Chapter Text
It was the final day of march in the year 1204 of the Septian calendar and in the centre of the Erebonian Empire, one of the largest and most powerful countries known to Zumeria. Events that would shape the future of the continent began to unfold.
Just east of the Empire’s capital city, Heimdallr a train sped along the rails. Inside the train were various teens and young adults all dressed in a mix of green and white uniforms. But standing out from all of them was a girl with long flowing, ebony-coloured hair, dressed in a red uniform complimented by a pale green, chequered skirt and her legs covered by a set of long black thigh-high tights and a pair of brown heeled shoes. This girl was Rena Schwarzer.
I wonder how much longer it will take to arrive… Rena thought, absently looking out of the train window, watching the vibrant green landscape roll past. It’s not even that longer than the trip I would usually be taking but… Rena placed her hand on her chest, I suppose my nerves are making it feel even longer.
Left with few options the girl inhaled a deep breath in an attempt to calm her nerves, Just like Master taught me. Rena exhaled and she felt her heart rate begin to relax, I made my decision and I must follow through, Rena thought as she smoothed out a bit of her hair, relaxing back into her seat.
After a few minutes passed one of the workers on the train spoke up over an intercom announcing the train’s next stop at the town of Trista was approaching and that anyone getting off at the station should prepare now. Dutifully following the instructions, Rena left her seat, grabbing her only belonging as she left.
By the time she reached the door, the natural landscaped in the windows disappeared, being replaced by the stoney interior of the station as the train slowed to a stop and the doors opened. Woah… Rena internally muttered as she looked around the station which was quickly being flooded by other students, I knew things would be different but… It’s still strange to see... Rena shook her head, No sense worrying about now.
Rena made her way out of the station, thanking the workers as she passed, finally stepping out into Trista, her home for the next two years.
“Oh-” Rena whispered, her eyes going wide as she got to look at the town that was covered in a flurry of white petals coming off the nearby trees. “Lino flowers… I didn’t know there could be so many in one place…” Rena’s eyes sparkled and her lips curled into a small smile, “It’s… so pretty. And the town seems so… peaceful.”
I think I’ll like it more than I thought-
“Wah!”
“Ah!”
Rena and an unfamiliar voice shrieked as Rena felt someone collide into her back, quickly turning around, she saw a girl with long bright blonde hair on the ground. “Ouch…” The girl muttered, her eyes clenched shut.
“Oh no. I am so sorry.” Rena apologised, feeling a pang of guilt shoot through her chest. “I shouldn’t have been so careless, I was just… distracted.”
Rena held her hand out to the girl, silently offering to help her up. The girl opened her eyes and looked up at Rena with a soft smile, “Don’t worry about it.” The girl giggled as she took Rena’s hand and was pulled to her feet. “I should have been keeping an eye out too. It’s not like you just suddenly appeared there.”
“Still-”
“I mean it. We were both distracted by the pretty flowers so we were both at fault.” The blond-haired girl reassured Rena.
“Very well…” Rena said with a reluctant sigh, taking a step to the side away from the entrance. “It really is beautiful here, it almost reminds me of somewhere you would see on a postcard.”
“I was just thinking the exact same thing.” The girl chuckled, “It’s hard to believe this is the town people train to become soldiers.”
Rena nodded, feeling herself ease up as their conversation continued. “I suppose looks can be deceiving.”
As a couple more students exited the building, Rena and the other girl wordlessly agreed to move out the way, making their way down to the small park in the centre of town where another student with silver hair was napping on one of the benches at the far end.
“So are you sure everything is okay? Nothing in your bag was damaged?”
“I’m telling you to stop worrying about it. Everything is fine.” The girl said, puffing her cheeks into a playful pout. “Anyway so… I notice you have a red uniform too.”
“I do.” Rena gave an affirmative nod, “I was a little worried on the journey here since everyone else seemed to be in green and white.” Rena shyly moved a lock of her behind her shoulder, “It was a relief to see some other students wearing them as well.”
“Honestly I hadn’t really thought about it much until now but… Now that you mention it, I have seen a few others so it can’t be a mistake or anything.” The blond girl’s face lit up with a wide smile, “Oooh, maybe that means we’ll be classmates.”
“Hmm…” Rena hummed in thought before her own expression lit up in a similar manner, “That… Would be nice.”
“Heh, totally!” The girl took a step away from Rena, “Anyway, I better get going. I need to go talk to someone before the entrance ceremony.”
“W-Wait!” Rena exclaimed, reaching her arm out towards the girl who turned back looking at Rena with a confused stare. Rena froze up briefly but quickly recovered and returned to her usual calm, formal posture. “I-I mean excuse me. W-Would it be alright if I ask for your name?”
The girl tilted her head, her confusion only intensifying but she soon rolled her eyes with an amused look replacing her confusion. “Sure! I’m Alisa. It's nice to meet you.”
“It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance as well. I’m Rena Schwarzer, I hope we get along.” Rena responded, giving a short formal bow to Alisa.
Alisa stayed silent for a moment, “Hey are you a…” Alisa shook her head, “You know what never mind. I’ll catch you around. I’ve really got to go.” With that, Alisa turned around and started to jog out of the park and down the path towards the school off in the distance.
“Goodbye,” Rena exclaimed as she was left alone. Hmm… I believe I still have some time left before the entrance ceremony… Maybe I’ll look around for a little bit. Rena spent the next few ten minutes walking around the town, talking to the various shopkeepers preparing for business, all of whom kindly welcomed her to the town.
Once satisfied, she made her way up the path Alisa ran up and along the way saw a few other students wearing a red uniform from a very tall tan boy exiting the chapel to a well-built girl with long blue hair who was talking to a butler. That girl must be a noble too… Rena thought as the girl and butler went their separate ways, Rena following the other girl at a short distance. I guess I should not be surprised given the prestige but still…
As she reached the gates a car horn echoed out behind her, moving to the sides a green limousine drove past and entered the school grounds. Shortly after a boy with short blonde hair stepped out and after a short conversation with the driver he made his way into the building, with that the car turned around and drove past Rena finally allowing her to enter.
“Welcome to Thors Military Academy!” A soft, cheerful voice called out as a young girl that was surprisingly shorter than Rena and a large older boy walked in front of Rena. The girl looked over Rena with an inquisitive stare, soon giving off a bright beaming, proud smile, “Yep! You’re the last one. So if I’m right that means you’re Rena Schwarzer?”
“A-Ah yes I am.” Rena once again performs a short, formal bow, “Um… Why do you know who I am?”
“It’s a loooong story.” The brown-haired girl giggled, “But don’t worry about that for now. We just came to help you get ready for orientation.”
The boy next to her nodded along and held out his hand, “Is that your weapon wrapped up? Mind handing it over for the time being?”
“Hmm?” Rena hummed in thought, “Oh, I remember the guide mentioned it would be taken…” She carefully removed the covered sword and handed it over to the boy. “Please take good care of it.”
“No worries. You’ll get it back in no time, I bet you won’t even realise it’s gone.”
“I am pleased to hear that,” Rena said, the relief apparent in her voice.
“With that sorted, you better get to the entrance ceremony. It’s in the auditorium juuuust over there.” The small girl pointed over to a large building a short distance away. “And I hope you have a great first day.”
“Hopefully the next two years will be a fruitful time for you.” The boy said with his own welcoming smile.
Their welcoming attitude helped ease any lingering tension Rena had. “Thank you both, I appreciate the assistance.” Rena turned back and saw a few other students approaching so not wanting to block the oath she started to make her way over to the building she was directed to. She briefly looked back and saw both students welcoming the next person that approached, Hmm… So those must be second years… They seem welcoming at least but I wonder how they knew me and… What did they mean by last?
The ebony-haired girl shook her head, deciding she’d find out soon enough. After entering the auditorium one of the teachers guided Rena over to a seat next to a red-headed boy dressed in a uniform that matched her’s. As the last few students filtered in, Rena looked around the room and noticed a handful of other students in the red uniform scattered amongst all the green uniforms with the white uniforms of the school’s nobles sitting at the front.
There’s a fair number of people dressed like this… Rena pondered, her eyes landing on Alisa who gave the girl a brief wave which she happily returned. Before she could think of it more the principal of the school, Vandyck walked onto the stage and started delivering a welcome speech to the new students, talking about how the school was formed by Emperor Dreichels and their goal to prepare them all not just for military service but to lead the future of Erebonia.
“Go forth, my students. The world awaits the great things you will one day accomplish.” Vandyck finished his speech, prompting applause from the gathered students and faculty.
“Become the foundation of the world…” Rena quietly murmured the school’s motto under her breath.
“No pressure, right?”
“Huh?” Rena looked to the side and saw the red-headed boy leaning closer to her. “You are not wrong.” Rena said, stifling a giggle, “But as this school was founded by the Lionheart Emperor we do have a legacy to live up to.”
“I guess you’re right. I just hope it won’t be too intense.” The boy joked with an easygoing smile, “I’m Elliot Craig, It’s nice to meet’cha.”
“I’m Rena Schwarzer,” Rena politely responded. “It’s nice to meet you, especially as we seem to be matching.” Rena subtly gestured to their uniforms.
“Yeeeah about that… I was wondering if you have any clue what the uniform means. I’ve tried asking around and no one knows but…” Elliot looked around the crowd, a small grimace across his face, “There’s clearly something going on.”
“I agree…” Rena trailed off. The uniforms show which class you’re in… But it doesn’t seem like everyone with these uniforms are noblity and there are so few but even still…
“Hey? Is something wrong?” Elliot questioned, waving his hand in front of Rena, snapping the girl back to reality.
“O-Oh sorry… T-That was rude of me-”
“It’s okay. Did you think of something?”
“Uuuh…” Rena nervously glanced off to the side, “Possibly but… I think it would be better for us to be told-”
“And that brings us to a close for Thors two-hundred and fifteenth entrance ceremony.” An older, refined-looking man suddenly spoke up, his arms crossed with a sneer on his face. “Now please proceed to the class designated in the guidebook. Once you arrive you will be informed of the school rules and curriculum.”
Wasting no time, all the students stood up and quickly began to filter out of the room… All except the nine students dressed in red.
“I don’t remember there being a class in the guidebook…” Elliot muttered in concerned confusion.
“Agreed. I assumed they would tell us our class after the ceremony.” I suppose even how things run differ…
“Heeey!” An overly cheerful voice echoed through the room as a woman with reddish pink hair waved her arms in the air. “Can I have the attention of all our wonderful red students?” The woman paused for a second waiting for all eyes to land on her, “Perfect! Now I’m sure you’re all confused thinking ‘Where’s my class assignment!?” well don’t worry… You guys just have a biiiiit more of a complicated situation. But don’t worry if you’ll all just follow me for a special orienteering exercise, everything will be made clear.”
The Instructor’s words sent a wave of confused mutterings and questions from all the students, who only seemed to be more confused than they were before she spoke up. “Please, save all questions for when we arrive. Now please follow me~” The instructor sang, making her way towards the exit of the auditorium.
The remaining students all stood there, completely taken aback by the older woman’s actions but after a moment passed and it was clear this was not a joke they all let out a collective sigh and began to follow the instructor. Once they caught up to her, she guided them around the back of the school, down a long windy path leading to a large, dark and dilapidated building.
A couple of the other people in the group attempted to question where they were going but their teacher just ignored them, happily humming the entire time. Much to everyone’s collectively growing frustration as the door to the building was unlocked and they all entered.
“Brrr-” Rena felt an ice-cold shiver run up her spine as she entered. What is this feeling… It almost doesn’t feel natural…
“Alright then, so my name is Sara Valestein.” Sara finally introduced herself, having moved up to a raised platform in the room. “I’m the instructor of Class VII, which means you all get the pleasure of seeing me all year.” Sara placed a hand on her hip and her expression brightened up, “Glad to finally meet you all.”
“Class VII…” A boy in the back grimly muttered.
“I… Don’t remember hearing about this in enrollment.” The girl Rena saw early mused aloud.
“Um… Instructor.” A beautiful-looking girl with long braid hair and glasses spoke up. “I thought there were only five classes. That were split up between social class and home region so-”
“Right you are Miss Top Scorer.” Sara interrupted, “Which was the case… Until THIS year! Where we decided to mix things up with a new Class fittingly called… Class VII. Which unlike the other classes makes no distinctions between Commoners and Nobles.”
“Now hang on just a second!” The boy from earlier suddenly roared, marching forward to the head of the crowd, ending up right next to Rena. “No one mentioned a thing about this to me! Are you seriously expecting me to rub shoulders with some stuck-up hedonistic nobles for a whole year!”
Rena flinched from the noise the boy was making, taking a small step away.
“Right so… Machias was it, will you please calm down and lt me-?”
“No, I will not calm down,” Machias growled, not even attempting to hide his frustration. “Not until you explain what is going on because this is completely ridiculous!”
Sara shook her head, followed by her staking a subtle step back on the stage, something Rena only barely caught. “Hey, don’t complain about it to me. I didn’t make the decision, besides you’re all kids so you should be able to get along, right?” Sara said, in an attempt to diffuse Machias’s anger all while taking another few subtle steps back.
“How can you expect me to get along with a no-”
“Oh, will you please be quiet.” The boy with blonde hair, whom Rena saw just before the ceremony spoke up, walking up to Rena and Machias, his glare fixated on the other boy. “You love to complain about us, hedonistic noble but it seems you’re the only one causing an issue.”
“Oh ho! It seems the Scion of a great noble house has graced us with his presence, please milord, tell me what is your name so I can address you properly.” Machias demanded in a mocking voice.
The blonde boy rolled his eyes and let out a weary sigh, “Jusis Albarea. I trust even you have heard of my family.”
The room fell silent, even Machias seemed taken aback by the member of one of the Great Noble houses being here… But that did not last long, “I-Is that meant to impress me? Because it doesn’t-”
“Alright! C-Can you both please calm down!” Rena exclaimed, raising her hands in hopes of stopping the two boys from arguing further.
“Ah-” Machias and Jusis’s eyes went wide as they finally realised Rena was between their shouting contest.
Rena took a deep breath, trying to call what she was taught years prior. “Please just calm down. I know you both have issues but if you stop shouting, I’m sure Instructor Sara will explain everything.” Rena said, in a calm and soothing voice. “There is no reason for this childish behaviour at this moment.”
A moment passed and both boys seemed to ease off.
“Apologies,” Jusis muttered, looking off to the side.
“Arg… I guess you’re right. I should at least hear what they have to say.” Machias grumbled before glaring up at Sara, “But if I don’t like what you have to say-”
“Yeah, yeah. Just cool your engine.” Sara dismissed, “And Thank you, Rena, I’m glad I didn’t need to step in.” Sara said, winking at the girl. “Now if you’re all ready, I’d like to begin your orienteering exercise so we can get on with the rest of our day.”
“You mentioned it earlier but… What is this orienteering?” Alisa hesitantly questions, briefly looking over at Jusis and Machias with a worried glint in her eyes. “Are we going to have to work together?”
“I’d assume so.” The girl in glasses spoke up. “Orienteering is an outdoor activity usually done in a group where you’re trying to find… something.”
“That’s correct, we’re going to put you all through a little trial~” Sara sang, as she took yet another step back until her back was right up to the wall.
“Wait…” Rena’s mind flashed to when she arrived and the two students’ cryptic actions as they took her Tachi. “Excuse me, is that why our weapons were taken when we arrived?”
“My, how polite.” Sara chuckled, “You got in it one. But don’t worry you’ll get them back soon. The fun is about to start~" Sara moved her hand over to the nearby wall, a sinisterly playful smirk forming on her face, “Oh and to say thanks for Rena’s help, I’ll give you all a word of advice… Make sure you land on your feet~”
Everyone shared a worried look as dread filled their chests. Suddenly a loud mechanical noise shook the building and the floor beneath them collapsed into a slide causing them all to fall onto their backs as gravity pulled them down.
“What?!”
“Waaaaah!”
“Eeeeek” Alisa screamed as she started to fall, without even thinking, Rena made her body slide over to the other girl and pulled her into a tight embrace as they were dragged down, the last sight Rena saw was another girl who seemingly avoided the trap being forced down into the darkness below by their instructor.
The fall was mercifully short and soon Rena collided with the ground, sending a brief wave of pain through her back as she was pinned to the ground by Alisa. Rena kept her arms far away from Alisa, not wanting to put her new friend into an even more awkward position.
As she recovered her bearings, everyone else began to groan in pain as they stirred and stood up.
“Urg…” Machias groaned, looking over his body for any injuries as he sat up. “What the hell happened…”
“I… Think the floor came out from under us.” The voice of the bespectacled girl added on in a surprisingly calm voice. “It all happens so fast it’s a little hard to tell…”
Rena finally opened her eyes and saw the Blue haired noble helping the tall boy get back onto his feet. “I can’t believe we fell for such an obvious trap.”
“I wouldn’t be too harsh on yourself.” The tan boy muttered as he was pulled up, “I doubt any of us expected there to be any catacombs under the school. Let alone we’d be dropped into them.”
“Mhmm.” The girl chuckled, “I suppose you have a point.”
“Hyup.” The small, young-looking silver hair girl exclaimed as she finished skillfully sliding down the hole, gracefully landing on her feet. “Well, this is annoying…” The girl sighed, moving past the group to her own corner of the room.
Rena was able to see a few more people getting up notably Elliot slowly staggering to his feet and Jusis glaring up the hole they fell through. Thankfully Alisa finally began to stir and come to her senses. This is… So awkward , Rena thought as her attention was brought back to her current situation, Great start to the year… Hopefully, she understands.
“Rrrg… What… Happened…” Alisa mumbled into Rena’s chest, her eyes slowly opening, “Wah- W-What’s going on?!” The Blonde hair girl exclaimed, pushing herself off the ground, allowing Rena to see Alisa’s bright red, flustered face seconds before Alisa leapt to her feet and avoided eye contact with Rena.”
“I-I am so sorry about this, I-I just wanted to try and protect you-” Rena exclaimed, feeling her own cheeks light up and embarrassment and shame built up inside of her.
“N-No it’s fine.” Alisa suddenly declared, still refusing to make eye contact. “I-I get what you were doing… A-And there’s no harm done… If anything I should be the one saying sorry, I can’t imagine how much that fall must have hurt.”
Rena shook her head, “P-Please don’t worry about it.” Rena said, falling back into a very formal attitude, “It was my actions after all.” Both girls continued to try and downplay and absolve the other in a strange back and forth until they were interrupted by a loud ringing sound.
Everyone in the room retrieved the orbment they were given along with the guidebook and as soon as they opened them, Sara’s voice came out. “Ah, perfect! I was a little worried you’d all ignore me.”
“I-Instructor?” Rena questioned.
“Got it in one, Kiddo. This is indeed my lovely voice.” Sara joked.
“W-Wait, how are you doing this?” Machias demanded, “Do they have some kind of built-in communication device?”
“Oooh, another correct answer. Man, you guys are on a roll~” Sara said in a sing-song tone. “These are the prototypes for a fifth generation of battle orbments called Arcus, made in collaboration with the Epstein Foundation and Erebonia’s own Reinford Company,” Sara explained carefully and simply. “Not only do they let you talk to one another and cast arts but there’s also a few hidden features~”
“W-Wait,” Alisa stuttered and stammered, “Are these seriously…” The girl cut herself off, shaking her head, “I mean what kind of hidden features?”
“Ah don’t worry about those right now.” Sara instantly dismissed, making it clear she wasn't going to answer any further. “For now, all the weapons you guys brought have been put down there alongside a Master Quartz for you to slot into your shiny Arcus units. So for your little exercise, I want you guys to get your stuff and… Get back upstairs! Simple right?”
No one in the group spoke up or had any objections, although Rena was unsure if it was because they all understood or if they were just so taken aback by their Instructor.
“Well if none of you guys have any questions. I’ll hang up now, I hope to see you all back here~” With that Sara's voice vanished, once again leaving them alone in the dimly lit room. Wordlessly they all began to splinter off towards the podiums around the room that had their weapon on top.
Finally… I was starting to worry. Rena thought as she picked up her Tachi and undid the wrapping around the sheath, I’d never b able to face Master again if I lost it. The Ebony-haired girl noticed a small box on the same pedestal which continued her Master Quartz, just as instructed she placed it into the large orb slot and a pale ethereal light surrounded her, filling her with strength.
Once everyone was prepared they met in front of the only way out of the room. “She really isn’t kidding about making us go through here… is she?” Alisa whispered, looking through the door, growls of monsters beyond the door echoing through.
Jusis broke away from the group and approached the doorway, “Hey! Where do you think you’re going!” Machias shouted, stopping Jusis from stepping beyond the door. “Were you seriously about to go off without saying a word.”
“Yes, I was.” Jusis bluntly stated, turning around to face the group. “I’ll be frank. I have zero intention of becoming friends with or working with any of you. As a noble, I have had plenty of training in court fencing so I am more than capable of handling whatever is down here.”
Jusis took a step closer to Machias, looking at the boy with a sneer, “Unless you would like my protection? I’m sure if you request it then even a ‘stuck-up hedonist noble’ like myself will gracefully aid you-”
“Oh shut up!” Machias roared, marching up to Jusis, “Like hell, I’d ever request help from someone like you! I have half a mind to-”
“Will you both please stop!” Rena exclaimed, walking into the middle of the group. Taking a deep breath she looked at the two boys with a stern but gentle glare, “All this arguing won’t help us in any way.” Rena nervously gulped as everyone’s eyes fell on her, “I know… You both have issues. But we need to get out of here and that’ll be easiest if we all go together.”
Rena finished speaking, she glanced around at everyone hoping to gauge the reaction but they all seemed… stunned. The tense atmosphere was soon broken by a loud sigh from Jusis, “A worthy sentiment. But ultimately it will be fruitless,” the noble looked towards Machias, “If we cannot trust each other we will do more harm than good. So you all may do as you wish and so will I.” Jusis turned around and once again began to walk down the path all on his own.
“I’m with him.” The mysterious silver-haired girl said running up, “I just don’t do well in groups. I’ll get through it faster on my own. Good luck.” The girl bluntly stated before dashing through the doorway.
“W-Wait…” Rena trailed off, her voice getting weaker as she clenched her fists in frustration over everyone seemingly ignoring her attempts to calm the situation. This is not going how it should…
“I for one thing it is a wonderful idea.” Rena was snapped out of her thoughts by the blue hair noble, “Originally I would have suggested splitting up but… We are in the unknown. Working together will greatly improve our odds.”
Hearing the girl’s words helped Rena feel more at ease, especially as everyone else added their own voice of agreement. All except Machias who stood there with a contemplative look, “Well? What about you?” The girl with glasses asked the stubborn boy.
“Arrrg…” Machias let out a long exhausted sigh, “I… Have no objections. I shouldn’t let that stuck-up jerk god me so much so… to make it up to everyone… I can at least assist in getting us out.” Machias said, sending a wave of relief through the group. “But first and I know given how I’ve been acting I shouldn’t ask but… Can I ask what everyone’s social class is? I… Just want to know who I’m associating with, o-oh and of course, I’d like to know your names.”
Rena resisted the urge to roll her eyes at the boy’s question. Everyone shared a knowing look, all of them unsure how best to proceed. “I guess I’ll go first,” The tall tan boy broke the ice, “I’m Gaius Worzel and while I don’t fully understand what the issue is. Nord has no class system so I think we should be fine.”
“If we’re really doing this… I’m Emma Millstein and… And I’m from a small village in the middle of Sutherland Province.”
“Ah… I guess you’d be in the clear then.” Machias muttered, crossing his arms.
The blue-haired girl stepped forward next, “I am Laura S. Arseid. I trust my family needs no introduction.” Laura said with a proud yet honest smile. “I do not know what your issues with the nobility are. But I ask for the time you just treat me as a fellow warrior.”
Arseid… Rena’s eyes widened at the mention of the name, gently moving her hand to her chest, I can’t believe someone like that is here but… I’m glad.
“Arg.” Machias took a step back, “I-I said I would assist and… I won’t go back on my word. But… sorry in advance if I keep my distance.”
Laura solemnly nodded, “That is fine. As long as you are willing to put aside the issue until we are safe.” After Laura smoothed things over with the slightly on-edge Machias, Alisa and Elliot both introduced themselves to the group, Elliot happily announcing his parents are commoners while Alisa seemed a bit more… uneasy talking about her family but promised she’d cause no problems.
Finally, Machias’s gaze landed on Rena, “I know your name but… You know what I want to ask.”
“I do…” Rena trailed off, unease pricking at her beating heart. I don’t want to cause trouble by telling him but… I can’t lie. Rena looked over towards Laura, the confident aura coming off the girl and making her shrink. He was fine with her but… Everyone knows Laura’s family…
As her internal debate continued everyone looked on with a range of interest. Alisa soon stepped forward and gently placed her hand on Rena’s shoulder, “Hey if you don’t want to talk about it don’t feel you have to. It’s not this guy’s right to ask.”
“Eh-” Rena breathed out, her worries melting away from Alisa’s warm reassuring smile. “No… It’s fine. Everyone else has shared, it would not be right if I did not.” Rena stepped close to Machias, “My adoptive Mother and Father are the Lord of Ymir.” Rena confessed, her steeled nerve being put on edge. “While I do not have noble blood, I grew up amongst the nobility.”
“I see…” Machias muttered looking conflicted and unsure what to do with what she just told him. “I… kind of figured as much based on how you’ve been acting. But… I’m glad you were honest,” Machias sighed, “As I said I promised to assist so I say we just get moving and we get out of here.”
Rena felt the tension she worried about disappearing and with introductions finally complete, the group slowly filtered out through the room as their orientation truly began.
Almost seconds after leaving the room they were surrounded by a pack of Flying Felines, quickly jumping into action, Laura, Rena and Gaius drew their weapons and took to the frontline positions.
Thankfully despite their numbers, they were still wild animals and the three trained fighters were easily able to cut them down while protecting their classmates. Who were staying behind them providing invaluable support from Machias’s shotgun stopping too many of them from crowding in one place to Emma and Alisa’s surprising proficiency with offensive arts weakening or finishing off some of the animals and finally Elliots healing arts that got rid of any injury that were inflicted.
The first fight ended when the final Feline made a mad dash for Elliot and a split second before the animal’s claws tore into Elliot, Laura managed to get between them, blocking the attack with her sword, she threw the beast off allowing Gaius an opportunity to end it with a decisive blow with his spear.
“Phew… That was close. I didn’t expect there to be so many.” Elliot said in a shaky voice. He walked up to Laura and involved her in a soothing light “Thanks for the help.”
“Think nothing of it. I’m just glad I was able to reach you in time.” Laura responded, giving the boy a relieved smile. “While we are down here remember you can all count on me to protect you. Although…” Laura turned to face Rena and Gaius whose attention was focused further down the hall. “From the look of it, you two are more than a match for me. Your skills with your weapons are truly impressive, it’s truly an honour to see Nord Spearmenship and Eight-”
“P-please don’t make a big deal about it.” Rena cut Laura off with a troubled, almost guilty look, “I… I’m nowhere near your level. I’m… not that good in all honesty…”
“Likewise, you give me too much credit.” Gaius joined in sounding much more self-assured than the shorter girl. “I still have a long way to go before I can match up to my father or the other warriors.”
“Hmm.” Laura hummed, “If they are even more skilled than you, I hope I get to meet them someday.”
Gaius chuckled, “You flatter me-” The boy stopped talking and instantly drew his spear, turning down the corridor.
“You can sense it too?” Rena asked, her own weapon drawn into a combat stance.
“I can feel a foul wind coming for us,” Gaius said with a determined look.
“Everyone, please get ready.” Rena shouted as she took a step forward, “I have a feeling this will be more… relentless than we anticipated.”
And just as Gaius and Rena warned a small swarm of Grass Dromes, much to their frustration their physical attacks barely seemed to affect them however they were easily eliminated by Emma and Alisa’s arts. After clearing the monsters they continued on through the underground tomb with Gaius and Elliot falling into small discussions while Rena, Emma and Alisa all enjoyed talking to take their minds off the current situation. While Laura stayed at the front prepared for battle and Machias… stay at the back, seemingly keeping as much distance as possible between himself and the two noble girls. Occasionally along the way they ran into smaller groups of enemies that were much easier to dispatch as they got used to fighting together.
“Wait,” Rena said, raising her hand.
“Is there something ahead?” Emma asked, her voice sounding more exhausted since they began their trek.
“Are you kidding me!” Alisa exclaimed, stomping her foot on the ground in frustration. “How could a school let this many monsters live on campus.”
“Hang on, it’s not a monster,” Gaius reassured, putting his spear away.
“Wow. You two are good.” A barely familiar voice exclaimed with an impressed undertone. “I was sure no one would notice me.” The voice carried on as the source stepped out from the outcrop in the room.
“Oh hey, it’s the silver girl from earlier. It’s good to see you’re alright.” Elliot said with a relaxed smile.
“Fie Claussell. That’s my name.” Fie corrected, her stoic and stone-faced expression remaining unchanged. “And don’t worry about me, I’m small and quick. The things down here can’t even touch me.” The group all shared a look with each other while Fie simply shrugged and moved closer to the wall, “You guys are doing good, you’re about halfway now. Keep it up.”
“Hold on.” Laura shouted, “It seems as though you’ve made it further than us. Would you be able to show us the way? It’s getting harder to navigate this maze.”
“No can do.” Fie stated, shaking her head, “The… path I took is a little hard for you to follow.”
“And what exactly do you mean by that-”
Before Machias could finish his sentence the mysterious silver hair girl ran up one of the opposing walls before leaping off it and climbing up to the path above. “See. But don’t worry you’ll be here soon… Probably. Later.”
And with that Fia disappeared out of sight leaving the rest of the group awe-struck. “I… Suppose that’s one way to get out.” Emma said with a nervous laugh.
“It seems our class is going to be full of people that know what to do in these situations,” Rena mumbled with wide eyes. Did she honestly reach the end and come back just to help us… Rena let out a weak sigh and took a step forward. “Let’s hurry-”
Suddenly the faint but noticeable sound of fighting echoed through the room. Rena, Laura and Gaius all looked at each other silently agreeing that something was going on ahead, the three drew their weapons and dashed on ahead, leaving their confused companions behind. “H-Hey! Where are you guys going?!” Alisa and Machias yelled in unison.
The three quickly ran past all the other monsters, dodging or destroying them when needed until they climbed up a flight of stairs and saw Jusis in the middle of the next room completely surrounded by monsters. Before they had a chance to assist Jusis agility moved around and avoided the monsters, taking quick slashes and slices when the opportunity presented itself.
“Hiiiiya!” Laura shouted, joining the fray, brutally smashing a Flying Feline into a nearby wall with her sword. “Are you alright?”
“Huh? Oh, it’s you people.” Jusis bluntly, sidestepped a Grass Drome allowing Rena to follow up with a quick slash of her Tachi. “I told you, I don’t need any assistance.”
“You might not need it. But you cannot expect us to leave you alone.” Rena commented.
“Hmm… I suppose not. Well far be it from me to turn you down.” Jusis stopped and charged up his orbment, creating a small golden vortex in the middle of the room that forcefully dragged the remaining monsters together. “That should make it easier.”
Not wasting the opportunity Jusis gave them, Rena rushed in and unleashed her Autumn leaf cutter skill which allowed her to delivering dozens of small blows to the enemies that was followed up by Gaius unleashing a powerful torrent of wind pushing the group to the far edge of the room, giving Laura the opportunity to leap into the air crushing them all against the wall with her blade.
“Hmm. I must admit, that did go a lot smoother with your assistance.” Jusis remarked with the first smile Rena had seen on the boy since they met.
“You’re welcome. Though from the looks of it, you could have handled that yourself.” Gaius calmly responded while Laura made her way back to the group and Rena caught her breath.
“Perhaps. But court fencing is ill-suited to such large numbers so you certainly made it easier.”
“Grr-” A low aggressive and frustrated growl came from behind the four, they all turned to face whatever monster appeared… and were instead greeted by Machias and their companions. “Of course, it would be you…” Machias grumbled.
“Oh. I’m impressed.” Jusis remarked with a surprised expression. “Not only did you make it this far but after all your bluster and attitude you even work with other people. You have to be commended for that.”
“Ark! Like you’re one to talk. Unlike you, I didn’t just storm off and leave everyone by themselves.”
“Please. I left because I knew I had the skill to overcome this challenge by myself. Whereas you are simply a common man, it is only natural you would need assistance.”
“Y-You… You!” Machias said through gritted teeth. “Even among noble I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that the son of one of those stuck-up dukes would look down on us ‘unfortunate’ souls. You stuck up je-”
“Will you two please stop!” Rena yelled in a raised frustrated voice, getting between the two boys once again. The ebony hair girl took a second to recompose herself, taking a few deep breaths. “We know we’re near the end, can’t you just get alone-”
“NO!” Both boys declared followed by glaring at the other and turning away.
“I know you’re trying to help. But I barely want to work with you or Laura.” Machias spat, “I will not accept working with HIM!”
“For once I agree.”
“But… But…” Rena looked around the room and saw there were two leading out. “Okay… how about this. We split up from here.”
“Huh?” Everyone in the group looked towards Rena, causing the teen to steel her nerves.
“There are two paths.” Rena gestured, “And eight of us. We can all split up and go the other way and if we find the exit, we can call each other on our Arcus.” Rena proposed and peeked around the room, trying to gauge everyone’s thoughts.
“Hmm… That is a satisfactory proposal.” Jusis muttered. “Assuming you intend to keep us separated?” Rena simply nodded as her answer.
The room fell silent, looking towards Machias for his answer. “Sure. It’s better than wasting more time down here. Machias shrugged, “If that’s the plan, I say the three nobles head off together and-”
“Hold on.” Laura interrupted, “I don’t think that would be a good idea. If Rena and I go together then even if you have Gaius, you will lack a close-quarter fighter.” Laura’s point seemed to strike at Machias who silently recoiled, “But if you are willing, I will accompany you which will solve that issue.”
“Urg… F-fine. I guess I can deal with one of you for a little while longer…”
“Thank you.” Laura approached Emma with a relaxed smile. “And would you mind joining us? I believe your arts will be very useful for making up for our lack of range power.”
“O-oh, sure!” Emma stuttered nervously. “If you think I can help I’ll do my best. But… Who else should we take?”
“Um.” Rena politely raised her hand, “Would you be willing to take Alisa with you?” Rena requested.
“What!? Why me!”
“Because… With Jusis, Gaius and myself and Elliot’s healing backing us up, we’ll be able to deal with anything so… having a bit more range support for Laura would be useful.” Rena made her way over to Alisa and leaned close to the blond girl’s ear. “And… truth be told. I trust you the most right now and… I believe you will deal with any situation that arises.”
“R-Really?” Alisa’s eyes sparked as Rena confided in her. “W-Well… if that’s the case.” Alisa stepped away and stretched her arms out, “Sure, I don’t mind. But let’s just get moving, I’m… really sick of this place.”
Everyone agreed to her sentiment and with the groups settled they began walking down the two passageways. The journey onwards felt… lonelier to Rena as they continued, the previous discussions having dried up and Jusis remaining at arm's length from everyone else.
Luckily combat from this point onwards was minimal and they eventually passed along the path they saw Fie jump up to, reinvigorating the tired student, and prompting them to push onward even harder. Until finally they passed through a crossed path that led into a large room with a staircase with light filtering through the door at the top.
“I think… we’ve finally found the exit.” Gaius breathed a sigh of relief, lowering his spear and letting his muscle relax. “We should inform the others.”
“Yeah.” Rena nodded, “But let's make sure first.”
“Hmph. I will just be glad to be out of here. This was nothing more than mindless busy work with insignificant foes.” Jusis said, not letting any signs of weariness or exhaustion show.
“Are you kidding me? Did we fight the same things?” Elliot exclaimed, his arms dropping to his sides.
“At least we’re nearly out. Then we can all rest-”
At the far end of the room, a statue slowly started to crack and rumble, the rocky shell breaking away to reveal a large monster underneath… That leapt at the group taking a swipe at Gaius as it landed.
“Woah!” Gaius stepped back, barely deflecting the creature’s claw with his spear. “Are… Creatures like this common in the empire?”
“Only in old myths and wives' tales.” Jusis hissed, drawing his blade. “But at least it’ll be a worthy opponent.”
“You… are crazy!” Elliot exclaimed, carefully backing away from the creature.
“We just need to take it out then we’re home free.” Rena drew her Tachi, expelling a large amount of energy with a slash. “We can do it.”
“Right!”
And so the battle began, despite their exhaustion, they managed to keep the gargoyle-like monster off balance but once it realised it was outmatched on the ground it took to the air. Putting the four students on the defensive, they evaded the attacks best they could and struck when possible.
Shortly after Gaius told them to keep its attention. Once the monster was firmly focused on Rean and Jusis taunting and striking it when possible, Gaius ran up the staircase above and leapt onto the monster’s back piercing its thick, stone-like hide causing its blood to spew out onto the boy as it fell to the ground with a loud thud.
Panting, Gaius leapt off the creature, the four teens kept their guard up but just as they were about to relax, it sprung to life again, swiping at Rena and forcing the girl back. “Ah!” Rena flinched from the pain followed by her heart slowly feeling hotter and hotter. N-No… Not here… N-Not now… Rena gripped her chest as her fear and panic rose.
“Look out!” A voice called out followed by a barrage of white arrows, disorientating the creature followed by a large fireball blasting it in the face, blinding it.
“Hiiiya!” Laura charged in, easily overpowering the beast’s defence and knocking it to the ground. “I’m glad we made it in time.”
“Y-You guys made it!” Elliot cheered.
“Of course we did. We couldn’t let you guys have all the fun.” Machias jokes, stepping into the room with Alisa and Emma, “Removing limiter… BREAK!” Machias fired a large powerful round from his shotgun that shattered the beast's thick stoney hide all across its body.
“Perfect. Now I can lend a hand.” As if appearing from nowhere Fie dropped down from the stairs above, flipping her twin daggers around and driving them into the gargoyle’s exposed skin.
With that, the monster was brought low, barely able to move. “Everyone. While it’s weak, let’s work together and take it out!” Rena declared, having calmed herself. “Go!”
As they all charged a mysterious light formed between them, as Rena moved in to strike an image of Alisa aiming her bow flashed through her mind. Instinctively she move to the side and a hail of arrows flew past, What the?
But that was not the only instance, every so often she would see action someone else planned to make and worked around it and… It seemed as if the others were doing the same for her until…
“This one’s mine!” Laura shouted as the beast let out a pained, angry roar. “Haaaaaaaaah!” Laura charged the beast, leaping in the air and taking its head clean off, droplets of blood from the wound covered the group but it along with the monster it came from slowly turned back to stone and crumbled away.
“Is it… over?” Emma breathed out in a barely audible voice.
“I… Think… So…” Elliot whispered as his legs gave out and he fell to the floor. Once it was clear the danger was past, all the students, even the studier ones like Laura and Gaius, fell to the ground in exhaustion.
“I appreciate a challenge. But if they were going to throw that at us, I would have appreciated a warning…” The blue-haired girl muttered, wiping the specs of stone from her blade.
“Yeeeeah, sorry about that. That thing was NOT meant to be down here.” Everyone looked up and saw their carefree instructor looking down on them from above. “You guys did great handling it though, I was about to step in but… clearly I didn’t need to. Seriously well done” The older woman said, giving them a round of applause.
“You-”
“Hold your horses Machias.” Sara held her hand up silencing the boy. “I’m sure you all have questions but how about we get you guys out of here and talk somewhere… a little nicer.”
The group all looked at each other even Machias and Jusis seemed to be letting their grudge rest for the moment. “That… sounds good.”
“Alright, then. Come on, move your butts. The faster you get here the faster you get answers.”
Sara turned back and headed up the stairs and after another moment of rest, each student slowly got up and one by one left the underground area behind, finally bringing this long and arduous task to an end.