Tales of The Cosmic War EXE Vol: The Secret War Beyond Good and Evil!

by Darth Necron

Five years after Ben Auro saved the universe from Chaos Zannacross Necron he is still helping try to guide the people to a better place alongside his lover Lacus Raystar. However they must reunite with their friends Mario,Cloud Strife, and others as everything they work for is threatened to unravel at the hands of the reality-destroying Incursion at the hands of the Beyonder!

22. C222:The Fabula Nova Crystallis Vexation

Chapter 222: The Fabula Nova Crystallis Vexation

The moment Ezan saw the Beyonder unleash his shock-wave, he powered up and grasped his girlfriend to protect her as much as he could. But the sliver haired warrior quickly saw for now the attack only seemed to affect the Neo-Highwind. The sliver haired warrior remained on guard as he quickly uttered," What's our status Cid?"

"I thought you had super eyes boy what's it look like to you!?" Cid growled out.

Cloud quickly looked at the nearest monitor before throwing out," What's the damage Cid? Can you recover form it?"

"I pulled this baby back from worst Cloud but, with how fast that planet's coming up I'll need all of Lady Luck's help to rebound in time! Better get your vomit bag's ready, no matter how this goes down it's not going to be a smooth landing!"

His fellow Enji nodded, and braced themselves. Those like Cloud, Squall, Vincent,Beatrix, Barret, and some of the other sturdier members among them like Alevn were able to help Cid with the needed system modifications. To everyone's relief the Beyonder's attack was not as fatal as they thought, and just as their ship descended past the atmosphere Cid showed the extent of his skill by slamming his fist on one of the controls, and having the Neo-Highwind stabilize as a result.

Cloud saw the lights return to normal around him and smirked." Cid...glad you have not gotten rusty during all the peace time."

"Like hell I'm going soft Cloud any time soon! Keeping all the hot shots who think they can act like me from crashing has been enough work as it is! Alright, she's bruised but she will pull through. So now what? We head back to regroup and find Ben and the others?"

Ezan took a deep breath before he looked at the atmosphere the ship just descended from, and then after a few moments looked at it with his Sharingan eyes before he tensed up." Don't be so hasty Cid. I can see there is an extremely powerful energy barrier now covering this entire planet.

It would seem this Beyonder let us off easily on purpose, for if I understood his pompous ranting correctly he wants us to be the most recent additions to this Battle-World game. Till we gather more information, it would be wise to make as few rash decisions as possible."

Cid eyed the sliver haired man carefully before he looked at his own scanners. After they confirmed the existence of a shield of energy around the planet the man from Rocket Town checked the barrier's energy levels and whistled." Damn...that makes the barrier around the capital planet look like a toy. Heh...I remember when this started you would have wanted to fight this Beyonder dude just for insulting your pride or something."

"Yes well...I'm not the same man that I was when I first joined the Enji Knights Highwind."

"Heh..and we are all better off for it. I'll give yah after how crazy things are here for all I know a wall will pop up in midair to screw with me. But if we are sticking around here just what's the game plan? From what Elrond said this land's supposed to be from planet Eos right? I got the data on it but if anyone has any firsthand experience on the place to fill me in on any possible surprises that would be swell. So spill the beans boys and girls, anyone take any vacations there in the last few years?"

Cid grumbled as his response was silence. However, before he could curse out a complaint Lighting walked up and cleared her throat." Can't say I been their personally. But, I do remember hearing about the world of Eos. It was, something Serah would talk about from time to time, something in the Fablua Nova Crystallis Bible about the planets near us, planets mentioned as holy sites bound to Cocoon by the Fal'Cie."

As everyone reacted to that news with various forms of displeasure Zidane just chuckled." Those were the angels machine servants that went crazy and made all the stupid choices on your planet right Lighting? Great, I felt recently I was lacking enough encounters with zealous genocidal robots. But wait Cocoon was super isolated from the entire universe, right? So how you know they had the same deal going on in this Eos?"

Before Lighting could go over her friend, the hotheaded spear user Fang chuckled before cutting in with," It's all in the past for us tail boy. Eos was just a holy place that was graced by Eltro. Course what counts as blessed by those Fal'Cie means something mighty different for us blokes. Oy that James said this here Eos looked like it was merged with another world called Orience right? I think that planet was mentioned in some of the old texts to!"

Squall crossed his arms before the scar face man uttered." So, while we don't know much, it's safe to assume there will be some sort of mechanical monster ready to pounce sooner or later yes?"

Vincent shrugged as he checked his Cerberus gun was ready to fire."I'd be more surprised if there was not. He did say this was Battle-World yes? That would imply there would be fighting, not cooking or something else."

Aries then shrugged before she gave an uplifting," Ah well, guess its best the pro's do the fighting so that the innocent don't get swept up into it and all that right guys? Well, we knew this would not be easy so just keep a sharp look out everyone. Ezan...guess your eyes will be even more vital then we figured for this so keep them open. Like...is there any nasty creep trying to crash down from the sky to stab us right now?"

Ezan chuckled at how his girlfriend was making light of her own death at the hands of Sephiroth before he flicked his hair out of his right eye." Don't worry, I assumed I would have to keep my guard up during this entire mission and I'll do all that I can to keep my teammates safe. For the moment, there is the massive energy coming from the local star, but no other hostile power levels in the area, as far as I can tell."

Cid checked the scanners again before he and another of Lighting's friends, the afro haired pilot Sazh looked at some results and shrugged." Got some energy readings in the area but they don't seem to be coming our way. See for yourself."

He had the scans show up as a hologram, showing to everyone giant blue crystals jetting out of what seemed like normal enough terrain. Barret saw the crystals and just whistled." If I did not know better that looks like one hell of a giant chunk of Materia. So...some fools waiting to spring a trap on us or something?"

Cloud looked at the readouts carefully before he narrowed his eyes." Maybe, maybe not Barret. But, it's not smart to run in waiting to be ambushed. Even if the stealth functions are still holding, it might be better to land in a safe place and check the surrounding area on foot to get an idea of just what's going on here."

Cid looked around before he shrugged." Guess you guys will be doing the heavy lifting either way so works for me. Alright, get your gear ready gang."

Cid managed to "Park" the Neo-Highwind in an area that gave them decent covering while also giving Cid enough room to take off quickly in case of an ambush. After everyone made sure they had everything Ezan departed with Aries, Squall, Zidane, Cloud, Barret, Vincent, Lighting, King Gaius, and Alvin.

While the group was some of the strongest warriors in the universe, the extent of what Ben told them of their current enemy's power was more than enough to keep them on edge. That edge only increased as they saw armed airships fly around, though not at them.

Cloud saw the more recent members of the Enji look tensely as the airships flew in the direction of the giant blue crystals that were getting larger by the second before he cleared his throat." King Gaius...sorry you got dragged into such a risky situation."

"No need for apologies Captain Strife." The King of the Auj Oule people retorted." I was fully aware of the powers of this Beyonder when I volunteered to assist. But his plot of universal genocide started on my soil, and no matter how meager of a role I may be able to provide, I'll do what I can to right this wrong and protect my people."

Alvin nodded before throwing in a slick," Hey as slim as the odds are if I can bring back something exotic it would be a boon for my business, right? No pain no gain, and if I missed out and this turned bad everyone dies anyway right?"

Zidane chuckled at the former mercenary's spunk before he nodded." Always helps to look on the positive side of things dude! Just um...if we see any really sweat treasure veterans get first dibs ok?"

"Says who Tribal? What you need the extra profits for anyway?"

"Hey just saying anniversary gifts can be expensive!"

Ezan cleared his throat to interject with a stern," There will be no point in planning for the after if your carelessness causes the present to be our doom Zidane. Get serious, I'm sensing hostile energy over the hill. Wither the hostility is for us or someone else remains to be seen, but we will see soon enough."

To his relief Zidane nodded without protest and everyone got ready to draw their weapon as they walked over the hill.

They saw the giant shinning crystal look even brighter, and also saw military like ships flying around the area. Ezan got his sword arm ready to go on an moment's notice as he saw at the bottom of the hill were dozens of armored men dressed in attire that made it extremely likely that they were soldiers.

The fact that all of these soldiers had glowing red eyes did not give the Enji much faith that they were friendly.

But as the warriors of light descended the hill they saw the soldiers did not attack them. The group deduced one reason might be that they were awaiting orders from a superior, as most of the soldiers moved out of the center a possible said superior had his back turned, but turned that back as the Enji approached.

As they closed in they all saw the figure was a middle-aged man with red-violet hair, amber eyes, and strong facial features. He dressed in a long, black jacket that has a white and gray trim, and matching pants. He had a red scarf and a hooded, gray and white mantle. The man wore a black fedora and a winglike accessory on his left arm.

As the man in the fedora saw the Enji he merely formed a grin. While the grin was not hostile, and Ezan could not sense a powerful energy residing in him, something about the man's face made the super elite warrior know it would be foolish to drop his guard.

The fedora clad man saw the Enji tensely walk up before he threw out a shrewd," Hello their! Your free to enjoy the view but I must admit this is not the best time for site seeing as the area is about to become quite hostile. I don't believe I have an appointment with you all, have you come to insist you have one with me?"

The man's face remained friendly, but it was clear that the soldiers around him were ready to act on his veiled threat as more surrounded him. Cloud looked at everyone to nod before he looked at the man and cleared his throat. "To be honest, we don't know where we are. I'm Cloud Strife, Captain of these agents of...SHIELD. We are from a faraway land, but suddenly we ended up a bit away from here and have mostly been trying to regain our bearings and get a grasp of the situation. I know it's an odd story but,"

"Heh...say no more...it's a far more common occurrence then you might think. Yes that explains it, so you're the newest group that got dragged in to this cosmic contest? My sympathizes, but I'm afraid there is little you can do but make the most of it, and that happens to just be what I'm doing right now. Cloud Strife you say? A pleasure to meet you and your comrades I'm sure.

I am Ardyn Izunia, Chancellor of Niflheim. I'm sure you have quite a lot of questions, but I humbly ask that you wait just a moment as I'm about to be too busy to answer them properly. You see, the landscape around this Disc of Cauthess area here is about to become a battle zone. I can't force you but I would be most happy if you would decide to assist us. It's merely logical to fight for the winning side yes?"

Ezan closed his eyes before answering with a cold," Depends on what one defines as logical, and how honorable that request it is."

"Oh, honorable you say? I see...this is going to be fun. No worries warrior, I would not request you anything that would be beneath your pride. No, I merely could use your strength to subdue the monster that is about to awake. As long as you have the ability to make a difference in the might of an Archaean that is."

Aeris giggled before reacting to," Oh is that a special kind of monster or something? Don't worry, we are kind of pros at handling that kind of thing. Is your enemy about to let this Archaean out of its cage to attack or release it with a spell or something?"

Ardyn eyed the former flower girl carefully before he chuckled." Well, pros indeed eh? Guess we will see. We are in fact about to unleash the beast ourselves, to use its rage for our own gain to give us an upper hand in the battles to come.

Yes...behind this crystal lies Titan, one of the Archaeans I speak of. This very moment Prince Noctis Lucis Caelum is attempting to go through the trail to prove he is worthy of forming a contract."

Lighting raised an eyebrow before throwing in," The right to be summoned or something like that? That does sound a lot like what a Fal'Cie would do. I see, so your all serving your prince?"

Ardyn eyed Lighting carefully before he snickered." Not...quite madam. Young Noctis is trying to gain the power to prove he is worthy of being the true heir to the throne of Lucis. Yes, the lad is quite driven to gain the power to avenge his father, and his kingdom.

Of course, Prince Noctis is quite clueless about quite a lot of things but even so, he has potential to be the one, the one that's truly worthy. Of course, only a fool puts all his eggs in one basket, so we are taking, precautions just in case. Ah, I do believe I'm about to get a status update about said precautions."

The ground to the left of Ardyn cracked before suddenly a man popped right out of the ground like a gopher. This man had short spiky black hair, and was wearing a coat with red clouds and an orange swirly style mask obscuring his face. As he casually walked out of the ground Ardyn threw out a wry," Are the precautions made as I said?"

"Tobi's a good boy Lord Ardyn, the mines are set up all around the area to blow up that nasty Titan if he does not behave!"

"Ah...then you done your role well jester. Now...the die has all been cast. Everything revolves around young Noctis being able to live up to his destiny. Oh?"

Everyone saw a blue flash of light in the distance. As the light faded Ezan saw Ardyn have a wild look form on his face." Was that part of the plan? What happens form here?"

All of a sudden the ground started to tremble before Ardyn chuckled darkly." That was part of the plan but I'm afraid it's just the opening act my friend."

As the tremors got worst, and everyone heard a loud angry roar Squall drew his Gun-blade before muttering a sour," I think I been through enough of these experiences to know what comes next."

His comrades nodded as a giant titan of a man emerged from the crystal. Cloud saw the being with a height of 497.04 feet had a crystal stuck in his left eye, and was holding the mountain like, crystal with one hand before he sighed." Same here Squall...but this Titan's a lot bigger than the one I and most of the others used for summons. Let's see, just how much of a punch this Titan has."

The Enji got into their fighting stances but saw the Titan did not even look at them, and just looked down on their feet. Ezan and the rest saw that the Titan was growling something in a language he did not understand. Ben's rival realized he sensed four magic energies near the Archaean and narrowed his eyes to see that there was indeed four young men clad in black attire tensely gazing up at the Titan.

Three of the men seemed to be surrounding one of them, the one they were protecting was a young man standing at 176cm with spiky black hair and blue eyes He wore a black jacket with skull-motif buttons and sequenced details on pockets that was unzipped and the tag on the zipper also had a small skull.

Underneath, he wore a steel gray shirt with skull prints. The man wore black cropped trousers and black buckled boots with red soles. He also had a black motorcycle glovelet on his left hand.

The man to his left was a man of average height and a slender build, whose visage gave off the impression of a youthful punk. He had blue eyes, light freckles and short, unruly blond hair.

He wore two bands on his right arm, black gloves, a black shirt with a white pattern, and a sleeveless black vest with a dark red flannel shirt attached underneath. He had on dark pants with a faint leopard print. He wore black boots with red soles that were lined with white fur.

The man on the right was a tall man with a large build. He wore black leather pants with a small side chain, and an open black shirt with nothing but a pendant underneath. He had a small arm sleeve over his left wrist, and wore black shoes with red soles. He had amber eyes, a long scar over his left eye.

The man behind the others was wearing a purple and black patterned dress shirt with a black suit and black shiny red-soled shoes with sequenced crystals at the tip. He wore shimmery silver driving gloves. He had glasses and had short, dirty blond hair swept up at the front of his hairline and green eyes. The four men were glaring at the Titan with defiance before the tall one growled out a dry," I think he notices you Noct."

The man with glasses added," No need to waste time with the obvious Gladiolus. We have to deal with the matter at hand before it crushes us."

The man in the center closed his eyes, and when he reopened them they were glowing red. Suddenly various weapons of pure blue energy formed to circle around him." No...you guys stay back, this test is mine to beat."

The blond man behind him chuckled anxiously before he gave an thumbs up." If you say so man, I'll be happy to give some killer pictures!"

"Like hell your slacking off for this Prompto! You will give support like the rest of us. Even if you're not officially one of the Kingsguard you are now! Noctis...we can help however we can, but you got this!"

Noctis walked up to the Titan, and in response the giant creature muttered something else, causing the black-haired prince to suddenly grasp his head in pain. As he struggled to retain his composure Noctis hissed out a defiant," What the hell is it that you want? Quit screwing with my head!"

The Titan just roared and swiftly lifted his foot to smash Noctis with it. The black-haired man showed off the extent of his strength by blocking the foot with his Sword of the Wise King blade, and having enough power to push the Titan off of him.

The massive creature widened his eyes at this outcome and snarled, before he winded up his free fist and prepared to smash his much smaller opponent. Noctis saw his friends already out of the fist's path and sighed before he grasped a dagger and threw it high in the air.

This did nothing to stop the Titans fist, but just as it was about to smash into Noctis he vanished in a spark of blue light. An instant later he appeared where the dagger was in midair, right in front of the Titan's eye.

Cloud saw Noctis slash the Titan across his eye, then throw the dagger to the lower right and warp to it in an instant before he raised an eyebrow." I'll admit he impressed me. He's more than a normal fighter, his use of warp magic seems nearly on par with Master Minato's."

Ardyn chuckled before responding with a wry," Ah a judge of fine skill eh Captain Cloud? Yes, this is Prince Noctis's Armiger magic at work. After seeing the power of the Lucian Kings, and knowing that this is not even his full power, will you now all see why we are investing in this power being the key to winning this Battle-World chums? Of course, it remains to be seen if he can manage to realize his full potential but well that's what this is all about yes?"

Before anyone could respond the Titan roared again. As everyone saw Noctis warp around Zidane crept over to Cloud before whispering," So um...should we like, help this warping prince out? The dude's big but nothing most of us can't one shot."

Cloud made sure Ardyn was not listening before he sighed." True enough...but we still don't have a clear idea of the situation, or the extent of what everyone can do. Just...watch everyone carefully, very carefully."

"Acknowledged." Ezan answered flatly." Watching something is still something I can do better than anyone else."

Aries was about to giggle till she saw Ardyn looking at her and faked a sneeze. The Titan suddenly got everyone's attention by suddenly thrusting his head forward to give Noctis a massive head-butt just as he warped to a new location. The black-haired prince managed to block with his sword but still was smashed to the ground.

Ardyn sighed at this sight, and lazy waved his hand. A bunch of Niflheim soldiers moved below, and had crafts with energy cannons move into formation before quickly unleashing a barrage of red energy beams.

The Titan did not even get cut by the projectiles, but the bombardment did cause the massive being to be pushed back and step on the mines that Tobi set. Everyone quickly saw that the man in the orange mask was not lying about his deed as a barrage of explosions erupted underneath the Titan's foot with enough force to cause it to stagger.

Noctis's three friends saw the Titan fall to his knees before Ignis shouted out," Now's a good a time as any! Unleash the Blizzaga you two!"

The other two men nodded before Ezan's group were baffled to see the three take out blue orbs and threw it at unison at the Titan's arm before he could get up. The orbs exploded to unleash a surge of ice magic that was powerful enough to freeze its entire limb.

Noctis saw the Titan yell out in pain before he narrowed his eyes and had his "Longsword of the Dynast King" Great sword form in his hand before yelling out a determined." Now...it's over!"

With a surge of blue energy encircling his body the prince gave a battle cry and slashed at the Titan's frozen arm. His strike was powerful enough to shatter the entire limb. As icy fragments burst across the entire area Noctis shielded his eyes before throwing out a coy," Hey...we all still here?"

"Yup...still here." Gladiolus retorted flatly."

Ignis saw the Titan's eyes dim before he readjusted his glasses." If not a bit battered, but at least are foe is far worst off."

"Does this mean this's is all over?" Prompto added anxiously. Noctis was about to respond when suddenly the Titan gave a roar of wild rage and smashed the ground with its head.

Ezan saw that the colossal Archaean looked like it was about to try and desperately leap up to body slam Noctis and his friends before his gaze turned cold." Enough. Chidori."

In the blink of an eye Ezan used the Flash step skill to warp behind the Titan in less than an instant. Ezan had his Sharingan eyes blaze out before lighting crackled around his right hand, and he used the Sharingan to detect the pressure point in the giant's body and instantly strike it with a lighting enhanced strike.

Ezan's blow hit the Titan in its neck, with enough force to slam the much larger being to the ground. The sliver haired man heard the Titan roar in pain and merely sighed." Submit to your fate with honor beast...no need to look even more pathetic."

Ben's primary rival was so fast that only his fellow Enji realized what he did. Just as Noctis realized the Titan was not going to attack any more Ezan did another flash step to reappeared between Aeris and Squall. Before anyone could say anything, the Titan unleashed yet another deafening roar and then started to glow.

Noctis looked at the larger male in the eyes, before suddenly he saw a vision of a blond-haired women in a white dress talking to the Titan. The blond girl smiled at the Titan before she glowed with light, but the vision ended before she could speak.

Noctis glanced back at the Titan before his eyes widened with shock." Luna...you spoke with her? Is that why?"

Noctis was cut off as the entire body of the Archaean glowed with light, before his entire body dissolved, releasing enough energy to blow the Imperial airships away. The black-haired prince saw the light go into his body, and Ardyn saw it to, and had a gleam in his eye as he did." So, he just might be able to pull it off after all. Good. Now to see just how agreeable he can be."

The red-haired chancellor tipped his hat at the Enji before jumping on the sole airship. As it flew down to Noctis with the Titan gone the massive crystal he was holding in one arm crashed to the ground, causing lava to burst up to the prince's left. Noctis friends all tensed up before Ingis grunted out," Well done Noctis...but it will all be for naught if we don't vacate this area post haste!"

Noctis saw magma erupt in front of him before he cursed." Easier said than done, this entire area looks like it's about to fall apart!"

The four then saw Ardyn descend in front of them on his airship's boarding plank. As the red-haired man saw the other men's shocked expressions he sprouted out a chaotic smirk." Fancy meeting you here! It occurs to me that I never formally introduced myself to you lads last time! Izunia...Ardyn Izuina!"

Ignis stiffened as he heard this before blurting out," Imperial Chancellor Izunia?"

Zidane saw the other three look mortified before he face palmed." Wait...theses dudes seriously did not realize they were being played by an enemy bigwig? How clueless are they?"

Vincent sighed before responding with a deadpanned," It does seem like this Prince has seriously flawed methods to gathering intel."

Cloud nodded before getting his " First Sword" ready." It seems we have a liar on one side, and a naive at best group on the other side. Well, got to start somewhere."

Ardyn just laughed at seeing Noctis tense up before giving a mocking bow." Your correct. I'm at your service, and more importantly, at your aid. I guarantee you safe passage. Though you're always welcome to take your chances down there."

Noctis suddenly got enraged before he pointed his sword at Ardyn." You think I'm going to trust someone who's been lying to me this whole time? Why the hell should I trust anyone involved with burning Insomnia, the city that is my home? Why should I trust anyone that took part in killing my father?"

"Oh Noctis...you're so young...so naive. I won't lie that I had a role in seeing King Regis breath his last and see all of Lucius be subjected. But there are much bigger things to focus on prince.

For one, if you paused your emotional self-righteous rant for a moment you would realize you have so very few choices at all Prince Noctis...even as special as you are surely you must realize you and your three faithful friends are not special enough to elude an entire unit."

As Noctis cringed Cloud looked at his comrades and nodded. The Enji prepared to intervene but before they could a fierce female voice cut in from the right of Noctis." That would be true Chancellor, but the Prince has more than that, he has us!"

An imperial solider was about to prepare to attack Noctis but before he could try an energy blast came from the direction of the voice, and blasted a hole in the masked man. Noctis, Ardyn, and the Enji all saw that the blast came from a woman with shoulder-length brown hair and red eyes who had just jumped out of a rock she was hiding behind.

The women was clad in a uniform that consisted of a black jacket with gold shoulder pads and white-laced cuffs, and a red plaid skirt hemmed with black lace, and had red daggers in her hands.

Ardyn saw the new women glare at her, and also saw twelve other men and women with the same outfits with various weapons run up from different directions before he chuckled." Oh my...so the cream of the crop of the Agito Cadets really are playing as the substitute Kingsguard eh? If you think your being noble, Rem Tokimiya you're just being painfully naive."

Rem flinched as Ardyn casually uttered her name, but just had her expression hardened as her comrades got alongside her and she got into a fighting stance." Squad Zero is more than willing to honor the alliance between the Kingdom of Lucius and the Dominion of Rubrum Chancellor. Apologizes for the delay Prince Noctis, it took us time to get past the squad they had in the area."

"Its fine," Noctis retorted gruffly," I was supposed to overcome Titan by myself anyway. Still...not about to turn down the chance to kill as many Imperials as I can!"

Ardyn just sighed before he closed his eyes." Must we descend to the level of barbarians? Can't you realize your ways are wrong for once and just politely submit?"

One of Rem's comrades, a man with, dark hair and green eyes and twin rapiers in his hands, Machina Kunagiri, pointed one of those rapiers at the red-haired man before snarling out," Screw you! Like hell we will let you look down on us!"

Ardyn just chuckled bitterly before hissing out, "So the dance resumes I see. So be it, know your place the hard way."

Ardyn snapped his hands and a few soldiers prepared to attack Machina from all directions. However, some of his fellow members of Squad Zero showed off their own powers as Ace, the squad-mate with short blond hair and light blue eyes used his unique power to make a deck of playing cards glow with energy before flying into the air and colliding into some of the soldiers with enough force to slice holes through their armor, and the rest of their bodies.

Tobi had moved next to Ardyn, and as the masked man saw Squad Zero use their exotic weapons and magic to rip apart the Imperial Soldiers before he pouted." These guys mean business Master Ardyn! But they have to learn the hard way we mean serious business to! If you guys don't settle down now you're going to be real sorry!"

Tobi then comically took out a giant shuriken out of his back and prepared to throw it only to trip on his feet and fall over. Another member of Squad Zero, the silver hair and violet colored eyed women with a whip blade named Seven to see this and grin." You clowns think you can stop us? Arrogant pricks, the joke's on you!"

Seven, Noctis, Machina and some of the others all prepared to attack Ardyn and Tobi at once. However, a bolt of raw light rained down from the sky to easily blast away all the attacks. As the group looked up a metallic voice uttered," How amusing, from up here you're all the ones that look like jokes."

Everyone saw the attack came from a being clad entirely in white armor. While the man's face was concealed by a white tiger shaped mask, his yellow glowing eyes gave a harsh look. As the man descended Ardyn chuckled once more." Ah...how kind of you to show concern Lord Nimbus...even if it is unwarranted."

Noctis cringed before muttering," The hell, now the Primus l'Cie of the Milites Empire is here to? Did every enemy big shot decide to dog pile us?"

Nimbus glared at Noctis for a few moments, before while still floating in midair he crossed his arms and glanced back at Ardyn." I did not come here for your sake Ardyn. Marshal Cid Aulstyne does not share your desire to toy with threats. Nor does he think that the boy's power is required to complete the Eye of the Moon plan."

Tobi got back up before he chuckled and threw out a lazy," Silly Nimbus...even if we don't absolutely need the prince's super bloodline power to kick off the Infinite Tsukuyomi it would be a lot faster with it, and we need to pull it off as fast as we can before the other world's kick off their plans for us first!"

Ezan raised an eyebrow as he looked at the seemly goofy masked man intently." When he said Tsukuyomi...was he referring to one of the Uchiha spells?"

"Don't jump to conclusions Ezan." Squall threw out cautiously." Don't forget lots of cultures from lots of worlds use the term Tsukuyomi...it could mean anything really. Still...it does seem like these guys have some rather, uncool ideas."

Nimbus eyed Ardyn and Tobi carefully before muttering," Only by not being riled by emotions can we emerge on top of this Battle-World. And only by eliminating all threats can we ensure we can have our wishes granted."

Ardyn sighed before he tipped his fedora." You always were the professional type Nimbus. But types like you, Caius and some of the others can have a bit to of a narrow of focus at times. Sometimes, the biggest threat can be the greatest asset if one knows how to spin things correctly. Ah well...I won't tell such an esteemed warrior the best way to fight, just give a suggestion from a senior."

Before Nimbus could respond Noctis glowered and had his energy swords float around him." I don't need your suggestions! I'm through being a pawn in your games!"

Noctis tried to charge at Ardyn again, but in a moment Nimbus appeared in front of the prince, and had a blade of raw light appeared in front of him. Noctis got cut in the face as he parried the strike, and while Machina and Gladiolus both tried to attack the masked man Nimbus casually had more blades of light appear around him to block their strikes as well before he uttered a dismissive,"The weak are controlled by the strong "highness." "

Nimbus saw Rem and some of the other members of Squad Zero attempt to attack him with magic spells, only to casually blow those spells away with a pillar of light.

He then overpowered Noctis and smashed him into a rock pillar behind him. As Noctis coughed up blood Nimbus suddenly appeared above him." You were raised your entire life to feel special, but now it's time you realize the hard way just where you stand."

The masked man prepared to slice through the prince's arms, only for Cloud to appear behind him. Nimbus was fast enough to swerve around, but even as he blocked Cloud's slash with blades of light the impact still sent him through a pillar.

Ben's former team leader saw Nimbus quickly fly out of the rubble with a calculated look in his eye before he gave a colder look back." I could say the same about you."

The other Enji quickly introduced themselves by taking out dozens of imperial soldiers before they could even react, and as Ardyn saw Cloud unleash his magical aura he chuckled." I think it's fair to say that you don't approve of my methods Captain Cloud?"

"That's an understatement." The blond-haired warrior firmly retorted." We still don't know all that's going on, but me and my teammates have seen enough to know when someone needs to be taken down. And, what you have going on clearly needs to be shut down pronto."

Nimbus sneered as he had magical orbs of light surround him." More barking from fools. The likes of you cannot understand divine will. Thus...you will be cleansed by the wrath of the true elite!"

The man with the title of Primus l'Cie dashed behind Cloud in a burst of speed to try and slice him up, only to be caught off guard to see Ezan suddenly in front of him. The sliver haired warrior saw the masked man's shock and just narrowed his eyes." It disgusts me when imposters bark lies in front of a true super elite. Die...Delta Ray Edge!"

In a flash Ezan's Nu-Epyon katana crackled with purple lighting, and before the Primus I'Cie could even twitch Ezan unleashed a triple triangle slash that left a purple energy mark on his chest.

Just as Nimbus realized what happened blood burst out of him, and the impact of his opponent's blow kicked in, causing him to be blasted near Ardyn hard enough to leave a crater.

The red-haired man heard Nimbus moan before he glanced at Ezan's Sharingan eyes and chucked darkly." Those eyes...you truly are formidable new additions to the game eh? Curious, are you also from that Uchiha cult? No matter...for in the end no matter what you are or what you believe in the fact is I can't let anyone derail my plans."

The wry chancellor snapped his fingers and his airship instantly fired an energy beam in the path of several Enji Knight and Squad Zero members. While Ardyn hoped to at least vaporize some of his opponents, before Ezan could even try and deflect the beam a wall of white energy appeared to defend everyone, and reflect the blast back at the airship.

As Ardyn winced he saw that Aeris was the source of the sudden holy barrier and as he glanced at her she responded with a sorrowful smile."Sorry but you're not going to get your way, no matter how much you want to make your dreams come true I want to protect those that are important to me even more!"

Ardyn was about to respond before a new shrewd male voice chuckled from behind him."Heh...Ardyn buddy I want to see our grand old plan pull through as badly as you do but from the looks of things might just be a good time to call halftime and reorganize are grand plan a tad eh?"

Everyone felt a sudden burst of malice in the air as a new man casually walked out of the shadows. This man was dress with an open shirt beneath his vest that shows his chest, a loose black tie, two belts, and black pants.

His face was covered with a hooded yellow cape with black markings and large rolled-up cuffs along with long black ribbons and bandages across his arms.

As this hooded man walked up to him Ardyn just sighed."Really now your here to Hazama? I'm starting to get peeved with all the people popping in as Noct here. I thought you were working on your end of the plan?"

Ezan, Cloud and the others got alarmed at the mentioning of the new arrival's name, but Hazama just snickered before retorting with a wry,"Well that was the plan, but then I sensed all the powerful energies bubbling up around here and my curiously just happened to be peaked. I can already see the big guy in the sky was not joking about making this new round, "Interesting."

Lighting saw how casual Hazama was before she rolled her eyes."Damn it, I had enough with smug men acting like we are all just toys. I just met you all and I'm already sick of your voice!"

Zidane chuckled as he got his daggers ready," I'm with you Light, if theses suckers think they are that much better than us then like always, just got to steal the victory under their feet!"

The two Enji charged at the new enemy, but in response Hazama just chuckled." Hate me already eh? They do say I leave that kind of first impression toots! But settle down and know your place, the grownups have stuff to do! Ouroboros! Let me hear you cry! Hyehahaha! Serpent's… Cursed Sting!"

With the flick of his wrist Hazama released two snake like chains of green energy from his wrists that quickly burst at Zidane and Lighting. The two-hero's tried to slash at the chains, but they swerved around to evade the strikes before grasping their wrists.

Just as Lighting realized what was going on Hazama dashed at her and suddenly had butterfly style knives slide out of his wrists before he hissed out." That's a rather scary face toots! How about I carve some manners into yah? Make sure you do your part, and scream for me! Time to slice and di...whoa!"

The hooded man suddenly had his energy take the shape of a demonic snake, but before it could bite Lighting he sensed a surge of killer intent and suddenly leaned his head back, and dodged the slice Ezan intended to make a decapitation. As Ezan saw his target dodge, the man's hood fell back to reveal he had spiked green hair and demonic yellow eyes.

Hazama saw the look the sliver haired man was giving him and flashed a brutal grin before he swiftly kicked Ezan in the hand as a knife came out of his foot.

Hazama saw Ezan easily block the strike, and then saw Cloud, Squall, and the others coming for him and the others before he chuckled." I see you got some killer spunk in yah kid! That's good, this will be fun! But I don't do things half-cocked, so we are going to settle this later! Time to give us some breathing room eh Nine?"

Ben's rival prepared to try and finish Hazama, when he saw the ground around him shimmer with dark energy and quickly flash stepped out of the way as a pillar of dark energy erupted.

Cloud and the others also found themselves evading likewise attacks, and everyone saw a being walk up between Ardyn and Tobi that was dressed in a purple cloak with a high collar with red blood zig-zag almost like zipper, and two long, white scarves ending in red rags that resemble flames. The new arrival also had a large, pointed hat that concealed the face.

The hatted being raised its hand before glowing with purple energy, causing Hazama to chuckle."Don't worry kiddies, the show will resume soon enough. Till then feel free to eat yourself up with how painful it's going to be when we resume this! Don't worry, I promise I'll surpass your expectations!"

Ardyn saw Noctis look bitter before he grinned." I suppose it would indeed be wise to rethink things. Do try and find a way to be a true worthy heir by then Noctis. That's the only way this will be able to come to any worthwhile conclusion."

Ezan saw Nimbus, and everyone else in his sight start to glow before he grasped his hand tightly." Don't think you can just slip away scum."

The Enji dashed at Ardyn to try and stab him in the heart before he could warp away., but was shocked to see Tobi suddenly get in the way of his strike. While his blade went right through the man, Tobi did not react with pain and all, and just chuckled as Ezan looked at him." Wow mister you have one scary look! You look as scary as Sasuke did...but if you're as single minded as him, you're going to fall as big as he did!"

"Tsc...I don't know who your referring to, but I assure you clown, I'm far more professional."

Ezan swiftly tried to slice the man's head off only to find his target suddenly became transparent and his blade phased through his body like he was a ghost. As he was caught off guard as Tobi leaned forward, and revealed that the eye in the hole of his mask was a Sharingan before Tobi uttered in a much colder, older sounding voice," We will see the truth soon enough, and see how pure of a Uchiha you are you really are, boy."

As Ezan wondered what to make for his foe's sudden shift in behavior he attempted to just finish him off before his arm gave a pained twitch to cause him to slow his swing.

This was just enough time for Tobi's Sharingan eye to rippled, and sheets of paper with markings flied out like it was a vortex. The sliver haired man saw the papers had gun powder on all of them and quickly dashed back as the paper bombs exploded.

While Ezan was unhurt, the sudden attack was enough for the one called Nine to finish her warp spell, and in the flash Ardyn, Tobi, Nimbus, and Hazama and the spellcaster all vanished in a flash of light.

Noctis sighed as he caught his breath."Did not think they would leave after all that fuss, guess for all the dramatics they had more bark than bite."

Lighting sighed as she put her sword away." Don't be naive if you want to survive! They were in a hurry if they left all their men behind, but they were not scared, just annoyed."

Noctis glanced at all the destroyed Imperial soldiers and just rolled his eyes." The soldiers are all Magitek troopers these days. Having his Mt's nearly all be damn robots makes it even easier to not give a damn about casualties. Anyway...who the hell are all of you? I'd say thanks for helping unless this is all just part of a trap."

"That' how you say thanks every time someone saves your life you spoiled brat?" Lighting sharply threw back. Rem saw Noctis glare at the pink haired women before she giggled tensely and got up between the two." Please excuse him, Prince Noctis has just went through a lot recently so he's not very trusting at the moment. Still, I know we have to be careful but I think we can trust these guys for now your highness, if they are on the same team as Nimbus they are putting on a very long act."

Aeris saw Noctis, his pals and some of the members of Squad Zero still look cautious before she gave out a friendly smile." I promise you all its no act. I can't stand guys like give off bad vibes like that chancellor and his pals. We are the kind of guys and gals that like helping others that are in trouble. I know you're in a tense situation, but I hope you can trust us."

Noctis saw how sincere the flower girl looked before his tension started to ease. He then took a deep breath before he nodded." Well, I suppose I have been ruder then I should have been. Fine...if you're not an enemy then just why are you here?"

Cloud sighed before throwing out a steady," To be honest, we don't know why we are here for, just that the Beyonder wants us to fight for his game. Seems like this Battle-World had already started when we arrived, so we were trying to find answers when we ran into your "meeting" with the Titan. "

"It's ok, that's more or less what happened to us when we first got sent here." Rem threw in heartily." We were anxious to suddenly finding our world had merged with others to be part of some grand game by a god whose power surpassed even that of the l'Cie, of even the celestial ones Gaia and Diva, even above the likes of Eltro and Lindzei.

We encountered Prince Noctis and his friends by chance, and were not sure what to make of each other till his mentor Cor Leonis, the man with the title of , and members of our senior command like Dr. Arecia Al-Rashia and Lord Zhuyu agreed that it would be best if we worked together."

Ezan looked at everyone carefully before he threw in a restrained," That's all very good but just what are all of you trying to do? Time is short, and every moment we don't understand the situation clearly gives our enemies more time for them to win."

Noctis sighed before throwing out a wary," Your as " fun" as Cor dude. Honestly even I don't know the full picture, only Cor and some of the others seem to have a clear idea. We were supposed to meet up with him in the new hide out but, the plan was to hijack an Imperial ship after things were done with Titan. But, now that plan's gone to hell. Damn it, by the time we get the drop on another ship it might be too late!"

Squall sighed before he eyed Noctis intently." We might have a solution to that. We happened to land here along with our airship. Its most likely one of the fastest ones you seen. And its pilot, Cid Highwind is good at his job, good enough to be able to get you where you need to."

Ignis re-positioned his glasses before responding with a cautious,"You know someone named Cid to? But, named Highwind? Tsc...this is too good to be true. And even if it's not a trap, if your airship is this unique it will stand out like a sore thumb and just make us a sour thumb for the enemy. It might be slower Noct...but it would be best if we stuck to the ground."

Zidane saw all the tense faces and just laughed before throwing out a boastful," Chill guys, it will be fine! Our ship has some tricks and all of us can handle ourselves rather nicely. No matter who comes unless it's the big bad Beyonder himself I'd say odds are mighty good Ezan can handle it.

I know the man's not the best at warm welcomes but he seriously is one of the strongest warriors there is. It's a pain but that Uchiha bloodline has a killer reputation for a reason. Oh right, sorry guess you don't know about that but trust me its a hardcore legend."

Zidane winced as he saw Noctis and most of Squad Zero all tense up before Prompto gulped and walked back. "Wait...your saying this sliver haired dude is a Uchiha?"

Galdious then growled before he took out his sword again." Damn it, I knew this was a set up! Thought we were that stupid huh?"

Zidane saw Ezan go for his sword before he groaned."Hey man you want to calm down before you do something stupid! Like I just said Ezan might not look like it but he's as good as they get! Whatever you think you know is wrong."

Ignis eyed Ezan carefully as he walked back." I'm all for things meaning different things to different cultures. But where we are from the word Uchiha means powerful nearly inhumanly assassins that seem to have many powers tied to their Sharingan eyes.

They are in lead with our enemies, and the only thing about them is that they seem to have a cult like devotion to the will of their leader, the so called strongest warrior Madara Uchiha.

Since you just referred to you comrade as the strongest warrior, forgive us for jumping to conclusions but I can hope you can see where we would get the idea."

Ezan glanced at Noctis again before closing his eyes." Madara Uchiha you say? That's not my name, but I heard of him. From what I heard he was indeed a legendary warrior, and a ruthless one as well. I did not think his legend would spread this far, but nothing can be assumed in this, chaotic dimension. That being said...even if we are related by blood or genes I am not him, I'm an elite warrior, but one with honor."

Aeris nodded as she put her arm on her boyfriend's shoulder." I don't know what these other Uchiha have done but I promise Ezan is not like them. Please believe me, despite his aloofness Ezan 's passion for justice is as strong as it gets."

Noctis saw Ezan winced but not object to his girlfriend's defense before he sighed." Well...having more kickass allies would be nice. Damn it, hate to admit it but we can't afford to turn down your help, just don't make me regret it. Alright, I'll show you the hideout in Hammerhead if you show me your secret ship."

Cloud nodded before looking in the direction that he and the others all exited the Neo-Highwind." Sounds fair. Since everyone's in a hurry let's get moving."

The group started to follow the spike haired Enji Captain till Prompto suddenly winced." Hey wait a second, we are not all set here! The Regalia...it must have been buried during the fighting! We got to find it, or we lost are ride! Oh man all my stuff is in there!"

Barret rolled his eyes before growling out," You serious? Leave the car fool, sounds like its more trouble than its worth!"

Noctis grimaced before lashing back with a defensive," Maybe that's all it is to outsiders like you but I don't know how long this deal is going to last. Besides it's not just a car, it's my father's gift. It's like a member of my party, and I'd give up on it as quickly as I would give up on my friend!"

Squall sighed before muttering," I suppose if our ship can hold Gundam's it can hold a car. Just be quick about it."

The Enji assisted Noctis and the others in making sure digging up the black, four-seat convertible before everyone soon docked the Neo-Highwind with the Regalia in tow. Noctis, his friends and the Squad Zero members had airships of their own where they were from but were impressed with the how advanced the ship's systems were. After telling Cid where to go the groups spent the time hearing the adventures Cloud, Lighting, and some of the others went through.

Just as Aries explained how she came back from the dead they arrived at the makeshift hide out Noctis's allies were using, and it was not what most expected as Hammerhead ended up being a gas station.

As the airship landed Ben's comrades were on guard, but only saw an blond women in skimpy yellow attire stroll up.

Upon a closer look the group saw she was a slender woman with short, curly blond hair and olive green eyes. She wore a red cap with yellow outlines and a logo with the words "HAMMER HEAD" and "FULL SERVICE STATION" and black goggles which she hanged around her neck.

She wore a cropped yellow jacket that revealed her stomach zipped a few inches under her breasts, and an orange bikini top with deep décolletage. She wore jeans shorts with a brown belt loosely hanging around her hips, thigh-high black stockings, white high boots on heels, and brown gloves.

The women saw Noctis and gave a wide welcoming smile." Well I'll be Noctis, I know you were looking to snag a fancy ship from the Imperials but this baby's way fancier then I was expecting."

Cid had gotten out with the rest because his lunch was destroyed when the ship was sent flying and as he saw the girl he sighed." This bird's on a rental to your prince girl. I don't know what show or stunt your selling, but we don't have time for it so if you could kindly take us to your boss we have business to attend to."

The girl's face quickly hardened before she spat out," My old man is still here but I'm the boss of this here place old timer! I'm Cindy, Cindy Aurum! I'm the chief engineer of this here joint! I'm just as good with machines as my grandpa, Cid Sophiar!"

Cid nearly tripped as he heard Cindy introduced herself." Wait, Cindy, and Cid? Damn it, I was glad to hear there was another good Cid after hearing another poser was making a heap of trouble using the Cid name! But damn...this feels wrong, it's like looking in a mirror or something, one of those mirrors of possibilities."

Zidane gave Cindy a good look and chuckled." They did say this place was full of possibilities eh Cid? Well, I do hope if you have a kid she shapes up as nice as her. Cindy, right? I was not sure of this place at first but I do say I approve of the fashion sense around here!"

Cid saw the look Zidane was giving Cindy and smacked him over the head." Watch it monkey boy, that's no way to look at a lady!"

"Ow chill out Cid it's not like she's your kid!"

"And she's not your wife either Zidane! Or should I ask the misses if something's changed that I did not know about? A Cid stands up for another Cid as long as he's not a prick! If I stood up for Mid I'll do it for another Cid's kid to!"

Zidane saw Garnet getting out of the Neo-Highwind and cringed." Cool it Cid! You know she understands that I'm a man who respects women right? Just...whatever let's do what we came here to do."

"And just what do you think your here to do mister?" Cindy said warily." We don't turn down anyone's business, but only if it's the business we provide!"

"Its fine Cindy, they are with us." Noctis threw out wearily." They are not from around here but we have a few things in common so I figured it would be good to have them meet Cor so we could regroup."

"Are you sure this is a good move Noctis? They might seem to be helpful, but if this is a trap we will lose everything!"

Everyone saw that the objection came from a male voice that had walked out of the garage. This man had shoulder-length brown hair and blue eyes. He wore a black V-neck top with tribal patterns and a print of angel wings on the back, along with a simple pendant. He had a leather bracer on his left arm, a ring on his right hand, and wraps his right arm with cord.

He had a large blue-siwal style trousers with decorated hems, and low-cut sandal-like leather boots. A green pouch and hunter's knife were attached to his belt in the back, which was adorned with small lavender ties made of cloth.

Noctis saw the wary look this man had before he sighed." I know they don't look like locals to either of us Noel, but they seem on the level."

The man named Noel looked at the new faces intently, before he saw Lighting and looked shocked. He gazed at her long enough for the pink haired women to tense up before he suddenly looked conflicted." Who…who are you? Are…you a Valkyrie?"

Lighting raised an eyebrow as she slowly went for her weapon?" Do I look like a holy woman to you kid? Even if I do look like someone like that form where you're from, the answer is that I'm not so don't get all weird on me."

Noel grimaced before he looked down." Sorry about that…you remind me of what the Valkyries of Eltro were said to have looked like, the ones that gave Yeul hope. Well, Battle-World was said to have people from all era's and worlds, so it seemed possible. Well, I don't care who you really are as long as you can help us."

Ezan sighed before he looked around."That depends just on what help you require. You been vague so far on just what you're after. I gather you need help taking down your enemies like that chancellor and his cohorts. But if that's the case just point us in the right direction and we can be done with this."

Before Noel, Noctis, or the others could respond an older voice cut in with a wary," It's not as simple as that. Its more than just beating a few enemies, we also need to win in a way that will win the favor of the gods or all of this will be for nothing."

Everyone saw a new man walk out of the gas station's door. He was a middle-aged man with short, brown hair. He had light blue eyes and wears a black, collared jacket with skull-shaped buttons and wore a black, skull-print shirt, black trousers, and black boots with red soles.

Cloud saw with a glance that Noctis and everyone else had a look of respect before he gave the man a polite nod." Would I be correct to assume you're the leader of this current group?"

"More like the chief tactician." The man answered plainly." I'm Cor Leonis…former Commander of the Lucius Crownsguard. Alas…since there is no acting king, I'm merely doing what I can to support the royalty and what remains of the people of Insomnia. You have my thanks since I wager you're the reason Noctis survived Titan's trial. Noctis, even with Squad Zero providing back up you were far to reckless."

"I did all I could Cor, we have to take some risks if we are ever going to win this! I prepared as much as I could!"

Vincent cleared his throat before throwing a detached," You say that, yet from what we saw you let a major enemy put you at his mercy. How prepared can you be if you had no idea who the chancellor of the enemy state is? You are a prince, right? Your elite guard dropped the ball to say the least."

Gaius eyed the prince's friends before looking at them carefully," I'll admit that not everyone can be as competent as the Chimeriad were at being elite jobs but you do seem to be failing at the basic, qualifications."

Alvin snickered at Gaius's remark before quipping back a dry," Piff…if they were so elite how they lose to novices like Jude eh?"

As Gaius gave Alvin a frosty glare Ignis stiffened before he cleared his throat." To be honest, Gladiolus was trained to be a warrior but I concede my specialty was in other areas. And Prompto here was, is a friend from school with no real training. We all got are magical powers from Noctis, are power is bound to the Lucius royal power. To Noctis's credit, this Ardyn seldom showed his face in public. I admit, Noctis's focuses were not always on military and political affairs."

"Oh…were you one that was trained from an early age to be an elite warrior?" Ezan threw out curiously." I could relate to that, I guess I could understand why they would not need other warriors with you, before things escalated at least."

Gladiolus chuckled before throwing out a gruff," Nah…Noctis is no combat ace I could kick his ass without breaking a sweat. Hell…he's come a long way but I still can."

Cor saw the Enji looking skeptical of Noctis before he sighed." The late King Regis may have given Noctis a life that some would dub as lax, but that's because he knew that Noctis should be able to have enjoyed life while he could, because it was his destiny to be the King of Light, a person chosen by the Crystal to save the world from darkness. I'll explain more, but not here, just in case imperial forces are watching."

Zidane looked around and realized it was almost night time before he raised an eyebrow." Sounds like a good plan, almost too dark to read out here. Damn…guess this Battle-World has a turbo day and night time table or something?"

Cor grimaced before his expression hardened." That's not part of this Battle-World, it's the effects of the Starscourge plague. It's also another reason we must head inside, daemons come out at night. I have a feeling you're all the type that are strong enough to be able to handle them but still, it would be rather noisy. And so if you're ready this way."

Ezan looked Cor in the eye and saw his gaze was sincere before they nodded to the others. They followed Cor into the garage, and when Cor saw everyone was inside and things seemed secure he rotated what seemed to be a normal wrench to the right in a precise motion, causing the entire section of the table to split open and reveal a staircase.

After a minute the group arrived in a large computer room where many men and women with uniforms like Squad Zero were going over things. In the middle the man that looked like the commander of the group. This man was in his mid-twenties with gray-blue hair and blue eyes.

He wore Dominion of Rubrum military gear, a long dark coat with golden outlines fastened with numerous red belts, a long cape, and a mask that covers the lower portion of his face.

The man saw the Enji and nodded," So you're the ones that assisted Squad Zero? I'm Kurasame Susaya, commanding officer of Class Zero."

Barret looked around before he grimaced." I'm sure you're on the level man but seriously, how many guys we have to say hello to before someone tells us what the hell is going on?"

"I'm fully aware we don't have time to waste." Cor uttered," But I figured since Kurasame knows the most from his world then we could give you a decisive debriefing about the situation. Alright, let's begin. First off, just what do you know so far about Battle-World?"

Cloud looked at his comrades before crossing his arms." More or less just that some god like being called the Beyonder warped us here. He wants us to fight like this is some giant arena. However, from the looks of it your acting like civilizes are part of this. Is, Battle-World taking place on your world?"

"Well…part of it at least." Cor answered gravely." We were suddenly transported to this make shift place and heard this Rabum Alal, or Beyonder as you announce that we were now taking part of this Battle-World. He said that citizens were part of the game to in his eyes make it more" Authentic."

The gist of it is that whoever emerges with the most Magatsuhi, which seems to be known as "Spirit of Calamity" or the energy of the soul. It's like a game, whoever emerges with the most of it will be the winner, will be the champion .

As the month unfolded we quickly realized are world was now fused with chunks of another world, one called Orience. However, before you ask we have been at war before we were part of Battle-World, now the situation is just far more complex.

As you might have guessed, before the Battle World, we from the Kingdom of Lucius, from the planet of Eos, were at war with the militaristic nation of Niflheim.

You seem to have already met Ardyn, but Niflheim is officially lead by Iedolas Aldercapt and as far as we are aware he was also transported to Battle-World. I concede…the war was not going well for us.

Noctis was looking for the treasures of the old Kings to give us the power to oppose the empire. It's been a situation complicated by being drawn into Battle-World, but as you seen, even today we have been making progress."

Cloud eyed Noctis carefully before he looked at Cor again."So, these weapons are powerful enough to change the course of the war in your favor?"

"It has to be." Noctis shouted out passionately,"My father and so many others did not die for nothing! I mean, they were supposed to be the most powerful thing in Eos. But…I don't know what that means to other worlds. I mean, the armies from the other worlds seem to see it as a threat to so that means it's something that they fear as well."

Cor glanced at Squad Zero before he nodded." We quickly learned that are world was bound to others, and found that we had at least a few things in common with some of them.

We and those in power from the world of Orience reached an understanding that it would be mutually benefitable to help each other as much as we could. I suppose I should say the Dominion of Rubrum since our allies also have vicious enemies breathing down their neck."

Kurasame nodded before walking pass Cor." I'll take over for now. Rubrum has been fighting the Milites Empire, the Kingdom of Concordia and the Lorican Alliance for as long as our nations have been founded. The nations have warred among one another since time immemorial.

The nations coexisted peacefully for a time under the Pax Codex until Cid Aulstyne, Imperial Marshal of the Militesi Empire, broke the peace treaty and staged an invasion using advanced military technology developed with the power of the White Tiger Crystal."

Zidane eyed the masked man carefully before blurting out," Wait, Tiger Crystal? So there is a giant magical crystal involved? Sorry to cut in dude but my world had a powerful crystal as well.

Same goes for a lot of my friends like Cecil, Luneth, and Bartz had nations that depended a lot of powerful magic rocks to if you get my drift. So, the bad guys are greedy gem collectors eh?"

Cor eyed Zidane carefully before he nodded." We were wondering what would cause greedy and self-absorbed individuals like Cid Aulstyne and Iedolas Aldercapt to form an alliance. It may partly be out of a need to survive but, we think it's partly a religious factor as well, with the crystal as an anchor to this alliance.

I see crystals are objects of importance to some of you, but in both Eos and Orience are entire culture is about them, and the power they give and both of the conflicts are nations are going through were caused because of them.

For us, Ledolas lusted Lucis's crystal so strongly that he declared a long war with both it, and the nation of Tenebrae to take it, and sadly he succeeded when he bombarded Insomnia during that sham of a peace treaty. Since the Emperor saw it as a power that of light and is a source of unmatched magical power, the only thing worth more than a crystal, is more of them."

Kurasame looked at his sword before looking at Class Zero." In my world each of the nations had a great crystal. The Vermilion Bird Crystal is kept by the Dominion of Rubrum, and it bestows my nation the Power of Magic, allowing the people of Rubrum to use spells and powers that bend nature's phenomena to their will.

Akademeia, otherwise known as the Magic Academy Peristylium Suzaku that is my nation's capital refines the use of magic through academics and training of individuals skilled or potent in magic use. Class Zero, are the elite, and are our nation's champions.

The White Tiger Crystal is kept by Milites Empire. It bestows the Power of Weapons, allowing its citizens to interact with it freely through crafting arsenals and technology using its energy via C-Engines. The White Peristylium researches the Crystal's properties, having derived magitek armor and all sorts of innovations for its use.

The Azure Dragon Crystal is kept by the Kingdom of Concordia. The Crystal bestows the Power of the Dragon, allowing its people to communicate and interact with monsters peacefully. The dragons that inhabit the kingdom are said to be a manifestation of the Crystal, and those who can speak with dragons thus are in-tune with its Will.

The Black Tortoise Crystal is kept by the Lorican Alliance. It bestows the Power of the Shield, allowing its people to draw on its power to grant them strength and robustness profoundly greater than that of other realms.

There were rumored to be other crystals to have existed in the past, and I think both of our enemies think that if they can acquire every crystal it will give them power on par with a god.

It's has some traction, in Orience there exists a legend of Agito, a messiah prophesied in ancient mythology to appear at the time of Tempus Finis, an apocalyptic calamity.

The legend of the Agito is written in the Nameless Tome that speaks of sixteen "constellations" and posits the Sixteen will arrive in the world at a certain moment in human form to complete their "focus" to prevent Finis and "open the gateway." "

Cor nodded before adding,"Our world has a few fables of our own. That Starscourge I mentioned before is a malady that transforms people into daemons and threatens to shroud the world in an eternal darkness.

The Crystal and the Ring of the Lucii were delivered to the king of Lucis by the Astrals before they entered a deep sleep. The king was ordered to protect the Crystal, and the Starscourge subsided by his hand, and to complete his task, or "Focus", would bring great prosperity."

Lighting could not keep it in anymore as she looked from Cor, to Rem, to Noctis and threw out a wary,"And did the beings that gave you this Focus happen to be deities called the Fal'Cie? I already heard of some of you see yourselves as l'Cie. "

Rem saw how tense Lighting was and gulped."Well, we are all l'Cie. All of Class Zero were once just normal humans, but after being chosen by a Crystal we became immortal and forgo their humanity in exchange for wielding unimaginable power at the Crystal's behest."

Ignis eyed Lighting carefully as he saw her get angry before adding,"Centuries ago those chosen by the crystal were called I'Cie as well, those chosen by the gods of Eos, the Astrals. You talk like you have in-depth incite in this matter miss."

"That's because I do kid." Lighting answered bitterly." And its because I do that even if I don't know much about your planet's history I can tell in some way or another your just getting strung along for a grand con. I was a pawn of the Fal'Cie, and they wanted me and others to destroy the entire world. In my world the Fal'Cie created the floating world of Cocoon.

It was made to be a floating paradise, but in reality it was the only place safe in the world for humans because its true purpose was a fancy cage to groom the entire human race to be sacrificed.

I went through hell to find out from the head tool Barthandelus that the Fal'Cie wanted us to kill all humans just to open the gate to some dimensional doorway so they could be reunited with their Maker, Eltro. Just wanted to point out that some of the stuff like opening the doorway sounds a hell of a lot like what I went through."

Kurasame saw some of the Squad Zero members look disturbed before he closed his eyes." I have no idea what you went through but, I can't believe that's the true end of our tasks. After all, Cid and the others would go through so much just for something like that."

Ezan's eyes hardened before he added a firm," It would be wise to not ever underestimate the lengths godly beings will plot to see their ambitions through. In the battle I heard some of our enemies talk about an Eye of the Moon plan. Do any of you know what it means? Is this linked to any of your world's lore?"

Cor looked troubled as he turned around." We heard some talks of it but at the moment we don't have a firm idea on what it means either. There have been other worlds that have been merged with our two as well, the Noel man you met above is from one of them. I'm sure you seen some of the other enemy figures in the last battle. They clearly have ideas of their own. We don't know what they are planning but it's clear they have to be stopped."

"Fair enough." Cloud answered firmly." Do you guys have a firm plan to defeat your enemies that goes beyond blind faith?"

"You must think little of us," Cor answered dryly," Though I guess Noctis's actions did not give the best impression. But we do indeed have a plan, and it involves freeing Noctis's fiancé from the enemy. She is Lunafreya Nox Fleuret, and is also the Oracle. In Eos, Oracles are charged with maintaining the stability of Eos by cleansing the world and communing with the Astrals.

They speak a unique language only understood by those touched by them, hence why the Oracles are so valuable. Oracles inherit their abilities through their family bloodline and Luna has been the youngest one in her family's history. She was believed dead during the invasion but the truth is many of the Kingsglave gave their lives so she could escape.

With the help of her personal bodyguard Gentiana she has been able to move in hiding, and contact the Astrals so that Noctis can acquire their power. When we last heard from her she was making her way to the city of Altissia to awaken the Astral Levathan.

However, that place is one of the last known Astrals so the enemy has it highly secure. In fact, we have found out that she was captured, by her own brother Ravus Nox Fleuret, a man who gladly became an agent for Ardyn because he hated King Reglius for failing to protect his home, and his parents.

We had word that they were going to force Luna to perform some ritual in Altissa to forcefully bind Leviathan to the Empire's. We feared we did not have the means to stop it, but you all seem to have changed that situation, if you're willing to assist us. I won't lie, the area will be highly defended by the most powerful warriors they have."

Zidane chuckled before he leaned back." Oh…want a ride on our ship to make it on time or something? Heh…well it just happens that rescuing Princesses and other damsels in distress is something we are mighty damn good at. Besides, I'm sure you been looking for a good fight for a while now eh Ezan?"

The sliver haired warrior looked at his teammate before he closed his eyes." I do indeed want to make sure my skills have not degraded in live combat after so long. Understood, we will complete the mission objective without hesitation. After all, what we hold dear is at risk as well."

Cor saw the rest of the Enji nod without any reluctance before he grinned." You have my thanks. We have a few agents on the ground, a man from another world who shares are values, an elite ninja named Kakashi Hatake.

I was told one of you has the Sharingan, well Kakashi has one of his own, and has mastered it enough to have been called the" Copy Ninja". Are you from his world?"

Ezan raised an eyebrow at hearing this information before responding with a collected," I have not. Never the less I would be eager to meet this man. I heard some of your enemies have Sharingan of their own. I'm curious to encounter these hostiles to quell the idea that all who use the Sharingan are the agents of evil."

"Kakashi was not one of the Uchiha but got a Sharingan from an former comrades, but I seen enough to known that one's character is not defined by their bloodline. Alright, to pull this off we can't waste a second. I'll contact Kakashi now and hopefully we will be able to leave by the hour."

Noctis saw the Enji nod before he grasped his fist tightly." Luna…even if it's been years since we seen each other, your still one of the most important people in my life. I could not do anything to save my father, but I will save you! I'll prove me being the chosen king is not a fluke."

Ezan looked unimpressed as his gaze intensified." If you're really resolved to save the one you love you will have to try much harder then what I saw earlier. Even that clown of a savior, as graceless as he is, put more effort into proving he could live up to what was expected of him.

And he had far more of a cliff to climb then you did, after all he had me as a rival. Even if your enemies are on the same level, the other enemies won't be, and won't show any mercy.

The truth is I remembered the green haired man. Are comrade fought him earlier in our own war. From the report Doug said the man that was passing himself off as Hazama, a Lylat intelligence officer was really an elite demon that was one of the" Emperor's Hands", the mocking demon Yūki Terumi."

The sliver haired man's fellow Enji expressed various forms of shock before Zidane muttered," That's right I remember Doug told me how he swiped a rad fedora from a guy who sounded like that when he was doing his thing on Planet Venom? Wait if this guy is already dead then how is he, wait, never mind forgot where we were. Still if Doug could down him one on one then taking him down again should be a piece of cake right?"

"It's not even a question that I can eradicate any enemy Fitter defeated without much difficulty Zidane." Ezan answered flatly." But he seems like a crafty demon and we don't know how much he has set up already. All I'm saying is that we must proceed with caution.

No matter how much of an emotional investment you have, if your clouded by emotion you won't help anyone, and you will just be a liability."

Aries saw how angry Noctis and his loyal trio were getting before she saw Zidane face palm and just giggled." Oh, don't take him to seriously Prince Noctis. In his own way, he just wants to make sure you don't make a mistake that will make you suffer. Trust me, we all know what it's like to have everything you care for on the line."

Noctis grimaced before he calmed down." I may not have the skills some of you have but, I do care about getting revenge for my father."

Gaius narrowed his eyes before adding a stern," Sorry but that's not good enough, not if you truly intend to be a King yourself Noctis. Back when I was Erston Outway, the son of the patriarch of the small Outway Tribe, strife between tribes was common, and the Outway Tribe was under the control of the Long Dau Tribe, one of the larger tribes close to the king of my nation. I had to grow up under what most would say were "Stressful" conditions.

I was disgusted with how Auj Oule was at the time a system of command that gave power to the people born into the influential tribes, not the people who were worthy of running the country. I envisioned a new Auj Oule, one that would be united under a single, strong, and just leader, who would protect the weak rather than sacrifice them.

I had to forgo much to see this vision true and become the Dawn King, I had to hold back on personal vengeance, personal desire, for the greater good. I know you were thrusted into this duty before you were ready for it Noctis Lucis Caelum, but you're not just acting for yourself but for all of the people that depend on you."

Noctis winced before he looked down." Look, I knew I would be king some day, just not today! I had no big plans to reshape the world or something, just to not screw up what my dad did. To be honest I can't even fully take in all I have to do as the King of my people ok? All I know is, how can I be a good King if I can't even protect what is important to me?"

Gaius sighed before he crossed his arms." Well then…guess your people should hope this Luna has the resolve of a queen. Very well, for now your enemies are my enemies, so let's make sure our enemies don't win yes?"

The two royal individuals went with the rest of the Enji and Squad Zero members to plan the attack.

---

The place they were supposed to attack Altissia, the capital of the Accordo region. It was seen by many as one of the most spectacular cities in Eos and was a place surrounded by water, being characterized by waterfalls and canals. It was a place with many and varied locations, such as cafes, ship-bourne market places and parks.

The location that was most important to Ben's friends' new allies at the moment was an women sitting on a chair in a white room. This was the women from Noctis's vision, his fiancé Luna.

Standing in front of her was a young man with an imposing physical build. he had heterochromatic eyes with the right eye being blue and the left eye being purple. The sliver haired man wore a white frock with black lining with a large collar that has a purple trim, and armored boots.

Black downward-pointing sword symbols were on the hem and sleeves of his coat, as well as a large crest with a unicorn of what is the emblem of his nation of Tenebrae. The man was looking at a ring Luna had in her hands before she weakly muttered." I beg of you…please…see the ring to Noctis on my behalf. Already…my flesh has begun to fail me, Ravus."

The man with a metallic right arm grasped said arm tightly before responding with a bitter," No, I cannot accept it. By your hand it must be done. To deliver the ring, and the inspire the king is your calling. You mustn't fail."

Luna looked at her own hands before responding with a weak," But…I lack the strength to go on brother."

Ravus eyed her carefully before he leaned down and put his hands on her's." You must find it sister, I know you have the will. Go to Noctis, show him the strength of his heart. I heard Noctis has new allies, and he will be hear quicker than the Empire expects but you must be swift if you are to reunite. Go, I'll delay them long enough to give you the time you need."

Luna nodded she removed the rug underneath her and went through a secret passage to get out of where she currently was, which happened to be the city's capital, Yurell Plaza.

After enough time passed Ravus declared his sister had escaped. After pretending to search for her he walked out of the palace and saw it was raining, and also saw that Ardyn was waiting for him. The man in the fedora had an umbrella over his head before he grinned at Ravus and put it over the taller man's head." The glorious day has arrived, alas without the guest of honor."

Ardyn saw Ravus grimly nod and turn around before he chuckled darkly." Of course what we really are after is the Hydraean…and we went to such great lengths to prepare for plan B that we even got a plan C! After all, you went to such great lengths to be part of those preparations, you did not miss one briefing."

"Merely my duty." The man with the metal arm retorted. The retort just caused Ardyn to put the umbrella over his head." Ah, but for an outsider to lead the imperial army must be a battle in and of itself."

Ravus prepared to move out before Ardyn suddenly threw in a coy," You spoken to your dear sister? Recently I mean, before her grand escape attempt."

Ravus saw how the chancellor was cutting through any pretense and just took a deep breath." No." Ardyn just chuckled darkly as he looked up at the rain." Ah, that abstained secretary then, standing in the way. Being such a pest while you want to slay the Hydraean. Yes…all for your poor sister's sake. Just remember, I know the price of covenant."

Ravus stiffened before he looked at his sword tightly." Rest assured Lord Ardyn, I have no desire to aid Noctis. It's because of his damn family that I lost everything, it's only fair the favor is returned a thousand fold before he dies."

Luna's brother walked down and as Ardyn saw him walk out Hazama walked up to him from behind. The green haired man was now wearing a fedora and as he walked up to Ardyn he whistled." Damn that dude's not kidding about hating your pet project! He reeks so much with hate I could sense it the moment I arrived in this city!"

Tobi popped out of the water before casually muttering,"That's one hateful prince alright! If he was a Uchiha, why he would have awakened his Sharingan by now! Too bad…he just was not lucky."

"Indeed." Ardyn added wryly." Alas, while the hate is real, his love for his beloved sister overrides that out, vastly crippling his usefulness. Still, this pitiful attempt at treachery has its uses.

We will let her meet up with the Sear, and let the Prince and his new allies think they have the jump on us, till the web is set. Just, keep a good eye on are stubborn heroine if you know what I mean eh jester?"

"Eye eye!" Tobi answered in a goofy tone," I'll watch that girl carefully, till the time is right to make her see the truth. Meanwhile, in case all of these hero suckers want to mess around guess the others will have to keep an eye out eh Shin?"

From the water there was a ripple before a hooded figure raised out of it.
The figure merely let his arm drop out of the water, and reveal that several Sharingan eyes were attached to it before the man named Shin uttered," Yes, any who disgrace the greatness of Madara Uchiha must be found, so that those that defy the will of the strongest warrior pay their proper price!"

This Shin quickly dived back into the water, and as the others departed Ardyn glanced at the airships surrounding the city, and also glanced at the public square before he had a wild look in his eye." You can gather as many friends from as many worlds as you want" Noct". But none of them can overcome the one "true" power. Oh well, guess we will see how painful a lesion this will be."

Ardyn then started singing his world's version of dancing in the rain for the kicks as his plan moved along.

---

But while he figured the Enji were coming he did not realize just how much more advanced the Neo-Highwind was compared to his and the rest of his group's forces that they were able to arrive in Altissia around an hour after they contacted their agents.

Cid was able to evade detection and land in the water outside Altissa, and send everyone in shuttles to land in the outskirts of the city. Noctis, Machina, and Gladiolus lead the Enji and Squad Zero members to an outpost that entered the city.

No enemies appeared to greet them, but as they were about to enter Ezan heard bushes rustling and drew his sword. Everyone prepared to fight, only to see a small black dog running up to them.

Most of the group assumed it was a monster repressing its true form and prepared to blow it away before Noctis got in front of them." Hold it! That's not a monster, its Luna's pet dog Umbra! She's been using him as an envoy between us!"

Aeris saw the dog bark happily at Noctis and as the prince hugged him she looked at the dog in aw." This poor guy's been running all over the world to deliver messages between you two? How adorable! Wow, Red XIII can't even do that. Still, don't you think that's putting the poor guy under a lot of stress? Can't you just call or E-mail each other or something?"

Cloud eyed the dog carefully before adding," I suppose it's a way that's easier to ensure the message can't be overheard, long as it's not captured."

"Don't worry," Noctis threw out pridefully," Umbra is one of the smartest dogs that's ever lived."

Barret just chuckled before throwing out," I have a few pals that would be happy to prove you dead wrong fool! Just hurry up and see what your boy left yah so we live long enough for you to find out!"

Noctis nodded and checked underneath Umbra's collar to find a red notebook. The prince opened it to see the words," Waiting for you in Altissia, meet up with the guide."

Prompto glanced at the note before he saw the black dog carrying it just bark." So um…do we follow Umbra to Luna or meet with someone else?"

"Nah kid, I'm the guide. Well, the guide to the guide if we are being picky."

Everyone looked around before they saw a miniature brown furred pug dog walking up to them. Zidane noticed the dog head a head band on him before he sighed." So what is this like, the guide to the guide or something? We playing a game of dog tag to fine your fiancé Noctis?"

Before the prince could answer the new dog opened his mouth wide and muttered, in English," I'm not the guide kid, I'm the guide to Kakashi. It's just…easier for a dog to move around without getting attention."

Aeris giggled before she pet the new dog." Ah he's adorable to! You did not tell me dogs could talk in this world Noctis!"

Noctis winced but before he could answer the pug threw out," I don't know about this world but it's a thing from where I'm from. Like I said, I'm Pakkun, one of Kakashi's ninken, or Ninja Dogs. They briefed you right? I know this city's cool and all but we don't have time to site see if you want to rescue your betrothed and all kid. C'mon, Kakashi's this way."

Everyone eyed Pakkun curiously, and saw Umbra follow him before they agreed to go with the dog. They went behind a rock formation, and went down the back of a large statue.

Everyone saw the waterway that lead to the main section of the city. Waiting in the shadows of the statue was a man that Ben's comrades hoped was the contact and not an enemy.

The man had spiky silver hair oriented to his left-side, dark grey eyes, and a relaxed, heavy-lidded expression. He was wearing a flak jacket, dark blue pants, and a long-sleeve shirt. He also wore a finger-less gloves with metal plates on the backhand and is seen with a chain necklace underneath.

The masked male was reading a book that said Paradise Makeout, and while he did not turn to the group as they got close to him he casually uttered,"Well, a colorful cast of characters indeed. Ah well, guess they say the same to me. Well, everyone seems to look foreign to everyone else in this place, all that matters are if they are in the right place or not."

Pakkun chuckled before he walked up to the man."Its ok Kakashi, they have the matching scent, so it seems legit."

Kakashi closed his book before he sighed." Your nose is still the best in the world Pakkun, good job. So, you're the new allies of the Prince eh? I'm Kakashi Hatake."

Cloud nodded and walked up to shake his hand." I'm Cloud Strife of the Enji Knights. So you're a ninja of Lucan, or are you from the same place as Squad Zero?"

Kakashi looked remorseful for a moment before he looked at the others." I'm from neither, I'm from a place called the Hidden Leaf. But, my world's not part of this place, at least not this world. I decided I liked these guys the best so I'm giving them a hand."

Ezan eyed the Hidden Leaf ninja carefully before responding with a blunt," So you have some sort of magic trick to get us into the city to find this Luna?"

"The oldest trick in the book you could say." Kakashi answered as he put the book away." And it's having an insider give us a ride in. The fancier stuff will take part once we get inside. Pakkun has the girl's scent so we will be able to track her down. Hope you're ready for a fight, I don't think I been compromised but someone's going to notice sooner or later."

Gladiolus chuckled as he cracked his neck." Don't worry Kakashi, these new guys look like they can handle themselves and know how to kick ass. Hell they seem like they are itching for a fight."

Kakashi glanced at Ezan before the son of Ansem Zeon smirked." I'm no slave to blood lust, but I'm more than ready to handle any complications."

Before anyone could respond a boat could be heard. Kakashi saw everyone tensing up before the ninja chuckled." Ease up, that's the ride. You know him Prince, its Cid. I'll give the single and we will be good to go. We got enough box's to hide you all, just try not and get a cramp."

Kakashi waved before the boat got closer. The vessel quickly docked and moments later an old man got out, Noctis saw the old man with a beard in a red outfit that was like Cindy's. Noctis saw the man grin before he grinned back." Cid…what are you doing all the way out here?"

"Why…bailing your sorry ass your highness. Cid Sophiar everyone, a pleasure I'm sure. Alright, we don't have time for small talk if we want to make Luna's speech so get inside everyone."

"I thought the girl was either captured or on the run what she doing giving a speech?" Lighting threw out cautiously. Cid Sophiar chuckled before looking back at the city." That's true miss, but she's going to give one anyway because she wants people to know the truth. Lord knows this world could use some wisdom these days. Alright, my pass is decades old but with all that's going on they should not be making too much of a fuss about it."

The group quickly boarded the boat and after moving around to make sure no one in the group was squashed to much the boat took off to go to the main part of Altissia.

Ezan and Aeris were some of the ones to remain topside for guard duty, and as the city got closer the last Cetra could not help and look in aw at the watery capital. "I admit I was expecting something a lot more, " fight" like to this Battle-World but so far it's kind of pretty! This city might be one of the top ten cities I seen! Well, it beats old Midgar at least. Oh, if the real one's still around can we go on a date their Ezan?"

The sliver haired warrior sighed at his girlfriend's aw before he glanced at some of the airships flying in the distance before his eyes hardened." If it's still their when we are done, sure it will be my treat. But don't be caught up in sightseeing Aries, we both know by now a pretty exterior can just be a mask for a sinister interior."

"Oh…your sensing some jerk's with swords hiding over their or something?"

"Nothing precise, I think it's fair to say some of the ones we fought before are lurking for a rematch. If they want it, they will get it."

"Eager for round two eh dear? Just, don't get to excited Ezan. I don't know what the official term is for all the people in this Battle-World but no matter who made them they feel real to me."

"Don't fret, despite what Zidane and a few others seem to be thinking I'm not so one tracked that I'm willing to forsake everything else for a chance to have a serious fight again.

Besides, I want answers from the masked one, the one with the Sharingan. Despite my doubts on just how much of this world is real, I want answers about the truth of the Uchiha, about Madara, the so called strongest, before me at least."

Aeris saw Ezan was serious before she put her hand on his." What's wrong Ezan? You been thinking about things even before this crazy mission. You're not really still worried about stuff from your past, are you? I figured it would be clear by now right?"

Ezan chuckled before he put his hand over hears." I would hope there is not another chapter of my past to uncover by now. My thoughts have been trying to find the right path for the future, the best path of a warrior, one that's useful even if it's not fighting.

At first after the war I was mostly focused on surviving my own step father's sabotage. After I recovered, and my Rinnegan awoke, I realized it was more than possible for me to triumph with my rematch with Auro whenever the next Budokai took place.

But then I realize, what would come after that? From what Ansem would tell me, there once was a time that Madara was a comrade. However while there was peace for a time, that peace made him become restless.

Madara was someone who grew up, and lived in war. For as much as he could adapt in battle, peace was something he could not adapt to, or more like he refused to adapt to.

My father and Madara's other comrades like Hashirama Senju tried to help him but he refused, and that's how he ended up trying to be a threat to all of Vana'diel, and while even though Ansem tried to the end to reach out to him, when Madara tried to revive the demon Kaguya Ōtsutsuki he was forced to kill him. He told me that Madara died smiling, saying that it was the only way a warrior could die properly.

I seen and heard about countless other warriors being like this, being too attached to their warrior skills to live any other way. Tsc…from what I heard even Fitter has seemed to shown he can't seem to find any purpose that fulfills him other than fighting. I've been wondering how to avoid that destiny, to not let my warriors pride undo me."

Aeris hugged Ezan as she responded with a warm,"I know you had a lot of time recently but don't over think things sweetly. You proven you're not like this Madara guy.

The very fact that your thinking about things like this just proves you're not like Sephiroth or all the other guys to proud to be try and be more than one thing. Ben and the Enji Masters agreed next year would be a good time for the next galactic tournament, and if there is one good thing your illness gave you over the past years it was that it gave you time to find more hobbies right?"

"Heh, somewhat. Though no matter what I'm not about to change my life's work to knitting. Even without enemies to fight a true warrior can still use his strength for good. I've just been wondering how to help those like me find a place for themselves in a world without war. I've been curious to see if Auro and Lacus can truly put pull off their plan. Even if the angels and Cosmos herself backs it, its highly ambitious.

To bring true reformation, to bring about an era were all people can understand each other and still be unique, it does seem like quite the fantasy. Now I understand why the angels made Ben immortal other than sheer gratitude, it's the only way to possibly pull the plan off. Still, no matter how one looks at it creating a existence without conflict that brings satisfaction does seem like the unsolvable paradox."

"I think they can pull it off as long as they don't lose their way. Even if it seems impossible, meeting that challenge seems worthy for the ultimate warrior right Ezan?"

"Heh…true enough. This is just another thing that I refuse to lose to Auro in. Another way, to prove my strength, even if it's a different kind of warrior. Of course, I'm all too happy to not let my reputation falter and crush any concoction this Beyonder dares to think can surpass me. I seen some of the others, before I revealed my Rinnegan they dared to think that I had gotten weak and that they had surpassed me."

Aries giggled before she kissed Ezan on the cheek." Guess they have to stop slacking off eh dear? Don't try too hard though, I saw you slip up for a second when that creepy masked guy pulled a fast one on you."

"Bah…I admit I was caught off guard that he had his own Sharingan and had some sort of phase power but that won't happen a second time. I'll be all too happy to fully test out the new magic the Rinnegan provides me. We will see soon enough. Alert the others we are about to land. Let's see, just how much nonsense theses Fal'Cie will throw at us for this" Round"."

Aeris nodded before they alerted their others. To their relief Cid's pass held and they were able to land in the watery city and depart without any trouble, though they did have to pause to evade being spotted by soldiers on patrol. Kakashi kept his word and lead everyone to where his dogs picked up Luna's scent.

To their dread they realized they were too late, because as they closed in on Luna's location they realized it was in the middle of a crowd. Noctis saw the masses were all surrounding the Yurell Plaza, and that there was a Trident, tall steel trident that has a wing ornament at the bottom in the middle of a raised platform. Noctis looked at the trident before he gasped." That, that's one of the royal arms, the Trident of the Oracle!"

Everyone glanced at the women walking up to it and saw an women with green eyes and long dark blue hair that was kept up, except for two long strands that frame her face. She had a lean, petite build. The women had a unique diadem headdress with a semi-transparent veil that partially hid her face.

She wore a white halter-top with an opening in the center and a small crystal above her chest. She wore a short wrap-around pleated white and pastel purple skirt with a fur pelt in the back, along with yellow boots similar to moccasins. Her wrists were adorned with numerous bracelets, and she wore armbands on her biceps and beaded necklaces.

As the women walked up to the trident Noel looked shocked before blurting out,"Yeul!?"

Noel saw everyone looking at him before he grimaced." That's Paddra Nsu-Yeul, she's my dear friend! She was the Sear of my Farseer tribe, and one of the few people that were still alive. She can see the future; theses empires must be using her power! I have to save her, I have to save someone!"

Cloud sighed as he looked around." Two dear friends to save for the price of one eh? Well, I can understand what your feeling, but just don't rush into things. Just look, the enemy is preparing to make a move. Looks like a bigwig, is he another part of your enemy Empire Noctis?"

Everyone saw a man surrounded by a group of soldiers walk to the platform. This man was dressed in a pristine officer's uniform of white colors representing the White Tiger Crystal. He wore a officer's white hat, coat and cape, a red scarf, black gloves, trousers and knee-high boots. His face was gaunt and his hair and eyebrows were white.

Rem saw those harsh eyes scan the area before she gasped and kneeled down." More like he is one of our enemies! That's the Cid that's our enemy, Imperial Marshal Cid Aulstyne. I did not think he would be hear, this must be important if he is overseeing this directly!"

"Then that's all the more reason to not let your guard down without a second." Ezan uttered coldly." I can pinpoint it but hostile energy is everywhere. Get ready for a fight everyone."

Ezan saw Noctis get ready to dash before Cid Aulstyne went to the center and activated a portable microphone on his uniform before clearing his throat." We have a special guest for today's ritual, it's my deepest pleasure to announce that Sear Yeul will be joined by Lady Luna. Yes, the infamous oracle has willingly decided to, drop by to add her blessing."

The masses cheered wildly before Luna calmly walked out of the palace sewer vent she was sneaking around. Soldiers instantly surrounded her before Marshal Cid walked up to her and sneered out," Your options are very narrow now girl. Any action other than awakening the "Sea Goddess" will result in your death. Being defiant about this will make it a painful end."

Luna saw a soldier point a gun at her face before casually pushing it away." I fear neither death or pain Marshal. You're not as clever as you think because I wanted you to find me. I'm not afraid of my destiny, and I will complete it no matter what."

Luna calmly strutted to the platform with the trident. She saw Yeul bow, smiled and looked at the cheering masses around her. The blond-haired women made a praying gesture." Dear friends. I stand before you today with little hope the words I speak to you shall reach outside these walls. For slowly, but surely, the light fades from our world.

And as it does, the shadows shall loom ever longer until all succumb to darkness. Yes, darkness that evokes terror, hatred, and sorrow in the hearts of men. The ashes of Lucis…Lorican Alliance, the results of a dream of peace twisted into a nightmarish of death and destruction, clamming innumerable lives and leaving myriad souls to suffer. Yet I beg you, do not surrender to despair. Have faith, our gods watch over us.

This so called all mighty Rabum Alal wants us to fight in this Battle-World till only his champion remains. But no matter how grand a prize he can deliver, we must not succumb to this demand for bloodlust.

By their blessing, by the Stars that light the heavens above our world will be delivered from the perils of the dark. I stand before you here, in Altissa to call upon Leviathan, Goddess of the seas. Sprit of the deep.

By the sacred rite, I will commune with the Hydraean, but first, I will offer you my solemn vow. On my honor as Oracle, I will not rest till the darkness is banished from the world and the light is restored. Bless you all."

Luna bowed, causing those around her to erupt into cheers. Noctis saw how many peopled were moved before he grinned." Luna really does know how to inspire people, that was one hell of a speech."

Zidane shrugged before adding," Eh it was ok, a little bland to be honest. Have to admit Garnet could do it better, she is a queen and all so it's natural to her. Got to admit Yuna did it better to, and a few of the others. Still it was ok."

Everyone saw Luna go down a long stairway to the center of the city, with the Trident, before Squall got his Gun-Blade ready." So, it's a summon ritual eh? Most of us have seen that in one shape or another, let's see how they do it in Eos."

After a minute Luna walked to the raised platform and raised the Trident. It begun to shine with light, and after a few moments the water started to ripple before a monstrous voice roared out," What fool mortal dares break the slumber of the Tide!?"

"It is I, Lunafreya, blood of the Oracle!" Luna answered sharply." Goddess of the Seas I beseech you to enter this covenant that the King might reclaim the Stone!"

There were a few moments of silence, before everyone heard a roar, and then a giant but thin giant blue sea serpent with multiple wing-like appendages of 3,377.62 feet high, the great summon sprit of water Leviathan.

While Cloud, Squall, Zidane and many of their comrades and used their own world's Leviathan as a summon, this was the largest version of the sea serpent they seen, causing everyone to get ready to go on the offensive.

Leviathan saw Luna looking at her and roared loud enough to cause a wave of water to collide into the women. Leviathan saw that the women did not even flinch before swimming closer to the Oracle." This wretched pile of bone and flesh, ignorant of that what governs all, comes to requisition the might of the goddess?"

"No." Luna responded firmly."

Ignis saw Noctis looking on in aw before he quickly looked around." Noct, the Hydraean has clearly awaken. Now's our chance. If we don't hurry we will never make it past the Empire's forces in time!"

"Don't worry," Aeris threw in cheerfully," we have magic that can get you right up there in a flash. Let's just wait for the right moment ok?"

Noctis saw how confident Aeris was before he nodded. Everyone's attention was snapped to the Leviathan once more as it lashed about to cause a wave of water to crash into the city before the serpent glared at Luna." What does a lowly , ephemeral speck know of All Creation?"

Leviathan thrashed its tail and smashed the statue next to Luna. But even as it shattered the blond women still did not break her pose. "I know what you must know. Yes, that the King of Kings is to drive darkness from our star."

Leviathan just roared before unleashing another roar and causing a wave of water to smash into Luna. As she got back up the serpent hissed out," Blasphemous, all men, quick to forget the ages their goddess stood watch!"

"It is in receiving mercy that men offer praise, and in shedding grace that the gods solicit warship!"

"Yet this profane speck speaks her "King" heresies before a goddess! Insufferable sacrilege!"

Leviathan showed just how outraged she was at Luna's defiance by going to devour her. But as its jaws closed around Luna's body, she unleashed a massive explosion of holy energy to knock Leviathan back. As the great beast realized what happened Luna pointed her now glowing trident at the serpent." I vow the King will prove himself worthy!"

"If not then the feeding shall begin, and it shawl not end until every speck has been devoured! So let the covenant be forged! Heaven and Earth, High and Deep, Birth and Return, Birth and Rebirth…the time of judgment is at hand!"

Leviathan roared again, before the waves of water suddenly swirled around it. Aries noticed that waves of water were quickly rising over the entire city before she frowned." I don't know if this is how it normally is around here, but this Leviathan is really rude and its getting on my nerves."

Lighting cracked her knuckles before adding," I and the others did not have to put up with this much trash talk during our own tests, not going to take this from a giant sexist prick!"

Zidane chuckled before adding," This one's a she remember? Eh…anyway guess we better tame this beast before it makes a mess. Guess its waiting for you to show up eh? Good thing we blasted through more than water."

Noctis drew his weapon before looking firm." Then prove it, I have a destiny to see through!"

Ardyn saw the Leviathan roar again before he just hanged on to his hat." My oh my, are dear Oracle really devoted her life to preforming her role perfectly, everything is going as smooth as it can be."

"A little to smoothly for my tastes." Hazama retorted dryly as he tipped his own fedora." How about we throw a wrench in things eh? Sounds like a good time for your jester to show off his best trick right?"

Tobi merely nodded, before suddenly jumping off a pillar. The masked man jumped from one object to another and a swift pace, and while water and wreckage both were hurled his way from the force the Leviathan was unleashing, Tobi used his power to phase through them without any difficulty.

The man with the Sharingan suddenly jumped off a tower and used a chain to grasp on to the Leviathan's right eye ridge with it. While the massive creature glared at him Tobi merely chuckled." You act like your above everyone else, but you're not nearly as divine as you been allowed to think Leviathan. Time you be humbled by true divine power, and be of use to us!"

Tobi had his Sharingan glare up as he directly glared at the beast. Leviathan roared furiously, till suddenly the image of the Sharingan appeared on the serpent's own eyes.

Everyone was shocked as the Leviathan suddenly became motionless before Noctis looked at this turn of event with shock. "What the, what's with its eyes? That did not happen with the others!"

"That's because this time the enemy is interfering!" Ezan hissed bitterly as he drew his sword from his sheath." That masked man is bolder then I figured, he used his Sharingan to put Leviathan's mind under his control!"

"He, he can do that?" Prompto blurted out." No way, that kind of broken hax can't be real right?"

Noctis's blond friend go this answer as the Leviathan suddenly roared more furiously than ever before and suddenly trashed its tail to shatter an entire city block. Waves of water then launched out in all directions, causing Tobi to chuckle darkly." All of this dumb beast posturing, and it was subdued far less than the Nine-Tails. Let the dance begin!"

Ezan saw a tidal wave roaring in his direction before he powered up his purple magical aura." It would seem the plan has just changed and the margin of error is even smaller. Aeris, if you would lead off the counter strike?"

"Got it! Planet Protector!" The former flower girl retorted. An aura of holy energy then formed around her body before she extended her right hand and unleashed one of her powerful Limit Break spells to have a massive wall of holy energy materialized in front of the incoming wave to block it.

Even with all of her power blocking such a massive wave caused her to wince. The flower girl just winced before flicking her hair out of her eyes." Well, you all going to keep a lady waiting or what?"

"Thanks Aries, we got this!" Cloud uttered before quickly unleashing his Blade Beam Limit Break attack at the wave. At the same time Squall fired off his Fated Circle Renzokuken skill, Lighting unleashed her Ruinga energy blast, Ezan fired off his own purple Light Divider energy blast from his palm as most of his comrades new and old fired off their own blast.

Aeris opened a hole in her energy wall to let her allies projectiles go through before the blasts went off with enough force to shatter the wave.

Ezan saw Noctis and some of the members of Squad Zero look on in shock before he glared at the prince." Be caught up in the spectacle and you will die! Focus on the objective or fail. Time to prove your resolve Prince."

Noctis braced himself before he ran in the direction of Luna. Seeing Leviathan rampage through the city just caused the prince to harden himself. "Hang on Luna, no matter how this day turns I will prove to everyone I can fulfill my destiny!"

The man in black prepared to throw his sword to warp over to Luna, before suddenly one of the buildings in front of him suddenly got smashed in his direction.

Vincent, Irvine, Alvin, and a few others fired blasts to blow the building up before it could collide into them, till suddenly a solemn male voice uttered," Try as hard as you might Prince, your fate is to fail. I'll see to that."

Noctis and everyone around him cringed as he saw yet another new enemy, a tall, slender, muscular man with purple eyes. He had long purple hair adorned with feathers and tribal beads, with a long, purple and black headband to hold it back.

His form-fitting black and purple armor resembled that of most incarnations of the Dragon Lord Bahamut, and he wore dark boots lined with white fur.

As this man drew a long-curved broadsword with an eye on its hilt Ezan saw Noel look dismayed before he sighed." I take it this is another surprise reunion?"

"Guess your eyes really are sharp eh?" Noel answered sarcastically." That's Caius Ballad, my former mentor! He officially was known as Paddra Ballad-Caius, the peerless hero celebrated as the best guarding of the Farseers village. His entire existence revolved around protecting Yeul. However, unless someone broke his mind he should know the last thing Yeul wants is to be a pawn of theses maniacs!"

Caius saw Yeul look tense before he got into a fighting stance and gave Noel a frosty glare." Sometimes we must make the ones we care about suffer to truly help them Noel. This eternity-it was never your desire. Is that not so Yeul? I will emerge the victor of this Battle-World to grant her true wish, and eradiate Etro's existence forever! And I will cut down anyone who stands in the way of that goal, even, GUH!"

In a flash Ezan wrapped in front of the man in purple and stabbed him in the throat with his blade. As Caius staggered and coughed up blood the sliver haired man uttered a cold," I stomached enough fool's rants for one day. No time to humor your delusions, die knowing the extent of your weakness."

Caius coughed up blood before he fell to his knee." How ruthless, I commend your professionalism. Oblivion, is indeed the fate of all things."

Ezan thought his opponent was about to keel over, before he sensed a surge in hostile intent. Caius suddenly pointed his free hand at the Enji and unleashed a red energy blast. Ezan blocked with his arm but was still blasted back.

As an explosion blasted out everyone saw the wounds on Caius heal before he cleared his healed throat." However, the expectation to that, is one blessed, or cursed, by divine will. Too bad for you, that happens to be me."

Caius turned back to Noctis before suddenly the smoke where his blast went off got blown away by a surge of purple energy, before Ezan emerged. Ben's rival had his Sharingan eyes exposed once more before uttering a cold," So form what I gather your saying your immortal? Is that all you have going for you? Will that save you if I vaporize every cell of your body?"

Caius smirked before he got into a fighting stance and had his own purple aura blaze out with enough force to crack the ground around him. As he pointed his Chaos's Revenge sword at Ezan and had it shimmer with purple energy he looked excited." I don't know what worlds you hail from, but your warriors yes? Then if you have a warrior's pride let us do what this Battle-World is about, lose yourself in battle and rejoice!"

Caius then swung his sword at the ground and unleashed a massive wave of purple energy to attack his targets. Zidane saw Cloud knock the blast away with his own sword before he chuckled." Immortal or not, it's still one dude! Just swarm him and he will be pinned down no matter how many hits he can take!"

Caius glanced at Zidane before he sighed." Trying to use quantity over quality? My, associates have the same train of thought."

Before Zidane could respond he saw a missile coming for him he cursed. As it got blasted out of the air Rem tensed up as she saw the missile came from a large grey and black plane like battle suit flying up to the area she grimaced." I saw that magitek armor before! The only one who pilots the Omega Model Gabriel type is the ace pilot of the Militesi Empire, Brigadier General Qator Bashtar!"

The general with an eyepatch inside the mobile suit like Magitek Armor had its guns lock on to as many targets as he could before he yelled out," I got you rats cornered now at last! This time you won't escape! You got reinforcements, but so do I! Time for the alliance with all the random dregs to prove their worth! Captain of the Third Army Corps 86th Airborne Unit Aranea Highwind, keep the beasts in line!"

An women with fair skin, shoulder-length, silver-blond hair. She wore red and black armor. Her armor was leather and had a "scaly" appearance to allude to dragons, and her long cape also somewhat mimied the appearance of a dragon's wings. The cape was white with the red symbol. She wielded a lance and has green eyes. She wore red-brown boots with unique high heels.

The women, Aranea pointed her lance at the Enji before throwing out a laid back,"All right boys, let's have some fun!"

Ezan saw various figures like Shin, Nimbus, and others working for Ardyn approaching from all directions before he sighed." Victory is still without question, but sizing it might take longer depending on how many other tricks are in store."

Ezan sliced in half another incoming missile before he and his comrades went on the assault. As Noctis tried to figure out how to get through all of these new enemies, the one he was trying to get to was watching her childhood friend with dread.

She tried running out to him before she suddenly coughed violently. As she struggled to get back on her feet she suddenly heard a dark chuckle."My, quite the spectacle yes?"

Luna swerved around to see Ardyn slowly walking up to her. The man had raw hate in his eyes as he walked right up to her." But that's not what today was suppose to be about right? So with that, about that ring."

The red-haired man suddenly kneeled in front of the women and grinned."On second thought, you let him have it."

Before she could say anything Ardyn suddenly stabbed her right in the chest. As she widened her eyes he went right to her side," And do remind him of the crystal."

Despite the distance, Noctis saw Luna fall to the ground, and yelled with pure horror. Ardyn saw him and just made a mocking bow." Oh, Prince! Your bride awaits!"

Ardyn was about to move forward Luna shocked him by standing up using the Trident for support, and muttering a defiant." I will pass…the ring…to the rightful king."

The man who stabbed her grasped her by the face, but in response Luna grasped the man who stabbed her and used holy magic to heal his arm." When the prophecy…is fulfilled…all in thrall of darkness…shall know peace…even you."

Ardyn paused for a moment, till the kindness in the women's eyes caused him to become enraged. He snarled before he slapped her hard enough to knock her hair loose. The man looked consumed with rage till a clapping noise cut him off.

Hazama slowly walked up before he looked at Luna, and cackled out," Dammit women, you're so pure that you're going to make me puke lady! Seriously, trying to heal the man that's killing yah? Where you make this stuff? Tell me honey, don't you have just a shred of doubt dying for a fool who's failed you in every way?"

Luna just closed her eyes before reacting with a solemn,"My life, was never my own. I knew I existed to fulfill a destiny. As long as I can fulfill that, nothing matters to, GUH!"

Hazama suddenly had a dark glimmer flash across his eye as he suddenly kicked Luna in the face. As she fell to the ground Hazama kept kicking her again and again." God you're so pure you really do make me sick. Only thing is I don't puke girlfriend, when I get disgusted I just make the person disgusting me puke blood!

Must feel nice conning yourself into thinking this invisible purpose is so special eh Oracle? It's a great way to not having to admit you suck! Hye hyehehhe hya hyahaha! Weak! You're too weak!"

Despite the abuse she was feeling Luna just glared back at her attacker," Mock me all you like, but my destiny, along with that of Noctis's is real, I know it at the core of my heart! You can never, huh?"

Hazama suddenly stopped before he just snickered and extended his right hand. As a sphere of green and black energy formed in it he grinned." Ah faith, such a fickle thing. It can make people do a hell of a lot of crazy things, but if your able to break it, then you shatter them entirely!

Your faith for your precious cause makes you a perfect sacrificial lamb eh Lunafreya Nox Fleuret? Ever fear that it was all a big sham just once in your entire pathetic life? Well if you did you were right to, because everything you gave yourself up for is just the gods trolling you! I mean with a name like you have your entire existence is a troll, I mean seriously what the literal F?"

Luna's eyes flickered before she spat out," You think the words of a snake can break my resolve so easily? Just kill me and be done with it, I won't cower to you!"

"Oh I don't want you to cower dame, I just want you to see through the lies! Lucky for you not all of us are sheep that have our head in the sand! And because it's just so gosh darn fun I'll give you the full service on the house thanks to the help of my stoic as hell aid Nine! Get the medicine ready, it's time for this sap to get some enlightenment! Heh…this might be as fun as when I trolled that sap Tsubaki Yayoi!"

Luna saw Nine reappear, and as the hooded figure's staff glowed she tensed up." What, what game is this?"

Hazama leaned right up to the blond-haired women before hissing out," I'm waking you up from your shackles of lies so you can see the truth, and awaken to your real self!"

An instant later an explosion of green light broke out, followed by a scream. It was loud enough for Noctis to hear. As the Prince felt a chill down his spine he slashed down a Militesi soldier and screamed out," No, I can't fail her! Damn it, get out of my way!

Caius charged at the prince only for Gladiolus to intercept him. As the Prince saw his long-time body guard use all of his strength to keep Caius back the taller man yelled out," Don't waste time on these guys Noct! Just get to Luna already and leave this to us!"

Caius was about to overpower Gladiolus till Cloud, Noel, and Machina attacked the purple swordsmen from all directions. Noctis just nodded and ran up in the direction of Luna. Nimbus flew at him and prepared to unleash another barrage of light energy projectiles, till a blast from Rem changed his direction and he saw Lighting, Ignis, Squall, and others heading his way.

Noctis realized some of the exotic mercenaries, including one that looked like a red-haired jester with blood-lust in his eyes heading his way and just jumped up before throwing his dagger in Luna's direction.

To his relief the dagger was able to fly uninterrupted and he quickly warped to its location. The Lucis Prince saw Luna on the ground face down. Ardyn and Hazama seemed to be gone and Noctis was to worried to wonder why before he ran over and grasped her to make sure she was still breathing." Luna, Luna can you hear me? Please, I'm here so please don't die!"

Luna kept coughing before at last responding with a weak," Noctis…its really, really you."

"Sorry I was late, everything has gotten so crazy. But I swore I would kept my promise! Everything's going to be ok, just don't die!"

"Is, everything, really, going, to be, ok? Noctis, I have one thing I have to ask you."

Noctis feared Luna was about to cough out her final words as his eyes widened." What is it Luna? Hang on I have a potion with me I promise things are going to be ok! I, GUH!"

Luna suddenly dropped her Trident, and a ruin formed in her hand before a rapier appeared, and she stabbed Noctis in the chest with it. As Noctis looked in shock she saw his fiancé slowly look up at him before he gasped out," Luna, what are you doing? Are, are they using magic on you? You, you have to snap out of it! GUH!"

Suddenly a new saber of energy rained down from the sky and stabbed Noctis in the foot as Luna got up. Noctis realized the women he was supposed to marry was looking coldly at him, before an aura of purple energy was forming around her body.

Luna's hair was turning whiter and her hair was getting longer before she uttered a cold," Stop calling me by that false name Noctis, I'm sick of living in lies! I remember now, I remember the true history! I remember I'm Stella Nox Fleuret! And as a Black Swan of the all mighty Rabum Alal I will see all the lies be erased!"

Noctis coughed up blood before muttering a dazed," What kind of sick joke is that rat Ardyn playing? I never heard of a Stella, just snap out of this already!"

The Black Swan pointed her rapier at Noctis's head before uttering a cold," I can see it again, the light to the Kingdom of the Dead Noctis. Its time, its time all of the false ones are lead to death's door and I'll start with you!"

Stella prepared to stab Noctis through the heart with her rapier, and her target's survival instincts kicked in and he blocked the strike.

Hazama and Ardyn were standing on a building to the upper right and as the two fedora wearing villains saw the former lovers now in a duel to the death before the green haired man laughed." See I told you my way would make this more fun Ardyn! Time to bust out the snacks because this is going to be a hell of a show! Ahahahahaha! Time for all the small fry dolts to see just what true despair is!"

That's a wrap for today but before we leave time for another round of

Authors Notes: As you might have figured, Caius, Noel, and Yeul are from Final Fantasy 13 2, and Squad Zero, Nimbus are from Final Fantasy type Zero while Noctis, Ardyn and their group are from 15.

Kakashi and Tobi are from Naruto, I figured they would be fun and something to add for this arc.

Hazama is once again from Blazblue, I know he was in Cosmic Wars but I figured its a waste to not make use of such a great antagonist, and the later Blazblue games added a lot more so I've figured this was a good time to give him a second showing, and I'm officially using the Yuki Terumi version added in Chrono Phantasma.

Lastly, if your confused about the thing with Stella, well this is NOT from Final Fantasy 15, but from before it was 15, the role Luna had in Final Fantasy Versus. Despite the few scenes she got in Versus, Stella still looked like such a better character then Luna, who despite Square hyping up to be the best toughest women in all of Final Fantasy, honestly came off as blander then some of the NES main female leads, a total disgrace and waste.

Their are some rumors of how the plot to Versus went, hard to know for sure but I'm going to try and at least adapt some of the Versus elements so don't expect 15's broken bland plot entirely repeated just with EZan and co tagging along lol.

Yah...this is my attempt to at least give my own link to the Fabula Nova Crystallis mythos. When this whole mess started Square made a big deal about it all being linked, but in the end while 13 and Type Zero had the same lore they dropped the ball so much they were linked in name only, and when Versus was changed to 15 the links were dropped entirely, meaning more or less, a decade of failed hype, you failed so badly Square. I'll just say, however much time they really spent on Final Fantasy 15, it amounted to ten years of a broken promises and a broken mess.

I mean seriously, how the hell did you screw up so badly that not counting DLC the main game only has five freaking bosses?

Square, you were the bee's knees when you made games that everyone else wanted to rip off of, AKA Final Fantasy 7 to 10. When you started trying to be like the Western games and make Final Fantasy like Call Of Duty to the Witcher you lost your identity, any wonder Persona 5 remembered what made a JRPG was and while it did not sell as much was much better received as a whole?

Heh, more on that later, I'm just saying, the fact that a year after Final Fantasy 15 came out they are still adding DLC arcs to try and make it more " complete" shows just how much of a mess its been. Ah well, that's just how I see it, and that's the end of my rant.

Hope you like how the arc started enough to leave a review and till next time.