(Trails into Reverie ost - Invisible Hand in the Shadows)
"Long time no see, Lloyd." Rean smiled.
"Oh, phew... You seem to be doing all right." Juna sigh of relief. "But is it true... you were killed during the signing ceremony?"
"I was, yes. But Veyle resurrected me. I'm glad that to see the rest of you are okay." Lloyd smiled
"Arundel told us you'd come to Crossbell, but feels much better seeing your face." Randy smiled.
"I take it you were able to do whatever jamming our communications?" Kokonoe asked
"Yeah. We managed to disable the device that was responsible. It was using Sonorous Seasheel to jam communication." Rean nodded.
"The Sonorous Seashell?" Litchi asked in surprise.
"It's an Artifact that was discovered by Prince Olivert a few years ago. It's capable of transferring encrypted orbal communications over an ultra-long distance." Wazy explain. "So that was causing the Jamming... so it was used by that."
"What do you mean?" Lloyd asked
"I heard from the gravevine that someone infiltrated the church's HQ and stole one of the artifacts." Wazy answered, causing everyone to have an !? over their head
"They stole an artifact from the church!?" Elie asked in shock.
"Who could have done such a thing? They must be insane to pull that off." Alisa grimaced.
"We don't know exactly who... but we found it in the Castle of Mirrors in Mishelam. You wouldn't believe the horror we've gone through to recover it." Levi muttered. "That aside, Rean and I were so worried... completely sick when we heard what happened at the ceremony."
"Yeah...that the co-supreme leaders sentenced all members of the SSS and those who support them to be given the death penalty... I'm so that you resurrected him, Veyle." Rean smiled
"I'm glad too. Guess I can put this power to good use..." Veyle smiled
"It is also a relieve that you are well." Marvier said. "I imagine that Zelestia and the others are concern about our whereabouts."
"How are they by the way?" Madeline asked.
"They've heard and were concerned. Griss was panicking when he found out." Amia smiled. "I'll let them know... But I'm so relief that you're okay Veyle... you too Brother, Seadall."
"Us too, Sister." Alear smiled.
"I'm also so glad none of you weren't caught... And nothing bad happening to you... Espcually you... Alisa, Machias, Towa, Sharon, Alear, Seadall, Veyle, Yosuke, Chie..." Rean smiled with relief in his voice. "I've heard from Arceus and Hoopa that Kirito, Roxas, Xion, Terra, Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Amy, Blaze, Silver, Erza, Gajeel, Lily, Nil, Rafal, Sakura, Takumi, Camilla, Futaba, Claude, Hilda, Lysithea, Taokaka, Professor Kokonoe, Tager, Litchi, Team JPRN, Alhaitham and some of the Phantom Thieves made their way to Crossbell when it was occupied. But... I thought Shadow was with you.."
"He was, last I've heard he went into Crossbell City but haven't heard from him in awhile." Sonic said.
"But it certainly a mouthful to call almost everyone's names." Ann pointed out while Alisa wiped her tears.
"Same to you, Rean!" Alisa smiled
"And I see our bracer friends have been fighting the good fight over there." Sara said
"Thanks gang." Fie smiled.
"You might also want to know that we were able to rescue Prince Olivert and Lady Scherazard, so don't you worry another minute about that." Musse added
"Really?!" Tita asked
Estelle sigh with relief. "That IS a relief."
"Heh. It's a shame they had hell to deal with straight off into their honeymoon." Agate said.
"Then you should have seen Mueller scolding Olivert." Luigi chuckled. "But the good thing right now is that they are okay."
"You're right. If only that spelled the end of our troubles..." Joshua muttered
"I take it that you heard about that proclaimed supreme leader's statement earlier?" Zhongli asked. "We were only able to catch a small glimpse of it."
"Oh, it's completely crazy. Here, I'll give you the update." Futaba said as she began to explain to them about what the fake Rufus's said.
With Rean's group...
"That is sheer madness!" Jusis yelled.
"He wants the Empire, the Republic— no— the world to swear fealty to him?" Musse asked
"Tch. That idiot completely lost his damn mind." Diluc muttered.
"I imagine the Empire will remain silent for the time being, but Calvard would never. They won't hesitate to crush Crossbell upon labeling it a terrorist state— and they'll point the fault for its formation at Erebonia." Claire muttered
"Considering about their new president, It's most likely that case." Xander fold his arms.
"Not to mention that Rufus who occupied Crossbell isn't the real one... but an Imposter." Edelgard sighed.
"That little revelation was quite the shocker." Randy muttered
"I can't believe the person responsible for occupying the city isn't even the real guy." Noel Seeker groaned
"We've met the real one in the capital... but I'm still surprised that there are two Rufus at once." Monica said.
"And yet, we encounter several fakes wherever we go. The Divine Blade of Wind, Almighty Conflagration, the Mad Dog... and now Master Xehanort." Kazuha told them.
"And those fake are nothing more than a simulacrum." Kokonoe fold her arms. "It's possible to create one of you have the proper technology level like mine, Atlas and the Mushroom Kingdom... I wouldn't be surprised if the Koopa Kingdom is capable of it either. But for one to make one, they require vast data on the person in mind. It's no different than cloning."
"No denying that." Tio nodded. "But let's also not forget the fact that the speed the dake occupied Crossbell after breaking out of hail seemed almost impossible til the whole replica angel came to light."
"Yeah, and thanks to Detective Pikachu here, we were able to come up with that hypothesis." Wazy said.
"Yeah. There were a few things that struck me as 'off,' for lack of a better term. Like how Lechter felt his actions as a fellow Ironblood didn't make any sense. Thanks to Detective Pikachu's skills as a detective, and once we learned about all the replicas, everything else began to fall into place." Lloyd replied
"Heh. Who knew I'd be a clue?" Lechter chuckled.
"Well, if he's not the real deal, that makes things simple for us. We've just gotta smash his fake-ass face in." Ash smirked.
"I'm with Ash. But now we got a barrier problem. It's completely covered the entire state and the strongest one surorund the city, right?" Juna muttered.
"Yeah, that's the jest of it." Tails nodded.
"We won't be able to liberate Crossbell so long as the barriers in place. Which gives our co-supreme leaders time to wipe all of us out to recover..." Tio muttered. "We need to find a way to shut down those barriers."
"Not to mention we're also going to need to be careful for other replicas that we know is at large." Juna pointed out.
"Not to mention that other "Rean" we met back at the Castle of Mirrors." Aqua said. "But he feels completely different compared to the fakes."
"Yeah. Not to mention that other Divine Knight called... Zoa Gilstein or something right?" Lea asked.
"Yes. However, that Divine Knight is impossible. Even by my knowledge." Zhongli told them. "I remember clearly that there are only seven. Never has been an eighth. What's more... both Valimar and I can attest that Divine Knights wields all of the Divine Knight's power as one. By that conclusion— It was the Sept-Terrion of Steel. I'm sure my siblings and a certain someone can agree to that."
"You're right. Not to mention we still have Valimar, Ordine, and other Divine Knights with us." Celine added.
"Yeah. Each one holds a fragment of the Great One's power. If that Divine Knight holds the full power of the Great One... then it's how is it possible for it to exist if all Divine Knights are present?" Alisa wondered.
"Not to mention who was that other Rean too. I expected his appearance to be the same as our Rean here... and yet... it's not. Everything about him is completely different, downright his personality... it's almost like he's a complete barbarian." Leafa added.
"Considering every one of us knows Rean at this point... whoever that "Rean" was... can't be the real Rean." Peach said as everyone agreed.
"And what he said in the end is omnious..." Levi muttered. "But also a clue."
'I suppose this is our first meeting in 'this' world.'
"He said 'This' world... Something tells me there is more to the story behind his background." Mona fold her arms.
"Hmm..." Mario rub his chin. 'This' world... could he mean by another world... no... that's not it...'
"There are many questions that need answers. What's more, that Divine Knight needs to be dealt with. The SSS will help you however we can, Rean. Let's do this together." Lloyd said.
"Thanks Lloyd." Rean smiled. "We want to help you just as much. Whatever you need to liberate Crossbell, you can count on us."
"You can count on us too!" Daisy smirked. "There's no way we're gonna let that scumbag get away with all the things he's done!"
"Espcually since he will after the other nations in the world too." Weiss nodded.
"Right! We're going to need all the help we can get to resolve this-"
"Then allow us to offer our assistance as well." A voice said as everyone has an !? over their heads
(BGM ended)
"Wha-?!" Lloyd said and suddenly, join in the personal communication network were Rufus and Neve.
"Rufus?!" Jusis exclaimed
"Neve?!" Sora exclaimed
With Rufus's group...
(Trails into Reverie ost - Raindrop in the Wind)
"Forgive us for listening in, but we have to take the chance once the opportunity presents itself." Neve said as he and Rufus then turned their ARCUS Alpha to let their team see their team.
"R-Renne?!" Tita exclaimed. "Florian? Nemona? Penny? Arven? Kieran? Carmine?"
"Zelt!" Tio exclaimed.
"Mom?! Wait, is that Emerald?" Yang asked in surprise.
"Wait, is that Ragna, Jin, Hakumen, Rachel too?" Ruby asked in surprise. "Wait a minute, even Es too?! What the heck, Ragna, Jin! You were with us, right?"
"The hell?! Even you Kevin?! Ries?" Agate gasped in surprise. "Even the Emblem Bladelord, Emblem Arios, and the Steel Maiden."
"I remember giving Celica and Lief's ring to Florian and Penny but I didn't expect to see you guys with them." Alear said
"Shadow? Rogue? Omega? Kammy?" Sonic asked
"Mitsuru-San? Fuuka-san? Labyrs? Aigis?" Yu asked.
Makoto Yuki staring at Mitsuru, Aigis and Fuuka's face. "Mitsuru-senpai, Aigis, Fuuka..."
?! Appeared over Mitsuru, Aigis and Fuuka's head on their head as they gasped among who is in the call.
"It can't be..." Mitsuru whispered
"Makoto...san?" Fuuka shivered
"..." Makoto close his eyes, remaining silent.
"Wario? Waluigi?" Mario asked.
"Aether, Paimon, Albedo?" Zhongli asked. "Wait... is that you, Xiao?!"
"Even the Divine Blade of Wind, The Belligant Paragon, Duvalie, and Noel!" Laura exclaimed
"The heck? I never expected Noel to be with Rufus of all people." Ventus said.
"Yes, the irony is not lost on me." Noel roll his eyes.
"Hahah! Nice to see you, everyone." Tartaglia chuckled.
"Yes. It's good to see you all are doing well." Emblem Loewe agreed.
"Indeed. Especially you, Lloyd." Emblem Arianrhod smiled
"I am pleased to see you again, my friends." Zelt said
"Pay me no mind." Duvalie look the other way. "Call me but a fly on the wall of this whole affair."
"I apologize for disappearing without notice," Arios said. "Rest assured that Shizuku is well and in the care of someone we can trust."
"That's good. I was worried about her." KeA sighs with relief.
"This is great and all, but... when did you get there, Renne!?" Estelle asked
"We thought you were still in Paldea." Joshua said.
"Yeah, why are you two bozos doing with Rufus?" Daisy asked.
"We could ask you the same Mitsuru-san. I thought you and the rest of the Shadow Operatives were busy elsewhere." Naoto said.
"Yeah, What about you Shadow, Rogue, Kammy, Omega?" Amy asked
"And you as well Aether, Albedo, Xiao?" Zhongli asked.
"Yeah, I wanna know what you're doing Mom, especially with her!" Yang grumbled.
"What about you Noel? I thought you hated Rufus with all your heart." Roxas asked
"Me, Florian, Penny, and the others sneaked our way into Crossbell after getting a message from Grandpa Joerg. I couldn't contact you from the inside— and I had to be careful about when to reach out after I joined our fine friend here." Renne answered
'We were busy with our own thing but... something about the occupation rubs me the wrong way so we're here to help out too."Florian said.
"For me. I was in Crossbell with Yamagishi, Aigis, and Labyrs when the occupation happened. We wanted to explore Crossbell when the event in question happened." Mitsuru explained.
"For us, we were minding our business in Crossbell until those EDF punks messed with us. We made a run for it when this guy's clone appeared out of nowhere and we had to get away." Wario folds his arms and looks the other way.
"He was annoying along with those wise guys." Waluigi agreed.
"Well I know you don't want to believe me, but I'm retiring with all this villain stuff. I just wanted to live a good ol' normal life now."Hazama replied.
"Tch... Yeah, right..." Ragna muttered
"I came to Crossbell to help overthrow the co-supreme leader when this happened. I found Emerald along the way who heard Cinder Fall was spotted here. I assume she's an imposter." Raven explained.
"Yeah..." Emerald muttered
"For me and Jin... Rabbit here teleported us because she, along with Aether, Es, and the wolf here were investigating a presence that suddenly appeared two days ago." Ragna said
"After teleporting us, we encounter our greatest foe here, attacking Rufus's group." Jin replied.
"So many familiar faces here and there." Kevin shocked. "I'm here because I'm investigating a thief from the church. And it's all link to Crossbell from the looks of it." Kevin said
"Ah, so that's why you're here..." Wazy said
"We were also contacted by Miss Bright to provide extra backup." Ries added.
"I'm... here to investigate the presence that appeared in the northeast of here and was relocated to Crossbell." Xiao answered.
"For us, we were on a mission to investigate the occupation of Crossbell. We made quite the discovery." Rouge said.
"And our objective is to eliminate him should he prove to be too dangerous for the world." Shadow answered.
"As for me if any of you are wondering, I'm here to pick up a passage until the occupation happens." Tartaglia chin in.
"As for me, when I heard about Rufus's occupied Crossbell... I was completely furious at him. So the Stallritter and I investigate and plan to kill him ourselves." Noel fold his arms. "But getting into Crossbell is a lot more tricky than expected. We had to deal with Cao Lee, the Killing Bear, and the Divine Blade of Wind. As challenging as it was, I was able to push back both Cao Lee and Killing Bear... but Arios was tricky to handle."
"However..." Noel continued. "I've noticed something very strange with him. And now I've learned he was a fake which explains everything. Afterward, the Stalrritter and I split up as I went and killed many EDF soldiers and destroyed their new Zalber Soldots, and their supplies. Once I have done that, I plan to kill that son of a bitch myself. I ran into the real one... but... I let my emotions get the best of me. They told me everything that has been going on and I decided to join them to investigate and weaken the co-supreme leaders' power."
"I can't say I'm surprised if you're willing to kill the EDF..." Laura muttered.
"Trust us. He's definitely someone you don't want to make an enemy of. He managed to overwhelm Rufus too." Nadia said.
"I thought for sure that I would reach certain death, but by a stroke of luck, I was able to riposte his killing blow." Rufus admitted.
"I see..." Jusis said, looking down. "Well... I see you're still with those children we saw at the capital as well..."
"Now that I've revealed myself, I ought to start with some hellos... starting with our dear SSS. It's been some time. As for my friends from Thors, the ones who were in Heimdallr can see I've done away with my mask for the most part. And, Claire, Lecter— I'm pleased to see you're in good health."
"Heh. Nice Haircut." Lecter command.
"You really are him." Claire said with a soft smile.
"Yes. Everyone here can vouch that the Rufus with us is the real one... as Noel said when he was very close to killing him on the spot." Neve said. "But hello to the rest of you as well... as well as the other Keyblade Wielders."
"Hmph. I would like to make it clear that I was not hired to do anything. He only hired Naia and Swin. Not me." Lapis clarified.
Nadia giggled. "Aww. Did it bug you that much?"
Swin sighed. "He may as well be your boss, though."
"Since we all have a common goal, we have information I think you'll find very enlightening. It regards the nature of the being behind all of this." Rufus said
(BGM ended)
One explanation later...
(Trails into Reverie ost - Lapis)
"Elysium..." Litchi said as she thought.
"So that explains everything going on." Kokonoe muses
"So we now have a kind of technological singularity theorized by Professor Epstein..." Alisa trailed off.
"How funny. That something so life-ending as the war would be the key to granting new life like this instead." Tio agreed.
"A superintelligent AI that can calculate— in essence, predict- the future." Musse mused
"Inconceivable..." Ludwig mused.
"Not only it's capable of realizing calculations... but also creating those Simularuimlike the supreme leader who desires to enact Crossbell's occupation." Arval said.
"And the only way to try and stop it is through its formal administrator." Lloyd said, looking at Lapis. "Your name is Lapis, I think I heard."
"Lapis Rosenberg is correct, yes, but I would ask that you not stare in that boorish manner." Lapis fold her arms. " Rosenberg Dolls are noble and elegant. They must be looked upon with all the love and respect they are entitled."
"Sheesh, someone acting all bratty." Teddie muttered
"Too bratty." Ragna command.
"Bratty?! The nerve!" Lapis growled.
"All right, that's quite enough insulting one another." Yukiko said. "But you had to admit, she truly is the most beautiful doll I've ever seen."
"Yeah... I'm just in awe by looking at you." Lloyd nodded
"So am I. Bell's shown me Rosenberg's dolls before, but none of them compare to you." Elie agreed.
'Oh yeah... Maybe I should send a picture of her to Mariabell. I bet she'll be blown away.' Noel thought. 'Then again... She might tried to kidnap her.'
"Her base materials appear very different from combat shells, but the tech involved is still just as advance." Altina remark.
"Indeed. It's truly superb." Litchi said in awe.
"Not bad for a toy maker I suppose." Kokonoe command.
"Her faultless craftsmanship is truly Meister Joergs'ssignature." Sharon giggled
Tita let out a swoon. "I...I want to pop open the hood and get a good look at the tech inside..." She said with her eyes sparking.
"H-How crude! You're awful!" Lapis exclaimed.
Agate sweatdrop. "Down, Tita."
"I'm surprised they accepted that explanation without hesitation." Swin said.
"Guess future-prediction AIs are just Tuesday if you've been through enough crazy in your life." Nadia shrug.
"Oh trust me. You haven't seen anything crazy like we have. And we have Aigis, Labyrs and Omega who are AI." Rouge pointed out.
(BGM ended)
"True. I guess the whole new nations is something we should look into ourselves." Swin agreed.
(Trails into Reverie ost - Now, at the Beginning)
"If I may interrupt. Rean. There's something I wanted to ask you." Neve said
"Yes?" Rean asked
"You and the other discuss this "other you". But he's unlike any fake you encounter correct?"
"Yeah. His behavior, his appearance... It's like I'm speaking to a completely different person who bares my looks. His fighting style is mine... but at the same time... it's not... And his power... it feels completely otherworldly... but... a dangerous one... something that can't be explained. And what he said in the end brings me these unexplainable chills."
"Hmm..." Neve closes his eyes as he thinks this through.
"Neve... considering how insightful you are... you might know what's going on?" Rufus asked.
"... Could it be...?"
"You thought of something?" Rean asked.
"It's possible... but it's just a hypophysis... One last question. When you defeated him... did he give out sparks?" Neve asked
"No."
Neve closed his eyes again before opening them... and giving a grim look. "Then... I think I might have an idea... Maybe this "other Rean"... might be real."
"...!"
"And if that's the case after the things he said... then could it be possible that this other Rean might be the Administrator of Elysium? The one behind all of this?"
Everyone else stood silent over Neve's Hypothesis.
"You're kidding..." Levi said as he felt a sweat on his cheek.
"But... if that is true..." Mona gulped.
"Then it's most likely this Other Rean is the mastermind behind all of this... and he's using Elysium for all this chaos. And you let him escape your grasp. Though I can't say I blame you... considering what's happening." Neve said. "Still, it is a hypothesis so far. We don't know if it really the truth or not. But it is most likely. But the questions we should be asking is who is he really... and why is he doing this? And how did he gain control over Elysium when we next see him? But for right now... we need to deal with that matter in Crossbell."
"He's right. And if Neve's Hypoposis turns out to be true... we want to remove his administration rights... we're going to need the formal administrator's power to do that." Rufus said. "Though I am the man who enclosed many of you in a birdcage, and though I had a role in setting the Twilight in motion... would you still be willing to accept my help?"
Everyone began to look at each other for a moment they all nodded and turned to Rufus.
Lloyd's group...
"Rufus Albrea. On behalf of the Special Support Section of the Crossbell Police Department, I accept." Lloyd answered
"We've suffered a hell of a lot at your hands, for sure. But because of that, we know better than anyone just what you're capable of." Randy agreed.
Noel Seeker giggled. "It sounds weird when you say it out loud, but it's true."
"Calvard is likely preparing to act as we speak. But if we can swiftly liberate the city and begin negotiating with them, I don't think it's too late to turn this around." Elie said.
"Exactly. So we need to make the logical choice here." Tio nodded "The one that will allow us to earn Crssbell's independence once and for all."
"It's time to take back what matters most to us!" Rixia nodded
"You can count on us too." Mario said as the Mushroom Kingdom Team nodded.
"Same for us!" Sonic smirked as Sonic Team nodded.
"And us." Edelgard nodded as those from Fodlan nodded.
"Hehe. My Army will be supporting you. So count us in." Bowser smirked as his team nodded.
"You can count pretty much everyone here." Marth said as everyone nodded.
"Right. Everyone here is with you." Rean nodded.
"In that case, let us devise a plan to liberate Crossbell, free Ilya, and destroy the Co-Supreme Leader for good." Kamek said.
With Rufus's group...
"Just bear in mind that accepting your help here does NOT preclude you and I from a very long, very overdue talk." Jusis told Rufus.
Rufus let out a small chuckle. "Once this is over, you may have as much of my time as you, please. Now, then. We shall count ourselves among your number. This will be my chance to right my past wrongs. To complete what I'd left unfinished... and..."
"...And?" Neve turn to Rufus.
"Let's just say another reason..." Rufus said, turning to Swin, Nadia, and Lapis.
"Rufus..." Jusis trailed off.
"Good. Then let's begin the strategy meeting. But considering there are so many of us... I think we should relocate where to have this meeting." Arval said.
"My Castle is perfect enough. Or Peach's." Bowser suggests.
"In that case, let's head to Bowser's Castle. Hoopa." Lloyd said.
"I'm on it!" Hoopa said as he used his ring to open a portal leading to Bowser's Castle as they all entered the portal.
One meeting group later...
"All right, now that we're all here, let's begin planning." Lloyd said as they arrived in Bowser's War Room.
"Am I the only one who wonders how Bowser's War Room was able to fit this many people?" Machias asked
"Is it no different than any other war room or conference hall?" Kirito asked.
"He's got you there." Tails chuckled as Tio toss her ARCUS Alpha and the hologram reveal Crossbell's map.
"All right, here is the entire map of Crossbell." Tio said. "As we know, there is a massive barrier surrounding the entire state."
"It brings back memories back to the Azure Zero Project with Bell and Uncle Dieter use KeA." Elie muttered.
"Oh yeah, that was also around you met Lord Arceus." Hoopa replied.
"Can we get on with the meeting?" Shadow asked impatiently.
"Whoops, sorry, Shadow." KeA giggled, scratching her hair sheepishly.
'I swear this girl reminds me so much of Maria...'
"As Lloyd pointed out, Crossbell is protected by a massive barrier the co-supreme leaders has set up to protect Crossbell for the time being. Tio, were you and the others able to learn more about the barrier?" Wazy asked.
"We're still looking into it." Tio replied as she, Tails, Alisa, Alhaitham, Kirito, Yui, Tita, Fran, Penny, Renne, Noel, Futaba, and Fuuka typing. "However, the barrier is made out of different energy then orbal energy."
"A different, energy?" Rufus asked
"We're not entirely sure what type of energy, this barrier looks very formidable." Yui said. "Attacking that barrier is out of the question."
"Right. It would draw the EDF attention along with the other allies to the co-supreme leaders as well." Robin nodded in agreement. "I'm certain they must be aware we will try to attack the city. Or Calvard since now it became a terrorist nations because of that declarion."
"If we want to liberate Crossbell and take down the co-supreme leaders, we need to shut down the barrier. However, considering that it activated recently. I assume it's somewhere in Crossbell." Emblem Soren said.
"But the problem is where can we find the mechanism of shutting it down. By using Elysium, I assume they would use the most unlikely places we haven't thought about." Lechter said.
"True. Without the whereabouts of the generator, we're going have to delay the liberation." Claire agreed.
"But the problem is we don't have enough time as it is." Noel Seeker pointed it out. "Are there some leads we can find them before they launch some other attack?"
"We're trying to find them, but with the heavy encrypted... It's either going to be impossible or it might be too late." Tita replied.
"Man, this sucks." Natsu grumbled. "It would be nice if we can just break in with brute force."
"But this barrier might be almost indestructible. They've really prepared for everything." Gray sighed. "Not to mention those Soldots, and those mysterious Pokemon."
"Ah, that reminds me. You're all wondering about those Pokemon, aren't you?" Renne asked.
"Yeah... Wait, does that mean you know what they are?" Rean asked.
"We do actually." Florian nodded. "They're Paradox Pokemon."
"Paradox Pokemon?" Levi asked.
"Paradox Pokemon are Pokemon that are not of this era. In other worlds, they hail from both the ancient past and the distant future."
Everyone had an !? over their heads.
"Pokemon from both the ancient past and the future?!" Ragna asked in shock.
"Then that explains why they look completely different than the average Pokemon..." Joshua muttered.
"Pokemon that came from both past and future..." Emblem Joshua muttered.
"How do you guys know this?" Lucy asked
"It happened in Paldea." Penny explain.
"I'll explain." Arven sighed. "Those Ancient and Future Pokemon were brought by my Dad... and my aunt. Both of them were inspired about the ancient and Future Pokemon from the Scarlet and Violet Book that reveal details about those Pokemon. Realizing they're from different times, they got the idea of building a time machine which brought both Miraidon and Koriadon here. To this era."
"Both the professors use Terastal Energy: a form of energy with temporal properties and came from a Pokemon that was in my care... Terapagos." Florian chin in. "Terapagos has the ability to alter time through some capabilities: like bringing humans, Pokémon, and objects forward from other points in time, or from alternate timelines altogether. Back in Paldea, there was a phenomenon called Terastal phenomenon which can alter a Pokemon Types. Or even empowers them. It was revealed that Terapago is also responsible."
Florian sighed. "It's a long story but... the long-short version is that both the professors wanted Pokemons from different times to co-exist in the modern world. But both Pokemon of those timelines are crazy strong and they're quite savage too. Unlike Miraidon and Koraidon me and Renne have, they're pretty chill and behave like normal Pokemon. Although... it did had a trauma and it did spend time with the Professors and their AI selves before their deaths..."
"Yeah..." Arven muttered. "Anyway, after both my aunt and dad's death... their time machine keeps bringing Paradox Pokemon and inhabited in Area Zero of the region. Were they to get it, it would cause massive destruction. So me, My best buddies: Florian and Renne, Miss President and Penny put an end to this as Arceus transfer those Pokemon back to their original time."
The room was filled with silence from the information Florian and Arven explained.
"I see..." Rean close his eyes.
"I thought Dialga would be capable of manipulating time but wow..." Levi muttered.
"Paradox Pokemon... how fitting..." Kevin sighed. "So what are their names for these Pokemon?"
"Here, I'll bring it up." Penny taps a few buttons and then reveals hologram pictures of the Paradox Pokemon, their names, and Types.
"So that's their names..." Randy folds their arms.
"Some of them are fitting... But... how did the EDF get their hands on those Pokemon if the original time machine was shut down?" Tio asked. "Unless..."
"Another time machine was built." Alhaitham said.
"Wow. That would explains everything." Millium replied. "Looks like we got another time incident. I bet Dialga must be furious that someone is also meddling with time."
"You have no idea." Hoopa sighed.
"Still, now that we know what those Pokemon are and why they're crazy strong, the EDF... no... perhaps Elysium decided to build a time machine to bolster the EDF and the co-supreme leader's power." Sara said.
"And just like with Reinford Factory, they must have summon them somewhere else without notice." Lysithea remark.
"Guess now we can add that to another list of shutting down this time machine." Hubert sighed. "But just like the barriers, we don't know where they are."
A phone call was heard and Rean pull out his ARCUS Alpha.
"Professor Schmidt?" Rean asked.
"Put me on hologram speaker. I have news that I've discovered." Schmidt said as Rean press a few buttons
(BGM ended)
"Well, if it isn't Schmidt." Kokonoe folding her arms. "What brings an old bag like you here."
"Hmph. Something that would pique your interest, Kokonoe." Schmidt said. "It related to the barriers that surrounded Crossbell."
(Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes ost - On Thin Ice)
Everyone had an ! over their heads.
"Wait, you found out about the barrier?" Venti asked.
"Yes. I've discovered it while I was looking into that machine in the Castle of Mirrors." Schmidt answered. "It was heavily encrypted but I was able to learn that the barrier that is being produced by different forms of energy. The energy in question seems to be related to the elements like fire. Other elements like water, electricity. However, these other elements are unknown but they were able to combine them into a form of energy that surpasses orbal energy. Something similar to magic."
"Whoa, really?" Elliot gasped.
"Something similar to magic?" Annette wondered.
Edelgard hummed. "Hmm... Whatever this energy it, it seems they were able to harness their power. If only we know what that energy is."
"So can you tell us about these energy?" Yuri asked
"From the machine, I've learn that there are six energy generators that responsible for the barrier. They're scattered throughout the world. And not in Crossbell." Schmidt answered
"Not in Crossbell?" Makoto Niijima rub her chin. "Then that means the energy is outside of Crossbell bouders."
"Damn, if that was the case, then that would explain why it isn't within Crossell." Randy muttered.
"So, do you know where the generators are located, Professor?" Aoi asked
"Yes. I was able to decode that three barriers are produce in three different areas that is outside the Zemuria Continent. You'll find this very interesting. One generator located in the Mushroom Kingdom."
Everyone had an !? over their heads.
"Mama mia! What?!" Mario gasped.
"The Mushroom Kingdom is one of the generators is located?!" Luigi asked.
"Not just the Mushroom Kingdom, but the Koopa Kingdom and that Pokemon Region Paldea." Schmidt said
Everyone had an !? over their heads.
"WHAT?!" Bowser got up from his chair, glaring. "Those EDF trespass on MY KINGDOM!?"
"And there's even one in Paldea?" Nemona gasp. "¡Oh, no! ¡No bajo mi supervisión!(Not on my watch!)"
"Does anyone know what she just said?" Noel asked.
"I think something about not on her watch." Renne answered. "Still, I don't like the idea of the EDF infiltrating all three places as they did with Erebonia and Crossbell."
"Indeed. What's more, we are in a time limit. Since there are six generators, we should split into three teams to shut them down."
"I agree. If we can shut them down, we can also learn more about where the next generators will be." Lloyd agreed.
"Right. In that case, leave the Mushroom Kingdom to me." Rean said. "Princess, since you know all over the Mushroom Kingdom, I'm sure you know some ideas that the EDF may be using as a base of operation?"
Peach hummed. "Yes. But I need to look into it with Toadsworth when we get back."
"Then Your Majesty." Lloyd turn to Bowser. "Then with your permission, can I accompany you on exploring the Koopa Kingdom?"
"Hmph. Fine. The more help to rid them and shut down this barrier, the better. You better not slow me down, Detective." Bowser said
"Thank you."
"Then it seems my team and I will be heading to Paldea." Rufus said.
"Ooh! This will be our first time going out of the continent!" Nadia cheered. "What's more, we can find some other Pokemon too!"
"Paldea is where Florian and the others are so we can rely on them." Swin nodded.
"I wonder what Paldea will be like." Lapis wondered
"Oh, you'll find out." Florian chuckled.
"Then it seems we know what to do with the barriers." Jingliu said. "Perhaps we should ask the locals for anything unusual that's been happening to all of those three places."
"I'll contact the Academy Director, maybe he'll know something." Florian replied.
"That remains me..." Levi looking at Jingliu. "I don't think we even met before. So who are you?"
"Ah, yes." Jingliu let out a small chuckle. "This is the first time meeting everyone here. I apologize for my late introduction. My name is Jingliu."
Joshua gasped. "Wait... as in the Ice Blademaster!?"
"Wait, you know her Joshua?" Estelle asked.
"How could I not? Jingliu. The Ice Blademaster. She was renowned as one of the strongest Swordswoman in Calvard, known for her elegant and swordplay, theme for ice. She's the formal head of The Xianzhou Luofu of Calvard, and a highly respected woman."
"The Xianzhou Luofu is an organization that's on par with Heiyue but as their counterpart." Kazuha chin in. "She's also one of the people who helped bring down the D.G Cult."
"Whoa, what?!" Estelle gasped
"But last I've heard, you died during the extermination."
"In a sense. I did "died". You can think of me as a walking corpse. I'm nothing more than a mere wanderer." Jingliu said. "I've been traveling through Zemuria and even outside its borders. But now I'm a traveling companion to the White Void as we made our way here. I've heard many tales involving some of you." She turn to Rean. "The most interesting was the tales of how Ka-fai last student who was able to defeat the Ebon Knight and end Erebonia's curse. No doubt Ka-fai is pleased with you, Young Divine Blade."
Rean gasped. "You know my master."
"Ka-fai and I are acquainted, yes. He was the one who saved me when I left the Luofu. He was bragging to me about the potential of his last student compare to Cassius and Arios."
"I-I'm sure he was just joking..."
"No need to be modest, Rean." Arios smiled.
"It's an honor to meet you at last, Rean Schwarzer. You've come far to reach the level of Divine Blade. What's more, you overcome many trails throughout your journey with your friends and allies. I'm sure you're wondering where your master is, aren't you?"
"Ehehe... It's that obvious, huh?" Rean asked
"Like an open book. But to answer your question, I do not know. The last time I saw him was in the Mushroom Kingdom. I'm sure he elsewhere now."
"I see..."
"Speaking off introduction, we should also bring out our two other allies." Mickey said.
"Yep! I'm going next!" Oswald said. "Hiya everyone! Names Oswald the Lucky Rabbit! I'm an ol' pal to Mickey here. I live in the world called the Wasteland and I rule there as its King. I'm here because some thief broke into Yen Sid workshop and stole his magic brush. But now we got it back. I'll still be here helping you guys."
"Nice to meet you, Oswald!" Mario smiled.
"So how did you and Mickey meet up?" Daisy asked
"Well, why don't you ask this guy?" Oswald pointed at Mickey.
"Ahaha... ha..." Mickey scratched his head sheepishly. "This was before I became a Keyblade Master. I was missing around in Master Yen Sid's tool, I ended up creating a monster called Blot and dropping the bottle of Thinner into the Wasteland... causing a huge mess... It wasn't my proudest moments, I'll admit."
"Yeah. You nearly ruin my kingdom and kill everyone too, had it not been for you." Oswald glared but shrugged with a smile. "But all is forgiven."
"Damn, Mickey, I never knew that side of you." Chrom said.
"And now we got one last person to introduce." Ragna turning to Noel Vermillion.
"Right." Noel Vermillion nodded her head as she place her hand to her chest. "Izanami... you can come out now."
(BGM ended)
Noel Vermillion close her eyes as her hair change to purple, then open them and reveal her red eyes.
"Hehehe. My, I remember so many familiar faces... Especually, you, Hazama."
(Xenoblade Chronicle ost - Zanza the Divine)
"Oh my..." Hazama blinked.
Kokonoe slam her hand to the desk."ARE YOU FUCKEN KIDDING ME!?"
"YOU!" Hakumen readied his Odachi.
"Whoa!" Towa exclaimed.
"Whoa, we got hostility here!" Penny exclaimed.
"I assume you know each other through hostility?" Neve asked.
"Hades: Izanami..." Rachel cloak herself in a red aura as she glared. "Ragna, Noel, what is the meaning of this?"
"Hey, I'm just as shocked as the rest of you when she came back." Ragna scratching his hair. "Anyway, to those who don't know she—"
"Hades: Izanami! You are the Drive of the Master Unit who seeks to bring death to the world! You bring death and despair! And now you are back to bring death to this world?!" Hakumen yelled.
Izanami let out a small mocking laugh. "Ah, yes. The Susanno Unit... As well as the formal Observer, and Kokonoe. It has been some time when your "heroine" absorbed me. Worry not, I have no interest in bringing death to this world. The Origin has influenced me not to harm this world."
"Lies. Nothing but lies from sprout from you mouth." Rachel glared
"I can't say I saw this coming." Palutena sighed. "To those who don't know, Izanami here is the manifestation of death. As death incarnation, she couldn't be killed so easily. Back in Ragna's world, she was one of the most dangerous opponents they've face. What's more, she along with Terumi and Relius Clover were the world's greatest enemy. Many dark events was caused by them."
"Yeah. My world is complicated when it comes to time. It's governed by a God-like object called the Master Unit that can influence and alter the time of the world." Ragna sighed
"Time has been regretted multiple times. Think of it as formatting your system on your computer and using a backup system of your project." Jin explained. "We call this a continuum shift where our world was resetting back in time to change everything. Our lives were changed over and over again."
"Holy Arceus..." Arven grimaced.
"Damn, you guys have been through a lot..." Futaba muttered
"I'll say." Silver muttered
"But why has Izanami ahs returned? She was absorbed by Noel." Rachel holding her arms.
"More importantly, how do we destroy her this time?" Kokonoe growled
"You can't destroy her because she's part of Noel, remember." Ragna sighed. "Anyway, the reason why's she back was because of that Divine Knight."
"Zoa Gilstein is its name." Zhognli fold his arms. "And its Awakener must be that other Rean we encounter back in the Castle of Mirror."
"Speaking of him, can we also talk about him?" Levi asked
(BGM ended)
(Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories ost - Thirteenth Discretion)
"I'm honestly disturbed by what Neve said... about him being "real" compared to the fakes." Levi muttered. "And yet... we haven't seen a spark on him when he and Rean duel. And if it turns out he wasn't a fake but a real being..."
"Then we're dealing with an unknown foe who bears my face." Rean said. "During my duel with him, I've sensed this intense level of bloodlust from him. And it was all directed at me. Almost like he hates me and wants me dead."
"Indeed. His behavior is unlike how Rean would speak either." Laura fold her arms. "Every word he spoke was filled with malice. As if he is not Rean but someone else entirely who bears his resemblance."
"Especially his laugh..." Rean grimaced. "And spilling Levi's blood..." He clench his fist. "All his intention was filled with malice..."
"Let's not forget the power he used during the fight, and his presence. It was both ominous and dreadful. I doubt a fake would even replica something so real." Aqua muttered
"I'm curious about this other Rean and who is he." Neve fold his arms. "But we're also going to discuss about him being the administer to Elysium, correct?"
"If he is, then now we know what they look like." Lapis said. "But the big question is why is he using Elysum to cause this chaos?"
"Those are all good questions." Zhongli rub his chin. "I'm also curious about his power. His powers frighten me. It reminded me of a frightening power that I know and witnessed. Whoever he is. He's very dangerous." He turn to Izanami. "And I assume it was his presence that brought you to "Awakened".
Izanami nodded her head. "You are correct. His existence causes a reaction that allows me to manifest."
"Then he's also the presence that happened in Nord who made his way to Crossbell." Xiao hummed.
"He also summons that Divine Knight: Zoa Gilstein who is the Sept-Terrion of Steel." Zhongli added.
"Hey guys." Lea called them out. "I'm not sure if you've noticed but... have you guys seen how those two baddies, Mephiles and Xemnas respond to him?"
"Oh yeah, now that you mention it." Shez rub his chin. "Both of them were bowing to them like how a servent bows to his master..."
"I know Xemnas, and I doubt he would bow to anyone like that. At least I think so."
"True..." Mickey hummed. "Then... could he really be the mastermind behind it all? And Elysium's administrator?"
Everyone had a moment of silent.
"I think he is." Makoto Yuki said. "The more I hear about him... the more likely he's the one responsible for the co-supreme leaders actions. What he did to Mainz..."
"And the actions of the EDF, their actions in Nord, in Heimdallr..." Noel grimaced.
"Then I assume we're all in agreement then? That this other Rean may be the mastermind behind it all?" Raven asked
"Honestly... I think he is." Rean spoked. "Every word he said... all of it was malice. And we let him get away... But... I want to know is why is he doing all of this. Who is he? What does he mean by "this" world."
"There are a lot of questions involving that man..." Mona said. "But... I'm afraid we can only find out once we hear the man himself. But... Let's not forget that Elysium is in the center of all of it."
"Mona's right. We need to defeat Elysium and its administrator." Kamek said. "And our first task to defeat Elysium is to shut down the barriers, liberate Crossbell and find where Elysium is hiding."
"Indeed." Rufus nodded. "Now let's begin discussion, sha—"
(BGM ended)
A phone ring, calling someone as everyone hear.
"Oh." Zhongli pull out his ARCUS Alpha. "Ah, Acheron."
(Honkai Star Rail ost - Timeline · Astral Express)
"Hello, sir. I apologize for the lateness. But I have news to report involving the assignment."
"Ah. Perfect timing them. You've been awhile. I'll let Ei and the others know." Zhongli said.
"Brother, who are you talking too?" Levi asked
"I'm talking to Acheron. Actually, this may be wise to let you all in then. A moment." Zhongli said as he tap a few buttons as he leaves the room.
"Ah, Acheron, you've return." Ei said as Miko, Nahida, Furina and Mavuika enter the call.
"How did it go?" Nahida answered.
"Wait, before you report, Acheron. Ei, Nahida, Furina, Mavuika. We've finally have some news to report involving the situation. But we must let Levi and his friends know."
"What?" Furina gasped. "Morax, do you understand what you are saying?!"
"We finally found the information we needed. And it's thanks to them we found our culprit."
"They did?" Mavuika asked in surprised
"Is that so?" Miko hummed.
"Zhongli... Are you certain?" Ei asked.
"You know full well we can trust them to keep this secret between us." Zhongli said
"Very well."
Zhongli then return to the group. "I apologize, everyone. I have something else to report. Given that you help aid in our investigation, we will reward you with knowledge."
"Huh? What were you investigating, Mr. Zhongli?" Lloyd asked
"It's related to the Spirit Veins and... our possible "guest". I'll explain. But first, an introduction is in order." Zhongli said as he press the button and then reveal a hologram of Acheron, Ei, Miko, Furina, Mavuika, Nahida, Caelus, Stelle, Dan Heng, A woman, Himoko, Welts, and March 7th.
"Whoa, that's a whole lot of people!" Caelus spoked.
"Wait, is that Acheron chick and Sullivan's siblings?" Ash asked.
"There's also Miko and... some people we don't know yet." Musse said.
"Everyone, allow me to introduce you to an organization that serve under me and my family. The Astral Express." Zhongli said
"The Astral Express?" Kurt asked
"Allow me to explain." Ei spoked. "The Astral Express is a group that me and my siblings organization to explores other worlds after the Tabuu incident. Think of them as our secret service."
"An Organization that explore worlds?" Emma asked in surprised.
"Wait, why did you make an organization like that?" Celine asked.
"Actually. I'm the one who created the Astral Express." Acheron said. "The reason for it was to explore other worlds, for exploring reasons, and also to protect the world of Zemuria... or rather... our universe. The idea was approved by Lord Zhongli and his siblings. Oh. But to those who haven't met me. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Acheron. I'm the head of the Astral Express, a swordswoman who was trained by Ei, and Levi's bodyguard."
Randy turning to Levi with a deadpan look. "Okay, Levi, what the hell?"
"Me?" Levi pointed at himself as he blinked and look confused.
"Not only do you have a smoking hot bodyguard who looks like your sister, but you even have some hot siblings other than Ei that you didn't tell me?!"
Everyone sweatdrop.
"Got damn it, Randy." Lloyd sighed.
"Don't make me tell Mireille about this." Tio said with a deadpan look.
"And for the record. I don't need a bodyguard. My siblings are just overprotective of me..." Levi sighed.
"Although to be honest. She kinda look like Ei." Elliot said.
"Okay, first off, we look NOTHING alike." Ei grumbled. "Second, I don't know why she looks almost like me but anyone can look like someone."
"Yes, keep telling yourself that." Miko grinned. "After all, your voices in the Japanese version are the same. She practically you in another universe."
"Miko I swear to me if you don't shut up, I will literally kill you."
"Temper, temper."
"Aaaaugh!" Ei frustratedly growled, causing everyone to sweatdrop.
"Anyway, Caelus, you introduce yourself." Acheron said
"Me?" Caelus pointed at himself. "Well, all right. Hiya everyone! I'm Caelus Blaze. I'm a member of the Astral Express. I'm your favorite Galactic Baseballer!"
"First, what kind of introduction is that?" March giving him a deadpan look. "Second, how could you be their favorite if you haven't even met them?"
"It's the thought that counts."
"Bro, if I had heard anything stupid that comes out of you, it's one of the things." Stelle sighed.
"A bit blunt but yep!" March said
"Besides, you should say, "Hey, 'y'all! Name Caelus Blaze! Your favorite neighborhood Galatic Baseballer who can sent your enemies flying, player of trash and a guy who really like to smash some heads!"
"That's even worse!"
"Hahaha! Oh, that does sound something I should say." Caelus laughed.
"Please don't Caelus." Dan Heng sighed. "In any event, Stelle, you're up next."
"All right." She winked. "Hi. I'm Stelle Blaze. I'm this goofball twin sister. Nice to meet you all. March, your up."
"Okay! Hiya! I'm March 7th! I'm a loving ordinary girl who loves taking pictures, cute things, and making friends!" March introduce
"Um... why are you name the day in the calender?" Daisy asked
"Ah. That's because I lost my memories of my idenity. I don't know who I am, just remember that I was born in March."
"Oh..." Daisy grimaced. "Sorry about that girlfriend."
"Aww, it's okay. Besides, call me March."
"Hello. I am Dan Heng. Like my colleagues, I am also a member of the Astral Express. I serve as the archivist of the Express, also as its guard." Dan Heng said
'Ooh. he's hot.' Carmine thought as she blushed happily.
"He's also my boyfriend, so back off, ladies." Caelus smirked.
"OH COME ON!" Carmine yelled
"Did you really have to tell them that?" Dan Heng asked.
"No. Just want to make it clear to them." Caelus chuckled.
Himeko giggled. "Oh, but it's never a dull moment with you. Now then, I shall introduce myself. My name is Himeko. I'm the Astral Express Navatator. Before I became part of the astral express, I was a scientist so I know my way around technology."
"And lastly, my name is Welt Yang. I'm a member of the Astral Express." Welt introduce himself.
"Ooh, so your last name is Yang like my sister Yang!" Ruby remark.
"Aww yeah! We got another—"
"Yang, if you dare finish that sentence with your pun, I swear I will drown you." Noel threaten.
"—member with the Yang!"
Everyone groaned.
"I warned you." Noel channeling his water powers.
"Noel..." Emblem Arianrhod shook her head.
"Leaving a horrible pum or whatever that was... My name is Nahida for those who don't know me." Nahida spoked. "Now, I also brought in someone. Swan, can you introduce yourself?"
"Of course, Lady Nahida." The woman spoked. "Hello, everyone. You can call me Black Swan. I serve Lady Nahida as a... collector, shall we say. This is our first time meeting, but I'm familiar with almost every one of you here. Like for example, Lloyd Banning, our hero of Crossbell. Rean Schwarzer, the hero of Erebonia, Ka-fai's final pupil of the Eight Leave One Blade School, and Awakener to the Ashen Knight Valimar. Estelle Bright, King Bowser Koopa, Luigi Mario, Emma Millstein, Isola's daughter and Vita's mentor."
Emma gasped. "How do you know my Mother's name?"
"As I said, I'm somewhat a collector. But I'm in no position to reveal that information. I'm not a member of the Astral Express, but I am here by Lady Nahida's orders to aid in the investigation."
"An investigation?" Peach asked.
(BGM ended)
"Allow me to explain." Zhongli said.
(Metroid Prime 3: Corruption ost - Ambience)
"This is related to those felt it, but... an abnormal presence has entered this world. This presence can be helped by those who were trained to sense the laws of nature like deities or specially trained warriors, mages. Me, my Siblings, Palutena, Master, Crazy Hand, Rean, and other Fighters of Smash Bros felt this presence that appeared so suddenly, and then vanished without a trace. We've been investigating what this presence was... because this presence causes fear in our hearts."
"It appeared around... last October 3 if I recall. At first, I thought I imagined it since it didn't show itself for awhile." Palutina said
"However, something unexpected happened. I'm sure you're all familiar with the Sombron Incident?" Nahida asked.
"Yeah, we know about it. It has something to do with Sombron?" Mario asked
"So far we don't know if it was a coincidence or not. However, someone has infiltrated my home and stole something that belongs to me and my siblings. I'm not sure how they discovered it, but they tainted... a property of ours with a dark familiar power to us. It's also where Levi and the others were imprisoned."
"Nahida, you can tell them. But I ask you all to swear secrecy. No one outside this room must be aware of it. Not even organizations like the Enforcers work with." Zhongli said
"That's gonna be a big awkward but I'll try my best." Tartaglia said.
'Remember to remove their memories...' Nahida thought. "Very well. This is one of Zemuria's greatest secrets involving the Spirit Veins. As you all know, Spirit Veins, Septium Veins, and Dragon Veins are all the same concept of the world where Septium is from. And that the Septium Veins is a supernatural force that has existed since ancient times. But there is a secret to that. The Septium Veins are actually roots belonging to a tree called Irmensul."
"Irmensul?" Marnie asked.
"Irmensul is known as the Tree of Knowledge. It recorded everything throughout Zemuria. The Septium Veins are roots from that very tree."
Those who don't know had an ?! over their heads.
"Whaaaaaaat?!" Victor gasped.
"Indeed." Renne nodded. "We were also shocked as some of you about this knowledge. The Spirit Veins that was producing sepiths of the seven elements of the world, all came from Irmensul. The Orbal Energy that was extracted from the Septiums came from this very tree."
"For realizes?!" Nadia gasped.
"All the orbal energy came from this tree?" Swin ask in shock.
"This is... unbelievable..." Ries muttered.
"Yeah. I never knew this knowledge. Wait, does the Pope know about the origin of the Septium Veins?" Kevin asked
"No." Aether answered. "The Pope wasn't aware or anyone else except for two certain dominions who earn our trust with this secret. And we appreciate that you don't reveal it either."
"Wait, that's a big if... but... what do you mean Irmensul is your property?"
"That's something you don't need to know. But we can say is that Irmensul belongs to us." Ei said.
"Irmensul..." Lapis closed her eyes.
"Regarding the reveal of Irmensul. Someone who discovered Irmensul stole something from us and tainted it with their dark powers that imprison Levi and the others. Whoever they are is someone with immense power. It took me days to cleanse Irmensul and free Levi and the others."
"We've been investigating the culprit who has been using the spirit veins for nefarious means." Furina said. "Oh, for those who don't know me, I am Furina. Anyway, after the incident with Sombron, the Septium Veins have begone activate for awhile without our notice. This entity somehow managed to mask the use of the Spirit Veins. From our investigation, they've been extracting mammoth portions of irons as well as using for whatever uses related to it."
"So THAT'S where the irons come from..." Alisa muttered.
"Not just that. But Nahida was able to identify a dark power that was used to taint Irmensul. The very name of it causes of fear..." Mavuika muttered. "With that said, Acheron, since you and the Astral Express are here, what is the report?"
(BGM ended)
"It's... Grim news..." Acheron muttered. "The Chaos Heart... is still within the Realm of Darkness."
The Archeons gasped in horror as they had ! over their heads.
(Legend of Zelda: The Twilight Princess ost - Light and Darkness)
"What did you say!?" Zhognli yelled.
"The... Chaos Heart?" Levi shivered.
"Levi, you okay?" Rean holding Levi's hand.
"Y-Yeah... But that name..."
"Wait, what is the Chaos Heart?" Machias asked.
"The Chaos Heart... is Kingdom Heart's counterpart." Zhongli answered.
"What?!" Mickey gasped.
"Hmm... Ah, wait a minute!" Goofy said. "I think I remember something. Didn't Levi's Father mention something about creating the Chaos Heart?"
Levi gasped.
"But Kingdom Hearts aside, I also created its counterpart. The Chaos Heart."
"That's right... Liam did say something like that back in the Empytreal Fortress!" Rean said.
"Oh yeah, I forgot!" Elliot said
"Father said that?" Zhongli asked in surprised
"He did... but we kinda forgot." Venti admit as he scratch his hair. "But anyway, what about the Chaos Heart?"
"Oh right, you weren't there at the meeting but..." Furina said
"First, allow me to explain about the Chaos Heart. The Chaos Heart is a primordial force created by our Father. It the counterpart of Kingdom Hearts. As some of you are aware: Kingdom Hearts is a primordial force of creation. The Primordial Light rivals Levi's powers of light. The heart of all worlds, all life, and is imbued by our father's power and wisdom. Whoever can control Kingdom Hearts is granted a god-like power to rewrite the entire universe." Nahida explained.
"But it has its counterpart known as the Chaos Heart. It is a destruction incarnation. The Primordial Darkness. It can consume and destroy worlds, and dimensions, all within existence and reality, even time and space, reducing them into nothingness..."
Everyone felt a cold, chill down their spine about information about the Chaos Heart.
"It can consume time and space... worlds and life itself..." Rean gulped.
"You got to be shitting me..." Ash muttered.
'To think such a power can exist...' Rufus thought.
'How was I not aware of this...?' Neve thought
"Just like Kingdom Hearts, it has its own power of creation... but seeing its destruction power is frightening... since it can even be used throughout multiple universes. and that very power is what tainted Irmensul. Meaning the dark power came from the Chaos Heart." Nahida explained.
Everyone except Zhongli had !? over their heads.
"No way..." Millium turn pale.
"..." Claire shivered.
"B-But... how is that possible?! Acheron said that the Chaos Heart is still within the realm of darkness, right!?" Venti asked as he turn pale
"Yes. We saw it from our very eyes that the Chaos Heart is still within the realm of darkness." Acheorn said
"The Chaos Heart was just... sitting there. You know, spinning around in the air. It was there." Caelus chin in.
"But how is that possible?" Mickey asked. "If Irmensul was tainted by the Chaos Heart... how is it possible for it tainted if it never left?"
"A fine question, King Mickey." Black Swan said. "Never have we encounter this problem before. But it is possible that someone must have channel the Chaos Hearts power. I'm not sure how though. It can't be denied that Irmensul was tainted by the Chaos Heart. Which means whoever is responsible has the power of the Chaos Heart."
"Then..." Zhongli grit his teeth. "This other Rean... The power that he used back in the Castle of Mirror... There's no doubt about that it was the power of the Chaos Heart he wields... but who he is? How did he obtain that power?"
"Other Rean?" Miko asked. "What are you talking about?"
"I'll explain..." Zhongli said
One explanation later...
"An evil doppelganger of Rean who wields the power of the Chaos Heart? How is this possible?" Furina shivered.
"I don't know... but... this is a serious problem that puts everyone in danger." Zhongli stated.
"You're right. We need to find this Rean and question him." Ei agreed. "Thank you all for telling us this... Is there anything else?"
"Yeah. I think I know what was stolen from Irmensul." Venti said. "Nahida... by any chance... was it Elysium?"
(BGM ended)
"Elysium..." Nahida close her eyes. "Yes... That's right."
(Trails into Reverie ost - Lapis)
Everyone had an !? over their heads.
"Elysium is the name of Singularity that was born in Irmensul. When I returned to my domain, I've noticed that Irmensul had given life to a Singularity name Elysium. I observe Elysium's capability for some time, and I inform Zhongli and the others as we observe its behavior. We even watch it having a conversation with Ian Grimwood as it support humanity and observe. So we leave it alone. Why do you ask?" Nahida asked
"Wait.." Lapis got up from her hair. "Irmensul... was given birth by Irmensul...?"
"Yes. Why are you?"
"This is Lapis Rosenberg. She's the formal administrator of Elysium." Neve answered
"What?" Nahida gasped as she sign off... and then appeared in her Adult form next to Zhongli.
Nahida's adult form is Greater Lord Rukkhadevata,
"Whoa! Is that you, sister?" Levi asked.
"Yes. This is my true form." Nahida giggled as she approached Lapis and knee down.
"Huh...?" Lapis blinked as Nahida stare at her.
"It really is you..." Nahida smiled and then petted Lapis gentle. "Elysium's true administrator... Irmensul was me and my siblings creation. We watch you evolve in supporting humanity. It good to see that you are okay. And we're happy that we watch you support humanity in the shadows Young One. Since Irmensul was our creation, it kinda means that you're our daughter."
"Whaaaaaaat?!" Lapis exclaimed. "I'm your child?!"
"Well if you think about it, Irmensul is our creation. Which means you are also our creation. We watch over you grow into a fine persona. The name Lapis suits you you dear. I wanted to have a chat with you... but I don't know when... I'm guessing this is confusing, doesn't it?"
"It does, yes. I remember being created but... Never did I imagine that... I was created by... your creation."
"Life is full of surprises." Nahida smiled. "But it's good to see that you are well and okay."
"That's awsome, LP! You found your mommy!" Nadia cheered.
"Wait, I'm confused." Swin said. "If Irmensul was created by you and the Spirit Veins... then... are you some entity?"
Nahida got up. "That's right. I'm a Titan. A powerful god."
Everyone who doesn't know jawdropped.
"YOU'RE A GODDESS?!" Kevin got up from his chair and look completely shocked.
Nahida nodded. "That's right. Nahida is a name that I use to disguise myself and interact with mortals. I was once a god of this before I left it behind and gave it to Aidios. My siblings, Zhongli and Levi are also once gods of the old world."
Kevin was there speechless.
"Oh my..." Lloyd was speechless.
"Wait... You're a GOD Levi!?" Estelle exclaimed.
Levi scratch his cheek. "Yeah. I'm also a Titan. One of the gods of the old world. It's a long... story."
"And... this is all true...?" Ries asked as she turn pale.
"It is." Gaius nodded his head.
"Okay... this information I never knew." Wazy admit.
"Oh Aidios..." Tios said
"Oh, Goddess..." Kevin shivered. "I'm in the presence of not just the Goddess of Light... but... also... this beautiful goddess in front of me! Oh Aidios... Oh Aidios! I-I think I'm gonna pass out!"
'So Sullvain was a God this whole time... That explains his powers...' Rufus thought.
"I can't believe we are in presence of gods..." Nadia said
"This... This is just too much..." Swin muttered.
"Everyone, to those who are aware of our secrets... may I ask that you never speak of this to anyone?" Nahida asked. "I rather not let the whole world know about us being the gods of the old world. Because you were to tell those outside, know that I will cast a divine spell that will cause divine retribution."
"Y-Yes Ma'am!" Kevin clapped his hands.
"You're... my Mommy?" Lapis looking at Nahida.
Nahida nodded with a warm smile "Of course... if you like that."
"Hehe... Wow! It's nice to meet you, Mommy!"
"Hehe. It's nice to meet you in person too, Lapis." Nahida smiled. "I would like for you to meet your uncle and your other parents here. But we can focus on that after we finish this meeting."
"Okay!" Lapis nodded
Nahida clear her throat. "Now then. Everyone, we all know what to do right?
"Yes." Zhongli nodded. "Our first objection is to shut down the generators that activated the barrier. After that, we will liberate Crossbell and find the false administrator who is using it to cause this chaos. I am unhappy with how they stole Elysium from us and used it for evil deeds. They will not escape our punishment."
"Yeah. They will regret making us their enemy." Levi agreed.
"Right. My team will head to the Mushroom Kingdom. Lloyd's team will head to the Koopa Kingdom, and Rufus's team will head to Paldea to search for the generators and shut them down."
"All right! Then we can come up with a way to take Crossbell back." Florian smirked.
"Yeah!" Nemoma smirked. "I'll call the director and let him know of our return."
"All right, then we have our objection. Let's hope we can find them soon and shut them down."
"While we're at it. Some of us will also be looking into that device in the Tower of Mirrors and see if we can find out where more of the other generators are located at." Kokonoe added.
"Right, so—"
(BGM ended)
"Oh hey, Director." Nemona was in the call with Clavell said. "Listen, me—huh?" She blinked. "Director, what's wrong? Yes... Florian and the others are with me. You want me to put on speaker? Okay."
Nemona press a button and then a hologram screen of Clavell appeared.
(Trails into Reverie ost - Nightmare to Revive)
"Ah, Master Florian! Miss Bright! Penny, Arven and Miss Nemona! Thank Arceus I've finally reached you!" Clavell sigh of relief
"Huh? Director, what is with the sudden trouble look?" Arven asked
"Did something happened?" Penny asked
"Yes. Something horrible has happened in Paldea... no... Not just Paldea... but all of the Pokemon region!" Clavell replied
Everyone had an ! over their heads.
"Huh? What do you mean by that?" Victor asked
"Wait, who are your... wait, no! Now isn't the time. I must inform the Chairwoman and the others at once! A moment." Clavell said as he press a few buttons on his end and came on screen was Greeta and Leon.
"Leon!?"
"Bro!?" Hop gasped
"La Primera?!" Nemona gasped
"Champion Florian. Champion Renne. Penny, Arven, Champion Nemona. And the rest of you. It good to know that all of you are well. You worried us when you were suddenly cut off. We fear something must have happened to you."
"Same for you Victor, Marnie, Hop, Bede. Where have you been?" Leon asked
"We were helping in Crossbell. Why? Did something happened?" Hop asked
"Yeah. Every Pokemon region is under attack by Tera Crystals everywhere."
Everyone had an !? over their heads.
"What did you say!?" Florian yelled.
"All of the Pokemon regions is under attack Tera Crystals?!" Marnie gasped.
"Wait, how?!" Bede asked
"This happened after Master Florian and the others went to Crossbell apparently. The Tera Crystals have suddenly begin invading. It being to spread out throughout Pladea... and it suddenly even spout throughout multiple regions at once!" Calvell said "Every Pokemon who was affected by Terastallization has gone berserk!"
"Tera Crystals have been spreading outside of Paldea?!" Arven asked
"And the Pokemon gone mad?" Bede asked
"And after we left?" Renne grits her teeth. "Something tells me that can't be a coincidence."
"Yeah. Pokemon who are Terastallize shouldn't have gone mad." Florian agreed.
"We don't know how or why Tera Crystals are sprouting all over every region, but it's putting everyone in danger. Humans and Pokemon alike." Leon said. "Every trainer, Gym Leaders and champions are all helping to suppress the situation. But it keeps getting worse and worse every day. Houses are trapped in crystals, Pokemon going beserk, nature itself becoming too dangerous... This is the first time all regions are facing a calmity like this..."
"No..." Hop muttered.
"But how could Tera crystals..." Florian then paused and than had an ! over his head. "Terapago...There could be only one Pokemon who can cause the Terastal phenomenon..."
"Then that means someone who stole Terapago from you is using him to cause all of the Pokemon region in danger." Renne growled.
"It may be the same culprit who attacked you!" Arven exclaimed.
"We need to head to Paldea!" Florian yelled
"That was the plan wasn't it?" Rufus asked.
"Then we wish you guys good luck. If you need help, let us know."
"We will!" Florian fist pump.
"Paldea..." Jingliu hummed. "It's been awhile since I visit there."
(BGM ended)
After the meeting...
Everyone begin to leave the War Room and begin to call it a night since it was a long day.
"Oh, Jingliu, a moment please." Noel spoke as she turn her head.
"Yes, Undine?" Jingliu asked.
"I would like to discuss with you something important. Can you come with me?"
"I suppose. But where?"
"It's a very private conversation but please, follow me." Noel said as he, Emblem Arianrhod move as Jingliu followed as Rachel and Es noticed.
"..." Rachel hummed.
Later with Noel and Jingliu...
"And here we are." Noel said as they arrived at area in Bowser's path.
"Noel, why did you guide me far from the castle?" Jingliu asked.
"It's because the meeting is private." Noel answered.
"Meeting?"
Noel turn his head. "You coming out, Campanella?"
"I'm coming." A voice said as Campanella teleported in. "Hello, Noel." He turn to see Jingliu with a surprise face. "Oh wow! It really is her..."
"I told you."
"You're the Fool of the society." Jingliu said.
"Oh, it's a pleasure to meet you, Jingliu." Campanella bow. "I've heard you were dead, but heard rumors that you've been traveling with the White Void Hakumen. Never did I expect you to be alive this whole time! It really fills me with delight."
"So you brought me here to meet the Fool?" Jingliu turning to Noel and Emblem Arianrhod.
"That's right." Noel nodded. "I told him about you awhile back."
"Campanella... are you here just to confirm Jingliu is alive?" Emblem Arianrhod asked.
"That's one of them, yes." Campanella answered. "The other..." He turn to Jingliu. "... is an invitation."
"An Invitation?" Jingliu asked. "Wait... don't tell me..."
Campanella smirked. "Jingliu. On behalf of the Grandmaster, we would like to invite you to join Ouroboros."
Unknown to them, Rachel and Es were listening in.
Meanwhile...
"RAAAAAAAAUAGH!" Chaos Rean stomping, scratching his hair and slamming his fist to the table. "I was so FUCKEN CLOSE! Rean's Schwarzer's life was in my hands! HANDS! Along with his wretches allies! I was so close to end them! But Rean... Reaaaaaaan! That fucken Artifact is to blame! It will rue the day—"
"Will you shut the fuck up, already?" A voice asked annoyed as Chaos Rean turn his head with a glare and see Terumi and Dimentio.
(Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valencia ost - The Decadent Flower)
"Terumi, you better choose your words carefully with me."
"Oh, quit your bitchin' you damn baby."
"Say that again." Chaos Rean's eyes glow.
Terumi looking unimpressed. "Wow. You know I'm starting to think you are just like a damn brat. With that mouth of yours."
"You dare insult me? I will kill you you little—"
Terumi then responded with a glare with a dark aura surround him.
"!" Chaos Rean flinched as he summon his Tachi of Chaos.
"Ooooh, what's this is? Little pretty Chaos threatening me?" Terumi giving a dark grin "You are the one who should watch that mouth of yours! Remember you are lucky I didn't show you who I truly am. Because you are gonna regret."
"What do you say?" Chaos Rean glared. "You mean Terumi isn't your true name?"
"Of course not."
"THEN TELL ME! WHO ARE YOU!"
"Hah." Terumi look away shockingly "Secret, you damn Brat."
"TERUIM YOU—" Chaos Rean grit his teeth in anger.
"Now, now, both of you." Dimentio got in between the two. "Let's not try to duke eac other out. You can play with each other once this is over."
"Tch." Chaos Rean grit his teeth and vanished his weapon.
"There we go. I see that everything didn't go according to plan with you?"
"Everything WAS going as planned. But the cursed Artifact just has to help strengthen those fools! Rean Schwarzer's life was in my hands, I was so damn close before those irritating pests keep getting in my way! Then... he used that damn Enlighten Spirit Unification! It can't even be possible for that pathetic power to triumph over me!"
"Oh, shut up. Whether you win or lose that battle, doesn't even matter when things are going well for you, does it not?" Terumi fold his arms. "That weapon your building is almost complete. It will be enough to wipe this world, no matter where they are. They'll be killed regardless."
"He is correct my son." Dimentio said
"I told you to not—" Chaos Rean then sighed. "Forget it. Whatever. Anyway, what's wrong with the both of you?"
"Well, I was taking care of a problem, but now old enemies of mine had to intervene. Now, that formal administrator is still on the loose." Terumi answered
"Ah, yes. That Rosenberg Doll." Dimentio grumbled. "I have every intention of ruining their little quest. But as for me. I fail on the assignment to exterminate the main force off the Crossbell Guardian Force. But the barriers has been sit all over Crossbell. So I doubt they'll make it to save their sad little city."
Chaos Rean scoffed. "So long as the weapons are complete, I couldn't care less if they liberate Crossbell. All that matters is that we kill them in one spot."
"Perhaps, but now I assume they plan to rid of the barrier." Dimentio said.
"Hah. Let them. If they can." Chaos Rean turn his head. "Why don't the two of you rest and we can begin our plan to exterminate them soon."
"Whatever." Terumi walk away.
"So Chaos. Do you remember about having that nice revenge on Rean and Lloyd Bannings? I've now want a little taste of wanting to have revenge on two individuals who now deserve it."
"Do you now?" Chaos Rean look at him.
"Indeed. I'm going to do a bit of research to come up with a good little revenge. Oh, but before that. Allow me to offer you some advance. It's best to control that temper. Things won't go well if you let in your anger take hold on you. As well as listening."
Chaos Rean scoffed. "Don't lecture me with advise."
"I'm only telling you this for your benefit, Chaos."
"I already got what I needed. Now." Chaos Rean turn to the terminal. "It's time I had that wretched Artifact destroyed before those fools will get more power."
Dimentio sighed. 'What am I going to do with him. My counterpart should have raised him better...' He rub his chin. 'It seems I have another role in this... Thank you other me...'
And the team-up is here! But now the heroes has got a generator to deal with. That's right everyone. There isn't just Act 4. But we're having another Act for all three teams to venture forth! Act 5, here we come!