Disclaimer: Don't own the Legend of Heroes
Chapter One: VIII of Class VII
The metallic door swung open, and the man entered the office. The figure was a burly man dressed in a set of black combat boots, black combat trousers and a short-sleeved white shirt beneath a golden-buttoned black vest. He closed the ARCUS unit in his hand and then returned it to his belt, looking at the other man seated behind the desk and smiled politely.
"It's been a while, hasn't it, Principal Vandyck?" The man's tone is a little cheeky, as if he'd known the other for a very long time and the very thought of this man as a principal amused him. Principal Vandyck wears a black suit with golden tassels on the shoulders. The suit itself is trimmed with silver and golden patterns, and he wears a red tie cord around his neck inlaid with a turquoise gem.
"It has been a while indeed, how can I help you Theo?"
The man now indicated to be named Theo remained silent for a moment, as if considering his words very carefully, "I found one. One of the Xanadu children."
The Principal's eyes narrowed, and a subtle tension rippled through his posture, though he quickly masked it with a neutral expression. He leaned forward slightly, resting his elbows on the desk and steepling his fingers.
"Really?" Vandyck said, his voice calm but with an edge of anticipation. "And where exactly did you find this... child?"
Theo's smile widened, and he pulled a small, holo-projector from his pocket. With a flick of his wrist, a flickering image of a young man appeared, his face partially obscured by a hood.
"He's been living under the radar," Theo explained, his tone betraying a hint of admiration. "In a small, isolated town—completely off the grid. Clever, really. But not clever enough."
"And do you have any clues on how this child managed to escape?"
"A few, but nothing to fully lower my suspicion. At the very least I'm thinking it safer to keep him close by in case he tries anything. Perhaps there could be a spot for him at Thor's this year? Given the kind of kids the Project churned out he could potentially be an incredible asset."
"A student here? Are you sure that's a good idea? I'm sure he's going to find it difficult to relate to people his own age. However, you may be right about keeping him close, so I guess what my next question will be is this, what's your plan now?"
Theo's expression turned more serious, the casual demeanor slipping away. "I need resources. Safe transport. I want to make sure she's brought in without any complications. I don't want this to turn into a… media circus. For the school's sake and for his."
Vandyck nodded slowly, processing the request. "I'll arrange everything. But let's be clear—this isn't just about bringing him in. We need to ensure he's brought in discreetly and that he's... integrated smoothly into our operations. The last thing we need is any sort of... public attention."
As Vandyck reached for a hidden compartment in his desk, pulling out a secure comm device, he glanced back at Theo. "You've done well, Theo. I'll make the necessary arrangements. But remember, this operation needs to be flawless. Any missteps, and we might lose more than just a victim of the project."
Theo's smile returned, this time more enigmatic. "Understood. I'll be in touch once everything's set."
With that, Theo turned and walked towards the door, his boots making a rhythmic clunk against the polished floor. As the door swung shut behind him, Vandyck's face remained etched in contemplation, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the desk. The room fell into a thoughtful silence, the weight of the task at hand settling heavily in the air.
The door clicked shut behind Theo, leaving Principal Vandyck alone in the room. For a moment, Vandyck stared at the holo-projector still displaying the image of the young man. He ran a hand through his hair, then turned his attention to the secure comm device.
He tapped a few commands into the device, sending a series of encrypted messages to various contacts. The air in the office seemed to grow thicker with each passing second, the stakes of the situation sinking in.
As Vandyck worked, his mind raced through the potential scenarios that could arise from the retrieval operation. The boy, whoever she was, must have been important if Theo had been tasked with finding her. The project, whatever it entailed, was clearly of significant interest to those in charge. For the guild to directly involve themselves in a matter of this nature meant there was at least a significant level of danger to the general populace involved and this only raises further questions about the nature of what the Project was and what the experiments that had been carried out in its name entailed.
Vandyck also knew something of great importance. He wouldn't be able to place this boy in one of the normal classes. He highly doubted the nobles would accept anyone with uncertain heritage, and he highly doubted that the children of commoners would treat someone with a history of assassinations, especially one of such a young age with kindness either.
He had but one option he could make here. Vandyck stood from behind his desk and made his way toward the window, staring out into the world intensely. Yes, that was the place he would put him. Both for his own and the sake of his classmates.
The recently established class he'd placed in the care of Sara Valestein.
[x][x][x]
"Can't I just ride the train like a normal student?" The young man asked. Using a single finger, he pulled the frames of his aviator sunglasses down so that he could look at Theo over them, "I'm pretty sure Xanadu kept me well hidden enough to make all this unnecessary."
Theo raised an eyebrow, trying to keep his tone light. "You might be well-hidden, but the world doesn't always follow Xanadu's script. Plus, the last thing we need is for you to attract attention."
The young man sighed, adjusting his sunglasses back into place. "Fine, but this whole 'disguised' thing feels like overkill. I just want to get through this like anyone else."
Theo gave a reassuring smile. "Sometimes a little extra caution goes a long way. Trust me, this is just a temporary measure. Once we're clear, you'll be able to ride trains and live like a normal student Kyutaro—just not yet."
Theo and Kyutaro continued their journey through the winding, tree-lined roads leading to Thors Military Academy. Kyutaro slumped in his seat, clearly disgruntled but resigned to the situation. Sensing his discomfort, Theo decided to address it.
"So, how are you feeling about starting at Thors?" Theo asked, glancing over at him. "Nervous? Excited?"
Kyutaro tilted his head back, staring at the roof of the car. "I'm sure it'll be an experience. But right now, I'm more focused on how much of a spectacle this is. Couldn't we have just blended in with the crowd?"
Theo shook his head. "It's not about blending in; it's about avoiding trouble. We don't want to draw unnecessary attention. Especially considering your... unique background."
Kyutaro raised an eyebrow, "You mean my past as an assassin?"
"Exactly," Theo said, nodding. "You've got skills that aren't exactly standard for a student here. So, while I know you're used to handling things in a very direct way, try to keep a lower profile in combat. Thors has its own methods and expectations, and we don't need any added complications."
Kyutaro sighed, clearly trying to reconcile his instincts with the new reality. "Got it. No going full assassin mode. But I'm not sure how I'll fit in if I hold back."
Theo gave a reassuring smile. "It's not about holding back; it's about adapting. Use your skills wisely, and you'll find your place. You don't need to prove anything with every action."
As they approached the entrance of Thors Military Academy, Kyutaro's eyes widened at the sight of the impressive architecture and sprawling campus. Theo noticed his reaction and chuckled.
"First impressions can be overwhelming," Theo said. "Just remember, it's about integrating into the system and proving yourself in their way."
With a final deep breath, Kyutaro stepped out of the car, his demeanor shifting from irritation to a mix of anticipation and resolve. "Alright, Theo. Let's get this over with."
Theo parked the car and turned to face him with a supportive nod. "You're not alone in this. Many students are eager to make their mark. Just keep your skills in check and show them what you're capable of in a way that fits in."
Kyutaro approached the gates of Thors Military Academy, his heart pounding with a blend of excitement and cautious determination. As Kyutaro prepared to exit the car, Theo turned to him with a thoughtful expression.
"Alright, Kyutaro," Theo said, his tone warm but earnest. "You've got this. Remember, the academy's a place for new beginnings and learning. Just keep your head up and your skills sharp, but don't let your past define how you fit in. You're here to make a new start, so make the most of it."
Kyutaro gave a small nod, his resolve solidifying. Theo continued, his smile turning a bit more personal.
"If you ever need anything or just want to talk, you know how to contact me. And try to enjoy it, alright? It's not just about fitting in; it's about finding your place in the world outside Xanadu."
Kyutaro managed a small smile in return. "Thanks, Theo. I'll keep that in mind."
Theo gave a reassuring pat on Kyutaro's shoulder. "Good luck, Kyutaro. You'll do great. Now go on or you'll be late."
With that, Kyutaro stepped out of the car and took a deep breath, ready to face his new chapter. Theo watched him walk towards the academy gates, his expression a mix of encouragement and pride.
Feeling a small pang of sadness at the sudden reality of their parting, Kyutaro turned and looked back toward the head poking out the window of the military vehicle. His stomach was a mixture of pride, nerves, joy, excitement, trepidation, and the melancholy of parting. Over the past few months, Theo had become an elder brother of sorts to him, and while Kyutaro was eager to begin this new chapter of his life, he wished he had been able to spend more time with Theo.
Still, Kyutaro understood why they had to part ways. Theo was on a critical mission to track down the other children Xanadu had experimented on, individuals who had been transformed into monsters like Kyutaro once was. If he truly wanted to move beyond his past as Xanadu Assassin Designation VIII and embrace his new identity as Kyutaro Kaze, he needed to learn to navigate it on his own.
With a final wave, Theo's vehicle pulled away, and Kyutaro turned back towards the imposing gates of Thors Military Academy. The grandeur of the academy loomed before him, a symbol of both the challenges and opportunities that awaited. Kyutaro took a deep breath, steeling himself for the days ahead.
As he walked through the gates, he was greeted by the sight of two figures approaching. A diminutive young woman with her warm smile and organized demeanor, and a large young man with an air of authority seemed to be awaiting the new arrivals.
"Welcome to Thors Military Academy!" the young woman said, "You arrived with Theo, which must make you Kyutaro Kaze, correct?"
"Yes, that's me," Kyutaro answered, removing the aviator sunglasses covering his eyes and hooking them on the small v-neck of his white under-shirt. The young woman was wearing a uniform similar to his, but oddly her blazer was emerald green, not ruby red like his own, "It's nice to meet you both. But, how do you know me?"
Towa giggled, "It's a long story, don't sweat the details right now.
George stepped forward, his gaze flicking to the weapon case Kyutaro carried. "Before we go on, we'll need to take that weapon case off your hands. It'll be secured and returned to you as needed, but for the duration of orientation
As George spoke, Kyutaro's hand instinctively tightened around the handle of the weapon case. His grip was firm, as if he could ward off the feeling of vulnerability that threatened to engulf him. The idea of parting with the case, even temporarily, stirred a deep sense of unease. To him, the contents of the case wasn't just a practical item; it was a tangible connection to his past, a security blanket of sorts. The thought of it being out of his sight, locked away and distant, made him feel exposed and uncertain.
He hesitated, his mind racing with thoughts of what the weapon case represented. It was his anchor in a world that was rapidly shifting beneath him. Without it, he felt as though he was unmoored, adrift in an unfamiliar sea. The case was a constant presence in his life, and the notion of it being far away triggered a sense of vulnerability he wasn't accustomed to.
Seeing George's firm but understanding gaze, Kyutaro took a deep breath, forcing himself to release his grip. With a slow, deliberate motion, he handed the case over to George. His movements were careful, almost reluctant, as if he was parting with a piece of himself.
"Thanks," George said, sensing Kyutaro's discomfort he offered a gentle smile, "We should be able to return it to you before long, don't worry."
Kyutaro released a breath he didn't know he was holding, his shoulders releasing the tension inside them almost immediately.
"The entrance ceremony is going to be held in the auditorium. Just head straight back, you can't miss it. Anyway, I hope you enjoy your first day at Thors!"
"We're glad to have you," George added, "We hope these next two years will be a fruitful time for you."
After bidding farewell to George and Towa, Kyutaro began to walk in the direction they'd indicated, making his way over the stoned ground, while also taking the time to absorb the scenery around him. It was mostly of the same aesthetic of the ground in that the main color scheme was grey but there was a certain aura about it that he couldn't quite deny either.
It hadn't been long since the weapon case had been removed from his sight, but Kyutaro had already shoved his hands into his pockets, balling them into fists the moment they were out of sight. He had known in advance that he was going to have his weapons taken away temporarily when he first arrived but unfortunately, it seemed that knowledge wasn't going to make the situation any easier. He would just have to try and manage it the best he could for now.
[x][x][x]
"Now if I may, I'd like to say a few words in closing about this Academy's Illustrious history. Thors Military Academy was founded almost two hundred and twenty years ago," Principal Vandyck began, "Its founder, as I'm sure you're all aware, was none other than the great Emperor Driechels. The very same Emperor who ended the war of the lions and returned prosperity to the Erebonian Empire. Thirty years after becoming Emperor, in the later years of his life, he opened the doors of this institution. It was to be a place where young people like yourselves could learn the art of war. But with the mechanization of the military many of our graduates pursue careers outside of the army. Our mission, however, remains the same. To prepare our students to fulfill Emperor Driechels' famous mandate 'Arise, o' youth and become the foundation of the world. Though much has happened these past two and a quarter centuries the world is still the domain of the young. Yet still the question remains: what qualities must one possess to become its foundation? I hope this credo will serve as a guide and inspiration to you during your two years at this academy. Go forth my students, the world awaits the great things you will one day accomplish."
Applause spread throughout the auditorium from the students present, as they respectfully clapped for the principal's closing speech.
"The foundation of the world, huh?" Kyutaro said aloud, his eyes slipping closed.
A nervous pearl of laughter came from the young man's right, "No pressure, right?"
Another nervous chuckle joined the first on the opposite side of the young man who'd just spoken, "No kidding, though this is Dreichels The Lionheart we're talking about. He didn't earn his nickname by taking the easy road. Guess we've got more to worry about then just passing exams, huh?"
Another laugh from the orange-haired boy, "I guess we do. I'm Elliot Craig, nice to meet'cha."
"Rean Schwarzer. Hey, looks like the three of us are sporting the same school fashion."
At the mention of another, Elliot turned his head round to look at Kyutaro who suddenly felt very nervous for some reason and smiled a little shyly, "Hey there, I'm Kyutaro Kaze. You guys have the red blazers too, huh?"
"Yeah," Elliot agreed with them both, "No idea what the red one's supposed to mean though. Most of the other students are wearing green."
"Except the ones in white," Kyutaro said observantly, "I'm picking they're the nobles."
"Looks that way," Rean agreed, "Though…"
"Hm?" Elliot vocalized.
"Something wrong?" Kyutaro asked Rean.
"Nah, just thinking to myself."
Suddenly, the three boys were interrupted by a voice from the stage, "And that brings us to the close of Thors' two hundred and fifteenth entrance ceremony. Alerted by the sudden sound of the voice, Rean, Kyutaro and Elliot all returned their attention back to the stage where Kyutaro noticed a noble-looking man had taken the place of the principal on stage.
"Next, please proceed to the class designated in your guidebook. There you will go over the school rules, as well as your class' curriculum. That is all. Dismissed!"
"The class designated in our guide-book…I don't remember seeing anything like that," Elliot said, "Did either of you come across it?"
"I can't say I did," Kyutaro admitted. "There wasn't any information about that in mine either," Rean divulged, "I just assumed they'd tell us where to go after the ceremony."
"Alll riiighhht students in red uniforms, if I can have your attention, please?"
The loud, excitable voice once again pulled the boys' conversation to a close and their focus to another. This time, it was a woman with amber eyes and long cerise hair tied up behind her dressed in a yellow and black minidress and brown thigh high boots. She also wears a steel blue overcoat with several white belts which she wears open and loose.
"By now, you're probably all confused. 'Where's my class assignment?', you're probably thinking. That's perfectly understandable – your situation is a little more complicated than the other students' but before I explain I'd like all of you to join me for a special orienteering exercise."
"What!?"
"Did you mean an orientation exercise?"
"Hmmm…"
"Worry not, everything will be made clear soon enough. Now, right this way if you would."
Without another word, the woman turned on heel and walked straight out of the auditorium.
"Erm-" a bespectacled girl said, trying her best to call out with her quietest voice after the departing figure.
"Looks like we'll have to follow her if we want answers," the tall boy slightly behind her vocalized.
"Ugh."
Once the other students had all left, Elliot turned toward Rean and Kyutaro, "What do you think all this is about?" he asked them.
"I have absolutely no idea," Kyutaro shrugged.
"Neither," Rean agreed, "But we're not going to accomplish anything by just standing around here. We should go with her."
"Rean's right," Kyutaro agreed, "We'd better hurry up though, or we're going to be left behind and not know where the rest of them are headed."
—-
And with that, we've reached chapter's end. A lot of people asked me why I started the Xanadu story in daybreak, and my answer is one I can finally reveal. Daybreak is XIII's story. It does cover the end of the ones behind the Xanadu project and focuses a lot on that whole fiasco but it's primarily XIII's story.
The Erebonia/Cold Steel Arc is VIII's story. It will show the struggle of a young man desperately trying to escape his past despite the lure of going back to the people who raised him. It'll cover aspects of Xanadu I won't be able to touch on in my Daybreak story but I'll go further into that as appropriate down the line so I don't spoil anything.
Anyways thanks for reading, see you next chapter.
Next Time: From The Embers