Trails into Reverie: The Chaos of Babel

by mysteryfriend16

Crossbell has finally gained its independence. The SSS and all of Crossbell finally have their dreams come true. Suddenly, Rufus Albarea and the newly established Ebon Defense Force attacked and took over Crossbell once more. Three Heroes: Lloyd, Rean, and a mysterious masked man must work together to solve this crisis and free Crossbell together once more with friends all over.

49. Final: All Routes: Hope in Reverie

(Trails into Reverie ost - A Gears Named Fate)

"Hey, did you see the news? It was completely crazy!" One of the students was gossiping.

"I know! I didn't expect someone would build something so dangerous!"

"It destroys a whole fortress in Erebonia, right?"

"Well, Erebonia deserves it if you ask me. But... if that weapon unleashes to Calvard... no... the world..."

"Then... A-A-Are we safe?"

"That thing was made by that so-called so-supreme leader Rufus and Xehanort, right? That Rufus character is from Erebonia and he's taking the whole world hostage! He's a complete madman!"

A young blond girl with her Cutiefly staring at the window.

"Cutie..." Cutiefly said scared.

"It's okay Cutiefly." The blond girl comforts her Pokemon. "I'm scared too." She turns to the window. "Why is this happening... I haven't found my great grandfather's mementos yet either..."

---

Somewhere in Calvard...

"The Naval Fortress of Juno of Erebonia has been reduced to nothing as we see in this footage today. The government has taken high priority to respond to this action the co-supreme leader Rufus Albarea and Xehanort."

"I can't believe this..."

"Ugh! Just when it got worse for us! Why does Erebonian HAVE to do something evil like this?!" One of the citizens complained.

"This is exactly why Erebonia is evil damn it! That Rufus guy is going to kill us all!"

"B-But he also targets his own homeland too, right?"

"I mean he did destroy a fortress in Erebonia but... do you think he will target the whole world?"

"Augh! Are ALL Erebonians this INSANE?!"

In the Coffee shop was a young man, accompanied by two Pokmon: A Riolu and a Zoroa who were drinking Coffee.

"Damn..." The Young Man looking at the news on TV. "I know Erebonia is in tough shit right now... but I didn't expect it would be that dangerous on a whole level..."

"Ru." Riolu looks at the young man with Zoroa.

"Zo, zo!" Zoroa barked.

"You're worried too, huh? Can't say I blame you." The young man petted his two Pokemon and then turned to the TV with a pensive look.

---

In Calvard's Basel Institute of Science...

"Aidios above..." A Young man in silver hair wearing a lapcoat looking at the Retributive Tower. "I've never seen such... both outstanding and terrifying technology. I can't believe the co-supreme leaders made something like this before..." He rubs his chin. "*sigh* Erebonia's technology continues to surpass Calvard as always. Maybe even the Mushroom Kingdom and Atlas."

"Metaaang." Matang holding a broomstick approach him.

"You're worried too, huh?" He asked as he sighed. "I was really hoping to take my trip to the Mushroom Kingdom and visit Gadd Science, Incorporation. I've heard from many people that Professor E. Gadd is a true genius when it comes to AI technology. I was hoping I could ask him for his advice. Come to think of it... I heard he visited the Institute two years ago, right? I can't believe I missed that chance...*sighed* Aww, man."

---

In Orchis Tower of Crossbell...

"THIS IS UNBELIEVABLE!" Bowser slammed his fist to the table that nearly broke in half. "FIRST WE DEALT WITH THE FAKE RUFUS AND XEHANORT, THEIR STUPID EDF MEN AND NOW WE'RE FACING ANOTHER WORLD CRISIS ON OUR HANDS!"

"Your Nastiness, please calm down!" Kamek exclaimed

"HOW CAN I POSSIBLE COME DOWN AFTER ALL THAT WENT DOWN!?"

"Your Majesty, we all understand how you feel. But panicking isn't going to help us." Sonya said. "We all must remain calm."

"I agree Bowser. Please, calm yourself and we'll think of a way through this." Peach agreed.

Bowser sighed. "Fine."

"So commander, how's the situation with Crossbell after... that appeared." Diamant asked.

"The commotion in the city is starting to calm down to a degree. Garcia also helped us recover all the Zauber Soldots and transport them into the Geofront." Sonya answered

"The remaining members of the Ebon Defence Force all willingly surrounded themselves, too. However, there was property damage during the operation. There were casualties from both sides as well. We lost many brave men and women, even Pokemon from the Guardian and Police force." Sergei muttered. "The same can be said with the EDF."

"I'm very sorry for the loss of the families and friends who are related to the fallen..." Marth sadden. "But what about Ilya? Is she all right?"

"Ilya Platiere has been taken to the hospital in the Mushroom Kingdom since the EDF destroyed St. Ursula. She's exhausted but in no danger."

"Thank Aidios for that." Rixia sighed in relief.

"She's in good hands with Dr. Seiland, Dr. Toadley, and the others." Lloyd smiled.

"Speaking of the doctor, sounds like Mireeille's surgery was a success. It's a shame I can't see her yet, but at least I know she's all right." Randy said.

"You will soon. For now, We need to decide on our next move." Rean said.

"Who knew something like THAT would show up on Lake Elm." Juna muttered

"The Retributive Tower..." Altina closes her eyes and hands behind her back as they turn to the tower on the monitor.

"We've already seen it's capable enough to annihilate something the size of Juno Naval Fortress in an instant." Musse said

"From what me and the others can see, it powers itself through the spirit veins. This energy is amplified and reflected by combat shell satellites in the sky, which then direct them toward a desired target." Schmidt informed everyone.

"The technology to fire a beam of its strength with such precise accuracy is on the same scale as Dr. Eggman with his conquest from what I am told." Erika said. "I didn't expect that madman would create something like this hidden from us."

"No. I don't think this is Eggman's work." KeA shook her head. "This is the work of Elysium."

"The fortresses' troops were stationed elsewhere at the time of the attack, so by the grace of the Goddess, no lives were lost." Aurelia said in the call. "I'm more ashamed that my old castle could fall so easily."

"I don't think any fortress could have withstood a blast like that..." Kurt muttered

"The aim was to show its monstrous capabilities—and it served its purpose well." Rufus folds his arms. "You need only to look at our neighbors' reactions to see that—particularly Calvard's."

"Indeed..." Elie muttered

Lloyd turns to Madame Regina who is accompanied by Dr. Toadley. "You talked to their new president just earlier, didn't you, Madame Regina?"

"I have, yes." Regina nodded her head.

(BGM paused)

---

Flashback...

(Trails into Reverie ost - Invisible Hands in the Shadows)

It feels like just yesterday that we gathered to affirm Crossbell's independence." A man spoke in the call, revealing in the video call was not just him, but Carl, Peach, Bowser, Chrom, Byleth, Hisui E. Fiore, Xander, Ryoma, James Ironwood, Queen Bean, and Daisy. "The speed with which you liberated your city was nothing short of astonishing. The many hardships that Crossbellans have endured have molded them into a most hardy people indeed."

"We are hardly worthy of such praise." Madame Regina said. "I truly regret that we've been unable to bring this crisis to a conclusion faster, Mr. President."

"But it is good to have this line of communication open to us again." Carl said. "Now, I believe It would be wise to discuss how to address that new weapon of mass destruction—"

"As it happens, we have already begun preparing our response." Roy Gramheart interrupted. "We have readied enough troops to drawf even our great numbers from the war."

"I...I see..." Madame Regina grits her teeth a bit.

"Mr. President, surely you are of the extremely delicate position Crossfell finds itself in the present." Peach muttered. "If Erebonia or Calvard were to intervene with force, it would—"

"I am indeed aware."Roy Gramheart interrupted again. "But how else is a head of state to respond when his territory is threatened?"

Roy Gramheart plays a video of the Fake Rufus.

"The tower shall next 'rain judgment' on the Calard Repiblic's Baratier Air Base." Fake Rufus declared. "Its divine lightning will spare not one thing as it turns its frames to dust. You have until five o'clock this evening to reconsider your stance. I do hope you make the right decision."

"Our military's general headquarters will be the next target if we do not act. We have no choice. I'm quite surprised at how much Erebonia has dragged its heels in light of the losses it has recently suffered. Let alone the fact, they even went out of their way to attack the Mushroom Kingdom no less."

"President Gramheart, was that truly necessary to say?" James Ironwood asked, giving a stern look. "I can assure you that everyone understands how both you and Governor Regnitz feel about Erebonia... current circumstances. But it is not appreciated, let alone the right time and place to discuss Erebonia's path of healing. Let alone that the co-supreme leaders' actions were not done by—"

"It's quite all right, General Ironwood. I appreciate you standing up for my nation." Carl said

"Governor Regnitz..."

"Getting back to the matter at hand, I deeply regret the position your country has been placed in after a problem that erupted within our borders." Regina muttered. "But could you not give us a little more time to resolve this on our own? I assume you that we are not sitting idly by while your nation is threatened."

"And I believe you." Roy Gramheart said "I have it on good authority that many capable hands have gathered in Crossbell. But I would like to make our stance crystal clear. Refusing our gracious offer of support means you have also fortified support from the Imperial Army. And given what is at stake, when the deadline draws dangerously close, we will take actions as we see fit."

"President Gramheart!" Hisui gasped. "Surely you do not mean—"

"Yes." Regina muttered. "I fully understand that."

"Then all is well." Roy Gramheart smirked. "The Republican Army stands ready to aid you should you require it. I hope you will make the correct choice—and sooner rather than later, Madame Regina."

---

End of Flashback...

"The nerve of that man! Who does he think he is, acting all cocky with me!" Regina growled. "I don't care if he's Calvard's president, he got nerve making that arrogant look."

"And your anger toward that man is understandable." Ei folded her arms and nodded. "Roy Gramheart is nothing more than a devilish schemer, and untrustworthy man. The people of Calvard are truly blind to fall for that man's words."

"Careful Ei." Miko flips Ei's forehead. "Your racism is showing."

"I was not being racist!" Ei glared at Miko. "I don't have a problem with Calvard! Just that man Roy Gramheart!"

"Errr... what's up with Ei?" Levi turned to Zhongli.

"Well..." Zhongli scratched his cheek. "Roy Gramheart is a... man of talent. He's skilled in identifying threats and knows his way with politics. However, his positive standards hide a shadow. He's ambitious, but he's also not afraid to take bold risks. Such as severing treaties with allied nations and even vaguely threatening other nations into submissions. But..." He folds his arms. "I do agree with Ei. That man is not to be trusted. Gramheart's actions during the war were highly positive. Because of that, the citizens of Calvard see him as a respectful individual who works for his people. Far better than Rocksmith was."

"But now thanks to Erebonia compensation. His supporters grow stronger." Mavuika folds her arms. "He does care for Calvard and his people. A true sign of leadership. Still, behind that man's smile is a calculated mind. You would be wise to be careful with him."

"In any event. I'm completely frustrated right now." Furina muttered as she folded her arms. "Our concern was about Calvard who would use the Fake Rufus and Xehanort as an excuse to invade Crossbell. But that tower changes everything. I'm angry that the mastermind... no... that the other Rean would create that monstrous weapon and abuse the power of the Septium Veins to create this level of chaos."

"I agree with Furina." Nahida nodded in agreement. " It is understandably, the Calvardian government is acting rationally, but they know too little as everyone else here. But in a game of tactics, it's all about playing the right cards."

"Right." Dieter nodded in agreement. "Playing this card has no downsides for them."

"I highly doubt that even they have a grasp of the situation, they'll use it as an excuse to intervene and claim Crossbell as their own." Regina muttered. "I refuse to accept his Republic's help, including help the Empire. We're so close to finally having the independence we worked so hard for..."

"Yeah! You tell 'em, Madame Regina!" Juna fist pump.

"However... in professionalism... I'm afraid the lives of the entire world are at stake. Crossbell has no choice but to accept not just the Republic and the Empire... but the other help too."

"N-No!"

"Madame Regina..." Elie muttered.

"I understand Madame Regina's situation. And if I'm being honest... I really hate that Crossbell lost its independence after so hard. But Crossbell is making an impossible choice." Yuri told them. "Their Independence and forsake all the lives of the world... or accept the aid from its neighbors and lose their independence completely."

"Let's also add that Calvard also has an advantage to this too." Neve added. "Their territory is their next target."

"As does knowing that, while it is an important military base, it can be rebuilt with ease, unlike Juno." Claire added. "The deadline is also generous enough to give time to evacuate civilians in the vicinity of the blast. I'm sure preparations are already underway."

"All that to say that even if the worst should happen, Calvard will walk away with minimal damage at most." Eula pointed out.

"Lucky sons of bitches." Ash muttered

"And here we were thinking things would get easier after that sly old fox they had before 23 was out of the picture." Lechter muttered.

"However, the delay can turn in our favor." Robin pointed out. "It might even be possible for us to storm the tower and put an end to this chaos."

"I'll take half a day more over nothing at all." Randy said.

"I wouldn't bust out the champagne over that just yet." Sergei comment.

"Agreed. There are reports that there are far fewer Zauber Soldots stationed in the city now compared to when it was first occupied." Sonya told them.

"And the other of those horrible contraptions must be defending that tower." Ivy rubs her chin. "But... not just that. We also can't deny the Heartless defending the tower too."

"That's true. I bet my money that even those Unversed and Nobodies would defend it too." Timerra said.

"Given that they did expect this, I suspected Elysium calculated that Crossbell would be liberated once more." Emblem Soren said. "Which means our foe's real goal was to unveil that weapon to the world."

"Right. The other Rean." Emblem Marth turns to Rean. "It's already safe to assume he's the one who constructed that tower and using Elysium's power as the administrator."

"Yes. The same one who ousted me from that position and took it for themselves." Lapis agreed.

"But I'm wondering how he managed to pull that off. It's not just that. But also every villain he recruited." Tails said.

"There's Mephiles, Iblis, Solarius, and Infinite. Even managed to get Eggman involved." Silver chin in.

"There's also Dr. Watts, which means Salem also has a hand on this too... right?" Emerald asked.

"Considering her plan... Yeah." Raven said.

"Then we got JP, Necalli, and someone who took Bison's name." Ryu fold his arms. "Akume turncoat. Speaking of him, I had a chat with him myself. He was approached when he was recruited, but he doesn't know who it was behind the cloak."

"Then we have two people from Phoenix's World." Mewtwo said. "Dahlia Hawthorne and Manfred Von Karma. Dahlia was a master of deceit while Von Karma was a man with an unhealthy obsession with being a person. But he lost that when Edgeworth's father ruined him."

"Sounds like someone we know who loves to be perfect." Futaba turns to Rufus.

"Please don't give me that look." Rufus muttered.

"Ahaha... The same can be said with my retainer, Tsubaki." Sakura scratches her cheek.

"Then there's Organization XIII." Noel added. "We heard it from that fake Xehanort's mouth he didn't want to let go of Kingdom Hearts. Which means the same shenanigans wanted to be repeated to summon Kingdom Hearts."

"What?!" Sora gasped. "Oh come on... not that again."

"But lucky for us, we defeated the Fake Xehanort. I'm sure the real one is happy that we took down his replica." Goofy said.

"Same for the real Maluxia and the others." Haru places her hand over her chest. "I hope the real Maluxia is okay somewhere in the world..."

"Haru..." Ann sadden.

"Speaking of villains... there's also my Father that was replicated." Akechi said.

"Then there's Sugoi and Quinella." Kirito folds his arms. "Honestly, those two were a pain in the ass to deal with. I'm just glad that Poh and even Gabriel weren't included."

"Then we got Terumi and Relius of all people too." Ragna said. "I better hope that Terumi is a replica. The last thing we want was someone as insane as him threatening this world."

"Agreed. We don't want something from our world to affect this world. Including certain people like Terumi." Jin said.

"Unfortunately, that's not gonna happen..." Makoto Nanaya sighed. "I mean, we got that Izanami with us and she was crazy."

"I'm right here, you know." Izanami turns to her.

"Eeep! S-Sorry!"

"Izanami, don't scare one of my best friends!" Noel Vermillion exclaimed.

"But... Izanami is a good guy, now?" Tsubaki asked. "I'm sorry. I'm really having trouble believing that."

"I don't blame you, Tsubaki." Ragna said.

"I don't need your input, Ragna the Bloodedge."

"Why the hell it is me you don't show some respect?" Ragna muttered.

"There's also Dimentio. Him aside was also the Six Anguis of Ouroboros." Kevin added

"Then we got Adam he recruited." Blake muttered. "Even Cinder... but she was also a replica."

"Yeah. The other Rean recruited and even made replicas of the bad guys from different worlds to join his cause." Ruby nodded.

"Out of all the villains we've met, he's the only one who can take the role of Elysium administrator." Weiss said. "Sure we got Relius Clover, Eggman, or Dimentio... but none of them even knew of Elysium or that secret involving the Septium Veins. Including Ouroboros."

"Yeah. That organization is evil, but they're more interested in the Sept-Terrions, right? So there isn't any reason for them to add to the list." Yang said.

"The only other candidate responsible for this madness is the other Rean." Ren said.

"But the question we all should be wondering is why he is doing this..." Emblem Celica sadden.

"There's also another thing we want to know too. Why is he obsessed with killing Rean and Lloyd?" Lyn added.

"That's also a good question. Both Rean and Lloyd are honorable people. I find it hard to believe of them making enemies of anyone." Emblem Sigurd said.

"And yet, the other Rean has some sort of vendetta against them." Lucina said. "Which perplexes me too."

"But what I also want to know is why he took Rean's appearance..." Edelgard wondered. "Rean is a noble soul... yet this Rean from what you told us is malevolent."

"He doesn't seem to be his Nobody either." Mickey added. "Or even a Heartless. After all, Rean hasn't fallen into darkness. The same with Lloyd."

"But another question we should also ask is where he came from." Palutena added.

"That's also true. His existence itself is a mystery." Vidiri agreed. "But there's also the fact he has the power of the Chaos Heart."

"The Chaos Heart?" Schmidt asked.

"Let's just say that it's a power beyond your understanding." Arceus said. "But in any case, I don't think any armies of Calvard, Erebonia, or others can solve this crisis."

"Agreed. And Zygarde will also have a hard time dealing with this." Mewtwo added.

"Zygarde is known as the Order Pokemon, right?" Renne asked.

"Yes." Arceus nodded. "Zygarde serves as the world's protector and the ecosystem. It has kept a close eye on the Septium Veins and the planet to ensure the equilibrium of the planet and the cycle of life and death are kept in check. A threat of this level is something he wants to do to neutralize the threat that would harm the world."

Kevin whistle. "Wow. This Pokemon definitely sounds like it's on the same level as a Holy Beast and a deity no less. However... Zygarde was also one of the Pokemon that was captured and used to supply energy to create that force field, right?"

"Which means the other Rean knew the threat it also posed. Two birds with one stone..." Noel muttered.

"Then what can we do to stop it?" Céline asked with concern. "If we don't do something to stop that weapon, this world will be destroyed."

"I agree. It's only been four months ever since we came into this world after our friends helped save our world from Sombron. Now it's also our turn to help save your world too." Fogado pointed out.

"Yeah! There's no way we're letting some evil doppelganger destroy your world! Not after everything you've done for us. The Emblem included!" Hortensia agreed. "So let's come up with a big mega plan to stop that thing and defeat that mastermind!"

(BGM ended)

"Hortensia's right." Juna agreed.

(Trails into Reverie ost - Raindrop in the Wind)

"I agree that we should come up with a plan that can stop that weapon and get answers from that other Rean. Especially his goal about the "true peace." How the hell can you take the whole world hostage to pursue a noble goal of eternal peace? How is that going to unite us? It's not going to unite anyone! We worked too hard for this. I won't let this vice grip he thinks he can stop us from crossing the finish line!"

"That's the spirit, Juna!" Claude nodded in agreement. "Took the words out of our mouth."

"Yeah." Lloyd smiled. "We've stood up when knocked down a hundred times—this is just a hundred and one. 'Cause no matter how high the barrier, it'll never be enough to stop us!"

"Right. And all of us from Thors will be right there to help you get over it." Rean agreed.

"You got that right." Levi nodded with a smile. "I want to see a better tomorrow— and I want to see it together with the people I love and care about."

"Yeah! We're right there with you!" Elliot cheered

"Liberls' here to support you all we can, too!' Tita smiled

"Crossbell and Erebonia are neighbors, yes—but it's more that we've overcome enough as a team that we would never back out now." Joshua said.

"Yeah! Teamwork's made the dream work enough times before, so why wouldn't we help?" Estelle smirked

"You also got our help too!" Daisy's palm fist with a smirk. "The Fighters of Smash Bros... basically... all the friends you made!"

"That includes the help of the Mushroom Kingdom." Peach smiled. "You have its full support in this dilemma."

"You also got my kingdom backing too." Bowser smirked. "In fact, I can have my army be here in seconds instead of Erebonia and Calvards."

"That's right. If I may. Crossbell has some hope now." Kamek said

"What do you mean?" Aoi asked

"You all remember that Erebonia and Calvard are the nations are Crossbell neighbors that cannot interfere correct?" Kamek asked. "It's true that THEY cannot interfere. But as the Russell girl, Princess Peach, and his Eviliness pointed out, Liberl, the Mushroom Kingdom, and our Kingdom can."

"Oh, that's right!" Regina gasped. "In other words, if we ask for the Empire and the Republic's help, our independence is gone for good. But if we ask powerful nations like the Mushroom Kingdom, King Bowser's nation... we can still have our independence because they are not interested in having dominion on Crossbell. They are friends of Crossbell and intend to keep it that way."

"This is awesome!" Juna cheered.

"Yeah! With the help of the Mushroom Kingdom, King Bowser's Military, we can pull it off!" KeA cheered

"You also have our support as well." Xander nodded his head with a smile.

"Yes. Nohr, Hoshido, Valla, and I can safely assume Ylisse, Fodlan, Remnant, and Fiore want to join in on this battle." Ryoma agreed.

"Then our chance of independence remains unchanged." Lloyd smirked

"We, of course, are also here for you." Claire said.

"Damn, do you guys love these cute speeches. I'd burst one out, too, if I had one to give." Lechter smirked.

"Yer for all we have on our side, there are still limits to what we can do." Rufus remarks and turns to Lapis. "The real key to our success is her."

"Right. Elysium plays a major role, and the formal administrator has the power to make or break the rules the current administrator took from her." Neve agreed. "If anyone is capable of stopping that machine for this world for a brighter tomorrow... it will be her."

"Lapis. I hate to put this kind of pressure on you, but we're absolutely going to need you in this upcoming operation" Lloyd placed his hand over his chest. "Will you help us?"

Lapis folds her arms. "No."

Lloyd just blinked. "What?"

"I said, I'm not helping you!"

Everyone had an ! over their heads while Rufus and Neve sweatdrop and Neve also palm face.

"You did NOT just say no!" Juna exclaimed

"Bwahahaha!" Hazama laughed. "Oh, I'm sorry! I couldn't help but laugh at that."

"Is this some JOKE to you!?" Ragna glared.

"Goddamn it, Lapis." Neve muttered.

"Read the room." Swin sighed

"That's how our girl is." Nadia sighed. "She doesn't let anyone push her into doing what she doesn't want to."

"It's not like we're bossing her around over something trivial!" Machias muttered

"She can't go, 'Screw you guys! I'm outta here!' when the stakes are THIS damn high!" Ash grumbled.

"Okay, okay everyone calm down." Nahida placating. "I understand this is completely unexpected. But I'm sure Lapis has a reason for this." She turns to Lapis. "Lapis, is there any reason why you don't want to help us? Or is it because you only help your friends?"

"No. I'd say the same thing to them." Lapis replied. "I'm not helping anyone... because I'M the one who needs help. Elysium is at the center of everything that's playing the world. That means as its former administrator, I have a duty to set things right." She places her hands on her hips. "I wish to make this very clear: This isn't your problem I'm saving. This is my problem that YOU'RE saving!" She smiled. "So please, I need you to help me!"

"Way to turn it around, LP!" Nadia clapping her hands.

"Raar!" Ursaring clapping her hands.

"Heh." Rufus chuckled. "She is technically correct."

"Does that 'technically' matter?" Swin asked.

"Yes! It's a very important distinction!" Lapis pouted

"She's more of a character than you led me to believe, Ian." Dieter looks at him.

"Believe me, I'm just as surprised at how much she's grown." Ian smiled. "Her friends have no doubt played a vital part in that."

Nahida giggled as she walked behind Lapis. "I also share Lapis's sentiment. Elysium is using the power of the Septium Veins to cause this level of destruction. I cannot stand idly by and let the Septium Vein be used and abused for this dark plot." She places her hands over her chest. "Which is why I requested all of you to join us to help solve OUR problem."

"Nahida's right." Furina got on her feet. "The Septium Veins are—wait, hang on." She snapped her fingers and Ian, Dieter, Erika, Schmidt, Sonya, Sergei, Regina, and certain others suddenly had bubbles on their heads.

"H-Hey, what's this!?" Erika touches the bubble.

"Don't worry for those I place the bubbles on their heads. We're keeping them out of the secret that many of you know." Furina said. "The Septium Veins were our creation to support humanity. But now, it's being used for evil once more. As one of its creators, I will not allow it."

"The same is said for me." Mavuika nodded. "We allow humanity to use the Septium Veins however they please. Digging up Sepiths and such. But for other forces or someone with dark intentions plan to misuse it for evil. That's where we draw the line."

"Teyvat was once our world we rule as their gods." Zhongli said. "But we entrusted this world into Aidios. We love this world with our hearts. And all the memories associated with it. I would hate it for it to be destroyed."

"That is why we plan to interfere. We will not let the other Rean get away with this, nor let this go unpunished." Ei said.

"Yeah. I agree. Especially for everyone here. Both in the past and the present." Venti places his hands over his chest. "As the formal gods of this world... we ask for your assistance, children of man. Will you accept our request to stop this evil?"

"Heh." Crow chuckled. "Who are we to deny?"

"The distinction works in our favor, too." Mona nodded. "Every one of us here are friends. However..."

"Right. As Erebonians, we can't officially interfere in Crossbell's affair at the moment." Rean muttered "But I'm sure that there are people with the same minds who would agree to step in."

"It was, but we're past the point where we can claim this only involves Calvard." Sara nodded.

"Right. All of our lives are at stake here." Aether nodded. "Everyone here, including other nations leaders, wants to help with this crisis, but even if we didn't want to, this affects us as much as it does Crossbell."

"Yeah! Crossbell, Erebonia, Fodlan, Liberl, Fiore... basically it's everyone on the planet's problem!" Lucy nodded. "If you think about it. That's a lot of people you should consider. So it makes sense for their armies to join the fight."

"Right, but all across the map's right." Erza nodded. "But we're going to need everyone to help both Lapis and the Titans to overcome this." Erza nodded. "Fairy Tail could never turn away a helping hand. And I can say the same for the Bracers, Thors, and everyone else."

"You got that right!" Wendy smiled.

(BGM ended)

Lapis tilts her head. "What just happened? Are you ignoring me?"

"Ehehe. Of course not, Silly." Nahida petting Lapis's hair. "You helped everyone feel like a team."

"You heard your mom, right, LP." Nadia giggled. "Good girl! We're so proud of you!"

"I don't get why..." Lapis sighed

Furina snapped her finger and the bubbles popped without wetting the clothes of those who were not allowed to hear.

(Trails into Reverie ost - A Dark World)

"All right, with that said in mind. Let us discuss the objective at the present." Aqua advised.

"Right." Litchi turns to Lapis. "Lapis, is there a way we can stop the tower?"

"Well, Elysium came to be through the orbal network and spirit veins. It existed in an entirely intangible state during its birth within Ir—"

"Abababa!" Furina waving her arms rapidly and then snapped her fingers again to place the bubble on those who are forbidden to hear. "Okay, now you can continue."

"Hey! What's with this bubble again? Come on, let me in!" Erika yelled

"As I was saying... It existed in an entirely intangible state during its birth in Irmensul. So retaking control over it would normally be impossible. I'm not sure how the other Rean pulled that off... but right now, though, it exists in physical form through the tower's central terminal. That much is very clear to me now that the signal jamming is gone."

"And in other words, we have a fighting chance." Levi said.

"Not to mention we have full control over the Septium Veins." Venti said. "So, all we got to do is sever or close off its connections to the Septium Veins." Venti smirked.

"Wait, you could do that?!" Kevin asked in surprise.

"Perhaps we should expect this coming from the old world's Gods and creators of the spirit veins." Wazy said.

"Right. The spirit veins belong to them and have full dominion over them. They can even take away or shut down the spirit veins completely." Gaius nodded. "So severing the ties will not only disable that "divine lightning" but also giving us more of a fighting chance."

"That means we got the element of surprise on that front." Arval smirked.

Furina snapped her fingers and popped the bubbles.

"Right. But regardless, we also can't deny the possibility the enemy could use other powers." Ludwig pointed out.

"Like the Chaos Emerald." Amy muttered.

"Right. I think the Master Emerald is also inside that tower." Knuckles said. "So I'm going to need your help to take them back."

"That will also be one of our goals. To reclaim the Chaos Emeralds and the Master Emerald." Shadow said.

"Right." Makoto Yuki turn to Lapis. "Lapis, it is possible for you to reinstall you back as the administrator?"

"As long as we can reach the tower's center and I can wire myself directly to it, yes." Lapis answered, "If we do that, both the tower and the divine lightning should cease to function."

"Then we have another mission." Mitsuru said. "However, I'm afraid that's easier said than done..."

"The Zauber Soldots and the Heartless are going to be difficult enough to pass, and then the tower itself is built like a fortress." Alisa muttered.

"It's also worth noticing that it's being protected by some sort of barrier while it draws in new energy." Emma added. "The barrier is different compared to the energy sap away from the Legendary and Mythical Pokemon. This new barrier's mana is so dense that I doubt even railway guns, Banzai Bills, or other destructive weapons could break it."

"I-It's that durable?" Duvalie asked in concern.

"I feared it would be something like this." Musse muttered.

"W-Wait. Don't you have that mage who dispels the barrier like she did in the Great Twilight?"

"Trinity." Kokonoe fold her arms. "Yeah. I'm sure Trinity is looking into the barrier right now. If she can analyze it, it is possible she can break it. Barriers and defective magic is her specialty compared to my Mother."

"Before we can even think of teleporting inside, we need to take care of that barrier." Celine said

"I'd also like to add that the tower sits over a lake." Kazuha pointed out.

"We have two Merkabah hidden and ready for use, but this isn't going to be as easy to get to the Azure Tree was." Wazy said.

"Not with our enemy being armed to the teeth." Randy muttered.

"My Merkabah is undergoing repairs in Erebonia with the Courageous II so that one's out." Gaius said.

"Guess we'll have to rely on our Divine Knights." Crow fold his arms

"Right. Valimar, Ordine, and the other Divine Knights that Aether has can help turn the tides on the barrier." Rean nodded.

"But we also need to add something else into the mix too. Just in case." Monica said.

"And that something lies with me." A voice said as Olivert, Vita, Rosalia, Yen Sid, Grace, Lumera, George, Angelica, Jubei, Nine, Trinity, Rachel, Raquel, Es, Thomas, and a new character into the mix.

"!" Kirito gasped at the character.

"No way...' Eugeo gasped.

"Rabbit?" Ragna asked

"Oh, Mother!" Alear gasped.

"Olivier!" Estelle exclaimed

"Angie! George!" Towa exclaimed.

"Master Yen Sid!" Mickey gasped.

"Vita?!" Emma gasped.

"Well, look who decided to show up." Emblem Vita smirked

"Glad to see you as always, Emma, Emblem me." Vita wink

"Of course, she decided to swoop in right as you're discussing how to overcome a new, overpowering weapon." Roselia sighed "You don't always have to make a show of coming in to save the day, Vita."

"Oh, because you've never done it a thousand times yourself, Grandmother." Vita shotback. "I just couldn't afford to stay away knowing the society—the professor, mainly—is involved."

"Right. I also need to... discuss with that idiot." Noel fold his arms.

"If the rest of Thors is getting in on protecting the beautiful ladies of Zemuria from this new threat, then how could I skip out?" Angelica asked "If I get in on this action, I might get in on THAT action. Know what I mean~?"

"If only we didn't..." George sighed. "Hey there Crow, Tails, Kirito, Futaba."

"Yo, what's of George?" Futaba smiled.

"What the heck are you doing here, Father Thomas?" Kevin asked. "Weren't you supposed to be in Arteria still?"

"Must mean our ever-reluctant superiors realized they can't leave this to chance." Wazy comment.

"You would be correct. Even they can't ignore a broadcast so damning. Let alone the same thief who infiltrated and stole one of our artifacts." Thomas said.

"I see the SSS has been very busy! Hopefully, I can give congrats once I'm back in Crossbell." Grace chuckled.

"Hold on to that congrats. Our work's not don't yet." Lloyd said.

"You've been conducting an independent investigation in the Empire from what I've heard?" Rean asked

"At the request of none other than the prince himself here." Grace said. "Course, I wasn't the only investigation Team."

"That's right my good reporter friend!" A voice said as the Pretty Boy Detective Club and Team Chaotic entered the chat.

"Oh! It's my friends, the Pretty Boy Detective Club!" Alisa smiled

"It's nice to see you again Alisa. Sorry, we couldn't catch up with you." Mayumi smiled

"Oh hey! It's Vector, Espio, and Charmy. How you guys doing?" Sonic asked.

"We're going great, Sonic. Heard you have been busy teaching Eggman a lesson." Vector smirked.

"Nice job by the way!" Charmy said

"Our dear friend, Prince Olivert also asked us to help with the Investigation with our fine news reporter here, while also looking into more details about the mastermind from all the intel we've gathered." Manabu said.

"We may be unable to mobilize the Imperial Army, but there is a way to catch the enemy unawares, even if it involves an element of luck." Olivert said. "If it works, however, you'll be able to get inside the tower."

"Really? How?" Asuna asked

"Unfortunately, we can't share the details with you all." The girl said."It would spoil the element of surprise. Especially with Elysium."

"A wise decision. We can't rule out of the singularity is listening in somehow." Tager said

"Then I'll need to upgrade for anti-Elysium hacking." Kokonoe said.

"I'm still analyzing the barrier molecules. There are some new similarities but at the same time, some new ones that have yet to be discovered. With the proper time, it's possible I may be able to dispel it, after researching back to the previous barrier in Crossbell. I'll keep you all updated." Trinity smiled

"It's been a while, Kirito. Eugeo." The girl said.

"Cardinal!" Kirito smiled. "I'm so happy to see you!"

"Another friend, I presume?" Leafa asked

"Yeah. She's from the Underworld and has been a huge help against Quinella. Course, she's also one of those who died..." Kirito said with a smile yet sad. "But if you're here... that means...!"

"Oh, I knew I forgot to mention something to you, Kirito. Silly me." E. Gadd chuckled. "Before the EDF has taken me custody into the Reinford Factory, I was going to call you and let you know the "resurrection" was a success!"

"Resurrection?" Alcryst asked with a surprise.

"Not an actual resurrection." Kirito said. "Everyone in the Underworld—And no, not the Underworld where Hades rules over or Gehanna— is the virtual world back in my homeworld. I brought over the data and Cardinal system, hoping I could "revive" her. Once that was finished, we would create a body for her like we did with Alice."

"That's right. You also use your memories as a blueprint that allows me to "exist". Cardinal nodded. "Charlette is also resurrected. So you can count on the two of us to help with Elysium."

"Awesome!"

"With that in mind, we need to work on the operation." Nagahiro said.

"Indeed. May I ask for your support in that endeavor, Towa, Commander Sonya, Robin, Soren." Olivert asked.

"Of course!" Robin nodded.

"I'd never turn that down!" Towa nodded

"We have until it hits 1700 hours to pull this off, so time is of the essence." Sonya said. "Let's begin at once!"

"Oh, wait wait!" Erika yelled. "Before we head out for you all to do your discuss." She turns to the call. "Queen Lumera. Can I ask a special favor from you?"

"A favor from me?" Lumera asked. "What kind of favor?"

"Oh, nothing much. But can you create an Emblem version of Tita? Pretty please?"

"M-Mooooom!" Tita complained as everyone sweatdrop.

Agate sighed "Erika, really?"

"Ahaha... I can't make any promises but... we'll have to see if I can create an Emblem Version of Tita."

"Then I'll hold you up to that!" Erika's eyes sparkle.

"Queen Lumera, please forgive me, mother." Tita groaned.

(BGM ended)

---

Later...

(Trails into Reverie ost - The Gears Named Fate)

"This is going to be our last chance to prepare, but we've got less than half a day left." Lloyd said as they all left Orchis Tower. "So there's only going to be so much that we can do."

"The bulk of the responsibility right now is with the commander and the others who are formulating a plan either way." Tio said.

"I agree." Aoi nodded. "We're still responsible for preparing for the fighting we're going once we're at the tower."

"Indeed. I would like to tour the region and see how everyone is doing while we can, too." Elie nodded.

Rean turns his head to the Orbal Bikes. "The Bikes that Alisa got her hands on from the Reinford Company should help us there."

"I've also brought horses with us too." Levi said. "If anyone wants to ride them, feel free to ask me. And for new beginners, I'll gladly teach you the basics."

"I'll also explain the basis of riding the orbal bikes later on." Noel Seeker said.

"We also got our Pokemon who are large enough to ride too."

"That reminds me." Randy looking at Rufus with his disguise.

Rufus's disguise was his blond hair changed to black and glasses.

"Since when did you manage to change your hair to black?"

"Neve used his magic to alter my hair color, including my eyes." Rufus answered but his voice changed too. "I also plan to use the glasses to hide my look. Since my mask would draw too much attention while we walking around the city."

"Wait, how did your voice change?" Jusis asked

"I gave him a magic potion to temporarily change his voice." Neve answered

"Damn, you WAAAY too prepared for this guy." Ash comment

"Why does that sound awfully familiar?" Musse turns to Kurt with a grin on her face.

"Please don't bring that up." Kurt muttered.

"You must be quite lucky to have Neve at your side with everything, huh?" Wazy said

"Hehe. I can't deny that. He is a most reliable partner. And. And a best friend a guy like me can have."

"Rufus..." Neve blinked as he blushed and looked the other way and folding his arm. "Tch... idiot..."

"Ooh~" Nadia grinned. "Sounds like someone's icy heart has melted."

"One more word out of you and I'm turning you into a popsicle." Neve glared at Nadia.

"In any event. Shall we meet again here just before the operation is scheduled to begin, then?" Rufus asked "Do all that you want to now so that you may face what comes next without regrets."

"Makes sense, I guess." Nadia struggled.

"We shouldn't be too friendly with them." Swin struggled as he took off with his group.

"Wait, Lord Rufus." Lloyd called out to him as his group stopped.

"Can I help you, Detective?" Rufus turns to him. "You certainly look like you have something to say."

"Oh, I do. Thinking about it, this is our first time speaking since the Pantagruel before the war."

"Now that you mention it..." Juna recalled

"Ah. If you are hoping to try and make good on what you said them, I would not be opposed to humoring you." Rufus said. "But I would have thought there were better ways to use what precious little time we have left to us."

"I happen to agree." Lloyd places his hand over his chest. "That's why I think it would be fruitful for you to travel around Crosbell with us." He said, causing an ! over Rufus's group. "It's not possible to change the past—but during the upcoming operation, we will be fighting on the same team. The more time we spend preparing together, the more I think we'll find it back one another up if things get dicey. What do you say?"

"Hm..."

"We share Lloyd's view on the matter." Tio agreed.

"I can't deny there's bad blood between us, but the stakes are too damn high here to be pretty." Randy said

"Dar from me to second-guess our leader." Wazy winked.

"Heehee. That's Lloyd for you—always looking at the big picture." Rixia smiled

"You've got to hand it to him." Aoi smiled.

New Class VII, Kingdom Hearts crew, Mario, Luigi, and Team Natsu nodded in agreement.

"We'd like to come along too." Rean smiled "The rest of our classmates have their own preparations to make, so they won't be joining us, but..."

"We'll have to learn as much as we can in their place!" Juna smirked.

"We've been going around separately until now, so we all need to see how everyone else fights." Altina said.

"But even putting all of that said, there's something I want you to see." Lloyd's fist pump. "I want you to see the strength of Crossbell's people. I want you to witness how even in times as hopeless as these, we never give up."

"Heh. You've some chutzpah." Rufus chuckled. "Very well. I see no reason to refuse."

Neve sighed. "I can't tell if you guys are that naive or really are chutzpah. But, it not like I don't like it."

"Yaaay, we get to hang out with RX and AI again~" Nadia cheered

"Who's RX and AI?"

Randy turns to Rixia. "Rixia, maybe?"

"I didn't know you knew them." KeA smiled

"It's not just Rixia, but me too." Aoi smiled. "It's quite the funny story for Rixia's part."

"Ahaha..." Rixia scratching her cheeks with a nervous smile.

"We met not that long ago." Swin smiled

"We're part of a secret assassin's club." Nadia giggled.

"A-Assassins?" Wendy gulped.

"Pfft. Like we needed any more crazy kids." Ash comment.

Lapis is staring at Lloyd's face.

"Umm... Yes?" Lloyd tilts his head. "I'm all ears if there's something you want to say."

"I remember that your name is Lloyd Bannings, right? Hmm... I think it WAS you after all."

"Who was what?" Nadia asked.

"Did he so something?" Swin asked

"I performed one last prediction on the future just before control of Elysium was stolen from me. And that briefly showed me someone who I think was you." Lapis said

Everyone had an ! over their head.

"Please don't tell me something is going to happen to him again." Tio muttered

"Please don't worry. I didn't see a vision of him dying again or anything. What I see was very fragmented, so I can't be sure exactly what it meant... But I feel as though it was telling me that you are the only one capable of unraveling the truth behind all of this."

"Me?" Lloyd pointed at himself.

"Yes. You are the only one who fulfills all of the conditions. But all I saw was this possible future conclusion. I didn't see what steps would lead up to making it happen."

"Huh." Randy scratched his hair. "Sure wish we had a few more details to go on."

"But that's a hard story to ignore given Elysium's ability to predict the future." Elie said.

"Maybe we should talk with my siblings, including the Astral Express. After all, he along with the others were investigating the matter with the other Rean and the Chaos Heart." Levi advised.

"Yeah. Might be a good idea to hit it with them." Randy nodded.

"Thanks for telling me, Lapis. I'm sure we'll need all the help you can give once this whole thing kicks off, too." Lloyd smiled.

"I thought I told you that this is my problem that YOU'RE saving! You're helping ME!" Lapis pouted.

"Haha. So you did."

"You're also helping out my siblings too." Levi chin in. "Shall we head off?"

"Once our preparations are completed, we need to assemble on the tower's rooftop." Rufus replied.

"Yeah. So let's make sure that when we do, we're heading out with no regrets!" Lloyd smiled "All right, let's be off." he said as they took off.

---

Crow, Elliot, Annette, Emma, Emblem Vita, Celine, Wendy Koopa, Scarlet, Mona, Morgan...

The group spotted Crow, Emblem Vita, Morgan, Emma, Celine, Wendy Koopa, Scarlet, Mona, Elliot and Annette.

"Hey guys!" Levi greeted the group. "Whatcha up too?"

"We were talking about the dance that came from Ilya." Mona answered.

"Right. We've investigating the effects of its curse-like power." Emma nodded.

"Elliot, Annette, Morgan, and I humped into them while patrolling around the city." Crow said.

"I was also looking into how the citizens and Pokemon are faring as I was following the flow of the septium veins. The brainwashing has mostly vanished now that the co-supreme leaders has been removed and the mask has been destroyed." Scarlet replied.

"That's a relief to hear." Rean smiled

"The mask was vulnerable to Levi's power to repel evil. The same is set with Zelda's power." Emblem Vita said. "From what I know, the Gnomes mask doesn't seem to have that kind of weakness since it's just a mask."

"Right. The mask must have been design through special properties of ore or something. But that doesn't seem to be the case." Morgan placed her hand on her hip. "Since when does regular or special metal have some influence of evil within them?"

"Yeah. That part I find rather surprising. I don't think there is any kind of metal, ore, or whatever material that can crack through power to repel evil. Not unless it came from a monster." Annette hummed.

"Right. Monster parts can be used to create the mask, but we don't know what kind of monster." Mona agreed.

"You know, There is magic that you can create anything through imagination. Kamek is the best person you can discuss about this. He can create inanimate objects so I assume that's where the mask came from." Wendy Koopa replied.

"I've also heard something similar about that. I met a friend during my travels to Fiore and she told me about a magic called the Arc of Embodiment. Magic lost to time. Arc of Embodiment is a type of magic where you can create anything through imagination." Emblem Vita folds her arms. "While that magic is lost, there was someone who can wield that power. But last I heard the dark mage was defeated by Fairy Tail after they were frozen in time in Tenrou Island."

"Yeah. I remember about that from Natsu." Rean nodded. "He said that Dragon Acnologia attacked the island and their first Guild Master spirit: Master Mavis saved them with her magic. Seven years has passed for them until they've returned."

"Whoa! So they were frozen in time?" Nadia asked.

"I'm no expert in magic, but wow..." Swin muttered.

"That's magic for you. Magic is everything from my point of view. Magic operates differently from the physical laws and follows its own set of rules or no rules." Neve nodded. "Master Mavis was an incredible person. It... is regrettable that I couldn't meet her in person."

"She was a good friend of us too." Emma sadden. "She taught us magic. If it weren't for her, I would never be able to use Mirror Magic."

"Yeah. She was incredible. If only Rose can take lessons from her." Celine sighed. "But Natsu and the others said she's in peace now with the man she loved."

"I hope we can visit her grave and offer our respect for her again." Musse sadden. "She's done so much for us too after her passing."

"Yeah. Grandmother, Vita, Master Yen Sid, we were sad that she's gone." Emma nodded

---

Flashback...

"Master Mavis passed away." Emma gasped in shock as she and Roselia were visited by Erza.

"Yes." Erza lowers her head. "That's why we're setting up her funeral. Now that our war with the Alvarez Empire is over."

"I see..." Roselia lowers her head. "*sigh* Mavis... Heh... Looks like... you got your wish."

---

End of Flashback...

"That's just how life is. Zeref is free from his curse and Mavis wants to accompany him into the afterlife. But enough about that. We don't want her to feel sad for us still. If she were here, I imagine she wants us to smile and keep going, especially in this crisis." Celine said

"That is something she would say." Levi nodded with a smile yet sad.

"In any event, it's possible that it was constructed by magic by creating with imagination." Mona said. "That could explain the similarities with the curse and the power Ilya obtained as well. The other Rean must have created it with his powers from the Chaos Heart or Elysium. Whatever the case is, we would have to be careful with him."

"Speaking of the doppelganger, are you okay facing him off?" Elliot asked.

"Yeah. As Neve, Palutena, Arceus and Levi's siblings speculated. He's a completely different existence compared to those androids." Crow nodded. "Not to mention his emotions are real enough that he's really wanted to kill you and Mr. Detective here."

"But why him, and Rean through? And why take on Rean's appearance as well? There has to be something to it." Wazy said.

"I'd imagine it's because he has a key role when it comes to the tower, but I couldn't say anything beyond that." Scarlet said "Perhaps he sees you both also a threat to his goals."

"Regardless, I agree that there's something ominous at work that we're missing." Emma said.

"Right. Whoever that imposter is, we'll have to face him eventually, especially him being Elysium's administrator." Wendy Koopa said

"Yeah, know that we got your backs. Both of you." Annette nodded.

"Thanks Annette. That means a lot." Rean smiled.

"Of course. I want to live in this peaceful world of ours with all of you. Friends, family... and love ones." Annette smiled

"Yeah. And I wanted to protect not just my friends and family, but my beloved Annette. My other half, my songbird." Elliot smiled

"Oh, Elliot." Annette smiled as she blushed and hugged him as he hugged back. "You really know how to make my heart skip a beat."

"Hehe. What can I say? I love you very much, my Annie." Elliot smiled.

"Get a room you two." Crow teased.

"Look who's talking Crow." Mona fold her arms.

"Hehehe." Morgan giggled as she lay her head on her husband's shoulder.

"Listen to you all. As saccharine as ever." Scarlet chuckled. "Then again, here I am, helping to save the world, too... Life sure is strange. Hey, C... or Crow, I suppose. Neither of us can afford to die out here. We need to keep living for the sake of our lost comrades. There's still a lot of sin to atone for. Not to mention you have a lovely wife who can more than put up with you. Never lose her."

"You're preaching to the choir, sister. I almost died once, so I know I'm not going to waste my second chance that my boss granted me." Crow wraps his arm around Morgan. "As for Morgan, I don't need you to tell me that. As a man, her husband, I swore I will protect her, no matter what."

"And I'll protect you, Crow." Morgan smiled. "As your wife, your companion in life... and our future that we dream for."

"Yeah. Love you, my babe." Crow smiled and then pulled her for a kiss.

"All right, everyone." Annette smiled. "Let's protect this beautiful world of ours."

"Yeah!" Rean fist pumps as his group takes off.

---

West Street...

"Well, look who decided to drop by." Noel said as he, Renne, Estelle, Joshua, Emblem Loewe, and Emblem Arianrhod were chatting with Sophia and Conner.

"Heya guys! How are you holding up?" Estelle asked.

"We're still all right. I didn't expect to see Noel among you. Do you guys met up with Sophia?" Lloyd asked.

"We just happened to bump into each other on the way back from taking care of a few wanted monsters on the highway." Joshua explained.

"And we were just on our way to help with the food bank preparation at Bellheim." Sophia smiled "We had talked about having Estelle and Joshua over for dinner the last time we went out to eat with Renne. What a happy accident that we would run into each other again so soon. Let alone, we meet one of Renne's friends. I assume he was her boyfriend."

"Don't tease me, Sophia." Renne said as she blushed a bit.

"Hah! Look at you Renne, being embarrassed." Estelle smirked.

"Hehehe. Well for me. I wanted to find a place to cool down after the battle was won. That tower really surprised me in every way. I didn't expect the enemy would do so far to throw the world into chaos like that." Noel said. "So after I came back, I ran into Renne, and here we are."

"The timing was quite surprising. Perhaps fate has something to do with it." Emblem Loewe said. "It was good to see the Harwood family after Renne introduced me to them back when she had dinner with them."

"This is my first time meeting them too." Noel nodded. "And I like the idea that I was introduced as Renne's boyfriend."

"Knock it off, Noel. We're not dating you know." Renne said.

"I know, but it would be nice if we did."

"You're making me blush on purpose, aren't you?"

"Hehe. Who can tell." Noel smiled.

"Hehe. My, what a lovely young man he is."

"That's my son all right. He never changes." Emblem Arianrhod smiled. "Unfortunately, we won't be able to attend to the family gathering for the meal."

"Huh?" Colin tilts his head and looks sad. "You mean you're not gonna come eat with us at the Bellheim? I wanted to do something to thank Renne for saving me and being my friend."

"That's awfully sweet, but I don't recall ever saving you." Renne replied.

"But! You know that's not true! Plus, Papa said you saved him, too!"

Renne sighed. "What am I going to do with you?"

"Aw. You guys are even closer than I thought." Estelle chuckled.

"Would it be all right if we dropped by after our next big mission is complete?" Joshua asked. "We can also try to squeeze in a small visit as we do our next set of rounds."

"That! We can do that, too!"

"Oh, boy. You always were a softie, Joshua." Renne comment.

"That is how he is." Emblem Loewe smiled.

"Of course. We'll be waiting for you to come home safely." Sofia smiled. "Be careful, and good luck."

"I wish I can join you, but I'm just a stranger so I don't think I should introduce myself." Noel said. "Oh, that reminds me, have you guys spoken to Kieran yet?"

"To Kieran? Should we?" Lloyd asked

"Ah, so you haven't been told yet." Noel folds his arms, muttering. "It involves the mask that Ilya wore. Turns out he was sent with one too."

Everyone except Rufus's group had an ?! over their heads.

"What did you say?!" Renne turns to Noel.

"Kieran got one of those masks too?" Lloyd asked with a serious look.

"I've heard it straight out of that fake's mouth. You can ask my group here if you don't believe me."

"It's true. We did hear him mention that Kieran also received a mask but did not put it on." Rufus nodded. "It seems some a stroke of luck to save him from falling in the same way as Ilya. It would be wise to meet with him."

"Yeah. We got to know about that mask." Tio nodded.

"Thanks for the tip, Noel." Lloyd smiled.

"Glad I can help. Find out anything about that mask." Noel smiled.

"Oh!" Estelle gasped. "I almost forgot something to mention. Joshua, do you remember that investigation about Zephia and her Hounds having the ARCUS Alpha?"

"Oh, that's right." Joshua nodded as he grimaced.

"Oh yeah! Zephia, the Evil Veyle, and the other Hounds have ARCUS Alpha. And you guys were investigating, right?" Juna asked

"Yeah. We managed to find out something. Ah, but this isn't something Connon should hear."

"Huh? How come?" Connon asked

"It's... not something children should hear. But... those ARCUS units belongs to a few Bracers from Liberl... " Joshua muttered. "You guys remember what the Evil Veyle said when she got her hands on the ARCUS units, right?"

Everyone had an ! over their heads.

"Not just me. My Hounds have one too. We borrow them from those pathetic vermin you call Bracers All we have to do is kill some of them and take this useful invention for our own. By our benefactor's suggestion."

"Yeah. That evil Veyle mention she took it from the Bracers who were..." Levi muttered.

"But something what she said, doesn't make sense." Renne fold her arms. "They were defeated by Rachel and the others. It should not be possible for them to return to Zemuria. The only options is that this benefactor of Sombron was the who took the ARCUS units from them... after they... you know."

"Right. We haven't learn who was this benefactor is too." Emblem Loewe nodded. "The Bracers were C ranks, and they were new... but now they ended up..."

"Yeah. I hope we can find more clues about this benefactor of Sombrons. Thanks for telling us." Lloyd said. "All right, let's head off, everyone." He said as they take off.

---

SSS Building...

"Hey, it's Zeits and Coppe!" KeA said as she saw not just Cerberus, Yoshi, Koraidon, Meowscarada, Hydrapple, Sinistea, Zeo, Florian, Aether, Paimon, Carmine, and Kieran with them. "Even Florian, Yoshi, Carmine, Kiera,n and their Pokemon too! Who are your new furry and feathered friends?"

"Th-This is incredible!" Tio cheered. "The mere sight of this scene is warm and fuzzy enough to make my heart melt."

"Hey guys!" Florian greeted.

"Greetings." Zeit greeted. "These creatures wish to watch over your heroics. They were drawn to one another and became comrades. Though in the case of the one named Cerberus, he's here because his master told him to spread word about their store."

"Woof... Woof!" Cerberus barked.

"Y-You don't say?" Juna sweatdrop. "They've always got you doing the weirdest jobs, huh, boy?"

"Yeah, I have no idea what that girl was thinking." Carmine muttered. "I mean, how can he spread out if he's a dog?"

"Ahaha... Maybe Jigo wanted some animal customers?" Florian asked with a nervous smile.

"And how could that be possible?" Carmine sweatdrop.

"Well I mean we got Yoshi who can understand us and even know some business before, even if he can't understand the human tongue."

"He's got you there, Sis." Kieran said.

"Mmm, Yo yo yoshi." Yoshi nodded.

"Scree, scree!" Zeo chirped.

"That's Gaius's partner, Zeo. Is he trying to tell us something?" Rean asked

"This one in particular is quite sharp. Indeed, there is a fair wind blowing." Zeit said.

"A fair... wind?" Rean tilts his head. Maybe Gaius would know.'

"Fear not. You will understand when the time comes."

"Hey, I wanna know how to talk to animals, too! Let me join!" Lapis smiled

"M-Me... Me, too! I've always wanted to have a conversation with Coope!" Noel Seeker said

"Can you dumbasses hear yourselves?" Ash sweatdrop. "We're in deep shit and you wanna shoot the breeze with some animals?"

"Is it really so different compared to our Pokemon?" Venti shot back. "Besides, they're our friends and allies, ya know."

"Haha. Well said, KeA." Aether smiled. "They may not be human, but they see themselves as your copatriots nonetheless."

"Yeah, we're all friends here in this world, and even beyond that." Paimon smiled.

"I, myself, was never meant to align with the interests of humans... but circumstances led to me becoming a police dog. Now it's my duty to stand with you all." Zeit smiled. "I intend to protect this land's future."

"Same goes for me." Aether placed his hand over his chest. "This world is our home. And I want to keep this world safe from all threats. Know that you got our help."

"Thanks for always having our backs, Zeits. And thank you Aether. We won't let you both down!" Lloyd smiled. "Oh, that reminds me. Kieran. Noel told us that you got one of those masks that was sent to you, right?"

"Oh!" Kieran pulls out the black and red mask.

"So it's true..."

"Kiki, where and when did you get this mask?" Florian asked with a serious look.

"It was after that time we dealt with Bowser in the Pixie Kingdom." Kieran answered

"After the Sprixie Kingdom?" Tio asked.

"Yeah... you see... when I returned to my room in Blueberry Academy, I received this package."

---

Flashback...

"A... Mask?" Kieran asked confusedly as in slow motion, he was going to put it on.

"Kiki." Carmine barges into Kieran's room.

"Whoa!" Kieran flinched as he accidentally tossed his mask into the air as he tosses the mask until he caught it. "Phew."

"What the heck were you doing just now?"

"I was catching the mask!"

"A Mask?" Carmine asked as she looked at it. "What kind of mask is this?"

"I honestly don't know. I just received it from the package in my bed." Kieran turns to his bed.

"That's odd. Did you get an email?"

Kieran pulls out his Rotom ARCUS Alpha. "No. I don't see an email about it."

"What the heck? Then how did it get in here?"

"Maybe Florian sent it to me. I mean he and you are the only ones who can come into my room."

"Makes sense. Anyway, come on. Let's go eat!"

"Okay." Kieran put the mask in his pocket and followed Kieran.

---

End of flashback...

"So I saved you from being corrupted?!" Carmine gasped.

"Now that I think about it. I guess you did." Kieran said.

"Woohoo! Go me! I presented Kiki from being corrupted!"

"Thank Arceus that you didn't put it on. Otherwise, we would be forced to fight you, Kieran." Florian muttered.

"Yeah. Thank Arceus that I didn't put it on..." Kieran shivered. "I can imagine the horrors I would have done." He turns to Lloyd's group. "Can you guys take it? Maybe it will help." He hands over the mask to Lloyd.

Lloyd takes it. "Of course. With this as evidence, we'll look into how it was made."

"We should ask Professor Kokonoe and the others in the Castle of Mirrors. Maybe they can examine it."

"Good idea. Let's head there." Rean nodded.

"Hmm..." Lloydrubsb his chin.

"Something, up, Detective?" Neve asked.

"Actually, there is something I need to check. Let's head to the Geofront B Sector." Lloyd said. "Speaking off. Let's contact a few friends who can help. I'll explain on the way."

(BGM ended)

---

To the Geofront B Sector...

(Trails into Reverie ost - Section G.F.S. II)

"This was the terminal that was used before during our investigation into the spirit veins." Rean staring at the exploded terminal.

"Yes, Tio and I were able to conduct a long-range spiritual power search using it." Emma nodded. "Though this terminal has certainly seen better days."

"I can explain that." Tio sighed. "It was destroyed by an exploding archaism shortly before the signing ceremony, sadly. I intended to put in a repair order request by the Epstein Foundation, but then... well, you know."

"Would it be possible for you to still search through this terminal's data?" Lloyd asked. "It's fine if all that's left are fragments and traces. I just don't want to leave any stones unturned."

"I suppose. There may not be much left to salvage, but I'll see what I can do." Tio turn to Tita, Renne, KeA, Tails, Kirito, Yui, Penny, Ludwig, Iggy, Futaba, Noel, and Fuuka. "Would you guys mind giving me a hand? I could use Alisa and Alhaitham's help, too."

"Okie Dokie!" KeA cheered

"This should be interesting." Renne smirked

---

Later...

"Oh! Look at this!" Futaba pointed as they saw Project Babel on the personal Laptop of Tio and Penny used her Technomancy to sync and reveal a screen for everyone to see.

"I remember that name." "Alhaitham rubs his chin. "It was the project back in Reinford's Military Factory. Project Babel..."

"We didn't have any leads on what it could be the first time we came across it." Lloyd said. "I doubt it has nothing to do with the Retributive Tower, though. This project was likely what led to its creation. Is there any data on the project itself?"

"Nothing left that can be analyzed I'm afraid." Tails sighed. "The memory quartz was heavily damaged."

"Hmm... Maybe I can help." Penny used her magic to spread the green wavelength on the Quartz and then the screen revealed downloading bars was low until it increased. "Okay, I have some good news after all. My technomancy can analyze the damaged memory quartz and put its pieces all together. But I need time for it to be completed. If things go well. We may learn more."

"Wow, your technomancy is incredible Penny!" Tio said.

"Indeed. It seems even the heavy of damage of memory quartz can be analyzed that no current technology can." Renne nodded. "It's a blessing that you possess this magic now."

"And all because of my time in Elyos." Penny scratched her cheek. "But is there anything we can look at until my analysis is complete?"

"Yeah. There are some records about new Zauber Soldots models connected to the project." Kirito said with his hologram screen as he typed. "I'll expend the screen." He then extends the screen.

"According to this, they were designed and sent to production in August of last year—before the whole war began." KeA said. "Wait... That doesn't sound right."

"You're right. It doesn't make any sense." Alisa hummed.

"The final trigger that led to Elysium's creation came on the first day of the war, didn't it?" Levi asked

"Yes, without a doubt. That's when the wheels were set in motion." Lapis answered

"But if this record is to be believed, the Helmord and Asmodyne existed before the war." Rufus rub his chin. "That's impossible. I can confirm that as one of Operation Jormungandr's leaders. Rest assured we would have deplored such weapons if we had them."

"No argument there." Ludwig said. "Either the information on the memory quartz is incorrect or by mistake. Perhaps we should consol with Professor Kokonoe. She was the one who took the data from Black Alberich at the time."

"True. If anyone who can help, it would be her." Alisa pull out her ARCUS Alpha and begin calling Kokonoe. "Pardon us, professor. But we got something we wanna asked." She then explains everything to Kokonoe.

"Hmm... So that explains it." Kokonoe replied.

"Elaberate, Professor." Rufus request

"It's true that both the Helmord and Asmodyne series of Zauber Soldots. However, they're part not of the Black Workshop series. They're actually Elysium's version."

"So Elysium was the one who created them." Neve rub his chin.

"According to what I managed to take from the Black Workshop, the Asmodyne model was part of the Black Workshop, but it was abandoned to put more favor to the Leviathan model. Never once the Asmodyne was constructed by Alberich, only designed. Which is why he never mentioned it. As for the Helmord model... there wasn't any data version of in. It was actually a new model by Elysium. I suspected Alberich's combat shell must have the data for it, but it was destroyed by Aether. But considering Elyisum's ability, it must have used its computer capabilities to enter the Black Workshop's terminal without being detected, copy the data, add it into its records, and calculate to make improvements. So you're half right but also half wrong."

"In other words, only the Asmodyne was designed but not sent to projection." Iggy rub his chin. "But why did the data said it was sent to projection?"

"It must have been misleading. Because that's where Elysium scan and copy the Zauber Models into its databank to make improvements."

"That would explain it." Lloyd rub his chin. "Thank you, Professor Kokonoe. That was a big help." He turn to the tech group. "Does it say anything about the tower though?"

"Unfortunately it doesn't say anything about shutting it off." Yui answered. "We came empty-handed. The other options if to wait for Penny's technomancy to finish analyzing the data."

The Technomagic screen reveal an Eevee emotion for a wink and saying "Evaaa~" and underneath was data analysis complete.

"Oh, it's done!" Penny said as she begin typing.

"Well, what does it say?" Tio asked.

"Hmm..." Penny hummed. "According to what it said.. it's exactly as Professor Kokonoe said. About being analyzed and added into its databank. However, It also went on how to construct the tower. As for shutting it off... I'm afraid only Elysium's administrator has the power to shut it off."

"Hmm... As expected." Noel sighed.

"Penny, do you think you can sent us that data for us to look into it?" Alisa asked.

"Yeah. I'll sent them to you right away." Penny nodded as she begins typing.

"Okay, got it!" Alisa fist pumped.

"All right. Let's head to the Castle of Mirror." Lloyd said. "I want to look at the terminal the other professors have been investigating."

(BGM ended)

---

Later...

(Trails into Reverie ost - Maliciousless of the Mirror)

"Oh hello, everyone!" Litchi greeted the group. "I'm glad that you all stop by."

"Wald, Rosine, Kevin, Ries, how are things going over here?" Wazy asked

"Not bad. The pros finished their analysis not long ago." Wald answered

"Really?" Tita asked

"Hmph. It was a simple task, especially given that most of the device's capabilities have already been demonstrated to us." Schmidt said. "Though the fact that a device capable of so much exists at all is something I did not expect."

"That says a lot in itself, coming from you." Alisa comment

"You mentioned that this device was responsible for the Retributive Tower's active camouflage, right?" Lloyd asked

"But it's not the same as the stealth technology used to hide the Courageous II in Nord?" Rean asked

"Right." E. Gadd folds his arms. "This device goes beyond the 'active camouflage'. One of its functions is that tit's capable of noise cancellation to the degree that would—and did—allow a weapon of that size to be built in secret."

"It's even made use of the Orbal network, internet, and communications equipment to alter boar routes to keep them away from it." Pieto added.

"I-Is that even possible?!" Juna asked

"I had wondered how it was made without anyone realizing it, but I suppose we now have our answer." Kurt muttered

"Was the Sonorous Seashell part of this?" Levi asked

"Part of it, yes—but it was only the final piece in a complex arrangement." Kokonoe answered. "That Fake Arios you encountered in Nord was also controlled from here as well."

"That was done all the way from Crossbell?" Arios asked

"Is there anything our enemy CAN'T do at this point? Sheesh." Randy muttered

"But why steal the artifact through?" Gaius asked.

"I believe I have an answer for that." Crygor rub his chin. "It is indeed true you can control the fake Arios in Nord from here due to the orbal satellite E. Gadd created 3 years ago. However, the enemy used the Sonorous Seashell to further increase the power of the device on a larger scale. And it is just that. It empowers it further. The more power it's been guided and given, the better the performance."

"That does make sense since the Sonorous Seashell is capable of encrypted orbal communications over an ultra-long distance." Kevin rub his chin.

"But all of this makes it sound ke to our enemy's plans. Why was it just left here?" Laura asked.

"Maybe they don't need it anymore now that the Retributive Tower's finished?" Fie struggled.

"Man, we shoulda ask the guy Rean fought 1-on-1." Lea sighed.

"Agreed." Rean given a serious look.

"News of Elysium has thrown Arteria into an uproar, too." Rosine said.

"It's understandable." Ries fold her arms. "The singularity of this caliber does not fit with the holy text. And it can't be file under the category of 'unexpected miracle' like the Salt Pale or the Blazing Demon, either."

"Hmph." Schmidt fold his arms. "There's no place for vague words like 'miracle' when talking about a singularity. We are talking a technological feat that has always been possible for humanity to achieve. That is, save the part about it having the never-before-documented capacity to calculate the very future."

"The predictive conditional convergence calculations." Aigis comment. "Where the tool to calculate the odds of potential outcomes based on the variables you define."

"Buuuut... Is there any limits you could so with something like that?" Labrys asked

"I'd say no." Lapis answered "Providing you know what you want to achieve, you can explore every possibility and option for getting there. If you had to choose between two options, you could calculate the possible future for both and reject the one with the worst outcome. Multiply that by an infinite number of choices and potential futures, and you have an idea what Elysium can do."

"It truly boggles the mind." Rean rub his chin. "Actually, this is something that Corrin and Kamui can understand. Heck, even Byleth."

"Why them for example?" KeA asked

"Back in their story, Corrin and Kamui were forced to choose who side to fight alongside with. Hoshido, or Nord. Back then, they were bitter enemies. But Corrin and Kamui both have family ties. There was this possible chance they'll lose not just love one but also force to fight them."

"But they have chosen a third path. A path of revelation. One where no one has to die and defeat the true mastermind behind the war. And when they defeated the mastermind, Nohr and Hoshido finally achieve true peace. And even restore Valla where Corrin rules as its King." Levi finished.

"Ah. So that's a good way to calculate possibilities to avoid the worst." KeA mused.

"The same can be said with Byleth. Because he had to choose three houses. The Black Eagles, Blue Lions, or Golden Deer. And given the situation with Thales and his diabolical group who force Edelgard to ally with them to set Fodlan into war. I can imagine he would be force to make a tough decision. To stand with Edelgard or against her." Sara said.

"And if it weren't for Xehanort actions... Edelgard would not be here, nor Fodlan would be reborn as a United Kingdom with Byleth as its king and Those Who Slither in the Dark continue to be the darkness of Fodlan." Laura then hold onto left arm. "I would hate the possibility that Felix would have die in that war..."

"Yeah... even Annette. The other Black Eagles, Blue Lions, Golden Deer, the Ashen Wolves, and everyone else in Fodlan." Juna trailed off.

"It feels well with my ability a little." Musse nodded. "As Xehanort said, its thanks to him everyone found a better path where everyone can live and defeat the true evil that plague their homeland for good."

"That, mixed with Arundel's super instincts?" Ash turning to him.

"Pfft. I wish." Lechter struggled. "I've got nothin' on the kind of stuff she's describing."

"At this point, it's genuinely believable that every decision we have made has been exactly in line our culprits projections." Musse said

"That's so crazy." Millium comment.

"That leaves the question of exactly what future they are trying to bring about." Claire wondered.

"Whaever it is, I can't see it being a bright one if a superweapon like the Retributive Tower is a key piece of the puzzle. Let alone the fact the other me is trying to murder both me and Lloyd. We can't let this come to pass." Rean stated

"Right. We can't let him get away with whatever he is planning to create this future." Levi agreed.

"You took the words right out of my mouth." Lloyd smirked. "It sounds like the rest of you are helping with what Prince Olivert is planning, too. We can do this. I know we can."

"Haha. You guys aren't gonna believe the surprise we've got in store for you." Jona smirked

"'When artificial intelligence reaches that point, humanity's true value will be put to the test.' Those were Epstein's words when he predicted the existence of a technological singularity." Schmidt said. "If you want to prove there's still a place for us in this new future, you'd better spring ahead full-bore and prove it."

"You can count on that!" Rean smirked.

"I see you all are having a lovely chat." A voice said as coming in was Zhongli, Black Swan, Nahida, Ei, Miko, Mavuika, Furina, Aether, Kamek, Acheron, Stelle, Caelus, Dan Heng, March 7th, Himiko, and Welt approached.

"Oh hey, my siblings! And the Astral Express too!" Levi smiled. "What brings you here?"

"We came to give Kevin the good news involving the Sonorous Seashell." Zhongli pull out the Sonorous Seashell. "Here."

"Oh!" Kevin had an ! over his head as he and Ries approached. "The Sonorous Seashell! It's good as news!"

"But... it was badly damaged, wasn't it?" Ries look confused.

"It was, yes. But we repaired the artifact." Tio smiled

"You repaired the artifact?!"

"You guys are amazing! I can't believe you managed to fix the artifact!" Kevin exclaimed. "It looks good as new!"

"Who do you think you're talking to, boy?" Schmidt asked, folding his arms. "Although I will admit, it's far more difficult than expected, we were able to analyze it thanks to our combined efforts."

"Yeah, we were able to analyze and got some amazing data with the guiding hands, and our technology is enhanced thanks to the Mushroom Kingdom, Bowser's Kingdom, and Atlas." Tio replied.

"However, while we were repairing it. We detected the Chaos Heart's power. It's unlike anything we've seen before." Kamek informed. "Thankfully, we were able to cleanse it which helped us repair it easily. We gave it a few test runs and everything is working fine."

Ries frown."But still… for us Gralsritter to get help from witches and Warlocks. How ironic."

"Think nothing of it." Aether smiled. "What matters is that you got your artifact back. And of course, we also know who stole it too."

"Right, the other Rean." Kevin takes the Sonorous Seashell. "I'll be sure to inform the church of your work and hope to compensate you for your efforts in restoring the artifact. But how did you manage to restore the artifact?"

"You're talking to multiple geniuses with great level of technology and magic." Kokonoe fold her arms. "Schmidt, E. Gadd, Aether, my Mom, Tio, Kamek, Ludwig, Zhongli, Ei and I work together on repairing. As Schimidt said, it was difficult, but thankfully, with the technology we possess, we were able to repair it by analyzing and cleansing the Chaos Heart's power."

"The Chaos Heart was difficult to purge from it. But once we removed that, we got to work gathering and scanning every detail about it, and noticed the damaged area, a few dismantling, and there we go." Aether smiled.

"This was actually quite a boon experience for me." Schmidt said. "Never once can anyone analyze the artifact. It was beyond the understanding of the current technology. But thanks to multiple efforts of geniuses, including the technology the Mushroom Kingdom, Bowser's Kingdom and Atlas, we were able to make a full understanding of the artifacts and its powers. The data we've received will be very interesting for me to look over. For that, you have my thanks for involving me in the reparation, Mr. Zhongli."

"I'm glad to hear that, Professor." Zhongli smiled until he got a look like he remember something. "Ah, yes. I forgot to informed you all involving some details that we forgot to include."

"Some details?" Rixia asked.

"Yes. However, we should discuss elsewhere. Follow me." Zhongli said as he taken the team else where.

(BGM ended)

The group walk and enter the Mirror leading to the World Within.

(Kingdom Hearts: 0.2 Birth by Sleep -A fragmentary passage- The World Within)

"All right. Allow me to apologize to all of you about forgetting to include the details involving our investigation." Zhongli said.

"There's no need to apologize, but what do you need to discuss?" Lloyd asked.

"Do you recall that presence that Rean and Levi sense?" Himeko asked. "Well, truth is, Zhongli, certain others and Palkia sense someone from a different reality has visit this world."

"What do you mean a different reality?" Elie asked

"Have you guys heard of the multiverse?" Acheron asked.

"What's that?" Tio asked.

"The multiverse is an entirely different universe, distantly separated from ours. It is quite different from other worlds. Other worlds is a new unknown territories Like the Radiant Garden that Lord Rufus's group went to. It was entirely different from what you expected, right?"

"Oh yeah! It was incredible. Everything was so different compared to our world." Nadia nodded.

"It's like that. However, the multiverse is parallel version of our universe. A universe that is identical to our universe, but different. For example, Zemuria. In a parallel world of Zemuria, you will encounter another version of yourselves, except their personality is different from yours. Like Caelus for example. He's energetic. But this parallel version of him is... lazy for example. He would be lying around, eating snacks and never been bold. While our Caelus is the opposite of that Caelus. Does that explain it?"

So what you're saying is in a mirror version of our universe?" Celine asked.

"In a sense, yes. These can be confirmed through science, speaking to the gods, and magic. There are an infinite number of parallel universes that is identical to ours, but at the same time, it is not."

"Wow. I thought other worlds were mindblowing but another universe similar to ours?" Juna asked

"So why did you bring this up?" Neve asked.

"It involve the mysterious "glare" that the Titans, others, Rean and Levi felt. But it turns out.. thanks to the help of the Spacial Pokemon: Palkia. We learn that that "glare" was actually someone from a different universe has entered ours."

Everyone had an !? over their heads.

"Someone from a different universe came into ours?!" Rufus asked in surprise.

"That's right." Nahida nodded. "However, we don't know who it was who cam into our universe. Palkia and us been investigating this mysterious visitor for some time but found no clue. At first, we thought we were imagining, but Palkia can directly confirm that it was someone."

"And the biggest problem is that we don't know which universe this person came from. We look throughout the multiverse and found nothing." March sighed.

"And now here we are." Stelle said. "No clues still."

"And then this matter involving the Chaos Heart. We investigated the realm of darkness and found the Chaos Heart is there." Caelus said.

"But now this other Rean has the power of the Chaos Heart." Black Swan said. "But we don't know how it is possible for him to possess that power."

"Right. Because it doesn't make sense. Normally if someone has the power of the Chaos Heart, the Chaos Heart would disappear and be with its controller. It's no different to Kingdom Hearts." Furina nodded.

"But now the other Rean has the power of the Chaos Heart, yet the Chaos Heart is still within the realm of darkness. It should not be possible for it to be there. There is something we are missing."

"Hmm. Yes, you're right..." Rean rub his chin. "Thanks for telling us this. We'll get the bottom of this once we confront that other me."

"Yeah. We have a lot of questions to ask of him." Levi nodded.

Lloyd was lost in his thought as he supported his chin as he thinks. 'The Chaos Heart, a visitor from a different dimension, Sombron's benefactor, Irmensul tainted by the Chaos Heart, Elysium stolen from Irmensul, discrepancies with simulacra... and 'prophetic conditional convergence calculations. It feels like the pieces are finally starting to come together. All that's left is for us to confront the true culprit behind everything. We've done it before, and we'll do it again. We've done it before, and we'll do it again. We'll solve this case—just you watch, guy!'

(BGM ended)

---

Alisa and Alhaitham...

Alisa sighed. "Man, what a day it was."

"I brought you some water. Here." Alhaitham walk up and handed her water as she takes it.

(Fire Emblem Engage ost - Caring)

"Thanks Alhaitham." Alisa smiled. "*Sigh* Here I thought it would be over but... Here we are again... But now the scale is higher than ever."

"Understandable. I never predicted this would happened. But we've learn a lot today. It's only a matter of time until we solve this case completely. But until then, we rest until the operation begin. It's going to be a difficult battle. But... I have a feeling we'll make it out of this."

"You'll thank you?"

"I know so. I know that you deserve a long break after all of this. You work so hard, and you deserve it."

"Aww, thanks Alhaitham. But unfortunately I still have a lot to do. It not going to be easy." Alisa said as she sighed.

"Life never is. But I know that we will prevail. And once we do, we can earn that break." Alhaitham said. "Say, Alisa. Once this is over, why don't the two of us go somewhere together?"

Alisa blinked. "Where exactly?"

"A date."

Alisa had an ! over her head. "A D-Date?"

"Yes. A date. I know a good restaurant here in Crossbell. And I'm sure you want to try it out. Would you be interested?" He asked with a smirk on his face.

"Ah..." Alisa blushed a bit and then chuckled. "You know what. Sure. So I hope you can treat me for a good time."

"I know I will. Because, I also want to show you a view. Something you will find incredible Just as you."

"Alhaitham." Alisa smiled.

"Heh." Alhaitham turn his head to the sky. "Hey, Alisa... maybe I'll be straightforward with you. After this is over..." He turn to Alisa. "Would you consider... that we start dating?"

"Ah..." Alisa blushed. "Ehehe... You know... Yeah." She smiled. "I like that."

"I'm glad to hear it."

---

With Renne...

Renne was walking the harbor until she spotted Noel looking at the view of Retributive Tower.

"What brings you here to the harbor, Noel?" Renne approached.

"I was just thinking about that tower. And the battle we'll soon face." Noel answered. "This will be the first time in all these years we'll be working together."

"Ah." Renne stare at the view. "Now that you brought it up, the only time we work together was my time as an Enforcer in Liberl."

"Yeah. Much has happened during our time with the society... Do you remember when we first met?"

"I do." Renne nodded. "It was when Loewe was training you. You and I met. We ended up in an argument because of how you smell."

"Hehe, right. But you were too young to understand. We were kids bickering at each other. And Loewe scolded us." Noel chuckled. "I miss those days when we got alone. We both like Loewe because he's an older brother figure to us. He was kind behind that emotionless face."

"He really was." Renne smiled. "Because of him and your mom, we end up getting to know more about each other. I'm glad that you and I weren't the only kids at the time. And that we have something in common. About us being victims of the cult. That we love Loewe and the Steel Maiden."

"Yeah..." Noel stare at the water. "Hey... Renne... I... wanted to ask you something."

"Hm?" Renne turn her head as Noel look sad at her.

"Why did you leave me too?"

Renne had an ! over her head as she look sad.

"..."

"Ever since Loewe died... Luciola went missing... I felt... my friends are disappearing one by one. But... then you disappeared. You left without saying a word. I was... heartbroken. I thought that you perish too."

"Noel... I..." Noel raised his hand to stop, Renne from speaking.

"I know. It's okay." He smiled warmly. "You just... wanted time for yourself. But..." Noel turn to the water. "The Professor wanted you back. At the time... I wanted to find you too and take you back. I... never understood why. But... I eventually found out. That I..." Noel place his hand over his chest. "That I really do admire you Renne. That you... are my dear friend. I love being your friend. And you mean so much to me. Even now."

"Noel..." Renne sadden as she hold her left off. "Hehe. Look at you becoming so melodramagic."

"Hehe. I'm just being honest. But... I'm really glad you chosen a better life, Renne. You've change so much. Unlike me. Someone with a pretty face... but dark and twisted."

Renne shook her head. "No, Noel. You've changed too. And I like this side of you. You're... more attractive that way."

Noel stare in surprised then smiled. "Thanks, Renne." He then approach her and hug her.

"..." Renne said nothing but then hug back.

Forgotten to them, Emblem Arianrhod and Emblem Loewe was watching them from the distance.

"Ah... Young Love." Emblem Arianrhod smiled.

"Noel has been holding that side of him in, hasn't he?" Emblem Loewe asked.

"Yes. But I'm glad that he's able to tell her how he feels."

"That he miss her... and that he likes her. And Renne respond in kind." Emblem Loewe smiled. "Do you think they'll finally make it official?"

"Only time will tell. But..." Emblem Arianrhod stare at the hugging Noel and Renne. "I really do hope one day... they can confess their feelings for each other."

"Me too." Emblem Loewe agreed. "So, how was your time with the society?"

"Nothing's change. But I'm not the Anguis as you know. But speaking of the society. Everyone wanted to meet you. More specifically, Mcburn."

"Hmph. I rather not deal with him as I did with Walter."

"Hehe. But he does miss you you know." Emblem Arianrhod smiled.

"Only to fight me." Emblem Loewe fold his arms.

"Be that as it may, he does treasure you as his friend."

"Heh." Emblem Loewe light laugh. "I'll see it when I hear him say it."

---

With Lloyd and Elie...

"Our final battle is almost upon us. Do you think you're ready, Elie?" Lloyd asked

"Of course." Elie place her hand over her chest. "I'm always ready."

"Hehe. Glad to hear it. We will make it out of this. And once we make this case close..." Lloyd takes Elie's hand and face her. "I want to spend every hour with you. And... I want to the day where we meet with your parents and ask for their blessing."

"Lloyd..." Elie blushed as she smiled. "Ehehe." Her tears of joy came out. "You don't have to do that. I know they'll accept you."

"Hehe. Maybe. But... I want them to know that I promise that I will be there for you in every step of the way. My... future bride."

"Oh, Lloyd." Elie smiled. "I love you." She lend in and kiss Lloyd, as he kidd back and wrap his arms around her as she wrap her arms on his neck, deepening the kiss and move their lips in sync.

---

Rean and Levi...

"Time is almost upon us, Rean." Levi said. "This battle... reminds me with Organization XIII and the Great Twilight"

"Yeah. But... We can overcome the Great Twilight. Just as we did with Organization XIII and beyond that." Rean smiled. "Are you... feeling afraid?"

"Hehe... You notice, huh?" Levi turn to Rean. "Of course I am. I'm... very afraid right now." He place his hand over his chest. "Because... a few days ago... I almost watch you died... and I just stood there in fear... feeling powerless for the first time." His tears came out. "I... It's funny... I'm... suppose to be a god... and now... I don't feel any godly, don't I?"

Levi look at his hands. "I made a promise that I'll protect you... but I fail twice... when Infintite... he... he..."

"Levi. Look at me." Rean place his hand on Levi's cheeks and wipe his tears for him. "Don't cry. It hurts me to see you like this. What happened was very natural. I do not blame you. Because if things were reverse... I would feel that way too."

"Rean..." Levi touch Rean's hand. "*sigh* They're warm... Your kind... warm hands are so warm."

"Same with you. My light." Rean smiled. "Levi, we will make it out of this together. And I have no intention of dying either. I won't let what happen to me happen again. Even if the odds are against us... or our senses are nulltrlized again. I will not leave your side."

"Rean..." Levi warm smile as he softly nuzzled Rean's hand as Rean place both hands on Levi's cheek, pull him for a kiss. "Mm..."

Their lips were in sync with each other until Rean pull away.

"Levi. When we make it out of this. There is somewhere I want to take you." Rean smiled

"Take me where?" Levi asked

"You'll find out." Rean smiled as he place his forehead on Levi. "Okay?"

Levi smiled. "Okay."

Rean then pull Levi for another kiss and Levi kiss back. Levi wrap his arms around Rean's waist and Rean respond in kid. They deepen their kiss as Levi's tear drop to the floor.

Emblem Micaiah and Emblem Roy were watching from the distance as they look at each other with a smile on their faces.

---

The final Battle with Chaos Rean is upon us everyone. Are you feeling excited? I know I am.