The Knightfall

by The Agent of Chaos

Destiny is like a wonderful wide tapestry in which every thread is guided by an unspeakably tender hand, placed beside another thread and held and carried by a hundred others. Sorry about my lacks, I'm an inexperienced beginner n I'm not a native speaker.

97. End Game, A Flame

Chapter 97

"It's been an incredible ride. Mission accomplished. With that, I have to bid farewell. I'm the happiest person in the world right now...it's better than I ever thought it would be"

Jerome Bettis

To those who might notice, the title of this chapter is taken from a very very very underrated manga, Deadman Wonderland. I put it in there cause I believe it fits the whole content of this chapter. The poem in the page 83 is Loneliness by Rainer Maria Rilke. Frea's musings on page 84 is fully taken from the poem Loneliness by Praveen. The second half of the second last page is mostly taken from the poem Evening Solace by Charlotte Bronte with some usual changes here and there.

The Knightfall is finally on its 100th chapter! Wow, I feel like an old man now…it's as if it was just yesterday I felt like writing The Knightfall with a below decent ability to actually write. I would like to believe I have improved since that day (LOL).

Either way, thank you for reading this far. There are ups and downs during the progress of this story, people come and go in my life and maybe yours as well, but it's all part of life I guess. And I don't think words can show how grateful I am to all of you, for your support. But nonetheless, let me say this: thank you. All of you.

And without further ado, enjoy!

0000

The sun was just beginning to set on the hemisphere when Elraven placed his feet on the ground as Frea & Randgris followed behind him. Standing still, Elraven studied the architecture of the Odin's Temple. Vast, majestic, and astounding. It is living up to every inch of hype Elraven made inside his mind when he heard of the destination of the current quest. On the other hand, Randgris was on a different stature. Her eyes were ready to spot any upcoming attack from literally any possible opposition coming up. As usual, a smile isn't featured in her facial structure. Her job isn't to make friends after all; her job is to ensure all three of them return to Amatsu in one piece. And Frea, she looked calm. With her eyesight regained, she no longer have to use her ability to presence the existence of a soul to pinpoint someone's exact location. But quietly, she's been activating that unique ability of hers to radar the entire island for precaution much like what Randgris was doing.

"So, what do we do now?" Elraven took the concentration of his two companions for himself, "This is the temple, right? Is there any particular thing we should exact to open the gate to Asgard?"

"No, there isn't" Randgris replied rather quickly, "As I told you before, Asgard is pretty unstable thanks to the impact of Ragnarok. The gate to Asgard will open by itself during a particular time taking the form a huge warp portal. Now that you mention it, what time is this?"

"It's…" Elraven reached for his talkie and looked at the digital watch installed in it, "It's 5:12 AM"

"Then the gate will open in 4 minutes. It will only last for roughly 30 seconds or so before closing in. And it won't appear again for the next 12 hours"

"So, we only have 30 seconds to enter and in case we fail we have to wait half a day?"

"Take it or leave it, Elraven" An uneasy answer from the Valkyrie, but there's nothing they could do to alter that fact, "But truth be told, one thing is bogging my mind"

"What is it?" Frea entered the chat group.

"The lack of Skeggiold" To those who need a friendly reminder, Odin's temple is supposed to be invested by these cute yet aggressive angelic creatures, "This island should have been invested by Skeggiolds. Lord Odin planted a farm full of them here to protect the island while he isn't around. But I haven't spotted any one of them"

"REGARDING THAT MATTER, MAY I OFFER A THOUGHT OR TWO?"

That familiar voice which captures the attention of everyone present whenever it is voiced quickly marked the vision and the hearing of the three representative of the Sagramore contingent. Every word in its strings is usually meant to be demented, exposing the true nature of its owner. Complete disregard of the inferior race is often noted again and again, reassuring everyone who had the unfortunate luck to listen to it that the owner of the voice possesses bottomless pride of being a God. The deep and depraved voice, usually heard by those who were going to lose their lives very soon.

"Ifrit?" The three shouted in unison. They couldn't believe the rumored target was actually around.

"AT YOUR SERVICE" The Fire God of Rune Midgard mirthfully uttered his response. His stare, cold and deep as ever. None of the three escaped his vision. He locked his gaze at them he could literally tell where they would move, to where, and what moves would they perform, "GOING BACK TO OUR PREVIOUS SUBJECT, I CONCLUDE THERE COULD BE TWO PROBABILITIES AS TO WHY THE SKEGGIOLDS ARE NOT AROUND TO BE SEEN. FIRST, MAYBE THEY HAPPENED TO MEET ME WHEN I FIRST ARRIVED IN THIS ISLAND AND TOOK THE RETARDED INITIATIVE TO ACTUALLY ATTACK ME. SECOND, AFTER SEEING A PARTICULAR GOD MELTED ALMOST THE ENTIRE FLEET OF SKEGGIOLDS, THOSE SHODY ANGELS OR WHAT WAS LEFT OF THEM, LEARNED FOR THE BETTER AND RAN FOR THEIR LITTLE LIVES, KNOWING BETTER THAN TO CHALLENGE ME TO A COMBAT. EVER AGAIN"

After listening to Ifrit revealing a somewhat inconvenient truth, Frea didn't hold back from letting the world know of her surprise, "You were here all along? But I didn't feel any soul presence!"

"THEN AGAIN, ERASING MY OWN SOUL PRESENCE WAS NOT A DIFFICULT THING TO DO"

"This is as I expected" A certain dark haired gunslinger withdrew his newly polished HAVOX, speaking his confident with smile, "There's three of us. No matter how good you are, you're at a disadvantage. Our combined powers should be enough to erase you!"

"PERHAPS, BUT WHOEVER SAID I WAS ALONE?" A foreshadowing of things to come. And indeed Ifrit wasn't alone. Another eye-catching figure made his way from behind the Fire God. He wears a long black robe with motif star-like motifs on it and a matching dark turban wrapping around his head. He had on a purple scarf around his neck, and also sports striped socks under a pair of normal dark shoes. His particularly dusky skin and piercing eyes quickly extracted the certain part of the three's memory.

"Satan…Morroc?" Elraven recognized him one second after the man appeared, "I remember you! During the war at Glast Heim, you appeared before all of us once! You're human name is Albert Gahn, right?"

Albert Gahn gave a hint of slight grin; his eyes slowly pointing to the sky before returning to his three oppositions, "The Angel of Darkness himself remembers me, I feel honored to know that"

But don't call him Elraven if he can't come up with something smart to say, "Honored? I feel like that's out of the question, cause you don't ooze honor, Gahn. You ooze horror"

"It is only a letter apart" Apparently Gahn also possesses something smart to say, "Regardless, now that all three of you are actually present at this point, I no longer have boundless regret of coming here in the first place inside me. Everything is going accordingly"

"Accordingly? What are you talking about?"

"You will see for yourself real soon, Sinclair. At the time being, we have what? Maybe 2 or 3 minutes until the ship sail? Would it not be a waste to throwaway such precious seconds to stand here chatting?"

"Oh, what do you have in mind, Gahn?" Strengthening the grip in his HAVOX, Elraven welcomed the challenge, "You two wanna pick up a fight?"

"EXACTLY MY MIND" Using his thunderous speed, Ifrit shocked Elraven by appearing mid-air right behind him already forming a pair of legs he usually makes a good use of whenever he encounters challenges. Before Elraven could even turn his head over his shoulder, the Fire God connected a violent enzuigiri to the back of Elraven's head and launched the gunslinger away from the temple, quickly moving to follow his prey. "Elraven!" Randgris attempted to run at both Ifrit's & Elraven's direction but they had Gahn intruding their attempt. Without changing to his actual form, the human version of Satan Morroc outpaced the valkyrie and hammered at Randgris's direction with a semi-circular punch thrown with his rear hand. The valkyrie drifted to the sky apace before the attack hit her, witnessing firsthand how the result would have been had hit. Gahn literally buried his hand to the ground with a single punch and displaced the entire field to the air, shaking the giant temple. Randgris's eyes broadened in surprise while Gahn's set his sight at the floating Valkyrie, "No need to be shocked, Valkyrie. My power stays the same whether I am using this form…or the other". When rocks stormed all over the terrain behind her bacl, Frea could only whisper her gratefulness that her speed enabled her to completely evade Gahn's attack; otherwise the result wouldn't have been pretty. Frea quickly caught up to Ifrit's position. It turns out that Elraven only stopped after he hit a giant boulder which put an end to his floating journey. Ifrit noticed the incoming threat and discharged six fire balls to the soul linker's direction. Frea summoned two Esmas, placed them in front of herself, and used them to shield her being from the fire balls. But Ifrit's only intention to shoot the fire balls was to create an opening for himself to move closer to Frea. Only two inches apart, the bigger deity compacted both his fists and drew them in to Frea's head, secretly imbuing both his hands with the Earthquake spell. Ifrit successfully landed a hit on Frea and in the process, shattered the nearby terrain; completely destroying the strand as its impact formed a crater. A victorious grin would have been formed by The Embodiment of Hell had he possessed actual facial features. But after the dusts had settled, Ifrit established his vision at Frea, who stood promptly, unscathed. "WHAT?" He slowly said in dismay. Even the vilest of the Gods couldn't hold back from asking himself how was surviving the Earthquake up close even possible. Elraven, who just recovered his stance, didn't give him time to think; he wasn't kind enough to do that. The gunslinger rayed Ifrit from above with countless bullets, courtesy of HAVOX. Haven't recovered from the earlier shock, Ifrit received most of the bullets coming from above. While it's true none of them really hurt him, he still felt annoyed by the distraction and formed a crimson sphere in his right hand. Raising the sphere above his head, Ifrit detonated his Purgatorio, intending to attack both Frea & Elraven at the same time. Yet Frea upset Ifrit again for the second time today by reaching out to the explosion…and completely repelled it back merely by a touch, wooing both Elraven & Ifrit alike and transferring the sphere to the sky until it is no longer seeable. "IMPOSSIBLE!" Now Ifrit finally lost his calm, "YOU ESCAPED EARTHQUAKE AFTER BEING DIRECTLY HIT AND NOW YOU DISPOSED OF PURGATORIO BY A SIMPLE TOUCH? HOW?"

"Oh, what is this? Ifrit The Great lost his usual coolness?" Frea teasingly responded, having gained the upper hand, "How unsightly"

"DO NOT THROW YOUR JOKES AT ME, FREYJA! ANSWER ME DIRECTLY!"

"Come on, you cannot even take a little joke now? Alright, let's get serious, then" The soul linker further verbalized her advantage, "Your story ends today, Ifrit! I shall get rid of you!"

"INTERESTING! I ACCEPT YOUR CHALLENGE!"

But the two were stopped from doing any more thing by a warning from Randgris, "Freyja! Elraven! It's opening! The gate's opening! We have to go now!"

"It's time already?" Thirty seconds are fairly a very short amount of time, so there's no time to lose here, "Elraven, this prick has to wait for now! We must hurry!"

"As much as I dislike leaving the chance to not pull some chances for once, I'll abide for the greater good now" Elraven wrapped Frea around him with his arms and flew with full speed, leaving Ifrit.

"YOU ARE NOT GOING ANYWHERE!" Obviously displeased of the feeling of being underestimated and overlooked, the Fire God of Rune Midgard blasted twelve fire balls to his two oppositions, attempting to stop their step halfway before they reach the gate as he himself chased after them from their behind. Frea showed another ounce of her true ability by summoning a similar number of ice Esmas, and threw all of them to crash to the fire balls mid-air, leaving nothing but ice dusts for Ifrit to eat for, which instantly gave Ifrit another feeling of being mocked today. Gahn, whose mid was occupied to stop Frea & Elraven as well, enchanted an Abyss Break sphere in his right hand and delivered the sphere to the soul linker & gunslinger rushing in the air. Not going to let him have his way, Randgris transformed her right hand to a giant Valkyrie spear embedded with dark grey fire; using both her wings to supply herself with a lightening fast agility, she pierced through the dark sphere and completely annihilated it, much to the upset of Gahn whose eyes just literally bulged from a sudden attack. Without saying any more words, the valkyrie joined the flight of Frea & Elraven to quickly enter the Odin's temple, where a giant warp hole could be seen covering the whole floor in the main hall. Elraven, Frea, and Randgris stopped atop the center of the warp portal and landed right in it, quickly transferring themselves to Asgard. The last thing the three witnessed before they completely travel to the once the citadel of gods was the sight of Ifrit & Gahn desperately trying to run into the portal before it closed itself for another twelve hours.

Some moments later, in Asgard…

Elraven slowly opened his eyes to learn he was lying on some concrete floor. Slowly rising to his two feet, Frea & Randgris were seen wandering around the hall. They are inside a temple of some sort. To be more exact, it is a grand hall that appears to rise peacefully when viewed from afar. It is shining and golden, with a great golden tree at its front known as Glasir. The roof beams are made of the shafts of spears, while the roof is thatched with golden shields. "Where are we? Are we in Asgard already?" Elraven questioned the two, thinking any of them answering would be just fine.

"We're in Valhalla, Elraven. Formerly the residence of Lord Odin himself" As expected, Randgris didn't let any chance to mention a particular name go.

"Ah, the home of the brave. I've heard once only the dead could enter this place to enjoy luxurious life with Odin" Elraven remembered a thing or two he remembered about Valhalla, namely the fact only brave warriors who have died in battle could enter, "But we're not dead yet. Presumably, we could enter this point because we were guided by a Valkyrie, which was you, Randgris?"

"You can think of it that way"

"I see, that means Asgard is out there? I can take a look?"

"Make yourself at home"

The gunslinger rushed to the edge of the temple, standing not too far from Frea. There, he got a good look on what once was the utopian society of Gods. Buildings are torn, streets are empty. No sound can be heard, not even the sounds of a small blowing wind through the blocks. The idle ground is beyond mute, the walls are desolated. There is no moon to light the cold dark sky. No sun to dawn the place with warmth. No stars to radiate the site. And no cloud to embrace the frigorific land anymore. The place devours void, it eats away loneliness. It's empty. It's lifeless. "It's Asgard" Frea caught Elraven's attention, the latter was visibly shutting his mouth the whole time when he viewed the once utopian society, "Welcome to the citadel of Gods, Elraven"

Around the same time, in a certain field…

This would be unpleasant news to El's party, because Ifrit & Albert Gahn safely made it to Asgard as well, but in a completely different area. If Valhalla were to be heaven, let's say the both of them ended up in hell. To describe the place is rather simple, really. It's a constant place of fire, boulders, and smoke wherever your eyes ended up in. And it's easy to guess who could live in this kind of place.

"…THIS PLACE…" Ifrit engaged his fiery vision not long after arriving in another version of Thor's Volcano Dungeon.

"For someone who does not possess a heart, you're quite sentimental" Gahn reminded his flaming companion he isn't really alone, "Mind telling me where we are? I have never visited Asgard before, and I hope this isn't the heaven you Gods always boasted"

"THIS PLACE IS CALLED MUSPELLSHEIMR, AN OUTER DARKNESS. A PLACE OF ENDLESS SUFFERING, WHERE THE LIGHT OF LIFE AND LOVE WOULD NEVER BE ABLE TO SHINE UNDER ITS TRANSCENDENTAL AGONY. NON IMMORTALS COMMONLY REFER TO THIS PLACE AS HELL" Hm, that clears things up, "THIS PLACE USED TO BE MY RESIDENCE BEFORE RAGNAROK HAPPENED"

"Don't look much different from your current fixed abode. The similarities appeared here and there" Gahn dealt a reasonably dry reply, "This is just one part of Asgard, right?"

"CORRECT"

"And out of all the beautiful places I could wreck during this journey, we were sent here by the warp portal"

"GLAD TO KNOW YOU ARE UPSET, BECAUSE I WAS THE ONE WHO CAUSED US TO LAND IN HERE" I'm also glad to know Ifrit doesn't seem to lose his taste of humor.

"How's so?"

"BECAUSE YOU ENTERED THE PORTAL AT THE EXACT SAME TIME I DID. IT OCCUR TO ME THE PORTAL WORKS BY SENDING A GOD OR A GODDESS TO A PLACE WITH MOST HISTORY WITH THEM"

"That makes sense. Do you have any idea where Freyja & the Valkyrie go?"

"PROBABLY VALHALLA, THEY USED TO SPEND A LOT OF TIME WITH ODIN & LOKI THERE"

"Is it far from here?"

"UNFORTUNATELY YES, BUT IF WE'RE HEADING TO THE SAME DIRECTION AS THEY DO, YGGDRASIL, THEN WE ARE ON THE RIGHT PATH" Ifrit pointed at a silhouette of something that towers from the ground from far far away, piercing even the sky, "THAT IS YGGDRASIL"

"Colossal" The higher demon fabricated a pleasant grin right upon learning the otherworldly stature of the fabled tree, "Finally something living up to my expectation around here. Who would have thought landing in hell bring us to heaven even faster?"

"BY FEET, WE WILL REACH THE TREE IN AN HOUR" This doesn't look good on El's party's behalf, "IF I PREDICT IT RIGHT, FREYJA'S PARTY WILL NOT ARRIVE IN THERE UNTIL AT LEAST THIRTY HOURS FROM NOW"

"That gives us a lot of time to prepare to execute both our plans" Indeed, this does not look good, "Things just got better and better for us"

"BE THAT AS IT MAY, I STILL HAVE SOME FAVORS TO PAY BACK TO FREYJA. I AM NOT GOING TO LET HER GO AFTER STAINING MY HONOR" Remembering the latest encounter with the soul linker only added more fuel to the fire (no pun intended), but Ifrit didn't shy away from letting his companion know his true opinion of the magic Frea showed to him, "I DO NOT RECALL SEEING FREYJA HAVING THE ABILITY TO PERFECTLY DODGE PHYSICAL ATTACK AND REPEL MAGIC. EXCEPT IF SHE HAS AWAKENED HER CRESCENDO STATE"

"Possible, which further proves Beelzephir's prediction that she would be the most difficult to handle to be true" Collected and calculating with his thoughts, one of the many factors that made Albert Gahn a very dangerous foe, "To add to it, we are outnumbered 2 to 3"

"NUMBERS ARE NOT GOING TO HINDER US TO ACHIEVE WHAT WE SET TO DO IN THE FIRST PLACE. YOU OF ALL PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW THAT" The Fire God started to walk again, followed by the satan behind him, "IN TERMS OF POWER, WE ARE FAR ABOVE RANDGRIS AND THAT WORM. FREYJA IS THE ONLY CHALLENGE. I SHALL DEFEAT HER SHOULD THE OPPORTUNITY ARRIVE"

"Which leaves me the valkyrie and The Angel of Darkness?" His lips formed a grin; Albert Gahn didn't even try to conceal his pleasure of having his opponents decided, "Just the way I prefer it to be"

As Ifrit & Satan Morroc closed their distance with the mythical, a dark foreboding wraps around the Citadel of Gods one more time. And this time, maybe for the last…

0000

Eighteen hours after the initial landing, far from Valhalla…

Yggdrasil is attested in the Poetic Edda, compiled in the 13th century from earlier traditional sources; and the Prose Edda, written in the 13th century by Snorri Sturluson. In both sources, Yggdrasil is an immense ash tree that is central and considered very holy. The Æsir go to Yggdrasil daily to hold their courts. The branches of Yggdrasil extend far into the heavens, and the tree is supported by three roots that extend far away into other locations; one to the well Urðarbrunnr in the heavens, one to the spring Hvergelmir, and another to the well Mímisbrunnr. Thanks to their location of landing, El's party was placed quite far away from the tree. Frea initiated the journey an hour after their landing, packing everything they feel they might need to survive through the dystopia. Their wings and their ability to fly saved them lots of time, especially considering there's not much ground to land their feet on thanks to a certain legendary war that obliterated almost all the Gods and their homeland. After full eighteen hours of transporting in air, the three eventually decided to call it a night and found a place to rest.

Thankfully the group managed to find a rather comfortable place to rest. It's a serene meadowland near a huge old tree. Just a normal tree you can find in your house of course, not Yggdrasil kind of tree. But it's more than enough for the party to rest their body and save up some energy for tomorrow. And being the only member of the party who actually has some cooking skills, El provided the food for the other two. This time, it's a Skeggiold steak.

"Tasty?" As always, being proud of his otherworldly bizarre yet first rate chef-like ability, the vice-captain of The Ropera Squad couldn't wait to hear an answer, "It's good, right?"

"Um…yeah, it is" Randgris awkwardly answered, maybe because she felt an angel is not really something you should feed on, "But in all honesty, I feel bad for consuming angels"

"Dead angels" Elraven corrected her, "I happened to pick their corpses before Ifrit showed up. I have never cooked angels before, so I was kinda worried the taste would be weird although I knew Skeggiold was edible"

"You know it was edible? How?"

"It had flesh, right? Everything with flesh is edible, Randgris"

"Alright, that's frightening" Frea cut the conversation short, "Let's leave that subject at that. I'm glad you cooked a delicious dinner for all of us, but the thought of it being angels was disturbing enough"

"Fine, although I can't understand why that would disturb you. After all, aren't we omnivores?" Elraven still put that proud smile of his when he collected the plates, not noticing the two Goddesses were looking at each other, bewildered. "Oh, right. I almost forgot" Elraven got the attention of the two women again, "Frea, tell me about the fight earlier this morning"

"Yeah?"

"You dodged a point blank Earthquake & repelled a Purgatorio from Ifrit, mind telling me how you achieved that?" It is a general consensus that the ability of The Fire God of Rune Midgard is a fabled story to both the living and the dead, so seeing someone easily avoiding and countering his moves without even sweating would surely attract questions, "Is that because of your new outfit?"

"That's half the reason" Frea fairly admitted, "The other half is my true Soul Linker ability. I guess I should tell you this from the start. I became a Soul Linker after The Fall of Rachel. While it's true the ability to sense souls covered my lack of vision. But at the same time, it burdened me fleetingly because I used up more than half my magic power to sense souls, which disabled me to completely utilize the other skills of a Soul Linker. But sometimes before we went to The Endless Tower, I completely regained my eyesight"

"You what?" Elraven's eyes nearly popped out from their sockets, "You mean, you can see now?"

"Is that true, Freyja? You're no longer blind?" Even Randgris was surprised.

"Yeah, that's true" Frea giggled to both her companions' reaction, "Randgris, you look fierce as always. Elraven, you're better looking than I thought, I was kinda thankful my ex-boyfriend didn't look like Masuo. No offense"

"Wait a minute! If you could see, why didn't tell any of us?" On the face of it, having his looks praised isn't a really big deal to Elraven, as always.

"It's more fun that way"

"Oh, come on! That can't be real!"

"No, actually, it's more advantageous for me that way because people would think I'm vulnerable, which would cause them to lower their guard against me" That is somewhat a rational argument, which can't really be disputed.

"Oh, I see…"

"Continuing from our previous subject" The soul linker resumed the story of her secret, "After regaining my eyesight, I finally had no use of sensing souls all the time anymore. I manifested my full power to use my soul linker abilities to full extent, completely mastering every soul linker skill there is. And two of them are Kaupe & Kaite. Kaupe allows me to absolutely evade any physical attack. Kaite enables me to repel any kind of magic attack. That was the moves I used to topple Ifrit's ego this morning"

"What? Amazing…" The strings of compliments from Elraven haven't shown any sign of stopping yet, "You can avoid getting hit from any form of physical damage and redirect every magic move there is? Wow…you're….unbeatable. Those two power alone puts you above everyone else!"

"There are limitations, Elraven" Here comes the not so good news, "I can only perform both skills as long as my magic power is sufficient enough to do so and only when the moves directed to me are within my reach"

"What do you mean within your reach?"

"To make it simple, I can only perform Kaupe & Kaite if I am able to learn the existence of the attack, by seeing it, feeling it, or following it. That means, if there's an attack I can't locate, magic or not, I can still get hit"

"Wait, does that mean if you face someone with superior speed to you, the chance of you getting hit because your inability to follow the speed of his attacks is present as well?"

"Precisely" But it isn't Frea if she doesn't give out hopes to her companions, "But there is no need to worry, that's why I had on my old combat garments before we came here. This outfit not only gives me the power to summon Frost Nova at will, but also brings the best out of my physical strength, speed, and endurance. Ergo, should we encounter Ifrit & Satan Morror again tomorrow, I ask both your willingness to let me take on Ifrit. Alone"

"Alone? That's too dangerous!" Not even one second after the initial request, Elraven has beaten Randgris in terms of voicing a certain disagreement, "At least let me or Randgris lend you an assist!"

"Hear me out first" Frea doesn't seem like she's going to have it the other way, "We still have Satan Morroc to mind, right? If either one of you go one on one against him, the chance of you winning is, to be fair, slim to none. He's the strongest of the godlikes. His power is comparable to even the Gods, so if you want to actually stand any chance of stopping him, it would take your combined effort. At our current state, I'm the only one who can fight Ifrit on equal ground. Besides, our objective is to claim the Valkyrie Armors, right? Which means we should make our enemies' focus shifted to something else entirely. If I go against Ifrit, and the two of you go against Satan Morroc, maybe the opportunity for either one of you to sneak in to Yggdrasil and obtain the Valkyrie Armors would present itself. I know this isn't a favorable plan, but we must do what we can with what we have. And I'm unfeigned amongst the three of us, I am the only one capable enough to fight Ifrit one on one. Remember, our priority is to acquire the armors. If I have to do this in order to achieve that goal, then so be it"

Elraven & Randgris were stunned by Frea's statement. As much as they wish to repudiate the soul linker, deep inside they knew they couldn't. What she said was truth. All of it. "Fine…I guess what you said was correct. But mind this, Frea" Elraven resolved, "If you ever feel your life is in danger, and I mean any actual danger, don't hesitate to call any of us for help. While it's true the Valkyrie armors are on the top of our priority, remember that our lives are important as well. This isn't the place we're going to die, got me?"

"Alright" Frea put an understanding smile on her lips. And that's that, no one felt the necessity to say anything to anyone anymore. Quietly, the group separated as they go to get some rest for tomorrow. Tomorrow's gonna be a long day.

Meanwhile, in Fio's room in Amatsu…

As we knew it, Fiorentin hasn't been the kindest towards Elraven thanks to a certain love potion. However, not seeing him for a day actually bothers her (wonder why?). She wasn't there to bid him good luck this morning. And now, she feels somewhat guilty. True, she wanted nothing more than to disembowel him for his extreme maniacal doings, but what he is doing at the moment is for her sake as well so she can't just brush that aside like it means absolutely nothing. She did not really understand why she is worrying about him, though. She knew he is capable of looking out for himself. And although she realized he cannot enter Lucifer state right now, Elraven is someone that wouldn't die so easily even when he's faced against Gods, or so he has proven so far. Maybe she's worried about him doing since he may be up against Ifrit, virtually his arch-enemy. His nemesis. The only foe Elraven hasn't been able to topple until now. Ever since his coming to Rune Midgard from Juno, The Fire God has replaced Beelzephir in the top of Elraven's most wanted list. Meeting him would surely drive him to recklessness, which could only endanger his safety.

And thanks to these thoughts, Fio couldn't sleep at all. So, she chose to go out to the streets and wander in the night. It's a rather cold night tonight, but she could care less about the weather of the temperature. The rune knight just walked without direction, leaving the inn before she even realized it. When her mind finally checked in again, she already stood near the legendary tree of Amatsu. It's just a huge sakura tree, really. Too bad this isn't the time for it to bloom so there are no sakura petals dancing in the air for her to witness to. And Fio just realized although she almost lived here for a year, this is the first time she saw the tree in person. Should have been here for spring, not that she didn't appreciate Elraven's newest steak for spring: Wild Rose's steak. Now thinking of it, why did she eat that in the first place?

"Princess Fiorentin?" Gratefully, the voice of someone calling for her diminished that particular train of thought, "What are you doing here so late at night?"

"Captain Barragan" Fiorentin quickly recognized her caller, "I…I couldn't sleep. So I thought I'd walk outside till I feel like actually resting"

"Oh…" Emilio weakly nodded, "I'm sorry for surprising you. But I happened to pass by here and saw a familiar silhouette, turned out it was you"

"You can't sleep too?" Fiorentin wryly asked.

"Um…yeah, more or less so" Who would have thought a mass insomnia occur when Elraven's not around, eh? "I've been trying to rest for hours but my eyes just wouldn't shut. I wonder why…"

The answer is, of course, cause both are worried of Elraven. But my money's on them not noticing that for now.

"Oh, since you're here and talking about insomnia won't lead us anywhere. I hereby apologize for the doings of my underling, Elraven Sinclair, Princess Fiorentin" Emilio took the responsibility like a man and rose to the occasion, apologizing for the behavior of his vice captain, "While it's true he was under some spell of sort doing the deed, what he has done is still unacceptable. If you'd like it, I'm going to exact a formal punishment on him as soon as he returns from his current mission"

"Ah…that…" A touchy subject for both, but Fio wouldn't just stay silent when that particular name is involved, "I'm grateful for your concern, and I have to say apology accepted. However, I do believe a formal punishment is unneeded"

"Are you sure about this? You can still change your mind"

"No, I'm sure about it. Elraven's okay, besides I'm exacting my own punishment to him now"

"Really? I just remember Elraven telling me the same story but I wasn't really paying attention" Being an ass he is, Emilio gleefully smirked of his best friend's suffering, "Mind telling me more on the subject, Princess Fiorentin?"

"Oh, it's nothing big really. I, Felicia, and Olivia just decided to disregard his presence and his words. It was quite amusing seeing him trying to talk his way out of it" Cruel Fiorentin…

"What a coincidence! My entire squad excluding Tyrael did the same" Cruel Emilio…

"Tyrael didn't join the act?"

"Well, he was too busy daydreaming about having a relationship with Felicia, so he could care less about Elraven" Emilio simpered at the thought of Elraven desperately trying to make his presence known, must have been priceless to see, "And how did he react?"

"With a ridiculously upset face" Evil, evil Fiorentin, "I was pleasantly surprised he didn't bawl like Frea did whenever she bemoaned Elraven's lack of capability of deciding things"

"Hm, so that was what Elraven trying to tell me…" Recalling the event from yesterday, Emilio's simpered even wider and wider, proud of his victory, "Since we're already talking about this matter, how long are you planning to abandon him?"

"I haven't decided the timeline, but I wish what we're doing to him teaches him a valuable lesson" Well, be grateful they aren't entirely evil, "He can't be completely insensitive for the rest of his life. He needs to accept the fact things he commit may hurt other people despite his tendency to not realize it. I'm aware of the fact it's completely impossible to turn him 100% sensitive, but if he's aware of the consequences I think that's more than enough"

"I was thinking the same thing, what a coincidence! I do wish for him to be more aware of his surroundings" How could Emilio have disagreed? "But, I think our brief effort will be fruitful"

"How's so?"

"I heard from my father, Elraven asked the help of Miss Helen to postulate a new recipe for his newest steak. He said as soon as he's finished with the Valkyrie armor thingie, he's gonna present us with the steak" The captain of the Ropera Squad crossed his arms and closed his eyes trying to remember, "If I'm not mistaken he wants to make an Ifrit Steak…should he waste Ifrit"

"Ifrit Steak? Is fire even edible?" Fiorentin is horrified of the thought of having to eat an entire dinner plate of flame from hell, "I cannot even begin to imagine what's it looks like! Much less its taste!"

"I can't picture that in my mind either…what a unique guy, that man"

"Yes…unique indeed"

If he didn't have anything better to do, Emilio would have wondered why the hell he befriended such a psycho in the first place, "Regardless, I think it's noteworthy that he spotted the fact we were upset over his doings. And although his way of apologizing is unique, I think in the end what matters is he meant well"

"Okay, there's that bigger picture I think I can live with" Finally a resolve, "Well, it's been fun chatting with you. Come to think of it, this is the first time the two of us have spent some time speaking something that doesn't include formality of missions"

"Now that you state it , that's undisputedly true, Princess Fiorentin" Your best friend and your budding love interest on the same side, wouldn't you just love that? "Alright, I guess we'll just to wait and see what Elraven brings for dinner, then. Only then we can truly find out whether apology accepted and re-regard of his presence would be available or not"

"Indeed" Both Fiorentin & Emilio nodded in agreement, "But I think the least of all we should have given him Godspeed. As much as he is currently despicable, he's still undergoing a mission for our sake. I think if the plan goes correctly as he wants it with the help of his steak, I will apologize to him for that"

"So shall I" Another mutual agreement, "For now, we can only wish him good luck"

"Seconded"

"Although…"

"Yes, Captain Barragan?"

"I…kinda think things aren't as fun when he's not around" Emilio slowly rubbed the back of his head, not knowing whether it is the right thing or not to say this, but eventually chose to go all the way, "Even though Elraven is not without his flaws, he's pretty good to have by your side. When the time counts for it, he's pretty dependable and trustworthy"

"That I cannot disagree, Captain Barragan" Is it just me or there's lots of agreements tonight? "Looking back, we wouldn't even formed an alliance in the first place if it were not for him"

"He did have his moments, Princess Fiorentin" Both slightly laughed to the remark. Thankfully although El made lots of enemies in the span of one night, they still remember his plus qualities. Friends do that all the time, don't they? "I'm glad to have him as someone who's got my back"

"So am I" Maintaining her glaring smile, Fiorentin responded.

With that, apparently there's nothing more to be talked about. Both can sleep fairly well for the rest of the night.

"We'll adjourn, then. Good night, Captain Barragan" Fio politely said before she walked back to the inn.

"Good night, Princess Fiorentin. Pleasant dreams" Emilio replied and headed back to Pegasus.

As the night gradually became colder and darker, Amatsu finally fell asleep.

Around three hours later, in Asgard…

The moon no longer radiates in Asgard, so when it's nighttime it's even darker around there. And beneath that darkness, Elraven was resting his body against the tree he ate dinner nearby earlier. Much like Fio & Emilio in Amatsu, he couldn't get his body to shut down and take a proper rest after trying to do so quietly. So he thought what the hell. He would just do whatever till he finally goes shut down. He's been trying for an hour and needless to be mentioned, it was a one unsuccessful hour. Bored, he pulled out his talkie from his bag, and toyed with it just for the sake of having a decent time waster.

"You have lots in mind?" A soft spoken words poked at him from behind, "You can't sleep with that much worry inside your head, El"

"Frea?" That's right, his ex, "Why are you here? You can't sleep too?"

"Yes" She simply answered, resting her body against the tree right next to him, "I have lots in mind as well"

"About tomorrow?"

"Mostly about tomorrow, there are other things as well"

"Such as?"

"Whether you will marry Princess Fiorentin or not"

"What? What? What? What? What?" Elraven jaw dropped so deep it would have rivaled the depths of Yggdrasil, "Mar, marriage? What makes you think of marriage? Between I and her, no less?"

"I had no idea you could react as mightily as that" Frea showed her amusement in her small laughs, "And relax, I was only teasing thou. But your reaction gave me more than what I bargained. A time well spent"

"That's not funny, you know!" The gunslinger grunted, "That's not something you should be joking about"

"Alright, I'm sorry. But that makes the mood a bit lighter, doesn't it?" An honest goal behind a joke, very few could pull this off, "You think you can sleep tight now?"

"I don't know, your joke made my eyes wide open. I think I'm going to stay awake all night at this rate" Hm, so Elraven could be grumpy after all.

"Oh, please. Don't act like Fenrir, will you? I already said sorry, didn't I?" The soul linker threw a weak friendly punch to her ex's shoulder, erasing Elraven's grumpy look from his face, "Now, that's better"

"I guess you're right, I have lots in mind" Elraven finally admitted, "I had things I wanted to say but everyone refused to listen thanks to what I did a couple nights ago"

"Poor soul, why don't you tell me what you have in mind right now?"

"For real?"

"For real"

"Alright" And without further ado, "I wanted to apologize to Alexandria, Emilio, and the others. No, actually I did apologize but my apology wasn't accepted for a reason or two. I finally realized how lonely it was when the people you care about refuse you. While it's true I was under the control of a power I couldn't contain within myself, I shouldn't have done all the things I did. I'm very sorry for what I did"

Frea descended both her eyes listening to that. She shifted those two spheres of hers to El's dark eyes and maintained them inside there. Elraven is never one to sense other's feelings, and that seems to be his most obvious weakness. But he's also a very very honest man. He can't lie to his feelings, much less others'. Likewise, Frea didn't catch any hint of lie in his words he relied to her. Not even in a single letter. He's honest, and so is his apology. It's impossible for the goddess not to feel pity for him. Lento and restfully, she wrapped her hand around his shoulders, delivering a flicker of warmth to him as he turned his face, decked with solemnity, and focused at her and her only, "Don't worry, they'll forgive you. You're honest and your feelings will reach to them"

"Really?"

"Really, El. Don't we all make mistakes to one another in a certain point of our life? It's normal wanting to be forgiven. I'm sure if your feelings are deep and sincere enough, they will reach to Princess Fiorentin, Emilio, and the rest" For once, Frea spoke like her (true) age, with wisdom and understanding in her words, "And then they will forgive you and take you back, just like the way it once was"

"Wow…that's really enlightening, Frea. Thank you" See? Even Elraven is impressed, "Dear, it's been so long since we have a talk like this. It's really refreshing, my mind feels like it's been replenished with hope"

"Why, thank you" Frea mirthfully fabricated a smile in her face, obviously happy being complimented by someone who used to be so close to her, both literally and emotionally, "Now that I think of it, it was a long time ago we spoke like this, just the two of us"

"Like the good old days, huh?" Elraven welcomed the trip down to the memory lane with open arms, "Ah, this brings back memories"

"All kind of memories" Frea implied the memories weren't always nice.

And surprisingly El seemed to somehow realized it, "Sorry for that"

"What? Did I hear that, right? You're apologizing?"

"Yeah, no mistake in there" Pay attention, our boy's a gentleman now, "I apologize for my disability to choose when it mattered. Sorry it cost us something special"

"Wow…Elraven Sinclair…the most insensitive man walking on Rune Midgard…caught what I implied within a second…and apologized?" Frea uttered her words while slowly shaking her head with disbelief written all over her face, even in her eyes, "Unbelievable! You should have said that in front of everybody else! TV news reporters should have been here to immortalize this historic moment!"

"Please…I'm quite aware of my environment, Frea" Elraven had to roll his eyes so Frea actually took some note, "Alright, maybe my insensitivity is glorified by the others so much people believe I'm unable to feel what others may feel. The truth is, I have gotten better since yesterday. I told you I felt terribly lonely last night, right? I guess I also realized I have to start paying attention to what others might feel next time. So, why not start from now, right? Besides, it was indeed my fault. I was man enough to admit so, there you go"

"It IS indeed a nice surprise! I never thought you could be so sensitive! And to think it was a day of void that changed you, wow!" Frea wasn't being sarcastic at all; she was enthusiastic about a little part of Elraven's insensitivity withering away. After all, that part of Elraven is the one part everyone had a hard time dealing with, "If you keep going like this, I'm sure they will all forgive you!"

"Thanks, but I do have something in mind to manifest my apology" Loyal readers would have known what Elraven was talking about.

"What is it? Tell me! Tell me!"

"My latest food project…" Wait for it, "Ifrit steak!"

"…" Frea was cramped by utter silence, clearly expressing her lack of understanding of the so called latest food project, "Did I hear that right? Ifrit steak?"

"Yep"

"You're planning to cook Ifrit?"

"Yes"

"With what? How?" Frea's hope for Elraven to become more aware of his surroundings has just decreased by miles, "You cannot cook Ifrit! He's made of fire!"

"Frea, with proper thoughts and measure, there is nothing you cannot do in this world" Elraven layered his words with confidence, feeling like he's Socrates in the inside.

"So with proper thoughts and measure I can turn myself into an elephant?" Frea wished Elraven realized this is sarcasm, or else her hope of ever curing Elraven would go south.

"Yes, why not? I'm sure there's a magic skill for it somewhere" And the hope has indeed gone south…, "But why would you want to be an elephant anyway? I think you're fine the way you are"

Frea is defeated; it is so clear she doesn't need anyone stating it for her. El's insensitivity is from another planet if there was ever one, "…El…sometimes I cannot tell whether you are taking your conversations seriously or not. But if you're confident in your plan, then so be it. I hope it turns out to be far from fruitless"

"I also hope for the same" Elraven's maintained his innocent manner, "I cannot bear the imagination of never seeing to any of them ever again. That is the worst thing possible for me"

"Worse than even death?"

"Far worse, Frea. That is the one thing I'm afraid the most" Elraven didn't notice it; with his talkie in his hand, he accidentally pressed 'tape'. And in another rare moment, Elraven opened up, "As you know it, my quest to find my family has been far from successful. It's painful having to live day by day, night by night, not knowing whether my mother, father, and maybe siblings are alive or not. After Gen Ed took me in, that feeling stayed the same. During the training and practices, I could not think of anything more than that. Now that I think of it, it was the exact same feeling I felt yesterday. But then….Gen Ed introduced me to Emilio"

Elraven paused right at that point, tilting his head a little bit more so he can look into the moon. The moonlight went across his face, slightly glowing his face as he remembers the good old days. Frea caught a flicker of smile in his face. "He's a keeper, that guy" The lonely gunslinger continued, a joyous tone inside each and every word he uttered, "When I first met him, he disliked me a great deal. I guess that's because he's the only son in Barragan household. He only has two older sisters, so maybe he was never really rivaled by another boy at that time. He was really pissed off whenever something I did bested his attempt. When Gen Ed allowed me to reside in his majestic residence, Emilio was furious, you know? He always tried to sabotage my room via weird measures like planting mines in my bed or hiding active C4 in my drawers. It's almost like he was trying to kill me"

"Elraven…he WAS trying to kill you!" Sometimes, speaking to Elraven is like speaking to a brick wall.

"Nah, he was just joking. Besides, all his attempts ended up in failure" Know what I'm saying? "But within the process, we came to know each other well. I found out he was stubborn, never wanted to lose even for the silliest bit, a virtual glory-hog, and an incredibly bad gambler. But above all his minuses, he was loyal, diligent, honest, and responsible. He looks over anyone he cares for, be it his family or his team. He strives to bring the best out of himself despite many limitations, one of them not being a godlike like his father. And it was through our interactions I no longer felt empty. He filled something in me. Our brief rivalry shifted my attention from my pain to the joy I could experience by befriending someone. Ultimately, he saved my life during a raid in the academy. Ever since then, we were always together no matter what we do. He's got my back while I got his. Although I have never outright stated this in front of him, I am always thankful of him. It was thanks to him I got to know Tyrael, Martina, Sasha, Clyde, and eventually Hugo as well. Life in Einbroch was like living with one huge family, with him, the squad, and his family"

Hearing what Elraven just said, Frea is now sure. Although they fought a lot, Elraven always speaks of Emilio with smile and respect. Similarly, sometimes she also noticed that trait in Emilio as well. "So Elraven does have this soft emotional side in him he doesn't usually show to everyone" Frea concluded to herself. Now that she knows about this, yesterday's rejection, although a bit humorous and deserving, must have hurt him deeply. Otherwise he wouldn't have opened up.

"And a year ago, he trusted me to be the first ever soldier from The Military of Einbroch to come down to Rune Midgard post the fall of Prontera. And there, I met Alexandria and the others" The insensitive yet lovable dude resumed his story, "When I first arrived, I happened to land in Alberta, which was pretty much left out of Valdomir's wrath for undisclosed reason. So, I took a job in a local inn, tending the kitchen and the kids. It was there I encountered Sagramore for the very first time. My first impression of them was quite weird. George could be idiotic at times, but he's good at heart and resolved to be better. Now that he's got Fenrir in him, I think he has improved if he's ever given a chance. Olivia came across to be introverted at first, but ever since her return with Eremes, she was like a different woman, both as a person and as a fighter. Felicia is obviously the mother figure of the group. She mostly stayed behind the scenes, but she practically glued the whole group together. And being the unsung hero she is, she concealed her ability pretty well despite the fact her ongoing feud with a particular ruler of Niffleheim pretty much revealed that she is a very capable fighter, having faced one of Valdomir's Big Six in a one on one bout and managed to survive. And then, there is Alexandria who made the most impression"

"This should be interesting" Frea reminded herself to pay more attention, seeing Elraven is going to open up about perhaps the most important figure in this whole war.

"Alexandria was like the female version of Emilio, minus the glory hog and gambling part of course. They shared similar traits of being responsible, loyal, diligent, and honest. But I do think she is more serious, and most of the times she is too hard on herself, it's almost like she's trying to shoulder everything alone. But she also has a cute part in her, in which sometimes she can be extremely clumsy. So much she made an embarrassment out of herself…but those embarrassments mostly included me for some unknown reasons. And this leads to one thing I always wonder about her: why is she so violent at me? I mean, she could be patient to others but whenever the mistake was on my part, she directed her puissant punches at me without ever stating why…" Elraven stopped there with a visible questioning frown in his face.

"Isn't that obvious?" Frea caved another eye-roll, "But of course you wouldn't realize it even if I tell you, El"

"But I respect her as a warrior and a person. She's tough as nail despite her fairly petite size. Among many female combatants I have seen in my life, she may very well be the strongest of them all. I nearly had a heart attack seeing her fighting Naght Sieger. It's almost unbelievable she defeated him alone by herself without any assistance" Elraven relinquished something that happened not too long ago, yet very memorable, "Watching her back there, I can tell that she shone the brightest when she defended something she hold dear to her heart. I finally understood why her comrades followed her. She's a gift, a keeper"

The soul linker, having regained her sight, is now truly able to witness how El's face looks when he speaks of a certain Rune Knight. He does not show only respect, but there is something else. Something even herself cannot truly put it outright. But before she figure out what it is, Elraven already continued, "And before I knew it, both Ropera Squad and Sagramore have became a huge part of my life. I cannot shoulder the imagination of not being able to spend days with them again. That's why I really want them to accept my apology. I really like all of them, and I don't think there's a word in this whole world that can emulate my feelings for them. The least I can say is I am grateful for them. I really am".

If Frea ever tells anyone else Elraven Sinclair opened up to her and told her what he truly feels for his friends, maybe people would just laugh at her, believing she just said something silly. But Elraven actually did, and this opened a whole new side of his, never to be seen before. "After listening to you just now, I'm on your side, Elraven" Frea giggled at the thought of just how honest the clueless gunslinger could actually be, "I was being sarcastic when I supported your latest steak earlier, but now I'm truly honest. If you think Ifrit Steak is the way to go then go for it. I'm sure they will accept your apology and, if everything goes accordingly, they will even enjoy your steak"

"Wow, thank you! You're finally on my side!" Elraven didn't even try to stop himself from mirthfully hugging the goddess, "I know my feelings will reach someone sooner or later! Now, there's three of us!"

"Three? There's another one beside me watching your back?"

"Yes"

"Who?"

"Miss Helen"

"From the inn?"

"Yes, who else?"

"Oh, dear...it's her, huh?" Frea put her palm on her forehead, apparently still having something to be stated, "Why doesn't that surprise me? Miss Helen being the first person to help you, of all people. Sometimes I wonder if she's your long lost mother"

"Would be good if she is. I really like her as a mother figure" Oh, Elraven. If you'd only realize you should be careful of what you wish for, "Well, it's good to know I still have my own supporters. Now I got a good feeling my plan will work out just fine"

"You're happy, aren't you?"

"Very happy, Frea. I'm not just happy for your support, but also because I know things will get better for all of us" Elraven grinned just because of that thought. He gave a real huge grin, from ear to ear. His situation was different from Frea's, though. After listening to El's brief history, he soul linker has just now realized what Fenrir told her yesterday might be true, that Elraven is the one thing that pillars the whole alliance together. He is the very first man coming from Juno that managed to befriend important citizens of Rune Midgard and actually bonded with them. He gained their trust and respect, to the extent they eventually believed his peers as well. A feat that has never been seen before because before his coming to Rune Midgard, the citizens of the earth and the citizens of the sky were more or less distant. It's not that they hated each other, but the glaring difference of their culture and their belief made them somewhat reluctant to expand their relationship, because the earth was able to live without the help of the sky and vice versa. It was not until the Fall of Prontera that the condition finally changed. As much as it is a horrible thing to say, maybe the war was what broke that distance. And, albeit intentionally, Elraven was the first one to step in and fill the void, opening the door for his comrades to do the same to form what now is a very solid alliance. But one thing remains to be seen: can the alliance exist without Elraven in it? It is a rather known fact Elraven is a symbol for both sides, a mascot if you'd like: for Einbroch, he has proven that Rune Midgard is a beneficial ally For Rune Midgard, Elraven screams "From Einbroch With Love". Whether everyone realized it or not, Elraven has been the bridge that enables the two realms to communicate and unite. Should something ever happen to him, that means the alliance will have to exist without their mascot, their pioneer? As much as anyone want to dispute it, in a union, especially made up of different sides, the presence of someone who is beyond the distinction of the two sides is important. As such, his presence cannot be easily replaced by anyone. While it's undisputed both Einbroch & Sagramore now have one common enemy, the feeling of losing a particular someone will linger. And considering the fact in history the existence of an important figure is almost axiomatic to the lifespan of the organization he/she influences, there is no need to lie to anyone and say Elraven isn't important to Sagramore-Einbroch Alliance. And even though it may appear unimportant thanks to the fact Elraven is insensitive, it is possible for him being shunned by both sides of the alliance to be proven as a troublesome matter, be it in the present or the future. Because although he appears to be tough and dependable to his peers, at heart Elraven is very fragile. He exists because his comrades and friends exist. He can't exist with them missing. And being the pillar he is, fragile is the least thing anyone would want to expect from him. Frea remembered asked him, around a year ago before the war in Glast Heim, what is he fighting for, and he was unable to even give a proper answer. That means his heart isn't set. He is strong but he doesn't know what he wants, what he wishes for, and what he desires to achieve. A man without a dream is like a castle made out of sand. It appears to be puissant from the outside, but one moderate strike from the wave would shatter it to shreds, leaving nothing to see as the crumbled sands join the others in their foot, eventually being washed away by the sea into nothingness. He is different from Fiorentin who's got her heart set out for her dream. He's different from even Emilio, who knows very well what he wants to get. Elraven's heart is the source of his power, but also his gravest weakness.

Unmistakably, Frea put the thinking into silence long enough for Elraven to capture the concern frolicking in her face, "What's wrong, Frea? You're not happy about it?"

"No, no. It's not that. I'm happy for you, it's just…I was just thinking about something"

"What is it?"

Frea could have lied to the gunslinger, but her behavior would tell more and Elraven would just keep poking at her until she confess. Even after knowing the result would be unfavorable, the goddess chose to be straight and honest, "…do you remember, around a year ago, before the battle in Glast Heim, I asked you a question?"

"Oh…" As insensitive as he may be, Elraven is not forgetful especially about a thing that matters in the form of a memorable question, "That…I do…"

From his tone alone, Frea knew he would rather avoid remembering that question, but they're halfway. Might as well deliver the coup de grace, "What about now? Have you discovered an answer for yourself?"

"…I don't know…I have never really thought about that" And of course, Elraven knew better than to lie and prolong the unpleasant experience, "I'm sorry, but it seems to me that I cannot answer your question"

"I see…" Frea nodded in understanding, "How unfortunate"

The brief happiness the two shared just a minute ago seemed to have sailed south. The grasses moved a little when a slight blowing wind flew across them, connecting with the two silent exes. As the motion connected to their skin, both realize it's about time any one of them actually say something. "Is it…" The gunslinger lifted his head a bit, putting his eyes which are covered by his treasured glasses to the watching moon, "Really important for me to know?"

"It is, Elraven" Frea put out a strict answer for Elraven to listen to, "Imagine if Princess Fiorentin never had her sight locked into regaining her throne back. What do you think would happen?"

"Sagramore would not even exist in the first place" The correct answer.

"True, which should clear to you why a reason to fight is important" Frea carefully resumed, fabricating each tone coming out of her so carefully so she can ensure Elraven hears and understands, "A reason to fight is what guards your heart, Elraven. It is what keeps your soul together so it cannot be torn by any means, by any kind of damage no matter how fatal"

"But…I don't know how to find a reason" The gunslinger retaliated, "Reasoning isn't something I can figure just by sitting and thinking"

"I know, give it some more time. It is something you can only find out by yourself" Frea feels a bit sadness seeing Elraven's moral just practically got lower, but as she felt a year ago, this is something she should say despite its consequences. However, let's not forget Frea isn't a cruel being at all. Even when she has to make someone feels uneasy, she would still give them a closure, "Regardless, it is not something you should find out at this evening. After we deal with this quest and go home, you can think about it in a more proper time and place, okay?"

"….alright" Elraven chuckled at Frea's attempt to cheer him up, "I guess if my apology attempt is successful, I can even discuss this matter with Alexandria"

That is one name that can trigger lots of things around here, especially around a certain ex, "You really fancy her, huh?"

"Well, she's a very nice companion whenever she isn't flaunting her fist around" A slice of firsthand experience from the gunslinger, a.k.a Fiorentin's personal punching bag.

"I suppose you're right" Frea admitted, "Last night I spent a night with her, Felicia, Olivia, and that girl Iris"

"You did, Frea? You hang out with her?"

"Yes, and it appears to me she isn't as bad as I thought she would be. She's actually very friendly when you get to know her" This confession shows why Frea is a very fine adult at heart, "She's very likable, and she doesn't look down on you. I think I understood a little bit more on why she has so many followers"

"I'll say" And this agreement shows why Elraven is a very honest young adult at heart, "Told you she's a keeper"

Frea turned her head to look at Elraven and finally confirmed something: when he's talking about a certain Rune Knight, there's this different smile on his face. It's on the same league with the looks he has when he speaks of Emilio, but with a different feel to it. And it's another one of those things she really can't put her fingers into.

And rather than wasting her time wondering for herself, Frea fired away, "Elraven, can I ask you one thing?"

"What is it?"

"Do you love Princess Fiorentin?" She isn't shy from actually firing away, huh?

"W, w, w, w, what?" And this one isn't shy from overreacting, "Me? Loving her?"

"You heard me"

"No, I mean, yes…wait, I mean…." And the question did a good job putting Elraven at loss words, "I…uh…what I'm trying to say is…"

"Yes?"

"I…well, I did say I enjoy her companion, right?"

"Yes, you did"

"So, that's it"

"That's what?"

"That's what I feel about her"

"Hm, is that why you chased after her two nights ago? Wanting to take away her chastity?" Since the memory is still fresh, I won't bother reminding any of you readers.

"I was under the wrath of the love potion!"

"Yes, but as you know it, love potion brings out your deepest desire, right? Masuo chased after Ty, Iris chased after Princess Fiorentin, and so on. Doesn't that mean you actually like her romantically?"

"Well, I…" And the fat lady sings, which means Elraven's cat and mouse game is over now. Elraven is really not good at lying, "I…"

"No shame on admitting your feelings, you know?" Ever wonder when Frea took the high ground and support ElxFio pairing?

"Alright, let's say I got the hots for her" The dark haired man finally considered the romantic option a possibility, "Is it even legal for us to be together?"

"What do you mean?"

"I'm 21, she's 16. If I ever hit on her, the whole society would condemn me for soliciting sex from a minor!"

"Wait, wait! Why are we talking about sex?" Even Frea wondered why, "Whoever said you have to make out with her right away?"

"No, don't take it literally! I was exaggerating, okay? I mean, you know how the mind of the people works: Adult A is good friend with Kid B, Adult A's a pedo"

"You're close to her and no one calls you a pedo even now, Elraven"

"That's because I never hit on her! If I start now, who knows what would happen, Frea?"

"Well, then just wait for her to be legal"

"Legal?"

"Yes, she will be 18 in 2 years, right? So, just wait a couple years before getting it on with her" It sounds so simple when she said it like that.

"Okay…let's suppose I am willing to wait 2 years" He is willing, he just doesn't know that yet, "What do I do in these two years?"

"The usual, hang out with her while keeping yourself in line. Your act two days ago ruined much of your image, you have to make up for it somehow, right? This is the best way" Frea gave out her advice like a veteran wedding planner, don't you think? "All I can say is good luck to you"

"Hey, I never said I really want to hook up with her, okay? Our conversation was based under the assumption that I would, but as of now, that is obviously not my top priority" Who would have thought Elraven possess a bit trait of a male tsundere? I guess that what happens when you hang out around a real tsundere too much, "I have other things in mind"

But don't call her Frea if such impromptu rebut stagger her, "You didn't seem to bother about your other priorities when we were still together"

"Well…that's…I…" and Frea seemed to hit bulls-eye, because Elraven's face disclosed his defeat of not being able to respond to the whole world

"Still going to say something?" Frea said something that is synonymous to 'give it up, brat. You will not win'.

And being the fighter he is, Elraven knows when to raise the white flag, "Fine, I'll say it. I care for her safety and I wish her well. And most of all, I don't want her to die. But, that's it. Nothing more, nothing less"

At long last, a glimpse of victorious smile could be seen in Frea's face. Her mission is complete, "See? Was that so hard? Admitting it makes you feel better, right?"

"Maybe, I don't know"

"Oh, don't be bitter like that" The silver haired goddess gave Elraven a friendly deck on the shoulder, "I'm glad if you're happy with your feelings for her"

"Enough about me, Frea. What about you?"

"What about me what?"

"Tell me about you and Fenrir"

"Fe, Fenrir?" Now, Elraven finally got the upper hand, "What about him?"

"Oh, please! You think I don't know? The whole world knows he's in love with you!"

"He, he is?" And who would have thought Frea is a little insensitive? I guess that what happens to you if you make out with insensitive people, eh? "I, I don't know that"

"Now you do" Elraven crossed his arms, "What you gonna do about it, huh?"

"Well…this is very sudden…" Frea's looks turned a bit pale, "I, I don't know he likes me romantically…"

"That's because you're insensitive" Coming out from Elraven, that sounds wrong, "But I bet you also like him, huh?"

"What? No…I mean, I like him as a friend, but I don't have any particular crush on him…" Frea' face got reddened and reddened, "Ow, what am I gonna do now? You shouldn't have told me Fenrir likes me!"

"You would find out sooner or later, so I figured what the hell" The gunslinger playfully shrugged his shoulder, obviously trying to hide his ulterior motive which is getting even with Frea for the earlier 'forced' confession, "It's nice to know someone still fancies you, huh?"

Too bad for Elraven, apparently Frea is able to figure out that much, "You're a mean jerk! You just want some payback cause I made you confess, don't you?"

"I take 'em where I can get 'em" And just like how he is, Elraven didn't even try to conceal his objective, "Don't you like Fenrir?"

"It's….I don't dislike him…but I am not ready accept his feelings"

"Why not?"

"Because he isn't even in his real body! I mean, if I and he actually nurture a relationship, does that not mean I'm gonna have to have sex with George?" Does that come out disturbing, pals? "I mean, George is quite a charming man when he's not being a complete airhead, but it's just wrong, you know what I'm saying?"

"Alright, that's acceptable" It does not take long for the statement to make sense even for Elraven The Insensitive, "But you're happy for his feelings, aren't you?"

"Perhaps…I don't know…" The soul linker puffed her face so Elraven doesn't even have to think to learn of her anger.

"Oh, come on. You deserve some happiness at least once in your life, Frea. I think Fenrir suits you just fine"

Being the insensitive being he is, Elraven has not the faintest idea how offensive his statement was, "What do you mean I deserve some happiness for once in my life? My life is good enough as it is!"

"Hey, don't get mad at me. It's just…when I take a look back at your life story, I think you deserve a closure for everything that befell on you, Frea" Not knowing how else to deliver his lines, Elraven chose to be blatant, "When you were still in Asgard, you were in conflict of having to choose between Odin & Loki, and ended up losing your life as a deity thanks to Ragnarok. When you were in Rachel, things looked good until Beelzephir screwed it all up. And when you were with me…you know what I'm trying to say. I think…it's just, you lost so many things you held dear, your life, your friends, everything. Even with Sagramore, I kinda think you're somewhat distant from the others. I think you deserve happiness when you can still get it, Frea. And if Fenrir is the destined one for you then why not, right? Besides, what is it that makes you the happiest?"

"Oh…that's what you mean…" Now that Frea saw Elraven meant well, her anger dissolved quicker than a blink of an eye. All the time, he's just concerned about her well being although they are no longer in relationship. But it's just like him to be so honest and caring. The goddess found it impossible not to reciprocate his thought, "I understand if you think I'm sad because of everything I had endured in my lifetime. But be assured that I do feel happiness from time to time. It's true, I'm a bit distant from the others with Sagramore, but now that I actually know Princess Fiorentin and her peers are that much friendly, I'm sure I can get along with them upon our return. Besides my new friends Princess Fiorentin and her gang, I still got my team, I still got Fenrir, and I still got you"

"Me?" Oh, ow. Old feelings are starting to bloom again around here, "Why me, Frea? I mean…we're not a couple anymore…and it was you who…"

"I know, I get it, El. There's no need to say anything anymore" That's an indelible old scar Frea would rather not touch ever again, "It's just…you were just saying something about my happiness, right?"

"Correct"

"Now…that you mention it….in my whole life….I…" Each of her words bears incredible weight in it, but Frea uttered it one by one, no longer wanting to hide it seems, "I…was…the happiest…"

Unfortunately, the conversation had to meet premature end courtesy of Randgris who threw a sudden attack from their back, "Freyja, Elraven, aren't you going to sleep?"

"Oh? Randgris?" Elraven is taken aback, as is Frea, "No, we…we're just chatting"

"Must be a long chat because I have listened to the two of you for almost half an hour now" A Valkyrie never gets anything by them, huh?

"When you're a valkyrie, nothing gets by you, huh?" Frea stood back up, knowing all too well the next words coming out from Randgris would be an order to go back to bed. Something she chose to save her from doing, "Alright, alright. We're going back to sleep"

"You should be. Tomorrow's a long day" Randgris had the last words when Frea walked past her, "You too, Elraven"

"Fine…" Elraven followed Frea, having Randgris in his back. Feeling tired after all the revelations, it didn't take long for the three heroes to slumber. But the rest does not stop the lingering feelings inside Frea & Elraven. 'What was she going to say?' The gunslinger thought until he felt an urge to finally get a well deserved rest. An insensitive Rachel native, however, chose to look back at Frea for one last time, reasons unknown. Watching her back, he studied her white silky hair from behind, quietly reminding himself of how it once felt to be together with her. He wondered what if things would have been different between them; what if they were still together? Could they be together again? Having a heart to heart conversation with her earlier makes him feel as if their heart silently relying what they feel to each other. It was so liberating, yet frightening at the same time. And the possibility that worries him the most is no other than their untimely encounter with The Fire God of Rune Midgard tomorrow. Nothing Elraven could possibly want more rather than going to her side and aiding her to defeat Ifrit once and for all. Not only for the sake of those who might suffer his wrath but to those who have fallen victim to it. And it's a rather known fact Elraven has a personal vendetta against Ifrit. And he can feel it very well. This is it; this is one of those defining moments everyone has to go through in their lives. This is where they part to decide whether or not they can make it out of this place in one piece. In each and every battle they took part in, there was always the consequence of dying in the first place. But very few hold the importance of what this particular quest retains. If they fail, they are not the only one who will have to take the horrendous consequences. There are people waiting for them back at home: their families and friends. Failure to finish the objective of this mission means losing those people, and they cannot afford to experience that risk. They have to succeed. Something inside him tells him whatever the outcome of this journey is; things will never be the same. He will come back a different man and so will his two companions. Right at this moment, Elraven finally feel how heavy an entrusted faith could be. El could feel his shoulders becoming heavy, as if someone put a bag of stones in each. Looking at Frea, he understands the soul linker isn't feeling the same burden. Now he knows, this is what she meant by knowing for who and what it is they are fighting for. She knew it very well while he didn't. She was right, without ever knowing that there is no way he could defeat himself, much less Ifrit. As much as it hurts him to admit this, he does indeed not have any place between Frea & Ifrit. Someone like him, who doesn't even know what his heart wants, is better off elsewhere doing something else completely. Frea was right to ask them to entrust the cross of fighting Ifrit to her. Right now, if anyone can eliminate The Embodiment of Hell for good, it's her. What he has to do tomorrow is supporting Frea with everything on his arsenal and claim The Orb of Edda. Now, Frea has finally gained his trust to do the battle for their sake. There is no single doubt left in his heart any longer. And he wanted to voice up but Elraven didn't say anything that might wake the two ladies sleeping. "Good night, sweetheart" He whispered, and he whispered only because he knew anything above a whisper might attract unnecessary factors. A lovely string of words that wither as it dance in the windy night. Elraven closed his eyelids, finally going to a slumber after relieving himself of the many thoughts he had in mind.

Little did he know that the entire time, Frea was awake. Awake and aware of what he was thinking. And that is true, Frea could hear what his heart was talking. A soul linker, after all, is not just a mere name. Those who have transcended their true power are able to listen to even the deepest of humans' hearts. And since they were once lovers, she could hear every word that crossed El's inner soul. Every one of his thoughts, she was well aware of it. And if only she could tell him she feels the same as he does. If she is allowed to make a confession, she will definitely say she feels the same way as he does. But she knew, she has to wait until this whole gala in Asgard is over until saying the truth. Maybe if fate is on her side, she can win him back. And she keeps this in her mind although she knows the competition will be quite fierce with a certain Rune Knight wandering around. But she could care less about that. She was pleased of what he said. And that is more than enough for her.

0000

Finally, the next morning…

With the big day finally coming, the three prepared for their quest right after they awoke from their brief slumber. Just like yesterday, the grey color still ligers atop the sky in the Citadel of Gods. The three stay rather silent the whole journey, with their mind mostly wandering. El's wandered what was Frea going to say to him; Frea's wandered whether or not her action last night would bring trouble; and Randgris' seriously wandered whether or not the revelations undisclosed last night would hinder the quest. But their minds, just like other genius minds, think alike upon their arrival to the gigantic roots of Yggdrasil. Not only because they have encountered their destination, but also because a rather familiar yet resented figure is visible to all of them, waiting for them with his arms crossed. "WELCOME" The much known figure greeted the three travelers, which can be seen preparing themselves to the upcoming battle, "I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR THE THREE OF YOU"

"What, you're bored?" Frea answered, indirectly reminding the other the agreement they made yesterday that she would take on Ifrit alone, "You can always leave if you are, this world is a much better place without you around"

"A GOOD CHOICE OF GRAMMARS, I SEE. SOMEONE APPARENTLY REMEMBERS HAVING TO BE SARCASTIC ALL THE TIME. DO YOU NEED ME TO LAUGH?"

"Go ahead, as long as you do it outside this very place"

"OH, THAT CAN BE ARRANGED, FREYJA" The Fire God of Rune Midgard uncrossed both his arms and formed a pair of legs like he usually did when he took his opponents seriously, "AFTER I ROAST THAT DISGUSTING SMIRK OF YOURS, I WILL BE LAUGHING SO HARD THE WHOLE ASGARD CAN HEAR MY VOICE ECHOING"

"Keep telling yourself that, Ifrit" Frea stepped away from her companions, slowly making her way towards the fire creature, "After I'm done with you, your history will be just like that, history"

"YOUR SMART MOUTH HAS BLABBED ENOUGH!" Ifrit wasted no seconds summoning Hortus Deliciarum and shot the huge fire blast to Frea's direction. Frea, Elraven, and Randgris escaped before the merciless spell consumes them, like it did to the terrain they stood at just before. The soul linker leapt to cut his distance with her opposition, and called forth a huge Frost Nova right on from below the ground with a movement like a snake, slightly resembling Frost Drive. Ifrit stopped the magic attack before it touched him simply by throwing one fire ball at it, refocusing his vision to Frea again who by now is very close to him, close enough to throw a flying Roundhouse Kick directed at his face with her right leg, right after maneuvering her body mid-air. Ifrit quickly grabbed her attacking leg and threw her to Yggdrasil, a counterattack she easily dismantled by turning her body 360°, still in mid-air, and stopped by before she hit the mythical three. Regaining her stance, Frea looked at her two friends and shouted, "Elraven! Randgris! Don't waste your time here! Go now! We don't have much time!"

Randgris said nothing anymore and did as she was told by flying right through Yggdrasil, heading to its top. Without even saying anything, they understood. Their hearts are linked to each other; their feelings are mutual: they want to live. There're so many things they still want to talk about. Their story cannot end here, not in this place. They will come back alive and continue with their lives. "Godspeed" Elraven blessed Frea with a single word before he formed his light wings and followed Randgris from behind. Ifrit glared at the two from below, witnessing them progressing to the top of the three, "YGGDRASIL PENETRATES EVEN THE SKY. THEY WILL NOT BE ABLE TO REACH THE TOP SO EASILY. IF THE DISTANCE IS NOT ENOUGH HINDRANCE, THERE IS STILL ONE OTHER REASON"

"Albert Gahn? Oh, they will manage" The Goddess voiced out her confidence of her trusted companions, "I know they will"

"YOU HOLD ON TO THAT THOUGHT, FREYJA. WHEN THIS IS ALL OVER, THE ONLY THING LEFT IN YOUR MIND WILL BE REGRET" Ifrit increased the heat in his body, so hot even Frea could fell how fiery Ifrit is. She wanted a one on one bout against Ifrit and now, she has gained Ifrit's full attention, which is safe to say may very well be a double-edged sword; a fight or flight. But of course the deity is not going to flee now. She knew it all too well: right here at this moment, she is the only one able to eliminate Ifrit for good. And there is nothing more she could possibly want than to achieve that goal. And she also understood, inside his flaming eyes, Ifrit is also looking at the same objective…

0000

Located so high in the sky, even when the gunslinger and the valkyrie used their full speed to reach the top of Yggdrasil it still took almost 15 minutes to even begin seeing the end of their road. The top of Yggdrasil is hidden among millions of leaves decorating its pinnacle for ages. It's actually just a wide forest with floors made of woods. In the ancient times, it was used to be the gate to many other worlds the Gods and Goddesses used mostly to expand their knowledge. However, Ragnarok destroyed those gates and worlds pretty badly it is now just an old obsolete void layered under the darkest of the skies. But sitting comfortably inside that very ancient place is a small shrine containing a special orb, The Orb of Edda, which is the main reason why the whole plan to protect it was posited in the first place.

Nearing that location, both Elraven & Randgris noted in unison, as their eyes matched each other's, there is a silent certainty they shared, that they both feel a presence in the top of Yggdrassil, a very strong presence that is more than likely will serve as an obstacle should they want to continue obtaining the Orb of Edda. They set their feet on the top of Yggdrasil and quickly discovered their challenge. "Albert Gahn" Elraven called for the attention of the acting king of Valdomir Kingdom, "Or should I say, Satan Morroc?"

And behind him, it's the shrine that houses the orb.

"Any one of those names will do, Sinclair" The mentioned man, dressed in his ever so unique attire, acknowledged the presence of his adversaries, "After all, those two names came from the same root, me"

"Let's not waste our time here" Randgris barged into the conversation, "If you wish for a fight, then let's get on to it, Morroc. But if your wish is just for a cheap conversation, then save it for another time. We've got better things to do"

"Ah, feisty. Just like I had hoped for Odin's most loyal Valkyrie to be" The Destroyer of Rune Midgard retained his serene nature regardless of the threat, "I have all the time I need in this world, Valkyrie. And so are you, so why don't we cherish this moment by enjoying ourselves rather than hurrying to get The Orb of Edda. You Valkyries really need to learn how to relax a little bit more"

"The only thing that would make me cherish this moment is seeing your head cut off" The ever so serious Valkyrie transformed her right arm into her trusted Grey Flamed Javelin, indicating her patience isn't abundant in nature indeed. Even Elraven could feel how hot the Javelin is, and it isn't even pointed at him, "So, are we going to do some action, Morroc?"

"…interesting, it turn out that you're the more eager side to fight. And to think I allowed myself to be positioned up here to see some spirit from The Angel of Darkness" Gahn's response made Randgris turned her eyes to El, who seemed startled himself.

"Me? You're out for my head?" A question which Gahn answered by a simple nod, "I know I'm a major candidate for the status of public enemy number one in Valdomir Kingdom, but I always imagine it would be Ifrit who'd want to fry me alive. As far as I can recall, other than a very brief encounter in Glast Heim, we don't have much history together, do we, Gahn? Mind specifying your reason?"

"It's quite simple, Sinclair. It was you who made all this possible for your alliance" The same revelation like what the deities have figured out is finally out, courtesy to a certain turbaned man-demon, "Your coming to Rune Midgard from Einbroch was what started the challenge for Valdomir Kingdom. It was thanks to your assistance that Sagramore managed to claim several pivotal points in Valdomir's territory back. It was you who made the unlikely alliance between heaven and earth possible. It was you who saved Alexandria's life in Glast Heim. And despite the fact our side won the war back there, Millennium managed to seize our lost territories all thanks to you who drove the alliance and turned our attention at your side, allowing Millennium to take advantage of it"

"You need to get your facts straight, Gahn. I don't drive the alliance, Alexandria does. I'm just a simple underling in the alliance" Doesn't it amaze you how at times like this Elraven can still be insensitive?

"Yes, but all those achievements and alliance wouldn't have been possible if it weren't for you tampering, Sinclair. Which reminds me more of the sixth page of The Prophecy of Einsenheim. And I quote 'As The Five Kings of Prontera rise above the land of Midgard to challenge The Transcendent, The Oath Keeper will spread his wings of hope to ensure destiny stand by the right side'" There's a brief pause after that, giving Elraven & Randgris at least a chance to digest what Gahn was talking about, "Now, I can see it from your face that none of you understands the implication. I have a clear idea of who The Five Kings of Prontera are, who the Transcendent is, and of course, who The Oath Keeper is"

"Me? You think The Oath Keeper is me?" Elraven pointed at himself despite not fully understanding the content of the prophecy.

"Correct, which is why I feel challenged, Sinclair" Now here comes the serious part, "You see, I earned the nickname of The Destroyer of Rune Midgard not for nothing. I obliterated Morroc into a gigantic land of sand and would have destroyed this land if it weren't for a few miscalculations. Now, I have a second chance to right my wrong. But again, I have to meet a challenge, this time in the form a man prophesied as a savior, someone who triggers an entirety which changed the course of the world which has been delicate before he started his actions. And it was you, Sinclair, you are that man"

Gahn spoke his words with stern expression on his face, unusual for his calm nature, "Your existence challenges my pride. Now, where would I place myself if I cannot topple you, Sinclair? You are everything I stand up against. So, don't consider Ifrit to be your sole nemesis on Valdomir Kingdom anymore, consider myself the same"

Elraven stood silently after listening to Albert Gahn, not saying anything as he closed his eyes. But he soon drew out his HAVOX with confidence as soon as his eyelids opening. "Wow, what a luck. I have a god and a demon as my opponents. Can't imagine anyone wanting to walk a mile in my shoes" Vintage Elraven, "But I'm here for The Orb of Edda, not your challenge"

"If that's the case, let's make things interesting. Black Box" Elraven & Randgris missed out the chance to do even the slightest deed when they saw a black cube coming out from below the shrine encasing the shrine almost instantly. Elraven took no time amassed at the sight and fired an array of rapid bullets at the cube after he drew his Tristan, in which he saw all the bullets failing to even scratch the box. "How impatient, Sinclair. You should have allowed me to explain first" Albert Gahn smirked at El's try, "My ability isn't limited only to destroy, but also to create. For example, my particular prowess to manipulate a limitless amount of dark matters at will. With it, I can create an Abyss Break which possesses highly destructive powers, or even shaped objects with solid impenetrability. And that means, there is nothing you can do to break the cube from outside or from the inside…unless you can defeat its creator, me"

"So, to acquire the Orb of Edda we have to defeat you first" Elraven aimed his Tristan at Gahn, "Fair enough".

Elraven fired at Gahn's direction only to see the dusky skinned man disappearing from his sight and reappearing from his left side. An uppercut to Elraven's jaw followed in one second, sending the gunslinger flying to the air. Re-summoning his wings, Elraven regained his standing and charged back to his beneath, gunning for the demon's head as he fired both Tristan and Lancelot at the same time this time. Albert Gahn moved his right hand and in several swift motions, caught all the bullets El fired at him, shocking the gunslinger even further, "No, no way! He caught all the bullets?" He's heard of how people can stop bullets before, but catching them with bare hands is new even to him. The only other man he could think of capable of doing the same might very well be only Gen Ed, "Maybe only General Eduardo can do that! I have never even heard of anyone actually doing that for real in a fight!"

Elraven took up too much time wandering he didn't realize Gahn hurling a black solid ball made of dark matter which hit him in the stomach and send him flying again. Albert Gahn stretched his hand and formed a black sphere in his palm, aiming his Abyss Break at the flying gunslinger. Too bad for him, his attempt was cut short when Randgris slashed her javelin at his arm's direction, forcing him to dodge and losing the Abyss Break in the process. Continuing, the Valkyrie charged at the demon with full speed. Gahn simply put both dark matters in his palm to his upper torso and wait for Randgris to thrust at him, and she did! She pierced him right below her neck with her ever trusted javelin. But the result was an upset for her as her weapon stopped right in the point she was trying to break into. Albert Gahn had stopped her feat just by standing and smiling; her attack didn't even move him an inch, "Impossible!"

Gahn grabbed Randgris by the neck and pulled her towards him harshly. The Valkyrie received a massive elbow attack to her face which startled her balance, followed by a knee strike to her stomach which sent her a great deal upwards. "Aaaah!" Randgris could feel just two attacks really harm her from the inside; Gahn must be far more powerful than he looks even when he's not in his transformed form. Randgris hadn't even had a chance to refocus her sight when Gahn posited right in front of her in mid-air, giving her a double-axe handle punch to her forehead which sent her back to the forest. Quickly rising back to her two feet, Randgris felt her forehead to prove her suspicion to be true: her head is bleeding. Not even four attacks and she's been bleeding. She failed to harm her opponent and is now paying the consequence. With Gahn's sight locked at Randgris, Elraven sealed the chance to charge at Gahn with full speed and full force, HAVOX on standby mode, intending to give Albert Gahn his trademark Gatling Crush. The demon still had his back against Elraven when Elraven smashed him with his mythrill-made Gatling from behind…only to receive the shock back at himself as he and his Gatling Gun was literally pulled back in its wake. "W, what? What just happened?" No answer came to Elraven of course. The only thing that greeted him was Albert Gahn's fist connecting to his stomach, sending him back to the ground near Radgris. The two protagonists looked at each other and silently agreed to cooperate to bring the demon down from his high horse. Elraven pointed his HAVOX at Albert Gahn and unleashed barrage of bullets at him. Albert Gahn simply gestured an open arms by actually opening both his arms, letting every single bullet Elraven targeted at him actually hit his body. Randgris pointed her Javelin at the same direction and shot out fire balls with grey colors. Both the fire balls and the bullets his Albert Gahn successively, hitting him in the head, in his arms, in his legs, and in his torso, but he took everything that was handed to him with a smile. Bullets and fires roared all over the demon it caused smokes all over the air, even Randgris & Elraven lost count on how many bullets and fires they have thrown at him. The gunslinger and the valkyrie decided to cease fire to see whether they actually get some result…but they don't. Gahn is still floating above, unscathed. Not even a scratch is visible on him. "This….is….unreal…" Randgris was lucky she managed to utter her words, because Els' jaw just dropped to the ground thanks to the fact the situation presenting itself in front of him at the moment can't be fathomed by his mind, "You…"

"My turn" Albert Gahn moved his right arm so that his two opponent can see his palm, where he created a small black sphere. Similar to The Abyss Break in color, but this one is much smaller and its inside, a void, is somewhat visible by bare eyes unlike The Abyss Black sphere which is pure dark. In a second, the black sphere wrapped around his hand as Gahn repelled it to the mentioned direction, "Dredger Cannon". Randgris & Elraven was starting to flee when the black sphere outpaced them by sliding right in the middle of their movement and exploding, engulfing both targets at the same time. But different with Purgatorio that wrecks its targets with strong explosive impact, this sphere pressed both Elraven & Randgris with invisible shockwave attack. Both received the shockwave without having any preventive feats. And before long, they both are down to the ground once the sphere disappears to the air. Temporarily subduing his two opponents, Gahn slowly descended from the air, jeering, "Is that all you two have? Upsetting"

Both Frea & Elraven were silenced; they couldn't even reply with proper wording due to their shock. Apparently, the shockwave also paralyzed them, they find it hard to move their fingers, let alone standing back and attack. Albert Gahn just directly received two consecutive attacks from both of them and he didn't even bulge an inch? Anyone else would have at least reacted, but he didn't. El never failed to bring down anyone he could physically touch by firing his HAVOX at his target. And during her fight with Naght Sieger, Randgris was fully aware Sieger tried his best not to get pierced by her javelin. But all Gahn did was standing. In fact, it was them who felt the reaction to both their own powers. In less than three minutes, The Destroyer of Rune Midgard has made the two realize he is on an entirely different plane from them.

But the stake is too high right now; no matter what challenge Albert Gahn is posing, failure to win isn't an option for Randgris & Elraven. Luckily, there might be some hope to them because Randgris noticed something, "You…there is something you do to your own body, right? Before you hit me in the air, both your hands turned black"

"You caught the glimpse of it amidst all that? Praiseworthy, Valkyrie" Albert Gahn showed his dusky skinned hand to his two foes, letting them witness it as it turns to darker color, "Can you guess what causes this?"

"It couldn't be…the dark matter?" Elraven figured it out, "You used the dark matter to cover all over your body? Making yourself impenetrable?"

"Precisely" The demon gave Elraven a thumbs up, obviously mocking his discovery, "As I told you before, the use of dark matter isn't limited only to destroy but also to create. Similar to what I did with The Black Box, I simply covered my skin with solid dark matters to make myself immune to any kind of attacks, as you two have proven firsthand. Dredger Cannon, though, is the use of dark matter under the column of destroying, in case you haven't noticed"

"You…you're not even in your true form, but you can already utilize this much power?" This time, it was Randgris who wanted her question answered.

"Ah, my dear Valkyrie, how naïve of you to say that?" Gahn escaped a little chuckle, much to Randgris' annoyance, "Didn't Odin ever tell you looks can be deceiving? Just because I am using my human form does not mean I am not as strong as my true form"

"You mean, you are now is just as powerful as your demon form?"

"Bingo"

Elraven & Randgris is silenced again. They are not trying to underestimate their potential, but it's pretty clear at this rate they will not prevail over this battle. Satan Morroc isn't just some entity anyone can defeat with a training or two; he is a legendary destroyer of the continent. Elraven now realized how lucky he was to have Gen Ed & Fenrir back there at Glast Heim. They protected the whole gang from Satan Morroc and maybe even now, they are the only two beings in their side able to actually posit a challenge for the demon, "This is bad! We will never win the battle like this! If only Gen Ed or Fenrir were here…what should we do?"

Fortunately, an idea quickly came across Randgris, who quickly whispered it to Elraven, "Elraven, I got an idea"

"To defeat him?" Elraven hoped for the best.

"No, we can just skip that part! I have a better idea, Elraven. Do you remember the special butterfly wings Sarkhan gave to us? The one that can transfer us instantly to any part of earth we desire?" Elraven was reminded of their special one way ticket home.

"Yeah, what about it?" Still not catching the implication, the gunslinger continued, "We only have three of them and they're supposed to be our ticket out! What are you planning to do with it?"

"Listen to me very carefully, Elraven" The valkyrie finally gave out her plan, "Morroc said the dark matter is impenetrable, but he didn't say anything about it not being able to be transferred, right? If I hit the black box with my butterfly wings, it will transfer somewhere else and we can have enough time to touch The Orb of Edda, sending it directly to Sarkhan at Amatsu. I can do this, trust me! The only thing I need is for you to distract him for a minute! That's it!"

That's a good plan, only with a fatal flaw Elraven noticed, "But how will you go home, Randgris? The wings can only transfer one subject, even if I use mine while we're holding hands together, only one of us will be sent back! This is a suicide plan!"

Randgris knew Elraven only showed his kindness by concerning her, but that is the least of the problem right now, "Look, I volunteered because I knew things might go like this, alright? I'm a valkyrie and a valkyrie is always ready to die for a greater purpose. You don't need to think of my well being, Elraven! That's my own business! You just think of how you will fight him for a second! Are you in or not? Answer me!"

Elraven realized, as much as it is unpleasant to admit it, Randgris was right. This fight isn't going anywhere and her plan might be their only chance to claim The Orb of Edda for their own, even if it means death. He is then reminded this is a do or die mission. This is a mission where you cannot fail. This is more than just a war and a quest, this is something else entirely. This is a cross to bear, and a heavy cross at that, because they aren't bearing the weight of three people but the weight of the entire alliance. Sacrifice is an option, failing is not. If they don't do something right here, right now, then they would not only hurt themselves but also their comrades, their friends, their families, who are waiting for them at home, hoping for the best out of them.

With no other choices present, Elraven stood back and looked at Randgris before shouting, "Go!"

His support is all she needs.

Randgris used her full speed to fly past the unsuspecting Gahn. The turbaned man attempted to stop her by trying to grab one of her wings, but he was stopped by Elraven who shot his face with Tristan & Lancelot, "You want a piece of me, Gahn? Then come here and get it!"

"Challenging me up front, how foolish" Albert Gahn took the challenge by speeding up and kneed Elraven at the face. Elraven endured the pain and slammed his gun at Gahn's face; although he knew it was fruitless, at least it will keep Gahn worked. And it was fruitful because Gahn didn't realize what Randgris was trying to do behind his back. The valkyrie flew right to the black box housing the shrine, pulling out her special butterfly wings in the process. Not wasting any more of the time Elraven has provided her with, Randgris finished her gambling by slamming the wings at the box. Thankfully, it lived up to the hype. The black box disappeared in an instant to somewhere else entirely, leaving the shrine open and the box that contained the Orb of Edda visible. Gahn look over his shoulder to see his foil has been dumped, "Huh? What did she do?"

"Nothing, pal. She did nothing" Elraven grabbed him from behind and held him with all his strength to stop him from stopping the valkyrie, "Randgris, now!"

With nothing to disturb her attempt to claim the orb, Randgris sped up right to it. She quickly unlocked the box with the key Fiorentin received from Naght Sieger, the memento from her father. The box opened itself and revealed The orb of Edda to the world, a blue glowing orb with size of a tennis ball. Without blinking, Randgris touch it with her hand. The orb glow a bright light before disappearing from her vision. She did it! Mission completed, "It worked! We did it!"

Back there in Amatsu…

Gen Ed, Sarkhan, Fio, and Emilio are waiting impatiently in the meeting room while everyone else is waiting in the corridor. Sarkhan has set up the meeting right here so the leaders could witness firsthand whether the mission is a success or not. And to avoid further ruckus should all of them be placed in the same place of course. The place to house the orb of Edda was just a simple grail located in the middle of them four. All of a sudden, the orb of Edda appeared right in the grail, which Sarkhan's noticed. "They did it!" Sarkhan quickly grabbed the orb as the other three joined him on his sighting, "This is the real Orb of Edda! The key to Valkyrie Armors! They did it! They really did it! The Orb of Edda is ours!"

"They did?" Emilio took the torch to inform everyone else as he opened the door to the corridor, "Everyone! They did it! The Orb of Edda belongs to us!"

The entire ship cheered to celebrate the findings. Now hope is finally here. When Emilio rushed out to join his friends, Gen Ed stayed inside with a huge smile on his face. "You look pleased, Princess Fiorentin" Gen Ed turned his attention to the rune knight, who is smiling to herself, "Is it because of the orb or because of the fact getting the orb means they are very much alive?"

"Both, General Eduardo. I'm happy because of both" Fio answered ever so joyously, "Now, we only have to wait for them to return"

Without Gen Ed & Fio knowing, Sarkhan's smile of satisfactory from acquiring the as a wonder walked across his thoughts, "That's right, I gave them enough special butterfly wings for them to return almost right after they got the orb…why haven't they used it?"

And even though he kept it to himself, only then he realized, something did go wrong in Asgard…

Back to the top of Yggdrasil…

Gahn grabbed Elraven's wrist, when he was still holding him from behind, and threw the gunslinger away to near the valkyrie, looking pissed. "You did it, Randgris" Elraven congratulated his brave companion for her sacrifice as he got back up. The throwing didn't hurt him as much as their accomplished goal made him happy, "But now that you lost your ticket out, I think we need to clear our way if we wish to hold on until the gate to Odin's Temple reopened in..."

"11 hours" That's not a good news.

"Nice, just what we need. 11 hours with Satan Morroc alone" But that's a good sarcasm from Elraven.

Albert Gahn looked at his two adversaries, not giving much bother to their small talk. "Now you've done it" He stated with anger hanging around his words, but Elraven & Randgris were obviously too pleased of accomplishing the objective of their quest. "It's pretty smart what you did back there. I don't know by what method you dispose of my Black Box, but I admit I didn't expect you to accomplish that feat. Good for you that now you have The Orb of Edda at your disposal, but now that the counterweight to our bargain has vanished, I'm afraid I need not holding back much longer than I have" Albert Gahn stretched his right arm above his head as he formed a Dredger Cannon sphere, this time with five times the size of previous ones. And just like before, it quickly embalmed his right hand, "Super Dredger Cannon"

"This isn't good" Elraven could only mutter when The Destroyer of Rune Midgard sent it toward Elraven & Randgris. In a second, it decompressed….

0000

Unlike how the vaganza is going atop of Yggdrasil, the lower berth remains fairly calm despite having Frea & Ifrit in it. Ever since throwing their words minutes ago, both Asgard natives were more or less quiet. They haven't made any single progress since; not the slightest move in the form of moving a finger and not even a letter uttered. But to say they were in a deadlock would be very very wrong. Within their dead silence, both were studying their oppositions. From their brief encounter yesterday, Ifrit learned that at this second, his and Frea's ability are more or less even, physical or magical wise. Although he has seen firsthand Frea's latest ability to seal his Earthquake & Purgatorio, he had the disadvantage of not being able to decipher what Frea had used to best his two feats consecutively. Frea also realized she has the advantage in this battle because Ifrit didn't seem to be aware of her Kaupe & Kaite. And as long as the fact remains that way, she's got the upperhand. Still, this is Ifrit she's talking about. Although disabling him from using any offensive means should greatly decrease his chance of winning, it is possible he may have more cards in his sleeves. In a battle between equals, one mistake could cost them fatally. This rule applies to both of them and is well known fact for the two. The distance between the two roots gave both fighters a chance to readjust their standing and evaluate their position. Before long, Ifrit meshed his fist to the ground and right from below Frea's standing, a fire pillar came out straight upwards. Frea dodged the attack quite easily by moving cacuminal before it fries her alive. Continuing, Ifrit imbued his right hand with a red sphere, clearly indicating his eagerness to resume his attack, "FLAME STRIKE!". The Embodiment of Hell hit the red sphere to the ground and released a massive wave of flame in the shape of a gigantic fire wall advancing in a moderate speed towards their one and only target, Frea. The soul linker called Frost Nova's dusts to circle between her two hands and tapped in the ground twice, fabricating a similar wave of magic, only this time in the form of a giant ice wall, nearing the size of Flame Srike. The two attacks quickly clashed without any hint of voice and canceled each other out, turning both spells into smokes made of dusts of ices and fires. Before the smokes even clear out, the fire creature summoned ten small flame spheres in the air, clearly the miniature version of his beloved Purgatorio, and launched all of them to Frea, "TRY AVOIDING THESE HOMING SPHERES! THEY WILL FOLLOW YOU EVERYWHERE!". Frea leapt backward through several roots to witness the spheres rapidly following her, proving Ifrit was not bullshitting back there. The soul linker made a good use of her Frost Nova spell and surrounded herself with ten ice spikes positioned at Ifrit's Homing Spheres. Before the spheres even scratch her, Frea countered the spell, one spike for one sphere. Both deities watched how for the second time today, their spells canceled each other out, more than likely obliging them to resume the battle for a little while longer. Utilizing his endless body heat, Ifrit shaped a huge sledgehammer made of fire and hurled it at Frea, "TORCH HAMMER!". In response, Frea jumped as the giant sledgehammer swiped the entire root she just stepped in to dusts, but Ifrit wasn't finished. Capitalizing Frea's weaker position in the air, Ifrit shaped the sledgehammer into a war axe and threw it right at Frea's point, "YOU'RE LIKE A SITTING DUCK UP THERE! AXE BLAZE!". Yet Frea faced the impending attack with calm. She quietly stretched her right hand to the moving axe and murmured to herself, "Kaite". The second her fingers touched the flame axe, it repelled itself back to its sender, signaling Ifrit, "IT'S THAT CRYPTIC SPELL AGAIN!". The Fire God of Rune Midgard reminded himself of the earlier phenomenon similar to the one he is currently witnessing. The axe hit him and caused flame waves to spread everywhere. Unsurprisingly Ifrit could be seen uninjured, obviously because he is immune to any kind of fire type attacks. Nonetheless, his curiosity remains: what kind of spell could possibly redirect something a deity summoned with ease? If only Ifrit had actual facial features, his face would have made a bewildered expression which would no doubt entertain Frea a little bit more. Unfortunately Ifrit only had visible eyes and seemingly invisible mouth so no matter what his expression stays the same. On the other hand, it seems obvious that their magical powers are rather at the same level, which poked the curiosity of both deities to even push the envelope further, this time using a more direct approach.

Frea took charge this time, imbuing her feet with Frost Nova dusts in the process, and kicked by combining her speed & strength at the same time, compressing the dusts into six ice blades in the shape of a sickle running at full speed towards Ifrit. "ABSURD, FREYJA" The Fire God stretched his right arm and simply released a group of Fire Bolts to stop the blades before they were even halfway from his current standpoint. The Soul Linker, however, never intended her attacks to be so simple. She already leapt to above her opposition with another series of ice blades released, this time in the shape of arrows. Ifrit simply amassed an amount of flame atop his body, resembling a shield, and maintained it calmly the shield was successful on stopping all the ice arrows. What he didn't notice, though, was the ice dusts covering his surroundings. Ifrit was too late on noticing this. The two earlier attacks from Frea was just a decoy to cover this trick. Thanks to her new equipments, she was able to retain her spot by floating in the air while resuming her spell, turning the dusts into dozens of ice bolts and sending them all out at once in proximity with Ifrit. Unluckily for Frea, Ifrit's reaction was not late this time. The Embodiment of Hell created a circle of fire wall around a selected area which was his standing, successfully preventing the ice bolts from hitting him. But this too, was another trick by Frea. What she really aimed was the ground Ifrit was standing above. She knew Ifrit would defend against her attack with a fire spell and caused her ice to turn into ice dusts, but ice dusts were just the thing she needed the most. Before Ifrit could react, Frea released a massive wave of Frost Nova from the below the ground, this time completely hitting Ifrit with it. The ice spell quickly covered Ifrit as a whole, turning him into an ice statue. Frea of course knew this is far from over. Such simple trick wouldn't kill Ifrit just like that. It's only a matter of second before Ifrit broke free, stunned regardless, from the ice spell. But seconds are the only thing Frea requires the most to launch her plan. Making a good use of her latest ice blade technique, Frea sent an ice blade in the shape of a swirl that stroke Ifrit like a razor blade and shattered the ice encasing him, as well as visibly shocking him the moment his eyes widened even though that didn't cease him from expressing his anger. "I'M GOING TO DESTROY YOU!" Ifrit embalmed his right fist with Earthquake spell and punched at Frea's direction. The moment it almost hit, Frea whispered to herself, "Kaupe", and successfully dodged the attack, again shocking The Fire God, "HE DODGED MY EARTHQUAKE TWICE WITH ANOTHER ONE OF THAT UNKNOWN SPELL? IMPOSSIBLE!". Frea declined to give the surprised Ifrit a chance to take any kind of defensive measure and decided to attack the still stunned Ifrit with a similar style of attack, this time in the shape of a giant bullet that flies straight ahead to Ifrit's neck. The hit to his neck forced him to take several steps backwards, only to catch Frea not stopping her barrage. The soul linker placed her left hand on the terrain, and in a rapid motion, she spun around in a circle on one hand to create a circle shaped ice blade, as well as freezing the ground with Frost Nova via her left hand. The ice blade connected with Ifrit's lower torso and sent him back a great deal, crashing into Yggdrasil root again. "WHY, YOU?" Ifrit didn't even have the chance to do anything when he realized his feet have been frozen thanks to the Frost Nova from seconds ago, allowing Frea to further attack him. The soul linker took a quick running jump and kicked with both legs to Ifrit's stomach, adding more damage to his already wounded lower torso. She continued with a straight kick on her opponent's upper jaw, followed by a quick flip over before bringing the heel of his foot down to Ifrit's face. The series of attacks didn't just end there for Frea. The goddess jumped over the top of her opponent and aimed her right leg directly towards the dizzied Fire God. She then drops downwards while spinning like a drill to spear Ifrit's head with her extended leg. And finally, Frea's attempts started to bear fruit. It still failed to completely take down Ifrit, but he is visibly hurt after the attack, as seen when he put his right hand on his head, more than likely to check whether it is pain jolting in his body or not. Frea made him sure by leaned forward and launched her left foot right at Ifrit's throat, sending him crashing through the gigantic root into another one behind him yet again.

"IM, IMPOSSIBLE! HOW COULD I BE BESTED LIKE THIS?" Although he is injured he's not down of course, but you can hear him voicing his dismay from a mile away, "HOW COULD YOU CORNERED ME WITH JUST KICKS? WHAT DID YOU DO TO YOURSELF? YOU WERE NOT THIS STRONG WHEN WE MET AT GLAST HEIM!"

"Oh, was that the last straw?" Referring to her series of kicks, Frea spoke out with mirthful smile, "I would have loved to see your face right now, Ifrit. Too bad you don't have any"

"YOUR SMART MOUTH JUST KEEP RUNNING, FREYJA! YOU MUST HAVE USED SOMETHING TO PREVAIL OVER MY ABILITY!" Ignoring Frea's sarcastic remarks, Ifrit quickly studied Frea's moderate appearance before finally figuring it out, "IT CANNOT BE…YOUR WARDROBE!"

"Yeah? What about it? It's pretty?" Frea really couldn't stop mocking her fellow deity.

"IT'S YOUR OLD BATTLE EQUIPMENTS!" Again, the sarcastic remark didn't interest Ifrit one bit, "I SEE, NOW! THAT MUST BE IT! YOUR EQUIPMENTS ARE WHAT ALLOWED YOU TO UTILIZE YOUR POWER TO FULL EXTENT! I HAVE NO MORE DOUBTS! OTHERWISE DEFEATING YOU WOULD BE EASIER THAN BLINKING AN EYE!"

"So you still got some brains left in your fiery head. That's unfortunate, I was enjoying your confusion" Frea exhaled, much to her disappointment, "But knowing what I'm using to fight you means nothing, Ifrit. That doesn't change anything for you. I'm still going to crush you to bits and there is nothing you can do about it"

"OH, INTERESTING. SO FROM THE VERY FIRST TIME, YOU WERE AFTER MY HEAD. YOU'RE REALLY OUT FOR BLOOD" Being the well known predator he is, it did not take him long to see what it is Frea truly wishes from their fight, "I AM AWARE OF MANY HATRED DIRECTED AT MYSELF. BUT WHAT'S WITH THE SUDDEN CHANGE? NOT THAT I AM COMPLAINING YOU WANTING MY HEAD, BUT CARE TO EXPLAIN? I CAN UNDERSTAND WITH THIS LEVEL OF HOSTILITY IF IT CAME FROM FENRIR, RANDGRIS, OR THAT GUNSLINGER WORM. BUT YOU? WHY TAKE IT PERSONAL?"

"You wouldn't understand the ground of my reasoning even if I spend the rest of my life explaining" Frea put a serious tone this time, indirectly telling Ifrit playtime's over, "Only someone possessing a heart would understand. A heartless creature like you would never"

"AH, REGARDING THE HEART AGAIN. YOU SOUND MORE AND MORE LIKE YOUR WORM FRIENDS. LET ME GUESS, THIS IS A MATTER ABOUT HOW HAVING A STRONG HEART MAKES YOU STRONGER, RIGHT?" Frea didn't respond, but Ifrit knew he didn't hit too far from home, "HOW CLICHED…I WAS EXPECTING A BETTER ANSWER"

"Clichéd or not, it will still bring you down. Your attacks won't work against me"

"DO NOT TAKE ME AS A FOOL, FREYJA! THERE IS NO WAY YOU CAN REPEL ALL MY ATTACKS! HORTUS DELICIARUM!" Accumulating his fire on his left palm, Ifrit shot a huge column of fire blast, plowing the roots surrounding him and Frea thanks to its heat. The soul linker, no less, simply places her hand in the direction of the incoming fire blast, muttering "Kaite" without Ifrit knowing. And just like how it was before; a single touch from Frea was more than enough to redirect Ifrit's very own signature attack and gave him a taste of it, destroying dozens roots behind Ifrit in the process. Of course it won't hurt The Fire God, but at least Frea felt like it taught him a lesson or two. Yet different from his previous reactions, Ifrit could be seen retaining his calmness after the impact has cooled down, likely obtaining something, "REPELLING MY FIRE ATTACKS….AVOIDING MY EARTHQUAKE….VERY IMPRESSIVE INDEED, NOW THAT I FINALLY KNOW HOW YOU PULL YOUR MAGIC"

"Really? Do explain"

"I WILL BE VERY HONEST BY SAYING, I DO NOT KNOW WHAT YOU USED TO APPLY YOUR FEATS, BUT I AM ABLE TO TELL THE CONDITIONS SURROUNDING YOUR USAGE OF THEM" Ifrit spoke with confidence, getting Frea's full attention, "TO FULLY AVOID MY EARTHQUAKES, YOU NEED ME TO EXACT A DIRECT CONTACT; WHEREAS TO REPEL MY MAGIC ATTACKS BACK AT ME, YOU NEED TO DIRECTLY TOUCH THEM WITH ONE OF YOUR PALMS. THAT MEANS, YOU NEED TO AT LEAST LEARN THE EXISTENCE OF MY ATTACKS, CORRECT?"

"Darn it…" Frea cursed under her breath, "I thought I could hide this from him a bit longer, but I guess he's not that big of a fool after all"

"YOU ARE NOT ANSWERING, WHICH MEANS I AM RIGHT" With the only advantage Frea had over it Ifrit gone, the fire creature proceeded without a shadow of doubt, "AND THAT MEANS, I CAN DEFEAT YOU BY USING THIS"

Frea didn't get the word he said, until a sudden explosion occurred from her back and hit her perfectly. "Aaaah!" Frea could feel her back burning as the result, and how painful it was to receive such sudden blast from out of nowhere. She couldn't even begin to deduce what it was that caught her off guard because she didn't feel anything going at her. But the thinking's time over when her vision captured the figure of Ifrit standing right in front of her, ready for a vicious payback. Ifrit violent grabbed Frea's hair with his left arm and elbowed her face with full power using his right arm, dazing the soul linker almost instantly. Still maintaining his grab on her hair, the larger deity leaned his head for a moment and gave Frea a powerful headbutt, this time causing her forehead to bleed due to the gargantuan power of two simultaneous physical attacks. Further weakening Frea, Ifrit pervaded the power of Earthquake to his right hand and hit it to Frea's lower chin via a puissant uppercut, blasting the soul linker upwards and harshly releasing the goddess from Ifrit's grab, losing several strands of her hair in the process. The Earthquake punch was so powerful it trembles the land quite harshly. In the process of going upwards, Frea spurted a fair amount of blood from her mouth, farther exposing her injuries just from several hits. But Ifrit is indeed merciless; he didn't even give her a second to catch her breath as he quickly teleported to right in front of her, mid-air while she's still moving, with the Purgatorio sphere ready in his palm. The Fire God sparked his spell off and a large explosion followed, which Frea received point blank. Frea, covered in flames, dropped rather roughly to one of the Yggdrasil roots, burned all over. She nimbly covered her body with Frost Nova's dust, stopping the fire from roasting her alive. She did a quick check on her status, and it is indeed horrible. Her jaw almost cracked, her head is bleeding badly, and her skin is burnt all over. The injuries she is sustaining showed how powerful Ifrit's few attacks were compared to hers. Even when they could fight on equal ground, even when the table was on her favor, there is still this much difference in their strength and durability. Her brief upperhand apparently made her forgot she is facing one of the worst adversaries in the whole world, a mistake she will not repeat again if she wants to escape this battle in one piece. She rose back to her two feet, looking at Ifrit descending. "THAT PRIDEFUL SMILE IS FINALLY GONE FROM YOUR FACE. I AM PROUD OF MYSELF NOW" The flame creature said jocundly, "NOW THAT YOU ARE OFF YOUR HIGH HORSE, I GUESS YOU CAN TAKE THIS BATTLE MORE SERIOUSLY?"

"There's no need to remind me that!" Frea shouted back in ire, "It's a clever ruse you had in there, getting me from the back. Can't you be anymore gutsy?"

"IS ALL NOT FAIR IN LOVE AND WAR?" Ifrit simply japed at Frea's accusation, "BESIDES, IT WAS MORE LIKE YOU GOT CARELESS, NO? AND THAT IS DESPITE THE FACT YOU HAVE REGAINED YOUR EYESIGHT"

"You? How did you know that?"

"OH, IT WAS SIMPLE TO DEDUCE, REALLY. YOUR EYEBALLS MOVED TO WHEREVER MY ATTACKS CAME FROM JUST NOW. LITTLE THINGS OFTEN SHOWS A LOT, FREYJA" Who said Ifrit's fiery brain isn't working? "I DID REMIND YOU TO NOT TAKE ME AS A FOOL, DID I NOT? "

"I guess, and you shouldn't either"

"WHY SO?"

"Because I know now what you used to attack me from behind" Frea withdrew the entirety of the Frost Nova dusts covering her surroundings, revealing glowing yellow fireflies floating around her, "These are the fireflies you summoned to explode near me, correct?"

"OUTSTANDING, YOUR EYES COULD EVEN REALIZE THEIR PRESENCE?" Ifrit capered at Frea's new discovery, "MEET MY FIREFLIES; DUAT. THEY ARE MINUSCULE IN SIZE, BUT WEALTHY IN POWER. LIKE I HAVE DISCOVERED, THE ONLY MAGIC ATTACK YOU COULD REDIRECT ARE THE ONES YOU CAN TOUCH WITH YOUR HANDS. AND DUAT, NOT ONLY INVISIBLE, ARE RICH IN NUMBERS. YOU CANNOT TOUCH ALL OF THEM AT THE SAME TIME. IT SEEMS I HAVE SEALED WHATEVER IT IS YOU USED TO REPEL MY MAGIC ATTACKS, YES? TO ADD TO IT, YOUR ICE SPELL DOES NOT HAVE ANY DESTRUCTIVE POWER. UNLIKE MY FIRE SPELLS"

Frea is too angry to admit it, but he is right. The fireflies are too small and too much to be handled by her hands one by one. This is a big disfavor for Kaite which really requires a direct contact with the practitioner of the spell. She couldn't actually believe Kaite would have been wilted this quick into the battle. Fire spells are Ifrit's signature and favorite attacks, known mostly for their massive amount of damage. Avoiding being hit by them did her lots of favors, but now those favors seem to have disappeared, which means she has to face those flames head on. She is aware if she ever attempts to use Kaite ever again, Ifrit will just send his Duat to explode behind her to repeat the cycle. The only way to evade the power of the fireflies is by utilizing her physical speed. Frea meshed her sight to Ifrit's eyes, and a thought suddenly dominated her head: she agnized this is all a challenge from Ifrit. A challenge to face him without holding anything back; no more tricks. Ifrit could have easily exploded more Duat but he didn't. It's as if he waited for her to understand his underlying message, to wait until she's ready. Why would he even do that? Beats the hell out of her, but the only reasonable explanation she could come up with is because Ifrit feels like she's worthy to be his adversary, much like how Fenrir waged an equal battle against him in Glast Heim. This is a challenge, one she is going to accept. This is the do or die, no small mistake is allowed to even cross. They know although there is difference in how durable they are, their powers both physically and magically are more or less the same, and that means this battle can virtually end anytime. With the eternal dark sky hanging over their head, both took a stance, understanding each other's will to end the fight. And they stood by like that, without muttering even a single letter.

The unnerving silence went by for several more seconds until Ifrit, after deciding offense is the best defense, took the moment of silence to get closer to his smaller opposition with incredible speed. This must be the signal that the second and the final round has just begun. Ifrit spun and swung his leg around in a semicircular motion, striking with the front of the leg to deliver a strong back kick aimed at Frea's head. Frea countered within seconds before the attack reached her by slightly jumping to the air to level her height with Ifrit's and channeled all her might into her right leg, bringing up her knee and then swiftly turning the hip over and snapping the leg outwards from the knee to deliver a strike with the ball of the foot targeted at Ifrit's mid-section. The two kicked collided and created a major impact, shaking the ground upon the very moment the two legs hit each other. Thanks to the power of each strike, both Ifrit & Frea were sent flying backwards for quite a distance, stopping only after they each hit a root of Yggdrasil. Both quickly came back to their two feet, intending to carry on. Unluckily, Frea is unaware Ifrit already prepared several Duat around her. An explosion fell out all of a sudden; right by Frea's left side. Frea's formed an ice shield completely covering the left side of her body, defending her from the power of Duat she felt not too long ago. This, again, is a trick done by Ifrit to cover his true intention. Coming out right in front of Frea, Ifrit roughly took a hold of Frea's head for the second time today, and viciously kneed her stomach up into the air. "I'M NOT DONE WITH YOU!" Embalming his right first with the power of Earthquake again, Ifrit ascended rapidly and sent a sinewy right hand punch to Frea's lower torso, jerking her away in a great deal to the air. Before she could go a long way, Ifrit teleported above her and kicked her back to the ground. Frea crashed into several roots before finally hitting a big one and stop, but Ifrit's barrage of attack was far from over. The flame creature quickly casted a dozen fire balls before propelling all of them instantly, assailing at Frea's direction and practically detonating everything around the roots. The smokes begin to sail the ship around the roots, but it is quickly evident Frea has not been finished yet. With one swipe of her ice dusts, she cleared the area from the smokes and exposed a larger sized ice shield protecting her. None of the fire balls have hit her. Forming the shield into a giant ice shuriken, Frea retaliated by throwing the ice shuriken at Ifrit. "WHAT IS THIS? THIS IS TOO EASY" Ifrit took a cheap shot as he easily evaded the giant shuriken. But what he didn't expect was the giant shuriken exploded into a vast number of small ice shurikens, too close and too many to be dodged. Ifrit received almost all shurikens in a matter of seconds, paralyzing his movement above the ground, giving Frea a golden chance to attack back. Frea quickly closed her distance with Ifrit in the air and kicked Ifrit's side of the head so hard he was literally pulled to the ground. Ifrit bumped into a tree only to receive more damage from Frea. Quickly appearing before Ifrit completely got back on his two feet, Frea kicked Ifrit's legs simultaneously, causing him to lose balance. What followed was Frea spinning horizontally and launched a roundhouse kick to Ifrit's after swinging the entire length of her leg in semicircular motion . Frea swept Ifrit's ankle from around her back and remained straight, leaving Ifrit a bit above the mid-air. Rising back, Frea executed the same kick and hits Ifrit's belly, sending him higher on the air. To finish her triple roundhouse kick, Frea sprung and smashed Ifrit's face using the same kick in mid-air, sending him face first to the ground.

Obviously not taking this insult calmly, Ifrit flew back to the air and assailed at Frea with incredible speed, slamming his forearm to Frea's neck, propelling Frea a fair distance back. This is for the second time today where Frea felt her head almost got detached from her body. The impact was so massive she gushed out blood from her mouth. Nonetheless, Frea shared the similar feeling with Ifrit, the feeling of not wanting to be defeated. The soul linker recovered her stand and readying ice-imbued warm wind, she drew an Esma on her right hand. Advancing to her place from below, Ifrit fired countless Fire Balls to stop Frea from whatever it is she is planning to do. Frea gambled by throwing her one esma, against many fireballs, and exterminated the entire fire spell, erasing her own magic in the first place as ice dusts began to cover the surrounding. Ifrit took this chance to capitalize the moment with his great speed, flowing through the ice dusts as he progressed with confidence. But that was what Frea aiming for. Since all her ice magic is based on Frost Nova, she had to make a good use of ice dusts should she wish to create any improvisation of her own. Before Ifrit could go pass through the ice dusts, "Storm Gust!", Frea called Storm Gust forth and encased Ifrit with it. The fire creature, who's caught off guard, stopped moving right after turning into a humanoid ice statue. Since it is very obvious maybe this is the only chance for Frea to actually inflict a very massive damage on Ifrit, the soul linker quickly flew a fair distance to above. Once she reached enough height, she stopped and imbued both her legs with ice and created a sharp spear-like rod in them. She cancelled her flight technique and let herself fell to Ifrit's direction, spinning her body as she head legs first to Ifrit, giving the impression of an ice drill. Unfortunately, the ice encasing Ifrit began to crack before Frea could hit him. Ifrit shot a fire ball to free himself from the ice, leaving only pieces of it as he quickly stopped Frea falling from below. Ifrit took this as a challenge and pointed her index finger right at Frea's direction, shooting a powerful stream of flame, "LET'S SEE IF YOU CAN BEAT THIS!". However, for the second time today, Ifrit fell right into Frea's trap. The ice drill dispersed only fifty feet, causing a massive Storm Gust which toppled not only Ifrit's fire stream, but directed at Ifrit again for the second time. The flame creature however, does not want to fall to the same trick twice. He quickly burst out Hortus Deliciarum upwards, eliminating the Storm Gust in a blink of an eye…only for Frea to spot right by his left side and put her right palm on Ifrit's belly, summoning Frost Nova right away, THROWING Ifrit down as well as forming a dozen ices spiked and piercing Ifrit with ice bolts from the inside out!

"FREYJA! YOU!" Having his entire torso filled with his natural enemy, Ifrit's hand jerked around reacting, meaning that injured him quite badly. He slammed his fist into the ground despite not letting out any wail or scream. The attack must have done a massive amount of damage to him. With Ice Bolts still stuck in him, Ifrit shot a fire ball at Frea which the soul linker evaded before going back standing. But unlike before, he is limping now. No matter how strong his flame is, the spell of ice can always inflict something on him. But this time, a direct ice spell from the inside hurt him on another level. Fire has always been weak to ice, and Ifrit is no exception. And there is more to it than just another ice spell, "I finally got you, Ifrit. Your own vanity is going to bring you down".

"WHAT…DO YOU MEAN?" Ifrit, still at his startled state, glanced at Frea with great resentment.

"As you said it, my ice spells do not possess any destructive power. But I can utilize it at will. And being the fire you are, you are weak against ice whether you like it or not. But I guess you never really realized that because you chose to ignore any pain your opponent inflicted on you. That's about your vanity" Frea stopped for awhile, choosing to witness the moment because Ifrit does not seem to quite grasp it, "From the very beginning, I injected ice dusts after ice dusts via any of my ice-based attack that actually hit you. The spikes are all over your body, Ifrit. The damage your body is sustaining if cumulative. Soon, the spikes will grow and cover you completely. This is the end for you, Ifrit"

"DO NOT KID ME, FREYJA! YOU THINK I, THE ALMIGHTY GOD, WILL GO DOWN JUST BECAUSE A BUNCH OF SPIKES? YOU REALLY HAVE UNDERESTIMATED ME TOO MUCH!" Even with all those spikes, Ifrit is still flaming, "EVEN IF WHAT YOU SAY IS THE TRUTH, I AM JUST GOING TO KILL YOU BEFORE YOUR SPIKES KILL ME!"

Frea knew Ifrit is 'this' close to falling down, and she will be damned if she cannot capitalize this chance to obtain a victory over the feared fire god. As it has been said before, in a battle between equals, one mistake could prove fatal and now Ifrit is paying the price of his carelessness. However, Ifrit does not show any indication on giving up despite having internal injuries. With lightening speed, Ifrit threw a massive clothesline at Frea's neck, sending her up to the air. "Aaaaah!" Frea felt like her neck has been snapped by that one attack, "Unbelievable! He's bearing excessive injuries but he could still be this much powerful?". Ifrit followed and grabbed Frea by her shoulder and flied down before smashing her back to the ground, maintaining his grapple on her. Violently, Ifrit dragged Frea through the ground in circle before throwing her into one of the roots. Frea received injuries on her back after landing into the root, she could feel her spine exploding. She tried to get back to attack but to no avail, Ifrit bested him to it. The larger deity kicked her even deeper to the root, entrapping her inside. Apparently Ifrit didn't take Frea's warning that he's going to die very soon very tranquilly. Ifrit put her left arm around Frea's neck and started to suffocate her, "DIE!". Using his other arm, Ifrit took a stance and smashed Frea at her stomach using Earthquake, destroying the roots into shreds and trembling the whole ground. It nearly propelled the soul linker hadn't Ifrit kept her neck in his hand. "Ukh!" A fair amount of blood made their way out of Frea's lips. This is worse than a torture. She had no idea the threat of dying could enrage Ifrit to this point. And at this distance, there is no way she can use Kaupe which makes the situation even more unfavorable for her. But she isn't some helpless doll that's just going to standby as someone murders her. Before Ifrit could repeat the tyrannical Earthquake, Frea grab's Ifrit's left wrist and cast Frost Nova in it. Ifrit was forced to release his fingers off her as the result. Frea wasted no momentum on attacking back. She gathered all the power she could muster into her left leg and delivered a vertical kick by lifting her leg 180 degrees with full force at Ifrit's lower jaw, nearly knocking him off balance. Hoping for the best, the soul linker channeled her magical Warm Wind into the element of wind and crafted an Esma, this time in the form of a cluster of electricity much like Jupitel Thunder. Frea must have wanted to damage Ifrit via the ice spikes sticking out of him. Before Ifrit could prevent Frea from attacking, Frea stroke his body with point-blank wind based Esma, hitting him with a destructive lightning blast which shocks him all over. Ifrit wished to retaliate but quickly find himself immobile; the lightning attack must have paralyzed him thanks to him having conduits in the form of ice spikes all over. If she could, Frea would have continued with the lightning attack but she needs to safe some spell power for her grand finale which means another Esma is out of the question. But Ifrit wouldn't be called a god if he does not at least try to the end. Showing what could be his last resort; Ifrit employed the close distance between him and his opposition and grabbed Frea's neck with full power, holding her to the ground. Frea could feel his hand which is keeping her down begin to glow, signaling Ifrit is going to blast a Purgatorio, which he did. "YOU'RE DONE, FREYJA!" A huge and round fire blast engulfed both Ifrit and Frea as more and more roots of Yggdrasil wither to ashes after receiving the wrath of the fire god. The current Purgatorio is so strong it blasted the terrain away as well. The remains of the ground are flying all over the air. Smokes covered the area in seconds, darkening it to a massive extent where bare eyes would have a hard time adjusting. Amidst the dark smog, the glow from Ifrit body is starting to be visible. The last Purgatorio left nothing but rubbles here and there, but there's no sign of Frea. Normally, a point blank Purgatorio would have sufficed to send anyone into oblivion, but with what she has shown today, Frea may very well be the only exception. Ifrit's blood red eyes searched everywhere he could, trying to catch the presence of his smaller opponent. Whether or not Frea survived will be shed light in a second, and unfortunately for Ifrit, Frea did make it out alive, unaffected from the powerful blast; merely showing her physical injuries because of Ifrit short rush attack earlier. "WHAT? MY PURGATORIO DID NOT ERADICATE YOU?", Ifrit cannot even begin to fathom how escaping a direct impact is possible, let alone evading it uninjured. Frea simply waved her hand, circuitously reminding Ifrit of her earlier trademark.

"YOU…REPELLED PURGATORIO BACK AT ME?"

"Yes, and it seems having to carry that much internal injuries didn't help your concentration, eh? You even forgot I could redirect anything within my direct contact. You grabbed me in the throat so all I had to do was grabbing your wrist before Purgatorio exploded. The rest of it, I guess you could do the math" Frea stretched her right arm upward as limitless amount of Frost Nova dusts begun to gather there, "Let's end this, Ifrit. Once and for all"

"ALRIGHT! PREPARE YOURSELF FOR…" Ifrit was cut short when he felt something is moving inside him, something painful. And he couldn't be wrong. Before he could do anything, another ice spike comes out from inside his left kneecap, followed by another three more spikes in his right arm. Four more pierced from his inside on his collar before another five filled his right legs. The last one came out from his neck, making him a humanoid pile of ice spikes. "THIS…" Ifrit let out a word so difficultly, "THIS…IS…"

"Well, I did say the ice were growing inside you. It took a fair amount of time, but it's worth it now. I saved your head so you could still listen to what I have to say. So in your final moment, you will regret every deed you have done while you were alive"

The Frost Nova dusts in Frea's hand centered in a large number after Frea amassed it to focus on one point in her palm, creating a gigantic ice sphere she wields serenely, "Remember this? You fought against it once in Glast Heim. I borrowed this from Fenrir, this is his much beloved Sub-Zero Cannon. His ultimate technique; he used this to topple Amon Ra back there in Endless Tower. It covers everything it hits in ice before disintegrating it into ice dusts. I witnessed it firsthand how Amon Ra was shredded into pieces after receiving this directly from Fenrir. Now, what do you think will happen once it hits you, Ifrit?"

It is of course, a rhetorical question. Ifrit said nothing, not because he couldn't say anything back but because he knows he does not need to. Frea had hoped Ifrit would say something so she can reply it with something smart. Ifrit deserves more mockery after everything he did, but he preferred to shut his mouth. "So you finally manage to keep your mouth shut. Good" Frea continued while keep making her way at the paralyzed and soundless fire god, pausing only a foot away from him.

Moving to her finale, Frea hurled The Sub-Zero Cannon at Ifrit in point blank range. The blue sphere touched Ifrit and dispersed straightaway. The cannon covered every inch of Ifrit in frozen solid ice, as well as everything that stand near him. Ifrit took one final look at Frea before he turned into one giant piece of humanoid ice statue. Frea could swear she felt something from Ifrit when he glanced at her, but she couldn't quite put her finger to it. When the ice finally stopped forming, from head to toe Ifrit has turned into ice god. But of course Frea knew he hasn't been completely put away, "Are you still there?"

"….MISS…ME…ALREADY?" Ifrit could be heard from inside the statue, all the calmness in him, "WHAT…IS GOING TO…HAPPEN NEXT?"

Bit by bit, you will turn into ice dusts" Frea spared no mercy explaining the torment waiting the once fire god, "And then you will die"

"…DO…YOU…REALLY BELIEVE THAT?" Ifrit asked back, not hiding anything, as his fingers began to dissolve into ice dusts, "THAT…I…WILL…DIE?"

"I have not the faintest doubt" Frea straightly responded, locking her eyes to Ifrit whose legs started to discompose to blue glittering dusts just like his fingers, "It's rather ironic, you are always the first one to brag about how credible you are, but you are the first one to fall. But I'm glad it's going that way. Defeating you is like winning the whole war, because now, Sagramore won't have to deal with your immortal army. The victory is ours"

"SUCH…SIMPLICITY…IN THINKING…" Ifrit tittered at that thought when his torso began turning into ice dusts, "DO YOU REALLY…THINK…DEFEATING ME…IS THE END…FOR VALDOMIR? YOU…ARE…VERY VERY…WRONG, FREYJA. YOU….HAVE NOT SEEN….ANYTHING YET…"

"Kepp talking, Ifrit. I shall humor you by listening" Frea justifiably showed no compassion for Ifrit, who didn't deserve any to begin with.

"THIS WAR…IS NOT OVER…YET…." The ice dusts dissolving progress finally reached Ifrit's neck, "OUR BATTLE….IS NOT OVER….YET"

"In denial to the end, a display of such a weak heart. That's why you couldn't win against me" Frea closed her eyes and turned her back, the dusts began dancing as the wind came across behind her, "Goodbye, Ifrit"

That was Frea's final words to Ifrit as his head completely turned to ice dusts. Ifrit is gone, fully. No more. Frea couldn't sense his soul presence anymore. And only then, she started losing balance. She fell back first to the ground, soundlessly. The pain and injuries she received during her fight with Ifrit finally accumulated and took her in one blow. Her body hurts all over and she finds it hard to even rise back. But she didn't wail, she didn't even flinch. Because there is a great joy she is feeling right now. The joy of being victorious after such hardship. A smile covered her face almost instantly, "I did it…I really did it" She told herself in disbelief, normal after such great victory. "Elraven…Ifrit is gone, he cannot hurt you anymore" And to whom she just rediscovered an old feeling, she sent her love. "I have done it. I finally proved my worth" She resumed; the sensation of finally contributing something must have lifted off the world from her shoulders. Her old power has allowed her to give something to her side in this battle, something she hasn't been able to do for a very very long time. She couldn't do it in the past, not for Odin & Loki, and again not for anyone in Rachel. But it's different now, she did it for Sagramore and most of all, for herself. Now, she can go back home proudly, rejoining her new friends with great plume. She put both her arms on her belly, taking a deserved rest, still lying on her back. The smile is still there on her face. All this was so unbelievable for her. She couldn't wait to tell Fenrir and look at his jealous reaction. She couldn't wait to tell Sarkhan and behold him being surprised. And she cannot wait to tell Fiorentin that she's back and she's going to claim what's hers. Lastly, she cannot wait to meet Elraven again. They came to this place hoping to acquire great help but they achieved more. And it was her that made it happen. She felt great relief and gigantic mirth. Words cannot express how grateful she is at this moment. Under the sky of eternal darkness, in a place once the gods refer to as heaven, she achieved something majestic. She stayed in calmness, having all the time she wants for herself.

Several minutes has passed; Frea turned her attention far above, sensing three soul presence, meaning the battle between Randgris & Elraven against Satan Morroc is not over yet. "Right, I have to go up there. Our mission isn't over yet" Saying that, she gathered her power and flew to the top, leaving the destroyed terrain below her until nothing beneath her is visible anymore.

Without her noticing, from the point where Ifrit turned to ice dusts, a flicker of flame lighted up…

0000

The Super Dredger Cannon had caused a massive explosion upon its release. The shockwave wrapped around the entire land of the top of Yggdrasil in a heartbeat. Randgris & Elraven received the gargantuan shockwave directly without having any defensive measure. The force of the shockwave was enough to pull out almost every tree in the top of Yggdrasil as well as completely shattering the shrine in the middle of it to pieces of bricks. The sphere encompassed the entire region and left not even an inch of the wooden floors from cracks. After the giant sphere did its craft, the once holy land is now just rubbles here and there with two bodies lying flat and one body standing tall. This is a flawless victory for the demon.

"Disappointing…" Albert Gahn began to voice out his comments on his easy victory, "I was expecting more of a challenge, but I guess being the strongest of the demons also mean very few and very little numbers can actually give me a run for my money"

"Hey, sorry for letting you down, Gahn. But don't say I didn't tell you…you got the wrong Oath Keeper guy" Elraven was the first to slowly rise back, firmly sitting on the ground. Thast was the most he could push due to his temporary paralyzed status. Randgris was still unconscious thanks to the shockwave earlier. I guess that's why having The Spell of Dionysus comes in handy at a time like this, "Now that you know we're no match for you, why don't you just let us go for old time's sake, okay, pal?"

"Keep spewing out jokes, Sinclair. While you can"

"Sure, Gahn. I'm good with jokes"

Gahn moved in a blinding speed when he reached Elraven in no time and grabbed his throat with one hand, slowly lifting him from the ground by the neck so they can take a better look at each other, "Look at my eyes, Sinclair! What do you see?"

"I…saw…" Elraven obviously had a difficult breathing. Even after he grabbed Gahn's wrist with both his hands, Gahn's stranglehold isn't losing any power, "You…wore too much mascara for this afternoon…"

Furious, the demon put more strength to his grab. Blood were slowly making their way out from Elraven's lips when he felt he is truly losing out air, "Very funny, Sinclair. But I don't see you laughing. What's the matter? I thought you said you were good with jokes?"

"Let him go!" All of a sudden, a blue colored Esma flew at Gahn from the air. The demon threw Elraven away and dodged, causing the Esma to miss and go somewhere far. Needless to say, Frea's here. The soul linker utilized her prowess on making the best out of Frost Nova and enchanted a Frost Driver at the demon. "Black Thorn" Countering her movement, Gahn created long, sharp, and pointed black crystals coming out from the ground, like a darker and bigger version of Frost Driver, and targeted them at Frea's Frost Driver. The spikes met halfway and stopped each other, signaling a time out for both sides.

"Frea!" Elraven was the first to notice her presence, a wide smile on his facial feature, "You're here! That means, Ifrit is…"

"That's right, El. Ifrit's gone forever" The exclamation awoke even Randgris, "I've defeated him"

"Ifrit? Defeated?" Randgris beat Gahn on expressing her feelings, "Is...that true? You really took him out?"

"For good, Randgris. Now that creep can never hurt anyone ever again" The soul linker is still on her momentous joy after her grand victory, but of course she didn't forget their main cuisine for tonight, "What about The Orb of Edda? Did we get it?"

"It's ours, Frea. It's in Sarkhan's hand now" Elraven also expressed his mirth on the news, it's already unbelievable as it is.

"Job well done, guys" Frea threw a praise, but did not forget to voice her concern, "But why are you still here, then?"

"Randgris used hers to remove an obstacle Gahn presented us with. I cannot leave her alone" Elraven didn't have to do much explanation. Frea already understood El must have decided to support Randgris by trying to survive the wrath of Satan Morroc. She also knew no one forced Randgris to do so. Her conscience was clear. Quickly, she reached to her pocket and threw her special butterfly wings at Randgris, who caught it, "Hold on to it for now, Randgris. We cannot afford having that one destroyed"

"I seem to be the only one not understanding the situation here. Care to share?" Gahn reminded everyone with his black humor that he is still around.

"None of your business" Quickly, Frea located her sight at Albert Gahn, who didn't seem to think much of her response, "Now it's your turn to die, Morroc!"

"Oh, I beg to differ, Freyja" Gahn simply shot down Frea's spirit, "Your two friends here couldn't even scratch me. And you're too injured to fight me"

"No, I can defeat you with one hit if I wish to" The soul linker firmly held her vote of confidence for herself right there, "I am not too weak for anyone, Morroc. Don't get sassy with me"

"I'm not getting sassy with anyone, I was merely telling the truth" Apparently, Gahn also got a vote for confidence for himself, "Besides, are you sure Ifrit is dead?"

"He vanished into dusts after receiving my coup de grace. He's gone. I can no longer feel his soul presence" There wasn't the slightest hint of doubt in Frea's reply, "No one can"

"Won't it be lovely to possess your optimism? I'm sorry to upset you but I must say…no, Ifrit isn't dead" Now this is what you call a shocking news, "He's still alive"

"Quit joking, Morroc. It won't do you any good"

"Do I look like I'm joking, Freyja?" Albert Gahn grinned much to Frea's annoyance, "Apparently, being a deity yourself, you forgot something important"

"Really? What is it?"

"The Crescendo State" The greater demon reminded everyone of a horrible truth, "Every deity possesses it, and every deity has their own unique way to channel it. You, for example, accessed it by equipping your old battle clothing, in which you are wearing right now, meaning you have been in your Crescendo State ever since stepping on the Odin's Temple. As for Ifrit…he has another way to access his Crescendo State"

Frea gulped, as much as Elraven & Randgris are silenced. "Near-death experience" The truth finally reveals itself, "That's what Ifrit needs"

Ever so suddenly, from the northern point of the top of Yggdrasil, a giant pillar of red hot scorching flame pierces to the dark sky from down below, startling and catching everyone's attention but Gahn, who stood with a huge smile on his face as he muttered to himself, "This is it". The same pillar followed from the western point, then the southern and the eastern, completely covering all four sides of Yggdrasil.

"It…it cannot be…" Frea said in dismay as she felt a colossal presence from far beneath the Yggdrasil.

"This presence…even I can feel it…" Elraven told Frea & Randgris with eyes as wide as a field, "What…existence!"

"A presence that can be felt by even a normal human…" Randgris joined the other two on mentioning her disbelief, "Is…there even such a thing?"

"You better believe, valkyrie" Gahn answered Randgris' question when something progressed.

With blinding speed, the colossal presence ascended from the bottom of Yggdrasil. The three members of the alliance were amazed by the rate of it ascending. The presence grew closer and closer, when it neared the top a quick shadow of a figure could only briefly caught by their eyes thanks to its otherworldly speed. The figure stopped atop of the upper berth of Yggdrasil and landed on the stage with his weight all focused on his two feet. The sheer impact was so shocking, the weight of the figure was enough to tremble the entire berth as rubbles flew around his surroundings. When the upper berth calms down after the initial landing, the three members of the alliance can finally behold their newest foe. The figure, ten times the size of a normal human, appears as a towering behemoth and extremely muscular humanoid resembling the physical trait of a lava golem with body made of infinitely solid granite rocks and glowing lava stream as his blood, visible from the outside from his head to his toe. As he stood strong, the lava burns some of the ground he was standing on, inch by inch. Two large, fleshy horns emerge from the top of his head, giving him the appearance of a demon. Long red spikes protrude from his shoulders, elbows, back, and knees complete with lavas coming out of them. His eye sockets are filled with nothing but glowing flames lacking of irises and eyeballs, giving him a maniacal look. As opposed to his original appearance, he is accompanied with a mouth of his own. The mouth on his face, however, is completely made of cracks seen mostly in rocks. His arms are those of puissant builds, with lava decorating almost every inch of them, making his limbs don the character of shaped magmas. And his legs pillar his enormous stature perfectly. He easily dwarves the spectators; shadowing his three opponents. He could gaze into the darkest of the abyss without losing a glow of light. He would tremble the earth wherever he steps. The heat from his intimidating figure rivals even the corona. His mere presence could strike fear into the heart of his every opponent. This is the Crescendo State of The Fire God of Rune Midgard: Ifrit, Erebus Form.

Just by looking at him, Frea, Randgris, and Elraven knew they are in a deep trouble. His presence alone is more than enough to make the statement that they are no match for him. At least not with how they are now. Elraven began to sweat thanks to the unmatched heat Ifrit's body is producing; he cannot believe he will actually see someone that can intimidate his spirit. "I'm…actually shivering…" Elraven silently admitted to himself, "So…a God can be this powerful?"

"Ifrit…" Frea still cannot believe the sight her eyes presented her with, "It's really…you…"

"Such…gap…" Randgris was the last one to share her worry.

The only one with a smile on the premise if Albert Gahn, who jokingly told Ifrit, "You shouldn't have taken so long, Ifrit. I was wondering when you would show up, you know?"

But Ifrit seemed to have lost his humor, as he did not bother to answer or even look at Gahn. Not answering with his words, Ifrit disappeared from their sight in a blink of an eye. With his right arm ready to throw a straight punch, he showed up in front of the unguarded Randgris, still recovering from her shock of seeing the new form of the deity.

"Randgris, watch out!" Frea yelled at valkyrie who was caught off guard, but it was too late.

"TECTONIC HAMMER" In one swift motion, Ifrit punched Randgris' head and brought her down to the ground with one single punch. But it does not stop there. When Randgris's head, and eventually all of her, was powerfully jerked to the ground, the power of the attack penetrates her and hit the floor of the upper berth. In an instant, the middle of the upper berth cracked, causing the terrain to tingle as far as any bare eyes could look.

"The ground, the ground is tingling!" Elraven flew to the air followed by Frea and Albert Gahn. The terrain of the upper berth virtually ran amok before severing into pieces, "Unbelievable! He destroyed the top of Yggdrasil with one punch? One single punch?"

Having lost her consciousness, Randgris was unable to save herself. When the piece of the floor where her body lies moved, her body was slowly dragged down by gravity before finally falling into a fissure, right to the bottom of the tallest tree in the whole world.

"Randgris! Randgris!" Elraven shouted for her name but his effort was futile. He and Frea could only watch as the upper berth of the mythical tree crumbled alongside their companion. But Elraven refused to surrender just now, "Frea, I'm going to save her!"

"No, Elraven, look out!" Frea's warning was luckily heard by the gunslinger who quickly spot the flame behemoth appearing in front of him. His size is so big it consumed Elraven's whole vision.

"Damn!" Elraven tried to point his HAVOX at Ifrit, but he was outclassed and outmaneuvered. Ifrit pushed his right arm so the palm of it faced against Elraven, and summoned his attack in less than a second. Ifrit's palm glows bright red as the lava streaming all over his body is accumulated on it. Ifrit charged the energy of his attack, drastically increasing its strength. Combining the power of the flame and lava, Ifrit fired, "100.000.000°C, VOLCANIC CANNON"

A mammoth volcanic column, merging the element of fire and lava, emanated from Ifrit's summoning hand, blasting its way through Elraven as well as engulfing a proportion of the sky with an unforgiving flame. The energy beam was so devastating; Elraven didn't even have the chance to flinch or scream and was destroyed into nothingness upon receiving it point blank. The glowing light it produces shine so brightly even Frea & Gahn had to cover their eyes if they didn't want to look directly at what may very well be the closest thing to the sun. The devastating cannon penetrates the sky and shatters its darkness, giving it a heated feel of fires as it leaves a giant scarlet whole amidst the clouds. The merciless flame didn't even spare a shred of Elraven's flesh, leaving out only the roasted HAVOX which fell to the bottom of Yggdrasil on its wake, following the earlier fate of Randgris.

Slowly opening her eyes again, Frea quickly noticed the disappearance of Elraven, "Elraven? Elraven, where are you?"

"GONE" Ifrit finally filled in a conversation; his voice resounding in the air as his head turn at Frea; the cracks on his mouth move like they mimic the movement of a normal lips, "TEMPORARILY, BUT GONE"

"Temporarily? Does he mean it's because of The Spell of Dionysus? Amazing, there was no such thing as an attack that destroyed someone into nothingness before, even the instant regeneration spell Elraven possessed is being forced to give it all out! And…to top it all of…he defeated both Elraven & Randgris with one attack each?" Knowing at least El is safe, Frea returned back to Ifrit, "You…I did not know such power lies dormant inside you…"

"THINK OF IT THIS WAY, FREYJA, HOW DID YOU THINK I WAS ABLE TO SURVIVE BEING ATTACKED BY THOUSANDS OF FROST GIANTS, WHO HELD THE POWER WHICH WEAKEN MINE, DURING RAGNAROK?" Ifrit finally opened the secret to his survival during the war of the gods which ended the world previously, "HOW DID YOU THINK I WAS ABLE TO OBLITERATE 300,000 PRONTERA SOLDIERS AS WELL AS DESTROYING THE ENTIRE MJOLLNIR MOUNTAIN SIX YEARS AGO ALL BY MYSELF?"

"You…you have used this form twice before?"

"WHICH MAKES YOU THE THIRD PARTY THAT FORCED ME TO DO SO, ALONE NO LESS. AND FOR THAT, I CONGRATULATE YOU" Can you smell the sarcasm around the air? "IN THIS FORM, I AM A THOUSAND TIMES STRONGER THAN I ORIGINALLY AM. YOU ARE NO MATCH FOR MY POWER, FREYJA"

"The last time you said jeered at me, you ended up frozen solid" A noteworthy claim to fame, but who knows how long it might last.

"A MISTAKE I INTEND TO ERASE" Here comes the challenge, "I WILL ALLOW YOU TO HIT ME ONE MORE TIME WITH YOUR SUB-ZERO CANNON"

"I beg your pardon?"

"YOU HEARD ME RIGHT, FREYJA. YOU CAN HIT ME WITH THAT PROUD TECHNIQUE YOU BORROWED FROM FENRIR. I WILL NOT EVADE IT. I WILL NOT EVEN MOVE AN INCH. I WILL TAKE ALL OF IT. LET'S SEE IF YOU CAN GET RID OF ME FOR GOOD NOW" This is really an offer Frea cannot refuse.

Frea gulped despite being given such advantage. Deep down, she knew Ifrit was right. At their current condition, Ifrit is obviously above her league. She has been worn down after their fight and is still injured, where Ifrit recuperated and returned without a scratch. If the battle continues longer than it already has, chances are she will be hammered to bits.

"Were I you, I would take his challenge, Freyja" The only spectator still floating, Gahn, taunted Frea to seal the deal, "This might be your last and only chance to win this fight"

"…fine" Frea didn't let her two adversaries keep getting the better of her and spoke out, "Just do me a favor and don't whine if you turn into ice block again"

"HEHEHE…" Ifrit simply laughed at that possibility, "INTRIGUING"

Frea reassembled the blue sphere and raised it above her head, allowing both Gahn and Ifrit to take a good look at it. This is the technique that defeated Ifrit in his normal form, and Frea is going to use to do so one more time. "This is what you want, Ifrit! Sub-Zero Cannon!" The soul linker sped up to the still fire god, whose cracks in his face form a smile. Frea reached to Ifrit's location and, hoping for the best, slammed the blue sphere at the gigantic god. A blue light shines from the sphere, covering all three present. Frea could feel the spell working…until it turns red and surprises her, "W, what?"

The blue sphere, turning into the color of fire, quickly transforms into a ball of fire before dissolving into the air, leaving nothing of it.

"N…no…" Frea uttered to herself; her very last chance to gain a victory against The Embodiment of Hell just vanished.

"THE HEAT I POSSESS FAR OUTWEIGH THE COLD YOUR CANNON HAD" Ifrit gave Frea the simplest explanation possible, much to her dismay, "I TAKE IT MY MISTAKE IS HISTORY NOW?"

Frea didn't even realize Ifrit had prepared to counter until he did so. Enchanting a giant red sphere on his left palm, three times the size of his normal Purgatorio, Ifrit hurled it at Frea's direction with a victorious smile, "100.000.000°C, BETELGEUSE"

Frea quickly deduced the vast sphere is going to explode, so she stretched out her right arm and with the remaining energy she had left, trying to repel it back, "Kaite!"

Much to her chagrin, the sphere stopped right before touching the tip of her finger.

"I WILL FILL YOU IN ON A SECRET I JUST REALIZED NOW" Ifrit made sure Frea listen to him, maybe for the last time, "WHENEVER YOU HAVE TO REPEL PURGATORIO BACK, YOU HAD TO DIRECTLY TOUCH IT TO PREVENT ITS POWER TO REACH YOU. WELL, BETELGEUSE IS DIFFERENT. IT IS AN ACCUMULATED EXPLOSION, SOMETHING YOU CANNOT TOUCH ENTIRELY"

And Ifrit proved his words to be true. The Betelgeuse sphere exploded and spread to all direction. Frea was unable to grasp the entirety of the explosion, just like what Ifrit had said. The energy sphere engulfed the sky of Asgard one more time, further erasing the clouds from the crepuscular night before its power reached to Yggdrasil, painting every inch of what left of its top with fire and lava, this time consuming Frea in it as an extremely eartshaking sound followed its devastating impact…

0000

Elraven slowly opened his eyes, heavy as they are, and studied his surrounding when his sight finally allows it. "The roots of Yggdrasil…" He quickly reckoned his current location, "Ifrit's Volcanic Cannon must have destroyed me and sent me back here…"

The gunslinger slowly rose and took a seat, painfully, because his body is still aching despite having been regenerated by his dependable spell. HAVOX is visible not far from him. And it's roasted, so definitely in no condition to perform. His glasses are broken, so the seal's off. Too bad he can't use his power right now due to the time. And he also found out his gunslinger's Ropera robe is the only thing missing from his clothing. His shoes, pants, and bulletproof shirt he used for protection underneath his robe is still intact, torn here and there, but intact, "Well, the robe's a goner now. Volcanic Cannon must have left not even a string of it. At least my physical dignity is preserved"

"So, you really survived. That's magnificent" Elraven's attention is robbed by the coming of someone he must not like, especially at times like this, "To think you can retain the power of Dionysus to this extent"

"You know what would be good right now, Gahn?" Elraven also retained his humor other than his regeneration power, "Not having you around"

"Oh, wouldn't you love that?" Luckily, Gahn was also in a good mood so Elraven didn't get chocked like earlier.

"I would, of course I would" And with that, the gunslinger knew playtime's over, "Okay, cut the bull, pal. You're here, it means something happened up there while I was out. Where is Frea?"

"Where do you think?" The demon wouldn't even give a provable clemency for his opposition.

And that can only mean one thing: Frea lost the battle. Elraven is insensitive, but not a moron. He knew the tacit massage the demon just relied to him. But his focus is thwarted again when a brobdingnagian voice reverberate from his back, "SUCH PATHETIC WORM. CONCERNING ANOTHER WEAKLING; NOT EVEN REALIZING HOW CLOSE HE IS TO DEATH"

As if a moving building just greeted him, Elraven turned his head over his shoulder, perceiving the mammoth looking down at him, "Ifrit!"

"IF YOU HAVE THE SLIGHTEST PIECE OF BRAIN IN YOU, YOU WILL NOT BOTHER TO RETALIATE" The fire god threatened before Elraven could do something reckless, "YOU EXPERIENCED IT FIRSTHAND HOW EASY IT IS FOR ME TO KILL YOU. AND TRUST ME, I CAN DO IT MANY TIMES UNTIL YOUR REGENERATION SPELL RUNS OUT OF ITS EFFECT"

Elraven fully comprehended Ifrit's meaning, and he chose not do anything useless for the time being, "Coming down here only to talk to me, this must be important"

"ONLY TO SEE YOUR PITEOUS FACE ONE LAST TIME" That doesn't sound pretty, "ALL YOUR BIG TALK ABOUT TAKING ME DOWN, AND LOOK WHERE YOU ARE NOW, WORM. YOU'RE NOT EVEN WORTH KILLING. IF I AM NOT THAT MUCH DISGUSTED OF YOUR RASHNESS, I WOULD HAVE LEFT YOU ALONE TO DIE A HAPLESS DEATH. BUT I HAVE DECIDED TO TEACH YOU A LESSON FOR TALKING BACK TO ME, A GOD"

"Oh, dear, I hope it's an easy lesson" Resilient to the end; that's El for you, "I'm in need of some A's. My grades aren't that good, if you know what I mean"

"CONTEMPTIBLE RESPONSE TO THE END, SUCH DESPERATE FEAT. ADEQUATE FOR A WORM" Ifrit didn't reply with many words, he just showed Elraven what he is going to do, "LOOK UP"

The gunslinger slowly moved his eyes to the sky high above the ground, watching as the event is happening.

"AND BEHOLD"

Elraven watched carefully as the four fire pillars Ifrit created earlier, the ones which overtopped even Yggdrasil, cumulate in the sky, dispersing the clouds as they did so. The pillars mould into an insanely goliath sized flame sphere, resembling the sun. It's a completely perfect sphere, containing a voluminous output of energy in it. The more El's vision looked deeper into it, the redder the color of the sphere. The reddest one, the core, must be the hottest part of the sphere, as well as the one housing the most plethoric of its destructive power. The rest of the sphere is heated by energy that is transferred outward from the core and the layers just outside. To top if off, it outshines the abyss of the eternal night, making the place bright like during the day.

"What…is that?" Elraven is amazed by the size of the sphere, only managing to maunder his words out.

"TARTARUS END" And there comes the answer, "MY ULTIMATE TECHNIQUE. THE STRONGEST SPELL I HAVE EVER INVENTED DURING MY LIFETIME. ITS HEAT SURPASS EVEN 100.000.000°C. THE LAST TIME I UNLEASH ITS POWER, TARTARUS END EXTINGUISHED 300,000 PRONTERA SOLDIERS AND THE ENTIRE MJOLLNIR MOUNTAIN! KING TRISTAN NEVER KNEW WHAT MADE HIM LOSE MORE THAN HALF HIS SOLDIERS EVEN TO THE VERY END!"

"So, that's…what Alexandria told me once…" The shocked gunslinger mussitate to himself, recalling Fiorentin's story about how in the start of the war 6 years ago, Prontera suffered a major loss because of a rather mysterious cause. Now, everything is clear.

"TARTARUS END HAS THE POWER TO EVEN OBLITERATE THE WHOLE CONTINENT! AND RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW, I AM GOING TO USE IT TO DEMOLISH…ASGARD"

"You…you are going to destroy the whole world?" Guess what, there isn't a smile anymore in El's face, "That's insane!"

"AS I HAVE PROVED FREYJA WRONG, I WILL ALSO PROVE YOU WRONG" The Fire God of Rune Midgard didn't even spare Elraven a piece of pity, "TARTARUS END WILL EXPLODE IN TEN MINUTES. IN THE REMAINING TIME, LET'S SEE IF YOU CAN GET AWAY FROM IT THIS TIME"

"Heh, you forgot I still have Dionysus. Any wounds will be healed in an instant" That's El's last trump card.

"PERHAPS, BUT I WONDER WHERE YOU ARE GOING TO HEAL YOURSELF SHOULD THE WHOLE WORLD VANISH?" A frightening doubt is put by Ifrit to El, "YOU CANNOT TAKE THAT CHANCE, CAN YOU?"

"Ukh…" El is owned, again. It's true, without an actual space to allow his cells regenerating, death is very likely.

"YOU SHOULD HAVE SEEN YOUR FACE JUST NOW" And of course the behemoth found this amusing, "IT IS BEYOND PRICELESS! HAHAHA!"

"But…you…are giving me a chance to escape?" Elraven frowned; this cannot be kindness, "W…why?"

"SO THAT YOU WILL NEVER FORGET…" Told you it's not kindness, "IF YOU MANAGE TO ESCAPE, YOU WILL NEVER FORGET THAT YOU LIVE ONLY BECAUSE MY PITY. THAT IS THE FACT THAT WILL EAT YOU ALIVE NO MATTER WHAT!"

"Ugh..." Now that Elraven realized what Ifrit just said, he will get hurt no matter what. He's at loss words.

"AND IF YOU CANNOT MAKE IT OUT, YOUR LIFE ENDS IN MY HANDS, WHOM YOU DESPISE SO MUCH!" Ifrit just took cruelty to a whole new level, "EITHER WAY, IT MUST BE UNPLEASANT TO BE IN YOUR POSITION RIGHT NOW! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! HOW PITIFUL YOU ARE, WORM! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

"You…bastard!" Elraven cursed at Ifrit, which the God ignored.

The gunslinger could only watch as Ifrit slowly ascended to the sky, "LET'S SEE HOW FATE DECIDES THE OUTCOME OF THIS GAME! WE WILL SEE IF THE KEY FIGURE OF THE ALLIANCE BETWEEN SAGRAMORE & EINBROCH CAN ESCAPE HELL! HAHAHAHAHA!"

Ifrit's maniacal laugh ringed throughout the sky, his titanic figure cannot be seen any longer due to the difference of height.

"It's interesting to see what you will do, Sinclair" Elraven is reminded that Albert Gahn is still standing not far from him, "This is the real test for you"

"Gahn, you?" The dark haired man wanted to say something, but he couldn't. He is confused, scared, and angry at the same time. Fabricating smart replies would not be his forte at the moment.

"I wish for you the best, Sinclair" Gahn also acceded, following his companion to the sky, "If we can meet again, let's have a fair fight that will not disappoint me, alright? If not, then, what a pity. You will die bringing your overrated legend to your grave"

"To hell with that they think!" Elraven imprecated his foes' thought. It's not his priority right now, "I'll be taking Frea & Randgris out of here. Randgris cannot be too far away from Yggdrasil, she fell right to the bottom of it!"

After grabbing his HAVOX, Elraven moved his feet and went to his predicted area of where Randgris might have landed, and he was lucky. He quickly spot Randgris lying in one of the roots, bruised and battered. "Randgris! Randgris!" Elraven came to her rescue, supporting her with his two hands, "Open your eyes! It's me!"

"El…raven?" And in all fairness, it's good to know Randgris is alive.

"Oh, thank God you're alive! I was really worried!" Elraven concluded his gratefulness by moving on to a much darker subject, "Listen, we have to get out of here! You see the sphere in the sky? It's Tartarus End, Ifrit's strongest spell! He warned me it can destroy this whole place! I will get you out of here, alright?"

"…how? Ifrit broke my…back….I don' think I can stand…"

"Don't worry! I'll use my butterfly wings to get you out, then I'll get Frea!" The gunslinger reached to his pocket, wanting to grab the special butterfly wings…only to find there is nothing inside his pocket but crystal dusts, "W, what? What is this?"

"The wings…have been destroyed…" That is the last thing Elraven wants to hear at this condition, but he has to hear it, "Your robe is gone…Ifrit must have attacked you as well, right?"

"Right…with a huge fire blast…he called Volcanic Cannon…"

"That must be when…he also burnt your butterfly wings…"

"No, no! This cannot be happening! No!" Elraven panicked, searching to his pocket again and again although it is otiose, "I, I put it right here! No, no, please don't let this happen! Not right now!"

"Elraven…stop it…" Randgris felt pity for El; she put her hand above his, stopping his movement, "It's enough…stop it…"

"But…"

"Listen…listen to me" Randgris pulled out something from her other hand, the special butterfly wings Frea passed to her at the top of Yggdrasil, "Take this…and use it to go back home…"

"No, no! I cannot do that!" El still stood to his belief, knowing full well what it means, "I am not going to leave you and Frea here! Never!"

"Elraven…you have to be reasonable…" And here comes the inconvenient truth, "I used mine to remove the black box. Yours is destroyed…face it, Elraven, only one of us can get out of this place and escape death….and it has to be you…"

"Why…why me? This is unfair!" Elraven shook his head in denial, not wanting to accept the truth that what Randgris just said is the truest, "I hadn't done anything worthy ever since setting my feet on this place! You sacrificed your ticket to go home! Frea fought Ifrit! And all I could do was watching! There must be some other way! I won't leave you and Frea here!"

"There is no other way….you have to…accept that truth, Elraven" Each word coming out from Randgris broke Elraven's spirit, piece by piece, "…you cannot die here…not now…I realized that…Frea realized that…which is why we made our sacrifice…we all have to make one…it's all…for the greater good…"

"Why…" Elraven couldn't believe that there is someone who would actually throw away their own life only for him, who has done nothing, to live. And he couldn't help but questioning it, "Why are you doing this?"

"…because you…are the pillar that sustain…the alliance…together" The same words Elraven has heard many times now are being repeated. He quietly listened to Randgris as the meaning of her words grew deeper inside him, "You…have to go back…to where you belong…to where the people you love…are waiting…"

Sacrifices; Elraven has heard of that word ever since the first time he chose to undergo the path as a gunslinger. But over the missions he's had, be it in Einbroch or Rune Midgard, he never lost a single companion. And he always managed to get out of any danger alive. As such, he never truly understood the meaning of the word 'sacrifice'. But now he is facing a vicious truth: onle one of them can go back alive AND he has to choose. There's nothing sadder than having to let your companion go, forever. Elraven has been haunted by the feelings Ifrit incepted to him, and now this? This is too much even for someone who has a regeneration spell that can heal every wound. But he knew Randgris can't be any more correct. We make our sacrifices for the greater good. From the start, this is the mission that bears the utmost weight in a long time. He is reminded again of its importance for the moment, in the most unpleasant way. One that will change his life forever, no matter what decision he takes.

"Take this…and go…" One more time, Randgris offered the only special butterfly wings left. Inside, she hopes for Elraven to just go and free her off this deed. She stared into his eyes, and felt its warmth. That's true, despite all his lacks and minuses, Elraven is a big man with an even bigger heart. Big enough to be the one that supports a massive alliance. Perhaps it is the main reason why he is the figure that unites the two worlds. It can only be him, and that is why he has to survive. The stare is disconnected when Elraven closes his pupils with his eyelids, finally making a resolve.

"Alright…" Gently, Elraven accepted the offering, taking the butterfly wings into his hand, "I understand"

"Good…" Randgris said to herself, smiling. This is all for the greater good. The ironclad character cannot end his fate here, under the stygian land of God. A cross is finally lifted off her, "With this…everything…will be fine…"

Yet before a moment even passed, she could feel a lenify touch on her shoulder. Turning her head, she realized in utter appall, Elraven just placed the last special butterfly wings on her shoulder. "No! No!" Randgris is terrified as a white light began to radiate from her body, "No, don't this! No, no!"

"It's for the greater good, Randgris, like you said" Elraven concocted an exalted reply, maintaining tranquility in every word he said, "You deserve some happiness as well. I'm not the only with loved ones waiting for me at home, right?"

"It's not supposed to be like this!" Her back ached when she screamed, but the valkyrie could care less, "Why? How could you do this?"

Elraven did not response with even a flicker. His face stays unruffled. The only response from him was placing his sight on Randgris' pupils, who looked back at him. For the first time since their encounter, Elraven could see it clearly: tears are falling down from Randgris' eyes. She was always silent and appeared tough, so he got the vibe that Randgris is a badass without blood and tears. But he is proven wrong at the moment.

"Why did you do this, Elraven?" For a moment of neglect, Randgris feels boundless regret. She never thought Elraven would go over the boundary to keep her alive, "This isn't happening! No! Why, oh, why did you do this?"

"Sacrifice" Elraven assuagely answered, "We all have to make one, don't we?"

"No, not like this! You cannot do this!" Tears began to burst out from Randgris' eyes as she clung to Elraven, unavailingly wishing to take him with her, "You said you understood! You said you understood!"

"Because this is the right thing to do, Randgris. That's what I understood, doing the right thing" With ennoble motion, Elraven circled his hand around Randgris' left wrist and took it off him, placing his talkie in Randgris' hand without letting the lock in their eyes go, "You made your sacrifice. Frea made her sacrifice. Now, I'm making mine. Go home, Randgris. Go home, and tell them, we will win the battle"

"Why? Why? How could you?" Randgris cried out, tears are flowing down from her face like a waterfall. She could feel the only hold she has on El growing weaker and weaker. Her transfer to Rune Midgard is almost complete, "You fool! You fool! You cannot die here!"

Elraven knew Randgris didn't really mean calling him a fool. She was just too caught up on her emotion, "Once you return back to Rune Midgard, just press the red button above the speaker. It will send your location to Pegasus, and they will pick you up"

"This cannot be happening…don't do this…" Randgris sobbed; her voice sounds like shrieks, nonetheless pleas are the only thing still coming out from the loyal servant of Odin, "You have to go back…it's not supposed to be like this…"

"Tell Emilio, I'm honored to be his friend. He's a good man, and I wish him well. I'm sorry for all the trouble I have caused. Tell him to take care of the guys in Ropera" Elraven knew goodbyes would only hurt Randgris, but he does have things to say. And there is no way Randgris going to ignore what may be his last words.

"No…don't say that, no…you're getting out of here…" The valkyrie tearfully aver to anyone who listens. She couldn't bear the thought of it; she muttered things she knew may not happen.

"Tell Miss Helen, I'm so sorry, but it seems that…I cannot keep my promise to cook the gala dinner together with her. I'm sorry thepartyr's off, but I thank her for trying to help me" Elraven's lips moved and fabricated a smile, which he showed to the affrighted lady.

"You can't do this…you're going back…and you're going to tell them yourself…" Her voice is getting weaker. Her vision is getting blurry. She is coming home.

"And tell Alexandria…I hope she finds the happiness she's looking for in her life. I hope she can find it in her heart to forgive what I did to her. And…although, it looks like I can no longer be her guardian angel, tell her I will always be looking over her" Elraven's sad smile is the last thing Randgris caught from Asgard.

After that, she heard nothing anymore. Asgard, Elraven, vanished from her vision. Only in that moment, she finally realized: a big man with an even bigger heart. So big it joins two worlds. So big…that he puts others before himself. From the very beginning, his conscience was clear. He was never going to change his mind. She never stood a chance. Now, she's back. She's home.

The Angel of Darkness stayed quiet for a good amount of time before looking up at Tartarus End. He stood back up, turning his head to where Frea might have fallen. Maybe it's because their soul is linked, but El appears to be like…he just knew where Frea is. So he steps forward, "Frea…I'll be there soon…"

0000

There's a saying, that loneliness is the hardest cross to bear, because you cannot share it with someone else. Loneliness is the last any normal person would want in their life, much less Frea, who is weakly lying on her back in the ground, not far from one of the roots. She endured unbelievable amount of pain and punishment when Betelgeuse pored her, melting almost every inch of her skin, burning her hair, injuring her eyes, and robbing her of her hearing. She didn't even know how severe her injury was after the burning and falling from the top of Yggdrasil. She is made sure she has completely lost her ability to even move the slightest. She cannot see with her right eye, she cannot feel her right arm, she cannot even motion her head just a little to check out what damages have been done to her. She realized, with such injuries, there is no way she can survive this. She is going to die.

To make it worse, she is alone. The place is frighteningly quiet. The only thing growing and moving is the massive flame sphere far above the sky.

"It's…really quiet…this silence…" The wind does not even pass anymore. To die alone, sustaining an otherworldly pain, must be the last way anyone wants to spend their last seconds. Frea wanted to call out, saying something, calling for someone, but she couldn't. She is unable to get her voice out of her throat; there is no energy left for her to even whisper. "I...had imaginations…on how I will spend the last minutes of my life…but never like this", She's heard somewhere, that being apart and lonely is like rain. It climbs toward evening from the ocean plains; from flat places, rolling and remote, it climbs to heaven, which is its old abode. And only when leaving heaven drops upon the city. It rains down on us in those twittering hours when the streets turn their faces to the dawn, and when two bodies who have found nothing, disappointed and depressed, roll over; and when two people who despise each other have to sleep together in one bed- that is when loneliness receives the rivers..., "I…don't want to go like this…not like this…"

Her eyes straddled as far as they can reach. The terror of being annihilated to bits stroke her mind again. She refuses to believe her life is going to end this way; she refuses…and wanders, as long as her mind allows it, "As the sunlight slowly faded away, the city lights flickered on, one by one, illuminating everything on the outside and casting a shadow on the inside. As time slowly ticked past, the darkness inched closer and closer, spreading its shadows across the land, my inner self comes alive"

She never knew solitary can be such a cruel punishment, and a cruel way to end one's life, more or less her own. Now she truly understood what Elraven must have felt when his friends disregarded his presence. Though it may appear to be funny in the outside, it's very hurtful in the inside. And to make it even worse, there is nothing she can do to change her condition right now, "As much as I struggle and curl underneath the blanket, my fears come alive, and slowly engulfs me from the inside and tears up the mask that I so successfully put on during the day, fears that torment me from the inside during the day comes alive as soon the light fades away and I am back into my den, with a mind of its own, tormenting me every single night, sometimes I wished I was dead; surrounded by many, yet isolated and alone, I try to reach out to people but succeed in grasping just empty air; struggling to keep my sanity, I plunge myself into darkness for its the only place to hide, to cope with all this. I give up and cry myself to sleep; it's tiresome to want something you don't have, and each morning I wake with loneliness by my side, each day I walk with its presence in my footsteps, each night it lies hand in hand with my insomnia"

She had believed each one person born on earth has someone destined for him or her. In a way, she has seen people finding their destined someone. But never her; she never felt or experienced it. Even if she had, it didn't last as long as she had hoped for it to be. "Perhaps I have become invisible? Or have I become just a figment of imagination? They cried on my shoulders and i soaked up their tears, asking for nothing in return, but when I need someone, where did they all go?" At the very least, if she had to wither into another lifetime, she doesn't want it to be alone.

"Is there…really no one destined for me? Even when my life is about to end?" She couldn't contain her tears anymore. Like a drizzle, one tear slowly drops from her left, followed by another, "I don't want…to be alone…anyone, anyone would do…please…don't…leave me…alone…"

Only then, her prayer is answered. It's a weak sound, but she could swear she just heard a step resounding not far from where she is lying. Gathering all her remaining power, which is not much at all, she turned her head to her left side, and there he is. Her knight in shining armor, standing tall, "…el?"

Elraven is there, looking at her. The gunslinger couldn't believe what he is seeing; the once gorgeous goddess has turned completely different in the looks department. Her right arm is gone, destroyed into nothingness, leaving only devastating burns on her right shoulder; must be because she received Betelgeuse right on with her right arm taking its impact first. The burns are also visible from head to toe with her clothing torn all over. On top of losing most of her hair, her legs she counted so much on doing her deeds today also lost most of their skins, exposing her flesh to the outside world. Her body is even more torturous, El doesn't have the heart to describe it. And her face…the right side of her face has basically melted, which explains why she is unable to see and hear from her right. It came off; as well as her lips. As much as this is vile to say, good thing Frea, who is known for her looks and liked how she had looked, isn't able to see herself right now. The gunslinger doesn't have the guts to even begin to imagine her reaction.

But ever so calmly, there is no sign of pity in Elraven's eyes. Her looks are never the thing he once loved in her, it's something else entirely. Only sadness hangs around his pupils, knowing what their impending fate will be.

"It's…you" Frea's joyous tone brought El back to the world at the same time it stopped her cries, "It's…really you…"

"Of course it's me, Frea. You weren't expecting someone else, were you?" Even at times like this, El still has that sense of humor. It must be one of many things Frea liked about him.

"…won't tell…that's a secret…" Frea giggled to herself, now she can finally put a smile on her face. Thankfully it seems during their time together, they shared the same sense of humor. One which Elraven welcomed with a smile, as he made his way to her.

He kneeled right by her side, and as gentle as he could do it, he put her head on his lap, so that she feels a lot more comfortable; so that they can take a better look at each other; so that they can share their warmth; their last moment, together, "Comfy?"

"…always…" Frea felt a lot more relaxed. With Elraven here now, suddenly all her fears have vanished. She can be sure that the moment she closes her eyes forever, she will not be alone. Elraven will be there for her, "…what do you think Fenrir will do if he sees us like this?"

"Meh, probably his usual jibber-jabber. No action, talk only" El let out a small laugh just thinking about it, which Frea also agreed with the same small laugh.

It's odd, just last night they were together talking about what they're going to do once they're home. But now they're here, waiting for their apparent doom. It's baroque how fate intertwines with things.

"So…how's Randgris?" Frea moved to the more serious matter, maybe trying to find solace on knowing her last mission isn't a fail.

"I sent her home. She's done enough" Elraven told her the way it was, "It's our victory, Frea. We won the battle, and we will win the war in the end"

"Of course the victory is ours…" The soul linker kept her pride strong despite all the vicious macabre exacted to her, "I would not have it any other way"

"Neither would I, dear" The two stayed in stillness for a brief second. They have done musings their mission, now it's time for something else. Something that matters, something that brings enlightenment. For this maybe their final chance to do so.

That same softness Frea once felt when they were together can be seen again by her, when his eyes met her only remaining eye from her above. She just wants to feel sure. After all, this may be the last time she can feel, so she didn't hold back, at all, "Tell me…one thing, El"

"What is it?" And El didn't hesitate giving a quick answer either.

"Why…did you come back for me?" There it is, "Don't…tell me…Randgris didn't try to…stop you…"

"Oh, believe me, she tried. And I understood her completely, it's just…" This feels like a second confession for Elraven. The first one went smoothly in Payon, but this one bears more meaning to it, "I cannot leave you alone. I don't want to leave you alone"

Frea lips formed an O; she was pleasantly and completely surprised. Just last night she thought maybe there is still chance for them to reunite. Now, that the chance looks unlikelier than ever, she was expecting something different from his answer, but she should have known better. She knew El is never good at lying: he came back for her and only for her. Whatever the reason is does not matter anymore. She got it all figured out, and she feels content for it, "It's your way…to show me…that I deserve some happiness in my life, right?"

"One that you will never forget, dear" Elraven didn't even try to hide his true intention. He had meant it to be that way, and he is grateful Frea looked at it that way, "Even if it lasts for only a brief amount of time, the fact that it's there will never wither. I will always carry it inside me, as you also will"

"That…pure kindness…is the one thing I love the most about you…" As the waterwork welts inside her eye again, she cries for the second time today; but this time, it's tears of happiness flowing down her face. Happiness of knowing that she is loved, cherished, and remembered. The happiness of knowing that there is someone for her, and that someone stays with her until the very end. The happiness of knowing that even after all the horrible things befell her life and fate, someone is there to give her one final joy. The happiness of knowing someone does have lasting feelings for her. Like magic is helping her, she could move her left arm, weakly however. Elraven delicately guided her left hand with his, and hold it firm, "I'm…such a lucky woman…"

"Sure, you are. No one can say otherwise, Frea" Elraven ensured her so; no doubt in his mind.

"It's…cold, El…" The one thing Elraven doesn't want to hear is finally out on the open, "Can you…hold me for a little while, please?"

"Sure, I will hold you as long as you want" Still retaining the left hand grip they share, Elraven slowly move her so he can circle his right arm around her neck. This way, not only he can embrace her, but she can also res her head in his right arm. Elraven could feel her grip grow colder, and that can only point to one thing. One thing he avoids to say, "Comfy?"

"Always" Was her only answer. Elraven hold her a little bit tighter to make sure his warmth goes to her. To make sure she holds out as long as possible. This moment cannot last forever, after all.

"So...I guess…" Frea continued, weakly, "You do deserve your answer"

"Hm? What answer?" The things happening today have taken its toll on El's mind, he forgot the one thing he asked to Frea last night. But that's completely acceptable, of course. Anyone would have.

"You asked me…what makes me happy the most" Ah, that question. The only thing still lingering from last night's late night talk. Elraven recalls it now, "Now, I am sure…what is it that makes me the happiest"

"…alright…fill me in on the secret" The dark haired man asked back with patience, not sure of himself why.

There's a slight fear loitering in the insensitive man. He had tried to predict what her answer would be, and how painful it was if, in the very last moment of her life, the one thing that makes her the happiest is something or someone that has been long gone, or isn't here for her. Elraven waited with that footling worry, hoping for the best. And then, she finally voiced her answer. It is so velvety, more than a whisper and the wind will take it to disappear, forever. "….it's you, El" Frea gave out her answer with love, touching even Elraven's insensitive heart and in the process, his perishing the doubt tarrying inside him, "My whole life…it is whenever I am with you I feel happy the most. I feel content, I feel complete, I feel succinct, I feel compendious. I feel like there is nothing I need to hide. There is no cross I have to bear. There is no worry I have to feel….no fear I have to shelter…no doubt I have to follow. You…you are my happiness, El"

Like a mantra, her answer unlocked something inside Elraven's heart. Before long, Frea felt a drip of water on her cheek. She maintained a look, and saw Elraven's starting to cry his heart out. The only time Elraven ever shed his tears was when he thought he lost Fiorentin at Glast Heim. But being the human that he is, he can no longer hold his tears from coming out. Her confession gave something to him. Something that cannot be explained, but it's there and it's real. His tears dripped to her face, allowing her to feel his warmth for the last time.

"Your tears…are so warm, El" Even when her own eyes are still teary, his warmth can be felt. It shows out how deep his feelings are, "Warm…just like your words…your eyes…your touch…your feelings…I am blessed…"

"As am I" Elraven choked back a little bit, trying to fight the urge to let go of more tears to no avail, "To receive such words…I am blessed. I am more than blessed. I am loved, Frea"

"And I am…grateful …" On her dying breath, the soul linker heralded the truest of her feelings. The one feeling that she is living in for one last time, "That…before all this…ends…for me…it is you…whom I have by my side…Elraven"

"…" The tears didn't stop dropping out from Elraven. Even when he knew she's going to a better place; even when he knew that place will be a beautiful world of serenity when no one suffers, his imperviousness of pain seems to have gone, replaced by seemingly a resilient urge to let go of every sorrow he housed in him. For he knew, from now on, the only thing he will do, even for a short amount of time, isn't morning her loss anymore. It will be celebrating her life; remembering her spirit. He will do all that, even for just one second. So he'll hold nothing back; for this is the last time he is able to do so. For one last time, he will let her know she is not alone. For one last time, he bid her farewell, "Good night, sweetheart"

Just like Elraven's face is the last thing she ever saw, his parting words is the last thing Frea ever heard in her lifetime. And with that, there is nothing more to be said. There is no feeling left to be told. Her farewell is complete. Her eye felt weak, so she closed it, slowly, never opening it again. Her tears no longer slide on her cheek; only his do. Her lips no longer move. Her rejoicing smile remains on her face, until the very end, never digressing. Her grip on his hand stands only because he didn't let go of it; for he knew, once he ever did, it will never return. Until her last moment, Frea lived with love in her heart and courage in her soul. She departed in the embrace of her happiness; with his warmth replacing the coldness of death. She couldn't have asked for more. She is gone; but above all others, she is free.

Elraven closed his eyes, tears still coming out. Gently, he holds her closer to himself. Not saying a word, not taking a glance, there is just halcyon still.

From the reach of heaven, The Fire God of Rune Midgard witnessed everything, every second of it. He is right below Tartarus End; so he extended his right arm upward, touching the colossal fire sphere. "GOODBYE" He said, as the prodigious spell finally exploding, starting with an ear-shattering sound coming of it. Its heat pierces Yggdrasil and extinguishes it into pieces the moment the fire starts spreading out. Its power struck the abysmal sky and colors it crimson. Its viciousness pummels the ground and turns them into rubbles. Its vileness turns every being it touches, dead or alive, into burning shreds. And finally, as every single point of Asgard is consumed in merciless flaming lava, the spell conceals both Frea & Elraven in it. Until nothing can be seen from them and their surroundings anymore; until nothing can be heard, seen, and felt from The Citadel of Gods any longer…

Asgard is finally no more.

0000

The human heart has hidden treasures, in secret kept, in silence sealed. The thoughts, the hopes, the dreams, the pleasures, whose charms were broken if revealed. And days may pass in confusion, and nights in rosy riot fly, while, lost in fame's or wealth's illusion, the memory of the past may die. But, there are hours of lonely musing. Such as in evening silence come. When, soft as birds their pinions closing, the heart's best feelings gather home.

Then in our souls there seems to languish. A tender grief that is not woe; and thoughts that once wrung groans of anguish. Now cause but some mild tears to flow. And feelings, once as strong as passions, float softly back a faded dream; our own sharp grieves and wild sensations. The tale of others' sufferings seem. Oh, when the heart is freshly bleeding, how longs it for that time to be, when, through the mist of years receding, its woes but live in reverie.

And it can dwell on moonlight glimmer, on evening shade and loneliness; and, while the sky grows dim and dimmer, feel no untold and strange distress only a deeper impulse given by lonely hour and darkened room, to solemn thoughts that soar to heaven, seeking a life and world to come.

The sky starts to drizzle when Fiorentin looks over the window of her room. It's still a cold night in Amatsu, even colder tonight because the sky seems to cry over something. A tragedy, or a sacrifice perhaps. It's like they are mourning. "When are they going to come back? It's been hours since they sent The Orb of Edda" Fiorentin mused to herself, knowing full well no one is going to listen if she puts them into real voiced words either way.

She began to suspect something when wrong when the trio didn't return right after the finish of their quest. But she didn't want to think that something bad might have happened. She stayed positive, hoping for the best. And since the party didn't really have anything to do, they left Pegasus after a brief celebration. Fiorentin went straight back to her room, sit on her chair with her two hands in her lap and has stayed there ever since. Just looking out the window, waiting for some news to come out.

She didn't realize it, when the feather Elraven gave to her as a present to complete her tiara fell, ever so flimsy, eventually landing on the back of her right hand, capturing her attention at last. Her eyes broadened; a thought just struck her from the inside. A very eerie and shuddery thought, better left unsaid, "…El?"

Outside, he drizzle turned into rain, a heavy one. The water drops didn't stop trickling from heaven. The sky is indeed crying.

0000

Phew! Finally! Kogane-kun, as you told me you wanted a long ass chapter, something like 80 pages, I went all out and give this chapter, totaled in 92 pages! The longest chapter in the history of The Knigthfall; its 100th chapter! I don't know if I will ever make a chapter this long again, but I think it served its purpose, being a supposed milestone chapter and all. And it took me almost three months to finish this! I hope I delivered, I hope u got a good read, guys!

I know, my decision in this chapter will be met with heavy reaction from some of the readers, I'm aware and ready for that. And I did it because I think it's pivotal for the story to move on. If you wanna throw it at me, bring it on. I'll take it like a man.

On a related note, Frea is originally a character suggested by my friend Adilla Oktora. He told me something about a soul linker character and I went for it. So thank you Adilla for your suggestion. And now that I think of it, she lasted from chapter 16, which makes it 85 chapters! What a long way to go! Truth be told, I was sad having to let her go, but that is part of life, and that is part of this story. I will live with it.

I dunno if I will update within the next month. I'm spent and I'm busy with work. Either way, thank you for reading, guys! Reviews are always welcomed! C u next chappy!