Author's Note 1: Hey everyone, I know that my delay was longer than usual. The reason was because of school and other stuff, such as the opening of my DeviantArt site that is under the name of Panzerraptor too. Also, October 25 was my birthday and now I'm finally sixteen. But enough of the excuses, it's time for results.

I have decided to push my deadline by February 2006 because I found out that Kingdom Hearts II is released on March of next year. (Don't worry, it won't take that long to complete this story or its sequel). Also, since I'm almost finished with this tale, I'm going to start changing some of the lines of the script starting on Part 18.2. The major factors and some of the original lines will be there, but it's altered nonetheless. And for you lovers of Peppita and Sophia, they'll will be more lines! Another welcome change (I'm such a nice person). And there is also some more comedy from OCC (Original Character Cyrus. I would put down 'Gangsta', but I'm pretty sure saying that would cause some controversy somewhere).

Part 18.1: Let's go to Styx

The crew walked to the bridge of the ship and saw Commodore Wittcomb, still monitoring the situation. "We're back, Commodore," Fayt said.

"What took so long?" the commodore asked. "Any interference from the Executioners?"

"Yeah, but they weren't too much of a problem," Cyrus said.

"Indeed. Glad to have you back safely. But first things first. Did you find out anything?"

"We did," Fayt said. "There was a secret file concealed in my father's database."

"Is that so?"

"My name and genetic profile were the keywords," Maria replied.

"I see… That explains why we could not find anything. What was in the file?"

"The identity of these mysterious creatures that are attacking the galaxy and the Earth," Fayt said.

"Go on..."

"They're the emissaries of 'the Creator.'"

"So you're saying it IS the Creator? Nonsense…"

"I don't blame you for being skeptical, but that's what my father believed."

"I suppose after seeing what they look like and their capabilities, I would believe that, too."

"What they look like?" Cliff asked.

"I'm afraid so," the commodore answered. "On screen." The monitor began displaying the previous shots and data of the executioners. The entire group was stunned. "Yes, based on their size, it's easy to see that they surpass Federation battleships in offensive and defensive capabilities as well as speed. It's no wonder some call them gods. We have little chance against them."

"Commodore, we need to travel to the planet Styx, where we can enter a realm known as 4D space, where the Creator resides," Fayt explained. "According to my father, it's a different dimension than ours, so time won't progress at the same time as it does here. In fact, the concept of time itself will not apply in 4D space. We're hoping that once we're there, we'll find some way to defeat the Creator and save us all."

"But isn't there a possibility that by defeating the Creator, you will also destroy his creation and all of us with it?"

"I don't think that'll be a problem," Maria said. "In fact, I believe defeating the Creator will free us from his hand and enable us to live in absolute freedom."

"That's right…" Fayt replied in agreement. "And my father gave us the power to do just that."

"I see…" Commodore Wittcomb said. "Then we'll set course for the planet Styx. I fear the trip won't be easy."

"Yes. The enemy has already reached our final line of defense. It is only a matter of time until they breach it."

"Oh no," Sophia replied in despair.

"Then they can't afford to lose the Aquaelie, the Federation's most advanced ship," Fayt said. "We'll go on the Diplo and—"

"Impossible," Commodore Wittcomb interrupted. "The Diplo would never make it through enemy territory and reach the planet. Even the Aquaelie alone is no match for such a foe. I can't allow you to risk your lives when there is no hope of success."

"Commodore—"

"The Executioners are moving against our final line of defense!" shouted a report from Lieutenant Fields. Outside, large red orbs appeared in a flash of light behind the last of the Federation battleships. Unable to react, the vessels were consumed by the attacks. Meanwhile, the larger Enforcers glided around the attack and began launching powerful blasts at the Earth. Though the planetary defense was raised at max, it was no match for the incoming barrage of powerful blasts. Every strike made by the giant Enforcers weakened the shields greatly.

"This can't be happening," a shocked Sophia said.

"I can't believe it either," Cyrus said. He knew that this wasn't the Earth he came from, but nonetheless, it was still the planet he knew. It was also the planet where some of his comrades came from. It was only minutes that the sphere that held life was slowly engulfed by the expanding red balls of chaos, death and misery. Their world was now as lifeless as the other surrounding planets of the Sol System.

"Calculate a course for evading their attack!" Commodore Wittcomb commanded. "Once we are out of the combat zone, proceed to Styx at max warp!"

"Yes, sir!" Lieutenant Fields complied. He quickly typed in the commands on his keyboard and found a safe route. "Course calculated! 112654.774!"

"Good! Get us out of the combat zone, top speed!"

"Yes, sir!" With that said, the Aquaelie warped from the Executioners and the Earth that had just been destroyed. They were now on route to the next planet, Styx. "No enemies detected in present area."

"Right. Looks like we've escaped them for now." The commodore turned his attention back to Fayt and his group. "You all should get a little more rest," he suggested.

"...Okay," Fayt replied. Still traumatized by the onslaught that just occurred, Fayt returned in his room, silent.

Cyrus walked in and saw the shape his comrade was in. "Hey, homes..." he said. The blue-haired teen didn't respond. "Look, I know you're still bummed out. And let's be real, it hit us all hard. But we got to keep focus."

"How are you in remorse?" Fayt hollered. "It's not like you actually came from here, so why would you care?"

"Look, home G," Cyrus hissed. "Remember, I'm also from Earth. If this happened to my world in my own plain of existance, I would feel the same way. In fact, where I'm from, my world is already falling apart because of power and famine."

"Yeah, but—"

"There is no 'buts'. No matter how you're lookin' it's still the same. But right now, we have to look past the crazy shit that's goin' on. There's always a solution. And that solution is you, Maria and Sophia." Fayt moaned and sat down. "I understand what's up, but we need to focus on a plan right now."

"... Right. First things, first. We need to get to Styx. Only then will can we do anything else."

"Now that's what I'm talkin' about," Cyrus cheered. "Sure, it's more of a layout, but it's progress."

"Thanks."

"No prob. But I think you should go to Sophia. She seemed intent on somethin'."

"I guess." With that said, Fayt walked out of the room.

The dark shizznit only shrugged from what had occurred. "He's a cool kid," he thought. "A little high-strung and edgy, but cool." He left the room and went to Nel's quarters. When he arrived, the shizznit found the woman looking out her window, staring into the vast vacuum of space. "Hey," Cyrus said as he entered the room.

"Oh Cyrus!" she said, half shocked. She turned around and faced her young comrade. "I didn't expect to see you."

"Yeah, well, you know. So, what's up?"

"Nothing. I just can't believe it. Your planet... Destroyed in a few seconds! If they can do that to your world, than how can we stop such a foe?"

"We'll try. We'll go to 4D space and stop those monsters."

"Yes. But isn't that your universe?" Nel asked suspiciously. "In some ways, it's no different from Daemonium."

"Daemonium?"

"Daemonium is a universe of demons and other entities," Nel explained. "There, the spirit is able to take on physical form."

"I see. So it's almost like the living afterlife?" Nel gave a slight nod. "You don't need to worry about that. The last time I checked, I'm pure matter. Nothin' here but atoms, fluids and solids all the way, know what I'm sayin'."

"I understand." She turned around and looked back in space. "Tell me, what was your world like."

"My world was bangin'! We got games, guns, girls. But it was nothin' compared to what I'm experiencin' here!" Cyrus then died down his enthusiasm as he began to look down memory lane. "However, I do wonder what's goin' on in my hood. What are my home boys up to? Are my parents okay? What new discovery did my dad uncover? Why did the chicken cross the road?"

"A little home sick, I see," Nel said. Cyrus was quiet. "I understand that it isn't just our universe in peril. Stratus said that Lystara was also after your's too, if I'm not mistaken."

"That's correct."

"I still don't understand what's going on here, or why all this is happening, but I do know that you need our help as much as we need yours."

"You're right on the mark. Who cares if it's the 'Creator' of this universe or whatever. I say bring it on. We can take whatever's thrown our way."

"All other worlds depend on us succeeding," Nel agreed.

"Don't worry," Cyrus said as he walked beside Nel. "We won't go down so easily. You can count on that." Nel nodded in response and the two looked out at the empty space. "Well, it's gettin' late." Cyrus yawned. "Then again, who's to say."

"I have a feeling that by the time we wake up, we won't be to far from Planet Styx."

"Perhaps. Well, chow then." Cyrus left Nel's room and went back to his own quarters. As always, he put on his earphones and went to sleep. Unfortunately, he wasn't going to have a quiet night.

Cyrus found himself back in the strange part of his subconsciousness, again. He wandered around the space and looked in all directions, not knowing what he was searching for.

"Dark warrior of another existence," a cryptic feminine voice said. Cyrus looked around as he listened to this strange message. "Fighter of black wings and the blade of the dark abyss. Thou soul burns as hot as a sweltering fire. Thy power is strong, but not complete. Thy dark impulses are only balanced by light desires. Yet for how long? Thou destiny is uncertain, fate inconclusive. He is thy chosen one, but of what legacy? Is his purpose to rebel against infinite power, or to bend thy will to insurmountable might?"

He saw an unknown light. Through curiosity, the young shizznit walked toward the enigmatic luminescence. He was a few feet away from the source, until the glow expanded. Cyrus covered his face as the event made his eyes feel like they were burning. The light dimmed and the swordsman peeked at the result. What he saw surprised him.

Standing where the explosion occurred, the young boy saw the shape and form of Lystara Catalysta. She levitated only a few inches from the surface. Her tails of her trench coat swayed rapidly in the wind. Her short hair rustled back. Her smile was ever so smug. Cyrus stood with a face of awe and rage. "Well, Cyrus," she started. "It's good to see you again."

"Catalysta!" he growled. "Why are you here?"

"I've just come to say that I'm impressed. It's not everyday now that my most powerful creation, imbued with powers of a celestial being, was destroyed by the mere hands of a rapper."

Cyrus pulled out his Abysmal Offender. "So you came here to say you were prepossessed?" he asked, pointing his sword at the girl. "And that 'celestial being' was myself!"

"Yes, that is true. And you should consider it an honor that I have done such. Not just because you defeated Stratus, that you are in the audience of divinity. As I have said, you are a unique specimen."

"Divinity?" Cyrus snorted. "Yeah right. You better tell me what you're here for! Now!" Cyrus' dark aura was now engulfing his blade as he tightened his grip on the sword.

"Remember that you are gifted with Stratus' strength. In order for you to have, even the slightest chance to defeat me, you need to harness his power."

"You haven't answered me! Why would you tell me something like this?"

"Simple. I wish to challenge you."

"So now you want to fight?"

"Of course. I want to see how much your power grown."

"Yeah, yeah. Just come on," Cyrus said hastily. "Let's go!"

Lystara sprouted two bird like wings. Each were on one side of the body and both were considerable large. Cyrus sprouted his bat wing. Instead of one though, Cyrus had two, well developed wings. Lystara smiled. "I see that Stratus was kind enough to lend his energy to meld with your DNA. With that, your Dark Energy accelerated and caused another wing to form."

"Enough talk. I'm gonna take you down now!" Lystara pulled out her weapon. Instead of the sword she used before, the enemy pulled out a large scythe. The white blade was large and curved. Cyrus rushed at his opponent and slashed. However, Lystara blocked the attack as she held her weapon horizontally. She spun her scythe at Cyrus, creating winds that rival those of tornadoes. The swordsman was thrown back by the force generated by the attack and slammed to the ground. He picked himself up and stared at her with gritted teeth. The girl then spun the blade over her head and slammed it to the ground. A small fissure was coming toward Cyrus, splitting the land below. Cyrus started to fly just in time. Lystara flew above him and held her scythe in the left hand. With the other, a large light blue beam shot out of her hand. Cyrus quickly dived, barely missing the move. Cyrus quickly used Power Up and was beginning to deliver a powerful blow. However, Lystara moved out of the way and slashed at Cyrus with a quick strike, courtesy of the scythe's long reach. The shizznit knew that up here, he was outmatched. He lowered closer to the ground below with Lystara not far behind. During the chase, Cyrus began charging up a symbological attack. He managed to avoid most of the beams. In under a minute, Cyrus turned over to his back. Lystara saw the charged attack. Before she could do anything, the bat-winged swordsman launched two Fire Bolts at her. Both made impact on Lystara who staggered. Cyrus then made a quick slash, delivering more damage. Lystara quickly launched a beam straight at Cyrus' chest right after he struck. The shizznit was hurled back. Cyrus then felt a strange sensation in his hand. He looked at it and saw it glow a gold color. "What's... What's going on?" he asked himself. "Wait. Could this... be the power of Stratus?" The next thing Cyrus knew was that his body and sword were wrapped in a golden light. He then soared at Lystara at such a high speeds, he was but a blur. The move hit the divine being so hard, that she began plummeting to the ground. Cyrus was shocked. He had just performed the attack of his clone with success: Shining Strike. "How the– What the hell?" Just then, he saw a figure shoot back up into the sky. By the time he looked up, Cyrus saw Lystara and her scythe raised above him. "Oh shit..." he said as he knew he was unable to do anything. The weapon made a direct hit. Cyrus found himself on the ground in the middle of a huge crater. He climbed out of the large pit dragging his wings with the tails of his trench coat.

Lystara slowly lowered to the ground, wings folded around her body. "You have scored a few hits on me,"she said in contentment. "You're power has grown... for a thug." Cyrus growled. "I also see that you have started to unlock your potential. However, it's lacking the beauty and form for a challenge. Such a shame," Lystara said as she shook her head in disappointment. "Like I said, you need more training, young Splicer, but you're getting there..." With a stretch of his wings, Cyrus retracted the extra limbs back into his body. "Well, I'm off. Dimensions to remove, universes to destroy. I don't have the time for anymore of these trivialities. Perhaps I may make a visit to your world." Lystara blew Cyrus a kiss and then left through a small wormhole.

Cyrus looked to the ground, not believing what happened. "I can't believe what happened," he thought. "Even with that combo I used, she didn't break a sweat. That don't matter now. I can't have this slip-up stop me. I need to find a way to shut her down. But still, I was able to use Shining Strike." Cyrus then remembered the event that transpired back at Moonbase. How Stratus' energy had merged with Cyrus. "Wait. Stratus said that he'd give me his power. If that's the case, then I may know more moves than just this!" In a few hours, Cyrus was awoken by violent shaking. He woke up and wiped the drool from the corner of his mouth. "What the..." as his vision cleared, he saw the large head of Cliff Fittir. He responded in shock. "Whoa!"

"Mornin' to you, too," he said sarcastically.

"What's wrong, need advice on gettin' the chicks?" Cyrus asked as he adjusted his medallion.

"In your dreams."

"Don't tell me about dreams, G," Cyrus said with a tired look on his face. "So what's up?"

"Commodore Wittcomb wants us on the bridge. We've arrived near planet Styx."

"Good enough for me," Cyrus said as he quickly got his things. Cliff only shrugged his shoulders. The two made their way to the bridge. The other five members and the commodore awaited for their arrival.

"What happened?" Sophia asked Cliff.

"I found Sleeping Beauty still out like a light," he explained.

"Sorry, chronic sleeper. It's a B," Cyrus apologized.

"Commodore, 17 minutes to the planet Styx; we're picking up a strong energy reaction nearby," One of the operators said.

"The Executioners..." Commodore Wittcomb replied.

"I'm afraid so, sir," she complied.

The commodore sighed and turned his attention to Fayt and the rest of the group. His face was plastered in grim. "I am sorry, but it seems we will not be able to transport you down to the surface," he reported.

"You want us to give up?" Maria retorted.

"Please, I've said nothing of the sort," the commodore said in a calm tone. "You'll go to Styx by shuttle before the Aquaelie enters orbit."

"Commodore, what about you and your crew?" Fayt asked.

"That's already been decided. We will use the Aquaelie to lure the Executioners away from you."

"Wait, you're gonna go kamikaze for us?" Cyrus yelp.

"It's the only way. I apologize we are unable to take you all the way. But don't worry. We won't sit here helplessly waiting for our destruction. They shall face the greatest power the Federation has."

Fayt was about to say something, but Nel put her hand on his shoulder. Cyrus shook his head, but understood. "It seems it has been decided," Cyrus replied.

"The old man's right," Cliff said. "There's no other way."

"I'm afraid so..." Maria agreed.

Commodore Wittcomb bowed to the group. His last words he said were, "I wish you luck."

"We will succeed, Commodore," Fayt said. With that reply, the group rushed out of the bridge. They took the transporter to the escape shuttle known as the Calnus. They boarded the vehicle and abandoned the Aquaelie.

"Do you think they'll make it?" Peppita asked.

"I hate to say it," Cliff began, "but the odds don't look to be in their favor."

"And I do think he's talkin' statistics!" Cyrus said as he pointed to a small group of Enforcers that flew to the blue ship. The crew watched as the Aquaelie began firing multiple rounds of lasers. Unfortunately, the maneuverability of the enemies made them hard targets to lock on. As the Executioners pursued the ship, the vessel shot out a powerful beam from its Creation Cannons. It seemed that the Executioners were destroyed.

"Yes!" Peppita said. "Take that you meanies!"

Nel looked closer at the area and was shocked. "Wait!" she said. "One still remains!" Everyone gasped and had their eyes glued back out the window. Nel was right. There was still one more Enforcer remaining, and it wasn't happy. With all its strength, the Executioner shot out a beam which surrounded the Aquaelie with strange symbols. The group watched in horror and awe as the once blue ship became red and was starting the shrink. It only took one closed fist from the Enforcer for the Federation ship to disappear without a trace.

"Oh no..." Sophia said.

Maria tried scanning for the Aquaelie, but to no avail. "I'm no longer picking up the Aquaelie," she reported.

The group was silent and grieved for the crew of the ship that sacrificed themselves to give the group a chance to save the galaxy. "We've got a job to do before we mourn anyone!" Cliff advised. "I'll take us down to a point one kilometers away from the Time Gate. Here we go!" Cliff piloted the Calnus around Planet Styx's orbit. They transported down to the surface, about a few miles from their point destination.

When they arrived, the group saw the land swarming with Executioners. "Talk about crowded," Cyrus said with a straight face.

"They're everywhere, as I expected," Maria said. "Everyone ready?"

"Let's hurry to the Time Gate!" Fayt said.

"Yeah!" Sophia said in agreement.

"Leave it to me!" Cliff replied.

"I'm with ya!" Nel said.

"Right behind ya!" Peppita supported.

"Let's do this thang!" Cyrus replied as he turned his mp3 player to "Yellow Bream" by F-Fields.

The group rushed to the portal. Along the way, they faced many Executioners and other opponents, but prevailed against the odds. After the countless battles, and the many times they reached dead ends, the group arrived at the Time Gate. The artifact was huge; it was as tall as a three story building. "So this is the Time Gate," Fayt said as he studied the artifact.

"The gene of Connection," Maria pondered. "Sophia, Dr. Leingod said you have the genetic power to create a path through the Time Gate and into 4D space."

"Yeah, but I have no idea what I'm supposed to do…"

"Well, that's understandable," Cliff said.

"So we can't go?" Peppita asked.

"Don't look like it," Cyrus answered.

"I'm sorry..." Sophia said.

"Don't say that," Fayt said. "There's nothing to apologize for."

"But I'm letting you all down."

"Don't worry about it."

"If you say so."

"Seems that Sophia's powers are still takin' a snooze," Cyrus said.

"It appears so..." Maria said.

"Well, we won't get anything accomplished just standing around here; let's check out the gate," Fayt said.

"Good idea," Maria replied.

While most of the party check out the Time Gate, Fayt stayed to comfort Sophia. Cyrus, who was with the other members, looked up at the strange dimensional entrance. "Man," Cliff said. "If I didn't know any better, this would be the biggest door I've ever seen."

"Why it's so large?" Nel pondered.

Cyrus thought. "Hmm... Passage from one dimension to another would cause far too much distortion if it were compact. Maybe because of the large size, the Time Gate is somehow able to stabilize some of the subatomic matter created by the fluctuations."

"Is that so?" Peppita asked.

"Perhaps. I'm just makin' a guess. Tell you the truth, I kinda skipped that part on T.V. 'cause I was too busy watchin' some Lil' Jon music videos. Long live the King of Crunk."

"The King of Crunk?" Nel asked. "Is that the name of a monarch in your world?"

"Umm... In some way, substance and effect... yeah."

"Riiight," Cliff said. "Anyways, I wonder what makes this hunk of junk work." Just then, the ground began to rattle violently. The Time Gate than began moving one of its frames. "It moves!" Cliff said in surprise. In the frames, the Time Gate began activating, showing different planets and all kinds of information.

Maria hushed the confused Klausian and said, "This is how it normally operates."

Behind them, they heard a low moan. "What is it?" Fayt asked.

They turned and saw Sophia's nursing her arm which was creating a strange energy. "My hand... It's hot..." she said. Suddenly, the energy became stronger and more apparent. "What's happening… I don't understand…" With one loud scream, a sudden burst of power projected from her hand and barely missed Cyrus' head. It hit the Time Gate and caused a small ripple. Fayt rushed over to her to see if she was alright.

"What was that?" Nel said in confusion.

Maria and Cyrus watched as the an image was slowly coming into clear view. "The Time Gate... it's..." Maria was at lost of words.

"Holy hizzle..." Cyrus gasped. The Time Gate showed a large futuristic city with a strange building.

"What the hell is that?" Cliff asked.

"Very strange," Peppita commented.

"That's…that's 4D space…" Maria said in disbelief.

"It might be," Fayt replied.

"It is," Sophia agreed.

"How do you know?" Cliff asked.

"I don't know why, but I can sense it," Maria answered. "Yes… This is 4D space."

"Yeah… I can sense it, too," Fayt said.

"Something deep down inside is telling me that, too," Sophia said.

"How about you Cyrus?" Peppita asked Cyrus who stood on the platform looking at the image. "You say you're a 4D Being, right? Then is this it?"

Cyrus had a serious look on his face. "It me be a parallel to my home..." he began, "...but it's my turf nonetheless." Cyrus turned around and face the group. "This is 4D Space, homies."

"If you guys feel that way, it must be true," Nel said.

"If you all feel that way, it must be," Cliff said.

"That means the Creator lies somewhere beyond this gate," Maria replied.

"Say, can we even exist in 4D space?" Fayt asked.

"Yeah, it's a completely different dimension…" Sophia replied.

"There's no way we can know for sure," Maria replied. "Still, I don't think Dr. Leingod would have overlooked this."

"Right, but we can't know for sure, can we?"

"I wonder..." Fayt pondered.

"Hey… There's no use thinking about it!" Peppita exclaimed. "Let's just dive right in!"

"Well, there you have it," Cliff smirked. "Decisiveness is a virtue."

"What do you think, fearless leader?" Cyrus asked Fayt. "Time's cut short."

"You guys are right…" he said in agreement. "Let's go, everybody. Let's find and defeat the

Creator!"

"Hell yeah!" With that said, the group pulled out their weapons and ran through the Time Gate.

Part 18.2: Rebels Without an Existence

The team reached the other side, weapons drawn and game faces on. Unfortunately, the dimension they landed in wasn't as they expected. Standing in front of them were a group of people who were mystified and confused. One woman even screamed for the fact that strange people jumped out of a display. Cyrus looked around and smiled. "Yo, yo, yo my people, what's up!" he shouted. "Can I here you say ahhhhh!" The same woman screamed again. "Not you," he quickly said.

"It seems we've made a scene," Nel said.

"Where are the Executioners here?" Fayt pondered.

"Who knows..." Maria said as she looked around. "But I do know that we arrived in 4D Space."

"We made it safely!" Sophia said as she grabbed Cyrus tightly. "What a relief."

"Girl got grip..." Cyrus strained. "Please... can't... breathe..." Sophia noticed Cyrus' cries for help and released him. The young shizznit began gasping for air.

"Wait a second," Cliff said. "Aren't enemy bases a little... hectic?"

"That's usually the case," Nel said. "Are we in the right place?"

"Of course" Sophia said. "I mean, this is 4D Space. It has to."

"It is people," Cyrus said.

"What the hell's going on here?" Fayt asked.

Not too long after Fayt's question, a young boy walked over to the group. He was short, no higher than Peppita's shoulder. He had green hair, grey eyes and wore blue suit-like clothing. "Did I hear you say 'Executioner'?" he asked.

"Yes you did," Fayt said.

"Who are you?" Maria asked.

"Flad Garrand," the boy said plainly.

"That wasn't what we meant," Cliff said putting his hand on his forehead.

"Don't worry. I'm not one of the bad guys," Flad reassures.

"I wonder," Nel said.

"You can come to my house. I think you'll find what you're lookin' for there."

"It does sound like a good idea," Peppita said.

"I guess we could," Cliff said. "He doesn't look dangerous."

"You could be right," Maria said. "We might find what we seek there."

"That's true," Sophia said.

"Okay then," Fayt agreed. "Let's move. He may know something about the Executioners that we don't know."

"'Nothing ventured, nothing gained' as they say," Cliff quoted.

"That's true," Nel agreed.

"Agreed," Maria replied.

"Hurry before security comes!" Flad rushed. "It's this way!"

"Fine by me," Cyrus said as they followed Flad. "We've attracted enough company as is,"

Flad led them to a house on a high hill. They walked in and a strange barrier (perhaps the door) lowered as they entered. "Mom, I'm hooome," Flad called.

"Welcome back–" A woman with a green shirt and dark blue garment said but cut herself off as she saw the group. "Flad, who are those people? And what's with those weird outfits?"

"Callin' our clothin' weird," Cyrus whispered to Maria.

"Who these?" Flad asked innocently. "They're just some friends of mine."

"Friends of yours..." Flad's mother repeated suspiciously. "I see..."

"Yeah," Peppita said. "We're sorta new around here."

"We're from a place far, far away," Cyrus said.

Flad led the group further into his house. Cyrus turned and saw the eyes of the mother warily looking on. Cyrus knew to be prepared for her scorn. However, there was nothing he could do now, so he returned back to the group on the floor below gathering in front of Flad. "Okay, let's get down to business," the boy said. Flad turned to Fayt and asked, "What's your name and where were you from?"

"Why would you want to know?" Cliff wondered.

"Nothing really. I just want to check something."

"I guess that's okay," Fayt said. "I'm Fayt Leingod from the planet Earth."

A keyboard appeared in front of Flad. "Let's see..." The boy began pressing commands on the console. Several windows opened and closed until a bleep was heard. "Okay." A screen popped up that showed the planet Earth. "Wow! So you are who I thought you were. Blair was right."

"Who's Blair?" Fayt asked.

"Okay, what's the dizzle?" Cyrus asked. "Dish out the dirt."

"Yes," Nel said. "Could you please tell us what's going on?"

"You're not related to the Executioners, right?" Cliff asked.

Flad began to think of an answer to the question. "No, not really..." he said. "How should I explain this? You came from the Eternal Sphere, right?"

"The what?" Peppita pondered.

"Here. Let me show you what I mean." Flad pressed another command on his console. A screen popped up showing another Federation ship being chased by a band of Enforcers. Just like what the group witnessed of the Aquaelie, the frigate didn't stand a chance against the awesome might of the Executioners.

"Hey, that's..." Fayt said.

"Why?" Sophia asked in concern and confusion.

"That's one of the battles against the Federation and the Executioners..." Maria replied.

"That's correct," Flad said. "This is what's going on in the Eternal Sphere."

"Going on?" Cliff replied. "Spit it out in Terran, kid. What the hell is the Eternal Sphere?"

"Calm down," Flad reassured. "I'll tell you everything. You see the Eternal Sphere is a universe inside a simulator. Earth is one of the planets inside it."

"Okay, keep going," Cyrus said.

"You can watch the Eternal Sphere and the occurrences inside any terminal. You guys are the characters and everything you have seen is part of the simulator."

Everybody was quiet. What Flad was saying made Sophia turn to Fayt and ask. "What is he talking about?"

"… We're just…characters living inside the simulator?"

"Yep."

"In other words, we're programs?"

"Well, that's one way to put it."

"So the whole universe is nothing but a game?" Peppita asked.

Flad shook his head. "Nope. It's an online reality everyone shares. It can't be reset or shut off like you would with any other game. It's kinda like a parallel world in some ways."

"You're saying we're puppets for you to control?" Fayt blurted.

"Kinda, yeah. But not really. You all have individual AI's, so you're not any different from us than we are of you. It isn't like we move you guys around with a joystick or a click of a button. That's why I think you're almost the same as us. The only difference is that you live in another dimension."

"Thus the parallel world," Maria quoted.

"You got it."

"Wait, you said an online reality, right?" Cyrus pondered.

"That's right."

"And with the other stuff you just said, that means... we're you guy's avatars of an online RPG? If that's the case, than that would mean me or you guys are being controlled by some kind of strange nerd dude with dimples, big glasses, a lonely disposition and what not."

"That's another way to sum it up," Flad said.

"So tell us about the Executioners?" Fayt asked. "Are they programs, too?"

"Exactly. According to the last press release, a virus was found in the 'Milky Way' galaxy of the Eternal Sphere. It said that if they don't do something, the virus will spread through the whole program. The Executioners were sent to delete the anomalies that caused the problem."

"What kind of anomalies?" Cyrus asked.

"The most recent happened a week ago. It was said that two different AI programs had mysteriously entered the Eternal Sphere. It was unknown where they came from, but it was clear that the first one seemed to be controlling the virus."

"Two mysterious AI's..." Fayt thought. Then the idea hit him and he turned to Cyrus. "Wait... Cyrus, you came from a different universe, right?"

"That's right."

"One of the AI's he's talking about... it must be you!"

"And the other must be..."

"Exactly!"

"You mean you're the strange AI?" Flad asked.

"'Strange' is such a harsh word," Cyrus said. "I'd prefer 'enigmatic'. But I'll tell you this, I ain't the glitch in the system."

"Of course," Maria said. "That must be Lystara Catalysta. She must be the one behind this."

"So all the Executioners are doing are fixing data?" Peppita asked.

"This is nuts!" Cliff said. "I knew they weren't gods, but now you're saying they're programs."

"If this is all true and we're just programs, how are we able to exist?" Sophia asked. "This should be impossible."

"Now that is something I have no clue on," Flad replied.

"It must be Maria's power- the Alteration gene," Fayt said.

"The power given by Professor Leingod. A program created by a program."

"All I can say is that irony is a bitch," Cyrus quoted.

"Say, kid, how do you know about this stuff?" Cliff asked Flad.

"Easy. 'Cause my friend works at the place that made the Eternal Sphere. Her name is Blair and she told me all about you guys. But seriously, I'm not one of the bad guys."

"So how come you brought us here."

"Umm... Curiosity, mainly. Think about it, game characters coming to the real world. It's like a dream come true!"

"You're telling me," Cyrus said.

"So, you're here to beat the Executioners, right? What do you think your chances are? Do you think you can do it?" Before anyone knew, a group of men with large guns and heavy suits appeared on the top floor of the home. Their massive armory was aimed right at the group. "Security?"

"Bad guys?" Cliff said in surprise.

"You turned on us?" Fayt asked.

"I didn't do anything!" Flad quickly retorted.

"Freeze!" one of the Security officers shouted. "Get your hands up!"

"You're all under arrest!" another said.

"You got nothin' on me, porkchop!" Cyrus yelled.

Flad's mother appeared at the scene. "Mom, did you call Security?" Flad asked.

"What was I supposed to do? I was worried about you..."

"Can't you just mind your own business."

"What do we do now?" Cliff asked.

"Whatever it is, we can't get caught," Fayt replied.

"You have a point there," Peppita said.

"Shall we?" Maria asked.

"I'm way ahead of ya," Cyrus said. The group ran out of the house, but they were stopped by another group of Security. Before they could turn around, the first group had appeared with their weapons drawn.

"Surrender quietly and no one will get hurt," one of the officials said.

"Sorry, we don't surrender," Cyrus replied. "Cramps our style. Hey guys, where I'm from, we have ways of dealing with pigs."

"Then let's teach them a lesson," Maria said.

Cyrus started playing "Deep Cover" by Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre and pulled out his light saber. The group rushed at the cops and attacked. The odds were against the group of seven, but they showed that numbers wasn't everything. With a few powerful attacks, the squad was taken out fairly quickly.

"D-Damn you!" groaned one of the fallen Security soldiers.

"Seems the NYPD became DOA'd through the 187. Gone in 60 seconds know what I'm sayin'?" Cyrus gloated as he struck a pose with his arms crossed, left leg bent forward and cap turned back.

"For once, I do know what you said," Nel said. Cyrus looked at her surprised. "This was just too easy."

"You two are right," Cliff agreed. "You would think that everyone in 4D was as tough as the Executioners."

"Maybe the Executioners are exceptions," Sophia said.

"They must have been specially created for the Eternal Sphere," Maria said.

Fayt nodded. "I guess you're right."

The Security force rose up. "This isn't over!" one of them yelled.

"You'll all pay!" another shouted as they left.

"Well come back here and show us what you got," Cliff mocked.

"Hey guys..." a voice said. They turned around and saw Flad with an object in his hand. "This is for you," he said.

Cliff caught the item. It appeared to be a disk. "What's this?" he asked and gave it to Cyrus.

"If you don't believe what I said, than you should go check it out, yourselves! There's a special Eternal Sphere terminal at Gemity. Try it!"

Flad's mother appeared and was not in a happy mood. "Flad, quit this nonsense!" she ordered. "Now get back inside and do your work!"

"Awww, moooommm..." he groaned as he was getting pushed back inside.

Cliff huffed. "Smart little brat," he said.

"I guess kids are kids, no matter where you are," Peppita replied.

"You're one to talk," Cyrus said.

"Ha ha, that's very funny!" Peppita retorted. Cyrus only chuckled at her reaction.

The group left and walked around town, looking for a way out of their current location. "It's strange," Maria said to Cyrus.

"What do you mean?" Cyrus asked.

"Look around you. All of these people... very few of them are working," she studied.

"Yeah," Cyrus agreed. "All they do is play around on the sim every single day. Not even I do that."

"They seem to be a fortunate society, but is that really the case?"

"After all, appearances can be deceiving," Cyrus then he lowered his head, brim covering the eyes. "Maria, do you think that we can defeat the Creator? I mean, he's the one that made you guys and the universe."

"If you're asking that, then you should also ask if we'll also defeat Lystara."

"True."

"Are you feeling alright?"

"Of course, why wouldn't I? It's just... well..." Maria gave him a confused look as Cyrus tried to get the words out of his mouth. "To be perfectly quaint, I just do want to have somethin' happen to you... er, or anyone else. The power of the Creator in 4D Space is one thing, but Lystara is "

"Cyrus... Don't worry. I promise that we will defeat the Creator and Lystara. We are fighting not just for the universe, but for our own being."

"You right."

"And Cyrus, do remember when you said you had my back?"

"Yeah?"

"Well, I have yours too." Maria gave a sweet smile to Cyrus. Cyrus gave a small chuckle.

Unfortunately, the moment was interrupted once more by Peppita again with her small chuckle. The two snapped back to reality to see both her and the group looking at them. "Man, is it just me, or is Cyrus trying to flirt with Maria?" Peppita said wryly.

"No!" they both said in unison. They were a little embarrassed and began blushing.

"We were just–" Cyrus began.

"Talking," Maria finished.

"Of course you were," Cliff replied. "If that's the case, then how come you're both as red as apples?"

"Er... Blood rush!" Cyrus quickly replied.

"Right," Maria said in agreement. "We are about to face the one responsible for destroying our universe, after all."

"How about you to just start kissing now," Peppita said. Both victims of the conversation gave her evil looks that sent shivers up her spine.

Nel knew it was time to break it up. She cleared her throat and said, "Don't you think we should be going?"

"Nel's right," Fayt said. "The sooner we go to this Gemity, the better."

"Yeah!" Cyrus said. "You all should drop this and continue on with our trek."

"Nah," Cliff said. "We'll still tease you about this."

"Just remember who has a particle sword and a cursed blade," Cyrus reminded with a grin. Cliff gave a nervous chuckle at the hinted threat. Fayt shook his head and led the group through the portal. They arrived at another part of Arkives where the main terminal of the town was located. They stood on the platform and saw another transportation device like the one they used. They walked through it and were at a new area with a large building in front of them.

"What is this?" Nel asked.

"From the looks of it," Cliff analyzed, "it's some kind of station."

"Let's take a look," Fayt suggested. They went in the building. Inside was an aisle that led to a dome shaped device.

Sophia began checking out a screen at the side of the room. "That must be our ticket to Gemity," Maria replied.

"It's almost like a transporter," Fayt said.

"According to what I got from one of the people when I got here, this is called a Spacetime Station," Cyrus explained. "It is similar to you guy's transporter except for a few exceptions."

"Like what?" Cliff asked.

"For one, it doesn't delete and copy atomic structures at the same time. It actually sends the spatial conjunctions as a whole to the next station. Think of it as cut and paste. Second, you can't go any where you want. The government is limits where a person can go unless they have their approval. Now think of that as bureaucracy."

"I see..." Fayt said.

Sophia came back to the group after she read the information. "The board says that Gemity is an amusement city."

"Amusement, huh?" Peppita said. "I wonder what it's like."

"We won't know unless we find out," Fayt said.

"Let's go!" Cyrus said in a tone like Lil Jon's (if you ever seen the Chappelle's Show when he does the skit 'In the Day in the Life of Lil Jon', you'd know what I mean). They went inside the machine and were transported to another station.

They went out the building and were at awe when they got outside. "This must be Gemity. The place Flad told us about."

"Amazing..." Sophia said.

"This place is off the hook!" Cyrus replied.

"What do you mean?" Nel said as she put her hand over her eyes. "My eyes are hurting from all the light."

"Just looking at this brings in the fact that these guys really did make our universe," Cliff said.

"So it seems..." Fayt said.

"Now's not the time to stand and stare," Maria said. "We have a terminal to find and see if this Eternal Sphere thing is true."

"We sorta blend in here perfectly," Cyrus said. "Most of the people here are dressed as some of the things we know. Incapacitator, Foxtail, Michael Jackson," he said as he pointed to the people. "This is like one of them cosplay convention things."

"So we might as well be saying we're already in costume?" Peppita asked.

"From the sound of it, yes," Sophia said. The group moved forward, walking through the city streets. It wasn't long until they reached a large area filled with different transporters leading to different areas and one large building in the center.

"Oh wow!" said an impressed Peppita. "There's so much to do here!"

"Now I see why it's the amusement city," Fayt said.

"It's like a theme park with no entry fee," Cyrus said.

"I wonder what's there," Peppita said, pointing to a transporter with a bunnyman sign on the ground below it.

"Wait, we can't do that..." Fayt said.

"We have more important things in mind," Maria said.

"Only for a few minutes," Peppita said as she begun making a puppy like face.

"We can do it a little later," Fayt said. "But right now, we have to get to the terminal."

"Oh right," the Velbaysian said in a tired voice. The group went to the right side of the building and stepped in the transporter. The group found themselves in a small area with a woman behind the desk.

"Where are we now?" Sophia asked. We must be inside the building.

"Hey," Cliff said. "Aren't we forgetting someone?"

Fayt looked at his group and found saw that Cyrus wasn't with them. "Where did Cyrus go?"

"Hello, miss," a casual, yet young voice said. Fayt turned around and there was Cyrus leaning against the attendant's desk.

"Can I help you?" the woman asked.

"Yes, you may." Cyrus turned around and signaled the group his location. "Can you, by any chance, tell us where we are?"

"Of course. This is the master terminal of Sphere's interactive, multiple timespace program, the Eternal Sphere. You can send the same character data that you use at home to another time or

galaxy with this system. Of course, you can also use this terminal just as you would use any other ordinary terminal."

"Send character data?" Sophia asked.

"They must mean like a memory card for a game console," Cyrus said. "And she said to another time or place. For all we know, we can go to the age of dinosaurs and no one could care less."

"And why would we want to do that?" Peppita asked.

"I was trying to make a point," Cyrus said as he rubbed his forehead.

"But we don't have any character data," Cliff said. "So how are we supposed to get in."

"It seems we have to take our chances," Maria suggested.

"Is there a problem?" the attendant asked.

"Oh, not at all," Fayt said. "We would like to use the terminal, please."

"Very well. A little word of caution. The Milky Way galaxy of the Eternal Sphere is locked due to technical difficulties. If you were playing in the Milky Way, I must ask you to play in another galaxy."

"Yeah, right," Cliff said under his breath.

"Please stand back in front of me and close your eyes. As your guide to other worlds, it is my solemn duty to send you to the Eternal Sphere safely."

The group gathered in front of the desk and closed their eyes. "Let 'er rip," Peppita said.

On the floor where they were standing, a large insignia was forming. "Reeyoo, luoca, nasei, keeyoo," the attendant chanted. "Open for us, door between space and time!"

The group was sent to a new space. By the time they opened their eyes, the group looked at the surroundings around them. The place looked like the inside of a grandfather clock. The only other thing in the room with them was the terminal they were searching for. "Well, we're here," Cliff said. "What's next?"

Sophia saw the terminal and had an idea. "I think we should try that device. Maybe we'll be able to change the settings."

"Wouldn't hurt," Maria said. The group went over to the device. When Maria went to check out a device, a platform closed behind her. As soon as she sat down, a console appeared. She begin pressing commands on its keypad, but an unpromising sound was heard. "...it's no good," she said. "Without an ID disk, there is no way to access. The only other way is if we register."

"And that would mean starting from scratch," Fayt said with a nod of agreement from Maria. "Damn!" he said as he stomped on the ground.

"Let's not have a hizzle fizzle," Cyrus said, trying to calm down Fayt. "What about this thing?" Cyrus pulled out the disk Cliff handed him after it was caught by Flad earlier.

"That could be what the machine's asking for," Sophia said.

"Worth a shot," Maria said. Cyrus handed her the disk and Maria slid it in the slot. The terminal's screens popped up as it was loading the disk's data. "Okay, this is looking good," she reported. As she began typing access into the Milky Way, another, less favorable message appeared and the screen went static. "Now this looks bad," she said.

"What happened now?" Cliff asked.

"We were authorized weren't we?" Fayt asked.

"Yes, but it's like Flad and the attendant said," Maria replied. "The Milky Way is locked out. We can't get in."

"So we can't go back home?" Peppita asked.

"I guess not," Cyrus said.

"Wait, Maria," Sophia said. "Is it okay if I looked into it?"

"I don't see why not," Maria answered. The blue-haired captain got up from her seat and stood back from the terminal. As soon as Sophia touched the machine, a strange energy surge occurred. The group saw familiar areas appear around them.

"Hey, look!" Peppita said.

"Arias, Castle Aquaria, Kirlsa..." Nel said as she look at each image.

"Whipple, Styx..." Fayt said.

Maria went back to the terminal and sat down. She typed on the console and found a welcomed surprise. "Amazing!" she said. "I have full system administrator privileges!"

"But how?"

"Sophia must have done something to the terminal's system when she touched it."

"But how?" Sophia said. "All I did was touch it. I had a feeling that I could do the same thing I did at the Time Gate. I wished as hard as I could to get back home. I'm sorry again..."

"Don't be," Cyrus said. "It the power of the Connection gene. You shouldn't apologize."

"I didn't know it could have an affect in 4D Space, too," Fayt said.

"The good doctor must have put something extra in your codin'. It's almost the same as me surviving in this dimension and yours without an issue or something."

"Perhaps..."

"We can ponder about that later," Maria said. "All that matters is that we're in. I'll grant myself access to the Milky Way, and leave it open with a trojan. With that, I'll be able to access it whenever I want."

"All right, Maria!" Cyrus applauded. "Is there anything I can do?"

"Not right now. This will only take a few minutes."

"I guess I need to take a stretch." Cyrus left Maria to her work. It wasn't long until he noticed Nel, who was looking around her surroundings, mesmerized by some of the familiar and unfamiliar sights. "Weird, ain't it?" Cyrus asked.

"That's one way of putting it. Cyrus do you remember when we first met?"

"How can't I?" Cyrus asked snidely. "The choices were: A. Come help us, B. Stay and rot in a cage or C. Meet a swift and painful death." Nel gave a slight chuckle. "But I wonder why you brought that up?"

"Well, when we first met, I had a feeling that we were going to have an adventure. What we've been through, however, was far from what I had ever expected. I learned about the strange worlds that you come from. But this 4D Space... It's so bizarre. And now that we found this terminal thing, will it prove that these 4D Beings really created us? Personally I hope not."

"I know what you mean, Nel. Even I'm having some thoughts. In my own existence, it was 4D Space. But now that I'm in your dimension, and I'm sure that the history there is no different, is it possible that I may not be one of this plain? And if that is true and here I was an avatar for some guy, than would it mean that 4D Space is being controlled the same way?"

There was silence between them. "This is an enigma," Nel said with her arms folded. "However, just because we were created, doesn't mean our thoughts and feelings can be controlled as such."

"That's true. We all have our own individuality."

"I have and always will believe that the gods created our worlds. However, I will never believe that they made it for pure amusement."

"And even if I'm not from this universe, I won't just stand here and watch you guys and myself be destroyed."

"Hey you two," Cliff called. "Maria's done entering us in."

"Well, this is it," Nel said. "The moment of truth."

"Yes," Cyrus agreed. "Let's jet." The two walked back to the group.

"Alright, everything's set," Maria said. "So, where do you guys want to go?"

"Anywhere's okay," Sophia said.

"I wonder how Clair and the others are doing?" Nel pondered. "How about we go to my world?"

"I think we should go to Elicoor II, too," Cyrus said in agreement. "After all, if we're really going to defeat that Creator dude, we need reinforcements."

"They're right," Fayt said. "Let's go."

"To Elicoor II, is it?" Maria asked. "Alright then, let's go." Maria pressed the keys on the console. As soon as she did, the space began distorting.

"What's going–?" Cyrus was cut off by a flash of light and a high pitched scream coming from Sophia.

Part 18.3: Bringing on the Cavalry

In about a few minutes, the group found themselves walking out of a small square on the ground. They looked around their familiar surroundings and saw that they were at where they wanted to be. It was the Aire Hills of Elicoor II. "Hey," Peppita said. "Where are we?"

"This is... Elicoor II, as you call it?" Nel said. "My home world."

"We've made it, G's," Cyrus said.

"It's unbelievable that we made it here with only a click of a button," Cliff said. "We got here without even using the Time Gate."

"So it seems that what Flad said was true," Maria replied.

"So that would mean we're just programs?" Sophia asked.

"No way!" Fayt said with a hint of anger. "That would mean the deaths of everyone we're known- Dion, Ameena, the Commodore- everything we've seen was based on a program?"

"So it seems," said Maria. "But even if that were true, we're still living. I mean, anything that we perceive as reality has to be to us, right?"

"Of course," Cyrus agreed.

"I know we're alive," Peppita said. "We just gotta be!"

Sophia took Fayt's hand and held it up. "You got to believe what's in your heart, Fayt," she said to him. "Let's choose to believe, okay?"

Fayt's attitude change from worried to happy. He smiled and said, "You're right. If we stop now, we'll let down my father and the entire crew on the Aquaelie."

"They sacrificed themselves for us to do this," Nel said. "If we're going to honor them, we must complete this task."

"We need to teach the Creator a lesson for what he's done to us," Cliff said as he punched his fist in his hand.

"You two know it's going to be dangerous," Cyrus said to Peppita and Nel.

"You're telling us?" Peppita asked mockingly. "Like I said before, I'll help anyway I can."

"Besides, if this isn't what we need to risk our lives for, than what is?" Nel said. Cyrus smiled and nodded.

"But is it possible we can defeat the Creator, a 4D Being?" Sophia asked.

"Of course," Maria responded. "We defeated the Security team, so we know we can hurt them."

"You're right."

"It's ironic when you think about it," Cyrus said. "We're going to defeat the Creator at his own game, and we're the characters."

"Strange, isn't it?" Nel asked.

"So, where to first?" Cliff asked Fayt.

"Since we're closer to Kirlsa, we should go there and pick up Albel."

"Do we really have to?" Nel hissed with her hand on her forehead.

"I know it will be hard, but we need to do what needs to be done."

"Yeah, but Albel?" Cliff asked.

"Um, who's Albel?" Sophia asked.

"Oh, simply put, he's a man you love to hate," Cyrus replied.

"With the clothing sense to match," Cliff added.

"I see..."

"Well, let's get this over with," Maria said as she was already going to the mining town. Fayt looked at the group whose only reply were a few nods and a shrug from Cliff. They went to Count Woltar's Manor at the north of town. They went into his office and saw the old man writing letters.

"Yo, yo, CW," Cyrus said. "What's crackin'?"

"I do not know what you mean, young one," he said. When he turned his faces to the group, he was surprised to see them in his room, though he made sure to contain his shock. Instead he chuckled. "I should of known it was you. I didn't expect to see you here so soon."

"We thought we could stop by for a visit," Cliff said.

"What's that?" Nel asked, wondering what Count Woltar was writing.

"This, oh here you go?" The Count passed it on to Fayt.

"Let's see..." Cyrus said as he peered over Fayt. "'Injury payments'? Sounds fun," he sarcastically replied.

"Read it," Woltar said. "I'm sure you'll be entertained."

"Okay... 'Black Brigade Post of the Kirlsa Training Facility. Numbers of soldiers suffering the following injuries: twenty-three with broken hips, twelve with dislocated shoulders, seventeen with broken ankles, two with broken noses, nineteen with broken arms, and one dead... Kirlsa Calico'?"

"Yes. It seems one of the soldier's pets were killed in the event."

"Look down here," Maria noticed. "'Cause of injuries: Albel Nox. Cost of Injuries: 25,000 Fol.'"

The group looked at Woltar, who did not stir, only shook his head and sighed. "To tell you the truth, this is one of his good days," he simply replied. "One time, his actions costed me 78,000 Fol. to clean up after."

"When you put it that way..." Peppita said.

"Speaking of which, do you have some business with him?"

"Yes," Fayt said. "Is he here?"

"I'm afraid not. You see, all of his adventures that he's had with you had ignited a spark within him."

"From the looks of this bill, I'm sure he's on fire," Cyrus whispered to Nel.

"As always," Nel replied.

"So do you know where he went?" Cliff asked.

Woltar shook his head. "I'm afraid after that incident, Albel hasn't been seen since. I'm sure he is training at a place where the sweat will be pouring off his body like a waterfall."

"This is funny," Nel said. "I would never of known the great Albel would resort to combat training."

"It is kind of funny," Cyrus replied. "So, where should we go if we want to turn off the stove?"

"How about we go to the Lava Caves?" Maria asked. "If Albel would go train somewhere, he would pick a place filled with monsters and where no one else would go." The group nodded and headed for the mountains. During the trek, Cyrus rode his bike, the Shadow Blaze as he traveled with the group.

After a few hours of walking and riding up the mountains, the group had arrived in Crossel's lair. They found a still tired Crossel and a sweating Albel. The Glyphian was on the podium practicing with his katana while the dragon laid down, still exhausted from carrying the group, defeating a bio-engineered dragon from another dimension and bearing a large runological cannon. It was only a chuckle from Peppita that made Albel turn around with an embarrassed look on his face. "What the–?" He quickly sheathed his sword

"Wow," Peppita said. "You must either be the prettiest man I've seen, or the ugliest girl I've seen."

"You will pay dearly for that comment, maggot," Albel growled.

"So that's Albel?" Sophia asked.

"Yeah," Cyrus said. "Don't let the dress fool you, that's a dude."

"It's a sarong, you fool!" Albel snapped.

"Nice to meet you, too," Cyrus replied in sarcasm. "Hey, Crossel, dragon brother from another mother. What's up, homie?"

Crossel only groaned in agony. "One of you small humans in my domain is enough," the tired dragon said. "Why is it so hard to rest in peace?"

"No 'hi', no smile. Boy, you know how to leave a dude hangin'."

"Speaking of which, what brings you worms here?" Albel asked.

"We thought you were here, so we came to stop by," Fayt said.

"Curious. Well, now that you came, you can leave all the same."

"What ch'ya doin'?" Peppita asked in joy.

"None of your business, fool."

"Albel, Albel, Albel," Cliff said.

"You're still the same as always," Maria replied.

"What's it to you, wench?"

"I know what's wrong," Maria said playfully.

"What is it you want to say, wench?"

"Albel the Wicked, Captain of the Black Brigade, doing combat training," she teased.

"Me? C-Combat training? What insolence! Silence, woman!" It was clear to everyone that they got him on the spot.

"Uh-oh," Cliff said wryly with a big smile on his face. "You seem to have struck a cord."

"Now this in my time is what we call 'genuine comedy'," Cyrus said.

"Silence, you fools!"

"Oh come on. So you see a little issue with your style here, found a little flaw there, big deal. We've all been on that road."

"Silence, worms! Silence!"

"I wonder what the soldiers will say when we tell them about this?" Nel wondered.

Albel growled and bit his lip. The last thing he needed was for his soldier to know that he was training. He knew there was no denying what was happening. "Fine, maggots, I'm training. Happy?"

"Okay... Sca-ree..." Cliff muttered.

"And since you're here, I wish to duel you, blue-haired maggot." The group looked with confusion at Fayt and Maria. The two themselves were also whimsical at Albel's request. "The one with the sword, fools!" he shouted. "The one with the sword!"

"But wait a minute!" Fayt replied. "How come... Why do you want to fight me?"

"What a pathetic question," Albel hissed. "To see who is stronger. You..." Albel pulled out his sword. "...or me."

"What's the point of this?"

"The only point is at the end of my blade, maggot. Now, try not to disappoint me," Albel said with his blade pointed at his rival.

"I think you have no choice," Cyrus said. "It's looks like Albel really want to fight. Well," the shizznit said as he put his hand on Fayt's shoulder, "just remember one thing."

"What's that?"

"You've made Albel happy. I mean look at his smile..." The two looked at the warrior who eyes gleamed a bloodthirsty twinkle and his 'smile' showed that he was in fact grinding his teeth. "Plus, in order to defeat the Creator, you need all the practice you can get. Time to start keepin' it real." With that said, Cyrus and the group moved away from the floor and onto the platform that Crossel was laying on.

Albel jumped from the platform and landed a few yards from Fayt. His target was in sight and the Glyphian rushed at him at his max speed. Fayt dodged the first slash and blocked the next. At that block, Albel shoved away Fayt and quickly used his metal claw. However, Fayt sidestepped out of the man's way and used a powerful Side Kick. Albel staggered back, but as soon as he regained balance, he wiped his face and gave a malevolent smirk. He zig-zagged straight at the blue-haired hero. Fayt was unable to get out of the way as Albel's claw made impact and sent the swordsman flying. Seeing him on the ground, Albel jumped up and was ready to stab right through him. Fayt opened his eyes at the right moment and rolled to the side. Albel's blade got stuck in the ground. Fayt knew that now was the time to capitalize. He quickly ran to Albel and used Shotgun Blast. Each small explosion from his lowering hand caused considerable amount of damage and made Albel move back with his sword, that was also pulled out of the ground. With the distance put between the two, the Glyphian knew it was time to for his Air Slash. He kicked up a small, fast moving shock wave with his sword. Fayt dodged two of the waves, but was unable to evade the third. Before Fayt could react, the attack had made contact. Fayt was knocked back. Albel then used Charge. Like a purple comet, Albel rammed Fayt at incredible speeds. The group was in shock as they saw Fayt fly back and fall hard on the ground. Albel took advantage of his predicament and was ready to slash. Every second, the blade of Albel's sword was coming down closer to Fayt's body. Fayt saw the dangerous blow coming.He quickly rose and blocked the move by holdinging his sword above his head. Albel was pushing down as Fayt was pushing up. Fayt used all of his might and was able to push Albel away. He quickly moved back and used all three strikes of Blade of Fury. As soon as Fayt performed the move, Albel knelt down in defeat. The battle was over.

"Damn!" Albel snapped. "Not again!"

"I'm sorry..." Fayt replied.

"Are you okay?" Sophia asked with a concerned look on her face.

"I'm fine," Fayt reassured. "Don't worry about me."

"You may have been training since we left, but that doesn't mean Fayt's been twiddling his fingers, either," Cliff said.

"Shut up, maggot," Albel hissed. He got up and walked a few feet away while scratching his katana with his metal claw.

"What are you thinking about, Nox," Nel asked with cautious eyes.

"Though it is none of your business, fool, I will tell you. It seems that training alone will not help improve my skill. In order to do that, I will venture with you maggots to find out what makes you strong. Then I shall use that knowledge to crush you."

"So wait a minute," Cyrus replied. "You want to join with us, study our tactics and then stab us in the backs, later?"

"That's right."

"Well, at least he's honest," Cliff replied. "Though, I don't think..."

"Who asked what you thought, fool," Albel interrupted. "My mind's been made up. I am going with you."

Maria shook her head. "I guess we have no choice but to take him along."

Cyrus sighed. "Welcome back, ol' wicked G dog."

"Don't get too comfortable," Albel warned. "Just because I'm in this group, don't expect me to lend my hand in battle."

"Like we want that claw of yours," Nel said.

"What was that, woman?" Both warriors were exchanging glares.

"Okay, since we're done here, how about we go to Arias?" Cyrus replied.

"For who?" Sophia asked.

"A man whose age gave him wisdom and power beyond our own. A man whose swordsmanship is only surpassed by his symbology. A man–"

"You mean that gray-haired wench's old man?" Albel shouted.

"Why do you always have to break the grove? But yes, Adray."

"Do we really need to ask him?" Cliff whined. "The guys smells as if he hasn't taken a shower in twenty some-odd years."

"That's just too much info," Sophia replied.

"But he is powerful, nonetheless," Fayt agreed. "I think he'll want to go on this journey."

"This is foolish," Albel replied. "Then again, I shouldn't expect much from you."

"And yet you decided to come along," Cliff pointed out.

"Watch it, maggot."

"This is going to be one long walk," Sophia said.

"With Albel, it's only going to be longer," Cliff replied as they left Crossel's lair.

It took about a few hours from the Bequerel Mountain Pass to reach Arias. Though the village was still in ruination, it was showing signs of repair. They went down to the mansion and inside the meeting room where Clair was looking out the window. "Hello, Claire," Nel greeted.

Clair looked back and her face glowed. "Nel! Where have you been?"

"It's a long story, Clair. And one unbelievable at that. If it isn't too much trouble, we need to see Adray."

"Oh. Father's off on a pilgrimage to an island, again."

"I swear, I think the Magistrate is just sending him to those places just to get rid of him."

"For once, that sniveling coward is doing something worthwhile," Albel said to himself. The group looked at him. "What? Can't I say what's on my mind?"

"Please, Albel..." Fayt said.

"Bah..." was the swordsman's only response.

"Well, thanks," Nel said.

"Anytime. And Nel, please be careful. I don't know what's going on, but please come back safely." Nel replied with a nod and the group followed her out the mansion.

"Well, Adray's gone," Peppita said. "So, where next?"

"Let's go to Surferio," Fayt said. "We can pick up Roger and leave."

"Why do we have to pick up that little brat?"

"For once, Goldy Locks has a point," Cliff said. Albel glared at the Klausion, who sweated a little. "Still, why should we bring him?"

"The little maggot's despicable, he hasn't bathed..."

"And he's an annoying little worm that thinks he's a man."

"The kid doesn't know a thing about women."

"Just like two people I know..." Cyrus muttered to himself.

"What was that?" Both Cliff and Albel shouted at both sides of the fear-stricken shizznit.

"I meant two other people I know," he said, chuckling nervously.

"He still helped us in the past," Fayt said.

"True, right in between his perverted acts," Nel replied.

"So he has a bravado," Cyrus said. "Who hasn't at the age of 12... Maybe we can stuff him into small spaces, or something."

Cliff laughed. "Sounds like an idea to me."

"It's settled," Fayt said. "Let's go."

It took another couple hours, but they made it to Surferio. On one of the bridges, the group saw the form of one of Roger's members, Melt. "Yo, kid," Cliff said.

Melt turned around and waved. "Hey, it's you guys."

"I see you remembered," Cyrus replied. "How's Roger doin' with the stuff we found?"

"He's just fiddling around with them, as usual. He also told some interesting stories."

"Like what?"

"Like when he said he defeated those Celestial Ships all by himself."

"What?" Cliff said in disbelief.

Maria only shook her head. "Did he, now?" she asked.

"Yeah, right after taking on two dragons and defeating Albel Nox!"

"He what?" Albel yelled. "When I find that lying maggot, I'm going to tear his ass to shreds!"

"Why am I not surprise?" Nel asked herself flatly.

"You really are a charmer," Cyrus said sarcastically.

"Can you tell us where he is?" Fayt asked.

"Sure," Melt replied. "He's at his house over near the cave."

"Okay, thanks."

"No problem. By the way, he said that you guys are now official members of his crew."

"I feel so honored," Cyrus replied. The group went to his house on the other side of Surferio.

Roger was busy looking at some of the objects they've found from the book. When he looked in the mirror, Roger saw the reflections of the group. He thought he was hallucinating and began to rub his eyes. When he looked again, he knew it wasn't seeing things. "Hey guys," the Menodix said in a cheery voice. "What're you doing here?"

"We were in the neighborhood so we came to say hi," Fayt said.

"Is that all? Please, make yourselves at home."

"Love to, but can't," Cyrus said. "We have an important appointment to go to."

"Is that so?"

"Pretty much," Peppita said.

"Is it an adventurous one?" Roger asked, with a little intrigue in his voice.

"If you want to call it that, then yes," Cliff said.

"Really! Why didn't you just say that before! Let me come, too!"

"I still think this is nuts..." Albel said.

"Why you say that! Think I'll get in the way?"

Before Albel said anything, Cyrus quickly intervened. "Of course not," Cyrus said. "In fact, that's why we're here."

"All right! You have nothing to fear. Roger, men among men, is here. I'll work harder than a sailor on a leaky boat!"

"Wait..." Cliff said. "Don't leaky boats capsize? ...Give me a break."

"Don't sweat the details. Guys that do that are never popular with the ladies."

With that said, Maria and Nel started putting their hands on their foreheads. "Oh crap..." Maria said under her breath.

"Are you trying to give me advice?" Cliff said. "What are you, the love professor or something?"

"Quit yah yapping, you big lout!"

"I'd watch your tongue if I were you."

"Got a problem?"

"I always have problems with stinkin' brats."

"That's Sir Roger to you, ya oaf!"

"In that case, you can call me Lord King Super Cliff!"

"Yeah right."

"This is outrageous!" Albel shouted. "You two wouldn't be able to attract women if the world was devoid of men!"

"And that's why you dress as one?" the witty Roger asked.

"What else do you do?" Cliff wondered. "Do you also wear lipstick and makeup?"

"You damn maggots! At least I'm not some perverted midget or a muscle-bound imbecile."

"Who are you calling an imbecile?"

"I'll have you know that I'm regular sized for my age, thank you!"

"This is going nowhere," Nel said.

"Are they always like this?" Sophia asked.

"Unfortunately, yes," Fayt said.

"Well, as much as I would love to watch the squabbling trio, we have more pressing business to keep," Cyrus said.

The group nodded and they out of the house. It didn't take long for Albel, Cliff and Roger to notice that the group was gone. They quickly joined back with them near the entrance. "Are we ready?" Sophia asked.

"Of course," Maria said.

"Wait," Albel said. The group turned to the Glyphian who had his arms folded. "You maggots been asking us to join you ever since you came back."

"Is something wrong?" Fayt asked.

"You know, girly man has a point," Roger replied. "Why do you need our help?"

"Alright, I guess we can tell them." Fayt told Roger and Albel about what happened since they left. From when Nel saved them from Biwig, to when they learned that their entire universe was a video game.

"So we're going up against some 4D fool that's trying to destroy our universe?"

"That's right."

"And Cyrus is also from there, but has some stuff in his D-N-T?" Roger asked

"It's DNA, but that's right," Cyrus said. "And if we don't stop him, we're all in for it deep."

"You know, this is not what I was thinking when you said we were going on an adventure," Roger said.

"What's wrong," Nel asked. "Having second thoughts?"

"Me? Of course not," Roger said as he began feeling up Nel's leg. Nel began shivering. "I would never let you alone, m'lady."

Nel kicked Roger off of her thigh as soon as Roger's hand climbed too far. "I see some things may never change," Cliff said, with a hardy chuckle.

"What are we waiting for fools," Albel snorted.

"Albel's right," Fayt agreed. "Let's go." With that said, the group headed back to the Aire Hills.