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?

30. Black Truth

Dateline, August 31th, 1206 Thursday

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Crimson Flash Shadow -Radiant Wings-)

Everyone is on board the Courageous II as everything the Halbard has is on the ship. In the bridge, Michael in assisting Towa.

"Despite bring a new model of ship, the system you see here largely elulates that of the previous Courageous. Our operations manual only covers the bare minimum. Should you find anything lacking, you'll have to figure it out as you go." Michael said.

Towa nodded. "Understood. I'll make sure to pass it on to everyone else."

"In total, it spans a length of 150 arge. Slightly larger step up from the previous 74-arge class. However, because the ship is so much bigger, you'll need to carefully watch the step and engine output."

"Heh, so she's a wild one, eh?" Angelica grinned. "Sounds to me like this girls's gonna need a bit more taming than the last one."

"This terminal should give you complete command over all the ship's facilities and fire-control systems." A Mechanic told Tita who's currently using it. "It comes equipped with multiple Anti-hacking measures, specially developed by Professor Albert, Erika Russell, Professor E. Gadd, Ludwig, and Professor Kokonoe themselves."

"You mean, Mom, Grandpa, Professor E. Gadd, Kokonoe and Ludwig made it?" Tita look surprised but smiled with confidence. "Heehee. We should have no problems, then!"

"Wow. This entire ship is literally a state-of-the-art." Levi said.

Emma giggled. "And that computer's one of the Epstein Foundation's next-generation models. Weren't they only just developed?"

"That's right. And its hull has the latest innovations in hydrodynamic engineering, courtesy of the Roer Institutes of Technology." Alisa answered. "Plus. It seems to be outfitted with ZCF's newest next-gen orbal engine, too."

"It only gets more and more unbelievable every time I hear it." Machias said. "Just how did you manage to construct a cutting-edge ship like this abroad in total secrecy, without anyone finding out?"

"As I stated earlier, there are a great deal of individuals who helped me make this happen." Olivert replied. "Such as Mr. Gwyn, Professor Kokonoe, Professor E. Gadd, Dr. Light, Dr. Pietro here, for instance."

"Mhm. The story goes all the way back to right after the civil war." Gwyn smiled "Considering the way it ended, His Highness decided to approach me for some advice. Joining me was Professor Kokonoe, Dr. Light, Dr. Pietro and Professor. E. Gadd."

"Really? You guys were involved in this too?" Kirito asked.

"Yep. Like this guy said, he came to us for some advise." Kokonoe answered

"He had us prepare this ship for him, all in anticipation of the day when the Crimson Wings would be torn from the sky." Pietro nodded

"Really? I never knew that." Penny mused

"Huh. I do remember His Highness mentioning something about you being his adviser... But I never thought others such as Professor E. Gadd, Professor Kokonoe, Dr. Light and Dr. Pietro would be involved too."

"Ahahah! I can't blame you for that, sonny. However, High Highness figured that a little more helping hand would make the development much easier." E. Gadd chuckled.

"Right. Some of us who took the time had the construction site to be located on the Kingdom of Liberl's Valleria Lakeshore. By using one of Ouroboros old secret base." Kokonoe nodded

"You're referring to the research facility that the Faceless constructed during the incident in Liberl. I heard that after the dust settled, it was handed over to ZCF to manage." Duvalie recalled

"Sounds to me Professor Russel and the others used it for other kind of research." Tails mused.

"So it's not just Gwyn, Schmidt pitched in, but also Professor Russel guy, Kokonoe, E. Gadd, Dr. Light, Dr. Pietro, also the Queen of Liberl?" Sonic scratch his ear.

"Whereas Cassius and the crown princess were none the wiser." Sara said.

"And that's when you use the classic tactics to fool your enemies, you got to fool your friends too." Morgan nodded

"As for funding, in addition to His Highness Olivert, Gwyn, Professor E. Gadd, Kagura, Princess Peach, Princess Daisy, certain Pokemon Champions from several Pokemon regions and his Majesty Eugent also contributed from their personal holdings. But perhaps the most unexpected benefactors was Father and Marquis Rogner." Patrick said.

"Indeed." Jusis nodded. "Quite aa cunning play by those two. I imagine that keeping this from the Albareas was all in the name of avoiding the eye of the Intelligence Division."

Musse nodded as well. "Yes. The same with the Cayennes, I'm sure. And so, your new set of 'wings' were completed, independently of both the government and the Weissland Army."

"When I said we were preparing for our original wings to be 'turn away,' I only expected they'd be commandeered by the government." Olivert said. "To be perfectly frank, the thought that they would be physically torn apart never even crossed my mind. Haha!"

Scherazard sighed. "This isn't a laughing matter, for the record."

"Indeed. Just being alive is reason enough to give thanks to Aidios, and certain other figures who rescued you in perfect condition." Muller said

"And so who are the other people who rescue you? I imagine one of them is Blueblanc?" Levi asked

"Not just Bleublanc, but Mewtwo and Celebi as well." Olivert smiled

"Mewtwo and Celebi!?" Shez turn to him along with everyone else who see Mewtwo folding his arm as he was leaning on the wall.

"Allow me to explain." Mewtwo said. "Celebi foresaw what will happen to the Courageous. She informed me immediately. When that day happened. I teleported my way in after the explosion began."

(BGM paused)

---

Flashback...

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Tragedy)

The Courageous was covered in an explosion as the system was ringing an alarm.

"This is-!" Toval gasped.

"I underestimated them..." Olivert muttered. "Schera. I'm sorry..."

"Sorry Ein. Looks like I missed up..."

Victor pick off his hat from his head. "Goddess... Please protect my daughter..."

(BGM paused)

"You have fifteen seconds until the hull collapses." George's recorded voice said. "So before then, I will offer you one final wager. A gravitational barrier will appear on the bridge for exactly twenty four seconds. Let's see if you can come back from this."

(Resuming Tragedy)

"Olivert!" A voice yelled as Mewtwo appeared over them.

"Mewtwo!?" Olivert exclaimed as the gravitational barrier activated.

"There's no time to talk. Come, I'm getting you out of here to a safe place!" Mewtwo said as his eyes glow white and then teleported Olivert, Victor, Toval and the crew away

---

Outside...

The Courageous then exploded and one of the cliffs was Bleublanc along with Sableye.

"Was I a moment too late?" Bleublanc wondered.

"No. You're not." Mewtwo said as he teleported behind him along with Olivert and his crew.

"Ah if it isn't Mewtwo! What brings you here? And my rival and crew as well?"

"I could ask you the same thing. However, if you're here to rescue Olivert, then come with me." He said as he teleported himself, Olivert, the crew, Bleublanc and Sabeye elsewhere.

(BGM ended)

---

End of flashback...

(Resuming - Crimson Flash Shadow -Radiant Wings-)

"Afterward, I teleported Olivert, his crew and Bleublanc to safe haven I know in Kanto for them to recover both physically and mentally." Mewtwo finished

"Celebi is the Time-traveling Pokemon right? Oh, I'm so grateful for that." Scherazard sigh of relief

"Indeed. We owe you and Celebi a debt of gratitude." Olivert nodded

"And that would explain why they couldn't find the bodies." Link mused.

"However, there was something amiss." Mewtwo sighed. "I'm not sure how, but after teleported with Blueblanc and his Sableye away... I suddenly felt a distorting in my teleportation. By the time we arrived at the safe haven, the Viscount suddenly vanished. I suspected someone must have interfered with my teleportation. So it was that jester, Dimentio doing. However, I don't think he notice me teleporting everyone away, but his goal was to teleport the Viscount. Regardless, after that happened, Olivert rested for awhile until he requested me to teleport to Liberl in a certain place and keep his and the entire crew hidden."

"So that explains why you suddenly vanished on us." Palutena mused.

"Still. I owe you my debt of gratitude Mewtwo." Laura said in bow. "Not only you rescue His Highness, Toval and the crew of the Courageous, but also my father as well. Therefore I swear to find a way to repay you for rescuing my father."

"She's right. The Imperial family is in your debt for rescuing Olivert. I think everyone here agrees." Alfin smiled.

"I don't need your gratitude. But Prince Olivert is a friend." Mewtwo said. "However, that jester somehow teleported the viscount from my clutches and have placed the curse of Erebonia on him and give him a role."

"Right. Which means we will face another difficult trial ahead of us." Felix sighed

"Heh. I'm inclined to agree." Laura nodded

"It'd be prudent for us to account for every contingency. There's also the promise we made with Lloyd, Estelle, and the others." Rean said.

"You're right. We can't let them down." Levi nodded. "Let's not forget about Rose as well. Do you remember yesterday? She said she wanted us to visit the Luna Shrine back in Laka Gala. Though I don't understand why she would be so secretive."

"If it involves the Rivaltires, though, the only thing to do is go and check it out, right?" Crow asked

"We thought the Luna Shrine was a dead end, but there was more to it after all." Altina said.

"This will be a trial for the entirety of Class VII. I'm reminded of our adventures in the Old Schoolhouse two years ago."

"You mean where everyone met Valimar?" Venti asked

"Yeah, and then that crazy-go-nuts corridor appeared at the end." Sara added

"Reverie Corridor..." Emma hummed. "Knowing what we know now, I think that place is yet another sort of shrine. I don't know what my grandmother's intentions are, but we should prepare ourselves for anything."

"For cryin' out loud, why am I...?" Celine complained "I'm not even part of Class VII."

"You say that, but you've been with us since the moment we first heard your voice." Levi shotback

"Yeah. Besides, we all know you love it." Luka replied.

"Don't try to hide it." Hamsuke added

"Not to mention this'll be the first time we've seen your human form since the Black Workshop." Fie smirked

"Ah, to gaze upon both Celine's lovely figure and the reflection pool in the same day- what fortuitous timing!" Olivert said. "Once everyone's done their little tour around the Courageous II, we can head for Lake Gala."

"It would probably be wise to land out on the water, to put a little distance between ourselves and Milsante." Mueller added. "Learning to switch between the silent navigation and optical camouflage modes is going to be critical here."

"Understood!" Tita nodded

Angelica chuckled. "Things are startin' to heat up."

"Next, our plan is to head ashore, with each group making their approach from the target locations." Patrick said.

"Fortunately, Estelle, Lloyd and the others are already a step ahead in gathering Intel, including the one you asked for, Levi." Schera added. "I'm sure they'll get a hit on something useful by the time you get out."

"Thanks you." Levi smiled

"We'll be expecting good news, guys." Toval said. "But seriously though, take care of yourselves out there."

"Right. That goes for you, too." Rean replied.

"It means so much to know you've got our backs!" Juna smiled

"Class VII, it's time to make sure your preparations are set. We'll need every pair of hands we can get around, so those of you in a position to pitch in, please do so."

"Absolutely, Instructor." Musse giggled.

"Make sense. Though has chance much, even with the branch campus here in this huge ship. Not as big as the Halberd though."

"That reminds me. Have any of you seen Aether?" Levi asked. "We still need to talk to him about that other topic."

"I think he must be in his room, but I haven't seen him left the room yet." Olivert said.

"Is it me or has he been avoiding us lately? He wasn't like this yesterday." Scherzard remark.

"I can tell something is wailing on his mind. It's best to leave him for now. I'm sure once he's out of his room, you can discuss what you have in mind with him." Muller said.

"I guess it can't be helped, then. Oh, that reminds me. Professor Kokonoe also mentioned something about wanting to give Levi and the New Class VII something on the Hanger."

"Right. This is something you need on your journey. It will without question aid you in battle. I'll be heading there. Once you got everyone, I'll show it to you." Kokonoe said.

"All right then, in that case, why don't we go now and you can show it to us." Levi said.

"Okay, follow me to the Hanger." Kokonoe said as she took off and Rean, Levi and New Class VII follow her.

As they arrived at the Hanger, via the Elevator, they begin to head to where the Divine Knights and Soldots are.

"This floor contains the hold and the workshop. It's without question we'll be spending a lot of time here." Rean said

"You're right about that. Nothing change, except for the light color then that of the Halbard." Levi agreed.

"Welp, here we are." Kokonoe said as they stop and arrived.

"Um... Where the surprise?" Juna look around.

Venti then notice it first. "Huh?! Our Soldots!" He pointed and now the others look surprised too.

As Venti pointed out, everyone spotted their Soldots were replaced with some fresh newer ones. Juna's Soldots color is refined and a little brighter than her Drakken II with reinforced armor that more durable as well. The visor is replaced with blue. The Green glowing parts are replaced with blue glowing parts.

The same replied to Kurt's Spiegel S. However. His is change to light blue while the glowing green parts is replaced with... well blue, but you can see the differences. Anyway, the horn-shape helmets with clear visors also replaced with blue but the hone-shape helmets look more refined along with the armor, and more sturdy too.

Altina's Goliath Noa is replaced with a mixture of black and silver as the visors are blue. Its armor is enchanted like the other armor. The machine gun cannon on the right shoulder & two missile launchers on the left shoulder were also refined.

Venti's Kestrel Beta color change from dark green to Emerald Green as like the others. Look more refined and sturdier. The visor's blue color change to sky blue color. The same applies to the blue light parts.

Musse's Kestrel Beta color green change to Olive Green to match with her hair. Just like Venti's her Soldots armor is also refined and sturdier. The visor color of blue change to Sky blue along with the glowing blue part on it's body.

Ash's red Hector MK. II also refined both in armor and color. The red is light red and the green visor change to blow.

Last but not least. Levi's Paladin Soldot also gotten a change as well. The Armor is has was refined. Its a mixture of Silver and blue also refined as the green visor is change to blue as well, along with the green glowing parts.

Each Soldots has the Branch Campus's Emblem on their usual area like the other Soldots.

"Whoa! Look at the Soldots! It look completely brand new!" Juna exclaimed

"That's because they are new." Kokonoe said

"What?" Kurt turn to her.

"The previous Soldots you guys usually use has been replaced with these original Soldots."

"Hold up! You replace our Soldots? Since when?" Ash asked.

"Shut the hell up and let me finish!" Kokonoe snarl. "Anyway, these soldots I had replace are far different than Panzer Soldots and Zauber Soldots. The Paladin Soldots. Now you can ask questions."

"Okay. The Paladin Soldots..." Levi paused. "Wait... does that mean you're the one who created my Soldot?"

"That's right. It was me."

"So you're the acquainted Principal Le Quin was talking about." Rean said.

"Right. The Panzer Soldots piqued my interest at the time. I met Aurelia when I had Tager out for some missions I had him do a few months ago. I think it was when Levi join the Branch campus as the Class Assistant. She ask me to create a unique soldot for Levi to pilot. Since it piqued my interest. I agree to help her out. The tricky part is how to get it in sync with Levi's power, or magic. I have been reviewing the combat data provided for me by Aurelia provided for me with her Soldot. She gave me pretty useful data and their limits. As such. I been developing a soldot that surpasses that of the predecessors and rivals the Kector and Kestrel units. After collecting more combat data from your students. I finished creating the prototype that I sent to Levi for him to collect combat data."

"Wait, the Paladin I use was the prototype?" Levi asked.

"Also, since when did you collect data on us?" Juna also asked.

"For Juna's question. The first day of school. For Levi's question. Yes." Kokonoe answered. "Each and every one of you provided me some sufficient data. Thanks to the data I collected from Levi, I was able to create the perfect Paladin for you guys. During that time while I was investigating the Black Workshop since they had the nerve to hack into my system, I had the Bright family and the SSS investigate some activities related to the Black Workshop. And eventually, found the Black Workshop's whereabouts. After taking their data on the Zauber Soldots, combat shells, Magic Knights, well all of their data before I had it blow up and format their system, I have been developing the counterparts to the Zauber Soldots. The Paladin Soldots. Just like the prototype, it's a force field to block most attacks and an anti-hacker system that rivals that of Ouroboros Astral Code. And Wifi of course. It has a buff mechanism like those piece of shit Zauber Sodlots uses."

"What?!" Rean gasped. "So the Soldots you build are just like the Magic Knights?!"

"Yes, and no. Unlike the Zauber Soldots, they eat away the mind of their users and was built for the Great Twilight and the curse. While the Paladin Soldots are its counterpart. It only buffs you with a unique mechanism I built. With these Soldots I'm giving you, you can not only use magical power to fire magic but also imbue magic into your weapons. An enhancement you can say. They're my versions of successors to the Panzer Soldots with built-in-state of the Art Panzer Sodlots technique. Think of them as a massive upgrade to your previous Soldots. That includes their mobility and versatility to make them more flexible and sync with your movement."

"Whoa..." Kurt said in awe.

"Damn! So these babies are going to be our Soldots for us to use, huh?" Ash asked

"My, my, Professor. I don't know what to say but thank you~." Musse giggled.

"Don't get the wrong idea. I'm only doing this because I want this Great Twilight farce to end." Kokonoe fold her arms. "I also upgraded your weapons as well do they'll be doing more than what you usually do. That include you, Levi. Thanks to the data you provided and imbuing your power into the Paladin. You can also use your magic on your Soldot."

"Really? How did you pull that off?" Levi asked.

"It's the same thing with magic casting. The same applies to you New Class VII. Hope onto your Soldots and we can begin your first time through a battle simulation that I had install."

"Really?! Cool!" Juna said as she ran to her Soldot.

"Oh, Altina. Since your fighting style is unique. I was told you can wield a Goliath Noa well. But for it to match your style, I added a few surprises." Kokonoe told her.

"Oh. I see. Understood." Altina nodded and rush toward her personal Paladin Goliath.

"Seriously?!" Rean heard a voice as he turned and see Alisa, Qwyn, Ferris, Ludwig, and Kamek come out of the elevator. "That was Bowser's new Koopa Cruiser and it's over 400 arge?!"

"That's right. It's built with a state-of-the-art system to act as a base of operation." Lugwig nodded. "I oversee the product to make sure it is superior then Ouoboro's remodel Glorious and Atlas technology and even built-in anti-hacker system against Ouorboros Astral Code and our current technology system. The Shroobs back then proven very helpful with improving our technology back then."

"What about that portal? And the Aions?"

"The Portal technology was something I have been working on." Kamek answered. "It was one of the list of technology projects we were establishing but we halted it because of the Black Workshop, Ouroboros with their Astral Code, and the Great Twilight. So we have to build a system that acts as their counterparts against Ouroboros Astral Code. After we finally established, we been resuming the portal projects."

"As for the Aions. When Fawful hacked into Ouroboros Thirteen Factories and robbed them of their data, he had been building his own version of Aions through our castle facility when he took it over during the Blob Pandemic. After he leave the castle, he must either forgot to delete the data or leave if there on purpose after if he achieves his master plan." Ludwig continued. "After Noel investigated our castle and discovered our facility, he took back all the data Fawful took from the society and even deleted and double-checked our backup system. However, Neither Fawful and Noel never expected the data was also sent to my personal network which was synced into the castle's current network. Thus, leaving their blueprints and data on their Archaisns and Aions."

"My, My, I don't know if I should be impressive or frightening of how Bowser's Nation technology continue to reveal it's formidable military." Gwyn said.

"Indeed. I just hope we don't have any invasion from them." Ferris agreed.

"And yet, it still pales in comparison to Dr. Eggman unfortunately." Ludwig muttered

"Hey there, everyone." Rean greeted as he join in. "What are you guys talking about?"

"Oh we're taking about that portal system Bowser's military uses, the Aions they deployed against Ouorboros and even Bowser's new Koopa Cruiser." Alisa answered. "Honestly, I'm overwhelmed how Bowser possess such military power and technology."

"I don't blame you. But if I know Bowser, he'll probably use that technology just to kidnap Princess Peach and make a quick getaway."

"Yeah I have a good feeling he would do that."

"Nyehehe! He would!" Kamek laugh.

"So what about you, Rean? Just making sure the ship's equipment is all in order?" Alisa asked

"Yeah, not just getting ready to head out to the Luna Shrine, but also come down here for Kokonoe's new Paladin Soldots she's giving to Levi and new Class VII."

"Wait, what's this about new Soldots and Paladin?" Alisa blink and turn to the Soldots and jawdropped. "What the heck!?" Then she rushed over.

"And there she goes." Rean sweatdrop with a smile before turning to Gwyn. "Gwyn... I know I've said this before, but great work on the Courageous II operations. And Feris, it sounds like you, Patrick and the others helped quite a bit."

Ferris giggled. "Well, only a little."

Gwyn chuckled. "And I was just acting as a representative for our sponsors. Handling Schmidt's unreasonable demands is exhausting work."

"R-Right." Rean nervous smile. "So Ludwig, Kamek, I know I said this as well, but I said this before but thanks for that rescue yesterday. It's great to have you guys on board with us."

"The flattery is our Rean. Like we said yesterday, we and Musse predicted something like this world would happen, so we must take a precaution against Ouorboros' little skirmish with Cedric taking the lead." Kamek said. "We had the Aions and the new Koopa Cruiser build for that purpose."

"Speaking off, how many arge is the Koopa Cruiser? It certainly wasn't... come to think of it, how many arge was the last one in?" Rean wondered.

"94." Kamek and Ludwig answered.

"And the new Koopa Cruiser is 400 arges." Ludwig answered

"4-400!?" Rean gasped.

"Yes. With Eggman involve, he will be one challenging opponent to deal with." Kamek nodded.

"Right. Eggman technology surpasses that of Atlas and even Ouroboros perhaps since they been upgrading engineering skills." Ferris nodded.

"Your right. Dr. Eggman is someone we need to be careful since he's very calculated individual in science, engineering, and schemes." Rean agreed "So it looks like you'll be on the ship for the time bring, Qwyn. But Ferris, you said that you'll be heading down?"

"Yes. I'm going back to Ordis. I need to speak with my brother about something. We're nearing the final act, so I'd like to give my best to Governor Regnitz as well. I hope you, Alisa and Class VII accomplish what you must do first."

"Of course, we will." Rean nodded.

---

In the third floor...

"Really?" Laura mused. "You even have a built in battle simulation like in Radiant Garden?" Laura asked

"Yep. We had this prepared before the Great Twilight. But we had it keep under wrapped because of the Black Workshop and the Great Twilight." Kirito nodded. "I wanted to bring something from my world into this world. This battle simulation might help out with some training in all manners."

"Not a bad idea, Kirito. We'll definitely put it to good use." Sylvain said.

"Indeed. But I doubt there be something challenging." Duvalie said.

"Oh you'll be surprise of how wrong you can be with the levels we have installed." Kirito chuckled.

"Hmm. I must admit, I'm curious. If there are formidable monster I can face, it will at least give me a good workout." Felix said.

"The previous Couragous also had substantial facilities, but there certainly wasn't an area quite as spacious as this available." Laura mused.

Duvalie hummed. "I remember the Young Lord also created his own personal training ground with level difficulty with the thirteen factories improvement two years ago. I imagine he's working on a new level to further heighten his skill. Speaking off, Kirito. I heard that you even bested the Young Lord in Pi'illo Island. I must admit, I'm surprised. I wish to see how you bested him. Would you do me the honor and facing me?"

"Ahaha... I get the feeling you're mad about me beating him." Kirito sweatdrop.

"Oh heard about it from Rean too. I must admit. I'm curious." Laura said.

"Look, looks like you got the ladies attention Kirito." Sylvain chuckled.

"Looks like your luck has gone bad to worst as usual." Felix said

"Hey, what do you mean by that?!" Kirito exclaimed

---

In the Shop...

"I had no idea you would be here Moogle!" Sora said. "You as well, Anna."

"Sorry to say, but this is the first time we met." Anna said.

"Huh? But I remember you from Pi'illo Island."

"That would be her sister Kupo." Moogle said.

"Wait. Her sister?" Donald asked

"Hehe. That's right. The merchant you met was my sister." Anna giggled

"Oh! I didn't know Anna has a twin sister! I'm sorry. So who are you?" Sora asked

"I'm Anna. Nice to meet you."

"Huh? Wait... your Anna... and your sister name is Anna?" Sora said, wrapping his head about this with Donald and Goofy.

"Haha. Anna came from a pretty interesting family." Lucina said as she walk in.

"Oh hey Lucina. What brings you here?" Goofy asked.

"Oh I was just go visit the shops to see if there are any cute things I could buy. I wasn't expecting Anna would be here. Well, her sister, Anna."

"Oh, you must be Lucina I heard from Anna from Ylisse! You're looking for cute things right? In that case, I got just the thing for you."

"Oi! Hold on a minute there." Then Jinjo enter the chat. "Just so you know! That's my counter you're in! Your Counter is right next door!"

"No it's not. This my stand!" Anna said.

"Nuh uh!"

"Uh ha!"

Lucina, Sora, Donald, Goofy and Moogle sweatdrop.

"Welp. Looks like the business rivals is at it again, kupo." Moogle sighed as Cerburus agreed with a bark.

---

With Sara...

"Ahh! It's good to have all my girlfriends here under one room again!" Sara chuckled with a jug of booze.

"Haha! Agree, girlfriend. Sorry we didn't get to talk much with you back at that other ship yesterday." Cana said

"Indeed. Yesterday was quite a dangerous situation. I thought we would be done for." Manuela sighed.

"Yeah. It was one hell of a battle." Sara nodded.

"So Sara. Is everything going well for you, even after all that crap happen yesterday?" Cana asked

"Oh yeah. I'm glad not only I get to see my girls again, but also get to introduce you to Scharzard."

"Oh yes. She's a fine woman. I swear, it's like you know so many beautiful woman who enjoy a nice drink." Manuela giggled.

"Seriously, Sara. What's your secret? Unless you're a les." Cana grinned

"Okay back up! You know I'm not that girl of gal like Angelica!" Sara exclaimed as she blushed.

"Haha. I'm just messing with you. Anyway, do you're heading out to that whatever that place is call soon right?"

"Yep. I might well prepare before that thing happened." Sara nodded.

"But are you sure you should be thinking right now?" Manuela asked

"A little drink won't be a problem. Come on. Let's have a nice drink. I won't go a bit overboard." Sara said as they clink their jugs.

---

With Altina...

As Altina was in her simulation to practice her new Paladin soldot.

"Hey, Black Rabbit. There's something I need you to come with me." Kokonoe screen appeared and told her.

"Huh? Understood." Altina said. "Everyone, I'll be off for now."

"Okay, Allie. Be sure to come back so we can practice!" Juna smiled as Altina nodded and sign off

Altina open her Paladin Soldot hatch and hop off and approach Kokonoe.

"Good. This won't take long." Kokonoe walk toward the room as Altina follow where she see a black sphere in a container floating. "Okay. Summon your combat shell?"

"May I ask why?" Altina asked

"Your combat shell needs a massive upgrade."

"Huh? An Upgrade? How?"

"Just summon your black doll already and follow my instructions." Kokonoe answered, looking impatient.

Altina let out a small pout. 'She's certain like Professor Schmidt.' "Claiomh Solais." Then her combat shell appeared.

"Now have it approach it and reach out its hand." Kokonoe ordered.

"Okay...? Claiomh Solais." Altina said as Claiomh Solais approached it and then it forwarded its blade arm toward the sphere and both black sphere and Claiomh Solais glowed. "Huh? What's going on?" she asked as particles from Claiomh Solais begin to enter the black sphere until a room light up a bit, covering Altina and Kokonoe's eyes until it faded and Claiomh Solais was no where to be seen. "Claiomh Solais?" Altina look around, looking concerned. "Claiomh Solais!" Then Claiomh Solais appeared, responding to her call with the same language it said. "Oh, thank goodness!"

"Hmm, look like it work." Kokonoe said.

"Huh? What's this about?" Altina asked

"I already told you, an upgrade. Do you have cotton in your ears or something?"

"Hmph. Well excuse me. Now explain about this "upgrade."

"Fine, fine. I build you a new combat shell to replace your old one."

"What? But... Claiomh Solais look the same. Wait, what do you mean replace?!"

"Quit your complaining. When I said replace, I mean transferred."

"Huh?"

"After I took the data related to Combat Shells, I begin to develop my own versions and thus gave it a few more upgrade functions. Better then what the original. In order words, I gave it a new body. Claiomh Solais may appear the same and its personality. But it gain a new body. While in said body, you can still do what you usually do, but with some new mechanism in place. You can feel it don't you?" Kokonoe asked

"Oh... Come to think of it. Claiomh Solais does feel different... in a sense." Altina said

"Good. Now have it form into a fist with its blade arm."

"What? How-"

"Just do it!"

"Hmph!" Altina pouted with a tick on her forehead as Claiomh Solais forward its blade arm and it suddenly form into a fist. "Ah!?"

"Now, have it check out its new function and form." Kokonoe ordered as Claiomh Solais form change into a cannon.

Then Claomh Solais change into a giant hand, then change to a very large cannon, then change into a Square shape, a plate, a sphere, Its blade form which nothing changes, Drill hammer form, Hammer form, Axe form, Lance form, rocket launchers, and lastly Arcadias Gear before changing back to it's original form.

"Un...Incredible...!" Altina gasped. "What an incredible upgrade... And you use the data from the Black Workshop."

"Yep. Like I said. Your style is unique when you and that combat shell just swinging around. So I'm giving it a new body where it can do more than just swing its arm and slashing and transform in its system. You can still the same function you're used to and I upgraded it's durability. So you better make good use for this new one."

Altina smiled and nodded. "Understood!" She said as Claiomh Solais respond.

---

With Rean...

"This looks like the men's bathing area." Rean look at the sign. 'The previous COURAGEOUS only had showers... Guess this is just one benefit of a larger ship. And we have the trial at the Luna Shrine, we're the reflecting pool is. I'd probably better go ahead and wash up now. His Highness already gave me permission to use it, so I might as well head in, right?' He thought as he go in. "Whoa, there's separate facilities for women and men, and they really went all out on the changing area. Then again, the Halbard did the same. All right, Then-"

"Oh, hey Rean." Levi's voice said as Rean turn and see Levi, Machias, Elliot, Mario, Link, Kirby, Bowser, Wario, and Byleth.

"Hey guys." Rean greeted as he laugh. "I guess we all had the same idea."

"Yeah, we're just starting to get a handle on the ship's functions, so it seems like a good time to go wash up." Machias explains.

"Mind if we join you? It does seem pretty spacious, after all." Elliot asked.

"Yeah, of course. Wanna head in, then?" Rean suggest.

"Yep. Let's go in, shall we?" Levi smiled.

(BGM paused)

(Trails of Cold Steel III ost - Little Rain)

And so they begin to put on the towels and then we enter the baths. It has a large space and a nice view of the clouds.

"Wow. It's pretty nice." Levi smiled.

"Yeah, this is pretty amazing." Rean nodded

"Wow, this is like a full-scale bathhouse." Elliot smiled.

"It's almost too lavish. Could it even get any more luxurious than this?" Machias asked.

"Hmm... good question. But what's the harm?" Levi shrug.

"Professor Schmidt and the others design this ship, right?" Byleth asked

"Yep. They certainly know how to make a good ship." Mario nodded

"Please, this ship couldn't possibly be any better than my Koopa Cruiser." Bowser grumbled.

"Isn't your ship like a giant?" Link sweatdrop.

"And what do you call, Eggman?"

"Touche."

"Poyo?" Kirby tilt his head.

"Anyway, it's good they created a lovely ship even when we're still in developing our in Fodlan." Byleth said. "The nice bath is perfect. I'm glad they have something like this as well in the Halbert. Nothing is better then relaxing both body and mind."

"Him and Professor Russell from Liberl. It seems he was one of Professor Epstein's main disciples." Rean answered "This may have been one or his suggestions, since he seems to be pretty well acquainted with His Highness."

"I see we weren't the first to come up with this idea." Crow's voice called out and they turn around and see him, Shez, Kazuha, Jusis, and Gaius.

"Oh hey, Crow, Gauis, Jusis, Shez and Kazuha. You want to try the bath too?" Mario asked.

"Of course. It looks like we're all of one mind." Gaius smiled.

"It's not like there's isn't enough room for all of us to squeeze in." Crow stated. "And our first bath on the ship should be a bonding experience, right?"

"Amend brother." Levi chuckled.

And then they begin to sit down on the warm bath and then admire the scene and then see the window of the sky.

"Beyond the skies… How far we've come…" Gaius smiled.

"We came a long way. It was a long and struggle road." Levi answered as he let out a of relief.

"Yes, it foes feel like we've come very far." Jusis nodded.

"I know what you mean." Elliot smiled.

Machias chuckled. "Kind of a surprise to see everyone here like this." Machias nodded.

"Yeah. It's just like the old days back at the Civil War." I nodded. "We go into adventure, then finding out schoolmates all over Erebonia and now we're all gathered in one place as we traveled."

"You're right." Rean nodded as he smiled. "And then we headed back to the Mushroom Kingdom and first time exploring the world outside our world atmosphere and see the stars in the sky."

Mario let out a sigh of satisfaction "It feels so long... and yet it's like a distant memory."

"Poyooo..." Kirby said in agreement.

"Haha... It was only two years ago and yet it felt so long since everyone was together." Byleth smiled

"Back then, we didn't have Crow with us. He missed out a lot." Rean chuckled.

"For cryin' out loud… Why the hell are ya gettin' so mushy?" Crow asked "I mean, we're on a brand-new, cutting-edge ship here! You gotta get more excited, man! And while were here, let's get talking! The filthier, the better! It's time to air out your dirtiest jokes and fetishes!"

"Bwahaha! He's got a point you know." Wario agreed.

"Agreed. Since when are you all going soft by being sentimental?" Bowser asked.

"Um... Sounds like a lot of stuff going on before I came along, huh?" Shez asked

"You wouldn't know the half of it." Kazuha chuckled. "Although I rather not participate in something... dirty in Crow's suggestion."

"Come on, Crow… we're not students anymore." Rean replied.

"So what? That doesn't mean we can't talk about some adult stuff. I mean we're all mean here." Crow pointed out.

"Yeah, but what do you make a Kirby?" Mario turn to him.

"Poyo!" Kirby cheered

"What about the puff ball?" Crow asked.

"Meta Knight mention he was a baby star warrior or something among those lines." Elliot said.

"Okay, he may be adorable but there's way he's a child... right? Kirby, are old are ya?"

"Poyo!" Kirby raised his adorable arms with a cute smile.

"There you have it! He's twenty years old!" Crow grinned.

"How could you possible think he's twenty in human age?" Machias sweatdrop.

"Yeah, I'm pretty sure he said he's doesn't know." Levi sweatdrop.

"And how would you know that?" Byleth asked.

"Not sure. Call it a gut feeling."

"Okay, are we gonna talk about something juicy or what?" Wario asked.

"Yeah! So which one of ya have some good dirty stuff? I mean, other than Shez and Kazuha always banging each other." Crow grinned

"Okay, whoa! Where did that come from!" Shez yelled as he and Kauzha blushed.

"Oh trust me. It's clearly obvious to you too. I mean the dates and all."

"T-That's just proper romance isn't it?" Kazuha asked while blushing.

Gaius sweatdrop "Crow, it's one thing to talk about someone's romance life, the other is about their sex life which clearly isn't a dignified conversation."

"Yeah, what if a girl was sitting nearby and overheard you say something like that?!" Machias stated

"Well, I can add a soundproof barrier so we can talk about it." Levi suggested

"And problem solve." Crow smirked. "Levi, you are my problem solver for this case."

"Riiiight."

"Hmph. But would respectful behavior be in character for any of us?" Jusis asked.

"I'm just gonna take in the scenery and enjoy the water." Rean nodded.

"Same, same. Let's kick back and enjoy, shall we?" Levi smiled.

"Aww come on, don't be so a buzzkill." Crow sighed until they all heard a sound of the intercom activated.

"To all passengers, we will soon be concluding our orientation flight, and chartering a course to the Luna Shrine, we'll be landing on Lake Gala in 30 minutes." Olivert announced.

"Ah, what good timing. You guys ready to head to the bridge?" Rean asked

"Okay hold up! We just got here and we barely even started!" Crow complained.

(BGM ended)

---

Later...

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Twilight Green Passage)

The Courageous II landed on the waters of Lake Gala. Emma, Altina called out their Psychic Pokemon to use Phychic to bring them toward the entrance to the Spirit Shrine.

"Here we are at the Luna Shrine again." Juna said.

"Yes. But it feels different this time." Kurt added.

"Yeah. Look at that glow." Venti see the blue aura around the Shrine.

"Rose did say that the spirit veins are becoming more active, so perhaps that's why." Altina reminded.

"Considering what's going on, I say so." Levi nodded

"Now that I can sense mana, i'm starting to see what you mean." Machias sighed

"Feels like it's still being contained inside the shrine, though." Gaius said.

Emma nodded. "That makes sense. This is the only shrine that's been overseen by the wandering witches for generations. My mother came here to purify its waters countless times throughout her life. Or so I've heard."

"Oh, right. I did hear something like that." Rean respond.

"You never really knew your mother, right?" Fie asked

"I've heard stories that she was a witch of rare and superb talent." Celine said. "But all this happened before I was born, so stories are all I have to go on."

Emma nodded. "I was really little when she passed away, so I don't remember much about her. But Grandmother told me all about this Shrine. Deep within, beyond the altar, we'll find the reflecting pool. Gazing into it should light our way."

"Well, who doesn't love a conveniently omniscient magical artifact?" Crow asked.

"Some of us apparently." Levi replied. "But joking aside, let's be ready for what's waiting inside."

"Just a minute." Rean said as he raised his hand. "Come, Valimar!" And summon Valimar near the Shrine.

"Let me guess. You want everyone in Class VII together like this?" Levi asked

Rean nodded. "Yeah. And none of us knows what's going to happen, so it pays to be prepared. I already discussed this with His Highness, Mint and the others."

"Hehe. You're right." Levi smiled "All right... Let's get going."

"Hey, Celine, aren't you going to change into human form?" Fie asked

"D-Don't trust me! That can wait until after we talk to Rose." Celine protest.

"Yeah, except you don't want to, do you?" Venti grinned

"Shut your trap, Bard!"

(BGM ended)

And then everyone begin to head into the Shrine as watching from the distance was Aether.

"Aether... are you sure we should do this?" Paimon asked, looking sad.

"Yeah..." Aether nodded, giving a serious look. He turn and enter the Couragous and enter the bridge. "Prince Olivert."

"Ah, hello Aether! Hm? Why the serious look." Olivert asked

"When Class VII finishes their trial. Can you give them this letter?" Aether pull out a letter.

"Of course but... what's this letter about?"

"Let's just say the next answers will be there." Aether place his hand over his chest. "Please... give them the letter after they discover the truth."

Olivert blink. "Of course, but... Aether what's this about?"

"I can't tell you. But there's a promise I must keep. Please don't open the letter." He said as he begin to leave with Paimon to the deck.

Then Aether activated a teleportation circle and teleported himself and Paimon out of there.

Xehanort watch from the distance. "As expected that you would leave everyone here and return to her side, Aether." Xehanort then turn to the Shrine. "But at least they'll finally learn the truth... the Black Truth that has been hidden in the shadows of history."

---

In the Luna Shrine...

(Mario & Luigi: Dream Team ost - Mysteries of the Cave)

"Thee crystals are light up just like back in the Sol Shrine." Venti said as they walk down.

"This kinda reminds me of where we fought Crow." Elliot replied.

"Yeah, lookin' around, the place does seem pretty familiar." Crow nodded

"We may not need to worry about a Rivalry this time, but…" Emma trailed off.

"Am I really the only one on edge about this trial Rose has lined up for us?" Celine sighed

"Probably." Levi answered.

They soon reached the altar part where they see a large portal appear in the center of the room

"Huh? That wasn't there before." Levi remark "And there's that crest again... The one back in the Old Schoolhouse, the Spirit Shrines and the Ironblood's eyes."

"It seems to have some sort of connection to either the Gnomes or the Great One..." Alisa added

"What about the witches?" Crow asked.

"Them, too." Emma replied. "This crest was used by both the Gnomes and the witches until about 900 years ago. But the Hexen Clan's lost any knowledge regarding its true meaning and uses by now. The only one who does know is the Golden Wanderer."

"And yet, after that vision... It's possible that Aether may be the Golden Wanderer himself... However... If he existed 900 years ago... is he an Immortal? Hopefully, we can uncover more details about that as we continue with our investigations." Altina said.

"Correct. All you must do is continue to move forward." Roselia's voice replied.

"Oh good, you're here already. Got anything new to share with the rest of us?" Levi asked.

"Perhaps. But I have been far too busy with my own preparations. Now hurry along inside. And...Celine? You may wish to steel yourself."

"Well, I guess that's as good as a sign as any. Shall we?" Machias asked

"Let's go." Fie nodded

"H-Hey!" Celine yelled. "I made a valid point, you can't just leave us hanging like that!"

"Celine, just shut up and enter." Luke said, causing Celine to grumbled as they go into the portal.

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Perfect Stage)

As they all made it to the other side, they all witness something unexpected. They see a beautiful water-themed dungeon where they see a transparent moon above them with water wavelength skies. Waterfalls in front and in pouring from the platforms underneath.

"Wow...this place is beautiful." Levi replied.

"We must be deep inside the Luna Shrine now." Musse said. "Or perhaps, it'd be more accurate to say we've reached its very core."

Emma nodded. "Correct. It's a mystical space outside of our dimension."

"It's a little different from the Spirit Shinres during the civil war." Fie recalled.

"It's similar to that of the Reverie Corridor and the Dark Dragon's sanctuary. And beyond this core is Roselia, waiting for us." Levi nodded

"Mya?!" Celine panicked as her body is glowing. "Wh-What in the- why am I- MEEYAAAAAAAAH!" Then Celine transform into her human form.

"Oh wow." Juna clapped

"That was a nifty trick." Sara added

"Nice one, catface." Ash smirked

"Who are you calling 'catface' pudding head!?" Celine growled. "Anyway, I didn't do anything! I-It just happened on its own!"

"I advised you to steel yourself for a reason. The Luna Sanctuary is a hallowed ground that unveils the truth." Roselia's voice said but her voice was a mature as a magic circle appeared in front of them and appeared was Roselia in her adult appearance, but in astral form.

"Rose? You're back in your adult form?" Levi asked.

Rean and the others look shocked.

"What the...!?" Mahcias exclaimed

"Oh right. I forgot you guys haven't seen her adult form. This is what Roselia used to look like." Levi scratched his hair. "But if you're able to maintain that form... that means the mana around here is overflowing?"

"Indeed. The energies in this sacred realm allow me to assume my original form with ease." Roselia replied. "And perhaps, even my true form."

"Huh?" Celine title her head?

"You...have another form?" Emma asked.

Roselia turn around. "In the depths of the shrine sits the reflecting pool, a holy relic maintained by wandering witches throughout the ages. Mirrored within it are the echoes of the Empire's hidden past, intertwined with the secrets held in the Imperial family's Black Records. It should show you everything, now that the Great Twilight is upon us."

"But before you can glimpse into the past, a trial awaits you."

"What does that entail?" Elliot asked

"Ah, I get it. We have to do another battle like we did back in the Infernal Castle and Sol Shrine." Levi remark.

"So the ritual has to be preceded by battles." Rean said.

"Yeah. Otherwise, it wouldn't be called a trial without passing through some test."

"Heehee. It would appear you're finally starting to catch on." Vita's voice said as a magic circle appeared and her Astral form appeared.

"V-Vita?" Emma said with surprised.

"We said goodbye yesterday, what are you doing here?" Sara asked.

"The reason I had to bid you farewell in the first place was so I could assist Grandmother with her preparations. As such, I will be the opening act for your trial. Oh, and I've brought a few guest performers. I do hope you like surprises." She said before she vanished.

Musse hummed. "Guest performers, hm?"

"I'm not so sure I like the sound of that."

"Ahem...This is not quite what I had in mind." Roselia said. "But I will allow her to do as she wishes, so long as she fufills her role. As for yours...aim for the deepest recesses of the shrine as if your lives depend on it. Because that may, in fact, be just the case." Then she vanished as well.

"Okaaaay. Guess we can add this to another trial we can conquered." Levi said.

"We are members of Class Vll. No challenge will dampen our spirits!" Laura replied

"Well said." Jusis nodded. "I must fulfill my duty. After all, I am a descendant of one of the Four Great Houses."

"Well, the truth's out there somewhere, so let's find it together!" Juna nodded

"New Class VII, start searching the Luna Sanctuary.." Rean command."Levi, Emma, Celine, Jusis- I'm counting on you, too!"

"Understood!" Emma noddded

"Ah, whatever. Let's just get on with it." Celine grumbled as they begin walking the path ahead of them.

They soon come across a barrier blocking one path.

"There's a barrier. We can't go through this route for now. Let's search for a way to disable it." Emma said as they took the right turn to climb up the stairs to reach an area where they spotted monsters roaming around.

The Team begin to charge toward the monster in combat until they eventually defeated it. They spotted a flowing marking on a statue.

"Huh? What's this?" Juna asked

"Must be a mechanism, we may need to break it." Levi said as he punch it to grumbled it, then turn to the barrier which stop functioning. "Look like we got our answer."

"If we encounter more of them, we must shatter them to disable the barriers." Jusis said as they walk back.

"Huh. For a Lunar Shrine, there sure seems to be a lot more water here than anything else." Rean said.

"What, you never heard the moon governs the tides before? The two pretty much go hand-in-hand." Celine explained.

"Come to think of it, I believe my Grandfather told me that the moon balances the water of the world." Levi said.

"That's right. Roselina and the Luma can assets to that." Emma nodded. "Not just that, the moon's reflection in water is often used in divination rituals. Like Mona does with her magic."

"Oh, I can imagine her being all excited about all of this." Alisa said.

"No kidding. Consideing this is a celestial theme, I wouldn't blame her." Levi nodded as they spotted a new monsters and powerful ones.

"Looks like we got some monsters." Machias said as Fie turn to the left.

"And there's one of those mechanisms too." Fie pointed.

"All right. Let's take care of this monster and break that Alter." Rean said as they rush in to face the bug monster as it attack them and summon monsters minions.

It begin to spit acid at them but they dodged as Machias fire bullets onto the minions as Levi let out a few horinidal slashes and vertical slashes as Rean let out a few slashes.

Meanwhile, Fie just casually walk to the Alter and break it, causing a portal nearby to deactivate.

"Okay, got it." Fie pull out her daggers, leap toward the Big monster, and plunged the attack to its death as it turned to black mist.

"Well, that's settles that." Venti said as they continue walking down a few hallway paths until they encounter another mechanism where they also spotted another trial chest.

"Look, another trial chest and the mechiasm." Emma said. "It's calling me this time."

"Me too... Ready, Emma?" Alisa asked

"Yes." Emma said as they go into the Trial Chest.

"Okay, let's just break this mechiasn then." Ash said as he swing his axe and grumbled, causing the barrier nearby to open a path.

"Okay, then we'll wait and-" Rean paused when the Trial Chest open and Emma and Alisa came back. "Oh... That was fast." He said as the Trial Chest disappeared.

"It was weak to Emma's Mirage Arts." Alisa smiled as Emma giggled. "Let's keep going then." She said as they moved onward until they saw a staircase.

They walk up the staircase which led them to a large area where Vita, Mona, Konoe and Trinity await them.

"There you are. Are you ready to begin the show?" Vita asked

"Okay, Vita I get, but Mona?! Why are you, Konoe, and Trinity here?!" Crow exclaimed.

"We saw you back in the Courageous II! And Miss Konoe and Trinity return with Vita." Machias added.

"Surprise to see us? Oh, I shouldn't ask such an obvious question." Mona giggled. "But wow." She looks around above and around. "Look at this glorious place~ Not only it's serene with tranquility with overwhelming mana, but also an astrology sanctuary! To think the witches of the Hexel Clan have such an area at their control!"

"Vita invited us to help out. While I have a keen interest in this subspace... we will support Vita, not just as a fellow witch." Konoe said.

Trinity giggled. "Do forgive us, everyone. But we will be part of your first trial."

"You know, it's rather funny. We talk about Mona earlier about this place and speak of the devil, here she is." Fie said.

"Oh, is that so? Well, I suppose you know me well enough to comment about this place." Mona giggled.

"Right... But, Vita, aren't your hands full without having to deal with us?" Alisa asked.

"Well, preparations for Operation Mille Mirage are underway, and I'm dealing with the other Anguis on my tail." Vita replied. "I'm more than willing to help out if I'll be getting a glimpse at what the reflecting pool has to show. Additionally, I've taken it upon myself to continue the research carried out by a certain wandering witch...Isola."

"Mother..." Emma said quietly.

"You were very attached to her, weren't you?" Celine asked.

"Isola was Emma's mom?" Juna asked

"What was this task passed from one generation of wandering witches to another?" Rean added.

"Why, investigating the Rivalries and the purpose of the Hexen Clan, of course." Vita replied. "It was her influence that made me begin my own research, which led to my chance meeting with the Grandmaster. I'm doing this to honor her memory."

"Well, I'm curious to know more about the Grandmaster, but we don't have the time." Levi said.

"The reflecting pool served another purpose eight hundred years ago. You should ask the elder about it." Vita then took her stance along with Mona, Trinity and Konoe. "But you need to defeat us first, as well as one other that awaits you." she said as she, Mona, Trinity and Konoe unleashed their incredible magical aura that brought chills down to everyone.

(BGM ended)

"Watch out!" Emma exclaimed as she got her staff out.

"That's the true strength of Ouroboros' Second Anguis, the Azure Abyss!" Sara added

"As well as Konoe and Platiumn... members of the Six Heroes from Ragna's world!" Elliot exclaimed

"Even Mona's strength is formidable...!" Gaius added

"Can't she hold back a little?!" Crow complained ."We're on the same side as her sister, dammit! Also, Mona, we're colleagues! Can't you hold back a little?!"

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Seductive Shudder)

"Sorry Crow. Though we are colleagues serving under the same King... I'm afraid I can't hold back... even for you." Mona responds with a smile.

"If you wish the desire to seek the truth, then you must prove yourself worthy to learn this truth." Trinity said.

"And this is also the perfect opportunity to witness how far each of you has gone. Especially to my first pupil, Elliot." Konoe said who change to Nine the Phantom. "I want to see how far you progress in the magical arts."

"I wonder… Do you truly have what it takes to find the truth hidden among the shadows? To emerge victorious from the Rivalries ahead?" Vita smirked. "It's time we put you to the test!"

Team of witches and mages...

The Azure Witch - Vita Clotilde

Great Mage - Nine

Seer of Stars - Mona Megistus

Witches of Barrier - Trinity Glassvile

Rean form a combat link with Levi, Juna form a combat link with Kurt, Altina form a combat link with Venti, Musse form a combat link with Ash, Alisa form a combat link with Elliot, Machias form a combat link with Jusis, Laura form a three way combat link with Emma and Celine, Gaius form a combat link with Fie, Sara form a combat link with Crow.

Vita form a combat link with Mona and Trinity form a combat link with Nine

Konoe launch fireballs toward Levi but Rean's Combat link, Protective Wall activate and shield Levi as Fie and Gaius dash toward Konoe and Trinity but Trinity swirl her wand and summon Bombs and throw it at them. Fie and Gaius dodged but Nine punch the ground and a fist of Hi no Kagutsuchi to knock Gaius on the floor and Trinity follow up by firing a bream on him and Fie.

Laura dash toward Vita but Mona summon water to form a helix underneath her and launch Laura into the air as Emma fire magic at Vita who deflect it with a swing of her fan. Laura recovered and then plunge the ground to create a power surge toward Vita who jump back then dash toward her and swing at her. Mona form a water barrier and then shoot water stream to Laura back from said barrier.

"Light! Shine us all!" Alisa used Heavenly Gift 2 to buff the team as Levi used his support craft as well: Theia's Light to buff the team with Stats boost.

"Soleil Cadence!" Elliot pointed his orbal staff and launch several magical staves toward Nine, Trinity, Mona and Vita and exploded on them.

Trinity however form a barrier and then wave her wand and fire missiles toward Elliot, Musse, Alisa and Emma as each of them jump back while Jusis dash toward Nine and slashed her, but her clothes form a shield and Nine fire magic on Jusis.

"Crimsom Raider!" Nine dash toward Jusis while wreathed in flame and knock Jusis back and then summons an exploding fire skull on Jusis and exploded on him as Machias run around, shooting at Nine and Trinity.

Jusis recovered and forward his hand. "Tornado Fang!" He launch a powerful stream of wind into a form of a tornado and push Nine back as Ash slam his axe on the ground but Nine teleported behind him and kick him in the back while Trinity swing her staff and push Ash back but got shot by Musse.

Crow shoot several homing shots toward Vita but she form a barrier as Mona rain down waterdrops from above and then spread her arms to summon a portal to fire large stream of water onto the battlefield which Rean and Levi dodged but Machias and Altina got caught in the progress. Sara jump high in the air and then fire lighting bullets onto Mona and struck her and Crow zoom toward her and fire energy bullets to push her back. Mona swing her arm and summons star projections toward Crow at rapid speed which he switch to Double Saber and form a shield as Sara zoom toward her and slash her.

Mona block Sara's flurry of slashes and then teleported above her with a large sphere of water and throw it at her which she jump back, but summon a giant wave and knock her, Crow and Laura away, Levi fire a beam of light at Vita as she summon magical blades to cut through it and then fire them toward at Levi. Levi clash and deflected each blade as Rean rush toward Levi and let out a series of slashes. Vita use her fan as a sword and then fire magic at Rean but he dodge by slide to her opening and use Waning Crescent Slash and struck her. Levi them zoom toward Vita and let out a flurry of trust and clockwise slash to push Vita back.

Nine summon several boulders and launch them toward the group as Gaius imbued wind in his spear and launch it, but failed and knock him back. Fie fire bullets at Nine and shot her and then she zoom at her and let out a series of slashes and then kick her guts to push her and Gaius took a stance and launch a powerful trust to push Konoe back which allow Fie to fire a bullet on her shoulder. Nine recovered as Trinity rain down bombs to cause an explosion and then jump into the air and then swing her arm and launch hearts homng shots. Venti fire his arrows as Altina fire laser from both it's blade hands and eyes.

"Huh?" Venti blink as Trinity fire a beam of magic. "Whoa!" Venti jump out of the way.

"Claiomh Solais!" Altina forward her arm and Claiomh Solais form into a Giant Hand and fire a laser in respond.

Both lasers lock into a power struggle until explode. Musse swing her arm to summon ice blade and launch them toward Trinity where she use her staff to repel them and then form a barrier as Nine wave her fingers as fire sweep around Musse and exploded on her, causing Ash's Fury Combat link to activate.

"Take this!" Ash use his craft: Void Breaker 2 to chain around her and the blade slash her as Musse fire orbal shot at Nine.

Nine let out a grinned as both her hands were channeled with magic and then clapped them together as two portals appeared and came out was Hi no Kagutsuchi fists to slam into Ash but he backflip until Nine appeared in front of him, grabbed and slammed him down. Juna rush in and she unleash a series of punches at Nine, but she block each attack before kicking Juna, but she blocked it then fire an energy shot from her Gunbreakers and push Nine back with Kurt following up an combat link Lethal Assist kick in and slash Nine.

Kurt used Tempest Edge 2 to push Nine away as Trinity step in between them and then fire magic at both of them. Trinity staff jewel shine as she summon a massive Bell toward them. Juna and Kurt split up as Trinity swung her Staff and hit Juna's guts, Swings herself on her staff and kicks low as Nine follow up with Nine plants a seed into the ground and accelerates its growth, willing it to travel across the field and strike Juna. Kurt dash toward Trinity and slashed her, but she block with her staff as Nine conjured a block of ice to push Kurt back.

Emma shoot magic projections toward Vita and Mona where they both dodged swiftly and then Laura swoop in and let out powerful swing of her sword onto them. Mona sent out water blades while Celine shoot fireballs at them.

"Blades, Dance for me!" Vita used her Craft: Dancing Blade to slash, Laura, Emma and Celine where Mona follow up by swiping attack Celine.

"Ring of Destiny!" Mona swirl her finger and large water rings appeared over Emma, Celine and Emma and Mona snapped her finger and the ring closed in and exploded on them. "Now, Vita!" Her combat link glow with Vita.

"Alright!" Vita respond as she and Mona combine their magic to form azure wind and water dome to trapped Emma, Celine and Laura and attack them from the inside before extending with magic blade and then close in and create a pillar of magic to knock said fighters back.

"Ngh!" Emma grunted as they recovered.

"Take this!" Celine cast Zeruel Cannon on Vita as Levi use Spiral Pillar to gather the witches and mages into one area, leap into the air and plague attack them as Rean vision the moon and strike through it, creating phantom slashes on to said witches and mages.

"Spiral Pillar!" Altina swing her arm and created a spiral explosion on Vita, Mona, Nine and Trinity.

"Cyclone!" Venti launch a cyclone toward the spirtal explosion to add additional affects as both asside collide and explodes.

However, it reveal Trinity form a barrier while Nine created dark red sphere around the battlefield and exploded in a cross-shape formation where everyone nearly dodged until Mona press her hand on the ground to spread water below everyone's feet into a reflection pool as a starry sky rose from it, creating a celestial-like explosion.

Crow switch to Orbal pistols and shotlock Nine, Mona, Vita and Trinity and shot at them as Sara extended her sword with lighting, dash, let out a series of slashes and then slam down with purple lighting. Sara then a large orbal laser beam at them while Alisa double jump, and use Rosetta Arrow on them.

"Diamond Nova!" Elliot rain down icy rocks which created ice spike on them and exploded.

"Bullet Blast!" Machias fired a barricade of bullets.

"Thunder Fang!' Gaius used his craft: True Thunder Fang as Fie took her stance with wind imbued blades that extended, zoom toward her opponents and unleashed phantom slashes and then fire a barricade of bullets of them.

"My, what a show you put on." Vita grinned. "Come Grianos!" She yelled as Grianos appeared and grew into his Aura Form and unleash a booming azure voice that push them away.

Nine summons a boulder embedded with gems above them and Trinity throw a Halo at them to trapped them while Mona fire a stream of water at them to push them back. Rean, Levi and the others broke free.

"Time Barrier,/Barrier of time, breath through!" Juna and Mahcias used their support craft: Quick Star and Burst Drive 2 and the sword fighters dash toward Vita, Mona, Nine and Trinity while Musse, Elliot, Celine, Emma and Venti cast Diamond Nova, Flare Butterfly, Ixion Volt and Galion Fort onto them and strike them as Jusis use Arc Slicer, Laura use True Lion Rush, Rean use Waning Crescent Slash, Levi use Penetrate Hurl, Kurt use Rain Slash 2, and Crow use Criminal Edge two.

"Take this!" Altina then use Landmine to launch Vita, Mona, Nina and Trinity into the air where Claiomh Solais change into a large cannon and fire large energy sphere and exploded on them as Ash leap into the air, slashes them and then swung them down to the ground.

As the ladies got back on their feet, Gaius use Gale Storm 2 while Fie used Tri-Cyclone 2, Sara use True Searing Flash and finally, Crow use his S: Craft: Vorpal Slayer as he throw his Double Saber onto them, dealing devastating slashes, jump into the air and grabbed it, imbued with power and impale the ground as power surge struck them. Vita, Mona, Nine and Trinity were pushed back.

"Hehe... Not bad." Nine grinned.

(BGM ended)

(Resuming Perfect Stage.)

"Crap, they're not done yet, aren't they?!" Crow grumbled.

"Y-Yeah... Nine is extremely powerful. No wonder she's the strongest witch in the world." Elliot panted.

"Haha. You grown at least, Elliot. As expected from my first pupil. Now, let's turn up the-"

Trinity Karate Chomp's Nine's head.

"Oof!"

"Now now, Nine. Don't get carried away. I think they had enough." Trinity told her.

"Heh, not bad. I had to admit, it was a lot more fun than I thought." Vita giggled.

"I'll say. Congratulations all of you. You pass." Mona said, placing her hand on her hip. "Though I imagine Konoe was itchin' for more fun."

Nine change back her appearance to Konoe. "Hmph. I suppose they pass. For now. I'll be looking forward for the next fight with you all. As for you Elliot, you grown much in power. Your Music Magic is also impressive. I'm sure you know this, but that magic enhances your hearing to be attuned to the sounds around you."

"Yeah, you're not wrong about that." Elliot scratches his hair. "But I'm grateful for this magic I've learned in Fiore." He smiled until Vita, Nina, Trinity, and Mona activated their teleportation circle.

"A-Are you all leaving?" Emma asked

"I'm a busy witch. Can't get held up here for too long." Vita answered.

"Right. While Vita, Konoe and Trinity return to the Pantagruel, I'll return to the Courageous." Mona said. "I would love to join you... but this is Class VII trial. So we wish you luck."

"Right. You pass the first test. Now you must pass your next one." Konoe agreed.

"Do give our regards to the elder and... the other guests as well." Trinity giggled as they teleported away.

"Ugh, good riddance." Celine sighed.

"They seems keen on lending her aid to the Weissland Army." Jusis said.

"Maybe that's because Vita can see what the future holds." Emma replied. "She has better insight into this than we do, due to being both a witch and an Anguis."

"We've got a lot to thank her for. Including Mona, Trinity and Konoe." Musse nodded.

"But the main is who is the other 'guest' she brought. Something tells me it's going to be one hell of a fight." Levi replied.

"Agreed. I suppose half the fun is in the mystery. That being said, We'll just have to roll up our sleeves and deal with it like the rest!"

"One thing's certain." Elliot sweatdrop.

"Yes, this will be even more difficult than the last." Gaius nodded.

Laura chuckled. "I don't mind in the slightest."

"Agreed! I will strive to reach even a portion of her skill as a master of two schools of swordsmanship." Kurt added

"I'm ready for it. Let's keep going!" Rean command.

They walk up two staircases where they reach an area that has a Fiend patroling the area until Levi slashed it with one blow as they continue onward. They begin to walk around the pathway ahead of them and climb up a few staircases to walk to open area and walk up another set of stairs to walk a path tor each higher ground. They arrived as a fork in the road where they see a barrier. They go down and took the other path, spotted a few monsters to take care of and then break the mechanism. They walk back to the barrier and climb up two staircases to name it to an open area where they see familiar faces waiting for them.

"I see you're still raring for a right." Aurelia smirked, accompany her is Kagura, Hakumen and Jubei.

"No way! Principal?!" Levi exclaimed.

"Even Hakumen, Jubei and Kagura?!" Rean added

"Uh-oh." Juna sweatdrop.

"We meet again, Class VII." Hakumen said.

"Haha. I'm sure you're surprised to see us, eh?" Jubei asked.

"I'll admit, I wasn't expecting two other members of the Six Heroes to be here as well." Musse admits. "It's kind of both of you to find some time for us in your busy schedule."

"I'd rather they didn't." Fie bluntly said.

"Ah, don't sweat it, Lady Mildine. We're glad to help." Kagura smiled

"You took care of the Pantagruel for me, which freed up some of my time." Aurelia replied. "I wish I could fight Master, but that is impossible at the moment. As thanks for the Pantagruel, we'll serve as a warm-up before you face your next trial. It's like killing two birds with one stone."

"Heh, you sure know how to make people feel special, huh?" Crow asked.

"Principal Le Guin, Lord Kagura Mutsuki, Hakumen and Jubei of the Six Heroes... we accept your challenge." Kurt said.

"We've got more people, but we're not shooting ourselves in the foot just to make things fair." Ash added.

"Heh…" Aurelia smirked. "You think that makes a difference to me?" She asked, powered up as she is surrounded by a golden aura. It was incredibly overwhelming.

"Wh-What the?!"

"You HAD to say something Ash." Venti sweatdrop.

Kagura chuckled. "Ash, my little buddy. You know far better than anyone not to fire up our lovely Golden Rakshasa, here. She who surpasses the limits of humanity, she who beat the Steel Maiden of Ouroboros. A ghost of the past whose strength reaches the height of legends. A War Goddess, or even a Valkyrie who dominates the battlefield with not just her brilliant aura, but also her ferocity with which she wage war."

"A fitting name for one who shines on the battlefield. Not simply as a soldier but as a peerless general." Hakumen agreed.

(BGM paused)

"Fitting, indeed..." Jusis said

"Rean Schwarzer. Do you remember my words?" Hakumen pull out Ōkami

(Blazblue Chronophantasma ost - Susanooh II)

"It is one thing to prove determination. The other is to prove it with your blade." Hakumen took his battle stance and unleash his white aura that rivals that of Aurelia.

"...!" Rean took his stance as the others took a step back.

"What overwhelming strength!" Laura exclaimed.

"Though you are the catalyst of the Great Twilight, I respect your resolve to learn the truth of the curse and bring salvation to the world, to cleanse those who have fallen into its corruption. But you must have your resolve match that of your blade." Hakumen said.

Jubei sighed. "Well I guess we'll get this started." Jubei pull out Musashi and also unleashes his battle aura. "All right youngsters, listen up. I'm sure you know this already, but if you learn the truth of this curse, then you must overcome us as your next trial!"

"But know, that we won't be going easy on you." Kaugra said as he unleash his battle aura to matches that of Aurelia and the others. "You stand before us is not just the Golden Rashasha, But titans from my old world. The Six Heroes. And siding with them is the Black Knight. A Peerless General who rides and dominates the battlefield with not just skill and willpower, or this aura, but a man who resolves to see through to the end. No matter the cost." He pointed his rectangular Zweihander. "Though you are many, you'll need all your strength to triumph over us."

Aurelia pointed her sword. "Just as it will be with the Jaeger King and the Lance Maiden. You must prove yourselves here. Especially if you wish to triumph over the Blood and Iron Chancellor- he who rules this turbulent era!"

Everyone pull out their weapons.

"Yes, they are all unparalleled commanders in their own right." Gaius nodded.

"I get it, so this is a test to see if we can beat someone who's on their level!" Sara replied.

"We must succeed here if we're to defeat my brother as well." Jusis added.

"As well as Liam. A man who indomitable strength." I nodded.

"We will overcome you today, General Aurelia Le Guin, General Kagura, Lord Hakumen and Lord Jubei!" Laura shout.

"Each of you may be one of the most powerful generals and swordmasters Erebonia, the Mushroom Kingdom and even the world has ever seen, but you'll find yourself outmatched this time!" Rean added.

"Brave words- but remember: you face the Golden Rakshasa, the warlord who leaves entire battlefields trampled in her wake!" Aurelia smirked as she ready. "You will kneel before my Blade! We won't hold back. Fight as if your lives depend on it!"

Titans of War

The White Void - Hakumen

The Golden Rakshasa - Aurelie Le Quin

The Black Knight - Kagura Mutsuki

One-eye Cat Samurai - Jubei

Rean form a combat link with Levi, Juna form a combat link with Kurt, Altina form a combat link with Venti, Musse form a combat link with Ash, Alisa form a combat link with Elliot, Machias form a combat link with Jusis, Laura form a three way combat link with Emma and Celine, Gaius form a combat link with Fie, Sara form a combat link with Crow.

Aurelia form a combat link with Kaugra and Hakumen form a link with Jubei

Crow made the first move as he fire bullets from his orbal pistol as Hakumen swing his sword to deflect them as Jubei zoom toward Crow and slashed him, but Sara's Protective Wall kick in and kick Jubei back as Crow switch to Double Saber and dash to Jubei, but Hakumen lung toward Crow and begin to face him. As they swing at each other. Alisa use Heavenly Light 2 onto herself and her teammates to buff them and Emma cast Crescent Moon. Rean dash toward Aurelia who respond in kind clash their blade and swing at each other as Levi use Penetrate Huel, but Kagura got in front to deflect it, but it went though him and Strike Aurelia as Rean follow up by slashing her.

Rean then swing his sword vertically but Aurelia block and parry as Machias fire at Kagura who deflected his bullets but Jusis dash toward to him and they both swing at each other until Kagura kick Jusis back, then zoom toward him and unleash a series slashes on him and knock him toward Machias and knock him back. Laura dash toward Kagura and they swing at each other. Celine throw a fireball while Emma fire magic as Kagura move swiftly to avoid the projections attack and Laura use True Lion Rush on him and Celine follow up throwing a fireball at him. Kagura unleash a powerful black wave to push Laura back and swings his arm outward to toss a dark ball of whirling energy forward Rean as Aurelia knock him back with a swing and struck him, allowing Aurelia to follow up with another slash.

Levi's Vengence Combat link kick in and slash Aurelia as Altina run toward Kagura with Claiomh Solais who form it's blade hands into fist and begin to throw punches at Kagura who dodge the attack and counterattack by a reverse grip inward crouching turn to sweep-slash but Altina use Claiomh Solais's arm as a shield as Kagura swings his sword upwards twice, with the first strike being a two-handed lifting spin followed by Kagura kicking his sword into a wide upward slash, then surfs on his sword to whip at his Altina for two strikes. But Altina dodge of his attack and then Claiomh Solais punch Kagura, slash him two times and then fire eye laser on him to push him back.

Aurelia send out two slash projections toward Elliot who form a barrier but push him back two feet and then he fire magic at her as Alisa fire an arrow toward her. Aurelia deflected them with a swing of her sword and then jump and used Prismatic Tetra Blade.

"Prismatic Resonance!" Elliot absorbed the attack with his magic and elemental shockwaves and push Aurelia back as Alisa shot an arrow on Aurelia's shoulder.

Ash swing his axe toward Jubei but he easily dodge and counterattack by move his body to the lift and then swing his sword, but Ash block as Musse fire at him. Jubei took the shots as Ash swirl his axe and then push Jubei back. Hakumen Dash forward and slashed Ash, but he blocked it and was pushed back.

"Empty Sky Form: Summer's Advance!" Hakumen unleash a powerful slash projection onto Ash and Musse and knock them back.

"Gggh!" Musse grunted.

"Nnngh?! Damn, this guy a monster!" Ash grunted.

"The Six Heroes are known for their immense strength. But don't give up, yet Ash!" Musse then channel her magic. "Frozen Dance Blade!" Musse then unleashes a barricade of blades toward Hakumen and Jubei.

Jubei draw out his sword and he and Hakumen swing their sword to deflect the frozen blades until Crow begin to shoot several bullets at them, taking both the bullets and the Frozen Blades. Jubei dash toward Crow to claw him, but Sara's combat link: Protective Wall kick him and knock Jubei back as Crow fire at him. Jubei recovered and draw two sword this time and then used Cat Paw to zig Zag toward Sara and Crow. Sara begin to clash with Jubei but Jubei was swifter then she use until Jubei land some decent slashes and then kick her while use Cats Paw to slash through her with a slash. Crow switch to Double Saber and then dash toward Jubei to slash him. Hakumen, however, swoop in and slash Crow.

Crow recovered as Celine cast Flare Butterfly onto Jubei. Jubei backflip and then rush forward Celine to slash her. Altina quickly had Claiomh Solais to change into a giant him to grabbed him and slam him down as Venti summon a torndo underneath and launch Jubei in the air. Laura jump and swing Jubei toward Hakumen. Hakumen catch him and drop him. Laura dash and she and Hakumen swing at each other until Hakumen kick Laura back as Jubei launch claw attacks on her. Emma combat linkability Curia 2 heal Laura while Celine raindown fireballs on them and then summon a magical bell that change into a cannon, firing laser at them.

Ash rush toward Hakumen and they swing at each other while Musse fire at Hakumen's open spot. Jubei dash toward Musse, but Venti shot at arrow at him, and Altina follow up by slashing him. Jubei then claw attack Altina, but Claiomh Solais block and countered with a punch from Claiomh Solais and then fire laser shots at him. Jubei jump back a few times until Venti fire five orbal wind arrows toward Jubei and Altina follow up by forming Claiomh Solais into a Square and slam him on Jubei to knock him on the ground. Claiomh Solais jump back as Jubei got back on his feet... eer... Paws and then ready his two sword and dash toward Altina while Ash backflip to avoid Hakumen's slash.

Ash swirl his axe and took a stance, charge with red energy and then dash toward Hakumen. Hakumen block, grabbed Ash and slammed him over him as Musse fire at Hakumen. Hakumen dash toward Musse to slash her, but she jump and kick Hakumen's head and then fire on his helmet as Ash recovers and use Void Breaker 2 to strike Hakumen and Musse fire orbal shots at Hakumen.

Levi dash toward Aurelia and they both swing at each other until Aurelia kick Levi, only for him to block and counterattack to push Aurelia back as Kagura went to attack him next. But Rean step in and block his attack and push him back. Rean and Kagura swing at each other until the point Kagura unleash a powerful slash on him which Rean block and counter with a Waning Crescent Slash. Gaius swirl his spear and then dash toward Kagura as they swing at each other until Kagura kick him back and Aurelia follow up to slash him. But Fie swoop in and block the attack but was push back with Gaius. Fie then fire bullets toward Aurelia and Kagura which they use their weapons to block it as Gaius use Gale Stringer 2.

Gaius then took a stance as he imbued his spear with wind element and then dash toward Kagura and Aurelia and unleash a flurry of trust attacks as they block, then uneasl a powerful clockwise vertical slash. Kagura and Aurelia were push back as Aurelia then used Dynast Sunder onto, Gaius, Fie, Levi and Rean. Each of them block but took the heavy hit. Kagura follow up by dashing toward Gaius and slash him. Gaius and Kagura then swing at each other while Aurelie swing at Rean as they swing at each other. Kagura push Gaius back but Fie swoop in and slash him as Gaius then took his stance, dash toward Kagura with a powerful trust attack to push him back. Aurelia push Rean back but Levi join in and they swing at each other until Levi impale the tip of the Glaive down for him to leap over and kick Aurelia as Rean follow up by slashing him.

Aurelia and Kagura recovered and they both readied themselves and dashed toward them.

"Nocturne Bell!" Until Elliot used Nocturne Bell 2 on them and struck them which Alisa then use Molton Storm on them. Rean then use True Helix on them and Levi follow up with Lethal Assist.

"Empty Sky Form: Winter's Riposte!" Hakumen perform his own battoujutsu and knock Laura back.

"Nnngh!" Laura grunted as Jusis imbued his Sword with green energy and then ash toward Hakumen as they swing their swords at each other while Machias then fire bullets at him.

Jubei swoop in to deflect the bullets with his sword. Then Jubei brought out his claws to attack Machias, But Claiomh Solais form a fist and knock Jubei back to Hakumen. Jubei recovered as Hakumen push Jusis back. Machias then use Dread Breaker on the Six Heroes while Jusis then warp around them and slash them. Laura swoop in and unleash a powerful slash on them and knock them away while Emma and Celine combine their magic where two magic circles appear and over Hakumen and Jubei rain down magic spheres and exploded on them.

Hakumen clear the smoke with one swing as Jubei draw out his two swords to dash toward Laura, Emma and Celine, but Crow used Nemesis Bullet 2 to halt Jubei's upcoming attack and Sara lunged at him and slash him to push him back.

"Gotcha now~" Venti then used Stormeye 2 to pull Jubei, Hakumen, Aurelia and Kagura together and attacking with wind slashes before exploded.

"Spiral Explosion!" Altina swing her arm and summon a tornado of explosion.

"Take this!" Jusis then warp around them with slashes and then a magic circle appeared underneath Aurelia, Kagura, Hakumen and Jubei and then Jusis's hand glow with magic to trapped them in a sphere, imbued his sword with magic and then slash through them breaking the sphere.

"Haha... Excellent..." Jubei said with a proud look on his face as he, Hakumen, Aurelia and Kagura look pretty beat up.

(BGM ended)

(Resuming Perfect Stage)

"Hah... Hah..." Rean panted heavily along with the others look tired.

"We managed somehow..." Laura panted.

"Yeah... We've passed the test, I'd say." Crow agreed where they all suddenly felt a slight surge of power fly through them.

Everyone put their weapons away.

"Heh, the sanctuary has accepted you." Aurelia said. "But one more trial awaits you up ahead. You've made it this far, don't lose now."

"Yes. Beyond this passage is where the Crimson Witch is waitin'." Jubei nodded.

"And lies with her, the reflecting pool which will reveal what you need to know." Kagura nodded.

"We have done our part. The rest is in your hands." Hakumen said as a teleportation circle appeared over the four warriors.

"Thank you for your time, General, Sir Kagura, Lord Hakumen and Sir Jubei. Good Luck with Operation Mille Mirage." Musse added.

Aurelia nodded. "Rest assure. It is in excellent hands. Take care Your Grace. Farewell, Schwarzer, Sullivan. It's been a pleasure, New Class VII. Perhaps our paths shall cross again."

"Yeah. So good luck to you all." Kagura nodded and he, Aurelia, Hakumen and Jubei teleported away.

"We barely managed to survive that fight." Sara wipe her forehead. "But man, what a victory."

"Right." Levi hummed. "I have a hunch that our final battle would be Roselia."

"The Hexen Clan's legendary elder, who's been alive for over eight centuries…" Jusis replied

"If she's got her original form back, does that mean she's recovered her full strength?" Machias asked

"Don't forget- she mentioned something about her 'true form'." Alisa stated

"Grandmother keeps many secrets, even from our clan." Emma sighed. "The truth about Celine and Grianos, for example."

"Hey, speculation won't help us anywhere." Celine replied. "But I'll be with you every step of the way, so you'd better be as committed to this as I am!"

"Yeah, you got it!" Rean nodded.

"All right, let's go." Ash said as they took off by walk up the stairs and found a teleporter and telepoer them to the Alter area.

"So Altina. Since when did Claiomh Solais form into a fist and all that other stuff?" Venti asked.

"Oh. Professor Kokonoe upgraded him. Even I was shocked about it." Altina answered

"Professor Kokonoe is really putting out all the help she can give us." Alisa said

"Yeah. We owe her much to aid us." Rean agreed. "Let's find some way to repay her." He said as they arrived at a large area where Roselia is waiting for them.

"So you've arrived at last. Well done." Roselia said.

(BGM ended)

"Hello, Grandmother." Emma responded.

Rean look behind her and see five pillars with orbs on top and in the center was a large well-like strucker behind with aura rising from the water."Is that the reflecting pool?"

"Yes." Roselia turn her head to the reflecting pool. "Though the proper name for it is the Spectral Moon Mirror." Roselia replied.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Ancient Oath)

"The water's so crystal clear." Alisa said.

"So this is what the wandering witches spend so many generations watching over." Kurt added.

"Now I see...it's actually an artifact, isn't it?" Gaius asked.

"F-For real?" Juna asked

Altina hummed. "It does emanate a certain aura, not unlike that of the Bell of Crossbell."

"Very astute. That particular artifact was passed down through the Crois family." Roselia said. "It is but one of many. The Tetracyclic Towers of Liberl, the Recluse Cube of the Liber Ark, the Black Records of the Arnor family. Even Prince Olivert's Sonorous Seashell."

"Legends say Aidios bestowed artifacts to a number of different groups back in the days of lore." Laura said.

"And these artifacts were given to the ancestors of those who were involved in each one." Levi added "And the Spectral Moon Mirror consigned to the witches."

"Correct. The Spectral Moon Mirror works in tandem with the Black Records, and is itself connected to the Spirit Shrine scattered about the land. It is also the source of the many visions you have experienced. Nevertheless, is it quite a rarity for its power to manifest, even for us witches. But everything changed the moment we congregated together in this shrine."

"How so?"

"Emma, the wandering witch, and Celine, her familiar. Schwarzer, the cursed Sacrifice, and I, the elder of the Hexen Clan. The Great Twilight is upon us, and a frenzied thirst for blood sweeps over the land." She said as he red aura emerges from her.

"Gah...so we're really doing this?" Celine asked.

"Red Moon Rose...the true ancestor of the vampires." Musse said.

Roselia giggled. "The term 'vampire' is little more than slander. A myth that masks the reality of my kin. Although, when it comes to manipulating vitality, I suppose there is a hint of truth to the tales."

(BGM paused)

Her eyes glowed and suddenly, her entire form changed.

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

"Holy..." Levi exclaimed.

"A Holy Beast…" Fie replied.

"You're..." Emma paused

"The origin of Grianos and myself." Celine added

"'Roselia', was once borne by an ancient creature." Roselia replied. "1,200 years ago, it fused with the Kin of Fire's Elder to prevent a great calamity of their time. This creature was the Holy Beast sent forth by the Goddess and Albedo, the Burning Sphinx."

"G-Grandmother..." Emma said, quietly.

"So you're the one the church has been searching for...the other Holy Beast, long thought to have disappeared." Gaius added.

"Damn. Who woulda guessed?" Crow asked.

Venti let out a small quiet gasp. "Ah... So that's what Viridi was going to say when you complain that day..."

"You're complaining because you want to show how cool you are? For a Ho-Uh, Elder of the clan of witness, you sure are childish."

Roselia let out a sigh "My, that goddess nearly open her mouth."

'So that explains that level of divinity I sense from her...' Levi thought.

"Viridi aside... Palutena, Mewtwo, Rachel and even Master Yen Sid knew my true presence. Palutena and Viridi I'm not surprised considering they are gods... Mewtwo, as a Pokemon with incredible psychic powers. But Rachel and Yen Sid are extraordinary. While Rachel is a fellow Kin from another world. She once told me that she was someone outside of "Reason" within her world. An Observer, as she put it. Something similar to that of Godhood. While Master Yen Sid, a formal Keyblade Master and an extremely powerful has reached keen senses to sense godhood due to his true mastery over the magical arts, as well as the height of what the ways of Keyblade Masters have reached. As I already stated, I am not the first to bear the name 'Roselia.' The original one was killed 900 years ago by the Gnomes' betrayal. The Golden Wanderer witnessed it themselves. I began my existence as a familiar, not unlike Celine. My predecessor showed me this place, telling me to return here, should anything happen to her. I obeyed. And when I arrived, the Spectral Moon Mirror allowed me to inherit a part of her memories, as well as her mission. Thus did I become the second Roselia."

"Come to think of it, that Azure Bird that Vita has have azure wings, just like that." Sara mused

"So both familiars were made in the imagine of the Holy Beast that created them." Laura added

"Now I understand why you wanted Celine to come here..." Emma said

Roselia nodded. "Indeed. The Great Twilight is upon us, and our clash with the Gnomes draws ever closer. Given the state of the world and the coming of the Rivalries, nothing is guaranteed. As such, should the worst come to pass... Celine is to serve as my successor."

Emma gasped "But... that would mean..."

"Rose... Just what are you planning to do?!" Celine asked

"Nothing so drastic as dying, I assure you. But we must account for every possibility." Roselia answered. "Filling the air with strife will cause the reflecting pool to show us visions linked to the Black Records. Having a wandering witch and the ultimate Sacrifice here should allow us to see the truth of this curse in its entirety."

"I see." Rean said. "We need to uncover the full vision. All the glimpses we saw in the other shrines were just pieces of it."

"And in order to trigger it, we need to fight." Kurt added.

"I see... In that case, we can't hold back." Levi said.

(BGM ended)

"Precisely." Roselia replied. "Now... enough dawling."

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Neck or Nothing)

Then she roared and unleashed a formidable aura, causing Class VII to pull out their weapons.

"Class VIIs, new and old- it's time to face our greatest trial yet!" Rean said.

"We'll prove the time Millium bought for us was not in vain!" Jusis declared.

"We will fight to uncover the hidden truth!" Emma nodded

"I've got a few choices to say about all this, Rose, but I'll fight you first and complain later!" Celine replied,

"Hmph. Then come, Children. Face me with the full extent of your strength." Roselia replied. "We shall see how you fare against the Hexen Clan's Elder: I, a Holy Beast of the Goddess- Roselia, the Burning Sphinx!"

Fire Beast of Aidios - Holy Beast Roselia

Rean form a combat link with Levi, Juna form a combat link with Kurt, Altina form a combat link with Venti, Musse form a combat link with Ash, Alisa form a combat link with Elliot, Machias form a combat link with Jusis, Laura form a three way combat link with Emma and Celine, Gaius form a combat link with Fie, Sara form a combat link with Crow.

Roselia unleash a wave of heat to cause burns onto Class VII and then attack them with a claw. Levi used his magic to form a barrier to push back as Machias and Alisa fire their guns and arrows toward Roselia as the others split up. Emma and Celine throw magic at Roselia while Venti shot his orbal arrows. Roselia backhand them as Jusis let out a graceful slash while Laura land a heavy swing downward. Roselia attemp to stomp on Laura but Sara fire bullets on Roselia's face as Crow slash her legs. Levi and Rean slash her thighs as Fie and Gaius jab and slash the other side. Roselia roared, pranced and slam the floor, creating a shockwave to push them back, adding the burns they go near Roselia.

"Ngh! This fire...!" Laura grunted.

"Rose is unleash fire to burn us, even if we get too close!" Celine grumbled.

"Then we need to heal up quickly, or we'll fall at this rate!" Emma stated.

"Can you even survive my fire?" Roselia wondered as she used Splendid Flame as she roared and her tail shoot sphere of fire onto Emma, Celine, Laura and exploded on them.

"How about some wind then?" Venti raised his hand and a small tornado appeared and then launch it at Roselia's face.

"Hmph!" Roselia said and fire breath at him which as he run away as Altina has Claiomh Solais's change into a giant gannon.

"Fire!" Altina swing her arm and fire three spheres at Roselia and exploding on her before Claiomh Solais change back.

Fie swoop in and slashed Roselia's legs vertically and horizontally as Gaius ran up and then let out a few trust attacks on her other leg. Elliot cast Seraphic Ring to heal everyone as Levi jump up and let out a few Aerial slashes on her right side and Rean swing his tachi two time vertically from left and right. Musse shotlock Roselia's body and unleash a barricade of magic bullets and exploded while Ash jump up and swing his axe downward on Roselia's back. Roselia used Radiant Breeze as she flip her wings to unleash a mighty gale onto everyone to push them back. Venti used his magic to cut through the breeze.

"Oh?" Roselia mused before her eyes flash and fire laser beam at him.

"Whoops!" Venti cartwheel his way out as Sara and Crow let out some descent slashes as Roselia's tail swing at him, blocking but pushing back.

Kurt let out twin slashes from vertically and Horizontally while Juna jump up, land some kicks and punches before got hit by the wings as she was knock down, but she recovered as she slide a bit. Roselia let out a few stomps toc create fiery shockwaves and then unleash a fire breath attack onto Sara and Crow as they split up.

"Take this!" Celine wave her arms and channel magical energy and launch them at Roselia as Emma channel magic and then raise her staff high to rain down pillars of light. .

Laura extended her Greatsword and then she rush in and launch powerful horizontal an vertical slashes before launching a clockwise slash that produce a shockwave as Rean ran up, jump and then swing down his Tachi on Roselia's back and slash her. Levi use Penetrate Hurl on Roselia where Rean follow up, when he hands it, and slashes Roselia. Jusis imbued his sword with green energy and then dash through Roselia surrounding before his sword's extended and then launch a graceful trust stand and launch a powerful trust attack on Roselia as Machias shotlock and fire several bullets onto Roselia.

Roselia used Eye of the Dark to unleash a sinister roar wich two giant cats eyes unleash a wavelength that struck the group.

"Nngh! What was that?!" Ash grunted.

"I don't know, but whatever you do, don't get hit by it!" Emma told everyone as she raised her staff and then cast Crescent Mirror to buff and magic reflect.

"As if that will stop you!" Roselia used Hellfire Stream and fire a beam of hellfire onto the group and to their surprise, it pierce through their defence and even cancel their current buff.

"Nngh! That attack can cancel buffs?!" Levi grimanced.

"Don't give up just yet!" Rean said as he then used Arcane Gale to unleash a crimson fire slash.

"Yeah, this ain't over cat!" Ash agreed as swirl his axe and then dash and go right through Roselia's aura and then imbued his axe with red energy and swing downward, creating a power surge while Musse summon several guns.

"Gun Armary's shot!" Musse swing her arm into a commanding pose and each guns fire a barricade of bullets on Roselia and exploded on her.

Alisa charge her orbal arrow with a magic circle appeared and then release, multiplying five arrows to strike at Roselia as Elliot summon musical staves and charge with up.

"Soleil Cadence!" Elliot launch the musical staves onto Roselia and exploded on them as Levi imbued his Glaive, extended the range and spun and swung to the left, then swung upward slash, then slashed to the right, then finished by spinning and slamming his Glaive down with an energetic slash.

Juna use the combat Art: Steady Mind to temporarily increase her strength, then dash and launch an upper punch on Roselia's chins while Kurt used his craft: Whirling Steel to dance up a storm of twin blade slashes and then jump up and swing down a tornado as Juna follow up by shooting energy bullets. Roselia's fire faded away as Sara warp around Roselia's and then begin shooting around with lightning bullets while Crow Swirl his double saber and then throw it, slashing Roselia all over while Celine conjured a large fireball and throw it at Roselia. At the same time, Fie jump up to Roselia's back and begin impaling her back and each attack done devastating attacks.

"NNGH!?" Roselia grunted as Fie jump off

Gaius swirl his spear, stance and then launch rapid trust attacks while Ash let out a few swings of his axe. Roselia stomp the ground to create a fiery shockwave and then flapped her wings and took off. Roselia let out a roar and summon meteors onto the group.

"Incoming!" Machias yelled as everyone covered themselves while Emma, Celine, Venti, Altina and Levi form barriers to protect themselves from the attack as it exploded on them, then Roselia was surrounded by fire and dive toward them and went through the ground to create a volcanic explosion to deal a devastating blow on everyone, even those within the barrier cannot withstand it.

"Nngh... What... power..." Gaius groaned. "Such as the power of the Holy Beast..."

"Oh?" Roselia burst out of the ground and flew back into the air. "Is this as far your power goes?"

"Don't underestimate us, Rose!" Levi said as he imbued his power into his Glaive, changing its form into a glowing golden blade and then swirl it, took a stance. "HAAAAAAH!" And then throw it and pierce through Roselia.

"NNNUGH!" Roselia yelled in agony as she fell onto the ground and get back on her feet. "Not bad...!"

Roselia roared and them summon fireballs and launch them toward the group. Rean and the others split up. Elliot cast Segraphic Rings to heal everyone as Sara extended her Sword's range with lighting and then dash rough Roselia and backflip, shooting several lighting bullets as Crow used Criminal Edge 2. Musse shoot the ground to launch herself in the air twice and then fire charge orbal shots and fire a beam at Roselia.

"All right. Time to use these move I learn from Ashe, Claude and Byleth." Alisa took her stance and then she warp around Roselia and then begin firing three orbal arrows each and then she double jump and then charge her orbal arrow and release a large orbal arrow beam from the magic circle.

Emma and Celine combine their magic and then rain down pillars of light and ice while Gaius imbued his Galice with wind and then, jump to the air and then impale the ground, causing earth spike to burst wind on Roselia. Kurt and Juna let out a series of slashes and punches as Roselia jump spin tail attack. Roselia then fire eye lasers onto them but Laura used Lion Rush 2 and and struck a devastating blow. Venti and Altina cast Lost Genesis and Albion Wolf as Fie swoop around Roselia, shooting Bullets as Machias switch a gun and fire a large bullet that triggers an explosion. Ash used Rumbling Smash 2 and Rean imbued his Tachi, vision the moon, then zoom toward several moons to launch and slash each one and then jump up and sewing down the large moon, revealing to be Roselia as she's dealt with phantom slashes. Jusis imbued his sword with magic, impale the ground to create surge of power and exploded on Roselia and Crow finish it off by jumping to the air, imbued his double saber with red energy and unpale the ground, creating a white slash X, dealing a heavy blow on Roselia.

"UUUGH!" Roselia yelled in agony as she nearly stand. "M... Magnificently fought..."

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Ancient Oath)

"Wow… That… was something." Levi panted. 'How long has it been since I've face such a formidable monster?'

"How'd you like that, huh?" Ash asked, catching his breath.

"That was tough, but I think we did it." Fie said.

"Ggh...I didn't expect you to be able to old your ground so fiercely, children." Roselia replied. "Now I understand how Ragnard and ***** must have felt after facing your kind."

"******?" Celine asked

"Huh? I know of the ancient dragon, but the other name..." Emma asked

"Huh? She said Argres, right?" Levi asked.

"Huh, wait you heard that?"

"Yeah... but can you?" Levi asked

"I'm surprised that you are able to speak his name clearly. That name that has passed from this world into oblivion." Roselia explained. "But back to the matter at hand. You have all passed the trial set before you. As for what comes next. You had best brace yourselves."

Roselia moved back and the Spectral Moon Mirror glow brighter as a projection began to appear.

"The Spectral Moon Mirror... It's...!" Rean gasped

Emma raised her wand and use her magic. "I'll guide you all through the path, be ready!"

"What… is this?" Altina asked.

"The fragments of the past preserved in the Black Records. A reality even I have yet to see." Roselia answered. "Do not avert your eyes, this...is the truth!"

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Black Truth)

Then a vision reveal of Xeno and Leo visiting a grave, seeing Xeno on his knees.

"Dammit! Why...? How could the boss just leave us like this?!" Xeno yelled as his head lowered down, looking sad with regret.

"He told us to take care of Fie. He must have been prepared for this." Leonidas told him. "The boss dragged Baldur the War God straight down to Gehenna with him. I'm sure he's happy about that." He lower his head. "And yet..."

"What a shame... It would same I've failed to make it in time..." A voice said, causing Xeno and Leonidas head to turn and see Black Alberich approaching them.

"You..."

"Ain't you that guy from the Workshop?" Xeno asked

"Why, yes. Oh, I do hope our S-Weapons are serving you well." Alberich answered. "I have a certain... proposal that you might find of interest. And as it so happens, everything we need to execute it can be found nearby. If all goes well, it may be possible to bring your boss back to life." He said with a dark grinned on his face.

"What was that?!" Leonidas look shocked.

Xeno scoffed. "Now, you're just talkin' crazy."

Alberich shrug. "Very well. I cannot fault your suspicion. Perhaps the Red Constellation would be interested in having their leader back, instead. There is, after all, only room for one in this deal." He said, causing Xeno and Leo to look at each other before giving a sad look.

"Fine..."

Then the next scene changed to Alberich and Rutger who is examining himself, behind them was Zechtor.

"Congratulations on completing your trial." Alberich said with a dark grin, holding his arms behind his back. "I trust you understand your situation, Rutger Claussell?"

"Yeah. Lemme see if I got this straight. I get to Zector, one'a the fragments of the Great Power. Which means, somehow, or another, I ended up being the chosen sap. But not by ol' Palatinate over there, per see..." Rutger turn to Alberich, giving him a deadly look. "You set me up, didn't you?"

"Oh?" Alberich look surprised and raised an eyebrow, tilting his head, pretending to look confused. "And what makes you say that?"

"Don't play dumb. I know you've been givin' weapons to both us and the Red Constellation. Wouldn't be any of my business, ordinarily. But when I fought Baldur, I realized somethin' strange was goin' on. We duked it out for three days and three nights straight. Guy's gotta wonder how that's even possible." Rutger turn to Zector. "And on top of that, this big thing just happened to be sleeping right next to where we died." He shook his head. "I can't remember why we chose that place for our final showdown." Then he glare at Alberich. But it's obvious to me now. You've been the one pullin' the strings behind our backs this whole time."

Black Alberich shuddered as he begins to laugh. "Heh heh heh... Hahahaha... HAHAHAHAHAHA!" He turn to Rutger with a sinister grinned. "Oh, I'm surprised that you figured it all out. I salute you, sir. I always enjoy working with people who are both smart and useful. With that said, you'll be extremely useful, because I... no... we have big plans for you. Whether you like it... or not." he said, causing the scene to fade into white.

---

The next scene then faded to black.

"It's been so long since I visited and stayed in this world..." A familiar voice said, revealing to be Aether who was traveling in a field. "I've lost track of time of how many years it has been... Ever since the Great One was forged... and that it was split into pieces... turning them to Divine Knights, with the help of myself... and my two friends, the Holy Beast of Fire and Earth. I watched as both civilizations of the Hexen Clan and the Gnomes created Erebonia, created their capital, and dubbed it Heimdallr. However, despite being a newly established nation, it suffers from poverty..." The scene then changes when Aether, along with Roselia the Holy Beast, and Holy Beast of Earth who was a silver-green dragon with a halo selected a man at the early age of twenty. "The leader who was fighting and caring for his people was named Reise Arnor, who helped build Heimdallr with his bare hands, and thus, the Holy Beasts along with myself, knew who was right for the position to lead this new nation of Erebonia to glory." The scene changes as Aether watches the scene where Holy Beast Roselia and the Elder of the Hexen Clan fused together in a secret place."After that, I watched as the first Elder of the Hexen Clan: Melusina, and the Holy Beast of Fire, Roselia, fused together. They did it in secret because the disaster caused by Roselia's presence and her fire was overwhelming... and her fire would burn almost anything because she her injured and still hadn't recovered the strength to find a good place to rest. And thus... Roselia, as a new being was born, having both of their memories into one."

The scene then changes when Aether was examining the ground, giving a serious look.

"Life in Erebonia was blooming well... until I saw that black wave..." Aether thought. "I don't know what was that... but I do know that wave holds malevolence. I had a really bad feeling about it." The scene changes when he is talking to Roselia, Reise, The Holy Beast of Earth, and the Chief of the Gnomes. "I discussed with my friends about this black wave, and told them to be cautious. Because that feeling in my heart... that black wave will put Erebonia... even the world in danger." He thought as the screen faded to black.

---

The scene remain black.

"RELINQUISH IT TO ME..."

Until now...

"IT BELONGS TO ME...YOUR SOUL...YOUR ENTIRE BEING..."

Then reveal was Dreichel on his deathbed, seeing an ominous black misty soul and multiple eye entity, haunting him.

Dreichel's let out a weak laugh. "You never do tire of this, do you? You are the embodiment of delusion. Repulsive, without a single shred of dignity, unlike Valimar."

"COMPARED TO ME, THE ASHEN KNIGHT IS NOTHING MORE THAN SCRAP METAL."The Black Entity responded back "ACCEPT IT! YOU, WITH THE HEART OF A LION, DESERVE BETTER… YOU ALONE, DESERVE TO PILOT ME…"

"Dreichels?" a woman's voice

"That voice...!" A familiar voice yelled, causing Dreichel to gasp as he and the Black Entity turned their heads to the door.

"DAMN… THE ARGENT ONE AND THAT WRETCHED WANDERER COMES..." The Black Enity snarled "I CAN'T LET HIM FIND ME HERE... I MUST FIND A WAY TO RID OF THAT ONE PERMANENTLY..."

"What are you..." Drechels turn to the entity.

"THAT'S SOMETHING YOU DON'T NEED TO KNOW. BUT IT MATTERS NOT…"The Black Entity turns to him. "YOU SHALL NEVER ESCAPE MY GRASP… NO MATTER WHERE YOU FLEE… YOUR WEARY SOUL WILL NEVER FIND REFUGE…"

Before it vanished, that's when Aether and Lianne came into the room, as Lianne look confused, and Aether looking concerned.

"Dreichels, are you okay?!" Aether asked

"Haha... I'm fine my old friend." Dreichels let out a weak chuckle.

"Dreichels...What was that just now?" Lianne asked

"Haha, it's been an age and a half, Lianne. You haven't changed at all from when I last saw you. No...if anything, you're more beautiful than ever."

"Heehee. Your flattery won't work on me. I assume you heard what became of me from Aether and Rose?"

"Indeed. They told me of your revival and how you'd left Erebonia with Aether in secret." Dreichels then let out a soft sigh. "What a heartless woman you are… We promised to grow old together… and you've left me here to grow old on my own."

"Even so, my thoughts have always been with you." Lianne let out a warm smile. "You and Evelun's children have grown up splendidly. Your bloodline will surely be blessed with many descendants." Then she place her hand on over her chest, looking sad and regretful. "I regret that I could not have given you the same..."

"Lianne..."

"Lianne, it wasn't your fault. No one saw that coming." Aether shook his head, looking sad at Lianne. "I should have noticed the Vermillion Apocalypse's sudden movement. If I have noticed sooner..." He looks down. "You and Dreichels could have..."

Lianne raised her hand. "It's not your fault either. No one would have seen that coming. But the least I can do... what we can do... is watch over your children and descendants from the shadow." She turn to Dreichels. "Now please, tell me. What was that earlier? That... horrible darkness hanging over you. How long has it been haunting you? And why?" She turn to Aether. "And you Aether... I know that look in your eye. You know what was that... do you?"

"Lianne..." Aether let out a sigh as the vision flashed to white.

---

The Next vision changes to a black screen.

"My name is Georg."

Until now again as it was George's voice this time.

"I never had a surname. But the chief told me to pick one, so I took out the 'G' from 'Gnome' and went with that. The idea of having 'G.G' as my initials sounded silly to me. Repetitive. That's really all there is to it." Then reveal a vision of George, Angelica, Towa and Crow in their school life, living a good happy school life as it was three years ago. "When I left the Workshop, my real memories were replaced when fake ones. Not that it was so bad. It was as if I'd become a character in a story. I played my role, going to school, making friends, unaware that i'd been regularly reporting back to the Workshop the entire time. They'd used the Faceless' Hypnosis techniques on me, having stolen them from Ouroboros. But honestly? It wasn't that bad, considering it was just a dream."

The Scene changes when Crow, Angelica, Towa, and George graduate together with Old Class VII, Morgan, Bowser, Junior, Koopalings, Mona, Aether, gathering for a graduation party for them.

"I'm forever grateful to King Bowser for giving a miracle to resurrect Crow back to life with the 1-Up Mushroom. A magical mushroom that performs miracles of resurrection. And even his act of conscripting Crow into his army, not only to keep him and Ordine safe from me, the chief, and even from the Chancellor... but also for me to take the time off to do things as I please." George's voice said. "The Chief was not happy with how things happened during the Infernal Castle, when he had Zoa Balor knock Prince Cedric's Eevee away, and toss him into the Vermillion Apocalypse to make sure they steal the Phantasmal Blaze Plan from Ouroboros."

The next scene was Alberich approaching George with Beheeyem by his eyes.

"My life was going smoothly until the time to reawaken my memories as Georg. The chief brought a Pokemon name Beheeyem to reawaken my memories... because the chief has need of me and told me my mission to place the bomb into the Courageous, knowing Prince Olivert will interfere. I did as I was ordered.' George's Voice said. "But... my heart tells me that Prince Olivert and his crew are suited for the Rivalries. That's why I gave them the chance." He said as the scene faded to black.

---

The next scene reveal a baby crying until the scene reveal to be a baby boy being comfort by his mother and father, who reveal to be Giliath Osborne.

"Now, now... There's a good boy." The woman said with a kind and warm smile as his father gentle patted his son's head.

"He has a gentle look to him, just like you. We should be glad he hasn't taken after me." Osborne chuckled. "Though I suppose if he had my rugged features, he'd have no end of admirers."

The woman giggled and look at him with a smile. "I'm sure. Besides, you resemble your father, too, don't you?" Then her look at her baby. "Though I might start to worry if you turn out half as oblivious as him."

"Hm? How do you mean?"

The woman giggled. "You see? But in a way, that's just what I love about your father." She turn to her husband. "Take care, dear. Best of luck with tomorrow's mission."

Osborne nodded with a warm smile. "I'll be off, then. I love you, Kasia." He turn to the baby. "And you as well... Rean." He said as the baby cooed.

The scene to where Lianne and Aether watching Dreichel's from a distance, with a smile on their faces.

"It's been 180 years since his passing... and only 30 years since his soul found its way back to this world. A wonderful wife and a healthy child... It seems there's no need for us to be concerned." Lianne thought as she and Aether begin to walk away. "But I fear the darkness still hangs over him. Considering Aether will be watching over him from far, perhaps it's time I reconsider that invitation..." The screen changed white before it faded to black.

---

The scene remained dark...

"Three Hundred years have passed since I watched over Erebonia, investigating both my sister and the origin of that black wave. I found out what's responsible for it." Aether thought as the scene change to Aether confronting the Black Entity.

"SO YOU'VE FOUND ME, HAVE YOU, GOLDEN WANDERER. FASTER THEN EXPECTED." The Black Entity grumbled

"You...! You're-!" Aether gasped. "What is the meaning of this?! You created that malevolent wave?! Why?! Do you realize what you have done?!"

"YES. BUT THAT'S PREVIOUSLY WHY I CREATED THAT CURSE. ALL FOR MY SAKE."

"Your sake? By creating conflict!?"

"THAT'S SOMETHING YOU DON'T NEED TO KNOW. IT'S A PITY I LACK POWER TO DESTROY YOU, KNOWING HOW MUCH THE THREAT YOU POSE. BUT JUST YOU WAIT, GOLDEN WANDERER... SOON... VICTORY WILL BE MINE AT LONG LAST... AND MY GOAL..." It said before it disappeared.

"Hey! Get back here!" Aether yelled but too late. "I could never forget that creature of darkness... But what was it trying to accomplish? I need to investigate this deeply..." He thought as the scene change to where Aether evacuating the people of Heimdallr from the Dark Dragon's miasma. "The first clue was the Dark Dragon's Arrival. Its body was completely covered in the majority of the curse. The Curse of the Great One... But that's far from the truth... I helped evacuate the people of Heimdallr as Roselia used her magic to halt the beast's advancement. I fought alongside Roselia, her witches and the Gnomes using their technology to halt and push the beast's back. We managed, as it fled to hide. We begin to split up to search for any remaining civilians who are trapped and escort them out." The scene changes when Aether spots a black aura on some of the Gnomes, following Roselia. "But then, I saw a black aura coming from members of the Gnome. They were following Roselia, which gave me a bad feeling. I follow them, and they turn on Roselia. I rushed to interfere... but I was too late." The scene changes where Aether is holding Roselia in her arms with tears in his eyes with fatal wounds to her chest as her clothes are covered in blood, and the Gnome assassins are killed by Aether. "Out of my rage... I kill the Gnomes to avenge her... and begin to question Geras the meaning of this betrayal. But Roselia stopped me. She foresaw this happening. She already made preparations if something were to happen to her. She told me that I mustn't blame the Gnomes... But a darker force was responsible. I knew who she was talking about." The scene changes when Aether talk to the chief of the gnomes who is a middle-aged man who looks shocked. "I talked to Geras and told him what happened. He was shocked by the response of his own clansman did to Roselia. But I told him that Roselia will be back through her means. But I told him to keep a close eye on the dark aura. Because that aura corrupts the mind." The scene change to black.

The Scene changes when Aether, Geras, and Roselia the second, talk to a man in red royal attire.

"Around 99 years has passed after the second Roselia inherited the first's Roselia's memory, her status as a Holy Beast and her mission. Emperor Hector declared to take back Heimdallr from the Dark Dragon... because they couldn't keep hiding while the Miasma spread further. Our option was to slay it for good. Geras convinces Roselia to help Hector pilot Testa-Rossa, believing that the Divine Knight is more than capable of winning. Roselia, who was still new to her role had no choice but to agree... because the miasma is too dangerous for the world to take in. What's more... Geras told us about the Great Twilight, a dark sinister plan to destroy the world. After learning that... I realized that was HE was after... I must find a way to stop him... and ask Geras how did he know this." The scene changes to Testa-Rossa slain Zoro-Agruga. "Emperor Hector managed to pass the trial. And begin to operate Testa-Rossa to slay the Dark Dragon once and for all. It was a hard battle to watch, until Hector finally slay it... but it came at a cost." The scene changes when Testa-Rossa is corrupted by the blood of the Dark Dragon, and its miasma spreads further as Aether who suddenly sprung wings reaches out to Testa-Rossa with a golden power. "Testa-Rossa was corrupted... and Hecter is unable to leave... I tried to rescue him, but he used all the strength he had left to push me back from falling into the miasma. Then became the Vermillion Apocalypse. The Vermillion Apocalypse and the remaining Miasma pose far too great." The scene changes when Argres, Roselia, Geras, and Aether fight against the Vermillion Apocalypse. "Argres sacrificed himself to absorb the curse to seal himself in the Primordial Ground, while me, Roselia, and Geras took on the Vermillion Apocalypse and sealed it away for good."

---

The next screen changes until as the scene changes to a man with a coat sitting on his desk and next to him is a familiar woman who looks sad.

"What, again?" A Familiar woman asked before letting out a deep sigh. "Honestly? You and your research projects. Well, whatever it's about this time, I'm sure you'll make it a success. Like always. Just try and make it back for the weekend, all right? My father would love to spend some time with you... As would Alisa." She said with a smile.

"I'll see what I can do. I love you, Irina." The man smiled as his wife Irina gave him a quick kiss before she took off. The man revealed his identity as Franz Reinford as he sighed. "Oh, boy... What in Aidios' name am I doing?" He shook his head. "Spending my days designing weapons instead of spending time with my wife and daughter?" He sighed as he look tired. "Not that these recent headaches are helping... Or these sudden drowsy spells. They couldn't find anything wrong with me at the clinic, though..." He said as he look down on the paper, revealing blueprints on the Panzer Soldots. "The Panzer Soldat... With any luck, it'll revolutionize the industry as we know it. But will it be good enough for the professor to approve as my final thesis?" Then he look surprised. "Wait... My 'final thesis'? Where did that thought even come from? It's almost as though... Am... Am I trying to leave this place?"

"YES... YOU ARE..." The Black Entity's voice said, causing Franz to gasp and look around, looking shocked and scared.

"W-Who's that?! Who's there?!" He yelled until he saw as the black ominous misty soul and multiple eye entity appeared over him, causing him to gasp.

"OPEN YOUR EYES, FRANZ LUGHMAN. I HAVE ALREADY CLAIMED THE KING. ALL THAT REMAINS IS HIS STEWARD. ACCEPT YOUR FATE." It said as a black mist with eyes then enter through his eyes, causing him to gasp, groan as he covered his face, trying to pull whatever it was but ultimately failed as his hands stop moving and uncovered his face and was unconscious as the black entity disappeared. Franz opened his eyes until he heard the door knock.

"Mr. Franz Reinford? Pardon my intrusion." A familiar voice said as she revealed to be Sharon enter the room as Franz got up, looking at her with a sudden smug look on his face. "I am one of the Enforcers of Ouroboros. No. IX, the Severing Elipse. I've come to retrieve the research reports, as per your agreement with Professor Novartis." She said, causing Franz to just stare at her, causing her to look confused. "You... are Mr. Reinford, correct? An affiliate of the Thirteen Factories?"

"Though that is indeed my name... It is not who I truly am." Franz shook his head and grinned. "Franz Reinfors was nothing more than a temporary alias. It is nothing compared to my true self. A name passed down for centuries from one servant of the Great One to another."

"I... I beg your pardon?" Sharon tilted her head until suddenly Zoa Balor appeared next to him and Sharon gasped, pulling out her sword and wires.

"I suppose I should cast my alias aside now... You couldn't have carried at a better time. I regret to inform you that I will not be relinquishing my research. Try and obtain it by force if you like, but be warned... It won't end well for you.

"Nngh..." Sharon growled as she took her stances... causing the scene to turn white until it faded to black.

---

The next scene show Aether helping building Heimdallr.

"After the Vermillion Apocalypse is over. Time slowly begin to rebuild for Heimdallr. The words Geras mention about the Great Twilight haunts me still. What's worse, he suddenly cut off contact with me, and the Hexen Clan. I don't know why..." Aether thought until the scene changed, revealing Geras approaching Aether.

"Aether." Geras said

"Ah? Geras!" Aether gasped. "Where have you been? Why did you suddenly cut off contact with us?"

"I'm sorry... something happened and... Please... let's talk in private..."

"I... I understand... Hold on just a moment." Aether said as he put away the hammer.

The scene changes to black until it changes to where Aether is ambushed by Archaisms with lethal weapons and Geras looking at him sinister.

"G-Geras?! What is the meaning of this?!" Aether exclaimed.

"Do forgive me, Aether. But I'm afraid we have to say our goodbyes. It would be better that way if you disappeared... for good." Geras said with a sinister grinned. "Fire."

The screen turned black and they heard multiple hacking and slashing until the scene changed where Aether was on top of Geras with his sword on his neck.

"Nngh!?" Geras grunted

"Geras! What has gotten into you?! First, you cut off contact with us, and now you're trying to kill me?! Why would you do this Geras?!" Aether yelled

"He he he... Like I'll say anything to you. I knew you were strong... but you always know how to surprise me."

"Geras... wait..." The scene changes when Aether's eyes widen. "Geras... why... do you possess that level of darkness? You never had... wait... no... You're not Geras!" Then Aether's expression was anger and glare. "Who are you?! What have you done with Geras?!"

"Ah... it seems I have been found out." Geras? expression let out a dark smug. "I am Black Alberich. I am the new Chief of the Gnomes after Geras passing."

"Black Alberich?! You killed him and took his body?! What are you?!" Aether demanded until he gasped. "Wait... I remember that darkness from a very long time... you're... you came from him, didn't you?!"

"That's right." Alberich admit as Zoa Balor appeared to attack Aether, forcing him to jump back as Alberich as he got back on his feet. "It would seem my mission failed. It's no wonder my master fears you. You truly are a cursed thorn, aren't you."

"Alberich, you bastard...! I will kill you and avenge Geras! You will never become the Chief of the Gnomes! Not will I draw breath!"

"Mwahahaha! You think you can kill me? Fool! Even if you slay this body of mine, I will pass on through the next Gnome worthy of me! I am unending!"

"THAT'S QUITE ENOUGH, ALBERICH." The Black Entity appeared behind him.

"YOU!" Aether snarl.

"Ah, master! What a pleasant surprise. Why are you here?" Alberich asked

"HE IS TOO MUCH FOR YOU. YOU HAVE YOUR GOAL TO PLAY."

"Understood Master. I'll make sure everything will go according to plan." Alberich bow and then disappeared

"Wait!" Aether zoom to kill him but too late. "Damn it!"

"HAHAHA..." The Black Entity laughed

"You bastard...! What are you planning to do with the Gnomes?!"

"I NEED FAITHFUL FOLLOWS. WHO IS BETTER THEN THE GNOMES?"

"You...! I won't let you use them for your plan!" Aether snarl.

"YOU'RE TOO LATE. THE GNOMES ARE ALREADY UNDER MY CONTROL UNDER ALBERICH'S COMMAND. THAT CLAN OF WITCHES WILL DO THEIR PART AS WELL FOR MY NEXT PLAN."

"You wouldn't dare...!"

"HAHAHA. AND HOW ARE YOU GOING TO STOP ME? I WILL BECOME THE ULTIMATE BEING. AND WHEN I DO, NOTHING WILL STOP ME. NOT EVEN YOU. HEHEHE...HAHAHAHAHAHA!" The Black Entity laughed as the scene faded to black.

---

The next scene revealed he reveal to be Osborne who was a young boy, with him was another young boy as they chat with each other, smiling.

"Looking back, I've experienced more than my fair share of misfortune. My parents were wealthy landowners in the north, but an avalanche claimed them while I was still young. By some stroke of fate, I was taken in by the Baron of Ymir, and sent to Thors Military Academy." Osborne's said until the scene change to him in his age of thirty's... seeing two friends of his, both in military uniform, Olaf and Vandyke. "As my years went by, my career progressed well, granting me many close friends along the way. And then, well into my thirties..." Then the scene change to revealing Kasia who was looking at him with a warm smile on her face. "I met her: the woman who would become my wife. Oh, I experienced my fair share of teasing, but in spite of that, our union was blessed." He said as the scene faded to black. "It was around that time, however... that I started hearing the voice."

"RELINQUISH IT TO ME..." The Dark sinister voice of the Black Entity demanded. "IT BELONGS TO ME... YOUR SOUL... YOUR ENTIRE BEING... YES... YEEESSSS..."

"Unable to seek anyone's counsel, I tried to seal it deep within my heart. By the time we'd married, and our son was born, the voice had faded into only the faintest of thoughts. But no sooner could I breathe a sigh of relief... had it returned? At the very worst point of my wretched life."

The scene changes to red, revealing a burning house, his son who was five years old was plunger by the debris, wounded deeply in his head, and his wife, nearly dying at the loss of blood as her eyes slowly looking dull, causing Osborne to shaken with fear and disbelief.

"Thank the Goddess... you're okay..." Kasia slowly raising her hand to touch's Giliath's cheek. "Please, Giliath... I beg of you... ...save... our child..." She said until her eyes faded no more... unmoving... and sign of life.

Osborne shaken with fear, turn to his son and hold him in his arms with the fatal wounds with the wood on his chest. "NOOOOOO!" He yelled to the sky. "Why?! Damn you, Arundel! Why did Kasia and my son ever do to you!? I'm your enemy! I'm the one you want!" The scene change as Osborne let out a cry, holding Young Rean in his arm. "Aidios, please! Someone answer me! Goddess or field, I don't care! I'll do anything take me instead, if you must! Just please... spare our son's life!"

"OH, HOW LONG I'VE WAITED TO HEAR THOSE WORDS." The Black Entity's voice said as Osborne made a small gasp as he turn and see a sinister looking Divine Knight, hovering over him. "WAITED AND WAITED, DREICHELS... FOR TWO-HUNDRED LONG YEARS. THIS TIME, YOU WILL BE MY AWAKENER. NOT THE ASHEN KNIGHT'S." It offer it's hand. "AGREE, AND I WILL DELIVER YOUR SON FROM DEATH."

Osborne look in disbelief. "...It was you... You're the one who did this... All of it!" He then gave the sinister looking entity a glare of hatred. "But I don't care anymore... Take my body. Take my soul! Do what you will! So long as you save my son... It doesn't matter what happens to me! Ebon Knight, Ishmelga!"

The Black Entity let out a sinister grin behind its shadowing unseen mouth, causing the scene to fade to black. "YES... YEEESSSSS..."

---

The scene change to Osborne and Xehanort who was in a private room.

"Ah, Master Xehanort, welcome. Do forgive me for calling you while you were busy." Osborne greeted

"There's no need for that, Osborne. But what brought you to call me? Not unless this has something to do with the Organization reveal to the world?" Xehanort asked

"Hahaha. Far from it. However, I am rather surprised that the heroes would be bold enough to alert the world of your existence. But even if that's the case, I doubt they're capable of doing anything of someone of your power."

"Quite right. I must say, your son is turning into a fine young man for surviving that warzone in Fodlan with his students."

"Did he now?" Osborne mused. "Haha. I see he's turning into quite a man already if he was able to survive the horrors of war. Espcually with the Heartless that you and the Agarthans sent out. But enough about that. Is everything going according to your plan?"

"Yes. Everything is going accordingly. I resume the same to you?" Xehanort asked.

"Indeed. And yet, we're waiting for the right time. But who knows when that will happen? But If there is one thing I do make a request."

"And that would be?"

"Should the time when you draw Kingdom Hearts with the X-blade in hand and when you reset this universe to your own image, I would like you to spare Zemuria... but change one thing... Remove Ishmelga's existence completely." Osborne requested.

"Oh? Are you certain you should be making this request of me? Isn't he like to eavesdrop?" Xehanort mused

"As if he would do anything about it, or even knows. He's mostly isolated himself now ever since I became his Awakener. Besides, I grew tired of him... Everything about him just makes me want to destroy him after everything he took from me, just so I become his Awakener. Zemuria is better off without him. There are times that I always wonder and dream of what it would be like if Ishmelga and his curse never existed. Erebonia may be a better nation. That Lechter, Claire, and all of the people here would have lived happier lives without Ishmelga's dark influence. And I would be living a happy life with my wife... and my son, Rean. Watching him grow into a fine young man, making friends, teaching him swordsmanship, just as I dream of. But that will never happen. All of that was but a dream. Everything Ishmelga has done and forced my hand to do, just tore pieces of my humanity away. There is no hope for a man like me. I'm sure my soul awaits to be called into Gehenna after all the things I've done. And I don't want my beloved son to bear the full weight of the curse's power. That is why I pray to Adios, hoping that Rean would be apart of this horrible fate. That's why I like to make that request... to fix Zemuria by removing all of Ishmelga's actions and spare it in the end. Even if I don't find myself reincarnated or not, or find my way back to the dream I always envisioned, the world will be better. Can you do that?"

"Of course. It's within my capability after I claim Kingdom Hearts. And after hearing that. It's clear we share something similar. Let's hope your son and the rest of those heroes don't get in the way though."

"It's without question that there is a high chance Sora, Class VII, and all the heroes of this world will stop you. But a shrew man like yourselves prepared for everything. That is why I hope and pray that you will succeed." Osborne said as the scene faded to white before it faded to black.

---

"And thus, that is how the story ends, where the warrior king reclaims his home, restores the land, brings back harmony, and live happily ever after with his becoming wife." A familiar voice said as the scene revealed to be Zhongli who is reading a book young boy who resembles Levi as he was nine years old.

The little boy yawns and snuggles himself. "What a lovely story... do you think there is a place like that, Grandpa?"

"Anything is possible, Levi. Now it's time for bed. Goodnight." Zhongli smiled, kiss his forehead and turn off the lights as Young Levi sleep peacefully.

The scene change as Zhongli leave Young Levi's room and quietly close the door.

"Hehe, what a lovely story you read to him, Lapis." Another familiar voice said as the scene reveal to be Venti, entering from the window.

"Barbatos, you are aware I have a door." Zhongli sighed. "But what brings you here on this night? If you come to see our youngest brother, then you're too late. He's asleep. However, I would rather you inform me in advance, and remove your stretch of alcohol."

"Aw, always so serious with you. Can you live a little like I do? You know, be the fun sibling?" Venti sighed.

"Barbatos, just get to the point of why you're here."

"Ah, right. I didn't came here to see sweet Levi. But I'm not the only one who's here." Venti said, as the scene change to him supporting his arm on his knee until the door knock as Zhongli open it, revealing Aether, accompanied by Ei, Miko, Nahida and few other characters.

"My, this is rather a surprise... Aether, Beelzebul, Miko, Buer, Focalors, and Murata? What brought you all here?" Zhongli asked

"Forgive us for not calling you sooner, but Aether requested us to come. Is Levi awake?" Ei asked

"Just feel asleep actually. Come in. I'll prepare some tea. Before you ask, Barbatos, no I'm not giving you alcohol."

"Aw." Venti pouted as the scene change to where they came in and sit down.

"Now what do I owe this visit?" Zhongli asked as he begin to make tea.

"Morax, how is Levi's training going? Did he reclaim some of his powers as a Titan?" Aether asked

"That came out of nowhere. But a small portion of it, yes. Levi still needs time to reclaim his full power. Why do you ask?"

"It's what Aether told us, about the fate of the world. What's more, someone is misusing the Septium Veins for this nefarious plot." Nahida answered

"What? Are you certain?" Zhongli asked as the scene change to where he pass the tea to his guests and sit down with them.

Ei nodded "It is as she said. This culprit revealed by Aether was Ishmelga, the Ebon Knight."

"The Ebon Knight? That Ebon Knight the humans created from the fusion of the Sept-Terrion of Fire and Earth after splitting seven pieces?" The young girl with whitish blue hair, with heterochromatic eyes with light blue on her right eye and dark blue on her left.

"That's the one. The one I talk about with the Great Twilight. And involving those Divine Knights." Aether nodded. "It's planning on that Rivalrie of the Seven ritual."

"Ah so that is what he wants, hm?" Miko mused. "And you need Levi's power to purge Ishmelga?"

"That's right. Is he strong enough to defeat him?"

"At his current state, no. I don't know how long it will be. But I can promise you it won't take long until his powers can now fully function." Zhongli answered "However, I need to teach him how to limit his powers, including his transformation as he grows in power as he grows older. I understand you wish to save this world from destruction, but it takes time for Levi to make a full recovery due to our misguided actions. We don't want to make the same mistake as we did in the Archon War."

"I know. Sorry for asking..." Aether sighed. "But Levi... no... Marbas still need time to learn more about the world right?"

"Right. Don't worry. He's old enough to learn about this world created from our atonement. And when his memories someday return, we hope we can watch this world from the distance from the stars."

"I hope that day comes soon... It doesn't feel right to me now after what we have done to cause Marbas to make that sacrifice." Ei sighed

"Nor can I. I hope someday he can forgive us." Venti sighed

"I think he will. After all, Marbas is a kind-hearted Titan. He will forgive you. And probably ask you to please don't do that again." Aether smiled

"Hehe... I hope your right." Nahida smiled as the scene faded to black and then white.

(BGM ended)

(Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia ost - Vestiges)

The visions from the Spectral Moon Mirror then faded as everyone witnessed the shock of learning the truth at long last.

"There it is, then...the whole truth." Crow said.

"So the duel the boss died in was rigged from the start." Fie added.

Sara nodded. "By Black Alberich, but even he was just a puppet."

"George too. Though his circumstances were a bit different." Emma said. "But it seems our suspicious of the Golden Wanderer's identity was Aether. Right, Grandmother." Emma turn to Roselia.

Roselia let out a sigh. "I can no longer hide it. Yes. Aether is the Golden Wanderer. The same person you have been searching for answers, including myself. But I never knew that he confronted the very culprit a few times. However, the last two..."

"One was the chancellor having some secret conversation with Xehanort and..." Machias turn to Levi and Venti, noticing Levi's shock look while Venti let out a sigh as he palm face.

"T-Titan...?" Levi asked with disbelief. "I'm a... Titan... And... Venti..." Levi turn his head to him. "...you..."

"Oh dear..." Venti sighed. "I did not expect the Spectral Moon Mirror to reveal that. I guess I can't hide it anymore now. Along with Zhongli and the others. I'm sure many of you have questions... big ones. Including you, Levi... But... That will have to wait until you get them from Zhongli." Venti turn to them. "Because I won't say anything until he, and the others are presence."

"Venti..." Altina look in disbelief.

Rean lower his head. "All right. We'll have much to discuss with you." He raise his head. "But for now... we all saw what happened to Alisa's father, right?"

"Yeah... He was taken over by a persona... the chief of the Gnomes..." Celine said before she shook her head. "No... by Black Alberich."

"So that is who he is..." Roselia mused. "An astral parasite created by Ishmelga... And that's how the first Roselia died... Including Geras... the true Chief of the Gnomes before being replaced by Albeirch. I suspect it lives on by becoming one with any descendant of the Gnomes it seems worthy."

"Father..." Alisa said quietly.

"We also learned the truth about Arianrhod...or Lianne Sandlot, as she was once known. Including Aether's identity as the Golden Wanderer." Laura said. "Lianne spent 250 years with Aether watching over the Empire...as well as the man she loved most."

"And Aether spent over 1200 years watching over Erebonia, helping it build from the ground ups, and even selected Reise Arnor with the Holy Beasts... becoming its first Emperor." Machias added

"They're both saints in the truest sense of the world." Kurt nodded.

"But that means the guy she spent all that time watching over is..." Juna paused.

"I admit. I did have my suspicions." Jusis said. "Why for instance, did Emperor Eugent go to such lengths to support the chancellor?"

"You're right, it all makes sense now." Elliot added. "His Majesty had the entire truth in his hands this whole time, the Black Records!"

"He knew that the Lionheart Emperor, founder of Thors, Father of the Renaissance, and victor of the War of the Lions, 250 years back...had been reborn as Giliath Osborne, the Blood and Iron Chancellor himself." Gaius stated.

"You're right... Osborne is Dreichel's reincarnation." Levi muttered

"Yeah." Rean nodded.

"To be honest... I never thought that reincarnation would be possible until I learned about the multiple worlds of Zelda in Smash Bros Castle. Where Link, Zelda, Ganondorf, and Impa were reincarnated several times. And another from Ozma." Altina said.

"Damn... of all the paranormal bullcrap... I thought I had seen it all by now..." Ash grumbled.

"Of all the things for the visions to show us..." Roselia clenches her teeth and fist of anger. "Those witless fools! Why didn't Lianne, Aether and Dreichels come to me?! Did they not say we were friends?! Was it all just a lie?! As for you, Aether... How dare you hid this from me! You knew the entire truth, and you didn't even let me in! I could have been more insightful if you told me! No...I am the one at fault. How could I have been so blind for centuries?"

"Grandmother..." Emma said, quietly

"Rose." Celine muttered quietly.

(BGM ended)

(Hyrule Warriors Age of Calamity ost - Disquiet)

"Roselia, Venti." Rean called out to them. " What can you tell us about this... Ishmelga?"

"The Ebon Knight." Altina replied

"All signs point to him being the one behind all this… don't they?" Juna asked.

"It radiates an aura unlike any other Divine Knight we've encountered." Kurt added.

"I do not know..." Roselia answered. "This particular Divine Knight has remained mostly hidden for over a thousand years. It was absent for both of War of the Lions 250 years ago and the Dark Dragon's appearance 900 years ago." Roselia turn to Venti. "Why not ask our Bard here? Considering he knew more than me."

"Throwing me under the spotlight, huh? Well a bard such as myself is flattered." Venti giggled.

"Venti..." Altina giving him a dirty look.

"All right, all right. I'll talk. This one I can explain." Venti scratch his hair as he sigh before he look serious. "Ishmelga is the mastermind behind all the current events that happened throughout Erebonia's dark history. And I mean everything." He went to his thinking pose that Kurt does. "I wasn't at Zemuria at the time... But Aether has personally investigated all incidents and events that happened. The Dark Dragon's Arrival, The cursing of Argres and Testa-Rossa. The Dark Ages War where Ordine, Valimar, Zector, Argreion, and El-Prado made their appearance." Then he took a breath and fold his arms. "The War of the Lions, the "devil" who whispered into Major Lechter's father, the accident with the car crash took the lives of Major Claire's father, mother, and little brother named Emil. The Hamel Tragedy, the aircraft accident back in Crossbell, the one who whispered to Machias's cousin to took her life. What happened to someone to the Imperial Liberation Force member named Vulcan... I think... with his Jaeger Corp: Arngarmr. The event that happened in Jurai. The proxy war in remote Erebonia between a squabbling corporation and a competing noble family, where the Northern Jaegers and Nidhogg fight each other... The maritime accident where Musse's parents died... the civil war, occupied Crossbell, and even Ash shooting the Emperor." He took another breath. "Man, talking about so many events is taking my breath away. But them aside... Aether kept a notebook of other events that happened in Erebonia... all... caused by Ishmelga."

"No way…" Machias gulp. "Elsa was whispered by the Ebon Knight... so that's why..."

"Even that time when I was hired..." Sara clenc her teeth.

"So... even my parent's death was the Ebon Knight's doing..." Musse look down

"Valimar, Ordine, and all the other Divine Knights we've seen thus far have each had their own conscious mind." Gaius said. "Venti... by any chance... was Ishmelga's mind was warped by malice, amassing it as a kind of power?"

Venti nodded "Yep. Aether can confirm it himself. However, that's all I know so far. If you want to know more, you can talk to Aether, Ei, Miko, Nahida or Zhongli. They know more than I do about Ishmelga."

"After what we saw in Aether's perspective... everything explains it. The Gnomes and the Hexen Clan have been at odds from the very start. Even still, we managed to reach a compromise 1,200 years ago." Emma said. "We stood side by as we sealed off the Great One. We worked arm in arm to help found the Empire. And 800 years ago, after the reclamation of the capital, the Gnomes suddenly broke off all contact with us and him. Until we discovered from his vision that Geras... the true Chief of the Gnomes was murdered by the Ebon Knight and replaced him with Alberich."

"Yeah. It taken over the Gnomes and made them into its followers." Crow added. "No... after what we witness and what Aether thinks, he made them into his brainwashed minions."

Fie nodded. "And so, they got involved with all sorts of shady stuff. Including the boss' death. Moving their evil plans forward the whole time."

Sara nodded "Yeah... Even now... That's the curse that Alberich was talking about."

"But what's its end goal? Bringing back the Great One?" Alisa asked. "Or is it trying to win the Rivalry of the Seven, to become the Great One itself?"

"Is that what the OZ units were created for? What I was created for?" Altina added. "What Millium...gave her life for?"

"Just the thought of it make me sick..." Juna said.

"I am going to kill him..." Levi clenched his teeth and his fist. "That unholy abomination doesn't deserve any shred of mercy! It needs to die in agony ten-fold after all of the things it's done!"

"Agreed..." Rean agreed as his cursed power surfaced, clenching his fist out of pure rage as everyone look. "That thing is the reason for all this suffering...not only in Erebonia, but in every country surrounding it. The Lance Maiden, and the Jaeger King were all made into immortals and forced into its game. It took Millium's life, and the lives of so many others. Major Lechter's father...Major Claire's family, and others still...innocent people, all made into its victims. Alisa's father...George... my mother... Even Chancellor Osborne himself."

(BGM ended)

"Calm yourself, my awakener." Valimar then appeared as a wave of light surrounded the group.

"Valimar?!" Elliot gasped.

Alisa look at the wave of light. "What is this? It feel so... soothing..."

Then the wave of light transports everyone into an unknown realm where the clouds behind move in circles and a ray of light appear from above.

(Fire Emblem Warriors Three Hopes ost - Thinking of You)

"Where are we?!" Juna asked.

"Is this the phase space where Divine Knights and Awakeners make their contracts?" Celine guessed.

"Nah, I get the feelin' we're somewhere else entirely." Crow answered.

"Valimar...?" Rean reached out his hand to his Divine Knight. "You can speak again? This is... different from when we spoke back in the Workshop. Isn't it?"

"Correct. Lady Palutena has been examining me to see the way to remove the curse from its grip on me. Progress is going smoothly as the curse has temporarily loosened its grip. My means of expression remain limited, however. It won't be along until I'm able to speak freely once more."

"I hope so..." Rean let out a warm smile as he retracted his arm. "I should give Palutena my thanks."

"Hear my words, Awakener, and secondary contractors. The Ebon Knight is not the only one to blame for all the tragedies you named. Mankind's weakness contributed to bringing them about. The Golden Wanderer knew this fact as he hope to inspired Mankind to overcome that weakness. If you fail to understand this, you have no hope of prevailing in the Rivalries ahead... Even with the sword." Valimar raised his head as the Sword of the End appeared over everyone.

Valimar look at Rean and nodded as he respond in kind. Rean begin to enter Valimar's cockpit, operating him to reach the Sword of the End and grasp it. A piece of light enter the golden crystal within Rean's heart as the Sword of the End red change to blue.

(BGM ended)

"Awright! It worked! Just like Palutena said!" A familiar cheerful voice shout as an astral projection of Millium appeared.

(Blazblue ost - Stardust Memory)

"Millim!" Jusis and Altina exclaimed as tears from Altina surfaced.

"Haha... Hey, guys... Did'ja miss me?" Millium asked. "I've been watching over you guys the whole time. Every time you got in a pickle, and every time you whopped your way right out of it!" She then sighed. "Guess I should say sorry, though... for not being strong enough. I wanted to be able to say I saved the day... That I helped protect everyone. But I never thought I'd cause you guys all this grief, instead..."

"Come on, Millium... You don't have to apologize..." Levi wipe his tears.

"Levi's right." Jusis wipe his tears as well. "You did more for us than we ever could've asked!"

"I'm guessing the two of you appeared to tell us something important... Am I right?" Rean asked

Millium nodded. "Yeah. Being stuck like this helped us finally figure a few things out. First off, you are right about the Rivalries being struggles for power between the Divine Knights. But there's also another issue involving the Immortals like the Jaeger King and the Steel Maiden. I'm sure you won't like this, Fie... but if we were to defeat him in the Rivalries... He might leave this world."

"Ah..." Fie look sad.

"In other words... If we defeat an Immortal... he'll died." Levi sighed.

"Fie..." Laura turn to her.

"But there is some bright side to this. If you can make the Jaeger King into your Kin, and even the Steel Maiden, we guess that they might be somewhat like your kin like Rean did with Crow, they might be living in borrow time." Millium said. "Though when it comes to the end of the Great Twilight..."

"They'll leave this world..." Levi finished. "Because they'll be living in borrowed time until the Great Twilight is over... is that is what you're saying?"

"Yeah..."

"There is one more thing to mention regarding the Ebon Knight. His power is immense, one might say beyond the reach or understanding of this realm. But in truth, his powers is akin to that of god-like. He could defeat every one of us. However, this would not make him whole again. He requires a worthy opponent. I imagine Aether knew this. He had been searching for the Ebon Knight for a millennium and defeated him with his own hands. I know not how, but the possibility of him being an Awakener does not match. The only hypothesis we could come up with is if he's some sort of being with immense power and skill to rival or even surpass the Ebon Knight. Which is why he's been avoiding him at all costs and coming up with solutions to eliminate him. While each attention failed, so too did the Ebon Knight grow anxious. What's more, the Ebon Knights also is anxious due to the presence of Gods in this world. He has been avoiding being sighted by each, for they too pose much of a threat to him. That is why he remains hidden. As such, I expect the following will occur... The Ebon Knight will wait until one knight has absorbed the power of the other five, in order to have his worthy opponent. That is why Ishmelga remains hidden for the Rivalries' sake. But it is also for this reason that Ishmelga could potentially be defeated." Valimar explained

"Yeah. He doesn't want to face gods or goddess, or any being with immense power because he's afraid of them. And that their power can wipe Ishmelga for good. He will only show himself during the Rivalries sake, as Valimar said." Millium agreed. "The Jaeger's King's Palatinte Knight, the Steel Maiden's Argent Knight, the Prince's Vermillion Knight, Rufus's Auric Knight, and Rean's Ashen Knight, partnered with Crow's Azure Knight. It'll be one of them who'll be going toe-to-toe with the Ebon Knight."

"I thought so… " Levi rub his chin. "That battle against Crow is just a previews. Then its just like Prince Olivert guess. The Rivalries are the key to our victory against the Ebon Knight. If we somehow make the Rivalries start early before the War even starts... we can destroy the Ebon Knight and the curse once and for all."

"Maybe we can convince the boss to join us." Fie said with some hope of her.

Laura nodded "Perhaps... And from what we saw in those visions, there could certainly remain a chance to recruit the Steel Maiden to our side as well."

"That's right! They, of all people, should understand what it is we're fighting for!" Machias stated

"We can make it work! I'm sure of it!" Juna nodded

"Ain't gonna be easy, but... least we finally got some light at the end of this tunnel." Ash nodded.

"Maybe so, but I somehow doubt Rufus or the prince will be half as eager to team up with us." Sara reminded

"So long as Valimar can win the Rivalries and absorb the power of their Knights, it shouldn't pose too much of a problem." Musse told them.

"Lucky for us, we have countless allies and more power. But if we can get more allies... we might actually have a shot against Chancellor Osborne." Alisa nodded

"Our odds may be slim.. but this is our best chance to defeat Ishmelga for good!" Kurt added

"I've made my decision, Valimar. Not as the Sacrifice, and not as an ogre, but as myself." Rean said. "We're going to see these Rivalries through to the very end! With you and Millium at our side!"

"Well said, my Awakener." Valimar replied.

"That's what I like to hear!" Millium said. "I'll be right there with you all the way!"

Then Valimar and Millium begin to fade away.

"Millium?! Stop! Don't go!" Jusis yelled

"Please, wait! There's still so much I have to say!" Altina added

"C'mon, guys... You don't hafta worry. I'm sure Palutena is working on letting me see you guys. Making even make me hold again, like she did with Sothis. I'll still be with you, even if you can't see me. Remember! We're all a team! No matter what happens!"

(BGM ended)

Then a white flash of light engulp the area until everyone was taken back to the alter.

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

"That... wasn't just a dream, was it?" Elliot asked.

"No. Far from it." Levi said, looking at the Sword of the End as Rean exit from Valimar's cockpit. "I thought I sense Millium's presence was just my imagination. But she was with us the entire time."

"My big sister..." Altina wipe her tears.

"She's come such a long way..." Machias smiled. "I can hardly believe it."

"What exactly was that, Grandmother?" Emma asked.

"A liminal space between dreams and reality, bestowed onto you by the Spectral Moon Mirror." Roselia replied. "Something similar happened back when I inherited my predecessor's responsibilities. The mirror has granted us more than expected. All those centuries of watching over it were well worth it."

Celine nodded. "Yeah, they really were."

"Well if you ask me, I think we're ready to head back." Levi said as he wrap his arms around my neck. "But before that, I hate to steal Rean's thunder, but we wanna thank you for everything, Roselia, Emma, and Celine. As well as Vita, Mona, Konoe, Trinity, Kagura, Hakumen, Aurelia and Jubei for the help. Valimar may have gone silent for now, but we will speak to him and Millium soon. I believe we can finally face the rest of our challenges with no more doubts in our minds. Whatever we have to face in the days to come, we will triumph together! As Class VII, with our friends all over this world and as members of the Radiant Wings!"

"Probably woulda been screwed without you witches, helpin' out, though." Ash said. "Guess that's worth a thanks or two."

"Defintely." Alisa agreed. "I'm finally ready to face my father and Sharon again."

"Yeah." Fie nodded. "We owe you guys. Big time."

"You guys…" Emma smiled

"You're making way too big a deal over it. I didn't do anything." Celine replied. "But I guess…. I'm glad things worked out."

Roselia sighed in relief. "It feels as though several centuries of weight has been lifted from my shoulders. As for the new facts that were revealed to us, I will let Vita, Master Yen Sid, Rachel, and Thomas Lysander know what they should."

"That will be a great help. Thank you." Gaius smiled

"I was happy I was able to carry out my duty as a wandering witch. But I couldn't have done it if our family hadn't worked so hard to protect this sacred place." Emma said before she took Roselia's hands. "So thank you, Grandmother. For guiding our clan for so many years. And more than...for making me the person I am today."

"J-Just where is all this coming from!? What do you think you're doing?!" Roselia blushed. "Are you trying to bring your poor granny to tears? This old heart of mine can only take so many surprises."

"My word." Celine said.

"Still… this is really a shocking truth indeed…" Levi look at his hand. "I finally find out who I really am. I'm not even a human... but a Titan. So this is what Ansem said about me not being human."

"Levi…" Emma sadden.

"Titans are a race of Gods. Celestial Giants with immense power that can control the cosmos, even worlds. Legends say that Titans can even change the reality of the world. But all of that was just myths... I never thought the possibility of Titans even existed. But... that did explain that different presence I felt from Levi." Roselia mused before turning to Venti. "And it also seems our Bard here is one of those Titans."

Venti nervously scratch his hair. "Aw, are you guys going to be mad at me for hiding this secret? Oh come on, can you blame me? I mean who would even believe me if I told them that I was a Titan? But even if I did. It would cause quite a shock. You have to understand, right?"

Rean sighed. "Well... I suppose we shouldn't blame you. Your reason for that is clear. Still, there is much we need to talk to you, Venti. Including Zhongli, Ei, Aether, Miko and Nahida. I'm sure Albedo also knew this. Of course, to Xehanort too."

"Yeah." Levi nodded. "This time, I will get answers to learn more about myself. And exactly what you all mean back in those visions. The others will be shocked. But we should bring them the news."

Rean nodded. "Right. Best not to keep them waiting any longer. Let's be off. To the Courageous II!"

Everyone nodded and then begin to head back to the Courageous II, with resolve, determination and questions that need answers.

---

Oh my god... it took so long to make this! Many chapters are going to be long... I just knew it. But wow! Talking about a revelation, right? Levi's true identity, even some hidden stories from Aether, and that secret conversation with Osborne and Xehanort. What did you all think?

Oh yeah... Here are the data for certain fighters.

Mona: One of Bowser's Vassels and a powerful astrologist, aiding Roselia by Vita's request. Makes a formidable pair with Vita as one of the trails.

HP:322500

Nine the Phantom: The Strongest Witch with immense magical power, and members of the Six Heroes. Aiding Roselia at Vita's request. Formidable in combat not just magic alone.

HP:355300

Trinity Glassfile: One of the Six Heroes and a powerful mage with defensive magic. Aiding Roselia by Vita's request. Her Staff chan change form into any projections and blunt weapons of her choosing.

HP:322500

Hakumen: One of the Six Heroes and a warrior with immense skills in combat. Fights Class VII as one of the trials for the reflecting pool.

HP: 355300

Kagura: The Black Knight and a warrior with immense skills with body and mind. Makes a formidable pair with the Aurelia as an indomitable force.

HP: 324300

Jubei: A Master swordsman and One of the Six Heroes, train Ragna back when he was young. Immense skills to surpass human capabilties and act as a trail for Class VII.

HP: 322500