Chapter Text
No no no. It shouldn’t have ended like this.
The urgent voice that called out to him “Crow!”
Why did all of this have to happen this way?
Something shoved him to the side as a sharp tail pierced through the Ashen Knights armor easily. Crimson eyes widened with shock “Rean!”
He was supposed to be the one laying there. Not his beloved junior.
“I’m fine!... Hurry and save the prince!”
Crow watched with shock as Emma tried her best to use healing magic on the teen that was laying in his arms. A gapping hole was in Rean’s chest, staining the juniors already crimson jacket with more of Rean’s blood. Crow’s entire body was trembling, as he clutched Rean’s body closer to him.
“Rean… It’s gonna be alright, you will survive dammit!”
“Cr… ow…”
Crow immediately responded. “I’m here Rean, I’m here! Save your breath alright! Both Emma and Vita will do their magic and everything will be alright!”
Rean was chuckling, but it was interrupted by a cough of blood, everyone there flinched. They knew that they could die at anytime, and they had already prepared themselves. However, nothing could prepare them to see their strong and kind leader laying there with a horrifying wound like that.
“I might be naïve… but I’m not that naïve… to not know that this is a fatal wound… I’m just glad… that everyone is alright…”
This idiot still thought of other people, even while on his own deathbed. “You damn idiot, think about yourself more dammit!” Crow’s head immediately snapped to Vita. “Vita! Can’t you do anything?!”
Vita was startled out of her shock as she moved her staff, but in the end she shook her head. Her violet eyes were filled with unshed tears, expression grim, but the stone on her staff glowed dimly.
“I’m sorry… the only thing I can do now is to make it as painless as possible for him…”
Everyone’s expression became grimmer with that. Crow gritted his teeth as he rested his forehead on the top of Rean’s head. “Dammit… DAMMIT!”
“Crow it’s fine… at least I can fulfill my promise… to let you graduate… with Towa and the others…” Rean muttered out with a smile.
Crow’s breath hitched when he heard that, and he tried his hardest to hold back the tears that really wanted to flow out. “What is the meaning of that if you, yourself, don’t survive you idiot!”
The black-haired teen only smiled before he shifted his head to the side. “Miss Vita… thank you… At least… I can say goodbye… to my friends…”
Vita only nodded her head slightly, expression still grim. Rean sighed before he closed his eyes with a smile. “Thank you, all of you…”
Everyone’s head perked up at that, eyes focusing on their dying leader. Lilac eyes fluttered open, and everyone saw the happiness and sadness that was being reflected there clearly, even though it was slightly dazed.
“For being my best friend… For accepting me for who I am… For always supporting me… Taught me a lot of things… Giving me a reason to love myself more... Even though I finally remembered who I was… The memories all of you shared with me are my most precious treasure… Thank you for giving me another family… For giving a reason… for my existence… To keep me moving on…”
Elliot cried out hoarsely, Gaius gripping the younger’s shoulder while holding back his own tears. Machias and Jusis averted their gaze, their shoulders trembling very badly. Laura was hugging both Alisa and Fie who had already broken down since earlier while crying herself.
Millium gripped Jusis’s hand, eyes glistening with tears. Emma was already sobbing, trembling hands still lit up with magic. Instructor Sara was beside her, hands covering her mouth as tears flowed down freely on her cheeks. Celine and Vita were watching with a solemn expression.
“… Crow…” The said teens head perked up at that, and he saw Rean stare at him with eyes filled with sadness “I’m sorry… as his son… I apologize for everything that person did to you…”
Crow tilted his head in confusion at that, what did Rean mean by that? Before he could ask though the younger boys eyes changed from ones filled with sadness, to ones filled with love. Lilac eyes glistened with tears that slowly flowed down on his cheek. Then he watched as bloodied lips curved into a small smile.
“Thank you… for letting me know… what falling in love is like… I love you…”
Crimson eyes widened in shock at that statement, he already knew. He always knew that Rean loved—no, loves him since a few months ago. He hadn’t said anything because it would only bring them pain. However… he knew that he would regret it more if he didn’t say anything now.
Crow’s face immediately scrunched up as he gritted his teeth, the hands that held Rean’s shoulder clenched tighter. The tears he held back slowly came out without his permission. “I love you too you idiot…” Crow said between his own tears. The smile he received for his words was so beautiful that it almost made his chest burst with feelings.
“Keep on moving forward all of you… My steps stop here… but all of you can still keep moving on… even thought it will be hard…” Rean then rested his cheek on Crow’s shoulder “… Graduate… reach out for each of your dreams… for your own sake… I believe all of you can change our country for the better… Don’t waste your lives… you live only once after all… Live on… Keep on moving… for my share as well…”
One of Rean’s hands slowly reached up, and Crow grasped that hand as he brought it to his cheek. Lilac eyes were already wavering, slowly losing all of there focus. However, those eyes still looked at Crow with so much love. Crow bit his lower lip, before he kissed Rean’s palm gently, his eyes still focused at lilac ones.
Then those lilac eyes he loved so much started to dimmer, losing their light entirely as his eyes slowly fluttered close. The hand in his grip went limp the same way as the body that rested against him. There’s was no longer any movement on Rean’s chest, and the younger’s sound of breathing ceased to exist. However, a beautiful smile was still painted on those bloody lips.
Crow could feel his breath hitch, as he rested his face on the top of Rean’s head. He gently cradled the younger’s body as close to him as possible. His shoulders trembled, the cracked dam on his eyes completely broke. For the first time since his grandfather’s death, Crow Armbrust cried out.
“AAAAAARRRRRGGGGGGHHHHHHH” An anguished scream that came from his mouth was telling something to the world. It was telling the world… of his pain… his despair… his lost love…
The same can be said for the rest of Class VII. Losing their best friend, their brother, their student… their very own core, and foundation that kept them standing up straight. No longer could they hear Rean’s soothing voice and wise words, no longer could they see him leading them… No longer could they be together again.
Then the damn duke dared to disturb their mourning. Crow almost lashed out, one hand clutching Rean’s body while his other hand reached down toward his gun. However, Vita was faster than him, and she threatened the duke.
Things went down hill from there. Rufus’ appearance, and the truth that he was an Ironblood. However, what shocked all of them the most was… the Chancellors appearance. The man just came in with that infuriating smile, but his eyes… those emerald green eyes stared at the duke with so much coldness that it even made Crow shiver.
The Chancellor then told them everything, about his fake death, and about him knowing about the societies plans. Then he announced that he was taking over the plan… he even talked about the annexation of Crossbell.
Crow went numb with everything. His mind no longer processing anything else. The fight… losing Rean… then the Chancellors survival… It was too much even for someone like Crow. He slowly closed his eyes as he slowly inhaled and exhaled, trying his best to calm himself down. When he thought he was calm enough, he opened his eyes again.
The Ironbloods were already gathered around the man, and Vita was no longer there, already teleporting away. Class VII surrounded him, their expression still grim as tears still stained their cheek. However, their eyes looked at him with worry as well. Before he can assure them, he sees it. The Chancellor walked towards them, followed by Rufus.
Crow flinched in instinct, and hugged Rean’s body closer. The others seeing his reaction turn around as well. Their guards immediately go up when they saw the Chancellor. However, to their surprise there’s no mocking grin on that face, not even a smile. The Chancellor stared at them -at Rean’s body- with a blank face.
“What do you want, Osborne?” Crow hissed out.
“Give me that child’s body, Armbrust.”
The white-haired teens temper immediately rose at that, shoulders trembling. “You don’t have the right… You don’t have the right dammit!” Crow hissed out.
One of Osborne’s eyebrow rose. “I have more right than you think you are, Armbrust.”
He almost snapped back before Rean’s few words struck him at that very moment
“—Even though I finally remembered who I was—”
“—as his son… I apologize for everything that person did to you—”
Crimson eyes widen in realization, there was only one person… one person that had hurt him the most. Rean knew that, and apologized for that person, because Rean was that person’s son. He slowly stared down at Rean’s face, shock clearly paint his face.
“Is that why… you apologized to me…?”
Everyone heard that, including Osborne. “I see, so at the very end… he remembered who he was and his connection with me.” All eyes snapped toward the Chancellor, and then towards Rean’s body. All the members of Class VII had heard what Rean said towards Crow, and their brains just processed some of Rean’s parting words. So many eyes then widened in realization.
Lost in his shock, Crow didn’t even realize it when the Chancellor kneeled in front of him. The next thing he realized was that Rean’s body was no longer in his arms. It was already being carried in the Chancellors arms. It was only for a second, but Crow swore that he saw the Chancellor stare at Rean with a fond, gentle, and sad look. However, when Crow blinked it disappeared, so it could just be Crow’s imagination as well.
The man then stood and began to walk away, in instinct Crow stand up. “Wait a damn minute!”
Osborne’s steps stopped as he half-turned, his eyes staring directly at Crow’s. Crow almost gulped from the intensity of the man’s gaze.
“Why… why now?! Why did you abandoned him all of this time?! Yet now you acknowledge him?!” It was not only Crow who had questions, the others had the same amount of questions painted on their face.
They can still remember how much Rean’s abandonment hurt the black-haired teen. How much it hurt Rean’s own self-worth. How much it made their beloved friend suffer and struggle. Yet this man just so easily claimed that he was Rean’s parent. The very person who abandoned him on Ymir’s snowy mountain.
“Why you said… It was simple. I was just chosen as the Chancellor, I don’t need a burden that will be used against me.”
The way the Chancellor answered infuriated Crow even more. However, even with anger almost clouding his mind, he could hear the implied words. The man was protecting Rean from the nobles that would definitely target the man.
Emerald eyes narrowed towards Crow. “Remember this Armbrust, this child was involved in the war because of you. You are the reason for his death.”
Crow knew that dammit, he knew it so much that it was his fault that Rean ended up dead, protecting him to boot! However, hearing his own enemy say it clearly to his face… made that realization hurt more than it already did.
Then the Chancellor left, and Rufus followed not far behind him. Though the heir of Albarea had said something before he left completely. “It’s alright, I will make sure all of you will be there to attend Rean’s funeral. It’s the least I can do to repay Rean’s hard work and as one of Thors Board Director.”
The next day, word came out about two new heroes. Both Ashen and Azure Chevalier, and it was being told as well… that the Ashen Chevalier was fatally wounded. The government didn’t give any more comments about the Ashen Chevaliers condition, but the public could make their own assumption. The Azure Chevalier on the other hand was now working under the government (the Chancellor) order.
All members of Thors, both instructors and students, agreed that they will keep silent about Rean’s identity as the Ashen Chevalier. All of them knew, that Rean would’t like it if people knew. Thankfully the towns people kept silent as well. With that Rean’s identity was protected.
One week passed before it was time for Rean’s funeral. For one week as well Class VII mourned their beloved leader. Crow was really glad that he had Class VII with him to grieve with. They cried on each other’s shoulders, and embraced each other. They almost drowned in sadness as they mourned. However, their leaders last words echoed in their mind.
“Keep moving on… for my own share as well...”
It would be hard, it would be tough, but they made a promise, a vow. The promise that they wouldn’t break even if the consequence was death. And move forward they would.
When the time of the funeral came, everyone wore black clothes. Expressions filled with solemn determination. It was attended by a lot of people. The instructors, all of the students, some of the military men that Rean knew, and Rean’s own adopted family.
Under Osborne’s order Rean wouldn’t be buried at Ymir, he would be buried near the outskirts of Heimdallr. Crow glanced to the grave beside Rean’s, and saw a name… Kasia it said. From the persons year of death it was the same as the year of Rean’s abandonment on the Ymir mountain.
Crow had a suspicion… that this grave belonged to Rean’s mother. That meant that the Chancellor arranged for Rean’s grave to be beside the mother that gave birth to him. Crow almost couldn’t believe it, that the Chancellor could be a sentimental person. He shook his head, and returned his focus to other things.
Crimson eyes landed on three people… the Schwarzer family. Rean’s adopted family. Crow bit his lower lips. He couldn’t imagine how Rean’s family felt right now. Knowing that their beloved son and brother wouldn’t return… couldn’t return… all because he decided to protect Crow.
He needed to talk to them. It wouldn’t matter if they shouted or screamed at him, or even hated him. He deserved it, after taking their son and brother away from them. Whatever the family would say to him, he would accept it. After the funeral, Crow steeled his nerves and faced the Schwarzer family. He was in front of Lord Schwarzer now, as he bowed his head as low as possible.
“I’m sorry… Everything was my fault. Rean’s death… it’s because he was protecting me. I know that my apology won’t bring him back…”
The family was silent until Crow felt a soft hand touch his cheek, before it gently moved his face up. He was greeted with Lucia Schwarzer’s sad yet gentle smile. Lucia’s expression was so motherly, so gentle… that it shocked Crow. The mother’s hand gently wiped the tears that fallen from Crow’s eyes, Crow didn’t even notice that he was crying again.
“I see. So you’re the one that managed to get my son’s love.”
Crimson eyes widened in shock at that. Seeing his reaction Lucia only chuckled “My son has always had this starry eyed look when he talked about you, he was always fondly describing about you in the letters he sent. You can call it mother’s intuition. I’m just so happy that you had the same feelings as that child.”
Crow couldn’t hold back the blush that spread on his cheek. Teo Schwarzer only shook his head, seeing his wife antics. “Dear, stop teasing the poor young man already.” The mans gaze rested on him, and Crow immediately tensed up.
“Thank you… for loving my son.” The man patted his shoulder, and Crow could see the man holding back his own tears. Yet those eyes stared at him with fondness and understanding, the looks that Crow was pretty sure were always given to Rean.
Tears almost welled up in Crow’s eyes, but he held them back. He saw movement at the side and saw Elise Schwarzer stare at him with unreadable eyes. The girl eyes were rimmed with red but there was some determination in them.
“Mr. Crow, my brother died protecting you.” Crow filched slightly at the statement, but he kept up a strong front. “So you better be keep on living… so that my brother’s sacrifice won’t be in vain. Or else I won’t forgive you.”
Shock was what Crow felt when he heard that. He could see the forgiveness, and acceptance in the girls eyes. He then nodded his head seriously in answer, before making a vow to carry on the promise he just made. Always.
The Schwarzer family then made him promise to visit them in Ymir. Crow felt that he didn’t deserve this kind treatment, especially from Rean’s family. However, Crow could’t bring himself to reject the offer when Lucia Schwarzer gave him that look. With a promise from him to come to Ymir soon, the Schwarzer family left the graveyard.
One month passed after that, and classes returned to normal. As normal as it could be, with the gaping hole in Class VII’s heart that never healed. In class their eyes sometimes landed on the desk where a certain black-haired teen used to sit. Even their instructor sometimes almost called out his name.
Crow was being assigned at Class VII again, since the members of Class VII choose to graduate early, and with that Crow could stay in Class VII. He was currently alone in the class, other members leaving the classroom for their club activities. However, before they left they asked whether he would be staying here or return to the dorm.
When he said he would stay here, all of them had this worried expression on their face. However, after some reassuring they finally relented. Crow sighed when he remembered that, before he stared at one of the tables with sadness and longing.
“I blame you for this really… infecting our friends like that. They turned into worrywarts just like you… Rean.”
Crimson eyes slowly closed as he leaned back, facing the ceiling. He loved Rean, he still love him. This love… Crow was sure he wouldn’t love anyone else as much as he loved Rean. He was sure he wouldn’t be able to move on from the black-haired teen. However, it was fine… he would always love Rean until the end of his time.
“So, what can I help you with, scarecrow.”
A sound of a weak chuckle could be heard from outside of the classroom. A few second later a young man entered the room, he was Captain Lechter Araundel. The usual grin was there, but it was slightly dimmed.
“That was scary, did you learn it from him?”
Crimson eyes only narrowed in answer, Lechter only held up his hand in surrender. Then at that moment Crow noticed the folder that the man holding. Noticing where Crow’s gaze landed to, he smiled grimly and took out a paper from the folder.
Crow accepted it and read the content, it was a request. A request directed to Azure Chevalier to help the Crossbell Government –Rufus- to fight Calvard’s army back. Crow looked back at the captain with intense gaze… before he answered.
“Alright, when will I depart?”
Seeing the scarecrow’s shocked face was worth it. “Wait, you will accept the request just like that? Without resisting?”
“Please, I hate working under that damn boss of yours, but… if he were here, he would do it. Not because of the governments order, but because this way he could reduce the number of victims. This is the least I can do to respect his memory.”
Lechter smiled slightly at that. “Alright then. Well if you’re ready then we can depart this evening,”
Crow nodded his head. With that he went to Crossbell, and he kept in contact with the others by letters. It was hard… fighting for the man he hated so much. However, he knew… for his own sake and Rean’s… he would keep moving forward.
After two months at Crossbell, he finally returned to Trista. He reunited with all of his friends (family, they were his family, said the voice inside his mind) and caught up with all the materials that he needed to know to graduate.
The white-haired teen groaned loudly while thumping his forehead on his table. He heard sounds of chuckles and sighs from around him. When he looked up everyone was already gathered around his desk.
“Are you alright Crow? That’s a pretty intense study. The instructors pushed so many materials at us since we all wanted to graduate early.” Laura asked, with worried tone.
“Urgh I’m fine. Some of the material was already being taught when I was still in Class V, but urgh… I hate history.” Crow whined out.
Elliot let out a weak chuckle at that before he smiled sadly. “History huh… it was his favorite subject…”
Everyone eyes landed on where their leader’s seat was, before all of them smiled weakly. It was still hard, but they couldn’t always grieve for him. It would only make him sad, and he wouldn’t be able to rest in peace. At the very least they could smile while talking about him now.
Crow then decided to change the topic. “So, what will all of you do now? Club activities?” Everyone nodded their heads at that.
“To think this will be the last time we have club activity before graduation…” Alisa muttered out.
Fie shrugged her shoulders at that “Well, more reason for us to enjoy it more then.”
“What will you do now Crow?” Millium asked out.
“I will meet up with Towa, ‘Gelica, and George at the student council room. I promised to help Towa with cleaning up after all.”
“Then shall we go to our clubs now? Since today’s class already finished.” Gaius said.
“I think that’s for the best.” Jusis replied with a nod.
With that all of them went out of the room, and walked towards their clubroom. Crow walked towards the Student Union building alongside Emma and Machias, since their clubrooms were inside the Student Union. They talked about material books that they needed for the graduation test until they arrived on the second floor.
After saying ‘see you later’ to the two, Crow entered the Student Council room. He was greeted with Towa who almost fell over from carrying a heavy box, his body immediately moved and managed to hold both her and the boxes weight.
“Really Towa, be more careful. You’ll hurt yourself y’know.”
Towa’s head perked up with that. “Ah Crow! You came!”
Crow raised his eyebrow at that. “Of course I did. I already promised after all.”
Angelica wiped a fake tear. “I feel proud… our dear Crow finally matured.”
Both George and Towa nodded their heads in agreement, and Crow could only stare with half lidded eyes while sighing. Suddenly his mind went back to a certain junior. He immediately shook his head, and helped Towa around. His sudden silence didn’t go unnoticed by the other three. However, they decided to keep silent and continue working.
Hours later, they finally finished with cleaning up and were currently sitting around the sofa. Crow groaned out in tiredness while he leaned back. Both Angelica and George did the same, while Towa served them each a tea each before sitting down herself.
“Damn it Towa… just how much student council work do you have… there were so many documents, I thought they wouldn’t end…” Crow groaned.
“I didn’t think we worked that much, and I assure you we are already done with the clean up.”
“Thank goddess for that.” George muttered out.
Then they began to drink their tea. While sipping his tea Crow remembered that tomorrow was a free day. “A free day huh…” he muttered out, his words heard by the other three. The other three exchanged worried glances, but he didn’t notice it since his mind was filled with a certain black-haired teens image.
He could still remember clearly that whenever there was a free day, he would always find Rean busy helping the student council. Running around helping students and the townspeople, the younger boy even spent time with Crow himself. That time he really enjoyed, and grew fond of.
The soft and shy smile, the bright glint in those lilac eyes that always looked at him with resigned fondness, he could still remember them clearly as well. Then suddenly his mind went back to Rean’s bloodied form. Lilac eyes slowly dimming, body becoming colder with each second, and then the smile… that beautiful smile he loved so much tainted by the blood on his lips.
Rean should be here right now… The younger should be here, enjoying the school life more. He should have graduated with everyone else, and dated a girl that he liked (Though Crow knew it was impossible, since he knew Rean loved him). Everything was his fault. He should have been the one that died, not Rean. It was his fault… HIS FAULT!
“—OW!! CROW! SNAP OUT OF IT YOU IDIOT!”
Angelica’s shout snapped Crow out of his thoughts. When he looked around he noticed that Angelica was already sitting by his side, her hands on his shoulders. Her face was filled with a worried expression. George was on his other side, lips set in thin line, his eyes staring at him with sadness and worry.
Towa… oh dear Towa was kneeling in front of him, clutching his hands tightly with her little ones as they glowed from the activation of an arts, her expression filled with sadness and pain as well.
Crimson eyes blinked in confusion, he was pretty sure he was holding a cup earlier. Then when he looked down he noticed that there was some blood on Towa’s skirt uniform… his blood. There was the a remains of a cup on the table. It seemed like he shattered the cup with his grip earlier.
“…Ah, sorry Towa. The cup…”
Towa shook her head, hands still glowing with healing arts. “It doesn’t matter… Are you alright Crow? Ah forget that question, you’re not alright. You almost had a panic attack…”
Crow blinked again as he tilted his head. Him? Panic attack? No way. George immediately cut his words off before he could said anything. “Crow, did you manage to mourn for him properly?”
“What are you talking about? Of course I did.”
Angelica sighed at that answer. “Don’t you dare hide it Crow Armbrust. Both Alisa and Fie told me that you helped the other members of Class VII mourn. But you yourself… they know that you won’t cry freely in front of them. George and Towa got the same information from the other member of Class VII as well.”
Crow opened his mouth again, but no words came out from his mouth. Towa’s eyes softened seeing this, as she slowly stood up while reaching for him, before stroking Crow’s cheek gently. Wiping away some tears that Crow himself didn’t realize were falling down.
“I wonder if this is because you’re a man. But really Crow, it’s fine you know, to cry more freely. After all you’re a human as well. All of us know about your feelings toward Rean as well. It really hurt you right… losing him like that…”
Crow visibly flinched at that, as he tried to back off. He didn’t want to talk about it. However, his friends grips were strong, and both Angelica and George were beside him. Towa was directly in front of him… and he couldn’t hurt them, not again. In the end he could only went limp while leaning back in his seat. He could felt both Angelica and George shift closer to him.
“Why did you have to say that damn it…”
“Because Rean is not here to tell you that, so someone else has to.”
He let out a weak chuckle. “Of course he is not here. He’s dead and it was my fault.”
Towa eyes soften again. “Crow… it’s not—”
However, Crow immediately cut her off with a shout. “IT’S MY FAULT DAMN IT!”
The room descended into silence. Crow didn’t care, he was already trembling very badly, teeth gritting against each other with his hands clenched very tight. “It’s my fault… Rean should be here… he should still be alive… Class VII should still have their leader…”
“Crow…”
“He protected me damn it! I was ready to die! I always was! I know what would happen to me! But Rean… Rean is not…”
Crow covered his face with his hands, body leaneinh forward. “It should have been me… it should be me that was the one that died! Not Rean… not the kind and gentle Rean! Why him… Why must it be him damn it?!” Tears freely fell from crimson eyes.
Amidst his tears, Crow could feel both George and Angelica’s shoulders touch his. While Towa let him bury his face into her stomach. The three didn’t say anything, letting Crow let out all of things he tried to burry and Crow... felt really grateful for that.
A few moments passed, and Crow finally managed to calm down. He wiped his own tears before he stared down, feeling awkward after having a break down like that.
“I’m sorry….”
Then he could feel Towa’s hand pat his head. “It’s fine Crow, I’m glad you trusted us enough to cry like that.”
“Well we’re not Rean. But we’re still your friends Crow.” Angelica added with a smile. George let out a smile as well, before he just shrugged. “What they said.”
Crow stared at his three friends smiling faces, before he smiled himself. “Thank you, all of you.”
With that Crow left the student union building with lighter shoulders. Rean’s death still weighed him down, but he would try his best to move forward. When he arrived at the dorm Elliot and Gaius greeted him. The orange-haired teen stared at him, noticing his red-rimmed eyes, before the junior smiled.
“Did you finally have a talk with the other seniors?”
“Yes… I did.”
“I see, I’m glad. Ah no, all of us are glad. Because you seemed to push yourself to hard Crow.”
Gaius nodded his head in agreement. “You and Rean are similar in that way, keeping everything that’s bothering you to yourself. You know that no one, not even Rean himself, blame you right? If he’s here now I’m sure he would lecture you.”
Crow let out a weak chuckle at that. “Oh goddess, he would definitely do that.”
Elliot stared at Crow with fond eyes. “You might be older then all of us, but that doesn’t mean you can’t ask for our help you know. Everyone from Class VII will help you, you’re part of us Crow.”
Crimson eyes widened at that, mind immediately going back to the fall season. Words from a certain someone echoing in his mind alongside the beautiful scenery of the sunset illuminating the classroom.
“Just because you’re a second year doesn’t mean you need to pretend you’re indestructible. We’re in this together. The rest of Class VII and I are always here to listen, and we know you’re there for us too. You’re part of Class VII too after all.”
“C—Crow?! Is there something wrong?! Was it something I said?!”
Crow blinked his eyes in confusion, why were both Elliot and Gaius looking so shocked like that? Then he noticed it, the tears that fell from his eyes. He stared at the tears on his hands, before he let out a weak chuckle, it was slightly wet.
“Damn it Elliot. You spend too much time with Rean. He said something similar to me before the Roer field study.” Elliot blinked his eyes at that before he exchanged stares with Gaius, before the other two let out a chuckle as well.
Night comes as they all spend dinner together. They enjoyed Sharon’s cooking, who has returned as their caretaker for these few last weeks. He returned to his room, but his movements stopped at his front door. Eyes locked toward the door at the opposite side of his room. With slow steps he got closer and closer… before he stood before the door number 201.
He silently opened the door, and was greeted with a familiar room, Rean’s room. He stepped inside as he looked around. It still looked the same as ever. The eastern words that hung and some other personal touches. His eyes then landed on Rean’s desk, more exactly… at a coin that rested on it.
As he got closer he could see it more clearly, it was a 50 mira coin. When he took it somehow he got a feeling that this mira was he same one that he’d given Rean on the night of the festival. He clutched the coin tightly in his hand, bringing it closer to his chest. Really… even after everything Rean still kept this in his own room. Somehow… Crow’s chest felt warm.
After that he decided to take the 50 mira, and return to his room. When Crow returned to his room he noticed something shiny on his desk. His guard immediately went up, hands already on his holster. He slowly got closer to the desk, and found a small mirror alongside a small paper. Cautiously he picked it up and read the letter.
‘Hello Crow~
I have a small gift for you. It can only be used once, but this might help you and Class VII in your investigation soon. See you next time my dear awakener~
V.C’
Crow eyebrow twitched, that witch was still be able to come here while on the run? He immediately burned the paper by using fire arts. It would be bad for him if the government found out that Vita contacted him. His attention then went to the small circular mirror on his table. He picked it up carefully, and turned it around. As far as Crow could see, it was only a normal mirror with a beautiful frame design.
Well Vita did say this might help him and Class VII, but… investigation…? What investigation though? In the end Crow decided to shrug it off. He would think about what Vita meant tomorrow, today… he already felt so tired because of the crying and the emotional outburst he had earlier. After so many nights filled with nightmare, finally that night Crow could sleep peacefully while clutching both the mirror and the 50 mira coin.
The next day he got his answer. When he walked around the academy he sensed it, something was not right with the septium movement. The odd sensation was centered around the old school house, and he immediately contacted his divine knight using their mental link.
‘Ordine, did you notice that?’
‘Yes I did. Something is not right with the old school house.’
Crow eyebrow rose at that ‘But Class VII already finished the trial. There should not be anything else remaining in that place.’
‘Hm… it feels familiar yet different. Can you get closer to investigate it more Crow?’
‘I will.’
He cut their connection, and immediately went to the old school house. As he stood outside of it, his eyes narrowed. Visibly nothing changed, but at the same time… Crow had this strange feeling, crawling in his stomach.
“Oh? It’s the bandana guy.”
Crow blinked and turn around, as he saw Celine walk closer. “It’s the black cat. What are you doing here?”
“That should be my question. But, I think you noticed it too then. The strange mana flow in this place.”
Both of their attention went back to the old building again. Then suddenly the bell was ringing the same way it had on the night of the school festival. Many rushed footsteps could be heard, and when he turn around he saw Class VII, Instructor Sara, the blonde bracer –Toval-, Sharon, Towa, Angelica and George rushing towards him.
“Crow?! Did something happen?!” Emma asked.
“Well, that was what I was trying to investigate before the bell suddenly started ringing like that.”
Everyones attention went to the old school house. The building was suddenly engulfed with a transparent silverish barrier. All the members of Class VII exchanged glances with one another, before they nodded and began to enter the barrier and the building. The others followed not far behind.
When they entered… a shock was what they got. The place was completely different then usual. It looked so spacious, that it felt like they entered a new realm entirely. The place looked ethereal in it’s own right. Even though this place looked beautiful… somehow Crow felt uneasy. This place felt… hollow to him.
“Come to me, Ordine!”
The Azure Knight immediately appeared before its awakener, kneeling before Crow in its regal form.
“Ordine, do you know what happened here? Pretty sure something like this didn’t happen at Ordis after we finished the trial.”
“Hmmm, this place was created by the Gnomes. It houses some of their finest technology as well, like the creation of a large-scale phase space, the expansion of flexible materials and… the development of the Awakener's trial system.”
“Wait, you mean right now this happened because there was another trial?” Crow asked
“Yes. However this is not the official trial you’re supposed to complete. I think some disturbance happened and started this trial. So if you choose to not do this trial it will be fine.”
“I see thank you Ordine.”
Crow then turned around, and looked at them all. “That’s what happened you all. So… what do you guys think?”
Each member of Class VII exchanged glances, then their expressions turned into fond ones, smiles painted on their faces. They reached the same answer, and Crow himself choose the same answer as them.
“I think Rean’s behavior is rubbing on us to much.” Machias muttered, while massaging his forehead.
“Well, if he was here I think all of us know his answer.” Laura said, with a smile.
Fie shrugged her shoulder. “It’s Rean after all.”
“Now then, we already have our answer.” Jusis said.
Alisa nodded and looked at Crow. “You know our answer, how about you Crow? Can you lead us?”
“Ohhhh you guys asked for it huh. I won’t be as good as Rean though.”
Millium let out a laugh. “Don’t sell yourself short Crow, you will do fine.”
“Even the short-stack… Ah fine.” Crow ruffled his own hair, before he looked at his class mates –family- with determination. “Let’s finish this trial shall we?”
With that everyone nodded their heads in unison. Sara who saw this could only face palm. “All of you really…” She then sighed. “Ah well, if this is your decision then as your instructor, I will help.”
Toval let out a laugh. “This is interesting, count me in as well!”
“If my lady needs me, then I will gladly offer my help.” Sharon said, as she bow slightly.
George, Angelica, and Towa nodded their heads as well. “We will help all of you as well!” Offered Towa.
“If Towa gose I will go as well.”
“I won’t be able to help with the fighting, but if you guys need me to tune your orbments or weapons just come to me.”
Crow… really love his friend so much, he won’t say that loud though. With preparations done, all of them began their investigation. As they marched up, Crow’s mind went back to Vita’s letter. Was this what the witch meant by investigating? Then… what was the purpose of the mirror though? Well, maybe Crow would found the answer later.
Unknown to Crow, the mirror that he got from Vita started glowing dimly in his pocket.
They began to clear the floors one by one, combat links helped them a lot since the monsters around this place were really strong. However, as they linked with each other… there’s was still one missing piece and all of them noticed it. It can be seen clearly at their pained expressions. However, they kept moving on.
The missing link was bothering them, yet they couldn’t do anything about it. They could only keep on fighting, and try their best to cover the missing link. The enemy fell before them as they moved on, and they even managed to bring down the Cryptid that appeared. Finally they appeared before the huge gate with a white portal on it.
“Is this…” Elliot muttered out.
“I think after this we will fight the big boss.” Crow turned around, and checked on everyone. “So, are you guys ready?”
They nodded in unison, and resolved eyes greeted him. With that they entered the white portal. The scenery that greeted them was similar to the one that greeted them at Valimar’s final trial, and the Infernal Palaces highest floor but… this felt more hollow.
They walked towards the circle shaped floor, but when all the members of Class VII and Sara stepped on it, a barrier surround them all. Trapping them inside. Toval, Sharon, Celine and the other three seniors were outside the barrier.
“What the hell?!” Toval shouted in shock
“A… barrier?” Towa muttered.
Angelica clicked her tongue. “Damn, we can’t help anymore that this huh.”
Before anyone could say anything else… a voice, an ancient one, talked.
“And so thou hast come…”
The people inside the barrier immediately snapped their head forward, and saw a white shadow that looked like a divine knight. Everyone immediately readied their weapons.
“I stand before thee as the shadow… A shadow of a great one. Charged with the governance of the shadow trial. I was sealed away within the darkness, never to see the dawning light.”
A bright light engulfed the white shadow, and when the light dimmed down, in the middle of the area was a giant white shadow. It looked similar to the Loa Erebonius that they fought at Valimar’s trial.
“I’m Loa Luciferia. The awakenings of Vermillion and the Infernal Castle’s ruination have led to my awakening. I am but a hollow trial. Thy victory would merit no reward; thy triumph no recompense”
“A hollow trial…” Emma muttered.
“So what. We will – and must – defeat you.” Crow stated.
Jusis nodded his head, “From the very beginning, we weren’t here seeking some sort of reward.”
“We aren’t here to find some purpose either.” Gaius added.
Elliot chuckled. “Overcoming this trial will be a fitting end for our class.”
“Indeed, that is all the reason we need to earn our victory here!” Finished Laura.
“Thou art possessed of a fine spirit. Then come. Reveal unto me, children of man, how thou shalt fight and how thou shalt overcome.”
A swipe from the white shadow began their trial. Everyone immediately dodged. Crow instantly opened his mouth, and barked out instructions.
“Emma, Elliot. Support! Jusis cast your strongest arts! Alisa, Machias target the small one! Millium protect our backline! The rest with me!”
At beginning they managed to fight just fine… until their enemy used their skill ‘Eins-reeg-veda’. An AoE attack that attacked the entire area. The attack knocked them all into the barrier. Even Crow and Sara were knocked that far.
When his back slammed to the barrier Crow didn’t notice the mirror he brought clatter to the floor. Since his attention immediately went to the front again, Loa Luciferia tried to smash the downed Gaius and Fie. Both Laura and Sara stopped the attack, and knocked it back with ‘Radiant Lion’ and ‘Northern Limits’
Seeing this chance Crow immediately dashed forward and activated his craft ‘World Card’, thankfully he was lucky enough to freeze the enemy. However, he knew that it wouldn’t be long. He looked back and saw the others condition. All of the members of Class VII were already down, except for Crow, Laura and Sara, but even the three of them could barely stand.
When they saw the AoE attack again, the others outside the barrier wanted to help, but they couldn’t do anything with the barrier in place. That’s when they suddenly saw it. A thick white mist engulfed the area on top of the small mirror that fell from Crow’s pocket. From that thick mist came a form, a person, that all of them knew so well.
Towa gasped. “You’re…!”
The figure put a finger on their own lips, before they bent down and picked up the cracked mirror. When the mirror was in their hands, they looked at it before they let out a small chuckle. “I need to thank Ms.Vita for this.”
Returning to the others inside of the barrier, the situation become graver, all of them barely survived the attack earlier, they almost gave up. Then…
A miracle happened.
“Is all of your determination only worth this much?”
Everyone’s eyes widened at that very moment, minds repeating the same words over and over again. No way, there was just no way. That familiar voice filled with a strong a leadership vibe. Clear, stern and calm… the tone that always guided them in battle. They slowly turned their head to the back.
There standing near the edge of the barrier was their friend. With his familiar black hair and lilac eyes, face set with a serious expression. He was wearing the red uniform of Class VII. and had a familiar tachi resting on his hip. Their dead friend-family-love, Rean Schwarzer, was standing there.
Loa Luciferia saw the newcomer and immediately targeted Rean. Crow noticed this and immediately shouted out. “Rean!”
However, the black-haired teen only disappeared before he reappeared before Loa Luciferia. With one hand ready on his tachi’s handle, and Eight Leaves One Blades School 2nd form, ‘Gale’, being executed perfectly, cutting one of Loa Luciferia legs. Everyone blinked their eyes owlishly, feeling shocked. While the black-haired teen turned his back towards the enemy, facing all of them.
“Answer my question Class VII. Is your determination only worth this much?” None answered him, faces filled with shame. However, Rean only tilted his head and continued on.
“Why did all of you put a dejected face on for? Did all of you forget?” Seeing everyones startled faces, Rean then smiled “We are Class VII, we always do the impossible. The same way we defeated the first trial… the same way we managed to win all those battles…”
One of Rean’s hands reached out, towards Crow who was kneeling at the front. “Let’s show it… Class VII’s real strength.”
‘Motivate’
Many sounds of chuckles and laughter could be heard a few second later, even Crow was laughing, before he clasped his hand with Rean’s. “You damn cheeky junior, you really know how to motivate someone huh. Even coming back from your death bed like this.”
He then slowly stood up, everyone else standing up as well. Faces no longer dejected, their determination coming back. Both Emma and Elliot immediately healed everyone up. All eyes then turned towards Rean, waiting for another instruction. However, Rean only smiled and turned his head towards Crow.
“You lead us, Crow.”
“Wait… me?!”
“You’re Class VII new leader, so why not?”
“Urgh… you…”
Before Crow could protest more, the groans from Loa Luciferia cut it. When they turned around the leg that Rean had cut already off had regenerated again. Crow clicked his tongue and threw his hand to the air. “Argh… Fine! Emma! Barrier!”
The young witch immediately activated a barrier surrounding them all, it was erected perfectly as the strike from the enemy was blocked. Crow sighed out slowly before he opened his eyes, determined.
“Alright then. Let’s change some of our roles form our previous fight. Elliot, I leave the healing role to you. Alisa, Machias back him up while you guys target the small and far away enemies. Jusis after you buff us, use the strongest arts you have and release it on our enemy. Emma you do the same after you put down this barrier, buff then prepare your strongest arts. Gaius, Millium, strike down any enemies that come near both Jusis and Emma. While the rest will fight the big boss with me, holding its attention toward us. Is that clear?”
They nodded, and that was answer enough. Everyone then activated their combat links again. When the final link connected with all of them… they almost cried in happiness. Their final link… their final and core piece… was there. Class VII was finally completed.
As soon as the barrier went down, all motion was set. Elliot’s ‘Resounding Beat’ immediately buffed them alongside Jusis’s ‘Platinum Shield’ and Emma’s ‘Crescent Shield’. After that Jusis and Emma began activating their ARCUS, focusing on casting their arts. Alisa and Machias rapidly shot down any far away enemies. While Gaius and Millium defeated any enemies that came close, using ‘Gale Storm’ and ‘Buster Arm’.
The five strongest fighters then immediately dashed off towards the main target as soon as Elliot’s craft activated. Fie began the assault with her ‘Scud Wing’, not far behind her was Rean with his‘Autumn Leaf Cutter’, he was being followed up by Sara’s ‘Lightning Flash’. The three attacks managed to unbalance the enemy. Making an opening for Laura and Crow to strike using ‘Armor Breaker’ and ‘Criminal Edge’.
Loa Luciferia let out a loud groan as it made a spining motion, attacking all of its surroundings. The five main attackers were knocked back by that attack, but Jusis’s earlier craft helped to lessen the damage. Alisa’s ‘Blessed Arrow’ and Machias’s ‘Energy Shell’ managed to heal their small wounds. Crow took a glance to the back and saw that both Jusis and Emma were already finished casting.
“Everyone! Get back!”
Hearing that shout, everyone on the frontline moved back immediately. At the same time as they moved back, two high-level arts slammed down to where Loa Luciferia was. It was Jusis’s ‘Altair Canon’ and Emma’s ‘Claiomh Solarion’. When the light from the two arts dimmed down, the target was barely able to stand. Then Crow saw it, the core in Loa Luciferia chest.
Crow dashed forwards again, Rean following him from behind behind. Crow sends a cross shaped slash ‘Deadly Cross’ towards the targets chest, but it only managed to crack the core. He clicked his tongue, but held his double saber with two hands. Rean then landed, and crouched down on Crow’s weapon. Using all of his strength, Crow sent Rean airborne.
“Finish it Rean!”
From the air above, Rean sent a flaming vertical strike ‘Flame Dragon’. However, it only managed to add another crack on the core. Rean immediately did a flip back before he landed on the ground. As soon as he landed, he sheathed his tachi back and made a ready stance. He suddenly appeared behind the Loa Luciferia. With it’s core being shattered with Rean’s ‘Termination Slash – Dawn’.
When the core was destroyed… Loa Luciferia exploded into many feathers that scattered all over them all. The feathers still kept on falling down like they would never end. They finally did it… they finished the trial. As the knowledge sunk in… all of them put away their weapons. Their attention went to the front. Where Rean was standing, with a smile on his face.
“With this the shadow trial ends.”
All the members of Class VII wanted to go to Rean, wanted to hug him, wanted to make sure that he was real. However, somehow their legs were frozen on the spot, and wouldn’t budge. Crow opened his mouth to ask something, but before he opened his mouth Rean threw something at him. Crow managed to catch it with one hand, when he looked down… it was the small mirror that Vita left in his room. However, its frame was cracked slightly.
“That’s called a Phantasmal Mirror, Ms.Vita took a part of my soul and saved it in the mirror. That mirror and this places powerful spirit concentrate are the only reason why I can be here right now. Though… it will be only for a brief moment, and that mirror can only be used once.”
“So that means…” Elliot muttered out.
“Yeah, I’m still dead. The me here right now is only some kind of fragment. But I’m still part of Rean Schwarzer, only not complete.”
Everyone’s faces immediately became dejected at that, but they knew that they needed to be strong… so that Rean could move on, so that Rean could rest in peace. With soundless agreement, they smiled towards Rean.
“I think I represent everyone’s thought here. Thank you Rean, for everything you have done for us. You were always there… Guiding us, leading us, even motivating us. We won’t forget you… Never. So you can rest easy, for we will work hard for our future and we won’t disappoint you.” Machias said with a smile.
Lilac eyes blinked in shock, and he looked around as he saw everyone nod at him. He answered it with his own smile. His mouth then opened, telling all of them about his own feelings. Hearing what he said made them cry, in sadness and in happiness as well. For all of them were granted this last chance to met their beloved friend… their family.
Rean’s attention then landed on Crow. Crimson met lilac, and they were silent… before they smiled at each other. The two then began to walk, closing their distance with every step. They stopped when they were face to face. Rean was the first one that broke the silence.
“You know… I’m hoping you’ll move on from me.”
Crow sighed in tiredness. “Really Rean, if I was in your position and you were in my position… would you be able to move on from me?”
“… No I wouldn’t be able to.”
“Well you got your answer.” Rean let out a weak chuckle at that. Crow, who couldn’t hold it anymore, immediately engulfed the younger in a hug. Rean’s only reaction was a smile, as he hugged Crow back.
Crow didn’t care if the Rean in front of him right now was only a fragment, it was still a part of Rean. And Crow… wanted to indulge himself while he still could. However, he knew… he knew that soon this Rean would disappear as well, so at the very least… he wanted to say it again. So he stepped back, and stared directly into Rean’s face with the gentlest smile he could give.
“I love you, Rean Schwarzer. Until the end of my time.”
Lilac eyes widened at that, but Rean let out a small laugh and smiled so brilliantly that it made Crow’s heart throb.
“I love you too, Crow Armbrust. Until the end of my time, always.”
They smiled as they slowly closed their eyes, and closed distance between them. It was a simple kiss they shared. The kiss not deep, and didn’t weaken their knees. It was only a simple chaste kiss. Yet it was packed with so much feeling. Love, it was filled with so much love. The kiss ended as their eyes fluttering open slowly. One tear fell from lilac eyes, but Rean was smiling so brightly that made Crow himself smile.
Rean’s body, that was still in Crow’s arms slowly began to glow with a gentle white light… before it shattered into brilliant white feathers. They scattered around all of them. Crow slowly closed his eyes, as tears freely flowed down on his cheeks. However, he was still smiling gently.
“Hey Emma.”
“Yes, Crow?”
“Please thank Vita for me if you find her first.”
Emma smiled at that. “I will.”
They had an unexpected meeting with their dead family. Class VII was still mourning, but they will always be mourning for their lost leader, friend, family… love. But now… their shoulders felt lighter somehow. They finally managed to say their thanks to their beloved friend. They won’t say goodbye, for Rean still lived on in their memory and heart. With that Class VII continued on with their lives… With new hope and light, they were moving forward.
-oOo-
“I’m glad…. Even though I’m just some sort of fragment, I’m glad that I could fight alongside you guys again. Helping all of you finish this trial. It was only for a brief time, but I had fun. Thank you everyone. I love you all, always.”
Rean Schwarzer, Chevalier Mirror, Reverie Corridor
-oOo-
Extra
-One year and few months later-
Crow never thought he would became an instructor, it was more of Rean’s forte than his to guide someone… ah… the things he did for love. Two months had already passed since he became an instructor. Currently they had a field trip in Crossbell.
Then an incident happened. The Society began to make their move again. So the government sent the Azure Chevalier, again. Crow really wanted to kill that damn man, sadly he knew he couldn’t do it, yet. He was thankful he had Alisa, Machias, and Emma’s help. The prince coming was a surprise, but Crow can’t really say no since the man seemed like didn’t have a problem with fight as well.
After some time they finally arrived at the top of Stargazer’s Tower, only to be greeted by the Enforcer no. 0 Campanella and Enforcer no. 1 McBurn. Crow blinked his eyes when he saw a familiar face. To think that they were once comrades that fought together in the civil war, but now they were fighting against each other.
However, McBurn was not the only familiar face he saw.
It was after the fight against that machine, Aion Type-b, and after Vita called them out before he saw it, a familiar form of a young man standing at the top of one of the pillars. They had white hair with a style he was so familiar with (No, no, no! It should be black not white!). They had a lean body that was hugged by the clothes he wore perfectly; a long ashen colored coat alongside a mask that was the same color that covered the man’s eyes.
Sounds of gasps can be heard from the other members of the old Class VII, but Crow himself can only gap in shock. His mind could only think endlessly about the impossibility of all of these crazy things that were currently happening.
He ignored Campanella’s parting word as both enforcers of Ouroboros left the place. Crow immediately came out of Ordine, and when he landed his focus immediately went to the masked man.
Vita’s question snap him out of his shock. “Oh my… may I know your name?”
The masked man was silent, before he opened his mouth. “Ashen Siegfried” Crow never thought that he would hear the voice he was certain he’d never hear again.
“This is impossible right…” Machias muttered out.
Then a floating ball beside the man let out a voice. “Siegfried, return back. We already gathered enough data here.”
“Understood.” Answered the man, before he looked at them all “See you again old and new Class VII.” then he faced towards Crow. At this very moment Crow wanted to dash there and rip that mask off. Crow was pretty sure he knew who was behind that mask… a pair of familiar red eyes (lilac… it should be lilac) that Crow loved so much even now.
The man smiled mockingly. “See you again, Azure Chevalier.” Before Crow could say anything, the man was already engulfed with a ball of light and disappeared into a camouflaged divine knight. Crow dared to bet that it was Valimar. Then they left just like that.
Crow’s shoulders was trembling with shock, one hand reaching up to rub his face. “Vita you were there too… you know that he was dead… is it even possible…?” his voice cracked near the end.
Vita stared at the awakener that she once guided in sadness “Yes I was there, and I know he was dead. I’m sorry my dear awakener, but I can’t tell you the answer that you seek.” Crow gritted his teeth at that.
“But…” Vita’s fan covered her mouth, her eyes glinting with seriousness. “I assure you… I will search for the answer and when I find it… I will tell you.”
“Thank you… Vita…”
With that Vita left as well, by using her teleportation magic. The old Class VII immediately gathered around him, their expressions still ones of shock.
“Did that really happen?” Alisa muttered, trembling hands clasping together.
“But… just there’s no way…” Emma whispered out.
“We can’t conclude anything yet. We need to gather more information, especially about the Gnomes.” Machias said, but everyone could see that the man felt disturbed in some way.
Crow looked up towards the blue sky, mind going back to his dead lover that never disappeared from his mind. Crimson eyes glistened, painted there was a vortex of feeling, as he muttered out.
“Just what is going on here… why did you appear just like that…” His hands clenched tightly together. “Answer me… Rean…” he whispered, as one tear fell from his crimson eyes.
-The End... or not?-