Author's Note: Welcome, to the final season of this story! It's been a very long journey, one that I'm happy to have shared with all of you. And now, it's time to finally reach the finale. But not really. You'll see what I mean. So let's not wait any further and dive in. And yes, I made personal intros and endings for this season. They will be at the beginning of each chapter, so feel free to read past them once you gotten used to them. It's just to add a special feeling for this season.

Extra note: No reviews in this chapter, since it's a fresh season and it's been so long since the last chapter. But don't worry! I read them all! And I will start answering them again next chapter!

Chapter 142
The Countdown Begins

Hazama sunk to the bottom of the ocean, his Ryuki armor in pieces and his body covered in wounds. Several figures watched from the surface, all clad in Rider armors. The dark-haired man grimaced, clenching the Gold Deck in his hand.

"You're thinking about it, my dear Hazama." He heard the almost jolly voice in his hand. Someone who had the upper hand. And right now, he had his life in his hands."Either you use it, or you die a meaningless death. Bragard will use the Decks to bring the world to its knees...Unfortunately, there is no way to tell how he will be stopped. Not unless...You use my power."

"And if I use it...? What's the catch?" Hazama asked, wanting to find more answers."I know freeing you from your flask isn't enough for you. You...want more, don't you, Odin? So say I use your power...what will happen?"

"I'll be frank with you. Think of it as a favor from freeing me from my imprisonment. And I need you to accept the contract we will forge. It's an absolute contract. You see, I will take over your body. And you will cease to exist. Your personality, memories and your very own being will no longer exist. Your body will become mine. In return, however, I can temporarily give you the power to wipe out all your enemies. While the process is completed, you can kill all of them. Slaughter them and stop them from harming your family...or your beloved world. Not a bad deal, right?"

"And how long will that be? The time I'd have before I...disappear?"

"About a minute."

"I see..." Hazama chuckled."Ah...So, either way, I'll never see Hajime or Setsuna again...or Kaoru. God...did Miyu and Hazuki survive that shipwreck...?"

"You should decide soon. It seems they're about to attack once more."

"I'll do it," Hazama said without missing a beat.

"Are you sure?" Odin asked, almost bewildered."You do realize that you will no longer exist, right? And you don't know my full intentions. For all you know, I could do the same thing Bragard wants to do."

"Maybe...maybe, but...I'm willing to put my faith in the future. You might think it's stupid, but...I have a feeling."

"Feeling? What feeling?"

"That my Boy Wonder will do wonders for this world. So I'm not afraid to take a gamble for the world." Hazama responded with a smirk."I'll take the deal."

Odin hummed, genuinely surprised by the human's decision. He regretted having traded his omniscience. He wanted to at least tell him how futile his wishes were.

"But you know...Odin?"

"Yes?"

"You should try to lie a little." Hazama laughed."You're lucky I'm stupid enough to accept this deal."

"I'm not a liar. Much less a trickster."

Hajime sat in the empty void, legs crossed, as he stared at the seemingly unlimited void. Next to him, was Dragreder, who seemed content with just resting on the floor, breathing loudly. The raven-haired reached out to pet his companion on his snout.

"You look calm."

"Well...I try to be." Hajime shrugged at the white figure in the sky."No point in freaking out. I can't afford to do that. Not anymore."

"Do you see yourself as a figure your friends look up to? Perhaps one for hope?"

"I...well, I don't want to sound like I'm boasting or bragging." Hajime rubbed his nape."But...I think some of them do."

"I see. So that would explain why you can't afford to shed more tears."

"That and..." Hajime stared at his palm."I've already shed all the tears I needed. Now, it's time to make sure the others don't have a reason to cry."

"I expected that kind of answer from you. And yet, you don't fail to surprise me."

"Thanks, I guess." Hajime shrugged."So...I guess you're not going to tell me who you are today either?"

"As I have said...All will be revealed in due time. Believe in yourself."

"Huh? What does that-"

Several weeks before World War 3...

Hajime snapped awake, feeling someone clinging to his arm so hard it was hurting him. He shifted to his left, noticing Hibiki was trembling in fear. He examined the other people around them. Some of them were startled, and some of them looked neutral. And a couple looked bored.

'That's right...I fell asleep.' Hajime rubbed his eyes.

"So, how was that scary story? One of my favorites, if you ask me." Hamaguchi grinned, rubbing his nose. Kirika was in the same situation as Hibiki, clinging to Hamaguchi. She wasn't very fond of horror stories, in contrast to Shirabe, who looked deep in thought.

Bragi switched the light switch back on with a neutral expression.

"Yeah, yeah. Typical ghost girl with the scissors." Chris groaned."Everyone knows this story."

"And yet, I got some reactions."

"To be fair, you got reactions from people who don't like ghost tales." Yosuke shrugged.

"I don't know." Yumi sheepishly shrugged."I hear it all the time and it still spooks me."

"I hadn't heard that one in a long time." Amber smiled."It brings back memories when my friends and I used to sit outside late at night and tell horror stories."

"So...are ghosts like Noise or something? Mirror Monsters?" Tobias pondered.

"They're not real," Chris said, leaving no room for argument.

"Yes, they are." Hamaguchi sharply countered.

"Okay. Let's ask." Chris addressed the bunny on Miku's lap."Hey, Beel, are ghosts real or not?"

"Huh? Why are you asking me?"

"Because out of everyone here, you would know."

"Is it because I'm a demon?" Beelzebub huffed."That's racist."

"So you don't know." Chris trailed off."That's a shame. I was really counting on you. But I guess it can't be helped. It's fine if you don't know."

"What?! Of course, I know!" He immediately changed his tone, making Miku giggle."Look, ghosts, as you describe them, don't exist. Well, I guess there are spirits in pain and whatnot. But you actually see them. As in, you can interact with them."

"Is it just me or did that not answer anything?" Raiden deadpanned.

"No. I'm still just as lost as before." Elsa muttered."Probably even more so-de-arimasu."

"Well, I think it's time for the cake." Tsubasa clapped her hands, earning everyone's attention."Kuroiwa, why don't you get ready?"

"I brought the camera!" Elfnein beamed."Elsa-chan, do you want to take the picture?"

"Huh? Me?"

"Well, you said Allister got you into photographing, right?" Elfnein smiled."I figured you could have some practice with his."

"That sounds lovely. Mother, I think you should do it." Mona said, sitting on top of Elsa's lap.

"Well..." Elsa pondered for a bit before nodding."Alright. I'll do it."

"Cool! Mind if I get someone to take the picture with me?" Hamaguchi gave a toothy grin.

"Your lovely girlfriend?" Maria teased, pushing Kirika forward gently.

"Yes. And also my best friend." He shifted his attention to Hajime with a wink."Come on, brother. Can't do this without you."

"Oh." Hajime perked up.

"Go on, Hajime." Hibiki pecked him on his cheek, encouraging him.

Hajime made his way over to behind the table where Hamaguchi and Kirika were, standing behind his birthday cake. He wrapped his arm around Kirika's waist and pulled Hajime closer by his shoulders. Both Kirika and Hajime gave two peace signs, while Kirika winked at the camera and Hajime grinned.

"Ready?" Elsa got in position, readying the camera."Say cake!"

"Cake!" The three of them cheered as the camera flashed.

"Alright!" Yosuke approached them with a lighter in his hand. He turned on the two candles with the numbers 1 and 8, stepping back."Bete, get one of him blowing his candles too."

"Roger that." Elsa nodded, preparing the camera.

"Go ahead, Hamaguchi, wish for something." Hajime encouraged him, patting him on the back.

"Well...I wish for Kirika and I to have so many kids we can make a soccer team together!" He cried out, blowing his candles, only to have a flustered Kirika slamming his head on the cake.

"I-idiot!" Kirika blushed, pouting away.

"Who didn't see that one coming?" Chris rolled her eyes, folding her arms under her chest.

"Aw, and I really wanted to try out that cake." Amber lamented."It looked delicious..."

"Don't worry, everyone. Mona and I have prepared a backup cake." Chris announced, much to the relief of all the guests."Ain't that right, Mona?"

"Yup. I helped." Mona smiled shyly, hands behind her back.

"Nice job, you two." Tsubasa praised them."You thought ahead of the rest of us. That's a good initiative."

"It's a relief. Honestly, I've been craving something sweet." Yosuke offered a grin, rubbing his stomach."I haven't met my sugar quota lately."

"Here it is!" Tobias yelled, carrying the cake in his hands and setting it on an empty table.

"It looks even better than the last one!" Hajime beamed, hands on his hips."Good thing Hamaguchi said too much and ruined the other cake."

"H-huh?! You mean you guys were counting on this?!" Hamaguchi yelped, wiping some cake off his face.

"Yes." Everyone said in unison.

"Aw, man!" Hamaguchi sat on the floor."Now everyone thinks I'm a weirdo!"

"Well..." Kirika sat next to him, getting some cake off his face."I know you don't mean anything bad-desu. Sorry, I acted that way. It's just...Babies..."

"Maybe I did go too far..." Hamaguchi rubbed his nape."But...when we're ready...maybe we could, you know? If you want."

"I'll think about it." Kirika trailed off with a smile."I'm not opposed to the idea-desu."

"The last thing we need is mini Kirikas and Hamaguchis running around." Chris smacked them on the backs of their heads.

"Yeah, maybe." He shrugged nonchalantly before grabbing Kirika's hand."Would you care of a dance, my lady?"

"Of course." She giggled as he guided her toward the middle of the room.

"Someone put some music! Romantic music!"

"On it!" Hibiki said, changing the song being played on the laptop set up in the room.

Kirika and Hamaguchi began dancing slowly, holding each other in their arms as they talked to each other. With that, the groups split up and the party continued.

"Thank you for the great birthday party, babe." He kissed her on her cheek as they danced."It's great. You know how to make them good."

"Of course! When it comes to fun, leave it to me-desu!" Kirika winked.

"I love you," Hamaguchi muttered in her ear, causing her to shiver.

"I love you too, dummy." She tightened her grip on him."Hamaguchi...I'm scared..."

"Why?" He frowned slightly. "Scared about what, my love?"

"It's just...before, I thought it wouldn't come to this...But now, you're in danger more than ever. We all are...I don't want this to be your last birthday...I want us to be together forever..." Kirika started to tear up.

"Hey, don't worry about it. It's fine." He kissed her forehead, rubbing her nose with his own."Don't think about that stuff too much. It sours your beautiful face."

"Hamaguchi...Are you sure...you don't want to just stop? I mean, you did more than enough to help us. I just don't want to lose you-"

"Kirika, look...It's not like I don't understand the sentiment. But you gotta understand why I'm even doing this. I'm doing this for you, Hajime, my friends, and my family. If I can fight to make a difference, then you're damn right I'm going to fight. I'll add my little grain of sand and contribute. Besides, I'd look like an asshole if I were to just leave and abandon you like that."

Kirika glanced down at the ground."But..."

"You don't trust me?"

"Huh? No, that's-"

"Maybe I haven't been through as much as crazy shit as the rest of you. But I've had my fair share. I fought a crazy psycho, our clones, two dolls that were constructed by Gods. Then we fought said God but not before fighting several people who wanted us dead. And an ancient angel and a devil. I think it's fair to say I've been through some shit too. This is no different."

"I guess when you put it like that..."

"So don't worry, love. We're in this together." He kissed her on her forehead."We'll protect each other. Is that alright?"

"Okay...I'll protect you with everything I have-desu!" Kirika beamed.

"That's the spirit!" The couple continued dancing at a slow rhythm, embracing each other.

"I'm so happy Kuroiwa-kun found someone who loves him so much." Amber gushed over the couple."To be fair, I was quite concerned whether he'd find someone or not. Given his...qualities."

"He's a little touchy, yes." Maria chuckled."But Kirika doesn't dislike it. They're both tied to the hip and are rarely without the other."

"That much is true. A little flirty, perhaps, but he's one of the most loyal people you could find." Amber said. She noticed Raiden on the corner of the room with Elfnein, who was leaning against his arm as she rubbed it."Is your brother okay?"

"He's sad. Jades' birthday is in 3 days, after all..."

"Oh. I'm so sorry."

"Don't apologize." Maria placed a hand on her shoulder."I know you meant well with that question. And also...I guess he's one of the people who are concerned with what's coming."

"I heard. I know I probably came to visit at a bad time, but...I know you guys can save the world yet again." Amber clenched her fists with passion."I've seen the miracle you guys can bring about back in Okinawa, after all."

"We'll do our best," Maria responded with a nod.

"So...Tsubasa-san...you're going to stop being an idol?" Hajime raised a brow, standing near the punch bowl with Tsubasa and Shirabe."Is that an official decision? Or just a thought?"

"Personal wise? It's official. But I have to talk to my manager to let him know." She replied calmly.

"But are you positive about this?" Shirabe asked."I thought being an idol was your dream."

"My dream was to sing my feelings out on stage. It just happened that I became an idol." Tsubasa took a sip of her drink."But now I know that singing doesn't require a specific stage or environment. It can happen anywhere. All you need is your heart. And I'm tired of keeping my relationship with Yosuke a secret. I want us to be happy. No matter what anyone says."

"I can respect that." Hajime nodded."I know Setsuna will be shocked, but she's your number 1 fan, after all. She'll come around."

"Once we get her back...I'll do one last concert. For her." Tsubasa said, making Hajime smile.

"Thanks, Tsubasa-san."

"How are you liking the party?" Miku approached Bragi, who was serving himself a slice of cake. She stood on her tippy toes, kissing him on the cheek.

"Hey, let me eat some of that!" Beelzebub cried out.

"I'll take some home. Relax." Bragi sighed.

"Aw, are you hungry, Beel?" Miku cooed at the plushy in her arms.

"This guy hasn't fed me since earlier this morning, Mikumi! All he does is put me to work during our training sessions and doesn't reward me!"

"What are you, a baby? Bragi deadpanned.

"That's no good, Bragi." Miku chided him, hand on her hip."You should treat him to some good food once in a while."

"Miku, he's obviously trying to get you on his side." Bragi groaned.

"No buts." Miku stood firm, pulling on his cheek."You should take care of him better, or I'll steal him from you."

"Okay, okay! I give up!" Bragi giggled at her gesture."Fine. I'll take a plate of food home. Hamaguchi-dono made too much food, so I'm sure he'll ask us to take as much as we want."

"Alright! That's my boy!"

"Shut up...You know, for a demon, you're too childish."

"Yeah, well, can't be all doom and gloom." He chuckled."Just like you, right?"

"Yeah..." Bragi trailed off, his mind immediately flashing back to his time with his Mother.

"Let's keep enjoying the party, Bragi." Miku grabbed his hand."Okay?"

"Yeah...Yeah, my bad." Bragi nodded.

"By the way, my parents want to meet you." Miku suddenly drops the bomb, making Bragi's eyes nearly bulge out of their sockets.

"Huh?!" Bragi took a step back."T-they do?!"

"Yup. The Commander told them everything." Miku said, pulling out her pendant."Me being part of the team and...everything with Shem-Ha. I convinced them to let me stay and help since pretty much the fate of the world is resting on our hands. So I have to participate." She played with a strand of her hair."And well...I told them how you fought so hard to save me. And how we're in a relationship. They want to meet you. They said they want to meet your parents, but..."

"I can bring Auntie Elfnein." He immediately said."She's pretty much like a Mom to me anyway. And well...I'd love to meet your family."

"That's great! We'll have to see what day we can since we'll be training nonstop. And I'll them know, okay?"

"Of course. I'll let Auntie Elfnein to come along." Bragi leaned forward, kissing Miku on her lips. She giggled into the kiss, pulling him closer before they rested their foreheads against each other's."I love you."

"I love you too." She whispered, staring into his dichromatic eyes.

"Any kisses for me?" Beelzebub asked.

"Not now!" They both yelled at the demon.

"How mean! You're going to make me cry!" Beelzebub gasped dramatically.

"Yeah, right." Bragi huffed."Devils don't cry."

"You should go join them, Elfnein." Raiden muttered to the blonde leaning against him."Don't let me keep you from enjoying the party."

"I am enjoying it." She whispered, nestling against him.

"By just sitting next to me?"

"Yup. I wouldn't change it for the world." Elfnein said."I love you, Raiden."

Raiden sighed."I love you too, Elfnein. I'm sorry. I just...I've had a lot on my mind. A lot. And sometimes, I get lost in my thoughts."

"What do you think of?"

"Jades...Andreas...Everyone back in FIS. How I could have been a better sibling for all of them." Raiden began."I think about my sisters. How they're the last family I got left. I think about you a lot. And...I think about the future. Elfnein...this could be the last birthday we celebrate together."

"Raiden..." Elfnein pursed her lips."You can't be thinking like that."

"I know. I know that, but...it's in my nature to worry about these things." Raiden looked around, noticing everyone having a great time."I wish I could be like the rest and not worry. Just enjoy the moment. But I can't...I can't help it. This will be the most important fight of our lives, Elfnein. It's not just Japan that's at stake anymore. Or our lives. or innocents' lives. EVERYTHING is at stake. We've been training a lot. And we're starting our serious training tomorrow, but...You'll also be fighting too..."

"I understand how you feel." Elfnein grabbed his hand tenderly."Everyone does. Everyone is worried. I am worried too. But I'm a strong girl. Don't forget, I am Carol by all accounts."

"Sorry. I probably sound like a pessimist."

"No, I don't think so. It just means your heart is so big, you worry about everyone else." Elfnein beamed."Because you feel restless, it means that you're worried about what could happen to others. I think that's an admirable trait to have."

"R-really?" Raiden blushed slightly at her loving expression.

"And also...I understand you're still confused about your other brother." Elfnein muttered, grasping his hand."It's okay to be confused. I was confused about my feelings for Carol before too."

"Yeah, but...It's just...I hate him so much. But Jades gave his life trying to protect him. To make him change. And now...it feels like my whole world just crumbled. I don't know what to think anymore. And...I'm scared, Elfnein. My sisters are all I have left." Raiden closed his eyes, fighting back the tears."I don't want to lose what's left of my family. Atticus-nii...Serena...Mom...Andreas...and now Jades. Including Teru-nii, there's only 5 of us left."

"You have me." Elfnein blushed slightly."You have all of us. If you're scared, then I'll hold your hand. Every step of the way. If you're confused, I'll give you comfort. Never think you're alone in this."

"Elfnein..." Raiden smiled at his girlfriend."It's amazing how composed you are, given you're also in your own predicament."

"I know..." Elfnein sighed.

"I think you're doing great at taking care of Bragi." Raiden said."I'm sure Carol would think the same."

"Am I really doing the best I can? I'm just...I don't think I can give Bragi the same love his mother would."

"Carol never struck me as the kind of person to openly speak her feelings." Raiden shrugged."I think you do better in that department."

"Perhaps. But Carol did say how much she loved Bragi." Elfnein's shoulders slumped."And after meeting his Mom, he lost her...I wish I could do more for him."

"Auntie Elfnein."

Elfnein perked up, noticing Bragi and Miku approaching them."Yes, Bragi-chan?"

"Miku's parents invited me over for dinner..." Bragi rubbed his nape."And well...I want you ask you if you could come with me. As my Mom."

"What...?" Elfnein's eyes widened.

"My parents were hoping to meet Bragi's parents." Miku elaborated."And given the circumstances, you're pretty much Bragi's only family. And he loves you like a Mom, so it seems fitting."

"So...what do you say, Auntie?" Bragi asked."Want to come along and-"

"Yes!" Elfnein tackled him into a hug."I'd be happy to go! Thank you!"

"Thanks, Auntie." Bragi muttered, embracing the short blonde."I love you."

"I love you too!" Elfnein rubbed his cheek with hers."Who is my little baby? Yes, you are~! Yes, you are~!"

"A-Auntie Elfnein!" Bragi exclaimed, his face completely red."Don't treat me like a kid! Not in front of Miku..."

"You are!" Elfnein giggled.

"Don't mind him too much, Mama Elfnein." Beelzebub cackled."He's at that age already."

Raiden observed with a smile, glad that her worries were put to rest.

"You're welcome to come to, Raiden-san. You're Elfnein's boyfriend, after all." Miku wagged her eyebrows."Wouldn't say make you Bragi's stepdad?"

"Not you too, Miku-chan." Raiden groaned in exasperation."Do people love to tease me to death?"

Elsa watched with a smile as Mona and Chris were chatting with each other while eating some cake. She felt odd in this joyful scene. It had been so long since she had been to a birthday party. Actually, she hadn't been in one at all. She sat in one of the chairs twiddling her thumbs as she hummed to herself.

"Here you go! I got you some cake!" Garie twirled over to Elsa, holding a slice of cake."I know how it feels when you're shy during a party and when you can't muster the courage to eat something."

"Oh...I..." Elsa couldn't muster the words to reply. Garie giggled, gently opening Elsa's hand to grab the plate, sitting next to her.

"Funny enough, I can eat with this doll body of mine. And I have to say, the cakes of this era are even better than back then." She beamed, eating a slice of her cake."Try it! It's good."

"I...never really ate cake before...Not like this..." Elsa trailed off refusing to make eye contact with Garie."Honestly...I even forgot what it tastes like."

"What?! But that can't be! Then eat as much as you want!" Garie insisted."I'm sure Hamaguchi would be offended if we didn't eat. Your little girl made it. I'm sure she'll be happy to have your opinion."

Elsa nodded, knowing her adoptive daughter would be happy to see her eating. She started to eat the cake, her eyes widening as fresh tears streamed down her face."It's so good-de-arimasu..."

"She worked hard. Her and Chris." Garie elaborated."I know you feel a little...shall we say, hesitant to be in my presence. Am I right?"

"I...I'm sorry..." Elsa's wolf ears folded."I...I am responsible for what happened to your friends...I'm so sorry...I just...I can't look at you without feeling horrible..."

"I see. So I was right." Garie hummed."Well, you should know that I don't hold anything against you."

"Huh? But...why? We killed your friends in cold blood..."

"We've been dead for a long time." Garie said with a wistful smile."We're not from this era. We go back around...500 years ago? I don't remember the date. Anyway, the point is, we've died once already. Twice. Well, 3 times. Except for me. I'm very lucky to be alive today, even if I'm in a doll's body. I'm also very grateful to be alive. My husband did everything in his power so that we could live. Believe me, this isn't that bad."

Garie took a deep breath before continuing."I know what it's like to be manipulated. Just like you guys, we were manipulated by a stronger power. Bragard messed with our memories... and he's the reason we died in the first place."

"Bragard? But if that's the case...Why do you treat Bragi so nicely?"

"Well, it's because he's not his father. He had absolutely everything going for him to be a villain that would destroy the world. And yet, he's become one of its best protectors. The young master defied all expectations." Garie shrugged."He's his own person that's proven to be above everyone's expectations of him. He can be...a little rough around the edges, but he's a nice kid. Do you still resent him?"

"No. Not really." She trailed off."Now that I have had the time to observe and see who he is...I don't think I do. Do you think...he hates me?"

"If I don't hate you, then he doesn't hate you." Garie waved off her concern."Trust me. He's actually just nervous around you since he thinks you dislike him. So you're both in the same boat."

"I suppose so." Elsa managed a small smile."I'd like to talk to him. When I'm ready."

"Just a simple hi is all it takes." Garie winked.

Yosuke sat on a stool, drinking a bottle of water, a smile on his face as he watched over his friends. He kept his distance, not wanting to spoil the fun for the others. He couldn't help but worry in the back of his head. A lot had happened in the last month and he was still coming to terms with it. He had added more people to his list that he had to visit in the cemetery. And now, the clock was ticking.

'This could be the last birthday party we celebrate.' Yosuke bit his lower lip.'Despite all the pain we've endured recently, they deserve to have this. To have fun and enjoy our life. Who knows if we'll get to do it again after what's coming...'

He shook his head.'No...I can't think like that. We've been through several trials. We won't let this be the one that bests us. We'll celebrate another birthday.'

The young detective peered down, noticing Andreas barking and wagging his tail, trying to get a sleeping Strike's attention.

"Give it a rest, Andreas." Yosuke shook his head, catching the puppy's attention."He's not as energetic as you."

"Yosuke-san!"

The purple-haired young man was brought back to reality by the sight of two girls in front of him."Tachibana...Itaba...how can I help you two?"

"You're sitting all by yourself, so we wanted to come say hi." Yumi smiled."You're always keepin' to yourself, even outside of school."

"That's not true." He frowned."I don't keep to myself."

"Actually, Yosuke-san?" Hibiki tilted her head with a sheepish smile."You kind of do."

"Okay, maybe just a little." He caved, chuckling."You girls enjoying yourselves?"

"Oh, the food is absolutely delicious!" Yumi beamed."My compliments to the chef!"

"That would be the birthday boy himself." Yosuke rolled his eyes."And you, Tachibana?"

"I'm having so much fun!" Hibiki smiled as well."I'm glad everyone's enjoying themselves. I know there's been a lot of tension as of late...so hopefully this can make everyone feel better."

"Trust me. It does." Yosuke glanced over to the others."Everyone seems to be having tons of fun. And that's important here. To be normal every now and then. We can't always just worry."

"But you worry. You're worrying right now." Hibiki placed a hand on his shoulder."I know you."

"Maybe a little too well." He chuckled."You've come a long way. Everyone has. But for tonight, let's not worry about that."

"If that's the case, how about a drink?" Hamaguchi walked over, holding a bottle of champagne.

"Where did you get that?" Yumi's eyes widened.

"I brought it with me as a present." Amber explained."Kuroiwa-kun wanted me to give him one for his birthday since he's now 18 and can legally drink."

"That wasn't a problem before, was it, Kuroiwa?" Yosuke narrowed his eyes at the blue-haired teen.

"N-now, now, Yosuke-san. That's all in the past, right?" Hamaguchi laughed nervously, sweating bullets."Go on, unwind a little. I want you to be the first one to drink from that bottle-"

Without hesitation, Yosuke popped the bottle open and began drinking from it.

"N-no way!" Hibiki gasped in shock.

"Just like that?" Yumi's face was drained of all color.

"What?" Yosuke arched a brow, a cocky grin plastered on his lips."I do enjoy the occasional drink, you know. Just not as much as Jades."

"Damn! You're something else, Yosuke-san!" Hamaguchi cackled, taking the bottle from him."You say the occasional drink, but this is almost half empty now, you asshole!"

"Yeah, well, you offered." Yosuke shrugged.

"I hope Kazanari-san is okay with you drinking that much," Amber said.

"It's fine. This won't get me drunk if that's what you're worried about."

"That's one of the cons of having a girlfriend sometimes." Hamaguchi sighed, closing the bottle again."Sometimes you gotta wonder if they'd be okay with whatever you're doing or something you want to do."

"I never had that problem with Hajime, to be honest." Hibiki rubbed her chin."Nor has he with me."

"It's just part of a relationship." Yumi folded her arms."You gotta be ready for that kind of commitment."

"Oh? Does that mean..." Hamaguchi scooted closer to the pig-tailed girl."...you have a boyfriend, Yumi-chan?"

"Of course not!" She blushed.

"Then you have someone in mind?"

Yumi glanced over at Hajime, who was currently helping Tsubasa carry some things to the living room, blushing even more. She shook her head."That's none of your business-"

"Okay! I've decided!" Hamaguchi pulled out a pair of sunglasses and a hat from out of nowhere."Don't worry. Love Detective Hamaguchi Kuroiwa is on the case...~!"

"Love...detective...?" Everyone else repeated in a skeptical tone.

"Where did you get those glasses and hat?" Yosuke pondered aloud, but Hamaguchi continued.

"Endou-chan, you're here for another week, right?"

"Yes." She nodded.

"Alright! So when we get a chance, I'll take you two lovely ladies out for some lunch and see if we can help our friend Yumi-chan in her little predicament." Hamaguchi proclaimed."Don't worry. I'm a pretty good matchmaker. I can hook you up."

"T-that's..." Yumi groaned, noticing Hamaguchi was in his little world and probably not listening to her.

"I'm sorry about him." Amber chuckled."Once he gets going, there is no stopping him."

"So he's a great cook, a good psychiatrist, and a good matchmaker?" Hibiki couldn't help but laugh."He's a jack of all trades!"

"But a master of none," Yosuke added, much to the boy's dismay.

"Y-Yosuke-san! Have some faith in me!"

Yosuke could only laugh at Hamaguchi's poor attempts at trying to convince Yumi to go out with him and Amber. He worried that Kirika would be jealous, but he knew better than anyone that Hamaguchi only meant to ask her out as friends. It was for her own good too. The poor girl had lost her best friends at the hands of a monster. Distractions like these can help tremendously.

'I've learned my lesson already.' Yosuke leaned back on his chair, folding his arms. For the rest of the party, he continued to observe and watch over everyone as they continued to have fun. For once in a long time, they were acting their age again.

"Everyone, if I may get your attention." Yosuke clapped, standing up from his seat and gathering the attention of all."Now, before we continue, I'd like to say a few words. First and foremost, happy birthday to our good friend, Hamaguchi Kuroiwa!"

Everyone clapped in unison, prompting Hamaguchi to blush in embarrassment."Heheheh. Thanks, you guys! This is the best birthday ever!"

Kirika beamed, practically jumping over to Hamaguchi and hugging him, causing him to nearly lose his balance and fall.

"Now, now. Settle down you two." Yosuke rolled his eyes."I also want to wish Jades a happy birthday. His birthday is soon, after all..."

"As far as I'm concerned, this is his party too." Hamaguchi said."He deserves it."

Maria and Shirabe smiled at the blue-haired boy, overjoyed with his kindness.

Yosuke nodded."I'm sure he's watching from wherever he is. And then...I want to say that I'm happy I got to know all of you."

"Hey, you're making this sound depressing!" Chris huffed.

"Let me finish." Yosuke sighed."My point is, I am aware how tense some of you are..." He eyed Raiden, then over to Bragi."But I want you to know that if we're together, there's nothing we can't do. We've pulled miracle after miracle countless times. We got this. This won't be the last party we host. After all, Tsukuyomi's birthday is in February."

Shirabe blushed slightly upon being the center of attention."O-oh, that's okay, I-"

Tsubasa placed a hand on her shoulder, smiling. Shirabe took a deep breath before smiling back.

"We also need to have another party once Setsuna-chan is back!" Kirika hollered."She's missing out on all the fun! We need to have one big party when we get her back-desu!"

"A great idea." Yosuke nodded, shifting his gaze to Hibiki and Hajime."We'll get her back. No matter what. And we'll celebrate as hard as we can!"

"You got that right." Bragi folded his arms, eyeing Hajime."You can rest easy. We won't stop until we get your sister back home."

"Everyone..." Hajime couldn't help but shed a few tears, Hibiki immediately hugged him to comfort him."Thank you...Yeah...we'll get her back."

"What about Wei-kun?"

Everyone turned to see Shirabe, a hand clutching her chest.

"What about him?" Chris frowned."He's the enemy too. He made that abundantly clear."

"But...what if his mind is being corrupted?" Shirabe then turned to Elsa."Albedo-san said the brand messes with your mind, right? I'm sure that's what happened to Wei-kun..."

"He did say that..." Elsa nodded slowly.

"But he asked for that power in the first place." Tsubasa added."All of them did. Including the other two Liang survivors. Don't forget...Yomi Kugisaki wiped out an entire district full of innocent people and they are responsible for so many students losing their lives.."

"Look..." Yosuke heaved a long sigh."We can talk about Wei once we stop this whole thing. I agree that he's not okay. He lost his entire family, after all. Don't worry, Tsukuyomi. We can work something out."

"Okay..." Shirabe nodded.

"Thanks, Yanagi-san." Hajime spoke up."I...also want to help Wei too. He's my cousin...I don't think I could look at Chao's eyes if I were to let him go the wrong path."

"We'll save those two. That's a promise. Tomorrow, we're going to start the real training. We got a little over a month before Ragnarok is set to pass. We'll be ready for anything the Disasters can throw at us." Yosuke raised a fist in the air."We'll end this fight, once and for all!"

"Yeah!"

"This here is your new phone. Untraceable and only able to call my number in case of an emergency." Allister placed the phone on the table. Currently, it was the middle of the night, and Allister and Terunosuke had met in a secluded park in Tokyo."And your Visa."

"I don't need it." Terunosuke scoffed, crossing his arms.

"Kuwana-san, you can't stay put in Japan." Allister stressed again."It's the first place they'll look for you."

"Yeah, well I'm not going to fucking go to Thailand or Brazil or some shit like that and hide." Terunosuke refused."Not when we're probably going to be found anyway."

"Kuwana-san..."

"Albedo, you know it as well as I, as long as we bear these brands..." Terunosuke looked at the snake tattoo on his hand."...there is no play for us to hide. So why the hell risk everything and come to meet me here? You could have just stayed with your wife and child. You don't owe me anything."

"Because we're friends. Come on, I thought we established that already." Allister chuckled, taking a sip from his water bottle."Besides...it's kind of hard to stay around a bunch of people that want you dead, you know. I'm only alive because Mona and Elsa defended me."

"I can't argue with that." Terunosuke chuckled, lighting up a cigarette before taking a smoke."So, what about you? Are you going to get out of Japan?"

"That's the idea. I'm going back home. I want to see how it is after all these years." Allister leaned back slightly."And...well, just go back to my roots, I guess. I've been all over the world. It's time to head back."

"Getting homesick, huh?" Terunosuke chortled."I guess I can relate to that."

There was a long pause following after that as both males were lost in their thoughts.

"I guess that's why I picked the FIS facility to fight Jades." Terunosuke began, catching Allister's attention."I guess I was expecting to find some sort of...I don't know. Peace? Some sort of revelation. But...I didn't see what I thought I would."

"You went in not thinking you'd win?"

"I didn't. I honestly just thought I'd die trying to kill Jades. That maybe...I could see Serena again. I don't know. Some illogical part of me was just...not here." He pointed at his head."And yet, here I am. Reflecting on the shit life I've led until now. Lost. Now I'm running with my tail tugged between my legs. Because I have no other choice but to accept the consequences of my actions. Albedo-kun...what did you tell those brats? When they confronted you on the moon?"

"I said I don't regret killing Takeru." Allister said after heaving a long sigh."Nothing to regret there. We both had our reasons. And if I didn't get on this path, I would have never met Elsa again. So I looked at Chris in the eyes and told her the truth."

"And yet they spared you."

"Yeah." Allister chuckled."Not sure why. But from what I understand...they want to end the cycle of hatred."

"Huh...I see."

"I also showed them your fight against Jades."

"I figured you would." Terunosuke didn't seem surprised."Maybe that's another reason they let you live."

"I didn't tell them for that. I did it because..." Allister trailed off."I figured you'd want them to know...though you would never say it."

"And? Not like it matters."

"Do you...regret having killed Jades? And not preventing Hazuki-kun from killing Andreas-kun?"

Terunosuke's eyes met Allister's.

"I regret killing Goro, you know?" Allister confessed."He's...aside from Elsa's relatives, he was the first person I ever killed without being contracted to kill. I aimed to kill Yosuke Yanagi after our fight with Odin. I figured that if I took the leader out, the group would fall apart on their own. The kid got in the way and saved Yosuke Yanagi's life. Honestly, it bothered me. How did someone so apparently weak and spineless decide to make the ultimate sacrifice? But then...I realized he did it so his friends would be okay. Because he trusted Yosuke would lead them toward the future. Perhaps that's why your brother did what he did at the end. Maybe he thought you could make things right with your siblings. So why don't you?"

"They nearly killed you, and you think they wouldn't do the same for me? I've killed thousands of people, including their classmates. A guy like me has no business wanting to make up for the shit he caused. Serena...Everything I ever did was for her. My own twisted love...mixed with my desires for revenge and self-pity...And I ended up ruining myself. Those kids...I destroyed everything they loved."

"But do you regret it?"

Terunosuke opened his mouth but closed it immediately."What does it matter now? It'll be all over soon anyway. They can live however they want. You still believe in Ragnarok, right? That's why you ran away from SONG. Because some part of you still believes in that world Kaburagi-kun described to us."

"But that's-"

"I know that the brand affects our minds. I know that it corrupted us. I know that." Terunosuke scowled."But you know it as well as I do, deep in your bones...part of us wants all this shit to have been worth it. All this work...all our sacrifices...and Nakahara-chan's death. For all of that to not have been for nothing. And for us to be able to live a perfect life. That's why we're here. And yet..."

"And yet part of us wants SONG to somehow stop Ragnarok. It's weird...I wonder why that is."

"Human logic is not so easily understood." Terunosuke half-shrug."I thought you'd know better."

"Yeah...I guess you're right." Allister scratched his cheek before adopting a serious expression."I love Elsa and Mona. With all of my heart. I want what's best for them. I know deep down you love your siblings too, right? And your parents are still around."

"What's your point?"

"Let's stop Hazuki-kun. We both have 3 Advent Beasts at our disposal. We know more about his abilities than anyone else and how he fights." Allister stood up."Let's work together. He'll start hunting us down. We'll wait for our chance and-"

"Not a chance."

"And why not?!" Allister punched the table, gritting his teeth.

"Albedo-kun...even if we work together against him...we don't stand a ghost of a chance." Terunosuke's eyes softened, much to Allister's confusion."If we stick together, we're just putting a big fucking target on our backs."

"What...? No, we'd do fine. Come on, don't be like that-"

"It's true that we're familiar with his abilities, but all it takes is one small mistake on our part and one of us gets removed from the battlefield by one of his portals, leaving the other one stranded while the other one is a sitting duck. Making the whole thing completely meaningless."

"So what do you suggest? To just lay down and die?"

"I never said not to fight. Of course, I'll fight. The point is...if this little bastard wants to get our powers by force, then he better fucking work for it." Terunosuke adopted a sardonic grin."I'll stick around in Japan. You go and get lost in Russia, France, or wherever the fuck you want."

"But if that's the case, shouldn't you also leave Japan?"

"No..." Terunosuke shook his head."I'll fight as hard as I can. But...realistically speaking, I can't beat him. So all I can hope for is damage him in some way so when he goes after you, you'll have an easier time than me."

"Kuwana-san..."

"I've always been the weakest link out of the 3 of us." Terunosuke sighed in dejection."I have the toughest defense, but in terms of raw power, I'm far behind. The one who has a better shot at beating him...is you. So when I go down, I expect you to give him hell, you understand?"

"Got it..." A small smile graced the former assassin's features."Understood. I'll gladly accept this mission you're entrusting to me."

"Good. I was going to kick your ass if you said no." He snickered."Still, are you sure you shouldn't be with your wife and kid? Unlike me, you still have a place to call home with them."

"Maybe so. But I am also trying to atone for what I've done...and besides, staying away from them is the safest choice." Allister responded.

"Anyway...I should get going. It's getting late." Terunosuke stood up, putting off the cigarette he was smoking."And I gotta find a place to stay tonight again."

"Here, take this." Allister pulled out a set of keys, an identification card, and a stack of cash."I owned an apartment in Fukuchiyama, Kyoto. Don't worry. It's not under my name. It's just an apartment that I kept around. The House of Grey had different apartments for its assassins in case they needed them around the world. And some money as well. And I got you the identification you asked me for. With the name you requested."

"Thanks...You were pretty thorough with this." Terunosuike smiled, grabbing the items and pocketing them in his coat.

"Of course. Being thorough is what I was proud of back when I was a hitman." Allister grinned. The dark-haired young man looked up at the older man, stretching out his arm."It's been a blast working with you."

"Likewise." Terunosuke shook his hand. To his own surprise, he engulfed Allister in a hug.

"Kuwana-san...?" Allister mumbled, taken aback.

"Take care of yourself, kid." Terunosuke muttered, patting Allister on the back."Stay alive."

"You too." Allister smiled. They both pulled back before turning in opposite directions. But Allister heard Terunosuke's footsteps stop. Curious, he turned around, noticing the older man standing still."Everything alright?"

"Allister..."

Allister's eyes widened. This was the first time Terunosuke had referred to him by his first name."Yes?"

"Do you think...there's an afterlife for us? Do you think we'll be at peace once all of this is over? In case Kaburagi-kun's plans are foiled. Do you think...we'll see our loved ones on the other side?"

Allister's lips thinned, pondering on his question before answering."Even if there is, I doubt people like us deserve that kind of treatment, wouldn't you agree?"

The Gai Deck wielder laughed at that."Yeah...I guess you're. Maybe it's for the better. I doubt I could ever look at Serena or Jades in the eyes again. But maybe in another world...things played out differently."

"Probably. Who knows? I doubt even Odin himself knows." The former assassin shrugged as they went their separate ways. Unbeknownst to both of them...this was the last time they ever saw each other.

The first chapter of the last season done. So this is...the last first chapter...Damn, it feels like forever again since the story started, but it's only been 2 years. Or almost 2 years. Anyway, if you liked the chapter, feel free to leave a review and show your support! It's very much appreciated! Also, next chapter we'll have the opening and ending ready to go. They were meant to be introduced in this chapter, but I got lazy and forgot to do the ending. Sorry!