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Castle Camelot's bell towers struck just as the sun was beginning to crest over the mountain range, sounding for its residents to rise. They were designed to produce a melodic ringing, meant to gently rouse the town's inhabitants from their slumber before fading into the background thanks to the acoustics of the mountain the castle was built on.

Unfortunately, even this was too much noise for Drum, not helped by the castle's closer proximity to the bell tower. The last few days full of stress combined with the hearty dinner - that he may have overindulged himself in - put him into a deeper sleep than he expected, and he was reluctant to part from its warm embrace.

The thought felt appropriate when he felt that embrace feel more real than a dream should be, and he reluctantly opened an eye to see himself still on the sofa he shared with Axia, neither dragon breaking their hold on one another throughout the night. Seeing the scholarly dragon look so peaceful brought a smile to Drum's snout, and he was fully ready to sink back into his sleepy haze. In the end, it was a stray beam of sunlight that fully woke the red dragon, glaring into his eye until he moved his head into an uncomfortable position, and he groaned groggily as consciousness returned to him.

You'd think with all the pillars and towers, they'd make something to block out the sun, Drum huffed to himself, the action causing his chest to rise, which prompted the sleepy Dragowizard laying against him to cradle into the crook of his arm. _Can't complain about the view. _

The thought of spending the rest of the morning as they were was far too tempting to the red dragon, but he knew they couldn't spare the time.

"Wake up, Axia," he said gently, nudging the other dragon with his snout.

"Mm, but we don't have class today…" his sleepy murmur brought a chuckle out of Drum, and Axia perked up hearing it. "Huh, Drum…?"

"The one and only," he said, grinning. "Guess we both crashed after that dinner."

Axia yawned, stretching as much as his position would allow. "No wonder I had that dream. I haven't fallen asleep on a sofa since university."

"Must've been some hard courses if they got a smart dragon like you to crash." In the soft light of morning, with a warm feeling filling his chest, Drum's compliment came as naturally as breathing.

"Charmer," Axia teased, snuggling ever closer to the larger dragon. "Do we have to get up? We haven't had a moment alone like this in ages."

"We had one almost like this yesterday," Drum chuckled before leaning closer. "Mm, but I missed this."

"You missed little ol' me?" Axia asked sweetly. "Even my tackle-hugs?"

"It's not an Axia hug if it doesn't drop me to the floor," Drum smiled.

"Well, I hope you don't think I'm always that rambunctious," Axia said, "I can be gentle with the right dragon."

He didn't give Drum a chance to respond, and closed the distance between their snouts, giving him a light kiss.

"You're always full of surprises," Drum said with a huff. It didn't take any extra sense to see his reaction. Even with his armor covering his thick chest, Axia could feel Drum's heartbeat speed up. "I should step my game up…"

This time it was Drum who took the lead, not that Axia complained. The red dragon cupped Axia's snout, tilting it to the side for a deeper kiss. The overall closeness with his dragon felt amazing, and he wished the moment would last forever.

"Am I interrupting something?" Life answered, unceremoniously.

Drum's eyes snapped open, frantically searching for the voice while leaving Axia's tongue entwined with his. He finally found Shosetsu at the door: grinning smugly at his second time seeing the two being intimate.

Still, despite the mood being killed, Drum didn't find himself being too angry.

"Shosetsu, it's you," he sighed, finally releasing Axia from their lip lock. "Coulda knocked, ya know."

"I wasn't the one who started on a sofa in a public waiting room," he teased, somewhat surprised at Drum's lack of embarrassment. "You seem to be taking this rather well."

"Well, considering you already saw us… like this back at the forest, I guess it lessened the blow," Drum huffed, his snout burning at the memory. "I was more worried that Gao might've seen us-"

"Oh, he did." At that, Gao peeked out from behind the doorway, a sly and knowing grin on his face. "He's the one who told me where to find you."

Both Drum and Axia blushed crimson.

"Uhh… right. Kid… I can explain."

"I'm not saying anything," Gao said, still smiling widely. "Whatever you two lovebirds wanna do while we got time is up to you." He snickered a little and walked out, leaving Shosetsu and his judgmental stare.

"You heard your Buddy," the other human remarked. "Enjoy yourself, but do remember to come to breakfast. It's impolite to keep us waiting."

He left with a small chuckle, and Drum slouched down, thoroughly exhausted from the teasing.

"What is my life, right now?" he muttered. "It's like everyone's waiting to find me in the most compromising position possible."

"I don't think you've let yourself be in these positions that often," comforted Axia. "And besides, they're just showing their support."

"Support in giving me a heart attack, maybe," Drum sighed, resting against the sofa's end. He tilted his head just enough so his horns wouldn't damage the upholstery, and Axia took that as an invitation to nuzzle up to him.

Drum found himself staring at the decorated wall behind him, an unfamiliar monster's portrait whose name was obscured by some furniture catching his vision. The Bunker clan didn't have any portraits of their previous leaders, only memorials; small trinkets from their loved ones or fangs and claws from those born in peacetime.

Idly, he wondered what a portrait of his legacy would look like. He could see himself in his father's armor - or at least of similar style - sitting near one of the ruins that littered his homeland. Gao would be there, as an honorary member. The kid had earned that right. And Axia…

He couldn't imagine such a moment without Axia. The very thought was impossible to picture.

The thought of ruling as chief without Axia was difficult to picture.

Drum held back a sigh, grasping the teal dragon a little tighter. They hadn't really talked about what they were now, or where they would be headed. After this threat was defeated, would Axia remain at Camelot to train by himself or…? He couldn't deny the warm bit of happiness bubbling in him at the thought of traveling with him and Gao. Of course, that brought back his old worries back; what would happen afterwards? Once it was time for him to leave to be the chief, would they follow him? He knew it'd be incredibly selfish to ask them to leave their lives for that, but he allowed himself to indulge in the idea. Just for a moment.

If I could have them with me forever…

Drum couldn't help his shallow gasp at the impossibility of that. His discomfort alerted Axia, and the dragowizard looked up at the bigger dragon and saw the sharp look he was giving the wall. Stuck in his own head again, Axia smiled, reluctantly pulling out of Drum's strong grasp to stand up. Only one way to fix that.

"C'mon Drum. It's not good to brood on an empty stomach."

"I'm not-" his stomach, loud and impatient, made its presence known with a deep growl. Drum had to look away, practically feeling Axia's cheeky grin. "Alright, you win."

He grunted when Axia all but pulled him up from the sofa, leading the sleepy dragon down the halls. He couldn't be too mad with the promise of a good meal waiting for him, and knowing he would share it with both his Buddy and Axia helped clear those nervous feelings from his mind.

---

Mornings were quiet in Camelot Castle's town; light chatter from store owners and night guards whose shifts had ended lightly sprinkled the town square, a far cry from the hustle and bustle afternoons brought. Those that hadn't woken to tend to their duties were groggy in their morning chores, with even the morning guards showing a surprisingly lax attitude.

It made Muichi's entrance as understated as she had hoped.

Clad in a brown cloak to hide her human attire, the young girl strode through the town as if she was a normal traveler. She kept her gaze to the castle on the horizon, ignoring her instinctive need to glance around for threats, and walked with a purpose to deter suspicion. Confidence was the name of the game, so she had been told. Act as if you belong and no one would suspect otherwise.

It sounded like wishful thinking to her, but as she passed the light patrol and gathered shopkeepers, she was met with pleasant nods and sleepy waves from the townsfolk. It was incredibly jarring compared to her last forays into civilization, where harsh eyes deterred her from coming near anyone. She had to keep her eyes trained down to keep from glaring on instinct. Still, she offered silent nods back and that seemed to appease the sparse crowd.

It was honestly one of the more pleasant mornings Muichi had experienced.

She paused as she neared the stairway to the castle, veering sharply to a small alley on the edge of the town. Alone and out of sight, her hand brushed against a second deck case clipped to her belt. In it, the Knights of the Apocalypse slept in card form, waiting for their signal to act. Muichi opened the top of the case and watched as the knights flittered up as balls of light, ascending into the air like fireflies.

That's their part of the plan set up, she thought, taking out Morganna's card from her other pocket. Now…

She tossed the card out, Morganna's form materializing with the Glepnir spell still binding her.

"I suppose it was too much to ask to be rid of these chains," she huffed. "I would've liked to see the castle once again before all this…"

"Yeah, well we don't always get what we want," grunted the human. "Now let's get this over with."

"Testy today, aren't we?" Morganna supplied. "Care to share?"

"You're choosing now of all times to be sociable?" Muichi hissed.

"Not much else to do, considering our circumstances. Technically speaking, I was the one who dragged you into this. I feel a little responsible for your well being."

Muichi was silent for a long moment.

"This town is… nice…" she offered. "No one's tried to come after me or looked at me with hate in their eyes…"

"No one's had a reason to. They will soon enough." It was hard to miss how Muichi bristled at that affirmation. "Why? You knew what you were getting into, following that things orders. Having second thoughts?"

"Are you? You're in this just as deep as I am," she huffed, angling the golden chains around the sorceress. "Your own plan got usurped by whatever entity's stuck in that sword, and now we're both stuck as pawns in that thing's glorified game of chess. You can't tell me you don't regret how things've turned out."

"This wouldn't be the first time my hubris has gotten me in over my head," Morganna conceded. "I can't really afford such thoughts right now. Loathe though I am to admit it, I've found myself in the same situation as I have before. But what truly has me curious is why you hadn't fled with me. We could've out run-"

"I told you I was done running. I'm making my own path here, wherever it may take me."

Morganna sighed quietly and remained silent until they approached a set of stairs that wrapped around the cliffside that led to a cave, the entrance of which was covered by a shimmering, blue barrier that flickered in the morning light.

"There it is," said Morganna. "Once the barrier is broken, they'll be alerted to our presence."

"Then we better make this quick…"

---

Breakfast was a much quieter affair than dinner, something that Drum was infinitely thankful for. Though still held in the Great Hall, only a few of Arthur's knights sat at the long tables, alongside the Cait Sith clan. Gao, Drum and Axia took their previous seats, their food being delivered with the same efficiency as before.

Conversation was light, the knowledge that they'd hit a dead end weighing heavily on the duo's mind. It took a nudge from Shosetsu to remind them to bow when Oberon and Titania entered the hall. They also expressed their intention to cooperate with the investigation, giving the pair a small amount of hope.

Soon enough, it was time for the rulers of the fairy kingdom to depart, and Camelot Castle's knights gathered to say their goodbyes.

"We'll send word if we find anything," Oberon reassured them for what felt like the hundredth time. "Farewell, old friend. May our paths meet at a less turbulent time."

"Sire!"

Whatever Arthur's response would be was cut short by the frantic squire that came running in. Upon seeing the fay royalty, he performed a quick bow before hurriedly returning to his own lord. "Sires, come quick! There's an army amassed outside!"

"An army?" Arthur asked. "There was no mention of any army by the guards."

The group exchanged looks before following Arthur, who led them to a balcony that overlooked the castle town. A horde of figures clad in black armor stood outside the village square, all standing at attention. The streets were barren, shops and residences boarded up for the upcoming battle, but no damage had befell the buildings yet.

"Up there!" Drum pointed to a surprisingly familiar skeletal figure up in the sky. "Is that Gratos?"

Gao squinted, trying to make out any small detail. "It sorta looks like him, but there's something off…"

"Knight!" Arthur bellowed. "You have brought an army to my doorstep, such actions are tantamount to a declaration of war. Speak your purpose, or mine own army shall see fit to repel you!"

"My name is Voremos, the Second Knight of the Apocalypse," the figure proclaimed. "I have come to tell you of your ruin, ruler of Castle Camelot!"

"This knave thinks quite highly of himself…" Oberon murmured. "Making such a declaration whilst the rulers of two realms stand before him."

"But how is he even here?" asked Drum. "We saw Shido take care of him and the other knights back on Earth! They all got eaten by Yamigedo!"

"Something tells me he won't be in the mood to enlighten us," Shosetsu remarked.

"The Apocalypse Knights have been around for time immemorial," Titania said contemptuously. "They signal the end times, and it seems like they've deemed our little corner of the world as their next stomping grounds."

"We shall not bend to such a non-threat," Arthur huffed. "Percival, Gawain, ready the knights. Axia, find Merlin, then-"

"Arthur!" the named wizard's voice gasped out, its owner having barely finished his teleportation before he yelled out. "Someone is trying to access the vault!"

The king's eyes widened. "Are you sure?"

Merlin nodded gravely. "Positive. This show of force is a diversion. I must head to the vault. Axia, with me! We shall defend our treasures to the last!"

"Right," Axia sprinted toward Merlin, but stopped suddenly and turned to Drum. "Drum, I…"

The red dragon shook his head. "Go ahead, I know you can handle it." He pumped his fist, looking just as confident as ever. "Let me worry about the reception outside! I'll keep 'em off your back!"

Axia smiled and nodded back, but still jogged back to the red dragon. Before Drum could reassert his opinion, Axia reached up and planted a quick peck on Drum's cheek. "For luck," he said, before running back down the corridor.

Drum was dumbstruck, and absentmindedly rubbed the cheek Axia had kissed. "Yeah, luck…"

Gao grinned at his Buddy's shock, and turned to Arthur while Drum recovered his wits. "What's in the vault that's got Merlin so worried?" he asked.

"A variety of treasures accrued from our adventures, most of which would prove disastrous if they fell into the wrong hands. They're kept in a secret wing of the mountain this castle is built upon. I can only imagine what they are searching for." He turned towards the fairies. "I am sorry to ask this of you, but…"

"Say no more, old friend," Oberon proclaimed. "We would not abandon you in your time of need. We shall fight against this threat as well."

"Indeed," added Titania. "Dealing with this revolt should be quite fun. It's been so long since we've quelled a proper uprising."

Their forces rallied, Arthur stepped out onto the balcony. "Voremos!!" he bellowed, his voice carrying across the courtyard. "You have declared war against Camelot and her people! In doing so, you have issued your challenge against the Heroes of Legend World! For your insolence and impertinence, you shall be routed here and now! Knights of the Round Table! Charge!!"

---

Dr. Nagisa Hamasaki was not happy. The woman stalked the halls of the Buddy Police's medical wing, gripping her phone so tight she was half worried it would shatter.

The night before, her nephew, Mizuto, had barged into her room, distraught and seeking comfort. Nagisa had never understood her brother's need to coddle the boy - with him entering his teen years, it felt highly irresponsible for him to fall into hysterics still - but he'd sounded so afraid that she felt compelled to listen. He said he was having bad dreams, horrid visions of the figure that had destroyed the already ruined city district and thrown Tasuku's body like it was a rag doll.

Of that figure turning its demonic eyes on him next.

It had been impossible to deny the boy the simple comfort her hug could do, a pale imitation of his mother's own. Still it seemed to suffice, and he was able to sleep the rest of the night. The morning saw Mizuto through his dour mood, and it wasn't until she left to do her rounds that Nagisa felt her ire rise. Upon seeing Tasuku again, it nearly boiled over.

The boy was recovering steadily, but had begun asking when he could return to active duty. His call to Gao had calmed him down, but had also jump-started his need to be of use. That self-sacrificing attitude had always grated on Nagisa's nerves, but now, after knowing what it had done to her nephew, she was at her wits end. She wasn't proud that she snapped at him, lost herself in a rant that itself lost meaning halfway through, and ended with Tasuku asking if she needed to take a break.

And that was the kicker, wasn't it?

Tasuku asking her to take a break!?

The boy always had other's best interest in mind, but the thought of him advising anyone to 'take a break' when she knew he would be out on the field the second he was discharged? She had left the room immediately and prowled about until her anger quelled. No one dared break her stride; it wasn't the first time Tasuku's attitude had driven her up a wall, and everyone on the hospital staff knew it wouldn't be the last.

Her subconscious pacing eventually led her to the main office of the Buddy Police headquarters. Nagisa took a deep breath, grateful that no one had spotted her yet. She had words to give Count Dawn, but he did not deserve to be on the receiving end of her frustration. Not this time, at least. Her temper stilled, she took a step forward, the doors opening before her and drawing Dawn's attention from the monitor.

"Ahh, Dr. Hamasaki, good to see you. Is there any news about Tasuku?"

"He's fine," Nagisa said, tersely. "Taking a nap right now. How's the search for the criminal?"

"Slow," replied the Omni Lord. "Whatever disruption interfered with the electronic equipment affected everything from security cameras to smartphones." He turned to the main monitor, a large backdrop of the destroyed building filling the screen. "Even this picture, taken from a nearby observation area, away from the mass of electronics, was affected. We cannot zoom in any more than we have."

Nagisa stared at the picture with a frightful intensity. In the smoke, she could just make out the shape of the criminal holding up Tasuku by his shirt. She frowned harshly, remembering the lacerations and bruises that had littered the boy's body when he was brought in. And that had been with Jack taking the worst of the blow.

She could only imagine the terror Mizuto must have experienced seeing such an atrocity so close.

"And there still hasn't been any word on any possible leads?" she asked, her tone even despite her unease.

"Sadly, no. We are still far too short staffed. The officers that caught the brunt of Yamigedo's petrification are still recovering, to say nothing of the equipment we lost. Even the Japanese Self-Defense Force seems shorthanded. They've been hounding me for extra resources for hours, as if we have anything more to give!"

It was a rare day that saw Count Dawn rant, but Nagisa couldn't help but feel her mood lighten at the springboard it presented.

"Yes, it is quite a leap in logic to think our one spare operative and his Buddy constitute an excess of resources. It only shows how desperate they have become. We've all been finding ourselves rather shorthanded as of late. So, I wonder if you would consider-?"

"Really?" Dawn sighed. "You choose now to make that sales pitch when we're neck deep in trouble?"

"Don't give me that! My nephew was within spitting distance of that calamity. For all I know, he was the one who took the picture!"

"It was not him," Dawn said firmly. "It was the owner of one of the stalls who got a lucky angle. Not that it should concern you, neither he nor your nephew, or anyone else in the area, were hurt."

"But they still saw the destruction that criminal caused," she insisted. "It took far too long for Tasuku's reinforcements to arrive, and now one of our strongest operatives is out of commission. I think it's time you started reconsidering my proposal."

"We've gone over this," the Omni Lord's exasperated sigh indicated as much. "We do not have the time or budget to create and maintain these android police officers of yours. Plus, they hold a variety of weaknesses. Their fighting styles would become far too predictable, and if the Buddy Police ever suffered another attack on the same scale as Yamigedo's, the entire force would become inert."

"I'm not saying it would solve every problem, but you have to look at the pros. We'd never be understaffed ever again! If you're so worried about them becoming predictable, then we can put some in administrative positions." She tried to ignore the pointed stares of the administrators in the room. "Hero World uses a variation to great effect, why can't we?"

"I won't deny there is a credible benefit, but you must understand there are greater consequences that could result from this action. The Self-Defense Force would pester us to no end for the blueprints of these androids. The only reason they haven't done it to Hero World is because it's out of their jurisdiction."

"So then we just give them the blasted schematics!" She knew her temper had flared again, and winced internally at her slip.

"You're playing with fire, Nagisa," the Omni Lord huffed, his voice infuriatingly calm. "You know as well as I the nightmare that would produce, not to mention if those blueprints fell into the wrong hands. I understand your concern. If you wish to create one of these androids to protect your nephew, that is your business. As far as the Buddy Police itself is concerned, I'm afraid I must decline your offer."

Nagisa couldn't offer anything to that, and sighed as a heavy silence fell between them.

A silence that was broken with a cry from one of the monitors.

"Sir, we've detected an enormous energy surge in Legend World! It matches the signals from the Cho-Tokyo attacks!"

"It what!?"

The screen lit up, a nondescript model of a Legend World settlement taking up the screen. And it was surrounded by that energy that surrounded Cho-Tokyo. Count Dawn began barking orders, sending his attendants into a flurry of typing, but Nagisa tuned them out. Even if Gao defeated this threat, the collateral damage would still be immense. And if he failed…

Her mind imagined that level of destruction happening again, spreading from world to world. She couldn't let that tragedy come to pass, not when they had only just begun to recover. Their forces needed one more ace to lessen the burden, and the doctor's eyes fell on her phone as one idea made itself known.

Nagisa Hamasaki eyed the map one last time before turning on her heel and leaving the room, bringing up her contact list on her phone and scrolling to one name: Daiyama Hagane.

Count Dawn wouldn't approve of this either - there were a myriad of reasons on why Daiyama had been let go, not the least being his volatile nature while on the field - but there was little choice now. She would take the blame if she had to, so long as they had a backup plan.

She steeled herself and hit the call button.

---

Arthur's battle cry echoed out through the castle walls as well as the courtyard. All at once, several dozen nondescript knights, alongside several Knights of the Round Table, ran out with swords and spears drawn. The undead army halted in their marching, and braced for impact. Warriors clad in silver armor clashed with their black, skeletal counterparts, a cacophony of battle cries and clanging metal filling the air.

The kingdom's knights began to break the skeleton army's formation, but it was like a drop in a bucket. Above, on the balcony overlooking the small city, the remaining knights and humans surveyed the situation with increasing anxiety.

"They're gonna be overrun if we don't do anything," said Gao. "We have to help them!"

"My knights can handle the foot soldiers," said Arthur. "We need to concentrate our efforts on the generals - those Knights of the Apocalypse. Once we take them down, their army will fall like a house of cards."

"Got it. The kid and I'll take out that red head," remarked Drum. "You can have first crack at the others." He said to Arthur.

The king shook his head. "I'm still needed here. If they sent someone to raid the vault, then they might try invading the castle. I shall protect the homestead while you deal with the outside threat."

Drum shrugged. "That works. Just means more fun for us, eh kid?"

Gao smirked, but Oberon cleared his throat. "Are you sure he should join us? Forgive me for being blunt, but are you not concerned for the wellbeing of this one? I had assumed he was your Buddy, and thus a human. Humans don't tend to fare well in this style of combat."

"You don't have to worry about me," Gao said confidently. "I've trained in Dragon World with Drum's clan! With him by my side, we can face anything."

"The kid and I have been put through the ringer before," added Drum. "I know for a fact that he can handle his own."

Oberon stared at them for a moment, while Titania turned her gaze to Shosetsu. "I suppose you will be joining them, as well?" she asked.

"I have to," answered Shosetsu. "The world I fight for is under attack, and my friends might have need of my strength."

Both fairies nodded at that, though Oberon still looked contemplative. "Very well, young ones," he said at last. "We shall allow you your chance. However, I ask that you three take on that proclaimer." His eyes turned toward Voremos, whose figure was rapidly descending to the battlefield.

"We will deal with his comrades," continued Titania. "It is time we play our own game of Divide and Conquer."

Drum looked doubtful, but Gao nodded in agreement. "We'll take all the help we can get."

"I wish you well in the coming battle!" Oberon said, his voice booming before he and his wife vanished in a flash of light.

"Can't say they don't know how to make an exit," Drum remarked. He then looked at Cait Sith, who watched the battlefield with growing apprehension. "What about you, furball? Wanna get in on the action?"

"This is a little more than I bargained for, meow!" Cait Sith said as he clutched onto Drum.

"You should stay here," Shosetsu advised. "You're more geared for support than live combat."

"That might not be such a bad idea," Cait Sith replied. "But I'm not gonna sit on my paws while you guys fight. Wait here, I can still help you!" He bounced off to the hallway and yelled out. "Order of the Cait Sith clan, to me!"

The 5 other felines ran out from the hall and gathered around Cait Sith in a circle, each raising their sword into the air. A large, yellow orb materialized above where their swords pointed, and the felines lobbed it towards the group. Everyone winced as the bright light dispersed around them, then marveled as they felt new energy course through them, filling them with vigor.

"That was a full powered Gift of the Marquis," Cait Sith explained once everyone found their wits. "A good luck present, and a thanks for helping me find my place."

"You rock, Cait Sith!" cheered Gao. "C'mon guys. We got some butt to kick!"

"Right behind ya, kid," Drum hollered.

Both humans and dragon leapt off the balcony's railing, Buddy Skills flaring to life as they descended upon the chaotic battlefield. Shosetsu joined the knights near the castle, dive-bombing the invading skeletons with deadly precision, leaving the duo to fly further into the fray.

---

Two skeletal warriors - one clad in blue armor, the other in yellow - watched the battle from a distance, standing on top one of the flat-roofed buildings to avoid being seen.

"Everything's going well so far," Thanatos observed. "The majority of their forces have been coaxed out into the open like fools."

"You said it. All we gotta do is keep up the momentum," Aberrucia laughed. "Those royal dimwits won't know what hit em!"

"'Dimwits' are we?"

The voice caused both to turn, the two being stared down by a peeved looking Oberon.

"I see not even the gift of immortality could grant you the sense to refrain from underestimating your foes," he declared. "A lesson is in order, and it has been far too long since I've put an upstart in their place."

"So, the wicked knights have cast their lot with Morganna's kidnapper," Titania pondered. "Correct me if I'm wrong, but were there not four of you?"

"Our ranks are none of your concern," the blue armored skeleton grunted. "We are Thanatos and Abberucia, the last two Knights of the Apocalypse. Consider it an honor to be felled by us."

"Evil Light!" the yellow one declared, holding up his scales until they glowed, several streams of light launching towards the fairy king.

"A party trick." Oberon opened his hand, a coalescence of energy shaped like butterflies scattered and extinguished the skeleton's attack. "Surely this is not the extent of your power?"

"We were not intending on an immediate confrontation," Thanatos said. "But if it is amusement you seek…" He tossed a black, dragon-shaped skull in between them, and the world was shrouded in fog.

Three eyes fixed to the ceiling opened to glare at the arena below, draconic skulls serving as entrances to the skull pit - the realm's personalized spectator room. Raised platforms provided the perfect perching point for the combatants, an unseen elevator bringing the fay royalty into their positions.

"What is this realm?" Oberon wondered.

"A souvenir from Yamigedo," Aberrucia chortled. "We are trapped in this prison until one of us wins a Buddyfight."

"You can't possibly mean to stall us through a card game." Oberon turned his gaze to one of the walls and let more lances of energy fly, their impacts shaking the area. To his surprise, the walls showed no sign of his attack even landing. "What sorcery is this?"

"No matter what you try, this arena can only be dispersed with a Buddyfight," Thanatos explained. "Best play by the rules, great king of the fey. Or are you too much of a coward to enter a game of skill?"

"You speak quite flippantly for being in my line of sight."

"There's no need to fret, husband. Let us play their game," said Titania. "I have always wanted to try out this mortal's sport. The fact that it could be used to topple Yamigedo proves its worth."

Oberon glared at the two skeletons, but sighed and moved towards his wife. "If you wish it, I shall help in whatever way I can."

"Good, then you'll be my Buddy. Stand behind me and wait for my call." After receiving a nod from her husband, Titania leapt to her side of the area, magic gathering in her hand as she began to recite her fight chant. "Oh, what fools these mortals be. This slumber shall be their last. Luminize, Capricious Fae."

"Release the deep abyss of the Apocalypse, which swallows even the darkness! Luminize, Apocalypse Knights!"

"Raise the Flag," both called in unison.

"Legend World," Titania gently said.

"Darkness Dragon World," Thanatos growled.

"I'll take the first move. Charge and Draw," Titania eyed her hand. "I Pay one Gauge and Life to call Mischievous Puck to the left."

An elven creature materialized from the card, his simple clothes matching the color tones of his caller's garb. Transparent wings sprouted from his back, framing the white hair that cascaded down between them.

"Lady Titania," the fairy greeted with an exaggerated bow. "To what do I owe the pleasure of being summoned?"

"Dear Puck, your Queen needs your talents in dealing with these rabble-rousers. I trust you are up to the task?"

"The Puck is always ready to lighten up the party!" he said with an enthusiastic laugh.

"Then I would use your ability to fetch my husband for me."

"So doth my queen command," came his reply, flitting over to the gadget and lifting a card from it. "Can't let him miss out on any of the fun."

"Indeed. Next, I call Cait Sith in Boots to the center."

The surprised feline's eyes widened . "Meow!? What am I doing here? I thought I was off combat duty!"

"My apologies little one," Titania's voice alerted Cait Sith. "But your Queen needs your talents. Fortunately, I think you'll find this fighting stage to be well within your capabilities."

"Wait… is this a Buddyfight?" he asked, taking note of the field.

"Indeed it is, and it is time to go on the offensive. I would have you attack the fighter."

"Well, if it means getting a chance to get a swing at them," he pounced, thrashing his small rapier at the skeleton's armor, his life falling by one.

"A mere scratch," Thanatos huffed.

"Only the first of many," Titania said while Cait Sith returned to his position. "That will conclude my turn."

"My turn, Draw. Charge and Draw."

A timid start at first glance, but she seems far too ready for what her field presents. Aberrucia, what is Puck's skill?

He's a pest, that's for sure, his comrade's voice echoed in his mind. By sending him to the drop zone, he can send one of your monsters back into the hand.

Had he the muscle to perform the action, Thanatos would have scowled at the fay. _As expected of the fairies' ruler, she's a schemer. In order to get to her, I must destroy that Cait, which will only go to fuel her other cards. Meanwhile Puck will skip past any protection I put on my cards. And if she calls Oberon next turn, their effects will all be negated. In that case… _

"I Buddy Call Third Knight of the Apocalypse, Aberrucia to the left!"

Already!? His fellow knight cried before being swept up in a whirl of energy, his form materializing on the field.

"Next I call myself to the right and Voremos to the center!"

A copy of the blue armored knight appeared, following their temporary leader.

"I see we're going with aesthetics for this round," Aberrucia snarked.

"You know the purpose of this formation," Thanatos muttered. "Now attack!"

"Far be it from me to go against a theme. Evil Light!" A flurry of beams launched from the scales Aberrucia carried, skewering the small Cait Sith and dispersing him quickly. The lights' path did not stop there, and they continued on to bombard Titania, dropping her life by two. "Ordinarily, I'd only deal out one damage whenever I destroy a monster, but thanks to being the Buddy, I can dish out another every time!"

Oberon, who had been watching impassively, narrowed his eyes. "Taking pot shots now? How unbecoming."

"It is of little concern" reassured Titania. "Cait Sith will send the top two cards from my deck to the drop zone upon his defeat."

"Voremos!"

"Puck's skill activates, but with how you were eying him, you should have an inkling of what he does. Nonetheless, we shall dance this tune with you."

"Care to tango?" Puck giggled gleefully, magic surrounding him as he circled the undead horseman, glowing brighter until it formed a large sphere that enveloped the other monster, condensing itself and shooting back to Thanatos' hand.

"Then I shall finish the attack!" Thanatos' double slashed through Titania, but the queen barely flinched before beginning her next move.

"My turn, Draw. Charge and Draw. Cast, The Hardworking Fairies for an extra two gauge. Then I Buddy Call my husband, Fairy King Oberon to the center!"

Several balls of light flitted about as gauge was added and then paid to bring Oberon to the battlefield. The king of the fay leapt from his wife's side, floating gracefully onto his called area.

"The King of the Fairies shall see to your end. With seven or more Fairies and Heroes in the Drop Zone, your monsters will find themselves woefully powerless," proclaimed Oberon.

"Such a fight was to be expected in a battle against the fey. Though I have to admit, you know more about the rules than you let on. This is not your first Buddyfight, is it?"

"I must confess, I found their competition rather charming," admitted Titania. "And what ruler would I be if I didn't anticipate any avenue of attack my opponent might bring? Still, you are the first to match wits with me in an official match. Consider yourself honored."

"I suppose I should show my appreciation by going all out," Thanatos huffed, glad that his expression was forever frozen on his skull. Consider it a thank you for showing your hand.

---

The skies above the town were as chaotic as the surface; volleys of arrows were shot at both Gao and Drum, forcing them to keep a lower altitude and clash with the soldiers on the ground. The skeletons were weak, but they made up for it with numbers. Both human and dragon were forced to duck and weave through the horde's charging bodies, until they came to the center of the courtyard, where a familiar white-haired knight locked in combat with Voremos.

"Look, there's Lancelot!" shouted Drum. "How'd he get here before us!?"

"We can ask him later," replied Gao. "Right now, he looks like he needs our help!"

Lancelot was losing ground; Voremos' mount gave him a higher vantage point that came with an extra layer of mobility that proved tricky for him to parry. The steed donned armor similar to its rider that made aiming for a weak point nearly impossible. In spite of its demonic appearance, the horse seemed to prance about the battlefield, ducking out of Lancelot's reach and letting its rider swipe at him with his serrated sword. It began running in tighter and tighter circles, forcing Lancelot to turn swiftly on his heel to keep them in his line of sight.

Anytime he attempted to leap out of the trap, the surrounding black knights would close in, forcing him to face their ruler. And on one last rotation, Voremos had a shot to Lancelot's back.

"You shall be the first offering to the coming destruction!" he bellowed, his sword already mid-swing.

Before Voremos' sword lowered, Drum's own clanged hard against it. The red dragon put every ounce of strength into the swing, stopping it cold.

"Listen, pal," he growled, pushing the undead swordsman back. "This guy just got back onto the straight and narrow, and I'm not gonna let you end it like this!" He roared, hooking the sword under one of the three serrated edges that decorated the knight's weapon and used it as leverage to push it up.

Voremos relented his assault, bringing his sword back to avoid being pushed off his mount.

"Insignificant gnat!" the skeleton spat. "You shall pay for your interference! Skewer him, Pale Riders" He thrust his arm out, the skeletal soldiers around him responding in kind and charging Drum.

Drum braced himself for the oncoming march, but his Buddy leapt out in front, vaulting himself up using the several of the skeletal soldiers as leverage. He launched himself above the army, aiming a fist right at Voremos.

"Eat this!" yelled Gao.

"Cast! Black Dragon Shield!" Gao's armored fist landed right in the middle of the projected shield, its caster laughing darkly. "So eager to meet your end. I shall grant you your request, foolish human! This is where you fall!"

He readied his sword, the edges glowing in the light created from his spell, but it also lit up the grin Gao was giving him.

"You think so, huh?" Gao laughed, his other hand reaching out to grab at the edge of the shield before it faded away. With the extra leverage, he threw himself over the spell to the shock of the surrounding warriors. He pushed himself off of it, both feet kicking out to slam into Voremos' chest. Even with his armor protecting him, the force behind the kick had him reeling. With no support behind him, he found himself launched off his horse, landing unceremoniously on his back.

Drum was the first to recover. "Hah, bet you didn't see that coming, didja? Leave it to the most unconventional Buddyfighter out there to flip the script!"

A demonic neigh interrupted his cheer, and the group turned to see the black stallion rampage close to a residential building.

"That steed is out of control," Lancelot shouted.

"I'll take care of the horse. Think you can manage tall, pale and scary over there?" asked Gao.

"Leave it to us, kid." Drum replied, and grinned smugly at Voremos once his Buddy ran towards the rebellious equine. "Hear that? My Buddy's gonna make sure you don't have any backup comin'."

"I don't need reinforcements to deal with you, louse!"

"You're going to wish you had!" Lancelot shouted, charging from the side with his sword held high.

"Black Dragon Shield," Voremos responded, catching the knight's swing with his spell. "Was that your definition of a sneak attack? You had best try harder."

"Says you!" Drum called, bringing his sword down to Voremos' unprotected front.

"Midnight Shadow!" Drum's blade passed harmlessly through an after image, the real Voremos reforming behind him. "Guillotine Cutter!" He threw out his hand, launching an energy disk at the armordragon's unprotected back.

The attack was too close to effectively dodge, and Drum grimaced as he braced himself for the impact, but was saved when Lancelot charged in, thrusting his sword to take the brunt of it. His eyes widened at how durable his new sword was, and he grunted as he dispersed the energy with a hard slash.

"Impressive," conceded Voremos. "It seems you have come prepared. But it is far too late for you."

"Doesn't look that way to me," Drum laughed. "I'm only just getting started. Your crew isn't gonna step foot into the vault."

"It appears I've been found out," replied Voremos, with an oddly smug tone. _Even still, my job here is already done. By now, Muichi should be… _

His thoughts were disrupted as both knights swung at him again, and he parried them with the length of his weapon.

---

"So, this is the fabled vault?" Muichi murmured, glaring at the almost too obvious gated door.

The passage leading into the depths of the mountain took longer than she had thought, and without Morganna's natural inclination to Legend World to disable the traps, it would've taken even longer. Distantly, she wondered who or what would expend the effort to make the tunnels as wide as they were, though she suspected the treasures inside warranted such space.

"That is correct," Morganna answered tiredly, magic still drained from keeping the traps suppressed. "Beyond these doors are a plethora of artifacts collected from Arthur and Merlin's travels… as well as items which were deemed too powerful and locked away."

"And not a squire to be seen," Muichi scoffed. "Guess Voremos was right about the security. Time for a quick grab and go."

"You're not going anywhere," a voice called from the hallway.

Both figures turned, brows raised seeing Merlin standing in the middle of the hall.

"Typical," the human sighed to herself. "That skeleton can't do anything right."

"I'd be less concerned about your comrade's planning and focus on yourself," Merlin said, pointing his staff at the duo.

"And I'd be careful with that stick if I were you," Muichi said, stepping aside to bring Morganna into full view. The sorceress was bound in glowing chains - chains Merlin recognized being from the Gleipnir spell, curiously enough - and looked forlornly at her former master.

"Merlin… Forgive me…" Morganna rasped, lowering her head.

"So that's why you kidnapped Morganna!?" Merlin accused. "To gain access to the vault and steal its treasure?"

"You're pretty smart for an old codger. Perhaps a little too smart for your own good." She grunted and threw Morganna to the side, the witch yelping as she struck the wall. "I can't have anyone interrupting our plans now…"

"You must think yourself quite the fighter if you boast such confidence," said Merlin. "However, neither I nor my apprentice shall allow you to pass! Cloud of Doom!"

The spell was slow but had a wide radius. The considerable width of the tunnel was soon filled up with the blue fog he created. Muichi jumped back and raised a hand, her gauntlet glowing a dark red as the mist collided with it.

"Do not underestimate my power, old man!"

Merlin's eyes widened as his magic dissipated, almost absorbed into the girl's palm, Muichi's hand clenching down on it as if it were sand. "Have a taste of your own medicine!" She yelled, hurling the magic in her hand, now engulfed in flames.

Merlin crossed his arms as the impact struck him, crying out in pain as his body was engulfed in the magic pyre. Before the flames consumed him completely, his eyes lit up and he cast a spell that dispersed them. Clothing burnt and panting heavily, the weakened wizard could only glare at the girl as his legs gave out, collapsing where he stood.

"Well, that was fun," Muichi remarked dryly. "You'd think they'd send someone more capable, but here I am tending to the elderly." Her eyes narrowed as another set of footsteps echoed through the halls, and her frown turned into a smirk as she saw who it was. Pay dirt. Target sighted.

"Merlin!?" Axia cried, rushing down the hallway. His mind processed what he saw in a blink, and he leveled his spear at Muichi. "Don't move!"

"I don't think you're in any position to order me around, dragon." Muichi sneered. "You're drastically outmatched, in case the old man's condition wasn't proof enough. Plus those knights up top'll keep your fool friends busy for quite a while."

"You're the girl Drum told me about…" Axia murmured. "That criminal fighter who kidnapped…" his eyes darted to Morganna, who let out a defeated breath. "You're cruel. Not even she deserved this!"

"Think what you want about me," Muichi smirked, and turned back to the vault. "I'm just following orders." She raised a fist, intent on assaulting the door but cried out when she felt a jolt of magic hit her. She turned on her heel, catching another bolt aimed for her back, and crushed it in her hand.

"Don't ignore me!" Axia shouted, his staff still shimmering with a new spell. "I don't know what you want from that vault, but I won't allow you any further!"

"Don't provoke me, lizard," Muichi sneered. "Unless you want to end up like the old man."

Axia gulped, but stood firm, keeping his eyes trained on the girl before him. "No deal," he said firmly. "My Drum-kins wouldn't back down, and neither will I."

Muichi barked out a laugh. "You? Fight me? Please, don't kid yourself. I took down that old man single handedly, and you don't seem the fighting type. What makes you think you could do any better?"

"I'm a lot more than a pretty face," Axia declared, garnering a curious look from the girl. It was a remark one would've expected from Drum, but it got him ready and focused. "I can handle my own in a one-on-one match."

"You're wrong," a voice rasped, and both combatants turned to watch Morganna rise from the floor, breaking free of the Gleipnir spell that bound her. "It's two on one."

"Morganna? You're going to help me?" Axia asked dubiously.

"I don't appreciate being tied up," the sorceress said dryly. "Besides, you wouldn't turn down a helping hand, would you? Like it or not, I know full well that this girl's power surpasses your own."

Axia hesitated, but drew his line of sight back to Muichi when he saw the girl shift her stance. She was ready for them, and even he knew that her physical combat skills dwarfed his own. But with a magic user to help keep her at a distance…

"Alright, you can help," he said. "Stay back and cast any spell you think will help,"

"Oh, don't worry," Morganna said, lighting up her hands with magic. "I know just the spell for this situation."

Axia nodded and charged, swinging his staff down towards the female fighter. Muichi sidestepped and made to grab the spear, but Axia was too quick and pulled back, twisting his body to let him kick at Muichi. The girl was just as agile, and ducked just enough to dodge, performing a backflip to gain distance. Axia steadied himself and launched several blasts of lightning at the girl, all of which were caught or deflected by her gauntlets.

This doesn't make any sense. She shouldn't be able to stop my attacks with a Core Gadget… Axia thought, his eyes trained on her left gauntlet, and the diamond shaped gem embedded in it. That jewel must be giving her a boost…

This time Muichi charged and Axia had to block her blow with his staff. A loud clang echoed through the hallway, quickly followed by grunts from both combatants as they parried and counterattacked each others' blows. What Axia lacked in strength, he made up for in dexterity. His spear gave him added reach, and allowed him to gain some control over where the girl's punches landed.

Muichi swung hard, but Axia proved too agile; he spun on his heel, forcing the girl to over swing and stumble forward to right herself. It gave him enough room to launch another kick, this one hitting her side and propelling her a small distance away. Not to be outdone, Muichi slammed her fist against the floor, flipping herself up and catching herself, landing in a crouch.

She's strong, Axia thought, leveling his spear to the girl. It's not just that jewel, she has a fair bit of experience fighting as well.

Muichi lifted her arms, holding out her hands and revealing four cards held between her fingers. "Cast", she growled, her cards glowing and merging into a large ball of red energy. "Dragonic Shoot!" A large volley of energy lances shot out from her hands, each trained on the dragowizard. Axia readied his staff, already preparing a spell to stop the volley, but someone else took action first.

"Don't just stand there!" Morganna's voice cut through the air, a different energy shield appeared in front of him. Axia turned, stunned to see the battle worn sorceress cast such a strong spell. "Go on!"

Axia's mind raced, forcefully pushing any doubts or questions he still had about Morganna. He tensed his legs up, and he gripped his staff tightly before sprinting off. Muichi's energy lances sailed past him as he dashed, and any stray bolt was caught by a swift twirl of his spear. He closed the distance between them too fast for Muichi to do anything, and managed to slide into a crouch before performing a sweeping kick, knocking the human off her feet.

She landed painfully on her back, but Axia was already on top of her. He aimed for the gem, lunging his spear down at it, but the girl had positioned herself for a quick escape. Just before the tip of Axia's staff connected with her gauntlet, she snaked her legs up to her stomach, and kicked up, catching the dragowizard in the stomach and propelling him off.

Axia clenched his stomach, but managed to land safely. The kick was for distance rather than power, and it gave both combatants a moment to catch their breath. Axia panted lightly, and winced when he saw Muichi leap back on her feet, looking like she could go another round or two.

I can't overpower her, he thought, his staff crackling with energy. The power difference is just too large. But maybe… He turned to Morganna, who wasn't in any better shape. "Can you still cast a spell?" he asked, keeping his voice low.

"I have enough for a good stun spell," she replied. "But with your gymnastics, I've not been able to cast it."

Axia smiled at that. "Get it ready. When I jump, launch the spell."

"When you jump?" Morganna said, her smile widening as she looked at Axia's back. "Perfect. I'll be ready."

Axia nodded, eyes solely trained on the girl in front of him. Muichi hadn't moved a muscle since they started talking, but her eyes held a fierce glare, as if she was waiting for them.

She's prepared her counterattack, thought Axia, but that's why I need to rely on Morganna. He sprinted forward, staff alight with magical electricity, ready for the moment the girl would make her move. His mind ran with every countermeasure he could think of to duck, parry or deflect against the melee that would follow, and as he leapt up, he couldn't help but think that Drum would be proud of him.

Time seemed to slow down around them, and Axia's heightened senses let him hear Morganna's shout as the crackling of magic energy fired and hit its target.

But not who Axia was expecting.

A sharp pain shot through Axia's back, and the dragowizard fell to the floor, his lower back stinging from the magic discharge. It was all he could do to turn back to the source, and his eyes widened when he saw Morganna look down on him, hands still glowing from her cast spell.

"You really are too trusting," she chuckled. "Putting all your hopes on someone who you fought as an enemy not so long ago. It hasn't been that long, has it, Dragowizard Qinus Axia?"

"Morganna? But why…" Axia managed out. "I thought… you said… you'd help…"

"Oh, I did," the witch replied, looking much less exhausted than she did before. "But I never said whom I would help, now did I?" She stood up to her full height, brushing the dirt off her face and dress. "Color me impressed, Dragowizard. You lasted much longer than I thought you would. Muichi really is a one woman army, isn't she?"

"You… you faked your own kidnapping?" Axia asked, his mind racing to comprehend what had just happened.

"Ten points to the clever dragon," Morganna replied. "Yes, I always wanted to try subterfuge. Puck always made it look so fun."

Axia grimaced, his time in Legend World letting him put a face to the name. Puck was Legend World's number one trickster, and he knew any scheme based on that was sure to be trouble. This woman is no joke. I gotta warn Drum, Axia concentrated, throwing his senses out to try and locate Drum, to tell him of what had happened, but a sharp pain blocked his concentration.

"Nu-uh-uh, no being sneaky," Morganna reprimanded, as if he was nothing but a child. Her hand shone with a dark light, its aura revealing the magic in the area. The physical representation of Axia's magic, a softly glowing teal chain materialized in front of her. "I can't have you spilling the beans on us, now can I?" She tightened her grasp on the chain until it cracked, Axia recoiling at the violent disconnection.

She destroyed my magic like it was nothing… Axia gulped as the sorceress turned her attention to him.

"I'll give you credit. That spell I cast should've knocked you out for at least an hour. Yet here you are, doing everything in your power to call for reinforcements. I'd be impressed," her playful smirk quickly morphed into a hard frown. "If it didn't irk me so much."

"So, what are you going to do to me now?" Axia gulped, the sudden realization of his position now frightfully clear. "Dispose of me?"

That got a surprising reaction from Muichi, who had been content to stay silent during Morganna's showboating. The girl almost seemed fit to recoil, but Morganna spoke before any fear could take root.

"Oh, my no, nothing so messy as that." Both Muichi and Axia relaxed, but Axia knew something worse was in store. "We're taking you with us, back to our home." She knelt down and cupped the dragon's snout in her hand, smiling wickedly. "Your fate will be in my hands for as long as you are in my care." Her grip tightened on his chin, and he could feel her digging her nails into his scales. "This is the price one pays for interfering with my plans."

She released her grip, and Axia had to hold back a wince as his head hit the floor. With his senses weak from Morganna's strike, he was unaware that the sorceress had cast another spell. His eyelids felt heavy, and he struggled to stay awake. Desperately, he threw out his magic sense to Drum, managing to visualize the tether that connected them. He knew Drum was in a fight, but he had to let him know. He put all his remaining strength into visualizing an image of him, and smiled when he felt it go through. Small though it was, he managed to get Drum's attention, and confidence filled him as he felt himself lose consciousness.

"Cheeky little whelp," he heard Morganna sneer. "We have to hurry now. Muichi, be a dear and destroy the vault door." The girl complied and the door shattered after another well timed punch. "Sometimes brute force is especially handy."

Axia clutched his staff as he felt chains encircle him, stifling a sob as he heard the duo loot the vault.

Forgive me Drum… he thought, as his mind faded and carried him into blissful darkness.

---

A loud explosion shook the arena, Oberon allowing himself to smirk as he watched his target disintegrate in a hail of pixels. Titania chuckled as her husband's latest assault left the blue armored skeleton bereft of monsters, save for his Buddy Called counterpart.

"She sure has you in a jam," Aberrucia taunted. "Barely five turns in and she's already destroyed your formation twice over. Not helped by that Oberon nullifying every monster you call out"

"And what does it say that she's left you where you are?" Thanatos growled. "You're not even worth the effort of destroying."

"Hah, you're kidding yourself. I'm the only reason we've been doing any damage! It's obvious she appreciates my color commentary. Without me, she'd be left with your ugly mug!"

"Nobody needs your commentary! This is exactly why Voremos put us on standby. We need to bring in results!"

"Well, this is the result of choosing me as your Buddy, so get used to it!"

"My, you both talk a lot," Titania tittered as Oberon ceased his latest barrage. "You would do well to focus on your true enemy. Infighting will get you nowhere. You two are part of a team, are you not?"

"Don't pretend to understand our dilemma!" Thanatos shouted. "And don't try to preach to us about teamwork. As if you would ever care about someone in a lower station than you!"

Titania's playful gaze dropped, her eyes glaring sharply at the duo. "My apologies, I had gathered that one could understand each other in a Buddyfight. Perhaps I have erred, or perhaps there is nothing to you worth understanding. Either way, this charade has gone on long enough. Final Phase!"

"Final!?"

"Phase!?" Thanatos finished. "But the fay don't have any Impacts in their arsenal!"

"Guess again. Allow me to show you my husband's true sense of humor. Cast, Oberon's Prank!"

The card's namesake laughed uproariously as he lifted his arms up, pooling energy into the palm of his hand.

"So, this is the full extent of the Fairy Kingdom's might…" Though it remained unmoving, his skull face looked quite happy. Just so, this loss shall also see our goals fulfilled. Muichi should have everything well in hand.

Titania was explaining her Impact's effect, but most of it was swallowed up by the cacophonous whirlwind generated by the spell. _Aberrucia can relay the information to the others while Voremos leads the next charge. My role in this has been fulfilled. _

Oberon thrust his arm out. the building light coalescing into his hand like his standard attack did.

Using subterfuge of fairies, creatures known for their trickery and deceit… the irony is palpable, yet why do I feel I am missing a deeper level? The noise and light were all consuming as the spell was launched, filling Thanatos' vision with a binding light. The thought came to him as the energy wave struck.

I remember…it's how our old ruler operated.

Thanatos' life ticked to 0, and the arena vanished as suddenly as it appeared. Both fairies were deposited back near the castle grounds, now nearly empty of combatants.

"Well, that certainly was a lark," Titania huffed, turning to see Thanatos' card slowly drifting down to the ground. "I suppose that is the drawback to that field. The loser's powers are sealed away."

"Then I take it, this is our prize?" Oberon nodded to the falling card, reaching up to take it.

Aberrucia snatched Thanatos' card before it could fall further, seated comfortably atop his mount. We prevented the fay from getting involved and learned more about their power. I'd say the results'll speak for themselves.

"Sorry to fight and run, but we have other plans," he laughed as the fairies' eyes narrowed, glaring daggers. "Don't give me that look, I have plenty of friends to keep you company!

A horde of skeletons materialized around the fay duo, Aberrucia laughing at their plight as he took to the sky. "Until we meet again!"

"Wretched cur. Stealing my husband's reward… Diaone Shee!" Titania bellowed, the knight materializing from her Core Gadget. "Follow that coward of a knight. We will handle the rabble."

The fairy offered a nod before taking to the skies, chasing after the rapidly shrinking dot on the horizon.

---

The town square had long since been deserted, stalls once full of happy vendors and their patrons now lay upturned or destroyed by the monsters' clash. Arthur's knights had thinned the invading skeletons considerably, but it only served to make the destroyed square more noticeable. Drum used the pity and sorrow he felt from the scene to push him forward, turning the dour emotions into rage and fury that powered his blows.

Even without his steed, Voremos was a powerhouse; the red armored knight's sword could cleave through stone, as one unlucky building had been the proxy for, and Drum had to brace himself anytime he tried to block those strikes. Having Lancelot aid him helped immensely, and the two traded offense and defense to throw Voremos off.

Behind them, Gao had managed to keep Voremos' steed away from the buildings, having jumped onto its back and tugging on its reigns haphazardly. An equestrian he was not, but he could match Drum's stubbornness and it was this strength that let him guide the unruly horse into a frenzied circle around them. It was Gao's unconventionality at its finest, and it let him focus on keeping the armored skeleton penned in.

Just before his next charge, an unmistakable shade of blue flashed through Drum's mind and stopped him in his tracks. A sickening feeling made Drum's jaw tighten as if utter despair threatened to overtake him. Worst of all, the forlorn words that echoed 'I'm, sorry Drum' in his mind could only be from one individual.

I could've sworn it was… But that would mean…

"Drum, wake up!"

Lancelot called out to bring Drum back to his senses before the next attack came, but Voremos had also stopped as if he had experienced the same thing.

"You have failed."

His declaration chilled Drum to the bone, but also seemed to signal his mount. It halted from its imposed canter and bucked hard, its reins igniting in a flurry of red fire that forced Gao to relinquish his grasp and be catapulted into a nearby fruit stand. Free of its passenger, the pitch-black horse galloped towards its master, who grabbed onto the flaming reins with no hint of discomfort, jumping on top of his mount and galloping into the sky.

"Where is he going?" Lancelot wondered. "And what was he muttering about?"

"He said we failed…" Drum swallowed the lump in his throat and turned toward the castle. No sign of any conflict could be seen from where he was, which left one frightening possibility.

"Drum?" Lancelot asked, shaking the red dragon gently.

It did nothing to rouse Drum, his mind wanting to desperately deny the remaining conclusion. "Axia…"

"Axia?" Gao parroted, but then followed where Voremos was headed and saw another figure flying over the horizon. "Up there!"

Drum's eyes followed his Buddy's finger, and he gasped when he saw the girl that had attacked Tasuku somehow flying where Voremos was heading. Even worse, she had Axia slung over her shoulder, the dragowizard decidedly unconscious.

Words failed him; his body acted on its own and his legs propelled him onto the nearest roof, using it to gain speed and leverage. It was much faster than simply flying, and it allowed him to get a better push off when he finally did fly.

"Axia!!" he bellowed, the sound carrying across the town square.

It was more than enough to catch Muichi's attention, and she slowed her flight to turn and face the furious dragon. There he is, her eyes narrowed, and she thrust her fist out. "This one too…"

But she hadn't noticed Axia respond to Drum's cry; the dragowizard had managed to force his eyes open and nearly gasped when he saw Drum charge at them. Much as it warmed his heart seeing Drum fly for his sake, he knew such a reckless attack would be no match for Muichi's power. Thinking quickly, he realized he still had a death grip on his staff, and channeled as much power as he could into it for one last attack. "Great Thundershock!!"

The discharge of power served to switch back into his Dragowizard garb, while also startling Muichi out of her aim. The red haired girl snarled, but any reaction was halted when the massive current struck her, the girl screaming to the heavens as both she and Axia were electrocuted, the dragon's pained grunts joining hers. When the spell was finished, they both fell from the sky, bodies limp.

Drum resumed his charge, reaching out to grab a now falling Axia. The dragowizard managed to lean into the free fall, letting gravity pull him closer. Drum swiped in desperation, missing Axia's hand but managing to grab onto his flailing scarf. Both dragon's smiled at the contact, but before Drum could correct his flight pattern to catch Axia, a hail of lights bombarded the red dragon that forced him back. His claw tightened, and the force served to rip off a piece of Axia's scarf, kept tightly clenched in Drum's hand.

"Evil Light!" came the attack declaration, and the yellow coated skeleton of the apocalypse rose behind them.

Axia's descent was stopped with an armored arm abruptly grabbing him, knocking the wind out him and causing his staff to fall to the town below.

Neither noticed a portal opening below the falling girl, momentum doing its part in guiding her through it.

Drum couldn't find it in himself to care, his eyes were trained solely on Axia. His body shook in barely contained rage, and he let out a snarl, baring his fangs at the two remaining knights.

"Give back my Axia…"

"Oh, he seems nettled," Aburrecia laughed. "I suppose he's taken exception to the condition of his mate."

"If he's so adamant about it, then he can join him!"

Balancing Axia over this shoulder, Voremos brought his sword down in a heavy swing, forcing Drum to parry him midair. The roles were reversed; now Drum was on the back foot with the other knight providing cover fire, his set of scales awash with light as they bombarded Drum anytime he stopped to clash swords. Even still, the red dragon stood firm, panting heavily as he kept his stance.

An uneasy silence befell them as they realized the stalemate they were in.

"Drum!"

Gao's voice cut through the stillness, the human flying on his Buddy Skill as fast as he could, Diaone Shee trailing behind him.

"This is more trouble than it's worth." Voremos said while Aberuccia opened a portal. "Lament your failure for being unable to best me, and your lacking strength for not being able to join with this one!"

He slashed at Drum once again, the red dragon barely managing to block his strike. The adrenaline was wearing off and he could even feel Cait Sith's power begin to fade. He was too drained, and when he was pushed backwards, he found his wings couldn't support him. He reached out towards Axia, as if his desire to have the dragowizard return to him would will them closer.

He felt his consciousness fading, but before he fell into blissful slumber, he saw Axia mouth something. He thought he could hear it, even over the cacophony of battle cries and agony, and felt his eyes stinging with tears when it fully processed, just before he hit the ground to be consumed by darkness.

"I love you, Drum."