In the confines of a really dark lab, there was someone who was standing in front of a large screen. It showed something that looked like a series of Bakugan battles, each screen taking up an even number on the holographic modulator for the man and his Bakugan to bear witness to.

Neither said anything on the matter presented. But the notion was noted on another smaller computer screen. Graphic charts were shown to show the measure of power released from the Bakugan on the screens. From what he's seen, they were comprised of the Bakugan belonging to Hades Pillars, as well as Riaan. And on another screen, it showed Mystic Elico with DNA helixes.

Another person walked into the room, stopping meters away from his master. "Master…it is done."

The man looked back over his shoulder. "So then…they're up and running now, I take it?"

"Yes. We've managed to pull together enough of the equipment to handle the information and signals. Klaus is overlooking the progress as we speak. Though I should warn you, our signals may be spotty, but so dimensional transport is still risky."

"I see." The man paused. His blue eyeball behind his mask dilated in and out. "In that case, why don't we give it a test run. I'd like to see how far our little infestation has led since their last visit here."

"As you wish." The assistant walked up past his master to face the holographic computer keys. He started punching in coordinates and typed in a series of connections and passcodes that took a short while to accomplish. With one more touch, the screen started a download session, with the bar buffering. They waited for the screen to eventually reach full capacity, and finally showed a visual.

The screen changed, revealing a snow-like landscape. There was a show of the dark night sky as a series of battles were happening behind a reporter who was atop a cliff to get the best coverage.

"Well done, Gus." The master chimed.

"Thank you, Master Spectra. For now, we can get reception from other signals. According to this, the broadcast was on a planet called Neathia."

"I see."

The Bakugan on his shoulder raised his head at a familiar sight. "Is that Drago?" On the screen showed the camera focused on Drago and Radizen as they fought Nastix with an ominous aura around its body. As it gurgled, they all watched their attacks do nothing to even faze it.

"This is Julie, live from the biggest battle taking place in the universe! We've got the Battle Brawlers fighting for their lives against this hideous threat intending to destroy everything! So far it looks like Dan and Drago are neck and neck with these creeps. Stay strong guys!"

"It seems Dan Kuso has finally stepped out of the shadows at last." Gus said. "Sir, what do you suggest?"

Spectra said nothing. He continued observing the monitor in silence. The broadcast continued, focused still on Drago and Radizen, but he was more invested on the other battles in the background. He recognized them by the forms they took and the battlers with them. A smirked crossed his face.

"It seems our friends have been rather busy." He chuckled. "How interesting." He continued watching the broadcast for a while longer. He watched the Mobile Assault vehicles launch, up to where the flare of light illuminated the dawn to come. "Gus, I have a little favor to ask you…"

Inside the Empyrean at the top, Riaan's walls were aligned in broad, shimmering chrome that made the room crystal clear. The heat taken from the planet had been absorbed to make it warm and toasty, although the circumstances that Riaan was under made him feel anything but comfortable.

"Gnnngh…!" He winced in his seat, grimacing at the wound left on him from his battle earlier. Even after administering treatment to close the wound, his human-like body still felt the lingering pain. "Seems they were more fortunate than I could have hoped. Hehe…"

"Master, will you be well?" Armagedoid asked, his tone hinting worry.

"Do not worry yourself with my safety, Armagedoid. I'm well." He answered. "Though, I do appreciate your concerns. My apologies for getting out of hand. Seems the thrill of battle swept me off my feet back there."

"…"

"But everything went to as Lucia foretold. At sunrise, someone's blood stained the white snow. And true to form the prediction came true. As it stands, we now have one less foe to worry about. The sea of corpses continues to rise beneath."

The room was filled with a pressing silence. It was hard to say about what can be done for the circumstances, but for now Riaan had to keep himself occupied with the next phase of the plans to come. Armagedoid was all with him, though, judging by the way his ball form's head looked out blankly, it could be said he was lost in thoughts.

"Armagedoid, is there something wrong?"

The headpiece lowered a little. "Uh, no Master. I'm well." He paused, realizing he wasn't being truthful. He looked down. "My apologies, it's just…the enemies whom we have fought. What they said, it's confusing me."

"Do you mean Luka and Paradox Brontes?" he elaborated. "…yes, I supposed that their manner of thinking is to be heavily considered. Exactly what is it about them troubles you?"

"They spoke much about 'living' their lives so much that it gave them genuine hope. I understand that they're my enemies, but the way they were so moved…it's like they became entirely different creatures. I still follow through, but to have taken their lives when they were so passionate about them, I feel…unsatisfied with myself." He turned towards Riaan. "Master, is it wrong for me to think this way for an enemy?"

Riaan was left silent at this revelation. His eyes went wide at Armagedoid showing sympathy. He looked down at his knees, trying to figure out what could be said. He closed his eyes, furrowing his brow until his expression softened. Once he was calm, he reopened them with his own answer in mind. He faced Armagedoid, an empathetic frown cascading.

"No, Armagedoid. It's completely normal for you to feel this way for an enemy. You have nothing to be ashamed of, I promise you that."

"Do you feel the same way?"

Riaan paused, looking out at to space. The thrill he had facing Luka brought a light to his own. It was the first time – perhaps in eons – that he actually felt threatened by another creature. It was a close call, but it proved one thing: He wasn't infallible. "To be frank Armagedoid…yes, I do. You see, in battle is when we come to understand our enemies, as much as we do ourselves. The harder someone fights, the more idealistic they're perceived. I understand Luka's will to live his life, as I do my own. That acknowledgement is perhaps the greatest respect anyone could give towards their enemy. That answers your question?"

Armagedoid looked up, his conscience having taken in everything. "Acknowledging my enemy's ideals…their need to live their lives out." His head lowered. "I think I understand now, Master."

"That's good." Riaan paused to frown. "But Armagedoid, listen. This is just my experience, so it's up to you to consider this, but even though we respected our opponents, that doesn't mean that we should waver on their behalf. We've fought them and won, in doing so we must remember why they were against us from the start. If we waver because of what they believed in, how can we respect the fallen?" He paused, opening his eyes. "This is what it means to fight, Armagedoid. It's not a prideful path we've chosen. No, far from it. But it's a burden that we must follow through with. No matter how many foes that fall or stand, we're doing this because of them as well, not just for ourselves. We'll give them a fight and respect their ideals…and we'll use those as the flames to keep us going until the end."

Armagedoid took in everything bit by bit. Riaan's words were spoken calmly and effective to answer his question and his own opinion. In doing so, he paused for a long time until he understood the message, sentence by sentence.

After several minutes of silence, the Bakugan raised his head, the guilting his heart resolved with assurance. "I understand, Master. Then for them, we will continue fighting our way."

Riaan smiled. "Very well. Then we will live our lives as well. For now, we must rest…and save ourselves for the next front."

"Agreed." He closed his ball form, in which Riaan sat back in his throne to watch the night sky twinkle.

Hours went by quick and it was nighttime on Neathia. The sun had hardly provided warmth since the morning, leaving the temperature to feel as cold as winter itself. But to those on the Trailer, everything including time itself was a block of ice.

Everyone amongst the group was on the lower deck of the Trailer. They were all sitting around with the air contaminated with a dejection that's been there for hours. Maggie was along the wall hugging her knees to her forehead. She felt like crying, but the best she could get right was sniffles. Shawn leaned against a chair with folded arms, his face contorted to a mix of grief and anger. Esther had her head down in sadness. Shuji was facing a wall that had several dents in it…though his knuckles were on the verge of bleeding. The only one who seemed calm and composed was Jase, who stood up casually.

The Bakugan were the same, though severely as dejected. They wanted to try and cheer everyone up, but if Maggie wasn't up for it, then they knew this wasn't the right time.

For the umpteenth time, the wall thumped with Shuji's fist making a dent in it. His teeth gnashed as he felt the pain run through his hand.

"Shuji…stop it." Shawn grunted.

Shuji turned away from the wall, his gaze on the ground. He knew Shawn was right and that it wasn't helping, but he needed to vent just a little more. "…sorry." He apologized.

"Well this sure sucks." Fly Beetle blunted.

"Yeah, we know." Verias murmured, his tone low.

"And after all we did to get this far, even after taking everything thrown at us we still…!" He paused, unable to bear the guilt. Like Shuji, he looked down in guilt.

"This isn't right. Why did this have to happen?" Maggie's voice was broken and disheartened. "I wish…he shouldn't have…"

"Maggie…" Jelldon hopped onto her shoulder, grieving tenderly. "I'm sad, too."

Maggie sniffled, but it didn't help make the situation better for anyone. "…when I fought Lucia, she told me that someone would die."

Everyone turned towards her.

"She told me that it was pointless trying to fight fate, but we've gotten this far holding onto the fate that we were trying so hard to mend for ourselves. We could've-no, we should've fought harder. If we did, then maybe Luka wouldn't have…"

Esther walked over to comfort Maggie. She was taking it well despite her reservations of grief. "Maggie…it's going to be okay."

Shuji balled his fists in growing frustration. "That damn bastard. He's gone too far this time. When I see him I'm going to-!"

"That's quite enough, everyone!"

The tone was fairly strict, almost to where it could be seen as a demand. Everyone turned to the resonation of the tune, which happened to be a certain soldier who asserted himself with a serious frown.

"Jase." Atmos noted. He never heard Jase's tone so loud before. Nobody did.

The air fell silent as Jase cleared his throat to correct himself. "My apologies, I didn't intend to get that harsh. A slip of the tongue."

"Jase…" Esther's voice cracked.

A moment passed before Jase continued. "Listen. It's fine for you to care this much about Luka, but don't forget why we're all hear. We knew that there would be a chance we may all die, yet it appears you've disregarded it. How do you think Luka would feel seeing you all mull over his efforts like this?"

Shawn thought about Jase's words, rubbing the back of his head awkwardly. "He'd probably call us out for moping around like this."

"Precisely. Don't take it as personally as you think you should." He turned around stoically. "As a comrade, I, too, am disheartened by his loss. He's been nothing if not an aid in our time." He looked up. "But, as a soldier, one loss is nothing in the grand scheme of war. The mission remains the same. If our morale waivers because of this, it'll do no justice for anyone now, would it."

"You're right." Esther frowned. "Besides, we're not the ones who were there. The one's who're really hurting right now is…"

The Trailer went silent for the umpteenth time. The subject dawned onto a certain someone who was taking the loss worse than all of them. Thankfully he wasn't here right now.

"Perhaps we should go check on them." Atchibee insisted. "We should check to see if they're well."

Shuji huffed. "Don't bother. If that were me, I'd wanna find a place to hide, too."

Jase stepped forward. "As crude in reference, Shuji's point remains valid. It's best to leave them be for a while longer…it's the least they deserve."

Maggie looked down despondently. "If you think so…"

"I wish there was something we could do to help." Jelldon hoped.

"The best possible way to help them is to let them help themselves." Jase said. "They'll come to their senses soon enough; they'll slow us down otherwise…" As everyone gave him a look, he spoke further. "But, I think I know them well enough to know they won't stay down for very long. They'll come around eventually. For now, we just wait."

Esther looked down at her ample chest, unable to let go of the guilt of someone whom she knew all well. "Luke…"

Perched on top of the Trailer overlooking the snow white yonder was a single person, someone with red hair, Beside him on the top as well was Abis Omega in open ball form. Both gazed up at the nighttime sky, watching the stars dazzle brightly overhead. The strangest part was, they felt anything but dazzled.

Just looking at the sky was enough to hurt. The twinkling stars reminded them of the friends they've lost today. The fact that it happened hours ago didn't make it any less real nor fresh than what it was. Luke really wished that it could've been a dream, but he knew better than to deny it. It was just…taking it all in and processing that was causing a wave of emotions for him to bottle up. He was upset, very much so, but the last face Luka made before dying made him question if he really should be sad. At this point his body and mind were too tired to even think of the possibilities.

Abis Omega was no different. Granted he wasn't necessarily close to Brontes. He was a good Bakugan, in his own twisted sense one could say. It could be laughable perhaps. Brontes wasn't as emotional, nor a very serious Bakugan at that, but he was definitely reliable; much more than what he was. They've shared quite a few battles fighting alongside together to understand this little connection they had. He knew deep down Brontes did care, and it showed in his final moments. He felt the same way, drawn by the estrange bonds they shared with their own battlers. They actually made for a great team, believe it or not.

Looking up at the sky now, Luka could see the bright stars did little to help him get past this. He knew he was gone, but at what cost? That's when Luke mulled at his hand. In the one grip was Luka's sword.

"Remember what I said earlier. It's the person holding the sword who embodies the path it follows. My path's been nothing but a false avenger for himself…but you actually have something to avenge. You've earned it."

That sentence did little for Luke to really be certain now. He looked at the sword, but was unable to keep a tight grip. He questioned if he was worthy after what happened.

From behind, a set of steps proceeded towards him.

"Guys, really." Luke grunted. "I'm not in the mood right now."

"Hmph, my apologies. I didn't think that I'd come at a bad time."

Luke and Abis perked at the voice. It didn't sound anything like his comrades. They whipped around, seeing a man whom they were familiar with. "Wait…aren't you one of the guys back on Vestal?"

Gus stopped and put a hand to his chest. "Yes. It's been a while. Master Spectra gives you his regards."

Luke frowned. The earlier shock went away fast due to fatigue. He turned away. "What are you doing here? I thought transport from other planets was blocked off."

Gus sneered. "You'd be surprised. Believe or not, we Vestals take our resources quite literally. Nothing a few servers fixed couldn't do the trick. That's also part of the reason how I got here. We connected the radio waves from this planet's broadcast."

"You mean…" Luke blinked. "Oh right, Julie. Heh, guess she came in handy after all."

"We watched the whole broadcast. Our sincerest condolences for your friend."

Luke bowed his head. He was thankful for his consideration, but it did little for any sign of comfort. If anything it drove it away.

Gus walked closer, continuing with grasp attention and a serious frown. "I can understand your plight right now. I can also see that you're suffering because you take responsibility, is that right?" He paused, earning Luke's silence as confirmation. "Well, as the saying goes, you reap what you sow. If you stay down like this, won't that look bad for your friend? Or perhaps, you're sulking for another reason."

Abis grunted. "Luke…"

Luke chose not to fight it. As much as he would want to shut Gus up and throw Abis at him, that impulse would do more harm than good. He was human after all, he didn't have to stoop to his anger and delusions getting the best of him more than twice.

Gus took his seat next to him. He looked up to the sky and admired the twinkling lights that were stars. There was a small silence.

"You know, you're not the only one with guilt as well. To be honest, I knew Brontes as well." This information earned a look of wonder. "It's true. He was thrown away by a filthy traitor. I gave him power and I made him evolve. Beyond that, he served his purpose and I sent him back to New Vestroia. It's funny how we're all connected, wouldn't you agree?"

Luke furrowed his brow. "Yeah…I guess…what are you going with this?"

Gus frowned. "Had I'd known Brontes had this kind of potential to stand against a menace like that, I would've evolved him myself. But, it seems that he's found a better place and battler. Not to say that it's a waste of potential, but rather…ironic." He thought about his battle against King Zenoheld. "I was driven to avenge someone dear to me as well, and it cost me more than you can imagine. Isn't that right, Vulcan?"

Vulcan popped open in ball form. "Elico and Hexados will not be forgotten."

"Elico and Hexados?" Luke repeated. His eyes widened at the realization.

"I wanted to avenge the betrayal of Master Spectra. To do so, I had to risk everything. Just like your friend did. In doing so, Vulcan and I were nearly killed…but we survived, thanks to the nobility of our fallen friends." Gus smirked. "I'm not saying to go and get revenge for your fallen friend or Brontes. No, far from it. I'm merely telling you you're still here because of them. They've fought for yours and everybody else's sake, right? Consider that an accomplishment."

Luke pondered about Gus' notion. He wasn't wrong. If it wasn't for Luka and Brontes laying down their lives like they did, they could've been elsewhere. And again, they would've had to repeat another cycle of treks and turmoil that would only slow them down in their venture to save the many worlds.

"Perhaps I wasn't successful in defeating Zenoheld, but you still have a chance, even if your comrade isn't around. We somehow managed because Master Spectra's connections. Don't take this lying down. Both of you." He smiled. "Believe me, the path of vengeance leads to no good. But you can't forget why you did it to begin with, otherwise what's your purpose then?"

Abis looked towards the sky. "Your purpose…"

Gus stood up. "You have a lot on your mind. I apologize, just figured that I'd share some helpful advice is all. I should report back to Master Spectra and tell him the signal connection was a success." He turned back towards Luke. "Oh, but before I do, there is one more thing."

Luke looked back in curiosity.

"…your little pal Keegan and the others on Vestal give you their regards." With that note, Gus pressed coordinated into his Bakumeter, His body started disappearing. "See you around."

Luke stood up. "Hold on-!" He reached out, but Gus was already gone. He vanished into thin air, leaving him standing with a fixation. He stopped in his tracks and looked towards the sky once more. He watched it dazzle for just a while longer.

Abis closed his ball form and rolled off to the side. He popped open and stared at the sky with a new angle. He turned back towards Luke.

"Abis…" There was a stiff pause between them. Luke hesitated for a moment, but he cleared his head and took a deep breath. He picked Abis up and placed him on his shoulder.

They looked up at the sky one last time. The stars twinkled brightly overhead, but in their eyes, they could've sworn they saw two stars especially spark. Luke turned towards the grip of the energy sword's hilt in his right hand. He grabbed hold of it tighter than before and straightened his back to look more resolute.

"Looks like it's up to us now, right Abis?"

"Let's give them a fight they've been asking for."

Luke nodded. "Yeah." He turned and walked back towards the nearest hatch.

As the hatch shut, the two glimmers in the sky brightened just a little much before fading with the rest of the stars in the night sky.

The Trailer's silence had prolonged long enough. Shawn leaned up and started for the elevator door. "That's it. It's been long enough."

"Shawn. Hold on." Esther frowned. "Aren't you being a little hasty?"

Shawn turned towards her. "Aren't you worried about Luke, too? Look, I know he needs his space, but enough is enough. I'm gonna go talk to him and see if he-!"

The doors to the elevator opened, revealing Luke and Abis. Immediately everyone turned towards him.

"Well now, Shawn. Ask and you shall receive." Jase chimed.

Luke walked into the deck as everyone stood up. The Bakugan faced Abis in compliance. Shawn stepped off to the side as his best friend walked in. "Luke?" he questioned.

Luke turned towards him and grinned. "Hey Shawn." He looked at the others. "Hey guys, sorry to have made you wait up for me."

Shuji crossed his arms. "Sure took you long enough, slowpoke."

Esther moved closer to him. "Luke, are you sure you're okay?"

Luke gave an assured smile, something that made him look gentle. "…yeah, don't worry about it. I'm fine now. Really. I just needed a little thinking is all…and a pick-me-up." He and Abis looked at each other and shared a short silence.

"Guys, listen. We're laying down our lives to do this. So many have suffered enough, us included…Luka and Brontes, too…they gave us all a second chance to pick up on our feet again. But this time, now we have to pick up where they left off."

"Yes." Esther nodded.

Maggie balled her fists. "It hurts…but it'll hurt more if we do give up now. We need to make them pay for the trouble they've caused us all."

"Guess we're on our own then. No more save and ditches this time around." Shawn noted.

Luke nodded. "Yeah, you're right. Luka's original mission was to stop Riaan and make sure as many people be prepared for the worst. We've made it this far because of him. Now, we have to show everything we've learned and prove we can continue standing."

Jase closed his eyes and straightened his back. "Though the original pillar has fallen, there are plenty of support pillars left. Better not crack under pressure now, any of you."

"Right. Now's not the time to sulk. If I'm going to be worthy of Luka's blessing, I'm gonna have to put up a fight worthy of him."

Shuji smirked. "Heh, now we're talking." He walked closer until he was meters away, staring dead into Luke's eyes. "And if you start sulking on us, I'm gonna have to knock the sense into you before I drag you along. You've dragged me this far, why the hell wouldn't I be obliged to return the gentle pat on the shoulder?"

Luke's shoulders slumped at the rough play to come, but he took it in stride. "Thanks for that. I'll keep to it then." He looked at everyone else. "Alright, guess we're all set then."

The deck's atmosphere changed yet again. The tone had gotten considerably more serious. With the six fully gathered, now was the time to take a new course of action.

"Okay, so what's the plan?" Esther prompted.

"Perhaps we should check in with the Battle Brawlers to see how they're doing." Atchibee advised. "I'm sure Shun's condition is better by now."

"Yeah, that's a good point. We should stop in and see how they're doing." Shawn replied. "All in?"

"I'm down." Verias agreed.

Jase looked at everyone accounted. "Then we should make haste. The more time we waste, the more likely we'll freeze to death on the way there."

It took a little effort, but within a short span of time, and Atmos' gliding, the venture there was warm enough to keep them all from chilling too much. As they walked through the palace, Maggie was still shivering from the cold. "Brr…man, even inside it's still nippy." She muttered.

"Does anyone know if Neathians do heaters around here?" Shawn inquired, putting his hand to his chin.

"I wouldn't imagine." Esther noted. "Neathia doesn't get weather like this. It's always constant nice weather. I doubt they'll be prepared for such conditions otherwise."

"Well that sure sucks." Luke quipped. "I can't imagine a winter without heat through the manor. Cale always makes sure it's running starting fall."

Jase chimed a smile. "Well look on the bright side, if we're ever chilly, I'm sure we know where to stay now."

Luke rolled his eyes. "Haha, really funny."

They walked for a few minutes until they've made it to the sector where the Battle Brawlers were supposed to be. They were here before, so they knew what to expect when they see the doors open up. They all gathered around.

"You think these guys are still up?" Shuji wondered.

"Only one way to find out." Luke walked closer towards the door and cleared his throat. He paused to think of the right words to say. "Hey, guys! Are you there? It's us! We're here to talk!"

The doors slid up in sections, similar to armor plates as before. Once they were all cascaded, that left them to venture into the room where the Battle Brawlers, and Julie, were accounted for. They all were sitting around, seemingly talking. Shun was sitting on a sofa with his arms crossed, his face and body otherwise in bandages.

"Huh? Oh, it's you guys." Dan responded, wide-eyed at their incoming. "What are you guys doing here?"

"We came to check up on you guys, see if anything was up." Shawn raised a brow, seeing the looks of dejection on all their faces. "Damn, you guys alright?"

"We should be asking you that." Gunz responded curtly. "We heard about what happened. We're sorry."

Esther nodded at the condolence. "Thanks."

Jase turned towards Shun, seeing the bandages on the arms and the patch on the cheek. "I understand that you've taken some damage from Riaan. How severe are your wounds?"

"Not enough to slowly me down, thanks for asking." Shun responded, before closing his eyes. "But about your friend…I'm terribly sorry. The blame is all mine." He lowered his head in shame.

Shuji furrowed his brow. "What kind of excuse is that?"

"Shun, no it isn't really." Marucho insisted, but Shun thought otherwise.

"Think about it Marucho. The plan all depended on me to get Riaan out in the open. I was sure it'd be foolproof, but he knew it was coming from the very beginning. I should've thought of a better plan!" He gnashed his teeth together as his fists balled tighter. "And now because we didn't think things through, we lost someone valuable. We should've been more prepared!"

"Shun, quit it! Okay?" Dan barked back. "This is no time to get down!"

"…yes. You are absolutely right."

Everyone turned towards Jase.

"Your actions intended on a simple solution to a complicated mess. Perhaps the bold way does bring results, but less you forget, the less you know your opponent, the more they have." He used a finger to push his glasses up once more. "What's done is done. You can't change the past. So, if you do perceive fault to this, then I ask you, how do you intend to take responsibility for it?"

Shun stared at Jase, meeting his eyes. While he was very clever at reading and perceiving people, Shun found Jase's gaze all too dull to even look through. His straight face didn't give any clues or hints towards displeasure or seriousness. This made it hard for him to respond.

Dan looked down at his hands and knees. "We don't know, but we'll think of something. I promise you that."

Roxtor spoke gibberish on the table between the Battle Brawlers, siding left and right. Radizen turned away in disgust. "Hmph! Please Roxtor, like you can do any better against those guys. So they had us off guard. You would've been in the same situation we would have."

"The way they battled…" Drago trailed off, recalling that situation they were in. "They had us completely cornered. They've been stopping us in our tracks without question."

"These guys don't know mercy, that's for sure." Dan grunted. This didn't help their case. Mercy. Something they thought everyone would know. "All those Neathians that gave their lives…and those Gundalians…and the Bakugan…Earth…these guys are making me so mad that I just wanna…!"

"Hey pal, you heard what Jase said, right?" Shuji noted. "What happened, happened."

"Shuji?"

"Yeah, I'm angry too, and sometimes you can't help but just vent…" He furrowed his brow. "But keep talking and not walking like that, and you'll see why they don't show mercy to begin with."

Gunz was leaning against the wall when he closed his eyes. "Heh, I like the way this guy things." He scoffed. "If we're gonna get back at them for what they did, we've gotta lay out everything that we have."

"Ye~s! Finally, now we're getting somewhere!" Julie chimed. "Now, let's get to seeing just what kinds of foes we have, okay?"

"We need to assert ourselves with everything we have to know about Riaan and his Bakugan. We're running out of time." Marucho stated. He started locking into his Bakumeter, beginning to set up coordinates until several holographic images projected from it. The projections showed his battle alongside Dan against Amina and her Nastix. "As it stands, Riaan and Armagedoid are presumably the biggest threat. Beneath him are Hades Pillars, which are still at large. And now that we've seen more of them in action with their Mobile Assault vehicles, we know just how badly it is to take them head-on without a plan."

"There's also the problem with Armagedoid, too." Jaakor noted. "That's no ordinary Bakugan."

"We've barely got a glimpse of it in person, but at that one moment…it just felt like my whole body went under." Shun grimaced at the painful memory. "Jaakor's right about one thing, that's no ordinary Bakugan that Riaan has. Saying it's on a whole other level would be putting it mildly."

"Yes, we're fully aware." Esther noted calmly. "We've gone up against him before." She turned towards Luke. "Luke, were you and Luka able to find a weakness anywhere?"

Luke looked down, furrowing his brow to think. "It wasn't that easy. Master Riaan and Armagedoid were able to bounce back quick. They've got a lot of durability in them, even after Luka and Brontes hammered so many abilities at them."

Jase put a hand to his chin and looked down. "To have an ability set to counter even countermeasures to their own. Riaan's very clever to have considered these possibilities beforehand."

Dan ran his fist into his open palm. "Which means the moment we get an opening, we'll hit'em where it hurts."

"Sounds good to me." Drago agreed.

Abis turned towards Luke to see what his input was able. He could tell he was paying attention, but just from looking at him was a means to know something was stirring. "Luke?"

Luke was silent as he looked down at his feet. He was in battle against Riaan, and even now it still hurt. The cut on his shoulder had bandages, too. But he was deflecting to something more pressing that lied within said reason.

"You see, the truth was that I have already ascertained enough of Neathia's energy from the other day. I've merely stalled this long because here on Neathia, there's a matter that I need everyone to bear witness to."

"What's this about?! Say it! You said we've earned the right, so why didn't you go back to Interacia when you had the chance?!"

"The answer is simple, young Luke." Riaan paused. "I believe that the hints were visible to you earlier, were they not?"

"What?"

"Tell me, what is the one reason why this all started? Everything dates back to one reason, and one reason alone."

Luke furrowed his brow and looked towards the blood-splattered ground. It took him a minute until his eyes widened and he looked up with bewilderment. "…Code Eve."

An idea came to Luke's head. 'Wait a minute. That dream I had…Code Eve had to be the one to tell me something back then. If Riaan hadn't left this planet yet with the Empyrean, he's gotta be weeding out Eve then. But where…?'

Shun continued talking towards Dan about the ideas laid out. "Dan, listen. We need you and Drago now more than ever. You're probably the only ones strong enough to be a match for Armagedoid."

"Don't worry, we're not going anywhere. And neither are they." Dan stood up, with Drago floating at his side. "We'll show that creep what happens when you mess with our friends and the Bakugan."

Julie winked. "That's the Dan we all know! Go get'em!"

"Well, at least we have morality." Verias chimed.

Shawn shrugged, "Yeah, no dust falling on that flat top soon." He raised a brow and pondered. "But there's still his lackeys, plus how to handle Riaan in person. We won't get anywhere near him with them around."

"We'll divert their attention elsewhere for just a small gap. That's all we'll need." Shun insisted. "But for Riaan and Armagedoid, guys…you need to leave him to us this time."

The majority of the group stepped back from this news. Jase raised a brow.

"…what?" Shawn deadpanned.

"This better be one of your stupid ninja tricks pal, because we're not falling for another dupe." Shuji raised a fist, his guard heightened.

"I meant what I said. You guys need to stay out of this one and leave Armagedoid and Riaan to us. It's for the best interest of everyone. It's nothing personal."

Maggie furrowed her brow in disgust. "How is this not personal?! We've been pulling ourselves along just fine! Just because I'm 10-years-old doesn't mean I need a babysitter!"

Esther took a step forward, her glare as cold as ice. "What reason do you have saying it's best for everyone for us to back down? You don't have any proof that we're in the wrong."

"Look, don't get me wrong." Shun paused. "You're all very capable battlers, I see that. But, you just lost one of your friends. I just don't think it's best to fight in the shape you all are right now."

"You call that an excuse? You wouldn't know us personally to judge how we feel."

Marucho stepped in between everyone. "Uh, what Shun is trying to say is, that maybe you guys should think a little before deciding what to do, that's all." He nervously laughed to lighten the mood. He earned cold glares from everyone.

Shuji scoffed as he looked away. "Should've known you guys would think this way. Even I'm not that dumb." He raised his head. "Just come out and say it, alright? You don't trust us, that's what this is about."

Shun looked away. He hesitated for an instant.

"He's right, isn't he?" Luke clarified.

"…you're right." He faced them again, this time with a much colder vibe. "We don't trust you. Your guys' battling methods are very extreme, not to mention risky. We've been doing our best to cope with it, but after what happened, we have to take responsibility now. I told you that your friend's death was ours to blame, didn't I? We can't show a weakness like that again to anyone. Not to mention that your Bakugan have gone over power levels that's harmful to their bodies. It's too dangerous."

There was a short silence in the room. Everyone in Luke's group looked at each other in disbelief. These guys must be off their rockers!

Jelldon's many eyes on his ball form flashed red with rising anger. "That's…it!" He closed and rolled up towards Shun and the other Brawlers Bakugan, so closed that he startled them. "We're tired of you and you constantly looking down on us! You think you're all that because of past experience, well newsflash buddy, we have our own experience as well, and we're gonna do it our way! Ya got that?!"

"W-woah there, take it easy there…" Radizen eased away, but shuddered at Jelldon's threatening growl.

The other Bakugan rolled onto the table and popped open at Jelldon's defense. "Give us a break, would ya?" Verias commented.

"I'm in an agreement." Atmos scoffed. "Your actions have been nothing more than a façade to hide your mistrust in your peers. This isn't a one-sided conversation."

"Guys, just chill out, okay?!" Dan stood over the table, his tone showing regret. "We're sorry. We really are. We wish we could've been there."

"Perhaps that's where the problem lies." Atchibee pointed out. "Listen, Dan, was it? I humbly respect your opinion as a Bakugan Battler, but as a colleague I say perhaps it's time you see through our perspective. This is an actual genocide. Wishing for something alone doesn't give you results."

"Yeah, look at us. We were just ordinary Bakugan one day on New Vestroia. Now we're here." Fly Beetle voiced. "We're not here because we wanted to. It's because we have to."

"You sure talk big for someone so small." Gunz noted. He respected such a feature in people, but his tone hinted annoyance this time around. "Listen pal, Mechtavius Destroyer posed a big enough threat, and we got through just fine."

"Yeah, because his way of thinking and plans were so easy to figure out." Shawn crossed his arms. "What was it again? Eliminate all Bakugan and take over the universe?"

"It's still the point!" Shun stood up, showing deep objection to the claim. "Listen, you guys couldn't beat Armagedoid and Dan and Drago showed up." He glared at Luke. "Then you had to go fight him alone, and now look what happened! If your experience involves taking risks like these, then you're no more than a hazard and a nuisance! It's time to face facts! You're all irresponsible-!"

He was picked up the collar and slammed into the wall. The back of his head throbbed from a sharp pain as he was pinned by Shuji, who had a knuckle sandwich pulled back.

"AH!" Julie yelled. "Guys, wait! Stop!"

"You bastard! You're crossing a line!" Shuji gritted his teeth, his glare hardening on Shun's face. "Don't judge us because you think you can!"

Dan came up to Shuji's back, pulling him back off from Shun. "Hey man, will you just back off?! This is no time for us to fight amongst each other, alright?"

Shuji gnashed his teeth and glared at Dan. "Well we aren't the ones who started this, did we?" He pivoted away, looking away annoyed. "Sorry, got a little provoked there."

Shun adjusted himself and shot them all another glare. "Now you see my point?" He walked up. "We can't answer this call with brute force, you'll only encourage bad spirits. Everyone back home is suffering. We need to show them peace can still exist, and we need to do that fairly, through the use of our Bakugan."

"Tell that to Riaan and that Zion nutjob I had to get touchy with." Shuji backlashed. He walked back towards the others, his face down as Maggie patted his back. Her brown eyes went back towards the Brawlers.

"Looks like we were right all along. You guys were never worth it."

"Please stop, this is all just a big misunderstanding!" Marucho impeded. "Right, guys?"

Jase frowned, his brown eyes as sharp as knives. "I'm curious, exactly what makes you so sure that you're capable where we supposedly fail at?"

"Because we have Dan and Drago now, that's why." Shun said. "Like I said, they're our best bet, and they've taken down much worse creeps in the past. The Brawlers stand together on this one. We have friends who are counting on us as well. We have to answer their calls too you know. The people you've met our friends of ours too. They need us. If we don't…who else capable can?"

Luke lowered his head, looking disappointed. "…so I guess that's it then. Nothing will change your mind?"

Dan frowned. "It's not that I agree with Shun. But, guess we do have to consider you guys as well." He opted a smile. "Tell you what, if things don't work out, we'll come up with something together, sound good?"

Luke turned away, frowning heavily with closed eyes. "Yeah. Sure." He started walking back. "Let's go."

Everyone watched Luke go and shot one more look at the Battle Brawlers. They followed him back to the door, but Jase stopped a foot away with hands behind his back.

"Reality is a cold gesture. You'll soon learn it first-hand one way or another."

With that, he left with the others. The doors came down behind them and closed shut. The air in the room was awkward at best.

Marucho looked down in sadness. "Do you think we were a little too harsh on them?"

"Well it's done now. No going back." Reptak said. "We have to look out for ourselves as much as everyone else. If these guys get hurt and…well, you know…then wouldn't that mean everything was for nothing?"

"I suppose that's a fair point." Drago answered. "Still, I feel sorry for them. I'm sure we'll find an understanding somewhere."

"Yeah Drago…I sure hope so." Dan moped. He squinted his eyes and smacked his cheeks. He stood up proudly. "This is no time to feel down now! What are we doing sitting around? We need to find a way inside, and take Riaan and Armagedoid down and out for good! That way, everything can go back to normal!"

Shun nodded. "You're right Dan, it's time to restore the peace that the Brawlers brought. We worked too hard to have it fall. We stand for the bonds and existence of Bakugan and humans together. We have to prove that has meaning that has to stay."

Gunz balled a fist. "Guess we better step it up then and show them a real battle next time."

"You're right, Gunz." Dan said, raising an energetic fist high. "This next fight, will show everyone there's still a way!"

In the Empyrean, the twinkling night sky dazzled. It was all but quiet in the residence there. Riaan was recuperating in his throne room as to where the other Hades Pillars members were tending to their own material matters at hand. Amina was taking a bubble path, while admiring her flawless looks in the mirror above her head. Lucia was in her own private quarters, centered around a deeply accented room where clear water flowed in circulative fashion. The flow was a soothing essence for her mind to be clear of to help her think. Galilea was at a desk, jotting down battle notes and schematic enhancements to the Mobile Assault vehicles they've used. She was rewatching footage taken on the battles and paid close attention for errors. And Cyrus was in his own quarters, his body concealed in darkness, making it unclear what really lies within the shadows. But if anything stepped too close, they would turn pale from how cold it was.

Away from the others in another chamber modeled like a dungeon, the sounds of metal grinding seared through the walls. Sparks flew as Zion slowly glided his axe along the blade sharpener. He gave it a dead serious look like his life depended on it.

As the buzzing of the metal went through the dungeon-like area, Magnus walked down the stairway to see where the ruckus was coming from. "Hey, Zion, man, you'd still be sharpening man?"

"…" Zion chose to focus on the task of his metal blade getting sharper. He shifted it back and forth moderately.

Magnus rubbed the back of his head. With Shawn having messed up his visors, he was sporting another set, though they were fully black, and slimmer so the eyebrows were visible. He looked left and right and walked closer, but made sure to keep his distance.

"Yo man, it's getting late. You've been doing that since this morning. Not that it matters, but why're you so pent up right now?"

Zion grumbled. He finally eased the pressure against his hilt and turned the axe over. He leaned closer to see how sharp the edge was. He turned away and observed it through matters of different angles to get an even texture.

"Dude, really. You're freaking me, you good or-!"

"GRAH!" In one swift motion, Zion pivoted and threw the axe blade at Magnus. The trained backstreet man went stiff as the blade twirled past him, pinning itself into the wall behind…where many of other weapons were embedded with edges impaling the Empyrean chrome and earth texture.

Magnus was still in shock and slowly turned around. He realized what happened, but even he held his reservation. He looked at the dozens of axes, blades, and spears all piercing the wall and raised a brow. He looked over his shoulder while pointing at the wall.

"…yo…you mad about something?" he deadpanned.

A tense silent fell between them. Zion turned away as his face darkened from an uncouth memory from earlier.

In his mind, the memory of Shuji's punch to the face replayed over and over, like it was on a broken loop. The sting from that punch still lingered, even if his Interacian body had since recovered. The mental scar it left still stung like a spear was wedged in his heart.

He looked down at his empty hand, glaring dully. "It's been a long time since I've been empty-handed."

His usual gravely tone piqued Magnus' interests.

"I swore to myself…that I would never use my bare hands to kill again. It's hideous. It lacks in potential…and yet I let a sully fist hit me this very day." He looked over at the table next to him. He reached over and picked up a rugged dagger that he used a few too many times. He went over and proceeded to using the stone mill again to sharpen it.

"'The blade is the mightiest weapon', the lord spoke. I didn't know better. I found it so easily entertaining to choke the life out of the common folk that got in my way…"

His thoughts dated back to a distant time. A time back when Interacia was still a dark place…with much darker souls on the prowl.

It was in one of Interacia's more inhospitable environments. With the planet still under construction through Riaan's genetics, not everything was stable. Cracks ran through the ground along a ravaged valley that Riaan exited from.

'If the rumors are true, it should lie beyond here.' Riaan thought to himself. He's been venturing for some time along his own realm. Since he wasn't human, he didn't require any substance to keep himself alive. Though he had to admit something to sink his teeth into didn't hurt. 'It's up here, I can feel it.'

He walked closer towards something that looked like a settlement. It wasn't much, but it seemed much like a blue collar village with its own charm. Though with how poorly it was made due to the constant erosion and fissures. He wandered about, taking on any signs of what he may be seeing.

As he walked further into the small town, he noticed that no one was out. It was nighttime via clockwork on Interacia, but Riaan didn't see it as a peculiarly bad thing…at least not at this point.

He looked around, trying to see if anyone was visible. He saw a few figments shift behind closed doors, but that only added onto his suspicions.

'I can feel it. There's a lot of negative energy in this area. The Devil Miasma contaminated the nearby outer lands, and the erosions must've recently closed them up around here. They're quarantining themselves…' He noticed how most of their doors had barricades made of furniture. Even along the windows there were boards. '…no. Rather, it seems they're trying to keep something out.'

"GAAH!"

A cry from the alley got his attention. 'A distress? I'm sensing negative energy.'

He moved towards the alley in a hurry, but he was too late to step in. When he looked into the darkness, he saw a body laying facing the cavernous skies. He came to a stop and looked down at the fallen figure, who appeared to be a man.

'What happened here…?' He frowned morbidly. He kneeled down and moved his fingers over his eyes, closing them in grief. "Rest well, fellow soul." With him close to the face, he could actually see the black and blue bruises along the neck. His eyes were bloodshot, like someone had squeezed the life out of them. "Asphyxiation…? No. Someone else did this…"

He heard a shuffle behind. Instinctively he looked over his shoulder and grabbed his sword in time before something swift jumped out of the shadows. With a swift sweep of the blade, it deterred the attacker.

"I presume that you're the one responsible for this atrocity."

His vocals were directed towards the attacker. Now in more appropriate lighting, it was a man in his late 20's, maybe mid-20's. He had a very dirty exterior with signs of malnutrition. He had rags to conceal his lower half, whereas his upper-half was bare, with signs of little muscle. He had a gruff beard with a shaggy head of hair as well. He was bare-footed with no weapons in hand.

The man growled at Riaan to show his hostility.

Riaan gave him a glare and saw his figure. "I've heard rumors that there was a mass outbreak of deaths recently within the area. I presume you're the one responsible, aren't you?"

The man sneered. "What of it?"

Riaan narrowed his gaze. 'He must've gotten too close to the Devil Miasma. The poor man's running on negative energy.' Riaan held his blade out. "I should warn you, do attack, and your fate will be compromised."

The man scoffed. "Good…it'll be even more fun to kill someone who's actually aware for once!"

He lunged forward with a cackling laughter towards Riaan. The swordsman bunted with the blade and braced himself. The attacker pounced and weaved out of the way of the blade to grabble at his throat. Riaan was caught surprised by his agility before his throat was clutched. His windpipe was cut off and gagged as he was pinned towards the wall. For someone who didn't look well, he was remarkably strong.

'Just force!' Riaan opened an eye and gnashed his teeth. It was hard for him to get free despite the advantage he had.

The man leaned closer, rolling his eyes musingly. "What's the matter? I thought you told me my fate would be compromised." He teasingly chuckled. He clutched a little tighter than before. "You should've stayed away like everybody said! HAHAHAHA!"

STAB!

Something nimble yet light caused an intense pain in the man's gut. He yelped out in agony as he fell backwards while holding onto his gut. His breathing had turned raspy as he looked down at his hand. There was offending liquid on it that caused him to shrivel, though with slight confusion. He looked up, realizing Riaan was above him with a sword.

"Looks like you've underestimated your chances here. Are you that disillusioned that you can't see the reality that's in front of you?"

The man attacked again with balled fists. He threw a punch, but Riaan wasn't a fool. He pivoted and swung past the attacker. As he whipped around to pounce or another chokehold, Riaan used the blunt end to deflect, while making a small cut of pain to draw the attacker away. He clutched his aching wrist in sneering distress.

"Tell me, do you find a purpose to this act you're doing?" Riaan continued. "You seem awfully aimless, as is where you're aiming those hands."

The man snarled and looked at Riaan again. He wasn't going to be taking this going down. Riaan could see the fire in his eyes. This man craved for some kind of scuffle. He watched him lick the blood off his wrist with a lust hinted in the pain.

It wasn't just the negative energy from the environment he was in…it was a passion. An unhealthy, addictive passion that this poor soul found poor use of such a handy skill in place. The little epiphany had him getting an idea. Perhaps a terrible one.

He pulled a dagger out from within his wardrobe, something that took the man by surprise. He lobbed it towards him, embedding into the ground. "What the…?"

"Tell me, do you enjoy killing that much that it brings you pleasure? Is so, then if you're going to kill, at least do so with some measure of dignity mind you."

The man looked back and forth between Riaan and the weapon. He took a step back in heavy contemplation.

"What's wrong? You said you wanted to kill me, did you not? But I hold a weapon." He drew his blade. "It'd only be fair to share solid grounds with an enemy you deem worthy, right?"

The man in question looked at the dagger on the ground. He hesitated for a moment and gradually reached down to pick it up. He gripped it awkwardly.

Riaan scoffed. "You're holding it wrong. If you intend to stab someone…" He twirled his sword and pierced the ground. He his grip fastened with a new hold. "It's best to make the end face downwards."

He adjusted as per instructed. Believe it or not he actually felt a solid grip. He looked up at Riaan and hardened himself to charge for bloodshed.

"Woahwoahwoah, back up for just a moment." Magnus interrupted. He had processed the tale, but he couldn't believe certain parts. "So then…you had hair?"

Zion's glare hardened. He thought better and picked up the dagger he was sharpening earlier. He saw the one side was sleek and turned it over. "But little did I know, that was merely the beginning. Milord proved to be a challenge as I couldn't keep up. Then…that's when I realized what a world the outer reality really is."

"What happened? He whoop your ass?"

Zion snorted. "I learned many things that day, starting with shame…"

A long blade collided with a dagger, sending the latter weapon flying over the rogue man's head. As he fell on his back, his body had a variety of cuts from blows that could've killed him. Yet the dagger that saved him a few times pierced the ground behind.

Riaan held his sword inches away from his body. The defeated looked with shock in his eyes at the merciless fashion he was defeated. All the breath he had before was bleeding out.

Riaan flashed a smirk. "Not bad. You may actually have what it takes after all."

The man leered. "Who…are you…?"

Riaan hummed and withdrew his blade. He believed that he got the point across. "I believe you have learned your lesson well. There's much better things to use than just your hands. You can grasp much more than that."

The man stood on his own two feet, albeit shakily. He knew now that if he took another step to choke him, it'd be futile. By this point he should've fled with the victim's loot or scraps, but Riaan impeded everything, including his ideals.

"I believe that we can make for a compromise here."

The man squinted. "What do you want?" The way Riaan put it didn't seem like the intentions he desired.

Riaan raised his chin. "Perhaps you aren't aware of this, but I am on a mission. A long, perilous mission to ensure the truth gets out."

"What truth?"

"The truth…that the lives that others have lived are but a farce, including your own." He saw the man step back in shock. "I need this world to thrive, but in the current condition everyone is in, there is far too much chaos and corruption. And, unlike you…there are those who won't see reason when they understand." He straightened his posture. "I am an entity that has made this world the way it is. I have much ways to go, and I am still adapting to the ways of mankind, so I can't hold true that change will come swiftly. But, I know that for this change, I cannot act alone. Do you have a name?"

The man hesitated. He eased up some as his attention dragged on with where Riaan was going with this. "…Zion."

"I see. Zion." He humbly bowed his head. "In that case, let me be clear. You have the potential to help clear out those who are against. In the future, I will be expecting those who will not see to what I believe. And I can accept that. However, with different opinions comes different perspectives."

"I…do not understand." He quipped.

Riaan closed his eyes. "Then let me ask you this. If you were given the chance, would you be willing to 'enforce' my part if they do not see reason? Consider it an extended gesture, and a reason for you to hold up your weapon. Sounds more practical than aimless choking, doesn't it?"

Zion slowly turned back towards the dagger embedded into the ground and kneeled to pick it up. He gripped it the imperfect way and studied it for a moment. He adjusted his grip on it and felt a much sturdier hold. It took a long time before either said anything, but at that instant, an understanding was made.

Zion eventually turned towards him. "Tell me more about this 'reality' you speak of."

Riaan smiled. "As you wish."

"Milord taught me everything there is to the art of weapons. He told me of his ideal world and the treat he wants to be for everyone. And even so, he expects blood to be shed by his side as well." Zion held up the dagger he was working on, which was sharpened on all corners. He found himself staring at his hold, which was for stabbing. "The reality that no matter what time period, the never-ending struggle and blood of war is a part of life. I embody that, for I live to kill."

Magnus had taken several steps back to take in everything Zion said. He could relate to that due to living on the streets with his 'homies' and Hendrix. Whoever stranded in their turf, was mugged, and possibly killed. "It's a bitter world man, gotta do what you can to survive. No shame in that."

"…but there is a shame that I now feel." He looked at his free hand. "I went to kill milord mindlessly. I was engrossed in my desires to get a kick out of taking someone's miseries for myself." He looked at his hand with the dagger. "Then he gave me a chance to hold onto something, a value. You see, I know the feeling of not understanding now. There are those in the real world who are prepared. And those who are not are doomed to fall. Milord chose me to be prepared, and for that, I shall kill whoever stands in our way, who isn't prepared to understand their potential to oppose those who do. That is the reality that I have found."

"Milord certainly is something to behold, that is a given."

The voice made Magnus and Zion turn towards the shadows behind Zion. They looked unfazed as the temperature in the room dropped by a margin. Cyrus stepped into the light.

"Aye, yo! When did you get here?" Magnus questioned.

Cyrus moved past Zion's shoulder, looking humble as well. "You have good reason to abide to our world, Zion. Consider yourself fortunate to be amongst us. Our lord doesn't just pick anyone from the shadows of this shifting world we live on." His eyes brightened for a moment. "He's even given me a form to take in this life. But…remember well, no matter what light shines upon us by the lord, he is a black abyss, and we are its dwellers that must keep the light out of it."

Zion dropped his chin. "Don't worry. That message was clear a long time ago."

Cyrus huffed. "Good. Now then, I cam by to warn you that our lord will be having us for one more debrief. Do attend at once."

"Alright, whatever the boss wants." Magnus stood up, activating his Bakumeter's signal. He jammed coordinates in and manually teleported himself.

Cyrus walked back into the shadows, slowly vanishing from view until a dark purple flash revealed nothing.

Zion looked at the dagger in his hand. He gripped it a little tighter before his duty called. He locked onto his Bakumeter and teleported out of the dungeon.

Everyone reentered the Trailer quietly. They all followed Jase up towards the elevator and entered the main deck area again.

"Well that went well." Maggie sighed dejectedly.

Shuji scratched his hair. "Yeah, could've gone better though. Guess that was wishful thinking at this point."

"Yes, it most certainly is." Jase chimed.

Esther turned towards Luke, seeing how he was frowning. "Luke, are you alright?"

The Aquos battler had a moment's pause, processing what happened before facing his peers. "Yeah, don't worry. We'll be just fine." He assured.

Shawn crossed his arms. "You're sure taking this news well, aren't you?"

"Believe me, I really wish it wasn't true. We tired, really…but I guess in the end, we really are on our own on this one."

Jase prodded his glasses to refract light, concealing his eyes. "Not counting Fabia and the others beyond the Battle Brawlers, I can't necessarily disagree. This rather cumbersome."

Maggie plopped into her seat, leaning back and putting her arms behind her head. "Who do those guys think they are?" She pouted impishly. "Thinking they know better than us."

"In another perspective, you can't necessarily blame them." Esther noted. "They weren't wrong about their experience. Many worlds were in chaos and they stopped them all. Makes you question if anyone's resolve is biased at this point."

The Trailer was washed in silence. Everyone was unsure of what to say for a moment until Jase turned the attention onto Luke once more.

"Luke, you seem contemplative. Is there something you'd like to share?"

"Huh?" Snapping out of his funk, Luke looked at everyone. "Oh yeah…I was just thinking is all." He paused, allowing the epiphany to engulf his cranium. "…now that I think about it, I think I have an idea of what might be going on here."

"You do, huh?" Shawn inquired. "What is it?"

"Well, it's-" Before he could finish, they all heard a loud beeping from their Bakumeters. Luke snapped out of it and looked down at his. "Huh? Who's this?"

Everyone tapped their screens at the same time. The screens on each one showed Fabia in her throne room. Even in the background, they could tell due to the fissures and deterioration that the room wouldn't last much longer.

"Fabia?" Shawn answered. "What's going on here?"

Fabia gave them all a sympathetic look. "I heard about what happened between you and the Battle Brawlers. I wanted to check up on you guys and see if you're okay." She adjusted her serious look. "Listen, believe it or not, I'm still a Battle Brawler, and as one of them, I can agree this is a very serious risk that needs to take more cautious steps."

No one said anything, but Fabia's gaze softened as she continued.

"…but, as the Queen of Neathia, you have my deepest gratitude. You've all fought so hard for not just Neathia, but for everyone's sake. You've risk your own lives and even showed there may be a way yet. Perhaps it's selfish of me to say this…but hang in there. Don't give up hope yet."

"Fabia…" Luke muttered. He was actually touched by her words.

Esther bowed her head dutifully. "Thank you, your highness."

Jelldon perked up. "Oh! Well at least this counts as a bright side, right guys?"

"You're not wrong there, Jelldon." Abis chimed.

Atchibee turned on Esther's shoulder towards Luke. "Perhaps this is as good as time as any. Maybe Fabia could be of help?"

"What is it?" the queen raised a brow. "Are you guys talking about plans?"

"Well, actually, Luke was about to say something. Isn't that right?" Verias reminded.

Luke retained a serious face. "Yeah, right." He cleared his throat. "Well, what I was saying was…remember the other day when I told you about that dream me and Abis had with Eve? Well…"

"Wait, you serious?!" Shawn lurched at the realization.

Luke nodded. "Yeah, no doubt. I heard it from Riaan himself."

Jase put a hand to his chin, thinking critically. "I see, so then that must mean that Riaan's actions and your conscious interactions with Eve are synchronized. That might explain why the Empyrean hasn't left despite the timeframe it takes to withdraw energy from a planet."

"So then if that guy has the power, then where does Eve fall in this?" Shuji questioned. He looked towards Fabia. "Hey, you said that orb was where she resided, right?"

Fabia nodded. "Yes, that is a fact. But after Dan and Barodius' battle, the Sacred Orb flew off somewhere. For all we know, it might even be on Neathia anymore."

"Perhaps there's another reason why this is all occurring." Jase came up with an idea. "Luke, when you and Abis had that dream, tell us, was there anything you could recall about it? Feelings, location, voices."

Luke looked down at his shoes and started thinking. "Hang on…" He blinked at trying to recollect an idea. "Well, it felt…really strange. The last place we fell was under the water, and she said something that seemed like a code or prophecy…! Wait a minute."

"What is it?" Abis questioned.

"When I surfaced, it's like the water pulled me down to somewhere. It looked…like an underground lake. And in the middle of it, was a small island with this shining light in the middle. That's gotta be Eve!"

"Wait, when you were pulled under?" Shawn repeated. "But Luke, Abis was able to reach you before you went too far down…"

"…" Fabia was silent at a thought.

"Queen Fabia, what is it?" Atchibee asked. "Is something troubling you as well?"

"I was just thinking. I was recalling something I've heard when I was little. There was an old fable back around ancient Neathian times back to when we first found out about the Sacred Orb."

"What's the legend about?" Esther inquired.

"Well…from what I can remember, there was a legend that generations ago, Neathians found the Sacred Orb at the bottom of a lake. The tales tell that even the water shined, and all Bakugan that were in it could feel the presence of the Sacred Orb."

Shuji folded his arms. "So it looks like we're getting somewhere after all. What happened?"

"The Neathians realized this power and we brought the Sacred Orb up from beneath the surface. Beyond that, I don't know much else. Any records about this place was lost a long time ago that I passed it off as a tall tale. But if what you guys are saying about this vision is true, then, it must mean one thing…that the basin could potentially exist."

Maggie raised a brow. "Okay, I think I get that. But could Eve really be underground?"

"Odds are unlikely." Jase deduced. "The orb was transferred, but there's still a possible energy reserve within the basin. Perhaps that's what Riaan is after."

"He could call Eve or use her signature to trace her you think?" Fly Beetle wondered.

"Or, in a dire case…he could force her here." He concluded.

Luke gasped. "But, if that's true, then…" He looked down, balling his fists. "…we don't have a lot of time. Riaan might have found it already if his powers have already tainted the rest of the planet. He could smoke out an entrance by following that trail."

"This so-called reservoir must be hundreds of years old. If records were illegible or misplaced, then maybe we won't find a map." Esther deduced.

"Perhaps not." Jase said. "The planet's been spontaneously shaking. The vibrations and erosion must've weakened the surface enough for it being easier to reach."

"Then perhaps we should divert ourselves to finding this source as well." Atmos said. "We just need to figure out where it might be located beneath Neathian earth."

"I can think of a good guess." Shawn grunted.

Luke perked up. "…under the Empyrean."

Everyone showed some shock…aside from Jase's straight face. The realization sunk into them until it made a reasonable sense.

"Well that's a start we can work with." Shuji morosely started. "Besides, last I checked, the Empyrean is like a homing map that responds to anything inside it, right?"

"That's right." Esther nodded. "At the very least, the information we need should be in there. We find our way to the bottom, and perhaps that'll take us to the basin where Eve's resonance might be."

Fabia smiled. "Yeah, that sounds like a plan. I'll be sure to look into anything else while I can."

"Fabia, hold on." Luke interrupted. "You're…going to tell the others about this, aren't you?"

Fabia frowned. "Is that a problem?"

Luke looked at the others, seeing their own pauses to rethink of what to say. He looked at Esther, who gave him a sincere look, like he knew what had to do, which was the right thing. He looked back down. "Don't worry about it, it's nothing. Just don't tell them where you got the idea from, okay? It's better this way."

"Sure thing, Luke. I'll have to speak with them about it. Be well."

With that, the communications went off again. Everyone in the room fell silent as the atmosphere went from the earlier dejection to a resolution.

"Looks like we know what we're doing." Shawn looked ready already, despite how worn he was.

"We've got ourselves some Interacian hunting starting tomorrow." Maggie said.

"Oh yeah." Jelldon said coolly, yet aggressively.

"But there's still one obstacle to advert to first." Atmos warned. "Odds are that Riaan will not allow access so easily, especially amongst his vanguard."

"We're gonna have to hit Hades Pillars hard if we come across them again of that's the case." Verias insisted. "After what we've done, they're probably not going to hold back."

"I don't doubt that." Shuji noted, before getting towards the elevator. "Guess we better get ready then if we're going through this, right? Knowing those guys, maybe they've already seen this coming."

"Yes. The sooner we rest, the sooner we'll have energy to act." Jase soldiered on behind.

"Alright Jelldon, we better start getting ready, too." Maggie smiled.

Jelldon nodded. "Sure, thing! Oh, but uh…can I, uh, you know…one more dip in the jelly first? Teehee…"

Abis, Verias, and Atchibee gave Jelldon an awkward silence. They weren't particularly amused by this.

"Okay…" Shwn digressed from the awjward note and turned towards Luke. "Luke."

"I know. We better get ready, too." He turned towards the others. "You girls should, too, okay?"

"We will, we'll be right behind you Luke. All the way." Esther prompted.

"Thanks…I'm glad." He stopped to take in the serenity of the situation, another thought coming to mind. 'Luka, I know what you did wasn't in vain. We'll show everyone that your legacy will live on. For now…just watch us.' He walked with the others into the elevator door, which shut and carried them down to their rooms for the late night.

In the Empyrean, Riaan stood in the center amongst his peers. "So then, does everyone understand what is to happen?"

Lucia bowed respectively. "Yes, Lord Riaan. We'll do everything in our power as you deem fit."

Riaan smiled. "I expect such an answer from you, Lucia. Thank you." He turned towards the others. "The direct line towards our destination has been confirmed. The erosions and the battle energy output we've produce has enabled up to get the Empyrean to find Eve's energy. The Battle Brawlers will most likely time it well. Do you understand what must be done?"

Zion raised his chin. "With pleasure, milord."

"This should be most intriguing. I'm anticipating a good spectacle indeed."

"Yes, quite so, Cyrus." Riaan noted, looking up at the ceiling. On it was a diagram of a direct line leading from the Empyrean, towards a large basin-like area beneath. "This revelation is one…to die for."

Inside the Neathian premise, the battle Brawlers were inside their room being laid out the information by Fabia. She had just finished, and now they were taking it all in.

Dan stood up, straightening his back. "Well guys, guess we know what we have to do, right? If what Fabia said is true, then the Sacred Orb's energy is right beneath us. All we have to do is a little digging."

"But how are we going to get to it?" Drago questioned.

"Guess we'll have no choice this time." Shun evaluated, his eyes opening up. "We'll have to break into the Empyrean and go down ourselves."

Jaakor floated up to his side. "But even so, we'll need to find a way to get through undetected. They can still sense us, even without close-range. On top of that, we're not familiar with the Empyrean schematics for this one."

"We'll have to just storm it then. It's the only way!" Gunz opted.

"I'm with Gunz, we'll need to give them a full-on attack like we always have. No holding back this time." Reptak said.

Marucho nodded. "Maybe we didn't know any better before…" He stood up. "But now we can get ground on them since we know more of how they battle. Let's do what we can so that we can take on Hades Pillars and Riaan once and for all."

"Alright, we're counting on you, Marucho." Dan straightened his back, facing everyone, even the smiling Julie. "Guys, listen. We're in it for the long haul, you got that? No matter what, peace is possible. Everyone who's been fighting back home is all counting on us to bring everything back to normal. There's always a way to bring an end to this senseless fighting…" He raised his fist. "And we can prove it, just you watch!" He faced the ceiling. "Riaan, if you can hear me, we're coming for you! Your days are numbered, ya hear?!"

The Trailer was far out of earshot as everyone inside had started to go to bed. The battles they've all had earlier made them exhausted, so now they had to rest up and ready for the plan tomorrow.

Shawn walked over towards his bed without a shirt and tucked himself in. "Goodnight, guys." He turned towards the wall to turn off the lights to the room. He laid on his back and out his hands behind his head to act as a pillow, despite one already beneath him.

"Yeah, same here Shawn." Luke walked towards his bed with the black t-shirt on.

As he got closer, he stopped hallway before he turned towards something amiss. He stared not at his bed, but the in-wall bed that Luka had used. It was still unfolded, with the sheets and bedding having been fixed. It took a while for it to come down on him, but Luke gave the bed one final smile before he got his hands on it, and silently began lifting it back up.

With a click, the now empty bed was fixed into the wall once more. Seeing it without an occupant hurt, but he needed to remember to be strong. It's what Luka would have done.

"Abis." He whispered.

"Yeah, Luke?"

"We're gonna do it. We're gonna pull through this together."

"I'm with you Luke, to the netherworld and back…let's not stop now."

They went to their bed and Luke went under the sheets. Once tucked in, all the fatigued piled on ten-fold and caused their senses to dull until their eyes shut soundly.

The Trailer itself was resting, for what may seem to be their gravest danger to unfold.

Here you go guys! A new chapter for all of you, and this one is actually short! Managed under 14K, but sadly, no battle this chapter. But that's okay, because I have 3 huge battles lined up coming up soon, so prepared yourselves, for this was the calm before the most powerful storm to wash over our remaining protagonists.

Now I now many of you might be calling out Shun's debate on Luke's group with how they do things violently, but keep in mind let's look back at everything that's happened. From what we've known, the Brawlers had to do the fighting, so the experience they had alone was a factor. Also, let's keep in mind that even in Gundalian Invaders onwards (and I'm counting that season especially) that the Bakugan were used for war, and so did the Brawlers. As opposed to how they fought then and in Mechtanium Surge, Luke's group can be seen as fairly more violent, because they and their Bakugan attacked other soldiers. The Brawlers would usually go for the Bakugan, but Luke and the others take in the source and have to snuff it out. Not to mention that in Arc 2, everyone was so cheesy and slap-happy with Bakugan battling that they didn't use other methods, so I call that a degradation in terms of the Brawler's productive ways. They rely on their ethics and battle honorably and sportsmanship. But Luke's group, again, is a polar opposite, because they fight too seriously, don't take chances, and push limitations that could kill them and their Bakugan. As opposed to the Brawlers, this isn't good advertisement how Bakugan Battling should be taken. Bottom line: Brawlers are in it for the love and honor of the sport, where Luke and the others do it to save and survive.

Alright, now if you excuse me, I have to get to planning the final 3 chapters of the Neathia Arc. I promise not to disappoint this time around. As always, your insight and reviews are appreciated! Hope you guys continue liking the story!