Blazing Steel and Freezing Bullets

by Shinn of Destiny

Left alone in a blazing forest, Relon is soon saved and the path before him opens. With much to learn about such as his past, family, friends, even the very people trying to destroy the peace and him to an extent, his enrollment at Thors will be anything but normal.

60. From Zero To Hope Part 5

Gachas like Genshin Impact, Zenless Zone Zero, Wuthering Waves, Honkai Star Rail, as well as others like Love Live, Blue Lock, Gundam, Quintessential Quintuplets, Highschool DXD are in the works. Check them out :D

Anyone just a fan of fanfiction, my current works or just wanna vibe; come on through.

Discord (Vibing Nation) - GZM5HRMntp

Discord Name - Shinnofdestiny

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Relon Lucinance was a hybrid. A being with the blood of both a human and an elemental. His humanistic skills were honed by the most skilled masters on the continent. To fight and not lose. His elemental mastery was his own. The tutelage of his teachers had guided him far in his life but there came a point when everything taught could not prepare him for an experience so specific…

Rage and agony; It was irony in its purest form.

The emotion of rage was one he knew all too well. Ever since that day with Arentula's brother, the cinders left behind remained dormant within. Cinders, ignited once more during his test against his surrogate father. Time after time, he'd lose control only to finally grasp that once unknown power. Nameless' power was like an approaching storm. As a child, he knew he would have to eventually come to terms with using it

Due to his constant encounter with the emotion, it became simple to comprehend. Being upset made him stronger. Reliving specific moments of unbridled rage unlocked the dormant power Nameless held deep within. Thus Spirit Unification was born. It was the convergence of Relon's own body and strength alongside the fully unlocked powers the spirit that inhabited said vessel.

With their own relationship mended, an understanding once unknown now made, their power only grew. Not in strength, but rather comfortability. Relon did not forget the scars that allowed him control of such a raw form. But, the process and burden of having to delve upon such scars wasn't as needed. Only the intent, like a phantom pain one got through sheer touch along at the prospect of being injured, was needed.

Withdrawing such thoughts only now made his own strength that much more powerful.

In this limbo he currently floated within, he realized it.

The cause behind his dull eyes.

The moment he emerged in Alter Erebonia, the time Munechika revealed her tragic tale, his fury against Shizuna in Calvard, his duel against Zero in his mindscape, and then his union with Helios. Helios' own mind merging with his own unlocked unfathomable levels of detestation at the very essence of Zero.

Even against Asuma, he only now realized it.

How mad at so much he was.

Every instance since then, of those six moments, he unleashed so much rage. So much of his anger lied not at a singular point of focus but rather a set of many. Like the base of a tree, his focus, consciously and unconsciously divided weaving continuously until he could not keep count. So lost in the fury at so many, numerous thoughts attempted to override the dominant, most upset attribute.

Thus, the sole cause behind his dulled eyes became apparent. By losing one's own mind, by clearing all thoughts and even speech of nothing but causes for multiple accounts worthy of such malice, scorn, contempt, and fury, an enhancement nearly equivalent to stage 2 Lucinances exhibited.

The moment he took hold of Helios' power, the instant he accessed it, within that brief lapse in time; he felt. A potency far superior to when he vanquished Zero.

His anger attribute, what made him a Lucinance, was truly a dangerous trait to have on Earth. In the wrong hands of those unguided, if one could learn this trait, their own strength could be increased to unfathomable levels that even local legends would succumb to.

His mind shivered.

His clan, the only one gifted with venturing and establishing a home on Earth, was responsible for the attribute that was the opposite of the kindness they were known for. To be trusted by the Goddess that governed all; it filled his mind with pride.

Pride at being born a Lucinance. Pride at being loved by such wonderful beings. Pride at simply knowing of their existence.

Then there lied the trigger to that next stage.

Agony.

He knew next to nothing of the emotion. He couldn't recall a time he loathed such. The Great Elder's passing filled him with rage. An unnecessary death that occurred due to one's own perspective warped by the history of their surroundings, manipulated by a being wishing to act as God.

To experience something such as the loss of one dear, he didn't like it. Not one bit. The pain he felt, it was a flash of familiarity to that night in Ymir. The surge of newfound yet unfamiliar power brim to the touch.

How did he even know it to be "agony?"

He didn't know how he knew. He just… did.

He'd never ridden a bike but he was sure balancing himself while moving would be easy. The same principle went for this new emotion. He hadn't experienced it before yet he just knew how potent it was.

He used it to destroy the reactor.

He used it to free their friends and innocents.

He used it… to kill Laura.

Grief

The world lied in a red tint.

The repetitious sounds of piercing skin dulled his senses.

"R-Relon, I'm… sorry… "

He realized it a moment too late.

All his eyes, enhanced to their newfound limit, could do was slowly watch his blade cut her open. Every rege, down to the molecular atoms extinguished before him.

Even if by a nanosecond, he could have altered her fate.

Instead her corpse laid before him, a charred hold delved diagonally from the corner of her shoulder across her chest to the bottom edge of her abdomen.

Eyes, devoid of life, remained opened. Goldish Amber, lifeless and cold, bore into vermilion.

He wished it was not him but whatever lied past. Except they didn't. Their line of sight ceased at him.

He was the last person she spoke to.

He was the last person she felt anything from.

He was the last thing she saw.

This world, even if not his own, no longer held Laura S. Arseid.

Manipulated by evil, the radiant lion fearless before any foe now had their blood pool around him.

This was no dream.

This was only reality.

This was simply a nightmare. One he had to claim… as his world.

Anger

"Why? Why did you have to get in the way at the last second?!" He roared, dropping before her corpse. "Damn it, Laura, why didn't you dodge?! Why did you have to be a hero and save that villain?"

He could only look on as she laid before him. With a gentle hand, he brought her close.

The blood spilling onto himself didn't matter. He had murdered his best friend. He had slain an innocent woman. He killed a victim.

Her body, stained in red, felt warm to the touch. The once blue hair she prided herself in now hung singed diagonally.

"It's all my fault. Had I- Had I just done something different…!"

"Fool." One look and there lied his tenant, hulking form and all, towering over him. "The life of one for many is a pungent falsehood I've seen. Believing all can be saved without casualties is an even greater illusion. Our action, yours and mine, was not wrong!"

Relon, lost in his woes, took those words to heart. Instead of lingering in his mind, he spat them back.

"If so… then why? WHY DID THE ONE PERSON I CARED MOST ABOUT, THE ONE FRIEND THAT MEANS MORE TO ME THAN ANYTHING, HAVE TO DIE?! WHY DID SHE HAVE TO BE WARPED BY THAT… THAT FUCKER ZERO, HUH?! WHY DID THE ONLY PERSON, THE ONE WHO KNEW ME AND I KNEW THEM HAVE TO BE SEEMINGLY THE ONLY 'CASUALTY?' ANSWER ME, HELIOS!"

Silence.

"Heh, it's the same thing all over again."

"It is not."

"AND HOW WOULD YOU KNOW, HUH?! YOU WEREN'T THERE! YOU DIDN'T SEE DEMETER SNAP HER FINGERS AND MASSACRE THE ARMY IN AN INSTANT! SEPHIROTH ALLOWED FOR SO MUCH PAIN AND DISCOURSE! ZERO HAS DONE THE EXACT SAME THING! DON'T STAND THERE AND TELL ME THEY'RE NOT! BOTH ARE EVIL! BOTH HAVE MALEVOLENCE! AND BOTH TIMES IT'S ME! I'M THE CAUSE BEHIND THE DEATH! IT'S MY FAULT SHE'S GONE, JUST LIKE THE OTHERS! NOTHING'S CHANGED! THE MOMENT I STOPPED BEING CLOSED OFF AND HAPPY, I LET MY GUARD DOWN AND LOOK, HELIOS! LOOK! LAURA'S DEAD! MY BEST FRIEND, THE WOMAN I…"

"Relon."

"WHAT?! YOU'RE GOING TO TELL ME IT'S OKAY TO MOURN?! TO SUCK IT UP MAYBE BECAUSE 'LAURA WOULDN'T LIKE ME LIKE THIS?' GUESS WHAT, I HAVE A RIGHT TO FEEL EMOTIONS! I'M HUMAN TOO! I'M NOT JUST SOME BEING! I WAS RAISED AS A HUMAN! I'M MORE THAT THAN ELEMENTAL! I HAVE FEELINGS TOO! I LOVE MY FRIENDS! I LOVE MY FAMILY! SEEING NEITHER EXIST; HOW DO YOU THINK I FEEL?! OH WAIT, YOU'RE JUST LIKE THAT JERK NAMELESS! LOOKING INTO MY MIND AND ASSUMING YOU JUST GET IT!"

"You're wrong."

"OH? AM I?! DO TELL, OH GREAT DRAGON THAT CAME FROM BUM FUCK NOWHERE, HOW AM I WRONG?!"

Silence.

"DON'T YOU DARE GO QUIET NOW! YOU DON'T GET TO DO WHAT YOU WANT! YOU CAME IN ME! IN MY BODY WITHOUT MY PERMISSION! TALK!"

All Helios did next, was turn and fly away.

"COWARD! YOU THINK YOU CAN JUST DO WHAT YOU WANT! YOU THINK I'M SOME KID YOU CAN JUST IGNORE! GET BACK HERE! HELIOS!"

Out of sight the dragon left leaving the hybrid all alone.

He believed the sin committed was grave. Indeed it was yet he couldn't rewind the clock. Life was forcing him to move forward. As much as he wanted to, he couldn't.

"AAAAAAAARRRRRRRGGGGGHHHHHHH!"

All of this because he… opened his heart.

Bargaining

He hadn't realized how much time had passed. Honestly, he didn't care.

His stomach ached, attempting to respond to the flaring emotions his body sported. He didn't know whether to give in to agony or let his rage take the reins. He didn't care.

He had attempted to mend the wound as best as possible on the lifeless woman. It didn't matter but he still wanted to make her presentable out of respect. It was the least a failure like him could do.

"What a shame."

Instinctively, he snapped, unleashed a spew of flames. Dying out, what remained was himself.

"Seriously? I'm not Zero, stupid."

It was indeed another Relon, except he couldn't sense the evil or negative emotions as he had the last time he was in his subconscious. Slitted eyes and exuding power of heat were the only giveaways indicating this other Relon to be real.

"Who are you?" He demanded in a quiet tone, holding closely to Laura.

"You, obviously. Ever heard of the five stages of grief? Welp, you're mentally screwed up to the point you unconsciously manifested someone to talk to logically. Given Nameless is still dormant and you yelled away his substitute."

"I-"

"Don't believe you," Alter-Relon cut off.

"... The fact that-"

"I can do that is both dumb and stupid. You're telling me. Now we're wondering if Nameless or Helios is somehow involved."

"Everyone just loves reading me…"

"You made that one obvious, other me."

"... I'm crazy."

"Pfft, have you seen your family? Both by the way. Crazy runs in the genes and you adopted that habit from Dad well."

Hearing Alter-Relon move around to eye the downed male, he doesn't meet his gaze. Instead, his own returned to Laura.

"She's gone-" Before he could finish, Relon was on his feet, hands gripping Alter-Relon's collar.

"Don't! Just… don't."

"Look at her then." In doing so, there no longer lied the woman, no groove in the ground, no spec of blood. Just empty ground. "As fleeting as your emotions, so too was her life."

"L-Laura?" As quick as he had been filled with fury, worry took its place. "Laura! LAURA! Where did you take her?! Where did she go?!"

"You know as well as I do that she was never real here. The same as me. Just figments of your imagination you're attempting to preserve."

His body tensed as his teeth gritted against each other.

"You…"

"Relon, if you want to fight it out, we can. But it won't solve anything. You said so yourself; you're tired. Let's just-"

"LET'S TALK?!" He pivoted, jumping to send a kick for Alter-Relon to block with no effort. "FINE!" He threw a punch to be effortlessly blocked. "THE MOMENT I BEGAN TO ACT HAPPY AGAIN, I SLIPPED! IF I DIDN'T THEN SHE'D BE ALIVE! MAKE THAT MAKE SENSE!"

"You, a victim of bad circumstances, finally decided after days of self-loathing to attempt to be happy. In doing so, you conjured a plan that worked nearly flawlessly."

"THEN!" Relon moved back to launch a kick for Alter-Relon to catch it. "HAD I NOT USED SOLAR IMPACT, THEN CLAIRE WOULDN'T HAVE BEEN HURT AND LAURA WOULD BE ALIVE!"

"Had you not, then Rean and the others would have retaliated in a way that would have possibly made the battle more difficult given the state of things."

"Tch! IF… If…" He jumped back to unleash a torrent of flames. "IF I WAS STRONGER…!"

"ENOUGH!" Seemingly as though his own strength was nothing, Alter-Relon's flames broke through Relon's own striking him, sending him off his feet.

Wincing from the blunt force, he shakily rolls over to be lifted just off the ground.

"MUSSE'S GONE AND LAURA IS TOO! THEY'RE BOTH DEAD! WE KILLED HER! LIVE WITH IT, OWN IT! ONE LAURA OUT OF THE COUNTLESS OTHERS IS GONE! THIS WORLD'S LAURA ISN'T COMING BACK! ONLY LUNA CAN DO THAT! IF YOU WANT TO CRY ABOUT IT THEN CRY, BUT DON'T SULK AS THOUGH YOU CAN'T DO NOTHING! DON'T YOU DARE DISRESPECT HER!" With that, Relon was sent to the ground. "Live with your mistake but accept that you made it and move on."

When he looked back, his other self was no more. Yet, his words struck true whether he wished to admit it or not.

His other self was right, he could do something. He just needed to figure out what. In this realm where thought existed, he simply began to walk. He didn't know where, and honestly, he couldn't care.

It was a fake reality; a dream. Absolute and just. Whatever happened here no longer mattered.

Simply a dream.

A dream where he had to live… and learn.

Depression

"My name is Laura S. Arseid. Daughter of Viscount Arseid. A pleasure to be training with you."

He didn't know how long he'd been walking.

"I knew this day would come. I accepted that fact. We are both practitioners of the sword as well as fellow students. But I say this not as either but rather as your best friend; Be careful out there."

Honestly, Relon couldn't bring himself to care.

"I, Laura S. Arseid, daughter of the Radiant Blademaster and practitioner in the Arseid School shall be your opponent. What say you?"

Whether one world or another was real or not didn't matter.

"He is my first rival. We are both students in the way of the sword. We grew up together for two years. We trained together, fought together, ate together, lived together. He is the one for whom I too cherish deeply as he was and still is my first ever friend. To me, he is someone irreplaceable. That, is our relationship."

Through the lavish greenery of forestry, through the chilled depths of caverns, outside amongst the frozen tundra, into the molten core of lave; he continued, blind to the path's end.

"I'm sorry if this may sound cruel but now is not the time to weep and sulk. Right now, we need that blazing fury and rage you're renowned for if we hope to survive. So please, if not for us, then for Shenhe and even the Great Elder, don't let their deaths be in vain. She gave up her life for you because she believed just as I do that you can help stop this battle. They both did. Now stand, Relon. We need you."

He hadn't bothered to inspect his surroundings, where he was didn't matter.

"Because you're my world. I don't want to live in a world without you. A life like that is much worse than anything Senate can do, even more than… my mother."

Regardless of where he ended up, he could… never turn back.

Acceptance

Waves crashed against the shore in slow repetition. The sound of a boasting child could be heard from the confines of a cabin as the sun, unusually bright, shone, beating down upon both his skin.

"Tear, Snow, come on!" A voice called. Then came a set of meows accompanied by jingles.

Out came a young girl being chased by two cats.

Likely in her early teens around Rinwell's age, the girl held a fair complexion, navy and gold eyes, and navy-blue hair cut into a bob style, with two long, low ponytails reaching her elbows with golden ornaments leaving some of her hair wrapped around it in a bun. She has a small golden hairpin on her right side, a large golden tiara adorned with black, red, and blue orbs, as well as another golden ornament behind her tiara.

Her outfit consisted of a black and white top with thin red straps that bared her midriff adorned with a golden center ornament, a white collar lined with green, a red split cape, detached sleeves of similar colors, and a two-piece pleated skirt in both white and green with gold embellishments. Running along the clean, fresh grass, she ran barefoot. Accessories such as anklets at her thigh and foot as well as fingerless gloves laid strapped.

The most distinct trait; clear along her exposed midriff showed two wave-like markings, a red and blue, connected.

Immediately, he saw it. Another Laura. Different, but the similarities were there. Nearly the spitting image of her. It was so accurate it was uncanny. Yet, he could sense it clearly. She was a Lucinance. The flames he held when he was her age now paled in comparison.

"We gotta hurry! Mama and Old Mettle will be done counting soon!" The girl urged, heading further off into the distance. Within moments, came a large greatsword with a normal-sized hilt teal at the bottom transitioning to a reddish color. Between directions it looked before comedically looking down to the clear footprints of girl and feline.

"Old Mettle, have you found where Yunli and the others ran off to? Hmm?" Their eyes met, that of near-death enraptured by the existence of an unfathomable life. "Old Mettle, go on ahead. I'll catch up," the woman said, moving in his direction. It complied, flying off in the direction the girl went.

Even as the clear mother of the young girl approached, his eyes dared not look away. The way she walked, those golden-amber eyes, that tender smile, the blue hair kept in a high ponytail by a familiar black scrunchie.

"L-Laura?" His voice was strained, yet the simple acknowledgement of that name caused the woman to stop.

Desperate eyes scanned every inch of her form. Everywhere he looked, her body reacted. To his voice, to his body, to his very presence.

Tears trickled down his face, as though his own body was reacting to her. For a reason he could not fathom why she was crying.

Through what could only be described as trepidation, she reached her hand. Shakily, he mirrored the gesture. Bit by bit, their wavering eyes lifted as did their hands until they locked on the other's.

"Relon?"

Her voice, clearly more mature, was without a doubt recognizable. Octaves had deepened only slightly but he still recognized it anywhere. That alone made him finally give in.

His legs, now noodles, flopped atop the soft sand as he gagged at the emotional dam about to burst.

"I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry, Laura!"

On and on he wept, the ache in his body never subsiding no matter how many times he apologized.

"Had I been stronger, if I had done something different, then you wouldn't… I could have…!" His teeth clenched in remorse. Even before another Laura, he felt weak all over again. "I'm sorry…"

"Some things never change."

Her words were like a blade. Experienced yet sharp. He could only blink towards the ground at how easy her words sliced through his woes.

"Hic… Huh?"

The moment he lifted his head, he felt it. Flames all too familiar in the color red encompassed the two in a fiery helix as an embrace of endearment washed over him.

He recognized these flames. They were the same as his own, yet Laura was creating them. How was that possible?

That's when the words of Luna resurfaced.

"During her months of childbirth, your mother began to exhibit traits similar to female Lucinances. The ability to wield otherworldly fire. An element not the same as arts and magic humans and witches use. The markings from transforming. Even the female's special ability known as Overdrive."

"You're a Lucinance." His voice was muffled due to her chest but she understood. He felt her nod in acknowledgement. "Then, that girl…" Another nod, his body weakened further yet he mustered his arms to hold her.

Just as he previously cradled the once deceased woman protecting him from the openness of possibilities, she now held him. The tender touch as both a mother but even more so as a friend. The flames of rage were not but a burning maelstrom of understanding. An elemental's gift to another for consolement. To help grasp the meaning behind not isolation but reintegration.

The bond once believed to have been severed, lost amongst the sea of anguish and discourse had been caught. Reached by a burning desire to protect and instill new hope.

"You passed away saving us all from Senate." It was words he didn't expect to hear. "Claire, Musse, and myself were an honest wreck. We all were. You left behind a big hole. I mean, it goes without saying you left an even bigger impact." How she managed to chuckle while holding him, he didn't know. "But… it eventually was filled." Feeling her body shift, he followed it as the flames died down. Once again, far off in the distance he saw her, that same teenage girl. Cheek out in a pout as the sentient greatsword hovered next to her. "By our daughter, Yunli."

"I… became a dad?"

"Mhm. It's amazing how much she looks like me but acts like you. I quickly understood how father felt raising me. At least he had Klaus, just as I have Claire and Musse."

"But, Laura, what I did… I-"

"Relon, you care for Laura correct?" Her eyes never left Yunli, but his did.

"I… do."

"Then you mustn't dither. Just as my Relon ensured our future to be full of longevity, you must do the same regardless of what has already transpired. Wallowing in despair in not a bad act. You allowing me to see such a side, I have always and forever will be thankful. Now, just as you always have thus far, you must heed my words and raise both your fists and your blades!"

Once again, the flames of rage emerged in a funnel obstructing their view of the outside world. Yet, that red that bathed his eyes were not alone. Another red, humanistic, appeared before his eyes.

"Laura, you're…!"

True to his gasping words unable to finish, there she stood. Golden-amber eyes and blue hair no more. In their place, fiery red radiated a power similar to his own, yet far more greater.

"I shall admit…" Unlike his transformation, her voice wasn't layered yet he maintained full focus regardless. "It ached how long it took for our relationship to bloom unlike yours and Claire's so if you could, don't keep my younger self waiting. Okay?"

He was at a loss for words. She was beautiful and kind. Every bit the Laura that he knew.

"I.. I'll try."

"Good." Alongside that smile, he felt a tug. That alone made him blink as the world began to blur inwards. "It seems your time here is up. Alas, I wish we could have spoken just a bit longer. Still, I'm thankful to have had this chance. Your Perception of Time is certainly different from my Relon's. Regarding your other love interests, no matter how many, don't hold back. Not for Claire's sake or mine. And no matter what, always remember this." Her form ceased as a tender smile, full of nothing but love, graced her features. "I love you, Relon. Always and forever."

His voice hitched as those words coiled around his mending heart. It ached, but in a good way now. He felt no resistance as a response came. More than anything, it felt like one of the most natural things to ever leave his mouth.

"I love you too, Laura."

That's right. Even if he fell a step or two back. He had to move forward.

Even as the world went black, the kindling flame that existed within Laura remained. He grasped it, holding it close as the emotions within it remained.

He mourned longer than what was needed. Now, he had to ensure that this future became his, one where he could watch their daughter grow before his very eyes.

To do that, he had to fight. For Yunli's sake, for Laura's sake, for everyone's sake, but most of all, for his own.

That's when he awoke, willingly leaving it behind… This dream of an absolution.

Real World

"Mmm…" Vision blurring to clarity, Relon found himself in what seemed like a tent of sorts. Question was where exactly was he?

That's when it came; the frantic footsteps nearing his location as it shifted a sliding sound. One look and he was staring up at his wide-eyed cousin.

"Relon!" Relief was clearly written but his own demeanor couldn't reflect such an emotion as he looked forward, his racing mind repeating the recent events.

They had won. Both sides did it. But…

Laura…

Soon, bodies piled around the downed teen as he held his head looking at nothing in particular.

One moment he was still, the next his hand was balling into a fist against his forehead. As though racking his brain for unsolved answers, he quietly allowed tears to roll down.

"Damn it…! It wasn't- She shouldn't… Damn it." He gasped out, his form shaky.

Between the loss of one Laura and his talk with another, his mind needed to vent out the lingering emotions.

"Relon…" Rinwell murmured, placing a hand of comfort on his shoulder.

Everyone around held similar solemn looks. Their reasoning was understandable. Laura was a person close to Relon. Even if this world's Laura wasn't his own, the sight of accidentally killing one so close would clearly and understandably warrant an emotional turmoil.

"I saw her," he mumbled defeatedly. "I couldn't stop in time." His shoulders slumped, tension void of any cause to remain in his body.

"It's not your fault, Relon." Vita was the one to speak up. "You are aware of that, no?" Finally, his weary eyes lifted up past everyone to the woman he called his mother. "Between her being under Zero's control or being dead, which do you believe Laura would want?"

"If living isn't an option…" He purses out dryly, devoid of emotion as he struggles to raise up. Using Pippin as support, he properly faces her. "Then being dead is a close second. For anyone."

It wasn't the exact answer Vita wanted. That much was obvious but it was better than any other possible response he could manage.

"I have tried to make that same choice, what I got was failure.. What I learned is to fight until you can't no more." Shade casually spoke moving closer.

"Once again I failed to save a precious life. And once again, I'm reminded of my weakness and why I have to be stronger." He matches Shade's pace as best he could.

"Turn around and look with your damn eyes, getting stronger is one step yeah, but you can never do it alone!" Shade said, gesturing to everyone. "You have something I don't have… people to rely on. They want to help you any way they can, so take it! But don't take it because I said so, don't take it because you think you need it. Take it so you can help them in return!"

For a moment, his distraught visage warped into impassiveness. Then he placed a hand at his hip. Despite his mournful face, it couldn't stop the deadpan expression that he now adorned.

"I know that. I didn't mean getting stronger was my only resolve, doofus." Releasing a sigh, Relon leans back to fall on Pippin acting as his seat. "Laura's gone. I… can't do anything about that. But just like the people that fought to save me, she fought just as hard. When it mattered most, I couldn't save her from Zero. That's why I have to become strong. But that alone isn't enough, I get that. As I am, I can only go so far." He looks over his shoulder at the others sporting supportive looks. "Look, that last argument we had took a lot and I'm not about to have you doing friendship speeches like Rean so just know I get it. Loud and clear. Besides, even if I went back down that mindset, I wouldn't get very far. Some people just won't leave me alone, right?" He offers a wry smirk at that comment.

"Least I won't have to say it a third time, also with each passing moment the guilt of knocking you out goes away…"

"Oh, the feeling is so mutual, buddy." Relon smiles, forcefully.

"Okay! Let's get along!" Rinwell intervenes, getting in between them.

"But we are getting along. This is our way of doing that." Relon tilts his head.

"This is the way he wanted it. He fought me first after all!" Shade crosses his arms slowly.

"I have no clue whatever you're talking about, mister Shade." Relon eyerolls averting his gaze.

"Grr, it doesn't matter who started what!" Rinwell glowers at the both of them to stop at Relon. "Are we good?"

"Yes, ma'am." He happily sighs.

"Shade?" She turns to him.

"Yeah, yeah. Just don't call me Mr. Shade again, sounds like some failed spy villain, at least use my last name Junge."

"But where's the fun in teasing you if we don't get a reaction?" Relon smiles. "Huh, looks like Magilou has rubbed off on me a little. Whatever." He shrugs, oblivious to the horrified look Rinwell sports.

"NOPE!" She pushes him as he nearly topples off his sword.

"W-Whoa! Hey!"

"Don't ever say that! That's worse than… than… literally anything!" She exclaims in his face.

"Yup, they're definitely okay now." Shizuna chuckles to receive quiet nods of amusement from Vita and Munechika.

"Right now Van and some others are reporting everything that went down to the leaders of the Resistance. You need to rest for now, same with everyone else here." Shade says, causing Relon to don a serious expression.

"Then tomorrow we prepare to end this nightmare once and for all." He closes his eyes for a moment before reopening them to reveal a look of determination in the form of slitted eyes. "I feel livid, beyond so. Shade, let's make Zero regret it. All of it!" Hopping off Pippin, he extends a fist.

"Already planning on it. Speaking of, I had a rather… awful chat with him last night." Shade grins with a hint of disgust.

Blinking his slitted anger away to return to his head tilting, Relon asks the obvious.

"What did you speak about? And why do I feel your conversation with him was worse than my own?"

"Well he also made me fight for all of last night and keep Elaine's life safe, but what he said was…"

Throughout the explanation, Relon simply blinked. A lot actually. It was impressive he managed to not only stand upright with his fist still touching mine and blinking so rapidly for so long.

"What?" He dumbly responded with an eye twitch, likely from so much blinking.

"So I would have been there, to help you and save everyone if it wasn't for him stopping me…" Shade ended with a hint of sadness.

"Oi," Relon calls, pushing against Shade's fist. "What's done is done. No point in living in the past."

"Relon is right," Vita nods in agreement. "If Zero truly is aware of the Ark, then I question both what all he actually knows and why he chooses not to intervene."

"It's all a game to him." Shizuna scowls. "As long as he is aware of what goes on, he won't be perturbed."

"Relon, Shade, Magilou, and I came literally out of nowhere so of course his focus went to us. Relon and Shade even more as they're the 'unique' ones amongst us."

"Hey, you're plenty special too." Relon argues.

"I'm a witch as is Vita. Hootle and Munechika are familiars. Not so special if there's more than one. Not to mention, Sissy. Unlike you two who have crazy healing powers, you, who can wield fire and do all kinds of stuff with Pippin and Pappan. And don't get me started on Shade and his weird self."

"You know, Rinwell, you're being oddly more blunt..." Relon notes wearily.

"War does that I'm afraid, Relon." Vita giggles.

"That it does. I'm still concerned on why he can't look into me like he can you, but that's something I might have to throw to the wayside. Still I got a good idea on what eggs him on, he's pretty much a know it all and wants to hold that over everyone."

"Oh yeah! I totally got under his skin. Mom and I roasted the shit outta that god-complex bastard!"

"Language." Vita chimes giving a chop to Relon's head.

"Ouch!"

Shaking his head at the scene, Shade goes back to the chair in the corner to rest a bit. "I'm lucky I don't have anyone to do that to me, or else I'll have a permanent bump on my head."

"Tell me about it," Relon twitches his eye at the endearing smile his 'mom' wears. "Regardless, tomorrow will come sharp. A lot's happened so we should heed Shade's advice and get some rest."

"Worry us one minute and acting without thoughts the next…" Rinwell grumbles to dismiss the self-comment. "Sounds good." She perks back to her cheery self. "Tomorrow we're in for a lot."

"In two days, it'll all be over…" Shizuna mumbles to eye Relon.

"Um…" Heads turning to the redhead having been quiet this entire time, Relon's own eyes widen in realization of her presence.

"Kallen," He murmurs.

"I… didn't want to interrupt or bother you when you first awoke but, may I… speak with you and Rinwell? In private?"

Without waiting for a response or time to ponder, he nods his head nonchalantly.

"Sure. You okay with that, Rinwell?"

"Yeah, lead the way."

With that, the three departed to an isolated part of the base.

As they walked, one subtle glance at Rinwell told she too was aware of the likely conversation. Stopping shortly after Kallen, she turns to both. Without a moment to say or do anything, she drops groveling before them.

"I'M SORRY! NOTHING I SAY OR DO WILL EVER TURN BACK WHAT HAPPENED! I KNOW THAT AND I'M SORRY! I'M SO, SO, SORRY FOR EVERYTHING I'VE CAUSED! THE HURT, THE INJURY, ALL OF IT! I'VE HURT MANY AND KILLED MORE! I NEARLY KILLED YOU BOTH IN CALVARD!" She shot up with such vigor, the tears trailing down her cheeks flicked to peck Relon's forlorn face.

Both knew already from the moment that she asked to talk where this would lead. It was inevitable and denying such a request outright would only hurt her more. That didn't mean that either weren't hurting either.

One was shot, the other… having suffered worse than a physical wound but rather something emotional. The strongest attack on his being he can now unfortunately state quite factually.

"I DON'T DESERVE TO LIVE! TOO MANY HAVE SUFFERED BECAUSE I FOLLOWED HIS ORDERS! So… so many!" She croaks. "Rinwell…" She sobs. "I'm sorry! I'm sorry for attack you, for attacking and trying to kill the others! For… For… For shooting you!"

Rinwell herself unconsciously held the area that once sported her injury. The pain that was inflicted the other day did hurt. A part of her wondered while unconscious if that was it. But once again, Relon came to her rescue showing just how amazing of a friend and cousin he was.

He too was distraught. He failed to protect her hence the wound. Rinwell knew that and could see how perturbed and bothered he was up until they split to take on the reactors. The rising feelings between him and Shizuna was a great distraction but even she knew it was only that. Relon, when focused on those dear, wouldn't let anything distract his mind. That morning, before departing, the fact that he asked how she was told he hadn't forgotten.

Whether it was his way of watching from afar to see how she was or simply to distract himself, she respected it all the same. After all, he respected her own judgement.

It was odd yet mind-boggling. Days prior, she felt like such a child unable to grasp much. Barely a week later, and she felt like she's not only matured to such a vast extent but also learned more than she could have ever if she was back home. Relon and Shade, of course Magilou too; she couldn't have reached this stage of awesomeness and maturity without them.

Yet it was because of that maturity that she knew. This unfortunate and sorrowful event that they were both experiencing was yet another trial all three had to overcome in order to get through tonight.

Rinwell herself knew her answer to Kallen's heartfelt apology. The decisive factor lied not with her, but her cousin, the lone elemental hybrid the most affected by everything. Quietly, he stepped forward.

"Relon, I… If it wasn't for me, she…!" Too lost in whimpering out incomprehensive sounds, Kallen's shaky for felt something grab her. What she didn't see coming was to be brought into an embrace.

Her eyes shined wide in pure confusion. Eyesight clear for that moment, she saw the smiling face Rinwell and Hootle had donned. Compassion and relief spoke the loudest more than anything.

Only by seeing them did she realize who had initiated the embrace. Sight returning to its blurry wet state, the closeness she held with the trembling figure made it obvious who held her.

"I'm sorry too." He began in a quiet tone. "You asked for help and no one ever came. For your mother, for your own freedom, to be striped away…" He pulled himself back to reveal his own teary eyes. "Kallen, no one should have to experience such cruelty. Not Rinwell, not Shizuna, Munechika, Van, Shade, no one! That includes you!"

Her face scrunched with every sentence. Her eyes quivered as her own form matched his own. Profusely she shook with such defiance, his own nods matched her emotional turmoil as his was the only that could.

"You're wrong!"

"So are you!"

That shook her for the leaky water to finally descend.

"Kallen," he began as Rinwell moved to join the embrace. "We're tired of crying, of losing what we care about. Our lives, yours too, are important! All lives are!"

"But I've taken so much away…!" She attempts to pull back for their hands to grasp hers pulling her back to the redhead's shock. "I don't deserve any of your kindness! I helped take the witches away! I helped take Laura away!"

"Then don't take yourself away from us too!" Rinwell pleads, not even fighting the tears that begin. "Kallen, please!"

"We've lost enough of those precious, we don't want to lose you too! Kallen, I've only seen a little of the pain you suffered but that little is beyond too much! Don't return to it!"

"Relon, Rinwell, I… I can't…"

No matter what either side said, the other would stubbornly insist. This would remain an endless loop until one factor broke the striking tides of conflict.

"My life isn't worth any value…" She moans weakly.

"Every life, no matter how insignificant, holds value. Whether you see it or not doesn't matter. Rinwell sees it, Hootle sees it, my mom, Shizuna, Shade, everyone sees it. Kallen, you like many have a kindred soul deep down. I've seen it! That soul was manipulated! Forced to commit egregious acts and crimes against humanity! It's not your fault! You suffered under the hand of a tyrant. Forced to disregard life just as he does! Kallen!"

"STOP!" She yanks away. "STOP TALKING, STOP FORGIVING ME! JUST… just hate me! It's what I'm used to…"

"I WON'T!" He resnatches her hand looking her directly in her eyes. "I CAN NEVER HATE SOMEONE WHO CARES FOR OTHERS THE WAY YOU DO! DEEP DOWN, EVEN UNDER ZERO YOU FELT FORLORN BECAUSE THAT TINY PART OF YOU STILL KNEW IT WAS WRONG!"

"YET I STILL FOLLOWED A LEADER THAT KILLED INNOCENTS!"

"THEN FOLLOW ME! ONE THAT'LL PROTECT THE INNOCENT!"

Something changed. No rebuttal. No dismissal of a chosen statement. Pure unrecognizable tense silence befell not only their ears but the entire atmosphere.

Relon hadn't known why he said what he said. No. That wasn't right. Not at all.

One lift of his eyes to the still-stunned girl. The defenseless girl who's lost that hope in her eyes told him exactly why he said what he did. Now, he'd follow through with it. Consequences be damned. If he had to face the very negativity of life itself for forcing such a declaration onto one as sincere as Kallen, then he'd bare his fangs, his very being, to strike it for all its insolence.

Uncaring of his own face, he tenderly draws her flabbergasted face in close. With a careful rub at the smudged tear stains, his eyes never leave hers. His heart beated at an unordinary rhythm.

For some reason, it reminded him of his clash with Osborne. Osborne; one who believed in burning away the opposition to continue forward. Relon; the him of back then believing in a way for both sides to achieve an equal ground thus birthing the idea of a "third path."

In this very moment, he could have argued to a standstill alongside Rinwell at the once Zero soldier. At the same time, they could have easily discarded her leaving her off to do what she wanted with her life.

The idea of doing such simple acts was never easy. Even if deep down he wanted to, his body, mind, and soul simply wouldn't allow such an act.

Thus, it occurred. A third option hidden within that gray area the first two subtly manifested.

If she was one locked in her old ways of following orders and a figure that she could look to for both guidance and reassurance, then he would step up. He would become the light that would illuminate her dark past.

"There," he tenderly says to steadily rise.

"What… did you say?" She asks, unperturbed by his previous act.

"You heard me." He could tell the quiet demeanor Rinwell held showed she too was taken aback and would see where he went. His cousin really has come a good way during their short journey. "Follow me. As far as I see it, you and I have both been tainted by malevolence. Therefore, it makes sense for us to watch each other's backs."

"But…"

"You're not Kallen Stadtfeld. Not anymore. Kallen Stadtfeld was associated with Zero. Do you remember what you told me at the reactor?" Like a bulb, her softened eyes return to their large proportions as the tension in her body finally begins to ease.

"I'm Kallen Kozuki…" It was an inward realization but still the dawn of understanding all the same.

"I want Kallen Kozuki, the real Kallen. The one who cares and has a heart. The one who I can put my life in the care of for whatever situation."

Mouth going agape to refute such a claim, she falters.

"What if…" She begins with clear hesitancy. "What if I fail?"

"We're human." It was from Rinwell. "We all mess up. I've messed up plenty and I'm still here. See?"

"Hoot!"

"Messing up is a part of life, Kallen." Relon tenderly rises as does Rinwell to both extend a hand. "It's how we better ourselves."

Before her eyes, she could see them; Zero and Relon. One who took control and clouded her mind and judgment denying any chance of regarding all life as nothing but worthless. Then there was Relon. He was kind, his words and actions emitted a warmth from her heart. Something that simple words could not be put into words. It was unfathomable how kind he still treated her despite all the heinous acts she… her past self committed. Past self…

Looking to their hands, her head slowly turns to the darkness where no one seems to be. To none, maybe, but to her, she could see her clearly; Kallen Stadtfeld. The murderer. The girl who destroyed and committed worse acts if ordered.

"Will you risk becoming such a weakling?" Her past self asked. "Surely, you recognize Lord Zero still needs us. You have your weapons. Just attack! Their guard is down!" It was so easy to do that, wasn't it?

Looking forward to the hands and smiles filled with happiness, she knew what choice she had to make. Feeling her past fade with the touch of skin upon skin, she was pulled to her feet and into an embrace filled with laughter and joy.

All the while as both cheered for her decision, her eyes remained on her lightsource.

Relon Lucinance…

To protect that smile. To ensure not just her new life, but Rinwell's and his own made it to a new day, she'd fight. Even if it meant putting her life on the line. For him, her savior, she'd do anything.

With that heartfelt moment finally passed, the three returned to the group. Immediately, Relon saw Vita give him a look. It was one he'd already grown used to but given the subtle gesture, even he was confused. Forced to look in the direcion, he saw Shizuna looking their way.

"Is everything good between you three?" Vita spoke recapturing his confused gaze.

"Yeah. We're good now," Relon nods as his mother's smile remains. "What?"

Not answering verbally, she only motions for him to come over as the other girls disperse. With a raised brow, he does so.

"How good?" She wonders, smile remaining.

Blinking, his head jerks back in response.

"Huh?! Whoa, whoa, whoa!"

"What's wrong? It's a genuine question. Depending on your answer, Shizuna may become a little jealous. That or possessive." She purses aloud. "I can see her being the type. The signs have been there…"

"Mom! I'm trying to save the world here! Not… focus on that thing you put into my head…"

"Why not do both? Either way, you'll get the same results as long as you take the proper steps."

"You and Luna putting whatever womanizer thing in me will be the death of me at this rate if more women start having a thing for me."

"Not every woman will just become obsessed over you," she corrects as if taken aback.

Wait. Huh?

"Explain." His voice couldn't be anymore confused or bland.

"I, being the caring mother that I was and still am, worried in the unknown future of the possibility of you struggling to find a significant other or two or however many so I requested a special trait. With how close Aidios and I were, not to mention you and your sister being the first elemental hybrids, she was quick to agree. So we made it so any that held you in a special interest, would get a little push to know you better. That's all."

"You make it sound innocent. Isn't that still technically brainwashing?"

"Far from it. That love power you radiate only works if a girl already develops feelings for you. Simple as that."

That… was something to digest.

"So, Shizuna…"

"Already began developing natural feelings towards you. The romance amplifier you have simply made her curiosity and care for you grow a little. The rest was 'au naturale,'" she giggles.

Correction; that was a lot to take in such a small amount.

"So then… Kallen could…"

"Fall under the same notion if the same requirements are met. Given whatever heartfelt moment you two had and if you said something all heroic or dreamily like acting as her knight in shining armor then you should be fine."

Eyes carefully dropping to the ground as her words process, he feels an uncomfortable dread well inside.

"Shit."

"Oh, you're such a wonderful man Relon but you certainly need to tame that side just a little. Otherwise that ability of yours may actually be the death of you. Especially since humans here apparently don't share spouses."

Glaring at the woman, he sighs.

"Between you putting that idea in my head and the thing going on with Shizuna and myself and the possibility of Kallen, I have no clue where to start."

"I would say with your current spouse, Claire. Get her to agree and the others will be much simpler."

"Yeah right. That's the hard part."

"Well, she could either be accepting of sharing or secretly be bisexual." Head instinctively giving her an odd look, she continues. "What? It could happen. As your mother, I'm simply helping you as much as I can within our limited time."

"Limited? Oh…"

How could he forget? She belonged in this world. Not to mention, even when they beat Zero, there will surely be casualties. It could be anyone…

Inwardly taking an unsteady breath, he finds his mother's touch around him begin to ease the accumulating worries.

"Couldn't I just… find you?" He mumbles out.

"Ishmelga and Sephiroth makes that very difficult I'm afraid, sweetie. It's why we've been hiding within Ouroboros."

"But Ouroboros is working with Senate!" He pulls back in exclamation.

"An agreement between both stops their attempts. It won't last long but long enough for what we have planned. There are clear loopholes in the pact both organizations that we've already abused. It won't be long before they start doing the same."

"That Bleublanc guy, right?" She nods.

"I asked him to watch over you when I bumped into you before you left for your trip. Relon, I love you and nothing is going to change that. The same goes for Kanade. I just need you both to know that even though Alister and I remain under Ouroboros, our allegiance lies with our family. With you. What you'll find us to be doing may shift your opinion but believe me! No matter what, we're trying to protect the remains of our family first and foremost alongside this world. Okay?"

This was a first; seeing his own mother so distraught.

"Okay, Mom." It was all he could manage. Clearly, whatever would happen would be seen in a bad light. He could only hope it wasn't too dire.

"Good. Now, back to our original topic; you have Claire, Laura is nearly a given, Musse just has to get a little bit older, once you with or without my assistance finds a way to reunite with Shizuna and Kallen, that'll make five women. A bountiful number of lovers. I'd say six but-"

"Princess Alfin is off the table. End of story."

"Of course," she chuckles. "Though a prince marrying a princess does fit the most."

"Yeah, no. Don't care if I am the next sovereign below Luna herself, that kind of title doesn't interest me in the slightest."

"Yet. Just wait, you'll grow into it eventually."

"Mmm, we'll see. Wait, you're actually counting Kallen?"

"Time with someone doesn't matter. Shizuna is a wonderful example. Do you know how much chemistry goes between the both of you? Ugh, it took everyone to stop me from just taking a peek when you both went on that night walk!"

Shivering at the thought, he'd have to make a mental note to thank the others when all was said and done at some point. That's when both heard the sounds of footsteps near.

One look and there they took in the sight of Shade and Munechika approaching. Watching the cat go to the tent, both greet the male as Rinwell and the girls step out.

"I take it late night talks are afoot?" Relon smiles.

"I wouldn't call it late night, but yeah. How did that talk go?" Shade asks.

Giving a momentary glance to Rinwell speaking to Shizuna and Kallen, Relon shrugs. "About as well as well can be. You good with things on your end?"

"With people or…?" Shade asks, looking over at the girls then back at said hybrid.

"Uh, yeah? Or yourself if you had a moment of reflection or something." Relon tilts his head with a raised brow. Why was he looking at the girls? Oh Luna, he better not ask about relationships!

Looking at him with a dull expression, Shade gently shakes his head.

"I'm good on reflecting. I have just a few things to do, but I can do that throughout the night. Also, did Van show up?"

"Nope. I guess he's still with that person you all mentioned before," Rinwell says.

"Yeah, her name is Elaine. If things are right then she should be a Bracer in Calvard in your world, like she is mine. I don't know much else about her however, still…" Shade glances over at Rinwell. "Rinwell, question, did something happen to Van?"

"Something?" She purses in thought for a moment before something dawns. "Oh! He went beast mode! Erm, he turned into a beast of sorts! Um, he transformed into a humanoid creature of sorts. Yeah! He was super fast and just pummeled away at this giant robot that appeared!"

"I see, then what I sensed was right." Shade hums, looking out of the tent.

"What's up? Something bad?" Relon wonders, noticing Shizuna rise at the mention.

"Depends on what he says, I'm going to go chat with him. I'll see you in the AM, unless you decide to sleep in." Shade gives a small smile.

About to respond, Relon decides against it. He caught his fellow protagonist's eyes also go to Shizuna. Hmm…

"No clue who says, 'see you in the AM,' but whatevs. Don't cause too much more trouble." Relon bids. "Oh, and if Van is doing something he isn't supposed to, let Shizuna and I know." He smiles oddly cheery-like.

That was sure to elicit a reaction from the girl.

Noticing his cheerfulness, Shade gave a small grin. "Someone is awfully happy, got a kiss or something~?"

Eyes bucking wide as redness manifests despite the dim lighting, both Relon's and Shizuna's own make it too obvious. What adds something into the unexpected mix is Kallen's own face. Dumbly, both girls avoid all eye contact as subtly as they can.

All the while, Relon is still as stone looking right at Shade.

"No clue what you're talking about," he forces in a calm tone through gritted teeth. (Leave. And. Never. Bring. That. Topic. Up. Again!)

As embarrassed as he sounded, any attempt at being serious only made the sight more amusing.

"And I'm gone, good luck~!" Turning, Shade waves his farewells before vanishing amongst the camp.

"Too bad ya can't jokingly kill the guy," Rinwell giggles.

"Oh, I've thought of more than a few ways around his 'immortality,'" Relon grumbles through an eye twitch. Giving a look at his company to land on his smiling mother, he could only shake his head. "Yeah, I'll be heading off too." That piqued everyone's interest.

"Where are you off to at this time of night, mister?" Vita wondered.

"Just for a night stroll. There's some things I need to take care of. I won't be long." Without waiting to hear any words further, he stepped on Pippin and was off.

Within moments of searching, he found the clinic. Stepping off for both swords to follow close behind, he entered.

It was easy through the injured to find whom he was searching for. Resting atop a small bed lied none other than the Radiant Blademaster.

The moment Relon came closer, a muffled grunt sounded from Victor.

"Relon…" He managed out weakly.

"I'm sorry," he solemnly spoke as his eyes cascaded to his and Laura's blades resting against the bed.

"Don't be, Nephew," he coughed. "Zero caused all of this. As did I."

"So you remember me." His head moved ever so slowly. "You shouldn't blame yourself. Zero isn't from Earth. You resisting as long as you did is commendable."

"Yet, it wasn't enough."

Relon knew trying to argue would lead nowhere.

"Will you be able to fight tomorrow?" He instead asked.

In response to his question, Victor slowly sat up, a hand held at his chest.

"Regardless of the obstacle, my blade shall strike down all that made my daughter suffer."

"Understood," Relon nodded. Perhaps it was due to his own mental and emotional turmoil that his body didn't seem fazed by Victor's grand presence. "Then I shall leave you to rest." All he got was a grunt before the sounds of him returning to rest could be heard.

"It may have been some time but I only wish our reunion could… have been under better circumstances."

Stopping, a silent sigh escapes Relon.

"You and me both, Uncle."

His heart, as heavy as it weighed, didn't deter him in the slightest. There were three more stops he needed to make. Thus, before long, he came upon the second.

"Still shell-shocked it seems."

Before him, hunched over staring at nothing sat Rean.

Watching the once-possessed male's body curl slightly at the greeting, he moved closer casually looking down at him.

"Relon, I…"

"Don't, Rean." He shook his head. "Just don't. No words can describe it all. So… don't."

"The people I…! What Thors did…! Laura, shouldn't have-"

"Died?" Relon wonders, meeting the frantic eyes of Rean's. "Yet, because of Zero, I killed her. More blood is on both of our hands."

"Relon…"

"We're all mentally screwed at this point. Zero got that win no matter how you look at it. Accept what you've done, all of it, and be ready to fight. This nightmare ends."

He didn't have the strength to tend to his friend. If he couldn't heal his own self then what good would forcing words of comfort be? Something? Probably. Something was better than nothing. Then again, this Rean wasn't his own. So some harsh truth would hopefully work.

"Thank you, Relon," Rean mumbles. "You're always helping me out."

"Thank me after we win."

Watching Rean's head bob, he stepped on Pippin before flying off. He needed rest and soon. Just two more people to tend to.

Within minutes, he found himself back at the familiar tent. Unsurprisingly, outside likely waiting for him he found Shizuna.

"I take it you and Kallen either stopped talking the moment I left or actually worked through whatever romantic ordeal yall have going on," he greeted stepping off Pippin.

Flinching at the bluntness, her eyes furrowed as he stopped before her.

"Something like that," he twitched. "Where did you go?"

"I had to catch up with some people. That's all."

"I see."

"Not gonna ask?"

"Not gonna if you don't want me to."

Looking at her, he could only hum in appreciation. Moving past towards the tent, he stops to feel a hand grab his wrist.

"Let me guess," he dramatically sighs, eyes rolling to meet her deadpanned. "You want to talk too?"

"Sorry," she said, giving a wry smile.

"Don't be. It's expected."

Without warning, he took her by the hand delving off to an isolated area of the site.

"H-Hey…"

"If you're getting flustered over simple hand holding, then you have a lot to prepare for if you want to be my lover," he snorts, not reacting as her grip around his hand tightened.

"I'm still a girl jerk," she forces through a smile.

A girl who could have taken my first kiss had it not been for Claire.

Of course, he wouldn't say that out loud. Instead, he came to a stop as they looked at the edge where the treeline was.

"What are we doing here?"

"Relaxing away from everything," he answered, heading in to find a nice spacious open patch before settling down. "I need to lay down and I can't do that in the sky," he explained, spreading out to release a deep sigh. "Come on," he offers a relaxed look, patting the spot next to him.

"You seem lax," she offers, settling down next to him.

"If only that was the case." Up their eyes laid on the pitch-black sky, not a single light visible. "Hmm…"

"How are you holding up?" He could see out his peripheral the worried look on her face.

"Not well." He turned his body over, curly inward with a small shake. "I met, Laura. An older version."

"Through the Perception of Time?"

"Probably. I was so deep in my subconscious, it just happened without me noticing. She… gave me a pep talk. A really good one."

"What did she say?"

"To keep moving forward. No matter what."

Then he felt her inch closer, tucking his head under hers.

She didn't say anything, only retaining the tender embrace.

The lull of silence was once again another welcome companion. Shizuna's presence this time was as well.

"Look up," Relon decided, breaking the ambience.

Above, the clouds parted open in a swirling motion thanks to both sentient swords. Unveiled lied countless shimmering gem-like stars.

"You sure know how to make a moment romantic." He had to chuckle at that.

"I'm just livening your spirit a bit. Perhaps I'm doing this for myself too, I don't know. A lot can happen in two days," he breathes, sitting up. "This time by then, it'll all be over."

"This time in two days you may be gone. Rinwell and Munechika alongside you won't be sticking around, will you?"

"It all just depends. Time-Space abilities are something I am still a novice at some who knows how much time has passed back home. For all I know, when we get back, decades could have occurred. Perhaps we'll end up right where we left off. It's hard to say without knowing."

He could feel her form lift to lean against his.

"I get it."

"Hey, Shizuna."

"Hmm?"

"Will you be alright?"

"Didn't we talk about this already. I'll be fine-"

"I'm referring to Tio." He knew that name alone was like a dagger embedding deep into her chest. "She's no longer under Zero's control and she's in the campsite somewhere."

He didn't flinch. Perhaps it was simply due to his overwhelming fatigue. Maybe he simply couldn't urge himself to care at the dense hatred that radiated from her very being.

With every second that passed, the rage behind her vehement flow of power steadily declined until nothing remained.

"Zero… killed Kurogane, all of Ikaruga," she mumbled to lift her head up. "Not Tio."

Looking to her for a moment, he hums, returning his own gaze to the closing stars above.

"As long as you know."

"Hey, Relon?" Turning one more, he feels her lips peck his cheek. "Thanks."

He could only blink before rolling his eyes.

"Seriously, if I wasn't loyal, I'd be all over you right now." He grumbles to earn a snicker.

"Good thing you are then." Hopping to her feet, she offers him a hand. One he takes. "Relon?"

"Now what?"

"Let's chat some more. After we beat Zero."

It was earnest, filled with hope. The belief that they could achieve the impossible.

"Regarding your other love interests, no matter how many, don't hold back. Not for Claire's sake or mine."

He couldn't fight back the grin as his arm pulled him close.

"Better yet, let's chat until the sun comes up."

The sudden surge of confidence came out of nowhere. She was at a loss of words within that moment. She knew much weighed in his heart. Yet, that smile was still a genuine one.

She nearly forgot that a single smile could be so contagious.

"Haha, deal!"

With that agreement settled, both departed back to the tent.

"Where are you off to now?"

"There's one more person I need to see." Stepping onto Pippin, he looks back. "Don't wait up. Get some rest, Shizu." With that, he departed once more.

Reaching the medical bay again, it didn't take long to find her. Bandaged and with a wheelchair close to her bed, he could only gaze at her from.

"Claire…" He musters out a mumble.

Stirring suddenly to his slight surprise, those tranquil eyes he's gotten lost in blinked awake. One slow turn of her head, and the emotionless face she gained a gentle smile.

"Hey…"

"Recognize me?" He greeted in-turn, mirroring the kind gesture.

"How could I forget my lover?" She chuckles to wince.

"Don't push yourself. You're still hurt."

"Not like I can push myself. Not anymore without that at least," she scoffs, eyes bearing into the wheelchair.

One look and it clicked.

"Oh…"

"Don't look like that. I did this to myself."

"Zero did this to you," Relon corrects sternly. Not arguing, she only gave a hum in acknowledgement. "Still, I meant what I said about you being a crackshot. I just didn't think you'd blow my arm off, haha." That managed a chortle at least.

"Very funny."

"Gotta lighten the mood somehow." Smiling at the endearing bluntness, she falls back against her bed.

"None of this makes any sense."

"If I got a single mora for how many times I've heard that since coming here…"

"How do I remember you? I'm Claire but I'm not your Claire."

"A thing Luna gave me when I was born. Senate sent me here and messed up the ability so now people I know can remember me. Still figuring out how exactly."

"And you found this out when exactly?"

"During our fight with Senate so I didn't exactly have a good moment to tell you. Not like I had other stuff on my mind as is."

Watching her fall back against her pillow, he could only watch as she stared blankly at the ceiling.

"Why us?"

"I wish I had an answer, Claire. I really do." Meticulously fiddling with her fingertips, the pained expression she held once again wanned into a soft smile.

With a gentle tug, he climbed in snuggling within the confines of her touch.

"Then let's delve on that answer another time."

"And just enjoy the time we have now because, boy, do I have a bunch to tell you about."

"Haha, I'm all ears."

Thus, the transient reunion delved into countless topics…

Day 1

Heimdallr…

Eyes blinking open, Relon stares blankly ahead.

Good morning to you too.

The time draws near. To vanquish Zero, I must restore my power…

We've freed practically everyone so I'm all ears.

You are not hesitant in me taking over…

Not anymore, no. I trust you and I can feel your trust in me. Relon grins for a low growl to sound. He can only grin harder though.

Hmm… My remaining power lies there. Underground.

No matter what, anything relating to me goes back to Heimdallr. So then we'll do that.

Be wary, the process may take time. Time we cannot afford to waste.

With that, he submerged into the hybrid's consciousness.

"Duly noted."

"Mmm…"

One look down at the stirring Claire put a smile on his face.

"Morning," he greets.

Stretching what of her body she can, she relaxes to exude a breath.

"Good morning. Yesterday wasn't a dream, was it?"

"Unfortunately no," he smiled wryly.

Understandably she sighed, poking her legs. "This will take some getting used to."

"Least you can still move your upper body. Better than being completely paralyzed."

"You always look at the brighter side of things," she playfully flicks one of his bangs.

"Have to. Dark mentalities are not pleasant to be drowned in. I've learned that."

"No. They aren't."

For a moment, neither spoke.

"Relon."

"I know. You be careful out there."

"You too."

As they separated, bit by bit their touch lingered until only their fingers remained before it snapped. With a single nod from both sides, he left. Never looking back all the way to his companions.

Freshening up, careful not to awaken the others, he does a few stretches to pass by the others. Momentarily stopping to feel a tap at his boot, a single eyelid peers childishly at him belonging to none other than Shizuna.

Rolling his head, he mouths a "good morning" before continuing outside.

"Someone's up early." One look up and there was Shade.

"Well, I was surprisingly sleeping well when a dragon decided to breathe quite heavily in my head. A slow talker so definitely not a morning creature," Relon jokes, running a hand down his bang. "You rest okay?"

"I'm not even going to comment on that first part, but I don't feel like shit anymore so yeah. Everyone else still asleep?"

"Yeah. You should see it. Rinwell is being snuggled by Kallen and Shizuna. It's actually adorable." He chuckles. "I take it the others on your end are still out as well?"

"Maybe? Nadia is a napper and Swin… not sure really, but I hadn't seen anyone since last night. Also speaking of Shizuna and Kallen, I won't dig too much into what's going on, but here." Pulling out something, Shade tosses it Relon's way.

"Why do you keep tossing-" Immediately, his eyes narrow as his face scrunches. (Just because I get a new companion that happens to be a girl, doesn't mean they are gonna- argh, damn it Luna!) Sighing with a shake, he can only offer a "thanks. Again."

"No worries. Gave me something to do in the middle of the night. I also have something for Munechika, for when she wakes up… Oh and word of warning, Magilou knows about your lady issues." Shade smiles with crossed arms.

"Dude, I'm pretty sure anyone here with enough sense or experience can tell. I've just accepted it at this point. Stupid love power. Ugh, gotta make a name for it still."

"So, another part of you…well guess I got lucky by not having something like that!" Shade lets out a chuckle to pat Relon's shoulder. "Good luck in the future!"

"You ass! You think I wanted this curse?! I need more guys in my life, not women! Wait, that came out wrong!"

Watching Shade done a thinking pose, Relon could only dread what would come out of his mouth next.

"I know a Bracer in Crossbell that would be into you in that case~!"

Ugh, he knew it'd be something wrong!

"I have enough romantic issues to worry about. I'm good!" He forces a grin. "Moving on!"

"Alright, alright… They should be serving breakfast meals about now. After that we should ask about the status of the Resistance's movements. I'll wait out here for when you get everyone up."

"Gotcha. I'll be-" Taking a single step back, Relon stumbles for a moment. "Whoa. Guess I'm not fully recovered like I thought., He manages through an embarrassed chortle. Deciding to play it safe, Pippin comes from the tent to offer its services as he takes a seat. "Be back soon." He bids to vanish inside.

One look at the females amongst him made him somewhat relieved as his mother and Munechika was already up and moving. As for the other three…

"Hey," he blandly calls to get a shooing hand of Shzuna's. Tic mark appearing, he frowns. "Kallen, Rinwell, time to get up," he says to receive no responses but a sly smirk from Shizuna. "Okay then, guess we're doing this the hard way."

"Hm?" Vita hums, re-entering to see Relon carefully crouch before the girls.

"You know, I have a nickname back at the orphanage." Without warning, he tosses the covers off of Shizuna to topple over smothering the other two leaving Shizuna to open her eyes in confusion. "The Master Tickler!"

"AAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!"

Immediately, Rinwell and Kallen scrambled the blanket off of them, spellbook, gun, blade, and owl at the ready.

"What's happening?! Are we being attacked?! Where's my cousin?!"

"Is it Zero?! Where's Relon?! Is he safe?!"

"Hahahah, HELP, hahahaha! Someone! ANYONE!"

"I warned you!"

Looking at the assault on Shizuna's exposed skin, both have to exchange a dumbfounded look before returning to the sight once more. Nodding, both left to freshen up as the sounds of Shizuna and Relon could be heard.

"PLEEEEEEAAAASSSSEEE, HAHAHAHA!"

"Alright," Relon says, eventually easing off.

"Ha…ha…ha…" Shizuna breathes slowly.

"Note to self; never make Relon upset." Rinwell blinks as everyone huddles to look at Shizuna.

"Quite the look you have, Shizuna," Vita grins. "You look like you just finished a session with my son."

That earned flustered looks from everyone except Munechika.

"Can you please refrain from making inappropriate innuendos so early, Vita?" The catwoman deadpans.

"Fine, fine, I shall try."

"Try?" Relon, Kallen, and Rinwell sweatdrop.

"S-Someone, not Relon, help. I feel sensitive, haha."

"You really gave it to her, huh?" Kallen mumbles as Munechika helps her to prep for the day.

"In the Namikaze family, you must tread cautiously or suffer the wrath of our deadly fingers," Relon quotes imitating a wise hermit. "That and we always go for skin when we're serious." He shrugs.

"N-Noted." Kallen shivers as does Rinwell.

"Aside from… that, you okay Cuz?"

"Yeah, why wouldn't I be?"

"Because you're sitting on Pippin again. You only sit when you're not well." Jerking slightly, Vita giggles.

"She's catching on~."

"Quiet, Mom!" He growls with a twitching eye. "I said I'm fine!" With that, he floats towards the exit.

"If you can't walk properly, then you're not fine!" The voice of Rinwell barks back in hot pursuit.

"I've been sitting on Pippin half the time!"

"Relon, you should listen to your cousin~."

"Mom, you are literally not helping."

"If it helps, one of us could-"

"No! No one needs to look out for me. I'm good." He interrupts Kallen whose worried expression shifts to a frown.

"Hey, I'm only worried like everyone else!"

"And I appreciate that but it's not like I'm going out to venture on my own and be reckless."

"Then might I suggest we split like how we did yesterday?" Munechika wonders, approaching with Shizuna. "It will ease everyone's nerves to know you are safe even outside of their sight."

"I second that!" Rinwell beams with a raised hand. "All in favor say aye!"

"Aye!" Shizuna smiles, completely disregarding the irate look Relon sports in the form of a twitching eye.

"Aye~." Vita hums.

"Aye." Munechika voices next.

With that, all eyes and a desperate pair belonging to Relon slowly turn to a still-quiet Kallen.

"Um, it'd make me feel better knowing you're okay…" She mumbles meekly raising her hand.

"It's unanimous!" Rinwell cheers.

"UGH! WOMEN!" Relon exclaims hovering off and past Shade who facepalms at the conversation.

"Relon, where are you going?!"

"TO GET SOME FOOD BECAUSE AT LEAST THAT WON'T ARGUE BACK!"

Somehow, through guess alone, he found the mess hall. Hopping off Pippin, ignoring the eyes on him, he quickly got in line.

"You must be Relon Lucinance."

Turning around, he immediately tilts his head at the regal-like woman before him. Youthful in appearance, like Vita and Munechika, she has bright long blonde hair and blue eyes with a segment worn in a braid resting along the front of her shoulder. She's wearing a white blouse tucked under a red skirt ending halfway down her legs with a corset bridging the two. Clacking against the floor, her brown medium high boots.

Watching her eyes draw upon both Pippin and Pappan at his side, their eyes meet once more.

Then he felt it.

The sheer power the woman before him held. Yet, her kind smile never waned.

"I am. May I ask for your name, ma'am?" Ever so slightly, the atmosphere around them shifted. Not to the sensation of an incoming conflict, but a gentle hum of greeting.

"Arianrhod. Just Arianrhod."

"That's… an interesting name. I like it though. No surname can be cool."

"Thank you. Though I suppose I owe you twice my thanks now." That comment caused Relon to tilt his head as did both swords, this only making her chuckle at the sight. "You destroyed the reactor in Trista, did you not?" He flinched at the reminder.

For as much good came out of it, he could only recall the bad.

The thought alone made his face crestfallen, something he quickly tried to hide only to catch the solemn expression Arianrhod wore.

"Yes," he relented. "I did."

"You hold them; eyes of the forlorn. She was a noble warrior."

He flinched inwardly. "You 'worked' with her?"

"You can say my relation with that of the name Arseid is deeply rooted."

"Huh, then I guess we're both related then," he notes, moving in line to grab some food.

"Oh? Is that so?"

"When I was young, I was taught the Arseid Style by Victor Arseid. My style when I use Pippin and Pappan revolves around it."

"A dual wielder." He nods. "Fascinating…"

"Master, there you are," a new voice interjects, gaining their attention. One look and his eyes bucked wide in surprise.

Approaching them was a young woman older than him by only a few years. Her brown hair held itself in a bun while her emerald eyes greeted Arianrhod with respect and curiosity towards him. Her attire consisted of a white shirt, green tie, red skirt and knee-high leather boots. Attached at her waist lied a sword and kiteshield.

"Duva-"

"Dubarry?" Relon blinked, genuinely shocked by the appearance. In response, the inquisitive look the young woman held contorted into a glare.

"It's Duvalie, you imbecile!" That seemed to jolt Relon as he jerked from the correction.

"Same words and reaction from back then... No doubt about it."

"Duvalie, watch your tone," Arianrhod lightly scolds.

"But, my lord!"

"Duvalie," she repeats with a raised brow, still retaining her kind smile.

"F-Forgive me then…"

"Um, sorry for the trouble," Relon curtly bows, having noticed the others arrive. "Ms. Arianrhod, Duvalie, thanks for the short time." Without waiting, he hurried off to an open area.

"Relon," Arianrhod calls, halting him mid-step. "Before you leave, return to that clearing. I'll be waiting."

Tilting his head, he nods hurrying off.

"That is Relon Lucinance?" Duvalie wonders for Arianrhod to chuckle.

"Interested?" She teases for Duvalie's face to go red.

"M-My Lord, what are you saying?!"

Taking his spot, ignoring Duvalie's distant exclamations, he gave a brief wave catching the others' attention.

To see Duvalie again though. He didn't know how to feel. On one hand, he was relieved because he, her, and Laura bonded during their training back in Legram. On the other, she clearly had an aura of strength to her but no where near as potent as Arianrhod.

Not to mention he called her "my lord." What was that about?

Seeing Rinwell settle down followed by the others, his eyes notice Van and a girl, likely Elaine, enter before flagging them down with a hand. Soon after, lively chatter filled the room.

It was interesting. Despite the looming battle around the corner, none seemed to show any signs of worry as for what was to come.

"So in case we end up splitting, is there anywhere left you want to check out Relon?" Rinwell began the conversation while eating.

"Heimdallr. Helios mentioned something important so that's my plan once everything's settled here. No clue how long that will take though."

"Makes sense, I don't know much about them but there should be a Primal Ground somewhere in Heimdallr, that might be what you're looking for?" Shade spoke, placing down his fork and looking over at Relon.

"Primal Ground? What's that?"

"What I know is little, but they should be deep underground where the Cathedral is at. They are modeled after the one in Arteria. In my world they were prime targets to be destroyed by the Dominion because of their connection to the Goddess."

"A link to Luna, huh? Interesting. Now that is something useful to know." He says to himself. "The Perception of Time, Ashland, and now this Primal Ground. Looks like there are more direct links to that damned Goddess than I thought!" Despite the wording, he seemed excited if that grin didn't mirror the gleeful thoughts.

"Relon, be wary," Vita warns. "Even I cannot safely estimate what could occur should you come into contact with such a thing."

"Oh, I'm fully aware," he dismisses. "I know, back home at least, the Temporal Laws aren't to be ignored. I just need to find a way to manipulate such divine rules into our favor. But first, we gotta beat Zero!"

"There you all are," a boy in blue alongside a girl in pink holding a teddy bear spoke up. "Rufus, Shirley and just about every other commander wants to see you all in the command room. Us two included." The boy stated in a matter-of-fact tone.

"Swin, Nadia. Knew it was coming…" Shade breathed out, taking another bite.

"Time to get this show on the road," Relon surmises, taking the sight of said people come into view.

Tension filled the table as chatter transitioned to silence. It was understandable given what was to come. The moment everyone was done, they made their way to the command room with Swin and Nadia as their guides. Entering inside were only a handful of soldiers and a large monitor where on the screen were pre-mentioned individuals Relon was told of alongside Rufus and Shirley though the one that held Relon's attention was the blonde one; Rufus Albarea.

So he's Jusis' brother. I remember him appearing during the warzone against Senate.

"Ah, welcome and good morning everyone!" Rufus said with a slight grin. "Also, nice to finally meet you, Relon Lucinance. I have heard much about you."

"I don't like him," Relon mumbles. " And I don't know why." Discarding the comment, Relon rises for all to see. "It's an honor to be working alongside everyone. I also must thank you all for the kind hospitality throughout my friends' and I's short experience here." With a curt bow, he sits back down.

"Not bad," Rinwell elbows to get a bland expression from said male. "Good to see you didn't get cold feet. I know I would have, hehe."

"Shut it. Having a crowd this small compared to all of Heimdallr won't shake my nerves."

"Please, this isn't a party after all, no need to be so formal. I just wish I could offer a more pleasant stay… Now before we begin there is something I wish to address regarding yourself."

"Which would be?" Vita questions in Relon's place.

"Ah, Vita Clotilde, I heard rumors of you being active with him. What I and the others wish to address is what occurred yesterday at Trista."

"Why do I feel like things can possibly go bad?" Rinwell mumbles to hear yet another sigh from her cousin who stands.

"Very well. Would you like the short version or the long version, sir?"

"I don't need the full details at this moment, but word has spread of what did happen and while casualties were very minor, the destruction of the base itself has left a few panicked. Plus, we need to make sure it won't happen in the final battle tomorrow…"

"For all we know, what happened yesterday may very well be needed to repeat if we take into account the unknown variables Zero still possesses." Relon quips, crossing his arms. "Yesterday, only a quarter of an hour after the annihilation of Saint-Arkh's reactor occurred. I have what can simply be deemed as a nuclear attack of sorts. I attempted to use it, failed, and on my second attempt, succeeded burning everything within whatever proximity along with the reactor. Given my 'unique' powers if you will, not to mention Zero as a near divine being entirely, simply not using such a potent attack is out of the question I'm afraid. I am aware of the dangers it can cause, hence why I ensured that with the assistance of a witch capable of space-time manipulation, that none valuable were injured." It was subtle but a pained expression flashed across his face at that last comment but it was quickly dispelled.

"So it seemed. While I cannot deny the truth that Zero is a god-like being, the fact is many not in the know are wary, furthermore, I have been informed of the state it left you in after the fact. You said you failed once, as of right now do you have the power to do it again and succeed against Zero?"

Not answering immediately, Relon goes quiet. Unsurprising to us, he instead gets onto the table.

"Pippin, Pappan." He calmly calls for both divine swords to orbit his being as several gasps and others of the sort sound. Extending a hand directly at Rufus, at his palm lies a calm black flame. "Swords crafted by the Goddess herself, flames given by the very being that created this world…" He takes another deep breath as the air around him becomes very warm, markings piercing his skin faintly. "And a power that can mirror Zero's own. General Rufus, if I wasn't certain on using such a dangerous attack in the first place, I wouldn't have wagered such a risk. Not to the innocent victims under Zero's control, not to my friends, not to one whom I hold dear, not to the woman that birthed me, and certainly not to those who have helped me get this far. Whether another Solar Impact is needed to blow away Zero's defenses, a Crescent Horizon requires me to snip at his own preservation, or a Malevolent Eclipse warrants striking his very soul; I'm confident not just me, but all of my friends and I can do anything when it comes down to it." Sure enough, those under Relon stood in agreement.

"I don't doubt them, but all I needed was a simple yes."

"Yeah, simple answers aren't our thing." Relon shrugs hopping off the table.

"Not in the slightest. Sorry, teehee." Rinwell laughs.

"Haha, very well then. Still, as the appointed Supreme Commander of the Resistance forces, I cannot make you the leader of our brand new task force, for morale is key here. That honor will go to Shade." At that, all eyes go to said person.

"Good, because I definitely didn't want another leadership position."

"I'll let you select the members, after you do we'll do another briefing for tomorrow's mission, but know that your task force will be alone without support and will prioritize a direct assault on Zero," Rufus said as most of the faces on screen cut out before going dark.

One of the soldiers in the room walks up to Shade with a piece of paper in his hands. "Here is also a list of names from those that agreed to join you if you wished to have them!" At that, Shade grabs the list with a nod before returning to the group.

"You good?" Relon asks, wondering if anything of what Rufus said got to him.

"Yeah? Great actually." He blinks. "Just raring to get stuff done."

From behind, Swin walks up with Nadia close behind. "You got an hour before Rufus contacts you again. Better figure out who you're bringing with you tomorrow and, yes, both of us will go with you if you want." The looks of determination spoke a lot for whatever conflict Shade seemed to have.

"Thanks, I'll think on it… Relon, you're heading to Heimdallr when exactly?"

"As soon as possible, preferably. Given what Helios mentioned, no idea how long it'll take so the sooner the better."

"Then the best time to head out is after the briefing. That way you know what the plan is for tomorrow, plus I guess I'll need to know who's going with you…" Shade sighs.

"Just Mom and I will be heading out." As soon as that statement left his mouth, the girls happened. Immediately, Rinwell and Shizuna shot to their feet.

"No way! What's this about Heimdallr?!" Rinwell barks. "Why are we just hearing about this?!"

"Relon, you just recovered!"

"I'm fine. A thing with Helios happened. It seems like a way to get another boost to our power. He says it'll help against Zero."

"Is it wise to now trust the entity?" Munechika wonders, though unlike either it was more hesitancy than a flat-out refusal.

"I do. Some things happened and I can tell he wants to take down Zero more than most of us."

"Then why can't we go with you?" Rinwell furrowed in offense.

"Because if the Resistance is tackling Zero's front door, they need all the power they can get. I don't know how long it'll take with Helios so the sooner I leave, the sooner I can join up with you all."

"Then I'm going with you!" Shizuna declared. "Rinwell's and Munechika's magic are too potent to be absent against Crest, much less Zero. I can be replaced now that we have Rean and the others."

"Shizuna, Mom and I are enough for whatever ends up coming at us. Rean will be with Class VII and they aren't strong enough to fight Zero."

"Are you saying you don't need me?"

About to respond, he rolls his head back and around to meet her with an annoyed look. "Shizuna-"

"Don't Shizuna me! Give me one genuine reason why I can't!"

"Because what Relon plans to do will make it impossible for a normal human to survive." All eyes shifted to the perturbed expression Vita wore. "He's going to absorb the remaining power of the entity that has been underground. How much, we do not know but for it to deem that fraction enough to defeat Zero, it must not be any small amount."

"Still-"

"Shizuna." She interrupts tenderly. "Relon is looking out for your well-being. He does not want to see one he's come to harbor kindred feelings for become engulfed in the malevolent flames that have hurt you already." One look at the regretful look Relon sported told his 'mom's' words to hold truth.

"But… why you?" She managed out.

"Magic is a wondrous thing but, once again, the amount Relon absorbs will possibly force me to fend myself. Unless one has a magical resistance or may have already experienced Zero's malevolence directly, none can withstand such power."

"Then… what if I go in her place?" For the third time in a minute, all eyes rotate over to the see Kallen with her hand raised. "I… was Zero's right hand so any influence I should be able to withstand, right?"

"Kallen, you don't-"

"I want to." She calmly cuts off. "You saved so many people, you've impacted the lives of the people and Shizuna even. Including me. Let me be the one to protect you, Relon. If not even for the girl's sake, then my own. I want to come with you. Please."

The confliction upon Relon's face was more real than him being a chick magnet. Looking at Vita who nods in acceptance, he then goes to his group of girls.

"Might at well." Looking to see Van finally rejoin his group, the smirk he sports doesn't help Relon's own nerves.

"Ugh, damn it, now you come. And not on my side it seems." He sighs. "What happened to the bro code?"

"With odds stacked like this against you, you may as well throw in the towel or there'll be other things thrown that you won't like." He pats the hybrid's shoulder.

"Kallen, if something happens…"

"Will you risk your life to save me again?" She asks for him to be taken aback for a moment.

"You know I will."

"As will I. I can't let my savior kick the bucket. Then I'd feel even more pathetic." She smiles.

Catching his head lift up for his eyes to squint, said red eyes then roll in annoyance.

"Fine." He sighs again now in defeat. "Mom, Kallen, and I will depart while the rest of you stick with Shade and start the big party. End of story." Despite his clear gripe with the new plan, the smiles of relief were totally worth it and Relon knew it too.

"That was some sight to see, now with that figured out I'm going to clear my head to figure out everything…" Shade bid walking out the room as everyone followed after getting fresh air.

"Um, Relon?" Kallen began striding in tandem with him. "You're not mad about our vote, are you?"

"No. Jokes aside, I can't be mad for what you want to do, given all that's happened. Besides, we've both experienced the malevolence so with you by my side, it'll actually put my mind somewhat at ease," he smiles.

"O-Oh? Good, hope I can help." She averted her gaze, messing with her hair.

"Hmm, this is interesting~." Jumping apart from a grinning Vita, Relon immediately deadpans as Kallen's blush intensifies.

"What now, 'Mother?'" He emphasises with another eyeroll.

"Oh, nothing. Nothing that hasn't already been stated," she shrugs, walking past them.

"Hey, Kallen?"

"Y-Yeah?"

"No matter what, promise me one thing." His voice was calm despite the intentional tease. "Regardless of what I've done or what you may feel inclined to do, live your life how you want it. Okay?"

For a moment, he watched her mind process before it seemingly clicked. Eyes closing, she steps past him to look back.

"We talked about this already, didn't we?" She deadpans to lighten out into a smile. "I'm gonna say what I want and do as I please. And I want to stay by your side." With that sense of finality, she walked off to begin speaking with a grinning Vita, likely having heard their short conversation.

"Jeez, it feels like these girls are abusing my heart," he chuckles.

Looking to Shade, catching the tailend of him naming their group, Relon joins in.

"Don't think you aren't also a part of this!" Shade calls to the approaching male. "You may be there when we start, you may not, either way when we fight Zero you'll be there with us!" He adds, extending a fist.

"Don't think you can take him out without me. You know what they say, gotta save the best for last!" Relon grins, extending his own fist to bump mine.

Grinning, Shade turns back and walks towards a table, leaning on it. "Alright, just so everyone knows Shizuna is my second in command. As for roles in battle… Nadia, Munechika and Rinwell will be in the back line for casting arts and magic. Swin, Elaine and Van will be their guard as well as take out any that get past myself or Shizuna who will be at the front! For when Relon rejoins us Vita will join the backline, Kallen the guard and Relon the front with me and Shizuna!"

Noting his wandering expression, Rinwell gives a suggestion.

"Are you thinking of a certain granny?" Rinwell grins.

"Right here brat…" Magilou walks in, not even hiding the small limp she has from her internal wounds, but behind her was two people Relon, Rinwell, and Munechika didn't expect to see with her.

"Tio and Alex?" Shade spoke their names as he stood up straight. Tio had a crutch but was also being helped by Alex who was careful with her.

"Well, I was wondering what to say when I got to this part but… guess I ended up with nothing still, Shade." Alex greets, avoiding looking at Shade.

"Why are you both here? Not that I don't mind you being here…" Shade asked, glancing at Alex before shifting his gaze to Tio.

"I asked Alex to take me here. I wished to join your task force in the way of communications between you and the main forces outside. That way you can get updates on any major changes."

"No, I'll have someone else do that job. The main force will need your expertise rather than us." Shade denied, surprisingly, while crossing his arms.

"I can't say I understand exactly how you feel, Tio but to a high degree I do. You're invaluable to beating Zero and it's because of that we can't risk you being anymore hurt." Shizuna says attempting to ease the situation.

One glance down at her hidden fist trembling told Relon all that needed to be said.

"I didn't mean being on the front lines anyway… Still you're Shizuna, I heard you were here and I wished to…" Tears began to form before trickling down her face while her hand gripped her clutch. "I-I'm sorry!"

Watching for a moment the blue-haired girl tremble, the fist unfurls as Shizuma moves forward. Tenderly, her arms embraced the girl. Any hostility, malice, or negativity given the situation would be understandable and yet there was none to be found.

"There, there. It's okay." She soothes, brushing a hand down her blue hair. "I've already forgiven you, Tio."

She doesn't say anything, just letting out tears as she hugs back.

"Magilou, since you're unable to join the fights on any front I'm making you be the one to communicate between myself, Shizuna and the main force." Shade spoke, redirecting attention from the girls to his companion.

She was silent, then she wasn't.

"HUH!? You want me to talk in your ear!?" Despite being loud, she wasn't as loud to disturb the scene nearby.

"Hey! Put. A. Sock. In it!" Rinwell seethes through her teeth attempting to hush only to notice her. "Wait, you're hurt?"

Magilou simply glanced at her. "Heh, a few broken ribs from a very hurtful impact!" She glared at me before looking back at Rinwell. "Got it at Crossbell, didn't even notice until now, hmph!" She looked away and crossed her arms, before a small whisper of pain left her lips from the action.

"Where at, let me see!" Rinwell urges as Munechika also gets involved.

"Wha- Hey, don't touch me so suddenly! At least buy me dinner first!"

"Ugh, you wish! Munechika, right here!"

I could only watch as Rinwell held Magilou back in a Full Nelson as Munechika applied a shimmering glow of light to Magilou's injury. After a minute, Magilou finally wrestled the young witch off.

"Get off! Oh, heh doesn't hurt as bad! Thanks kiddo and cat, so Shade…" She looked at returning him with a dull look. "Fine, I'll still be your communication person. Least I don't have to fight!"

"Hmpf. Attitude as always." Rinwell grumbles.

"You know that's her way of showing care. I think." Munechika adds with a chuckle.

Swin steps forward next coughing into his hand. "Rufus seems to be contacting us early for the briefing since I told him we were ready. We are ready right?" Looking over at him, both protagonists exchange a knowing glance to nod

"You all get go- Hey!" Cut off for the umpteenth time, Relon can only blink at Rinwell hugging him before stepping away. "If you don't hurry and catch up, we'll take Zero down without you. Got it?" He could only blink before a chuckle left his lips. "Yeah, yeah, I got it already."

Watching him look to Munechika, the familiar only has to give a nod as does Relon.

"Van."

"Yeah, yeah. Protect the girls, look somewhat cool while doing it. I got the script in my head downpat."

"Pfft, sure you do. Just try not to embarrass yourself in front of your new girlfriend." He smiles for Van's eyes to amusingly buck wide and a faint blush to appear on Elaine as she simply shuffles in place.

"HUH?!"

"Ah, the sweet taste of revenge." Relon laughs to ease himself. One look to his side at none other than Shizuna standing before him told him it was now or possibly never. "You okay?" He asks, tone filled with care and concern.

Lips parting for a moment, she shifts her mild surprise into a smile followed by a nod. "I am. All thanks to you no less."

"I haven't done much. Just being a kind human like anyone else would be."

"We both know your level of kindness is something not everyone has." She corrects.

"You know, flirting with me won't beat Zero." He chuckles.

"Can't call it flirting if I already claim you as mine. Who knows, maybe we'll add Kallen into our little love group~." With a wink and a peck on his cheek, Shizuna can only give a cheesy grin before walking away leaving behind a stunned Relon and Kallen.

Rinwell was just dying. Munechika had to cover the girl's mouth as her chest heaved in pure amusement. Van was very much matching her as was Elaine to Munechika.

Magilou looked between Relon and the girls, before grabbing onto Rinwell in a protective way. "Pervert…"

"SHE'S MY FREAKING COUSIN YOU DIRTY MINDED WOMAN!" Relon exclaims.

"To think my son would have so many options laid before him. I couldn't be more relieved!" Vita sheds a tear.

"I… hate… everyone."

"Even me, Relon?" Kallen asks with innocent worry.

"EXCEPT YOU!"

"Hoot?"

"AND YOU!"

"Ah, that was so good!" Van calms himself down. "Alright, let's get this show on the road again!"

After a moment of conforming and another exchange of looks, Relon, Vita, and Kallen gathered together. Without a word, they vanished in a flash of light via Vita's staff.

Appearing at their tent, one quick resupply of rations and the three were ready to fully depart.

"Mom, can we stop on the edge of the campsite before we go?" He asked, pointing in the direction.

"What for?" Kallen asks.

"There's someone waiting to say goodbye I think."

"I don't see why not." With a tap, his vision transitioned from the tent to the small clearing. "Did I keep you waiting?"

Sure enough, there stood Arianrhod. Same attire and all, only now she held a lance.

"No. The quiet atmosphere was a well companion."

"I see now. You wish to test, Relon," Vita hums.

"It has been some time, Azura Abyss. No, forgive me, you've discarded that title. Haven't you, Vita?"

"Haha, yes. Given my son is fighting to save us and the organization disbanding because of Zero," she jokes.

"Your son? Ah, I see. Congratulations nonetheless. I hope you can forgive me for this sudden challenge then."

"No, I'm quite relieved actually."

"Oh? Might I ask why that is?"

"Why, more prospects for my son of course!" She cheered merrily as Relon and Kallen could only facepalm.

"I genuinely wanted to believe you were acting serious, Mom," Relon sighs.

"Haha."

"Oh, Luna, no," Relon externally groans to see Arianrhod chuckling.

"My, then I suppose it is quite relieving that he is already acquainted with one of my knights."

"WHAT?!" Vita and Kallen exclaim as does a voice from behind Arianrhod.

"What happened to us fighting?" Relon wonders, though his words fall on deaf ears as from the treeline emerges Duvalie and two others.

"My Lord, what are you saying?!"

"Awe, could our dear Duvalie have a secret lover~?" The blue-haired woman coos.

"Having a reunited love interest amongst the sea of ruin that veils the land. I must say it would make for a wondrous story." The redhead adds.

"THERE IS NO WAY THAT OF ALL THINGS WOULD BE THE CASE! NOT IN THE SLIGHTEST!"

"Denial," Vita and Arianrhod assume in unison.

"I AM NOT!"

"Sure it is," the two girls behind Duvalie say.

"ARGH!"

"Relon, what did you do?" Kallen wonders, baffled by the ordeal.

"I was born," he mumbles with a twitching eye.

"I'd think a guy surrounded by women would be something they'd like."

"Yet here I am, the sole opposition."

"ENOUGH!" Another shout by Duvalie brings all attention back on her flushed face. "AND YOU!"

"I am literally innocent," Relon deadpans.

"I CHALLENGE YOU, RELON LUCINANCE!"

"Here we go," the redhead sighs.

"Duvalie, dear, I don't think that's-"

"Silence, Ines, Ennea!" Walking forward to withdraw her sword and shield, Duvalie aims her blade at Relon. "This insolent child has caused enough chaos for myself and my lord!"

"She's in denial again," Ines shakes her head.

"Personally, I didn't expect the Stahlritter to act so… casual," Kallen blinks.

"The Stahlritter? Were they with Orouboros?"

"Not directly but they did supposedly work alongside them."

"So Duvalie in my world is with them…"

"Still, be careful. Duvalie is 'The Swift' for a reason."

"Who said I'm going to fight her? Arianrhod I'm fine with but why her? Because she's mad my mom and her superior are planning our supposed future together? Yeah, I'm good."

Cross his arms, he immediately snaps to the sense of something for a cling to resound. Looking at Kallen in front of him, blade against Duvalie's, his face furrows into an empty glare.

"You need to get that attitude of yours checked," he stated coldly.

"Then I take it you won't deny my challenge now, will you?" She smirked.

Silently, his eyes bore into her as their red coloration descended into pitch-black for a white slit to manifest. Next came a shockwave forcing the Stahlritter to skid across the clearing.

"With pleasure."

"Heh, excellent."

"Oh dear," Ennea sighs as everyone clears out leaving the two to face off. "Why must she act troublesome after we reunite?"

"Relon Lucinance. I have heard recently of his capabilities."

"Oh? Do tell~."

"Apparently, he had numerous fighting styles to face a specified situation including the ability to manipulate fire at will. He's defeated the likes of Victor Arseid and Arios MacLaine alike. Supposedly he destroyed the final reactor with a nuke-like attack."

"Wow, sentient swords, powers like the Almighty Conflagration, and accolades like that, not to mention he's the son to Vita Clotilde? Hey, Duvalie!" Ennea calls out. "If you're not interested, do you think I could test my hand at wooing the Arseid Conqueror?"
"NO!"

"Hmpf, so she is interested in him."

"A maiden's heart is a finicky thing," Ines mumbles to get a supportive nod from Ennea.

"Are you ready, Lucinance?"

Cracking his knuckles through his gloves, he gives a simple shake for both swords to go off to hover next to Kallen and Vita.

"Oh? Interesting," Arianrhod notes.

"You're not using your blades? How dare you underestimate me!"

"Shut up." Black flames emerge Relon flaring in size to wither out. "As I am, I won't need them."

"We'll see about that!" Off she blurred, seeming to vanish to the human eye.

"Hmm," Vita hums. "You're not going to intervene, are you?"

"We all must gain experience to the truth," Arianrhod says. "Otherwise, how do we better ourselves if we remain blind to what is before us?"

"You could just be honest and say you're teaching Duvalie a lesson," Vita deadpans.

"Whatever do you mean?"

"And you used to say I was bad," Vita chuckles.

"She's definitely fast," Kallen notes.

"Be honest, what are her odds?" Ennea wonders.

"Likely 50% at best, no?" Ines guesses.

"Not even close." Watching Duvalie strike, everyone can only look on at Relon having casually caught her blade with his hand. "Her chances…" She begins as Duvalie, wide eyed, looks at Relon reel back a fist. "Are in the negatives."

WHAM!

Striking her shield, Duvalie is sent like a bullet hurtling through several trees before crashing at the base of a large trunk. Eyes wide yet still, all through clearly visible gritted teeth, her body slides until it hits the ground.

"The victor has been decided," Arianrhod speaks as Relon takes a step towards Duvalie's still form for both girls to stand in his way. At the same time, Kallen stands protectively in front with her gun pointed at one and the blade at the other.

"We seriously aren't still doing this, are we?" Kallen challenges.

"No," Relon speaks, both knights widening to look behind at the boy walking off.

"When did he even have the chance…?"

"No more fighting please," he voices over his shoulder.

With a sigh, Kallen discards her weapons to cross her arms as Relon powers down. "Fine."

Squatting before Duvalie, he taps her cheek a few times until her face begins to scrunch as she stirs. Stepping back as she comes to, their eyes meet.

"You okay?" He asks, offering a hand for her to look away.

"You've beaten me. Now you take pity?"

"Why are you acting like this?"

"Like what? Go on, say it!" She growls.

"You got mad at me because your teacher and my mom was joking on us becoming romantically involved."

"Half joking!" Vita calls out.

"Shut up, Mother!" He barks back. "Then you attacked us, self-provoked mind you, when I originally was content with battling Arianrhod."

"And that caused such strength to manifest?" She scoffs.

"No," he points, catching her attention to see his finger directed at Kallen. "You attacked her! I could care less if it was just me but you nearly hurt Kallen, someone I care about. Someone innocent." That struck a nerve as she averts eye contact.

"I-"

"Duvalie," he cut off, expression stern. "I don't know what caused you to gain such an attitude but that way of expressing yourself needs to be kept in check. Otherwise you'll be hurt and I don't want that."

Suddenly, her eyes refocused more on Relon.

"What did you say?"

"I don't want you to get hurt. When I was younger, we met. Both of us were tasked with surviving in the wild for a week using only our weapons. It was a chance occurrence and our time together was interesting. Yet, once all was said and done, we were great friends. Just as the Duvalie from my world is still important to me, I'm going to treat you the same if not more. So, truce?"

She could only dumbly look at the hand that extended itself towards her, but more than that was the kind smile that graced the victor's features. She wanted to refute what her instincts told her was a lie, some ruse to seem innocent.

Yet, she didn't bark back. More so, she couldn't bring herself to.

"Fine." She'd relent and heed his words. For now.

Grasping his hand, he helped her up as she winces.

"Sorry for hitting you so hard," he said, wearing an apologetic look. One that made her eye him before she grunted as everyone approached.

"Don't be. I… regret the haste in my actions. I… am at fault."

"Wanna let bygones be bygones?" He offers.

"I shall agree to that proposition."

"Yay!" Turning, he feels the force of his mother glomp him affectionately. "Another to the harem!"

"Can… you… NOT!" Relon shouts, attempting to pry her off through a blush to no avail.

"Kallen, dear, I'll leave Relon's protection on our trip to you and Dubarry!"

"Huh?"

"EXCUSE ME?! MY NAME IS DUVALIE!"

"Now now, Dubarry, that's no way to talk to your future mother-in-law~," Ennea coos. "Unless you don't mind if Ines and I get to know Relon better~."

"No one will be getting to know anyone any better and that's final!" Duvalie denies.

"Awe~, so you just want to keep him to yourself, is that it? Meanie. I am genuinely curious.

"I am quite curious about his upbringing as well as his training regimen…" Ines mumbles.

"Ooh! Relon, you charmer! Ah, my son, making the entire Stahlritter smitten! That's my boy!"

"GET. OFF. OF. ME. ALREADY. YOU. FREAKING. CRAZY. WOMAN! PIPPIN, PAPPAN, HELP ME!" All either sword could do was keep on watching. Yet uncaring emotions both held rung loud within Relon. "HEY!"

"My Lord, what does she mean by protect?" Duvalie, clearly holding back another batch of unladylike words ready to be unleashed, asks kindly through gritted teeth.

"We shall be venturing with them to Heimdallr. Relon must undergo a mission. One that will aid in the coming battle against Zero."

"Why us though, My Lord?"

"Because Relon and Zero are seemingly one of the same." Sure enough, all dramatic chatter came to a sudden halt at the revelation with even Vita finally releasing Relon.

"One of the same?" Ines repeats in wonder.

"We both originate where Aidios belongs, believe it or not." With emphasis, both sentient swords orbit around Relon as he holds a black flame atop his hand. "I've recently gained the ability to absorb the dark energy he exudes so I plan to go to Heimdallr to hopefully further that ability and some others."

"A being not of Earth. How fascinating," Ennea muses.

"Technically, I was raised here on Earth. Not to mention I'm half human, have elemental being. Technically a quarter human and another quarter mage but still learning about that side of the family," he chuckles.

"My knights," Arianrhod calls. "Is this decision acceptable? I will not force you to go. I, myself, still intend on venturing with them however." At once, all three kneeled where they were.

"Where you go we go, My Lord."

"We shall always follow you, no matter the path, My Lord."

"It would be our honor to serve both you and Lord Relon."

"Please don't call me that," Relon sighs.

"You are royalty in the Beyond so that title is appropriate~."

"Mom. Shut up," he deadpans for the woman to giggle.

"I guess that's that then," Kallen surmises, looking at Relon. "The more protection you have, the better."

"I don't- Fine. I get that Shade and I are pivotal in beating Zero."

"With Zero seemingly backed into a corner, not to mention having a 'fond interest' in you specifically because of your matching origins, we can't take risks," Vita explains.

"Not to mention Grimoire is still out there somewhere. Last thing I need is a surprise visit from her again."

"I remember her claiming to be with this group called Senate."

"My world's version of Zero's Army led by an elemental known as Sephiroth. It's because of a big fight I had with him that I soon ended up here with Rinwell."

"Regardless, our objective remains; protect our Lord and now you," Duvalie notes, rising back up.

"Our bodies and souls are yours to use as you see fit," Ines gives a curt bow.

"Please don't word it like that!" Relon exclaims, fighting back the rising blush.

"We're in your care, Lord Relon~."

"I'm pretty sure he should be saying that to you," Kallen deadpans.

"Both of you, enough with the jokes!"

"What joke?" Both knights tilt their head, one more innocent than the other.

"Can we go?" Relon and Kallen ask, seeming defeated.

"Oh, this journey as short as it will be shall also be quite amusing." With that, Vita tapped her staff as everyone vanished.

Heimdallr

No matter how many times Relon walked along the streets of this ruined variant of the capital, he still felt the stinging sensation of conflict.

Seeing it in such a disheveled state hurt him yet not as much as he wanted it to. He knew the cause. His feelings were still mixed after what happened. Regardless, there was no right to cause such chaos across the land.

One look in the direction to the closest border and the looming dread returned over the roots blocking Erebonia. He believed they would defeat Zero. He just had to hope it would happen before those roots could do anything.

"You're thinking again," Kallen notes.

"It's a habit I've had ever since I was a kid. No fixing it, at least not without magic."

"No need to fix what isn't broken. One's mind is the greatest tool for human beings. All magic would do is affect that mentality. Enhancements to one's own intellect have always been… iffy."

"Iffy? I honestly didn't think you used a slang term like that since we reunited, Mom."

"Hmpf! I'm not even 30 yet in this world!" She scoffs, crossing her arms.

"If you're that young, how-"

"Aidios," all three answer in unison, cutting off Duvalie.

"Huh. Interesting," Arianrhod hums.

"What's also interesting is how we haven't run into any trouble."

"Zero only has Crest, his castle, and what little of his corrupted army left," Kallen explains. "Most of Erebonia, sans for the monsters, should be safe to travel around now."

"Could we be walking into a trap of sorts?"

"It fits his style," Duvalie scowls. "Lucinance, don't go so far ahead! How can we protect you if you don't stay with us!"

"Huh? But-"

"No buts!"

"Can you lay off for one second?" Kallen growls over her shoulder. "We're fine!"

"You dimwit, formation is key unless you want to perish on the battlefield!"

"Here they go again," Vita chuckles.

The venture into Heimdallr while not technically long per say had been lively. Mainly due to the clashing of opinions regarding Duvalie and surprisingly Kallen.

Ignoring Vita's and the added Ennea's own romantic jabs, both had for much of the journey butted heads over the well-being of Relon. Unsurprisingly, he had by the second argument gotten used to it and had thus accepted the curse likely at work. One dry look to a smirking Vita told his hypothesis was a clear-cut conclusion.

"Girls, Helios is the one guiding us. Not to mention we have Mom and Arianrhod."

"It's Lady Arianrhod," Duvalie hisses for Relon to roll his eyes.

"Ugh, Relon…"

"Kallen, be nice," he sighs. "We're all on the same side."

"Awe, Relon is so busy pampering both he isn't making time for us, Ines~."

"Duvalie has been keeping me from speaking to him for longer periods…"

"See? She just wants to keep her future husband to herself. Oh, woe is me! The cruelty!"

"Grrr, SHUT UP ENNEA!"

"Teehee~."

"Jeez," Relon grunts, recoiling from the Swift's loud scream.

"Same side, huh?" Kallen repeats, rubbing at her now aching ear.

"With a lot of personality to boot," he chuckles.

"Oh."

Stopping followed shortly by the others, Relon looks back to Vita gazing at a destroyed structure. Walking to stop next to her, he focuses more on its remains. It didn't take much effort to realize it was the Opera House given the hints at them being in the Garnier District.

One glance down an alleyway and a ping of nostalgia hit him.

Alfin…

"I didn't think I would come back here. I used to perform here for so many years."

"Weren't you hiding?"

"There is a thing called hiding in plain sight."

"What about your elemental signature?"

"How do you think I've hidden myself and Alister before joining Ouroboros? I'm good at my craft, dear."

"If you were here all that time…" He shakes his head. "Perhaps Luna guided me away from entering here that day knowing we'd eventually meet. Because I chose not to go inside and instead save Alfin, so much more happened in my life."

"In the end, we still reunited," Vita smiles, nudging him.

"Yeah. Hey, Mom?"

"Hm?"

"When I get back home, I wanna listen to you sing. Do you think that'd be okay?"

Smiling, one of endearment, she nods. "Make sure to bring the others, okay? I'll put on a performance that'll leave your future wives stunned. Look forward to it, girls~."

"H-Hey…!" Relon blushes, averting his gaze as she ruffles his hair.

Kallen, likely the most innocent, flushed red only able to nod dumbly. Ines, aloof still on Vita's s henanigans nodded in affirmation. Ennea clasped, eager for what was to eventually come. Duvalie… matched Kallen's face the closest.

Beet red face, quivering lips; totally not like her from what they've been used to.

"H-Hmpf!" It was likely all she herself could manage without further embarrassment.

"I too look forward to that day, Vita." Arianrhod smiles.

"You better not miss it," she winks.

Watch out! He approaches!

Head snapping up as does everyone else's, there atop the ruined tip of the Opera House stands the number one most hated villain in this world.

Red color rolling back, Relon's eyes become black with white slits as he glares at Zero.

"I knew you'd come, Relon. Though I did not foresee you having the Stahlritter or her with you. Kallen… you seem well."

"Zero!" She growls, taking aim as does Ennea.

"You knew?" Vita wonders. "Do tell, how exactly do you know so much?"

"Haha… Care to find out?"

CLING!

Wisps scattering in all directions as both Zero and Relon meet in the air, Relon's black eyes widen at the familiar weapon. Pushed off, he skids against the ground as Zero snaps it out to the side.

"That's… Pappan!"

"The very same when the Almighty Conflagration used it, I know!"

"You did something to him, didn't you?" Arianrhod narrows.

"Who knows? Can't seem to recall who he was, can you?"

"Bastard! I'll make you pay for what you did to everyone!" Duvalie calls, readying herself.

"Remain calm, Duvalie. Fighting on emotions is how we'll slip," Ines warns.

"No, go on. Show me how you really feel, Dubarry. A failed knight who couldn't even protect her master, much less her own sisters, does not deserve to be one. Your title is Swift yet you were the slowest when it came to saving those you loved. And Kallen… I expected so much and now you're just a lost lamb clinging to the first thing for safety. Even now you're trembling. Why? Afraid to shoot the one you once followed without question, traitor?"

"S-Shut up!"

"Nothing you say matters! Just die, Zero!"

"Ah yes. The usual 'die' here and 'do this or else' that everyone gives. You both, deep down, truly are pathe-"

BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!

"DON'T YOU DARE TALK ABOUT DUVALIE OR KALLEN!" Wings exploding to life, Relon gives chase around the buildings for one to explode in darkness.

"WHAT'S WRONG, RELON? DID I TOUCH A NERVE?!"

"DOZENS! SCREW WAITING! YOU'RE GOING DOWN, RIGHT HERE AND NOW!"

Black fire met pure darkness as the cityscape around them became coated in their elemental residue.

"Ah, ah, ah! Where's the fun in that?!" Flickering out of existence, easily evading a double slash, he reappears back-to-back with Relon. "All good things come to those who wait, Relon."

That made Relon widen to ease his tensed body. "Why aren't you stopping me then? Surely you're not as weak as you made yourself seem yesterday."

"Oh, but I am quite weak. So much that I haven't left my castle." At that, Relon swings, slicing Zero in two as the entity's body fades away. "Soon you'll understand everything, Relon Lucinance…"

As quick as he had come, he was gone.

Huffing, eyes scanning for even the smallest detail and senses feeling for anything negative, he clicks his teeth as he descends back to the ground reverting to normal.

"Helios, who the hell is Zero?"

He felt his tenant's presence, yet nothing was said. Only the approaching sounds of footsteps came as in a light Vita appeared.

"Relon!"

"Are you alright?!"

One look around and only a short distance away lied Mater Park.

"I'm fine." Raising a hand, the countless black energy and flames funneled around the group before being sucked into his hand ending with a snap. "Let's go."

"So that was your true strength…" Ines comments.

"To see one able to match Zero first hand, it's relieving I suppose would be the accurate thing to say," Ennea breathes out, likely due to the sudden sprint they made.

One subtle glance at both Kallen and Duvalie told that Zero's words had gotten to them.

Approaching the Crystal Garden, memories with Alfin resurface. Quickly shaking them away, his eyes dilate into slits once more.

"Down we go."

With a hop, they drop into the hole.

Catacomb (Heimdallr)

Relon wanted to be surprised yet he wasn't, not in the absolute slightest. Finding a hidden tunnel leading to who knows where was one thing, but in Heimdallr? Nah, this was just another Monday of underground exploration.

His training years ago with his dad has fizzled out all the surprise and disbelief his young mind could hold in the capital at least.

Then there were the monsters. With how far underground they were, it somewhat made sense that the roots didn't affect the cave dwellers. Still, watching them hopelessly attack did seem to somewhat ease Kallen and Duvalie as they were the first to take action.

Duvalie's title as the Swift wasn't an exaggeration. If it wasn't for his enhanced visual abilities, he'd struggle to keep up with her. To think that the Duvalie in his world probably mirrors this one means he'd struggle without the help of Nameless. Kallen's own worries weren't warranted as Duvalie always covered her blindspots.

Kallen's freedom from Zero hadn't hindered her abilities in the slightest. Where Duvalie's speed was her greatest weapon, Kallen's was her adaptability and maneuverability. She identified the strengths of the creatures and countered perfectly, going as far as to use Duvalie just so she could position herself better.

In short; despite their arguing, both were a monstrous team together.

Watching Kallen put away her dagger and gun, he looks over at Duvalie sheathe her own weapons.

"Nice work," he spoke.

"They seem somewhat better," Ines notes.

"Yes, just about I'd wager."

"Still, even I did not expect catacombs like these to dwell," Vita comments. "These seem to be from the Dark Ages. In hindsight, it makes sense."

"I would agree. The texture and architecture seems to fit from what I can recall as well."

"How can you- Better yet, not gonna ask."

"Hehe, a woman has her ways, you know~." Vita jokes.

"Of course," he sighs to catch both girls look to him expectantly. "Nice work."

"Hmpf. These monsters aren't a challenge in the slightest."

"I agree," Kallen said much more kindly. "These seem strong but there's little to no sense of Zero's corruption."

"That goes without saying," Duvalie scoffs. "If the two of us can slay these beasts, then there is no threat present. At least not yet."

"Regardless, you two's synergy is really good. Perhaps its just because of your fighting styles…" Relon muses.

"I'm just fighting as I always have," Kallen shrugs. "Being observant is one thing but given… my past, it helps knowing how Duvalie fights." Despite the pain in admitting it, Relon was relieved to see her turning a super negative realization into a positive at least.

"Just make sure you keep doing what you're doing and stay out of my way! Lucinance, don't get complacent just because we're on the frontline!" Without waiting for a response, Duvalie took off.

"Despite your differences in opinions, it's relieving to see you two coordinate so well when fighting at least," Relon says to Kallen.

"I told you, it's easy given-"

"I know. But even if your past actions weren't included, you're going out your way to protect her. That's a major step in the right way from what the old you did," he smiles patting her shoulder. "Come on, Duvalie will need our help."

"O-Oh, right!" Quickly catching up to momentarily walk alongside him, her eyes go to the male. "Thanks Relon, for everything." As quick as she had said it, she jogged back up as within seconds they were back to bickering about something pointless.

"Haha, happy to help."

"You're had quite the impact on her," Vita says, walking up to take Kallen's previous spot.

"I just did-"

"What anyone would do. I am aware, but you specifically did something no one else could achieve. You took the darkness out of her heart. At least, all of the bad parts."

"There's good darkness?"

"You have Helios, do you not?"

"I'm confused."

"It's just a metaphorical interpretation, my dear," she chuckles. "Kallen still recalls all that she's done, yet she's using her dark past to move forward. Not just for herself, but for you."

"You just have to make everything, romantical don't you?"

"Love is a powerful thing after all~."

"It is one way to evolve after all."

"Speaking of~..."

"Here we go," he lightly groans.

"We're still a slight ways away so why not make a little chatter?"

"With who?" Smiling, she gestures her head subtly to both knights. "Seriously? Now of all times?" He deadpans.

"You're not even dissuading me from offering more wife options. Very well done."

"I've accepted your antics at this point. I just hope when I get back you won't continue like this."

"As Misty I will but I won't be fortunate enough to offer much time as Vita. Sephiroth and Ishmelga's sensing abilities are annoyingly accurate. Even with my magic."

"So I won't see much of Alister either."

"That's a different story."

"Huh?"

"He'll likely pop in from time to time at your school unannounced. I somewhat recall him doing that. Or something of the such. Did he say he'd pop up then or at random times at night?"

"Please tell me you're joking," Relon sweatdrops. "If he did that, surely Senate would act."

"I don't know. I doubt it. Senate attacking a military school like Thors given their reputation's image on a campus would hinder their goals. Besides, since I'll be in my Misty disguise, I'll be able to enjoy my son's quality school life! Ooh, I just remember you have the Old Schoolhouse! I can train you in there outside of Senate's reach! Oh, this works out even better than we last discussed during our training session in Eryn!"

On and on, she went gushing over more ideas than she had before. During their break in testing out his altered Spirit Unification, they had broken to discuss more common and simple chatter. The likes of his first awakening in Ymir, his training in Legram and Heimdallr, Vita's own experiences as a Lucinance, such things. It was a decent break but one he'd cherish just as this one.

"Mom?"

"Yes?"

"When I get back, let's chat over dinner. You, me, and Alister. My treat. I can make some good tea," he winks, grinning a grin only a child could manage.

One look and that endearing smile reammerged. With a tender hand ruffling his hair, she stepped forward.

"I look forward to it."

With their moment over, their trek resumed. Kallen and Duvalie managed the front with no issues. Any attempt at an ambush was denied by the precision of Ennea's bow and the force of Ines' halberd. He, Vita, and Arianrhod for much of the exploration simply walked as their "guards" tended to any opposition.

Then again, their time trekking further and further down did give way to an opportunity to better acquaint himself with the other two knights. Ines revealing her past as a bracer, hence her fondness for martial arts while Ennea opened slightly about the DG Cult, another evil organization he thought to have heard in passing by Renne and the others. Between telling of his father in his world and the countless stories of his time at the orphanage, he felt a friendly connection with the two begin to form.

Though it didn't help Ennea jokingly call out about "getting to know him better" to Duvalie. Who in turn slayed the monster she and Kallen were preoccupied with before marching over and dragging Relon away to everyone's amusement.

He didn't know why but Duvalie was reminding him of Alisa for some odd reason. He had to admit, as much as a part of him didn't want to, all three girls excluding the obviously gorgeous Arianrhod were beautiful in their own right.

Ines' ponytail was a style he had particularly become fond. Ennea, despite being a fighter, had such lovely hair that the countless waves in it made him wonder how she tended to it given his past work with Alfin on maintaining her seemingly endless blonde hair. As for Duvalie, she was the supposed youngest, still slightly matching Claire in age. The spinning braid-bun she had was neat and the hair-fanatic side of him wanted to ask questions regarding the choice of style and its maintenance.

As for their more reputable sides…

He had the easiest time discussing with Ines. She was straightforward on everything, rather curt to the point. An aspect he understood and appreciated. Plus their similar interests in fighting and conversing over topics related helped cover the sounds of slaughtering monsters.

Ennea was a second Musse in a sense. Where Musse would poke and flaunt an air of confidence towards him while remaining a tease all the while, the exact same could be said for Ennea towards Duvalie. She poked at the "supposed" infatuation Duvalie had, she flaunted about being one of his future wives, something he kept glaring at his mother and Arianrhod for supporting for some reason or another, and she just openly flirted with him without regard for the growling Duvalie and observative Kallen.

Then there was Duvalie herself. Her personality was defiant, bolstering strong determination that he both respected and admired yet to the few, she had a soft side and she clearly took things to heart. Zero's taunt's was a clear jab at her inability to do much when practically her family was warped to the dark side. Yet because she now had her family back she was doing all she could to ensure they'd be safe.

He admired that. A lot.

That selflessness reminded him of… well himself.

"We've arrived."

True to that, the once narrow space quickly opened, unveiling a large chamber of sorts illuminated by the flames alight on the walls.

"Now what, Relon?" Kallen calls looking around to notice the male quietly step past her. "Relon?"

"Where are you going?" Duvalie calls out as the male crouches down.

"Everyone? You may want to get back a safe distance."

Not questioning, both girls retreat as Vita places a barrier.

"What does he plan to do with that random bone?"

"I have a feeling and I don't know if it's good or not yet…" Vita notes warrily.

Taking a deep breath, Relon slowly reaches out to the solid structure. He could visually see the same oozing power that exuded from him when he used Helios' power. Yet, ever since arriving in Heimdallr, Helios had barely spoken, only guiding his direction through sensations.

Once again, the quiet tenant within Relon urged him to touch the artifact.

So he did.

Then it all came rushing at once. An insurmountable level of power so heavy he stumbled backwards, dropping the relic in the process. Legs giving out, he fell clutching his stomach.

"Relon? What's wrong?" Kallen called.

"G-Get… back!"

The next thing Kallen felt amongst pure confusion was the burst of black flames exploding, coveting the entire chamber.

"WATCH OUT!" Veiling over them was a blue and white barrier parting the flow of endless flames and darkness alike encompassed the chamber.

Yanked in time by Duvalie, Kallen and the rest could only look on as tints of purple shade shone through the pitch-black space they found themselves in.

"Vita/Master!" The girls exclaim to both women fending off the rumbling elements.

"Is he evolving again? No, this is something else…! Damn, why can't I recall what"

"Regardless, do we push forward or refrain?" Arianrhod grunted, amplifying her own powers to repel the elemental onslaught.

"We have to do something! Remaining here while he's suffering is inexcusable!"

"If we move, then what will happen to us?!" Ennea argued to the redhead. "There's so much power swirling that the moment we step out, we could be consumed!"

"If we don't act, what will become of Relon?!" Duvalie roared, snapp all her way.

There was a moment of realization that came upon those words departing from the knight's mouth. The thought of facing the frantic unknown space did not- could not compare to the mere idea of losing him.

Then she moved.

Lunging past both Vita and Arianrhod, Kallen bolted into the raw elements vanishing before their very eyes.

"KALLEN, COME BACK!"

She knew better than anyone what it was like to be shrouded in such dense darkness. She knew better than anyone amongst their groups how much Relon's flames could hurt.

Even if this chamber- no. The entire world succumbed to that lone color so many despise, she'd be fine. After all…

"I was Zero's left hand! Seeing in the dark… is second nature!"

As if flipping a light switch, the flames, the color black, vanished yet the force remained. There, hovering just off the air, Relon hunched over exuding tear-like wisps.

He seemed so defenseless, like an infant.

With a crouch, she lept only to be pummeled away by the invisible elemental force. Whether out of desperation to save him, to pull him to where there was still a dim light, or something more yet still unknown she didn't know.

All she cared about in this viscous, turbulent-filled chaos of pure power, was to save the one who had saved her. She wanted to be next to him, to ensure that whatever he was experiencing; he wouldn't be alone!

"Relon!"

Then she flickered.

One moment she was so far away. The next, she embraced him and in doing so, she saw it.

Unknown

He felt weightless. As though just wading along on a cloud. His body felt as normal as when he was a child. No sense of strength, no lingering sensations from his experienced battles.

Darkness filled his vision. A single voice, muddled, could be heard in the distance.

"N…"

"Re…"

"Die…"

As his mind attempted to pierce the wall separating the sound from his urge at comprehension, the more he sensed a dire flux of emotions.

The black void whirled in coloration as unknown and familiar settings alike blurred through his vision. Countless voices echoed from all directions before suddenly, it all ceased. Once again, he found himself at Thors.

The air was calm. The children played as the birds chirped. The once lino flowers were no more, barely showing signs of returning to their original state when he first basked in their captivating beauty.

Then he noticed it. The pillar of light far off in the direction of Thors. Deep within, he felt his heart beat in response. This pulse was unfamiliar yet strong. Something was calling him.

Without thinking, he ran. Through the small town, up the incline, and through Thors. Then he came to a screeching halt.

The Old Schoolhouse was glowing indeed. There was a barrier of some sorts as noted by Instructor Sara with Towa, George, the Principal and several other faces he either recognized or didn't.

"Instructor Sara?"

"They can't hear you."

His guard wasn't down, he was ready for anything. Yet, there he stood. Another face matching Relon's own. More disheveled, beaten, worn down; simply tired.

"Zero!" He growled, hand snapping for nothing to come out.

"You're… not wrong. I am and I'm not Zero."

"Explain. Now!" Relon growls, still flicking his hand.

"Calm down, Relon. I'm not here to fight."

" b Hard to believe after all you've done!"

"I can only imagine how many mistakes I've made."

"What do you mean 'imagine?'"

"It's easier to show than tell."

Walking past him, Zero's hand reaches out for Sara.

"HEY!" Stepping only to see it fade through the unbothered woman, Relon furrows in confusion. "What…?"

"Come on." Without any resistance, Zero stepped through the barrier. "I have much to show you." With that, he vanished into the schoolhouse.

"Hey, wait!" In after him Relon went only for the world to become a ruined field of blades as far as the eye can see. "Where… are we?"

"The final trial," Zero speaks looking far off at a transient creature being fought by Class VII.

"Everyone!" Upon closer inspection, he found himself amongst the group cradling a blue-haired little girl. "Who is-"

"Just watch."

"Watch what- Whoa!" Raising his eyes from the sudden flash and heat, they quickly readjust to the pillar of purple flames.

"Our awakening." Crouching down from the force while Zero looks on unfazed, his eyes watch as the purple spiral seems to rip across the entire voided sky as the endless dune surge in response.

"It's just like earlier in Trista!"

"In a space as special as this, it was too perfect a place to occur."

It was like a wildfire, the very air around them instilled an incredible scorching sensation. Then the funnel exploded.

Standing there with both blades in hand was a future version of himself. One arm reignited in the burning red flames given by his red mark and along the other… purple flames churned through the power of the now see-through purple mark.

"ABLAZE!" His future self bellowed, the hot air vanishing as his voice seemed to trail to the fair corners of this mysterious space.

"Just as we were warned, she died and we still couldn't save her. When the moment finally presented itself, we failed to do anything."

"We?" Relon voiced, his eyes daring to not leave the spectacle as his future self incinerates the creature in flames as colors explode blinding his vision.

Coming to, he found himself amongst the wintery tundra belonging to Ymir.

"What's-"

"A war would come, one hinted at several times. Yet, when it came no one saw it coming. Distraught and separated, we ventured to Legram reuniting with Laura, Aurelia, and Emma."

"You keep saying 'we!' What do you-"

"Then we eventually met with Claire and the others. Here, Ymir was our base of operations. Only a little over a month or so had passed by this point when it happened."

"Stop interrupting me! When what happened?!"

Then he felt it, the same power exploded far off in the distance. A red pillar of flames erupted like a geyser ridding the once blanket sky.

"Our second evolution through rage."

With a look of confusion and panic, he ran. Down the same familiar path he had ventured upward when only a child, Relon came to a skidding halt at the sight of his future self slowly descend from the air.

Only then did he notice his friends and classmates scattered all over the city fighting foes of their own. Yet the sole being that was his future self brought all attention, even the fight of the two specially-designed machine halted. His once black hair now flowed a fiery red as it swayed in tandem with the power his future self exuded. Only as his eyes scoured the city-turned-battlefield did his eyes land on Vita and Alister.

"Mom? Alister?" A brief glance down and he noticed Pappan back with Alister. "Why is Pappan-"

"VITAAAAAAAAAAAAA!" In a burst of red flames, his self vanished reappearing with a fist embedded in Vita's stomach as a moment late she's sent back and over the cliff to vanish. "ALISTEEEEEEEER!"

One swing of Pippin and a forcefield emerged belonging to none other than an irate-looking Vita.

"I'll handle him," she spoke, ominous gaze matching his future self's own.

In a flash of blue and red encapsulating purple, both vanished blurring all around the town at blinding speeds. The essence of pure-untapped elemental power collided with the abundance of magic.

Reappearing right in front of himself and Zero, Relon can only look on as both blitz past and up the trail he just descended.

"Wait!"

"Time waits for no one," Zero notes, regaining his attention. "Not even us." Upon the deliverance of said words, both appeared in the sky.

Head snapping up to hear only worlds of anguish from his future self, future Relon manifests a large orb of fire. Watching his other self soar for an awaiting Vita, he vanished in flames to Relon and Vita's shock. Appearing behind her, she barely conjures a shield to fend off the attack as its force alone blows everyone as far back against the home structures as their bodies will go.

"WHY AM I FIGHTING MY MOM?!"

"Because we believed they were wrong."

"Wrong? Wrong for what?" Blinking, his head once again jerks to find himself in Celdic.

"For hurting Noro."

Rushing in a blur of heat past his stunned form, his body slowly turned, registering the blazing source of heat. His body churned, internally writhing at the mere sight before him.

His home, the orphanage, stood ablaze.

His body just moved, manifesting as much strength as it would allow as he chased his future self into the burning structure. Even as the familiar voices of his classmates called out, neither him or his other self stopped. Into the darkness alit in flames they went.

"NORO!"

"NORO!"

"No one can hear you."

"SHUT UP! NORO!" Deeper in, he went mirroring the inspected locations against his other self before reaching the lunchroom. "WHERE'S AUNT CECILY?! SILVER?! BLAZE?!"

"Away fetching necessities."

"Where is she-"

"The basement!" His future self realized, punching the ground to jump down followed by Relon. "NORO! NORO!"

"WHERE ARE YOU, NOROWARETA! NO-"

"NO-"

There, body covered by burning debris with blood and particles evaporating lied Norowareta. Her body unmoving yet her eyes bore lifelessly upon Relon.

"N-No…" He breathed, his body tensing as his future self dropped to his knees before the motionless girl.

Silently, his other self moved the debris out one by one. Reaching for her, particles seeping out steadily, he picks her up.

Turning around as the flames all around seeped into his body, he slowly walked away.

"Noro…" Relon gritted, fighting back the rolling tears. "WHY?! DAMN IT, WHY?! WHY?!"

"Because this is what he wanted."

"WHO?!" Relon exclaimed, grabbing Zero by the collar. "WHO DARED?! WHO WOULD… WOULD…" Eyes scrunching from even daring to utter the horrid reality, they open to find himself in an open field amidst a sudden downpour of rain.

Looking over to see his future self cradling the remaining upper half of Noro, her body vanished in one final plume.

"I'm sorry, Noro… I'm… so… sorry…!" Around him, purple flames swirled dangerously. Until they burst, funneling around in a plume of flames into the sky tinting the very clouds in its amethyst glow.

"ANOTHER EVOLUTION?!"

Down the flames simmered leaving his future self still. His hair, blazing red, did not stir his body to retreat. What did… were his violet slitted eyes. Then he vanished.

"Where…?"

"To kill the one that took Noro from us."

"Who?!"

"Jusis' own father, Helmut Albarea."

"What?! Why would-"

"War breeds needs. People, hungry for power are under the illusion that they need more. Other choices too lie there but…" Halting for the world to warp to stand in a castle burning in a shade of red, Relon could only look at Class VII ascend a large elevator before facing off against Vita and a silver-haired male. "All still hold consequences."

Furrowing, Relon feels the odd sensation of his future self walk through him. Looking to what he's holding, his body gives another phantom pain in ache.

"One down," Future Relon says coldly, tossing a dead Alister before Vita's feet. "One to go."

The inhumane sounds and wails Vita gave upon seeing the corpse of Alister matched Relon's own. He couldn't talk, much less move. His mind was in a frenzy, his emotions were outstretched in multiple directions, unable to tame himself. He could only watch.

"Relon!" Rean called, moving in between his future self and Vita. "You've gone too far!"

"Relon, cease these inhumane actions!" Laura pleads.

One by one, his classmates' pleas were heard by him only to fall on deaf ears.

"So you're all siding with her…? The woman working with Senate? Wow…" Red and purple flames manifest around him. "So much for friendship, huh?"

"Relon, you need to be stop-"

In a single movement, Future Relon blitzed past the group, swiping the blood off of Pippin. Flopping to the ground, the headless corpse of the silver-haired male.

"So much for friendship, huh? Let's end this already."

Chaos. That was all that ensued. One by one, he could only watch helplessly as his own self massacred his friends one by one until only Vita remained. Throughout it all, that unnerved, empty, expression held firm amongst the room of defeated heroes.

"Relon…" A defeated Vita managed out, weakly reaching for her staff as her feathered familiar lied dead. "Why…?"

"As far as I see it, you failed as a parent. You caused her to die. It's only fair. One life for another."

"Your sister… wasn't meant to exist!"

"Yet she did. You caused her death so I killed McBurn. Next, I'll get rid of you."

"It seems you've reached your conclusion." Looking back to see none other than Sephiroth oozing in Ishmelga's power, Relon's own flames begin to churn as Helios roars though Sephiroth is unfazed. "Magnificent. Only you could tame such a cryptid. Relon, you've defeated all of Senate and here I stand. You've finally charted a path that matched my own for you now understand what needs to be done Now, take our power," he requests with open arms. "Through the power of Aidios we leeched from Kanade, our power shall become yours!"

It was over in an instant.

It seemed so easy. So unfathomably easy.

His future self had literally severed Sephiroth in two. His body simply flopped to the ground so casually it seemed unreal.

"Finally," he breathes, powering down. "Senate's over. The title of Senate Hunter ends!" Future Relon grits his teeth in victory filled with anguish. "Noro, I did it… I finally…!"

"TAKE IT…! MY POWER!" Lifting his head back to the misty entity of pure darkness, he rises.

"Ishmelga… Ah, I see. Fine, I'll use you to ensure the future I seek comes true." Reaching out his hand, the darkness latches onto him as his skin darkness. Shockwave after shockwave erupts throughout the room as his appearance begins to alter slightly.

"Re…lon…!" Vita groans.

"To have such power… I-" Ceasing mid sentence as his eyes widen to become pitch-black, his back arches. "AARRRRGGGHHHHHH!"

Screens begin to emerge all across the room of unfamiliar memories.

"What… is this?!"

"Memories. Belonging to us, yet not our own," Zero explains. "In short…"

Upon further inspection, countless versions of Relon living lives of their own can be seen before they vanish.

"Ha…ha… The Relonverse, huh?" Future Relon grins eerily. "So, I'm no longer the original. No… I never was. Only here. And now there's a new Relon Lucinance being born. Repeating what I did…"

With a snap, the top of the Infernal Castle vanishes. Gazing up to the red sky, his black hand stretches outward.

"There can only be one God and that… will be me!" At that declaration, his body shimmered in the familiar blurry light reminiscent of Luna's power only for it to alter to a pitch-black before seeping into his form. "Omnipotence, the power of a God is finally at my hand. Upon my words- no. My order, I shall remake this world! Order! Kill Aidios! Leave NOTHING on the Beyond!" Then he fired.

A single black beam that pierced the heavens into the unknown distance.

Relon could only look up, unable to do a thing as the sky boomed in an array of lights and the ground quaked before all went deafly silent. Only the growing laughter of his future self could be heard before he exploded into maniacal laughter.

"N-No…! How… could you…?!"

Halting on a dime, likely having forgotten the weakened Vita even there, his future self tilts his head towards the woman.

"Simple. I have the power now, Vita. Still…" He reverts to his original state. "Out of all the people, to think I'd have to fight Class VII and the SSS…"

"What… are you… talking about?"

"You think I came straight here to deal with you and Alister? Pfft, I killed everyone in Crossbell before joining up with the Courageous. They had the audacity to attempt to stop me from facing you both. To think they'd even bring in Arios. I'll admit, Lloyd reminded me a lot of Rean. Stubborn until the end. Not that humans could combat an elemental hybrid. Especially one that's ascended to Stage 2 fully."

"Killed…? Ascended…? That's not-"

"NOT WHAT?!" He exclaims blurring to hold her by her throat as they shoot into the air. "NOT HOW YOU RAISED ME?! YOU DIDN'T! Speaking of…" Teleporting back to the throne room, he drops Vita as he looks to the heavens. "Order! Remove the orphanage I grew up in, all under the Namikaze name and who claim as members of the family… from existence!"

"What?!"

The world flashed in response.

"Now, to make this world into my image. Arise…" From him, countless spawns manifested into dark versions of himself. "Go," he commanded, all either vanishing in an instant or flying off. "Order! Any killed by my hand ressurect under my rule!" Before them, the corpses of his friends began to contort their mangled form into place as one by one, they rise.

With a heavy sigh, his future self looked at the world before him. "Musse, your death shall be the first step towards a new world…"

Then a flash of red resonated. One look past a dead ginger that wasn't Elliot had all eyes go to the machine with the crown prince embedded.

"Testa-Rossa? You want me as your Awakener? Haha… Hahahaha! Don't make me laugh! I have no interest in being linked to a hunk of metal!" With a thrust, a tendril of darkness struck through the prince and the machine before the veil of red light dimmed to nothing. "Now that that's done…" At his words, the world shifted into a decrepit-looking throne room.

Relon could only internally watch alongside Zero as his future corrupted self stood before himself and Shade with a dead Kallen between them.

"I see. He'll come here, distraught over the loss of his loved ones. He'll succeed in defeating my opposition, kill Laura and come to speak. Then that Kallen student will intervene. Hmm, I'll decide whether to kill him or beseech my plan to him. As for you, Vita, don't mess this up like you did with me. Until then…"

"Relon… don't…!"

"Order. Remove all traces of elemental power from Vita Clotilde and wipe her memories of everything related to the Beyond, including me."

"No! No! No…! N-" Down she flopped unconscious.

"Sorry, Mom, this is the path I've chosen and I can't stop now. Erk!" He winces to inspect his glowing arm. "Helios, I nearly forgot," he adds to glance at Pippin still holding down Pappan. "You two have helped me out when I was at my lowest. That's why… Order! Sever my connection to the Dark Dragon and Kernviter!" Relon could only catch the glimpse of an astonished Pippin zoom for him to vanish. Recoiling to grasp his arm in flames as the odd markings began to vanish, he fell to a knee holding it. "Crap… I've used… too much… Even as a God, the strain on using orders is still new. I need to adjust. I just need to stall for a while until my body recovers. Then… I'll see for myself if this 'prime' Relon is worthy…"

Then the world flashed, bringing Relon to a white plain.

"Now you know," his future self spoke, walking ahead to gaze off the cliffside. "Zero and Relon are one of the same. Zero, the original Trails Relon within the Relonverse failed, descending down a dark path. Thus, a new branch sprouted. One that held you," he explains, turning to face Relon's weakened form. "When I absorbed Ishmelga's malevolence, it was imbued with Helios replacing my flames with darkness. Unbeknownst to myself, however, Helios returned to the place where I first encountered him. Taking a piece of darkness with him, a portion belonging to the merged version of myself and Ishmelga. That explains how and why Helios can absorb Zero's- my darkness. Why it can extinguish the malevolence in one's heart under my control."

"When you arrived in this world, Helios likely connected to you given our bodies are the same. A link was made and with you becoming angry enough, Helios began to gain power and stir until he was strong enough to make his presence known." Walking to Relon, he kneels, taking a hold of his hands. "I've… done far too much wrong. The royal family, Musse, our family and friends. But Relon, you have to stop me. Shade can't fight Zero alone. Zero has countless failsafes prepared. Failsafes only we can deal with! Please! Defeat me! Save not only this world, but our universes!"

His mind was a muddled mess. The tears kept rolling as he looked at his own face pleading at him. He couldn't move, his heart was in such a pain that the term "ache" did not scratch the surface. He could only allow tears to trail down his scrunched and weary face as the Zero before him began to fade.

"Please…! Stop Senate…! Stop the traitor at Thors…! And… stop… me…!"

Day 0

As if a spectator before Relon, she saw it all. From the Old Schoolhouse, knowledge that didn't belong to her yet somehow now held, to the birth of Zero. With every image, every sentence spoken, her own soul ached.

The one who had saved her was also the very same being that caused arguably the greatest despair known to humankind.

No…

That wasn't right. Zero had a cause for doing this. He lost his way, just as she had. Relon hadn't. He was still looking straight ahead. He brought her ont o that same path that he was charting.

She nearly forgot something so crucial.

He had saved her.

Now it was her turn to save him. No matter the cost.

"I'm here." It was a gentle voice, one so soothing that it snapped the male from his own dazed trance. "Relon, it's going to be okay!"

She didn't know how but it would. From nothing, a will manifested. That will had an urge, a goal that birthed from within. To Kallen, that goal was simple; help Relon and defeat Zero at all cost.

"G-Get back…!" Bit by bit, the tears of agony began to cease as she held him close. "I might…! What I could become, it'll…!"

"Don't worry! Let it out. I'll bear it all with you," she spoke, cerulean smiling fondly at vermilion.

Then he churned for a moment, writhing in agony, before he simply let go.

For a moment, everything abruptly stopped. Then came the swirling funnel of power that orbited the duo.

With only a fog and residual flames remaining, everyone could only look to the auras of two silhouettes.

"Kallen…" It was all he could muster. "I'm sorry! I'm so, so, sorry!"

As the mist began to disperse, the approaching group could only sound out gasps of surprise and astonishment.

"Don't worry. I'm okay. I'm used to this. At least this form is a lot tamer than my last," she joked, inspecting herself.

No longer was her hair red or eyes blue. Similar to Relon's own form, the malevolence exuding from her being flowed as though tame.

"Relon, Kallen, how are you feeling?" Vita urged, worry evident as she looked between the two.

"I'm… okay," Kallen managed, glancing at Relon's perturbed visage. "Erm…"

"We're alive," he murmured as they powered down. "That's what matters. Kallen, did you…?" A wry smile in condolence was her answer in tandem with a nod. "Oh…" Shaking his head, he looked at everyone sporting mixed expressions. "How…" He paused, readjusting. "How long did that go on?"

"Well over an entire day," Arianrhod answers. "We have only a few hours until the battle commences."

"Can someone explain what the hell happened?!" Duvalie exclaims.

Powering down in unison, Relon moves to stumble. Feeling Kallen catch him, he winces to inspect his arm finding unfamiliar glowing symbols dissolve.

You endured the truth. Now, we are ready.

"Helios…"

"That's… complicated," Kallen frowned.

"Oh? Do elaborate. While you charged off worrying me- I mean us, we were forced to remain behind that barrier hoping both of you would fare well when all was said and done!"

"It's amazing how fast Duvalie has come to care for them, huh Ines?" Ennea giggled.

"Indeed. I am rather surprised."

"THAT IS NOT IMPORTANT! WHAT IS-"

"Duvalie, calm down." Arianrhod calmly said, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Both are safe and sound. The passage of power Relon obtained seems to have done more than originally expected." At that, her eyes linger on Kallen.

"My power was an amplifier but a strong one. If I had to give an example then I suppose it's similar to Spirit Unification in that sense."

"Is it safe to use that power?"

"Yeah. I regained it not through Zero, but Relon. And to an extent, Helios."

"That explains that trick you pulled earlier," Duvalie scoffs, crossing her arm.

"Honestly, I don't know how I did it. I thought I lost all of my abilities given by Zero but maybe my body simply relearned them differently in some way. Before my ability had me return to what I cherished most, that being my Guren."

"That mech, right?" Duvalie asks to get a nod.

"But now it's Relon," she adds, glancing his way once more.

"Given your duty regarding protecting him, it fits," Ennea chuckles. "We're all just relieved nothing ill became of you two."

"I second that. Were something to happen, I would not be able to forgive myself."

"Hmpf, both are as reckless as the other. Lucinance, next time you wish to try something, warn us better next time!"

"It's not like he could predict what would happen," Ines sweatdrops.

"DOESN'T MATTER!"

As the group fell into distinct chatter, Relon didn't have to shift his gaze to feel Vita move next to him.

"You're quiet. Something happened."

His body did not respond. Not because he forced it not to, but rather due to the mentally strained fatigue that he still felt from the bombardment of revelations.

"I'm getting some air."

"Relon." Turning around, he catches a small bag. "Eat up while you can," she smiled.

With a nod, he departed, slipping past the distracted group. Up the slope he went back into the tunnel. Taking in the fresh air as he neared the entryway, his eyes adjusted to the dim sky attempting to break, alter its own tinted color from the coming sun.

Finding a piece of debris belonging to a broken ceiling, he munches on a sandwich.

You've gone quiet.

Silently, he chewed.

If you wish to berate me, then I shall not retaliate.

Then he swallowed before standing up.

"Berate you? No… I have only myself to blame for everything. So it has to be me that puts a stop to Zero, to me."

The current you is not at fault.

"Yet a future version of myself is." Watching the dim outcast begin to lighten, his eyes went to his own shadow. "Arise," he ordered. In an instant, small draconid-like creatures flew out to orbit him as black, gray, and green humanoid creature with smoky wisps kneeled before him. "To think that'd actually work…"

Spawns manifested from my own darkness.

"Got any names?" Relon absently asked, kneeling to pat the innocent-looking creature.

Why name creatures that act on my very will?

"Looking like a marshmallow kinda. If you live in my shadow then… why not Marshadow?" Surprisingly, the creature nodded giving a tiny salute before looking towards the entrance. Following his gaze, he found Kallen.

"New friends?"

"Helios'," Relon answers, averting his gaze back to the air creatures scour the area. "Only a few but they'll come in handy I'm sure."

"Relon? Can you look at me?"

"Why? Surely it'll bring nothing good. Look what I did to this Erebonia." Standing up to watch the creatures sink/fly into his shadow, he relents to find feel her embrace.

"You're not Zero."

"Yet-"

"Stop that!" She snaps, pulling away to look him dead in his eyes. "What he did you haven't and wouldn't!"

"You don't know that, I don't know that! Even if I do things differently, there's the risk of me becoming Zero! There's a greater risk of you…!" Pushing her off of him, he involuntarily gags nothing out at the thought. "I can't. Not again. You died in that throne room! If we go there in a few hours, then you may actually end up dead! I can't have that happen! I won't… I can't… Not again," he grimaces, clutching his chest.

"Relon, there's no guarantee that'll happen."

"Is there? Because that vision showed us defeating everything he threw. The monsters, the corrupted people, our friends, destroying the reactors; all of it! No matter what we did, all we ending up doing is go back to him. A version of me that expected it all to happen. For all we know, the reactors did nothing but bide time for this day to come! Now it's here, the others are off to possibly their own deaths until we get there and! And…!" He falls dejectedly, slumping to the ground. "I believed Laura died because of Zero and not me. Now look, Zero is me. It didn't matter. Everything was preordained from the start. I thought I could alter things but it seems that isn't the case."

Even at the notice of steps approach, he honestly couldn't care. One life-changing event after another; it was always him that was the root fo the problem. Senate's attack on Celdic. He initiated the conflict earlier against Shifu's students. Now here. His other self, fallen on a darker path caused everything here to occur.

"If you don't do something, Rinwell and Shizuna will die." It was a cold sentence with all emotion absent. As his widened eyes slowly lifted, they met Kallen's on warped visage. "Their lives, two more precious than an insignificant life like mine isn't a fair trade. We both know that, don't we Zero?" That struct a nerve.

"What was that?!" He growled, getting to his feet. "What did you call me?!"

"Oh? Now you want to take offense? Didn't you admit to being Zero though?"

"No, I-"

"Then clearly you admit to nearly committing mass genocide on the human race. Forcing all to bend to your very will. As far as I see it, you're nearly there," she shrugs. "May as well…" She flickers out of existence to appear behind Relon restraining him. "Start your evil streak early!"

"Let go!"

"Come on, use that strength you used to kill all of those people!"

"Kallen!"

"Do it, Zero!"

"Stop calling me that!"

"Make me!"

"Kallen, enough!"

"If you want to do something, then you know what you have to do!"

"I… SAID… ENOUGH!" In a burst of flames, he transforms for Kallen to narrowly avoid the blast radius. "I'M NOT ZERO! I'M RELON TARBIN NAMIKAZE-LUCINANCE!" With a fierce look of anger, he eyes the girl to finally notice her endearing smile.

"Good."

It was such a sudden split change that his eyes scrunched, attempting to comprehend the sudden change. Returning to normal as she approached, he could only pant slightly from the rush of emotions.

"Why did you do that?"

"Because you were speaking nonsense. And because I took slight offense," she adds. "Relon, just listen to me. Really listen, okay?"

"... Fine."

"You're not a bad person. Bad things just… unfortunately happen to you due to bad circumstances."

"Some of which are my fault."

"Yet had you not intervened when you did, even worse outcomes could have happened!"

That was when it hit him. Like a bell resounding in a chamber unfamiliar to the meaning of "noise." What she said hell truth behind it. Had he not fought Po and the others, then that train could have crashed and lives could have been saved. Had he not helped take down the reactors…

"Had I not destroyed that reactor, Uncle Victor, Rean; everyone wouldn't have been saved… Shit, I nearly lost it again," he scolds himself.

If she did not get through, then my method would have.

Relon didn't even want to question what Helios' method even was.

"In that vision, only you, me, and Shade could be seen. Meaning that in that future you probably arrive late. If we arrive early then maybe we can alter the fate of not just the others but this world. Surely something like that is childsplay for a Senate Hunter like Relon Lucinance." The cheeky grin the girl sported sudden did numbers for his recovering heartache.

"Thanks, Kallen. I… I'm sorry. I also owe you one."

"Nah, you saved me so I saved you. I promised to help and protect you and I plan to do just that." He could only chuckle at her positivity.

"I'll be counting on you." Turning, about to depart back, he feels the sudden familiar embrace of her wrap him from behind. "What are-"

"Just… let me be selfish for a moment. In case we don't get another chance like this. Or something unexpected happens."

"Hey…" Breaking her hold to her slight worry, he pulls her close. Ignoring the slight yelp, after a moment she recedes the gesture, resting her face into the safe space that is the crook of his neck. "No matter what, we'll win. All of us, okay?" Even as he felt her nod, he continued to caress her red hair.

"Relon, thank you. For everything, really."

"Right back at you, Kallen. Every time I feel myself slip, you and the others have helped me time and time again. Zero no longer calls himself Relon. That's an important point you helped me realize. That'll be the key to fixing this mess."

Watching her pull back wide-eyed at the interpretation, her face eases into a smile.

"Seems we better get ready. I'll go get the others then. Oh, and Relon?"

"Yeah?"

It was sudden and his guard was down. Because of these two instances lining up, he failed to catch the quick peck to his cheek as she ran off.

"Stop dropping your guard! Can't afford that in a few hours!" She grinned, vanishing into the catacombs, leaving a blinking Relon to dumbly hold his cheek.

"Huh?"

That curse is quite potent. Even now it acts in mysterious ways.

"Y-Yeah…"

Now that we are fully alone, I wish to pass on something… dire.

Head lifting in acknowledgement, noting of the wording that sentence held, Relon furrowed.

What is it?

We have become strong. Much stronger now that even when you destroyed the final reactor. My power, in tandem with yours, now has reached a point you can summon my physical form.

I'm aware. Even without seeing it, I could feel the immense power that radiated on my arm.

If all options fail and you summon me, I shall absorb Zero into my own being. Our darkness matches one another and thus I shall be able to consume him.

Why keep it last. Unless…

Yes. In absorbing my previous partner, I shall likely perish as our own darknesses battle for dominance.

"Helios, no! You've suffered just like the rest of us! Risking a self-sacrifice move like that-"

Again, it is a last resort should the worst outcome arrive. If you believe your own strengths with the one called Shade, your little witch, and your future wives, and other humans are enough, then the need may never arise. Treat this as our last discussion. I shall begin preparing your arts…

"Helios," he called, eyes going to Kallen bringing out a nagging Duvalie and the others in tow. "Just watch. We'll do it. We'll stop this madness once and for all. Somehow."

Hmm… Then I shall look out for your truth, Relon Lucinance.

Zero's Castle

"These creatures of yours have been most helpful!" Arianrhod called out, over the turbulence as the sounds of chaos raged far ahead. "However, both sides have their own objectives. Thus, this is where we shall part. Vita, Kallen, Relon; may the odds be ever in your favor. No… May Aidios guide you all."

"Our time together may have been short but it was fun," Ennea smiled.

"Until we meet again. Let us vanquish this evil and celebrate at our reunion," Ines spoke.

"Vita, Lucinance, Kozuki, we'll do what we must so you three better end this! Got it?!"

"We hear you, Dubarry," Kallen smirks.

"Y-You…! I shall have my vengeance once this farce ends!"

Looking down to the battlefield filled with bullets, explosions, arts, and everything of the sort, Relon's mind immediately was reminded of that fateful day.

No…

Today would be different. They'd succeed. Simple as that.

"Don't die on us, you four," Relon spoke.

Looking at him, various expressions of confidence exuded from them all.

"Same to you," was all Duvalie gave as they leaned off their draconids falling into the battle down below.

Eyes drawing on the castle now only a short distance away, black markings seep across Relon's body as he senses his other self's presence in its highest density.

"Move!" He commanded as with a shrill shrieks, the dragons flapped forward blurring across the wrecked land.

Eyes locked on explosion from a part of the castle, he saw it as did the other two.

Shade's body falling.

"We can't be too late!" Kallen grimaced for Relon's creature to seep into him as he launched off naked to the eye.

Only in doing so did they see another figure, unfamiliar yet the presence they sported immediately told Kallen who they were.

"Go!" Vita, urged as she pointed her staff at Shade.

Watching Shade's body descend via Vita, Relon knew he had nothing to worry over. They had reached a vita point to change everything and he'd unleash his rage. Below, slowly turning to catch his form coated in symbols, Relon immediately recognized the familiar heartbeat as Crest. Now, he'd finish what was started.

"Lucinance Art…" He began, hands clasping in a form of hand sign as the glyphs shimmered a bright shade of red.

"RELON… LUCINANCE!" Crest roars in defiance.

"ASHEN AMBUSCADE!"

He knew the moment he began training in art casting that his internal issue with casting would hinder himself. If a single art so simple a novice could cast with a partial glance was delayed by hours, then there was no point in learning something small. Nothing he, the Senate Hunter, did was ever small. Thus, he worked effortlessly to produce an art none would see coming.

Breaking the black clouds, countless molten meteors descend encircling the tower.

Watching Crest's very bones swirl into a spear, the warped man prepares to strike for Relon to meet him first with the ball of his foot.

"Ack!" He gasps, sent into the falling attack.

Such… strength! N-No! I must defend Lord Zero!

Righting himself to buck his eyes in confusion at the countless portals, he catches Relon holding Pappan to vanish along with the casted art.

"NO! WHERE?! WHERE?! WHY CAN'T I SENSE HIM?!"

"It's quite simple." Stiff body going still, his eyes cut to see Kallen atop Pippin. "Relon enters another dimensional pocket when he uses that sword." She could see it. The realization dawning on the man. "No level of magic or enhanced elemental power or malevolence will find him."

"You filthy traitor… You and I were Lord Zero's right and left hand!" He roars, his momentum now sending him descending to the castle.

"You're right," she says. "Were."

Without a care, she averted from the falling man as a large portal emerged above the tower. From it, molten balls of fire spew out.

"I SHALL DEFEND LORD ZERO!" At that proclamation, he vanishes.

"You idiot," Kallen mumbles.

The moment he appeared, he could only stare as once again, the fireballs vanished into a larger portal.

"What?" Perhaps it was the genuine confusion he faced, or the lack of information. It didn't matter. Above lied not the fire spheres, but Relon now holding Pippin. "Impossible…!"

It was all he could muster as portals surrounding the tower manifested as the Lucinance spell leaked into reality once more.

At once, the wings around Relon sprouted to life as his eyes dulled. Black malevolence unlike Crest's own writhed in agony like an injured spirit as an internal roar only he could hear bellowed.

"Solar Impact: Malevolent Eclipse!"

His eyes followed Relon before his vision went black.

One slash. Four Slashes. Six slashes. Fourteen slashes.

A countless barrage of hits struck his body, each mirroring the time on a clock. Yet each slash was not its own, another struck with it. He could feel it, the power of two attacks in one.

Forced to open his eyes, all he could do was helplessly watch as the surrounding tower's pointed spire passed. His body was on fire. Metaphorically and literally. The power of his recovery abilities were cancelled out by the elemental flames' heat making contact with his insides.

He only needed a moment to act, even if it killed him. Then that opportunity came.

He groaned as the tip of Pippin embedded itself in his chin. Then he felt his body and vision spin before he crashed into the metal tiles.

Immediately, his eyes snapped open to the diving male. His body ached and his ability to stand was weakened but his hands were more than enough.

"DIE!" He roared, slamming his open palms as bone wrapped around eerie roots before encircling the descending hybrid.

"Truly, you are a fool."

He could barely make out her blurry form above him. All he felt was something hot touch his neck as his focus waned. Thus did his attack.

"Kallen!" It was all he could sound as she vanished before his eyes.

S-So, that's how… I see… Lord Zero, I've…

The thought never finished. All that came was the sound of piercing flesh drowned out by the black-flamed funnels.

Reappearing before everyone and a smiling Vita, Kallen releases a breath she hadn't known to have held.

"I take it Crest has been defeated?"

"Yes. Easier than I had thought. No complaints though."

"Good. Just in time to watch the power of Relon's first art. Come, everyone." With a tap, everyone is warped onto a large magical platform. On the opened roof a short distance where they once lied, the black-flamed geyser. Attacking the multiple black force fields were Relon's attack.

"That's Relon's art?" Rinwell awes as the art, similar to her own Meteor Storm.

"Wait." Shizuna widens. "Is that what you two were practicing together?!"

"One of a few things, yes." Vita winked. "Of course, there are problems with it too. Such as his mind-boggling casting time. It takes eons to cast even the simplest art. But given the opportunity presented for us, it would seem clearly worth it. Look."

True to her words, the black force fields begin to crack as the molten flames seem to get bigger.

"They're not weakening," Van notes. "It's like Munechika's spell she casted yesterday."

"Correct. Relon fought Zero once in his mind. While doing so, he unconsciously performed this exact phenomenon. He mixed his own mana with malevolence. In doing so, it gained the passive effect of absorbing other malevolence and extending his own ability's lifetime."

"But since all Zero is filled with is malevolence, Relon's art is just sucking all the power from Zero!" Swin awes.

"And when Zero's forcefield is all out of juice…!" Nadia realizes as the moment reaches that point. With a crumble, the balls of fire strike.

"The shape inspired by Rinwell's Shooting Star, the effects similar to Munechika, the potency and power all his own; it is a combined culmination of the Hexen and Lucinance Clan. The first spell contributing from both families," Vita smiles as dense, large, explosions ignite like a chain reaction.

Shockwave after shockwave crashed against the bodies as waves of heat enveloped the air.

"There's so much fire!"

"What about Relon?!"

"Don't worry," Kallen calls, looking on with an impassive face though the glint in her eyes shows respect and admiration above all. "It's all according to his plan."

"Did you all forget? They can absorb heat?" Vita adds.

"But, he has a limit!" Rinwell remarks. "Unless…"

"Unless the capacity to hold such has increased." Shizuna notes. "Wait, they…?"

"Then Relon isn't the one absorbing all that fire." Munechika says.

"Not the only one at least!" Rinwell shoots to her feet only to stumble.

"That attack is covering every nook and cranny of the castle. What's to say Zero isn't getting hurt too?" Swin asks.

"That's also the plan. The hopeful part at least," Kallen notes. Watching the sea of flames begin to swirl, less and less becomes noticeable as it is seemingly dragged into the air. With a pop, black wisps explode in all directions.

"I think we know where Zero is," Van comments as all see the once evil structure completely in ruins sans for a single chamber at the highest point.

"Shall we?" Not awaiting an answer, Vita gives a tap for everyone to be warped to where they once were.

With the roofing gone and much of the flooring in tatters, that left a single line for them to take to where Zero awaited.

"Well, he made that easy at least." Van sighs.

"Much easier." Elaine corrects in agreement.

Watching Relon slowly descend from the air, his form reverts back to normal as he lands for Pippin to remove itself from his grip. With a carefully long breath, he looks to the path ahead.

"There you are," he mumbles.

Turning back, he immediately feels the chop of a hand atop his head.

"You lasted longer than we agreed on, mister."

"Phrasing, mother," he retorts. "We needed as much as we could get. Every ounce matters." Ignoring the woman's light scolding, he looks at everyone. "Looks like we're all here. Good."

We did it. We managed to save everyone.

Fate as you used to say… 'is a finicky thing.'

… Yeah. Finally using an art felt enthralling even. Thanks for the help, Helios.

You have one left so be aware. Channeling such power while you use my own hinders the charge time. I've nearly completed the second art.

I'll keep that in mind.

"About time," Shade stood, clearly struggling slightly from fatigue. "You're lucky I had some form of help to use my power, otherwise Rinwell and Munechika would have been skinned…" His breathing was ragged. Despite the mask, one could tell he was more annoyed than anything.

"Well then it's a good thing you did power up." Vita speaks. "Otherwise, what we still have to do would be much harder."

"For us at least," Kallen notes with a sigh, looking at the silent Relon. Knowing only Shade would have come out of their fight against Crest made her wonder given his current self. In the vision he was beat up but not to this point. Then again, he had his healing factor so the question now became how exactly the other Shade defeated Crest? Oh well, they'd never know now.

"What, no quip this time?" Shade called towards Relon who remained silent. "You look like you saw a dog get kicked, or ran over by a car…"

Blinking at his fellow protagonist, Relon takes a step pivoting for the path to halt.

"Let's just get this over with." Without waiting, both swords took their places at his side as he began the trek ahead.

"I saw that coming," Vita sighs.

"Explain." Shizuna spoke, worry taking over her own level of fatigue as she and Kallen took off at a steady pace for Relon.

"That is the hard part." Kallen notes. "We'll try to explain on the way."

"Relon!"

"Shizuna, some things happened so just give him a sec."

"He isn't talking and that's a red flag, you know."

"He's just focusing right now. He'll talk, just let him do whatever for now."

"Right when we're about to fight Zero of all people? Seriously?"

"A lot happened in a short time," Kallen repeats, her own fallen expression not helping to ease Shizuna's worries. "He's acting this way to make sure we all live."

That made her eyes narrow. "The Perception of Time?"

"Something like that. Just… give him time."

"I take it you saw whatever this was?"

"... Yeah."

One look at the downcrested expression Kallen sported, she finally breathed out a frustrated sigh. "Fine. Let's go."

The sounds of battle were dying down outside the ruined city as everyone walked into the base of the tower with the exterior mostly in tatters. Inside however were many objects, artifacts known through various means.

Stopping, Relon's mind returned to the vision of his future self as he eyed the large body of what looked like a red mech.

"Testa-Rossa…" Shade mutters.

"Relon?" Rinwell voices in wonder. One look he was caught in his staring.

Wordlessly, he departed once more.

"Hoot…"

"I know, Hootle. It's like when we arrived in this Erebonia all over again. And I don't like it."

"Vita, what exactly transpired during your absence?" Munechika asks.

"That's a difficult question to answer. A lot would be a good answer but Kallen has already used that so I suppose 'he learned many things' would be an appropriate answer. Things which he hasn't disclosed even to I."

"So he's leaving us in the dark to hide stuff. Again," Van mumbles.

"No," Vita shakes her head. "Before, he held back as he felt the need to understand who he was simply didn't matter. Now, he's holding back for another reason entirely."

"Relon, you recognize it, don't you?" Shade calls out.

Stopping to stare back, he nodded before regaining his pace.

"Relon, what happened?" Shizuna asks to receive no response. "Relon, speak to us!"

Once again, he just stops mid-step.

"Shizuna, Relon has gotten stronger." Kallen began. "Not just in strength but knowledge as well."

"I get that! I don't see why he has to keep silent from us though!"

"Because Zero is here."

In an instant to everyone's slight surprise, Relon's altered form manifested in the blink of an eye. Before anyone could utter a response, his focus went to the elevator ahead.

"Marshadow," he calls.

"What's a Marshadow?" Nadia wondered for Relon's shadow to extend, naturally to everyone's further shock as out from it said creature.

"Go," Relon ordered for the creature to nod before sinking into the floor as a moment later, the elevator gained the same wispy appearance. Exiting his form, Relon looks back to all of us. "Into the elevator. Then we can talk."

"I think I understand somewhat, what you found out…" Shade noted, walking forward towards the elevator with the others following.

Entering one after another, Van closed it for the controls to activate on their own.

"What the?"

"Relax," Relon says. "Marshadow is moving the elevator."

"O-Oh." Rinwell breathes out. "I guess it's better than trusting Zero to not drop us. Not like we would do such a thing."

"You'd be surprised how many would trust an enemy elevator," Relon mumbles remembering the Infernal Castle.

"Going down would lead to his labs," Shade notes, leaning against the wall. "I sensed them when I was powered up. Labs, cells, it's an entire underground system. Still, I don't mind this elevator going slow, allowing us to talk and prepare."

"We're about to fight an elemental that's altered the world of morality into his 'supposed image.' Take this break as that and then some." Relon retorted, kneeling to place a palm at the center of the room.

"What are you doing now?"

"Making sure Zero doesn't pull any other tricks." With that, the wispy flooring began to flail as blobs emerged like reverse raindrops. Manifesting an eye for limbs to emerge, the sight disgusting to some, miniature dragons fly around him. "Go," he commanded as they flew through the ceiling. "Now then, let's talk."

"You saw the Knight, who knows what else from your future, am I right?"

"The Perception of Time was damaged but its original ability still remains the same, only now it has altered because of Sephiroth and Ishmelga. Unlike our previous hypothesis on it being damaged. In short, yes, I saw the future. Too much of it than I would like." It was subtle but he had to avert from the looks his group passively gave.

"I have an idea of two events that you could have seen, so how far ahead did you see?"

"Up to the Infernal Flame Palace. That's when I was somewhat forced to cease my spectating." He'd rather not bring up the fact Kallen knew.

"I was told about it by a few people, some you know. I know it wasn't a good day, nor time. Add on those that hate you and I can see it getting worse, I guess it makes sense why you are pissed off."

Blinking at Shade, he shakes his head.

Remain simple, not complicated.

"Yeah. Very," he said.

"But you're cool now, right?" Van asked with crossed arms. "You're not going to pull anything else insane out are you?"

"I will," Relon admits with an indifferent shrug. "As we are now, we have to."

"You and Helios," Rinwell notes, catching his phrasing.

"Worried?"

"Of course not. You know we'd help even if you didn't want it."

"I am all too aware." He gave a roll of his eyes.

"Knowing you I bet you have about five more things to show off. With me I have one thing…" Shade comments looking at his slightly shaking hand. "I'm ready for what's to come!"

"Good. If you weren't, I'd keep you in this elevator until you were." Relon said, finally releasing his hand from the floor. "With the amount of malevolence Helios and I gained, we'll be capable of a lot so you can relax if worse comes to shove." He adds, leaning against the wall as he eyes Kallen inspecting her blade.

"Shade taking a breather from the front lines?" Nadia arches a brow. "That's quite the thing to say. Hmm, now I wonder. Who's stronger? You or Shade?"

"Does it matter? We have them both fighting Zero." Swin sighs.

"Huh," Rinwell blinked. "You know, when we first came here, you both did spar." She speaks for all heads to pique at attention.

"Oh?" Vita wonders. "Do tell, how did that end?"

"With Shade massacring a bunch of wolves," Rinwell nervously chuckled. "But they agreed to end in a tie. Relon had just recovered from our own problems in our world. Plus he didn't have his fire powers. Still, it was a close match."

"Hmm, is that so…" Nadia smiled, eyeing me.

"Don't forget I didn't want to fight in the first place," Shade notes. "Relon had to make me pretty much which I still hate by the way!"

"If I had to suffer by Valkyrie and Ishmelga, you could survive a small fisticuff. Not to mention, I had to really see where my nerfed form was at the time. Who better than against an opponent around my skill level."

"Still annoying. Didn't help I had to hold back so I wouldn't take an arm, unlike what you did!"

"Sacrifices had to be made for the generous well-being of thy status. The Lucinance Foundation appreciates your generosity." Relon shrugs indifferently for some giggles to emerge.

"Heh, glad to have helped. You being an asshole is actually helping me for I can't wait to let the other side take over for once~"

"I am all too aware."

"Now that we're all here, does anyone care to say anything before the final battle?" Vita asks. "Speak now or forever hold your peace." Despite the genuine tone, her eyes move between Relon and Shizuna and Kallen.

"Your motherly side is something else, Vita." Elaine deadpans.

"Seriously, Relon, I feel for you."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Erm, nothing. Just sending my condolences to a fellow guy against an unstoppable force." (Damn women.)

"Pfft," Nadia and Rinwell snickers, having heard his comment.

For a moment, all simply bask in the ambient mood. Then, their eyes turned to the two boys.

"Urg, fine! I'll do the speech, don't expect much… At the top of this tower is that asshole Zero, looking down at us, seeing everything as a show, I say let's give him the greatest show one could think of~! He wants to fight us, oh he will, he'll see what humanity can do, what we can do! Despair? Fuck that, time to show him the hope for everyone, the light everyone is looking for, so when the sun sets, it will rise tomorrow!"

"He wants to revert everything to nothingness, to zero," Relon began. "He's taken countless lives, desecrated multiple towns and countless countries. He's left us to fend with only what we had on our backs. Our loved ones, the people dear to us, even those that have helped us along the way; we have to end this. For our fates, for our friends, for the hope in seeing the light at the end of this dark tunnel; we must persevere. Let's restore the color of life to the world and make the Earth blue with life, not black with death."

"Was two power speeches really necessary?" Rinwell deadpans.

"Yes. Yes it was."

"If I knew he was going to say one I would've kept quiet… We're nearly there."

"Oh, I know. I just waited until you relented." Relon shrugs indifferently with a smug grin for it to mellow out as he moves for the middle looking at the ceiling. Leeching from it, a singular dragon came back. "So far I'm reading him." He mumbles, petting the creature as it slinks off into his shadow.

He wasted no time in destroying our spawns yet kept this one alive?

One look to the door and his body tensed.

You truly believe your method shall work? Despite all that has transpired?

Won't know unless I try.

"Asshole…" Shade cursed, staring at the doors. "He's sitting down, looking right at the door, good chance he wants to talk before we fight."

"Good. Because I have plenty I want to talk to him about."

The elevator stopped moving, then the doors slowly creaked open to show a familiar throne room. Sitting atop their throne with an impassive look, his eyes shimmered black in glee.

The final battle had finally arrived.

---

A/N: You know it's bad when I have to make a "Chapter 4.5" but we're about there. Just editing and then it'll be up. Be sure to check out Dantheman2000009's side of this collab from Shade's pov!

Also, did anyone catch the sonic songs referenced in Relon's five stages of grief XD?