' thoughts'

"Air quotes"

Name: talking

Damn: voice change

() author speech

[] reading

** scene/expressions/POV changes

*underground*

*3rd pov*

Their stand zenon and cronan stared at each other while alexia, who was still at zenon side was stunned and awed by cronan's appearance. Zenon was smirking at the prize the cult had been searching for, while cronan's aura and glowing eyes flared with intensity.

Zenon: *smirking* You've finally shown yourself at last mr.cronan. The cult has been getting annoyed with you and your little group's interruptions for the past five years by taking out our smaller bases. While it's impressive you found out the important bases outside the city, but too bad. None of the core cult members were near any of them. But overall, you and your group are nothing but cowards who attack our weakest minions.

Cronan: *neutral tone* Any small victory will count for something. If I recall correctly, weren't there some shipments that were supposed to have come several months ago suddenly started "disappearing". I bet your superiors weren't happy about that.

Zenon was surprised, but frowned in displeasure knowing cronan was responsible for those shipments to the cult disappearing.

Zenon: *frown* So that was you. *smirks again* *points sword at cronan* But no matter, unfortunately for you it isn't and a member of the cult is standing right here. *takes a stance* And as luck would have it, you'll be hunted down by me. The future twelve seat of rounds, zenon griffey.

While zenon was talking, cronan stood there, but unknowingly to zenon or alexia, cronan silently produced a violet sphere that went and floated above everyone.

Zenon: *smirks* I will take your life, cronan, in the honorable service of the knights of rounds!

CLANG!!!

CLASH!!!

Alexia: *shock and awe* 'How is this possible? Not even iris achieved this level.'

While alexia was shocked at belief in what she saw. But zenon was the most shocked, because his attack was blocked by a purple light energy sword cronan created.

Zenon: *shocked* HOW!? HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE!?!? THAT IS A EXTREMELY ADVANCED TECHNIQUE, THAT NO ONE, NOT EVEN PRINCESS IRIS COULD ACHIEVE!!!

The shadow ruler was silent during the whole rant, and pushed zenon back with the force of his energy sword and the resulting shockwave sent zenon flying and fell to the ground.

Cronan: *walks in front of alexia* *serious tone* So now where can I really find this core member of the cult?

Without saying a word, cronan simply produced some black shadow like magic and the shadow like magic started covering cronan's energy sword until it became a dark energy sword with some purple mana highlight.

Alexia: *confused* 'What did he do to his sword?'

Zenon: *angry and confused* 'What the hell are you playing at cronan?'

Cronan: *neutral tone* Then I'll just find another member to spill the information, not too hard to make them "cooperate". So let's get this over with, you pathetic excuse of a knight.

Zenon: *growing anger* What was that.

Cronan: *neutral/mocking/serious tone* *twirls sword a bit* Do you have gunk in your ears? Then let me say it again. You are a pathetic excuse of a knight griffey. Using a maiden's heart just to get close to her and her older sister no less just so you can get their blood, *points shadow-light sword at zenon* disgraceful and dishonorable.

Zenon:*serious* Does it look like I care? I'll do whatever it takes to become part of the knights of rounds. I rather used princess iris than that pathetic fencer ordinar to get what I want.

Alexia grew furious at what zenon said, but then felt a strong pressure coming off from cronan, and she didn't know why, but felt relieved and happy that the cloaked individual grew angry for her sake.

Cronan: *chuckles a bit* You really are pathetic. But it doesn't matter, now come at me you pathetic excuse of a knight.

Zenon: *angry* CRONAN!!!

With that zenon and cronan entered into a fierce sword battle.

*above ground*

Back on the surface, the one armed behemoth is rampaging the city and any guards around the area have been trying to deal with the monster or getting the civilians out of harm's way.

Knight 1, 2, 3: *slashes monster*

Three royal knights ried slashing the monster, but were shocked to see the monster heal instantly from its injuries.

Knight 1: *shocked* What the hell.

Knight 2: *shocked* It could heal itself.

The monster attacks grew more fierce. While that happens, iris is seen running on the roof and after seeing the damage and casualties, she decides to attack the monster.

Iris: *jumps from roof and slashes monster's right shoulder*

Knight 1, 2, 3: *smiles* Princess iris!

Iris: *lands in front of guards* *serious* Have the wounded and civilians evacuated from this district and then we can attack-

Before finishing, iris took notice of the monster and was shocked to see the wound she left on it immediately healed itself.

Knight 2: *shocked* How is that possible? That attack was from princess iris herself.

As the monster moved to attack again, iris took a stance and then used her magic to imbue into her sword and strike the creature, and then cutting off its left arm. Then without letting the creature get a breather, she strikes the creature again and makes it crash to a nearby building in front of her.

Iris: *serious* 'Was that enough for it?'

Iris was then caught off guard and shocked to see when she witnessed the creature getting back up again and its left arm regenerating again.

Iris: *serious* So you can heal from that, then I'll just have to cut you into tiny pieces enough so you can't regenerate.

Iris then activated her magic again and combining with her sword, she went for a strong sword barrage at the creature; unfortunately, the creature keeps regenerating from each attack.

Iris: *serious* Damn it. Won't anything keep this creature down.

Right when the creature was about to attack iris, all of a sudden a serpent-like creature with black armor and gold stripes on its body came and wrapped around the one-arm behemoth, halting its movement. Shocking both iris and the knights.

( imagine some black armor with gold stripes on the serpent).

Iris: *shocked* What is that?

Before questioning more, another person appeared wearing a black suit and gold and had a red bob haircut, and punched the creature's face causing it to roar in pain. This is su jinglei, a member of shadow garden.

( imagine her wearing shadow garden slime suit)

The serpent creature looked at the red-haired individual.

Serpent creature: Good work su.

Su: *small smile* Thank you, envy.

Then all of sudden green lightning appeared and shocked both the one-armed behemoth and the serpent-like creature.

???: *smirk* How do you like my lightning you filthy animal.

Everyone looked to see a well-endowed female with light green hair, wearing a black and gold striped bodysuit that was a bit revealing unlike the red-hair individual and wearing some kind of captain hat that was black in color, and jumped and stood beside her. This was candice catnipp, another member of shadow garden.

Serpent creature: *angry* WHAT THE HELL CANDICE!!! I'M STILL ON THIS CREATURE! YOU KNOW THAT!!!

Candice: *nonchalant* *shrugs shoulder* I don't know what your deal is envy, you can handle some lightning especially from mine.

Envy: *angry* THAT DOESN'T MEAN I CAN'T STILL FEEL PAIN, YOU SPARK-BRAINED IDIOT!!!

???: *neutral* Don't even try envy, candice is just one of the battle hungry maniacs of shadow garden that only lord cronan could rein them in.

Everyone turn to see another person. This person was a tall and slender female wearing a similar outfit like candice and su, but more decent, and in an armor-like look. She also had a cool and neat look on her face that would unnerve many.

Candice: *comically angry* What did you say scheta!?  Say it again, I dare ya!

Scheta: *neutral* Case in point.

While seeing the interaction, iris realized that the woman with a cool face mentioned cronan's name, and knew what that meant.

Iris: *surprised* All of you work for shadow garden.

Scheta: *turns to face iris* *neutral* That is correct, princess iris. My comrades and I have been ordered to help contain the situation and limit the casualties.

Iris heard about shadow garden through the reports given to her and their good deeds on how they have been dealing with bandits and criminal organizations.

Iris: *sighs in relief* Thank goodness. *smiles* I thank you all for coming in our time of need.

Alpha: *from atop a building* It is not necessary to thank us princess iris, we're just doing our job.

Everyone then looks up and sees alpha who was on top of a building, and then jumps down and lands in front of iris.

Scheta: *stoic/serious* Lady alpha, envy has the creature tied up, but we don't know how long she can hold it in place.

Alpha: *serious* Keep it at bay for a bit. Scheta, you along with the others try to wear down the creature a bit. And get the creature to the river, it's enough space for it. *looks at candice* And candice, try to water down your lightning attack a bit, don't try to make too much destruction.

Scheta: *nods* Affirmative lady alpha.

Su: *nods* Roger that.

Candice: *blows a small raspberry* Fine.

Envy: *irritated* WOULD YOU THREE HELP ME OUT ALREADY!!! THIS THING IS NOT MAKING IT EASY, *creature bites envy* OW!? WHY YOU!

The shadow garden members went to work helping their comrade envy getting the creature to downtown center, while wearing it down a bit. While alpha watched the battle, and iris took the chance to walk up to her.

Iris: Who are you? I know you work for shadow garden, but who exactly are you?

Alpha: *neutral* I am alpha, second in command of shadow garden. While my team deals with the creature, I need you and your forces to evacuate the section surrounding the river and the path leading to it.

Iris then was caught a bit off guard, but then glared at alpha in defiance.

Iris: *glared* I know I can take on that monster, let me d-

Alpha: *neutral* A ruler should care more about their subjects than some fight to prove themselves, princess iris.

Iris was shocked from alpha's statement, but mentally slapped and scolded herself for forgetting her most important responsibility. Protecting the people.

Iris: 'What am I doing'. *looks at the three knights* *serious* Do what she says, and double time.

Knight 1,2,3: Yes ma'am!

The three knights went in a blur of speed and went to work.

Iris: *looks at alpha* They will get it done, but I still need to find my sister.

Alpha: *neutral* Do not worry princess iris, lord cronan will find princess alexia, and bring her back safely.

Iris: *breath of relief* What a relief, *smiles in gratitude* Thank you ms. alpha.

With a simple nod from alpha, she left in a blur of speed to help the others deal with the monster, and iris left to help out any civilians that needed any help.

*underground*

We returned to see cronan and zenon in an epic sword clash, while alexia was in awe of cronan's sword skills. Zenon then separates from the sword clash with cronan and catches his breath a bit.

Zenon: *panting* I must say *pant* you are a mutt with some bite cronan *pant*. * smirks* No wonder the cult has been getting worried of you and your group taking out our smaller facilities in each place.

Cronan: *uninterested* Hmm yes, and you seem to handle my strength well, so that means I should get a little serious.

Zenon: *shocked* Y-you weren't even being serious in this battle. *angry* AM I A JOKE TO YOU, YOU BASTARD!!

Without saying another word, cronan starts by putting his sword in a downward position confusing zenon and alexia, then cronan's magic starts to build and act like a wildfire spreading a bit. Since alexia was close to cronan, she felt his wildfire-like magic.

Alexia: *shocked* It feels warm, like a soft blanket.

Alexia felt like these flames would never harm her, instead they would protect her from harm, and this brought a smile to her face.

Cronan: *getting ready* If it's not much trouble princess alexia, stay close to me, because this attack will be quite deadly and I don't think your boyfriend y/n will enjoy seeing more injuries on you.

Alexia got out of her trance, and was confused a bit and wondered at the same time on how cronan knew about y/n, but listened to cronan and stood close to him. When it was enough, cronan was ready to unleash his attack.

Cronan: *raises sword up* Now then zenon griffey, time to show you some of my true strength. *gets into a sword stance*

*whisper* Dark nebula.

All of a sudden, a strong pressure came from cronan who was just in his sword stance without moving an inch, and zenon was being dragged by a strong force towards cronan.

Alexia: *holding on* 'This force is so strong! It's practically sucking up everything!'

Zenon: *trying to break away* *shocked* What the hell is this! I *struggling* I can't get away!

And in an instance, zenon found himself close to cronan.

Cronan: *joking* Really mr.griffey, didn't anyone teach you about a little bit of distance when talking to someone, let me help you.

With a blur of speed faster than an eye could catch, y/n slashed zenon with his shadow-light sword, knocking zenon back and making him tumble on the ground.

Zenon: *in pain* You bastard! What the hell are y-

Before he could finish, zenon felt that familiar force again and dragged him towards cronan again.

Zenon: *frustrated* 'Not again! How the hell is that bastard pulling this off!'

And like a clock, zenon found himself close to cronan.

Cronan: *joking tone* You really can't stop coming close to me, can't you mr.griffey, but what can I say *prepares a sword slash* I am a charming individual.

And like before, zenon got pushed back and skid across the ground by cronan's sword slash, and got a slash mark across his chest with some of his knight uniform slightly destroyed.

Zenon: *groans in pain* You wretched dog! How did you do that? Answer me!

Cronan: Now why would I do that? You clearly are not at my level and your clearly a pathetic bug ready to be squashed.

Zenon: *angry* YOU BASTARD!!!

Zenon then went at full speed and got into another sword clash with cronan, but zenon felt something off about himself.

Zenon: 'What's going on? Why does my magic feel-'

Cronan: You're wondering why your magic feels like it's getting away from you, aren't you.

Cronan's answer was zenon shock face, and then cronan punches zenon's face making him stumble away from cronan a bit.

Zenon: *irritated* *hold his punched cheek a bit* What did you do to me, you bastard?

Cronan: I could explain everything, but I'll give you one hint. Anti-magic.

Zenon and alexia's eyes went wide at knowing what cronan meant.

Zenon: *shocked* THAT'S IMPOSSIBLE!!! NO ONE HAS BEEN ABLE TO USE THAT TYPE OF MAGIC FOR AGES!!!

Alexia: *shocked* 'That smirking bastard is right about that. From what I read, anti-magic hasn't been used since forever, and no one was able to handle it without losing their ability to produce mana. The closest thing related to that magic is the anti-sealing chains. Just who are you cronan?'

Cronan: Come now zenon, if the anti-sealing chains were created through the concept of anti-magic, then it's possible to wield it. You just need dedication for it. But you clearly don't have that, you pathetic knight.

Zenon: *angry* CRONAN!!!

Zenon then rushed at cronan, and the two went into another sword lock, with both neither giving in. While alexia continued to be in awe at cronan.

Zenon: *smirk* You might have your tricks cronan and it seems I underestimated you, but let me show you, behold the power of the future knight of rounds! *unleashes a red and black magical energy*

Cronan: 'This magic isn't normal, and it feels similar to when I fought grease.'

Alexia, who finally got out of the water, witnessed the two swordsmen battling, and felt zenon's unusual magic.

Alexia: *surprised* He has so much magic.

With his power up, zenon pushes cronan a bit to strike at him, but cronan effortlessly blocks zenon's attack.

Zenon: *shocked* 'He blocked that! No matter! With this power I can't lose!'

Zenon then went for multiple strikes, but cronan blocked each attack without beating a sweat, and once again both swordsmen found themselves in a blade lock.

Zenon: *smirks* Lucky shot. Now behold my true power! *unleashes more magic power*

Cronan: ...

Zenon began unleashing more power in hopes of pushing back cronan, but much to the arrogant knight's surprise, cronan didn't move in an inch, like a brick wall.

Zenon: *shocked* 'What the hell!'

With barely any effort, cronan then pushes zenon back, much to zenon's surprise. While caught off guard, zenon received a strong punch from cronan, and landed in the water.

Alexia was at awe seeing cronan taking on the traitorous knight with ease with just his strength, but somehow in someway alexia has this feeling she knows cronan from somewhere.

Alexia: *in awe looking at cronan* He's strong.

Zenon: *angry* Damn it!

Zenon then sees cronan's dark sword pointing at his face, and he didn't know how, but he felt like cronan was bored with him, even when he couldn't see his face, which irritated and angered zenon more.

Cronan: *bored and uninterested tone* Is that all you have to offer, "future knight of rounds".

Zenon: *angry* Damn you!

This made zenon more angry, and went to attack cronan again and the two began to unleash multiple sword barrages that were so strong, that the surrounding underground walls were beginning to crack from the intensity. While the sword fight raged on, alexia observed and watched the battle in awe, but what awed the young princess more was watching cronan fighting with style and grace.

Alexia: *in awe of cronan* 'His form goes beyond excellence and enters the realm of transcendent. His sword-style has no flaw, like nothing can break them with all their might, something I wished for as a little girl. Even though I didn't have an innate talent for the sword like my sister, and could never keep up with her, I thought as long as I kept training my fence style, I could reach where my sister is. But it never happened, that I only could get people to compare me to her, and gain the title of fencer ordinar. But this style, this fencer ordinar style that my sister said she liked, that even my loving boyfriend respects this ordinary style. *realizes* This is what y/n mean, this is my path to strength. I will achieve this ordinary style and make it my own.'

While alexia's dream for her own sword style reignited again, cronan broke free from the sword barrage, and gave a hard upward sword slash on zenon's chest, giving a stronger slash injury on him, and it bleed more badly. Zenon then falls to his knees while he glared in anger at cronan.

Zenon: *anger-filled glare*  Who are you cronan, show me your face, if you have this much power why hide your identity, your nothing but a coward, and where is your real sword. Why use a sword made of nothing but magic.

Cronan: *chuckles a bit* That is not your concern, one reason I don't show my power like some glory-seeking showoff like you is because I care more about the people I save, then some pathetic glory and fame. And the reason for not showing my true sword is one simple reason. *flares his magic energy, and through the mask, his eyes glow with purple energy with some red* You are nowhere near worthy to face my true blade, you pathetic knight.

Zenon: *angry* YOU BASTARD!!!

Alexia: *confused* Shadow garden, and a cult that they are after. Just what is going on.

*ontop the surface*

While things were heating up underground, back on the surface. Scheta, su, candice, and envy who changed into a different creature lead the monster to the river, while iris had ordered the knights to get the people near the river to safety.

*underground*

After settling down his anger, zenon started to chuckle a bit, making cronan be ready for whatever the traitorous knight had in store.

Zenon: *chuckles a bit* Alright. *gets up from water, and reveals a mysterious capsule* Now if you really want to have a fight, I will give you a fight you'll never forget.

Cronan: *curious tone* 'Those red pills.'

Zenon: *smirks* With these pills, a man can unlock a power beyond human limitations, if an ordinary person were to take these pills, they would be overwhelmed by this tremendous power and die, but. *opens the capsule and swallows some of the red pills*

When zenon swallows those red pills, he then drops the capsule in the water, and a burst of energy comes out of him and starts changing him. While zenon was changing, cronan took notice of the capsule zenon dropped and noticed some red pills still in the capsule, and with a command, his slime suit grabbed the capsule and put it in his pocket. Cronan than focus back on zenon, and when the energy surrounding zenon died down, it revealed zenon, whose wounds from cronan have healed instantly, has now transformed into a humanoid monster with his sclera black and his pupils red, and his body mass more bigger with veins bulging out.

Zenon: *smirks* I'm a third awaken. *proceeds to swing his sword a bit, and creates a small shockwave* Those who can control this power are the real chosen ones, the ones worthy to join the knights of rounds. *gets into a stance and sends energy to his sword* * Let me show you, the almighty power!

The now monster humanoid zenon then charges at cronan, resulting in a small dust cloud being formed, but when it dies down, it shows cronan effortlessly blocking zenon's attack with ease. Even with a mask on, cronan's body language could tell he was disappointed by zenon's new form.

Cronan: *disappointed tone* How hideous.

Zenon then proceeds to increase his new powered up energy and tries to push cronan back in their sword lock, but cronan wasn't moving an inch. And alexia was bracing herself as she looked on the battle.

Cronan: *serious tone* There is nothing almighty about this power, it's nothing but a pathetic crutch. *pushes zenon with ease*

Zenon: *shocked* 'How is this possible! I have power from the demon diablos himself!'

While Zenon was still in shock, cronan pushes zenon more, and then breaks out of the sword lock, and proceeds to beat the loser knight a bit, and slash him a bit, and make zenon lose some of his magic a bit, and gave a good punch to his face, and cause zenon to fall to the ground.

Cronan: *turns to alexia* *serious tone*  Princess alexia, I need you to get behind me, and just trust me on this.

Alexia could tell cronan was serious, and listened to his instruction, got closer to him and stood behind him. With that out of the way, cronan turns his attention back to zenon.

Cronan: *looks at zenon* While you have been nothing but a pathetic waste of space, with just a power you didn't train with at all, and just used it as a crush, I'll humor a bit, zenon griffey. *dissipates shadow-light sword* *proceeds to plunge his left hand to his side and open a hole in the air*

Alexia and zenon would've wondered a bit on why cronan dissipated his magic sword, they immediately got shocked on him plunging his hand in thin air, and made it crack and open.

Zenon: *shocked, slightly scared* W-what the hell are you doing?

Alexia: *shocked* What type of magic is this?

Without saying a word, cronan starts pulling out something from the hole he made, which was some kind of handle, and for some reason, an intense pressure was coming out of the cracked hole. And with a final pull, cronan reveals a long sword with a unique design.

Zenon: *legs slightly wobbling* 'What the hell is this? Is this intense pressure and magic coming from that sword? It feels like I'm going to throw up from being near that thing.'

Cronan: I must admit zenon, I'm impressed that you are able to handle the pressure coming from null and staying conscious, but that's only because of your crutch. But *looks slightly at alexia* you truly impressed me princess alexia, your able to slightly handle being near null with your own strength, I'm very impressed.

Alexia didn't know why, but felt very happy being acknowledged by cronan, and was proud of herself, while zenon grew angry again from cronan's disappointment in him.

Cronan: *uses communication magic* *serious* 'Alpha, I need you to use teleportation magic to get everyone who is at my location. Location: sector five, I'm going to finish this.'

Back up top, alpha received the message, and used her teleport magic to get everyone who is at cronan's location away from the area. With that done, and not sensing anyone besides he, alexia, and zenon, cronan knew it was time to close the curtains.

Cronan: *turns to zenon* Now then mr.griffey, I think it's time I taught you a valuable lesson.

Cronan then produces a dome of energy with circuit patterns around him, alexia, and zenon. He then jumps to grab the violet-colored orb that crystallized, and puts it away.

Zenon: *shocked* *looks around magic dome* What is this energy? There is so much of it, a single person could never do this!

Cronan: *serious tone* You thought that obtaining power makes you a chosen one, it is not, it's just magic energy that has not yet truly mastered correctly. For me it was not an easy path to obtain true power, I went beyond the limits of my humanity to obtain the power I possess. Even if it's a power from the deep abyss.  No matter what the consequences will hold, I will go even deeper than no one has ever gone before. *starts to channel magic energy to null*

Alexia felt inspired by cronan's speech about earning strength, while zenon started to tremble a bit from cronan's rising energy.

Zenon: *angry and desperate* DAMN YOU CRONAN!!! *swings his sword*

Zenon then tries to strike at cronan with his sword, but to his shock and horror, his sword breaks upon hitting cronan.

Zenon: *shock and horror* *steps away a bit, and falls to his knees* T-this can't be happening, I'm a third awaken, I was supposed to be part of the knights of rounds.

Cronan: *serious tone* *raises null* This is my strength.

...Abysmal impact. *swings null down*

And with that swing, cronan unleashes a powerful wave of energy that consumed everything in straight of cronan's path, and zenon tries to scream in agony, but nothing came out, and he along with the surrounding area in front of cronan was consumed and vaporized in an instant.

*back on the surface*

The giant wave of energy that reached so high to the stars could be seen by everyone, and they were at shock and awe by the powerful sight they were seeing. The eight shades who gathered together, and the other members of shadow garden are in awe at their lord cronan's attack.

Epsilon: *smirk* Truly, lord cronan is almighty. No one can ever beat him.

Beta: *smiles* Quite true epsilon. Lord cronan truly stands above all.

Delta: *lustful* I can't wait to have my husband's puppies.

Ghislaine: *serious* Better step back delta, I'm cronan's bodyguard, so after alpha, I get to have his kittens before you.

Delta: *growls* What you say!

Epsilon: *scoffs* As if you giant furball, lord cronan will desire me first to bear his childrens.

Gamma: *challenging eye* I feel like I might get to be with lord cronan second after alpha, since I've been making so much profit for shadow garden.

Epsilon: *scoffs* As if the second shade after alpha that gets to bear lord cronan's children, should be someone who trips over themselves every single time.

Gamma: *eye twitching* That may be true, but at least I don't use my slime suit to attract lord cronan.

Ghislaine: *snickers a bit* *smirks* Gamma is right. Shouldn't you use your real charm, and not a fake one, you flatboard elf.

Delta: Hahahaha!!! Nice one big sis ghis!

Epsilon:

What. Did. You. Say you stinkin feline and klutzy bimbo!

Gamma: *angry* Bimbo?!

Ghislaine: *angry* Feline?!

Alpha sighs and chuckles a bit at seeing her sisters/sister-wives arguing and enjoys how they care for one another. While beta, who was beside her, smiled at the sight.

Beta: *smiles* I honestly can't wait for when we can settle down after the cult is defeated.

Alpha: *small smile* Me too. *notices some fires around the kingdom* *uses communication magic* Monet this is alpha, you can now cool down the area.

*3rd pov, in the sky*

Up in the sky, we see the winged black garden member now identified as monet witness cronan's abysmal impact attack practically reaching higher than her.

( imagine her in shadow garden slime suit)

Monet: *in awe* Master cronan is truly incredible.

Monet received alpha's message and began using her snow magic to cool down the fire.

Monet: *while using her magic* I wonder if I could ask lady alpha to get closer to master cronan.

*back to the surface*

Cronan's attack left a giant crater practically for anyone to see, and iris was practically shaking in fear in thought of alexia being in that attack.

Iris: *worried* 'Please. Please don't tell me alexia was-'.

Before finishing her thought, iris noticed a purple light hovering behind her, and in her surprise and tears welling up in her eyes, she turned to see cronan holding alexia bridal-style.

Iris: *worried/relief tears* ALEXIA!!!

Cronan gently put down the unconscious alexia, and iris went to her unconscious sister's side, and checked her pulse.

Iris: *checks pulse is good* *sighs in relief, and tears in her eyes* Oh thank god, she's alive.

Cronan: *caring tone*  She'll be fine, she just went unconscious from being near my attack, a mana overload. She'll wake up soon, but her injuries should be checked over.

Iris then looks at cronan.

Iris: *teary smile* Thank you, thank you for saving alexia, cronan.

Cronan: *smile behind the mask* It was nothing princess iris, I was glad to help.

RAWRRRR!!!!!

Cronan turns to see scheta, su, candice, and envy who untied herself from the monster who is getting close to the river, trying to contain it.  Cronan could tell the rampaging creature was in great pain, and knew he had to finish this.

Cronan: I must deal with that, but before I go, I want to give you something princess iris.

Iris: *wondered* Give me something?

Cronan then pulls out the crystallized orb, and hands it to iris.

Cronan: *neutral tone* This is a magic of mine called crystal record. It contains the memory of what happened underground and who is responsible for alexia's kidnapping. Just apply some magic and it will show, and I know alexia will back up the claims.

Iris: *looking at crystal orb in awe* Incredible.

Cronan then immediately teleports to the creature's location, and iris starts to hear alexia waking up and immediately turns her attention to it.

Alexia: *waking up* Mmm.

Iris: *worried* Alexia!

Alexia: *exhausted* Iris.

Iris: *hugs alexia* I'm so glad your okay! I was so worried for you!

Alexia was surprised by how worried iris was, but returned the hug back.

Alexia: *small tears forming* I'm sorry for worrying you this much, big sister.

RAWRRRR!!!

The two sisters then turned their attention to see the rampaging monster being held back by some of shadow garden members.

*the river*

We see scheta, su, envy, and candice trying to hold off the monster. Envy, who changed out of her serpent form and into her human form which takes the appearance of a pale androgynous teenage young woman with a flat-chest, and lean-muscular build.

( replace the black clothing with the slime suit)

Envy: *formed monster arms* *annoyed* This thing really doesn't know when to stay down!

Envy went in for multiple punches which makes the monster roar in pain, su also joins in with envy on punching the monster, while scheta and candice use their magic.

Candice: *fires multiple green lightning* *angry* Tell me about it. This thing can eat that many attacks! *fires more lightning*

Scheta: *uses thin slime sword* *neutral* Just keep firing.

Alpha then appears along with beta, while the other shades finish rounding up any stragglers.

Alpha: *serious* What's the situation here, scheta?

Scheta: *turns to alpha* Were keeping the monster at bay, but it's proving to be quite difficult.

Alpha began thinking of some ways of trying to defeat the monster, and thought of trying to use an attack on it, but worried the monster could regenerate from it. Beta took notice of cronan who is at the other side of where the monster is, and was looking at it.

Beta: *getting alpha's attention* *smiles* alpha, lord cronan has arrived, he is on the other side.

Alpha looks to where cronan is, and her eyes widen when she takes notice of null unsheathed, and gives her the sign that cronan is going to handle this.

Alpha: *serious*  Everyone, be ready. Lord cronan has brought null out.

This brought the girls attention, and turn to see cronan with null in his hands, and they all know how it'll end.

Envy: *delightful shiver* *grins* This is going to be fun.

Candice: *grins* You said it sister.

Iris and alexia arrive to see what was happening, and witness the shadow garden members holding the monster back, and take notice of cronan being there. Cronan then starts to walk somewhat slowly to the monster, and the monster took notice of cronan holding null with both of his, and putting it in a right side position.

( best way I could describe the sword's position)

Cronan: *sad tone* I'm sorry you've had to deal with this pain, *determine*  but I'll make sure you can find peace once more. *starts to focus magic energy on him and null*

[There should be a GIF or video here. Update the app now to see it.]

While cronan was gathering his magic, everyone was in awe at how much magic he was gathering, and in some weird way, it was giving a soothing feeling. Cronan starts to crouch down a bit to jump, and more energy starts to gather to null, and with enough energy gathered. Through cronan's mask, his eyes glowed a bright violet energy, and jumped high to the air, making everyone, even iris and alexia, at awe at what they were seeing, and then cronan jumps fall towards the monster.

Cronan: Blessed rain.

With that, cronan unleashes a sword slash, that instead of a powerful energy slash, it takes the form of a gentle stream of water that when it strikes the monster, it encapsulates it, and consumes it in a pillar of a purple energy that was reaching. The creature roared in pain, but soon it's body starts to disintegrate and for a few brief seconds, it reveals a girl with long silver hair, and through that light, the girl encounters a deceased grease who gives the girl a gentle smile, and opens his arms, to which the girl immediately jumps into, and cries in happiness while grease took hold of the girl, and gave a soft fatherly smile with tears in his eyes as well. While the two hold each other close, the purple light embraces the pair, and along the light, the creature now turned girl turns to dust, and her ashes flow to the wind. Cronan then took notice of the locket that fell off the creature when his attack hit, and revealed grease and the girl.

( end music)

Cronan: May you find your eternal rest with your daughter, viscount grease.

[There should be a GIF or video here. Update the app now to see it.]

Everyone, including iris and alexia heard the whistle, and felt a peaceful calmness to it.

Alexia: *smiles* This whistle it's so calming, it feels like it's wrapping a blanket around my heart.

Iris: *smiles* I also think the same when I am hearing this whistle as well, alexia.

After finishing the small prayer whistle and putting null away, cronan disappears in violet-colored particles, and alpha knew cronan needed to rest and that it was time to go. So after ordering the others to go, she and beta were about to leave, until iris stopped them.

Iris: Wait a second? *bows a bit to alpha and beta* Please tell cronan that he has mine and the kingdom of midgar's gratitude.

Alpha and beta offer a small smile and nod, and with that they both leave in violet-colored particles. Iris then turns to face alexia.

Iris: *smiles* We should get back soon alexia, y/n must be getting worried sick about us.

Alexia: *smiles and nod* Agreed.

The two sisters then walk back to the academy, while the royal knights handle cleaning up.

*1st pov*

After getting away, I made my way to the academy's room where I had my talk with iris, and it's where I sent my clone in case I couldn't come sooner, and after getting in the room, I got out my cronan persona and took notice of my clone who was finishing up some homework.

Y/n: *smile* Everything went well.

Y/n 2: *smile* Aside from finishing your homework, everything has been fine, boss.

I then dissipated my clone, which turned into energy particles and went into me, and from its memory, nothing went badly, and I then heard the door opening, and it revealed my loving princesses.

*3rd pov*

Y/n immediately went to them, after checking both of them were alright, he brought the both of them to a hug. The two returned the hug, and smiled at being with their loving boyfriend/future husband again.

*the next day*

*daytime at midgar royal academy*

The news about the monster incident has been reported with the battle going on in the city, but there minor casualties thanks to the effort of shadow garden and the royal knights. It was also reported that cronan was the one who made the giant attack that left behind the crater, which left many slacked jaws at how one person could cause that.  It was also thanks to cronan that the crystal orb that he gave to princess iris revealing zenon and some of his knights under him betraying the kingdom and responsible for kidnapping alexia all for a mysterious organization called the cult of diabolos. Iris and her trusted knights continue to investigate the cult and are looking through the recording from the crystal orb. Currently we see the loving couple y/n and alexia sitting together and relaxing after what happened yesterday.

Y/n: *concern* So this cult is after me too, I knew I was somewhat popular, but I didn't think I warrant that much attention.

Alexia: *slightly annoyed* Jeez, I'll never understand how you can joke even under threatening situations. *serious* But iris and I agreed that you'll be moving to campus and living with us in our dorm immediately. It's for your own protection y/n , and I dare you to try to change my mind.

Y/n: *chuckles a bit, and smiles* Easy there my silver princess, how could I deny a request from you or my scarlet princess iris.

Alexia: *kisses y/n's cheek* *smile* Good. I know you would enjoy living in the same building with two loving girlfriends. Now would you my black knight~.

Y/n: *blushing a bit* *turns head slightly* I will not answer that statement.

Alexia: *laughs a bit* *smiles* Now come on you, I'm feeling hungry.

The two then got up and headed for the cafeteria to enjoy a lunch together.

*Mitsugoshi company meeting room*

*eight shade meeting*

In a tall building that is widely known as the mitsugoshi company, on the top level that is a meeting room of sort, we see alpha, beta, epsilon, gamma, delta, and ghislaine in a discussion with what happened last night.

Alpha: We have two discussions to be presented, let's start with the first. Beta.

Beta: Yes, the cult facility where princess alexia was being held was destroyed by lord cronan. Zenon griffey evaporated without a trace, that is my report.

Delta: *laying head happily* *ears wiggling a bit* Our husband is truly the almighty one. No one can ever beat him.

Epsilon: *closed eye smile* It truly was a magnificent light.

Beta: *closed eye smile* The entire capital bathed in our loving husband's magic. It was like looking upon a heavenly paradise. Especially his beautiful whistle.

Epsilon: *hopeful look, but hides it behind a calm face* By any chance beta, do you have a recording of our husband's whistling?

Beta chuckles a bit mentally knowing how one of her sisters in all but blood enjoys when she and y/n play music together, especially on the piano.

Beta: *smiles* I made sure to capture it. *gives epsilon a light blue-colored crystal orb*

Epsilon: *chibi victory dance in her mind* Thank you, beta.

Gamma: *small smile* I hope those pathetic cultists learned their lesson after what they have observed. They should know they are merely prey to be hunted in this world.

Ghislaine: *feet on the table, while polishing her sword* Those little mices are just flesh and bone ready to be broken.

Alpha: *smirk* One day, all of our enemies will vanish in that light, and will be able to enjoy our life together with our husband y/n.

All of the present shades sigh in content knowing they can't wait for that day to happen, especially two certain beastmens wanting to have y/n's kids.

Alpha: Shall we continue.

Beta: *comes back to reality* Ah yes. Zeta has reported in, she found the target, she's going to get closer and investigate.

Alpha: I'll be expecting good news. What of the red pills lord cronan found.

Beta: *looking at reports* From their research reports, we already know the pills act like a power booster, eda and daphne discovered that the pills are related to the demon diabolos itself. They're still doing some research, but it's going smoothly.

Alpha: *nods* Good to hear, keep up the reports. What about the scientists we brought back, anything valuable they had to say.

Beta: The reports from bambietta and neferpitou, aside from princess alexia, the cultists in that base were also doing some research on an artifact that can cancel out magic.

Epsilon: Similar to y/n's?

Beta: No, from what it said the supposed artifact is inferior to what y/n can do, it was already gone before our husband came.  But now we have a pressing issue we have to discuss.

Alpha: *stern* Indeed, which is our first discussion. *pulls out a blood stain card with a skull covered in thorny vines*

The blood stain card read: [We are poison thorn, we work for shadow garden].

Ghislaine: *eyes turning animalistic* I now have the feeling of pruning some pesky weeds.

Epsilon: *neutral disgust* I usually don't agree with ghislaine, but yes. How dare this poison thorn group affiliate with us. Although they are good at covering their tracks rather well.

Gamma: *neutral* That's because normal knights can't handle this so easily, but they won't be able to escape from our all-searching eye.

Alpha: *neutral* Agreed. Now onto our second discu-.

SLAM!!!

Before alpha could finish, the door opened to reveal envy in moderate clothing.

Envy: *smile* Hey, hey guys. I just came to drop in.

Epsilon: *eyes narrowed* What are you doing here, you changeling.

Envy: I thought I could drop by flat board, I was getting bored staying at alexandria, so I thought I could drop in.

While an argument started, mainly an annoyed epsilon trying to strangle an elusive envy while everyone else enjoyed the moment, alpha had thought of an idea, when she took of envy.

Alpha: *looking at envy*  'She will do the job well, and sending in a shade will boost that, and I know who to send.'

*crater site*

We now see a tent setup near the crater caused by cronan, and see iris discussing with her two trusted guards glen and marco.

Iris: *serious* I know from the recording that this cult of diabolos is the true enemy, thanks to shadow garden. So the main issue is on how deep this cult has spread throughout the kingdom.

Glen: *concern* Indeed that is a concern princess, especially learning about zenon and some of the officers betraying us for this cult.

Marco: *small smile* But shadow garden have begun being viewed as heroes from some of the talks I've heard.

Iris knows what her guards meant, and knows that she can't trust anyone since the knight order has been compromised and especially that the cult is after herself, her sister, and her boyfriend. Iris then looked at her two guards, at which glen understood.

Glen: *neutral* I see, then we follow with the plan you made ma'am.

Iris: *determined* I'm putting up an investigation team. So glen, marco I trust you two very well, so I want you to be part of the investigation team.

Glen: *small smile* If that is your command.

Marco: *in awe* I-I would be honored!

Iris: *smiles* I'm glad, while the two of you investigate and find someone to decipher this item that was recovered *places a small brown case in front of glen and marco, and open to reveal a star-shaped object*

I will be a bit occupied with a certain position.

Marco: *confused* A position, ma'am?

*academy*

We see a pink haired girl wearing the academy uniform reading the information about a certain object, while carrying other books, and weirdly being able to keep herself balanced while walking.

Pink-haired girl: *reading* This...was...if-if you wish do to together great.

While the girl was reading, a certain couple were walking together after having a good meal together, and now we're just conversing. Neither one noticing that their about to have a major crash.

CRASH!!

And just like that, the pink-haired girl crashed into y/n and fell to the ground while the books she had stacked fell along as well.

Pink-haired girl: *small pained moan* What was that?

As the girl opened her eyes, she took notice of y/n holding his hand out to help her up.

Y/n: *concern* Sorry, I didn't see you. Are you alright?

The girl started growing a blush on her cheeks, while she grabbed y/n's hand. Alexia took notice of the girl's reaction to her boyfriend, and safe to say she wasn't thrilled about some random girl going after her black knight, but she and her sister had a strange feeling that their boyfriend/future husband would attract many females.

Alexia: *noticing the "pink aura" around the two* *small smile* 'This is going to be interesting'.

A/N: I'm sorry for the long wait, but I wanted to pull no stop on this and make it epic as possible and I hope you ladies and gents enjoy this chapter and have a grand epic day!