After destroying the last Fell Dragon Crystal, the group returned to the Somniel as it began rising to the portal, where Sombron waited on the other side.
"So…you've come." Sombron said as the group stood in front of him.
"It's over. We will not let you take another step beyond this world." Alear said.
"I think you people are greatly underestimating me." Sombron said. "Invasion is merely a means to an end. What I seek is a reunion. A reunion with Zero Emblem."
"Zero Emblem?" Alear asked.
"I've not heard word of this before." Marth said.
"Of course not. That Emblem is not of your world. Nor am I." Sombron said, surprising some of the group.
"What do you mean?" Alear asked.
"Beyond this portal lie infinite worlds. One of them was my home. It had its own Emblem Rings, and a war arose to control them. My kind lost. The enemy used the rings' power to slaughter my relatives. All of them. I was very young… Our enemies granted me alone the mercy of exile." Sombron explained.
"So they sent you here." Ace said.
"A peaceful world, ruled by godlike dragons. I was meant to live a quiet life there. But I brought something with me, unknown to them. A single Emblem Ring." Sombron said.
"Zero Emblem." Alear said.
"In my world, known as the Emblem of Foundations. With my power, unable to speak. Legend said this Emblem fought without aid. So much ambition, and no allies. That story showed me the way forward in my complete isolation. I was trapped in this world without friends or family. Only that Emblem gave me comfort." Sombron said.
"And so, you would go to any worlds as it takes just to get it back. That is what you are saying, correct?" David asked.
"Exactly, and all because of villagers that found me a few years after I arrived. They mistook me for an abandoned child. They pitied me, my first connection in your world. Soon after, the Emblem deserted me, leaving only the ring behind. And why? For bonding with the people of this world. I despaired, and then… I reduced their village to ash. I swore to forgo all bonds in pursuit of my ambitions, as my Emblem had. I fought alone, confide in none, preparing to return to my world. To exact revenge. I needed pawns for my plan, and territory. I spent years amassing it all. Then, I attacked." Sombron said.
"While I do feel sorry for your situation… It doesn't excuse the things you have done, Sombron." David said. "You cut ties with the people that took you in…even your own children, just because of your obsession with the Emblem."
"As I said, pawns. Acting on my command and mine alone. Meant to be used and discarded. Deaths which mean nothing." Sombron said.
"That's why you killed them all… But what about us? You wanted us to die?" Veyle asked.
"You were no different to me." Sombron said. "Nothing but pawns in my quest for the ultimate reunion."
"Well that reunion won't be happening." Jexi said.
"Yeah. You threaten this world, kill our friend's parents, raze their nations, use your kids as pawns, and you expect to get what you want in the end? Screw. That." Mark declared, punching his fist into his palm.
"So be it." Sombron said before firing a blast of dark magic at the group as they went and dodged it. "I have striven for this for thousands of years. If you intend to stand in my way, you will die."
"You have always been my source of strength. Allow my faith, just this once, to be yours." Ivy said to Alear.
"No getting discouraged now! Heads held high! We believe in you, and we will win. Easy!" Timerra said.
"Divine One! This is for Father…and all the soldiers who have fallen along the way." Diamant said.
"We started this journey together, now let's end it together. May our world prosper, Divine One!" Alfred declared.
"As your sister and fellow dragon, I'll do whatever it takes to help you stop Papa!" Veyle promised.
"I have crossed between worlds to bring you victory, Divine One. You need fear nothing!" Nel declared.
"You and your friends rescued me from despair. I will return that favor here. Let us strike this monster down!" Rafal added.
"For Elyos..and for all of those worlds beyond this one!" Alear declared.
"We're with you until the very end, Alear. No matter the odds, we will make the impossible possible." Ace said.
"I have a habit of being reckless, so I don't know how much help I'd really be… But with the scale of this fight…I think I can let loose just this once." David said with a smirk as he drew his blade.
"I have always struggled internally between my human side and my bestial side… But right now, they are both in agreement on one thing. Sombron must be stopped at all costs. We can't afford a single mistake." Cheetah said.
"Compared to Vide, this won't be much of a problem with all of us here. Hope you're ready, Sombron, cause we're gonna bust a cap in your ass." Simon said.
"...I have nothing to say to you, Sombron. If this is the path you're taking… then so be it." Boss said.
"Sombron, for the sake of Elyos and the other worlds, we're ending your reign once and for all. For we…" Zi-O declared, preparing his Zikan Gilade Ken Mode. "...are our final hope!"
Sombron fired more dark energy blasts at them as they dodged.
"Okay, can we please stop monologuing and fight this guy before he actually kills us?" Theo asked.
"Sure, sure. Get ready, everyone." David said.
"Imbeciles. Your scrambling is both futile and pitiful." Sombron said.
As he attacked, he was surprised by how quickly the group was forming against him and striking him whenever he attacked.
"Don't forget, you aren't the first dragon we've battled with." Theo pointed out.
"We've faced a lot more than dragons on this treasure hunt of ours, so we're definitely not going to let you be the end of us." Ethox said.
"Agreed, we won't let it face the same path as the other world did." Simon added as he slashed Sombron with Zero's Blade.
"Let's do this." David said as he Engaged with Lucina, drawing Parallel Falchion. At the same time, Cheetah Engages with Lyn, drawing Mani Katti and summoning copies. David takes Parallel Falchion and twirls it. "I challenge my fate!" he said as the group within his vicinity joins in on a chain attack.
"How…foolish." Sombron said as he was pushed back before laughing. "This is not over. Out of my way, you worms!" he yelled before he was engulfed in purple flames as he stood tall in his true dragon form and a barrier formed around him as six figures each appeared next to him on both sides.
"Damn… There's a barrier. We gotta bring it down somehow. Wait a second… Those figures… I'm feeling something." David said.
Azura gasped a bit as she clenched her pendant. "Father…"
"I'm sensing the Shadow Dragon too." Tiki said.
"No way…did this guy seriously call up all of the major enemies of Fire Emblems past?!" Sunset said.
"You thought I sat idly, waiting for you to arrive? I could not bring back my Emblem, but I summoned others of equal power. Dark Emblems, who once plunged their worlds into despair." Sombron said.
"I see… So that's how he wants to play this, huh?" David asked.
"How are we supposed to…hmm…I got a theory. Everyone with a ring. Find your baddy and take them on." Sunset said.
"Gotcha. You heard her, guys. Anyone with an Emblem Ring, find your corresponding Dark Emblem, and take them down!" David said.
"The Rebellion will hold off Sombron's attacks for as long as we can!" Zi-O said as his team focused on Sombron.
"As does my faction." Boss added with his team following Team XDR's lead. "15 minutes. That's all the time we'll give you. Make them count."
"Let's do this, Leif!" Ajna said as she approached the Dark Bishop who depicted a pale man in green robes with tome in hand.
"You radiate evil...but are you truly the dark bishop who I fought once before? Is your intent to spread fear and despair in this world too? I will never allow that to happen!" Leif said.
"Time to tag team this one!" Ajna said as she engaged with Leif and executed Quadruple Hit, striking the Dark Bishop with a sword, lance, and axe in order before leaping into the air and notching an arrow on her bow. "I'll destroy you!" she finished, firing it, dealing massive damage and finishing off the Dark Emblem.
"This fault is my own…" the Dark Bishop said before vanishing.
The barrier around Sombron then cracked a bit.
"I was right. The 12 final bosses are weak against the heroes who originally slayed them." Sunset said.
"Yes. Take them all down and the barrier will fall." Azura said before noticing the Mad Dragon approaching, who depicted a male in white robes with only his long blue hair being shown.
"I didn't want to see you... But if it's true that you are at the end of every path I take... Then I will stop you every time. I won't give up!" Corrin spoke.
"Aw…do you all need a little help?" a voice asked as they saw Camilla and Kido approach. "It's a big sister's job to watch out for her siblings. This one needs to be punished."
"The Emblem Rings aren't alone in this, those of the Bracelets will lend their strength too." Kido said.
"Even though you aren't truly my father, I will see to it you are put to rest once more." Azura said as she and Kido engaged. "My path is certain." she said, activating Torrential Roar as her left hand transformed into a Dragon's maw and fired a blast of water.
"Time to play." Kido said as he rode on Camilla's wyvern and caught her axe on fire before zooming towards the Mad Dragon and unleashing Dark Inferno.
"Why am I the one left to suffer? Why am I the one left to die?" The Mad Dragon asked before fading away.
David and Cheetah were slicing their way through Corrupted before coming across two Dark Emblems, one resembled a hooded figure in black robes bearing the mark of the Grimleal, the other depicted a man with green hair in black mage robes, Despair and the Dark Druid.
"You've come chasing after me again. You, who are the wings of despair and the breath of ruin... If that's so, then I challenge that fate! Die now, that our future can live!" Lucina said.
"Fate is full of surprises. Who would have thought we'd meet again? Yet this, I'm afraid, is our final parting. Soon you'll only be a stain on my sword!" Lyn said.
"Know that the two of you aren't standing alone!" a voice said as Sectonia appeared with Chrom's Bracelet alongside Esmeralda with Hector's.
"Where my daughter goes, me and Robin will be there." Chrom said.
"And you know I'm always down for a fight, Lyn." Hector said.
"Father, thank you for aiding me in this battle." Lucina said.
"As to you, Hector. We will win this together!" Lyn said.
"Ready, ladies?" David asked as all four Engaged with their respective Emblems. "I challenge my fate!"
"Too late for regrets!" Esmerelda said, swinging Wolf Beil.
"Anything can change!" Sectonia said, one of her rapiers and Falchion charged for a double Giga Levin Sword Strike.
"Watch this!" Cheetah said as she drew energy arrows with her bow.
Cheetah and Esmerelda struck down Dark Druid, while at the same time, David and Sectonia did away with Despair together.
"You are all powerless, frail, insignificant. You are nothing..." Despair snarled.
"Then why? Why must we lose? We need more power..." Dark Druid said as the two faded.
Meanwhile, Byleth and the Three House Leaders were paired up with Adora and Tenko as they faced down The Liberation King, who was a grey haired man wielding the dark Sword of the Creator, alongside the princess alliance. Adora had the Bracelet of Three Houses, accompanied by Tenko, who has Byleth's ring.
"The King of Liberation, revived? I doubt you'll go peacefully. Well, neither will I. The flow of time may have brought us both here, but now I will end your journey." Byleth said.
"We got your back, Teach." Claude said.
"If he truly is the real enemy to all of Fodlan, then he must be stopped here and now." Dimitri added.
"Let's send him packing!" Frosta said.
The Liberation King charged, missing a swing on Adora as she struck back with the Sword of Protection as She-Ra. Frosta then followed up with a blast of ice to his face, followed by Scorpia shocking him out of his boots with red lightning. Catra then ducked his next strike before tearing into the Dark Emblem with her claws, as Mermista came surfing in on a wave and crashed into him, adding in a knee right to his face as Perfuma wrapped him up in vines to restrain him.
"Ready, Tenko?!" Adora asked, engaging with Dimitri.
"Yeah, let's do it!" Tenko said as she engaged with Byleth.
"We're a bit low on energy, though. We just used our best attacks."
"Don't worry, I've got just the thing!" Tenko said as she forms a circle around her with her foot. "Let the lesson begin!" she spins around and spreads her arms out, rejuvenating her cohorts.
"Alright, let's do this!" Adora said.
"Professor!" Dimitri called out.
Byleth gathered together with the Three House Leaders. He then sent them off as they each attacked with Aymr, Areadbhar, and Failnaught.
"You are all pathetic weaklings. you lack the courage to face me without your swarm…" The Liberation King said before fading away.
"You're wrong. Fighting together as one against an enemy? That makes us strong." Adora said.
At that same time, Ike, Micaiah and Soren paired with Subaru, Emilia and Throne as they faced against two different enemies. The Mad King who depicted an armored man riding a wyvern, and Judgement, who depicted a woman with long orange hair that went down to behind her calves in black robes with feather ornaments in her hair and around the openings of her sleeves.
"I know exactly who you are. I can feel it. You're the Mad King. I won't hold back against you! I'll fight with all my strength!" Ike said.
"You?! Has Sombron summoned you again to pass judgment on the world? I'm not going to let that happen! Yune...please give me strength!" Micaiah said.
"And as a strategist, I will make sure you won't bring an end to anyone here." Soren said.
"Can't believe we're doing this. Ready, Mili?" Subaru asked.
"Of course." Emilia said.
"I'll provide assistance for the both of you." Throne said.
All three of them charged the two Dark Emblems as Subaru cut into the Mad king with Ike's Ragnell and Emilia attacked with enhanced magic against Judgment with Throne striking both at once until they had fallen.
"More… More, I say! At this time of ascension, it's not enough…not enough…" the Mad King ranted.
"I am absolute…and yet, you defeated me. Impossible…" Judgement denied as both of them soon faded away.
"Looks like over half of the Dark Emblems have been taken care of." the real Roy said before noticing a hooded woman in purple robes with short white hair. "Idunn…Why are you here—and in that form? We have no quarrel. So...I'll do my part to stop this. And I'll free your soul from endless fighting once again." he said as he drew the Binding Blade.
"Roy, wait! Your Emblem self has to be the one to take out that Dark Emblem!" Ethox said, holding up said Emblem.
"I'll be fine. I think I should be able to harm it." Roy said as he glowed a rainbow aura as he slowly drew his sword in a circle. "Toryaaa!" he called, slamming it down onto the Demon Dragon.
"I…I am alone… Alone in the dark…" the Demon Dragon said before fading away.
"Idunn, you know that's not true. There are people back home who care about you, like Fae." Roy said.
"Huh…I stand corrected." Ethox said.
In another part, Eirika, Celica and Sigurd while worn by Rosado, Himiko, and Blake as they faced three different enemies. The Demon King, who depicted a demonic anthropomorphic black dragon, the War Father, who resembled a humanoid male with pointed ears, and long green hair in a ponytail with armor, and the Dark God who depicted a demonic black serpent dragon.
"I sense a miasma of evil coming from you... Could you be the Demon King? If you are, I will defeat you before you beguile anyone or cause a tragedy." Eirika said.
"We meet again, Duma...though I'm not sure you are him. Please, do no more harm. Allow your great and weary soul the rest it deserves…" Celica said.
"The divine sword Tyrfing is awakened. That marks you as— No. Impossible. As a knight of Grannvale, and a descendent of one of the 12 crusaders, I shall be your end!" Sigurd said.
"Are you girls ready?" Rosado asked.
"Yes." they both said as all three sprang into action as they quickly dispatched the three enemies before them.
"You miserable fools…" the Demon King said.
"Only power holds meaning. Only strength holds sway…" the War Father said.
"Lowly human scum…" the Dark God said as all three disappeared.
With that, only one enemy remained as Marth and Tiki along with Alear and Dan faced a certain foe Marth knew all too well. The Shadow Dragon, who depicted a bald Manakete in purple robes.
"I sense you, shadow, and I believe I know who you are! I've defeated you before, and I will again, for I hold the Exalted Falchion!" Marth said.
"And I will make sure you will never rise to hurt the world again." Tiki said.
"Ready Dan?" Alear asked.
"Of course." Dan said.
Both raised their blades on high as they clashed with the Shadow Dragon blade on claw repeatedly before slaying the fierce beast.
"How? How was I defeated so easily?" the Shadow Dragon asked before fading away.
"We started this journey together when I was taken…" Alear said.
"And we're gonna make sure she has a home to return to!" Dan said.
Sombron continued to fight against Xross Drive Rebellion and the Ohma Crusaders before his barrier finally shattered.
"Accursed Emblems…" Sombron growled.
"They've done it! The barrier is broken!" Cure Starlight noticed.
"Mm. They've done their part, and so did we." Boss nodded, calling his faction to step back. "The rest is up to you and the Alliance. You know what must be done."
"Yes." Zi-O nodded, using his Decade Ridewatch and quickly changed into his Decade Armor with the Ride Heiseiber in hand. "It's Finish Time."
"Another accessory? I'll see you die before you can even…" Sombron said, going at him before being uppercutted by Jexi and Hope.
"These guys risked their hides to buy us time. No way we're letting you kill them when we're this close to the finish line." Jexi said.
"We can understand you wanting to find your Emblem again… but we won't let you leave this world so you can tear apart our homes looking for it!" Hope said.
"I WILL reclaim what is mine!" Sombron declared, aiming to breathe a mass of dark fire.
"No you don't!" Ace called, engaged with Veronica as he blasted Sombron with powerful magic from her tome Élivágar. "We will not let you destroy everything we hold dear." he said before aiming Breidablik at the Fell Dragon.
"What all of you want means nothing to me." Sombron said.
"Right back at you, you overgrown lizard!" Mark shouted as he raced towards the Fell Dragon, shifting into his Six-Armed Form and leaping towards Sombron's face.
Mash B!
Mark landed punch after punch against the Fell, before winding up one last punch.
Press Y at the right time!
Mark landed a mighty blow on the Fell Dragon's head, sending him reeling back.
"C'mon, Dynamic Duo, give 'em the goods!"
"Right. Let's go, Ishihara." Cheetah said.
"After you!" David said as the two sprang at Sombron. Cheetah attacks with Mani Katti, then David struck with Parallel Falchion, forming an X-slash mark. Then the two leaped up behind Sombron's back and performed another X-slash.
"Zeo, get your shot in!" Eddy said. "This scaly slimball's going down fast!"
"Already on it!" Zi-O complied, slamming the Decade Ridewatch onto the Ride Heiseiber and rotated the clock hand several times.
=HEY! KAMEN RIDERS!=
=HEI! SEI! HEI! SEI! HEI! SEI! HEI! SEI! H-H-H-HEI! SEI!=
As the finisher jingle continued, Zi-O moved his Ride Heiseiber in a circular movement before raising it upwards. "Sorry, Fell Dragon. But despite your reasonable intentions… you need to go down." He spoke before pushing the sword's button.
=D-D-D-DECADE! HEISEI RIDERS! ULTIMATE TIME BREAK!=
The blade glowed in rainbow colors as it turned into a large blade of light that reached the sky. "SEIYAAAA!" Zi-O roared, delivering a powerful downward slash right onto the Fell Dragon, followed by one more circle slash for good measure before the glow vanished.
"This…it cannot…end like this…!" Sombron seethed. "Not…until I…find them again…!"
"Alear, Veyle! End it!" Geiz shouted.
Both Dragons came at their father with blade and knife in hand before they landed the final slashes as the Fell Dragon reverted to his human form.
"Then…I will be denied…my reunion." Sombron said.
"Sombron…" Hibiki whispered sadly.
"We won… but why do I feel so empty about this?" Gunvolt questioned.
"GV… Sombron…" Joule whispered.
"..." Houki looked down in guilt despite the victory. "Does it really have to end like this…?"
Copen also felt the same way as he lowered his Divider pistol. "You may be our enemy… and yet…"
"Ix… Sombron…" Lola whispered.
"Damn it…" Kiana muttered, lowering her pistol. "This is not how I want this story to end."
"There has to be a way for Sombron to have his happy ending, right?" Aether questioned.
"Mm. There's always another way." Lumine nodded as she and Aether lowered their swords.
"Even Paimon feels bad about this." Paimon added.
"Is being a destroyer his only destiny?" Grey questioned, lowering his hand cannons.
"Even I don't know the answer to that." Aile answered, lowering her ZX-Saber.
"You know, it felt great for me to finally get rid of the Pirate Master back in Sequin Land." Risky Boots said, lowering her pistol. "But… this is one victory I'm not even proud of. Don't you agree, Shantae?"
"Yeah, even this doesn't feel right." Shantae said as she pressed her index fingers together with an unsure expression.
"Tch." Prometheus muttered, resting his scythe over his shoulder. "For once, this is one soul I'm not gonna enjoy reaping. It'll leave a bad taste in my mouth."
"However, the final judgment must come for Sombron." Pandora stated.
"I hate to say it, but you're right." Darkmoon nodded. "What say you, Cure Starlight?"
"I think the final judgment will be from Alear and Veyle." Cure Starlight answered.
"Yeah, it's all up to them." Geiz nodded.
"Divine Dragon Alear, Fell Dragon Veyle, the decision is yours." Boss insisted.
"And please, make it the correct one." Zi-O added, reverting back to Base Form.
Alear and Veyle nodded to the group before approaching the exhausted Sombron.
"We've won, Sombron." Alear said.
"Now I will never return home. Perhaps that is just as well. I am tired… Tired of searching in every shadow." Sombron said.
"For…the Emblem of Foundations?" Veyle asked.
"I would look in sunless woods…gloomy caves…the shade of a dead tree. In such places, I felt my Emblem again. Now, that is all over." Sombron said.
"You chose to be alone, yet continued to look for this Emblem. Why?" Alear asked.
"Perhaps I wanted someone to appreciate how far I had come, all on my own. Someone to see me, who I am, after millenia of being cast away." Sombron said.
"I could have been that person. Or Veyle, or our siblings. Why didn't you let us? Why choose to start these wars?" Alear asked.
"Ack… I need no connections. Not in your world." Sombron answered.
"Even at the end, you don't want to be a father to us. Very well. You'll be only the Fell Dragon, an evil that we slayed. That's how we'll remember you." Alear said.
"Do as you please. I have been alone for all this time. Why should my death be different? I do not need mercy or pity. I will fade in this place, apart from the one I yearn to see." Sombron said.
"Do you remember the invocation?" Alear asked.
"What?" Sombron asked.
"The invocation for the Emblem of Foundations." Alear said.
"I have tried. Again and again I said the words. It was no use." Sombron said.
"Still…it couldn't hurt to try. One last time." Alear said.
"All right… Burn… Burn us, Emblem of Foundations." Sombron said as it was silent for a moment as he saw something. "Oh! This light! Oh…at last… At last, we meet again…" he smiled sincerely.
"Papa? I…I don't see anyone…" Veyle said.
"I don't either. It must be someone only he can see. An old friend. The one person he truly let in." Alear explained.
"You and I… Let us be on our way…once more. Engage…" Sombron said as there was a bright light, and when it died down, small sparkles were seen ascending from where he stood.
"Your journey is finally over, Sombron." Zi-O whispered as he looked at the sparkles flying upwards. "Rest peacefully in the afterlife.
Sombron found himself in an empty, white void, nothing around as far as he could see.
"Where…is this the afterlife?" Sombron wondered aloud, his voice echoing.
"Not quite yet." a voice familiar to him spoke, the Fell Dragon turning his head to see a familiar visage.
"Ah…you came at last…" Sombron said with a genuine smile.
"Yes…I apologize it took so long. But the barriers between Elyos and the rest of reality were too strong." The Zero Emblem said. "Even this form of communication is difficult, given the distance."
"This form? Are you…not here?" Sombron asked.
"I'm afraid not." the Zero Emblem said. "I wish I could be here in person, but…I have other things keeping me on the other side. I am here to see you off, and to apologize."
"Apologize?" Sombron asked. "Was leaving me not your test? To see if I was strong enough?"
The Zero Emblem let out a sigh at that. "After all this time…no. It was never about strength. The reason I went with you, why I let you take me…I desired to make sure you weren't alone. Then, once I thought you had found a true place to call home…I decided you deserved better companions than I."
"Better than you?" Sombron asked, confused. "How could anyone be better than you?"
"Sombron, our bond was not strong from the beginning. It grew over many days, many shared experiences." The Zero Emblem said. "If that was how our bond was forged…could you not have done the same with others?"
Sombron thought over this, before he looked down at the featureless ground. "Perhaps you're right. Perhaps…this was truly all for nothing…"
"Perhaps…but even so, some good did come out of this." the Zero Emblem said, Sombron looking up in confusion. "Alear, Veyle…Nel, Rafal…they will forge a better future for Elyos. The nations are united, and are ready to explore the worlds beyond. And this all came out because of your actions, despite the end goal." the emblem said, smiling at his former bearer. "Be proud. You've propelled Elyos towards a better future."
Sombron was shocked by these words as he looked down at his hands, seeing a drop of water hit one of them. It took him a moment to realize what it was.
"Why…Why am I crying?" Sombron asked, as he felt himself begin to fade.
"...For the same reason I did, in the end." the Zero Emblem said. "Goodbye…my child."
The Zero Emblem watched as Sombron faded away completely, before he turned away with a sigh of regret. "That's another one I've failed…when will I learn?"
And so, Maera, the Zero Emblem, went back to his duties.
"Papa…" Veyle said.
"He's gone. And the ring for the Emblem of Foundations… That's gone with him. Our fight is over. Let's go home. It's time to shut this portal once and for all." Alear said.
The group soon returned to Elyos as the portal began closing.
"The portal is closing. Once it's shut, the war ends, and balance returns to the world." Alear said.
"What about the Emblems?" Boss asked. "Now that the cycle is broken and Sombron is no more, they have to return to their respective worlds."
"We can let them go. Their job is done. The Bracelets got us to Elyos after we gathered them… and the Rings helped us save it. Just as the legends foretold." Glimmer said.
"But this won't really be the end, right? We'll still see them again?" Sectonia asked.
"Only if you go to their respective worlds, that is." Cure Starlight pointed out.
Veronica then appeared before the group.
"Oh, Veronica. Something you wanna say?" Connor asked.
"Actually, I'd prefer to stay with you all just a while longer, if you don't mind." Veronica said.
"Are you sure, your Highness?" Ace asked.
"While I may be called the Lonely Heir, being with you all, especially you, Ace, has helped fill this heart after losing my brother and sister to the dragon that created my kingdom." Veronica said.
"Oh…" Maria responded. "I'm… sorry to hear about your siblings, Veronica."
"That's why I want to find a way not to be alone anymore… perhaps traveling with you all?" Veronica asked.
"Actually, you don't need to go with us to find friends, Veronica." Hope said.
"Yeah, I mean… You'll always have the other Bracelets for that, right?" David asked.
"And plus, you'll have Alear, and everyone in Elyos to converse with." Hope said.
"It's true. We're never truly alone so long as there is at least one person who cares for you." Jexi said.
"I suppose that is true." Veronica said.
"So, I guess this is good-bye, Lucina. It was a blast traveling with you." David said.
"Yes, it was. I was glad to enjoy every moment of it. No matter what happens, never forget who you are, and where you came from." Lucina said.
"...Thanks. I'll remember that." David said with a smile.
"Lyn, this is farewell, it looks like." Cheetah said.
"Yes. But as long as you hold memories of our time together in your heart, it's never good-bye. I am certain we will meet again." Lyn said.
"I will be looking forward to that day." Cheetah said.
"So…what will you do now, Alear?" Jexi asked.
"My mother is alive and…I think I want to be able to spend time with her and my sibling." Alear said as she held Veyle close.
"That is good. But before we leave, Veyle. May I see Alear's dragonstone real quick?" Ace asked.
Veyle did so as Ace closed his eyes and concentrated as a glow emanated from it before it died down, revealing two matching pendants as he held them out to the two. Alear's was red and blue with the Divine Dragon symbol, and Veyle's was purple with the Fell symbol.
"Pendants?" Alear asked.
"It's Ace's signature item to know we're friends." Hope said.
"I always make them for those we made bonds with, and these two for you as a sign to cherish the bond you both now share as sisters." Ace said.
Alear and Veyle happily took them as they smiled proudly.
"As for myself, I think I'll travel along with these people." Rafal said motioning to Reformed Society. "I believe that we would get along and assist each other in our struggles."
"Yes. Our world is gone, so we would like to see what your reality likes to offer." Nel said.
"Same goes for the rest of us. The Four Winds are at your service." Zelestia said.
"Four Winds? Does that include me as well?" Mauvier asked.
"Of course it does, Mauvier. We may not be able to replace your companions in the Four Hounds, but the camaraderie is strong with us. Trust me." Gregory said.
"But… I cannot bismerch my loyalty to Lady Veyle…" Mauvier said.
"Mauvier, consider this my final order. You are to accompany them on their travels." Veyle said.
"Lady Veyle…" Mauvier said.
"I am doing this because you deserve to be happy as well. It wouldn't feel right if you stayed behind because of me." Veyle said.
"Very well… I shall take you up on your offer." Mauvier said to the Four Winds. "I may not be able to replace your Mauvier in turn, but I will do all I can to live up to his legacy."
"That is all we can ask for, Mauvier. What about you, Marni?" Madeline asked.
"As if you need to ask. If Mauvier is going with you guys, then so am I!" Marni said.
"Heh… I figured you would say that." Madeline said.
"I have no objections with this." Nesma said.
"Neither do I." Cheetah said.
"A moment if you will. I would like for you to take Kagetsu with you as well." Ivy said.
"You are certain, Princess Ivy? Have I… Have I done something to bismerch your loyalty?" Kagetsu asked.
"No, no. Quite the opposite, actually." Ivy said. "You wished to see the world outside your home, correct? I believe traveling with them would be the best way to do that."
"You are lucky to have even *received* such an offer. I am quite *jealous*, to be honest." Zelkov said.
"It's his way of saying he is happy for you." Ivy said.
"I see. Very well. I hope you all don't mind." Kagetsu said to the Brave Adventurers.
"Of course we don't. The more the merrier, we always say." Ross said.
"We would like to hear all about your travels once we meet again." Ivy said with a smile.
"Same goes for you, Merrin." Timerra said. "I think you'll have a lot of fun with these guys."
"As you say, Princess Timerra. I'll be sure to tell you all about my travels when I return." Merrin said.
It was only just 3 or 4 days later that the groups were prepared to move out once again.
"So is this it for you guys?" Jexi asked Ginhana Sky.
"Sorry but you guys are headed back to that Pokémon World with trainers right? Would be bad if we got caught in the mix." GS Pikachu said.
"So we'll be heading off on our own adventures for now." Riolu said.
"This little treasure hunt has been fun. Glad you guys came along." Hope said.
"Likewise." both leaders said as they boarded Paradise and took off.
"So…is the treasure hunt over?" Connor asked.
"Not yet. I mean, don't tell me you guys aren't curious about what that teacher showed us about Terapagos." Jexi said.
"I admit, I do find it curious." Simon said.
"Me too." Mark nodded, though it looked like his mind was elsewhere.
"So…I say we keep it going for one more ride, if that's alright with you guys." Jexi said.
"I'm alright with it. Ms Briar really hyped up Terapagos like it was a big deal. Plus…" Hope said, noting Mark's mind wander. "There is a certain someone we need to check up on."
"Yeah, Kieran." Mark said. "Hope he's doing all right."
"I highly doubt that after seeing his face when he left. We'd better help him in case something goes wrong." Kiana said.
"Yeah." Mark nodded. "What about you, Boss?"
"...You can count my faction out of this. Our work here is done." Boss said.
"I kinda figured you'd say that." Zeo said. "You were forced into the Color-Verse thanks to the Universal Villains, so it's better for you guys to return to the Xross-Verse."
"But what about the adventure in the Pokémon world?" Kiana questioned. "There's something we need to check on first."
"Not to worry, Kiana Kaslana." Woz answered, appearing beside Kiana which surprised her.
"Really?! Why do you keep doing that?!" Kiana retorted.
"Forgive me, it's my own unique trait." Woz replied before looking at Boss and his faction. "I will use the Zi-O Liner to bring you and your faction back to the Xross-Verse safely. The Rebellion will take the Galaxy King to go to the Pokémon world for a brief moment."
"Sounds good to me." Hope said. "It was nice meeting you and your allies, Boss."
"I wouldn't call it like that, Hope the Victor." Boss answered. "Like I said, we are only a neutral faction, hunting for the same goal as the Rebellion. But… I did learn plenty during my time in the Color-Verse, I must admit."
"Cool!" ZS said. "So…don't suppose we could get your real name now that you're leaving?" he asked, before Emo whacked him over the head with a tome. "Ow!"
"Ignore that last question." the warlock deadpanned.
"...Zetta."
"Come again?" Zeo asked.
"My name." Boss revealed. "I think you deserved to know the leader of the Ohma Crusaders and father of Cure Darkmoon."
"So your name is Zetta, huh?" Connor asked. "We'll remember it."
"Mm." Zetta nodded before looking at his faction. "Feel free to say anything to them before we leave."
"Well… this is where we walk our separate ways, half-genie runt." Risky Boots said. "Do you remember the last talk we had after the Pirate Master's defeat?"
"Yeah. You said for me to watch my back and you in return. You also said I'm just like my mom." Shantae said.
"Yeah." Risky nodded. "...Only shorter. And more annoying."
"Risky! Smooth sailing!" Shantae said.
"Heh. Later." Risky smirked before heading for the Zi-O Liner.
"Well… looks like fun's over." Prometheus said. "But I did get plenty of enjoyment out of this. Oh, and one more thing." He pointed his scythe at the Maverick Hunters and Guardians of Neo Arcadia. "Do me a favor and don't die, because I wanna be the reaper reploid that kicks your asses. Sis and I might not be nice in our next meeting."
"We haven't met in our world yet… but if I do make it to Neo Arcadia one day, and see you and Pandora in my world, I won't hold back." Zero said.
"...Good." Prometheus grinned, resting his scythe over his shoulder and went after Risky. "See ya."
"Farewell for now, legendary hunters." Pandora bowed before going after her brother.
"Akira, be sure that you and your team return to the Xross-Verse when you're done. Your journey is far from over." Darkmoon said.
"Don't worry, I won't forget." Akira nodded.
"Until next time." Darkmoon replied before heading for the train.
"By the way, Jexi the Hunter, Prometheus and Pandora overheard a conversation that you wish to test your luck against me." Zetta recalled. "You really have a death wish, don't you, boy?"
"Nah. Pretty sure I'd win." Jexi said with a smile.
"Hmph. I'll be the judge of that." Zetta smirked before going after his daughter. "Until we cross paths again, Hero Alliance."
"I should get going now. I'll be sure to bring back the Zi-O Liner once I'm done." Woz said.
"No problem, Woz." Gaius replied with a thumbs up. "See you in a bit."
"Mm." Woz nodded before facing the Hero Alliance. "And so another saga has reached its climax. Makes you wonder where your next road would lead, wouldn't you agree?"
"Home, mostly." Mark smiled. "But going out on adventures is always fun."
"Well said, Mark Anarchy." Woz smiled before heading for the train. "Until our next meeting, Hero Alliance."
Afterwards, the Zi-O Liner took off at high-speeds as a warp portal appeared, prompting the train to speed through before it closed.
"Well…" Zeo faced the Hero Alliance with a smile. "Looks like the Rebellion is gonna be stuck with you for one more adventure. So let's go to the Pokémon world, shall we?"
"Yeah. We're off to the Unova Region." Leia said. "Man…it's been so long since we were last there."
"Well technically, Blueberry Academy is in the ocean near it but it's close enough." Twilight said.
"I'm sure a lot of us are looking forward to what we'll end up seeing there." David said.
"Hmm…" Hope said. "Say, you guys mind if I make a call back to my place so someone can meet us there?"
"I know who you're talking about, and I say go ahead." Mark nodded. "Would be nice to have the Star-Busters back together."
"Great! I'll even make sure Koraidon comes along too, and a plus one, if anyone's interested in going." Hope said.
"Looking forward to meeting those friends of yours, Hope-san!" Hibiki smiled.
It wasn't long before the group took off aboard the Galaxy King as Alear and Veyle looked up.
"Dimensional Heroes! I…will never forget what you did for me! So…thank you! All of you!" Alear cried out as she shed a tear. "So…Veyle, let me help you catch up with what happened. It all started when…"
To be continued…