nothing more and nothing less. So, try to not let this situation influence your actions or your time here. Don't forget that we are just students here."
This got them thinking that Rean was right there wasn't much they could at the moment even the son of the duke or the son of the imperial governor of Heimdallr had to accept that the situation was far beyond them, the dignified silence was broken by the snickering Fie "I will give you bonus points for making that statement sounding far better than Sara did on the train." The rest of Group A, besides Rean, nodded their heads in acknowledge causing the swordsman to roll his eyes while Group B looked confused about what they were talking about, though they did laugh when Fie told them word for word what Sara had said to them on the way back from Bareahard. With that done they read the rest of the report from Group A until Laura reached the part where Fie opened the door to the guardhouse, "Uhm, Fie? Why does it say that you used small portable bombs to clear the way inside the prison where Machias was being held?"
The rest of Group B also looked at the small girl with curiosity in their eyes, who in return just told them the truth, "Before I came to academy, I was part of a jaeger corps. There I learned everything that I know from fighting to making bombs which came in handy back there." The nonchalantly way that she just dropped that bomb caused Group B to freeze unsure on how to react to that though unnoticed by nearly anyone Laura showed for just a short moment anger on her face before she switched to a more stoic expression.
"Sorry, but I am unfamiliar with the term jaeger? What does it mean?" Seeing Gaius asking about jaegers, Rean explained to him what it meant, "Jaegers are at their core mercenaries, if you got enough money to pay them, they will work for you." Apparently, Laura wasn't satisfied with that explanation since she added some more details regarding jaegers in an icy tone, "What Rean means to say is that for the right price, jaegers will do anything no matter how morally wrong it is, am I right Fie?" There was a sudden tension when the two girls looked at each other only to be broken by Fie, "Yep." Not sure what was suddenly going on between these two Alisa tried to divert their attention from each other, "Anyway, Fie. Please tell me that you don't carry anymore plastic bombs with you, I don't care how good you are with them there are far too dangerous for someone your age to deal with."
The silver haired girl just took a sip of her juice before answering, "I used all that I had on that door back in Bareahard, for now I don't have enough to make a bomb." Relieved to hear that the young girl didn't have anything left, the others were going to caution her on using stuff like that in the future though that relief was fairly short lived when Fie continued on, "I will have to meet with my supplier in town tomorrow to order some more." Sweat dropping at that nearly everyone lost their composure, Rean was going to advise her not to when he noticed a detail on what she just said, "Wait, what do you mean in town? Are telling me there is someone in town who sells you bombs?!"
"Yep." Facepalming at that revelation Rean asked himself who in their right mind would sell something that dangerous to a fifteen-year-old girl no matter if she was a former jaeger or not, "Fie! I don't think that Instructor Sara would be happy to know that someone is selling her students a substance that dangerous."
"What are you saying? It was Sara who told me about that person in the first place." Stunned silence appeared at that remark soon followed by groans of despair at their instructor and some growling about how irresponsible she was, speaking of that irresponsible no-good instructor of theirs, she walked right into the kitchen wearing a big smile on her face at that moment, "Ahh it warms my heart to see you all working together… what the hell are you guys eating?!" The smile quickly disappeared when she recognised what her students were eating still feeling the pain on having paid for that extravagant meal last time, Sara spoke quickly, "I am not paying for that this time, you hear?!"
Giving her a cold look Rean spoke with a menacing undertone, "I am really tempted right now to make you also pay for this." Not sure why her students besides Fie were looking so coldly at her made Sara confused on what was going on but the memory on giving her hard-earned money away last time cleared her head pretty fast, "Eh no, nope, non, njet, nein, não you can forget about that. No way in Gehenna am I paying for this again not matter what the Colonel says." Slowly standing up Alisa placed her hands on the table to pin their instructor down with a glare, "Care to explain why you thought that it was a good idea to introduce Fie to someone that sells bombs and who knows what else to her?!"
Suddenly understanding why, they were behaving like that Sara calmed down and started making her way to the fridge to take out some beer for the evening, "Because this way I know what she is buying and can supervise her, besides if I didn't introduce her who knows where she would get her supplies from and with that, I bid you all an good evening and see you tomorrow in class, ciao." Watching their instructor walking away while humming and sipping on some beer should already be a familiar sight for the members of Class VII and yet their instructor always managed to find new ways to make them despair at her actions or question her sanity. The rest of the evening was spent on reading the reports and finishing writing their experience on this field study and so on, declining the others offers to clean up the kitchen Rean and Alisa stayed behind.
For a while no one said anything, they just worked quietly with each other to clean but it was the good kind of quiet, after they were done Rean made them some Darjeeling tea with some rice crackers to enjoy, "I swear that woman will give me white hair before the schoolyear is over (and in my case that is not a good thing!)" Massaging his head that was throbbing from just thinking about their instructor actions Rean could only complain, sitting beside him was Alisa who wore the same expression as he did, "Yeah, who in their right mind allows a young girl like Fie to purchase bombs?"
"As much as I am loathe to admit it, from a certain point what Instructor Sara did was right course of action." Seeing the flabbergasted expression on her face he explained, "While her actions are unconventional, she was right when she said that this way, she can oversee what Fie buys and doesn't have to worry that she will go someplace dangerous though given the fact that Fie is an ex-jaeger she should be more than capable of taking care of herself." Stirring her tea Alisa had to begrudgingly admit that he was right, "Looking it that way her actions make sense but still I don't know how to feel about the fact that someone as young as Fie is carrying something like that around and knowing how to use it."
"I wouldn't worry about it too much from what I saw she knows how to handle it safely or is it the fact that she was a jaeger bothering you?" Stopping for a moment to think the archer shook her head, "No, not really. I mean we don't know how Fie became a jaeger in the first place or why but that won't make me treat her differently and while I admit that I don't like thinking about all the danger she had to have been in when she was a jaeger it is not my place to judge her for it."
Giving her a smile, Rean took her both of their cups and put them in the sink to wash them, "Yes, Fie is Fie. It doesn't matter if she was a former jaeger or not, we won't treat her differently because of it, although did I just imagine it or did Laura seem somewhat uncomfortable with this new fact about Fie?" Knowing what he meant, Alisa thought back at the sudden tension between the two girls, "Perhaps she was just surprised at that and didn't react well to it? I will keep an eye on Laura and Fie, the last thing that we need is another quarrelling duo after Machias and Jusis finally agreed to work together."
"Amen to that. So, about that study session that we were talking about earlier this evening, do you want to start tomorrow, I can talk with the boys, and you talk with girls?" Nodding her head Alisa cleaned the rest of the table, "Yeah, I will see if they are interested in taking part, it would be a big help if Emma or Machias could be there these two are after all the top two scorers in our class and our year. Though with the others in different clubs I imagine that it would be hard to find a good time for them all to participate, perhaps we will have to adjust the schedule for different days and so on."
"True. By the way, don't you have lacrosse practice in the morning, and you are still tired from yesterday, so how about you turn in for the night? Just a friendly suggestion." Seeing the look that she was giving he raised his hands in surrender and quickly explained his intention. Rolling her eyes at his theatrics, Alisa had to concede that it was getting late and morning practice was always hard especially if Ferris was going to challenge her again to some nonsense competition, "You are right, I should go to sleep. What about you?" Done with washing and drying the cups, he out them in the cupboard, "I am going to train my forms for a while and then also go to sleep."
Hearing him mention the word train bought the archer a question to mind, "What are you going to with training during this time? I mean with our study session planned you will have less time for it. Are you going to slow down on your morning training or combat training in the old schoolhouse?" Not understanding why, he should do that at all, Rean didn't even think before answering, "Why should I slow down? I mean it will just take some time to get used to it but in the end, I don't plan to stop my training at all and if anything, the last two field studies have shown me that I should increase it instead."
That managed to stop the archer in her tracks slowly turning around she faced him, "Are you trying to tell me that you want to keep your current training regime plus increased study time until the exams?" Realising that perhaps he shouldn't have said he tried to come up with something to salvage the situation while Alisa went on, "And how could I forget, you probably will also continue to being a gopher to the student council and still help the people in town. Do you even plan on sleeping during that time at all?!"
"Well, to be honest Martial Arts are like swimming upstream in a river, every day that I don't train will just push my skills back and Towa is already so swamped with work that I would feel bad for her if I don't help her out, and I prefer the term helper instead of gopher." Seeing the twitching vein on her head made Rean notice that he was just digging himself deeper into the hole that he had made, so he just stopped and tried to reason with her, "Come on, Alisa. I will be fine. I have been doing this for a long time even before coming to Thor's it is just a matter of finding the right balance for this."
Knowing that no matter what she said Rean would just go ahead and do it no matter if he was dead tired afterwards or not, so she made the only decision that she could, "I know that trying to convincing you is just a waste of time, so I will just keep doing what I have been doing coming with you to train to make sure that you don't overdo it and get yourself sick or hurt." To emphasis her point she stabbed him in the chest with her finger while she was talking, hearing that she was still going to accompanying him with his training he quickly tried to dissuade her from doing that, "Alisa there is no need for you to do that, it won't be easy to keep up with….."
Midsentence he realised that every argument that he could come up with could also be used against him, so he didn't know what to say, seeing this the archer shoot the arrow that would end this conversation, "You said it yourselves Martial Arts are like swimming upstream in a river every day etc. etc. and since I don't want my skills to regress I will go with you unless you will actually try to train less during this period?" Discerning that he wouldn't do that from his speechless manner Alisa grinned at him and went upstairs leaving him in the lounge, "Now with that taken care of, good night, Rean. See you tomorrow morning."
Groaning out loud the swordsman could just lament the fact that Alisa was getting too used on how to handle him, though he couldn't decide if that was a good or bad thing, putting that for a later date he glanced at the sofa, "How long are you planning to hide behind that, Fie?" Wearing her usual deadpan expression, the small girl calmly walked out of her hiding place while a smirk was slowly spreading on her face, "I came down for some water and didn't want to interrupt you two in case you were planning on getting hot and heavy with each other, so I hid when you came out."
Deciding not to acknowledge that last part though he couldn't suppress the eye roll, "Fie regarding on you wanting to stock up on supplies tomorrow, do you mind if I come with you to talk with Mitch?" That managed to get the teasing grin out of her face, "Who said anything about Mitch?" Now it was his turn to grin at her, "I know all the shops in town and the only one who would be shady and crazy enough to sell you bombs is Mitch. Besides I always wondered how he stays in business since his pawn shop isn't that well known in town or that it is devoid of people every time, I set foot in there. You and Sara telling me that your supplier is in town would explain a lot and I am sure that he doesn't just deal bombs and the like, perhaps also in information?"
"You know being too sharp isn't always a good thing, Rean." Adopting a serious look Fie revalued her classmate for a second time, the first was when she heard that he fought Laura to a draw and when she saw the way he fought against Sara and gave him a warning, "Mitch is primarily an information broker, and the other things are just a side business for him." Thoughts spun in his head at that information, "How big is his network? Both inside and outside?" On hearing this type of question, a certain theory appeared inside her mind, though she waited to see if he would confirm it himself, "His main focus is the western part of the continent, but he can stretch some feelers towards the east though he can't guarantee the quality if it goes too far into the east."
"Sepith or Mira? Half first or the full amount upfront or after? Do I need a recommendation?" That just proved her theory, "Depends on the type of information though for the sensitive ones he just accepts sepith and half first and the rest later. I can give you one." Done with his inquiries, Rean fell silent giving Fie the opportunity to ask some questions of her own, "Care to explain on how you know to ask these types of questions, because only someone who is used to the underworld would ask them in that specific manner?" Deciding that sharing that with her wouldn't hurt since she told their class about a part of her past, though he wouldn't go into details on how he got acquainted with that side of the world, "Let's just say that during my travels with my master in the east, I saw both the good and the bad sides of this world and leave it at that."
Understanding that he wouldn't explain further Fie gave him a nod before entering the kitchen, "I will probably go after classes are done, you can join me if you want, or I can give Mitch an heads up that you are coming and I shouldn't have to warn you but he doesn't come cheap given his network so bring enough money with you."
"Fifty thousand for the first half and another fifty if he can give me what I want, that should be enough no?" With another nod Fie disappeared from his sights and Rean made his way into his room, (I wasn't expecting to find an informant of that calibre here in Trista and since both Instructor Sara and Fie can vouch for him, he should be trustworthy enough, I will have to see if he can help me or not tomorrow, for now I should just concentrate on my training.)
The next day went by pretty quickly the only things worth of notice was that all the instructors were giving them far more homework than usual in preparation of the upcoming midterms and that after classes were done a first year from Class I came looking for the members of Group B, especially Alisa. He had brown hair that he wore in a slick back form, with green eyes and was of average height, from the way he moved one could see that he was well trained in some type of martial art, "Greetings members of Class VII, my name is Charles Noir. I am the son and heir of Earl Xavier Noir who some of you met during your brief stay in the Old Capital." He introduced himself in a manner befitting a noble without sounding condescending which given how most nobles behaved nowadays was a surprise in itself.
"My father asked me to meet you all in the hope that we all could become friends." At that point his demeanour changed completely from a noble to what appeared to be an approachable common youth, "Though to be honest, we are the ones that are getting to know each other, so what all due respect to my father, I would like to get to know you all before deciding if we are going to be friends or not and I am sure that it is the same for you. There is no pressure at all, it doesn't matter who my father or who your family is, here at Thor's Military Academy we are all equals or so the theory goes anyway." Some members of Class VII were caught off guard by sudden change and his words, after some hesitation they all introduced themselves to him and true to his word he treated them all the same no matter their social statues, after they were done with the introduction he invited them all to Kirsches for the afternoon, not everyone could go since some had clubs or other plans, unexpectedly it was just the boys who stayed behind while the girls (Emma decided that Fie should go too, leaving the smaller girl no other option than to follow them) accepted his invitation.
"I got to admit after hearing that he was the son of an earl, I thought he would be like Hyarms, arrogant and snobbish but he was actually a pretty approachable guy." Even Machias was impressed with the conduct of that guy with Elliot and Gaius agreeing with him, though it didn't take long for Jusis to snort at him, "I would have been more surprised if he hadn't been so 'approachable'." Thanks to their newfound truce Machias just raised an eyebrow at that, instead of the usual snapping back "And what is that supposed to mean?" It was Rean who answered the question, "From what Jusis told us yesterday, his father is a highly skilled diplomat and that is a job where you have to have the necessary skills to interact with various people and as his heir there is no doubt that he cultivated those skills from an early age."
Surprised at what they were hearing Elliot was the first to voice his doubts, "Are you trying to tell us that this was all an act?" Shaking his head at the redhead Rean tried to explain, "Of course not, just because his father taught him some of skills, it doesn't mean that he wasn't being honest with us. Like he said we will have to decide for ourselves if we are going to be friends him or not." After hearing this, the other three seemed to relax somewhat though Machias couldn't resist needling Jusis about his scepticism attitude, "Seems like Albarea here is far too mistrusting towards other people then."
What followed was a back and forth between these two but without the usual heat these arguments had before the field study, rolling their eyes at them the other three said goodbye and left for their clubs while Rean made his way into town. A few minutes later he was standing inside Micht's Pawn shop waiting for the owner to appear from the backroom, he didn't have to wait for long and Micht greeted him with his usual gruff voice, "You know the rules kid. If want to buy or pawn something then get a move on or if you're here for some window-shopping, then go somewhere else. I don't have all day, so what do you want?" Having already expected this since this wasn't the first time that he was dealing with Mitch, he took out a bag filled with sepith mass numbering around five thousand pieces and put it on the table, "I want to buy some information, but it will depend on if you can give me the ones that I want."
Narrowing his eyes at what he was seeing and hearing, the old man tried to play confused, "Does this look like an info shop to you kid? This here is a pawn shop, people come to sell their things or to get rid of things that they don't need and I in return buy and sell them to people who are interested in these things, take your money and leave if you aren't here to buy my actual merchandise." Taking out a newspaper he opened it and started to ignore Rean, "(Seems like Fie didn't have time to call ahead probably slipped her mind since she got dragged away by Emma.) You forgot to include selling portable bombs to fifteen years old ex-jaegers."
That got his attention putting the newspaper aside he looked at the boy with a scowl on his face, "Who told you that nonsense, you brat? Kids these days will believe everything they hear." Seeing that he still was playing dumb, Rean took out his Arcus Unit and dialled Fie's number who took his call after letting it ring three times, "Fie here."
"Sorry for disturbing you Fie but regarding that recommendation that we talked about yesterday, I have here a stubborn seller who doesn't want to show me his wares without it." Giving his Arcus to Micht who snatched out his outstretched hand, "Goddammit girl, what in Aidioses name are you playing at? What just like that? Hey! I can't believe that damn Sylphid just hung up on me, this is what I get for helping her out?! Damn that Valestein for introducing her to me." Finding the name 'Sylphid' a bit strange he put that aside for the moment and took back his Arcus, "With that done, can we get down to business?"
Adopting a neutral face, the old man looked straight at him and began to explain how this worked, "Look here, kid. The information I deal with isn't cheap and I won't help you with anything too illegal because if I do that Instructor of yours will have my hide. So, what do you want?"
When he learned that his old friends from the East were in the Empire, he thought that they would visit him or visit Ymir to see him but the letter that he got from his parents said that they didn't appear anywhere Ymir, which could mean two things. One, they forgot about him or didn't want to see him at all which was highly likely given what had happened back then or second, they were here in the Empire for Bracer work which threw up some rather interesting questions, like what kind of request would take four C-ranked Bracers from the middle of the eastern side of the continent straight to the opposite side, especially to an Empire who had shut down the guild for over two years.
Of course, another possibility was that they were simply travelling through the Empire and their destination was another country, everything was possible, but he wanted to be sure that if they didn't want to see him, he would respect that and understand it, heck he would even recommend it. But if they need help here in Erebonia he owed to them after all they have done for him to at least offer them his help, if they would accept it was another story, but he would try at the very least.
Getting his thoughts in order, Rean looked at the waiting man, "Around five weeks ago four bracers arrived in the Empire, and they stayed in Celdic for a few days and left then in the direction of Heimdallr. What I want to know is where they are and what they are doing here in Erebonia." Absorbing that information Micht thought for a moment before opening his mouth, "These four bracers wouldn't happen to be B-ranked and from the eastern part of the continent? "
(B Rank? Could be, it has been after all over four years since I last saw them and knowing them, they should have been working hard on their training and on their work at the guild.) Seems like you heard about them, what can you tell me?" Pushing the bag full of sepith mass in front of the broker he waited for his answer though Mitch didn't take the bag, "Not much. I know that they arrived in Erebonia some weeks ago, meet up with one of the still operating bracers in the countryside and are apparently looking for something or someone. They didn't give the local bracer much about their mission just asked some question about the Empire and so on, last I heard they were travelling all over the country."
(Looking for something or someone? It couldn't be me; they know where I live.) Nothing else?"
"Regarding these four, no. But I have perhaps some other information that could be related or not to them, interested in hearing about it?" Knowing where he was going with this Rean took a handful of sepith out of the bag and put it on the table, appreciating his quick understanding Mitch went on after putting these sepith away, "Remember I am not sure if this has something to do with those four or not but for the last few weeks a lot of operatives from the East have been coming to the western part of the continent. At the beginning they were spread throughout the various countries but now they have started to concentrate on three specific countries Erebonia, Crossbell and Liberl why I have no idea, it isn't like this three have anything in common at all."
(True there isn't really a common point between these three, geographically and culturally they have nothing big in common. What about people?) Suddenly Rean did notice a similarity between these countries, but it was really an farfetched one, which made him hesitate to say it out loud, noticing that the kid had perhaps got some idea, Micht spoke to him, "Judging from the look on your face you seems to have come up with something, let's hear it kid. If it is something plausible, I will give you a discount depending on what it is."
"From my point of view there is just one common point they have and given that these operatives are from the East there is perhaps some possibility to it." Getting impatient the old man tried to get Rean to spit it out quickly, "Come on, we don't have all day." Rolling his eyes at the impatient man, told him his idea, "Each country has a disciple of the Eight Leaves One Blade School living in it." Eyes wide open Micht slapped the table, "You are right! Cassius Bright in Liberl, Arios Maclaine in Crossbell and you here in the Empire, could it be that what they are searching for has something with the Eight Leaves? Or perhaps they are looking for the Sword Hermit himself?" Mitch continued muttering some possibilities to himself, "(Given his job I am not surprised that he knows that I belong to the Eight Leaves, but it still is a farfetched idea. Anyway, thinking about this won't solve the mystery and I am not even sure that these operatives have anything to do with them.)
Rean let Micht pan out his theories until he admitted that further speculating wouldn't help at all, "We may have found a common point, but it still doesn't tell us what their purpose is. Ok kid, you may have stumbled upon something but until it is confirmed you won't get to see your discount. Is there something else that you need?" Shaking his head Rean pushed the bag toward him, "Keep an ear out if you get any more information regarding the four bracers or if what these operatives are looking for is the same thing or person as they. This bag should be enough as a payment for now if you got more information that is credible than you will get another one like this, you know where to find me and not a word to anyone not to Fie or even Instructor Sara this here is a private matter, and these should be enough to buy your silence. Goodbye, Mitch."
Quickly putting the bag away, Mitch looked at the departing Rean, "Can you tell me why are looking for these four at least?" Turning around Rean just shrugged his shoulders, "We were friends when I was in the East and since they are here in the Empire, I would like to help them out if I can. To repay their help from back then, that is all." Done with that he left the store leaving Micht to think about he had just learned, though he knew that the kid wasn't telling him everything, (Got to say this wasn't how I thought my day would go when I woke up this morning better give Toby an heads up that someone is looking for these four besides the Intelligence Division and since the kid asked for it I won't mention him by name. I will just say that someone is asking around.)
June the 15 of the Septian Year 1204
The last two weeks flow by quickly thanks to the fast-approaching midterms, it seemed like every student was kicked into high gear in regard to their studies, a lot of them could now be seen regularly at the library studying and thanks to the last week of rainy days most outdoor clubs were forced to cancel their practice giving their members even more time to prepare. Inside the classroom of Class VII, their homeroom teacher gave them one last 'pep talk', "Tomorrow is the start of your long-awaited midterm exams, and I won't be able to help you much since I am not good with all these papers and circling answers, so if you care about getting the right answers then I would suggest going to look for another instructor. But I am administering some of your test, so I will be cheering you on from the side lines. Make me proud, Class VII!" Finishing that 'pep talk' with a wink, Sara looked at her sweat dropping students with a grin until Alisa shoot her annoyed glare, "Sometimes I lie awake at night and wonder how in Adioses name you became our teacher. As I recall, won't Instructor Heinrich give you a lecture if our performance isn't up to par?"
"Ooooh, I am not too worried about that, most of you tend to get pretty high grades anyway, besides unless Class VII gets the first spot on the class rankings, I will get a lecture either way. The only difference will be on the length of said lecture and that will depend on your results, so please for my sake do your best!" Giving them her best puppy eyes look, which was totally ignored by everyone in class, Sara turned semi-serious as she went on, "Remember, the results will be posted next Wednesday and your scores will be posted by rank, so you can see how you compare to the other classes in your year."
Laying his head on his desk, Elliot bemoaned his upcoming fate, 'The sooner this week is over, the better." Some of the others shared his opinion while others couldn't wait to get started on these exams, watching her students talking with each other Sara gave them a few moments before dropping another bomb on them, "They are going to stick the average score for each class up there on the board too."
That put a stop to the talking, understanding instantly on why the school would do that Jusis explained the motif behind that, "I suppose the intent is to furnish us with motivation in the form of class bragging rights, which I assume will appeal to a certain class more than the others." Knowing which class, he was talking about, the others couldn't help but agree with him, the rest of the class was spent on reminding everyone on the schedule of the exams and so on, done with that Sara let them go for the rest of the day to use their remaining time on how they saw fit.
The students stayed in the classroom to talk with each some more about their tests during which they decided that perhaps one last study session wouldn't be a bad idea, the class broke up in smaller groups of two so that each member could focus on what they felt was their weakest subject with someone that was better than them at it, well that was the case with the boys, the girls decided to have one together until Laura shoot them down, "…I appreciate your invitation, but I will have to pass this time. There is a subject that I need to review in private; I will see you all later at the dorm." And with a small bow Laura left her classmates behind, which prompted the rest to follow suite leaving Rean and Alisa behind.
"Maybe it was my imagination, but I could have sworn that Laura glanced at Fie before rejecting your study offer…" leaving the sentence unfinished, he looked at Alisa who released a sigh upon hearing that, "No, it wasn't your imagination since we came back from the field study two weeks ago, there has been some weird tension between them and neither I nor Emma know why. I am just glad that it isn't like it was between Jusis and Machias, if that was the case, I would go crazy."
Imagining a scene like that made Rean chuckle, though he suppressed it quickly when he saw that Alisa wasn't amused, "I wouldn't worry about that, these two are far too different from Machias and Jusis to argue like that, it is more likely to end in a fight between them to vent whatever their problem is." Crossing her arms the archer sends him another unamused look, "Pray tell, how that would be better?"
"We just have to make sure that they don't kill each other and patch them up after they are done. Anyway, what are your plans for now? Are you going with Emma and Fie to study or will you go look for Laura and study with her?"
"I think I will go find Laura. Fie has Emma to help her study and perhaps I can help Laura take her mind away from whatever is her problem with Fie. What about you? Are you going to join the others or are you going to look for people to play gopher for?" Sending Alisa, a small smile at that question, Rean quipped back at her, "I will never get you to stop calling me a gopher, will I? I am planning on going to the library look up some details and perhaps spend an hour or so there to brush up on some subjects, besides even I know that right now the exams have a higher priority compared to playing helper to the townspeople."
Now it was Alisa's turn to grin at him though hers was far more mischievous compared to his, "Ohh, I would applaud you for finally putting yourself first, if Angelica hadn't told me that Student Council President Herschel had told everyone in town to leave you alone with their requests a week before exams and during it." That made him groan out loud since he hadn't expected that she knew about that, Rean himself had only found about that when went to Towa to help her with work five days ago, ignoring the smug look from her, Rean took his bag and stood up, "How about I help you out with finding Laura before going to the library?"
"No need for that, I think I know where she went." Alisa went to get her bag too and walked with Rean until they reached the main entrance where they parted ways for now, while walking towards the library Rean remembered that he still had enough sepith left to unlock the remaining slots in his Arcus Unit, so he made a slight detour to the Engineering Club where he found Crow and George sitting there, after making his request to the engineer, he spend some time talking with Crow who, unexpectedly, explained to him the proper steps for CPR that may come up in Instructor Beatrix questions. After getting his Arcus back he finally made it to the library where he saw Elliot and Machias sitting together, waving at them he made his way to the second floor to get some books to brush up his knowledge in the areas he knew that he was lacking.
Sometime later after skimming through the last book, Rean left the library though he spent some time with his classmates helping them with asking some questions and after listening to an impromptu lecture from Instructor Thomas concerning the War of the Lions, he decided that he should he see how his other friends are doing, Rean made a tour through the campus finding nearly everyone and listening to them refreshed and strengthen some of his knowledge, the only two that he didn't find were Alisa and Laura. Though he had a suspicion where they could be since only one building remained where he hadn't looked for them, was the gymnasium. So, it was like that he found the duo sitting on the second floor of the gym brushing up on their art knowledge, it didn't take long before he offered the girls his help in quizzing them. A short while later the trio stopped their studies with Laura going for a swim to relax for the rest of the day, leaving Alisa and Rean to return to the dormitory alone.
The duo had each one an umbrella to protect them from the rain, "Now that I think about it has been a while since the two of us have walked back to the dorms together, hasn't it?" Taking a moment to think about Alisa's question, Rean found that she was right, "Yeah, thanks to studying for the exams we haven't had much time to hang out together like this. Well, at least I got something good about leaving early today." Narrowing her eyes at that remark, the archer fought back the heat that was beginning to gather on her cheeks, "I already suspected it but there is really no filter between your mouth and your brain is there?"
Giving her a cheeky smile, Rean she quipped back a simple, "Nah. No need for that between friends and I can confirm that filter comment since Elise has said the same thing to me many times over the years." Remembering the black-haired girl, that she had meet two years ago in Roer and what she had told her about her big brother caused her to sigh, "She must have the patience of a saint to put up with you for so many years. Anyway, how do you think you will do on your exams?"
"No idea, I did my best to prepare for them and now we just have to see how it goes. I wish I was as smart as you. Back when we took the entrance exams, in Class VII only Emma and Machias scored higher than you, right?"
"Jusis, scored a bit higher than me too. Back in Roer, I usually came in near the top in exams but here in the academy, it isn't easy to remain in the top five. I guess that goes to show that Erebonia has no shortage of smart people."
"Still, you shouldn't sell yourself short, coming out on top in a city that size is still pretty impressive." Rolling her eyes at that Alisa couldn't help but smirk at him, "Don't worry compared to you, it is pretty much impossible to sell myself short, as long you are around to sell yourself even shorter." The walked the rest of the way back while bantering with each other, thanks to having learned more about Alisa over the last two months, Rean was able to spot the slight hesitation in her eyes, thinking that perhaps she wanted to talk to him about something but didn't know where to start, he decided to offer her some refreshments, "How about I prepare some tea and snacks for us, after studying so much we deserve a little treat, how does apricot jam with toast sound?"
Thinking that his offer was perhaps a good way to start the conversation that she had been dreading for some time, Alisa gave him a nod as an answer, a few minutes later the two of them sat in the kitchen drinking earl grey tea in silence, (Ok Alisa you have been preparing for this for weeks now, just start talking and tell him your last name…but perhaps I should wait till exams are done, I don't want to distract him with this. Arrgh! I have been avoiding this for a long time now and it is enough, today I will tell him!)
Calmly sipping his tea, Rean took in the various emotions that appeared on the Alisa's face while she was thinking about something, he had already learned a long time ago that it wasn't a good idea to rush people who were hesitating to speak, so he gave her enough time to decided whatever she wanted to talk or not, though he wasn't prepared for the sudden determination that had appeared on her face or the way she yelled, "Reinford!" Blinking once, the boy couldn't understand why she had suddenly blurred out the name of the most powerful company in the empire, his confusion was apparently visible on his face because Alisa took a deep breath to calm her nerves and told him about her full name for the first time while looking directly in his eyes, "Alisa Reinford, that is my name."
The archer had expected to see his disgust or disdain or even greed for having told him that she was part of the Reinford family, but what she hadn't expected was that Rean besides some surprise didn't show any of the negative emotion that she was waiting for, growing up besides some very few people like Angelica or Yuuna people had always looked at her with either one of those emotions be they adults or children.
Seeing the fear deep inside Alisa's eyes, Rean knew that he had to treat carefully here since he didn't want to hurt her with some careless words, giving the girl sitting before him a genuine smile, he put his thoughts out in the open, "Thanks for telling me, Alisa. Seeing how you struggled to tell me, makes it obvious that it wasn't easy for you to reveal that name. I have already told you before, that I only look at the people themselves and not at their names or ranks. You don't have to worry that just because I now know that your last name is Reinford that I will start treating you differently, you are still the same old Alisa to me."
The smile and soft tone of his voice nearly caused Alisa to tear up but she held them back with pure willpower, after spending more time with him here in Trista, she was sure that he wouldn't mind that her last name was synonymous with money or the merchant of death but somewhere in the back of her mind was always the small fear, that he would be like the others just seeing the Reinford name or perhaps trying to use her for his benefits, "Thank you, Rean. Really, thank you!"
"You are welcome, Alisa. I will always be your friend, no matter what happens as long you want me to." Reaching over he gave her hand a quick squeeze and stood up to get some more tea for them, causing him to miss how the girl blushed a deep red thanks to his action, while glaring at his back. (I swear he has no concept on how his actions come across and what they could imply. Good thing that I know that he is far too dense with these types of things if not I could misinterpret his gestures for something else.)
Thinking up to this point, Alisa suddenly thought that perhaps another girl would misunderstand his actions and… Following that line of thought made her blush die down and making her grip the teacup in her hand so strongly that it cracked slightly. Hearing that sound caused her to snap out of it and Rean to turn around, thankfully her blush had already disappeared when he returned to the table with a new pot of tea and a new cup for her. "Here, Alisa. Are you going to tell the others your last name too?"
Gathering her thoughts, pushing the sudden image of Rean with another girl away and the sudden appearance of a feeling that she couldn't descript, she would find out later that it was called jealousy, Alisa cleared her throat before she answered him, "I will but not today. After the exams are done, we have a free day coming up and when we gather for breakfast, I will tell them. I told you first because you have known me the longest out of our class and it didn't seem right to me, to tell you at the same time as the others." Done with pouring her tea, Rean gave her another soft smile and bowed his head slightly, "I am honoured that you think so highly of me, Alisa. Do you mind if I ask you a quick question?" Getting a nod as a response he went on, "Perhaps it won't come up on the exams, but can you explain to me what role the Reinford company played during the renaissance?"
From all the possible questions that she had expected him to ask, that was one that she hadn't thought of and judging by the grin on his face, he had done it on purpose just to show her that he meant what he said about not going to treating her differently, unknown to her she was also sporting a grin, "Well now Schwarzer, are you trying to get some extra points on the history test with some behind the scene knowledge?" The rest of their evening was spent with them talking and joking with each other while relaxing, when the others returned to the dorms anyone could see that the archer was genuinely happy about something, though they couldn't tell about what exactly, they knew that it probably had something to do with a certain black-haired swordsman even if said person denied it, the slight red on her face told them another story.
The following week was hell for the students the moment they set foot in the classroom was the beginning of their exams, question after question, quickly writing their answers as fast they could and the moment, they set down their pen was the start for the next exam and after they were done for the day, they rushed back to the dorms or library to prepare for the next day.
This went for four days, leaving even the likes of test lover Machias exhausted, "Congratulations on making it through this hard time! And what do you know, it looks like the rain ended right along with your exams. Clearly this is the Goddess way of rewarding you all for your hard work." Looking at her students who were too tired to even respond to her quips, Sara decided to reward them a bit, "Normally we would have ourselves a revision on your exams, but your always dependable Instructor managed to get you all out of it, so enjoy the rest of the day to unwind and blow all that pent-up exam stress away! They will post the results next Wednesday until then you all should take it easy but don't relax too much because you have got your next practical exam also on the same day."
The first part managed to raise their spirits a bit but the second one caused groans to sound in the classroom, prompting Jusis to complain about that, "You could stand to be a little more considerate with the timing of your announcements." Grinning at that Sara started to gather her things to leave when she remembered that she hadn't told her students something, "By the way, I have got some business to take care out of town, after we are done here. I won't be back until tomorrow evening if all goes well, so don't like….. burn the dorms down while I am gone or anything." Winking at that Sara enjoyed the looks of annoyance that she was getting before she suddenly turned dead serious, catching her students off guard with the sudden change, "To be clear under no circumstance and I mean UNDER NO CIRCUSTANCE are you allow to touch my beers, are we understood?! I know exactly how many there and how much there is in them, when I get back the amount better be the same or else….!"
Leaving the threat unfinished her aura started coming down on them waking even the most exhausted ones from their groggy state when they sensed a threat to their lives. Getting over their initial surprise the students swore to her that they wouldn't even dream of touching her stash, happy with that Sara released them for the day while skipping out of the classroom humming some tune. Outside Class VII minus Gaius, Laura and Fie made their way back to the dormitory to enjoy the rest of their free afternoon, feeling the fresh air outside of the classroom made Elliot spread his arms to embrace his new freedom, "Now that the exams are over, I feel free as a bird and I will keep on soaring, at least until the results come back…."
The others tried to distract him from that dreadful thought with shifting the conversation to their now absent instructor with Alisa taking the lead, "What do you think that was all about with Instructor Sara? She will gone for a full day and won't be back until tomorrow night….. It is almost as if…." Picking up on where she was going with this Emma finished her sentence while lightly blushing, "She is going to meet her secret lover?!"
But that idea was quickly shoot down by the boys, "Impossible, the empire hasn't yet turned out a man desperate enough to woo that alcoholic typhoon." Even Machias had no choice but to agree with his counterpart on that topic, "You have a point, I can't deny she's got the looks to snare a man but with that personality and that lifestyle….I just can't see that happening no matter the circumstances." Chuckling at their remarks Rean couldn't help but add his own, "Haha, you guys are terrible, but I totally agree, though."
"Ouch. Not surprised to hear that from you, Rean. She always seems to dump most work on you." Using Elliot's agreement as an opening Alisa tried to rib on Rean too, "Well, that is what he deserves if can't just say simply no to her absurd requests, am I right Rean?" Rolling his eyes at her the boy in questions just ignored her and directed the conversation away from that topic, "Since tomorrow is a free day, that means we must do an investigation inside the old schoolhouse. Are you guys sure that you all want to come with me, I mean you all have clubs to attend to, no?"
Seeing where he was going with this the rest shared a quick look with each other before leaving to Jusis to answer his question, "Of course, we will come with you. The request was made for Class VII as a whole and I am rather curious to see first-hand what the next floor has to offer; especially what kind of monster boss is waiting at the end." Hearing on how the others were agreeing with Jusis, Rean knew that it was already a lost battle to try and convince them to just enjoy their free day, arriving at the doors of their dorm, Elliot mentioned a certain detail to Rean, "Come to think of it, does anyone have any idea where Gaius ran off to? He mentioned that the principal wanted to have a word with him, do you think he went to see him?"
"Probably, I do wonder what that is all about. I am sure that he hasn't gotten in any trouble or anything like that given that it is Gaius we are talking about. Fie and Laura also left us and went to their clubs."
"Yeah, I was kind of hoping we could all walk back to the dorms together for once." Alisa's sentiment was shared by Emma, taking advantage that these two weren't here at the moment Rean decided to talk with his friends about something that they all had probably noticed, "At the beginning I was hoping that it was my imagination but lately it is clear as day that there is some tension between these two or am I just greatly mistaken?" Like he had expected the others had noticed it too, "It seems to have started around the beginning of the month which was right after we came back from our field study, and I can think of only one thing on why they would be like that. Did anyone else noticed how Laura reacted to Fie revelation about being an ex-jaeger?"
Supporting Emma's theory was Machias, "When that subject came up, I couldn't help but notice Laura had a rather unpleasant expression. It flashed across her face for only a moment, though. At that time, I just thought that I had imagined it but given recent events I am sure that it did happen, but I can't fathom why that would be a reason for Laura to be upset." The others fell silence thinking up theories on that subject but not coming with anything concrete till Jusis put an end to their speculations, "We all have certain things we would rather keep to ourselves, perhaps there is a reason on why Laura reacted like that that we don't know yet. We even have a member of this very class who remains tight-lipped about her own family after all, though I am certain that she has at least told a certain someone that particular secret of hers."
Knowing who he was talking about the others concentrated their eyes on both Alisa and Rean, "Do you really have to drag me into this?! And for your information I was going tell the rest of you about my family tomorrow during breakfast." Bowing his head as an apology, Jusis grinned at her, "My apologies, I meant no offense. Still, it seems like I was right that Rean was let in on that secret earlier than the rest of us." Recalling on how happy the archer had been before the start of their exams, the others knew when Rean had learned of her last name, Emma and Elliot grins were mischievous enough to send chills down her spine, making Alisa try to come up with some excuse. Feeling a headache coming on when he saw this, Rean tried to do the same, but it was at that moment that he noticed something else, "Guys, just to be sure. Instructor Sara already left Trista, Gaius is with the principal and Laura and Fie are also still on campus or am I wrong?"
Caught by surprise at the sudden question, Elliot was going to tease him for trying to change the subject when he and everybody else noticed the serious look on his face and that his hand was slowly reaching for his tachi, suddenly feeling nervous Elliot looked in the same direction as Rean toward the dormitory, "Yes, I think so. Why are you asking?"
Gripping the handle of his sword lightly Rean prepared to draw it immediately in case his suspicions were right, "If that is the case, then I have no idea whose presences I am sensing inside our dormitory right now and there are even two of them." The rest followed suit and started reaching for their weapons when a pleasant-sounding voice came from the direction of the closed door, "Your senses are sharp as ever, Master Rean!" The door opened to reveal two women walking out of the house in their direction, "I told you Sharon, it is pretty much impossible to sneak up on my son, his training made planning surprise parties pretty much futile. The rest of the students didn't know who these two women were but two of their members knew exactly who they were which they shouted out at the same time, "Sharon!/Mom!"
Standing inside before Class VII were Alisa's maid Sharon Kreuger and Rean's mother Lucia Schwarzer, both grinning at the stunned faces they were seeing before them.
