Tales of the Cosmic Wars Vol 2: A Star's Twilight

by Darth Necron

The second volume of the tale of Ben Auro as he joins with hero's like Mario, Sonic, Link, Samus Aran, Megaman X, Master Chief, Cloud and more to defeat the many groups of evil that threaten the cosmos. The more Ben fights, the more he faces the horrors of war, from the likes of Bowser, Ganondorf, Sephiroth, Sigma, Xemnas and more, to the darkness within. Character guide added!

38. C 93: Brave Vesperia's attack!

Tales of the Cosmic Wars

Chapter 97: Brave Vesperia's, "and friends" assault! Layers of Ambition.

Last time in Tales of the Cosmic wars Ben the Enji and Yuri's gang were once more in a tense situation. In order to leave the shrine of Baction they had to get through all of the fighters Alexei had brought to crush them first, and they were the mad assassin with a unnatural obsession with Yuri named Zagi. The ruthless and odd speaking leader of the Leviathans Claw Guild Yeager and his men, and Captain Schwann the man Brave Vesperia knew has Raven before they realized he was a double agent working behind their backs the whole time! However despite being outnumbered, are heroes have been in tighter spots and both Zagi and Yeager were easy enough to get out of the way even with the henchmen.

Yuri and his alleys were having a tougher time against the powerful skills of the Imperial Knight, especially because they were still upset about his treachery.

However, when Ben and the others joined the fight and it was clear that Schwann was fighting a losing battle the truth about his reasons to fight were revealed.

It seemed that Schwann/ Raven nearly died ten years ago in the planets last war and Alexei had his heart replaced with a Hermes Blastia, to have him live on as his tool. Schwann was ready to die to atone for betraying them, and with the shrine rigged to blow thanks to the back stabbing Commandant it seemed like he was going to get his wish! However, as Geno-Wyrmmon bailed everyone out Ben seemed to once more show his improvement by blowing a way out for his friends and then saving Raven before the shrine caved in! It seemed the kooky man had a change of heart when he vowed to only fight for his true friends, and after giving him his punishment for breaking his Guilds rules the group met up with Luke, Cecil, Flynn and their fellow squad members to regroup to plan an attack to free Estelle from her captors!

It was not going to be a slice of pie though; because the dark wizard Agahnim made it quite clear he did not want anyone disturbing his ritual when he summoned many monsters Link had previous destroyed in his many dungeon runs to keep unwanted guests out!

Still, even this was not enough to match the combined resolve of are hero's and Ben showed he would not let anything thrown in his way stop him when he over powered and destroyed the mobile Fortress Heracles with a powerful Shinryukenha!

Soon enough the warriors of light and there comrades made it to the top of the castle to rescue Estelle.

However, it was clear it would be no easy task when Alexei showed of just how powerful his systems control on the Child of the Full Moon was when he forced her body to attack her friends! And since everyone was unwilling to no one wanting to kill her, this was a effective enough stall tactic to give the bad guys what they really wanted, to use her power to a even bigger and imposing shrine then were the Enji last where, the Enduring Shrine of Zaude!

With his goals almost completed the traitor warped to the shrine while Agahnim stayed to insure the demise of the hero's! However, while Yuri was almost ready to grant Estelle's with of not being able to hurt anymore people by killing her, Ben snapped him out of it and together they were able to at last bring her back to normal thanks to the combined power of Ben's Star Sword and the powers of the sword Yuri got from the mysterious Duke, Dein Nomos. With the pink haired women no longer in danger only a furious Agahnim remained to be dealt with. However despite his improved magical wrath he was no matched for the fighters of justice's might and was once again killed.

Now with Yuri's friends all back on his side it seems him and the otherworldly hero's can settle things with Alexei.

However, can they reach him in time before he unleashes the true power he has long sought, even when they don't know just what it is? And even with Agahnim once again listed as deceased, its unknown if his master are that far away!

Just what is in store for Ben? Time to find out, so let's begin!

---

Are newest chapter begins in the Zaphas castle a little while after the recent battle. Squad 7 is going over the outcome of the battle with the other two squads and Flynn and after going over all the events they are trying to find out just what is the Shrine of Zaude. After Guy was describing how he managed to distract Volvagia long enough for the others to land killer blows.

After making sure all the hostiles were driven out and that there was no more reason to be on high alert are hero's are ready to figure out there next move. Both Princess Zelda and King Dedede have entered the throne room to take part in the discussion along with Prince Loder. After everyone that needs to be there is there Zelda says," Estelle, I am glad to see your ok. I never imagined that Alexei would be plotting such a vile scam, and with Ganondorf's minions no less!"

Loder reacts with a disturbed,"Yes, I don't think anyone thought he was behind all the recent troubles. He had always been the ideal warrior ever since the war ten years ago. Many countless warriors looked up to him as the prestige image of a warrior of virtue. "

Ben sighs and says,"That's irony for you, it was only weeks ago that the son of the leader of the Enji, Kira Myers pulled of a similar stunt. He made everyone think he was going to end the war with some great plan. But in the end his true plans consisted of using me as a tool by driving me insane, try to wipe out the Enji Knights, and plan to take over and make himself Supreme King of the Lylat Kingdom. All for some twisted ideal. Luckily we were able to kick him out, just as we will soon kick Alexei to the ground and force him to stay there!"

Yuri just chuckles and says," All these people who talk about creating a paradise are fool of it. It may entice lots of people but it just goes over my head. I know that there will never be paradise; you just have to enjoy what you get."

Ben then looks in the sky and says,"Well, can't say I agree entirely with your outlook, but you're on to something there Yuri. Now, anyone figure out what mister red coat is wearing so we can go and smash it?"

Judith then walks in to the center and says," While you all were finishing things up I tried to contact Phaeroh, and I was successful. He was brief, and informed me that the Shrine of Zaude is a place that neither the humans nor the Entelexeia should disturb."

Raven just sighs and says," That sounds like a good sigh, if you like having things get worse that is."

Jade then adds," No doubt Alexei seeks to draw whatever power is in there to use to his advantage, and what is more is now that he knows the pressure is on he will act even more desperately."

Cloud then says," In that case we should prepare to make a full out assault on the shrine. He may be expecting it but its better then wasting more time for him to make things worse."

Yuri then looks deadly serious as he adds a solemn,"That's a given, this time he won't get away. He spent a long time going through the trouble of raising his grave from the sea, but since he hurt so many people to make things that way I will make sure that he won't change his mind!"

Flynn just sighs and reacts with,"You never change Yuri. I know from that look nothing will stop you from going after him, and at this point I can't blame you. I want him to answer for his crimes as well. That is why I insist I and my elite troops take part in the attack."

Cecil nods and says," The more the merrier."

Estelle looks happy and reacts with a cheerful," With all of you working together, I am sure we will stop Alexei once and for all? "

Tear then looks at the pink haired princess and says," Estelle, are you sure your back to normal? If you join us he might try to take control of your body once more."

Rita then looks happy and says," Don't worry, it took us all night, but I was able to recreate a system based on her powers and Dein Nomos to insure she never again will create a imbalance of Aer."

Everyone looks at her and Kirby says," You really were able to fix the princess? She does not look any different."

Rita then laughs and says,"Maybe not to the untrained eye but I assure you my formula was a complete success! You see, it was a simple matter of isolating the problematic values."

She then goes off a rant about the scientific details; however, nearly everyone has no idea what she is talking about. After hearing nearly nothing understandable for another minute Ben inches over to Yuri and says,"Um, does this come with a translation?"

Yuri just says," Don't feel bad, she always goes in to her own world with this stuff. Huh, er, uh oh."

Both Ben and Yuri turn back, to see a fire ball heading there way and they both dodge just in time to avoid it, and it blasts poor Karol once again! As Karol runs to find some water Rita looks furious and has another fireball in his hand as she says," Quiet! None of you brain-dead idiots can truly understand what I am talking about so be quit!"

Jade then looks smug and says,"Yes, well while I have no doubt you are confidant in your skills I think someone who has a greater area of knowledge, like me should make sure it's truly working."

Rita then looks outraged as she shouts out," Oh, so you think you know more than me four eyes!?"

Ben, Guy and Luke all look nervous and Guy says,"Um, you might want to calm down. After all, you may be a genius but Jade has made quite the name for himself. "

Rita then says," Quite, no way I am going to let you Enji act all smug on me!"

Rita then blasts a fire ball at them but Jade just appears and catches it, as a even bigger one forms in his other hand as he says,"

Easy now, I would hate to show a pompous brat why I got the name Jade the Necromancer."

Seeing things are about to get really ugly a nervous Estelle gets in between the two and says," Oh don't worry mister Jade, Rita is just protective of me. Don't worry Rita; it can't hurt to make sure there is nothing wrong."

Ben then sighs and says," Well, if we know what we are doing then it would be a good idea to hurry up and get ready so I can end this mission before dinner time."

With that his friends nod and they all get ready to shut Alexei down.

---

And as the plan to do such a thing, the former Commandant is planning to bring forth his master plan before that happens! As soon as he arrived he ordered his remaining Royal Guards to the shrine along with the members of Leviathans Claw that he commands and went right to the main chamber of the thousand year old structure! After looking at the chamber he laughs madly and says," Yes, YES! It's all like the tablets described! It was worth it to get the help of the Zannacross Empire. For after all these years my long efforts will pay off! So, the greatest power will be mine! Huh, what is this energy? What, this darkness. So you managed to avoid death after all Agahnim?"

He then hears a deep laugh that seems to be coming from every direction as the room seems to be filled with darkness and the voice booms out,"No, Agahnim is once more dead. A pity you can't remember the one who went out of all this way to give you the power you needed Alexei. If you wish to survive the new order, you will have to work on your memory!"

Alexei then has his eyes widen and says,"It's you, you came all the way here lord Ganondorf?"

He gets his responds when a surge of magic energy takes shape in front of him, and forms a glowing shape of the king of evil's face! He looks down on Alexei and at once he sees the man bow before Ganondorf chuckles and says," I am pleased to see you were able to raise this shrine of Zaude, even at the cost of Agahnim. Still, I am pleased to see even with the Enji, Link and those persistent mortals on your tale you still managed to get this far. If you can go through with the next phase of the plan, and activate the true function of this shrine, then we will both get what we desire."

Alexei smirks and reacts with a smooth," It will not be long. Soon enough I will decode the scriptures and gladly fulfill your wish lord Ganondorf. But, those wretched Enji along with that pesky Yuri Lowell are no doubt at this very moment racing here to try and stop us. And, to be honest, I am not sure my men and the forces of that clown Yeager combined will be enough to stop them. Especially that Ben Auro, his powers are quite, above mine sadly."

Ganondorf laughs before his projection takes the form of his full body and he clutches his hand and chuckles and says,"Bah, that idol of the light is nothing more than a tainted naïve fool. He was too weak to resist the dark side and only kept his sanity thanks to his feeble friends. However, such a weak minded hero like him will never be able to challenge me, especially once I, I me we gain this power! I have no time to send any more then my minor minions to aid you.

My elite servants, are all busy with their assignments lately. You must prove yourself worthy to me and hold them off. I don't expect you to win, just don't lose till you can unlock the power of this structure. Once you do, I shawl take care of the rest.'

Alexei then nods before he responds with a rigid," It will be done, with the Cursed Seal Crystals you gave me, I might be able to crush them before the process is completed!"

Ganondorf looks annoyed and says," Don't underestimate the welder of the Star Sword, his friends and Link! As pathetically naïve as they are, they do know how to fight and will destroy the likes of you with ease if you give them the chance. Now, the new era is within are grasps Alexei. You did well to come this far, don't make now the time to fail my expectations! Hahahaah!"

With that the Inquisitor of the Zannacross Empire gives of his classic evil laugh before his image fades. Alexei then just turns to the shrine's central controls and sneers before he utters a cold," He may think of me as his pawn, but I will show him that I am his equal, or maybe even more! All of those that hound after me cannot keep me from my rightful place. Now, it's time to set the stage!"

With that he presses a button, and it causes the giant blue crystal above him to glow!

---

Soon a large trembling can be heard, and even from the outside the shrine can be seen to glow! Little does Alexei know though, that two people are all ready witnessing this! However it's not are heroes, but the mysterious Duke and his ally, the dragon/turkey Entelexeia named Phaeroh who previous condemned Estelle as the poison of the world and tried to kill her before Judith was able to convince him to give her and Brave Vesperia a chance to show him that they can change her fate. Duke sees the light glow brighter and says," That fool, so he really brought out the enduring Shrine of Zaude , and he likely has no idea what activating its true function will do. Once more, the foolishness of man will swallow up everyone in despair thanks to blind arrogance and greed. It may have been foolish to give Yuri Dein Nomos after all."

His monster ally talks to him telepathy and says,"Bah, no matter how much time in the pasts humans unleash disaster they will never learn from their mistakes, and just make them over and over again! It was foolish of you to think just because those people from another world descended. It does not matter what world they are from, a greedy human is a greedy human! And from the amount of darkness I sensed from those aiding that damn Alexei, I would say it just made things worse!"

Duke then casually turns to the left and sees the Neo High-wind, the other Lylat warships, Flynn's boat and the dragon that serves as transport for Brave Vesperia Ba'ul all coming in the distance and says," It would seem I made a mistake in testing the potential of beings from other worlds. Still, do what you must Phaeroh to slow the process down."

The winged being nods and says," I'll try and divert the energy to insure it is not able to complete its charge. After all this time, the calamity will not return!"

With that the being roars before charging at the shrine. Duke sees the good guys armada get closer and he says,"Yuri Lowell, it seems you truly are obvious to the nature of your kind. For far too long are race as had a legacy of tragic events. If even with those Enji you cannot change are nature, then purpose there is no future for are kind, regardless of the world. This is your last chance, to show me what your united hearts can truly bring forth, for I am tired of letting you fools destroying this world!"

---

With that he vanish in a flash of magic energy, just as Yuri and Ben happen to be entering the docking bay of the air ship! Seeing his friends on board there trusted dragon lift Flynn Link and Cloud then step out as Ben says," What is it Yuri? You look like you seen something?"

Yuri just shakes his head and responds with a detached," Oh nothing, just the wind. "

Flynn just sighs and grumbles out a flustered,"You always did just drift of when you were being told orders in the knights."

Yuri looks annoyed and lashes back with," Do me a favor and spare me and everyone the stories? I admit it; I don't care about the bigger picture much. I just see what is in front of me and do what I know is the right path. "

Cloud then looks amused and says," If you can only see what is in front of you , you just might be obvious of the curve balls life throws at you."

Yuri chuckles and reacts with a firm," Maybe, but my policy is to take things as they come."

Ben looks amused and adds," I bet you would never have thought that living like that would get you to teaming up with intergalactic warriors of justice to save your world from a crazy nut job who is trying to unseal something that just might give him the power to rule the world huh? Or did you have high hopes when you kidnapped Estelle?"

Yuri looks defensive and says," Hey, I told you she begged me to take her out of the castle so she could find Flynn! Seriously, I just got myself arrested in to the castle to catch the punk theft who stole the Aqua Blastia in the lower Quarter!"

Ben smirks and says," You really are mister Robin Hood Yuri. Pardon my asking, but just how did you learn your fighting skills? Those, rather fancy moves you use are not something you see your average swordsmen pull off. Your father or relative train you in some secret forbidden fighting style? You really have super powers in order to save mankind? "

Yuri just laughs and says," Hardly anything like that. I don't have any fancy hidden powers besides this common Blastia, and I don't really have any secret tragic history unless you count my parents dying when I was young do to disease. When it comes down to it, I am just a guy who likes to find his own purpose, does things his own way, and won't stand for punks mistreating people, no matter what or who they are."

Doug looks impressed before he nods," Hell yah man. Nothing wrong with just becoming hardcore because you want to. "

Flynn sighs and says," Oh Yuri, some things never change. I always admired how selfless you are but still, at this rate you will never be seen in the public eyes as anything but a criminal and I will somehow take the credit, just like for rescuing lady Estelle even when I did nothing but manage the attack! But more importantly, you can't forget that despite all the good you have done, the crimes you have committed can't be ignored by me. Some day you will have to pay the price for living how you do my friend. "

Yuri then says," I told you, I don't care about glory, do you need a reason to help people? And like I said, ill take what ever life throws at me."

Ben just looks at the shrine and says" Heh, Zidane would like the attitude. You're definitely an interesting guy Yuri Lowell. Even I can't say I have your steady mind on values. "

Doug then gives a half lopped smile before he adds," Ah, it's still an awesome outlook, like mine! All right, looks like we are about ready to board the new tourist attraction Alexei spent so much time getting ready to open!"

Everyone then gets serious and Yuri says,"All right, it's time to wrap up this mess and bring things back to normal. "

Ben nods and adds a resolute," Its time Alexei learns what it means to get on the bad side of the Enji Knights! Let's go! Huh, looks like he wants to make the first move!" Hang on!"

Everyone then sees a barrage of energy blasts break out of the shrine and hit the airship! The craft's shield is able to block it, but it still shakes the Neo-High Wind.

Cloud then says," Damn, it looks like he is going to make this a bumpy ride as he can for us. Heh, to bad for him Cid is not one to take cold receptions lying down. Get ready for a sudden landing guys!"

Sure enough, as if on cue, it seems Cloud was spot on about his long time friend because right after the ship got hit a angry Cid sets his sights on the shrine and says," You think I am scared of your pod shots? I'll show you what real artillery is son! Get ready to fire the "Tannhäuser" Positron cannon! "

With that the top of the ship opens up to have a giant cannon open up, and after dodging another massive explosive energy sphere it fires of a massive energy blast right at the shrine and causes a giant explosion! As everyone shields their eyes from the light James says,"Well, this is one way to quickly resolve the crises. Huh? Well, maybe not."

Everyone is disappointed to see the barrier around the shrine still standing!

Yuri then snickers before he says," Looks like it might be tougher to kick him of ledge then I figured. Huh, what is that? Hey, I know that cry, Phaeroh? "

Sure enough Yuri and the others see the flying Entelexeia charging at the shrine and dodging the blasts being sent his way! He then fly's to right above the shrine, and seems to flap his wings at an extremely fast rate! Ben and the others quickly see this is not just for show, as this apparent sonic vibration seems to cause the barrier to flicker, before it falls down! From on Ba'ul Judith sees this and says," Phaeroh, he must not want to Alexei to achieve his goals either! He is using his power to absorb aer to lower the barrier? But, what is he planning on doing?"

Everyone then sees the winged talking beast try to drawl in energy from the large crystal on top, and at first it seems like this Entelexeia knows what he is doing as the crystal stops glowing. However, the brief moment of hope turns to dread when a rumbling is heard, and a lightning bolt strikes down from the sky and blasts Phaeroh down!

Ben then says," Well, so much for the Calvary. Still, it seems like that gave us some time. Best not to waste it, we should move in now!"

Cloud nods and says," Get ready, it's time to finish this mission. "

With that Cid fly's' the ship nearly directly over the shrine and Squad 7, Link, Kirby, Yuri and Flynn all jump off and land. Yuri's pals then land on the boat attached to their dragon friends while the other Enji also land around the shrine. It only takes a second for the hero's to hear lots of yelling and see many of Alexei's Royal guards race out of the main gates and Ben gets agitated at this sight before he says," Well, this is where theses idiots carriers come to a end unless they choose now to get common sense."

Yuri then adds," I know the knights are supposed to be loyal, but come on! Both the Schwann and Flynn brigades have left him, can't they see that they are doing nothing but serving a traitor?"

Raven then sighs and answers Yuri with a glum," It does not matter what you say to these guys; they will serve Alexei to the end. Many of these guys are the same guys who fought with him in the Great War. They most likely are caught up in old white hairs charisma and ideals."

Ben sighs and says," Well, at least they are not an army of secret genetic clones created to destroy us. In fact, with this, "Antique" gear and little power it's more of a slather then anything."

Doug powers up and throws out a brash,"Well, sorry bucket heads but we are running a tight schedule so this will have to be a swift first round if I have anything to say about it! Thousand Steel Hurricane Kicks!"

With this Doug unleashes a barrage of kicks that are so fast even his fellow hero's can't see the kicks! But the first waves of guards definitely feel them as they are kicked so hard they are blasted through the shrine's front gates! As Doug lands Yuri chuckles and says,"Nice kick. Well, now that they know we are here no point in knocking so let's just go all out and end this as soon as possible."

Estelle then looks determined and says," Yes, I would like to end this conflict with as little bloodshed as possible. "

With this Ben takes out his Star Sword and in dramatic fashion and quips a vigorous,"All right, time to vanquish evil from this world at last! Ready everyone? Charge!"

Yuri rolls his eyes and says,"Wow, you really are pushing the Knight in shining armor role even more then Flynn."

Ben winces and then says," Bah, just making sure the bad guys know they are screwed."

Hiryuumon reacts to this with a chuckle and," Heh, don't worry boss you looked good while doing it!"

Flynn then thinks about what Yuri said and says," Hey! And just what are you implying about Yuri?"

His subordinate Sodai looks even more annoyed and says,"That is right, how dare you disrespect the new Commandant of the Empire when you're still just a lowly criminal! "

Yuri just looks nervous and says,"Hey, is that Alexei in there? Come on lets go Brave Vesperia!"

With that everyone enters the shrine, cutting and bashing the obstacles that get in there way.

---

They find more knights, and various monsters that appear to have been lurking in the shrine for a while. After clearing many rooms of this water filled shrine the squad of hero's enter a large room filled with statues and many doors and Kirby moans before saying," Oh no, not one of these rooms again! Why do the bad guys always hang out in such confusing rooms? Ah, and there are icky skeletons all around to!"

Link sighs and reacts with," They set up such irritating décor to stall us, and sadly it's an effective tactic. And I doubt it will be easy to find the map and compass to this dungeon as well. I knew I should have brought my iron boots and Zora tunic along."

Ben shrugs to this before he throws out a confident," It should be a simple matter of just sensing the largest power level, but I can't seem to get a grip on any magical energies."

Jade then eyes the area carefully before he says,"Whatever process Alexei is doing must be causing the magical particles in here to be frantic. Guess we will just have to split up."

Ben looks uneasy as he reacts with," Well, normally splitting up always leads to bad things. However, Alexei is not to much a threat so it's ok I guess. "

Guy, Karol and a few others then look around and Guy says,"That's true. Heh, and as a bonus I will be able to check out this shrine. The statues, look unique."

Link then looks at the status and says," Hey wait, I seen theses statues before. Oh no, don't touch them!"

Karol sadly has already touched the shorter one and says," How come Link? Hey, why you bump me James?"

James winces before he adds," That was not me."

Karol then turns pale before he says," What? But , you're the only one who was close enough. Unless it was the, AH!"

Karol feels a vibration, looks at the statue, and sees its eyes are glowing red before he jumps of it in a panic! Sure enough its clear theses are no statues, they are more classic Zelda monsters the Armos! Sure enough the rest of the statues shake to show they are the Iron Knuckles and Dark-Nut Knight monsters! If that was not bad enough the skeletons come alive and turn in to Stafos grunts! Seeing all theses monsters Ben powers up and says," Looks like Alexei got extra monster pals from whatever servant of Ganondorf we did not kill yet."

Yuri just says," I don't care how ugly they are; ill still cut them all down!"

Kain then readies his spear and says," They look like nothing but cannon fodder, a swift strike will likely be the end of it. What the, where did that shadow come from?"

Cecil then says," Kain above you!"The dragoon hears a noise from above him and sees a giant demonic hand fall on him! As it in a flash warps Kain out of the room Link sighs and says," Oh great, even those infernal wall masters are here! Careful everyone, if those things get a grip on you they can warp you miles away. Sigh, I had to go through so much bloody backtracking because of them."

Rita then grins before she adds," No sweet, I will just blast them all before they can get a chance! Meteor Storm!"

With that Rita unleashes a devastating high class magic spell and bombards the room with energy meteors to destroy all the monsters, and most of the walls!

As Rita takes a deep breath she says,"All right, this room is clear. "

Cecil just sighs and says,"Hopefully Kain was not dragged to far from those things. I guess we just got another reason to split up. I will take the left pathway."

Luke then says," All right, we will take the central path. Hey, where did Guy go?"

Jade then sighs and mutters a vexed," I do remember seeing Guy be taken by surprise by one of those demon hands."

Luke just sighs and reacts with a pained," Great, now we have to look for him to."

Tear tries to keep her composer as she flicks some hair out of her face and coolly says," Just be careful and don't be an idiot so we don't have to look for you to."

Luke then smiles and says,"Right. All right, good luck guys. "

With that the two other squads head out, and Squad 7, Brave Vesperia and company quickly move forward down the central path.

---

After clearing a few floors of both monsters and royal guards they enter a large dome like area with a pool around it. Estelle then looks around and says," Wow, this place is beautiful!"

James takes a look and grins before he says," Yes, it's hard to believe we are inside a weapon. However, appearances are deceiving. And speaking of deceiving, it seems someone is trying to deceive us this very moment."

All of a sudden Repede sniffs something and growls in the north direction before Yuri shouts out a vicious," Get out here, your too old to play hide and seek." All of a sudden they hear a clapping and a voice emit a theatrical ,"Bravo, bravo my lad!"

Then from out of one of the pillars comes out Yeager! Ben is shocked to see he is still standing and says," Hey! Didn't I uppercut you and your tasteless accent out of the last shrine?"

Yeager chuckles and says," Oh you did mister Enji. Too bad for you I am quick to recover, and quick to move! Still, I must say your powers are splendid! Such keen intuition, such sharp instincts! Simply splendid!"

Yuri then looks annoyed and says," Yeager, what is it this time? Come to bug us, or are you going to kindly lead us to Alexei?"

Yeager has a twisted grin form on his face as he responds with a wry," Ja, oh ja. I will show you the way. To hell that is!"

He then takes out his scythe and Raven says," Just which way is the wind blowing with this guy anyway? "

Yeager quickly answers with a snide," Have you forgotten my pretties? We are still sworn enemies you know. Things were destined to end this way between us."

Karol then tenses up before he says," Is this another trap? "

Flynn cringes before he answers with," A rather obvious trap, more like a stalling tactic by Alexei."

Yuri narrows his eyes before he grinds out a harsh," It's just like you said, we are enemies. So let's do what enemies do!"

Yeager then has energy form around his weapon and he says," You are correct, come!"

Yuri then takes out his sword and shouts out a eager," Bring it!"

Ben powers up his magic energy and eyes Yeager carefully,"You really are crazy because you seem to be forgetting that I one shot you before and this time we are even more in a hurry then before!"

Yeager has a glimmer of madness form in his eyes before he counters with," Maybe lad, but I did not show you all I could do before! However this time, I'll put out all the stops! And, I brought my best "associates" to insure your demise! Come my friends!"

With this Yeager snaps his fingers and more of his red lenses wearing assassins jump out of the shadows! But what is more is that two girls jump to Yeager's side. They are both wearing some sort of outfit that nearly looks like school uniforms! Yuri rolls his eyes and says," You call forcing your two loli girls to fight with you pulling out the stops?"

The green haired girl then gets mad and says," Hey, how dare you disrespect master Yeager! My name is Droite!"

Her red haired partner then takes out a short sword and says,"And I am Gauche! We are Master Yeager's top assassin! And now we are going to make sure today he gets what he wants!"

Cloud then says," Enough, lets end this quickly Squad 7." They nod, and the battle begins with both sides charging at each other! Yuri starts the fight by saying," I don't care what your angle is. You caused the Don's death even though you are a part of the Guild Union and I won't let you get away with it! Ghost Wolf!"

In a flash Yuri appears behind Yeager and tries to slice in to him, but Yeager easley blocks with his Scythe and says,"Now then, terribly sorry but friendship does not last an eternity! Don Whitehorse was an admiral leader, but business before pleasure!"

He then tries to blast Yuri with the plasma rifle on the other side of his scythe but Yuri is able to dodge it. Yeager quickly goes to blast another round of energy blasts but is not expecting Estelle to get between them and nullify the blasts with a magic barrier! She then says,"If the Guilds could work together and unite with the Empire it would do so much good for the people of this world!"

Yeager laughs and retorts with a spiteful," Now that is a fantasy. Have you not figured it out that any hopes of all the people truly uniting is a joke! And that is why this silly Lylat Kingdom is even more of a riot! People will never be able to set aside their differences. It's ever man for himself Ja! Sticking to such hopes just leads to a painful death! The path to happiness is to make the best path for yourself. And I have found my own happiness, by insuring as many people buy my pretty weapons as possible! So what if it leads to war? It's always more exciting this way!"

Cloud then gets mad and says," You're nothing more than an arms dealer who sees life's as meaningless and thinks of nothing to spread war for profit! You won't get away any longer."

Yuri nods and says," He is right, let's end this here!"

Yeager then jumps high in the air and says," Very well, feel the simony of my attack! Showtime! "

He then fires a barrage of energy blasts but most of them are easily defected in to the walls by the sword users! Rita then charges up a spell and says," I had enough of you causing us pain! No way are we going to lose to someone as evil and creepy as you! Spiral Flare!"

With that she fires a powerful blast of fire to charge right at him, only for him to slash it in half with his scythe! However with his focus on neglecting the spell he fails to see Doug warp above him as he says," You think your special but you're really just a dime a dozen in the wicked bank of wackos! And now it's time to throw you in the hells vault! Hammer of Might!"

Doug then unleashes a powerful punch to the blue business wearing suits back, and slams him hard to the ground! Ben is ready for this and winds up a kick to add more pain to the combo and sends Yeager hard to the left!

Cloud then flash steps to get in front of Yeager and says," Time you pay the price of treating life's so lightly! Climhazzerd!"

With this Cloud hits Yeager hard with his limit break attack and after inflecting some damage launches him in to the air, where the all ready digvolved Wyrmmon is waiting!

He then says," We all ready have some ware to be so time for you to be toast! Magma Cyclone!"

With that the Champion level digimon unleashes a powerful stream of fire that consumes the man with fire! However the attack is quickly blown out and them an reappears while looking insane!

Yuri then says," Give it up Yeager! You're through!"

Yeager just gives his adversary a sly look and then says," Well aren't you something? I suppose it's time to reveal my true power!"

Ben sighs and reacts with a dry," Whatever just make it quick. Huh, what is he doing? "

Everyone sees Yeager grasp his chest before a large red light shines out of his chest! Everyone then sees a red orb coming right out of his chest and a shocked Raven says,"So, he is living through a Hermes Blastia like me? Alexei got to him to eh?"

Estelle then says,"He really is like Raven? Does that mean he is even more powerful than we thought? "

Yuri looks unimpressed and says," He is just showing off! "

Raven then throws in," Careful, if he tries to use it like that at full power, it could go unstable and this shrine could get a little lighter!"

Yeager then says," I will send anyone who gazes on this to the deepest abyss!"

Ben then says," I don't think so Yeager! Your little revelation does not change your swift trip through the floor!"

Yeager just charges at the hero's while saying,"Hurry up and yield to me! Once I defeat all of you this battle with you will make my art a legend! Now, have a taste of my true greatness!"

Yuri then charges at the purple haired foe only for Yeager to vanish before reappearing and slashing Yuri in the back! An instant later his Scythe transforms in to a gun and a large amount of magic energy surges out of his Blastia heart and he says," Time to say by by! Caress of Death!"

Everyone is alarmed as a massive red energy blast breaks out and heads right for Yuri!

Yuri sees the blast crashing towards him fast and says," Damn, not enough time. Huh?

"He then sees Ben warp in front of the blast and catches it with his hands! He then has his aura explode before he kicks it in to the ceiling where it continues to go through more floors before everyone hears an explosion.

Yeager then says," Oh, you Enji are such spoilsports!"

Ben then stares at Yeager and says,"You're not going to win no matter what your heart is made of, even though it's pure darkness anyway."

Yeager then sprouts a look of mocking pain as he says," Oh I am so insulted my lad! I feel so hurt, that I will make you pay with your life!"

---

With that the fight between Yeager and his opponents resumes and he gets even more frantic in his attacks. Meanwhile as the group has been dancing with Yeager Link Kirby and Flynn have been taking care of his henchmen and at the moment are trying to warp that up. However the three are finding more difficulty with his two lady friends Gauche and Droite are more powerful then there young frail figures might seem and are keeping the heroic trio on edge! Being both quick with their blades and decent magic uses they have been keeping the boys on their toes when Droite sees Link's sword coming for her and says," Sorry hat boy, buy your way to slow! Oh what a shock, and so is this! Thunder Blade!"

With that she dodges Link's thrust, jumps on Kirby as he swings his hammer and uses him as a stepping stone, and then fires a large blade of lighting in the center of the hero's, and before they can react they are all zapped hard! Gauche then laughs and says," What is the matter boys? Feeling the heat? I'll be nice and cool you off! Glacier Thorn!"

With that she taps the ground with her foot and it causes a frigid ice barge to form and freeze the three just as they were getting over the last attack! They both laugh and Droite says," That will teach you idiots to try and mess up master Yeager's plans!"

Her partner laughs and throws out a sassy," That is right! Thanks to him Leviathan's claw will be the number one Guild in the world, maybe even the galaxy! Huh? Oh no!"

They are shocked to see the ice melt, before it shatters and Kirby appears in front with his head on fire, which is appropriate since he changed to his fire power to melt him and his pals out of there! He looks at the two female bad guys and says," You two girls are mean! Didn't your parents ever tell you it's not nice to freeze people?"

Gauche then says,"For your information you self righteous oversized marshmallow are parents died in the Great War and it was master Yeager who took us in and raised us! We won't let you interfere, ill turn you in to our new pincushion!"

As Kirby looks offended Flynn steps in front of his comrades and says," I am sorry to hear about your sad past. But it does not excuse you, Yeager, or Alexei's crimes against both the Empire and the Guild Union, and maybe even the Lylat Kingdom to. This madness must end!"

The girls giggle and Gauche says Oh the great Capitan Flynn is so serious like always. However you're not shutting this party down!"

They both charge with their swords and Flynn says," I will do what I must; I can no longer afford to hold anything back! Holy Lance!"

With that he unleashes his full power and his magic energy flares up with a white color before he points his sword at the two charging ladies and fires a powerful energy lance of light energy right at them! Not expecting this attack they both try to dodge it but are not able to escape the following explosion and are blown in to the air! An angry Droite pouts in midair and says," And when does a noble knight like you attack like that? Why I ought to, what the, where did he go? AH!"

She and her partner are shocked to see Flynn as warped to above her and he says," Sorry, but I must focus my attention to more important issues so this will be the end. Beast!"

With that he unleashes a powerful energy channeled blow from his free hand and hits its target right in the chest and sends her crashing in to the water outside the area!

Flynn turns to Gauche and says," Don't worry I did not kill her, just knocked her out. Now then, if you want to settle this the nice way I would not mind."

She just gets mad and says," You think you can beat me that easily? I'll show you! Spread Zero!"

She then casts a spell that seems to creates a barrage of dark energy icicles around her and hurls them at Flynn! However she was not expecting Kirby to jump in front of the guy who resembles Guy, switch to his Mirror power and takes out his newly metalized wand to catch the blast in a mirror!

He then says," Hey that's not nice lady! He was willing to be nice and then you went and tried to blast him! Well, right back at yah!"

He then unleashes the energy he caught in a powerful redirected blast with double its original power!

Gauche then says," What, no way! AH!"

She is hit dead on by the blast and is blown all the way in to the air but says," No, I won't fail master Yeager! I'll make you pay puff ball! Huh? "

She then sees Link has caught her leg with his claw shot and swiftly pulls her right up to him as he says,"Sorry, but this ends now!"

With that he hits her hard with the hilt of the Master Sword in the head and knocks her out! Link sighs at the site before he mutters a plane," Well, that is that."

Flynn nods and says," Nice work Link, Kirby. Now, let us hope Yuri Ben and the others have nearly worn down Yeager. Huh, look out!"

They then see a barrage of energy balls head there way and Kirby quickly once more uses his mirror power to protect them. With the distractions gone they once more return their attention to the center of the shrine, where they see everyone dealing with a now clearly insane Yeager's attacks!

---

Even the Enji can't seem to be able to down him due to the fear that if they hit his Blastia heart the wrong way it will cause their opponent to blow up! At the moment Yeager is firing energy blasts at everything in sight and Ben finds himself too busy defecting blasts to get close!

He then says," Good grief, this guy won't let up! If I could just have an opening I could just slash him to bits if I have to. But, I can't let anyone get hurt by him either.

"

Yeager then laughs and says," What is wrong Enji? Your job a little to complicated? Too bad, it's quite amusing! Now, it's time for the end of this show! Caress of Death!"

He once more powers up, jumps up in to the air, and once again unleashes his Mystic Art attack and fires another giant red blast at the group! However this time Yuri dashes underneath it and glares at his foe while saying," Yes, it's time to end this for good! The Enji may have caught your eye Yeager, but don't forget that you have to answer me! Divine Wolf Storm!"

With that Yuri dashes at lightning speed at Yeager and slashes at him so fast Yeager does not have time to fully dodge and is cut in the cheek! He then says," Come now, if you were so eager to die then just ask me! Huh, why you lousy mutt!"

He was about to blast Yuri when his dog sidekick slashed him with his Divine Dog attack and while Yeager blocked it the attack hit him back, and right in to a waiting Judith! She then charges at him with her spear and says," I cannot forgive you for all you have done. Even if you had to fallow Alexei, you must pay the price for the damage you helped inflicted on this world! Luna Storm!"

The blue haired female then unleashes a powerful kick that is fallowed with an energy charged slash that slashes him across the chest! He then laughs the pain of and says," Such determination. But don't you realize that it's useless, you won't be able to avoid the embrace of death! Guah!"

While he was talking Raven sneaked past his watch, and fired an arrow right at his Blastia! Raven then sees it spark and says," Hey now, we were both dead before and I found out what is worse than dying, dying alone and living without control of your destiny. Too bad you seemed to have all the wrong ideas Yeager because shows over! Fury Blast!"

With that Yeager fires another blast at Raven but he slides underneath it and fires a barrage of arrows all around his foe's Hermes Blastia! This is a crucial blow and Cloud says," That Raven, despite his fooling around his skills are no joke. Yeager is finished. Heh, did not even have to step in really. "

Yeager grasps his chest as it has sparks and blood break out of it and he falls to his knees as he says," Wundarbar, you have won. "

Raven grins and says, Hey, this old man has his time to shine to."

All of a sudden he turns real serious and walks up to Yeager while pointing his bow at him and saying," You know, I am not one really for vengeance and all. But, this is for the Don."

Ben walks up to them while still being alert and says," Be careful, he still might have a trick up his sleeve. Jerks like him always seem to want to go out with a bang."

Yeager laughs as he coughs up blood and says,"No no no, theses sleeves are empty. This is, Ja, this is it."

Estelle then says," Your chest, did Alexei do that to you as well?"

He gets on his feet and staggers back wars to the watery edge and says,"

Perhaps, but what is done is done Ja?"

Estelle then looks sadly at the assassin before she says,"Did you serve Alexei because like Raven he had your life in his grasp?"

Yeager just looks up and mutters," Really now dear, why you wasting time talking to your enemies when you have a world to save Ja? Really now, you women and your kindness, it's the most painful attack of all. Good bye."

With that Yeager's eyes go blank and he falls over, and if he was not dead then, when the water hits the damaged Blastia it causes an explosion, that happens to blast open the doors in front of them! Ben sighs and says," Guess he went with a bang after all."

Estelle then looks at his two knocked out lady friends and says," He was no doubt a terrible person. But maybe, he was not as pure evil as he put on for us. "

Cloud then sees all the dead men that were Yeager's men and says," it's nearly impossible for so many men to side with an evil mastermind even if they have overwhelming power. Usually it's the ideals and charisma that drawls them in."

Raven then says," It was almost like he thought dying was the easiest way to solve his problems. It's like how Alexei is able to keep the Royal guards to fallow him. He, huh?" He sees Yuri hold out his hand and says,"Spare me, the less I know about the twisted noble excuses of his the easier it is for me to cut him down."

Ben then says," Well, that is one way of making fighting simple. All right, now that we now seemed to have cleaned out all the other pieces, time to finally make the Check Mate, and hopefully before anything rather nasty is unleashed."

Yuri then grins before he says," Sounds good to me, let's go!"

---

With that everyone nods and dashes out of the room. It seems they are closer to their goal then they thought. Because after dealing with a few more rounds of monsters and stubborn guards, they find the largest most glamorous doors in the shrine yet, with a giant lock! Link sighs and says," Great, another boss key. I hope one of the other groups found the key."

Ben grins and reacts with a determined," Maybe they did. But lucky I have my own key to save time. Everyone stand back. Knock knock Alexei, we come to discuss negations, about cleaning your clock!"

With that Ben powers up and unleashes his power in the form of a powerful crescent energy sword wave, that is large enough to slice right through the doors! As they land in the water with a big splash Yuri chuckles and says," Well, that always works to. Let's finish this. "

They all enter, and walk through a giant bridge leading to an even larger platform surrounded by waterfalls and a terminal with green crystals, and surrounded by guards stands Alexei in the middle! As he presses buttons furiously he notices the footsteps and turns around before saying," Well well, everyone is hear. Welcome, to the very depths of the ocean. "

Estelle looks upset and says,"Its over Alexei. Don't add to your crimes any longer!"

Alexei does a mock bow and retorts with a theatrical,"Ah, Princess Estelle. How nice to see you up and about. Which tells me Yeager was completely useless."

Yuri just reacts with a blunt," He is dead."

Alexei looks annoyed and says," I thought surely he come through in the end. But oh how I was mistaken."

Judith then points her spear at him and says," Is toying with the destinies of others how you have your fun?"

Flynn then shouts out a furious,"Alexei! What happened to the ideals you once held? What changed?"

Yuri rolls his and looks over to his friend and says," Flynn, are you still going to say things like that!?"

Alexei then responds with a driven," Nothing has changed, expect my methods. Absolute power is the only thing that can revive this rotting, stagnant empire, this world! "

Flynn then says,"And just how many lives do you plan to sacrifice to acquire it? No true reformation can occur as long as long as I fallow the means presented by the empire. You should understand that."

Flynn looks conflicted and Raven says," Whoa there, don't tell me you're actually listing to this drivel!"

Ben laughs and says," That's right, no matter what you say nothing justifies this. Smarter people then you have tried to say that your path was in the right, only to go mad in darkness."

Estelle then cries out a pained," Why have you taken such a hurtful path!? Someone with your statured could have found another way! "

Alexei widens his eyes as he responds with a fanatical," At times dreamers must suffer being branded as criminals. But I will gladly suffer such burdens. I promised to free this world form the Entelexeia, from the aer, and from this pitiful empire! This world shawl be reborn!"

Yuri gets angry and throws his sword out of his sheath and catches it as he says," I don't give a damn what you're doing this for! But you're making a lot of people cry. And that's enough of a reason to take you down!"

He then charges at the mad Commandant and the foe grins as he says," I see you have much to learn you simple minded nuisance!"

He then waves his hand and the crystal hovering above him glows, and Flynn sees the danger first and says," Yuri look out! "

Everyone sees a powerful green energy beam fire out of the crystal, but in a flash Ben appears before Yuri and blocks the shot! He then says," It's you who has much to learn Alexei! First of all, you REALLY underestimated what an Enji Knight can do. Second of all, you were caught up in your grand idea of you being the one who thinks he can create a better world and killing everyone who gets in the way, just like every other megalomaniac. You're nothing special Alexei, just another warped bad guy who is going to be taken out!"

Alexei then says," You Enji are not omni-powerful. What my alleys told me about your recent divide in the order and your government. Your Lylat Kingdom is not strong enough to bring about the new world. Aross the entire cosmos I am unique! I am, GUH!"

The madmen blinks and suddenly feels the sensation of Ben punching him square in his jaw! It seems the owner of the Star Sword could not hold back his disgust any more as he unleashed a burst of rage that hit Alexei before he could even react! As Ben's enemy is smashed in to the wall he glares at Ben and is about to say something before he spits out a tooth! As he sees the tooth bounce Ben groans before he says," I am sick of you bad guys and your repetitive monologues !We get it, you think your special and all that. Here is the thing though, your not, your just a wack job that needs to be taken down! "

Alexel just looks enraged as he snarls out," Ill teach you foreign slime to respect me!"

With that he smashes a terminal and everyone is shocked to see the platform rise up!

Cloud then gets in to fighting stance and says," That was your last chance Alexei. Now you're going to be stopped no matter what!"

Ben sighs and powers up as he says," Well, the negotiations were short."

Raven then aims his bow at his former superior and says," Hey boss, you really want to go through with this?"

Alexei chuckles and says,"Must I put up such questions even from you? None of you, NONE, thinks the empire, and the way are world is being run is the right way. "

" Ben rolls his eyes at Alexei's ranting before he groans out," God damn it, even when you break them they STILL keep going! "

Cloud then sighs before he reacts with," Tsc, just knowing something is not being done right is not an excuse to go to the extremes to do what your idea of fixing it is Alexei."

Raven then adds," The ends don't justify means boss. These kids and the Enji taught me that."

Estelle then says," I could never agree with your way of doing things. A way that is full of pain. If you truly have no intention of changing your ways then, we will do whatever it takes to stop you!"

Karol then says," the guilds and the empire both have good points. You can't just wipe them out and start over!"

Judith then says," Using force will surely breed resentment and contempt. You do know that don't you?"

Rita then says," There is no guarantee the world you would make would be any better than this one!"

Yuri then says," No one is going to believe what a double crossing madman like you says!"

Alexei then takes out his sword and says,"

I see my explanations are wasted on you. It figures since the small minded always fear change. I was beginning to think no one would be able to understand my desire, till I made contact with those who share my views. And it's clear those that stand in the way of true evolution must be dealt with permanently!"

Link points his Master Sword at him and says,"

Are those that you were referring to when you meant sharing your views Ganondorf, his minions and the Zannacross Empire? Answer me, what did they want from you? You do know that you're just a pawn in their plans and when you are no longer of use will be disposed of at once?"

Alexei looks at Link and says," Sorry, that is not information for you to know. You will have more pressing matters to worry about, like your death!"

Kirby then says," I first thought you were just a stuffy man but you're a really big jerk Alexei! There is no way you're going to win!"

Ben smirks and points the Star Sword at his current foe before he says,"Kirby is right. Like I keep telling you, going through this betrayal of yours is like déjà vue. Just two weeks ago we dealt with the very thought out treachery of Kira Myers, the former hero of the Lylat Kingdom, and the head of the entire Titans Special Forces. His betrayal was a lot more personal, deadly, and nearly shattered the Lylat Kingdom, the Enji Knights, and my own mind. However, we were able to survive and win, just like how we will live through this! I can just tell from what I am sensing you don't have a quarter of the power or magic Kira had!"

Alexei then begins to have his magic energy form around him and he says,

" I won't even allow you to look down on me Ben Auro! All the Aer in the world is at my command. And with that to empower me it will be more than enough to unleash the full power of this shrine. And when it does, nothing will stop me from killing you all! Victory is, GUH!"

Once more Ben takes advantage of his foe's love for his own ego to dash at him and drop kick him hard enough to cause him to bounce across the chamber! As he lands and coughs up blood he emits various curses before screaming out," Feel good about yourself Enji? Soon, very soon, ill be making you all look like the clowns you are!"

Rita then eyes the madman carefully before she spits out," Yah right. You're still trying to figure out the formula! If you had not you would have used it on us all ready!"

Alexei then rasps out a bitter," Ah yes, I forgot just how much you know about everything Rita Mordio. How careless of me."

Yuri then says,"Are you serious? Look at your self, you think you can change the world? Don't make me laugh! I can't stand high up's like you thinking you can play god. Time to smash you in to reality! Divine Wolf Blaze!"

He then charges at his foe with his sword literally burning with energy! However in a flash Alexei blocks the attack with his sword and says," I have reached my limits with your behavior Yuri Lowell! Very well, then this will be will be one more trial along my path as the rightful ruler! A lowly scum like you, will never stop me! Its time I rip you apart like the annoying idealistic vigilante you are!"

With that he fires a energy blast from his sword that blasts Yuri all the way to the edge of the platform! He then says," A dirty dog like you won't be allowed to mock me. You will be the first sacrifices to the new worlds dawn, come!"

Estelle then says," I thought he did not have all the power from Zaude yet?"

Rita then says," Maybe not all of the power, but he may have enough."

Yuri quickly rebounds from the attack and says,"He is really putting out all the stops. But we have to do the same, to show whose justice really is right!"

Alexei laughs as his magic energy explodes and he says," Let me show you just what the face of justice is! Radiant Dragon!"

With that he fires a powerful holy blast from his sword to try and blast the group, but they are all able to doge it. He then fires of another blast but Cloud defects it with his sword and counters with his sword beam limit break. However Alexei flaunts his power by catching the beam of energy in his hand and shattering it! He then says," Fools, your powers are the highest caliber no doubt, but the powers I now weld are beyond any mortal! Oh?"

He sees Link Judith and Ben all jumping at him to strike as Ben says,"Oh shut up all ready you stuck up idiot! Your power is not going to stop the one who is going to save the cosmos from the ultimate emperor of darkness!"

Alexei then strikes the ground with his sword and says,"Ben Auro, time to show me if you are really able to stand up to your destiny! Guarding Frost!"

With that Alexei's magic aura turns to ice and it latches out to ensnare those charging at him and freezing them solid! Alexei laughs as he sees the frozen warriors faces and says,"

Ah, no better way to prove my superiority then by a collection of ice sculptures of those that defied me! Huh, this power, no!"

He is shocked to see a surge of light before the entire area shakes and the ice explodes! After only blinking once Alexei sees Ben looking perfectly fine as Link and Judith are panting and Ben says," I told you Alexei, you're going to pay for underestimating the Enji Knights and me so severely! To bad you made yourself deaf by ranting so much!"

Alexei then sneers before he retorts with a cold," I never underestimated you, I just made sure I went to great lengths to put victory in my grasp no matter who stands before me! Ill teach you to respect my genius, Raging Ice Fang!"

With that his blade is encased with ice and it rages with dark energy but as he jumps up in to the air Ben just calmly encases his sword in light energy as he says," Tsc, how about instead I teach you to respect the power of me and the Star Sword? Take this, Shinning Flare Slash!"

With that Alexei and Ben's powers collide and the power is strong enough to blow the others back with a powerful shockwave and explosion! However it's clear who won that attack when Alexei is sent flying in to the air and lands on the ground with a thud! His impact is strong enough to crack the platform underneath him and he sees his right hand is bloody as he says," So this is the power of the warrior of destiny. Truly, impressive. If this is you when you're not even at full power, then I have to admit I have no chance of defeating you at this stage. However, all that means is that I must resort to drastic measures!"

He then quickly shows what he means when he takes something out of his pocket, and when it shines with dark light Ben quickly sees what it is and says," No, he got a Cursed seal of Necrocalcous to? Ugh, guess he is all the way in with the Zannacross Empire. "

James then looks closely and adds a grave," Not just that, it's an advanced stage one!"

Flynn then says," So, you would even sell your soul to the darkness to achieve your ends? "

Alexei then laughs and bellows out a You were always so naive Flynn. The path to victory is neither from light nor darkness, but from the desire to have nothing to stand in your way! The true power of despair, of anger, and of sorrow, it's the truest form of emotions and it will be the final surge of power to wipe you out! Observe Flynn, Yuri, and the rest of you misguided peasants what it means to evolve!"

He then slams the crystal in to his forehead and his aura explodes with darkness! As energy surges in to him, his skin even turns dark and fragments of the crystals burst out of his shoulders like spikes! The symbol of the empire of on his eyes turn red and he says," Yes, this is what true power is! None of you will leave this area alive! Now, time to even the playing field!"

He then has his newly darkness filed sword shoot out red fragments, and theses fragments turn in to various Necrocalcous!

Ben smirks and says," Oh, so now because you summoned some extra muscle its hopeless? You're new at this clearly."

Alexei then gets mad and says," Quite! I will teach you to disrespect me! Now, face your doom!"

Ben just chuckles before he mutters a sarcastic," Been there, done that, and it's no fun. Seriously you think this is special Alexi? This is the thing all the other bad guys have done to us, and we beat them. And so your going to go down like all the other idiots who think that just having a lot of dark side power is going to save you! Now, time to cause your ambitions to come crashing down!"

He then throws his Star Sword like a boomerang right at Alexei's head, but the powered up villain just flicks it back in to the sky with his wrist! He then says," Sorry, but this is where your role as hero is no longer part of the script! I am now truly invincible!"

Rita then readies up another spell and says," I had enough of you abusing your knowledge to harm everyone! I don't care how much power you absorbed ill still blast you to bits! Meteor Storm!"

With that she unleashes another round of powerful energy meteors! However Alexei sees this and says," My dear, I'll show you that your inferior magic will not cut it this time!"

With that he holds his sword in the air and it glows, before it fires a web of energy that catches all the meteors and absorbs it in to energy! He then says," Let me show you how to properly use such power!

Brilliant Cataclysm!"

With that he floats in to the air and unleashes a massive blast of blue energy while saying," See how far the path of your foolish ideals gets you? Die by the absolute true power of darkness!" As his powerful Mystic Art attack descends down with the intention of shattering the heroes Ben powers up and says," Is that all you have? Even if you had ten times the power, you will never lose! And it's because no matter what powers you infuse yourself with, the desire to protect those important to you, is infinitely times stronger! Shinryukenha!"

With that Ben fires of his massive energy beam in to the air to confront his opponent's blast and the conclusion causes a shockwave that rattles the shrine! While the beam struggle goes back and forth before Ben says,"I am not finished yet, but you will soon be! Take this!

"With that Ben puts even more energy in to his blast, and it's enough to push Alexei's blast all the way back in to him and he says," How can he amass all of this energy, and still have so much left? No, it won't end like this, I will not allow it! "

With that he uses his power to blast himself out of the way of the incoming blast and lands on the ground just as the attack causes a massive explosion in the sky! He sees this and glares at Ben while saying," What makes you Enji so special? It can't just be that you're from other worlds; you're the same make up as the humans of this world. Tsc, I was obsessed with Dein Nomos, but now I see I should have spent my efforts securing the Star Sword to assure my victory was absolute."

Ben eyes Alexei darkly before he retorts with a firm," It's not the Star Sword that is what defines me, mostly. It choose be because I was willing to except my destiny even after I realized just how painful, or stressful that road would be to walk down. Because after all the pain that this path leads, I won't run away from it or let it crush me. Because no matter how painful it is I can't afford to lose! I won't let anyone stop me from reaching my dreams!"

Alexei laughs and says," Such noble resolve. But I am afraid that even if you can do the impossible and defeat me here. You will never reach anything but despair! GUH!"

He screams out in pain as he is hit from behind, and turns around to see that he was blasted by the triple attack of Yuri's Azure Storm, Flynn's Demon Fang, Repede's Sonic Dog, and Estelle's Star Stroke attack! As his back is smoldering his fist shakes as Yuri says," You really are oblivious to the real world Alexei! It's not what special potential you were born with or manage to pick up. It's not what you were born in to either! It does not matter who you are or what you are from! All that matters is that you have the drive to do what is right, and keep going no matter what!"

Flynn then powers up his magic energy and says,"He is right Alexei! All the power in the universe is worthless if it's only used to bring injustice and misery! This ends now!"

Alexei then gets angry and says," And so it shawl, Grave Worm!"

He fires a blast of energy but Flynn sidesteps it before his sword explodes with holy energy and he points it at his former superior as he says," Radiant Dragon Fang!"

He then fires the blast and it turns in to a barrage of blasts shaped like the heads of dragons! They all collided in to Alexei and he uses his power to keep the attacks at bay while he says," Enough, your will alone will never be able to triumph over me ! Huh?"

He then sees Estelle run over to be beside Flynn and channel her own energy while saying," Maybe not alone. But working together are hearts united has limitless potential! Sacred Penance! "

With that she fires of her powerful holy Mystic Art to combine with Flynn's! The attacks presses him back and Rita then unleashes everything she has and says," That is right, time you see just what happens when you try and compare the powers of one and several!

Ancient, Catastrophe!"

Rita then adds her own Mystic Art to the mix by firing four different orbs that surround Alexei. She then fires a blast in to the center, and causes all four of them explode, and this causes Alexei's defenses to fail and the other attacks all hit him as well! After the obvious explosion the smoke clears, and a wounded and furious Alexei emerges! His hair is uneven and his face and armor is all messed up but he is still standing and he says," Enough! All you are doing is delaying your inevitable painful death! The longer you annoy me the longer I will torture you till I am satisfied enough to kill you! "

Yuri then gets determined and says," In that case, let's end this right now! I'll never let you harm anyone again!Savage Wolf Fury! "

Yuri then shocks everyone by having his magic energy explode

In a flash he charges at Alexei and the angry traitor goes to slash him only for Yuri to vanish! However Yuri quickly reappears, to slash Alexei across the stomach! He then warps all over the area with such speed Alexei can't fallow as he keeps slashing him again and again all over before he can even react and after landing what seems like dozens of lighting fast slashes he ends the combo by jumping in the air, and has the energy around his sword explode as he delivers one final slash horizontally! Yuri lands and puts his sword back on his shoulder in his usual flashy demeanor and Alexei then says," Yuri Lowell, you little, RAH!"

At that instant the full damage of Yuri's Mystic Art takes effect, as blood pours out of all the wounds Alexei received! Now in much pain he grasps his chest and says, "Nn,,,, uuh,YOU! No, my ambitions can't end here!"

Yuri just says," It's over Alexei. "

Ben nods before he adds," Your power level is all ready dropping fast. Heh, it may not be the real deal but it is gratifying to soundly defeat a cheap imitator. Now, if you admit you're done there is still a way out of dying, maybe."

Estelle then takes a deep breath and looks up and is shocked before she says," Is this, the top of Zaude?"

Everyone then realizes that while they were fighting the platform had continued to rise and they are now on the top of the shrine! Seeing the giant green crystal that appears to be the shrines core up close Wyrmmon then says," Wow, its much scarier looking up close! Hey, it's up to something!"

The Digimon is right as the crystal is glowing brighter, and then a kind of command module forms at its front and Rita says," No way, you continued the analyzes this whole time?"

Alexei stands back up as if on a second wind and holds his sword in the air as he says,"We shawl witness together the might of Zaude!"

With that he shocks everyone by having his magic aura resurface and glow with power! Ben then gets fed up with this and says," No more, this is the end!"

He then charges to slash at Alexei, but it's too late and the surge of energy hits the crystal! That crystal then fires a massive blast of light in to the sky. And seems to hit the sky! It's not a explosion though, and everyone is puzzled as the sky absorbs it!

James then says,"Just what kind of weapon is this? Hey, what the?"

He and everyone else sees the sky seem to flicker, before to the horror of everyone a giant purple mass comes crashing out of it! Ben then says," This is unreal, the sky is, falling? Who built this weapon, Chicken Little? Oh great, it's getting bigger!"

Ben is right, as the entire sky seems to fold away to revile what can best be described, as a giant purple octopus that is the size of the planet and blocks out the sky! Rita then says," What the hell is that thing?"

Judith then says," That, it was on the mural at Myozro!"

Estelle then looks worried and says," You mean, the Catastrophe?"

Yuri then cringes as he says," The only explanation, it's the Adephagos!"

Alexei seems as shocked as the heroes and staggers backwards as blood continues to drip down and he says,"

This is the power of Zaude? No, but I thought, this cannot be!"

Raven then says,"The Adephagoes? Did you use that much aer? "

Alexei's eyes bulge as he says,"No, this catastrophe has always been waiting for us! "

Karol then says," What do you mean? "

Judith then says," It can only mean that the Adephagoes was never eliminated! It was just sealed of far from sight!"

A confused Doug says,"Hold on, that thing was not there when we landed, and it's pretty hard not to spot a giant octopus of doom on your way down to a world!"

Link then says,"And I nor Kirby spotted such a thing on our way to Terca Lumireis either!"

James then thinks hard and says,"Maybe, it was sealed within the planets moon? It's the only situation that seems plausible. Oh?"

Everyone then hears Alexei begging to laugh madly and he says," Hahaha! Of course, it was too powerful to destroy so the ancients sealed it away. but now it has returned to spread the ruin it one rained down on the ancients! And to think, I caused it all! Hahah, the ultimate irony. But, why, why did lord Ganondorf lie? Did he know this would be the power of the shrine? Or was he to unaware?"

Hearing his archenemies name at once sharpens his attention and Link glares at Alexei while saying," so you DID talk with Ganondorf!? You really trusted his word? You fool, you just doomed this world! Tell us now, is this what he wanted you to do?"

Alexei just walks backwards while laughing madly and says," It's useless now, nothing can change time!

" Rita then says," So, the shrine of Zaude was not a weapon, but holding it back all this time!? "

Cloud then sighs and says,"See Alexei? You wanted power, and you got it, but it will destroy you before you can do anything with it!"

Alexei then says,"We were nothing more than worms writhing before the coming storm. Bah, so I to, was just a pawn. No, ill show him to look down on me ! I'll find a way to take control of the Adephagoes, and take that power to make him submit!" A fed up Yuri then says,"

Oh just shut up and die you crazy psycho!"

With that he dashes over, and slashes Alexei once more across the chest, before stabbing him in the heart! Coughing up blood Alexei throws Yuri's sword out of him and just looks at Yuri with blank eyes before he says," It seems that I was the biggest fool of all. Still, I won't, Huh?"

Both he and Yuri look up and see the crystal is sparking, right before it comes crashing down! Estelle then says,"

Yuri, look out!"

Ben sighs and says," I'm on it!"

In a flash he warps over and grapes Yuri's arm before flash stepping just in time to get back with the others just as the large crystal falls down, and causes nearly half of the platform to break of as they, and Alexei fall in to the surrounding ocean with a large splash!"

While they did not see Alexei in his condition it's not likely he could save himself now. Yuri looks at the ocean and says,"

That was, to close. Thanks Ben looks like I own you one."

Ben nods and says," Well, it should be three but who's counting. Anyway, looks like Alexei might have not known all the answers, but while he did not get the last laugh, looks like he screwed everyone over to."

Cloud then says," Is this the true intention of the Zannacross Empire behind helping Alexei? If Ganondorf wanted this thing released, it must be because they want to use this thing to wipe out the planet!"

Link then has resolve in his eyes and says," There is no way I will allow that! Be it Hyrule, this world or any other, I will never let him succeed in his vile acts!"

Ben smirks and says," Don't worry, no way am I going to have this giant heap of ugly wreck the world. For one thing it would look bad on my record, and of course the whole loss of lives and such. Don't worry, Yuri, Estelle, Flynn, everyone. We will to everything we can, and save this world!"

Yuri smirks and says," Sounds good to me. I'll show this Zannacross Empire who they are messing with! They want to play god? Bring it, we will make them pay! Well, let's figure out just how to deal with this thing. "

As his alleys nod Cloud goes to contact Cid, Luke and Cecil in order to figure out how to deal with this fresh crises.

---

However, little do they know that someone else has seen the Adephagoes return, and he is outraged to see it! This person is Duke, and as he sees the massive being that once nearly destroyed the world he clutches his fist in anger and says," So, this is what nearly destroyed the world ages ago? It is even more of a crises then the Entelexeia described! Humans, the masses of those fools will never come to any accord. I see now, this is the true form of human will. Tsc, it will never change, they will sin again and again and never stop endangering the world!

I see it was like Phaeroh said, to put my faith in Yuri Lowell and those Enji was a mistake.

Now, I must end this, all of it. The point of no return has past. Huh, this presence. Who are you, show identify yourself.

"He hears a laugh and a voice says," No need for alarm, I share your disgust and have come to help you Duke. I to have seen that the truth of humanity is nothing but ugliness and would like to help you achieve your goals. And as for whom I am. "With that a column of darkness appears on the ground in front of Duke and a figure rises out of the ground,

and its none other than the king of evil himself, mounted on a large black armored horse!

Ganondorf smirks and says,"I am one who has seen the true nature of humanity like you Duke. The only difference between us is that I have seen countless cultures throughout the cosmos, and they are all the same, rotten. Forgive my intrusion, but I think we have something in common."

The suspicious white haired red eyed man remains aloof as he says," And that thing is?"

Ganondorf gives of a wide grin and says," The desire to end the era of theses pathetic humans, once and for all!"

Well, talk about a glass half full or a glass half empty! While Alexei was defeated like the cheap Kira want to be that he acted like, he was able to activate the shrine, too bad it did not do what he wanted it to do! Now it seems even he has got more then he bargained for, and the calamity that once destroyed the world of Terca Lumireis, the Adephagoes, has been unsealed! Not only does Ben, his fellow Enji, Link, Kirby , Yuri and the other members of Brave Vesperia quickly have to figure a way to stop this monstrously from destroying the planet, but how will this encounter between Duke and Ganondorf effect the fate of are heroes?

To find out tune in next time for Tales of the Cosmic Wars!

In are next chapter Ganondorf and Duke finish there," talk" and Ganondorf entices all of Duke's resentment to humanity to convince him to resort to his extreme plan to destroy the world eater that stands just outside the sky! Meanwhile the Enji and the major figures of the world try and figure out the best way to stop the giant" Octopus of doom". Rita comes up with a complex plan that involves converting the " apatheia" or Entelexeia in to sprits, which would then counter the power of the Adephagos. On the other hand the Enji just want to blow it up with their airships but just can't figure out how to do it without some recoil problems. However before any of them can try out who's theories is the best Duke appears before them all, and promptly takes back Dein Nomos back from Yuri! Clamming to know the best way to stop the crises he promptly reclaims the sword and leaves just has suddenly as he appeared, but everyone quickly sees what his plan is when they are shocked to see a giant castle of the ancient civilization out of the ground!

It seems Duke's master plan to save the world is to use the power of the Ancient tower of Tarqaruon and the good news is that it indeed has the power to destroy the Adephagos. The bad news? It gets its power by the energy of every human in the world! Of course are hero's refuse to expect Duke's plan and they all rush to the floating tower to confront him. After quickly reaching Duke they are all ready to stop him.

But it won't be easy, not only is Duke the hero of the last war and a extremely powerful warrior far above Alexei. But when Duke sees just what he is up against, he calls forth the spirits of all the Entelexeia that seek revenge on humans, even its century year old kings, to increase his power masscult! Can the fighters of the light stop Duke's vengeful plan before all the people of Yuri and friends world suffer the prince? But what really matters is, while they are busy with Duke,

Ganondorf is more than aware of this, and at last makes his true move! What is this move?

Find out in Chapter 98: A Duke's Judgment! Breaking the Cycle of Hatred! Till next time!

And like always thanks for the reviews!