Alexander(narrating): Despite his efforts, Sarina still walked away scotch-free. But that didn't even come close to maddening once Selene woke up, friends. In fact, things were going to get more complicated from here on out...
(Selene, Jaxx, and Zayn are in the Snake Pit, unaware that if 'The Evil' doesn't find them here first, another threat to both Bravesword and Forgeland just might)
Jaxx: It's good to see you awake after all this time, Selene. With 'It' still after us, I didn't think we'd find each other again.
Selene: I hear that.(She gets up to get another drink)
Mavro the Malicious: You'd better be able to pay for that.
Selene(Mystified): Pay?
Odin the Oracle: No one steals from our bar.
Selene: Oh, I'm sorry sir. I don't have any money.
Chiro the Chaotic: Y'all get that? Somebody in here ain't a real man.(Jaxx and Zayn attempt to sneak out, but Chiro sees them.)You! We're on a baby hunt.
Mavro the Malicious: And don't think we don't know how to weed 'em out. Now, everybody line up!(Kara, Zarox, Belladonna, and Pamela chuckle as the men line up) DJ! Time for the test.(The DJ gives a thumbs-up to Mavro and plays a CD.)No baby can resist singing along to these little tunes.(Sure enough, a myriad of children's songs is playing all at once. Jaxx and Selene are staying silent, but Zayn is nowhere to be found. We soon see him with something in his pocket)
Chiro the Chaotic: Thief. Do you know what the penalty is for stealing?
Zayn(in his Shining Form): Penalty? What penalty?(Mavro looks at him, then at Jaxx and Selene-who are also in their Shining Forms)
Mavro the Malicious: Well, looks like we got ourselves a double baby! Or is the word...alien!(The three Radiosians realize their mistake, and immediately run for it)
Kara the Killjoy: You can run, but you sure can't hide!(The entire Red Venom gang whoops and cheers as Jaxx and co try to lose them)
Jaxx(thinking): Serves us right for coming here.
Kara the Killjoy(singing): I got a hunch, you're all around us. You broke our trust, so things got serious!
Belladonna the Bitter-Hearted and Pamela the Putrid(singing): You can run, run all you want. We know what you've done. You're not welcome out here.
Mavro the Malicious(singing): You're out of luck, 'cause we are hunters. Don't want to freak you out, but we are monsters!
Belladonna the Bitter-Hearted and Pamela the Putrid(singing): You can run, run all you want. We know what you've done. You're not welcome out here. Hands down, you made us an enemy! Claws out, we'll find you eventually. Can't run from destiny.
Red Venom Gang: Don't try to hide, cause you're history! Come out, come on out. Come out, come on out now! In the dark, in the park, in the wild. Hey, come on out now! In the streets, in the trees, in the night. Hey, come on out now!
Belladonna the Bitter-Hearted(singing): We're on the prowl until we find you. Savages hunting under the full moon.
Kara the Killjoy and Pamela the Putrid(singing): You can run, run, run away to the Milky Way. You're not welcome out here.
Chiro the Chaotic(singing): This is our land, our territory. So, we will end your part of the story!
Kara the Killjoy and Pamela the Putrid(singing): Yeah, you can run, run like the wind. Call your mommy ship. You're not welcome out here. Hands down, you made us an enemy! Claws out, we'll find you eventually. Can't run from destiny.
Red Venom Gang: We hope you've filed for bankruptcy! Come out, come on out. Come out, come on out now! In the dark, in the park, in the wild. Hey, come on out now! In the streets, in the trees, in the night. Hey, come on out now!
Kara the Killjoy and Mavro the Malicious(singing): You are playing with a fiery mind. But you're never gonna take our pride.
Chiro the Chaotic and Pamela the Putrid(singing): Don't go messing around in our town. We'll track you down wherever you are.(Hey!)
Red Venom Gang(singing): Listen up, if anything goes missing. Listen, listen up, you will never be forgiven! No, listen! We'll do anything to track you down. So, come on out now. In the dark, in the park, in the wild. Hey, come on out now! In the streets, in the trees, in the night. Hey, come on out now!(You can't fight this! Try to run, try to hide but you will die)Hey, come on out now!(You'll eventually regret this! You can flee, you can fly. But it's no use...!)Hey, come on out now!
(The three are soon found by masked warrior wearing s a special sleeveless suit with black and red burgundy colors, plus yellow details on his knees, ankles, shoes and his communicator. He has a black and burgundy helmet with yellow stripes and oval shaped white circles on each side of his face.)
Venator: You three really do know how to stir up trouble, don't you?
Jaxx: You. You're one of those Prowlers!
Venator: I know. That's what sickens me.(He looks saddened as he says this)Now, let's hope you've learned how bad the outside world really is. For what it's worth, I don't want to have to save you again. You're too special to be a lost asset, after all!
Selene: I guess you're right.(The three teleport back to Bravesword, just as Venator notices he's been spotted)
Tomars the Treacherous: We'll be in pretty hot water if that alien has the map of our underground lair, Mavro.
Mavro the Malicious: Apologies, Master.
Chiro the Chaotic: But what's the deal with that masked dude? Don't we got enough allies in that category?
Tomars the Treacherous: If his master is who I think she is, then we'll have more problems to come.
(As Venator makes his way back to Abyss, we soon see he is actually Yuki-who isn't enjoying what is about to happen to him next)
Yuki: Okay, gotta play it smooth. It's either this or my entire career falls apart...(Singing)For oh so many years, I have been haunted by one mistake I made while just a youth. Since then, the only thing I ever wanted was that my friends would never learn the truth. I used to think, I did not need to worry. They all believed my tale through and through. But now my heart aches and I have to hurry. Don't know what would happen if they knew! It's true. Now I cannot let this bring me down! Gotta keep my pace, and not show a frown. Not so thrilled, yet still I know what I must do. I've gotta keep my friends aloft. I cannot break their world apart! Hurting them is something I would never do. Something I would never do...(Spoken)Yeah, that's right. I can't spill the beans now, not when Aaron's so close! But Sarina? ARGH, she's putting me up with this kind of biz! No way I can fail now. Then again, that means...(Singing)Years ago I did not know just how much they care for me. But now I feel their love is real and I can't bear to lose my family. I won't reveal my little lie. I have to steal and then deny. Not so thrilled, yet still I know what I must do. Just got to keep my head aloft. I cannot break my world apart! Losing them is something I could never...(UGH!)So, I must do something I could never...(NO!)Yes, I will do something I would never do! Something... Something I would never do.
Alexander(narrating): Oh... Poor Yuki. There's not a person like him struggling to make ends meet, is there?
Zarya(noticing something fell out from Elena's bag): What's this? A mask?
Alexander(narrating): Oh boy, Zarya's found the answer already. And we all know whose mask that is.(He winks)I think it's best to keep her in the dark about it, though. Wouldn't want her getting the wrong idea, now, would we?
(Meanwhile, Bradley walks down the passageway alone)
Yuki: Hey, friend.
(Bradley turns around to see Yuki)
Yuki: Let's not deny that there's a connection between us. How about you and me have ourselves a little date, huh?
Bradley: Now is not the time.
Yuki: Sure, it is. With my heart full from a nice date, I'll be poised to fight with extra vigor in the next battle. When the bell strikes midnight, meet me out front of the Holy Mausoleum. My only condition is that you arrive promptly after midnight-and not a moment before. What say you?
Bradley: Um... Isn't it forbidden to enter the Holy Mausoleum?
Yuki: All will be revealed when you arrive. Nobles have nearly killed one another fighting for my affections, you know. Perhaps you won't get all you want out of me, heh, but I'll promise you a fun time regardless. It's settled. I'll see you tomorrow night, friend. Don't stand me up.
(Meanwhile)
Priest: Your Grace, please reconsider. The chalice is among the church's greatest treasures, akin even to the Heroes' Relics.
Richardson: I am well aware, which is why I have already dealt with the matter. Consider this, the Heroes' Relics are fearsome weapons imbued with great power. On the contrary, the chalice has long lost the power it once possessed. It is little more than a token of history.
Priest: If that is so, then why is it still considered such an important artifact?
Richardson: It was created for a sacred purpose. To use the blood of the Four Apostles to...return the goddess to our world. Their blood...
Priest: Your Grace? Is something the matter?
Richardson: I have an urgent mission for you. Investigate the origins of the Ashen Wolves. Start with their enrollment forms for the academy. Keep an eye out for falsified documents.
Priest: Yes, of course. Understood.
Richardson: Before you begin, summon Alexander at once. I have new orders for the brigade as well.
Priest: As you wish, Your Grace.
Richardson: If I am correct, we haven't a moment to lose. Another tragedy is soon to transpire...
Alexander(narrating): Ah, our story seems to be getting tense. Our heroes don't know there's another enemy on their side, and Aaron doesn't realize there's someone else with greater ambitions than his! Hold on to your popcorn, folks. I have a feeling this is going to get hotter!
Barney: That crumbly old chapel somewhere nearby or what?
Cece: I can play little part here, save perhaps as a bargaining chip for our dear Aelfric...
Adam: Getting yourself captured instead? That wouldn't be good at all, Cece!
Harriet: I think we should be more worried about B's... appearance. I mean, he's got way, WAY more, uh...life experience than the rest of us. And all that life experience makes you look more like a knight than a student, B.
Barney: You saying I'm old, pal? Don't forget you're speaking to the Ageless King of Grappling.
Hannah: She's not wrong, Barn. There's a pretty big age gap between you two.
Elena: You're friends with Hannah's older brother, right? That explains your...maturity. You make Harold look like a spring chicken.
Barney: Can it, will ya? Anyway, I'm wearing a school uniform. No way in hell they'll think I'm a knight.
Yuki: Yeah, and anyone wearing a school uniform is without a doubt a student.
Adam: To be honest, for a good while, I actually did think you might be a knight... Who made your uniforms and set up the Ashen Wolf House, anyhow?
Cece: If I might so humbly interject, that would be Aaron.
Yuki: He pulled everything together for us...some time after he was appointed as the guardian of Abyss. Said he wanted to give former students who were expelled from the academy somewhere to live. Somewhere to belong. Of course, all of this was established long before any of us were in the picture.
Ben: So getting you four together was a coincidence?
Elena: Perhaps. After hearing all of that, it's not as unbelievable as I'd thought.
Harriet: All I know is that he helped me, so I'll help him.
Cece: I strongly doubt that I shall factor into Aaron's retrieval, but I shall follow your lead.
Barney: There it is. We owe Aaron. Maybe your goddess doesn't care about debts, but my fists and I sure do.
Yuki: Sorry to have roped you into all this, friend.
Bradley: If it's for my students...
Barney: What a pal! The Forgotten Four really landed an A+ professor. Not just on paper, but in practice too. This is great! Has me ready to get to it and start hitting things.(The team walks off, but Yuki and Bradley stay behind)
Bradley: What's up? cared?
Yuki: How cheeky. Me? Never. Although... Ever since I was a kid, I've lived my life by one rule-that I'd only play my hand if I was guaranteed victory. I've gotten this far by using my cunning in any way necessary-lying, cheating, even killing when there was no other way... But this next play? Well, the odds don't exactly seem to be in my favor. Not unless you trust me enough to provide me with an ace... Heh. Never you mind, friend. Let's just go.
(The gang sees White Marauder, Black Swordsman, a whole horde of thieves and Michael.)
Michael: Ha ha ha! At last you've arrived! You certainly took your sweet time...
Aaron: My flock! Why have you come?!
Barney: To save you of course. You didn't really think we'd just up and abandon you, did ya?
White Marauder(singing): Huh, let's get this party started! I swear I'm cold-hearted. There's no negotiation, I'm not here for debatin'! You need some motivation? Just look at Aaron's face, then ask yourself how long you think I'll remain patient I'll throw him overboard and let him swim with killer sharks. You either hand over what we want, or he'll be ripped apart.
Brenda(singing): Now, let's all just be smart. Although for you that must be hard. You'll get what you want, no one has to come to any harm! Don't try to intimidate-your bark is much worse than your bite. Who's the baddest of them all? I guess we're finding out tonight.
Rogues(singing): Let's go, bring it on! Better give us what we want.
Black Swordsman(singing): You know what we need...
Dennis(singing): You know what we want!
Rogues(singing): If you don't, it's going down!
Bravesword Crew(singing): Let's go, make your move! Peace or war, it's up to you! Give him up and do it now! If you don't, it's going down!
Michael and Black Swordsman(singing): You know what we want, or else this deal is off!
Rogues(singing): The time is running out. You should really watch your mouth!
Bravesword Crew(singing): Let's go, pound for pound! We're prepared to stand our ground. Put your swords up, put 'em up! It's going down!(Choir: Take it down to the wire, you know it's going down! Take it down to the wire, you know...)
Brenda(singing): Ok, look, this is not a conversation. It's a do-or-die situation. If you don't give Aaron back, I'll have no hesitation. I'll serve you right here. And I don't need a reservation. That way your whole entire crew can have a demonstration. Release him now, and we can go our separate ways. If you do wanna fight, girl, that's still OK.
White Marauder(singing): So that's your big speech, huh? And it's the ultimatum?
Michael(spoken): All it takes is one swing and I'll humiliate him. Matter of fact, make one wrong move and I'll debilitate him! And if he even starts to slip, I'll eliminate him! All it takes is one wrong look and I'll-
Black Swordsman: Mikey! We get it. Chill.
Rogues(singing): Let's go, bring it on! Better give us what we want.
White Marauder(singing): You know what we need...
Cece(singing): You know what we want!
Rogues(singing): If you don't, it's going down!
Bravesword Crew(singing): Let's go, make your move! Peace or war, it's up to you! Give him up and do it now! If you don't, it's going down!
Michael and Black Swordsman(singing): You know what we want, or else this deal is off!
Rogues(singing): The time is running out. You should really watch your mouth!
Bravesword Crew(singing): Let's go, pound for pound! We're prepared to stand our ground. Put your swords up, put 'em up! It's going down!
Yuki(singing): Hey! We don't have to choose.(Black Swordsman: What?)We don't have to light the fuse. Guys, whatever you do, it's gonna be a lose-lose. There's gotta be a better way. And by the way, I promise I'll give you your chance. You'll have your say.
White Marauder: Come on, now! You? Give me?(Black Swordsman laughs evilly)You're gonna give me a chance?
Black Swordsman and White Marauder(singing): Well, not a chance!(Choir: Take it down to the wire, you know it's going down! Take it down to the wire, you know...)
Brenda: Okay. I see how we're gonna play this...(She presents the Chalice of Beginnings)
Aaron: You found the chalice? When I told you of it, I never imagined you'd-
White Marauder: Let's make sure it's not some cheap imitation. Hand it over.
Yuki: Not until you hand over the hostage. There needs to be some degree of a trusting exchange here.
Michael: I can see you don't understand your own predicament. We've no issue with killing the lot of you and taking it either way.
Harriet: I can't tell if this guy's ears are stuffed with wool or if he's just this stupid.
Yuki: Can't say I'm surprised. Thugs like this aren't about to show us any gesture of sincerity.
Aaron: Yuki! Stand down! Leave me! Take the chalice and flee-you must! It is irreplaceable-you must not hand it to these brigands!
Barney: Heh. You know us better than that. We didn't come here without a plan. Do your thing, Harriet!
Black Swordsman: Wait- Do what thing?
Harriet: Seriously? Right now?
Michael and Black Swordsman: Uh...
Barney: Now, Harriet!
Harriet: Fine. Fine. Fine.(sigh)
Aaron: Her sigh! She-
Giant Bird: Crawwwwww!
Yuki: I've gotta say, that sigh of hers never gets old.
Harriet: Yeah, yeah, glad you like the show. It's not like it's a gift I asked for.
Rogue: Gyah! Where did that thing come from?!(Some of the rogues run away)
Yuki: Hahaha! Absolute cowards! How entertaining. Barney, will you do the honors?
Barney: Leave it to me, Boss! I got-DAMN! Argh!
Giant Bird: Crawwwwww!
Yuki: Hey, Barney, quit screwing around! Oh...wow. It flew off with him. He'll sort it out. At least we got Aaron back in one piece. Now, to handle these fools.
White Marauder: Cheap party tricks! Let's make these children scream!
(As Ben helps Aaron, everyone else ends up in a tight brawl)
Choir: Take it down to the wire, you know it's going down! Take it down to the wire, you know... Take it down to the wire, you know it's going down! Take it down to the wire, you know... Take it down to the wire, you know it's going down! Take it down to the wire, you know...
Yuki: We got what we came for, let's go!
Choir: Take it down to the wire, you know it's going down! Take it down to the wire, you know... Take it down to the wire, you know it's going down! Take it down to the wire, you know...
Cece: Bye-bye...! Whoever you are.
White Marauder(singing): What's my name? What's my name? What's my name? Say it now!(The gang heads out to relax)
Barney: You OK, Aaron?
Aaron: I am. All thanks to you. The Chalice-is it unharmed?
Harriet: Yes, it's safe. Chatterbox is-(Three dark mages warp in around Barney, Harriet, and Cece)
Cece: What?!
Yuki: Nighty night!
Barney: Yuki! You damned scoundrel! What are you doing?!
Yuki: Heh, I think you can see what I'm doing, Barney.(Aaron Beautifully executed, Yuri. The chalice is finally mine now. Along with the blood of the Four Apostles.
Cece: It seems I was correct...that there was an enemy in our midst. To think our bird was instead a rat.
Yuki: You've always had a wild imagination, Cwce. I've got to say, turning your attention elsewhere was a challenge even for me.
Aaron: That is enough with the banter, Yuri. I informed you not to divulge too much.
Yuki: They'll all be under the dirt soon enough. It's not like they'll be able to talk at that point. After all I've gone and done for you, Aelfric, I would think you'd have just a bit more faith in me.
Aaron: Hmmm...
Yuki: Your silence speaks volumes... Guess this is the end of the niceties.(turning to Bradley) It's all on you now, friend. I'm sure you and the others will figure it out.
Dennis: Professor! Are you injured?
Bradley: It's nothing too concerning...
Elena: I see you're well enough to make light of a serious situation. But surely you suffered a wound.
Bradley: I didn't.
Carter: Teach, there's no time for playing around. Tell us how- Ah, I get it. He only pretended to attack you, didn't he? So, you were just playing a part in this grand performance. But was that really the smartest decision here?
Dennis: The chalice and the Four are gone. I am loath to think what will become of them without our help.
Elena: And how do you propose we pursue them? We haven't a clue where they went.
Carter: Well, we know what they're after. That at least narrows down the possibilities.
Richardson: Professor! Are we too late?
Elena: Madame? Why have you come?
Richardson: After sending you all off, I began to investigate the lineage of the Ashen Wolves. In doing so, I was able to confirm that the documented information about their Crests was falsified. What was once a wild speculation, I now know to be true. The Crests they bear are the same as those of the Four Apostles-the very same who long ago enacted the Rite of Rising. Once the blood of the four is poured upon the chalice, its power can be harnessed. I believe we have enough evidence to assume that our Ashen Wolves will suffice to carry out this ritual.
Dennis: So, Aaron's aim must be to carry out the Rite of Rising...at the expense of the students... Madame... What, precisely, is the purpose of this ritual?
Carter: We've heard it has the power to resurrect life, but that can't be true... Can it?
Richardson: The chalice is a holy artifact, created by Sarah herself. It serves to restore a physical form that was previously lost to this world.
Carter: So those wild tales are true. It really can bring someone back to life.
Richardson: Not exactly. It can breath life into a body, but it cannot return a spirit that has already departed. Ultimately, it is a tool to return the goddess to her physical form. Her spirit is omnipresent, but her flesh is no more. Such incredible power is truly awe inspiring- and extremely dangerous. In that way, it is akin to the Heroes' Relics. For this reason, the Four Apostles were never intended to pass down their Crests. This gathering should never have been possible. The Ashen Wolves are now gathered together, making it possible once more.
Carter: And Aaron is at the center of this mess, luring them all to Abyss for his own selfish reasons. Without so much as a whisper of it to the church, of course.
Richardson: This incident is my own doing. I never should have entrusted the chalice to them.
Elena: Madame, do you have any idea where they could have gone?
Richardsom: I do indeed. Garreg Mach, which is protected by the goddess, is the only place the Rite of Rising can be performed. Holding such a ritual requires absolute focus, so I imagine the setting would need to be serene, peaceful.
Dennis: There are countless such places within the monastery walls...
Ben: Like the Holy Mausoleum?
Elena: It's certainly peaceful there, but due to last month's incident, it's heavily guarded at the present.
Richardson: For now, let us return to the monastery. There is much to consider.(Alexander runs in)
Aleander: Madame!
Richardson: You look troubled, Alex. What has happened?
Alexander: Thieves have breached Bravesword's village walls! They've been pillaging the shops and residences, taking whatever they please!
Richardson: I wonder if this has anything to do with Aaron.
Alexander: There's no telling, but for now, their numbers are too great. They need the brigade! By your will, Madame, allow us to clear the village of these hooligans!
Richardson: Yes, Alex. Please ensure the safety of the villagers immediately. However, leave a few of your best here with me.
Alexander: Yes, Your Grace. I'll see to it.
Carter: Teach? You look like you've got something to say.
Bradley: I do. It's about Yuki...
Carter: He told you to meet up with him at the Holy Mausoleum? You never run out of secrets, do ya, Teach?
Dennis: I'm certain that Yuki had his reasons for setting up this meeting. He took the time to speak with you, however cryptically, before he left.
Elena: Fair point, Dennis. I do wonder why he told you it needed to be after midnight. Wouldn't it be better to rush to their aid immediately?
Carter: Yuki's no fool. There's a method to his madness...(Meanwhile, Barney and the girls are waking up)
Harriet: Where the heck are we?
Yuki: Finally, you're all awake. Good morning, sleepyheads. Or is it a good evening?
Cece: Yuki! You scoundrel! You are unfit to speak to us, liar that you are!
Yuki: Yeah, yeah, liar, blah-blah. Nothing I haven't heard before.
Barney: Look, pal, enough beating around the bush. What exactly are you trying to accomplish here? Where's Aelfric? And what the hell are you plotting?
Yuki: Questions, questions. You're wearing me out, Balthus. Fine, then. I'll lay it out for you. Aelfric intends to reenact the Rite of Rising. He's preparing everything as we speak.
Harriet: What is this silly rite, anyway? He trying to do some crazy magic to raise the dead or something?
Yuki: Actually, yes. By offering up the blood of the Four Apostles in the chalice, you can bring someone back to life. Saint Seiros performed the ritual 995 years ago, but not enough blood was given up. So the ritual was a bust. No clue what happened after that. That's what Aaron concluded after scouring the records, anyway. And now, through extreme persistence, he's found and gathered the four of us, with our Crests. He placed us under his direct supervision within the Ashen Wolf House, and he did all of it to ensure a successful ritual-the Rite of Rising.
Cece: You mean to say that he intends to drain our blood? To kill us?! Such an act would be unforgivable! An atrocity! I cannot die in this wretched hovel!
Harriet: Yeah, that sounds painful...and permanent. Count me out. Hang on-the number four includes you too, right? So you're gonna die too?
Yuki: Yep. That's the idea.
Barney: And here I thought we were close, but all this time you've been skulking around, deceiving us. It hurts, Boss. Hurts bad. You wanna die, that it? Fine. I'll kill you myself. Just stop that crafty nonsense of yours and face me, fist to fist.
Yuki: Shut it. I've lived through hell and worse. After clawing my way here, you really think I want to die.
Barney: Then why throw your life away for the likes of Aelfric?
Yuki: Some things are more important than my own life. Some things are worth protecting.
Barney: You're not making any damned sense!
Aaron: It would seem that you want to be punished severely, Yuki.
Yuki: That some sort of threat? There's not much you can do to me that hasn't already been done.
Aaron: True. You took wing from the mud into which you were born and rose to such great heights. To break your spirit would take far too much effort. Though, if I must, I will kill your mother in addition to your dear people.
Barney: Oh... So that's it. You were trying to protect your mom.
Cece: Precisely what is it you are hoping to accomplish, Aaron?
Aaron: To resurrect someone I lost long ago-no matter the cost. Surely there are those for whom you'd do similar.
Cece: Perhaps... Even so, never would we annihilate those we care for!
Aaron: There's nothing I wouldn't do; nobody I wouldn't trade to see the light in her eyes once more...
Barney: Whoa... that lady looks real dead, pal.
Aaron: She is...for now.
Barney: You're gonna regret this, Aaron.
Aaron: I accepted the regret I might feel from this long ago. As long as she returns, nothing else matters. Yuri, if you think you'll be pulling anything funny, think again. The Security Brigade won't save you. No doubt they're indisposed right now on some mission or other.
Yuki: Well, that's a damn shame. The whole evil villain look really doesn't suit someone as "pious" as you, Aaron. Heh heh...
Harriet: Yuki-bird, I could-
Yuki: Not yet.
Aaron: It is time. Take them. Your blood will pour forth, filling the chalice.
Yuki: You really are a fool...
Aaron: You were diligent, Yuki. You kept me abreast of all the Ashen Wolves' movements. As recompense for being such a good student of my flock, I will gladly hear any final words from you.
Yuki: Heh, that's fresh. If you knew me at all, you'd know these won't be my final words. I'm simply biding my time.
Aaron: For what...
Yuki: For the descent of God. Can you hear it?
Aaron: Bells? This late at night?
Yuki: Yeah, you hear that, Aaron? That's the sound of your demise. The brigadiers are releasing my people as we speak. The ones you locked up and hid away.
Aaron: How did you know about that- Wait, the Security Brigade?!
Yuki: Heh heh... Like I said, the evil villain look really doesn't suit you. I know it was you who sent me on that mission that ultimately led to me landing in Abyss. Overall, your execution was lacking. The Madame has been on to you as well. Oh, and just so you know, I've been working for her since before I ever began working for you. She had me keeping an eye on you. Told me to inform her if you seemed to be planning anything.
Aaron: You!
Yuki: But you took those I care most about hostage, which limited my options. You chained up the Wolves and kept a tight grip on my rogues in Abyss to ensure I wouldn't betray you. I struggled with whether or not to tell her everything. After all, my allies' lives were on the line. I deliberated on what to do next, knowing I'd have to rely on my own cunning to see this through. I waited for the chance I could rescue my mother and allies. All while paying lip service to you. Until today. The day you pulled all your forces in so you could attempt this ritual. You're no villain, with that sticky conscience you call a heart tripping you up. Not like me.
Aaron: Grr... I see. You were one step ahead of me all this time. It matters not. The ritual has begun. There's no stopping it now. You will all die. Just a bit longer.
Yuki: Don't think for a moment-
Barney: That you're getting off easy, pal! Seriously, Boss. Did you have to tie us up so tightly?
Yuki: Heh heh... Sorry, Barney. I figured those little tears would be enough for you to break through the rope.
Barney: I may be the Unbeatable King of Grappling, but I'm also bleeding profusely... You didn't wonder why it was taking me so long? Think next time, yeah?
Cece: I haven't the slightest what you two are jabbering on about, but please untie our ropes as well.
Yuki: You're talking. Do it yourself. I dispelled the silence from you ages ago, or hadn't you noticed?
Cece: Oh! I see!
Harriet: t's great that we're not tied up anymore and all that, but we're still being actively drained...
Aaron: I've invested everything to ensure my success today. My private funds, a veritable army... Surround them! Don't let them escape! The ritual will not be stopped.
Cece: Ugh! Why won't it cease? We are freed, and yet our blood still drains from us?
Yuki: Hmmm. Well, this wasn't part of the plan. Haha!
Cece: This is no laughing matter! Our very lives are ebbing away!
Yuki: Stop panicking, Cece. You know I'm never unprepared.
Barney: Hey, you've always got a trick up your sleeve, don't ya? I can hear your secret plan running our way.
(Bradley and the others notice Kevin, Sam, Taylor, and Zarya are tied up)
Brenda: What happened to you guys?
Zarya: Aaron happened.
Sam: He had us tied up. Said we'd "outlived our usefulness."
Ben: Oh, you sure as hell did! And now Yuki and the others are in danger.
Kevin: This is all my fault. Aaron always said my unrelenting nature would get the best of me but even I didn't realize he was right.
Taylor: Right now, we're the only hope for all four of them. So, what's say we pay Aaron back for his mistreatment!
Ben: Look.
Hannah: Ugh. I don't know what's happening here, but it definitely doesn't look good.
Dennis: Can this really be the Rite of Rising... What precisely is going on?
Lionel: Their blood is being drained and then transformed into...raw power... Ugh... I... That's a lot of blood. Too much blood. This is hard to watch.
Cece: Could you step within the magical vortices beside us to obstruct their flow? Quickly, now! It is crucial to halting the Rite of Rising! The vortices are repelling the Crests of the Apostles! We can't block them ourselves!
Yuki: Look, we really want to help, but right now, we just can't. Please do what you can!
Kevin: Taylor, Zarya; you help the girls. Sam, you and Ben free Barney and Yuki. I'm going after Aaron!
(Sam disrupts Barney's vortex)
Sam: One chain broken! I promised to look out for Barney like a brother and I wasn't going to let him down, traitor!
Aaron: What?
Cece: Well done! But you must stanch the flow from the other vortices too!
Aaron: No... No! Stop them!
(Taylor disrupts Harriet's vortex)
Taylor: You made us look like fools to get what you wanted. I will never forgive you for hurting my poor Harriet!
(Zarya disrupts Cece's vortex)
Zarya: You put us on a dead end, not a path. You'll pay, Aaron!
Ben: Now to free Yuki and see to it your planning was all for nothing!
Aaron: The ritual-it cannot fail!
Carter: Now that we've stopped the ritual, all that's left on the agenda is a defeated Aaron!
Aaron: It matters not whose blood it is anymore. Even if I must use your blood to see this through. I will! Soon...soon, she will be brought back to me. Should anyone attempt to get between us, they will sorely regret it.
Kevin: NEVER!
Aaron: Not yet... There's still time! Professor. You would raise your sword against me? Your mother lies here, waiting for us. Waiting for you! Don't you want her back?
Carter: Teach, is that true, or is he just trying to freak us out? If so...it's kind of working.
Brenda: We know the real story, Aaron! Our mother died giving birth to us...
Aaron: There is no room for doubt. I know her appearance better than anyone. This...is her. An upstanding nun who married Jeralt, she died 21 long years ago...
Dennis: You cannot expect us to believe that someone who died two decades ago is still in such pristine condition...
Aaron: Incredible, isn't it? It's as though she remains untouched, even after all these years... Perhaps her body differs from others. Beautiful, ageless-perfectly preserved by some secret only she knows. Whatever the case may be, it is strange, is it not? It's been 10 long years since I found her. I came across her body, frozen in time, deep underground. I have worked tirelessly to solve the riddle of her death and bring her back to life.
Richardson: Halt, Aelfric.
Aaron: Richardson! You are the cause of this! It was you who killed her! When she gave birth to a child who made no sound. Tell me what you've done to her! Why does her body remain while her spirit does not?!
Richardson: I owe you no words on the matter. But I will tell you this... She made the choice to die, that her offspring might live. I respected her will. Nothing more. Aaron. Just as I viewed her, so do I view you. You are as my own child. Please, cease this futility.
Aaron: Oho! You expect that I should believe you without question?! You see her lying her before you, and yet you "owe no words." Rhea, I am finished with you. The only thing that remains to be done is to complete the ritual.
Taylor: He's getting away!
Bradley: Then what are we waiting for? Let's end this.
Elena: Yes, we must stop him at once. Let's figure out where he disappeared to.
Dennis: What about you four? You don't look like you're up for much of anything right now.
Yuki: It'll take a lot more than that to stop me. If anything, I feel speedier with less blood weighing me down.
Barney: Probably for the best that he drained us, otherwise our blood would be boiling.
Cece: Ugh, speak for yourselves. I feel atrocious. We must end this, and swiftly.
Harriet: Count me in.
Barney: Then we're all on the same page. But first things first... Let me see that pretty face of yours, Boss.
Yuri: Hm?(Barney punches Yuki in the face)Agh!
Barney: Why the hell didn't you tell us?
Yuki: I'm sorry I had to use you all. But there wasn't much choice-someone would've died for sure otherwise. It could've been any of you. It could've been one of my rogues, someone from Abyss... Who knows.
Cece: You imply that you didn't trust us enough! I am incensed by you, Yuri.
Harriet: Use me or don't, but it would've been nice if you'd asked us first.
Barney: Look, I get it. Your people were being held hostage. You were between a rock and a hard place. But I thought we were pals. Buddies till the end.
Yuki: I... I need you...all of you. I've been a fool. Thank you for always being here for me. Even now.
Barney: All right, I think this fool gets the picture. Time to find that other fool and take him down!(to Bradley)You'll help with that, yeah?
Bradley: Obviously.
Yuki: Haha! I love the lip on this one. Let's do this, guys.
Aaron(thinking): Curse those meddling kids! To me, growing up inside the shelter of the monastery, she was my world... All of the memories I hold of her-learning, growing, walking hand in hand-she left me in awe. If that's what makes her happy, then I will watch her walk away with warmth in my heart. If that is truly what will make her happy... Surely, he will make her smile. That's all I wanted for her. To Siri, confined within the monastery walls, he was her world. I saw the way her eyes glimmered when they spoke. And her otherworldly smile when they became engaged. The look on her face when she told me how happy she was to bear his child... It was enough for me to see her happiness-to witness it from a distance. She breathed her last, 21 long years ago. I have never forgotten. She died before she could see the face of the child whom she had so lovingly nurtured... The funeral was a solemn affair. We gathered in the graveyard, said our farewells, and watched as her casket was lowered into the soil. That was the end of her story. Or so I thought. Until 10 years ago, when I found her-her remains, hidden deep within Abyss. She looked as beautiful as ever.
Richardson: Aaron, cease this at once.
Aaron: It is too late. The chalice is filled to its brim with the blood of the four. Should their blood prove insufficient, I will spill even my own blood to finish this.
Richardson: The chalice cannot return her soul, Aelfric. It is incapable even of returning the body to life.
Brenda: Please, you must stop. Maybe you should stop using the magic. Too much of it can be dangerous if you can't control it.
Aelfric: Be not afraid. Today, your mother returns to us. The time has come. Perhaps I am not an equal man to him... But I am here by your side, Siri. Siri... Si...ri...
Ben: Something's going on!
Kevin: And I might have an inkling as to what it is.
Elena: The chalice... It absorbed both of them!
Dennis: That aberration... What is it? An...umbral beast?
Umbral Beast: Siriii!
Richardson: So, I see... It is just as the last time the ritual was performed.
Barney: Is this really happening? Aelfric turned into... that thing?!
Harriet: Ugh. It does seem like some kind of sick joke.
Yuki: So, this is the Rite of Rising? Quite the dangerous ritual, if you ask me...
Brigadier: Madame! Monsters have appeared at the cathedral!
Rhea: Could it be? Perhaps his roar drew them there... Everyone who is capable must fight this beast-now.
Yuki: Madame. Things ended up this way because of me. Please allow me to make up for it.
Richardson: Yuki...
Yuki: It'll give me a chance to hold up my end of the deal. Let me fight for the church.
Cece: Ahaha! So very like you to steal the glory in the heat of the moment. Aaron used us-he lied to us-and attempted to slay us. Despite that, he provided shelter when I had none. We must end things swiftly, for his sake.
Harriet: He's never going to be normal again, is he? For all those years, he tried to make this happen-bring her back-only to lose himself. That's pretty awful.
Barney: He made his choice. All we can do is accept it. Let's do all of us a favor and take him out real quick-like, yeah?
Carter: We'll help too. Together we stand, together we fall.
Dennis: Yes, you can rely on us until the very end.
Elena: Time to lower the curtain on this unfortunate tale.
Bradley: Let's do this.
Richardson: Please, act swiftly but with great care. By my order, stop the umbral beast-stop Aaron!
Kevin: Sam, Taylor, Zarya. It is time to stand with those we have sworn to protect, and those who have aided us! For together, we are more! United, we are strong!(Magical auras flow through the eight warriors)
Bradley and Elena: Together, we are more! United, we are strong!(Manifestations of Eli, Rico, and the Wing Raiders appear as an aura flows through the two and Lionel)
Brenda and Dennis: Together, we are more! United, we are strong!(Manifestations of Vic, and the Claw players appear as an aura flows through the two and Adam)
Ben and Carter: Together, we are more! United, we are strong!(Manifestations of Kristy, Larry, and Bucks for Luck appear as an aura flows through the two and Hannah)
Alexander(narrating): From that moment onward, our subterranean heroes could do no wrong. They were so hot, steam looked cool...(Singing)You got the touch. You got the power. Yeah! After all is said and done. You've never walked, you've never run. You're a winner. You got the moves; you know the streets. Break the rules, take the heat! You're nobody's fool. You're at your best when the going gets rough. You've been put to the test, but it's never enough! You got the touch. You got the power. When all hell's breaking loose, you'll be riding the eye of the storm! You got the heart. You got the motion. You know that when things get too tough. You got the touch. You never bend, you never break. You seem to know just what it takes. You're a fighter! It's in the blood, it's in the will. It's in the mighty hands of steel. When you're standing your ground! And you never get hit when your back's to the wall. Gonna fight to the end and you're taking it all. You got the touch. You got the power. When all hell's breaking loose, you'll be riding the eye of the storm! You got the heart. You got the motion. You know that when things get too tough. You got the touch. You're fighting fire with fire. You know you got the touch! You're at your best when the going gets rough. You've been put to the test, but it's never enough. You got the touch. You got the power. Yeah! You got the touch. You got the power.
Richardson: It is finished. Well done, everyone. Because of you, her restless soul has finally found peace. Professor... I imagine you have much on your mind.
Bradley: Our mother...
Richardson: I was there the day she brought you fourth into this world. Sitri had always been frail. Giving birth proved to be too much for her in the end... On that fated day, it looked as though neither of you would survive. In those final moments, she spoke, saying, "My heart... Give it to my child."
Brenda: Our mother's heart gave us life?
Richardson: That is correct. The heart that lies within your chest is none other than hers. It was the only way that you could be saved. But Sitri loved others, much as a human might-and I loved her in return.
Ben: But why wasn't she buried?
Richardson: Siri looked upon me as though I was her mother, and I wished for her to have a bright future... I would not have her buried in the cold, dark soil. Prior to her funeral, I arranged for a fake burial. Afterward, I brought her body to Abyss, where I would sometimes visit her. I never thought that anyone-especially Aaron-would find her. I did not expect for such a tragedy to ensue...
Barney: Boss, there's something you gotta tell me. Was Aaron really just using us all that time?
Yuki: How should I know? I mean, he always acted that way around me-like we were a means to an end. But the church records indicate he founded our group 15 years ago. He mentioned he found Siri 10 years ago, so it seems he really did mean well, at first...
Harriet: What's done is done. He's gone, and we're here. That's what matters now.
Cece: You're always so quick to adapt to change, Harriet. I should follow your example.
Yuki: Heh, yeah, you always get to the heart of things quickly. Right, then. I've got a lot to take care of now. I need to fill the church in on all the details about how things actually played out. And with my people freed from the monastery prison, they'll need to be accounted for.
Harriet: Good luck with that whole mess. I'll be rooting for you from afar.
Cece: Surely you'll let us know if there is any way at all we can help. We'd be just thrilled.
Barney: Hell, if you want, your people can be my people. I could use some good mercenaries to watch my back.
Yuki: Enough already. I get it.
Harriet: It's no less than you deserve.
Cece: What you have sown, now you shall reap!
Barney: You made your bed, now shut up about it, pal.
Harriet: Heh... Anyway, what do you figure will happen to Abyss? The church will want to step in, no doubt.
Yuki: You got me. After everything that's happened, thing's can't stay the same. The church will probably assign an official to oversee things. Hopefully whoever they choose knows how to get along with Abyssians well.
Barney: Let's worry about all that some other time, yeah? I could really use a tall drink and a long sleep.
Harriet: I'm with you. I hurt in places I didn't even know could hurt.
Cece: It has been a terribly long night, indeed. One I won't ever forget.
(The Four turn and look up at the sun shining through the cathedral windows)
Yuki: A terribly long night, but a beautiful morning, haha.(Their guardians smile, knowing all is well. As everyone heads back up to the surface, cheers and celebration ring all around as everyone reunites)
Alexander(singing): This could be a happy ending, perfect place to stop the show. Our heroes, after all, have got about as far as they could go. But I'm sure that some more intriguing has up and crossed your mind. What more could we at Bravesword expect, than what we've already found...?
Yuki: Wow, this is interesting. All this nauseating talk of "Together, we are more! United, we are strong!" It really does bring out the worst in me. You know, I've been thinking. Why am I even working for someone as blind as Madame Richardson? There are other, far more interesting people that have caught your attention. And to mark this very special occasion, we've planned a special tribute to the most powerful super-being ever to walk these halls. A woman who has the most powerful group of mercenaries ever, including a truly gifted person... Me!(He reveals himself as Venator, and with his gravity powers, lifts up the other members of the Forgotten Four, as well as their guardians. Then, the other Prowlers trap all but Elena, Harold, and Jacob-whom they KO. Jaxx slowly realizes what's happening, as Sarina, now with a mask and a primarily brown dress with touches of purple and gold.)
Jaxx: Oh, no, no, no!
Sarina: Oh, yes, yes, yes! Gentlemen, go down and collect our payment for all this trouble.
Omega Sprite: What about the rest of these losers?
Sarina: Tie 'em up. Cast 'em off. And send these seven boneheads to my more personal dungeons...!
Venator: Glady, Mistress.