Trails of Cold Steel: Twilight Saga

by mysteryfriend16

The Great Twilight and Rean's been capture by Osborne and the Gnomes. Class VII, old and new, join by everyone throughout the world begin their plan to stop Osborne, and the Great Twilight. With war on the horizon that leads to the end of the world, they seek answers, and plan to rescue Rean in the progress. Will they save the world before the war or darkness consume all?

18. The Rivalry

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Start Line)

Rean and everyone are gather at the clearing for a farewell.

"I really can't thank you all enough." Rean smiled. "Please, take care everyone."

"Renne, KeA, Aoi, and Jingo, too. We owe you our gratitude." Kurt added

"No need. We're glad to help." Aoi let out a warm smile.

"I'll make sure I pass it on to Estelle and the others for you. Have fun." Renne replied.

"Gothorita." Renne's Gothorita smiled with curtsy.

"We'll do the same to Lloyd and them, too!" KeA smiled

"Give 'em Gehenna out there." Jingo said.

"I'm gonna provide the branch campus students with support while I keep searching for Tio Tot. Maybe I'll even find a Pokemon companion of my own while I'm at it." Randy smiled. "I'll be in contact if I find out anything."

"Okay!" Juna nodded "You watch out for yourself, too, Randy!"

"While I'll do the same with a Pokemon pal, I'll link up with other bracers while I search for Tita. Sara, Fie, Noel, Makoto, Tao, Tsubaki: Good Luck."

"Same to you." Fie replied.

"Make sure you take care of yourself, Agate!" Noel Vermillion smiled.

"Remember not to be too reckless out there." Makoto Nanaya smiled

"Give our regards to Estelle and the others." Tsubaki smiled

"Meow! Good lucky, spiky tough guy!" Taokaka cheered

"Give our best to Scherzard." Sara smiled

"We'll be back to Fodlan for the time being. Until then, everyone. You best be careful." Sothis said.

"Yes. Your Majesty, Brianna, Black Eagles, Blue Lions, Golden Deer and Ashen Wolves. Take care of each other as you always do." Rhea agreed

"We will. Good luck with the situations in Fodlan." Byleth nodded

"Let us know if there's anything that needed our attention." Yuri added

"Though our paths may split here for a time, the potential for our cooperation is still on the broad." Aurelia said. "Take care, Lafy Mildine. Best of luck to you all."

And to you as well, General." Musse smiled

"Doubt you need to freak out just yet with the Black Whirlwind, the Black Knight, that pretty boy secretary of his, and the two witches alongside the Azure Abyss here." Ash comment.

"Haha. He's not wrong." Kagura chuckled.

"We'll do our best to assist." Trinity smiled.

"Don't push your luck." Konoe respond.

"In any case, we shall be off." Hibiki said.

"Give my best to the brigadier general as well. May fortune be on your side." Rean smiled

Vita turn to Emma, Celine and Roselia. "Emma, Celine, Grandmother. I'm grateful we had the chance to see each other, even if it was on the shorter side. Our future may be a rocky one, but do remember to be kind to yourselves."

"Vita..." Emma smiled. "Don't push yourself too much, either, okay?"

"Or you could stay in touch for once, at the very least." Celine said

"Don't hesitate to let us know if you require our assistance." Roselia added

"It's about time we left." Thomas said. "Gaius, Roselia. Thank you all your help."

"The gratitude is ours." Gaius smiled.

"Do take care, Father Thomas." Rosine smiled

"We'll be off, then!" Josette said. "Just lemme know if you guys need anything. I'll be over in a flash."

"Thanks, Josette." Alisa smiled.

"We appreciate it. Take care of yourselves out there." Rean said.

"All right. Ragna, Jin good luck." Jubei said.

"Our paths will cross again." Hakumen said.

"Yeah, yeah." Ragna said as they begin to board the ships, opened a portal and then took off.

"Now then. We should depart as well." Meta Knight said, pulling out a communicator. "Sword, Blade. You're free to descent now."

"Aye, aye." Both respond as the Halberd slowly descends down and lands on the clearing, opening the hatch and entryway.

"All right. Let us board." Meta Knight said. "Oh, and Rean. Once you brought the Divine Knights and Soldots into the Hanger, head to the elevator take hit the 5 floor button. That's where we'll be."

"Right." Rean nodded before turning to the Hexen Clan

"Thanks for everything, guys! Seriously!" Juna smiled.

"It's because of everyone's help that we're all standing together right now." Altina smiled.

"We'll be sure to repay the favor someday." Kurt agreed with a smile.

"Oh, there's no need for that. You're one of us now." Witch Dallier smiled.

"Feel free to come back and visit anytime." Thomson smiled.

"Safe travels, everyone!" Witch Nina smiled

"Off you go. Make sure you give them what for." Roselia added.

"You got it!" Rean said with determination. "Let's do this, guys!"

"Yeah!" Everyone agreed as New Class VII, Levi and Rean boarded their Divine Knight and Soldots to enter the Hanger in the Halbard while everyone else took the other entrance to the Halberd.

Once everything settled. The Halberd begin to take off as a portal appeared, leaving the Hexel Clan and off into the sky.

(BGM ended)

(Kirby Return to Dream Land ost - Grape Garden)

As Rean, Levi and New Class VII place their Soldots in their slots, they begin to head to the plain area where Levi place the horses there for them to feel comfortable and then headed to the Pokemon sanctuary as they all summon their Pokemon to enjoy and relax there. And Millium's Steelix freely roam around. They headed to the bridge where everyone else awaits.

As they arrived and everyone gathered, they see Meta Knights bridge area is impressive.

"Wow. So this is what the Halberd looks like on the inside then the stage." Levi said in awe.

"No kidding." Rean nodded.

"Wow. Look at this equipment here." Angelica said as she's behind the Wheel where Sword is next to her. "This is quite the beauty."

"Aye. She's a tough gal. So you better take good care of her behind the wheel Angelica." Sword said.

"You can count on me."

"Wow. I always wanted to look what's inside the Halberd for sometime now. But this is truly beautiful. Is this technology from Dreamland?" Alisa asked

"That's right. I used some of the state-of-the-art technology to build this ship." Meta Knight nodded "It's usually just me, Blade, Sword as well as other friends back in Dream Land. I appreciate that many of you will offer a handing hand."

"Of course! Is there anything we can do to help?"

"My crew can handle the rest, but if you wish to help. We have several jobs shifts from navigation to cooks, engineers, and basically every military position."

"Meta Knight. We are now entering Tyrrhenian Plateua airspace. The current time is 13:24." Sword announced. "Where shall I plot our course?"

"If I may. We must go through the Olbia lowlands. Circle around the peninsula and proceed west along the rival, then head north and swoop over the Balares Sea." Gaius said.

"Aye, aye!"

"You seem have a captain position, Gaius. I'm impressed." Meta Knight smiled behind the mask.

"Oh, I'm still getting used to me piloting my own ship so I was hoping this could be good practice." Gaius scratch his hair. "Sorry that I stole your spotlight."

"No need. I'm not too familiar with Erebonia's map, so I will need a guide."

"Looks like we managed to avoid the Air Force surveillance network." Blade said.

"Phew, this is unbelievable." Sara said.

"Almost feels like we're cheating the system." Fie added.

"Well, considering how many times our foes have cheated, I think this is a fair game." Levi winked. "And besides, we finally have a means of transport that we can use at anytime."

"Indeed. The Halbard is an impressive battleship." Jusis said.

"Indeed. It makes it look like the Pantagruel pales in comparison to the Halbard or the Blue Typhoon." Musse admit.

"Haha. I wouldn't go that far, Musse." Tails said. "But in any case, we should help out too. Many of us has been through inside the Halberd before. But not all of you. Why don't you take a tour of the place."

"Indeed. A tour will be nice, considering we will do a small detour before we reach Bryonia Island." Meta Knight nodded.

"Of course. Thank you, Meta Knight." Rean smiled.

"Of course. Please, follow me everyone." Meta Knight said as they took off to the Hallway. "As you can see. This is one of my many hallways in the Halberd. I'm sure many of you know this, but to those who don't... the Halberd is capable of atmospheric and space flight, and is able to take off from underwater. We can made to move at hyper speeds, and do so by using wormholes, managing to cover 900 light years in several minutes. The Halbard has many facilities and many rooms. The reference room, sickbay, workshop, training room, break room, lounge, kitchen with fine dining, baths, and a jail for keeping prisoners of war. We encounter those in the past." Meta Knight said as they stooped. "Now, see here." He turn his head to the map on the wall. "Here is the map of the entire Halbard. "Here we are on the fifth floor. 5F. The only thing here is the bridge, my bedroom, and the bathrooms. There's also a small table, soda machines, and snack machines here. You're free to go around the ship. Except the Engine room. That's off-limits. Now, to get to different floors, you must either take the stairs or the elevator. Both are closeby to each other. Come with me to the first floor. Oh. If you want to use the elevator, there are limits of people can fit in along with weight. Keep that in mind."

They begin to take off to the next floor where they go upstairs and head to the forth floor and walk around.

"Here is the forth floor. This floor has many rooms. Game Room, of course, a bar to those who like to drink." He said, causing Sara to look happy while others sweatdrop. "Baths, Training rooms, conference room, storage rooms, and one of many break rooms and many restrooms from gender," He said, showing everyone.

"Wooow." Alisa said as her eye sparking.

"Now, follow me to the Third floor." Meta Knight as some take the stairs while others use the elevator. "Now, here in the third floor is mostly hangout ares. But the doors out here leads to the balcony. It doesn't lead to the deck. All of the top floors from three to one are mostly hangout areas where you can enjoy the view. However, outside, we have many weapons that are in position. Many of them are cannons from all manners. Anti-air cannons, missiles, Homing Shots. It has unparalleled firepower. Now follow me to the B1 floor."

The group begin to split up as usual as they made it to the B1.

"B1 is just like the forth floor. Except it's a multipurpose sector." He said as they walk. "We have reference rooms." He said, revealing several tables with books, large TVs, a speaker system, air conditioning, phones, bean bags.

"Whoa..." Ash said in awe as they continue.

"Here is the medical bay." He said as they arrived at a large area that was fill with places suited for doctors with medicine cabinets, beds, medical equipment, plants, and phones."

"Incredible..." Emma said as they continue.

"Here is the computer rooms." Meta Knight said as they enter a room with advance multiple computers with hologram screens, frameworks, terminals, air conditioning, phones on the wall like the other rooms.

"Ahh..." Alisa eye sparking.

"Aww snap!" Futaba eye sparking.

"And there they go." Makoto sweardrop.

"I have every computer in this ship with state-of-the-art anti-hacker programs to keep unwanted guests from trespassing. Next door is the rest areas." Meta Knight turn to the left and then see a large break room with several sleeper bunk beds, drinks machines and snacks, and several lockets. "Now follow me to the Cafeteria." He said as he guided them a few stems to a large cafeteria room with several tables, chairs, kitchens and equipment, large TV on the walls, game tables, and bars. "Here as I said, the Cafeteria. Feel free to eat here."

"Wow! I'm so know what I'm going to do!" Raphael cheered

"Next door to the cafeteria. Well, it's just a large empty area. I don't know what to do with it just yet. But between these staircases in the end of both sides, leads to the deck. feel free to visit them however you like. Just make sure you don't get blow away. Hehe. Joking of course. Just like the rest of the floors. They all have large bathrooms. However, we also have baths." He said as he guides them to the baths area. "Here you can bath or shower however you like.

"That's good to know." Venti smiled

"Let's head to B2." Meta Knight said as he takes them to B2. "Here in B2. This is where we have several bedrooms for all crew members. Some par in bunk beds while others or just single rooms. However, B2 is only for women. The men are B3. Keep that in mind. I place in reminders so it will be easy. Now, follow me to B4." He said as he guided them there. "Here in B4 is the Hanger where as you can see, if where we keep the soldots and Divine Knight here."

"Woooooow." Alisa said in awe.

"Yeah. Even we were surprise of how large this hallway was." Rean said. "The large door in the end is the hatcher where we come out."

"Indeed. On the other side is where we have our factories." Meta Knight said as she guided them to a large room where they see equipment related to smithing, orbal-related stuff.

"Hey everybody!" A voice called out as they turned and see two chipmunks behind the counter."

"The hell! Two chickmunks?" Ryuji asked.

"Oh my gosh, they're so adorable~" Ann cooed

"NNngh..." Morgana grumbled.

"Everyone, meet Chip and Dale. Our friends back in Disney Castle." Mickey introduce.

"Nice to meet you. I'm Chip." Chip introduces as his black nose.

"And I'm Dale!" And Dale is introduced with the Red nose.

"Chip, Dale! It's so good to see you too!" Alisa cheered

"You too Alisa. It's been awhile." Chip agreed. "Meta Knight was kind enough to let us take over this facility. We got everything down. We can still help out with operators but feel free to ask us to make you quarts until someone else can take our place."

"Yep. You'll find anything here from refining your weapons or anything else in crafting." Dale nodded. "On the other side of the Factory is another storage room. And if we're not here. We'll probably be in the floor below."

"Indeed. Below this floor is B5. This is where most of several airships are deck and operate to use. It's also where they can refuel, maintenance, and such." Meta Knight explain. "Feel free to mark your ships here."

"Ah, I see. In that case, I'll be sure to bring my Merkabah then." Gaius smiled

"Same for the Gummiship." Sora nodded.

"Any ships that can fit in here." Chip said.

"One more thing. This floor also has an engine room. I had it sealed which I'm sure you all know. But aside from that floor. I also have the jail area which is on B6. You're free to go there. But if we have anyone we arrest behind bars, don't let them out. That should include this tour." Meta Knight told everyone.

"Wow. Meta Knight, the Halberd sounds completely amazing!" Alisa said as her eyes sparking. "Your battleship is clearly state of the art. But how come you have a battleship?"

"Well, you don't want to know." Meta Knight mumbling. "I mostly use it for situations like this. We still have time before we reacn Bryonia Island. Feel free to do as you like."

"Right!" Everyone nodded as they all split up.

"Well, Bard, ready to go the booze?" Ash asked

"Hehe. Must you ask?" Venti said.

"Don't make me hit YOU both with a bottle of two!" Juna scolded them

"Venti, Ash, please try to restrain yourself. We're going to need you both at your best later." Kurt sighed

"Also, since when are you just like Ash?" Altina asked

---

With Rean...

'Crow's going to be waiting at that island shine. No doubt about it. What's more, Bowser and his men will be there too. Along with Professor Kokonoe and the others. We'll finally get the truth about these Rivalries. No matter how hopeless or brutal that truth may be..." He shook his head. "Anyway, everything in this ship has many facilities I could visit.'

Rean visits around the ship where he then encounters Alisa with Futaba talking to Blade

"So this is one of the related technology in Dream Land right?" Alisa asked

"Aye. It's even equipped with a special developer mode. Are you interested in learning more about how to operate it?"

"Yeah. I want to help out any way I can. Could I borrow the manual? I bet I could spend all day soaking it in."

"All right." Blade nodded as he turn his back and then grabbed the Manule. "Here you go."

"Thanks!"

"So what about you?"

"I'm more of a navigation girl who's cook with computers and stuff like that. So I'll help out any way I can." Futaba answered

"Not wasting any time jumping in, huh?" Rean asked as he approached.

"Yep. Sure, Meta Knights crew can take over, but I want to help out. Not to mention Meta Knight's ship is very impressive. It surpasses the airships we've seen so far. The Blue Typhoon is amazing of course but I just want to keep learning more about them. You get it right?"

"Yeah. I'd love to help the crew out however I can, too, so just let me know if there's anything you need." Rean smiled. "Then again, I can't be sure how things might turn out at Bryonia Island."

"I getcha. I don't get what Crow's intentions are but we'll find out." Futaba said

"Yeah... That much is for sure..." Alisa look down.

"Um... Alisa?" Rean looks at her with concern.

"Oh, no. It's nothing." Alisa shook her head. "Try to take it easy, okay? We have to make sure you're rested before we meet Crow and the others."

"We already have break rooms you can use, so feel free to lie down." Blade said

"Will do." Rean nodded as he took off to the deck where he see Altina, Juna, Venti, Daisy and Ann.

"Oh, hey Rean." Ann waved at him.

"Hey, I didn't know you guys were out here. The Halbard is really something, huh?" Rean asked.

"It certainly is. It is Meta Knight's personal ship. It's weaponry along with the structure is impressive. It certainly advances to some other average airships." Altina nodded

"No kidding. And here I thought the Observatory was awesome enough as it is. Of course, there's Sora and the other Gummiships, then Tail's Blue Typhoon. Makes me what other ships like this are out there." Juna said.

"It's different from Epsteins Foundation and the other technology back in our world. However, It can't say there are rivals. There are other types of vehicles we haven't ridden just yet."

"Yeah. Plus the entire ship has a camouflage field too. Higher from what I seen." Venti added. "Many worlds with technological companies have advanced in two years. Of course, that includes, Ouroboros and the Gnomes."

"Yeah. But still. Meta Knight and so many other people are just so awesome! You know? We're lucky to call them our friends." Juna smiled. "I'm so grateful for them, honestly."

"Haha. I couldn't agree more." Rean smiled.

"You know, Juna. Your ability to speak and follow Levi is exactly from the heart and never creases to awesome." Altina comment.

"All right, Allie. Don't think I can't pick up on sarcasm." Juna gave her a deadpan look.

No. I meant that sincerely... If anything, there was only one percent sarcasm at most."

"Bwahaha!" Venti laughed along with Daisy and Ann and Rean join in the laughter.

"I heard from Alisa and Jusis that you and Levi helped kick everyone into gear was quite the intense pep talk. Not to mention, you guys confronted Ash and Musse when they gone astray, and cleared the path for them to rejoin Class VII with the Ashen Wolves, and friends." Rean smiled. "While I'm happy to have Levi by our side, what you've accomplished is nothing short of amazing. I can tell just how hard you've been working."

"Yeah, he's right. You guys did good." Daisy smiled.

"Oh! N-No, come on. If anything. Levi did must of the work. I didn't do anything special. He was working hard to contact every one and getting everyone back together. He's the one you should be praising."

"Yeah, sure but no need to be modest." Ann said. "Sure, Levi was leading the class, but the rest of that was on your own."

"Plus, Kurt also had some generous words to say about you." Altina added

Wait, really?!" Juna asked

"Someone reacted quickly." Daisy grinned.

"H-Hey! I was not!" Juna blushed.

"Haha. Thank you, Juna. For helping Levi and stepped up in a major way when I was at my weakest. " Rean smiled. "I don't know just what we'll face when we reach the island. But you've inspired me to be the best instructor possible to you guys. Just as Levi as Class VII assistant. I can't let my own students do a better job than me, now can I? Let's make it happen, Juna. You too, Altina, Venti."

"Got it~" Venti smiled

"Of course." Altina nodded with a smile.

"A-All right then. Count me in!" Juna said.

"You can count on us too!" Ann said.

"Yeah! We got your back!" Daisy nodded when Juna clapped her face. "Eh?"

(BGM paused)

"I had a lot of regrets when you were gone, Instructor." Juna sighed before look at Rean with determination. "Why didn't I say anything earlier? I guess I just couldn't handle being honest with you about this..."

(Trails into Reverie ost - Raindrop in the Wind)

Juna bow in respect. "Thank you. From the bottom of my heart... Rean! About two years ago, you saved me and my siblings' lives." She look back at Rean while Ann and Daisy look at each other before looking back. "It was around the time you first came to Crossbell, as the Ashen Chevalier. You rescue a girl and some young kids who were thrown out of a civilian's truck and you probably don't even who they were..."

Rean shook his head with a smile. "No, I remember it well, Juna." He said, causing Juna to look surprised. "A head of bright pink hair like yours isn't something you can just forget. I didn't pick up on it when we first met, but by the time classes had started, I had my suspicions. The way you shielded your siblings with your body after being thrown from the truck... It just solidified from me what lengths someone from the police academy was willing to go to."

Juna cheeks blushed. "B-But why didn't you say anything earlier?! All the time I spent worrying about this... ugh! This is the worst!" She complained, causing Ann, Daisy, Venti and Altina to sweatdrop.

"Haha, I'm sorry, Juna. I guess I should've known this would happen. To tell you the truth, what happened back there in Crossbell made a huge impact on me. Being able to help you guys in the midst of all that conflict put things into perspective. In a way, it saved me. So maybe I should be the one thanking you."

"I had no idea..." Juna said. "Still, what do you have to thank me for!?"

"Hehe... aren't they close?" Venti asked to Altina.

"Yeah... I suppose I'm a little jealous." Altina said with a smile

"Maybe... but you have me. So don't be."

"Venti..." Altina look at him with a smile as he smiled back, while Daisy and Ann smiled at them.

(BGM ended)

(Resuming Grape Garden)

"Haha. I should get back inside and look around." Rean said.

"Altina. That thing you wanted to give him?" Venti whispered

"Oh, right.' Altina nodded as she clear her throat. "Instructor. I almost forgot. Please, take this.' She handed over the Eyrn Pendant.

"Oh... This is the pendant that Emma once gave me." Rean said.

"Yes. I came about it when we were all separated at the Gral. It was brokered, so I asked Emma and others to help me fix it."

"I see..." Rean smiled as he take it and put it on. "I was about to say that it did seem to have a different shine to it than before."

"However, with how things have turned out, I don't believe we'll be able to use it to control your ogre form. The only one who can is Levi I think. Even so, it is imbued with my feelings and Emma's magic. I hope you will find it useful."

"Altina... Even saying thank you isn't enough. I'll make good use of this."

"That makes me happy to hear." Altina smiled.

"All right. I'll head inside. Take care, okay." Rean said as head back inside and wandered around for a bit until he spotted Celine. "Uh... got milk, Celine?"

"What of it? I was feeling thirsty." Celine responds as Rean begin to sit down.

"Aand there we go."

"Wh-What are you sitting down like that for?"

"Well, I was thinking about it, and I realized I haven't thanked you properly." Rean smiled

"I-I'll pass. You never needed to know in the first place, you know." Celine said.

"Sheesh, will it kill you to at least appreciate it?" A voice said as Hamsuke and Lyka walk in.

"Oh great. Now look who's here..." Celine grumbled. "The last I expected was Emma's Pokemon or the others or you two."

"Oh quit being such a negative nag Celine." Lyka pouted. "Will it kill you to humor him? After all, you did help him in his dire needs."

"Yeah. I see no reason you shouldn't." Hamsuke nodded

"They're right you know." Rean smiled. "Thank you, Celine. I mean it. You're always there for me when the going gets tough. Amd the fact that I've made it this far is, without a doubt, thanks to you."

"It's just a part of my mission, is all. Hardly anything worth thanking me." Celine sighed

"You're right. Words alone aren't enough to describe how grateful I am to you, Celine. These times are sure to calm down at some once they do, I hope you'll allow me the honor of properly paying you back."

Celine frowned. "Honestly... You're such a goody-two-shoes, it hurts sometimes."

"True." Hamsuke and Lyka nodded

"Fine, fine. But just know I won't be expecting much."

Then heard an announcement.

"All right, to all passengers: we've set course for Bryonia Island." Sword said "Estimated arrival: 30 minutes from now."

"The Halberd sure is fast. I wonder what awaits us on the island." Rean said.

"Who can say for sure. So good luck, okay." Lyka as Rean got back on his feet.

Rean then headed to the Break Room where he spotted Levi looking at himself in the mirror, looking lost in thoughts.

"Levi?" Rean called out to him but he didn't respond. "Levi? You okay?"

"Wah!" Levi flinch as he turn to Rean

"Whoa, you okay there?" Rean asked

"Oh. Sorry Rean. I just had a lot in my thoughts now…"

"Is it about what your Grandfather told you about?"

"Why am I not surprised that you guess that answer right? You know me so well. Yeah… I'm thinking about that… I was wondering about my family for a long time. About these powers. About why my Grandfather look the same. Scaramouche, so many questions related to my birth. I know we're all different, but I do know my family... isn't normal like people. There are a lot of secrets they're keeping from me. What's more... What Ansem also talk about..."

"I meant your power. It can harm darkness, and you hold pure light within your heart... as well as your essence. Your entire existence is beyond anything we see. You are not a child of humanity but an entirely different being, in the form of a human."

"Ah. Something about not being a child of humanity?" Rean asked as he went to his thinking pose. "What was that about."

"Your guesses are as good as mine. With the power we wield... including their strength... It's something I don't understand just yet. I do hope I will find out."

"Well, whatever the case might be. It won't change who you are. Not in the slightest." Rean let out a warm smile

"Haha... You're right." Levi let out a warm smile back. "You know, Rean. Even though it's the result of the curse. You look cool in your new apprarance."

"Hehe. Thanks. I thought I'm like a vampire from the old legends."

"Vampire huh? So are you going to suck my blood, Mr Vampire?"

"Maybe."

"Wha-!"

"Hehe. Got you now."

"Oh you little… Heehee. Well, I should look into the horses and then get back. Take care of yourself okay."

"Will do." Rean said as Levi left while Rean turned to the mirror. 'I really do look like a vampire from some old legends huh? A bit different from what Miss Rachel and Rose is. I guess the Nosferatu were victims of the Empire's curse, to, in a way. Though when it comes to me as a Sacrifice, they're almost cute in comparison.' He thought as Alisa then began to enter the Break room. "Oh, Alisa. Do you need to use the break room to rest? I'll be out in just a sec-" Suddenly, Alisa hug him. "Ah.." Alisa hugs him tight. "A-Alisa?"

"Sorry for doing that all of a sudden... it's just..." Alisa said solemnly. "Your hair... Your eyes... They aren't going back to normal, are they?"

"No... Probably not. You don't like it?" Rean asked. "The others and I were thinking it looked kinda cool."

"You'll always be cool, no matter how you are look. You're an important person to us, after all. More than anyone... especially to me. And Levi."

"Alisa..." Rean touched her hand with warm comfort.

"Rean... I..." Alisa look down with a troubled thought as she let go.

"Um... Alisa?"

"Sorty. I didn't mean to get so carried away there. But I think it's better if..."

"If...? If what?" Rean asked with a concerned look.

"It's nothing. I'll be heading down to the lounge now. I'd like to take a look through that ship manual Blade gave me." Alisa smiled.

"Sure..." Rean said with a soft smile before Alisa left the Break Room. 'She's acting a little weird... Though she obviously has a lot to deal with, considering everything that's happening. Still, I can't help but worry sometimes, even with someone I can share my closest thoughts with. Other than...' He close his eyes. Then he begins to leave the Break Room.

---

A few minutes later...

"Wow! Look at that!" Juna replied as everyone is gathered in the bridge.

"I remember that silhouette well." Altina said.

"Huh. So that's what it look like from way up here." Ash said.

"Yep. We're almost there." Levi pointed. "It felt like a while ago since we were last there."

"A nostalgic sight, to say the least." Laura said.

"Yeah, it's almost been two years now, huh?" Fie asked.

"Ah, yes. This was where Group B conducted their studies, correct?" Jusis asked

"And Group A was over in the Nord Highlands." Elliot said.

Machias sighed. "That one sure was a doozy. No thanks to Laura and Fie over here."

"Those days are long past then, thankfully." Laura chuckled.

"What can I say? I was young back then." Fie chuckled.

"Um, why are you making it sound like your old?" Teddie asked.

"Now that you bring it up, I stopped by the island on my way to Nord, too." Sara said

"Feels just like our days back in school, huh?" Rean asked

"Though I was a very late person to even enroll in Thors. Let alone been into the places you all been to. Well, except for Nord but never even was with you." Levi sighed.

"All right. We will soon be making a stealthy landing on the beach." Meta Knight said. "Prepared to touch down, everyone." He said as they soon arrived in Bryonia Island as they landed on the water by the beach.

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Behind the Lore)

Everyone begin to leave the Halbard and arrived in the sand.

"Wow. This is a lovely Beach." Luigi said.

"But it looks pretty empty. A good spot to hide if you ask me." Daisy said.

"Indeed." Meta Knight nodded before turning to Blade and Sword. "Sword, Blade. Keep an eye on the Halberd until we get back. If the navy or air force make their appearance, pull out and get some distance between you."

"Aye, sir!" Both of them nodded

"Hey, that's my line!" Happy complained.

"I'm just glad we finally got out of there..." Natsu grumbled.

"This island kinda reminds me of our missions." Gray said.

"Oh yeah. We been through a lot of places... brings back memories." Lucy nodded.

"And one of those memories was Natsu breaking the rules and dragging you with it." Erza fold her arms.

"Ghg!" Natsu flinched.

"The Divine Knights and Sodlots are ready anytime. Don't hesitate to use them." Meta Knight said.

"Thanks, I appreciate it." Rean said. "I'll probably have to summon Valimar myself, though."

"But it all depends on this Rivalrie stuff right?" Dedede asked

"Poyo?" Kirby tilt her head.

"Well in any case, we know what to do. However, we must be careful on this island." Naoto Shirogane said.

"Right. We need to keep going." Yukiko nodded.

"This is the first time I've been here. Do you guys know the way around the Shrine?" Celine asked.

"Yep. We just need to follow that path ahead." Venti pointed.

"Then just before we reach the waterfall, we head southwest." Musse continued

"That'll lead us to the wharf where the shrine is." Ash finished.

"I think I remember the place you're talking about." Machias said.

"Yeah, there was some kind of alter around there." Elliot added

"It wasn't a full-blown shrine, however. It must have appeared after the civil war." Laura stated

Rean nodded "Yeah, it's probably still there. I just hope Crow, Kokonoe and the others waiting there for us." Rean said.

"Right. We're quite a large group actually. We should get going." Peach said.

"But we should be careful too while we're on the island." Ares said.

"Indeed. We're talking about something created by the Gnomes and the witches over a thousand years ago." Emma agreed.

"Then what are we waiting for? Let's go." Ragna nodded as they took off.

"So tell me about this island." Felix said.

"It appears to be quite ancient. I don't sense any life, other then monsters." Byleth added

"Well, the island has been awhile since ancient times. There's a colossal statue within the island." Sara said.

"But that statue was actually Ark Rouge, the Sept-Terrion of Fire. After it's power merge with the Sept-Terrion of Earth, it left its shell, leaving as a husk." Emma explained.

"Fascinating." Lyshtiea mused before they arrived at the waterfall area. "Wow, that's a beautiful waterfall!"

"And there are some water Pokemon too. Not to mention other type of Pokemon in this land." Yosuke said.

"I could draw a picture right now." Yusuke pulled out his paint equipment.

"Not now, Yusuke." Ann sighed as he dragged him.

"Hmm, What's that over there?" Ignatz pointed in the distance where they take a look behind the waterfall and found a Trial Chest.

"Oh. It's a Trial Chest." Laura said. "Strange. I can feel it calling to me."

"Same with me." Fie said.

"And me too." Mario said

"And me." Luigi rub his chin. "I heard about them from you guys."

"Wanna go in?" Fie asked as they nodded. "Let's go." They approach the box and then they get pulled into the Box.

(BGM paused)

---

In the Trial Box...

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Erosion of Madness)

"So we're to face Snakes wrapped around in Eggs no?" Laura asked as three Ippoda hissed at them.

"Let's a go!" Mario said as they form combat link and rush to the Monsters.

Laura created afterimage of herself to have the monsters attack her but each one vanished as Laura launch powerful strikes onto them as Mario launch a flurry of punches before pulling his hammer and slam one fo the Ippoda to the other as Luigi used Thunderhand to charge electricity and shock them. One of the hissed at them to intimidate them but that didn't work as one of the other snakes jump toward Luigi as he dodged, grabbed the snake neck and then slam then down as they bounce and then kick them to launch them back as Laura and Fie launch a Duo attack as Fie warm around them with windy phantom slashes as Laura strike through with one strike, causing their defeat.

The monsters defeat soon made the whole area flash in white...

(BGM paused)

---

Back to the group...

(Resuming Behind the Lore)

"Well that was fast." Futaba said as Laura's team came out.

"Eh, What did you expect?" Fie said. "I felt a power up."

"Same here." Mario said.

"Me too." Luigi said,

"Huh. It seems I'm the only one." Laura mused as they keep going.

They begin to arrived at a large area where they spotted another Trial Chest.

"Oh. Another Trial Chest." Levi said.

"Huh. I can feel it's calling to me." Rean said

"I felt it too." Levi said.

"Same with me." Ragna said.

"And me." Jin fold his arms. "Well, let's get this over with." He said as they open it and got suck into the Trial Chest.

(BGM paused)

---

In the Trial Chest...

(Resuming Erosing of Madness)

"Greeeat. So we're fighting some ugly spider with some humans face." Ragna said as they see Arachne Zigma

"Let's get this over with." Jin said as they form combat links.

Arachne Zigma unleash an evil eye attack onto them but they dodged as Rean and Levi zoom and unleash slashes onto it while Jin jump up and unleash a slash that created once to prison it as Ragna channel dark energy, place added fangs and unleash a claw slash onto the Spider Monster. It begin to spew webs onto them but Jin used his ice powers to freeze the webs before shattering it. Then Jin created Ice Shards toward it to freeze it as Rean imbued his Tachi with crimson fire and then unleash a combo strike before he strike through it as Ragna launch a dark energy punch and slashes. Arachne Zigma broke free and screech at them until Levi imbued his Glaive with power and he jump over the Spider and unleash a powerful slash as Jin unleash a powerful wide slash, causing the Spiker Monster to screech before Rean used True Helix onto it as it burn to crimson fire before it vanished

The area soon glow in a white void.

(BGM ended)

(Resuming Behind the Lore)

"Welcome back. So which one of you got the upgrade?" Makoto Nanaya asked.

"I felt something change within me." Rean said.

"Huh. I felt it too." Levi mused.

"Same. I guess all three of us did." Ragna said.

"I don't feel any different with my brace order. But enough. We got places to be." Jin said

"While you guys were dealing with the chest. Altina and I found a perfect secrery to take picture and send it to Rex. You wouldn't believe what we got." Venti said.

"With Rex?" Rean asked

"Ah. Speaking of Rex. Rean. Did you know he took pictures of Elise behind your back?" Levi asked with a grinned on his face.

"What?" Rean asked as his eyes dull for a moment.

"Oh boy..." Alisa sweatdrop.

"Yep. See for yourself." Levi show him the picture fo Elise.

"..." Rean stare at the picture. "I'll be sure to have a goooood talk with him." Rean said with a smile that's scary.

"But he didn't stop there. I'm not sure how, but he also took pictures of Fiona, Alfin, Vita, and Sully."

"He sent us a picture of Sharon." Altina said.

"Say what?!" Alisa yelled as she look at the picture. "Reeeeeex!"

---

With Rex...

"Ooh... What's this sudden chill?" Rex wondered

"Apom?" Rex's Apom tilt his head.

---

Back with the group...

"Sounds like this Rex person is a creepy person. Or a pervert." Blake sweatdrop as they keep going.

"How the heck did he managed to get a clear picture of Sharon!?" Alisa grumbled.

"Um... So guys. If it all right with you. Can we see this statue you talk about? I mean after this?" Ruby asked

"Of course, If you like. I can just create a portal there and we can all make a quick pique."

"I wouldn't mind making the trip." Gaius said.

"I'm kinda curious now." Naoto Kurogane said.

"Okay, Let's make one quick stop." Rean said as Levi created a portal leading there and everyone then see the Ancient statue.

"Whoooooa." Ruby said in awe.

"Wow... that's definitely an ancient statue." Yang said.

"Man, hard to believe it's been two months already." Ash said,

"This is impressive." Jusis comment.

"It's even bigger than I'd imagine..." Alisa said

"I saw it with Group B back when we were students, but it's still just as imposing." Elliot said

"Wow. It like a legend with this statue." Annette said.

"So this is Sept-Terrion of Fire... correct?" Byleth asked

"That's right. This is Ark Rouge, the Sept-Terrion of Fire." Emma nodded "The Hexen Clan has watched over it for generations."

"And the other piece of the puzzle is Lost Zem, which is under the Gnomes' care, right?" Claude asked

"Correct. When the two clashed, they gave birth to the Sept-Terrion of Steel."

"That's right. Lost Zem's remains went flying all the way to the Nord Highlands, while Ark Rougue's ended up here." Musse nodded

"Wow. It must have been quite a battle." Tails said."But the two Sept-Terrions merge together to create the Great One, causes the formal vessels into husk if I recall."

"Knowing what we do know, it's easy to see why I couldn't sense anything back then." Rean said. "The Two Sept-Terrions fused to become something beyond human comprehension."

"And what's how the Divine Knights were created right? To split that power into seven?" Dorothea asked.

"What a fascinating legend the people of Zemuria have. But it is also strange." Petra said. "From what I understand thus far and why it was forged due to humanity's past actions. Why would this great power suddenly bring forth a curse?"

"I also wonder about the same thing." Edelgard admits. "While the fault of both the ancestors of both Kin of Fire and Earth for creating the Great One over their greed. I do not see how the curse would make its appearance."

"Hmm. Perhaps there are some knowledge that still alude us. The only one who might know is Chancellor Osborne, his lackeys, and Ouroboros." Hubert said. "We can also count on Organization XII, and most likely Fawful, Salem, and the Agarthans also knows its secret."

"Either way, those events are what led to the Great Twilight bring released." Alisa said.

"Crow, King Bowser and Professor Kokonow does seem to hold the keys to all this, the only thing we can do is chase them down and get them to tell us what they knows." Jusis stated.

"Right. We can't make other plans yet until we know the whole story." Levi nodded. "We need to head to the Sol Shrine. Back to the portal everyone." Levi said.

The group resume back to traveling until they encounter a single Scaluptera and a Nevermore together.

"Ooh, look! There's a monster and a Grimm!" Nora said. "They seem rather organized. It won't be an easy fight." Ren said. "however, there are many of us here. We can overwhelm and defeat them."

"You're right." Rean draw his Tachi. "However..." Then two more Scaluptera, four Advanced Ursa and six Wyvern made their appearance.

"Huh. It seems we have more to deal with." Urbosa said.

"Hmph. We can still defeat those things either way." Revalie said. "They no different than regular monsters."

"Maybe, but don't forget. The Great Twilight also somehow made them stronger." Mipha pointed out. "Well... for the monsters I mean."

Rean close his eyes. "Levi. Can I ask you to place a limiter on me?"

"A limiter?" Levi raised an eyebrow before he catch on. "Don't tell me you're going to used that power as a Sacrifice are you?"

"I am." Rean nodded. "You're the only one capable of limiting the curse to not let me be consumed."

"That is true..." Emma said, turning to Levi with everyone else.

"G-Guys... You're staring..." Levi's cheeks blushed as he scratched his cheeks. "All all right. I was wondering when you'll ask." He turn to Rean, channel a sphere of light from his hand and flew directly toward Rean's chest where Rean felt a reaction.

"...!' Rean shivered as he knee down.

"Rean, are you okay?!"

"Yeah. I'm all right. Just felt a reaction. I can feel it working." Rean got back on his feet. "I'm feeling fine now. Okay. I'm going to try it out. But this is also good practice for our Pokemon too."

"Now that you mention it." Venti said.

"Yes. I agree." Altina nodded

"Okay, but we'll support you when you need it." Alisa said.

"Thank you." Kurt pull out his Pokeball. "Let's go, Honedge!"

"Sandile, let's go!"

"You too Fidough!"

"Archen, come on!"

"You too Ducklett!"

"Gligar, let's go!"

New Class VII summon their said Pokemon to join the fight.

"All right. I'll be counting on you guys to watch my back." Rean said.

"Right!" Everyone yelled as they charged in.

(BGM paused)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Rebust One)

The group charge as the monsters charge back at them.

The three Scaluptera unleashed their fire breath while the Wyverns dash toward to ram them. However, Urbosa snapped her finger to strike them with lightning while Rean used Demon Unchained to awaken his power as the Sacrifice and used Supreme Internal Gale gale while Levi followed up by using Penetrate Hurl and struck them. Ash's Sandile sued crushed on one of the Scaluptera's tail as it screech while Fidough used Baby Doll Eyes to weaken their attack level as Juna, Kurt, Ash, and Fie launched their attacks as Ruby dash in and launch a few slashes onto the Nervermore. Honedge used Nightslash and strike the Wyvern while Venti, Musse, Alisa, Revalie shoot their shots and arrows onto them as Daruk jump over one of the Wyverns and slam into them. Ducklett used Air Slash while Archen used Ancient Power on them. The monsters roared as each of them launch their assault but Mario and Luigi combine their Firebrand and Thunderhand to a fire lighting attack.

"FIRE DRAGON ROAR!"

"SKY DRAGON ROAR!"

"IRON DRAGON ROAR!"

The Three Dragon Slayers unleash their attacks onto them as Weiss summon projections from her Gylph as Blake dash with Yang to slash and punch them.

The Ursa jump to ran toward Ragna, but Noel Vermillion launch bulets toward as Taokaka dash toward it and letting out a powerful kick to knock it back, saving Ragna's hide. Hubert rained down dark magic blades and then channel his magic to unleash a dark wave toward them to slow them down as Claude used the Combat Art; Wind God to strike them. Altina used her Bomb Magic to exploded on them as Venti used his Craft: Stormeye 2 to gather them and strike them, adding Altina's Bomb Magic. Ducklett used Bubble Beam as Archen use Rockslide on them as Fidough used Play Rough on Ursa. The three Scaluptera launch a screech and fire breath attack and Natsu ate it. Machias shoot at them as Elliot created a tornado to pull them in as Laurea extended her Great Sword and unleash a powerful slash on them as Sara launch lighting slashes and then launch bullets attack.

Petra and Dorothea launch their attack as Dorothea use Thoron and Petra to strike them. Levi use Spiral Pillar as Rean finish them off with True Helix.

(BGM ended)

(Resuming Behind the Lore)

Suddenly. Sandile along with Fidough begin to evolve into Dachsbun and Krokorok.

"Ah! Fidough evolve!" Juna cheered

"Nice! Sandile too!" Ash grinned as both scan their Pokemon.

"Krokorok, the Desert Croc Pokémon, and the evolved form of Sandile. A Ground and Dark Type. The special membrane that covers Krokorok's eyes detects heat, which allows it to see in the dark." Ash's Pokedex answered

" Dachsbun. The Dog Pokemon. A Fairy pleasant aroma that emanates from this Pokémon's body helps wheat grow, so Dachsbun has been treasured by farming villages. The surface of this Pokémon's skin hardens when exposed to intense heat, and its body has an appetizing aroma." Juna's Pokedex answered

"Ooooh~ I can see why Oscar is so fooond of you~" Juna cheered

"Woof!" Juna's Dachsbun bark as he jump to Juna's arm and lick her face.

"Ahahaha! Who's such a good boy~ You are! Ahahaha! That tickles! You smell so good~"

"Well, you look total badass Krokorok." Ash said with a high five.

"Krokorok." Ash's Krokorok respond with a smug look on its safe.

"Congratulations with you guys. We need to train our Pokemon too." Altina said.

"Indeed. We should keep it up." Kurt nodded.

"Haha. Congratulations you guys." Rean smiled as he draw his Tachi away. "Looks like they gave a lot of experience upon defeat."

"Perhaps we should add our Pokemon into the fun too." Levi chuckled. "But other then that. It look like it work."

"Yeah. I can feel the power you place inside me seem to have work. I didn't feel like any chance really."

"Probably because there was so many of us that the battle went smoothly." Levi remark.

"Maybe. But with the limiter you place on me. I shouldn't have any problem. Thanks for looking out for me as usual Levi." Rean smiled

"It's no problem. I guess I'm lucky to have these mysterious powers of mine."

"Probably. Though you seem to be lucky."

"Don't you start with this." Levi sighed.

"All right, you too. We shouldn't keep Crow, waiting. Come on." Sara said as they nodded and took off. Unknown to them, a Weavile was hiding from the distance and took off.

The group continue to walk a little further until they reach two pathways.

"Okay, if we take a left, it will lead us to the boathouse while on the right is where the shine is." Levi said.

"Let's take a look around first to make sure it's safe." Kurt said as they nodded and take a small tour to the lodge.

"There's the dock, and the lodge we stayed in for our field studies two years back." Elliot said

"Yeah. Split rooms between guys and girls, just like our floors at the dorms." Machias nodded

Laura chuckled. "Back then, I could never have imagined that Fie and I would be this close."

"Don't go digging up the past like that." Fie giggled.

"Sounds like you two had a wild ride." Felix said.

"It doesn't seem to be anyone here. Let's head back." Sylvain said as they took toward the Sol Shrine.

"Whoa, you'd think it had always been here." Fie said.

"It was just a tiny roadside alter two years ago." Elliot recalled.

"Yeah, and it never would've shown up either if we hadn't run around the island and activated all those crest-looking things." Juna nodded.

"And it's thanks to the pendant you lovely made for Instructor Rean, Emma." Musse gigged.

"Oh, well… I'm glad to hear that, heehee." Emma nervously laughed.

"From what I hear, Rose paid you a visit, didn't she?" Celine asked.

"Yeah, but only Rean and I were able to notice her." Levi replied. "Everyone else in our group was frozen in time."

"Hmm. Roselia must be powerful to pause time like that." Byleth said.

"Not to mention, Millium was held captive in the area just up ahead." Jusis recalled.

"That is most likely the place we want." Altina replied.

"Are you prepared, Instructor? I doubt we'll be of much use, but we'll support you however we can." Kurt said.

"Yeah. It's time we have some talk with Crow and the others." Machias nodded

"Though I may be inclined to challenge Duvalie to a duel should she be present…" Laura said.

"We also forget that Kokonoe, Tager, Litchi are in there too." Makoto Nanya said

"Not to mention Lissa and Morgan." Chrom added

"Wario, Waluigi." Daisy continued.

"Shadow, Rouge, Omega, Kammy." Sonic added

"Mona, Shez and Arval too." Kazuha fold his arm.

"We might see Bowser and anyone else." Mario added

"We're ready, Schwarzer." Ash said.

"Thanks, everyone." Rean replied. "To tell you the truth, I don't know how this is going to end. But I know I want you here with me, whatever happens."

"Oh, we're not going anywhere, Rean. Count on it." Alisa nodded

"I dunno about just watching, though. If things get really bad we might have to butt in." Juna said.

"It is time to show the world what you have to offer, Instructor." Altina said.

(BGM ended)

(Super Mario Galaxy ost - Deep Dark Galaxy)

The group then begin to enter the Spirit Shrine where Levi notice something change within the Shine.

"Whoa. It definitely screams ruins." Amy said.

"That isn't the only thing. Look at above us." Levi pointed

"Are the crystals glowing?" Edelgard asked

"It looks completely different from how it was two months ago." Rean recalled.

"Yeah. It was just ruined… but now glowing crest everywhere." Levi recalled

"Really?" Juna asked

"That's right, the spirit veins have been activated." Gaius nodded.

"It likely has something to do with the Rivalries." Emma added

"Well, only way to find out is to keep going." Celine replied.

As they walk down the stairs, they spotted the stone door where they opened it and see on the other side was Crow, his Weavile, Duvalie, Shadow, Rogue, Omega, Kammy, Shez, Arval, Tager, Litchi, Kokonoe, Bowser, Kamek, Mona, Morgan, Wario, Waluigi, Lissa, and Lambda standing in the center while Ordine is behind them.

"You made it." Tager said in responsence.

"Yo, you guys showed up a lot faster than I expected." Crow added. "Not fast enough though. Time's not really on our side here."

"You're here after all." Laura said to Duvalie.

"Well, you made it pretty clear that we didn't have a choice in the matter." Rean replied. "That said, it's good to see you again. You too, Duvalie, Mona, Shez, Arval, Lissa, Morgan, Tager, Litchi, Wario, Waluigi, Lambda, Shadow, Rogue, Omega, and Kammy. I also see King Bowser, Kamek, and Professor Kokonoe with you. Thanks for taking the time to meet with us."

"No problem." Rouge respond.

"Wh-what's with the casual hello? We are not friends. Your thanks is nothing more than a pittance to me." Duvalie responded. "Personally, I'd rather not have to see this sordid scene play itself out. But this is the path I've chosen."

"Sordid scene?" Kurt repeated.

"And what exactly do you mean by that?" Felix asked.

"I take it has something to do with the Rivalries?" Yu asked.

"Good. At least that's everyone here. You took your sweet time." Kokonoe fold her arms. "But in any case, we go ahead and tell you about the Rivalries."

"There's no need. We already learn what the Rivalries are, thanks to Xehanort." Rean said.

(BGM ended)

"Oh, did he now?" Kokonoe raised an eyebrow. "Well, that makes this easier and less time explaining then."

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - In the Darkness of Ignorance)

"So Xehanort and that Eraqus guy, right is with you guys now?" Crow asked

"Indeed we are." Xehanort said as he step up.

Bowser glared. "I thought the others were joking... but to think you of all people are here."

"But why is he with you guys?" Lissa asked

"Xehanort is brought back to life by some mysterious force. And whatever that force is monitoring him." Palutena answered.

"A mysterious force, huh?" Shadow asked.

"Right. Thanks to him, we learn about the Rivalries and what they are. Of course, not many are still happy to see him, but he did provided us valuable information." Sara said.

"And good luck trying to kill him if you guys wanna. Turns out that he's immortals like the Steel Maiden and the boss." Fie said. "Still, Xehanort join us to atone his actions."

"Atone his actions, huh?" Shez asked.

"And that applies to the other gentlemen there?" Arval asked.

"Yes. But I am not just to monitor Xehanort, but to also help him get through this." Eraqus nodded.

"I see." Kamek tuck in his glasses. "I think I understand the circumstances Xehanort has got himself into."

"Crow, Duvalie, there are some questions we want to ask you. Vita was trying to trigger a pseudo-Rivalry, correct?" Emma asked

"Then there's the experiments Ouroboros conducted with the three Aions over the course of the past year. They were trying to see if the Rivalries could be artificially reproduced. Is that right?" Celine asked.

"Yes. I was never privy to the particulars but, they were seeking to awaken the tremendous power brought forth by the fusion of the two Sept-Terrions." Duvalie said. "The experiments were a means to an end, a bid to turn melees into miracles."

"That's more or less covers it. Vita's been searching for ages for a way to keep the curse in check. Although it was never part of the plan to cause the distortion. That was an accident that no one foresaw." Crow said.

"Regardless be an accident or not. The pseudo-Rivalry is what Vita is after. To make sure that curse is kept in check." Kokonoe fold her arms. "But now that the curse is released, the Awakeners will have to force into this Rivalry business as the world is ushered by war."

"I honestly don't like this. This whole Great Twilight puts a bad taste in my mouth. But it doesn't seem to be any choice for all Awakeners either." Bowser said. "And for what Osborne and the Gnomes are after. Regardless, you must do what you had to do." Bowser said as he stepped up next to Crow as he pull out his Double Saber.

"Wait. Is that the reason why you're here Bowser? To start the Rivalry?" Peach asked.

"Yes. But there's a silver lining to it. Wouldn't you agree Crow?"

Crow nodded "Yeah. Kokonoe, Bowser, Roman, Morgan, Tager, Neo, Shadow, Rouge, Kammy, Kamek, Mona, Litchi and myself know an opportunity when we see one. The war hasn't started yet. Maybe if we get a jump on this, we can detail the Gnome's plans. But the second the Empire launches its attack on the Republic..."

"Yeah. As the Sacrifice, I'd be forced to engage in the Rivalries. Whether I like it or not." Rean nodded

"Heh, nail on the head." Crow replied. "You'd either go berserk, or your memories would get sealed away, turning you into mindless puppets. The only one who can prevent you from being a mindless puppet, is Levi himself."

(BGM ended)

Rean drew out his sword. "Then now may be the last chance I have. Before my memories are snatched away. Before I'm forced to duel to the death, devoid of all sense and reason. I can still see this Rivalry through with my own eyes. Triumph or fail by my own merit."

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Belief- SAV-)

Rean pointed his Tachi at Crow and Bowser. "I stand before you Crow. As a swordsman of the Eight Leaves, and a member of Class Vll. Even if it's the last thing I ever do, I'll do so as myself: Rean Schwarzer."

"And for the sake of everyone... no... the entire world, we'll put a stop to the Gnome's plans." Levi added as he pull out his glaive.

"Hah, there you go." Crow replied.

"But Crow won't be doing this alone." Morgan said as she, Shez, Kamek, Tager, Lambda and Duvalie stood with him and Bowser.

"That's right. We'll help too." Shez nodded as he pull out his swords.

"In order to save this world, to stop the Empire, we will trigger this Rivalry for ourselves. And if things go as planned. We will use this plan to counter the Great Twilight." Kamek nodded.

"But. I order to do so, we need to set the stage just like back in the Infernal Castle and Ouroboros' experiments." Tager said

"Right." Duvalie pull out her sword and shield as Bowser, Morgan, Kamek, Tager and Lambda got their battle stance. "Appoint eight allies to assist you. Only then shall we take you on."

"All right." Rean nodded as he thinks who to choose. "Aside from Levi, Venti, Laura, Edelgard, Sora, Kirito, Wendy, Lysithea and Ruby.

"Got it." Ruby nodded as she and said names approached next to Levi and Rean and pulled out their weapons.

"Excellent." Morgan smiled as she, Crow and Duvalie began to glow and used Radiant Star Formation.

"Huh? What was that?" Lysithea asked.

"The Radiant Star Formation... So you can do it without the Stalritters, huh?" Levi asked

"Huh. Guess this is as good a stage as we're gonna get." Crow smirked as he cover his left eye. "We don't quite meet the full requirement, but hey. A passing grade's a passing grade. All right then!" He swing his arm. "Let's do this, Rean! Let's see if you had what it takes!"

"Lovely speech Crow." Levi replied. "You show us your resolve. But now we will fight with our resolve!"

"We're ready… Let's do this guys!" Rean shout.

"Right!" Rean's Team yelled

Crow's Rivalry Team

Koopa of Fire and Steel - Bowser

The Red Devil - Tager

The Shifting Shadow - Shez

Azure Awakener - Crow Armbrust

Kokonoe's Golden Sword - Lambda-11

The Grand Magikoopa Sorceror - Kamek

Soon to be Armbrust - Morgan

Knight who follow the Light - Duvalie

Rean form a combat link with Levi, Venti, form a link with Wendy, Laura link with Ruby, Edelgard link with Lysithea, and Sora link with Kirito.

On the opposite side

Crow form a three-way link with Morgan and Duvalie as the main linker. Bowser form a three way link with Shez and Kamek and Tager form a combat link with Lambda.

Bowser unleashed a fire breath attack onto the group and Levi unleashed a slash projection to cancel the flames, but Shez dahs toward and launch a powerful slash on Levi as Kamek fired projection toward the group as they dodged while others engaged in battle.

Laura dash toward Bowser as Ruby used Crescent Rose to boost her lunge and launched swings of Crescent Rose as Bowser as he block with his arms as Laura swing her Great Sword heavily and grace, but Bowser dodged and then punched Laura while Shez launched a powerful slash onto Ruby as she flip tor recovered.

"SKY DRAGON ROAR!" Wendy unleash a stream of air from her moth toward Tager and Lambda as Tager stook his ground to restrain the wind as Lambda warp toward Wendy to knock her back with a kick as Venti blasted a stream of wind magic to push Lambda back.

"Spark Bolt!" Tager shoot a bolt of Electricity toward Venti and strike him cover in electricity as Tager then pulls him with magnets, grabs him and slams him heavily on the ground.

Venti used his his magic to push Tager off but slightly as Lambda warp in front of him to slash him, but Venti backflip and then shot an arrow at Lambda as her wings forma shield before dashing toward him.

Crow and Rean swing at each other as Morgon cast Thoron on Rean to push him back as Duvalie zoom toward him to strike him, but Levi block the attack and push Duvalie before he launch rapid jabs. Duvalie block it as Lysithea cast Dark Spike onto Crow, Morgan and Duvalie as they dodged and Edelgard slam her axe on the ground to create a power surge of fire to burst under Morgan as Sora and Kirito rush in to join them.

However, Shez snapped his finger and cast Hades to block Shez and Kirito's movement as Bowser curl into his Shell and Shez kick it to launch toward the two to strike them before got out of his shell, grabbed them, spin around and throw them toward the others while Kamek rain down magical shapes and then conjure fireballs. Kirito and Sora recovered as they both counter the projections as Shez ran toward them to let out a flurry of slashes. Sora block it and reflect it back at him with Reflega as Kirito launch his own twin slashes.

Shez recovered and they both swing at each other.

"It's nice to have a fellow Duel wielder other then Kurt to have swordplay with." Kirito said

"Same to you. Then let's have a competition to which one of us earns the top." Shez smirked before he move out of the way and then flip horizontal and slash downward on Kirito.

"Here we go!" Sora used Formchange as his Keyblade swirl and change into Mikazuki tachi and then lung toward Shez and launch superhuman speed slashes at him.

Shez took some of the damage before he form a defensive form by his sword form an X block form, and once Sora attack got hit. He parry Sora's attack.

"Gotcha!" Shez alerted for Bowser to punch Sora as Kamek fire magic on the ground where earth spikes were launch toward him and strike him.

"Ugh!" Sora grunted as he recovered and lung toward Bowser.

Duvalie launch a few swings at Lysithea as she block with Magic then form a shockwave to push her as Morgan pull out Levin Swing to strike her. But Edelgard combat link ability: Protective Wall protected her as Levi used his craft: Spiral Pillar to pull Crow, Duvalie and Morgan toward him as he launch to the air with wind slashes strike them, then plunged to the ground with Glaive blade energy struck them next.

"Now you're mine!" Levi alerted for Rean to attack the opening on Crow.

Crow recovered along with Morgan and Duvalie as Morgan's Valflame Tome glow and then she summoned several hotspots and burst out a large sphere of fire around the battlefield as Crow jump into the air, flip and then started shooting, raining down several bullets on the battlefield as Crow's team jump back as Rean's team took the damage. Kamek channel his wand toward the floor and it to go liquified trapped in the group.

"What the-?!" Lysithea exclaimed.

"The ground it!" Venti exclaimed as they sink.

"It similar to that of Richard's magic..." Erza quietly remark as Bowser shoot meteors from his mouth to rain down onto Rean's steam as they got blasted into the air as Lambda spread her arms to summon a large magic circle to rain down barricade of swords onto them.

"Target lock." Lambda alerted for Tager to strike Edelgard and knock her back with a swing of his strength.

Rean's team recovered.

"Let me play you a song." Venti begin to use his craft: Wind Chain 2 as he pulls out a magical harp and starts playing a gentle soothing tone As Wind Chain appeared over his team's heads the wind hit the wind chains with a soothing sound and green sparkles buffed them with Insight and Stamina recovery.

"Stand as one! Eagle Armor!" Edelgard activated her Brave Order to buff her team as they were buffed with DEF/ATF with L as Rean used his Craft Arcane Gale to strike toward Crow, Shez, Kamek, Bowser, Morgan and Tager and unleash a strike slash projection wave as Levi follow up with a slash toward Morgan.

Edelgard throw her shield in the air and dash toward Tager as they both swing at each other while Lambda dash toward to aid tager, but Lysithea cast Mire to force her to dodged as Edelgard's shield struck her on the air and Sora dash toward her and unleash combo slashes before switching to Valkyries lance and launch a powerful trust to launch Lambda toward Tager and knock his head for Edelgard to gripped Amyr and swing upward to knock Tager and Lambda in the air as Sora aerial trust them, dash around them with jabs and then switch to Bolvert and swirl slash them before Lysithea jump into the air with a large magic sphere in her hands and throw it at Tager and Lambda and slam them into the ground with a purple fire explosion.

Bowser was knocked back by Kirito as Sora then join him after his battle in midair. Sora and Kirito dashed until Bowser punch the ground to shake their balance off as Shez warp between them and launch a spin jump purple energy slash. Ruby used Petal Burst as she and Shez swing at each other until Ruby swirl scythe slash him and then Laura launch a few swing slashes to knock him back as Kamek summon magical projections at them. Laura and Ruby deflected them as Shez recovered, used Shadowflash and warp behind them as Laura sense it and then swing her sword to stop Shez's surprise attack. But Shez jump to avoid and kick Laura's face.

"SKY DRAGON WING ATTACK!" Wendy swing her arms to unleash a stream of air to blast Shez back as Venti used his magic to generate a large glowing light green Bow to shoot wind arrows to rain down on Crow's team.

Venti then begin to cast: Albion Wolf as it summoned and shoot a large energy beam as Kamek conjured a barrier to deflect it, but it later begin to crack and blasted him.

"Eeeek!" Kamek was rolling before he recovered, causing Bowser's combat link ability Fury to activate as he growl.

Bowser dash toward Venti and then launch a few claw and punches as Venti dodge them before shooting his arrow to counterattack. Bowser use his arm to block it until he used Bowser Bomb to roll to his left as Kamek fire a magic beam at him to knock him back.

SKY DRAGON CLAW!" Wendy generated a large wind slash from her kick toward Kamek.

Lambda rash toward Kirito as they swing at each until Lambda warp around Kiriot to confused him until Lambda appeared from above and shoot a large sword to crush him. Kirito dodged by flipping to his left and then used Horizontal Square on her and then launch rapid jabs and slashes to push her back. Tager dash toward Kirito to paunch him, but Kirito block it, but his strength. Sora airstep toward Tager and launch a series of keyblade swings at him but Tager block with his arms as Lambda grabbed Sora and slam him down.

"Take this!" Kirito used Vorpal Strike as he dash toward Tager to strike him and knock him back.

"Not bad, Kirito. But it takes more then-" Tager was interrupted as Sora finish move was summon all three weapons to launch a full assault of hacking/slashing and trusting onto Tager and Lambda. "Gah!" Before a large pillar of light sky rocket from them.

Sora then shotlock Tager and Lambda with Septium Divine as Sora summon hordes of Zemuria's elemental swords and launch a full strike onto them as Kirito use Starmburst Stream onto them as Sora follow up by Keyblade combo.

Levi summon magical blades of light and launch them toward Crow who swirl his Double Saber to repel it as Duvalie created clones of herself and each dash toward Levi. Edelgard got between them and then used Firebrand to generate a fiery tornado before launch them toward them. Morgan however, counter it with Excalibar as a large tornado power struggle with it until exploding. Morgan swirl her arms as several magical orbs surround her then spread her arms and the orbs light up, transform into magic circles and each fire sphere onto Rean, Levi, Edelgard, and Lysithea.

Lysithea channel both Light and Dark Magic from her hands and clapped them together to form a light and dark shockwave to repel the orbs and launch toward the group. Duvalie raised her sword high as it charge with a light energy and swing down her sword to cut through the shockwave. Crow switch to his Pistols and then summon large red energy blades.

"Cross Rebellion!" Then unleash a powerful X slashed that knock Rean, Edelgard, Levi and Lysithea back.

"Prisim Calibar!" Duvalie launch toward them with her S craft and strike them.

"Valflame, Forseti, Mjölnir!" Morgan channel all three large magic circles around her and then raised her arm as raining down were fire, wind and thunder pillars around Rean, Levi, Edelgard and Lysithea as they taken in the immense damage.

Rean snarl before he took his stance. Then his eyes and begin to used his S-Craft onto them.

"Ashen Crimson Leaves!" Rean unleash a storm of slashes onto Crow, Morgan and Duvalie as Levi's imbued his Glaive with the seven elements and change form into a rainbow empowered Glaive, then send out five wide large slashes with the imbued elements and shape into the stars.

"Rune Stella!" Levi then launched a wider slash of rainbow projection.

Suddenly, the flow of aura was around, causing the others to stop fighting.

(BGM ended)

"This glow..." Mona look around.

"So this is the Rivalry." Shadow mused.

"The stage is set. The preparations is now complete." Arval said.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Rivalry of the Seven - Excellion Krieg-)

"All right. That's enough." Bowser said as he and the others turn to Crow. "This is as far as we go. The rest is up to you two, Crow."

"Right!" Crow nodded. "We're up, Ordine!"

"Understood, Crow." Ordine got up as he approached and then Crow then enter his Cockpit while Bowser, Shez, Morgan, Kamek, Tager, Kokonoe, Lambda, Duvalie, Shadow, Rogue, Omega, Kammy, Wario and Waluigi stepped away along with Levi, Edelgard, Sora, Kirito, Venti, Lysithea, Ruby, Laura, and Wendy.

Rean raised his arm. "Valimar! Heed my call!" He yelled as Valimar appeared behind him and then enter the socket and then pull out the Sword of the End.

"Instructor Rean, Millium..." Altina said.

"They'll be all right." Levi assured. "Rean has us to support him, always."

"Short stack...still glowing red, huh?" Crow asked. "But whatever. That sword ain't that much stronger than one made out of Zemurian Ore." Ordine pointed his Double Saber at Crow. "Don't hold back, Rean. Come at me with all you've got!"

"Got it!" Rean responded. "There are more questions I like to ask you, but that will have to wait. Now... Let's begin!"

"Hwaaaah/Nuaaagh!" Both Awakeners charge at each other.

Azure Knight who gleams - Ordine

Valimar and Ordine swing at each other as Ordine jump back and then throw his Double Saber at Valimar who dodged, however, Ordine launch toward him.

"..!" Rean flinched as Ordine struck Valimar with two punches as the Double Saber struck him in the back and return to Crow's hand, pushing Valimar back.

Ordine swirl his weapon and took a stance and then Swing at Valimar as he block it and then swing back at him. Valimar launch a few swing of the Sword of the End at Ordine before he swirl his Doubel Saber and then unleash a large blue slash projection as Valimar deflect it by slicing it into two. Ordine then launch jabs attack toward Valimar but he block it. Valimar then dahs toward Ordine and then strike him and form a helix strike. Ordine recovered as he imbued power into his Double saber and then swirl his Double Saber and dash toward Valimar as he slide to his left and then Ordine closewise slash to push Valimar back.

'He's being pushed back. Is Rean losing his touch or is Crow gotten even better?' Levi thought as Valimar recovered and imbued power into the Sword of the End and then lung toward Ordine.

Valimar launch a few horizontal slashes as Ordine block them before swirl and then slash. Valimar slide to avoid the slash and then launch a series of slashes onto Ordine. Ordine then punch Valimar, but he block it and then parry him and then launch a few slashes onto him.

Ordine lock it and then swirl his double saber and then launch a few jabs at him. Valimar dodge each one and then took a stance and unleash a powerful slashes with crimson flames to his right before swinging down. Ordvine recovered and then swirl his Double Saber before throwing as Valimar took a Morning Moon Stance and dodge it. Valimar then counterattacks by striking Ordine.

"Tch!" Crow grunted "Is that the best you got?" He asked before activating Boost engine and empower him.

"Far from it. This is where the real battle begins!" Rean respond as they both dash and swing at each other.

Both Divine Knights push each other back as Ordine Double Saber unleash launch slashes toward Valimar as he dodged. Ordine then dash toward Valimar to swing at him as Valimar block and they both swing at each other again. Valimar was push back. But Valimar took a Morning Moon stance and unleash a powerful slash to push Ordine back. Ordine charge his Double Saber with energy and then unleash a powerful strike on Valimar but he dodge and counterattacked. Valimar then unleash a helix slash and then he unleash a swing combo attack before striking through him with phantom slashes.

Ordine took immense damage but it wasn't enough as he turn to Valimar and then unleash a rapid struck attack before dashing through with a strike. Valimar also took immense damage but Valimar took a stance as Both Rean and Crow let out a warcry and then both of them unleash their assault on each other. Ordine launch slashes by Ordine's shoulder while Ordine strike on Valimar's rub side. Ordine then parry Valime and then punch Valimar's guts and then unleash a powerful horizontal slash on his left. Valimar pushed back until he unleash a slash projection at Ordine as he block it. Valimar then dash forward as and clash with Ordine.

The two of them swing at each other into a power struggle until both push each other away. Both of them charge at each other again, swinging at each other and damaging each other until Valimar and Valimar lock into a power struggle until Rean let out a warcry to push Ordine as Crow respond back, locking them back into a power struggle until they push each other away. Ordine and Valimar charge at each other until as both ready their weapons for the attack. Valimar and Ordine then launch their as Crow strike Valimar, but he block in time and parry Ordine, knocking his Double Saber off his arm and unleash a powerful slash on Ordine, knocking it down to its knee.

(BGM ended)

"Rean did it." Levi said.

"It's over." Duvalie muttered.

"Does this mean the Rivalry is complete?" Kurt asked.

"Yeah. Looks like our little improv routine did the trick." Crow answered said as Ordine then begin to lead a transpirate glow.

"Huh. Is he glowing?" Bernedetta asked

"No. Ordine's power will go into Valimar's now." Kokonoe said as Crow came out of Ordine and was on his knees.

(Fire Emblem Fates ost - Premonition)

"Crow!" Morgan yelled as she and everyone else rush to him as Morgan knee down to check on him. "Are you okay?!"

"Yeah. I'm good. I been through worse." Crow respond with a smile as they see a spark of power from Ordine's is going into Valimar. "Just as Kokonoe said. Ordine's power is Valimar's now. 'Course it also means I'm no longer an Awakener. Each successive Rivalry will lead you to the root of this curse."

"But are you okay with this? Not be able to pilot Ordine?" Ingrid asked.

"Yeah. I've done my part. I may not be able to pilot Ordine anymore, but I can still fight. Though I kinda imagine what it would be life if Bowser hasn't given me that 1-Up Mushroom. Heh. Glad we don't have to go through that." He got back on his feet before turning to Ordine. "Thanks Ordine. Thanks for backing me up to the very end."

"It was my pleasure Crow. A pity we could not continue fighting side by side. But I know you have what it takes for the next Rivalry." Ordine said

"No..." Rean said, causing everyone's attention turn to Valimar. "I may have been the victor... But I want Ordine to be with us. He already means so much to you Crow. Just as you do him. Is there some way he can still be with us and fight side by side?"

"And how exactly are you going to that? Reverse the flow?" Kokonow raised an eyebrow.

"Reverse... Ah!" Rean gasped before Valimar forward his arm toward Ordine.

Suddenly, the orbs that were going into Valimar started going out and back into Ordine.

"Huh? What the?" Aqua asked with a surprise look.

"Is Valimar..." Levi paused to his surprise.

"...stopped absorbing Ordine's power?" Emma guessed.

"That's not it. He's reversing the flow." Celine corrected.

"Inconceivable." Duvalie trailed off.

"The hell? How the hell is that possible? I was just joking. I didn't expect it would actually work!" Kokonoe exclaimed before noticing Ordine's was slowly coming back.

"Unbelievable... Is something happening to them?" Litchi asked.

"It must be. But what exactly?" Arval wondered.

(BGM ended)

Ordine's body soon flash and soon regains his appearance.

"Ordine... you're..." Crow gasped.

"... What... a curious turn of event." Ordine look at his arms. "I feel nothing has chance within me. However. My power reveals to be halve. It seem Valimar has the remaining part of my power. I do felt some sort of bond has been form between us. One that I bound to serve him."

"A bond?" Levi rub his chin. "Could it be... like a pact?"

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Things to Tell You)

"I would assume so. Yes. Regardless. I am back... and shall aid you." Ordine said

Crow then let out a heartly laugh. "Well... I'll be damn."

"Haha... No kidding..." Rean said, feeling vulnerable as he came out of Valimar.

"Rean, are you okay?" Levi asked as he and the others approach him.

"Yeah... I think I am. I felt exhausted, however. Did that battle take much of me?"

Levi sighed. "I guess you still haven't recovered much of your strength. But you did go all out on him."

"Hey, Schwarzer, what did you do just now?" Kokonoe approach him. "The Rivalry was supposed to absorb the Divine Knight. And yet. You somehow managed to alter that. What exactly did you do?"

"Easy on him professor!" Litchi exclaimed

"I don't know exactly but... The thought of Crow not piloting Ordine didn't sit right with me. Not after everything we been through together. So when you said, reverse. I thought I give it a try and... well... the rest is history."

"Not exactly an exclamation but... It will have to suffice." Kokonoe sighed. "Still. I'm not sure how you did it. But you did managed to bring Ordine back. Well... Either way. This is very fascinating stuff. Witnessing the Rivalry... and now this new information..." Kokonoe then rub her chin.

"Oh dear... there she goes again." Litchi said with a smile.

"Fascinating... I'm gonna need a minute to progress this."

"So, what exactly happened out here?" Venti asked.

"I can only make a guess based on the flow of mana, and what Ordine said earlier but... I believe Valimar has made Ordine into a servant of sorts." Emma replied

"Wait, really?" Ryuji asked.

"So like what the Dark Dragon did to those Calvardians? He's like...'Knighttouched', but...with a K?" Juna guessed.

"That's the stupidest word I ever heard." Shadow comment

"Hey!"

"Not quite." Celine answered. "Those soldiers were nothing more than slaves to their master's will. In this case, it's more of a matter of kinship. Or sharing a spiritual link, like the one Emma and I have."

"I see... So it's like my connections with Claiomh Solais." Altina replied

"Hmm... When Ordine said a pact... I can only speculate that it forms an agreement of sorts. "If I win. Then I want you to fight by my side until the end". Or something among those lines." Dimitri mused. "Either way. It does seem to be something of a Lord and Retainer."

"Just like I feel toward you, Dimitri." Dedue said.

"Myself with Lady- Ah. I keep doing that. With Edelgard." Hubert said before he let out a chuckled. "My, what a fascinating turn of event this has become. Still, this is an unexplained rule the Rivalry. We should make notice of this." Hubert said.

"Then it must have extended to the Awakeners too if you think about it." Edelgard said. "In order words, Crow must fight alongside Rean."

"Hold up!" Bowser said. "Just so you know, Crow is part of my army! He has already sworn his allegiance to me! I don't care what just happened, but there's no way in hell I'm letting you take my vassal from me!"

"Okay, then how about we put it this way, since you're quite passionate about it." Levi sweatdrop. "Crow Lost, but in return for not letting his Divine Knight being absorbed, he has to help Rean with his Rivalry. Is that better?"

Bowser rub his chin. "Yep. That's better."

"Well, either way, I can still help Rean out, since I am a member of Class VII. That is the plan, remember?" Crow asked.

"Yes it was. Do forgive us for taking Crow off your time during your search for the Singularity." Kamek said.

"Oh yeah! What was that all about, anyway?" Elliot asked.

"Sorry, everyone, but it's classified information." Mona said. "We can't risk of any eavesdroppers. But until the time is right. We'll tell you."

"She's right. Now that the Rivalry is completed. I see no reason for us to be here." Tager said.

"Well, why don't the rest of you join us in the Halbert?" Rean asked

"That's right. Everyone here wants to help out. You guys should too since our interests align." Laura nodded.

"Well... Is that all right with you, Your Majesty?" Mona asked.

"Well, I guess. However. I can't join just yet. But I can leave Crow, Shez, Arval, and Mona with you guys." Bowser said.

"You can count on us too." Rouge said. "We were busy with our own thing. But now that this situation is settled, we can finally join up. Right guys?"

"Affermiate." Omega said.

"Yep." Kammy nodded while Shadow let out a "hmph."

"If I must."

"Aww, come on, Shadow, don't be like that." Sonic chuckled.

"Unfortunately, I can't join you the rest of you. We'll be back in the Mushroom Kingdom for awhile, while Litchi have to babysit that brat for now." Kokonoe said

"Right. I'm worried Jona, especially since the Imperial Army considers him to be a nuisance with Tyrian after him." Litchi nodded

"I can't believe that would go that far to kill him though. Sure he can be annoying but still..." Juna grumbled.

"Man. A lot has happened. But hey, you can count on us to help you out." Shez smiled

"Right." Mona nodded as she turn to Duvalie. "What about you Duvalie?"

"Oh, so you remember that I'm still here." Duvalie sighed

"Of course we know you're still here. You help us a great deal."

"Well what I intend to do... is none of your concern. This is as far as my charity goes. Come tomorrow, I'll be going bye-bye."

"Duvalie, you excel in a lot of stuff." Levi smirk. "But I'm afraid white lies isn't one of them."

She looked away. "Urk..."

"Didn't you say something about getting to the bottom of Ouroboros' plans? So how exactly are you going to do that without any help or free transportation?"

"Well, I uh..."

"Come to think of it. You could have used that teleportation thing right?" Sora asked.

"Nnngh..."

"I'm... guessing that's a no?"

"Hmm..." Goofy think. "Maybe it only functions if you're a member of Ouroboros. Since Duvalie left. I don't think she can use it anymore."

"Rggggh..." Duvalie grumbled.

"In that case, I have an idea." Mona said. "Duvalie, why not join us instead?"

"Ex-CUSE me?! What kind of fool do you take me for!? I am- or, WAS a proud member of the Stalritter! The very idea is utterly ridiculous!"

"Maybe so, but we still owe you for backing us up at the Black Workshop." Rean pointed out. "Not to mention the help you've given us here on Bryonia. We couldn't have completed the Rivalry without you."

"Our paths have crossed so often. At this point, it can only be fate." Laura added

"Here's a suggestion. How about a temporary alliance?" Levi suggested. " That way, you can at least go somewhere for the time being, until you can figure things out on your own. And don't forget, Lianne is involved in the Rivalries, and should she fall, the Stahlritter will need a new leader to carry on her ambition. Sure, the Undine Prince could take her place but... It's up to you to decide, but I figure you should know this."

"Well... That is true... Plus with the Young Lord..." Duvalie mumble to herself as she thinks. "Very well. I have decided that I shall help you out...for now." She stood up and her face went red. "But remember this, Class VII. And the rest of you. Aside from Mona, We are NOT friends. Our cooperation is one of convenience, and nothing more!"

"Nonetheless. Welcome aboard, Duvalie the Swift." Levi smiled. "Now we also have to prepare for the Rivalries too."

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Behind the Lore)

"Oh that reminds me. Duvalie. You also have Pokemon too, right? Noelster mention those some of Ouroboros members have Pokemon."

"Noelster? Is that how you address the Young Lord? Oh never mind. I do in fact. Sirfetch'd, and Escavalier. Now that I think about it. I should take the Opperunity to find myself a flying pokemon next time..."

"All right, so what's next?" Sara asked. "Want to go find Towa and the other formal students?"

"Yeah. We all felt their presence back at the Workshop." Rean nodded. "I definitely remember sensing Towa, Princess Alfin, and Elise."

"I'm honestly surprised a little." Levi replied. "But due to my powers as well as the ARCUS, we can sense them clearly. They have done their part to reach you Rean. But they weren't alone either. There were others but I don't know who is with them. Especially with their location."

"What exactly was that?" Kurt asked.

"Kind of an amalgamation of images from all over the Empire, projected through the spirit veins and Levi's powers, I think." Emma answered. "It seemed like it focused on people Rean had strong connections to who'd be willing to help him."

"There was a similar connection made when he brought his power under control, just for a second." Celine added.

"Although it was a fleeting vision, it's only natural you wouldn't have time to pick out everyone's precise locations." Hamsuke replied.

"But at least we know they're all safe for now!" Juna nodded.

"However, I would rather not leave Instructor Towa or Elise to fend for themselves…" Altina replied

"Agreed. I'm concerned about Princess Alfin as well." Kurt agreed

"We still need to find out where they are. As well as the Empress, except for Prince Cedric." Angelica nodded. "With St. Astraia's closed, I'm guessing Towa, Her Highness and Elise are being kept under surveillance since their connections toward us."

"Quite a cowardly move if you ask me." Levi complained

"We sure have a lot of friends and family whereabouts are presently unknown…" Musse stated. "I've asked the general to search for them, but she hasn't come up with anything so far…."

"Times are tough. We've got the Great Twilight and the Rivalries to deal with, plus the upcoming war." Rean replied.

"And we need to decide whether we want to assist the Weissland Army or find another way." Levi added.

"Not to mention, whether we want to draw out the Rivalries for as long as possible, or get them done as fast as we can. We might not have time to hesitate. I'm tired of feeling like a pawn in someone else's game. Be that as a Sacrifice for the Great Twilight or as a participant in the Rivalries. Instead of resigning myself to fate, or some larger flow of things, and just being pushed along… I want to start moving on my own, beginning with protecting things precious to me with my own hands and by my own decisions. Just like how all of you worked so hard to rescue me."

"Aww, well said Rean." Lucina smiled. "I agree with you as well."

"Agreed. I understand how you feel. It's funny now our worlds is a bit similar to our tales." Chrom chuckled.

"But honestly though, Rean. How do you come up with those heroic speeches so fast?" Levi asked, giving him the deadpan look.

"Who knows. Anyway, Elise and Towa are only the start. There are others all over the place who are experiencing trouble. Mint and the others in Heimdallr when they heard about the situation… Not to mention, friends, family, and everyone else who's helped us along the way. Let's start by taking back the bonds that Class Vll and everyone else has forged over the years and expand them even further. If we do, I think our bonds can spread throughout the Empire- maybe even the world!"

"I swear with those speeches of yours. Still, it is well said in the end."

"No more being used as a pawn, huh?" Ash smirked. "Sounds good to me."

"You've been carrying all this for a long time now, haven't you?" Alisa asked.

"I always knew you were the heart and soul of Class Vll." Sara chuckled.

"And now you're spreading your influence out further and further." Jusis replied.

"I mean, it's the least I can do, right? This world wouldn't be able to-"

"Abababa, stop right there." Levi interrupted Rean as he raised his hand.

"Levi?"

"How many times do we have to tell you that it isn't your fault to begin with? The only fault is the curse as well as Obsorne and the Gnomes. You were force into their little schemes."

"Even so. I fell hard. But now I have a chance to make amends as I said to Hakumen. I reject Operations Jormungandr and Mille Mirage and what they stand for. I want to spend what little time we have left protecting the ones we love. There has to be another way. One that only Class Vll and all of our friends can achieve. This'll be our final operation as a class. What do you say?"

Everyone look at each other and nodded.

"Bring back memories. You said something like this during the civil war." Levi smiled.

"And that time with Xehanort." Sora smiled.

"So that's our decision. It might sound like a fool's errand, but we're sticking with it." Rean smiled.

"Damn straight we are!" Natsu smirked.

"Honestly, we're all a bunch of misfits. But I love it." Crow chuckled.

"Oh. I was wondering if you were not including yourself. I prepare a rebuttle for that." Angelica smirked.

"Hey give me a break will you?" Crow sighed. "Still, we need to settle with that idiot George."

"Right." Angelica nodded before noticing Levi expression is not very happy with George.

"It matters little to me, since this is only a temporary arrangement." Duvalie answered. "But I don't mind lending a hand to you helpless young dreamers. I'm interested in seeing the full extent of your resolve."

"You already know our answer. We'll help you out in any way we can." Mona nodded.

"Thanks guys." Levi nodded. "While we are doing our objective. We also need to find out where Towa, Alfin and Elise are at the moment. They're somewhere in the Empire. Let's head to the Halberd. But are you sure you can still move, Rean?"

"I can. It took a lot of stamina but I'll have come. It should also be getting late too. Let's all rest up for tomorrow."

"Right. Everyone nodded." Everyone agreed.

---

With Crow, Duvalie, Mona, Shez, Arval, Shadow, Rouge, Omega and Kammy on board, the group has expanded! Now let the motion to Stop the Great Twilight begin!

Oh yeah. Here are the enemy data.

Bowser: King of the Koopas, Mario's Archnemesis, one of the Fighters of Smash Bros and Crow's Boss who fight alongside Crow for the Rivalry. Fight with brute strength and fire breathing capability and curl into his shell for many tactics in battle.

HP:374798

Tager: Kokonoe's right hand known as the Red Devil. Known for his immense strength and assist electrical capability, now involve in the Rivalry under Kokonoe's orders.

HP:374951

Shez: A Mercenary who hired by Bowser, now serve him as one of his Vassal. His Shadowshift allow him to teleport and transform to unleash powerful duel-welding swordplay. Involve himself with the Rivalry to assist Crow.

HP: 253969

Lambda: A Murakumo unit that serves Kokonoe. Summon countless blades and alter gravity with lethal movements, involve herself under Kokonoe's orders for the Rivalry.

HP: 252789

Morgan: Robin and Lissa's Daughter and Crow's Fiancee. Wields several powerful tomes with powerful magic and uses tactics to confuse and surprise enemies. Fight alongside her Fiance in the Rivalry.

HP:141090