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Chapter Text

Chapter 1: Placing the Bet
Disclaimer: The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel belongs to Falcom.

Another Roll of the Dice

by Storm Wolf77415, and Centurious the Azure

Placing the Bet

There was nothing but pain. Pain, anger, hate, and sorrow tinged in the deep red of freshly spilled blood. The crack of a single gunshot. A tattered and bloodied pink headband with wing decorations and ribbons fluttering to the muddy ground. A young woman's anguished cry. A shooting pain erupting in his stomach, and a deep, husky feminine voice uttering two words in a sorrowful tone. "I'm sorry." With that Rean Schwarzer awakened.

"ELISE!" He catapulted up in bed, drenched in sweat. Rean panted heavily. Calming down some, he then took note of where he was. "This looks like…my dorm room?" Looking around, there were all the sights he remembered. A rice paper scroll with Eastern-style characters. A pair of textbooks sitting on his nightstand, along with a framed portrait of his parents, Baron Teo Schwarzer, his wife, Baroness Lucia Schwarzer, and a young woman with long black hair, his younger sister, Elise Schwarzer.

He got out of bed, finding another surprise. He was wearing the familiar red jacket indicating his status as a student of Thors Military Academy's Class VII. "It is my dorm room, and why I am wearing my uniform?" He looked out the window to see the familiar sight of the small town of Trista before him. A cloudy gray sky overhead. "How did I end up here? Was that whole thing just a really bad nightmare?" It unnerved him just how silent it was. He left the room, stepping out into the hall. "Hello? Eliot? Gaius? Fie? Is anyone here?"

"Alisa? Machias? Millium? Sharon! Are you guys around?" He checked every floor, every door. The story was the same, everything locked uptight. He knocked, but silence was the only response he got. Rean was starting to get very irritated at the silent calm. It just no made sense for there to be no one around. "What is going on here?" He came back down the steps to the second floor. His gaze fell on one door in particular marked "206". He sighed, recalling the occupant of that particular room.

He made one last round of the dormitory, hoping to find some evidence of his classmates. "Laura? Jusis? Emma? Instructor Sara?" It was all to no avail. None of his classmates seemed to be present. Frustrated, Rean crashed down on the sofa in the common area, arm covering his face. "This doesn't make any sense at all. Last I remembered, I was in North Ambria with Valimar, when…when." He trailed off, trying to grasp at the faded memories. Everything was a jumble to the confused young warrior.

"When you died." Rean's sat bolt upright and laid eyes on the face of someone he never expected to see again. Leaning against the wall, was a tall, lanky young man with silvery gray hair held back by a white bandana, also clad in the strident Class VII red. "Hey buddy, welcome to the other side." He strolled over, taking a seat across from Rean, a sad look in his eyes. "Although, I wish you hadn't come here yet."

"C-crow?" Rean couldn't believe his eyes, "This isn't some cruel joke, right? It's really you?" Crow Armbrust, another member of Class VII, and someone Rean had a very complicated history with. During his time at Thors Military Academy Rean had gotten involved in searching an old schoolhouse that contained a powerful robotic weapon called a Divine Knight, Valimar the Ashen Knight. It turned out that Crow had his own, Ordine, the Azure Knight. The two had ended up coming to blows when their country, the Erebonian Empire erupted into a nasty civil war, forcing them both on opposing sides.

Crow had died during the final battle of the war. Something that had greatly affected Rean. But seeing that easy-going smirk made him realize this wasn't any kind of hallucination. "The one and only." The Azure Awakener drawled in his usual lazy manner, but the smirk quickly faded. "But like I said, you should not be here, Rean." He sat back, folding his arms. "Then again, given what happened I can hardly blame you."

"I think I must have hit my head or something, did you say…I died?" Rean asked. "Because if we're dead, then why are we here at the dorms in Trista?"

The older boy shrugged. "I figured waking up in a familiar place would ease the shock some. But yeah, you're just like me, Rean. Dead as dirt. The only problem is that you weren't supposed to die in North Ambria. You were supposed to live to be an old man with your loving, blue-haired wife at your side, and an assload of blue-haired children and grandchildren running around Legram while waving their little swords."

Rean was taken aback. "You're saying Laura and I got married?"

His old rival laughed. "Well yeah! I mean, let's face it, man, it's no secret how close the two of you became before the civil war." He let out a knowing little chuckle. "I still remember how long the two of you danced at the school festival's after-party. Such a happy couple off in your own little world. Towa thought it was just too cute."

Memories of a stately young woman with long blue hair tied in a ponytail, wielding a massive claymore with grace and precision, came to Rean's mind. Laura S. Arseid, yet another member of Class VII, and if Rean had to be honest with himself, the girl he loved. "I suppose I can't argue with you there." Rean groaned, wanting something to drink at that moment. "So this is it huh? I'm stuck here in this place with you for all eternity then?"

The Azure Awakener looked to his Ashen counterpart, a look of irritation crossing his face before standing up. "Geez man, you're really just giving up?" He sighed. "Okay, sure! We can stay here until the end of time. I've got my Blade cards with me. I have no problem going at it with you. While we're chilling here. The whole world can just go straight to Gehenna in a handbasket because that's what happens with you dead, Rean!"

Again, Rean found himself taken aback by his friend's words. It took a few minutes for Crow to steady himself, before sitting back down. "With you dead, the empire, scratch that, the entire damn continent goes down a very dark path. Osborne won, he reigns supreme, and everything we know, and love is gone! You want it to be that way, Rean? Are you that apathetic that the whole world doesn't matter?"

"Of course not! But what can I do about it?" Rean shot back.

"Simple." Crow reached into his pocket, pulling out a pair of dice with 'C' and 'A' monogrammed on them. "You clear the board, and take another roll of the dice." He sighed, regarding the small plastic cubes for a few seconds. "In this bad future, science has advanced considerably, especially in the studies of the mind. They found a way to unlock powerful psychic abilities. My…benefactor if you will." He hesitated a little. "Managed to create a way to send a person's consciousness back into time. If you agree to this, Rean. We can change history and set it on a better course."

"Psychic powers? Time travel?" It was taking everything Rean had to wrap his brain around what Crow told him. "Can you even trust this guy, Crow?"

The Azure Awakener lightly tossed the dice up and down in the palm of his hand. "It sounds like something right out of a book, doesn't it? But yeah, it's a real thing. As for my benefactor." He caught the dice in his hand. "I trust him enough when it comes to this." Crow pointed at the door leading out of the dormitory. "You have a choice to make, Rean. You can either walk through that door, find peace with Aidios, or you can take another roll of the dice." He held them out. "And make a better future for everyone. It all comes down to you."

The young man looked from the door to the dice and back. Rean's mind raced. Thoughts of Laura, and the rest of his classmates, friends so close they became his family played against Crow's words of a bleak tomorrow. A lesser man would have caved, and simply walked away. But Rean Schwarzer was not a lesser man. He didn't need to give it any further thought, snatching the dice away. The smile and nod of affirmation were enough to steel Rean for what was to come. "So tell me, when exactly am I going to be sent? The day I left for Trista?"

"I figured you would want more time than that. Yes, that was a pun." Rean just rolled his eyes, far too used to Crow's knack for bad jokes at this point. "You'll be sent back a full year before you arrived at school. That's plenty of time for you to make some preparations. Also, I'm giving you this." Rean's eyes widened as a small black notebook with a crest in a brilliant red containing a horned lion was pushed into his hand. "Bet you never thought you'd see this again, huh? I left some ideas inside, use them as you see fit. Now enough chitchat, roll those cubes, Rean. See what future you create."

"Thanks, Crow." The room became blurry the minute Rean let the dice fly, Crow's face the last thing he saw, and the sound of the dice hitting the hard stone floor last thing he heard before everything faded to black.

City of Ymir, Schwarzer Barony, Nortia Province, March 31st, 1203 of the Septian Calendar.

Rean's eyes snapped open once again, found himself staring at a familiar ceiling. He sat up, looking around his old bedroom. "Was that all just a dream?" He mused. Until he noticed what was clenched in his hands, a pair of dice, and a student notebook belong to Thors Military Academy. He flipped the book open and found scrawled on the inside cover. "Fraid not, Rean!" in Crow's very distinctive handwriting, even including a little heart at the end.

"Oh by Aidios…" Rean groaned, only the Azure Awakener would leave him a message like that. Hand curling around the small plastic cubes with Crow's initials on them. "It wasn't a dream. It all really happened." He wasn't sure what to do.

"Rean honey?" The melodic, gentle voice brought him to his senses, and a slight knocking at the door caused him to jump out of bed on instinct. Lucia stuck her head in. It put him at ease to see his mother's calming visage. "Rean, breakfast is ready dear. I made fried eggs and bacon."

If his mom's smile was a fast way to curb Rean's anxiety, her cooking was the blow guaranteed to put it down for good. Sharon's culinary skill was near-divine, but a mother's cooking always held a special place in any child's heart. "Does that include your special pancakes?" He asked expectantly.

"What do you think?" Lucia giggled, knowing full well how much her son adored her handmade buttermilk pancakes. "Now get out of bed, young man. I can't imagine you want to eat it cold." Rean needed no further prompting. If this was indeed a fresh start. It was time to get working. Throwing on some clothes, He made his way downstairs to the dining room, where his father and sister were both waiting.

Baron Teo Schwarzer was reading the Imperial Chronicle. "Orbal Network comes back online, 3rd Armored Division recalled from Liberl/Erebonian border." The headline said. Elise was pouring herself some orange juice, and Lucia brought in a platter full of hot pancakes. For Rean, the sight of his family, together and happy, was something that made his heart feel more at ease than it had in a very long time. "Ah, so nice of you to join us, Rean." His father's gravelly voice further cementing this was actually happening. "You stayed up too late training again last night."

"Guilty as charged, Dad." The Ashen Awakener decided to just roll with things for now. The truth would come out when he felt it was right. He then looked to his baby sister. "Good morning, Elise. You look lovely as always." He grinned inwardly at the sight of Elise bowing her head as her cheeks starting to turn the same shade as her shirt, a deep pink.

"Rean!" There was just something so cute about hearing Elise's voice, but it also made his heartache for some reason he couldn't understand. She pushed a glass of orange juice to her brother to try and hide her embarrassment. Lucia just giggled and Teo gave an amused snort. "Mother, Father, please don't encourage him!" She whined, grabbing a couple of pancakes to try and hope her face resumed its normal color.

"It just shows how much I love you, Elise," Rean said, taking a sip of his juice, before helping himself to some bacon. As expected, Lucia had worked her culinary magic once again. The pancakes were light and fluffy, and the maple syrup just sealed the deal for him. "Oh Mom, you were truly blessed by Aidios herself to always give us such great meals!"

"Aw, you flatterer!" It was the Schwarzer Matriarch's turn to start blushing, albeit not as much as Elise had earlier. "I've always thought I had a fair talent for cooking, but to say I was blessed by the Goddess herself is the highest praise I could be given."

Rean gave an idle shrug, followed by a slightly sheepish grin as he scratched his temple. "What can I say? It's the truth."

Teo set down the newspaper, clearing his throat. "As much as I enjoy watching you get your mother and sister all worked up. There was something I wanted to ask you, Rean. Now that you've completed Sunday School. You have your further education to think about. Have you decided on which school you want to attend yet? I don't mean to rush you, son. But this is the time where a lot of students decide what they want to do with their lives. Whatever choice you make, know we'll all support you. We can sit down and consider some options."

Only for Rean to hold up his hand. "Actually, Dad. I made up my mind some time ago. I want to attend Thors Military Academy in Trista. That's where I want to go next spring." He took a deep breath to look to his parents in turn. "I really do think that's the best place for me to go." This seemed to please his parents. If the wide smile from Lucia and the slight nod of approval from Teo was any indication.

"That's wonderful to know son. I'm pleased to hear you've been decisive in this, given how uncertain you were the last time we talked about it."

"I gave it a lot of thought." It wasn't entirely a lie. He had given Thors a lot of consideration, and now there was no other choice he could make. Those fond memories of his time at Thors were still as vivid as ever. He would never lose them. "Dad, after breakfast is done there's something I need to talk to you about in private." Breakfast passed and the Schwarzer family enjoyed themselves as any other family would have. In the back of his mind, Rean was determined to treasure this moment.

(Teo Schwarzer's Office)

Rean pushed open the door to his father's inner sanctum. Like much of the Schwarzer household, it held a simple air about it. Teo's faithful saber hung on the wall right next to the orbal shotgun he used for hunting. The shelves held numerous volumes of books collected by the family over the years. The Baron of Ymir was at his desk, going over some paperwork. "Come on in, Rean, you said there was something you wanted to talk to me about?"

"Yes, there is." He sat down in front of his father's desk, eyebrows knitting together. "I need you to get in contact with Master Ka-Fai, and have him come to Ymir immediately. I know you have some way to contact him quickly, Dad. I want to speak with him about." He hesitated for a second, his hand going to his chest. "I want to speak with him about resuming my training, before I go to Thors." Teo's face was serious, putting his hand on his son's forearm. "I need to get this beast under control. He's the only one who can help me."

"So does this mean you've accepted it?" The older man asked. "Because you always were so afraid of the power that lurks within you. Any time either your master or I brought it up, you always became so evasive. You didn't want to acknowledge its existence." Teo's words struck a nerve in Rean, what his father said was the truth. Far too many training sessions with the Sword Hermit ended with Rean running away because facing what he did on that frigid day was too traumatic to recall.

"I know Dad. If I had my way, I would be rid of this power forever, but I don't see that happening anytime soon. The next best thing I can do is try and learn to control it." Teo felt his son's grip tighten a little. "I was too scared back then, but I'm not running anymore. So, could you contact him? It would mean a lot to me." Teo gave Rean a comforting smile and reassuring pat on the head.

"Of course, Rean. I will notify Yun straight away, and I'm certain he'll be happy to hear you're willing to go through with this again." The Ashen Awakener could breathe a little easier. His first goal had been achieved. But a long road still sat ahead of him. Already he was planning on taking his next step.

"Thanks, Dad, I may spend some time brushing up before Master Ka-Fei gets here. I know he'll put me through the wringer easy." Something else came to mind for him. "Also, Dad, do you think we could brush up on my court fencing? I think that will come in handy when I go to Thors." He definitely had something in mind with that last part.

"Then you better get out your old sword, son," Teo smirked, causing a shiver to run down Rean's spine. "Elise will be happy to have someone to spar with. I may not be on the level of the Sword Hermit, the Thunder God, or the Radiant Blademaster, but I'm a swordsman nonetheless. And I'm not going to let you slack off!" Rean offered a silent prayer to Aidios, he forgot just how strict a teacher his father could be.

(Outside Ymir Train Station, April 3rd, 1203 of the Septian Calendar)

For the past four days, Teo had exhaustively run him through a crash course in the Schwarzer variant of court fencing. It was a totally different beast from the Eight Leaves, One Blade school, but it was as just as instinctive to him. A few trips to the hot springs had been required, but there were still some aches and pains present.

He threw himself into this aspect of his skillset, forcing his father and sister to step up their own games as well. Elise had always moved with a certain poise and grace in her swordsmanship, but now she was including some hard-hitting slashes to her attacks, even incorporating a little of the Eight Leaves first form: Helix into her personal style. Seeing this had made him feel lighter, more confident in his sister's ability to defend herself.

As for Teo, the swiftness in his son's steps had left him catching his breath, and remarking he'll need to improve his footwork, which had left both of his children laughing. Nonetheless, Rean's skill in court fencing had improved considerably, enough to stand on par with some of the nobles he was acquired with, but now it was time to greet his master, and get to his real training

So it was Rean now stood outside Ymir's train station, wearing a red sweater vest and dark pants, impatiently tapping his foot. The letter from Master Ka-Fei clenched in hand. "It only took him a day to respond. Whatever he and Dad set up, it works well." He held it up to read it again.

It's so wonderful to hear from you Rean. I must say I was surprised to get your letter, but its contents fill me with joy. I'm glad to see you're wanting to resume your training. I will be quite eager to hear your reasons why. I should arrive within a few days. Until then, Master Yun Ka-Fai. The Ashen Awakener took a moment to reflect on his master. At first glance, The Sword Hermit seemed like a rather laid-back type who enjoyed lounging under a tree with a nice cup of sake, and writing poetry, bad poetry at that. Hardly a master swordsman provided he wasn't angered. Anyone stupid enough would see a flash of steel and then silence.

A pleasant-sounding chime echoed across the small hamlet. "The express from Roer has just arrived." Rean perked up, and soon he caught sight of his master. Yun Ka-Fai was just as he remembered. Despite his advanced age, his posture was straight and resolute. He was dressed simply, a tan tunic with a white undershirt, a blue sash tied at the waist, with a dark knee-length hakama. Bandages adorned his shins and forearms. His long gray hair was tied up.

Master and apprentice caught sight of each other. Yun just gave a half-smile. Rean returned the smile, bowing at the waist as Yun came up to him. "Welcome back to Ymir, Master Ka-Fai." He already felt relaxed in the presence of the old sage. "Thank you for showing up on such short notice. I know it must not have been easy to get from wherever you were."

"Oh please, it's not a bother at all, my boy." The older man responded with a deep, gravelly tone, putting a hand on Rean's shoulder. "In truth, I've been waiting for this day for quite some time." He reached into the pouch at his hip, holding up a familiar sheet of paper. "So you really wish to resume your training then, Rean? This isn't you just being impulsive?"

Rean shook his head. "No, Master. I really do mean it this time. A lot has happened since we last met. I'm not sure you'd believe some of the things I have to tell you. Let's go into the house and I'll give you the whole story. I had Mom prepare some tea and snacks for us."

"Ah, I haven't had Lucia's tea in such a long time." The two entered the house, the pleasant odor of green tea with mint and lemon permeated the air. Elise was waiting in the front hall, giving a beaming smile to the Sword Hermit, also offering a slight curtsy. "Ah, is that little Elise? Oh, I still remember when I sat you on my knee. My my, you have grown into a striking young lady. I bet the boys are going to be fighting tooth and nail when you make your debut."

"Not if I have anything to say about it," Rean muttered under his breath, earning him a very annoyed glare from Elise.

A deep, throaty chuckle came from the Sword Hermit. "Now now, my student. You can't protect your little sister forever. Someday you'll have to acknowledge some young man as your brother-in-law. Who knows? You may even grow to like him." Yun ignored the death glare Rean gave him. "Perhaps you can show us to the dining room, Elise? I'm sure we don't want to keep your parents waiting." With no further words, Elise bowed again, and led them into the dining room.

"Hello there, Teo, Lucia." Yun smiled at the pitcher of green tea and a plate full of manju candies on the table. "I see you were prepared for me." He took a seat at the head of the table.

"I always make it a point to have your favorite sweets ready when you come to visit, Master Ka-Fai. Nothing less would suffice for you, given what you've done for my son." Rean just smiled a little at the sideways glance his mother gave him as he sat down at the table with Elise. Lucia poured everyone a cup of tea, the telltale scent of mint wafted through the air. Yun took a sip and let out a refreshed sigh.

Rean cleared his throat. The time had finally come to put the first step of his plan into action. "Let's get down to business. As I said in my letter Master Ka-Fai, I seek to resume my training under you." He looks to his father. "I've done some soul searching over the past few days, and decided I can't keep running from the beast inside me. If I can't be free of it, then I will do everything I can to seize control of it so I can face my future. The only person who can help me with this great challenge is you, Master."

The wizened old sage took in his student. The young man in front of him he knew as well as his own family, and could read him as such. Of his three direct apprentices, Rean always had the greatest growth potential, however, he was always hampered by his mental issues. He had seen it in the boy's eyes too many times to count, but where there was once anxiety, now sat a new resolve. Yun just nodded "You should already know my response, Rean. One day I knew you would call on me. I will do whatever I can to help you subdue the vicious ogre inside you, and I know your parents and sister will offer all the support they can as well."

"Oh trust me, they already have." The smiles from his parents and sister made Rean's courage and hope grow evermore. "There is one more thing I ask of you Master Ka-Fai. I don't want to just train here in Ymir. I'm hoping that we can take a little tour of the empire while we practice, a little change of scenery is never a bad thing, is it?"

"Not a bit at all," Yun replied. "I have no problem with a training journey, provided your parents approve as well?" He looked to Teo and Lucia.

"As long as you write us regularly, then I don't object," Lucia said.

"Neither do I," Teo added. "It will do you some good to get out and see the world a little bit. It will help you to grow as a man."

"I feel the exact same way," Rean said. "I may even make a few new friends along the way." One face, in particular, came to mind, he was going to be sure to grow especially close to Laura. A part of him wondered what she was doing at that moment.

(Same Time, Eastern Erebonian Empire, Kreuzen Province, Viscounty of Legram)

A figure, seemingly male, stood obscured by darkness. A strange, curved blade in hand. There was little one could do to make out who he was. The curved sword came up to the warrior's face, A fire of the purest blue enveloping the entire length of the blade. "Azure Flames, gather around my blade!" a strong, commanding voice uttered.

Eight small leaves danced in the wind. The figure moved faster than one could blink, the flames trailing behind him. A series of blazing swings followed, and all eight leaves were slashed cleanly in half. The fiery sword came up, and finally, the swordsman's face was revealed, a young man with ashen hair and red eyes.

Laura S. Arseid's eyes came open as she sat on the dock overlooking Lake Ebel. For the past four days, the daughter of the Radiant Blademaster had been plagued by this dream. It had made no sense to her at all. Who was this young man with ashen hair that had managed to permeate every corner of her mind so much? There was a sense of familiarity as well, she just couldn't put her finger on it.

So Laura decided to clear her mind in the best way she knew how, with a relaxing swim. It was a bit cool but for her it was negligible. She wore her bathing suit, a one-piece racerback in dark blue with white stripes running up the sides. Standing up and stretching out, Laura raised her arms over her head. Taking a big breath, she dove into the water.

Her entry was flawless. Laura kicked upwards, breaking the surface with a gasp. Her ponytail idly drifted behind her in the water. Rolling onto her back, she started an easy backstroke, looking up at the crystal blue sky, obscured by the fog her hometown was best known for. Laura sighed, floating in the water. "Whoever you are I hope you are a friend." She smiled, "I should ask Father about the Eight Leaves. He knows Master Ka-Fai after all."

(April 9th, 1203 of the Septian Calendar, Ymir Highway, Kreuzen Province)

"Ah, is there nothing better than to feel the wind in your face and the road beneath your feet?" Yun quipped as he trotted a brisk pace, his walking stick clacking against the rough asphalt of the road at certain intervals. "We wouldn't be able to enjoy this if we took the train now, would we, Rean?"

"Yes sir!" Rean huffed from behind, the weight of the heavy backpack pulling against him. "Of course Master Ka-Fai wouldn't want us to take the train. He wants to get the most out of our journey! Even if it means my legs fall off!" He muttered under his breath. Rean's reintroduction to his master's training methods had been rough.

They had been on the road for the better part of a week now, and making their way toward Roer. It had been a relatively pleasant walk. The roads were practically barren, given how the railways had pretty much become the primary method of travel in the Empire. Of course for master and student that needn't be a bad thing. It meant they could train in relative peace, and no one would get hurt during their…rather explosive training sessions.

The spring breeze brought a slight comfort to the Ashen Awakener. It made Rean think of when he strolled into Trista on that first day, the lino flowers in bloom. His thoughts then drifted to Class VII, the second family he never knew he needed. Led by their instructor, Sara Valenstein, Alisa Reinford, Jusis Albarea, Fie Claussell, Gaius Worzell, Eliot Craig, Emma Millstein, Machias Regnitz, Millium Orion, Crow Armbrust, and lastly, Laura S. Arseid, his beloved. Each of them had given him something he didn't know he needed, and filled in holes that he didn't know existed.

"Ah, this will do nicely." Rean was shaken from his reverie by his master's voice. Yun set his sizable rucksack down. "We'll camp here for the night, Rean. I believe there's a nice fishing spot not too far from here. We can have some lunch and then, I'll give you a quick evaluation. I need to see where your current skill level is at." He pulled out his weapon, a weathered, but well cared for katana in a black sheath, decorated with eight white outlines of leaves and the handle wrapped in gray twine, setting it on his hip before drawing it. "I doubt I need to reintroduce you to Kurohachi Konoha now, do I?"

In fact, Rean did not. Kurohachi Konoha was as familiar to him as his treasured blade. He remembered the day Master Ka-Fai gave him his tachi. "It's like no time has passed at all." He brought out his own sword. "All right, master. I'm ready to show you what I've learned since we parted ways." Master and student rushed each other. "Second Form: Gale!" He rushed forward faster than most people could blink, slashing his blade upward. Only for Kurohachi Konoha to catch it,

"Sixth Form: Scarlet Arc!" The Sword Hermit's voice boomed. A crescent-shaped blade of fire rushed toward Rean, but the Ashen Awakener held his ground, slamming his blade back into the sheath.

"First Form: Helix Strike!" Rean bellowed, the rotary spin sent his master's attack skyward. He leapt into the air, tachi overhead, fire consuming the entire length of his sword. "Here's a Flame Dragon Impact for your trouble, Master!" He swung downwards and a spectral, flaming dragon reared up, letting out a massive roar as it rushed at Yun. The aged master wasn't phased, in truth, he was impressed and even proud of his student.

"Fourth Form: Autumn Leaf Breeze!" Kurohachi Konoha created a powerful gust of wind that dispelled the flames easily. Rean's chest heaved, as he collapsed to one knee. The master of the Eight Leaves wasn't even phased. "Very nicely done, Rean." Yun tapped his blade against his shoulder. "Your skill has grown considerably. I'm glad to see you've kept up your training, but I think you have had enough for one day."

"Wait, master!" Yun's eyebrow arched upward, as Rean stood up, his silvery-gray eyes blazing. "I haven't shown you my greatest technique." His hair lightened just for a fraction of a second. His hands tightening on his blade. "My blade will cleave ignorance and light the way!" He let out a wordlessly cry as the brilliant flames appeared once again around his sword. He rushed toward his master, flaming swings coming at every angle, kicking up a huge cloud of dust. "Seventh Form: Void! Termination Slash-Dawn!" Rean's voice echoed across the hills.

As the sound and dirt in the air dissipated. Any spectators would have seen an exhausted and battered Ashen Awakener, Rean struggled to keep on his feet as he looked at his master. He could only smirk in resignation. Aside from a little dirt on his clothes, and being slightly winded. Yun Ka-Fai was unaffected by one of his student's most powerful moves. "How…was that?" Rean rasped about ready to collapse, only to be caught by his master. Who gave him a slight pat on the back and a look of great pride.

"Nothing short of perfection, my student. I must say, you really caught me off guard with that last move, Rean. I wasn't expecting you to pull out something Void-related, even Cassius had problems learning the Seventh Form and you haven't even learned the basic tenets of it yet." Yun gently set the young man down. "It appears we have quite a bit to talk about, like the real reason for this journey. The one you didn't want your parents and sister to know about?"

Rean just gave a wan smile and an exhausted nod. "Would you believe me if I said it involved my death and time travel?"

"Oh, by all means, do tell!" An unfamiliar voice cut through. A swirling circle of light materialized on the ground. Rean's eyebrows shot upwards. He knew exactly what this was, but he was puzzled by who could be conjuring it since it was neither the deep royal purple nor even the elegant azure he was expecting, but rather a deep, crimson red, the same as freshly shed blood. Two figures materialized, making Rean's heart nearly stop. The first was a young girl his age with long violet hair tied in a thick braid, wearing glasses, and a purple, long-sleeved dress with a billowing skirt and black tights.

The second person gave him pause. A tall woman with very defined curves, and blonde hair that reached all the way down to her ankles. She wore a white shirt with detached sleeves, held in place by a red laced corset, a long red skirt consisting of several layers, and brown knee-high leather boots with visible laces. Clenched in hand was a long staff that had a crystal pulsing with red light. Despite the fire in her eyes, there was no warmth in her smile. "Do tell, Rean Schwarzer, tell me exactly what happened, and what was so important that time had to reverse?"

"It is you, Rosie!" Yun exclaimed. "Well, it's been a while hasn't it? I see you haven't lost any of your killer good looks, either."

"Oh don't flatter me right now, Yun." The woman was not impressed, her gaze not leaving Rean once. "Your student has much to answer for!"

"Grandma please!" The bespectacled girl protested. Her own very ample chest bounced as she stepped forward, trying to restore a semblance of order. "Can you at least try and explain to me what's going on for once?" She turned to face Rean and Yun, bowing deeply. "I'm terribly sorry for my grandmother's behavior. She's been like this for the past few weeks, and I don't know what her problem is." The girl was stopped by Rean suddenly embracing her. "W-what are you doing?" She blushed intensely, but then she noticed how he was crying. Her surprise turned to concern. "Are you okay?"

"Never better!" Rean said through happy tears. "Hello there, Emma. You saved me a lot of trouble by coming to me." He looked to the older woman. "I'm guessing this is your grandmother?"

Emma Millstein just looked at Rean confusedly "Uh, yes. Do we know each other?"

Rean just grunted, wiping his tears away. "How about we all sit down? I think this is going to take a while."

Author's Notes: Thus my first foray into the realm of Heroes begins. I never expected to become a fan of Trails of Cold Steel, but I did. Thank you for that, Centurious. It became one of my favorite series and it's really not hard to see why. The lore, the story, the characters are relatable. I could go on. Why the time travel angle? Because I always liked time travel stories so I figure it gives it a unique spin all its own. Guess you could say Rean's playing on New Game+ mode now, although it won't be so cut and dried. So I hope those who read it, enjoy it.

Chapter Text

hapter 2: Dealing Out the Hand
Disclaimer: See Chapter 1

Another Roll Of The Dice

by Storm Wolf77415 and Centurious the Azure

Dealing Out the Hand

Eryn Village, Sutherland Province, March 31st, 1203 of the Septian Calendar

For Emma Millstein, it was a fairly normal day. She looked up at the massive pile of books on her desk. "If I didn't like books as much as I do, I'd be sorely tempted to burn them all." She really didn't mean it. There was no better way to pass the time than with a good book and a warm cup of tea. Needless to say, with how involved her magic studies were, it seemed daunting. But Emma was the diligent type. For her, this was a challenge she relished going through.

Her loyal familiar, Celine was curled up on her bed. It was all too easy for her to lose track of time when she was immersed in her studies like this. Emma's concentration was broken by a weird sensation coursing through her body. There was a piercing yowl as Celine suddenly woke up. "What in the great blaze was that?" The cat cried, her tail thrashing about.

A shrill cry from downstairs. One both witch and familiar recognized all too well. "Grandmother!" Emma cried, running down the steps as fast as she could to Roselia's workshop, Celine following behind. Emma's heart wrenched when she saw smoke pouring through the cracks in the heavy elm doors.

"What did she get herself into this time?" Celine asked, grimacing at the harsh odor from the smoke.

"Hold on Grandmother!" Emma threw open the doors, waving away the smoke coming into her face. "Grandmother, are you okay?" She took a few steps in, trying to see something, anything.

"I'm fine, Emma." The voice brought the younger witch to a halt. "In fact, I've never been better." It was much deeper, with a husky tone that made the younger witch think of a finely aged velvet. As the smoke dissipated, Emma gasped. There stood Roselia Millstein, better known in history as Red Moon Rose, the elder of the Hexen Clan, but not in her usual childlike form, but as a full-statured adult, complete with trim hips and a bust that could put Emma to shame.

Her eyes widened in shock. "Grandmother, what happened to you? Why are you in your adult form? Did one of your experiments backfire or something?"

Rose's hands came up to her chest. Smiling just a little bit. It was nice to see the girls again! "Truthfully, dear. I'm not sure myself. Not that I'm complaining about the outcome of it." But then her face became deathly serious, a sharp gleam ran through her crimson eyes. "That being said. Something in the Septium veins has shifted." A long elaborate staff with a crystal exuding a brilliant red glow formed in her hands. "I must work out the source of this disturbance."

"Do you need our help for this, Grandmother?" Emma asked, blinking slowly in disbelief. Still not quite believing what she was seeing, or hearing.

The blonde elder just gave a half-smile, an elegant shake of her head as her thick blonde mane waved behind her. "Not at this time, but if I do later. You'll be the first I'll call. Go upstairs and resume your studies, dear." Placated for the moment, Emma and Celine went back upstairs. She spared one last worried glance before she vanished. Rose sighed, so much to do, so little time, she gazed into the light emanated by her staff, working out what just had happened, zeroing in on the source of it all.

(Three Days Later)

Rose hadn't come out of her workshop and Emma was starting to get quite worried. She knew no one was more adept at magic than her grandmother. Yet the way she had buried herself in her work was making her wonder if Rose had eaten anything. She was secretly relieved when the doors to the workshop banged open, and out swept her grandmother. Although she was troubled to see how furious the elder witch looked. "Are you okay, Grandmother?" She asked nervously, feeling the raw mana wafting off her.

"Oh, I'm just fine." Emma knew that was a blatant lie, but she didn't dare challenge it. Even Celine hunched down a little bit. "Pack your bags, Emma. We're going to pay an old friend of mine a visit. There's been a major shift in the septium veins, and I finally found the source of all the distortions. It appears that he, or rather his student, is at the center of it." She folded her arms in irritation. "I don't know how he did it, but he will hear it from me! Celine, I'll leave things in your care for the moment."

And this is what led to Emma and Rose's little sit down with Master Ka-Fai and Rean on the side of the road. "So tell me how exactly this whole thing happened. By all means, leave no detail out." Rose folded her arms with a pointed glare at Rean, but the younger man didn't back down. The elder witch was surprised to feel a slight flare of energy from the Ashen Awakener. "I see you've taught him well, Yun. He's learned to control his energy quite well. I can only imagine he's quite keen with the blade."

The Sword Hermit puffed out of his chest. "But of course, Rosie! Young Rean here is one of my best students." He patted him on the shoulder. "The most potential for growth I've ever seen in someone his age. Give him a few more years, he'll definitely be a Divine Blade, just like Cassius and Arios." Rean didn't miss the look of pride his master gave him. "I believe it with all my heart." Emma smiled at the gesture.

"Thank you, Master," Rean said, locking eyes with Rose. "If you must know, Elder Rose. I wasn't the one who thought this idea up. A friend of mine convinced me after I…died in North Ambria." He thought of Crow for a minute. Emma's eyes widened and she gasped in horror, and some of Rose's anger dissipated. "He said that I wasn't supposed to die there, and that a bad future resulted from it." He reached into his pocket and pulled out the dice that had become so important to him. "He said that I had a chance to roll the dice, start again. If I had the means to reunite with my classmates, your granddaughter included." He clenched his fist around the cubes. "I didn't need to think very hard about it."

"You'll forgive me if I'm a little skeptical. Such a thing couldn't be possible without something like a Sept-terrion fueling it." Rose stated, gently probing the surface of Rean's mind, looking for any hint of deception, but there was none, just the firm resolve of someone who believed he was right. "On the other hand, thanks to this reversal, I regained a considerable amount of my power, not to mention locking me in my adult form." She noted her ample curves. "So I'll admit there must be a degree of truth to what you're saying."

"Thank you for not dismissing me outright," Rean said, looking to his master, idly drinking some sake. "What about you? Think I'm crazy, Master?"

The Sword Hermit just scoffed. "I've known you long enough, Rean. You were never the type to make up outlandish tales." He hiccuped. The warmth from the drink began manifesting on his cheeks. "Of course having a few drinks might help convince me a little bit more. Now you said this training journey was to help you better control your ogre power, perhaps that wasn't the only reason for this sojourn?"

"Yes." He confirmed with a nod of conviction, the fire behind Rean's eyes confirmed his words as truth to all present. "I also thought this could be a way for me to connect with the other members of Class VII." Rean looked to Emma, and the young witch looked into the eyes of the Ashen Awakener. There was strength but also a deep, underlying sadness.

"Make no mistakes, Teo and Lucia Schwarzer are the only people I could ever call my parents. I would be hard-pressed to find a more loving, caring sister than Elise Schwarzer. But I always felt out of place, like I couldn't show my full, true self. And then in the spring of 1204, next year, I attended Thors Military Academy, and I met eleven people who became just as much as family, Emma included. All of them filled in holes I never realized I had. Class VII was truly the best thing that ever happened to me."

"Me?" Emma asked, on the brink of tears. "I was a part of Class VII too?"

Rean handed her a handkerchief so she could wipe her face. "That's right, you and Celine as well. Smartest girl in the school. Always top marks on every test. Not to mention there's no end to your compassion. You helped tutor one of our other classmates, a girl named Fie Claussell, so she wouldn't flunk out."

He sighed fondly, a broad smile coming onto his face. "I miss all of them so much. I know all of them, but they're all strangers to me and each other. I'm not the master gambler Crow was, but this is one bet I'm willing to take. Our instructor said I was the heart of the class, the one who bound us all together. It's about time I started doing just that."

"I think I've heard enough." Rose stood up, crossing her arms beneath her ample chest. "It sounds like this Class VII will become major players down the line, and to think that my granddaughter would become part of it." She looked over to Emma, who was still reeling from being told what her future held. She put a gentle hand on the younger witch's shoulder. "It's a lot to take in, but I know you're up to the task. I think it would be best if you traveled with Master Ka-Fai and Rean for the duration of their journey. You could stand to see the world beyond Eryn."

"What about Celine?" Emma asked.

"I will let her know what's going on. Besides I'll need her help with a little project." Rose looked to Master Ka-Fai. "I trust you will look after her for me, Yun?"

The Sword Hermit gave a sweeping bow to the Hexen Clan Elder. "I will look after her like she was my child, Rosie. You have my word that no harm will come to a single hair on her head." He delicately kissed her hand.

Rose let out an elegant laugh before summoning up her staff, gleaming with blood-red light. "You could always be quite the charmer when it suited you, Yun. Although I hope your student doesn't emulate some of your more disreputable habits." She sent a pointed look at Rean, before directing her attention to her granddaughter. "Emma, take care of yourself, honey. Keep me informed of your travels. I love you as always." She raised her staff to the sky and the familiar red glyph-filled circle appeared beneath her, as Crimson Roselia returned to Eryn Village.

"She always did have to make a big exit." Emma let out a long-suffering sigh, knowing someone else would be even more theatrical! "Even if Grandmother has been acting more serious than I ever saw her. She really can be so childish at times! But that's beside the point now." She looked to Rean, who seemed overjoyed to have her on this journey. Perhaps this wouldn't be such a bad thing after all. "Our classmates, did we really become so close to each other?"

Rean affirmed with a further widening grin. "Oh yeah! We became like a second family. Admittedly, we walked a rough path at times, and there were major disagreements between a few of our ranks. But we always pulled through in the end. I wouldn't trade them in for anything else." He held out his hand to Emma. "I'm glad to have you on this trip, Emma. We can meet them all together." The violet-haired witch looked to the Ashen Awakener, before ultimately taking it. With that, the first bonds of Class VII were sealed.

Emma finally let herself relax, her stiff shoulders loosening up. She'd felt as tense as a sprung beartrap until now. "I'm glad to call you a friend then, Rean. So if we're going on this grand tour of the Empire to meet our future classmates, let me ask three big questions of you. Who exactly are these people we are meeting? Where are they currently located? and What are you going to tell them?"

"As far as the first two questions go, I can tell you who they are and I have a pretty good idea of where most of them are located. They represent a cross-section of the best and brightest across the entire Empire. Nobles and commoners were in the same class together, which was unheard of before us. I'll start with Sara Valenstein, our instructor. Now if you saw her teach, you'd wonder how she got the job in the first place. Instructor Sara wasn't always the most diligent of teachers, in fact, more likely she'd shove her duties onto someone else…namely me." Rean muttered. "But she's an A-ranked Bracer known as the Purple Lightning. So she's anything but weak. At this time she is most likely in the town of Trista at Thors itself, teaching the class that was our precursor."

"As for our fellow students, first is Eliot Craig, he was one of the first real friends I made at Thors. He's actually the son of General Olaf Craig, commander of the Fourth Armored Division. He's a little on the shy side, but has a sharp hand with an orbal staff. Not to mention he's a very gifted musician. Next, we have Machias Regnitz, the son of the Imperial Governor. Smartest guy in our class, usually tied in grades with you. Does not like anything that does with the nobility, but he gets better. An orbal shotgun is his weapon of choice. Really good at chess. Both of them hail from Heimdallr, that's where we can find them."

"After that, we have Alisa Reinford, yeah those Reinfords. Joined the Lacrosse Team at Thors, a dead shot with an orbal bow, and should you ever make her mad. I will pray for your mortal soul. She's got a temper. Alisa will be in Roer. Then we have Jusis Albarea, our resident scion of the Four Great Noble Houses. He takes great pride in his blue blood status, and may come off as rather cold and uncaring, but it couldn't be further from the truth. He firmly believes in noblesse oblige, always one to pay off his debts. Practices Albarea style court fencing, and is an adept equestrian. He is most likely at the family estate in Bareahard, can't imagine Jusis is enjoying it very much."

"Gaius Worzel was the second friend I made at Thors. He is actually a transfer student from the Nord Highlands, so he's probably riding out on the plains right now." Rean didn't hide the jealousy in his voice. "Another thing I should note. Our class goes on field studies, and we were lucky enough to go there. It was so expansive and just plain beautiful." She recalled those fond memories, of riding across those verdant savannas. "The spear is his weapon of choice, just like the Nord warriors of old. On top of that, he's an avid painter, quite adept with a brush."

Rean steadied himself, images of a blue-haired beauty smiling warmly flashed through his mind. "Next up is one that's kind of important to me. Laura S. Arseid, the daughter of Victor S. Arseid, the Viscount of Legram. If there was anyone who broke the stereotype of nobles being arrogant, selfish bastards then she would shatter it into a million pieces. Laura is one of the nicest, kindest people you can find. She has a very strong sense of honor and duty, not unlike Jusis. She wields a giant claymore with great ease, regarded as the strongest of the first-year students. Not to mention she was instrumental in helping me overcome my insecurities." Rean got a little nervous when he mentioned that.

"Ha ha! So you got sweet on Victor's daughter?" Yun crowed. He started mock crying, much to his student's embarrassment. "Ah, Rean I'm so proud of you! My student has grown into a man!" He hugged Rean, causing Emma to start giggling. "I must say you have very good taste in women. I've known Viscount Arseid for a very long time and had the pleasure of knowing young Laura, the living image of her mother. I can only imagine how stunning she's become in the last few years, I have no doubt Victor would agree to a union between you two."

"Master, please! We haven't even met yet!" Rean protested, raising his hands in defense. "I won't deny that I have feelings for Laura, but I would want to do it properly. Get some time to know her first before we make any big decisions?"

The Sword Hermit snickered again, knocking back some of his sake. His master was beginning to look entirely red in the face. There was no drunken sway, though. He was far from a lightweight. "But of course! I'm glad you're being so mature about this, Rean. That being said I'll be quite eager to see your interactions with her when we get to Legram. Not to mention how Victor will react."

Emma cleared her throat, hoping her cheeks weren't still flushed. Their redness was very much visible to all present. No one dared comment, though. Simply because it was too easy to fluster her. "Perhaps we can get back on track? You haven't mentioned the last of our classmates."

"Thank you, Emma." Rean was never so happy for someone to change the subject. "The final three members of Class VII are Fie Claussell, Millium Orion, and Crow Armbrust. Fie is a very special case because she's a former jaeger, who belonged to Zephyr. She's known as Slyphid because of just how fast on her feet she is. Twin gun swords are her weapon of choice, and she actually joined the Gardening Club, also really likes taking naps wherever she can. Not to mention she's a first-rate troll. I have no idea of her current whereabouts. I have to imagine she's still with Zephyr at this point and since they're probably always on the move, tracking them down is going to be difficult."

"Millium and Crow joined us later in the year. Now Millium's circumstances are just plain unique. She actually works for the Imperial Intelligence Division, partnered with a strange device called Airgetlam that follows her every command. I still don't know the whole story about her, and no idea where she is either. But I'm just willing to bet she'll pop up when we least expect it. I know that much. And then there's Crow." Rean wasn't sure where to start with that particular can of worms, before just deciding to go for it.

"Right now Crow should be attending classes at Thors because he was part of the precursor class I mentioned earlier. I say should because he was always cutting classes to go to the horse races, the man's a compulsive gambler. Not to say he didn't have a certain roguish charm, but when it comes to Crow there's a whole story behind it that I really don't want to discuss at this time. It's not that I don't want to tell you, Emma. It's just I don't want to have to repeat myself. Part of my plan is once I've made contact with everyone, and we all meet up at Thors. I'll spill the beans then. But that's still eleven months away. Can you wait that long?"

"I suppose I can." Emma was patient enough, especially when there was already enough on her plate as is. "So what about my last question. What exactly are you going to tell our future classmates? I can't imagine you're going to lead with the whole 'I'm a time traveler from the future' bit."

Rean shook his head slowly. "Oh no. They'd throw me in a padded room faster than you could say Aidios. I'm thinking at this point, my best bet is to just befriend them and maybe drop a couple of hints along the way. I figured the easiest ones to win over would be Laura, Gaius, and you, Emma. Laura's family has strong connections to the ancient past, I'm sure she's heard plenty of stories. The Nords are a very spiritual people, they'd read it as a great change in the wind, and you." He paused for a minute. "Well, that goes without saying."

"Indeed, your trip through time affected every witch in the village. And Grandmother most of all." Emma said.

"The others will take a bit more work. Eliot will probably think it's a little weird, but he's the type who mostly just goes with the flow and accepts it." Rean then smirked. "Fie will probably just say 'neat', shrug, and wander off to find a place to take a nap. So I'm not too worried about her. Alisa, Jusis, and Machias are going to be the hard sells. Alisa's from a family of engineers, she won't believe it unless there's some hard proof, Jusis is just a rational person by nature, and Machias, well that's a whole beast in itself."

Emma looked at him questioningly with a tilt of her head. "Recall what I said about Machias having a massive hatred for the nobility? The minute I tell him who my parents are, he won't want anything to do with me. There is one card I can play, but I'm very hesitant to do it." Emma was about to open her mouth but stopped seeing how uncomfortable Rean looked.

"It sounds like we have quite a little bit of legwork to do." Master Ka-Fai frowned in thought, idly sipping his sake. "So where do we start finding your classmates then? Or maybe we should just go straight to Legram so you can see Laura?" The irritated glare from his student was all the proof the Sword Hermit needed. "Well, I suppose it won't be so bad to see Victor again. You can get plenty of experience sparring his other apprentices."

"That's my thought, of course, to get to Legram, we'll have to pass through Roer, so maybe we can peek in on Alisa. But then we head straight there." Rean said, silently wondering if perhaps a couple of other familiar faces would be present.

Viscounty of Legram, Kreuzen Province, April 11th, 1203

The early morning sun reflected off the lake, which is also where Laura was practicing on the dock, dressed in a tank top and tight shorts that revealed a pair of pale, but very fit and toned legs. She swung Brynhildr in a series of elegant motions that belied the size of the blue and silver greatsword. Her ponytail jumped about as the daughter of the Radiant Blademaster engaged in a dance of graceful strength. Laura flipped in the air, "Earth Cleaver!" She cried, sending a wave of energy flying across the water.

She then spun around with precision that would put the best prima ballerinas to tears as she unleashed a Radiant Spin, sending a gust of wind in all directions. While Laura was truly a gifted swimmer, this was her true element. All thoughts were focused on keeping her technique and footwork in perfect synchronization. A series of lightning-fast slashes followed. She did a back flip, landing in a crouch position, the rising sun catching the shining edge of Brynhildr.

"Bravo!" Laura turned and smiled at the sight of the Arseid family butler, Klaus, standing on the steps with a towel over his arm and a tray with a pitcher of water and a glass in hand. "Magnificent as always Lady Laura." He handed her the towel so she could wipe the sweat off her face. "Your skill improves by the day. I'm sure your father is very proud of your progress over the last few months." He poured some water, handing it to his young mistress.

"I know he is," Laura said, relishing the taste of the cool liquid. "But he is still far ahead of me, skill-wise." She looked out over the lake, watching the slight waves of the otherwise placid service of the water. "There are times I wonder if I'll ever catch up to him."

Klaus patted his charge on the back with great affection, offering her a placating smile. "Now now, don't get discouraged, my lady. You're still in the very flower of your youth. Don't feel you have to rush to catch up to His Lordship. There is plenty of time for you to do so. Remember the journey is half the fun." The old butler gave Laura a knowing eye. He wasn't wrong, Klaus had been the Arseid family retainer since Victor had been a young man, and was much like a doting uncle to Laura. "Besides, your life can't be all training, otherwise you wouldn't have time to greet Lady Phoebe."

Her eyes widened with the light of remembrance. "That's right, she was coming to visit us for the month!" Laura raced back to the house to clean up. An hour later, Laura was at the train station, wearing a white long-sleeved blouse and a two-tone dark blue skirt with brown leather boots. She nervously paced about in front, tapping her foot every few seconds, while looking at the clock.

"Something got you worked up, Laura?" A young man walked up. He wore a long green coat, dark pants, and a brown shirt. There was a relaxed swagger in his gait. His brown hair screamed for a comb, and his jade green eyes radiated a mischievous air. "I've never seen you look so distressed before. Is something wrong?"

"Hello there, Ezra," Laura said to her old friend, Ezra Kanitz, as he gave a jaunty salute. "Nothing is wrong, per se. I'm just a little upset because I nearly forgot my cousin is coming to visit us."

"Phoebe's coming to visit?" Ezra became excited. "Oh, it's been ages since I've seen her! You don't mind if I wait with you then?" He took a seat on the bench, stretching his legs out. "So how's Master Victor doing?" He averted his eyes slightly "I trust he's still as strong as ever?"

"Of course he is," Laura said warmly, taking a seat next to him, resting her chin in his hands, and giving him a caring smile. "You know you're always welcome to come and see him, Ezra. Father has been a little worried about you. I know the past year has been difficult, given what happened to your aunt, but everyone at the school is there for you. I'm sure I don't need to say that. You know Father and Klaus would love for you to come back. I know I would."

"You're right. I do miss sparring with you and Master Klaus. I certainly miss seeing your father in action. I miss everyone at the training hall. It's just I haven't felt the desire to pick up the blade ever since Aunt Wakana went missing." He idly flexed his fingers, looking into the distance longingly. He paused for a long moment of thought, "There's just no drive there at all." Laura put a hand on his wrist. They sat in silence when the announcement came over the loudspeakers. Attention, the express from Bareahard has just arrived. Ezra and Laura stood up and went inside.

Out of the train stepped a young woman wearing a dark blue one-piece dress under a white cardigan sweater. Her hair, the same shade of blue as Laura's, tied up in an elaborate plait, pulling a brown wheeled suitcase behind her. "Over here, Phoebe!" The girl's dazzling smile stretched across her entire face at the sound of her cousin, growing ever more when she saw Ezra standing next to Laura.

Phoebe S. Arseid quickly walked up to the other two teenagers, giving Laura a warm embrace. "Hello there, cousin. I'm so glad to be back here in Legram. It's nice to just be away from St. Astraia and the hustle and bustle of the city for a couple of weeks." She gave Ezra a chaste kiss on the cheek, a look of great warmth flashing in her pale blue eyes. Ezra lit up with a goofy grin in response, rubbing his chin with a great blush coming on his face. "Same to you Ezra. I'm happy to see you as well."

"Likewise, it's been a few years since you've come around these parts," Ezra recalled days long past, how the three of them would spend their time swimming in Lake Ebel, playing hide and seek and the woods, and how Phoebe would watch as Laura and Ezra would spar each other under the watchful eye of Klaus and Victor themselves. "It's always a good day when you decide to come back."

"My family may live in Heimdallr, but Legram will always be home to me." Phoebe patted Ezra on the shoulder, she gave a look of concern to her long-time friend. "I heard about Miss Wakana, I'm so sorry. It's just so strange that she would vanish like that." Wakana Sumeragi was Ezra's aunt, serving as an advisor to Viscount Arseid, alongside her older sister, and Ezra's mother, Yesenia Kanitz. Geralt Kanitz, Ezra's father, worked as a Bracer out of the local town office.

"You don't have to tell me twice." Ezra sighed, recalling the woman's face, her dark pink hair, framing those brilliant red eyes with such warmth and love. "I mean, Aunt Wakana always seemed like she was on a pretty even keel. There wasn't any indication she was depressed or anything." He shook his head, even now at this time it still baffled him. He peered out into the distance wistfully. "I just miss her so much." But he grinned at Phoebe despite the ache in his heart. "However, let's not color the mood. You're here and that does make things a lot better."

"Then let's head up to the house. I'm so eager to see Uncle Victor." Phoebe said, nodding eagerly. With Ezra grabbing the suitcase, the trio walked down the cobblestone streets and up the stairs toward Arseid Manor, standing atop the hill and looking out on the town. Despite its simple appearance, it was still grand enough befitting nobility, twin royal blue banners with Legram's crest hung on either side of the door.

"Nothing has changed," Phoebe remarked fondly as they entered. Klaus stood in the foyer and the girl was quick to embrace the aging retainer, who looked just as overjoyed to see the young woman. "And you haven't either! Hello Klaus!"

"Welcome back to Legram, Lady Phoebe." Klaus rumbled, giving her a light pat on the back. "And it's so good to see you as well, Master Ezra." The younger man nodded slightly. "The master is in his study, he will see you now." Ezra would have bowed out at this point, but since Phoebe was holding onto his wrist and pulling him up the stairs, he had no choice.

Victor S. Arseid's study was a reflection of himself. Simple yet opulent. The wall paneling and the desk he sat behind were made of hardy mahogany from Liberl. The bookshelves were lined with all matter of literature. A rug woven in Parm decorated with the seal of Legram itself on the floor. And then there was the man himself. Victor S. Arseid, Viscount of Legram, age 42 sat at his desk, overlooking some paperwork. His dark blue was cut conservatively, his small beard neatly trimmed.

Ezra couldn't help but feel the energy radiate off the man who had taught him the path of the blade. The aura of strength the Radiant Blademaster emanated was palpable to all three of them. The older man gave a warm smile as he stood up as he went up to embrace Phoebe. Which Phoebe returned without hesitation. "Hello there, child. Welcome back to Legram." Even his voice radiated authority but it was tempered by warm-hearted compassion. "And Ezra, it's always a pleasure to see you here."

"Hello, Master. I'm glad to see you as well." Ezra bowed slightly. Aside from his own father, there was no one else he respected more than Victor Arseid. "I saw Laura at the train station, she told me Phoebe was coming to visit so I figured I'd pay my respects." He took her hand, kissing it. Eliciting a giggle from her. "Perhaps we can catch up over dinner. In the meantime, I wouldn't want to disrupt your bonding time." He was about to leave when Victor put a hand on his shoulder.

"I know your passion for the blade has dimmed since your aunt's disappearance, but perhaps you'd be willing to stop by the training hall?" The master gave a knowing smile. "You see I have some momentous news for you kids. An old friend of mine is on his way to Legram. A fellow swordsman of great repute, not just in Erebonia but all over Zemuria itself. I've mentioned that you were one of my star pupils, Ezra. He's quite eager to see your prowess."

Ezra wouldn't admit it, but the thought of meeting a great swordsman did have its appeal. It wasn't uncommon for a guest instructor to swing by Legram and teach something outside the norm of the Arseid School. It was always the talk of the training hall for the next few days as they soaked in the new teachings. "And who exactly is this great swordsman?" He asked tentatively.

"My old friend, Master Yun Ka-Fai." The room was quiet, and a jolt went down Ezra's spine with those words. Victor chuckled, enjoying the dumbstruck looks on all the children's faces, Phoebe having even put a hand to her mouth. "Ah yes. I've known the Grandmaster of the Eight Leaves, One Blade School for many years. I doubt you would want to miss that now, would you, Ezra?"

"The Sword Hermit is coming here?" Ezra did not want to believe his ears, raising his eyebrows in surprise. He heard of the exploits of the aged master, and the school he had created himself. "Yun Ka-Fai is going to train with us?"

"Indeed," Victor affirmed, knowing that Ezra was guaranteed to start attending classes again if the way his hands clenched were any indication. "He's also bringing his apprentice, a young man your age, with him as well. They'll both be training with us, according to this letter he sent me. I'm certain you would make him feel welcome." It was then Laura remembered her dream from earlier, and the young man with ashen hair wreathed by those brilliant azure flames.

Ezra then abruptly turned on his heel and walked out of the room. "Where are you going?" Phoebe asked concernedly. He looked over his shoulder, giving a trademark goofball grin.

"Home, I have a sudden compulsion to grab my sword and practice for a bit. I've got a year's worth of rust to shake off if I want to be ready for our guests." Victor smirked, victory had now been attained! Hope gleamed in Laura's eyes. "Laura, Master Victor, I'll see the two of you in class tomorrow, same time and place as always?"

"Your spot in class is always there. I'm sure the other apprentices will be quite happy to see you return, Ezra." Laura smirked akin to her father, there was no denying they were father and daughter. She knew for a fact she was eager to see her old friend in action once again. "Perhaps you and I can spar again, just as we did before?"

"But of course! You were the only one who could match me anyway!" Ezra exclaimed, inside his heart, a fire that had dimmed since his aunt's disappearance was slowly coming to life. For some reason, the prospect of meeting the Sword Hermit brought his passion for the blade roaring back, and he wasn't going to make a bad impression.

(Industrial City of Roer, Nortia Province, April 13th, 1203)

The heart of Nortia Province was always stirring to Rean. As the center of research and science for the Empire, it had a high-tech feel about a place that just couldn't be found anywhere else in Erebonia. But the one thing that always marveled Rean was the twin escalators in the center of town. It was where his small party was currently standing. It was clear to Rean that Emma hadn't stepped much outside her home village before coming to Thors.

The poor girl looked rather intimidated by the big city, taking in all the unfamiliar sights and sounds. It was making Emma rather flustered, given how people just pushed by her without saying anything. She really wished Celine was there in that moment. He put a hand on her shoulder. "How about we get something to eat? There's a nice diner not far from here called Dvance's. I think we can plan better on full stomachs."

"Some lunch would be nice." Emma agreed slowly, blushing as her stomach growled. She placed a tentative hand on her midsection as if it would quell the issue entirely. Dvance's was just as Rean remembered it, not the type of place a noble would frequent, but the food was affordable and the service was always pleasant for those who enjoyed it. The trio sat at a corner table, enjoying their lunch. The more the Ashen Awakener thought of his plan, the more he started to have second thoughts about it.

"You know the idea seemed easy enough in principle when I thought of it," Rean explained to Emma and his Master, looking between them both with a sharp look in his eyes. "I mean I know Alisa is here in Roer. I just don't know how we're going to find her. I mean it's not like we can just walk in the front door of the Reinford Building and say we're Alisa's classmates, even if technically that is accurate in another eleven months."

"Perhaps if we wait around long enough, we'll run into her while she's shopping?" Emma offered, humming thoughtfully.

The Sword Hermit broke the silence, giving a surly half-grin. He had already been nursing a bit of Erebonian lager. And it was barely past noon. "Perhaps you should go ahead and do Rean's plan." They both looked at the old sage in surprise. He pointed to both of them before taking a drawn-out sip of his drink before continuing. "March in and say you're Alisa's classmates. You've said none of them are lacking in the brains department." Master Ka-Fai sipped his lager once more. He was really quite enjoying himself. "If anything else, it will certainly get Miss Reinford's attention. From her point of a view, it's a blatant falsehood, She'll want answers. At least it will get your foot in the door."

"Provided it's not crushed, and shot with an arrow, before it gets hacked to pieces by chains." The student let out a dread-filled noise, placing a hand on his temple as he looked into his lunch platter for a sense of hope. Rean reflected on how it wouldn't just be Alisa they'd have to contend with, but a certain uber-competent maid in the family's employ that was also extremely protective of her young charge. "Then again, we can't stay here forever, so I guess we'll go with Plan A even if we don't have a B, C, or D!"

With their meal complete, and a short escalator ride to the upper level of the Industrial City. Emma, Rean, and Master Ka-Fai stood at the entrance to the Reinford Industrial Group's central headquarters. The tallest building in the city, it reached far into the sky. Master Ka-Fai sat down on a bench. "I'll leave this to you, youngsters. All this traveling takes a toll on an old man's body." Rean just gave his master an irritated glare, like walking long distances would be a problem for such as him. Ignoring the hermit's trolling smile, He and Emma stepped into the lobby.

Again, Rean took a few moments to take in the atmosphere, recalling the last times he had been here. The displays of the various Reinford products Reinford were prominent, especially of note was the Achtzen Main Battle Tank in one corner of the room. The two teenagers approached the main reception desk, where a young woman in a khaki uniform sat. "Welcome to the Reinford Group, how can I help you?" She asked.

"Actually, we're here to see Miss Alisa Reinford." The dark-haired young man said, gesturing to himself and then his witchy companion. "My name is Rean Schwarzer, this is Emma Millstein. We're Alisa's classmates." He put on a sheepish grin. "I hate to admit this, but I missed a homework assignment for school. I was hoping she'd be able to remind me of what that was. I just need her to tell me, that's all." The receptionist looked at them for a few seconds, clearly not sure what to make of the ruse, a manicured nail tapped on the counter once before she smiled.

"I will call Miss Reinford down, you can take a seat over there." She indicated to one of the many couches in the lobby. Rean nodded to her, and he and Emma sat down.

"Well, they didn't throw us out right away, that's a good sign," Emma remarked hesitantly, generally she wondered if such a hastily thrown-together plan would work.

"Yeah, that was just the first hurdle, now the real challenge begins," Rean said, his gaze squarely on the two elevators flanking the main desk. He bowed his head slightly, whispering a quick prayer to the goddess. "Aidios, if you're listening right now, please let Alisa be open-minded and in a relatively good mood!"

The doors of the right-hand elevator opened and admitted a blonde-haired young woman wearing a dark brown button-up shirt and a red and brown pleated skirt, with dark pantyhose that showed off a pair of long legs ending in brown high heels. Her red eyes radiated confusion as she met Rean's gaze. A part of him already dreading what was to come. Alisa Reinford approached the other two. She looked from Rean to Emma and back, before putting her hands on her hips and saying. "Okay, who are you two and why should I not have you thrown out?"

Rean sighed, looking up to the cruel ceiling, and said in a harsh whisper. "Thanks a lot…"

Chapter Text

Disclaimer: See Chapter 1

Another Roll of the Dice

by Storm Wolf77415 and Centurious the Azure

Chapter Three: Drawing a New Card

Of course, it wouldn't be this easy! Why did Rean ever think that in the first place? Alisa dragged them into an empty conference room, and her glare was as fierce as it was during their original field study in Roer, or maybe even when he accidentally felt her up back in the Old Schoolhouse, which felt like two lifetimes ago. He would definitely need Laura with him for that. He looked at Emma for a minute, and went back to Alisa. You know what? Screw it all to Gehenna! He would just tell Alisa the truth, it does set you free after all, that or get you thrown into a padded room. But he figured Emma could bail him out in short order with her teleportation spell.

He merely straightened himself up, and answered Alisa's glare with one of his own. "It's like I told your receptionist. This is Emma Millstein and I'm Rean Schwarzer, son of Baron Teo Schwarzer from Ymir. We're your classmates or we will be your classmates in a few months when we attend Thors Military Academy. I'm a time traveler from the future, and I'm on a trip around the Empire to find the rest of our friends." He quirked his gaze slightly over her shoulder. "You can also tell Sharon to come out of hiding. I know she's skulking about."

Alisa's jaw dropped, even as the maid in question emerged from the side room, a steely glare on her face, but he could see the turmoil in her eyes. Rean genuinely smiled. "Ah, good to see you again, Sharon. I'm glad to know you're as vigilant as ever. It's been quite a while and I've missed your cooking. But just so we're clear, you haven't talked to Bleublanc or McBurn, or anyone else in Ouroboros for that matter lately, have you?" It was now Sharon's turn to let her jaw drop. Rean grinned. It wasn't often he got one over on the Reinford Family's favorite attendant!

"What?" Alisa said in disbelief.

"Uh." Sharon struggled to find her words. So, Rean did it for her.

"There are things you never knew about your family maid. Sharon Kreuger, known as the Severing Chains, formerly Enforcer Number Nine of Ouroboros. She abandoned the organization for reasons only known to her and has since served as the maid to the Reinford Family. Sharon is a loving older sister figure to you, even if she does troll you relentlessly, and she helps you deal with the rocky mess that is the relationship with your mother, Irina Reinford. She seized control of the company from your grandfather, Gwyn Reinford, who currently spends his days at his cabin up in the Nord Highlands."

"Okay stop!" Alisa exclaimed, holding her hands out. "I don't know how you know those things. but even what you say is true, time travel is impossible!"

Rean struggled to hold his grin back. This was way too much fun! "It happened to me. Of course, I did have to die for it to happen." That got another double jaw drop from Alisa and Sharon, not to mention a slight whimper from Emma. That hurt the witch greatly. "I really should have asked Crow about the particulars before I agreed to this whole job." He just shrugged. "Oh well, I'll see him at school soon enough, I can ask him then."

"You died?" Alisa screeched.

"That sounds quite troublesome." Sharon mused.

"A year and a half from now in North Ambria. I'm still not sure what went down. I remember everything that happened up to a few months before that point, but I don't know exactly what exactly transpired when I died. It's all a huge blur to me." Rean said, a deep part of his psyche shuddered as if a wall was in place around those memories. "But with my luck, it was nothing good." He took a deep breath and decided to put the trolling aside for now. He had gotten his point across and needed to win them both over. "Look, Alisa, Emma and I just wanted to look in on you before I head south to Legram, that's all the reason we're here. You're a precious to us and wanted to be sure you were doing okay."

Emma then decided to cut in. "What he's saying is true, Alisa. Rean is from the future. I know this because I felt a time shift a few weeks ago. If you have any kind of connection to us, maybe you felt something similar?"

"Could that have been around the end of last month, the 31st or so?" Sharon spoke up, noting how Rean and Emma reacted. "You did have a very adverse reaction when you were taking your shower that night, my lady. You fell right on your butt. I recall you were very worried about bruising it." Sharon offered; a smirk hidden behind her hand as she watched Alisa's face start to flare up. Rean was struggling to keep a straight face as Emma hid her own cheeks behind her hands to hide her own embarrassment.

"Okay fine! Maybe I did feel something that night. I thought it was just a chill." Alisa huffed. Remembering Rean's previous words about how Sharon did love to troll her. She took another look at these two strangers, and as she really looked at Rean, the weirdest feeling bubbled up. It was a sense of familiarity with him, Emma, as well. It was a pleasant feeling, a sense of belonging. Something that just didn't come from looking at her mother. She shook her head, not sure what to make of it. Sharon then put her hand on Alisa's shoulder. This time there was no sign of her usual trolling demeanor.

"My lady, I may not know anything about time travel, but if there is one thing I know is when someone is lying. I do not sense any duplicity from either of these two. Perhaps there is a grain of truth to what Master Rean and Lady Emma are saying? Or maybe there's a way to definitively prove he has knowledge of the future. Something that is only known to those of our own family?" The Enforcer-turned-maid looked to Rean. It didn't take any kind of advanced senses to see Sharon was giving them a chance to earn their trust. The Ashen Awakener had to think of something quick. It was then he remembered Crow's other gift. He reached into his pocket and to his relief, his battered old student notebook was there.

"Give me a minute," he said, paging through it quickly. He found a section marked 'Alisa', and under it 'pocket watch' was labeled. "Perfect! Alisa, you want proof that I'm from the future? Perhaps I can help you out with a little task. Your mother has a pocket watch in her possession. It was a gift from her husband, your father. If it's not broken now, it will be by the end of next year. Your mother gave it to the local repairman, a guy named Jackass, to fix but he wasn't able to do anything because he didn't have the necessary components. So, we wandered about Roer to find what was required and we got it fixed for her. In fact, I happen to have the names of those very components in here. We could go on a little shopping trip and pick those up for you?"

The question hung in the air. Alisa's eyes knit together. She knew about the watch herself, often seeing her mother Irina look at it when she was impatient about something. The Reinford Heiress was still skeptical, but if Sharon was saying they could be trusted. How could she be wrong? "I'm not sure if it's busted or not, and I don't know if I could find a way to check on it. But let's say I believe you. What exactly did we use to fix it?"

"A Type IV Pressure Regulator, a small sheet of alloy metal, and a grain of Zemurian Ore for the Micro Oscillator." Alisa gasped at the last one. "Yeah, I figured that last one would get a reaction from you." Rean took a chance, lightly laying his hand on Alisa's shoulder. The blonde's cheeks flushed slightly. But she didn't push it away. "If you're willing to go through with this, we could easily get all of these parts. When it's time, you can give us the pocket watch, and we'll take it to Jackass, and it will be good as new. That's up to you though, Alisa. You have the final say in the matter."

Even if she didn't entirely believe the whole-time travel business. Alisa found her respect for Rean going up quite a bit, if just because he was giving her the final choice. She looked to Sharon, if anyone's opinion mattered to the Reinford heiress, it was that of her loyal maid. The former Enforcer said nothing. Merely folding her hands in front of her, and giving her usual disarming smile and a slight bow. Sighing, she looked to Rean, folding her arms. "Okay then, if you can bring me these components, you'll have won me over. How long do you see this taking?"

Emma and Rean looked to each other as they started making plans. "The alloy sheet shouldn't be too difficult, we got that at the mine. The pressure regulator might take a little more doing, but the guys at the RIT seemed pretty cool about giving it to us when we asked. The Zemurian Ore will be the real challenge. We had to go and see Gwyn to even know we'd need it in the first place. It took a trip all the way up to Nord to make that happen. Then George was the one who actually got it for us. I don't know many places that will have even a small amount of Zemurian Ore just laying around not being used."

"I don't think it will take it very long for us to find it. We could probably have it ready by the end of the day." Emma asked. "We were initially just passing through here on our way to Legram. However, we'll gladly put in the leg work if it helps you trust us, Alisa."

Putting her hands on her hips. The blonde let out a slightly resigned huff. "Okay then, I'll leave that to you guys. I wouldn't mind going along and seeing it for myself, but I've got other issues to deal with, unfortunately." Neither of her fellow future classmates missed the venom in his voice. "My mother says I need to keep up my studies if I'm going to find my place in the company. Tell the people at the mine and institute I sent you, and that should be enough for you to get what you need. As for the Zemurian Ore." Alisa paused for a minute, tapping her foot. "You let me handle that. I can ask a couple of people."

"When you have everything, I'll be waiting for you outside the Reinford Building." She took a slip of scrap paper out of her pocket and quickly scrawled something on it before handing the paper to Rean. "That's my phone number. Sharon will show you out." With that Alisa left the room, giving both a final look, and even a small smile "And thank you. If we really are meant to be friends. Then I can see why we get along so well." A little wave and she was out the door.

Sharon tittered as she led them to the elevator. "I'm not sure if she fully believes your story about being from the future, Master Rean, but you've clearly had an impact on her just by this brief interaction. She's always been rather prickly when it comes to Chairwoman Irina and how she took control of the company after Master Franz's death. Perhaps a couple of new friends are just what she needed. Please be careful in your journey. I'm sure Lady Alisa would be upset if anything happened to you!" Rean could practically see the heart at the end of the super maid's statement.

He was going to put the kibosh on that line of thinking right quick! "Actually, I already have my sights set on another girl in our class. The daughter of the Radiant Blademaster in fact. Make no mistake, Alisa is very attractive, but she's just not my type." Rean silently hoped he didn't end up groping her come next March. If he could avoid any of his earlier mishaps, that would be a big one. "If anything, Alisa became like a sister to me the first time around. She was my voice of reason whenever I started doing anything really stupid." He was going to be sure to heed Alisa's words, no matter what.

Sharon almost looked cute with the way she was pouting in disappointment. "Oh well, I suppose it's not like there aren't plenty of eligible bachelors out there. But at the very least promise me you'll be a good friend to Lady Alisa during your time at school together. She needs all the support she can get." The determined nod from Rean, and the quiet smile from Emma as they walked out the doors gave the former Severing Chains hope that the girl who was so much like a little sister to her would finally get some acknowledgment and support from people she trusted.

Master Ka-Fai was still sitting on the bench as Emma and Rean walked out of the Reinford Building. He could see the satisfaction on their faces, so clearly, it was mission complete. "So how did it go?" The Sword Hermit handed each of them a bottle of water. "Did you manage to win her over?"

"Kind of, but we need to do a little chore for Alisa before she's totally onboard with us," Emma said. They went on to explain to Master Ka-Fai their little meeting with The Reinford heiress and her maid. "We need to find the components for this pocket watch. Alisa said she would work on finding the Zemurian Ore we need, so all we have to do is focus on the mine and the institute for the alloyed metal sheet and pressure regulator." The Sword Hermit stood up and stretched, cracking his neck in the process, making Emma wince some.

"Ah, so we have a nice little fetch quest then." Ka-Fai let out a scratchy yawn. "Perhaps we can stop by the institute first since it's right here in town? I've heard of the Sachsen Iron Mines, and it's a long walk for an old man such as myself. So may as well handle the easy stuff right now." Rean rolled his eyes. He knew better than anyone that his master had the constitution of a man half his age. Luckily the Roer Institute of Technology was literally next door, so why make things overly complicated? They found a couple of the students out front working with some kind of complicated apparatus none of them would probably understand.

"Good afternoon to you. Hope we're not disrupting your experiment." Rean said to the engineers in training, they were all a few years older than them, maybe about nineteen or even in their early twenties. "We're friends of Alisa Reinford." They all perked up at the mention of the Reinford heiress's name. "We're doing a little chore for her and there's a particular component we need to get it done. Is it too much to ask if you have any Type IV Pressure Regulators you're not using?"

"Oh yeah, we've got more than a few of those just lying around the school. Give us a minute and we'll get one for you." One of them ran inside the walled building. Five minutes later the student came out with a small brass valve in hand. 'One Type IV Pressure Regulator, good to go!" He dropped it into Rean's hand. "Be sure to give Alisa our regards, her family has always been good to the institute, so we're always glad to pay them back even if it's just in the smallest way." The students went back to their experiment and the trio walked away.

"Heh, that was really easy," Rean said, rolling the small instrument in hand. "All we need is the alloyed sheet from the mine, and our role in this is done." He checked his watch. "It's just after 11 am, and the mine is a good distance from here. How about we take a short lunch break and then we can travel up the mountain and get the metal sheet then? The trip up and down the mountain will take all afternoon." It was at that moment his stomach growled. "Looks like we timed lunch just right." This got giggles from Emma and a wheezing chortle from Master Ka-Fai. They headed to the diner for a bite to eat.

(Roer Station)

Ezra groaned as he dragged himself out of the train station. "Never thought train lag could be a thing! Seven hours and four changeovers?" He ran his hand through his messy hair, cursing not having a comb. "I thought the railroad system was supposed to make travel across the empire easier!" It was a long journey from Legram to Roer, necessitating changeovers in Bareahard, Celdic, and one final change in Heimdallr itself. Not to mention the time waiting at each station didn't help.

But Ezra wouldn't be deterred. He was on a mission, and the long trek to the Industrial Metropolis that served as the capital of Nortia Province was all worth it. The knowledge the Sword Hermit was coming to Legram had fully revitalized him, not just in his sword training but in wanting to know what happened to his aunt. Wakana's room had been undisturbed since her disappearance, and he had never really asked about her past. If there was any way to find where she was, he had to know more.

So, he had broken the seal and dared to venture into forbidden territory, combing through her multitude of diaries and manuscripts, Ezra had learned after graduating from college, Wakana had worked for the pharmaceutical branch of Randall Industries, a conglomerate that was nearly as widespread as Reinford, and also headquartered in Roer. They had connections all over Erebonia and beyond. If anyone could tell him what happened to his aunt, or at the very least point him in the right direction, it would be someone there.

He hadn't told a soul about this little personal mission, not even Laura and they had been childhood friends. Ezra had written a note for Geralt and Yesenia explaining why he had done this. A part of him felt bad about being so evasive, but his relationship with Wakana had been so important to him, and he wouldn't be able to find any semblance of peace of mind until he had some more definitive answers.

Ezra craned his neck upward, just taking a few minutes to drink in the sights. "So, this is Roer." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a couple of wrinkled scraps of paper. "Okay, so Randall Industries is in the southern part of town." He looked up to see the towering spire of the Reinford Building. "And that right there is the best-known landmark of the entire city. I suppose that will be my starting point." He went up the escalator, feeling the comforting weight of his sword on his back.

He took a brief moment to look at the Reinford Building. It was impressive, but not the reason he was here. He was about to start searching for the Randall Industries compound when something caught his attention. "Honestly Naomi, why did you put me into this ridiculous getup? I can barely move in these shoes!" A harsh but decidedly feminine voice complained. "Oh, come on, Kasane, you need to be more fashionable in your life!" A second feminine voice, but also far gentler chided the first. "You can't keep wearing the same ratty clothes time and time again. There's no sin in getting dolled up every once in a while, and you're naturally beautiful, so embrace it!"

Ezra may have been on a mission, but he was still a teenage boy with raging hormones. If a pair of pretty girls were involved, then he was all over it. A year had gone by since his Aunt's disappearance. An extra half-hour wouldn't hurt that much, would it? He followed the argument and stopped in his tracks when he saw the vision of loveliness standing in front of a fashionable women's boutique. The first girl was blonde, wearing a dark green sundress with a dark brown sweater, showing off a pair of long-toned legs in brown flats. She had a wide smile as her blue eyes sparkled. "See what I mean, Kasane? That looks so good on you!"

If the girl in green was pretty, then the other one was truly gorgeous. At least Ezra thought so. Long ice blue hair cascaded down her back. She wore a black knit crop top that hung off her shoulders, a thin halter neck looped around her elegant-looking neck. A small purple bow hung in the center. A light pink, pleated skirt hung to the mid-length of her thighs, showing off a pair of stunning legs wrapped in black pantyhose, capped off by matching black pumps. The girl looked more than a little embarrassed to be seen in it. "But it shows off so much skin, Naomi! Not to mention these high heels are an accident just waiting to happen. What if someone tries to make off with us? How do you expect me to run in these things?"

The girl in green held a hand to her mouth. "Oh Kasane, you are such a worrywart sometimes!" She could see the blue-haired girl wasn't wholly convinced and pouted. It was then she caught sight of Ezra. Her lips twisted into a mischievous smile. Naomi Randall knew her younger sister well enough. She just needed a little confidence booster. "Hm, maybe what you need is a man's opinion. What do you think?" Ezra froze in his tracks when he realized Naomi was talking right to him. "Doesn't my younger sister, Kasane, look simply beautiful in this ensemble I picked out for her?"

"Uh." Of all times for Ezra's mental faculties to evacuate his head. He took a closer look at Kasane. She just gave him an annoyed glare. "Yeah." He finally said, trying to put on an air of bravado. At same time, he was silently wishing his face wasn't slowly warming up at looking into Kasane's brilliant red eyes, a perfect contrast to her sister's blue. "She is quite the beauty." He then took notice of the hair clips both girls wore. Ezra found himself lost in the way the white and red thread swirled together. It made him think of a lycoris flower. "Those look really nice. My friend Phoebe might like that. Maybe you could tell me where you got it from so, I could get one for her?"

"That won't be possible," Kasane said matter of factly, that glare still boring into Ezra's soul. "They were made by Naomi herself. Only two of them exist." Only for Naomi to gently dig an elbow into her side, and gently shake her head. Her expression softened slightly. "But I suppose she could have one made for your friend."

"Uh, thank you, I suppose?" Ezra offered. "Man, what is up with this chick? I can't nail her down at all." He muttered under his breath. The whole moment was turning real awkward. It was then he realized something. "Hold on a minute. These two are from Roer. Maybe they can tell me where I can find Randall Industries." Clearing his throat and adopting a regal posture he had seen his master taken many times. "I suppose proper introductions are in order. My name is Ezra Kanitz. I came up here from the Viscounty of Legram."

That was as far as he got when Naomi practically lit up at this news. Even Kasane seemed impressed. "The Viscounty of Legram, you say? Does that mean you're a student of the Arseid school? I ask because of that sword on your back." She became even more excited. "Does that also mean you were trained by the Radiant Blademaster himself then? I've heard Victor S. Arseid is one of the strongest swordsmen in the entire empire. Only Matteus Vander can claim to be on the same level as him!"

New confidence blossomed inside Ezra. If there was anything he knew well it was his own blade, and there was nothing he took more pride in than the fact he was indeed trained by one of the very best Erebonia had to offer. "Yes, I am a direct apprentice of Viscount Arseid, not to mention his daughter, Lady Laura, has been my main training partner for many years." Fondness colored his tone. "Furthermore, she is my childhood friend. I owe both of them quite a bit." He then remembered the reason he was here. "I'm getting off track. I'm here on personal business. I'm looking for my Aunt Wakana Sumeragi. We were very close when I was younger. About a year ago, she vanished under mysterious circumstances, and I've been looking for her."

"Oh dear." Naomi was quite distressed at the news. "Is there any way we can help you?"

"Yeah, is it possible you can point me in the direction of Randall Industries?" Both girls gasped. "I learned from my Aunt's writings that she worked in their pharmaceutical division before she came to Legram and set up a private practice. I just want to talk to someone there and see if maybe I can gather some more information. Maybe they'd know someplace she might go if she wanted to be alone." It was then Ezra noticed how both sisters were looking at him. "Uh, was it something I said?"

"You're looking for Randall Industries?" Kasane spoke in her usual curt manner. Although Ezra noted that there was a hint of dismay to her voice.

"I'm pretty sure that's what I said." Ezra wasn't sure where this was going. It was almost as if she was breaking him down in her mind and analyzing every little thing about him. Although Naomi seemed to look at him how a normal teenage girl would.

"If that's the case, we can take you there ourselves!" Naomi declared, looping her arm in Ezra's. "Kasane and I know that place very well. It's not too far from here in fact." The two of them walked down the street, and the whole time Ezra could feel Kasane's gaze drilling into the back of his skull. It wasn't his fault Naomi was being so affectionate. Not that he was doing anything to dissuade her. "Here we are!" They stopped in front of a large wall made of steel and concrete, with a large gate and a guard station with two guards in full body armor equipped with assault rifles stationed in front. 'Randall Industries' was emblazoned in large block letters on the top of the gate. "Ta Da! Welcome to the Randall Industrial Compound."

Ezra whistled as they came through the gate. Indeed, it might not have reached to the heavens like the Reinford's skyscraper, but the collection of buildings, warehouses, and massive smokestacks was a testament to the industrial might the Randall family wielded. "This is quite the spread. Not hard to see how the Randalls ended up loaded." He smirked and put his hands on his hips. "Of course, you two would know this better than anybody, considering you're probably related to them, tell me I'm wrong?"

Naomi giggled. "Guilty as charged." She then made a sweeping bow. "Allow me to introduce myself, Naomi Randall at your service! And this vision of beauty is my dear younger sister, Kasane Randall." The blue-haired girl started blushing again. "We were out shopping today because I've been trying to get Kasane to update her wardrobe for months now and she's been digging her heels in, but I managed to finally get her to go." Kasane's blush got even brighter, and Ezra couldn't help but find it cute. "You said you were looking for information on your aunt. I think I can talk to the people in the HR department. One of them might know."

"Anything you can find out would be a huge help to me." Ezra was excited, he could finally get some answers and they were practically at his fingertips. "Her name is Wakana Sumeragi, she's about five foot two, and has pinkish hair that comes to just above her shoulders and red eyes." Her face was forever engraved into his mind. Her kind smile had always given comfort to him growing up as a child. None noticed how Kasane's fingers tensed up. Something about that name caused a twitch in her mind.

Naomi seemed oblivious to all this. "Let's go to the administration building. That's where Human Resources is located." The building in question was probably the tallest in the whole compound at seven stories or so. It was clean and modern, falling in with the rest of Roer's architecture. The door opened and all three entered together. The lobby was clean with pieces of abstract art on the walls. "You stay here in the lobby, Ezra. I'll get what information you need." Naomi went up the stairs, leaving him alone with Kasane.

"This is going to be awkward," Ezra muttered, taking a seat on the couch. He eyed Kasane not having moved from her spot, her arms folded, wearing a look of pure irritation. "Your sister has really good fashion sense." He finally said, hoping that this would help break the ice between them. It seemed to be working if how Kasane started blushing was any indication. Man, that girl got flustered so easily it seemed. "She really knew what she was doing putting that outfit together for you."

"Naomi's always been like that." She sighed, fingering the top, it was made of a very delicate material that probably would tear if someone looked at it wrong, but still, she couldn't deny the elder Randall sister was very stylish. "I prefer something more practical myself. Can't run in these shoes to save my life. Give me a good solid pair of boots any day." The pumps came off as she sat down in a chair across from Ezra. "So, tell me about your aunt. What was she like?" If he wasn't so entranced with her good looks, Ezra would have rolled his eyes at what was clearly an interrogation. Okay then, he could play this game.

"My Aunt Wakana was a doctor. One of the best in all of Legram. Her fees were affordable, and she wasn't afraid to make house calls. No one was sure how she was so good. It was like she could just pull the very sickness out of people. They used to call her a miracle worker." Ezra sighed, remembering how she would come by with a plate of treats and some lemonade for him and Laura to enjoy while they were training on hot summer days. "I can't just imagine why she would leave so mysteriously."

It was then Naomi came back down the steps, a rather grim expression on her face and a file clutched in her hand. "Uh oh, that doesn't look good," Ezra remarked, recalling that frown from his aunt and mother on more than one occasion. She sat down in the chair next to Kasane and opposite him. Her earlier joviality all gone and replaced with a determined gaze. "I take it you found what you were looking for?"

Naomi found it hard to look Ezra in the eyes. "Yeah, your aunt definitely worked for Randall Pharmaceuticals." She opened up the folder, looking through the paperwork, pulling out a picture of the woman wearing a lab coat. "Wakana Sumeragi, M.D. Licensed surgeon, also a well-versed pharmacist, she researched several medications that are in use today, departed the company in 1192 to set up her own private practice in the Viscounty of Legram, just as you've said." She shuffled through the papers some more. "But there are some irregularities that I discovered. Since you're so close to her, perhaps you can sort them out for me so I can update our records?"

"Sure, ask away," Ezra replied. If it brought him closer to finding his aunt, then he was all in.

"The board of directors wanted to keep in touch with her in case we needed her expertise for some kind of consultation. So, we were in regular contact with her after she left the company." Naomi folded her hands and rested her chin in them. "Until fourteen months ago when she vanished on January 2nd, 1202. What was going on that day, and did you see her? How was she acting? Was there anything out of the ordinary about her?" Naomi's questions cut right to the bone for Ezra. But still, it did spark activity in his brain.

He stood up and began walking around the lobby. "Pardon me, I think best when I'm moving around." Ezra rubbed his chin as he dredged up the memories of that day. "Okay, so January 2nd 02 then? Yeah, I remember that day pretty well. It was cold, and it had snowed recently. Since Sunday School was on break for the holiday, I usually hung out at Aunt Wakana's clinic. No big emergencies, except for quite a few hangovers resulting from all the drinking over the last couple days. But in all it was a pretty quiet time."

"Until it wasn't?" Kasane asked, He nodded, those memories becoming very vivid in his mind now.

"We have the last active office for the Bracer Guild in the entire Empire. Toval, the guy who runs it, suddenly barged in saying there was a message for her. Said it was really urgent too. I remember her running out the door, and it was about ten minutes before she came back. Aunt Wakana was worried, I could tell. She started packing her bags and saying that she had to depart for emergency business at once. I remember walking her to the station. She told me that she loved me, and she would be back in a couple of days if not a week or so. Then she went inside. That was the last time I saw her."

Naomi bit her lip. "Well, I think I can shed some light on that, but at the same time, it also raises several more questions. That call your aunt got came from here. Dr. Sumeragi was ordered to Roer with all possible haste. The company sent someone to meet her at the station, but she never showed up." If her earlier questions cut to the bone, those five words hit Ezra right in his soul. Wakana had been called to her old employers, but never arrived? Had something happened at a stop along the way? Naomi's comment was right, despite providing some context about her departure that cold winter day, even more questions had cropped up. "I'm sorry but that's all the info we could find." She looked truly dejected she couldn't help Ezra more.

Slowly, Ezra stood up. "No, that's okay. At least now I understand why she left Legram the way she did. That question has been answered. Now I need to find out what happened to her between there and Roer." He clenched his fist. Ezra felt some dejection at not getting a straight answer, but a fire of resolve was forming in his soul. "Thank you, Naomi, you've given me some hope that Aunt Wakana is still out there. So don't feel bad at all." Her dazzling smile returned. She was truly impressed with Ezra's dedication to his aunt. It didn't hurt he was also kind of cute.

Although Kasane actually seemed rather pained by this. Her fingers twitched one more time. "We'll both do everything we can on our end to try and find anything about your aunt. Is there any way we can contact you?" All of a sudden Ezra's day went from decent to superb! He had a clearer idea of what happened to his beloved aunt and got the phone numbers of two gorgeous women who also happened to be sisters. How could he not call that a win? With information exchanged, Ezra departed the Randall compound. He took a glance around the city. Now that his main objective was complete, he had some time to kill. Why not explore a little before returning home? "I wonder if I can find some good chow." He said, heading for the lower part of the city.

(That Afternoon, Sachesen Mountain Road)

With full bellies, Rean's party began their long trek up Sachesen Mountain, home of the legendary Iron Mine that provided metal for much of the Empire. It had been an uneventful trip so far. The monsters had been little problem for Rean and Emma, who were finding how well they worked together. It just seemed natural for the witch to fall into step with the swordsman, covering him with ranged art attacks while he engaged with his blade. Notably absent from this lineup was the Sword Hermit himself, hanging back. "Just consider it part of your training." Master Ka-Fai drawled. Didn't bother Rean in the long run. The monsters on the Sachsen Road were tough, but nothing he and Emma couldn't handle.

The Dancing Owls and Bomb Spiders were familiar from their field study and during their travels during the civil war. "Eight Leaves, Third Form: Flame Impact!" Rean jumped up, searing fire erupting around his blade as he cleaved the wing of one of the owls before Emma launched her Spectral Blades. The giant ethereal swords impaled the stricken creature, sending it to the ground dead. Rean had just enough time to force back a Roc swooping down from above with its massive talons. He was poised with Ashen Void, now glowing bright red. The tachi swung, emitting a Crimson Slash flying skyward. The bird let out a piercing screech, just avoiding the attack.

It made to swoop in again on Rean. When a sparkling golden-brown shield shimmered into existence before him as the creature slammed into it. He looked over to Emma, who just smiled, realizing she had cast Adamantine Shield to protect him. The bird creature looked stricken, and Rean was taking the opening. "Eight Leaves: Fourth Form, Autumn Leaf Cutter!" Few could see the Ashen Awakener move. Even Emma had trouble keeping up. All she could see was a flash of red, and all she could hear was the sound of the Roc's final pained screech.

Rean landed in a crouch as the bird monster's corpse slammed into the hard dirt road. He stood up with a smirk. Master Ka-Fai's expression mirrored his apprentice. The old sage knew what the young man was capable of. His gaze then fell on Emma as she engaged a horde of Death Sickles. The bipedal mantises let out menacing hisses as they swung the sickles on their forearms. She brought another Adamantine Shield to bear as the insectoid beasts tried to get at the witch. "You won't have a chance! Frost Edge!" Her staff let out a bluish-tinged light. Blades of crystalized ice lanced out, cleaving through the Death Sickles, and with that, the Sachsen Iron Road was that much safer for the time being.

"We should be getting close now. Those monsters were a good workout, but I'll be glad to get that sheet of metal for Alisa." Rean said. The entire mountain then shook with a thunderous roar and equally loud footsteps. "Sounds like something is coming." They readied themselves for whatever was coming. Rean and Emma's weapons nearly fell out of their hands as a massive beast tromped around the corner. One they were both very familiar with. "A Grunoja? I didn't they were found in this part of the country!"

The giant baboon creature loomed over the party, roaring in challenge as its tail lashed madly back and forth. Unlike the one, they faced in the forest. This one had darker brown fur, minus the greens. A series of rocks jutted from its shoulders and along its back. Rean and Group A had faced such a beast on their very first field study. It had been a tough fight then, but it would be harder with just the two of them. It roared, beating its chest, not appreciating intruders on what it perceived as its mountain.

Rean readied himself for a brawl when Master Ka-Fai put a hand on his shoulder. "Well, I suppose it's my time to shine now." The old hermit stepped forward, sheathed blade in hand. "You kids hang back. I'll take care of this little problem." He walked with a casual gait toward the Grunoja, still stomping and snorting, just looking for a fight. The Sword Hermit's thumb flicked Kurohachi Konoha, so it was now loose in the sheath.

With that, Rean took hold of Emma's hand and pulled her back. "Don't worry, Emma. If my master says he has this under control. Then he has it under control!" A sense of anticipation welled up inside him. "It's not often one gets to see him cut loose; this is a rare honor indeed." He was actually excited, wishing he had some popcorn for the occasion. The two teenagers held their breath and waited for the imminent battle. The Grunoja made the first move, roaring as its massive fists came down to crush the puny man in front of him.

Dust was kicked up and dirt clods flew in all directions. The monster noticed a distinctive lack of human viscera missing on its palms. Master Ka-Fai was standing behind the monster, shaking his head in disproval. "Well, that was a good strike, but you telegraph your movements far too clearly. I could see it coming from an arge away." Ka-Fai almost sounded like he was scolding the monster like a wayward student. The monster grunted, looking to see the Sword Hermit standing there, sword still sheathed. A slight breeze kicked through, making Ka-Fai's beard and hakama flutter a little. The old man crouched, hand on his blade. "An attack should be clean and precise." The monster roared again, and he vanished. "Second Form: Typhoon Gale!"

The monster roared in pain, rearing back with bloody stumps where two fingers once were on its left hand, while its right arm flailed about madly, going for a meaty backhand. Ka-Fai leapt into the air, the limb swatting nothing but air. "Lashing out angrily won't get you anywhere either." Kurohachi Konoha began to glow with red energy like Ashen Void earlier, but even brighter and more energetic. "It just leaves you more open! Sixth Form: Supreme Crimson Arc Slash!" Emma estimated the Sword Hermit's attack was twice the size of Rean's. A clear indication of just how strong he was.

The student was non-plussed at his teacher's strength. "As I said, few get a chance to see the master in action. Truthfully, he's not even trying that hard. Now if it was something like a Magic Knight or a Cryptid, then we'd really be in for a show." Their discussion stopped just in time to see the Grunoja roar again, lunging at Master Ka-Fai to grab him in its hands and crush the master to death. But the Sword Hermit was crouched and ready. "First Form: Leaf Helix Strike!" Swinging thrice, a tornado of bluish-green energy whipped up, creating a cyclone of power that left deep wounds on the baboon's hide.

The Grunoja was on the ropes, staggering back from Master Ka-Fai's onslaught. The old master barely looked fazed; this was just a light warm-up for him. "Well, this has been fun, but we have a very pressing engagement at the Iron Mines and you're in our way. So, I'm afraid that our playtime is over." Kurohachi Konoha returned to its resting place in the sheath as the Sword Hermit crouched in a battojutsu stance. No fear in the old man's eyes as the maddened creature rushed at him in full force. "Fifth Form: Morning Moon, Luminous Judgment!" If Emma wasn't able to see him move during Gale. Then she hadn't even blinked when he seemed to just plain vanish from her sight.

Blood gushed from a deep laceration on the Grunoja's left leg. The monster roared and staggered into the dirt. "Consider this the final blow!" Yun Ka-Fai was airborne again, sword clenched in both hands overhead. He came down, flames bursting to life along the whole length of his blade, taking the form of a mighty eastern style dragon. "Eight Leaves One Blade School: Third Form. Supreme Dragon Impact!" The blade came down and the fiery construct with it, consuming the Grunoja in blistering hot flames. Emma had to shield her eyes, but Rean looked on as the flames dissipated, leaving his master standing next to a burned, smoking corpse.

Master Ka-Fai let out a short, wheezing sigh. He sheathed his weapon in a very deliberate manner. The lesson had concluded, and all had been educated. "Well, that little issue has been taken care of. Let's get to the mine, now, shall we?" He dusted off his pants and began walking as if the encounter hadn't occurred at all. With nothing else to say, the two teenagers fell in step with the older man, safely arriving at Sachesen Iron Mine. They entered the main office to find the foreman conversing with a couple of his workers.

"Good day to you folks. What brings you all the way out here?" The foreman asked.

Emma stepped forward. "We're here on behalf of Alisa Reinford, we need a small sheet of alloyed metal. It doesn't have to be much, twenty by twenty reges square, and less than two reges thick. Do you think you can help us out?"

"Oh, that's easy! We keep plenty of that in stock. We can cut you off what you need in no time." He barked to one of the miners also in the room. "You heard the lady! Get her an alloyed metal sheet, twenty by twenty reges square, and make it snappy!" The miner nodded and quickly departed into the farther depths of the mine. The miner came back in no less than ten minutes, a small metal square in hand. The foreman gave it to Emma. "There you are, my dear. True to our word. Anything for the Reinfords."

"Thank you, sir." Rean grinned, quite satisfied at having achieved both their goals. It was time to return to town and meet back up with Alisa.

(Roer, That Evening)

It was sundown when Rean and his friends returned to the Industrial Metropolis. As promised, Alisa was waiting for them in front of the Reinford Building. "Well, did you get them?" She asked. Rean and Emma produced the pressure regulator and the alloy sheet in turn. She whistled. "Wow, you actually pulled it off!" Reaching into her pocket, she produced a small chunk of dark ore the size of a small marble, glistening like stars in the brilliant night sky. "As did I. Found out the First Division actually had a small supply of Zemurian Ore kept for research purposes. So, it wasn't too hard to convince them to part with just enough for what we needed. Helps they didn't ask what it was for."

Alisa accepted the other components from Rean and Emma. "I also managed to sneak a look at Mom's watch. It's still working but now that I have what's needed to repair it. I might be able to earn some goodwill with her. The key word being might." She bowed her head slightly, clearly still upset at how aloof and cold Irina could be sometimes. "So…the future, we really do become classmates? Become…friends?" There was uncertainty in Alisa's voice, but it was tinged by hope. The idea that she would forge such strong, deep connections was appealing to her.

Rean's nod was all the assurance Alisa needed. "We sure do. It didn't seem possible for it to work. Nobles and commoners in the same class, so many disparate people from different walks of life coming together. It seemed like it could be a huge mess, but it wasn't. We had our growing pains, but we came together when it counted. In fact, the express purpose you applied to Thors was to get out from your family's shadow. We didn't even know you were a Reinford right away, just used your last initial. But, none of us thought any less of you as a person, even after we learned the truth. You are a treasured friend, and we would do all possible to make your life better however we could."

Tears formed in her eyes, as Emma gave her a gentle hug. Then it was the Ashen Awakener's turn, giving the Reinford Heiress a slight embrace, lilac eyes looking into reddish brown. "The town of Trista, March 31st, next year. Save the location and the date, because that's where and when Class VII comes together for the very first time. Take care of yourself until then, Alisa. We'll see you there." She smiled and waved as Rean, Emma, and Master Ka-Fai headed down the escalator.

"That's one down. Now onto Legram." Rean felt good about himself at that moment. He had managed to win Alisa over with the components to fix the pocket watch, and one of his biggest worries was now laid to rest. They stopped in front of the train station. "Master, is okay if we take the train just this once? It would be quite impractical for us to walk all the way south. I think even you know that." The Sword Hermit just chortled, and led them inside. A few seconds later, Ezra walked into the station. His mind still combing over his conversation with the Randall sisters from earlier.

"Aunt Wakana didn't just leave because she felt like it. She came here to Roer to meet with the Randalls for some reason." He muttered to himself as he purchased his ticket at the counter. "The question now is how did she meet with some kind of foul play or was it something else? And where did it happen?" He kept musing as he walked onto the platform where the train was loading. "The main changeovers on the line are Bareahard and Heimdallr, not to mention Celdic and Trista if you count for minor stops. And there's the fact she could have just gotten on another train and gone in another direction entirely." He boarded the train, slumping in his seat. "The hunt will have to wait another day. I'm beat."

A tremor beneath his feet and the feeling of forward momentum was the signal the train was pulling out of the station. It wasn't long before the world was hurtling by the windows. Ezra wasn't paying much attention to it. He was content to just doze and get some rest. He wasn't sure what it was, the clacking of the train car along the rails, the soft rumbling of the train's mighty engine, but it soothed him regardless. He was always of the opinion that train naps were the best naps.

A couple of seats down Rean watched the Erebonian countryside pass by him. The memory of every field study they took raced by with the landscape. "This is how it always started, us waking up early in the morning and boarding a train to our destination." He said to Emma sitting across the way from him, who was looking out the window in awe. "We'd talk about where we were going and what we could expect once we arrived at the field study location. Usually if one of our classmates was from around there, they would fill us in. Once the briefing was over. Then we'd play a couple of rounds of Blade and aside from looking out the window that would be it."

Emma smiled, glad to see Rean looking upbeat. "You have many fond memories of those days, don't you?" Rean nodded, gaze going back outside. "I'm eager to experience these field studies for myself. I had always read about distant places in books. But besides looking for Vita, the chance to see those places for myself was the reason I became a wandering witch. Learning about these places firsthand was always a treat for me."

Rean rolled his eyes. "If you're looking for exciting experiences. Our field studies were anything but boring. We got a real up close and personal look at our country, the good parts and the bad. There was almost always some problem happening that we had to help resolve. But we did come away with a better understanding of the various issues plaguing the Empire. That understanding did help us determine the direction we wanted to take when the civil war broke out. Erebonia isn't perfect by any means, but our countrymen deserve to live a peaceful life. It's where Class VII comes into play."

The ride was uneventful for a while. The train rolled into Heimdallr station, marking the first changeover the party would have to make. Rean was looking at the large map that showed the entire train network. His gaze fell over familiar locations, before coming to rest on one place in particular. "Trista." He breathed. Truly that small little suburb had become a second home to Rean. It was the place that helped the Ashen Awakener find himself, and shape his identity after searching so long for his place in the world.

"It is a big thing to be sure." A male voice drawled, Rean looked over to Ezra, eyes also scanning the map. His dark green coat idly blowing. "This web of iron and wood allows us to travel so easily across this great land of ours. On the one hand, it makes a man feel rather small in the grand scheme of things." He side-eyed Rean. "Still, It is also a testament to mankind's engineering prowess and our drive to expand across the continent. Don't you think?"

Ezra's question actually made Rean think about the true scale of the rail network. He started looking the map over more closely, and really understand how it spread the entire country. The rail network was the lifeblood of the country he called home, connecting all corners of the empire. "You're not wrong. The railroad system practically defines Erebonia. I can't imagine having to traipse across the whole country on foot." This got a chuckle out of Ezra. If only knew where that joke came from. Rean held out his hand. "I'm Rean Schwarzer, from Ymir."

"Ezra Kanitz, from Legram." Rean's eyes widened in shock as they shook hands. "What?"

"You're from Legram?" Rean wasn't sure if he could believe his ears. Who would have expected him to run into someone from their destination along the way? "I'm actually heading there right now with a couple of my friends. Wow, talk about coincidence."

"No kidding, that is a coincidence." Now that Ezra knew he was going the same place as Rean, he began quietly sizing the black-haired young man up. He hadn't noticed it earlier, but he realized there was something about how Rean carried himself that seemed familiar to him. "So, you're waiting on the train to Bareahard then? You don't mind if I tag along, since we're heading the same way? The journey from Legram to Roer was a total drag for me. The journey is always much nicer when traveling with other people. What do you say?" Ezra offered.

Rean was always up for making new friends, and Ezra seemed affable enough. The young Eight Leaves practitioner was also evaluating this new arrival. Clearly, he was a warrior of some kind, given the sword on his back. "Sure, I'm traveling with my master and another friend." They walked over to where Master Ka-Fai and Emma were waiting on a bench. The former thumbing through the newspaper, while Emma snacked on a candy bar she got at the counter. Ezra whistled in appreciation at the sight of Emma's figure, before gently elbowing Rean in the side. "If that's your girlfriend, then you got really lucky."

"Emma's not my girlfriend!" Rean quickly protested in a hushed tone. "She's just a very good friend of mine. The older gentleman is my teacher." The two boys walked up to their companions. "Hey folks, you're not going to believe this. Let me introduce you to Ezra. He's from Legram." Emma looked on in surprise, and Master Ka-Fai just gave a slight nod. "Ezra, meet my friend and classmate, Emma Millstein, and my master, Yun Ka-Fai." The entire world went still for Ezra, his face bone white. "Are you okay?" Rean asked his new friend, worriedly.

"D-did you just say Yun Ka-Fai?" Ezra pointed at the old man, who slowly got to his feet, wearing an amused expression. Ezra's mind was completely blown that he had run into the legend himself while waiting for the train. "You really are Yun Ka-Fai, the Sword Hermit? Yun Ka-Fai. Grandmaster of the Eight Leaves, One Blade School?" He then looked to Rean. "Then does that mean you're his apprentice?" Rean just nodded. "Wow." That was all Ezra had to say, it was happening so quick. He wondered if this was a dream.

The old man chortled, not fazed at being called out. Even swordsmen had their fans. "So, you must be Victor's prodigy. He spoke very highly of you when we last exchanged letters." Ezra took in the presence of Master Ka-Fai gave off. For the longest time, Victor S. Arseid was Ezra's personal gold standard of strength. Emanating a shining aura that could cut through the greatest darkness. Yet the Sword Hermit's aura was even greater still, and even more controlled. And unlike the brilliant light of the Radiant Blademaster, the head of the Eight Leaves seemed to exist in a great nothingness, but it was a calm and soothing nothingness that Ezra found relaxing.

"Actually, I'm coming off a bit of a sabbatical, So my skills aren't exactly where they should be. Master Victor had told us you were coming to train at our school. Needless to say I couldn't bear to stand on the sidelines while my fellow students reaped the benefits." He let out a small cackle. "Of course, I got lucky and managed to meet you guys here! Talk about an act of the Goddess." The alarm announced the departure of the train to Celdic. The four quickly made for the train, not wanting to be left behind.

(Five Hours Later)

Despite all the locations Class VII traveled to for their field studies, Legram had been Rean's favorite. Not just because it was Laura's hometown, but because of the history that surrounded the rustic heart of the Arseid Viscounty. Already the sensation coming from the higher elements washed over him as they came down the steps of the Legram railroad station. He side-eyed his companions, seeing that Emma and Master Ka-Fai were also feeling the power radiating over the entire town. The witch seemed a little anxious, but the master was calm. Ezra seemed the most at ease with it, not surprising since he was a native.

Ezra stretched, looking up through the misty sky toward the lake and Lohengrin Castle. "I always find myself looking out there, just a reminder that I've come home." He led them through town. Rean took in all the familiar sights of Legram. He first laid eyes on the Bracer Guild office, wondering if Toval was there or was out on a job. The church and the general store seemed more or less normal. The ever-present mist over the lake just completed the scene. In all, the town of Legram was as tranquil as could be at that moment. "I can't wait for Laura to hear that I got to meet you guys early. She's going to be so jealous!"

"Ezra Gwyn Kanitz!" The tranquility was shattered by those three words that stopped him dead in his tracks. Ezra groaned as he saw an older couple, a man and a woman, standing at the steps leading up to the Arseid Training Hall and Manor House. The woman was quite attractive in her own right, with long raven black hair framing a porcelain-hued face, and purple eyes knitted together in visible fury. She wore dark slacks and a white button-up shirt under a black sweater with an expensive pewter brooch pinned on the side. Her thick sandal heels clicked on the cobblestones as she marched up to him, folding her arms. "Young man you are in so much trouble!"

"Hi, Mom." Ezra offered weakly to Yesenia Kanitz, his loving and livid mother. "Uh, so you found my note? That's good." He scratched his head as his mother continued to glare at him. So, he quickly shifted gears, trying to puff himself up some. "Hey, I at least let you know I was going to Roer in the first place, and I even found out a couple of things about Aunt Wakana. That's a good thing!" However, Yesenia was unmoved. "Oh, come on, Mom! I know you've wanted to know what happened to her just as much as me. I took the initiative for once. You can cut me a little slack, right?"

"That's besides the point, son." A low gravely voice responded as Geralt Kanitz, Ezra's father approached. Cutting a tall imposing figure with a pair of swords mounted on his back, his attire was much more rugged than Yesenia's. A quilted jacket in deep reds, trimmed in brown, and topped with armored shoulder guards. Deep green pants and steel-covered boots like Ezra's on his feet. His stark hair was a perfect contrast to his wife's ebony locks. His jade green eyes matched his son's showing his own disproval, "Your mother was worried sick when she came home and didn't find you. Called me off a monster extermination contract hysterical. Took me two hours to calm her down."

"Yes sir," Ezra replied dully, knowing this was a battle he couldn't win. He groaned, turning to Rean. "Why don't you go up and meet with Viscount Arseid? I'm going to be roasting over an open spit for a while." The black-haired swordsman looked at his new friend concernedly, but Ezra held up a hand. "Don't worry about it. This is not the first time, and it will not be the last. Don't let it ruin your day. I'll speak to you later." He sighed, following his parents with the grim footfalls of a death march.

Rean and Emma gave a silent prayer to Aidios for their new friend, instead following Master Ka-Fai up the stairs. The broad structure of the Arseid School Training Hall was a familiar sight for them. The sounds of the apprentices training hard filtering through. Rean wondered if Laura was in there training as well. He would find out later. The trio kept walking up until they reached Arseid Manor, overlooking the entire town. Emma grasped the heavy iron knocker and banged it three times. The door swung open, and Klaus emerged. "Ah, Welcome back to Legram, Master Ka-Fai!" He bowed deeply. "Lord Arseid is waiting for you."

They were ushered inside. The carpets and drapes were all in the rich blue tone that Legram was famous for. "Wait here for a moment and I will send for His Lordship." He walked up their stairs, posture as rigid and unmoving as ever, heading to the right where Rean knew Victor's study was located. Klaus came back out, bowing to the three. "Presenting His Excellency, Viscount Victor S. Arseid of Legram."

He couldn't help but crack a smile as the Master of the Viscounty of Legram stepped out of his office and onto the landing, making his presence felt by all. It was just as he remembered, Victor S. Arseid's aura of power was brighter than ever. Although Master Ka-Fai's was just as prominent, if not a little bit more. He walked down the steps, his expensive blue coat flapping behind him with each step. The Radiant Blademaster and Sword Hermit greeted each other as old friends with a deep handshake and a brotherly hug. "Welcome back, Yun! It's good to see you again."

"As it is to see you, Victor. This place is as inviting as ever." He spread his arm out. "Let me introduce you to my charges. This young lady is Miss Emma Millstein. She's the granddaughter of an old friend of mine. I promised to watch over her while she's touring the Empire."

"We're glad to have you here, then," Victor said, gently taking her hand and giving it a delicate kiss, causing Emma to start blushing. He was every bit the gentleman that a noble should be. "I'm sure my daughter Laura will be happy to meet you. She could use more female friends her own age."

"It's an honor to meet the Radiant Blademaster," Emma said, marveling at how strong Victor really was. But his strength was tempered by wisdom and compassion. "I'm happy that I could be present, even I'm not a swordsman as Master Ka-Fai and Rean are."

"But you are a welcome addition regardless, my dear." The Sword Hermit said, he then put a grandfatherly hand on Rean's shoulder. "And this young man is the main reason we are here. This is my third apprentice, Rean Schwarzer. He's something special, Victor. The boy has the greatest potential for growth I've ever seen. If Rean keeps his training up, I have no doubt he will leave Cassius and Arios in the dust, and I don't say that lightly." Rean squirmed a little. He had heard of the strength of both the Divine Blades of Steel and Wind, and the idea of being in that league was humbling.

Victor nodded in approval. "That's a very high bar to reach. I remember that duel I had with the Divine Blade of Wind a few years ago. We were evenly matched. Perhaps once young Rean's training is finished, he would be able to take me on."

"Coming from one of the strongest warriors in the whole of Erebonia, I would welcome the day when I could cross blades with you on an equal footing." Rean in turn bowed to Victor, his own noble training coming to the forefront. "It's a true honor to meet you, sir. As Master Ka-Fai said. I am Rean Schwarzer, son of Baron Teo Schwarzer and Heir of the Barony of Ymir. Thank you so much for giving us this distinct honor to train with you and your students. We will be in your family's care." It was then the door swung open, and the sweetest sound in all of Zemuria kissed the Ashen Awakener's ears.

"Father, we're back!" That voice, gentle as a crystal bell and strong as iron forged in the hottest fire was something that would never grow old. Rean didn't even need to look over his shoulder to know who was speaking. But he did so anyway, wanting to gaze on the girl of his heart. A part of him wasn't surprised to see Laura S. Arseid in a swimsuit, a black one-piece with blue piping, revealing a pair of long, smooth legs, toned by years of practice. If not training her skill with the blade, then of course she would have been down at the lake swimming. A towel hung around her neck.

What did surprise him was the girl standing next to her. The other girl was also wearing a swimsuit, a one-piece colored a deep rich royal blue trimmed in white. The girl's hair was covered by a swim cap the same shade of blue as her suit. She seemed rather flustered if the way she was blushing and nervously clutching the inner tube around her waist was any indication. Laura was far more composed but still surprised. "Oh my, I didn't know we had visitors." She exclaimed at seeing the new arrivals. "Forgive our appearance. My cousin and I were down at the lake enjoying a swim."

Victor took it all in stride. "Not at all, in fact you showed up at the perfect time. Girls, let me introduce you to Master Yun Ka-Fai, his apprentice Rean Schwarzer, and their friend, Miss Emma Millstein." Laura and Rean instantly locked eyes with each other. Everything about her face was just as he remembered, lovely in every way. Kindness was reinforced by deep resolve in her eyes. She never needed much to look beautiful, and he wouldn't have it any other way.

Rean boldly approached Laura, taking hold of her hand, relishing it how red her face was getting. "It's nice to make your acquaintance, Lady Arseid. I've heard you're as skilled with a blade as your father. So I'm eager to test my mettle against you in the coming weeks." He ever so delicately kissed it. "In addition, I did not anticipate you also being incredibly beautiful. Clearly, you get your good looks from your mother."

Phoebe gasped, hands coming up to her face to hide her reddened cheeks, but she smiled, happy that such a fine gentleman was interested in her cousin. Emma giggled quietly, knowing by now how important Laura was to Rean. On the other hand, for the Arseid Heiress, images of her dream from weeks prior bubbled back up. If this young man's hair and eyes were a different color, they would be a perfect match for the warrior she saw, wreathed in brilliant azure flames. The way he regarded her almost seemed familiar, but Laura didn't want to jump to conclusions since she wasn't that kind of woman.

"Thank you for the compliment." She finally said, wishing her the heat in her cheeks would die down some. Rean was a fairly handsome man, and his kindness was a plus as well. "I'm not used to having people compliment my beauty when I first meet them. But I won't turn such kind words down." Laura stood up a little straighter, and Rean could see her competitive spirit come to light. "But besides that, I'm also eager to cross blades with you. Father has shared much of the Eight Leaves school with me, but I find it's better to experience such things firsthand. Don't you think?"

Rean smirked; the challenge already accepted. "You do learn a lot about people by fighting them. I'm sure some interesting truths will crop up in our duels. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised."

Chapter Text

Disclaimer: See Chapter 1

Another Roll of the Dice

by Storm Wolf77415 and Centurious the Azure

Chapter Four: Castle Mysteries

(Viscounty of Legram, April 28^th, 1203 of the Septian Calendar)

     It had been a week and a half since arriving in Legram. The days had flown by very quickly, and training with the Arseid students was now in full gear. Master Ka-Fai and Viscount Arseid wowed everyone with a brief but spectacular duel, showing the pinnacle of their respective schools. They were moving at such speeds it was difficult even for the likes of Rean, Laura, and Ezra to follow them. They were just barely able to get faint glimpses of the two masters as their blades intersected each other. Suffice it to say the applause from everyone lasted a good few minutes, so impressive was the match.

     It motivated all the students to give their all if just to approach the level of their teachers just by a small amount. So it was the trio of Rean, Laura, and Ezra who had taken to sparring with each other every day. As such the daughter of the Radiant Blademaster and the third apprentice of the Sword Hermit were currently engaged in their latest match. Klaus served as the referee. Laura leapt up to launch an Earth Cleaver, but Rean was quick to respond with a Crimson Slash, before vanishing with Gale.

     It was only thanks to her own sharp reflexes that Laura was able to parry away Ashen Void with Brynhildr, and considerable strength that she could swing her massive claymore to try and get at her opponent. She went for a Brilliant Spin, but Rean beat her to the punch with a Helix. Laura flipped in the air to avoid it, landing in a crouch. “Well played, Rean! Your bladework is a true sight to behold.” She lunged at him, only for him to sidestep her.

     “As is yours, Laura.” Rean brought his blade up to his usual guard position, his gaze never breaking with the Arseid Heiress. “You swing that blade with incredible strength, and yet your footwork carries such poise and grace.” Laura’s smile was so worth seeing. It felt great to be able to spar with her again, Memories of another life flashed in his mind. It hadn’t taken long for him to get in touch with her rhythm again. They moved as one, blocking and parrying the whole while. It was almost as if he could read her mind.

     “I’m no expert with a sword, but I can’t deny how captivating the two of them are right now.” Emma figured she should be used to having seen Rean and Master Ka-Fai practice a few times while on the way to Legram. But now that he had a multitude of opponents to face, it was clear that Rean’s potential to be a master swordsman was near endless, and Laura was just as much as prodigy, coming from such a rich lineage of genuine knights didn’t hurt either.

     “It’s almost like they’re dancing a waltz.” Phoebe was in awe at her cousin’s movements and how well she synchronized with Rean. She still remembered how bold the young Eight Leaves warrior had been with Laura, complimenting her beauty. Phoebe was one of the few people who knew that her cousin, despite her prodigious skill with a sword, was very insecure about her femininity. Rean’s words had given Laura much more confidence in herself as a woman, and for Phoebe that was a good thing.

     “They’re still not on the same level as Master Ka-Fai or Master Victor, but they’re still exceptional in their own right,” Ezra remarked. As confident as he was in his own skill, this reminded him that Laura was his equal for a reason. He found himself just a tiny bit jealous at how well Rean handled his blade. His technique was rough around the edges, but he was still far above the average blade slinger. The fire in him grew even more as he saw Rean perform an Autumn Leaf Cutter, only to be rebuffed by Laura’s Armor Breaker. They were near their limits if the way both were breathing heavily was any indication.

     “That’s enough!” Klaus suddenly announced, his arm in the air, indicating the end of the match. “Master Rean, Lady Laura, both of you have clearly pushed yourself to your limits. I think it’s best to consider this match a draw. Take some time to rest before the next bout.” Phoebe produced a tray containing a pitcher of water and glasses which both of them readily accepted. It was cool and refreshing.

     “I call the next bout!” Ezra was quick to stake his claim. He had already crossed blades a couple of times with Rean. He had one win and one loss, and he was looking to make it two to one. Rean and Ezra had formed something of a friendly rivalry, and Rean actually found himself enjoying it. Ezra clearly showed great interest in the Eight Leaves, having pelted Rean with questions about it on the first day of their training. He hadn’t expected to basically explain the entire core tenets of his style to his new friend, but it did help Rean and Ezra bond.

     Feeling refreshed, Rean walked back onto the training floor with Ashen Void in hand. Ezra followed; his own sword strapped on his back. It was a well-made blade more than the equal of Laura’s, but with patterns of brilliant flame red instead of blue. The two warriors raised their blades in salute to each other, before looking to Klaus. The aging butler again raised his hand in the air, before bringing it down, signaling the start of the bout.

     Ezra quickly closed the gap. His blade flashed with a brilliant blue glow. He swung his blade in a horizontal arc, trailing blue light behind it. Rean met Ezra head-on, Ashen Void’s blade glowing brilliant crimson. It was something he had come up with after facing this technique a couple of days prior, a variation of the Eight Leaves’ Sixth Form, instead of letting the energy loose in a blazing crescent, he kept it contained within Ashen Void itself. The two blades, roiling with energy, connected, and created a golden flash.

     This wasn’t enough to faze Ezra. Such flares of power were common whenever he sparred with Laura. He grinned; the match was getting fun now! Rean raised his sword overhead and flames erupted to life along its whole length as he performed a Flame Impact. But Ezra merely leapt back to avoid the worst of it. The heat washed over him as his hair whipped about by the wind thrown out. Rean lunged at him with Gale and Ezra had to act quickly to deflect it. Both blades flashed in the morning sun as they intersected. “You’ve got some major skills, Rean! You’re like Laura. One of those rare talents that comes by only so often. I mean that truthfully!” Ezra swung upwards diagonally, only for Rean to block it downward into the dirt. “Of course, it also helps you have an exceptional master to train you!”

     Rean grunted as they locked blades once more. “Right back at you! Your talent isn’t minuscule either, you’re easily a match for Laura, and you had just as an exceptional teacher.” Ezra nodded in acknowledgment. “Viscount Arseid’s reputation is well known to me and the chance to be here is one I won’t soon forget.” Visions of a duel against the Radiant Blademaster in another time and place and words of great wisdom echoed in his head. He went for an Autumn Leaf Cutter, but Ezra responded with an upward slash of his own. For both boys, this was something that had practically become hardwired into their souls, something they knew so intimately they could do it in their sleep. Their bodies did the work while their minds drifted to other things. 

     For Ezra, it automatically went to his aunt. The things he learned about Wakana from Kasane and Naomi in Roer had given him answers while opening up all kinds of other questions. Why had she been called to Roer in the first place? Had she gotten off the train somewhere between there and Legram? It just vexed him to no end. So caught up in this torrent of thoughts that he made an elementary mistake. He took his eye off Rean for just a second. The Ashen Chevalier wasn’t about to pass up such an opening and used a Gale followed by an Arc Slash. Ezra’s eyes widened in shock and took the attack full on, sending him down to one knee, his sword falling from his slack fingers.

     “That is the match!” Klaus barked. It took a few minutes for Ezra to register he had lost. The image of Wakana smiling at him just before departing that last time was still stuck in his head. Before he knew it, Rean was over him, hand outstretched. He subconsciously took it and was pulled to his feet.

     “Are you okay?” Rean asked worriedly. “You zoned out there for a minute, so I just took the opening.”

     “Uh, yeah.” Ezra finally found his voice. “It’s fine. Just bad timing on my part.” He cursed inwardly for letting such things get in the way of a sparring match. Laura and Phoebe both gave him sad expressions, both having a good idea of just what could have thrown Ezra off balance like that. Both girls knew all too well of what effect Wakana’s departure had on him. He gave a short bow to Klaus. “I think I’ve had all the swordplay I can handle for one day, Master Klaus. As for you.” He looked to his opponent, some of his former bravado returning to cover up his real feelings. “You got lucky today, Rean. Rest assured it won’t happen again.”

     Rean wasn’t buying it. He had seen that act far too many times for his own taste when someone was nursing wounded pride. Clearly, it wasn’t just Ezra’s pride, but something deeper bothering him. “If something is wrong, I’d be willing to listen.” He offered, having come to see his fellow swordsman as a friend and thus wanted to be there for him. Both Laura and Phoebe found their respect for Rean go up a couple more notches.

     Ezra gave a tired smile. “You’re all heart, Rean. But it’s nothing you need to worry about. We all have our off days; this was just one of mine.” He gave a slight wave, and walked out of the training hall without a further word. Rean just watched him leave, about ready to follow him when a hand on his shoulder stopped him. He looked to see Klaus, giving him a comforting smile.

     “Just leave him alone for right now, Master Rean. Master Ezra has been dealing with a deep personal loss for the past year. It affected him so much he didn’t even want to pick up a sword, much less practice it anymore. It was actually because of your arrival that he found a reason to start his training. But still, the disappearance of Lady Wakana is a deep wound for him. However, I am glad to see that you’ve come to consider each other friends. Master Ezra’s needs all the support he can lean on right now.” Rean looked to Phoebe and Laura for answers.

     “It’s not our place to say, Rean. If Ezra feels up for telling you about it. He will in his own time.” The Arseid heiress was quite certain that her childhood friend would certainly open up to their guest in short order. “Changing the subject. I have something that you would find most intriguing.”

     Phoebe cleared her throat. “Emma has shown interest in exploring Lohengrin Castle. Normally the place is off-limits, but Uncle Victor has given us special permission to explore it, on the proviso that he and your own master accompany us.” She beamed widely, the anticipation evident in her eyes. “I’ll admit I’m just as excited about it myself. History has always been one of my favorite subjects. So, the chance to actually be able to set foot there is something that I’ve wanted to do my entire life!”

     “I’ll admit I’ve felt something about that place calling me. I wasn’t sure if Viscount Arseid would allow it, but I’m glad he’ll be coming with us.” Emma said.

     Rean’s thoughts on the matter were far more divisive. On the one hand, he still remembered what happened when he and the rest of his team entered the castle during their field study, and encountered the Nosferatu. The undead specter had taken everything they could throw at it and then some and still had plenty to face them. It was only thanks to the intervention of a mysterious rescuer that they managed to prevail against that ghastly spirit. A part of him wasn’t all that eager to go traipsing through there, even with two master swordsmen like Victor and Master Ka-Fai with them.

     But on the other hand, Rean knew both the Sword Hermit and Radiant Blademaster could make short work of the Nosferatu, and a part of him really did wonder what kind of mysteries the castle actually held. It would certainly make a good way to gauge how much better their training had made all of them. It was then that Rean thought of something. “Is Ezra allowed to go with us? I’m sure he’d welcome the distraction from whatever is troubling him.”

     “I think he would enjoy it as well.” Emma piped up.

     “Of course! We were planning on inviting him anyway.” Phoebe clapped her hands together, clearly delighted at the upcoming trip. “In that case, it will be myself, Laura, you, Ezra, Emma, Master Ka-Fai, and Uncle Victor. I think that party can handle any surprises that may be waiting for us.” Rean still wasn’t sure about exploring the castle, but seeing Emma and Phoebe’s faces convinced him that if anything bad did happen, He would be ready with his steel to protect and defend those he cared about.

(Later That Night)

     Ezra growled as he chucked another rock in the lake. He wasn’t angry about losing the match itself. Laura had batted him around plenty of times when they were younger, and he gave back as much as he took. It was the discussion he had a few nights prior with his parents when the night he returned to Legram.

     “I can’t believe it! Of all the irresponsible things you could do!” Yesenia knocked back a whole sifter of very expensive brandy as she stormed around the living room. An angry glare was on her face, as she wiped her face. “It wasn’t enough that you went to Roer without permission to search for Wakana, but you had the audacity to go into her room and look through her personal effects!” Ezra just responded with his own sour glare, a perfect mirror of the woman who had raised him, punctuated with a pronounced roll of his eyes. “Oh, don’t think I didn’t see that young man! I know that you miss your aunt, but this has become an unhealthy obsession!” 

     “Missing someone close to me isn’t an unhealthy obsession, drinking that much at this time of night is an unhealthy obsession!” Ezra shot back at her. “Two years I’ve wanted to know what’s happened to her, but neither of you.” Geralt remained unmoved from his place on the couch. “Want to say anything about it! I’m sixteen years old, and I’m not an oblivious child anymore! You, both of you, I might add, encouraged me to never be content with just sitting around and waiting for the answers to come to me. Oh no! You said if you want the answers to something, go out and look for them yourself! Do the leg work! Put in the time! It will come to you, and I did just fucking that so I don’t see why you’re both pissed off!”

     Geralt sighed. He understood how his son felt, he really did, and thus resigned to play the part of peacemaker between his wife and his son. “Look, it’s no secret that Wakana was important to all of us.” Putting a special emphasis on the last part. “But let’s be realistic here. She was a shrewd woman who knew how to cover her tracks really well. If your aunt wants to stay hidden, she’ll have gone to every length possible to ensure she stayed hidden. The best thing you can do is just move on. It is probably what she would have wanted anyway.”

     “Wow, Dad great advice. Are you sure guidance counselor is part of the Bracer job description?” Ezra snarked to which Geralt just gave a muted grunt. He looked to Yesenia, who had poured herself another shot of brandy. The bottle was a third empty, and she started to look a little sloshed. “Mom, at the very least hear me out about what I learned in Roer. Her old employers called her for some urgent matter, and she never made it back. It wasn’t just a whim that Aunt Wakana left. Something happened, and she never made it there. Certainly, that has to count for something? Enough to re-open the investigation so we can dig deeper?”

     Yesenia knocked the whole thing back in a single gulp. “No, it is not enough to reopen the case file! The investigation was closed and sealed by Viscount Arseid himself. He is the lord of this land, and his word is law. In other words, It’s a moot point, mister. Wakana Sumeragi is gone, and she isn’t going to come back. So, live with it!” She stomped out of the room in a fury. Geralt just gave Ezra an apologetic glance before following his wife to try and calm her down.

     “Stubborn old woman!” Ezra thundered as another rock went flying into the water. Like a lightning flash, his anger subsided immediately. He sighed. “Maybe she’s right though. Aunt Wakana was always the slippery type. Even if I did eventually track her down, there’s no guarantee that she would come back even if I begged her to.” It was the truth, even if he was doing everything to deny such a truth. Wakana was her own person, and it was selfish to think he’d do it just for him. “Maybe this whole thing was just a colossal waste of time, and I should just move on with my life.”

     “Do you really believe that?” Training and instincts flashed to life. Ezra had his blade out, to see The Sword Hermit standing there, hands behind his back. The old master just let out an amused chortle as he walked up to Ezra, gently pushing his blade aside. “Good reflexes. All the time you’ve spent training with Rean and the others has served you well. But it means nothing if you let your mind be plagued by negative thoughts and insecurities. Your mind should be as placid as the waters of this very lake on a calm day. The minute you slide out of that mindset, then your enemy has already won.”

     “I’m fully aware of that, Master Ka-Fai.” Ezra did his best to sound respectful, but the frustration seeped through. The older man put a gentle hand on his shoulder. “But the whole thing with my Aunt Wakana is something I just can’t let go that easily. Both of my parents say it’s a dead issue and that I’m just wasting my time trying to track her down. I’ve tried to make them see reason about it and not give up on her. But it’s like talking to a brick wall. They won’t act on it at all. I feel so lost.”

     “Then you can’t give up.” He made it sound so simple. “If your aunt is truly such an irreplaceable fixture of your life, you must make that your whole reason for living. Leave no stone unturned, as the adage goes. You must be vigilant, and dogged in your search. Track every lead and follow every clue. The path lies ahead of you, but you must be the one who takes that first step and travels it to the very end. Now I can’t guarantee it will have a happy ending, but at the very least you’ll be able to find closure. Don’t do it for those who so easily dismiss what’s in front of them. Do it for yourself.”

     Ezra’s hands clenched as he tried to bite back the tears. Now this was exactly what he needed to hear. Yun smiled, patting him on the back. “I see much of Rean in you. He too carries his own burdens, and isn’t usually the type to share them with others. He is getting better about that though, but he still has a long journey ahead of him. It’s clear you two have formed a close bond, I encourage you to deepen that friendship with him and it will benefit you both. Help him to carry his own burden, and he will carry yours in return.” The Sword Hermit yawned and stretched. “Well, it’s getting late, this old man is going to get some rest, and you should as well. A good night’s sleep does wonders for clearing the mind.”

     “Wait a minute, Master!” Ezra stopped him in his tracks. He looked the older man in the eye. “My aunt’s disappearance made me not want to pick up a blade ever again. But since I learned you were coming to Legram. That passion has come back to me, and having sparred with Rean and getting to know him better. I realize that alone isn’t enough for me. So, I ask of you Master Ka-Fai.” Ezra bent at the waist, bowing low. “Please take me on as one of your students! I want to learn the ways of the Eight Leaves, One Blade School in full. I want to become a better swordsman, and a stronger man so I can search for my aunt, and let her see how I’ve grown when I find her at last.”

     Fear, desperation, and especially hope was in the young man’s eyes as he slowly brought his head up. Yun pulled out a small sake bottle, and gave it a good long chug. He belched once and smiled wide. “Okay!” Ezra’s face lit up. “I would never turn down a talent such as you. Rean would certainly welcome a fellow disciple, and between us.” He leaned in. “He needs a little motivation from time to time, but don’t let him know I said that.” Ezra chortled, as Master Ka-Fai’s face became firm. “That being said, my training is not to be taken lightly. I will push you and push you until you reach your breaking point and then beyond because that is where you find your true self. Get a good night’s rest, because we start at 4 am sharp, do not be late.”

     “Of course, Master!” Ezra was uplifted. He wasn’t going to despair. Wakana wouldn’t want him to anyway, and now he had a new path to power, a new way to become strong. He stayed at the lake for another half hour before heading back home. He didn’t want to disappoint his new teacher after all. So it was that Ezra stood beside Rean in the morning, much to the latter’s surprise. The sun was rising over the castle, its light giving the lake an orange luster.

     “So, what is this about?” Rean asked, noting the wide grin on Ezra’s face. Yun simply pulled out his sake bottle and took his customary drink.

     “Ezra has asked to become my newest apprentice, and I said yes.” The Sword Hermit replied matter of factly as he pocketed the bottle. He produced a curved wooden sword which Ezra gingerly took. “He has shown interest in the ways of the Eight Leaves, and we both know that he’s quite talented with a blade. Ezra will become your brother disciple, Rean. I expect you to help me out with his training. You learn a lot about yourself when you’re teaching another.” Rean didn’t even need to consider it. He had become fast friends with Ezra, and if this was a way to help him with his issues, why wouldn’t he?

     “Then, in that case, I welcome you as a fellow disciple, Ezra.” Rean outstretched his hand, which the Eight Leaves’ newest student accepted readily. The beginnings of a strong bond were now forming. “Here’s to many days of training together. Have you decided which sub form you like the most?”

     “The Third Form, Karmic Flame it’s called?” Ezra’s grin just grew wider. Rean could see the inferno dancing in his eyes. “Yeah, that one. I’ll go ahead and admit that I’m a total pyromaniac. So I think Karmic Flame fits me quite well.”

     “Truthfully the Third Form is one I use more than others, so I can give you some pointers in that department.” Master Ka-Fai watched with quiet pride as his two students began swapping ideas. He had a feeling this new arrangement would work quite nicely. He also made a mental note to make a couple of phone calls later in the day. It had been a long time since he talked with some old friends.

(Lake Ebel, May 4th, 1203 of the Septian Calendar)

     Rean was very happy that he didn’t get seasick as the boat chugged across the waters. Today they were going to explore Lohengrin Castle. Victor was at the helm, looking every bit like a good captain should. While Master Ka-Fai’s attention was currently taken up with his newest apprentice. Ezra was a veritable sponge in soaking up the Sword Hermit’s teachings, and was currently determining the best way to get the best spin out of his Helix strike. Emma and Phoebe were chatting excitedly about what discoveries awaited them, even if there was some kind of danger waiting for them. As for Laura, she was looking stoically across the lake, her ponytail whipping about in the wind.

     Laura turned to see Rean looking right at her, and smiled at him before going back to look at the water. It was a memory the Ashen Chevalier would forever burn into his mind. That smile was for him alone. He caught a smile from Emma out of the corner of his eye. She had seen their little quiet interaction. “We’ll be arriving soon at the castle!” the Radiant Blademaster’s voice cut through the moment and ever became much more alert. All of Rean’s senses were sharper than ever before, that familiar feeling the higher elements of time, space, and mirage gave off were heavier in the early morning air than they had ever been before.

     The boat gently bumped up against the dock and the party stepped out. “Before we go any further, I’ll go through the official warning. I know everyone here is a very capable fighter, but regardless there is no telling what we will find within the castle’s walls.” Viscount Arseid was his usual regal self, but now his voice was laced with stern authority, proof of his status as a noble of the land of Erebonia. “We stick together and remain on guard at all times. Do I make myself clear?” His authoritative gaze swept over everyone present. Not that anyone was going to try dispute it, Rean especially, knowing what was within the walls.

     The seven adventurers hiked up the sweeping hills before arriving at the ornate doors of the castle itself. The pull of the higher elements was at their zenith at that moment. Both Emma and Phoebe were the ones most affected by it. “I’ve seen this castle so many times before, its majesty is never lost on me. I could feel its power, but I never really took into account what that power was or where it came from now that I’m staring it in the face.” Phoebe had a new respect for the place so connected to her blood, as she gazed upwards toward Lohengrin Castle’s majestic spires.

     “It shouldn’t come as any surprise, dear niece. The Eisenritter did have a small contingent of mages in their ranks in the latter parts of the war.” Victor said as they entered the front entry hall. His was hand on Galland-Sharl. “A few of them even went so far as to marry steel with the power of the arcane. Those mage knights were said to be some of the most fearsome combatants amongst Dreichels’s forces.” A few spectral creatures approached them. Victor just smirked and with a flick of his wrist sent a wave of brilliant golden energy out that rented them asunder.

     Rean smirked, most of the creatures in the castle were pretty nasty as he recalled, but with a couple of powerhouses like the Viscount and his master. He didn’t think it would be an issue.

     “So, what exactly are we looking for here?” Ezra looked upward to the vaulted ceilings of the entry hall. So far it all looked pretty mundane and boring to him. “Is there specific that caught your eye, Phoebe?” He looked at the girl in question who seemed zoned out. “Phoebe?” Ezra became worried, walking up to her hurriedly only for her to hold up one hand as an ornate-looking staff appeared in the other.

     It was painted in the blue colors of the Legram Viscounty, a series of ancient runes carved into the handle. It was topped by three quartz crystals and Emma recognized them as belonging to all the higher elements, Time, Space, and Mirage. Phoebe held her staff up, and the crystals started glowing prominently. “Something is here.” She whispered, before chanting under her breath. “Something ancient and very powerful.” Her head snapped up. She quickly ran over to an area under the steps. Her staff came to life. Clearly, Phoebe had found something. Her hands and her staff gave off a slight blue glow, and to everyone’s surprise, a series of glyphs appeared on the wall.

     Emma was amazed at her apparent knowledge of spellcraft. She looked to Rean, who was equally surprised. She quietly sidled up to him. “Did this happen the first time around? Is this where you found that Nosferatu?” to which he shook his head.     

     “No, the orb containing that thing is upstairs.” He pointed in the direction for emphasis. “This is all just as new to me.” The Ashen Awakener hadn’t expected Laura’s cousin to pull out something like this, who was clearly entranced trying to piece together what the glyphs were hiding. And it looked like she was struggling to decipher it. He gently nudged Emma in the side. “You know what, I bet she could use some help with whatever it is she’s found.” He already had a suspicion of what Laura’s cousin was and if so then having another true magic user on their side would only benefit them.

     Emma went over to the wall with Phoebe and pulled her own staff out. The two shared a slight smile and began unraveling just what it was Phoebe had found. Emma wished she had Celine to aid her at that moment, she really did miss her familiar. Perhaps a letter to Rose was in order. Celine would probably find the entire scenario hilarious. A glowing circle of purple light appeared underneath Emma, purple light began radiating off her. The glyphs suddenly flashed and shattered, dissolving off the wall as the stones and bricks came away revealing a staircase leading downward. “No way!” Ezra couldn’t believe his eyes as the party looked down in at the steps leading into the inky blackness.

     Rean took a deep breath and began walking down. He looked over his shoulder. “You guys coming?” He quipped and smirked a little. To which Master Ka-Fai and Ezra both smirked themselves. It wasn’t long before they descended these strange stairs to whatever lay within the depths of the castle and beyond. For some reason he felt a sense of familiarity seep into his heart, it was almost deja vu in some way and not because of the field study from the first time around. Clearly, there was something about this place that called to him on a deeper level.

     “Uncle Victor, there was never anything mentioned in the family records about there being any kind of caverns beneath the castle was there?” Phoebe asked conjuring up a light so they could see where they were going. Emma was trying to keep stride with Rean, walking faster with every step, clearly something about this place had triggered something in his head and he was going to find the answers as quickly as possible.

     “No, and nothing I ever read in the Eisenritter Chronicles either, and I know both sets of them cover to cover. This is indeed quite the find.” The Radiant Blademaster wasn’t the type to be surprised easily but even his curiosity was piqued about what could be found. Ezra said nothing, but his mind was working on the fact that there were even stairs there in the first place. The stairs kept going down further and further with no sign of stopping. Before they could see what looked like a pair of double doors at the bottom of the stairs. Ezra and Rean pushed the doors, and they swung open, a cold gust of air rushed through. It was musty and foul smelling, like a grease trap after being emptied.     

     Emma’s eyes widened at what the doors contained. “It’s a library!” She exclaimed with almost childish glee, running inside with Phoebe on her heels. The room was circular, covered in bookcases eleven shelves high, and filled with books and scrolls. For the witch, it was like being in a candy store. Phoebe was equally delighted, her eyes lit up in pure joy. This was exactly what she was looking for. The two of them circled the room, eyeing the numerous tomes on the walls.

     “Most of these probably have never seen the light of day in centuries!” Phoebe said, clearly having found her new favorite place in all the world. Rean may not have been the bookworm Emma and Phoebe were, but a part of him was curious about looking through the contents of this collection for himself. But it was then he felt that familiar sense again. It was then he caught sight of another pair of double doors identical to the ones they had just come through, the higher elements radiating heavily.

     “You girls might want to hold off on your browsing.” The girls looked up as he slowly approached the doors. “Because I think the real prize is behind these doors.” Every single one of Rean’s senses pulled him toward the door with a near-mechanical gait. His hands came up to the twin iron handles and with a single heavy shove, threw them open. Emma gasped and Phoebe’s hands came up to her mouth. Ezra’s jaw fell open at the massive, cavernous room twice the size of the town of Legram itself. A ceiling rising beyond any of their vision, and what appeared to be the crumbling remains of a massive labyrinth as the centerpiece. “It’s just the same!” He whispered to himself.

     Everyone strolled into the chamber, taking the whole thing in. Rean slowly walked toward the narrow bridge that led to the stony maze itself. “This is inconceivable!” Laura exclaimed. “To think such a place would exist beneath the castle like this. I may not be as well versed in the lore of the Eisenritter as you are, Father, but I would think the discovery of a giant cavern such as this would have warranted a major entry within the chronicles. The Eisenritter scribes are usually so meticulous in their record keeping.”

     “Indeed, my daughter. Although I’m sure they had their reasons for keeping the cavern a secret.” The Radiant Blademaster commented, his gaze going to Yun and then to the labyrinth.

     “I think calling it a mere cave would be doing this spread a massive disservice, Master Victor. I mean come on.” Ezra knocked his fist against the smooth alabaster stone walls. “No natural cave would have walls like this! And what about that thing?” He indicated the labyrinth itself. “This place is manmade, someone constructed all of it. That’s the real question that needs to be answered. Who built this place and what for? That’s what I want to know.”

     “Perhaps it was a secret training ground for the knights of the order?” Master Ka-Fai offered, taking a swig of his sake. “They wanted a place to hone their skills in private and so hollowed out the crag the castle sits on. That way the Eisenritter could train away from the prying eyes of their enemies. The labyrinth certainly lends credence to that theory.” He then caught sight of his apprentice still rooted to the beginning of the bridge. Silently noting this was probably old hat to Rean.

     The Ashen Awakener was rooted to where he stood before the bridge. His eyes closed in deep concentration as he felt the mystical energies of the higher elements swirl around him. All the while memories of a specific time and place ran through his mind, Memories of running through a series of corridors beneath an old schoolhouse, where an identical aura ran through the air. “It’s exactly the same.” He said again. “I’m sure of it!” A hand on his shoulder made his eyes snap open and he found himself facing Emma and the rest of his companions.

     “Are you okay?” She asked.

     “Yeah, I’m fine,” Rean replied. The only ones who knew the whole story were the witch and his master, and while he was confident in bringing Victor into the mix, he didn’t want to play his hand just yet. He cleared his throat. “This labyrinth, there’s power here. I can feel it.”

     “He’s right.” Phoebe said, her staff out again, the quartz crystals glowing once again as she flared her own power. “The maze seems to be the source of it all. Clearly there was some powerful relic being kept here.” Everyone’s gaze fell on large monolith at the center of the maze, and it was clear what their destination was going to be.  

     “I suppose we’ll have to navigate the labyrinth and see what lies within.” Laura drew her blade, the dim light catching off Brynhildr’s edge. “It should be quite challenging to our skills.”

     “Or…we just could walk through the big gaping hole in the wall?” Ezra quipped, gesturing at where a hole large enough for a train car to pass through sat, and they could see an identical series of holes in every following wall, leading all the way to the center of the maze. “I mean I know you like to test your limits, Laura. But I think this would be a whole lot more practical. I’m just saying.” This made Phoebe and Emma giggle. Master Ka-Fai let out an amused snort through his nose and Victor just gave a slight smirk at the young man. That was one thing about Ezra, he always had a clever remark handy.

     Rean said nothing, but he was glad for the dry humor, it helped him to keep his wits about this place. The party tentatively entered the shattered maze. No surprise it was full of monsters, but with the strength of everyone present they were a minor issue. It’s just like being in the old schoolhouse at Thors all over again. It doesn’t quite work the same way, but the architecture and the general feeling are all the same. He thought to himself, helping Laura take down a pair of large lizard-like creatures.

     “Are you holding up well, Rean?” He never got tired of listening to her voice. Even when she was cleaving a monster in half it was so pleasant. Laura’s competitive spirit had ignited since entering the maze. This was truly a great test of her skill, and she loved every moment of it. “I must say this is quite the discovery!”

     “You’re not wrong about that, cousin.” Phoebe launched a Luminous Ray into a score of goblins that were leering at her in a way that she didn’t like. “In fact, I think I may have put together the purpose of this facility. Master Ka-Fai’s remark about it being a training ground for knights may be closer to the truth than you think, and it would explain why this place isn’t mentioned in the records of the Eisenritter.” There was a knowing gleam in the art user’s eye, one that made Rean think she had put it all together. “Are you familiar with the legends of the Deus Excellion?”

     “Are you talking about the Divine Knights?” Ezra piped up, excitement coloring his tone. “You think they had a connection to this place? If so then I can definitely see why it was left out of the chronicles. If word got out that a Divine Knight was kept here, this castle would have been sieged by every army in existence.”

     “What exactly do the old legends say about these Divine Knights?” Rean may have known better than anyone the truth behind those stories. But he had never really paid that close attention to them. “You clearly know quite a bit about them, Ezra.”

     “What can I say? It’s one of my favorite tales. I mean what kid doesn’t like the idea of giant mechanical knights? Aside from that, they’re mostly passed off as mythical figures, fighting battles in the shadows whenever internal conflict erupted in the Empire. Sometimes as destroyers that burned everything that came in front of them and other times as protectors against great threats that would have left Erebonia a dead land. The Lance Maiden, Lianne Sandlot, is very prevalent in some of those latter stories.” He paused for a moment to tap his chin. “It makes me wonder if she knew something about that Divine Knight.”

     “But what purpose could the labyrinth serve?” Laura asked, beheading a nasty-looking basilisk. while Phoebe used Golden Sphere to bombard more of the fire-breathing lizards from earlier. “I suppose it would make a decent defense, but any halfway capable group of warriors could traverse it and claim the Divine Knight for themselves.”

     “It’s not just to protect the machine. It’s a test as well.” Rean finally spoke up, getting everyone’s surprise. He gave an idle shrug. “I’ve heard a couple of stories of the Divine Knights myself. It’s not enough to just claim the power of a Divine Knight, you have to prove yourself worthy of it. At least that’s what I’ve heard. I imagine if we traversed the labyrinth properly there would be trials to overcome, puzzles to solve, and so forth.”

     “I imagine there’d be some giant monster at the end we’d have to fight as well. It wouldn’t be a labyrinth if it didn’t have that.” Rean laughed inwardly at Ezra’s comment, knowing just how right he really was. The party finally reached the last gaping hole before the center. A massive pillar made of finely polished granite reached into the darkness above. Both Emma and Phoebe were very taken with the large sliding door made of the same heavy stone, or rather the complex glyph on said door. But before the girls could start any kind of detailed observation, Rean had pushed them behind him, Ashen Void out and ready.

     “Rean?” Emma asked worriedly when she noticed the glyph started glowing and the air rippling in front of them as an ethereal violet light shimmered into existence. She produced her orbal staff as Phoebe did the same.

     “Crap, that whole thing about the giant monster was just a joke!” Ezra grimaced, pulling his own blade out. Laura was milliseconds behind him, and Victor and Master Ka-Fai were primed as well. The air continued to ripple, and the violet shimmer split off into three points of light. Eventually forming into a trio of towering beasts, they all had the same basic humanoid shape, but one was short and stocky wielding a massive axe, the other tall and thin holding a sword and shield, and the last one could only be called a hulking dump truck with the biggest lance any of them had ever seen.

     “Magic Knights.” Rean was now extremely grateful that his master and the Viscount were present. Even if the whole of Class VII, Phoebe, and Ezra included, fought just one of them it would have been an uphill battle, but a trio of them? Wasn’t it just lucky they had some heavy hitters of their own on hand? The Sword Hermit and Radiant Blademaster could easily each take one of them, and indeed both masters looked excited. It wasn’t often they got to really flex their full might, and thus Yun helped himself to the squat knight on the left, while Victor brandished Galland-Sharl against the right-side creature. Rean was sure they could both handle themselves.

     In the meantime, the five teens arrayed themselves against the central knight. Rean stood in the middle with Laura and Ezra flanking him, and Emma and Phoebe a short distance behind. “We’re going to have to put this strategy together fast, so listen up. Laura you’re the physical powerhouse here, it’s going to be up to you to keep him occupied.” He found it natural to slip into the leadership role, given that he had engaged in plenty of battles with Laura and Emma during their school days. “Ezra, you and I will take any openings we can and chip away at him.”

     “Understood,” Laura said, her knight’s pride shining through. She had no problem being the tank of the group. 

     “Ha, Easy enough!” Ezra smirked, taking a ready stance. “I’ve heard Magic Knights are pretty tough customers. Time to see if they really live up to that hype!” Despite his cocky demeanor, Rean knew that Ezra was no weakling. He was equal to Laura in skill and the minimal training he had in the Eight Leaves ensured he could hold his own. And a Magic Knight would be a perfect way to put those newly gained skills to the test.

     “I’m ready to heal anyone who’s needed and I have buffs on hand,” Emma said. Her staff flared with a brilliant purple light. It was comforting to Rean that Class VII’s resident witch hadn’t let her training slide. Emma swirled her staff around, mana radiating off her.

     Phoebe said nothing, merely brandishing her staff in hand, the light of the quartz on top flashing with color. She was the one that Rean wasn’t sure of but given her discovery of the entrance to the labyrinth, it was clear that she was on par with Emma, skill-wise. In fact, it was the blue-haired mage that started the proceedings. “Hands of Time spin, whiling blades rend my enemies’ very spirit asunder, Soul Blur!” there was a grayish flash of slight, and three whirling discs of energy flared into existence. With a wave of her staff, the orbal art flew straight and true, slamming into the Magic Knight’s armored chest.

     Rean and Ezra took that as the signal to begin their assault, opening with an Autumn Leaf Cutter and Flame Impact respectively. Ezra was still a little clumsy with the technique, but he swung with all he had, the flames surrounding his blade, cutting across the beast’s armored thigh. And Rean augmented his Leaf Cutter with Helix, allowing himself two nasty cuts along Magic Knight’s shoulder, a greenish blue miasma leaking out. The creature roared, thrusting its lance forward, looking to impale Ezra, but he just barely avoided becoming a kebab.      

     Emma was quick to follow her fellow spellcaster’s lead, chanting her own spell. “Majestic light of the moon, devastate my enemies with your silvery touch, Luminous Ray!” A brilliant silvery-white light lanced out from her staff, taking a chunk out of the Magic Knight’s shoulder. Laura gracefully swung across the beast’s lower legs, making it stumble. Rean took this chance to throw out a Crimson Slash, but the Magic Knight batted it away like it was nothing. The magic golem spun its weapon, a sizable cyclone forming around it. It pointed its weapon at the sky, and the entire party found itself buffeted by gale-force winds.

     Phoebe and Emma shrieked as they tried to keep their skirts from blowing up before they were knocked off their feet, and Laura planted Brynhildr on the ground to steady herself. The creature roared again, a golden aura surrounding him. “Looks like he just got pumped up!” Ezra was crouched low, managing to avoid the worst of it. The maelstrom faded and Ezra pounced, his trusted blade in hand. “Horizontal Square!” His voice rang out, his blade gleaming as azure energy traced the form of a rhombus in the air, slashing across the beast’s torso once again. A spray of spectral blades slammed into it. Emma was quick to regain her footing and came in with a surprise attack.

     Rean launched a Gale at the beast, striking from multiple directions madly slashing the entire time. Only to find the Magic Knight’s lance right in his face. Time seemed to slow for him. “Hands of Time spin, the scythe of the reaper claims those whose time has ended for, Demonic Scythe!” Phoebe’s voice rang out. A wicked, ornate scythe materialized, spinning rapidly around the massive golem, before slashing upward, thus giving Rean an opening to escape. The Magic Knight stumbled, its armor dented and with several holes. But there was still quite a bit of fight in the beast.

     “Armor Breaker!” Laura leapt up swinging her blade with all the strength she could muster, doing all she could to keep this behemoth off balance, battering the titanic golem. Rean was close behind, using Autumn Leaf Cutter and Ezra pulled out his own version of Laura’s Brilliant Spin. The Magic Knight then let out an angry roar, lightning arcing along the tip of its lance. The weapon was pointed to the sky and a bolt of lightning shot upward. Clouds formed and lightning bolts flashed in them. It was clear this was a big move that was meant to wipe them all out very quickly. 

     Emma’s staff flared, “Majestic light of the moon, shroud us in your protective veil!” She uttered; glowing spheres of silver light surrounded everyone. Her shield spell went up at the perfect time. Lightning bolts of different colors stabbed downward. But thanks to Emma they avoided the worst. The attack was reflected back at the Magic Knight five times over. Ezra capitalized on its stricken state. His blade flashed and he swung it overhead, cleaving off the tip of the knight’s lance. 

     “We got it on the ropes! Let’s put this thing down!” Ezra declared. He could smell the blood in the water, and it was time to finish this up. The party regrouped; they would not be denied a victory after coming this far. Ezra led the charge with Laura at his side. they swung their swords downward at the same time, angry red crescents of light flying outward. Rean slammed his blade back into its sheath. “Fifth Form, Morning Moon.” He whispered. “Luminous Void!” He swung, letting loose a silvery blade of energy, that would put the glow of the moon itself to shame. The attacks hit the Magic Knight from three directions, taking huge chunks out of the beast’s armor.    

     “Majestic light of the moon, let the hand of the mighty emerge from shadow and strike down evil from on high, Claimoh Solarion!” Emma and Phoebe both uttered, holding their staves to the sky. The skies darkened opened and a pair of giant hands poked through, letting loose larger, stronger versions of Luminous Ray, bathing the Magic Knight in the potent light of the moon, its armor smoked and burned, and the charred piece of metal that was once its weapon clattered to the ground.

     “Time to finish this!” Rean yelled, holding Ashen Void with its blade downward, flames sparking to life. “Flames gather around my blade!” Laura’s eyes widened when he took that pose and uttered those words. Rean launched forward, swinging his fiery sword multiple times across the titan. “Flame Strike!” The brilliant fires of the Ashen Awakener’s soul grew with each consecutive slash. Recovering from her shock. Laura followed suit, Brynhildr wreathed in a brilliant light, and a blade of light jutted out. Leaping in the air and Holding her blade to the sky, Laura S. Arseid slashed downward, cleaving the Magic Knight in half. It let out a pained roar before vanishing in an aura of purple light, even as her father and Master Ka-Fai did the same to their respective adversaries, dissolving in the same violet haze.

     “Nicely done! I’ll admit I’m surprised it took you that long.” The Sword Hermit quipped as he sipped his sake.

     “Oh, come off it, Master. We downed that thing mere seconds after you did!” Ezra shot back.

     “But those seconds could make all the difference, Ezra. I’m sure I taught you that.” Victor sheathed Galland-Sharl.

     Ezra just shook his head. “At least we kicked that thing’s ass.” He said, flexing his hand. “I’ve still got a long way to go.” The battle against the Magic Knight had taught him a few things. He had sparred against Laura enough times, they knew each other’s moves pretty well, and even when Phoebe had gotten involved, he was confident fighting alongside both girls. What really surprised him was how well Emma and Rean flowed with the three of them as well. It was a good thing their teamwork was so solid because Ezra knew he would have lost if he had tried soloing the Magic Knight. If anything else, it provided him with a good measuring stick for his current skill.

     “Let’s fall back to the library for now. Those Magic Knights were tough, and I don’t want to imagine if this place can conjure up anything worse than that.” Victor said, looking at Emma and Phoebe. “Besides I’m sure the girls want to examine those books further.” They both lit up at this. The entire party retreated through the holes and back to the library. The two girls wasted little time wading in to explore the myriad volumes. Rean found it kind of cute how they scurried about, holding the books and scrolls contained with the deepest reverence.

     “It’s going to be nigh impossible to extract the two of them from this place,” Ezra remarked, watching the girls gathering piles of books on the table. “I suppose I can’t judge them for being happy. Nothing wrong with picking up a good book or two to read.” 

     “Improving yourself mentally is just as important as physically. After all, a strong body means nothing without a strong mind to guide it.” Laura proclaimed. “A good plan can make all the difference in combat.”     

     Ezra couldn’t deny that at all. Neither could Rean. “We shouldn’t let the girls have all the fun then. We may find something that catches our fancy as well.” With that, they started searching the shelves as well. Victor and Yun looked on.

     “Ah, always good to see the next generation actively searching out knowledge. It proves we’ve done our jobs right.” the Sword Hermit sighed contentedly as he nipped a drink.

     “I’ll have to put in a request to the guild to send an archival team down here. This should be preserved for all time.” The Radiant Blademaster wasn’t the type to boast of his accomplishments, but the discovery of the library and its contents was a nice little feather in the cap.

     “I found something!” Excitement colored Phoebe’s voice. Clenched in her hands was a large tome with a thick cover, colored a dark midnight blue color, almost pure black, the edges and spine trimmed in gold. She slowly opened it. “Oh, Emma look at this!” Her fellow magic user came up and they started perusing it together. Delicate fingers ran over the runes displayed and the delicate script outlined what each rune meant. “I think this is some kind of spellbook.” A delighted squee escaped Phoebe’s lips when she turned the page again. “I don’t believe it! This goes into depth about the higher elements! This has never been seen before.” She hugged the book to her chest. “I think I found my midnight reading!”

     Emma giggled, “Just make sure you pass it to me when you’re done. I wouldn’t mind looking through it myself.” She had to admit, the mention of the higher elements caught her attention as well. She left her new friend to continue reading the weighty tome, and the bespectacled witch began examining the shelves, a part of her resolved to include the discovery of this place to Rose in her next letter. A part of her wondered if her grandmother had in fact been the one to seal the entire basement area off. Her eye then caught sight of a single book tucked away on a distant part of the shelf.

     “What have we here?” She said quietly, picking it up, noting the cover was a brilliant shade of blue, embossed with a majestic-looking eagle, its wings spread open and designs all around the corner in glittering silver. Emma tentatively opened the cover. “The Journal of Niobe Arseid?” She read, noting the handwriting was exactly the same as from the spellbook. Hurriedly she went to Phoebe, who had put the tome aside and was looking at some old scrolls. While Laura had found a book on the techniques originally used by the Eisenritter. “Girls, you should take a look at this. I think it belonged to the same person who wrote the spellbook.”

     Phoebe opened the cover and gasped, before passing it over to Laura, who looked equally startled. “Where exactly did you find this, Emma?” She asked, after finally finding her voice.

     “Tucked away on a shelf by itself. Who exactly is Niobe Arseid?”

     “Our ancestor.” Phoebe spoke with a deep reverence. “She was a powerful mage who fought with the Eisenritter, and trained its mage knights. She married Viscount Gavin Arseid, the second in command of the Lance Maiden. They fought together with Dreichels and Roland Vander during the War of the Lions. Our family has searched for Lady Niobe’s writings for years. The spellbook is one thing, but her journal is something else entirely! Uncle Victor look at this!” The Arseid patriarch came over. “Emma found Lady Niobe’s journal! It was down here the entire time.”

     “I just saw it by chance.” Emma blushed, not used to so much attention.

     Victor just gave a gracious smile and kissed her hand. “But still, you’ve returned a priceless family relic to us. That in itself is a huge gesture, Miss Millstein. It goes without saying but you have become a friend of the Arseid family, and you are always welcome here in Legram.”

     “Way to go Em!” Ezra clapped. Rean and Master Ka-Fai just gave approving smiles to the embarrassed young woman. While the monster attack hadn’t been their idea of a fun time. By finding the library and the resting place of the Divine Knight, they had restored a valuable piece of history. So, they could consider this trip a success.

(Viscounty of Legram, May 18th, 1203 of the Septian Calendar)

     The morning was light and clear, as the ringing of steel permeated the air. Rean and Ezra were engaged in a brisk sparring match. In the two weeks since their adventure at the castle, Ezra had sunk heavily into his training in the Eight Leaves school. Both Master Ka-Fai and Rean had been quite surprised at how quickly he picked it up. Wielding a tachi procured by the Sword Hermit, Ezra threw out a Crimson Slash at Rean, who used Gale to evade it. But then he found himself on the receiving end of a devastating Flame Impact. The heat from the downward slash left a burning sensation across his skin as their blades met in a hard lock. “You’ve gotten really good with that you know?” Rean grinned as he tried pushing Ezra’s sword back.

     “I owe it to you and the big man,” Ezra grunted, twisting out a Helix to try and keep Rean from using Autumn Leaf Cutter. The sound of steel rang again as Ezra parried Ashen Void and leapt over the Ashen Awakener’s head to try and get him with an airborne Morning Moon strike. Ezra landed in a crouch, just missing a swing from Rean’s blade. The two of them leapt back and threw out their own Crimson Slashes, both projectiles striking each other. They were about ready to go for the next round when they felt something approaching. Both of them turned, batting away the rocks Master Ka-Fai had thrown at them.

     “Bravo, Neither Cassius nor Arios was ever able to develop their senses enough to detect when I’d do that when they first started their training. They always would get too focused on the duel in front of them and lose sight of the bigger picture.” The Sword Hermit said from his seat on a large boulder. “Take a break for right now, boys. No need to burn yourselves out yet. After all, the day is young.” The fellow disciples shrugged and took the bottles of water their master provided, and sat down to catch their breath.

     Ezra’s initial enthusiasm at becoming Yun’s student had died down a bit when it was apparent that the Sword Hermit was an even stricter teacher than the Radiant Blademaster, but it was replaced by an appreciation for his teaching methods when he started seeing results. “I have to say, this is like starting over completely from the beginning for me. The Eight Leaves is just so different from the Arseid School.” His muscles burned but it was a good feeling all around.

     “And yet you’ve taken to it so readily.” Master Ka-Fai said as he took a drink from his ever-present flask. “Between Cassius, Arios, and Rean. I had always known he had the most potential for growth, but it seems you’re equally talented, Ezra. Of course, Victor saw that potential as well. Even if the two styles are disparate the basic principles are the same, so it’s not the same as if you hadn’t ever picked up a sword beforehand. Speaking of which, I contacted a friend of mine who’s a master swordsmith to forge a new blade for you. Tell me what you want for it and I’ll let him know what to do.”     

     Rean saw the excitement on Ezra’s face. “It’s almost a rite of passage to get your own blade. It’s how I got Ashen Void after all. I’ll admit I’ve come to enjoy having you as a sparring partner, Ezra. Master Ka-Fai usually only takes one student at a time, so I’ve never had the chance to face someone at the same level of skill as myself.” Ezra was about to reply when Rean sensed something. He looked over his shoulder to the trees. His eyes narrowed slightly. Which didn’t go unnoticed by either his master or fellow student. Rean held a finger up to keep them from speaking. His hand went to Ashen Void, and a playful smirk appeared on his face. “Sorry, Fie.” He whispered and threw out a Crimson Slash at one particular tree. The birds perched inside flew away in a flurry and a feminine cry could be heard as a dark figure fell out of the branches, landing in a crouch.

     Ezra’s eye widened at the young woman slowly standing up, clad in a long black jacket worn open, revealing a sleeveless turtleneck in a dark green, a white vest with pockets, and dark brown shorts showing off a fairly nice pair of legs. It also gave him a very good view of the two holstered pistols she wore on each hip. Her hair was on the shorter side, not to mention a magnificent silvery hue, gleaming in the mid-morning sun. The girl’s green eyes carried a mix of annoyance and amazement. He noticed the wide grin on Rean’s face, it was a grin of reuniting with an old friend, so clearly, he knew her. “How did you know she was there?” He finally asked.

     “Yeah, that’s what I want to know.” The girl huffed, the wind blowing through her hair. “The only other person who was ever able to find me was the boss.” A light smirk formed on her lips. “Although I suppose I should give you a couple of points for finding me in that tree.”

     “You always did have a habit of lounging in them to get a good nap.” Rean drawled, cautiously approaching her. While he was familiar with Fie, she didn’t know him, so a certain degree of caution was needed. “Hello again, Fie. You saved me quite a bit of trouble coming here. Although it does beg the question of why you’re here in the first place. Can I assume you’re here with the rest of Zephyr?” She flinched just for a moment. “I can assume by your reaction the answer is yes. So now I must know what business Zephyr has in Legram?”

     “We were called here for some kind of job, at least I assume that’s the reason.” Fie shrugged. Ezra thought her mannerisms were very cat-like. “Then again, I don’t ask too many questions. The Boss just gives us our orders and we do it.”

     “Glad to see Rutger still runs such a tight ship.” Master Ka-Fai spoke up, surprising Rean. “I’ll go ahead and say that I was the one who called Zephyr here. You did mention Miss Claussell was a jaeger in service to them.” Ezra’s eyes shot upward. This was news to him! But Rean seemed non-plussed by it all. “All I had to do was find where they were operating and ask them to come out here. I imagine Xenophilius and Leonard are still with him as well?” Fie merely nodded to which the old master just gave a fond smile. “Glad to see some things never change then.”

     “Wait master, you actually know the Jaeger King?” Ezra asked. He had heard of Zephyr and their exploits.

     “But of course, Ezra. I’ve known Rutger Claussell since we were both your age. After all, Zephyr, and my old corps, Ikaruga, have fought against and alongside each other for many years.”

     “Wait, what?” Rean asked. It took him a few minutes to put it all together. “Master, are you saying, you used to be a Jaeger yourself?” The Sword Hermit said nothing, just taking out his flask of sake and knocking back a shot. That alone was all the answer he needed.

Chapter Text

Disclaimer: See Chapter 1

Another Roll of the Dice

by Storm Wolf77415 and Centurious the Azure

Chapter Five: The Princess of the West Wind

     Rean wasn’t sure how to accept that his master was a Jaeger. On the one hand, it made total sense, but on the other hand, he could never fully envision Master Yun Ka-Fai, usually so kind and soft-spoken, if a little on the pervy side at times, as a steel cold killer. But as he looked into the older man’s eyes, he saw that it was indeed the truth. The Sword Hermit just laid a hand on his student’s shoulder. “I imagine it’s a lot to take in, Rean. But just as you have your own issues, I too have demons buried in my past.”

     It made the young Ashen Awakener cringe to think what kind of shadows were hidden in his master’s heart. Some things were best left to the imagination. Still, it made Rean’s respect for his master all the greater. Master Ka-Fai admitting his own shortcomings made him relatable. Despite his reputation, he was still a man like anyone else.

     Ezra said nothing, but he figured that even as legendary as the Sword Hermit was, he wasn’t some idealized figure. The fact he was a Jaeger didn’t surprise him either. He had to earn his stripes somewhere. His gaze then fell on Fie. She looked almost bored as they hiked down the trail. He had to admit, she was kind of cute. The shoulder-length silver hair framed a face that would be gorgeous if she smiled more.

     They soon arrived in town. Where Victor was standing in the square with two men. The first was shorter, wearing the same uniform as Fie, a sleeveless jacket revealing a pair of thick muscular arms, his brown hair tied up in a ponytail. Rean’s eyes widened slightly at the sight of an Eastern-style blade hanging at his side. The other was a walking mountain of muscle, hair turning gray, and if the first man’s arms were large, this guy’s biceps were massive, cords of muscle as big around as steel cables bulged. This man could only be the Jaeger King.

     “Well, how about that!” The older man drawled upon seeing Master Ka-Fai walk up with an inviting smile on his face. “If it isn’t the sharpest blade in the East!” The two greeted each other like old friends, exchanging a manly handshake and a light hug. “Of course, I hope you haven’t let that blade of yours get dull when chasing after the ladies, have you?”

     “Oh please! I’m still as sharp now as when I was a young lad.” Rean just rolled his eyes. The Sword Hermit replied, beckoning Rean over. “I suppose introductions are in order. Rutger Claussell, let me introduce you to Rean Schwarzer, my third apprentice. Rean, this is Rutger Claussell, commander of the Zephyr Jaeger Corps, also known as the Jaeger King.”

     Rutger gave Rean an appraising eye. “Heh, not bad, Yun! This one has talent aplenty. I can tell just by looking at him. Nice to meet you, kid.” Rean didn’t bat an eye at the older man’s rock solid grip. “If you’re one of Yun’s boys, then he’s got a plan for you. Slade, get over here!” He barked at the other Jaeger, who marched up with a confident stride and a smug grin on his face. “This right here is Slade Castillo, a recent addition to our ranks, we call him Jetstream because of how fast he is. Not to mention he rocks an Eastern blade just like you.”

     “I’m going to assume your style is not Eight Leaves. I’m sure I would have heard of you.” Rean sized up his fellow swordsman. The future Ashen Chevalier could tell straight up Slade was the real deal. Despite the arrogance in his demeanor, it wasn’t an empty bravado, but a genuine confidence in his skill.

     “You’d be correct.” Slade’s voice drawled with a faint accent Rean didn’t recognize. “It’s the personal style of my family, almost as old as the Eight Leaves.” He stroked the handle of his blade. “The commander told me he was friends with the Sword Hermit, so there was no way I was going to miss a chance to meet him.” He sent a pointed glance at the older man, who just gave a nod in reply. Rean didn’t miss it. Seth intended to challenge his master. It would be eager to see another Eastern style in action for a change.

     Fie ambled up, giving Slade a light punch to the shoulder. “Ah, here’s our Wind Princess.” He said affectionately. Despite having only been with the company for a short time, he and Fie had bonded quickly, becoming like siblings. It was then Laura came down from the manor, and instantly locked eyes with Fie. Neither of the girls said anything, simply glaring at each other while the temperature in Legram seemed to drop by about twenty degrees.

     Rean tensed, recalling how things had gone down between the two of them the first time around. Class VII’s formation had been anything but smooth, but it was to be expected when so many disparate personalities were thrown together. Jusis and Machias’s animosity toward each other had been the stuff of legends, both being so diametrically opposite to each other before settling into a vitriolic friendship, not that they would ever admit it. While the friction between Laura and Fie wasn’t nearly as vocal, the tension was just as thick.

     Laura was from a long line of knights, noble warriors who stood armor-ready with lance, sword, and shield in hand to defend their land from threats. Fie was a jaeger, some might even call a thief, who fought only for the highest bidder, the kind of threat knights like the Arseids defended others from. It was a life that Laura couldn’t comprehend, and for Fie it was natural but never considered how others would view it. So it lead to their difficulty in establishing combat links. Now they were meeting each other over a year earlier. Would this mean they would bond or would it push them apart?

     Indeed, the Arseid Heiress really wasn’t sure what to make of this turn of events. Why would Jaegers set foot in Legram, and why was father being so familiar with them? Her gaze fell on Fie, a seemingly bored expression on her face, but she could see a spark in those yellow eyes. Laura’s fist clenched, not sure what to do.

     Luckily, the elder Arseid kept anything from transpiring. “Ah, welcome Laura! We have some guests.” He motioned her over. The young swordswoman approached with tenuous steps. “Gentlemen, meet my daughter, Laura S. Arseid. This is Rutger Claussell, his adopted daughter, Fie, and Slade Castillo of the Zephyr Jaeger Corps.” The young woman bowed stiffly at the waist; Laura was really not liking the idea of these jaegers being in her home even for a minute. Her gaze flickered back to Fie every so often. She just gave her a light smile, looking like a mischievous little kitten with a new toy to bat around.

     It was then Rean came up to her. Something about him made her heart lighter. So, she let herself relax in his presence, it just felt right. He smiled at her, and she felt her face get red. “Mm, what’s going on here?” Leave it to Fie to ruin the moment, that cat smile growing by a factor of ten. “Looks like someone’s in love!” Oh Adios, did she actually come out and just say it?

     Slade caught onto this as well. “Ah! So it seems, little sister. Are you planning on building a Arseid/Eight Leaves dynasty, Master Ka-Fai? If so I’d be quite eager to see what came about of it.” Cue Rean and Laura both completely red-faced. The worst part was when the Sword Hermit himself started grinning.

     “You never know, Mr. Castillo, anything can happen. I’ve known Teo and Lucia for a long time. I can’t imagine they’d object to a union between their son and Viscount Arseid’s daughter. What do you think, Victor?” He asked the Radiant Blademaster. “I’m sure you wouldn’t object to having some grandchildren to spoil.” The scariest part was how the elder Arseid actually seemed to consider the matter.

     “Perhaps I should look up Baron Schwarzer. I hear he’s quite the accomplished hunter, that would be a good way to get to know him. You do have his contact information, Yun?” Victor looked over his shoulder to which the Grandmaster of the Eight Leaves just gave a smile and nodded.

     “Master!” “Father!” They both protested. Laura’s cheeks burned in embarrassment, although the way Rean side-eyed her suggested he wasn’t that incensed. Her dream from earlier of the boy wreathed in azure flames came back. It was then Emma and Phoebe came down from the manor house, having seen the gathering in the town square.

     “Uncle, what’s going on here?” Phoebe asked, eyeing the jaegers in her uniform. Emma looked to Rean, and then saw Fie, recalling what he had told her a couple of weeks prior.

     “Nothing to worry about, Phoebe, we just have some visitors here.” The Radiant Blademaster said. “Rutger, this is my niece, Phoebe Arseid, and Emma Millstein, a friend of Rean’s.” Castillo strode up to both girls. 

     “It seems Legram has quite the selection of beauties.” He drawled, kissing both ladies on the hand. “Nice to meet both of you. Rest assured the boss, and I won’t be here for very long. We’re just visiting some old friends, nothing more, nothing less.” He winked at them.

     “Perhaps we should continue this conversation indoors?” Ezra offered, trying to steer away from the awkward subject, although both Rean and Laura were still blushing. Victor led the entire party up to his mansion. Slade eyed the training hall for a few moments, most likely eager to challenge some of the Arseid students on their home turf before following his boss upstairs.

     “I’m sure you kids are wondering just how I became a Jaeger.” The old Sword Hermit rumbled. “Truthfully, it kind of happened by accident.” Rean and Ezra both looked at him confusedly. “Thinking about it now, I couldn’t have been much older than you boys. I set out from my humble little town in the far corner of Calvard with nothing but my sword and the clothes on my back. The Eight Leaves, One Blade School had been just an idea in my mind for years. This was my chance to make it more than an idea. I would take it out into the world and see how practical it really was.”

     “Did you start just challenging random people?” Ezra asked. “Because that sounds like something you would totally do master.” The three older men all started laughing.

     “Not totally at random. I started looking for the kind of people who like to start trouble. Which is incidentally how I met Rutger.” He indicated to the Jaeger King. Who just smirked and puffed on his cigar. “Zephyr was just a gang of street toughs in Langport back then. Thought they were all untouchable.” The Sword Hermit drank some sake while a smug grin tugged at his wrinkled old lips. “Changed their tune really quick when I leveled them all with Gale. Rutger was the only one who managed to put up a fight.”  

     “I developed a fast respect for your master. I could barely keep up with his movements, given his sheer speed. Not to mention the quickness of his blade draws. Lastly, he didn’t kill any of my boys. So I figured it was better to stop fighting and start talking.” Rutger took a fine Remiferian beer. “I told Yun that if he was going to build up his skill, best way to do that was on the battlefield.”

     “He wasn’t wrong. I needed money for food and other supplies. So, at the time it just made sense to become a sword for hire.” Master Ka-Fai’s expression was a mix speaking of wistful memories and painful experiences. “I never really wanted to be a mercenary of any kind though. I just wanted to hone my skills with the blade, but it wouldn’t mean a single thing if I didn’t have food in my belly now, would it? I did what I had to do. I fought in many battlefields all over Zemuria. Traveling from one hotspot to another. In the process, I gathered quite a few followers. That became the basis of Ikaruga.”

     “Old Yun’s combat prowess and natural charisma just gathered people to him. He didn’t have to try very hard to win them over.” Rutger puffed on his cigar. “Helped he was one of those types known to spare his enemies when they couldn’t fight anymore, even offered them a place within Ikaruga. It made him very popular.”

     “Their reputation was well known in the eastern part of the continent.” Victor spoke up. “It piqued my interest enough that I went and sought them out when I was but a young man. My father, the previous Viscount, had always been my benchmark of strength with a blade. I felt no one could match him.” Laura nodded in agreement, having been told many stories about her grandfather. “You can imagine my surprise the day he told me of a warrior who could equal his strength in combat. It wasn’t something I could wrap my brain around, so I decided to see for myself.”

     “I recall how you brazen you were in marching into our camp that day,” Yun smirked, recalling the then young Arseid heir, so fresh-faced looking at him defiantly. “I decided to indulge you when you took on one of my best men. I couldn’t deny your skill when you overcame him, and the potential that still lay within. You have excelled, Victor, and I have no doubt your daughter will continue the legacy.”

     “Oh yes, I have the greatest pride in my Laura. She’s a natural, but there’s much she still must learn.” Victor looked to his daughter, who seemed quite moved at her father’s words. It was then the Radiant Blademaster took note of Fie, sitting with her usual bored look. “I’m sure you’re equally proud of young Fie here. I can see you dote on her much as a parent would, Rutger.”

     This made her perk up as the King of Jaegers puffed his chest out. “Yeah, I’ll admit she wasn’t much when I found her. But she’s not that little scrap I picked up all those years ago either. I’m sure she’ll blossom into a very lovely young woman someday.” Castillo smirked at that as well. Fie wasn’t sure how to take it. He folded his arms. “That being said, I wouldn’t mind her being away from the battlefield. She deserves a chance to just be a kid.”

     Fie was about to open her mouth to protest when Rean spoke up. “Fie would be more than welcome to remain here for a while.” This caught everyone’s attention. He looked to Laura and Ezra in turn. “I’m sure she’d enjoy hanging around some people her age for a change.” His gaze fell back on Fie. “Of course, the choice is ultimately hers. Choice is a precious thing, if I may use one of your favorite lessons, Master.” The Sword Hermit snorted, glad to see his stubborn apprentice had been paying attention after all.

     “You should really consider it, Little Sis.” Castillo implored Fie. “I have the feeling much fun could be had around this place. It would be a travesty to miss out on it.” He flashed a gaze at Rean, clearly the older man could sense something was off about the whole thing, but he would rather see how it played out.

     “It would be nice to have you here with us, Fie. Viscount Arseid’s students certainly would be thrilled to take on a real Jaeger.” Rean knew this was manipulation of the worst kind, but he knew the Princess of the West Wind all too well. Fie was as much of a challenge seeker as Laura was, despite how she may hide it behind her usual mask of apathy. No way would she turn down an offer like this. He then noticed how Fie was looking directly at Laura. The Arseid heiress met her rival’s gaze, neither backing down.

     “You know what? It may be worth hanging out around here after all.” Fie took out one of the gunknives Rean knew so well, idly spinning around her finger, before pointing it right at him. “Especially if it means I get a rematch against you. I owe you for scaring me out of the tree earlier after all.”

     Rean laughed. “Sure, I suppose I owe you that much.”

     “Then it’s decided then!” Rutger’s big meaty hand slapped the table. “I can rest a little easy knowing my little girl’s here with you, Yun. I trust ya enough.”

     “Let me ask the big question of you, Master Ka-Fai. Why did you walk away from the Jaeger life?” Slade asked, something that many were wondering now that the Sword Hermit’s past was known.

     “Because forming and running a jaeger company was never what I intended to do with my life.” Yun replied solemnly. “I never planned on becoming a leader of men, watching as they went off to die. The lifestyle can and will wear you down.” Both Rutger and Fie could agree to this. “I had lost sight of my first love, practicing my craft and honing my skill with the blade. So I decided to be smart and leave while I still had the ability to do so. I left Ikaruga in the care of my best man, Kouzo Mitsurugi, and became a wanderer. I headed south to Liberl and met a promising young chap named Cassius Bright.”

     “And the rest was history,” Rutger said, all too familiar with the story himself. “It was a shame to see you leave the battlefield, Yun. But you knew when it was time to step back. I respect that about you.” He looked to Slade, his eyes brimming with anticipation. “You may as well make your request of the old man now, Jetstream, I know you’ve been waiting since we got here, and this will be your last chance to do so.”

     The young swordsman stood up, and bowed to the Sword Hermit. “If it’s not too much to ask, Master Ka-Fai, I would be honored to have a duel with you. The reputation of the Eight Leaves, One Blade School is known all over, and I’ve long sought to test my blade against it. If you would do me the pleasure, I’d be very grateful.” His eyes narrowed slightly, and Rean could see the desire. He then looked to his master, and the old man simply smiled, standing up, Konoha Kurohachi in hand.

     The challenge had been made and accepted. Everyone quickly hurried to the training hall. The other apprentices quickly cleared the floor to let the young warrior, and the master take the stage. No one was going to miss this. The two men stood opposite each other while Victor was in the center as referee. “This will be a one-point match, whoever strikes the first blow is the winner.” The Radiant Blademaster held his arm out, looking to both combatants.

     Slade drew his weapon, Rean’s eyes widened at sight of the Jaeger’s blade, colored a deep blood red. “This is the Murasama, a blade passed down in my family for generations. It’s yearned to taste the steel of the Sword Hermit.” He raised his blade into a ready stance, holding it one-handed over his head. “So let’s not deny it any further, shall we, Master?”

     The old hermit of blades just snorted, drawing his own weapon. “Very well then, Lad. But I’ll warn you, many thought they were ready to cross blades with me.” His face turned firm; his brown eyes hardened like a pair of smoky quartz. “Many of them didn’t live to tell the tale, sadly.” Kurohachi Konoha came up as he assumed his own opening stance, it was rock solid and firm with no openings that Rean or Ezra could discern. A silence filled the room.

     “Begin!” Victor barked as his arm came down. Slade moved with a speed that Rean could barely grasp. He saw the crimson gleam of Slade’s weapon swinging upwards at his master, but Yun parried it away, swinging his own blade at the young mercenary’s face. But Castillo’s smirk never faded. The Murasama spun in his hand, knocking Kurohachi Konoha away while going in for a slash at the Sword Hermit’s arm, but the old master pivoted on his feet, the tip of the angry red blade just barely avoiding it. Emma winced at how close it was. Laura put a reassuring hand on the witch’s shoulder. She knew both men wouldn’t push it too far.

     Rean mentally took a moment to break down what Castillo’s style was about. It was a simple technique, hard hitting with an emphasis on powerful moves backed up by surprisingly light footwork that gave him a blistering natural speed that Rean himself could probably only manage by using Gale. He was pretty sure his master already knew this, given how he was playing a defensive game and digging in hard, blunting some of his speed’s efficiency. “Impressive, isn’t he?” Fie sidled up next to him. “Slade may be the most recent addition to our ranks, but he’s quickly become one of our best enforcers.”

     “He’s certainly fast, no doubt. And that’s his all his own natural speed. I’d dare say he’d even give you a run for the mira in that department.” Rean recalled many times that silver blur had taken out whatever threat Class VII faced that day. “I’d need to use one our own techniques just to keep up.”

     Fie folded her arms. “Children of the Steel Wind, that’s what he calls the two of us. Being that speed is one of our main draws in combat, he says that ties us together. Slade’s made it a point to look out for me.”     

     Phoebe bit her lip as the two blades locked, metal creaking as they strained against each other. “Impressive speed, Lad. That footwork is second to none.” Yun commented. They exchanged a quick flurry of swings. “I recall hearing about some young hotshot swordsman who brought down a hit squad of ten Cartel hitmen all by himself. They called him Minuano. You by chance wouldn’t know anything about that, would you?” He gave a knowing smile to the younger man, who just smirked wider.

     “No one else! They called me Jetstream, because I’m a wind that slices all my path to pieces!” He charged again at the Sword Hermit. The red blade primed to strike once more, slicing in an X pattern, which Yun promptly blocked. He struck back with Gale, followed by an Arc Slash, the crimson arc of light hurtled toward Slade, only for the younger swordsman to run straight at the projectile, cutting it in twain. Something neither Ezra nor Rean expected to occur. Whatever this technique Slade was using was clearly a big move. The scarlet blade flashed with a bevy of strikes. The Sword Hermit merely stepped back, effortlessly blocking every single one of them. Phoebe gasped in surprise. Even Fie seemed uncertain of what had just transpired, but Rutger certainly didn’t seem surprised, nor did Victor.

     Kurohachi Konoha swung once more, and the Murasama went spiraling up into the air, before he deftly caught it with his free hand. Silence once again ruled the entire training hall. “This match is over! Master Ka-Fai is the victor!” The Radiant Blademaster declared. Muted clapping started coming from everyone present. But Slade paid it no mind. He didn’t look upset at all, just resigned. He soon found his prized blade held out to him by the old master. The man known as Jetstream took his blade back and bowed to him.

     “Well fought, Master Ka-Fai. I can see you truly are the real deal. That right there was the Nine Headed Cerberus, made to strike at every sword zone.” There was a new degree of humility in Slade’s voice. “You managed to block every strike of my strongest charge attack. I understand that despite my skill I still have a long way to go.”

     “We all continue learning even when you get to my age.” Master Ka-Fai’s voice was firm but gentle, having slipped into teacher mode. “If you don’t mind my honest opinion, I’ll point out what you did wrong. You got too impatient toward the end. I get the impression you like finishing your fights quickly, right?” Slade just nodded as he sheathed his blade. “Nothing wrong with ending a fight with a single move, it’s practical in its way. But sometimes the smart thing to do is try to wear your opponent down, let them waste their energy, and then go for the final strike. Don’t be afraid to play the long game sometimes. It will lead to victory.”

     “I will certainly keep that in mind, Master. I hope next time I’ll be a better fighter and we can have a rematch.” Rean secretly hoped he’d be present for that clash. Perhaps he should consider challenging Minuano himself, once he had honed his skills a bit more. Slade had unknowingly given the Ashen Chevalier a new benchmark to reach.

     Rutger took one last puff of his cigar before putting it out in the ashtray. “This was all very exciting, and I was happy to catch up with you guys again. But Slade I better get back before the boys tear everything apart.” He stood up, stretching his massive frame. “You know how Leo and Xeno can get when left to their own devices for too long.” Slade snickered. The Jaeger King patted his princess on the shoulder. “Enjoy the time in Legram, Fie. I really think it will be good for you.”

     “Just keep in touch.” Laura heard the concern in Fie’s voice as he kissed her on the forehead. Despite being hardened mercenaries, it was clear how much Fie and Rutger loved each other. This helped her to see that despite their chosen profession the Claussells were a family just as she was with Phoebe and Victor. In that moment she found herself doing something unexpected, coming up from behind to put her hands on Fie’s shoulders.

     “You can rest assured that Fie will be well taken care of, Mr. Claussell. That is my word as Heiress of House Arseid.” Fie craned her neck up to look at Laura, who merely smiled gently at the younger girl. “I’m not sure what kind of food you receive on the battlefield. But perhaps you’d enjoy a home-cooked meal for a change? I can assure you Klaus is a master in the kitchen. He can make you anything you want.” 

     “I suppose there’s only so many ways you can eat spam,” Fie remarked, this got some laughs because it was a thing only Fie would say. Rean felt a small degree of triumph. While Class VII was still not an official thing yet, it was now that much closer to becoming complete. This was a small but significant victory in the Ashen Awakener’s eyes. His gaze fell on Emma, looking content to see a new addition to the fold, and then to Laura. Maybe it was time to pull back the curtain and tell her the truth?

(June 2nd S. 1203, Arseid Training Hall)

     With Fie now in the group, Rean wasted no time integrating her into training with the others. She and Rean were currently engaging Fie and Ezra in a two-on-two match. Fie was still as fast as he remembered, and her agility was almost superhuman as he launched an Arc Slash at her. The Princess of the Wind leapt over him, even using his shoulder as a steppingstone, before landing behind him to take a few potshots with her gun daggers. He was quick to come at her with a Gale, but she met him blade to blade.

     She threw a kick at him, but Rean twisted his body to the side to evade it, the tip of Fie’s left dagger swinging mere rege from his face. Not that he would let that intimidate him. Movement came out of the corner of his eye, and Laura entered the fray, her sword swinging downward, only for Fie to parry it with her other weapon. While Ezra made his presence felt with a well timed Flame Impact, he really was making the third form of the Eight Leaves his own. 

     “Here I come, Rean!” The column of flame loomed down on both him and Laura. But the two were prepared. Laura used her Radiant Spin to dispel the attack, and Rean rushed Ezra with Autumn Leaf Cutter, only for Fie to get in between them. A flurry of bullets rattled out of her gunswords. But Rean was able to evade it with judicious use of Gale. Laura showed incredible flexibility in how she used her blade as a shield to defend herself from the onslaught.

     “That’s enough for now!” Master Ka-Fai’s stern voice brought the match to an abrupt end. He stood on the sidelines with both Emma and Phoebe. “Let’s get some lunch and we can resume afterwards.” Rean was grateful for the break. Master Ka-Fai had really accelerated both his and Ezra’s training after the match with Slade. The day was warm and inviting, and the sun reflected off the lake. As they departed from the training hall, some movement came out of the corner of Rean’s eye.

     He turned slightly, hoping no one noticed and caught sight of a small dark form dart behind the corner, just catching sight of a blue silk ribbon attached to a long tail. Rean’s eyes widened but he said nothing. He put a hand on Ezra’s shoulder. “Hey, can you guys go ahead? I need to talk to Emma about something alone.” His fellow disciple just gave him a confused look. “Don’t worry it’s nothing major. I just to discuss something with her. We won’t be long.”

     Ezra shrugged and followed Phoebe, Fie, and Laura up the stairs to the manor. Master Ka-Fai looked at his apprentice, but merely nodded slightly and left the two of them alone. “Emma, we have a visitor.” The witch wasn’t sure. “You can come out now, Celine. The others are gone.” She gasped at the sight of a black cat that came trotting out from the shadows. “I’ll admit it’s been quite some time since we last met.”

     “Apparently so.” The cat spoke in a light, melodic voice. Celine  “I’m surprised you were able to detect me so quickly. But then again, if you were trained by Master Ka-Fai, it would be easy to pick even me up.”

     “Celine!” Emma squealed, picking up her familiar in her arms, and began stroking her fur, which elicited a contented purr from Celine. “Oh, I have missed you!” 

     “I’ll admit I’ve missed you too, Emma.” Celine trilled, relishing Emma’s delicate fingers rubbing against her belly. “It was starting to get real boring hanging around Eryn with only Rose for company. Suffice to say, I was more than happy to come and see you when your grandmother ordered me to bring you back home.” This made Emma’s fingers lock up. “Oh yeah, I probably should have led with that.”

     “Why does grandmother need me to return to Eryn?” Emma knew she’d have to go back eventually. But right now? Already her mind was starting to think of the worst-case scenario. “Has something happened? Did something happen with the Septian Veins?” The young witch’s mouth was about to move as quickly as her brain, but Celine quickly reached up to lightly bat at Emma’s face. It was something she often did to calm her down when she was younger.

     “Oh, don’t even start!” Celine snapped, before wiggling out of Emma’s arms and landed gracefully on the stairs, and spoke quieter. “Everything is fine. Rose hasn’t found anything going on there. She’s taken that time to draw up a new training regimen for you. There’s some new, very advanced spells she wants you to learn, Chop Chop. That’s all it is.”               

     Emma hesitated for a minute. She hadn’t expected to enjoy this journey so much. She had gotten to see the world outside the isolated forest Eryn Village was located in. Not to mention making her first real friends her own age. Phoebe had become a kindred spirit for her given their shared love of history and books. The idea of leaving her future classmates now wasn’t very enticing. Only for the Ashen Chevalier to put a hand on her shoulder.

     “Go with her, Emma.” Rean finally said. “I will miss having you with us on the next leg of our journey, but if there is a chance for you to get stronger presents itself, I say go ahead and take it. We’ll be fine, and you can always join us later.” He then leaned in close so only she could hear him. “But let me suggest that you make perfecting your teleportation spell a top priority. We will need it down the line.” The events of October 30th, 1204 were prominent in his head, and knowing the others would be able to make a quick escape from Trista would put him at ease.

     Emma’s eyes watered and she cried softly, before giving Rean a light hug. He gave her a reassuring pat on the back to let her know that he was fine with her going back home for a while. “We should probably let the others know that I’m leaving. I don’t want them to wonder about me.” She smiled happily, glad that there was a chance she could hook back up with them later. “Thank you so much for letting me be part of this, Rean. I’ll be sure to study diligently and be ready for next March. You have my word on that.”

     Everyone was greatly saddened by Emma’s departure, but Rean knew this was just the beginning of the next leg in their journey. One that would eventually end with all of them together in Trista. Besides, he now knew that he’d have a new traveling companion in Fie. Losing access to Emma’s magic was a inconvenience, but in its place was the sheer speed and combat experience of the young silver-haired Jaeger. The issue now was telling Fie just what the Gehenna was going on. He knew that despite her lazy demeanor, the Princess of the West Wind was far more perceptive of such things than she would ever let on. Then again, Fie was just chill enough that she would probably shrug at the whole-time travel thing say “huh, neat” and then saunter off to find a new place to nap.

(June 20th, S. 1203, Legram)

     Not that three of them were leaving town anytime soon. It would still be a couple more weeks before they departed for Bareahard. Where they would try to win over Jusis, which would prove to be far more difficult. The scion of the Albarea family wasn’t exactly the open-minded type. Until then, there were still a couple more matters to settle in Legram first.

     It wasn’t like Rean and Fie could leave anyway. Because not more than two days after Emma and Celine’s departure. Master Ka-Fai himself left town, citing that he had some personal business to tend to. Rean took charge of Ezra’s training in that time, helping him iron out the rough edges in his technique. The two had bonded even closer in that time. It made Rean think of Crow a little bit, wondering where his Azure counterpart was at that moment and what he was doing. In all likelihood he was at the races, some things never changed. They were taking a short break after a very intense sparring match.

     “So, when you do think Master Ka-Fai will get back? It’s been the better part of two and a half weeks now and I’m starting to get worried...” Ezra knocked back some water to keep away the heat of the sweltering June sun. He had gotten a pretty good grasp on the Eight Leaves, and was finding ways to integrate it with his Arseid techniques. A part of him contemplated opening his own school to share his knowledge. The One Hundred Forms Military Combat School used by the bulk of the Erebonian Imperial Army was a mix of the Arseid and Vander Schools, the two most well-known sword styles of the empire. A hybrid of the Arseid and Eight Leaves would certainly bring in curious future students. He filed that idea away for later.

     “Oh, ye of little of faith, my apprentice.” Both boys turned to see the man in question standing there, holding a long thin bag that Rean recognized for carrying Eastern-style blades in his hand. He looked quite smug as he walked up to them. “As if I would ever think of abandoning my students. What kind of teacher would do such a thing?” He motioned for them to sit down. “I was gone for as long as I was because I had to go back to Calvard. Because that is where the swordsmith who forges all my students’ blades resides.” Yun pushed the package into Ezra’s hands. “Here you go, custom-made just for you.”

     Ezra inspected his new prize with great trepidation. The cloth bag was black, and adorned with a stunning flame pattern. He loosened the drawstring and revealed the work of art contained within, and about dropped it considering how incredibly beautiful the sword really was. The sheath was black on top, and the bottom was red, the edge of which resembled the telltale shape of a raging inferno. Even the tsuba resembled a tongue of flame. He unsheathed the blade, colored a brilliant red, it even seemed to glitter slightly in the sunlight. “Thank you so much for this Master!” He finally said. “It’s magnificent!”

     The Sword Hermit just patted his newest student on the shoulder. “I’m glad you approve of it. I had the swordsmith coat the blade with a special powder to give it that color. Given you seem to be specializing in Karmic Flame, and have a natural affinity for fire. I figured I’d just roll with it.” The smirk from Ezra was all the affirmation he needed. “Of course, now that you have your blade it needs one last thing, a proper name. It’s only right, given that you’re going to use it forge your legend.”

     “In that case I have just the name for it.” Ezra said as he looked into the mirror polished red finished. “I’m going to call it Urenthiel.”

     Rean whistled. “You’re not doing anything by half. That’s the name of the sword of Tiber Reise Anor, the first Emperor of Erebonia!”

     Ezra just gave a knowing smirk and a slight nod to him. “And that’s by choice. I had always looked up to him. I mean he’s the main reason Erebonia is even a thing. He managed to unify the five kingdoms and got them to work together in the first place. We owe everything we have today to that. So, I’m paying tribute in the only way I know how.” He held up Urenthiel, inspecting every inch of his new acquisition. “Feeling up for round two, Rean? I need to put this baby through her paces.” Ashen Void was out in a second and the two blades crossed, and the sound of clanging metal filled the air once more. 

     The old Sword Hermit looked on with pride as the two young men resumed their sparring with renewed vigor. “That is the privilege of being a master, watching the students grow beyond what the teacher is.” He remarked quietly to himself as the two young men resumed their sparring with renewed vigor.

(June 22nd, S. 1203, Lake Ebel, Legram)

     Rean was about to indulge in something he hadn’t had much chance to do since starting his journey. The chance to get some fishing done had been far and few between, given the expedition to the castle, Fie’s arrival in town, and helping Ezra train. This was his first opportunity to do so in a while. It was a calm morning; the sun was rising in the morning sky. The Ashen Awakener has his stool set up on the dock. His rod and reel were already deployed in the water. The fog clung to the mirror surface of Lake Ebel. While the spires of Castle Lohengrin loomed into the sky. In all, it was about as perfect a day as it could get.

     Even on the other side of the lake, he could still feel the pull of the higher elements. Their sojourn into the castle a few weeks back hadn’t diminished the aura of power and grandeur the place held. Rean wondered just how many of the castle’s secrets still waited to be discovered. Although  that was the farthest pressing issue on his mind. He was thinking about the future, namely the civil war. He had no illusions that he could stop the October War from happening outright, but nothing said he couldn’t plan for it. In fact, he had already taken the first step in encouraging Emma to train with Rose, and practice her teleportation spell.

     Rean knew he would stand a better chance against Crow and Ordine this time around. He had been piloting Valimar for almost a year, granted he would be rusty once he finally got the Ashen Knight back. But regardless he didn’t need to beat his fellow Awakener here. Just rough him enough to get him to back off. Once that happened, he’d flee back to Ymir and regroup with the others once Emma had teleported them there. It was a solid plan in his mind, but a lot of other pieces had to fall in place before they got that far.

     His mind then went to Crow himself, he wondered what the master of the Azure Knight was doing in that moment. In all likelihood, probably at the track watching the ponies. “Enjoy your time while you can, Crow.” Rean clenched his fist around his fishing rod. “Even if you did give me this second chance, it doesn’t mean I’m letting you off scot-free for what you did either!” Sighing, The Ashen Awakener went back to his fishing as the sun rose in the morning sky. The sound of splashing water caught his attention, and he saw a certain blue-haired swordswoman gracefully paddle out of the fog, doing a relaxed but strong crawl.

     It took all of his training as a swordsman not to stare too long at the beauty gliding through the water with a grace that would put a mermaid to shame. Laura locked eyes with Rean and smiled, quickening her pace as she made for the metal ladder built into the dock. She flopped down on the hard concrete, water dripping off her body. Laura wore a one-piece swimsuit colored a dark blue with purple stripes running down the sides, fitting perfectly over her slim, lithe body. While Emma was far curvier in some aspects, Laura made up for it with a toned, athletic build honed by years of sword training. But what clinched it for Rean was the smile she wore. A smile so radiant the snow of the Eisengard Mountains would never have stood a chance against.

     “Good morning to you, Rean. Could you hand me that?” She indicated to the fluffy white towel rolled up on the dock. He gladly tossed it to her as she sat on the edge of the dog, and beginning to dry her hair. “Looking to get some fishing done?” She watched him reel the line in, trying to stifle her amusement at the mock dismay on Rean’s face at the empty hook he held in his hand. “It doesn’t seem the fish are biting today.”

     “Eh, it’s not that big a deal,” Rean said, casting the line back into the water with a muted plopping sound. The familiar concentric rings rippled out across the water before it settled back to its mirror calmness. “Not like I can’t catch something later. And to be honest, sometimes it’s not even about catching anything for me. It’s just relaxing and enjoying the ambiance around the place.” He gestured to the lake. “Let’s face it, this is a pretty nice spread. Easy to get lost in your thoughts.”

     “I can agree with that.” Laura spread her towel out and sat down next to Rean’s stool. The breeze felt nice as it ran through her hair. “While I love the water, sometimes I’ll just sit here and enjoy the sun.” Rean was glad he was sitting down at the moment, given how she turned and smiled at him, it made his legs weak. “So tell me, Rean. Have you enjoyed your time in Legram thus far? I must say it was certainly enlightening for me. You helped restore Ezra’s passion for the blade and helped us recover a piece of my family’s history. That alone has certainly earned you a place here.”

     “I’m glad I could help out. Both you and your father have treated us very well over the past couple of months. This place has become like a second home to me. It’ll be a bit sad when Master Ka-Fai and I have to get back on the road. But I’ll be sure to drop you a line when I can.” He paused for a minute, noting the frown on Laura’s face. “Let me ask you a question now, Laura. Have you considered where you’re going after you’re done with Sunday School?” Laura perked up, looking at him questioningly. “I’m just wondering if you’ve come up with a couple of options yet.”

     The Arseid heiress thought about this for a few minutes before finally speaking. “I’ve looked at a few places, like St. Astraia’s or East Point Institute, but I haven’t really made any solid commitments yet. What about you?” Laura cocked her head, her ponytail swaying as she did so. Rean puffed out his chest and looked up to the sky, exuding an air of confidence.

     “Actually, I already made my choice a long time ago. I’m going to Thors Military Academy in Trista come next spring. They have a very robust combat training curriculum, which I’m sure is something you’ll appreciate. I also heard they have a very nice swimming pool, so you’ll be able to keep getting your morning routine in.” Some would argue that Rean was blatantly pushing Laura down that path, but if the future he wanted to make was going to come true. He needed Laura at Thors, it was a simple truth.

     “I had considered Thors myself early on.” Laura really had thought about it, but still wanted to look at a couple more places. But if what Rean said was true, maybe she could finally hop off the fence and make a commitment. “You really think it will have everything I need?”

     “I guarantee it.” The confidence in his voice said it all. “But don’t take my word for it. Look at Thors closely, do a little research, and then make your choice then. But I’d be overjoyed if you chose to go to school there. Who knows? We could be in the same class together.” The radiance of her smile returned. And relief flooded through the Ashen Awakener’s soul. Rean would tell Laura and the rest of their classmates the whole truth in time, but in that moment, he felt he earned Laura S. Arseid’s allegiance. He wasn’t in any hurry to enter a relationship with her, but this was a good start. He resumed his fishing while Laura sat and enjoyed the sun. Neither of them said a word, merely enjoying the quiet and each other’s company. 

     Neither of them realized they were being observed. Both the Radiant Blademaster and Sword Hermit watched over their young charges from a distance. “Ah, it seems Rutger’s boy was on target. There is something between them. Not much right now, but it’s there. It must be like looking into the past for you, old friend. Given that the two of them are sitting in the exact same spot you and Kayla did when you first met.” Yun said quietly as he sipped his sake. “I recall you telling me how majestic she was coming out of the lake.”

     “Don’t remind me. Kayla loved the water.” It would have been jarring for anyone to hear Radiant Blademaster’s voice be so quiet and subdued. As he recalled a day long ago when he met the woman of his heart. The woman he married and together would bring their beloved daughter into the world. “Laura takes after her mother in so many ways, and not just her looks. But her kindness and empathy for others.” He took the saucer of sake from Yun.

     The Sword Hermit said nothing, merely downing another mouthful of liquor. “How do you really feel about this, Victor? I mean it is your only daughter. I know how protective fathers are of what they treasure most.” He eyed the Radiant Blademaster, looking with a stoic gaze. The wind blew his coat around.

     “You are correct, There is nothing more invaluable to me than the child I brought into this world.” He bowed his head slightly. “I like to think I’ve done my best to raise my daughter as a single parent. Laura has become very strong with the blade. I know she’ll eventually surpass me in time. In that regard, I couldn’t be prouder of her. But let’s face it, there’s some areas I feel I’m seriously lacking in regarding her upbringing. Things that require a feminine touch, her mother’s touch. I’ve known many of the boys who are intimidated by Laura’s strength, and it may scare off potential suitors for her. I want her to continue training, but I also want her to be happy, and have a family. It makes me wonder if I could have done more to help her prepare for that.”

     Yun put a hand on Victor’s shoulder, knowing how sensitive an issue it came to the death of his old friend’s wife. “I’m sure Kayla knows all the effort you put into raising Laura. You raised her with a strong sense of responsibility and justice. Both of you are truly deserving of being called nobles, unlike so many of your peers.” Yun bit out that one. “As for Rean, he’s not intimidated by her strength at all. If anything, it seems to be just another thing he finds attractive about her, besides her looks.” He reached into his pocket and handed a slip of paper to Victor. “Teo’s phone number, give him a call when you have a chance. I’m sure he’d be very pleased to know that his son has found a prospective partner.”

     “Thank you. I’m sure Baron Schwarzer will be happy to an alliance.” The Viscount of Legram stuck the paper into his own pocket. “Although I’m not sure we should make anything formal just yet.” He patted Yun on the back. “We should leave the two of them alone.” Yun took one final drink, and they returned to the manor.

(June 25th, S 1203)

     So it came to pass and the time to depart from Legram had come. Everyone was gathered at the front entrance to see Master Ka-Fai, Rean, and Fie off. Ezra was saddened to see his fellow student and new friend leave. “I wish I could go with you guys. A road trip across Erebonia sounds like it could be really sweet. Unfortunately, my mother said no way.” His heart burned in silent rage when Yesenia flat-out rejected it. This would have been a golden opportunity to uncover a lead about Wakana’s whereabouts. He knew Rean and the others would understand why, but sadly it wasn’t meant to be. “I’m never going to finish my training in the Eight Leaves now.” 

     Master Ka-Fai merely smiled in that mysterious way all old sages did. “Now now, don’t get so discouraged my boy. I believe I said I wouldn’t think of leaving you out in the cold now, did I?” He gave a sly grin, as he pulled a trio of scrolls out of his backpack, passing them to Ezra. “A little going away present. Think of it as homework for you while we’re away. I’ll stop by Legram later and check in on your progress. I’m sure you’ll have little trouble picking it up?” The young apprentice mirrored the Sword Hermit’s grin. He would certainly ensure he had the scrolls’ contents memorized by the time he returned.

     It was then an idea came to the old master’s mind. He knew what Rean would be up against in the future and that he had a plan of his own. But he certainly wouldn’t object to having an extra ally in the mix. “In fact, you might want to consider where you go to school in the next couple of months, Ezra. Rean has shown an interest in Thors Military Academy. I’m sure he’d be overjoyed to have you there with him. But that’s just a suggestion on my part.”

     This struck a chord in Ezra; he hadn’t considered what school he’d attend once he was done at Sunday School. He knew a little about Thors. If it meant getting to see Rean more. It would be worth looking into in his opinion.

     Fie was stoic. This was just another departure for her. She still wasn’t sure what to make of the boss’s kooky old friend. But how bad could it be hanging around him and his student? If she didn’t like it, then she could just leave and rejoin the corps. Then again, it was nice to take an extended break every so often. She could really crank out some quality naps without having contracts nipping at her heels. But then Laura came up to her. The two of them had reached an understanding, and the beginnings of a friendship had started to form. “I suppose this is goodbye for now, but certainly not farewell.” Her eyes narrowed slightly and she smirked. “After all, you owe me a rematch.”

     The Princess of the West Wind let out a muted chuckle. The two girls had struggled to interact with each other. Until Laura challenged Fie to a swimming race across Lake Ebel. It had been a fierce contest, one that Fie had one by only a hand’s length. The two sat in the shadow of Lohengrin Castle to rest, they finally stopped walking on eggshells and just talked. “I thought you said you weren’t sore that I beat you across the lake. You weren’t lying to me, were you?” One thing Laura learned about Fie quickly was that beyond her lazy demeanor was a first-rate troll.

     Laura let out a delicate laugh. “Hardly! But know that our next race will have a very different outcome.” Her face softened. “Besides which, you did win. I thought it was only proper you earn some kind of trophy.” She produced a small dagger in a blue sheath with the crest of the Viscounty of Legram engraved in silver on the side. “I took this out of the family armory. I figured it would be a suitable prize for a fellow warrior, especially given you’re a knife fighter. Consider this proof of your victory over me, and a bond of our friendship.”

     Fie whistled as she took the blade in hand. Pulling it out to inspect it closer. It was double-edged with a simple crossguard. “Ooh, fancy! I’ve never had something this nice before.” She smiled. “I’ll be sure to put it to good use.” It was clear a rivalry now existed between them, but one built on friendship and trust.

     Laura then turned to Rean. Fie wasn’t the only new friend she had made in the last couple of months. That day on the lake had brought them together in a way she couldn’t fully understand. But Laura felt something that drew her to the young man with hair dark as the night itself. “I’ll be sure to write to you once we hit Bareahard.” Rean’s smile made her face heat up in a big way. “I think the best part of this trip was getting to meet you, Laura. We’ll both have to keep our training up. I’ll want to spar with you next time we meet.”

     “You mean next March?” He raised an eyebrow. The smile was back. “I’ve decided to take your advice and attend Thors myself. I hope to see you then. Keep your skills sharp, Rean. You’ll definitely owe me a duel.”

     “I’ll look forward to that as well.” And as when they met, Rean kissed Laura’s hand. To which Phoebe giggled again. Ezra grinned, happy to see his fellow disciple and childhood friend could possibly get married, maybe he would get to be a godfather to any potential little ones. Rean then looked to Victor, who merely smiled and folded his arms. It gave him hope that a deeper relationship could manifest between them, and it seemed he would have the Radiant Blademaster’s blessing, but that could wait until later.

     Fie then grabbed Rean by the shoulder, yanking him away. “You can make out with your girlfriend later, Casanova. Your master’s ready to leave.” He indicated to Master Ka-Fai, standing near the gate, waving to them. The Ashen Awakener gave one last look to the small town that had taken such an important place in his heart. He looked at his new brother disciple and the girl he loved, giving one last wave and the trio departed for the next step of their journey.

Chapter Text

Disclaimer: See Chapter 1

Another Roll of the Dice

by Storm Wolf77415 and Centurious the Azure

Chapter Six: The Dance of the Flame Princess

     Now back on the road, Master Ka-Fai threw Rean’s training into high gear. It was time to bring the beast within to heel. It had taken everything to open the locks on the ghastly power lurking within Rean’s soul, but this was one of the main reasons he came back in the first place. Despite having used it in the past, it had always been tentative for him, a part of him holding back lest he went on some bloody rampage like when he was a child.

     Rean knew he couldn’t run away from it anymore. He needed every advantage he could get, and his fear couldn’t rule him going forward. He already knew the Spirit Unification technique that allowed him to make use of his power. It was an existing move within the Eight Leaves that allowed the user to draw out their hidden strength, but his ogre power made it even more potent. He knew his life had meaning thanks to his bonds with his classmates, and that would help him keep control. 

     Fie showed genuine surprise the first time Rean’s hair went white, and his eyes turned a harsh red with the sinister aura flowing around her. But the Princess of the West Wind quickly took it in stride. She seemed to relish the fresh challenge before her. The two were now engaged in a heated sparring match. Amazingly, Rean kept up with her, granted she was still faster without him using Gale, but the bizarre power given to him turned all of his abilities up to max, and his natural speed allowed him to keep stride.

     Ashen Void and her twin gun daggers, collectively known as Avenger, met in a clang of steel. She backflipped out of the way to avoid Rean’s upward slash. “Hah!” She cried out, letting out a quick salvo of bullets. But the future Ashen Chevalier was already on the move, a crimson ribbon trailed behind him as he let the unnatural power flow through every fiber of his being. He couldn’t deny it was a powerful asset in combat, as such the bullet hit nothing except some poor unfortunate dust particles.

     “Flame Impact!” Ezra would have been jealous to see the flames spread over the full length of Ashen Void as Rean swung downward, throwing out an inferno in all directions. A slight glint through the smoke caught his eye. Rean turned away, throwing up his empty hand to protect himself as the flashbang Fie had sneakily dropped on her way out went off. Despite shielding himself from the living light, the sound of the blast made his ears ring. But he managed to keep his thoughts to himself, seeing Fie coming in for a massive backhand strike.

     Rean snapped to, quickly sheathing his tachi, making it seem he was going to try for a Crimson Slash. Fie adjusted her body in his air, but the red-hued projectile never came. Instead, Rean stood his ground, calculating when she would be in range, and unleashed Morning Moon, the powerful battojutsu strike flashing brighter than Fie expected. She brought up both Avengers to defend. The familiar ring of steel resonated across the country road. Fie landed in a crouch, and Rean sensed the end was coming.

     He settled in for an Autumn Leaf Cutter. Rean’s muscles tensed as he made to finish the duel. Fie was still struggling to her feet when he made his move. Rean had almost closed the distance when a painful sensation ripped through him. “Damn it, not now!” He growled, tripping over his own two feet. Fie backflipped out of the way, and Ashen Void struck dirt. A flying side kick to the back sent him sprawling to the ground.

     By the time he cleared the cobwebs, Rean slumped to see Avenger pointing at his throat. “Bang, you’re dead.” Fie deadpanned, before sheathing her weapons and helping him up. “So how long was that?” The two looked to Master Ka-Fai, impassively perched on a rock, holding a stopwatch.

     “Four minutes, twenty-eight seconds. That’s the longest you’ve maintained your ogre state yet. A vast improvement over the scant few moments you held it during our earlier training sessions.” The Sword Hermit drawled as they both walked to him. He knocked back some of his sake. “Of course, back then, you were so afraid of it, I wasn’t surprised at your lack of control. But you’re still faltering, Rean. Can I assume you haven’t fully shed your fear of losing control?”

     He didn’t say anything for a few seconds because he knew the old swordsman was right, so Rean just nodded. “I think that’s an accurate statement, Master. It’s not a problem at first, my mind is clear, and I have a handle on it. But then I feel like I’m being pushed closer and closer to the edge of this void of unending darkness that just consumes me whole the longer the battle drags on.” Rean shuddered all over. “And then I’m standing back in that forest, covered in blood.”

     Yun simply stood up to rest a hand on his apprentice’s shoulder. “And that’s the reason we are out here.” He said gently. “Eventually, you will be comfortable enough with this power, but it doesn’t need to be in a day.” He then looked to Fie with approval. “And Rutger trained you very well, little fairy. He would be quite proud of you.” Fie gave a rare half smile. She didn’t do it very often, but it was a pleasant sight.

     “So where are we going next?” Fie asked as they settled down for lunch. She had reacted to Rean’s story about how he expected. She was a hardened jaeger, and the idea of traveling through time was just another day at the office for her. She had become distant upon learning of Rutger and, by extension, Zephyr’s fate. Although hearing how Class VII had become the family that filled the void in her heart gave her some hope.

     “Bareahard, the city of nobles. Jusis’s family runs the place, and it’ll be nice to see him again.” Rean really was eager to see the scion of the Albarea family once more. Despite his rather aloof demeanor at times, Jusis’s iron-clad belief in noblesse oblige ensured that anyone he considered a friend, or ally would have him standing at their side, no matter what. “The question is, how do we get an audience with him? Duke Albarea has a reputation for being a very cold individual so I can’t imagine we can just waltz up to the front door and ask Jusis to come out and play.”

     “But aren’t you a noble like them?” Fie asked, taking a bite out of the sandwich she had bought in the last town they stopped in. “Shouldn’t that be enough to get you some face time with this Jusis guy or whatever?”

     “It’s not that simple, Fie. While my father may be a nobleman, he’s not exactly the most involved with the major families or the Noble Faction in general. He’s something of an outcast, really.” But then something occurred to Rean, a possibility he hadn’t considered initially. “Although, now that I think about it. Jusis’s uncle runs a restaurant in the town square. Maybe we can run into him there?”

     “It sounds like a decent enough start,” Yun commented, drinking his ever-present sake. “At the rate we’re going, we should reach Bareahard in a couple more days.” He sipped a bit more. “We can probably get in a couple more sessions in on training your ogre power.” Rean groaned inwardly, knowing what that meant. Perhaps his master would save him the trouble and just ball kick him over the horizon. Often, that’s what training with the Sword Hermit felt like at times.

(July 2nd, S. 1203, Bareahard, Kreuzen Province)

     The city was much as Rean remembered from their second field study. Classic architecture with roofs all adorned with those brilliant green shingles, giving Bareahard its nickname as the Verdant City. It was a city nearly untouched by time. All three stood in the central square, looking up at the cathedral, the graceful spires elegantly brushing up against the sky. Master Ka-Fai bought Fie a new outfit, stating her Zephyr uniform would draw unwanted attention.

     Fie got to pick it, going for an oversized dark green t-shirt and khaki cargo shorts with green Strega sneakers. She pushed up the brown flat cap she had also picked up. “Wow, look at all the fancy pants types. Can’t say I’m impressed with all the ruffles and frills though.” Fie quipped, noting the people milling about. She really wondered how the noblewomen could stand moving in those dresses with all the layers of fabric. “I guess if you have money to throw around, then you can get all the expensive clothes you want, but it could have probably gone to something more productive.”

     “Bareahard is a city of nobles, as such, they’re very protective of their traditions. If they want to show off their wealth, then they can do that.” Rean noted the way they all moved, their noses in the air with an inflated sense of entitlement. “But that’s not to say Bareahard doesn’t have a dark side.” He muttered. “And it all goes back to Jusis’s father!”

     Yun knocked back some sake, purposefully letting out a disruptive belch that earned him more than a few annoyed eyes, not the Sword Hermit cared about such things. “I’ve heard plenty of things about Helmut Albarea myself, none of it pleasant for casual conversation either. The man especially enjoys severely taxing the citizens of this province and skimming off the top.” Rean said nothing; it definitely tracked.

     “Oh, trust me, that’s the least of his crimes.” Rean’s fist clenched at the memory of Celdic. He took a moment to calm himself; none of that had happened yet, and if he could avoid it, then so much the better. “But let’s try and look for Jusis first.” He indicated to the restaurant right near the church. “That’s Sorciere, his uncle’s establishment. Maybe he can point us in the right direction, not to mention get us a good meal out of it.”  

     Sorciere was a very classy establishment. It had two stories, with the upper loft being reserved for the nobility. Not that Rean and Fie cared about that right now. They were both more interested in the inviting odor coming from the grill. A tall man in traditional chef’s attire, including the tall white hat, stood at the counter. “That’s Jusis’s uncle,” Rean said quietly. “I don’t remember his name, but if anyone knows where Jusis is, then he will.”

     “Then let’s get something to eat, then. I don’t know about you but I’m famished.” Master Ka-Fai said. “I suppose we should give the man our patronage.” Rean wasn’t about to argue, nor was Fie, who was far too used to field rations and the stuff served in the mess tent. Some high-level cuisine would be a rare treat. “Good afternoon to you, sir!” The aging master said to the chef. “I trust you’re well today, and it just so happens the three of us are very hungry and in dire need of a meal. Perhaps you can oblige us?”

     The chef grunted and gave a slight incline of his head. “You’ve come to the right place, then. I’m Hammond, the head chef and owner of this establishment. Take a seat and we’ll get you some menus.” The trio quickly found a table in the corner of the room; it allowed them an unhindered view of the restaurant. Rean was scoping the place, looking for someone in particular. He didn’t have to search for long. Rean really couldn’t help but grin, rather than be in the exclusive nobles’ area. Jusis sat in the main area with the common folk, eating like any other person.

     He was wearing attire similar to what he recalled after the war started: a dark blue pin-striped vest covering a white button-up shirt with a dark cravat, dark pants, and tan riding boots. A long green jacket was draped over the neighboring chair. Rean noticed how relaxed Jusis looked, clearly enjoying the meal before him.

     “Is that him?” Fie leaned in, a light smirk on her face at the sight of Jusis’s face covered in red sauce. “He looks really enthused with the noodles. I figure someone like him would have more presence of mind to wash his face.”

     “Yeah, that’s him, and he should. The recipe came from his mother.” Rean replied, doing his best to stifle his own grin. He was going to enjoy this way more than he should. He took a deep breath, getting up from the table. Yun just raised his mug in salute to his student. Rean approached Jusis’s table. “Pardon me.” He said in his most confident voice. “You’re Jusis Albarea?” The blonde nobleman paused mid-bite. There was a look of irritation on his face that seemed diminished by the sauce still lingering on his face.

     “Depends on who’s asking.” It was the same smooth, refined voice he knew so well, and despite the tone of feigned disinterest, those ice blue eyes told another story entirely. They radiated quiet authority and a will to use it if Jusis felt it was required. “Is it really so important to disrupt my meal?” Rean didn’t falter, trying not to laugh as he held a closed fist to his mouth. “What’s so funny?” Jusis glared slightly.

     “Uh, you still have sauce on your face, Jusis, you might want to clean it up.” An irritated grunt escaped the young noble’s lips as he grabbed the napkin and wiped off his face. One last snort came from the Ashen Awakener before he regained his composure. “Pardon me, formal introductions are in order. My name is Rean Schwarzer, and I come from the Barony of Ymir. I believe your older brother knows my dad.”

     Jusis thought about this for a minute before it registered in his mind. “Of course, Rufus did mention Baron Schwarzer. He learned falconry from him, correct?” Rean nodded.

     “Your brother mentioned you quite a bit and suggested that if I ever found myself in Bareahard, I should look you up.” Rean sat down across from Jusis. “I’m actually here training with my master, and thought it would be a good idea to find someone who knows the town really well. I thought of you, and here we are.” The scion of House Albarea gave Rean a skeptical look. Jusis wasn’t wholly convinced of his story.

     Before Jusis could give a reply, there was a commotion outside. The boys sprang up from the table, quickly joined by Fie. While Master Ka-Fai brought up the rear at a much more sedate pace. Rean’s hand was on his sword, as was Jusis, and Fie already had Avenger in hand but their urgency died when they got outside. A crowd had gathered in the square, but there didn’t appear to be any kind of immediate danger. Weapons were sheathed as they pushed their way to the front of the crowd.

     Some people stepped back at the sight of Jusis, acknowledging him with slight nods and faint whispers of “Lord Albarea.” Jusis himself looked annoyed and just gave a mild wave of his hand to dismiss them. But now Rean and his friends had a full view of the square. It had been cordoned off, and what appeared to be a small tent was set up as an impromptu dressing room in one corner. A small orchestra was preparing its instruments. A series of lit torches were also set around the perimeter.

     “Just what is all this?” Jusis asked one woman, holding an expensive orbal camera.

     “Oh, you don’t know?” She replied. “Arc-en-Ciel is putting on a surprise performance! Apparently, the troupe has a new star and they want to promote her some, so they’re doing a limited tour through the area and this is their first stop.” This immediately got Rean’s attention, for he knew all too well who the new star of Arc En Ciel was. He had fought her long ago, and Rixia Mao moved with the smooth precision and grace only a dancer possessed. A part of him was rather excited at the prospect of seeing her debut.

     An older man wearing a dark purple tuxedo came out holding a microphone. “Greetings to the people of Bareahard! We are Arc En Ciel, and it’s a great pleasure to be in your magnificent city!” A cheer went up from the crowd. The master of ceremonies raised a hand to quiet them. “Today is a special day indeed, for you all have the distinct honor and pleasure of bearing witness to Arc-En-Ciel’s newest attraction! It’s something of a homecoming for her, because she’s a daughter of Erebonia herself!”

     Rean’s eyes widened, and his jaw dropped at that utterance. Rixia was from Calvard, not Erebonia! His confusion was answered by the woman coming out of the dressing tent. She was most assuredly NOT Rixia. This girl had hair the color of magnificent scarlet, framing eyes of brilliant aquamarine. There was great confidence in her gait; every stride was measured but graceful. It made him think of Laura in more than a few ways.

     The girl was decked out in a revealing costume the same color as her hair, consisting of a brilliant low-cut, halter top decked out with gold and silver sequins, exposing her bare midriff, flat as could be, and very well-toned. Tight hot pants, also done up with sequins and long red fringe, did nothing to hide a perfectly sculpted rear end. Ankle-high brown boots adorned her feet. Red and gold feathers decorated her hair as she took center stage, hands on her hips as she took in the adulation.

     The master of ceremonies bowed his head to her. “Ladies and Gentlemen, Arc En Ciel’s newest star, The Flame Princess, Miss Fianna Merrigold!” The girl, Fianna, flashed a seductive smile with pristine white teeth as she blew a kiss to the crowd, before taking the microphone.

     “Hello there, Bareahard! I hope you came to see a show!” She proclaimed in a melodic voice with a seductive overtone. “Because I sure did! Yes, I am Fianna Merrigold, and I joined Arc En Ciel just last month. My official debut will be in the next couple of weeks; we’re preparing a brand-new performance just for that. But I figure, why wait that long? We’ll bring the excitement directly to the people!” The crowd cheered once again. “So, enjoy this short little piece I call the Fox Dancing in Fire!” Fianna handed the microphone back to the MC. She took a pair of thin sticks from one of the stagehands and took her place in the center of the stage, head bowed down.

     A shrill burst of strings and a strident blaring of the horns indicated the start of the performance. Brilliant flames erupted from the cauldrons. Fianna’s head snapped up, the sticks in hand. Fianna contorted her body backward, kicking up to the sky. She brought the sticks down in a movement very reminiscent of a sword. Fianna moved in a blur, backflipping gracefully before rolling on her back into a crouch, kicking up into a handstand. The sticks moved in a series of artful movements when she flipped upwards, twisting on a single leg.

     The flames rose and fell in time with the stirring beat of the music. The crowd began crying out in amazement as Fianna suddenly leapt several arge into the air, spinning and twirling as she hit the peak of the jump. Her body gracefully twisted, her flaming red hair and costume contrasting heavily against the clear blue sky. She deftly spun the sticks in her hands; they were adorned with red and gold streamers, flapping in the breeze as she fell downward. It made Rean and his friends worry how she’d land.

     But they needn’t worry, Fianna landed in a graceful crouch before she jumped even higher this time, and the crowd cheered even more. She thrust out the sticks in rapid succession, the streamers waving like tongues of fire. Fianna spun the sticks again before thrusting and waving them in a series of elaborate motions. She even kicked in the air once, flipping end over end before she fell back to the ground once more.

     “Most impressive,” Jusis remarked, watching as Fianna spun a couple times on her way down. She made it look incredibly easy. “I’ve long heard of Arc-en-Ciel’s performances and how theatrical they can be. But it’s another thing entirely to see it with my own eyes.”

     “The performers of Arc-En-Ciel are some of the best in the world at what they do.” Master Ka-Fai stated, watching a she flung herself into the sky, spinning once again. A slight grin crossed his face. “And it appears Miss Merrigold is in very good company. She looks good in more than one way.” Rean rolled his eyes while Fie snickered. His master was wise, but he was still a pervy old man at heart.

      A few people winced as she landed in a crouch before springing up with her streamer-covered sticks in hand. Jusis folded his arms, watching as Fianna spun around the square, while slicing the air with the props. “I’m amazed she doesn’t break her ankles every time she lands. I have to imagine she’s putting considerable strain on the body with all the fancy acrobatics.” 

     Rean had no words for his future classmate; a part of his mind was still trying to work out who Fianna was and how she had become involved with this.  Only for Fie to gently nudge him in the side. “She’s got a lot more going on under the hood than people realize. Check out her footwork. She’s not just a dancer, she’s a duelist.” She cocked her head slightly breaking down her movements. “And those sticks? Definitely not just for show!”

     “You’re saying she has combat training?” Jusis asked, watching more intently. It wasn’t long before he began seeing the rhythm of Fianna’s movements more clearly. “Huh, you’re right! That is as much the footwork of a fighter as it is a dancer. One I actually recognize. Miss Merrigold is a student of the Vander School’s dual wielding variant.” He snorted, realizing Fianna’s spins and turns now had a heavy edge to them. “And the sticks should have been an indication.”

     “Yeah, but she’s not wielding full-length swords.” Fie piped up, smirking a little, noting the dexterity of her fingers as she flipped the sticks in them, holding one high overhead as she spun in place twice. “She’s a knife fighter, like me! But something tells me she doesn’t have guns attached to whatever she usually wields.”

     “There’s something else mixed in there as well.” Rean finally spoke as Fianna leapt into the sky. Something that had caught his trained eye once they knew what to look for. He too, knew about how the Vander School’s two main variations were based on greatswords and dual wielding, but at the same time, Fianna’s personal technique was built on something besides one of the Empire’s two greatest sword schools, something closer to home for Rean. “What it is I’m not sure, but it’s definitely Eastern-based.”

     “A good eye, my apprentice. It’s called Eskrima.” Yun interjected, watching with approval as Fianna spun around into a high split, the streamers on the sticks flapping just as her hair did. “It’s from a distant part of the Far East. They normally use a pair of rattan sticks, but they can be easily replaced by knives of any kind. The culture in that part of the continent is heavily built around it, just as the Empire has a deep history of swordsmanship.”

     The flames reached higher than ever before as the performance hit its climax. Fianna threw her sticks in the air, doing a series of cartwheels, flips, and rolls before deftly catching them. She leapt one more time in the air, wreathed in the fire. She landed perfectly in a flourish, and the music ended to a rousing series of cheers and applause. Fianna gave a deep theatrical bow before throwing out another kiss to the audience. “Thank you all so much!” She said, once again taking the microphone as stagehands quickly worked in the background. “I hope you enjoyed the performance. It’s one I came up with myself. But we’re not done yet, not by a long shot!”

     The MC took the microphone back. “Arc-en-Ciel prides themselves on being close with their fans. So for the next two hours we will have a photo session where you can take pictures with Fianna and ask her questions about her time with the troupe. So if you’re eager to do so, please line up and we will to get everyone.”

     “Hm, nice! I wouldn’t mind having a few words with her.” Fie hummed for a few seconds while idly tapping her chin. She then side-eyed Jusis as she smirked before letting out an evil chuckle.

     “What are you planning?” Jusis prided himself on having firm control of his emotions, and keeping a cool head at all times. But the way this little wisp of a girl was staring at him was enough to make even him nervous.

     “We could be standing in line all day before we even get a word with her. But since your family does run this town, we could bypass the line entirely!” Before Jusis could issue a protest, Fie shoved him toward the front of the line. “Out of the way! Bareahard Bigshot coming through!” She called out in a loud voice. “Make way for the son of Duke Albarea!” Rean did his best to stifle his laughter. This was so totally a Fie move, and it brought a profound sense of relief to his heart.

     Master Ka-Fai thought it was funny too, given the loud belly laugh he let out. “Ah ha ha! Oh, you are so Rutger’s little girl! I recall he did something similar when Ikaruga and Zephyr were working a job together out in Remiferia!” He took another drink of sake as he followed the children, recounting the story to Rean and Fie, all the while Jusis kept protesting the whole way. The crowd quickly recognized the scion of House Albarea and readily allowed them passage.

     “Stop this at once!” Jusis growled even as Fie merrily pushed him through the throng of people. He could have probably easily broken free, but he had so many eyes on him in that particular moment. He winced at what his father would say, and Rufus would never let him hear the end of it. “This is so undignified!”

     “Oh, lighten up!” Fie shot back, looking to Rean, still enjoying the scene himself. “Are all nobles this uptight?”

     “He’s better than others,” Rean admitted. “Jusis is actually quite modest despite his station. One thing he can’t stand is a suck up. He prefers people just to be honest with their feelings and get to know the man behind the name. It’s how we became friends the first time again.” These words struck a chord with Jusis because Rean had spoken the truth. The scion of House Albarea looked to the heir of House Schwarzer, and a new understanding passed between them. But it was only for a minute, and Jusis was still annoyed.

     “Must she push me along like this?” He grumbled, doing his best to keep his dignity.    

     “I don’t know, you tell me.” Jusis’s next words died on his tongue as he was face to face with the Flame Princess. Fianna’s smile was predatory as her gaze raked up and down him. “I must say I’m quite surprised, I wasn’t expecting to meet someone from House Albarea in person. Regardless, I’m simply delighted to know that you were here to catch my performance today. Did it meet your high standards, Lord Albarea?” She batted her eyelashes at the end.

     Jusis threw out a final glare at Fie before regaining his composure and turning on the noble charm. “Please, just Jusis will do. And yes, it was a superb display all around, Miss Merrigold.” He smiled, gently kissing her hand. “It’s a great pleasure to bear witness to such a spectacle. I was quite amazed by those high jumps. I imagine you must undergo a significant degree of physical conditioning in order not to hurt yourself upon landing.”

     Fianna giggled; it was light and teasing. “You’re very observant, Jusis Indeed, Ilya, Rixia, and myself all hit the gym every day to harden our bodies to endure the extreme acrobatics we employ in all our performances.” A stab of relief went through Rean, even if Fianna was an unexpected addition to this narrative, knowing that both Ilya and Rixia were in the mix meant that things were close enough to how he remembered them. But it was then he felt Fianna’s eyes on him, and that predatory smile was back. “Ah, are these friends of yours?”

     Jusis smirked, and Rean suddenly felt his stomach drop into his feet. “I actually just met them, but they seem to be such huge fans of yours. Perhaps you can indulge them some?” Payback was sweet in so many ways. Rean was trying to keep his gaze squarely on Fianna’s face. He did his best to fill his head with images of nothing but Laura. He also had an idea of what would happen if Laura were there.  

     Fie didn’t seem bothered by any of this. If anything, she had quickly come to like the redhead. She just stood square with Fianna, both women sizing each other up. Neither of them said a word to each other before they both smiled, making Rean feel very nervous. “The way you handled those sticks was pretty impressive. I feel bad for anyone trying to mess with you in a dark alley. You strike me as the type who has little issue cracking someone over the head for getting too handsy. I bet it’s even more so if you swap them out for a pair of good daggers.”

     Fianna beamed. “Oh, a fellow knife user then? You have a sharp eye to be able to determine my weapon of choice.”

     To which Fie just shrugged. “It was pretty easy once we determined what the sticks were for. It’s actually pretty close to what I do.” She held her hand out. “The name’s Fie Claussell. I’m just along for the ride because my pop is friends with this chucklehead’s master.” She jerked a thumb at Rean, who offered a fake grin. “I wasn’t sure about it at first, but I’m glad that I came along anyway.” Again, Rean struggled to keep his gaze on Fianna’s face. He wasn’t sure what to do, but then Fie elbowed him in the side. “Come on, introduce yourself to the lady.”

     Rean sighed, and bowed low. “Rean Schwarzer from the Ymir Barony. It’s very nice to meet you, Miss Merrigold. Your performance was quite lovely.” He would acknowledge her grace and skill, but it was still really hard not to stare at how blessed in the chest Fianna really was. And given how she looked at him, Fianna really didn’t seem to mind. But Rean soldiered on. “I imagine you’re quite pleased to make it to the big time. Arc-en-Ciel doesn’t take just anybody. Then again, Ilya Platierre is always a very good judge of talent.”

     “Indeed, Ilya always did know how to pick them well. She picked Rixia right out of the crowd and just knew she had what it took. Perhaps you’d like to join us as well, Lord Schwarzer?” She folded her arms. “I’m sure she’d be more than willing to welcome you into the troupe’s ranks. I know I wouldn’t mind!”

     “Like Jusis, I don’t stand too much on formality. You can just call me Rean. I’m flattered you would extend an offer to me, Miss Merrigold. But I’m afraid I have other plans at the moment. I’ve been traveling around the empire with my master to hone my skills before I attend Thors Military Academy next year.” Fianna’s eyes widened a little.

     “You’re planning on attending Thors?” Fianna laughed and clapped. “Then you’ll be able to meet my little brother then! His family lives in Trista, and he’ll be attending Thors next spring as well.” And Fianna shook the foundation of Rean’s world once again. During his whole-time attendance at Thors there were never any students who hailed directly from there. “I call him my little brother, but we’re not actually related. But our dads have known each other for years, and I’m two years older than him. So he’s my little brother.”

     “I’ll be sure to look him up then.” Rean managed. Ignoring the smirks, Jusis and Fie were shooting him. Master Ka-Fai just gave a knowing grin to his apprentice while taking a light swig from his pocket flask. The Sword Hermit may look like he was just another drunken old man, but he caught something out of the corner of his eye. A pair of men standing at the edge of the square, they wore nondescript clothing and had nondescript faces, just a couple of generic-looking men in the crowd, but years of training and experience said otherwise.

     They were speaking in hushed whispers and pointing at Fianna. The old master just idly sipped his sake one more time, all the while noting the two men as they quickly hurried away toward the Artisan District.

     A small crowd of reporters bearing cameras and notepads came up. “Miss Merrigold, we’re with the Imperial Chronicle. Is it possible we can get a statement?” They were crowding in fast, asking questions in rapid fire. A couple of them diverted their attention to Jusis instead, who handled it with great poise and the same bored disinterest Rean remembered Jusis using to get rid of brown-nosing classmates at Thors.

     Fianna seemed right at home with all the attention. “Please, I’m sure Lord Albarea is an extremely busy man. After all, you came to see me.” The reporters promptly left Jusis alone. She let out a dramatic sigh. “The downsides of stardom, everyone wants a piece of you.” The predatory smile returned. “I’ll be in town for a few days yet, perhaps I’d be lucky to get an audience with Duke Albarea himself and have dinner at your home?”

     “I’ll be sure to let my father know about it.” He said, praying with all he had to Aidios, such a thing had never happened. “I’m sure he’d readily welcome you and the rest of your troupe.”

     “Well, my adoring public awaits! See you later!” Fianna waved as she began speaking to the assembled journalists.

     Jusis sighed, relieved that the attention wasn’t on him. He looked at Rean and Fie. “Can we go back to Sorcerie now? I think I need another bowl of my uncle’s spaghetti.” His gaze turned harsh. “And then we can discuss the real reason you came here. Because something tells me it’s not just because of something Rufus said.” In that moment, Rean could see the future Duke of Kreuzen Province. “So the truth better be something good.”

     Rean was unmoved; he knew Jusis would be a hard sell, and figured this was as good a time as any to come clean. “But of course. Transparency is always important after all.” He replied, flashing a glance at Master Ka-Fai, who had kept to the edge of the crowd during their little interaction with Fianna. So they departed back to the restaurant. They went back to the table and sat around it.

     “Okay, Jusis, you’re a rational man and don’t like going about in circles. So I’ll cut right to the chase. Yet I think it’s fair to point out that what I’m about to tell you is extremely out there and unlikely, but it is the truth.” Rean took a deep breath. “I’m a time traveler from the future. You, Fie, and I will become classmates at Thors in another few months, and I’m traveling around the empire, checking in on everyone and getting some extra training in while doing so.”

     Unsurprisingly, Jusis wore a skeptical look. “Really? Time travel? You’re right, that is preposterous to even consider.” But then he became quiet. “But you also said we would become friends.” In this moment, Rean and Fie got to witness something few ever would, his vulnerability. “Because of my family name, I’m respected by everyone here in Bareahard, but I don’t have a lot of true friends.” He closed his eyes, hesitating a little. “Or any friends really,” Jusis said the last part quietly. 

     Jusis quickly regained his usual demeanor. “If this future of yours is real, and we do become friends. Then prove it, tell me something that I would only tell a trusted friend that is utterly soul shattering. If you can do that, then I’ll believe you.” 

     “Okay, you made that really easy. Yes, I do know something about your past, Jusis. Something that few others do. I know that Duchess Albarea is not your actual mother.” There it was, the stern gaze from Jusis, indicating it was the truth. He said nothing, and so Rean continued. “She was a commoner your father had an affair with. He took you in out of respect for her memory, and to avoid any possible scandals.” Rean leaned in. “You tell that to me that during our field study here. In a lot of ways, you and I share that in common.”

     Jusis arched an eyebrow. It was time for Rean to put forward a little of his own honesty. “For you see, I’m actually a commoner myself, and I was adopted by the Schwarzers when I was very young. I was left in the middle of the woods near Ymir and they took me in. Despite how well both of them treated me. I always felt isolated, like I never really belonged anywhere. I was really glad when you told me that, because it meant I wasn’t alone anymore.”

     Rean watched Jusis closely for his reaction; this would be the critical moment if he had won him over. The young noble folded his hands in front of his face. “Not being alone anymore.” He repeated, before nodding slightly. “Yeah, I know that feeling all too well. Being alone in your home.” Jusis tapped the countertop. “Okay then, you sold me. As ludicrous as it sounds. So tell me, what are the rest of our future classmates like? If I’m going to spend any extended amount of time around these people. I want to know what I’m getting myself into.”

     It took everything for Rean not to laugh, of course, Fie did it for him. “Thank you, Jusis. As for our classmates, they are a very eclectic bunch. We’re part of an unprecedented social experiment thought up by Prince Olivert himself, a class where nobles and commoners intermingle as one. Nothing like it had ever been done before, and a lot of people mocked it. But Class VII quickly proved them all wrong. We would go on field studies all over the Empire and get a real good look at the social problems plaguing it and you know exactly what I’m talking about.”

     “Indeed, the tensions between the nobles and the reformists are something I’m all too aware of, and it only seems to get worse by the day.” Jusis grimaced, recalling a recent incident when he and Rufus had accompanied their father to Heimdallr and had a very unpleasant run-in with the Chancellor and some of his supporters. “I must say His Highness certainly found an interesting way to try and bridge the gap. If what you say is true then us being picked wasn’t just random happenstance.”

     “Most certainly not, we were each chosen by the prince to be his personal troubleshooters, not connected by the politics of a single faction. As such, there was some friction between some of us, but with time, everyone fell into the same groove, and we became close.” Rean put a hand on Jusis’s shoulder. “A second family if you will.” He went on to explain the other members of Class VII to Jusis, putting a special emphasis on Machias and his stormy relationship with the scion of the House of Albarea.

     Jusis was actually amused upon hearing about Machias’s severe dislike of the nobility. “Hmph, the son of the first commoner to be named Imperial Governor. I suppose he’ll make a worthy enough adversary, a fine change from all the mincing, simpering nobles I have to deal with normally.” He smirked, to which both Rean and Fie snickered as he straightened himself up. “I’m still not sure what to make of this whole time travel thing, but it’s piqued my interest enough to see about enrolling at Thors just to see how everything plays out.”

     “I guarantee it will be more than worth it, Jusis. We all grow from it in ways we didn’t think possible.” Rean said, feeling quite relieved, he had managed to win him over.

     Jusis straightened out his jacket. “As long as the two of you are here in town, perhaps I can give you a tour? I would be a poor host and a worse friend if I didn’t show you some of the city’s finer points that normally are overlooked by tourists.”

     Both Fie and Rean looked to each other. “Whatever you could show us would be greatly appreciated.” He finally said, already feeling like the rest of Class VII was around him. 

     Master Ka-Fai chortled. “Hehe, I’m glad to see you’re making new friends, Rean. The son of one of the Four Great Houses, no less. I’m sure he’ll be a very capable ally down the line.” He extended his hand to Jusis. “I suppose formal introductions are in order, Lord Albarea. My name is Yun Ka-Fai.” Jusis’s eyes widened in shock, to which the old master nodded. “Yes, that is who I am, and Rean is my apprentice. Thank you for not completely dismissing his words. He needs all the support he can get right now.” He stood groaning and stretching. “I’ll leave you three to your own devices, but if I was smart, I’d keep my eyes and ears open. There’s mischief makers afoot, best to keep alert.”

     He walked out the door, leaving the trio of future classmates alone. “Is he always like that?” Jusis asked.

     “Pretty much, but if he tells you something is up, then it’s usually a good idea to take it to heart.” Rean pondered his master’s words as he looked to Fie. “It looks like we might see some action here after all, but then again, this trip would be rather boring if nothing exciting happened.”

     “About time we got some real action. I was getting bored.” Fie’s hands went to her holstered gun daggers. It was that moment she reminded everyone of just who she really was, Fie Claussell, Sylphid, the Wind Princess of Zephyr. Anyone who tried to mess with her would be cut to pieces.

     Rean looked to Jusis, his eye going to the knight's sword hanging at his hip. “Dumb question to ask, but you practiced with your blade recently?”

     “As if I would ever let my skills diminish any!” Jusis sounded incensed. He had just had a very intense sparring session with Rufus the previous day. His older brother was the reason he knew Albarea-style court fencing as well as he did. “I have a duty to the people of this town to protect them against any threats. If someone thinks they can turn my town into their own little playground. They will answer to me.”

     “Just making sure.” Rean suddenly felt very bad for whoever decided to cause trouble in Bareahard. Jusis was a firm believer in noblesse oblige, that his status as a noble meant he had a responsibility to those around him. It was the central core of his personal ideals, and Jusis would gladly take up sword and arts alike to defeat whatever enemy was in his path. “So why don’t we get that tour started? I’m sure it will be quite pleasant.”

(Bareahard, Artisan Street)

     Artisan Street, home to some of the best craftsmen in Erebonia. It’s a place of tradition and fine workmanship. But even this stately place has its dark secrets. A pair of hooded figures moved through shadowed back alleys. Arriving at a four-story building made of brilliant red brick, they knocked at the steel rolling door. “Hey! It’s us!” One of the figures said. The door strained as it was pulled open, and the two figures entered, the door sliding shut behind them. Hoods were pulled down, revealing the two men from the square earlier in the day. 

     The building usually served as a warehouse for the many tradesmen who worked in the district, but it had been shanghaied for use as a temporary base by a group of jaegers. There was about two dozen of them, all in civilian clothing as they tended to their equipment. “So, how did your recon go? Did you see the target?” The lead jaeger asked. 

     “Yes, we did, Commander.” The first scout replied. “Fianna Merrigold, the newest attraction from Arc En Ciel. I’ll admit, she really put on a show for everyone!” He whistled and gave a slightly perverted leer, recalling Fianna’s tight costume and even tighter-looking body as she leapt through the air with practiced ease. “I’ll tell you she looked smoking hot while she did it!”

     The other scout rolled his eyes; his partner had always been a lech, so it would fall to him to deliver the actual intel of value. “She’s kept to the same routine the past two days. Wakes up around 0700 from the Hotel Esmerald in the Central Square and goes for a morning jog, takes a lap through Station Street, the Noble District, through to here and back to the hotel. She has no real security, so I think it should be easy enough to grab her, boss. It should just be a matter of picking the right time and place for it. Once we do that, we demand the ransom from Arc En Ciel for her safe return.”

     “300,000 Mira, hell of a payday for us.” The commander echoed, a greedy smile crossing his face. He could already feel the bills slapping against his palm. He then turned to address the rest of the corps. “Good job, boys, we’ll make a name for ourselves yet! Everyone will know of the Jaeger Corps Bugbear!”

     “Go, Bugbear!” They raised their fists in the air. It all looked so simple in their eyes. Find and abduct a prominent celebrity, and demand a large ransom for their safe return. It would allow them to purchase new gear and also allow them to grow the ranks of the corps. Not to mention, it was an easy way to just get rich quickly, not to mention gaining lots of notoriety. It was just a matter of time now.

(Later That Afternoon, South Kreuzen Highway)

     Rean wasn’t surprised at all when Jusis took him and Fie to a stable located at the city gates. Equestrianism was the scion of the Albarea clan’s greatest passion. Jusis looked totally at home on the dark stallion he rode. Rean was on a charcoal mare while Fie handled a pinto gelding. The three trotted down the winding trail, the only sound beating hooves against gravel and wind blowing through the trees.

     “I must say it’s been a while since I went riding with others,” Jusis remarked, peering up at the sky, fast turning purple and orange as the sun set. “Rufus and I would go out all the time on this trail when we were younger, but those moments became less and less frequent as he took on more duties. So, I’d go riding by myself. It’s good for clearing my head, but at the same time, it’s also nice to have someone to share this with.”

     “We’re glad to oblige,” Rean said, patting his horse. “These are good mounts. Are they from Nord?”

     Jusis let out a smug little chortle. “You have a good eye, yes, they are. One of my father’s few good decisions was importing horses from the Highlands. He would accept nothing less than the best.” He became somber. “Of course, it meant he wasn’t exactly the most doting parent either.” Rean didn’t need to say anything else; their arrival in Bareahard was crystal clear in his memory, the cold, dismissive glare before he drove off.

     “You’re a better noble, a better man than your father could ever hope to be,” Rean spoke up, not wanting Jusis to get caught up in his own loathing. “You always talk about noblesse oblige, and the responsibility that comes with that title. My father is the same way. He never let his status put himself above others. He was the kind of guy who would rather have people stand alongside him, rather than bow at his feet. You’re cut from the same cloth, Jusis.” 

     “Better yet, just don’t dwell on such things right now,” Fie spoke up, plucking a leaf from a low-hanging tree branch. “If we came out here to relax, then let’s relax. Don’t let the heavy stuff bother you. This is supposed to be our time to enjoy ourselves, and that’s all that matters.”

     “Fie’s right, Jusis, let’s just enjoy ourselves,” Rean said, looking to the sky. “None of that stuff is going anywhere. You can lean on us from here on out.” Jusis had no other words. They all shared a moment that day.

(The Next Morning)

     An overcast sky hung over the Verdant City, an aura of gloom permeated everything. Not that Fianna cared or minded. She left the hotel, wearing a black and red tank top and white track pants and Stregas. Stretching once, she began her morning jog. She set down toward the Noble District, waving to the random early commuter on their way to work. A couple of people called out to Fianna as she ran by them, wanting an autograph, which she happily obliged.

     More than a few eyes were on her as she went through the aristocrats’ part of town. Not all of them were men, as Fianna noted more than a few noblewomen giving her a slight smile as she ran by them. She smiled and winked back at them as she continued running, almost all the way to the end of the street. Huffing a little, Fianna turned and ran back toward the Central Plaza. The city was starting to come alive more and more.

     She was turning onto Artisan’s Street when a pair of burly figures stepped into her path, nearly causing a collision. “Hey! Why don’t you watch where you’re going you big goons!” Fianna cried, but they were unmoved. The two men wore dark clothes and stony expressions before they grabbed her by the arms. “Let go of me!” She cried, kicking her legs in protest. Her voice carried enough so people knew it was happening.

     “Oh, shut up, if you know what’s good for you!” One of her abductors snapped at her in a harsh voice as they dragged her into a back alley. Fianna kicked one of them in the shins in an attempt to escape, only to get backhanded across the face for her trouble. A few people gasped in surprise.

     “Hey, don’t damage the goods!” The other kidnapper said, holding her arms behind her back. “She’s not worth to us all bashed up!” The first jaeger grunted, pulling out handcuffs and slapping them on Fianna’s wrists.

     “She makes regular 60 arge jumps into the air and lands without blinking. I think she can take getting roughed up a little bit.” The first one replied, clicking them shut and slinging Fianna over his beefy shoulder. The two headed toward the Bugbear hideout. They strode in like conquering heroes. “Mission accomplished, boss! We did pretty well if I do say so myself!” Fianna flailed her legs some more, trying to kick the guy in the head without much success. “She’s a feisty one to be sure.”

     “Why don’t you take these love bands off, and I’ll show you just how feisty I can really be!” Fianna hissed, only to get mocking laughter from the other Bugbear operatives.

     “My dear, I don’t think how in over your head you really are.” The commander said, grabbing Fianna by the chin. “We’re dangerous people, and once we’ve gotten our ransom, then everyone will know the name of Bugbear, the most fearsome corps in all of Western Zemuria!” Fianna looked at him for all of ten seconds before she split her sides from the uncontrollable laughter.

     “Bugbear? You’re called Bugbear?! What kind of lame name is that? That’s like calling yourselves Catbug or MeowBark! The only ones taking that name are those with IQs lower than rocks!” Fianna didn’t wince even as she got punched in the stomach.

     “You may mock us now, but who’s the one cuffed up?” The commander sneered. “Last I checked, it wasn’t me!” He motioned to one of the operatives who kidnapped her. “Take Miss Merrigold to the guest quarters, I’m sure she must be quite tired.”        

     The guest quarters were a small storage room on the second floor. Fianna got thrown into an uncomfortable metal folding chair. “Here, make yourself at home for a while, girly. Because you’ll be here for a while.” The Jaeger made some faux kissing sounds at her. Fianna spat at him, but missed. He just mock-kissed a couple more times before locking the door. Fianna glared at the door for a few seconds before she smirked and did her best to stifle her laughter.

     “Oh wow, it’s not just the name of their corps that’s moronic. These guys only have one working brain cell between all of them.” Fianna began flexing and contorting until she managed to work her arms in front of her. “Putting my hands behind my back was a good move, but it doesn’t mean anything to a girl who can twist her body into a pretzel.” She began rummaging about inside the pocket of her track pants. “Not to mention they didn’t think of checking me for any contraband!”

     She pulled out a small leather pouch, revealing a set of lock picks inside. Fianna looked relieved at the sight of them, a gift from someone as good as family. “Oh, thank you so much for teaching me how to do this, Mom!” With that, she began working on picking her cuffs slowly but focused. Fianna was smart enough not to immediately escape. One thing her parents had drilled into her head was patience and waiting for the right moment. She would bide her time, and then Bugbear would find what it meant to face the daughter of a Fox.

(Later That Morning)

     Fianna’s kidnapping wasn’t exactly private; more than a few had heard, and a couple even saw it happen with their own eyes, and thus quickly reported it to the provincial army soldier standing guard at the city gates. And so it was that when Jusis and his coterie emerged from the hotel, a small contingent of soldiers stood waiting for them, at their head was an older man with slightly graying hair, standing perfectly at parade rest with a stoic gaze in his eye.

     A pair of ornate, but functional-looking swords hanging at his sides. His uniform was the same shade of blue as the others, but the most elaborate of them all, with gold braiding along the shoulders, and several medals with ribbons of multiple colors on his chest, indicating many years of military service. “Lord Jusis!” The man quickly strode forward, offering a quick salute. “Please forgive my intrusion, but there’s a matter of great urgency that I had to speak to you about immediately.”

     Jusis took a moment. “Quick introductions first, this is Major General Owen Artorum, commander of the Kreuzen Provincial Army. Owen, this is Rean Schwarzer, son of the Baron of Ymir and Fie Claussell.” Jusis had to pause for a minute, not sure what to say, but Fie did it for him.

     “Just call me a visitor to the Empire, and we’ll leave it at that for right now.” She said, getting a questioning stare from the general and a snicker from Rean.

     Even Jusis quirked a half smile before quickly putting his noble face back on. “What’s the problem, Owen? You said there was a matter of great urgency.”

     The older man’s face suddenly looked weathered by ten years. “Miss Fianna Merrigold had been reported abducted in broad daylight. We have multiple accounts saying that she was grabbed during an early morning jog through town.” Owen looked quite disturbed as he leaned in. “Not only will this look bad for us, but I don’t need to tell you what kind of reaction her parents will have! Mark alone will have the Fifth Division beating down our door within a day, and less said about his wife!”

     “Pardon me for asking,” Rean spoke up. “But where exactly did this take place? Did anyone call asking for some kind of ransom? It seems like this could be what they want.”

     Owen pondered this before answering. “According to eyewitnesses, it was in the Central Square, just near where the Artisan’s District starts, and no one has called claiming responsibility yet, but we’ll certainly be keeping watch for that now.”

     Jusis took a moment to weigh his options. His gaze shifted to Rean, who just put his hands in his pockets and gave a slight incline of his head. Fie folded her arms and smirked. All of a sudden, Jusis felt a burst of confidence. “In that case, notify Father and Rufus. Let them know I have it well in hand. My friends and I.” Saying that just felt right to him. “Will investigate this personally. Give us two hours, and I’ll notify you then. Do you trust me on that, Owen?”

     The general harrumphed and looked at him with pride. “But of course, Lord Jusis.” He smirked. “After all, I did train you and your brother in the finer points of investigation. If we hear anything about a potential ransom, then I’ll get back to you. I have total faith in you, then. You have your two hours, so be diligent.” Owen stepped back and saluted them before he and his men departed. Jusis looked as the KPA commander got into the car and drove off.

     “He seems like he has a good head on his shoulders.” Rean didn’t recall ever meeting Owen the first time around, but he could have been there the entire time and just never showed up. But he got the impression of who Jusis’s true father figure was.

     Jusis just nodded fondly. “He was the one who trained both Rufus and I in the way of the sword. Owen has always taken the time to listen to my problems. He’s never turned me away because he was too busy.” The Albarea scion bowed his head for a quick moment before he turned around to face his comrades, now all business. “But enough of that, if Miss Merrigold is being held somewhere, then it is my duty…our duty.” He corrected himself. “To find her and bring her home alive and well.”

     “Should we notify Master Ka-Fai?” Fie asked. “He was still sleeping when we left.” Sleeping would have been an understatement. The Sword Hermit had been down in the bar all night, and came up just after 1 AM. Not to mention, he was snoring so loudly it would put an Achtzen to shame.

     “I think the three of us can handle it,” Rean said. “My master isn’t the type to fight all our battles for us. He would probably say that the experience would be worth it.”

     “Indeed, I could use the warmup myself,” Jusis said. 

     “We’ve taken jobs to find missing people before, and I’m a decent enough tracker. I’m sure we can suss it out.” Fie grunted, stretching her arms over her head before cracking her neck. The inner hunter was starting to come out. “So where do we start looking, fearless leader?” She directed the question at Rean, not Jusis. “If she were taken, then we have seventy-two hours at most to ascertain her whereabouts before she becomes a liability, ransom or not.”

     “Given she was last seen just outside of the Artisan’s District, our best bet is to start looking there.” Rean found himself naturally slipping into command mode. It felt just like being on a field study again. He then looked at Jusis. “What do you make of these kidnappers? The fact that it happened in broad daylight and how so many people saw them commit the act doesn’t seem very bright to me. The district is a pretty narrow place. It’s not like they couldn’t have waited in a side alley and just grabbed her then.”

     “Indeed, it all sounds extremely amateurish. They’re either so confident in their own abilities or they’re just truly inept; they didn’t consider all the consequences.” Jusis straightened his coat out. “Let’s make for Artisan’s Street, we’ve wasted enough time as is.” The three of them quickly headed through town. Once they reached the district of craftsmen, they split up and went to all the major stores to learn whatever they could.

     Luckily, everyone was more than willing to explain what they saw. “They certainly weren’t being quiet about it.” Turner, the man who owned the jewelry store, grunted as he spoke to Rean. “I think half the neighborhood saw it happen, and the rest all heard it. They disappeared into a side street before anyone could really intervene. I hope you’re able to do something about that.”

     “I don’t think you’ll have to look very far to find them, Lord Jusis.” Letra, one of the seamstresses at the tailoring shop, said to Jusis. “There have been all kinds of unsavory types around here lately, showed up about a week ago, whole lot of them prowling through the street like they owned the place. A couple of them even made passes at us when they stopped in here. I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re holed up somewhere in the district. I certainly hope you find that poor girl soon.”

     “They weren’t your average tourists, let me tell you. They were constantly eyeing everything and everyone.” Davros, the old man who ran the orbal factory said, as he leaned in to Fie. “I’d say they had military training, but if so, then their situational awareness is absolutely pathetic. If they were true professionals, then they wouldn’t have been so obvious.     There was a slight gleam in Fie’s eyes at the mention of military training. It was the proverbial smoking gun.

     The three met in the middle of the street once they finished questioning everyone. “Everyone we interviewed said the same thing: a group of strangers blow into town, skulking about while looking at everything suspiciously. The engineer at the orbal factory even said they had military training.” Fie expounded while tapping her foot. “This isn’t just a couple of guys acting on their own. This was a full-blown planned operation, which for me points to Jaegers. But not very good ones.”

     “This sounds familiar to me for some reason.” Rean reached back into his memory, trying to figure out just what it was, but he quickly brushed it off. “The guys in the jewelry store said they vanished into a side street, which tracks with what the people at the tailor store said about them operating out of the district itself.” He took a few steps. “So there can’t be too many places large enough to support them all.”

     “Indeed, in fact, I have a very good idea of where these troublemakers are hiding. There’s a warehouse in the southern part of the district. It’s been used by various merchants and whatnot over the years, and more or less just sticks in the background. So everyone just ignores it. I’ll notify Owen to send some backup in case they prove to be difficult.” Jusis smirked widely. “Well now, shall we pay these miscreants a visit? They made a huge mistake of causing trouble in my town. It’s my duty as son of House Albarea and a champion of common sense to straighten them out.”

     “You lead the way, Jusis,” Rean said, hand on his own blade. The three marched into the backstreets, all the while the future Ashen Awakner was still trying to figure out just who these jaegers were and why it seemed so familiar to him.

(Bugbear Warehouse Headquarters)

     The plan was quickly coming to fruition. Everyone could feel it. The commander had assembled all of the men in the main garage area, all now wearing their full combat attire, turquoise-gray jackets and matching pants, brown shoulder guards and bracers covering their wrists, and violet steel-toed boots. Their helmets were the same colors, with a back drape covering the neck, finished off with goggles and a grey mouth cover.

     “Okay, boys, this is it! Our moment of triumph has arrived!” The commander announced. “We’re going to march right to the Central Square and state our demands for the whole city to see! We get our money, and the girl will be returned safe and unharmed! Everyone will know the name of Bugbear and that we are meant to be taken seriously!”

     “Ja!” The corps shouted out as one, raising fists and weapons in the air. This is the point where Bugbear took its place among the ranks of the premier corps in the world. Zephyr, Nidhoggr, and Red Constellation would have reason to be wary of them.        

     The commander smirked and turned to his adjutant. “Go and retrieve our prisoner. The show can’t start without its star after all.” The younger Jaeger saluted and made his way upstairs.

     He opened the door to find Fianna sitting there, still bound and looking annoyed. “Ah, my gracious hosts have arrived. Certainly took you long enough. I was getting ready to lodge a formal complaint with management.” Secretly, Fianna successfully picked her cuffs and got free, but had set it up to look like she was still completely helpless. The sardonic remark was her way of keeping calm and getting focused.

     “Silence you!” The jaeger snapped, pointing his pistol right at her face. “We’re getting ready to move ahead with our plans. So you’re coming with us. Try anything funny and I have no problems roughing you up. Just because we need you alive doesn’t make you exempt from getting roughed up if I feel the need to do so!”

     “Oh dear, it appears that I’m totally in over my head then!” Fianna shot back, feigning mock despair. “Then I guess you’re totally at my mercy.” The Jaeger looked at her confusedly as she gave him a seductive smile and her left foot shot upward, burying itself square between his legs. He groaned and doubled over. Fianna let the cuffs drop and both hands struck him on the temples, and stunned the jaeger fell to the floor in a heap. Fianna stood up, and dusted herself off before rearing back to kick him in the head, fully knocking him out.

     “I’ll take that.” Fianna reached for the combat knife on his belt. She looked in surprise as she inspected her new prize. “Wow, this is actually in relatively good shape. I suppose you did at least one thing right.” She gave him a playful pat on the cheek. “Enjoy your nap!” Fianna strode out, closing the door with a loud slam. “And now I get to really have some fun!” Quietly made her way down the steps, knife in hand. She saw a pair of guards standing at the door.

     Picking up a couple of pieces of broken concrete and half of a brick, Fianna went back upstairs, throwing one of the debris scraps down the metal steps. “What was that?” One of the guards said, coming to investigate. She threw another chunk of rock down the steps and took refuge just behind the door. “We have a disturbance!” The guard quickly rushed up the steps. Fianna didn’t waste time, kicking open the door and hurling the brick with all she had, hitting him square in the chest. He groaned as the wind was knocked out of him. He tumbled back down to the landing.

     Fianna knew she had to hustle; they knew she was free and would be on her in seconds. She quickly ran down to the fallen Bugbear jaeger and took his combat knife off his belt. A squad of four Jaegers, armed with rifles and swords, hurried up the steps to find Fianna standing there, a blade in each hand, and an evil smile on her face. “Hello Boys! Let’s Dance!” With a piercing screech, Fianna leapt at them.

     The jaegers were taken completely by surprise, and Fianna was more than willing to exploit their shock, burying one of her knives square in the lead jaeger’s chest, before embedding the other right in his chin and up through his mouth. “Shoot her!” another jaeger screamed in terror as they all fumbled for their weapons, the narrow confines of the stairs not helping at all as they tried to get a bead on her.

     Fianna was an encroaching storm of death, her stolen combat knives flashing in the dim lights as she cut across the second jaeger’s right arm and both knees in a single swing, before jabbing it under his left armpit. “That’s two.” She said, throwing the dying jaeger into the third soldier who had started raising his gun. This threw off his aim, and he fired into the ceiling. Fianna threw out a side kick, sending both of them off the railing and falling to the next landing with a sickening, cracking thud.

     The fourth Jaeger dropped his gun, going for his own knife. “I’m not afraid of you!” He exclaimed with a false bravado, but Fianna was unimpressed.

     “Bold words, too bad your eyes betray you.” Fianna drawled. “You’re absolutely terrified, your knees are trembling. What was supposed to be an easy job has just turned into Gehenna on Earth for you. Then again, you guys were dumb enough to lay hands on the sole daughter of the Crimson Fox!” The Jaeger’s gasp said it all. And Fianna took advantage of his hesitation, lashing out with a roundhouse kick to his side. He growled and swung upwards, but Fianna easily evaded it, going in with her left-hand blade.

     The jaeger swung again, missed again as she dropped into the splits. Fianna came up, stabbing him in the thigh and elbowing him in the face. “Lights out!” She said, impaling the hapless jaeger in the throat as he fell to the floor dead. “Idiots.” She muttered, idly flicking the blood off her weapons. “I need to get out of here.”

(At the Same Time)

     It didn’t take them long to find the building in question. Rean, Jusis, and Fie already had their weapons out, walking in a straight line. “No guards outside. These guys clearly have no situational awareness if they don’t even have someone posted on watch.” Fie shook her head. “They’re a disgrace to the business.”

     “You could probably put these guys down by yourself with one hand tied behind your back,” Rean said, still feeling like this was familiar to him. They all came to a halt at the sound of panicked screaming and gunfire. “Looks like the party started without us!” He wasted no time, sheathing his blade and dropping into a low stance, taking a long breath with his eyes closed. Jusis watched expectedly, curious to see the Eight Leaves in action for the first time.

     “Eight Leaves, Fourth Form, Autumn Leaf Cutter!” Rean’s eyes snapped open in that moment, and with that, Rean moved faster than either Jusis or Fie could blink. There was a single cry, the sound of metal slicing metal, and the rolling door collapsed in four pieces, just in time for a body to go flying through the air between them. “Okay, wasn’t expecting that!” Rean commented, and they rushed in to find Fianna standing in the middle of the chaos, knives dripping blood, and quite a few of the Bugbear operatives were carved open, dead.

     “Oh, so nice of you to show up!” Fianna said, parrying a Jaeger wielding a rapier before neatly backhanding a Jaeger in the face, ducking under another clumsy swing of a heavy sword, before slicing along his thigh. “I was beginning to think I’d have to get myself out of this mess!” The trio said nothing, just wading into the fray. The Bugbear jaegers were panicking more than ever before. None of them expected there would be a prisoner to kick open the door, knives in hand and death in her eyes.

     “Stand your ground, men! Remember that absolutely nothing can stop Corps Bugbear!” The commander tried to sound brave, but there was no mistaking the sheer terror in his voice. And that’s when it clicked for Rean.

     “Bugbear? That horde of Jaeger rejects?” Rean spoke up, not wanting to believe his ears. It all came back to him in that moment, the time in the Nord Highlands and later the hijacked airship during the civil war, and how badly they got thrashed by a bunch of school children. “Oh wow, I almost feel sorry for them now!” He readied Ashen Void, and threw out a Crimson Slash at a couple of them. “We crossed paths with them before and beat them all senseless.” The Bugbear jaegers yelped, clumsily firing at the new arrivals.

     Rean easily dodged and weaved through them using Gale, before glowing fire gathered around his blade and dropped a Flame Impact on them. The remaining Bugbear operatives scattered, screaming and panicking full out. He further continued with a Helix strike, his tachi swinging multiple times and putting down four jaegers in one swing.  

     “It doesn’t appear that they’re that big of a threat!” Jusis said, his saber in hand, throwing out a rapid series of thrusts at a squad of the Bugbear Jaegers, knocking them if he could. He winced at Fianna gutting another Jaeger, before kicking the still-cooling corpse out the window. “And it appears Miss Merrigold is taking out her frustrations at being kidnapped on them. I don’t blame her, but I’d like to keep at least a few of them alive for questioning. It would be nice to know if they’ve done anything similar elsewhere.”

     A couple more of them went flying to the ceiling, courtesy of well-timed drop kicks courtesy of Fianna. Fie flashed out, shooting them in mid-air. She threw out a flashbang at the same time. Rean, Jusis, and Fianna made sure to cover their ears and shut their eyes as it went off, deafening everyone, and giving Jusis and Rean time to continue mowing down the wannabe jaegers.  

     “Get them! They’re just a bunch of kids!” The commander was rapidly losing control of the situation. Their prisoner, being a dangerous fighter, was one thing, but these three school kids? They were Bugbear! Some of the best in all of Zemuria! Right?

     Fie was actually impressed at the Flame Princess’s combat prowess, slowly making her way over to the redhead. “Wow, now that dance with the sticks really takes on new meaning!” Fie said, firing a few rounds to scatter the clumsy jaegers, even as Fianna elegantly flowed between a couple of riflemen, slicing at their wrists to get them to drop their weapons before kicking them in the head. “You’re absolutely lethal with those knives, aren’t you?”

     “And these aren’t even my regular weapons!” She indicated the combat knives. “I’ve got a very nice pair of custom daggers, Mom and Dad gifted me last year.” Fianna backflipped out of the way, while Fie slid underneath a jaeger’s legs, stabbing one of them in the calf and shooting another in the shoulder. “Too bad I was stupid enough to leave them back at the hotel!” She slashed at one of the Bugbear agents, who yelped as the tip of the knife managed to cut along the bottom of his knee. “I only have myself to blame for that! But I won’t make that same mistake again!”

     “Nobody’s perfect!” Fie remarked, a bloody gash into one guy’s arm before pointing Avenger square at his head and pulling the trigger, and the now-dead jaeger joined his comrades on the blood-soaked floor. She moved with a speed that few could match, and a natural grace in the air that even Fianna was impressed by. The Bugbear operatives not so much. Fie spun in the air, Avenger’s tips covered in blood.

     “It’s Sylphid!” One of the Jaegers barely managed. “What’s the Princess of Zephyr doing here?” Fie just glared at the poor guy, “What’s required of me,” Her voice was ice cold. This was Fie in full hunter mode, and once she was locked onto her prey, there was no escape. It was a reminder to Rean that was Fie’s usual mode before she came to Thors. 

     Rean made use of Gale once more, blowing between Jaegers, Ashen Void swinging left and right. The sword wielders were barely able to block as the tachi’s razor edge knocked their weapons away, and the riflemen were shooting at nothing but open air. He leapt into the air, aiming another Crimson Slash downward, slicing through the ever-thinning Bugbear ranks. The poor guys were absolutely demoralized at this point. Nothing had gone the way expected and now they were getting their collective asses kicked everywhere.

     Jusis, meanwhile, was putting on a clinic in Albrea Style Court Fencing. He had always been a perfectionist in everything he did, and this was certainly no different. His footwork was clean and precise without a single movement wasted, effortlessly gliding in and out of the melee. Every thrust was exactly where he aimed, nearly disarming his opponents with and his parries were but a flick of the wrist.

      He almost felt sorry for the hapless mercenaries. Because, despite their seeming incompetence, there was a possibility for them, an idea began forming in his mind. Hopefully, Fianna didn’t kill all of them beforehand.

     As for Bugbear themselves, they had enough. “Forget this! It’s worth it!” One of them shouted, throwing his sword down and running as fast as his legs could carry him. Taking the hint, his fellow remaining jaegers all broke ranks and started fleeing out of the ruined garage door, only to run headlong into Owen and a contingent of provincial army troops. “We surrender! Throw us in prison. Just get us away from those monsters!” one Jaeger said, practically throwing himself at Owen’s feet.

     The KPA commander looked on in a mixture of amusement and confusion when he saw Jusis, Rean, Fie, and Fianna all come out. Owen did his best to hide his smirk, but the look of pride said it all. “Very well then.” He said, directing his men to arrest the jaegers. Who all looked extremely relieved to be out of that nightmare. With that out of the way, Owen approached his lord. “Looks like you dealt with the situation quite handily, Lord Jusis. I see Miss Merrigold is alive and well?”

     “More than well, she had already broken herself out of captivity when we showed up.” Jusis put his hands on his hips. “If we had been a couple of minutes later, then she probably would have disposed of the entire corps by herself.”

     “Yeah, but I wouldn’t want to steal your moment of glory, Lord Albarea. Either way, thank you all for coming to help when you did, though.” Fianna groaned, stretching out her arms again. “Oh, not how I expected my morning to go, but I’m ready for a warm bath and a hot meal. Perhaps you and your companions would be willing to join me for dinner later?”

     “We may just take you up on that offer. I’m sure my uncle would be more than willing to host us.” Jusis said, turning to his fellow classmates. “Provided you’re not in any hurry?”   

     “I wouldn’t turn down a chance for a free meal,” Fie said, looking to Rean. “I can’t imagine you would either.”

     “We’d be happy to accept,” Rean said. Fianna then leaned in and kissed him lightly on the cheek. Of course, she had to get her teasing in somewhere. At least Laura wasn’t around to see it.

     “Then wear something nice, it’s only proper after all,” Fianna said, walking off. Rean just shook his head, ignoring the snickers coming from Fie, and even Jusis smirked. He sighed, stopping in that moment, reflecting on what this turn of events meant.

     Something that Fie caught on to. “What is it?” She asked.

     “It’s nothing,” Rean said, but neither she nor Jusis would hear it.

     “Don’t you dare say that to me.” Jusis sharply interjected. “Whenever someone says it’s nothing, then it usually means something is troubling you. If we are friends, then you share that.” Rean led Jusis and Fie to a corner of the alley.

     “I’m glad we were able to stop this, but something has been bugging me since we got here. I recall how things went the first time around.” Rean leaned in for emphasis. “And Fianna was not part of it. She was never with Arc-En-Ciel at all; it was just Ilya and Rixia who were the top stars. I don’t know where she came from, but it worries me greatly.”

     “Perhaps this is a consequence of your travel through time?” Jusis said. “I don’t proclaim myself any kind of expert on the subject, but certainly upending such a primal force as time would cause unexpected side effects. Things changing you couldn’t account for.” On a lot of levels, Rean knew it was correct. Jusis was a learned man with a very sharp intellect and a healthy dose of common sense. It was all too possible this was exactly what happened.

     “Which means my knowledge of future events may not be as useful as I initially thought.” Rean ground his teeth. “And there’s no telling how much things may have changed. That’s something I may to ask Crow about later when I see him.”

(Later that night)

     The meal at Sorciere was a private affair; Hammond reserved the upper lounge just for Jusis and his friends. Fianna took it upon herself to pretty up the younger girl by taking her to get a new dress. It was colored a muted green, coming to just below her knees, and thankfully went with a pair of sensible flats. Rean hadn’t thought it possible at this point in her life to even get Fie into a dress, but she looked remarkably natural in it. Not to mention, Fianna had brushed her hair and even applied a slight bit of makeup, but not too much. Fie looked like a completely different person.

     “I still can’t believe I was forced into this!” She muttered under her breath as she fingered her hair. “Xeno and Leo would never let me hear the end of it!” Fie glared at Rean. “And I can only imagine what you’re thinking about!” The Ashen Chevalier just serenely smiled as he sipped some water. He could only imagine what Fie would look like once she had grown up a little bit, maybe grown her hair out some. Fie would be a natural beauty.  

     “I have no idea what you’re talking about, Fie. I think you actually look quite nice, and I’m fairly certain Rutger and the other guys would agree with me.” He said.

     Fie just rolled her eyes as she moved in on her meal. At least the food was good, a far cry from the slop in the mess tent or even worse, week-old MREs. “So what’s going to happen to those Bugbear dorks?” She asked as she cut into the fried halibut she had ordered. “I mean, they sure bit off more than they could chew.”

     “They’re being moved to Fort Aurochs for the foreseeable future,” Jusis replied, putting some butter on a roll. “They’ll probably end up serving some prison time, but I imagine they’ll get out before too long.” Rean’s expression darkened slightly. Not because Bugbear was a threat, but let’s not worry ourselves with such things. This is a time to enjoy ourselves, so eat as much as you desire.”

     Fianna herself was in a sizzling ankle-length number, colored a brilliant red with gold accents. She had tall four-inch heels also in gold. Her jewelry was minimal, a gold bracelet and a necklace that contained what appeared to be a ruby fox pendant. It was sleeveless, revealing her toned, fit arms and her flawless back. She was making quick work of a well-crafted fruit salad. “I’ll give your uncle credit, Lord Jusis, he is a spectacular chef. The food is some of the best I’ve ever had!”

     Jusis beamed. “That’s the highest compliment you can give him, Miss Merrigold. He’ll be very pleased to know his food is so appreciated.” He looked over his shoulder to see Hammond with his arms folded and his usual stern expression, but if he looked close enough, he could see his uncle’s lips twitch upward just slightly. 

     “I’ll second that. The food may be high quality, but it tastes just like my mom’s own home cooking.” Rean thought of Lucia; he really did yearn for it in that moment.

     “Mine as well. Mom is an extremely busy woman, but she always found time to cook dinner for Dad and I.” Fianna’s hand went to the fox head-shaped pendant around her neck. “Joining Arc En Ciel has always been a dream of mine, and I moved out to Crossbell to be there. But there’s a part of me that always misses our humble little house outside of Heimdallr. That will always be home.”

     “Good to know you aren’t forgetting where you came from, Miss Merrigold.” Master Ka-Fai remarked, nursing a very fine Remiferian craft beer. “It’s the simple things in life that are the real treasures. It’s something that all four of you kids can take to heart.”

     “Will General Artorum be joining us?” Fianna asked as she took a roll from the basket that had been passed around. “I do recall inviting him to this little gathering as well.”

     “He’ll be along soon enough. The amount of paperwork this whole attempted kidnapping incident created was going to take him a while to burn through, but he said he’d be along soon enough.” Jusis trailed off at the sound of footsteps coming up the stairs. Owen had arrived, but he hadn’t come alone. Along with a coterie of Provincial Army soldiers were two dignified-looking men.

     One was tall and dignified with long blonde hair tied in a ponytail, and pale blue eyes. He wore a double-breasted overcoat colored a deep basil green, trimmed in gold with khaki pants and tall brown lace-up boots. He carried himself with poise and eloquence, and a warm smile to Jusis. “Good evening to you, brother dearest. I trust you’re enjoying yourself?” Rean’s eyes narrowed slightly as Rufus Albarea, Jusis’s older brother spoke. He eyed Fianna, who playfully waved at him. “And what company you keep?”

     “Uh, yes, brother.” Jusis quickly found his voice. “Everyone, this is my older brother, Rufus Albarea.” He said quickly.

     “So nice to make your acquaintance then, Lord Rufus.” Fianna drawled. 

     “Ah, so this is the lovely Flame Princess of Arc En Ciel?” He walked over and gently kissed Fianna’s hand. “It’s nice to finally meet you in person, Miss Merrigold. I’m sorry I was unable to attend your performance yesterday, but I’m afraid this is the price you pay for being nobility, constant work, and all. But someone has to do it.” Rean held his head up as Rufus directed his gaze to him. “And to you, other friends as well, I welcome you to our fair city.”

     “The honor is ours, Lord Rufus.” Rean stood up, offering a classic bow to the elder son of House Albarea. “My name is Rean Schwarzer. I believe you know my father.”

     “Ah, so you’re Teo’s boy! It’s been so long since I’ve been to Ymir.” Rufus looked positively delighted. “I trust the Baron and his wife are well then?”

     “Very much so, Lord Rufus. I’ll be more than willing to send them your well wishes in my next letter to them.” Jusis couldn’t help but approve of how smoothly Rean fell into the familiar role. Even if he wasn’t a true son of the Schwarzer family, Rean clearly had paid attention during his etiquette training. He cleared his throat. “And let me introduce you to my other companions, this is my master Yun Ka-Fai.”  

     Rufus arched an eyebrow. “The legendary Sword Hermit of the Eight Leaves? Well, this is quite the occasion,” he bowed slightly to the older man. “It’s a true honor to meet a swordsman of your renown, Master Ka-Fai. I imagine Rean has flourished under your tutelage.” Rean looked a little bashful even as Fie elbowed him in the side and Fianna giggled. The master just took another sip of his beer.

     “Indeed, he has. It’s amazing how far he’s come in the past few months, even, but the path of the blade is one that never truly stops, it’s an ongoing mission to improve one’s self, and I’m sure you can appreciate that yourself, Lord Rufus?”  

     The other man then cleared his throat. He was middle-aged, with greying blonde hair cut short, and a well-groomed thick mustache. His brown eyes carried a heavy air of disdain. Like Jusis and Rufus, he wore a green jacket trimmed in gold with tassels and white trousers, with a red sash around his shoulder, indicating his status as the leader of one of the four houses. Duke Helmut Albarea looked extremely annoyed at even having to be here.

     “Are we quite finished with this mincing?” The condescending tone in his voice made the entire mood shift as Helmut threw an irritating glare at his youngest son. “I’m supposed to be attending a meeting in Heimdallr, but then I find we have jaegers here?” He bit out that word like a curse. “Not to mention, you had them arrested? You should have shot them all on sight!” His gaze then shifted to Fie. “And you have the unmitigated gall to break bread with one of those filthy guns for hire?”

     Fie looked nonplussed, just taking another roll. “Oh, so you know who I am, then?”

     “Of course I do!” Helmut scoffed. “The daughter of that lowlife mercenary scum who dares call himself a king? Rutger Claussell only rules a kingdom of blood and death, and it’s all you will inherit!” Rean’s eyes narrowed at the duke’s words, he quickly side-eyed Fie, who, despite her usual dull stare, was slowly reaching for the butter knife on her napkin.

     “Now see here, father!” Jusis sprang to his feet. “I may have only known her for a day. But I owe Fie a great debt for bringing the whole mess with Bugbear to an expedient end. Her skill was a huge asset. It’s a disservice to speak about a capable ally in such a manner.” Fie’s respect for Jusis went up a few notches. It made Rean think of when Jusis told off his Helmut that, despite his personal animosity with Machias, he was still a classmate and would have Jusis’s support no matter what.

     “Pah! As if the rest of them are any better? Like a commoner who plays at being a noble and wields a heathen blade?” Helmut just turned up his lip in disgust as his eyes fell on both Rean and Master Ka-Fai. “A true noble son of Erebonia would never sully themselves in such a manner! Your father is an insult to the whole aristocracy to let that deluded old man fill your head with his foreigner claptrap!”

     Rean had a strong desire to go Ashen Ogre on the man and show him just what that foreigner claptrap could really do to him. But the Sword Hermit beat him to the punch, just letting out a low, hollow laugh. “And yet this commoner still has more nobility in his thumb than you do in your entire body, Your Grace.” He added a heavy dose of sarcasm. “It’s just typical noble double talk; you don’t mean a single word of it.” The old master’s eyes took on a steely quality. “Because if you truly did value your blue blood so much, then you would have cast out your own son long ago.” Master Ka-Fai pointed a gnarled finger at Jusis. “And we both know I’m right!”

     “Father.” Jusis didn’t want to believe it, but the way his sire looked at him, there was a place in his mind and heart that said Helmut Albarea would happily do it if he felt it would benefit him. 

     The air was heavy at that point and then Rufus stepped in. “Father please, Jusis makes a very valid point. It’s a bad idea to get on the bad side of those who have done a public service for our great city.” He gave an apologetic gaze to his brother and his guests. “It would be very beneficial to have them in our good graces.” The Duke of Kreuzen just grunted, turning on his heel before departing the lounge. Rufus cleared his throat, bowing deeply to them.

     “Please forgive our father, he went over the line. But rest assured you are always welcome here in Bareahard.” Rufus looked to Jusis. “You have made good friends, Jusis. Treasure them always. Now if you’ll excuse me I have other matters to attend to.” Rufus bowed and departed. Dinner resumed at a far muted pace, but Jusis was absolutely livid. He understood better than anyone the value of cultivating strong relationships.

     “The absolute nerve of that man!” He finally spoke up. “How dare he speak to the two of you in such a toxic fashion! Both of you proved your worth in that skirmish earlier. In my book, that makes the two of you solid allies.” Jusis looked to Rean and Fie with a new resolve. “I would gladly stand by you through any trouble. You can count on me being at Thors next year. Because I refuse to let anyone speak to those, I consider my friends that way, even my own blood!”

     Rean felt vindicated in that moment. Helmut had unknowingly pushed Jusis right into the Class VII fold. It was a harsh way of going about it, but now Jusis better understood the depths of his father’s own corruption. Still, he couldn’t help but feel sorry for his future classmate; the despair in his eyes was all too evident.

     It was Fianna of all people who got up and came to stand over Jusis, putting her hands on his shoulders and gently rubbing them. There was nothing flirtatious in this gesture; if anything, it gave Fianna the air of a caring older sister. “And that is true nobility in action right there. You are a far better person than your father could ever hope to be, Lord Jusis, so always keep that nobility in your heart. It will never fail you in the rough times. That’s what my father would say at least.”

     “Thank you for the kind words, Miss Merrigold,” Jusis said, grateful for the reassurance. Fianna gave him a light hug and sat back down.

     “Please, call me Fianna. All my friends do.” She looked to Rean and Fie. “And both of you can do the same as well. We all shared a deep moment in that little throwdown.” She held up her glass. “It can’t be taken away from us.”

     “Got that right, sister,” Fie said, and they all held their glasses up and clinked them together in a small toast.

     “I wasn’t expecting things to go this way, but it all came together rather well if you ask me,” Rean said as they finished the entrees, and dinner was brought out. He sighed. “It will be about time for us to get back on the road again. Even if your brother vouches for us, it’s probably not a good idea to hang around here too long.”

     “Sad but true, I’d worry about your safety.” Despite his somber nature, he did regard Rean with a look of gratitude. “I am glad we were able to meet, Rean Schwarzer. I truly never had a friend my own age before, and judging from the sound of things, I’ll make a few more in this Class VII. So I’m eager to see it for myself. Let me ask you, where will you go from here?”

     “There’s still five more of our classmates we need to check in on. I have no idea where Millium might be, but I know Elliot and Machias are in Heimdallr, and Crow is in Trista. He’s actually part of the prototype class meant to see if this whole idea of the Prince will work in the first place. Aside from that the only one left is Gaius, and he lives in Nord, so I guess we’re heading up north to the Highlands.”

     “Oh really?” Fianna leaned forward. “Then you won’t mind if I tag along, then? My father is up in the highlands for work, and I haven’t seen him in a very long time, so I may as well surprise him.”

     “I don’t have a problem with that,” Rean said. “But what about your tour for Arc-en-Ciel? I’m sure you have other performances, and I wouldn’t want you to miss it.”    

     Fianna just waved it off. “Oh, don’t worry about that. After this whole drama, I need a little break. I’ll speak to my agent when I return to the hotel, and we’ll get it all worked out.”

     “This just gets more and more interesting.” Fie leaned in. “I can’t wait to tell the boss about this!”

(Fort Aurochs, Early the Next Morning)

     The remaining half of Bugbear had been transferred to the dungeons at Fort Aurochs during the night. Their gear stripped from them, they were all looking a little smaller, but their egos hadn’t dissipated any. “Man, this blows!” A voice echoed through the cell as one of the would-be jaegers kicked at the wall. “I can’t believe we got put in here by a bunch of punk ass kids! The commander’s dead, and so many of our buddies are. This isn’t the end! When we get out of here, we’ll show them what Bugbear is really made of!” The sentiment was shared by many.

     “And then what happens? We get our asses kicked again?” The room went silent at those words. All eyes went to the jaeger lying in the corner. He stood up slowly. His black hair was unkempt, and his green eyes held nothing but irritation. “What makes any of you guys think that things will turn out differently? Need I remind you that the only reason we all banded together is that none of the other jaeger corps wanted us for being too incompetent?”

     “Easy for you to say, Wolfe. You managed to make it into Red Constellation! Not all of us had the luxury of hitting the big time so quickly!” Another shot back.

     “And it was the biggest mistake of my life!” The jaeger named Wolfe snapped, causing the other jaeger to shrink back. His eyes held intense anger, but also a deep sadness. “If I could take back any choice I made, it would be leaving home to join Orlando’s little cavalcade of thugs! I really hoped this would be a fresh start for me, that I could actually use my skills for some good. But it’s just more pain. Open your eyes, people! No one wanted us, no one! We probably deserve this fate, if humiliation is all we’re going to be served.”

     “Do you truly believe that?” The jaegers of Bugbear all looked up to see Jusis enter the room, his steps smooth and deliberate. “Because if you do, then you’re selling yourselves short. Whatever your perceived shortcomings might be, perhaps all you need is the right person to lead you.” Jusis kept his posture straight, but relaxed, his ice blue eyes sweeping over all of them. “Which of you is the one in charge here? I’ll speak to him.” The wannabe soldiers for hire all looked to each other before looking to the black-haired mercenary. He stepped up to the bars, looking the young noble square in the eye. “I trust you know who I am?”

     The mercenary folded his arms and nodded. “You’re Lord Jusis Albarea, son of Duke Helmut Albarea. Yeah, I know who you are, and not surprised that you and your friends thrashed us the way you did. I’m Sergeant Kirk Wolfe, acting commander of Bugbear, not that it matters much right now.” He leaned in close to the bars. “Just get right to the point, what do you want with us?” Jusis was unfazed by the glare Kirk gave him. The scion of the Albarea family merely gave his own firm stare back. Kirk noticed there was no disdain or contempt, but rather empathy.

     Jusis then smirked. “Straight to the point, I like that. Yes, you’ll do quite nicely. There’s potential there, and perhaps for the rest of your men as well. In many ways, you should be lucky it was me you came up against and not my older brother or my father. Especially the latter because he would have had all of you executed on sight. However, I am not my father. I’m here to give you a choice. You can either continue to follow your stubborn pride, and rot here in these cells for possibly the rest of your lives, because there’s no way in Gehenna I would let you out, or you can work for me and maybe make something of yourselves.”

     More than a few of Bugbear had gotten nervous when Jusis mentioned execution, but if there was a way out, then they would take it. “Keep talking,” Kirk said. He still wasn’t entirely convinced at this point, but he’d at least listen to Jusis’s pitch. It couldn’t be any worse than the ridiculous drek their previous commander had sold them about how they would become legends one day, and look where it got them.

     Jusis began walking up and down the cells, his gaze not breaking from any of the imprisoned soldiers. “I am all too aware my status as a noble projects a negative image, that all we care about is enjoying the luxuries of our station and acting like the rest of the world doesn’t matter. And yes, many other nobles are like that.” Jusis turned sharply to them. “But I am not like other nobles. Noblesse Oblige, nobility obliges, that means as a noble I have a responsibility to all those on my family’s lands. It’s why I stood against you in rescuing Miss Merrigold, and now that extends to you as well.”

     He hesitated a little, recalling the events of last night. “Recent occurrences have forced me to re-evaluate my position here in this province. I never really thought about it, but I really don’t have any real power or authority. After thinking about it, I want to hire Bugbear on a permanent basis.” The Jaegers all perked up, having a noble as a patron, and one of the Four Great Houses no less? They’d be set for life. “Rest assured, you will all be paid very well, and have access to the best equipment available.” Jusis’s expression hardened. “In turn, the ridiculous stunts will stop, and you will commit to your training fully. I’m a fair man, but I expect all of you to take your duties seriously. That isn’t much to ask.”

     Kirk inclined his head slightly. “So we’d basically become your personal security force then?” Jusis nodded. He looked to the rest of Bugbear. Their earlier despondency was replaced by anticipation and a burning hope to make better of themselves. “It’s admittedly a very enticing offer, Lord Albarea, but if we agree to this, then I want it in writing. Even if we’re not very good jaegers, we are still jaegers, and this is basically a formal contract. So, I won’t agree to anything unless it’s on a printed page.”

     Jusis just reached into his coat and pulled out a sheet of paper and a pen. “I already had my lawyer draw it up.” He stuck both through the bars. “By all means, look it over, and then all it requires is your signature.” Kirk plucked the contract and pen out of his fingers and began reading it. One thing he was glad he picked up from Red Constellation was to ALWAYS read the contract. He read it twice just to be sure, and it all seemed pretty fair in his eyes. He looked at Jusis and then walked to the middle of the cell.

     Everyone surrounded him as he held the contract in the air. “What do you think, boys?” Kirk said loudly. “This is solid paying work. We just need to nut up and not follow any more delusions of grandeur.” He took a breath, speaking quieter now. “This is our best chance for success, and all we have to do is our job. I think we can manage that.”

     “It beats rotting in a cell for all eternity.” One Jaeger said. “Or getting shot!” Another added.

     Kirk looked to each of them; their decision had been made. He looked at Jusis and smirked. “Lord Albarea, you have a deal!” The Bugbear operatives let out a cheer as Kirk took the paper to the wall and put his signature on it.

     Jusis nodded in approval, turning to the Provincial Army soldier standing at guard. “Let them out. I’ll take responsibility for them now.” He spoke. The soldier looked a little wary, but he did as he was told and let the jaegers out. They all fell into step behind Kirk, and saluted their new commander.

(The Following Day, Bareahard Station)

     “A nine-hour trip to the Nord Highlands.” Fie yawned. “At least I’ll get a really good nap out of it.” All three of them stood on the train platform, waiting to catch an early train to Celdic, from there they would travel to the Vermillion Capital, Heimdallr, before catching another train that would take them up north to Roer, before the final leg of the journey all the way to Zender Gate, the beginning of the Highlands.

     “Glad you have your priorities straight, Fie.” Rean was checking a copy of the map he picked up at the ticket counter. Although it did make him wonder if they shouldn’t have some kind of entertainment for the long journey ahead of them. He had fond memories of playing Blade during the train rides to their field studies. Even if they didn’t have that, a simple deck of playing cards could give plenty of enjoyment. So Rean went back to the ticket counter, and sure enough, he found decks on sale.

     He walked back, flipping the box of cards into his hand before stuffing it into his pocket. Fianna approached him, wheeling a single suitcase. “Hello there, Fianna.” He said, taking note of her choice of attire, it was amazingly modest, a red short-sleeved shirt and white capris with brown ankle-length boots. She wore the fox pendant from last night, the brilliant red stone gleaming in the morning sun. “That’s a beautiful piece of jewelry.” He tried making conversation as the two of them approached where Fie and Master Ka-Fai were sitting. “Is that a fire quartz?”

     “Yes, it is!” Fianna’s fingers ran over it, her blue eyes a shining contrast to the brilliant ruby sheen of the elaborately cut crystal. “It was a gift from my dad for my ninth birthday. So, it holds a lot of value to me. He actually had it made right here in Bareahard.”

     “He must care a lot about you then,” Rean said, grateful to know that Fianna had a stable home life. “It must have worried him greatly to let you go all the way to Crossbell to join Arc En Ciel.”

     Fianna shook her head. “Both of my parents have been nothing but supportive of me. My mother was even tickled by the fact that I wanted to use her maiden name as my stage name. They both agreed it would give me an extra layer of protection when I was outside the confines of the Empire. Both of my parents are very influential figures, despite Bugbear’s failures, there are plenty who would probably try to kidnap me and gain some leverage.”

     Her hand went back to the fox pendant. “That comes with being the daughter of Mark Lamperouge, I suppose.”