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?

45. Cedric

(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Reverie Corridor)

"Well, would you look at that." Claude mused as they look around the Garden and see the small garden suddenly change. "This place certainly changed."

Kamek rub his chin. "Perhaps because the defeat of the first guardian causes the garden to change."

"I sense ebbs and flows of pure mana. This must have been a place for recovery in the past." Emma mused

Bowser took out a notebook and write something down.

Things to add into the army and other stuff.

Rebuild Alvarton into a town.

Build a new fleet ship that has a checkmark.

Personal Aions that also have a checkmark.

Build a place of recovery to quickly recover like the witches' clan's Labyrinth.

"What's with the notebook?" Celine asked

"None of your beeswax, cat." Bowser responded as he put it away.

"Hey look. One of the gates is open." Sora pointed at the middle door that was close before.

"Right. As Byleth might have guess, a new path is open for us once we reach the condition." Goofy said. "So if we can defeat the next guardian, we can reach the next Rivalry."

"Great!" Donald nodded

"This looks like the central sector of the Empyreal Fortress. I think we can safely assume this is the best spot to set up camp." Sara suggest.

"Yeah, that make sense!" Juna said

"Should we summoned the Divine Knights and the Paladin Soldats then?" Kurt asked

Rean nodded. "Yeah, that's a good idea."

"Sweet. Let's teleport those Soldats." Crow replied.

"Then let us go." Lianne said as the Awakeners took off to a large space to summon their Divine Knights and Paladin soldots.

And thus everyone begin to chat.

"I'm so glad that we got through to Claire like that. It takes some of the worries off my mind." Weiss said.

"But ugh, Prince Cedric's up next. That guy's gonna be a royal headache." Juna grumbled

Musse nodded. "Yes, we can't expect the fourth Rivalry to be easy."

"I don't think some of us have ever met him two years ago. Except for his sister at the time." Ruby replied.

"I met him during the civil war. I was the one who brought him to late Duke Cayenne before the Vermillion Knight." Altina sighed. "Had I not done that, then perhaps things would have not turned out the way they did."

"Don't blame yourself, Altina. My Uncle Croire bears the sole responsibility." Musse shook her head. "No, that's not entirely true. I should have done something when I realized he was becoming unhinged."

"Musse, you couldn't have known."

"Hey! The past's the past! Nobody could've seen what eas coming!" Juna told them. "There's no point obsessing over choices you didn't make." She turn to Altina. "Allie, you were following your orders!" then to Musse. "And Musse, your power-hungry uncle was keeping you from taking what's yours! Kurt and Instructor Rean will handle Prince Cedric. We don't have to worry about him! We just have to support them!"

"Yeah! Juna's right!" Ruby agreed.

"You're becoming quite the leader. Almost better then Ruby here." Weiss giggled.

"Yeah! Wait... hey!" Ruby pouted before scratching her hair and give playful wink as she stick out her tongue. "... Yeah, I'm gonna agree."

"You know that reminds me. Prince Cedric's Eevee did manage to knock my uncle Croice, but apparently, Alberich was hiding from the shadows to make sure the prince was into the Vermillion Knight." Musse recalled.

"I think I remember he saying before he suddenly chance into a different person is that he had nightmares from what happened. But thanks to a certain feather, he was able to sleep peacefully." Altina replied. "And visit from the Star Spirits."

"Oh, those Star Spirits we met back at the end of Grima." Musse giggled.

---

"Hey there Millium, what's up?" Claude asked

"Oh hey, Claude. I was just thinkin' on my mind. I'm glad we didn't have to kill Claire or Lechter." Millium sighed with relief.

"I'm sure everyone feels that way. They're like your older siblings, aren't they?"

"Yeah, that's why I kinda wish I could've done more for them y'know? Both of them had some pretty bad stuff happen to them. It's why they made the choices they did."

"I getcha. I mean, I lost my brother, Shahid to the sort of schemes that made him do terrible things." Claude sit down next to Millium.

"Oh yeah, I remember that. That was before the Organization turn him into the Heartless in the end, huh?" Millium asked.

"Yeah. He was so obsessed with the throne that he will do whatever it takes. I just wish we can settle things, talk this out... but... I'm just being naive."

"Hey, don't feel like that. I get what you're saying. It's like with Lector and Clare. I'm not criticizing them or anything, but I wish we talked more... that we understood each other better as you hope for with that Shahid guy. It might feel... how do I put it...hypocritical?"

"Heh. Maybe. But we should look at the positive of things. Sure I may not be able to have some good moments with my brother, but you should be relief that you can help them redeem themselves."

"You're right. Once this is over, I'll help them sort things out." Millium nodded.

---

"You're awfully quiet, Kurt." Gray said as he, Happy and Natsu approached.

"I'm guessing you're thinking 'bout Prince Cedric?" Happy asked

"To be honest... yes. I do not know how I feel about facing him on the battlefield." Kurt sighed. "I was remembering him as he was when we first met. He struck me as honest and very mild-mannered. When he praised my swordsmanship, his eyes... gleamed with appreciation I didn't deserve. But after what happen to the Emperor, his behavior has changed drastically, but I believe he is still the same person. It all strikes me as very strange. I don't think he's lost his mind, or that the person he was has been supplanted by this new persona of his. But maybe that's just wishful thinking."

"I think you might be onto something there, Kurt. Sure I haven't met Olivert's little bro, but I did heard he was a good respectful prince who fought and train hard with his swordsmanship. Even gifted with magic when under that witch's teaches." Natsu replied.

"Yeah. Cedric was just as kind as he was before the dramatic change. But I think the Rivalries have something to do with it, you feel me?" Gray asked

"Yeah. Rean felt the tension between them, almost as they were force to draw to each other for battle. But it can't be help. But before we go into battle, why don't you take this chance to talk to him and find out why the sudden change?" Happy suggest. "Among everyone who is closest to him, it would be you, Kurt."

"I'll try." Kurt said as he gave a determination look. "I'll see for myself what's left of the prince I once know."

"Then good luck with that." Natsu pat back his shoulder a little roughly.

"Natsu, try to be more gentle." Happy sweatdrop.

"A-Anyway. What about the rest of you? I believe the Ice Dragon is we're facing next." Kurt said.

"Oh right, that guy." Natsu fold his arms. "I guess I did make him mad back at Pi'illo island, but before all that, he does seem to have some sort of petty grudge against me and Ingeel. Speaking of, I also want to find out what he means about he knows where Igneel is. He and the other dragons are at."

"Finding Igneel was your goal, yeah. But sadly, I wish I can find some other way to face him. My magic is useless against him." Gray sighed. "Though I don't think I have experimented on my other magic."

"Your other magic?" Kurt asked.

"My Ice Demon Slayer Magic. A type of magic that can effect demons. Fiends, Devils, they don't stand a chance against this magic."

"I... never knew you possess such magic. Come to think of it, I never seen you use it before. Is Demon slaying magic similar to Dragon Slayer magic?"

"Sort of. We still haven't work that bug out that. But it's different then God Slaying magic." Natsu replied.

Kurt blink. "Come again?"

"God Slayer Magic. A special type of magic use to slay gods. Trust me, you'll be surprised how much Fiore's magic has." Happy said.

---

"The Crown Prince, Mirror Mistrel, Ice Dragon and Bloody Shirley are next. This isn't going to be a walk in the park. And if I'm right. Shirley might even go all out." Fie said.

"That wretched girl has been holding back, is she?" Dimitri asked. "Hmm... It's best to remember that."

"She was pretty strong to begin with, but she's really something else now that she's joined up with Ouroboros. I think the Grandmaster did something to amp up Shirley's strength."

"Hmm... I heard a rumor that this mysterious Grandmaster has the power to grant special powers to members of Ouroboros." Byleth said. "It's like me with Sothis when she gave me the power to use the Divine Pulse."

"Thinking that... Could this Grandmaster be some sort of entity?" Dimitri wondered.

"Maybe. Maybe this Grandmaster person must have gave Shirley and the other Enforcers, and Anguis some sort of "blessing". I heard something from Randy and the others that she was different. They said she was ruthless and vicious two years ago... yet I don't sense any of that from her."

Fie hummed. "A Blessing, huh... Maybe I'll ask Palutena or the other gods about it. Do you guys remember Rixia, right? I heard she knocked Shirley down a peg or two. Apparently, the two had a duel and Shirlet got whooped. Maybe that was enough to change her. Of course, I also heard that the Undine Prince, who was 13 back then, was capable of defeating Shirley, despite being older. Of course, it's possible because of the teachings from his mother and late mentor, the Bladelord of Ouroboros. But I have no idea why she's teamed up with the prince now, through. I'm not sure about the other two Enforcers too."

Byleth hummed. "Well I don't know about those two Enforcers, but I did remember Shirley's weapon is name after the Vermillion Knight." He shook his head. "No, I doubt that might be it."

"Perhaps we'll find out during our bout." Dimitri said.

"Yeah." Fie nodded.

---

"Hehm glad that's Scarecrow and those other two are not a problem anymore." Ash fold his arms as he chats with Bowser and Kamek. "Pretty good that we came in and took care of it. I'm sure those two lovely ladies are gonna be real happy to hear that."

"Ah, that's right. Princess Klaudia of Liberl and that secretary from Remeferia." Kamek mused. "I'll be honest. I wasn't expecting that goofball would be some student president during his younger days in Liberl."

"Hmph, that boy would have been a good recruit, if he not been an Ironblood. Though I can't say what future he will hold up after this." Bowser said. "But what about you, Ash?"

"Hard to tell." Ash shrug. "But don't think you'll conscript me like you did with Armbrust. Because I ain't giving a shit about that."

"Oh please. You'll make a fine troop under my care. In fact-"

"Don't you dare say it!" Ash interrupted. "Anyway, that lousy prince and his red knight are next in line for a beating, huh? I'll give 'em one they won't forget. Especially that Ogre girl, Pretty boy and Ice lizard too."

"Look at you, talking all koopa troop material." Bowser smirked.

"Okay, everyone, are you ready?" Rean called out to everyone.

"We're good." Alisa replied.

"Okay, then let's head out." Aether said as they all gather up and then took off to the Hallway B.

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - End of the -SAGA-)

"As expected that we would go through more hallways, but perhaps I'm thinking it's too predictable at this point." Edelgard said.

"But, that is how things goes before preparing for a major fight." Hubert nodded.

"Indeed. But perhaps it also for our goes to stall for time for the war begin." Rosalina said.

"Who can say for sure. Still, we better make this quick." Wendy said.

"I'm sure the battles won't be so long. But while we're on the topic. We should discuss about Dr. Eggman and Salem not being here." Carla said before they see two doors blocking while another path is open to them.

"Hmm, there must be a terminal to open these doors. Let's continue." Erza said as they took off. "Carla is right. It's surprising that Dr. Eggman isn't aboard this fortress."

"Salem just wanted to watch the show, according to Hazel." Lucy said.

"Right. But why would Eggman just leave through? Could it be the same as Salem?" Peach asked.

"Good questions. But the good news is that only Eggman and Salem remaining circle aren't here. But the bad news is the other villains group here." Mario sighed before they found the terminal and activate it to open the doors.

"But we will face them soon." Luigi said.

"Yeah. There are some questions we also need to find out too." Ruby replied

"Right. I better hope they give us those answers too." Weiss agreed

"Who are you talking about?" Donald asked

"Ouroboros." Blake answered as they see another door.

"Oh great, another door. Better find the switch." Yang said as they go to the opposite direction, make to to the end of the hall and make a right turn and found the terminal and activate it, unlocking said door.

"Okay, now we got the door, hopefully, this will be the last one before we can meet up with them." Claude said as they took off.

"You know, these hallways... don't they remind you of the labyrinth of the Keyblade Graveyard?" Sora asked

"Yeah. Back before Ouroboros join us." Goofy nodded.

"I still can't get over the fact those guys would help us." Machias said

"But if you recall what the Fool said, they're not doing this out of the kindness of their hearts. They only did it because certain foes are too dangerous to be around." Jusis said.

"And yet, they're a mysterious bunch. One side, they good, but the other, they're vile." Laura remark.

"Ouroboros has some mysterious ways. You'll think the next crisis we'll allied with them again?" Elliot asked

"Probably. I doubt they'll answer any other questions too." Levi replied. "Say Xehanort. You guys encountered them before right?"

"Ah, yes. They were worthy adversaries." Xehanort chuckled. "And yet they have lost to us during my experiments to Zemuria."

"Really? How many encounters do you Organization XIII have their run with Ouroboros?" Sora asked

Xehanort rub his chin. "Hard to say. Marluxia, Larxene, Xigbar, Xemnas, Ansem, my past self, Vantias and Saix have encountered them during their operation in Zemuria. However, many Enforcers and Anguis were overwhelmed by mine they were force to retreat. Even the Almighty Conflagration was pushed back by Saix."

"Seriously?! I know he was strong, but wow!" Sora exclaimed before arriving the area to the outer wall.

"And we're here outside again... except the air here is tense." Dimitri said.

Celine nodded. "Yeah... Definitely."

"Let's go. It makes no difference who's waiting for us. We'll meet them head-on." Kurt said.

"Yeah! Right on Kurt!" Natsu nodded as they walk a few hallways to areas until reaching the end and made it outside.

Kurt look in the distance as they all see the same type of arena Claire, Lector, Hazel and Tyrian use.

"Figured they'd be here." Ash sighed as they see Cedric, Shirley, Natsume and Alban in the arena in the distance while Shirley just casually wave at them, Natsume casually wrap his arms behind his neck and Alban just place his hand on his hip, but each of them including Cedric let out a smirk look.

"Prince Cedric... Despite everything, he's still one of the most important figures in Erebonia." Machias grumbled.

"I'm afraid we don't have the leisure of worrying about being disrespectful to a member of the royalty anymore, though." Jusis said

"Yeah. After everything he's done, he doesn't deserve it." Ragna agreed.

"There's that ice bastard." Natsu grumbled.

"As well as the Mirror Mistrel. He'll be a difficult opponent to beat." Sara sighed.

"You know, I'm not sure what to say about those two Enforcers, but it's bad when Shirley seems like the more sensible one of the four." Fie said.

"She's a special case of her own, but yeah, Prince Cedric really has raised the bar."

"He's allowed himself to cross several lines that shouldn't have." Laura said.

"Indeed... it hurts me to see how much Dreichel's proud descendants would harm their family name." Lianne sighed.

"Lucky for us, we have the perfect team to handle those guys." Aether said as Kurt step up.

"In the battles leading up to the Rivalry... Please let me take part." Kurt place his hand over his chest. "I'd also like to be on the support team for the Rivalry itself. I've been waiting for a chance to talk to Cedric for a long time now."

Juna nodded. "Yeah, you definitely deserve to be on the team for this."

"You're welcome to join me, Kurt." Rean smiled. "I'll make sure you can call on your Paladin Soldots. Don't be shy. Use it as much as you need to."

"Thank you!" Kurt nodded

"I'll go too." Natsu walk next to Kurt. "Alban and I have some rivalry going on. Plus I wants answers from him too. You can count on me to melt that ice of his."

"Then good luck. I wish I can join you, but even with Ice magic or my strength, I don't think I can rival his." Gray admit.

"Among our enemies, I'm really concerned about the Enforcers." Elliot sighed.

"We should also keep in mind there may be military monsters and archaisms on the way." Alisa added.

Crow palm fist. "Well, sharpen your blades, stock up on ammo, and let's go say hi to them."

"So who else is joining?" Natsu asked.

"I will." Fie said.

"I'll go too." Peach nodded

"I'll also be joining." Roselina said.

"I'll join for the bout." Edelgard offered

"Same with me." Yang replied

"Okay, let's go." Kurt said as they walk toward the stadium and then climbed up the stairs as they saw Shirley, Natsume and Alban waiting for them by the staircase while Cedric was at the end, looking at below.

"Heeeeeeeeeey! Look who's finally here." Shirley said.

"Took you long enough. You know how to keep us waiting." Alban folded his arm.

"Now now." Natsume casually wrap his arms behind his back. "I'm sure they're having a pep talk." He said before all three Enforcers turn to Cedric who then turn to face the group.

(BGM ended)

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

"I must admit. You all surprise me. That you managed to make it into this fortress through very slim changes. I suppose I should commend you all for making your way here." Cedric smirked. "I see many familiar faces are among you." He begin to talk down the stairs. "Oh and among those is Master Xehanort. Although we never met. I heard so much about you from Chancellor Osborne, Olivert and so many others. It truly is regrettable that perish. And then come back from the dead to turn on us in the end. I was hoping to get to know you and the other members of the Organization personally."

"Is that so?" Xehanort rub his chin. "Well if I was still influenced by darkness in another time, it would indeed be an honor to meet you little prince. Though I never expected that you would join the Ironbloods. Since when do you were eager to become an Ironblood? From what I heard, you never even consider becoming one from the beginning."

"Oh. Back then, I heard tales about the Ironbloods and their accomplishments. So I thought to myself— if I were to join the Ironblood... Maybe I too might be able to accomplish something. Something that not even Alfin and Olivert can accomplish. Chancellor Osborne offered a proposal that I couldn't help but take it. To Pilot the Vermillion Knight since I was the one who awakened it, even though it was that wretch Cayenne who shoved me into it. Being able to pilot Testa-Rossa— the Vermillion Knight who wield a Thousand Weapons— the same Divine Knight wielded by Emperor Hector is one accomplishment, no one but me to take."

"I see."

"In any case, Your Highness. We stand before you as members of the Radiant Wings. Not just Thors Class VII, but also heroes from different part of the world." Rean said to him

"The Radiant Wings? My, what a fanciful name." Cedric responded. "Straight out of some fairy tale or another. Yet as we speak, the real world is ablaze with war. Those flames feed the Empyreal Fortress, magnifying its power, and hastening the Great Twilight's climax. It is at that moment, that the Rivalry of the Seven will reforge the Sept-Terrion of Steel. All for the sake of the reborn Lionheart Emperor, Chancellor Osborne!"

"So you knew?" Emma asked.

"I doubt His Majesty would have told you." Gaius added.

"Perhaps the Chancellor, or he found out from his ancestry." Levi guessed. "The Arnor blood and his position as the Awakener of the Vermillion Knight."

"Very perceptive, Sullivan. It is indeed as you said." Cedric walk down. "I had a vision when I first joined the Ironbloods. It only renewed my conviction that this path was the right one. The most powerful chancellor in Erebonian history, and its greatest emperor. This is the man I've chosen to follow. Can you even imagine what an honor it is to walk in the footsteps of such greatness? To contribute to his cause?" He let out a dark grin. "No... Of course, you can't."

"Your Highness..." Kurt said quietly.

"You really have lost it, Prince Cedric..." Peach said quietly.

Bowser scoffed. "Hmph. I wouldn't even let him near Junior with that behavior."

"Perhaps not, but we do know how you sully the Imperial family name countless times already." Levi remarked as he fold his arms. "You were once known to be beloved with your sister. Both by your friends and the people of Erebonia. But now here you are, completely lost it. The Cedric we all once knew would never behave this way, nor crossed several lines, including follow this path of darkness. Even your magic mentor, Konoe, couldn't even look at you. You have no idea how much you disappoint everyone, Especially the gifts from friends and mythical figures who watch over you. Just looking at you right now makes me sick."

Cedric glared. "Hmph! Your vile words don't hurt me anymore, Sullivan."

"Hahaha, what a time to be alive, right?" Shirley asked. "There's so much action going on down on the surface. I'm sure Daddy and the others are really tearing it up! Thinking about this whole war though, it kinda leaves a bad taste in my mouth."

"You?" Alban blinked as he turn to her, looking shocked. "A craze ogre girl who loves fighting, bloodshed, and war suddenly has some humanity in her? What's next, pig's about to fly?"

"Hey, give me a break. Sure I'm all those things as you said, but I learn how to be human once in awhile."

"Define "human"."

"But she has a point you know. This war thing going on really does sit ill with me." Natsume fold his arms as his eyes turn to the left, giving a concerned look. "I mean spilling blood for no just cause really defeats the purpose. Any normal person would think so, if they're not influenced by the curse."

"True." Alban scratch his hair. "Even I dislike it, but what can you do?"

"Are you three dissatisfied with our agreement?" Cedric asked

"Nah, it ain't that. Sure, it'd be fun to raise some hell with the others on the front lines, but I chose to come here." Shirley replied. "At first, It was just because Lady Bell asked me to. But now. I wanna see this through to the end."

"Sames goes for us. I don't see any reason for us to go below like Walter." Natsume nodded.

"I have no interest in dying. But I also don't fear death. Like Shirley, and Natsume, I wanna see this through to the end. Nothing more." Alban replied

Cedric nodded. "Very well, then. I trust you three will fight with your full strength. We'll need it to prepare the stage for the Rivalry, after all. Though, the victor should already be clear."

"Yeah, yeah..." Shirley sighed.

"Whatever." Alban fold his arms, giving a sigh.

"As you say, Your Highness." Natsume sighed.

"You're awfully confident in your chances of victory." Edelgard give a disappointed look. "Though we have you outnumbered, you still believe that you can defeat us?"

"Or perhaps they'll be relying on the fortress's power to grant them immense strength." Kamek remark.

Cedric nodded. "Indeed. Lechter and the Icy Maiden may have squandered it's power... but unlike the two of them, I am the Vermillion Awakener. I can harness it to its full extent!" His eyes had Ishmelga's curse as the dark aura appeared around him. "I can feel it...the fortress has granted me power, and the energy from the war is flowing into me, too. If I'm not careful, I'll end up slaughtering you all. It wouldn't do to make you an immortal now, would it, Rean? I'll take care to let you live for the sake of the Rivalry. Even if you're barely clinging to life, it should still be fine."

"You disgrace yourself." Dimitri glared.

"Indeed. A true noble would never act so disgustingly arrogant." Jusis agreed.

"Your parents and your sister would be ashamed to see you now." Elliot said.

"And also...Prince Olivert." Alisa added.

"Gh...they're the ones bringing shame to our family!" Cedric responded. "We are the descendants of Driechels Reise Arnor, the Lionheart Emperor! It's our duty to carry out his will! Is it written in the Black Records themselves! What further evidence do you need?!"

"Don't you dare insult your family like that!" Sora swing his arm as he glared.

"Yeah! They would never pull the things you've done!" Goofy nodded.

"Yeah! Your sister wanted to end this war before those lives would be gone. Don't you find that honorable?" Donald asked.

"Honorable? What's so honorable about being on the opposing side including wasting more lives?" Cedric asked. "In case you haven't forgotten, who was it that caused all this?"

"It is because your sister's heart of gold that she wants to save this world. And don't you even dare sully her, your family, and even drag Dreichel's very name into this." Aether fold his arms. "He would never wanted this to happen."

"What's more, how exactly are you carrying out his will?" Levi asked. "Dreichel's will was to guide this world to a better tomorrow. This is the completely opposite. Don't you even twist his legacy into your disgusting delusion! The Black Records was only a sign of the worst to come. Something to prepare to go against it. But you, Osborne are just making it happen. What kind of prince are you?"

"What?" Cedric glared.

"Hey, Prince Cedric. Let me ask you something after hearing that. What are you so afraid of?" Juna asked

(BGM ended)

"What?" Cedric calmly asked, raising an eyebrow.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Bonds -Relations-)

"I agree with Levi that you been a serious pain in the ass, but to be honest, I kinda like your style. Way I hear it, you used to be one hell of a scrawny shrimp. But you worked your ass off and actually got pretty strong. I mean, you're no match for me, but still." Ash said

"Out of everyone at Thors, you earned the top score on the midterm examinations. Your academic and military records are exemplary. You're more than suited to one day inherit the future of Erebonia." Musse sighed.

"And Konoe mentioned that you have promising potential in the magical arts too. Even more so than me. Sure the same could apply to Princess Alfin, but... I can tell she was proud of how much process you made so far." Elliot said.

"Not to mention your Pokemon battles. Your love for Pokemon, and statics also help you win countless battles. You rely on your own Pokemon, not using others." Peach added.

"There was something you used to have as well. A good leader... a good person earns their people's trust through compassion and kindness." Altina said.

"Agreed." Levi fold his arm. "Take Edelgard, Dimitri, Claude, Byleth... frankly so many people I could mention for example. And from the way I see it, a prince is a noble soul who care for his kingdom and his people. Prince Olivert is like that. You should have fellow in his footsteps. But everything you're doing right now is the completely opposite. You were even that desperate to trigger the war like that crap you have done in the Pantagruel. I would wonder what would the people think to learn that their prince would perform such a treacherous, vile action. You think they think of you as a hero? No. They would think you... who was once a noble soul, was just a mask. And your true self as a power-obsessed wretch who is eager to spill blood, all for the sake of spitting Dreichel's very name, his legacy, and doesn't give a damn about his family. Some friend to us, son and friend you are Cedric. It's always a wonder how many people abandoned you as their prince. I bet even your Pokemon, can't even look at you."

"Ouch." Natsume grimaced

'As harsh as he put it. He is right.' Aether whispered to Lianne.

'Indeed... Dreciels wouldn't want to see his Descendant behave this way...' Lianne agreed.

Cedric clenched his teeth as he expressed rage. "You wretch... BASTAAARD!" He yelled out a booming voice which flinched the others but not certain few like Levi, Xehanort, Ragna, Edelgard, Dimitri, Claude, Hubert, Aether and Lianne. "You knew absolutely nothing! NOTHING!" Cedric then was surrounded by darkness. "Were you there to stop Ash from assassinating my father right in front of me!? No, you won't! Because that son of a bitch appeared out of that darkness portal and shot my father right in front of me!" He looks at his hand. "Ever since that day, I was horrified, too shocked to even stop Ash and even prevent my father from being shot! I cursed myself for being powerless! I could have prevented it and even taken Ash into custody, but my weakness got the better of me... I thought for sure I might have the courage to stop him... but before I knew it... I took down Ash after my father was... was..." Cedric shook his head and glared. "Ever since that day, I could never forgive him for what he did. You could not even understand what I've gone through! Why else did you think I sided with the Chancellor?! Because Erebonia has been plagued by this curse for far too damn long! The only way to save Erebonia is for everyone from weakness is to destroy that weakness! So what right give you the audacity to lecture me!?"

"You're delusional." Levi sighed. "A weakness is part of humanity's growth. It's what makes us who we are. Without weakness, there's no humanity within oneself. I've seen several people have done some humanity. You've seen it for yourself. Or have you forgotten?"

"Like Allie and Millum did back at the Gral." Juna said.

"Altina was prepared to sacrifice her life to protect us...from you, no less. And it was Millium who saved her and the rest of us, by becoming the Sword of the End. They may have been artificially created, but their selflessness made them more human than any of us there." Kurt told him "How can you feel anything after seeing all that with your own eyes?!"

"S-So what?" Cedric asked.

"But when it comes to you and your dad, you start gettin' all worked up." Ash said. "And then when your sister tries to help you, you fly off the handle at her."

"Why can't you see this Alfin?! This is exactly why I must do this! Seeing Olivert alive makes me feel happy... But those feelings are only for the weak!" Cedric words being remembered in everyone's mind.

"As Sullivan said, you don't give a damn about your family!" Bowser gave him the stink eye as he folded his arm. "From the way I hear it now, you didn't care when your father was shot, you didn't flinch when you thought Olivert was dead, and you sure didn't have any remorse when you tried to sacrifice Altina!"

"E-Excuse me?!" Cedric glare. "You? Some fire-breathing lizard who so eagerly kidnapped Princess Peach would repeat Sullivan's words? You who would be so eager to destroy the Mushroom Kingdom and even force her to marry you. Not to mention you who is stubborn as a mule when you were ending the universe for your Empire with Dr. Eggman? You of all people dare to lecture me as well?"

"And that's exactly why I'm giving you a lecture." Bowser glared. "Because of that mistake, as you said, I almost ended the Universe unintentionally. I vow to never repeat that same mistake. Because I love the world I live in, including my home, my family, my kingdom. Heck, even Mario, Luigi, and Class VII as my worthy adversaries. Even though I've done some manner of damage to Toad Town, Peach's Castle, or even anywhere else, I wouldn't go to the deep end to destroy everything or even spill blood over something so petty. Unless something happens to Junior, then I might reconsider. But even so, evil has standards. And you want to know what I find strange about you? Back then, you never dared to cross lines before. Even after Ash shot your father, it wasn't his doing but was forced by the curse itself. Your father even told you to not blame Ash for what happened to him. Just like Olivert, you stood against the Chancellor until this new persona of yours happened. You treated his words as something holy. As you think as your new father. Or even a god. How would someone like you who love his so dearly family, even honoring his ancestor, so suddenly turn on them for some devil's plan?"

"Sh-shut up! You don't know everything about me!"

"As you said, the Rivalry of the Seven's purpose is to reforge the Sept-Terrion of Steel." Kurt said. "Each of the participants must have unshakeable resolve. Let's say you are able to defeat Instructor Rean and Governor General Rufus. Cedric! Are you truly prepared to fight Chancellor Osborne? The man you've chosen to follow?"

"...?!" Cedric glared. "Of course I am! I'm not some idiot!"

"In that case, then why betray your family to follow Osborne?" Sora asked. "Because he's the reincarnation of Drechels? No, I don't think that's the answer."

"What's more, what's about your promise to Kurt? To Olivert, Alfin... even your family. To all of us?" Peach asked. "You claim that you follow him because you want to rid of the curse. But there is something else behind that. One that only you would know."

"And... why would you go against your father words? To not blame Ash and should something happen that will lead to war with Calvard?" Byleth asked. "You told us something back during the party in Smash Bros after the Organization's defeat. Your promise to us?"

---

Flashback...

"Seriously?! You all took off to defeat Organization XIII?! Why didn't you invited me too?!" Cedric asked.

"Sorry, Cedric, we wanted too, but you were so busy with your schedule... well..." Alfin sighed.

Cedric sighed. "I suppose so... but please, next time something this serious happens, please invite me too, okay. I don't want you to take the spotlight too."

"Spotlight?" Mipha asked. "Anyway, of course. Should happen to this world, can we count on you to join us?"

"Right. Like our future battles with Osborne, should the time comes." Zelda nodded

"Of course! I will come riding my way to aid you guys!" Cedric smiled. "Should the Chancellor's plan to start a war with Calvard happen, i'll make my way to... well... either Olivert or anyone. That's my promise to you."

---

End of Flashback...

"My... promise to you...?" Cedric look conflicted. "Promise... what promise are you-" Suddenly, Cedric felt some of pain as he close his eyes. "Nngh?!" He place his hand over his forehead. "H-Huh... M-My head... what's with this headache...? And... these memories...? Father... he... he did say that... but... why did I..." he turn to Altina while looking horrified. "How could I have said such horrible things...? How could I have done such things to my family...? Why... Why did I...?" Cedric felt a heartbeat, causing him to fell to his knees. "AAAAAAAGH!" Suddenly, a stream of darkness burst out of him.

(BGM ended)

"As we thought." Kamek push his glasses as Cedric fell to his knees. "He finally snapped out of it."

"Yeah... He was under the control of the Gnomes... No, the Ebon Knight." Rean agreed.

"No. He was under Maleficent's control." Shirley corrected.

Kurt gasped "Maleficent?!"

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Things Entrusted)

"Shirley and I confirmed it ourselves back after the event in the Pantagruel. We figured something is up with him back at the Gral." Natsume nodded. "When we left, Shirley and I visited him, but hid our presence as we witnessed Maleficent use her magic on him."

"That would explain the darkness that shoot out of him. She must have manipulated the darkness in his heart." Alban sighed.

"So that's why..." Rean sighed as Kurt clench his teeth and fist with anger.

Sora let out a low growl as he clenched his fist out of anger. "That mean Maleficent did the same thing that she did to Riku and Terra."

Shirley sighed "If I had to guess, she probably was gonna use him as a pawn or something. But whatever the case, I figured I... or rather we should check up on him. Since our weapons share a name, I wanted to see where this went."

"Huh." Fie blinked

"I definitely wasn't expecting that." Sara agreed.

"So that's your reason." Alban mused as Shirley approached Cedric

"Hey, get your shit together, Princey Boy!" Shirley let out a light slap on the back, causing him to cough and gasp.

"Feel okay, kid?" Alban asked.

"I..." Cedric grimaced as he coughed.

"Look, I'm sure being controlled by some witch must be a lot on your mind right now. So what if you're scared or embarrassed to be under her control again? That doesn't mean that you should think it might happen again. And even if she suddenly appears and does it again, I'm sure these guys, including ourselves, would interfere." Shirley said. "Sure you done some messed up things under her control, but who's gonna believe that now? Sure these guys have, but it doesn't matter how messed-up the truth is. It's still the truth and it's still your truth. It's easy to blame someone else, but you know the real reason you came here. It was your own selfishness. If you can't admit that much, you're not gonna get anywhere."

"H-Hey now..." Juna interrupted.

"Stay out of this girl." Alban told her. "She's made a good point. This is his first step, so don't interfere with his growth."

"There's a kinder way to put it." Natsume sweatdrop. "But he is right. If you want the prince to grow, this is a good step. Sometimes, you may need to use tough love to help a person's growth."

Cedric look at his hands as he looked concerned but let out a sigh with. "That's right... I was so envious... of Alfin... Of Olivert... And of Rean and Kurt... All of you. I was envious of anyone who had the potential to become a true hero. All my life, people have compared me to Alfin. They would constantly talk behind my back... I know they found me lacking... And I've always envied Olivert's intelligence and his freedom. It's my fault he felt the need to relinquish the throne." He look at everyone. "You, too, Kurt... I was born so weak, and I've always looked up to your strength and your swordsmanship. But even so, you held on to that ridicious complex of yours simply because of your build. As for the rest of you who journey Erebonia two years ago... You came to my rescue... You fought the Vermillion Apocalypse to set me free... And after that... you all went adventuring to the Mushroom Kingdom. Stopping Fawful and his dark plan to destroy this world from being swallow by darkness... Then some of you even went to Fodlan... Fought your way through a horrifying warzone and defeat the evil of the Agarthans... then... you all go to another adventure into outer space... one of my wishes I wanted to see the outside world. You all fought against Grima the Fell Dragon... and even defeated his Dragon God form. And finally... you all went to the Keyblade Graveyard to face Organization XIII... who was your greatest challenge... Each of you... Alfin... Elise... Olivert... and even Ouroboros back then defeated each of their members... and finally... defeated Master Xehanort and sealed away Kingdom Hearts. I even heard you all went to Pi'illo Island and defeat Antasma. And even before all that. The Old Class VII, the Mario Bros, Those within Fodlan and more along the way adventure to the Beanbean Kingdom, defeat the Shroobs from the Mushroom Kingdom past to take over, and even... for the first time... go with Alfin and Elise to outer space... to venture into the stars to defeat King Bowser and Dr. Eggman." Cedric look down. "Through all that, I was always sitting on the sidelines, watching tales of heroes unfold before my eyes, unable to join them. I know that due to my medical condition after what happened last year and this year, I joined the main campus and made friends with everyone... including the rest of you... I train myself everyday to wield the sword, learning magic from Master Konoe... I was so looking forward to joining you in your adventures... and to stop the Chancellor's plan... But... that's when she appeared."

---

Flashback...

Cedric was in his room panting to himself as he look shocked and horrified. "H-How... How could I let this happen...? Father... He... he..." Cedric's tears stream down. "Ash... Why... How could you..." Cedric then gasped. "No... Father said this wasn't Ash's fault... But... but... Ah." He gasped. "The curse... then... that would mean... I-I need to get Flareon and the others and-"

"Oh, there's no need for that, Prince Cedric." A voice appeared, causing Cedric to flinch as he turn around as a corridor of darkness appeared and came out was Maleficent, Pete, Magica and Signora.

"Ah!" Cedric fell on his feet before he got back on his feet and pull out his sword. "W-Who are you?! How did you-" Maleficent tapped the floor with her staff and placed a soundproof barrier. "Wha-?!"

"Now now, there's no need to be frightened little prince. We promise we won't hurt'cha." Pete grinned.

"That's right. Why don't you be a good little boy and just stay still. We don't want you to join with your friends, now would we?" Magica asked.

Cedric gasped. "Wait... if you came from that portal... that must mean..."

"Hush little prince." Signora did the quiet gesture as she wave her hand and Froze Cedric's leg.

"M-My leg! S-Somone-!" Cedric was going to called out but Maleficent rub her orb and a dark aura surrounded Cedric as he fell to his knees and grasp himself."Auugh... Auuuugh!"

"Worry not dear prince. All will be well for you... All you have to do is sleep..." Maleficent said. "Listen to the darkness in your heart... for they shall open your eyes..."

Cedric slowly raised his head as he stares at Maleficent, Pete, Signora, and Magica one last time, then lost conscious as the screen turn black.

---

End of Flashback...

"Maleficent took away my chance to become heroes... making me do all those terrible things... drive all my friends and family away. Even with all my training... It still wasn't enough." Cedric clench his fist. "I'm still weak." Alban Katate chop Cedric's head. "Ow!"

"You're far from it, Cedric." Alban said.

"Huh?"

"Be that as it may what happened to you, all those training you have done, Pokemon battles and otherwise, that doesn't make you weak. You've been challenging yourself to push yourself to the limit. We all have our strengths and weaknesses. But even weakness can become our strength and strength can become our weakness. You should learn from this. This experience also helps you grow, not only as a person, but also in your heart. No matter how rough life throws at you, you must put your faith in yourself. Never let yourself be called weak. That kind of mindset will only make you valuable. Mind, body, and soul are the keys to one's growth. Learn to rely on yourself, and even others. Power is something that can be honed through means. You may have accepted the Ebon Knight's power while under a spell, but you still made that choice to use that power."

"He's right." Natsume smiled as he kneeled down and placed his hand on Cedric's shoulder. "There are many people out there who aren't affected by the curse and still believe in you. Prince Olivert, Princess Alfin, including everyone here. They were right to place their faith that the you now is still there. You may feel like you lost them now... maybe even forever... but... does that mean it's true to your eyes?"

"I..." Cedric trailed off before looking at Kurt and the others, until his Flareon, Garchomp, Luxray, Braviary and Tyrantrum came out of their Pokemon. "Ah...! Flareon, Garchomp, Luxray, Braviary, and Tyrantrum... Why are you all out here?"

"Flare, Flareon, Flare." Cedric's Flareon smiled.

"Lux. Luxray, Lux." Cedric's Lucray nodded while the rest grew with a happy expression.

"They say that they have been worried about you ever since you were not yourself. But even now that you're free, they're glad you're back. No matter what becomes of you, they'll follow you until the end." Celine translate.

"You guys... you truly mean that?" Cedric asked in shock as his Pokemon responded with a nod and cry. Cedric look down with a smile. "Haha... You guys... You're right." He got back on his feet and Ishmelga's curse symbol appeared in his eyes.

(BGM ended)

"Looks like your ready." Alban let out a smirk.

"Thank you, Shirley, Alban, Natsume." Cedric smiled as he turn to the rest. "And I thank all of you as well."

Suddenly, a Keyblade appeared in Cedric's hand, causing a surprise to everyone, even to Cedric himself.

The Keyblade handle of the vermillion color pillar with a hilt guard is composed circle of red below and orange above with sun rays. The Keychain lines up to a sun. The Blade has a mixture of red, orange, and yellow with swirling line wrap around the blade with the mixture color. The head of the Keyblade has a sun and the teeth are jewel of the sun's ray.

"Wha-!?" Cedric gasped.

"What?" Eracus and Xehanort look surprised as well.

"Is that—" Donald jawdropped.

"No way! A Keyblade?!" Sora exclaimed.

"Okay, now that is not what I would have expect." Rean admit.

"I guess the prince has a strong heart if he is able to wield a Keyblade." Crow remark.

"Ah..." Cedric quietly gasped to himself as a flashback on his head reveal to Liam Randolph whispering in his ear with a grin on his face.

"Should you be free to "yourself", accept your weakness within your heart, you will be rewarded."

"I see..." Cedric whispered to himself. "So that's what Liam meant."

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

Cedric took his stance with his Keyblade in hand. "Now then everyone. You made me confront my weakness. And now... I'll overcome it!"

"Hell yeah! That's what I'm talkin' about!" Shirley got her chainsaw ready.

"Then why don't you show us and them." Natsume brought out his axe.

"And we got your back." Alban took his stance as he smirk.

Ash let out a smirk. "Tch... Maybe we shoulda just kicked you when you were down. Woulda been easier that way."

"Still... I think a fair fight's better!" Juna smirked.

"I agree." Altina nodded. "It's pointless to fight someone who's busy fighting themselves."

Kurt let out a smirk as he pull out his twin swords, but this time it was his ancestor Roland Vander's Twin Swords as he unleashed his battle aura as Rean, Fie, Peach, Roselina, Edelgard and Yang got out their weapons and took their battle stance. "Very well. We accept your challenge! Instructor Rean! Natsu! Everyone!"

"You got it Kurt!" Natsu palm fist as he unleash his fiery aura. "I got some score to settle with you Alban, and I'm going to make you talk."

"Hah! We'll see about that, Salamander!" Alban smirked.

"Oh, that remind me. Flaron." Cedric turn to him.

"Flare!" Cedric's Flareon nodded and then join him.

Shirley pull out her Pokeball. "Let's go Houndoom!" Shirley toss and came out her Houndoom.

Kurt and Fie look at each other and nodded as they pull out their pokeballs

"Let's go, Empoleon!" Kurt throw out.

"You too, Blaziken!" Fie throw her Pokeball and both Pokemon came out.

"Empoleon!" Kurt's Empeleon roared.

"Blaze!" Fie's Blaziken took his stance.

The Fourth Rivalry

Free to himself and First companion - Cedric Reise Arnor and Flaron

Ogre Girl and Fire hound- Shirley Orlando and Houndoom

Devourer of ice - Alban Lindon

Traveler of mirrors - Natsume Kagami

Rean form a combat link with Kurt, Yang form a combat link with Fie, Peach form a combat link with Roselina and Edelgard form a combat link with Natsu.

Kurt form a Pokemon link with Empoleon and Fie form a Pokemon link with Blaziken.

On the opposite side, Alban form a four way link with Cedric, Shirley and Natsume as the main linker.

Alban punch the ground to create several ice pillars toward the group.

"Fire Dragon Brilliant Flame!" Natsu throw a large sphere of fire toward the ice and cause a large explosion as emerge from it was Shirley and Cedric as Cedric swing his Keyblade at Kurt while Shirley toward Fie.

A large shadow covers the group as they look up and see a giant diamond as Natsume lunged toward and kicks it down while Shirley and Cedric jump back until the Dimand is slammed onto the group. Rosalina, however, uses her magic to fire a celestial beam to shatter it into crystals as it scatters onto the battlefield with an explosion. Yang lunged toward Shirley as she threw her fists and kicked at her. Shirley block as Kurt lunged toward Cedric and they both swing their sword at each other. Alban lung toward Natsu and he did the same. They both throw their fist at each other until both each other back as Natsume creates two clones of himself and throw his axe toward Edelgard and Fie. Both of them dodged as Natsume lunged toward to grab it and then slashed Fie and Edelgard, pushing them as they slid.

Peach used Peach Bomber onto the real Natsume and pushed him away as Roselian lunged toward him and punched his left and right cheeks and then uppercut, knocking him into the air as Peach jumped and slashed him down to the ground. Shirley swung wildly as she laughed at Yang as she used her arms as a shield, then throw a few shots at her as Fie lunged toward her as she blocked. Fie swoops at insane speed around Shirley but Cedric channels a large fireball to his Keyblade and aims it at Fie. Fie spotted it and jumped over it, allowing Shirley to jump and they both aerial swung at each other until landed on the ground. Rean lunged toward Alban as he conjured an ice sword and then they swung at each other. Natsume switches his axe to a rifle an then fires toward Rean, forcing him to deflect it and allow Alban to punch him, pushing him back as Cedric follows up by slashing him.

"Fire Dragon Roar!" Natsu unleashes a stream of fire to his mouth.

"Flarreon!" Cedric's Flaron countered it with Fire Blast and both attacks caused a fiery tornado explosion as Kurt used his craft: Twilt Blade 2 toward Alban who used his arm to protect him.

Empoleon run toward Natsume and used Drill Peak. Natsume block as Kurt lung toward him and slashed him, but Natsume split into two to dodge the attack and then close in and shoulder bash Kurt and Empleon together. Shirley follow up by slashing them as Houndoom use Fowl Play onto Kurt.

Struggle in vain! Vermillion Fervor!" Cedic used his Dis Order onto the group.

"Ice Dragon Wing Attack!" Alban's arms was surrounded by ice and snow and swing them to blow a large powerful snow and hailstorm toward Natsu, Yang, Edelgard and Fie.

"Fire Dragon Wing Attack!" Natsu return by using his version as both attack exploded as Edelgard throw her Amyr toward Alban and struck him.

"Ngh!?" Alban grunted as Yang follow up by combo punching him, pushing him back.

"Yahooo!" Shirley used her craft: Murder Strafe to strike through Yang and then fire bullets at her.

Yang recovered as she glare at Shirley, lung toward her and they swing and throw fist at each other until Yang grabbed her arm and punch her. Edelgard then follow up by launching a powerful slash to push her back. Houndoom used Flamethrower toward them as Edelgard's fire barrier protected them as Cedric summon a large red magic circle and bombard the group with magic spheres. Rean lung toward Cedric and they both swing at each other until Rean managed to slashed him as Kurt follow up by slahsing him. Flareon used Dig as he dig a hole and then pop up at Kurt to attack but, but he dodge and counterattacked with his swing, knocking Flareon away. Flareon swirl and landed on his feet and then used Scary Face onto Kurt and Rean to cause them to flinch, which allow Cedric to lung toward them and slash through them with his craft: Melt Saber.

"Empleoon!" Kurt's Empoleon used Aqua Jet and headbutted Cedric.

"Nngh!" Cedric grunted as he shook his head.

Cedric lung toward Empoleon with Flareon, but Rean used True Crimson Slash to halt Cedric and his Flareon as Kurt rush toward them and they both swing at each other. Empoleon then used Hydro Pump toward them as Cedric then used magic to created a barrier. Natsume slam his axe to the ground to create a clever to push Kurt and his Empoleon back as Fie created clones of herself and then slash Natsume. Natsume recovered and then snapped his finger and summon Mirrors to trapped Fie, control the Mirror to shoot her toward Natsu.

"Ice Dragon Crystal Fist!" And then Alban gather ice into his fist and punch both Natsu and Fie back with immense strength.

"Heal!" Peach use Cura onto Natsu and Fie as Rosalina swirl her wind to rain down comets onto Cedric and to the Enforcers.

Rosalina then fire a celestial beam toward him but Nasume used his Semblance to reflect it back at her. Rosalina form a barrier, then said barrier form into a halo and launch it at Natsume, capturing him.

"Huh!?" Natsume grunted as Peach rush in and then gracefully slashed him and a graceful spin slash as Rosalina follow up by punching him, grabbed him and throw him toward Shirley as they crash into each other.

Edelgard imbued Firebrand's power to her Amyr and then lung toward them, slashes them rapidly around them and then slam down, creating fieiry vortex on them, damaging him Natsu jump toward them.

"Fire Dragon Iron Fist!" Natsu then punch them with a powerful fiery punch.

"Nngh/Oof!" Natsume and Shirley grunted as Houndoom used Crunch onto Natsu's arm

"Nngh! Get off me!" Natsu shake Houndoom off his arm but refuse, until Kurt's Empoleon used Hydro Pump and knock him off. "Thanks Penguin guy!"

"Empoleon." Kurt's Empoleon sweatdrop saying its name.

Yang fire bullets onto Cedric as he deflects them as he and Alban's lung toward her. Alban threw first each other at first until switched with Cedric and slashed her. Yang recovered as Fie used her craft: Sweep 2 on them, but Alban waved his hand to freeze the bullets. Fie growled as she swooped in with insane speed to slash at Alban, but he dodged with matching speed until he grabbed Fie and slammed her to the ground. Yang lung to punch Alban, but Cedric throws a fireball at her, knocking her away.

Peach fire a magic beam on Alban and Cedric, knocking them away as Shirley's lung toward her and slashes her. Peach block with her Parasol mode and then swing at each other as Natsume fire bullets toward her. Peach covered herself as Rosalina lung fire a celestial beam at Shirley, pushing her back.

"Houndoom, use Dark Pulse!" Shirley commands as Houndoom open his mouth and fire a black and purple energy toward Rosalina.

Rosalina forms a barrier. But then Natsume snapped his finger, summoned a mirror underneath Roselina, and pulled her into a dimension. Natsume controls the mirror to launch toward Peach and knock her away. Rosalina and Peach recovered, only for Cedric and Shirley to slash through them as Flareon used Fire Blast to explode on them. Rean longs toward Natsume.

"Ice Dragon Brilliant Sword!" Alban intercepted by his ice sword from arm with extended range and slashed Rean.

"Gggh!" Rean grunted.

"Blaziken, Blake Kick!" Fie command.

"Blaaziken!" Fie's Blaziken lung toward Alban and fiery kick him.

"Fire Dragon Sword Hone!" Natsu lung toward Alban with insane speed and strikes him.

Alban was pushed back, he created a sword of ice to impale the ground to keep him from going further out of the arena. Alban glared until he jump into the air.

"Ice Dragon Avalanche!" Alban swings down his arm to bombard the heroes with an avalanche, causing a massive explosion.

Natsume created ten clones of himself and each one changed their axe to a rifle, charged with energy and unleashed a large laser beam onto them, damaging the grup, except for Edelgard who was protected by her fire barrier.

"Let's crush them to ice!" Alban yelled as his combat link glow with Natsume, Shirley and Cedric.

"Hehe, got it/Understood/Of course!" Shirley, Cedric and Natsume readied themselves as each of them lung toward the group as Alban unleashed a powerful punch projection onto Rean and the others, Shirley slash through them along with Cedric and Natsume.

"Ice Dragon Pillar Ray!" Natsume then punch the ground to summon ice pillars to crush the group.

"Gah!" Kurt and the others grunted.

"Haha! I'm all fired up!" Natsu smirked as he channel his arms into fire. "Fire Dragon Wing Attack!" Then he swung his arm, shooting a stream of fire onto Cedric's Team and the Pokemon as each of them dodged.

Kurt lung toward Cedric, Fie lung toward Shirley, Peach lung toward Natsume and Edelgard's lung toward Alban and each of them slash with them as they swipe at each other. Houndoom and Flareon used Flamethrower on Fie and Kurt respectfully but Natsu eat suck in their Flamethrower as Rean then used Arcane Gale onto Cedric, and Flareon and strike them. Yang lung toward Houndoom and delivered a powerful punch to knock away, Roselia teleported to Natsume as Peach switch with her and punch him as he dodged by splitting into two. Natsume creates three more clones of himself until Rosalina channels her fist and punches the ground to create a shockwave to shatter the clones and unbalance the real Natsume as Peach brings out her Frying Pan and smacks him.

"Ow!" Natsume winched as Peach slapped him, punched him, and then switched with her Tennis Racket and slammed him away, allowing Rosa to fire a celestial beam onto him. "Guugh!"

Alban unleashed a flurry of punches and kicks onto Edeglard as she dodged them gracefully and swiftly until she counterattacked by swiftly swing Amyr at him, then unleashed a flurry of slashes on him before she swung upward, knocking Alban into the air as Natsu channeled large sphere.

"Fire Dragon Brillant Flame!" Then Natsu throw it at him and exploded, knocking Alban out of the sky.

Kurt used his craft: Rain Dance 2 onto Cedric as he done his best to avoid his slashes until struck. Flareon throw Shadow Ball to force Kurt back, but Empoleon got in front of the attack and deflect it, then he lung toward Flareon and combo slashes him and used Hydro Pump to knock him away.

"Take this!" Kurt then unleashed rapid slashes onto Cedric and struck him.

"What?!" Cedric winched as he was pushed back as Rean then slashed through him, then unleashed a series of slashes onto him, then slash through him as several phantom slashes struck him. "NNNGH!"

"Blaziken!" Fie's Blaziken threw a series of punches at Houndoom until he dodged and then used Flamethrower to push him back.

Shirley fire several bullets at Blaziken, but he used Detect to avoid protect himself and dodged each bullets and then lung toward Shirley and use Close Combat onto her, knocking her toward Yang who then uppercut her. Fie fire several bullets onto Shirley and struck her as Yang follow by jumping and then punching her, slamming her to the ground.

"Ahahaha!" Shirley got back up with an excited look. "I'm feelin' all tingly~"

"Hehe. So you can withstand my cold." Alban brushed off the dirt as he smirked.

"Hehe. My, my. I never been this wild up." Natsume giggled as he got back on his feet.

"I'm just getting started!" Cedric yelled as he recovered and then surround himself with an aura as he powered up along with Shirley, Natsume and Alban who enter his Ice Drive.

Alban raised his arm high as suddenly weather clouds begin to appear over. "Ice Dragon Hailstorm!" Then swings down his arm and bombards Kurt's Team with an insane amount of hail that's powerful enough to take the stadium.

Cedric raised swing his Keyblade and unleash large X fiery slash projection onto the group, then raised his Keyblade as a vortex of fire and then threw a whirlwind of trust attack onto the group. "Purgatory Saber!" He unleash his S-Craft onto them.

Shirley follow up by unleashing her S-Craft by she readied Testa-Rossa fire form, summon a large magic circle and fire magical bullets and exploded onto them. Then switch to chainsaw mode imbued with fire as she lung, dealing wide fiery slashed onto them, then did the gun gesture and a large fiery explosion harmed the group, which Natsu devour the fire, that annoyed Shirley.

Natsume tap the floor and a gigantic Mirror appeared underneath Kurt's Team, entering a dimension within the Mirror. Several Mirrors appeared as Natsume pop out through all of them, lung toward them and unleash a flurry of slashes onto them before leaving the mirror, grabbed and throw it into the air, aim his Sniper as a magic circle appeared, fire a large bullet to shatter the mirror and exploded, dropping Kurt's Teams onto the floor as they recovered.

"Heal!" Peach use Cura onto the group as Yang used her Semblance and ready to attack.

Yang channel energy to her fist and then punch the ground to create a shockwave to through at the group which they slash it to cleave. Edelgard raised Amyr and channel a vortez of fire and then pull them as a vacuum. Each of them resist, but Rosalina raised her wand as it flash, rain down shooting stars and strike them. Then Rean lung toward Natsume and slash him toward, Fie slash through her and kick her, Yang lung toward Alban, punch him in the gut, grabbed and throw him and Natsu lung toward Cedric and punch his back, knocking them toward the fiery tornado as Rosalina used her Final Smash: Grand Star and throw at the Center of the tornado and exploded on them.

"Now Kurt!" Rean yelled.

"Right!" Kurt nodded as he begin his S-Craft: Gemini Judgement as he lung toward Cedirc, Shirley, Natsume and Alban, unleash a series of powerful slashes onto them, jump into the air, throw lightning slashes onto them and dive toward them. "Gemine Judgement!" And cause a lightning explosion as he pass through the lightning.

"Haha! Not bad all of you!" Alban smirked as he, Natsume and Shirley stand on their feet as the lightning finished, but Cedric seems tired.

"You really know how to put up a good fight." Natsume admit.

"Though it's a shame I couldn't see your Fire Dragon King Mode, Natsu. I was hoping to test you on that."

"Oh please, if I were to go on that mode, it will be overkill." Natsu admit.

"Is that right? In that cause, how about we-" Alban paused when suddenly a surge of mana surrounded the area as the sign of the Rivalry is now ready.

(BGM ended)

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

"Hey, look! The Rivalry is here!" Ragna announced.

"Then it's time to begin." Lianne said.

"Wow! So this is a Rivalry, huh? Nice." Shirley said.

"Yeah. Not bad." Alban mused.

"I must admit, Kurt...you truly are a worthy adversary." Cedric complimented. "But the two of us will have to settle things another time." He raised his arm to the air "To me, Testa-Rossa, the Vermillion Knight!"

"Very well." Testa Rossa said as he appeared with two Zauber Soldots.

"Zauber Soldots!" Donald exclaimed

"He had them ready!" Goofy added

Rean raised his arm as well. "Heed my call... Valimar the Ashen Knight!"

Crow did the same. "Come, Ordine, the Azure Knight!"

Lianne raised her arm. "To me, Aregrion!"

"Acknowledged!" The three Divine Knights said as they appeared along with Kurt's Paladin Soldot.

"All right! The real battle is about to start." Millium commented.

Shirley, Alban and Natsume step out of the way.

"All right, it's up to you now, Cedric." Alban said.

"Show 'em you're a real man now, Pricely boy!" Shirley encouraged.

"Good luck!" Natsume added as each Divine Knights, Kurt's Paladon Knight, and Zauber Soldots readied their members.

"The time has come, Rean." Cedric said. "While I'm nervous to face the Lance Maiden of legend... You're the Ashen Chevalier and the son of Chancellor Osborne. I admired you more than anyone. But now you stand against me, as the hero of the Radiant Wings. I have no choice but to surpass you! The Vermillion Knight, once held by Emperor Hector, then the False Emperor Orthros, is now mine, and I will prove my worth as its Awakener!"

"Very well, I'll give it everything I've got, too!" Rean replied. "We'll fight each other on equal grounds. As awakeners!"

"Allow me to assist!" Kurt exclaimed

"C'mon, let's get this party started!" Crow added.

"Readied yourself, Young Prince. Show me the spirits of Drechels' spirit!" Lianne exclaimed

The Divine Knight who burns like fire - Testa-Rossa

The Gun Wielding Zauber Soldot begin firing toward the group while the other Sword wielding Soldot rush in toward Ordine to slash him. Ordine block and push the Zauber back as Agreion lung toward the Gun wielding Zauber and launch rapid trust attack against him. Kurt's Paladin Soldot and Valimar lunged toward Testa-Tossa to slashed him, but he summon a great swing to slash them first, pushing them. Testa-Tossa lung toward Valimar to launch slashes with his sword, but he block with as Kurt's Paladin used Twilit Sword 2 onto him, which allow Valimar to launch slashes back. The Gun Zauber Soldot push back Agreion with its fist and then bombade with Dark energy bullets. As the Divine Knights and Kurt's Paladin taken a few hits, the Sword Zauber Soldot raised its sword, gleaming with dark energy and lunged toward Kurt's Paladin and deliver some large twin slashes again him.

Kurt's Paladin's withstand the attack as Kurt slash the Zauber Soldot as Valimar used his craft: Waning Crescent Slash to slash all opponents as Ordine swirl his Double Saber and slashed the Gun Zauber Soldot. Agreion used her craft: Ultimate Saber onto the Zauber and Testa-Tossa as a follow up. Testa-Tossa summon a red bow, pull it string as it form into a red arrow and unleash the arrow toward Valimar. Valimar deflected the arrows with the Sword of the End as Ordine used his craft: Blade Throw onto him. Testa-Rossa summon his sword to block the attack while Kurt's Paladin Soldot lung toward the Gun Zauber Soldot to slash it, only for it to be block by its gun and then fire at him. The Sword Wielding Soldot then lung toward Agreion to slashes it with dark energy. Agreion block it with her lance they both swing at each other as the Gun Wielding Zauber jump into the air and bomard them with Dark Bullets. Testa-Tossa follow up by throwing fire theme slashes toward them group.

The Divine Knights and Kurt's Soldots split up to avoid the attacks as Valimar then perform his craft: True Hexil onto the Gun wielding Soldot while Ordine follow up by slashing him and destroying it. Meanwhile Kurt's Paladin's Soldot imbued his sword with green and blue energy and unleash a series of slashes onto the Sword to push it back as Agreion throw a trust attack and then destroy it by slashing it rapidly until it was destroy. Testa-Rossa summon several weapons around him and throw them toward the group to attack them. Each of the group deflected it as Testa-Rossa gathering energy and form a large sword as it summon a vortex of fire on the tip of the sword. he swing down onto the group to cause a fiery explosion. As the group recovered, Agreion raised her Lance high and used her craft: Anglican Hammer to strike lightning from above. Ordine rushed in and unleash a series of slashes and then spin slash to push Testa-Tossa back as Kurt's Paladin lung toward him. They both swing at each other as Valimar took a stance, waiting for the moment. Testa-Rossa manage to push Kurt's Paladin back, only for Valimar to lung toward him and then slash through him, unleashing phantom slashes against him.

"Ggnh!" Cedric grunted.

Agreion readied her lance and lung toward Cedric and unleash rapid trust attack. Testa-Tossa did his best to block them but taken some hits before Agreion trust attack and stepping back. Ordine swirl his Double Saber, gleaming with energy and unleash a wide X slash projection onto him as Kurt's Paladin Soldot's sword gleam with black and white energy, throw a wide X slash energy toward Testa-Tossa as well. Both attack collide with each other to combine a devestrating strength against as Valimar raised the Sword of the End and then swing down, throwing down several slashing from above. Testa-Rossa switch with a bow, charge his arrow and shoot it from above, the arrow then multiple to many and bombard the team with fiery arrows. Testa-Rossa them summons twin sword and imbued them with red power and unleash a larger X slash onto the group to push them away.

"This is over for you!" Cedric declared as he switch with a lance this time, charge it and unleash a whirlwind of flames toward the group.

"Not yet, it isn't!" Rean declared as he calmly took his stance and then unleash a wide slash that cut the whirlwind to disapate.

"What?!"

Crow unleash a warcry as Ordine lung toward Testa-Rossa and slashed through him, follow up was Agreion imbued her lance with power and then trust through him, swing her arm and a whirlwind of slashes appeared. Kurt's Paladin Soldot then join by throwing a series of slashes onto him and Valimar then finished the attack by taking his stance lung toward Testa-Tossa. Testa-Rossa was going to block, but he strike through, causing a wide slash to hit on him and Testa-Rossa begin to be static.

"How... can this be..." Cedric responded as Testa-Rossa fell to his knees.

(BGM ended)

"So it's finally over." Shirley said

Alban sighed. "What a damn shame."

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Sorrow Flower)

Testa-Rossa begin to transparent as Cedric exit out of his cockpit and fell to his knees.

"I... Lost? What have I done...?" Cedric then look at his hands. "I helped start this war... I stood idly by when my father and brother nearly lost their lives... I've broken all of my promises... turn all of my allies against me." He shook his head. "It can't possibly be real! It can't, it can't... Father... Mother... Alfin... Olivert... Tell me this is just a bad dream..."

"Flare..." Cedric's Flareon approached him with his other Pokemon.

"Flareon... Luxray, Braviary, Tyrantrum, Garchomp..." Cedric shivered but he sighed. "No... This is real, isn't it?"

"Luxray..." Cedric's Luxray nodded.

"Haha..." Cedric let out a light laugh as he slightly turn to Testa-Rossa. "The truth was that I simply wanted strength above anything else... Even if I was under the control of Maleficent... All I wanted was to be a hero... that chance will never come it seems. Now I must accept the consequences. Isn't that right, Kurt?" He look at him as Crow, Rean, Lianne and Kurt exit out of their Divine Knights and Paladin Soldot.

"Yes." Kurt nodded as he approached and place his hand on Cedric's Shoulder. "I, too, hated my weakness and wanted to get stronger. We both may have walk the same path together, but the past is the past. We need to see one another for who we are now. As Equals, as rivals. But most importantly, as friends."

Cedric let out a weak chuckled. "I knew you would say that... I would expect no less from a Vander... No, from you, Kurt... This... might be some dream but... maybe in that dream... you and I can be side by side as we walk this path of light. Kurt... I have one order... no... a request from a friend. The rest of you as well..." Cedric let out a warm smile. "I can't do what I've already done under a spell but... Go forth... go save this world from... the Ebon Knight..." Then Cedric collapsed onto he ground as he was exhausted.

Testa-Tossa's power then went into Valimar.

"Is he going to be okay?" Altina asked in concern as he and the others approached.

Kurt nodded. "Yeah... It seems like he just lost consciousness. I can only imagine the toll all of this must have taken on him."

"Even though he's not an Immortal, I'm sure losing a Rivalry didn't help him any. He probably burnt through all his mana." Crow sighed.

"Yeah, I think so too." Ruby nodded. "But what should we do? We can't just leave him here."

"Ah, don't worry about it." Shirley said as he, Natsume and Alban approached, though, Shirley look tired. "We'll keep an eye on him."

"Hm? Shirley, you look completely exhausted yourself." Dimitri remark.

"Though your colleagues seem to be all right." Edelgard added

"She must have been lending the prince her strength during the Rivalry." Celine guessed.

"Yep, sure was. Usually, I'd be able to fight for three days straight if I had to. But I'm not feelin' so hot right now." Shirley sighed. "Honestly? This might be your best chance at taking me down. I'm game if you wanna try."

"Wh-What is wrong with you?!" Machias exclaimed

Juna sighed. "Man, Randy was definitely right about her."

"Shirley you big lummox. You're in no position to say that." Alban sighed. "I would smack you on the head for that, but you're too vulnerable in your current state."

"No. You've actually been holding back this whole time, haven't you Shirley?" Rean asked. "I could say the same to Alban and Natsume. But unlike them, they didn't lend their full strength to Prince Cedric during his Rivalry. I noticed it way back in the Gral. Ever since then, you've been focused on looking out for Prince Cedric above anything else."

"Now that you mention it..." Levi rub his chin. "So you do have a soft spot after all."

"Wow... you're perceptive as I heard..." Natsume complimented.

Shirley sighed. "Not really sure how to explain it. I just can't shake the feelin' I should be keepin' an eye on him. Makin' sure he's okay. It's not like he's even my type. I'm more into girls, anyway."

"Of that... there is no question." Natsume scratch his cheeks. "Perhaps... you see him something similar to you?"

"But judging from that... it feels like you were looking out for him as... if he was family to you." Alban rub his chin.

"Family... Huh..." Shirley turn to Cedric. "Maybe that's why... Maybe he's like a little brother to me." Shirley then fell to her knees as her Houndoom bark in concern. "It's okay Houndoom... I'm... I think I'm gonna... need a nap soon." She turn to the grup. "You've gotta deal with Mr. Jade Rook next, but you might run into Lady Bell, Taggy, Noelie, Campy, Nu-blue and Dimito on the way. Good luck... you're gonna need it..." She said as she fell conscious onto Cedric as the Emblem appeared underneath before vanishing as back in the garden, another locked door is now opened.

"Just now... Did you all feel that?" Musse asked.

"Yes. Another path has opened." Gaius nodded.

"No rest for the wicked, eh?" Ash asked

"Nope." Bowser replied.

"We're doing very well so far, though. The Forth Rivalry done." Alisa stated.

Rean nodded. "I could feel the Vermillion Knight's power flowing into Valimar." He turn to him. "You don't look any different though, Valimar. Were you able to get any new abilities at all?"

Valimar nodded. "Yes. I now possess Testa-Rossa's Thousand Weapon ability. I would expect that to make quite the difference in the battle against the Auric and Ebon Knights."

"Yep, yep, he's definitely powering up with each Rivalry!" Millium cheered.

"That'd be a lot of help." Rean smiled.

Levi sighed. "You know, I feel very bad for all those things I said to him. I thought he was under the Ebon Knight's control... but instead... it was Maleficent."

"It wasn't your fault. I don't think any of us would expect." Kurt sighed before he look mad. "Still..." He clench his fist. "How dare that vile witch..."

"Yeah... She took away his dream, didn't she?" Elliot asked.

"Oh, Cedric..." Peach sighed as she look at him and Shirley unconscious.

(BGM ended)

"You guys don't need to worry about the prince and Shirley. We'll look out for them." Alban said to them. "I'm sure their Pokemon would agree to the join too."

(Pokemon Super Mystery Dungeon ost - Partner's theme Music Box)

Cedric's Pokemon nodded in respond while Shirley's other Pokemon, Toxitricty, Corviknight, and Grimmsnarl came out of Shiley's Pokeball and respond with a nod.

"Thanks, you guys. We really appreciate it." Rean smiled.

"You won't have to worry about them or us interfering as well." Natsume nodded. "Go forth on your battle against the Jade Rook. But you better be careful. He's a pretty twisted person behind that handsome smile of his."

"We know that in advance, though." Jusis sighed "Rean, Crow, Kurt. You need to rest up. Let's go back to our base in the garden."

"Oooh, Jusis is taking charge! How cool!" Millium cheered

"He's certainly got a knack for it." Rean chuckled.

"Looks like it." Levi smiled

"Hey, I'm the one taking the lead here!" Bowser argued.

"Mama mia." Mario sighed.

"In any case, shouldn't we be worried about Ouroboros members potentially ambushing us before we even get to Rufus?" Sara asked.

"You're right. Shirley mention we might run into several Enforcers, including the Third Anguis herself." Rosalina nodded

"Don't forget the Jester, too." Luigi added.

"The same one who took Father away and place the curse on him." Laura muttered.

"Don't forget Nu too. She'll be a pain in the ass to deal with." Ragna asked.

"Let's think of a plan to deal with them." Kamek suggest.

"Right. Let's head off to the base and rest up." Byleth nodded

"Yeah. Let's go. Oh before that." Natsu turn to Alban. "Alban, there are questions that I still want to ask you. Is it really true you know where Igneel is."

"I already told you my answer. He's been with you the whole time. I can assure you I don't mean he's dead. If you really want to answer our of me. You got to defeat me. But you got more important things to settle the scores with me." Alban replied.

"Fine, you're right. So you better wait for me. Because once this is over, we'll have our bout. Deal." Natsu smirked

Alban let out a "hmph." but with a smile. "Deal."

"By the way, Kirt. I just wanted to say that you did a great job back there, getting through to Cedric." Rean smiled. "The Rivalry went well, with no regrets on either side, thanks to you. Well done."

"Oh..." Kurt blink. "It was nothing, really."

"It was!" Laura smiled. "You bring pride to the Vander family."

"That's right!" Juna approached him and hold his hand with a smile. "Keep your head high. You're the hero today!"

"Yeah. You deserve something special for how you handle him." Mario nodded.

"Heh, your rousing speech did get a lil' cheesy at some part though." Ash chuckled.

"Yeah, like Sora, or Rean." Donald nodded

"Haha. He isn't wrong." Sora chuckled.

Kurt smile. "Thank you, everyone. And thank you, Juna. It means a lot. And I'll do all in my power to see us through to the end."

"Well then, everyone good luck." Natsume waved at them with a smile as they headed to the garden. "You know, I'm surprise they didn't arrest Cedric."

"I'm sure they were in no position. Either way." Alban look down at unconscious Cedric and Shirley. "It's not of our business what happen to him."

"You're right. So... wanna make out while we wait?"

"Hell no."

---

And Thus, the fourth Rivalry is complete. Now to deal with Ouroboros. Oh yeah! Please welcome a New Keyblade Wielder! Cedric Reise Arnor everyone!

Here is the enemy list for Natsume and Alban

Alban the Ice Dragon: Ouroboros Enforcer No. IV. An Ice Dragon Slayer who can devour and immune to all elements of ice, snow and the cold. He can freeze anything with his magic.

HP: 398912

Natsume the Mirror Minstrel: Ouroboros Enforcer No. XIV. His semblance can reflect all manner of projections attack and can summon mirrors to aid him in battle. Capable of trapping his opponents within his mirror.

HP: 303294