Chapter Text
Aurelia
Red clouds billowed from the remnants of Karel Imperial Villa. Whatever strange egg-like structure had been there slowly started to dissolve, and even from the Pantagruel’s fueling spot at the airport, Aurelia could see flashes of colored lights flee from the structure. Red, gold, blue, green, silver, gray…and one tinier light coming her way.
“All hands, prepare for liftoff!” Aurelia said without turning around, and the Weissland Army sprung to action. Crates were loaded onto the airship, routes were charted, and sweat beaded down brows. Aurelia did not know when the next time she would see her students would be, but as the light approached, she thought.
Juna Crawford. She had grown quite well in the few months at school, rapidly ascending to a leadership role and taking on responsibilities. “Captain Crawford” did have a nice ring to it.
Kurt Vander. His dual-wielding techniques had also grown and developed under his teacher’s watchful eye, and he had positioned himself neatly as Juna’s second-in-command. He had all of his father’s positive attributes with his mother’s kindness - a good combination.
Altina Orion. According to the intelligence Aurelia had received, it was likely that she would survive. While the girl hadn’t grown physically over the last few months, she had progressed mentally and emotionally, becoming a real person.
Ash Carbide. Currently in Weissland custody to keep him out of harm’s way. Aurelia didn’t know what caused him to shoot the Emperor, but there was probably another strange magic reason. He, too, had changed for the better.
Rean Osborne. What an odd man. His connections and bonds had spread throughout Leeves like an avalanche, bringing a sense of joy that was washed away by the oncoming evils. He’d need all his strength - and his mother, probably - to fix things.
And lastly, her liege. Musse Egret. But that name would soon be forgotten. Soon, Duchess Mildine Juzelith De Cayenne would emerge onto the scene and take command to slay the many-headed snake. But she had been changed by her classes.
“Aurelia, we’re almost ready to go,” Vita said, approaching her side.
“Ah, Miss Witch. I’m grateful to have you on our side,” Aurelia tipped her head slightly. “You said earlier our lady was arriving by magic?”
“Yes, I lent her one of Grianos’ feathers and taught her the warp spell,” Vita fussed with her hair. “I also observed the Hamel orphan, there’s no more foul presence. He should be fine moving forward.”
“And the rest of Thors?”
“Scattered, from what I can tell,” Vita huffed a breath. “Herschel ordered the students to flee, and let herself get captured so that none of her charges would be hurt. Orlando’s gone, the other bracers have disappeared into the winds, but Giliath is escorting Princess Alfin and Lady Elise to a secure location.”
“Hm.”
“You’re worried.”
“I taught them well,” Aurelia crossed her arms firmly and straightened up as the pulse of light slammed into the ground, revealing a teenage girl. “Ah, Your Grace. Welcome to the Pantagruel.”
“Thank you, General. Vita.” Musse greeted the two older women. “Class VII managed to completely escape, but they lost track of the Sword and Testa-Rossa. I think there will be a few weeks of skirmishes before either Class VII or the Chancellor’s forces fully mobilize. In that time, we have to find where the Vermillion Knight ‘lands’, and protect the people of this nation. Do I have your support?”
“For now and for always, Your Grace,” Aurelia sketched a bow.
“We stand by your side,” Vita curtsied. “Shall we depart?”
“Yes. We shall.” Musse took a deep breath and headed into the Pantagruel, Aurelia and Vita on her heels. Lady Mildine approached the intercom and cleared her throat. “Attention, all hands. I am Mildine Juzelith De Cayenne, Duchess of Lamarre. If you continue to ride with us, you will stand against fate, destiny, and death. This will not be an easy path to save our nation, but it is one we must take, no matter the sacrifice. If you so choose to leave, I will not begrudge you.”
There was a pause as no one left.
“I thank you, brave soldiers of Erebonia,” Lady Mildine closed her eyes fondly. “Crew, take us into the skies! All commanding officers, report to the briefing room at 0900 hours tomorrow morning for a full debrief and upcoming orders. Dismissed.” The intercom shut off decisively as Aurelia stared out the window. The sun was setting, its own red light bleeding out beneath the curse’s fell energy. But maybe…just maybe…
Class VII would be able to crush destiny beneath its heels one more time.