Mystic Guardians

[Jjs Goodman]

87. Hunt for the Crystal

The heroes are in the blimp, flying through the Karmanian skies. The girls are upset, as they explain to the guys about their encounter with Roxy in the previous chapter.

“That doesn’t make any sense, how is there a fifth guardian?” Trent wondered.

“Yeah, I thought there couldn’t be any extra guardians like knights?” Jake asked.

“Hey...I remember somewhat jokingly predicting she could be a guardian a while back. Turns out I was right somehow, even though this isn’t a good time to be proud of that.” Nick noted.

“I asked Ranen about this conundrum, who says it is possible Roxy got her powers later than you four, which has happened in the past with previous groups. Why the Council did not inform us, I am not sure.” Zero said.

“Looks like Detective Nick will need to ask Luna and Briar some questions when they’re fully healed.” Nick noted.

“Whatever the reason, something’s at work here in the magical force of Karmania. With a guardian’s power on Icy’s side, she’ll be a power to be reckoned with. You’ll have to try something to get her on our side.” Cameron said.

“That’s going to be hard since it looks like she hates us. If only we could’ve told her sooner.” Elana sighed.

“Maybe in time she’ll come to see Icy is crazy, hopefully. Our villains can never keep up their nice acts forever.” Tori said.

“That might be the best we can hope for at this point.” Audrey replied.

“With us losing Beast’s trail, I guess we have nothing else to do.” Tori said, sitting back and drinking coffee.

“He has to be out there somewhere, even if it’s in the most faraway kingdom, we’ll find him.” Madison said.

“We have an incoming distress call from Cosmosos.” one of the pilots said to the heroes, playing it.

“Never mind.” Tori said, getting up.

“Help...anyone, my ship is stranded, and my crew is gone. Please...anyone.” the voice said desperately, as this worries the heroes.

“Where in Cosmosos are they?” Madison asked, as Zero traces the coordinates of the transmission.

“The distress call was sent from this location in Cosmosos.” Zero said, highlighting it on the system’s map for the pilots.

“That’s where we’re going then.” Jake said.

“Wait, we sure this isn’t a trap?” Cynthia asked, a bit suspicious. 

“Well hey, if it is a trap, then it can lead us to one of our enemies.” Jake replied.

“I don’t know, whoever it was sounded like they were really in danger.” Madison replied.

...

As the blimp flies toward Cosmosos, the upgraded TV Bot approaches behind, seeing The Guardian in the distance. It flashes a red skull face on its screen.

“Enemies targeted. Following trajectory.” it spoke ominously, boosting its jets, and flying after them.

The blimp flies further into Cosmosos, making its way to the location of the distress signal. As it keeps going onward, cosmic creatures fly around the Cosmosos skies, as the heroes look at them in awe. One floats past, looking like a giant rainbow space serpent, with a crystal back. Another one passes by the blimp, resembling a cosmic turtle.

“Good thing those aren’t hostile.” Trent said.

“For now, at least.” Tori said.

Elana and Cynthia stare out at the skies, feeling unsure and upset about Roxy. 

“Is it all our fault?” Elana wondered.

“Maybe a little, but we had no clue she was feeling that lonely without us. But hey, look on the bright side, we saved you, I’m sure we can save her and make amends.” Cynthia encouraged, cheering Elana up a bit.

The blimp gets closer, as the heroes see a giant purple crystal from the Crystal Citadel floating off in the distance. It appears to be regrowing other crystals on it, trying to form another structure.

“Isn’t that from the Crystal Citadel?” Audrey asked, seeing it.

“Yup, looks like a lost part from when Beast destroyed it.” Jake said.

“Fascinating, it appears these crystals can grow other parts to form a structure. This explains how the citadel was built. It also floats in air due to the magic of this kingdom, giving the illusion as if it were truly in space.” Zero analyzed.

“This gives me a bad feeling...seeing how those crystals can cause explosions, what if someone got a hold of a big one like that?” Nick theorized.

“We wouldn’t want to be around when that happens.” Cameron replied.

“Let’s hope they’re not trying to get it either.” Tori said, pointing to a crashed old ship on a mountain nearby.

“That is where the distress signal was coming from.” Zero realized, as The Guardian flies down onto the mountain. 

They get out, looking around at the crash site and the old ship. It resembles a Federation ship, but it has been modified, removing the grey colors and symbol. It is colored maroon, and has several rusty plates on the exterior. The shuttle hatch is opened.

“Hello?” Madison asked, looking inside, but nobody responds.

“Interesting choice of the maroon color, even if this thing looks old.” Audrey said, inspecting the outside.

“Is that a Federation ship? It looks like junk.” Cynthia noted.

“Heh, it may be, but it’s my pride and joy. I’m glad someone heard my transmission.” a voice said, surprising the heroes.

A Karmanian walks out from behind the rocks, wearing a pilot uniform and helmet. 

“Who are you?” Jake asked.

“Name’s Quint, you may have heard of me, guardians and knights.” Quint replied, seeing the knight stone bracelets and Madison’s heart. 

“Sorry dude, we haven’t, but maybe the guys have.” Cynthia replied.

“Yes, Commander Ranen has mentioned him before. Quint is known as one of the best pilots in all of Karmania, along with being a famous rebel. His group operates in multiple kingdoms.” Zero explained.

“We never met, but hey dude. I'm Nick, or Nick Carson, whichever you prefer.” Nick greeted.

“It’s an honor to meet you, Quint. We met once before when I was training at the academy.” Cameron said.

“Right, Mr. Rhodes, it’s an honor to meet you. Sorry about the eyes." Quint replied.

“Pleased to meet you, Quint. I’m Madison, the keeper of the heart-” Madison was saying.

“No need for introductions, I know all of your names. I’ve heard quite a few things about you too, guardians, knights, and Queen Elana. Pleasure to meet you. You’ve dealt some big blows to the Federation, so you gotta be good.” Quint said, impressed.

“Why thank you.” Cynthia replied.

“Well Quint, as the queen of Central Karmania, I’m honored to have your brave team help in our fight against the Federation.” Elana said to him.

“And it’s an honor to serve you, majesty.” Quint replied.

“Is that an actual Federation ship?” Jake asked him.

“Yup, I stole that Federation ship a long time ago when they were in beta stages. My team were the first ones to get an insight into those ships for the rebellion. Some friends in Cosmosos helped us upgrade it, and it’s been our ride around since. Our team turns the worst case scenario into the best!” Quint explained.

“Nice motto.” Tori said.

“Yeah, if only my team was here...” Quint replied sadly.

“Where is your team?” Audrey asked, as this saddens him.

“Two days ago, we were chasing after a Federation ship. It was heading for that large crystal, we know they wanted it. They’ve been hunting for fragments that broke off that citadel. But they shot us down, and we crashed. The ship landed, searching for us. The soldiers weren’t like anything I’ve seen before. I escaped, but...they took my crew, my friends. I’ll make them pay.” Quint said, determined and angry.

“We’ll help you get them back.” Jake promised.

“They’re probably gone...but thanks. Deep down, I hoped they were still there, but now I’m not sure. We’ll work together to stop them from taking that crystal. They’re on it right now investigating its power and cutting pieces off. I’ve tried to repair this ship to get up there, but I’ve had no luck.” Quint explained.

“If they controlled a crystal with that size, the results would be disastrous. I can help repair your ship, Quint. We can offer you ride with us in our blimp until your ship is fixed.” Zero noted.

“Thank you, professor. That blimp there is quite an impressive mode of travel you got.” Quint said, admiring the blimp.

“Actually, maybe we should take Quint’s ship up there when it’s repaired, that way the Federation won’t see a giant blimp coming.” Madison suggested.

“Yeah, a blimp isn’t exactly the most stealthy way to approach an enemy.” Tori said.

“Good point. I like the way your team thinks.” Quint replied.

“Cameron, is this what the deer was referring to by something more sinister?” Jake asked Cameron.

“I don’t think so, it sounds like they only recently found out about this crystal. Maybe it’s a part of their plan, but not the key. Regardless, we cannot let them take that thing.” Cameron said.

“I heard whispers that the Neo Federation is working on a new type of jet fighter.” Quint said to them.

“Yeah, and trust me, as someone with a firsthand experience, it’s powerful.” Nick replied.

“Maybe for now, but I don’t think it can outmatch my trusty ship.” Quint said, as a rusty plate falls off. “After repairs, that is."

Zero fixes up Quint’s ship, as the engines start again.

“If your team can turn the worst case scenario into the best, then we can turn any non-functional machine into something functional! That may have sounded better in my head.” Nick said.

“You’ll get used to the way he speaks.” Cynthia said to Quint, as the heroes board Quint’s ship.

“I see someone came prepared.” Trent said, seeing a fridge and cabinets of food on board.

“Yeah, this ship is like our team’s home. No rest for the persistent.” Quint explained, getting in the pilot’s seat.

As Quint’s ship flies off toward the crystal fragment, the TV Bot comes to a stop. It sees Quint’s ship, analyzing it. It continues its chase from a distance, following the ship. Quint’s ship carefully flies around, as it parks behind a crystal pillar on the edge of the central crystal. The heroes get out, walking onto the crystal surface. 

“Be extremely careful, one wrong attack and it could set off the entire structure.” Zero warned, doing calculations. 

They take a look around, seeing a few normal soldiers walking around. They have set up a communicator, and have several pieces of mining equipment to carve out the crystals.

“Oh no, look...” Audrey said, noticing how many parts of the crystals had been carved out.

“Looks like they already began their mining project.” Elana said.

“That spot in particular is huge...” Trent said, seeing how a giant part of the surface was carved off.

“They already have a giant part, this isn’t good. Let’s get one of those soldiers to confess where it is.” Quint said.

The heroes power up, as they immediately attack the soldiers. 

“What, how did they know about this!?” a soldier asked, ready to attack.

“Open fire on the intruders!” another soldier said, as they begin firing at everyone.

Madison sends an electricity blast at a soldier, disabling their gun, and knocking them against a pillar. Audrey sends a wind gust at a soldier, knocking them against another pillar. Tori sends a whirlpool blast at one soldier’s gun, knocking it out of their hand. This confuses them, and Tori then uses her color changing power to turn their uniform purple.

“Purple? Purple is my least favorite color!” the soldier replied angrily.

“Sucks.” Tori replied, sending another whirlpool blast, knocking them to the ground.

Nick casts a spell, turning a soldier’s gun into croissants. Cynthia then throws several rocks at the soldier, knocking them to the ground. Jake slashes a soldier’s gun in half, and Cameron knocks them down. Quint fires his handgun at a soldier’s gun, knocking it out of their hand, and tackles the soldier. Trent, Elana and Zero all take care of the last soldier, knocking them out. 

“These guys are such pushovers.” Cynthia said.

“Alright buddy, tell me what you’re doing with these crystals, and where my friends are, now!” Quint demanded angrily to the soldier, holding them up, as the soldier appears scared. His harsh approach concerns some of the heroes.

“You don’t have to be so harsh, he’s only a grunt.” Madison said.

“No, being passive won’t always give us results. If he knows something important, Quint can get it however he wants.” Jake said, as his stone glows purple.

“No, Madison is right. I’m...sorry. I just want answers, and the safety of everyone.” Quint replied.

Jake then walks up, punching the soldier in the face, as they fall to the ground.

“Worthless fool...” Jake said to himself, as Beast’s essence fades away.

“What was that for?” Audrey asked.

“Yeah, I dislike them too, but that was a bit much.” Elana replied, concerned.

“I’m...sorry. I don’t know what got into me. I guess I just really wanted to get a confession.” Jake replied, as this makes Cameron suspicious. 

“Just relax dude.” Trent said to Jake.

“Yeah, we don’t need to be too violent to get answers.” Audrey reassured to Jake.

"You’re right, I’m sorry. I only wanted to get information.” Jake replied, feeling unsure about what just happened.

“Now then, what do you want the crystals for?” Madison asked the soldier.

“F-fine, I’ll tell you, just please no more violence! The Federation is trying to turn these crystals into weapons. We already carved out a huge portion, the crystal’s heart, which we’ll use to end you fiends.” the soldier explained, pointing to the large carved area.

“And where are my friends?” Quint asked.

“The others have some prisoners on the cargo transport, they’re probably on there. They’ve gone scouting to see if there’s other parts of the crystal around. It’s coming back soon to take the rest of the crystal, but you won’t stop them.” the soldier explained, laughing.

“They’re alive...” Quint said, surprised.

“Alright, now can we get a bit more violent?” Cynthia asked, ready to attack.

“Wait don’t-” the soldier was saying, as Quint knocks him out.

“Should we destroy this crystal so they can’t come back to it?” Audrey suggested.

“We need to get rid of it, but as much as I dislike these guys, maybe we should get them out of here.” Madison replied, seeing the soldiers.

“We can destroy it, but it would cause quite the explosion, so we would have to be as faraway as possible when it goes off.” Zero calculated.

“Alternatively, I could use a spell to transform it, but it’d take a lot of focus and power with how huge it is.” Nick said.

“Wait, not yet...perhaps we should let the cargo transport come to us. The soldier said another important part of the crystal is in it, and my friends are in there. We can destroy both crystals that way.” Quint suggested.

“I like the way you think.” Cynthia replied.

“I’m fine with that.” Jake replied, as Cameron approaches him.

“What happened back there? Is something going on?” Cameron asked.

“I don’t know, I guess my emotions got the better of me. It won’t happen again, I promise. It's weird though, it didn't feel like something I even wanted to do, but whatever.” Jake replied.

“Strong emotions can sometimes be a weakness. Never let them get the best of you, or it could jeopardize a mission.” Cameron replied, still feeling a bit suspicious on what happened.

“Yeah, Ranen said to never let any emotions cloud our judgment, especially for close relationships.” Jake said, looking at Audrey.

Madison opens a portal to Posidonia, as the heroes throw the unconscious soldiers through it.

“Just checking, do we know where they will even land?” Nick asked.

“I’m sure they’ll land somewhere safe.” Tori replied.

The soldiers all fall through a portal, landing on Rotwell’s front lawn. Madison closes the portal, as Rotwell looks out his window, seeing the unconscious soldiers.

“What the? Get off my lawn, you hoodlums!” Rotwell yelled angrily, waving his fist.

Back at the crystal, a communication comes in through the device. 

“Attention crew, my ship is coming shortly to take the core crystal away with its gravity generator. I suggest getting off as soon as possible.” the person said.

“Uh oh, let’s hope the cargo ship gets to us first.” Elana said.

“And let’s hope he doesn’t want the crystal either!” Nick said, confusing the heroes.

He points up, as TV Bot appears, flying upward in the air. It lands down onto the crystal surface, analyzing the heroes. 

“What the heck is that?” Quint asked, readying his handgun. 

“It looks like that robot we faced when we first visited Cosmosos, but I think it got a makeover.” Madison said.

“It is, and it appears to have somehow fused with the A.I. we faced.” Zero said, scanning it. 

“I would feel bad, but that thing kind of deserved it.” Cynthia said.

“Time for round two. Jake said.

“Substance is highly unstable. Must carefully strike targets.” TV Bot spoke.

It opens its shoulders, firing multiple missiles at the heroes. 

“Do not let those projectiles hit the crystal!” Zero said.

“I wouldn’t worry, since they appear to be aimed at us!” Trent said, firing laser arrows at one, stopping it.

Madison sends a lightning blast at one, causing a collision. Elana flashes a light blast at another missile, destroying it. Nick then casts a spell, turning another missile into an orange. Quint fires several shots from his handgun at a missile, stopping it, and more at TV Bot itself. They do no damage, as it flies up. The remaining heroes take care of the other missiles. They all attack at once, launching attacks, but it activates a blue shield around its body. They strike against the shield, as smoke blows off of it. It then turns both of its hands into spinning blades, as it flies around, trying to strike the heroes with them.

“How much did he spend on these upgrades?” Nick asked, jumping up and striking at it with his sword, but it doesn’t even put a scratch. 

It then whacks Nick aside with its left arm, as he slides across the crystal, and nearly falls off, but he hangs on. The TV Bot sends a plasma blast from its shoulder at Zero, who teleports out of the way in time, as the blast goes through the air, avoiding the crystals. He reappears in front, and strikes it with an electric pulse, but the TV Bot resists.

“TV Bot has obtained quite the resistance upgrades, this will be difficult.” Zero replied, striking his sword against its spinning blade hand, trying to stop it.

Quint fires a blast at its left hand blade, as it stops clashing with Zero. It then grabs Quint.

“Let go, you mechanical menace!” Quint demanded, as the heroes send more attacks, but they do no damage to it.

“How can we defeat this thing!?” Cynthia asked.

“At this rate, the only thing that can damage is itself.” Trent said.

“That’s a great idea, Trent. We need to trick it into sending one of its own attacks back at it.” Zero realized.

“Oh, hey, I had another good idea.” Trent said.

TV Bot fires more missiles, as they chase the guardians. The girls fly around, and fly right back to TV Bot. It tries to fly up, seeing their trick, but the girls fly after him. They stop, and immediately scatter, as the missiles all explode into TV Bot, sending it flying. Quint is dropped onto the crystal.

“Ha, another clever idea from your team! Turning its own strengths into its weaknesses, job well done, not even I would’ve expected that. My old fashioned weapon is no match for that thing, but your smart thinking came through!” Quint said, as they help him get up.

“We can also turn the impossible into the possible.” Madison said to him, as he laughs.

“Yeah, and magic vs. technology is a reoccurring thing for us at this point.” Tori said.

They then see the cargo ship approaching, as they hide. It parks its back onto the surface, as two soldiers get out. They look at the empty area confused.

“...Where are they?” one asked, scratching their head.

“Wait, whose ship is that?” the other soldier asked, seeing Quint’s ship.

Quint then jumps out, punching both, knocking them out.

“Let’s go.” Quint said, ready to run up the ramp.

“We can split up. Someone else is coming to take this crystal away, and TV Bot is still lurking around, so half of us can stay here on the lookout, and the other half can go in the ship.” Madison suggested.

“Sounds like a plan.” Elana replied.

Trent, Madison, Cynthia, Tori and Elana stay behind to watch the citadel, while Quint, Cameron, Jake, Audrey, Zero and Nick head toward the ship. However, TV Bot suddenly flies down again, and attacks, blocking their path.

“No, you won’t stop me from rescuing my team!” Quint said angrily, firing multiple bullets at TV Bot, but they do nothing to it again.

TV Bot’s screen then changes, as it shows Quint’s face on it, confusing them.

“No, you won’t stop me from rescuing my team!” TV Bot mimicked, taunting him. 

“What game are you playing, robot!?” Quint asked.

“I think it’s mocking you.” Audrey said.

“Stop it!” Quint yelled.

“Stop it!” TV Bot echoed back, still showing his flashing face.

“I’ll show you, wise guy!” Quint said angrily, as he runs to his ship, and the TV Bot fires two plasma beams.

“Quint, wait!” Cameron yelled, trying to stop him.

“I won’t let it stop us from getting my friends back!” Quint yelled.

The heroes send attacks back at the plasma beams, causing collisions. Quint gets in the ship, and flies it around, firing multiple projectiles at TV Bot. It uses its shield to block them, shrugging them off. 

“I’ll show you, wise guy!” TV Bot mocked, as it sends missiles at the ship. 

Quint flies around, avoiding them. TV Bot flies after, both shooting at each other. It lands on the ground, firing a plasma beam at the ship, as Quint avoids it perfectly.

“What is he doing?” Jake asked, slicing a missile.

“Letting his grudge get the best of him.” Cameron said, worried.

TV Bot fires another plasma beam at Cameron, who reflects it with his stone back at TV Bot, but it flies out of the way. The girls send more elemental attacks, but it sends more projectiles, as they avoid them and try to send them flying at TV Bot again. Quint flies his ship extremely fast right at TV Bot, but it catches him, holding on. TV Bot’s feet begin to crack into the crystal ground due to the weight, and it tosses Quint’s ship aside. Quint is able to control it, and then multiple projectiles, as they miss and hit the crystals around, causing small sparks. However, one breaks open the ground, as TV Bot falls into a deep crystal liquid pool, flailing around. Quint lands his ship, getting out, as he fires more shots at it. 

“Come on man, that’s enough. I know this is hypocritical coming from me, but I learned acting in anger isn’t always the solution.” Jake said.

“I’m sorry, I couldn’t take it taunting me. You’re right. My friends wouldn’t want to see me this way.” Quint said.

“It is alright, however, the crystal is becoming unstable. We have to move.” Zero said.

“That pool should distract it for now, let’s go.” Audrey said, as their group runs up the cargo ship ramp.

“We’ll handle him for you, whenever he gets out of there.” Tori promised, as TV Bot still flails around, trying to get out.

The second group makes their way through the hallways, carefully walking around. They peek out from a corner and see a steel door guarded by two soldiers.

“Something important is definitely there, if you ask me.” Nick said.

Nick casts a spell, turning their guns into pies.

“What the...” one of them said.

The six jump out, attacking, and knocking both out onto the ground. Quint tries to open it, but it is locked.

“Can you open this, professor?” Quint asked.

“My speciality.” Zero replied, hacking into the panel.

It opens, as they see four Karmanians in handcuffs. They are wearing gear similar to Quint’s. The four are relieved to see Quint.

“Quint, it’s really you!” one of them said, 

You...you’re all alive. I was worried you didn’t make it, but with the help of the guardians, knights, and queen, we dared to save you. I may have been a bit reckless on the way, but it was worth it in the end.” Quint explained to them, as they break off their handcuffs.

“It’s alright boss, we knew you’d find a way to save us. As you say, we turn the worst case scenario into the best!” another crew member said. 

“Pleasure to meet you, famous ones.” another crew member said, shaking Audrey and the knights’ hands. 

“Do you know where the crystal heart is?” Quint asked.

“Yes, it’s down the hallway to your right.” a crew member replied.

“For your safety, you should get out of here. We cleared the soldiers from the crystal.” Cameron said.

The four understand, as they run off, escaping down the ramp.

“The other guardians!” one said, impressed.

“That’s one part of the mission complete.” Trent said, seeing them.

“Yeah, but now things are about to get complicated...” Cynthia said, as they see a small red and gold ship approaching. 

TV Bot flies back up with its jetpack slightly damaged due to the liquid, as it looks at everyone.

“Oh dear...” a crew member said, as Trent and the girls fight it once more.

Back in the ship, the group reaches another steel door. Zero hacks into it, as it opens. An Elite Soldier is standing at the entrance, shocking them.

“Who’s there?” the soldier asked in an encrypted language.

Quint quickly shoots the Elite Soldier, knocking them down. Zero then throws a smoke bomb into the room, as more Elite Soldiers are inside guarding a metal crate.

“Look out!” an Elite Soldier yelled, as the smoke bomb goes off, blinding them. They walk through the smoke, carefully looking around.

“Were these the soldiers that attacked you?” Jake asked Quint.

“Yup, watch out, they aren’t like the other bumbling grunts!” Quint warned.

The heroes run through the room, attacking. Cameron concentrates, and slashes his sword at one’s gun. He then punches them, knocking them to the ground. Audrey avoids a laser blast from one, and sends a whirlwind blast, knocking them against the wall. Quint runs and punches another soldier, knocking to them to the ground. Another soldier fires at Nick, but he avoids and uses a spell to turn their gun into muffins. Zero then attacks, knocking them out. Jake deflects laser blasts with his sword, as Quint fires his gun. His gun blasts, Jake’s deflections, and another blast from an Elite Soldier, accidentally hit the metal crate, as the crystal is exposed. It begins to spark.

“Captain, the crystal has been compromised!” an Elite Soldier said to the captain.

“Seize fire!” she ordered to the soldiers.

The crystal continues to spark, becoming unstable. She and the other soldier escape, running through the hallways. 

“Pilot, several rebels including the knights and a guardian have hijacked the cargo! Alert Federation high command! We must get out of here immediately!” the captain reported through a communicator.

“What!? Captain, when they find out about this-” the pilot was saying.

“...It’s both our heads, I know.” the captain replied.

The heroes look at the crystal heart in the room.

“That’s a beautiful crystal, shame we have to destroy it.” Nick said.

“Should we blow it up now?” Audrey asked.

“Go ahead. Quint, you can do the honors.” Cameron said.

“With pleasure!” Quint said, firing multiple blasts at the heart, as it begins to spark and glow.

“That’s our cue to scram!” Jake said, seeing the unstable crystal.

The six all run out of there at once, as an alarm goes off through the ship. They make it down the ramp, seeing the others continuing to battle TV Bot. The crystal structure continues to become unstable, glowing and sparking.

“Area unstable. Commencing tactical retreat.” TV Bot said, as it boosts its jet, and flies away from the area.

“See you!” Cynthia taunted.

Suddenly, a voice comes on the communicator.

“Attention crew, my ship is preparing to take the crystal. I see your cargo ship is parked, what is going on?” the person asked.

“Don’t worry, I’ll handle this.” Jake said, approaching it. Hello, my team has the crystal operation covered, and your ship’s presence is creating a hassle.”

“Who is this?” the person asked from the communicator.

“This is...Admiral Skorch.” Jake lied.

“...Is this some kind of joke?” the person asked angrily, as Jake looks nervous.

“Uh oh.” Cynthia said, as the heroes overhear.

“I’M Admiral Skorch! What is the meaning of this!?” Skorch revealed, who is shown in the Battlestar ship. He is half cyborg now, with a robotic dragon eye and other implants to heal his wounds.

“Again? I thought he blew up? How many lives does this guy have!?” Cynthia asked, sighing.

“Well I did say he was probably fine.” Tori recalled.

The female Elite Soldier and the other run out of the ship.

“There’s the intruders, open fire!” the captain ordered, as they attack the heroes.

Skorch looks down from his ship, seeing this.

“Those blasted guardians and knights! Get this ship closer so I can blast them!” Skorch ordered to his one beast soldier in the ship.

Skorch’s ship moves lower, and opens fire on the heroes. Jake slides around, avoiding laser blasts from the Elite Soldiers. Madison sends an electric blast at the captain, who flies up in her jet-pack, avoiding it.

“Way to go, Admiral Skorch!” Madison mocked to Jake, flying by. 

“How was I supposed to know!?” Jake replied.

The heroes attack the Elite Soldiers. Quint fights one of them, damaging their jet-pack. He then punches them, throwing them back into the cargo ship. Trent fires laser arrows, damaging the captain’s jet-pack, as she falls. Jake goes jumping up and tackles the captain, sending her flying onto the cargo ship. The crystal from inside the ship continues to spark, as does the structure the heroes stand on. Both Elite Soldiers wake up, seeing how the crystal structure keeps getting unstable. They then run off towards the escape ship. A miniature ship detaches from the cargo transport, and flies away, containing all of the soldiers. The heroes avoid laser blasts from Skorch, as the crystals keep shaking. 

“If Skorch wants that crystal so badly, he can have it!” Cynthia said.

The heroes and Quint’s team quickly get into Quint’s ship. 

“Buckle your seatbelts passengers, this is going to be a bumpy ride!” Quint warned, as they all stand around.

“This is really cramped.” Tori complained.

Skorch’s ship keeps moving closer towards the crystal. Quint’s ship flies off back toward the mountain.

“Where are they going?” Skorch wondered.

“Sir, we’re detecting a highly unstable energy reading!” the beast soldier reported.

“Oh no...” Skorch sighed, as the crystals kept sparking, ready to explode.

His ship has gotten too close to the crystal, and it is too late to move. The crystal inside the ship and the structure itself both detonate, releasing an explosion. Both the cargo ship and Skorch’s ship are vaporized by it, as Quint’s ship is able to make it out safely.

“Pretty.” Audrey said, seeing the purple light.

"Something tells me Skorch didn't make it out this time." Cynthia said.

"Yeah, I legit don't think we'll be seeing him again." Tori replied.

“At least this ship made it out alright!” Trent said.

“I told you, this ship may be old, but nobody flies one like me!” Quint replied, laughing.

“Plus, we turn the worst case scenario into the best!” another crew member added.

The ship lands on the mountain, as they all get out.

“We owe you our lives, guardians and knights.” a crew member said.

“It was no problem. If Quint never had contacted us, we wouldn’t have known.” Madison replied.

“And I apologize for getting carried away, I couldn't afford to lose my crew, no matter what it takes. We stick together, now and forever!” Quint said.

“It’s okay, I’ve let my emotions get the better of me before too.” Jake replied.

"It's fine Jake, don't worry about it. It was a small moment anyways." Audrey reassured.

"I mean personally, I didn't really care considering it was a random grunt." Cynthia added.

“Scanners do not indicate any other lost crystal fragments, so we have prevented the Federation from obtaining the only one. They will not be able to use their power against us.” Zero reported.

“Good, because I don’t even want to think about what they could’ve used the giant one for...” Elana said.

“You’re all some of the best fighters I’ve ever seen. If you ever need our help against the Federation or anybody else, let us know.” Quint said, giving them contact information.

“We’ll definitely need a skilled pilot like you against the new jet fighter they’re making, if you want.” Cameron said.

“A fight against other ships? My speciality! Farewell friends, someday we’ll meet again!” Quint promised, getting into the ship with his crew.

They wave goodbye, as the ship flies off.

“He was a pretty cool guy, even if he got a bit carried away.” Cynthia said.

“Hmm...maybe someday I’ll also be a pilot like him. I do have a bit of experience. Detective, track racer, cowboy, wizard and pilot would all look good on a resume.” Nick pondered.

“Sure, Nick. Sure.” Jake replied, laughing, as they head back to The Guardian.

Notes/Trivia:

-Character Debuts: Quint

-Skorch survived the ship explosion in “Brak Is Back (Part 2)”, and returns again, revealing to be half-cyborg since then. However, he is actually dead for good this time due to the crystal explosion, he is not coming back again. (I promise)

-This is a rather rare instance where we see a female Federation soldier, in this case, a female Elite Soldier. 

[TJ]

Another fantastic episode. First I'd like to say that I found Quint pretty cool. I think he was a good guy, but just very desperate to save his crew. I also liked the Possessed!Jake thing coming back up. It should be interesting when that whole things reaches a boiling point. Interesting that Skorch became a cyborg after his survival, and seeing him dead for good this time is a relief, lol. 

[Metal Snake]

5 hours ago, jjsthekid said:

this thing looks like old.

does it also taste like old XD

Cool that the heroes have finally found another genuinely good guy to be their ally. Feel that they've met enough shady characters who have looked nice but have turned out to be villains, more of which I don't feel we need at the moment, even if Skorch has now gone to meet Broodwing. The twist with him turning out to be the guy on the other line was hilarious.

Edited March 3, 2018 by Metal Snake

[SpongeOddFan]

I thought this was great. Quint seems cool, but he needs to calm down when he desperate   I also liked how Skorch noticed that HE's real one that he has surivied with half cyborg , and he's gone for good. but yeah, this is kind of classic episode to me

[Jjs Goodman]

88. Champion of the Kingdom

The Guardian keeps on flying, as it heads toward a new kingdom.

“Okay, where are we heading again?” Tori asked.

“The Battle Frontier, a famous recreational kingdom known for a variety of brawling tournaments and activities where the best go to compete, testing their fighting and magic skills. Only the strongest warriors in Karmania are invited to this grand kingdom, however. The kingdom is very protective, and only the invited may enter.” Zero explained.

“So this kingdom is basically Karmania’s form of wrestling?” Cynthia asked.

“Why are we going there?” Audrey asked.

“My contact told me there’s shady activity going on at the kingdom, and I’m pretty positive Beast is involved.” Jake said.

“And who told you this?” Madison said.

“Branton.” Jake replied.

“Jake...” Madison said, sighing.

“What? Jack and Diggy have a legitimate business there. They can get us in, trust me.” Jake replied.

We’re the guardians and knights of Karmania, shouldn’t we like get an automatic pass in anyways?” Cynthia asked.

“Good point, but unfortunately this place is invitation only, unless you know special people who can get you in, like Jake does. Why we never got an invitation is beyond me...” Nick pondered.

“Eh, we don’t need an invitation to a competition to prove we’re good warriors.” Madison said.

“Yeah, I don’t really care about winning anything anyways, only to see what our favorite enigma is up to there.” Trent said.

“This friend of yours, Branton Jack, is a criminal. He can’t be trusted.” Skipper warned, approaching them.

“Hey, we used to say the same thing about you.” Cynthia replied.

“Aye, I had me reservations on Jack, but he turned himself into an okay man.” Flinn said.

Cameron is standing against a wall, feeling unsure. Zero approaches him.

“Is everything alright?” Zero asked Cameron.

“It’s Jake. My stone tells me something is wrong with his, as if it has been...infected.” Cameron explained.

“That may explain his aggressive action toward the soldier earlier. Do you believe Beast corrupted his stone like he did to Elana’s jewel?” Zero inquired.

“Perhaps. Keep a close eye on him. Our stones can resist temptation, but with Beast’s powers, I don't know how much longer Jake’s stone can hold out. I don’t want to fail him, because then I fail myself.” Cameron said, concerned.

“Do not worry Cameron, I will see if it possible to get the essence out of the stone. Unfortunately, I do not think Flinn’s curse breaking power will work. We tried it on Elana’s jewel a while ago, but it did nothing, so I am afraid it will likely have the same result here. Beast’s dark magic is too strong, even surpassing the spells Valina used. I will see what other methods I can attempt, but I cannot guarantee any will work.” Zero replied.

“My stone tells me Jake will have to fight it himself. He will have to prove he is a true knight and resist Beast’s darkness. That’s the best we can hope for at this point.” Cameron said.

The blimp lands outside the entrance to the small kingdom. They look ahead to see several arenas, including a large colosseum. Multiple tents and stands are set up, selling merchandise for both the visitors and battlers. Several beasts and Karmanians from all over the dimension are there, walking around or looking at the attractions. Nearby is a dock where many ships are parked, including Diggy and Jack’s ship.

“Sure is a lively place.” Trent noted.

“Skipper is confident they’re here, so keep your eyes open.” Cameron said.

They see Branton, Diggy and a pig creature in a construction worker outfit. They are waiting outside the kingdom gate entrance, talking, when they see the heroes.

“Hello, hello my friends! Long time no see!” Branton greeted, as the three approach them.

“Yeah, we’ve been busy. Good to see you again.” Jake replied.

“Who’s the pig?” Audrey asked.

“Why that’s Porky, our newest business associate!” Diggy replied.

“Yes, he is quite the loyal and brave hard worker!” Branton added.

“H-hello th-there friends, wel-welcome t-to the B-B-Battle Frontier!” Porky greeted, stuttering his lines like Porky Pig would.

“Forgive the lad’s speech, it’s a tragic tick.” Branton replied.

“What do you guys do here?” Nick asked.

“We sell rare and expensive merchandise to the visitors, victors, and losers at this extraordinary kingdom!” Branton explained.

“Yeah, while sailing across the vast Karmanian seas, we found many valuable treasures! We sell them for quite the handsome prices!” Diggy added, as the three laugh, with Porky snorting his laughs.

“Alright...what shady activity have you noticed going on here?” Cameron asked.

“Just recently, an odd man and his crew flew in on a strange rock dragon. According to whispers from other workers, they’ve been trying to recruit the best warriors here, though for what, I do not know. Very mysterious.” Branton explained

“Per-personally, they k-kind of creep me out.” Porky said.

“Yup, those would be the people we’re after.” Madison said.

“Now then, right this way, you’ll be our honorary special guests, none of the guards can go against that!” Branton explained, showing them towards the kingdom entrance.

“Joy.” Cynthia groaned, as the ten heroes follow the three.

They reach the kingdom gate, as Branton approaches the guards.

“Greetings fine gentlemen, these are special guests of mine, may they come in?” Branton asked.

“Fine, go on through.” a soldier replied, as they open the gates.

They all walk into the Battle Frontier, looking around the area. Nick looks at a giant colosseum nearby, as it strangely reminds him of something.

“Hey, that colosseum looks like the one from Valina’s weird dream trip a long while back.” Nick recalled.

“Oh hey, it kind of does. Weird.” Audrey said, checking it out.

“Huh, I guess dreams can predict the future.” Cynthia said, as Branton guides them to his merchandise stand, crossing a bridge.

“Any idea where these “recruiters” are?” Cameron asked.

“Nope, perhaps you’ll have to enter a tournament to meet them.” Branton suggested.

“We can’t all do it, only one should go, that way the rest of us can investigate the kingdom.” Madison said.

“I’ll compete.” Jake offered.

“Are you sure? They say this kingdom is for the best fighters, they might not be easy to defeat.” Audrey asked, concerned.

“Don’t worry, I’ve got knight powers, I’m sure I can handle whatever comes my way. Plus, I don’t even really need to win, just see if I can find Beast.” Jake said confidently.

“We can aid ye laddy, in case things go wrong.” Flinn offered.

“Yes, we’ll come with you to make sure you’re safe. Trust me, you’ll need it.” Cameron said, confusing Jake.

“Okay then.” Jake replied, still confused.

“I like that. The knights can investigate the tournaments, and we can explore the rest of the kingdom.” Madison said.

“Sounds good to me. Good luck, Jake.” Audrey said, as the girls walk off.

“Would you like to buy any of my merchandise before partaking in this tournament?” Branton asked the knights.

“Eh, why not. Might as well come extra prepared.” Jake said, seeing several potions, treasures, weapons and other fighting gear on display.

“Oh, customers already, wise choice to stop here! I recommend this rare and exquisite potion, which will give your enemy temporary blindness, no offense blue knight! Ooh, or how about this potion, which can boost your speed? And here’s a pair of powerful knuckle braces, they pack quite the punch, if you know what I’m saying!” Branton offered, showing off his merchandise.

“I think we’ll take one of everything. Never hurts to be extra prepared.” Jake said, handing Branton several Keso coins, who admires the coins in joy.

“Wise choice! Excellent pleasure doing business with you fine gentlemen!” Branton replied, as Jake takes the items.

“We’ll need a cool fighting persona name for you.” Nick noted to Jake.

“How about...Red Menace?” Trent suggested.

“I like it! I’m not expecting to get far though, I only want to get far enough to see what Beast is up to.” Jake replied.

Beast is seen in a stone room which is near the spectator box. He is watching the knights’ conversation through a purple portal. The Four Fingers, Phantom Beast Generals, Gelatos and Magmox are with him.

“They’ve fallen for my bait. Let the boy compete, and then he can show his true colors. After that, he can finally unite with me in his rightful place.” Beast said.

“Who else do you plan to gather from here?” Naja asked, skeptic.

“I’ve already recruited two old allies and several other skilled fighters. They are enough for now. If fate decides more will come to me, then so be it.” Beast explained.

“What if the knight does not join you?” Snapper asked.

“If he does not, then so be it, as tragic as it would be for him to deny this glorious opportunity. But I’m not worried, for whatever his choice, it will work in my favor.” Beast said ominously.

One of the Battle Frontier workers walks into the room, looking nervous.

“Sir, the next colosseum tournament will start in ten minutes.” the worker reported.

“Enough time for him to join.” Beast said.

“What shall you do about the girls?” Nightkrow asked.

“I’ll let the poisonous four handle them for a round two.” Beast said.

“As you command...” Gacko said.

“I would like to request using the allies you recruited for extra help, if you allow it. It would give them a chance to show off their power to the girls.” Naja said, confusing the other three.

“Very well. This would be a perfect time to test their true skills against them.” Beast replied, as the Four Fingers walk out of the room, going down a hallway.

“What are you up to?” Stingapede asked Naja.

“Trying to manipulate his own recruits and watch his work go to waste. I trust those girls can at least handle them.” Naja replied.

“Good idea sir, you would be outsmarting him.” Scorpia noted.

“He seems much more fixated on the red knight than his recruits, but this would certainly be a way to damage his army since he likely did not intend to use them this soon.” Gacko said.

The knights are seen outside, standing near a castle arena.

“Which arena should we go to?” Nick asked, looking at all of them.

“How about the colosseum?” Trent suggested.

“It appears the other arenas are full, but the colosseum has several spots open.” Zero said, reading a bulletin board.

“That’s where I’ll go then.” Jake said.

“Good luck, dude.” Trent said.

“Don’t worry, we’ll be by your side.” Cameron insisted.

“Indeed laddy, we got your back.” Flinn added.

Jake then privately speaks to Cameron.

“Alright, what’s going on, why do you want to check on me so badly?” Jake asked Cameron.

“No reason, we only want to make sure nothing goes wrong in your battles, that’s all. I wouldn’t forgive myself if something bad happened to you.” Cameron replied.

“If you say so, thanks.” Jake replied, still a bit suspicious.

Jake walks into the colosseum wearing a backpack, and enters a lounge room.

“Who are you?” a worker asked.

“Name’s Red Menace. I’d like to enter.” Jake said, showing his knight stone, surprising the worker.

“R-right this way, sir!” the worker said, escorting Jake through a hallway, as he smiles. The other knights walk up stairs, taking them to the audience seats.

As the girls walk around, Madison spots a familiar person talking to several people at the main square. 

“Hey...is that who I think it is?” Audrey asked.

They look closer, to see Merrick talking to the people. He is no longer wearing his pirate outfit, but a grey jacket and other old clothes. Upon seeing him, this shocks Madison, but also upsets her.

“What’s he doing here?” Madison wondered.

“And where’s his criminal posse?” Cynthia wondered.

“I think it’s time you gave him for a piece of your mind for ignoring you like that.” Tori said to Madison.

As several walk by Merrick, he pickpockets a few of them, smirking to himself.

“Thanks for the business, partner!” Merrick said to the passing by Karmanian, checking out some Keso coins. The Karmanian is confused, as they keep walking onward. 

The girls then approach him, as he whistles to himself, staring off into the sky.

“Hi...Merrick.” Madison greeted, startling him.

“Whoa, uh, hey...my daughter...what was your name?” Merrick asked curiously.

“Madison!” she replied irritated.

“Right! And here with your mermaid fairy friends! Yeah, what brings you to this fine place?” Merrick asked.

“We could ask you the same thing.” Tori replied.

“What happened to your citadel friends that you ran off with?” Madison asked suspiciously.

“Oh...uh...they went on a vacation! Yup, they’re fine.” Merrick insisted.

“A vacation without you?” Cynthia asked.

“Duh...yeah...this kingdom is my vacation! It’s complicated.” Merrick replied.

“I can tell.” Tori replied.

“Anything else you’ve been up to?” Madison asked, annoyed.

“Nope, just looking for sweet items I can stea...I mean con...I mean, buy from this place.” Merrick said, looking around at the merchandise stands. “Anyways, meet some of the people I’m friends with in this here place!”

Merrick runs off, grabbing a few random Karmanians walking around. He takes them to where the girls are, pretending to know them.

“Yup, these are my friends! I’m like a king to them here! I’m going to enter one of those fancy arenas and become the champion of this kingdom! Haha, yup!” Merrick said proudly.

“Who are you again?” one of them asked.

“I’m very uncomfortable right now.” another replied.

“Haha, what jokers these two are! Let’s have a celebration!” Merrick declared to them.

“Have fun with that. Madison replied uncaringly, as Merrick goes to a campfire area with his “friends”.

“This guy is a loon.” Audrey said to Madison.

“I know, but I want to know at least something about my past. Not sure how likely I’ll get anything out of him.” Madison sighed.

“He’s living in his own world at this point.” Cynthia said, as they see him acting happy and dancing around the campfire, as his “friends” just stare at him confused.

In the colosseum, Jake is seen with fifteen other contestants. One of the contestants is wearing a cloak, concealing their identity. Branton, Diggy, Porky and the knights are in the stands watching him. Beast watches him from the spectator box curiously.

“Welcome all, to the next tournament in our colosseum division! We have sixteen brave fighters entered, and only one will hail as the champion. Our first match will be “Red Menace” versus “Gamergator”!” the announcer spoke from the arena stage, as the audience goes wild.

Jake goes onto the rocky stage, as an alligator opponent approaches from the other side, known as the “Gamergator”. 

“This kid is my opponent? This won’t take long at all, don’t worry my loyal fans.” Gamergator said smugly, as his fans cheer him on, wearing gator merchandise.

“Don’t worry Jake, you got this!” Trent cheered on.

The stage rises up magically, surprising Jake. Lights flash onto the stage, and steel railings surround the perimeter of the platform. 

“Whoever is last standing in the ring, or not knocked out, wins!” the announcer explained.

A horn is sounded, as the fighting begins. Gamergator charges right to Jake, who quickly jumps out of the way. Gamergator stops in his tracks, and quickly turns around. Jake charges at him and punches his stomach with his knuckle braces. Gamergator resits them, and whacks him against a railing with his tail. His fans cheer, as the knights and Branton look worried. Jake just smiles however, and uses his speed boost potion. Gamergator charges right at him, and Jake quickly runs around the platform, avoiding Gamergator. He then runs around, chasing after Jake, and snapping his jaws. He smashes his fists onto the ground, and Jake jumps up. He zooms right into his face and transforms into the red knight, surprising the audience. He punches him multiple times into the face, knocking him against the railing.

“What a twist ladies and gentlemen, it turns out Red Menace is a knight of Karmania!” the announcer said, shocked.

“Get him, Jake! That’s my friend!” Branton cheered, speaking to the crowd around.

“Yeah, you go, dude!” Nick cheered.

Gamergator is shocked by this, as he struggles to regain composure.

“I’ll admit kid, you’re better than I thought, but can you-” Gamergator was saying, as Jake’s stone glows purple.

He then jumps up and punches him very hard in the stomach multiple times, as Gamergator tries to punch him back. Jake’s stone forms the shield to block the punch, but it looks slightly purple. As his fists hit the shield multiple times, a dark essence from the shield strikes back at his fists, hurting them. He then snaps his jaw at Jake, but he punches the jaw. Gamergator grabs him, and throws him backwards, but Jake strikes at his back multiple times. He turns back around, but Jake quickly strikes at his face again, and sends a dark blast from his stone at his stomach, knocking him down. He punches his face multiple times, knocking him out and giving him a black eye. Cameron watches this concerned, while Beast observes from the spectator box.

“Excellent, the power flows through him.” Beast said.

“One...two...three! Gamergator is out of here! Red Menace will move on in the next round!” the announcer yelled.

Gamergator’s fans are disappointed, as the stage lowers down, while others cheer for “Red Menace”. Jake goes off to the side, as Cameron and Zero approach him.

“Congratulations on your victory.” Cameron said oddly, as he looks at Jake’s knight stone, but notices it looks normal.

“Thanks, he wasn’t a real challenge. Something tells me this might be a breeze.” Jake said confidently.

“If you do not mind, I need to scan your knight stone.” Zero said, who hooks up some wires to Jake’s red knight stone, analyzing it. 

“What’s this about?” Jake asked, on edge.

“Making sure your stone’s power is safe for the remaining battles.” Zero replied, looking at the results somewhat concerned.

“Alright, thanks doc, but I’m sure it’s fine. I’m ready for the next round!” Jake said, walking off to a break room for the contestants.

“It is as we feared, there is a dark magic in his stone corrupting it and his personality. Beast is responsible for Jake’s rather violent actions lately, and something tells me he wanted Jake to compete the entire time.” Zero explained.

“So he can recruit the champion. We need to tell him to drop out.” Cameron said.

“Wait, perhaps we should let him go all the way to the top, if he can. Beast would reveal himself, and from there we can intervene, preventing him from taking Jake with him.” Zero suggested.

“Alright, but if that happens, we need to act quick. Deep down though, I know he can fight Beast’s control.” Cameron replied.

Merrick is seen still partying with his “friends”, who still sit there confused, with some joining in out of boredom. 

“Hey Madison and friends, come join the fun!” Merrick offered, wearing a dunce hat, and holding a mug.

“No thanks, we’re good.” Cynthia replied.

Madison walks over to him anyways.

“Come on, don’t bother with that weirdo.” Tori said.

“I just want to see if he remembers anything, at all, and then I’ll go.” Madison replied, sitting on a log next to him.

“Aha, I knew you’d come around, uh, Madison! How’s life?” Merrick asked.

“Fine. How’s yours?” Madison asked.

“It’s perfect, I’ve got nothing to worry about, no sir!” Merrick replied, as Madison rolls her eyes.

“I’m tired of playing around. Do you remember anything whatsoever about your past, before you got crystalized?” Madison asked.

“Ehh...maybe, maybe not. My mind is kind of a pile of mush right now.” Merrick replied, scratching his head.

“Okay, what about my mom?” Madison asked.

“She was okay, I guess, I don’t know, talking about it stresses me out.” Merrick replied, unsure.

“That’s it?” Madison asked.

“Yeah, want some gold?” Merrick asked, holding out a Keso coin.

Madison sighs, and gets up off the log, ready to walk away. Merrick looks annoyed, and also sighs.

“Wait, uh...I remember something! Yeah, I got it now! You were...uh...born on a boat, like a cargo boat or something. There was a storm. There was a sea lion, some jellyfish, and lots of seaweed. Then one day, I had to leave. I wanted to come back for you, but I couldn’t. ...That’s...true. Huh. The end!” Merrick replied strangely, telling an odd flashback with a baby Madison on the boat, surrounded by jellyfish, seaweed, and the sea lion.

Madison isn’t sure how to respond, but suddenly, a water blast hits the campfire. The people around panic, as they run away, avoiding attacks. The girls look at this, as they see the Four Fingers with three fighter recruits. One is a dolphin, another is a metal samurai, and the last is a comet creature. Their eyes are glowing purple ominously. The girls immediately transform.

“Ugh, not those four again!” Cynthia said.

“I assume those three are Beast’s recruits.” Audrey said.

“Welp, I don’t stand a chance against them. See ya, good luck daughter and weird friends!” Merrick said, as he runs away, and Madison sighs.

“Thanks for the support.” Tori said, sending a water blast at Scorpia, who quickly runs, avoiding it. 

A few civilians stay around and watch the fighting.

“This should be good!” one of them said.

Naja fires multiple poison stings at Madison, who counters them with a lightning blast, causing a collision. Cynthia hurls multiple boulders at the dolphin creature, but the comet creature bursts through them with its cosmic power. The dolphin creature sends a water blast at Audrey, but Tori is able to control it. She forms another water blast, and sends both waves at Stingapede. He sends poison blasts at her, but both waves go right through them, knocking him against a wall.

“Not bad, water girl.” Stingapede said, impressed by her skill.

Audrey sends a tornado gust at the dolphin beast, spinning them around as they try to send water blasts. Audrey then sends the dolphin spinning right into a fountain, knocking them on their head. The purple eyes on them vanish, and they fall into the water. Madison sends electricity balls at Scorpia and the metal samurai. The samurai blocks it with their sword, but Cynthia makes the ground crack under him. He jumps out of the way, and she hurls several boulders at him. He slices through one with his metal sword, but Madison then sends an electricity blast right at him, sending him smashing against a wall. His eyes stop glowing purple, as he is knocked out. The comet creature then shoots around, sending cosmic attacks at the girls, as they also avoid poison attacks from the Four Fingers. Tori sends a hydro blast at the comet creature, trying to stop its path. Cynthia uses her telekinesis power to levitate a metal statue, sending it flying at the comet creature, knocking it to the ground. It is knocked out and its eyes stop glowing purple.

“Whoa, they took out three champions...” a spectator said.

The Four Fingers and guardians are about to resume fighting, when the Four Fingers notice how the three champions lost their possession. The four stop fighting, and run off, jumping away through the kingdom.

“What was that about?” Audrey asked.

“Eh, I won’t complain.” Cynthia said, as the civilians walk away disappointed.

The three champions wake up, looking around.

“Huh...how did we get here?” the dolphin asked.

“I was last in the Battle Palace.” the metal samurai said, confused.

“The one named “Beast” said he had a mission for me.” the comet recalled.

“Don’t trust that Beast guy, he brainwashed you into attacking people. He’s a fraud. We freed you from his spell.” Madison said to them.

“Thank you, we won’t go near him again!” the dolphin said, as the three walk off.

“Where did your deadbeat dad go?” Tori asked, looking around.

“Gone, but I don’t care. I’ve accepted he doesn’t know anything, or even know what he’s doing.” Madison said, shrugging.

“Well then, let’s keep looking around to see where those poison guys went.” Cynthia said, as they search around the kingdom.

Back at the colosseum, a montage passes, as Jake faces several more opponents. The first one calls himself the “The Rock”, who he wins against without any Beast magic. His next opponent is “The Undertaker”, who he defeats with slight help from Beast’s magic, but nobody notices. This takes him into the final four, the semi-finals. The knights and Branton are impressed with him, but Cameron and Zero are still concerned. Jake then faces off against “Wolfgang”, and while the fight is intense, he is able to win in the end with the help of Branton’s blinding potion and other weapons. The crowd goes wild for Red Menace.

“Wow folks, Red Menace has made it to the final two! Now, we have our long-awaited championship battle! Our final match is Red Menace vs. Iguitor The Amazing!” the announcer yelled.

“Any of you know anything on this guy?” Trent asked to Branton, Diggy and Porky.

“Nope, never heard of ‘em.” Diggy replied.

“I hear he is a tough one!” Branton warned.

Jake goes onto the stage, as Iguitor approaches from the other side. He removes his cloak, showing an older version of him. He is wearing advanced armor, and wears goggles. Beast sees this from the spectator box, watching in interest.

“So you’re one of the new knights of Karmania, eh? I faced some knights a long time ago. Show me your true potential, boy! I, Iguitor The Amazing, challenge you to battle!” Iguitor said, ready to fight.

“No problem.” Jake replied, as the stage rises.

“NO! I WANT TO FIGHT HIM!” a voice yelled, confusing the audience.

Tusk reveals himself at the top left, who has a robot right eye now, and mechanical left arm. Metal has filled in one of his cracked tusks. He jumps right onto the stage, surprising Jake.

“We’ll take him on together!” Iguitor replied, as Tusk sides with him, and the two laugh.

“Ooh, it appears the ice cold Tusk, another famous champion, has decided to aid his friend Iguitor in a surprise tag team match!” the announcer said, as the audience cheers.

“Isn’t this cheating?” Nick asked.

“Do not worry, I trust Jake can handle both of those fools!” Branton said.

“Or this is Beast’s way to push Jake to his absolute limit...that’s why he went to this kingdom. He wanted Jake to fight all of them back to back so his power would increase, and thus allowing easier control. We fell right into his trap...” Cameron realized, confusing the other knights.

“What are you talking about, laddy?” Flinn asked.

“Beast cast a dark spell onto Jake’s knight stone, and he has been slowly controlling him. It is why he acted out on the Neo Federation soldier. We fear if Jake wins, especially with these two to boost his dark power, he will join Beast’s side.” Zero said.

“Oh man, we need to get him out of there!” Nick said, getting up.

“Can you please stop this match? We fear our friend is in danger.” Trent said to a worker.

“No can do, and besides, he looks fine to me. If the fighting gets too severe, we will intervene.” the worker replied.

Tusk pulls out an ice dagger, swinging it at Jake. He clashes his sword against it, as Iguitor strikes at him with a spike club, and he strikes his sword against it. Both punch him, knocking him to the ground. 

“WEAKLING!” Tusk yelled.

This makes him angrier, as his stone glows purple, along with his eyes. He gets up and avoids ice shards from Tusk. Iguitor swings his club at him, but Jake blocks it with his stone shield. He then hits Iguitor with it, knocking him back. Tusk turns his mechanical arm into a chainsaw, as it spins. He swings it around, slicing across the railings and stage. He sends it flying at Jake, who quickly grabs onto the arm, pulling on it. He rips it off, surprising the audience. He then punches Tusk in the stomach, and kicks him against the railing.

“GAH...NO FAIR! HE CHEATED, HE CHEATED!” Tusk yelled angrily.

“That’s pretty ironic. Also, he really needs an indoor voice.” Nick noted.

Tusk gets up, picking up his broken arm, and continues attacking. Iguitor swings his tail, but Jake avoids it and punches him again.

“We have to get in there. Zero and I can go. Flinn, you know what to do.” Cameron said, as him, Flinn and Zero power up.

Flinn shoots his grappling hook onto the stage. Cameron and Zero go across it, and land onto the stage.

“It appears Red Menace has called on his own support! Ladies and gentlemen, these are such rule breaking twists that I’m not even sure if there will be a true winner at this point!” the announcer said, surprised, as this disappoints the audience.

“What are you two doing here? I don’t need help, look at how powerful I am!” Jake said, as Zero and Cameron help fight off Tusk and Iguitor.

“Jake, that power is from Beast. He is trying to control you with this tournament.” Zero said, as he sends a shock at Iguitor.

This confuses him, as Tusk punches him once more, but Jake slashes his sword at him again. He then punches Tusk in the face, knocking him back. He continues to glow purple.

“Jake, don’t do this!” Cameron said, striking his sword against Iguitor’s club.

“You don’t understand, look how far I’ve come! I have so much power!” Jake said, as strikes at Tusk once again.

Tusk then goes falling backward over the railing.

“AAAHHHHH!!!” Tusk yells, as he hits the ground.

Jake’s entire body glows purple, as Cameron and Zero both send Iguitor flying off the stage, who also yells.

“Well folks, I would say Red Menace won, but both him and Iguitor The Amazing broke our rules! I’m afraid in the end, neither won!” the announcer said, disappointing the audience.

“I disagree.” Beast said, as he walks out of the spectator box.

He jumps up, and lands onto the stage, surprising everyone. Jake stands there, as his stone, eyes and body continue glowing.

“We’re too late...” Cameron said worried.

Jake’s armor turns dark red, transforming him into the illusion Cameron and Jake saw before as their worst fears.

“Excellent work, Jake. Your power belongs with someone like me. You can be on my side, and together, we’ll rule Karmania.” Beast offered, smiling.

“Come on man, snap out of it!” Trent yelled from the distance, as him, Flinn, Nick, Branton, Diggy and Porky are concerned.

“Oh dear, this competition took quite the dark turn, pun not intended!” Branton said.

“Hey, isn’t that King Ramos?” Diggy asked, confused.

“Sort of, kind of, it’s a long story.” Nick replied.

“Jake, don’t listen to him!” Cameron said.

Jake’s evil form then strikes at Cameron and Zero. Beast sends green blasts from his gemstone at the two, knocking them nearly off the stage. 

“I am the beginning and the end. Come with me, and we’ll make another new beginning, together.” Beast offered to Jake.

“I...nah, sorry dude. Better luck next time.” Jake was saying, when his stone shines. 

“...What.” Beast replied angrily, as Cameron and Zero are confused.

Zero, Cameron, Flinn, Trent and Nick’s knight stones begin to shine as well, glowing powerfully. Suddenly, the five knight stones release silver, blue, green, gold and white blasts, as they go flying around the colosseum.

“Pretty...” an audience member said.

The five colors then go right into Jake’s knight stone, releasing a powerful light, and starts to remove Beast’s essence from the stone. Beast ducks, and looks at the flash. This annoys him slightly, but he smiles. In the multi-colored flash, Beast absorbs energy from all six knight stones. He then jumps off the platform, escaping with Tusk and Iguitor below. The lights stop flashing, as Jake’s armor disappears. His stone turns back to normal, and Beast’s essence has been removed from it.

“...What just happened?” Trent asked, confused.

“I don’t know, but I think I liked it! Bravo!” Branton said, applauding.

Jake looks around, pleased.

“Jake, you did it. You resisted Beast like a true knight. I’m glad you didn’t fall in the end, that’s why I’ve been worried. I would’ve never forgiven myself if I lost you.” Cameron said, proud.

“It’s alright. I kind of had a feeling something was off with my stone, so I was somewhat prepared for it. I’m glad that’s over. Not sure what the knight stone stuff was all about though, but I think they removed Beast’s curse from me.” Jake said.

“Indeed, it appears all of the knight stones realized you were in danger, and after seeing you resisted his temptation, they saved you from Beast’s magic.” Zero explained.

“Never knew they could do that, but I’m grateful. I’d never abandon you guys, you’re my true friends. I guess this means I overcame that creepy prophecy the temple guard told Cameron.” Jake said.

“I suppose so, but I’m not worried anymore about it.” Cameron replied, happy.

“...Okay, folks, I don’t know what happened, but regardless, we have no winner! We’ll have to start the whole tournament over, yay...” the announcer said disappointed, as the stage lowers, and many audience members “boo” this.

“Eh, I’m not upset. I didn’t deserve to win, and I didn’t want to anyways. We didn’t need a tournament to prove we’re good fighters. Plus, we also have stopped Beast from recruiting anyone else, looks like we sent him running.” Jake said.

“I don’t think we completely put a dent in Beast’s plans, but it was a start.” Cameron said, as Branton, Diggy, Porky and the other knights meet up with them.

“Th-th-that was one sh-show, I tell you!” Porky said.

“Yeah, you all sure know how to put one on!” Diggy said.

"I never knew our knight stones could do that. I already know what it's like to be corrupted by an evil knight, and it was not fun. Good thing it didn't happen to you." Trent said.

“Thank goodness you’re alright, lad. Let’s see if we can find that monster.” Flinn said.

“He’s probably long gone by now.” Cameron said.

“I’m kind of jealous Beast wanted to possess Jake, why didn’t he try to possess me? Not that I wanted to, of course...” Nick wondered, as they walk out of the colosseum.

They meet up with the girls, as both groups explain to each other what happened.

"Yikes, good thing he didn't try possessing me. Nice job on the stones for saving you from his creepy magic." Tori said.

“I guess we both overcame something today. I’m glad you’re safe.” Madison said to Jake.

“Same here, I would’ve been so upset if you left us. I’m happy you’re alright.” Audrey said, hugging him.

“We don’t talk much, but I’m also happy you’re safe, dude. We really didn’t need another one of us turning evil after the Roxy drama.” Cynthia said.

“Sorry your true dad is still a jerk.” Trent said to Madison.

“Aye, sounds like his noggin is empty of any meaningful information.” Flinn said.

“I’m over it, but I’m sure we’ll meet him again someday. I won’t expect anything more from him.” Madison replied.

“Yeah, forget that jerk. Let him go his own path. You have two parents in Posidonia that care about you.” Jake said.

“Well then, I’m happy that you’re all happy again! Good luck hunting this “Beast” my friends! We’ll remain here and see how much money we can keep making!” Branton said, laughing, as him, Diggy and Porky head off to their merchandise stand.

Beast is regrouped with his forces, as they fly off on Grador once again.

“Sorry your plans didn’t work out so well boss, but at least we’re finally reunited after so long!” Iguitor said.

“THAT STUPID KNIGHT BROKE MY ARM!” Tusk said angrily, trying to repair it.

Beast stares off into the sky, not appearing deterred.

“My lord, you appear calm despite losing the will of the red knight and any of the recruits.” Whiger noted.

“I never intended to keep those recruits, they were a front to get them to come to me. The knights may have freed Jake, but in doing so...I now have control over all the knight stones, and in turn...everything. All I need now is a few more kingdom jewels, and the grand plan will be set into the wheel of motion. In the end, I won regardless. I have them at a devious checkmate.” Beast explained ominously.

He laughs, as his entire body glows multiple colors, showing the guardian powers, knight powers, and Elana’s power flashing on his body.

Notes/Trivia:

-Character Debuts: Porky and “Gamergator”

-Area Debuts: Battle Frontier

-The battle colosseum bears an uncanny resemblance to Valina’s from “In Dreams”.

-First appearance of both Diggy and Branton Jack since “Just One Mistake”.

-Merrick returns, who gives a vague backstory to Madison about a “boat” but seems unsure about anything on her mother. The citadel prisoners he fled off with also have mysteriously disappeared, seemingly abandoning him.

-Tusk and Iguitor are revealed to still be alive, as they rejoin Beast.

-

 

Jake is freed from Beast’s essence, but in doing so, Beast has total control over the knight stones, meaning he already had a backup plan if Jake resisted his control. He also has almost every kingdom jewel corrupted.

 

[TJ]

Excellent episode. The subplot with the Madison and Merrick was handled well. I like that we've been given a hint at a backstory, but still not too much too soon. Perhaps by the next time we see him, he will be able to recall more. Also, I really loved the battle scene of the guardians vs the three battle contestants. The plot with Jake took an interesting turn. I didn't expect everything to come out here and now, but I'm glad it did - and that Jake's stone resisted Beast's evil. Also have to say that I like the Cam/Jake friendship. On the downside, it looks like Beast has still "won". Well... we'll see what happens next...

[SpongeOddFan]

Another great episode, seeing Jake fighting against all these competiers in the battle arena was amazing. Glad Jake manged to fight off from turning into evil. As for the subplot, i guess we'll never know what happened to Madison's real parents since Merrick still being a jerk. Overall, it was one hell of action

[Metal Snake]

Marvelous episode, I love how we're at last given a glimpse of how Madison got separated from her parents and the closure on the plot with Jake being possessed by Beast was great. The inclusion of wrestler references and Porky freaking Pig was amusing, but I literally burst out laughing at Jake's abrupt rejection of Beast's offer. I always love it when action shows don't take themselves too seriously.

[TJ]

This episode continues a crossover that started with Miss Appear (Part 1) and The Quickster (Part 2), and will conclude with Knights of the Multiverse (Part 4).

NOTE: This episode takes place after "Through Fire and Flames" and before "Hunt for the Crystal"

Special Bonus Episode

 (Part 3)

Central Karmania

The guardians and knights of Karmania, along with Ranen stood before Debbie and Sandy.

"Guys, lower your swords. We don't know who they are." Madison said.

"Exactly, we don't know who they are." Jake said.

"Well, we're not hostile. My name is Debbie and this is my friend, Sandy." Debbie said.

"You guys' spaceship crashed into the ground, right in front of our base. We just need an explanation." Jake said.

"Also, what's up with your... uh... costumes?" Tori asked.

"I think their outfits are cute!" Cynthia said.

"Aww, thank you!" Debbie said, flaunting her pink cape.

"Sorry if we're coming off hostile." Cameron said, lowering his sword.

The other knights followed suit.

"It's okay. Look, our ship - the Skyripper, crashed here accidentally after a bomb was planted on it." Sandy said.

"But, where did you guys come from?" Audrey asked.

"And how did you end up here?" Ranen questioned.

"Me and Debbie come from an alternate universe." Sandy revealed.

"Whoa... really?" Trent asked.

"And here I thought you two were aliens." Tori said, laughing.

"This is weirder." Cynthia said.

"Wait, alternate universe as in parallel universe? As in more than one universe? As in multiple universes - " Nick rambled.

" - Dude, don't mean to cut you off, but you're rambling." Sandy said.

"He tends to do that." Madison said, smiling.

"On my world, I am the Universal Guardian." Debbie said.

"Interesting, these girls are the guardians of Karmania." Jake said, gesturing to Madison and the ladies.

"Oh goodness, our ship is in there pretty bad..." Debbie said, looking at the Skyripper.

"I'm not sure how we're gonna get that out of the ground." Ranen said.

"Oh, don't worry about it. Debbie will pull it out." Sandy said.

"I will?" Debbie asked.

"She can?" Tori questioned.

"I guess I'll give it a go." Debbie said, flying up.

"She can fly..." Ranen said, pondering.

Debbie grabs onto the back end of the Skyripper, using her super strength to pull the large ship out of the ground.

As she does this, the knights and guardians appear shocked.

"How... how is she that strong?" Madison questioned, in disbelief.

"In all my years..." Ranen said, in bewilderment

Debbie now holds the Skyripper above her head with ease.

"WHERE CAN I SIT THIS?" Debbie questioned, shouting from the sky.

"There's a grassy area behind the castle." Ranen called out.

The scene shifts, as we see another spaceship coming out of a breach above the Nature Wilds.

The Fireflyer lands in the Wilds.

Inside, we see Flare, Syphon, and Shadow.

"I'm receiving a video communication." Flare said, playing it on the screen.

Seid appears on the screen.

"Don't you worry. We've arrived in the universe that Debbie and Sandy breached to." Flare said.

"Good, Debbie needs to be killed. Find her on this world and make sure of it." Seid said.

"I don't understand the darn point in working with these Jelliens anyway." Shadow said, sporting a dark demeanor.

"By working with these aliens, we have the manpower to destroy the Universal Guardian for good." Seid said.

"The Jelliens' first plan went to crap! Debbie and Sandy escaped before they could be killed." Flare said.

"Flare, I expect Shadow to question everything, but... you've always been my right hand woman. No questions asked." Seid said.

"I will continue to be. I'm sorry." Flare said.

"Find her." Seid said, ending the transmission.

"Where are we anyway?" Syphon asked.

"We've landed in the Nature Wilds of Karmania, according to my readings." Flare said.

After a while, the three exited the ship.

They spot some giant wasp creatures floating past.

"Certainly looks wild..." Shadow said.

"No time to waste, we need to find the Universal Guardian." Flare said.

"Footsteps." Syphon pointed out.

From behind some trees, we see Vexacus, Morgana, and Thorn approach them.

"Well, well, well... what do we have here?" Vexacus asked.

"Step away civilians, we have business to conduct on this world." Flare said.

"We were sent here to investigate an energy surge above the Nature Wilds. I'm guessing the three of you have something to do with that." Morgana said.

"That's a nice ship." Thorn said.

"Oh, that ol' thing? I call it the Fireflyer. It's how we breached to this place." Flare said.

"We're here to find the Universal Guardian. If you have no information in that regard, then carry along and leave us alone." Shadow said.

"Does he mean one of the guardians of Karmania?" Morgana whispered to Thorn and Vexacus.

"I can't think of anything else..." Vexacus whispered back.

Flare produced a fire bolt in her hand.

"Are we good here? Or do things have to get ugly?" Flare asked.

"Flare, put the fire out. These guys look like they could be useful." Syphon whispered to her.

"It would seem you possess an incredible ability. How interesting." Vexacus said walking toward them.

"Don't come any closer - or I'll show you my ability." Shadow threatened.

"Excuse us for the bad introduction. My name is Vexacus - I'm a bounty hunter. Those two are Morgana and Thorn." Vexacus stated.

"You give me the impression that you're also looking for the guardian." Flare said.

"I don't know if we're exactly on the same page here, but I believe there's a way for all of us to get what we want." Vexacus stated.

"Are you asking us to team up with you?" Shadow questioned.

"If you're looking for guardians... we have experience drawing them out." Thorn said, evilly.

"My specialty is killing what I draw out." Shadow said, producing dark energy waves in his hand.

"Oooh, I like that one." Morgana said.

"What's your trick?" Vexacus asked to Syphon.

"I don't discuss my tricks." Syphon said, simply.

"A mysterious one. I've had enough of those." Morgana said, rolling her eyes.

"I think this is about to be the start of a beautiful partnership." Vexacus said, smiling.

"Just tell us what we need to do." Flare said.

"One word - fire." Vexacus said.

The scene shifts, as the guardians, knights, Ranen, Debbie, and Sandy group inside the base.

"Thank you guys for allowing me a space to sit the ship." Debbie said.

"How bad is it?" Jake asked.

"It sustained serious damage in the explosion - and even more when I pulled it out of the ground." Debbie said.

"It's gonna take forever to repair. We simply don't have the time." Sandy said.

"If I may - how about I fix it for you guys?" Zero asked.

"Are you sure?" Sandy asked.

"Zero's a brilliant mind. Trust me, he can have your ship fixed in a day." Madison said.

"Also, who better to fix it than a robot, huh? Well, I should say cyborg. Robot sounds cold." Nick said, thinking it over.

"Wait, cyborg?" Sandy questioned.

"Yes, I am what you'd call a cyborg." Zero confirmed.

"That's so cool!" Debbie said.

"Was it a lab accident? Mad scientist? Or... nanonites?" Sandy questioned.

"Even I do not know the full picture yet, but I'm working on it." Zero said, slightly sad.

"I'm sorry." Sandy said.

"Don't be." Zero said.

"And Jake said that you all were... guardians?" Debbie asked to the girls.

"Oh, maybe we should show them." Audrey said.

Madison pulled out the Heart, transforming the girls into their gaurdian forms.

"You guys are fairy mermaids?" Sandy asked.

"Yes! You're like the first person who didn't get confused." Madison said, laughing.

"You guys harness magic, don't you?" Debbie asked.

"We do!" Madison said.

"So do I, by the way! Not trying to step on anyone's moment, just stating a fact." Nick said.

Madison transformed the girls back to normal, as Debbie and Sandy looked on in amazement.

"I have officially seen everything." Sandy said, humorously.

"Now, you guys were saying something about being knights of the multiverse?" Trent questioned.

"Me and Sandy lead a small team of heroes that seek to protect the multiverse, yes." Debbie said.

"Well, I lead. She's the muscle." Sandy said, smirking.

"A question here... why does the multiverse need protecting?" Ranen asked.

"Good question." Madison said, looking at them.

"Because I... I tore holes into the fabric of spacetime." Debbie reluctantly revealed.

"Wait, what?" Jake questioned.

"How did you do that?" Tori asked,

"By trying to save the world." Debbie said.

"We can relate. Well, not to a screw up THAT big, but ya know, even heroes mess up." Nick said, awkwardly.

"Should we be concerned?" Audrey asked.

"I'm wondering this as well." Ranen said.

"No, no. All that means is that it's now easier for people to hop between worlds. But, we're tracking these people down and handling it." Sandy said.

"It must of got real bad, considering you two crash landed here." Tori noted.

"Actually, that was about a whole other thing." Sandy said.

"Our team got a call from a superhero on our world. She said that we were needed to help stop an alien invasion." Debbie explained.

"Alien invasion? So we were right about aliens having something to do with this." Cynthia said.

"Flash forward a few days later, all our friends and allies were replaced with impostors who tried to murder us." Sandy said.

"We barely escaped with our lives." Debbie said.

"Which led to your crash landing here." Ranen summarized.

"Exactly." Debbie said.

"Well, you're free to stay here until your ship is fixed." Ranen said.

"Thank you." Sandy said.

"Speaking of that, I'm gonna get right on it." Zero said.

"Mind if I join you, bud? Been a while since we worked together on something." Trent asked.

"Sure thing." Zero said, nodding

"Real knights, huh? You guys mind showing me some of your moves while I'm here?" Sandy asked.

"If it helps you beat aliens when you go home - then sure." Cameron joked.

As Sandy and the knights took off, we see Madison and the girls approach Debbie.

"We think what you can do is really cool." Madison said.

"I haven't even seen what you all can do!" Debbie said.

"Flying is up there on the list, certainly." Tori replied.

"Yeah, I noticed the wings." Debbie said, smiling.

"Hmm, I have a fun idea." Audrey said.

"What's that?" Cynthia asked.

"Well, we all can fly..." Audrey said.

"What are you suggesting? Like, a race?" Debbie asked.

"A race!" Audrey confirmed, excitedly.

"A sky race? Should be pretty fun." Madison said, nodding.

----

Jelliens' Mothership

On the mothership, we see the real Katherine, Peter, Melondy, Tim, Tomoya, and Marshall all locked up in prisoner cells.

"Where the heck are we?" Marshall asked.

"I think we're on a massive spaceship." Melondy said.

"After the explosion... we got kidnapped by the Jelliens. It's all fuzzy, but I remember them putting us in pods." Tim said.

"I remember that too. They put all kinds of cords around my head." Katherine said, having blurry memories.

"What were the purpose of the pods they had us in? And why did they move us to these prisoner cells?" Peter questioned.

"Tomoya, you're a scientist, what do you think?" Melondy asked.

"They were tapping into our mental processes." Tomoya said, thinking it over.

"For what reason?" Katherine asked.

"I don't know, but I wish I had my video cam. I mean, we're on an alien spaceship!" Tomoya said, switching to excitement.

Katherine tried to use her telekinesis to blast her way out of the cell.

"I can't break the glass. It's like my powers are weak." Katherine noted.

"Same here. I can't phase my way out." Marshall said.

"Maybe they have some kind of meta dampening technology in the cells." Tomoya said, barely able to produce frost.

At that moment, we see Jarvix enter the room.

"It's a Jellien." Melondy said.

"My name's Jarvix." Jarvix said.

"YOU! You're the guy who kidnapped Analise. WHERE IS SHE?" Katherine asked.

"Why isn't she in this cell block with the rest of us?" Tim questioned.

"Analise is safe, I can promise. They have her held up in another room, questioning her." Jarvix told them.

"If you guys harm her, I will tear this spaceship in half at the slightest possible opportunity." Katherine threatened.

"You might wanna be nicer to me. After all, I'm here to give you some information." Jarvix said.

"Why?" Melondy asked.

"My aunt - the Queen Jellien, just revealed to me that she had my parents executed." Jarvix told them.

"What does this have to do with us?" Marshall questioned.

"I started thinking it over. That maybe my people have gone too far in this quest for preservation." Jarvix said.

"Why were we in those pods?" Katherine asked.

"They had you all hooked up to cords that sent your mental and physical attributes to some Jelliens on your Earth." Jarvix revealed.

"I'm not getting it..." Melondy said.

"Impostors." Tomoya said, understanding.

"Wait, what?" Tim asked.

"There are Jelliens impersonating us???" Katherine questioned, in anger.

"There were, but the plan went sideways." Jarvix said.

"What does that mean?" Peter asked.

"I guess your friends on Earth must of figured it out. The Jellien who impersonated Tomoya had his implant device destroyed somehow." Jarvix revealed.

"Idiots, all of you. Debbie and Sandy were too smart to fall for your tricks." Melondy said.

"Well, the ladies certainly took off with their tails between their legs. They hopped universes, and Seid's minions were sent to find them." Jarvix said.

"Help us out of here, so we can put an end to all of this." Katherine said.

"I'm not sure I can do such, but I at least wanted you all to know what you were up against - should you escape. Oh, and by the way... this isn't just any ol' spaceship. This is the Jellien Mothership. Good luck finding your way out." Jarvix said, taking off.

Katherine sighed.

"Debbie and Sandy will get us out of this. I know it." Tim said.

----

Central Karmania

In the nearby woods, we see Debbie, Madison, Cynthia, Tori, and Audrey.

"Alright, set up the parameters for this thing!" Debbie said.

"How about from here to that big tree all the way on the other side?" Madison said, pointing.

"Sounds good. Everyone in agreement?" Audrey asked.

"Let's do this, ladies!" Cynthia said.

The five flew into the sky.

"ON YOUR MARK..." Debbie started.

"GET SET..." Tori said.

"GO!" Madison said, as everyone took off.

At the base, we see Sandy and Cameron sparring against each other in a training room.

"C'mon, Cam! Strike her down!" Nick cheered.

Jake gives him a glare.

"Oh, well I didn't mean to suggest that I wanted Sandy to lose, or that I wanted Cam to strike down a female. I-I-I just meant that he's my friend, so I wanna see him win. Not that Sandy isn't a friend, just that I know her less well." Nick rambled.

"I love that guy!" Sandy laughed, as she avoided a strike from Cameron's sword.

Sandy jumps up to strike Cameron, but he blocks with his sword, as they clash against each other.

"Give each other some space!" Jake called out.

Sandy and Cameron back up.

Cameron runs and strikes at Sandy, but she slides out of the way.

Sandy throws another slash, as Cameron manages to hit her sword out of her hand.

Sandy quickly pulls out a small knife from her sleeve, hitting Cameron's sword away with it.

Sandy grabs Cameron by the shirt, pulling him close to her.

"I guess you're the better swordsman." Sandy said.

"I guess you're better at stealth." Nick said, smiling.

"But we're both pretty good at strategy." Sandy said, as she releases her hold.

"Maybe these two need a room." Jake joked, whispering to Nick.

"Thanks for lending me your sword, Jake." Sandy said, throwing it to him.

Jake catches it perfectly.

"You're impressive." Jake said.

"Cam here is the impressive one. Amazing what the blind are capable of." Sandy said.

"Wait, you know?" Cameron asked.

"I noticed your pupils. You don't really respond to visual stimuli - you use your other senses." Sandy said.

Cameron nodded.

"I didn't mean to offend or suggest you were more or less powerful because of your blindness." Sandy said.

"Don't worry, I don't think that." Cameron said, giving her a warm smile.

"So, Sandy... how did you get the name Red Widow?" Nick questioned.

"I think that's a little too PG-13 for this nice world you got here." Sandy replied.

"Say no more!" Nick said, as everyone laughed.

Meanwhile, the guardians and Debbie were seen returning to the base.

"Ah, there you all are. Had a fun race?" Ranen asked.

The girls blush.

"You overheard?" Madison asked.

"Yes. Anyway, I have received some troubling reports." Ranen said.

"What is it, Ranen?" Audrey asked.

"Reports of massive fires in the Nature Wilds." Ranen revealed.

"Most likely not natural, huh?" Madison guessed.

"I believe it may be the work of an enemy. Perhaps a fire elemental." Ranen said.

"Fire?" Debbie whispered to herself, thinking of Flare.

"We'll check this out." Madison said, pulling out the Heart.

"Trent and Zero are busy fixing the Skyripper, but I'm sure a few of the other knights can be of assistance." Ranen said.

"I'd like to help too." Debbie spoke out.

Everyone looked at her.

"I mean, I'm not getting home until my ship is fixed. Mine as well make myself useful. After all, you guys have shown me and Sandy such hospitality." Debbie said.

"We'd love for you to tag along. Perhaps you can be something of a secret weapon." Madison said.

Debbie smiled.

In the Nature Wilds, we see Flare blast another tree with fire.

"WHEN IS THE UNIVERSAL GUARDIAN GONNA COME?" Flare asked, frustrated.

"Which guardian are you so upset with?" Thorn asked.

"Her temper tantrums are worse than mine." Morgana said.

"Ya know, I'm starting to think that you guys have no idea what we're after." Shadow said.

"Shadow's right. Explain yourself, shark face!" Flare said, insulting Vexacus.

"HEY! No one calls him shark face except me. I do it best." Morgana said.

"Guys, lets not lose our heads.  By the way, where is your quiet friend?" Thorn asked, referring to Syphon.

"Stayed behind to watch the Fireflyer. Meanwhile, I continue to waste my time burning these trees!" Flare complained.

Suddenly, a whirlpool of water is seen dissipating the flames on a tree.

"They're here!" Vexacus said, grinning.

The guardians, Jake, and Cameron arrive, walking into the clearing.

"Do you guys ever get sick of being evil?" Jake asked.

"And who are they?" Madison asked, looking at Flare and Shadow.

Flare produces flames in her hands.

"I guess she's the one responsible for the fires." Audrey said.

"Ya think?" Tori asked, sarcastically.

"None of you are who we're looking for. So, get out of our way." Shadow said.

"Wait, they're not?" Morgana questioned.

"It's time for all of you to be wiped out for good. I've grown tired of dealing with you pests." Vexacus said.

"Yeah? Well, wait until you meet her." Madison said.

At that moment, Debbie is seen flying into the area, landing on the ground with great force.

Debbie blasts Vexacus with heat vision, as he hits a tree.

"That's who we're here for! KILL HER!" Flare said, throwing fire bolts.

The heroes avoid the fire bolts, as the fight begins.

Morgana and Thorn unleash their beast forms. 

"How interesting..." Debbie said, flying toward them.

Morgana shoots a web at Debbie, as she is pinned to a tree. Jake runs to cut her out with his sword, but he is hit by a wave of dark energy, compliments of Shadow. Shadow runs to finish off Jake, but is hit with one of Tori's whirlpool blasts.

Thorn sends out a poison blast at Cameron, which he blocks with his shield. Madison creates an electric whip, hitting Thorn with it. Thorn roars in pain, sending out a poison blast at Madison. Madison flies away.

Cynthia hurls boulders at Flare, who burns through them with powerful fire bolts.

Debbie uses her heat vision to blast out of the web. 

"I'm free!" Debbie exclaims.

Audrey creates a powerful wind gust around Morgana, as she sends her flying at Debbie.

"DEBBIE, NOW!" Audrey yells.

Debbie uses the full extent of her super strength to punch Morgana mid air. The punch sends Morgana flying halfway through the Nature Wilds.

"Whoa!" Audrey said.

Cameron and Madison avoid more poison blows from Thorn, as she chases them nearby a riverbank.

Thorn, tired of the chase, jumps at them. Madison and Cameron jump out of the way as she falls into the river. Madison shoots an electric blast at the water, which electrocutes Thorn.

"I didn't exactly mean to do that. There was no other choice." Madison said.

"We can't worry right now, we need to help the others." Cameron said, as the two ran back to the clearing.

Jake, Debbie, Cynthia, Audrey, and Tori jump out of the way of Flare's explosive fire attacks.

Jake slides across the ground, landing near Shadow.

Shadow awakens, as Jake tries to slice him with his sword, but Shadow blasts it away with dark energy.

"You tried to kill me just now!" Shadow said, as they both got up.

"I don't know what came over me, but I know you're dangerous!" Jake said, putting up a fight stance.

Shadow quickly grabbed Jake's neck.

"You have no idea..." Shadow said, trying to use his dark energy to drain Jake's life force. At first Jake began to turn grey, but the effect stopped.

"What...? This usually works." Shadow said.

Jake knees him in between the legs.

"Oww!" Shadow said, as Jake punches him out.

"Give it up! You can't take all of us!" Madison said, joining the others in sending blows at Flare.

"I won't have to!" Flare said, looking at the sky.

The Fireflyer flies above, as it shoots out fire bolts at all the heroes.

"Run!" Madison yelled.

Everyone moved out of the way, as a line of fire divided the heroes from Flare, Shadow, and the ship.

"I can handle this wall of fire!" Tori said.

"Don't! Let Flare leave. She knows she can't win." Debbie said.

Flare was seen lifting Shadow's unconscious body, as she takes him onto the ship.

The Fireflyer takes off into the sky, disappearing into a breach of light.

"Syphon probably came to their rescue. On the plus side, they've left this universe." Debbie said.

"And it looks like Vexacus escaped in the heat of all this." Jake said, noticing his body's disappearance from near the tree.

----

Jelliens' Mothership

Jarvix is seen in his room, as there's a knock on the door.

"Come in." Jarvix said.

Stella and Gillard appear.

"What have you been up to?" Gillard asked.

"Nothing much." Jarvix said.

"You sure? Not visiting the prisoner heroes?" Stella said.

"How'd you know?" Jarvix asked, standing up.

"You didn't erase every piece of video footage. We heard some of what you said, you idiot!" Stella replied.

"You didn't take it to Queen Liza, did you?" Jarvix asked.

"No, we deleted it. But, you're lucky it was us and not someone else." Gillard said.

"Treachery in our society doesn't end well." Stella said.

"Trust me, I know. Liza had my parents killed for it." Jarvix said.

"What?" Gillard asked.

"How do you know?" Stella asked.

"She told me. My parents were against their 'impostor technology', and were killed for it!" Jarvix divulged.

"Her own sister... it's unthinkable." Stella said.

"There's no way to change that now. Fall in line, Jarvix." Gillard said.

"Or else what?" Jarvix asked, intensely.

"You'll probably meet a fate worse than your parents." Gillard said.

"Gillard's right. We're your friends, so listen to us. Please." Stella said.

Jarvix bowed his head.

----

Central Karmania

At the base, we see the gang telling Ranen, Zero, Nick, Trent, and Sandy of what happened.

"Well, at least Flare, Shadow, and Syphon are gone now." Sandy said.

"Yeah, gone back to our world to help an alien species take over it!" Debbie said.

"Stress is a killer, Debbie. Do not let it consume you." Ranen told her.

Debbie nodded.

"Are the repairs on the ship done?" Debbie asked.

"Yes, Zero was amazing!" Sandy said.

"You and Trent made for good help." Zero said.

"And the program we installed into your A.I system really helped speed up the process." Trent said.

"A.I system?" Jake asked.

"We call her Lillian." Sandy said.

"Cool." Madison said.

"Well, we should get going. Our friends probably aren't in the position to save themselves." Debbie said.

"Yeah." Sandy said.

"Thank you guys, for everything." Debbie said, as she and Sandy started off.

"Wait!" Madison said, as she and the girls looked at each other.

Debbie and Sandy turned around

"Me, Tori, Cynthia, and Audrey have been talking, and... we don't think it was a coincidence that the multiverse sent you guys here." Madison said.

"What are you saying?" Debbie asked.

"We think you guys were meant to meet us." Audrey said.

"Why so?" Sandy asked.

"Because we're gonna help you save your friends." Tori said.

"You guys wanna come with us?" Debbie questioned.

"You guys are in way over your head. You'll need all the help you can get." Madison said.

"This is a nice gesture, but I do wanna point out that you don't know how long this will take." Ranen said.

"Well, time moves differently on different universes. That's how it can be the middle of summer here, but late winter on our world." Debbie revealed.

"So you're saying that a week on your world could equal up to a day here?" Jake asked.

"Exactly." Debbie said.

"We wanna help them. Perhaps the guys can stay and continue our other engagements." Madison said.

"Then I wish you all good luck." Ranen said.

"Actually, I'm coming with." Jake said.

"You are?" Madison asked.

"Mom and dad would kill me if I let you die on an alternate world! So, yeah..." Jake said.

"Best of luck, guys." Cameron said, nodding.

Debbie, Sandy, Madison, Tori, Cynthia, Audrey, and Jake all boarded the Skyripper.

"This is pretty neat!" Madison said.

"I must say, it's a pleasure to be reunited again, Captain Cheeks." Lillian said.

"Who said that?" Tori asked.

"Our A.I., Lillian." Sandy stated.

Lillian's virtual head appeared over the central console.

"Lillian, nice to be reunited as well!" Sandy said.

"Did you forget about me?" Debbie asked, humorously.

"Of course not, miss Universal Guardian." Lillian said.

"So, Ranen told me you guys had a race. Who won?" Jake asked Audrey in a whisper.

"Sorry babe, the results are top secret. The world will never know." Audrey said, giggling.

"Haha, very funny. You're so telling me later." Jake said.

"Alright everyone, strap in. We're about to hop universes." Sandy said, sitting in the pilot's seat.

Madison and Jake looked at each other.

"Did you ever think our lives would get this weird?" Madison asked Jake.

Jake shrugged.

Debbie, Jake, and the guardians all strapped in.

----

Kelp Labs

At Kelp Labs, F.I.N agents were all over the perimeters.

In the main room, Director Payne addressed Tyrone and Adam.

"The bodies of the Jelliens who impersonated your friends have been recovered from multiple areas of the building." Payne revealed.

"Good - maybe now we can question the suckers." Tyrone said.

"... The mental implants in their heads had a kill switch. Once the Jelliens got sign that their impostors were discovered, they flipped the switch if you know what I mean." Payne told them.

"Murderers. They're cold blooded murderers!" Tyrone said.

"Maybe we could of seen this coming if your stupid agency had just given us the information we needed!" Adam blamed.

"You're blaming this on my agency? We don't HAVE information on these so called Jelliens." Payne admitted.

"So, F.I.N is as useless as everyone else. Not surprising." Tyrone said.

"Useless? You have NO IDEA what we've found." Payne said.

"AND WHAT WOULD THAT BE?" Sandy's voice was heard.

Sandy, Debbie, Jake, and the guardians arrived inside the room.

"You guys are okay!" Tyrone said.

"We were worried about you. Glad we don't have to be." Debbie said, smiling.

"Debbie? Sandy?" Bonnie said, walking in.

"Bonnie, hey!" Sandy said.

"Who are your..uh..new friends?" Bonnie asked.

"I'm wondering as well." Payne said.

"I'm Jake - a knight from Karmania." Jake said.

"And I'm Madison. That's Tori, Audrey, and Cynthia. We're guardians of Karmania." Madison stated.

"What the heck is Karmania?" Bonnie asked.

"They're here to help. More than I can say about your agency." Sandy said, looking at Payne.

"Guys, I'd like you to meet Bonnie Morse. She's a hero known as Black Clam." Debbie said.

"So... this world just has superheroes walking around? And aliens?" Tori asked, with a hint of sarcasm.

"Well, to be fair, yours has monsters." Debbie said.

"Beasts." Tori corrected.

"Same difference." Sandy said.

"I think we're getting off track here." Audrey said.

"Right. Payne, you were saying that you found something?" Sandy asked.

"Sightings of the Jelliens' crafts have been sparse and random." Payne said.

"True. A ship appeared once in Bikini Bottom, which kidnapped Analise." Debbie said.

"And again on the night of the explosion at the barn house." Adam said.

"Which is probably when they made the switch." Debbie said.

"Exactly, but now we know why they haven't come up on any scanning aside from those incidents." Payne said.

"I think I know what you're about to say." Jake pondered.

Everyone looked at him.

"The Jelliens aren't just from outer space. They're from another universe." Jake said.

Everyone was shocked. Sandy and Debbie looked at Payne.

"It's true." Payne said.

"That's why I haven't been able to track them. It all makes sense." Adam said.

"That's also why they haven't launched a full on invasion yet. THEY CAN'T." Sandy noted.

"What you're saying is they can't breach their entire army over to this universe. Only one ship at a time." Bonnie said.

"Well, lets be thankful that no full scale invasion is happening. However, they still have your friends." Cynthia said.

"F.I.N has found the coordinates of their mothership within this alternate universe. One benefit of the multiverse being more open than ever." Payne said.

"Great, we could take the Skyripper and go get your friends." Madison said, looking at Debbie.

"We can't. Zero's program helped the ship, but it still isn't at full power yet. I don't think it'll be able to hop another universe so soon after we just came to this one." Sandy said.

"We could wait it out." Payne said.

"No. I'm not giving the Jelliens any further opportunity or time to hurt my friends." Debbie said.

"So what do we do?" Madison asked.

"Madison, what if we could use the Heart to open up a portal?" Debbie asked.

"I don't think the Heart of Karmania is able to open a portal to an entirely different universe." Madison said.

"I have an idea, but I'm gonna need the Heart. And a lab." Sandy said.

Madison raised her eyebrows.

----

Karmania

Back on The Guardian, we see Skipper making more coffee.

"Uh, Skipper... any word from Ranen or the others?" Elana asked.

"Just that Jake and the guardians left to an alternate universe to fight aliens. But, Trent made that sound normal..." Skipper said.

"Yeah well, normal went out the window a long time ago. I think I'd forgotten how much of a shock it can be to find out something truly bizarre." Elana said.

"Like when you first found out about Cynthia and the others being Karmanian warriors?" Skipper asked, with a chuckle.

"Yeah, so I can relate to what someone else might be feeling right now." Elana said, with an expression of worry.

----

Kelp Labs

Everyone awaited for Sandy and Madison to return.

"I wonder what they're working on. It's been like an hour." Debbie said.

"Patience is a virtue, but I'm getting real antsy." Tyrone said.

In a corner, Cynthia and Audrey approached Bonnie.

"I have to say, I really like your costume. Even if there's not enough of the yellow piping you were going for." Cynthia said, examining her super suit.

"Well, thank you, but dressing in mostly black is good for covert missions." Bonnie said.

"Okay, okay, I just have to say it! I'm a big fan of superheroes and comic books, and apparently there's loads of them in this world. I'm really excited to meet the rest of your allies! NOT that I'm excited that they're kidnapped and we have to rescue them, but just that I'll get a chance to see more superheroes. Okay, now I sound like Nick. Sorry." Audrey said.

"She's a really passionate person." Cynthia said.

"I can see!" Bonnie said.

"What's the device around your neck?" Audrey asked. 

"The Clam Cry. Allows me to produce sonic waves by screaming." Bonnie said.

"Interesting. I control sonic waves. We could make a pretty great team on the battlefield one day." Audrey said.

"Looking forward to it." Bonnie said, smiling.

At that moment, Sandy and Madison returned to the room.

"Took you long enough." Payne said.

"What did you guys do?" Debbie asked.

"We went to the Skyripper, where I got the Inifinity Jewel. In the lab, I incised a small piece off and held it to the Heart." Sandy said.

"Then what happened?" Jake asked.

"The piece merged with the Heart!" Madison said.

"I ran some tests to make sure the Heart was stable and... well, it is." Sandy said.

Tyrone uploaded the coordinates to a projector screen.

"Is that where we need to go?" Madison asked.

"Yes." Tyrone said.

Madison pulled out the Heart, creating a portal.

"This needs to be a small mission. Only the heavy hitters." Jake said.

"I'm going." Debbie said.

"Me and my girls will go as well." Madison said.

"Be careful. You guys don't know what's beyond that portal." Sandy said.

"We'll be fine." Debbie said.

Madison, Cynthia, Audrey, and Tori transformed.

"Whoa, these ladies are fairies?" Payne asked.

"No, mermaids..." Bonnie said.

"A combination of both. It's the only thing that makes sense." Tyrone said, rubbing his chin.

"Okay guys, we're gonna get going." Madison said, laughing.

Going through the portal, Debbie and the guardians appeared inside the mothership's docking room.

"Are we on the mothership?" Cynthia questioned.

"This must be a storage for all their small crafts." Madison said.

"Oooh, there's a lavender one." Cynthia said, admiring it.

Suddenly, the girls heard footsteps. The five hid behind the lavender ship, as three engineers came in.

"Let's knock them out." Madison whispered.

"Anyone got a non violent approach?" Debbie questioned.

"I got this." Tori said.

Tori threw herself out onto the walkway.

"Hey, you're not supposed to be here! How'd you - " one of the engineers said.

" - Shut up and fall asleep." Tori said, using her mind control power.

The three passed out.

"Three Jelliens down, likely three thousand to go." Cynthia joked.

"Tell me about it." Debbie said.

Madison searched through the engineers' pockets.

"What are you looking for?" Audrey asked.

"Got it! A floor map." Madison said, showing the others.

"Great, let's see where they might be keeping my friends." Debbie said.

Madison opened up the map.

"There appears to be two sets of prisoner chambers on both sides of the ship." Madison said.

"We should split up and check both." Debbie said.

"There's two maps, so that can work." Madison said, handing one to Debbie.

"Uh, Audrey, wanna join me?" Debbie asked.

"Sure thing." Audrey said.

"Alright, Cynthia and Tori will go with me. Everyone keep your coms on." Madison said.

The scene shifts, as we see the heroes still locked up in their cells.

"Help is coming. I'm confident." Peter said.

"There's a control room above." Katherine said, noticing a window overlooking the cell block.

"I think I can see a guard from here." Peter said.

"Any chance they might be a nice Jellien - and ya know... let us out?" Tim questioned.

"No." Melondy said.

"I wasn't being serious." Tim said, sighing.

On the lower deck of the mothership, we see Madison, Cynthia, and Tori treading the halls.

The halls on the lower deck were quiet and very dim. 

"Footsteps!" Tori whispered, as the girls paused.

A group of Jelliens went passed, as they didn't spot the girls.

"That was a close one, but we have to keep moving." Madison said.

"HELP! HEEEELP!" a voice was heard, along with sounds of punching.

"You guys hear that?" Cynthia asked.

"I mean, it was pretty loud, Cynth.." Tori said.

"There's no time for your stupid sarcasm!" Cynthia said.

"Guys, focus. It sounds like those cries for help came from the upper level." Madison said, looking at the map.

"There's an interrogation room up there. They could have someone." Cynthia said, as also looked at the map.

"Someone they're probably torturing." Tori said, concerned.

"You two go, I'll continue on." Madison said.

Cynthia and Tori took off up a flight of stairs, as Madison continued on alone.

As Madison turned down a corner, she ran into Stella and Gillard.

"Oh crap..." Madison said, as they spotted her.

"Well, aren't you an interesting creature." Gillard said.

"She's no ordinary fish." Stella remarked, pulling out her blasters.

"I'm not - which is why you don't wanna fight." Madison threatened.

"We'll take our chances." Stella said, smiling.

Stella shot at her with the blasters. Madison created a small force field of electricity, avoiding the blows. As Stella ran at her, Madison shot the electricity at her.

"AHHH!" Stella screamed, being electrocuted.

Gillard threw a punch at Madison, as she dodged. Madison created an electric whip, striking him across the face - effectively knocking him out.

"Well, that was easy!" Madison said.

All of a sudden, Madison heard a whoosh. Seid appeared, using his speed to quickly pin Madison against a wall.

"I don't know who you are, but as I don't have time for explanations, I'm just going to get rid of you." Seid said, holding her by the neck.

"I'm no-t ea-sy to get rid of!" Madison said, managing to zap him back with electricity.

As Madison regained her posture, Seid used his super speed to quickly punch her out.

"Hmm... interesting specimen. Maybe I won't get rid of you so soon." Seid said, smiling.

In the control room, we see a Jellien guard listening to a music device. Suddenly, the door is blasted open by Debbie's laser beams.

"HEY!" the man said, pulling out his ear phones.

Debbie and Audrey walk in.

"Alright, you can make this really easy or really hard." Debbie said.

The man jumped out of his chair, reaching for his blasters. Audrey quickly sent him flying back with a wind gust.

"Nice work. Now let's get the heroes out of their cells." Debbie said, approaching a control panel.

In the prisoner block below, we see the cells open up.

"... This is weird." Katherine said, stepping out.

"I knew rescue was on it's way!" Peter said.

"Was it Debs and Sandy?" Marshall questioned.

"Actually, it was Debs and Audrey." Debbie said, walking into the room.

"Debbie!" Marshall and Tomoya both cheered.

"Who's your friend?" Tim asked.

"I'm Audrey... and you're Barnacle Boy!" Audrey said.

"Uh, well I guess my costume gives that away." Tim said, laughing.

Audrey is seen containing her excitement.

"Are you okay?" Tim asked.

"Sorry! It's just, where I come from, I have all your comic books!" Audrey said.

"She's a passionate comic book and superhero fan." Debbie said, smiling.

"She's also half mermaid, half... fairy? Where did you say she was from again?" Katherine asked, skeptical.

"I didn't." Debbie said, side eyeing Katherine.

"I'm from another universe." Audrey said.

"Wow, okay..." Katherine said.

"Ya know what, we need to get back to the docking room and wait for the others." Debbie said.

"There are others?" Katherine asked.

"Let's just get going." Marshall said.
 
The scene shifts, as we see Analise strapped to a chair inside the interrogation room.

A Jellien stood before her, as he punches her in the face again.

"Now, give us what we want and this can stop." the man said.

"I'll never tell you anything about my friends." Analise said, spitting out blood.

"Then you'll die." the man threatened.

Analise looks at a clock in the room.

"Actually in three seconds, two girls will come in here and free me." Analise said.

"Wait, what?" the man asked.

Cynthia and Tori barge into the room.

"Told ya." Analise said, rolling her eyes.

The man turns around, as Cynthia uses telekinesis to hit him over the head with a pipe.

"Gotta love conveniently placed pipes." Cynthia joked.

Tori frees Analise from her binds.

"Took you guys long enough." Analise said.

"You knew we were coming?" Tori questioned.

"Yes. You're Tori and you're Cynthia. I would of waited for the introductions to play out, but I don't think we have the time." Analise said, stretching.

"How do you know all this?" Cynthia asked.

"Oh, I'm psychic. Had a vision where all this played out already." Analise revealed.

"As cool as that is, and as much as I wanna discuss it... we need to - " Tori started.

" - Go find Madison." Analise finished, as she started out the door.

Tori and Cynthia gave each other an odd glare.

The scene shifts, as we see Madison hand-cuffed to a bed in a hospital-like room.

"Rise and shine, young lady." Seid said, creepily.

"Let me go!" Madison said, shaking the cuffs.

"You're a very interesting creature, you know that?" Seid asked.

"I'm not a creature. I think that title is reserved for your predatory behavior. I mean, having me hand cuffed to this bed? I don't know what you're into, but I want no parts in it." Madison said.

"That's funny, because you made yourself a part of it. I'm assuming you came here with Debbie Rechid in order to rescue her superhero friends." Seid said.

"Why are you working with hostile aliens if you aren't one?" Madison asked.

"It's all about power with me. Right now, I'm quite interested in your power." Seid said, stroking her cheek.

"Get away from me!" Madison said.

"Me and you are going to get very personal, very soon. I'd like to dissect you - and find out what makes you tic." Seid said, walking in circles.

"If you hurt me... my brother and his army will find you." Madison threatened.

"Are you talking about those silly knights of Karmania? That's where you're from, right?" Seid asked.

"How do you know?" Madison asked.

"Fun fact... I've been to your universe before. I actually sent some associates there recently to take out Debbie and Sandy Cheeks." Seid revealed.

"Flare and Shadow? You should know that they failed. You will too." Madison said.

Seid began to vibrate his hand, as he was about to stick it through Madison's heart.

"STOP!" a voice was heard.

Queen Liza entered.

"Excuse me?" Seid questioned.

"You will not kill her. In fact, this girl is needed to get back to her friends." Liza said.

"Why are you doing this?" Seid asked, curious.

"You're the Queen of the Jelliens?" Madison asked.

"And you're a guardian of Karmania." Liza said, pulling out the Heart.

"Give that to me!" Madison said, angrily.

"Release her, Seid. She's the only one who can get her allies off this ship and back home." Liza said.

"Debbie's here?" Seid asked.

"I've gotten reports of a prison break." Liza told him.

"So we're just gonna let them get away?" Seid asked.

"I gave you an order." Liza said.

"I'm not one of your people." Seid said.

"No, but you're on my ship. And remember, this is a partnership." Liza said.

"Fine." Seid said, unlocking Madison's cuffs.

As Madison got up, Liza handed her the Heart.

"Uh... thanks?" Madison said, taking off.

"What is your play here, Liza?" Seid asked.

"Our little superhero friends have already played themselves." Liza hinted.

In the docking room, we see Debbie, Audrey, and the rescued heroes.

"Alright, lemme see if I got this!" Audrey said.

"Go!" Melondy said.

"Melondy." Audrey said, pointing at her.

"Lady Quick." Melondy said.

"Katherine." Audrey said, pointing at her.

"Miss Appear." Katherine said.

"Tim." Audrey said, pointing at him.

"Barnacle Boy." Tim said.

"Tomoya." Audrey said, pointing at him.

"Cold Reef!" Tomoya said, excitedly.

"Peter." Audrey said, pointing at him.

"The Quickster." Peter said.

"Aaaand... Marshall." Audrey said, pointing at him.

"Crossfade." Marshall said.

"YES!" Audrey said, successfully remember their names.

At that moment, we see Madison, Analise, Cynthia, and Tori enter.

"ANALISE!" Katherine yelled, running to hug her.

"I missed you so much." Analise said, squeezing her tight.

"Hey, Madison... you seemed pretty shaken when we ran into you in the hall. Everything okay?" Cynthia asked in a whisper.

"Fine." Madison said, giving a half-hearted smile.

"Alright Madison, open up the portal back home." Debbie said.

The portal opened to Kelp Labs, as the heroes all stepped out.

Sandy, Bonnie, Adam, Tyrone, Jake and all the F.I.N agents cheered, as they were thankful that the mission was a success.

"You brought them all home." Sandy said, hugging Debbie.

"We did." Debbie said, grasping Sandy's hands.

Jake and Audrey were seen hugging.

"How was it?" Jake asked.

"It was actually quite a rush." Audrey said, smiling.

"I'm glad we were able to help..." Madisons said, walking over to them.

"Yeah, now we can get home." Jake said.

"Maybe not yet, bro." Madison said, feeling guilty.

"Madison, you look sick. Are you okay?" Jake asked.

"I need to talk to Debbie." Madison said.

Madison pulled Debbie into a secluded corner.

"Mads, what's up?" Debbie asked.

"I was separated from Tori and Cynthia for a time. I ran into this speedster guy, and he clocked me." Madison told her.

"Well... obviously you're okay now." Debbie said.

"That's not the end of it. When I woke up, the Queen of the Jelliens, Liza... had the Heart." Madison said.

"And she gave it back to you...?" Debbie said, thinking it was strange.

"She MADE Seid let me go first. After that, she gave me the Heart and just let all of us escape." Madison said.

"That's weird... but, why are you worried?" Debbie asked.

"You're not getting it. I think the Jelliens may have derived power or specs from the Heart in order to increase the power in their dimension breaching technology." Madison theorized.

Debbie's eyes opened wide.

"I'm so sorry." Madison said.

"Everything okay over here?" Jake asked, as everyone in the room stared at them.

"No..." Debbie said.

"Debbie... what's wrong?" Payne questioned.

"We need to prepare for full scale invasion." Debbie announced.

TO.BE.CONTINUED

Notes/Trivia:

-Character Debuts: (all from alternate universes) Debbie Rechid/Universal Guardian, Sandy Cheeks/Red Widow, Flare, Shadow, Syphon, Katherine/Miss Appear, Peter/The Quickster, Melondy/Lady Quick, Tim/Barnacle Boy, Marshall/Crossfade, Seid, Director Payne, Bonnie Morse/Black Clam, Tyrone, Adam, Queen Liza, Jarvix, Stella, Gillard.

-Area Debuts: Teenjverse (New Kelp City, Kelp Labs), Unnamed Jellien Universe (Jelliens' Mothership, Outer Space)

-Third part of the Crisis of the Jelliens crossover.

-With help from the guardians, Debbie manages to rescue the captured heroes from the Jelliens' mothership.

-Audrey's love for comic books and superheroes are referenced again.

-It is revealed that the Jelliens may have extracted power from Madison's Heart of Karmania, thus allowing them to breach their full army to Debbie's universe. 

 

[Jjs Goodman]

89. Zero Divided By One

The heroes are seen in the Golden Seahorse with Mai in the morning.

“Ah, it feels so nice to get away from those nosy soldiers for a brief period of time.” Mai said, as none of the Neo soldiers are around.

“I still feel bad you have to constantly be watched by them in your own restaurant.” Madison said.

“Yeah, I also kind of feel like it’s our fault this happened.” Trent said awkwardly.

“Do not feel bad, it’s not any of your faults. I see them as rude customers that won’t leave. They are only minor nuisances for now. Well, not to Audrey’s parents who see them as help.” Mai said.

“At least they leave you alone for some of the day, which is better than 24/7 stalking.” Cynthia said.

“That’s why I’m enjoying this freedom while it lasts.” Audrey said, sitting back in a booth.

Zero is looking at the map he obtained from Scrappertin, analyzing it curiously.

“What’s up, doc?” Nick asked.

“I am still trying to deduce where these islands on Scrappertin’s map are located, but I've had no such success so far. I fear I may never learn my origins.” Zero said sadly.

“Don’t worry, we’ll figure it out somehow. And if not, at least you have a nice new life in Posidonia.” Jake said.

“Hold on, may I see this map, professor?” Mai inquired, looking at it curiously.

“Of course.” Zero replied, handing it to Mai.

“That is most peculiar, I recognize these three islands. I’ve seen them on an old map before.” Mai recalled, surprising the gang.

“You do?” Audrey asked.

“Yes, let me find it.” Mai said, as she heads down into the restaurant basement.

She looks around through the materials in the basement, and finds an old map inside a box. She goes back upstairs, placing it on the table.

“This is an older version of the ocean map. If one places the map you found, and matches it to this location...” Mai explained, placing the map piece on her map.

Scrappertin’s map piece exactly matches an area on Mai’s map showing the three islands. They are faraway islands south of Posidonia.

“Excellent find Mai, they are indeed an exact match in location.” Zero said, surprised.

“Hey, those three islands are south of Posidonia.” Madison noticed.

“They’re pretty far though.” Audrey said.

“Looks like we know where to go then.” Cameron said.

“But how are we going to get to the islands? We don’t exactly have a boat.” Tori pointed out.

“Darlene’s cousin owns a boat that I am certain he can lend us. However, something about this seems a bit too easy. I believe there is more to these islands.” Zero said.

“That is correct. A long while ago when we were young, we heard legends on the block about three odd islands where mysterious experiments were conducted by brilliant researchers. It is said they created their own societies on these islands, but nobody knows for sure what else happened on them. The islands were difficult to sail or swim to because of multiple whirlpools, rough waters, and maybe even sea monsters surrounding them. Many brave explorers and sailors tried to reach them with no luck. However, many years later, several officials, including former King of Posidonia, King William, were not happy with all of the resulting destroyed ships messing up the waters, along with the fact the country Ruppia wanted to claim the territories for their own. They all tried to shut the islands down, but the people in charge responded by creating a powerful security system surrounding the islands. Many tried to cover up the whole incident by removing the islands from any newer official maps of the sea and not letting any newspapers publish the information, though whispers about eventually wandered through the wind anyways. Nobody ever since has tried to return to the islands...until now.” Mai explained

“Well we can turn the impossible into the possible, so I think we can make it to the islands...hopefully.” Jake said.

“...Did you say sea monsters?” Cynthia asked nervously.

“Probably just myths.” Tori replied.

“If there are any out there, I think we’ll be fine considering what we’ve faced.” Madison replied.

“Wait, how did you know about the islands?” Audrey asked.

“Your grandfather heard about it, he was a traveler after all.” Mai replied.

“Kind of funny in hindsight you were our secret key to finding Zero’s origins this whole time.” Nick noted.

“Alas, had I known these islands were even related to Zero at all, I would’ve told you much, much sooner. Oh well, now you know.” Mai said.

“That is fine, your information still helped us a lot. The only real mysteries left are why I left the islands and who my creators are.” Zero said.

“Alright then, let’s go sailing.” Trent said.

“I can’t wait to see what we discover on the islands, hopefully no deep, dark, horrifying and creepy secrets, or insane weirdos like that Scrappertin dude. It feels weird after nearly three years we’ll finally get to know your backstory. Whatever the answer is, I’m excited.” Nick said to Zero.

“Good luck everyone, and whatever you find on your journey Zero, I trust it will give you peace at long last.” Mai said.

Thank you.” Zero replied, as the heroes leave.

The heroes are later seen at the Posidonia Docks with Darlene. 

“Golly, so today you’ll finally know your origins?” Darlene asked Zero, escorting them to her cousin’s boat.

“It seems so. It is an odd feeling that I will finally know who I truly am. Regardless of what I learn, I will accept the result.” Zero said.

They reach Darlene’s cousin’s silver boat, and they board it. Zero hands Darlene the map, with the islands marked.

“Nice boat.” Tori said, relaxing back on a chair.

“Are you sure your cousin is okay with us taking his boat?” Trent asked Darlene.

“I told him I’m taking it for research, he understands.” Darlene replied.

“What if we badly damage it in our supposed dangerous journey?” Nick asked.

“Then that will likely become a serious issue, that hopefully I won’t have to worry about.” Darlene replied.

“Luckily for you, we have magic guardian and knight powers to face off whatever is out there.” Cynthia reassured.

“And if it does get damaged, do what I do for missed homework assignments. Worry about it later rather than sooner.” Tori replied.

The boat takes off, as the heroes feel the sea breeze.

“I find it kind of ironic and weird we’re on an ocean that’s underwater. I feel like I should think about this more than I am.” Nick was saying, unsure.

“Don’t overthink it.” Cameron replied.

“Good idea.” Nick replied, as he goes back to enjoying the sea breeze.

As the boat leaves the docks, two black Neo Federation boats see it leaving.

“Boat’s registration checks out, but we’re detecting a multitude of people on board the vessel.” a soldier said, scanning it.

“Sounds like we’ve got ourselves a smuggler. Contact King Brak on what we should do with them.” the captain replied.

“Further scans indicate the Heart of Karmania and Karmanian knight stones are on board.” another soldier said.

“Looks like this is not just any smuggler then, but a friend of the guardians and knights. Excellent. This is our chance to destroy them!” the captain said, smiling.

At the castle, a soldier approaches Brak on his throne.

“Sir, our ocean patrol unit has found the guardians and knights trying to escape Posidonia on a boat. Shall we intercept it?” the soldier asked.

“Yes, and annihilate it.” Brak ordered, as the soldier contacts the captain.

As the heroes keep sailing, the Neo Federation boats immediately take off, pursuing after them.

“Uh...are those boats trying to get to the islands too?” Cynthia asked, seeing them approaching, confusing the heroes.

“Those are Federation boats. This does not look good.” Zero said, scanning them.

“Safe to say they know we’re on board then.” Cameron said.

“Sorry Darlene, we can’t promise your boat will be unscratched now.” Madison said to her.

“Just hold them off!” Darlene replied, as she drives the boat.

“Attention vessel, we know the guardians and knights are on board. Pull over or we’ll blast you out of the ocean highway.” the captain said through a loudspeaker from the first boat.

“This is a highway?” Nick asked, looking at the water, confused.

“I think they know our answer.” Jake said, as the heroes all transform.

Madison flies up, and shoots lightning bolts at both ships, who both quickly swerve, barely avoiding them. One bolt slightly hits the second boat before going into the water, as it shakes a bit.

“We’ve taken slight damage, but we’re managing.” a soldier in the second ship said, as it keeps onward.

Both ships open fire on the boat, as the heroes block the laser missiles, stopping any from hitting the boat.

“Tori, you’re up. We’re in your element.” Madison said.

“Yup.” Tori replied.

She concentrates and rises up a giant wave of water, sending it to both boats. The soldiers panic, as it rocks both boats across the wave.

“Hold on, crew!” the captain said, as his boat rocks back and forth.

Tori shoots whirlpool blasts up from the water, trapping the boats in them. She lifts them up, as the crew in both ships scream. They are sent flying into the air, and Madison sends electricity blasts at both, causing them to explode and break apart.

“ABANDON SHIP!” the captain yelled.

The crews of both ships yell and fall out of both, as they land into the waters. Tons of debris falls down over them from the damaged ships. They both land, sending a wave at the crews, and washing them away.

“Wait, can they even swim at all? That’s sad.” Cynthia noted.

“Water ended up being a fish’s own weakness. Ironic.” Nick said, intrigued.

The heroes laugh at the crew flailing around, as the boat keeps going onward. The captain looks angry, as he contacts someone else with his communicator.

“They’re getting away, send us reinforcements!” the captain spoke.

Half an hour later, the boat keeps making away its way along, as Posidonia becomes further and further away.

“So...this got boring.” Tori said.

“Anybody want to play I Spy?” Nick asked.

“Sure.” Jake replied.

“I spy with my little eye, although I wouldn’t call it little, something, uh...blue.” Nick said.

“Let me guess, everything around us?” Cynthia asked.

“Yeah! Hey, how did you know?” Nick asked, as Cynthia sighs.

Suddenly, two more Neo Federation boats catch up to them, immediately firing. Darlene makes the boat go faster, as it avoids the blasts. Madison sends a lightning blast at the first boat, damaging it. It begins to sink, as the crew jumps overboard. Suddenly, two more boats arrive, firing, as the heroes send attacks back. Brak is in one of the boats, looking at them.

“Something tells me they’re not going to stop sending these ships!” Cameron said, as Tori sends a powerful wave, knocking them back.

Tori then shoots one of the boats up with a whirlpool blast, spinning it around. It gets sent flying. Darlene then sees fog roll in, and a sign on a spiky rock nearby, reading “DANGER: WHIRLPOOLS. DO NOT GO ANY FARTHER”.

“I know you guys are busy, but looks like we have a new complication!” Darlene said to the heroes.

As they keep moving forward, they see multiple whirlpools up ahead, concerning the heroes. Brak’s boat and the other boat get closer as well.

“That doesn’t look good...” Trent said, as he quickly looks back and fires laser arrows at the ships.

“Turning around isn’t exactly an option!” Cynthia said, referring to the ships.

“But if I go any closer, the boat will get torn to pieces!” Darlene panicked.

“Yeah, and I don’t exactly know any spells that can protect us from whirlpools either!” Nick said.

“Wait, I have a solution to both our problems. Tori may be able to create a path for us through the whirlpools with her powers, providing us safe passage. The ships would have to flee, as they have no way to make it through safely.” Zero said to them.

“If that was coming from anybody else, I’d say it’s completely improbable, but since it’s you guys, sure. I hope this works...” Darlene said, slightly nervous.

“Tori, looks like you’re up again.” Madison said.

“With pleasure.” Tori said.

She focuses hard, and throws out both her hands. The whirlpools all begin to glow, as does the boat. Darlene nervously keeps it moving, getting closer to the field. The crews of both boats see this.

“Are they insane? They’ll be ripped to pieces!” a soldier said.

“As will we!” another soldier said, as their ships also get closer to the whirlpool field. 

Brak looks at this annoyed.

“Let them go.” Brak said, confusing the soldiers.

“But why?” one asked.

“...To their destruction. The maelstroms shall consume them. Fall back.” Brak replied, as the two ships turn around.

“Ha, looks like the big scary whirlpools sent them running!” Cynthia noted.

The boat goes through the whirlpool field, with the whirlpools doing no harm to the boat.

“It appears Tori created an aquatic shield for the boat, along with calming down the whirlpools to let us pass. Good work.” Zero said.

“Yeah, it was nothing doc, except that took a lot out of me.” Tori said, breathing heavily, as she tries to relax on the chair again.

The ship makes it through the whirlpool fields, coming out safely on the other side.

“Thank you Karmanian magic!” Madison said.

They see three islands in the distance, surprising the heroes.

“We’re nearly here...” Zero said, anxious.

“Oh boy, I’m getting goosebumps on my goosebumps thinking about what’s on them.” Nick said.

“Don’t we still have that security system to worry about?” Jake noted.

“We’ll cross that bridge when we get to it.” Madison replied.

The boat gets rocked around a bit by the rough waters, as Darlene keeps control and Tori tries to calm the waves. Darlene makes it through, as the boat gets closer toward the islands.

“Alright, so we’ve seen the whirlpools and rough waves, but where’s the rumored sea monsters?” Audrey asked.

“Let’s hope they’re on holiday.” Cynthia said.

Suddenly, they all hear a loud roar, as a giant shadow moves in the waters.

“Oh no...” Trent sighed.

Several maroon tentacles shoot out of the waters, as a large kraken emerges. The heroes look at it in awe and horror. 

“Well before I die, at least I can proudly say I saw a real kraken.” Tori said, taking a picture on her phone.

The kraken is about to throw down its tentacles onto the boat. Audrey then concentrates, and turns the entire boat invisible, with everyone on board. This confuses the kraken, as it slams one of its tentacles into the water. It looks around confused, as the boat gets closer to the islands. The kraken sighs, as it goes back underwater. The boat becomes visible again.

“Nice work, Audrey!” Jake said, as she smiles.

“I’m especially grateful, had you not done that, this boat would be a goner.” Darlene said, relieved.

“Your work is appreciated. We’ll be arriving at the islands momentarily.” Zero said, as they get closer.

“Are you ready to learn everything, dude?” Nick asked.

“Yes.” Zero replied.

“Which island are we going to?” Trent asked.

“According to my scans, only the middle island has any form of life, or what I presume to be life. I suppose that is our default option.” Zero said.

As the boat gets closer to the island, the security system around the islands goes off. Two rods rise out of the water, as they shoot an electricity field across, preventing the boat from going forward. Zero throws two devices at each rod, and activates them. They hack into the system, shutting off the grid. The rods lower, as the boat reaches the middle island.

“Nice going, doc!” Darlene said to Zero, as they reach the beach.

They get off the boat, and walk onto the black sand. They see several pieces of debris on the beach, and broken cyber steps ahead. A rusty mechanical sign is on the beach stating “WELCOME TO TECH ISLE”, with flickering lights.

“Tech Isle, yup, this is definitely your home.” Nick said.

They walk up the broken steps, and arrive in an abandoned city. They see damaged cyber streets, and many abandoned technological buildings that are in poor shape, falling apart. More debris is all over the streets and old grass. 

“Fascinating, these structures are definitely at least more than ten years old...” Darlene said, analyzing some of the debris.

“This place looks like a ghost town.” Audrey said.

“I really hope the life readings you got aren’t zombies.” Trent said.

“No, there is someone or something here. I accept my creators are probably long gone by now, but hopefully whatever is here can tell us.” Zero said, as they walk along the abandoned cyber city.

“Even if it's abandoned now, I imagine this place looked pretty cool in the past.” Jake said.

“Quick question, does that robot classify as a someone or something?” Nick asked, confusing the heroes.

A somewhat large red robot flies down with jets, and analyzes the heroes.

“XJ0 IDENTIFIED. OTHER SPECIMENS UNKNOWN.” the robot said to itself.

It charges up a laser beam, and fires it, exploding into the cyber street ground. 

“Well whatever it is, it’s definitely not friendly!” Cynthia said.

The heroes send attacks back at it, as Darlene takes cover behind an old bench. Nick sends a banana spell, turning the robot’s right arm into bananas. Trent, Jake and Cameron all strike at its armor, avoiding missiles from it. Cynthia sends rocks at it, and Audrey casts a gust blast at its missiles, sending them back at it. Madison and Zero both send electric attacks, damaging it. Before they can deal the finishing blow, suddenly, two missiles are launched at it out of nowhere, putting a hole in its stomach.

“Who did that?” Trent asked, looking around.

Suddenly, a blue robot with jet wings flies around. The red robot tries to swat it, but the blue robot quickly kicks its head off. The red robot collapses to the ground.

“Thanks...whatever you are.” Tori said, as the robot keeps flying around.

“I hope that robot is on our side.” Madison said.

“Friend of yours?” Cynthia asked Zero.

“Intriguing, some of the debris matches this robot’s parts.” Darlene said.

“Sounds like this robot has been destroying a lot of these then. But is he on our side?” Cameron wondered, as Zero seems unsure.

“I...do not know why, but for some reason, I remember this robot. Perhaps we have met before.” Zero said, confused.

“Could he be a key to your past?” Darlene suggested.

The blue robot sees the heroes, and scans them, looking at them confused.

“Intruders identified with powerful energy readings.” its system spoke.

It flies down to the ground, and is ready to fight.

“Something tells me he’s not on our side...” Audrey said worried.

As the heroes are about to attack, the blue robot suddenly looks at Zero’s knight form curiously. It strangely gets out of its attack position, confusing the heroes.

“Uh...dude, you gonna do anything?” Cynthia asked.

Zero has a similar strange reaction, as he cannot attack the blue robot.

“Do not attack it.” Zero ordered, confusing them.

“Why?” Tori asked.

“What if he attacks us first? Though I’m not sure if that’s going to happen, since he seems to be in a standstill.” Nick said, as the blue robot keeps looking at Zero in particular.

“Is everything okay, doc?” Darlene asked.

“I...cannot attack that robot. My programming denies it.” Zero said, confused, surprising the heroes.

“This robot must have a special connection to you then. Who are you?” Cameron asked to the robot.

Suddenly, an explosion is heard in the distance. The blue robot flies off through the abandoned city.

“Well that was ominous.” Nick said.

“Wait, come back!” Zero yelled, as it kept on flying.

The heroes chase after it, but they lose its trail. They end up in a crater area in the outskirts of the abandoned city.

“Where could he have gone?” Trent asked, looking around at the barren plains.

Zero looks up ahead, seeing a destroyed dome surrounding an old base. There is an old, broken mechanical sign, which Darlene reads.

“From what I can make out, it says “Island Research Base”. Maybe this was where you were made?” Darlene asked.

“Let's find out.” Zero said, as they walk toward the base.

They make their way inside the old base, and it is dark. Madison uses her heart to guide the way, as do the knights with their stones. They walk down several hallways, seeing old lab equipment and machinery everywhere.

“Creepy.” Jake said, looking around.

They come to the end of a hallway, seeing a locked door in front of them.

“There is someone behind this door, I detect an organic reading.” Zero said.

“Let’s hope they don’t runaway or turn out to be an ominous untrustworthy figure.” Cynthia said.

Zero hacks into the door panel, as it opens. The heroes walk into a large technological command room, with many monitors. At the end of the room is a tall tube with liquid and a brain inside.

“Is that a brain? Eww.” Tori said, disgusted.

“Greetings travelers, welcome all to my quarters. I’ve been expecting you. I saw you arrive on the island with my monitors. You are quite skilled to make it here, and I sense there is a powerful energy from you all. I am Professor Dalton, or what remains of myself, apologies for the appearance. I created this advanced island with the help of two other brilliant minds. And I know you are XJ0, silver one. I am so proud to see you again after so long.” Dalton’s brain spoke, surprising them all.

“After everything we’ve gone through, I feel like a talking brain is actually the weirdest thing we’ve seen so far.” Jake said.

“Hello, I am ecstatic to finally meet you. I have a multitude of questions, such as why you created me, how I ended up in Posidonia, and why this island is abandoned.” Zero spoke.

“Also, why you’re just a brain.” Tori replied.

“You were made as our first step in cyborg fish, as we created a new form of life to benefit mankind. I, along with Professors Gribble and Miller, made you. As for why I am reduced to nothing but a brain, that’s a personal story I’d rather not discuss in full detail, but I got into an unfortunate horrid accident long ago. It’s all thanks to that blue robot, along with why you ended up in Posidonia and why this island is in such poor shape...” Dalton’s brain explained.

“Blue robot? You mean like the one we just fought?” Audrey asked.

“Indeed, that robot is a diabolical menace. He was a creation of ours that went out of control. We had no luck defeating him, so many fled the island. I’m the only one left, and alas, I’ve had no luck. However, I saw you impressively fight off against my red robot, so you will be able to stand a chance in defeating him!” Dalton’s brain said.

“That red robot was yours?” Cameron asked, suspicious.

“Correct, blue knight. That’s one of my robots used to track down the blue menace, since obviously I cannot move. He’s a strong one, able to destroy my robots! I believe you all can defeat him, however. Please, I beg of you, destroy him and the island will be restored to normal! I’ll also tell you more about your past, Zero.” Dalton’s brain spoke.

“We accept, but there is a complication. For some reason, I am unable to attack that robot, and he cannot attack me.” Zero replied.

“Must be a bug, do not fret over it. The others can handle him. He is currently near the junkyards. Good luck.” Dalton’s brain spoke, as the heroes leave the room.

Nick quickly turns around and uses his fin to analyze the brain, getting an odd feeling.

“Doc, I’m not entirely sure if we can trust that freaky brain. I sense there’s something weird with the dude’s aura, and that he’s not telling us something.” Nick said.

“Yeah, he sure seemed to not explain much.” Madison replied.

“Why would one of your creators lie?” Darlene asked.

“Well Scrappertin was an assistant and lied to us. Not sure how much he counts though.” Trent said.

“I will admit parts of his story felt off, and I do believe there is more to the incident on how he ended up his condition. Let us see if this blue robot will tell us more. We need his side of the story.” Zero said, as they all walk out of the research base.

After they leave, the monitors in Dalton’s room mysteriously go out, confusing him.

“Accursed faulty programming...” Dalton’s brain said, trying to get it back online. 

The heroes make their way to the junkyards, looking around. In the distance, they see the blue robot fighting an orange robot, which made the explosion from earlier. The blue robot slices right through its left arm, cutting it off. It then flies right through its stomach, causing it to explode. It lands on top of a junk pile, seeing the heroes.

“Regardless of what side he’s on, you gotta admit, he’s good.” Jake said.

“We don’t want to fight. Please tell us who you are.” Cameron spoke to him.

“I’m the protector of this island, and you have intruded. What brings you all here?” the blue robot spoke, surprising them.

“We’re here for knowledge about our friend Zero. We know he originated here.” Jake said, surprising the blue robot.

“...You have returned at long last.” the blue robot said, surprised, which confuses Zero. Zero powers down, showing himself to the blue robot.

“My programming did not let me attack you, as did yours. I believe I know you.” Zero said.

“Yes you do, Zero. I am XJ1, or One. I was the first robot made on this island. We were both created by the scientists of this island. We worked closely with the two other surrounding islands, containing colonies of special civilians trying to make their own society and benefit the future. It is as I feared however, your memory was wiped when you fell off the island.” One explained.

“Wait, you’re a protector? Professor Dalton says you’re a psychopathic and evil robot who destroyed everything.” Cynthia said, confused.

“Oh, really? Because Professor Dalton is the evil one. He’s lying to you, typical. Professors Gribble and Miller were Zero’s real creators who loved us both, along with the people and machines of the three islands. They made you to try out the first intelligent cyborg who would protect and help everyone on the island. However, Dalton was a lying sneak who had corrupt motives, wanting the fame and fortune for himself. One day, after you were created, he tried to take control of you and me, wanting to turn himself into a cyborg to increase his brain’s power. Gribble and Miller tried to stop him, but their assistant locked them out of the room, who was in on his plans. The two wanted robots to become dominant and they would take the credit for themselves. Dalton had tried to merge his mind with yours, but the experiment went horribly wrong, backfiring on him. The transfer failed, as if your programming resisted him. A resulting explosion occurred, heavily damaging the lab and Dalton’s body. Only his disgusting brain remained which was put in a jar and locked away into solitary confinement along with the assistant.” One explained, as many flashbacks are shown to the event.

“I knew something was off with his story, but I’m not even surprised at this point.” Cameron said.

“Neither am I, I’m so used to shady people trying to trick us by now.” Tori said.

“What happened to the islands after that incident?” Zero asked.

“Professors Gribble and William later passed due to old age. Dalton and the assistant broke out of confinement, and they took over the three islands. They scared off all of the civilians, and threatened to destroy our hard work on the islands if we did not leave. Zero and I refused, as we fought them off for several years. However, one day, Zero shielded me from a blast by one of Dalton’s robots. He was sent flying into the waters, swept away by the currents. I tried to look for you, but had no success. I presumed you were a goner, and continued fighting on my own. The assistant later left the island to explore the world, but underwent a painful transformation into a cyborg of his own. He returned a few times to attack me with his robots, but I handled them. Even though you do not remember our time together, I am glad you have returned Zero. We can finally stop Professor Dalton once and for all.” One explained, showing more flashbacks.

“Wow, that’s...a lot to process.” Darlene said, surprised.

“Dalton is just a brain in the jar now, why haven’t you blown him up already?” Cynthia asked.

“I wish I could’ve already, but he put a powerful shield up around the base that I could not get through for a long time. However, it appears he disabled it when you arrived, finally allowing us a chance to finish him.” One explained.

“Isn’t he watching us now?” Audrey asked.

“Not quite, I asked Madison to disable his system, disallowing him to hear or see this.” Zero revealed.

“That’s smart.” Cynthia said.

“So wait...if you were made before Zero, shouldn’t Zero be One and One be Zero? Or am I overthinking this?” Nick asked.

“They named him Zero because “there was zero reason to dislike him”.” One explained.

“Aw, sweet.” Audrey said.

“I am relieved I finally know everything about my backstory. However, deep down, a part of me is upset knowing I may never recover the memories I had with you in the past. I wish I could have returned sooner, but I spent the past three years starting a new life in Posidonia. I am sorry.” Zero said to One.

“Do not apologize. You had no clue of your past, there was nothing you could do. Whatever you did in this “Posidonia” was likely more exciting than my life here. I see you met a colorful batch of friends with some intriguing powers.” One said, analyzing the guardians and knights.

“Hopefully kicking that gross brain in will make up for your lost time.” Cynthia said.

“Yeah, let’s show that jerk a thing or two.” Jake said.

The heroes make their way back to the research base, entering Dalton’s room.

“Ah, I trust you handled...” Dalton was saying, as One walks to the front with Zero.

“Busted, dude. You lied to us. He told us everything, and we know he’s not lying because he didn’t give us abridged notes.” Cynthia said.

“Yeah, not a wise idea to leave your shield down. The professor is ten steps ahead of you.” Tori said.

“How unfortunate. Then you will all be terminated!” Dalton’s brain spoke.

Out of the shadows, four black robots and three yellow robots appear, ready to attack. A familiar laugh is heard from a balcony, as Scrappertin appears in a new robot body, resembling one of Dalton’s robots. His gear robots jump out of the shadows as well, ready to attack.

“Cheerio, nuisances! I still haven’t forgot you destroyed my ship! Prepare for your dooms!” Scrappertin said, pointing his gear staff at them.

“Technically speaking, it didn’t get destroyed, the Neo Federation took it.” Nick corrected.

“Not you again! Seriously guy, you’re so boringly evil!” Cynthia said, rolling her eyes.

“What you may call “boring” is what I call a massive step up from being the “coffee and doughnut” assistant! This path was a much better choice than that life!” Scrappertin said, annoyed.

“Ha, I called it.” Cynthia said.

The robots all attack, as the heroes strike back. One sends missiles at a black robot, blowing it up. Zero slashes his sword at two gear robots, breaking them apart. Madison sends a lightning blast at another black robot, controlling it. It smashes into another black one, as the two blow up, causing the room to shake, with the ceiling crumbling. Darlene kicks a gear robot, sending it smashing against the wall. A yellow robot grabs Cameron, but he strikes at both of its arms. It sends a laser beam at him, but he reflects it with his shield. It blasts into the robot’s head, as it collapses. Nick casts a doughnut spell on a gear robot, as Trent fires laser arrows at the other yellow robot, damaging it. Cynthia then throws rocks at its remains, blowing it up. Tori and Audrey send combined ice beams at the last black robot, avoiding its missiles. It freezes solid, and Jake smashes his sword into it. Zero and One both attack the last yellow robot, destroying it. They more blasts at Scrappertin’s gear robots, destroying the rest. 

“Just like old times, partner. If only you could remember them. Regardless of your memory, I am happy to see your skills have not died.” One said to Zero.

The heroes look at the Scrappertin and Dalton, who look at the debris terrified.

“Impossible...” Dalton’s brain said, panicking.

“All of my minions...gone! No worry sir, I will fight them!” Scrappertin said.

He jumps down, and attacks, twirling his gear staff. Zero clashes his sword against Scrappertin’s staff, and slices it in half. Zero and One both punch him, knocking him to the ground. The heroes confront the tube, ready to attack Dalton’s brain.

“Your skills are admittedly impressive, especially the magic wielders, but One and Zero, you can still join me! We can rule together!” Dalton’s brain bargained,

“You're seriously trying that now? Too little, too late.” One replied.

“Yeah, come on dude, try a better gambit than that, so-called smarty pants!” Cynthia taunted.

“Fine then. I activate my failsafe plan! Say goodbye to your home! I’m leaving!” Dalton’s brain said angrily, as alarms go off through the base.

Smoke releases from the tube’s bottom, as it begins to move upward. The ceiling of the room opens up, as Dalton is ready to escape. Scrappertin gets up, confused.

“Wait for me, master!” Scrappertin said.

“You’re useless, I’ll finish this on my own! I shall find better places to conquer! Farewell, fools! You may have bested me for now, but presuming you survive the exploding base, next time we meet, you won't be as lucky!” Dalton’s brain bragged.

The heroes send attacks at the tube, cracking it, but a shield is activated around it, blocking their attacks. The tube launches off, flying into the sky, as Dalton’s brain laughs. 

“No, he got away!” One said, as the base shakes even more.

“Do not fret, at least he has been driven off this island.” Zero said.

“You are right, we sent him running like a coward. We did get a major victory, the islands are free from him.” One replied.

“He...abandoned me! Well fine, our partnership is over!” Scrappertin said angrily.

“BASE SELF-DESTRUCT IN 20...19...” a computer voice said.

“Let’s make like a banana and split!” Nick said, as they are about to leave.

“Not so fast, I’ll finish you prove I’m still a worthy machine!” Scrappertin said angrily, charging at the heroes.

The ground beneath him begins to break open. Scrappertin jumps aside, as a giant hole begins to form in the floor. He swings his staff at Zero, who slices at him. Scrappertin trips, and goes falling backward into the hole. His head and body separate, as they both go falling down.

“NOOOO, CURSE YOU ALL!” he yelled.

“All of the explosions and Dalton’s launching must have set off the fault lines!” Darlene said, as the walls and ground continue to collapse.

The heroes all escape the base, as it explodes behind. Scrappertin’s head crawls out of the hole.

“I’m still not done, you f-” Scrappertin was saying.

The flaming ceiling collapses on top of him, sending him back into the hole. Part from the robots fall into the hole, exploding. Debris falls on top of the hole, sealing it, as the base is destroyed. The heroes look at this from the distance.

“I don’t think we’ll be seeing Scrappertin again.” Cameron said.

“Good riddance to that psycho.” Trent said.

“I am proud of you, sweetheart. How do you feel about finally knowing your history?” Darlene asked Zero.

“I am content. I wish I could actually remember what happened, but knowing who I was...I am at peace. I continued my legacy of helping people in Posidonia, especially with you all.” Zero said, feeling happy.

“Aw, thanks dude. It feels good to finally know your past too, that’s one mystery of the world solved.” Nick said.

The heroes go back to the beach, ready to depart.

“Thank you for returning after so long. I know you do not remember our past, but hopefully whenever we meet again, we can restart and make new memories. For now, it appears you have a great group of people to be with.” One said to Zero.

“Now that we know where these islands are, we can return anytime. I vow to someday help rebuild them. Farewell, One.” Zero said.

“I await that day, Zero. Until then, I’ll keep watching over it for you. Goodbye, and take care.” One said, waving farewell to the heroes.

Notes/Trivia:

-Character Debuts: One, Professor Dalton

-Area Debuts: Cyber Isle, Posidonia Docks

-Darlene’s first appearance in Season 4.

-First time Audrey’s grandfather is ever mentioned.

-Ramos’ grandfather is named William, who was the King of Posidonia before Edward.

-A country named Ruppia is mentioned.

-

 

Zero’s full backstory is revealed, along with why he was made and how he ended up in Posidonia. Zero’s creators were Professor Gribble, Professor Miller and Professor Dalton. They created him as the first step in the creation of cyborg fish, and made him with the purpose of “zero reason to dislike him”. One and Zero were close friends/allies. Dalton was a corrupt and evil scientist who convinced Scrappertin to turn on them. He tried to steal Zero and One’s technology, but ended up in an accident resulting into him becoming a brain. Scrappertin and Dalton later escaped, taking over the island. Zero shielded One from one of their robots, and was sent into the waters, taking him to Posidonia, where he lost his memory.

 

-

 

Scrappertin returns but dies. Professor Dalton gets away.

 

[TJ]

Fantastic episode! After so long of not knowing Zero's true origins, this episode definitely delivered on that front. Some more musings below:

• One was a pretty cool character, and I hope that someday Zero recovers his memories. With that tidbit still dangling, and with Professor Dalton's escape, it looks like there's still more side story for Zero to come in the future.
• I really liked seeing Mai and Darlene again. 
• Tori was the true MVP on the ocean. I liked that this episode highlighted her capabilities. Audrey too with the invisibility idea.
• The episode's title is pretty awesome btw  .

 

[Metal Snake]

Now that the heroes are used to getting tricked by shady characters who turn out to be villains, I can imagine they'll eventually have to get used to getting tricked by nice characters or minor antagonists who turn out to be bigger villains than the ones they're currently facing. I loved more coverage on Zero's backstory, he has the coolest concept behind his name ever. I'd love there to be zero reason to dislike me.

[SpongeOddFan]

Thought it was an another adventurous episode to explore the isleand to find Zerio's creation, One is cool robot dude who was last brave robot left to protect it. I really like the fight with Zero & One team up.Overall, a good episode that we finally learned more aboiut his backstory.

[Jjs Goodman]

90. Spirit of the Tiger

Snapper is seen swimming through an underwater tunnel. He swims out the other side, seeing several aquatic bubble domes in the distance, containing large cities in them. There is a central one containing a castle. He swims toward it, as the guardians, knights and Elana swim after him from behind. They look around to see sunken ruins, ships and fish swimming around. 

“Wow, their underwater is really pretty.” Audrey said, looking around, and seeing glowing lights in the distance.

“Yup, Aquarius is quite a lovely kingdom.” Elana replied.

“We’re in our element, this should be a piece of cake.” Cynthia said, looking around at Aquarius.

“How is a turtle so fast?” Nick inquired, seeing Snapper swimming in the distance.

“There’s the castle!” Jake said, seeing it in the distance.

Snapper flies into the bubble dome, and swims toward a giant blue castle. Several fish guards see him approaching, firing their trident weapons, but he turns around. His shell takes the blasts, and he sends phantom water blasts at the soldiers, knocking them away. Snapper shoots a beam from his mouth at the castle doors, exploding both open. The king fish on the throne gasps, and orders the guards to attack. Snapper swims at them, and his eyes glow white. He makes several phantom snapping turtle spirits appear, as they all attack the guards with Snapper. The guards float down to the ground knocked out, as the spirits return to Snapper.

“Weaklings.” Snapper bragged, laughing, as he approaches the king.

The king panics, and Snapper grabs their trident with a blue royal gem on it. More guards appear to attack, but Snapper blasts them away. He flies out of the castle, as the heroes see this. They send attacks at him, but his shell blocks some of the attacks.

“Too late, fools.” Snapper said, as he goes too fast, and swims away. 

They chase after him, but Snapper creates a whirlpool, sending it at the heroes. They try to make it through, and Tori makes it go away. However, Snapper makes it onto a shore, where Beast and his henchmen are waiting. Snapper hands the trident to Beast.

“YOU’RE SURPRISINGLY FAST FOR A TURTLE!” Tusk yelled, impressed.

“Excellent work. There is only one more kingdom jewel I need to corrupt: Psychon’s. All while the guardians and knights remain oblivious to my true intentions. My magic is an invisible cloak to them.” Beast spoke.

“Why do you need all these jewels boss?” Magmox asked.

“You will see in time.” Beast replied.

They get on Grador, as they fly off towards Psychon. The heroes make it on the shore, seeing this.

“I can’t believe a turtle out-sped us, seriously.” Tori said.

“They won’t get far.” Cameron said, as The Guardian flies down towards them, and the heroes get in.

The Guardian then flies after Grador, as the heroes are inside the blimp looking at a map.

“If my prediction is correct regarding Beast’s path, the next kingdom he plans to visit is Psychon.” Meritel explained, drawing a line on the map.

“What’s in that kingdom?” Madison asked.

“Many Psychic elementals reside there, it is considered to be one of the most peaceful kingdoms in all of Karmania.” Meritel explained.

“Peaceful until Beast comes, that is.” Elana said.

“Then let’s get a move on, shall we?” Skipper said, as the blimp keeps flying onward.

Meanwhile, Orion is seen inside the Central Karmania castle with Flinn.

“Hello sir, how are you doing?” Flinn asked.

“I’m doing...fine, I suppose.” Orion replied awkwardly, looking nervous.

“I can tell something is bothering ye, lad.” Flinn noted.

“Alas, it is true. Sometimes I worry I will fail watching over this place. I don’t want to disappoint my wife and daughter. I need to rely on people like you to do it for me. I’m not even a skilled warrior! How can I possibly protect this place?” Orion wondered sadly.

“Sorry to hear you’re feeling that way. I’ve been in the same boat before. Perhaps I can help you refine your fighting skills.” Flinn offered.

“Really!? You’ll help me! Thank you, thank you!” Orion replied happily.

“Let’s go on patrol and see if we find anything suspicious.” Flinn said, as the two leave the castle.

Grador lands at a calm meadow field in Psychon. Beast, Tusk, Iguitor, Magmox, Gelatos, the Four Fingers and the Phantom Beasts get off, looking around at the kingdom. An ancient village is seen in the distance, containing many wooden houses, with multiple villagers outside meditating. A large temple is seen past a mountain.

“Such a calm kingdom.” Nightkrow said, feeling the breeze.

“Yup, too bad we have to take its power.” Iguitor replied.

“IT’S TOO PEACEFUL!” Tusk yelled.

Beast curiously analyzes a scroll showing a strange gold disc.

“Soon, I will find you...” Beast said to himself, as Gelatos notices the scroll.

“What is that?” Gelatos asked, as Beast puts it away.

“Nothing you need to know about.” Beast replied strangely.

“Well okay.” Gelatos replied.

“Whiger, I have a special mission for you. The guardians and knights will be arriving any moment now. Keep them busy, but in addition, steal Jake’s knight stone essence, and most importantly, eliminate him. I have no use for him anymore, and you are the most skilled to destroy him, no matter what it takes. His friends must stay alive however, I still need them. This is a direct order.” Beast ordered to him.

“Yes, my master.” Whiger replied, walking off through the meadow.

“I thought you already had all of the knight stone powers in your grasp?” Naja asked suspiciously.

“It appears I unfortunately got too ahead of myself. Not all of his stone’s power was obtained, the other knight stones got in the way when they erased my essence from his stone. No matter, this time Whiger will make it right, while we get the last jewel.” Beast replied, as their group goes eastward.

The Guardian lands near the village, as the heroes get out of it. 

“I shall wait here and guard the blimp, good luck everyone.” Meritel said, staying inside the blimp.

“This is definitely a peaceful kingdom, this place looks beautiful.” Audrey said, seeing the meadows.

“Yeah, these flowers are so calm and pretty.” Cynthia said, smelling some.

“There is lots of psychic energy emitting from these fields, and the kingdom as a whole.” Zero analyzed, interested.

“I like this place, nothing too complicated or flashy just a nice, calm and quiet kingdom.” Elana said.

They walk through the meadows, and head into the village. They see several villagers meditating, and one putting on a performance by levitating objects with their psychic powers, as an audience cheers. A monk approaches the heroes and greets them.

“Welcome to Meadow Path, our quiet little village. You are all welcome to relax here.” the monk introduced.

“Thanks guy, but we’re in a hurry. Have you seen any creepy evil guys around?” Nick asked.

“Yes, I have sensed a great evil lurking in this kingdom. We’d appreciate it if you can drive the forces from our domain. I know the forces went that way.” the monk said, pointing eastward.

“Thank you, sir.” Cameron replied.

“How did you know that, did you use your psychic powers?” Tori asked.

“No, I could tell because of the suspicious dragon that flew in here earlier. It was not very well hidden.” the monk replied.

“That makes sense.” Trent replied. 

They walk further through the village, and spot a familiar face. Deckel is shown walking out of a wooden building, in white samurai clothes.

“Hey, it’s Deckel again!” Jake said, surprised.

Deckel sees the heroes, surprised as well, and approaches their group.

“Well hello there, my friends. I am surprised to see you all the way in Psychon. I have been training and meditating my soul here. Is that the castle butler Skipper?” Deckel asked, seeing him.

“Yes, it is truly I, but do not fret, I have had a change of heart.” Skipper replied.

“Yeah, don’t worry, he’s on our side now.” Trent replied.

“I believe you. If I could change my ways, I believe you can too, Skipper. What brings you all here?” Deckel asked.

“Hunting down an enemy, they’re quick and very annoying. You can join us again, if you want.” Madison offered.

“I have nothing else to do, so very well. I will accompany you.” Deckel said.

“Nice new getup, by the way.” Cynthia said, seeing his samurai robes.

“Thank you. This new outfit represents my change and journey.” Deckel replied.

“You sound a lot more spiritual now, you’ve come a long way from your criminal days.” Elana replied.

“Yes, you could say that. Exploring this kingdom helped erase my past and change me even more. Despite being a magic elemental, I fit fine in this psychic setting. They are welcome to any visitors here, regardless of their pasts.” Deckel explained.

“Too bad Beast won’t be so lucky.” Tori replied, as they keep heading eastward, leaving the village.

Meanwhile, back at Central Karmania, Flinn and Orion explore around the Bazaar. 

“Hmm, nothing looks out of the ordinary...” Orion said, as Steele approaches the two.

“Greetings, Flinn and Orion. What brings you two out today?” Steele asked.

“He isn’t feeling so good on this fine day, and wants my help to train his fighting spirit.” Flinn explained.

“Yes, that’s why we’re looking around for anything or anyone suspicious! Have you seen anything?” Orion asked Steele.

“Nope, I’ve been patrolling myself. All seems fine for now, but I’ll let you know if I find anything. I hope you feel better, sir.” Steele replied, as he goes back to patrolling.

Flinn and Orion explore around, as they encounter Vince and Mariette leaving a building.

“Oh, hello there you two!” Orion greeted.

“How have your lives been?” Flinn asked.

“We’re doing great, thanks for asking. How has Elana been?” Vince asked.

“She’s doing fine, she’s off with the guardians and knights on some crazy mission. That’s why Flinn here will help me in case something threatens the kingdom, though I’m also trying to learn how to defend the kingdom on my own too, which is why we’re patrolling here.” Orion explained.

“Well then, good luck with that.” Mariette replied.

“Also...she does miss you two. Feel free to talk to her, if you wish.” Orion offered.

“Whenever she has time, we gladly will. Thanks for telling us. Take care.” Vince replied, as the two go on their way.

“Flinn, sometimes I wonder if I’m even a good father to Elana. After all, she spent most of her years with those two. Maybe I’ll never be good at anything, I am a failure...” Orion said, sighing.

“Hey now lad, do not say such things. Elana still loves you. While temporary ruler, you’ve been able to protect the kingdom this far, right? I know she must appreciate that. When this Beast nonsense is over, I am sure she’ll spend more time with you.” Flinn said.

“You’re right, I suppose this is a bad time. Haha, you do know how to cheer people up!” Orion said happy, patting Flinn on the back.

“I suppose I can relate to ye, since I’m a leader myself in Ottelia.” Flinn replied.

“Indeed, that must be a stressful job for you I imagine! Wait...what is that?” Orion asked, looking at an alley.

The two look closer, seeing Stout looking around. He then runs away, heading into the forests behind the Bazaar.

“That’s one of those gangsters, he must be up to no good! Sounds like you got your mission, sir!” Flinn said.

“Excellent, let’s get him!” Orion replied, as the two head into the alley.

Back at Psychon, the heroes go through a forest, taking them up a mountain path. Whiger sees them from a cliff above, and he jumps down. 

“It feels so nice to take a hike in this kingdom-” Audrey was saying, as Whiger falls down in front of the twelve, growling.

“Come on dude, couldn’t you have waited until we finished the hike?” Cynthia asked, as the heroes power up.

As they fire attacks, Whiger jumps up high. His eyes then glow white, as he makes multiple phantom white tiger spirits appear. They attack the heroes, as Whiger goes for Jake. Whiger slashes his claws at Jake’s sword, and the two fight. Skipper and Nick send dark electric and green magic blasts respectively at two spirit tigers, who resist the attacks. They let out loud phantom roars, knocking the two back. Elana flashes a light blast at one, doing nothing to it. She then strikes her sword at it, but it goes right through, confusing her. It then attacks her with a phantom strike, knocking her down. Cynthia hurls boulders at one, but it smashes them apart with a phantom blast. Deckel strikes his sword at one, but using its phantom claws, it slices his sword apart, surprising him. He takes out another sword from his backpack, and prepares it carefully. Tori sends a water blast at one, but it does no harm to it. Audrey sends a tornado gust at another, but it walks right through it, surprising her. Madison sends electric blasts at two more of the phantom tigers, but they do little damage. Cameron, Zero and Trent all strike their swords at the spirit tigers, struggling to do any major damage to them.

“How are a bunch of magic animal ghosts so powerful!?” Cynthia asked, rising up the ground around one, but it quickly jumps.

“Not even Elana’s light will harm them. These are not just any ordinary spirits or ghosts. They are powerful in ways I cannot describe.” Zero said, teleporting away, avoiding a phantom strike from one, which cuts down a tree.

“Well, they aren’t called Phantom Beast Generals for nothing!” Trent said, clashing his dagger sword against one’s claws.

Jake continues to duel Whiger, striking his sword at him, but Whiger slices at it with his claws. Whiger sends phantom attacks, but Jake creates the red shield with his stone, barely protecting him. Before Jake can strike his sword, Whiger knocks it out of his hands. Jake then tries to punch him, but Whiger blocks his attacks, as the two jump up in the air. Whiger kicks Jake, knocking him to the ground. He sends a phantom blast at Jake, knocking him against a tree. Whiger lands, and strikes his claw right at the knight stone, absorbing the red stone’s essence. He powers down, and looks at Whiger nervously. 

“You are an admirable fighter, red knight, but your journey ends here, I’m afraid.” Whiger said, about to strike him with his claws.

Before Whiger can deliver the final blow to Jake, he has a realization and stops his hand from going any further. He cannot bring himself to finish Jake.

“I...I...cannot strike down an opponent who is unprepared. It is not the honorable way.” Whiger said nervously, confusing Jake.

He holds the glowing essence in his other hand, and runs off. Jake gets up confused, and powers up again. All of the phantom tigers disappear, as the heroes stop fighting. The spirits go back into Whiger.

“Wait!” Jake yelled to him, but Whiger runs away.

“What just happened?” Skipper asked.

“I...don’t know.” Jake replied.

“Well at least we don’t have to deal with those spirits anymore, so I can’t complain.” Trent said.

“Those spirits were quite formidable, they even broke one of my swords. They had a type of power I’ve never seen before.” Deckel said curiously.

“Yeah, that’s what happens when you’re friends with Beast.” Elana replied, as they had onward up the mountain.

Whiger reports back to Beast’s group outside the temple.

“Master, I...have it.” Whiger said, holding the glowing red essence.

Beast absorbs it, but looks angry at Whiger, confusing the henchmen around. Beast then sends a powerful dark blast right at Whiger’s chest, knocking him to the ground. A dark essence surrounds Whiger, hurting him.

“I...do not understand.” Whiger replied, trying to get up in pain.

“It’s simple: You failed. I wanted him destroyed, not just the essence. You could have finally been rid of one of them.” Beast said.

“But it was not an honorable way to finish him...” Whiger replied, feeling more pain.

“I do not care about honor, I want them all out of the way at any cost. You have shown your weakness, and for a Phantom Beast, that is disappointing. We have no room for weakness anymore at this stage. As punishment, your time is running out. If you do not destroy Jake, then you will perish.” Beast said, as the dark essence continues to surround Whiger, and he falls to the ground in pain.

“...Yes, I will do it...” Whiger replied annoyed, as he walks off.

“Couldn’t even finish an easy target, what a coward!” Iguitor mocked.

“What a despicable thing to do to one of his own allies. He has no honor.” Scorpia said off to the side.

“As he’s shown before, he cares for nobody but himself. He only wants to progress his true main goal, whatever it may be. His supposed omnipotence and foresight are both wavering, and in turn, will be his downfalls.” Naja replied.

“Thankfully won’t have to put up with him for much longer.” Gacko said.

“Gelatos, Magmox and Nightkrow, I have another special mission for you three. While Whiger handles the red knight, I want you three intercept and capture the rest.” Beast ordered.

“Yes sir!” Gelatos said, saluting, as him and Magmox go off, but Nightkrow feels unsure.

“You’re pairing me with them?” Nightkrow asked Beast.

“Yes, I trust you are skilled enough to capture them. Those two will meet their ends, and we can finally be rid of the dead weight from our group.” Beast said to Nightkrow, who understands and flies off.

Back in Central Karmania, Flinn and Orion search around the forests for Stout. They search around, and arrive at a clearing with the gold stump.

“I remember this place. Meritel’s brother Gideon once chopped down the golden tree that used to stand here one night.” Orion recalled.

“Why would he chop down such a fancy tree?” Flinn asked.

“Don’t know, I never really knew what he did. Wait, I see footprints!” Orion said, seeing Stout’s footprints in the dirt, as the two follow the trail.

It takes them through a path, and on the other side, they arrive at the abandoned building where Cameron fought Drew. They hide, seeing Stout, Vito and Beethmore walking out of it.

“All three of those gangsters for the price of one!” Flinn said.

“Aha, yes, we can arrest all three of them! This must be their hideout since their one in the Bazaar got shut down.” Orion said.

“Did anybody spot you?” Beethmore asked Stout.

“I don’t believe so.” Stout replied.

“You don’t believe so!? That’s not good enough for Big C, not good enough! We’re in hard times, we have to do better! We have to make ourselves famous again, but that’s gonna be hard since one, I lost my amazing boat to that jerk Jack, and two, Broodwing’s robot production stopped thanks to him and his castle both going boom boom! We barely have any left, this is unacceptable!” Beethmore ranted angrily, holding out only three Slayer balls.

“Ay yo, calm down Big C. We can strike the Bazaar and put us back on the map. We don’t need none of those junk robots for power anymore. We’ll do it the way we did before, with our cunning charms and powerful weapons.” Vito said, holding out his gold machine gun.

“Yup, those imbeciles are planning a cheap attack. We’ll need to strike ‘em carefully with our own well thought out plan-” Flinn was saying, as Orion goes out of hiding.

“FOR KARMANIA, CHARGE!” Orion yelled, running toward the gangsters.

“What the!?” Beethmore yelled, throwing out his three Slayer balls, forming two orange ones and a green one.

Flinn sighs, and runs toward the gangsters, powering up. Vito and Stout throw their Slayer balls, forming two blue ones, a red one, two black ones, and a green one. They are ready to strike Orion, making him nervous.

“...Maybe I didn’t think this through! HELP!” Orion yelled, as Flinn comes to his rescue, and Orion hides behind him.

“Sir, get somewhere safe!” Flinn said to him, as Orion hides behind a bush.

The Slayers attack Flinn, and he attacks back. He sends golden slashes at the two black ones, ripping them apart, as Orion watches in amazement.

In Psychon, the heroes continue to make their way up the mountain. Jake still feels confused about what happened with Whiger, as Cameron approaches him.

“I can tell something is wrong. What happened when you fought Whiger?” Cameron asked.

“It was weird. He was about to finish me, but said his honor wouldn’t let him, and then he fled. I’m not sure if it was some trick.” Jake said.

“Some enemies of ours may have different moral codes than others. I imagine Beast wasn’t happy with him sparing you.” Cameron replied.

“Yeah...” Jake said, as they make their way up to the peak.

Suddenly, gelatin and magma attacks are sent at the heroes. They block them, as Gelatos and Magmox appear from the smoke, laughing.

“Oh look, the last two of his fodder prisoners, let’s just finish them already.” Cynthia said, hurtling rocks at both.

“Hey, we’re not fodder!” Gelatos replied angrily, firing more gelatin blasts, as Deckel, Elana and the knights slice through them with their swords.

“Eww.” Elana said, as some of it gets on her royal outfit, and she brushes it off.

Magmox fires magma blasts, but Tori sends aquatic blasts back, dousing them. One hits his body, hurting him, as smoke comes off of him. The guardians and Elana send more elemental attacks at Magmox, knocking him down, while the knights, Skipper and Deckel strike through Gelatos’ gelatin body, knocking him down as well. The two get up undeterred, and continue attacking. Suddenly, Nightkrow flies up, appearing before them. Nightkrow makes several phantom crow spirits appear, which attack the heroes. 

“Not these again!” Madison said, sending lightning strikes at them and Gelatos, but Gelatos avoids and the strikes do not hurt the crow spirits.

“How are we supposed to defeat something we can’t even hurt?” Audrey asked, sending gust attacks at Nightkrow and the spirit crows, but he rips the gusts apart with his wings.

“Perhaps you need to target the source: that beast.” Deckel said, pointing his sword to Nightkrow. 

“That is actually plausible, those spirits appear to be apart of Nightkrow.” Zero said, striking his sword at Gelatos and spirit crows, while avoiding a gelatin blast.

“That’s going to be hard with these two idiots.” Tori said, sending water blasts at Magmox and Gelatos, who avoid them.

“Enough of this!” Nightkrow yelled, sending phantom wind attacks at all of the heroes, making them struggle.

Nightkrow then sends dark gusts from his wings around the heroes except for Jake, who gets knocked to the ground by a spirit crow. 

“I can’t escape!” Trent said, firing laser arrows.

Nightkrow laughs, as he teleports the eleven away, along with Magmox, Gelatos and the spirit crows. Jake gets up, looking around distraught.

“No!” Jake yelled.

He looks around, hoping to find the enemies, but has no luck.

“Red knight...I will help you. I know where they are.” Whiger spoke, surprising Jake.

Jake turns around, to see Whiger approaching but limping, holding his left arm in pain.

“Why should I trust you?” Jake asked, pointing his sword.

“I have learned Beast is a horrible manipulator with no real honor. He does not care about beasts being treated equally, and is using everyone for his own purposes. He wanted me to steal your knight stone essence and destroy you, but for failing to do so, I will perish. I could have finished you to prevent my demise, but...I will not submit to a liar. I wish I had seen his true self all those years ago before it was too late.” Whiger said, as the dark essence keeps surrounding him.

“I’m...sorry, dude. We kind of had a feeling he doesn’t care about beasts considering he only used the prisoner beasts to distract us. Where are my friends?” Jake asked.

“They are at a temple where the kingdom jewel is held, I will guide the way. I promise it is not a trap. I have nothing left to live for.” Whiger said, as he feels more pain. 

“If you help me though, you will be gone. You’d really sacrifice yourself to help me?” Jake asked.

“Yes. I see you have a true honorable spirit unlike Beast. That must be why his corruption on you did not work.” Whiger said.

“Your tiger spirit powers were pretty impressive, even if they were used against us. Why did you join him to begin with?” Jake asked.

“Back then, I truly thought he wanted beasts to feel more free. They deserved it, and I wanted to help. He appreciated my power, or so I thought he did. When he freed me from the Crystal Citadel, I truly thought he cared. But in the end, it was all a deviously long elaborate ruse.” Whiger explained.

“Were beasts really treated unfairly in the past?” Jake asked.

“In several other kingdoms, there were tyrants who treated beasts horribly, leading to the dark paths several took. Queen Elana’s great grandmother treated several unfairly. Not as horribly as other kingdoms, but she still held cruel grudges.” Whiger explained.

“Those were in the past though. Many current kingdoms are allowing beasts to live in peace, as long as they don’t cause any trouble. Elana especially has tried to make up with beasts. We even gave some former criminal beasts second chances. The problem is a lot of beasts willingly sided with terrible people like Beast and the Federation, and others are just pure evil.” Jake replied.

“I believe you. But perhaps deep down, some of the ones you’ve faced still feel wronged by ancient history. They sided with such forces as the Federation in hopes they’d get power, regardless if more aggressive actions. I hope you see our side now, and not a side influenced by Beast or the Federation.” Whiger said.

“I see now. I’m sorry for what you’ve been through. What are Beast’s true motives, if you know?” Jake asked.

“I wish I knew, but I do not. His base plan was to corrupt every kingdom jewel, but for what...I do not know. After he corrupts Psychon’s jewel, he will return to Central Karmania to set off the final stages, but I will not be around to see that. I promise that is all I know.” Whiger explained.

“I trust you. He probably counted on you telling me that. We’ll worry about whatever his true intentions are later, let’s save my friends first.” Jake said.

Whiger feels more pain, as he falls to the ground, holding his chest. Jake helps him get back up, as Whiger holds onto his left arm again. 

“...Thank you.” Whiger said.

The two make their way onward down the mountain, heading for the temple.

Back in Central Karmania, Flinn continues to fight Stout, Vito and Beethmore’s Slayers. Flinn slashes through the two blue Slayers, ripping them to pieces. The green Slayers fly around, firing lasers, but Flinn deflects them. He stands in the middle, as both charge at him. 

“No, you idiot robots!” Beethmore yelled.

Flinn jumps out of the way, as both green Slayers explode into each other.

“He’s good...” Orion said, still watching.

Flinn sends golden slashes at an orange Slayer, slicing it to pieces. The red Slayer fires lasers at him, which he deflects. It fires a plasma cube at him, but he avoids it. It goes flying at Beethmore, trapping him.

“Broodwing is SO lucky he’s not alive right now, or Big C would be registering over 9,000 complaints about these robots! Big C says it’s a good thing these things got shut down!” Beethmore said angrily, trying to get out of the plasma cube.

Flinn jumps up and slices the red Slayer’s head off. He then sends gold slashes at its arms, making them fall off. Stout and Vito fire their machine guns at Flinn, but he avoids it.

“No, you idiots!” Beethmore yelled.

The bullets instead hit the red Slayer. It explodes, as parts fly everywhere, and the plasma cube surrounding Beethmore disappears. Flinn is about to confront the gangsters, when the last orange Slayer approaches Flinn from behind, which Orion sees.

“I’ll save you, Flinn!” Orion yelled.

Orion then runs up holding a rock, and smashes it into an orange Slayer’s head. It sparks, and falls to the ground. 

“Hey, I did something brave! I can fight!” Orion said proudly, laughing.

“I knew you had it in you, laddy!” Flinn said, as he sends golden slashes at the gangsters, knocking them to the ground.

“Enough of this, let’s finish these annoying two lads!” Stout said.

The gangsters get up, and fire their machine guns. Flinn sends gold slashes back, stopping the bullets and protecting Orion. Flinn fires his grappling hook at Vito’s, hooking onto the gun, and taking it out of his hands.

“Ay yo, no fair!” Vito yelled, as Flinn trips him with the grappling hook. 

Orion hides behind a wall, avoiding the bullets. He then jumps out and tackles Beethmore, punching him in the face, and his gun falls off to the side. 

“Get off of me, you buffoon!” Beethmore yelled. 

Orion punches him again, knocking Beethmore out. Stout picks up Beethmore’s gun, and points the two at Orion.

“Uh oh.” Orion said.

Flinn quickly sends golden slashes at both guns, slicing them in half. Orion laughs, and tackles Stout and Vito, knocking both out. Orion gets up, impressed that he defeated the three.

“I did it, I beat those three jerks, and with your help! Thank you Flinn, I think I can help protect my kingdom after all! This was a life changing adventure!” Orion said.

“No problem sir. Now let’s take these oaf faced fools away.” Flinn said.

Back in Psychon, Jake and Whiger make it to the temple.

“Where are his henchmen?” Jake asked.

“Either inside or they left already. He likely left Gelatos and Magmox here in hopes they’ll be rid of.” Whiger explained.

Whiger uses his spirit powers to open the temple doors. Jake and him walk down the temple hallway, where psychic torches light the path. They reach the end, as the two stone doors open. They enter a large room, where their allies are held captive in cages.

“Jake! And...Whiger?” Madison said, confused.

“We’re here to save you! Long story short, he’s on our side, trust me.” Jake said to them.

“I guess I’ll believe it, even though he was just attacking us with his ghost tigers not too long ago.” Cynthia said.

“That’s one fast redemption arc.” Audrey said.

“Watch out, those two are here.” Deckel said, as Gelatos and Magmox walk out of the shadows.

“So Whiger betrayed us!? Too bad Beast planned on that, so we’ll finish the both of you! We have a special mission while they’re getting something special from this temple!” Magmox said, as they send magma and gelatin attacks at Jake and Whiger.

Whiger creates more spirit tigers, although it hurts him to do so. He slightly falls, but regains his stance. The spirits attack Gelatos and Magmox, who panic. Jake jumps up and slices the cages with Whiger, freeing the eleven.

“Thanks dude.” Nick said.

“It feels good to have those creepy spirits on our side.” Tori said.

Whiger’s spirit tigers continue to attack Gelatos and Magmox, scaring them. Deckel, Cameron, Zero and Trent slash their swords at Magmox. Whiger runs up and punches him with a spirit attack, knocking him against the wall. Cynthia makes the wall trap him in place. Trent flashes his knight scanner, which marks him “Guilty”. Audrey sends an air blast at the containment unit, which traps Magmox.

“No, I won’t go back to prison!” Magmox said, trying to break free.

“Thanks for the help, tiger guy. Not entirely sure why you’re helping us, but yeah.” Cynthia said.

“It is my thanks for the terrible things I did while blindly following Beast. I have little time to left, so I wanted to do the right thing...” Whiger said, as he grabs his arm in pain, and the dark essence continues to hurt him.

Madison sends electric blasts at Gelatos, knocking him aside. Jake, Nick and Skipper attack him, breaking through his gelatin blasts. Elana sends a light flash, blinding him. Tori then knocks him to the ground with a water blast, as some jello spills on the ground. Jake flashes his knight scanner, which marks him “Guilty”. Madison sends an electric blast at the containment unit, which traps Gelatos.

“Darn...” Gelatos sighed, as both him and Magmox are picked up by the heroes.

“It’s kind of sad knowing they wasted their only chance to be free as pawns for a jerk.” Elana said.

“We weren’t pawns, Beast cared about us!” Gelatos insisted.

“Why did he abandon you two and leave with the rest of his crew then?” Jake asked.

“He never cared about any of you, you were only distractions so he could get to the jewel.” Whiger revealed.

“...He wouldn’t do that to us...would he!?” Gelatos asked nervously.

“Sorry guys, sucks to know.” Tori said.

Madison opens a portal to Central Karmania, as Gelatos and Magmox are thrown into it, and it closes. The group leaves the temple, as they head back to Meadow Path. 

“Whiger, thank you for helping Jake find us. We owe you.” Cameron said, as Whiger feels the dark essence continuing to hurt him.

“I did what was honorable. Unfortunately, my time has come to an end. Beast struck me with a curse that has slowly been draining my life energy. My time is over. But thank you, red knight. You helped me regain my lost honor, and I can go...in peace, not as a criminal. Stop Beast for me, please, and then maybe, beasts can have their true peace as well. Before I go, take this red knight. It is some of your lost power, you will need it...” Whiger said, sending a small red essence back into the red stone.

“Thank you, for everything. Goodbye, dude.” Jake replied.

“Farewell...friends.” Whiger said, as he fades away, vanishing before their eyes.

“Aw, but only Jake got to know his good side.” Nick said.

“Goodbye, Whiger.” Madison said.

“I can’t believe Beast would do that to his own supposed “friends”, what a horrible monster. I’m not sure how to feel that my great grandmother apparently treated beasts badly though, but at least I won’t continue that legacy.” Elana said.

“At least he saved us and went out in peace, in his true personality he had been lacking for years due to Beast’s influence. Now he will not have to suffer his wrath anymore.” Cameron said.

“...Did he save us, or did I save him?” Jake wondered.

“Good philosophical question.” Cynthia said.

“Indeed, as someone else who reformed, I know Whiger is content with how he went out. On that note, I must depart as well. Farewell, friends. I enjoyed being with you again, but Psychon will be my home for now. There is much more to this kingdom for me to explore. Take care, and defeat Beast for me.” Deckel said, walking away, as the heroes wave farewell.

“Two goodbyes in one day, the feels.” Audrey said.

“At least we'll probably see Deckel again.” Elana said.

“Now where do we go? Did Whiger give any hint on Beast’s next location or his real plans?” Trent asked.

“He’s been corrupting all of the kingdom jewels for an unknown reason. I know where he’s heading next for whatever his master plan is, and it’s not good: Central Karmania.” Jake revealed to them, surprising them.

At the Central Karmania Bazaar, Steele is seen putting handcuffs around Beethmore, Vito and Stout’s hands.

“Finally, your troublemaking days are over! You have the right to remain silent!” Steele said, as the three are annoyed.

“Ay yo, this ain’t the last you’ll hear of Vito!” Vito said.

“Aye, I’ll get my revenge, someday!” Stout said.

“Big C is NEVER defeated, mark my words!” Beethmore said.

“That’s quite enough of you saps, take them away!” Orion ordered, as Steele takes the three away to Mt. Spire.

“You did good today lad.” Flinn said.

“I owe you most of the credit. Thanks to you Flinn, I’m out of my mid-life crisis! I may not have magic powers like my wife or daughter, but I can still put up a good fight!” Orion said.

“Everyone, let’s give three cheers for Flinn and Orion for stopping those jerks!” a villager said.

“Hip hip hooray! Hip hip hooray! Hip hip-” Karmanians were cheering.

“...Hooray.” Beast finished for them, as everyone turns around.

Beast appears with his henchmen. He then holds out his green gemstone from his palm, and shoots it around, with many Karmanians panicking. 

Notes/Trivia:

-Area Debuts: Aquarius, Psychon

-First time Deckel appears in Season 4.

-The forest with the gold stump Flinn and Orion visit is the same one from “Whiteout”.

-The abandoned building where Cameron fought Drew from “Friend” and “Zero Memory” reappears.

-Gelatos and Magmox are recaptured. Therefore, all of the prisoner beasts from the Underground City/Hidden Kingdom are recaptured.

-We get a small insight into that several beasts were treated unfairly in the past in several other kingdoms.

-First time Vito, Stout and Beethmore appear in Season 4, and they get arrested.

-It is revealed the production of Slayers stopped due to the castle explosion in “Out of Sight” (any after that were leftovers) and Broodwing’s death. Very few still remain at all anymore, mostly belonging to the gangsters.

-

 

Whiger has a change of heart but dies.

 

-

 

Beast obtains the jewels from Aquarius and Psychon, and then takes over Central Karmania.

 

[SpongeOddFan]

This is one of the episodes to set up in getting closer to Beast's story arc ends, but i really liked the fight scene with two different plot at the same episode. Whiger used to be evil, and he later change in heart. Sadily, his journey comes to end quickly. Now we're really ready to end Beast's plans once for all which ends in where it starts from s4 premiere. Can't wait for pt 2 of this.

Also, good to see Deckel coming along with them

[Metal Snake]

Cool to see that Deckel's a samurai now. I loved seeing the beasts fighting with ghosts. Good thing the heroes showed up to help that psychic village when they did, because by Pokemon logic, they'd be doomed. And by samurai code, Whiger actually had it better than Magmox and Gelatos, dying with honor rather than rotting in jail. The ending was awesome too. >:)

[Jjs Goodman]

91. Chaos of The Beast

The Guardian lands in Central Karmania, as the heroes get out. They look around at the kingdom to see it in chaos, with several buildings on fire. Many shadow beasts fly around, as do some floating eyeballs. The heroes carefully hide behind a building.

“What happened to my kingdom!?” Elana asked angrily.

“Not those things again!” Cynthia said annoyed.

“What are those?” Skipper asked, looking at the shadow beasts and eyeballs.

“He used those eyeballs to turn the people of Posidonia into those shadow demons once before. We got possessed too, and Jake had to save us in the end from them.” Madison explained.

“I don’t remember any of that...” Skipper said, confused.

“Anybody who wasn’t us had their memories wiped. I had a feeling he had ulterior motives in each of his visits. Whatever we do, do not let those eyeballs look at you.” Cameron warned, as the heroes carefully hid around the village.

“Looks like Beast’s been unleashing those ugly eyeballs across every kingdom to make his army...” Trent realized.

“So every kingdom is becoming possessed, that’s why he was jumping around...” Elana realized.

“Great, so he’s been ahead of us this whole time and now he’s taken over this place.” Tori said.

“Where’s Flinn and Ranen?” Jake asked, looking around at the chaotic village.

“And Orion?” Meritel asked, as the heroes look around at many villagers running around in panic, fleeing from the flying shadow beasts.

“I hope he didn’t become of them...” Audrey said, as the shadow beasts fly towards them.

The heroes power up, and attack back. 

“Don’t hurt them, they are still Karmanians.” Elana said.

“That might be hard!” Cynthia said, as they send shadow blasts at the heroes.

The heroes send attacks back at the blasts, causing a collision. 

“Let’s find a better spot to make a plan.” Cameron suggested.

“Good idea.” Madison said, as the shadow beasts are confused by the smoke covering the area, the heroes escape.

The shadow beasts clear the smoke, but the heroes are gone, angering them. They fly away and continue their search. Mrs. Lenden runs through the village with several Karmanians. 

“Help, anybody!” Mrs. Lenden yelled.

Two eyeballs then float down and flash at them, transforming them into shadow beasts. Beesle runs off, holding the book containing The Evil in one hand, and Jay in the other.

“Oh dear, this is bad...” Beesle said, when an eyeball floats down in front of him, transforming both him and Jay into shadow beasts.

Several shadow beasts fly toward Western Karmania. Talking Tree sees this, along with how dark the skies are getting.

“SERIOUSLY, another incident of evil!? Why can’t I EVER get a break from these shenanigans that I must always be subject to see?! I wish I could move from this spot...” Talking Tree ranted angrily, sighing.

Another eyeball floats down, flashing at him, as he transform into a purple tree, growling evilly. The darkness spreads throughout all of Karmania. In Soundaria, Rhapsody is having a concert with several civilians, when the eyeballs float down, transforming them. 

“You will not ruin this fine day, evildoers!” Rhapsody spoke confidently, ready to fight.

He tries to smite the eyeballs with sound waves from his staff, but he is transformed into a shadow beast, and the kingdom jewel on his staff glows purple. At the Sky Kingdom, the fountain with the guardian orbs glows purple, which now has a fifth orb to represent Roxy’s powers. The knight stone grid in Tom’s room also becomes corrupted. In another part of the temple, Luna and Briar are healing in magic pods, but the water in the room turns purple, as Beast’s purple essence covers their pods. Throughout Western Karmania, Tropic Isles, Shadow Lands, Cosmosos, Nature Wilds, Flameren, Battle Frontier, Aquarius and Psychon, all of the Karmanians and creatures living in the kingdoms are attacked by the shadow beasts. They try to run and fight back, but get possessed by the floating eyeballs. Flarity, Renly and Selyse are seen trying to fight off the shadow beasts in Flameren.

“Go away, you monsters!” Flarity said, throwing fire blasts at them, but she, along with Renly and Selyse, are transformed by the eyeball creatures.

At Psychon, Deckel and other monks try to fight off the shadow beasts, but are no match as they are possessed as well. All thirty kingdoms are covered in shadows, as the shadow beasts and winged eyeball creatures fly everywhere.

Back in Central Karmania, the heroes are seen hastily heading through the forests.

“Hey guys, this way!” Argros yelled, as him and Vinerox appear, waving to them.

“Thank goodness, someone who isn’t an evil demon!” Cynthia said, as they follow.

“I almost got possessed by one of those evil winged creatures, but I bravely escaped. We then met up with some of your friends out here.” Vinerox explained.

Vinerox and Argros take them to a camp site, where Ranen, Steele, Van Gordon and several other royal soldiers are. They are surprised to see the heroes.

“Hi guys, welcome to The Resistance. I know it’s not a whole lot, but that’s what happens when half the soldiers get turned into those monsters... This is chaos!” Steele said, sighing and panicking.

“Don’t worry, we’ve made it out of chaotic situations before, we can do it again.” Madison reassured.

“I am glad you are all safe. Beast’s forces have seized the castle. We are trying to work with what we have, but it appears stopping this is only something you can do.” Ranen said.

“We’re glad you’re safe too commander, at least for now.” Cameron said.

“I did not know Gordon would be in Karmania.” Zero said, surprised.

“Yah, I has important news, which I tried to tell yous through transmission but you busy in kingdom. So I come here looking for you guys using magic item to tell major news, but then shadow monsters attack...” Van Gordon explained.

“What’s your news?” Jake asked.

“I learned from chatter that Neo Federation may be planning the small strike against kingdom.” Van Gordon revealed, surprising them.

“That’s the last thing we need right now.” Elana sighed.

“I’m not sure if their attack is going to be very successful, considering the shadow demons will be after them too. At least there’s one positive...kind of, depending how you interpret it.” Nick said.

“Yeah, I’m not as worried about whatever stupid attack they’re planning. I’m more worried about turning into a hideous freak again.” Cynthia said.

“How can we defeat those eyeball creatures though? The one we faced in Posidonia gave us a tough time, and nearly possessed all of us.” Trent said.

“I believe we can handle them since our skills and powers have improved a lot since the last time this happened.” Madison said.

“But how can we defeat Beast himself? Our last fight against him didn’t end too well.” Tori pointed out.

“Let’s try blasting him and his creepy eyeball creatures with our elemental forms.” Audrey suggested.

“Considering our elemental forms couldn’t break through metal in a creepy A.I.’s ship, I’m not sure if we can destroy him with them, but it’s worth a shot, I guess.” Cynthia said.

“I’d hope our forms can at least destroy those eyeballs, let’s focus on those first.” Tori said.

“While destroying the eye creatures here would be helpful, there’s a bigger problem than those. I'm receiving reports from all over, every kingdom is becoming under Beast’s control. He has taken over all of Karmania. And unfortunately, I don't know if we can travel to all thirty kingdoms in enough time to rid them all of those eye creatures.” Ranen explained, concerning the heroes.

“Not to mention that he’ll make more even if we destroy them.” Meritel said.

“Well let’s hope we can destroy enough of these eyeballs, giving us time to reach the castle before he makes more.”  Madison said.

The four girls concentrate, as they transform into their pure elemental forms. Suddenly, some shadow beasts and eyeballs from above spot the heroes down below. They fly down towards them, attacking. Elana sends a light blast at one eyeball, which flies out of the way. She dodges a shadow blast from it, and it is about to look at her. She quickly runs, and sends several light blasts from her palm. The eyeball tries to dodge all of them, as Elana jumps up and slices it in half with her sword. It turns to ash, as some of the shadow beasts fall to the ground, turning back into normal Karmanians.

“What...” one said.

“Where am I?” another asked, looking around.

“Well done, Elana!” Meritel said, fighting off shadow beasts, and sending light blasts at another eyeball creature. 

One of her blasts hits its wing, tearing it off, and it falls to the ground. She sends another light blast, turning it into ash, as more shadow beasts turn back to normal. Madison sends electrical attacks in her elemental form at another eyeball creature, which counters with shadow attacks. She flies toward it from the smoke, and quickly strikes another electric blast, vaporizing it. Cynthia, in her elemental form, rises up vines at a flying eyeball, which slices through them with its wings. It is about to transform Cynthia, but she quickly hurls a boulder at it. It cannot fly out of the way in time, as the boulder smashes into it. Both are sent smashing against a tree, turning the eye into a splat, as it slides onto the ground. Nick transforms the splat into a nice flower.

“Don’t want any litter around here.” Nick said, turning around to send a spell blast at a shadow beast, knocking it back.

Argros digs underground, avoiding shadow blasts. He pops back up, and jumps in the air, grabbing a shadow eyeball. He throws it at Vinerox, who crushes it with his vines, turning it to ash.

“Not bad, bud.” Vinerox said to him.

Ranen fires lasers from a gun at an eyeball, which flies around, avoiding him. One hits its wing, making it fly out of control. Van Gordon flies up in his jet-pack and fires, turning it to ash. Several royal soldiers try to hold off the shadow beasts, as does Steele. 

“Come on, I don’t want to hurt you!” Steele said, recognizing the villager as the shadow beast, but it sends shadow attacks at him.

He is knocked back, falling to the ground. He looks up, as an eyeball creature stares at him.

“Oh no...” Steele sighed, as he is turned into a shadow creature.

Skipper sends dark electric blasts at the same eyeball, stunning it. He then throws a boomerang at it, knocking it down. Zero then slices it in half, as it turns into ash. Before the possessed Steele can attack Zero, he is freed from the possession.

“Yay!” Steele cheered.

Jake, Cameron and Trent fight off more shadow beasts, carefully not trying to hurt them. They knock them out of the way, trying to target some more eye creatures flying around. Trent fires laser arrows at them, as one has its wing hit, but it keeps flying. Tori, in her elemental form, sends a whirlpool blast at another eyeball, which tries to escape, but it is destroyed from the blast. One eye remains, which turns several royal soldiers into shadow beasts, as it hides behind them. It sends shadow attacks at Jake and Cameron, but both block it with their stone shields, as Cameron’s sends the attack back. Audrey, in her elemental form, sends a powerful wind gust at the shadow beasts, blowing them away. The eyeball tries to flee, but she blows it back. Jake then slashes at it, turning it into ash. Everyone in the kingdom turns back to normal, looking around confused.

“That was easy.” Trent said, surprised.

“Perhaps too easy.” Ranen said, concerned.

“Alright, we’re going to the castle-” Madison was saying telepathically.

Suddenly, the four girls exit their elemental forms, confusing them. Their guardian forms disappear, as they drop to the ground.

“Oww, what was that about?! I thought we mastered those forms!” Cynthia complained, getting up annoyed.

Madison looks at the heart, which has turned an eerie purple, making her nervous. The knights all power down as well, as their stones become inactive, turning grey. Elana’s crown gemstone turns purple, as she struggles to use her light powers. Meritel’s jewel around her neck also turns purple, which surprises Meritel.

“This does not looks good.” Van Gordon said.

“Beast took our powers.” Jake realized, concerning the heroes.

Beast looks out at the kingdom from a castle balcony, smiling. He begins to glow.

“Brave, but futile. They fell right into my beautifully designed game of chess, as I take the victory in the end. Their powers belong to me now, for good.” Beast spoke.

He continues glowing, and he creates a multitude of winged eye creatures once again. They fly through the kingdom, turning all of the Karmanians back into shadow beasts. Beast then walks back into the castle. Outside, Tusk and Iguitor are seen guarding the entrance. The possessed Grador is on the ground nearby the two, keeping watch as well.

“THIS IS BEAUTIFUL CHAOS!” Tusk yelled, looking at the burning buildings and flying shadow beasts.

“Yeah, but I hope I don’t get turned into one of those things, I like being me...” Iguitor said.

Beast walks into the throne room, as Flinn and Orion are chained to the wall with dark magic. Flinn looks at his gold stone worried, realizing its power is gone. Beast sits on Elana’s throne, looking at the two.

“I demand you let me go, you fiend! This is my castle too!” Orion said angrily, trying to break free.

“How does it feel knowing the guardians, knights and queen’s powers are gone? I have destroyed the magic of Karmania from inside and out. The kingdom is mine and your friends will fall. I rule as the king of ruin.” Beast said to the two.

“They are brave fighters, they can still take ye on even without magic shenanigans, trust me laddy.” Flinn said.

“Your dedication to them is admirable, but I have become unstoppable. Nobody can take me down. I have created the perfect world of chaos and now the stage is set for him...” Beast said, looking at the scroll with the gold disc.

“Him? What are you on about? Stop rambling nonsense!” Orion demanded.

“None of your concern. All of it is coming together. I can finally stop pretending to care about those useless monsters.” Beast said, confusing the two.

“I thought you wanted to unite them?” Flinn asked.

“No. You probably could’ve guessed I do not care at all for these pitiful monsters. The whole “I want to give them freedom” was only a front for my real plan, taking advantage of their history and emotions to bend them as pawns on my board. Everyone will become a servant of my power, and I shall have the grand throne ready. If I have an entire army of blind followers on my side, along with control every kingdom, nobody would be able to oppose me. This was all just stage one. It was genius, really.” Beast explained.

“Then...what is your real plan?” Orion asked curiously.

“To find the ancient, legendary, haunted treasure buried somewhere in Karmania, brought here by the first settlers of Posidonia. This haunted treasure feeds on the dimension. It is a treasure many have died trying to find. I will finally obtain it with my army’s help and use its ultimate power for the grand finale.” Beast explained ominously, shocking the two.

“A haunted treasure? I’ve never heard of such a thing!” Orion replied, confused.

“Its existence has been lost to ancient legends. Using the powers of all the kingdom jewels, I can find the first key to unlocking it.” Beast revealed, looking at the scroll showing the gold disc.

“So...let me get this straight, you went to all of the trouble of manipulating Ramos, having him manipulate Elana, having him find a green stone, having him get trapped with you in another world, possessing him, uniting with monsters, taking over every kingdom...all to find a treasure?” Flinn asked, in disbelief.

“Yes, and it worked. I finally did what the Federation has failed to do for 50 years by conquering all of Karmania. My grand plan will pay off in the end. You guardians and knights will be destroyed soon enough, and nobody will be able to stop me.” Beast said laughing, sounding insane.

Snapper, Nightkrow, and the Four Fingers walk into the room.

“Sir, shall we hunt for the remaining guardians and knights?” Snapper asked.

“Yes, do as you will to them. However, do not destroy Elana, she has something I want back.” Beast ordered to Nightkrow and Snapper, as they leave.

Naja looks at Scorpia, Stingapede and Gacko, ready to strike.

“As for you four, you can-” Beast was saying.

The four quickly surround Beast, and send poison attacks at him. Beast sends elemental attacks back from his hands, knocking the four to the ground.

“You have gone too far, you liar! We overheard everything! This will be your end!” Naja said, jumping up and trying to strike Beast.

Beast sends a green blast, knocking Naja into the wall. He then sends light blasts at Scorpia, Stingapede and Gacko, knocking them out as well.

“I knew you’d betray me, but I do not plan to destroy you. You would be useful slaves in my army. Under my full control, perhaps you can finally destroy Elana and her allies for good this time.” Beast said.

An eyeball creature comes out of the shadows, staring at the Four Fingers. They are transformed into shadow creatures as well, and fly off through the kingdom. Flinn and Orion are still worried.

“Come on lads, I know you’re still out there, you can still save us...” Flinn said, looking out a window.

“What a waste of good minions, you moron. Too bad my parents will never see that I finally conquered all of Karmania, even if I am possessed by a nutjob. Not like they’d care anyways, or know, since they’ll become those hideous shadows soon...” Beast said to himself oddly, sounding like Ramos, confusing Flinn and Orion. 

“Are you alright there?” Orion asked.

“...What, I did not say any of that. Gah, no, I cannot have this happen now!” Beast said angrily, as he gets up and runs off in a hurry.

“Perhaps he is not as powerful as he thinks.” Flinn wondered.

Beast goes into Elana’s room, and looks at a mirror, showing the face of Ramos.

“I am not Ramos. You are gone. I am in control, you weak fool. I am the king of Karmania. This is not your victory, you worthless being. Stay away forever.” Beast said to himself, glowing.

He then sends a light blast right at the mirror, shattering shards everywhere. He looks around angrily, and leaves the room.

The Guardian is seen still landed on the outskirts, when some shadow beasts approach it. They launch attacks at it, but a green magical shield mysteriously surrounds it, blocking all of their attacks. The beasts give up and fly away. The two soldiers look at this in surprise from the inside.

Back at the heroes, they look around, unsure what to do without their powers. 

“How did he steal them from us?” Audrey wondered.

“He corrupted our power sources when he attacked the Sky Kingdom.” Cameron realized.

“That explains a lot.” Madison said.

“Wait, Skipper, don’t you have bootleg guardian powers? I know you once gave them to those brats Morgana and Thorn.” Cynthia recalled.

“Oh yeah, I remember that. That was kind of iffy and made me question if that counted as straight up hacking magic.” Tori said.

“Um...yes I still have them, but...I don’t think you really want those because they don’t last long so it’d be somewhat moot. Also, the powers use dark magic, which I don’t think you want either.” Skipper explained

“Never mind then.” Cynthia replied.

“It feels weird knowing Ramos finally won...kind of, sort of, if he’s even in there at all.” Nick said, as this makes Elana wonder.

“Yeah, and he only succeeded with the help of an ancient monster.” Tori said.

Suddenly, more shadow beasts and eyeball creatures swarm around their location, including the possessed Four Fingers. 

“Don’t panic guys, we survived once without our powers before, we can do it again.” Elana said, holding onto her sword.

“Yeah, but not against creatures that can turn us into monsters...” Tori said concerned.

Multiple shadow attacks are launched everywhere by the shadow beasts and eyeballs. The heroes try to dodge, as Elana deflects some with her sword. One goes right back at an eyeball, knocking it away. Steele jumps up to slice at it, but another eyeball appears before him, sending a shadow blast. He is knocked down, and the eyeball stares at him.

“Oh come on-” Steele was saying, as his transformation finishes, and he turns back into a shadow beast.

He growls, and tries to attack Nick with his arm blades, who barely avoids them.

“Talk about cutting corners.” Nick joked, running away, but he is stopped by two more shadow beasts. “Sorry about this...”

He punches the two, and makes his way through them. Skipper sends dark electric blasts at the eyeballs, but several swarm around him, sending attacks, destroying the campsite. Elana sends several weak light blasts at an eyeball, vaporizing it, but the rest are not deterred. Ranen fires lasers at more eyeballs, but they send attacks at his gun, destroying it. They then quickly flash their eyes at him, as he tries to look away. However, a shadow beast grabs him, and forces him to look. He is transformed into a shadow beast as well, as are several royal soldiers, who attack the remaining heroes. Zero, Nick and Trent try to fight off the beasts and possessed Four Fingers, getting hit by poison attacks. Zero sends stun blasts at some shadow beasts, dazing them, as they run through the area. 

“At least you still have your electrical powers, doc.” Trent said, as Zero sends a stun blast at an eyeball trying to possess them.

“Yes, but I do not know how far they will get me.” Zero said, somewhat worried, sending another stun blast at an eyeball.

Vinerox sends his vines at the beasts and eyeballs, but they avoid them. Argros swings his tail at an eyeball, but it flies out of the way and sends shadow attacks at him. Meritel slices through an eyeball, turning it to ash. She then sends a light slash from her sword at another, but she is grabbed by the possessed Gacko and Scorpia.

“Mom!” Elana yelled, as she tries to reach her, but is blocked by the possessed Steele and Ranen.

“Go on without me, I know you can save all of Karmania! Trust me!” Meritel replied, as an eyeball floats down in front of her.

Elana understands, as the eyeball transforms Meritel into a shadow beast. Elana runs away from Steele and Ranen, meeting with the other heroes near an exit. Cynthia punches a shadow beast, and regroups with the heroes as well.

“I think we might have to retreat!” Cynthia said to the heroes.

“At this point, we pretty much have to!” Cameron said, avoiding an eyeball.

“But how will we cover our tracks from them?” Trent asked.

“I has the idea. I do not wants to say goodbye, but...farewell, jet-pack.” Van Gordon said.

He takes off his jet-pack and throws it into the air. The creatures all send shadow attacks at it, causing an explosion. The explosion blinds the enemies, as the heroes quickly run away toward another area. As the explosion clears, the shadow beasts and eyeballs look around confused, and continue their search. The heroes make their way toward the Underground City entrance. 

“Aw, dude, you sacrificed your jet-pack just for us?” Nick asked.

“Yes, you are my comrades. Do not worries, I shall gets another when this is over...if we do not become all possessed.” Van Gordon replied.

“I’m not going out as a zombie.” Vinerox said.

“We cannot run forever, there are only so many places to hide.” Skipper said.

“I know, we just need to stop at one location for a game-plan.” Elana replied.

Beast is on the castle balcony, looking through a portal showing where the heroes are going through Elana’s gemstone. Suddenly, the portal goes blank, confusing him. Elana’s gemstone also glows blue, though the heroes do not notice this. Beast cannot see their progress anymore, as he tries every spell he can to fix it, but nothing works.

“...Tom. No matter, there are only so many places they can hide.” Beast said, looking out into the kingdom.

The heroes make their way to the Underground City entrance.

“Why did we go here?” Audrey asked.

“It’s the least likely place anyone would suspect for now. We’ll use this time wisely to make a game plan. We may have lost your powers, and he may rule all of Karmania, but we won’t give up. We need to just strike the main target to free Karmania: Beast.” Elana explained.

“But how? He’s got the entire dimension, and our army is only thirteen people. I’ll still fight for ya guys, but I don’t know how good your odds look. This is why I don’t gamble.” Argros said, unsure.

“At this point, it’s going to take the most unexpected person in the universe to defeat Beast, because I’m not sure if it’s going to be us, as much as I hate to be a downer.” Nick said, pondering.

“Wait...Nick, that’s it! I think I know how we can defeat him!” Elana realized.

“How?” Cynthia asked.

“The most unexpected person...what about Ramos? He’s still inside of Beast somewhere. I think somehow we could get through to him. If we can free him from Beast’s control, his power could be severed. It would give us the perfect time to attack him when he’s caught off guard.” Elana explained.

“That certainly is unexpected, but I am not sure if Ramos can be contacted with Beast’s possession.” Zero replied.

“Skipper, you were close to Ramos. What do you know about him?” Elana asked.

“Well...he never really quite fit in. He never had much of a good life or childhood in general. He always struggled to be the best in the eyes of his parents. Sometimes I don’t think even he truly know what he wanted to do with himself.” Skipper explained.

“This seems risky, we don’t know for sure if Ramos is still in there. Beast might have erased his personality for all we know.” Madison said.

"He might even be dead for all we know, and Beast is basically wearing a dead guy." Nick morbidly suggested.

"...I do not want to picture that." Trent replied.

“I know this is a long shot, but as the queen of this kingdom and the person who is supposed to unite this dimension, it’s a risk I have to take. Maybe my presence will awaken Ramos, since he always wanted my power so badly. I’ll go to the castle and confront Beast myself.” Elana suggested.

“Alright, I’ll trust your judgment here, majesty. Just be careful.” Cynthia replied.

“I will.” Elana replied.

“Hey, I didn’t notice until now, but your stone isn’t purple anymore...” Audrey realized, as Elana takes it off.

“Oh hey, it is...weird. I still can’t use my full powers, but maybe Tom really did do something to fix it?” Elana wondered.

“If you’re going to go, now would be the time.” Skipper said, as Snapper, Nightkrow and several eyeball creatures approach them.

“There you are.” Snapper said, laughing.

“We’ll hold them off, you go!” Cynthia said to Elana, as she nods.

Elana runs off, avoiding phantom and shadow attacks. She makes her way toward the castle, as one of the eyeballs chases after her. She sends a weak light blast at it, which it dodges. She then throws her sword right at it, stabbing it, and making it turn to ash. Her sword falls back down, as she grabs it, and heads to the castle. The rest of the heroes confront Snapper and Nightkrow.

“Whiger may have failed, but we will not.” Nightkrow said, making spirit crows appear, as Snapper also makes spirit turtles appear.

“Remember everyone, strike those two. Ignore the spirits and pretend they are not there, no matter how hard they attack.” Cameron said.

The spirit crows and turtles strike, but the heroes avoid them, walking past them. Skipper sends dark electric blasts at the eyeball creatures. However, they all begin to swarm around him.

“Back away, back away!” Skipper yelled, throwing multiple pieces of food everywhere, but the eyeballs rip through them.

They flash their eyes, turning Skipper into a shadow creature.

“No!” Jake yelled, trying to reach him while barely avoiding attacks from an eyeball and the spirit turtles.

The possessed Skipper sends dark electric attacks at them all, as the heroes try to avoid. He throws a pineapple, which explodes. Zero runs up and sends a stun blast at the possessed Skipper, which knocks him out. Van Gordon sends laser blasts at Snapper, who quickly avoids them and sends a spirit water blast, knocking him to the ground. Nightkrow flies up, sending multiple spirit air attacks at everyone. 

“You two should join us, we’d finally give true power to the beasts of Karmania.” Nightkrow said to Vinerox and Argros.

“Sorry, I’m not about that life anymore.” Vinerox said, shooting vines up at Nightkrow, who slices through them.

“Nor am I.” Argros replied, digging underground. 

“How unfortunate.” Nightkrow said, sending a spirit attack at Vinerox, knocking him back.

Argros digs underground, as Snapper feels the ground under him. Cameron, Jake and Trent, Tori and Cynthia run up to Snapper, punching him, but he blocks their punches with his shell. They ignore spirit attacks from the turtles, as they attack. Snapper resist them, and knocks the five aside.

“Fools, you are useless without your powers!" Snapper said, about to send another spirit attack at them.

Argros then jumps up from the ground, and punches right into Snapper’s stomach, knocking him down. Argros shrugs off the attacks from the spirit turtles, and whacks his tail right at Snapper, cracking his shell. 

“Nice job dude, get him!” Cynthia yelled.

Snapper shoots a water blast at Argros, but he jumps up. Snapper tries to run, but the five heroes attack him again, punching him. Argros then lands down on Snapper, tackling him. He punches him in the face multiple times, knocking him out, as the spirit turtles disappear.

“...I did something!” Argros said, surprised.

Audrey, Zero, Nick, Madison and Vinerox attack Nightkrow, who flies around. They avoid attacks from the eyeballs and spirit crows, as Nightkrow flies down super fast. Zero sends several stun blasts, as Nightkrow tries to avoid, but one hits him, knocking him back for a bit. Vinerox then rises up his vines around the wings, pulling them back, as Nightkrow is stuck. 

“Let me go, you filthy plant! You truly think you can defeat a Phantom Beast General!?” Nightkrow asked.

“If you want to be let go, then why didn’t you just ask?” Vinerox asked.

He flings Nightkrow around and around. He then lets him go, slamming him right into the ground, knocked out. Nick flashes his knight scanner on Nightkrow, and Cameron flashes his on Snapper. Using the crystal containment unit, both are refrozen in crystal. They are then teleported away before their eyes, and reappear back in the Crystal Citadel. 

“Huh, didn’t know the feature could teleport prisoners.” Nick said.

“It only does that to prisoners from the Crystal Citadel, but I could reprogram it to teleport prisoners to Mt. Spire after this is over. It would be helpful.” Zero replied.

“You two really proved you’ve gone down your own path.” Jake said to Vinerox and Argros, impressed with them.

“Thanks.” Argros replied.

“It was nothing, I’m not into following what weirdos say for me to do anymore.” Vinerox replied.

“Now let’s get out of here and help out Elana.” Cynthia said, as they avoid shadow attacks from the eyeballs.

The possessed Skipper gets back up, as he tries to attack them. The heroes all escape, heading toward the castle as well, while the eyeballs chase after.

Elana walks through the village bravely, as several eyeballs see her. She sends light blasts right at them left and right, knocking them away. She heads straight up a path to the castle, as Tusk and Iguitor see her.

“YOU SHALL NOT PASS!” Tusk yelled, getting out his ice daggers, and Iguitor holds his club.

Elana avoids Tusk’s ice daggers, and slashes them out of his hands with her sword. She then sends a light blast, knocking him away, as he yells. Iguitor swings his club, but Elana slices it in half, surprising him. She punches him, and throws him away as well. He lands on Tusk, as an eyeball hovers above the two, transforming them into shadow beasts. 

Beast is seen inside the throne room, analyzing his scroll with the gold disc. He makes the thirty kingdom jewels appear, circling around the scroll, as they form a powerful glow of light. Flinn and Orion look at it in curiosity.

 “Yes...I see it! This is where the first piece is!” Beast said, looking at the glowing scroll, as the jewels light up on one piece of the disc to reveal glowing coordinates.

Elana then flings open the throne room doors, surprising Flinn and Orion.

“Beast, your reign of terror ends here!” Elana said, readying her sword, as she runs up to him.

“Daughter, you’re not a zombie!” Orion said, happy.

“I knew ye’d come, lass!” Flinn said.

“The princess...” the Ramos side said for a brief moment.

”Have you come to give back my finger-“ Beast was saying.

She strikes her sword at Beast, who avoids, and sends a lightning blast at her. Elana counters with a light blast from her sword, deflecting the lightning at a statue.

“Watch the decor, sweetie!” Orion warned.

Beast sends green blasts from the stone, but Elana deflects them with her sword. She runs up and strikes it at Beast again. He uses the blue stone to make the ground shake with earth, but Elana jumps up. He then sends a gust blast, but Elana sends a light blast through it, which Beast barely avoids. He then traps her in a whirlpool, but Elana slices out of it. He sends a light blast of his own, and Elana counters with a weaker one. His overpowers her and goes for her, but she deflects it with her sword back at Beast, knocking him to the ground. He gets up angrily, and sends another green blast at her, as it nearly hits Flinn.

“Oy, that was close.” Flinn said, seeing the burn in the wall.

Elana swings her sword, as Beast holds onto it.

“You are powerful Elana, but you are no match for Beast!” Ramos spoke to her, as Beast still holds onto her sword.

“Then you help me! Together we can destroy him!” Elana said.

“I AM HIM!!!” Beast yelled, breaking his grip, and punching her in the face.

She stands strong, and breathes.

“If you really are Beast, then destroy me. Unless you’d rather want to steal the rest of my power like Ramos did.” Elana said, standing still.

“What is she doing?” Orion asked nervous.

Beast is about to strike her, but he hesitates. His left arm remains still, and he cannot move it. Ramos yells, as the arm and his body soon begin to glow purple. Elana turns around, looking at this surprised. Beast’s essence rips away from Ramos, who collapses to the ground. Beast reforms in his normal business suit outfit, looking annoyed.

“You dare disobey me Ramos!? You were my brainless puppet!” Beast yelled, as he shocks him with many lightning blasts.

“The who did what now, why is the toaster upside-down...” Ramos was saying, as he gets fried by the electricity and is knocked out.

Elana frees Flinn and Orion. The remaining heroes barge into the throne room, seeing the events.

“Oh hey, the plan worked.” Tori said.

“I was a bit surprised too, but I had to take a risk. Now we’ll finish him-” Elana was saying, but Beast starts to laugh.

“Did you really think I didn’t a have backup plan?” Beast asked.

Beast then glows, as he goes flying like a spirit outside the castle. He flies right into Grador’s mouth, fusing with the dragon. Grador breaks off its chain and roars, turning purple. Beast is now in control, as it breathes fire at the kingdom. The heroes get outside to see this. He laughs at them in his new form.

“Clever plan, but I still reign supreme with a superior host, and I know my next destination. The treasure will soon be mine!” Beast yelled, breathing fire at the heroes, as they barely avoid. 

Beast flies off, bashing through buildings with rock and fire attacks, roaring. TV Bot then flies into the area, ready to attack the heroes.

“Oh yeah...that thing again. Which reminds me, is the Neo Federation still attacking?” Madison asked.

“Well if they do, good luck dealing with that dragon.” Cynthia replied.

“Now’s not a good time for this...” Audrey sighed, as it is about to attack.

“TARGETS LOCATED, PREPARING TO-” TV Bot was saying.

Beast then flies toward it, sending a fire blast. TV Bot fires at it, but Beast devours TV Bot. He keeps on flying, leaving trails of fire and destruction.

“...Do you think whatever you did to Ramos will work on a dragon too?” Nick asked Elana.

“...Probably not. Whose idea was this again? Oh right, mine...” Elana sighed.

To Be Continued...

Notes/Trivia:

-First time Vinerox and Argros appear in Season 4.

-Second time the heroes lose their powers, the first time being in “Brak Is Back”.

-Beesle, Jay, Mrs. Lenden, Talking Tree, Rhapsody, Deckel, Flarity, Renly and Selyse make cameos.

-Nightkrow and Snapper are recaptured, and the crystal containment unit is used for the first time.

-Skipper’s bootleg guardian powers from “Stay Gold” are mentioned again.

-As of this chapter, Beast and indirectly Ramos are currently the only characters to conquer all of Karmania.

-

 

Ramos is freed from Beast’s possession, but he possesses Grador.

 

-

 

It is revealed Beast’s true motive is to find a mysterious haunted treasure buried in Karmania.

 

[Metal Snake]

I always love it when an epic episode makes me feel like I'm reading a two-part finale. Things really started getting juicy for me when Beast admitted his evil plan involved manipulating the emotions of the monsters, which finally got The Four Fingers to betray him. Elana was amazing in the last fight too, bringing back the old Ramos and leaving me in disbelief at how much I missed him.

[SpongeOddFan]

this is chaotic episode, and we see Beast took over in entire kingdoms, and Elana is the only one who stop him with her impressive fighting skills, freed Ramos,. Beast hasn't finished his plan yet as he find buried treasure. Overall, this is an epic episode.

[TJ]

Excellent, excellent episode. And I have to say that Elana was the true MVP. It's impressive how far she's come from the beginning. I also liked the continue exploration of the Beast/Ramos identity thing, resulting in the split at the very end. But now with Beast combined with Grador, who knows how this will play out.