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?

38. Saints of Legend

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Little Rain)

Rean was bathing to himself as he hummed for a moment. 'Lianne Sandlot... The Maiden of Legend... and Aether... the Golden Wanderer. I caught sight of them in the Spectral Moon Mirror, and they were so incredibly kind and merciful. Their affectionate gaze wasn't only directly at 'him', but also at my mother, and even me as an infant. I kind of get why Duvalie and the others adore her so much now. Especially Aether. Who would have guessed the person we met in the Beanbean Kingdom those years ago was someone who existed since the beginning of Erebonia's birth? He's been watching over the Hexen Clan, stopping the Ebon Knight from spilling so much blood as best he could. I'm not sure how gods are born but... he definitely earn his place among the noblest of gods.' He thought to himself as he heard a door open on the other side. 'Oh, it seems that someone's here. But this presence...'

"Oh?" A familiar voice asked

"Is that you, Schwarzer?" Another familiar voice called out.

Rean look surprised and then chuckled. "Duvalie? Is that Sharon with you? Wait, there's two more person, too, right?"

The woman's voice giggled. "Perceptive. It is a big deal, after all."

"I'm not sure where the "deal" part you mentioned." The other woman sighed

"Oh, so it's Mona and Angelica." Rean said.

"I see you're also relaxing before the showdown." Mona said

---

On the women's bathing room...

"The Stella Sanctuary's pillar of light..." Angelica mused.

"Under there, the Seventh Anguis, Enforcer No. XVIII, the Stalritter and the Golden Bladelord... no... The Golden Wanderer..."

"...are certainly to be waiting, fully prepared." Rean said.

"Indeed. I was always wondered how my scpyglass always so little when we first met and travel together. To think I was walking with a god." Mona said, recalling her time with Aether before noticing Duvalie. "Duvalie, is something wrong?"

"I'm all right." Duvalie replied. "I'd like to thank you. Angelcia, Sharon, Mona, and most of all, Schwarzer."

"Oh..." Rean replied as he smile on the other side.

"Duvalie..." Sharon also let out a smile

"At the Radiant Blademaster Trial at Orchis Tower, and also at the Draco Shrine before that..." Duvalie said solemn. "At least let me thank you."

"Duvalie..." Rean said smiling.

"Heh, but part of your hard work involved helping us out, of course." Angelica smiled. "And we were enemies at some point, weren't we?"

Sharon giggled. "And I also, until fairly certainly, stood before you as an adversary. I cannot thank you enough, Duvalie, for providing Lady Alisa and Rean with your support."

"And I want to thank you for being a good friend to us as well. Even if you refused to admit it, your heart is in the right place. We admire that." Mona smiled.

"Well, you were all continuously supporting Class VII well before that, right? Duvalie asked. "The flow of everything thus far has led to this path to my lord, as well as the Rivalries. As I said before, I really must thank you."

"Haha... I see..."

"Let's do this together, then. She's strict, but kind. I'm sure our feelings will reach her." Rean said

Duvalie let out a sigh of satisfaction. "This bath has truly refreshed both mind and body. The same battlefield as the War of the Lions awaits... It's about time that we finished our preparation and head out!"

"You got it, Duvalie!" Mona nodded

"Aw, I was hoping you and I could relax a bit." Angelica sighed. "But it might be better to leave that for afterward. Just so it won't be a distraction for you."

Duvalie blushed. "D-Don't you start imitating that red-haired menace!"

Rean sweatdrop in his hand. "Yeah, I heard from Randy..."

Sharon giggled. "She seems famous over at Ouroboros, along with the Third Anguis, Enforcer No. XIV and IV."

---

At the same time in St. Ursula Medical Collage...

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - St. Ursula Medical Collage -Sen Ver-)

"So this is St. Ursula Medical Collage? Wow it's lovely." Peach said, walking with Roselina, Kairi, Juna, Aqua, Levi, Byleth and Yuri.

"No kidding. You know, we should build a hospital that has a beautiful view of nature." Yuri said.

"Haha, that would be a good idea. We have to talk this over with everyone." Byleth nodded.

"It's a good thing the Imperial Defence Force aren't here. But at the same time, I'm quite disappointed because their job is to protect the Emperor, right?" Levi asked.

"Perhaps because the Imperial Defence Force in Crossbell mostly likely loyal to Rufus then the Emperor." Roselina said.

"Most likely the case." Polari said. "So this is where the Emperor is, right?"

"Right. His heart operation will be starting soon." Levi said before he look up the rooftop. "Oh, there someone on the roof. Is that Her Highness?"

"Oh! Let's go pay a visit." Peach suggest as they made their way to the rooftop.

"Thank you for coming, Your Highness! Cecile smiled. "I've prepared a special room for you, so please, try to rest for now."

"Thank you. I know that my visiting must take a toll on everyone." Priscilla smiled back

"Cecile! Your Highness!" Juna called out as they met up with them, causing them to turn.

'How wonderful to see all of you."

"Your little performance was quite something. Good job with Orchis Tower, too." Cecile added

Juna giggled. "So you made it back here, too, Cecile? It's an honor to make your acquaintance again, Your Highness! I hope you had a safe journey here?"

"That I did. Just arrived a few hours ago." Priscilla nodded. "I heard there has been quite a commotion in Crossbell City..."

"Oh you must have heard about Arc in Ciel. Don't worry. The situation is under control." Levi said as he explain to her.

"I see. The Viscount, too, then?" Priscilla sighed in relief. "I'm relieved Sharon was able to save him before that awful man plans to end him. The thought of losing such a wonderful man pains my heart. I'm tremendously glad that everyone, including Prince Olviert, returned safely."

"It looks like Lloyd and the others are doing what they can for Sully." Cecile said. "It sounds like we have a lot of people to thanks. Not just Estelle, but everyone here, too!"

"You're too kind, really." Levi smiled. "Oh that reminds me. Isn't it time for His Majasty's operation?"

Priscilla nodded. "That's right, and it looks like everything is ready. In two hours time, he'll be under general anesthetic and being prepared for heart surgery."

"I see..." Byleth rub his chin. "Hey... wouldn't it be best to bring Princess Alfin and Prince Oliver over here?"

"That would be nice, yes. But we should be careful." Peach said.

"We should contact the Courageous II and bring them over here. Or at least have someone teleport them here as we speak." Roselina suggest.

"If you like Empress Priscilla, we can call them now to send them over." Kairi suggests.

"Y-Yes... I think that would be best for His Majesty." Priscilla nodded in agreement as she turn to Cecile.

"Giveng a patient courage before surgery is crucial after all." Cecile nodded. "I'll ask for Doctor Seiland's permission."

(BGM paused)

---

Later...

(Super Mario Galaxy ost - Lumas)

"Father! We'ce came to see you!" Alfin said, Accompanying her and Olivert were Elise, Rean, New Class VII and his team. "I...I-I..."

"Gardevoir..." Alfin's Gardevoir comfort her along with Sylveon.

Eugent chuckled. "It's good to see you safe, Alfin. And Olivert... I thought I'd never see you again..."

"It is indeed a marvel of Aidios... Or should I say a marvel of fate?" Olivert smiled. "Though I suppose it'll now soon be your turn at its crossroad, Father."

"Olivert..." Priscilla said solemn

"Haha... So it would seem. How is everything going for you?" Eugent asked

"All is well. Her devotion alone is as potent as salve as any." Olivert smiled

"Her?" Alfin asked. "You mean..."

"The woman you're always speaking of?" Priscilla asked

"That 'passionate soul' you met in Liberl, I assume." Eugent said. "I hope you'll introduce me to her once say, should we overcome the hardships set before us. Provided, of course, that she managed to see beyond your 'debauchery' by then..."

"Not to worry! I am my father's son, after all." Olivert chuckled as he flip his hair.

"Hah! Well said." Eugent chucked as Priscilla giggled.

"Oh, come now, Olivert." Alfin sighed

"Your Highness." Elise smiled along with her Pokemon.

Eugent turn to see Rean and the others. "It's been some time, Rean. Levi and your students told me what had become of you."

"Thank you for your warm words. I'm glad to see you well, too, Your Majesty." Rean smiled. "We've managed to bring things to light. The truth about Emperor Dreichels, as well as the heavy burden shouldered by each emperor, one after another."

"I see... You gazed into the reflecting pool. Then I have nothing more to tell you about the chancellor, nor the Great Twilight. I trust together, your strength will overcome this, no matter the path you tread. Together with the Radiant Wings, that is."

"Of course." Rean place his hand over his chest. "We won't let you down, Your Majesty."

"Yeah! Just leave it all to us!" Juna nodded

"You just focus on getting through the operation, okay?" Ash asked. "Hell, if some numbnuts with a gun couldn't even kill you,, no way any stupid surgery's gonna."

Eugent chuckled. "I suppose you know that better than anyone, Ash Carbine."

'This is the first time I've ever met the emperor of Erebonia up close like this.' Duvalie whispered

'We had an audience with him back in the Old Class VII.' Crow replied. 'This guy's been keeping the whole empire afloat. Both on the surface and below the folds.'

(BGM ended)

---

Later...

(Resuming St. Ursula Medical Collage -Sen Ver-)

"Thank you Olivert. Alfin and Elise, too." Priscilla smiled. "And all of you. Rean, Ash... Words are not enough to express my gratitude."

"Wh-Whatever. I just..." Ash said, Solemn.

Juna sighed. "Oh, come on, Ash. Just be nice and accept the thanks for once."

"Moving on. Now that the patient is under, the surgery should begin shortly." Rean said.

Olivert nodded. "The moment of truth is upon us. But Father being Father, I imagine he'll pull through."

"Yes... I'm sure of it." Alfin said

"And I know that Aidios and the other gods will be watching over him." Elise nodded

"I promise that I will do whatever it takes to return your father to you happy and healthy." Doctor Siland said. "Cecile, gather the staff for a final pre-surgery meeting."

"Right away, Doctor." Cecile nodded

"Right. All right guys. Let's move out." Rean said as his team nodded and head back to the Courageous II to made their way to the Wetland.

(BGM ended)

A few minutes later and finding a good spot. Rean, Levi, Duvalie, Juna, Aqua, Sora, Kairi, Riku, Xehanort, Eraqus, Ventus, Crow, Emma, Laura, Kazuha and Byleth arrived hop off the Courageous II.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - All-Knowing One - Sen Ver.-)

They begin to walk their way to the Stella Sanctuary where they go through a few paths before getting close.

"Hey, Levi, Juna. You said you guys came here to the Lake Elm wetlands before, didn't you?" Rean asked.

Juna nodded. "Yeah, but this will be the first time we explore this side of the area."

"Last time, it was full of the Imperial Defence Force. No... perhaps I should Rufus's units instead of them." Levi added. "Now that those guys are done, we can finally go through here."

"New territory, huh?" Crow asked. "So we must be in a different spot than where they awakened the Auric Knight."

"If we use that pillar of light as our guide, we should reach the sanctuary soon enough." Duvalie said.

"Your right. Come, we don't have time to waste." Aqua said as the time is already sunset.

Rean's Team walk their way, following the Pillar of light.

"Ah." Duvalie said. "This is near where we faced off against the SSS two years ago."

"Wait, really?!" Juna gasped.

"We didn't actually end up engaging in battle, however. Now that I think about it, my lord was particularly taken with this area even back then."

"Is that so?" Levi asked while Rean hummed

"Maybe she already had an inkling of how this would all play out." Crow struggled until they arrived at the entrance to the Stella Sanctuary.

"Oh! There's the entrance to the sanctuary." Juna pointed.

"About time. Gettin' here was tougher than I thought." Crow said.

Byleth turn to Duvalie. "Duvalie, are you ready?"

Duvalie let out a deep sigh and nodded. "Yes. I'm prepared."

"All right. Then let's head inside."

"Right!" Juna nodded

"Man, I'm feeling more tense then ever..." Ventus said.

"Well, it's no different to how we were with Xehanort." Aqua said.

Xehanort let out a small amusing smirk. "I'm honored you hold me on such high praised."

"That wasn't a compliment." Aqua sighed as they took off and entered the Sanctuary.

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Perfect Stage)

As they enter the Sanctuary, they all surprised of the field this time. This time it was a space setting of the cosmos. Where there are moving rocks, planets, and nebula.

"So this is the Stella Sanctuary. It's beautiful. It reminded me of those times we ventured out of the world's atmosphere and explored different galaxies." Juna said.

"Your right. But despite that, there's also tension in the air." Kazuha remark. "It's without question that someone is waiting for is."

Duvalie nodded. "Yes. I sense the aura of battle, clear as day. I'm sure our opponents are also aware, of the significance this place has held to our lord over these past two and a half centuries. And for the Golden Wanderer too."

"Well, now. Wouldn't wanna let 'em down, now would we?" Crow asked.

"Make no mistake, our opponents are proud warriors who will wipe the floor with us if we let down our guard for so much as a second." Rean said.

"Be ready to engage at the moment's notice, and don't even think of holding back to save your strength for later." Duvalie replied. "No matter what-or who- stands in our way, we shall cut them down and reach my lord hale and hearty!"

"Yeah! Let's do this!" Ventus nodded

Laura chuckled. "Spoken with the unwavering conviction of the Stahlritter."

"Glad to have you with us." Rean smiled.

"Enough with the motivational speeches. Let's get a move on!" Crow replied

They begin to move forward as they climb up the stairs and walk toward the path ahead of them where they encounter monsters and Heartless blocking their path, but they soon dealt with them. They begin to encounter a barrier where there is a monster and heartless guarding the barrier and then begin to dealt with it.

"This barrier is similar to that of the Luna and Draco Shrine." Levi mused. "But this one is a mixture of fire and time mana."

"Like the previous sanctuaries, there has to be a mechanism that deactivate them." Rean said.

"Considering the path over there is available, I say we'll have our mechanism there." Byleth pointed.

"Then let's get going. We wouldn't want to keep them waiting." Ventus said

"Hold on." Xehanort summon his Keyblade and fired a beam of light to the barrier and it deactivated it. "There."

"Wha- it can deactivated like that?!" Levi exclaimed

"Well, the Keyblade can unlock almost anything." Eraqus said.

---

Back in the Courageous II...

Terra sweatdrop. "I should have done that back in the Draco Sanctuary..."

---

Back to them...

"Well, at least we can make a note of that." Riku said. "With that done, let's go." He said as they climb the stairs and look around the sanctuary.

"The stars here are absolutely beautiful, but… also a little creepy." Juna trailed off.

"Yeah. They're sparking like gems, but the sky's being swallowed up by the fire of war." Crow nodded

"They burn as sharp and bright as the determination in my lord's eyes." Duvalie replied.

"Not to mention Aether, too..." Byleth sighed

"Beautiful and gloomy as it is... it's nothing like the galaxies outside of this world..." Levi sighed.

"No kidding." Palutena said. "Even Rosie agreed."

"Wait was the Goddess of Light?" Duvalie asked

"Yep. She did project us a live footage of the Draco sanctuary before." Aqua said.

"Right. We're all be supporting you from here. If there are any comments, I'm sure we can patch something in." Palutena replied until the group climbed up the stairs and see two fork in the road.

"There are two roads here. Which one should we take?" Sora asked

"The path ahead of you. That one leads you to a mechanism to get across while the other one is a dead end." Rise said.

"Rise and I will help navigate as best we can." Oracle said.

"Okay, now I got questions. How are they able to navigate the sanctuary?" Duvalie asked.

"Our Persona are support types, mostly for... well support and navigations. As for how..." Rise paused.

"We may not be in the sanctuary like you guys, but with Palutena's help and Nahida. We were somehow able to scan the inside of the Stella Sanctuary." Oracle explained

"In that case, we'll be counting on you guys in case." Rean said where they spotted the mechanism where it's guarded by another Crescent Knights and Star Cayons.

They begin to confront them in battle while Kazuha approaches the mechanism and notice it was a switch. He pressed it and on the other side, the elevator began to appear. Kazuha went bach as Sora rained down Thundaga and then Shotlock Divine Zemuria onto the Crescent Knight and destroyed it while the others dealt with the Star Cayons. They used the elevator to make their way up to the next platform where they arrived at a large area where Ennea awaited them.

"Welcome, everyone." Ennea greeted.

"Ah, it's her!" Juna said

"Greetings, Ennea." Duvalie replied.

"Ol' deadeye with the orbal bow, huh?" Crow asked.

"Hello, Duvalie, Class VII and friends. And of course to Master Xehanort as well. What a pleasure to see you." Ennea said. "I hear Arc en Ciel's popularity has been soaring as of late. A shame I wasn't able to attend the latest performance in person. The young lord was kind enough to send a live footage."

"Yeah, I wish I could've seen it myself." Rean agreed. "Would be a pity if the world got annihilated in the near future and we couldn't ever go see a play together."

Ennea giggled. "Touche. It's no wonder Duvalie forsook us to abscond with you."

"Do not mock me." Duvalie said. "I left because I yearn to discover what our lord's true intentions are." Then she and the others pull out their weapons. "If you're going to stand in my way, I will show you no mercy."

"Whoa, Duvalie…" Juna whisper

"Quite the resolve there." Levi smiled

"Heh. Good to see the fire still burns in our head knight." Ennea smiled. "You know about the cult... that disgusting organization that venerates devils that our young lord suffered so. My, how much the two of us have so much in common. That cult is no different from those disgusting Agarthans in Fodlan. My parents offered me to them as a test subject. Learning to use an orbal bow was the only happy byproduct of that vile exchange. But it was our lord and Duvalie who rescued me...who wrested me back from the blink and helped restore my humanity. Just like the young lord. My debt to you will never be fully repaid."

"Ennea..." Duvalie trailed off.

'By 'that cult', she must mean...' Juna whispered

"Yes. The D.G Cult that experimented on children to give them supernatural abilities." Palutena said through telepathy.

"The same cult, no different to Those who slither in the dark with their experiments." Edelgard joined the telepath through Palutena's help. "Another person can we relate..."

'She's really been through some shit with the Undine Prince.' Crow replied.

(BGM ended)

Ennea pull out her Pokeball and throw it into the air and called out her Decidueye as two Sleipnir F2-0 and two Water-Form Giant Clams appeared as Ennea jump toward the Platform where Decidueye flew next to her.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Mighty Urge)

"Our lord along with her closest friend will be your final opponents here." Ennea said. "Due to your absence as our head knight, Duvalie, I now take up the mantle. You understand what that means, right? I will not back down." She activated her Radiant Star formation and summon her arrow.

"I'm more than ready to face you, Ennea." Duvalie replied. "Now you understand that I will open a path ahead of us...as Duvalie The Swift!"

Devoted Archer - Ennea

Pokemon Ranger - Decidueye

Rean form a combat link with Juna, Duvalie form a combat link with Crow, Aqua form a combat link with Sora, Levi form a combat link with Laura, Ventus form a combat link with Kazuha, Byleth form a combat link with Emma, Xehanort link with Eraqus and Riku link up with Kairi.

Ennea begin the first attack as she shoot her arrows while her Decidueye join and uses Spirit Shackles. Everyone dodged as Sora Airstep toward Ennea, but the Water-Form Clam teleported in front of Sora, capture him and spit it toward Emma and knock them back.

"Nice try. If you pull that again, the Young Lord's children will spot you out." Ennea warned as the two Sleipnir F2-0 charged toward Rean and Duvalie while the other Water-Form Clam shoot water-shape pearls rapidly.

"Thanks for the heads up!" Sora said as he and Emma got up.

"Then just like Garith." Levi then raised his arm and a pillar of light rained down toward Ennea which she looked up and was forced to jump off.

Ennea landed in the distance. "Fine. Have it your way." Then she shoots her arrow and forms a Pokemon-Link with her Decidueye.

"Thunder!" Xehanort raised his Keyblade and use Thunaga on Ennea who dodged by jumping back as Eraqus lunged at her.

Decidueye got in front and backhand him but he block as Ennea got her arrow out and shoot as Decidueye flew into the air. Eraqus block as Xehanort teleported to Ennea and swing at her, she block with her arms and then throw a punch, only for block and parry as Decidueye use Brave Bird to push Xehanort away.

Sleipnir F2-0 Swing their axes at Rean and Duvalie as they both block and riposte as Crow throws his Double Saber and slashes the two Archaisms while Juna power up and used Brave Smash. The water-form clam launch a headbutt toward Ventus, pushing him back while the other spits out pearls as Levi use Penetrate Hurl to halt them. Ventus recovered and used Windblade Command and zoom toward, swinging his Keyblade swiftly and swirl attack. Emma throw magic projections onto the claim before she notice Ennea attack and duck. Ennea jump into the air and used her craft: Medusa Arrow toward Aqua, Byleth Kazuha and Laura. Each of them dodged while Decidueye used Phantom Force to attack Kazuha.

Kazuha recovered and zoom toward Ducidueye's slash, but it went through him as Ducidueye swung his wing to unleash a small wind attack to push Kazuha back.

"Oh, right. Physical attacks won't affect ghost-types." Kazuna muttered as he imbued his Katana with wind energy.

Kazuha zoom toward it but Decidueye flew into the air and then begin to use Feather Dance to weaken Kazuha's strength. Ennea shoot her arrows onto Ventus and strike him and summon another toward Aqua. Aqua form a barrier to reflect it back at her as she used her Spellweaver command to lung toward the Waterform- Clam and swing her Keyblade with a few combo kicks. The Clam recovered and shoot a stream fo water at Aqua which Sora cast Thunaga to stun it and then Formchange to Mikazuki form and zoom at the slash with phantom slashes. Sora swing his Tachi while Aqua gracefully swing her Keyblade while The Sleipnir block Byleth's attack with its shield and the counterattack with a shield back, but Byleth roll around and then swing the Sword of the Creator on the opening back where Emma fire magic beams. Emma tap the floor to rise magic vines and launched them toward the Sleipnir to attack it, which was laser imbued its axe with fire and slash the vines.

The other Sleipnir F2-0 swing its axe down and then spin slash at Duvalie which she block and swing her sword as Crow fire Homing Shot around it. Laura dash toward and launch powerful swings on it with Levi follow up by slashes. Levi then combo slash with Laura jump up and swing it town to destroy the archiams while the Waterform Clam headbutt toward her. The Clam fire a stream fo water toward Crow, Duvalie and Levi to push them away and then it spit out water pearls into the air to rain down on them. Kazuha zoom to the slash and unleash a helix slash as Ventus drill attack it and blasted wind magic. Ventus then use Ars Arcanum on it and Kazuha finish it off with his craft: Autumn Moon.

Decidieye flew around swiftly and used Feather Dance to affect the group while Ennea used Accel Arrow to boost Decidueye to used Leaf Storm to strike at the group. Aqua spin around with her fining move to repel the Leafs and then create a blizzard to scattered them. Decideye return to Ennea side. Ennea shoot rapid arrows above toward Duvalie and Crow as they dodged. Duvalie zoom toward Ennea who block with attack as Decidueye wasn't affected it as he spin attack with wind attacks to knock Duvalie back as Crow used Nemesis Bullet on them.

"Let's go Escavalier!" Duvalie throw her Pokeball and summon her Escavalier to join the battle and form a Pokemon Link with her.

"Crimson Slash!" Rean used True Crimson Slash as Ennea and Decidieye jump into the air and both throw their arrows onto the group as each one jump back.

The other Waterform Clam begin to launch a spin attack, but Byleth swing Amyr Replica and destroy it as Ennea landed on her feet and shoot her arrow toward Byleth and Emma. Byleth deflect the arrow including the one toward Emma and then swing his whip attack toward Ennea. Ennea dodged, only for Aqua to airstep and unleash Keyblade combo at her as Decidueye tackled her with Brave Bird. Ventus used Wind Rid on both of them before he launch his finishing attack on them. The two of them dodged as Decidueye used Shadow Sneak to attack Ventus as Emma throw magic attack to knock Decidueye back. Decidueye flew into the air and rain down fast-moving arrows as everyone move out of the way as Ennea used Medusa Arrow toward Rean, Levi and Laura.

"Escavalier, X-Scissors!" Duavalie command.

"Escava!" Escavalier toward Ennea who push her back as she block it and Duvalie zoom toward her and slashes her.

"Nngh!" Ennea winched as she see Levi used his craft: Primordial Burst on her, and Laura follow up with a swing.

Ennea summon her arrow to used as a sword to rapid trust Laura who block the attack as Decidueye dive to help her. But Aqua Shotlock him with Prism Rain as the orbs were launch toward him. Decidueye flew around to avoid them and then used them against Aqua to rain down on her and then used Shadow Sneak to teleport to Laura and kick her. Rean lung toward Ennea with Juna as Decidueye used Spirit Shakes to hit their shadow to freeze them and Ennea show her arrow at them. Crow got in front of them and spin his Double Saber into a shield to repel them and then imbued it with power and throw it at them. Ennea and Decidueye jump to avoid the attack, but then Levi pull them with Spiral Pillar and strike them while Duvalie used Storm Brand, freeing Rean and Juna.

Riku lunged at Decidueye and swing at him, but Decidueye block with its wings and kick him as Kairi swoop around him and strike him. Ennea lunged at Kairi and kick her away and fire an arrow. She use Starcrackle to reflect it and hit her back. Juna fire Homing Shots while Rean imbued his Tachi with Crimson fire and slashed Decidueye. Decidueye recovered and then used Phantom Forces while Ennea used Angel Arrow onto Aqua and Ventus. Aqua form a shield to block Decidueye and push him back as Ventus used Wind Raid as Byleth pull out Failnaught Replica and shoot an arrow on Ennea, striking her where Emma summoned mirrors to fire beams of light toward her and Decidueye.

Ennea shoot toward Crow who deflect it as Byleth uses the Sword of the Creator to pull him closer to Ennea and then throw a few slashes at her. Ennea block with her arm and throw a punch back, Byleth caught it, pull her and knee her, grabbed her and throw her toward Excavalier who used Iron Head and knock her away. Ennea recovered as Decidueye used Synthesis to heal himself. Duvalie zoom toward Decidueye with Ice imbued sword and slashed him. Decidueye block with his wings and counterattacks by slashing as Crow fired Homing Shots and him. Decidueye took the damage and then used Phantom Force and strike Crow as Kazuha imbued his Katana with wind energy and soon around it, dealing phantom slashes and then slash Decidueye back.

Decidueye recovered as Emma cast Albion Wolf to debuff him and Ennea while Laura used True Azure Cleaver on them. Aqua spin around summoning a large ice crystal to shoot ice shard toward Ennea and Decideye as they each jump around to avoid the attack, but Ventus took his stand and zoom toward Decidueye and fired Firaga to knock him back and the ice shard strike him while Sora airstep Ennea and Ars Arcanum her, pushing her and the ice Shard strike her too. Byleth used the combat Art Wind Sweep to gather both Ennea and her Pokemon together as Rean use True Helix on them with Juna follow up by punching Ennea. Levi used Primordial burst as Emma rain down magic projections at them.

Sora shotlock Ennea and Decideye with Divine Septium as Duvalie imbued her sword with fire, zoom and slash around Ennea and Decidueye and unleash a fiery tornado slash and Excavalier used Fury Cutter on Decidueye. Decidueye recovered, only for Crow to use Nemesis Bullet 2, Xehanort and Eraqus both lunged and strike through them as Riku and Kairi use Sonic Leap, and Duvalie then finish Ennea and Decidueye both with phantom slashes with her sword glow with a light.

"Ugh..." Ennea fell to her knees as Decidueye did the same.

(BGM ended)

(Resuming Perfect Stage)

"Heehee...you've gotten so strong, Duvalie. Your Excavalier has also grown so strong too. You didn't even let him use the special move we have been practicing either..." Ennea praised. "Seeing you grow so much is a little bittersweet, I admit."

"I think it's time you stopped treating me like a child." Duvalie replied, putting her sword away and the others did the same. "Leave the rest to me. With their help, I will reach our lord."

"Very well. You've earned your right to pass. See this through to the end. You may just be able to make good on your claim." She said before she and Decidueye fainted

Juna panted "We did it… but things are only gonna get tougher from here on."

"She was so powerful and her Decidueye was remarkable too. It didn't feel unfair for all of us to be fighting them at once." Rean said

"No kidding. Feather Dance to weaken out strength and even managed to throw Aqua's attack back at her too." Levi agreed.

"No kidding. I never encounter something like this before." Aqua nodded. "This is a well good experience."

"Indeed. She's one of the mightiest warriors you'll ever meet." Duvalie nodded. "My Lord wouldn't have chosen her otherwise. What's more, the close proximity of our lord only adds to her motivation."

"Anyhow, that's one down. Who's next on the chopping block?" Crow asked

"Most likely that other knight. Ines if I remember." Byleth said.

"Yeah, that's her. We'll meet her soon enough." Levi replied.

"The path is clear- let's go!" Rean declared as they took off to the elevator to make it to the next area.

"So what was that new move she was talking about?" Sora asked.

"Good question. Perhaps I know more once this is over. And Speaking off, perhaps we should come up with something unique, eight Excavalier?" Duvalie asked

"Cava!" Duvalie's Excavalier raised his joisting lance.

"Hey you know, I just thought of something." Ventus said. "Duvalie, your Pokemon partner is a Knight, right? Are all of the Stalritter pokemon are knight characters?"

"No. Not all of them. But I can see why you're confused because of my Excavalier." Duvalie said before they stopped at another barrier. "Another barrier."

"Allow me to take it from here." Riku summon his Keyblade and fired a beam of light to it, opening a path.

They go through the open path to deal with the next monsters and finish them. They continue to walk until they see two roads.

"Take the path on the right. That leads you to the mechanism to a different area." Rise said.

"But after you make a U turn, there's another Elevator that will lead you to your destination, but there's another mechanism you need to do to reach said area." Oracle said.

"So two mechanisms we got to do..." Byleth said. "Got it." He said as they made a U-Turn to make it the elevator and go down to the area on the next area with two paths.

"Take the path on the left." Palutena instructed as they see the mechanism guarded by a monster which they shortly dealt with it and then pressed the mechanism on the next Elevator. "Okay, you're all set to reach your next fight. Be prepared."

"Right. Let's go everyone." Rean nodded as they made a U-Turn to the elevator and use it to return and go to the next path they didn't take and take the elevator there.

They walk up the stairs to reach the next large area where Ines is waiting for them.

"So you've arrived." Ines said.

"Greetings, Ines." Duvalie replied.

"So Ennea and Decidueye weren't able to hold you back. You've shown us on numerous occasions that you are not to be trifled with. And with Duvalie on your side, that more or less evens the playing field." She pulls out her Halberd.

"The sass is strong with this one." Crow said.

"She's set on defending her master till the end." Laura added

"You haven't change, Ines." Duvalie said. "Not since you recklessly challenged our lord when you were a bracer."

Levi blink. "She was a bracer?"

"Sara said that she was with the regiment stationed in the center of the continent." Palutena said.

"That was a long time ago. My bracer emblem likely lies rusted at the bottom of some long-forgotten ditch." Ines said. "With my family's military tradition lost, I sought my ways of putting my martial abilities to good use. Thus, I joined the bracers, but soon found myself constrained by… special provisions. Sometimes, people in positions of authority would go unpunished for their crimes, while the innocent would suffer."

"According to Fie and Sara, they can't deny it. It presents a real dilemma, considering that the safety of civilians should always be the Bracers' top priority."

"I've heard rumors of this from Toval." Rean replied.

"One day, I watched on as my lord executed the ringleader of a criminal group. His influence and authority meant nothing to her. Without hesitation, she punished villainy to keep innocent people safe. I realized that this was the ideal I aspired to. And didn't you too, Duvalie?"

"Yes. Our personal histories differ, but like you, I was won over by our lord's commitment to justice." Duvalie nodded. "Even now that I've left the Stahlritter, I still feel the same loyalty towards her." She pulled out her sword and the others pulled/summed their weapons. "Which is why I have to ask her in person why she is doing all this. I'll defeat anyone in my way- even our lord, if that is how it must be!"

"Well said Duvalie." Byleth smiled "Just as she said, but we won't stop here."

(BGM pauses)

(Resuming Mighty Urge)

"Yes! Well said!" Ines smirked as she pull out her Pokeball. "Come on Sciztor!"

Scizor came out of Ine's Pokebakk. "Scizor!" He said and formed a Pokemon Combat link as two Sleipnir F2 appeared along with two Waterform Crabs.

"I am Ines the Stout. My lord granted me that title, and I will repay her by living up to it! I am the wall you cannot overcome! The fortress you will crush upon! Now! To battle!"

Armor Will Knight - Ines

Bug of steel - Scizor

Rean form a combat link with Juna, Duvalie form a combat link with Crow, Aqua form a combat link with Sora, Levi form a combat link with Laura, Ventus form a combat link with Kazuha, Byleth form a combat link with Emma, Xehanort link with Eraqus and Riku link up with Kairi.

Duvalie Pokemon link with Excavalier.

Ines Pokemon link with Scizor

Ines swing down her Halbard to cause an earth cleaver while Scizor used Ability to jumps around Rean's team at a fast speed, making it look like there are two or three copies of himself as the Waterform Crabs spit out bubbles toward the group as the Sleipnir F2 rush toward Aqua and Ventus. The group dodged the attacks as Aqua summon several ice crystals and launch them toward Ines and her team as the Sleipnir F2 block with their shields, the crabs moved out of the way and Ines and Scizors jumped back.

Eraqus fied beams of light at the Crabs who swiftly dodged while the other lung to claw attack him, but Xehanort got in front and use his Ice magic to freeze it and then grumble it. Only for it to emerge itself and backhand him.

"Hmph. I see that Enforcer's minions are difficult." Xehanort mused as he launch rapid jabs and slash as it shield itself with its claws.

Ventus used Tornado Strike on the two Sleipnir F2. Rean lung toward One Waterform Crab and slashes it a few times where the crab block with its claws and then swipe attack where Juna's Protective Wall combat link kick in to block the attack and then throw her punches. Riku cast Dark Firaga on it while Kairi Shotlock with Heart of a Princess onto Ines and Scizor. As Kairi landed, Scizor lunged at her and used Metal Claw her away as Ines follow up with a swing.

Levi and Laura charge toward the other watery crab as Ines lung toward Duvalie and she in return, swing at each other as Scizor used Metal Claw and Excavalier used Iron Defence to Protect Duvalie and himself and also raising defense stats. Emma's glow with magic and then she summon magic circles to fire magic projections toward Ines and her team while Byleth rush toward one of the Sleipnir F2 and slashes it as it respond in kind. Byleth block and then punch it but the Sleipnir F2 block with its shield but was push back as Byleth shake his hand a bit.

The Sleipnir F2 slam its axe toward Ventus as he dodge and counterattacked while Aqua air step and unleash a keyblade combo attack while cartwheel combo attack and fire triple Blizzaga at him while Ventus use Sonic Leap with Kazuha follow up by slashing and phantom slashes with Sora casting Thundaga. The Sleipnir F2 spin slash and the before to launch itself for a shield bash against Aqua who formed a barrier around herself to push the archaism off as Ventus used Ars Arcanum. Sleipnir F2 imbued its axe with lightning and swing it to the ground to create lightning surge toward them as Aqua used Spellweaver to cartwheel assault it before finishing with the finishing move and Ventus slash through it to explode.

The Waterform Crab launch a spin attack to push Rean and Juna back, jump into the create to create water splash attack onto them and then it grabbed Juna and throw her toward Rean for him to catch her and gentle help her back on her feet as the crab charge a large water sphere and shoot it at them. Rean took a stance and then cut the water into two and cause a watery explosion. Juna then fire Homing Shots at the crab who split bubbles to intercept. The crab then slam its claws to create water surge toward them as Juna used Brave Smash 2 to charge through it and strike the crab with Rean following up with combo slashes and then use True helix with a critical attack. Juna follow up and throw two punches to push it back then use combat art: Lightning Fist to shock the crab and Rean slash through it destroying it.

The other Sleipnir F2 slam town the axe as Byleth dodged it and then he imbued the Sword of the Creator with fire magic and launch combo swings with two horizontal slash and one vertical slash as Emma used Eclipsed Edge 2 throw. Sleipnir F2 jump back and then dash toward Byleth and slashed him to push Byleth back. Byleth then throw whip attack at it as the Sleipnir F2 block with its shield and prepared a shield bash toward Byleth who switch to Amyr Replica and swing it knock it over it. Byleth then jump up and swing down to destroy it completely.

The other Water Crab was slashed by Xehanort as Eraqus swing his Keyblade which the crab blocked and then shot a stream of water at him to push him back. Levi swirl his Glaive to attack the waterform crab and then combo slash him and horizontal spin combo swirl left-right, jabs swirl combo slash. The water crab shoot stream of water at Levi who dodge by leaping into the air and then plunge the ground as Emma used magic to summon vines to capture the crab and form flowers around it and cause it to explode. Levi imbued his Glaive with power and swing upward left and downward right and then one large slash down to destroy it.

Crow throw his Double saber at Scizor who block it and then use Double Team to create clones of himself, causing Crow to let out a tch as Ines slam her Halbard and then swirl her Halbard to a strong wide slash, pushing Duvalie and Excavalier back. Ines used Shield of the Order to buff herself and then she used her craft: Heavy Divider toward Duvalie, Crow and Excavalier while Scizor used Bullet punch on Crow, knocking him back.

Before Ines can react, Levi use Penetrate Hurl toward her while Laura uses True Lion Rush on Scizor to push him back slightly. Ines launch toward Levi as they both jab and swing at each other, blocking each others attack until Levi launch a powerful spin slash to pushes Ines away as Scizor use S-Scissors on Laura who block it and counter with True Radiant Spin to push Scizor back.

Ventus use Sonic Leap onto Ines and Scizor while Kazuha follow up with his craft: Gales of Leaves as he created three afterimages of himself and then zoom toward Ines and Scizor, unleashing a flurry of slashes that formed into a tornado before Kazuha spun slash the tornado to burst. Ines recovered with Sciztor who used Iron Defense. Emma cast Albion Wolf and debuff them as Duvalie used Flame Brand on Sciztor which is super effective while Excalivaer used Giga Impact to push Ines back. Ines recovered, only for Xehanort to summon boulders to throw at her. Ines form a shield with her Halberd as Scizor recovered next to Ines.

"Scizor, can you fight?" Ines asked

"Scizor." Ines Scizor responded with a nodded.

"Understood. Used Sword Dance and use Quick Attack." Ines said as Scizor respond as it did ordered with Sword Dance and then quickly attacked Aqua and knock her back.

"Aqua!" Sora exclaimed before he swing his Keyblade at Scizor but he grabbed the Keyblade. "Huh!?"

"Ha!" Ines zoom toward Sora and slashed him, pushing him back.

Sora recovered and then use Curaga, Eraqus then lung toward Ines as they swing at each other until Eraqus use pearls to push Ines away, following up with Xehanort teleporting and slash around her and fire a beam of darkness, pushing her away.

Scizor used Quick Attack on Xehanort. Levi use Spiral Pillar to gather them, leap into the air and plunge the ground as Laura follow up with True Azure Cleaver. Juna run toward Ines to punch her but she blocks with her Halberd as she swings at her, ducks the attack and uppercut, and kicks her chest. Ines recovered as she flip as Aqua airstep toward Ines and combo slashed her while Sora cast Firaga on Scizor who avoided the attack.

Scizor use Slash on Sora who blocked and counterattacked and then use Ragnorok as Levi used Primordial Burst as Laura imbued her Greatsword with power to launch powerful swings onto Scizor and knocked him back toward Juna who then used Flamewhorl Kick as Rean then use Waning Crescent Slash. Kairi swing fiercely at her as Riku follow up by combo slashing her.

Aqua raise her Kyeblade to summon several ice crystals to launch Ines where she smashes them with her Halbard as Sora use Strike Raid while Ventus use Sonic Leap. Kazuha rush toward Ines and they swing at each other but Kazuha launches combo slashes through her armor and then push her back with one swing. Excavalier used Iron Head on Ines and Duvalie finished it off with Mighty Swing combat link, knocking Ines back.

"Oof!" Ines grunted as she panted and feel on her knee as Scizor was knocked back by Crow, rolling near her.

"Sciz..." Ines Scizor slowly got up as he it panted.

(BGM ended)

(Resuming Perfect Stage)

"Gh...I'm truly impressed you were able to make it this far. Even with Scizor's mighty armor... it stood no chance against sigh fine steel..." Ines said. "Duvalie, your blade, and Excavalier hasn't lost its edge even after leaving us. If anything, it has only become sharper."

Duvalie put her sword and shield away as the others did the same. "That's because the entire time I was away, I never lost sight of our lord's teachings, or forgot the experiences I had alongside you, Ennea and the young lord. When this is all over, would you spar with me once more?"

Ines blinked. "Heh, gladly. Go forth, and good luck… Class VII." She said before she and her Sciztor passed out from exhaustion.

"She's really is high-principled, isn't she?" Juna asked. "It's pretty crazy that she started out as a bracer but then joined the society, though."

"It cannot be help for even a vicious guild to fall into the gray area without sacrifices for the pursuit of justice." Palutena sighed.

"Justice is an idiosyncratic pursuit." Duvalie said "Our ideas may differ, and mine may even be at odds with my lord's But this is what I've come here to confirm."

"That's what we all want- the truth." Rean nodded.

"That's something Phoenix Wright would do." Levi said

"You guys done?" Crow asked. "The path's wide open. Let's mosey!"

"Excavalier, return." Duvalie said as she returned her Pokemon to her Pokeball and then walked up the stairs that led them to the elevator.

"How many sections do we got to go through to reach the Steel Maiden and Aether from here?" Levi wondered.

"There's a barrier in point of view. The mechanism is on the left." Futaba said as they follow her instructions to see a crescent Knight patrolling the area.

They slip passed it to break the mechanism to deactivate the barrier. Made a U-turn to pass the monster and then walked a few paths until found the stairs to lead them to the teleporter to the Alter.

"We're here at last..." Levi said.

"Yeah... Aether and the Steel Maiden will be waiting for us..." Kazuha nodded as they walk up the stairs. "Paimon too..."

"Yeah... is everyone ready?" Rean asked as they nodded. "Then let's go." He said as they walk the final staircase that lead to the alter area where they encounter Arianrhod, facing Argreion, and Aether and Paimon waiting for them.

"My Lord!" Duvalie called as they approached.

"Aether..." Rean said, looking at him, solemnly.

(BGM ended)

"Everyone..." Paimon said, frowning

"You guys made it after all..." Aether said solemnly

"I've been expecting you, Duvalie, Class VII. And to you, Master Xehanort and Master Eraqus." Lianne replied as she turn around.

(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Aria of the Saint (Spirit Shrine))

"She's wearing her helmet." Rean said.

Levi sweatdrop, looking at him with a frown "Yeah we can see that…"

"No I mean... why is she wearing her helmet?"

"Ah..."

"My lord, why are you covering your face?" Duvalie asked before she notice something. "Wait a minute... Where's the young Lord? I thought he would be with you for the Rivalery."

"The one who stands before you now is not Lianne Sandlot." Lianne answered. "Instead, it is the Seventh Anguis of Ouroboros. The faceless Awakener of the Argent Knight. I welcome you as a fellow challenger in the Rivalry. As for Noel, he has other plans that he won't be able to participate in the Rivalry, even if he wanted to."

"As expected. I should have figured that you speak as if we were strangers, Lianne." Xehanort said.

"My lord..." Duvalie muttered.

"I see..." Levi sighed. "Before we start, there are subjects we like to discuss with you... and him." Levi turn to Aether before turning to Rean who nodded.

"We learned about both of your pasts at the Luna Shrine." Rean added. " For you Lianne Sandlot, you died 250 years ago in the War of the Lions, but rose as an Immortal. And you Aether, the legendary Golden Wander who helped create Erebonia and chose its emperor. For the Lance Maiden, You found out about the curse that plagued Emperor Dreichels and waited two centuries for his reincarnation with the Golden Wanderer. You've experienced so many things with him throughout your life. You know what true evil looks like. And you, Aether, you encounter and meet that very evil who created the curse numerous times, along with Black Alberich. You been watching all over the Empire for over 1200 years, preventing all the disaster and bloodshed the curse has caused with the best of your abilities. Just as I said earlier, you and Lianne waited two centuries for Dreichels reincarnation. So I must ask of you both. For Liannne... why did you join Ouroboros 20 years ago? Why are you helping them destroy the world?! And..." Rean turn to Aether. "And why are you here, siding with her when we know you encounter that very evil that plagued Erebonia since its birth."

"..." Aether closes his eyes as he isn't going to respond.

"The truth is simpler than you may think." Arianrhod answered. "To put it frankly, it's all because of my pride, my regret, and something in my heart I could not throw away. The same applies to him."

(BGM ended)

"I don't understand." Duvalie said.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Black Truth)

"As you just said, Aether has traveled all over the Empire and the entire continent since the beginning. During those years, he's been trying to prevent much bloodshed from being spilled by that very curse. After the years of the War of the Lion had ended, he knew what would become of me the moment I died at the hands of the Vermillion Apolocypse. He has waited for me to awaken and explained to me everything that I must know. In the later years of Dreichels, he told us of the darkness which had been eating away at him. It started tormenting him after the War of the Lions, causing him decades of anguish. He feared it would never leave him, that it would haunt his soul for all eternity. Aether knew of this very darkness, but he wasn't aware that very darkness haunts him. We searched for his reincarnation to ensure his fears would not come to pass. And eventually we found him. He was already a well-respected man with a high position in the military. He had a wife and child. We observed him for some time, and was relieved to see no trace of that sinister darkness. At about this time, I received an invitation from Ouroboros's leader."

"So that is where you split up with Aether?" Levi asked

Arianrhod nodded. "Though I had no intention of joining the society, I went to hear them out. It was there, that I was told of an imminent catastrophe that would befall the world the moment the Golden Wanderer left his eyes to Dreichel's reincarnation. It seemed no sooner had I breathed a sigh of relief, reassured that my fears were unfounded when that vile darkness emerged anew. We attempted to intervene, but by the time we arrived, it was far too late. That's when I made my decision. I would join Ouroboros as an Anguis and aid them with the Phantasmal Blaze Plan."

"And after that, you found and recruited three girls, and formed a group called the Stahlritter?"

"Yes. She did." Duvalie replied.

"Indeed. I would take part in the Rivalries and defeat the other five candidates, absorbing their power. All so that I might destroy the root of all evil, Ishmelga." Arianrhod answered

"My lord..." Duvalie trailed off.

"So that's why..." Byleth whispered.

"..." Eraqus close his eyes.

"What an incredible resolve... The kind of determination that must've taken..." Aqua muttered

"She truly is worthy of the legends..." Emma muttered

"Fool! Why did you both not tell me?!" Roselia suddenly appeared.

"Grandmother..."

"I thought you were going to wait for us to come back..." Celine said

"Rrgh! How could I just sit and watch from afar? Lianne, Aether, why?" Roselia yelled "Why did you both not confide in me? You two and Dreichels! If he was suffering under a curse, he should have come to me!"

"He said to me that it was something we humans had brought upon ourselves." Lianne replied. " He and Aether also said that were we to continue to foist our problems onto you, we would only be repeating the mistakes humanity made with the Sept-Terrion. That, and he claimed it would not be very becoming for an old, stubborn man like him to go begging for help."

"...!"

"As for me, this all came about because of my own stubbornness. How could I possibly take such a selfish burden and place its weight on the shoulders of my dear friend?"

"But… you share that burden with Aether!"

"No she didn't…" Aether interupted. "When Lianne learned about Ishmelga from Dreichels, she wanted to save him from that horrible entity who's been haunting him from his old life to his new. I share her thoughts." Aether places his hand over his chest and looks down. "After that, I told Lianne about my secret and shared my knowledge with her. We both agree that we will destroy Ishmelga together... So Dreichel will no longer be haunted by him anymore… and set Erebonia free at long last. That's why we couldn't place that burden with you, Rose. We both don't want you to get involved in repeating the same mistake humanity has made. That's why we both travel around the world to search for Dreichel's reincarnation… to keep him safe from Ishmelga. When Lianne received an invitation from Ouroboros, I stayed watching Dreichels and his new life. However…" Aether clenched his fist. "Ishmelga play a dirty trick on me… He manipulated a robber who was near Osborne's home, forcing me to take my attention off him. By the time... I heard Osborne's home was attacked, and the dark aura the robber had… I realized this was Ishmelga's doing to get me away from Osborne's home. By the time I arrive… Lianne was there… and I was too late. That is when Lianne and I created a promise."

"A Promise...?" Roselia asked in disbelief.

---

Flashback...

The scene show Lianne and Aether camping in the woods.

"Lianne... are you worried about what Dreschel said?" Aether asked.

"Yes... Now I understand the horrors that were within Erebonia's history... the thought of it shivered me." Lianne slowly nodded, looking at the fire. "I never thought such a malevolent entity existed that would plague Erebonia into everlasting darkness and ruin. I don't want to see my home turn into war and malice. And what's worse, that evil personified is haunting Dreschels. The thought of it becoming its Awakener shivered my thoughts."

"Yeah… I agree… Dreschel is an honorable man… And Erebonia was supposed to be a good place. Even though it takes time to build… It will never come… all thanks to Ishmelga. So long as he exists… Erebonia will forever be stained with blood and his curse. I made so many good memories here, but Ishmelga keeps ruining all the places I once loved, including ruining and taking people's lives for his own diabolical plan. No matter how far I've searched, Ishmelga will always elude me... including the Gnomes..."

"You mentioned before. They were your friends, correct?"

Aether nodded. "Yes... all of that chance when Ishmelga killed Geras... the true chief of the Gnomes and replaced it with that astral parasite persona of Ishmelga... Black Alberich. So long as Alberich is in control, the Gnomes will forever be serving that abomination. How much more damage will Ishmelga cause... Because of him..." Aether clenched his fist and teeth. "Because of him..."

Lianne got up and hugged Aether.

"Ah..."

"Please stop, Aether. I understand how you feel..." Lianne said with a warm smile. "You already tried countless times to foil his plans and you even managed to succeed to lower the casualty. I'm happy that you have watched over Erebonia since ancient times. But there's no reason for you to face him alone. Let me help you."

"But… you…."

"I'm already dead. But I'm only alive for now because of the Rivalries. Let us use that to our advantage. Aether, you already fought Ishmelga and the Gnomes too many times throughout the ages. But you can't face them just by yourself. You'll need friends like me, and Rose. Let us help you. Let's come up with a plan to destroy Ishmelga together… not for just Erebonia's sake, but for the world and its future… together."

"Lianne…" Aether sighed and hugged her back. "You're right. Thank you. I feel more better now. Then let's come up with a plan together. I have an idea how it might work. But we can't get Rose involved in this. With her help, people will only keep repeating the same mistake. And since this is humanity's fault that Ishmelga was created, we must purge him with our own hands."

"You're right… I don't want to place that kind of burden on our dear friend." Aether then made a pinky promise. "Lianne, let's make a promise. That if the Rivalry of the Seven is upon us, We will fight side by side until we rid Ishmelga for good."

Lianne nodded with a smile and did her pinkie promise with Aether. "I promise."

---

End of flashback...

"When Lianne join Ouroboros as its Anguis and help them with the Phantasmal Blaze plan… I will lend her my strength for the Rivalry… all for the purpose of killing Ishmelga and Albeirch for good." Aether said with a serious determination. "For far too long Ishmelga has plagued Erebona with that diabolic curse. It's because of him... all the dreams and lives of the people I know, including innocents were robbed." He places his left hand on his right arm. "Reise... who want to help make Erebonia a place of strength and peace... where noble and commoners were treat each other with respect through love and trust. The Gnomes... who wanted to use their technology for the sake of good. All of that chance when Ishmelga corrupted people with its curse. and created events to destroy that peace. No matter how many I tried to protect and help Reise's dream live on... Ishmelga will always ruin that. I have witnessed countless blood spilled throughout the centuries. Men... women... children... elderly... fathers...mothers... sons and daughters... All of the people who I once loved... Even losing my dear friend, Argres... the Holy Beast of Earth. Ishmelga took so many lives and even the dreams of the people who hope to make Erebonia a peaceful nation... built by trust and diplomats. And even change the nobility where there they can go back during the golden age where nobles and commoners were treated as equals." Aether's voice then sounds heartbreaking as he looks at his hands and a small shed of tears comes out. "The first Roselia who realized the Ebon Knight plans to brainwash the witches and its plan to become the Great One. Geras... who was stolen and replaced by Black Alberich... tainted the minds of so many good Gnomes... and used their technology for evil. Just like with Originator Zero and the Magic Knights."

"Ah..." Rean gasped and looking sad.

"Because of Ishmelga... all of my friends' dreams, innocent people's lives, and their dreams were stolen and ruined... Dreichels... who has returned to this world as Giliath Osborne... who wanted to live his new happy life with his wife and son... will never come true..." Aether clenched his teeth as his right hand gripped with rage and sadness in his eyes. "Reise's dream is forever tarnished. Ishmelga will always target and destroy the good noble and just people... and replace them with the evil he corrupted, destroying many lives, no matter if they're innocent or not. No matter what. Power, Mira... He will do whatever it takes, even crossing the lines just so he can become the Great One in the shadows. Erebonia will forever be tainted by blood, and every nation will forever know that Erebonia will be the evilest nation in the world... all because of people who were corrupted by Ishmelga's curse through the path of destruction. Including creating the Sword of the End in a sinful manner. So long as Ishmelga exists... all the noble dreams will never come true... That is when I had enough. I suffer far too long to let Ishmelga and Alberich get away with their demonic plan. There is only one way to reach them and end this for good." Aether wipes his tears and then looks with a powerful determination. "If I must participate in the Rivalries either as one of the Divine Knights Awakener or find someone else who will take my place... then so be it."

Everyone was silent over Aether resolve and determination.

"Aether..." Paimon sadden

"That's one incredible resolve..." Aqua muttered

"I thought the Steel Maiden resolve was powerful... but this one takes the cake..." Crow muttered as well.

Roselia clench her teeth and fist. "The three of you... are such hopeless fulls. "No...I am the foolish one, for not realizing what you struggled with."

"Roselia..." Juna trailed off

(BGM ended)

Levi was lost in thought as he close his eyes before he open them.

"Now isn't the time for either of you to regret." Levi said, causing their attention.

(Persona 3 ost - Living with Determination or Persona 4 ost - I'll Face Myself or Trails into Reverie ost - Raindrop with the Wind or Super Mario Galaxy ost - Lumas)

"We all go through moments like this. Of where we regret something from the past, it's what we all do, no matter the form. But isn't that all the more reason why we always have a chance to make amends, right?"

"..." Roselia blinked.

"Make amends, hm..." Xehanort close his eyes.

"Aether. You wanted to destroy Ishmelga right? We get it and we agree with you. After what you have been through, it's no wonder that you suffer so much. But do you regret bringing Lianne into this? Making her your chosen warrior to take on Ishmelga? Training her to strengthen her willpower to face Ishmelga to destroy him?" Levi turn to Arianrhod. "As for you Lianne, what about you? Do you regret taking Duvalie, Ines, and Ennea under your wings and making them your knights? And even adopting Noel as your son and possibly making him your heir to the Stalritter? Was bringing them all up to know about chivalry, honor, and devotion to the way of the Stahlritter, just a waste of time? I understand both of your actions. And I believe Duvalie also noticed this too. You both were motivated by loyalty to the one you love- no… you both sacrifice yourself to protect the future of the entire Empire. For you, Lianne, you never wanted to bring the Great Twilight… you went along for the sake of your true goal with Aether. Win all the Rivalries and destroy Ishmelga. As for you Aether, you wanted to destroy Ishmelga because you believe in Reise Arnor's dream. That his dream will live on through you... no... through the people that will carry out his will... both in the past, and in the future."

"Levi..." Rean said in surprise but smiled.

"He's right, my lord." Duvalie said. "In the eight years I've fought by your side, I've witnessed your sense of justice and boundless compassion. You value kindness and loving one's life with honor more than anything else. Aside from the Golden Wanderer, there's no way someone as virtuous as you would ever want to end the world. Regret? Pride? I'm sure those feelings were part of your decision. But your compassion far outweighs those. And knowing you as I do, 'compassion' may not be a strong enough word. If I may speak plainly...you have made a serious mistake with the Golden Wanderer. The Great Twilight involves all of us. You both were wrong to think you needed to bear that burden alone. You have me, Ines, Ennea, and the young lord! Even if he's an Enforcer. He will always be loyal to you, not because you're the mother he longs for... but because of how much love and faith he has for you. And not just us. Everyone here- Levi, Schwarzer, Class VII, all of Thors are working together towards the same goal."

"They're right Aether. You're just as bad as Lianne and Rose. You wanted to take care of it yourself. But even a god-like yourself must rely on others. Why else did you place so much faith in Lianne? Shouldn't you have done the same to the others both in the past and now?" Paimon asked.

Aether blinked before he burst into laughter.

"Hey, what are you laughing at?!"

"Sorry... I'm sorry. I just wasn't expecting to be scolded like this. It's been a while since I was scolded like this by my friends." Aether said with a smile.

"Hehe...It seems you and I are in the same boat." Arianrhod said as she take off her helmet. "It's been eight years since I took you in, I knew a day like this might come eventually. But I never thought I would see those eyes of yours so filled with resolve."

"My lord..." Duvalie placed her hand over her chest.

"And Levi, it has been many years since I was questioned on whether I regret training my knights and even taking Noel as my adopted son. I assure you, that every moment I trained them and raised Noel...I never once regretted it. They were the moments that gave me the hope that one day, I... no... that we could finally end Dreichel's eternal suffering."

"Yeah. I never regret training Lianne as my chosen warrior to face Ishmelga in my place for the Rivalry." Aether nodded as he place his hand over his chest with a smile. "The years we spend together training, both mental and willpower. It's something I always cherished. Even if she has a time limit... I will always treasure all those moments we have together... both as my partner... and one of the best friends and people I ever know."

"Heh. Now you're making me blush." Arianrhod chuckled.

"Heh. I thought so." Levi let out a small chuckled. "However, despite that. I know that the two of you suffered and carried that burden alone. It's time that we end those suffering and help carry your burden. And do you know why? Because we are the Radiant Wings." He place his hand over his chest and look with determination with a smile. "We are the light that will outshine the darkness. A light that will bring salvation and freedom for the sake of those who suffer for far too long. We will end both of your suffering. We will end Dreichel's suffering in your place. We will end the suffering Ishmelga has cause for far too long. Because that is what we are, the Radiant Wings of the world!"

"Levi…" Rean smiled.

"Levi..." Duvalie smiled

"Yeah. That's exactly right!" Sora smiled.

Aether and Arianrhod look surprised before they both chuckled.

"Wow... You almost reminded me of Prince Olivert, Dreichels and Reise just now. Looks like Zhongli raised you well." Aether smiled before he look serious with Arianrhod. "But let me ask you something... Do you have the strength to match that resolve?"

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Belief -Sen Ver- or Kirby and the Rainbow Curse ost - The Final Boss (Vs. Dark Crafter))

Aether summon a golden sword unlike his regular one while Arianrhod summoned her lance and both unleash their battle aura that shake the entire shrine.

"Wah!" Paimon swirling back.

"Lianne! Aether!" Roselia summon her Staff and created a barrier until the barrier slowly crack until a white flash and suddenly the barrier faded as Arianrihod and Aether's barrier still skyrocketed but aside from that, everyone can feel it.

"We appreciate your candor, but we shall speak plainly as well." Arianrhod said. "You have no idea the true horror you face. The twisted darkness of the Ebon Knights and its thousand-year curse. The snake that devours the world has begin to stir, and the Great Twilight nears its zenith. There is no time- the situation is dire."

"Right. You may have overcome many odds throughout your entire journey, but can you handle the pressure of the Rivalries, bear the weight of the entire world on your shoulder, to prepare to face the greatest darkness carved by humanity?" Aether asked. "Because if you can't handle the unfathomable power to shake the world to its core, then you will fall into depths of madness where not even your light will keep you safe."

"They're both resonating with the shrine." Roselia said.

"That can't be good..." Crow grumbled.

"All of you don't give up!" Eraqus yelled as his white battle aura surfaced. "Both the Maiden and the Wanderer show us their resolves. The willpower that kept Lianne going for centuries, and Aether, the deity in a mortal vessel who supported her throughout her entire journey. We have to show them we can match that resolve! If we don't fight like our lives depend on it, we'll never make it to the end of the Rivalries."

"Eraqus is right." Xehanort said as he unleashed his dark aura. You all face me at the Keyblade Graveyard. And even defeated me with the power of Kingdom Hearts. If you can defeat me with Kingdom Heart's power, then you can defeat both the Steel Maiden and the Golden Wanderer's power and proven your determination!"

"Yeah, that's exactly right!" Rean agreed as the ultimate sacrifice. "We'll show them that we'll be the ones who will reach the Ebon Knight! We need to put everything on the line here!"

"Yes…they're exactly right." Duvalie powered up. "My lord, not only did you show me boundless compassion, but you also taught me that power without justice is meaningless. Words will do us no more good, so I will use my sword to prove it to you! I'll show you that you were mistaken to walk that solitary path. And that I am truly worthy of walking beside you!"

"Heh. Not bad Duvalie. I got your back!" Crow nodded

"We'll show you what we got!" Juna agreed

"Yeah! So get ready miss Arianrhod, Aether!" Sora declared

Aether chuckled. "Got it."

"Then ready your blade, Duvalie the Swift." Arianrhod turn to Roselia. "Rose!"

"Gh...fine!" Roselia sighed. "I shall oversee this battle! May each of you put all your strength into it! But be warned! Aether and Lianne fought side by side for 250 years. They will prove to be one of the most channeling forces you'll ever face!"

"Right!" Rean's Team yelled.

"Good luck you guys! I'll be rooting for you both!" Paimon yelled.

Saints of Legends

Holy Saint - Lianne Saintlot

Golden Wanderer - Aether

Rean form a combat link with Juna, Duvalie form a combat link with Crow, Aqua form a combat link with Sora, Levi form a combat link with Laura, Ventus form a combat link with Kazuha, Byleth form a combat link with Emma, Xehanort link with Eraqus and Riku link up with Kairi.

On the opposite end Aether form a combat link with Arianrhod.

"Shatter! Warhammer!" Juna activated her Brave Order to buff everyone break boost as Sora airstep toward Arianrod and Ars Arcanum her but Aether block his attack and punch Sora back as Arianrhod zoom toward him and unleash a flurry of trust to knock him back.

Aqua lung toward Aether as they swing at each other as everyone split up. Ventus used Wind Raid toward Arianrhod who backhanded it as Rean lung toward Arianrhod, swinging their blade and lance at each other as Juna begin firing toward Arianrhod with bullets, making Rean jump back as Arianrhod deflected each one. Aether pushes Aqua back with a powerful slash.

Aether aim his hand. "Salvation for all-" Suddenly Juna's Brave Order was canceled and replaced by another power that buff Aether and Arianrhod. "Golden Light!"

"What the-!? My brave order!"

"A Dis order?!" Levi exclaimed when Aether suddenly imbued his Sword, and extended it range into light.

"Wrong." Aether dashes through Levi, Ventus, Laura, Byleth, Kazuha and Emma around the ground in a star movement pattern, performing a series of fast but powerful slashes, creating a star symbol that light up, where he reappears and performs large light slash projection onto said symbol and light skyrocket, striking Levi, Ventus, Byleth, Kazuha and Emma. "Now!" Aether quietly alerted for Arianrhod to follow up an attack by launching lightning-fast jabs onto Emma.

"Ready yourselves!" Arianrod used her craft: Sturm Lanzer to dash through Levi, Ventus, Laura, Byleth and Emma with critical hits. "An opening!" She alerted for Aether to follow up with powerful slashes onto Byleth.

Xehanort summon boulders to Arianrohod but she slash them to pieces as Eraqua lunged at her, only for Aether to interfere by getting in front of her and slash him away. Aether swing his arm to summon tornados to push everyone away, but Xehanort teleported to him and slash him. Arianrhod lunged at him and they both swing at each other.

"We haven't face against since your defeat and at the workshop... I never once thought you and Eraqus come back to haunt me." Arianrhod admit as she grumbled.

"Haunt you? Hehe, as if haunting you would be enough to lay you down." Xehanort smirked

"Then tell me." Arianrhod push him away and launch lightning jabs at him as Xehanort block them all. "Why have you come back from the dead? Do you really wish to get your revenge on me for defeating you?"

"If that were the case." Xehanort deflect Arianrhod's attack. "I would have gotten my revenge on everyone! But that is not why I am here!" He then launch a trust attack to push her away.

"Whatever your reason, Xehanort, I have defeated you before and I will do so again." She glared and raised her lance to released her aura into a tornado and lunged at Xehanort, only for Riku to lunged at her and slash her away.

Riku and Kairi rushed to Arianrhod while Aether and Rean swing their swords at each other.

"I never thought that we would face each other like this Aether... to meet another legend since Erebonia's creation." Rean said as he slash him away, but Aether hold his ground.

"Nor did I. Our first meeting was back in the Beanbean Kingdom. It was never meant to be preordained and yet here we are. I can see the result in your eyes." Aether then power up with a golden aura. "That same look... just like him. The moment you became Valimar's Awakener, I knew what fate has in store for you." Then he lunged in superhuman speed and clash blades with Rean. "I'm sorry for keeping everything from you until now. But I must keep my promise, no matter what. But if you have what it takes to free your father, then show me more of your result, Rean! As a friend to your father and a friend, to Valimar, to all of Erebonia!"

"I will!" Rean slashed Aether away.

Aether recovered and then unleashed lightning-fast slash projection as Rean deflected each one. Aether turn his head and saw Levi's Glaive aim at him as he bend his back to ddoged and Levi lunged to grab and slash him away. Aether impale the ground with his sword and then extended his sword's range and then lung at Levi as they swing at each other. Levi swirl slash Aether and then rapid jab him, but Aether repel each strike until slide kick him, but Levi jump but Aether shoot a magical beam to push him away. Levi backflip as Aether rush to him and they swing at each other.

"Zhongli and the others told me everything. And who I really am." Levi said solemnly.

"I see... I was expecting you will found eventually. Please don't blame them for hiding who you are, Levi. And forgive me for needing your power." Aether said

"It's all right. I can understand your reasons for saving this world. The world we love and cherish. I will show you my resolve to end Ishmelga by my own hands."

"Then show me what you're capable of, child of light." Aether smiled and then he kicked Levi away and then summon several magic sword and aim at him as Levi form a shield with his Glaive to repel the magic swords.

Laura dashed toward Arianrhod and they both swung their weapons at each other Laura slammed her Greatsword down for Arianrhod to block while Byleth cast Ragnorok onto Aether who backflipped high enough to create an arrow of light and fire multiple arrows to rain down on them with large powerful explosions of light. As Aether landed, Levi lung toward him and they swung at each other as he swirl his Glaive to lash out some trust, slashes, swirls and block on Aether who repelled each of his attacks until Aether perform a cartwheel slash projection to push Levi back.

Kairi raised her Keyblade to summon pillars of light to rain down on Arianrhod and then she used Seven Wishes. Arianrhod spin attack to knock her away as Riku airstep and Shadowbreaker her. Riku swing his Keyblade as Arianrhod counter with her lance until she push him away. Eraqus summon balls of light and launch them at her, but Arianrhod slash with one swing to destroy them.

"Seeing how strong your resolve it... You truly haven't change, old friend." Eraqus said.

"You have no idea how much I've miss you and Xehanort back in those golden days, Eraqus. I was shocked to learn of your demise from his hand. I was disappointed in him, and now you're here, helping him." Arianrhod said.

"While I am curious to know how you learn. But make no mistake, you'll find out once we defeat you." Eraqus said as he lung at her and they swing at each other until Eraqus summon light to knock her into the sky and Xehanort kick her back to the ground.

Aether zoom and slash Zehanort and Eraqus away and then launch rapid slashes on both of them from a distance, knocking them furhter. Kazuha dash toward Aether as they swing their swords at each other as Ventus used Windblade style to lung toward Aether and unleash a flurry of slashes to push back him. Aether hold his ground as Emma tap her orbal staff to the ground to shoot ray of light underneath Aether who roll out of the way until he join with Arianrhod who just finish pushing back Aqua.

Aqua recovered and summoned several ice crystals and launch them toward Arianrhod but Aether summon large boulders and launch them toward the ice to intercept, crushing the ice and aim toward Aqua who form a barrier to repel the boulders while Sroa use Sonic Leap onto both Arianrhod and Aether. Arianrhod unleash a flurry of jabs at Sora but he swirl his Septium Divine into a shield to block the attack as Duvalie created clones of herself to dash toward Aether and Arianrhod and unleash a slash projection at them, while Crow follow up by lung toward Arianrhod and Aether to slash them, imbued his Double Saber with red energy and throw it at them. Aether and Arianrhod block the Double Saber's attack each time into a boomerang but Rean use True Crimson Slash on them and allow the Double Saber to strike them

Juna used Brave Smash 2 and then she fire two energy shots at them. Aether and Arianrhod hold their ground as Aether punch the ground to use his craft: Terra Smash to summon crystals and shake the gound into a shockwave while Arianrhod dashes toward Rean, Laura and Sora and dash through them and unleash a large slash projection at them. Byleth's Sword of the Creator swing down a large red energy slash to intercept and explode as Aether leap into the air spinning.

"Go with the wind!" Then Aether used his craft: Gust Surge to summon a tornado to pull those who are close to it and strike them

"Azure Cleaver!" Laura used her craft: True Azure Cleaver to intercept the tornado as both attacks exploded.

Duvalie long toward Arianrhod and they both swing and trust at each other while Byleth lung toward Aether and they swing their swords at each other with rapid paste. Byleth block and ripose Aether and then slashes him, pushing him back as Rean lung toward Aether and slash through him while Juna ran up him and punch him. Aether taken the hits as Arianrhod swirl his lance and then swing at Duvalie with immense strength. Duvalie managed to evade as she begin to imbue her sword with white power and unleash a series of slashes onto her. Aranrhod repel each of her attacks until one attack was able to strike the armor that damaged her. Crow then rush in to slashed her. Then he pull out his Orbal Pistol and fire energy bullets at her.

Arianrhod then use Ultimate Saber to Push Duvalie and repel the energy bullets while Aether blocks Juna's punches as Rean used Waning Crescent Flash on Aether, but Arianrhod combat link ability protective wall activated, long in front of Aether and protected him and knock Rean back with the swing as Aether lung toward him, unleash lightning fast slashes on him and then slash through him with phantom slashes. Aether aims his hand with golden energy and fire a beam of light to knock him toward Juna. Byleth lung toward Aether as they swing at each other as Arianrhod join the fight and strike Byleth, allowing Aether to follow up with combo slashes on him then push him back with twin slashes.

Kairi launch Firaga at Aether and struck him as Riku unleash a series of combo slashes at him and knock Aether into the sky, but Arianrhod zoom and slash him away. Aether recovered, switch his sword with a Bow and fired magical arrows onto the group as he landed. Aether switch back to his sword as he raised his sword high to shoot a beam of light from the sky and summon portals of gigantic sword to rain down onto the battlefield.

"Incoming!" Riku yelled at everyone jump to dodged while Arianrhod cast an Orbal Art: Seventh Caliber onto everyone.

Aether extended his Golden sword with golden energy and slashed upward right, then downward left. He then slashes downwards right, then finishes with a wide horizontal slash to the right, dealing great area damage onto them. Byleth jump up, switching to Amyr to swing on the ground to create a powerful red shockwave that launch toward Aether and Arianrhod as Emma swirl her staff as the jewel responded, raising her staff high as magic circles appeared and each shot stream of fire, water and wind magic toward Aether and Arianrhod. Aether and Arianrhod both flip and dodge each attack as Crow switches to twin pistols and then lock on them with Homing Shots. Aether deflected them as Levi use Penetrate Hurl onto him and Arianrhoh, striking them. Arianrhod swung her arm to blow away the smoke as Aether impaled the ground with his sword, creating an afield of energy that suddenly glowed and burst into a golden explosion, striking everyone.

"Now, Lianne!" Aether yelled as his combat link with Arianrhod glow.

"As you wish!" Arianrhod zoom toward Rean's team and strike them each and launch them together as Aether's sword glow golden then dash toward with speed invisible to the naked eye, slashing all of them with phantom slashes until he raised his sword that extended toward the ceiling of the shrine and swing down, causing a large explosion that knock all of them away with a devastating blow.

"Rrgh!" Byleth grunted as some of them nearly feel to their knees. "What incredible strength..."

"No wonder those two are so formidable together." Aqua said as Aether and Arianrhod took their stand again

"Don't give up just yet!" Ventus yelled as he cast Cura to heal the group and both Aranrhod and Aether long toward the group. "Aqua, Sora!"

"Right!" Both Aqua and Sora yelled as they form a barrier as Arianrhod's lance trying to penetrate it with Aether's sword trying to break it.

The barrier burst and repel their attack, damaging them as Kazuha imbued his Katana with green energy, dashes toward them, slashing through them and then perform his craft: Garyuu Bladework by let out combo slashes by warping form like an X as it glow underneath, then Kazuha reappeared and swing his katana and the glowing green X power rises.

"Now!" Kazuha yelled as Ventus follow up by throwing the swords into the ground, creating a circular magic emblem made of light, then lands in the center of the swords as a brilliant shockwave.

Levi imbued his Glaive with his power and then he lunged toward Aether and slashed him while Laura lung toward Arianrhod and launch a strong swing to push her back. Aranrhod and Aether hold their ground as Aether begin to cast the Lost Orbal Art: Prominence Nova as a card of the sun appeared and then fire form together a large sphere and transform into a phoenix that fly toward the ground to cause a fiery explosion on everyone, debuffing them.

"Since when can you use a Lost Art?!" Celine yelled.

"Oh trust me. I have more than just one." Aether said as his sword glow with radiant energy and unleash a large slash projection toward Emma.

Emma used her Mirror magic to absorb the slash and reflect it back at Aether to push him back as Byleth used Sublime Heaven to crumble the battlefield on Arianrhod and Aether and strike them, allowing Emma to follow up by throwing magic projections onto Aether, damaging him as Sora airstep toward Arianrhod and use Ars Arcanum on her while Aqua shot lock with Prism Rain onto the two legendary saints. Aqua then lung toward Arianrhod and combo swing her and push her back with ker Keyblade. Arianrhod recovered as Aether lung toward Aqua to aid his partner. Duvalie interferes by using her craft: Swift Slash.

"Thunder of the Royalle Heaven. Fall to the Battlefield!" Arianrhod raised her lance high, shooting lightning into the air and striking everyone and undo their buffs.

"Ready, Lianne?" Aether took his stand as his battle aura skyrocket once more.

"Of course!" Arianrhod responded as Aether's sword extended.

Aether created clones of himself and then each slashed away Rean, Levi, Xehanort, Aqua, Ventus, Eraqus, Riku, Xehanort, Kairi, Byleth, Laura, Emma, Crow, Duvalie, Juna and Sora. Arianrhod imbued her lance with power and dash through them as a flurry of jabs struck them. Aether then summon another sword as he lunged at them, unleash a large slash on all of them and slash through them as he teleported around and slash through them as Arianrhod joined by slash through them. Aether and Arianrhod reappeared around everyone with afterimages to strike each one until both Aether and Arianrhod join their hands and aim their arms to the sky where the magical energy join forced into a gigantic sword, wielding it together.

"RADIANT MESSIAH!" Both yelled and swing down the gigantic sword and cause a gigantic explosion to grumble the arena

"NNgh!" Kahuha grunted with the others as the arena automatically reattached itself, brining them with it.

"What the heck was that? A team attack?" Riku fell to his knees until Kairi use Curaga to heal everyone.

"Yeah. But that enough isn't going to stop us!" Juna declared as she power up.

Juna used Break Cross 2 on Arianrhod as Rean followed up as he slashed her. Arianrhod swing her lance as Rean move swiftly to follow and block her attacks and then Rean jumped to the air and swung down his Tachi as Aranrhod blocked, but allowed Juna to use Brave Smash 2 to punch her after Rean jumped off. Aether unleash a flurry of slashes at Duvalie as she respond in kind and then Aether block and ripose and unleash rapid trust on her and push her back as Crow strike him with his double saber. They swing at each other until Crow unleash a powerful to push him back. Kazuha rush toward Aether and they wing at each other until both of them power struggle. But shortly after, Aether won the power struggle and then slash Kazuha, pushing him back as Ventus use Wind Raid on him allowing Kauzha to slash through him.

Aqua let out a few swings at Arianrhod as she block and ripose and then unleash rapid trust. Aqua cartwheel dodged and then swing her Keyblade and striking her as Sora use Sonic Leap and then fired Firaga on her. Arianrhod recovered and then she used her craft: Sturm Lanzer on him.

"Aether, to me!" Arianrhod's combat link glow with his.

"Got it!" Aether yelled as Arianrhod push Sora and Aqua back with a swing as Aether slash through them, following up with jumping and sending spin slash projections at them while Arianrhod dashes through them repeatedly until she stop, swing her arm and invisible strike struck them and knock them away.

Sora and Aqua recovered and use Curaga to heal themselves as Levi begin to used his S-Craft: Rune Stella as he close his eyes and his finger glow with magic begin to create a magic circle and press it as it "ding" as Zemuria's main and higher elements magic circles appeared around Aether and Arianrhod, then trapped them in a large sphere and the circles circling around and shooting energy beam into the sphere. Levi imbued his Glaive with his power throw it with superhuman speed into Arianrhod and the sphere and strike them. Levi's Glaive turn to his hand and then spin and unleash a powerful gigantic slash toward the sphere to unleash a rainbow pillar.

Aether swing his arm to dispel the pillar as Arianrhod begin to sued her S-Craft as she awakened her aura that form into a tornado, and aimed her arm to capture everyone one by one. Arianrhod then dash through each one of Rean's team through superhuman speed and tied them with a Cross energy.

"Grand Cross!" Arianrhod yelled, swinging her arm as the cross exploded on everyone.

Everyone fell onto the ground but they all got back on their feet and resume the fight, after Aqua, Ventus and Sora use Curaga on them and themselves. Juna power up and then she lung toward Arianrhod to punch her, but she block it with her lance and push her back,only for Juna to backflip and then double jump to fire bullets toward them as Rean use Aracane Gale on them.

Sora notice the Brave Order fuctions are working again.

"All right." Sora nodded. "Let's do this! Guiding Key!" Then he activated his Brave Order to increase their critical as Sora Formchange to Mikazuki. He zoom toward Arianrhod and Aether with superhuman speed, dealing critical strike on them and a flurry of slashes onto them. Aqua then follow up with Spellweaver as she lung toward them and spinning around, slashing them.

Arianrhod and Aether impaled the ground and then wrapped their arms around themselves and then released them, swinging their arms and creating a powerful force to knock both Aqua and Sora back. Sora and Aqua recovered as Sora airstrip toward Aether and resumed slashing them fiercely as Aqua summoned multiple ice crystals and launch them to strike them. Sora then deal the finishing move as the Tachi, Double Saber and Lance form around him and fire beams of light into a light explosion on the two saints. Laura then used her S-Craft as she lung toward them, launch heavy swings.

"Radiant Phoenix Blade!" Laura swing down her Greatsword, pushing Arianrhod and Aether back with immense strength.

"Take this!" Xehanort raised his hand to summon planoids and launch them toward Aether and Arianrhod, only for Aether to lunged and slash through it, crumbling it in an instruct.

"Try this!" Aether summon a bow of light and launch multiple light arrows onto then and causing multiple explosion of light onto the battlefield as Arianrhod lunged at Eraqus.

Both of them swing at each other until Eraqus empower himself with light and then rapidly slash her away. Arianrhod recovered as Kairi run to her and swing her, only to block and parry her away. Sora use Thundaga on her as Aqua Shotlock her with Prism Rain while Venti use Wind Raid onto Aether and knock him off the sky.

"Tch!" Aether grunted as he recovered. He landed on the floor and see Riku shotlock him with Dark Divine. He deflected each one and then raise his sword in the sky and fire a beam of light that rain down multiple beam onto the battlefield.

Duvalie zoom at Aether as they swing at each other until Duvalie shield bash him and then slash him away.

"All right, it's over!" Aether begin to use his S-Craft: as he was surrounded by a golden aura. He impaled the ground which spread light all over the battlefield.

"What?" Levi look down as the light flash and rose up. "Nngh!"

"So long as I fight, I will do what I must." Aether begin to sprout golden wings as he readied his sword. He warp all around the team, tapping each one with the tip of his sword and a golden magic appeared on them, immobilizing them until he channel a golden sphere to trapped them. He shrink the sphere down with everyone in it and pull the sphere to him and unleash a massive slash. "Golden Paradox!" He yelled a pillar of light skyrocket with devastating damage.

As everyone grunted. Kazuha cast his Orbal Art: Ixion Vortez onto them. Levi lunged at Aether and they swing at each other as Rean lung toward Arianrhod with his tachi imbued with fire. Arianrhod took her stance and begin to launch her jab. Aether dodged Levi's attack and then kick his face to push him back. At the same time, Rean swing his Tachi upward toward the lance and was pushed back. However, the tip of the lance was cut, causing Aether and Arianrhod's attention.

"Ah!" Aether gasped.

"All right! We did it!" Sora panted.

"Don't be so hasty! We've only just begun!" Duvalie warned. "We won't lose to you, my lord!"

(BGM ended)

Arianrhod chuckled as she smiled as suddenly, the swirl of mana begin to stir.

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

"Ah, the Rivalry has begun." Xehanort look around.

Arianrhod made her lance disappear as Aether did the same to his sword and he begin to step to the side with Paimon.

Arianrhod walk to Aregion. "Let's begin, Argreion."

"Understood." Argreion replied as Arianrhod begin to enter her cockpit as she got up and summoned her lance.

"We'll take it from here Duvalie." Rean said "I swear we'll get through to her for you!"

"Kgh... All right, Schwarzer! Don't you dare disrespect my lord with some half-hearted display." Duvalie replied

Crow smirked. "Heh, you got it!"

"Good luck!" Juna yelled as the team step back.

"Lianne has been piloting that knight for 250 years. Do not take her lightly!"

"Heed my call-Valimar!" Rean shout

"Come! Ordine!" Crow shout

Both Divine Knights appeared as Rean and Crow enter their Divine Knights and brought out their weapons.

"I have not had the chance to battle other Divine Knights since our meeting at the Workship." Arianrhod said. "That sword of yours. Strange... I don't sense that girl's presence."

"Well, it was thanks to Palutena that we got her back." Rean said.

"Oh?"

"Just like everyone in the Radiant Wings, she'll be supporting us. For their sake, we can't afford to lose now!"

"You ready Steel Maiden?! We're gonna go full force!" Crow added

"I admire that spirit. I will not hold back, either. Bring to bear all the strength you used to best the Jaeger King and Master Xehanort!" Arianrhod commanded

"Go Lianne! You can do this!" Aether yelled. "You too, Rean, Crow! Both of you give it everything you got!" Aether yelled.

The Divine Knight of the Moon - Argreion

Valimar swing the Sword of the End as Argreion block and counter with a trust. Ordine then launched himself and slashed Argreion and then combo slashed her. Argreion shield herself and then swing her lance to strike at Ordine and then used Sturm Lanzer. Valimar used Lustrous Slash as he followed up by slashing down as Juna's secondary contractor power: Brave Star boost his movement to strike again as Ordine used Blade Throw onto Argeion and strike. Ordine swirled his Double slashed her, but Argreion block and push him back while Valimar use Waning Crescent Slashed. Aregion used Ultimate Saber and then unleashed a flurry of jabs onto Valimar and then. Argreion swirl his lance and unleashes a powerful slash onto both Valimar and Ordine.

Ordine and Valimar blocked it and then Valimar let out horizontal slashes twice and then a wide vertical slash as Ordine launched some trust attacks. Argreion recovered and then raised her lance high and used an Anglican Hammer to strike down lightning on them and then lung toward Ordine with lightning jabs and slashes. Valimar slash, but Argreion block and countered and slashed him right back. Argreion trusts attack onto Valimar's leg, shoulder, and open areas and knocks Valimar back.

"Nngh!" Rean grunted. 'Damn I knew she was a legend...'

Ordine swirl his Double Saber and slashed Argreion and Argreion took its stance and dashed through Ordine and combo-slash him spin horizontally slashing Ordine's back to push him. Ordine recovered as Crow gasped as Argreion took its stance again and used Strum Lanzer. But Valimar got in front of Ordine and slashed it, pushing Argreion back. Valimar then use True Helix onto Argreion to unleash a series of slashes onto her. Argreion recovered and it and Valimar swing at each other, only for Valimar to be pushed back while Ordine struck Argreion's back as payback. Argreion turns and slashes Ordine who blocks the attack. Jump back, imbued his Double Saber to unleash Large X slash projection at her and strike her. Valimar raised the Sword of the End and swung down with a large slash projection and strike Argreion.

Argreion raised her lance and rain light lightning and then she unleash her jabs onto Valimar. Valimar perform the Morning Moon Stance to evade her attacks and then counterattack the opening. Argreion block the attack but was pushed back. Argreion took her stance as her lance imbued with power unleash a wide trust attack onto Ordine and Valimar. Ordine blocked it but was pushed back while Valimar evaded the attack then slash through Argreion, unleashing two horizontal slashes on her and then slam the ground where Argreion block on a power struggle. Argreion has the upper hand with strength, but Arianrhod knows that Ordine is capable of taking her opening now. Given that chance, she push Valimar and then notice Ordine used Criminal Edge, which she blocked in the nick of time.

Ordine's Second contactor of Mario imbued his Double Saber and swirl the saber into a tornado of fire which Argreion tried to block it, but the fire go through and giving a powerful affect. Valimar used True Hexil onto Argreion as they begin to perform the Deadly Domination. Ordine slash through Argreion and Vlaimar did the same. Ordine swnd out a wide red X slash projection while Valimar slash through her again, unleashing multiple phantom slashes upon the wake.

"NNUGH!" Arianihod winched before slowly chuckled. "Impressive."

Argreion powered up as her lance imbued with radiant power. Argreion unleash her aura into a tornado. The same tornado used for her S-Craft. She throw it at Valimar and Ordine. Capture them, strike through them and restrain them with a cross. She swung her arm and the Cross exploded on them. Both Divine Knights recovered as Argreion charged through Valimar as in Rean's mind, she was slowly reaching to strike him. Rean waited for the perfect opportunity to dodged and swiftly move to her opening, causing Arianrhod to gasped and then strike her. Valimar raised the Sword of the end swing it down on Argreion, sending down slash projections with it while Ordine send out an X slash projections and exploded on her.

Argreion drop her lance and fell to her knees as said lance disappeared.

(BGM ended)

"They did it!" Juna exclaimed

"They surpassed Lianne..." Roselia said with a smile before noticing Aether eyes widen before smile, then turn sad and look down.

"But that would also mean..." Aether muttered.

"So that's the power of 250 years of training." Rean panted.

"No kidding...the Steel Maiden...no, Lianne Sandlot is one hell of a fighter." Crow said.

"Well done, Ashen, Azure Awakeners." Arianrhod said sincerely. "It would seem this is the end."

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Sorrow Flower)

Argreion begin to be transparent.

"MY LORD!" Duvalie yelled as she rushed over to her with everyone.

"Forgive me, Aether. I know how much hope you place in me and how much training I've endured to reach this far." Arianrhod said.

Aether shook his head. "No." He said with a smile but sounded solemn. "You did beautifully, Lianne. I'm so proud of you... even if you lose."

"You're far too kind my dear friend. Now, the Ashen Knight will absorb the Argent Knight's power. Adding this newfound strength to which you won from the Palatinate Knight, you now have a significant advantage in the Rivalries. But it will not guarantee your victory against the Ebon Knight. You have that chance."

"Hold on. You don't mean…" Crow responds in surprise.

"Was this part of your plan all along? To give us your power so that we'd have a fighting chance against Ishmelga?" Rean asked.

"No, I assure you, I fought with every ounce of strength I had." Lianne replied. "You simply proved to be the more powerful. All due to your trust in yourself and your allies. Between the strength Lady Le Quin, and now Duvalie have shown me. I feel as though I'm seeing the dawn of a new era."

"My lord!" Duvalie sadden.

"I have no regrets. My journey has been long. So very long, it's time for it to end."

"Enough of your nonsense, Lianne!" Roselia shout.

Valimar begin to return the power back to Argreion.

"Wha...?" Aether eye widen.

"No regrets? You complete and utter fool! I will never forgive you if you give up and fade away now! You have yet to apologize for not telling me of the burden you carried all those years! And what of Dreichels's soul? Do you not care what becomes of him?!" Roselia argued.

"She's right! And what about the war?! It might be impossible to stop it now— Even I know that. But you're the Lance Maiden! You help end the War of the Lions! So please! Stay here! If this war gets out of control, we'll need your help to stop it!" Juna added

"The Jaeger King may have been tricked into becoming an Awakener, but you're different. You made this choice yourself!" Rean stated

"My lord, you chose to walk this path on your own, and now you're trying to go off to Aidios on your own, too! Did I not prove to you that I'm worthy of walking by your side?! If you were to disappear now… then what did I fight for?" Duvalie sadden. "And what about the young lord?! His heart would be crushed, just like what happened with Leonhardt. He may act mature now, but deep down, you know that he will cry. I don't know if you talk to him or not... but do you think it's okay for you to say goodbye to him without seeing you one last one?! It's not fair! It's just… not fair!"

"Duvalie…" Arianrhod trailed off.

Aether let out a soft laugh. "They're right, Lianne." He said, causing Agreion's head to turn. "I'm not sure what's going on right now but... everyone agrees... even me that you should stay and help end this war. We both thought we should handle this ourselves... but I was so very wrong. Everyone here carrying Dreichel's will. But... somewhere along the way, we both even forgot what he taught us both about life... right?"

"Ah..." Arianrhod let out a quiet gasp "Haha… perhaps, you're right. I would have been satisfied to die here, surrounded by those who carry on Dreichel's will. However, just like you said, Aether... I forgot how precious life is. I'll live on… if at the very least to see you once more…"

"No. All legends must have an end. It's time to lay you to rest." Then suddenly Rufus's voice was heard.

Suddenly El Pralo appeared behind and impaled Agreion, causing everyone to respond in shock, mostly Aether to gasp.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Great Twilight)

"LIAAAAAAAAANE!" Aether reach out his hand in shock as Valimar and Ordine lung toward El Prado in warcry.

(BGM paused)

Byleth clenched his teeth and used Divine Pulse to rewind time.

(Resuming Sorrow Flower)

"No regrets? You complete and utter fool!" Roselia argued.

'Palutena! Do you read me!?' Byleth telepathic yelled.

"Byleth? What's wrong? You sounded alarming." Plautena asked

'There's no time! Rufus is going to appear in his Divine Knight and kill Lianne Sandlot and take the Argent Knight's power!'

"WHAT?!"

'Quick! Get Zhongli or anyone to counter the barrier! Hurry!'

"Got it!"

Aether let out a soft laugh. "They're right, Lianne." He said, causing Agreion's head to turn. "I'm not sure what's going on right now but... everyone agrees... even me that you should stay and help end this war. We both thought we should handle this ourselves... but I was so very wrong. Everyone here carrying Dreichel's will. But... somewhere along the way, we both even forgot what he taught us both about life... right?"

"Ah..." Arianrhod let out a quiet gasp "Haha… perhaps, you're right. I would have been satisfied to die here, surrounded by those who carry on Dreichel's will. However, just like you said, Aether... I forgot how precious life is. I'll live on… if at the very least to see you once more…"

(BGM ended)

"No. All legends must have an end. It's time to lay you to rest." Rufus's voice argued as El-Prado suddenly appeared from behind.

"PALUTENA, NOW!" Byleth yelled as El Prado was prepared to stabbed Agreion.

(Resuming Great Twilight)

Just as he was going to, Palutena, Ei and Zhongli appeared behind Agreion and form a barrier to block the attack.

"Huh!?" Aether's eye widen and suddenly Makarov appeared in his Giant form and then punched El-Prado, only for him to create a barrier as he was pushed back.

"What...?!" Arianrhod turn her head.

"Rufus?!" Crow asked. "Palutena, Zhongli, Ei?"

"Oh, thank goodness, we made it in time." Palutena sighs with relief.

"Palutena, what are you, Zhongli, Ei and Makarov doing here?" Rean asked.

"Rufus was going to murder Lianne and take the Argent Knight's power." She answered, causing everyone to gasp. "If it weren't from a revelation we received... Rufus would have stolen Argeion's power through the most shameful way."

"Tch... I should have expected the Goddess of Light to interfere. You really are a thorn in our side..." Rufus grumbled, at the same time, everyone from the Radiant Wings met up with everyone, including Ines and Ennea.

"What's going on?" Ennea asked as she look around.

"Everyone!" Juna called out.

"You're here!" Rean added

"So much for taking the spoils. I was certain I hid my presence well. Did that cursed mythical Pokemon Celebi tell you? Or was it Sothis's doing? Either way, it matters not. I was prepared to perform other measures to take the Argent Knight's power. But it seems you calculated that as well." Rufus sighed

"You piece of shit! How dare you pull that crap!" Ryuji yelled.

"You would take my life and take the Argent's Knights power? You vile man... This power was rewarded to the Ashen Knight! You have no right to take it!" Arianrhod growled.

"Rufus Albarea...!" Aether glared with rage.

"Oh please. The point of these Rivalries is to take one another. Didn't anyone tell you to not let your guard down on the battlefield? Besides, we don't need the opposing sides more allies by recruiting the victors. So what choice of actions must we take?" Rufus asked. "The great war of this era is about to begin. Old legends from bygone days have no place here."

"You...!" Arianrhod growled

El-Prado then begin to take off.

"Well it doesn't matter I suppose. I may not have the Argent Knight's power, but at least I will say that your time is running out. Soon, the omens will appear, and Operation Jormungandr will begin tomorrow. All the preparations for the war have been finished. Supreme Commander Vandyke will see to the rest. I will be waiting for you alongside His Excellency at the final stage. I look forward to finishing our little talk there." Rufus said as he teleported away.

(BGM ended)

"The final Stage?" Emma asked

"What does that mean?" Celine wondered

"Never mind that for now! Lianne, are you all right?!" Aether yelled as he rushed to Argreion.

(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Aria of the Saint (Spirit Shrine))

"Yes... I am all right." Lianne answered as Aregrion was no longer transparent, and Lianne came out from her, looking at herself. "What is this?"

Rean and Crow came out of their Divine Knight.

"Look like it work." Rean sigh of relief.

"Yeah. You successfully made her your kin." Crow nodded.

"Ah... So what is what you did..." Lianne said, lowering her head.

"Lianne!" Roselia rush to her and hug her.

"...!"

"Oh thank goodness you're okay! The thought of you disappearing from that makes me-"

"My Lord!" Duvalie yelled as she and the Stalritter join with Aether. "Oh thank Aidios... and everyone else...!" Then she hug Lianne and begin to cry.

"Duvalie..." Lianne said with a warm smile as she hugged them both. "I'm truly sorry for all the worry I caused you Rose..."

Aether turn to everyone. "Everyone... I owe you all a debt." Aether said with a smile before he look sad. "If it weren't for you... Lianne would have left this world... and the Argent's Knight power would have gone to Rufus instead. Even if Lianne is on borrowed time... I can't thank you enough for saving both her and Argreion."

"Yes. I like to offer my gratitude as well." Argreion said.

"I like to say the same as well." Lianne replied with a warm smile. "Thank you everyone. I swear I will repay you for saving my temporary life. My strength is yours."

"We're just glad that your okay." Nahida said.

"Yes. Thank goodness for everyone who pitch in." Emma agreed.

"Though I must say." Lianne turn to Eraqus and Xehanort. "I never thought after all this time that I would fight alongside you both, Eraqus and Xehanort. Especially after everything the three of us went through in the past."

Eraqus chuckled. "Haha, well I always knew that perhaps we would. Because we both know you well enough to know you are opposed to any of this. Of course, it does bring me to a mystery as to why you would help end the war. But I'm glad to finally know the reason. And I'm so happy that we can fight side by side."

"I believe this is the first time we have ever fought side by side from now on. Most of those days, the three of us chat and spare in each other in those golden days." Xehanort said.

"You're right. Those were my most fond memories with you two back when you were still young. Though of course, Eraqus was irresponsible and far too relaxed while you Xehanort were more mature and collected. Time really changes for you both." Arianrhod said with an amusing smirk as she folded her arms and her hand to her chin.

Eraqus sweatdropped. "Let's not talk about that."

(BGM ended)

A flash of light began to engulf everyone.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Promise of that Day)

Everyone was then teleported back to the Wetlands and the sky had changed to the hour of the morning sun...

Dateline: Semtember 4 1206.

"Are we… back?" Machias asked.

"Yeah. We're back." Levi nodded. "And, I guess it's morning."

"Hehe… things certainly took an unexpected, Huh?" Rean smiled.

"I'm so glad… my Lord… you're back with us." Duvalie sniff with joy.

"Wipe your tears Duvalie. You fought well and open my eyes. I am proud of your process." Lianne smiled.

"We're glad to have you wish us, Lady Lianne. You too, Aether." Rean said with a warm smile.

"No... We should we be thanking you still." Aether smiled as he turn to Valimar. "I no longer sense the curse's hold on Valimar... Guess Levi and Palutena's powers has set him free..." Then turn to Millium. "And Millium has a body of her own."

"Yeah. That was Palutena's doing. But I'm glad to be here. But sadly, Lammy isn't here." Millium said

"Aha... Well I'm sure we'll find some way to recover him." Aether scratches his cheek. "Still... Let me give you my reward." Aether pull out a sphere of some kind and it slowly resonating with Valimar and as it flew toward the cockpit and then vanished, causing Valimar to glow a bit.

"Huh? What just happened?" Rean asked as the faded finished glowing.

"Hmm... So this was my memory bank." Valimar said. "It seems I've recovered all of my lost memory."

"Ah..."

"Valimar's memory core was slightly damaged during the War of the Lion. I took it out without Dreichel's knowing that time. I been repairing it ever since. I wasn't able to return it because of Alberich. And most of the time I forgot because a lot of things happened." Aether explained.

"You have got to be joking." Celine sweatdrop.

"My bad, really. But I really do owe everyone an apology for everything... Especially to Rose."

"Oh trust me. You OWE me a lot of apologies! You and Lianne both! Do you have any idea how much I worried over you!?" Roselia pouted while her tears are out.

"Forgive me, Rose. I don't blame you for being angry with us. All I can say is… I'm sorry." Lianne apologizes.

"Yeah. I owe you my sorry too. For everything... and... for hiding things from you." Aether agreed, placing his hand over his chest.

"W-Well… you can start by apologizing AFTER you two and I had a long long LOOOONG talk!" Roselia fold her arms. "And this time... I won't be holding back."

Everyone sweatdrop.

"Good luck to you, Lianne." Xehanort said.

"Aw man, did we miss the main event?" A voice suddenly asked as Campanella appeared.

"Campanella?" Sora asked.

"What are you doing here?" Donald asked, reading to get his wand

"Oh, don't be like that. I'm not here to pick a fight. I wash here to simply come to say my farewells to a longtime friend." Campanella turn his head to the left. "And looks like I'm not the only one."

Vita, Nine, Hakumen, Jubei, Rachel, Bleublanc, Joshua and Renne appeared.

"Vita!" Emma exclaimed

"Renne! Joshua!" Tita added

"Rabbit, Mask Freak, and Nine?" Ragna asked

"Bleublanc, too… You were all watching, weren't you?" Sharon asked.

"Indeed… this was one of the reasons we agreed to help with the performance." Bleublanc answered

"The rest of us join for the fun." Konoe said.

"Hmph..." Hakumen just let out a hmph.

"I used my spells to keep an eye on you. I'm glad we were able to catch you." Vita said. "I also like to offer you my gratitude too. You all managed to save the Steel Maiden from Rufus's cowardly move... thanks to certain beings' intervention."

"We are so happy that we are to see her alive, even in borrowed time. The two of us had tea together all the time… and her and Loewe's sparring sessions were always a sight to behold. Especially those cute moments where Noel had his family time too." Renne smiled.

"Even when I had completely closed my heart off to the rest of the world, You were there and still tried to reach out for me." Joshua added. "Thank you Arianrhod… thank you for trying to reach out to me."

"Hehe. There is no need to thank me. I am happy to see how much you have grown. Leonhardt would have been very proud of you. Both of you." Lianne replied.

"Lord Arianrhod…"

Juna blink. "Hold on. I don't see Noel with you."

"Your right. I thought he would accompany you." Kurt turn to Campanella.

"True. Noel would indeed accompany me, but unfortunately, he's busy right now. Even if he wanted to, which we all know he would." Campanella said. "To be honest. I'm very happy to see our Steel Maiden alive... even with borrowed time. By the time the Great Twilight is over, Ouroboros lost quite a valuable pawn today. It's a shame it was necessary for the Rivalries. And I'm sure Noel will need comfort, knowing how emotional he can be. Well, I'm sure the Grandmaster won't mind all that much." Campanella replied

"Really? Out of all the things you said, that's what comes out of your mouth?" Ann look at him with a deadpan look.

"Seriously. You couldn't put in better words?" Futaba asked.

"Oh trust me, I would. And to be perfectly honest. When she's gone, I'll be grieving alongside Noel. I'm sure many of you would find that hard to believe." Campanella sighed. "Even I find it a little strange I can feel this way. Life's just full of surprises. "

"Campanella…" Renne trailed off.

"Just when I think I've got you figured out… Well, since you're here, there's something I've been wanting to ask you." Vita said. "What is this omen the governor general mentioned? And what did he mean by the 'final stage'?"

"Now that you mention it." Kurt respond

"I do remember him saying that." Celine said.

"And I'm guessing it has something to do with why McBurn, The Mad Dog, the Bloodlust Guy, (Tartaglia), that Ice Dragon guy, (Alban) Mirror Guy, (Natsume) the Spacial Maiden (Minerva), Noel, and the Ogre Girl aren't here." Renne added.

"Yeah, something's off. Those freaks wouldn't miss the chance to see a battle like this. And Noel would want to be here for his mother and the Stalritter's sake." Randy stated

"And I think Neve would also want to be here too." Mickey said

Joshua nodded. "And McBurn and Arianrhod were among Ouroboros' longest members. You'd think he'd be here, too."

"Both Mcburn and Azrael are conspicuous in their absence. I realize they just left the tower, but still, they should have been able to make it here." Sharon stated

Campanella clicked his fingers and activated his teleportation. "I wouldn't want to spoil the surprise. You'll find out the reason why soon enough."

"Huh? Hey!" Juna shout.

Campanella then vanished.

"Everyone, look!" Millium said.

(BGM ended)

Suddenly in the sky, a whitish black flash appeared out of nowhere, spreading the black wave further.

"What the heck was that?" Happy asked

"I don't know, but something sinister about it." Carla replied, looking nervous.

Suddenly Rean's heart gave a heartbeat as he fell to his knees, but it wasn't just him, Crow and Lianne felt a shiver down their spine while Xehanort senses kick him.

"Hm?!" Xehanort gave a serious look to the location of the whiteish black flash.

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Conspiracy in Motion)

"Instructor!" Altina exclaimed as Alisa and Altina knee down to check on him.

"Rean? what's the matter?!"

"Crow?" Morgan check on her Fiance.

"My lord!" The Stalritter exclaimed

"I-I'm fine. But this presence, it's..." Rean grumbled.

"Yeah... I feel it, too. Something big just showed up." Crow agreed.

"That distortion just now..." Zhongli places his finger to his lips. "Bu- Nahida, was that...?"

Nahida nodded. "Yes. There's no doubt about it. It came from that very place."

Aether gasped. "Wait... you don't mean..."

"Is everyone okay down there?" Olivert's voice called out.

Just then, the Courageous II showed up.

"The Courageous II!" Angelica exclaimed

"Olivier, is that you?" Tita asked

"Sorry, there's no time to explain. Please come aboard quickly!" Olivert replied "Estelle, Lloyd and the others are with me, too."

"Something strange is happening all over the Empire. It started in the skies over the Osgiliath Basin!" Towa added

(BGM ended)

---

A moment ago...

In the midwestern Erebonoa Skies above the Osgiliath Basin. The Whiteless black flash appeared as a vortex appeared from it.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Millennium Fortress)

Coming out of said vortex was a gigantic floating island-like fortress with giant red eyes that appeared from the bottom, moving as if it were alive. Above the floating island was Ouroboros New highly advanced battleship the Glorious II. On the deck were Mcburn, Tartaglia, Shirley, Natsume, Alban, Minerva, and Noel.

"Well I'll be damn." Alban mused.

"So this is where we'll be from now on, hm?" Minerva mused.

"Heh. Quite the light show, I'll admit." Natsume said.

"Man… It kinda sucks I didn't get the chance to say goodbye to the Steel Maiden." Shirley sighed

"But we did make the right choice to come here, right?" Tartaglia asked

"Yep. The party's just gettin' started." Mcburn answered as he nodded with a smirked on his face

Noel let out a deep sigh as he look so sad.

"You still feeling okay?" Shirley asked me. "I mean like… you never got the chance to say goodbye to your mom, right?"

"I'm fine." Noel answered. "I already said goodbye two days ago. She may have left this world. But I know she died surrounded by loved ones and an honorable death without regrets."

---

In Ordis...

The whiteless black flash appeared in Ordis from the distance to the sea. As the black wave washed and emerged from the vortex was a Gigantic sculpture with a sinister-looking aura around it.

Governor Regnitz and the Heimdallr Police ran to the manor and see the mysterious sculpture.

"What... is that?!" Carl asked

In the harbor was Musse's Grandparents, maids and a few people and Pokemon passing by.

"Dear!" Lady Suzanne turn to her husband.

"A white spire?!" Count Egret muttered. "It seems familiar."

---

In Saint-Arkh...

The same thing happened to Saint-Arkh in the distance where Pople and Pokemon look in shock. Irina, Gwyn, Sutherland Provincial soldiers. Marquis Ballard, Marquis Hyarm, and Celestin arrived.

"Bwhaaat?!" Marquis Ballard gasped.

"What in the Goddess' name...?" Marquis Hyarm wondered

"Irina..." Gwyn turn to Irina. "Do you know anything about this?"

"Even I have no idea what's going on now." Irina replied "However... I see. It's not a railway cannon or even an airship. So this is what they..."

---

In Nord Highland...

The same thing happened in Nord, but this time, coming to see the view was Ouorboros Enhanced Jaeger's 6th Regiment units.

"Whoa... So that's it?" An Enhanced Jaeger asked

Gilbert laughed. "So this is what the Fool mentioned... Their ultimate trump card!"

---

In Eisengard Mountain Range...

The same thing happened, but this time the Wiessland Army see it.

"What in tarnation!?" Jubei exclaimed.

"What... is that?" Trinity gasped.

"So that's it. Just like the thing that destroyed North Ambria!" Wallace glared.

---

In Legram...

The same thing happened again in the distance of Lohengrin Castle. The Bobcat II where Toval and Jossette see it.

"No way..." Josette gasped.

Toval growled. "Just like we were told. Dammit! What the hell are they doing!?"

---

In Fodlan...

The same thing happened in Fodlan in different places. One in the formal lands known as Adrestia, Faerghus and Leicester and one somewhere between formal Adrestia and Leicester, where Sothis, Judith, Rhea, Rogrigue, Seteth and Flayn watch from Viridi Castle balcony.

"Wh-What in Sothis name!?" Flayn gasped.

"What... are those things? They appeared in... No..." Seteth gasped.

"Three of them... They're affecting the land!" Rodrigue exclaimed

"This doesn't look good..." Judith grumbled.

"Mother... this is..." Rhea turn to her with a serious look.

"Those vile abominations..." Sothis clench her fist as she glare. "How dare they..."

---

Toad Town...

In Toad Town, the toads and the people where minding their own business until suddenly that same vortex appeared on the Mushroom Plains with the same spire.

"What the heck is that!?" A Toad exclaimed

"I don't know, but everyone panicked!" The other Toad exclaimed.

"What in the hell...?" Sojiro eye widen from the sight.

"This does not look good."

In Peach's Castle where Toadsworth was looking.

"What in the name of the Mushroom God is that!?" Tosdworth yelled as Scoutland growled as three more appeared in the Mushroom Kingdom Mushroom Plains.

---

In Bowser's Kingdom...

In the distance near Neo Bowser City, the same vortex appeared and the same spire appeared. In the distance of Bowser's Castle, a Parakoopa was patrolling who jaw-dopped and pulled out a communication device.

"Contact King Bowser immediately! An unidentified spire has been sighed in the kingdom!" He yelled.

---

In Ylisse...

In the location in Ylisse Mount Prism, the same vortez appeared and emerge was the spire.

---

Near the borders of the Mushroom Kingdom and Haeynn...

On the waters... the same vortex appeared with the spire, causing the water Pokemon there to panicked as they fled.

---

Breath of the wild Hyrule...

In Hyrule Field, the vortex appeared, causing the nearby Bokolins to flee while in Hyrule Castle, two soldiers rush to the throne room.

"Y-Your Majasery! An unknown spire appeared in Hyrule!"

"What!?" King Rhoam got up from his throne to take a look. "What in the name of the Goddess Hylia...?"

---

Fiore...

In Magnolia Town where the people minding their own business, suddenly the same vortez appeared with the Spire in the ocean of Fodlan where the people panicked while some of Fairy Tails members look outside to see the commotion.

"What in the world...?!" Romeo exclaimed

"Is that a giant spire?" Wakaba asked

"Contact the Guild Master!" Macro yelled

---

In Clover of Fiore...

The same thing happened in the mountain area in Clover Town, causing the people to react to the appearance to the spire.

---

Remnant...

Somewhere near the formal place of Beacon Academy, the Spire appeared from the vortez. The same applies to the formal area of Atlas...

---

In the Sea near the Mushroom Kingdom and Zemuria's borders...

"Crazy what did you do?!" Master Hand yelled and he saw Crazy Hand and System with seven spires located in different part of the seas.

"It wasn't me, I swear!" Crazy exclaimed

"Wow! Talk about a crazy day, am I right?" System asked

---

Rigbarth...

In Phoros Woodland... the vortex appeared with the Spire emerging from it. Coming out of the houses and building were Simone, Livia, Scarlet and the other villagers.

"What in the world? A spire?" Livia gasped.

---

In Heimdallr...

As the people of Heimdallr were minding their own business, the vortex appeared above where the giant island appeared over Heimdallr, causing the people to panicked

"Wh-What is that thing!?"

"It's so huge!"

"Citizens of Heimdallr, please remain calm." Cedric's voice as a Battleship pass near the fortress and a broadcast projection of him appears. What you see before you is not here to cause you harm. In fact, it is here to open the door to our future. Allow me to introduce our one of our ultimate weapons in the war against Calvard." He said as a booming roar appeared and shown in the broadcast where revealed to be visions of Agathan versions of the Divine Beast of Hyrule. One is a Tiger, One is a Lion, One is a Hawk, One is a Spider, One is a horse, One is a deer, one is an Owl, and one is a Bat. "Behold, the keys to Erebonia's absolute and lasting victory, the Empyreal Fortress! And our Titans!"

Black Pleroma grass begin to emerge from the floors of Heimdallr.

"Empyreal... Fortress?"

"Ha...Haha... So it's on our side? Great!"

"There's no way we'll lose to Calvard now! No! With those things, we could take on the entire world!" A woman yelled as she was covered in a black aura and her eyes was affected by Ishmelga's Mark, including the people.

"Long live the Empire of Erebonia!"

"The future belongs to us!"

---

In the battleship...

On the battleship was Black Alberich, Osborne, Claire, Lechter, Rufus, Cedric, Liam, Scaramouche, Neve, Relius, Hazama, Nu, Maleficent, Pete, Azrael, Magica, Adam, Signora, Salem, Watts, Eggman, Tyrian, Cubot, Orbot, Hazel, Dimentio, Metal Sonic, Epimenides and Cornelia.

"At last. The Empyreal Fortress. Built by us Gnomes 1,200 years ago." Alberich smirked. "The Tuatha De Danann. That shall be the stage for the final rivalry.

Osborne let out an evil chuckled. "Excellent."

"Ahahaah! What a show! A fitting stage for the grand finale!" Dimentio grinned

"Haha!" Alan laughed. "The Empyreal Fortress and the Titans! With those on our side, the Republic doesn't stand a chance!"

"So that's what you'll use to swallow everything up... until nothing remains." Vandyke muttered

"Yes... It will herald the end of the world." Osborne turn to him. "Supreme Commander of the Imperial Army, General Vnadyke. It is time we wake the World Serpent. On behalf of His Majesty, I now issue the final order to begin Operation Jormungangr. We wecalre war at 1200 hours tomorrow. The Rupublic's destruction will soon follow."

---

And that is one way to make a dramatic end. Now it's time to prepare. The end will soon be upon the world. That aside, please welcome the new members of the Radiant Wings! Lianne Sandlot and Aether!

Here is the battle info for Aether...

Aether the Golden Wanderer: Erebonia legendary Golden Wanderer. Fight alongside the Steel Maiden for the Rivalry. His immense skills and powers will overwhelm his opponents.

HP: 709467