Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Inside a train a black haired boy sat looking out the window as the trees passed, he was wearing black pants, brown boots and a red school blazer; there were other people in the same train wearing the same blazer except theirs was green.

"The Ministry of Railways wishes to thank all passengers for their patronage. This train is bound for Bareahard via Celdic". A voice sounded in the wagon gaining his attention. "The next stop is… Trista. Trista. We will be stopped at Trista for one minute. When disembarking, please ensure no belongings are left behind".

'Almost there'. He thought before looking back outside the window taking in the scenery.

"Excuse me; may I have your attention please?" Someone called out from the front of the wagon. "I need to see your tickets, please have them at hand when I pass for them".

The boy did as told and took out his ticket from one of the pockets in his pants.

"May I see your ticket please?" The attendant asked him.

"Sure" He said at the same time he passed it.

"Rean Schwarzer". The attendant murmured inspecting the ticket. "Judging by the uniform I'm guessing you're enrolling at Thors right?" He asked while handing back the ticket

"That's right". He answered taking his ticket.

"If you don't mind me asking, why is your blazer different than the others?" The attendant asked since he been the only one with a different color was too obvious.

Rean took a quick look around noticing that aside from him no one else was wearing the same color.

"I don't know, maybe it says to which class I belong?" He offered a bit confused now that this was brought to light.

"Oh well, enjoy the rest of your trip".

"Thanks".

Not too long after that the train finally arrived to Trista.

Rean got off while holding his luggage on his left hand, except for a bag slung over his shoulder and made his way out of the station; he noticed that there were some other people sporting the same blazer color than him but it was still a minority compared to the ones wearing green.

'I wonder what that is about' He shrugged and decided to wait till they explain it in the school.

Once he left the station his sight met a park right in front of him a bit further what looked like a gardening shop and other stores at the side.

"Are those lino flowers?" He asked to himself taking in the view. "I've never seen so many all blossoming at once".

'I'll be spending the next two years here, I wonder how long will it take before I think of it as home?' He thought with a small smile. 'But I think I'm going to like it'.

His thoughts were interrupted when something hit him from behind, turning around he saw a girl with blond hair and wearing the same color uniform than him on the ground.

"Sorry about that". Rean immediately said offering her a hand. "Are you okay? I should have picked a better place to take in the scenery".

The girl smiled before taking his hand and he pulled her up.

"Don't worry about it; I should've been paying more attention instead of gawking at the flowers" She said, not looking mad at all.

They talked a bit about the city been pretty when she said.

"Hey, you've got the red uniform too, huh?"

"Yeah, I noticed that there weren't many people wearing the same color in the train". He said. "I thought that maybe it was because I just happened to be in a wagon with only green jackets but even after I left the train I couldn't see many people with them".

"Maybe it means we'll end up being classmates".

"I told the attendant something similar".

"Anyway, I should get going". She said grabbing her case from the ground, having left it there while talking. "I've got a feeling we'll see each other at the entrance ceremony, though". And with those words she walked away.

After she went out of sight Rean realized they didn't exchanged names but shrugged thinking they'll probably run into each other later.

However he did find weird that there were so few people with the same uniforms, maybe he haven't seen them all yet but it seemed that they weren't enough to make a class.

'I wonder what that is about'. He thought taking an orbment out of his pocket. 'This orbment they sent with the uniform is pretty strange too'. He looked at it for a bit before putting it away and starting to make his way to the academy. 'I don't want to be late on my first day after all'.

He stared to walk passing through the park.

'This place seems nice'. As he thought that he heard a voice and looking in its direction he saw a girl with silver hair wearing the same uniform as he, red color and everything, sleeping in one of the benches.

'Well, I can't deny that this seems like a pretty peaceful place but I don't think you should be sleeping in it'. He watched her for a moment, thinking if he should wake her up but before he could decide the silver-haired girl opened her eyes and sat down before stretching with a yawn.

"Umm".

"Guess I better go". Not even bothering to talk to him the girl got up from the bench and walked away at a brisk pace.

'That was a bit weird'. Rean thought watching her walk away. 'I guess I should follow her example and get going though'. He started to walk in the same direction; he could already see the entrance to the academy in the distance but before going there he saw a chapel to his left.

'So there is a chapel here too huh?' He looked between the front entrance and the chapel a few times. 'I still have some time'. With that thought he made his way to the chapel.

After entering he looked around for a bit noticing the size was more or less the same as the one in his home. He walked forward a bit and saw there was someone else there aside from the priest and himself; he was kneeling in the floor while holding his hands together.

'He is wearing red too'. Rean noticed that his uniform was the same as him, except the sleeves on his jacket were white while his were red. 'And if I had to guess I'd say he is from abroad'. While Rean was thinking this the guy got up from his praying stance.

"Sorry. Am I in your way?"

'He is tall'. Rean noticed now that he was standing up. "No, not at all".

"Good, good. If you'll excuse me then…"

Rean moved to give him space to go.

'I guess I'll get in a prayer for the start of the school year before I go'. After giving a quick prayer he left the chapel and once again made his way to the academy.

In the front gate he saw a blue haired girl tied in a ponytail and wearing the red uniform with an elderly butler.

"I shall take my leave here, my lady". The butler said giving her a large case. "I pray you find victory here in both your studies and your training".

"Thank you, Klaus". The girl said taking the case. "I'm leaving everything in your hands while Father is away".

"Understood, my lady".

'She must be the daughter of a noble'. Rean thought looking at both. 'And something tells me not the 'delicate' type of noble'.

When the girl walked away the butler turned around and saw Rean.

"Oh! Please excuse my rudeness, young sir". The butler said addressing Rean. "It truly is a splendid day, is it not? The start of a new chapter in the lives of so many promising youths". He made a bow before continuing. "Allow me to express my sincerest congratulations on your admittance into this fine academic institution".

"Thank you very much". Rean answered with a small bow of his own, with those words the butler walked away.

'He must be a butler… and one that can probably use me to wipe the floor if he felt like to'. He thought noticing his poise. 'Which means that girl is probably from a military family or something like that'. Pushing those thoughts away he continued to make his way to the entrance.

"So this is it…" Rean said to himself when he finally arrived to the front entrance of Thors. He looked around for a bit but was interrupted by the horn of an orbal car, he moved out of the way as the car, or maybe limousine would be a better word, stopped in front of the entrance.

The driver stepped out from the vehicle and made his way to the last door from the opposite side.

"Thank you for your patience, sir" The driver said as he opened the door. "We've arrived at the academy".

"Much obliged". Someone answered inside the car, the person stepped out of the car; he is a blond haired boy also wearing the red uniform and with a regal air.

"Please, if you'll allow me to take your luggage". The driver said with a respectful bow.

"That won't be necessary". The boy answered. "I'd prefer to avoid standing out too much".

"I hate to break it to you but it's a bit late for that". Rean said earning the attention of the two. "You arrived in a limo at the front of the school, something like that draws attention".

The blond haired boy squinted a bit at him before shrugging as if to disregard that comment.

"Regardless, this isn't open for debate". He said addressing his driver. "Take whatever rest you need, then return to Bareahard".

"…As you wish. I shall be departing then, sir". The driver did a bow. "May your time spent in these hallowed halls be all you've hoped for; please take care of yourself". The driver did another bow towards Rean before walking back to the driver's.

The blond haired boy glanced at Rean for a second before walking inside.

'Looks like even Erebonia's upper crust send their children here'. Rean thought watching the orbal limousine drive away. 'Well no point in standing around'.

He had barely made it pass the entrance when someone talked to him.

"Welcome to Thors Military Academy!"

Two people, a boy and a girl moved in front of him, the boy was wearing a jumpsuit and looked like a mechanic, while the girl was petite, wearing a green school uniform and had her hair tied in a ponytail with a blue ribbon.

"You're… let's see… yes, you're the last of them!" The girl said happily. "That'd make you Rean Schwarzer, right?"

"Uh… Yes, that's me. It's a pleasure to meet you". Rean answered. "But… how do you know me?"

"It's a long story". The girl said with a giggle. "Don't sweat the details right now".

Rean looked puzzled but before he could ask anything the boy talked.

"Is that your weapon you've got wrapped up?" Rean looked at him and nodded. "I'll need to hold on to that for the time being".

"Oh, right". Rean said moving to give his weapon. "It mentioned something about that in the guidebook".

"Thanks". The boy said taking it. "We should be able to return it to you before long; you'll hardly even miss it".

"The entrance ceremony is going to be held in the auditorium" The petite girl said. "Just head straight back, you can't miss it".

"Got it". Rean said looking at the auditorium.

"Anyway, I hope you enjoy your first day at Thors!"

"We're glad to have you; I hope these next two years will be a fruitful time for you".

"Thanks". With that Rean made his way to the auditorium.

After a rather long entrance ceremony the principal was about to finish it.

"Now, if I may, I'd like to say a few words in closing about this academy's illustrious history".

The auditorium was full with students, most of them wearing a green uniform some wearing white uniforms to represent their noble status and even less than them were the ones wearing red.

"Thors Military Academy was founded almost 220 years ago". Principal Vandyck started. "Its founder, as I'm sure you're all aware, was none other than the great Emperor Dreichels. 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 lie yourselves could learn the art of war".

"But with the mechanization of the military, many of our graduates now pursue careers outside the army; our mission, however, remains the same: to prepare our students to fulfill Emperor Dreichels' famous mandate". The principal took a breath before saying. "Arise, O youth, and become the foundation of the world". He said louder than when he was giving his speech.

"Though much has happened these past two and a quarter centuries, the world is still the domain of the young. Yet the question still remains, what qualities must one possess to become a part of its foundation?" That question was allowed to linger for several long moments, most likely so that the full weight of such a query could sink in, before the principal finished his speech. "I hope this credo will serve as a guide and an 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."

Everyone gave a round of applause.

'Foundation of the world, huh?' Rean thought after hearing the speech.

"No pressure, right?" He heard someone give a nervous chuckle at his side.

"No kidding". Rean answered to the red haired boy sitting beside him. "Though, this is the Dreichels the Lionheart we're talking about; he didn't earn his nickname by taking the easy road". The red hair nodded in agreement. "Guess we've got more to worry about than just passing exams, huh?"

"Ahaha… I guess we do; I'm Elliot Craig nice to meet'cha".

"Rean Schwarzer". The black haired boy answered. "Hey, looks like we're sporting the same school fashion".

"Yeah, no idea what the red uniform is supposed to mean, though". Elliot said looking a bit puzzled. "Most of the other students are wearing green". Rean gave a quick look around. "Well, except for the ones in the white uniforms; those must be the nobles".

"Looks that way". He agreed. "Though…"

"Something wrong?"

"Nah, just thinking to myself". He answered.

They cut the conversation there when one of the instructors spoke saying that the entrance ceremony was finished and told everyone to proceed to the classes designated in their guidebook.

Almost every student started to leave the auditorium, except for the ones wearing red.

"The class designated in our guidebook?" Elliot asked confused as he and Rean watched the people leave. "I don't remember seeing anything like that".

"Mine didn't say anything about it either". Rean answered. "I just assumed they'd tell us where to go after the ceremony".

"All riiiiight!" Someone said from the direction of the podium. "Students in red uniforms, if I can have your attention, please?"

Said students turned to where the voice came from; they saw a woman with fuchsia hair tied up wearing a yellow cocktail dress, brown high boots and a dark green overcoat.

"By now, you're probably all confused; 'Where's MY class assignment', you're probably thinking". Everyone in red gave some form of agreement or kept listening. "That's perfectly understandable- your situation is a liiittle more complicated than the other students'".

'Why is that?' Rean though but before he could actually ask the woman continued.

"But before I explain, I'd like all of you to join me for a special orienteering exercise".

"What?!" One of the students asked, aside from the red uniform he was wearing glasses and had green hair.

"Did you mean an orientation exercise?" The blond girl Rean met back at the station asked.

The others made some sound of doubt or simply kept staring.

"Worry not; everything will be made clear soon enough!" She started to walk towards the exit. "Now, right this way, if you would".

The students in red stared as she left when the tallest of them spoke.

"Looks like we're gonna have to follow her if we want any answers". Aside from a sigh coming from the blond that came in a limousine there wasn't any other sound as they started to follow.

"What do you think this is all about?" Elliot asked Rean.

"I have no idea, but we're not going to accomplish anything just standing around here". He answered. "We should go with her".

And with those words they followed the rest of the students in red.

"Wh-what is this place?" Elliot asked to one in particular.

"And why is a building like this on campus?" Rean asked too. "It looks like it should've been torn down ages ago".

Their instructor simply hummed some tune while opening the doors and entering.

Everyone watched when the blond girl asked what was in everyone's minds.

"What does she even want us to do here?"

"Gah… Is she ever gonna tell us what's going on?!" The boy with green hair asked more to himself than to the rest of the group.

"I suppose we'll just have to go inside and see for ourselves what awaits us". The blue haired girl said.

"Th-this place looks like some old haunted mansion or something". Elliot thought aloud as the rest walked in.

"Now that you mention it, it kind of does". Rean answered. 'I think this is everyone I've seen with a red uniform so far; I guess we really are part of the same class then'. As he thought that he and Elliot followed the rest inside the building.

No one noticed the two people looking at them in a cliff nearby.

Inside the old building.

The woman moved towards a stage while the students moved closer to it, waiting for some answers.

"The name's Sara Valestein". She introduced herself. "I'm the instructor in charge of Class VII, which means you get the pleasure of seeing me all year; glad to finally meet you".

"Wait… Class VII?" The boy with glasses asked confused.

"I'm not sure I understand; I wasn't told anything about this at enrollment".

"Excuse me, Instructor Sara?" A girl with glasses and long braided hair asked. "I was under the impression that there were only five classes at this academy and that students were split among them based on their social class and home region".

"Right you are, Miss Top Scorer on the Thors entrance exam!" The instructor answered happily. "Students in each year are divided into five classes: two for the nobility and three for commoners". She started to answer. "And it's been that way for ages, right up through last year. But this year, we decided to shake things up a little".

"Wh-what do you?" The same girl wondered but the Instructor continued with her explanation.

"We now have a sixth class; fittingly titled… Class VII".

"Hmm, aren't you missing one number?" Rean asked.

"And in Class VII, we recognize no distinction between nobles and commoners". But was completely ignored.

"Y-you're really putting nobles and commoners in the same class?" The blond haired girls asked surprised.

"THIS MUST BE SOME KIND OF JOKE!" The boy with green hair yelled gaining everyone's attention. "And why is this the first I've heard of it?!"

"Well, uh… errr… who were you again?" The instructor asked giving up on trying to remember his name, if she even knew it to begin with.

"Machias Regnitz". He answered. "And with all due respect, Instructor, it's ludicrous to intermix nobles and commoners like this!" He continued. "Must I be forced to spend my next two years shoulder to shoulder with those arrogant, stuck-up hedonists?!"

'Wow, it's usually the noble who doesn't want to be with commoners, not the other way around'. Rean thought.

"Uh… You DO know I'm not the one who made the decision, right?" Sara pointed out. "Besides, what's the big deal, anyway? You're all kids; can't you all just… get along or something?"

"J-Just get along?!" Machias said as if that notion was some bad joke. "And how would you propose we do that?"

"Hmph". The blond haired boy standing next to him scoffed earning Machias' attention.

"And what's YOUR problem?"

"Oh, nothing much". He answered. "I just find the irony of your behavior rather humorous".

"Is that so?" Machias asked glaring at him. "It seems the scion of some noble house has left the comfort of his mansion to grace the unwashed masses with his wisdom!" He started with obvious sarcasm on every syllable. "Please, milord, do share your esteemed name with us so I can give you all the respect you deserve".

'Come on, now you're just been an asshole for the sake of being one'. Rean thought, some people probably sharing his opinion.

"Jusis Albarea" The blond haired boy answered, there various reactions some surprised others curious and some simply remained stoic. "Not that I'd expect the name of an arrogant, stuck-up hedonist to lodge itself in that hard head of yours".

"H-he's from one of the Four Great Houses". Elliot said.

"The son of Duke Albarea, lord of the Kreuzen province in the southeast". Rean added.

"Well, you don't get much more noble than that". The blond haired girl threw in her two cents.

"Interesting; I'd heard the rumors". The girl with a pony-tail thought out loud.

"D-DO YOU EXPECT ME TO BE IMPRESSED?!" Machias shouted. "Your family lineage means nothing to me!"

"Emm, isn't the fact that you're getting so worked up about it proof of the opposite?" Rean asked gaining the attention of the green haired boy. "I mean, if it didn't mean anything then you would just ignore him, wouldn't you?" He asked matter-of-factly.

Before Machias could answer the Instructor interrupted.

"Okay, okay that's enough". She said gaining everyone's attention once again. "I'm sure a couple of you have a few grievances, but now is not the time; I'll hear your complaints later". The discussion stopped there, at least for now. "Right now, you've got your orienteering exercise, and far be it from me to keep you from our fun little icebreaker". Machias glared at Jusis a moment longer before looking back at Sara.

"You mentioned this… 'orienteering exercise' earlier; what exactly does that involve?" The blond haired girl asked.

"It's a form of outdoor competition, isn't it?" The girl with glasses asked. "Something like a cross between a map-reading exercise and a scavenger hunt?"

'Is that why-vocalize Rean' Rean thought. "Is that why they asked us to hand over our weapons at the gate?"

"Nothing gets by you, does it?" Sara asked with a brow slightly raised before taking a few steps back till her back hit the wall, she smiled before saying. "Buuut I don't' want to spoil the fun, so let's get started, shall we?" She winked before pressing a button in the wall.

Everyone felt some sort of tremor beneath them when a trap door opened.

"Oh, crap!" Rean said as gravity took action and most of them started to fall, due to his position he managed to avoid immediately falling but it was a matter of time before he would slide down.

He saw the blond girl from earlier also sliding down and move to cushion her fall while he was falling he looked up and saw that the girl he saw napping in the park was holding onto a ledge from some sort of grapple.

'That would have been useful'. He thought while falling.

Basement of the old building.

"Ugh, what just happened?" Machias asked as he started to sit up and recover from the fall.

"The floor gave out from under us". The other glasses wearing person answered him.

"I can't believe I fell for such an obvious trap". The blue haired girl commented standing up.

"Does this means there is a series of catacombs beneath the school grounds, then?" The tallest boy of them asked.

"Hmph; what does that woman think she's playing at?" Jusis asked with an irritated expression.

At that moment the silver haired girl landed with a sigh, been the last of them to fall there.

"I thought my heart was going to jump out of my chest". Elliot said with a relieved sigh while moving to a sitting position. "Het Rean, are you o-" He stopped mid-sentence when he saw the situation the black haired boy was in. "kay…?"

Rean was laying face-up on the ground with the blond haired girl on top of him, his face in her chest.

'This is going to be bad'. Rean thought while keeping his hands up so everyone can see them.

"Rrrg… what happened?" The girl asked not realizing the situation she was in at first. "Huh?" But as soon as she did her face turned into a tomato.

'Just shut up and wait till she gets up'. Rean thought still maintaining his position and moving the less possible.

She quickly got up, with a clearly angry expression aimed at the boy.

"Yeah… sorry about that". Rean said while getting up. "I was trying to catch you but the landing part wasn't really-"

Before he could continue with his explanation the girl tried to slap him in the face with her right hand; keyword 'try' since Rean took a step back and dodged.

"It was an accident; please don't try to hit me". Rean pleaded while holding his hands up in an 'I surrender' fashion.

The girl glared at him for a few seconds before looking away with an 'hmph' and get some distance between them.

"It just isn't your day isn't it?" Elliot asked him once things calmed down a bit.

"I had worse". Rean answered with a sigh and a shrug. "But once you hit the bottom you can only go up".

"That's a good way to look at it".

"Thanks, but what is this place anyway?"

"I was wondering the same thing". Elliot answered, probably speaking for everyone involved. "We should check out those tables".

But before they could a sound earned everyone's attention. They all looked at their pockets and took out an orbment, from the looks of it, it seemed like everyone had the same model.

"It's coming from the devices we received with the academy guidebook". The girl with glasses commented.

"Seems to be some sort of… portable orbment". The blue haired girl added.

"Right you are!" The voice of Instructor Sara coming from the orbment surprised them. "These handy little devices are a special kind of battle orbment".

"Is that… Ms. Valestein?" The tallest of them asked.

"So these devices have built-in communications functionality, then?" Machias asked just to confirm.

"W-wait, don't tell me these things are-?!"

"New model battle orbments made through a partnership between the Epstein and Reinford Company" Sara interrupted the blond girl mid-sentence. "Newly-made fifth-generation battle orbments, in fact; they're called ARCUS units".

"ARCUS" Rean said looking at the device in his hand.

"So these are battle orbments". The girl with braided hair concluded. "That means they'll allow us to use arts, right?"

"Sure will! Just set a quartz into one of its slots and you can use arts all the live long day". Sara answered. "Which is why I've prepared enough quartz for each and every one of you".

Suddenly the room lit up due to several lamps placed in the walls and everyone saw different cases around it.

"The weapons you brought are all here too, each packaged neatly alongside a little box containing a quartz". Most of them looked around till they spotted their own case. "Find yours and try setting the quartz into your ARCUS".

After a few seconds of thinking the girl with blue hair spoke.

"I suppose it can't hurt to try". And walked towards her case, the silver haired girl did the same.

"What is this woman thinking?" Machias asked with a sigh before doing the same.

Everyone else did the same and soon everyone had their own weapon and quartz, Sara explained that they all received a 'master quartz' that was supposed to go inside the large slot in the center of the ARCUS.

After placing it in the slot like they were told everyone noticed a faint glow coming from the orbment and their own chests.

"Wh-what in the world?" Rean asked what everyone was probably thinking.

"That light means that you've successfully synchronized with your ARCUS". Sara explained. "Congratulations, now you can use arts as much as you want". She then mentioned something about some other features but said that would be an explanation for later. "Anyway, since you've got your ARCUS all set up and ready to go, here's what I want you to do". A door in the opposite side from where everyone fell opened gaining their attention. "When you step through that door, you'll be in an underground testing area; basically… it's a dungeon".

'There is a dungeon in the school grounds?!' Rean thought in surprise looking at the door.

"It's pretty large and full of twists and turns" The voice of the Instructor got his attention again. "I'd almost guarantee that you'll get lost at least once; but when you find the exit, you'll be able to return to the first floor of this old schoolhouse".

"At least you're not saying 'if' we can find the exit". Rean said to himself. 'But I have a feeling there is something else to this dungeon than just walk till we get out'.

"There ARE monsters wandering around, though, so don't let your guard down even for a moment!"

'Called it'.

"With all that said, let's commence our special orienteering exercise!" Sara continued. "Your objective is to make your way through this area and back to the surface; make it back in one piece and I'll be happy to field any complaints you might have".

'So it is possible to not make it back in one piece then'. Rean thought with a sigh.

"If you make it back safely, I might even give you a kiss, free of charge!... On the cheek, of course"

The call ended there and everyone moved near the door.

"U-umm". Elliot tried to say something but didn't seem to be able to find the right words.

"I don't think she is joking". The blond girl said.

Jusis made a 'hmph' before walking for the door. "And just where do you think you're going?" Until Machias interrupted him. "Were you planning on wander off on your own without saying anything?!"

"I have no interest in becoming friends with anyone here". Jusis answered him. "And I'm surprised that you, of all people, give a damn about what I do; unless you've suddenly decided you DO want to keep company with one of those 'stuck-up hedonists' after all". Machias's answer was to grow at him. "Still, if you're afraid of the monsters, I suppose I could accompany you". That just earned another glare from Machias, not that he wasn't already glaring. "After all, what kind of Erebonian noble would I be if I didn't have at least some degree of prowess with a sword? And noblesse obliges that it's my sacred duty to protect powerless commoners such as yourself".

"Wh-WHAT THE HELL?!" Machias yelled. "Nobody's asking your high excellency to DEIGN to help us!" He made his way to the door before looking back at him. "But if that's how you're going to be, I'll just… find my way out of here before you; I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself without some relic of an outdated class system dragging me down!" With those words he started to walk inside the dungeon

Jusis didn't answer and simply entered too.

The rest of them watched them go and once they couldn't be seen the girl with glasses asked.

"What should WE do?"

"The only thing we CAN do". The blue haired girl answered her. "We should begin exploring these ruins ourselves; I believe it would be prudent to remain in small groups, however". She looked at the blond and the girl with braided hair before continuing. "Would the two of you have any objections to accompanying me?"

"No, that's fine". The one with blond hair answered first.

"It would be a huge help actually". The other one agreed too.

"And you're welcome to join us as…" She trailed off when she was going to ask the silver haired girl but she was already walking through the door. "…well? I suppose that's a no; perhaps we'll run into her along the way and she can join us then". She looked back at the other two girls. "So, shall we be off?" And then looked at the guys in the room. "I'm certain you gentlemen will be fine, but do take care".

"Thanks, you too". Rean answered her.

"If you'll excuse us, please" The bespectacled girl said with a bow before following the blue haired girl inside the dungeon.

The blond simply looked away and followed them.

After they were out of sight Elliot spoke.

"Not such a hot first impression there, huh?" He asked with a chuckle.

"I think it would depend on who you ask". Rean answered making Elliot puzzled. "We'll have to clear things up later, but for now, do you two want to stick together too?"

"Sounds good to me!" Elliot said. "I'd get pretty anxious wandering around a place like this alone".

"No objections here; I'd be happy to accompany you". The tallest of them answered. "My name is Gaius Worzel, I just arrived in the Empire, so any help you can offer would be much appreciated"

"Rean Schwarzer"

"Elliot Craig" Everyone introduced themselves and prepared their weapons.

"You're from abroad then, I've been wondering". Rean thought out loud. "Nice to meet you".

"Hey Gaius, you fight with that?" Elliot asked looking at the weapon in his right hand.

"Of course, why else would I be carrying it?" The tall foreigner answered.

"It's a spear, but it has that odd cross-shaped head". Rean noticed.

"It looks kind of… awesome". Elliot commented.

"Think of it as combining the best parts of a spear and a pole-axe". Gaius explained. "I was pretty handy with it back home; but speaking of weapons, I have to say, yours looks pretty unique". He said looking at the staff on Elliot's hands.

"Oh, this thing…" Elliot said noticing.

"Is it… a staff?" Rean wondered. "Wait… No, it's an orbment, isn't it?"

"Both actually" Elliot answered. "It's an orbal staff; the tech is pretty recent—this one is still a prototype more or less" He explained. "Back during enrollment, they told me I had some aptitude for it, so when it came time to choose, I just sorta… ran with it".

"Interesting, I've never seen anything like it before". Gaius said giving the staff a once-over.

"Can't say I have either". Rean added.

"They're still in development, apparently, so there aren't too many around just yet". Elliot answered to their comments. "But that said I'm curious about what you've got there, Rean".

"Oh, my sword?"

"Yeah but… what kind of sword is it?" Elliot asked curiously.

"It's different from the kinds of swords I thought people in the empire use, though…"

"It's an eastern style of saber called a tachi". Rean answered them. "Any way you slice it, though, it's basically a longsword". He moved it from his side and held it as if pointing at someone so they could look at it better.

"Wow, that's one beautiful blade!" Elliot explained.

"The craftsmanship looks exceptional". Gaius commented.

"They're renowned for the layering of their steel and the sharpness of their edge". Rean told them. "Truth be told, though, I'm still a little hesitant to be swinging around something this dangerous".

"Seriously?" Elliot asked as if he heard a joke. "If that's what hesitant looks like, I'll bet confidence will make you unstoppable".

"Well, you sound like a good guy to have around when the going gets tough".

"I could say the same about you guys". Rean answered sheathing his tachi. "But what do you say if we start moving now".

They nodded and the three passed through the door.

Okay, I think this is a good place to stop for now.

So, this was a lot like the normal prologue since there isn't much I could actually change without feeling it was out of place, next chapter will probably be kind of like that too but eventually I will make some bigger changes.

Not much else to say, if you liked it you can leave a review; if you didn't like it you can also leave one as long as it is a productive one.

And I hope you enjoyed, until next time.

Chapter Text

Rean's group made their way around the dungeon, it was mostly a series of hallways with some places been a big square, there were some monsters like the Instructor said but so far there wasn't anything they couldn't handle; Rean and Gaius would act as the front line and cut or stab their enemies while Elliot hits them from behind using his staff to summon what looked like bubbles but packed a good punch despite appearances.

"I'm starting to lose my sense of direction in here". Elliot said after one of their battles with a group of flying felines.

"I don't think we're running in circles, at least not for now". Rean answered to reassure him. "What about you Gaius?"

"I think we're in the right track as well". He answered.

"I'll leave a mark here just in case". Rean moved towards a wall and carved an x with his sword. "If we see this then we know we're not going in the right direction".

They kept walking and reached another room this one had some insect-like monsters crawling around it.

"An insectoid monster, huh?" Rean said looking at them from the hallway. "With that shell they might be pretty tough to take down".

"Agreed". Gaius concurred. "We'll need to keep our wits about us against this one".

"We should probably give it everything we've got, arts and crafts included, and see what works best". Elliot suggested.

They all prepared their weapons and rushed inside.

Gaius got the first strike in by hitting one of the insect from behind without realizing it; it made a screeching sound and turned around to try to attack him but was then hit by Elliot's bubbles and finally cut down by Rean.

"That's one". Rean said looking at the remaining insects that were now all looking at them. "Elliot, you may want to prepare some arts".

The red-head nodded and activated his ARCUS, a blue looking circle appearing around him.

"We'll keep them at bay in the meantime". Gaius said grabbing his spear with both hands, at that moment it started to emit a green glow and when he thrusted a gust of wind was sent in a line hitting half the insects.

One of the insects that weren't hit started to make bee line for Elliot but Rean moved between them making it change objectives, it tried to jump on him but he hit it with his blade and sent it a few feet back.

"Aqua bleed". Elliot said, a mass of water forming in front of him and then flying at high speed against one of the insects killing it instantly.

They kept this pace and in a few minutes all the insects were gone and they regrouped near the doorway they came from.

"I think that's all of them". Gaius said checking for any more monsters in sight but stopped looking when Elliot suddenly fell to one knee.

"Elliot, are you okay?" Rean asked worriedly.

"I don't see any obvious injuries". Gaius commented looking for any wounds.

"I-I'm okay!" He assured them. "I was just so relieved the fight was over, the strength kind of just… left my legs; I'm amazed how calm you two are, you don't seem tired or worried or anything!"

"I guess I'm just used to fight monsters like these". Gaius responded.

"You need a hand?"

"N-no, I'll be fine" Elliot answered the black haired boy. "It was just a momentary lapse on my part; I can get up". He started to move to get up when-

"Look out!"

"Elliot!" Both Gaius and Rean warned sensing one insect up the walls about to jump on him.

"Wha-?" Elliot asked turning around and seeing the insect already lunging at him but in the middle of the air it was struck by something and instead went flying near the doorway; Rean didn't waste any time and cut it down while it was dazed.

"Looks like I made it just in time". They heard a voice from the opposite doorway. "Thank Aidios for that".

The three looked in the direction of the voice and saw Machias holding a shotgun.

"Oh, it's you!" Elliot said.

"You said your name was… Machias, right?" Gaius asked for confirmation.

"That's right". The boy with glasses nodded.

"You have some nice timing". Rean commented as the four grouped near the middle of the room.

"I came to realize that I shouldn't have just stormed off like I did". Machias said apologetically. "I let that arrogant noble goad me into losing my composure and acting on impulse". He explained. "So I just want to say… I'm sorry; I acted foolishly and I hope you can forgive me for it".

"No sweat". Rean was the first to answer. "Water under the bridge".

"Yeah, we all have moments when we say or do things we regret". Elliot added. "That's human nature for you and thanks for saving me".

"I'm just glad I happened to be passing by". Machias answered. "After I'd cooled my head, I decided to retrace my steps, and there you were". He looked at each of his companions before asking. "Is it just the three of you here?"

"Yeah, we stood around talking for a while, so the others are probably ahead of us at this point". Rean answered him.

"I don't think there's any reason to go back any farther". The tallest of them commented. "I can't imagine you'll find anyone there".

"I see". Machias took a moment to think before speaking again. "I… I don't suppose you'd mind if I came with you, would you? I'm reasonably skilled with a gun, so you might find it useful having me along".

"Sure thing, welcome aboard". The black haired teen answered.

They all sheathed their weapons, Rean placing his sword on its scabbard, Gaius folding his spear in three places and moving it to a holder on his pants, Elliot making his staff smaller and placing it in a holder similar to Gaius' and Machias moving his shotgun to a holder on his back.

They all re-introduced themselves, more the group of three to Machias since he hadn't heard their names yet, and were about to keep going but before anyone could take a step Machias asked.

"Could… could I also ask what social class you each belong to?" They were taken aback a little by the sudden question and seeing that Machias spoke again. "I realize how that must sound, considering my recent outburst… but please, don't take it personally; I'm simply curious to know who I'm associating with".

They shared a look and Elliot was the first to answer.

"Umm… well, both my parents are commoners".

"Likewise". Gaius also answered. "Though, my homeland has no class system to begin with".

"Ah, so you're from abroad then?" Machias asked to which he nodded. "What about you Rean?"

'This is going to go well'. Rean thought sarcastically. 'I guess I could say a half-truth'

"Rean?" Elliot called since he seemed to be lost in thought.

"There isn't a single drop of noble blood in my veins". He finally answered.

"Well that's a-"

"But I am a noble". Rean interrupted Machias surprising the three present. "I was adopted by Baron Teo Schwarzer from Ymir".

"Really?!" Elliot half yelled in surprise. "I wouldn't have guessed you don't seem the type".

"Yeah, I get that a lot". Rean said passing a hand through his hair.

Gaius simply hummed in acknowledgment, this information not really changing anything for him.

Machias, on the other hand, scowled and glared at Rean.

"Is this going to be a problem?" The swordsman asked calmly noticing his change in demeanor.

"…No". The bespectacled teen answered after a few seconds of silence, he didn't stop glaring though. "We should go". He turned his back and started to walk ahead of the group, they watched him for a moment before following.

There was an uncomfortable silence as they walked, Machias always trying to keep his distance from Rean; there wasn't too much problem when they fought monsters but it wasn't exactly pleasant to be like this.

"You think I should have stopped at 'there isn't a single drop of noble blood in my veins'?" The black haired teen asked Elliot and Gaius since they were still walking at his side.

"Well…" Elliot trailed off.

"I believe it's best to be honest, unless you planned on hiding your social class". Gaius answered.

"Even if I did plan that, it wouldn't have worked". He answered. "If it wasn't for this whole Class VII thing I would have been wearing white instead of red".

"True, the nobles wear white while the commoners wear green". Elliot agreed. "But I'm with Gaius, it could have been worse if you lied and then we ended up finding out some other way".

"Yeah, I guess you're right". Rean conceded.

After a while they reached another room with two doorways aside from the one they entered.

"We meet again". Someone said from the left doorway earning the four teens' attention, they all looked in the direction of the voice and saw the group of girls that left before Rean's; the blonde one didn't seem too happy about seeing them, or one of them anyway.

"Good to see you guys are hangin' in there". Elliot said with a smile.

"I'm glad the four of you are unharmed as well". The girl wearing glasses answered.

'Something tells me one of you doesn't share the sentiment'. Rean thought noticing the slight glare from the girl he met at the station but decided to not say anything on the matter.

"Well, it seems you've cooled your head a bit, at least". The girl with blue hair said referring to Machias.

He made a slight growl before confirming that and the girls moved so now both groups were face to face.

"At any rate, I don't believe I've introduced myself yet, have I?" The girl with a ponytail said. "I'm Laura S. Arseid, from the town of Legram; it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance".

"Legram?" Rean thought for a moment. 'Is she?!'

"Legram is down on the southeastern outskirts of the Empire, isn't it?" The orbal staff user asked.

"Correct, it's an old castle town on the shores of Lake Ebel". Laura answered him. "We're connected to the rest of the country by train, but other than that, it's a fairly remote region".

"Is your father the Radiant Blademaster?" The swordsman of the group asked suddenly.

"Oh, you've heard of him?"

"If you're a swordsman then you have heard about him". Rean answered matter-of-factly.

"Wait! So your father is-"

"Yes, my father is Viscount Arseid, Lord of Legram". Laura answered to Machias before he could finish. "Do you take issue with that?" Despite her words her tone didn't have any animosity towards the shotgun user.

"N-no, not at all…" Machias stammered.

"Machias, was it?" She asked to which he nodded. "I can only speak for myself, but I don't feel I've ever done anything to bring shame upon myself on Aidios' eyes and I fully believe the same to be true of my father".

"P-Please, I meant no offense". The glasses teen quickly answered. "I'm sorry if I… if I, uh…"

'I think that if it was other type of noble they would probably be a lot harsher than she is'. Elliot thought seeing the situation. 'I'm kind of happy about that to be honest'.

"Say, I don't believe we've been introduced". Machias tried to change the subject by asking the other person in the room who wore glasses.

Said girl did a small bow before introducing herself. "I'm Emma Millstein; like Laura I come from a distant region of the Empire, I was only able to attend Thors thanks to a scholarship, in fact; it's very nice to meet you".

"A scholarship?" The green haired teen asked. "Hmm… indeed, now that you mention it, our instructor did say yours was the top score on the entrance exam". Suddenly his expression seemed to fell. "To think I was outdone and by a girl no less".

"You must be quite the prodigy". Gaius commented.

"Maybe it seems like it now, but really, I'm not". Emma chuckled nervously. "I don't have any training in the martial arts either, so this is the weapon they recommended for me". She then took a staff similar to Elliot's.

"Oh, cool, you got an orbal staff too". The other staff user commented.

"By the way, we haven't introduced ourselves yet". Rean said gaining the attention of the others in the room. "I'm Rean Schwarzer, nice to meet you".

"Oh it's true, I'm Elliot Craig".

"Gaius Worzel"

"I think you already know, but I'm Machias Regnitz".

Meanwhile the blond haired girl kept glaring at Rean.

"Could I ask you to please not glare at me anymore?" Rean asked as politely as possible, not that it had any effect.

"We're all acquainted now—it's only proper that you introduce yourself". Laura told her.

"I'm Alisa… R, from Roer". Alisa said stopping her glare for a moment. "It's a pleasure to meet ALMOST all of you". And just like that it was back, the others couldn't help but sweat drop at that part.

"It's nice to meet you too". Rean answered ignoring the last part of her introduction.

"A-Alisa…" Emma apparently wanted to say something but in the end she just trailed off.

"Roer, huh?" Elliot said trying to change the awkward atmosphere. "What's it like living there? There's probably a new technological breakthrough every week".

"The Reinford Company's based in Roer, and they're the largest heavy industry corporation on the continent, aren't they?" Machias threw his two cents to try and help the situation.

"I suppose they are". Alisa answered simply.

"Say, that bow of yours". Rean said looking at the bow in Alisa's hands. "Does it have some orbal mechanism built in?"

"It does, but I don't see how that's any of YOUR business".

"Just curious, it doesn't look like a regular bow and I don't see any arrows on you so I was wondering". He said once again not paying attention to her comment.

"Anyone got any ideas on what to do now?" Elliot asked desperately trying to change the subject. "We've all run into each other wandering around, how about we stick together?"

"I think that would be for the best". Machias agreed. "It's not safe for a group of girls to travel alone".

"Personally, I think they're probably safer than we were while walking around". Rean said making his three male companions to look at him. "Or at least that's what that sword makes me think".

"What swor- how did we not see that?!" The green haired teen exclaimed noticing the giant bastard sword held by straps at Laura's side.

"I don't mean to boast, but I'm confident my swordsmanship will be more than sufficient to protect us". The swordswoman said pulling out her sword so the rest could see it. "For now, I think it's best to remain in separate groups; there are still two of us who remain unaccounted for".

"That's right; we still haven't run into that silver-haired girl". Emma added.

"In that case, two teams means double the chance to find them". Gaius agreed with them.

"So then, shall we be off?" Laura asked sheathing her sword.

"All right". Alisa quickly put her bow away and started to walk.

"Before you go". Rean said making her stop on her tracks.

"What?" She asked scowling; the swordsman of the group took a few steps towards her before bowing a full 90 degrees.

"I'm sorry about what happened with the trap door".

"…eh?" Clearly surprised by that Alisa couldn't answer immediately, Rean went back to stand straight before continuing to speak.

"I didn't mean for that to happen and I'm sorry about it, but it was an accident so could we please just put it behind us?"

The rest of the group remained silent while watching what would happen, after a few seconds Alisa sighed.

"No, I'm sorry, I know it was an accident but I just let my temper get the better of me, sorry about almost slapping you too and for those comment just now".

"It's okay, so we're good?" Rean asked just to make sure.

"Yeah, we're good". Alias offered him a handshake which he took.

"I'm glad they worked that out". Emma said smiling at the scene, the others nodded in agreement.

"T-that aside though". Alisa spoke again. "I agree that it wasn't your fault but you have to forget about what happened"

"Huh?" Rean tilted his head a bit in confusion.

"I forbid you to think about that thing, and the same goes for you guys you can't mention it". She clarified while also telling to the others in the room. "Are we clear then? You have to forget it".

"Forget what?" Rean wasn't asking it was a way to say that he had already forgotten.

"Well, be careful down here". Alisa said pleased before walking off.

"We'll see you later". Emma said to the males before she and Laura took off after Alisa.

Once they were out of sight Elliot approached Rean.

"That's one thing less to worry about".

"Tell me about it". The black haired teen answered.

"Agreed". Machias said his apprehension towards Rean seemingly forgotten. "Still, is no one else worried about leaving a group of girls to fend for themselves in a place like this?"

"You think?" Gaius asked curiously.

"There are four of us here; perhaps one of us should follow them".

"I don't think we have to worry about them". The tall foreigner said. "I doubt Laura drags around a sword that big just for show".

"I still don't understand how we didn't notice it before; it's almost comical how huge it is". The green haired teen said. "But at the end of the day, a lady is a lady".

"She's taller and sturdier than I am!" Elliot exclaimed. "Though I admit, it's still hard to believe anyone could swing that beast of a sword".

"I'll bet she can whip it around without breaking a sweat". Rean said surprising the other three. "The Arseid School of swordsmanship serves as a general basis for the techniques used by knights throughout the Empire" He explained. "And her father, the viscount, is arguably the strongest swordsman in the country, as I said before he has the title of Radiant Blademaster, there is probably not one student that could stand their ground against her, much less beat her". During that last part an aura of fire seemed to surround Rean but it was gone as soon as it appeared.

"Rean?" Elliot called out wondering if he was imagining things.

"Well, what do you guys say if we keep looking for a way out?"

They all nodded and resumed their walk.

Nothing of interest happened for a while, they would encounter some more monsters, beat them, start to walk again and repeat.

"Maybe we should have asked before but why are monsters in the school grounds?" Rean asked to break the silence that formed after their last battle.

"Now that you mention it". Machias said putting his right index finger over his mouth as if thinking. "It seems like a danger to the students".

"This is a military school, so it's not that I didn't expect it to not be combat training but to have an area like this…" Elliot trailed off.

"I take it places like this aren't common in the Empire then?" Gaius commented.

"There are some ruins that we don't really know how were made and things like that but I don't think anyone would build a school on top of one". The orbal staff user answered.

"I guess we'll have to ask the Instructor lat-" Rean suddenly stopped mid-sentence and closed his eyes.

"What's wrong?" Machias asked confused.

"M-more monsters?!" Elliot wondered looking around.

"No… not monsters". Gaius answered. "It's…" Both he and Rean looked at a pillar in the middle of the room they just entered.

"Huh, you're pretty sharp". They heard a voice from behind said pillar which made the two who still haven't realized to look in that direction.

From behind the pillar walked out a girl.

"It's the girl with silver hair". Elliot said surprised.

"I'm glad to see you're all right". Rean said relieved. "…Though it looks like there was nothing to worry about in the first place".

"Nope". The girl answered. "I'm small and quick, these things can't lay a finger on me". She said smiling. "Oh yeah, Fie Clausell, that's my name".

"I'm Rean Schwarzer".

"Elliot Craig".

"Gaius Worzel".

"Machias Regnitz".

"You're just over half-way through, keep it up". She pretty much ignored their introductions to say this. "Later".

"W-Wait" Machias called out as Fie started to walk away.

"Are you sure you'll be okay on your own?" Elliot asked worriedly.

"Something tells me we don't have to worry about her". Rean said to both of them.

"True, if she can hide her presence like that then there shouldn't be any problem". Gaius supported.

"What they said". Fie told them before facing one of the walls of the room. "See you at the end". With those words she ran towards the wall, jumped and using it as a stepping stone reached a room higher.

"Wh-what just happened?!" The green haired teen asked surprised, Elliot blinked a few times as if to see if he was imagining things, Rean whistled and Gaius simply looked at the place she jumped to.

"I guess we really don't have to worry about her". The tallest of them commented.

"Yeah, if I wasn't convinced before then I am now". The swordsman agreed. 'But that thing about been halfway through, has she already been to the exit and then come back?'

Once again they resumed their exploration of the dungeon.

"Hey Elliot". Rean called out to him but was whispering so Machias and Gaius couldn't hear them. "You noticed how Machias was pretty much glaring at me before, right?"

"W-well…" Elliot trailed off with a nervous chuckle. "Why do you ask?"

"It's just that it seems that he isn't mad anymore". The orbal staff user was confused but noticed that the distance he was walking away from Rean was much smaller than before.

"Now that you mention it".

"Not that I'm complaining but it seems a bit weird, don't you think?"

"Yeah, it is weird". The red haired teen agreed.

"Is something wrong you two?" Machias asked from the front.

"No, nothing". Elliot answered a bit too quickly.

"I was just wondering why you aren't glaring at me anymore". The swordsman said honestly, which in turn made Elliot open his mouth in surprise.

"What do y-". And as if a realization had struck him Machias was suddenly glaring again and turned his back without another word.

The other three looked puzzled at one another but in the end they just shrugged and kept walking until.

"Do you hear that?" Gaius asked Rean.

"Someone's fighting up ahead, come on". He answered as both dashed, Machias and Elliot quickly picking up the pace.

Once they reached the room where the sound of fighting were coming from they saw Jusis surrounded by monsters but instead of been overwhelmed, he was fending them off thrusting or slashing with his sword before dodging or parrying incoming attacks and repeating.

"I-incredible". Machias admitted seeing the display.

"That was really something" Elliot commented.

"Judging by that display, I don't think he needs any help from us". Gaius said before facing Rean. "I take it that's another school of Imperial swordsmanship?"

"Right". The black haired teen answered moving his right hand to his chin and using his left to hold his right elbow. "That's court fencing, an agile style favored by the nobility". He looked at Jusis fighting but it was more like he was analyzing his movements. "And judging by his poise, he's no amateur".

With one last slash the final monster was slayed and Jusis sheathe his sword.

"Did you need something?" The noble asked now facing Rean's group.

"Sorry, I was just admiring your swordsmanship". The other swordsman answered honestly before the group took a few steps closer to him.

They all introduced themselves once again when Jusis faced Machias.

"I have to say, I didn't think you had it in you, I'm impressed". Although he said that his tone gave a different vibe.

"What are you talking about?" The shotgun user asked, squinting his eyes a bit behind his glasses.

"After all that bluster about finding your way to the exit alone, I wasn't expecting you to actually rely on others for help". Jusis explained. "I assume you came to your senses shortly after you stormed off, and then wandered back to apologize like a good boy".

'Well you're right, but the way you say it makes you sound like you're mocking him'. Rean thought. 'Which you probably are'.

"Truly the virtue of the common man!" The blond teen continued. "Why, a preening noble such as myself would be far too proud to do such a thing".

'And yet, something tells me you wouldn't have any issue apologizing if you did something wrong'. Rean thought but was interrupted by-

"What the hell is your problem?!" Machias growled, now glaring at him. "You nobles are all the same, so full of yourselves it's a wonder you don't pop! And you're not just a garden-variety noble, either". By this point it looked like the green haired teen would pop a vein at any minute. "House Albarea is one of the highest-ranking in the country; I'll bet you just love looking down on us less-fortunate souls, don't you?!" He yelled but despite all he said Jusis didn't seemed bothered by it.

"Tch, you're one to talk". He sneered. "I don't need a lecture in rank from the son of the Imperial governor". At these words Machias seemed taken aback.

"Wait… what?" Rean asked surprised.

"Oh!" Elliot suddenly exclaimed. "I thought the name Regnitz sounded familiar".

"Carl Regnitz, the first commoner ever to hold the seat of Imperial governor in Heimdallr". Jusis began to explain. "The first to rule the capital and this… headstrong young lad just so happens to be a chip off that old block".

'I didn't think you would choose your words so carefully'. Rean thought a bit surprised.

"Pretty rarified air for a simple commoner, don't you think?"

"W-what does that have to do with anything?!" Machias yelled back clearly flustered. "Yes, my father is the Imperial governor, but he EARNED that position through years of hard, honest work!"

"Hey calm dow-" The black haired teen tried to calm the situation but the bespectacled teen wasn't even listening.

"Don't you go lumping him in with you nepotists who get your titles handed to you just for being born!"

Despite everything he said Jusis still didn't seem fazed at all.

"Perish the thought". He responded calmly. "No, I mainly regard your father as a reformist… and a close friend of the chancellor, at that". The green haired teen seemed to look away for a moment. "And as you're vividly aware, his faction is in conflict with the Noble Faction, led by none other than the Four Great Houses". The blond teen's expression suddenly turned smug. "When you look at it that way, your vitriolic disdain for the nobility seems rather… cheap, wouldn't you say?"

"Y-YOU SON OF A-". Machias seemed about to hit Jusis.

"OK, that's enough". Rean quickly caught him and held him back from lashing out, obviously he started to struggle. "I know he is taunting you, but lashing out at him isn't going to solve anything". He tried to reason. "And Jusis, don't you think that was a little uncalled for?"

"I wasn't the one who started this". He answered simply.

"And why do you care?!" Machias yelled to his captor. "That's right you're a noble too, I bet you couldn't have wished for a better opportunity; you get to score some points with one of the Four Great Houses".

"Do you really think that?" Rean asked, although it sounded more like an 'are you kidding me?'

"Yes, who cares if you were adopted?! You're still one of them; I bet your 'father' would be more than happy to know that you got in the Albarea's good side".

"He couldn't care less about that". The swordsman answered tightening his hold and forcing him to stay still. "And you are acting like a pissed off kid who thinks he knows better; when I told you I was a noble you glared but after a while you stopped, hell you were even talking to me normally until I mentioned that you were if I have to guess you probably forgot I was a noble and when I reminded you, you felt like you needed to start with that attitude again". Around halfway through that explanation Machias had stopped struggling. "Am I right?"

"Just… let me go, please". He asked quietly, Rean complied. "I-I'm sorry… just leave me alone for a while, you guys should just go on ahead with him". After saying that Machias walked off.

"I think you also went a little too far Jusis". The swordsman said after Machias was out of sight. "Being at odds with someone is one thing, but dragging his father into it is pretty low".

"Perhaps I was a bit out of line". He admitted. "It would seem I still have much to learn".

"Huh?"

"You look shocked, why?" Jusis asked Elliot.

"W-well, you're the son of Duke Albarea, right?" He asked. "I wasn't expecting the son of a noble to admit he was wro—ahh! W-wait that came out wrong! I'm sorry". The red haired teen quickly apologized while stammering.

"There is no need to address me so formally". Jusis said with a sigh. "We may come from different social spheres, but here at this academy, we're supposed to be on equal standing". He said matter-of-factly. "Or so the idea goes, anyway".

"Y-yeah, that's true—I mean yes, I'm with you all the way there!"

"Elliot, relax". Rean murmured to himself.

"Is class really THAT big a deal in the empire?" Gaius asked him, whispering.

"It is, this country has a long story and the class system has been one of its central institutions for most of that". He answered before addressing Jusis. "So, what are you gonna do? We don't mind if you want to join, or do you prefer to keep going on your own?"

"I was intending to press on to the exit by myself". The blonde noble started to answer. "But I'd prefer not to mimic the actions of… his ilk, so I'll accompany you".

"What?!" Elliot couldn't help but yell earning a glare from Jusis. "I-I'm just surprised we're worthy of your company- I mean, I'm looking forward to having you on the team!"

"Let's just go with that"

"We should get moving, then, come on".

Rean and Gaius said before the four started to walk.

Like with Machias the atmosphere was awkward but it was a different type of awkwardness since this time it was because of Elliot who seemed overly conscious of Jusis.

Luckily they didn't deal with it for long.

"Hey, are we…?" Elliot trailed off as they entered a new room, unlike the others this was larger and had a set of stairs leading to a door where light came from.

"Looks like we are". Gaius answered him. "That definitely seems to be the exit".

"I can see the sunlight streaming in, so I'm guessing we're finally clear". Rean supported.

"Hmph, this was a complete waste of time, pointless busy work at best". Jusis said making the other three look at him. "Considering the school's esteemed founder, I was expecting more of a challenge, but nothing here posed even a modest threat".

"You know that's the kind of things that people say before something happens to prove them wrong, right?" Rean asked half-jokingly.

"Did we even fight the same enemies?" Elliot asked surprised. "I feel like I've been stretched to my limits; and what was all that business about Class VII, anyway?"

"Good question". Rean said before starting to think if there was some secret behind the class but he couldn't do so for long because a sudden tremblor.

"What was that?" Jusis asked.

"There!" Gaius called out looking at a big statue of a four-legged creature with wings and horns

Everyone was shocked while they watched the statue come to life, its grey color changing in most of its body to a black except at the end of its limbs, the horns and the front part of the wings the joints as well as large circular splotches appearing on the joints, coming to life the gargoyle jumped between them and the exit.

"Are monsters like this common in the Empire?" Gaius asked sounding surprisingly calm despite the situation.

"Not outside of old wives' tales they aren't!" Jusis answered while not taking his eyes off the creature.

Seeing that they didn't have any choice everyone drew their weapons.

"This thing is cutting our only route to the surface". Rean stated. "No choice… we have to fight it!"

"Right!" Gaius answered spear in hand.

"Finally, an opponent worthy of my skill". Jusis said confidently.

"A-Aidios, help us!" Elliot prayed.

The gargoyle roared before lunging at the group, everyone dodged to different directions to avoid being hit.

Jusis prepared his sword and quickly thrusted it three times at one of its legs but it did little more than a scratch to the large creature who attempted to crush him with that same leg forcing the noble to retreat.

Taking advantage of its distraction Rean rushed the monster from the opposite side aiming for the parts that seemed less resilient, although he was just judging by the color its limbs had compared to the rest of its body, and slashed at it.

'Damn it, this thing is hard'. He thought clenching his teeth and slashing two more times before using his sword to block his enemy's tail, he avoided receiving a full blow but was still sent flying a few feet away.

"Elliot, Jusis, prepare arts, Gaius help me keep it busy". The swordsman said after stopping himself from skidding in the ground.

"Got it!" Everyone answered.

While the orbal staff user and blond noble prepared their ARCUS Rean and Gaius started to circle the creature, constantly moving around it and trying to hit it while it was busy with the other; it didn't seem to do much but at the very least it was keeping the gargoyle its attention on them, they continued this until.

"I'm ready".

"Get out of the way". Elliot and Jusis said, both of them jumped away as their companions unleashed their arts, specifically Aqua Bleed and Air Strike.

Unlike when Rean and Gaius were hitting it the creature roared in pain letting them know it felt that hit.

"It's working, go again!" But the gargoyle wouldn't allow that as it quickly lunged towards Elliot, the red haired teen widened his eyes in fear not having enough time to move out of the way he readied his staff to try and block the hit, although he knew that with his strength he would probably be sent flying away anyway.

"Elliot!" Rean called out worried but before the monster reached its mark Gaius stood in the middle and used his spear to stop it in the middle of its lunge, not wasting time Rean ran as fast as he could to aid them, he sheathed his sword while keeping a hand in its hilt and aimed for its right back leg, in the blink of an eye he draw his weapon moving from his position to the other side of the creature's leg leaving a gash in it.

'Damn it, I was trying to cut it off'. The swordsman cursed but with that gash the creature lost strength to its tackle allowing Gaius to parry it away.

"Air Strike". Jusis said sending another art that hit its mark.

Once again the creature roared in pain and everyone took some distance from it.

"Did we do it?" Gaius asked but his answer was an even greater roar from the monster before it was engulfed in a dark purple glow.

"What is that thing doing?" Jusis asked what was in everyone's minds; the answer was quick to come as the gargoyle's color changed most of its body turning blue except for the tail, around half of its front legs and the front of its wings, these parts taking a dull gold, while its horns and front claws turned a dark shade of red.

Before anyone could react it took flight and a circle indicative of arts appeared around the creature before it summoned a tornado on Elliot and Gaius, these two been closer to each other than everyone else, the force of the wind sending them in opposite directions.

Not wanting to give it time to attack again the two swordsmen quickly lunged at the gargoyle jumping and slashing at one of its back legs each, it was still hard to cut but with its transformation it seemed like it gave up some of its defense both cuts been a lot more deep than before.

"You guys okay?" Rean called out still forcing the creature to keep its attention on him.

"Yeah". Gaius answered using his spear to stand up.

"K-Kind of". Elliot said using his staff in the same way. "Guys, try to group up".

"If we do that we'll only give it a better target". Jusis told him barely dodging the monster's claw that aimed to take his head.

"Trust me". Elliot answered, without any other words they all moved closer to the orbal staff user. "Keep it up, everybody". At the same time he said those words he hit the ground with his staff, a faint glow appearing under everyone.

"What did you do?" Rean asked but before he could respond he saw the creature preparing another art, without wasting time he once again sheathed his sword rushed at the creature and in the blink of an eye he was at the other side, a deep gash now in the gargoyle's chest that forced it to stop its art. 'I feel kind of… rejuvenated'. He noticed that a good amount of the fatigue he had gotten from fighting was slowly fading away. 'I guess that was you're doing Elliot'

Jusis and Gaius also lunged at the monster while Elliot prepared another art; they all kept attacking, making sure to watch out for any other attacks it may do and although they did get hit more times the creature eventually fell from the air and to the ground.

"That should be the end of it". Jusis commented.

"No, it's down but not out!" Rean quickly corrected at the same time it got back on its feet.

"That's one hell of a second wind". Gaius said.

"I can appreciate a certain degree of tenacity, but this thing need to just die". The blond noble said clearly pissed off.

'It's no use; we're too spent to go another round with it'. The black haired teen thought noticing how everyone was panting for breath, he included. 'Guess I have no choice, I'll have to-'

"Stand back!" His thoughts were interrupted by those words at the same time several arrows flew past him and hit the gargoyle, almost immediately afterwards Emma and Laura appeared adding to the damage.

"Y-you made it!" Elliot said relief clear in his voice.

"You've certainly got some good timing!" Gaius said smiling.

"Seems like you're all okay, at least!" Alisa commented.

"I-I'm sorry we took so long". Emma apologized.

"You're here and that's what counts". Rean answered.

"So, a gargoyle is it?" Laura asked looking at the creature. "I didn't expect to find the Dark Ages alive and well down here, it doesn't seem like it'll go down easily".

"Indeed, it's brushing us off as though we barely even scratched it". Jusis agreed.

"But with this many of us, if we can just find an opening-"

"Fine, I guess I'll help out". The swordsman was interrupted by a girl's voice coming from the doorway.

They all looked back to see Fie holding a pair of twin gunswords and Machias with his shotgun in hand.

"Looks like you started the party without me". The latter said pointing his shotgun with one hand. "Releasing limiter, break shot!" A large bullet flew past hitting it square on the chest and dazing it, Fie didn't waste any time and jumping above it she landed near its back legs stabbing the right one.

"An opening!" Gaius announced seeing the creature hang up its head in pain.

"Go!" With that signal everyone started to attack, a faint blue glow appearing in them.

Elliot and Emma stayed in the back preparing their arts, Gaius and Jusis attacked from the sides, Fie took advantage of her position and shot from behind while Machias and Alisa did the same from the front, and Rean and Laura aimed for its front legs.

Slowly but surely the damage started to add up, the creature been too overwhelmed to try and do something against the constant barrage of attacks; out of desperation it did a 360 spin forcing the close range attackers to jump back it then aimed its left front claw towards the closest objective, this being Rean.

His first instinct was to dodge he had more than enough time since, probably due to the pain, the attack was really slow compared to what he had to dodge at the start of the battle but something told him there wasn't any need, it wasn't something he saw there was simply a feeling, so instead he prepared another quick draw of his sword and moved forward, now there wasn't any chance to avoid.

If the hit connected it would at the very least leave a very large wound in his head, not to mention it could kill him, but when the claw was near its target Gaius hit it by sending a gust of wind from his spear making it miss its target completely, not wasting time Rean immediately unsheathed his sword cutting the front leg around half-way; the gargoyle gave another roar of pain but didn't have much time to focus on that when several arrows started to hit it, one finding its way in its mouth.

Rean started to run around the monster, passing Gaius who once again started to attack, once he was near its back it moved its tail trying to hit him but he ducked, instead of standing up though he kept his position as Fie came running and jumped using his back, now several feet above the creature she started to shoot repeatedly at its right wing when she finally came down on top of it she used her gunswords to cut it off.

From the right side Jusis prepared a thrust of his sword aiming for its relatively undamaged front leg, that part was without a doubt one of the hardest and if he simply attacked it wouldn't do any significant damage but just before he started to move Machias shot another break shot at the exact spot he was aiming breaking part of its armor and making it easy for him to sink his sword till the hilt.

Rean had once again started his run around the monster now standing at its right a few feet away, it seemed to be about to throw fire at them but Elliot and Emma used Aqua Bleed and Luminous Ray, the pain alone not allowing it to go through with it.

Almost everyone took a step back except for Rean and Laura, both of them standing at opposite sides and at the same time lunging at it; Laura jumped high in the air holding her bastard sword over her head while Rean kept himself low, they reached its neck at the exact same time and cut up and down, their swords meeting at the middle but not hitting each other only passing near.

As they finished their cut the gargoyle's head fell from its body turning to stone before disappearing in a purple glow, the body quickly doing the same.

"I-it…" Elliot stammered; the realization that they had won coming to him.

"We did it!" Alisa celebrated before everyone drew their weapons and moved forming a circle at the middle of the room.

"I think that's the end of it". Emma said with a relieved sigh.

"At the very least, that creature doesn't seem like it'll be coming back for a rematch anytime soon". The foreigner of the group agreed.

Everyone stood silent for a few seconds until Elliot asked what was in everyone's minds.

"What happened there, anyway?" He said putting a hand in his chin in thought. "Right at the end of the battle".

"I DID feel something wash over me for a second there". Alisa added.

"It was like each of us were engulfed in some faint, blue light". Machias said thinking back.

"What…?" Jusis trailed off wanting to know what happened.

"I did notice something as we fought". Laura commented. "Perhaps it was just the blur of combat…" Although she said this, she didn't sound like she believed that. "…but I felt like I could see everyone's movements in precise detail".

"I don't think it was just your imagination". Fie said.

"Agreed, I have a feeling what we just experienced was-".

"The biggest selling point of the almighty ARCUS?" Rean was interrupted by the voice of Instructor Sara coming from the exit. "Give this man a prize!"

They all looked in the direction of the voice to see Sara standing halfway down the stairs.

"Looks like friendship and teamwork save the day once again! I'm so proud of you guys!" As she said that she made her way down standing in front of the students that were now standing in a line. "Anyway, that about finishes up today's special… orienteering… exercise…" She trailed off noticing all the looks she was getting from the teens. "Aww, what's with the long faces? I thought you'd all be happy!"

"Wh-what are we supposed to be happy about?!" Machias half yelled.

"I have so many questions; I'm not even sure where to start". Alisa said crossing her arms.

"I'll take a stab at it". The other blond in the room said. "What exactly is the purpose behind this 'Class VII'?"

"I mean, we get that it's supposed to be some sort of melting pot that includes a broad cross-section of people…" Emma added.

"But why were the nine of us chosen, in particular?" Laura finished.

"Hmm… that IS a valid question". The instructor answered. "There's no single monolithic reason why you all made the list but if I had to name a major contributing factor, it'd be those ARCUS orbments you've got there".

Every student widened their eyes in surprise, some more than others, and took out their ARCUS.

"How so?" Rean asked.

"Well, like I explained earlier, the ARCUS units are developed jointly by the Epstein Foundation and the Reinford Company". The instructor started to answer. "Like any battle orbment, they let you use arts, and these have communication functionality built right in but their crowning feature is what's known as combat linking; that's the phenomenon you all experienced just now".

"So that's what that was". Alisa murmured.

"Seems like a pretty apt term; it did feel like we were all connected, somehow". Elliot conceded.

"Precisely! Doesn't take a genius to imagine how much of an advantage a feature like that would be on a real battlefield. An elite unit that can sense each other's movements, acting in perfect sync, even in the most chaotic conditions...you can hardly put a price on that!" The pink haired woman explained. "It could bring about a revolution in the way wars are fought!" She added.

"Hmm...It does sound rather..." Laura began.

"Idealistic". Fie finished.

"Well, yeah, the technology has its limits. Some have a natural aptitude for it. Others just...don't. And out of this year's fresh batch of bright eyed students, the nine of you turned out to have the highest aptitude. And since aptitude trumps background in Class VII, well...here you are." The instructor finished her explanation.

"But what gives us this aptitude, though, as compared to our peers?" The green haired teen asked. "It just seems so...random."

"What indeed!" She said a bit overdramatically. "As promised, if any of you have objections to being in this class, speak now or forever hold your peace".

"This isn't a marriage is it?" Rean murmured to himself, if the instructor heard him she pretended not to listen.

"I think that pretty much explains the hows and whys of your situation". The oldest of them started to talk again before anyone could answer to what was said before. "But this program isn't cheap to run, so we're not about to force anyone into it if they don't want to be here; you should also be aware that Class VII's curriculum will be tougher than any other class' coursework, just fair warning". She made a pause before asking again, this time wanting an answer. "So now you know and that leaves you all with an important decision to make: will you stick with Class VII, or not?"

Silence was the only thing in the room for several seconds as everyone looked at each other wondering what to do, seeing this Sara seemed to remember something she forgot to say.

"If you opt out, you'll just be placed in the class you would've been assigned otherwise; there's no pressure". She said to give them all some peace of mind. "It's still the first day so there's no real catching up you'd have to do. I'm sure you'd fit in just fine".

Once again there was silence but it only lasted for around two seconds before Rean took a step forward.

"I'll do it; whatever Class VII has to throw at me, I'm game". Almost everyone was surprised by that statement.

"So you're the first then". Sara said pleased. "You seem pretty sure about, any particular reason?"

"Not really". The swordsman shrugged. "I just feel like I've put my family out, asking them to send me to this school; so if it gives me more to show for my time here, I'll take whatever opportunities come my way".

"A noble sentiment". Sara said with 'mmm' before Laura also took a step forward.

"Count me in as well, the greater the challenge the more I can push myself to excel; one can't hone a blade without grit, after all".

"Let's make it three". Gaius said imitating their classmates. "Considering how far I came to attend this school, it'd be silly to back down before I even started".

"Well, looks like we have the country's strongest freshman on board, and our foreign exchange student too". The instructor said happily. "Any more takers?"

This time Emma took a step forward. "Allow me to take part as well, I was only able to come because of the school's generosity so I feel it's my duty to help in any way I can".

"S-sing me up too!" Although he stuttered Elliot also accepted. "I kinda feel like fate brought us here for a reason, you know? And you all seem pretty easy to get along with".

"And that's a yes from out two orbal staff testers, though I feel compelled to remind you; your weapons are still on the prototype stage, so on top of your other work, I'll be expecting reports from both of you".

"Of course".

"Maybe I spoke too soon". Emma and Elliot answered, in that order.

"Let me join too". Alisa said.

"Oh? There's a surprise, I was almost certain your rebellious streak would see you opt out just on general principle". Sara voiced her surprise.

"It does bother me that you've got us using these ARCUS units that are still pretty clearly on development but if I let every little nitpick like that hold me back; I'll never amount to much".

"Words to live by right there". The pink haired woman said with a chuckle. "And that brings us to an even six; what about you Fie?"

All eyes were then in the silver haired girl.

"Don't really care either way, you can choose".

"Not this time, this is one call you're gonna have to make for yourself; that was the deal, remember? You need to take control of your own life".

'I'm guessing they know each other somehow'. Rean thought after seeing that exchange.

"Bah… fine I'm in". Fie answered although her tone caused most of the class to sweat drop.

"We've got a magnificent seven now". The instructor looked to the opposite side from Fie to Jusis and Machias. "Which leaves just the two of you". Both of the teens seemed conflicted but more because they didn't want to be classmates than because of the Class VII business. "I can see that you've got issues with each other, but that doesn't mean you can't at least TRY to work together". The disgust on their faces at that notion was apparent but Sara ignored it and continued. "Why, if you just look past your differences and embrace the joys of youth, I'm sure you'll become the best of friends!" And with those words the relatively calm atmosphere was broken.

"LIKE HELL WE WILL!" Machias yelled at the top of his lungs. "The exploitation of the common people by the aristocracy is a blight on every facet of Erebonian life! Unless something is done about it, this country has no future!"

"I appreciate your candor but I don't think you're going to achieve much by lecturing me about it". The oldest of them told him nonchalantly.

"Well, at least that makes this simple". Jusis spoke. "I, Jusis Albarea, claim my place as a member of Class VII". Several heads were turned in his direction at hearing this.

"Wh-why?!" Machias once again yelled. "You're the son of a duke! Just the thought of being in the same class as commoners should make you sick!"

"I don't think you're being fair here Machias". Rean said but was ignored when Jusis spoke once again.

"I'll thank you not to tell me how I'm supposed to feel". The blond noble said calmly. "As far as the house of Albarea is concerned, there's little difference between other nobles and commoners; besides this should at least ensure I won't have fools flitting about every day trying to win my favor". Machias seemed speechless having heard this. "That said, I have little interest in getting drawn into your petty arguments on a daily basis either, I think it would be prudent for us to go our separate ways; I'm certain we can at least agree on this, no?"

"I DON'T NEED SOME POMPOUS ASS WHO COASTS THROUGH LIFE ON HIS FATHER'S COATTAILS TELLING ME WHAT TO DO!" With those words Machias took a step forward. "I'm in, come hell or high water! You might've had your success spoon-fed to you up to now, but no outmoded class system is going to hand you trophies anymore!"

"We'll see about that". Jusis answered smugly.

Everyone else couldn't help but sweat drop at their bantering.

"They're going to be like this pretty much all year, aren't they?" Rean asked no one in particular.

"Probably". Fie answered, everyone else nodding in agreement.

"Well, how about that! Nine out of nine!" The oldest in the room said once again gaining the attention of the, now, members of Class VII. "With that, I'd like to congratulate all of you on being the first-ever Class VII! I hope you keep those high spirits all year, 'cause with the workload we've got planned for you, you'll need it!"

And on that day, Class VII was stablished.

Chapter Text

"So… we get a whole dorm just for the nine of us?" Rean voiced what was in everyone's minds seeing the building in front of them near the train station.

After they had left the old schoolhouse Sara told them to follow her so she can show where they'll be staying, everyone thought they would be shown to either the upper or lower class dorms, depending if they're nobles or commoners, since the existence of the two dorms was common knowledge so when their instructor kept walking past them and guided them to this building… they were surprised to say the least.

"Ten actually, I'll be living here too" The Instructor answered happily. "This is a co-ed dorm after all, we can't leave a group of young men and women alone, who knows what they would do?" She teased, earning a few blushes and making some members of the class to glance at the others.

"What about our luggage?" Gaius asked, being one of the few that didn't pay any mind to the previous comment.

"Oh, it's already here at the first floor, you guys pick your rooms and move them". She opened the doors. "Second floor for the boys and third for the girls, without further ado welcome to the third dormitory".

Everyone entered and looked around, this first floor seemed to be a common area; there was a table with two couches on either side that you see as soon as you enter, several mailboxes with different numbers at the right, to the left there was a double-door open and showing what looked like the dining room and a kitchen.

"That's a kitchen, is someone gonna cook for us?" Alisa asked curiously.

"You guys can cook if you want but don't expect me to make breakfast or anything; I don't know the first thing about cooking". The oldest of them answered. "So, any volunteers for being the dorm's chef?"

No one made a sound and not really caring about it Sara just shrugged.

"Anyway, those things there are your luggage, get it and start settling in". She pointed to a variety of cases and boxes near the stairs to the upper floors.

Everyone did as told and started to settle in, by the time they finished it was almost time for dinner.

"Anyone knows how to cook?" Sara asked after everyone had come to the dinner room, more than one person groaned. "Come on, I'm not saying you have to become the chef of the dorm but just for tonight, pretty please?"

"Instructor, I think we're all tired because of roaming around in that dungeon". Emma answered and she was right, not everyone showed it like Elliot, who kept bobbing his head up trying to stay awake, but everyone seemed to be tired to some degree.

"Some teenagers you are, you should still be full of energy; if you're tired this early in the evening then how will it be when you're older?"

"I can't find it in me to care to be honest". Rean answered earning a few grunts of approval.

"Fine, have it your way then". Their instructor sighed before getting up and walk out of the room, just to come back a minute later with something in her hand. "There is a café nearby that stays open till late, the two people who draw the short stick go and buy for everyone".

"That seems fair". Gaius agreed after everyone stood silent for a few minutes.

"Yes, I believe this is a good way to decide". Laura supported.

'Something tells me I'm gonna draw the short stick'. Rean thought, knowing his terrible luck when it comes to things like this.

"Hmph, let's get this over with". Jusis scoffed.

Everyone then got up and one by one they started to draw sticks.

"Alright, now show them". Sara ordered, one of the sticks on her hand, one by one they showed them and the two 'winners' were revealed. "Rean, Fie, you're in charge of getting us food here is some money, now go". She all but kicked them out and shoved the door in their faces.

"…let's get this over with". Fie said as she started to walk with a bored look on her face.

"Why did I know that I would draw the short stick?" Rean asked himself.

They walked in silence for a while until Rean decided to try and strike a conversation.

"So, anything you'd like to get from that café?"

"Hmm, not really". The silver haired girl answered with a shrug.

"You sure? Since they didn't ask for anything in particular we can get whatever we want".

"You can choose".

"…Ok?" They kept silent until they reached the café and entered.

"Welcome, table for two?" The owner asked as they entered.

"Take out actually, we need for ten people". Rean told him the situation and asked how much he could get with the mira Sara gave him.

"Sorry kid, but even if I gave you the cheapest I have that still wouldn't cover it".

'I've only met the women for a day and for some reason I am not surprised she wouldn't give me enough mira'. The teen thought before sighing.

"Please give us that cheapest for ten people, I'll cover the difference". Rean said showing his wallet.

"Marching, please wait a few minutes, you can sit in one of the tables if you want".

"Thanks". Rean thanked him and both Fie and he took him up on his offer.

Once again silence made itself present; probably due to the hour there weren't many people in the café.

"So, you know the instructor from somewhere?" The black haired teen tried to make conversation once again.

"Why do you ask?"

"That conversation you two had back at the dungeon struck me as odd if you're strangers".

"We know each other". Fie answered with a nod but didn't bother to explain.

"…so you like to take naps in benches?"

Maybe a bit surprised for the sudden change in conversation she didn't answer immediately.

"You're not gonna ask how we know each other?"

"I've got a feeling you don't want to tell me". Rean answered with a shrug. "So, naps in benches?"

She eyed him for a while before shrugging.

"You kn-"

"Sorry for the wait". The owner called them showing the food.

"Thanks, what's the difference?" The older of the two teens had already taken out his wallet before asking.

"Don't worry, this time I'll forgive the rest but don't get used to it".

"Thanks and I won't, see ya". They said their goodbyes and started to carry the food, half each, back to the dorm.

"You guys took your time". Sara said as soon as they walked in.

"We're still new to this place, give us a break". Rean defended before starting to pass the food to everyone.

"This is what you bought?" The oldest in the room said. "This is the cheapest stuff".

"And the money you gave me wasn't even enough for that". He said passing one to Fie.

"What? That's not true". Their Instructor said as if she was offended. "I gave you more than enough".

"No, you didn't". Fie confirmed taking a bite.

"There you have it".

"This isn't bad". Elliot said after taking a bite. "If this is the cheapest then I wonder what the most expensive stuff would taste like".

His opinion was shared by the other members of Class VII and after everyone finished they called it a day.

The next day passed rather quickly, aside from their homeroom teacher they got to know the rest of the staff; namely Instructor Neithardt in charge of military studies, Instructor Thomas in charge of teaching history and literature, although he seemed more bias to the former, Instructor Makarov, for some reason he gave off a vibe of wanting to do as little as possible but is in charge of both biology and orbal engineering, Instructor Beatrix in charge of medical studies and probably the easiest to get along with, she had this 'aura' sort of speak of someone you can talk about your problems with and finally Instructor Mary the fine arts teacher.

It was mostly presentation and saying what to expect from the curriculum.

The week passed and now it was Friday.

"So, today we'll be practicing how to create a successful combat link". Sara said, Class VII was in the academy field for their combat training. "Some of you are probably thinking 'but we already did that' and let me tell you, that you're wrong".

"So what we did in the old schoolhouse wasn't a combat link?" Emma asked politely.

"No, that's not what I meant". The Instructor answered waving a hand. "That was a combat link but it was done in the heat of battle because of a 'do or die' situation; so today we'll be practicing how to do that without a giant monster threatening to eat you".

"I find it a bit unnerving that you can say those words so nonchalantly". Alisa said giving a half opened look to their teacher.

"And since that thing was brought up I have to ask, what would you have done if one of us was hurt or worse during that 'orienteering exercise'?" Machias asked adjusting his glasses.

"All right then, let's get this started shall we?"

"Could you please answer the question?!" Despite his protest Sara just kept smiling and explaining what they'll be doing.

"We'll start by having one of you try to link with all the others, one at the time just to be clear, any volunteers?" No one raised their hand or took a step forwards so. "Well then, eenie meenie- Laura would you mind?"

"Not at all". The blue haired swordswoman answered taking a step forward.

"Since none of you seem to want to offer we'll just start from my left and work until everyone had a turn".

"Then I guess I'm up first". Gaius said as he also took a step forward.

"Maybe it's a bit late to ask, but how exactly are we supposed to form a combat link?" Rean asked noticing that the only other time they've done that was, as their Instructor put it, a 'do or die' situation.

"Oh, just concentrate and it will work out". The pink haired woman answered nonchalantly.

'I don't consider myself to be quick to judge but how did you become a teacher?' The black haired teen thought.

"Forming a combat link is mostly feeling and instinct, the better you get along can also influence it but in the end there is no trick, you just have to try".

Without having any other guidance Gaius and Laura started to concentrate on forming one, it took some time but eventually a blue circle appeared beneath them connected by a line of the same color.

"Alright, that's one". Sara said happily. "Let's keep going".

Gaius went back to his position and the next person took his place, after around fifteen minutes everyone had a turn with Laura and so they changed the fixed person.

They repeated this until everyone had made a combat link with everyone, some were harder than others, like Machias and Jusis whose combat link lasted for a literal blink of an eye but since it took them fifteen minutes to just manage that Sara decided that it would have to do.

Right now it was Rean's turn as the 'fixed link' although it didn't really matter at this point since he only needed to link with one other of his classmates; there wasn't any point on making the previous 'fixed links' to form another one, not to mention that if Machias and Jusis had to try that again it would probably eat out their remaining time and they still wouldn't get it right.

"Ok then, Fie your turn".

Said girl walked keeping the same bored look she wore for most of the time, not two seconds later they had already formed a combat link.

"Oh that was fast, you two practicing without me knowing?" Although the question sounded innocent enough her tone seemed to be suggesting something else.

"Do you have to ask that, with that tone, every time I link with one of the girls?" Rean asked with a sigh, for some reason he had been able to form a combat link with everyone with little to no trouble, aside from Machias who took around half a minute, Jusis taking a similar amount of time, although he took time with everyone, and Alisa that got flustered due to one of the Instructor's 'helpful comments', he had managed to form a combat link with everyone in record time, maintaining it was a different issue, the ones holding that record been Emma and Alisa with three minutes.

"I'm sure you realize now but forming a combat link and maintaining it are two different issues-"

"Do you enjoy ignoring your students?"

"-with time and practice you'll reach a point where you can form and maintain it without even thinking about it". Sara just kept going not paying attention to Rean's inquiry. "But there is no need to try and rush that, you just keep practicing and it will come naturally".

Almost as if it was rehearsed the bell rang just as she finished talking and everyone went back to the classroom.

"So, this concludes today's classes but before you go there is something you have to decide". Class VII's homeroom teacher said with a bit of seriousness in her voice.

"Something we have to decide?" Laura repeated, voicing everyone's confusion.

"Yes, you have to…" She made a rather long pause but whatever tension she caused was washed away by the next sentence. "…pick a class president and vice-president". Almost everyone were about to fall off their chairs after hearing that.

"Was it necessary to sound so ominous just for that?" Rean asked.

"You don't have to do it right now but try to have made up your mind by Monday, if not then you'll have to vote in the spot". With those words she left the classroom.

Most of the members of Class VII then left the classroom, the only ones left been Rean, Elliot and Gaius; maybe because of teaming up during the dungeon they usually hang out together after class.

"So who do you guys think should be class president?" Elliot asked, wanting to hear their opinion.

"I'm not sure; the concept is unknown to me". The tallest of them answered before asking. "What exactly does been class president entail?"

"Well, it's more or less been the one responsible for dealing with class related issues, like for example… let's say a teacher needs to have a document signed by the whole class, said teacher would go to the class president to ask that they pass it along" Rean explained.

"I see".

"Why don't you try Gaius?" Elliot suggested.

"Thanks but I'm not sure I could do a good job, there are still a lot of things I don't understand about this country". Gaius answered calmly. "What about you Rean?"

"Me?" The swordsman repeated a bit surprised. "Nah, I don't see myself been class president".

"The same could be said from me, so I guess none of us wants that spot". Elliot added. "Well, then what about the rest of our classmates who would you choose as class president?"

"Hmm… what about you Elliot who would you choose?" Rean asked back.

"W-well… I think maybe Emma or Laura could be a good choice". The red head answered. "I've got a feeling Jusis wouldn't want the job, Machias has some… strong opinions".

'You are too polite Elliot'. His friend thought.

"Maybe Alisa could do a good job but for some reason I think the other two would be better at it and Fie seems like she only wants to sleep".

"I see your point". Gaius concluded. "Both seem responsible and capable so they would probably be a good choice".

"Yeah, maybe". Rean answered vaguely. "What do you say if we think about this after we get something to eat?"

"Sure".

"I like that idea". Elliot and Gaius agreed.

They made their way out of the main building and into Trista; they went to Kirsche's café, ordered and sat down in one of the tables. They talked a bit more about the class president thing but in the end they didn't make more progress on it.

The next day passed without anything of note during classes; afterwards Elliot and Gaius said that they'll go take a look at the clubs, Rean lagged behind to get a grab his things but afterwards decided to do the same.

'Let's see what clubs are here'. He thought making his way towards the gymnasium when something caught his eye. 'Is that… Emma?' He saw her getting something from the ground and looking a bit distressed. 'I wonder what's up'.

"What should I do?" He heard her mutter while approaching.

"Hey Emma, something wrong?" He asked causing her to yelp.

"Oh, it's you Rean". She said with a relieved sigh.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you". The swordsman apologized. "What do you have there?"

"Oh, this?" Emma showed him what looked like a student notebook. "I just found it here in the ground, I was wondering if I should give it to one of the teachers".

"…that's one option but from what you tell me you're thinking of something else".

"Yes, I was thinking of see if I can find the person who lost it". She confessed.

"I think if you just give it to one of the teachers they would make sure that the person who lost it gets it back". The black haired teen said.

"That's true but the teachers are busy and if this person happens to need it for something or is looking for it now giving it to one of the teachers might do more harm than good".

'Hmm, that is true'. Rean put a hand in his chin, a habit of his when he is thinking. 'Our teachers… most of our teachers are usually busy with something'. He took a look at Emma that kept staring at the notebook. "How about we see if we can find the owner?"

"Eh, really?"

"Sure, I was gonna look for clubs but I can do that later". He assured her. "For now, let's see who it belongs to".

Emma opened the first page and showed the picture of a girl wearing the Thors uniform for commoners.

"It says her name is Collette and she is from Class IV, Year 1". Emma read aloud.

"We should start with her classroom". Rean suggested, she nodded and they made their way back to the main building and to Class IV's classroom.

"Collette? Sorry she already left". One of Class IV's members told them when they asked. "I heard she was going to a boutique in Trista, what was its name… 'sage' or something like that?"

"Thank you for your time". Emma thanked him with a bow, I did the same and we left. "I guess I should go there and see if I can find her, thanks for your help Rean".

"Wait, you're going alone?"

"Oh, I thought you would want to go check the clubs".

"There's still time, I already agreed to help I'm not gonna stop halfway".

"…I see, thank you".

After that exchange they made their way towards the town and to that boutique.

"Excuse me". Emma called out to a girl wearing Thors' uniform looking at some clothes.

"Yes, can I help you?" Said girl asked.

"Sorry to bother you, are you Collette from Class IV?" The bespectacled girl asked politely.

"Yes, that's me".

"I believe this is yours". She handed over her notebook.

"Wha- this is my notebook?!" She checked her pockets and noticed that it wasn't there. "Thank you; I didn't even realize I lost it!"

"It was no trouble, I'm glad we were able to bring it back to you". Emma assured her.

"Really thank you". She said again putting her notebook away and muttering something about 'why this keeps happening?'

"We'll leave you to your shopping then". Emma and Rean said their goodbyes and left the store.

"Well, that's one less thing to worry about". Rean said after they left.

"Yes, I'm glad we were able to find the owner". Emma agreed. "Thank you for your help too".

"I didn't do much, I just followed along mostly".

"Even so I appreciate the company". She insisted.

"Well, you're welcome then". Rean looked at the sky, the sun was about to set. "I'll go do a quick look at the clubs before school closes, what are you gonna do?"

"Hmm, I heard some people talking about a bookstore here; I think I'll go check it out".

"Alright, see you at the dorm". They waved goodbye and Rean made his way to the school grounds, there wasn't too much time so he went to the student union building instead of the gymnasium, since it was closer to the entrance.

He couldn't look around much before the bell signalizing that school is closing rang and he had to leave.

'Oh well, I can always check them tomorrow'. He thought with a shrug. "I think it'll be a good day".

He was oh so wrong.

"What are you talking about, we were here first!"

"It doesn't matter, we told you to leave".

For some reason he ended up in the middle of a shouting match between members of two classes, Class III and Class I to be exact.

The guys from Class III were having lunch break in a spot behind the main building when the ones from Class I appeared and 'politely asked' that they get away.

Needless to say the members of Class III didn't take this well.

'Not that I blame them'. Rean thought seeing them continue with their argument, if it even could be called that. 'If I try to play mediator, what can I say?' He ran a mental simulation of how things would turn out depending on what he says; first the idea of saying 'the guys from the upper class are right' was completely and utterly destroyed, it didn't take a genius to see that they were in the wrong but making them admit that would probably require Aidios herself to come down.

Next was saying 'why don't you share the space there is more than enough', it was better than the one before but there was a good chance the nobles would answer with something among the lines of 'share the place with this rabble?' as if it was something ludicrous and the group from Class III wouldn't be too thrilled about it either.

Last but not least was the 'you nobles are wrong, you should leave', as much as he would like to say this the chances of them actually listening were even lower than from the previous idea.

'No choice, I'll go find a teacher'. Just as he was about to get up and leave to do that.

"What seems to be the problem?" Instructor Beatrix appeared.

"Instructor, these guys are saying that we have to leave when we were here first". One of the guys from Class III said.

"Is that true?" She wasn't asking her tone made it clear that she already knew what was happening and it seemed like the temperature dropped various degrees as soon as she finished talking. "I know that everyone has their own opinions but you shouldn't try to force others to do things they don't want".

Someone from Class I hmph-ed, although it sounded a bit like a whimper, and said something about 'we wasted enough time already' before everyone left.

Class III's members thanked the instructor and went back to their lunch.

Rean followed Instructor Beatrix with his gaze for a while when she stopped and said something to Machias.

'So he called her huh?' Rean was mildly surprised that he didn't enter the fray and started saying a lot of things to the nobles. 'Admittedly, this time you would have had a good reason'.

Lunch came to an end and everyone returned to their classrooms.

Before anyone knew it Monday came and it passed, during their last hour of school.

"So, you decided who would be class president?" Sara asked her answer was a lot of silence. "Then I guess we're voting".

"Instructor".

"Yes, Rean?"

"Can we nominate people for the job?"

"Sure thing, got someone in mind?"

"Yes". He confirmed. "I'd like to nominate Emma for class president".

"Eh?!" The one named couldn't help but react rather loudly at this; the others either didn't care or looked at Rean with curiosity.

"Interesting choice, any reason?"

"I think she would be good for the job". He answered vaguely.

"Ah I see, so now you're going to nominate yourself for vic-"

"I nominate Machias for vice-president". The swordsman had a feeling that if he let her finish it would lead to trouble in the future.

"HUH?!" This time Machias reacted loudly.

"Another interesting choice but how about you tell us a bit more about why, and don't try to dodge the question".

"Fine". Rean sighed in defeat before explaining what happened in the weekend with the missing notebook and then the argument between the two classes where Machias went to get a teacher.

"That happened?" Elliot asked a bit surprised.

"Yep". His friend answered simply. "Aside from that they're both hard workers, smart and responsible; I think they would make a good job"

"Any objections or other candidates?" The homeroom teacher asked, once again she was met with silence but for a different reason. "Alright then, I guess the job is yours"

"Y-yes".

"I'll do my best". Emma and Machias said standing up.

"Alright, then as your first order of business how about you two dismiss the class".

"All rise". They said at the same time, the class complying. "Bow".

"See you tomorrow". Sara waved them goodbye and the classes for the day ended.

Rean, Gaius and Elliot stood around the classroom for a few minutes and were about to leave when Machias approached them.

"Rean, can I ask you something?"

"Sure". He answered.

"Why did you nominate me for vice-president?"

"…didn't I already give my reasons before?"

"True but my question is more of 'why vice-president and not president?'" He elaborated. "It's not that I have something against Emma and I am certain she'll do a great job, I'm just curious about your reasoning".

"Hmm, short answer is that you're too hotheaded for the job".

"…I'm sorry?" Confusion was clearly spread in his features, Elliot and Gaius on the other hand seemed to understand what he meant.

"If you're class president then you'll probably have to talk with other class presidents or at the very least you'll meet some, if they're from one of the upper classes then you'd probably end up arguing for some reason". Rean explained. "I'm not saying that said argument wouldn't be justified but at least from what I know of you there is a chance it wouldn't be".

"…I see". Machias seemed to accept that explanation and said a quick 'excuse me' before leaving.

"So that was your reason for deciding like that". Elliot thought aloud, talking about his black haired friend.

"Yep". He simply answered as they made their way out of the classroom. "Emma seems to be a bit too polite so if an argument broke out she probably would try to mediate and find a solution everyone agrees on; sadly, if what happened two days ago is any indication, some people won't care about a fair solution".

"And that's where Machias as vice-president comes in?" Gaius asked, although it sounded like he already knew the answer.

"You guessed it, if such a situation ever happened then Machias' 'hotheadness' will come in handy". Rean explained, once he finished Elliot started to chuckle. "What?"

"If you thought that much about it I feel like I should have nominated you". The red haired teen answered, Rean simply shrugged.

The three split ways after a while, Elliot apparently already decided which club to join and wanted to see how to apply, Gaius wanted to go grab something from Kirsche and Rean wanted to do a final look around the clubs.

'They seem nice but I don't feel any of them clicking with me'. He had spent a good amount of time looking at the several clubs Thors had. 'I think I'll go practice for a while'.

With that thought he went near the old schoolhouse, no one ever seemed to be around there and, for what he was practicing, that was a good thing.

He left his bag in one of the benches and unsheathed his sword, which he always brought due to the combat training they have to do, and stood with his back to the building.

'Let's try this again'. He closed his eyes and assumed a stance with his sword.

...

'Allright, that's enough for today'. He brushed off some sweat from his forehead before sheathing his sword. 'School must be about to close'. He thought looking at the sky were the sun was about to set.

He grabbed his things and left.

'I think I'll grab something from the cafeteria before leaving'. Even though the third dormitory had a kitchen so far it hasn't been used, every member of Class VII always bought something to eat either from the school or from Kirsche.

Rean was about to make a bee line for the Student union building where the cafeteria was but something caught his eye, more specifically someone.

Laying down in one of the benches was Fie fast asleep.

'She really sleeps a lot'. The teen thought remembering that aside from class he usually finds her sleeping like this in different places. "Hey Fie". He moved her shoulder a bit to wake her up, she grunted a bit before opening her eyes halfway.

"What is it?" She asked yawning.

"School is about to close". Her classmate told her.

"I see". The silver haired girl answered with a bored look stifling another yawn. "I'll see you at the dorm".

"Ah, wait". She was about to walk away when Rean called out. "Look I'm not one to tell people what to do but you shouldn't be sleeping in places like this".

"…why?" Fie asked tilting her head.

"Because if someone less scrupulous were to find you there would be trouble".

"You don't have to worry".

"Yeah and tomorrow doesn't have to come". The swordsman answered sarcastically.

"We barely know each other, why do you worry?" She gave him a half eyed look as if what he did seem silly.

"I'm nosy and I can't help but worry about the people I know or will get to know". He answered with a shrug when another sound caught both of their attentions… Rean's stomach. "I was going to grab something to eat, want to come?"

"I'm fine, see you later".

"…Alright, see ya". He gave up on convincing her of not sleeping outside for now. "Well, judging by how often she's done that she must be used to it and nothing bad has happened so far, I'll trust it'll stay like that for now".

And so the day came to an end.

Chapter Text

Time passed and it was now the middle of April, everyone had more or less gotten used to their classes and general life at Trista.

Rean was now in his room preparing for another day of school, he looked himself in the mirror while making his tie to make sure he got it right.

'And to think there was a time when I would get my hands all tangled up while doing this'. He thought with a chuckle remembering when his father thought him how to make a tie… it didn't go well at first. 'Well, I think it's about time to go'.

Finally ready he went to the double layered shelf at the opposite wall from his desk. His room, and as far as he knows every other room, was the same except for whatever personal touches each member of Class VII decided to add to it, there was a bed, obviously, at the opposite wall from the door parallel to said wall and the head touching the right wall if you're standing at the door with a bedside table, a hanger where his tachi sat on its sheathe when it wasn't in use at training, a desk at the left wall with some books on it, two windows and a wardrobe right next to the aforementioned shelf.

Said shelf contained a fishing rod with some baits and a few boxes with personnel effects at the lower part, in the upper part there was a camera and the reason he went to the shelf in the first place; a picture of his family they took before he left for Thors.

He let a small smile form on his lips before finally going out of his room.

"Oh, Rean!" He heard someone call him.

"Morning, Elliot". The black haired teen said to his friend, aside from him and Gaius he didn't talk much with the rest of his classmates.

Machias still seemed to be a bit conscious of the fact he is a noble, for some reason he only argues (loudly) with Jusis and not him though, said noble usually left as soon as classes were over to be alone, Alisa and Emma were friendly enough but usually did their own thing, the same could be said from Laura, and Fie usually spent her afternoons sleeping.

"Good morning". The red haired greeted back. "Are you heading to school now too? How about we walk there together?"

"Sure". This wasn't the first time they walked there together, sometimes Gaius would come too but since he's a really early riser most times he was already gone. "It's getting late, though, so we might need to pick up the pace a little".

"No problem". Elliot answered turning around. "You think we should ask Gaius if he wants to come?"

"He's probably long gone, he's an early riser; plus I'm not sensing anyone in this floor".

"O-oh… okay, then". He said a bit confused.

"Something wrong?"

"N-no, nothing, let's get going". Elliot said before they both started to walk for the stairs. 'What does that mean, that he's not 'sensing' anyone?'

When they made it to the first floor, to their surprise they found Emma and Alisa talking.

"Morning". They both greeted.

"Oh, good morning". Emma answered.

"Everything okay?" Alisa asked.

"Yeah, just finished getting ready". Rean answered. "You guys going to school now too?"

"Yes, we were about to go". Alisa answered.

"How about we all go together?" The brunette offered.

"That's fine by me". Elliot said, the other two nodded in agreement and the four of them left the dorm.

"So, how's life at the academy been treating you?" Alisa asked to make conversation.

"So far so good, I could get a bit better in the academic part". Rean answered first.

"At first I thought that combat practice would be the toughest part, I never would've guesses academic side of things might give it a run for its money". Elliot said next.

"I'm not too confident about combat practice but I think I'm doing well at the rest". Emma said last. "What about you Alisa?"

"Same as you".

"It really surprised me that it would be this tough". The red head of the group said.

"Well, 'strong in body and mind' is pretty firmly embedded into Imperial culture". The swordsman answered. "I get what you mean, though. I figured I'd be able to coast through the year, but I've had to very quickly reevaluate that".

"You too, huh?" Elliot said with a sigh.

"I'm sure you'll be alright, you two aren't the type to slack off". Emma encouraged

"I wish I were smart as you or Machias". Was the response from Elliot. "You don't seem to be having any problems at all".

"Oh, that's not true at all".

"Yes it is". Alisa said to Emma. "I'm pretty sure I could ask you anything of what we already learned, and some things we still haven't learned, and you would answer easily".

"Seconded". Rean supported.

"Really it's not like that at all". The bespectacled girl defended.

"Where did Emperor Dreichels first began gathering his army?" Alisa asked out of nowhere.

"The Nord Highlands". And she got an immediate response.

"See?" Emma only blushed a bit embarrassed that Alisa tricked her.

"Well, academics aside, do you guys have any idea about what to do with our two… erm… let's say prideful warriors?"

"Elliot, I honestly think you're too polite sometimes". The black haired teen first answered. "But no, I have no idea".

"Maybe if we let them be, they'll work out their differences?" Emma offered.

"I don't know, it doesn't seem likely". The blond said.

"Well, at least we don't have you and Rean to worry about too". That comment got Alisa to look curiously at Elliot.

"What do you mean?" Rean asked before she could.

"You know because of what happened on the old schoolhouse". That got a blush from Alisa.

"What do you mean?" He repeated looking confused; Elliot seemed a bit surprised that he didn't get it.

"You know; the thing when you two fell in the trap door". Rean now looked more confused. "You don't remember?"

"Oh!" Suddenly Emma made a sound as if she got something. "Remember that he was asked to forget about it".

"And you shouldn't remember it either". Alisa added with a slight glare, Elliot chuckled nervously.

"Oh, that's where we'd be if we weren't in Class VII". The red headed quickly tried to change the subject by pointing out the dorm for the common people. "Well, most of us anyway".

"Yeah, I'd be over there". Rean said looking at the opposite side to the dorm for the nobles. "Now that I think about it… where would you be Alisa?"

"Eh?"

"Unless you're last name is literally one letter, which I don't believe but I could be wrong, where would you be?"

"I…" The blond thought for a moment looking at both dorms before. "I… don't know".

"What?" Elliot asked confused.

"How can you not know?" Emma added equally confused.

"W-well, i-it's complicated alright!" Before anyone could question her further an arrogant voice was heard.

"Hey, you're in our way, step aside at once". The group turned to the origin of the voice and saw three nobles, one that seemed to be the leader walking ahead of the other two. "Hmph, Class VII, I see". The one who seemed to be the leader looked at each member one by one.

"I-Is something the matter?" Elliot asked nervously.

"You're just a ragtag bunch of nobodies, aren't you?" He wasn't asking, it sounded more like an affirmation.

"And who are you to say that?" Alisa asked back with a half glare.

"Oh, I guess I should at least give my name; I am Patrick T. Hyarms, I am certain I don't need to say anything else". Patrick introduced himself.

'So he's from one of the Four Great Houses too'. Rean thought. 'Machias, I believe that at this moment I understand your feelings'.

"But as I said, you are in the way, move". He repeated himself.

"There is more than enough room for you to go". Alisa countered.

"Hmph, watch your tone, you're talking to someone from a higher position". One of Patrick's lackeys said.

"Oh really? I don't see that person anywhere". Before anyone could reply.

"Come on, we need to get going". Rean said placing a hand on Alisa's shoulder. "We're gonna be late otherwise". And without another word he started to walk to school, his three classmates soon followed him.

Patrick glared at their general direction as they left.

"Why did you do that?"

"We were gonna be late". Rean answered to Alisa with a shrug. "We would have had to move either way".

"Well yeah but…"

"I think this was the right decision". Emma said gaining their attention. "Nothing good would have come from arguing there".

"…yeah I guess you're right". The archer conceded. "But that guy was seriously getting on my nerves".

"This is why I hate talking to nobles". Elliot added to the conversation.

"Yeah I get what you mean". Rean agreed. "And I have to ask, was it only me or you guys also feel like you got inside Machias' head for a while?"

His answer was a 'yes' between chuckles.

"Hey you guys pick a club yet?" Elliot asked after they stopped laughing.

"I'm in the Lacrosse Club". The blonde of the group answered first.

"I decided to go to the Literature Club". Emma answered next.

"I joined the school band". The red head answered third. "What about you Rean?"

"I'm still looking; it's hard to decide on one".

Surprisingly, during history class Instructor Thomas asked the exact same question Alisa asked Emma as they went to school to Rean, thanks to that conversation he answered correctly.

The day passed by and it was their final period, homeroom with Instructor Sara.

"Nice work, everyone; you made it through another GRUELING day of classes!" She said near the end of the class a bit too overdramatically. "In case you've been living under a rock, please don't forget that tomorrow is your first 'free day'. It's not teeeeechnically a day off, but there are no classes, so it's up to you what to do with your time". She explained before giving some ideas. "Why, you could go shopping in the capital if you wanted to! ...Or just do what I do, and sleep all day. Sleep is so wonderful!"

'Agreed, but I don't think that would be a good way to use a free day'. Rean thought

"Um… will the academy's facilities still be open for our use?" The class president asked.

"Yes, I'd like to be able to use the free study area in the library myself". The vice-president added.

"Of course! This school shuts down for no one, so feel free to patronize any and all facilities as you like". Sara answered happily. "A lot of clubs have scheduled for these free days as well, so anyone who's joined one should probably check on that".

The members of Class VII who had joined a club made sure to keep that in mind.

"Also, before you leave, we should go over what's happening next week".

'Next week?' Most people thought.

"On Wednesday, you all have your practical exam".

"A… practical exam?" Rean asked voicing everyone's question.

"What does that entail exactly?" Alisa followed up.

"It's part of your combat training". The pink haired woman started to answer. "You'll be tested on your performance, so make sure you're well rested and ready for battle by then! It might be a good idea to do some training on your own time, too, just to keep from getting rusty".

There were a few different reactions, those who found it noteworthy, others who got nervous and… others who didn't really care.

"Oh, and one more thing! After the practical exam is over, I've got another important announcement..."

"About what?"

"…about a major part of Class VII's curriculum that I… haven't mentioned at all yet".

Now that got everyone curious.

"So! Whatever you decide to do on your free day, make it count for something". But she ignored the questioning looks and kept going. "That concludes today's homeroom; Machias, if you'll do the honors?"

"Y-Yes, Instructor". Machias answered, everyone knew from past experience that it wouldn't work to try and ask her for more details. "All rise… Bow".

And with that the classes for the day were over.

Almost everyone left the classroom shortly after, only Rean, Elliot and Gaius stood behind for a while to hang out.

"I'm a little worried about that practical exam next week". The shortest of them disclosed with a defeated sigh and slouching a bit forward. "I mean, I'm still just getting used to this staff…"

"I'd be happy to help you train, if you need a sparring partner". Rean offered. "The gymnasium looks big enough that I'm sure we'd have no trouble finding a good spot for it".

"That's… very kind of you to offer". His friend started to answer.

'I sense a 'but' coming'.

"But I was planning on attending club practice today".

"Oh yeah, you said you joined the band on the way to school". Rean remembered. "What do you play?"

"Violin mostly, although I think they already have someone who can play that so I'm not sure how much use they'll have for me". Elliot said before turning to Gaius. "How about you Gaius? Have you joined any clubs yet?"

"I'm considering joining the art club". The other two couldn't hide their slight surprise at that.

"Art, huh? Somehow that's not what I pictured for you". Rean answered before adding. "No pun intended".

"Do you have any artistic experience?" The question came from Elliot.

"I dabbled in it back home". The tall foreigner started to answer. "Taught myself, though, so I feel like this could be a good chance to learn proper technique".

"Wow. That's pretty cool!" The red haired teen exclaimed surprised.

"I'd love to see some of your work sometime". The swordsman of the group mentioned but the conversation stopped when the door to the classroom opened, they all looked in the direction of the door and saw Instructor Sara entering.

"Oh, good, you're still here!" She said happily before walking over to them.

"Instructor?" Rean said a bit confused.

"Is there a problem?" Elliot asked.

"No, no. I was just hoping someone could do a… teensy little favor for me?". She answered scratching her neck. "There's something I need picked up from the Student Council room".

"Something you need picked up". The red haired repeated.

"What would that be?" Gaius asked.

"Heh, that's for me to know, and you to find out!" She said with a bit of playfulness in her voice. "All I'll say is, it's something absolutely essential to your school life".

'Something absolutely essential?' The three thought a bit confused.

"And somebody needs to go get it! Though it doesn't matter who, any volunteers?"

"Sure, I'll go". Rean answered almost instantly. "If I show up in the Student Council room and tell them you sent me, they'll know why I'm there, right?"

"W-Wait…"

"Are you sure you don't mind?" Elliot and Gaius wondered.

"You two have clubs to go, right?" Rean asked, although he knew the answer. "I'm still totally undecided, so this shouldn't be a big deal at all. I can look in on a few clubs myself along the way, in fact!"

"Well, if you really don't mind…"

"Seriously, it's fine don't worry about it". He assured Elliot.

"Thank you!" Gaius added happily.

"The Student Council room is in the Student Union building next door, at the end of the hall on the second floor". Sara gave him directions. "It's open until quite late, so there's no rush".

"Got it".

"Thank you, my dear! I leave EVERYTHING in your capable hands!"

"Uhh… O-okay" 'Why do I have a bad feeling about the way you said that?' Rean decided to not voice that last part. "Well, I'll get going, see ya later".

Although he said that, Rean ended up walking around campus for a good while, he met some of his other classmates in different parts and some students from other classes as well as talked a bit with some of the teachers; once he decided it was enough he made his way towards the Student Union building.

'Well I'm here'. Rean thought standing at the entrance. 'Where did the Instructor said the Student Council room was in?'

"Hey there, first year". His thoughts were interrupted by a voice coming from his left; Rean turned and saw a guy a bit taller than him wearing the commoners' uniform with a bandana on his head and a bag over his shoulder walking at him. "How's it going? Academy life been treating you well this past half month?"

"Yeah, it has". Rean answered. 'Guess he must be a second year'. "It's not easy but I'm managing… mostly. Though I have a feeling it's only going to get harder from here on out".

"Of course it will". The second year said with a chuckle. "Your class is going to be more intense than the others too but you just hang in there, okay?"

"Okay, but how do you know that?" Rean asked. "And who are you by the way?"

"Hey now, let's not get ahead of ourselves". The bandanaed second year answered with a grin and before Rean could talk again he continued. "First things first, how about you let me show you this cool trick I've been practicing?"

"Trick?"

"Yeah, you got a 50 mira coin I can borrow?"

'I guess it couldn't hurt'. "I think so" Rean checked his pockets and gave him the coin he asked for.

"Cheers". He said as he took it and put the bag in the ground in front of him. "All right, watch closely".

"Wha…?" The second year threw the coin in the air, Rean focused on it and when it came down the older teen quickly moved both of his hands to catch it.

"Now! Which hand is the coin in? Left or right?"

"It's in your… left".

"Too bad". He said opening said hand and showing nothing.

"Guess you win, I'm usually pretty good at following moving objects, t- wait a second; you said this was a trick right?"

"You catch on quick". The second year opened his other hand and showed that this was also empty, leaving a surprised Rean. "Keep up the good work, man". He said with another chuckle. "You're gonna need to be pretty tough to get through a year with Sara as your instructor". He grabbed his bag but before walking away. "Oh, and the Student Council room is on the second floor. Furthest room back; see you around have a good weekend". With that he walked away.

'How did he know I was looking for- wait, my 50 mira!' Rean sighed noticing that he already left his sight. 'He got me… and he seemed to know I was heading to the Student Council room, too… somehow. Guy's good'.

He shrugged in defeat and made his way to the second floor and the furthest room back of the Student Union building.

"Here it is". Rean thought aloud before knocking at the door.

"Hello, please come in! It's open". A girl's voice answered from the inside.

'I recognize that voice…' "Pardon the interruption".

Rean entered the room and the girl he met back at the first day of school in the entrance got up from a desk to greet him.

"You're… that girl from the first day of school".

"It's been about two weeks, hasn't it?" She said happily. "Welcome to the Student Council room, Rean Schwarzer, Instructor Sara sent you, right?"

"Y-yes. So… you're a member of the Student Council, then?" Rean answered and asked. 'I wonder if she got moved up a few years? She looks even younger than Fie'. He decided it was better to keep that thought to himself.

"Hmm, is something wrong?" She asked innocently.

"Oh, I'm sorry, I was just wondering… umm are you a… second year student?" She let out a laugh before answering.

"I am, but there's no need for formalities with me. There's no junior or senior in my book!" She made a pause before introducing herself. "The name's Towa Herschel, I'm the Student Council president"

"P-President?!" That came out a bit more loudly than Rean would have liked.

"Uh-huh, does that surprise you?"

"Yeah, a bit… sorry if I sound rude but you don't look like a second year… although I have only really met one other and he con 50 mira off me".

"Yeah, I have heard that before". Towa answered. "But yes, I'm the Student Council President, so if you need help with anything you just come and let me know, okay?" Suddenly her expression turned a lot more serious. "I'll do everything in my power to make it better!"

"Thanks, that's very kind of you". 'I honestly still find it a bit hard to believe that she's the President but I don't have any reason to suspect she's lying'. Once again, he opted to keep that thought to himself. "So… the reason I've come here is because you're holding on to something for Class VII, right?"

"Oh, of course". Towa took something from the desk before looking back at Rean. "Here you go, yours is the one on top".

"Let's see…" He took what she offered and saw 9. "Oh, our student notebooks! I completely forgot about these".

"I'm really sorry it's taken so long". Towa apologized. "Class VII's curriculum is pretty different from any of the other classes'". She explained. "And you're even using a different kind of battle orbment! So yours had to be compiled separately".

"Meaning, these notebooks have information in them about…"

"…the ARCUS, yes". The Student Council president finished for him. "All the student notebooks double as instruction manuals for their accompanying battle orbments and the other first years are all using the same type as last year, so we could just reuse last year's template".

"But not for ours". Rean guessed.

"Yeah, the ARCUS type you're using works quite differently, so we had to write a whole new set of directions from scratch".

"Okay, that makes sense". The first year nodded. "But, wait… who's 'we'?"

"Pretty much… just me? Instructor Sara asked me to do it in her behalf".

"…what?"

"Which means it's my fault this has taken so long. I'm really sorry!"

"Oh… no, no!" Rean quickly denied. "If anything, it sounds like we owe you a huge debt of gratitude for putting so much time and effort into it… but is that really part of the Student Council's job? It seems more like something our instructor should be handling herself". He couldn't help but made a half eyed look, guessing what would be the answer.

"Technically, you're right, but she's always so busy-"

"With what?" Although it was a bit disrespectful to interrupt her, the swordsman couldn't help but ask.

"Y-you know… stuff". Towa answered weakly. "And I help out the other instructors a lot too, so I don't mind lending her a hand from time to time".

'Towa… you have to be one of the nicest people I've ever met, maybe a little too nice for your own good, you probably don't get too much rest around here'. Putting that thought aside Rean talked again. "So, you just need me to give these to the other students in Class VII, right?"

"Yes, please!" She answered happily. "I really appreciate what you've all agreed to do, too".

'What is she- speak Rean'. "What do you mean?"

"Eheh. I heard all about it from Instructor Sara!"

'Oh I knew there had to be some kind of trap in this'.

"She said you've all agreed to help out the Student Council with our work, right?"

'INSTRUCTOR!' Rean screamed in rage internally.

"It's such a nice gesture! You're really getting Class VII off to a great start here at the academy".

'Rrrrgh, there is no way I can tell her no if she's doing such a face'. Probably realizing that Rean's expression was reflecting what he was thinking Towa spoke again.

"I-I'm sorry, did I misunderstand her or something?" She asked worriedly. "She told me you wanted to help ease our workload, also something about wanting to better yourselves? To prove you're worthy of being part of this prestigious new class?" Rean couldn't help but make a deadpan expression after hearing all this and noticing this Towa. "Oh! How embarrassing! I-I'm sorry I didn't mean to start trying to force work onto you when you've only just enrolled!"

'…Damn you, Instructor'. "No, no, Instructor Sara's absolutely right". Rean said to calm her. "Your plate is as full as I've seen, so if I can help you in any way, please let me". Towa let out a relieved sigh after hearing this.

"I thought there had been a terrible misunderstanding there for a moment!"

'No, just manipulation'.

"Eheh; but don't worry, I won't give you anything TOO difficult!"

She explained that she will only ask that they fulfill different requests from the students or the people from Trista and that she will make a list and leave it at Rean's mailbox tomorrow morning; Towa then insisted on treating him to dinner in the cafeteria, by the time Rean left.

"Dusk already?" He thought out loud seeing the night sky. "Can't believe she wound up treating me to dinner and she's still got more Student Council work to do yet! How is she so busy?!"Before he could continue rambling his ARCUS sounded in his pocket. 'Oh right, this things have communication functionality built in, but who could it be?' "Umm… Hello, this is Rean Schwarzer speaking".

"Guten Tag, my favorite little Wunderkind!" Sara's voice was heard from the other end. "I hear you had a nice little dinner date with the Student Council president. Ooh la la!"

Being the reasonable person Rean is he did the only thing that seemed correct at this moment… and ended the call.

'I guess I should go back to the dorm, it must be near curfew by now'. He thought moving to place his ARCUS back in his pocket but it sounded again before he could. "Hello Rean Schwarzer speaking". He had a pretty good guess of who it was.

"That wasn't very nice of you Rean". Of course it was Sara again.

"Neither is signing people up to things behind their back". Rean countered. "And if this is how you treat your 'favorite little Wunderkind' I dread to think how you'd treat people you don't like".

"Ohh, don't be like that, I did that for your own good". The pink haired woman said. "I'll skip the details for now but I signed you up because of that other part of your curriculum I mentioned today, I thought it'd be a good chance for one of you to do a little rehearsal before the main event".

"And you couldn't say that because…?"

"And since the Student Council truly is busy, I figured, why not kill two birds with one stone? A fine plan, if I do say so myself".

"I have a feeling half the reason they're as busy as they are is because of certain instructors... but all right, I'll play along for now". Rean said, all too used to be ignored by his homeroom teacher. "Basically, you just want me to spend my free day tomorrow helping the Student Council, right?"

"Oh, that's entirely up to you". Sara quickly answered. "If there's a club you're interested in joining, far be it from me to force you away from it!"

"No, to be honest, I still haven't found one that really clicks with me, so that won't be a problem" The swordsman confessed. "I do have one question though, why me exactly?"

"Well you just so happened to offer, remember?" The pink haired woman said playfully.

"Yes, and if it was just for getting the notebooks I would accept that answer, but the thing you signed me up for is something typically entrusted to the class president or vice president, and even if you were choosing based on social class I wasn't actually born into a noble family like Jusis or Laura".

"Heh". She sounded a bit surprised once Rean finished explaining. "Well, in a sense, you're effectively at the center of Class VII"

"…Pardon?"

"I'm not saying you're its leader, of course, but in a class full of nobles, commoners, and exchange students, you in particular are… 'special'; surely even you can see that, no?"

"I… I guess I can't argue with that". Rean conceded.

"Exactly, that's why I decided to give you… 'first dibs', so to speak; I wanted you to get an idea how things might go from here on out. There's never been a class like yours before, after all". Rean kept quiet while hearing her explanation. "So, there you have it. The beans have been spilled aaaaall over the place. Ball's in your court now".

Rean closed his eyes for a moment to process what he's been told but a gulping sound from the other side of his ARCUS got his attention. "Wait, what are you drinking?"

"Beer, of course; it's the weekend, and I'm stuck wasting away in my room, imbibing libations -alas!- all by my lonesome".

'And just like that, I'm back to thinking you just wanted to push your work to someone else'.

"If only I had a classy gentleman friend who'd go out drinking with me. But, woe of woes, such a man is nary to be found". She purposely overacted that whole speech.

"Have you had one too many to drink?" The teen asked a bit condescendingly.

"I know my limits; but you! Instead of trying to put everything in its place, why don't you just… go with the flow, for a change?"

"I-"

"It seems like you're trying to find… 'something'… but if you don't plant yourself somewhere, you're just going to blow away with the next big gust that comes along". Rean took a deep breath after hearing this.

"I guess you're right but there is one thing in which you're wrong or at least something in which I don't agree".

"Oh?" The sound of beer been gulped was heard before she spoke again. "And what is that?"

"Only dead fish go with the flow". He said confidently making her giggle from the other side.

"Maybe you're right, but for now make sure you're back in the dorm by curfew, and all transgressions will be forgiven. Toodles!" With that, Sara ended the call.

"If I don't plant myself somewhere, huh…?" Leaving Rean alone with his thoughts. 'She has a point'.

With nothing else to do and the curfew approaching Rean went back to the dorm where he passed all the student notebooks before going to bed.

And the next day.

After Rean got up and got ready he went to his mailbox to see what tasks Towa asked him to do.

"Let's see, I have one from the Principal, one from a second year and one from a first year". He thought aloud after reading all the requests. "Why does the name of the first year sound familiar?... Oh well I've got all day, so let's just dive in, I guess!"

Before he left the dorm though, he saw Elliot moving some boxes.

"Hey Elliot, what's up?"

"Oh, hi Rean". The orbal staff user greeted back trying not to let the box he was holding fall. "Just got a package from home so I'm moving it".

"Want me to give you a hand?" The black haired teen asked noticing he was struggling.

"You sure?" He received a nod as a response. "Thanks, the boxes are over by the door; can you move them to my room?"

"Sure". After that they moved the boxes to Elliot's room.

"What's in here anyway?" Rean asked after the last box was moved.

"I'm not sure, my sister sent them to me, but I think there is some food in one of these".

"We better start sorting them out then".

"You don't mind?"

"Not at all, I don't like to do things halfway".

After they sorted out around half the boxes they took a small break.

"Whew, I didn't expect there to be quite this much of… everything". Rean commented sitting on the floor. "There has to be a month's worth of food here, not to mention a bunch of clothes and other daily necessities".

"I didn't expect this either… now I feel bad for dragging you into it". His friend answered.

"Don't be, like I said I don't like to do things halfway".

"If you're sure…" Elliot trailed off before taking another look at the boxes. "My sister's way too overprotective of me sometimes…"

"Oh, you've got a sister?"

"Yeah, an older one". The red haired teen answered. "She's always been a bit on the clingy side, too".

"…I believe you". One glance at the boxes and Rean said this.

"I'm grateful that she's sent me a care package but I wish she'd tone it down a bit. I'm not a kid anymore".

"Haha, you mean it? I'm kind of jealous to be honest". Rean said with a smile, although to Elliot it looked a bit sad. "You can tell she really cares about you"

"You think?" Elliot asked with a chuckle starting to look around the boxes again but stopped shortly after when he took out a worn-looking piece of sheet music from one of them.

"Looks like someone got a lot of use out of that". The swordsman commented.

"Yeah, I used to practice with this all the time back home". Elliot answered. "To tell you the truth, I actually wanted to enter a music academy before I ended up here".

"Oh, really?" Surprise was clearly written in the black haired teen's expression. "Then I guess joining the Wind Orchestra wasn't just a casual thing for you, huh?"

"Well, I've always loved music, ever since I was younger". He answered happily before his expression fell. "But in the end, I wasn't all that serious about it, so I ended up choosing Thors instead of a music academy".

'Something doesn't add up there'. Rean thought but decided to not pry further… for now.

After some time they finally finished with all the packages and so Rean left to see about those assignments from the Student Council.

In the way to the school he passed Kirsche and saw Machias sitting in one of the tables so he decided to say hello.

"Hey Machias". Since Rean more or less gave him the post of vice-president he had been a bit more talkative with him, not incredibly so but better compared to before.

"Oh, hi Rean".

"What are you doing?"

"Just reviewing some stuff, this café is a good place to study, it has a relaxing atmosphere".

'Hmm, I still have some time'. "Mind if I join you for a bit?"

"…No, I suppose that's ok". Rean noticed the pause before he answered but decided not to bother him about it. "I was about to take a break, you should order something".

They both sat and soon after he ordered Rean hot a cup of tea.

"You can tell this café uses some high quality beans for its coffee". Machias mentioned after taking a sip of his drink. "There's a rich flavor behind the initial bitterness, and the fragrance is utterly fantastic".

"I take it you're pretty knowledgeable when it comes to coffee, then?"

"Mainly due to my dad, he's been drinking it as long as I can remember". The bespectacled teen answered. "Thanks to him, I started drinking while I was studying, which gradually gave me a taste for it".

"That explains it". Rean said before taking a sip of his drink.

"Speaking of which… is that tea I see you drinking?" Machias asked with a half eyed look.

"It is; I'm way more used to tea than I am to coffee". Rean answered before noticing the slight scowl his classmate wore. "I take it you're not a fan".

"It's something I usually associate with nobles". The green haired teen answered clenching his teeth.

"…Can I ask you why you hate nobles so much?" The swordsman noticed the slight tremblor in Machias and how his expression quickly turned to one filled with rage. "Forget it; you don't have to tell me". He quickly finished his drink and left the money on the table before getting up. "Your face tells me that something happened, and that's probably none of my business, but I just want to say that not all people are the same". With that he left him to his thoughts.

"…I know that dammit" Machias cursed once Rean had left.

On the way to school Rean met a student from one of the upper classes who gave him a fishing rod, once he had left he noticed that the label from the company the rod was made and the student's last name were the same 'Lakelord', he fished for a while in the river that goes through Trista before going back in his way.

Once he reached the campus he decided to make one last round on the clubs in the gymnasium, he wasn't going to join now since he already promised to help Towa, but it didn't hurt to see.

He found Laura who had joined the swimming club and timed one of her laps, surprised by how fast she was, they talked for a bit before he left and finally started to do those assignments.

First he went to the Student Union building where he found the same girl Emma had given her notebook a few weeks back, Collette, turns out she lost it again and after he managed to find it in one of the couches on the second floor of the main building he told her about the pockets in their jackets so it doesn't fall off anymore without her noticing.

Afterwards he went to the Engineering building where he met George Nome, the guy who was with Towa when he first arrived at the academy, and head of the Engineering club.

After they introduced themselves and talked a bit, George explained that he repaired a few things for people in Trista but he was too busy to deliver them, which is where Rean comes in and so he took the things from him and off he went.

Aside from the guy at the pawn shop, which he didn't know existed, giving him a deck of a card game named 'Blade' and the head of the cooking club giving him a recipe book with one recipe and some ingredients telling him that 'if he wants to cook he should just do it' nothing interesting happened with his deliveries, after he was done George gave him an extra orbal radio he happened to have and when he left he saw a leather clad girl next to something covered by a big blanket but he decided to put that aside for now.

Last but not least he visited the Principal.

"Excuse me, Principal?" Rean said after knocking on the door to the Principal's office. "I'm Rean Schwarzer of Class VII".

"Come in". Principal Vandyck told him from inside and he did as told. "Good, good, I've been waiting for you".

The principal was standing next to a window where he seemed to be looking outside before Rean entered.

"Towa tells me you've accepted my request". He started. "I truly appreciate you taking time out of your free day to assist me in this".

"It's no problem at all, sir". Rean answered respectfully. "So… you're looking for someone to further investigate the underground area of the old schoolhouse?"

"Precisely". The principal confirmed. "And I couldn't have found a better man for the job, considering your class was down there so recently".

"Y-yeah". He couldn't help but remember the 'circumstances' that got them down there.

"Incidentally, it was Sara who insisted on making use of that trap door, not me; I probably should have tried to stop her, however. Please do accept my apologies".

"It's okay, sir, you have no reason to apologize". Rean assured. "I can't talk for the rest of the class but, for me, the past is the past". 'And the culprit is Instructor Sara anyway'. He left that last part only to his thoughts.

"Getting back to the matter at hand, there are a number of interesting stories regarding that old schoolhouse". Principal Vandyck continued. "That gargoyle you fought is just a drop in the bucket, all told".

"Now that you mention it I did get the impression while fighting it that it was… no ordinary monster". Rean said assuming his thinking pose. "It was almost as if…" He trailed off trying to find the right words but the principal beat him to it.

"Almost as if it weren't a monster at all, but a… demon? Perhaps the word 'fiend' might fit; in our experience, if left alone, it will regenerate to its original form… eventually".

"R-really?" Rean couldn't hide his surprise after hearing this.

"Yes, and as a result, the area has long been used by students in test of strength".

"That could be really dangerous". The student commented remembering how the whole class had to fight it at the same time to finish it off.

"Indeed but the thing I'm curious about is that in the past year many strange… 'alterations' have been occurring there".

"Alterations?"

"I've received reports ranging from doors appearing out of nowhere to strange and eerie voices from the darkness". The principal explained.

"I see, so you'd like me to go and investigate whether there's any truth to these reports, then?"

"If possible, yes". The older man answered. "Specifically, I would like you to walk through the underground area and check for any significant changes since last month; a task for which you are uniquely qualified, given your prior experience down there".

"I suppose that is true". Rean agreed. "And I'd be happy to undertake this mission, though if that gargoyle has regenerated, things could get a bit tricky…"

"If that turns out to be the case, I would have no objection at all to you turning back". The principal assured him. "I should also stress that I'm making this request to Class VII as a whole, by all means do ask your classmates for assistance. I'm certainly not expecting you to go alone".

"I'll see if they're free". Rean answered.

"Splendid, I believe you'll be needing this, then".

"I'm guessing this is the key to the old schoolhouse?"

"Precisely, best of luck to you, and please… be safe".

"Thank you, sir". Rean did a bow before leaving the office and making a beeline for the old schoolhouse.

"Let's see if they can make it". Rean thought aloud taking out his ARCUS to call his classmates.

Chapter Text

"Well, here we are again". Rean said; after he called his classmates only Elliot and Gaius agreed to give him a hand, he didn't call Machias since their last conversation went kind of sideways, Jusis simply declined, Alisa, Emma and Laura apologized but they couldn't make it due to clubs and Fie didn't pick up, probably because she's sleeping somewhere; and so the three were now inside the old schoolhouse.

"I can't believe we're coming back here again, I-I really don't think this is a good idea". Elliot voiced his concern on going back to the dungeon.

"Well… that's because it probably isn't". The swordsman admitted. "And neither of us would blame you one bit if you turned back; it's not too late". Gaius nodded to show he agreed with that.

"N-no, thanks, I'll come with you; we've got that practical exam next week after all". The red haired teen answered. "I need to familiarize myself with this orbal staff as much as possible before then; besides, if I turned back, I'd just wind up worrying myself sick about the two of you!"

"Thanks, Elliot". Rean thanked him.

"There are only three of us, though, so we'll need to watch the others' back and proceed with caution". Gaius said, the other two nodding in agreement. "The underground area should be just through the main door, correct?"

"Yeah, that should take us right to the room where we fought that stone gargoyle". The black haired teen confirmed. "Best to go that way rather than falling through the trap door again".

"No arguments here, I- I really hope that thing hasn't regenerated yet". Elliot said nervously.

"Only one way to find out".

And with that the three made their way to the underground area.

"Well, at least that monster isn't here anymore, from the looks of it". The red haired teen commented with relief from atop the stairs. "And it doesn't look like we've got any more creepy statues ready to come to life either".

"…Yeah…" Rean said looking curiously at the room.

"Wait…" Elliot caught on, on the reason why Rean and Gaius had been so quiet. "Did it always look like this in here?"

"No". The swordsman answered. "This room's definitely smaller that it was the last time we were here".

"H-How…?"

"I'd say it's about half the size, maybe even less". Gaius added. "And there are things here that weren't here previously".

The three then looked at the door on the opposite wall.

"I don't remember being a door there last time". The orbal staff user commented.

"I don't remember there being one either, but at this point I'm not sure what to believe anymore…" The black haired teen said, his eyes fixed on said door.

"Strange though it may be, we should go and get a closer look at it; this is essentially why we came after all". Gaius reasoned.

"Yep, let's see what's behind door number one". Rean agreed while Elliot nodded and they went down the stairs and to the other side of the door, once they passed it.

"Unbelievable…" The spear user said looking around.

"This isn't even the same place!" Elliot exclaimed both confused and worried. "I don't remember passing through an area like this at all!"

"I don't either". Rean answered turning to face him. "Because we didn't, the entire layout down here has changed completely".

"H-how…?" The red haired teen repeated himself but neither of his companions could give him an answer.

"I can sense new types of monsters here too, what do you think we should do Rean?" Gaius asked.

Rean took a few moments to think before answering.

"The principal sent us here to investigate if there was anything strange with the building and I think this is already enough proof that there is". He started. "But we don't know how or why, so I say that we check where this path leads now, we should go as far in as we're able".

"…Here we go then". Elliot said sighing and sloughing forward.

"May the Goddess be with us". Gaius said placing a hand over his hearth. "…what is that?"

The three looked at a strange device-like thing just a few steps from the door.

"It doesn't look like an orbment charging station". Elliot said looking it over.

"Yeah, but it's weird there is one of those right at the other side of the door now that I think about it". Rean added. "But whatever this is, it doesn't seem to have any power right now so let's just leave it be for the moment"

"Agreed".

"Yeah" Gaius and Elliot answered.

"All right". The three prepared their weapons. "Let's do this!" And the exploration began.

Like Gaius said the monsters in the old schoolhouse had changed from the ones they fought before but...

"I feel like these monsters aren't as strong as the ones we fought before". Elliot commented after they finished another group that attacked them; surprised by how they managed to beat anything that tried to stop them with relative ease.

"They certainly aren't at the level of that gargoyle". Gaius was the first to answer. "But if we're comparing them to the other monsters we fought when we first got here I'd say they're at more or less the same strength".

"Yeah, if we can manage this well it's probably because of the combat links". Rean said joining the conversation.

"True, they are a lot more useful than I first thought they'd be". The orbal staff user admitted.

"Well, let's keep this up and reach the end of this place".

They kept going and after some fights, some dead ends and some rest they reached a second door.

"There is another door". The red hair of the group said. "And… isn't that like the thing near the entrance?" He asked pointing at something that looked like the same device-like thing from before.

"It does appear to be the same kind of device". Gaius answered.

"And this one's inactive too, from the looks of it". Rean finished. "Let's leave it for now". The three then looked at the door.

"You think the end of this place is behind it?" The tallest of them asked crossing his arms.

"Only one way to find out, you guys ready?" The swordsman asked, his two friends nodded. "All right, let's see what's behind door number two".

As soon as the three approached the door opened in its own accord, half moving to the left and half to the right, on the other side there was a really spacious room similar to the one they were in when Sara made them fall through the trap door, the only real difference was two sets of pillars at equal distance from the walls at their left and right.

"This is the end of this place?" Elliot asked looking around the room.

"I don't sense wind anywhere but the way we came from". Gaius answered him.

"Let's look around to make su-" Rean was interrupted when a weird purple light appeared in the middle of the room. "What the hell?"

The light stood there for a few moments and when it banished in its place stood a strange monster, it was humanoid at first glance but certainly not a human, around twice the size of Gaius, its torso and face were covered by armor, the helmet had two holes from where a pair of purple horns stood out; both arms were covered by armor till the elbow, the rest was covered in reddish brown fur, its hands had four fingers and three purple claws sprouting the back of both of them; the legs were also covered in the same fur till the ankles where it looked like the legs from the gargoyle from the first day.

"What is that?!" The orbal staff user asked in panic.

"Everyone, on guard!" The swordsman of the group ordered, they all readied they're weapons and the creature roared before lunging at them.

It first aimed one of its clawed hands towards Gaius forcing him to dodge by jumping away, the spear user used the opportunity to make a combat link with Rean and the moment the creature tried to follow up against the foreigner, he quickly slashed at it from behind, it let grunt and tried to sweep against the swordsman who used his tachi to block avoiding most of the damage and only been moved away a bit.

'If I get a direct hit, it won't be pretty'. Rean thought after feeling that blow, he then formed a combat link with Elliot.

Understanding what he wanted he launched the art he could cast the fastest. "Aqua bleed". And hit the creature but aside from rearing its head back it seemed to do little damage, capitalizing on it Rean once again slashed while it was distracted, Gaius quickly following up with a thrust from his spear on its left leg.

The monster roared again before taking a deep breath, confused by what was happening they took a bit of distance but before Rean could get far away enough it turned to him and let out its breath sending a black mist that him square in.

"Rean!" His friends called out in worry, this time the demon capitalized on their distraction and with one swoop hit Gaius sending him crashing to one of the walls before making a dash towards Elliot.

The red haired teen could feel himself panicking but instead of trying to block with his staff he strengthened his grip and moved it a bit behind him, almost as if he was throwing a fishing rod, the orbal staff started to glow and when he moved it back in front of him a lot of bubbles appeared, they popped in contact with the creature and it suddenly fell to the ground asleep.

"Phew". Elliot let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding before quickly checking on his friends, Gaius started to stand up before he could make a move to him and seemed to be okay more or less, so he went to Rean.

"Rean, are you okay?"

"Elliot?"

"Y-Yes it's me, is something wrong?"

"Yeah, I don't know what that thing did but I can barely see". The swordsman answered.

"Look out!" Gaius yelled and both of them jumped away avoiding a charge from the monster.

"I thought he would stay asleep a bit longer". The orbal staff user said in a mix of panic and disappointment.

The three teens were now away from each other near the walls of the room.

"I'm open to suggestions, guys". Elliot said; his eyes fixed on their enemy in case it decided to charge again and before anyone else could talk, it did, this time aiming to Gaius who started to parry and dodge the blows as best as he could, taking as little damage as possible.

'It's all or nothing'. Rean thought before making a combat link with his fellow front line combatant; he still couldn't see well due to whatever the monster did so instead he relied on his combat link, sensing how Gaius was dodging to aim at the monster, he sheathed his sword while keeping his hand on the hilt before closing the distance he unsheathed aiming for where he thought one of the monster's legs were and… he missed.

Seeing Rean as the new threat the demon immediately changed targets bringing one of its hands down on him trying to crush him, out of instinct the swordsman put his tachi in an horizontal position above his head with one hand on the hilt and the other near the end of the blade, it worked to avoid a direct hit but the sheer strength forced him to one knee and it was already preparing another blow; Rean could feel it coming, even if he couldn't see his senses told him there was another hit coming for him, however that wasn't the only thing he felt so he smirked.

"I won't let you, Needle shot". Elliot had prepared an art while Gaius and Rean were keeping it busy and it hit it right on the left side of the head making it stop for a second, not letting go of the opportunity Gaius jumped now been about eye level with the monster and he held his spear with both hands making a green glow surround his weapon.

"Gale Stinger". He thrusted aiming at its left temple where Elliot had hit before putting as much strength as he could he forced the spear to break the armor and sink in its head then a gust of wind was launched to the other side.

Gravity did its work and Gaius descended to the ground once again along with his spear, the demon roared one last time before disappearing in a blinding purple light.

"Phew… that was one tough battle". Elliot said letting out a sigh of relief.

"Yeah, I owe you one you guys". Rean said blinking a few times. "And I don't know what it was but my eyesight is back".

"That's a relief". Gaius said taking deep breaths.

"Yeah it is; I guess it was that thing that did it but still we made it through". The red haired teen said with a smile.

"We sure did and I'm really starting to get the hang of these combat links now, too". The swordsman of the group said. "I missed that last attack but aside from that I feel like the ARCUS has practically synchronized my breathing with the two of you!"

"That's a good way to put it. It's a strange feeling… but not a bad one". Gaius answered before they all put their weapons away. "I think we've reached the end of the line, however".

"Looks that way and I didn't see any other routes we could have taken". Rean supported. "It really does seem like the entire structure of these ruins has changed since we were last here".

"Y-yeah… it's a little hard to believe". Elliot added.

"Let's check the room to make sure we're not missing anything and then head back".

The three started to look around the room but aside from the fact it didn't exist the last time they were here there wasn't anything strange in it and so they went back through the door they entered.

"Hey, is it just me or… was that thing definitely not glowing before?" The orbal staff user asked looking at the device that seemed to be de-powered last time they checked.

"No, I'm quite certain it wasn't". Gaius confirmed

"Has something caused it to turn on, then?" Rean thought out loud. "We should go have a closer look".

The three then stepped inside the glowing circle in the floor of the device, Rean put his hand on it and the glow intensified.

"Wow!"

"This is-"

"What's going on?!"

The three exclaimed before suddenly been in the same device that it was near the entrance to this place.

"Wh-what just happened…?" Elliot voiced their thoughts.

"We seem to have returned to the entrance". Gaius said as surprised as the red haired teen.

"But we were just at the exit…" Rean trailed off trying to understand what happened.

"This place really is nothing but mysteries!" Elliot half yelled passing a hand through his hair.

"For now, let's go back". The black haired teen said, since no matter how much they think about it there was little chance they would make sense of what happened.

By the time they left the old schoolhouse the sun had begun to set and the three went straight to the principal's office to give their report.

"Hmm… well, this is certainly unexpected". Principal Vandyck said after listening to the report from the three members of Class VII.

"So the layout has changed completely since last month?" Sara asked out of disbelief. "I knew something was amiss there, but I had no idea it had progressed to such an extent".

"Umm… do you know anything about the origins of those ruins?" Elliot asked with concern in his voice. "They look like they predate the school by… well, a lot".

"I'm afraid I can't be certain who constructed them, nor exactly how long they've been around but you are correct; they've existed for at least several hundred years before this academy was founded, all signs point to their construction occurring sometime during the Dark Ages". The principal answered.

"The Dark Ages?" Gaius asked.

"You mean… the chaotic period that began after the 'Great Collapse' 1200 years ago?" Rean also asked, just to make sure.

"Most of the ruins archeologists have uncovered from that period are full of strange things". Sara said. "Some of which seem to have been made with technology we don't even fully understand, we're talking magic, alchemy…" She trailed off there before turning to the principal. "But the inside of a building completely changing its layout… I have to say that's a new one, definitely not normal".

"Indeed, no record of such a phenomenon exists in the academy records". Vandyck confirmed. "We have a bona fide mystery on our hands, it would seem". He said before closing his eyes, seemingly deep in thought.

"Well, I'll try to have a look around the place myself when I get a chance". The only woman in the room said. "I've been curious about it ever since I started working here".

"I'd greatly appreciate that". The principal said before turning to the students. "Schwarzer, Craig, Worzel; thank you very much for all of your hard work".

"It was no trouble at all, I'm happy to have been of assistance". Rean answered first.

"Yeah, it's always good to help!" Elliot added cheerfully, Gaius nodded before saying.

"If you'll please excuse then".

The three of them and Sara then left the office,

"Heh, the three of you did pretty well". The instructor congratulated. "And it seems you're getting the hang of using your ARCUS, too!"

"Combat links definitely did make our battles in the ruins a lot easier". The swordsman of the group admitted.

"They could prove a powerful asset if we're able to master them". The exchange student added.

"Hard to get the timing right, though…" The musician said a bit concerned.

"Well, just keep at it, you'll need to be forming links with your other classmates eventually too after all and let me reiterate once again: you've all done very well today". The pink haired woman congratulated them once more. "Especially you Rean, I'll be expecting great things from you next time, too!"

"I'll do my b- wait a second, what do you mean next time?!"

"Well, the way I see it you're a natural at this, so why stop now?" She asked matter-of-factly before adding with a playful wink. "Besides, with how busy our poor Student Council president is, don't you just want to do everything you can to help her out?"

"W-well…gaaaahhhh, fine I'm in, I guess". He was thinking of declining but remembering how busy Towa seemed to be, his conscience got the better of him.

"That's our Rean! I'll pass the good news on to Towa, then. Oh, and the principal has given the okay for you to keep hold of that old schoolhouse key, you're welcome to poke around inside again anytime you wish!"

"Alright, I'll keep it in mind". Rean answered.

"Anyway, I'll be seeing you kids later; toodles!" And with those words Instructor Sara left.

"Er-erm…" Elliot murmured trying to say something but Gaius was more straightforward.

"Are you sure you're all right with this, Rean?"

"Yeah, I'm sure". He confirmed with a chuckle. "It's not like I'm signed up to any clubs and as long as I don't wind up with too many more than I had today, I'll be fine".

"Well… okay, then". The spear user hesitated but in the end he let it go. "But if you need any assistance, please just let me know, it's really no trouble".

"Same goes for me". The musician of the group added with a smile. "And I'll be happy to come with you the next time you go into the old schoolhouse, too!"

"…you'll be happy to go back there?" Rean asked with half a smirk.

"Hehe, you get what I mean". Elliot answered with a chuckle.

"Thanks guys, I'm going to look around for a bit, see ya later". The swordsman said and the three parted ways.

Rean ended up helping Alisa out to put the things for the lacrosse club away, turns out one of the others first years was supposed to help but she ditched and he couldn't leave her alone to do that.

He then decided to pay Towa a visit to tell her about how his day turned out and ended up helping her with some of the paperwork she had, after they were done she treated him to some tea.

"Finally done!" The student council president said happily.

"You had a lot on your plate". Rean answered surprised. "Now I see just how busy the Student Council can be".

"There's so much work to get done that I almost always have to take work home with me to finish everything in time". Her expression then suddenly fell. "Um, are you sure you're okay with this, though?"

"What do you mean?"

"Well, you said you'd help us out next month too, right?"

"Oh, Instructor Sara already told you?" The black haired teen asked a bit surprised she already got word of it.

"Yes, but trust me you shouldn't feel obligated to help just because your Instructor told you to…"

"It's fine, I mean it". He assured her. "Besides, it's not like I'm not getting anything out of it". Towa made a questioning look at hearing this and looked closely at Rean's seemingly troubled expression.

"…I'm going to be blunt here, Rean".

"Hm, sorry what?"

"Do you really need to push yourself like this?" That question caught him off guard. "Well, I mean, there's nothing wrong with doing your best and helping other people out, I'm a big fan of both but at the same time, it's important to take the time to just sit back and rest, too; you need to have a balance because if you don't there may come a time when you want to work toward something important to you, but can't…"

'…Is she a mind reader or something?' The swordsman was even more surprised than before.

"O-oh, sorry! Wow things got really heavy there; I probably shouldn't be saying all this when I hardly even know you b-but I just don't want to see you hurt yourself by going overboard or anything because you're just as important as anyone else in the academy, even if you don't realize it yourself".

There was silence for a few seconds before Rean let out a chuckle.

"Thank you, President Towa". 'And to think I doubted if she really was the President when I first met her' "To be honest, I was kind of worried about being able to do enough while I was here, but this is kind of a weight off my shoulders".

"That's good then". She said with a happy laugh. "And… if you're ever feeling tired, feel free to come visit me, at the very least I'll make you some nice, hot tea and we can talk things over".

"Roger". Rean answered with another chuckle. 'I don't think I've ever met anyone with such a soothing personality… she's right though, pushing myself too hard could really burn me out'.

They talked for a bit longer before they decided to call it a day.

After leaving the campus, Rean went to Kirsche to grab what would be his diner this evening; he saw Patrick outside with his lackeys but did his best to tune him out, luckily he didn't seem to want to talk with him.

He entered and saw Jusis sitting in one of the tables.

"There go my plans for a relaxing evening". The noble thought out loud and Rean overheard him.

"Hi Jusis". He greeted him.

"Hmm, oh hello, is something the matter?"

"I was about to ask you the same, why can't you have a relaxing evening?" His classmate seemed to be surprised he asked something like that. "You said that just a second ago".

"Well, judging by that irritating voice, I'm afraid the pest outside is exactly who I think it is".

"If you mean Patrick, then yes he is there" The black haired teen answered with a smirk at Jusis' 'nickname'. "So you know him?"

"Just his name; perhaps I should return to the dorm for the day, I'd rather not talk with him if I can avoid it".

"I get it". Rean said with a nod. "I'll go order something, want to go back together?"

"…hmph, I don't see any reason not to".

"All right, be right back".

As Rean approached the counter he heard the bartender muttering something with a troubled expression; he didn't seem to notice him.

"Is something the matter?" He asked curiously.

"Er, yeah…" The bartender trailed off taking a good look at Rean. "You that kid who came to buy something at night the first day of school, aren't you?"

"Yep, I'm Rean, nice to meet you".

"I'm Fred and based on the red duds I'm guessing you're from that new class at the academy?"

"That's correct… but where'd you heard about the uniforms?"

"We get students in here all the time, so I'm always up to date on the comings and goings at the academy". Fred answered with a chuckle. "Sorry for spacing out, you here to order something?"

"Yeah, but before that, is something bothering you? You looked kind of upset".

"Huh, it's kind of you to ask". He seemed to hesitate to talk but decided to do so in the end. "To be honest, I've got a little stock issue on my hands here… by which I mean I'm all out of a certain seasoning, so now I'm trying to figure out what I should do".

"I see, I'm assuming you can't just swap it out for something else?"

"It's not that I 'couldn't' but it'd make things taste different". The bartender answered. "I don't wanna sound like I'm bragging or anything but our food's pretty popular; there'll be a lot of customers stopping by with that dish on their minds, so I'd feel bad if I used something else…"

"Makes sense… what's this secret ingredient? If you don't mind telling me".

"Passion leaves, a rare kind of spice from the south of Zemuria". The swordsman was a bit surprised he would just tell him like that. "Don't look so surprised, it's what you call a 'secret everyone knows'".

"I see".

"Brandon usually orders them for me; I probably wouldn't have ran out either if I'd just kept my eye on the stock".

"A spice from Zemuria…" Rean put a hand in his chin deep in thought.

"It's a shame really, I feel bad for the customers but I'm sure they'll understand if I explain…" Although he said this, he didn't sound convinced.

"Hey… mind if I talk to a friend at the academy about this? He's pretty knowledgeable when it comes to food; he might let me borrow some passion leaves if he has any, too". The teen noticed how Fred's eyes widened in surprise at hearing this.

"For real? Oh man I'd really owe you for that".

"Don't get your hopes up yet, he might not have any".

"A small chance is better than none!" He answered with a chuckle. "I really hate to ask but-"

"I offered, you didn't ask". Rean corrected with a grin. "Hmm, but it's kind of late, so if I have to go back to the academy I might not make it before he leaves" Just then an idea popped in his head. "Give me a sec."

Rean walked a few steps away and took out his ARCUS. 'Let's see, if I were my classmates, who would still be around campus at this time?' He thought for a second before calling one of them, the person on the other end answered at the third ring.

"Hello?"

"Hi, Fie? It's Rean, sorry for asking but are you busy right now?"

"Just woke up from a nap, why?" As much as he would like to say that she shouldn't be sleeping out in the open, as he was almost sure she did, this wasn't the time.

"Can you do me a favor before going back to the dorm?" The silver haired girl stood silent for a few moments before agreeing and Rean explained the situation to her.

"I'll go talk to him before I leave"

"Thanks Fie I'll meet you halfway there, see ya in a few". They both hanged up and Rean walked back to the counter. "Another friend of mine is going to check, I'll go meet with her and come back here to tell you how it went".

"Thanks kid"

Before he left he walked to Jusis' table. "Sorry, something came up".

"I overheard your conversation". The blond noble told him. "You're free to do with your time as you wish but you should consider not been too fast to helping others or they may try and abuse it". He said before standing up. "I'll be returning to the dorm first then".

"Alright, see ya later Jusis". And with that he left.

Rean walked out and met with Fie around halfway between Trista and the academy's entrance.

"Here you go". She said as she showed him a bundle of Passion leaves.

"Thanks Fie, you're a life saver". Rean said taking the leaves. "I wasn't sure I could get to Nicholas before school closed".

"It wouldn't have mattered; I ended up getting these from the cafeteria".

"How come?"

"He didn't have any but said the chef there might have, also something about been able to tell every ingredient and the quantity used in a plate with a single bite". She explained with half opened eyes.

"…That's amazing". Rean said surprised by that bit of information. "Sorry you had to go there though".

"It was on the way". She answered with a shrug.

"Well, want to come with me to Kirsche to deliver them; I'll treat you as thanks for doing me this favor".

"Hmm, alright".

Both of them then went back to the café.

"Thanks you two, I'll have to thank Ramsay the next time I see him too". Fred told them putting the leaves away after they explained the situation.

"It was no trouble, Fie did most of the work anyway". Rean answered.

"Even so, thank you; it's not much but have these". Fred then took out three boxes with a label that said crispy pizza.

"Are you sure we can have them?" The swordsman asked.

"Of course, any less would be criminal".

"Cheers". Fie thanked him.

"Oh yeah, I meant to ask, you two aren't part of the Student Council, are you?"

"Not exactly, I help them out from time to time but Fie just did me a favor". Rean answered, since he already agreed to help them in the future. "Why do you ask?"

"Oh, it's just that they've helped everyone here in Trista out quite a bit over the years, us included". Fred explained. "Seeing you try so hard just kind of reminded me of their style that's all".

"Huh, so that's why they get requests from everyone in town too". The black haired teen muttered to himself.

"Yep, they're like our personal problem-solvers" The bartender said overhearing him. "It's probably a lot of work for them, but I think they all feel like it's work worth doing".

"Hehe, I've only really met the President but she certainly fits that description". The swordsman agreed. "Well, it's about time for us to get going, good luck with the rest of the day's work".

"You too! You really pulled me out of the fire today!"

"Bye". Fie said in her monotonous tone and both students left the establishment with Rean carrying the boxes.

"I think we got diner for tonight sorted out". Rean said with a chuckle. "Oh right I almost forgot, what do you want from Kirsche?"

"It's okay, the pizza is enough". The silver haired girl said with a shrug.

"You sure?" His answer was a nod. "Alright then".

They both went back to the dorm and everyone had pizza for dinner that night.

After everyone ate Rean decided to train in his room for a while, after he was finished he connected the radio he got from George and tuned in to 'Abend time' a new radio program he heard about while making his deliveries for the Engineering club.

"It's 9:00 PM and you're listening to Radio Trista". He heard a women's voice from the radio. "Welcome, welcome. Don't touch that dial listeners; you've found the right place to be tonight; it's time for the start of a brand new program here on Radio Trista, coming at you promptly every Sunday!"

He let the radio on while working in his homework; apparently the name 'abend' comes from the word 'evening' as Misty, the host, explained.

Time flew by and it was now the day for the practical exam, all of Class VII was standing in the academy field in front of Instructor Sara.

"Okay! Let's get your practical exam started, shall we?" The pink haired woman said happily. "To be completely clear from the outset, this exam is about more than just testing your physical strength and stamina; it's designed to hone in on how capable you are of making strategic decisions on the fly".

Most of the class payed attention to those words trying to think how they would be testing that.

"Defeating your opponent quickly is a good thing, certainly… but it won't be enough to score you high marks here!"

"So we're going to have to use our heads for this one, huh?" Alisa asked.

"You'll see". The pink haired woman answered smirking. "Anyway, let's get this month's exam started, shall we? Rean, Elliot, Gaius; you're up first, please step forward".

The three named did as told.

"All right then, here we go". The instructor then snapped his fingers and out of nowhere a strange… thing appeared in front of everyone, surprising them.

"Wh-what's that?!" Rean asked first looking at the strange creature, it looked like some sort of machine colored purple with some red on certain parts; its torso, or what you could call that, was about as wide as a human arm, it had no legs instead it floated in the air, the arms were really short if it was a human then it would be as if they cut them before the elbow and its 'face' was just a metal plate with the form of it.

"A-A monster?!" Elliot asked next panicking.

"No… I'm not sensing any life coming from it at all". Gaius answered him.

"That's right, think of it like a scarecrow; only it's a moving scarecrow… I guess". Sara 'explained'. "Either way, it's not alive; I've set its parameters fairly high, though, so it IS formidable but if you give it your all, I'm confident you can beat it!... Probably".

That last part made most of the class look at her with a deadpan expression.

"Make good use of your ARCUS' combat link abilities, for example, and I bet it'll be a piece of cake! Hint, hint".

"So that's what you're playing at" Rean though aloud before he and his friends prepared their weapons.

"All right! Begin!"

That was the signal to start.

…

The 'scarecrow', as Sara put it, was no pushover its hits forced them back a few feet even if they blocked, it could throw some weird blue spheres at them from a compartment in its 'arms' and apparently it could use arts.

But in the end they managed to beat it using the combat links as Sara told them to overwhelm it and not let it move as it pleased.

Once the fight was over the Instructor clapped.

"Not bad, not bad at all". She praised. "Excellent use of combat links, too; seems like the practice you got in the old schoolhouse really paid off!"

"It just may have". Rean said with a chuckle.

They're other classmates sounded surprised hearing this but they didn't have time to question it.

"Alright, on to the second group! Laura, Emma Jusis".

…

Eventually everyone had their turn at it and managed to defeat it but it was clear the first group was the one who had less trouble with it, due to their use of the combat links.

"Instructor, may I ask a question?" Laura asked gaining the attention of the older woman. "What exactly was that… marionette we just fought?" Everyone then payed more attention to the conversation.

"Y-yeah, that thing was weird!" Alisa added.

"A machine, maybe? Never seen anything else like it". Fie offered.

"Oh, just a little something I got roped into working with a while back". The older woman answered, her expression turning a bit annoyed. "I'd rather not use it if I don't have to, but I can't deny it serves a valuable function and it's rather customizable, too". And just like that she went back to cheerful. "I mean, it did its job quite well during our test, didn't it? So there you go!"

'Why do I feel like there are a lot of things she'd rather not tell us?' Rean thought sarcastically.

"Anyway, this brings this month's practical exam to an end but as you might recall, I told you I had a big announcement for you today too! Are you all ready to hear what it is?"

Judging from their expression it seemed most, if not all, members of Class VII had forgotten about that announcement.

"I'll give you a hint, it's about a special art of Class VII's curriculum". Even with that so called hint no one could think of what she could be talking about. "Give up? Hehehe, it's really bugging you now, isn't it? Well I'll come clean; the special task you're about to be assigned to is none other than…" She made a pause while smirking apparently enjoying the moment. "…a field study!"

"Field study?" Emma was the first to talk, voicing everyone's thoughts.

"I don't like the sound of this one bit". Machias commented.

"You'll be split into two groups, A and B, and each sent to a different location and while you're there you'll be given a number of tasks to complete, doesn't that sound like fun?" Sara explained.

"Er… we only just got to the academy, and we're already being sent somewhere else?" Elliot asked confused.

"Hmm, will you not be coming with us, Instructor?" Rean asked.

"Oh, of course not! It'd be much too easy for you if I was there to bail you out every time the waters of life came seeping in". The older woman answered with a smirk. "You've got to be cruel to be kind and all that!"

They all had different reactions, from those who found it annoying to those who didn't care and some that didn't seem opposed to the idea.

"Instructor Valestein". Jusis said. "Where, exactly, will we be going? And when?"

"Ah, yes, about that". She took out a bunch of papers from a pocket. "As I said you'll be split into groups A and B, each of you please come forward and take one of these to see how the groups have been divided and where each is being sent".

They did as told and started to read said paper.

'Let's see Group A is Alisa, Laura, Elliot and me, and we're going to Celdic, the market town'. Rean thought while he read. "But wait, that means…" He trailed off reading the rest of the paper, of course the rest of his classmates, specifically Machias and Jusis, where in Group B.

"Well, these are certainly some interesting groupings". Laura said after some silence.

'That's one way to put it'.

"Celdic and Parm… are they both in Erebonia?" Gaius asked.

"Y-Yeah, Celdic's a market town on the east side of the Empire". Elliot answered first.

"And Parm is situated in the deep south, it's known for its spinners". Emma finished.

"...All that way? How irritating". The youngest member of the class commented.

"I-I'm less worried about where we're going than the utter lack of sense that went into these groupings!" Machias murmured.

"Unbelievable…" Jusis said, this probably been one of the few things they can actually agree on.

"You'll be leaving this weekend, and will be in the field for two days' time". Sara further explained. "Your means of reaching your respective locations will, of course, be by train; so do make sure you're thoroughly prepared, rested, and rearing to go before the big day!"

Once again time seemed to fly by and before anyone knew it, it was time for their field study.

Group A got together in the dorm and did a few stops on the school grounds to buy things or with George so he could tune their battle orbments before heading to the station; they all saw a woman leaving the radio station, apparently having spent the night there working but shrugged and went on their way.

Once at the station they saw Group B getting ready to leave.

"Ah, good morning, everyone!" Emma greeted them when they got closer to them.

"Are you all preparing to leave as well?" Gaius asked as his form of greeting.

"…Morning" Fie said simply.

"Good morning". Rean greeted back.

They spoke for a bit about their different locations when Elliot addressed the 'elephant in the room' glancing at Machias and Jusis who stood giving their back to the other and looking away.

"They're still at it, huh?" Alisa commented.

"Have they been like this the entire time?" The swordsman of Group A asked.

"I'm afraid so". The exchange student confirmed.

"I think we may have underestimated how deeply rooted their differences are". The bespectacled girl added.

"I'm sick of them already". Fie said with an expression that seemed to be bored and annoyed at the same time.

"This could prove to be a problem". Laura mentioned thinking of how they could do what their field studies asked of them, whatever that might be.

They would have talked a bit more but the announcer said that the train for Group B would be arriving soon, the two 'prideful warriors', as Elliot had dubbed them, wasted no time in going.

"Good luck you guys… I sadly think you'll probably need it". Rean said.

"Getting those two to work together sure doesn't seem like it'll be an easy task". The male orbal staff user said a bit worried.

"We'll do what we can". Gaius assured them apparently not too worried about the situation.

"Good luck to you all. Please take care". Laura added.

"It's our first field study, let's show them what we're made of". Alisa encouraged.

"Of course!" Emma answered happily.

"Later". Fie simply said her goodbyes, and the three left.

"I wonder if they'll be okay…" The red haired teen wondered worriedly.

"Well, as long as Emma and Gaius are with them, things shouldn't get TOO out of hand". His black haired friend tried to assure him. "Now, Fie… I have absolutely no idea what to expect from her but at least I don't think she would cause trouble".

"Yeah, she doesn't seem the type". The blonde girl supported.

"I'm concerned for them as well, but I believe we should be focusing on our own trials right now".

"You're right, Laura; let's go buy our tickets".

They did so and after a few minutes they're train came so they boarded.

Inside the train.

They talked a bit about the place they'll be going; Celdic is mostly a market town due to its Grand Market where you can get pretty much anything, eventually the conversation turned to what they would be doing there and what Instructor Sara prepared for them.

"I can't even hazard a guess as to what this 'field study' might involve". Rean admitted. "The only thing I can say is that it probably won't be easy"

"If it were, it would hardly be worth the trip". The blue haired girl answered. "Personally, I'm looking forward to learning the true nature of or excursion". She added with a smile.

"I-I suppose that's a good way to look at it…" Elliot trailed off sounding a bit unconvinced.

"Well, we'll find out answer when we get there; we're supposed to drop by the inn as soon as we arrive and there should be an envelope waiting for use with details on our mission". The black haired teen said remembering the instructions they were given.

"Yeah, that's right" Alisa said. "Still, this whole trip seems eerily well planned out, don't you think? Even the employees knew we were coming-"

"That just goes to show how high the academy's expectation are for all of you!" A new voice interrupted her; they all turned their heads and saw Sara walking towards them.

"I-Instructor?"

"I was wondering why you were nowhere to be seen this morning". Rean and Laura spoke their surprise.

"Looks like Group A's all present and accounted for, good, good".

"So… what brings you here, Instructor? I thought you were planning on staying back at the academy?" Rean asked.

"Well, considering this is your first time out in the field, I assumed you'd be positively lost without me!" She exaggeratedly said causing the presents to give her a skeptical look that she ignored. "So I decided to stick around at least until you've finished checking in at the hotel".

"W-well, thanks, I guess but…" The archer of the group trailed off.

"I think Group B could've used your help a little more" Elliot finished for her.

"Would it not have been better for you to accompany the others?" Laura asked straight.

"Aww, but they'd be a nightmare to deal with". She answered looking annoyed at the idea. "I may still have to go to them, though, if those two get out of control but we'll cross that bridge when we come to it!"

The members of Group A sweat dropped after hearing this.

"And you just said that so nonchalantly". Rean muttered before the older woman went to sit at a different seat.

"Anyway, don't pay me any mind! You four feel free to keep talking, I didn't get any sleep last night, so I'm just going to take a little nap right here". Before anyone could object she was already soundly asleep.

"…did you do that Elliot?" The black haired teen asked jokingly remembering what he did to the monster in the old schoolhouse.

"N-no but I'm surprised she could fall asleep so quickly".

"Incredible". The blue haired swordswoman said.

"I don't think I've ever seen someone less inclined to be an educator than her". Alisa commented.

In the end they just let her sleep.

"Oh yeah, we have some time before arriving to Celdic, anyone wants to play?" Rean asked showing his deck of Blade.

"You have one too? I just picked one up before on a whim". The musician said showing his own deck.

"I got one from the pawn shop in Trista, want to play then?"

"Sure, you two?"

"Yeah, sound fun".

"I believe it would be a good way to pass the time".

"Alright then, it's time to d-d-d-d-d-d-d-duel!" Rean said earning a few confused looks from his classmates. "The writer wanted to do a reference and a fourth wall break, alright? Let's just play".

And so they started the card game.

Chapter Text

As the train reached the station everyone left and followed their Instructor outside of the building and into Celdic. The city did honor to its name been mostly centered around the Grand Market, most people were either entering, leaving or currently buying/selling inside it; some other people went around passing the town square and on to their business.

"Wow, so this is Celdic…" Elliot said amazed as he looked around.

"It seems like a relaxing little town, though there are a lot more people here than I expected". Rean commented.

"I imagine they've come for the Grand Market". Laura answered, been a logical assumption. "Even merchants from other countries regularly come to see it".

"Sounds like this place is as popular with the tourists as the capital, then, but for a whole different set of reasons". Alisa said.

"Celdic's also renowned for their local beer, which they make using rye". Instructor Sara suddenly said having turned around to face Group A. "But you're all still minors, so I'm the only one who gets to drink it!"

"Are you… trying to make us jealous?" Rean asked noticing how happy she seemed as she said this.

"We don't really care, you know". The blond of the group supported.

"Anyway! Let me show you to the inn it's… uh, right over there". The Instructor said looking in the direction of the inn.

"O-okay". Elliot answered and the group started to follow.

"Oh, wait a sec". Rean suddenly said making them stop on their tracks.

"Is something the matter?" The blue haired swordswoman asked a bit confused as he took out something from his pocket.

"Say cheese". The object he took was an orbal camera which he used to instantly take a picture of his classmates and Instructor with Celdic behind them. "All right, now we can go". The swordsman said as he put the camera away and caught up.

"You joined the photography club?" Alisa asked curiously.

"Nah, my parents gave me that camera before I came to Thors, I thought it would be a good idea to bring it with me since we're going to a field study". The black haired teen answered.

As they walked to the inn they'll be staying at no one noticed the man with violet hair and white clothes watching them.

They all entered a building with a sign that said Weathercock inn.

"Hey there Margot". Sara said to a woman near the counter, she was wearing a mid-sleeve shirt, long skirt and an apron over it all; her eyes were brown as was her hair that was tied in a bun.

"Well, if it isn't Sara! What are you doing here?" Margot answered. "I knew the kids were coming but I didn't think you'd be coming with them".

"Oh, I just figured I'd help them get settled in before I left". The pink haired woman answered before presenting Group A. "And, here they are! My lovely students".

Group A introduced themselves and Margot said to follow her to their room.

"I'll leave you to it then!" The Instructor said as they walked away before turning to one of the employees. "Louise, can I get some beer and snacks?"

"I'll bring them right over!" Louise answered before adding. "You do know it's not even noon though, right?"

The students sweat dropped at the exchange but kept following Margot.

"This is the room you're all going to be staying tonight". Margot said stopping in front of a door and opening it.

"Wait". The first one to react when they heard this was Alisa. "We're… all…?"

"Something tells me this was the Instructor's idea". Rean murmured.

"This is more than enough space for our needs, thank you very much". Laura thanked the owner.

"B-but, there are four beds, which means…" Elliot trailed off as he realized what was happening.

"A-Are you suggesting we sleep in the same room as the boys?!" The archer of the group yelled as her face turned red.

"I had my doubts about that too". The owner answered. "But Sara insisted, so that was that! I broke the beds into groups of two to make things less awkward but that was about the best I could manage".

"I-I… don't…" Alisa was clearly looking for a way to get out of this.

"This is going to be a problem". Rean said closing his eyes.

"I don't have a problem with it personally but I can't imagine the girls will be quite as accepting". The musician commented.

"Alisa, I don't believe we have a choice here; we are military students we mustn't allow the prospect of mixed-gender accommodations to faze us". Laura spoke matter-of-factly.

"I-I know that but…" She couldn't say anything to refute that.

"In the army, women share rooms with men; it's a fact of life, born of necessity. You will need to adjust to this reality sooner or later and this does seem a perfect opportunity". The swordswoman put the metaphorical last nail in the coffin.

"Okay, okay I get it!" The archer finally conceded before glaring at the boys, or more specifically at Rean. "But if either of you comes anywhere near our beds"

"I wouldn't dream of it!" Elliot answered with a nervous chuckle.

"Likewise".

"I wasn't talking about you Elliot; I was referring to a certain someone else who already has a history of this kind of thing". The blonde girl then murmured something about chaining someone to the bed.

"That doesn't seem fair, don't you think? You admitted I wasn't at fault back then". Rean said with a half-eyed look.

"This and that are two different things!"

"If that's so then maybe we should chain you to the bed". Although he sounded dead serious, Rean was trying really hard not to laugh.

"Wh-what?!"

"You're the one who landed on top of me weren't you? Not only that but you also tried to assault me, I'm not sure I feel safe with you so near". He then proceeded to hide behind Elliot.

"E-eh, th-that's not-" Her mumbling was interrupted by Rean chuckling with a hand over his mouth. "Y-you!"

"Haha, sorry, sorry but come on just a bit of trust please? Just a little". He put his index and thumb really close to each other as emphasis.

"…yeah fine". She sighed and left it at that.

Everyone entered the room and Group A left their things on top of the beds they'll be using.

"Anyway, now that your room's all sorted, let me give you this". Margot said taking an envelope from her pocket and handing it over to Rean.

"Isn't that our academy's emblem?" The swordsman asked after seeing it.

"Does this contain the details of our assignment here?" Laura asked just to be sure.

"That's what I've been told, yes". The owner of the inn answered. "Well, if you need anything during your stay, you just let me know. For now I'll leave you to get settled in". With those words she left the room.

"All right, shall we have a look inside?" Alisa said and Rean opened the envelope.

"Let's see…" He read the three assignments aloud for them to hear and after he was done with them there was another part at the end. "'Study area is defined as a 200 selge radius around Celdic, each student must record his or her activities daily to be remitted to the instructor upon request' that's all it says".

"So… this is our 'field study'?" The archer of the group asked sounding a bit disappointed.

"It just looks like a list of menial tasks to me". The red haired teen said truthfully.

"There's a monster elimination request at least but that's the most we have". Laura added.

"Hmm…" Rean closed his eyes for a second to think. "I see, so that's her angle". He murmured remembering how he helped the Student Council on his free day.

"E-excuse me?"

"Did you figure something out?" Alisa and Elliot asked in surprise.

"Oh, no, it's nothing". He answered, although he thought he had a good idea of what was happening he would rather have all the facts before sharing his conclusions. "We should go and talk this over with Instructor Sara; she probably stuck around specifically to answer any questions we might have".

"Hmm, you may be right". Laura supported.

"A-and while we're at it, we can grill her about this communal room she signed us up for, too!" Alisa half yelled.

And so they went back downstairs where they saw their Instructor drinking in the counter.

"Nothing hits the spot quite like a cold beer!" Sara said happily not noticing, or ignoring, her students standing right behind her.

"She looks like she's having the time of her life…" Elliot murmured with disappointment in his voice.

"How many pints has she downed already?! It's not even noon!" Alisa added not as quietly.

"Oh, you kids are still here?" The older woman asked in her half-drunk state. "I'll just be hanging back and enjoying myself so go on ahead and get started! Don't mind me!"

"W-we have questions for you, though!" The archer said giving her a half-glare. "What's with these field study tasks?!"

"I'm glad they're not as difficult as I was expecting but they're just… so…" The re haired teen trailed off.

"Mmm… well, it makes sense you'd have some doubts". Sara said. "You only need to do the ones it says are required though; feel free to just ignore the rest if you want. I don't care! Up to you how much or how little you wanna do".

"Hmm?" Something about what she said got Laura thinking.

"S-Stop being so irresponsible and-"

"Wait". Alisa was probably about to lecture her when Rean interrupted her. "These kind of decisions are as much a part of our field study as the tasks themselves".

As he said this the other three members of Group A turned to look at him.

"Uhh, what?"

"Wh-what do you mean?"

"Heehee". Instructor Sara giggled and suddenly seemed to have sobered up. "You have two days; Trista isn't far from here, so you'll be returning to the academy tomorrow evening until then, you can spend your time here however the four of you see fit". She announced. "Every decision rests on your shoulders. I won't be forcing you to do a thing". After she said all this she ushered them out and they left without objection.

Now in front of the inn; Elliot, Laura and Alisa were facing Rean.

"Okay, so what's up?" The blond girl asked first.

"You have this look in your eyes like you've pieced something together". The orbal staff user added.

"Does this relate in some way to our free day this past week?" The blue haired swordswoman asked, apparently piecing together something too. "Specifically, to your activities during that time?"

This time it was Laura's turn to be looked on with surprise.

"Exactly". The black haired teen confirmed. "I spent this past free day doing various tasks on behalf of the Student Council…"

Rean explained to them how, aside from going back to the old schoolhouse, his tasks consisted of simple requests from the locals to help them with something and how he got to learn a good amount of things from Trista and the academy thanks to those. It wasn't hard to put two and two together after that.

And so they started to work.

They all agreed on doing every request not just the ones marked and so they first went to visit the chapel to speak with Father Zirbel; he explained how he wanted to make a medicine for the common cold but needed someone to get the ingredients, one they can get it from a merchant in the Grand Market but the other they have to talk with a farmer in the West Highway.

Since they have another request in that direction they went to talk with the person that submitted it before leaving in Oddvin's Arms & Orbal Factory where they met Samus who told them he needed them to change a lightbulb for one of the Road Lamps used to keep monsters away.

Group A first went to the Grand Market to get a Bearclaw, one of the ingredients Father Zirbel asked for; they ended up staying longer than that though browsing around the shops, Rean took the opportunity to take more pictures and eventually, a bit reluctantly they left.

"That place has everything". Rean exclaimed as they made their way to the West highway.

"I read about it before but it really sinks in when you're actually there". Alisa commented.

"Indeed, even though I was expecting it I was still surprised by all the goods that are sold". Laura said.

"Hmm? Who might you be?" The conversation was interrupted when they reached the gate to the West Highway where three soldiers were standing; the one who asked this seemed to be the officer in charge. "I don't recall seeing any of you around here before" The officer said after eyeing Group A. "Do you have some form of identification?"

"Soldiers? Wait, I think I recognize those uniforms". Alisa murmured but didn't get to say anything.

"We're students from Thors Military Academy". Rean answered to the officer. "We're currently visiting Celdic as part of a field study".

"Thors? You mean THE Thors?" One of the soldiers asked surprised but was ignored when the officer spoke again.

"Now that you mention it, I do recognize the emblem; my apologies for any rudeness, we're members of the Kreuzen Provincial Army, our main duty is to keep the peace in Celdic".

"The Provincial Army, isn't that…?" Elliot trailed off while talking in a low tone as to not be heard.

"They're military forces operated by the ruling lord of each province, charged with maintaining security". Alisa finished for the red haired teen.

"They function as a secondary unit, separate from the formal Imperial Army". The swordswoman of the group added.

"Hmm… I've never heard of any 'field study' program at Thors, seems a little early in the year for something like that too". Platoon Officer of the Provincial Army said, his eyes glinting with suspicion for a moment. "But many graduates of your academy currently serve in our ranks so you be sure to uphold the academy's good name! Don't do anything you shouldn't".

"…Thank you, we'll be sure not to let you down". The black haired teen answered.

"I'm glad to hear it, take care now and keep your noses clean!"

"W-We will!" Elliot answered nervously.

And with that the soldiers left.

"Man… he was scary". The musician admitted after they were out of hearing range.

"If they're the Kreuzen Provincial Army, doesn't that mean they're ruled by…?"

"Yeah, Jusis' family. The Albareas". Rean answered her unfinished question. "Celdic is in the northern part of their territory, after all"

"I think it would be best for us to keep out of their way, we should return to the task at hand". Laura suggested.

As they left Celdic and entered the West Highway they all saw several windmills and farms that gave the place a relaxing atmosphere.

They encountered some monsters in places where the lamps weren't active but it was nothing they couldn't handle, eventually they reached the lamp that they were asked to change, Rean took care of that while the others kept any monsters that tried to attack at bay.

Before going back they went to talk with the farmer to get the other ingredient for the medicine.

Before going back they saw a big sign that said Lunaria Nature Park, out of curiosity they went to check but the park rangers there said they had to leave, although it was more like they were pushing them out.

Nevertheless they didn't have anything to do there so they left without complaints and went back to Celdic.

After talking with Father Zirbel in the chapel and Samus at Oddvin's shop they went back to the inn for a little rest.

Sara was still there drinking away and they made an unspoken agreement of ignoring her.

"Man, I'm tired". Elliot said as he unceremoniously sat.

"Yeah, I didn't think it could be this tiring to run around". Alisa agreed.

"Really? I feel perfectly fine". Laura answered to them curiously.

"Please don't compare us". The blond archer half pleaded.

"I see you're working hard". Margot said as she came over their table with a tray of cookies and some drinks. "This one is on the house".

"Thanks".

"We appreciate it". The four teens gave their thanks before digging in.

"This is really good". Rean commented after taking a bite at one of the cookies.

"Thank you". The owner answered. "Here in case any of you wants to try them after you go back". She then gave them a piece of paper with the recipe of those cookies.

"Are you sure we can have these?" Alisa asked a bit surprised.

"Sure, it's no bother".

"Thank you very much". Elliot said.

'I guess I'll take some use out of that recipe book after all'. Rean thought making a mental note to write down the recipe later.

"Well, I'll let you rest now, call out if you need anything". With those words the owner left to attend the other clients.

They all enjoyed the cookies and made some small talk.

"We still have one request to do right?" The orbal staff user of the group asked remembering they still weren't finished.

"Yeah, the monster extermination request". Alisa answered. "What was the target again?"

All eyes went to Rean who looked in his pocket to take out their field study envelope.

"A 'Scary Dinosaur' is the target, it appeared near the East Highway and is causing trouble to the farmers; our client is one of them". He summarized.

"I guess we left the best for last". Elliot said ironically and hanging his head.

"Indeed, we should make sure we're ready before going to battle". Laura said, to which the rest nodded.

A few minutes later they were in the entrance of the house of their client in the East Highway.

"Excuse me". Rean said knocking at the door. "We're looking for Syro".

"We're here to take care of the monster that's causing issues here; as such we'd like some further details on it". Elliot added, not long after the door opened; the one who opened is a man probably in his mid-forties, wearing a green shirt with an unbuttoned brown vest, blue pants and gray hair.

"I'm Syro, please come in". The man said moving so they could enter.

"Sorry for intruding". Laura said for everyone as they went inside the house and sat around a coffee table.

"Hmm… while I did know that it would be students taking care of it, I wasn't aware that you had young ladies in your company". Syro said while his wife Tisel brought some drinks for everyone. "The rest of you are younger than I had expected, too… perhaps this request may be too dangerous for you after all".

"Thank you for your concern, however there's no need to worry; all of us here have combat experience already". Alisa answered calmly.

"Indeed, this all serves as part of my training to, so please allow us to undertake the request". Laura added.

"And if we're talking battle prowess, one of the 'young ladies' here is the strongest of our school year". Rean commented.

"Well, if you insist…" He still seemed a bit reluctant but in the end he talked, before though he took what looked like a map of the place. "You'll come across a plateau of sorts if you proceed beyond here, that's where the monster tends to appear". He started while marking in the approximate zone in the map. "It truly is a ferocious one, so much so that passing by the area is impossible, as it attacks everything it sees". He closed the map before speaking again. "Do take extra care when approaching it".

"R-right". Elliot answered first looking a bit scared from what they just heard. "Being careless with this one doesn't seem like an option".

"Indeed, we'll have to be thoroughly prepared for it". The archer supported.

"Allow us to make our way there once our preparations are complete, then". The swordswoman told the older man.

"Is there anything else you can tell us about that monster?" The black haired teen taking a sip of his drink.

"I'm afraid I can't, aside from the fact that it attacks everything that gets close we don't know anything, my apologies".

"There's nothing to apologize for, thank you for your time".

After that exchange they all left the house and made their way through some more monsters before reaching the plateau Syro told them about.

"I-Is that the monster we're looking for?" Elliot asked seeing a really large lizard creature with blue and purple scales covering its body and what looked like a plate sticking out from its back starting from its neck till the end of its tail.

They all hid and observed it for a while.

"It certainly seems to be". Laura answered him.

"It looks pretty tough, what should we do?" Alisa asked a bit worried.

"We don't have any choice, do we? We have to kill it; it's causing problems to the farmers". Rean answered her. "Everyone, double check your equipment, we need to be prepared for whatever this thing might throw at us".

Everyone did as told, Alisa preparing his bow, Elliot checking his orbal staff, Laura and Rean placing a hand on their respective swords; while also checking their ARCUS.

Once they were ready they rushed the monster.

As soon as it noticed them it fixed its eyes on them and roared.

Elliot used his Resounding Beat to raise everyone's defense before Rean and Laura took off to act as the front line.

The swordswoman was the first to attack, jumping high in the air to the point it was higher than the dinosaur and bringing her sword down on its head, it didn't cut it but the dinosaur's head was moved down by the sheer strength of the attack.

Not wanting to be hit again it spin in place trying to hit both swordsman with its tail, it didn't connect but they were forced out of range.

Alisa took advantage of it and shot an arrow covered in flames connecting with the dinosaur's torso and leaving a large burn mar in it.

Rean tried to maneuver around it but the dinosaur was fast to react and literally head-butted Rean knocking the air out of him; before it could keep attacking Elliot shot an Aqua Bleed to distract him long enough for Laura to get in close-range and forced the dinosaur's attention on her.

"Rean, are you okay?" Alisa asked helping him up.

"Yeah, I'll be fine". He answered trying to get air back into his lungs; the archer prepared another arrow and shoot it right above the swordsman, it exploded in a green-blue light that fell on him healing some of the damage the last attack did. "Thanks".

With that he got up and helped Laura keep the monster at bay.

The group adopted a simple strategy of forcing the dinosaur's attention on Rean and Laura, the both focusing mainly on evading or blocking the attacks while Elliot and Alisa kept attacking using arts.

They kept this up until the dinosaur started to struggle to stay up.

"I-I think we almost got him!" Elliot said noticing the state the monster was in but the celebration was short lived as it suddenly started to shine an orange color.

"W-What is it doing?!" The archer asked in surprise.

"I don't know but probably nothing good". Rean answered preparing his sword.

"Allow me". They all heard Laura who was holding her sword with her right hand, the tip pointing at her left side, while her left hand was on the blade; starting from the hilt the entire zweihander started to glow. "Behold my most powerful strike". With these words she moved the sword to her right pointing at the ground before holding it with both hands and in one step closing the distance with the monster, she moved the sword above her right shoulder and. "Radiant Blade dance!" She slashed at the creature, starting with a diagonal slash from right and up to left and down, almost as soon as that slash finished she cut horizontally from left to right and using the momentum she spun in place delivering one more cut in the same direction.

Overwhelmed by the attack the dinosaur did one last roar before falling to the ground.

…

"What was that?!" Alisa yelled once the danger was over. "How did you do that?!"

"That was incredible" Elliot joined her on her bafflement, albeit more quietly.

"I'm guessing that was some technique from the Arseid School". The only other swordsman said.

"That is correct; I learned it from my father". Laura confirmed. "I believe with this the request is completed".

"Y-yeah". The red haired musician confirmed. "I don't know how but we beat it".

"It would have been even tougher if not for the power of our combat links". Alisa said. "I hate to admit it but ARCUS does seem to have a lot of potential".

"…you 'hate to admit it', why?" Rean asked tilting his head a bit in confusion.

"N-never mind that, we should go tell the people at the farm that we took care of the monster they reported" She quickly changed the subject.

"Oh, yeah". The black haired teen decided to play along for now.

"I hope they're pleased". Elliot supported smiling.

Laura on the other hand turned her head to Rean with an inquisitive look.

"Is something wrong, Laura?" He asked noticing this.

"No… it's nothing". She answered after a few seconds. "Let's go".

"O…kay?"

After reporting back to Syro and having a conversation about how the Provincial Army seemed to be denying requests for help because of some situation with the taxes they went back to Celdic, with a good amount of vegetables that the man insisted they take as a reward.

"Guess that does it for all the tasks we were given". Elliot said letting out a sigh of relief and exhaustion. "I don't know about you guys, but I'm pooped…"

"Same, I don't venture out onto the highways very often…" Alisa said sharing her red haired friend's pain. "The two of you sure seem okay, though" She added with a half-eyed look.

"My hometown is in the country-side too, so I'm kind of used to this and with all the training Laura does this is probably nothing for her". The black haired swordsman answered.

"Indeed, I find this level of exercise to be quite manageable". The blue haired girl confirmed. "However…"

'Why is she staring at me like that?' Rean thought, his confusion growing. 'It doesn't feel like when Alisa gave me that glare back at the old schoolhouse or at the inn, did I do something to upset her?'

"What is it?" The archer asked, the silence after she trailed off been going on for long enough.

"…No, I'm sure it's nothing". Laura finally answered. "I believe we should return to the inn now, should we not?"

"Yeah, let's; I'm guessing Instructor Sara is still there, we can give our report and also ask her a bit more about the purpose behind these field studies". Rean agreed.

"That would definitely be good to know, she hasn't told us anything about what's happening tomorrow, either". Alisa supported.

"All right, then, we shouldn't be too far from the town now". Elliot said as they kept walking.

Once they got back to Celdic they made their way to the Weathercock Inn but before they could get in a voice in the distance caught their attention, as they tried to listen to it they could recognize another voice aside from the first one.

"What's going on?" Rean wondered aloud.

"It sounds like something's happening over at the market". Elliot answered.

"Hmm… there appears to be some manner of dispute occurring". Laura said from the few words she could make out.

"I wonder what's up… should we go take a look?" Alisa asked for the others' opinion.

"Yeah, let's go and see". Rean answered after a few seconds, Elliot and Laura nodding in agreement.

They didn't have to go too far, just as you enter the market there saw two men, probably merchants, yelling at each other at the top of their lungs.

'What the hell is going on?' Rean thought seeing the scene. "Excuse me, may I ask what the problem is?" He said to another merchant that was watching the argument.

"There seems to be some question over which of these two…"

'She's searching for the right word, isn't she?'

"…gentlemen…gets control of this area to set up his stall; the young merchant over there is local, while that merchant wearing the suit is from the capital".

"So they're both claiming the same spot…" Elliot thought aloud.

"Hmm…how odd; permits for the market are issued by the province's ruling lord" Laura said with a contemplative expression.

"So for Celdic that would be-" Whatever Alisa was about to say, she stopped when both merchants grabbed the other by the throat and got ready to punch each other.

'Not good!'

Rean and Laura reacted and before they could hurt each other they separated them.

Obviously they struggled at the sudden intervention but after noticing they wouldn't be able to get free they calmed down…a little.

"What are you, high schoolers?" The merchant with a suit asked now directing his anger to Group A.

"This has nothing to do with you meddling kids! We're having a mature discussion here and I'll thank you not to interfere!"

"Yeah, you lost the right to use words like that as soon as you got ready to punch each other's lights out". The swordsman of the group said giving him a bored look.

"Since when has grabbing a person by the neck been considered mature?"

"If you truly intend to have a mature discussion, perhaps you should try acting more like adults". The musician and the archer supported.

"Wh-what did you say to me?!" The local merchant half yelled, more out of embarrassment than anger.

"We're students from Thors Military Academy". Rean said before they all introduced themselves. "We're currently visiting this town on a field study".

"And while we are not yet formal members of the army I'm afraid we cannot simply walk by and ignore a fight in such a public place". Laura added.

"A-A military academy?!" The merchant from the town, Heinz, asked in surprise.

"Ugh, so they're a bunch of soldiers in training". The other merchant, Marco, seemed to be less shocked and more disgusted while he said this.

"What in Aidios' name is happening here?" An old man's voice asked with a sigh.

Everyone turned to the source of the voice to see an older man wearing a suit and a hat with white gloves.

"Oh, now look what you've done!" Heinz said in anger.

'You have no one to blame but yourself'. Rean thought but decided to keep quiet after he heard Marco say.

"M-Manager Otto".

The man, Otto, approached the two merchants and began to talk to them convincing them to talk this matter with him in private to avoid inconveniencing the customers and the other merchants.

He also thanked Class VII and asked them to come with him so they could talk.

After everything was settled with the two merchants Otto and Class VII sat to talk.

As it turns out Otto is an old friend of Principal Vandyck and asked him to pick the tasks for their field study. Group A also learned that the person responsible for issuing the permits for stalls so things like the one that happened before wouldn't happen is none other than the ruling lord Duke Albarea, Jusis' father, and that he raised the taxes which the merchants aren't willing to pay causing the soldiers stationed in Celdic to turn a blind eye at the town's issues.

Of course this was all speculation but the facts certainly added up, however Otto made it clear that this is an internal matter and they should just focus on their field study.

Eventually they left the manager's house and walked until they reached the central square.

"…that all sounds really unfair". Elliot gave his honest opinion about what they talked with Otto.

"Yeah, I agree". Rean answered.

"Provincial lords have the duty and the right to decide upon and collect taxes in the regions they control and as long as that remains the case there's not really much the general populace can do to stand against them". Alisa said regrettably.

"I'm reluctant to comment on how others choose to rule their own territories but harassing one's people like this seems clearly inappropriate". Laura added to the conversation. "I've heard many rumors about the current head of House Albarea…" She trailed off there probably questioning whether to actually talk about said rumors.

"Umm, the current head is Jusis' dad, right?" The musician of the group mentioned. "So… couldn't we ask Jusis for some help here?"

"I doubt there's anything he could do; among the nobility decisions made by the head of the house are absolute and since the Albareas represent one of the Four Great Houses, that old tradition is absolutely guaranteed to be alive and well". The black haired swordsman answered him.

"The emperor is probably the only one with more power than the heads of the Four Great Houses". The archer added.

"So that's a no then". Elliot said feeling dejected.

"I see you're all busy mulling things over. Excellent, excellent!" They turned at the voice of Sara approaching them.

"What brings you here?"

"I figured it was about time for me to get going". The Instructor answered to Alisa. "Group B's not getting anything done, as expected, so I'm off to help sort them out".

"What?!"

"You're going to see Group B… now?"

"The town of Parm is a considerable distance from here".

"Now, now, you let me worry about that". The pink haired woman answered to the comments of the archer, orbal staff user and swordswoman. "You four are perfectly capable of looking after yourselves anyway, right? Put your heads together and think, and I'm certain you'll see what you need to do" With those words she walked away waving a hand without looking back.

They were all surprised since, giving her tone, it would seem she knows exactly what's going on but they let it go.

They did one last trip to the market where they met a merchant named Lymon, turns out his daughter Becky goes to Thors and after talking for a while he offered them a chance to be in charge of the shop during the evening sale.

After thinking it over for a bit they all agreed to take turns and do it.

Rean took pictures of everyone as they were working and was the second best at it, first was Alisa, third Laura and fourth Elliot.

Once they're little experience was over they all want back to the inn and ate dinner courtesy of the owner.

"Ahh… that was delicious". Elliot said with a happy sigh. "Those were some seriously fresh vegetables, too"

"Yeah, nothing beats food made from local ingredients". Rean supported his friend.

"I quite enjoyed the rye bread, myself". Laura joined in.

"I suppose this whole field study thing isn't so bad when you take the menu into account… I wonder what the others in Group B are doing right now". Alisa wondered.

There was silence for a few seconds before Rean answered her.

"I get the mental image of Machias and Jusis having a contest to see who can eat the most that is eventually ruined by them trying knock each other out like those merchants from before".

The others chuckled while saying something like 'sounds about right'.

"Honestly, I feel a bit bad for them but it would be a shock if it was anything different!" Elliot admitted.

Silence made itself present until the musician broke it.

"I can't help but wonder what exactly Class VII's purpose is, though; Instructor Sara says it's about ARCUS but I really don't think that's the only reason we've been brought together".

"I'm certain it's not". The blue haired swordswoman answered. "If that were all, today's field study tasks would serve little purpose".

"It seems as though she's trying to make us experience… I don't know… things; like all kinds of things, big and small". Alisa joined the conversation. "What I can't wrap my head around, though, is why".

"Yeah… what do we have to offer one another, when our reasons for enrolling at Thors in the first place are undoubtedly very different?" Rean thought aloud.

"Our… reasons?" The red haired musician wondered.

"Oh, sorry just thinking out loud".

"My reason for enrolling was quite simple; I aim to come ever closer to my goal, or rather, to the person whom I regard as such". Laura answered, though it wasn't a question that was expecting an answer.

"Your father?" The other swordsman of the group asked.

"Heh, this is neither the time nor the place to discuss such matters; best to save that topic for another day". It seemed they wanted to ask more but she quickly diverted their attention. "What about you Alisa? Why did you enroll at the academy?"

"There's no single reason but…" She trailed off apparently thinking how to say it and after a few seconds. "I think I just wanted to assert my independence". That got a few raised eyebrows. "I mean, my situation at home isn't exactly ideal, and this seemed like good way to get out and… do more, I guess".

"Hmm… it sounds like I'm probably in the minority, then". This time all eyes went to Elliot. "See, I wasn't intending on coming here at all originally, I wanted to do something completely different"

"You did?" The blonde archer asked first.

"Oh yeah, you said you were really hoping you'd get into a music academy, right?" Rean remembered their conversation back on their free day.

"Ahaha, well I wasn't THAT serious about it or anything…"

'All right there is definitely something else going on there and now I want to get to the bottom of it… but I won't question it for now'

"What about you Rean?"

"Hmm, sorry Elliot what was that?" He had spaced off in his previous thoughts.

"Why did you decided to attend Thors? You're the last holdout and since you're the one who brought it up, it's only fair you answer the question too!"

"Me? Hmm… I wanted to find myself, I guess".

"Find yourself?" Alisa asked with a mixture of surprise and curiosity.

"Haha sorry, that makes it sound like a much bigger dean than it actually is, that's the best way I can think of to put it, though".

"Nothing wrong with that, going on a journey of self-discovery; it's actually a pretty cool answer!" Elliot reassured him.

"Yeah, I had no idea you were such a romanticist". The blond haired archer expressed her surprise. "You sure don't come across as one!" She added with a wry grin.

"I think I'll just take the compliment". 'And why are you still staring at me?' The last part he just asked himself as he noticed that Laura had her eyes fixated on him.

They talked for a bit more before deciding to call it a night, although they still had to write the reports for the day, Elliot and Alisa in particular didn't seem too thrilled about it.

They asked Margot to wake them up at six tomorrow and went to their room… or well, Elliot and Alisa went to their room.

"Rean?" Before said person could go up Laura called out to him.

"What is it?" He asked back.

"I was unsure whether to ask or not, but I've decided that this question bears answering". The swordsman tilted his head in confusion but let her continue. "Why have you chosen to hold back?"

"What?" That question caught him off guard, because he honestly didn't understood what she was asking.

"Your sword style and technique, it is the Eight Leaves One Blade school, is it not?" Now THAT caught him by surprise. "Popularized by the 'Sword Hermit' Yun Ka-fai, it combines the best elements of other Easter sword styles, those who master any of its forms are referred to as a 'Divine Blade' and are said to understand the true nature of all things".

"You certainly know an awful lot about it; I didn't think it was particularly renowned here in the Empire". Rean answered.

"We of the Arseid school consider the studying of other swordsmanship styles to be an essential part of our training; in addition, my father once told me 'If you follow the path of the sword it is only a matter of time before you encounter a follower of the Eight Leaves".

"Your… father said that? Haha, it's an honor to be acknowledged by the Radiant Blademaster himself". The black haired teen said with an ironic chuckle. "But I'm afraid you're going to be disappointed".

"Hm?"

"It's not that I'm holding back, this is my limit; I trained under Master Ka-fai but he cut my training short, I barely made beginner level".

"Why did he do that?"

"I guess he decided that I don't have the talent… and I agree". This was a lie, and Rean knew that, but he couldn't bring himself to talk about the real reason.

"…What?" Hearing him say this left her speechless.

"So I'm really not holding back. Honest. I actually kind of feel like I'm… dirtying the good name of the Eight Leaves school, in fact; I'm sorry I can't live up to your expectations".

Laura stood there quietly for a while before turning around.

"Laura?"

"You have no reason to apologize to me, this is a matter you must come to terms with on your own… Though I'll admit to some disappointment, I was hoping you'd prove to be a good sparring partner"

"…"

"I'm going to practice outside for a bit, please go and finish your report with Alisa and Elliot". With those words she walked out of the inn.

'I screwed up'. Rean thought after she left. 'Sorry Laura… I'm not ready to tell the truth about that and even less ready to come to terms with it'. He unconsciously moved a hand to his hearth as a memory that haunted him surfaced in his mind. 'I really hope coming to Thors was the right decision'.

Chapter Text

"It's time to wake up". Group A heard the voice of Margot from the door of their room as she kept knocking.

"Thanks, we're getting up". Rean answered and the knocks stopped. '-sigh- I didn't get a good night sleep'. He thought glancing at the girl's beds, more specifically Laura. 'I have to apologize… and that could end up going badly'. With another sigh he got up, woke Elliot and both went to the bathroom to change.

After everyone got ready they went downstairs.

"Here are your tasks for the day". Margot said showing them an envelope like the one they got yesterday. "The market manager left them with me".

"Thank you". The black haired teen thanked her taking said envelope. "Let's see…" This time they got two requests but neither was marked as 'required'. "…so we can choose to not do anything?"

"I guess but I think it would be better if we do them". The blond archer answered him.

"Yeah I agree, you two?" Elliot and Laura each nodded to show they were on board with the idea.

"I'm surprised he gave us so few though". Alisa thought aloud.

"Maybe he wanted to give us less work because we're going back to Trista today". The musician offered.

"That sounds about right; he is a very considerate man". Margot supported. "The last train headed your way leaves here around nine tonight if you get those done quickly enough you can have dinner before you leave".

"Thank you very much".

"We greatly appreciate your kindness". The two swordsmen answered. "Shall we get started, then?" The blue haired girl added.

"Sounds good!" Alisa answered first, a bit too quickly.

"Y-yeah, they're all optional so they probably aren't too difficult compared to yesterday's". Elliot added.

'I know you two were eavesdropping and I'm pretty sure Laura could tell too; if not then this is a pretty clear giveaway'. Rean thought. 'But I don't want to keep things like that so'.

"Hey, Laura? I wanted to apologize for what I said to you yesterday evening".

The other three were surprised when he said that out of nowhere, but the two that weren't directly involved decided to keep quiet.

"As I told you then this is a matter you must come to terms with on your own; it is not something for which an apology is required". The swordswoman answered, her voice even.

"That's… not really what I meant; although I probably owe you two apologies now that I think about it".

Laura raised an eyebrow in confusion hearing this.

"M-maybe we should leave you two alone". Elliot said preparing to go out of the inn.

"It's okay, you two heard our conversation before so you can hear this too".

"W-wha h-how did you…?" Alisa trailed off in surprise.

"We knew you were listening in yesterday". Laura said.

'Th-this is something about that 'sensing' thing Rean mentions sometimes isn't it?' The red haired teen wondered in his mind but left that question for another time.

"But going back to the matter at hand, what do you mean about two apologies?"

"Yeah… sorry, I lied to you yesterday".

"Hmm, what about?"

"You know how I said Master Ka-Fai cut my training short?" Laura nodded. "That part is true but the reason wasn't because he said I don't have talent, it was because I… was afraid". He instinctively moved a hand to his hearth.

"Afraid?" The blue haired swordswoman repeated receiving a nod. "Afraid of what?"

"…"

"Rean?"

"Three apologies then". He said with a weak laugh. "Sorry I… don't want to talk about it".

"Why-" Laura was about to ask why but one look at Rean's face and she decided this wasn't something he wished to disclose. "I understand and I accept your apology". She was about to leave when she remembered what her fellow swordsman said. "You mentioned one more apology?" She asked in confusion.

"Yeah, probably more important than those other two… I wanted to apologize for making light of the way of the sword". Laura widened her eyes in surprise but didn't say anything. "When I said that my master decided that I don't have the talent and I simply agreed with it, not only it was a lie it was disrespectful; to Master Ka-fai, to the school I follow and to the path of the sword itself". He then bowed making the upper half of his body be parallel to the ground. "I'm sorry".

…

…

…

'I beg of you, say something'. The teen thought maintaining his position.

"Please raise your head". Hearing this he did as told. "I accept this apology too; however, if that's the case, then there is one other person you should be apologizing to as well". Rean threw a confusing glance at his classmate. "I can't pretend to know much about your personal circumstances but regardless of one's background or social standing, one should always be able to live with pride in him or herself".

'I'm with you so far… although I find it a bit difficult personally'.

"Thus, if you truly did make light of yourself and your own abilities, that is an act of shame for which you owe yourself recompense".

"I…" Whatever he wanted to say Rean didn't seem to be able to find the right words.

"Let me ask you a question, Rean". The aforementioned gave her his full attention once again. "Do you like the path of the sword?"

"Eh?... Hmm…" 'If I like it?' He didn't need to think about his answer much before answering with a smile. "It's not really a matter of liking it or disliking it, I don't think; it's a part of my life… an inseparable part of who I am".

"That's all I wanted to hear". Laura said smiling. "I feel exactly the same way".

"So you two are friends again, then?" Elliot asked with a chuckle.

"Hmm? Were we… not? There was never any rift between us that I knew about… was there?" Rean asked the last part to Laura.

"Not at all this was all handled rather neatly, I felt". She answered.

"You're both so simpleminded". Alisa said with a sigh.

"Why thank you Alisa". The black haired teen answered.

"I wasn't complimenting you". She said only eliciting a chuckle from the swordsman which in turn made her sigh. "I feel like an idiot spending so much time trying to devise a plan to get the two of you to make up-" She covered her mouth with one hand but it was too late, the 'secret' was out.

"You were planning a way to get us to make up?" Rean asked mildly surprised.

"It would seem we've caused you undue concern". Laura added.

"Geez! Can we just all forget about this and move on?"

"Like with the incident at the old schoolhouse?" The Eight Leaves practitioner asked grinning.

"Yes like with the incident at- I told you to forget about that!" The other three shared a chuckle and even Alisa ended up joining after a minute.

"Looks like the ground's dried after the rainfall, so to speak". Margot said with a smile. "Glad to see you all looking a bit less gloomy".

However, their conversation was interrupted by a person entering the inn while yelling for the owner.

"Slow down, Louise! It's first thing in the morning and you're about as poised to wake the dead, you're making such a commotion". The inn owner scolded the young woman who entered. "Where have you been, anyway? You're late" Those words seemed to take the wind out of her sails.

"I-I'm sorry, I just got caught up on the way here; but never mind that! We have big, big trouble! Something terrible happened over at the market!"

"Something terrible, you say?" Margot asked her worriedly.

"What terrible thing has happened exactly?" Alisa asked also worried.

Louise told them that last night someone smashed two stalls and stole the merchandise, Margot told her to get the inn ready since the market is probably opening late and they could get more guests than usual because of it; she also told Group A to leave this matter to the locals and that they should focus on their field study… but of course they didn't listen.

It's not that they wanted to ignore her warning, especially since she was saying it thinking of what could be better for them, but after hearing what happened they had to at least go see.

They reached the entrance where one merchant told them that the market wasn't open yet, they talked for a bit when they heard two voices yelling at each other and offered to try and break them up, to which the merchant thanked them.

As soon as they entered they could see the two merchants from yesterday, Marco and Heinz, blaming the other for destruction and theft and about ready to punch each other.

"HOLD IT!" Rean yelled as Group A approached.

"Class VII?" Otto, the market manager, asked in surprise.

"You kids again?!"

"Keep your noses out of this! I'm gonna make him pay for smashing my stall!"

"Smashing?" Elliot asked looking around and seeing that both their stalls were completely destroyed. "Wow, th-they're completely ruined".

"This is awful!" Alisa expressed with anger.

"However, harming one another is not going to bring them back". Laura tried to reason with the two merchants. "In the end, they will still be smashed, and you will be worse off".

"B-But this anger isn't gonna go away unless I do SOMETHING". Marco argued back. "He took all my goods too, so I haven't even got anything to sell!"

"What are you talking about?!" Heinz yelled back. "YOU were the one who stole MY goods! And you're gonna give them all back right now, AND fix the damage you did to my stall, or else I… I can't be held responsible for my actions!"

At this they once again grabbed each other by the neck and raised their fists.

'All right, stepping in'. Rean thought quickly stepping forward, placing his arms between them and pushing them away from the other, they scrambled a bit to avoid falling before getting back their balance.

"What do you think you'r-"

"SHUT UP!" Both merchants and everyone else at the scene flinched when the swordsman ordered this. "Let me see if I get this right, both of you are saying the other is responsible for destroying the stalls and stealing your goods, is that correct?"

"Yes! That's why-"

"That's stupid". Marco was going to start with the banter again when Rean said this. "What reason could there be? If it was just one of the stalls then I get it but destroying your own stall would damage your own business too".

"The stalls aren't the important thing, they can always be repaired!" Heinz answered angrily. "The problem is the stolen goods that HE took from me, without them I could go bankrupt!"

"It wasn't me! YOU are the one who stole them!"

They started to yell again saying how the other is responsible and that he should pay for the damage.

"Stop!" Although it was with less volume than before Rean managed to get them to stop their yelling just with this. "So both of you had your goods stolen right? And please limit your answer to a simple 'yes' or 'no'"

"Yes!" The two merchants answered loudly.

"Then it's even less possible for either of you to be responsible".

"…Huh?"

"Oh, I get it". Alisa thought out loud.

"What do you mean?" Elliot asked a bit confused.

"If both of them say the other stole their goods then they can't sell anything or it would imply they're guilty, so in the end they are just harming their own business". The blond archer explained.

"I see; in other words there is no reason to suspect either of them is responsible". Laura concluded.

Embarrassed by this realization both merchants hung their heads.

"So, do you think you can have an actually mature discussion this time?" The black haired teen asked his response were the two older men nodding in silence.

"What is going on?!" A new voice yelled from the entrance of the Grand Market; there stood a squad of five soldiers from the Provincial Army. "I want an explanation". The one in charge demanded.

"There was an argument between these two gentlemen about some stolen goods". The market manager Otto answered him before explaining everything that happened. "These students here helped stop it".

"Hmm, I see". The officer said half glaring at Group A. "I suppose there is no need for us to be here then".

'…why are you here then?' Rean asked himself mentally and staring at the officer.

"Hmm, should you not start an investigation on this matter?" The blue haired swordswoman asked.

"The Provincial Army doesn't have time to waste solving the petty squabbles of merchants". He answered with an 'hmph'. "We were going to stop the yelling but it seems that was already taken care of; however if you start with this again then I will take you into custody for disturbing the peace!" The officer threatened, he was starting to walk away when he noticed that Rean was staring at him. "Is something the matter kid?"

"…" The black haired teen just kept his stare; he wasn't glaring, it seemed more like he was analyzing.

The Provincial Army officer sneered before finally marching away with his soldiers.

"There they go…" Otto said with a sigh.

"What was that? There was a crime and they aren't even going to start an investigation?" Alisa wondered.

"Th-this isn't right!" Elliot complained.

"I see now how the provincial army conducts itself". Laura added.

Rean just kept staring the way they had gone.

"I'm sure you two are probably still angry but I trust you understand that neither of you is responsible for this incident". Otto said to the two merchants.

"Yes, I'm sorry for losing my head like this".

"I'm sorry too; I let my anger get the better of me".

Everyone in the market, including Group A, helped get it ready.

Once that was done, Otto asked the members of Class VII to go talk with him in his house.

"Thank you for your help during that fight and for preparing the Grand Market". The Market Manager thanked them. "I can't even begin to tell you how grateful I am".

"There's no need for that, we barely did anything". The orbal staff user was the first to answer.

"I'm just glad no one got hurt". The archer added. "I was kind of surprised when Rean stepped in like that, though".

"It was that or one of them knocking out the other, or each other, I went with the first". The swordsman said with a shrug.

"All the more reason to thank you". Otto answered. "A merchant's stall is his livelihood, any action taken against it can throw him into a blind rage and it's hard to bring someone back from that".

"It would seem the problems facing the merchants in this town are quite grave indeed". Laura commented thinking of the incident. "The provincial army may had have the intention to intervene but I don't believe they will make any attempt at trying to find the culprits".

"Quite right". Otto agreed regrettably. "It's clearer than ever now that they have no intention of trying to resolve any issues involving the market and I can't see that changing unless we decide to just accept the sales tax increase and keep quiet about it".

"Still, you'd think they'd at least be a little more… subtle about the whole thing". Alisa commented, not that she thought it was okay for them to be doing this in the first place. "There's no way those two merchants are just going to accept this and move on"

"No, I don't suppose they will, there is a good chance they may even try to find the culprits themselves and… that could go wrong very easily". The market manager agreed. "Not to mention that if word gets out certain groups of people could begin boycotting the marketplace something definitely has to be done… I'm just not sure what".

"…"

"Is something wrong Rean? You're awfully quiet". Elliot asked his friend.

"Are you feeling unwell?" The swordsman kept quiet a bit longer before facing Otto.

"Sir, I have a favor to ask; would you consider allowing us to investigate this morning's incident?"

"What?!"

"Are you suggesting that we attempt to find the perpetrator who destroyed the merchants' stalls ourselves?" Alisa and Laura asked in disbelief.

"It's a kind offer but as I said yesterday, this is our affair, not yours". The manager answered calmly. "You're students, you have your own studies to worry about and I wouldn't feel right interfering with them". Rean shook his head at hearing this.

"We're students training for the military, though; we can't just stand by and allow something so unjust to go unchallenged". He answered him. "It's the provincial army's responsibility to address this, sure, but they're shirking their duties here and that reflects poorly on us all".

"W-well, that's true enough, I guess…" The red haired teen of the group said. "But do you really think we're up for something like this?"

"I kind of have to wonder about that too; I mean, at the end of the day we're just… amateurs; we should at least check with Instructor Sara first and see what she thinks".

"She's already told us". Rean answered to his blond classmate. "'Put your heads together and think, and I'm sure you'll see what you need to do' Her words; this seems like exactly the sort of thing she meant, at least to me".

The other three widened their eyes in surprise and after a few seconds they all agreed that they would at least try.

"Are you really sure about this?" Otto asked worriedly.

"Sir, I mean no disrespect, but even if you were to say 'no' I would still investigate". The black haired swordsman answered.

"So would I" Laura supported.

"And me" Elliot joined.

"Me too" Alisa finished.

"…very well". Otto said with a smile. "If you're really sure then I won't say no; I'm very concerned about the market and the safety of our merchants so if you're one hundred percent sure, I have to admit, I truly would appreciate anything you can do for use".

"Thank you, sir. We'll do everything in our power to find answers for you".

"Just be careful, don't go seeking out trouble! I don't want you kids being put in danger". The older man warned. "We're dealing with a criminal who acts under cover of night, he may be capable of a lot more than just thievery and vandalism; remember I'm responsible for your safety. If anything were to happen to you, I couldn't even look Vandyck in the eye anymore!"

"W-We'll be careful; we promise!" The orbal staff user answered. 'I know I will, at least. I probably need to be more careful than anyone else here'. He added in his mind.

"Now that that's settled, we should act quickly". Laura suggested.

"Yeah, let's get this investigation started!" Alisa supported.

And so they left Otto's home.

"So, first things first". Rean started. "What do we do about the other requests we have?"

"…Oh right". The archer of the group said.

"I had forgotten about that to be honest" Elliot admitted with embarrassment.

"Even if we agreed to investigate this, we should still make sure they are taken care of". The swordswoman gave her opinion.

"I agree; that IS one of the objectives of this field study after all". Alisa supported.

"So do I, I would feel bad if we just ignored them". The red haired added.

"We're all in agreement then". Rean said taking out the envelope. "Two requests, a monster extermination and looking for a missing wallet". He read out loud. "I think we should split up".

"That seems to be a good idea, any objections?" Laura asked, the other two shook their heads.

"All right, now about how we do that… Laura would you mind coming with me to hunt that monster?"

"Not at all".

"Elliot and Alisa take care of the wallet; there is a good chance you won't have to leave for the Highway so once you're done try and see if you can find out anything about the robbery".

"Got it". They both answered to the Eight Leaves practitioner.

"Let's meet back at the inn once we're done, we'll have a quick bite to eat and share what happened". Everyone nodded to show their agreement. "All right then, let's split up gang".

And so the four went their separate ways.

Rean and Laura marched to the West Highway to look for the monster they have to slain, it wasn't hard to find since it was a giant bird flying near the ground.

It proved to be a lot tougher than it looked but weak to fire, and although neither of them was particularly good at using arts they both had a Master Quartz that specialized in fire more or less evening things out, they managed to beat it with a combination of swordsmanship and using said arts taking turns to distract it while the other prepared. Laura finished it off using the 'Radiant Blade Dance' after it was weakened enough; they sustained some wounds but nothing too serious.

Elliot and Alisa's task was relatively simple… just tiring and time consuming. They ended up walking around the whole town looking for the person who lost the wallet.

One of the merchants had found a wallet yesterday and kept it in case the owner would come and pick it up; so far no one did, hence the request.

First they found a train ticket in it (aside from a lot of money) so they went there to ask.

One of the station employees told them that a young lady had come in a panic to make an inquiry about her lost wallet, saying how she was at a complete loss without it; he told them she mentioned going back to the inn to do a thorough check.

The Weathercock Inn was the only inn the town had as far as the two teens could tell so that was their next stop.

They asked Margot about the wallet and she told them they were looking for someone named Annabelle but she had just left wanting to search the rest area in the Grand Market for her missing wallet.

Elliot and Alisa asked some of the people there if they had seen Annabelle, of course giving a description of a woman searching for something since there were little chances of anyone here knowing her if she was staying at the inn and had a train ticket for tonight, one of them told them that he saw someone that fit that description saying something among the lines of 'I have no choice but to rely on Aidios now'.

"I think there's only one place that could be…" Alisa trailed off with a forced smile at the obvious clue.

"Yeah, let's go to the church". Elliot said as they started to walk out the Grand Market.

"This is starting to get a bit tedious". The archer confessed. "Let's hope she really is at the church".

"Yeah". Her classmate answered with a nod. "Hey, aren't those Rean and Laura?" He pointed towards the west exit of the city where the two were coming from.

"Oh, hi you two". Rean greeted when they got closer.

"Hey, how did it go?" Alisa asked looking them over.

"We sustained some minor wounds but nothing too serious, it proved to be a rather challenging foe". Laura answered her. "How about you?"

"We ended up running around the whole place; there is a good chance she is at the church so that's where we're going next". The musician answered.

"Lead the way". The black haired swordsman said as the now complete Group A walked together.

Luckily they didn't have to search much, as soon as they entered the church they heard a woman asking for help saying how she lost all her mira.

When they called out to her she first thought they were trying to rob her… in a church no less, but Group A explained the situation about how one of the merchants asked if they could give it back to her; she then offered a reward in mira that they declined but accepted when she gave them a souvenir from the Grand Market at her insistence.

They reported back to the merchant Lizzie about the wallet and went back to the inn to get something to eat, Rean and Laura got their wounds treated too.

Once they finished with that they went to the town square.

"So you guys couldn't investigate anything due to the wallet?" Rean asked just to be sure.

"Yeah, sorry, it took longer than we expected". Alisa apologized for both her and Elliot.

"There is no need for an apology". Laura assured them. "More importantly we should focus on starting now".

"I think we should start at the Grand Market; that is the scene of the crime after all". The Eight Leaves practitioner suggested.

"Can't argue with that!" His red haired friend supported. "We should probably get statements from those two merchants before anything else".

"Indeed, after what happened they probably calmed themselves so perhaps we can get something a bit more substantial from them". The blue haired swordswoman added. "And although it is scarce we should also consider the possibility that they did indeed sabotaged themselves"

"Yeah, personally I doubt it but its best if we don't rule out the possibility". The black haired teen agreed.

"We'll need to keep a close eye on the time, though". Alisa reminded them. "If we miss the last train towards Heimdallr we'll have no way of getting back to the academy today and we've already spent a good part of the time we have on the other tasks".

"Let's not waste time then, let's go".

Once again the four went to the Grand Market this time looking for Marco and Heinz, they weren't near their stalls so they went to ask Lymon and he told Group A they were in the rest area.

"Oh, there they are". Alisa said when she saw them together in one of the tables.

"Hmm? You're the kids from the military academy". Marco said when they approached the two older men.

"What are you doing here?"

"You see…" Rean explained to both of them about how they were investigating what happened last night.

"You're investigating?" Heinz asked in surprise.

"That's right and we'd really appreciate if both of you can answer a few questions".

"…I suppose it can't hurt". The suit wearing merchant answered with a sigh. "It's better than doing nothing at least".

"Y-you don't have to sound so… pessimistic". Alisa answered him.

"Well, can you blame me? You're students at a military academy; you're not exactly ace detectives".

"Come on Heinz, it can't hurt to hear them out". Marco said, although judging from his tone he was thinking the same thing.

"I already said that but there isn't much I can do to help; I didn't see anything worth mentioning".

"You didn't?" Rean asked.

"As soon as I made sure my stall was ready to open the next morning, I left everything set up and went home, the other merchants around here can vouch for that". His expression suddenly fell as he sighed. "Guess I shouldn't have left the stall unattended, though; by the time I got in, it was too late, the deed had been done".

"I see… what about you?" Elliot asked the other merchant in the table.

"I left the market right after arguing with Heinz here and I didn't come back till this morning; I stayed at a friend's place, another merchant, just got piss drunk and ranted at him all night".

"Since we're on the subject… why are you two sitting together like this?" Alisa asked a bit confused. "It's great that you aren't trying to knock each other out but it seems a bit odd".

"Well, after you guys left we apologized to each other". Marco started to explain. "When you said the thing about 'if either of us is responsible then he can't sell anything either or it would be the same as admitting they're guilty' we realized that we were been stupid about it… so we made peace".

"And we're on the same boat so now we're just… lamenting". Heinz added with another sigh that was soon accompanied by one from Marco. "This reminds me, I am sorry for my behavior today and yesterday".

"Me too, sorry".

"It's okay, we get why you would react like that". Rean assured them. "Another thing, what was stolen?"

"In my case it was processed foods; nuts, cheese, bacon… all foods that have a long shelf life, made with local ingredients; let me tell you when I saw my things gone I REALLY sobered up".

"For me it was accessories, I have a sample with me… my last one". The merchant in a suit looked in his pocket and took out a bracelet. "It's been a real hit lately in the capital so I was hoping to bring the fad here by selling them at the market… and now this is the only one I have left… I dread to think just how much money I lost in a single night".

"I hear you; I could make do even without a stall but without anything to sell… I guess this is where the dream ends for me". Both merchants sighed simultaneously.

"I'll be honest with you two, I'm not sure how much we'll be able to do for you but you have my word we'll do everything we can".

"So… you know, try to cheer up?" Rean and Elliot tried to assure them but it seemed to have little effect, they did wish them luck though but it was clear the two merchants weren't expecting much.

After talking with them the members of Class VII walked back to the entrance of the Grand Market.

"That's all the two victims of this crime have to say, it seems; what does everybody think?" The black haired swordsman asked his friends.

"Well, I know we can't completely rule it out… but I really don't think either of them was responsible". Elliot answered first.

"Both merchants certainly have adequate motive to damage the other's stall but, even without taking into account the matter that neither could sell anything without implying their guilt, the chance of both of them committing the same crime on the same night, without crossing paths, is virtually nil". Laura supported the red haired teen is statement.

"It's not impossible that they were just out to steal each other's merchandise but I don't believe that's what happened and both of them have alibis confirming that they were somewhere else when the crime took place". Alisa also supported.

"I'm inclined to agree I can't see either of these merchants being responsible for what happened". Rean put the proverbial 'final nail in the coffin' for that line of thinking. "So we're going to have to look elsewhere to find viable suspects".

"Where, though? I mean, who could it possibly have been?" Elliot asked.

"Maybe one of the other merchants was having trouble and after listening to their argument they saw an opportunity?" Alisa offered, although she wasn't too thrilled about the idea.

"I'm afraid that line of thinking would not help us figure things out". Laura answered her. "If that's the case then we would need to investigate every single merchant here and check their alibis, even if we were to split up I'm afraid we wouldn't be able to confirm everyone's story and in the case it wasn't a merchant we would only waste valuable time".

"Hmm, I guess you're right, but how are we supposed to start narrowing down suspects then".

"Well… there is one thing that's been bugging me for a while". Rean said earning the attention of his three friends. "There's one group of people involved in this whole situation whose actions don't seem to make any sense… maybe if we can work out the reasoning behind their strange behavior we can come one step close to finding our culprit".

"Wh-whom do you mean?" Elliot asked.

"The Provincial Army". He answered immediately. "They haven't done a thing to try and solve this crime, despite it happening right under their noses and that begs the question… why not?"

"Hmm… the market manager said they're refusing to fulfill their role due to the tax issue, which means the provincial army should refuse to intervene in quarrels within the market as well". Laura said.

"If that's the case, then why did they appear this morning?" Everyone other than Rean widened their eyes after hearing this.

"Now that you mention it, that really doesn't make any sense". Alisa was the first to talk. "They said they were there because of the noise, even if the dispute was over by then, it is weird they would get involved".

"Yeah, one minute they're refusing to do anything, then the next they're taking a stand". Elliot added, noticing the inconsistency. "It's definitely suspicious".

"My point exactly, there's definitely something unnatural about the way they're conducting themselves and since we have no other feasible leads, what do you say we go to the army's guardhouse and take a look around?" The Eight Leaves swordsman asked. "We might be able to learn something from them that could aid us in our investigation".

"Hmm… that may be worth an attempt". The other sword user supported.

"The guardhouse isn't too far from here, let's head on over and see what we can find out!" The archer of the group agreed as they all started to walk to the guardhouse.

"I'm surprised you were able to see that Rean". Elliot said to his black haired friend. "How did you do it?"

"Elementary, my dear Craig". He said putting on a deerstalker hat that he got out of nowhere and taking it off and it disappearing just as fast.

"Wh-where did you get that hat?"

"What hat?"

"The hat that… never mind, you were saying?"

"It was just something that struck me as odd, and to be honest I'm partially hoping I'm wrong about it".

"Why?" The read haired musician asked tilting his head.

"…Because it would mean that the provincial army was most likely in on it with the culprits". Their conversation was cut short when they arrived at the guardhouse.

"Hmm? Aren't you those students from that… military academy, was it?" A soldier standing in front of the guardhouse asked. "What are you doing here?"

"We're terribly sorry to trouble you, but we were hoping you might be able to help us with something". Rean answered as calmly as possible. "Could we ask you a few questions about the incident that occurred at the Grand Market his morning?"

"…What?" The soldier's demeanor clearly changed after he heard this. "What does that have to do with you?"

"U-umm…" Elliot mumbled trying to find a good excuse but Laura beat him to it.

"We're visiting this town on a field study as students of Thors Military Academy and we would very much appreciate the chance to see how experienced soldiers such as yourselves handle difficult everyday situations".

'…By Aidios, that was some quick thinking Laura'. Rean thought doing his best to keep his surprise from showing in his face in front of the soldier.

"This seems a perfect opportunity for an anecdotal case study, and could prove most invaluable to our education… if you'd permit it".

The soldier stood silent for a few seconds saying he'll go see what he can do and marched inside the guardhouse.

"It looks like we might be able to hear what they have to say for themselves after all". Alisa said once the soldier was out of earshot. "Nicely done, Laura!"

"Heh, in times like these we need to make good use of our positions; no one can fault a student for wanting to learn, after all". She answered with a smile.

"Even so, that was some real quick thinking you did there". Rean also congratulated.

"But now comes the hard part". Elliot said with a sigh. "This makes me nervous".

"Well, let's just wait and see what we can get out of them". The black haired swordsman said. "Remember, it's not always what they say that matters, but how they say it and even more importantly… what they DON'T say".

"Right!"

They cut the conversation short there because the soldier came back accompanied by the officer they met yesterday and this morning.

"I hope you appreciate us taking time out of our busy schedule for this". The officer said with an annoyed sigh. "So what do you want? And make it quick, I'm a busy man, you know."

Alisa wanted to say a few things as an answer but knew it wouldn't do any good so she simply opted to keep a poker face.

"I'll be brief, then". Rean said keeping the calmest expression he could. "We came here to discuss the incident at the market this morning; would we be correct in assuming that the provincial army will be conducting no further investigation?"

"Hmhp. Is that all you came here to ask?" He asked clearly considering ti a stupid question.

"…'is that all'? Should the armed forces, charged with maintaining the peace in this region, not be taking this matter more seriously?" Laura said, clearly angry by the answer the officer gave.

"L-Laura, I'm not sure-"

"Hmhp, you've got a big mouth for someone your age and it seems you have a lot to learn about how military units actually work". The older man said interrupting Elliot.

"What do you mean?" The archer of the group spoke.

"Let me ask you this, what should be the number one priority of the provincial army be in order to maintain the status quo?" The officer gave a few seconds before answering. "I'll tell you, their number one priority should be to enforce the will of their region's ruling lord".

'…is this guy serious?!' The four teens thought at the same time with disgust, some were better at hiding it than the others though.

"You mean Duke Albarea".

"As members of the provincial army, the will of the nobility is absolute". He kept going. "We're just following our orders, protecting what we have a duty to protect".

"…I assume you're referring to the local petition against the sales tax increase". Rean said as calmly as possible. "So you're saying as long as the petition isn't withdrawn, the Grand Market isn't something you have a 'duty to protect'?"

"Interpret my words however you want". The officer sneered. "We're soldiers, we follow orders; that's how the military works and we don't need some fresh military academy inductees telling us how to do our jobs".

By this point every member of Group A was glaring in disgust at the guy, some with less intensity than others, but glaring nonetheless.

"So, is that it then? I hope this has been… enlightening; now, if you'll excuse me, I have a job to do"

"W-wait". Before the officer could even move for the door Elliot spoke up. "Would you mind answering just one more question?"

The other four were surprised he said this, although the reason was different between Class VII and the officer.

"…Hmph, fine; ask it".

"Well… umm… do you have any idea what might have happened to the goods Marco was handling? You know, the accessory merchant, all he was left was that one sample".

"Hmm? What are you talking about? That merchant from the capital, Heinz, was the one who was planning on selling accessories".

'Yeah, he is righ- wait!' Rean thought, apparently reaching the same conclusion as the rest of his classmates who stared at the provincial army officer.

"What did you just say?" Alisa asked, not that she needed to hear it again.

"Wh-what are you all looking at me like that for?!" He said, clearly uncomfortable.

"How do you know that?" The orbal staff user asked. "I was under the impression you hadn't investigated the matter at all". The officer gasped at hearing this.

"Hmm… how peculiar; we only discovered what each of the merchants was intending to sell a short while ago". Laura added causing even more discomfort to the older man, even the soldier standing guard started to look uncomfortable.

"S-sir-"

"W-we have our own ways of finding these things out; you'd do well not to underestimate us!" The officer said quickly. "Now, we've wasted enough time answering your questions; we're leaving!" He all but ran away while the guard urged them to leave and knowing there is little chance they could get anything else there they left and went to the town square.

"D-do you think…?" Alisa trailed off not wanting to complete the sentence.

"The fact that they know what each of the merchants was selling means they did investigate the matter after all but the burglary happened last night, and it was only first discovered this morning…" He trailed off to gather his thoughts. "Realistically, I don't think there was any opportunity during that time for them to do any digging, not without running into at least the two of you while looking of the owner of the missing wallet". The last part he said it to Elliot and Alisa.

"Agreed, I suspect they knew what each merchant was planning to sell well in advance of yesterday's incident". Laura supported. "Thought that would be easy information for them to learn, since Duke Albarea must have issued permits for both stalls". Before giving an alternative to what they were all thinking.

"That's true and the army would have no trouble gaining access to transaction records for something like that". Alisa agreed. "But… why would they bother?"

"Maybe they needed to know so they could prepare". Elliot offered.

"Prepare for what?"

"I get the impression that the incident at the market has been carefully planned out for a while now". The musician explained to the swordsman. "I don't think those two merchants being given permits for the same spot was a coincidence, either. It was probably done to get them to start fighting… so they could be robbed while there was tension between them". The other three mulled it over in their heads for a second before he started talking again. "Basically, to create a situation that couldn't be brought under control without the army's help".

"So the two merchants were being used all along". Just then a thought suddenly passed through Rean's mind. "Or were they…? No I don't think they'd do that"

"Hmm, what do you mean?" Laura asked confused on that last part.

"No, it was just a thought, I was considering the possibility of Marco and Heinz been part of the ruse… but I honestly don't think it's possible unless they're really good actors".

"Yeah, now that you brought it up I don't think we can completely rule it out… but my gut tells me that's not what's happening" Alisa answered.

"But getting back on topic, Elliot's explanation seems to fit perfectly with that happened this morning".

"Meanwhile, the provincial army has shown no interest in actively working toward a solution, unless the market manager chooses to withdraw his petition". The blue haired swordswoman said.

"So if we didn't intervene this morning they would've probably force both parties into an uncomfortable truce". Alisa thought out loud. "If they kept it up the merchants would eventually get worn down enough that they'd feel like they have no choice but to withdraw the petition… this is turning out to be an even shadier situation that I thought". She murmured the last part with a bit of sadness.

"Yeah but thanks to Elliot, I do believe we've finally uncovered the truth of the matter". He then looked at the red head in question. "By the way, it was awesome how you came up with that in the spot!"

"Hehe, I just tried to come up with something that would make him slip and this is what I got". The musician said embarrassed.

"But really, if it wasn't for you we probably wouldn't have been able to learn about this".

"It's true, that was quite commendable". Alisa and Laura praised him too.

"S-stop, you're embarrassing me". It was true since his cheeks were starting to turn the color of his hair.

"It was some very quick thinking you displayed Elliot, you'd make a fine military strategist". Laura said nonetheless.

"Really, please stop". He asked again with a smile full of embarrassment.

"So what we know is, the provincial army is somehow involved with the actual perpetrators of this crime". Rean said, partially to help Elliot out of his situation. "The only way to solve it once and for all, though, seems to be… well, to find them and catch them but if this was carried out by members of the provincial army, that's not going to be an easy task". The last part seemed to take the wind out of his sails but Laura helped with that.

"No… I don't think anyone from the army was directly involved". All eyes went to the swordswoman. "The soldiers here are far too proud to dirty their hands with such escapades"

"I tend to agree". Alisa supported. "Really, whoever the culprits are, I doubt they're still here in Celdic; there just aren't many viable places to hide such a huge volume of goods without them being found".

"Yeah, that's a good point". The black haired teen agreed before taking a hand to his chin and murmur. "Maybe they escaped by train? No, that can't be; boarding a train with that much merchandise would raise suspicion for sure".

"It's been less than a day since the burglary happened, so they can't have gotten far". Elliot mentioned.

"Maybe we should ask around on the main roads and see if anyone saw anything out of the ordinary; someone suspicious may have been spotted leaving or even entering the town".

"That sounds like a wise course of action". Laura supported her fellow sword user. "Come, let's resume our search! We mustn't let this cowardly thief to run free!"

With renewed determination they resumed the investigation.

Chapter Text

'Hmm, this isn't good'. Rean thought standing near the East exit of the town.

Since talking to the provincial army officer the group split up again trying to find a clue, they all agreed to call the others through the ARCUS as soon as they find something resembling one.

There had been some calls but they ended up been dead ends; one in particular talked about a 'strange group of teenagers' that seemed to be able to fight strong monsters in the highway that someone heard from the farmers in the Highway.

'Well, it's not like a clue will just drop from the sky in my hands, let's keep looking'.

His next stop was the church, he was about to get in and ask when a little girl sitting in a bench outside caught his attention.

"Lulu, are you okay?" She said, talking to a cat also sitting in the bench. "Look what that nasty man did to you…"

"Umm". That sound caught the attention of the girl who turned to Rean. "Is something the matter?"

"…who are you?" The girl asked tilting her head.

"My name is Rean; I came here in a field study for school". He answered kneeling to be at her height. "Can I ask your name?"

"…I'm Mina".

"Nice to meet you Mina, did something happen to your cat?"

"Yeah, I was just chasing after Lulu near the west exit of town and there was this weird man asleep along the side of the street".

'A weird- Seriously I need to stop this habit of not vocalizing my questions'. The swordsman mentally noted.

"A weird man you say?" Mina nodded. "Why was he weird?"

"W-well, he was really drunk, the nasty smell coming off of him nearly made little Lulu faint". She explained petting the cat.

"That's terrible".

"It really was!" She agreed with an energetic nod. "I don't know who he is, but I'll have to keep an eye on Lulu to make sure she keeps her distance from him".

"Hmm, are you from this town Mina?" The black haired teen asked.

"Yeah I was born here, I know pretty much everyone".

"So you're saying this man is not from Celdic".

"I don't know every single person but I only started seeing him around a few days ago, I'd never seen him before that".

'…did I really just get a lead in front of the church? And here I thought clues couldn't drop from the sky'. Rean chuckled to himself, which in turned caused Mina to look at him curiously, but quickly got back on topic.

"Sorry about that, you said he was near the west exit?" Once again she nodded. "Thank you Mina, I think you just helped me a lot".

"I did?" She asked tilting her head in confusion.

"Hehe, yeah, I owe you one". With those words he got up and walked away while taking out his ARCUS.

"Hello?"

"Hey Elliot, I think I just got a lead".

"Really? That's great!"

"Call Alisa and tell her to meet near the west exit, I'll call Laura".

"Got it". The swordsman ended the call and marked Laura's number.

Now near the west exit they all met and Rean explained what he learned.

"So we're looking for someone drunk at one side of the road". Alisa summarized.

"Pretty much". Rean confirmed.

"I believe I may know who we're looking for then". Laura talked surprising her classmates.

"You do?" The musician of the group asked.

"Yes, while I was asking around I saw someone who fits the description given". She looked around before pointing with her eyes. "There he is".

The four saw a man sitting at one said of the road, his back against a wooden fence, with a bottle in his left hand.

'I am not thrilled about this conversation'. Rean thought, his friends probably thinking something similar, but they all walked up to him nonetheless.

"Drink! Bring me another drink!" The man yelled out of nowhere with a 'hic'.

"This guy reeks! How much has he put down?!" Alisa half yelled pinching her nose.

"It's only midday and he's already completely blitzed!" Elliot added.

"At the very least I don't think he is responsible for the robbery… he'd probably have trouble doing something like that in his state". The fuchsia eyed teen commented with a half eyed look. '…Mom, Dad, I think you raised me too well'. He thought with a sigh. "Uhh, sir? Are you all right? We can help you back home, if you'd like". The swordsman knew that they shouldn't waste time but his conscience ended up winning.

"Sh-Shurrup… Leamme alone…" The man answered. "I'm jus' a good fer nothin' who jus' los' his job… lookin' after that… nature… park… wuch my whole life…" He bantered in his drunken state.

"Nature park?" Laura asked curiously.

"You kidsh ain't heard o' it? Lunaria Nature Park! 's ta the northwest of 'ere! I ushed ta be th' park ranger for tha' old… dump… -hic-"

"And then you lost your job?" Alisa asked.

"Yeah! Outta nowhere, too!" He said taking a sip of the bottle in his hand. "I gave m' life to that job, I did. An' then… he just came… an' took it all from me!" His expression turned into one of pure rage before the next part. "That damned official jus' showed up outta nowhere… an' told me I was sacked! Ya can't just take a man's livelihood off 'im like that; 's not fair! That job was my life! My –hic- life!"

"Y-yes, we can see that…" Rean answered. 'I'm not sure how to deal with something like this… I guess I'm kind of glad Instructor Sara doesn't get so drunk'.

"It hardly seems fair to take a man's job away from him without a good reason". The blue haired swordswoman opined.

"Right?! I'm so glad shomebody unner… unnerstands how I feel". The drunk answered. "There's no way a bunch'a kids like that 're gonna do a better job 'n me!" That part stuck Group A's curiosity.

"Kids?" Elliot was the first to talk.

"I was drinkin' here last night too, see 'n a bunch'a kids in ranger uniforms went walking outta tha town through the west exit". If they weren't paying complete attention before, they certainly were now. "Weird thing was, they was carryin' a bun'cha wooden boxes, too. In the middle o' tha night! Kids these days, I tell ya…" He trailed off taking another sip.

"Y-you don't think they could have been…?" The musician of the group trailed off, guessing what would be the answer.

"The nature park… I wouldn't even have considered it but a park would no doubt provide a large enough area". The yellow eyed girl answered. "It fits perfectly".

"Yeah, they'd have no trouble stashing the merchandise there undetected". The other sword user agreed. "Lock the entrance, leave a couple of lookouts, and no one would suspect a thing for a very long time".

"And if a provincial officer was the one to tell him he was fired that's practically a smoking gun". The archer of the group added.

"Huh? I say somethin' useful or something'?" The man asked, not following the conversation. "Dunno wha' I said, but if I helped y' out, why not buy me a drink?" The students sweat dropped when they heard this.

"I would suggest you start trying to sober yourself up instead, there's a good chance we may be able to recover both your park and your job". Laura said back surprising the man.

"We know our next stop". Rean said to his friends, knowing they were all thinking the same. "Let's head on out to the Lunaria Nature Park!" They all nodded and quickly left.

"Huh? I ge' fired and all the sudde' peple wanna go ther'". The drunken man said looking as Group A left. "I wonde' what thos' oter two 's deal was". He attempted to take a sip of the bottle but realized it was already empty.

It took them more time than they would have liked but they finally arrived to the park.

"Lunaria Nature Park, huh?" Elliot said looking at the entrance. "Seems less like a park and more like a forest".

"Yeah, it really does feel a little out of place, sitting smack dab in the middle of farmland as far as the eye can see…" Alisa agreed.

"It may have had some religious significance in ages past; perhaps it was a place where animists of ancient times chose to enshrine the spirits of the forest, there's a place like that in my hometown". Laura commented.

"Yeah, there's one in mine too". Rean added.

They looked around the entrance and noticed something weird.

"That park ranger made it sound like there would be people here, if they really are the culprits, maybe they've run away already?" The green eyed teen asked.

"Hmm… this woodland is too dense to reliably intuit whether anyone awaits within". The swordswoman of the group answered.

"Yeah…" The other sword user agreed, having been trying to feel anyone's presence with no luck.

"Hmm, what's this?" The blond haired girl asked squatting to take a look at something in the ground.

"It's…"

"A bracelet?" Elliot finished for Rean when he trailed off.

"How did a bracelet come to be in a place such as this?" Laura asked.

"…Just as I thought". The archer said picking up the bracelet and getting back up. "This bracelet has the same design on it as the ones that merchant from the capital was planning on selling".

Her three companions widened their eyes at hearing this.

"R-really?"

"You're sure?"

"Positive, there's no doubt in my mind that it was designed by the same person". She answered to the musician and swordsman. "Care to give a second opinion on that, Laura?"

"I'm… hardly qualified to weigh in on recent trends…"

'Somehow I'm not surprised, not that it's a bad thing'. The black haired teen thought.

"…but there do seem to be a number of similarities between this bracelet and the merchant's goods".

"So the fact that it's here means…" The red haired teen trailed off, not needing to finish that sentence.

"It's extremely likely the culprits we're looking for are inside this park". Rean concluded as they all faced the gate.

"Sure seems that way to me". Alisa agreed, Elliot gulped nervously while Laura took a few steps towards the giant gate in front of them.

"It only opens from the inside". She said looking at the lock holding the door close. "I suppose that leaves us little choice". She took a step back before taking out her sword.

"A-are you going to destroy it?!" The archer of Group A asked in surprise. "W-will you be able to?"

"The lock seems quite solid but my sword should be enough to-". Halfway through answering she had moved her sword over her head and was about ready to bring it down when.

"Wait". The other sword user said this stopping her in her tracks and moving beside her. "I'll do it; I can get it done more quietly".

"Oh?" She uttered in surprise.

"R-really?"

"Wh-what are you going to do?" The other two asked in confusion, it wasn't so weird to think that a zweihander like Laura's could get it done, albeit with a good number of hits… if it wasn't Laura hitting it; but Rean doing the same with his sword was a bit more strange.

Nonetheless, Laura sheathed her sword and stepped away without a word.

Now standing in front of the lock with his sword sheathed and his right hand on the hilt, Rean took a deep breath.

"The Eight Leaves One Blade school's fourth form". He expelled all the air in his lungs before. "Autumn Leaf Cutter". He did a quick draw of his sword.

"Hmm?" Alisa and Elliot looked confused and were about to wonder if something went wrong when the bar holding the lock split in two pieces.

"Seriously?!" The archer asked in disbelief.

"Wow! You cut it right in two!" The musician said equally surprised.

"I did, thankfully". Rean answered once again sheathing his sword.

"Spectacular". Laura commented after a few seconds. "It's an honor bearing witness to one of the skills of the Eight Leaves school".

"Thanks, but I'm still more or less a beginner". The swordsman answered with a chuckle then suddenly turned serious. "We don't have much time left, let's head inside and see if we can find them".

Like Elliot mentioned the place really was like a forest, there were only trees and vegetation as far as the eye could see and on both sides of the road that lead further in there were tons of little stone monuments, probably made by the animists, Laura offered, there were also some monsters varying from ones that looked like mushrooms, to oversized scarabs and a gorilla with purple and orange fur and horns coming out of its head, these ones been less common to see in the forest, at least as far as Group A could tell for now, but significantly tougher than the other two types and even less common but not as tough there were some pandas, they were still rather annoying since they had an habit of literally jumping on top of them, the hit with their entire weight making them disoriented for a while, that the other monsters seemed happy to take advantage of.

"I never noticed before but you use the fourth form in combat quite often". Laura mentioned after they finished another group of monsters.

"It's the form I'm better at". Rean answered her.

"So you know the other forms then?"

"Aside from the fourth I know the second, seventh and eighth forms; the fourth is the only one I can actually use in combat though". He stopped for a second thinking. "Well, technically I can also use the eighth but that one is for unarmed combat…" He got a chill after saying this.

"How many forms are there?" Alisa asked joining the conversation.

"Eight in total but there are variations for each one".

"Variations?"

"Yeah like-". He stopped mid-sentence when he felt the presence of human beings ahead.

"There they are!" Laura whispered as the four hid behind a lifted up piece of the ground that acted as a wall for the road.

"Are they the ones responsible?" Elliot asked, also whispering.

"I think so". The other male of the group answered trying to peek without been seen but what he saw made him widen his eyes in surprise. "Why are they here?!"

Unaware of the students watching them the group of six kept talking.

"THAT WASN'T THE DEAL!" Or more like yelling.

"YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO LEAVE A PART OF THE GOODS THERE!" Two of them were complaining to the other four, the last ones been dressed as park rangers with hats and matching blue shirts and pants with boots, while the other two…

"Aren't those the two merchants that got their goods stolen?!" The archer yelled, or would have if Group A wasn't still hiding, so it was whispered yell.

"So they were in on it?!" The green eyed musician asked too.

"It would seem so". Laura answered.

"So what are you gonna do about it?" One of the fake park rangers asked back, probably the leader. "The deed is done, we can't give you back the goods or it would raise suspicion". The man smirked evilly while looking down on them. "But by all means, feel free to go tell the authorities about this".

"Yeah we won't stop you, promise". Another one said as the four started to laugh.

Marco and Heinz clenched their teeth in anger looking at the several boxes with all of their merchandise.

"We had a deal, why did you break it?!"

"Because we could". The leader answered as if it were obvious. "Hell, the provincial army is probably happy about it, after all if we don't leave anything behind you idiots will withdraw that petition even faster, which means even more mira for use, and in the meantime we get all these goods from you; so it's a win-win for us".

"But-!"

BANG

Marco's words were interrupted when a bullet was shot near his feet making him jump back and fall to the ground.

"You're getting annoying, I recommend you leave now". The four thieves drew an orbal submachine gun each and pointed at the two merchants who started to shiver. "I'll count till three, one-"

"Stop right there". The six men looked at the origin of the voice.

"Wha-who's there?!"

From behind the irregular part of earth that made a wall Rean came out, his sword in his sheath.

"What the-"

"What are you doing here?!" The two merchants asked.

"A student?" One of the park rangers asked in confusion.

"I locked the gate…" Another one trailed off.

"What are you doing here kid, you lost?" The leader asked as Rean calmly made his way towards them. "Not another step". The four pointed their weapons at him.

"You're the ones who caused the incident at the Grand Market then". The swordsman said not taking his eyes off the armed men.

"Hehe, so what if we are?" One of them said in mockery. "Kids these days don't know how to use their heads apparently or do you think you can beat us on your own?"

"…well, I wonder". As soon as those words were uttered an arrow flew from the right side of the criminals, finding its target on one of their hands.

"Ugh, what the hell?!" Said park ranger said, the pain making him drop his weapon and hold his wound.

At the same time a mass of water hit another one from the opposite side, the one hit managed to maintain his balance and he along with another one of the thieves turned in that direction only to see someone holding a huge sword already less than an inch of them that hit them in the back of the head with the flat side knocking them down.

The last one aimed at said person but the second he took his eyes off Rean he closed the distance and with a draw of his sword cut the weapon in half before using the flat side to hit the user in the back of the head knocking him to the ground.

"Nice work guys". The black haired swordsman congratulated as his friends came out from the bushes.

Laura broke the remaining weapons as the, now defenseless, criminals huddled up.

"Don't you think that was a bit reckless?" Alisa asked as the four reunited.

"Well… it worked didn't it?" The teen answered weakly.

"Still, if they were to shoot you on sight things could have been different; you didn't need to be the bait". Laura said back.

"Th-that's true but it all worked out in the end so why don't we just leave it at that?" Elliot tried to defend.

"In any case, we can talk about that later". The fuchsia eyed teen said walking towards the two merchants. "I think you have some things to answer for". Both merchants looked away in shame.

"This has to be some kind of joke… they're KIDS!" One of the bandits said in frustration.

"How pitiful, that barely qualified as a warmup". Laura said still holding her sword in case any of them tried anything.

"Well, when you're used to Instructor Sara's training exercises, warmups take on a whole new meaning". Alisa answered.

"That's very true". The orbal staff user agreed with a chuckle.

"I'd suggest you surrender yourselves and apologize to everyone in the Grand Market for all the trouble you caused". Rean said both to the bandits and the two merchants.

"We were going to return those stolen goods to their rightful owners too, but I guess that's not necessary anymore". Alisa said glaring at said rightful owners.

"We would also be very interested to learn who hired you". The yellow eyed swordswoman added.

"But why would they do this?" Elliot asked. "I mean the bandits I get they were hired but why would they go along with it?"

"Care to explain?" Laura asked them.

"…it would only sound like an excuse". Marco said smiling dejectedly.

"Then tell us that excuse". Rean answered.

"…we were having trouble with our business, alright?" Heinz finally said. "Things weren't working for me back at the capital, the accessories were popular but other stores could sell them more easily so my business started to decline, I thought that if I go the Grand Market maybe I could get back on my feet".

"Same for me". Marco said next. "Sales were getting worse so I tried to get them better with things like discounts or special sales but my spot at the market has never been good and it wasn't enough to keep me afloat… so I sent a petition for a better spot".

"To Duke Albarea". Alisa didn't ask, it was a statement.

"Yeah". They both answered, Marco kept talking. "We were then asked to meet with him and well…"

"Did he tell you to do this?" The blue haired girl asked angrily.

"Never with those words, just implying what was expected of us… and what would happen if we refused". The other merchant answered. "We said no at first but we were desperate, it was either we played along or we go out of business".

"…hmm?" Suddenly the musician of the group started to look around frantically.

"Elliot?"

"What's wrong?"

"I-I don't know, I just… I just thought I heard the sound of a flute".

Before they could ask anything else another sound caught their attention, and it was definitely not a flute.

"RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRGGGHHHHHHH"

"Wh-what was that?!" The archer asked.

"It sounded like the cry of an enormous beast" Laura answered as they now started to feel a tremble in the earth and something rapidly approaching.

"Wh-what's happening?!" One of the bandits asked in a panic.

"It's coming this way!" Another one added with the same tone.

Soon enough the creature responsible for the commotion appeared.

A giant baboon with mostly black and orange fur except around the neck where it was mostly yellow and white in his throat; except for its knuckles the creature was completely covered in fur, stone-like pauldrons coming out of its shoulders as well as several strange growths on its entire back and two sets of horns coming out of its head, both of them flat ended; the first set was comparatively small when compared to the second one, darkly colored and pointing upwards while the second set was lightly colored and pointed straight out from its face. Its mouth filled with sharp razor teeth that he kept showing at them and yellow bloodshot eyes.

"Wh-wh-why is that thing here?!" One of the bandits yelled in panic trying to crawl away, too frightened to stand up.

"We were told Grunoja didn't come to this part of the forest!" Another one said in the same state.

"Heeeeeeelp!" A third one asked to anybody, while the fourth bandit along with the two merchants was too terrified to actually react other than gawking in fear at the giant creature.

"A giant baboon?!" Elliot asked in a similar state to the bandits and merchants, although he stood on his feet while tightening his hold on the orbal staff.

"I-it's huge". Alisa stated the obvious with a gulp.

"I believe we're dealing with the ruler of this forest!" Laura said; her sword at the ready. "What would you suggest, Rean?!"

'That we get the hell out of here!... it's what I would like to say'. Said swordsman thought before answering. "They may be criminals but we can't just leave them to die!" With a grunt. "We're going to have to fight it!"

"Understood". The swordswoman answered as calmly as possible.

"A-all right!" Alisa said preparing an arrow.

"Aidios, help us!" Elliot begged to the Goddess while tightening his hold on his staff even more and using it to hit the ground once a faint yellow glow appearing beneath the members of Class VII along with some sort of sound.

Grunoja let out an almost deafening roar before lunging towards the students, they all prepared a combat link, Rean with Alisa and Laura with Elliot, and dodged to the sides in those pairs, the monster stopped a few feet from where they were before and turned around looking between the two, probably trying to decide which group to attack first.

It didn't got to decide when this time they lunged at it, Rean and Laura moved in front of it just to quickly side-step when the baboon raised both fists and tried to crush them, Alisa shot an arrow aiming for the monster's face but Grunoja managed to raise its left arm to block it.

Laura tried to capitalize on that and attacked its exposed flank but even with her sword she only managed a flesh wound; she immediately jumped away knowing that one of the beast's arms was coming her way, she dodged the hit and now Grunoja was completely facing her which gave Rean a chance to attack its blind spot.

Noticing that the wound Laura was able to make was shallow at best he opted for using the Autumn Leaf cutter and slashed at its back, aside from a roar that seemed to be more of anger than pain he didn't have any more success than Laura.

"It has a tough skin". The Eight Leaves practitioner said in annoyance taking a step back like his fellow sword user did before.

Both of them kept this up while the archer and orbal staff user hit it from a distance, it did seemed like they were doing damage but nothing more than scratches at best while even a blocked hit was able to send any one of them practically flying away.

"We need to find a weak spot or this is meaningless". The blue haired girl said as she tried to parry one of the beast's fists, managing to avoid any serious damage but feeling numbness in her hands nonetheless.

"…guys, let me try something". Elliot said taking a few steps back from the creature, although he was already a good distance away, he then held his orbal staff with the gem pointing at the creature and the staff pointing straight to the skies. "Analyzing enemy attack patterns". His friend didn't really get what he was doing but didn't have time to ask as all of their attention needed to be in Grunoja but after a few seconds the musician spoke again. "Aim for the back of its right leg".

Rean was the one closest to it so he did as told as soon as he saw a chance, he didn't have time to concentrate on using his quick draw so he just slashed as hard as he could.

To everyone's surprise Grunoja let out another roar but this one did seem to be out of pain.

"Next, around his lungs on that same side". The musician said next and the swordsman once again listened while Laura attacked near the left shoulder, once again it cried out in pain from both attacks, the swordswoman knowing where to attack due to her combat link with Elliot. "Alisa aim for its left leg, as close to the knee as possible".

"Got it". She answered preparing another arrow. "Turn to flames". With those words the tip of the arrow was covered in fire. "Burn". And when it connected it made a small explosion on its objective.

They weren't sure how but Elliot was telling them to hit exactly where it hurt so no one questioned it for now; however even for a wild beast Grunoja seemed to understand who the biggest threat was at the moment and so forcing the two swordsmen away by flailing its arms it charged towards Elliot.

The musician is first instinct was to panic but that wouldn't do anything so instead he did the same thing he did at the old schoolhouse, as if preparing a fishing rod he moved his staff back which started to glow and when he moved it back on front several bubbles appeared popping in contact making the creature fall asleep.

Or that's what should have happened.

The bubbles did little more than nothing to stop the giant baboon's advance that kept running towards the red haired teen, he was about to try and repeat his earlier move but there wasn't enough time, it would close the distance before that, the only thing left he could do was put his staff in front of him and hope it would protect him from at least a part of the damage.

The beast was about to reach him but suddenly lost its balance and had to stop to avoid falling to the ground, Elliot was clearly confused and when he looked closely he saw that one of the monster's legs was buried in what seemed like a broken piece of earth and not one that just appeared out of nowhere, the damage seemed to follow a line all the way till Laura who had her zweihander glued to the earth where the whole fissure started.

'Did she break the earth all the way over here?!' In any other situation he would have yelled that in amazement but this wasn't the time to be worrying about that so instead he quickly put distance between him and Grunoja as the two front line fighters closed the distance to the creature once again.

They repeated the earlier pattern, this time making sure not to give the monster a chance to go for Elliot or Alisa by Rean and Laura making sure at least one of them was in the middle at all times forcing its attention on them. This kept going for a while, the damage to the monster adding up, not that they were coming out unscathed, every once in a while Grunoja managed to catch the front liners off guard, they did the best to avoid any big hit and the range fighters made sure to heal them but healing arts weren't miracle workers, they can cure minor wounds and depending on where and how deep even a gash isn't out of the question, but one direct hit from the giant baboon's enormous fists would be more than they could manage.

'All right, this is working'. Rean thought having just hit another spot marked by Elliot. 'It will take time but if we keep this up there shouldn't be any problem'.

If only life was so easy.

Both Rean and Laura stood in front of Grunoja preparing to attack again when it suddenly moved its head to the left and saw the bandits and the two merchants watching the fight.

'Oh, crap!' Group A didn't even finish that thought and the beast was already moving towards them.

"Run, quick!" Alisa yelled but they were too scared to even move.

Grunoja seemed to have set its sight on Marco who shivered as soon as he noticed the monster's eyes on him as it reached its target it prepared its right fist moving it backwards.

'This is how I die?' Marco asked in his mind. 'Hit by that monster in this place?' He wasn't able to dodge or try to block, his entire body refused to listen so he simply prepared and hoped for a quick death as the giant fist approached him but when it was about to connect he was pushed away, he looked in the direction the push came from and saw Rean there.

'Just in time'. The black haired swordsman thought as Grunoja's fist collided with his left side and was sent flying away colliding with the trunk of a tree as if he was just a rag doll been thrown around.

"Rean!" His three friends yelled in worry as gravity did its work and he fell to the ground.

'That… got a few ribs'. The teen thought trying to get up but only able to rise to a four legged position before coughing violently, each cough worsening the pain on his side, without raising his sight he saw a shadow beneath him, he didn't need to look up, that shadow was definitely Grunoja's ready to finish him off.

"ARCUS activate!" Alisa yelled sending an art towards the beast a large mass of flames erupting from beneath it and forcing it away.

Laura wasted no time going back to close quarters while Elliot rushed towards Rean's side.

"Rean, are you okay?! Talk to me".

"I'm… fine". He said with a ragged breathing. "Go… help them".

"B-but-"

"Go!" He shouldn't have raised his voice since that only gave him another coughing fit.

"A-all right but before that". He quickly casted a healing art on Rean that, although it couldn't heal his wound, it would at least ease the pain a bit. "Hang in there".

With those words he moved away so if Grunoja were to try and attack him it wouldn't notice Rean.

.

.

.

"Damn it, we can't keep this up much longer". Alisa said once again using the art she used to save Rean. "Laura, can't you use that secret move of yours?"

"I can't". The swordswoman answered trying to hit one of the spots Elliot transmitted from their combat link but Grunoja forced her on the defensive moving one of its giant arms, without Rean to distract it the chances for her to attack were significantly lower than before. "There is no opening I can use, maybe I could have before but it wouldn't have been enough to kill this beast".

"Then what do we do?!" Elliot asked in a panic, already searching for another weak point.

"I'll make an opening". The three turned towards the origin of the voice and saw Rean on his feet.

"But your wound-"

"Don't miss the timing". The swordsman interrupted Alisa as he broke their combat link and made one with Laura.

"…understood". The blue haired swordswoman answered preparing to attack as soon as the opening was made.

Ignoring the pain coming from his left side Rean tightened his grip on the blade; he raised the arm holding it over his head and bent his elbow pointing the tip of the weapon to the ground, the tachi was close almost touching his face. He brought his free hand near the center of the blade and closed his eyes to concentrate.

'Flames, gather on my blade!' Commanding this in his mind he opened his eyes and the weapon ignited out of nothing, he moved it to his right and behind him while his left arm went back to his side.

Maybe out of instinct, Grunoja turned to look at the teen but before it could react he had already closed the distance between them, it noticed the flames surrounding the weapon and the movement the human had already begun to hit it from his right using the empowered weapon, it quickly brought one arm to block the attack, even if it would hurt Grunoja could use its other arm to literally squash Rean to the ground but pain never came.

Instead of attacking there Rean had feinted the first hit and just moved his sword to the other side, since the arm was now in the way of Grunoja's eyes it couldn't see until he took another step forwards, now been half a meter away from the giant baboon's torso this time he did attack delivering an horizontal slash to its mid-section, not giving it even time to cry in pain he grabbed the tachi with both hands and raised it over his head. "Strike!" Bringing it down with a diagonal slash he passed through the creature leaving a large flaming wound on it.

Once his attack was finished the flames disappeared from his blade as if they were never there and having used up all of his remaining strength the teen fell to one knee using his weapon to avoid falling completely.

Enraged due to the sudden pain and in a state of panic due to the flames that still burned its fur the monster turned wanting to smash the one responsible for its wound but the second it turned around an arrow flew hitting it square on its left eye, eliciting another cry of pain.

"Radiant…" Not missing the timing Laura closed the distance, her sword already prepared to strike. "Blade Dance!" The three slashes from her most powerful technique connected adding three more serious wounds on the creature.

Grunoja roared once again looking at the group of students who were already prepared to keep attacking but before they could the monster started to step back before completely turning away and escape.

Everyone kept their stance for a full minute until the sounds of Grunoja's footsteps could no longer be heard and, almost as if the strings of a marionette were severed, they all fell to their knees.

"That was kind of… terrifying…" Alisa said trying to catch her breath.

"I-I thought we were done for…" Elliot stuttered in a similar state.

"Still… at least we were able to force it to flee". Laura said, probably been the first time any of her classmates saw her tired.

They then got up and went to Rean.

"Rean, are you okay?" Alisa asked worriedly.

"…I'm alive, does that count?" He tried to chuckle but quickly regretted it as it caused him another coughing fit this time, though, he coughed blood.

"Q-quick we need to get him back to the town". Elliot said in panic.

"It's true, here let me help you". Laura offered.

"U-unbelievable". The four heard one of the bandits say.

"They beat that thing". Another one said in awe.

"What are they teaching these kids in that school?" Heinz asked equally mesmerized.

"Umm…" Marco on the other hand approached the group. "P-please let me help you get back".

Laura, Elliot and Alisa glared at the liar but.

"It's okay guys, let him". Rean told them.

"A-are you sure?" The blond archer asked.

"Yeah". Having his permission Marco moved and put the teen's right arm around his back to support him. "Thanks".

"That's my line... thank you".

Just then a whistle was heard.

"What?!"

"Uh-oh". The archer and musician said looking at the source of the sound.

"It seems we have some unwelcome guests". The swordswoman added looking at the officer they talked to back at the guardhouse along with six soldiers who quickly surrounded the teens and Marco.

"Put your hands in the air!"

"Don't try to resist!" Two of them yelled.

"Why are you surrounding us and not them?" Laura asked calmly.

"Keep your mouth shut!" Another one ordered.

Just then the bandits started to laugh.

"Looks like all your hard work was for nothing, huh? Sucks to be you!" One of them said as they're laughter intensified.

"Seems that way, we ended up saving your lives so I guess 'nothing' is a good way to put it". Rean answered making the bandits stop laughing, whether it was because of surprise at the comment or embarrassment for that fact, only they knew. "Well, almost 'nothing' anyway". He added thinking of the two merchants.

"They're not even trying to hide their involvement". Elliot said about the soldiers.

"Utterly shameless". Alisa agreed.

"You're jumping to an awful lot of conclusions". The officer said taking a few steps towards them. "I see two groups of people and a collection of stolen goods, but no indication which group is responsible". He stated matter-of-factly. "And you, merchant, I suggest you move away or we will have no choice but to consider you part of their ploy". Marco flinched at hearing this but the officer continued without waiting for a response. "Do you have any way to prove that the four of you aren't the perpetrators?"

'I swear if my ribs weren't broken I would hit you in your smug face… I may try anyway'. Rean thought angrily.

"Do you intend to frame us?" Laura asked glaring at the officer.

"I'm just telling you that you need to mind your own business and learn your place, the Kreuzen Province is the territory of Duke Albarea and I will not have a gaggle of bratty students poking their noses where they don't belong!"

'Ok, not the time for jokes about hitting people, what to do? Think Rean'. The black haired teen tried to come up with something, anything, that would help them in this situation.

"You will back down now, or we'll be more than happy to arrest you right here and drag you to Bareahard City, kicking and screaming".

'Bareahard-wait a second… I either pull this off or I drag us to an even worse mess but I think it's worth a shot, I just hope they think I'm just in pain and not lying when they see my face'. The black haired swordsman thought before suddenly chuckling.

"What's so funny?" One of the soldiers asked.

"Oh, nothing, just thinking what Jusis's reaction will be when he finds out".

"Jusis?"

"Y-you mean Jusis Albarea?" At these words the soldiers and the officer all turned to Rean.

'Gotcha'. "You don't know? He is on our same class in Thors, we are good friends with him".

'We are?' The other three members thought but kept this to themselves.

"I-I did hear that he was attending Thors". One of the soldiers said.

"S-seriously?" Another one asked.

"Not to mention that you're trying to arrest the daughter of the Radiant Blademaster I admit, you guys have guts". 'I am deeply sorry for using your father's status like this Laura'. He apologized in his mind and made a note to remember and properly apologize to her later.

All the members of the provincial army started to visibly sweat at hearing all this.

"But please do arrest us if you want, I am certain Jusis wouldn't do something like take this matter to his father" The swordsman said as sarcastically as possible.

"Wh-what do we do?"

"M-maybe he's lying".

"But if he isn't".

"Enough!" The officer yelled silencing his subordinates. "Even if what he is saying is true we have our own duty, take them away".

'Shit, shit, shit!' Rean repeated in his mind over and over.

"I'm afraid you'll be doing no such thing". A new voice said coming from the same way they all got here.

"What?"

"Who's there?!" The officer yelled before gasping in surprise.

Out of nowhere four armed people wearing a gray military-like uniform appeared and surrounded the soldiers.

"I-it's…"

"The R-Railway Military Police…" One of the provincial army soldiers finished for his companion.

"Railway Military Police?" Laura asked curiously.

"Yeah, the RMP!" Elliot answered.

"They're supposed to be the most elite unit in the whole of the Imperial Army". Alisa added.

From the entrance to this part of the forest one more person appeared, wearing the same type of uniform with long sky-blue hair tied in a ponytail on the left side of her head.

"Th-the Icy Maiden!" Another soldier said noticing her. "Why has one of the chancellor's dogs come here?"

"What is the meaning of this?!" The officer asked. "This area is under the jurisdiction of the Kreuzen Provincial Army! The Imperial Army has no right to intervene!" He seemed to be trying really hard not to start yelling at the top of his lungs.

"With all due respect, Celdic is a major interchange station in our railway network". The 'Icy Maiden' answered calmly. "So in point of fact, we have every right to investigate any incidents that occur in this general vicinity as I'm sure you well know".

The officer could only gasp knowing she was right.

"And in accordance with our investigation thus far, after having questioned all those connected to the incident we have concluded that it is impossible for any of these students to be guilty of these crimes". She added, all the way sporting a pleasant smile. "Do you wish to contest this judgement?"

The officer only stared at her not saying anything for a while.

"…Hmph, I suppose not". He finally said trying to avoid the sense of defeat that he felt to show in his face.

"Well then, may I suggest you leave us to do our jobs? The RMP will take responsibility for returning all of the stolen goods to their rightful owners as well".

"Men! Withdraw". The officer ordered with a grunt and so they all left, not before the bandits yelled about how they had a deal going on.

"Take them into custody". The RMP officer said and the soldiers broke formation from the provincial army soldiers and went towards the bandits.

The officer said something to the 'Icy Maiden' before leaving but Group A was too far away to hear, once he was gone she took a few steps towards the students.

"Thank you all very much for your assistance". She said before noticing Rean. "Are you injured?"

"Yeah… a few broken ribs". He said once again coughing up blood.

"You, give him medical care". She said to one of her subordinates who quickly went to check on the swordsman. "What about the rest of you?"

"U-umm, we're fine". Elliot answered.

"Are you certain?"

"Yes, we appreciate your concern". Laura assured her, Alisa nodding as well.

"Very well". She left it at that. "My name is Captain Claire Rieveldt of the Railway Military Police; we're a division of the Imperial Army". Claire introduced herself. "And you are the visiting students from Thors Military Academy, are you not?" The four nodded, although Rean wasn't noticed since he was lying down so the member of the RMP could tend to his wound. "I'll need to file a report about what happened here, so would the four of you mind accompanying me? This goes for you two gentlemen as well". She added talking to the two merchants.

Of course they all complied and went back to Celdic, the RMP soldiers vanquishing any monsters that tried to attack them while Marco helped Rean walk back.

"So you decided to try and investigate the situation on your own, is that correct?" Claire asked holding a notebook in one hand and a pen in the other; the group of students, merchants and the RMP were in a medical tent so they could answer while receiving treatment; Rean might have been the one who took the worse of the beating but that doesn't mean the other members of Class VII came out unscathed.

"That's right, what happened didn't sit right with us so we decided to help". Alisa confirmed. "In all honesty though, if Rean wouldn't have offered it I'm not sure any of us would have".

"I agree, while I found the situation unjust, to say the least, I cannot assure that I would have offered my help in that way". Laura added.

"Thanks you two". Rean said a bit embarrassed from the other side of the curtain.

"And so after you found out about what happened from this 'drunk near the west exit' you all went to Lunaria Natura Park which then ended up with you confronting 'Grunoja' and managing to force it to flee".

"Yes". The four confirmed.

"Thank you, now to the two merchants, may I ask why you were there?"

Marco and Heinz clearly gulped at the question but came out clean and told her everything.

"I see, it is regrettable to hear this but do you have any other proof than your word?"

"N-no". Heinz answered while Marco just looked away.

"If it means anything, I believe them". Rean said causing the RMP officer to look at him, or his form behind the curtain anyway.

"Oh, may I ask why?"

"It checks out, the market manager told us about what was happening in Celdic with the increased taxes and how it was affecting the people there, not to mention the attitude the Provincial Army had taken". The black haired teen answered while raising an arm for the medic to apply some bandages to his wound.

"I must admit I didn't think they were in on it until we saw them there". The blue haired swordswoman admitted.

"They did make a good job of playing the victims". The blond archer added.

"We…we were payed some acting lessons to make it more believable". Marco answered in embarrassment. "Not that we had a choice about taking them or not"

"We kind of had to improvise when you broke our argument". Heinz said talking to Rean.

"By the way, back then you mentioned something about the bandits leaving part of the goods behind, what was that about?" Elliot asked remembering the argument they were having.

"Well, the plan was supposedly to have them break our stalls and steal most of our goods but leave a part we set aside there, this one was rather hidden actually". Heinz answered. "We didn't notice that they had taken that part too until after you talked to us in the rest area of the market, once we did we went to the Park where two of those bandits were mounting guard, they guided us where the rest were… and you know what happened afterwards".

After an uncomfortable silence Elliot spoke.

"Umm, what's gonna happen to them?" He asked about the two merchants.

"It's too soon to say but you have my word we will conduct an investigation on the matter, what happens will depend on what we discover". Claire assured them.

After a few more questions they were patched up and it was time for Group A to leave Celdic.

Claire and Otto escorted them while they went to the inn to take their luggage and back to the train station.

"We really are grateful for everything you've done today". The market manager said to the students. "Thanks to you the ones responsible for the crime were found and arrested… although the circumstances on it are regrettable". The students silently agreed. "Even so, I am truly grateful".

"I'm just glad we were able to help". Rean answered sincerely.

"Besides, it was only thanks to the RMP's involvement that we were able to catch the culprits in the end". Alisa added.

"Oh, there's no need to be so modest, all we did was physically arrest the culprits, the rest was entirely on you". Claire answered. "If not for your assistance in stopping the criminals from escaping, we would have missed out chance to intervene altogether; I believe the credit for this achievement is yours, and tours alone".

"All this attention is kind of… embarrassing". Elliot said with an awkward laugh.

"Still, I suppose it would be rude not to accept your thanks". Laura said.

"Indeed! You should all be very proud of what you've accomplished here". Otto exclaimed. "So, can we leave everything in your capable hands from here on out, Captain?"

"Of course, I'm intending to leave a number of our soldiers here for the time being". Claire answered the market manager. "Rest assured that we'll take care of any further problems that may arise".

"We are greatly obliged; still, while your personal loyalties may differ, both the RMP and the provincial army are made up of Erebonian soldiers so I'd appreciate it if tried not to… stand out too much; your presence may create some anxiety among the locals".

"I'll be sure to keep that in mind". The RMP captain assured him before turning back to the students. "Thank you for your cooperation with our report; I'm sorry to take up so much of your time".

"Oh, no; not at all". Rean assured her.

"And, umm… we really appreciate you coming to our aid like that". Alisa added.

"Oh, there's no need to thank me, really; in fact, the more I think about it, the more I regret having stepped in at all". She answered making the teens puzzled. "Overcoming such an impossible situation was probably meant to be part of your field study too. To… build character, perhaps".

'I really, really, hope it wasn't'.

"Yeah, I may be good, but I'm not THAT good".

"Eh?!"

"I-Instructor?"

"I was wondering when you'd show up".

The instructor just calmly walked down the stairs of the station.

"It's been a while, Sara". Captain Claire greeted.

"That it has; six months, give or take?" She answered. "Honestly, I had no idea you RMP folks were going to get involved with this". Her expression turned rather sarcastic before adding. "I suppose you had everything that was happening here figured out all along?"

"Heh, you overestimate my abilities". The sky blue haired woman answered with a smile. "I did receive a report that suggested there might be trouble here, but that's it"

"Oh, from your 'brother', I take it? Nothing gets past you lot"

"We're just trying to make sure we're prepared to deal with any problems that might arise". She then turned to leave. "But, I'm sorry to say I don't have any more time to catch up with you right now; I really need to be taking my leave". She did a salute towards the students. "I wish all the best to you and the rest of Class VII!" And with that she walked away.

"W-was she really… part of the military?" The musician of the group asked. "She sure didn't seem it…"

"Her movements and actions, however, were those of a skilled officer". Laura answered. "Highly skilled".

"Yeah and the rest of the RMP seemed really well trained too". Rean added.

"You know her, Instructor?" Alisa asked to the older woman.

"You could say that". She answered vaguely. "Anyway, it looks like you've managed to finish all the tasks I laid out for you! So I think it's about time we take our leave of this place too".

And so they got on the train and left Celdic behind.

This next part is a 'blooper' sort of speak that I've done in a few chapters, it has nothing to do with the actual chapters but I thought they were funny and added them every now and then.

"…guys, let me try something". Elliot said taking a few steps back from the creature, although he was already a good distance away, he then held his orbal staff with the gem pointing at the creature and the staff pointing straight to the skies. "Orbal staff, give me sight beyond sight!"

"Sword, give me strength beyond strength!" Laura said afterwards.

"Bow, give me aim beyond aim!" Alisa next.

"Tachi, give me power beyond power". And finally Rean.

"VII…VII—VII—Class VII HO!" They all yelled at the same time projecting a giant VII in the sky.

Chapter Text

One train trip later, which was expend talking about the field study and the purpose behind it with Sara sleeping to avoid answering any questions, and Group A made it back to Trista.

"We're back". Alisa said once the train stopped.

"I'll go wake up the Instructor". Elliot got up and walked towards Sara while everyone got their luggage and exited the train.

"Do you require any help Rean?" Laura asked after he flinched for a second when he reached for his stuff in the train on one of the compartments above the seats.

"I'm fine, thanks". He answered her. "I just need to make sure not to move around much".

"Are you sure? Even with treatment you did get hit pretty hard". His blond classmate said worriedly.

"Really, I'm fine, don't worry".

"Still, you should go to the infirmary tomorrow so they check on the wound". The red haired musician suggested.

"I agree, it's better to be safe than sorry". The swordswoman agreed.

"All right, I'll go tomorrow I promise but let's get back to the dorm for now".

Satisfied with that answer they made their way to the dorm, luckily it is pretty close to the station so it only took them a few minutes.

Alisa went to open the door but.

"Hmm? It's locked". She said trying again with no effect.

"Oh, Group B isn't here yet I guess". Sara said taking out a key from her pockets and unlocking the door. "Let's go, you guys probably just want to go to your rooms and sleep don't you?"

A mix of positives nods and groans were her answers.

"Well too bad, you still need to write the reports for your second day". She crushed their hopes for rest while smiling.

"C-can't we do that tomorrow?" Alisa half-pleaded.

"No can do, you have to do it while it's still fresh; come on the sooner you start the sooner you'll finish".

"…let's just get this over with". Rean said with a sigh.

The four went to their rooms only to drop their stuff before going back down and start writing those reports in the dining room.

"I feel we could have asked Captain Claire if we could get a copy of her report for the school". The black haired teen thought aloud.

"I wish you would have thought about that back in Celdic". The archer answered with a sigh.

"That would have been useful, I admit". Laura supported.

"Hehe, next time we should make sure to remember that". Elliot added. "Although I hope we never end up in that sort of situation again".

"Yeah". The other three nodded and kept writing their reports exchanging notes every now and then.

"Oh, I've been meaning to ask, Rean". The blue haired girl of the group spoke gaining the attention of the fuchsia eyed teen. "What was that technique you used against Grunoja?" The other two members quickly joined in.

"Yeah, your sword just… lighted itself on fire". Elliot added.

"It's nothing really; just something I've been practicing for a while". He answered with a shrug. "First time actually using it in combat though".

"So you learned how to light your sword on fire, without using an orbment, and you say 'it's nothing really'?" The archer of the group asked with a raised eyebrow.

"You did something similar with your bow". The swordsman countered.

"That was a feature of the orbal mechanism inside it, as far as I can tell your sword doesn't have anything like that".

"Yeah that's true… speaking of orbal mechanisms, is that how you were able to tell Grunoja's weak points?" Rean asked to his green eyed friend.

"Oh, yes it's something the orbal staff can do". He answered with a nod. "I can analyze enemy patterns and find out where you can really hurt it and sometimes even predict movements to prepare a counter".

Their conversation was cut short when they heard the door of the dorm opening.

"Oh, the others must be back". Rean thought aloud looking at the diner's open door just in time to see Jusis and Machias practically storm in making a bee line for the stairs.

"Let me pass". Jusis told the green haired teen at the first step.

"You let me pass". Machias said back as they started to argue right there.

"…I think that tells us how their field study went". Elliot mentioned with a forced smile, the rest of Group A nodding with a similar expression.

"Oh, you guys are here already". Gaius said looking at the rest of his classmates.

"Hey Gaius". Rean greeted as he along with Emma and Fie entered the room they were in. "…should I even ask?" He said taking a glance at the other two members of Group B.

"It was… less than ideal". Emma answered after a few seconds.

"That's an understatement". Fie commented with her signature bored expression.

"What about yours?" The tall foreigner asked.

"Believe it or not, I think ours might have been worse". Elliot answered which earned a curious look from the other three.

"Ok guys, good to see you all here". Sara interrupted, having been seating near the kitchen the whole time. "Now get started on those reports, I want them ready before school tomorrow". She then went to the stairs. "That goes for you two as well". The 'prideful warriors' groaned before averting their gazes from one another. "See you tomorrow guys". And with those words the Instructor went upstairs.

"…she just went to sleep while making us work didn't she?" Alisa asked what was in everyone's minds.

After one more collective groan they kept writing the reports, starting in Group B's case.

"So why do you think your field study was worse than ours?" Gaius asked curiously.

"Well…"

.

.

The members of Group A took turns to tell them about their experience in Celdic, from the shared room, to their activities, to the incident at the market and with the Provincial army and eventually Grunoja, all the while still writing the reports.

"You faced a giant baboon?!" Emma asked in disbelief.

"Yeah, it got a good hit on Rean". The other orbal staff user answered.

"Are you okay?" The lancer of Class VII asked worriedly.

"Got a few broken ribs on my left side, other than that I'm fine; the RMP gave us medical treatment". The swordsman answered. "That thing packed a punch". He winced remembering the impact.

"What about yours, how did your field study go?" Laura asked.

"It was…"

"Awful". Fie finished for Emma after a second.

"If a certain person wouldn't second guess every decision things could have gone rather smoothly". Jusis said joining the conversation for the first time.

"And if a certain person wouldn't try to make everyone fall in line and follow their orders there wouldn't have been any problems". Machias said back.

"Guys we're all tired, do you think maybe you can leave the fight for tomorrow?" Rean asked trying to play mediator, to his surprise they both shut up and kept writing their reports, probably too tired themselves to keep arguing at this point. 'I have a feeling those two reports will have a lot of inconsistencies with one another'.

They eventually finished and went to their rooms to sleep.

The next morning most of Class VII was, understandably, tired; some of them didn't even want to get out of bed but ended up doing so anyway by their Instructor pestering them about how 'she will get a scolding if they don't go'.

'It's been a while since I felt so tired'. The Eight Leaves swordsman thought with a yawn while walking downstairs.

"Good morning Rean".

"Eh? Ah, morning Gaius, you're up early".

"I'm used to wake up around this time". The exchange student answered. "What about you?"

"I'm the type that tends to move around while sleeping, who would have thought having some broken ribs could make that a bad thing?" He answered with a chuckle. "Anyway I'm off; I promised I'd go to the infirmary".

"I'll come with, I was about to go anyway".

And so the two early risers left the dorm.

"So what did you have to do for your field study?" The black haired teen asked as they exited the building since aside from knowing that Machias and Jusis made things difficult, which was expected, they had mainly talked about Group A's activities the previous night.

"Mainly get some things the locals asked for; also exterminate a monster". Gaius answered. "Sadly we weren't able to finish every request".

"Machias and Jusis had something to do with that?"

"I guess you could say that". The lancer answered. "They weren't able to properly fight together, if it was just a matter of forming a combat link then there wouldn't be too much trouble, we were five so there wasn't a need for them to link with each other".

"But the issue didn't stop there". The swordsman guessed giving his friend's choice of words.

"They started to argue with each other more than once during combat, at one point I had to step in before they punched each other". Despite his words, Gaius didn't seem upset in the slightest.

"You had it rough huh?" There wasn't anything else he could really say on the matter.

"It wasn't so bad, although if Instructor Sara didn't show up when she did there is a good chance we would have failed on our field study".

'Ok, my curiosity is piqued'. "What did she do?"

"I'm not sure, she took them away to talk and after that they calmed down a quite bit".

"Huh? Wonder what she said to them…" He trailed off thinking for a second but gave up, there was no way to guess what she said to make them work together… or at least to not argue every time the other speaks. "Anyway, want to stop by Kirsche?"

"That sounds like a good idea".

It didn't take them long to get in the café, they were practically at the entrance when Rean asked that.

"Welcome-oh hey Rean". Fred said when they entered.

"Hey Fred, is it open yet?"

"Yeah, you're actually our first clients, what can I get you?"

Both teens took a seat at the counter and ordered a cup of tea and toasts.

"You know him?" Gaius asked after Fred left to prepare the food.

"Sort of, remember our first free day after we finished with the old schoolhouse?" He got a nod as a response. "I stopped by here afterwards, I went to order something and noticed Fred looked down, I asked him what was wrong and he said he ran out of a spice for his food so I told him I might know someone who still has some, I had to ask Fie to get it for me since school was probably about to close". Rean explained. "Oh, that pizza we got was a thank you from him by the way"

"I see; you ended up quite busy that day huh?"

"Yeah, I guess you could say that".

"Order up". Fred came back and placed their food in front of them. "That'll be 700 mira".

They payed and started to dig in while making some idle chat.

.

.

"Thanks for the food Fred". Rean said once they finished.

"It was delicious". Gaius complimented.

"No worries come back again".

With those words the two left and continued their walk to school.

"I'll stop by the art club before class". The tallest member of Class VII said once they entered the main building.

"Got it, see ya later". His friend answered as he made his way to the infirmary and knocked at the door.

"Come in". With Instructor Beatrix's permission he opened the door. "Good morning".

"Good morning, sorry to bother you so early but I was hoping you could check a wound". The black haired teen said politely.

"Of course, Sara already told me about it, some broken ribs correct?"

"Yeah".

She guided him to one of the beds and started to examine him.

.

.

"I think that does it". Instructor Beatrix said once she finished putting some new bandages on him. "Whoever treated you did a good job; I'm going to apply some healing arts to help with your recovery but you can't do any sort of excessive effort until I say so, this includes combat training as well". She took out an orbment while saying this and started to apply said arts.

"Understood". Rean answered buttoning up his shirt. "Can I at least practice combat links?"

"If it's just linking then there is no problem, I'll let Sara know about it later".

"Thank you; out of curiosity, how long till I'm recovered?"

"Hmm… with the healing arts I'd say a week more or less but come see me so I give you the all clear, don't try to do something silly until then". The Instructor answered finishing up with the arts. "Come by every day so I can keep applying them".

"Got it, thank you again". He did a bow before leaving. 'Guess I'll go to the classroom'.

During combat practice.

"All right class, today we'll be having some one-on-one sparring bouts between you guys". Sara said after everyone gathered in the field, earning an annoyed grunt from almost everyone too since they were still tired from last night. "Rean you're excused due to your injury".

"Got it". The swordsman answered with a nod.

"Instructor, can I ask why we'll be fighting each other?" Emma asked.

"Sure thing, the reason is rather simple; it helps you with your combat links".

"How come?" Laura asked curiously.

"You know how it's possible for two or more people to fight together even without combat links, right?" Everyone nodded yes. "There are number of reasons for that one of them is because they're used to their partner's combat style, the ARCUS kind of gives you a shortcut to that level but been able to fight with each other without the need of a combat link is a good thing too; you never know if your unit might be damaged or lost during a real combat situation".

Several murmurs of 'that makes sense' were heard.

"So, let's get started shall we? First is Laura vs Machias".

Both took a few steps forwards and stood facing each other.

'This… will not end well'. Machias thought taking out his shotgun with a gulp at the same time Laura took out her sword.

"All right, ready?" The Instructor raised a hand and at the same time she brought it down said. "Begin!"

While they were fighting Rean asked the other members if they don't mind practicing combat links with him until it was their turn, with the exception of Jusis, everyone accepted, with different degrees of enthusiasm about it.

.

.

.

The first fight was… quick, to say the least; Machias tried to keep his distance by way of shooting while stepping back but Laura managed to catch up and throw his shotgun away with her zweihander.

"Stop, Laura is the winner". Sara announced.

"…yeah, I expected that". The green haired teen said with a sigh while walking to get his weapon.

"Well, I knew this was probably how it would end". Elliot admitted.

"You'd think that Machias would have the advantage since he can fight at a distance but I guess Laura is that much stronger". Alisa added in agreement.

"All right, next one Alisa vs Elliot".

"Eh?" Both of them said looking at the other.

"Good luck you two". Rean said to his two friends as they started to walk.

"Ready?... Begin!"

.

.

This one was a lot more balanced compared to the previous one, Alisa had more range with her weapon but Elliot was better at using arts; in the end though the musician managed to break her balance with a Needle Shot and then hit with Aqua Bleed, ending the fight.

"Stop, Elliot is the winner".

"W-wow, I can't believe I won". The green-eyed teen said in surprise.

"It was a good fight". Alisa complimented as they walked back.

"Next up, Emma vs Jusis".

"Y-yes". The bespectacled girl said walking up, while the noble did the same in silence.

"Ready?... Begin!"

.

.

Similar to the first fight Jusis managed to get the upper hand by way of getting at close range, Emma did try to put up a fight and managed to throw some arts at him but he proved to be fast enough to dodge and the one that managed to hit only grazed him, he stopped his sword just before the blade touched her neck but the match was settled.

"Stop, Jusis is the winner".

Emma sighed in defeat as her classmate sheathed his blade.

"You should have gotten some distance before attempting to use arts; otherwise it's easy to get close before you have time to cast them". The noble said as he walked back.

"O-oh, thanks for the advice". Emma is only answer was an 'hmph'.

Of course the other glasses wearing member of Class VII wasn't thrilled about this turn of events as he gritted his teeth while glaring at the blond noble who upon noticing grinned in mockery.

"Well, last but not least Fie vs Gaius".

The last two combatants walked up and took their combat stance.

"Who do you think is gonna win?" Alisa asked curiously.

"I haven't seen Fie fight much so I really can't tell". Rean answered.

"Ready?... Begin".

.

.

The last one ended in a draw, Sara declared it as such after around 20 minutes of fight that was going nowhere.

"Hmm?"

"Something wrong Rean?"

"Is it your injury?" Elliot and Laura asked worriedly.

"Oh no, it's not that… just something that's bugging me is all". His friends were about to ask again but Sara ended up beating them to it.

"All right guys, with this we are done with combat training for the day, back to the classroom with you all".

The rest of the day went by and finally classes were over.

"You guys going to your clubs now?" Rean asked as he, Elliot and Gaius left the classroom.

"Yeah, I want to get some practice in". The musician answered first.

"One of the other members was going to give some advice later". The tallest of them answered next. "Although sometimes I feel like she is two different people".

"How come?"

"She just seems to act different some days compared to the rest".

They talked a bit more until it was time to go their separate ways.

'Well, what can I do?' Rean wondered as he exited the main building. 'I'm not allowed to train, I don't have a club to go to… Emma mentioned a bookstore once now that I think about it, guess I'll go and see what they have'. And so he did.

He found a book called Red Moon Rose that seemed interesting, bought it and went to the park to read it.

'…really?' The black haired swordsman thought with a half eyed look, there on one of the benches was Fie soundly asleep. 'I should wake her up…' He knew he should but seeing her sleeping so peacefully, he couldn't help but have second thoughts. '…I guess I can do that after I finish with the book'. He went to sit to the bench in the opposite side and began to read.

.

.

.

'The first chapter ended in a cliffhanger?!' Rean yelled in his mind. 'I need to get the second volume the next change I get'. With that he closed the book, he was about to go and wake Fie up but the bench she was in was empty. '…was I so engrossed on the book I didn't notice or did she purposely hide her presence?' Whatever the answer he wouldn't find out just thinking about it so he got up ready to leave.

"Oh, hi Rean".

"Hmm?" The named looked in the direction the voice came from and saw Gaius walking up to him. "Hey Gaius, you finished with club already?"

"Yeah". The lancer answered with a nod. "I got some pretty useful tips".

"Glad to hear it". Then Rean asked something that was bugging him. "Hey, during your fight with Fie today, do you think she was holding back?"

"I'm pretty sure of it". Gaius answered immediately. "I got a pretty good measure of her strength during our field study, compared to that… she didn't go easy on me but she didn't go all out either".

"Huh, I wonder why?"

A few days passed.

As Rean said he went to the infirmary every day so Instructor Beatrix could help with his ribs, they were better by now but she kept his ban on any training aside from combat linking; he was a bit bothered by it but wasn't going to disobey her, first because she was the doctor not him and second… something told him that would be a very bad idea.

Once again he thought of what he could do to pass the time while waiting and remembered something very important he still had to do so he grabbed the necessary items and off he went to the Student Union building.

"I guess it's here". The black haired swordsman thought aloud before knocking on the door.

"Come in".

"Excuse me". He opened the door and saw a room with several pictures hanging from the ceiling and on the wall, with two sets of curtains making separate rooms.

"Welcome to the photography club, how can I help you?" A male student wearing the nobles' uniform with yellow eyes and brown hair and holding a camera said.

"Hi, I'm Rean Schwarzer, I was wondering if you could let me use one of the darkrooms here?"

"Nice to meet you the name is Fidelio, I'm a second year and the head of the photography club". He introduced himself. "Do you wish to join then?"

"Not exactly… I already promised I would help the Student Council so I can't really join". Rean answered scratching his neck.

"Hmm…" He looked at Rean for a few seconds before. "Now that I notice, you're from Class VII aren't you?"

"Yes". The black haired teen answered with a nod.

"I heard you guys went to a field study last weekend, is that correct?" Once again he nodded. "Am I correct in assuming you want to reveal the pictures you took there in that camera of yours then?"

"That's correct".

"…tell you what, you can use one of the darkrooms but you have to show the pictures to me". The head of the photography club said smiling.

"I don't mind… but why?"

"You get to travel and see other places to take pictures from, the most I can do is go to Heimdallr and even that is hard outside of the free days, not to mention the size of the capital". Fidelio answered slightly dejected. "So I'm curious to see what photos you take, what do you say?"

"If that's it, I don't have a problem with it". Rean said smiling, just then the door opened.

"I'm back". Another teen, this one wearing the commoners uniform with brown eyes and pink hair, although mostly was hidden with a beanie.

"Welcome back Rex". Fidelio said to him. "This is Rean; I'm going to let him use one of the darkrooms from time to time".

"Hi". The member of Class VII greeted.

"Hey, nice to meet'cha, so you're going to reveal some photos huh?" The swordsman nodded. "From pretty girls I guess". He added with a grin and elbowing him… unfortunately for Rean the elbowing happened in his left side making him flinch.

"Are you okay?" Fidelio asked worriedly as Rex took a step back.

"I'm recovering from some broken ribs on that side". He answered holding the place of his wound.

"S-sorry". Rex stuttered hurriedly.

"It's okay, you didn't know" Rean assured him as the pain started to subside. "Can I use one of the rooms now?"

"Oh, yes there is no problem but are you sure you're okay?" The second year asked.

"Yeah, Instructor Beatrix is treating me, don't worry".

With those words he went into one of the rooms and started to work on the pictures.

.

.

"These are pretty good". Fidelio complimented as he saw the pictures. "What are you guys doing here?"

"Hmm?" Rean took the picture he referred to, to see what he meant. "Oh, the guy that owns that stall has a daughter attending Thors and offered to let us be in charge of it for a while". He gave the picture back.

"Man, you sure seemed to have had fun on that field study of yours". Rex said placing his hands behind his back.

"It wasn't easy but I admit I had a good time… for the most part".

"Well, if you ever want to use the room again feel free to stop by". Fidelio said handing over the pictures. "Just tell me beforehand"

"I'll do just that then, thanks". With that he left the room.

In the hallway Towa bumped into him, on his right side luckily.

"Oh, sorry Rean, I was distracted". The second year apologized.

"Don't worry about it, is something wrong?"

"No, just a thing that was brought up to the Student Council's attention". She answered with a troubled expression.

"Can I help you with something?" The Eight Leaves practitioner asked.

"O-oh, thank you but it's okay we can handle it, besides I heard you got injured during the field study".

"Yeah, a giant baboon got a hit on me, broke a few ribs". The underclassman confirmed.

"Oh, I-I'm sorry for bumping into you".

"It's okay; I got hit on my left side". He assured her. "But you were going somewhere?"

"Yeah, I'm meeting up with a friend… I should really get going, see you later Rean". With that she walked away while waving a hand at him.

'Hmm, I wonder what was brought up to the Student Council's attention that would have her spacing out like that'. With that thought he left the building.

BLOOPER: Takes place after Rean first meets Towa and gets the Student Notebooks

"Dusk already?" Rean thought out loud seeing the night sky. "Can't believe she wound up treating me to dinner and she's still got more Student Council work to do yet! How is she so busy?!"Before he could continue rambling his ARCUS sounded in his pocket. 'Oh right, this things have communication functionality built in, but who could it be?' "Umm… Hello, this is Rean Schwarzer speaking".

"Guten Tag, my favorite little Wunderkind!" Sara's voice was heard from the other end. "I hear you had a nice little dinner date with the Student Council president. Ooh la la!"

Being the reasonable person Rean is he did the only thing that seemed correct at this moment… and ended the call.

'I guess I should go back to the dorm, it must be near curfew by now'. He thought moving to place his ARCUS back in his pocket but it sounded again before he could. "Hello Rean Schwarzer speaking". He had a pretty good guess of who it was.

"That wasn't very nice of you Rean". Of course it was Sara again.

"Whoops!" Saying that he once again ended the call, he didn't bother to put his ARCUS away as he was sure it would ring again… and it did.

"Hello Rean Schwarzer speaking".

"Don't do that again, I fail to find it amusing".

"Shh… sorry… shh… I'm losing you… shh". And again the call was ended. 'Hmm, she'll call again'. And she did. "Hello Rean Schwarzer speaking".

"…Are you answering just so you can hang up on me again?" Sara asked, Rean grinned and

"You know it". For the fourth time the call was ended. "This'll never get old".

Chapter Text

"Hnng… I have to get up". He said groggily as he got up from the bed and looked out the window in his room. 'I think we'll be having classes with the orbal computer, right? I can't believe it's already been a week since the field study' He got ready and exited the room.

"Oh, good morning Elliot". He heard Machias say.

"Morning Machias". The red haired teen greeted back. "Are you getting ready to go too?"

"I just finished, I was about to leave". The bespectacled teen answered, seemingly in a good mood… which was destroyed when the door to 'his' room opened revealing Jusis Albarea.

"…" The noble just stared at them before walking away, Machias kept a glare on him all the time until he went downstairs.

"Hmm, are you okay?" The red haired teen asked.

"Just fine". Machias answered in a neutral tone. "But I should be going, see you at school".

"R-right, see you there". Elliot didn't even get to finish that sentence before the vice-president walked away. 'I wonder if those two will ever get over their differences'.

With a heavy sigh he also walked downstairs.

"Oh, good morning". Emma said standing near the mailboxes when she heard Elliot coming down the stairs.

"Good morning". He then saw something on her hands that made him go pale. "Oh no! Do we have to send the reports on the orbal staffs today?!"

"Wha-? O-oh no, no, I just had some extra time so I decided to work on it". She assured him, moving one hand to emphasize her point "You still have another week before that".

"Phew, I thought I mixed the dates…" The red haired teen said in relief. "I'm impressed you had time for it though, I can barely find it usually".

"We should get going or we'll be late".

The two orbal staff users then left the dorm and made their way to the school, they ended up coinciding with a lot of other students from the other classes, including.

"Good morning Elliot". Hibelle, a second year commoner student and head of the Wind Orchestra aka music club, greeted the red haired member of Class VII he has brown hair and yellow eyes and wears glasses.

"Ah, good morning Hibelle, Bridget". The orbal staff user greeted back, also greeting another member of the Wind Orchestra that was with him, Bridget is a first year like him but is a noble student with dark green eyes and orange-blond hair.

"Oh, hi". Bridget said apparently snapping out of her thoughts.

"Is something wrong?" Emma asked.

"She seems to be worried about something but doesn't want to tell me". Hibelle answered. "I don't believe we met by the way, like Elliot said my name is Hibelle".

"Nice to meet you, my name is Emma Millstein".

"Ah, sorry I'll see you guys later". Bridget excused herself and started to walk faster, apparently going towards someone from one of the commoners classes.

The other three looked at her but shrugged in confusion once the noble girl left their sights.

Now in the main building.

"Hmm, isn't that Rean?" Emma said noticing said member of her Class exiting the infirmary, once he noticed them he went to say hello.

"Hey, good morning".

"Good morning". The bespectacled girl answered first.

"Morning, did Instructor Beatrix look at your wound?" Elliot said next.

"Yep, she said one more day and I should be back to a 100%". The swordsman answered before adding. "I don't think we met, have we?" To the upperclassman.

"I'm Hibelle, I'm the head of the Wind Orchestra". The second year introduced himself. "And you're Rean Schwarzer, right?"

"Yeah, that's me"

"Elliot told me a bit about you, he seemed distressed after you all came back from your field study and when I asked he told me about your injury".

"I see, I appreciate it Elliot but you worry too much for a scratch". Rean said grinning.

"It wasn't a scratch, you had broken ribs; everyone was worried". The musician said back.

"That's true; depending on the extent of the injury the ribs could have punctured your lungs". Emma added, the swordsman could only laugh awkwardly knowing there wasn't anything he could say back.

"I hate to leave like this but classes are about to begin, you should go to your classroom as well". Hibelle said, saying goodbye to everyone and walking away.

"He is right, let's go". Rean said as the three started to walk to the stairs.

'I'm really not good at this'. Elliot thought writing in the orbal computer the things Instructor Makarov wrote on the board, needing to move his eyes between reading a part of it then back to the keyboard over and over, making sure not to mess up. 'How is it that those two are so good at this?'

'Those two' referred to Machias and Jusis, both of them already finished and waiting for the end of the class, with a sigh the red haired musician kept going, barely managing to finish in time.

"Orbal computers aren't my thing". After the class was finished Rean, Elliot and Gaius went to get lunch to the Student Union building, the orbal staff user was sighing thinking of their previous class.

"I hear you; I keep looking between the keyboard and the board so much my neck hurts". The black haired swordsman agreed.

"What about you Gaius?"

"I'm having a hard time as well". The tallest member of the Class confessed. "Most of the things here are already something that I only read about back home, the orbal computers are something I didn't even know existed before".

"They are pretty new, supposedly there is work going on about connecting computers that are really far away from one another using signals like with the orbal communications". Elliot said remembering one of the things Instructor Makarov told the class.

"Machias and Jusis didn't seem to have any trouble though". Gaius mentioned.

"They're both usually pretty good when it comes to academics". Rean answered. "If only they were as good at dealing with each other".

Gaius nodded while Elliot chuckled nervously.

"Since we're on the subject, any ideas to help them get along?" The musician asked.

"Lock them in a room together till they sort it out?" The Eight Leaves practitioner said with a shrug.

"I think they would find a way to break the room before that happened". The lancer answered.

"Probably". Elliot agreed with a nervous smile.

"Yeah that's true but I honestly don't have any ideas". Rean said. "I don't think they hate each other, at least not directly"

"Machias clearly has something against nobles". The orbal staff user of the three said matter-of-factly. "But I don't think is something against Jusis specifically"

"He seems mostly fine around Laura". Gaius mentioned.

"Yeah…" 'Part of it is probably because he is a bit scared of her'. Elliot left that last part in his mind.

"I wouldn't say we're on the best of terms but he isn't ready to bite my head off the second he sees me". Rean added.

"Could it be because you're not a noble by blood?" The foreigner offered.

"I don't know, maybe". The swordsman put a hand on his chin in thought but after a few seconds he sighed. "Forget it, there is no way to know unless we ask him directly and whenever it's brought up he suddenly looks at me like I'm Jusis".

"Yeah, I still remember that time back at the old schoolhouse". Gaius said with a nod.

"He sure changed attitude fast back then".

"With Jusis… I don't know; it kind of feels like he is fighting back because Machias started it, at least that's the impression I got during our field study".

"That's not good either". Elliot answered.

"Yeah, an eye for an eye only makes everyone blind". Rean agreed.

They talked a bit more about it before changing the subject and eventually going back to the classroom.

After classes ended Elliot went to the Wind Orchestra's club room.

They all spent their time playing their instruments and before the red haired teen realized it was time to leave.

"Oh before you guys go". Hibelle said gaining the attention of the other three members. "Every year the Wind Orchestra makes a concert in the local church and I'd like it if we can do it this year as well".

"Emm, is there a reason why we couldn't do it?" Elliot asked, a bit confused by the senior's choice of words.

"Well, it depends on you guys really".

"What do you mean?" Bridget asked curiously.

"I'm the only second year in this club now and, although I could put a performance on my own, I know it would be a lot better if you guys join too". Hibelle explained.

"So if we say no, then you would perform on your own?" Mint, a turquoise haired girl with bright violet eyes and wearing the green uniform asked.

"I would, I don't want that tradition to end while I'm head of the club". The senior answered honestly. "But I'm not going to pressure any of you into it and there is still a lot of time to decide, just please think about it".

The three juniors nodded and with that club activities were done for the day.

"What do you guys think about the concert?" Mint asked curiously as they left the club room.

"I don't know to be honest". Bridget answered first. "I guess it could be fun but playing in front of an audience… it makes me nervous to be honest".

"Yeah, I get what you mean". The violet eyed girl said. "What do you think Elliot?"

"Well…" He trailed off, not sure of what to answer.

"It's okay, Hibelle said that there is still time to think about it so we don't have to decide right now".

"Yeah, I guess". The orbal staff user agreed; they eventually went their different ways after leaving the main building.

A few days passed and the members Wind Orchestra still weren't sure if to do it or not; Hibelle didn't pressure them on the subject, he didn't even brought it up after last time probably wanting to give them time to decide, Bridget and Mint seemed to be taking it with calm and not overthinking it but Elliot…

"Aw". Was distracted about it. "Oh, sorry". He apologized after bumping with someone from one of the commoners' classes with white hair and a bandana.

"No problem, you okay though?" The other student asked with a carefree smile.

"Y-yeah, I was just lost in thought about some stuff". The red haired first year admitted.

"Well, I don't know what got you so worked up but don't overthink things too much". He answered. "If there is something you want to do then it's better to do it than to regret not doing it… well, I think that sounded a bit like something a second year would say, wouldn't you?"

"A-ah, I guess". Elliot said unsure, the other teen simply chuckled.

"Anyway got to go, see you around first year". And with that he kept on his way.

'Better do it than regret not to do it huh?'

After he was done with the club Elliot decided to go directly back to the dorm, there wasn't much else for him to do once he arrived he heard something coming from the kitchen so he went to check it out.

"Rean?" He asked seeing his friend there.

"Oh, hi Elliot you're back early". The swordsman greeted back. "How did your club go?"

"It went well, what are you doing?"

"This". Rean pointed to the book he had opened that showed a recipe for a simple omelet. "I got it from Nicholas of the cooking club; I thought I'd give it a shot".

"I see". The red haired teen said. "Mind if I help?"

"Not at all".

With that they started to cook.

.

.

.

"Huh, that looks better than my previous attempts". Rean said after they finished cooking one omelet for each and sat on the table to eat.

"Thanks for the food". Both said at the same time before starting to dig in.

.

.

"I probably shouldn't say it since it was us who made it but that was delicious". The black haired teen said satisfied.

"Yeah, it was pretty good". Elliot agreed picking up his plate and going to the sink to wash it. "Hmm?"

"Something wrong?"

"Eh, no it's just… I thought no one cooked here so I was surprised to see those there". He pointed to some recently washed plates.

"Oh yeah, those are from the ones I screwed up on". Rean confessed.

"Screwed up on?"

"Yeah, my first attempt was more like a rock than an omelet, I did better the next time but the best was definitely the one we just ate".

"I see".

They both washed their plates and put them all back in their place, then moved to the couch at the front hall.

"So have you cooked before?" Elliot asked.

"A bit, I was never very good at it though". The swordsman answered. "What about you?"

"Same, I used to help my mom and sister from time to time but they're way better at it".

They made some small talk and eventually Elliot asked for his friend's opinion on something.

"Hey Rean, I could use your help with something"

"Sure, what is it?"

"You see, the Wind Orchestra has a tradition of making a performance at the church every year". Rean nodded to tell him to continue. "So Hibelle asked if we would like to do that this year, he said there is no pressure but I'm not sure what to do".

"Hmm, do you want to participate in that?" The Eight Leaves practitioner asked.

"W-well, it's not that I don't want to but…" The musician trailed off and left it at that for several seconds.

"But…?" Rean urged him.

"I mean, it's not like I'm serious about music or anything so if I decide to do it and I just stop halfway it wouldn't be fair to Hibelle or the others if they decide to participate". Rean is reaction was giving him the most deadpan expression possible. "Wh-what?"

"Aren't you overthinking things?"

"How so?"

"It's not that I don't get why you're worried but I can't imagine you stopping halfway at it, literally every time you're not hanging out with someone, in class or studying I've seen you with your violin in hand playing". The fuchsia eyed teen said. "In fact I don't believe you when you say that you're not serious about music at all".

"E-eh, w-what do you mean?"

"There is something else going on there but I won't pry unless you want to tell me". Rean answered with a shrug. "It's up to you in the end but I think you would regret more not doing it than at least trying". Elliot blinked a bit, processing those words.

"Heh, you're the second person to tell me something like that today". He said with a chuckle. "Yeah, you're right, I would regret it more if I don't do it".

"That's the spirit". The black haired teen said with a smile. "Hey, since we already practiced want to make dinner for tonight?"

"Sure". Elliot said smiling.

"Great, uh, we'll need to buy some more ingredients"

One trip to Brandon's General Goods later and they were cooking once again.

"By the way who was that guy who said the same thing I did?" Rean asked to make conversation.

"Emm, I didn't get his name; I think he was a second year, he had white hair and was wearing the commoners' uniform".

"D-did he have a bandana on his head?"

"Yeah, he had, you know him?"

"…if he ever tells you he wants to show you a trick say no or that you don't have a coin he can borrow".

"Ehhh, o~kay?" That got the musician confused but Rean seemed to be scowling so he decided not to ask. "Do you think they others will like the food?"

"It won't hurt to eat something other than things from Kirsche and the school cafeteria". Rean answered. "If they don't want to eat it Kirsche isn't far from here".

"True, plus all of us get to be together outside the classroom". Elliot added, his friend nodded in agreement. "With some luck maybe Machias and Jusis stop their fighting". Rean opened his mouth to say something but closed it without a word, he repeated this a few times.

"No offense Elliot, but let's not get our hopes up THAT much"

"Yeah, I realized what I said after it came out of my mouth".

Dinner eventually came and they invited everyone to eat together, surprisingly everyone agreed.

Most of them weren't that weird, unless they had something else to do they didn't have a reason to say no, but Jusis and Machias agreeing was something that caught them off guard.

Once they got to the table they realized why, neither of them said that everyone would be eating together, the tension between them could be cut with a knife.

"This is delicious". Gaius said not noticing, or most likely ignoring, the atmosphere the 'prideful warriors' caused.

"Indeed". Laura agreed, the other members agreed.

"I guess we have our dorm che-"

"No!" Rean interrupted before Sara could finish that sentence. "This is just a once in a while thing, we do have other things to do you know?"

"Eeeeh, come on what's the problem?" The Instructor said. "Everyone is happy about it".

"W-well, I have club practice and have to study, not to mention the reports for the orbal staffs so I can't really help everyday". Elliot justified.

"Then Rean will do it, he doesn't have club activities".

"First, that's because a certain someone signed me up to the Student Council behind my back". Sara whistled innocently. "Second, I help them with their activities, just today I helped Towa with some paperwork… how does she have so much paperwork?" The last part he said it while he shook his head in disbelief.

"Well~ then how about everyone takes turns cooking?"

"That doesn't sound so bad". Alisa conceded.

"True, if we all pitch in the workload should be quite manageable". Laura agreed.

"Great, so it's decided".

"You would have to cook too". Fie said to Sara.

"On second thought". Who immediately retired her idea. "You kids already have plenty of things to do; there is no need to add another one"

'She is so easy to read when it comes to this'. Everyone thought, even the two that seemed to be ignoring the conversation.

'I have a strange feeling we just connected without the ARCUS'. Rean thought before he took a glance at Jusis and Machias. 'Yeah… on second thought'.

"I guess it was a good idea not to get our hopes up huh?" Elliot said to Rean but making sure the noble and the vice-president didn't hear.

"Well, they're together in the same room and not yelling at each other, I'll call that progress". The swordsman answered raising a hand for a high-five which Elliot immediately answered.

As soon as Jusis and Machias finished they washed their dishes and left without a word, eventually they all went to sleep; Rean offering to wash Sara is plate since she passed out from drinking beer… although they had a hunch she might be faking it.

The next day after club activities.

"Excuse me Hibelle". Elliot called out to the second year.

"Yes?"

"I'd like to participate in that performance for the church".

"Oh, that came out of nowhere".

"I thought you were still on the fence about that". Bridget and Mint said in surprise.

"Hehe, well I talked about it with a friend and in the end I would regret it more if I don't at least try". The red haired teen said scratching his cheek.

"That's great Elliot, I'm sure it will be a lot better with your help". Hibelle said in appreciation; Bridget and Mint exchanged a look before smiling.

"Count us in as well". The noble girl said.

"Yeah, we want in too".

"Of course, the more the merrier". Hibelle said smiling. "I'll consult with the church to see when; we'll talk about what we'll play and such after that, fair warning though, it will probably be on a free day".

"That's fine, right?" Elliot said to the other two first years, they both nodded in agreement.

BLOOPER

"Rean, please let's stop cooking now". Elliot said panting.

"Come on Elliot, we've only made…" Rean checked his recipe book. "500 omelets, just some more and we never have to worry about not having mira again".

"But we've been at it for hours".

"What are you talking about? Look at the time". The red haired teen did as told.

"Ehhh?! But we've been cooking for hours how is it that time hasn't advanced at all?!"

"Silly Elliot, time won't advance until I finish the required quests".

"Huh, what are you-?"

"Come on, let's go sell these, then buy more ingredients and repeat". He literally grabbed Elliot from a leg and dragged him out.

"What the hell is going on?" He asked in confusion.

Chapter Text

" Quick, this way". A young boy with black hair said while practically dragging a girl younger than him through a snow covered forest.

Behind them a figure with bright red eyes kept chasing them slowly but surely catching up, the two kids' legs not been able to outrun it.

It didn't take long before the creature caught up and slashed with one of its claws, it was about to hit the girl since she was closer but before it could the boy moved in the way, protecting her. The claw hit his left shoulder making blood drip from it and sending him a few feet away due to the impact.

" Damn it". The boy cursed under his breath holding the injured place and closing his left eye in pain, the girl ran at him worriedly and-

"Hah". Rean woke up literally jumping to a sitting position on his bed, his breath ragged and practically covered in sweat; he moved a hand to his face, covering his eyes. 'Been a while since I had that dream, I would have liked to keep it that way'. He thought with a bitter smile while getting his breathing under control.

Once he calmed down he got up and walked to his window, the sun was still nowhere to be seen.

'Great'. He thought sarcastically with a sigh and decided to go take a shower to the dorm's bath, knowing every time he has that nightmare he just can't fall sleep again, so he grabbed his towel, a change of clothes and off he went.

.

.

By the time he left the shower the sun had raised; he was now wearing his school uniform minus the blazer.

'At least I was able to sleep enough'. The swordsman thought with a tired sigh while walking up the stairs and back to his room, going in the opposite direction he met with. "Oh, morning Gaius".

"Good morning, you're up earlier than usual". His friend noted after greeting back.

"Yeah, it happens sometimes". Rean answered with a shrug. "What are you up to?"

"Not much, I was just going to walk around till Kirsche opens to go and buy breakfast" Gaius answered.

"Mind if I join you? I could use the distraction". The black haired teen asked.

"Of course". The taller of the two answered. "Are you okay though?"

"Hmm, yeah why do you ask?"

"Your choice of words just now, what do you need distracting from?"

"Ah… walked right into that one". The swordsman chuckled. "I had a nightmare, a bad one, and I'd like to forget about it". Gaius nodded accepting that answer and went downstairs while Rean went to his room, grabbed his blazer and joined him soon after, they both started to walk around Trista.

"Do you want to talk about that nightmare?" The lancer asked concerned.

"Thanks but really it was just that, I'd prefer to forget about it".

"If you're sure". Gaius said not pressing the issue. "You ended up kind of joining the Student Council right?"

"I guess you could say that". Rean answered, glad to change the subject. "I'm not an official member exactly but I already said I would help out and I don't think I could juggle another club on top of that".

"Is it that much work?"

"Towa, the Student Council President, does most of it; I helped her a few times but at most I was doing like… 25% of all the work and I think I'm being generous".

"…how does she have so much work?" Gaius asked perplexed, probably been the first time Rean saw him like that.

"I have no idea, if it was me I would probably yell in exasperation and if I saw another document that needs filling I would be compelled to just grab my sword and cut it to shreds".

"I think you're exaggerating Rean; from what I know of you, you're a pretty patient person".

"Thanks for the compliment but trust me on this, if I was Student Council President that's most likely what I would do".

They made some more small talk while walking around, then as Gaius was planning went to Kirsche, ate breakfast and off to school they went.

The classes went by without anything noteworthy happening and now.

Outside of the Old schoolhouse Rean was standing with a hand on his sheathed sword while assuming the fourth form stance, he maintained it for around thirty seconds before a pale blue glow appeared in his sheath; as soon as it did he grunted and relaxed his posture.

'Takes too long'. He thought with annoyance. 'If I'm fighting along the others then maybe but I shouldn't depend on it'. With that he once again assumed his stance. 'One more time'

After Instructor Beatrix finally gave him the OK to train again he had spent a good amount of his free time doing just that; he had never slacked off but after their field study, or more specifically his conversation with Laura, he had definitely started to put more effort into his swordsmanship.

He often went to this spot in front of the school's personal dungeon because of it; there was never anyone around so he could train to his hearth's content without bothering anyone.

.

.

'This should be enough for now'. The swordsman thought having improved the time for the blue glow to appear from thirty seconds to fifteen, it still was slower than he'd like but overexerting himself wouldn't do any good and it was getting late anyway, so he grabbed his blazer, that he took off and let in one of the benches, and started to walk away. 'Let's see, cafeteria or Kirsche-?' His mental debate with himself was cut short when.

"…the hell is that supposed to mean?!" He heard a yell in the distance.

"Was that Machias?" He quickly rushed in the direction of the yell and indeed Machias was there, along with Jusis. 'This can't be good'.

"It's just as I said, your constant animosity towards me is becoming an eyesore and I would appreciate it if you stop". Jusis said, apparently repeating himself.

"Oh, so I should just be glad to have your 'appreciation' and ignore all of the things you do". The green haired teen said sarcastically.

"If you stop your taunts I'll stop mine, I believe it's a fair deal don't you?"

"A noble talking about fairness, now I've heard it all!"

"Why are you so against this? I'm simply saying to stop our constant arguments-".

"I don't need your pretentious ass to tell me what to do!" The glasses wearing student interrupted.

'I feel like I should intervene before this turns violent'. With that thought Rean approached them. "Hey, what are you two up to?" He said walking towards them while feigning ignorance; the other two turned to him, glaring. "…bad time?"

"No, not at all". Machias answered adjusting his glasses. "He was saying he wants to talk, as it turns out he just wanted to be heard".

"Hmph, I was merely suggesting that we stop with our constant arguments". Jusis said. "But it seems our dear vice-president is too hard-headed to even entertain the possibility".

"Why you-"

"Alright, why don't we just call it a day for now?" Rean asked stepping between Machias and Jusis, the first one having taken a few steps towards the second one with his fists clenched.

"Of course you would say that". The shotgun user said with disdain. "All you nobles should jus-"

"Is there a problem?" A new voice interrupted, the three teens looked in the direction of said voice and saw Laura standing with her arms crossed.

"No, I was just leaving".

"Hmhp"

With those words they both walked away in opposite directions.

"It seems they are still struggling with their differences". The blue haired girl said once the two were out of earshot.

"That's one way to put it". Rean answered with a tired sigh. "Thanks for stepping in when you did; something tells me Machias was two words away from trying to punch someone".

"Not at all, besides even if he did that I believe you would be able to handle it".

"Maybe but I don't like pointless fights". With those words they also started to walk back. "So why are you here if you don't mind me asking?"

"I just finished my club activities, what about you?"

"I was training in front of the Old Schoolhous-" The Eight Leaves practitioner stopped his sentence when he saw.

"Um, is something the matter?" Laura asked following his gaze. "Is that Fie?" She asked looking at their classmate sleeping in one of the benches behind the main building.

"Why does she keep doing this?" Rean asked to no one.

"She does this often?"

"I've seen her sleeping in places like this a lot of times". He answered. "I told her that she shouldn't but she won't listen… anyway let's go wake her up, school's about to close".

"True".

They both walked towards her and Laura woke her up by moving her shoulder a bit.

"Hngg, what is it?" Fie asked rubbing one of her eyes with her hand.

"School's about to close". Rean answered.

"Got it". She got up and.

"If you're going back to the dorm, would you like to come with us?" Before she could go Laura asked this.

"Hmm… okay". The white haired girl answered with her signature bored look.

And so the three started to walk back.

"So were you training something in particular?" The yellow eyed girl asked her fellow sword user to fill the silence.

"A variation of the fourth form, I'm still struggling with it though". He answered honestly.

"Would it be okay for you to show me that variation once you're able to use it?"

"Sure". Rean said with a nod, they exchanged some more small talk before Rean addressed his other classmate, since she was pretty much just quietly walking with them.

"Hey Fie, can I ask you something?"

"What is it?" The silver haired girl asked back.

"Do you sleep at night?" His answer was a nod. "Enough?"

"Eight hours more or less".

"Then why are you always taking naps?"

"There is nothing else to do".

"Nothing else to… what do you mean?" This question came from Laura who was clearly surprised to hear that answer.

"Just that". She said with a shrug, before they could question her further she opened the door to the dorm and went to her room.

"I wasn't expecting that answer". Laura admitted.

"Me neither… I guess she has her reasons to think that?" Rean said unsure. "Oh right I need to go buy something to eat, see ya later Laura". With those words he once again left the dorm and walked to Kirsche.

After he came back he hung out with Elliot and Gaius until it was time to eat, the three of them along with Alisa, Laura and Emma ate together in the dining room and passed the time until it was time to sleep.

Next day during fifth period.

On this one Class VII had Gender Divided Lessons with one of the other classes, in this case Class I.

In the orbal computer room.

"That's right, now you have to…" Emma was currently helping Fie finish the assignment given by Instructor Makarov.

"I'm surprised Emma is so good with the orbal computers". Alisa said standing near the two along with Laura. "But then again, she is pretty much the smartest of our year".

"True, however you also picked it up rather quickly". Laura mentioned. "Do you have any prior experience with them?"

"Y-yeah, some…" The blond archer trailed off with a nervous chuckle.

"Why did Lady Laura have to be placed in a class like that?" A girl from Class I with long ash-blond hair said, she wasn't trying to gain the attention of the members from Class VII, she simply didn't think they could hear her. "I was truly looking forwards to studying alongside her!"

"Is that girl with the glasses not the one who scored the highest on the entrance exam?" Another girl, this one with short red hair asked.

"I believe so; though, I hear she's a mere commoner". The ash-blonde girl answered.

"There's something about that silver-haired girl that I find oddly soothing". The other girl said looking at Fie. "I wonder if she'd let me stroke her hair were I to ask nicely?"

"That's quite enough idle chatter". A third girl said, this one with purple hair, yellow eyes and wearing a red headband; she was also a member of the lacrosse club same as Alisa, goes by the name of Ferris. "We are members of Class I, we are above such droll behavior!" She scolded. "As well, we cannot allow ourselves to be bettered by that rabble, not in this or any other subject".

"O-of course not!"

"I admit, though, I am finding this orbal computers rather challenging". They both answered.

"…could they make it any less obvious they're talking about us?" Alisa complained to Laura. "I mean, seriously!"

"It stands to reason they'd be curious about our class; it's hard to blame them for that, at least". The blue haired girl answered calmly.

"Alright, now…" Emma kept helping Fie who glared at the screen the whole time with an oddly determined expression.

Meanwhile at the cooking room.

"This wasn't so hard to make". Gaius said after the teacher approved their food.

"True, although I think it was easier because we could team-up". Rean mentioned; Elliot, Gaius and having made a team.

"Those two on the other hand…" Elliot trailed off watching Machias and Jusis, the first one still in the middle of cooking while the latter was taking his food to be tested.

"What do you think they prefer, this or orbal computer studies?" The swordsman asked.

"If I had to guess… probably the orbal computers".

"True, they both picked it up easily". The lancer and orbal staff user answered.

"That would be my guess too". Rean agreed. "Plus, Machias seems like he was interested in computers from before".

"Yeah, and Jusis seems to get the hang of things far quicker than most people, even if he is not interested in them at all". Elliot added. "Which probably just adds insult to injury for Machias".

"I'll bet". The black haired teen agreed. "Things almost got out of control last month right?" This was addressed to his other friend.

"Yeah, we were able to keep them under control until the Instructor arrived luckily but I'm pretty sure if she didn't arrived when she did one of them would have been knocked out".

"We really need to do something about them". The musician said with a sigh. "But I have no idea what".

"I'd like to put my idea of locking them in a room together once again on the table". Rean said with a chuckle before turning serious. "Jokes aside, though; this has gone on for way too long as it is, it needs to stop".

"Rean Schwarzer". An arrogant voice called to Rean out of nowhere, the three teens turned to look at the owner of said voice.

"I-isn't he from Class I?" Elliot asked with a stutter.

'Hmm, I know him, what was his name…?' "…Patrick, is it?" Rean asked after searching his memory for a while.

"That is correct". Patrick answered with an arrogant grin. "My full name is Patrick T. Hyarms, I don't believe I need to say anything more than that".

"We met already right? On one of our first weeks". Rean mentioned remembering their first encounter… it wasn't what he would call a pleasant memory.

"Are the Hyarms prestigious?" Gaius asked in his usual calm tone of voice.

"About as prestigious as they come, they Hyarmses are one of the Four Great Houses!" The red haired teen answered before adding. "Though they're slightly lower in rank than the Albareas" He then immediately regretted saying that when he felt Patrick glaring at him. "I-I'm sorry! I meant no offense!"

"Hmhp, it doesn't matter". It didn't sound like he meant the comment, more like Elliot's words themselves. "I didn't come here to talk to commoners or foreigners". He then walked closer to Rean almost shoving aside Gaius, although he willingly moved since, if he wanted to, Patrick couldn't move him. "I came to bring gladsome tidings to you, Rean Schwarzer". He said with a more friendly expression, or what could pass as one anyway.

"Gladsome tidings?" Rean asked again tilting his head.

"I am generously extending you welcome, to make use of the accommodations on the third floor of the Student Union Building". The noble elaborated.

"You mean…?"

"The third floor?"

"That's where the nobles' salon is, right?" Rean, Gaius and Elliot said in that order.

"Your father may be a mere baron, but that still makes you a noble".

'I don't like the way you just described my father'. Rean thought suppressing a glare; it's not that he minded that he called him a 'mere baron', neither he nor his parents or sister ever thought much of their social position, but his tone when talked about him rubbed him the wrong way.

"And though you had the misfortune of sharing a class with this…" Patrick stopped for a moment to look at Elliot and Gaius before saying. "…riffraff…" The only reason why he couldn't look down on them more was because Gaius was almost a head taller than him. "…I have decided to use my good name as a member of the Hyarms family to afford you the privilege of joining us". He then moved his fringe with an exaggerated move and for some reason sparkles appeared around his head. "I do hope you appreciate it!"

'…self-control Rean, self-control…'. The swordsman repeated in his head for a second before plastering a fake smile in his face, that anyone could tell wasn't real. "I greatly appreciate the offer however I'm afraid I must decline". He said with an overly polite tone of voice, making Patrick scowl.

"Oh, and why is that?"

"I have no desire to spend my time in the nobles' salon surrounded by all the pleasantries I am sure you enjoy there, I much rather pass the time among the 'riffraff' that are my classmates". He said making air quotes with his fingers. "So while I am glad you decided to use your name to allow me a place I must say it was for naught". All the while he kept his fake smile making Patrick's scowl deepen but before he could say anything else.

"This hardly strikes me as the best place to be recruiting new members". Jusis said with a sigh while walking towards them.

"Jusis Albarea?!" Patrick almost yelled in surprise.

"I wasn't aware the third son of the Hyarms family counted playing factions among his hobbies". The noble from Class VII continued. "If you wished for company in the salon, should you not have come to me first?"

"You?" The Class I member asked as if he was mocking him. "You've been invited countless times, you simply choose not to come! Despite there being no shortage of second years practically begging for your company".

"Much like my classmate here, I have no interest".

"…hmph, suit yourself, then". Patrick said before turning back to Rean. "Schwarzer, make sure you think long and hard about this; if you care about your future, you need to start thinking about the connections you're making… and the sides you're taking".

"I appreciate your concern and I assure you I will choose the side I feel is the best for me". The lower noble said still maintaining his fake smile.

Giving one last glare at the black haired teen Patrick walked away, making Elliot release the breath he was holding.

"He's certainly not shy". Gaius said while Rean dropped his fake smile.

"That's… a polite way to describe him". The swordsman said stopping his fake expression. "Thanks for stepping in, Jusis".

"Hmph, I wasn't trying to help you".

'Okay~ I'm suddenly getting tsundere vibes from him'. Rean decided to keep that thought to himself.

"Besides, it seems you were handling him well on your own".

"…let's say I'm used to it". The 'fake' noble said closing his eyes with a neutral expression. "Still, it was easier to make him go away after you appeared".

"As I said I wasn't trying to help you…"

'I sense a 'but' coming'. The other three thought.

"But I did cause you some trouble during last month's field study, so…" Jusis trailed off for a second. "…no; that's all" And just like that he left.

"Last month's field study?" Elliot repeated a bit confused.

"I think he means the run-in we had with the provincial army". Rean guessed.

"Ah, so he feels partially responsible for his family's actions, then". Gaius added. "He must have been looking for a way to apologize to you two".

"Huh… I guess he has a nice side after all". The red haired teen said happily.

During the last period, homeroom, Sara reminded everyone that tomorrow would be a free day and that the Wednesday they'll have the second practical exam and she'll be announcing the details for the next field study after that. She also said that the midterms are scheduled for the middle of next month; the reactions were between worried (Elliot), annoyed (Fie), eager (Machias) and simply acknowledged (pretty much everyone else); after that classes were over.

Rean stayed in his seat for a while after classes ended and after making plans to eat at Kirsche with Elliot and Gaius who both went to their clubs.

After that Alisa approached him, apparently wanting to say something but when he asked…

"It's nothing! I'll see you later!" She left, apparently annoyed at him.

"…what…?" He trailed off in confusion.

"Hmm… did you do something else to upset her?" Laura asked also approaching his seat.

"Not that I'm aware of". The swordsman answered honestly. "You think I did something without realizing it?"

"I was speaking in jest, I assure you". The blue haired girl said with a chuckle. "Are you planning on going into the old schoolhouse again tomorrow?"

"Yeah, the principal did ask me to keep an eye on it, so I thought I'd make time for a quick look inside".

"All right, please let me know when you're planning to begin the expedition, if you would; I have club activities tomorrow but as far as I'm concerned, the old schoolhouse takes priority".

"Thanks, I'll let you know".

"Excellent, I'll see you tomorrow then".

"See ya later".

After that she also left the classroom, leaving only he and for some reason Machias.

'It can't hurt to make some small talk'. Rean thought before addressing him. "You're in the Chess Club, aren't you Machias? You going or are you planning on studying in the library?" The other teen stood up.

"Since when was it any of your business what I choose to do after class?"

'…ok, maybe it CAN hurt to make some small talk'. The fuchsia eyed teen was only able to think this for the moment, been caught completely off guard by his green haired classmate. "…I was just wondering, you don't have to tell me if you don't want to". His only answer was a silent glare. "Have I… done something to upset you?"

"Not specially; it's actually my fault for thinking you were different".

"…I'm gonna need some context here". Rean said in confusion.

"I thought that maybe you weren't the type to just side with nobles… but I was wrong".

"…Still needing some context here".

"Yesterday, you interfered when I was talking with Jusis Albarea". Machias said adjusting his glasses.

"Yes, I was trying to stop you guys from punching each other's lights out". The Eight Leaves practitioner answered.

"Don't patronize me". That got Rean raise an eyebrow in both confusion and curiosity. "I saw how he helped you today, I wasn't aware you were in such good terms".

"We're not really, no more than you and me at least".

"Again, don't patronize me".

"I'm no-"

"Save your breath". The shot gun user interrupted. "You both should just go that salon in the third floor, I'm sure you'd be a lot more comfortable".

'…yeah, there is a limit to the bullshit I'm putting up with'. With that thought Rean also got up and moved between Machias and the door.

"What are you doing?" He asked with a glare.

"We're having a talk".

"I have nothing to say to yo-"

"Yeah well, I have something to say to you" This time it was Machias' turn to be surprised. "What is your problem with nobles?"

"Don't act like you ca-"

"I'll give you those words back, don't patronize me". Rean again interrupted. "Look you don't hate me, I'm pretty good at telling when someone does and you simply have something against nobles and take it out on the one that is nearest to you, so come on tell me". His only answer was a glare and the sound of Machias clenching his fists. "I'm not moving away until you do".

"Move".

"No".

"Move".

"No".

"I said move!" With that yell he punched Rean in the face making him take a step back but he held himself on his feet.

"And I said no". The swordsman said calmly, not even acknowledging the pain on his left cheek.

"A-am I intruding?" A third voice asked from the door, both teens turned there and saw Emma peaking.

"No, not at all". The vice-president answered regaining his calm and walking out of the classroom; Rean allowing it since he didn't want to drag Emma in their argument.

"A-are you okay?" She asked the swordsman.

"Yeah, it's nothing". He answered with a sigh. "Did you need something?"

"I accidentally left one of my textbooks in my desk, so I came back to fetch it… but never mind that we should get you some ice an-".

"Really Emma, it's nothing, I appreciate your concern though". She still seemed unconvinced but in the end she sighed and left it at that before going for her book. "What subject is it?"

"Take a look". He took the book and read 'Intermediate Mathematics for Dummies'

"I… didn't expect this; isn't this part of the Sunday School curriculum?" Rean asked in surprise. "Seems a bit basic for you".

"Oh, it's not for me; I promised to help Fie with her math studies".

'Now it makes sense'.

"I found this at the bookshop in town and thought it might be of some use to her".

"I see". The swordsman said with a nod. "While you're helping her, do you think you could tell her to not sleep outside anymore?"

"Oh, you know about that?"

"I've seen her a few times, I still don't understand how someone can sleep that much".

"I'll see what I can do but I'm not sure she'll listen to me on that regard". Emma answered with an apologetic look before she seemed to remember something. "Which reminds me, I really should be going; I'm sure she's waiting for me by now… are you sure you're okay?"

"Yeah, compared to the broken ribs, this is nothing" Rean once again assured her, smiling.

"Well, see you later".

"Yeah, see ya later". With that Emma went towards the door but stopped just before leaving.

"And don't worry".

"Hmm?"

"I'm sure Machias doesn't hate you or anything; you just need to find a way of getting through to him".

"Yeah, my first idea didn't have the best results". He said with a carefree chuckle; Emma did a polite bow before this time leaving the classroom.

'Well, time to get going; maybe I'll wander around for a bit before returning to the dorm… I think I'll take a quick look at the old schoolhouse first'. With that thought he went towards said building.

"…I try to understand but I just can't". Rean said to himself while pinching the bridge of his nose looking at a certain silver-haired girl sleeping in one of the benches outside the local dungeon. "Is there anywhere you can't sleep? And wasn't Emma meeting you?" He then thought about waking her up but she ended up doing that on her own, yawning and stretching her arms.

"Oh, Rean". She said, apparently just now noticing him.

"Hey, I was just passing by here when I saw you sleeping on that bench". He explained not wanting any misunderstandings, although she didn't seem to be the type to be hung up on those unlike Alisa. "Weren't you supposed to meet with Emma? Something about she helping you with math".

"…I suppose so" Fie answered after a second. "What happened?"

"Hmm, with what?"

"You have a bruise". She pointed to his cheek.

"Oh, I tried to have a talk with Machias… it didn't go well".

"And he hit you?" Her answer was a nod. "Why?"

"I think I pressed the wrong button, whatever his reason for hating nobles is it's not something s-"

"Not that". She interrupted shaking her head. "Why did you let him hit you?"

"…why do you think I let him hit me?" Rean asked back.

"Did you not expect him to hit you?"

"I… thought he might". The swordsman admitted.

"You have good reflexes; I find it hard to believe that he hit you if you were expecting it, unless you let him".

"…heh, thanks for the compliment". The black haired teen said with a chuckle. "I thought if I let him hit me he might calm down enough for us to talk".

"Did it work?"

"I don't know, Emma appeared and I didn't want to drag her into it".

"Hmm". Fie closed her eyes for a second and when she opened them. "Okay, later".

"Ah, one more thing". The black haired teen said before she could move. "Could you please stop falling asleep in places like this? If you need to sleep I'm sure you could ask Instructor Beatrix if you can use one of the beds in the infirmary".

"I do, sometimes". The silver haired girl answered. "Beatrix gives me sweets if she's there".

"She seems like a kind person, doesn't she?" Rean commented. "But that's beside the point-"

"Never mind that". Fie interrupted. "Can you sense it?"

"Huh? Sense what?"

"This building; it's changed again, a lot". The moment Rean looked at the old schoolhouse. "Later". Fie walked, almost ran, away.

"…was it a trick or…?" He once again stared at the Old Schoolhouse. '…let's check'. He took the key from his pocket and entered the building.

'The building changing was already weird but this… what the hell even is this?' Rean couldn't help but stare at the strange… thing that appeared; it was some sort of device with a panel that had the numbers 'I' and 'II' in it. '…alright, my curiosity is satiated for the moment I'll come back tomorrow to keep the investigation'. He opted to do the smart thing and leave.

The Eight Leaves practitioner then went to the Student Council room to check if Towa needed help; she also asked about his bruise and he told her the story, also asking her to let him handle this problem, he then offered to help but she insisted they had it covered and he should rest for the tasks she'll give him tomorrow; so off he went to the dormitory.

"Hey there, first year". But was interrupted at the school gate.

"Oh, it's you… the con artist".

"Hehe, that doesn't sound bad actually". The white haired second year said, more to himself than Rean.

"I'm not going to play along with your scams this time, so you might as well be on your way". Rean said, not annoyed just stating a fact.

"I wasn't trying to hustle you before, honest!" He said with a chuckle while scratching his neck. "Did you figure out how I did it, though?"

"…"

"If you really want your 50 mira back, I'll be happy to hand it over but wouldn't you rather feel like you earned it? Come on, what do you say?"

"I say that I already 'earned' those 50 mira". Rean answered earning a nervous chuckle from the second year. "But give me a sec". He added before moving a hand to his chin in thought. 'Let's see, how could he do it? The coin was tossed I am sure of it, I saw it go up… maybe something he has on him'. Rean looked over the second year in front of him but didn't see anything he could have used to make the coin disappear. '…so that leaves'. "You threw the coin in the air but let it fall to the bag you had at your feet that day instead of catching it, right?" Hearing his answer the second year widened his eyes a bit.

"Heh, not bad; I wasn't expecting you to figure it out so quickly".

"Thanks, I guess".

"And a promise is a promise, so here's your 50 mira ba-" He was checking his pockets before saying that but stopped midway. "Er, sorry; I've only got 10 mira on me".

"…it's fine, just forget it". Rean answered sighing. "It's only 50 mira, you can keep it".

"Oh really? That's mighty genero-".

"HEY! Stop trying to leech money off of innocent first years, you louse!" A third voice yelled.

"Oh, crap; it's the she-devil". The second year said earning a confused look from Rean.

The voice belonged to a girl wearing a leather outfit with short purple hair and moving some sort two wheeled orbal vehicle.

'A… bicycle? No, it looks like it's powered by orbal energy' Rean thought looking at the vehicle before moving his eyes to the girl. 'Wait, I've seen her somewhere before'.

"You're Rean, I take it?" The 'she-devil' said. "I've been hearing all about you form Towa and George; sounds like you pulled off some pretty amazing stuff on your field study last month".

"I… wouldn't use those words; there was a lot of luck involved in it". Rean said remembering the incident from the field study. "I'm surprised you know my name, actually… but I guess I should still introduce myself; I'm Rean Schwarzer, nice to meet you".

"Same". Leather clad girl answered before also introducing herself. "I'm Angelica. Angelica Rogner; glad I could finally make your acquaintance". She winked at the last part.

"Rogner? As in… Marquis Rogner? Head of one of the Great Houses?!" The fuchsia eyed teen asked in surprise; granted he wasn't the example of a noble but the ones he knew, however small that number might be, 'looked the part' sort of speak.

"Same reaction every time, I swear!" Angelica said laughing at the younger teen's bewilderment. "Yeah, I'm his unworthy daughter but he doesn't really want to have anything to do with me since I go around dressed like this".

"I think it's less how you dress and more how you behave". The other second year there commented. "Where are you going on that bike at this hour, anyway?"

"Oh, George finally finished tuning the orbal engine so I figured I'd give it a run to the capital and back and see how it holds up".

"Sure must be nice not to have a care in the world". The con artist said with a sigh.

"Look who's talking". Angelica countered with a chuckle, she then got in the bike's seat and turned it on.

"Wow". Getting a surprised reaction from Rean.

"Well, catch you later". She said before addressing the first year only. "I'm thinking of putting in a request for you sometime; if I do, I'd sure appreciate a swift response!" And so she drove off, Rean looking at the vehicle speed away.

"Heh, lost for words?" The bandanaed second year said with a knowing smile. "That's a little something George put together a while back; he calls it an 'orbal bike'. Pretty cool, huh?"

"Yeah… any chance I could ride it sometime? Something tells me you can't buy those in any shops".

"That 'something' is right; the Roer Institute of Technology started putting it together as part of a test, then George finished it off". He started to explain. "Gelica put up the money for the parts herself; oh, but Towa and I helped out, too!"

"Sounds like it must have been a pretty challenging project". Rean said, imagining how much effort it must have been. "So you're in good terms with Towa and George, then? Angelica said she'd heard all about me from them; maybe you had a little something to do with that, too?"

"Well, we're all from different classes, but we've kind of stuck together for a while now… come to think of it, I never did introduce myself, did I?"

"First time we met you said 'let's not get ahead of ourselves' right before you asked me if I wanted to see that trick of yours".

"Hehe yeah good times, anyway name's Crow Armbrust; second year, Class V. I'm sure I'll catch ya 'round again". And with those words he started to walk away from the campus. "Later!"

"So… Angelica's the daughter of Marquis Rogner, Towa's the Student Council president, George is head of the Engineering Club… it seems like every second year I meet is somebody important; I wonder what makes Crow important".

He ended up meeting with Elliot and Gaius at Kirsche like they planned, they also asked him about his bruise and he once again explained everything while asking that they don't make a big deal out of it.

The three then went back to the dormitory and hanged out until it was bed time.

And the next day…

'Let's see, one from the Principal about the old schoolhouse as I expected, someone needs someone to be a substitute tutor and a book delivery'. Rean put the list in one of his pockets and prepared to leave.

Chapter Text

After Rean left the dorm he first went to the bookstore, one of his requests came from there and it was close anyway.

To his surprise, Emma was there.

"Oh, hello, Rean; how are you?"

"Hi Emma; I'm fine thanks, Keynes asked something for the Student Council so here I am". The swordsman answered. "How about you?"

"I'm searching for some study materials; I'm hoping to find some that'll help Fie with our classwork".

"Had any luck yet?"

"Not quite; I've been struggling to find something that would make it easy for her to understand". Emma answered with a small frown before it turned into a smile. "But on my honor as class president, I'm going to keep looking until I find something".

"How about I help you out, then?"

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah, I did kind of nominate you for the job after all". The swordsman assured her.

"Hehe, thank you". The Class VII president said smiling. "Okay… to get started, would you mind searching over there?"

"Got it". And so began their epic quest for finding a book that would help the youngest member of their class, filled with all the trials and tribulations… that looking around in a bookstore come with.

"Hmm… unsurprisingly, most of the books here are targeted at people with a high level of education". The bespectacled girl said after they had pretty much done a sweep of the whole place. "Fie isn't quite there, though, so I need something a bit simpler for her…"

"Hmm…" Rean kept looking around at the last shelf in the place that they didn't look at yet. "It's really considerate of you to use so much of your free time to help her". He praised. "But isn't this cutting into your own studies?"

"It's not a big deal, really". Emma assured him with a laugh. "I got into the academy on a scholarship, so I want to return the favor by doing all I can to help other students". She answered as she also inspected the shelf. "Class VII is an especially small class, too, so helping each other just seems like the natural thing to do".

"And that right there is why you're our class president". The black haired teen said with a chuckle.

"Y-you don't need to flatter me". Emma stuttered while blushing.

"It's not flattery, it's honesty". Rean said back laughing. "For what it's worth, Fie's being paying a lot more attention in class since you two started studying together, too".

"I've noticed that, too, it's nice to see; hopefully I can teach her how to get excited about learning new things before our midterms start". The purple haired girl admitted. "How did you notice, though?"

"Hmm?"

"I was paying attention to her during classes to see if she was paying attention, were you perhaps paying attention to Fie?"

"Not really". He answered with a shrug. "But my sit is behind hers and one to the right; it was easy to see her falling asleep in the middle of the lesson".

"Hehe, that's true".

"Oh, what about that book over there?" He suddenly changed the topic of discussion. "That might work!"

"This one?"

Both of them reached for the book making their hands brush.

"Yeah, that one". Rean confirmed taking the book after Emma pulled her hand away. "Here you go".

"T-thanks". Then both made their way to the counter. "Excuse me, I'd like to purchase this book".

"Sure thing, give it here for a sec please". Keynes, the owner, answered as he told them the price, Rean offered to pay but at Emma's insistence she ended up been the one to do it.

"Thanks for your help Rean".

"Don't mention it, let me know if it helps".

"I will, I'll see you later".

"See ya". With that Emma left the bookstore. "Well then, excuse me but you sent a request to the Student Council, didn't you?" He asked to the owner.

"I certainly did, and I'm guessing this means you're taking care of it". Keynes said, the swordsman confirming it with a nod. "Wonderful!"

"You said you needed help with delivering some books to the academy's instructors?"

"Correct; I usually handle it myself, so I'm sorry to put that work on you today".

'Then why did… Stop. That. Damn. Habit!' Rean thought to himself once again reminding himself of speaking when he has a question. "If you don't mind me asking, is there a reason you needed someone else to do this?"

"Shamefully enough, yes". Keynes said with embarrassment. "I lost the order sheet I received from the academy so I'm not sure who I should deliver each book to; that's when I decided it'd be best to ask one of you students instead".

"Why?"

"You're more familiar with your instructors than I am, so you might be able to deduce who ordered what".

"I see"

"I actually hire a part-timer who's a student at Thors, I was planning on asking her first but she's working somewhere else today, so the Student Council was my only recourse".

"I understand, so how many books do I have to deliver?"

"Five, here you go". Keynes took the five books and gave them to Rean piled up. "They make for a heavy load, so be careful carrying them".

"You weren't kidding about the weight". Rean said holding the books with both arms. "Did anyone order multiple books?"

"Don't worry; just one per person, so five deliveries, five people, five books".

"Seems simple enough, I should be able to figure out which instructor ordered each one; I'll get right on it".

"Thanks for the help". And with that he left the bookstore.

'Well, I guess I'll go to the campus, that's where most of the instructors should be'. He thought while walking and reading the books' titles.

After reaching the campus he asked a few students that were passing if they know where the instructors could be, they said that most of them were probably in the Instructor's room in the main building, except for Instructor Thomas who they saw in the library; he opted for going there first.

'Ah, there he is'. Rean said when he saw Instructor Thomas looking at the books near the door. "Excuse me, Instructor?"

"If it isn't Rean! How may I help you today?" Thomas said happily. "If you're here to talk history, I'm sure I can set aside a few hours of my day for an engaging little chat!"

"Sorry but I'm just here to ask whether you ordered this book from the bookstore recently". The black haired teen said showing him a book called 'Behind the War of the Lions'.

Instructor Thomas was obviously surprised but after explaining everything he left the book with him and left.

'I'm glad I actually have something to do to avoid those few hours of history talk'. He didn't have anything against Instructor Thomas, in fact he was probably one of the easiest Instructors to get along with, it's just that when it comes to history he can drag on for hours non-stop. 'All right, now to the Instructors' room'. With one book worth of weight less he made his way to the main building.

"Excuse me, vice principal". Rean said once he entered the Instructor's room, right now, aside from the vice principal Heinrich, Instructor Neithardt was there.

"You're that Rean Schwarzer from Valestein's class, what brings you to me?" The vice principal asked.

"Do you know this book, by any chance?" Rean asked showing him 'Analyzing Macroeconomics', the second he did his neutral expression turned to a more hostile one.

"As it just so happens, that's the very book I ordered from the bookstore". He began with a sharp glare. "But why do YOU have it?"

"Well, I-"

"Wait; don't tell me Valestein's corrupted you into a petty thief! You're both stealing academy deliveries, aren't you?!"

"…I'm sorry, was that a joke?"

"No it wasn't young man and let me tell you that stealing is…"

'How in the hell did he made that leap in logic?' Rean thought zoning him out. 'Even if I was stealing something, which I'm not, does he think I would be stupid enough to come here and tell him? I'm not sure if I should be offended'.

"…and that's why-"

"Excuse me, vice principal". Rean interrupted and quickly explained the situation before he could start talking again.

"I see… allow me to apologize for doubting you so readily… and so vehemently". He said, his expression more calm now.

"It's fine". 'It really isn't but no point in riling him up'.

"A question though; your father is a baron, is he not?"

"That's right".

"Then why, pray tell, would someone of such worthy blood perform such menial tasks?"

"You say it as if this was beneath me or something". Rean answered a bit confused, Heinrich coughed into his hand before continuing.

"I do not mean to deny the work ethic or the importance of the Student Council but nobles have their roles and commoners have theirs; I would just like for you to keep that in mind".

Rean could have just left right there… but he couldn't.

"I don't see what the difference between been a noble and a commoner is to be honest, other than the fact that one was born into a family with more privileges". That caught the vice principal by surprise. "I might be wrong but aside from that, what exactly is the difference between a noble and a commoner?"

"Hmph, you are still too young to understand I see; but worry not one day you will, you may take your leave".

'He must be gunning for the title of Thors' most punchable faculty member'. The Eight Leaves practitioner thought before leaving.

After asking around a bit more he learned that Instructor Mary was in the music room, he greeted Elliot too since he was there and after the Instructor thanked him for delivering her book, 'Modern Art: The Complete Works', he left.

It took a while but he found Instructor Makarov in the rooftop, as it turns out he was there, in his own words, 'evading all of his teacherly responsibilities'; he also suggested that Rean should try and do that, not avoiding but doing only enough instead of working too hard. In the end he just left after delivering the book.

His last delivery took him all the way back to the Class VII dorm; after going back to the Instructor's room and asking Instructor Neithardt if he knew where Sara was, he answered that she was most likely in her room sleeping the day away.

And yes, there she was, only drinking instead of sleeping.

"Well, if it isn't the Rean-Bean-Machine, dutifully roaming the campus as always!" Sara said when Rean entered her room.

"…I feel like I'm wasting my breath pointing this out but you DO know it's the middle of the day, right?" The black haired teen asked.

"You got a problem with me spending my afternoon drinking?" The older woman asked annoyed. "It's my room and my beer; I'm not seeing the problem here!"

'…well, if she isn't bothering anyone then I guess it's her business'. Rean admitted in his mind. 'But-'.

"Hey, hey, don't just stand there like you've got nothing to do!" Sara said out of nowhere interrupting his thoughts. "You're a student, so come sit here and keep me company".

"I don't see how that has any relation to me being a student". Rean thought out loud, his Instructor obviously ignored his comment. "Oh well, hold on, I'll get myself something to drink".

"Oh, be a dear and get me something to snack on while you're out, would you?"

"Fine, fine".

He made a trip to the kitchen and back to her room.

"Looks like you've been working pretty hard for the Student Council". Sara said while eating the bag of sweets Rean brought. "That's what I like to see! Building up experience and making memories is exactly what youth's all about!"

"I don't want to hear it. Not from the person that pushed me into it in the first place, anyway…" Rean trailed off taking a sip of his water. "…especially since I've had a lot on my mind lately regardless".

"So this is about Machias, huh?" That comment hot a reaction from the teen.

"Was it that obvious?"

"Well, you don't exactly have a poker face; not to mention that bruise you had the other day and before you ask, Towa told me". Sara answered. "Have you figured out a way to make up with him yet?"

"…I wish". The swordsman said with a sigh. "My first plan didn't exactly go well an-"

"Ah, I remember when I had such simple, youthful worries".

'If you're not gonna wait for an answer then why ask at all?'

"Well, the way I see it, your best bet would be just focusing on helping the Student Council out for today". Sara continued after taking a swig of her beer. "Helping other people out with their worries helps develop you as a person and figure out how to take care of your own".

"Really?"

"Of course". She said as if it was obvious. "You need to take each and every request seriously, and not just see them as boxes on a checklist; listening carefully to what a client says and figuring out what they really want form that is a key part of the job". For once, she sounded completely serious. "After all, people tend not to say what's really on their mind; you have to listen for it"

Once she finished talking Rean started to slowly and carefully move towards the door.

"Hey, what's with that look?" Sara asked noticing the slightly afraid expression on Rean.

"I'm just surprised that you gave such a helpful, on point reply… are you sure you didn't have one too many to drink?"

"I know my limits!… huh, deja vu".

"Can I ask what you did before you became an instructor?" Rean asked curiously.

"Well…" The older woman trailed off as if looking for the right words before giggling. "Let's just put it this way: I've got a lot of experience; more than enough to give you youngins helpful advice whenever you need it".

"So you dodge the question after all". Rean said chuckling to himself. "Well, it isn't surprising".

"Either way, I'm your homeroom teacher; I'll always help you out if you really need me". She added. "For now though, just focus on what you've gotta do".

"I suppose you're right, which reminds me". He showed her the reason why he was there in the first place and gave her 'The Empire's Hottest Spots'. "By the way, have you been investigating the old schoolhouse?"

"Yeah from time to time I take a peek, why do you ask?"

"Did you notice the stairs going missing?" That question seemed to sober her up.

"…what do you mean?" Rean then explained what he saw yesterday. "I haven't seen anything like that, last time I went there was last week".

"So that appeared in the period of a week… another mystery involving that place". The black haired teen then got up. "I'll tell you if we find out anything after we go today". And with that he left her to her beer.

'Alright then, a quick snack and I'll get back to it'. He went to Kirsche before telling Keynes that the deliveries were taken care of.

To his surprise at one of the furthest tables there was a familiar second year.

"Yo, so we meet again". Crow said when Rean got closer to the table.

"Enjoying a little tea in peace and quiet today, Crow?"

"Nah, I'm just waiting around for an appointment". He answered with a shrug. "But man, they're sure taking their sweet time. Way to keep a guy hangin'!"

"I get the feeling you've done the same thing at least a couple times". Rean said back with a chuckle.

"Oh ho, feelin' cheeky today, are we?" The second year said with a half eyed look. "Can't really deny it, though". He added with a grin.

"Well, should I get out of your hair before your appointment gets here?"

"You're free to join me if you want".

'…Hmm, well it couldn't hurt' "I'll take you up on that, just give me a sec I'll go grab something to eat, you want anything?"

"On you?"

"Hell no".

"Haha, thought so; I'm fine thanks".

After he got a sandwich from Fred he went back to Crow's table and they chatted for a bit.

"So who are you waiting for anyway?" Rean asked.

"Wel-"

"Yo, kept you waiting, huh?" A kid said from the door in the direction of Crow.

"Heh, speak of the devil"

"Sorry we're late!" Another kid added.

"We ended up getting a bit distracted". The first one said a bit embarrassed.

"Hah, I wasn't expecting this".

"I'll let you off the hook this time". Crow said. "Better not let it happen again, though". Even if he said that, he didn't seem to mean it.

"I know, I know". The first kid answered with a chuckle. "But what're we messin' around for? Let's get started already!" He stopped for a moment when he noticed Rean.

"Oh, I'm Rean, nice to meet you". The black haired teen introduced himself.

"He's my junior at Thors". Crow added. "Come on, introduce yourselves, he doesn't bite".

"I'm Kay".

"And I'm Rudy, nice to meet you too".

"But come on, let's start!" Kay said taking a seat in front of Crow and both taking out a deck of cards.

"Is that Blade?" Rean asked as they prepared the cards.

"Oh, do you play?" The white haired teen asked. "I've been telling everyone who'll listen about it; I even handed over a deck over to old Micht to spread the love".

"…wait, did you say Micht?" Rean asked earning a nod from his senior. "I think I got that one".

"Really?"

"Yeah, I was making a delivery for George and Micht sort of gave it to me".

After that the game began between Crow and Kay.

"Haha, this is nice to see; I didn't think you had it in you to look out for anyone else". Rean commented seeing them play. "Maybe you're not so bad after all".

"Heh, you flatter me". Crow said making his next move. "Wanna join in? Bets start at 3"

'…what?'

"Please tell me you're kidding". Crow's smile told him he was completely serious. "I take back what I said; and are you seriously making children gamble?!"

"That depends on your definition of 'gamble'". The second year answered taking out something from his pocket. "We're just playing for candy!" He said with a childish like glee.

'I don't think that makes it okay'. The first year thought. "Isn't it kinda sad that you're betting against kids, aren't you technically an adult now?"

"Whoa there, slow down now!" Crow said with an uncharacteristically serious expression. "Age is all relative in a clash of spirits like this!"

"…I admit it sounds nice when you put it that way". The first year admitted as Crow played his next card.

"Take this! Bolt!"

'Hmm, that wouldn't have been my first move'. Rean thought looking over Crow's cards, then he heard Kay chuckle.

"Right into my trap; eat this! Mirror!" That got Crow's expression to turn from confident to baffled.

"Aww man, are you serious?"

"You did it, Kay!" Rudy celebrated.

"Piece of cake!" Kay said with a smug grin. "Thanks, Crow! I don't even know what we're gonna do with all these sweets".

"D-Dang it! That's the last one you're getting outta me!" The oldest person in the table declared.

They played a few more rounds but.

'Looks like Crow's the only one losing anything here'. Rean thought after the fourth hand of Blade they played. 'I could play a few rounds, no betting though'.

"Excuse me, you said your name was Rudy, right?" He asked the other kid who nodded. "Want to play a hand with me? I'm not a betting man, though, so we're only playing for fun".

"Sure that's fine". And so they also played a few hands.

"It's been fun but I have to leave now". Rean said getting up from the table.

"Hey Rean, before you go". Crow called out to him. "Can you lend me some sweets? I'll give you back twice as many".

"With your current losing streak, yeah not happening". He answered before grinning. "Leave him dry you two; see ya later". He payed Fred before leaving. 'Alright then, now to Keynes and from there for the thing about been a substitute tutor'.

He made his way back to the bookstore where he told Keynes that the deliveries were taken care of before making his way to the commoners' dorm.

He met Klein, the second year who asked for the substitute tutor.

After he explained that his mother collapsed while she was working and that he will be going home to check on her and make sure everything's okay but he tutors one of the kids in Trista and wanted to get someone that could cover for him.

Rean was a bit nervous at first but ended up accepting and covering for him; the kid he was going to be tutoring lived near the river and the mother already knows what happened so he only needed to introduce himself and tell her that he will be the one covering for Klein.

After a while he finished the tutoring and at the insistence of both mother and son he accepted the payment they offered for his work.

'Let's see, I think I don't have anything else to do but go to the old schoolhouse'. Rean thought walking towards the campus. 'Now that I remember Gaius said that he will be trying out something with his painting, I think I'll go and see how he is doing'.

A few minutes later he was inside the Art room and walked towards Gaius.

"Oh, hello, Rean". The lancer greeted when he saw him.

"Sorry, did I interrupt you?"

"Nah, it's all right; Clara instructed me to do some dessins so I've been spending the day working on those". Gaius said. "I felt a bit tired after finishing a couple of them, though, so I'm just taking a break for now".

"Sounds like you've been working hard, at least". The swordsman said smiling. "Would it be okay if I stayed a while and watched you draw, Gaius?"

"Fine by me; if you've got any advice, I'm all ears, too".

"Hehe, I can't promise anything but I'll tell you if something comes to mind".

After a few minutes Gaius started painting again.

"Wow, that's quite the elaborate drawing". Rean said in amazement after Gaius was drew most of his painting.

"Compliments like that make me feel like I'm improving but don't hold back if you have any criticisms to make".

"Got it… even though I think this looks pretty great already". Rean assured him. "You used to draw back home, right?"

"Yeah". The taller teen confirmed. "I taught myself by painting landscapes and… well, mostly landscapes but Clara, the head of the club, wasn't too thrilled to hear that".

"How so?"

"According to her, I draw purely by feel, without even the most basic artistic techniques". Gaius explained. "She told me to take what I see and make it my own so I've been doing rough sketches like this since last month; in fact, I just finished my hundredth sketch".

"A hundred in a month?" Rean asked just to make sure he heard it right, his answer was a nod. "That's… a lot; I don't know if I'd have the patience to sit down and do that many sketches; isn't it kind of a pain?"

"It's not that bad; it helps that Clara's words resonated with me".

"Oh?"

"That's what I'm doing with my time in the Empire, after all; I'm taking what I see and making it my own". Just then a question popped into Rean's head.

"Where are you from by the way? I don't think you ever told anyone".

"I suppose I never did mention that, did I?" Gaius said thinking back and stopping his brush. "I'm from the Nord Highlands, to the north of the Empire".

"Hold on!" Rean said in surprise. "That's where Emperor Dreichels raised his army!" Gaius nodded. "All this time we were learning about Nord in class and you were FROM there"

"Haha, well, you know". Gaius said with a shrug. "I wasn't keeping it a secret, it just never came up, I plan on telling the rest of the class eventually". With those words he went back to his painting. "By the way, how are things with Machias?"

"Same as before, I haven't ran into him today". The swordsman answered. "Although I don't think he'd talk to me if I did".

"Probably not, any ideas on how to make up with him?"

"Heh, you're the second person to ask me that today and no but for now I'll just focus on the Old Schoolhouse; I'll think of something later".

"Oh, are you going there now?"

"Yeah, just finished up everything else".

"I'll come with then". Gaius said putting away his tools.

"You sure? I thought you wanted to keep painting".

"Don't worry I'm sure, I'm curious about the place as well".

"Thanks, let's get going, we'll call the others on the way there".

"Thanks for coming guys". Rean said to the group once they got to the old schoolhouse.

"No problem, I said I'd help after all". Elliot answered.

"I was the one that asked you to inform the next time you're coming back here, there is no need to thank me". Laura said next.

"I don't mind". Alisa said last.

Aside from them, Rean and Gaius the others couldn't come; Emma and Fie were studying together, Jusis said no like last time and they didn't call Machias for obvious reasons.

"Fair warning before we go in; the place is changed a lot".

"It happened last time; I don't think that would surprise me". The musician said to the swordsman.

"Don't bet on it". Rean answered as he opened the door.

"Wh-what the hell is this?!" Elliot exclaimed looking at the strange platform in the middle of the room.

"Yeah, that was my reaction too". Rean commented.

"This really is completely different from the last time we were here". Alisa said looking around. "What's that pedestal-like structure over there?"

"I don't know, it wasn't here last month". Gaius answered her.

"I took a quick look in here yesterday and this was here". The swordsman told them.

"The staircase leading down into the ruins is completely gone, too" The red haired teen noticed.

"Instructor Sara said that this wasn't here last week, so the whole thing changed in that amount of time". Rean told them.

"Then there is no way someone could have snuck in and made this; it's too large-scale for that amount of time". Gaius thought out loud. "Even if we were to assume this was started the last time we were here, which we know wasn't, I don't think anyone could build this in that amount of time; the most likely explanation seems to be that the ruins have changed their layout on their own… again".

"Y-you can't be serious…" Alisa trailed off, not believing what she was seeing.

"This truly is a fascinating place". Laura commented both confused and intrigued.

"Let's take a closer look at that pedestal". The fuchsia eyed teen suggested. "I didn't touch anything yesterday just in case".

"Well… it's definitely a device of some sort". Alisa said looking at the panel. "If I were to guess, I'd say it's something similar to an elevator you'd find in a mine shaft; that's what it looks like, anyway".

"An elevator, huh? So we can use it to go deeper underground?" Rean asked.

"Hmm… it's worth a shot; let's see… I think we can, the numbers are probably the floor number, but anything lower than 'II' is locked out".

"I guess we could assume that the floor we explored last month was the number 'I' then". Gaius commented. "I didn't realize these ruins went farther than that"

"My head is starting to hurt…" Elliot trailed off with a heavy sigh.

"If the rest of the floors are locked, that seems to suggest someone is trying to stop us-or anyone—from getting to them". The Eight Leaves practitioner offered. "But who? And why?"

"I have no idea but the proof is right here; all of the other floors are off limits". The archer answered. "There's no model number or date anywhere, either which suggests this elevator was built at the same time as the building itself, back in the Middle Ages".

"Hmm, you're surprisingly well informed on technology, Alisa". Laura said a bit surprised. "It's not often that girls develop such an interest in machinery".

"I-I don't know that much!" She quickly defended while flustered. "It's all just low-level stuff; plenty of other people could tell you the same thing, I'm sure!" She took a few seconds to get her breath back before asking. "So, what are we going to do? Do you want to try using the elevator to go down to the second floor?"

"Yeah, I think we should". Rean answered. "Though we have no idea what we're going to find down there, so we're going to need to be very careful".

And so to the second floor they went.

Like last month there was a door that seemed to separate the elevator room from the rest of the floor, likely to keep the monsters away.

The second floor was definitely different, not so much in how it looked but in the monsters that were there and the layout; there were walls blocking the way further in and they had to look around for a switch that would move them before they could keep going.

Luckily having five people there eased the workload quite a bit.

They adopted a 2-1-2 formation with Laura and Gaius at the front acting as the vanguards, Rean in the middle in case any of the monsters managed to pass them and Elliot and Alisa at the back using either offensive arts or healing them; it took them a while but eventually they reached the end of the floor.

"Hmm, there appears to be another door here". Laura mentioned looking at the other end of the room.

"If it's like last month then there is a good chance there is a stronger monster behind it". Gaius said.

"True, make sure to be careful". Rean agreed as the group approached the door.

On the other side was a room similar, if not identical, to the one Rean, Elliot and Gaius reached on their first willing trip to the old schoolhouse.

"There is noth-"

"Wait for it". Rean interrupted Alisa as the same purple light showed itself, this time instead of one monster though, there were three.

They all looked the same, a statue with the torso and head of an armored person but that's where any semblance with a human stopped; there were no arms or feet they just floated around and from their backs something akin to wings spread, this wings having several pink gems incrusted on them and a bright green one in the middle of its forehead.

The three of them stared at the group before the green gems started to glow and.

"Spread out!" The second Rean yelled this the statues shot a laser to where the group was standing.

They managed to avoid it by moving behind the pillars in the room and using them as cover; Rean, Alisa and Elliot moving behind one to the left while Gaius and Laura moved to the right.

However the statues didn't stop, they kept shooting at their covers slowly chipping away the pillars.

"You think they can break them?" Alisa asked.

"I think we don't want to wait and find out the hard way". Was Rean's answer as he tried to peek from the corner of the pillar, only to move away when one of the lasers nearly hit him. "Laura, Gaius, you two okay?"

"We're fine". Gaius said back, loudly, so they could hear each other.

"But we can't leave our position due to their attacks". Laura added.

"Same as we". Alisa said.

"Any ideas?" Elliot asked when all of a sudden the lasers stopped. "What the-"

The moment of peace was interrupted when the statues let out a shriek that seemed to drill the group's ears, it didn't last long and when it finished they started to shoot lasers again but if they did that thing enough times there could be problems.

"We can't let them do that again". The archer said peeking from her cover to shoot an arrow to the statues, it hit its mark but the statue didn't seem fazed by it.

"Do you think they understand what we're saying?" Rean asked out of nowhere but only loud enough for the two who are with him to hear.

"What do you mean?" Elliot wondered.

"I mean, if we plan something and tell Laura and Gaius, will the statues understand?"

"…I don't think we can risk that". The musician answered.

"True… alright, here's what we're gonna do, the next time the lasers stop we go all out against them; Alisa, go for the one that is nearest to us, Elliot prepare an art and shoot it to the one in the middle distance between us and Laura and Gaius". They both nodded when Alisa asked.

"What about you?"

"Me, Laura and Gaius will attack the one furthest from here".

"But they won't know who to hit".

"That's why we have these, isn't it?" He said with a grin and showing his ARCUS. "Get ready to go on my mark". The swordsman then formed a link with Gaius who also made one with Laura so they could understand the other's intention.

Afterwards it was the waiting game and after a minute or so the lasers stopped.

Without uttering a single word the group moved according to Rean's instructions, Elliot an Alisa did as he told them while Laura and Gaius simply moved based on what their combat link was telling them.

The two swordsmen prepared their best attack and struck the objective statue after Gaius had accumulated wind around his spear and use it to hit two of the statues in line.

The combination of Rean's sword covered in flames and the Blade Dance from Laura destroying one of the statues, while the long range attackers had managed to distract the other two enemies long enough for everyone to take cover before they finally shrieked again.

Rean was forced to change position and was now behind the same pillar as Gaius and Laura.

They did the same thing at the second chance, the only difference been that Elliot and Alisa got the attention of both statues so the front liners could rush without much trouble and that Rean and Laura couldn't use their finishing moves again, the fact that those techniques were so strong meant that an equal amount of effort was required to use them and although they could force it if necessary, they weren't so desperate that they needed to do that.

A second statue wasn't defeated but they did cause some obvious damage to it before going back to the pillars for cover.

"It seems those things can't move". Gaius said, loud enough for everyone to hear him.

"Seems that way, they haven't moved since the fight started". Elliot supported.

Once again the lasers stopped and everyone used the chance to rush them but instead of the statues preparing to shriek they were aiming one at each group.

'It's a trap'. They all thought at the same time moving to dodge the lasers as best as they could.

Gaius, Rean and Laura managed to come out of it with the attack just grazing them; Elliot and Alisa weren't so lucky, both receiving a direct hit in their torso and been knocked back towards the wall.

Maybe the statues could communicate between each other, they would never know, but the one that was originally aiming for the front liners changed targets immediately after the supporters were hit.

"Damn it". Rean cursed as Laura and Gaius tried to rush and stop the attack but no matter how fast they were, the distance was too much to cover to stop the attack. 'Focus Rean'. The black haired teen then sheathed his sword and concentrated, a blue glow appearing after a second and at that moment he did a quick draw, a blue arc-shaped energy was shot from his sword cutting and destroying the already damaged statue and forcing the remaining one to miss due to the sudden strike that made it lose balance.

"Quick, get the last one!" He yelled rushing the last statue, Elliot and Alisa shooting arts and arrows at it after they recovered.

Been the last one there was no need to find cover, they simply kept moving to avoid been hit while hitting it and eventually it was destroyed.

"That one… sure put up a fight". Alisa said panting for breath.

"Indeed; I suspect it considered this entire floor to be its domain". Laura agreed. "Still, it was nothing we couldn't handle; perhaps that means the floor is ours now".

"Hehe, that has a nice ring to it but I don't think there is anything we could do with it". Rean said as everyone put their weapons away.

"True". Elliot agreed with his friend with a chuckle.

"We should look around the room like we did last month". Gaius suggested. "Just because we didn't find anything on the first floor doesn't mean we won't find anything here".

"He's right, let's look around if anyone finds something tell the others".

After a few minutes of looking around they all reunited at the door to share their findings, not that there were any findings the room was just that, a room.

The first three explorers noticed that the situation was identical as last month but couldn't reach a conclusion on the why so they left and went back to the outside.

Laura and Alisa got a surprise when they were transported by those strange devices but nothing of note happened in the way outside and after leaving the Old Schoolhouse they made their way to the Principal's office, calling up Instructor Sara on the way.

They explained their findings but couldn't come up with the 'why' this is happening, after asking Principal Vandyck he said that this may tie to Dreichels the Lionheart who gave orders that were passed from Principal to Principal about how the Old Schoolhouse has to be preserved as it is until the 'Promised day' but he doesn't know what that means, he also speculated that this may also be tied to the Lance Maiden St. Lianne Sandlot but in the end they just didn't have enough info so they left it at that until Class VII could investigate again and see if they discover something.

The exploration party separated afterwards to go their own things until they should return to the dorm.

BLOOPER

After a few rounds Rean ended up playing against Crow.

"Ready to lose, first year?" Crow asked with a cocky grin.

"I'll take a win, thank you". Rean said back as the game started. "I activate this card!" Rean said a strange background appearing behind him

"Well, I activate this". Crow countered.

"And I activate this". Rean once again countered.

"I counter you with this". Crow played but before Rean could use his turn. "I also activate this".

"Wait a second, did you just played two cards in one turn?"

"Yeah, so?"

"That's against the rules isn't it?"

"Screw the rules, I have candy; now play your last pathetic card".

"My deck has no pathetic cards". Rean answered grinning confidently. "But it does have the unstoppable 'Force Card'"

"What?! But that card isn't supposed to be in this game yet". And with that Rean won the game. "One more time!"

"Bring it!"

Playing children card games intensifies.

Chapter Text

'Now that I think about it, Instructor Mary said that we should read a few chapters of a book in the library by the next class, I'll go and see if I can borrow it'. Rean remembered and made his way to the school library.

After asking the library clerk about where to find the book he needed, he went towards the shelf and near it saw Jusis sitting at one of the tables.

"Oh, it's you". The noble said when he noticed him.

"Hey there, Jusis". Rean greeted. "You're here pretty often, aren't you? Are you an avid reader?"

"Heh, I wouldn't put it like that, exactly". He answered. "There's not much else to do, so I just came to pass the time".

"Hehe, I heard something similar not too long ago". He said more to himself than his classmate. "Mind if I join you? I came to read that book Instructor Mary asked us to".

"Hmph, you needn't ask for my permission… you can do as you please".

"Just common courtesy to ask, if you don't mind then". He went to get the book and sat in front of Jusis. "What is that you're reading, anyway?"

"It's a book on the many legends that are told throughout the Empire". The blue eyed teen answered.

"There's certainly no shortage of those, is there?" Rean said before starting to count with his fingers. "I've heard stories about witches, spirits, and even vampires; there's actually a good book about those last ones I'm trying to keep up with called 'Red Moon Rose', you should give it a try if you're into those kind of stories"

"Hmph, these are merely a means to a fuller knowledge of the Empire". Jusis answered before adding. "Though I can't deny that they make for interesting reads".

"I see".

"Hey, look over there!" A girl's voice was heard from the stairs to the second floor of the library earning both teens' attention. "That guy's from one of the Four Great Houses, right? House Albarea?"

"So it is… he fits the noble archetype to a T, doesn't he?" Another girl answered her. "You don't suppose he's friend with that guy next to him, do you?"

'I think anything other than classmates is pushing it'. Rean thought to himself.

"I was guessing that he was… you gotta wonder what kind of people a big name like that would hang out with; oh, it's almost time! We've gotta get back to the dorms".

"Hey, wait up!" And with that both girls left.

"So THAT'S what it's like to be famous". Rean joked.

"…Hmph, this is a daily occurrence". Jusis answered, apparently used to the gossiping. "You're a noble yourself, the same would happen to you if you ever acted like one".

"Maybe but…" The black haired teen trailed off before pointing to himself. "Lesser noble from a remote area of the Empire". And then pointing to Jusis. "Big name noble known throughout the Empire". He chuckled before adding with a more serious expression. "It's a fair point though; maybe I could learn a lesson or two from you". Jusis stayed quiet for a few seconds before answering.

"One cannot escape their nobility as such, it should be worn with pride".

"What…?"

"Someone told me that when I was a child". He quickly said. "Don't listen to the likes of Regnitz". After that he got up saying he was gonna go for another book.

'Was he just trying to cheer me up? Elliot's right he does have a nice side; thanks Jusis'. They read together for a while longer before Rean left.

He ended up going back to the main building to see if Elliot or Gaius wanted to go back together, Elliot already left so now he was going to the Art room to see if Gaius was around.

"Whew… almost done". A girl with pink hair made in two braids that fell in front of her and wearing the commoners' uniform said.

'She's using oil paints, right? That's a pretty good painting'. Rean thought looking at the picture.

"Oh, hello". The girl said apparently just noticing.

"Ah, sorry; I hope I didn't break your concentration". The member of Class VII apologized.

"It's fine! Don't worry about it". She assured him. "You're Gaius' friend, right? Rean, wasn't it?" He nodded 'yes'. "If you were looking for him, you missed him by about a minute"

"I see, thanks for telling me". Rean said taking a quick look around the room. "Between you and that other girl over there, the Art Club must be pretty dedicated". That got the girl to laugh nervously.

"Clara's a whole different breed, but I don't do this very often; if I didn't get entered into a student art contest out of nowhere, I wouldn't be here finishing this right now".

"I had no idea there were contests like that". The swordsman admitted when he noticed something. "H-hold on! It doesn't sound like you have much time left; is it okay that I'm even talking to you?"

"It's important to take a break every so often, so this is actually just what I ne-". She suddenly seemed to remember something and her expression turned into a panicked one. "Oh, no…"

"What's wrong?"

"Umm… I ordered some flowers to use as a reference for my sketches but I completely forgot to pick them up today". She told him. "Now I'll need to pick them up on my way home".

"Hmm, I can go get them for you, if you'd like". He offered

"A-are you sure?"

"No problem, I'm free at the moment anyway and I've been helping out the Student Council so I'm used to this sort of stuff".

"I see… I'd be very grateful if you did, but…" She trailed off apparently debating with herself if she should ask for help.

"Seriously, it's no trouble at all". Rean assured with a smile. "All I have to do is mention your name and the flowers you ordered, and I should be fine, right?" He then realized something. "I never got your name, though".

"Oh right, I'm Linde".

"You already know but I'm Rean, nice to meet you". Now that the introductions were out of the way. "So there shouldn't be any trouble if I go there and get the flowers, right?"

"Y-yes; I've already paid for them, so giving my name should be enough". Linde confirmed. "When you get to the florist's, you'll want to let her know that you're picking up for Linde from the Art Club, the flowers are snow lilies and the name of the shop is 'Jane's'".

"Great! I walk past it all the time; I'll be back as soon as I can".

"S-sorry for the trouble… but thank you".

"Don't mention it".

Rean left the Art Room and went towards the shop a bit hurriedly but was stopped at the academy's entrance.

"Rean! Please, slow down!"

"Is that… Linde?" The swordsman wondered looking at the direction he was been called.

"Phew! I'm so glad I made it in time". Linde said getting her breath back from the race. "Umm… I'm sorry to bother you, but there's something I forgot to ask you earlier".

"It must've been important if you ran all the way here; what is it?"

"There's another flower I wanted to order". Linde began. "It's called a 'grand rose'; it's bright red, so you'll know it when you see it". She took some mira from her pocket. "I only need one, but this should cover it".

"A grand rose, got it". Rean said taking the money.

"Thank you very much, Rean; I'll be waiting in the art room!" And with that she turned on her heels and walked back to the main building.

"Looks like she's a bit more forgetful than I thought". The teen thought out loud. 'Anyway I should get what she asked for… I get the feeling I heard about the grand rose somewhere before, though'.

Before he got to the florist though he found a cat walking around, it didn't seem to be a stray if the bell in her neck and the ribbon on her tail were any indication, he kneeled and slowly began to reach for her to see if it was okay to pet her; as it turns out there was no problem.

"You've got really pretty fur". He said noticing how soft it was. "Such a pretty girl… er, cat; are you male or female? I've just been assuming female but-" He was interrupted when the cat suddenly hissed and scratched his hand. "Ow". It then did a gesture as if it was offended and walked away. "Guess I pushed my luck". He thought before looking at the wound. 'I should apply some ointment when I get back to the dorm, just in case; but for now, to the flower shop'.

"Welcome! How can I help you this evening?" The clerk said when Rean approached her.

"Someone asked me to pick up an order; Linde from the Art Club, she said she ordered snow lilies".

"Ahh, so you're picking it up for her? How nice of you". She answered smiling. "Just a moment please, I'll go get it". A few moments later she came back with the snow lilies. "Here you go".

"Thank you very much". Rean said taking the flowers. "Oh, would you happen to have any grand roses?"

"You're in luck; we do!" The attendant said. "Oh, to be young and passionate again".

"I'm sorry?"

"Heehee, nothing just talking to myself, please wait a moment while I get one ready for you". Once again she went to do her thing and came back with the flower. "Here you go".

"Again, thank you". He said paying her for the flower.

"Best of luck". She said giggling before going back to her flowers.

"O~kay?"

With the flowers ready he went back to the Art Room.

"Oh, Rean! You're already back from the florist's?" Linde asked when he entered.

"Yep, I hope these are the right flowers". The black haired teen answered giving her the snow lilies.

"That's perfect, thank you so much". The girl thanked him.

"And here's that other one you asked for". He said giving her the grand rose.

"Th-this is a grand rose!" Linde half yelled suddenly blushing. "Y-you can't just give a girl something like this out of nowhere!"

"Uh, wasn't that the one you asked for when you stopped me at the entrance?"

"I mean… this flower… basically… you want to…" She then fidgeted nervously.

"Sorry, I'm not following".

"Oh, just shut up and kiss me!" Another voice that sounded like Linde said from the entrance of the Art Room.

"Th-that wasn't me! I swear!" Linde quickly said. "But now I see what's going on! I know you're there, Vivi! Get out here!" She ordered.

"Awww, we were just getting to the good part, too!" That Linde like voice said and opening the door to the Art Room appeared… Linde.

"What the…?" Rean trailed off looking between the two Lindes.

"Umm… Rean? I've… I've always… I've always had feelings for you!" Linde 2 said, obviously joking, making both Rean and Linde 1 sweat drop.

"Oh, give it a rest". Linde 1 said annoyed.

"It's too funny, though!" Linde 2 answered while laughing.

"Twins huh?" Rean said noticing the obvious.

"S-sorry; I'll get her to cut it out". The real Linde apologized as the fake one started to un-make her braids letting her hair fall to her back. "Anyway, as you said we're twins; I'm Linde, the older sister".

"And I'm the younger, cuter model, Vivi!" The other twin completed.

"That explains things, so Linde wasn't the one to ask me for the grand rose right?"

"Yep! That was me pretending to be Linde; I must've been pretty convincing!" Vivi confirmed while giggling.

"You fooled me, at least". Rean admitted. "But what's the big deal about a grand rose, anyway?"

"It represents passionate romance so lots of people use it as a way to confess their love to one another". The older of the twins explained. "You can see why I was so taken aback".

"Heehee; you've got some 'splainin' to do, young man". Vivi said next. "How could any boy your age not know about the grand rose?"

"I come from a town that's covered in snow most of the year, flowers were never something I payed much attention to". Rean answered her. "Except for the lino flowers but that's a story for another day".

"Oh, well; I suppose I'll let you off this time, though, since your ignorance meant my prank went off without a hitch". Vivi said with a playful wink.

"I am curious though, what would you have done if I knew about the grand rose?"

"Nothing different really, I would have still asked you for it".

"Really?" He got a nod as a response. "I think if you were to suddenly act shy about it to someone who knows, the prank could go even better".

"…that's good, I'm using it!"

"Thanks, you won't fool me again by switching though". Rean answered.

"Oh, is that a challenge?"

"Maybe".

"Really Vivi, sometimes I think you would explode if you couldn't prank people". Linde said with a heavy sigh. "Sorry about this Rean"

"It's okay, I don't mind an innocent prank every now and then". He assured her before looking between the two. "You two really are identical, though, aside from the hair it would be really hard to tell who is who".

"Rean, you lecherous beast!" Vivi said out of nowhere. "Don't stare at me with that look on your face!"

The swordsman couldn't help but let out a chuckle after hearing that.

"I-I'll be sure she gets a good scolding later and thanks for your help… and for putting up with her". Linde said a bit embarrassed.

"It was no trouble". The swordsman assured her before turning to Vivi. "Don't let the pranks get too out of control or the Student Council may ask me to hunt you down".

"Heehee, I relish the challenge". With that he left the twins to their own devices.

'And now back to the dorm'. Or that's what he thought at first until he saw Fie near the resting area of the second floor. "Hey Fie, what're you doing?"

"Not much". She answered. "Looking for somewhere to nap… I guess?"

"You guess…?" Rean repeated in disbelief. 'I can never tell what she's thinking; maybe I should talk to her a bit more'. "Would you mind if I stuck around here?"

"Go ahead". Fie told him. "It's all yours, see you later".

"I meant stuck around with you, so we could talk for a while". Rean clarified before she could take a step.

"Hmm…" The silver haired girl trailed off with her bored expression making it hard for Rean to guess what she'll say. "Okay".

They both took a seat in front of each other in the couches.

"So… are you always around here this time of day?" Rean asked to get the conversation going.

"Sometimes". Fie answered. "Unless I'm napping somewhere else".

"Yeah, I noticed that you tend to do that; do you like naps?"

"They're okay, what else is there to do during school hours?"

"Oh, come on; don't be ridiculous". That answer got Fie to pay more attention, from surprise if nothing else. "There are plenty of things to do here, and you won't even get to do some of them when you're older"

"For example?" She asked, her expression a bit more curious than before.

"There's studying, joining clubs, hanging out with your friends… all sorts of stuff".

"I'm in a club". This time it was Rean's turn to be surprised.

"Really, which one?"

"The Gardening Club".

"I'm surprised, what are you growing?"

"Nothing".

"R-right". Rean couldn't help but sweat drop at that. "Well, if you do end up growing something, I'd love to see it".

"…Sure". She answered looking away.

"By the way, about your naps". Her expression turned from bored to something that looked like annoyed. "Look, if you really want to sleep outside could you at least get someone you trust to watch over you? It would be a load off my mind".

"…You act like you're my Dad or something". Fie said in response. "Do you get a kick out of getting involved with other people's business?"

"Well, I don't know about that…" Rean trailed off, honestly not sure if what she said was true. "Like I told you once, I'm nosy and I can't help but worry about the people I know or will get to know but sorry if I'm upsetting you; I'll try to not get in your business unless you ask me to".

"Either way". She once again looked away. "…I don't exactly hate it".

"I'll keep that in mind". Rean said smiling, then Fie suddenly got up from the sofa. "Hmm?"

"I've got to get to the Gardening Club".

"Wait, now? Seriously?"

"We're allowed to stop by whenever we want". She answered. "See ya".

"Yeah, see ya lat- emm the stairs are the other way…"

Fie walked towards one of the windows and placed her foot on the sill.

"Uh, Fie…?" 'She's not really going to-'. And then she jumped. "Fie!" Rean got up from the sofa in a panic and looked down at the courtyard to see his classmate walking calmly. 'How in the hell did she do that?!' He wondered looking at the distance between the window and the floor. 'Jumping down from here without taking even a scratch isn't just athletic. It's almost inhuman; where did she learn to do that?' Knowing that he won't get an answer to that question for now he just left.

He did a visit to the Student Council room to see if Towa needed help but Angelica was already there, apparently she was going to help her out before they went for a ride in the orbal bike; he offered to help but at both girls' insistence he left, although while one seemed to be worried about him working too much the other was exuding this aura that seemed to yell 'don't get into our time alone'.

Back at the dorm Rean ran into Emma who told him that she would be happy to go on the next exploration of the old schoolhouse after Alisa told her about what they discovered, the conversation turned towards the other three members who had yet to step into the dungeon willingly; Emma said that Fie would be willing to go while Jusis and Machias… yeah.

She then noticed the scratch on his hand made by, in Rean's own words, 'a beautiful lady he ran into in town… or at least, he thinks she was a lady'; obviously Emma was confused but got what he meant when he explained it was a cat, apparently Emma knows it since she got all flustered and apologized after he described the cat and insisted on tending to his wound.

Time passed and now in the Academy Field it was time for the second practical exam.

"I'm sure you don't need a refresher on how the practical exam works, so let's just get started shall we?" Sara said snapping her fingers and making the 'scarecrow' appear.

"Still… not used to these things; don't know that I'll ever be". Elliot said a bit uneasy.

"…It's changed form". Fie mentioned after a few seconds of observing.

"N-now that you mention it, this one does look different from last month's". Emma supported.

"Fiddling with their setting changes their appearance, too… apparently". The Instructor said. "I really don't know how they work… but it's not like that actually matters!"

"You know, it's kind of discouraging when the instructor who's sending us into battle is so… unconcerned". Rean mentioned.

"All right, let's begin!" Only to obviously be ignored. "Rean, Alisa, Laura, Gaius; step forward!"

The four did as told and prepared to fight.

"All ready? Okay!" Sara began before suddenly yelling. "Show me how it's done!"

.

.

As it turns out the appearance wasn't the only thing that changed as this marionette also had an art that made it invulnerable to physical attacks and an ability where it could discharge electricity in an area around it and cause its opponents' bodies to be less responsive.

It eventually fell as in the opening it made when casting the art they could rush it and interrupt it.

"Well done!" Sara congratulated them. "All that hard work during last month's field study, and in the old schoolhouse before it, has clearly paid off!"

"You may be right". Rean agreed with a chuckle.

"We fought well together". Gaius added.

"Indeed, I would have no objections to another round". Laura said with a smile.

"L-let's not and say we did". Alisa said to that.

"Okay, next team! Machias, Jusis, Elliot, Emma, Fie! Step forward!"

"All of us, at one time?!" Elliot asked taken aback.

"Wh-which means…" Emma trailed off while peeking at Jusis and Machias from the corner of her eyes.

"…Ugh; let's just get this over with!" Machias said with obvious disgust.

"Hmph; I don't need you telling me what to do". Jusis answered.

"Wh-what was that?!"

"There they go". Fie commented, not the least surprised by this turn of events.

And so the group of five took their position.

"Yes, yes, you hate each other, we get it". Sara said shrugging off their discussion. "Are you all ready?... Okay. Begin!"

'This is going to be awful'. Rean thought looking at them start fighting.

.

.

And awful it was.

Aside from Fie, all the other members were panting for breath.

"We even had one more member than Rean's group". Emma thought out loud.

"Hardly surprising". Fie said closing her eyes, her expression saying that she expected this result.

"I knew this was going to be a struggle, but I had no idea your performance would be so…" Sara trailed off for a second looking for the right word and settling for. "…unremarkable; I hope you two in particular have a good, long think about what you did wrong". She obviously meant the blond noble and the shotgun user. "This outcome is largely your fault, after all".

The only response they could give was a glare.

"This is the first time I've ever heard her speaking so harshly almost… like a teacher!" Rean whispered to his group for the practical exam.

"Well, considering the situation, it's no wonder she's frustrated". Alisa answered.

"That concludes today's practical exam". Sara announced before taking out the papers with the details for the next field study and everyone grabbing one.

'Let's see I'm in group A with Emma… Machias, Jusis and Fie'. Rean read the paper.

"Bareahard and Saint-Arkh… both very well-known cities here in the Empire". Gaius commented.

"Bareahard's the capital of the Kreuzen Province in the east, right?" Elliot asked just to make sure.

"And Saint-Arkh is the capital of Sutherland in the south". Alisa added.

"Two provincial capitals, they seem like fair choices". Laura gave her opinion.

"I… guess they are, but…"

"That's the least of our worries". Fie finished for Emma after she trailed off.

"Is this some kind of sick joke?" Machias finally yelled. "Instructor, what are you trying to prove?! Do you have some sort of personal vendetta against us or something?!"

"…For a change, I agree with him". Jusis said crossing his arms. "This is ludicrous; I refuse to accept these group allocations, change them at once".

"I don't know, they seem pretty perfect from where I'm standing". Sara answered calmly. "Besides, you're from Bareahard, so putting you in group A was a no-brainer!"

"Then put me in Group B!" The green haired teen debated, loudly. "I'm not thrilled at the thought of going to Saint-Arkh either, but it's better than gallivanting off to HIS hometown! Besides, everyone knows Bareahard is like a breeding ground for nobles and their dusty old ideas; the place is crawling with them!"

"Well, I can't deny that". The pink haired woman conceded. "Especially since that's exactly why I put in Group A to begin with!" She added happily making Machias glare at her. "I'm no army officer, so I'm not about to go telling you that my orders are absolute and such, that's much too military for my liking, but I am your Instructor and it's my duty to look out for your best interests; which, I feel, is exactly what I'm doing here, so if you have any objections…" She paused and made a sweet smile. "…then how about the two of you try to make me listen to them by force?"

"…Interesting". Jusis said as he and Machias exchanged a look and nodded to each other, possibly agreeing for one of the first times since they met, and took a step forward despite the protests from Rean and Elliot.

"Heh, male pride is so predictable; I knew you couldn't possibly turn down an offer like that… and I wouldn't have it any other way!" With those words she took out an orbal gun and a sword from under her coat, both purple colored.

"Those are… terrifying-looking weapons". Alisa gave her opinion.

Machias and Jusis's confident expressions changed after seeing the weapons but still prepared their own.

"That's the spirit!" Sara said chuckling. "Rean, why don't you give them a hand? I'll take on all three of you!"

'…We are beyond screwed'. The aforementioned thought, noticing for the first time that their Instructor was strong; he never doubted that she had some degree of skill in combat but this was the first time that she actually showed it. "Yes, Instructor!" He finally answered taking his place near the other two combatants.

Once everyone was ready a purple aura started to surround Instructor Sara making almost every member of Class VII gulp.

"…what a powerful aura". Laura commented.

"All right". The Instructor's voice interrupted everyone's thoughts. "It's time for some… EXTREME extra credit". She then pointed her gun at the three teens. "If you think you can 'convince' me to change your assignments… well, let's just see how well you measure up!"

That was the signal to start the battle.

Rean quickly tried to make a combat link with the other two but a second after it was established it broke and as Instructor Sara had explained once during their training if a combat link is broken without both parties agreeing on it, it will cause something akin to a shortcut in the ARCUS making it impossible to make a new one for some time.

Without any other option the three fought without them, Rean and Jusis tried to rush Sara who easily parried the second's attack making him lose balance while positioning in such a way that Rean was in the line of fire between Machias and her, then hitting the Eight Leaves swordsman with her sword, he managed to block it but just the strength of the hit sent him back almost all the way where Machias was.

Jusis tried to take the chance while Sara had her back at him to make a thrust with his sword but when it was about to connect the Instructor side-stepped and then placed her gun in the back of the noble's head and pulled the trigger sending him face first to the ground.

"Don't worry, they're just paralyzing rounds, you'll be able to move after a while". The Instructor assured everyone present that she hadn't just killed him; Jusis could do nothing but curse in his mind, knowing he was already out of this battle.

"Break shot!" Thinking that Sara was distracted Machias quickly used his shotgun's feature to send a larger bullet towards the her, who only grinned jumping above it and then coming down with her sword near the green haired teen, confusion was spread in his features as to why she didn't just hit him when from Sara's sword a large discharge of electricity was released knocking him out.

'Yep, beyond screwed'. Rean repeated in his mind while maintaining his guard.

"Now that I think about it, I never really gave you any incentive, did I Rean?" Sara asked calmly. "Tell you what, manage to get one hit on me and I'll let you change groups if you want".

"Heh, how generous of you". The black haired teen answered, already aware that the chances of him getting a hit where almost none. 'Well, I'm not about to just give up without trying'. Taking a deep breath he once again lunged towards her.

But no matter what he tried Sara always parried it or blocked with little to no trouble while sending him flying a few feet away with each hit; Rean was doing the right thing though, he could only fight at close range while Sara still had her orbal gun if he tried to maintain his distance so the only choice he had if he wanted to at least attempt to win was to keep it a close range fight.

'I know that but-'. The swordsman's thoughts were interrupted when Sara once again sent him flying away. 'She is way stronger than me at close range… let's try something different'. He sheathed his sword and concentrated to do the same he did against the statues in the old schoolhouse, after a few seconds he draw his sword sending the same arc-shaped energy as that time towards Sara.

The Instructor simply grinned and shot it down with her gun, this wasn't unexpected if anything Rean was counting on it, using that attack as a distraction he had closed the distance between them with his sword held high he brought it down aiming for the woman's head, the timing was right but Sara still managed to side-step and moved her sword held in her right hand to hit Rean who moved his sword in between but instead of blocking it he moved his blade as to make the attack go past him, making it so now Sara had her back on him.

'Now'. Without missing a beat he moved his sword as fast as he could but the next moment he felt a sharp pain on his cheek staggering him and then was forced to block yet another slash from the Instructor's sword that ended up sending him a good distance from her.

'How did she…?' He trailed off trying to understand what happened while using his sword as support to get back up. 'I see, she spun in place and used her gun to hit me before using her sword to force me away'. He understood after a second of thought.

"There is no way he is going to win, is it?" Alisa asked a bit worried.

"It certainly seems that way…" Emma agreed with a similar expression.

"There is too much of a difference between them". Laura gave her opinion. "I don't think any of us can actually represent a challenge towards her".

"D-do you think he'll at least get one hit in?" Elliot asked, remembering the 'incentive' Sara had given him.

"It doesn't seem likely". Gaius gave his two cents on the matter.

"He is not going to get a hit in, too much of a difference". Fie confirmed.

'Well, what can I do now?' Rean thought getting back on his feet, his breath was ragged and he felt his hands numb from all the hits he had to block.

"I admit, I didn't think you would hang on for so long". Sara praised him. "But we're running out of time so… I'll give you one last attack, after that we have to go back to the classroom".

"Got it". The black haired teen answered panting and massaging his cheek. "Well then". He sheathed his sword and assumed the fourth form's stance.

Sara smiled and put away her orbal gun before making a gesture with her hand to 'come and get her', facing him with only her sword.

'Here I come'. Taking one deep breath Rean started his dash.

Moving as fast as his legs would allow him and quickly closing the distance between them.

'It was a good fight Rean'. Sara admitted in her mind. 'With more training you can definitely reach me'. He was now five steps away. 'But I'm sorry; right now you're simply not at my level'.

Three steps away… two… when he was one step from her reach she moved her sword from her top left side making a diagonal slash down, it was a direct hit knocking the student out.

.

.

Or it should have been.

When he was one step away, Rean had purposely stopped himself; he hadn't been dashing as a faint, that wouldn't work against Sara, that's why he ran as if he was really going to use the fourth form but one step before he would get into her reach he had forced himself to a complete stop making the Instructor's sword miss him by merely a hair of distance.

'The fourth form, Autumn Leaf Cutter!' He yelled in his mind once again moving after the Instructor's sword missed him and using the one technique he felt the most comfortable with, the momentum moving him around three feet from the Instructor.

"Hehe, not bad Rean". Sara said a bit proudly as the swordsman fell to the ground. "But you really aren't at my level yet".

Rean rolled so he was face-up in the ground while trying to get his breath under control.

"I admit defeat". He said between pants.

"Oh, but you did manage to hit me"

"Eh?"

"Yeah, see". Sara showed that a part of her green coat had a small cut in it, not even enough that anyone who isn't looking for it would notice but it was there nonetheless.

"Heh, ahaha". Rean couldn't help but chuckle at seeing this.

"A deal is a deal, you want to change groups?" The student thought for a second before answering.

"…Nah, I can't call something like that a hit and I honestly don't mind the group I was assigned to, anyway".

"I had a feeling you'd say that". Sara said smiling. "Well, that settles it; Group A and Group B will be heading to their destinations this weekend as planned". She said, mostly for Machias and Jusis who had gotten up a few seconds before Rean attempted his last strike. "Good luck, everybody! I'll be expecting souvenirs!"

After that Elliot, Gaius, Laura, Alisa, Emma and Fie approached Rean who was still lying on the ground.

"A-are you okay?" The red haired teen asked worriedly.

"I'm sore in places that I didn't know existed". The Eight Leaves practitioner joked. "Other than that, I'm peachy".

"It was a good fight". The tallest member of Class VII praised.

"Indeed it was". The blue haired swordswoman agreed.

"Thanks, hey Gaius".

"Hmm?"

"Could you lend me a hand going back to the classroom? I feel like I would fall over otherwise".

"Of course". He assured as he helped his friend get on his feet.

"Thanks".

"I had no idea she was that strong". Alisa said referring to their Instructor as Class VII started to head back.

"I believe she was holding back, too". Gaius commented.

"Definitely, the three of us would be dead otherwise". Rean confirmed.

"Her combat style is most unique; I couldn't even hazard a guess as to what school she represents". Laura thought out loud.

"I guess this means…" Emma trailed off, everyone knowing what she was going to say.

"Yup, decision's final". Fie stated the obvious.

Everyone then made their way to the classroom in silence, including the other two victims of Instructor Sara, until.

"Oh, crap". Rean said out of nowhere.

"Is something wrong?" Gaius asked curiously.

"We have one more class before school finishes for the day, right?" The other members nodded yes. "And it's with the vice-principal, right?" Again everyone nodded. "…damn it, I feel like I will fall asleep in the middle of the lesson". The swordsman sighed, making some of the other members of Class VII chuckle at his comment.

Luckily Rean didn't fall asleep, although he felt tempted to do so in more than one occasion during the lesson, and now it was homeroom.

"Well, some of you probably want to rest so I'll just cut it short". Sara said, the Eight Leaves practitioner thanking her. "Emma, if you'll do the honors".

"All rise… Bow". And with that classes for the day were over.

"Hey Rean, we were gonna get something from the cafeteria, want to come?" Elliot asked; everyone but him, Rean and Gaius already out of the classroom to do their own thing.

"Sorry but I'll have to pass, I'm just going to go to the dorm and sleep till Friday". Rean answered with a yawn.

"Hmm, but it's Wednesday". Gaius mentioned.

"I'm aware". The swordsman assured him with a playful grin.

"Can you make it back on your own though?" The musician asked worriedly.

"Yeah, I'll just rest here for a bit and be on my way". It took some more convincing but eventually Elliot and Gaius went away.

.

.

'Alright, time to get going'. Rean thought after a few minutes of doing nothing but rest in his seat at the same time he got up; sadly something caught his attention before he could leave, that something been a book in Laura's seat. 'Oh, isn't this that book Instructor Mary told us to read for tomorrow?' The fuchsia eyed teen thought. 'I'm sure she will remember and come back later… she will, right?' Despite his attempts to convince himself that his fellow sword user will, something kept nagging him. 'I'll call her and tell her just to make sure'.

With that thought he took out his ARCUS and called Laura… but she didn't answer.

'She must be in the pool'. He thought, been the most logical answer and looking at the book. 'She can ask someone to lend her one, right?' He once again tried to justify himself but in the end his conscience got the better of him, thinking of the possibility that she may not be able to read it because he didn't tell her and even though maybe she already did there was a chance that she didn't and one night wouldn't be enough unless she pulled an all-nighter, not to mention that he knows that Laura tends to stay in the pool until it was time for the school to close. '…damn it'. He cursed at himself, walking towards the pool.

"Oh, hello Rean what brings you here?" Laura asked when she saw him enter the pool room.

"I happened to see this at your seat and since you didn't answer I brought it to you". He answered showing her the book.

"Oh, I appreciate it but I was already finished with that book". That got Rean to sigh.

"I thought you might". He whispered to himself.

"Still, thank you for bringing it to me".

"Don't mention it, see ya later". With that he dragged himself out of the gymnasium. '-Sigh- Now I need to get to the dorm from here, well when everything goes wrong you should-'.

"Rean?" His inner monologue was interrupted when he heard someone calling his name.

"Hi Fie, what are you doing?"

"I'm in the gardening club". She reminded him pointing to the garden. "Why are you here?" He then told her about the book. "I thought you would be too tired to do that"

"I am but my conscience wouldn't let me rest if I didn't tell her about it and she wasn't answering her ARCUS". Rean then got an idea. "Hey, can I ask you a favor?"

"It depends on the favor". She answered.

"If I go and sleep over there in that tree near the lake, could you wake me up when school is about to close?" Fie blinked a few times in surprise.

"I thought you were the one who told me not to take naps in public places". She said with the hint of a smirk in her face.

"In my defense, I told you that if you do you should get someone you trust to watch over you". The black haired teen defended before yawning.

"True". She admitted before staying silent for a few seconds. "So that means you trust me?"

"Yeah".

"Why?"

"You haven't given me a reason not to".

Again silence made itself present before once again Fie broke it.

"All right, I'll wake you up later".

"Thank you Fie, I owe you one". He quickly, or what could pass as that given his current condition, made his way to the tree near the lake.

"Hey, Rean". A voice he recognized called out to him. "Did you come here to see me? You shouldn't have bothered".

"Hehe, sorry Vivi I'm just going to take a nap there and leave". Rean answered with a tired grin pointing to the tree.

"Oh, you sure you want to leave yourself open with me around?" She teased.

"Fie, please make sure she doesn't do anything to me". He said to his fellow member of Class VII who nodded before this time actually taking his nap.

"Oh, you two in good terms?" Vivi asked Fie after Rean left and literally dropped himself in the tree instantly asleep.

"Not really, he just asked me for a favor". The silver haired girl answered.

"Sure, sure". The member of the gardening club said giggling.

BLOOPER

"Did you just try to shoot me?!" Jusis yelled while glaring at Machias after his group tried to rush the 'scarecrow'.

"You're the one who got in my way!" Machias yelled back. "Trust me, if I wanted to shoot you I would have done so!"

"Guys". Elliot tried to call out to them but.

"NOT NOW". They both yelled to him.

"Hmm".

"Just leave them be". Fie told the musician.

"But if we do- watch out it's coming your way". Emma tried to warn them about the combat shell going towards them with its arms at the ready, it prepared to strike and.

"NOT NOW" They once again yelled, this time to what was supposed to be their enemy.

The combat shell actually stopped for a second turning its head towards the other members of Class VII as if asking 'are they for real?'

"Yes, they are". Fie answered its unspoken question before it shrugged and sent the noble and the shotgun user flying.

Chapter Text

"I admit, it feels nice to take a nap like that". Rean said stretching his arms over his head while walking back to the dorm with Fie after she woke him up.

"I know". The silver haired girl answered while watching ahead. "Does that mean you're going to stop telling me not to do that?"

"It depends, are you going to ask someone to watch over you if you're in public?"

"You're still hanged up on that?" She asked with her signature bored look. "Who could I ask anyway?"

"Well… first person that comes to mind is Emma".

"…I guess". She answered.

"I'm not sure how you get along with the others but if we're talking about trustworthy people, I think you could ask almost anyone in our class". He added. "Laura and Alisa are also there; depending on where you sleep Laura could probably practice while keeping an eye on you".

"I haven't talked with them much; it would be weird to ask them to keep an eye on me while I sleep".

"That's fair". Rean said with a nod.

"How come you haven't offered yourself to watch me while I sleep?" Fie asked turning her head to look at him.

"Ehm, because I'm a guy?" He asked weakly, thinking it would be common sense.

"So?" Apparently not to her.

"…well, if you don't mind being me…" The swordsman trailed off waiting for her to talk.

"I'll think about it". She finally answered turning back to look at the road.

"Thanks, want to get something from Kirsche?" After a nod from her both went to one of the two places from where they get their food and went back to the dorm afterwards.

'Oh, so that's how you solve that'. Rean thought solving one of the problems from the homework the Instructors left to them, his radio tuned to Radio Trista so he can have some music in the background.

*Knock knock*

'Hmm, who could it be?' He wondered for a second before getting up from his desk and walking to the door, as soon as he opened it.

"Machias hit you?!" Alisa half yelled.

"…good evening to you too". The teen said, getting over his initial surprise.

"I'm so sorry Rean". Emma said from behind the archer. "We were talking about the upcoming field study and that came up".

"It's fine, come on in". He said moving aside so the two girls could go inside, which they did, he closed the door afterwards. "So, what do you want to know?"

"First of all, why did he hit you?" The blond girl asked.

"I tried to have him tell me why he hates nobles, and by that I mean I told him I wouldn't let him leave the classroom till he did, after I didn't listen to him telling me to move, he hit me". He summarized.

"THAT'S why he hit you?! It was completely uncalled for!"

"Well, I think I vaguely remember a certain someone trying to hit some other someone because of something they admitted was an accident". Rean said with a playful grin while scratching his chin as if he was trying to remember.

"Th-that's different, been slapped because of a misunderstanding, which was cleared up already, and been hit because of an argument isn't the same". Alisa argued.

"Yeah, that's true". The Eight Leaves practitioner conceded. "Anything else?"

"What are you gonna do?"

"Hopefully make peace with him during the field study, like it or not he will have to interact with me there, with some luck Jusis and Machias will reach a truce… scratch that, we'll need a LOT of luck for that to happen".

"…that's it?" Alisa asked with a half glare.

"What do you mean?"

"You're not going to report him to the school or the Student Council?"

"Nop". He answered before adding. "Oh, but Towa already knows since she noticed I had a bruise and I told her the story, but I asked her not to make a big deal out of it and let me handle it".

"Why?"

"I am curious as well". Emma supported Alisa.

"Hmm… because I want to, is the only reason I can think of". Both girls looked at him confused. "I mean, I could report him which would probably mean he would get a punishment from the school but that wouldn't really solve anything, he would still hate nobles afterwards, even if I explain everything and the Instructors try to talk to him I find it hard to believe he would tell them; in fact, there is even a chance that some nobles may try to provoke him to get him in more trouble".

"W-would they really do that?" The class president asked, almost not wanting to believe it.

"Sadly, there are some that would". Rean told them matter-of-factly. "Or at least there is a chance, which I'm not risking".

"Aren't you been too considerate towards Machias?" Alisa asked next. "I mean, no matter the reason he did hit you and everything you just said seems to only benefit him".

"Maybe but that's what I want to do".

"-Sigh- You are way too selfless, you know?" Alisa asked with a small smile.

"You just say that because you don't know my parents". He replied with a chuckle. "There is a picture of them over there if you want to see". He pointed to the shelf and the two girls went to see it.

"Who is that girl?" Emma asked curiously.

"She is my sister, her name is Elise". They looked at the picture for a few more seconds.

"Well, we'll let you get back to what you were doing before". Alisa said moving towards the door.

"Oh, before you go, did you tell anyone else?" Rean asked.

"Well… after I kind of forced it out from Emma we came here so no". The blond archer answered first with a hint of embarrassment in her voice.

"Forced it out?" The swordsman repeated with a raised eyebrow.

"Basically we were talking about the field study when the thing with Machias and Jusis came up, I ended up remembering the incident between you two and I guess it showed in my face because Alisa could tell something was wrong". The orbal staff user explained.

"I see".

"Who else knows since we're on the topic?"

"Aside from you two; Elliot, Gaius, Fie, Towa and Instructor Sara". Rean counted. "I'd like to keep it that way if possible".

"Sure, we won't tell anyone". Alisa assured him.

"I'll be more careful".

"Thanks you two, see ya tomorrow". And with that the two girls left Rean's room. "Alright, back to the homework".

Before anyone realized the weekend came.

'Time to go downstairs'. Rean thought as he left his room and went for the stairs, once he made his way down. '…this isn't a good omen'. Standing at the entrance hall were Machias and Jusis standing around five feet from each other while looking away as if they were two kids giving the other the cold shoulder.

"Morning, you two are up early". He said as he approached in an attempt to break the tense atmosphere between them, he was only received with silence until Machias spoke after a few seconds.

"I want to make this very clear before we leave". He started. "You are my classmate, you are not my friend; we may be in the same group but I would appreciate it if you would not address me as casually as you seem want to do".

"So I can't say 'morning' to you as a form of greeting then?" The swordsman asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Our class' vice president is as stubborn as ever". Jusis commented with a smirk. "And could you remind me, who exactly nominated him for that position?"

'Oh boy'.

"Say that again! I dare you!" The green haired teen yelled giving another example of his incredible lung capacity.

'We haven't even left and it already feels like they're one word away from punching each other'. Rean thought with a sigh, luckily the 'prideful warriors' stopped their argument when a yawn was heard from the stairs followed by.

"Erm… good morning, everyone". Emma's voice, as her and Fie approached the three guys.

"Morning". The black haired one greeted.

"…It looks like we're all gathered, then". Emma said with a somewhat nervous laugh. "Shall we be leaving?"

"We might as well… though there's still some time before our train leaves". Rean answered her.

"I'll be waiting at the train station". Jusis said leaving the dorm.

"I will too". Machias said with a scowl.

'This is going to be a long weekend…' The Eight Leaves practitioner thought already feeling tired. "You two already went through this, how bad is it gonna be?"

"Disastrous". Fie answered directly, Emma seemed to be trying to defend the other two members of their group… but she ended up staying quiet.

"Great". He let out another heavy sigh before composing himself. "Want to walk around for a bit or go to the station?"

"Oh, there was a book I was hoping to purchase from Keynes before leaving, would you two mind if we go there?" The vice president asked.

"Fine by me".

"Well, let's go". Rean and Fie answered in turn.

They ended up purchasing the new Imperial Chronicle too and started to make their way when Rean saw two familiar faces sitting at one of the outdoor tables of Kirsche.

"Morning Crow, Angelica".

"Yo, good to see you ready for action this early in the morning". The second year greeted back before looking at the two girls. "Ohoho Reany, I didn't take you for the type to do this". He said with a knowing grin.

"Whatever you're thinking I can tell you that you're wrong". The fuchsia eyed teen answered. "They are Fie and Emma, they're also members of Class VII and this is Crow, he is a second year… despite appearances and she is Angelica, also a second year".

"Nice to meet'cha". The white haired teen said grinning while ignoring the last comment.

"L-Likewise" Emma answered while Fie only nodded.

"You've got quite the group with you today". Angelica said looking at Emma. "First we have the delicate, diligent beauty with the dynamite figure and the glasses you just want to fog right up". She then turned to Fie. "And then there's the petite, taciturn darling with the silver hair; I'd press my delicates on THAT ironing board". The noble upperclassmen closed her eyes for a second. "Oh, if only I could add the both of you to my wonderful harem!"

"Umm…" Emma trailed off nervously not knowing how to answer.

"Creep". While Fie simply spoke her mind.

"Why are you up so early by the way?" Rean asked mildly surprised to see them up at this time of day… but mostly to change the topic.

"I thought I'd set a good example as a responsible upperclassman and give you guys a heartfelt Crow send-off". He answered playfully. "Isn't your group a bit small though?"

"Yeah, I thought you were two groups one with four and the other with five people". Angelica added.

"We have two more members but they already went towards the station". The bespectacled girl explained.

"Trouble in paradise?" Crow asked ironically before turning a bit more serious. "You gonna be ok Reany? I heard from Towa that you and one of the members of your group had a fight; oh but don't worry she told me I couldn't go around telling people".

"For some reason I picture you as the type to start rumors and please don't call me 'Reany'".

"Well that's true". Crow admitted to the first part with a laugh. "But even I know that there are some things that shouldn't be made public".

"Hehe, I see even you can act like a responsible upperclassmen every now and then". The purple haired girl said with a grin. "Me and George know about that too but don't worry, neither will go around telling".

"Thanks".

"We should get going". Fie said looking at the time.

"Good luck, surprise me with a cool souvenir when you get back!" The male second year said as Class VII said goodbye and went towards the station.

"Ah, you made it!" Gaius said once he saw Rean, Emma and Fie entered the train station.

"Hey". Alisa joined in the greeting.

"Good morning, are you leaving now too?" Followed by Elliot.

"Yeah; I'm hoping we'll be able to reach Bareahard before noon". Rean answered. "Looks like you guys already have your tickets, huh?" He added noticing the tickets on Group B's hands.

"Yeah, the train to the capital should be arriving any minute now".

"Our destination, Saint-Arkh, is about as far from Trista as yours, I believe". Alisa and Laura confirmed.

"Yes, they're both about five hours from Trista by express train". Emma added.

"By the way". Rean started while looking at Jusis and Machias near the gate to the train stops in the same position he found them in the dorm. "Have they been like this since they arrived?"

"Y-yeah, pretty much". The musician confirmed.

"After taking their tickets they went there and refused to move". Laura added.

"I'm amazed they're not sick of the whole ordeal by now". Alisa mentioned with an annoyed sigh.

"It's getting tedious". Fie agreed.

"This will be a long, long, weekend". The Eight Leaves practitioner said with a resigned smile.

"If anyone can do it, it's you, Rean". Gaius said making sure Jusis and Machias weren't listening.

"Uhh… do what?" He asked tilting his head.

"Get those two to make peace with one another". The tall foreigner explained. "I couldn't make it work but I suspect you have a much better chance".

"You think?" This question came from Alisa not Rean. "I mean, you also have something of a… disagreement with Machias"

"Oh, you do?" Laura asked in surprise but before she could ask anything else a voice was heard from the speakers of the station saying that Group B's train was arriving.

"That's us!" Elliot said.

"I'm afraid we've got to run". Alisa apologized.

"May Aidios be with you; let's all do our best". Laura wished luck to her fellow classmates.

"Likewise". Rean said back. "Oh, and you can tell Laura about 'that' after you get on the train". He then raised a fist in the direction of Gaius. "I don't know if I can do it but I'll give it a shot". Gaius smiled and bumped fists.

After everyone said their goodbyes Group B left and not long after Group A got their tickets and got into their train.

In the train to Bareahard.

Unsurprisingly, the 'prideful warriors' of Class VII kept giving the other the cold shoulder after everyone got to their seats; why they decided to seat right in front of each other, though, is anyone's guess.

While Fie seemed to doze off, Rean and Emma could feel the uncomfortable atmosphere surrounding the group.

"Er-erm…" Emma tried to come up with something to lessen the heavy mood and after a few seconds came up with something. "Sh-shall we review what we know about where we're going?"

"Yeah, that sounds like a good idea". Rean supported while mentally congratulating Emma for coming up with something to talk about. "Would you mind giving us an overview, Jusis? You're from Bareahard City, after all".

"Hmph; if that's what you want, I'll oblige". The blond noble answered. "But are you sure you wouldn't rather hear from the group's finest intellectual mind instead?"

"…you know something about Bareahard Emma?" The black haired teen asked in surprise.

"Eh? N-no, just what I've read but I've never been there".

"…oh, right". Almost like a realization just struck Jusis he blinked a few times before coughing into his hand. "I meant the other fine intellectual mind of our group".

'Oh great'. Rean sighed in his mind seeing where this was going. 'But wait… does this mean I kind of insulted Machias without realizing?' He moved that question aside for the moment since Jusis kept talking.

"I'm sure he'd be able to give you a far more critical analysis, without any of the pro-noble bias I'm certain to inject". Of course said intellectual mind didn't take kindly to his tone.

"Are you suggesting that I allow my views to cloud my ability to see things objectively?!"

'Y-You kind of do Machias'. The orbal staff user of the group thought but decided to keep that to herself.

"Oh, not at all". Jusis said condescendingly. "You were intelligent enough to score second on the entrance exam, after all, and you've spent every waking moment since with your nose glued to a textbook, studying as if your life depended on it, so I'm sure your knowledge is quite vast, in terms of book smarts… even if it is lacking in virtually every other regard".

"Why, you-!" Machias stood up seemingly ready to once again show how strong his lungs are.

"P-please, stop, both of you!" Emma pleaded but it didn't seem to have much effect.

"Well, it's easy to see why you scored so miserably in last month's field study". Rean said out of nowhere joining the conversation. "You two have my condolences". The last part was directed to the girls in the group.

"Wh-What was that?!" Machias almost yelled while Jusis glared.

"R-Rean…?" Emma trailed off surprised by the comment.

"Last month, Group B got an 'E' on their field study". The fuchsia eyed teen started. "If it had been a paper exam, it would've been a fail and a low one, too". He then looked at Jusis and Machias. "Do you two really want that to happen again?"

"W-Well…" The shotgun user trailed off, knowing he had no defense for that.

"I hope you're not naively suggesting we just put all of our differences aside and become best friends". The blond noble answered with a half glare.

"Of course not, we were chosen to be in Class VII because of our differences, in fact". Rean answered calmly. "We come from different backgrounds, so naturally we're going to have conflicting opinions and ways of looking at things and no doubt we all have a few beliefs that we're not willing to compromise on, no matter what". The rest of Group A simply listened quietly. "But that doesn't change the fact that for the next few days, we're all part of the same group; we're all…" He trailed off looking for the right word and settled for. "…partners".

"Hmph, I was wondering what you were getting at". Jusis answered with disdain.

"YOU HAVE TO BE JOKING! I REFUSE TO ACCEPT THE IDEA THAT-".

"I'm not saying we have to be friends! Also, try to tone it down a bit, you're disturbing the other passengers" The swordsman interrupted before the class vice president could continue. "But we're in the same group and we're working toward the same objective… let me try putting it another way". He decided to try for a different angle. "We're united against a common 'enemy' -Group B- and unless we want to lose to them, we have to work together here".

"What?"

"R-Rean?"

"…I wouldn't have taken you to be the competitive type". Machias, Emma and Jusis showed their surprise at that statement.

"Of course I am!" The black haired teen said as if it was obvious. "I care about winning and losing just as much as the next guy, and get just as frustrated when other people hold me back! I'm jealous of how good your grades are, for example… all three of you; I feel like I'm losing the race and have to struggle to catch up and it was beyond frustrating when we lost against the instructor the other day".

"I see…" The green haired teen said looking away while Jusis 'hmph-ed' closing his eyes.

"There's no denying that she's strong, incredibly strong, in fact; I don't know what kind of experience or training she's been through to become that way, but it's simply a fact". Rean continued. "I just feel like if we'd been able to work together a little better, if we'd been able to form a proper combat link with one another… we may have at least evened the odds a little". He wasn't arrogant enough to think they would have defeated her and that statement left the other two that fought her in silence.

"You would've". The fifth member of the group suddenly spoke gaining the others' attention. "Sara's only strong because she knows how to fight if you'd been able to work together, you could've withstood her onslaught a little longer". Fie stated. "You might not have won, but you wouldn't really have lost, either".

"Exactly". Rean agreed.

"Alisa, Laura and Elliot are all in the same group as last time and Gaius seems like the type who can work well with anyone". Emma said matter-of-factly.

"They'll be a strong team". Fie supported.

"Yeah, they'll be able to give their absolute best, no matter what comes their way". Rean said next, having already worked together with all the members of Group B. "Honestly, if we don't do something about our own shortcomings, their score could easily double ours".

"Enough! I get it already!" Machias silenced them while taking his seat again. "And it's not like I have much of a choice but to go along with your 'yay team' attitude, now, do I?!"

"Indeed, I would prefer not to cooperate with this farce… but I have no intention of standing by and accepting defeat". Jusis agreed.

"Then…"

"Until this trip is over, we will call a truce". The shotgun user stated. "Agreed?"

"Hmph, very well". The blond noble conceded. "The very notion of working under these circumstances is ludicrous, but I am more than capable of enduring such idiocy if I must".

"Th-the same goes for me!"

Hearing this Rean couldn't help but sigh.

"Well, at least it seems they might actually try to cooperate with one another this time, right?" Emma whispered. "That's a significant improvement over last month".

"I do feel a little better". Fie supported, also whispering.

"…this is an improvement?" Rean asked with a deadpan expression. "I shudder to think what things must have been like last time".

With the truce called, Jusis finally started to talk about Bareahard; basically it specializes in fur and gems but most noteworthy of all it's a city of nobles with them, and the Albarea household in particular, at its center. He also warned to Machias that if he wanted to avoid becoming friendly with the provincial army he should hold his tongue, the green haired teen answered that he could hold his tongue when he has to.

"Rean". Machias called to the swordsman.

"Yes?"

"I will call a truce with you too for the duration of this trip".

"Shouldn't he be the one calling the truce?" Fie asked. "You were the one to hit him after all".

"What?" Jusis asked not having heard about this before.

"W-well I-I…" The shotgun user stuttered before looking away in embarrassment.

"It's fine I don't hold a grudge". Rean said. "Oh and about your question Jusis…" He explained the situation that led to the hit.

.

"Hmph, I didn't think you would go beyond a verbal assault". Jusis said with a neutral expression.

"Let's just drop the subject, please". And with that the 'prideful warriors' went back to be silent and looking away from each other.

"Thank you so much, Rean". Emma whispered. "Gaius was right about you".

"About what?"

"About what he said at the station".

"Oh that, I don't think I did anything special though, I just gave my honest opinion".

"And that's exactly why I think you were able to convince them". The class president said smiling. "I guess it's up to us now, to make sure we don't let the group down!"

"We won't, I'm sure of it".

"What are you two whispering about?" Machias asked.

"It is rather suspicious". Jusis added making them laugh nervously.

"Hey, it's been about two months since you left Bareahard, right Jusis?" Rean tried to change the subject.

"Yes, and I wasn't expecting to go back so soon". The noble answered. "Two months is hardly enough time for anything to truly change".

"That's true". The other swordsman agreed. "For some reason I get the feeling that I'm going to need to be a lot more conscious of the things I say and do once we arrive".

"Nobles do have quite a fixation with social standing and class". Machias snorted after hearing this but was ignored. "But you should try not to let that bother you, if you exert too much energy reining in your every word and action, we won't be able to get anything done".

"That's good advice, thanks; let us know if you have any other like that, we'll be relying on your knowledge of the city".

"Hmph; you're in good hands, then".

'I still think this will be a long weekend'. Rean thought getting a bit more comfortable in his seat. 'But maybe not as long as I thought at first'. He then noticed Fie staring at him.

"Is something the matter?"

"I underestimated you; a little". The silver haired girl answered.

"Thanks, I guess?" Rean answered with a chuckle. "Still, the hard part will be keeping this up for the whole of our field trip and we're going to need to get a whole lot stronger if we want to have a better chance against the Instructor next time".

"If you want to beat Sara, a little extra training won't be enough".

"True, we were completely outclassed by her last time".

"It was rather impressive actually".

"Hmm, you think?"

"I was sure you wouldn't get a hit in no matter what but you managed somehow". Fie clarified.

"I don't think that to be honest". He answered surprising the younger girl a bit. "I mean, I got beat up pretty badly and only managed to hit a part of her clothes after coming up with a trick while she was holding back, if it was a real fight I would have been defeated long before I had that chance".

"…that's true". The gun-sword user conceded.

"I wonder what sort of regimen she underwent to wind up so strong".

"It's just who she is".

'…it sounds like she knows something'. Rean thought. 'Maybe one day she'll open up a bit more'.

After that conversation a heavy silence followed, maybe they agreed to a truce but Jusis and Machias weren't about to start talking with each other and that combined with how they still were looking away from one another made it a bit hard to break the ice.

"…anyone wants to play Blade?" Rean asked after the silence became annoying to him.

"Blade?" Emma asked.

"It's a card game". He answered taking out two decks. "I got another deck since I thought some of you may not know about it".

"I don't know the rules but if you could explain them I'd be happy to play". The class president said smiling. "What about you Fie?"

"…Sure". The youngest member of the class said simply.

"And you two?" The Eight Leaves practitioner asked the last two members of the group.

"I'll pass".

"So will I".

Machias and Jusis answered.

'Oh well, one step at a time'. After Rean explained the rules to Emma and Fie the three passed the time playing among each other till they arrived.

After the train stopped Class VII grabbed their things and got out from it to the station, they didn't even took three steps when.

"Lord Jusis!" Four employees from the station ran towards them or, more specifically, to Jusis. "Welcome back to Bareahard!" The one that seemed to be in charge said.

"It's a pleasure to see you again!" Another employee said.

"A-Amazing…" Emma whispered in surprise.

"Hmph, I can't believe all the station employees would abandon their duties to come and welcome him". Machias opined.

"He's a real VIP". Fie gave her two cents on the matter.

"He doesn't look happy about it, though". Rean thought out loud.

"I've returned here as a student of Thors Military Academy, to conduct a field study". Jusis said to the station employees suppressing a scowl that was progressively getting harder to stop from showing. "I believe you were informed that this manner of excessive welcome is neither necessary nor desired, were you not?"

"W-well, yes, but…" The one in charge trailed off when another employee finished for him.

"You're a child of the Albarea household! If anything, we should be apologizing for not giving you an even greater welcome!"

"Please, allow me to carry your luggage".

"We would be honored to carry the belongings of your classmates as well".

It felt like Jusis was one word away from telling them off but he never got the chance.

"That won't be necessary". Another voice said from behind the employees as he walked down the stairs along with a butler, 'he' been a young man with blond hair tied in a pony tail that fell on his left shoulder wearing a light green robe uniform with a white dress shirt underneath, a dark magenta scarf, tan brown pants, bronze colored boots and a pin-&-line attached dark-gray cape that stretches down to the back of his ankles.

"Huh?"

"Lord Rufus?" The employees asked in surprise.

"R-Rufus?!" Jusis asked, this probably been the first time any member of Class VII saw a surprised expression on his face.

"My beloved brother, it's a pleasure to see you again; to think, it's been three months! Where did the time go?" Rufus said to Jusis with a smile on his face.

'For some reason I tend to associate that way of greeting with faking interest but… he sounds sincere'. Rean thought, honestly surprised he sounded like that.

"I wasn't expecting to reunite with you so soon, but I'm delighted to have the opportunity".

"…As am I, you seem well". Jusis answered as his older brother looked at the rest of Group A.

"I take it these are your fellow members of Class VII?"

"Yes, that's correct". Emma answered.

"You know about us?" Rean followed a bit surprised.

"Of course! I've read all about you in my brother's letters". Rufus confirmed. "Where are my manners, though? My name is Rufus Albarea, Jusis is my younger brother". The noble man introduced himself with a smile before it turned into more of a playful grin. "You needn't hide your shock; it would come as no surprise at all to learn that my brother has never once mentioned me, he is, after all, quite easily embarrassed".

"Th-that's not…!" Jusis tried to defend but not finding the right words.

The rest of Group A blinked a few times in surprise at hearing this.

"He's been toyed with". Fie whispered with a small amused smile.

"Totally". Rean agreed with a similar expression.

"I can hardly believe my ears; what happened to the arrogant young upstart we've come to know and… mostly tolerate?" Machias added more confused than amused.

"Ah, but I digress; this is no time for idle chatter". The older Albarea said earning the attention of the students once again. "I came here to escort you to your lodgings for the weekend". As he finished his sentence Jusis widened his eyes in surprise.

"W-Wait, you don't mean-"

"The car is parked outside". Rufus interrupted Jusis with a chuckle. "Welcome to the Verdant City of Bareahard; I hope you enjoy your stay, ladies and gentlemen of Class VII".

With those words Group A followed Rufus and the butler outside the station and got inside the car, an orbal limousine, where he explained the reason why he was at the station to receive them.

"So you're the one responsible for selecting our tasks this time around then". Rean said after the older noble explained.

"Indeed, I selected them on behalf of my father". Rufus confirmed taking out an envelope with Thors' symbol. "Allow me to present you with this". And passing it to Rean.

"Thank you".

"It really is a fascinating coincidence". Jusis' older brother said suddenly. "I never imagined my younger brother would become classmates with the son of Lord Schwarzer". That statement got the Eight Leaves practitioner curious.

"You know my father?"

"Certainly, Baron Teo Schwarzer is an old acquaintance of mine". Rufus answered. "Many years ago, I accompanied him to a falconry competition held in the suburbs of Heimdallr, he taught me much about the practice and its etiquette; why, that must have been ten years ago now… is he doing well these days?"

"Yes, he's quite well". Rean confirmed with a smile. "And still just as fond of hunting as ever".

"Splendid, splendid!" Rufus expressed before letting out a light chuckle.

"…are you aware of his situation?" The son of the baron suddenly asked with an uncharacteristic serious expression.

"Just of what I heard from third parties". Rufus answered, also with a more serious expression than before. "If you want to know my thoughts on the matter, I believe that nor Baron Schwarzer or anyone related to him are to be blamed".

"…I appreciate your kind words". Rean said with a smile as both changed their expressions back to how they were before, leaving the rest of the group in confusion.

"And you must be the son of Governor Regnitz, no?" Rufus addressed Machias, not letting the silence settle in.

"That's correct, I'm surprised you knew". He confirmed calmly.

"Indeed, I encounter him quite often when taking care of official matters in the capital". The noble said. "Though our positions may be different, he has given me excellent advice in the past; I feel it must be fate that you, too, would end up in my younger brother's class; please do try and get along with him".

'I guess Jusis doesn't tell him everything on those letters'. Rean thought, the others probably thinking something similar.

"I-I…" The glasses wearing teen trailed off for a moment. "…I will… consider the possibility with an open mind".

"Haha, wonderful". Rufus said elated before addressing the last members of Group A. "And I would remiss if I were not to acknowledge our two beautiful ladies, no doubt your presence brings a touch of elegance to my younger brother's academic life".

"I'm honored you would say so". Emma answered politely.

"It's nothing like that". Fie answered next with her… 'Fie' tone.

"Can we please stop discussing me?" The younger Albarea pleaded. "And when you say lodgings, you can't possibly be referring to…"

"Need you even ask?" Rufus asked back with a chuckle. "Naturally, you'll all be staying at the Albarea family mansion".

"B-But…" Jusis stuttered apparently trying to find words to say but was interrupted by his brother's laughter.

"I jest, father's instructions were that I should do with you as I wish". He assured making Jusis let out a sigh. "So, considering the circumstances of your visit, I've had a hotel room prepared; that way you will be able to concentrate more easily on your field study, no?"

"…Thank you, I truly appreciate it". Jusis said, after sighing, with a genuine smile which in turn made the others curious.

"I'm afraid we'll need to end our charming repartee here, however". Rufus spoke again. "For I can see your hotel coming into view now". Just as he said that the car stopped in front of a hotel named 'Hotel Esmeralda'.

Group A got out of the car while grabbing their luggage.

"Thank you for the escort". Rean said after everyone grabbed their things.

"And thank you very much for arranging a hotel for us". Emma thanked him next. "We're truly grateful for your kindness".

"Oh, think nothing of it". Rufus assured them. "Under ordinary circumstances, I would have invited you to a banquet this evening but unfortunately, I have business I must attend to in Heimdallr after we've finished here".

"In Heimdallr?" Jusis asked a bit surprised. "Will you be going by airship?"

"Indeed, I'm representing our father". Rufus said before once again grinning playfully. "Don't tell me you're going to be all lonely and blue without me!"

"Surely you jest". The younger Albarea said with a sigh making the rest of Group A sweat drop at the exchange.

"Haha; he may not be the most affable person, but please, do try to extend your kindness to my brother". Rufus said. "May the Goddess' blessings be with you; I pray that your field study activities are fruitful". With that he got back into the limousine and it drove away.

"…so, that was Rufus Albarea; I've heard rumors about him". Machias said after the car was out of sight. "They say he's the ace of the Noble Faction; meeting him in person, it's easy to see where that reputation originated".

"He seemed like a rather charming person, projecting both intelligence and kindness". Emma gave her opinion.

"Yeah; he made a point of showing consideration for my dad, too, even though he's a low-ranking noble". Rean agreed.

"And he effortlessly thrust Jusis into the role of cute little brother". Fie said with an amused smile.

"…Hmph, I would've preferred you NOT to have seen that". Jusis said back to his usual self. "Though I must admit, I wasn't expecting him to leave Bareahard just as we arrived, how unfortunate…"

"What do you mean?" Machias asked him, voicing the other's thoughts.

"…nothing that concerns you; we should check in at the hotel and begin our work". The young noble grabbed his things and marched at the hotel.

"Oh, wait a second". Rean suddenly said making him stop. "Just stay right there". With that he took out a camera from his pocket and walked a few steps away from the group before taking a picture of them in front of the hotel.

"What was that for?" Fie asked.

"Just a hobby of mine". The black haired teen answered with a shrug as Jusis once again started to walk.

"W-wait…" Machias said probably trying to get him to explain but received no answer.

"Come on, let's go drop off our things". Rean said also grabbing his luggage.

"Y-yes, that sounds like a good idea". Emma agreed nervously. "Though the thought of actually staying in a hotel this high class is kind of… intimidating".

"Off we go". The youngest member of the group said, clearly not sharing the class president's nervousness, as everyone grabbed their things and went inside.

Inside the hotel, Group A was received by the General Manager along with a butler and a maid.

"It is truly an honor that our humble establishment should have the opportunity to greet a member of the esteemed duke's-"

"Spare me the formalities". Jusis interrupted the older man. "We came here to drop off our belongings, after which point we will be leaving again immediately, please show us to our rooms".

"As you wish". The manager answered apparently not bothered, either that or hiding it really well. "If you'll allow me to escort you to the wester wing, then, we've a fine suite prepared for you; we have individual rooms reserved for each of your classmates as well".

"Wait". The son of Duke Albarea said clearly annoyed. "I believe I told you before that we're here solely for our studies, this excessive hospitality is neither required nor appreciated".

"B-but, Lord Jusis, I must insist-"

"Don't make me repeat myself!" He once again interrupted. "We require only two rooms: one for the boys and one for the girls". He turned to the rest of his group to ask. "Will that be okay with you all?"

"That works for me". Rean answered. 'At least we're not in the same room as the girls this time'.

"It's more than enough". Emma agreed.

"It's fine". As did Fie.

"Hmph, of course; we're students, we should be treated as such". Machias answered last.

.

.

After that they were shown to their rooms and left their things before getting together to check the field study tasks.

"One request from a noble, followed by one from an artisan". Emma said after Rean read the requests for everyone. "That should certainly keep thins interesting".

"Yeah, they seem to have struck the perfect balance here". Rean agreed.

"The monster one sounds irritating". Fie commented.

"What do they mean by 'report to Aurochs Fort' on this one?" Machias asked confused by that part of the request.

"Aurochs Fort sits on the opposite side of Aurochs Canyon". Jusis began to answer. "It's a provincial army base originally built in the Middle Ages, the request must have come from there".

"…sounds like trouble to me". The shotgun user gave his opinion.

"We should probably save that one for last, just to be on the safe side". The Eight Leaves practitioner suggested.

"I'd advise that regardless, the path through the canyon is long and treacherous". The other sword user answered him. "We should complete our other tasks before we venture out that way, lest we run out of time".

"Yes, let's do that".

"Fine by me". Emma and Fie agreed.

"Hmph, I have no objections either". Machias added.

"All right, then; let's get started!" The Eight Leaves practitioner said confidently. "I'm sure Group B is working hard on their own tasks as we speak, and we can't let them beat us". Part of that statement was to remind Jusis and Machias about the truce. "So let's give this our all!"

"Right!" Emma answered with similar enthusiasm.

"…'Kay". Fie answered next with her signature bored tone.

"Of course". Machias confirmed

"I give you my word". Followed by Jusis.

BLOOPER: Takes place when Rean asked Fie to watch over him while taking a nap

As Rean laid at the tree taking his nap a certain pink haired student silently approached him with a marker on her hand and a grin on her face.

'Told you, you shouldn't have left yourself open with me around'. Vivi thought moving closer and about to write in the swordsman's face… when suddenly her marker disappeared. "Eh?"

She looked around and saw that the silver haired member of the club had it in her hand as she walked away.

'Oh, she's good'. Vivi admitted before taking another marker from her pocket. 'But I'm better'. She once again tried to write only for her marker to once again disappear. 'You're kidding me?!' She yelled in her mind as she saw the two markers on Fie's hands. 'Well played but I don't give up that easily'.

She went to the main building to get some paint and brushes from her sister and went back but keeping her distance from the gardening club.

'This time for sure'. She thought getting paint in one of the brushes and aiming towards Rean before throwing it in an angle that would just paint him and pass him instead of fully hitting him.

But it never did as the brush was intercepted by a rock and fell to the ground without reaching its target.

Vivi didn't need to look to know who that was but decided to keep trying.

.

.

"Rean, school is about to close". Fie said to the swordsman while shaking him a bit.

"Oh, thanks Fie". He answered with a yawn and getting up as they started to walk to the entrance when he noticed someone in the ground face down. "Are you okay Vivi?"

"I need to prank someone, I need to prank someone". She repeated with a muffled voice due to the ground.

"Don't worry, she'll be fine". Fie said puling from his arm as they walked away.

When they were near the entrance.

BOOM

"What was that?!" Rean asked in a panic as the two turned around and saw smoke rising from the direction of the Gardening club.

.

In said club a student on her feet covered in dust and with her hair standing up was coughing.

"I said I need to prank someone". Vivi stated before falling face up to the ground.

Chapter Text

After Group A did took a quick tour of the important places in Bareahard, including a visit to the local guardhouse where Jusis called out to the soldiers on guard about what happened in Celdic not that 'he expects that to have any effect whatsoever' as he put it, they actually started to go see their clients about the requests.

First on the list was the one made by a noble that said they could find him in one of the outside tables of a restaurant in front of their hotel.

There were only two young man there so once they approached them to ask what they wanted exactly one started to tell how he had selected the tasks instead of his father at the request of Rufus, apparently they were planning on dragging their conversation till the friend could guess what the request was, since when Rean tried to ask about it they started to say something about how commoners should wait for those superior to finish their conversation… of course that attitude changed quickly when they saw Jusis, that got them to explain what the request involved.

Apparently they want some bath salt that you can find near the Aurochs Fort Group A needs to go to in order to report about the monster extermination, Jusis mentioned that it was rather difficult due to this and the young noble offered to change it but he said it wasn't necessary.

With that out of the way they then made their way to Artisans' Street to see about the other request in a place called Tuner's Jewelers.

"So what you're saying is, any minute now…" A client was talking with the clerk.

"Indeed, we shouldn't have long to wait". He answered.

"Oh, it looks like he's with a customer right now". Rean stated the obvious.

"What should we do? Should we return later?" Emma asked, just then the clerk noticed them.

"Judging by the uniform, you're… Ah, and I see Lord Jusis is with you, too!" The clerk exclaimed. "Welcome to our store, have you come regarding the field study request?"

"We have". Jusis confirmed. "But I'd ask that you please refrain from giving us any special treatment on my account, if our timing is inconvenient for you, we're quite amenable to returning at a later hour".

"No, no, it's the opposite, in fact!" The clerk assured him. "The name is Bruc and this is Bengt, we were just discussing you, as it happens".

"All right, then". The blond noble answered.

"Wait, you were 'discussing us'?" Rean asked.

"Of course, if you'd allow me to explain; Bengt here is a tourist currently staying here in Bareahard, he's the one responsible for the request that brought you here".

"S-See, I… I'm going to be getting married in the near future". Bengt said with a blush. "And I came here to inquire about having a wedding ring made, the artisans of Bareahard are renowned far and wide for their skill with gem processing, so it seemed the ideal choice".

"Hmm, so you've made what I presume to be a substantial journey, in search of the perfect ring". Jusis commented.

"It is a wonderfully romantic thing to do, isn't it?" Emma said with a giggle.

"There's no denying the quality of the jewels one can procure here, but…" Machias trailed off.

"They don't come cheap". Fie finished for him.

"That' exactly right, unfortunately". Bengt agreed with a sigh. "Buying one of the local gemstones on my income isn't… very plausible and a septium ring, especially, is out of the question". He explained. "I quickly realized how impulsive I'd been and had almost given up…"

'There is a 'but' coming'.

"…but then I consulted with Bruc here on whether or not I had any chance of finding a good deal, and he gave me a really good idea".

Group A turned to the clerk for him to continue the explanation.

"That's right; a precious stone might be out of his budget but there are stones just as beautiful that are a whole lot cheaper". Bruc elaborated. "'Semi precious stones' if you will, the name's self-explanatory; I suggested we make a ring for him using one, specifically, a gem known as 'Dryad's Tear'".

"Hmm… I'm not familiar with that one". Jusis said after thinking for a moment.

"I think I may have heard of it, actually". Emma followed. "It's made from a very particular tree sap that hardens like stone after being exposed to air for a long time and it has a translucent shine to it that people say is easily the equal of septium".

"That's the one!" Bruc confirmed happily. "I'm surprised you know so much about it".

"Guess you're an expert on jewels as well, huh?"

"That's our Emma". Rean and Fie complimented.

"It's just a personal interest of mine". The bespectacled girl answered with a shy chuckle.

"So does that mean the reason you called us here is to find a Dryad's Tear?" The class vice president asked, mostly for confirmation.

"Exactly". The clerk answered. "I'd like you to collect one of these Dryad's Tears for my client; fortunately for you, and us, many of the trees that the tears can be harvested from grow on the North Kreuzen Highway, that been said, it may only qualify as semi-precious but it's still a pretty rare gem so finding one might not be an easy task".

"Well… then I suppose we'll just have to buckle down and look!" Rean said with determination.

"It may not be quite the challenge our dear friend here has made it out to be, you know!" Someone looking at one of the jewels near the counter said joining the conversation.

He is a man, probably around his thirties, with violet hair tied in a ponytail and wearing a white noble attire with a purple scarf and a white cape.

"The innocent wood nymph's tear that you seek… how would you respond if I were to say that I saw one with my own eyes mere moments ago?"

Of course it looked weird that some guy just suddenly talked to them but none of the Group A members seemed to know him, including Jusis.

"Haha; gracious, how terribly impolite of me not to introduce myself before speaking!" The noble-looking man did an exaggerated bow before introducing himself. "My name is Baron Blueblanc, it's a true pleasure to make you acquaintance; from paintings, sculptures, and the finest of arts to the most delicately detailed crafts I am a connoisseur and lover of beauty, craftsmanship and artistry in all their many splendid forms".

"I-I see". The Eight Leaves practitioner answered forcing a polite smile due to the… 'eccentric' way he made his introduction.

"But that's enough about myself! I hear you're seeking a Dryad's Tear?"

"Y-yes, that's right". Machias answered him.

"You say you saw one 'moments ago'?" Emma asked him. "Are you certain?"

"My dear lady, I would never dream of lying about matters of beauty!" The baron answered. "I beheld the light which you seek on the northern highway, of that I am most certain, and yet I must confess that my knowledge of the area is not so great that I would be able to share its exact location… though perhaps that's the way it should be". He continued. "After all, a brilliant light has true meaning only when one grasps it with his own two hands".

"Y-you don't say…" The shotgun user answered a bit baffled.

"Guy's manner of speech is irritating". Fie whispered so the baron wouldn't hear.

"Hmph, so is the content of his words". Jusis agreed.

"Now, now! Let's hear him out". Emma proposed with a shy chuckle.

"Umm… well, we're certainly appreciative of the information". Rean gave his gratitude to the man. "May I ask why you're telling us all of this, though?"

"Haha, perhaps it's the spirit of inquisitiveness that drives you to seek a beauty mere mira cannot buy; it moves me so, and being the generous man that I am, I deigned to extend an olive branch". Blueblanc answered. "Is that… sufficient enough reason for you?"

"S-sure…?" The swordsman trailed off.

"Well, we'll know soon enough if he's telling the truth". Fie commented.

"Yes, we need to begin our search". Jusis agreed. "We can choose to follow his lead… unspecific as it may be… or disregard it entirely".

"I-I think our chances are about equal either way".

With that Group A left the store to go and look for the gem.

At the North Kreuzen Highway.

They started a bit slow with the monsters here since Rean wasn't used to fight alongside the other members of the group and because Jusis and Machias still refused to form a combat link with each other; after the first few skirmishes they picked up the pace and could defeat the monsters with relative ease, any wounds they got were treated by Emma's arts or with the first aid kit she carried around on a bag and, although to a lesser extent, Machias's shotgun thanks to one of its capabilities and eventually…

"It's so pretty". Rean said looking at what looked to be the Dryad's Tear stuck in a tree.

"I'd say this is it". Emma commented.

"All right, let's see if we can remove it without causing any damage". The Eight Leaves practitioner carefully started to move the gem and it came off with him holding it between his index and thumb.

"You can see right through it". Fie said looking at the gem.

"Its radiance truly is the equal of septium, just as the rumors said". Jusis admitted.

"Yes, I'm certain this will make for an exquisite ring". The class president agreed.

"Haha, I can hardly wait to see the expression on Bengt's face when we show it to him". Machias expressed. "Although this does mean that, that baron was telling the truth".

"Yeah and we still have no idea why he went out of his way to tell us". Rean thought out loud. "Jusis, any chance he is someone your father knows?"

"That's unlikely; my father rarely interacts with nobles other than those of the Four Great Houses". The son of Duke Albarea answered. "If anything, I would think it's more likely that he recognized me and thought that by helping us he could gain some favor from the Albareas".

"Hmph, so a noble is a noble after all then". The shotgun user said with a scowl.

"Well, it doesn't really matter; we got what we came for". The black haired member of Group A quickly said so that conversation would stop.

"Yup, time to go". The gun-sword user added as she started to walk.

"Let's go give this to Bengt, then". Emma supported with a smile.

In the way back a small convoy of armored vehicles passed them, Jusis mentioned that they're likely from Celdic and are joining in with the main unit in Bareahard and Fie said that the ones that weren't tanks were the latest model of light armored transport from Reinford earning a bit of curiosity from Emma who mentioned how she seems to know a lot about that.

Either way, they needed to get going.

As soon as they entered the city again two kids seemed to recognize Jusis, apparently they knew each other somehow and the blond noble warned them not to run onto the road and to watch out for cars; that earned a few surprised quips from the rest of Group A but they let it go.

After making their way back to Artisans' street they walked inside Tuner's Jewelers to give them the good news.

"Ah, you're back". Bruc said once they approached the counter with a rather gloomy expression.

"Umm… is something wrong?" Rean asked confused by the long faces.

"Well…" Bruc trailed off. "Could you… give us the item?"

'Something's weird here'. "Sure, here". The fuchsia eyed teen answered handing over the Dryad's Tear.

"Thank you". Although he said that, he didn't sound happy.

"What is taking so long?!" A haughty voice half yelled impatiently. "If you have what I asked for, hurry up and give it to me!"

"Y-yes, of course! At once!" Bruc answered hurriedly.

"Wh-what's going on?" Emma asked confused.

"Honestly, we don't have all day!" A noble man accompanied by a maid said. "This is why you commoners never get anywhere in life!"

"Here it is, Count Gorti". Bruc presented the Dryad's Tear to him.

"So, this is what it looks like". The count said examining the gem.

"I can confirm that this is a genuine Dryad's Tear". The maid accompanying the count said. "I imagine it will be a bit hard, but as it is nothing more than petrified sap, you should be able to consume it without worry".

"…consume?" Fie whispered.

"W-we had to have heard that wrong…" Rean trailed off, hoping that was the case.

"Hmm… all right, then". And with those words the count placed the Dryad's Tear in his mouth and started to bite it.

"Wha…?!"

"Seriously?!" Rean and Emma wondered to themselves not believing their eyes.

"What are you doing?!" Machias on the other hand directed his question to the count who apparently told his maid to give him water because that's what she did after some muffled words and finally swallowing the gem.

"…Scum". Fie whispered with disdain.

"H-how did THIS come about?!" The orbal staff user asked still in disbelief.

All the while Machias seemed to be trying really hard to hold his anger, and failing at it.

'Not stopping you this time Machias, I have a few words I'd like to say once you're done too'. Rean thought angrily.

"What the HELL do you think you're doing?!"

"…You there, commoner". The count said with contempt. "You might want to watch your tone when addressing someone of higher rank than yourself!" The only answer from the green haired teen was an angry growl knowing that there was little he could do in this situation. "Hmph; I shall be generous and let it pass this once but you would do well to mind your manners in the future".

'Self-control Rean, self-control'. The Eight Leaves practitioner repeated in his head.

"If you were to truly anger me, your life could be cut short, very short indeed". Gorti added with a smirk.

"I think you're the one who ought to mind his manners". Jusis said with an annoyed sigh.

"What was that?!" The count had apparently not realized Jusis was with them when he said this because when he did. "…L-L-L-Lord Jusis?!" He yelled in panic. "Wh-wh-what are you doing in a place like this?!"

"That does not concern you". The young noble answered with a neutral expression before it turned to an annoyed one. "However, we went to great pains to find a Dryad's Tear for that man there". He pointed towards Bengt with his head. "And I am most interested in hearing what, exactly, made you feel you had the right to consume it". By the time he finished talking the count was sweating nervously.

"B-but, Lord Jusis… I-I legally purchased that stone from him! I have done nothing improper here!" Gorty defended himself.

"…is what this man says true?" Jusis asked Bengt.

"Y-yes, it is". The tourist answered with a stutter. "He agreed that he would give me a sum of mira in exchange for the tear".

"See? So that stone was my property, which meant I could do with it whatever I wished!" The noble man added to his defense.

"But… why would you want to eat it?" Emma asked confused.

"The Dryad's Tear is used in Eastern herbal medicine, as it is said to possess a number of useful properties". The maid of the Count explained.

"Herbal medicine?" Machias asked, apparently not having heard the term before.

"A popular variety of alternative medicine practiced in the Eastern lands". Rean explained.

"What 'useful properties'?" Fie asked next.

"Nutritional supplementation, mostly, but there are those who believe it can also prevent the effects of aging".

"Prevent… aging?" The class president repeated.

"Utterly ludicrous". Jusis gave his opinion.

"B-be that as it may, it is my prerogative!" The count answered, clearly nervous. "And now that the deed is done, I have no reason to remain here any longer". He looked at the superior noble. "Lord Jusis, if you would permit it…"

"…Fine, please leave".

"I am deeply grateful, if you will excuse us, then".

"We beg your pardon". And with that the count and his maid left.

.

"I'm… sorry for causing a scene". Machias apologized.

"Hmph, ineffective at controlling your temper as ever, I see" Jusis taunted.

"To be fair, this time it was justified". Rean commented.

"…True". The other swordsman conceded.

"No, I should be the one to apologize". Bengt said. "I'm sorry for making you watch that without a word of explanation beforehand; especially after all the trouble you went through to get it for me".

"So… is it true? Did the count purchase it from you?" The Eight Leaves practitioner asked just to be sure.

"Oh, yes, that was completely true". Bengt confirmed, clearly unhappy with the result. "Everything was on the level… though honestly, considering he's a noble -and a count, at that- I couldn't possibly have refused; the situation may be changing for the better in Heimdallr overall but deference to those of higher stature is still the reality in areas where the chancellor's influence doesn't reach".

"I thought it might be something like that". Machias thought out loud.

"As for the ring, I'm going to use the mira the count gave me as a deposit and buy one locally; I'm really sorry for putting you through all of this".

"It's okay, I hope your future wife likes it". Rean assured him.

"Thank you, I'll need to start making my way to the station now; I don't want to miss the train, goodbye everyone". And with that he left.

"Haha; I was observing, curious as to what manner of compelling drama might unfold". Baron Blueblanc said out of nowhere, Group A didn't even notice he was there. "But alas, all I witnessed was that farce!" He said angrily.

'…how long has he been here?'

"I heard from the fine gentleman who works at this establishment that you're students here for a field study, no?" The baron asked. "I hope you'll forgive me for saying so, but I believe it is these setbacks in life which make it truly beautiful to be alive; that comedy of errors may have been tough to endure, but your resultant struggle against injustice was… simply breathtaking".

"Ex…cuse me?" Rean asked.

"However, alas! I must bid you adieu, for my search can never rest ere the ultimate beauty is unearthed; I do pray we'll have the opportunity to meet again, until such time, fare thee well, students!" With one last exaggerated bow Blueblanc left.

After a short conversation with Bruc regarding what happens with the request now, the clerk convinced them that what happened was not their fault and assured them that the request was completed successfully; with their business finished they left the store.

"That was…" Emma trailed off trying to find the right words.

"It left a bad taste in my mouth". Rean said taking a deep breath. "But we're still not finished; there is that monster extermination request and getting the salt baths".

"True, we should put this event in the back of our minds and go to the canyon". Jusis recommended.

"I really hate nobles". Machias said, more to himself than the others, through gritted teeth before starting to walk.

"Let's go". Fie said as they followed the class vice-president.

The Aurochs Canyon path was, as the name stated, mainly a path going from the city to the fort; it had several lamps to keep monsters away and everything but the path was covered with grass, some trees and rocks.

There were also a few bridges built several feet above the path that, according to Jusis, have been there for several hundred years.

Since their request was to slay the monster and then they would have to report to the fort, everyone agreed that the best way to do this would be to find and deal with the monster first and then go report it; not to mention find the salt baths.

'Autumn Leaf Cutter'. Rean said in his mind as he finished the last of a group of monsters the group ran into.

"Is everyone okay?" Emma asked ready to use healing arts if necessary.

"I'm good". The Eight Leaves practitioner answered.

"I'm fine". Followed by Fie.

"Me too". Machias said third.

"As am I". And finally Jusis. "Let's keep going". He sheathed his sword at the same time he took the lead and continued to guide the group.

"Hmm… maybe it's just me but doesn't it look like Machias is trying to distance himself from Jusis?" Emma asked to Rean and Fie who were walking beside her while Machias was staying at the back of the group and Jusis still at the front.

"He's probably still thinking about the incident with that count and this is the result". Rean answered her.

"That's likely the reason". Fie supported. "Not that I blame him, the guy was scum".

"Agreed". The black haired teen said.

"He was really unpleasant". Emma supported.

"Sadly, a lot of nobles share the 'I'm superior, bow to my every whim' attitude". Rean said imitating the tone that count used. "Machias isn't entirely wrong in that regard".

"…seems like you're speaking from experience". The gun-sword user pointed out.

"I have interacted with some nobles before coming to Thors… they weren't exactly 'pleasant'".

Both girls hummed at that.

.

.

After fighting some more mobs they finally found the monster they were looking for in a cliff that they managed to reach using a somewhat hidden path.

The 'Fate Spinner', as the request had named it, is a crustacean looking monster standing on its legs that are bowed backwards with two claws that act as its entire arms, a mouth that is always showing its teeth and two horns that extend from where the neck joins the head and extend a bit further from its mouth; its head is elongated with four pairs of eyes and two more horns that stick out from it upwards, aside from all this both the backside of the claws and the front of the legs from the knee up are covered by spikes.

"There it is". Rean said as the group stood at some distance from it to avoid been detected.

"I-it does look pretty strong". Emma commented a bit nervously.

"Yeah, might put up a fight". Fie agreed with her characteristically bored expression.

"…Hey". Jusis called out to Machias.

"I know". The shotgun user answered. "We need to form a proper combat link already, we won't fail this time".

"You can do it". The black haired member of the group encouraged.

"Rean, put us on the front line, we need to give this every possible opportunity to work".

"We'll show you how it's done!" Machias and Jusis stated ready to fight the monster.

"Machias, Jusis…" The class president trailed off with a smile thinking that they finally stopped their fight; Fie, on the other hand, remained sceptic on the matter.

"…All right, we're counting on you; we'll start the battle as soon as everyone's ready". The swordsman agreed. 'But wait… why were they asking me, specifically, to put them in the front line?' He decided to leave that question for another time.

After a few final preparations they challenged the monster with Machias and Jusis taking point and as they had said they managed to form a combat link with one another.

While Jusis charged in to get in close Machias kept shooting at the monster with his shotgun, each shot dazing the monster for a second giving the noble enough time to start attacking with his sword.

In the meantime Fie circled around to get behind the Fate Spinner and started to shoot the same as Machias while Emma prepared one of her offensive arts and Rean stood near the other two males of the group ready to give them a hand as soon as a chance presented itself.

Jusis kept a barrage of attacks by stabbing and slashing at the creatures, moving just before Machias shot at the spot he had previously struck.

'We're doing well'. Machias thought firing a break shot at one of the claws making the armor-like skin crack and allowing the blond noble to pierce it. 'Even if he is a noble-' Just as soon as that word crossed his mind a certain memory from his past came back to him.

Machias Regnitz doesn't consider himself to be unreasonable, if an argument were to break out between him and another person then he would try to see the things from the other's point of view before deciding they were right or wrong, however, nobles were a different story.

He has met some nobles because of his father's position, of course he rarely actually interacted with any of them but that doesn't mean he never overheard some of the conversations his father had or some of the… 'less than noble' (no pun intended) offers they gave him; when one of those was even hinted his father would usually tell them to leave immediately.

Not all of them were like that, some actually seemed to be on his father and, by extension, the chancellor's side; but even so…

'Nice shot'. Jusis praised in his mind as the armor in the monster's claw cracked and he thrusted his sword earning a roar of pain from it. 'He does have good aim, I'll give him that'. Just as he thought that he removed his sword and aimed for one of the legs. 'For all the things he says…' As that thought came to mind he remembered his many 'conversations' with the green haired teen.

Jusis Albarea wasn't someone to hold petty grudges or abuse his authority as a noble, that's something he firmly believed was true and was learned by watching his older brother, that been said, he wasn't a machine; even if he didn't show it the numerous insults Machias had thrown, not only against him but, against the nobility as a whole did affect him.

He knew not all of them were without basis, due to his own circumstances he knew very well there were nobles that were less than scrupulous but even so…

'That guy…'

'That person…'

'I won't accept him!' Their opposite values made them reject the other's way of thinking and the link that they were using till now broke.

'Damn it!' Jusis thought noticing the broken link and quickly jumping back to avoid one of the monster's claws that until now were being held at bay by Machias shooting at them and forcing them to miss their target.

While the shotgun user tried to move and get a good angle to shoot at the monster since the blond noble was now standing in his way.

Noticing the situation, Rean and Fie quickly charged in to get the Fate Spinner's attention at the same time they made a combat link between them and Emma who shot one of her arts, a white light that flew in a straight line covering everything from its starting point to the monster it hit and missing Rean by a hair's breadth, him moving out of the way due to the combat link allowing him to predict the path the beam would take.

Partially dazed due to the orbal staff user's attack, the monster flailed its claws around itself trying to hit some of the members of Group A; Rean quickly jumped back to avoid it and prepared to use the variation of the fourth form, 'Arc slash', to send the attack he used on the second floor of the schoolhouse.

Fie, on the other hand, kept pushing forwards cutting the monster while continually dodging the claws, maybe if the monster was particularly targeting her it would be troublesome but if it just flailed around hoping to hit something she could dodge it; with every dodge she got one or two slashes in while Rean, after shooting the blue arc-shaped energy with a quick-draw, also closed in and slashed away at it after it tried to focus Fie.

Both of them moved out of the way when Emma shot the same white beam again and the Fate Spinner fell to the ground.

"…That was rough". The Eight Leaves practitioner said getting his breath back and sheathing his sword.

"Yeah, but we still won". Emma answered with relief.

"…Only just". Fie commented.

Just as they said this the 'prideful warriors' of Class VII put their weapons away and.

"What the hell is wrong with you, Jusis Albarea?!" Machias yelled at the top of his lungs. "Why did you sever the link?!"

"Don't even think of trying to place the blame on me, Machias Regnitz!" Jusis answered, although not with the same volume, but still louder than how he usually responds to the shotgun user. "YOU were the one who severed the link!" And just like that both approached the other and held each other from the neck of their shirts.

"You said you'd cooperate, but you just couldn't do it, could you? You couldn't bring yourself to stoop to the same level as a commoner like me!" The son of Governor Regnitz said angrily. "You nobles truly are beyond redemption; you're utterly hopeless, through and through!"

"You asinine little…!" The son of Duke Albarea started to say before finishing, with possibly the louder volume any of the members of Class VII ever heard from him. "Why can't you see that all of this is born from your own prejudice and narrow-mindedness?!"

"That's ENOUGH!" Rean yelled.

"Please, calm down!" Emma also tried to reach to them.

"Stay out of this! This is our problem!" Machias yelled back, not stopping his glare against the blond noble.

"Why don't we settle this once and for all? Let me show you how much better than you I really am!" Jusis said ready to punch him at a moment's notice.

"…hey". Rean said to the tow members of Group A that weren't about to hit each other. "We've been patient with them, right?" He asked. "We gave them time and tried to let them sort out their differences".

"Yes". Fie answered, clearly annoyed by the situation.

"I believe so".

"I think the same but you know, some time ago I was talking with Elliot and Gaius about what we could do to get them to stop their constant fights, I suggested we lock them in a room and don't let them out till they sort it out". Before they could answer to that Rean continued. "Of course I was joking at the time… but not now". With that the swordsman started to walk towards the two males. 'We're going back to Bareahard and I'm locking them up in our room till they can stop thi-'. He stopped that line of thought immediately when he noticed the Fate Spinner getting up and suddenly pouncing towards Machias and Jusis. 'Crap!' Reacting as fast as he could he pushed the two out of the way and attempted to draw his sword… but wasn't fast enough.

As the monster Group A thought dead came down from its jump one of its claws pierced Rean's right shoulder from behind and forced him to his knees before retracting it.

"Aaagh". The black haired teen could only make that noise due to the pain as he felt blood starting to come out of his wound.

"R-Rean?!" Emma exclaimed, the situation catching her by surprise.

While Fie, apparently having noticed the monster's movement around the same time as Rean since she already had her weapons out and jumped on the back of the monster, dealt the finishing blow burying her gun-swords into the back of the monster's head and pulling the trigger, this time definitely killing it as she jumped down before it touched the ground.

"…nice work". Rean congratulated weakly still on his knees and holding his wound with his left hand.

"R-Rean! Are you alright?!" The class president asked worriedly as Fie joined the others.

"H-Hey…" Machias trailed off.

"…are you injured?" Jusis finished for him.

"…yeah, but I'll live". Rean said with a pained expression on his face. "I was sure we'd killed it, though! Guess I shouldn't have let my guard down…"

"…I shouldn't have either but it's down for good this time". Fie assured him.

"I should administer first aid on that wound; I'll need you to take off your jacket". Emma said kneeling to see the wound on the teen's shoulder.

"Got it". He answered using his left arm to unbutton it, once he was done he started to move his left arm so he could grab the left sleeve with his hand and pull.

"Here". Fie said grabbing said sleeve.

"Thanks". Rean answered moving to take out his left arm; the silver haired girl then helped him take out the other arm so he wouldn't need to move it and Emma started to apply the first aid.

.

.

"That feels much better". The swordsman said after the orbal staff user finished the treatment. "Thanks, Emma".

"You're welcome". The girl answered with a giggle. "I'm happy I was able to put what we learned from Instructor Beatrix's classes to good use".

"That was last week, right?" Fie joined the conversation while standing near the two in case another monster appeared and holding Rean's jacket.

"I'm sorry, Rean, I…" Machias once again trailed off, having spent the whole time Emma took treating Rean trying to come up with some way to apologize.

"…it's our fault that you were injured". Jusis admitted guiltily.

"Oh, don't worry about it". The fuchsia eyed teen assured them. "It wouldn't have happened if I'd been paying more attention, I'm just glad neither of you were hurt". If those words would have come out from any other member of Class VII everyone would have thought they were just saying it to make them feel better but when it came from Rean… it sounded sincere, which in turn made it weird since it wouldn't be out of place for the one injured to recriminate the ones responsible for it.

"…Why are you so…?" 'Selfless' was the word the green haired vice president was looking for but he couldn't bring himself to finish the question.

"You should rest that shoulder for a while". Fie recommended.

"Yes, absolutely!" The purple haired girl supported. "I'd strongly recommend you fall back from the front line for the time being".

"Thanks, I will". The swordsman agreed, knowing that in his current state he would be more of a liability than anything in direct combat. "All right, let's get moving; we need to tell the provincial army about the monster we just defeated". He said standing up.

"Yeah, I suppose it's not a done deal until we file our report". The glasses wearing male agreed.

"…Aurochs Fort isn't much farther across the canyon". Jusis informed. "We may need to hurry if we wish to be back in Bareahard before nightfall, however".

"Let's go". Fie said handing Rean his jacket back.

"…Hey, Rean?" Emma called out once the other three members had taken a few steps away.

"Hmm? What is it?"

"O-oh, I just… uhhh…" Not finishing her sentence the orbal staff user placed her hands near the wound in Rean's shoulder and whispered something that the black haired teen couldn't make out.

"What… what did you just do?"

"Nothing". Emma answered innocently. "I just wanted to check on your bandage". She patted the bandage a few times as to emphasize her point. "…good, good; it seems fine but please try your best to keep your shoulder firm; the less it moves, the better; we don't want your injury getting worse, now!"

"O-Okay". Rean answered. 'I could swear I felt something… warm flowing into my body'. The teen thought a bit confused. 'Maybe I'm just imagining things; I don't think I lost THAT much blood, though'.

After that they caught up to the rest of Group A and continued to make their way towards the fort.

.

.

They needed to change their formation due to Rean's injury, now Jusis and Machias were at the front, Fie in the middle so she can both give covering fire or join at close range if necessary and Rean and Emma at the back, both supporting the others with arts.

"Arts aren't really my thing". Rean said after they just finished fending off a group of monsters.

"It's the only way you can participate in battle for now". Emma said back. "You can't go to the front with your injury".

"I know, I won't do that, I was just saying".

"It's true, though, you're better with your sword". Fie gave her opinion as Machias and Jusis lead the group.

"That's true". The class president agreed. "I-I mean, it's not that you're not doing a good job-"

"Emma relax, I know you didn't mean anything bad by it". The injured swordsman assured her before Jusis and Machias suddenly stopped and turned around.

"…How's your injury?" The blond noble asked.

"If… if it still hurts, we can slow down a bit…" The shotgun user offered.

"It's no big deal, honest!" Rean assured them with a light-hearted chuckle. "It's stopped bleeding and it doesn't even hurt much anymore, Emma's first aid skills really are top-notch". He praised.

"Oh, not at all". Emma answered a bit embarrassed.

"…Well, if you're sure". The green haired member of Group A said worriedly.

"If you truly are in pain, there's no shame in admitting it". The youngest son of the Albarea household said.

"Thanks, Jusis, but really I feel very little pain… it's kind of incredible". The injured member then turned to the one who treated him. "Did you rub some kind of special ointment or something, Emma?"

"N-no, I didn't…" She started only to quickly correct herself. "I-I mean, yes, I did! I used a special kind of medicine I brought with me from back home; my grandmother made it by combining a number of medicinal herbs together, I believe…"

"Oh, really? My old master often used something similar". Rean commented.

"I kind of want to know more about this". Fie said curiously.

"O-Oh, no, there's nothing more to tell! I don't know the… recipe or anything".

'…I kind of ignored it at first but… why do you seem so flustered?' Rean thought.

"Actually, I was more impressed with you, Fie! You made defeating that monster look really easy!" The bespectacled girl said trying to change the subject.

"Me?" The silver haired girl asked a bit surprised.

"Now that you mention it…" The Eight Leaves practitioner trailed off remembering some of the feats he has seen from her.

"You were… unnaturally agile". Jusis commented.

"And that's not the first time you've saves us in battle, either". Machias added. "Are you certain you're two years younger than us?"

"Yup". The yellow eyed girl confirmed. "I was nothing special, I'm just accustomed to combat". She said vaguely while looking away from her classmates.

Although that brought some more questions than answers, it didn't seem like Fie would say anything else so they left the subject there.

BLOOPER

"So, this is what it looks like". The count said examining the gem.

"I can confirm that this is a genuine Dryad's Tear". The maid accompanying the count said. "I imagine it will be a bit hard, but as it is nothing more than petrified sap, you should be able to consume it without worry".

"…consume?" Fie whispered.

"W-we had to have heard that wrong…" Rean trailed off, hoping that was the case.

"…excuse me for a moment". Machias said quickly leaving the store.

'Weird'. Rean thought as the count started to move the Dryad's Tear to his mouth. 'Wait- you have to be kidding me!' By the time he realized what was gonna happen-

"Not so fast!" A green haired teen wearing a red school jacket and black pants backwards and with no glasses exclaimed dramatically. "That doesn't belong to you!"

"Huh? What are you-?" The count started to ask having stopped his hand from eating the gem due to the sudden interruption but never got to finish when the teen ran up to him and did an uppercut while jumping and adding a spin to the hit, knocking the noble out.

"Here!" The teen said handing over the Dryad's Tear to Bengt. "And now I must be off!" With no other words he left.

A few moments later.

"Sorry guys, did I miss something?" Machias asked entering the store while buttoning his school jacket.

"A mysterious stranger just came in and knocked the count out". Bengt said. "I wonder who he is".

'…is he for real?' Rean asked after blinking a few times.

Chapter Text

After making a slight detour in order to get the salt baths, that according to Fie are 'a bit sweet for salt', they finally reached Aurochs Fort.

"Wh-whoa…"

"It's huge…" Machias and Rean said in amazement.

"So this is Aurochs Fort, one of the Kreuzen Provincial Army's premiere bases". Emma said looking at the giant fortress in front of them.

It looked like a giant castle with the entrance been a wooden door that looked big even from a distance, at its left side, if you're watching from the front, was one rectangular tower that stood higher than the rest of the structures and even more to the left was a railway for cargo trains.

"Not how I was expecting it to look". Fie mentioned. "They modified an older fort… a lot".

"Is something wrong, Jusis?" Rean asked the blond noble seeing how he seemed to be speechless.

"No". He quickly answered returning to his poker face expression. "Not at all; let's go and give our report on the monster we defeated".

Machias seemed to want to say something but kept his mouth shut and the group made the final track to the entrance of the fort, they were around halfway there when a train's passed carrying what seemed to be tanks, a lot of tanks.

"I-isn't that…?!" Machias trailed off in worry while Jusis just glared at the train.

"I-It's… a freight train from Bareahard?" The class president asked.

"Looks like it's carrying tanks". The Eight Leaves practitioner noted. "Pretty heavily-armored ones, at that…"

"Those are the latest models from the Reinford Company". The gun-sword user informed them. "They're called 'Achtzehn'".

Without a word Jusis gave one last glare at where the train passed and kept walking.

"H-How…?"

"Come on, we have things to do". Jusis urged ignoring whatever Machias wanted to ask.

"Gah, why does he have to be so…?" The shotgun user trailed off and simply growled in annoyance.

"He's right, though; we really should keep moving". Emma mentioned and once again they started to walk.

.

"Who goes there?" One of the two soldiers on guard duty asked as Group A approached the entrance.

"…Wait, aren't those uniforms…?" The other one trailed off noticing their getup.

"We're members of Thors Military Academy, Class VII". Rean introduced them.

"We completed a monster extermination task on your behalf and have come to give our report". Machias said next.

"Oh, so you're the ones".

"We've been expecting you; you'll forgive my curtness, we just didn't think you'd have someone so… young with you as well".

"Hmph". Was Fie's answer at hearing this.

"Um, so… we were able to defeat the monster in question, do you require a written report, or is verbal confirmation okay?" Emma asked.

"Oh, no, that's fine".

"You were really able to beat that thing, though?"

"Somehow or another, yes". The black haired swordsman confirmed.

"It wasn't easy, but we managed". The class vice president supported.

"Hmm… not bad, not bad at all". One of the soldiers said, apparently a bit surprised. "We probably should've taken care of it ourselves, but it was a pretty dexterous thing, so we just kind of… let it be".

"It wasn't enough to cause any of us any harm, as long as we were in our armored cars when we encountered it". The other soldier answered his partner. "But still, it took a bit of convincing for us to ask a group of students to fight it, as you might imagine".

"I can understand that".

"Hmph; well, it provided a good opportunity for us to test our skills". Emma and Jusis answered.

"…wait… L-Lord Jusis?! Wh-what brings you…?" The soldiers finally recognized Jusis who had stayed somewhat hidden behind Rean and Machias till now. "That uniform! Are you part of this group, then?"

"Correct" He answered taking a step forward. "I've returned to Bareahard as part of a field study for the academy; I'm here as a student, not as a member of the Albarea household; please treat me accordingly, the same as you would treat my classmates".

"A-as you wish".

"As you wish, Lord Jusis!" Both soldiers said straightening their posture.

'But if he asks not to be giving special treatment wouldn't that be special treatment because they're not treating him like usual?' Rean thought before shrugging and leaving that thought alone.

'Looks like even the provincial army won't miss a chance to bend over backwards for him'. Machias said in his mind with annoyance.

"I would like to know, however, about the contents of that train that just passed by here".

"Ah, you saw it? Our provincial army has finally started getting supplied with tanks! Isn't it exciting?" One of the soldiers answered excitedly.

"Armored cars can't hope to compete with tanks in terms of firepower after all and we can't let the Imperial Army be stronger than us forever!" The other one added.

"…I see". The young noble answered with a neutral expression. "The fort appears to have been fortified quite significantly".

"Ah, yes, some rather sizable construction work was carried out just last month, it'll take more than a little fire to damage these walls now!"

"Our anti-air defenses are going to be strengthened in the near future, too; this should soon become a fort we soldiers of the Kreuzen Province can truly be proud of! You can count on that".

"I will". Although he said that, Jusis didn't seem happy about it, he turned around. "And with that, I believe we're done here; we should take our leave".

They all took a short rest in the resting area of the fortress, it was mostly spent in silence with the class vice president constantly glaring at the son of the Albarea household and with nothing else to do they started to make their way back.

.

They didn't even reached the access ramp before Machias stopped Jusis.

"Wait". He said as everyone in Group A stopped. "What is the meaning of this?"

"M-Machias…?" Emma asked confused and a bit worried they would start a 'discussion' again while Jusis simply sighed in annoyance.

"If we were on the border with Crossbell or the Republic, maybe I could understand, but why does the provincial army HERE need state-of-the-art tanks?!" The son of Governor Regnitz demanded. "Not to mention anti-air defenses and countless other fortifications, it's utter madness!"

"He makes a good point". Fie commented impassively.

"…can you truly be so ignorant?" Jusis asked seeming mad… but in a different way than usual. "This is the reality of the present situation within the Empire". For once, Machias simply waited for him to continue. "Tensions between Osborne's Reformist Faction and our Noble Faction grow worse by the day; though admittedly, it's been happening mostly under the surface, away from the eyes of the general populace but this is just one of the many ways that conflict is manifesting itself". After the explanation the green haired teen closed his eyes apparently deep in thought.

"I'd heard rumors, but…" Rean trailed off not wanting to continue that sentence.

"No doubt my father was the one who ordered this fortifications, I have no intention of giving comments of my own on his decision". The blond noble continued. "But if you wish to lodge a complaint, I'm quite happy to listen; so?"

"…No, it's fine". Machias answered. "We should get back to Bareahard".

"Yeah"

"Let's go then". Rean and Fie supported.

.

As they were making their way back a loud siren suddenly started to sound.

"What's that?"

"It seems to be coming from the fort". Machias answered Rean's question as the group looked back at the direction of Aurochs fort.

"Hm?"

"Fie, what's-". Rean stopped mid question as he moved his eyes to where the girl was looking and saw a strange silver humanoid form carrying a child on one of its arms while flying. 'What in the hell- quick, camera!' Reacting as quickly as possible he took out his camera and took a picture of the flying object.

"Wh-what was THAT?!" The class vice president asked in confusion. "Are birds like that common around here?!"

"Imbecile; that was no bird". Jusis answered.

"…Looked like someone was riding on it". The youngest member of Class VII commented.

"Yeah… I think it was a child, actually".

"Wh-what?!"

"Are you certain?"

"Going by build, yeah". Rean answered to Machias and Jusis as they and Emma were now looking at him. "I didn't get a good look at the face, so I can't be one hundred percent sure… but I think so".

"Unbelievable…" Emma trailed off but the conversation was cut short when two tanks appeared from the direction of the fort and stopped besides Group A.

"Lord Jusis!" A soldier said from atop the lid of the tank. "W-were you on your way back to Bareahard?"

"What is all this commotion? What is the meaning of that siren?" The noble demanded to know.

"W-well, you see… moments ago, we became aware of an intruder in Aurochs Fort".

"Y-you don't mean…"

"...the silver… thing that flew past us?" The Class VII president and vice-president thought aloud getting the attention of the soldier.

"Y-you saw it?! Which direction did it go?!"

"It flew off to the southwest mere moments ago". Jusis told them. "At a rather significant speed".

"Damn… if you'll please excuse us!" With no more words the soldier went back inside the tank and both drove off in pursuit.

"They won't catch it". The silver haired girl stated.

"It does seem unlikely". Rean agreed looking at his camera as if he could see the picture he just took, although he needs to reveal it first. "What could that have been, though?"

"That's a very good question". Emma said.

"I never heard of anything been able to fly other than airships!" Machias exclaimed.

Although they still were curious Jusis convinced them that this was a matter for the army and that they should leave it to them, everyone agreed to put it in their reports, though, as it was noteworthy, as Emma put it.

Rean also told them that his shoulder seems to be completely healed, earning some surprised looks from his friends but the only explanation he could give was that Emma's grandmother's medicine seems to be really effective.

They fought a few more mobs in the way back and by near sundown they finally reached Bareahard.

At Bareahard.

After getting back Jusis noticed that the silver flying object doesn't seem to have come to the city since everyone was calm, they did a bee-line towards the noble who asked for the bath salts and delivered them, afterwards they had a bit of free time on their hands.

"Hey Jusis".

"Yes, Rean?"

"Is it allowed to fish on that river that goes through the city?" The black haired swordsman asked.

"I believe so; at least it was last time I was here".

"Great, I know what I'm doing with this little free time". He said smiling. "What about you guys?"

"I was hoping to explore the city a bit more, would you like to come along Fie?" Emma asked her silver haired friend.

"Sure". She answered with a small smile.

"What about you two?"

"I don't have anything in particular I want to do… maybe I'll just go to the hotel and rest". Machias answered first.

"I'll walk around for a while, I'd like to see if there is anything different compared to two months ago". Jusis said second.

"Would you two like to come and fish with me?" Rean asked, earning the stares of the others.

"I'll pass, I'm kind of tired". The class vice president answered adjusting his glasses while looking away.

"…I'll have to decline". The blond noble said next doing the same.

"Suit yourselves; we'll meet up at the hotel before the sun completely goes down, agreed?" Rean asked earning a nod of approval from everyone. "Let's go then".

He did a quick stop at the hotel to grab his fishing rod and baits before walking to a small hallway below the street and near the river.

'Let's see what I can fish here'. He casted the rod and from then it was the waiting game.

'He is strange'. Jusis thought as he watched Rean whistling while walking with his fishing equipment. 'It's not just a matter of been selfless, it's… not my place to comment on it'. With that thought he walked to the entrance of a restaurant in front of the hotel. 'Been a while since I actually visited'. Taking a deep breath he opened the door.

"So where do you want to go?" Fie asked as she followed the class president around.

"I don't know, I thought we could just wander around and see what we find". Emma answered happily.

"Fine by me". The youngest member of Class VII agreed. "By the way do you have any more of that medicine from your grandmother?"

"E-eh? I-I think I may have some more, why?"

"Why are you so flustered by that question?"

"I-I'm not?" Fie gave her a half eyed look as if saying 'you're a terrible liar'.

"Well, if you don't want to talk about it that's fine". The silver haired girl said shrugging. 'It's not like I talk much either'.

The atmosphere got a bit awkward after that conversation, luckily, it didn't last much.

"Oh, hi". Machias greeted the two girls from Group A.

"Hi Machias". Emma greeted back.

"Weren't you going to stay at the hotel?" Fie asked a bit curious.

"I couldn't rest". The shotgun user answered with a shrug. "So~… what have you been up to?"

"Not much".

"We've mostly been walking around, would you like to join us?" The Class VII president offered.

"Thanks, I'll take you up on that".

With that they started to walk around.

.

"Hey, can I ask you something?" Machias asked earning the attention of the two girls, who nodded 'yes'. "Does Rean seem… strange to you?"

"Strange?" Emma asked.

"Yeah like… he is too selfless".

"Yeah". Fie said.

"I don't get it, is it weird that he is selfless?" The blue eyed girl asked a bit confused.

"Emma, you are selfless, he… is too selfless, to the point is strange". The silver haired girl explained. "Take the wound to his shoulder today as an example, Machias and Jusis were responsible but he didn't say anything to them".

"F-Fie, you shouldn't-"

"No, it's true". The shotgun user interrupted. "His wound was our fault, there is no denying that". He admitted shamefully.

"Well… now that you mention it, I guess it may seem that way, but couldn't it be that he is simply a nice person?" Emma offered.

"I guess but it still seems odd". Machias answered.

"He also worries too much, he is always telling me not to sleep outside".

"…no, that's not strange at all". The two glasses wearing teens answered in sync, Fie simply shrugged.

'Well, I guess I should go back after this last one'. Rean thought casting his fishing rod one more time. 'I wonder if I can manage to get those two to stop their fights beyond just a truce'. He wondered trying to come up with a way for the 'prideful warriors' of Class VII to get along.

"Excuse me, is it okay if I fish here?" A man of around Rean's age asked.

"Sure, go right ahead". Rean answered as a fish took the bait and he reeled it in.

"Thank you". The teen said casting his rod.

"I need to go anyway". The black haired swordsman said writing down a note of the fish he caught before letting him go. 'If I'm not eating them there is no need to take them with me'. "Good luck". He wished the other fisherman before leaving.

At the entrance of the hotel.

"Hey guys". Rean greeted, been the last one to get there.

"Hey".

"How was the fishing?" Fie and Emma answered in that order.

"Good, how about you?" He asked the entire group.

"I ended up joining Emma and Fie on their walk around town". Machias answered.

"Nothing of note happened". Jusis said lastly. "Come on, we should leave our things".

Group A started to make his way towards the hotel but before anyone could get in the horn of a car sounded.

"That's… father…" The local noble trailed off quickly walking towards the car that stopped right in front of the hotel.

"What?!" Machias asked in surprise as the window of the rear seat of the car slid down, revealing a man with a moustache, hair the same color as Jusis and wearing a green noble attire similar to Rufus.

"…I'm terribly sorry for not coming to greet you, Father; although I'm here for a short time, I, Jusis, have returned to-"

"Enough". Duke Albarea interrupted his son in a cold tone. "As I informed Rufus, you may do as you wish while you're here, however, you will do nothing that brings shame upon myself, nor upon the Albarea name". He ordered. "Please be ever mindful of your position and what you represent"

"…yes, Father". The son said a bit dejected. "Umm… would it be too much to ask for you to introduce yourself to my classm-?"

"I have no time for pleasantries". The duke interrupted once again. "Should I require anything of you, you will be contacted". With those words the window slid back up and the car drove off… leaving a seemingly gloomy Jusis.

"…what was that all about?"

"F-Fie, that's not really-".

"That was the almighty Duke Albarea, was it?" Machias asked the obvious, shifting the attention from the two girls to himself. "The head of one of the Four Great Houses and the man in charge of this entire province".

"Indeed". The son of the duke confirmed. "And by some strange twist of fate, my father as well".

'…guess they aren't in the best of terms'. Rean thought, noticing his choice of words.

"…I've spoken out of turn, forget I said that". Jusis requested. "Today's workload has made me hungry; shall we return to our rooms, then find something to eat?"

"That sounds good to me". Emma agreed, partially to change the heavy atmosphere.

"I'm starving". Fie confessed.

After a shower and a short rest they all went to a restaurant in front of the hotel and enjoyed their meal in one of the tables outside.

"I hope you enjoy your meal". The chef said happily as he brought the dishes. "It's been a while since you came here"

"Thors' curriculum had me returning earlier than expected". Jusis answered smiling. "And thank you, it looks delicious".

"It is my pleasure, and thank you for your visit earlier; I will leave you to your meal". With those words the chef left.

'Jusis visited earlier here? I guess he didn't eat so…' His thoughts were interrupted by the smell of the food. '…I'll think about it later'.

"The breeze here feels wonderful". Machias commented with a contented sigh.

"The food was delicious, too". Emma complimented the restaurant.

"Agreed". Fie said.

"I can see why this restaurant is popular with the nobles". Rean said before looking at the local noble. "Do you dine here often, Jusis?"

"I do, the chef has been good to me since I was a child, I was practically raised on this food". He answered.

"Hmph, how typical; even in your dining habits, you nobles subsist on unnecessary luxury". The Class VII vice president said before admitting. "…though, I can't deny the quality of the food".

"It wasn't just tasty but…" The silver haired member of the group trailed off, looking for the right word. "…warm, too"

"Yes". The orbal staff user agreed. "For a high-class restaurant, the chef seems to have used a lot of very healthy ingredients". The slightest hint of a smirk found its way to her expression before she added. "Perhaps he's doing his part to ensure Jusis stays in good health".

'I think this is the first time I've seen Emma tease someone'. The Eight Leaves practitioner thought holding back a chuckle.

"…I wouldn't doubt it". Was the only answer the blond noble gave on the matter before a short silence befell them.

"I-I wonder what Group B is doing right now". The green haired shotgun user said to fill the silence.

"Haha, we had that exact same conversation in our group last month, too". Rean answered. "I'm sure they're hard at work over in Sainth-Arkh, probably nothing to worry about".

"It was… Celdic for you last month, right?" The bespectacled girl asked remembering. "So you were thinking of us on the first night?"

"Yeah; after dinner, we were wondering how Group B was getting on". The new member of this group confirmed. "I believe I said something among the lines of 'Jusis and Machias are having a competition to see who can eat the most before it's ruined by them trying to knock each other out' or something like that". After he finished that sentence Fie's eyes widened and she stared at the black haired teen. "What?... No way, were they seriously doing that?!"

"O-of course not!"

"Don't be ridiculous". Machias and Jusis answered in turn.

"Nah, I was just messing with you". Fie answered with a giggle.

"Aww, and here I thought I had some sort of psychic power, I guess this is how the dream ends". Rean said overdramatically. "Jokes aside… dare I ask how it was last month?"

The 'prideful warriors' simply looked away.

"Nowhere near as peacefully as now". The gun-sword user answered. "This is a big improvement".

"I… kind of figured as much". The tachi wielder said.

"We are doing… much better this time, that much is true". Machias admitted.

"And I'm sure our reports will reflect that". Emma commented happily.

"It is an improvement, though I'm not convinced it's good enough". Jusis gave his opinion.

"I-it's not?" The purple-brown haired girl asked in surprise.

"I'm certain Group B gave their absolute best in all of their tasks today but can we honestly say the same? That we could have done no better? And I'm referring not just to the monster encounter, but to the handling of our other tasks as well".

After Jusis finished talking everyone exchanged a look as if wordlessly agreeing with each other that he is right.

"We'll just have to try and make up for it in the day we have left". Rean eventually ended the silence. "Besides, we had the chance to catch sight of a far bigger problem".

"Yes, that's true". Emma agreed as everyone remembered the 'events' that they were witness of, specifically, how the count bought the Dryad's Tear and the tanks going to Aurochs Fort.

"First we find out taxes are raising throughout the province, then we find out the military is being expanded on a grand scale". Machias thought out loud before addressing Jusis. "Don't even try to tell me the two aren't related!"

"I have no intention of denying it but you're only looking at one side of the coin, exactly how many Achtzehn tanks do you think the Imperial Army has under their control?" Jusis asked back.

"W-well…"

"A hundred or two, I'd guess". Fie answered after Machias trailed off.

"Precisely, the Imperial Army's military capabilities are enormous; this country has one of the most powerful armed forces on the continent and roughly seventy percent of it is under the chancellor's control". The noble looked directly at Machias before continuing. "Tell me, how is the Noble Alliance supposed to counter that?"

"So you're suggesting that's why the provincial army needs to bolster its forces?" Emma asked.

"Considering both sides are comprised of Erebonians, it all seems so wasteful" Rean gave his opinion.

When a new voice was heard.

"Ah, the travails of youth! How noble and beautiful they are!" A certain baron they met earlier said.

"Baron Blueblanc, I believe?" Rean asked searching his memory.

"Haha, It's such an honor that you would remember a mere baron!" He answered a bit too happy. "I see you've completed a hard day's work already, how splendid!"

"…yes, nearly". Machias answered; a bit bothered by the baron is overdramatic tone.

"What about you?" Fie asked with half closed eyes.

"Alas, I have yet to be blessed with the fateful encounter I seek; the search for beauty is filled with perils and obstacles… yet that is precisely what makes it all so beautiful!" Blueblanc answered her before moving the fringe on his forehead… and for some reason making sparkles appear.

"Well, I hope you enjoy the rest of your stay". Jusis said politely.

"I most certainly will… though it truly is a pity that the clear air of this verdant city should be tinged, if but faintly, with the scent of steel". The baron said earning a glare from the member of the Albarea household in the table. "I'd heard that Duke Albarea was a man of many interests, but I was unaware he counted playing with fire among them".

'I don't like where this is going'. Everyone at the table thought with different degrees of annoyance.

"I don't condemn it for it, though! For only by playing with fire can one create fireworks; would you not agree, my friends?"

"I don't like your implications".

"And I think this whole line of conversation is… a little inappropriate". The class vice president and president answered him.

"Oh, please do pardon me, young lady! I meant no harm, I assure you" Blueblanc quickly apologized. "I wish you well on your remaining day here; may you reveal to me the beauty I seek by its end!... be it the lovely luster of success or the sad splendor of failure". The baron did an over exaggerated bow before walking away.

"Who does he think he is?" Machias asked with an annoyed growl. "This is why I can't stand nobles!"

"Hmph, I thought you might say that". The court fencing practitioner answered, unimpressed. "If it makes you feel better, though, I have my doubts as to whether that man truly is a noble to begin with".

"What…?"

"His behavior seems so exaggerated…" Emma gave her opinion. "Almost as if he's trying to act like the quintessential noble, like he's… fulfilling the stereotype".

"Yeah, something about him feels off to me, too". Rean chimed in. "But what's even stranger is that he knew we only had one day left here". That sentence surprised the others in the table who did a quick recap in their heads of the interaction they had with the so-called baron-

"Y-you're right!" The shotgun user said.

"…We told him of our field study, but never once did we divulge how long we intended to remain here". Jusis commented while looking at the direction he had left.

"Between him and that silver object… we've been crossing paths with a lot of strange people today". Fie said with a mixture of boredom and curiosity.

In the end they decided not to worry about that since they still needed to finish their work and returned to the hotel to work on their reports.

At night in the boys' hotel room.

'…dammit'. Jusis Albarea thought with a sigh failing to keep his eyes closed.

"Can't get to sleep?" A voice at his left asked, slightly surprising him.

"I could ask you the same". He answered to Rean. "You aren't going to tell me the bed's too hard for you, are you?"

"I wouldn't dream of it". The black haired teen answered with a chuckle. "I've never slept in a bed this high class in my life, not even back at home".

"And yet you're the son of Baron Schwarzer… you've not lived the life one might expect f a boy from a noble family".

"Yeah, that's just how my dad is". Rean said with a smile on his face before doing a poor imitation of his father. "'A lord should live like his people, not above them'; that's how he always put it".

"I see… It sounds as though you have a good family".

"Yeah, I'm very thankful for my upbringing".

There was a second of silence before Jusis asked while looking at the roof.

"Aren't you going to ask? I assumed you'd be curious about that brief exchange with my father earlier".

"I am but I won't ask if you don't want to tell". The lesser noble of the two answered. "You obviously get along really well with your brother but… it doesn't take a genius to see that it's not the same with the duke; has he… always been like that?"

"As far back as I can remember… I suppose he just has little respect for a son born to a commoner".

'…Wait! What did he just-?! Learn to vocalize Rean Schwarzer!' "What was that?" He asked moving to a sitting position.

"My brother and I have different mothers". Jusis began to explain. "He was born of my father's legal wife… a noble who still lives to this day". His expression fell slightly before he continued. "My own mother, however, was a commoner… and she passed away eight years ago; in other words, I am his bastard son".

"Oh… I'm sorry to hear that". He then remembered something that seemed odd to him at that moment. "Hey, the chef from that restaurant…?"

"He's my uncle, on my mother's side; perhaps that's why he's always been so good to me… or perhaps he's simply compelled to treat me as I 'deserve' to be treated, being the son of the duke".

"…Do you honestly believe that? Because if you do I might need to slap some sense into you" Rean said with a scowl, a bit bothered by that comment.

"Wha…?" Jusis stared at him for a moment, baffled at what he just heard from his fellow classmate.

"I don't blame you for being a little cynical, and I have only met him once, but he is your uncle, do you really think he only treats you well because of who your father is?"

"… No, I don't". The blond noble answered with a small smile.

"Good". And just like that the fuchsia eyed teen went back to his usual demeanor. "…I'm sure you have your differences… but you do get along with your brother, right?"

"You could say that, he's treated me well ever since I was taken in eight years ago". Jusis answered. "He was the one who taught me my swordsmanship and who trained me in the ways of court etiquette".

"I knew it". Rean said with a chuckle.

"…Pardon?"

"There's just something… honest, I guess you could say, about the way you fight; it shows that whoever taught you was someone you really trusted, when we first met him this afternoon, I had a hunch he might have been the one". The son of the Albarea household simply stared at his classmate in silence for a few seconds. "What's wrong?"

"Hmph, nothing at all". He answered moving his eyes back to the ceiling. "You just keep reminding me how… unlike a noble you truly are".

"Haha, I get that a lot". A comfortable silence befell them before this time Jusis broke it.

"Is your injury from this afternoon on the mend?"

"It's fine, honestly; there's no pain and the wound's closed up like it was never there". Rean assured him. "I'll have to be sure to thank Emma's grandmother for her help someday".

"That's good to hear". The blue eyed teen said before considering if he should say what's on his mind, in the end. "…still, from where I stand, you are something of a danger to yourself".

"I… am?" Jusis moved to a sitting position as well before answering.

"On the day of the entrance ceremony, when the trap door opened beneath us you acted instantly to protect Alisa, there wasn't even a moment's hesitation". He paused for a moment to let that sink in before continuing. "In most cases, one would reflexively act to protect himself, it's part of man's natural survival instinct, yet you put another before yourself, not even pausing to question the validity of that decision… and you did exactly the same thing with us today". Rean simply stood quietly waiting for his classmate to continue. "I'm sure most people would see that as an act of selflessness and sing your praises for it but to me, it comes across as… abnormal, perhaps even twisted"

Rean laid back down in his bed before chuckling. "I… don't know how to respond to that! I wasn't expecting you to see through me quite so… clearly".

"I owed you as much, for having seen through me first; still… the point stands, you need to be more cognizant of the effects your actions have on those around you; if not for your health then for your…" The blond noble trailed off not sure of how to continue. "…reputation? That selflessness of yours can just as easily be perceived as arrogance".

"I have a reputation?!" Rean asked, honestly shocked at hearing that word.

"…If that question had come from anyone else I would think they're jesting".

"Still, I get your point, you're not the first person to tell me that". The noble from Ymir said before doing another poor imitation. "'What's the point in saving others if you can't spare even a moment to save yourself?' That's what my old master always used to say to me".

"Was it, now?"

Another comfortable silence set in before they both shared a chuckle.

"…I suppose we both have some things we need to work through".

"Yeah; but for now, we need to get a good night's sleep" Rean agreed. "If we stay up too late tonight, we're going to be dead to the world tomorrow, and that wouldn't be fair to the others".

"Hmph; I agree, it wouldn't be fair… to the girls, at least".

'For some reason, I saw that coming'.

"I'd hate to be so tired as to limit my potential". He said laying down on his bed once again.

"Hear, hear". The Eight Leaves practitioner answered. "Good night, Jusis".

"Pleasant dreams".

Next morning after everyone got ready they met at the lobby of the hotel.

"Here is the envelope Lord Rufus entrusted to me". The manager said handing over their tasks for the day. "Please take it, and study its contents well".

"Thank you".

"Much appreciated". Rean and Jusis said.

"…if you'll excuse me, then; should you require anything further, please do not hesitate to let me know!" With those words the older man walked away.

"All right, let's see what my brother's given us for today".

There were two requests in the envelope, a monster extermination request and a gathering of ingredients to make a, as the request put it, 'nostalgic dish'.

"…another well-balanced assortment". Emma opined.

"You know…" Rean trailed off for a moment considering something. "…I wouldn't be surprised if Rufus had predicted what happened yesterday from the very start".

"You're saying he intended to give us a firsthand look at the problems between the nobles and the commoners?" Machias asked. "Hmph; if that's true, I'm impressed. His reputation is well earned".

"Sure does seem that way". Fie gave her opinion.

"…I believe that's enough talk about my brother; we have only one day left before we must depart on our return voyage to Trista, we should set out as-".

"Jusis Albarea". The Class VII vice president interrupted earning a few surprised stares.

"…what is it, Machias Regnitz?" The aforementioned asked.

"Do you find it kind of funny when they call each other by their full name?"

"A bit… if they're not about to fight". Fie whispered back to Rean.

"I will accept no more failures; today, we WILL form a combat link". The shotgun user declared, once again earning a few surprised stares.

'That came out of nowhere'.

"…as much as I may dislike you, I'm ashamed that we were unable to do what every other member of our class has accomplished; today's monster extermination request seems as good a chance as any to make up for yesterday's failure, wouldn't you say?"

"…you really are simpleminded, aren't you?" Jusis asked with an amused grin. "I suppose you overhead our conversation last night and feel some kind of affinity toward me now?"

"N-nonsense! I did no such thing!"

'That kind of reaction proves you wrong'. Fie thought.

"I was fast asleep while you yammered on about your family and Rean…" Probably realizing what he just said the glasses wearing teen trailed off after that.

"Machias… you have to be the worst liar I will ever meet in my life". Rean said with a grin, while Emma let out a giggle.

"That's pretty conclusive". Fie added with a grin as well.

"Haha; very well, I accept". The blond noble answered to the shotgun user's request. "I'll be happy to show you what a proper combat link looks like".

"H-hah! We'll see about that! Fortunately, I have more than enough generosity of spirit to endure being paired with an arrogant noble like you!"

Rean couldn't help but let out a chuckle at the exchange that, unlike before, it seemed to be more of both of them joking around instead of actually meaning their words.

"Maybe today's field study will go more smoothly than yesterday's after all". Emma thought out loud.

But the conversation was interrupted when a male's voice was heard.

"Lord Jusis".

"Arnauld?" The blue eyed swordsman said, a bit confused at seeing one of the butlers of his father around. "What brings you here? I would have expected you to be at my father's side".

"I'm terribly sorry I could not greet you upon your arrival yesterday". Aurnauld apologized. "However, I have come today in the capacity of an escort".

"An escort?" Jusis repeated even more confused. "…to where? I'm sure you're aware that I returned to Bareahard purely as part of a field study for my academy work".

"But of course". The butler assured. "However, His Grace has directly requested that I escort you to the mansion, so I would be most appreciative if you'd accompany me without delay".

"F-Father? He showed no signs of desiring my company when we spoke yesterday!" Jusis said, surprised at hearing this.

"I am in no position to question or oppose his orders, merely to obey them; I'm sure you understand… though while I hesitate to speculate, I do wonder if His Grace may feel some regret regarding his demeanor yesterday…"

"I…b-but…" Jusis trailed off feeling conflicted between going and meet his father or staying and complete the assignments, in the end he looked at his classmates as if asking them what to do.

"Go with him". Machias told him adjusting his glasses, surprising the young noble. "We can attempt to form a combat link another time".

"We'll be able to handle the morning's tasks just fine on our own, don't worry about us". Rean assured him.

"You've come all the way back to your hometown… it would be a shame not visit with your family, right?" Emma supported.

"Agreed". As did Fie.

"A-Are you certain…?" He asked doubting for a moment longer. "Very well, I'll return this afternoon". But in the end he decided to listen to his classmates. "And though I will worry as to how you'll fare without me, I know you'll at least try your best, for what that's worth". He added jokingly.

"Hmph, of course we will". Machias answered in a similar tone.

"All right, let's meet back in the hotel lobby around noon; if something comes up, just leave a message at the front desk".

"Understood" He answered to Rean's suggestion. "Lead the way, Arnauld".

"Gladly, sir". The butler answered before addressing the rest of Group A. "Please, excuse us". After a small bow they left the hotel.

"Oh Jusis".

"Hmm?"

"Do you mind if we tell them?" Rean asked before the noble passed through the door.

"…not at all, it would be a bit rude to leave them in the dark after all".

"Got it".

"I'll see you all in the afternoon". This time he really did left the hotel.

"…well, let's get started! We wouldn't want to give Jusis any further reason to worry, now, would we?" The Eight Leaves practitioner said.

"Certainly not". Emma agreed. "Still…" All eyes then went towards Machias.

"…Wh-what? What is it? If you have something to say, just say it!" The green haired teen spoke, clearly flustered.

"Oh, it's nothing; nothing at all!" Emma answered holding back a giggle.

"She's probably thinking, the worst is over, and it's all thanks to your eavesdropping". Rean said jokingly.

"Good boy". Fie congratulated as if Machias was a dog.

"S-stop that! Stop looking at me like I'm so hapless babe!" Machias demanded before yammering about how he will beat Emma in the midterms while she is at her best, to which she simply answered with a shy 'Y-you will…?' apparently not really aware that there was some competition between them, and to Fie about how sleeping in class is 'an affront to our education!', the younger girl's answer was to cover her ears and say 'I can't hear you' clearly mocking him.

Eventually they stopped the teasing and started with the field study tasks.

As group A worked in their assignments, the car carrying Jusis steadily approached the Albarea mansion.

'There's no way father would call me because he wishes for my company, he never once has asked that of me, there is no way… is there?' The young noble wondered, although he could not remember any time the duke ever seemed to enjoy his company a part of him wanted to hold on to that glimmer of hope. '…I guess I'll have my answer shortly'.

A few minutes later and he had reached the mansion, Jusis exited the car as Arnauld opened the door and walked towards the entrance, a bit faster than usual.

Once he entered the mansion he saw his father standing near the staircase to the second floor, apparently waiting for his arrival.

"Father, I was told you called for me".

"That's right". The duke answered. "You are under house arrest".

"…eh?" Was the only sound that could come out of the teen's mouth after he heard that, as his eyes widened in disbelief. "I-I'm sorry father, could you please repeat that?"

"You are under house arrest, effective immediately and until further notice". Without any other word the head of the Albarea household went upstairs and disappeared on the second floor.

"…Arnauld, did you know about this?" Jusis asked the butler, whose only response was to look away in shame. 'Damn it'. The young noble cursed while gritting his teeth in rage. "…I'll be in my room". He informed, knowing that he wouldn't let him pass the front door; and even if he forced his way out, there were no shortage of guards around the mansion that could capture him.

Jusis purposely took a long way to his chamber to see if there was any chance of escape, the windows and doors appeared to be locked and the guards were constantly patrolling, eventually he reached his room and entered it, literally plopping down in his bed face-up and with an arm covering his face.

'I was a fool'. He thought with a smile of self-mockery. 'Wanting my company? Yeah, right!' He kept cursing for who knows how long before eventually calming down… at least enough to think about other things aside from curses.

.

.

'…wait, something doesn't add up'. He moved to a sitting position and started to assess his situation. 'There is no reason for him to do this, he has never been a great father but he never purposely went out of his way to make my life miserable'. Although their relationship was the furthest thing from ideal, or even acceptable, it was true that the duke never did something to purposely inflict harm on him, probably because the only interest he had on his second son was of 'do not bring shame on me'. 'So why did he do something like this now?'

If it wasn't to bring him pain then what could be the reason.

'What does he earn by keeping me here? What would he lose if I was still with my classmates?' He then started to count what he knows about the rest of Group A that could influence his father to do this. 'Rean is the son of a baron, even if he is adopted, but as far as I know his father doesn't participate on political debates so I doubt my father has some agenda that involves him; Emma is a commoner from a remote region of the empire, I don't know anything else about her that could possibly be relevant to him; I don't know much about Fie but she said she was a commoner, so unless it turns out she is the long lost daughter of some great noble family I doubt she is the target and Machias… is the son of Imperial governor Carl Regnitz'. A metaphorical bulb lighted in his mind realizing what the most likely situation was. 'I have a bad feeling about this, he can't capture him without a reason but the provincial army is basically dogs waiting to be told 'attack' right now, even if it's on false charges they would arrest him solely because they were ordered to do so; in other words this is all just some move to gain more power'. He got up from his bed with an expression of pure anger on his face.

"W-would he really…?" Jusis trailed off as a part of him wanted to believe he was wrong. '…If my reasoning is correct then I need to leave this place as soon as possible'. Just then someone knocked on his door.

"Lord Jusis, it's me Arnauld". The youngest son of the Albarea household walked towards the door and opened it just enough so his face was the only thing visible.

"What is it?"

"I thought I should inform you that one of your classmates has been arrested by the provincial army".

'Damn it!' Jusis yelled in his mind.

"He is currently been held in the dungeon of the local guardhouse here in Bareahard… also, please do pardon me, but I tend to sometimes think out loud".

"What…?"

"I just remembered that I should make sure the passage to the underground waterway is locked, I would have to first go to the room of the head butler since that's where the key is kept, after all there are not only monsters there but that place extends beneath a good portion of Bareahard; I don't even want to think about it but if someone were to infiltrate it from let's say… the guardhouse's dungeon, they could easily make their way here if they were knowledgeable enough".

"…Hmph, is that so?" Jusis answered opening his door a bit more. "You better get to it then, you're a good man Arnauld".

"I… am really not". The butler answered with a sad smile. "But I appreciate your kind words". After a small bow he left Jusis to his own devices.

'Now… how can I get the key and reach the entrance to the waterway without being seen?' Jusis started to run simulations in his head with the knowledge he had of the mansion to try and find the best route to his objective.

BLOOPER

"Now stay here and think about what you've done". Rean said as he locked the hotel door of the boys' room with Jusis and Machias inside.

"Hey, let us out of here, right now!" Machias demanded banging on the door.

"Don't waste your breath, he clearly has no intention of opening that door". Jusis told him, also annoyed at the situation, he then tried to open the window of the room only to discover that it was locked. "Well then". He attempted to break it but there wasn't even a crack after he tried to charge against it.

"Hmm, what's this?" Machias asked when a note was passed beneath the door. "'The windows were locked and according to the manager are made with a special glass so they're not easily broken', how did you even lock the windows from the inside and make it so we can't unlock it?!" Another note was passed, this time Jusis grabbed it.

"'Super glue', is what it says".

"Are you freaking kidding me?!"

After spending an hour or so trying to find an exit they gave up.

"It seems we are out of options, how about we just tell them that we sorted out our differences?" Jusis suggested.

"…Fine, whatever it takes to get out of here". He approached the door and called out. "Hey guys, we already made peace with each other, can you let us out please?"

Another note was passed.

"…you must be joking". Jusis said after reading it.

"What does it say?"

"'Say: I am sorry for the things I said and you are a great human being who I hope will become my best friend', we have to say that in order to be let out".

"Are you serious?!" Another note was passed. "'Yes, we are'; damn you!"

"Let's just get this over with". Both teens sighed and took a deep breath.

"I am s-sorry for the things I said and… you are a g-g-great human being and I hope you will become my best f-f-f-f- THERE IS NO WAY I CAN SAY THAT" Both yelled at the same time as once again they started to bang in the door.

"They need a bit more time". Rean said the obvious as he, Emma and Fie stood near the door, that was now been hit by shotgun shells.

"I'm impressed at how durable these doors are". Fie admitted.

Chapter Text

'So far so good'. Jusis Albarea thought as he made his way towards the head butler's office.

Luckily he didn't have to hide while walking around, his father said 'house arrest' after all, in other words he was free to move around the house as long as he didn't try to escape.

'Even so, if I'm caught then he'll tighten the security and make it even more difficult for me to escape; I must succeed'.

Turning a corner he reached the hallway where his objective was, there didn't seem to be any guards there.

'They probably don't think that I would attempt this'. Walking slowly and as silently as possible he approached the door and after making sure no one was around took a peek through the key-hole. 'Tch, he is there with… Arnauld?'

"I leave it to you then".

"Understood". The two exchanged that conversation as the head butler gave the key to the underground passage to Arnauld.

'What is he doing?' Noticing that he was starting to leave the office the young noble moved away from the door and towards the direction he had come from, he didn't run since that would only attract suspicion if he was seen, not to mention it would make noise. 'I guess I can ask him if he comes over here'.

As Arnauld exited the office he noticed Jusis standing near the corner of the hallway and his eyes widened slightly.

"Is something the matter Lord Jusis?" He asked, quietly and only after taking a few steps away from the door.

"Not at all, I was just taking a little walk". Jusis answered impassively. "What about you?"

"I'm honored you'd ask". He answered making a small bow before walking past him. "I was just about to attend to my duties; I have many things to do after all". As he said that he purposely dropped the two keys he had been holding and the noble caught them before they could reach the ground.

"I see, I wish you luck then, make sure not to forget the keys you need near their respective locks". With those words he started to walk in the opposite direction.

"I will keep that in mind".

'Thank you'. The blue eyed swordsman said in his mind with a small smile as he went back to his room and grabbed his sword.

.

As he suspected none of the butlers or maids tried to stop him or even spoke to him aside from the few that said 'Lord Jusis' as they bowed in a form of greeting, not even while he had his sword at his side.

Eventually he reached his objective, one of the back doors of the mansion that is usually used to receive food.

'I didn't see any more guards than usual when I came here or out of the windows while walking and they don't have enough manpower to keep someone stationed behind the doors, they'll probably keep to their patrols'. He hid behind several barrels of something, he didn't know what it was and there was no need to find out, which still allowed him to look through one of the windows.

After that he waited for the next patrol.

There were some close encounters as some of the servants of the house entered the place and rummaged around, turns out some of them steal some food but that wasn't something to be concerned about now.

Once the patrol, consisting of two soldiers walking in opposite directions, appeared he started to count the seconds until the next one showed up.

.

'Around four hundred seconds between patrols'. He thought mentally. 'If I want to reach the entrance I need to move fast enough to get there, while also avoiding any of the soldiers that are looking around'.

Sadly, the mansion of the Albareas had a carefully kept garden and there were little places where he could hide between his current position and his objective.

'I'll have to move as soon as the next patrol walks by, the lookouts are all positioned to look outside so there shouldn't be any problem there, the only issue is that it isn't a straight line from here till the underground passage and I risk running into one of those soldiers; I should count less than four hundred and if I can find a place to hide then wait there until the patrol passes'.

Having decided on his course of action, he only had to wait till the patrol passed by again.

.

'All right, now'. Coming out of his hiding spot Jusis used the key to open the door and threw it somewhere around the center of the room. 'It would give Arnauld trouble if they find out he doesn't have the keys'.

After opening and closing the door behind him he made his way towards the entrance of the underground passage.

Of course he didn't went in a straight line, like it or not this was his home and he knew his way around it, so instead he went to a part of the garden that was always covered with bushes and flowers; he ran the furthest he could before counting three hundred seconds in his head and stopping for the soldier in patrol to come by.

It was actually a bit faster than before and he thanked his common sense for not been reckless and trying to reach his objective immediately.

Of course the soldier walked by but he knew he couldn't go just yet, the second soldier was walking in the opposite direction so he would pass here soon; and he did.

Once it had his back to the noble he once again started to move, he accidentally stepped on a tree stick that broke with an audible 'crack', but luckily the soldier was too far away to hear it at this point.

Not even giving himself time to sigh in relief, Jusis kept moving, this time faster than before since at that distance they shouldn't be able to hear him and his target was slowly coming on sight.

Once he reached the entrance to the underground passage, which was a lid in the ground with a chain and lock, he quickly opened it once again leaving the key behind and got in while slowly closing it to avoid making any noise.

Knowing that the worst part was over, the young noble allowed himself to sigh in relief, he still needed to climb down this ladder but aside from that he was on the clear.

'Thank you Arnauld, I hope they don't discover you'. Jusis silently wished the best for the butler as he made his way down.

'I should be on the clear now; it will take a while till they realize I'm gone and even then I doubt this would be the first option they consider'. As he thought that a sound in the tunnel behind him was heard. "Hmph, it seems a welcoming party is already here".

When Jusis turned around, sword already in hand, he saw a group of five monsters in his way, two were cat-looking creatures with a pair of wings that kept fluttering to keep them in the air and the other three were some sort of two legged armor shoulder pad, with two horns coming from what would be the ears in its head and the lower half of its body covered in black fur till the knee cap till the end of its three claw foot.

"But I don't have time to play with you". He raised his sword over his head before pointing it in front of him as he said this and a silver magic circle appeared in front of him before covering his sword with a silver glow, before the monsters had time to react he closed the distance with one step and stabbed the air just before the forehead of one of the cat monsters; the air around the monsters changed as a dome was suddenly around them forbidding their escape.

"Your end is sure". He adopted a stance with his sword, with the hilt above his heart and the tip pointing upwards before doing two diagonal slashes, the first one starting from the left down and the second from the right up, forming an X. "Crystal Saber". He did one last slash, this one horizontally, immediately after the dome exploded and the monsters inside were cut in the same way as the slashes.

"Phew… that still takes too much out of me". The blond swordsman thought out loud as he took a few deep breaths. 'But now is no time to rest'. Before thinking this he had already sheathed his sword and was walking towards the guardhouse. 'I never thought my brother teaching me about this place would come in handy… at least not for a situation like this one'.

.

.

Since he was currently a one-man team, Jusis made a point of avoiding battles as much as possible, sneaking around, and if he had to fight, he did his best to just scare the monsters away rather than right down annihilate them, not many did escape but it was better than nothing.

The underground waterway was surprisingly well maintained, there were several lamps that allowed anyone to see around, several big pillars holding the ceiling so the whole city doesn't crumble, some bars stopping certain pathways, and every now and then a set of ladders that took whoever was navigating them up or down.

'Alright, not too much further until the guardhouse'. Just as the noble teen thought that he heard a set of familiar voices. "I certainly didn't expect to encounter the three of you down here".

"Wha…?" One of the voices said in surprise.

"Is that…?"

"Jusis!" Rean exclaimed, his eyes a bit widened.

"I'm so glad you're safe!" Emma said in relief.

"Hmph, of course I am". Jusis answered as if it was obvious while everyone got closer to each other. "Though, I can't say I was expecting to be placed under house arrest the moment I returned to the mansion"

"So that's what happened…" The other swordsman of the group trailed off.

"You know what's going on?" Fie asked, wondering if they'll have to fill in the details.

"Unfortunately". The blue eyed teen said holding back a sigh. "Arresting the Imperial governor's son under a false charge in order to keep the Reformist Faction under control… I find it hard to believe my father would attempt something so brazen". His expression changed to angry the slightest bit as Jusis tried to maintain a neutral expression. "He didn't have any intention of talking to me, not the slightest inclination, this was all planned from the start".

The other three stood in silence, with a mix of anger at the head of the Albarea household and pity towards their classmate, even if he would certainly hate to receive any of it.

"Enough about me". Jusis said to change the subject. "Thanks to my brother, I'm familiar with the general layout of this waterway; I'll lead us to the guardhouse, let's get moving".

"You're… actually…" The Eight Leaves practitioner trailed off, actually surprised.

"You were planning on saving him even if you had to do it alone, weren't you?" Emma asked happily.

"Nothing like last month's field study". Fie pointed out.

"Hmph". Jusis began to answer while looking them as if saying 'that must be a joke'. "Don't get the wrong idea, I just can't condone my father's actions; besides, he's no doubt huddled up, crying and lonely in the corner of his cell right now". He did an amused smile, probably imagining that. "It's worth rescuing him just to see that".

Emma giggled at hearing this, Fie sighed, probably a bit annoyed at the lie, while Rean.

"By Aidios, are all blondes tsunderes?" That question got the others to look at him.

"Wh-what?!" The blond in question asked in shock.

"What's that?" The silver haired girl of the group asked, not familiar with that term.

"Oh, one of the members of the literature club told me about it; a tsundere is a person who is usually cold, or even hostile, towards others but shows their friendlier or gentle side once you get to know them". The class president explained.

"…yeah, he is one for sure". Fie said with a grin.

"Come on, we have to go". The blue eyed noble said looking away and starting to walk.

"True, let's go". Rean agreed, letting go the tsundere thing... for now.

.

"So what happened after I left?" Jusis asked, wanting to know the details of how this situation came about.

"Want the long, short or abridged version?" Rean asked back.

"…what's the abridged version?" Emma asked, voicing everyone's confusion.

"The one where I change things to be ridiculous for the heck of it".

"Let's go with the 'neither short nor long' version". Fie stated with a half eyed look.

After Jusis left, everyone ended up making their way back to Aurochs Fort, a part of them nagging them about the silver object from yesterday and if the provincial army managed to catch it.

They asked the guards at the front but they were 'less than cooperative' about that, as they started to make their way back they found an overly positive man, since even when he was completely lost he kept smiling and saying that everything was gonna be okay, he had ended up here after trying to catch a butterfly and escaping some monsters, the soldiers weren't willing to escort him back so Group A offered to do so.

Nothing of note happened except for when they crossed a bridge and the man, called Anton, asked them to stop to go to the edge of it and yell 'I HATE ANNIVERSARY FESTIVALS! FAREWELL, MY YOUTH!' at the top of his lungs.

"Are you serious?" Jusis asked perplexed.

"Yes". The other three answered in sync.

"…go on".

So after coming back, Anton and his friend thanked Group A and they set for their original tasks.

Starting with the one from Jusis' uncle, Hammond, they collected the ingredients and Hammond prepared the dish for them.

He called it Deluxe Herb Chowder; not only it was delicious but, as Fie and Machias put it, it would be great if to have it if you ever caught a cold.

The chef then mentioned how this was something Jusis' mother came up with one time he fell ill in his younger years and how he was always at the front of her mind.

A nostalgic smile found its way in the young Albarea's expression but everyone chose not to mention it.

He even gave the recipe that the dish was based off to them in case they wanted to try it.

After that it was the monster extermination request.

It was basically a giant carnivore plant with three heads, it gave some fight but nothing that Group A couldn't handle.

"What, you're not mentioning that part?" Fie asked with a grin.

"I was getting to that". Rean answered, earning an inquisitive look from Jusis. "So before the fight Machias tried to apologize to me about yesterday".

"Rean's answer was to say that he was to blame as well since the wounds were the result of his own carelessness before telling Machias that he counted on him". Emma continued.

"And after the fight was over and we were making our way back".

In the North Kreuzen Highway, a few hours ago.

"Rean". Machias called out, stopping the group.

"Something wrong?" The one called asked.

"I want to apologize".

"Like I said, it's fi-"

"I don't mean for yesterday". The shotgun user interrupted. "I mean for a week ago… when I hit you".

"Oh…"

Emma and Fie decided to stay silent as they talked about this.

"I was in a bad mood that day, some of the nobles from the upper class chess club are trying to have ours shut down; I had just finished an… 'argument' with them when you and Laura stopped me and Jusis from fighting, then the next day I saw that you seemed to be getting along and I started to associate you with the type of nobles I hate". While Machias was explaining Rean had stayed silent, letting him continue. "I know this may sound like an excuse but it really isn't and hitting you just because you were trying to find out why I hated nobles was out of place, to say the least".

"…It's fine, really". The swordsman assured him with a comforting smile. "I don't know what happened between you and nobles and I won't ask unless you want to tell me, I can tell that it isn't something you like to talk about, but I don't hold a grudge over it so don't worry about it".

"Thank you Rean". The class vice president answered. "However, I still think that what I did was out of place, so-"

"Let me guess". Jusis interrupted. "He told him 'hit me so we're even' or something to that effect, didn't he?"

"Yep". Fie confirmed.

"Did you hit him?"

"Yes… but probably not in the way you're thinking". Rean answered making the other noble raise an eyebrow in curiosity.

"He flicked him". Emma answered his unspoken question.

"…flicked him?" The blond teen repeated.

"Yeah, just told him to take off his glasses and when Machias closed his eyes expecting the hit, he did…" Emma mimicked the motion in the air. "…like this, in his forehead".

"Machias kept saying that it isn't the same and I should hit him as he hit me". The black haired swordsman continued. "But that's the best I could do".

"…do you even know the meaning of the word 'anger'?"

"Oh, déjà vu". The orbal staff user said after hearing those words from Jusis, earning another raised eyebrow from the young noble.

"Machias asked the same thing". The silver haired girl explained with an amused expression that suddenly turned serious.

"Seems we have to end our little recap here". Rean stated taking out his sword, Jusis and Emma following suit.

"There are a lot". The bespectacled girl stated seeing the dozen or so monsters in their way.

"They're nothing but fodder, it will be just a matter of time before we're through". The blue eyed swordsman said confidently.

"Time isn't exactly a luxury we have but I guess there is no other way". The Eight Leaves practitioner said preparing his stance, but before anyone could engage the enemy.

"…leave them to me". A monotonous voice was heard.

"Fie?" The three other asked a bit confused.

"Get behind that pillar and don't come out till I'm done". The silver haired girl said as she calmly walked towards the monsters.

"Wh-what…?" Emma trailed off as the three simply looked at her back.

"…let's do as she says". Rean said walking back. "She isn't the type to be overconfident, she probably has a plan of some sort".

Although the three were still a bit worried they still did as told.

'What does she plan to accomplish?' Jusis wondered while peeking through the corner of the pillar they were behind, same as the other two.

"Here goes". The youngest member of Class VII said as she lowered her stance, flexing her knees and extended her arms.

Almost faster than any of the Class VII members could register she lunged at the monsters, she moved so fast that her enemies didn't even had time to try and hit her as she passed them and ended in the opposite side, but it didn't stop there, with that same speed she repeated the same moving to the sides of the enemy group, and in almost every direction possible, slashing at them every time, then she jumped in the middle of them and "Sylphid Dance" started to spin in place while continuously pulling the triggers of her gun-swords.

The other three members had to quickly move back behind the pillar as some of the bullets went towards them, this continued for a few seconds… and then there was silence.

Rean, Emma and Jusis cautiously peeked again to see Fie standing in the middle of the corpses of the dozen or so monsters that were previously in their way.

"Path is clear". Fie called out, as if she hadn't just annihilated all those enemies on her own.

"How did you do that?" Rean asked in amazement as they approached her.

"It's a technique I learned some time ago". She answered vaguely. "It's a bit hard to pull off and tires me out so I prefer not to use it much". Then she turned around. "Come on".

They wordlessly followed her, still getting over what they just saw.

.

"That's a… long ladder". Rean stated as they were now face to face with a ladder going high enough that they almost couldn't see the top. "Well…". Without any other word they started to climb it.

"Why is this ladder so long?" Emma asked when they were around halfway through whit a pant.

"Is it harder to climb ladders when you've got a big chest?" Fie asked, literally making everyone else stop, and forcing her as well since she was the last in line.

"F-Fie…!" Emma half yelled in embarrassment while the two male members of the group opted to keep quiet on the matter.

"So what did you answer? About knowing the meaning of the word 'anger'" Jusis clarified.

"Oh, nothing special, 'I know the meaning I'm just not easily angered' something among those lines". The black haired swordsman answered as they kept climbing.

"Still, it's kind of incredible how you always seem so composed". Emma stated.

"True, I don't think I've ever see you angry, annoyed maybe but not angry". Fie supported. "Are you even capable of been angry?"

"…trust me, I'm just as capable as anyone". He answered, he sounded a bit cold. "But if we're talking about people that don't get angry then I think Gaius takes the cake".

"He does seem to stay calm at all times". The orbal staff user conceded, the three wondering if the previous tone was just their imagination.

.

Rean, Emma and Fie took turns to tell what happened afterwards while they continued their journey, basically as soon as they got back to the town Machias was captured and the soldiers wouldn't listen to them, not to mention they searched their stuff in the hotel, and later they overheard a Bracer talking with the owner of a restaurant in Artisans' Street about this place, Emma picked the lock of the door that led here and the rest is history.

A lattice door got in their way as they tried to reach the guardhouse and Jusis mentioned that there should be a mechanism nearby to open lattice door, it took some exploring but they found it eventually and crossed it, they ended up having to climb down another ladder, not as long as the previous one but still a fair amount, Fie did another 'comment' like before but was reprimanded lightly by Rean saying that 'that's enough'.

Not long after the group reached the entrance to the guardhouse… as in the iron locked double-doors that is the entrance.

"A-A door?!" Jusis asked no one in particular in surprise.

"It looks to be made of iron, but…" Emma trailed off as she examined it but Fie finished for her.

"…there's no keyhole". The younger girl stated. "Guess it can only be opened from the other side".

"So the guardhouse is beyond this door, then?"

"It is, indeed". The blond noble answered the Eight Leaves practitioner. "This path connects the waterway with the building's lower levels; I had no idea the door between the two areas could only be opened from inside, however".

"H-How are we supposed to get through? I can't pick the lock if there's no keyhole…" The purplish haired girl said a bit concerned.

"It looks far too sturdy for my sword to have much effect, either". Rean admitted.

"…this can be overcome". Fie suddenly stated, earning a few questions from the others but she chose to ignore them. "Stand back". Knowing better than to not listen to her after the display from earlier they all took several steps away as she approached the door and placed a… plastic-looking thing in the middle of it and in the four corners before taking some steps back herself.

"What are you doing?" Jusis asked confused

'I know this smell…' Rean thought while looking between the plastics and Fie.

The silver haired girl took a stance with her gun-swords pointing to the ground with her arms extended and her left one over the right one before pressing a secondary trigger on her weapons.

"Explain yourself plea-"

"Ignition". As she interrupted Jusis the five plastics exploded at the same time.

"What...?!" The Class VII president and the son of duke Albarea said at the same time as the door slowly fell to the floor with an audible

*Crash*

"…done". Fie announced as if what just happened was completely normal while putting away her weapons and keeping her arms behind her back with her right hand around the wrist of the left one.

"D-done…?"

"Fie, did you…?" Rean and Emma stuttered, trying to get over the surprise.

"Was that… a bomb?" Jusis asked.

"Portable high-powered explosive, plasticity makes it handy for this kind of work".

"E-explosive?" The orbal staff user repeated.

"Where could you possibly have gotten such a thing?!" The blue eyed noble wondered.

'…I'm not one to try and dig out other people's secrets… but this is simply too much'. "…Fie, I think at this point, we have a right to know". Rean spoke with a serious expression. "What exactly is your background?"

The girl limited to look away with her characteristically stoic expression.

"R-Rean-"

"The day of the entrance ceremony, I saw you dodging that trap floor the rest of us fell into". The black haired swordsman continued, not recognizing what was probably an admonition from Emma. "You're two years younger than us, yet you're physically no weaker at all; in fact, I'd say when it comes to combat situations, you seem almost like you're holding back".

"Impossible…!" Jusis trailed off, considering the words of his classmate after trying to disregard them.

"…Guess you got me". Fie said with her eyes closed and no change in her expression, after a second she opened them again. "Before I came to the academy, I was a jaeger, that's where I learned how to handle explosives and use my gun-swords… that's all".

"A jaeger?" Rean repeated, Emma and Jusis sharing his surprise judging by their expressions. "I wasn't expecting that".

"…I've heard that term before". The purplish-brown haired girl said. "The best of the best mercenary outfits are known as jaeger corps".

"Jaeger corps are almost synonymous with the Grim Reaper". The blond swordsman expressed his surprise. "To think I'd be going to school with a jaeger…"

"Me, a reaper?" Fie asked with no change in her expression aside from tilting her head a bit.

"N-no, th-that's not…" Jusis stammered for a second before taking a breath to compose himself. "I-I spoke out of turn; I mustn't let prejudices get the better of me".

"That's right!" Emma supported. "Knowing her past doesn't change who she is now".

"…thanks for telling us, Fie". Rean thanked before his expression fell. "And I'm sorry for prying".

"Not bothered". The former jaeger assured him. "But we should hurry if we want to save Machias".

Everyone agreed and resumed their journey.

Not like there was much journey left, the door was literally the only thing left separating them from the Guardhouse's jail aside from a few sets of stairs, soon enough they saw the jail cells.

"This looks like the place". Rean noted.

"Looks like an underground prison, all right". Fie commented.

"Indeed". Jusis confirmed. "He must be here somewhere-"

"Am I hearing things…?" A voice trailed off.

"Machias!" Emma almost yelled in relief.

"…and still in one piece by the sound of it". The blond noble added as the four quickly approached the cell the voice came from.

"What are you all doing here?" The green haired teen asked, clearly not expecting to see them in a place like this. "There's no way the provincial army would just let me go…" He trailed off before he realized the situation. "Y-you didn't sneak in, did you?!"

"We came in through the underground waterway". The Eight Leaves practitioner answered.

"I'll open the cell". The gun-sword user informed them as she placed more of that plastic explosive in the lock.

"How are you going to-" Machias couldn't finish his question before the explosive detonated. "What the…?!" With the lock gone, Fie only had to push slightly for it to open, leaving a baffled Machias.

"W-We'll explain when we have more time". Emma spoke, knowing that the shotgun user certainly has questions.

"Yeah! Right now, we need to get away from here before we're caught!" Rean urged.

"As long as we can make it back to the city, we should be able to bluff our way out of any further trouble". Jusis assured.

"Right!" The class vice president answered as he got out of the cell. "Thanks, I'd resigned myself to being stuck in there for a while". He then turned to Jusis. "I must admit, though, I'm surprised you of all people would come to my aid!"

"Hmph, I only came to get a glimpse of your tear-stained face". The noble answered arrogantly. "Plus… I thought this might be a good opportunity to pay back my father". He continued in a lower volume and looking away.

"I… see…"

Just then two new voices were heard and two provincial army soldiers armed with orbal rifles with a bayonet attached approached the group.

"Damn…" Rean cursed.

"L-Lord Jusis?!" One of the soldiers asked in confusion.

"As much as I would love to praise you for a job well done…" As the noble was saying this he quickly drew his sword and closed the distance. "…I'm afraid I'm going to have to ask you to take a short rest!" And with that he quickly threw one of the soldiers' weapons out of their hands.

Not missing the chance, Rean did the same using the fourth form of the Eight Leaves school and Fie jumped and hit the soldiers in the back of their heads with the hilt of her gun-swords, hard enough to knock them out even though they were using helmets.

"…mission accomplished". The silver haired girl announced a bit proudly.

"Almost, Machias I assume they took away your shotgun, didn't they?" The black haired member of the group asked.

"Sadly, they may be corrupt but they're not stupid". The currently weaponless member answered.

"We should retrieve it, there is a chance we may find more monsters on the way back and having a dead weight doesn't benefit anyone". Jusis stated matter-of-factly.

"B-but, if we try to retrieve it, we could be found out". Emma reminded.

"…I'll handle it". Fie declared walking past the unconscious guards.

"You'll be okay?" Rean asked a bit worried, the answer was a 'V' sign from the younger girl before she disappeared around the corner.

"Wh-what does she think she is doing?!" Machias asked baffled.

"Getting your shotgun back". The Eight Leaves swordsman answered obviously. "Before you ask why we're letting her, she is a former jaeger"

"WH-?!" Before he could yell Emma placed her hands over the green haired teen's mouth.

"I-I'm sorry but we need to be quiet". She apologized a bit flustered, once Machias nodded in understanding she let go.

"S-still, a jaeger?"

"We were surprised as well". Jusis answered. "But she helped us get here and, as Emma put it, it doesn't change who she is now".

"Y-yeah, that's true".

"I'm back". Fie said as she walked towards them with Machias' shotgun in hand.

"Th-Thank you". The owner of the weapon said a bit uneasy as he took the shotgun from her hands.

"Don't mention it, I'm guessing they told you".

"We did". Rean confirmed.

After a short exchange with Machias asking Jusis if he was okay with this, to which he answered that the guards' lives were in no danger, they all started to make their way out of the prison.

.

They had barely made it past the door that Fie blew up when a roar was heard.

"What was that?!"

"It came from the direction of the cells!" The orbal staff user answered the black haired teen.

"Might be some kind of trained beast". Fie proposed, a bit worried.

"Gah, you've got to be joking!"

"If you have the energy to shout, you have the energy to run!" Jusis reprimanded Machias as everyone did exactly that.

"There are two of them". Rean said 'sensing' their pursuers as everyone kept running. "And they're big!"

"And fast". Fie added.

"Hurry!" Jusis ordered.

"R-Right!" Emma answered.

"Gah… this is the worst day ever!" Machias complained with a heavy sigh as everyone hastened the pace.

Thanks to the absence of monsters, either because Group A had cleaned them all out or because they could feel the presence of whatever was pursuing the humans, they managed to make it around halfway back.

That's when the pursuers caught up, one of them literally jumping above them to cut off their escape.

The pursuers turned out to be two giant, as in unnaturally big, dogs.

One of them had red blackish fur with dark silver colored armor, said armor was a helmet that covered the upper part of the beast's head with two holes for the ears and was connected to a longer piece of armor that covered its spine stopping where the tail began, it also had armor around the ankles and the upper part of its legs; its claws were bony looking and were clearly sharpened like knifes.

The second one was mostly the same, the only difference was that its fur was blue, almost green, and the pieces of armor a dark yellow.

The two beasts started to circle around their prey, almost as if they planned to play.

"Geh…we're surrounded!" Rean said, everyone already had their weapons out and was ready to fight.

"They're very well trained". Fie commented

"Cats?... No, dogs; they're like dogs!" Emma mentioned after taking a long look at them.

"Y-your family's army employs monsters like this?!" Machias asked, sounding disgusted at the sight in front of him.

"No one ever told me!" Jusis answered with a similar tone.

The dogs slowly started to close in while circling around the students.

"…they aren't going to let us past, are they?" The class president asked, although she already knew the answer.

"They're pretty smart, for beasts". The vice president commented with a growl.

"So we'll just have to take them down". The silver haired gun-sword user stated.

"Indeed, bad dogs require stern discipline". The blue eyed noble agreed.

"Why did it have to be dogs?" Rean asked, almost sounding like he was whining.

"You don't like dogs?" Fie asked a bit curiously.

"I love dogs". He answered. "But now is not the time for that conversation… Machias, Jusis, can you take red and silver over there?"

"Hmph, of course".

"Need you even ask?" Both answered confidently.

'That's a good sign'. The fuchsia eyed swordsman thought. "Fie, you and I will take blue and yellow, Emma support both groups as you see fit".

"Ja".

"I'll do my best!" The girls answered. "But before that". Emma quickly casted an art. "La forte". Imbuing everyone's weapons with fire's blessing. "That should help against that armor".

"Time to wrap up this month's field study; Class VII, Group A… commence attack on the targets!"

"Right!" Everyone answered as they engaged their respective objectives.

Much like the monster the day before Jusis charged in while Machias provided covering fire however, maybe due to the armor, the oversized beast wasn't as easily affected by the shells, even with the added damage from Emma's art.

It did seem to at least annoy it and provide enough of a chance for the swordsman to close in or retreat as needed but not enough for him to actually damage it beyond flesh wounds.

'Tch, that armor is tough'. The class vice president cursed as he kept the covering fire making sure it won't be able to hit Jusis easily. 'Let's try making a crack in it'. He prepared to use the break shot, communicating through the combat link towards his classmate, and shot at the armor in the neck causing a small crack in it. 'It's tougher than I thought'. He was hoping to cause a lot more damage than that with the shot.

'More than enough'. The close range fighter thought as he closed in and matched the angle of his sword to that of the crack, forcing it to be bigger and slowly sinking his sword in; the beast, however, wasn't stupid and realized what was happening so it quickly moved one of its front legs to sweep at the noble, who managed to move away in time, partially due to a well-placed shot from his green haired classmate. 'Nice shot'. He complimented as he jumped back a few times. 'It would seem we actually can work together if we put our minds to it'. The blond haired swordsman couldn't suppress a small chuckle at the thought.

"Something wrong?"

"Not at all, keep covering me".

"Hmph, as if I need you to tell me that, much like me these dogs aren't going to bow before you because of who you are". Machias answered smirking playfully.

"Another thing you have in common beyond a bad attitude then". Jusis said back with a similar expression before lunging once again.

They kept this pattern for a while, with Jusis using hit-and-run tactics while Machias gave openings for him to do so, but eventually the dog realized what was happening.

The next time Jusis tried to lunge, it jumped over him and made a bee-line for Machias.

'Shit!' Both teens thought as the beast got ready to cut Machias with its claws, he rolled out of the way just in time but couldn't keep himself on his feet and it took the chance to jump against him, its mouth opening in an attempt to bite him.

'Damn it'. The shotgun-user thought in a panic as he brought his shotgun up to attempt and defend himself, even if he suspected that his weapon could break due to the force of his enemy's jaw.

He never found out, since Jusis moved in the way and thrusted his sword aiming for the army-beast's open mouth.

The armored animal widened its eyes a bit, clearly not having expected the sudden interference, but instead of freezing it quickly moved to the left; the noble's sword was already inside of its mouth by the time it could react but instead of going all the way to its throat and, possibly, cut it and causing it to choke; the weapon only made a cut in its right cheek.

It then aimed its sharp claws to the noble's right leg, as it was about to connect a white beam of light hit the dog from the side and caused it to only graze the appendage.

It still teared apart a piece of Jusis' pants and made three gashed in his leg, but it was better than outright losing it.

"Thank you Emma". He said, focusing on the enemy.

"You okay?" Machias asked a bit worried.

"Just a flesh wound". The swordsman assured as he felt the wound closing thanks to Emma's healing arts. "You better not freeze because of fear now".

"Hmph, right back at you".

They took a deep breath before resuming their fight.

While Jusis and Machias were dealing with the red and silver one, Rean and Fie were engaging the blue and yellow.

They adopted a similar strategy to the 'prideful warriors', with Rean closing in and Fie shooting at a distance, occasionally closing in to slash or stab at the monster.

There was a difference, however, in that instead of Fie trying to make openings for Rean to strike, Rean was keeping the beast's attention on him so Fie could aim at the gaps in the armor.

He mostly dodged while keeping himself as close as possible to the oversized dog, almost as if telling him 'keep your eyes on me', occasionally slashing if he found a good opening for it but rarely doing more than flesh wound when he did.

'I don't think we'll lose in a battle of attrition'. The swordsman thought dodging a head-butt aimed at his chest. 'But the provincial army could be approaching us as we speak, if possible we need to wrap this up'.

Rean knew he wasn't the only one concerned about this, the others probably reached the same conclusion, but there wasn't any opening they could use to attempt and finish the battle.

They kept to the same pattern when the beast seemed to lose balance.

'It's hurt, now'. Rean thought, preparing the Autumn Leaf Cutter and aiming at one of the exposed parts of the beast's legs, he did the quick-draw and expected to hear a roar of pain after cutting its flesh… but neither happened. 'Did it trick me?!'

Just before the sword connected the war-beast had jumped high, completely avoiding the Eight Leaves practitioner who was now the one out of balance.

'Crap!' He immediately forced his legs to move out of the way but it wasn't gonna be fast enough, the army dog was already falling with one of its claws aiming for the teen's throat.

Time seemed to slow down for Rean as he felt the claws start to dig in the left side of his throat, he still kept forcing his legs to move but he could tell that he won't be able to escape a fatal blow.

Not alone, that is.

As soon as the beast had come down with its claws at the ready, Fie had rushed in and used her gunswords to hold the leg aiming for her classmate's neck up, stopping the momentum long enough for Emma to use one of the techniques of her orbal staff, she summoned four silver colored energy swords that stood in the air around her and with one movement of her staff threw them at the beast forcing it back while Rean and Fie jumped in the opposite direction.

"Th-thanks…" The Eight Leaves practitioner trailed off, holding his neck with his left hand as some blood was dripping from it.

'He's scared'. The silver haired girl noticed. 'Will he be able to continue?'

'Th-that almost got me, I-I was about to lose my-' Before that line of thought progressed Rean used both his hands, the left one open while the right one in a fist holding his sword, and hit himself on both sides of his face to clear his mind. 'Not the time, not the place for that'. He took one deep breath before assuming his stance once more.

"You okay?" The former jaeger asked, not taking her eyes off the army beast that had started to get up.

"I can still fight". He limited his answer to that while Emma used another of the functions of her orbal staff, basically an immediately casted healing art, on Rean to stop the bleeding.

.

After a few minutes Group A began to get tired, their pursuers weren't any better as the continuous wounds were starting to get an effect, but the difference was that it only took one mistake from the students for any of them to receive a fatal wound while it was difficult for them to inflict any on the armored beasts thanks, precisely, to their armor covering the vital areas; if it wasn't for the fact that they had healing arts at their disposal, the wounds they would have at this point would have probably knocked out, for the amount of blood lost if nothing else.

"Any suggestions?" Machias asked as both sides took a breather and sized the other up.

"…I have one, Rean, Jusis, Fie, can you use those techniques?" Emma asked in return.

"I can manage".

"If it's just one more time, then yes".

"I can do it".

They answered in the same order she asked.

"Please follow my lead". She made a combat link with everyone and started to analyze the dogs the same way Elliot did with Grunoja last month, after finding one weak spot from one of the beasts she moved to the next one and relayed the information to Rean and Jusis.

'Flames, gather on my blade!' The black haired Eight Leaves practitioner ordered after assuming the stance for the Flame slash as his blade ignited itself.

Jusis then pointed his sword forward making the magic circle appear that was quickly absorbed into his sword.

The war-beasts, noticing that their prey was attempting something, prepared to lunge at them but before they could Fie threw a flashbang grenade in the air blinding them, Group A wasn't affected since she communicated that through the combat link.

As soon as their techniques were ready both swordsmen closed the distance to their respective objective and aimed at the weak spots Emma had marked for them through the combat link.

"Break shot!" Machias yelled as he shot one time to each of the dogs, weakening said weak spots even more.

'Strike!'

'Crystal Saber!'

Both swordsmen hit their marks, the multiple wounds on the dogs' bodies making them too slow to react.

Rean, Emma, Jusis and Machias then moved out of the way as Fie began to, literally, dash back and forth in a straight line between the two enemies continuously slashing every time she passed before stopping at the middle and taking aim with one gun-sword pointed at each beast before pulling the trigger several times.

Having received too much damage to keep on their feet, both of the beasts toppled to the ground.

"…We did it…" Rean confirmed as every member of Group A tried to get their breathing back in order.

"Whew… that was tough". Fie admitted, this probably been the first time any member of Class VII had seen her out of breath.

"I-I thought we were done for…" Machias trailed off.

"Hmph, I have no intention of letting filthy beasts get the better of me, trained or otherwise". Jusis said trying to sound arrogant but the exhaustion in his face betrayed him.

A second later and everyone started to chuckle, half in relief and half in amazement they managed to win.

"Honestly, now… this is no laughing matter, you know". The class vice president reminded.

"Hmph, look who's talking, you're grinning like an idiot". The second son of House Albarea said back.

"Not as much as you are!" He said back.

"There they go". The silver haired gun-sword user said, although not sounding annoyed this time. "…they're still alive". She said looking at the two beasts.

"What should we do…?" The bespectacled class president asked.

"They can't go after us in their condition, let's just go". Rean proposed. "The provincial army could be here any sec-"

PIIIIIIIIII

"Damn". The whistle that interrupted him came from an officer of the provincial army accompanied by several soldiers.

"We're not through the woods just yet, it would seem!" Jusis said as six soldiers quickly surrounded Group A.

"…looks like the end of the road". Machias admitted through gritted teeth.

"You've pushed your luck one step too farrrr this time!" The officer in charge said, for some reason emphasizing the 'r' in his speech. "Are you that desperate to be thrown in a cell with Rrrregnitz?!"

"If you want to arrest us, go right ahead". Jusis said as he took a few steps in front of the officer.

"L-Lord Jusis?!" The officer exclaimed, apparently neither he, nor the soldiers, having noticed his presence till now. "What are you doing here? I thought you'd been locked in the mansion!"

"I chose to return to my studies". The blond noble answered while crossing his arms. "…well? What's it to be?" He asked trying to sound as intimidating as possible. "Accusing my classmates of this crime will implicate me as well".

The soldiers clearly started to hesitate at hearing this.

"Silence!" The officer ordered. "Not even Lord Jusis has the rrright to trespass in a military facility".

'In any other situation I would be asking what's his deal with the 'r''. Rean thought.

"Much less to release a suspect in our custody, dirrrectly opposing the orders of His Grace the Duke".

"Enough!" Jusis said back letting his arms fall to his side. "We may not be the best of friends but I am Jusis Albarea! I will not simply stand by and watch as one of my classmates is arrested under false charges and used as a tool in some political war!"

Everyone, especially Machias, were more or less left speechless at this announcement.

"…Tch!" The officer clicked his tongue in annoyance before answering. "We have our orders, and nothing you say will change that; disarm them, men! Lord Jusis included!"

"That will not be necessary". A new voice announced from the opposite way of the army's guardhouse.

"Impossible!" Jusis exclaimed in surprise as he saw his older brother approach them.

"L-Lord Rrrufus?!" The officer asked in shock.

"H-how? Why are you…?" Rufus' younger brother trailed off, still getting over the surprise of seeing him here.

"I received a message from the academy at noon today and I returned by airship as quickly as I could". The older Albarea answered. "With your instructor".

"Looks like you've all done a fine job!" Sara praised as she 'stepped into the light'.

Obviously the Class VII members wondered why she was here but that was put on hold as Rufus continued to speak, this time at the officer.

"I've been filled in on the circumstances, more or less". He stated, his expression dignified. "I'll take care of matters here, you all return to your posts at once".

"B-but, Lord Rufus, with all due respect-"

"I've already informed my father". Rufus informed before glaring at the soldier. "Or do you intend to embarrass me, beyond your other transgressions?"

Clearly cowering in fear, the officer ordered his soldiers to withdraw, while forcing the war-beasts to move, and as quickly as they could, they were gone.

"Oh, my… you can tell they're well trained, if nothing else". Sara said mockingly.

"The provincial army takes its training very seriously, of course". The 'ace of the Noble Alliance' answered. "…though I resent the mere notion that it could be misused so grievously".

"I'm sure you do!" The pink haired woman commented neutrally

"S-so, what brings you here, Instructor?" Machias asked after the footsteps from the soldiers could no longer be heard. "Seriously, why are you here?!"

"Your timing is a little too convenient". Fie supported.

"Did you come after receiving word from the provincial army?" Emma wondered.

"Nope! I actually heard about what was happening a little earlier from a friend of mine". The instructor answered. "As soon as the news reached my ears, I shot to my feet and got right in contact with the director here and he was kind enough to give me a ride on his airship back from the capital".

Every member of Group A blinked a few times, as if processing the information.

"I don't know what to say…" Rean trailed off with a grin while lightly shaking his head.

"Honestly, you seem to be prepared for virtually everything". Jusis supported, just before everyone noticed something in her words. "W-wait a second…"

"…'Director'?" Emma asked after the blond noble trailed off.

"Oh, you don't know yet, do you?" Sara asked, clearly amused.

"I also serve as a permanent member of the academy's board of directors; perhaps we'll have the opportunity to meet again in that capacity". Rufus answered.

"Wh-why is this the first I'm hearing of this?!" The younger of the two Albareas asked.

"I decided to keep it a secret so I could see the look on your face when you found out!" Jusis' older brother answered with a chuckle. "I'm not the only member of the board, though, of course; I'm simply one of three permanent members".

"That explains why you knew so much about Class VII…" Rean thought out loud.

"Way too prepared". Fie commented.

After Rufus said that he can't condone his father's actions they all left the underground waterway.

Group A immediately went back to the hotel, in need of a shower and rest.

The next morning.

Group A along with Instructor Sara said farewell to Rufus who seemed to have some business at Aurochs Fort and after gathering their things got in the train.

Once everyone got to their seats, several yawns were heard from the group of students, still not recovered from yesterday's ordeal.

"And you call yourselves teenagers!" Sara said with a sigh, sounding disappointed. "Unlike me, you actually get to go to sleep every night; you should be full of energy by this point of the day!"

"…didn't we have a similar conversation some time?" Rean wondered but didn't bother to continue that line of thought.

"Considering all that's happened this weekend, I think we can be forgiven for being a little tired". Emma defended.

"Well, that's certainly true enough". The older woman conceded.

Sara then mentioned that Group B also got caught up in a conflict between the two factions but didn't give any details other than that they managed to pull through.

Fie then asked, sounding a bit angry for some reason, about Aurochs Fort and its fortifications.

The instructor answered that the not only the provincial army, but the Imperial Army as well, was trying to improve its armaments; surprising Group A at hearing this

"How should the military academy… how should WE act in a situation like this?" The Class VII president asked.

"That's nothing you need to be worried about; not right now, at least". Sara answered. "You're ate the academy to learn, that's all you should be focusing on; while you're there, it's true that you may be forced to acknowledge some of the more unpleasant realities of Erebonia but I believe there's something special to be gained from that, something that you can only gain now… at this moment in time; so long as you're together with your friends and classmates, people for whom is no substitute". Everyone started in awe at the words coming from her. "Maybe when you graduate and go out into the world, much of what you've learned at Thors will have little meaning but I still believe that sometime, somehow, what you experience as part of Class VII will be an invaluable treasure to you; it may not seem that way now, but I know in my heart that it will".

There was an almost funeral silence when.

"Pff-HAHAHAHAHAHA!" Every member of Group A, including the ever stoic Fie, started to laugh their lungs out.

"Haha… y-you almost had me there for a moment". Machias said trying to stop his laughter.

"…that was the last thing I ever thought I'd hear from you". Jusis added in a similar state.

"H-hey! What's with all the laughing?!" Sara demanded while blushing in embarrassment.

"I-I'm really sorry…" Emma said, although it was a bit unconvincing when she was still trying to calm herself. "Your words were quite touching, but…"

"…coming out of your mouth, they were just…" Rean trailed off while clutching his stomach as he seemed to be about to start laughing again.

"…painfully droll". Fie finished, apparently already recovered from her laughing fit.

"Something we can only gain now, at this moment in time". Jusis started to repeat with a bad imitation of Sara's voice while trying to keep himself from laughing again. "So long as we're together with our friends and classmates… for whom there is no substitute".

"S-stop that! Are you trying to kill me?!" Machias said almost starting another laughing fit.

"Maybe when we graduate and go out into the world, m-much of what we've learned at T-Thors- pff hahaha, I can't I just can't!" Rean tried to continue where Jusis left but found himself laughing again, which triggered a chain reaction making the other re-start their own laughing fits.

"You kids are AWFUL! I was being serious, you know!" The pink haired woman yelled in annoyance. "Why must this instructor thing be so difficult sometimes…?" After those words, and seeing how Group A hadn't completely recovered yet, she got up, huffed and walked to sit somewhere else.

After a minute everyone finally calmed down.

"I think it's been a while since I laughed that much". Rean mentioned.

"Yeah, me too". Fie agreed.

Everyone sat in comfortable silence for a few seconds until Rean broke it.

"So, we have some time till we reach Trista, anyone up for some Blade?" He asked showing his two decks.

"I'd like to"

"Sure" Emma and Fie answered.

"And you two?"

"…I'd like to join as well".

"Me too". Jusis and Machias accepted making Rean grin.

After a quick rundown of the rules for the two new players, they started the game

BLOOPER

"So Jusis, how did you manage to get here?" Rean asked.

"Well, since you asked". Jusis answered.

Flashback, told by Jusis

'I have the target on sight'. Jusis said, wearing a black spy suit as he stood in the shadow and waited for a soldier to pass.

He then used a sound gadget and threw it away to distract the soldiers before taking an optic camera and passing the cable behind the door to see what was happening.

'All right, now'. He silently turned the knob before busting in and knocking everyone out while everything was in slow motion. 'Got the objective'. He took the key he was after and jumped out the window outside of the office to the garden, connecting a rope to the door so it would close and stop his landing.

He then ran towards the entrance to the underground passage and deciphered the twelve digits code in his first try before using the key to open the lock and chain.

'Done'. He got in and closed it behind him.

End of flashback

"I fought some monsters and then we met up".

"…if you didn't want to tell us, you can just say that". Fie said as everyone looked at him with a bored look, calling on his bluff.

Chapter Text

"Seven, I win". Fie said grinning after finishing playing a hand of Blade with Machias.

"Ghh… it's mostly luck anyway". The class vice president said looking away in annoyance.

"No, it's a clash of spirits!" Rean said completely serious. "It's because you think it's just luck that you lose".

"We should stop for now". Emma suggested, cutting off whatever answer Machias had.

"True, we're almost back in Trista". Jusis supported.

Fie and Machias collected the cards before passing them back to Rean.

They made some small talk and a few minutes later the train stopped at Trista station.

It was around five in the afternoon by the time they made it back to the dorm.

"Oh, you're back". Alisa said from the dining room, everyone in Group B was sitting at the table.

"Hey guys". Rean greeted. "Working on your reports?"

"Yes, Instructor Sara told us we should do them as soon as we're back". Laura answered.

"That's right; better write them while your memory is fresh". Said instructor confirmed. "As much as I would like to stay with you guys I've got to get to the campus, Group A, you start with your reports too; I want them all by the end of the day, toodles!" And with that she was gone from the dorm.

"Well, I guess we better go leave our things and start working on that". Jusis said as he started to walk towards the stairs.

"True, she said to have them ready by the end of the day after all". Machias agreed as he followed and both started to walk up the stairs.

"…was I seeing things or did they just talk without a fight breaking out?" Elliot asked, perplexed like the rest of Group B.

"Long story that we'll tell you once we're back". Rean answered as the rest of Group A did the same as the 'prideful warriors'.

Two minutes later and everyone was sitting at the table working while Rean, Emma and Fie took turns to tell them what happened between Jusis and Machias while the two of them pretended to ignore the conversation, the only response they got was from Jusis when they asked if he didn't mind them telling about his circumstances, he answered with 'Hmph, go right ahead, I already said that it would be rude to keep people in the dark'

"…so then we found an iron door in the way to the guardhouse's jail that Fie blew up, knocked two guards that showed up after she did the same with the door to Machias's cell, got caught by some military trained beasts while we were running away, we beat them, then the provincial army showed up and Rufus ended up saving us". Rean finished the summary.

"Wow, you had some real troubles during your field study". Elliot said after hearing the story.

"Indeed, you were lucky Jusis' brother showed up when he did". Gaius added.

"That's true, we would have been in a lot more trouble if he didn't". Emma agreed.

"But, how did Fie blew up those doors?" Alisa asked curiously.

"Emm… how did you call that thing again, Fie?" The Eight Leaves practitioner asked.

"Portable high-powered explosive". She answered. "Think of plastic that can explode".

"Why did you have such a thing with you?" Laura asked, the rest of Group B looking at her curiously.

"I have some in my room, I brought it with me". The silver haired girl told them.

"What?!" Machias yelled. "You have explosives in here?!"

"Relax, they're not armed". Fie assured him, not that it worked since he started lecturing her on why she shouldn't keep something so dangerous inside the dorm, not to mention her room.

Fie's answer was to once again cover her ears and say 'I can't hear you'.

"Could you please stop this useless yelling?" Jusis intervened. "We still need to write this and you should know that she won't listen to you".

"…grr, that's true". Machias conceded with a sigh. "But are you sure they won't explode?"

"Not unless I arm them or there is a fire". The gun-sword user confirmed.

"…I guess that will have to do for now". The class vice-president accepted that answer and went back to the report.

"So where did you learn how to handle explosives?" Gaius asked, once the situation was solved.

"I was a jaeger before coming to Thors, I learnt with the corps". There were two reactions at hearing this from the members of Group B; half of them, as in Elliot and Alisa, dropped their pens from the surprise while the other half, Laura and Gaius, slowly moved their heads to look at Fie, the one thing in common was that everyone's eyes went wide at hearing this information.

"A-a jaeger?!" Elliot yelled, voicing his group's surprise.

"Seriously?!" Alisa joined in the yelling.

"Yep". The silver haired girl answered simply.

"I knew that you had to have some sort of combat oriented background… but I certainly didn't expect that". Gaius said after getting over the initial surprise.

"We were surprised as well but in the end it doesn't really matter what her background is". Emma gave her opinion. "She is a member of Class VII now".

"Agreed". The foreigner of the group supported.

"Y-yeah, that's true". The red haired musician stammered, not because he didn't agree with that but because he was still trying to get over the shock.

"How to say this? It's kind of hard to believe that you were a jaeger since you usually seem to only want to sleep… but yeah, it doesn't really matter". The blond archer added. "Right Laura?"

"…yes, that is correct". Laura confirmed after a small silence.

The atmosphere got a bit awkward after that exchange until Rean broke the silence.

"I almost forgot; Jusis, Alisa, can I ask you two something?" Both of them looked at him and waited for the question. "Are all blondes tsunderes?"

…

"WHAT?!" Alisa yelled so loud that it rivaled, if not surpassed, Machias's screams when he talks about nobles.

"Again with that nonsense?" Jusis said looking away with a scowl.

"A tsundere?" Gaius asked, not been familiar with the term.

"It's when someone is cold or hostile to you until you get to know them". Fie explained. "That was it right, Emma?"

"Yes, that's right". The class president confirmed. "They also may say things like 'I didn't do it for you' or something to that effect after helping someone".

"Oh, I see". The tallest member of Class VII nodded with a hand on his chin.

"Where did that even come from?!" The female 'tsundere' questioned the black haired swordsman.

"Well, I don't know many blond people so maybe I'm just generalizing but you two tend to act like that from time to time".

"Wh- I don't!"

"Neither do I". Alisa and Jusis said in order.

"Last week, after Patrick left us alone because you interfered, remind me Gaius what were Jusis' words then?"

"Hmm… I don't remember his exact words but I do remember him saying something about him 'not trying to help you'" He answered after a few seconds of searching his memory.

"That seems conclusive". Fie said with a grin as the noble swordsman could only huff and look away.

"That might be so, but why are you saying I am one as well?!" Alisa asked stomping both her hands in the table.

"After that incident that I don't remember you kept trying to kill me with your glare until I apologized and you admitted I wasn't at fault". Rean answered making the archer flinch. "Then it was that time you seemed to want to ask me something but simply went 'It's nothing! I'll see you later!' while seeming mad out of nowhere, among some other situations".

"I-I don't sound like that at all!" The archer half yelled.

"Fair enough, I'm really bad at imitating people". He conceded before grinning. "But about the other thing?"

"Ghhh… hmph". Much like Jusis, Alisa chose to huff and look away while most of their classmates tried to control their laughs, some with more success than others.

After a minute or so everyone calmed down and returned to their reports.

"Oh, I've been meaning to ask, Instructor Sara mentioned that you had some trouble during your field study as well, what happened?" Emma asked curiously when three out of the four members of Group B, literally, flared up with an aura that screamed 'hostility'; by the way the one that wasn't emitting that aura was Gaius, even Elliot had that kind of aura around him… although to a lesser extent.

"…what happened?" Machias repeated after blinking a few times in surprise.

Alisa took a deep breath.

"One of the assignments of our second day was to recover an item for a noble that lives in the area". She began. "Apparently he had lost a pocket watch while he was out hunting and asked if we could recover it".

"There wasn't much trouble with that aside from some monsters that we had to defeat around the area, it took a while but we were able to find it". Gaius continued, still been the only one that didn't seem mad.

"Then I'm guessing the problem arrived when you were going to give it back to that noble". Jusis assumed.

"You could say that". Laura answered.

"We got separated because of another request about looking for a missing dog, we had time and there was some distance between the entrance of Saint Arkh that we used and the house of that noble so we decided to split and look around till we reached the house". Elliot explained.

"So?" Fie asked.

"Apparently that noble likes to take walks in the city and while I was looking around for the dog the pocket watch almost fell from my pocket and he happened to be passing by and saw it, so he assumed I stole it". Gaius finished.

"…what?" Rean asked, hoping he heard that wrong.

"He then called the guards and neither he nor they would hear Gaius' explanation, we heard the commotion since some of the commoners began to question the provincial army and why they were arresting him without proof, things seemed to be taking a turn for the worst". Laura continued.

"WHAT?!" Machias yelled as he got up and hit the table with both palms of his hands in anger.

"Didn't he see you when you went to ask about the request?" Jusis asked, clearly annoyed by this history.

"He would only allow Laura to go in". The red haired musician answered.

"Apparently he didn't want to 'allow just anyone to get inside his house', according to the guards". The archer added. "In their defense, the guards didn't seem too happy about having to relay that message"

"After the others showed up, we explained the situation and gave him the watch". Gaius said. "Although we had to show him our student notebooks and call the school for them to confirm that everything was true".

"S-So the situation was solved with that, right?" Emma asked.

"If only". Elliot answered making Group A worry.

"Our part on it at least was cleared up but the people of Saint Arkh were really angry with what happened". Alisa started to explain. "It didn't turn violent fortunately but it was really close to that".

"I remember one of them saying how 'you're only accusing him because he is a foreigner'… and I sadly agree with that statement, if it was one of us it is likely he would have asked before calling the guards". The blue haired swordswoman added.

"Luckily no one got hurt and we didn't have any problems afterwards". The one who should have been the angriest in the table, and was strangely the calmest, commented.

Group A's reaction was mostly the same with every member in disbelief or enraged after hearing that story.

"I can't believe it, things like that is why I can't stand nobles!" Machias declared, his face saying that he was considering asking for the name of that noble so he can hop on a train to Saint Arkh and punch him.

"Don't put me in the same group as someone like him". Jusis answered, clearly angry but doing a better job at keeping his cool.

"It's fine guys, no one was injured and it was sorted out". The lancer said calmly. "Besides, from what you told us, you had it worse than us".

"Maybe, but that doesn't make what happened in Saint Arkh any less outrageous". Emma answered.

"I'm surprised you're not angry at it, I'm not saying you should be screaming at the top of your lungs but you don't seem bothered at all". Fie mentioned.

"…you don't think that what happened is something normal, do you Gaius?" Rean asked his taller friend.

"I admit that the thought crossed my mind". He answered.

"WHAT?!" At least half of Class VII screamed.

"It's not norm-"

"Wait Alisa". Rean interrupted the archer before letting out a sigh. "I hate to say it but… what happened isn't something so strange".

"Are you serious Rean?!"

"I'm not saying it's fine". The swordsman answered the shotgun user. "Trust me I'm just as mad as you are but, ignoring how we may feel about it, can you honestly say that what happened is something so strange that could be considered abnormal?"

Machias seemed to be about to shout but only opened his mouth and nothing came out, he then closed it and sat back down with an uneasy expression that was shared by the other members of Class VII.

"Sadly, a noble jumping to conclusions and trying to abuse his power isn't something so strange, especially nowadays". Jusis finally broke the silence that seemed to have lasted a second too long.

"For the record, even if it isn't strange, no one here considers it correct". Emma spoke for Class VII, everyone nodding in agreement.

"Thanks". Gaius said smiling. "But we should get back to our reports, what's done is done and nothing good will come out from thinking about it".

Everyone agreed, although still annoyed, and went back to the reports.

By the time they finished it was around the time normal classes would end at the campus so everyone went to do their own thing.

Rean opted for going to the photography club's room, there were a good number of pictures he had to reveal and one in particular that he wanted to inspect a bit more if possible.

*Knock knock*

"It's open". The swordsman heard from the other side of the door.

"Hi Fidelio". Rean greeted the second year student.

"Oh, hello Rean, Class VII is back from the field study?"

"Yeah, we got here a few hours ago". He confirmed. "Can I use one of the rooms?" Rean asked while showing his camera.

"Sure, go right ahead".

With permission from the head of the photography club he got to work.

.

After he had revealed every picture he showed them to Fidelio.

"Hmm, it seems you took fewer pictures than last month". The second year commented while looking at the photos.

"Yeah, stuff happened and I couldn't take many on my second day". Rean answered with a shrug.

"I see, does it have anything to do with that picture you told me I couldn't see?"

After getting out of the dark room Rean had looked for the picture of that strange flying object that they saw on the first day and separated it from the rest, he told Fidelio that he didn't know what was on it and so he couldn't show it to him.

"No, or at least I don't think they're related, sorry again for not showing you that one".

"It's fine, I admit I'm curious but I'm not going to force you to show it to me". The brown haired teen assured him with a smile as he kept passing through the pictures.

"Thanks". The Eight Leaves practitioner answered. "By the way, where is Rex? I thought most people with club activities went to their clubs after class".

"…he should be here soon". Fidelio answered a bit hesitant.

"Something wrong?"

"N-no, it's nothing".

Rean tilted his head a bit in confusion but didn't press the issue.

They talked for a while about the pictures before he left the room.

'I'll go pay Towa a visit'. Rean thought since he was already in the Student Union building anyway.

He walked to the door and knocked on it, a second later Towa told him to enter.

"Hey To…" Rean trailed off at the middle of saying her name since she was nowhere to be seen, what he did see was a giant pile of papers in the desk she uses. "…wa".

"Oh, hi Rean, good work on your field study". The student council president said leaning to the side so she is seen.

"…Towa".

"Yes?"

"Why is there so much paperwork here?"

"It's not that much".

"You could build a fortress with that amount". Rean countered, causing the older girl to chuckle nervously.

"Well… certain things came up and Instructor Sara asked me if I could check a few things regarding the field studies and I had already promised Instructor Neithardt and Instructor Mary that I would take care of the order for some material they need for their classes, before I knew it all these papers were in my desk".

Rean could only stare between Towa and the ridiculous amount of papers going back and forth between them; he did this for around half a minute before sighing.

"I'll give you a hand". He declared, already moving to grab one of the towers of papers.

"W-wait, you just came back you should rest at least till tomorrow".

"I won't be able to rest with the image of you locked up in here with this much work in my head" The swordsman answered. "And I am more stubborn than you". With those words he started to sort through the papers.

Towa blinked a few times before chuckling and returning to a normal sitting position.

"Thanks Rean"

"Don't mention it".

.

.

'How, how in the name of fluffy and delicious pancakes can the student council have this much work?' Rean thought pinching the bridge of his nose. 'It's a good thing I didn't bring my sword with me or I would have probably ended up cutting these things in half like I told Gaius'.

"Rean, you can go back if you want". Towa offered, her eyes glued in the papers.

"Thanks but no thanks". He answered. "We're almost done".

Between the two of them the amount of papers had been reduced to a 'normal amount' sort of speak, there was still a long way to go but at least it didn't seem like the work that you would need to be Dreichels himself to be able to see it to the end.

"Thank you again for the help, you are probably still tired from the field study".

"Not gonna lie, I am pretty tired, but like I told you before I couldn't rest knowing you are trapped here with all this work".

"Hehe, you're too kind". Towa said giggling. "So how did your field study go?"

"…it could have gone better".

Rean answered before giving her a short version of what happened.

.

"I see". The student council president said once he finished his story. "It seems you had a lot of trouble".

"Yeah, between last month and what happened yesterday… wow it feels weird to think that was just yesterday… but yeah, I feel like our field studies are only going to get more and more convoluted". The swordsman answered with a heavy sigh. "I may need to take you up on that offer for tea sooner than later".

"Hehe, it'll be my pleasure".

They kept working while making some small talk and eventually.

"Done". Rean said weakly while leaning back on his seat.

"Really thank you for helping me out Rean". Towa said moving two cups of tea to the table in the room.

"Again, don't mention it". He answered taking his cup. "Hey Towa".

"Yes?"

"Hmm, how can I say it?" He murmured trying to come up with the right words. "I don't think I'm in any position to tell you how to do your job, especially since you do a great one, but if you always agree to do the others' part then it will end up been more than you can handle eventually… or at least that's what I think".

"Yeah…" Towa trailed off with a nervous chuckle. "Crow has told me that a few times too, Angie and George as well". She took a sip of her cup before continuing. "It's not that I don't get why they say that, I even agree with you four".

"But?"

"It's just… I feel like the more work I do the easier it is for others to do other more important works… maybe I'm just thinking it too much?"

"Hehe, you have to be one of the most selfless people I will ever know" Rean said with a chuckle embarrassing the second year a bit. "Well, if you can't say no then at least make sure to ask for help if it becomes too much for you to handle".

"Thank you Rean… hmm, then can I ask your help on something?"

"If it's more paperwork I will make sure to deal with it". The black haired teen said already thinking on how to use the eighth form of the Eight Leaves to pummel it to death, even if it was just a piece of paper.

"N-no, don't worry we're finished with the paperwork" Towa assured him, a bit quickly seeing the expression on his face. "You see, we had some requests coming in and most of them aren't the type anyone can do in just one free day, you don't have to consider them your first priority, but would you mind seeing if you can take care of them from time to time?"

"Sure, I'll be happy to help". He assured her. "I was actually thinking that it was weird the requests I get on my free days are usually the type I can finish in the same day, I'm guessing you choose them because of it".

"Yeah, since you have to go and explore the old schoolhouse I thought it would be better if I didn't give you any request that takes up too much of your time".

"Thanks Towa".

"Don't mention it".

"Do you have those requests with you?"

"Oh, one of the other members has the list, would you mind coming here tomorrow after classes are over?"

"No problem".

After some small talk they left the campus since it was already late.

The next day after classes was over Rean made his way to the student council room as promised and got the list of requests.

Towa apparently had made plans to go hang out with Crow, Angelica and George so he left her to get ready.

'Well, guess I should get started with this' He thought after leaving the student union building. 'Let's see this list-'

"Oh, hi Rean". His thoughts were interrupted when a familiar voice called out to him, when he turned in its direction he saw one of the twins of the academy.

"Hey… Vivi". Rean answered after making sure who was approaching him.

"Aww, how did you know? I even made my hair like my sister". Vivi complained while undoing the braids.

"Your… 'aura' I think would be the right word, told me, I had a feeling you would try and change places again so I checked".

"Aura?" She repeated a bit confused earning a nod.

"So what are you doing?"

"I was in my way to the gardening club". She answered. "Want to walk there with me?"

"…sure, I guess". The swordsman answered with a shrug and both started to walk to the gardening club.

"So what is this 'aura' thing you mentioned?" Vivi asked, honestly curious.

"Hmm, I'm not sure how to explain it… something like your own unique 'presence' that I can tell apart from others… sorry, I really don't think I could give you a better explanation than that".

"It's fine, so that's how you could tell I wasn't my sister?" Rean nodded 'yes'. "Are you sure it wasn't because of our chest size?"

The black haired teen almost tripped at hearing that out of nowhere.

"Of course not". He answered after regaining his balance. "Wait, you have different chest size?"

"Kyaa, don't stare Rean". Vivi half screamed while covering her upper body with her arms.

"…you're pulling my leg aren't you?"

"Yep". She said with a grin. "For the record, our chest sizes are the same".

"I'll be sure to remember that vital piece of information". The member of Class VII said sarcastically.

"I'm sure you will~".

"So how is the gardening club?" Rean asked to change the subject.

"It's fun, it's also a great place to think about pranks, I can even ask my sister to change places with her as one".

"Huh, is that why Gaius mentioned that Linde acts different every now and then?"

"Hehe, probably, I'm surprised he hasn't noticed".

"You do know I'm friends with him and can tell him about this, right?"

"…could you not?"

Rean simply chuckled while shaking his head in amusement.

"So, why do you like to prank people so much?"

"Hmm… it's my calling". Maybe she was thinking that he would forget about telling Gaius or that this answer was what he wanted in exchange of silence, either way Vivi chose to answer.

"…that's…" He trailed off not sure of how to respond to that.

"I just have fun pranking people; of course I never go 'too' overboard".

"So just a 'little' overboard then?"

Vivi simply smiled mischievously, not confirming or denying that statement.

"Am I going to be a victim of yours again?"

"Oh Rean, do you honestly think I would tell you either way?" The swordsman was about to answer but instead closed his mouth and shrugged as if saying 'fair enough'

"Hi Vivi". Someone from the gardening club said, a girl wearing the nobles' uniform with violet eyes and green emerald hair, in addition she is wearing a straw hat.

"Oh, hi Edel". She greeted back. "She is the head of the gardening club Edel and this is Rean a member of Class VII who offered to escort me here".

"You were the one to ask if I wanted to come along with you". Rean answered before turning to Edel. "Nice to meet you".

"Nice to meet you too… aren't you the guy that took a nap near the lake last week?" Edel asked.

"Yeah, that was me; Class VII had a practical exam that day and… let's say it was really tiring".

"Fie mentioned it, you asked her to watch over you, right?"

"I'm not exactly comfortable sleeping outside without a care in the world, plus Vivi was near and I'm sure she would have attempted a prank on me".

"'Would have?'; I feel insulted, do you honestly think I wouldn't try just because Fie was watching?" The pink haired girl asked with a smirk.

"Fair point". The member of Class VII conceded.

"Rean?" A new voice asked from the garden.

"Hi Fie". The aforementioned greeted.

"What are you doing here?"

"I-"

"He offered to escort me as the gentleman he is". Vivi quickly said while hugging the swordsman's arm with both of her own.

Fie stared with her signature boring look, already aware that she wasn't serious.

"Vivi please don't use me to trick people". Rean answered with a sigh. "We ran into each other when I was coming out of the student union building and she asked if I wanted to accompany her". The prank loving girl pouted as she let go of his arm. "Are you growing something?"

"Edel is giving some tips". Fie answered when she noticed the paper in his hand. "What's that?"

"Hmm? Oh, I'm helping out the student council with some requests". The Eight Leaves practitioner answered.

"I thought you only did that on free days". The gun-sword user commented.

"I helped out Towa yesterday with some paperwork and offered to help her… trust me anyone would be compelled to do the same if they saw the amount of work she has".

"Hoo, so you're in good terms with the president?" Vivi asked mischievously.

"I guess". Rean answered honestly, not paying attention to her tone. "And on that note, I should go and see about these requests, see ya later".

"See ya at the dorm". Fie waved goodbye.

"Feel free to come visit me". Vivi also waved.

"Come on you two, we have to get back to the garden". Edel reminded and the three went back to their club activities.

'Alright, let's check this list now'. He opened the envelope containing the requests.

It was… a long list to say the least but since this aren't like the requests Rean gets on his free days and there isn't a time limit for them he expected as much.

'I guess I'll work my way down, first request is…'

The rest of the day was spent going to talk to different people about the requests they sent, among them were finding a missing dog from a family in the city, act as a bodyguard for an engineer that needed to check one of the lamps in the Trista highway, that one was going to be done later on because the engineer needed to prepare a few things, a few miscellaneous things from some of the students in Thors and so on.

Rean couldn't finish any of them at the time, although the only one he really did pay attention to was the find the missing dog since he could do that while walking around, but there was no luck.

In the end he went back to the dorm after getting something from Kirsche and ate with Elliot and Gaius before going to sleep.

A few days passed by with nothing of note happening, he helped with the miscellaneous things, like finding a few books for students to help with certain classes, not every day though; Towa said that he didn't have to give the requests first priority and he very much enjoyed spending time with the others in Class VII or practicing his swordsmanship so he decided to follow her advice on that and pace himself instead of trying to do everything in one go.

Today though, was the day the engineer, Mark, said he was going to go check on that lamp.

He was a man around his mid-thirties with brown hair and eyes and wearing a jumpsuit like George's except his was blue while George's was yellow, he also had a toolbox in his right hand.

Both of them were in the east Trista highway going towards the lamp that was apparently malfunctioning.

"So for some reason that lamp loses power too quickly, right?" Rean asked to make conversation.

"Yeah, we didn't notice at first but every time we exchange the bulb it's out of order in the next two to three days so there must be something wrong with the lamp". Mark answered. "As for what that is, I can't say until I check, sorry for having you act as a bodyguard kid".

"Don't worry about it; I'm the one that accepted the request after all". The swordsman assured him.

They made some small talk while walking in the highway, the lamp they needed to check was a good distance away from the town after all but-

"Hmm?"

"Something wrong Rean?" Mark asked noticing he stopped walking.

"Is that the lamp we're supposed to check?" The teen asked pointing at one of the road lamps that wasn't emitting any light.

"Wha… it should be further down the road, maybe this one needs a lightbulb change". The engineer answered. "But let's be cautious, I'll check to see if this one has something wrong, keep an eye out for monsters".

"Got it".

The man got to work while Rean stood near him looking around the place so they aren't jumped on.

"Huh? That's weird".

"Something wrong?"

"Yeah, this lamp-"

"Wait". Rean interrupted. "Oh, crap; grab your things and prepare to run".

The brown haired man didn't waste time doing just that, the expression on the student's face telling him this wasn't the time to argue, before long he had his toolbox secured in his right hand.

"What is it kid?"

"We're surrounded". The black haired teen answered a hand already in the hilt of his sword. "Walk slowly, maybe they won't attack".

Both did that, slowly backing away but at the three steps mark several wolf-like monsters jumped from the foliage.

"Damn it, run!"

They immediately did just that gaining some distance from the monsters, Rean stopped for a moment to send an 'Arc slash' at the wolves but it didn't do anything aside from forcing them to dodge.

Luckily the monsters stopped their pursuit as soon as they reached the next lamp.

"Phew, that was dangerous". Mark said with his hands on his knees trying to get his breath back.

"Yeah, it was weird though, it almost seemed like they were organized". Rean answered. "Even if their type usually travels in packs it's strange to see that many together".

"Well… phew, the weirdness doesn't stop there let me tell you". The older man answered. "That lamp had signs of been damaged, as if something or someone hit it till it broke".

"What… but who, and why?"

"I don't know kid, I doubt that it's just a coincidence though, the other lamp probably has similar damage but monsters don't get close to them and I can't think of a reason for a person to go and do that".

Rean moved a hand to his chin in thought but in the end there was nothing he could make out of the situation.

"Sorry but let's go back for today, they could still be out there and I don't think I can keep that many monsters at bay on my own".

"Good plan, better to be safe".

They both made their way back in silence trying to find a reason anyone would do that.

After getting back Rean told Mark that he would ask some of his friends if they could give him a hand next time they go to investigate and then went their separate ways.

'Dusk already huh?' Rean thought looking at the sunlight that was almost fading. 'That took longer than I thought; guess I'll go back to the dorm'.

.

As Rean entered the dorm he saw.

"Oh, hi Jusis".

"Hmm? Hello". The blond noble greeted back, he was sitting in one of the couches of the first floor with a book in his hand. "How did that thing with a lamp in the highway go?"

"It could have gone better". The black haired teen answered with a sigh.

"What happened?"

Rean then told him what happened.

"I see, if I'm free next time you need to check on that I can accompany you".

"Thanks, I'll let you know, what are you reading by the way?"

"Remember that book you recommended to me?"

"Red Moon Rose?"

"Exactly, I just finished the first volume"

"Oh, that one ends in a cliffhanger doesn't it?" Jusis nodded 'yes'. "I have up to the fifth volume; I can lend them to you if you want".

"…thanks, I would appreciate it".

"I'll go get the second volume". Rean said walking up the stairs and into his room.

.

'Let's see, I know I put it somewhere around here'. The Eight Leaves practitioner thought while rummaging through his books. 'There it is'. He moved to grab it but another book got his attention, his recipe book. 'Hmm… it can't hurt to ask, then again I thought the same about making small talk with Machias… whatever, let's ask'. He grabbed both books and went back downstairs.

.

"Sorry for the wait, here is the book". Rean said handing over the second volume of Red Moon Rose.

"It's fine, I appreciate you lending it to me". Jusis answered.

"By the way, would you mind helping me cook?" The blond noble actually blinked a few times before looking at his fellow member of Class VII.

"You want me to help you cook?" The black haired teen nodded 'yes'. "Why? I don't have much experience and why do you even want to cook in the first place?"

"Well, I get tired of Kirsche and the cafeteria's food every time so if I feel like to I don't see why not cook ourselves".

"Fair enough, but why are you asking me?"

"Because you know this recipe better than me". Rean said showing him his recipe book and what he wanted to make.

"This is…"

"Yeah, your uncle gave us the recipe". The Eight Leaves practitioner confirmed. "So, want to help?"

"…Hmph, I don't have a reason to say no". The son of the Albarea household answered with a small smile as both teens walked to the kitchen.

They made enough food for everyone in the dorm and that night they all ate dinner together.

Machias and Jusis entered a banter when the first one mentioned how he was 'surprised a noble would deign themselves to make food for the rest of us' but everyone could tell that it was simply messing with each other rather than actually fighting like before.

BLOOPER

While Rean and Towa were making small talk after finishing with the paperwork someone knocked on the door and entered carrying a tower of papers.

"You have to be kidding". Rean thought out loud.

"Is that more paperwork?" Towa asked calmly.

"No, it's just some papers that need to be shredded but the shredder broke, do you mind if we put them in a corner till it's fixed?" The member of the student council asked.

"Allow me". Rean said grabbing a trash can and putting it beneath the papers the student was still holding. "Just hold them there for a sec please".

Both Towa and the student looked at him curiously when.

"Ohhhh ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-ATA-" He started to repeatedly hit the stack of papers on various places at tremendous speed with his fists, he kept going for some time before finally stopping.

"Eh, Rean…"

As Towa trailed off Rean pointed at the stack of papers with his right index finger and.

"They're already shred".

Suddenly the papers exploded in a million pieces that fell in the trash can.

"WHAT?!" The student yelled in confusion.

Chapter Text

'Great, this again'. Jusis Albarea thought while suppressing a scowl.

The day had started normally for the noble from one of the Four Great Houses, even better than usual since he didn't have to participate on a glaring contest with Machias when they happened to leave their rooms at the same time; he wouldn't say they were friends but, compared to before, they could at least have a conversation, not that either was actively trying to start a talk with the other but still.

Usually, he would just ignore the situation he was in right now but today had been… exhausting.

The morning had started like any other; he got up in a good mood, partly because of the diner last night, and had gotten ready for school.

The only thing out of the ordinary that day was how Instructor Sara seemed to be in a strange good mood, as in when she wiped the floor with him, Machias and Rean not too long ago good.

He asked her if something happened but she avoided the question as usual, the only thing he got was how 'today's training combat is going to be interesting' which could mean any number of things.

By some strange coincidence he ended up leaving at the same time as Laura and Elliot and walking to school with them.

"S-so… there is a nice weather today…" Elliot trailed off, that been his best attempt at breaking the ice.

'It seems he's still too conscious of the fact I'm a noble'. Jusis thought.

"Yes there is". Laura finally answered.

"It's a good day for club activities". The blond noble supported.

"Oh, you joined a club Jusis?" The blue haired girl asked.

"Yes, the Riding Club".

"That one uses the field for practice, right?" Elliot asked.

"Sometimes we go to the highway but yes… although it might be a good idea to avoid the highway for some time".

"Oh, you mean because of what Rean mentioned?" Laura inquired.

"It's a bit disturbing to think that someone might have been sabotaging the lamps". The orbal staff user gave his opinion. "What could they gain from it?"

"I can't think of any reason for it, the lamps are what keep the monsters away from the roads and, by extension, the cities; sabotaging them could only bring negative results". Laura answered.

"There is still no reason to believe it was sabotage". Jusis interjected. "It could have been that someone was coming to the city and had an accident but didn't think it damaged the lamp; although if it turns out that the second lamp has similar damage that theory is probably incorrect".

"Jusis Albarea". Someone called out to the blond noble, standing near the entrance to the threshold where Thors starts; he is a noble, judging by the white uniform, with orange hair and green eyes and of average height.

"Do you need anything of me?" Jusis asked neutrally.

"I just thought you would like to walk with us". The orange haired noble said gesturing for a few friends that were walking towards them from the first dormitory. "Of course the daughter of Viscount Arseid is welcome as well". He added looking at Laura with a friendly expression, which instantly changed when he saw Elliot. "I'm sure you would prefer a different type of company".

The musician mumbled something, not sure how to respond to this situation.

"I am perfectly fine with the company I have at the moment". The swordswoman answered first, not showing hostility, just a neutral expression.

"As am I, I would advise that you do not assume to know what other people prefer in the future". Jusis supported as they once again started to walk, Elliot quickly following, and left the noble and his friends behind.

.

"Phew, thanks you two". The green eyed teen said after they were a good distance away from the other nobles. "I don't know how to talk to nobles"

"…you do realize who you're talking to, right?" Jusis asked, reminding him that he and Laura are both nobles.

"I-I know, it's just… it's easier to talk with you guys because you don't make it seem like there is a difference between us". He answered. "A part of it is probably because I got used to talking with you after all this time, too".

Their conversation was cut short when they heard the bell ringing and they picked up the pace to avoid been late.

During political economics the vice principal Heinrich had asked a question to Jusis, after he answered correctly the vice principal started to go on and on about how it was obvious how a noble from one of the Four Houses would be able to easily answer that, it was a miracle he didn't used up all the time in class with his ramblings.

Now it was lunch time and, like some other days, a few nobles of both first and second year had gathered outside Class VII's classroom to invite Jusis over.

'One would think they would get the hint by now'. The blue eyed noble thought while pinching the bridge of his nose in annoyance. 'Let's just get this over with'. He got up and started to walk out of the classroom, immediately one of the students asked him if he wanted to go to the third floor of the Student Union Building.

"I already made plans". He answered before walking away, not so fast as to draw attention but enough so he was at the stairs and out of sight in just a few seconds.

He lied about having plans but in his experience it's a lot easier to get them to leave him in peace if he said he had something else to do.

'I guess I'll go to the Student Union building and get something to eat'. If he ends up running into one of them he can say that he only went to grab some food and was leaving.

Sadly, that didn't go as planned which in turn led to the situation he was in right now.

"Oh, Jusis Albarea". The same noble from the morning called out to him. "What a coincidence to find you here".

"…I don't believe I ever got your name". Jusis answered.

"Oh, that was my mistake; I'm Adam third son of Count Hartmann". Adam answered. "As it just so happens me and my friends were about to go to the third floor, would you like to join us?"

"I already have plans".

"Oh, may I ask what they are?" Although it sounded polite, Jusis noted the small smirk in his face.

'So you're been insistent, huh?' "I don't think it is any of your business what I do in my spare time".

"Oh, of course not, I'm just rather curious as to what someone of your status likes to do when he's free it's all; I don't think it's too much to ask what is it that you're going to do now, is it?"

A part of him REALLY wanted to tell him to go away but another part of him, one that Jusis isn't particularly proud of but is there nonetheless, told him that it could bring trouble to his father so he restrained himself.

'What can I say to get him to go away?' Out of the corner of his eyes he saw a possible way out in a table near the entrance to the building, although not one that he was particularly thrilled about. 'Let's just get this over with'. "I made plans to have lunch with one of my classmates, he's sitting there". Jusis pointed to a table where Machias was sitting and started to walk towards it, leaving Adam behind with a scowl.

.

"…what are you doing?" The Class VII vice president asked when Jusis came to the table and casually sat down.

"Choosing the lesser of two evils". He answered with a sigh earning a confused look from his classmate. "Some nobles wanted me to go with them to the third floor, I said that I had plans to get them to go away but one of them asked what those plans were and you happened to be here".

"So you're using me as an excuse to avoid the nobles?"

"I would prefer to call it asking for a favor but that is one way to look at it". Jusis answered honestly. "Would you prefer if I leave?"

Machias thought about it for a few seconds.

"…you can stay, it's already a miracle the third floor doesn't collapse with the combined weight of all those nobles' heads; yours might be the last straw". He answered with a smug smirk.

"Hmph, how you can get any knowledge from books with that hard head of yours will always amaze me". The blond swordsman answered with a similar expression.

Both then started to eat in silence.

"What do you think Instructor Sara will…" Rean had entered the student union building along with Elliot and Gaius but trailed off on whatever he was saying after seeing Jusis and Machias in the same table.

"What the…" The three of them had to blink a few times to make sure they weren't seeing things.

Eventually they got over the shock and walked over to them.

"Wh-what…" All right, maybe not 'completely' over the shock yet.

Both of them sighed before Jusis told them how this situation came about.

"I see". Gaius answered after hearing the story.

"You guys mind if we join you?" Rean asked. "We're all here already after all".

"I don't have a problem with that".

"Go ahead".

After the three new arrivals got their food they joined the table.

"So what were you saying about Instructor Sara?" Machias asked.

"Oh, we were just wondering what is going to happen during combat training". Elliot answered him.

"She mentioned that it was going to be 'interesting' but we can't come up with an answer to what that could mean". Gaius added.

"My best guess would be something related to the ARCUS but I can't imagine anything beyond that". Jusis commented.

They spent lunch trying to come up with an answer but in the end they went back to classes empty-handed.

The answer came rather quickly, though.

"I hope everyone has been having a wonderful day". Class VII's homeroom teacher said smiling widely. "Because you're probably gonna be re~ally frustrated after the training is over".

That got every member of Class VII curious and, some, a bit worried.

"What exactly will we be doing?" Laura asked what was on everyone's minds.

"I'm glad you asked, today we will be doing an absolutely essential part of your training with the combat links". Sara answered. "Now listen closely". Class VII stared at the older woman curiously. "Today". They leaned a bit closer and. "We'll be playing rock-paper-scissors!"

During the next twenty seconds the only thing that was heard in Thors' field was the sound of the wind.

"So, should we start with the usual?" Jusis asked his fellow classmates.

"Yes, I think that would be for the best". Alisa agreed.

"Hey, what do you think you're saying? I'm being serious here".

"Wait… we're really going to play rock-paper-scissors?" Rean asked in genuine shock.

"You should wait till I'm done with my explanation before jumping to conclusions". Sara said smirking. "You're not going to be playing normal rock-paper-scissors, there will be a special rule".

"A special rule?" Emma repeated.

"Yes, you can only win if both participants choose the same thing, anything else is a loss". The instructor declared.

"If both choose the same thing?" Elliot repeated a bit confused.

"Obviously we would have to use the combat links for it". Fie mentioned.

"Isn't that too easy to do then?" Alisa wondered.

"Oho, so you think it's easy huh?" Sara asked smirking playfully. "Then Alisa and… Laura, you two get along well don't you?"

"Yes".

"I believe so". They answered.

"Then we have our first participants". The two students took a few steps forward "So, as I said, it's normal rock-paper-scissors but you can only win if you choose the same thing, you're also forbidden any type of communication except for combat links, understood?" Both girls nodded. "Great, go ahead then".

Alisa and Laura both formed a combat link.

'There must be some sort of trick to this'. Jusis thought paying close attention to what will happen.

Alisa and Laura both prepared and… normally, Laura would have won with rock beats scissors, but due to the special rule they both lose.

"Huh?" Alisa made that sound in confusion. "I was sure I was thinking of using scissors".

"I was thinking of rock but the feeling got a bit fuzzy before we showed our hands".

"Not so easy after all, right?" Sara said, apparently expecting this result. "Does anyone have any idea why this happened? Don't be shy there won't be any punishment if you get it wrong".

Everyone stood in silence for a moment trying to figure out what happened.

"Is it… because both were thinking only of transmitting what they would be using?" Jusis asked.

"Oh, not bad Jusis". The older woman congratulated. "That is correct; as you all are well aware by now the combat links allow you to sense your linked person's movements and actions, and even transmit where you want someone to hit or be so you can make a plan without even having to actually talk".

"Then why did we get it wrong?" Alisa asked.

"Because both of you were only 'talking', sort of speak".

"Hmm, so we weren't 'listening' to what the other was saying through the link?" Laura inquired.

"That's one way to put it". Sara answered. "In the middle of a battle there are times when you won't be able to tell others that you have a plan and they should follow, that's why is important to know when to 'listen'".

"But Instructor, why has this not come up till now?" Rean asked. "All of us were in combat situations where we didn't have time to talk but didn't have this sort of problem".

"I'm honestly surprised about that too". Class VII's homeroom teacher admitted. "I thought that after the first field study you would notice this and ask me about it, but according to the reports there was nothing of the sort happening; the closest thing would be the issue with Jusis and Machias but that was a problem between them".

The two grumbled a bit after hearing that.

"But… why did it not happen?" Elliot asked.

"Beats me". The instructor shrugged. "My best guess would be that you either consciously or unconsciously accepted someone as your 'leader' so you only had to 'listen' to your combat link with them". Everyone thought about it for a bit but was interrupted when the pink haired woman clapped her hands. "You can try and figure that out later if you want, for now form pairs and try to win on rock-paper-scissors, remember no talking and if possible try to realize when to 'listen' and when to 'talk' don't just do one or the other".

The rest of the time was spent with Class VII shuffling partners until everyone was able to win two times in a row with everyone, , although most of those were simply coincidences and they knew it.

During homeroom Sara told them that they should try and practice rock-paper-scissors every now and then with the others, not as and order but as a suggestion.

The next few days went by with nothing particularly interesting happening aside from Adam proving he can be really stubborn, it seemed like every time Jusis wasn't in class or club he would approach him and try to talk, and in all honesty he was getting tired of him and of having to make up an excuse to get him to go away.

'It was a good thing I actually had a reason to go away from him today'. Jusis thought as he, Rean, Fie, Elliot, Gaius and Alisa were escorting Mark the engineer to see about those lamps.

Rean had already explained to his classmates about what happened and asked if they could help; Fie, Elliot and Gaius had agreed first, the riding club had a day off because of a problem in the stables so Jusis was free and Alisa asked permission in the lacrosse club.

Machias said that there was something happening in the chess club but didn't elaborate any further, Emma had already promised to read something one of her friends at the literature club wrote, for some reason she seemed flushed when she mentioned that and Laura had club activities.

'Although she didn't seem too keen on accompanying us, I would think this would be something she would be eager to do with how serious she is about her swordsmanship'. Jusis thought but didn't linger on it any further.

After Rean had introduced everyone to Mark and vice versa, with Jusis having to ask that he treats him the same way as Rean who's also a noble they went on their way; the engineer seemed surprised after hearing that about the Eight Leaves practitioner but it didn't come as anything odd to the members of class VII, Rean doesn't go around saying he is a noble after all.

After around half an hour they finally reached the first lamp that needed repairs.

"Keep your eyes open, last time those wolves managed to ambush us". Rean said.

"Did you have your guard down?" Fie asked.

"I wasn't exactly trying to sense enemies but I wouldn't say I had my guard down".

"We'll be careful". Gaius assured his friend.

"I can't do that 'sensing' thing but I'll keep my eyes open". Alisa answered.

"How soon can you have the lamp repaired?" Jusis asked the engineer.

"Hmm… depending on the damage, around twenty minutes; I'll tell you if it turns out it will take longer". Mark answered.

"…the sooner the better, they're here". The youngest member of Class VII suddenly said.

From the trees and bushes around Trista highway several wolves started to show themselves.

"Oh crap". Mark said gulping.

"How should we approach this?" Elliot asked.

"Elliot". Rean called out. "You and Alisa go near Mark; Gaius, Jusis you two protect that half, Fie and I will take this one, everyone okay with that?"

"Ja".

"Yes".

"Hmph, I don't have any complaints".

"That's fine by me".

"Got it". They all answered.

"Alright, don't let them get close!"

.

.

The next twenty or so minutes were spent fighting off the wolves that just seemed to keep coming no matter how many times they hit them.

But as soon as Mark finished the repairs and turn the lamp on all of them fled.

"Phew…is everyone okay?" Rean asked panting a bit, he received several responses of 'yes', any injury they had already healed thanks to arts.

Their clothes would need a few patches, though.

"Thanks for protecting me guys, I don't even want to think what would have happened if I was alone". The engineer thanked them.

They all shared a chuckle in relief when all of the sudden everyone, even the ones that can't 'sense' enemies, froze.

"What the…" Jusis trailed off looking in the direction he felt that presence, the same as everyone else.

They couldn't see much but whatever was hiding in the foliage had bright red eyes and was practically oozing killing intent.

They're not sure for how long they stood there with their weapons at the ready looking at those eyes but whatever that was, it eventually went away.

"What was that?!" Alisa half yelled with a gulp.

"I don't know". Gaius answered, still gripping his spear and his eyes darting in every direction for signs of that… 'thing'.

"Sorry, but let's postpone the repairs for the other lamp". Rean apologized.

"Y-yeah, I had enough emotions for one day". The older man agreed.

The way back was spent with everyone but Rean having their weapons out in case that 'thing' appeared again, and the only reason he had it in his sheath was so he could quick draw with the less amount of wasted movement, his right hand never left the hilt of the weapon till they entered Trista.

"Well… that was an experience". Jusis commented once everyone entered the town.

"That's one way to say it". Alias answered.

"My legs are still shaking". Elliot thought out loud.

"Hey, thanks for the help… but I think I'll ask someone else next time". Mark suddenly said.

"Why?" Gaius asked, clearly confused.

"Don't get me wrong, you kids did a fantastic job but… that 'thing', I'm no fighter and even I can tell that it's not something you want to mess with, sorry but I can't in good conscience ask you to risk your lives against it".

"We were already risking them by fighting the wolves". Fie countered.

"That's different, you were able to handle them or are you saying that you can fight that red-eyed monster?" The engineer said back.

"…it's true, to be honest I'm not sure if we can fight it". Rean admitted. "But we also aren't going to quit mid-way".

"That's commendable but I can't, and I won't, ask you to do that". The brown haired man insisted.

"When are you going to try and fix that lamp again?" Jusis asked out of nowhere.

"Emm… I was planning to have this job finished today so I already took another one, early July would be the next time I can take a look if no one hires another engineer for it, why are you asking?"

"When you're going again let us know, we will be stronger by then". The blond noble declared.

"Strong enough to face that thing?"

"I can't be sure of that but no one here wishes to stop because of fear" The rest of Class VII nodded, making the engineer sigh.

"Teenagers can be so reckless…fine, but if that thing appears I want you to prioritize your own lives first, and I'll say that again in July, are we clear?"

The teens all nodded in agreement and after that they parted ways with the older man.

"Well, let's go back". They were about to do just that when.

"Oh, Jusis Albarea".

'Not this guy again'. Jusis inwardly sighed. "Can I help you with anything, Adam Hartmann?"

"I just so happened to pass by and saw you… what happened?! Your clothes are a mess" The other noble exclaimed looking Jusis over before glaring at the others from Class VII. "Hey, what the hell happened, how did you allow him to get in this state?!"

"We-"

"Don't even try to make up some excuse!" Adam interrupted.

The next few minutes he kept rambling about how they 'should have protected Jusis more' or 'you are not worthy of been in his company'.

"Come with me, Jusis Albarea, in the first dorm the maids will-"

"Enough". Jusis snapped and smacked Adam's hand away. "If you're reason for talking to me is to try and gain favor with the house of Albarea then let me know you are doing just the opposite".

The brown haired noble visibly flinched.

"I-I have no such intentions, I m-merely-".

"The reason for our current state is a fight we had with some monsters in the highway just a few minutes ago" The blond swordsman interrupted. "And just to be clear, none of them had any sort of duty to protect me beyond what they did, they had my back during the fight and I did the same in return, whatever strange line of thinking that led you to think they are beneath me is the result of your own foolishness and since you seem to be unable to take a hint I'll say it plainly". Jusis made a pause and glared at him. "I do not wish for your company, if you have a problem with that then it is none of my business so stop trying to act like we're friends and leave me alone".

"I…I…" Adam clenched his teeth and gulped before turning around and walking away.

"Finally". Jusis said with a sigh of relief… before noticing the amused stares of his classmates. "Do you wish to say anything?"

"Nop, nothing at all". Fie answered smirking.

Jusis hmphed, noticing the grins and turned away, with one of his own.

BLOOPER

One day in the riding club after school

"Hey Jusis, where is your horse?"

"I'll call him right away". Jusis whistled and a horse suddenly materialized out of thin air and ran to him. "There he is".

"Did you just made a horse appear?"

"Yes".

"…can you make more?"

He then whistled and kept materializing horses until they became so many that they took control of the world.

Chapter Text

"Good work getting through another day of classes everyone". Instructor Sara congratulated Class VII. "Emma, if you'll do the honors".

"All rise, bow". And with that classes were over for the day and most of the class left for their clubs or other activities.

.

"You guys want to go to Kirsche for dinner?" Rean asked Elliot and Gaius, both of them stayed behind for a bit to chat with the Eight Leaves practitioner.

"Sure".

"I'd be glad to". They answered. "But we should get going for club now".

"True, see you later Rean". Elliot agreed with his taller friend.

"See ya later". They waved each other goodbye. 'What should I do today?' The black-haired swordsman wondered.

He had finished with every request that Towa asked him to take care of, minus the road lamp issue due to that unidentified monster, about three days ago so his time after classes was pretty much free.

'Maybe I'll train for a while or pay Towa a visit'.

"Rean". The one called turned to the source of the voice and saw.

"Hey, Fie, what's up?"

"Nap".

"Got it, let me grab my things and we'll go". He answered her, knowing what she meant. 'It was weird the first time she came up to me with that'. Rean chuckled a bit at the memory.

Flashback

One day after classes

Rean, Elliot, Gaius, Alisa and Emma had stayed behind to talk in the classroom when Fie entered.

"Oh, hi Fie; did you forget something?" Emma asked curiously since it was rare for her to come to the classroom once the lessons were over, more than once she was the first to get out.

"No". The silver haired girl answered simply before addressing the Eight Leaves practitioner. "Rean".

"Yes?"

"Nap".

"Umm… afternoon?" The half-eyed look that followed told him that he didn't answer correctly. "I just said the first thing that came to mind, what do you mean with 'nap'?"

"…I'm gonna go take a nap; you said that if it was outside I should tell you to watch over me". The black-haired teen blinked several times as if processing what he just heard. "What?"

"Oh, nothing… I'm just surprised you actually listened to me".

"Wait, what?!" Alisa exclaimed in confusion.

"Remember the day Instructor Sara wiped the floor with me? I ended up taking a nap near the gardening club and asked Fie if she could watch over me, when we were going back I asked her if she could ask someone to the do the same if she takes naps outside". Rean gave a short version of what happened.

"So, you offered to watch over a girl sleep?" The archer asked while glaring at the swordsman.

"I didn't, she was the one who mentioned it". The fuchsia eyed teen defended.

"It's true'". Fie confirmed.

"Wha… you shouldn't ask a guy to watch over you sleep!"

"Why not?" The silver haired girl asked tilting her head.

"B-because, w-well… y-you just shouldn't!"

"I don't think we have anything to worry about, this is Rean after all". The purple haired orbal staff user said.

"Thanks Emma".

"You're welcome".

"It's not like he would do something to her while she sleeps". Elliot added.

"True, if anything I think it's safer for him to watch her than for her to sleep on her own". Gaius reasoned.

"Stop it guys, you'll make me blush". Rean said a bit embarrassed.

"B-but still-"

"Ah". The red-haired musician suddenly said, unintentionally interrupting Alisa. "I need to go, we were gonna talk the details of the concert for the church today, later guys". Around half-way through that sentence he was already at the door and leaving.

"I should be going as well". The teen from the Nord Highlands mentioned. "I'll see you guys later".

"The lacrosse team was going to meet today…" The blond archer trailed off, before looking at Rean and.

"Just a bit of trust, please, that's all I ask". He said before she could talk.

"I-I have to go too, come on Alisa". Emma said and both left.

"…so, nap?"

"Sure, where to?"

End of flashback.

That time she was going to the old schoolhouse so Rean grabbed his sword and trained while keeping an eye on her; it would be weird if he just stared at her sleeping after all.

"Why are you laughing?"

"Hmm? Oh nothing, just remembered something". Rean shrugged. "Let's go". Both left the classroom. "Where to today?"

"The park in Trista".

"Do you mind if we stop by Keynes on the way?"

"Sure".

In Trista's park.

"You seem happy". Fie commented as they reached one of the benches.

"I am, I like this series". Rean answered holding the next volume he needed of Red Moon Rose.

"Well, good for you I guess". With those words she laid down in the bench.

"Sweet dreams". Rean said walking towards a bench opposite of Fie's, the white-haired girl already fast asleep. 'I honestly find it amazing how she can fall asleep so easily'. He thought before opening his book and starting to read, it would be weird if he just stared at her after all.

…

"Hey, time to wake up" The black-haired swordsman called while gently moving Fie's shoulder.

"Hngg". The former jaeger grunted before moving to a sitting position and stifling a yawn.

"How did you sleep?"

"…Fine". She answered still not fully waking up.

"Do you have any plans for dinner?" Fie shook her head in response, "Want to come to Kirsche with me, Elliot and Gaius?"

The younger girl tilted her head a bit, not of confusion but as if considering whether to accept or not, eventually.

"Sure, let's go".

The two got to the café and were soon joined by the male orbal staff user and the lancer of their class; they ordered their food and spent a good time talking among them until it was time to go back to the dorm.

The creature slowly closed the distance between the two kids as the boy started to stand up with the help of the girl.

'This is bad'. He thought trying to find a way to escape.

He didn't have enough time to look since the creature suddenly pounced towards them, its mouth open showing its sharp teeth.

Both kids froze in fear but before it reached them a machete came flying from their left and hit one of the creature's legs, momentarily stopping it in its tracks.

"Come on, get up!" Another kid yelled as he ran towards them and helped the injured boy up before the three started to run away.

Not that it did much.

The creature yanked away the weapon that had imbedded itself on its leg with its teeth and quickly moved in front of the trio cutting off their escape.

The three youngsters could only gulp in fear as they slowly took a step back with each one the creature took forward.

They're not sure how many times they repeated the same motion but eventually the monster grew bored of it and faster than any of them could react closed the distance and used its claws to swat the third kid away, sending him crashing to a tree and leaving a large gash on his left side.

"Gah…" It was the only sound he could make as one of his hands moved to the wound, feeling the red liquid seeping away.

The other two moved their heads in his direction, only registering the event after it had transpired when-

Rean woke up with a jolt, his eyes snapping open as wide as possible.

He didn't dare to breath for a few seconds until his mind finally registered that he was safe in his room on the Class VII dormitory and allowed himself to relax.

'Again'. He thought trying to calm his racing hearth; he moved to look at the clock in his room. '4 A.M., huh… damn it'. After finally regaining his composure he moved to a sitting position. "Guess I'll use the time to study". The swordsman thought aloud moving towards his desk, turning on the lamp and taking a few books.

On the way to Thors

"*Yawn*". Rean attempted to stifled a yawn as he, Elliot, Gaius, Jusis and Machias walked towards the campus but it still attracted attention.

"Bad night's sleep?" Machias asked.

"Yeah, I got up way too early". He answered. "Bright side is that I managed to study some more".

"Couldn't you fall back to sleep?"

"I tried, no luck". He answered Jusis' query. "Let's just talk about something else: You guys feel confident for the midterms?"

"There are a few things that still elude me, but I'm confident I can pass". Gaius answered first.

"Same here, although probably not as confident". Elliot said next as he scratched his cheek.

"I have been preparing for this day; this time I will get first place". Machias followed.

"You really want to beat Emma, don't you?" Rean asked with a chuckle, already knowing the answer. "How about you Jusis?"

"You don't need to worry". The blond noble answered confidently.

"Well, let's hope for the best".

.

.

The rest of the school day went by with nothing noteworthy happening; most Instructors reminded everyone about the exams tomorrow and gave a few pointers to focus their studies on.

During homeroom, Instructor Sara gave a pep-talk, or her version of one in any case, before saying that she will be cheering them from the sidelines and calling it a day.

Rean ended up joining his friends from Class VII in their different study groups and even managed to get a few tips and review some of the other material either from other people or from some books he found lying around.

One in particular was his conversation with the twins, Linde and Vivi, where the latter talked about playing a game of Q&A.

"…and each time someone answers incorrectly they have to take off an article of clothing". Vivi said sweetly.

"S-Seriously?!" The older twin almost yelled. "I-"

"Ok, I'll start" Rean interrupted earning a terrified look from Linde. "Vivi, what's the name of the fourth form of the Eight Leaves One blade school?"

"The fourth wha…?" The younger twin trailed off in confusion.

"You never specified the subject of the questions". The swordsman grinned.

"Oh, hi Rean". Emma's voice called out as she and Fie approached the three.

"Hi". Fie followed.

"Hi, you two are going to study?" The black-haired teen asked earning two nods. "Want to join us?"

"Sure"

"I don't mind" Emma and Fie answered in that order.

"Do you two mind?" He asked the twins.

"Not at all". Linde assured him.

"So, you got two other-"

"We're not playing your game Vivi". The Eight Leaves practitioner interrupted.

"Killjoy". The younger twin pouted.

"I beg to differ". The others chuckled at the exchange before the two new arrivals sat and they started to study.

After that Rean got ready to go back to the dorm, he was at the entrance of the main building when a woman wearing a maid outfit with light purple hair and green eyes asked him for directions to the principal's office, he offered to guide her after telling her where the place was.

"Thank you for your kindness". The maid said with a happy giggle. "But I couldn't possibly trouble you more than I have already, I'll be able to find the way I'm sure". She did a polite bow using one hand to lift her skirt a little since the other hand was holding an umbrella. "Well then, if you'll excuse me, Master Rean". She started to walk past him and.

"Wait a minute…"

"Is something wrong?" The maid asked smiling.

"How do you know my name?" The swordsman asked.

"Oh, don't worry about that Master Rean; I assure you the answer will be clear soon enough".

"…if you say so". Rean conceded. "But any reason why you can't just tell me?"

"Hee-hee, please trust me on this, it will be far more amusing if I don't".

The student shrugged and the maid did one last bow before finally entering the building.

'That was weird'.

"Rean?" Alisa called out, seeing him standing at the entrance of the main building.

After greeting each other, and since they both were going in the same direction, they went back to the dorm together.

As they talked in the way to the dorm the conversation ended up going towards the upcoming exams to how they did on the entrance exam and to how Alisa was usually one of the top scorers back in Roer at the Sunday School.

"Umm…" The blond archer mumbled. "Aren't you curious? About… you know… my family and stuff?"

The swordsman smirked a bit before answering.

"You mean the mysterious 'Alisa R.', agent of national intrigue?" Rean asked, clearly joking. "Well… yeah, I'm curious but I tend to not pry unless I think it's necessary or I'm simply way too curious, plus you probably have your reasons for not wanting to tell".

"…it's not THAT major or anything… especially compared to what you and Fie have told us about yourselves".

"You don't know the half of it". Rean murmured looking away.

"What was that?"

"That Fie's past sure came as a surprise". He answered. "It's weird to think that someone that sleeps outside without a care in the world was a former jaeger. It honestly makes me curious about how her life in the corps was".

"If the entrance ceremony is any indication then Instructor Sara probably knows about it, or at least more than us".

"That wouldn't surprise me".

Alisa nodded in agreement to that statement.

"By the way". The archer's red eyes changed into a half glare directed at her classmate. "You haven't done anything to Fie while she sleeps have you?"

"…Alisa, do you honestly think I would do anything?" He asked back. "For the record, the only thing I do is wake her up when the sun is coming down by moving her shoulder".

"Alright, it's better than her sleeping in the park alone, who knows if someone weird could be watching her".

"True, speaking of weird…"

Rean told her about the maid that knew his name even though he didn't tell her.

"…this isn't the part where it turns out she knows you because you've tried to hit on her in town before, is it?" Alisa asked giving a half-eyed look at her classmate.

"Alisa, don't belittle me" Rean said acting as if he was offended. "I make it a point to remember the names and faces of all the girls I flirt with".

"Wha…?" She trailed off, been caught off guard by that statement

"Gotcha". The swordsman said laughing earning a glare from his classmate. "But jokes aside, do I seem like the flirting type to you?"

"…no, I guess not". Alisa conceded.

They talked a bit more about that strange maid after getting inside the dorm and away from the rain.

The next week could be summarized by one word 'tedious'.

Every day was a test, literally, all the way till Saturday and the final day of midterms when Sara congratulated them once they were over.

She also kindly reminded them that the next Wednesday they'll have a practical exam and they will be told where the next field study is. The Instructor also mentioned that she will be leaving town and won't return until tomorrow night.

But with the midterms over; Class VII, as well as the rest of Thors' student body, were in a good mood so they didn't let it get to them.

Once they were free from class Rean, Elliot, Machias, Jusis, Emma and Alisa all walked back to the dorm together.

Gaius said that the principal wanted to talk to him about something, admittedly that worried the rest of his classmates a bit thinking that he might have gotten into trouble… then they remembered this was Gaius they were talking about.

Fie and Laura left early without a word.

"Whew, now that the exams are over, I feel free as a bird!" Elliot exclaimed happily as they walked. "And I'll keep on soaring, at least until the results come back…" His tone had gone from happy to worry as he finished that sentence.

"I sympathize". Machias said with a chuckle. "But personally, I've got a good feeling about these; how about you Emma? How do you think you did?" He asked, his competitiveness with the other glasses wearing member of Class VII blatantly obvious.

"W-well… I don't think I did too badly, all things considered". The class president answered humbly, earning a groan from the vice president.

"Just… just stop before you embarrass yourself". Jusis intervened.

Alisa then pointed out about how Sara said that she would be leaving town and that got them trying to figure out what business she could have.

Emma suggested, with a stutter and a blush, that she might be meeting her secret lover, to which Jusis, Machias and Rean all agreed that it seemed… unlikely, to put it mildly.

They also talked about how if Rean was going to explore the old schoolhouse tomorrow, along with his other work with the Student Council as he was probably planning to, they would be happy to lend a hand; and although they would have to ask, it was likely that the three missing members of the class would agree as well.

As they reached the dorm, the conversation drifted to said missing members, more specifically, towards Fie and Laura.

"So… this might just be my imagination, but… do those two seem kind of awkward around each other to anyone else?"

The three other male members quickly turned to Rean in confusion to his question.

"R-really?" Elliot asked.

"So, you think so, too…" Alisa said with a sigh.

"It seems like it started around the beginning of the month". Emma commented. "I wonder if something happened then, it's like they've been avoiding each other ever since".

"Hmm; you say that, but I did not take either as the type to dwell on petty issues or misunderstandings". Jusis voiced his opinion.

"Neither did I". Alisa agreed, as well as the others present.

"We've been trying to suss out what the problem between them is, but so far, no luck". The female orbal staff user told them.

"…I wonder if that's what that was all about…" Machias murmured, talking to himself.

"Did you see something, Machias?" Rean asked, curious at his statement.

"What happened?" Elliot followed up.

"Well, do you remember when we were working on our reports for the field studies?" There was a collective nod as his answer. "Specifically, when we mentioned how Fie blasted open the door to my cell?"

"Yeah". Alisa said slowly.

"That's when we found out that Fie used to be in a jaeger corps". The red-haired musician mentioned. "That really threw me for a loop, but what does that have to do with Laura?"

"Well, when that came up I couldn't help but notice that Laura had a rather… unpleasant expression". The shotgun user told them. "It flashed across her face for only a moment, though, so I wondered if I'd just imagined it".

"But even if we assume that's true, what reason would she have to be upset?" Emma asked.

"I can hardly hazard a guess".

"We all have certain things we'd rather keep to ourselves". Jusis said with a shrug before looking at Alisa. "We even have a member of this very class who remains tight-lipped about her own family, after all".

"D-do you really have to drag me into this?!" The archer complained with an angry blush and crossing her arms.

"My apologies, I meant no offense". Jusis assured her, sounding sincere. "I do have my suspicions as to your lineage, however" He added with a smug smirk.

"R-Really?" Elliot asked, honestly curious.

"Y-you…" Alisa trailed off while glaring.

"Now, now, getting angry won't accomplish anything". Emma said to try and calm her.

"Don't worry, we're not going to twist your arm into telling us". Rean re-joined the conversation. "When you're ready to talk about it, we'll be ready to listen".

"I-It's not like I'm trying to make a big deal out of it or anything, it's just… if everyone knew, it'd make things awkward between us, and I don't want that".

Rean did a half-eyed look at her.

"Alisa". He raised a hand and started to count. "We have the adopted son of a noble, the daughter of the Radiant Blademaster, the half-son of Duke Albarea, the son of the Imperial Governor, an exchange student from the Nord Highlands… Elliot and Emma". He sent an apologetic look at the last two since out of everyone else they were the most 'normal' and therefore couldn't think of something to mention that would help his point, they didn't seem to mind. "And to top it all off, a former jaeger that is even younger than all of us. Do you really think us knowing who your family is would make things awkward?"

Before she could answer a new voice joined the conversation.

"Welcome back, my lady". Everyone turned in the direction of the voice to see the maid that Rean saw a week ago, apparently having come out of the Class VII's dorm.

"Wh-what… Sharon?!" Alisa all but yelled.

"It's so delightful to see you again!" Sharon answered smiling widely as Class VII approached her.

"What are you doing here?!" Alisa demanded to know. "She didn't… mother didn't…"

"Hee-hee, but of course, I was sent here at the behest of the chairman herself". The maid answered her unfinished question with a giggle. "Starting today, I will be assuming the position of caretaker for Class VII's dormitory". One could practically 'feel' Alisa's dejection of the idea but the maid paid it no mind and approached the rest of the members of Class VII gathered.

"It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, everyone; my name is Sharon Kreuger, I am a servant in the employ of the Reinford household, Lady Alisa's family". She both introduced herself and revealed Alisa's secret, before doing a polite bow. "I will do all I can to be of service to you, so please, keep me informed of anything you might need."

"…did she just say Reinford?!" Elliot half-yelled.

"A-As in the Reinford company?!" The other orbal staff user followed in her classmate's surprise.

"Wow… I wasn't expecting that but I stand by what I said earlier". Rean commented. "How close were your suspicions, Jusis?"

"N-Not close enough, I admit". The blond noble admitted trying to hide his surprise.

"You!" Alisa snapped addressing the maid. "Come with me".

Sharon smiled and happily followed her inside the dorm and to the second floor, the other entering as well when.

"N-NOT A CHANCE!" Alisa's yell was heard, causing them all to stop in the foyer. "I thought I'd finally -FINALLY- gotten away from her; I'm not going to let her have her way this time!"

'And I thought Machias had lungs'. Rean thought as the group heard her yells.

"M-maybe we should leave?" Emma proposed. "It's not polite to eavesdrop"

"I agree but-".

"I CAN TAKE PERFECTLY GOOD CARE OF MYSELF, THANK YOU VERY MUCH!" Alisa's yell cut off Machias.

"I have a feeling we would still hear her all the way on the campus". Jusis gave his opinion.

Then the door opened.

"Is something wrong? We heard Alisa yelling". Gaius said as he and Fie entered the dorm, apparently having run into each other on the way.

"Yeah, well…" Rean gave the important parts; Alisa's family name, the maid that apparently came to take care of the dorm and her…

"Fine!" …Objections, to the idea.

"So, she is the daughter of one of the biggest companies in the country, then". Fie commented, not showing the amount of shock the others did but the subtle change in her expression made it clear that she was caught off guard by that information.

The door opened for a second time, revealing Laura.

"Is something the matter?" She asked, apparently not having heard the initial screams.

"Anyway, I'm not going to take this lying down!" But not missing that one. "SHE'S STUCK HER NOSE INTO THINGS ONE TOO MANY TIMES!"

"I-is something the matter?"

Like the other two late comers she got the short version of what happened.

Afterwards Alisa stormed off to her room while Sharon came down and introduced herself to the new arrivals, smiling as if the discussion just now never happened, before starting her work.

That night, everyone had a great meal cooked by the newly appointed caretaker of the dormitory.

If last night's meal was great then breakfast the following morning was using the quality of last night's dinner and multiplying it ten times.

"Whoa!" The red-haired musician said wide-eyed looking at all the food.

"Simply spectacular". Gaius commented with the most awe-struck expression anyone had seen from the calm teenager so far.

"Just how many types of different food are there here?" Machias asked in a similar state.

"This looks… more than edible". The former jaeger said, her usual deadpan expression nowhere to be seen.

"I believe this is what they call an imperial breakfast". Emma mentioned.

"That's right, Emma; it's a traditional Erebonian style of breakfast". Sharon confirmed with a smile before her expression turned apologetic. "I must apologize; it's taken me some time to familiarize myself with this kitchen, so my cooking has been a bit lackluster".

'So last night was 'lackluster'?' Most of the class thought in perfect sync.

"Come, now, Sharon; your skill is something to be praised". Laura disagreed. "This is far more colorful and varied than the breakfast served in my own home".

"I would compare this favorably with the breakfast served in the duke's household". The son of duke Albarea followed.

"I'm honored than you think so". The maid answered with a giggle. "I've also brewed both tea and coffee if anyone would like some".

To say that Class VII was impressed would be an understatement; however, there was one person who didn't seem to share the sentiment.

"I get the feeling that Alisa is… less than impressed". Rean whispered to Elliot who was sitting next to him.

"After their argument yesterday, I'm not that surprised". He answered. "Plus, if she grew up eating like this…" The Eight Leaves practitioner nodded in agreement to his unfinished statement. "I can't believe that 'R' actually stood for "Reinford" and from the sound of it, her mother's the company chairman too".

"Yeah; I… wasn't expecting that Alisa's mom is basically in charge of the continent's biggest industrial company. Her family's probably got more money than most of the aristocracy". The black-haired swordsman admitted. "I can see why she'd want to keep her family under wraps, what with all the nobles here".

"Anyway, I object to everything about this". The, now discovered, Reinford said with her arms crossed and looking away from Sharon who stood behind her and slightly to the left. "Considering how busy Mother is, I'm sure she needs your assistance far more than I do".

"I knew it". The newly appointed caretaker said giggling. "You're really concerned about her, aren't you? The way you two care so much for each other deep down is one of the reasons I'm so proud to serve you". She added sincerely but also with a tone that suggested that she was teasing her.

"Th-that's preposterous!" Alisa denied, fighting a blush out of embarrassment.

'Pff, she's toying with her'. Rean thought suppressing a laugh.

"Oh, my lady! I almost forgot to mention that I made plenty of your favorite apricot jam! Would you like me to spread some on your toast?"

"Ohh, really?!" The archer asked in the most child-like gleeful tone anyone had ever heard.

"Pff". Making more than one person have to hold back a laugh.

"I-I mean, stop treating me like a child!" She quickly corrected with a blush. "…though yes, I would like some jam".

After everyone finished eating they left to go about their daily routine.

Rean grabbed the list of requests from his mailbox and gave them a once over before leaving the dorm.

Chapter Text

'How did I get into this situation again?' Rean wondered, doing a great imitation of Fie's deadpan expression. 'Oh right, because of that request…'

Around an hour earlier.

One of the requests for the free day said that someone had been sending love letters to the client and he asked for help locating whoever sent them. The request asked for anyone interested to meet him behind the storage building in the academy field, so that's what brought Rean to said place to meet the client, a second year from Class I with violet hair with the fringe covering the right side of his face and yellow eyes.

"Excuse me, is your name Vincent, by any chance?" Rean asked. 'I've seen him around campus before… where was it?'

"Indeed, it is". He answered. "Standing before you is a nobleman overflowing with love and pathos: the one, the only…Vincent Florald!"

"…" Rean could only stare on at the introduction of yet another colorful character.

"I presume you are the cupid that I asked the Student Council to send me?"

'If you don't have anything nice to say then don't say anything at all'. Rean thought to himself. "I'm no cupid but I am here on behalf of the Student Council, yes".

"Haha, then you may still serve my purposes; allow me to congratulate you on making your way here".

"So, based on your request and my new nickname, I assume you want me to find someone for you?" Rean asked, partly for confirmation and the other part to move the conversation along.

"Yes, something along those lines". Vincent confirmed.

"So… what are the specifics of your request?"

"Oh, before we continue…" Vincent trailed off while looking around as if wanting to make sure no one was listening in before sighing. "…good, Sariffa is currently nowhere to be seen".

"Sariffa?"

"My maid, father sent her to the academy to keep an eye on me; as you can imagine her watchfulness can occasionally be rather constraining".

"Huh… that's why you chose this meeting place then?"

"Exactly, but back to the matter at hand". The second year said. "To be blunt, I have received not one, not two, but three passionate love letters of late, and all from a single writer".

'Oh, now I remember him, he is the guy who is constantly trying to flirt with girls unsuccessfully'. The swordsman remembered.

"Curiously, however, the writer in question signs with naught but a nom de plume; what I would request of you, my fine fellow, is to find out just which lovely lady is responsible for these".

"That's reasonable, but… are you sure you it's appropriate for me to try to find her?" Rean asked. "These are anonymous after all…"

"Do take a moment to think it over". Vincent answered. "The fact that she chose to use a pen name rather than remaining completely anonymous is proof of a pining, hopeful hearth; in fact, I am absolutely certain she wishes for me to find her".

'That… seems a lot like he is just hoping for it to be the case'. Rean thought, what he said was. "I suppose I'll have to trust your judgment on this one". Someone DID send the letters after all.

"What's more, she sent cookies along with her third letter, I would hardly be worthy of the Florald name if I did not properly thank her, would I?"

"…Yeah, I don't think I could stop you at this point if I TRIED". The first year thought out loud. "Do you have any additional information that would help me pinpoint exactly who we're looking for?"

"I do, indeed". Vincent confirmed proudly. "The first hint is that she is a first year; as a man well versed in the feelings of beautiful women, I was able to deduce this from the respectful tone of her letters, additionally, the fact that she attached a pressed grand rose at the end of each letter may serve as a hint as well".

"A grand rose…" 'Could Vivi be behind this…?'

"Indeed, and the only way to obtain one in Trista is to purchase it from the town florist".

"So, if we ask the florist who's purchased one…"

"Precisely, we will be able to discover just which shy maiden has sent me these letters". Vincent finished. "Would you take this task for me, then?"

"As long as you don't mind me sticking to the plan we just discussed, I don't see why not".

"I am truly indebted to you". The second year thanked him. "Based on her pseudonym and her use of a grand rose, I can only imagine our lady is the very model of grace". Before going to his own little world.

"Now that you mention it, what was the name she used?"

"Oh, it seems I neglected to mention that very important detail, she calls herself the 'Grand Maiden', a nickname taken from the daughter of a baron who married into the imperial family long ago, the emperor at the time was so smitten that he gave her countless numbers of grand roses, and so came the moniker".

"I see… can't say I've heard that story before, but it is interesting… anyway, I'll head to the flower shop for now".

"Very well, I leave this matter in your capable hands".

And so, the black-haired member of Class VII made his way to the florist in Trista.

In the flower shop.

'There's always a nice scent when I pass this place, not surprising really, it is a flower shop after all'. Rean thought as he approached the clerk.

"Excuse me, would you mind if I ask you a question?"

"Not at all, go ahead". The women tending to the shop answered.

Rean then explained about someone receiving several letters with grand roses attached from a first year, he didn't give names since he wasn't sure if Vincent would mind.

"Hmm… it wouldn't be hard to find out if I looked at my records but… I'm not exactly sure I should disclose that information".

"I understand, I don't know if it's enough but you have my word I won't try and do anything with this information that they don't want me to, if they ask me to keep their identity a secret then that's what I'll do".

"I see…" The clerk started at the swordsman for a few seconds before nodding. "If that's the case, I guess I can help you out".

"Thank you".

"Just remember, though; it's your job to give the mystery sender your support and nothing more".

"I'll keep it in mind Ms… I don't think I ever got your name, I'm Rean".

"I'm Jane, nice to meet you; wait a second while I go check my records".

…

"Sorry for the wait… I count three first years who've made a grand rose purchase recently". Jane said. "In class order: first is Beryl from Class III, then there's Vivi from Class IV and Rosine from Class V"

Rean's eye couldn't help but twitch a bit at hearing local hellion Vivi's name.

"Thank you for the help, would you happen to know where I can find them?"

"I don't know about Beryl or Vivi but I saw Rosine working at the church not too long ago, she's probably still there".

"Once again, thank you".

"Not at all, good luck".

…

It was rather easy to find Rosine, she was literally a few steps away sweeping the floor outside the church.

"Excuse me, are you Rosine from Class V?"

"That's correct". Rosine answered, she has short yellow hair and blue eyes and is wearing a nun's outfit. "Why do you ask?"

"My name is Rean, I have a quick, kind of personal question for you… have you been sending love letters with a grand rose attached to a second year from Class I?"

"Eh? Oh, no; that certainly wasn't me". She answered a bit embarrassed. "I did buy a grand rose, but it was for the purpose of decorating the church".

"I see, sorry for asking an embarrassing question, then".

"I-it's fine…"

"…well this is awkward, I'll let you get back to work now, have a nice day".

"Likewise".

After that Rean began to walk away.

'One down two more to go... hmm?'

"Hi Fie". He called out, seeing her walking towards him.

"Hey". She answered.

"What's up?"

"Nothing much, I'll be growing some flowers at the club so I was going to get the tools". She said, her expression looking determined instead of bored.

"Huh… kind of rare to see you this serious about something".

"…it happens, sometimes". The silver haired girl replied while looking away.

"Would you like me to help you out?"

"Hmm… sure, have fun".

"You do know I wasn't offering to do it for you, right? It would defeat the whole purpose if I did". The Eight Leaves practitioner answered.

"Aww".

"Hehe, come on, to the flower shop!"

"Yeah, yeah".

…

"Do you know what you're raising?" Rean asked as both of them looked around at the different gardening tools.

"Yep". Fie said taking out a small bag filled with seeds.

"Oh, what're these?"

"Flower seeds, don't know what they're called though". The silver haired girl answered. "Someone gave 'em to me when I was in the corps, had 'em ever since".

"Ahh… do you know how to raise them, then?"

"Yep, they told me how; they were kinda joking about 'raising 'em with love', though".

"Oh, that wasn't a joke, my mom said the same thing about the plants she grows in our kitchen".

"So did Edel…" The silver haired girl trailed off before averting her gaze. "I dunno much about 'love', though".

"Hmm…well, did you love your corps?"

"Yes". She answered immediately.

"Then at least you know about that type of love, don't you?"

"…I guess".

'Is she… sad?' It was a bit difficult to tell how Fie was feeling most of the time since 'deadpan' seems to be her default expression for most situations. "…do you want to talk about them?"

Fie did a good job at hiding it but her eyes did widen for a moment when he asked.

"…"

"…"

"…no, not really". She finally answered with her eyes closed.

"Got it, I'm all ears if you change your mind". He assured her before trying to change the conversation. "I must admit, your corps sounds really different from the image I had in my head".

"How so?"

"You make them sound like one big family while everything I heard about them makes me think of people that are… well violent and bloodthirsty for lack of a better term". He sent her an apologetic look after saying that. "That was me being narrow-minded, though, sorry".

"No need, I can't blame you; everyone's more concerned about the negative reputation jaegers have than anything else". Fie said before whispering. "There are some people who can't even accept their existence".

"Hmm… what do you mean?"

"…nothing; let's hurry up and buy the tools and fertilizer".

Rean decided to not say anything and do as she said, soon enough they were making their way to the gardening club.

"Hey Fie".

"Yeah?"

"I won't pry but I'm always willing to lend an ear".

"…I'll keep it in mind… thanks".

"…this is a bit unrelated but, do you talk with Vivi?"

"Sometimes, why?"

"Do you know if she is pranking anyone right now?"

"She once said 'I always have at least three pranks going on', I think she was exaggerating, though; if you're asking if I know of any pranks she's pulling right now, then I don't".

"I see… I really hope I'm wrong". Rean said with a sigh.

"What do you mean?"

"Student council work…" He said before elaboration on the request he is working on right now, once again without giving names.

"…if it's a prank then it does sound like something she would do".

The swordsman couldn't help but agree.

.

.

"That should do it". Fie said while crouched near the patch of dirt where she planted the seeds. "They should bloom in a few months if I raise them right".

"I hope they grow big and strong". Rean commented.

"…me too". The former jaeger agreed with a small smile. "Oh, also, thanks for the help".

"Anytime". The black-haired teen assured her smiling. "Now if you excuse me, I better go make sure a certain someone isn't doing mischief".

"Good luck".

Luckily, that certain someone happened to be in the garden.

"Hey Vivi".

"Oh, what's up, Rean? Were you so taken with my feminine charms that you couldn't stand another moment away from me?" The pink haired girl asked playfully.

"There's something I'd like to ask you". Rean said, probably making Sara proud at how he expertly ignored her question, before telling her about the letters once again not saying names or the part where he thought it might be one of her pranks.

"Well, now". Vivi smiled brightly as if someone just gave her a great idea. "That IS pretty interesting!"

"…I'm going to take that as a no".

"Yeah". She confirmed with a giggle. "I wish it was me, but I'm having too much fun teasing Linde to set my sights on any boys right now".

"Of course you are". The Eight Leaves practitioner said with a sigh. "Did you buying a grand rose had anything to do with it?"

"Pretty much!" The first year confirmed. "But can you blame me? She falls for it every single time! I can't help myself!"

"…really, every time?"

"I know! I can't believe it either!" Vivi exclaimed.

'Poor Linde…'

"But thanks for telling me about this, hehehe".

'Oh, hell no!' "You can't use it".

"Huh?"

"I'm here by trademarking sending fake love letters as a prank; if you do it without my consent, I'll sue you".

"Wh-what? You can't 'trademark' a prank!"

"Yes, I can, and I just did; Fie!" Said girl turned her head towards them. "I just trademarked a prank, you're my witness".

"Got it". She went along with it.

"Eh, b-but… grr, this isn't over". The pranks loving girl said as if what Rean just did meant declaring war.

"I'm sure it isn't, but for now, I should go; have a nice day". And so, he left the gardening club. 'Only one more to go… but I don't know Beryl… maybe I can ask in the Student Union building'.

'This would be so much easier if I somehow knew where everyone was at any given time'. Rean thought going up the stairs to the second floor of the Student Union building. 'Like if I had a map that would tell me where the people I need to talk to are… not like that is possible anyway'. As he passed the hallway to where one of the students he had asked about Beryl told him where he could find her, he paused looking at the door of the chess club. 'I'm here, I might as well pay him a visit'. And so, he opened the door to find Machias and another member of the Chess club in the middle of a game.

The clubroom had two tables, each with two chairs and a chess board, there was a shelf with some books, most likely chess related, and a big window in the opposite wall from the door.

"Ah, hello there, Rean". Machias greeted once he finally noticed him. "Sorry, I was caught up in my game there".

"No worries, sorry if I disturbed you". The Eight Leaves practitioner said back. "Is there a big chess game coming up or something? You seem way more focused than I'd expect for just a regular match".

"Indeed, there is". He confirmed. "And not just any match either; it's a match that'll determine the fate of this club but I have every intention of completely dominating the upper-class students".

"Hmm… would you two mind if I watched you play for a bit?" He asked the two chess players. "Oh, I'm Rean by the way, sorry for not introducing myself earlier".

"Don't worry, I'm Stefan, it's nice to meet you". Machias is opponent in the match, a commoner with short light blue hair and eyes of the same color wearing squared glasses answered. "And I don't have a problem if you want to watch, Machias?"

"Be my guest". The green haired teen also gave his consent when an idea suddenly came to his head. "Say, do you know the rules?"

"Yeah".

"Then how about we play a game instead, I'm sure you'd have more fun doing that than just watching".

"Are you sure?"

"Might as well!" Stefan agreed. "I'll watch you two, so come on and take a seat here".

'…I have time, so I might as well'.

.

"And that's checkmate".

"That didn't take long". Rean said feeling defeated because… well because he just was, and thoroughly so. "I didn't stand a chance, you're amazing Machias".

"Haha, it's nothing special, my father taught me to play when I was very, very young". The shotgun user answered. "We've been playing against each other ever since, so I've had years of practice now".

"Apparently, he never lost a game back home!" Stefan chimed in. "He really IS the savior of the Chess Club!"

"If you were playing since you were a kid then that'd explain things, I used to tag along with my dad whenever he went out hunting but I never got that good at i- I'll shut up now". Halfway through his sentence Rean felt Machias staring at him, it wasn't the glare he used to give to almost any noble he encountered but it wasn't that far from it.

"N-no, I'm sorry, I shouldn't have reacted like that". The Class VII vice-president apologized. "Hunting's not an exclusively noble pastime after all, it's just… not that common in Heimdallr".

"I can imagine". Rean said with a chuckle, not bothered by his classmate's earlier behavior.

"Wait, you're a noble?" The third person in the room asked.

"Yeah, I'm the son of a baron". He confirmed.

"Don't worry, he is not like 'them', you have my word". Machias added before addressing Rean again. "Last month's field study gave me a lot to think about, I've come to realize that it's unfair of me to pass judgement on nobles simply for being born into that life; for example, I've never met your parents, but I can tell from talking to you that they're good people".

"Haha, man am I glad we made up". Rean said laughing.

"D-don't start getting weird on me now". Machias answered.

"I don't really get what you're talking about, but yeah! Friendship's what youth's all about". Stefan said. "Speaking of… how about you join your pal in the Chess Club, Rean? We'll need as many people as possible if we want to take down the Upper Class Chess Club!"

"Sorry, I'll have to decline, all I know about chess is the rules… as you could probably tell".

"The members of the Upper-Class Chess Club like humiliating players weaker than they are; this isn't about the fact that they're nobles anymore; they're shaming the very act of playing chess, pure and simple". The green haired teen said before adding with a confident smile. "And Stefan and I aren't going to let that stand".

"Well said, Machias!" The other member of the Chess Club agreed.

"Then I'll be cheering you guys on". Rean said before getting up. "But for now, I should get going, good luck you two".

"Thanks". They both answered as the swordsman left and started to practice again.

After he made his way to the Occult Research Society's club room, which if nothing else certainly had the appearance for it with curtains blocking most of the outside light and a rather large table with candles, books and a glowing crystal ball on top of it.

Sitting on the table at the opposite side from the entrance was a girl with long black hair and yellow eyes, wearing the commoners uniform and a black head band on her hair with an aura of… 'darkness' for lack of a better word.

"Umm… are you Beryl from Class III?" Rean asked a bit warily.

"I certainly am, what do you want from me?" She asked after a small laugh.

For the fourth time Rean explained the situation about the grand rose.

"Heh heh…" Beryl laughed a bit, apparently amused by the idea. "Do I seem like the kind of girl who'd be interested in romance? I needed to purchase the grand rose to use it in a ritual, that's all".

"What kind of ritual… on second thought, I don't want to know; thanks and sorry for bothering you".

"Heh heh, sometimes is good to be disturbed, good day to you".

With those parting words Rean left the room, closing the door behind him.

'She is certainly interesting… but that was the last girl, guess I'll go back to Vincent for now'.

What happened next is what brought about Rean imitating Fie's deadpan expression.

"Tell me, did your investigation prove successful? Wait, don't tell me-have you brought our mystery woman here?" The second year didn't even wait for Rean to tell him how it went before assaulting him with questions. "Oh, be still, my beating heart!"

"Yeah, about that… I wasn't able to find her in the end".

Rean explained how he went to the florist and asked all three girls but none of them purchased it because of him.

"I see".

"Sorry that I wasn't any help". The first year apologized. "But there is one thing I'm curious about… where could a girl get a grand rose if she didn't go to the florist's?"

"There's no way to tell; perhaps if the Grand Maiden is a noble, she could have had an alternate source, however-"

"My darling Vincent, I've found you!" A hoarse voice interrupted from the way Rean had approached.

"Wh-who goes there?! State your business". The member of Class I demanded to the intruder; a… large girl belonging to the nobility judging by her uniform with long blond hair tied into two tails that fall to her back as curls and green-emerald eyes.

"The cookies I just made ended up far more delicious that I ever could have imagined". The girl answered placing a hand on her waist. "So delicious that they could only be destined for the lips of my beloved; my elegant, dashing, darling Vincent!"

"Wh-what could possess a person to approach another out of nowhere and say such befuddling things?!" Vincent exclaimed, clearly uncomfortable by the situation. "Furthermore, I do not have even the foggiest idea of who you a-"

"Heehee…" Out of nowhere the girl started to laugh, once again interrupting the upperclassman.

'…I think I know where this is going'. Rean thought, deciding not to enter this conversation.

"Oh, but you do; what if I told you that I was the Grand Maiden all along?"

"And there it is". The Eight Leaves practitioner murmured while his client's jaw nearly hit the ground.

"I can hardly blame you for being speechless with joy". The Grand Maiden said, clearly misunderstanding his reaction. "My real name is Margarita Dresden, the lovely grand roses I attached were grown by my family".

"If you're part of Baron Dresden's family, then… could it mean…?" Vincent trailed off there, either because he was still in shock or because he didn't want to actually say the words.

"Oh, so you know the story? Your suspicions are indeed correct". Margarita confirmed. "I, Margarita Dresden, hail from the same family line as the lovely Grand Maiden herself!"

"I-Inconceivable… how could you, of all people, be related to the Grand Maiden…?"

"'…when her beauty pales in comparison to your own?' Look, darling! We're already completing each other's thoughts!" Margarita 'finished' the sentence for him. "And yours are oh-so sweet!"

"WH-WHAT YOU SAID COULDN'T HAVE BEEN FURTHER FROM MY ACTUAL THOUGHT!" He yelled.

'I give that yell half a Machias'. Rean noted in his mind.

"Heehee, even when you're shy, you're still so wonderful; seeing the surprise on your handsome face made waiting to reveal my name entirely worth it in the end". The blond girl said… dreamily? "Now, my beautiful Vincent, it is time for you to reply to my love letters; will you enter a relationship with me? You may choose one of two replies: 'I would be delighted', or, 'There would be no greater honor!'"

"Right… so, no choice then?" Rean murmured neutrally as he felt himself getting more exasperated with the scene before him.

"Th-this woman could hardly be more different than the demure maiden her letters made het out to be…" Vincent murmured. "My only answer for you is a resounding 'No!' now begone, and bother me no more!"

"So… that's how it is". Margarita said impassively before smiling playfully. "Teehee; oh, just when I think you couldn't be more adorable! To think you're the sort of man who hides his true feelings away!"

"I beg your pardon?"

"There is no need to fear; please, have one of these special cookies I prepared, one bite and you'll no longer feel the need to keep your innermost longings out of public view". The Grand Maiden finished her sentence with a giggle that for some reason sounded like someone that had a plot going.

"D-don't tell me… you've mixed something into your cookies" The violet haired second year said with a mix of horror and surprise.

"Oh, but that is for me to know and you to find out!" She answered with a wink before taking a step forward.

"S-stay back… do not come any closer!" The second year all but yelled in panic before turning to Rean and whisper. "You! D-don't just stand there! I'll need your aid if I'm to survive!"

As the Eight Leaves practitioner heard this he called forth all of the knowledge and experience he has accumulated between his training and the fights against the monsters in the old schoolhouse and the field studies, trusting that it would allow him to discern the best course of action to his current predicament.

After two seconds that felt like an eternity to the panicking second year besides him, the young swordsman decided to…

"I'm out". Strategically withdraw. "Sorry, no idea how to handle this".

"Wh-wha…" Vincent trailed off, sounding like he was pleading.

"Heehee… don't worry, my darling; there may be a slightly bitter aftertaste, but it will all be worth it in the e-"

"I've been looking for you, Master Vincent". A new voice interrupted Margarita.

"Sariffa…!" Vincent exclaimed as if Aidios herself had come down to aid him.

"Dare I ask what you are doing in a place like this?" Sariffa, a woman with comb violet hair with two locks that stretch down pass her shoulders, wearing a purple maid outfit with a white apron and headband, asked.

"S-Sariffa, I beg of you, please! Free me from this terrifying situation!" The young Florald whispered, having moved behind his maid.

"If I recall, you are my sweetheart's darling maid, are you not?" Margarita asked.

After momentarily glancing at everyone present as if analyzing the situation, the maid spoke.

"As much as I hate to interrupt the situation at hand, I am afraid I must; Master Vincent, your presence at the upper-class dorm is required at once, a delivery of the utmost importance from Count Florald awaits you there".

'Impressive'. Rean praised internally.

"I-I see, then I have no choice, I must go at once!" The son of the Count answered.

"B-but-".

"These cookies are a present for Master Vincent, are they not?" Sariffa asked, interrupting Margarita. "In that case, may I ask you to leave them in my hands for now? I will make sure he enjoys every last one of them later".

Although reluctantly Margarita accepted and handed over the bag of cookies before Vincent and Sariffa left, rather hurriedly thanks to the former.

Margarita did the same while murmuring something about cookies, leaving the ever-confused Rean by himself.

"…well… I guess that's one request done". Rean thought aloud. 'I'll pay Jusis a visit since I'm here'. And so, he made his way to the stables where the blond noble was.

.

"Phew…" Jusis sighed using his sleeve to clean some sweat from his forehead.

"Wow, your clothes are covered with dirt". Rean said in surprise, not having seen him that way before unless they just finished fighting a monster.

"Oh, hello". The blue-eyed swordsman greeted.

"You're even more into this than I realized".

"Heh, it's just dirt- hardly an issue". He corrected mid-sentence. "It takes a good deal of effort to care for horses, I suppose it's only natural to end up like this".

"No arguments there". Rean agreed. "Care for a little help? I have some experience working with horses".

"… it must be your hobby to show up unbidden to assist people". Jusis answered with the hint of a smirk. "Your offer does come at an opportune moment, though; I was just about to start washing them, so feel free to join in".

After getting a brush and a bucket full of water each, they started to work on the horses; Rean took off his Class VII jacket before starting while Jusis kept it on since it was already covered with dirt.

"Whew… this is as tough as I remember it being".

"Hmph, already thinking of throwing in the towel?" The young Albarea asked with a suppressed grin. "You were the one who offered to help, so don't think I'll let you back out so easily".

"I know, I know" Rean answered with a chuckle.

"Aren't you getting a little tired yourself, Jusis?" A girl wearing the commoner's uniform with brown hair tied in a ponytail and eyes of the same color asked. "We wouldn't want you to overexert your frail little noble body or anything; maybe you should go take a nap?"

'…Is that Machias a month ago in disguise?' Rean thought.

"Hmph, what do you take me for? This is nothing". Jusis answered neutrally. "Perhaps if you put as much effort into your work as you did your toothless jokes, we'd be done by now".

"Sh-shut up! I'm doing just fine!"

'I see Jusis is as friendly as ever'. As the Eight Leaves practitioner thought this he approached another horse with the brush when it neighed and shook him away. "Whoa there! We've got a wild one here".

"Understandable; this horse recently arrived from the Nord Highlands". The other member of Class VII informed him. "He's still young, so he hasn't quite grown accustomed to the stables yet".

"Does the school normally get horses all the way from the highlands?" Rean asked curiously.

"Indeed, they're known to breed the best horses, even the army gets their horses from there; now then". As Jusis finished that sentence he approached the horse and started to stroke its neck in an attempt to calm him.

"You're pretty good at that". The black-haired teen complimented seeing how the horse stopped flailing.

"When I was younger, I used to go to the stables whenever I felt bored". He answered as if it was nothing. "My brother taught me both how to ride horses and how to take care of them… I am truly grateful for that". The last part was said with small smile.

"You two are lucky to have each other".

"Grr…" The commoner girl who had stayed quiet for some time now suddenly growled. "I'm not gonna let some snooty noble who learned about horses with a silver spoon in his mouth show me up like this". She huffed and walked away to work on another horse.

'I see Jusis's charms got him another fan'. Rean thought dryly. 'Although he's definitely changed since we came back from our last field study… he's more willing to open up'.

"…care to explain what you're staring at?" Jusis asked with a half-eyed look.

"A changed man". He answered honestly making him raise an eyebrow. "Haha, never mind; let's get to work".

"…agreed".

After finishing up with the horse Rean grabbed his jacket and left to continue with his requests.

At the engineering club.

As the student council's errand boy entered the building he noted the smell of steel and oil inside it, as well as the head of the engineering club near the orbal bike along with Angelica.

"Hey there, Rean". George greeted when he noticed the first year. "Thanks for stopping by".

"Might I ask where Alisa and Laura are?" The purple haired second year asked. "Those two lovely flowers would do wonders in brightening up this dreary old building".

Rean only blinked a few times in response.

"…let's not make Rean's life even harder than it already is". Luckily the mechanic in the room came to his aid.

"Haha, sorry, I probably shouldn't think out loud". Angelica apologized, although it didn't sound completely sincere.

'Angelica sure is an interesting one'. The Eight Leaves practitioner thought. "That aside your request was for me to assist with testing out the orbal bike, wasn't it? So, what will I be doing?"

"Oh, please". The leather-clad second year said. "I could hear you making those 'vroom-vroom' noises before you even stepped through the door".

"I didn't make any noise like that… but wait, then…"

"Yeah, we want you to ride the orbal bike". George confirmed.

Rean couldn't help the giant grin that made way to his face at hearing this.

"I'll give you all the juicy details when we're actually ready to test". The brown haired second year said.

"Before we start, however, we want to make sure you have the time-"

"I have the time". The swordsman said, barely letting Angelica finish.

"Hehe, eager, aren't we?"

"Yes".

"First of all, let me tell you a little bit about the bike". The jumpsuit wearing second year said, placing a hand on top of the orbal bike. "Everything you see here is something that Angie asked me to build for her and because of that, the bike's been fine-tuned to meet her specific needs; in a nutshell, it's all Angie, the engine, the breaks… even the handlebars".

"I see". Rean answered with a nod.

"As you might expect, she and that bike are practically symbiotic; when she's on it, she's a sight to behold".

"But because of that it's tough for anyone else, right?"

"Bingo". Angelica confirmed before smiling proudly. "Think of her as an unruly horse; there's no denying she's a fine bike but she doesn't play nice with strangers".

"R-right…"

"Don't scare him now, Angie; Crow's ridden it just fine… but I suppose he's been working on this bike since we started, too; compared to him you, Rean, are a complete beginner". George continued. "Which is great! You'll have a more objective opinion after your ride".

"I understand".

"Well, let's head over to the highway".

One trip to Trista highway later.

Rean was already on top of the orbal bike, using his left foot to keep balance, and for some reason.

"So… what are Towa and Crow doing here?" The other two responsible for the bike were waiting at the starting line.

"Angie and George told us you'd be doing this so I came along to show some support and take some time off work!" The student council president answered first with a smile.

"My reason isn't quite as sweet as little Towa's here". Crow said next. "Like I told you before, this bike's at least partially my baby; think of me as an overprotective father, making sure you don't mess up and hurt my girl when you take her out". He finished with an innocent grin, that wasn't innocent at all.

"Well, I appreciate your concern". Rean answered giving the second year a half-eyed glare before taking a deep breath.

"Crow! Don't make him any MORE nervous!" Towa reprimanded.

"Don't worry, Rean; just ignore everything this guy says". George followed up. "I do, and it's worked great for me".

"That's a good advice".

"Hey!"

"We can rebuild the bike, so stay focused on keeping yourself safe". The mechanic finished.

"R-right… thanks".

"Do you have much experience riding horses?" Angelica asked.

"Actually, yeah".

"You shouldn't have any trouble, then; she's a whole different beast, but the basics of riding are the same; so, have fun!"

"Thanks, Angelica; that helps, I'll do my best to not let you guys down".

The daughter of Marquis Rogner then gave Rean a run-down of what each part of the bike does and what they want him to try and do.

Basically, to start, accelerate, and stop.

'Well, here goes nothing'. Rean turned the key to start the engine and immediately felt his body vibrate due to it. "Wow… this is pretty intense; haha it reminds me of how I felt when I first rode a horse". He couldn't help but chuckle a bit before turning serious. 'All right, focus now'.

He quickly went through the pointers Angelica gave him in his head before continuing.

"Pull the clutch level, shift to first gear, and twist the throttle…" He thought aloud, more to make sure he is moving the right parts as he says than anything else. "Now release the clutch slowly and steadily". As he did that the orbal bike started to move away from the starting point. "…this is awesome!"

"There he goes". Angelica chuckled as they all heard him practically yell that last part.

"Can't wait to see the look on his face when he gets back". Crow added.

"He's gonna love it". George said next.

"Heehee, hopefully". Towa said last.

"This feels amazing". Rean said as he kept riding the orbal bike in the highway. "All right, let's try switching gears". He once again recalled the pointers in his head before moving. "First, roll off the throttle… then pull the clutch, change gears, then release it; I need to pull the clutch quickly and firmly, then change gears, and after that release it slowly and steadily".

As he did just that he felt a burst of speed that made him think he was going to fall off, he didn't thankfully but at that point he wasn't entirely sure if the trembling came from the bike or from him.

'I said it before and I'll say it again, awesome!'

He honestly doesn't know for how long he drove but eventually he calmed down a bit and started to work on stopping.

"All right, first I let go of the throttle, then apply the brakes, Angelica said that I should do it strongly on the front ones and lightly on the rear ones". He did just that and eventually came to a stop. 'I stopped almost exactly where I expected to, so I guess I did it right… this thing's incredible, though; with the engine going it feels like I'm still riding, although something tells me I would make it vibrate on my own with how nervous I am'. He chuckled a bit at the last part. 'Anyway, I should go back… I'll take my time though'.

"Welcome back, Rean". Towa greeted the Eight Leaves practitioner when he stopped.

"Well? How was it?" Angelica asked.

"…can I go one more lap?"

"Hahaha, guess you've got some potential". The purple haired girl said happily.

"I don't blame him; the basis might be the same but it's a totally different feeling than riding a horse". Crow commented.

"True". George agreed. "But sorry, maybe another time".

"-Sigh- Thought so, didn't hurt to ask". Rean said as he turned the engine off.

"Seems like you handled it really well". The mechanic commented.

"I got nervous a few times that I thought I would fall off but other than that I don't think I did too badly".

"Pretty impressive considering it's his first ride, nice to know I could have a worthy rival waiting in the wings". The veteran orbal bike rider commented.

"Not everyone can get that much praise out of Angie". Towa said giggling. "You should pat yourself on the back!"

"Anyway, we need to hear some more detailed impressions of each phase, but let's do that back at the engineering building".

BLOOPER

"Are you serious Crow?" Rean asked as they along with Angelica walked to the campus.

"Yes, I'm serious, just imagine it".

"I can make several arguments as to why your idea is bad".

"Come on! Look, just, play along for a second ok?" Rean gestured with his hand for him to continue. "So, we take two orbal bikes, then install a magnet as an armrest and make special magnetic Blade cards, we can have card games on motorcycles!"

"Yes, and anyone who plays while on the road will surely be in an accident". Angelica countered.

"Sorry Crow but I agree, I admit your idea sounds nice but actually doing it seems idiotic".

"Hmph, you two will see, in the future my 'idiotic idea' will be the norm",

Both rolled their eyes at Crow's comment.

A few years later

Two people are riding orbal bikes.

"I activate this card!" While playing Blade.

"There is nothing like card games on motorcycles!"

Chapter Text

While Rean and the second years were coming back from the highway, Towa and Crow went their own ways; the first because she had a meeting for the student council and the latter because… well he just said 'gotta go, later!', knowing him probably to either slack off or participate in some other 'questionable activities' as Rean had decided to call them.

After they arrived at the engineering building, and entered from the back door so the orbal bike could fit, Rean told George and Angelica everything that he thought could be relevant about his short ride; although since he wasn't sure what could be relevant and what couldn't be, he said everything that came to mind.

"Thanks, Rean; the info you gave me should come in handy". George thanked the first year after putting away the notebook that he was using.

"Glad I could help; let me know if you ever need me for another test". Rean answered. "I mean it, I'll cancel my plans as soon as you ask". Not hiding the fact that he would gladly ride the orbal bike again.

"Haha, we'll keep it in mind". Angelica answered with a chuckle. "I think she'll be a much more stable ride from now on; I'll have to be sure to tell Alisa's mother about everything we learned today if they end up mass producing orbal bikes".

"Oh right, Alisa's mother is the chairman of the Reinford Group, isn't she? I didn't know you were familiar with each other". Rean said, mildly surprised.

"The Rogner and Reinford families share a good relationship, actually". The 'unworthy daughter' of Marquis Rogner answered.

"They're both big names in Roer, right?" The black-haired swordsman asked.

"Yeah, Angie's dad's one of the group's biggest shareholders, too". George answered.

"Alisa's mother provided the engine and a number of parts for the bike, too".

"So that's how you got your hands on everything…" Rean thought aloud to himself.

It wasn't strange to think that a member of the Four Houses could afford the parts, but considering that Angelica doesn't seem to have the best relationship with her father, from what Rean knows, this certainly explains a few things.

"That's right". Angelica confirmed. "Although, whether or not Reinford will actually mass produce the bike is an entirely different matter".

"Let me guess, money?"

"Pretty much". George confirmed Rean's inquiry with a shrug.

"Their biggest goal is to turn a profit, so the only way it's happening is if we can show them that it would make money". Angelica followed.

"Which is why we're currently trying to make it into something the masses can handle and today, you were a big help in getting closer to that goal".

"It was my pleasure, I'd love to see this making it to the public… hey one question".

"Yeah?"

"In the off chance that you can't make it for the masses, can I borrow her from time to time?"

George and Angelica looked at each other and a second later started chuckling.

"Tell you what, any time we need a test subject you'll be the first one we call". Angelica answered grinning.

"And if we ever get a prototype made from the Reinford Company after we give them our data, you get first dibs". George finished with the same expression.

"…I have such great seniors". That got another chuckle from the group. "Anyway, I should get going, I'll see you later".

"Sure, thanks again for the help".

"Later". George and Angelica answered as the first year left the building.

'I should remember to save up for an orbal bike if they ever become available for the public'. Rean thought as he walked away from the engineering building with a grin on his face. 'Well, what to do now?' He glanced in the direction of the old schoolhouse and then to the sun that was still up in the sky. 'Hmm, I think I'll walk around for a bit before going, it would be for the best if I'm not still distracted with the orbal bike once we go in there'. The Eight Leaves practitioner chuckled a bit to himself at the last part before starting to walk around the campus with no real destination in mind.

His feet ended up taking him to the music room so he entered to greet Elliot, the musician was standing near one of the windows on the opposite side from the entrance where several flowers and plants were lined up, in the middle of the room there were a bunch of desks, with a piano, a teacher's desk and a blackboard at the front of the room; there were also several music related instruments across the place.

"Hey Elliot". Rean greeted as he approached his red-haired friend.

"Oh, hi Rean, what's up?"

"Nothing much, just finished with my errands for the student council, old schoolhouse aside, what about you?"

"I wanted to get back in form since I wasn't able to play much due to the midterms… did something happen?" Elliot asked curiously.

"Hmm, what do you mean?"

"You are grinning as if something really good happened to you".

"Ahh… hehe, let's just say that working for the Student Council has its perks". The Eight leaves practitioner said, his grin widening a bit. "You seem pretty happy yourself, though".

"It's that obvious, huh?" The musician said smiling widely and showing the violin in his left hand. "I'm planning on pretty much spending the entire day just playing".

"Would you mind if I listened in?"

"Oh, be my guest, just give me a sec to get ready".

While Elliot finished whatever preparations, he needed Rean sat down in one of the desks, not a minute later the orbal staff user started to play. As Elliot began to play the soft, enchanting melody, Rean was left in awe of Elliot's skill and the passion that was being shown through the music. He couldn't help but think that if this is how good Elliot can play out of form, he's got more talent for music in his pinkie finger then most have in their whole bodies.

"…so, what'd you think?" Elliot asked after playing the last note.

"I'm impressed". Rean answered honestly. "Did you really take a break for the midterms?"

"Haha, yeah, the most I could get time for was for tuning the violin but it's not the same as actually practicing".

"You really enjoy playing, don't you? I can practically hear you saying 'I love music' in every note".

"Cut it out, you're embarrassing me". The red haired orbal staff user said with a nervous chuckle. "Oh, by the way…"

"Yeah?"

"I've been wondering about this for a while, but you're a musician yourself, aren't you, Rean?"

The black-haired teen didn't bother to hide his surprise at that statement both because it came practically out of nowhere… and because it was kind of true.

"Er, kinda… what tipped you off?" The Eight Leaves practitioner finally answered, curiosity written across his features as to what gave it away, he hasn't done anything that could make anyone think that as far as he is aware.

"It was just a feeling I had". Elliot answered honestly. "I can't really explain it, but it's like I can tell if someone has even the slightest bit of musical experience".

'Wha… how does that even work?' Rean wondered with a frown before letting go of the subject, his friend himself said that he doesn't know how to explain it so there is little chance he could find the logic behind it, if anything it was likely similar to how he can feel the 'presence' of other living beings. "The slightest bit is right; I used to play the lute for a while back home". He said smiling. "But that's a pretty impressive sense you have, you're really on another level when it comes to anything musical".

"Ahaha…I think you might be exaggerating just a little". The musician answered a bit embarrassed.

"Not at all; I can't think of anyone who could tell something like that without some kind of clue and I haven't even touched an instrument since I got here, it shows the extent of your passion for music and that's something I respect". Rean answered truthfully.

"…passion isn't enough, though, not in music". Elliot said back, his smile gone. "If I want to get better, I'm going to need better equipment". He averted his gaze while frowning before half murmuring the next part. "…but given the compromise, I can't even ask for that".

"What compromise?" Rean asked, that last part catching his attention.

"…It's nothing, don't worry about it". The musician assured him going back to his previous expression. "But it's nice to confirm that you do play an instrument, Rean, we should play together some time".

The swordsman eyed his friend for a few seconds before shrugging. "I've got a lot of rust to work off, but I'd like that". Whatever compromise Elliot was talking about it doesn't seem like something he wants to share and Rean isn't about to twist his arm for the information.

"Great, I'm looking forward to it... oh by the way…"

"Something wrong?" Rean asked noticing the troubled expression on his friend.

"Well, you're going to investigate the old schoolhouse later, right?" Rean nodded in confirmation. "W-well…"

"You can't come with?" The fuchsia eyed teen asked.

"Y-yes". Elliot admitted while looking away. "We were going to start practicing for the concert at the church today so…"

"It's fine Elliot". Rean assured him. "Don't worry about it, I would honestly be surprised if everyone could always go to the old schoolhouse".

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah, just make sure you work your hands off in practice".

"Haha, all right, deal".

Rean stayed for a while longer before leaving Elliot to practice on his own but as he was making his way to the stairs something caught his attention, the door to the usually closed orbal computer room was half open.

Out of curiosity he approached it and opened it a bit more to see. "Alisa?" And approached her while closing the door behind him.

"Hmm? Oh, hi Rean". The blond girl greeted, sitting in one of the desks with a turned off orbal computer in front of her.

"What are you doing here?"

"Nothing much". She shrugged. "I checked to see if the room was open on a whim and it was, the janitor must've forgotten to lock it after he was done".

"Aha, so why the long face?" Alisa visibly flinched at that before sighing.

"I got into an argument with Ferris earlier, she started asking me all these questions about my last name after she found out about Sharon…"

"And you ran off… here". Rean concluded, half wondering why this room of all places.

"How many times am I gonna have to deal with this…?" The archer trailed off with a heavy sigh and slightly slouching.

'…damn it, I don't know what to say in this kind of situation'. The swordsman berated himself.

Although he has dealt with some similar issues due to his… peculiar position, this was hardly the same and simply ignoring it or asking to be left alone isn't likely to work, in a certain sense Alisa's family could very well be someone alongside the Four Great Houses if you were to count finances alone, not to mention that been the number one manufacturer for the army gave them a significant amount of influence.

Unfortunately, his musings were interrupted by a voice by the door.

"Whoops, I knew I forgot to lock up". The fumbling of keys and finally the sound a lock clicking was heard. "There we are".

'Oh, crap'. Rean quickly moved to the door as he heard footsteps moving away and tried to call out but the janitor didn't hear them.

"…did he just lock the door?" Alisa asked with a half-eyed look as if this was some bad joke.

"Seems like it, I guess we're locked in". The black-haired teen confirmed.

"-Sigh- My luck keeps getting worse and worse today". The Reinford commented in defeat, more to herself than Rean.

"Come on, I'm not that insufferable". The male in the room joked to try and lighten up the mood.

It didn't work as Alisa's not amused glare made that clear.

"At least it's not nighttime or anything, I'm sure someone will come by before too long" He said to reassure Alisa. "If worst comes to worse we can always call someone with our ARCUS and tell them what happened".

"Th-that's true, but…" The red eyes girl stuttered as her mind caught up with the situation, specifically, she was alone with Rean in a dark room with the door locked. "Argh! This is all Sharon's fault!" As soon as that train of thought formed the archer yelled; because the maid was to blame and definitely not because she was blushing at where her mind had wandered. "I wouldn't even be here if Ferris and I weren't arguing about her!"

"Hmm… isn't that a bit of a stretch?" The Eight Leaves practitioner asked neutrally after getting past her sudden outburst.

"You wouldn't say that if you knew her!" Alisa countered before taking a deep breath to calm down. "…she always does this, imagine living with someone who knows nearly everything about you but never thinks about your feelings and to top it all, she's always taking Mother's side, like she did when…"

Alisa's sudden silence didn't go past Rean nor did the troubled expression that accompanied it.

"When… what?" When his only answer was silence he knew that this was as far as she would talk about the subject. "Sorry, I didn't mean to pry". After a second of silence Rean spoke again. "Even so, you really like Sharon, don't you?"

"Huh? Hmm… well I guess I can't say I 'dislike' her, she's been part of my life since I was a kid".

"Don't lie Alisa". He moved from the door to the front of the desk she was sitting at, resting his arms on top of the computer. "You looked like a little kid in glee when she mentioned the apricot jam".

"Wh- D-don't make fun of me!" She glared daggers at the swordsman while also blushing, half of anger and half of embarrassment.

"I'm not, honestly". Rean raised his hands in an 'I surrender' fashion. "I'm the same when it comes to pancakes".

"…pancakes?"

"Yeah, but back to Sharon, she's going to be at the academy anyway, you might as well try to make the best of it; besides, she's sort of like an older sister to you, right? Siblings aren't always easy to deal with".

"You're right about that". Alisa conceded. "But it still wouldn't kill her to think about me a little more".

"Hehe, not a moment goes by in which I don't think of you, Lady Alisa". Sharon's voice was heard from the other side of the door.

By the time both teens turned to the previously locked door, the maid had already opened it and entered the room.

"Sh-Sharon?! What are you doing here?" The blond archer asked, voicing her and her classmate's surprise.

"Whenever you are in need, I shall be by your side". The older woman answered smiling sweetly. "After all, isn't that what an older sister is for?"

'Haha, well that was an entrance if I ever saw one'. Rean thought with a chuckle.

"I can't believe she heard all that…" Alisa trailed off.

"Oh my, I didn't interrupt anything… personal between the two of you, did I?" The Reinford's maid's question brought them back to reality. "I would be more than happy to lock the door again and leave the two of you to… whatever it was you were up to in here".

"Don't even JOKE about that!" The 'little sister' half yelled while blushing.

Alisa and Sharon started to banter, with the former telling the latter to 'not talk about that' in regards the siblings matter and Rean took that as his cue to leave.

…

The black-haired teen made his way downstairs and ran into Towa for the second time that day; she said she was going to that meeting he mentioned before so Rean asked if he could help, after insisting a bit that it was no trouble she accepted the help and the swordsman ended up having to take notes for all the ideas the Student Council came up with in the conference room.

Said room was simply a large 'U' shaped table with several chairs, some blackboards and two banners with the school symbol on them behind the chair where the head would sit.

.

.

Finally, the meeting drew to a close, the other members went to deliver the papers or ask permission for the different topics that were covered which left the President and the unofficial member to clean up.

"Thanks for all the help today, Rean; you really didn't need to stay and help me clean everything up, but I'm glad you did". Towa thanked him while putting away some folders away.

"Just returning the favor for all the work you do for everyone else". Rean answered. "But you're amazing, though; the meeting had so much stuff to sort out and plan that I would need to constantly look at my notes if I wanted to remember half of them but you made it look easy, like a human student notebook!"

"Thanks?" She asked with a chuckle, probably a bit confused for the comparison but still smiling. "I think you might be exaggerating a bit, though; I couldn't get a thing done without the rest of the Student Council, I couldn't do a thing without them".

"R-Really?" He wasn't so naïve to think that one person could do what took several people to do, although Towa would probably fare better than most, but her saying that she couldn't do anything without them was honestly surprising.

"Hehe, you probably saw it during the meeting, we were able to sort everything out because everyone brought their ideas and opinions to the table". That was true, all the members of the student council took turns to talk after agreeing on what things take priority and managed to reach consensus on how to approach the different issues. "I sit in my fancy chair and act out my role as president, but they're the ones doing all the heavy lifting".

"…Towa".

"Hmm?"

"Forgive the language, but that's a bunch of bull".

"Wh-what?"

"I'm not saying that you're doing all the work or anything like that but I won't believe anyone who says that you're not doing heavy lifting of your own, not even you".

"Why is that?" The second year asked, looking perplexed at that sentence.

"Because I still feel compelled to grab my sword and cut any papers that are stacked on top of one another since the last time I helped you with paperwork". Rean deadpanned.

That got a giggle from Towa, making Rean chuckle in return.

"Hehe, thanks Rean, I don't think what you say is completely true but I appreciate it".

"Oh well, I won't force you to share my opinion and I don't think I could if I tried". The black-haired swordsman shrugged.

"Probably not". Towa confirmed smiling. "If I'm being honest, I don't know I'm really suited to being president but if everyone believes I am, there's no way I can let them down; even if I can't meet all of their expectations, I want to show them that I'm trying".

"No one can do or ask for more". Rean conceded. 'I'm jealous, she's got that much to guide her and I can't even find something I actually want to do… I wish I had that kind of purpose'.

"Rean…?" The second year called out, noticing the somewhat troubled expression on her junior; after taking a deep breath she took a few steps towards him and. "Boop!" Stood on her tip-toes, straining to reach up and pinch Rean's cheeks, although the action brought a light blush to her cheeks out of embarrassment.

"Hmm? Hwat ahe hyou doing?" He asked in surprise.

"Er…" The green-eyed girl chuckled nervously while taking a step back. "Sorry, you just looked so stone-faced there for a second, I couldn't help myself". She turned back to her normal self. "You're a first year, no need to get ahead of yourself, you've got another full year here to figure things out".

"…can you read minds or something?" Rean cautiously took a step back, more out of surprise than fear. 'Am I that easy to read?'

"I know how hard you've been working, Rean; I can see it as well as anyone, if not better; I won't pretend to know what has you so worried but your answer will come in time, just take things step by step".

"…hehe, yeah, yeah; you're right, there's no use to try and force it".

"-Ahem- We still have a lot more stuff to clean up and put away but once we finish, I'll make us some tea".

"Great…" Rean trailed off before looking out the window, more specifically, to the sky. "Hmm, but I'll have to ask for a raincheck, I still need to go to the old schoolhouse".

"Oh, you can go now if-"

"I still have time to help you clean, it's just the tea that I'll have to pass for today".

Towa nodded in agreement and after they finished Rean left.

'Got to go back to the dorm for my sword, I'll call the others on the way'.

Most members of every class kept their weapons in lockers at the back of the classroom, this was also true for Class VII, but there were always exceptions.

The reason for leaving them there was mostly so they don't need to carry them from the dorm to school and vice versa every day, it wasn't mandatory so if anyone preferred to keep his or her weapon with them they were free to do so; such was the case for three members of Class VII.

In Rean and Laura's case, because they liked to train on their own, be it in their rooms or another place, so they always end up taking them back to the dorm at the end of the day.

In Fie's case, and most likely due to her upbringing as a jaeger, is simply to always have them in hand should she need them.

Sometimes other members take them from the classroom but that tends to be for a reason in that particular day, those three are the only ones that take them back and forth constantly.

As Rean walked back he got his ARCUS out and marked the numbers of the others in Class VII, save Elliot since he already said he couldn't make it.

Alisa and Gaius said that they couldn't go either, the former because she still needed to go to Lacrosse and didn't want to look like she was actively avoiding Ferris and the latter because he needed to sort something out with the principal.

Rean asked if everything was okay but he assured him that it was nothing to worry about so he left it at that.

'Well, that's three down five more to go'. Next on the list was Jusis.

"Hello?" The blond noble answered after the third beep.

"Hey Jusis, it's Rean".

"Is something the matter?" Jusis asked and Rean could practically see his confused face at the other side of the line, it was a rare occurrence for anyone to use the ARCUS to call others after all.

"Just wondering if you can go to the old schoolhouse today?"

"Hmm, are you about to go in?"

"Not yet, I left my sword at the dorm so I'm going there now".

"I see, I'll meet you at the entrance of the old schoolhouse then".

"Thanks".

"You don't have to thank me… but you're welcome, if there is nothing else". The call ended at that.

Next up was Machias.

"Hey Machias".

"Oh Rean, hi".

"Hi, sorry am I distracting you from practice?"

"No, we finished a while ago, no matter how much you love chess you will get burned out if you don't take a break".

"I see".

"But I don't think you called just to ask me that".

"No, actually, I wanted to ask if you could give me a hand at the old schoolhouse, I'm going to the dorm to get my sword right now".

"Oh, I'll be glad to".

"Great, I'll meet you there, I still need to call the others to ask, see ya later Machias".

"Until later".

'That's two that can make it, which just leaves Emma, Fie and Laura'.

The next call went to the class president.

"O-oh, hello?"

"Hi Emma, it's Rean".

"Ah, hi Rean, is something the matter?" For some reason Emma sounded flustered.

"Is everything okay?"

"Ah yes, I was just reading… something that another member of the club made and am still thinking about it".

"Oh, it must be good then; do you think I could read it as well?"

"E-eh?! I-I don't think you would enjoy it, it's… let's say it's for certain type of people".

"Hmm, alright, if you say so; that's not why I called though, do you have time now?"

"I think so, why?"

"I was going to the old schoolhouse and I wanted to know if you could come with me, so far only Jusis and Machias are coming as well".

"Hmm, I'll be glad to; I'll meet you there in a few minutes".

"Got it, till then". Rean ended the call at that, which now left only two people to left to ask… and a bit of a predicament for him. 'What should I do?' He wondered while considering his options. 'I could ask one of them and not the other but they are two of the strongest, if not the strongest, fighters in Class VII so having both of them help in the exploration would make things easier; on the other hand, whatever problem they have could affect the exploration… although I don't think either of them would let that get in the way if they're in the middle of a battle and fighting together could actually help smooth things over a bit'.

It was a bit too optimistic to think that way, which Rean would learn eventually, but at the moment it made sense so he opted for calling them both, starting with Fie.

"Hi, Fie?" The black-haired teen when she picked up.

"Yes?"

"It's Rean, how are the flowers going?"

"Fine, Edel said that I should talk to them to help them grow, I don't see how that can help".

"Hehe, me neither but I'd take her advice if I were you". The former jaeger did a sound of approval. "Anyway, are you gonna stay at the club?"

"I was about to leave, why?"

"I was going to explore the old schoolhouse; would you mind giving me a hand?"

"Hmm… sure, why not? I'll see you there".

"Thanks, till later". Rean ended the call. "And that leaves one". He was about to mark the number when he saw Laura go inside the General Goods store. 'Oh, guess I'll just go ask her in person then'.

He made his way to the store and after entering and spotting Laura between one of the tables with goods in them and one of the shelves at the walls, he approached her.

"Hi, Laura".

"Oh, hello Rean". The blue haired girl greeted back.

"It's rare to see you here by yourself, what's up?"

"I actually found myself rather interested in this store's wares, so I decided to browse for a while; I'm surprised at how enjoyable it's been". She answered truthfully.

"Oh, mind if I ask what got you interested?"

"Not at all, in fact, this could be a good chance to have you tell me more about the things being sold here".

"Heh; well, I don't know all that much about them myself but sure".

Both of them looked around a bit before settling for one of the several shelves in the store.

"Hmm… they have a wide variety of items here on display, most of which I'm unfamiliar with". Laura said, looking at each item as if trying to analyze them. "…which leads to a question I'd like to ask you, Rean".

"Yes?"

"What sort of goods and accessories do girls my age tend to like?" It wasn't easy but Rean managed to avoid tripping on himself, it helped that he wasn't walking.

"Uhh, come again?" He asked looking at her in surprise.

"I ask because, well…" Laura averted her gaze, an uncharacteristically gesture for her. "I've noticed that there's a significant difference between myself and the other girls here".

'…No, really? I hadn't noticed'. The Eight Leaves practitioner thought.

"For example, I went shopping with Monica recently, only to find myself searching for equipment to keep my sword in shape; meanwhile, Monica was fawning over cute accessories and the like, doesn't this prove that I'm rather… strange?" She finished with a small frown.

"Well, I wouldn't necessary say strange, just different; for starters you have different class backgrounds, although speaking from personal experience you are a little bit different than other nobles".

"Just as I thought". The blue-haired girl said closing her eyes for a moment, when she opened them again she seemed determined.

As to what she was determined about, Rean couldn't hazard a guess.

"But this is of no issue; if there's something I lack, then all I need to do is take the opportunity to learn; now tell me, which of the items here would most likely grab a girl's attention?"

"…you do realize who you're asking, right?" Laura nodded in response which in turn made Rean shrug. "Well, if I had to guess…" He looked around the shelf for a moment when his eyes fell on the big plush of a cat. "How about this Mishy plush? He's a pretty popular character over in Crossbell".

"Fascinating". The swordswoman said taking the plush from Rean with a small smile. "He's certainly charming, to say the least". Her eyes fell on a different that caught her attention. "But how about this?" She asked while showing a strap with a blue-haired, muscular man attached to it. "This 'Dogi' character has a rather gallant look to him, doesn't he?"

"I'm 100% that most girls wouldn't have any interest in him". Rean answered honestly.

"O-Oh… this is more challenging that I had expected".

"Hehehe, oh right, I wanted to ask you something?"

"Yes?"

"Do you have time to investigate the old schoolhouse? I was going there after getting my sword".

"I will be glad to, but first". She grabbed the Mishy plushy again and moved to the counter. "I'd like to purchase him".

After she paid for the plush both made their way to the dorm and grabbed their weapons, Laura obviously left the plush there.

"Thank you for your assistance, Rean". Laura said as they walked to the campus to get to the old schoolhouse. "If it weren't for you, I never would have purchased something so nice".

"Not a problem". Rean answered smiling.

"Still, my grasp on what other girls my age like remains tenuous; it seems I have a long and harsh path ahead of me if I'm ever to truly know". She frowned at the thought while averting her gaze.

"It's not like you have to force yourself to like things other people like, you know?" The Eight Leaves practitioner said, gaining her attention. "Everyone has different tastes; if there's something you don't like I think its fine to just say so as long as you respect the fact that other people do, it's not like we will like you less for that".

"Hmm…" She gave a contemplative look before her lips formed a smile. "Hehe, you've given me a lot to think about today; let me thank you once again, I'd like for us to go shopping again if you ever have the time".

"Sure".

They kept making some small talk till they reached the old schoolhouse.

At the entrance of the old schoolhouse.

Fie was the first one to arrive to the entrance and considered taking a quick nap but Emma arrived before she could.

They made some small talk while waiting for the others, which didn't take long as Machias walked up to them shortly after.

"Hi, I'm guessing Rean called you two as well?" The green haired teen asked.

"Yep". Fie answered simply while Emma nodded.

"Oh, it seems Rean called Jusis too". The class president said, seeing the son of Duke Albarea walking towards them.

"Albarea". Machias greeted when he was in ear-shot.

"Regnitz". Jusis answered in a similar fashion. "It seems Rean is late".

"Hey!" Speak of the devil and he shall appear. "Sorry we're late". Rean apologized as he and Laura approached them.

"It's okay, we didn't wait long". Emma assured him.

"…is anyone else coming?" Laura asked after seeing everyone present, her gaze stayed in Fie a bit longer than the others, though.

"They had other things to do, so it's just us this time… now that I remember, except for Laura none of you has been inside since the entrance ceremony, right?" Everyone nodded yes. "Fair warning then, you're gonna be surprised".

With those words Rean took out the key from his pocket and opened the door so everyone could enter.

Like usual, the inside of the old schoolhouse gave an uneasy feeling to the students, although some showed it more than others.

Two of them seemed particularly uneasy but not about the old schoolhouse.

'Maybe it was a mistake to bring those two… too late to regret it though'.

"I don't think I need to tell you this but be careful, there is no telling what its waiting for us down there". The Eight Leaves practitioner warned gaining several nods of understanding.

After showing the elevator to the first-timers and noticing the new floor that had apparently been unlocked everyone agreed to focus the investigation there and down they went.

The room for the elevator of the third floor was almost, if not exactly, the same as the ones for the first and second; the real difference laid beyond the stone door that separated that room from the monsters lurking at the other side.

So far, this floor was definitely the most unique, not so much as monsters came; they were different from the first and second but that also applied to the second floor having different monsters than the first one.

On that note, the monsters there could be summarized in two types: organic and mechanical, both of these types having two varieties as well.

The organic ones were a giant rabbit-like monster, if it were to stand on its back legs it would probably be a bit short of Gaius, with white fur, except on the head and the space between its legs and feet that were brown-reddish, and had six spikes three at each side protruding from its body a bit after the front legs; add to this its eyes and claws been bloodshot red.

The other type of organic enemy was a snail that reached at around Rean's knees; its carapace was black with a few red lines and the body was yellow at the bottom half and green at the top.

The mechanical ones, the first was a cube with small legs that barely lifted the body from the floor and a face on one of its sides.

The second ones looked like a floating stake, from the tip it became wider until it reached where the 'head' started and it formed a square with a cone on top of it and it was always spinning in itself at exact intervals.

Out of all of them the most dangerous were probably the rabbits, no one is sure exactly how it works but every now and then they're hits knock down their target unconscious; Jusis learned this the hard way when one of them managed to catch him off guard and after the battle they needed to wake him up, needless to say everyone was more careful around them afterwards.

As mentioned before, the floor itself was also the most unique so far, the basic ambience and architecture was unchanged but instead of a single path to follow there were several platforms of yellow and blue colors over bodies of water, no one wanted to try and see how deep it was but a fish could be seen so at the very least it wasn't too shallow, that were only available to traverse one color at a time, a pendulum with an orb on each side corresponding to the colors determining which platform was available.

The fights themselves weren't that difficult; with the exception of been cautious of the rabbits and a few surprises when the snails used Arts they were mostly simple.

The one thing that everyone noticed, though, was that Fie and Laura were constantly fighting as far away from the other as possible.

"Do you think it was a good idea to bring those two?" Jusis asked Rean after they finished another group of monsters and resumed the exploration.

"I was kind of hoping that this would help with whatever problem they have… looking back, I might have been too optimistic".

"True". Machias agreed, having joined the conversation. "Although your idea wasn't bad in itself, the results seem to be limited, to say the least".

"I didn't expect them to fight together once and automatically become friends but I hoped that it would at least help with the awkwardness". Rean admitted. "Well, at least they're not yelling at each other and about ready to bite their heads off unlike certain people". He grinned at seeing how the two looked away in opposite directions.

"I wonder who those people might be".

"Indeed, some simply lack manners".

The black-haired swordsman laughed at that, just because the place was gloomy didn't mean they had to.

Meanwhile.

"This place is really big, isn't it?" Emma asked to try and get a conversation going.

"Yes, it's hard to tell when we will reach the end". Laura agreed.

Fie simply nodded in agreement.

"I hope it's not too much further now". The orbal staff user commented.

"So, do I".

Once again Fie just nodded in agreement.

'Please someone help'. The bespectacled girl begged with an uneasy smile due to the heavy atmosphere around the other two girls in the group.

"Hey, what are you guys talking about?"

'Oh, thank you Rean'. Emma said in her mind. "Just wondering when we will reach the end of this place".

"Yeah, if it's anything like the other floors then it shouldn't be that much further". Rean mentioned remembering more or less how long it took him to get to the end the other times. "Then again, we're dealing with a shapeshifting dungeon that seems to get harder and harder the further we go in so I can't be sure".

"That's true". Emma agreed as she casted a worried glance at Fie and Laura.

"I'm guessing things aren't going well?" Rean murmured.

"Yeah, I tried to strike a conversation but I didn't have any luck". The Class VII president admitted though considering the two of them are never much for conversation in the first place, Rean couldn't help but grimace. "Do you have any ideas?"

"My idea was asking them both to help with this place and… yeah, I can admit in hindsight that it's not one of my better plans". He answered a bit sarcastically. "Still, let's just give it time, for all we know they will manage their differences on their own".

"If they can't?"

"Then most likely, we'll all need to duck and cover from the ensuing melee".

"I hope it doesn't come to that".

.

.

Not too long afterwards the group finally reached the end of the floor, or at least what seemed to be based on previous experience.

"Alright, if this is the same as the other floors then there will be a really strong enemy on the other side of the door, everyone makes sure to be ready before we go in".

After the final preparations, the six students walked through the stone door that opened itself once they approached.

Another purplish light appeared blinding them for a second and before them appeared three demons.

That was the most accurate description for the fiends in front of them.

They were all exactly the same, around twice Rean's size, their bodies a sickly red with several white lines around all of it, their hands were three fingered claws; two wings sprouted from behind them and kept them from touching the floor and the head was completely spherical save for the two large horns that pointed upwards, their eyes were two simple yellow dots, a third one a big larger on their foreheads, and the mouth was a row of close and sharp teeth.

"Alright, let's do this!" Rean exclaimed as Class VII draw their weapons.

The three demons' third eye glowed and they reared their heads backwards when.

"SPREAD OUT!" Machias yelled, the next instant the demons shot a laser at the students, starting from the ground in front of them and all the way to the wall at the other side.

Thanks to the shotgun user's warning they all managed to move in time to avoid them but the slower ones noticed that the heat radiating from the enemy's attack seemed enough to burn them even if not directly touched.

"Laura, Jusis, pick one and keep it busy; Fie, choose objectives depending on the situation, Emma and Machias support us".

Everyone voiced their agreement and went to engage their targets.

Rean did the same as Laura and Jusis and chose one of the demons to face in a one-on-one.

Which soon proved more difficult than anticipated.

The hide on the demons was absurdly resilient; each time Rean slashed at it the sound of metal clashing with metal was heard and was merely able to leave a scratch on his opponent.

While the demon proved that shooting lasers was far from been its only means of attack, each punch that it threw were enough to force Rean back and make his hands a bit numb from the impact.

From the corner of his eye he noticed that the other two front liners were facing similar problems, Jusis actually been the one that was faring the best mainly because his style favored parries instead of actually blocking the attacks; he wasn't doing much better on the offensive though.

Laura seemed to be the one better off in that regard, partly because of her oversized weapon, each attack leaving more than just a scratch unless it was in the arms that seemed to be even more resilient than the rest of the body.

Fie for her part was moving behind the fiends, firing at one to make an opening for the swordsman that was currently engaged in with it, while getting close to another one and slashing at it from the back, the bullets didn't seem to make much damage while the slashes made them try to turn and struck her; each time they did so they were met with nothing but air and a new wound from their other opponent.

Machias and Emma for their part where relegated to the sidelines, they took every shot they could make to attack, with the shotgun in Machias' case and with Arts in Emma's but since they were rarely staying in one place more often than not they had to reinforce their friends fighting on the front lines with different support Arts while leaving the distraction to Fie.

Neither of them minded, though, it was true that not being able to provide more help was frustrating but the president and vice-president knew better than to try something stupid so they accepted their role.

…

Jusis attempted to thrust his sword at where his foe's heart would be but barely passed the flesh that acted as armor before taking a step back.

The demon wouldn't allow it, however, by the time Jusis had taking his step it was already in front of him; its fist reeled backwards and aimed at the blonde's left side.

There was no room for Jusis to dodge, his foot hadn't yet touched ground and he wouldn't be able to dodge by the time it did, for the same reason he couldn't attempt to parry so he did the next best thing he could do.

Block.

Placing his sword in the way with the tip pointing at the ground and as most of his left arm as he could along the blade to lessen the impact; it worked but the blow still sent him crashing to a nearby column and forced the air out of him.

If his body wasn't reinforced by one of the earth Arts that Machias had casted his left arm would have probably broken.

The demon didn't wait; using the opportunity it attempted to go after the two ranged fighters only for Fie to slash at its back and draw its attention, forcing it to face her this time.

"Are you okay?" Emma asked worriedly as she made her way to Jusis.

"I'm… fine…" He answered panting, his body ached all over and his left arm in particular felt like an orbal car had rolled over it.

"Hold on". She ordered before raising her staff and murmuring something, the next moment particles of light moved towards Jusis.

The pain from the hit he received immediately lessened considerably, surprising him at how it seemed that he hadn't just been out of air a few moments ago.

"Thank you". With those words he jumped back into fray to let Fie continue her work.

…

Laura was, for the most part, faring well against the demon.

She couldn't land many solid hits but the ones that did connect were enough to at least force the creature to flinch in pain, this didn't change the fact that if she received a direct hit it would make far more damage than she did so far but was making progress; not to mention that, as long as it wasn't a grave wound, Emma could and would heal her.

However, there was one small issue that didn't involve the demon; her support.

Fie was making excellent work at forcing openings, one time in particular when the demon attempted to fire its laser she had rain bullets at the back of its head and made the trajectory off.

The problem was that, every time she made an opening, Laura couldn't help to flinch for but a moment.

It wasn't done on purpose and she realized that it was a mistake to do so, but she couldn't help it; Fie was a strong fighter, that much was undeniable, but there was something in her that simply didn't agree with the daughter of the Radiant Blademaster.

Laura shook her head to force those thoughts away, even if she couldn't help her unconscious reaction she would not allow it to distract her; especially when it could prove fatal in the current circumstances.

Taking a deep breath, she held her sword with one hand and held it diagonally.

"Behold my most powerful strike". Almost as if those words were an incantation her zweihnder immediately started to glow.

It was impossible to tell if it was out of instinct or if it possessed some intelligence but the demon that was currently fighting with her seemed to become wary of this attack to the point of ignoring the distraction that Fie was trying to provide, making her in turn stop and turn to aid the other two, and focus entirely on the swordswoman in front of it as it raised both its arms as if they were a shield, almost challenging her to try and cut through.

Laura wasn't deterred, though, and without any more words she lunged towards her enemy; even if she used her ace in the hole it wouldn't be enough to go through those arms that proved to be stronger than the body.

Luckily, she didn't have to.

"Earth lance". One of the many advantages of a combat link was that allowed the two linked to coordinate with minimal words exchanged, the second Machias felt Laura stablish a link and saw her prepare her attack; he had in turn prepared this Art.

Earth lance is nothing more than what the name implies, a lance created from earth; the interesting part was that it erupted upwards from the ground that the caster selected as the objective, in this case the ground just below the arms of the demon facing Laura.

Having been caught by surprise the lance was able to easily break the fiend's guard, which in turn left it wide open for the Radiant Blade Dance.

With a small grin of gratitude towards her companion Laura unleashed her most devastating attack, aiming for parts that she had hit several times before in preparation and cutting the demon apart, it disappearing in a similar light as when it had appeared.

Not wasting time, she quickly ran towards Jusis to aid him against the demon he was fighting, making a combat link with him in the way.

This also freed Fie to focus on Rean as now each demon had to face two opponents, not to mention the two long range fighters that could attack when they least expected it.

…

Rean had somewhat managed to keep the demon at bay by focusing mainly in defense, occasionally countering when it overextended, most of the attacks he had make were when Fie had make an opening for him; at those moments he would use the Fourth form to damage it as much as possible.

The Eight Leaves practitioner felt relieved when Fie made the combat link and noticed that the fight was now going on their favor with one of the demons down.

The demon, now having the undivided attention of two enemies, didn't seem deterred; it simply started to attack both of them in turns instead of focus on one.

This of course opened more ways for Rean and Fie to attack; as it attempted to hit Rean on the side of his head Fie quickly got close and cut at its back while the black-haired swordsman dodged the punch.

Having failed the attack on its first objective, it quickly turned around to hit the girl with the twin weapons with an uppercut; she simply jumped backwards, at first following the direction of the attack before moving away completely, Rean in turn sent a blue arc at it making the largest wound so far on its body.

Each time the demon attempted to hit one of them, the other would capitalize on it.

That was until the demon had enough.

With a wail, almost as if saying 'that enough!', the demon released a horizontal purple energy all around it forcing Rean and Fie back from the impact; not wasting time, it started to charge the laser aiming at Rean.

Or that's what they thought.

As soon as the black-haired teen moved away when the laser first fired he noticed who was behind him.

"Look out!" He warned Machias and Emma who were currently focusing on the other demon.

It wasn't enough.

The laser reached the shotgun and orbal staff users, a small explosion occurring between them.

'Shit!' Machias cursed as he felt the explosion's heat burn his right side and its force forcing him into the floor a few feet away.

Emma fared a bit better, having raised her arms in time so they took most of the explosion.

"Emma, are you okay?" The green haired shotgun user asked as he got up.

"Yes I'm-Machias your jacket!" At her sudden outburst he looked at his jacket and noticed that it had caught fire, acting more on reflex than anything he took it off and stomped on it repeatedly.

Luckily Rean and Fie had caught the demon's attention again so it wouldn't follow up on its attack.

…

'This is becoming an eyesore'. Jusis thought taking a few steps away from the demon while Laura drew its attention, the blonde noble's intention been clear through the combat link.

Without uttering a word, a silver magic circle appeared before been absorbed by his sword and he lunged towards their enemy, Laura having stepped back at the last second and leaving no reaction time for the demon as Jusis's Crystal Saber impacted it and finished off the remaining of its life.

'Good, now-' His thoughts were interrupted by a high-pitched scream from the last demon, as everyone turned in its direction they saw it was missing an arm.

And Rean was on the floor bleeding from his head.

…

After once again engaging the demon Rean and Fie became more aggressive on their approach, now they barely left any time between their attacks to make sure it wouldn't be able to try something like before again.

During one of the exchanges it was having with Fie, Rean noticed that it was strangely focused so he took a bit of a distance.

'Flames, gather on my blade'. His sword ignited and immediately lunged forward to cut down the demon while it had its back to him.

That proved to be a mistake.

Whether it was out of instinct or it had actually planned it no one could know but the second Rean was in the demon's reach it immediately spun around, his right fist aiming for Rean's temple.

The swordsman's eyes widened in realization and fear as he noticed the gravity of his predicament, time even seemed to slow down as his brain tried to process his options; he had his sword held in his right arm and couldn't move it in time to intercept the blow, even if he could, a head-on clash would result in his lost, there was simply too much difference in strength.

For the same reason he couldn't block; even if his sword wasn't covered in flames at the moment, which would still be preferable to have your head torn out even with the burns, he couldn't move it between the fist and his head.

Dodging was also impossible, he had lunged with all his strength towards the fiend in an attempt to finish it off so he couldn't fight his own momentum.

Fie was already moving to try and stop the demon, the usually stoic girl showing a panicked expression, but even with all her speed she wouldn't make it in time.

Rean couldn't dodge, couldn't block and no one would make it in time to aid him; that left only one choice.

Make sure that it isn't a fatal blow.

As the demon's fist made contact with his skin he immediately forced his body to the right, not fighting the strength of the blow at all and instead following it; he clenched his teeth, fighting off the sensation that his skull seemed about to burst and as the momentum he had built up moved him forward he rolled in mid-air and slashed at the joint between the arm and the shoulder of the monster.

That part was apparently 'softer' than the rest of the armor and the blade covered in flames it had no trouble slicing the arm clean off.

The last thing Rean heard before passing out as he skidded in the ground was the demon's scream.

…

Fie was scared.

She wasn't a stranger to battle and knew that injuries and even death were always a possibility every time someone entered a battlefield but that didn't mean she ever grew accustomed to it.

The second she noticed that Rean would be struck she honestly thought that her classmate was done for; she couldn't help him and he had no way of avoiding the hit.

The surprise and relief when he actually managed to avoid the worst of it and even cut off one of its arms would have made almost anyone pause in shock and relief; she would have most likely done that if it wasn't for the piercing scream that came out from the fiend after the loss of its limb.

Immediately coming back to her senses, she seized the opportunity, lowering her stance she lunged at the demon and cut at it reaching the opposite side from where she was, not stopping there she repeated the process moving in different angles to slash at most of the body as possible.

On her last jump however, even before touching the ground, she spun around and started to shoot at the demon's back, immediately closing the distance after her founding ground and aiming all the bullets at the head.

With one last wail the demon finally fell, disappearing like its brethren.

"Rean!" Emma called out, her first aid kit at the ready as she approached their injured friend, the others following close behind.

"How is he?" Laura asked worriedly.

"He seems to be unconscious". Jusis noted.

"Arcus, activate". Emma said taking out her ARCUS and using the strongest healing art she knew.

As the light from it started to diminish Rean groaned and slowly opened his eyes.

"Hngg… wow, that hurt".

"Are you okay Rean?" Machias asked.

"Aw… not so loud… I have the mother of all headaches". He answered, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'm guessing the fiends are dealt with?"

"Yeah, ours was the last one". Fie confirmed.

"Good then we should- woow". Rean attempted to stand but quickly found out that he wasn't in a condition to do so.

"You should rest". Emma said as she made him lay back down.

"Emma's right, we're capable of searching for the room while you recover". Laura supported, quickly followed by the others.

"Alright, I'll just stay here for the moment".

Emma stood next to Rean just in case something happened and to make sure he doesn't lose conscious again while the others search around the room.

Like in the first two floors the search proved fruitless but Rean managed to somewhat recover in the meantime, at least enough to walk back.

"You've fought things like that in here before?" Fie asked Rean, who was currently been helped by Jusis back to that teleporter thing.

"Yeah, these ones were tougher than the ones before, though". Rean answered.

"Indeed, the ones on the second floor were less troublesome". Laura supported. "Although we might had been able to deal with them more efficiently…" She trailed off there while averting her gaze, feeling partially guilty for the times she could have dealt a more decisive blow at the beginning of the battle if not for her flinching whenever Fie aided her.

Said silver haired girl closed her eyes, also considering that it might have been better if she had kept aiding Laura and attempting to create bigger openings.

"We still managed to win so let's leave it at that and go back… and visit the nurse's office".

"Good idea, I think I got a burn from that explosion". Machias agreed, carrying the remains of his Class VII jacket under his arm.

As soon as they arrived at Instructor Beatrix's office she urged them all to take a seat and let them look at their wounds.

Aside from Jusis's arm that the Instructor said it looked like it almost broke and Rean's injury to the head everyone else were more or less fine.

Emma and Machias had some light burns from when they were caught by surprise but some healing arts made most of it go away, for the rest she gave each an ointment in case the wounds were bothering them.

Fie and Laura were the best out of the group, only sporting some cuts and bruises that required mostly to be disinfected just to be on the safe side.

Rean was the one that had most of them worried, Beatrix included when she learned he lost consciousness after the blow, but after doing a few tests he seemed to be fine; just having a nasty headache that mostly went away with the use of healing arts.

"What would we do without Arts?" The black-haired teen said with a chuckle.

"You shouldn't depend too much on them". Beatrix answered. "They are useful but a mortal wound is still a mortal wound, it's a small blessing that none of you suffered any worse injuries".

The students all nodded in agreement.

"Try to be more careful from now on, I know the principal asked you to look into the old schoolhouse but if you think it becomes too dangerous then there is no shame in stopping". She added with a calm smile as she finished her work. "You should be fine now, try not to overexert yourselves, though".

The members of Class VII bowed in thanks before saying their goodbyes.

"Thanks for the help today". Rean thanked as they walked out of the building.

"Don't mention it".

"It was no issue".

Laura and Jusis answered, the others nodding in agreement.

"But I wonder what the deal with that place is". Machias thought aloud. "There doesn't seem to be anything of importance, at least not in the floors we have explored so far".

"Yeah, but I think we can at least know that there are 'rules' to the old schoolhouse". The fuchsia eyed teen of the group answered.

"Rules?" Emma asked.

"First, there's always a door at the entrance of every floor; second, there's always a tough monster waiting at the end; and third, a new floor opens up each month".

"Now that you mention it…" Jusis trailed off giving it some thought. "It almost sounds like some sort of test".

"A test, huh?" 'But why? And maybe as important if not even more, who?'

"…we'll just have to keep poking around if we want answers". Fie spoke up resolutely.

"I agree, but we can't go further in today so I guess we can only wait till the next month". After Rean said those words everyone left to do their own thing.

Rean ended up meeting a commoner student who had lost some stickers for Abend time and helped look for them.

Apparently, he had lost them when he was in the roof 'watching the light of the sunset dance off his stickers' and a gust of wind blew them out of his hands, three in total.

Luckily, he had a rough idea of which direction each went so they were able to find them without much difficulty.

The student, Munk, got them after submitting ideas for the show; apparently inspired on Class VII's members with some exaggerations and fiction thrown in.

After finishing his search, he ran into Emma who was going to the library for research for her club and to check the answered for the midterms; she also offered to help Rean in case he had any questions about class and he accepted.

So now both of them were in the second floor of the library in one of the many desks that are against the walls.

"I see… so this is where you apply this formula". Rean murmured as he solved one of the math problems.

"That's right". Emma answered with a happy giggle. "You're a fast learner".

"Coming from you, that's a high praise". The teen said honestly. "How are you feeling about the midterms by the way? Expecting a good score?"

"Hehe, I'm not so sure about that; I did everything I possibly could, but the rest is in Aidios' hands now". The bespectacled girl said back. "How about you, Rean?"

"I'm actually feeling pretty good; I think I should score above average, at least".

"I'm looking forward to seeing our results, and I'm especially curious about Fie's". She then noticed something that Rean was writing. "Not exactly, Rean". She got closer before explaining that he was mistaking one of the steps.

As she was explaining the Eight Leaves practitioner suddenly realized something.

"Are you paying attention?" Emma asked.

"Oh, right, sorry". He apologized before concentrating again.

Or at least trying to.

'I never noticed before but compared to a lot of the other girls here, she's really filled out and- NO! Bad Rean! Focus! Get your head back in the right place… right between- NO!'

"Rean? All of a sudden, you've turned bright red! Are you okay? Do you feel feverish?" The blue-eyed girl asked worriedly.

"Huh? No, I feel fine". He lied, surprising even himself at how he managed to not stutter. "Must be the light from the sunset or something".

"Okay, if you say so". She continued with her explanation and Rean did his best to focus before he excused himself.

'Why do I feel like… I just achieved the level of focus only found in a master?' He thought as he was able to avoid his mind from… digressing during the lesson; ironically, him having to maintain that focus made it so most of what Emma taught him was for naught. 'Whatever'. He sighed heavily before walking back out of the campus.

He ran into Gaius in his way out, apparently the taller teen just finished with his club after resolving whatever he had to resolve with the principal.

Gaius mentioned that he was going to pray at the church before going back and Rean decided to accompany him.

So now they were both in the middle of the church praying.

After they finished praying Rean mentioned how even in the Nord Highlands they still revere Aidios and learned that a traveling priest goes and hold classes similarly to the Sunday School and that not only the Goddess but they also revere the winds that blow through the highlands.

Gaius still needed to go take care of some stuff so they separated after the church and having nothing else to do, Rean went back to the dorm.

"Oh, Rean! Did you just get back too?" A voice asked from the behind the swordsman, who turned around to see Sara walking up.

"Oh, hi, Instructor, welcome back". Rean greeted her.

Sara took a quick glance to the building before her gaze went back to Rean.

"Well, the building's still standing so I guess you all behaved yourselves; excellent! And it seems like you've really thrown yourself into helping the Student Council, Rean".

"I guess".

"That's fine and all but if you spend all your time working, life will just pass you by before you know it!"

"Alas! If only my evil step-teacher would stop dumping a bunch of work on me and let me go to the ball". Rean answered in perfect deadpan, just before noticing something. "Did something happen? You look really beat".

"Nothing bad, just been real busy these last couple of days". The older woman answered with her arms crossed before muttering something about 'Toval', 'too much work' and 'too delicate'.

"So, your date didn't turn out well, then?" Rean asked, half as a joke and half to see how she would answer.

"Huh?..." Was Sara's immediate response before her brain caught up to the conversation. "O-of course it did! As if a night with me could fall short of unforgettable!"

"You're lying".

"He was just amazing, such a gentleman… so strong, so passionate!"

"I am honestly amazed by how easily you can ignore people sometimes".

"But I'm afraid all the details might be more than you could handle; it's too soon to corrupt your pure, innocent heart".

"Whatever you say, Instructor". The black-haired teen rolled his eyes. "Oh, by the way, a woman showed up claiming to be the dorm's new caretaker, did you know about this?"

"Oh, she's here already?" The pink haired woman asked a bit surprised. "I'd heard that the Reinford family was sending a maid, but I wasn't sure when she'd arrive". Then a smell caught her attention. "Something sure smells good, though".

"Must be Sharon fixing dinner, she's an amazing cook if breakfast is anything to go by".

They both went inside while Sara mentioned that Class VII has some fringe benefits.

"Welcome back, Master Rean, Lady Sara". Sharon greeted as they entered the dorm.

"Hey Sharon, good to see you". Rean greeted back, not noticing the stare, borderline glare, which Sara was giving Sharon. "Could you stop with the 'Master Rean', though? It's not like I'm paying your salary".

"Oh, but that just wouldn't do at all". Sharon answered, still maintaining a bright smile. "Politeness towards those I serve is part of the maid's code of honor". She then giggled as if a joke she heard just passed her mind. "Or might you prefer something more like 'My dearest Rean'?"

"I'll stick with 'Master' in that case… but hypothetically, if I were to ask you to stop calling me 'Master' as your master, would you do it?"

"Hmm, that is an interesting question". The maid said, apparently thinking of her answer for a second. "In that case I'm afraid that the code of honor takes priority over that order".

"Of course, it does". The black-haired teen said with a chuckle as Sharon turned to Sara and introduced herself.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, my name is Sharon, I was sent here to serve you courtesy of the Reinford family; I will do my utmost to cater to your every need, I hope I can be of service".

"Oh, the pleasure's all mine". Sara answered in a tone that meant the opposite. "Though if you don't mind my saying you look a little familiar; are you sure we haven't met somewhere before?" Now, she was clearly glaring.

"I'm afraid we haven't". She answered, although she seemed a bit more forceful in her demeanor, if only slightly. "You certainly don't seem to be an individual one would easily forget; I look forward to serving you, Lady Sara Valestein" The maid finished with a sweet smile.

"Why, thank you, Sharon Kreuger". Sara answered with a similar expression.

"…I think… I'm going to check if I have any mail…" With those words Rean towards his mailbox, glad to have an excuse to walk away from them; he couldn't quite place it but something about told him that those two under the same roof could lead to trouble.

As he examined the box he noticed two letters in them, as he read the names on them his lips curved into a smile.

'A nice way to end the day'.

BLOOPER

After Jusis had fall unconscious due to the rabbit.

"I'll wake him up". Emma said preparing one of her crafts.

"Wait, allow me". Machias interrupted and moved closer to Jusis, he stood on top of him and. "Hey Jusis, time to wake up"

SLAP

Slapped him, right in the face, but he didn't wake up.

"Rise and shine".

SLAP

"Up and at 'em".

SLAP.

"That's for the smug comments -slap- that's for never calling just to say 'hi' -slap- that's because I get aroused when I slap people -slap- that's because I feel like it -slap- WHY -slap- WON'T -slap- YOU -slap- WAKE -slap- UP -slap- that's because the writer keeps typing that I'm slapping you…"

Five minutes later.

"…-slap- that's because this just added a few more words to this chapter; I think he's not waking up".

The other members of the group just stared blankly.

"Let me try this time". Rean changed places with Machias and proceeded to slap him as well.

Chapter Text

"Some things never change". Rean said with an amused chuckle as he finished the first letter that was in the mailbox, he folded it and put it away. "Let's see Elise's now".

He took the other card out and began to read it.

"Hello Rean". The letter started. "I hope this letter finds you well, it has taken me some time to find the time to write due to certain circumstances and knowing you, you will probably start worrying if you didn't hear from me soon".

The black haired teen let out a chuckle at the comment although, if he was honest, it wasn't completely inaccurate.

"Please don't worry about me; while I still have much to learn before I feel like I deserve my status among the nobility I've been blessed with wonderful friends and I'm enjoying life here at the academy. I often feel more concerned for how you're faring in your own studies; Thors Military Academy is well known for its connections to Emperor Dreichels and its strenuous curriculum and I worry that the dangers you face in your training could catch even you by surprise someday"

'You don't know the half of it, little sis'. The swordsman noted, as far as he knows the field studies and Class VII aren't known outside of places that have some relation to it; be it the school itself, members of the board of directors, or the places where the field studies take place.

Not because it's a secret but because it's not something that would come up in conversation out of nowhere, then again he might be wrong.

He did send letters to Ymir and to Elise telling them about Class VII but at the time he wasn't aware of the field studies.

"I pray you don't neglect your own well-being; the world has many soldiers, but you're my only brother. Elise Schwarzer".

"You never change, do you, Elise?" The swordsman thought out loud with a chuckle. "Though, I'm not really one to talk…" He trailed off as he put the letter away and walked to his shelf, specifically, to the picture of his family they took before he left for Thors.

He closed his eyes as he reminisced some of the memories he made there, from spending time with his parents, to his sister, to his master, to-

…

As he saw his friend bleeding, he was brought back to reality when the monster lunged and as fast as he could react he got between it and his sister, taking most of the hit but both been sent several feet away regardless.

"Kah…" The boy grunted as he tried to breath again.

"Rean". His sister called out in tears while holding onto him.

'Dam-' Rean's thoughts were interrupted as he saw the beast's eyes again and-.

…

The Eight Leaves swordsman forced his eyes open and with it stopped that memory from going any further.

He shook his head a few times to rid himself of that thought and sighed.

'I should write back to her and to Ymir too'. He thought before tuning his radio to Abend time hoping that some of Misty's, in her own words, 'wit and charm' would help to distract him.

Time passed and soon enough it was Wednesday, in other words, the day of the practical exam for Class VII and coincidentally the day the test results are announced.

Which explained the large number of students standing in front of the board in the hallway looking at said results.

'All right, let's see…' Rean murmured, starting from the bottom up to look for his name.

On a side note, Class VII members' position, from worst to best were.

Fie at the 72nd spot of 99, Elliot at 36, Gaius at 20, Laura at 17, Alisa at 8, Rean at 7, Jusis at 3 and Emma and Machias tied for the first spot.

'I'm seven?!' The swordsman thought in disbelief. 'Well, that's got to be one of my best scores yet'.

"Phew! Didn't do as bad as I was afraid I would". Elliot said in relief. "I can't believe Emma and Machias tied for the top score".

"Congrats, Machias; you always put up some impressive numbers". Gaius congratulated.

"Looks like you made good on your word after all". Rean added.

"I-I suppose…" Machias answered neutrally, albeit a bit stiffly. "Emma is the real natural, though".

"Oh, not at all; we both just really hit those books this last month". The other bespectacled member of the class answered smiling.

"I'm glad everyone did so well". Alisa joined in happily.

"Agreed". Laura added. "I scored higher this last time than I did on the entrance exam".

"I suppose I'll have to settle for third this time". Jusis said, not looking the least bothered by his score.

"You make it look easy, Jusis". The musician of Class VII commented before turning to his black haired friend. "You must've really buckled down on your studies, too, Rean, landing in the top then like that".

"I'm surprised myself; but you guys did help me a lot after all". He answered in good nature. "There is that saying about a rising tide lifting all boats".

"…I feel a bit left out". Fie said, joining for the first time, with her normal deadpan tone; although glaring ever so slightly at her place in the board.

"You did really well, Fie". Emma said sincerely.

"You must've had all the basics down pretty well to have scored like you did". Alisa supported. "If you can build on that in the next exam, I have no doubts you'll be able to score even higher".

"I guess; if I feel like it". Fie answered with the smallest hint of a smirk. "By the way, there's something posted up over there". She pointed to the paper next to the exam results that had the average mark for every class.

In first place was Class VII, followed by Class I, then III, II, IV and finally V.

"It seems Class VII had the highest average score". The daughter of Viscount Arseid said, smiling proudly.

"Excellent; I figured that might be the case, considering we have the academy's top three high scorers". The blond archer said with the same expression.

"You talk as if a class I'm a member of could possibly fail to place first". The other blonde of Class VII said as if this result was the obvious outcome.

"Why do you always have to be so full of yourself…?" Machias said with a slight frown at his classmate's comment but still elated at the result in front of him.

"Boys, boys…" Emma stepped between so an argument wouldn't break out.

"I think we should be proud of what we've accomplished". Gaius stated.

"Me too; good work, everyone". Rean agreed.

"Hip hip hurraaaaaay". Fie celebrated.

None of the class VII members noted how the members of a certain class glared at them.

Before long it was time for the practical exam so now Class VII was in the academy field with Sara in front of them.

"Well, aren't you all the overachievers?" Sara said happily as she clapped. "Congrats on your amazing performance on the midterms! I'll cherish that grumpy look on the vice principal's face forever; that'll teach him to poke his nose into my business".

"We didn't do all that work just so you could stick it to him, you know…". Rean answered.

"Besides, you bring most of it on yourself". Alisa supported.

"Grrr… always tromping around like he owns the place with that smarmy mustache of his". And once again Instructor Sara made use of her incredible ability to ignore her students' comments. "It's one thing to gripe about work, but where does he get off telling me what to wear and how to behave in a bar?! Now he keeps telling me I need to hurry up and get married! Yeah, I'll marry my foot to your face, jackass…" She continued to mumble some other 'colorful' memories before coughing into her hand as to dismiss her earlier ramblings. "Aaaaaanyway, is everyone ready to leap boldly into this month's practical exam?" She snapped her fingers and the usual 'scarecrow' appeared.

As Class VII looked at it and thought how to best approach it, as it was certainly not the same as the last time they fought it, Rean couldn't help but notice something.

'Hold on… it's similar…'

"You notice, too, huh?" Fie stated more than ask while looking at him from the corner of her eyes.

"Yeah". The black haired teen confirmed. "Color's different, shape's different… yet it seems similar, somehow".

"The material, that's what's similar". The former jaeger answered earning a 'so that's what it was' look from her classmate. "Maybe-"

"Is something wrong?" Laura asked, noticing the two whispering to one another.

Fie actually jumped at the sudden question before looking away and saying a simple 'no', earning a glare from the swordswoman.

'Here they go again…' Rean thought tiredly.

"Heh; well, doesn't this look like fun?" A new voice asked from the stairs that lead to the field making everyone turn their heads to them.

"Class I?" Emma asked curiously seeing six members of Class I looking at them, four of them boys and two girls.

'…this is going to be bothersome'. Rean predicted noticing the mocking smirk on Patrick as they made their way down the stairs.

"What are THEY doing here…?" Machias asked, not at all masking his feelings on seeing them.

"To what do we owe the pleasure of this visit?" Sara asked not seeming bothered, just curious. "Class I's combat training isn't until tomorrow".

"Oh, Instructor Thomas' class was changed to a self-study period today…" The son of Marquis Hyarms began. "…so we thought it was the perfect opportunity for a little… cross-class exchange, if you will". As he said this he unsheathed the rapier at his waist and held it with his right hand with the hilt at his heart's height and pointing upwards. "Class VII seems to be the talk of the school lately, and we'd simply love the chance to get a little better acquainted".

"E-exchange…?" Elliot repeated the word, clearly warry of the noble's attitude.

"Judging by that rapier in your hand, I'm guessing you're not here to exchange pleasantries over tea and cookies". Rean noted, already knowing the answer.

"My, you're a sharp one, Schwarzer; nothing gets by you!" Patrick answered, with as much sarcasm as he could muster. "Why not try your steel against some real, human opponents instead of that contraption over there? We'd be more than happy to serve as representatives of Class I; allow us, if you will, to demonstrate the refined spirit and dignity of the Erebonian nobility".

"You little pieces of…" Machias had half a mind to stop muttering and voice his thoughts.

"Cool your jets, they're just trying to goad us into a fight". Alisa said glaring at the members of Class I.

"I'd be very interested to witness this 'refined spirit and dignity' you profess". Laura mentioned although, if her tone was any indication, she was also at least slightly bothered by their comments.

"Well, looks like I've found today's entertainment!" The oldest person there said happily, once again snapping her fingers to make the 'scarecrow' disappear.

'Oh, please tell me that doesn't mean what I think it means'. Even without the ARCUS, Class VII's thoughts for that moment were one and the same.

"All right, change of plans; today's practical exam will be a friendly training bout between Classes I and VII!"

"Splendid". One of the members of Class I said with a sneer.

"Instructor, would you listen to a request?" Patrick asked. "We are aware that Class VII's orbments have a special function that allows them to fight better in groups". He began. "We do not have that sort of advantage, so we would like if the training bouts would be four one-on-one duels".

"He starts a fight and now wants to put conditions for it?!" Alisa asked, clearly outraged and about to put an arrow between their eyes.

"Well, I don't see why not". Sara answered in good nature. "However I'll put a time limit since we don't have that much time; Rean, you'll be captain, so choose three other classmates for your team".

"…roger that". The black haired teen answered looking at the rest of Class VII. "Laura, Fie and-"

"Wait". Patrick interrupted. "I dislike the notion of fighting against women; it's a man's duty to protect the fragile flowers of womanhood, not to wound them". He said, his expression not betraying the fact that he does not like the odds of them fighting against the two, possibly, strongest first years. "Reconsider your team! And this time bring men to face us".

"Wh-who the hell-"

"And why should we do that?" Rean interrupted Alisa before she could finish; his face and tone completely deadpan.

"Eh?" One of Patrick's lackeys seemed confused at the question.

"You're the ones who came here and interrupted our training, or do you not trust your odds against these 'flowers'?"

"Wha-you should watch your tongue!" The same lackey lashed out.

"I have to agree with Rean". Jusis joined. "You interrupted us, asked for a fight and even put the condition of it being four one-on-one duels". His gaze turned to Sara. "Something we weren't consulted about before the Instructor agreed". The woman in question simply whistled innocently. "At this point, I don't see why we should comply with any more of your demands".

Normally the members of Class I would have an answer to that but since the one saying all this wasn't a commoner or a low ranking noble but the son of one of the Four Great Houses, they thought twice before speaking.

"Heh, does that mean you would make women fight your battles for you?" Patrick asked back.

"You said you wanted to face Class VII, we are also members of that class, in other words this is our fight as well". Laura answered.

"Oh, well; I guess it is expected from a class such as yours that most of the men would not have the courage to fight". Patrick said with a shrug earning more than one glare.

"…I say we give him what he wants". Machias' voice was heard. "If the oh so superior Class I wishes to only fight the men in our class I say we agree". 'Let's beat them on their own terms', the underlying meaning was understood by everyone.

Rean looked around the other men in Class VII to see what they think, no one seemed to mind either way except for Machias, so the decision would be in the girls' hands.

"I have no issues leaving this battle in your hands". Laura answered first.

"I don't mind". Fie agreed.

"Neither do I". Emma also gave her approval.

"Just make sure to win". Alisa finished.

"…all right, it seems you get what you want". Rean thought about who to choose now and went with. "Gaius, Machias and Jusis".

"Hmph". The 'leader' of Class I sneered. "He should have been among the ranks of Class I to begin with; I would rather hope a son of House Albarea would need no demonstration of the nobility's refined spirit and dignity; choose again!"

"Hmph". This time the sneer came from Class VII's member of the Four Great Houses. "One would almost think you're trying to postpone the inevitable". Class I ignored the comment.

"It looks like fighting someone from one of the Four Great Houses might be biting off more than he wants to chew". Alisa muttered.

"Do we comply?" Rean asked Jusis.

"I guess I can step down this time, I trust you are able to defeat them". The blond noble answered.

"Well, that only leaves four of us". The Eight Leaves practitioner said as him, Elliot, Gaius and Machias moved a bit away from the rest of Class VII. "We're ready".

"Great, each team choose your first contender, arts will be allowed". Sara said happily.

"I'll be going first then". One of the members of Class I with blue hair said as he took a step forward. "Feel free to take your time choosing, it's not like the result would change".

"Grr… do you three mind if I go first?" Machias asked the rest of his team.

"W-well, it's not that I mind but…"

"Will you be okay?" Gaius finished after Elliot trailed off.

"You tend to let your temper get the better of you in these kinds of situations". Rean added. "Not that I blame you in this particular instance". Everyone nodded in agreement. "But at the very least I don't think he is someone you can defeat if you let your anger get the better of you".

"Indeed, even a fool can be dangerous with a blade in hand". Jusis said, having approached the Class VII representatives. "They are most likely well trained, whatever deficiencies they may have otherwise". He looked at Machias dead in the eyes. "Make sure you don't underestimate them".

"…got it". The class vice president answered, the others nodding in agreement.

"You guys ready?" Sara asked.

"Yes, Instructor". The orbal shotgun user confirmed and moved to stand in front of his opponent who took out a rapier and stood in the same stance as Patrick before.

"Alright, limit will be ten minutes, if there is no winner by that time then it will be declared a draw; any objections?"

"None". Machias answered first.

"It will be over long before that".

"Then… begin!"

Immediately after the signal was given Machias took aim and pulled the trigger, his shotgun already modified so the bullets would only paralyze at worst and not kill.

The member of Class I started to run to the side and circle around him, every now and then stopping to throw off his attacker's aim and take a step closer.

"Hmph, such an unrefined weapon". As he said this he stopped for a moment and moved his sword to the side as much as he could, it started to glow yellow and when he swung the rapier it shot out an arc-shaped energy, similar to Rean's Arc slash.

'Shit!' The green haired teen barely had enough time to move out of the way as the attack passed him and cut the side of his clothes; however, the moment he stopped firing…

"You're mine". The noble said, already in range of attack and thrusting his rapier at the Class VII vice-president's torso. 'Hmph, I win'. He could already see his opponent on the ground at his feet, defeated and aware of his place.

He was so sure of his victory that when Machias used his shotgun to parry the attack he wasn't able to process what had happened immediately.

"Eh?" As he asked this he felt a blunt object connect with the back of his head and force him to the ground on his knees, he had to use his hands to avoid falling completely; just then he felt a cold round object.

"I win". Machias declared, the muzzle of his shotgun touching the back of the noble's head. 'I will not thank him'. He thought to himself.

Flashback

A few weeks ago, during combat training.

"Aghhh". The son of governor Regnitz grunted as he kneeled from the blow his opponent connected.

"Hmph, you're as weak at close range as ever". Jusis said with a smirk, his sword pointing at his shoulder before he relaxed his stance and took a step back.

"Shut up!" Machias yelled as he got back on his feet. "One more time".

"That's fine by me". The blond noble answered taking a few steps of distance. "On your mark".

"…now!"

Machias took aim and tried to shoot the noble but every time he pulled the trigger his bullets only hit the air, before long he was once again on his knees.

"Damn it" He cursed through clenched teeth.

"I don't get it". Jusis said; his tone one of genuine confusion. "Is your shotgun so frail that you can't use it to protect yourself at close range?"

"…huh?" The green haired teen asked before thinking on his words.

An orbal shotgun, like any sort of orbal long range weapon, is used for long range fights and to keep any close-range fighters at bay; that's the advantage it has over say, swords, for example.

But if an enemy actually manages to get close and he can't shoot them, is he defenseless?

"Then again, I don't think it costed any substantial amount so maybe it really is". The noble added with another smirk.

"Heh, why don't you try that again and we'll see how frail my shotgun is". Machias answered with the same expression.

"By all means". Jusis once again took a few steps of distance and waited for his training partner's signal.

"Now!"

It was a repeat of last time, Jusis dodged Machias' shots and slowly but surely made it near Machias and attempted a thrust.

Only this time Machias used his shotgun, grabbing it with one hand at the stock and the other near the end of the barrel, to force the sword away.

In his position he couldn't move back to a shooting stance so instead he let go of the stock and with both hands on the barrel swung it down.

Only for Jusis to literally make the weapon go flying away with a well-placed slash before pointing his sword at Machias' throat.

"Hmph, so at least it can take two hits from a sword, although you looked like a monkey swinging a club".

"...sh-shut up!"

"Hehe, well at least now you know that you don't have to panic and let yourself get hit when an opponent gets close, congratulations for learning something that isn't written on a book".

Machias simply glared, not having a good comeback for those words.

End of flashback.

"Stop!" Sara ordered. "First fight goes to Class VII".

"Wh-wha…?" The Class I representative seemed to still be dazed. "W-wait! I was simply-"

"Caught off guard, yes, in other words you lost". The instructor interrupted, her expression still relaxed but her tone made it clear that she won't accept any arguments.

"I-I…"

Machias silently put his shotgun back on its holder and walked to his classmates.

"Nice going, Machias!" Elliot congratulated.

"You showed quick reflexes there". Gaius complimented with a nod.

"I wasn't about to lose to one of them". The green haired teen answered, he momentarily glanced at Jusis, who glanced back, and pushed his glasses with a smirk on his face.

The member of the Four Great Houses chuckled in amusement at the gesture.

Neither of them would thank each other nor accept thanks from the other… not verbally at least.

"Grr… damn it". The Class I member cursed as he picked himself up and walked towards the rest of his classmates.

There were no words exchanged, just the loser hanging his head trying to avoid the looks he was receiving.

"Hmph, well it seems I need to clean up after him". Another member of Class I, this one with light brown hair said as he took out his rapier and moved forwards. "Who shall be my opponent?"

"…who wants to go?" Rean asked.

"I…I'll go". Elliot answered.

"Are you sure?" Gaius asked a bit concerned at seeing how nervous his red-haired friend was.

"Y-yeah, I'm nervous enough as it is, I rather go now than later".

"I'm fine with it, Gaius?"

"Fine by me". The tallest member of Class VII answered. "Do your best, Elliot".

"Yeah, I will". The musician answered taking out his orbal. "Any last-minute advice?"

"Fight him where you're strong". The Eight Leaves practitioner answered.

"…hmm, right". He answered a bit confused at the meaning before moving to his position.

"Hmph, so they sent their weakest member; they must be underestimating me". The noble said pointing his sword at Elliot. "A mistake you will pay for". He added with a glare.

If this was a few months ago, that glare alone would have been enough to make Elliot tremble or at the very least doubt if he should really be doing this.

But when compared with the monster he was forced to face without the option of escaping in his field studies, it had next to no effect; granted, in that fight he had the rest of Group A to help him but the pressure that a human of his age can exert and the one a monster triple his size can exert are very different.

Elliot took a few deep breaths to calm himself and got ready.

"Same time limit, you two ready?" Sara asked earning two nods 'yes'. "Then begin!"

"ARCUS activate". Elliot commanded immediately raising his orbal staff.

Like Rean said, he needs to fight his opponent where he's strong and that certainly isn't at close range, the musician is aware that if there was a ranking of strength in Class VII for individual fighting prowess then he would be near, if not at, the bottom of that ranking.

Not only doesn't he have any sort of combat training prior to coming to Thors but, even with the orbal staff helping him cast artes, almost any one of his classmates is capable of closing the distance before the art is released or shooting something at him faster than he can cast it.

Even though he doesn't know his opponent from Class I he is aware it's likely that he can do the same.

That's why he will go for speed rather than power.

When someone wants to cast an art, he or she activates the orbment's power source usually with a voice command, such as the 'ARCUS activate', then this power source starts up and according to the user's wishes generates enough orbal energy to affect the surrounding environment, the longer this source can do its job, the larger and stronger the art will be.

In the same way, the less time its active the less powerful the art but also the faster it can be cast.

It's not the same to summon a mass of water the size of a football than it is to summon a lake.

"Aqua bleed". And even if it's small that doesn't mean it won't hurt if it connects.

The mass of water was immediately propelled towards the Class I representative who barely managed to sidestep it and only receive a glancing blow on his left shoulder instead of a full hit on his body.

"Hmph, so you want to make this a battle of artes?" The light brown haired noble asked with a sneer before taking out his own orbment. "Very well then, take this, Aerial!"

'Fast!' Elliot thought a bit panicked as he noticed the wind around him start to swirl, turning into a tornado that forced him off the ground and spun him around like a rag doll for a few seconds before dying down and throw him in the opposite direction of the noble, leaving a smoke screen of the dirt in the field between them.

"Please call the match Inst-" He was interrupted when a pointed boulder of rock hit him straight in the torso and sent him flying back a few feet knocking the air out of him. "W-What the…?!"

As the smoke cleared it revealed Elliot on one knee, his orbal staff pointing at the noble showing that he just sent that art.

'I somehow made it'. The musician thought between pants, his uniform a mess and his hair and face covered in the dirt from the tornado and when he rolled on the floor after been thrown; he didn't have time to dodge the arte that was somehow cast almost instantly so instead of moving or bracing for the impact he opted for something a lot more reckless: to prepare an arte while in the middle of it.

He honestly thought he would be knocked out while spinning around, if someone were to ask him later then he would say that it was likely that he did actually lose consciousness but there was no way to be sure and he was certainly NOT going to try again and find out.

"You commoner!" The noble seethed as if the word was an insult before lunging with his sword in hand.

He had long forgotten what he said earlier about making this a battle of artes, right now he would bring the red haired first year to his knees and that will be it.

Elliot didn't have time to cast another art before his opponent would reach him but there was still one thing he could do; he needed time, though, so he would have to hold on till it was ready.

Using his staff to stand up again he raised it for a moment before hitting the ground with the underside once, a sound was heard and a yellow glow appeared beneath Elliot for a second before dissipating.

"Hah!" The brown haired noble exclaimed as he thrusted his sword forward, aiming for Elliot's left arm, the stab found its mark but was a lot shallower than what someone would expect, it still drew blood but it wasn't anything that could actually hinder the afflicted.

The orbal staff user jumped back and swung his weapon at the same time, several bubbles appearing and forcing the noble to step back and then to the side to avoid them.

The member of Class I then forced his way forward and started to slash at Elliot who placed his orbal staff in the middle of the attacks, it blocked a few but it was clear which one of them knows how to fight at close range.

For every hit Elliot managed to block he felt two or three passing his guard and slashing at him, if it wasn't because he used that technique before then he would probably be out of the fight by now, but he couldn't let up yet.

'Just a little longer'.

"Fall already" The noble exclaimed with annoyance and thrusting his sword at Elliot's lower left leg, luckily for Class I the reinforcement the musician had self-casted worn out and the sword found little resistance as it cut flesh.

'Now'. The red-haired member of Class VII was starting to fall on his back, the last hit having made him lost balance but at that time he decided to cast an arte.

It's true that to cast an art. an order has to be given, however, it doesn't necessarily has to be a verbal one.

The moment Elliot noticed that the fight would be at close range he knew that he couldn't activate his ARCUS and stay still long enough for an art to be cast but there was another way to do it.

By focusing, one can make the orbment start to gather energy without giving that energy a clear purpose, instead simply been stored and waiting to be used, there are a few drawbacks such as a longer time before an art can actually be used but an experienced art user could even make his orbment collect energy while still firing other arts the normal way.

Elliot isn't at that level yet, but since he wasn't in a position to cast arts the normal way. Regardless he opted to let his orbment charge up.

The good thing about this method is that.

"Frost edge". If enough energy has been generated then any art can be casted instantly.

Around the Class I noble four points of water appeared, two at the side, one in front and one in the back, they all suddenly freeze and adopted a shape similar to a small curved blade, all of them then spun around half a circle while approaching their objective and hit it dead on.

Thump.

Just at his arte ended, the caster hit the ground, his breath ragged and his clothes a mess but feeling strangely well.

"Ghh…" The light brown-haired swordsman grunted in pain but forced himself to keep standing.

"Stop!" Sara ordered. "Winner is Class I".

"Hehe, of course I win". The victor of the fight boasted as he sheathed his rapier. "I hope this teaches you your plac-"

"You okay Elliot?" Rean interrupted without looking at the member of Class I, having walked up to them the moment the match was decided.

"Y-yeah". The musician answered between pants. "S-sorry, I-"

"You have nothing to be sorry for". The swordsman interrupted as he helped him up. "It was a great fight".

"Hmph, pitying the loser?" The winner of the fight sneered.

"Can you walk?"

"Y-yeah, I can't move my left leg much, though". Elliot answered, using his orbal staff for support.

"You probably got a sliced tendon or something; but don't worry, some first aid and rest and you should be good as new". Rean assured his friend. "Want me to help?"

"Thanks, I'm fine really".

"There is no need to act tough". The winner of the fight said; not out of concern, his tone made that much clear. "After a defeat like that, no one would blame you for being a burden".

"That guy has the nerve to say that when he seems about to fall over". Machias said through gritted teeth.

"It's okay, don't worry about it". The red-haired teen assured the vice president of Class VII, not that it did much.

"I hope this serves as a valuable lesson about where you stand".

"Snrk". That snort was the most Rean had acknowledged the presence of the noble so far.

"…is there something you want to say?"

"Oh, I was just thinking that I still have a lot to learn". The Eight Leaves swordsman answered with that same smile he had when Patrick went to him about the nobles' salon. "If ridiculing an opponent after a duel is part of the 'refined spirit and dignity' of a noble then I'm really a failure as one".

"You have a rather sharp tongue I see, is your blade as sharp?" The member of Class I asked with a glare.

"Guess you will find out when I fight one of your classmates" He said back. "You are in no condition to make me use my sword after all".

As he heard those words the brown-haired noble charged against Rean, his still unsheathed rapier poised for a thrust.

Rean had noticed during the fight that this guy was skilled, not to the level of someone like Laura but definitely not someone to just ignore; his thrusts in particular were fast.

When he is at his best, that is.

A few inches before the sword would make contact Rean moved his left leg behind his right, using the right one as a pivot, and just like that he was no longer in the sword's path.

In the middle of that dodge he had moved his left arm with the hand just above his forehead and his right arm to his hip with the palm open.

Faster than the noble could react Rean hit his wrist with the palm of his right hand, literally making the sword go flying away from his grip and land near the rest of Class I's group.

"What…?"

"Hey!" Sara spoke up. "I agreed to these bouts but don't start fighting on your own". Or else wasn't said but the Instructor's aura made it clear that there would be consequences if that happened again.

Holding his wrist the noble scoffed before walking away back to his group, as did Rean.

"You can fight unarmed?" Gaius asked surprised.

"I'm better with a sword but my master drilled the unarmed form of the Eight Leaves into my body to the point I could probably do it in my sleep". He answered.

"Although I don't think I could have managed to do that to him if Elliot hadn't tire him out beforehand"

"Speaking of which". The exchange student looked at Elliot curiously.

"Something wrong?" He asked.

"I've seen that arte you used at the end during our field study, did you modify it somehow?"

"Ah, yes; I made it so the blades wouldn't have an edge to them, if that arte is enough to kill a monster I don't think a human would fare better".

"True". Machias answered. "Although just a bit injured wouldn't have been fine". He added in perfect deadpan.

The musician just laughed nervously.

"Well, so far is one win each, let's get to the next duel, shall we?" Sara said in good nature.

Another noble, this one with dark brown hair, stepped forward and wordlessly waited for Class VII to decide who will be his opponent.

"Do you want to go Rean?" Gaius asked.

"I don't mind either way… should we decide with this?" Rean raised a hand and formed a fist.

"Sure". Gaius did the same.

"Rock, paper, scissors". They showed their hands and.

"Guess I'll go". The lancer said, his hand open in 'paper'.

"Yep". The noble from Ymir confirmed, his hand still forming a 'rock'.

"Good luck Gaius".

The tallest student in the academy field walked forward and prepared his spear.

"Ready?"

"Yes, Instructor".

"I'm ready".

"Then… begin!"

Unlike the previous two duels this one started silently, neither of the two combatants made a move to attack and they simply circled each other, both looking for an opening to strike and sizing the other up.

This continued for around half a minute when both stopped moving having made a complete circle and back to their starting positions.

They both took a deep breath-

And then the noble from Class I rushed as fast as he was able, his sword poised for a horizontal slash.

Gaius intercepted the weapon and used the head to parry the rapier down; he immediately attempted a thrust but the noble from Class I reacted in time and jumped to the side.

At the same time, he jumped to the side he did an upward slash with his sword but due to the momentum he used to dodge it only grazed Gaius' arm while he got a cut on his left cheek.

As if the previous clash hadn't happened they were back to maintaining their distance and look for an opening.

This time however it lasted a lot less, with Gaius been the one in the offensive.

He took advantage of the reach his spear gave him and relied on thrusts in order to keep pressure on his opponent, especially considering the form of the spearhead made it so even if the tip that pointed straight didn't hit one of the other two still could.

Class I's representative was doing a good job of avoiding his opponent's attacks, mainly dodging but also placing his rapier in the middle of one of the irregular edges in case he couldn't move out of the way in time.

This type of exchange continued for several minutes, both quickly clashing weapons just to then take distance, wait a few moments, and then repeat the same process with Class I been the one in a disadvantageous position.

He wasn't just playing defensive, though; every time he avoided a hit he moved a bit closer in order to prepare his counter; which he eventually found during their nth exchange of blows when Gaius over-strained himself in one of his thrusts giving him enough time to go pass the end of the spear by his right side and close the distance, his rapier already poised for a slash.

The exchange student from Nord didn't have time to try and move his spear back into a position that would allow him to block the attack, he was mere inches away from the rapier's range; however, he had enough time for one thing.

Even if the head of a spear is the only part that can cut the rest of it isn't just used for added range, the pole itself is part of the weapon after all.

So instead of moving his spear back he used all the strength he could muster in his position and swung sideways, hitting the noble just above his left elbow and sending him a few feet to the side.

Not wasting time been surprised by the hit or the pain in his left arm, Class I's representative stabilized himself and using the position he was already in utilized the same technique his first companion had used sending a yellow slash at Gaius.

Gaius hadn't been able to completely regain his balance after forcing the noble away so when he saw the attack coming at him the only thing he could do was place his spear in the middle in an attempt to block it; it worked for the most part, the attack only cut his clothes instead of him, but the impact nearly forced him to his knees.

The fight stopped for a moment after that exchange as both regained their breath.

"Guys, one-minute remaining". Sara announced.

With the instructor's announcement the fighters stopped their momentary truce and prepared once again.

Class I's representative changed his usual stance, placing his right leg behind his left one and bending both knees while his sword was poised horizontal to the ground and pointing at the exchange student.

Class VII's representative instead stood with both feet in the same line, raised his spear above his head and started to spin it with both hands.

It was clear for anyone to see that the next exchange would be the last.

There was no signal to give but even so both knew when the clash will happen.

The noble started his dash, his sword never leaving the position he started in, and as fast as he was able he thrusted the rapier; he was a mere inch or two away from his opponent.

So, when the next moment he was looking at the sky and couldn't feel the ground, his confusion was reasonable.

THUD

"...what…?" The noble student could only trail off trying to understand what had happened.

The answer was simple actually.

Just before he reached Gaius, the exchange student had in one fluid motion stopped spinning his spear and made a sweep with the entire length of his weapon, barely faster than the thrust from the rapier, and aimed at his legs making the noble student lose his footing; which in turn left him vulnerable against the tornado he had created using the centrifuge force and sent him flying upwards.

"…well…" Class I's representative only said this as he struggled to get back on his feet. "I yield".

"Third fight goes to Class VII". The Instructor announced.

Class VII's members celebrated to various degrees, some doing a high five with each other, others smiling or smirking and some saying 'YES!' rather loudly.

Class I on the other hand scowled, some clicked their tongues, giving the fact that no matter how the next fight goes they can at most draw with Class VII and when they came to the academy field they were looking for an absolute victory.

"Alriiiight, there is only one fight left so both combatants please step forward". Sara said and without any other words Rean and Patrick moved to face each other.

"Go get him Rean". Elliot encouraged.

"May the winds blow in your favor".

"Thanks". The swordsman answered before unsheathing his sword.

"You both ready?" A silent nod was the only response the Instructor got. "Then… begin!"

Similar to Gaius' duel, the fight started silently neither of the combatants moved from their initial position until Patrick broke the silence.

"I'm rather disappointed". The noble from Class I spoke. "We came here for an absolute victory but my fellow classmates have proven to be… less than competent enou-"

In the middle of his talk he had relaxed his stance for a moment to shrug and Rean took advantage of it by closing the distance and doing a downward slash.

To Patrick's credit, he managed to recompose himself fast enough to block the attack but if he was prepared then a parry would have been done with ease.

"Talking is not a free action". Rean said with their swords still locked before jumping back.

"Hmph, if that's how it's going to be". This time the member of the Four Great Houses attacked.

He attempted a thrust aimed at Rean's heart.

The Eight Leaves practitioner parried it and countered with a slash at his opponent's mid-section.

Patrick jumped back, barely dodging the slash that ended up only cutting his clothes, and the moment he made contact with the ground again dashed forward and did a downwards cut at Rean's forearm.

Not having time to block or parry, the black-haired swordsman side-stepped to avoid the attack.

The blond court fencer didn't let up on his attack though and quickly followed with a mix of thrusts and slashes to not give his opponent enough time to regain his balance.

Rean was forced in the defensive and had to rely on his reflexes in order to avoid any real damage, some attacks passing through his guard but only damaging his clothes or doing superficial cuts at best.

Luckily for the black-haired teen he had two advantages in this fight.

First, although not unknown, the Eight Leaves One blade school didn't have many practitioners in Erebonia; as far as Rean knows he is the only practitioner of that style in the empire except for when his master decides to visit, in other words, in a fight between swordsmen his attacks were more likely to caught someone off guard simply because they are not accustomed to see them.

Second, Patrick's style was court fencing, Rean is no expert but it was easy to recognize the style favored by the nobility and he has had a good amount of experience fighting that particular style thanks to the times he has fought Jusis during combat training.

So, when Patrick retrieved his rapier to prepare his next attack it was easy to anticipate it would be a thrust, make a step to the side even before the attack actually began and answer with a diagonal slash from the bottom left.

At seeing how Class VII's representative moved out of the way even before he actually attacked Patrick's senses went into overdrive at realizing what was happening, not only was his attack predicted but he was already in the middle of executing it, he didn't have enough time to alter the course or stop it fast enough to retaliate.

Luckily, he had prepared a countermeasure for a situation like this.

'Try again, Schwarzer'. He tapped his combat orbment that he had been feeding mana since the duel began and immediately three gold spheres around the size of a football appeared above them before they all converged on the floor beneath the Eight Leaves swordsman sending him flying away with a minor explosion; since he was standing really close Patrick's arte did hurt him a bit but he was already jumping away so the worst of it was avoided.

"Rean!" Several members of Class VII called out in worry.

"-cough, cough- Hmph, that's what you get Schwarzer". The member of the Hyarms house said sneering as he recovered from the damage he had to endure before facing the rest of Class VII's representatives. "How about one more duel to break the tie? I'll face any one of you".

"Hey". Whatever reply Class VII was about to make was interrupted when a blue arc soared towards Patrick who barely managed to get out of the way to only have a few strands of hair cut off instead of his neck.

"I never said the fight was over". Sara spoke, her smile a bit wider than before.

Without giving the last representative of Class I anytime to reply Rean rushed, not been out of balance this time he was more than able to pass on the offensive.

Patrick blocked the first few hits but quickly started to answer in kind to the attacks.

And so, started a continuous exchange of sword strikes, both attacking as much as defending.

If nothing else Rean had to admit that Patrick was skilled, even when caught off guard by his less known style he was able to adapt fast enough to avoid a fatal hit and eventually adapt to it.

That been said, he had no intention of losing.

Even with a good timed counter Patrick proved that he was prepared, having that art ready if Rean were to try that, if he wanted to counter then he would have to attack him faster than he can react.

And he had the perfect technique for that.

He continued to trade slashes looking for any sort of habit or recurrent move his opponent would make and after around three minutes he found it.

Whenever Patrick made a perfect horizontal slash his arm would always move back just after he deemed it would not hit in order to follow with a thrust.

That window of opportunity was enough for Rean to take advantage of.

So, the next time he did that motion the black-haired swordsman parried it to not completely stop the attack and still move his own sword to his left side, immediately sheathing it.

Patrick noticed this action and was confused but didn't think too much of it, he continued with his thrust while his free hand moved closer to his orbment just in case; just as he started to thrust.

'The fourth form: Autumn Leaf Cutter'.

Rean disappeared from his sight.

The look of surprise in his face was quickly replaced with one of pain as he fell to one knee and clutched his stomach.

"D-did Rean just do that thing he did when he cut Lunaria Nature Park's lock?!" Alisa asked in shock.

"Don't worry Alisa". Laura spoke to reassure her, understanding why she was distressed. "Look at the way he is holding his sword".

"Eh?" Emma asked as both she and the archer looked at Rean's weapon.

"Oh, he used the flat side".

"Enough!" Sara spoke, the winner of the bout decided with that last attack. "With a score of three to one the winning team is…" She did a dramatic pause, although it was annoying more than anything since everyone present knew the result. "Class VII".

"The victory is ours!" Laura said with a smile, proud of her classmates.

"Yeah! We showed them!" Alisa joined in with the same expression.

"Not bad". Fie praised with a small grin.

"A passable performance". Jusis added crossing his arms while hiding, unsuccessfully, a smirk of his own.

Taking a few deep breaths to calm himself Rean sheathed his sword.

"How does it taste, choking down your own hubris?" Machias asked with not repressed satisfaction.

"Th-this can't be happening". Machias' opponent said, as if this result was not possible.

"How could we lose to this… this rabble?!" Elliot's opponent added.

Gaius' opponent only stood silently while Patrick growled in frustration while clenching his injured stomach with one hand.

"That was a good fight". Rean praised while walking towards his opponent.

He had several issues with Patrick's attitude but he gave credit where it was due and he had clearly trained his swordsmanship, if nothing else he can respect that.

"You got me in the defensive a lot of times". Just as he moved in front of Patrick he extended his hand to help him up. "If we get another chance, how about a-" Rematch, he didn't get to say that last word because the Class I member had roughly shoved his hand away with his left one.

"Get your filthy hands off me!" Patrick yelled, surprising almost everyone present before standing up, his rage helping to numb the pain from the Ymir noble's last attack. "Don't you dare start acting like you're above me, Rean Schwarzer".

"I wasn't-"

"Just because Ymir's lord took you in out of pity doesn't change the fact that you're a nobody without a drop of noble blood!"

Shocked by that statement Rean went quiet.

"Y-you son of a-".

"The rest of you are no better!" Patrick continued, cutting off Machias' choice of words. "Did you somehow think scoring highest on the exams would mask the fact that you crawled up from the dregs of society?" He turned to Alisa, who was glaring daggers at him. "What of you, Reinford? A family of upstart arms peddlers who think being flush with money is all the pedigree they need?!" His gaze turned to Fie and then to Gaius. "And what of the barbarian and your jaeger-tot? I'm surprised they could even read the enrollment forms!"

Gaius remained impassive, very much aware that he was the 'barbarian'.

"Wh-what the hell…?" For once Machias didn't respond to a noble's comments, he was used to see them looking down on others but not to them outright throw direct insults at people.

"I won't deny how the Reinford Company made its millions". Alisa answered; her face impassive although her glare was still very much present.

"Am I the 'jaeget-tot'?" Fie asked with half open eyes, already aware of the answer.

"What terrible things to say". Emma commented with a sad expression.

Even the other members of Class I seemed to be against him saying those words.

"Silence!" He ordered. "You don't tell me what I can and can't say!"

"…how utterly foul". Laura said shaking his head in disgust.

"Enough of this-"

"I'm not sure I understand, maybe you can clear things up". Gaius spoke over Jusis gaining everyone's attention. "What IS it about nobles that makes them superior to those who aren't?" Despite the insults that were just thrown at him, his face looked impassive.

This was a pretty clear give away of how annoyed he was, Gaius was NEVER impassive, 'calm' usually and a myriad of other expressions when he is with his classmates but not impassive.

"I won't deny that I'm not from this country, that's as plain as the nose on my face". The exchange student continued. "Back in my homeland, we don't really have anything like your class system, so the concept is pretty foreign to me; really, I mean no offense by asking, but I want to know what it is that elevates nobles above the rest of the people".

"Wh-wha…?" Patrick almost asked 'what?' as if that question was something he couldn't understand, after a few seconds, he composed himself and answered. "The superiority of nobles is self-evident! We come from families of distinguished lineage, built on generations of tradition! That gives us a dignity, refinement, and pride that those of common birth could never hope to possess! We represent the pinnacle of man's achievement. THAT is what makes us nobles!"

"Mm… I see". Gaius began to answer with his eyes closed. "I've witnessed that dignity and refinement myself; I see it in how Laura and Jusis carry themselves but that leads me to another question". He opened his eyes, his gaze still impassive. "I can understand the importance of tradition, lineage, dignity, pride, I get why those would matter…" Just before his next sentence his gaze hardened. "…but where do you think they let you get off saying the kinds of things you did?"

"I-I…" Partly because of Gaius' glare and mostly because he didn't know how to answer to that, Patrick could only stammer before trailing off.

Patrick's lackeys were about to suggest that he apologizes.

"Heh… Gaius raises an excellent question!" When a certain Instructor finally decided to step in. "I'd say this marks the end of our mock battle; many thanks to the members of Class I for their gracious cooperation". She then smirked. "Oh, and just for future reference, 'self-study' doesn't mean 'wander around outside doing whatever you want'". Sara turned to the two girls that had been watching and told them to go back to the classroom, after a quick 'excuse us' they did just that. "I've decided that for your combat training tomorrow, I'll be pointing out everything you did wrong today". She turned back to the 'representatives' of Class I but her gaze was mostly on Patrick. "I'll give you the full, shameful play-by-play, of course, but I want you to really think about where you need to improve".

Patrick scoffed, loudly, before turning his back to the Instructor and Class VII.

"…very well, excuse us". And just like that walked away, his lackeys following soon after.

"Whew…" Elliot sighed in relief once Class I couldn't be seen anymore, his wounds already healed thanks to Emma. "For a while there, I was worried that was really going to get ugly".

"As far as I'm concerned, it already had". Machias answered, glaring at Class I's direction. "THIS is exactly why I can't stand nobles".

"Please, don't place me in the same category as that imbecile". Jusis said, also glaring at the nobles' direction.

"Thanks, Gaius". Rean said to his taller friend. "That meant a lot to me".

"Eh? Not sure why you're thanking me…" Gaius answered in genuine confusion. "…but whatever I did, I'm glad to have helped".

Rean let out a chuckle at the very 'Gaius-like' answer.