Mystic Guardians

[Jjs Goodman]

76. Night of Fear

Ramos walks around Beast’s dimension, frustrated.

“I’m...lost. Again. Wonderful, all I wanted to do was explore to see if this miserable place had anything else to offer, and now I have no clue where I am...” Ramos sighed to himself, looking out from the rock platform into the void beyond.

“Hello? Beast? That weird guy?” Ramos called out.

Suddenly, Tom magically appears beside him, startling Ramos.

“Weird guy here.” Tom replied.

“What the!? How did you find me!?” Ramos asked, looking at Tom oddly. 

“I dunno, lucky guess, or I just never let you out of my sights.” Tom replied.

“Weirdo. Unless you have a map of this place, go away!” Ramos replied, as he angrily walks off, but Tom follows.

“Come on, don’t be shy. I’m not a total weirdo. I’ve been looking for a new friend in this dreary and depressing place.” Tom offered, confusing Ramos.

“Friends with you? I don’t even know who you are! How do I know you’re real? You must just be my hallucinations acting up again...” Ramos replied, as he kept walking.

“Well for starters, I can assure you I’m the real deal. You can call me Tom.” Tom replied, but Ramos keeps ignoring him.

Suddenly, Ramos sees an ominous cave on another platform close by, curious by it.

“A cave! Finally something of note! I must see what’s inside!” Ramos said, running.

“Ooh, ooh, I’ll join!” Tom replied, following him. 

Ramos jumps off the platform, landing on the other one, as Tom lands with him. Ramos looks at him annoyed. He runs into the small cave. He sees several purple candles lighting up the area, a purple bed, and an ominous purple book on the rocky desk, which has a skull on the cover.

“Ooh, a creepy book! Mine!” Ramos said, opening it, looking through the pages, but doesn’t understand any of them. “What the heck does this stuff say? I don’t speak Italian!”

“Those appear to be spells, dark magic spells to be precise.” Tom noted, skimming through the pages.

“Indeed.” Beast replied, startling Ramos, who closes the book.

“Wah-how did you find us!?” Ramos asked confused, turning around to see Beast standing at the cave entrance.

“I didn’t, this is my own personal home. Where do you think I rest?” Beast inquired.

“I dunno, I just assumed you slept on the cold, rocky ground like I do every night...or whatever night is in this place. Anyways, cool and creepy spell book you got here. What kind of spells are these?” Ramos asked.

“It’s for dark magical spells. I created it during my lonesome time here. An old ally from long ago taught me these spells, so I rewrote them from memory.” Beast explained.

“Let’s try one out, we can use them on the guardians!” Ramos suggested.

“Or the two of us could bond.” Tom suggested, but Ramos shoves him out of the way. Beast smiles.

“Of course we can use them. I have just the perfect item to use the dark magic with...” Beast said, taking out an amulet with a sinister purple gem from his suit pocket.

“Fancy bling you got there, but how does it help us?” Ramos asked.

“This amulet projects the worst fears of whoever you envision, and weakens their morale, no matter where they are. I’ve used this once before on them...” Beast explained ominously, staring into the gem. 

“Use it on that weirdo, he creeps me out!” Ramos demanded, pointing to Tom.

“I have no fears, so that amulet won’t work on me.” Tom replied.

“Ramos.” Beast spoke to the gem.

“Yeah?” Ramos asked, when the gem glows. “Oh, you’re using me for a demonstration, wonderful. Have no fear, I have nothing to fear either!”

Beast shines the amulet stone, letting out a purple light. A purple specter appears, with two glowing red eyes. 

“That’s my worst fear? Ha, I have nothing to fear then!” Ramos bragged, laughing at the specter.

Ramos keeps looking at it. The specter glows, transforming into Brak, Edward and Elizabeth. Brak is wearing the king crown.

“Brak, you are now King of Posidonia. You will reign far better than your fool of a useless brother!” Edward decreed.

“My first decree shall be to arrest him. He will go in the dungeon for all eternity to rot. He will no longer be part of the Lannister family.” Brak demanded, as he laughs with Edward and Elizabeth. Ramos is terrified.

“NOO! You monsters! Get away!!!” Ramos yelled, as he runs out of the cavern in panic, with the specter following him.

“Jeez, what’s his fear?” Tom questioned.

“Get out of my head!” Ramos panicked, running around.

The specter turns into Skipper.

“Skipper buddy, thank goodness you’re here! Get me out of this place, I’m sorry for ditching you!” Ramos apologized to him.

“I do not serve you anymore. Brak is my king.” Skipper replied, pouring a cup of tea, and handing it to the illusion of Brak.

“You monster! That is my tea!” Ramos said angrily.

As he gets up, he bumps into Zurtrax’s robotic armor, shocked to see him.

“Hey, I thought you died. Help me take down Brak!” Ramos said to him.

“I serve King Brak.” Zurtrax replied, pointing his laser gun.

Ramos backs up, but bumps into Doyle and Van Gordon behind him. They hold out their own laser guns.

“No, obey me...oh wait, I fired you two.” Ramos said, shrugging.

Broodwing, Vexacus and Morgana appear by Brak's side, laughing at him.

“No, not you too Broodwing! I mean, I expected Morgana and that shark to betray me, but not you! I thought we were close!” Ramos cried, when Motordrone grabs his arm.

“Oh, it’s you... Who were you again?” Ramos pondered, looking at Motordrone.

It tries to attack, but Ramos runs off across the rocky platform. 

“Make them all go away! They’ve turned against me!” Ramos yelled.

The specter vanishes, along with everyone else. Beast and Tom approach, seeing him freak out, as Beast smiles.

“The experiment was a success. That’s enough.” Beast said to Ramos, who was closing his ears and eyes. He opens up, seeing everyone around is gone.

“Wait, that was all that amulet’s doing? I would be offended, but I have to say, if it can break me, it can break those fools too!” Ramos replied happily, forgetting about what just transpired.

“You sure had a bit of a breakdown there. We saw the tail end of it, you were a big baby.” Tom said.

“There was no breakdown, I was just acting! Say, when are you ever going to use the queen’s crown against them again?” Ramos asked to Beast.

“Not necessary right now. For the time being, how about you scare them with this amulet?” Beast offered, handing it to Ramos, who looks at the shiny purple gem in awe.

“Ooh...yes! I’ve missed having a magic stone to play with! This’ll be fun!” Ramos replied, laughing diabolically, while Tom walks away, as Beast looks at him, smirking.

The heroes are training in the Hidden Kingdom at nighttime. The girls fly around, shooting their elemental attacks at the sandy ground and several barren rock structures. Jake clashes his sword against Trent’s. Cameron duels against Zero, while Nick duels Flinn. They finish, as the girls fly down, and everyone powers down.

“Aye, that twas a fun session. I’ve truly got the feel for these battling styles.” Flinn said.

Jake looks up at the night sky.

“Even though we’re in a kingdom nobody else can see, it’s cool we can still see the sky from here.” Jake said, looking up at it.

“This kingdom truly is special.” Madison replied.

“It’d be a shame if we lost this place, I like having a kingdom based around my element, even if it’s still a bit too old.” Cynthia said.

“I still wonder how plants grow here when it’s separated from the rest of Karmania...” Audrey said curiously, looking at patches of flora growing around in parts of the sand.

“Ranen said there’s a magical presence lurking here, but I have no clue what it could be.” Zero said.

“This kingdom must still have secrets we have yet to discover, hiding right under our noses. After all, its name is the HIDDEN Kingdom. For all we know, maybe there’s some big magical rock dragon hiding here...” Nick theorized, looking around, as Jake and Cameron have awkward looks.

“...Probably not, trust me.” Jake replied awkwardly.

“If anyone or anything else was hiding here, I doubt they’d want to be bothered. We can’t lose this base, as there’s no other good hiding places close enough to Central Karmania.” Cameron explained.

“This place was close to being revealed when that robot found it, but thankfully Zero and I were able to stop it.” Trent reminded.

“Yeah, let’s hope that doesn’t happen again.” Tori replied, as they head to the main area.

They walk along a path taking them behind many ruins. The heroes notice something being hidden under several large white sheets. Ranen and multiple soldiers are working on whatever is under it, as many construction tools and supplies are around the area.

“What’s under there?” Cynthia asked, seeing the site.

“We’ve been working on a blimp in secret.” Ranen revealed.

“Whoops, sorry if we saw this too soon.” Madison replied.

“No, it’s fine. It was about time for you all to know about it anyways. In fact, we could use your help building it.” Ranen replied.

“I can help improve its engines, and even install defense weaponry around the perimeter.” Zero offered.

“I could give it a nice paint-job if you need one.” Audrey offered.

“While this sounds cool, why exactly do you need a blimp?” Jake asked.

“It’ll be helpful for the army to traverse across Karmania safely in case we need to help other kingdoms. Not to mention we’ve needed more support for aerial mobility. We’ve been developing several fighter planes to accompany it using leftover parts of destroyed Battlestar ships and other resources. We had a few planes in the past, but unfortunately lost them due to the Federation and Battlestar ships. Now that we have the proper resources and downtime, I figured it was time to start rebuilding our aerial fleet.” Ranen explained.

“Yeah, this will be good in case they use those ships again to attack us.” Trent said.

“All of the Battlestar ships were destroyed, but it’s true some Federation ships are probably still out there. This is a wise move in case the Neo Federation sends some to attack.” Cameron explained.

“I’ve always wondered, how did they even build those high tech ships in this magical world?” Cynthia asked.

“They brought over their advanced materials through the Ancient Seal, and proceeded to build them here.” Zero explained.

“There is one problem though...we can’t think of a good name for this blimp.” one of the workers said, as the heroes began to ponder.

“I’ve got a name for it. How about...The Guardian?” Madison suggested.

“Short, sweet, fitting, and to the point. I like it.” Jake replied, as the rest nod in approval.

“Sounds good to me, lass.” Flinn replied.

“It’s a nice symbol for us.” Audrey added.

“I was going to suggest something really weird and metaphorical, but then realized nothing I had made sense, so yeah, go for it. Heh, would be ironic when we the guardians ride in The Guardian when it’s done. What a fitting metaphor, better than any of mine would’ve been.” Nick replied, pondering.

“After you finish the planes, then we can make boats for the oceans.” Trent suggested.

“Let’s take it one step at a time, but we've considered those.” Ranen replied.

“Hey, why don’t all of us help you out in making the blimp and planes? That can help them be finished even faster.” Madison offered.

“That would be appreciated.” Ranen replied.

“Eh, not how I wanted to spend a Friday night, but if it’s for a good cause, sure.” Tori replied, shrugging.

“I’ll start by installing weaponry on the planes, then I’ll do the blimp when it has sufficient progress.” Zero replied.

“This way.” a soldier said, as Zero follows him toward the in-progress planes.

He takes him further into the kingdom, as he sees multiple wooden, mechanical and stone planes being built. Zero starts helping the soldiers put them together. The rest of the heroes split up, as some help with the blimp, while the rest look for supplies. A purple glow is seen inside the building holding the prisoner beasts. The specter appears, shining its red eyes. It floats through the prison building, as many of the ancient criminal beasts see the specter, and growl at it. The specter floats outside. Ramos sees this through the purple gem in Beast’s dimension, sitting back on his stone chair.

“Yes, I’m in! I don’t recognize this place...oh well. Must be their new base. Who shall I scare first...” Ramos pondered, as the specter looks at the heroes and soldiers walking around.

Cynthia walks by, as Ramos sees this.

“Ah, the Earth guardian. I always found her rude and obnoxious! Yes, she’ll be my first target...” Ramos said, laughing, as the specter floats around.

It goes inside a stone building, where some soldiers are relaxing. It floats out to the back, seeing Cynthia getting closer, as she walks through the sand. The specter floats in front of Cynthia, startling her.

“What is that!? Am I seeing things?” Cynthia asked, looking at it closer.

The specter then transforms into Elana, but her eyes and crown are purple.

“...Elana? Is this some prank?” Cynthia asked, confused.

“Elana” laughs, and shoots a dark blast from her hand at Cynthia, and she barely avoids it.

“What are you doing!? Is that really you? Did Beast possess you?” Cynthia asked, concerned.

“Elana” laughs, and fires another dark blast. 

“AAAHHH!!!!” Cynthia screamed, as she runs, avoiding the specter. Everyone across the base hears the scream.

“Was that Cynthia?” Madison asked, confused.

“It sure sounded like her. She’s probably trying to find some excuse to get out of work.” Tori replied.

Cynthia keeps running, as she runs into Audrey, Nick, Flinn and two soldiers who are carrying crates.

“Was that you screaming?” Audrey asked.

“Yes, Elana went evil...or something! I’m not entirely sure what I saw, but she attacked me!” Cynthia rambled to them, confusing the five.

“I never saw Queen Elana enter here...” a soldier replied, confused.

“I don’t know if my eyes were playing tricks on me or what, but that was a bit too long to be a trick. I first saw this weird ghost, and then suddenly Elana. Her eyes and crown were purple, and she fired dark blasts from her hands. It’s like Beast possessed her.” Cynthia explained.

“I don’t see her anywhere. Maybe you saw some illusion.” Audrey said, looking around.

“Well whatever happened, there’s something fishy going on around here...and not us.” Cynthia said.

“Wait, you saw a ghost before seeing her? What if that ghost was impersonating Elana?” Nick theorized.

“That would make a lot of sense, but why and how?” Cynthia asked.

“Sounds like we might have an uninvited guest, whoever this was...” Flinn said, concerned.

“I’ll look around, take my crate.” a soldier said, handing Flinn his crate, and he walks off to patrol for anything suspicious.

The specter looks around for its next target. Ramos sees for it through the purple gem.

“Excellent, I sent that rude, spoiled brat running! Who to target next...” Ramos pondered, looking at the gem.

Jake and Cameron walk by, holding supplies, which the specter sees from behind a pillar. 

“I wonder what Cynthia was screaming about...” Jake wondered.

“Who knows with her. I hope she’s okay if she isn’t messing around.” Cameron replied.

The specter floats behind the two, shining its eyes. It transforms into Jake, whose eyes are glowing purple. He presses his own knight stone, transforming into a dark red knight. He charges at the two from behind. Cameron senses this, and quickly drops his supplies. He powers up, turns around, and strikes his sword, startling Jake.

“Who is that!?” Jake asked, confused, as he tries to press his own knight stone, but notices the bracelet is not on his arm anymore. “What the...my stone is gone!”

“How!?” Cameron asked, as he clashes his sword against the evil Jake’s. 

“I don’t know, but this knight's armor kind of looks like mine...” Jake said, as he fights back.

"Something else about them is familiar..." Cameron said concerned, still fighting.

The knight swings their sword at Jake. A red glow comes out from where his stone would be on his arm, forming the shield. Jake runs around, avoiding the evil knight, as Cameron clashes his sword against his again.

“That was weird...the shield was formed as if my stone is still there, but I’m not seeing it...” Jake said, looking at his arm.

“That means it’s not gone, but there’s dark magic at work preventing you from transforming. Fight with the rest of your skills.” Cameron said, as the evil knight sends a dark blast from their hand, but Cameron’s knight stone reflects it, sending it at a pillar.

Jake runs around and punches the evil knight, as they try to strike him again, but his shield saves him. Trent walks by, seeing Cameron and Jake fighting nothing. He walks up to them, confused on what’s going on.

“Uh, hey guys...are you training or something?” Trent asked, puzzled.

“What? No, dude, there’s an evil knight, and I can’t transform!” Jake explained, nervous.

“Um, I’m going to be totally honest with you guys, I don’t see any evil knight, and Jake, your knight stone is perfectly fine.” Trent said, seeing his bracelet.

Cameron and Jake are confused. The evil knight tries to smite Cameron, but he quickly powers up his sword, and strikes it right through the evil knight. 

“For someone I blinded, he fights better than I anticipated...” Ramos observed.

The specter transforms back into its normal form, as Trent now sees it, startling him. It quickly floats away, leaving a trail of darkness. Jake looks at his arm, seeing the knight stone is back.

“Okay, what just happened?” Jake asked.

“There’s someone in our base who shouldn’t be here, but it appears they’re making us see things others cannot. Maybe that’s what Cynthia screamed about earlier.” Cameron theorized.

“I saw a ghost right after Cameron attacked the “evil knight”. I think we’re being haunted...” Trent said nervously, as they rush off to tell the others.

The three regroup with everyone, telling them what happened.

“I knew I wasn’t crazy!” Cynthia said.

“Based on what you’ve witnessed, it appears an unidentified specter is making you see your worst fears.” Zero explained.

“Our base is being haunted? I don’t particularly want Halloween in June, even though that would be cool and all now that I think about it...” Nick pondered.

“So...my worst fear is Elana becoming evil? Makes sense, I guess.” Cynthia replied.

“I guess my worst fear is not having my knight powers, even though I never knew that would be it...” Jake replied.

“My worst fear is a dark knight? But that doesn’t make any sense...” Cameron pondered.

“I don’t even know what my worst fear would be, if I have one, so good luck to that ghost.” Tori replied.

“Regardless of whatever is truly going on here, we must catch this ghost now that it knows our base location.” Ranen said, as more soldiers look around for it.

“I’ll transform us just so we’re all prepared.” Madison said to the girls, as she shines the heart, transforming the four. All six knights power up to be safe, as they patrol around.

“Having fun?” Beast asked Ramos, approaching him

“Yes, but I want to take it a step further! Is there a way to scare all of them at once? I don’t feel like hunting each and every one of them down!” Ramos complained.

“Of course, let me see.” Beast said, as Ramos hands it to him.

“Also, is there a way to change how the ghost looks? I’m not a big fan of it, I want something even more powerful!” Ramos suggested.

“Yes, I’ll do that too. There’s a certain old ghost these heroes haven’t seen in a long time...” Beast smirked, as he makes the amulet glow with his hand.

The specter transforms into the same Drakkus ghost the heroes fought at Mt. Draglor. Its ghostly black and red armor shines in the dark light. It emits out a sinister aura across the kingdom.

“Ooh, awesome! It looks just like my old armor!” Ramos said, impressed. 

“Now they will all see their worst fears without the specter’s presence. Let’s sit back and enjoy the rest of the show.” Beast replied.

Two soldiers patrol around the Hidden Kingdom. The Drakkus specter floats out of the ground, startling the soldiers. Before they can attack, Drakkus immediately pulls out his sword, and swings it. A dark red blast is sent at the soldiers, knocking them away.

Audrey, Tori, Zero and Nick wander around through the sandy plains. Suddenly, the dark red fog appears around the four, separating them from each other.

“I don’t think this is good...” Nick said.

“Hello?” Zero called out, lost in the fog.

Audrey clears part of the fog, but sees a younger Mai in her guardian form appear, confusing her.

“Grandma?” Audrey asked.

“Mai” looks up, showing purple eyes, and smiling evilly. She sends a dark wind blast at Audrey, knocking her away.

“Grandma becoming evil again...yeah, I’m not surprised that’s my worst fear. But this is just a ghost...” Audrey said, sending a gust blast back at “Mai”.

Tori looks through the fog, and sees her elemental form of pure water.

“My greatest fear is...myself? Not what I expected.” Tori replied, shooting a water blast at the elemental form, but it counters with a powerful whirlpool blast, as water rains down everywhere.

Zero walks through the fog, and uses his visor to see. Out of the fog, Scrappertin and three shady dressed scientists appear, smiling evilly.

“My greatest fear...is my origins, at least that’s how I’m interpreting this.” Zero said, as some of Scrappertin’s gear robots jump out at Zero, but he slices them apart.

Nick walks through his section, and a giant doughnut monster appears. 

“That’s my fear? Huh, kind of tame compared to what I expected-” Nick was saying.

The doughnut monster then falls on him, as Nick is absorbed inside of the jelly.

“HEELLPP!!!” Nick yelled, trying to get out.

Madison, Cynthia, Flinn and Trent are patrolling around another part of the kingdom. The fog spreads to them, separating the four.

“Guys? Hello?” Madison called out, flying through the fog.

From the fog, another Madison appears, but with Valina’s face. She smiles, and sends an electricity blast right at Madison, who counters with her own.

“My fear is...becoming Valina? That makes sense.” Madison replied, sending another lightning blast back.

Cynthia flies around, trying to find the others. Suddenly, several dark blasts are sent at her from the evil Elana, who comes flying out of the fog, and lands on the ground. Trent walks across the sand, when a zombie hand grabs his leg from the ground. He panics, but tries to keep his cool. He shakes the hand off, as the rest of the zombie pops out of the ground. Suddenly, more zombies burst out of the ground, surrounding Trent. He powers his knight stone, burning through one’s stomach, and sends laser arrows at the rest. Flinn walks inside of an ancient building, looking for the rest.

“Dead end. Where is everybody?” Flinn asked.

Suddenly, the entrance to the building closes. The walls begin to close in on Flinn.

“My fear be claustrophobia? Well I’m not letting you win!” Flinn said, sending golden slashes at the walls.

Jake and Cameron wander through the kingdom, looking for Grador.

“Maybe Grador can help us.” Cameron suggested.

“He’s pretty much our only option at this point.” Jake replied.

Upon hearing the name “Grador”, Beast smiles next to Ramos.

“He lives. That’s all I needed to hear. Have fun with the rest, I don’t care what you do next.” Beast replied, as he walks away.

“Whatever you say, I’m going to jump these fools!” Ramos said.

Suddenly, the Drakkus ghost floats out of the ground, startling Jake and Cameron.

“...Drakkus? But I thought he was gone, or Ramos, or an illusion...yeah, we were never really sure.” Jake said confused.

“Unless this Drakkus is the same one that attacked us at Mt. Draglor!” Cameron said, as the ghost Drakkus swings its sword at the two, who clash theirs against his.

“Yes, get them Drakkus!” Ramos cheered on from the gem, when Tom approaches him.

“Hi there, are you sure you don’t want to bond with me?” Tom asked.

“No, go away! I’m winning!” Ramos replied, losing focus on the gem.

The Drakkus ghost fades away, surprising Jake and Cameron.

“He gave up already?” Jake asked, confused.

“Thanks a lot, you made me lose the duel!” Ramos said angrily to Tom.

“Ah, but are you fighting a battle you cannot win to begin with?” Tom inquired.

“What are you trying to say!?” Ramos snapped back.

“I’m just saying, Beast is using you and all that jazz.” Tom replied, concerning Ramos.

“Maybe you’re the one using me!” Ramos replied, trying to ignore him.

“Maybe I am, but perhaps I truly want a new friend. Chocolate?” Tom offered, giving him another chocolate bar.

“...I still dont trust you, but your chocolate bar last time wasn’t bad, so...sure, I guess.” Ramos replied, taking it.

He rips the wrapper, and begins eating the chocolate bar.

“Hmm...actually, this is pretty good. But aren’t you one of those Council members? I know you don’t like the Federation...” Ramos questioned to him.

“I know, but perhaps I want to do something different. This amulet stuff is pretty basic compared to the other forms of magic I could teach you.” Tom offered.

“...Magic, you say? I have missed having magical powers since I lost my staff!” Ramos replied.

“Yes, I could teach you really cool magical spells. Whatever kind you want.” Tom replied.

“Meh, this amulet stuff is getting boring anyways. I want to learn real magic! Teach me! How about some wicked dark spells from Beast’s book!?” Ramos suggested.

“Ooh, yes, good idea. It’s a good thing I have it right here.” Tom said, pulling the book out of nowhere.

“Heh, not bad! Alright, let’s get started! Teach me your secrets!” Ramos said.

“Hold on there, eager beaver. First you need a wand, or something that functions like a wand.” Tom replied.

“Well...I have the remains of my staff, even though it’s just a stick.” Ramos said, pulling out of his pocket.

“That will do. Now, you could start with dark magic, but you could go with light magic if it’s too much to handle. There’s no right or wrong way, some people dabble in both. I won’t stray you from whichever path you take.” Tom explained.

“Give me whatever spell you got! I’m glad SOMEONE wants to teach me something for a change...” Ramos said.

“Nobody has taught you anything before? Not even your father?” Tom inquired.

“Haha, my father!? My jerk of a father Edward never really liked me or taught me anything, all he did was just give me the crown! He was barely a father figure to me! And that’s just him! My mother Elizabeth pretends I don’t exist, and my brother Brak I haven’t seen in years, but he never liked or taught me anything either.” Ramos replied, sighing. “How was your father?”

“My father was okay, I guess. Maybe I could be a father figure to you, and a friend, and a teacher, all at once. What do you say?” Tom offered, as Ramos shakes his hand.

“I guess you could be cool, since I’m starting to wonder if that Beast guy even cares about me. Now then, let’s get this magic stuff started!” Ramos replied, leaving the amulet on his stone chair.

Jake and Cameron make their way to Grador’s pit, seeing him resting.

“Grador, we need your assistance once more.” Cameron said, waking him up.

“Oh my...what are you two doing here at this hour?” Grador asked.

“We’re being haunted. We all keep seeing our worst fears thanks to this ghost, and it’s difficult to catch. We can’t let it give away the location of our base. We want to know where the ghost came from, and how to get rid of it.” Jake explained.

“Hmm...sounds to me like someone is projecting this ghost to you using a magical item. They must be somewhere faraway...” Grador said.

“...Beast.” Cameron realized to himself.

“Do you know how we can stop them? I don’t want to see these ghosts anymore...” Jake said to Grador.

“Then don’t turn around.” Grador replied ominously, concerning Jake and Cameron.

The two slowly turn around, seeing the evil knight. They look back, but Grador has disappeared from the area, confusing them.

“Well so much for him helping us...” Jake sighed.

The evil knight jumps down, and swings his sword at the two. Jake realizes his knight outfit is gone due to his fear.

No, my knight armor is gone!” Jake said, as he dodges the evil knight’s dark attacks.

“Keep fighting. As Grador said to us before, you still have strength without your powers.” Cameron replied, clashing his sword against the evil knight’s.

“You’re right, I’m not giving up!” Jake yelled, sliding around in the sand.

The evil knight strikes at Jake, but he throws his arm in the way, which forms the red shield, and he uses it to attack the knight. He concentrates, and the shield transforms into the red glue. It’s sent at the ground, which the knight steps in. It gets stuck, and Cameron strikes at their helmet. Their helmet goes flying off, showing the evil Jake’s face. He growls, showing his purple eyes. 

“...It’s me!? I’m your greatest fear!?” Jake asked, confused.

“When we visited the Mystic Temple, a guard said you would fall to the darkness. Ever since, I’ve been fearing what may happen to you, and I guess you becoming evil has been a fear. I just didn’t know it was my greatest fear...” Cameron explained.

“I’d never betray you guys unless I got brainwashed or something, trust me. The only thing I don’t understand is why I’m seeing him too if this is your fear.” Jake questioned.

“I don’t know either, but Beast is clearly toying with us. Let’s finish this together.” Cameron replied.

“JOIN THE BEAST!” Evil Jake yelled to the two, as he breaks the glue off.

Cameron sends his sword flying at evil Jake, but he catches it with both hands, holding on. Cameron powers his sword up, and breaks it loose from evil Jake’s grip, and strikes it at his left leg, exposing dark essence. 

“Hey, watch it. I know this thing is evil, but it’s still me...kind of!” Jake said, punching evil Jake, who strikes his sword again, but Jake slides onto the sandy ground, avoiding it.

“Sorry, just trying to make sure this thing stays down for good!” Cameron replied, striking the sword out of evil Jake’s hands.

Evil Jake shoots fire from his mouth at the two, as they run around the pit, avoiding it.

“Okay, even if this is evil, I have to admit, that is kind of cool...and messed up!” Jake said, as he jumps off the top of the pit, and tackles evil Jake, punching him in the face. 

Cameron then strikes his sword right through evil Jake, as he vanishes into dark mist. Suddenly, it reforms into Drakkus, and Jake’s knight suit returns.

“It looks like our ghost has finally shown himself! Fight us like a man!” Jake said, as the ghost Drakkus clashes with both’s swords.

The remaining heroes are shown fighting their fears. Audrey avoids dark gusts from the fake Mai, and concentrates. 

“This isn’t the real Mai. It’s just a ghost!” Audrey said, as she enters her elemental form of wind.

She sends a powerful attack right at the fake Mai, blowing her away, along with the fog. Audrey exits the form, feeling relieved. She reappears outside several ruin structures, seeing more dark red fog nearby where the rest of her group is. Tori is inside her fog cloud fighting the water elemental form. Tori concentrates, and enters her own elemental form. She sends a powerful water blast right back at the other form, which is knocked aside. Tori grabs it with her water arms, and consumes the dark form into herself. She exits the form, as the fog clears.

“So I conquered my fear by absorbing it...I think. That’s pretty cool. Still didn’t really feel like my actual fear, but whatever gets this over with.” Tori said, relieved.

Nick drowns in the jelly, and focuses. He lets out a green magical spell from his stone, cutting through the jelly, startling the doughnut monster. He uses his stone to super jump out, and lands on the top of the doughnut monster. He casts another spell onto it, turning the monster into a bunch of pizza slices. He lands on the ground with them, and eats a slice.

“Tastes pretty good for something out of my nightmares.” Nick said, as the fog clears.

Zero fights against Scrappertin, his gear robots, and the three mysterious scientists. He sends stun pulses at the scientists, making them fade away. He slices right through more gear robots, and sends an electricity shock at Scrappertin, making him disappear. The fog clears, as the group reunites.

“Thank goodness that’s over, we conquered our fears!” Audrey said, relieved.

“Yeah, let’s hope the others had the same luck.” Tori replied.

“You guys want some? It’s made from the remains of a jelly doughnut monster.” Nick offered, showing pizza slices to the three.

“...I’ll pass.” Zero replied, as the four go to find the others.

Madison is still confronting herself, and concentrates.

“I won’t become Valina. This is just an illusion.” Madison reminded herself, as she enters her elemental form of electricity.

She sends a lightning bolt right at the form, making it disappear before her own eyes. The fog clears, as Madison exits her form. Cynthia is still fighting off the evil Elana, countering with rocks.

“I’m not hurting the real Elana, it’s just a dumb ghost!” Cynthia said to herself, as she transforms into her elemental form of earth.

She rises up the ground around the evil Elana, and makes multiple rock structures surround her. She makes them crush her. The rocks move apart, showing nothing left. Cynthia exits her elemental form, and the fog clears, relieving her. Trent fights off against the zombies, sending his laser arrows at them, along with burning through them with his stone. He finishes them all off, as the fog clears. Lastly, Flinn focuses, as the building closes in on him. He glows gold, and sends powerful gold slashes right through the wall, allowing him to exit the building. The fog clears, and the building is how it was before.

Meanwhile, Tom trains Ramos. 

“See that amulet? Try to levitate it with this spell: levitatus.” Tom explained.

Ramos concentrates on the amulet, and points his stick.

“Levitatus!” Ramos yelled.

The amulet floats up about an inch, and falls back down on the chair, much to his dismay.

“Try again.” Tom said.

Ramos yells “Levitatus” again, and the amulet moves up a bit more, but falls back down.

“I’m terrible at this!” Ramos sighed.

“No, your heart just isn’t in it. I know you can do this. Do it with all your passion and might. I believe in you.” Tom said, cheering on Ramos.

“Levitatus!” Ramos yelled confidently, as he successfully sends the amulet flying in the air.

The amulet falls down to the rocky ground, smashing apart, pleasing Tom.

“Woohoo, I mastered one spell!” Ramos said, dancing.

Jake and Cameron keep fighting Drakkus. Cameron and Jake strike at his armor, leaving dents, and Jake disarms his sword. Suddenly, Drakkus freezes due to the amulet breaking, and disappears.

“...Alright then. He just vanished on us...whatever. Anyways, that guard said I may turn evil? They were probably trying to scare you, but thanks for looking out for me." Jake said to him.

"You're probably right. It was just bothering me ever since, but that temple did play with our minds like this ghost. Let's find the others." Cameron replied.

They head back to the main site, meeting the rest of the heroes. They explain everything that happened.

“So Beast was responsible for that Drakkus we saw long ago? Wow.” Audrey said.

“I wiped out a bunch of zombies, pretty cool.” Trent said.

“Mine was crazy. At least I know I didn’t crush the real Elana back there, or that would’ve been difficult.” Cynthia said.

“If you thought yours was crazy, wait until you hear about mine.” Nick said.

“I got to conquer me fear of claustrophobia, so I guess that’s somethin’.” Flinn said.

“I don’t know if we truly destroyed our fears for good, but we were able to face them, which is good.” Madison said.

“Yes, every hero needs to see their own fears and flaws. I don’t know what Beast has in store, but even if he knows where our base is, he can’t do anything.” Ranen said.

“Yeah, and if he tries to scare us again, we’ll be ready for his tricks.” Jake said, as Tom is shown with Ramos.

“You still have a long ways to go, that was only one spell. But it was a start.” Tom said, happy.

“Thank you! But why did you strand yourself here?” Ramos questioned.

“Because I wanted to help you get away from that guy. I imagine you don’t like it here anymore.” Tom said.

“No, I’ve been slowly losing my mind here! Say, can you tell me more on Beast? Why didn’t he just leave here when the portal was opened long ago?” Ramos questioned.

“He is playing the long game. He wanted the portal to open so he could absorb the powers of both gemstones for himself. He has since been biding his time until an event called Operation: Darkest Hour. I’m sorry, but he really doesn’t care about you. You are just a pawn in his game of chess.” Tom revealed, shocking Ramos.

“That JERK! He intentionally stranded me here just to steal my gemstone’s powers!? I gave up my magic and armies nothing! When I see him, I’ll...” Ramos replied, irritated. 

Beast claps his hands, appearing before the two.

“Greetings.” Beast said.

“The jig is up! Ol’ Tom spilled the beans! You truly don’t care about me! He told me everything, you are using me for some odd reason! Well no more will I be your pawn in some dumb mind game! I’m tired of being treated like dirt!” Ramos confronted to Beast.

Beast doesn’t respond, as Ramos points his staff at him. 

“Be prepared for levitatus!” Ramos threatened.

Beast claps his hands, as the book opens to a page. A dark energy explodes out of the page, trapping Ramos and Beast inside the light, as Tom looks away. The light stops, as only Ramos remains. He turns around, showing purple eyes, and smiles.

“Give it up Tom, he’s not joining your side.” Beast said to him, controlling Ramos.

“I don’t think he’ll be joining yours either. Too bad for you I don’t have a side.” Tom replied, shrugging.

“You don’t? Excellent. Don’t worry, he’ll forget what you told him. Everything has aligned.” Beast replied.

He snaps his fingers, making the book open. Several dark chains launch out, capturing Tom. He doesn’t seem to mind, and lets it happen, as he is dragged inside of the book. The book seals shut, as Beast laughs in Ramos’s body. 

Notes/Trivia:

-Tom has no fears.

-Fifth time the Elemental forms are used. 

-This is (sort of) the first time Ramos and his family have all ever been in the same scene together, albeit through a hallucination and not the real ones.

-Zurtrax, Van Gordon, Doyle, Elizabeth, Motordrone, and Scrappertin appear as hallucinations.

-

 

It is revealed the Drakkus hallucination from “Warrior” back in Season 1 was Beast’s doing, which he had conjured with the amulet.

 

-

 

Tom is imprisoned by Beast in the dark spell book, and he possesses Ramos.

 

-

 

It is revealed the reason Beast wanted Ramos to open the portal to his dimension so he could absorb the powers of the green and blue stones for himself.

 

-

 

Beast may have a connection to Grador.

 

-Everyone’s fears:

• Ramos: His allies and family turning against him
• Madison: Turning into Valina
• Cynthia: Elana becoming evil
• Audrey: Mai turning evil
• Tori: Her elemental form
• Jake: Losing his knight powers
• Cameron: Jake becoming evil (due to the warning from "Ancient Ghosts")
• Trent: Zombies
• Flinn: Claustrophobia
• Nick: A doughnut monster
• Zero: His past

[SpongeOddFan]

This is an awesome eposide lead in to s3 finale which I'm probably looking forward to next week. It's interesting to see the heroes facing their fears (lol Nick's fear), and fighting against it for themselves, and Beast lured Ramos is shocking reveal from Tom guess that means Beast is true Toffee at the end Overall, all this bulids up to next week's season finale makes me hyped for this.

[Metal Snake]

Great pre-finale episode that tied in perfectly with the time of Halloween. Since SOF already pointed out the Star reference, I guess I'll just comment on how the Halloween in June line made me chuckle, reminding me of Summerween from Gravity Falls. XD

[Jjs Goodman]

Here we go, season finale time. Buckle in, this is gonna be a ride.

77. Operation: Darkest Hour (Part 1)

Outside the Neo Federation base at night, Colress gets out of his limo. Two unique soldiers accompany him, who are wearing advanced black armor and dark green visors. He walks inside with them, as Edward, Brak, Vexacus, Broodwing, Thorn, and Morgana wait for him.

“The gang’s all here...sort of. We still have no clue what happened to those hunters, how sad.” Morgana said.

“They were so weak.” Thorn replied.

“Last we saw them, they tried attacking Icy, but they never came back. Either they ran off to hunt for her, or she took care of them.” Brak theorized.

“Wherever they are, I won’t miss them. The hunter program has become a useless asset to us. The remaining ones are impossible to get in touch with. They aren’t needed in our current plan.” Edward replied coldly, as Colress approaches them.

“Greetings everyone. I bring urgent news.” Colress said.

“Nice soldiers you got there. Never seen those kind before...” Thorn said, checking them out.

“They are Elite Soldiers. Only highly ranked officials in the Federation can command them.” Edward explained.

“Come with me to my office.” Colress ordered, as everyone follows.

Skipper sees this from the balcony above. As they walk, one of the Elite Soldiers looks at Morgana, making her nervous, as she keeps walking. They arrive in Colress’s office, who turns off the lights.

“Is all this secrecy really necessary?” Broodwing asked.

“There’s still a traitor in midst, we need to be careful on what we discuss and where we speak. It’d be unfortunate if this information fell into the wrong hands.” Colress said, as Skipper overhears from a vent in another room.

“What’s your information?” Vexacus asked.

“The rebels are going to launch a major strike against the Federation soon, right here in Posidonia.” Colress revealed.

“They wouldn’t dare!” Edward said.

“Oh, believe me, they would. Everything leading up to now has been rehearsal, the real performance is about to begin. I’m counting on it.” Colress said ominously.

“What target do you believe they’d attack?” Brak asked.

“Likely the factories building our ships and weapons. When they hacked into the academy records, it provided them with the locations of every factory.” Colress noted.

“Do you have an idea where their base is?” Vexacus asked.

“I’m close to discovering it. A soldier reported seeing multiple soldiers head toward Western Karmania once again. I’ll uncover where they’re heading soon.” Colress replied.

“When we uncover this base, we’ll obliterate them into ashes.” Edward said.

“My apologies, but I disagree. I’d like their leadership captured. If you want to end the rebellion, you must make examples of their leaders.” Colress suggested.

“Fair point.” Edward replied.

“If we do find it, how exactly do you plan to strike?” Broodwing asked skeptically.

“I have a plan, but I’d prefer not to say it in case someone hears anything further.” Colress explained cryptically.

Skipper walks away, smiling.

The heroes are at the Hidden Kingdom. The planes are finished, as multiple soldiers fly them around. The base is active, as many soldiers walk around. Jake is with Cameron, as they’re outside a tall ruin building.

“Wow, Ranen really did it. Look at everyone. After so long, the kingdom has the resources to expand its army. We’ll finally be able to unite all of Karmania with the army’s power.” Jake said, impressed, seeing a stone plane flying around the night sky. It safely lands down onto the sandy ground.

“It wasn’t just Ranen.” Cameron added, as the two walk along a path.

“Oh, I know. You too Cameron, and Madison, and Elana, and Zero, and everyone.” Jake replied, and Cameron laughs.

“No, that’s not what I meant. I meant you.” Cameron replied, confusing Jake.

“...I didn’t do any of this. I haven’t really done that much honestly compared to the rest. If not for you guys finding me, I’d just be back in Posidonia like a normal person, or worse, a thief in Algaeton Heights.” Jake said.

“Jake, you’ve never been a “normal person”. Ranen always saw something special in you, and...so did I. At first, I was jealous, but deep down I knew you had the courage to be a leader. Then I was worried I wouldn’t be able to follow you. Other times, Ranen and I were worried we wouldn’t be able to teach you everything you needed to become a leader.” Cameron replied.

“But you guys did. I learned so much.” Jake replied.

“So have I. We all have. Sometimes I worry we’ve run out of things to teach you about being a knight.” Cameron replied.

“I don’t mean about knight stuff, I mean being a good person, and doing what’s right.” Jake replied, as Cameron smiles.

“Hey you two, sorry to interrupt whatever your important conversation was, but we’re having an important meeting!” Steele said to them, asking them to follow, as they do so.

As Cameron goes ahead with Steele, Audrey approaches Jake.

“Oh, hey there Audrey.” Jake greeted to her.

“Hi. Wow, our hard work sure payed off, didn’t it?” Audrey asked, seeing a wooden plane flying overhead.

“Yeah, thanks for your assistance. I can’t wait to see how your painting turned out for the blimp when that’s ready.” Jake replied to her.

“I sort of overheard some of your conversation with Cameron. I didn’t mean to spy, but I think you’ve been a great leader for the knights. We’ve all contributed something.” Audrey said, trying to cheer him up.

“Thanks, you always know how to be positive. I’m sorry for that time I rejected your kiss by the way, it just surprised me...” Jake said to her.

“It’s okay, I was caught up in the moment...” Audrey replied awkwardly.

“I guess I was nervous, and Ranen told us once not to “get too attached you four”, whatever he meant by that. But he’s fine with Madison and Trent, so I doubt it matters. I’ve had time to think about it, and you’re really talented...and beautiful. I don’t know if you still feel the same, but...” Jake was saying, surprising Audrey.

Jake kisses her on the lips, making the two blush.

“Aww. I never really let go of my crush.” Audrey admitted.

“I had a feeling.” Jake replied laughing.

“I’m just kind of worried what the others will think.” Audrey replied.

“Eh, who cares what the others think, as long as we’re happy.” Jake replied, making Audrey happy.

“Maybe after this, we could go on a date?” Audrey suggested.

“We’ll see.” Jake replied, smiling, as the two head to the meeting site with the heroes, soldiers and Ranen.

“Thank you all for the assistance. However, it’s about time we dealt a major strike to the Federation. We’ve managed to drive them out of Karmania, but now we need to focus on defeating them in Posidonia, the home of the guardians. I know that sooner or later, they may start cracking down on your presence there.” Ranen explained.

“Finally, I’m getting tired of fighting them, and their rule over us.” Tori replied.

“How will we do that though? It’ll be kind of hard to defeat the people running Posidonia without civilians getting suspicious.” Madison said.

“We don’t have to draw attention. Thanks to the data Zero gathered from the academy records, we know how to strike them in a way without having the public knowing. We have locations of every known factory across Posidonia where they build their weapons and ships. If we sabotaged their factories, we can put a halt to their production. From there, we can destroy the Neo Federation’s base since you know where it is. With their resources depleted, they’ll hopefully leave us alone and give up trying to invade Karmania.” Ranen explained.

“Sounds like a plan.” Tori replied.

“If it works, but considering their competence so far, I wouldn’t worry.” Cynthia replied.

“Aye, it’s time we taught ‘em not to mess with us anymore. I just hope this won’t ruin our Ottelia relations considering me job.” Flinn replied.

“Don’t worry, you have diplomatic immunity. They would be foolish to attempt to hurt you without potentially starting a war with Ottelia.” Ranen replied.

“If Ramos was still king, I wouldn’t put it past him.” Tori replied.

“When do we attack?” Trent asked.

“Not right now, but in the coming days, we will. First we have to map out paths to every factory. Plus, several of the royal soldiers were sent to the Shadow Lands to help aid the innocent civilians there, so I’d rather wait until we have as many soldiers as possible. Attacking at night would be ideal, as they wouldn’t see it coming.” Ranen explained.

“Whatever happens, we’ll aid you in the attack, guardians and knights. We owe our lives to you.” a soldier said, as many of the soldiers bow to them.

“Thanks, dudes. I really like your armor, even though those two weird guys tried using it against us that one time.” Nick recalled.

They receive a message on their communication device.

“Hello comrades, it is I, Feodor Van Gordon. I has the Neo Federation base in sights.” Van Gordon reported.

Van Gordon spies on the Neo Federation base, hiding behind a tree. His binoculars zoom in on the factory, and he holds a communicator in his other hand. He sees several soldiers patrolling around the outside. 

“Good job, keep in touch if you see anything of interest.” Ranen replied through the communicator.

“Yes sir. Gordon out!” Van Gordon replied, saluting, and ending the transmission.

“Wait, he’s helping us full time now?” Cynthia asked.

“Correct, Van Gordon has been spying on the Federation for us. He agreed to help keep an eye on them when he’s not treasure hunting.” Zero explained.

“That’s nice, I’m happy to see he still wants to help.” Madison replied.

“It’s so weird how he was once trying to destroy us, and is now one of our allies. Me and him are pretty tight after the Pyrite Town shenanigans. Anyways, in other important news, Luna told me the Council has found the Beast guy’s dimension, so that’s cool.” Nick said.

“I hope they’re able to find Tom...that is, if Beast didn’t do something to him.” Audrey said, worried.

“Tom is a bit of an oddball, but I trust he can handle Beast’s tricks.” Ranen replied.

“Should we aid them?” Cameron asked.

“No, Cesare said only they should go for now. But if they need our help, they’ll let us know.” Ranen replied.

“Wow, first the Federation might fall, and now the Beast. Looks like our bad guys might be seeing their days numbered soon.” Tori said, impressed.

At the castle, Elana is inside of her parents’ room. Suddenly, a portal opens, as Luna and Briar walk out.

“Greetings, your majesty.” Briar said to Meritel.

“Hey Luna and Briar, what’re you doing here?” Elana asked.

“We need your mother for urgent business.” Luna replied.

“Am I allowed to know?” Orion asked.

“Yes, Cesare found the location to an unknown dimension, where Tom is. This must be where The Beast and Ramos are as well. We’d like you to come along with us and confront him.” Briar offered to Meritel.

“I’ll go. I’ve waited too long to see him again face to face. I’d like to teach him a lesson for corrupting my daughter’s crown.” Meritel replied determined, putting on royal armor, and grabs her old crown. She puts it on her head, letting her hair down, and her body glows.

“I don’t know about this, this might be dangerous!” Orion protested.

“I’ll be fine, trust me.” Meritel replied.

“I wonder why he hasn’t tried doing anything with my crown lately. Do you want me to go with you?” Elana asked.

“No dear, I feel it’s for the best you stay here with your father. I wouldn’t want something to happen to you.” Meritel replied.

“I understand, please be careful mom.” Elana replied.

“I don’t think a creepy dimension belonging to someone named “The Beast” is particularly safe, especially after what he did to you know who. I wish we didn’t send so many of our soldiers to the Shadow Lands, you could’ve used them...” Orion said unsurely, as Meritel thought about it.

“I did fear him after what he did to my mother, but it’s time I faced my fears. I promise I’ll be fine with Luna, Briar and Cesare by my side.” Meritel replied.

“Don’t you want to take at least one soldier?” Orion asked, but Meritel has made up her mind.

“We’ll keep her safe, we’re not stupid.” Luna replied.

“Well...okay. Good luck.” Orion replied.

“Take good care of Elana and the castle while I’m gone.” Meritel replied, kissing Orion on the cheek.

Meritel heads into the portal with Luna and Briar, as it closes behind. They arrive at the Sky Kingdom, seeing Cesare conjuring a portal with magic. The portal displays Beast’s dimension in its image, as he finishes his spell.

“It’s ready. My foresight is unsure exactly what awaits us, but Beast, Ramos and Tom are all in there somewhere...” Cesare said.

“I’m ready for whatever he has in store.” Meritel replied, as they head into the portal.

Skipper walks around the Posidonia castle, and heads into the old campaign manager’s room. The room appears empty, but Skipper waves his right hand to cast a spell, making a desk and chair appear, revealing they were hidden. On the desk is a transmitter with a microphone. He sits down at the chair, and turns on the transmitter, which is magically glowing, allowing Skipper to send his message to Karmania.

“This is Agent with an important message, Colress knows about-” Skipper was saying, when the transmitter acts up, confusing him.

Skipper presses the buttons and turns the knobs, but nothing works.

“By the shining water of Posidonia...” Colress spoke, startling Skipper.

Skipper turns around to see Colress standing at the room entrance, and gets up from his chair.

“That is your code phrase, correct Skipper? Or would you prefer if I address you as “Agent”? I’m afraid the rebels won’t be receiving your message.” Colress explained, showing a device in his right hand that intercepted it.

Skipper tries to punch him, but Colress kicks his right leg, blocking him. Skipper blasts dark electricity from his hand, but Colress avoids it, and punches Skipper in the face. Skipper punches him back, but Colress grabs him and throws him to the ground. Skipper immediately gets up, and throws a doughnut at Colress, but he catches it, crushing it in his hand.

“Your technique is...intriguing, but your dark magic tricks are predictable.” Colress noted.

Skipper sends a dark electricity blast, and throws a pie at his legs, causing Colress to trip. He drops his device, which Skipper smashes with his foot, turning the transmitter back on. 

“You talk too much!” Skipper said, raising his fists.

Colress stands up, and readies his fists. Skipper tries punching him, as Colress counters, and punches him in the stomach, but Skipper punches him back in the face. Before Skipper shoots another dark electric attack, Colress punches him in the face, and kicks him in the right leg. Skipper makes his unicycle appear, but Colress kicks Skipper right in his stomach, sending him flying against the hallway wall. The two Elite Soldiers approach Skipper, as they grab and pick him up. They put him in special handcuffs, as Colress approaches him, with Skipper looking annoyed.

“Those handcuffs are magic blockers, you won’t be able to use your dark magic tricks. You have the heart and spirit of a rebel.” Colress noted.

“I’ll take that as a compliment...” Skipper replied, as Colress walks down the hall, with the Elite Soldiers following while carrying Skipper.

Skipper is brought inside of Colress’s office by the Elite Soldiers, still handcuffed, and now with a black eye. Colress turns his hologram map of Karmania on.

“You may have transmitted your message, but in doing so, you provided me the last piece of the puzzle. Now, this is normally the trajectory of the Central Karmania Army, and this is the trajectory of your Agent transmission. Taken separately, they mean nothing, but together...” Colress was explaining, showing two diagonal lines on his hologram map, and a circle is formed at the center, showing the Hidden Kingdom. 

“There’s nothing there, they’re smarter than you give them credit for...” Skipper replied.

“It’s a pity you do not study art, Skipper. There’s much it can show you, if you know how and where to look. There is a kingdom that does not appear on any maps, nor is it seen by the ordinary eyes, but is represented in the ancient arts of the Karmanian people. Legends have to come from somewhere. They stated a powerful wizard cleverly cloaked this said kingdom with a spell, but nobody knew where it was. I believe they once called this kingdom “Terralar”...or as now known in myths, the Hidden Kingdom, now the home of the army’s base. Edward, order everyone to head to these coordinates. We shall commence Operation: Darkest Hour.” Colress explained smiling, contacting Edward through a transmission.

“They’ve defeated ships, robots and soldiers plenty of times before, what will make this attack different? Plus, how will you even get the ships to Karmania with those puny scissors?” Skipper asked smugly.

“How you underestimate us, Skipper. Admiral Skorch’s attacks were flawed. We’ve been preparing for this, and talked about several key details in a room where you could not spy on us. I’ve developed multiple anti-magical weapons, and an efficient way to transport our ships to Karmania, thanks to the data I gathered from the Heart of Karmania, along with how Zurtrax made his Dimensional Accelerator.” Colress explained, concerning Skipper.

“Should we terminate him?” an Elite Soldier asked in a distorted voice.

“No. Bring him along with us. I’d like for him to watch the base of the people he’s been trying to desperately help burn before his eyes.” Colress said, worrying Skipper.

“Attention everyone in the base. Get your weapons, and get inside of a ship. We’ve found the rebel base, be prepared to attack.” Edward announced throughout the facility.

“We’re attacking this late at night?” Morgana asked annoyed.

“It’s a clever strategy. A late night attack is one they’d least suspect.” Brak replied, walking the hallway.

Colress is outside the base, and activates a device in his right hand. It shoots out a blue light from it, forming a portal. He goes into a hangar, seeing Scrappertin’s ship waiting for him, which has been fixed and has many modifications to it. The Elite Soldiers then walk in, holding Skipper. Edward looks at him angrily.

“So, the butler was the traitor the whole time? Of course it’s the one I least suspected.” Vexacus said.

“Aw, how disappointing Skippy. Thought you were cool, but oh well.” Morgana replied, shrugging.

“I so always knew there was something weird about him.” Thorn replied.

“I never really liked any of you anyways, so-” Skipper was saying, as one of the Elite Soldiers hits him in the back of the head.

Colress, Edward, Thorn, Morgana, Vexacus, Brak, and the Elite Soldiers carrying Skipper board Scrappertin’s redesigned ship.

“This place is so cool.” Thorn said, looking at the advanced machinery as they walk down the hall.

Broodwing heads to his own ship in the hangar with other soldiers. It’s similar to the other smaller Federation ships, but is painted black and red to represent him.

“Excellent, I’ve been waiting to command one of these!” Broodwing said, getting inside, as the hangar door opens.

Back in the Hidden Kingdom, the heroes gather around their communicator.

“We’re getting another incoming transmission, this time from Agent.” Ranen said.

“This is Agent with an important message, Colress knows about-” the message said, as it cuts off.

“...Colress knows? About what?” Cameron asked, worried.

“My deep, dark secret?” Nick pondered.

“Our attack on the Federation factories?” Jake suggested.

“Hold on, we’re getting another transmission from Gordon.” Zero said, as they listen to the communicator.

“Hi comrades, Gordon again. I’m still spying on them, but they somehow just open a portal. Many strange ships goes through it. What does it mean?” Van Gordon asked, seeing the portal and ships flying through it.

“Colress knows we’re here. Everyone, battle stations!” Ranen ordered to the royal soldiers, who get to their planes.

“Are you certain?” Steele asked.

“Last time they sent this many soldiers, they ambushed us at the Underground City.” Jake reminded.

“Evacuate the area, we’re getting out of here!” Ranen ordered.

In the Central Karmania valley, ten Neo Federation ships fly out of the portal, racing their way towards the Hidden Kingdom. Talking Tree sees them fly by overhead.

“That doesn’t look good!” Talking Tree panicked.

“I see...one...two...ten ships above us. Yep, this isn’t good. Ironic how they’re attacking us at night.” Nick said, as everyone looks above.

“Too bad they can’t see us still-” Tori was saying.

A blast is fired from one of the ships at both the totem poles outside the barrier. The totem poles near them turn to flames, and crumble to dust. The invisible barrier around the kingdom fades away, becoming viewable to the Neo Federation. 

“...Never mind.” Tori sighed.

“Oh no, this is bad!” Steele panicked.

Zero activates the defense system, as the plasma cannons rise out of the sand, ready.

“Hey, that ship looks familiar...” Trent said, noticing Scrappertin’s ship flying above.

“That appears to be Scrappertin’s. The Neo Federation must have rebuilt it.” Zero noted, zooming in on it.

“We should’ve just destroyed that hunk of junk.” Cynthia replied.

“Live and learn.” Madison replied, as she flashes the heart, transforming the girls, and the guys transform.

“We were so close!” Jake said disappointed.

“I know, but we’re not giving up.” Cameron replied.

“Soldiers, escape and contact the castle!” Ranen ordered, as several soldiers get into their planes.

“We can’t, our transmissions are being jammed.” a soldier replied, trying to use the communicator, but it’s not working.

“Greetings. We have your base surrounded, and there’s no escape. This rebellion ends today.” Colress spoke to them through the communicator.

“We won’t surrender to you, Colress.” Madison replied.

“You misunderstand, Mrs. Landers. I’m not accepting surrenders at this time. I want you to know failure and utter defeat, crashing down upon you, delivered by yours truly. Now, we shall proceed.” Colress replied, ending his transmission to them. 

“All soldiers, fly out of here and get to the castle!” Ranen ordered through his communicator.

A soldier tries to fly out of the area, but suddenly, a red plasma barrier similar to the plasma cubes the Ultra Slayers use appears. The soldier swerves the wooden plane, and fires laser blasts at the plasma wall, but nothing happens. He notices a large plasma cube begins to cover the area. Broodwing’s ship and another ship fly in from both sides, as their backs display both parts of the plasma cube. The remaining eight ships stay on the outside of the cube.

“I can’t get out, there’s some box trapping us!” the soldier replied, as they kept flying around.

Madison tries to open a portal, but the plasma barrier shoots an electricity blast at the heart, preventing her, shocking the heroes.

“It looks like there’s no escape for any of us.” Ranen said grimly.

“This appears to be the same material used for the red Slayers’ plasma cubes that trapped us. It's weakening our magical powers."” Zero said, analyzing it.

“We need someone to escape and get help.” Madison said.

“There are two specific ships holding the plasma cube. We need to take them out first.” Zero explained.

“Looks like our job.” Tori replied, as the girls fly up.

They fire elemental attacks at the two ships containing the plasma barriers, but the attacks are stopped by shield pulses around the ships.

“Those are anti-magic shields. They said technology couldn’t combat magic, however...I disagree. I’m afraid destroying our ships won’t be easy this time.” Colress spoke from a microphone in Scrappertin’s ship, as his voice echoes across the area.

“Wow, he really came prepared...” Audrey said, as they fly down.

“Our planes will handle them. Soldiers, get to your planes and form Phase Alpha. Jake and Cameron, I want you two to get help after we make an opening.” Ranen ordered.

“Hold on, there’s someone out in the plains I need to warn.” Cameron replied.

“We kind of need you guys to get help asap.” Tori replied.

“That’s what I’m doing.” Cameron replied.

“You mean from him?” Jake asked.

“Hey, I can be a decent persuader.” Cameron replied.

“Who are you guys talking about?” Madison asked curiously.

“You wouldn’t believe me if I told you. Trust me, I won’t be long.” Cameron replied.

“Alright, Jake and Audrey, wait for an opening and get help. Be safe, Cameron.” Ranen said.

Audrey and Jake rush off, while Cameron goes to find Grador. Ranen gets inside of a mechanical ship with two soldiers, as it flies off with multiple other planes. The planes swarm around, firing attacks at Broodwing’s ship and the other ship, who fire lasers back. 

“Interesting formation, as expected by one of the best commanders of this army. Ships two through five may enter for reinforcements. Do not strike at the base, focus only on the planes.” Colress ordered.

The four ships fly in, and fly around, firing lasers at the planes. The plasma cannons fire at them, but they avoid the attacks. Colress contacts Broodwing in his ship, as the planes keep fighting off the ships.

“Broodwing, keep your cruiser in that position until I say otherwise.” Colress ordered.

“Why not just strike them right now with overwhelming force?” Broodwing asked.

“I’ve studied these rebels. No doubt will they attempt something unexpected. We’ll be prepared for it, as long as you do exactly as I command...” Colress explained sternly.

“...As you wish.” Broodwing replied hesitantly, ending the communication.

“Fighting for the glory?” Skipper inquired.

“I do not require glory, only results.” Colress replied, glaring at him.

“When can we go down?” Vexacus asked.

“Not yet. First, I want to take care of their planes.” Colress replied.

“When are they going to attack us? Some attack this is.” Cynthia said snidely, seeing the remaining ships remaining dormant on the outside.

“I think they want to take out the planes first...” Madison replied, worried.

Before the girls can fly up and aid the planes, suddenly, some of the ships release Slayer balls, forming green, blue, black and orange ones. Multiple green Slayers fly around, and attack the planes with the ships. Ranen’s plane shoots at a ship’s engine, making it explode, sending the remains down into the sand. The girls and knights attack the Slayers around the kingdom, as ground soldiers and Steele aid them. Steele slices through a black one, and Nick sends a doughnut spell at another. Flinn sends golden slashes right through a blue one, while Trent fires laser arrows at an orange one. The plasma cannons fire, shooting down a green Slayer, and an orange one near Zero.

“WAAH!!” a soldier yelled, as their stone plane goes out of control, and smashes into a ruin structure, making it collapse.

“Yikes...” Audrey said, as some Slayers approach her and Jake. 

They immediately attack, as Jake slashes at them, and Audrey sends gusts of sand, blinding them.

In Beast’s dimension, Meritel and the Council arrive, appearing on a small platform.

“Well this place is depressing and creepy.” Luna said, looking around at the void.

They see another platform below, as Luna levitates them down onto it. They see Ramos sleeping on the ground. Cesare sends a psychic attack at him, waking him up.

“...What the? The Council and a lady I’ve never seen before!?” Ramos asked, confused.

“King Ramos, we meet face to face. Thanks for having your family invade my kingdom the past fifty years.” Meritel said sarcastically. 

“You’re welcome!” Ramos replied, annoying Meritel.

Briar makes the rocks rise around Ramos’ legs, preventing him from moving.

“Let me go!” Ramos demanded, struggling.

“Where’s Tom?” Briar asked.

“...Tom? He’s gone.” Ramos replied, shocking the four.

“What did you do to him!?” Luna asked, about to attack.

“I didn’t do anything! Last I remember...Tom taught me a spell, Beast opened a spell book, and both of them disappeared! I don’t know what happened to either. I’ve been here all alone for the past week...” Ramos explained sighing, confusing them.

“Tom tried teaching you a spell? Why would he do that?” Luna asked.

“I dunno, he wanted to befriend me for some reason, and taught me “Levitatus”. I hope he’s okay wherever he is, I liked his chocolate.” Ramos replied, as the Council members had confused looks.

“What did Beast tell you?” Cesare asked curiously.

“Absolutely nothing. He always acted vague and weird and I get the feeling he may not have even liked me, although his tea was nice.” Ramos replied.

“I’m not sure how much I believe you. My foresight detects you are hiding something...” Cesare said.

“I concur, how do we know you’re not intentionally hiding where Beast is?” Meritel questioned.

“I don’t know anything! I’ve got nothing to attack you with, I lost both of the gemstones, they’re destroyed forever! Face it, you got nothing on me!” Ramos bragged, as the four had unsure looks on their faces.

“This appears to be getting us nowhere.” Briar said sadly.

“Let’s search the place, I still get the feeling something is hidden...” Cesare said, using his psychic powers.

“Psh, look all you want, but there’s nothing here!” Ramos bragged, as the four look around the rocky platforms.

The heroes continue to fight in the Hidden Kingdom. Cynthia sends rocks flying at a ship, but it resists them, while a stone plane fires lasers at it. Tori sends a whirlpool blast at a green Slayer, and a mechanical plane smashes into it, as the pilot gives Tori a thumbs up while flying. A heat-seeking missile is fired at her from a green Slayer, but she avoids it, and sends a whirlpool blast, knocking it into ruins. Madison sends a lightning blast at another ship, but it’s unaffected.

“Sorry girls, but these ships are too magic resistant for us. Let’s focus on the robots.” Madison accepted, as they float back down, helping the soldiers and knights attack the Slayers.

“I hope Cameron’s having better luck!” Jake said, clashing his sword against an orange Slayer’s.

Cameron arrives at Grador’s pit. Grador is sitting still, looking off in the distance.

“Grador? Grador?” Cameron called out, as Grador turns around.

“You have brought war and chaos to my quiet kingdom, Cameron Rhodes, Karmanian Knight. And I will have no part in it!” Grador said angrily.

“Wait, Grador, please hear me out-” Cameron tried to reason.

“Silence! I’m a neutral being, I’ve cut my ties to everyone else in this world. I don’t take any sides.” Grador replied.

“So you’re going to let us all perish? You think the Federation won’t attack you too?” Cameron questioned. 

“I’m beyond your worrying. I’m unseen and unknown, like a rock in the ocean. Do you think by chance this kingdom was so difficult for you to find?” Grador questioned.

“No, but maybe we were meant to find it, and find you.” Cameron replied.

“For what purpose? I was here long before you, and will be here long after. I’m the-” Grador was saying.

“-neutral one, as you keep saying. Listen, I tried to live that way once too. I thought I didn’t need to be a knight, and Karmania would survive without me. But when I heard about innocent beings suffering, and had the power to do something, I couldn’t let this world fall! There are some things worth fighting for!” Cameron argued to Grador, who has a neutral look.

“There’s no way for us to get out as long as those plasma barriers are cutting us off!” Jake noted, as he and Audrey keep fighting against Slayers. Audrey sends a whirlwind around a green Slayer, knocking it out of the sky, while Jake slices at two blue Slayers, but their armor is more resistant, taking the hits. 

Ranen hears Jake from inside his plane, and sees a wooden plane crash to the ground. His plane fires at a green Slayer, exploding it. He looks at Broodwing’s ship displaying half of the plasma barrier. 

“Jake and Audrey, head to the south exit, and prepare to leave.” Ranen ordered to him through the communicator, confusing them, and says to the two soldiers, "Set this plane on a crash course for that ship, and get ready to jump."

They set the plane on autopilot, heading for Broodwing’s ship. Ranen and the two soldiers jump out of it without Broodwing noticing, as Cynthia, Tori and Madison notice. They blast away some Slayers, and quickly grab the three, safely landing them on the sandy ground. 

“Thank you.” Ranen said to them, as the plane gets closer to Broodwing's ship, who notices the commander symbol on it.

“That’s Ranen’s plane! Move to intercept it! It’s time that fool finally perishes!” Broodwing said, laughing.

“But sir, Colress ordered us to maintain our position.” a soldier reminded to Broodwing.

“Move to intercept it, now! I will not be denied the glory of this kill!” Broodwing replied greedily.

Broodwing’s ship begins to move out of position, heading towards the plane, as lasers are fired at it. Colress notices this from the main ship, as half of the plasma barrier begins to vanish.

“Broodwing, return to your assigned coordinates, immediately!” Colress demanded, looking annoyed.

“I’ve had enough of your games, Colress. I’ll be the one to take credit for this mission!” Broodwing replied defiantly and arrogantly.

“YOU IDIOT! You’re going to mess up our entire plan!” Edward yelled angrily.

“He always was more of a gangster than a soldier.” Morgana noted, sighing.

“What’s Ranen doing?” Jake asked to Audrey, seeing his plane above, as they keep fighting off the Slayers.

“I think he’s trying to draw that ship out of position.” Audrey noted, looking up, and sends a blue Slayer flying with a whirlwind. 

The plane gets closer to Broodwing’s ship, as he smiles.

“Pull the plane in, now!” Broodwing ordered to his soldiers, as they charge the generator in the ship.

Suddenly, the plane swerves the opposite way at the last second, heading right to the front of the ship.

“Sir, he's changing course!” a soldier frantically reported to Broodwing.

“WAIT, NO! TAKE EVASIVE ACTION!” Broodwing yelled, panicking, but it’s too late.

The plane collides right into Broodwing’s ship, causing a massive explosion, and splitting the ship in half. The heroes and soldiers see this from below, surprised. Half of the plasma barrier disappears, forming an entrance to escape. The explosion rocks Scrappertin’s ship, as Skipper looks worried.

“...Oh well, I never really liked him anyway. But now half the barrier is gone, that fool!” Edward said angrily.

“Jake and Audrey, now!” Ranen said on the communicator.

Jake and Audrey quickly go through the open entrance, appearing on the other side. They see the battle raging on.

“Let’s go to Elana, maybe she can send more soldiers.” Audrey said, as they head off.

“Sir, a knight and guardian escaped.” a soldier reported to Colress.

“Broodwing was careless. Let’s hope he did not undermine my efforts. Continue the attack, force them to ground.” Colress ordered, as Skipper looks annoyed.

“Commander, are you alright?” Zero asked Ranen.

“Better than whoever was in that ship...” Ranen said, looking at the remains of the explosion above.

The other ship maintaining the plasma cube lets out another pulse, as the destroyed part of the barrier seals back up. The heroes notice this.

“Back to square one...no pun intended. Still, that was a brave act, thanks a lot sir.” Nick said to Ranen.

"You're welcome, now we need to take out the other ship with the plasma generator." Ranen replied.

“Hopefully Jake and Audrey get useful help, because we really need it...” Madison said, sending a lightning blast at an orange Slayer.

Cynthia crushes a green Slayer with rocks, and Zero slices through a black one, finishing them off. The soldiers keep flying their planes around, attempting to strike down the ships. They fire laser attacks, but the Federation ships resist them. Another wooden plane is struck down, as it crashes to the ground. Ranen sees the planes doing badly.

“All remaining pilots...return to the ground immediately. This area is too tight.” Ranen said sadly to them through the communicator, as the planes do so. Colress and Edward smile at this.

At the pit, Grador sees multiple planes crashing down in the distance.

“You can feel it, can’t you? My friends are suffering.” Cameron said.

“That is the fate of all living things.” Grador replied.

“Not like this. Attacked and trapped by overwhelming evil. Help us survive Grador, please...help us fight!” Cameron begged.

“I will not fight your petty battle!” Grador declined.

Then you’d rather hide away, like a coward.” Cameron replied.

Grador angrily slams his front feet to the sandy ground, his wings fly open, and smoke blows out of his nose.

“I will not be called a coward by the likes of you, Cameron Rhodes!” Grador yelled angrily, with his eyes glowing, and sand violently blowing around the area.

The sand swirls around Grador, as his eyes continue to glow through it.

“Perhaps it’s the will of the magic that you all perish...and I serve the will of magic!” Grador yelled angrily, with lightning striking around the swirls, as he disappears in the sand storm.

“Grador? Grador!?” Cameron called out.

Sand violently blows around, and the rocks fly across the ground. Cameron covers the rest of his face, and heads back to the main site.

The Council and Meritel are still in Beast’s dimension, looking around for anything Ramos is hiding. Luna finds the Beast’s spell book under a rock.

“What’s this?” Luna asked, showing it to Ramos.

“It belonged to Beast, any other questions, officers!?” Ramos asked annoyed.

“That’s odd, it won’t budge...” Luna said, trying to open it, but the book is sealed shut.

“Take it back to the Sky Kingdom with us. We’ll examine it further there.” Cesare said.

“You’re coming with us. Don’t think about trying anything funny.” Luna threatened to Ramos.

Cesare used his psychic powers to levitate Ramos out of the ground.

“Wah, let me go!” Ramos panicked, still stuck in the rocks covering his lower half.

“Would you rather continue to rot here?” Luna asked.

“...Fine, but you better let me go afterwards!” Ramos demanded angrily, as he’s carried away, and enters the portal with the four.

Jake and Audrey enter the castle throne room, as they’re nearly out of breath.

“Elana, we need your help. The Neo Federation ambushed us at the Hidden Kingdom.” Jake revealed, shocking Elana and Orion.

“Oh my...” Orion said, terrified.

“I’ll help, but unfortunately, there’s a bit of a problem. Most of our remaining soldiers were sent to aid the Shadow Lands civilians, and they aren’t coming back in time.” Elana explained.

“I’m deeply sorry, we wouldn’t have sent so many soldiers if I knew this strike would happen! I can still lend you some of the soldiers that remain, but I don’t know if they’ll be enough...” Orion offered.

“Any amount will do.” Jake replied.

“Dad, you’re in charge of the castle while I’m gone.” Elana replied, rushing off with Jake and Audrey.

“I’m in charge, how delightful!” Orion replied happily, sitting on the throne. 

Jake, Audrey and Elana exit the castle with six soldiers.

“Only six?” Audrey asked, disappointed.

“They’re all I could get, sorry.” Elana replied.

“It’ll have to do. We could ask the past guardians and Gordon, but I don’t know if they’ll be enough...” Jake said.

“Where else can we find an army?” Audrey wondered, as Jake gets an idea.

“...I know where else we can find help, but I don’t know if you guys are going to like it...” Jake was saying.

“Uh oh...” Audrey said worried.

“...Red.” Jake finished regrettably, shocking Elana and Audrey.

To Be Continued...

________________

78. Operation: Darkest Hour (Part 2)

The heroes regroup inside a ruin building.

“Colress is preparing for bombardment. How’s the shield coming, Nick?” Ranen asked.

“Yup, this Prism Pillar has been set to form a magical shield. I hope it works...” Nick said, casting a green spell one of the pillars, charging it.

The Prism Pillar releases a green bubble around most of the kingdom, as it keeps glowing.

“Woohoo, it’s working!” Nick said.

“Cameron, get back here immediately. Colress is planning for bombardment.” Ranen said to him through the communicator.

“I’m moving as fast as I can!” Cameron replied, running.

“Run faster. Alright Colress, your move.” Ranen replied, looking at the ships above.

Colress looks out from the control room of Scrappertin’s ship.

“The barrier is secure, all ships are in position. The remaining planes fled down to the surface. They’re hiding under a silly magical shield.” Edward reported, as Skipper looks at him, still held by the Elite Soldiers.

“Good. Let’s test their power. All ships, fire at the base.” Colress ordered.

The eight ships move in closer, as they all go through the plasma barrier, now inside the box.

“We have incoming fire!” a soldier yelled, worrying the heroes.

They run out of the building, as many laser and missile blasts rain down from the ships. The magical shield protects them.

“It appears they’re trying to close us in, and then bombard us, just like Skorch did.” Zero recalled.

“Maybe we can sneak aboard their ships and destroy them like we did with Skorch’s?” Trent suggested.

“I don’t think that’s going to be easy this time...” Madison replied, as shots continue to rain down.

“Yeah, it doesn’t look like they’re taking prisoners!” Cynthia said worried.

“Where’s Cameron?” Nick asked worried.

“Cameron, find cover, now!” Ranen said to him on the communicator.

Cameron keeps running, hearing the incoming lasers. He avoids two, as they explode into the sandy ground. Another one explodes behind him, sending him flying. Inside the building, Nick checks on the Prism Pillar, as it glows red.

“It’s overheating!” Steele yelled, as the pillar starts to break apart and spark.

The missiles and lasers keep shooting down, as the shield’s barely able to keep taking them.

“They’ve had enough. Hold fire.” Colress ordered, as the ships ceasefire, and smoke rises off the ground.

“The shield is still holding on...barely.” Nick noted, as the green glow surrounds them. 

“Cameron, do you read?” Zero asked on his communicator.

“Yes. I get the feeling they’re actually trying to kill us this time.” Cameron replied, getting up.

The sand violently blows around him, and he hears storm clouds forming. He continues walking towards the main site. Outside the castle, Elana and Audrey are confused by Jake’s idea.

“Isn’t that Red guy a criminal? I get the feeling this might not be the best idea...” Elana said to Jake, confused.

“Yeah, no offense Jake, but how do you know he’ll help?” Audrey asked.

“Look, Red and I are...on okay terms, I guess. After I saved him from the shadow demon invasion, he said he owed me a favor if I ever needed it. I know where to find him, so it won’t take long.” Jake revealed.

“I guess we don’t exactly have another option at this point, and I doubt we can get in touch with the Undersea Force.” Audrey replied.

“Help them at the Hidden Kingdom.” Elana ordered to the soldiers, as they head off.

Elana opens a portal, as her, Jake and Audrey head inside. They appear in an alley, seeing Mafia Meals nearby.

“Good, we’re right here. He told me he’d hang out here if I ever wanted to see him again.” Jake explained.

Red is at the back of Mafia Meals, hanging out with his gang, as a radio blasts music. Some are spraying graffiti on the wall, others try doing skateboard tricks, and others look at valuables they stole. Jake, Audrey and Elana approach them, as Jake powers down. Red and his gang are surprised.

“Hola Jacob and chicas! What brings you to my domain?” Red inquired.

“That’s one of those mermaid girls, should we attack?” a blue thug asked.

“We’re not here to fight.” Elana promised.

“Is that so? Let them speak.” Red ordered to his men.

“Our base got ambushed by the Neo Federation. You might be our only chance for help.” Jake said.

“You want our help? We don’t even have magia powers!” Red replied, confused.

“I know, but these ships are magic resistant. A plasma barrier is preventing anybody from entering or leaving. Sometimes magic isn’t always the solution, especially against technology like this. I figured you might know how to disable it, if you know what the Federation does.” Jake explained.

“Not really, they’ve kept me in the dark on their goals, but oh well. I truly never cared for their grudge against the magical world. But don’t you have enough other aliados?” Red questioned.

“There’s not enough soldiers, and I don’t think they’ll be enough to destroy the ship. We took out one of the ships blocking us, but one more remains which is keeping the plasma barrier up. Without your help, our friends are trapped.” Jake pleaded. 

“Hmm...fine, we shall help!” Red decreed, confusing his henchmen.

“Are you sure about this?” a green thug asked.

“Si, I'm serious. Jacob helped save my life, and that is a debt worth repaying, especially in an unfair fight. However, the next time our paths cross, I cannot guarantee I’ll be on your side.” Red replied.

“I’ll take what I can get.” Jake replied, as Elana and Audrey shrug in acceptance. 

“I promise, I will not backstab you...this time. You saved me, so I’ll help save you to return the favor, amigo.” Red said to Jake.

“I don’t know if we’re tough enough to go against the Federation...” an orange thug said concerned and unsure.

“Wouldn’t they hunt us down if they learn about our aid?” a yellow thug asked.

“Meh, I don’t care. Don’t worry, we can handle them. All we need to do is get on board and destroy it. We’ve got a few surprises up our sleeves for these enviars!” Red promised.

“I’ve been tired of those Federation fools thinking they’re top dog, so let’s do it!” a yellow thug said enthusiastically. 

“Glad we’re on the same page. We don’t have to be friends, but I figured even you would know when a fight is unfair.” Jake replied.

Van Gordon is flying in his jet-pack, and notices the heroes down below, gasping. He hovers down, greeting them.

“Comrades, is everythings okay?” Van Gordon asked them.

“No, our base got ambushed, but we’d appreciate it if you helped us.” Jake explained, surprising Gordon.

“I will, I gots nothing better to do.” Van Gordon replied, saluting.

“Should we get Valina and the other past guardians?” Audrey suggested.

“There's not enough time, and I’m not sure if even their magical powers will be enough to break through that ship. Let’s go.” Jake said, as they all head through back Elana’s portal, with the thugs cheering.

As the ships hover outside the cube, Colress looks down at the base.

“Edward, you're in command of this ship while I lead the ground assault.” Colress ordered.

“Finally, we get some action.” Morgana said.

Skipper then laughs.

“Does the plight of your friends amuse you?” Colress inquired.

“You may have had the upper hand when it came to the sky, but the ground is their element. I’ve been in your position before, and they always find a way to get victory. Also, leaving the old man in charge of this technological ship is amusing.” Skipper said, as Edward angrily looks at him.

“You and I are nothing alike, Skipper, as they’re about to learn.” Colress replied.

He walks off with Brak, Vexacus, Morgana, Thorn, and the Elite Soldiers. Two normal soldiers walk up and guard Skipper.

The heroes are under the shield, planning their next move.

“Welp, there’s good news and bad news. The good news is, we survived. The bad news is, the shield took a major beatdown, and I don’t think it can survive another wave...” Nick explained.

“Yeah, I don’t think this shield is going to take another attack...” Cynthia said, seeing the pillar breaking apart.

“We may not have to. Colress was trying to soften us up, he’s likely preparing to strike us on the ground now with no way out.” Ranen replied.

“I predict they’ll start the ground assault from here. I’ll adjust the trajectory of the plasma cannons.” Zero theorized, pinpointing a spot with his hologram map.

“Cynthia, Zero, Trent, Flinn, and Steele, I want you to aid in stopping the assault. Use the defense system and your powers to slow them down.” Ranen ordered.

“Yes sir!” Trent saluted, as they head off with soldiers.

They are seen hiding behind a rock. Ultra Slayers, Invisi-Slayers, and normal soldiers are beamed down, marching towards the shield. The soldiers have anti-magic plasma guns. Cynthia makes the ground rise up, blocking their path. The Ultra Slayers obliterate their way through the walls, but Cynthia sends a large boulder smashing down on one, as the Invisi-Slayers turn invisible, and begin firing lasers. Flinn and Steele deflect them, while also avoiding shots from the soldiers. Zero activates his plasma cannons, as blasts are fired at the Slayers and soldiers, knocking them back. An Ultra Slayer tries to move forward, but Steele presses a detonator, activating hidden explosives, making it fall. A plasma cannon blows off its head. Flinn sends golden slashes at two soldiers, knocking them away, and avoids their plasma blasts. An Invisi-Slayer approaches Zero, but he sees it with his visor. He slices right through it with his electric sword. Steele slashes right through an Ultra Slayer, as Cynthia levitates it, sending it landing on several soldiers who fire their plasma blasts at her. One Ultra Slayer remains, as it powers up a plasma beam.

“Left one for you, Nick.” Steele said to him.

Nick casts a bagel spell on the Ultra Slayer’s arm, confusing it, as bagels fall to the ground. Nick uses his stone to jump up, and slash at its head. It falls on top of two soldiers, and smokes. Nick jumps off, and picks up a bagel from the ground, regrouping with them.

“Don’t eat that, lad.” Flinn said to Nick, knocking the bagel out of his hand.

“Aw.” Nick sighed.

“Hey, we did it!” Cynthia said impressed, seeing no Slayers left, and the soldiers knocked out.

“Yes, but that was likely only the first wave...” Zero said.

The sandstorm keeps blowing around them, as the clouds get darker, with thunder rumbling.

“I didn’t know the Karmanian weather called for a storm today...or whatever you have to tell weather.” Nick pondered.

“It didn’t...” Steele replied curiously.

Colress, Brak, Vexacus, Thorn, Morgana and several more Elite Soldiers are beamed down to the ground.

“Bah, this sand is annoying!” Vexacus said, covering his face from the storm.

“Shut up and get used to it!” Morgana replied, as Thorn and her transform into their beast forms.

Colress wears his cybernetic armor, with the metal helmet revealing his face. Colress looks through advanced binoculars, seeing the first wave is defeated.

“They’ve revealed their meager defenses. Now we’ll crush them. Mark their mines and cannons. Ships six through nine, attack.” Colress ordered.

“Uh oh.” Flinn said, seeing the four ships fly down, releasing Slayer balls.

They head back inside of the shield, firing attacks at the ships, who are able to avoid and resist. The royal soldiers fire their laser guns at the ships, but they take the hits dead on, and fly through the shield along with several Slayers.

“Next time we have a shield with these pillar thingies, make it so the enemy can’t go through them!” Cynthia said.

Cameron runs, jumps, and powers his sword. He slashes it through an Ultra Slayer, making it fall. Two soldiers fire their plasma guns, but he knocks both down. He meets up with the group, who are running back to the main site. 

“Cameron, glad you could join us! Ranen said you were bringing help?” Flinn inquired.

“Maybe, maybe not!” Cameron replied, as he runs with them, avoiding blasts.

Cameron stops for a moment, as he hears the storm clouds keep forming, and the sand violently blowing around. Colress and his crew make their way closer toward the shield, as the Elite Soldiers point their guns around, guiding them. 

“Remaining ships on the outside, hold your position. Deploy ground soldiers, and storm the base. If any of the rebel planes attempt to flee, shoot them down. Capture the guardians and knights if possible.” Colress ordered through a communicator.

The ships beam down more soldiers and Slayers, as they approach the base. The ships rain down blasts as they fly around, with some blasts destroying the catapults and other supplies. The plasma cannons fire back at them, but they're too fast.

The other group runs along a path, trying to make their way back. Cameron walks ahead, but from another path, an Elite Soldier fires at him. 

“The other way, the other way!” Cameron yells to them, deflecting a shot from an Elite Soldier with his sword. 

Nick runs by and sends a magic blast at the Elite Soldier, who flies up with a jet-pack, avoiding it.

“Whoa, never seen those types of soldiers before! They look kind of cool, even if evil!” Nick said, avoiding more laser blasts from the soldier.

“Keep moving!” Cynthia yelled, as they run along the path.

The soldier keeps flying after them, but Cynthia quickly hurls a boulder, knocking them away. They make it back to the main site, as Tori, Madison, Trent and Ranen fight Slayers.

“Do you think your elemental forms could destroy those ships?” Trent suggested to the girls, sending laser arrows at a green Slayer, destroying it.

“We can try, but I can’t say for certain our powers will be able to defeat them if our basic ones couldn’t.” Madison said.

They enter their elemental forms, and attack. Madison sends a powerful lightning blast at a ship, slightly damaging it, but its shields are able to resist the attack, as it flies by, shooting lasers at their base. Cynthia sends boulders flying at a ship, barely scratching it. Tori sends a powerful whirlpool blast at one, but barely withstands it. They fire elemental attacks at several Slayers, vaporizing them. They exit their forms and fly back down.

"Not even our elemental forms can wreck them..." Cynthia sighed.

"You fools are trapped." Brak said, as him, Vexacus, Thorn and Morgana appear, attacking the heroes and other soldiers.

Tori sends a water blast, colliding with Thorn’s poison attack. Madison sends a lightning blast at Morgana, who crawls around a ruin building. Cynthia sends rocks hurling at Morgana, breaking through her web shots. Trent fires laser arrows at Brak, who counters with orange blasts. A plasma blast hits Brak, but his armor takes it. Nick sends magic blasts at Thorn, who avoids them. Cameron strikes through an orange Slayer. Flinn sends golden slashes at Vexacus, clashing swords.

"If only Audrey was here, remember when Mai said our powers are weaker when divided?" Madison recalled, sending lightning at Thorn.

"Oh yeah, I hope they get help really soon!" Cynthia replied, rising up rocks around Vexacus, who smashes through them.

Zero clashes his sword against Brak's staff. Steele slashes right through an orange Slayer, as Nick and him head inside ruin building during the fighting, activating another Prism Pillar.

“Get ready dudes, this is going to send a powerful blast!” Nick warned.

As the enemies attack, the heroes quickly get out of the way. The pillar unleashes a powerful magic blast, as the pillar collapses into ash. Vexacus, Brak, Thorn and Morgana are sent flying with several soldiers, and the Slayers in the area are vaporized. 

“We only have one Prism Pillar left, let’s use it wisely. Any remaining planes, get out of here!” Ranen ordered through a communicator.

Planes take off, fighting the ships once more. Vexacus gets up, throwing an explosive at them, but Cynthia rises up the ground, blocking it. The enemies keep attacking, as Cameron clashes his sword against Brak’s staff. Thorn sends another acidic blast, but Madison blasts her away with an electricity ball. Tori sends Morgana slamming against a ruin building with a whirlpool blast, as Ranen uses a sword against Vexacus, who turns invisible. Ranen senses him, and clashes the sword when he reappears.

Jake, Audrey, Elana, Van Gordon, and Red’s gang approach the kingdom, seeing the battle raging, as Jake powers back up.

"Such chaos!" Red said, as the six soldiers approach them.

“We’ve had no luck getting in, sorry majesty. If only there was a way for us to get up on the ship...” a soldier reported to Elana.

“Audrey and Gordon, you know what to do.” Jake replied.

“Always, I’m here to help!” Van Gordon replied, grabbing Jake and Elana, flying up with them.

“How’ll we get up there-WAAH!” a blue thug was asking, when Audrey lifts up Red’s crew and the soldiers in a whirlwind.

“Edward, we have intruders approaching!” a soldier reported.

“Rebel reinforcements?” Edward asked. 

“I see Queen Elana, her soldiers, a guardian, a knight, some weird guy, and a bunch of colored bandits.” the soldier reported, as Edward sees this on the monitor.

“That’s the infamous bandit Red, why’s he helping them!? No matter, he’ll fall with them. Send the remaining ships to intercept and destroy them!” Edward ordered.

Audrey sends Red’s gang and the soldiers flying onto the ship.

“WOOHOO!” one of Red’s men cheered, as they land.

“Let’s do that again!” a green thug said.

“What was that?” the pilot asked, hearing them land.

Suddenly, two ships fly to Audrey, firing lasers at her. She turns invisible, confusing the pilots. She sneakily flies toward the ship with Jake, Elana, and Van Gordon, who land as well.

Meritel, the Council and Ramos are outside the temple. Luna, Briar and Cesare concentrate their magic on Beast’s spell book, trying to open it, while Ramos remains trapped in the rocks. 

“What exactly do you plan to do after this?” Meritel questioned.

“I guess try to conquer Karmania again to show my family I’m not worthless.” Ramos replied, annoying Meritel.

“I don’t know how your family is, but...they might be worried about you. And...I am too.” Meritel sighed, feeling somewhat bad.

“Ha, they’re not worried about me, and I’m not worried about me either! I lost my rule over Posidonia, multiple armies, and my allies, but I’m still standing, baby!” Ramos bragged.

“For how much longer? Ramos, you don’t look well. Maybe we can help you...” Meritel replied.

“I just want to have power again...” Ramos sighed, as the Council keeps trying to open the book.

“This’ll take a while.” Briar said.

They walk to where Meritel and Ramos are, seeing she is knocked out on the ground, as Ramos doesn’t look at them.

“...Ramos?” Luna asked.

Beast laughs, as both of Ramos’s arms turn purple, with one of his middle fingers missing. On his left hand palm, the green gemstone reforms itself, while the blue gemstone reforms itself on the right hand palm.

“Ramos is not here right now, but feel free to leave a message.” Beast replied in his body, with his eyes glowing purple.

Cesare, Luna and Briar immediately attack him. He knocks Luna to the ground, and tries absorbing her energy, but Briar sends rocks flying at him. Cesare kneels, using his psychic powers to give Luna her energy back, as she gets up. Briar sends more rocks at Beast, who blasts through them with a lightning attack from the blue gemstone, knocking Briar unconscious. Cesare sends a psychic blast at Beast, and gives Briar her energy back.

“Sir, you can’t keep doing that...” Briar said, helping him up, as he feels tired.

“I know...but I can’t let you perish!” Cesare replied, sending another psychic blast at Beast.

Luna turns invisible, and sends multiple purple magic blasts to Beast, but he counters them with green blasts and elemental blasts from the gemstone. Luna makes clones of herself, as they all attack Beast at once. Beast releases a powerful green blast, knocking all of the Lunas, Briar and Cesare away, as they land across the ground. He continues to absorb their energy with the blue gemstone. Cesare coughs, as he crawls toward Meritel’s unconscious body. He touches her hand with his last bit of psychic energy, as it revives her. Meritel gets up, seeing Cesare weakened. He smiles at her, and crumbles to dust.

“Cesare, no...” Meritel said, saddened.

“Hello Meritel.” Beast greeted, showing his severed middle finger, shocking her.

“...Beast.” Meritel gasped, shooting light blasts at him, but he counters with green blasts.

Meritel glows yellow, and sends a light blast at Beast, who floats out of the way, and it explodes into a pillar. Beast powers up the green stone, and sends a green blast shooting around, as Merital runs. She sends more light blasts, as Beast blocks them a magical shield from the blue gemstone, and sends the blasts back at Meritel, who avoids them all. Meritel goes flying across the ground, as it cracks around her. She gets up, and sends a powerful light blast, making the temple explode. Multiple rocks fall down on Beast, as Meritel looks around. Meritel quickly scoops Cesare’s ashes into a bag. She carries the unconscious bodies of Luna and Briar with her, taking them through a portal. Beast shoots a green blast, destroying the rocks, as he floats up. Meritel sends another light blast, knocking down pillars around him.

“Tell Elana...I want my finger.” Beast said ominously, as the temple collapses around them. Meritel exits through the portal.

Beast grabs his spell book, and floats off into the temple remains. He finds the room containing the guardian powers, as the orbs float around. Beast exhales a dark essence out of Ramos’s mouth into the fountain, as the liquid and orbs turn purple.

At the Hidden Kingdom, the heroes keep fighting off the enemies.

“Cameron, what happened with your friend?” Madison asked, sending a lightning blast at Brak.

“Oh, don’t worry, he’s coming!” Cameron replied, deflecting a poison blast with his shield to Thorn.

“Guys, do you read?” Jake asked through Ranen’s communicator, surprising them.

“Jake and Audrey, you made it!” Madison said relieved.

“Yes, and we brought help. We’re taking out the ship.” Jake replied.

“Okay, let’s get moving!” Cameron said to everyone, deflecting a laser blast from an Elite Soldier.

In a building, Vexacus slashes at the remains of the Prism Pillar with his sword, and two soldiers fire at it, making it explode. The green shield around the base begins to fade.

“There goes the shield...” Flinn sighed, as they run.

A mechanical plane is shot down by several ships, as it crashes down, exploding in front of the heroes. Suddenly, Elite Soldiers, Vexacus, Brak, Thorn and Morgana surround them. Out of the smoke, Colress approaches them, holding his laser gun.

“Now Commander Ranen, I shall accept your formal surrender, or you will watch your allies fall.” Colress threatened.

The heroes stand their ground, ready to strike.

“I require an answer, commander.” Colress said to him.

“You already know mine.” Ranen replied.

“And the rest of ours.” Madison added.

“Come on guy, why did you go evil? I thought you wanted to learn the secrets of the ocean or whatever. What happened to the cool teacher from a few months ago?” Cynthia questioned.

“I’ll still learn those secrets, and you can all be helpful keys to unlocking them. However, I’m doing what is for the best of Posidonia. I don’t want to hurt any of you, but if you make this any more difficult than needed...” Colress replied.

“A little too late for that.” Tori replied annoyed.

Cameron holds his sword, looking up at the storm clouds, as lightning keeps striking, and sand blows violently around.

“Do you fear the storm, knight?” Colress asked him.

“Yeah, and you should too!” Cameron replied, as lightning strikes in the sky.

Colress walks closer to them, but another lightning blast strikes behind him. He turns around, as the storm clouds begin to move oddly.

“What magic devilry is this?” Colress asked curiously, looking at the sky.

“Trust me dude, we’re as confused as you are...I think, are we?” Nick replied confused.

“Hang on tight!” Cameron warned, as the sand keeps violently blowing around.

Grador’s glowing eyes form in the storm cloud.

“I am Grador.” Grador spoke across the kingdom, confusing everyone.

“...What is that?” Tori asked, looking up.

“...Uh, Cameron?” Cynthia asked.

“I told you my friend was coming!” Cameron replied.

“I BRING DEATH!” Grador yelled.

Two powerful lightning blasts strike down two of the Federation ships, overloading their engines.

“MY SHIELD CAN’T TAKE IT!-” a soldier yelled, as both ships explode.

Two planes are also struck down by lightning, exploding, as the blasts strike down across the kingdom. Two docked planes explode due to the blasts, startling everyone around.

“Is this their doing!?” Thorn asked.

“Cowards, no storm scares me!” Vexacus growled.

He’s about to attack them, but another blast strikes down near him. Colress backs away with the Elite Soldiers. As the enemies keep attacking, the heroes run the opposite way, heading to The Guardian with multiple soldiers. Brak sends orange blasts at them, and Morgana fires web blasts, but ruins fall down in their path. 

“Cease attack, let them go. We’ll see if they survive the storm.” Colress said to his allies, as he looks at Grador in the sky.

Lightning blasts keep striking everywhere in the sandstorm. One hits an Elite Soldier, knocking him away.

“Leave my kingdom.” Grador ordered to everyone.

“You heard him!” Cameron said, as they run.

An Elite Soldier fires at the storm cloud, protecting Colress. A lightning blast hits the ruin building containing the ancient beast prisoners, exploding it open. The ancient prisoners are released from their cells, as they run out, attacking royal and Neo Federation soldiers. More lightning blasts strike down, as the prisoners run away.

“Oh no, they’re free!” Madison panicked.

“Maybe we should’ve moved them to Mt. Spire...” Steele questioned.

“There’s not enough room.” Zero replied.

“Forget about them, we have to go! Get to The Guardian, and take the remaining Prism Pillar.” Ranen ordered, as they keep running, bracing the storm.

The heroes understand, as they make their way to the blimp, while the prisoners run off into the kingdom plains, avoiding more blasts from the ships and lightning. Meanwhile, Jake’s group keeps attacking the ship.

“Mr. Edward, those intruders have boarded the ship containing the plasma cube.” a soldier reported.

“Well get them off!” Edward replied angrily.

They run across the ship, attacking approaching enemies. Van Gordon fires his laser gun at a green Slayer, destroying it. Two soldiers open a hatch, get out and attack, but the royal soldiers knock them off.

“Incoming!” Jake yelled, as Elite Soldiers fly towards them in their jet-packs, shooting laser blasts.

Red slashes his blade knife at a green Slayer, knocking them off. Jake’s red shield is formed, protecting himself from an Elite Soldier’s blasts. A green Slayer flies at him, but Jake slices it in half, sending it flying off. The pilot gets out, and tries to shoot them, but Audrey knocks him off. One of Red’s thugs sends a paint bomb at an Elite Soldier’s visor, blinding them, and Audrey sends a wind blast, knocking them down. 

“Jake, is that ship’s plasma generator disabled yet?” Ranen asked on the communicator.

“Working on it!” Jake replied, as they keep fighting.

The heroes make it to The Guardian, as several planes fly away, and attack the remaining ships. They see Audrey’s unique painting of the heroes and Karmania on the blimp.

“Wow, Audrey’s design turned out cool.” Madison said impressed, as they quickly get inside.

Steele and Nick carry the last Prism Pillar on board. They enter the main lounge, which is a large wooden room. There’s furniture, supplies, and food inside of it, along with a map of Karmania.

“This turned out nice, now let's get out of here!” Cynthia said.

Two soldiers are in the command room piloting the blimp. It flies off, as several planes follow. A ship tries to strike it down, but a laser cannon is fired from a soldier on the blimp, making the ship explode.

“Cameron Rhodes, Karmanian Knight!” Grador yelled, as a lightning blast strikes The Guardian, making it slightly fall, but keeps going.

“That’s your friend?” Tori asked.

“...Eh, I might’ve made him angry.” Cameron replied.

Colress and his gang keep avoiding lightning blasts, trying to deal with Grador.

“Leave this kingdom.” Grador demanded.

“I don’t feel like it.” Morgana replied smugly to him, but another lightning blast strikes nearby, and she jumps. “...Maybe we should listen.”

“Concentrate fire on the center of the storm!” Colress ordered, as the ships and Elite Soldiers fire at Grador in the sky.

Another lightning blast strikes a plane, sending it crashing to the ground. After taking enough hits, Grador roars. The storm fades, along with the sandstorm on the ground. Grador falls out of the sky, as Colress looks at him.

At Jake’s group, Red sends multiple explosives at Slayers, knocking them out of the sky. Several of Red’s henchmen attack the ship along with the soldiers. Another ship flies around, firing lasers at them, but Audrey sends a powerful tornado gust, trapping the ship. Red then sends more explosives at the ship, destroying it.

“Nice job!” Jake said, surprised, as he deflects an Elite Soldier’s blast.

“No problem, amigo!” Red replied, as he throws several more explosives down the ship.

Van Gordon fires his gun at an Elite Soldier’s jet-pack, making it explode. They arrive at the end, and attack at the plasma generator on the ship’s end. Red’s explosives detonate, damaging the ship, and exposing the generator.

“Fire at that!” Jake ordered.

Several Elite Soldiers land, trying to stop them, but Audrey blows them off the ship. Elana, Audrey, Jake, Van Gordon, Red’s gang and the soldiers attack the generator at once. It begins to overheat, as they get off. It explodes, knocking two Elite Soldiers out of the sky, as the plasma barrier around the kingdom disappears. They all safely land on the ground thanks to Audrey’s whirlwind. 

“Thank you all for helping.” Jake said.

“De nada. See you another day, amigo.” Red said, as Elana opens a portal, as Red’s gang all go through it. 

“I guess even thugs like him have hearts of gold.” Audrey said, impressed, as it closes.

“Sir, we have a problem!” the soldier reported to Edward.

“I DON’T WANT TO HEAR IT! Stop them, somehow!” Edward replied angrily.

“Heh, Colress is not going to be happy when he sees the mess you made of these ships, eh Ed?” Skipper taunted to Edward, as he angrily turns around.

“...Throw this traitor out of the ship, NOW!” Edward ordered angrily.

The two soldiers grab Skipper, as they walk away with him.

“I hope you enjoy hitting the ground.” Edward said smugly, as the soldiers take him down the hall.

Skipper smiles smugly as the door closes behind.

“We took out the ship, you’re clear to leave!” Jake reported to the heroes in the blimp’s communicator.

“That’s the first good news we’ve had today!” Madison said, relieved.

At Scrappertin’s ship, the door to the main room opens, as Skipper walks out. The two soldiers fall knocked out to the ground, as he unlocks his handcuffs. He enters the scavenger pod room, and gets into one. It exits the ship, as he pilots it, flying it towards The Guardian fleeing with the remaining planes.

Edward looks annoyed as the heroes get away, heading towards the Central Karmania castle. The two other ships that remain try to intercept them, but projectiles from The Guardian are fired at them, as they fall back. 

“The remaining rebels have escaped-” a soldier was reporting to Edward.

The soldier is then shown being thrown out of the ship, yelling.

Jake, Elana, Van Gordon and Audrey wave to the blimp below, as Madison sees them.

“There they are!” Madison said, as the blimp lowers down, and they board.

“Thank you for your help.” Ranen said to them, as Jake and Audrey smile at each other.

“Red also aided us. I know what you’re thinking, but we're even now.” Jake explained, confusing the heroes.

“I’m normally not a fan of you working with shady people like Branton and Red, but I guess if it saves our lives, keep it up!” Cameron replied.

The heroes get a signal in the blimp.

“If you see an odd pod, grab it.” Skipper spoke in the communicator.

“It’s from Skipper!” Cameron said.

They look out the window, and move the blimp toward Skipper’s pod. From the bottom of the blimp, a hatch is opened, and a claw grabs Skipper’s pod, taking it in.

“Got him!” Trent said.

Colress and the Elite Soldiers arrive at Grador’s crash site, looking around. Colress sees Grador injured on the sand ground, looking him directly in the face.

“What sort of magical creature are you?” Colress asked curiously.

“One beyond your power to comprehend...” Grador replied.

“It would appear not.” Colress replied, aiming his laser gun.

“You cannot see, but I can...” Grador replied ominously.

“What, what do you see?” Colress asked curiously.

“I see your defeat. Many arms surround you in a bitter embrace...” Grador spoke ominously.

Colress fires his laser gun. However, Grador has disappeared from the area, as the blast hits the ground. His ominous laugh is heard in the air, as the Elite Soldiers look around, pointing their guns. Colress looks unnerved and slightly concerned. They head back to the main site, as a soldier approaches Colress.

“Should we attack the castle?” a soldier asked him.

“I don’t think further attacking is wise at the moment, considering we lost seven of our ships.” Brak pointed out.

“Brak’s correct, let’s wait before attempting another large scale attack. My goal was to deplete their closest base, which succeeded. Fall back to Posidonia.” Colress ordered, as they get back into Scrappertin’s ship. The remaining three ships fly back to the portal they entered.

Cameron walks into a storage room, as many of the soldiers look depressed. He approaches Skipper.

“Cameron...thank you for taking me in.” Skipper said to him.

“Thank you for risking...everything.” Cameron replied to him, as Skipper smiles.

Cameron enters the lounge, seeing Jake on a couch who looks exhausted. 

“You, Audrey and Elana really saved the day.” Cameron said to Jake.

“But we lost everything...” Jake replied sadly.

“Not quite. I understand you feel defeated, but I’ve learned to see things differently. We still have the kingdom and some planes. We’ll just have to keep fighting to truly end the Federation.” Cameron encouraged to Jake.

“On the brighter side of this event, I gathered data from one of the crashed ships. It may be useful in helping us counter them in the future.” Zero explained.

...

The prisoner beasts wander around the remains of the Hidden Kingdom together.

“Hello gentlemen.” Beast said in Ramos’s body, approaching them.

“Who are you?” a magma beast asked.

“A friend. I know you all must be desperate for power after being locked underground for so long, and then in this formally invisible kingdom. I can help you reclaim your glory. You could all join my army.” Beast offered to the prisoners.

“I dunno, who even are you?” an anglerfish creature asked.

“Call me...Beast.” Beast greeted, shocking them.

“I’ve heard of him before, he was the great beast leader back in the day...” a gelatin creature recalled.

Beast sends blue and green magic blasts from his gemstones, breaking off the prisoner’s chains and restraints.

“Thank you, immortal one. I feel my power again!” a stone beast said.

Grador walks around the Hidden Kingdom plains, looking at debris of many ships and ruins around. Smoke rises off the ground. 

“Look at what has become of you...” Beast said, approaching Grador with the prisoner beasts.

“What's that ugly thing?” the stone beast asked.

“...You. How did you find me?” Grador asked, seeing Ramos’s purple eyes.

“I waited it out, and they led me to you. So the once great wizard turned himself into a rock dragon, rotting in this desert. How pathetic. I wonder if it’s just worse to leave you here...” Beast said, taunting him.

“I’ll never work with you again if that’s what your game is, I regret everything I had to do with you. I’ve become neutr-” Grador was saying, about to attack, but Beast shoots a green blast right at Grador from his palm, knocking him to the ground.

Beast smiles, and enchants a dark spell onto Grador. His eyes glow purple like Beast’s, as he rises up.

“...I'm at your command, master.” Grador said possessed to him, unfolding his wings.

“Good. Gentlemen, hop onboard. We’re going to distant lands.” Beast said to the ancient prisoners.

They cheer, as Beast gets on Grador’s back with the beasts. Grador flies off, taking them away. Outside the castle, Meritel sees Grador fly by, and notices Beast on him with the prisoners, shocking her. The Guardian lands outside the castle, as the heroes get out.

“Thank goodness you’re here. I'm sorry for your losses, but I'm glad to see you all are safe. However, you’re all in grave danger. Beast has escaped his dimension, and he’s more powerful than ever. Elana, you and your friends must help me chase him.” Meritel revealed, shocking them.

“Can this day get any worse?” Cynthia sighed.

“How’d he escape?” Audrey asked.

“He possessed Ramos, and overpowered us. I saw him fly away on some dragon with other beasts. He’s likely going to attempt what he did before, unite every beast from faraway kingdoms for his army. I don’t know what else he's up to, but we must stop him. We can use your fancy flying contraption to hunt him, since it would take too long on foot.” Meritel explained, as the heroes nod. Cameron is slightly concerned after hearing "dragon".

“I’ve always wanted to see more kingdoms.” Trent replied.

“Good thing we finished this blimp in time.” Tori replied.

"I presume the other beasts you saw him with were the prisoners from our base." Zero theorized.

“But what about the Neo Federation? They kind of beat us, and might attack your kingdom...” Madison pointed out.

“They may have depleted a lot of our resources, but they also lost quite a few of their own. They wouldn’t dare attack right now.” Ranen replied.

“Wait, can’t we just have the Council teleport us to the faraway kingdoms?” Cynthia questioned.

“That’s not going to happen anytime soon. Beast drained their energy, and left the temple in horrible shape.” Meritel said, startling them.

“Oh no, is Luna okay!? And Briar and Cesare too, not that I forgot them?” Nick asked.

“Luna and Briar will be fine, but they’re out cold for now.” Meritel replied.

“Oh, whew, that would’ve really broke my heart if something happened to Luna.” Nick replied.

“Will Cesare be okay?” Audrey asked.

“...He’ll be fine as well.” Meritel replied hesitantly. 

“We can’t all go on this journey, we need some to stay behind so this place has protection while we’re kingdom hopping.” Elana said.

"I'll stay, I need to aid the army. Good luck everyone." Ranen replied.

“I’ll also stay behind, lass, just so there's one knight, provided when me job isn't in the way. But if ye ever need me help at a kingdom, let me know.” Flinn offered.

“I’ll stay too.” Van Gordon replied, saluting.

“As will I! Good luck on your journey, brave ones!” Steele replied.

“If anything happens, we’ll teleport back anytime.” Madison promised to them.

“Elana and I are going with the guardians to hunt down Beast. I’m leaving you in charge while we’re gone. Take care.” Meritel said to Orion, who is relaxing on the throne.

“Alright honey, just be careful!” Orion replied.

The Guardian takes off, while the heroes are inside the main lounge. 

“Ooh, this has a coffee machine, nice.” Nick said, getting some.

The blimp makes its way past Central Karmania, as unknown territories approach.

“We’re coming for you, Beast.” Jake said, looking out the window.

Notes/Trivia:

-Character Debuts: Elite Federation Soldiers

-Jake and Audrey officially become a couple, making them the second guardian/knight pair.

-Fourth and fifth times Van Gordon appears in Season 3, who is now spying on the Federation in his spare time for the heroes.

-Seventh time Elemental forms are used.

-Talking Tree makes another cameo.

-The raid on the Academy from “An Inside Man” is mentioned, revealing it gave them locations of every Federation facility in Posidonia.

-Zero and Trent’s defense system that was installed in “Out of Sight” is finally used.

-Second time Red appears in Season 3, who is on okay terms with Jake after “Shadow Over Posidonia”.

-The heroes use two of their three Prism Pillars (from "Just One Mistake"), and take the remaining one away with them.

-The Hidden Kingdom was also known as “Terralar”. 

-The way the Neo Federation traps the heroes and tries to blast them with their ships is similar to what Skorch did in “Skorch Strikes”. 

-The plasma barriers used to surround the kingdom are the same kind as the plasma cubes the Ultra Slayers use.

-Mafia Meals (from “Mermaid Team Go!”) reappears.

-Colress wears his cybernetic armor from “I Hate Rotwell” again.

-Madison references how their powers are weakened when divided, as said in "Crawlies".

-

 

Broodwing and Cesare are both killed off for real.

 

-

 

Skipper joins the heroes.

 

-

 

Beast/Ramos returns to Karmania, uniting with the released prisoner beasts. The heroes (along with Meritel, Elana, and Skipper) chase after them, while Flinn (although he hasn't been put on a bus, he can still join them when he wants) stays behind with Ranen, Van Gordon and Steele.

 

-

 

It is implied Grador was the wizard who made the Hidden Kingdom invisible. He also aided Beast a long time ago, and was likely the ally who taught him the dark spells.

 

That’s a wrap for Season 3. I think this tied together the season nicely if I do say so myself. I’m excited for Season 4. Stay tuned this winter (aka early 2018) for it.

[SpongeOddFan]

If I have to choose what's best to describe to entire season finale of Mystic Guradiian, this would be. this episode opens up very interesting with Contress wearing something that's cool, for the main villain who had been hiding against the heroes and knight has his dealing with with his plan carefully since 2nd half of this season. He has one of interesting villain i had to witnessed can go as far he tried to destory rebal's base. The Gurardians and knight trying to protect as best as they could. Some parts are lost, some part they won. In the end, they manged everything they got. Skipper for once is my favorite minor character he was once antiogist into protagonist. Cameron saved Skipper as what would change his character devlopment which I liked about it. I also knew Baddwing betrayed of Contress at the last minute.  Jake reunited Red after they part ways since last time they met which did helped them to team up.

While all the actions are wonderful, as Beast has return to real world which destorys the Council place, asbording their power which sad to see Cesare was killed off, but he did saves Meritel before he dies in sub-plot, so now their main mission to find Beast once for all. Also  i wonder how Diggy, Ramos, and Red will react to Broodwing's death...

All in All, This was surely one hell of fight, one of the best season finale I've read, and this entire episode describe in one simple word:

wow

[Metal Snake]

Another stellar season finale, loved the battle between the heroes and the Federation, it reminded me of something out of Star Wars. I started getting really grabbed by it after the part where Skipper got caught, and then we had Broodwing dying (if he was a gangster, he went out like The Notorious Broodwing. I. G.), and then Red coming in as the unlikely ally when all the stuff hits the fan (and I still <3 his Hispanic voice). I also weirdly feel sorry for Ramos now, trying so hard to please people who are going to hate him no matter what he does. XD Also can't believe Grador went totally nuts like that, makes me love that twist of him originally serving Beast even more. What is Cameron going to say. >:)

Pretty good season, I think (heh, I used the same line that I stole from terminoob twice). I also think that Season 4 is going to be even better.

Edited November 5, 2017 by Metal Snake

[TJ]

I just have to say it... stellar, stellar finale. I mean, this managed to really blow the previous two finales totally out of the water. The scale of the threat, the battle which managed to pull in multiple factions of the MG universe, and the game changing ending that promises more to come. I loved it to pieces. I need S4 like right now, cause if this season was any indication, every new saga of this show manages to take things one step bigger, bolder, and better. 

[Jjs Goodman]

Season 4 activate!

79. Escape from the Citadel

The heroes are in The Guardian, looking out at the unexplored territories approaching them.

“Good thing this blimp has air conditioning.” Tori said, feeling a breeze from the AC.

“I wonder what we’ll see in these kingdoms...” Madison pondered.

“Hopefully nothing like the creepy Shadow Lands.” Cynthia replied.

“I want to see a beautiful paradise. Maybe we can revisit that tropical island kingdom sometime.” Tori suggested.

“How many kingdoms even are there?” Trent asked.

“There’s thirty kingdoms in Karmania, not counting the Hidden Kingdom.” Zero noted.

“Well it’s not so hidden now...or even really a kingdom anymore.” Nick replied awkwardly, sipping some coffee.

“I feel terrible the army doesn’t have a base anymore...” Audrey said sadly.

“I as well, but I know we’ll move on. We can still fight off our enemies without a base.” Meritel encouraged.

“Yes. As Ranen once taught me, defeat can make you a stronger warrior.” Cameron replied.

“I just hope Central Karmania is safe while we’re kingdom hopping.” Elana said.

“Flinn contacted me earlier and said it looked safe for now, no sign of the Neo Federation. Gordon and him are able to teleport between worlds with magic amulets Orion gave them, so they’re fine.” Jake replied.

“That’s good.” Cynthia replied.

“I’m not sure if the Sky Kingdom will be as lucky though...” Trent said.

“When Luna and Briar are finished healing, we can help them clean it up. If only we knew where Tom and Cesare are...” Nick pondered, as Meritel overheard this sadly.

“Whoa, what kingdom are we entering?” Tori asked, looking out the window.

They all looked out, seeing a dark, cosmic-like sky with many stars. The ground is space-like, with purple and green rocks. Many houses and structures float up due to magic and technology. There are several mechanical buildings around, forming a city. Many strange Karmanian creatures in space outfits from below look up at the blimp.

“Man, the future is wild.” Cynthia said.

“This is Cosmosos, a kingdom themed around space and the source of Karmania's technology. The intelligent civilians here have evolved to craft highly advanced technology through mixing science and magic, and years of traveling between worlds. Many kingdoms import their machinery.” a pilot explained, as they see many high-tech machines being built by the civilians on the ground.

"This place would make for a great sci-fi convention.” Tori said.

“We’re in space? Hey, it’s just like the upcoming season of Snail-tective!” Nick noted, impressed at the area.

“Well it’s not actually like your world’s “space”, it’s just themed like it...it’s complicated.” Elana replied awkwardly.

“So these guys are basically like your dimension’s form of aliens?” Trent asked.

“I guess that’s one way to put it, but they’re generally very distant from the other kingdoms. Very few have ever fully explored this kingdom due to their privacy.” Meritel explained.

“Interesting how a dimension based around magic has a kingdom with skills in technology.” Zero noted.

“They still use magic as well, as you can find many rare creatures and civilians here skilled in the Cosmic element.” Meritel explained.

“The stars look so pretty...” Audrey said, looking at the shining stars in the space sky.

As the blimp keeps flying through the starry sky, a strange, black robot flies into Cosmosos. It has a tv screen on its front, showing the image of the Federation's symbol. It looks up at The Guardian, and analyzes it. The system says “TARGET ACQUIRED”. The Neo Federation in a control room looking through the robot’s screen.

“Excellent work on this machine, Colress.” Edward said.

“This machine will allow us to keep a close eye on them while they journey across the faraway kingdoms. In addition to its flight speed, it is equipped for combat. I have not given it a codename, but I’m open to any suggestions.” Colress explained.

“How about we just call it the TV Bot? I dunno, I got nothing else.” Morgana suggested.

“Simple and to the point, sure. But the name is not important, as long as it succeeds in its job of annihilating them!” Edward said.

“Or more preferably to my liking, capturing them.” Colress replied.

“Excuse me. You’re not the leader, I am! I may like your contributions, and I commend you for the thoroughly planned siege on their base, but watch your step...” Edward said coldly to him.

“...Yes sir.” Colress replied hesitantly.

“Ooh, drama.” Thorn said.

“He may as well be the leader, since he was the one that found their base and destroyed it. You couldn’t even stop them from blowing up a ship.” Morgana pointed out, angering Edward.

“Silence, you insolent brat. This is why I hate children...” Edward said, standing up and about to pull out his sword cane.

“I’m not really a child, but I don’t think you want to fight, old man...” Morgana said, about to transform.

“Now now, there is no need for tension. I was out of line, and I fully apologize. If Edward decrees it, I respect his wishes. Let us watch the show.” Colress said to ease the atmosphere, as Morgana and Thorn leave the room annoyed.

TV Bot keeps flying closely to The Guardian, staying behind them. Skipper looks out the window from his room and sees the machine after them.

“That doesn’t look good...” Skipper said, as he gets up off the couch and rushes out of his room.

“Ooh, look down there at those fancy rock formations!” Nick said, checking out the many special rock sculptures, with one resembling a block of cheese.

“Uh guys, I hate to interrupt your sightseeing, but an unwanted intruder is following the blimp.” Skipper reported, surprising them.

They all look out the back, seeing TV Bot flying behind the blimp.

“What is that ugly thing?” Cynthia asked.

“Looks like Neo Federation technology.” Zero noted.

TV Bot’s screen goes static, and then shows Edward’s face, who laughs.

“Great, just what we needed...” Madison sighed.

“Hello fools! Like our new machine? You thought you could run, but we will hunt you down and blast you out of the sky!” Edward threatened.

“Good luck, that hunk of junk doesn’t look very threatening.” Cynthia taunted.

TV Bot then forms gauntlet machine guns around both of its arms, and points them at the blimp. 

“Maybe we should stop taunting our enemies...” Madison replied.

“Good idea.” Jake replied, as the heroes get ready to fight.

The Federation symbols reappears on TV Bot’s screen. TV Bot then fires multiple laser blasts from the gauntlets at the blimp, as it moves, trying to avoid the blasts. Several blasts hit the blimp, but it is able to withstand. Some royal soldiers fire laser cannons at TV Bot, but it flies around, dodging the blasts. The heroes are about to power up.

“Don’t worry guys, we have this flying machine handled.” one of the soldiers said in the control room, as he kept firing lasers, but TV Bot keeps dodging.

“Are you sure? We can fly out there and trash it for you.” Cynthia offered.

“Hold on, we almost have it...” the soldier said, carefully analyzing the robot’s movements. 

TV Bot kept flying around, as both soldiers fire lasers. It dodges them, but a cannonball is then fired from another slot, catching TV Bot off-guard. The cannonball smashes right into its side, damaging its jet engine. It sparks, and goes flying down to the grounds of Cosmosos. 

“You got it!” Audrey said happily, looking at it falling from the window.

“Nice work, gentlemen.” Meritel said.

“That machine is likely not out yet. Let’s keep moving before it comes back.” Cameron said.

“Roger that.” the soldier replied, as he kept piloting the blimp with the other soldier.

TV Bot crashes onto a purple mountain. It gets up, but its sides are still heavily damaged. Edward and Colress see this damage from the control room.

“Blasted rebels...can this damage be fixed!?” Edward asked angrily.

“I installed automatic repair tools into it for this type of scenario.” Colress explained.

“Good, we cannot lose them!” Edward replied.

TV Bot then forms a blowtorch on its left hand, and uses it to repair the broken side along with the jet engine. It looks up in the sky, seeing The Guardian flying onward.

“Continue to follow that aircraft, but do it more stealthily. I’d prefer to ambush them at their destination.” Colress ordered through a communication device to the machine.

“NEW ORDERS: STEALTH FOLLOW.” TV Bot’s screen read.

The robot flies up, carefully and stealthily following the blimp. A Cosmosos civilian in tech gear sees TV Bot flying with his goggles.

“Never seen a machine like that around here before. How intriguing. Well then, time to get to work.” the civilian said, as he kept walking while carrying a tool box.

Back inside the blimp, the heroes relax again.

“I’m still not sure how to feel that we’re chilling with the former right-hand man of Ramos.” Tori said, referring to Skipper, who is eating potato chips.

“Hey now, what more proof do I need to show I’ve turn-coated?” Skipper inquired.

“Yeah, I mean, the dude risked his life to tell us secrets as Agent, and tried to warn us about the base attack. I trust him, but maybe I’m biased since we both use magic, well granted I don’t use dark magic, but you get the point. I don’t sense anything shady about his aura.” Nick replied.

“I can understand Tori’s skepticism, you can never be too sure about who we let into our group after people like Drew. But if Gordon can join us, I trust you too, Skipper.” Madison reassured.

“I saw the good in Skipper ever since we were trapped in the ice cavern. I’m sure you’ll adjust to us in time.” Cameron replied.

“I don’t distrust him, it just feels weird.” Tori replied.

“Fair enough, I can be an oddball, as you may say. Still, you could use my knowledge of magic considering what dangers lurk in these distant lands...” Skipper said ominously.

“Maybe we could be wizard buddies.” Nick suggested.

“We shall see.” Skipper replied.

As the blimp keeps flying, a strange green light appears in the cosmic sky. Meritel’s bag with Cesare’s ashes in it also begin to glow green.

“Uh...mom, what’s with that bag?” Elana asked, confusing everyone.

Meritel holds it up, confused, but the bag mysteriously floats up. The green light from the sky floats inside, fusing with the bag. It then begins to take the shape of Cesare, as everyone looks at the light oddly.

“Is that...Cesare?” Madison asked, confused.

“...Yes, it is me.” Cesare said, appearing before them, with green glowing light around him.

“...A surprise to be sure, but a welcome one.” Nick said, shocked.

“Never seen a magic trick like this before...” Skipper said, curious.

“But I saw you perish...” Meritel asked, confused.

“Wait...Beast killed him?” Elana asked.

“He did. But my spirit has ascended beyond your realm. Do not be sad, I am doing fine in this new form. I wish you the best of luck on your journey to stop The Beast, he cannot grow more powerful. He is currently on his way to the Crystal Citadel, a prison in Cosmosos. It contains some of the most ancient, powerful and evil prisoners in all of Karmania. The Beast plans to release several of them to join his forces. You must stop him. However, it is not easy to get into this citadel. It is protected by a magical barrier, no ordinary being can access it.” Cesare explained to them.

“How can we enter it then?” Trent asked.

“Only someone who commits a heinous magical crime can be put in there. I don’t think any of you would want to be arrested. But there could be another way...I’ll let you figure it out on your own.” Cesare said.

“I hate brain teasers.” Cynthia sighed.

“Don’t worry, brain teasers are my speciality. I’m glad you’re not entirely gone, Mr. Cesare.” Nick replied.

“One more thing. Madison. Your father is in this citadel.” Cesare revealed, confusing them.

“My father? But my dad is still in Posidonia being his weird self.” Madison replied, confused.

“No, not Henry. I mean...your birth father. He has been in the Crystal Citadel this whole time. If you wish to know who he is, now is your chance. Farewell.” Cesare revealed, shocking everyone.

“Whoa...plot twist.” Nick said, confused, as Cesare disappears.

“Wait, come back! I...can’t believe it. My birth father has been in Karmania this whole time? What about my birth mother? I don’t know what to think...” Madison said, confused.

“I was wondering what the deal was with your real parents, but I didn’t think it’d be revealed like this...” Trent said, scratching his head.

“How did he even get to Karmania?” Jake questioned.

“Something about this doesn’t seem right. Why would your birth father be in the prison for the worst criminals?” Cameron asked.

“Maybe it was a misunderstanding?” Audrey suggested.

“I wouldn’t be so sure. The Crystal Police have never wrongly arrested anyone to my knowledge, they make sure they get their facts straight. I’m sorry Madison, but your birth father could truly be a scoundrel...” Meritel said to her.

“She is correct. He had to have committed one of the worst possible crimes in Karmania to end up there.” Skipper said, concerning Madison.

“Even if he is a bad guy, I’d still like to see him and ask him why he abandoned me all those years ago...that is, if we can figure out how to get there. I’m still not sure how to feel about this, I think I need some coffee to relax...” Madison said, going to the coffee maker.

“Same here. Talk about a drama bomb.” Cynthia said.

“Regardless of whoever he truly is, you have the right to learn more about him, like how I wanted to find my parents.” Elana encouraged to Madison.

“And just as I wanted to learn more on my origins.” Zero added.

“Yeah, and if he is a bad guy, at least you still have Susan and Henry who love you.” Trent said to her.

“I just want answers.” Madison replied, unsure how to feel.

“While we ponder that mystery, I may know how to get us into the Crystal Citadel...” Nick said, holding out the gold ticket Wishy Joe gave him.

“Did you get a ticket for speeding or something?” Cynthia asked.

“What? No, I barely even drive my truck. Anyways, Wishy Joe, that wish-master Cameron and I met to restore your magical powers, gave me this magical ticket I can use to revisit him whenever. Maybe we can wish to get into the citadel. Of course, I can’t wish it since I already used my wish, but one of you can, if you word it properly.” Nick suggested.

“...That might work, great thinking Nick.” Cameron replied.

“I never got to meet him, so sure. He sounds like a cool guy.” Jake replied.

Beast and the prisoners are seen on Grador’s back, still flying through Cosmosos. From the gemstone of Elana’s crown, Beast is in the body of Ramos watching their conversation, who smiles.

“Excellent. Gentlemen, they have given us an opening right into the Crystal Citadel.” Beast spoke in a deep voice, as the seven beasts with him cheered.

Grador then turns around, and flies off, going faster. Beast then shines the blue gemstone, using its power to turn them invisible, as they get closer to The Guardian. Back inside, Nick touches the cursive “J” on the ticket, as a gold portal opens.

“I’ll wait here. We shall have the flying contraption ready to pick you up from the citadel when you are ready. Good luck, guardians.” Meritel said to them.

“Yeah, I’ll hang back here too. I don’t think Joe would like to see a dark magic user like me, sorry.” Skipper said, as he relaxes on the couch.

The boys and girls head into the gold portal. Grador, while still invisible, floats through the blimp, and sees the gold portal. He flies into it with Beast’s crew on his back, as the portal closes. Skipper looks at this oddly.

“I feel as if an unwanted presence was here...” Skipper said, concerned.

The heroes appear in Wishy Joe’s realm, walking across the bridge.

“Nice palace.” Cynthia said, seeing it.

“This is one interesting world he’s got...” Madison said, seeing the gold colors.

As they keep walking, Grador carefully follows behind while invisible. They walk into Joe’s palace, who is all alone. He then turns around, startled to see them all.

“Whoa, didn’t know I was getting so many guests, I would’ve left out snacks! Well well well, if it isn’t Nick and Cameron, welcome back to my home!” Wishy Joe said, surprised, as he walks up to give Nick and Cameron handshakes.

“It’s good to see you again, Joe. We need your help.” Cameron said.

“Anything for friends, but as much as I like you Nick, you can’t wish again.” Joe reminded.

“I know, so one of my friends will. We have to get into the Crystal Citadel, but first we need to check to see if that is wishable in your rule book.” Nick explained.

“The Crystal Citadel? Why would you go there?” Joe asked, confused.

“My birth father is there...for some reason. I want to meet him, as risky as this might be.”  Madison said.

“I admire your determination, but this citadel is for the baddest of apples to ever exist in Karmanian history!” Joe warned.

“We know, but we’re prepared to face whatever is there, and if we aren’t, we have an easy way out.” Madison said, referring to the heart.

“Well it’s a good thing all the prisoners are frozen in crystal cells. Just don’t release any of them, and you’ll be fine, though I don’t see why you would.” Joe said.

“If he’s frozen, how am I supposed to learn more about him? I don’t think releasing him would be a good idea...” Madison sighed.

“Maybe we could ask one of the crystal police?” Audrey asked.

“Ehh...you’re welcome to try, but I’m not sure how likely it is they’ll listen to you. They don’t really want anybody in there, and would probably attack you, even if you are guardians.” Joe warned.

“Alright then. We’ll do what we can. Thank you for helping.” Madison said.

“At least Beast has no way of getting to the citadel.” Jake said.

“That’s true. I’m ready for my wish. I wish-” Madison was saying.

“I beg to differ.” Beast spoke, shocking everyone.

“...What? But how-” Elana was saying, when Grador appears before them, and whacks them all across the room with his tail. 

The prisoner beasts laugh at them from Grador’s back, as Nick helps Joe get up. 

“Thanks. This is not how I wanted my day to go...” Joe said.

“What is that dragon?” Audrey asked.

“...Grador.” Cameron said disappointed.

“Wishy Joe! I wish that everyone in this room could enter the Crystal Citadel!” Beast demanded, surprising them.

“...Ramos? Or Beast?” Jake said, confused, as he gets up.

“What are you doing here?” Audrey asked.

“How did he even find us?” Trent asked.

“Eavesdropping. You can thank the queen’s corrupted stone. You should discuss your plans more carefully.” Beast replied.

“Note to self. Let’s not discuss these plans near Elana’s crown.” Tori said.

“Good idea.” Elana replied, readying her sword.

“...You don’t have to grant his wish, right?” Cynthia said to Joe.

“He must. I broke no rules.” Beast replied, smiling.

“I’m afraid he is right. I must grant his wish. Stop him from releasing the prisoners.” Joe said to them, as the heroes understand.

“I guess this means both of the royal brothers got to make evil wishes...” Nick said.

Madison makes the girls transform, as the knights power up. 

“So we finally meet the legendary “Beast” face to face...” Trent said.

“Wait, is this Beast or Ramos? Your voice is a lot deeper than I remembered if it’s Ramos...” Cynthia asked.

“Ramos is gone. I trained him to be the perfect vessel, and now he is filled with my power. I am only The Beast now and forever.” Beast spoke ominously to them.

“Great, it was bad enough when you were just an obnoxious king that failed at every evil plan.” Tori said.

“...And you were responsible for those humiliations. You will pay another time.” Beast spoke.

“We can settle this at the citadel.” Madison replied, ready to fight.

Suddenly, Grador grabs Joe with his tongue, and devours him whole, shocking everyone.

“No!” they yelled.

“He is unharmed. I am making sure there is no trickery. Do not try to counter my wish, or the dragon will destroy him. Now master, grant my wish.” Beast demanded.

“I’m fine guys, don’t worry. But yeah, sure, jerk...” Joe said from inside of Grador’s stomach.

“We’ll rescue you Joe, I promise!” Nick promised.

Joe then claps his hands from inside the stomach, as everyone in the room glows. They are then teleported to the Crystal Citadel, as the heroes appear inside of it. The gang feels the solid pink crystal ground, as they look around. It is a giant station floating in the sky of Cosmosos. The crystals shine everywhere, forming tall pillars. There is crystal technology everywhere, as they see several frozen prisoners in crystal on multiple platforms in the distance. There are several mysterious statues of crystal giants as well. They can see the starry sky of Cosmosos, and notice several crystal soldiers patrolling around.

“Reminds me of Crystal Town.” Madison said.

“Where did Beast and/or Ramos and their gang go?” Nick asked, looking around

“Don’t know, but if the crystal police handle them, then good for us.” Jake replied.

“I am detecting one prisoner here with the DNA of a fish.” Zero said, scanning a map of the prison.

“That must be my birth father.” Madison said, as they head off, carefully staying out of sight from any crystal soldiers.

“I can’t believe that dragon actually ate Joe though...” Audrey said.

“That was really weird, but I hope he makes it out okay. He seems like a cool guy.” Trent said.

Grador lands on another part of the citadel, as Beast hops off with the prisoners.

“Are we gonna release every prisoner here, boss?” the gelatin beast asked.

“I will out of kindness, but I only need three. They are near...” Beast said.

He then glows purple, and channels his energy. He presses one of his hands against the crystal ground, as he lets the dark energy flow through it, and it begins to turn the crystal citadel gray. Suddenly, several crystal soldiers approach them, aiming their crystal guns.

“Halt intruders. You are not permitted here. Explain how you got into here or we will open fire.” a soldier ordered.

Beast then glows purple again, and sends dark blasts at a soldier, knocking them off the citadel, as they go flying down to the ground below. The magma beasts sends fire blasts at another soldier, clashing with their crystal blasts. Grador breathes fire, and whacks some more soldiers off the platform with his tail.

“I think I’m gonna be sick...” Joe said inside of him, due to the constant moving.

The gelatin creature traps another soldier in jello, while the anglerfish and stone creatures bash right through more soldiers. A bat creature, a porcupine creature, and a storm creature all attack the remaining soldiers. Beast then sends green and elemental blasts from the gemstones on his palms, killing the remaining soldiers. They continue walking onward, while the rest of the citadel slowly continues to turn gray. 

“Is it just me, or is this place looking grayer and grayer by the second?” Nick asked.

“It wasn’t earlier...that doesn’t look good.” Madison said, concerned.

“Must be the work of Beast. Let’s hurry and find your dad.” Jake replied.

They find a row of prisoners, as Zero leads them to Madison’s birth father.

“This is him?” Trent asked.

“Yes, this is the only prisoner with fish DNA.” Zero said, as they look at him.

Inside the crystal, is a frozen fish who is waving goodbye to someone. He is wearing a strange black pirate-like outfit, and has long brown hair, along with a beard.

“That’s my birth father? He doesn’t look evil...” Madison said.

“What should we do? If we release him, the police will get angry...” Audrey said.

“Maybe we could bust it open a little bit only so we can talk to him.” Jake suggested.

Suddenly, his crystal prison begins to melt due to the Beast’s essence, as the top half melts off, and the rest of it is in flames.

“Uh...I don’t think we have to worry about that now, looks like Beast did that for us.” Tori pointed out.

They all look around to see many of the citadel prisoners being released from their crystal prisons, and the citadel is falling apart due to the grayness. Several giant creatures and other strange, ancient beasts run wild, attacking the crystal police. 

“Ey, can I get a ‘lil help here, strangers?” Madison’s birth father asked, surprising them, as they turn around.

They turn around to see him blowing on the fire, trying to get out of the crystal. 

“Well...since the rest of this place is coming apart, I guess there’s no harm.” Madison said, as Jake smashes open the rest of the crystal with his sword. 

“Thanks partner. Fancy outfits you boys got, and nice, some mermaid fairy things too!” Madison’s birth father said, standing up.

“Who are you?” Cameron asked.

“I’m...someone. Ehh...my name...oh yeah, I’m Merrick, I guess. Anyways, nice meeting, but I’m scramming from this place! Because dang, this place is meltin’ faster than a popsicle!” Merrick pointed out, as a platform near them melts away, and the citadel prisoners keep causing havoc with Beast’s minions.

Merrick tries to run off, but Trent stops him.

“Hey, this is Madison. She’s your daughter.” Trent said to him.

“...Daughter? Oh...cool, I guess. Good for you, girl.” Merrick replied uncaringly, confusing the heroes.

“Uh, rude?” Tori asked.

“...Do you not remember me? Why did you leave me on my adopted parents' doorsteps all those years ago?” Madison asked, annoyed.

“Eh, no no no, I remember...Annison, was it? I don't know, it was a long time ago, sheesh...how long was I here again?" Merrick wondered, scratching his head.

"At least seventeen years." Jake replied.

"SEVENTEEN!? It's like I time traveled! Anyways girl, do your old man a favor and help me get out of this dump!” Merrick demanded, annoying Madison and the heroes.

“...Sure, follow us.” Madison replied annoyed, as they begin to run.

Merrick runs ahead past them, as Cynthia approaches Madison.

“Should we really work with him? That guy is horrible, he doesn’t care about you!” Cynthia said.

“Who knows how long he’s been in there, maybe it made his memory loopy...but probably not.” Madison sighed.

From the outside of the citadel, The Guardian is near it. The pilots in the control room notice how the magical shield around it is fading away.

“What’s happening?” one of the soldiers asked, as Meritel looks out the window.

“That’s Beast’s doing...” Meritel realized, concerned.

TV Bot is below the blimp, as it flies up. It then zooms in on the citadel, seeing the guardians and knights.

“There they are!” Edward said from the control room, as TV Bot flies toward the citadel.

Back in the citadel, the soldiers keep firing their guns at the prisoners, who are fleeing. Suddenly, the four crystal giant statues begin to move, as they come to life. They are Crystal Titans, protectors of the citadel. They begin firing crystal lasers at the prisoners. Beast then shoots a green blast at one’s head, causing it to fall into the crystal liquid. He then sends an electricity blast at another, knocking it down. The citadel keeps coming apart, as Beast heads to a secret area of the citadel. He vaporizes three soldiers guarding it with electricity, and enters. In the room, three beasts burst out of their crystals. They are a white tiger beast, a snapping turtle beast, and a crow beast, all wearing ancient armor.

“Free at last...” the snapping turtle beast said, laughing, as dark auras surround the three.

“Who are they?” the porcupine beast asked.

“These are the Phantom Beast Generals: Whiger, Snapper and Nightkrow, three powerful warriors that were apart of the Karmanian Beast war centuries ago. They are the only generals left. It is me, The Beast. I have returned to set you free, and request you join my army.” Beast said to them, bowing.

“Your army looks low in numbers...” Nightkrow scoffed.

“It is not complete, but with your help great generals, we can rule Karmania once again.” Beast said.

“You are now a fish? Intriguing. I am forever in your debt for rescuing me, Beast.” Whiger noted.

“This vessel will be serviceable for the time being. So how about it, for old time’s sake?” Beast asked.

“Of course, immortal one.” Snapper replied.

“Fine. Let’s just get out of this horrid place.” Nightkrow replied.

“What about the other prisoners here?” Whiger asked.

“Most of them are too feral and far gone to understand us. Let them go on their own paths to cause chaos. I have what I came here for.” Beast replied.

Beast boards Grador with his group and the Phantom Generals. 

“Can I get out now?” Joe asked from the stomach, but Grador flies away from the collapsing citadel.

The citadel begins to regain its color due to Beast leaving, as it stops collapsing. The other citadel prisoners attack the Titans, as some get refrozen. The heroes keep running, and avoid the sight of some crystal soldiers who keep attacking the prisoners. Two prisoners try to stop them, but the heroes fight back. A giant crystal then falls down in their path, blocking them. 

“Where did Merrick go?” Zero asked.

Madison then sees Merrick swimming through the purple water, trying to make it to the other side, while avoiding crystal blasts. He then turns around, waving to her.

“I gotta run to the hardware store!” Merrick yelled, as Madison sighs.

“Hey, is that Beast escaping?” Audrey asked, seeing the dragon flying away.

“Why didn’t he take the prisoners with him?” Trent asked.

“He already got what he wanted. He didn’t want this whole army...” Cameron said curiously.

“But what did he get then?” Elana asked.

Suddenly, TV Bot crashes down to the crystal ground, as it looks at the heroes. 

“TARGETS ACQUIRED. TERMINATE.” the screen read, as it readies its weapons.

“Great, just when I forgot about this thing.” Cynthia said, sending crystal rocks at TV Bot, but it blasts through them with lasers.

Madison sends a lightning blast, damaging its traction, as the machine flies around. A Crystal Titan sends a blast at it, but it counters with a laser, and sends it exploding at the Titan, making it fall into the water, causing a giant splash. Nick casts magic spells at it, but it blocks them with its arms, and fires more lasers at them. Jake deflects some with his shield, as does Cameron with his mirror shield, deflecting some shots back at it, but it resists them. Trent fires laser arrows at it, as it flies around. Audrey and Tori send combined ice beams, hitting it. Jake jumps up and keeps striking at the machine, avoiding laser blasts. Beast looks down at the fighting from Grador, and takes interest in Jake. Suddenly, a medium sized crystal is thrown right at TV Bot, and a blast is fired at the crystal. The crystal begins to glow and shake, as it keeps floating.

“Get out of there!” Edward ordered.

TV Bot tries to fly away, but the crystal lets out a powerful explosion in the air, and TV Bot is caught in it. It gets sent flying faraway through the Cosmosos skies. In the Neo Federation control room, the screen goes static.

“We have lost contact.” a soldier reported, as Edward angrily slams his sword cane.

“Thanks...whoever just helped us.” Cynthia said, as a crystal soldier approaches them.

“Oops, busted.” Tori said.

“No problem. You’re the guardians and knights of Karmania. What brought you here?” the soldier asked.

“We’re sorry sir. We are the reason this place got destroyed. An enemy of ours wished us to visit here with a wish master's power, and he destroyed it. I didn’t mean for this to happen. I heard my real father Merrick was a prisoner here, and I just wanted to learn who he truly was. I know he had to be here for a reason, though I’m not sure if he’s capable of committing a crime with the intelligence he displayed. Still, we take full responsibility and apologize.” Madison explained.

“It’s okay. Admittedly, we could’ve built this citadel better too. As for Merrick, I don’t know much about him. He was imprisoned long before I joined. I would tell you more if i could. But everyone here was apprehended for a reason.” the soldier explained.

“We can make it up to you by helping recapture those guys.” Audrey said, referring to the other monsters.

“We can help fix this place up too.” Trent suggested.

“As much as I appreciate those offers, you may want to leave. I may be kind, but the other officers here will not be as kind about your intrusion. Sorry.” the soldier explained.

“We understand, sir. Thank you.” Cameron said, as The Guardian gets closer to the citadel.

They then see Merrick and the remaining prisoners boarding a crystal craft by climbing up a crystal rod. Madison flies to it, and grabs onto the rod.

“Hey, dad! I want to know more about your past. I don’t think your memory is just magically bad. What’s the deal?” Madison yelled up to him.

A giant centipede monster bites the crystal rod, as Merrick sees her.

“Chew faster, that girl bugs me...” Merrick said, slapping the centipede.

The centipede bites off the rod, as the craft begins to fly off. Madison looks up bitterly, as the craft flies off through Cosmosos. Merrick looks out at the kingdom from the craft, as the prisoner beasts cheer. Madison then floats down to them, annoyed.

“Madison, your real father is kind of a crummy dude. I hate to say it, but I don’t think he cares about or remembers you. I'm just not sure how a moron like him did something horrible enough to end up here.” Tori said.

“Sorry he wasn’t what you expected, but you still have your parents in Posidonia who clearly care about you more.” Trent said to her.

“Yeah, Trent’s right. I just wish we knew more about him.” Jake replied.

“I’m more curious on why Cesare even wanted us to find that out.” Madison said, confused.

“Magic works in mysterious ways. Someday, we may have our answer. I sense we’ll meet him again. For now, let’s get to the blimp and continue hunting Beast. I’m worried about what he came here for...” Cameron said, concerned.

“Before you guardians go, I’ve heard you knights imprison beasts like we do. If I may, I’d like to upgrade your equipment.” the soldier offered.

“Sure, why not.” Jake replied, as the five hand him their knight scanners.

The soldier inserts crystal devices into them, and hands them back.

“I’ve upgraded these machines to imprison your enemies in crystal now if the normal method was getting too difficult. This will be helpful if you encounter any of those runaway prisoners. We’d appreciate it if you can capture any you see.” the soldier said.

“We will. Hope your place gets better dude, because yikes...” Tori said, looking at the destruction Beast and the prisoners caused. The Crystal Titans are being healed by orange crystal medics, as other officers clean up the mess.

“Once the Titans regain their strength, they will repair the citadel. Take care.” the soldier said, saluting to them.

“Thanks again for saving us back there.” Madison said to him, as the heroes board The Guardian, and it flies off. 

The heroes explain to Meritel and Skipper what happened at the citadel.

“Oh dear, I am sorry to hear he ended up being such an uncaring man.” Meritel said.

“It’s okay. At least I know who he is, even though there’s a million questions. We’ll worry about them later on, let’s continue hunting a certain other jerk.” Madison said.

“We’ll rescue Joe, and stop Beast from hurting anymore people.” Elana encouraged.

“We have Beast’s dragon in our sights.” a pilot reported, as they see Grador flying toward the Shadow Lands.

“Looks like that’s our next stop.” Jake said.

“Great, that terrible place again...” Cynthia sighed, annoyed.

On Grador’s back, Beast and his allies watch the blimp following them in the distance.

“Good, they continue to follow me. All as intended.” Beast said.

“Why do you want those pests on our tail?” Nightkrow asked.

“It’s all as destiny intended. I need them to come to me. When the time is right, there is one of them with hidden potential who I want to use to my advantage...” Beast said, smiling, as Grador keeps flying further into the Shadow Lands.

Notes/Trivia:

-Character Debuts: Merrick, TV Bot, Whiger, Snapper, Nightkrow, Crystal Police, Crystal Titans

-Area Debuts: Cosmosos, Crystal Citadel

-”Cosmic” is revealed to be an element.

-The knight scanners are upgraded with a crystal imprisonment power.

-Wishy Joe from “Brak Is Back” reappears, and he

 

 

gets eaten by the possessed Grador, but is okay for now.

 

-

 

Cesare is still deceased, but has ascended to a higher plane of existence.

 

-

 

Merrick is Madison’s birth father. It is currently unknown why he was imprisoned in the Crystal Citadel.

 

-

 

Beast releases Whiger, Snapper and Nightkrow, three powerful Phantom Beasts.

 

[TJ]

Great premiere. I feel like a lot of big things were set up, and left us with intriguing new questions. What's the deal with Madison's father? Where's her biological mother? Is Beast referring to Jake at the end? The adventure in Shadow Lands next week should be a very exciting one if this was anything to go by. I really liked the idea of Cosmosos and hope to see it explored even more later on in the future.

[SpongeOddFan]

I thought this season 4 premiere is good start on Beast hunt, and looking at how Cosmosos is interesting display. Some these question may be unanswered, and it will be evealed eventually like what's this about Madison's brith father? why's Beast needed these phanton beast specifically ?  idk what even going on I guess i'll keep reading and continuing Beast arc...

[Metal Snake]

Super good premiere. I never would've guessed that Nick and Madison liked coffee! Oh yeah, and I liked the twist about Madison's real father too. Reminded me of Adventure Time with Finn and his dad. Merrick is the most obnoxious while at the same time interesting character we've seen so far, I believe.

[Jjs Goodman]

80. Heroes of the Shadows

The heroes keep pursuing Beast, as The Guardian flies further into the Shadow Lands, chasing after Grador. Madison looks out the window, still upset about Merrick. 

“Sorry about your dad. I know it must suck knowing he’s a jerk that really doesn’t remember you at all, but at least you have me, Henry and Susan.” Jake said to her, cheering her up.

“Thank you. I’m okay if I don’t see him again, despite leaving a lot of questions...” Madison replied, curious.

“I see this place looks as depressing as ever.” Nick noted, looking below at the Shadow Land mountains.

“I guess we have to go here, whatever. As long as we don’t see any annoying wolves or skeletons this time, I’ll deal with it.” Cynthia said.

“I hope the royal army is doing okay aiding the civilians. They don’t deserve to suffer under the wrath of anybody like Viktor.” Elana recalled, looking down into the kingdom, seeing a dreary village.

“Couldn’t we have just teleported the blimp here? This place is registered in the heart since we visited it before.” Trent asked.

“If we teleported, who knows where we’d end up. We can’t lose his trail.” Madison replied.

“I think we’re about to lose his trail either way...” Tori noted, confusing the gang.

They look further out the window, as many dark clouds appear in their way. The clouds block their view of Grador. 

“No, we can’t lose them now!” Jake said disappointed.

They make it hard for The Guardian to fly, as multiple lightning blasts strike through the clouds, nearly hitting the blimp.

“This doesn’t look good...” Audrey said.

“This is a dark cloud storm, which tends to happen here and there in the Shadow Lands. There’s no way we can make it through unscathed.” Meritel warned.

“We can’t see anything, I’m afraid we’ll have to land.” one of the pilots reported, as another lightning blast nearly strikes the blimp. 

The Guardian flies down, landing onto the gray and black surface. The heroes get out, to see multiple tents and supplies set up, along with a campfire. Many of the Central Karmanian soldiers are there with Shadow Land civilians, who are in battle gear fixing their weapons. They see the blimp and heroes.

“Hey guys!” Elana greeted to them, approaching.

“Queen Elana and the guardians, what brings you here?” a soldier asked.

“We were chasing The Beast, but our blimp got caught in several storm clouds. We had to land for the time being.” Zero explained.

“We can aid you in our downtime, if you want.” Elana offered, surprising the royal soldiers and Shadow Land civilians.

“Are you sure? We should be hunting Beast, who knows where he’s heading now.” Mertiel questioned.

“Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like those storm clouds will be going away anytime soon.” Cameron said, as it began to rain down, which he heard.

“I guess we could stay here a while and help you guys out, if you need it.” Jake replied.

“We’d appreciate the assistance. Rickter’s forces are becoming stronger.” a soldier replied.

“Rickter? Don’t you mean Viktor? Still not sure why he spells it with a “k”, but yeah. I thought he promised to stop bothering you guys after Elana beat him up?” Nick questioned.

“No, Rickter is Viktor’s brother. He was made the king of the Shadow Lands after their parents were embarrassed and angry at Viktor’s defeat by Queen Elana. Rickter is much smarter and cunning.” a civilian explained.

“Rickter and Viktor...haha, how clever...” Tori said sarcastically.

“I see their parents like giving their spawn very similar names.” Nick noted.

“If we could handle his brother, I’m sure this guy won’t be a problem.” Trent said confidently. 

“Be careful...we’ve heard whispers of a powerful weapon Rickter’s forces use that other rebels have been no match against...” another civilian warned, making the heroes wonder.

“What kind of weapon?” Elana asked curiously.

“They say it is mechanical...and chaotic, but our group has never seen it. I trust with your help, we can handle whatever it is.” the civilian replied.

“Rickter could try some dark spell tricks on us like Viktor did, maybe we could have Flinn help us?” Madison suggested.

“Sure, I’ll contact him.” Jake replied, using his communicator.

“Couldn’t we get Skipper to help us against his dark magic shenanigans too? He’s all about that stuff, and it’s about time he did something to help us.” Cynthia suggested.

“I’ll ask the dude.” Nick said, as he heads into the blimp.

“Flinn is available, let’s bring him here.” Jake said to Madison, as she opens a portal with the heart.

A short amount of time later, Madison and Jake walk out of the portal with Flinn, as Madison closes the portal with the heart.

“The gang’s all here, sweet.” Audrey said.

“Aye, it’s good to be with ye all again, even though it’s only been about two hours since we last met.” Flinn said cheerfully.

Nick then walks out of the blimp with Skipper. Skipper has a new haircut and grey soldier jacket, and approaches the heroes.

“A reunion, how nice. Now then...it’s time to get to work.” Skipper said happily.

“Nice new outfit.” Audrey said.

“Alright, let’s humiliate another evil wolf ruler!” Cynthia said determined.

“Thank you for wanting to help us, guardians of Karmania. We don’t want to be seen as evil like many others here. We want to be free from their reign at long last.” a civilian said to them, as they finished fixing their sword.

“No problem. Once you’re free, maybe this kingdom can be an ally of Central Karmania. Where do we start?” Elana asked to the soldiers.

“We can attack Rickter’s forces east of the Phantom Springs where they’re guarding a prison, which we’re close to.” a civilian said, pointing to a spot on the map.

“Sounds like a plan, Stan.” Tori said.

“How did you know my name was Stan, Stanford to be precise?” the civilian asked, surprised.

“I didn’t. That’s just an expression where we’re from.” Tori replied awkwardly.

“Well okay.” Stanford replied awkwardly.

“Reminds me of a lad I knew. I hope he’s doing okay. Maybe when I get downtime, I’ll pay him a visit.” Flinn thought.

“Ah...my first real adventure with you guys. To think all the times we were on opposite sides. Can’t wait to show those pests my dark magical powers...” Skipper was saying.

“Actually magic guy...we have an offer for ya. We could use your dark magic to help protect us, in case anybody tries to hijack this blimp. Please?” a soldier offered to Skipper.

“...Fine. Best of luck, friends.” Skipper said to the heroes, as he helps guard the blimp.

“Someday you’ll get a proper adventure with us. We promise, dude.” Nick said to Skipper, as they all head off.

“Are you sure you’re all ready? You may have succeeded in rescuing Orion and I before, but who knows what dangers await in this dangerous kingdom this time...” Meritel warned.

“Don’t worry mom, we have more than enough support to handle them and their weapon.” Elana said proudly, as they walk off through the plains.

“Don’t let your guard down, I’m still personally worried on what this mysterious weapon is...” Cameron wondered.

The heroes go past Phantom Springs, and see a large pit nearby where many of Rickter’s forces are. There is a tall black tower in the middle, heavily guarded by multiple armored wagons and catapults around.

“Inside that tower are fellow allies who were captured. Together we can free them.” a civilian said, looking at it with binoculars.

“At least the people in this prison are good, we don’t want to accidentally release more bad apples for Karmania to deal with.” Madison noted, as she transforms the girls, and the knights power up.

“When should we attack?” Trent asked, readying his dagger.

“We’ll spread out across the area, and strike at once. This will be an ambush. Queen Elana can give the signal whenever ready.” a soldier said.

Everyone carefully walks across the pit edges, hiding behind pillars and rocks, and getting into positions. They wait and look down carefully, while Elana readies herself.

“FORWARD!” Elana yelled, holding up her sword, leading the charge into the pit.

They charge into the pit, attacking Rickter’s forces. They are caught by surprise, as the fighting begins. Multiple royal soldiers and Shadow Land civilians clash against the beast soldiers. Elana sends light blasts from one hand at a beast soldier, knocking them into an armored wagon, and clashes her sword against another one’s club. Cynthia rises up the ground below two soldiers, and blasts them out of the area. She then sends a boulder smashing into a catapult, destroying it. Madison sends multiple lightning blasts, with one destroying another catapult, and zapping an archer beast. Audrey turns invisible, avoiding a swinging spike club from a beast soldier. She then reappears and sends a powerful wind gust, sending them smashing into an armored wagon. Tori sends a whirlpool blast at another archer, sending them flying, and landing on top of an armored wagon.

“My leg!” the archer yelled.

Cameron strikes his sword at a beast soldier’s, and knocks it out of their hand. He then knocks them to the ground, and senses another beast soldier charging at him from behind. He blocks their spike club, and powers up his sword, slicing the club in half. The beast soldier panics, as Cameron knocks them aside, landing onto the ground. Jake clashes his sword against another beast soldier’s, and uses his red shield to block a few slashes. He then shoots out red glue from the stone, shooting it against the armored wagon, confusing the soldier. Jake then clashes his sword again, and pushes him into the glue, leaving him stuck against the wagon, as they drop their sword. Nick clashes his sword against a beast soldier’s club, and dodges a boulder from a catapult. He sends a magic spell from his stone, turning the catapult into a cardboard box, confusing the two beast soldiers around it. He then sends another spell at the beast soldier’s club, turning it into a soda can. Nick slashes off their armor, and sends a spell blast, knocking the soldier into the wall. Flinn sends gold slashes at five beast soldiers, with assistance from civilians and royal soldiers, defeating them. Zero sends electric blasts at a soldier, stunning them, and he knocks them out. Trent fires laser arrows at an archer and the last catapult, destroying it. Meritel sends light blasts of her own at remaining guards, and then picks up a leftover sword. She runs up and slashes it at the last beast soldier’s, sending it flying right into an armored wagon. She punches the soldier, and sends them smashing against a wall. 

“I had no clue your mom was a great warrior.” Cynthia said to Elana, impressed.

“Was? I still am.” Meritel replied smirking, overhearing, as she holds onto the sword. “I’ll keep this in case things get complicated.”

“Duhh...” many knocked out soldiers moaned around them.

“Go inside, we’ll keep watch in case reinforcements arrive.” a civilian said to Elana, Meritel, the guardians, and knights.

They understand, as they go inside the tower. It is completely silent.

“Hello, any guards?” Tori asked, as nothing comes to attack them.

“I think all the goons we knocked out were the security for this place. Makes it easier for us.” Cynthia said, as they look around for the prisoners.

The heroes split up, and search through the floors. They release many Shadow Land civilians, who are happy to see them. The civilians are escorted out of the tower by the heroes, and are set free into the Shadow Lands.

“Look at them run towards freedom. It’s beautiful...” Nick said sappily. 

“Now what?” Audrey asked.

“Now we await Rickter’s next move, wherever he is...” Elana said.

On a cliff, Rickter is seen with several of his soldiers. He is a wolf creature similar to Viktor, but has bronze robes on him. 

“King Rickter, it appears the prisoners in the tower near Phantom Springs have all been freed. Queen Elana and the guardians are here, helping out the rebellion.” a soldier reported.

“How unfortunate. However, I’ve been eagerly awaiting to meet the girl that defeated my brother in combat. They do not know what I have up my sleeve.” Rickter said confidently. 

“Another group of rebels nearby just sent some of our army running.” another soldier reported.

“Perfect timing. They can get a taste of our weapon. Deploy...The Werewolf.” Rickter ordered.

At the other group of soldiers and civilians near the graveyard, they have sent Rickter’s forces running. One of the soldiers then contacts one with the heroes.

“Attention team, we have sent the forces near the graveyard running.” the soldier reported.

“Good work, we just freed the prisoners in our location. Stay there, and we can regroup.” the soldier replied.

“Wait...what’s this? It appears they are deploying a single mechanical walking machine to cover their retreat.” the other soldier reported, as everyone overhears.

“Only one? Something isn’t right...” Cameron noted curiously.

“Could this be the weapon?” Jake asked.

“Don’t worry, we’ll destroy it.” the other soldier reported to them.

Suddenly, they hear the machine begin to charge up and make an odd loud noise on the other end, confusing the heroes. A blast is heard on the other end, as the communicator goes static. 

“Hello? Anyone?” the soldier asked on his communicator, getting no reply.

“Oh no...” Elana said, worried.

The heroes all head to the graveyard, as they see multiple ash piles everywhere, with royal soldier armor left behind everywhere, terrifying everyone. 

“...Yikes.” Jake said.

“...Where are the victors of this battle? Or the wounded? Or the defeated?” Meritel asked, looking around.

Elana looks at the burnt royal armor and helmets left behind, recognizing them as the armor of her own soldiers, terrifying her. 

“Oh dear...” Stanford said.

“What did this...?” Cynthia asked.

“This must be the work of the rumored weapon...” a soldier said concerned.

“This is horrible. Some of these were Rickter’s own people. We need to find that weapon and destroy it. We’ll never let him do this to any others here.” Elana said determined, recognizing burnt armor from civilians. 

“Those poor soldiers...” Audrey said sadly.

“That’s messed up...” Trent said.

“Aye, this be the work of a cold-blooded dictator. Flinn said.

“I can’t even make a lighthearted joke for this...” Tori said.

“I’m just wondering how this machine turned them into ash...” Madison said worryingly. 

“I am not sure what type of weapon we are up against, but it appears powerful plasma struck this armor.” Zero said, analyzing it with his scanner.

“Another group reported they saw the weapon heading toward Rickter’s castle. That’s likely where they’ll be storing it. We can intercept it there.” a soldier reported.

“Let’s go then, we’ll turn that machine into ash first.” Elana said.

“Heh, clever.” Nick said.

“Hold on Elana, we don’t even know the extent of this weapon’s power. I don’t want you all to suffer this same fate. If we’re going to strike his castle, we’ll need a perfectly thought through plan.” Meritel noted.

“Mom, we’ll be fine. We’ve made it to the castle with ease before, outside of that goo in the tunnel.” Elana reassured.

“I just don’t want us doing something reckless and putting our lives in danger. Orion and I were trapped here for years, I know how dangerous it can be...” Meritel said.

“We can take a shortcut to get to the castle through the Valley of Shadows. There’s several hostile creatures lurking there, but it’s the fastest way.” Stanford said, looking at a map.

“Then we’ll go that way. We can handle whatever is there.” Elana said, as they move forward, to Meritel’s concern.

“What kind of creatures are there?” Cameron asked.

“A bunch of shadow creatures lurk the area, but they usually do not bother you unless you bother them. Usually.” Stanford explained.

“That’s not really reassuring.” Tori sighed, as they keep going forward.

Rickter is seen in the castle with his guards and beast soldiers. He waves his paw, making a red portal appear.

“Behold the power of The Werewolf. This will keep the rebels quiet once they learn of its power.” Rickter said to them, as the portal shows what happened to the soldiers earlier.

The Werewolf walks onto the ground, as it is shown to be a grey, large, mechanical walker. It has four legs, and a wolf-like face on its front. The wolf face’s eyes shoot two powerful plasma beams from it, as the plasma charges strike right through the royal soldier’s armors. It overheats their bodies, turning them into ash. It keeps walking, with beast soldiers following it. The vision ended, as some of his guards seemed horrified at this.

“The weapon is designed to only target the metal alloy of the armor in the Central Karmanian soldiers, along with the armor of the foolish rebels here. Our own army is left unscratched by its power. Quite impressive, if I say so myself. Its range is a bit limited, but this can be fixed in time.” Rickter explained, smiling evilly. 

“Sir...I mean no disrespect, but doesn’t targeting your own people seem like a betrayal to our history?” a guard asked.

“My family said I must do whatever it takes to crush this rebellion, and so I shall. It will send a powerful message to them.” Rickter replied.

Rickter then makes another portal appear, as he watches the heroes walking through the plains. A crow is on a dead tree, with its red eyes seeing them for Rickter.

“It appears we’ll be having some unwelcome guests to destroy my weapon. How unfortunate. I’ll let them come and appreciate the machine up close, but first I’ll slow them down. Keep this castle protected.” Rickter ordered to his men.

“Are you sure you can handle the guardians?” a guard asked.

“Of course. My dark elemental power exceeds that of my weak brother’s. They have no clue who they are messing with.” Rickter said, disappearing into a cloud of smoke.

The heroes carefully walk across a bridge, and approach the Valley of Shadows. Rickter then reappears outside an old shack, as he sees the heroes approach. He mumbles to himself, and casts a spell.

“Hunters of the valley, you will strike down these intruders. Your king demands it...” Rickter spoke, with his eyes glowing red. 

He laughs, and disappears. Many shadow creatures begin to pop out of the area, lurking toward the heroes. 

“Wonder who lives there...” Nick pondered, seeing the old and run-down shack.

“We can admire the scenery later, just keep walking. We have a super weapon to destroy.” Cynthia reminded.

As they try to move forward, several shadow creatures rise up from the ground, growling at them. Many more appear, stopping them in their tracks.

“I’m guessing we did something to bother them.” Tori sighed.

They hiss, as they hop around, launching shadow attacks at the heroes. Madison sends a lightning blast at once, but it goes onto the flat ground, avoiding the blast, as it floats around on the ground. The soldiers and civilians strike their staffs and swords at the shadow creatures, but they resist them. One shadow grabs a civilian from behind, and throws them against the old shack, as it laughs mischievously. Elana and Meritel send light blasts, scaring three shadow creatures, sending them fleeing. Four pop out of a tree and grab the two. Meritel and Elana slash their swords at them, making them disappear. Cynthia rises up the ground a shadow is trying to escape on, and she imprisons it in a stone box. She then smashes it apart, sending the shadow creature flying onto the ground knocked out. Tori sends whirlpool blasts at two shadow creatures, picking them off the ground and sending them flying. She sends another, going past a shadow blast and knocking the creature into a soldier, who knocks them out with their staff. Audrey sends a wind gust at a shadow blast, knocking it back at a shadow creature. She catches it off guard, and sends them flying away in a tornado gust. Madison sends an electricity ball flying at a shadow creature, who tries to flee into the ground, but Cynthia breaks the ground apart, exposing the creature. It gets struck by the ball, knocking it out. 

“Thanks for the assist.” Madison said to Cynthia.

Cameron uses his stone to deflect shadow attacks, and slashes right through a shadow creature, making them disappear. Zero sends stun blasts at one, and punches it, knocking it into a tree out cold. Flinn sends golden slashes at two, scaring them away. Jake slashes his sword at one, but it goes into the ground, avoiding him. However, Jake then shoots red glue onto the ground, which the shadow creature gets stuck on, as it struggles to get out of the ground. Trent sends laser arrows at two shadow creatures, blasting through their shadow attacks, making them disappear. Nick sends spell blasts at a shadow creature, who counters with shadow balls, but Nick strikes through them with his sword, as he runs fast with his stone’s power. He then casts a spell that makes a clown wig appear on the shadow creature, confusing it. He then sends a magic spell attack at the creature, making it vanish.

“Why did you put a wig on them?” Stanford asked to Nick.

“I like to leave my enemies really confused before delivering the final blow.” Nick explained.

“Welp, that’s that.” Jake said, as no shadow creatures remained.

The heroes keep moving forward through the Valley of Shadows, as they see the castle coming closer toward them. Rickter reappears on a cliff.

“They are strong, I will admit, but they will be no match for my true surprise. Come to the castle all you want.” Rickter taunted, as he disappears again.

The heroes make it out of the valley, seeing the castle in view. Cynthia then looks to the side and notices tons of rock debris.

“Oh how nice, those jerks destroyed my rock tunnel! I worked so hard to make that!” Cynthia noted, seeing the tunnel she made in their last visit was no longer there.

A soldier zooms in with their binoculars, seeing many archers, catapults and guards on the outside of the castle. He then moves to the left, and sees The Werewolf moving into the side of the castle. 

I believe that’s their weapon.” the soldier noted, pointing it out to everyone.

“Haha, the wolf made it look like a wolf, how clever.” Tori said sarcastically. 

“Wow, that’s...really ugly. How did that destroy people?” Cynthia asked.

“Do not underestimate it. According to my scans, it appears there is a plasma core in its control room, which it has been using to burn right through the soldier armor. We need to break inside of it, and destroy the plasma core from the inside.” Zero reported, analyzing the machine with his scanner.

“Me, Zero and some soldiers will go inside to disable it, while the rest of you can distract those guards.” Elana ordered.

“I’m going with you too. I cannot let you face that chaotic contraption with just one knight and a handful of soldiers.” Meritel said to her.

“Fine, but I can handle myself, you know-” Elana was saying.

“INTRUDERS! FIRE!” a beast soldier yelled from above, as the archers fired, and the catapults flung burning rocks. 

Elana, Meritel, Zero and several soldiers rushed toward where The Werewolf is being held, while the rest countered against the castle defenses. Tori sent a water blast at a burning rock, and with Audrey’s help, sent it flying right back at the catapult, destroying it, as the beast soldiers fell off the ledge. Many archers fired, but Trent sent laser arrows back, destroying their arrows. Cynthia then sent rocks flying at two more catapults, destroying them. Madison sent lightning blasts at two archers, sending them flying off the ledges. The remaining knights and soldiers all fought off against beast soldiers on the ground, who wielded axes, clubs and swords. 

Elana sends a light blast at a guard, sending them flying. Meritel sends a light blast at another guard nearby, as they make their way to where the weapon went. They then find a large entrance leading to a path beneath the castle, where the weapon is being held. Rickter sees this from his location, and smiles. As they try to go through, a gargoyle statue above the entrance comes to life, and it flies down, stopping them. It is about to launch a dark blast, but Meritel sends a light blast at its chest. She then strikes her sword right at its wings and legs. It crumbles to dust, surprising Elana, as they move forward. They arrive in an underground workshop, where they see The Werewolf is.

“It appears they are charging it.” Zero said, seeing many wires going into it. 

“Hey, you aren’t allowed in here-” a beast soldier was saying, but Zero sends an electric shock at them, knocking them out. 

They see a large wooden balcony where another beast soldier is at on top. They make their way towards it. The soldiers stop however.

“We’ll wait on the ground in case anybody else comes. Disable that evil machine for our allies who fell.” a soldier said.

Elana, Meritel and Zero climb up the ladder, as they make it to the top of the balcony, surprising the beast soldier.

“What the-” he was saying, but Elana pushes them off, as they land on the ground. They carefully walk on top of The Werewolf, and see an open hatch. 

The three climb down inside of it, as they appear in the control room. The plasma core is seen at the controls, protected by an electrical barrier.

“Doc, this is all you.” Elana said.

“Yes, I can disable it, just give me time.” Zero said, looking at it.

He begins to hack into the security controls, but suddenly, three plasma pulses are sent out of the core, striking the three. They yell in pain, as they land on the floor. 

“No!” Meritel yelled, struggling to move.

Rickter laughs, as he walks into the room wearing armor with a guard. A guard is with him. Rickter is pressing a button on his left hand that activated the plasma core.

“St-stop this madness!” Elana yelled to him, still being shocked.

“H-how is it hurting us when we don’t have armor!?” Meritel asked.

“I knew you’d be coming. I set it to attack non-armored beings in this room. This isn’t enough power to kill you three, only to teach you a lesson. Pleasure to meet you at long last, Queen Elana. I do not know how a little girl like you bested my brother, although he was always arrogant. Regardless, I am not like him. You do not want to fight me, my dark powers excel anything else in this kingdom. However, I’ll make you an offer. I know your friend there is very smart, and I could use his expertise in fixing some problems with this machine. If he refuses, you all die.” Rickter threatened.

“Don’t do it, Zero!” Elana said to him, resisting the plasma shock.

“...Fine, I will, if it keeps my friends safe.” Zero said, surprising Elana and Meritel.

“Good. Adjust the range of my weapon.” Rickter ordered, pointing his staff at Zero’s back in case he tried anything.

“...No. This isn’t right, you’re insane! I’m getting out of here!” the guard said.

Rickter presses the button again, as another plasma pulse strikes at the guard.

“GAHH!” the guard yelled, as he squirms on the ground in pain.

“Coward. Now, get to work, robot.” Rickter demanded to Zero, annoying him.

Zero then looks at Elana and Meritel briefly, winking, which confuses them. Zero works on the weapon’s controls, and after a while, finishes his work.

“There. It is done.” Zero said.

“Excellent. And now you’ll all be vaporized!” Rickter declared, laughing.

He presses the button again. However, the plasma core then shoots a blast right at him, shocking him. Elana, Meritel and the guard are freed from it. 

“WHAT, NO!” Rickter yelled in pain, as he squirms on the ground. 

“This is not enough power to kill you, I set it just enough to teach you a lesson. Not only that, but it targets all of your soldiers in this area.” Zero revealed.

The plasma core shoots multiple plasma beams all across the castle area, as they strike at Rickter’s army, surprising the heroes fighting them outside.

“Ha, you got him good, Zero! If only we knew about his trick from the start, that was close. Mom...you were right. I should’ve had a better plan before jumping right in here. I guess I got too arrogant myself.” Elana said.

“It’s okay. No ruler is perfect. I was worried because I have great fears of this place after being trapped for so long. I did not want any of you to suffer the same fate if things went awry.” Meritel said.

The guard gets up, surprised at their actions.

“You...saved me. Thank you...” the guard said, surprised.

“I’d never mistreat any of my royal guards like that. You deserve better than them.” Elana said.

Zero stops the core, as all of the soldiers on the outside fall to the ground knocked out.

“Woohoo! I didn’t even do anything to defeat them, but yay!” Nick cheered.

The pulse stops hurting Rickter, but he is out cold. Zero finishes hacking the security panel, as the electrical barrier disappears.

“Now, let us destroy this weapon of evil.” Zero said.

Zero sends an electric strike at the exposed core, as Meritel and Elana both send combined light blasts. The core overheats and breaks apart, as The Werewolf begins to shake. Zero, Elana, Meritel and the guard all escape the weapon, as Rickter is left inside still unconscious. The four escape the bunker with the soldiers. The generator explodes, as The Werewolf begins to fall apart. It explodes, with debris flying everywhere, turning the bunker into a mess. Elana’s group regroups with the remaining heroes, explaining to them what happened.

“Wow, nice job doc, never knew you had that type of sneakiness in you.” Cynthia said to Zero, impressed.

“Looks like Rickter got a heated taste of irony.” Tori said jokingly.

“Is he dead?” Nick asked bluntly.

“I don’t think so, but I don’t think he’ll be waking up for a while.” Elana said.

“Even though we lost several soldiers to its power, at least nobody else will have to suffer ever again.” Cameron said.

“Thank you, Queen Elana, her mother, fellow royal soldiers, guardians, and knights. We are finally free from their tyranny.” a civilian said.

“It was no problem. One of my duties as queen was to help unite all of Karmania, and I couldn’t let you suffer when I know you didn’t want to be seen as evil. If you all want, you could officially become an ally to Central Karmania. I understand if you decline though.” Elana offered boldly to them.

“We’ll follow you. The Shadow Lands from here onward will be your ally, Queen Elana.” a civilian declared, bowing to her.

Many other Shadow Land civilians followed suit, bowing to her. Even some of Rickter’s forces had a change of heart and bowed.

“We’ll make sure their family never tries to take control again. They will be arrested if we ever see them again.” a guard said.

“You should be our leader!” a civilian suggested.

“Thank you all. As much as I appreciate that offer, I cannot rule two kingdoms at once, sorry. You can put whoever you want in charge of this place, I’m sure whoever it is will be better than the wolf family.” Elana said.

“I’m proud of you.” Meritel said happily.

The news of Rickter’s defeat reaches all of the Shadow Lands, as many civilians cheer. A new king is crowned at the castle, who turns out to be Stanford. Many civilians cheer for him. The heroes are seen back outside The Guardian. 

“The new king is Stan? Lucky guy.” Trent said.

"He was a very active and passionate civilian towards restoring his home, he deserved it. He helped us a lot in navigating this place." a soldier said.

“At least now you guys can return to Central Karmania and help keep the defenses up. Thank you for your assistance.” Elana said to the royal soldiers.

Madison opens a portal to Central Karmania, as all of the royal soldiers head into it, and it closes behind.

“It’s been a fun and exhausting trip so far, but I think it’s time we went back home to rest ourselves. Our parents are probably worried about us.” Madison noted.

“Good point.” Audrey replied.

“Yeah, after dealing with a base attack, a crystal citadel, and this place in the past two or three hours, I need to rest.” Cynthia said.

“Aye, I need to get back to Ottelia. At least the rest of the army will be in Central Karmania for extra muscle, so I don’t have to worry as much anymore.” Flinn replied.

“Go ahead. We’ll be waiting here for when you return to the Shadow Lands.” Elana said to them, as Madison opens a portal.

“I have nowhere else to go, so I’ll be waiting here too.” Skipper said.

The guardians and knights head through it, as it closes behind. 

“Wanna play a board game?” Skipper offered to Elana to Meritel.

“...No thanks.” Elana replied.

“Alright, how about some of my classic tea?” Skipper offered.

“That will do.” Meritel replied, as Skipper begins to make tea for them.

Rickter is seen trying to get himself out of the debris and rubble in the bunker. He angrily growls.

“No...I cannot lose like this! They will pay!” Rickter vowed, walking onto the ground, and howls.

Suddenly, he is frozen solid by a blast from behind. Icy approaches the frozen Rickter, whistling.

“Whew, finally made it here, that was a long hike. Excellent, the perfect Dark elemental is mine!” Icy bragged, as she teleports away with the frozen Rickter.

Icy is seen in a secret room of her hideout. On the floor is a giant ice circle, with eighteen slots to represent the elements of Karmania. Rickter is placed in the spot with a Dark elemental symbol, as it charges. Icy hooks up wiring from the frozen Rickter to herself, as she activates the machine. She begins to drain his dark powers, laughing.

Notes/Trivia:

-Character Debuts: Rickter, Stanford, Shadow Creatures

-Second time the Shadow Lands appear.

-The Shadow Land civilians are free from the reign of Viktor’s family, and are now an official ally of Central Karmania. 

-The other Stan from “Just One Mistake” is referenced.

-

 

Rickter is kidnapped by Icy and has his elemental power stolen.

 

[TJ]

Another solid addition to the season, and great cliffhanger. It seems to me that Icy's being se t up as a major force to be reckoned with - quietly gaining power while the heroes are oblivious battling the more obvious enemies. Sort of in vain of Kuri from Storm Racers if my memory recalls.

Also, how coincidental that we both wrote about "werewolves" this week

[Metal Snake]

39 minutes ago, TJ said:

Also, how coincidental that we both wrote about "werewolves" this week

So long as they're not Bikini Top's werewolves, I don't mind.

I liked the premiere better, but this was still a good follow-up episode, even if Rickter was a dumbass to trust Zero not to use fixing his weapon as an opportunity to screw him up at the end. Glad Elana turned down the offer at the end though, that would not be realistic for her to be the leader of two places with how difficult and stressful the job of being a leader is. XD All hail Stanford J. Pines.

[SpongeOddFan]

Pretty solid episode this week. I really liked the part Elana's group getting more action that we seen it something to return after learning that villain defeated previously was his brother (funny how easy for Zero outsmart and sneaky to easily changed the course of Rickter's plan handled). Not much to say here except Icy kidnapped him at the end to steal engery source of his' ...i do wonder what's she up to lately(wish we have pondering emote). Overall, great episod, and maybe we end it up getting real adventurous with Skipper someday.  

[Jjs Goodman]

81. Season of The Beast

The heroes are seen regrouped outside The Guardian, preparing to continue their chase for The Beast’s forces.

“Alright, we’re all rested and ready to chase that weirdo down again...I hope.” Tori said unsurely.

“I doubt he got too far, something tells me he is still in this kingdom.” Meritel said curiously.

“The storm has cleared. We are clear to take off.” Zero reported.

“Good, the sooner we take down this guy, the better.” Cynthia said.

“What even is the story behind him? Why does he want to take over Karmania? Why did he possess Ramos?” Audrey asked.

“Nobody truly knows where he came from, I’m afraid, or what his real goals are. He is shrouded in mystery...” Meritel said.

“Well there’s no mystery we can’t solve! We’ll get to the bottom of whatever his true intentions are whenever we find him...if he’s even still here.” Nick said awkwardly.

“Then let’s get to it, gang!” Jake said, as they all rush into the blimp, and it takes off.

The Beast is seen with his allies in another part of the Shadow Lands, camping out in a dark forest which have several ancient ruin structures nearby. The possessed Grador is resting next to one of the structures. Beast looks at the cold leaves blowing off the dead trees, landing near his campfire. 

“The leaves blow in the direction suiting my favor and purpose. It is my season, and thus, our time to shine. Soon my brethren, us “monsters” will gain what is rightfully ours. No longer will you suffer at the wrath of royal families. I will lead you all to victory, as your king, with the generals by my side. We’ll finish what was started ages ago.” Beast said poetically to his allies, as the prisoner beasts cheer.

“He has such a way with words...” the gelatin beast said, fascinated.

“Those normal Karmanians have been dominant for far too long! It is time for us beasts to rise!” the bat creature said proudly.

“Lousy allies are what cost us the last beast war. We need stronger ones if we are to succeed this time, and this batch concerns me thus far...” Snapper said unsurely, looking at the prisoners.

“Hey, we’re strong!” the rock beast said, raising his fists.

“Do not worry. Our remaining allies will arrive as the clockwork hand strikes at the right moment. Through the shadows, my eyes await their aid...” Beast said mysteriously.

“With all due respect great Beast, I do not quite understand your philosophical metaphors...” the magma creature said, confused, scratching his head.

“Magmox, this is life. Get a bun if you cannot eat the hot dog.” Beast replied.

“...What?” Magmox asked, confusing him even further.

“Should we be leaving now? I see them coming...” the storm beast asked, as he spots The Guardian in the distance with a telescope.

“No. I want them to find us. They deserve a proper introduction...” Beast said ominously, as he kept sitting, confusing his allies.

“I am not sure if I can trust your strategy...” Nightkrow said.

“I trust him. Besides, they will not be able to handle our combined powers, especially from us Phantom Beasts.” Whiger said.

“Indeed. Do not worry. They are walking right into my checkmate, especially the red knight...” Beast said, smiling.

“Fine with me, I’m ready to crush them!” the stone beast said, smashing his fists together.

As the rest of his allies walk around the area, Beast then looks at his spell book on the ground. He picks it up, and tries to open it, but it will not budge.

“Hmph, so Tom, sealing yourself inside of my book was your grand plan? You may think you can outwit me on the chess board, but I am always three steps ahead.” Beast spoke to the book.

The spell book then magically floats out of his hands, landing on the ground right in front of him. It opens by itself, as Tom floats out of it, still chained to the book.

“Hello there. You should really clean that book, it’s so dusty...ACHOO!” Tom greeted, sneezing, and annoying Beast.

“How does it feel knowing I’ve taken away one of your fellow Council members?” Beast asked to him.

“I knew it was coming, but Cesare is in a much better place. Speaking of which, you could have just been rid of me by now, but yet you keep me around. Perhaps Ramos is the one who wants me to stay...” Tom hypothesized, confusing Beast.

“That fool has no will over this vessel anymore, he is gone. But if you’d like...you could teach me a few more spells...wait...I didn’t mean to say that!” Beast said oddly, as Tom stares at him blankly.

“Maybe your control is not as full as you think...” Tom said, winking.

Beast then angrily shuts the book, imprisoning Tom once again.

“It cannot be...could Ramos still be trying to break through? But how? His mind is too weak. No matter, as long as he does not interfere with my grand game...”  Beast said, somewhat unsurely, but shrugs it off.

The Guardian keeps flying through the Shadow Land skies, as it makes its way closer to a mysterious village in the distance. Skipper looks at it from a window.

“We should land near that village. My dark magic senses detect something ominous is there, perhaps our runaway convicts...” Skipper noted, looking at it curiously.

“There’s no other leads, so let’s go with that.” Madison replied.

The blimp lands outside the village, as the heroes get out. They make their way into the village, looking around at it. All of the houses look morbid and old as dim lanterns light up the area. A church is at the end of the town, as a crow flies on top of the bell tower. There is a strange stone circular pattern in the center of the village, which has depictions of ancient monsters on it.

“This is welcoming.” Tori said sarcastically.

“Where is everyone?” Trent asked, noticing how empty the village is, but the house lights are on, as shadowy figures watch them from the windows.

“Greetings, travelers. Welcome to Dim Village, our esteemed home.” a voice said, startling them.

A villager walks out of the shadows, approaching them. He is wearing a dreary purple outfit, and black top hat. 

“My apologies for the abrupt introduction. I am Darren, the mayor of this lovely place. We don’t get many visitors here...” Darren explained, as several other villagers walk by, with depressed looks on their faces.

“Shocker.” Cynthia replied.

“What brings you all here?” Darren asked.

“Hi, I’m Nick, Nick Carson, or Nick: The Wizard, whichever you prefer. We’re here to find a group of strange monsters, have you seen any pass through these parts?” Nick inquired.

“Yes...we saw an odd lot go into the ancient forests west of here...” Darren said, pointing westward into the plains.

“Alright, thanks for the help, sir.” Jake replied, as they are about to head off.

“Wait, don’t you want to stay here a little while longer? I hear many mysterious and dangerous creatures lurk that area...” Darren warned.

“We can probably handle it, but thanks for the concern, dude.” Cynthia replied.

“We’re in a hurry. It’s a long story, but we must stop them.” Cameron replied, as the heroes head off into the plains, while Darren watches them.

“I don’t know about you, but there’s something about that place that feels off...but maybe I shouldn’t judge.” Skipper said, having suspicions, looking back at the village.

“Yeah, I felt something weird with that guy too. I feel like they’re hiding some dark secret...” Nick pondered curiously.

“As long as they don’t bother us, then I guess we don’t have any problems.” Elana replied, as they make their way to the ancient forest.

While behind the others, Tori sees Jake and Audrey holding hands, surprising her.

“Is this what I think it is? Are they dating?” Tori asked to herself curiously.

“What are you looking at?” Cynthia asked Tori, approaching her.

“It looks like we’ve got a pair of secret lovebirds...” Tori pointed out, referring to Jake and Audrey.

“They’re a legit couple? Aww, how adorable. But how come neither have told us?” Cynthia asked curiously.

“I guess they’re shy. I’m curious how long this has been going on.” Tori wondered.

“Maybe they’re worried you’d make fun of them.” Cynthia said.

“Hey, if anything, that would be you. But we don’t mock Madison and Trent or Nick and Luna, so I wouldn’t. I’m happy for them, Audrey deserves someone, even if I didn’t expect it to be Jake of all people.” Tori replied.

“Let’s have an intervention then.” Cynthia said, as the two walked up to Jake and Audrey.

“Hey there.” Tori greeted, surprising them.

“Uh...hi?” Jake replied, as him and Audrey stop holding hands, embarrassed. 

“Hey, we know you two are in love.” Cynthia said, winking, surprising them.

“H-how did you know?” Audrey asked.

“We saw you holding hands, and I’m not sure how else to interpret that. It’s okay though, we’re happy for you two.” Tori replied.

“Oh, thanks. We were going to tell you eventually, it just wasn’t on our minds with how much else is going on.” Audrey explained.

“How long have you been dating?” Cynthia asked.

“We became official right before the base got attacked, so one day. Although...I’ve had a crush for a long time now. I first kissed him a long while ago when that music monster attacked Posidonia. It was...complicated.” Audrey confessed, referring to “Blooming Friendship”.

“Dang, and this went on behind our backs. Usually I always get wind of juicy gossip like that...” Cynthia said, surprised.

“Sorry, we didn’t know you guys would react, and I didn’t have any romantic feelings to Audrey at the time that happened.” Jake replied awkwardly.

“Well we wish you best of luck in however your relationship goes. If only I could get a special someone...” Tori sighed.

“Same here...” Cynthia said, also sighing.

“Don’t worry, I’m sure you two will find the right one someday.” Audrey replied, cheering the two up.

“Wow, you always know how to be so positive no matter what.” Tori replied.

“I guess I was raised that way.” Audrey replied, laughing.

“Your parents raised you well.” Jake replied, as Audrey blushes.

The heroes make their way to the entrance of the ancient forests, noticing many ruin structures around.

“Somehow, this place looks even creepier than the village...” Trent said, walking carefully.

“I sense the dark magic of the vile beast deep within the forests...” Skipper said, looking through the fog.

A figure wearing a purple hood with red symbols watches the heroes from on top of old ruins. It growls, and the eyes glow purple. It creepily crawls down the ruin structure, and lands on the ground, crawling into the forests. As the heroes try to walk further into the forest, the figure jumps down from a tree, blocking their path.

“You shall not pass...” the figure spoke, flashing its purple eyes, and reaching out a monstrous arm.

“Who are you?” Madison asked.

“And what’s with the lame getup?” Cynthia added.

“Whoever you are, we don’t want any trouble, but we need to find someone.” Cameron tried to reason.

“No...you will not get to the supreme one!” the figure replied, hissing.

The creature shoots out a dark substance from its mouth, as Cameron and Zero avoid it. It burns into a tree, melting it, shocking the heroes. Skipper shoots dark lightning at it, but it jumps out of the way, and crawls up a tree, hissing again.

“What...are you?” Skipper asked, creeped out.

“So much for doing this the friendly way.” Jake said, as the heroes all power up.

Cynthia makes the tree grab the creature with a branch, and flings it to the ground. Suddenly, another hooded figure appears from the side, wearing the same creepy outfit as the other.

“This is getting out of hand! Now there are two of them!” Nick said confused, striking his sword at the first, but it jumps, avoiding it.

“Be careful, whatever these things are, they’re agile!” Cameron said, swinging his sword at the other, but it also avoids every attack, jumping in the air.

“Even with a new king, there’s still evil lurking here, great!” Cynthia said, sending a rock blast at one, knocking it out of the air.

“Well things cannot change overnight, I’m sure every kingdom will have its bad apples.” Zero replied, sending electric shocks at the second hooded figure, but they resist them.

Jake and Trent both attack the second one, avoiding purple substance blasts, which burn into the ground. Tori and Audrey send water and gust blasts, knocking the creature around. Madison sends a lightning blast at the original one, knocking them down. Meritel and Elana then both send light blasts at it, sending them through the forests. Skipper throws an exploding pie at the remaining one, but the creature shoots a purple substance blast, at it, making a small explosion. Through the smoke, it looks around, but Skipper strikes it with another dark lightning blast, sending it smashing against another tree. 

“Nice work, dude.” Nick said, giving Skipper a hi-five. 

Cynthia then traps the creature with the tree branches, as Tori and Audrey freeze it in place.

“Alright, talk, creepy thing. What the heck are you?” Cynthia asked, about to remove the hood.

However, the creature flails around, and smashes right through the ice. It rips open the branches, surprising the heroes. As they attack, the creature runs off into the forests, and the other figure is also gone.

“Something tells me there’s more of them...” Audrey said nervously.

“Indeed. Tread carefully, friends...” Skipper warned, looking around through the fog.

“At least Darren was nice enough to warn us about them.” Trent said, as they continue to carefully walk through the forests, keeping a close eye on their surroundings.

Several more hooded creatures approach the forests, and look at the heroes in the distance. The heroes make their way through a clearing, as they see Beast sitting around, whistling.

“Welcome. I’ve been expecting you all.” Beast greeted cheerfully, getting up, as he walks toward them, and throws off his cape.

“Well then, you should be expecting what we’re about to do.” Jake said smugly, as they all get ready to attack.

“Go on. Strike me with all your might!” Beast demanded, opening his arms, confusing them.

All twelve attack at once. Beast casually walks out of the smoke, unscathed. 

“That didn’t even do a thing to him...” Trent said.

“He’s toying with us.” Cameron realized.

“But why?” Madison asked.

“Skipper...it has been a long while. You have sided with the enemy...how unfortunate for you.” Beast spoke to him, confusing him.

“Is this Ramos or Beast talking?” Skipper inquired.

“I...do not know. Never mind that. You are all powerful, but you cannot best me. It is time you met my allies.” Beast said boldly.

Suddenly, the ten allies all appear from different sides, cornering the heroes.

“We are Mr. Beast’s best soldiers! Prepare for trouble!” the porcupine creature said.

“Allow us to introduce ourselves!” the anglerfish creature said.

“Magmox! Stormfront! Gelatos! Batty! Stonicus! Spikeupine! Angleron!” the seven prisoner creatures said respectively, doing poses.

“You left these seven to rot in both of your prisons, but I gave them freedom in my army. Last but not certainly not least, meet these three powerful gentlemen...” Beast said, as Nightkrow, Whiger and Snapper step forward.

“Nightkrow! Whiger! And Snapper! We are the Phantom Beast Generals!” the three said, introducing themselves, surprising Meritel.

“The Phantom who?” Cynthia asked.

“The Phantom Beast Generals...they were powerful beasts that waged war against Karmanians centuries ago. They were imprisoned in the Crystal Citadel...that must be why he went there! Be careful, they are dangerous monsters!” Meritel realized.

“Great, more bad guys to remember is just what we needed.” Tori said.

“For far too long royal scum like you two have mistreated us beasts, and we will rectify that!” Snapper said to Meritel and Elana.

“What? I’ve treated beasts in my kingdom kindly, as long as they aren’t evil!” Elana replied.

“You may, but your ancestors disagree...” Beast said, confusing Meritel and Elana.

“He’s probably trying to mess with your heads, don’t give in.” Cameron said to the two.

“Wait, why did you take control over Ramos of all people?” Cynthia asked.

“I needed a new vessel, for my ancient body has grown too old. Who better but the king? He was moronic and desperate enough to listen to my promises of power as his “campaign manager”. His naiveness made him the perfect puppet to control, especially when he used the green gemstone. I manipulated him into how to find the princess, setting off this whole chain of events. Together, we will reign as the twin kings of ruin. I am your doom.” Beast spoke.

"Edgy." Tori replied.

He then makes the gemstones appear in both palms, and fires attacks at the heroes. They are able to resist them, but green flames fill the area as aftermath from the green blasts.

“Eww, he has those magic stones in his hands now?” Cynthia questioned.

“I thought both of them were destroyed?” Audrey questioned.

“Apparently not. Do not underestimate him, he was able to take down the whole council.” Meritel warned, as the heroes understand and attack at once.

“Let us sit back and see how they handle the pests...” Nightkrow said to Snapper and Whiger, as they step back.

Skipper sends dark lightning blasts at Angleron, but he absorbs them with his lightbulb, who laughs. Angleron is about to shoot a water blast from its mouth at Skipper, but Nick sends a spell blast at him, knocking him down. Magmox shoots fire blasts, and Tori sends water blasts back, as Zero deflects a fire blast with his sword. Trent fires laser arrows at Gelatos, who absorbs them, and fires gelatin blasts back. Audrey and Jake both attack Batty, as Audrey sends powerful gust blasts, but Batty resists them with her wings, and flies around. Cameron strikes his sword at Stonicus, feeling his vibrations on the ground as he stomps. Madison sends a lightning blast at Stormfront, who shoots hail back at her. Spikeupine shoots spikes from his back at Cynthia, who counters with boulders. One hits him, sending him flying into a ruin structure. Elana and Meritel charge at Beast, who carefully avoids their swords. As both swing them, he grabs both, surprising them. He rips them out of their hands, and throws them to the side. As both try to send light blasts, he then shoots electricity blasts from his blue gemstone at both, knocking them to the ground.

“Ugh...he’s tough.” Elana said, getting back up with Meritel.

Cynthia sees this, as she slams her fist, making the ground quake under Beast. He jumps off, and sends green blasts at her. She barely avoids them, and sends several rocks flying at him. Beast makes the ground quake with the blue gemstone, sending his own rocks clashing against them. He then quickly sends another green blast at Cynthia, knocking her down to the ground.

“If Ramos still has any control, I have to say, this demonic possession has made him much calmer and less irritating...” Cynthia noted, flying back up.

The knights and Skipper bash through the beasts, and go for Beast. They all strike him at once, but he blocks all of their attacks, and counters. He sends Nick and Skipper flying into each other, blasts Zero and Trent away, and sends Cameron and Jake flying away with a gust blast. The girls all attack him, but he sends attacks back, knocking them to the ground with the knights.

“Dang...he is no pushover.” Madison said.

“Had enough of my power?” Beast asked, as the seven prisoner beasts looked at them, laughing.

“We never give up!” Jake said, as they all get back up, and the prisoner beasts are ready to fight again.

“You did well my allies, but that will be enough. There are some others who wish to partake in this feast...” Beast said, confusing them.

Suddenly, many more hooded figures appear all around the area, growling.

“Who are they?” Spikeupine asked.

“They are my cultists. They worship I, seeing me as their one true deity. They are the extra help I awaited on. I’ll let my followers handle the guardians from here.” Beast said.

The Beast Cultists all continue to growl, swarming around the heroes. Beast laughs, as he begins to walk off with the rest of his allies.

“You beasts were alright, but your skills could use some work.” Snapper said to the prisoner beasts.

“Train us then, great ones!” Stormfront demanded.

“In time, we may, but only if you are willing.” Nightkrow replied.

"We'll do whatever it takes, sir." Angleron replied, bowing.

The heroes fight off against the cultists, avoiding acidic blasts. Some breathe purple fire from their mouths, as they barely avoid it.

“Take a breath mint.” Tori said, sending a water blast right at one’s mouth, and knocking them away.

Trent fires laser arrows at some, who jump up, avoiding them. Zero strikes his sword at some, sending electric shocks at one, but they resist, and send a fire blast at him, knocking him down. Cynthia hurls a boulder at one, but they jump up, and send an acidic blast that burns the boulder to pieces. Jake slashes his way through cultists, and heads after Beast.

“Jake, where are you going?” Audrey asked, sending a tornado gust at a cultist, sending them flying.

“I’m going after Beast, I’m not done with him!” Jake replied, charging to him.

“I hope he knows what he’s doing!” Cameron replied, deflecting a fire blast back at a cultist with his knight stone’s shield. 

Jake jumps up and lands near Beast.

“Beast, you’re not going anywhere!” Jake said, pointing his sword.

Beast turns around, smiling.

“Should we handle him?” Whiger asked.

“No, I will. Go on.” Beast spoke, as he walks up closer to Jake. 

Jake charges forward and attacks, but Beast avoids his sword, and punches him multiple times, kicking him down to the ground. Jake gets back up, as the two keep fighting. The rest of the heroes keep fighting off the cultists. Elana and Meritel send light blasts, knocking some of them back. Madison sends an electricity ball at a cultist, who shoots a fire blast from their mouth, clashing with it. They jump up and attack her through the smoke, as Madison shakes the cultist off, and they land on the ground. Zero attacks the cultists, as it tries to punch him, but he stuns it. Nick casts a levitation spell, levitating a cultist in the air. Nick then uses his stone’s power to jump up and strike the cultist, but they block his sword, and jump at Nick, scratching his helmet, while making creepy noises.

“Get it off me!” Nick panicked.

Skipper then sends a dark electricity blast at the cultist, sending them flying right against a tree, as Nick safely lands on the ground. Skipper notices their hood comes off, revealing a villager from Dim Village, confusing him. The villager quickly runs off. Suddenly, after being bombarded by multiple attacks, Audrey and Trent are captured by the cultists, as they try to break free.

“No!” Elana yelled, shooting a light blast, but it’s too late.

One of the cultists throws a smokescreen, as they disappear. The remaining cultists all flee the area as well. Jake returns, as Beast and his allies are nowhere in sight.

“What did I miss?” Jake asked.

“They got Audrey and Trent.” Madison said regrettably. 

“No! I shouldn’t have gone after Beast! I was too arrogant, this is my fault...” Jake said, sighing.

“No it isn’t, these cultists are strong. What happened to Beast?” Cameron asked.

“I’m not sure. He just stopped fighting me and disappeared.” Jake said, confused, as if he can’t fully remember. “But forget him, who knows where they were taken now, we may never find them...”

“Not quite. I got a look at one of those creatures when their hood was exposed. It appears these cultists are actually the villagers from Dim Village.” Skipper revealed, shocking them.

“Are you sure?” Cynthia asked.

“I knew there was something I didn’t like about them...” Nick said.

“Yes, I am quite sure. Perhaps we’ll find your friends there...” Skipper said.

“That would explain why these cultists are so close to the village. Let’s go.” Cameron said, as they head back towards Dim Village.

They enter the village, and it is empty once again. However, this time no lights are lit, giving it an ominous atmosphere. The only sound that is heard is the ringing of the church bell.

“Creepy.” Tori said.

“Nobody in sight...” Meritel said, looking around.

“Maybe we should pay Mayor Darren a visit.” Madison suggested, pointing to a building with a sign stating “Mayor’s Home”.

They all carefully enter the home, but nobody is inside.

“Looks like just an average house, nothing suspicious so far...” Nick said curiously.

Tori scans through his bookshelf, and pulls a purple book. It activates a switch, as they hear a rumbling noise outside.

“Something opened up.” Cameron said.

‘Huh, I assumed one of these books was hiding something like many old cliches, but didn’t think it was that one. Lucky guess.” Tori said, impressed.

They head outside, and see the stone pattern in the center of the village opened up, with a staircase leading underground. The heroes walk down it, as torches light the tunnel. 

“Eww.” Cynthia said, seeing spiderwebs, as they keep walking.

They hear an odd chanting noise, as they make their way further down. They see a cave entrance, and peek through it to see the cultist lair. Many of the cultists are there, unhooded, showing their monstrous villager faces. They bow before an altar. A large statue of The Beast is seen, showing him in warrior armor, and wielding a sword. Audrey and Trent are seen chained to stone tables on the altar, which looks like Beast’s face. 

“There’s Audrey and Trent, at least they’re alive.” Jake noted.

Another cultist appears on the altar, standing before them, as his eyes glow purple.

“My brethren, tonight, we shall sacrifice these two for The Beast, our emperor! He is back to unite us, for it is his season. He will most appreciate this. The ringing of the bell commands it.” the leader said, as he pulls down his hood to reveal Darren in a more monstrous form resembling Beast, and the other cultists keep bowing to him. 

“Yup, I had a funny feeling about that guy...” Nick said.

“Come on cult dudes, we’re not sacrifice material, trust me!” Trent said, trying to break free.

“Stop right there!” Madison yelled, as the heroes barge in.

The cultists all turn around, and hiss.

“Woohoo, I knew you guys would find us!” Trent said happily.

“Thank goodness!” Audrey said, as she hugs Jake.

“So, you know our secret. You will be buried with it. Destroy them!” Darren ordered, as the cultists all jump at them.

Skipper sends dark lightning at two, sending them smashing against the cave walls. Jake and Madison go up to the altar, fighting off Darren. Madison distracts him, as Jake breaks Audrey and Trent’s chains open.

“No, our sacrifices!” Darren yelled, about to a purple fire ball from his hand, but Madison sends a lightning blast, knocking him off the altar.

Trent sends laser arrows at some cultists, who counter with acidic and fire blasts, but Madison sends electricity balls at them to help. Audrey sends several gust winds, knocking some cultists back, as Jake helps her fight some more off. Tori sends water blasts, dousing some of the fire attacks. She then uses her color changing power to turn a cultist's hood blue, confusing it, as she sends a whirlpool blast at them. Nick and Zero strike their swords at cultists. Zero then stuns some, and Nick blasts the rest away with spells. Cameron punches a cultist, and blocks their fire blast with his mirror shield. The blast is sent back at the cultist, knocking them into the wall. Cynthia makes the cave quake, as Beast’s statue cracks in half. The top half goes falling, smashing down on the altar. 

“No, our great leader has been vandalized! You will pay, for the ringing of the bell commands it!” Darren said, getting back up, as he shoots multiple fire blasts at the heroes, knocking some back.

“Wait...the ringing of the bell...I think I know what’s controlling them!” Jake said, blocking an acidic blast with his shield.

“If you’re sure, get to it, as we cannot hold these cretins off forever!” Skipper said, tussling with a cultist, and tossing them to the ground.

As the heroes hold the cultists off for him, Jake rushes down the tunnel, and up the stairs. He sees the bell ringing on the church tower, with an ominous dark aura around it. He rushes to the church, and begins climbing to the top. However, two cultists chase after him, climbing up as well. One grabs his leg, and he tries to shake them off. As they pull on him, he strikes his sword, as the one goes falling. He shoots red glue onto the ground, as the cultist steps in it, getting stuck. He makes it to the top, and heads to the tower. The other cultist reaches the top, and jumps at him. He kicks the cultist off, and sends them flying off the roof as well. He then strikes his sword at the bell rope, causing the bell to drop.

“Noo!” the cultists yelled.

The bell goes rolling, as it smashes onto the stone ground. The dark aura from it fades away, as the cultists’ eyes stop glowing purple. Underground, all of the cultists stop attacking the heroes, confused about where they are. All of the villagers have been turned back to normal. 

“What is this place? Why am I in this creepy outfit?” Darren asked, taking off the hood.

The villagers are taken above ground, as the heroes explain what happened.

“I see. I remember everything now. Many decades ago, a fellow named The Beast arrived at our quiet little village. We didn’t know who he was, but he offered us to join his beast army. We refused, since we are peaceful. He then cast a curse on us, turning us into his servants of doom. Every night, when the church bell rang, we would transform into hideous monsters, who attacked innocent civilians across the lands. We had no control for the longest time, we’ve been practically been stuck in another era. I apologize for any grief we gave you.” Darren explained.

“That is some truly evil dark magic...” Skipper said.

“No problem dude, it’s not your fault you got brainwashed.” Nick replied.

“Sorry I destroyed your bell, but it was the only way to save you.” Jake explained.

“That’s alright, we’ll build another." Darren replied.

"Also sorry if we beat you guys up too badly, we didn't know you were possessed." Cynthia said, as the villagers laugh.

"It is fine, we were threats. Thank you for saving us, we are forever in your debt. Take care on your journey, and stop that monster.” Darren said, as the villagers waved goodbye to them.

“At least they were actually nice people deep down.” Audrey said.

“Yes, this is why we cannot let anyone else become corrupted by Beast’s magic.” Meritel said.

“Is what he said about our ancestors true?” Elana asked, concerned.

“Do not worry, he is likely trying to mess with our minds. Our ancestors would never do such things.” Meritel replied.

"Good work saving those villagers from the curse, Jake." Cameron said to him.

"Thanks, I'm sorry I went off like that to fight Beast, I just didn't want him to get away." Jake replied.

"Sometimes we cannot rush our outcomes, or else we'll play into his hands." Cameron replied.

"Yeah, we were no match for him. We need to prepare ourselves for next time." Trent replied, as they make their way back to the blimp.

Meanwhile, Beast is at another campsite. The prisoner beasts are all with Grador, while Beast, Nightkrow, Whiger and Snapper are near a fire.

“The cult served its purpose. The wheel spins in my favor.” Beast spoke.

“What did you do with the red knight?” Whiger asked.

“Good question. Jake Landers is a key to my plans. I put my essence in his knight stone, which will allow him to be one of my servants...” Beast revealed, having a flashback.

As Jake keeps fighting Beast, punching each other, Beast quickly grabs his arm with the knight stone bracelet.

“Jake Landers, your will is mine at last!” Beast said, confusing him, as he released a dark essence onto the red stone.

He lets go, as Jake falls back in pain. He then gets up, forgetting what happened, as Beast walks away.

“I will use him to spy on them, and in time, he will steal all of the knight stone powers for me. I have already tainted the guardian magic and Queen Elana’s powers.” Beast explained.

“Why have you chosen him?” Snapper asked.

“I saw the potential in the red knight when he impressively dealt with my invasion of Posidonia. I will bend his power to my benefit. I have the checkmate once more.” Beast noted.

“Clever scheming, you have gotten much better at this since we last met.” Snapper said.

“Indeed, and this is just the beginning of my end game. All will be aligning...” Beast said, smiling.

Suddenly, his spell book opens up. Tom appears, floating up again.

“Trying to control Jake, are we? As the watcher of the knight stones, they are not so easy to corrupt as you think.” Tom said.

“Face it, Tom. I have won. The guardian and knight magic powers have been tainted, soon belonging to me. You cannot outmaneuver me in this game of chess.” Beast said.

“Maybe I already have. Just keep going about your business though, I’m irrelevant.” Tom said, whistling.

“Silence! You have no grand plan! You are just full of nonsense and cryptic statements that mean nothing!” Beast said angrily.

He then throws the book, along with Tom into the fire, as they both burn, surprising the generals.

“You know, even though I knew this was coming, it’s still a bit of a shock. I guess that was all you, Beastie.” Tom said, neutral to the situation, as he kept burning.

“...No. That was...all Ramos.” Beast said, confused, as he stares at the burning flames.

“Might want to get that checked out. Bye.” Tom taunted, as he fades away, and the book continues to burn. Beast looks at this annoyed.

“Seems like you don’t have full control over that vessel...” Snapper noted.

“No. I do not make mistakes in my game of chess. He is too moronic to break free from my control. But perhaps his will can still appear in spades...” Beast said curiously. “No matter however, this is only just a minor nuisance, and does not hurt my overall plans.”

“The king’s personality could become a problem if you do not destroy it now. We must erase any weakness from this vessel.” Nightkrow explained.

“Very well then. Teach me your methods, great generals. I will do what I must to rid any setbacks...” Beast said to the three, bowing.

Grador flies off with Beast and his allies on his back. The heroes see him leaving the Shadow Lands, as they get into the blimp at once. The Guardian takes off, chasing him back into Cosmosos. Jake is seen in the storage room, with Beast’s essence coming out of his knight stone and eyes. The essence in both stops, as he looks around slightly confused, and shrugs. The essence keeps glowing inside of his stone, as he walks away...

Notes/Trivia:

-Character Debuts: Darren, Beast Cultists

-Area Debuts: Dim Village

-The released prisoner beasts from the Hidden Kingdom are named: Gelatos, Batty, Stormfront, Spikeupine, Magmox, Stonicus, and Angleron.

-

 

Tom burns along with the spell book, but it is unclear what his fate is.

 

-

 

Ramos is not fully gone, which was foreshadowed in the season premiere. “And you were responsible for those humiliations” is not something Beast would say, as that would not personally apply to him.

 

-

 

Jake has The Beast’s essence lurking inside of him, who will use him to spy on the gang and try to steal the knight stones. This finally fulfills the prophecy from “Ancient Ghosts” and “Night of Fear” of Jake “becoming evil”.

 

[TJ]

This was a great episode! To start off, I liked the scene with Audrey/Jake/Tori/Cynthia. I had almost forgotten that Audrey/Jake wasn't publicly known about yet. Second, the story behind the villagers and the spell that was put on them was interesting - also the fact that they kidnapped Audrey and Trent, the love interests of Jake and Madison. 

Lastly, there seems to be a recurring theme of 'possession' and self control this season between what's going on with Ramos and Beast, and now Beast having his essence inside Jake :/ . I can already tell that's not gonna end well...

[Metal Snake]

I love how Tom has no fear of death or anything in general it seems. No way is a simple fire going to kill such an awesome character. Also, yay. Jake is going to "turn evil". This is going to add some flavor to his romance with Audrey, for sure. >:)

Edited January 20, 2018 by Metal Snake

[TJ]

2 minutes ago, Metal Snake said:

I love how Tom has no fear of death or anything in general it seems. No way is a simple fire going to kill such an awesome character. Also, yay. Jake is going to "turn evil". This is going to add some flavor to his romance with Audrey, for sure. >:)

Live footage of Tom every time he opens death's door:

[SpongeOddFan]

This is really (and creepy) interesting episode as we get more insights on Beasts's plans as been planned a lot, and Jake saving the village with smart thinking of stopping   brainwashed villagers. As for this Ramos's controls seems weakening as proccess which i hope he will be free son.

Also, Tom sure is fearless oddball as it seems so...but yeah a decent episode