(As the Atarian Army approaches Dante, two Sorceress cloaked in white and gold appears in of them leading the march. Once face to face with Dante, another woman walks through the mages and walks up to Dante.)
Dante: If I were you, I'd keep your distance.
(He says as he calls for his sword with his left hand while clutching the Astral Cube in his right. The woman then raises her hand, signaling the army to take aim at Dante.)
Dante: What's this? Does the entirety of Ataria think me a threat? Because of this? (He gestures to the Astral Cube. He then slowly walks towards the woman in the center.) If anything you and your entire continent should be thanking me. I'm the reason it's still in good hands.
Nora: Please listen. We are not here for you.
Dante: You're just after this? Do you think I will just hand it over to you?
Nora: Do you honestly believe that it would in much better care in your hands? The fact that the battle here was fought over an extraordinary artifact is proof that that something as powerful is in the wrong hands. That very relic could virtually rule over the universe in the most capable hands. The safety of it cannot be trusted thus the Astral Cube should be with us. That relic is also a gateway. That with much knowledge and power and if you have the time, then perhaps roam the Astral Realm. So you excuse me if I do not trust a mass murderer like yourself.
Dante: So if I'm the villain your kids read about in their bedtime stories, then I might as well play the role.
(As Dante says this he lifts up the Astral Cube and points it towards Nora and the entirety of her army. However, just before things reach a tipping point, Kate arrives to deescalate the situation.)
Kate: Dante stop!
Nora: Azula? Is that you?
Dante: Who the hell is Azula? Do you know her, mother?
Kate: Halt Dante. She's blood. My cousin.
Dante: Why did she call you Azula?
Nora: Because that's her birth given name. She changed it after she left Ataria.
Kate: Why are you here, Nora? Are you here because of my father and High Priestess?
Nora: No, I am here of my own accord. I could not just sit around doing nothing when everything was at stake here in your home.
Kate: Are you mad!?! Why would you crossover the border to come here? High Priestess won't like this one bit!
Nora: I will deal with her later. Right now, I am only here to make sure the Astral Cube is secured because it isn't safe here. As I said to my nephew, this battle in your Kingdom proves my point.
Kate: If what you say really is true, then we will discuss the matter later. First I must tend my family, friends, and all of my citizens. This was not an easy victory...I'm not even sure if I would even call it that.
Nora: Just hold up, Azula. If there any way we can help with repairing your Kingdom, tell us.
Kate: Very well then. Dante, take Nora and her two proteges to the conference hall. I'll need some designated healers and mages who specialize in Earth magic and gravity magic. Everyone else can dispatch of the debris.
(As Kate says this, Nora turns around to address her army.)
Nora: You all heard her. Do as she stays.
(As the army all salutes, Dante takes Nora and her proteges to the conference hall. A few hours pass as Dante is seen leading against the wall across from the conference hall.)
Kol: How is it that after all those years, you're still as nonchalant as ever?
(Dante turns his head toward Kol.)
Kol: So it takes saving the entire Kingdom if not the world for them to let you out of the tower?
Dante: What is it you want? I'm in no mood for small talk?
Kol: So you mean after all those years you have nothing to say?
Dante: You'll forgive me, but I have more pressing matters to attend to.
Kol: Like what? The battle is over.
Dante: The terms of my freedom are still in the air.
Kol: Why don't you just leave? I mean what's stopping you?
Dante: Because I just fought on behalf of the Kingdom, thus I am to be rewarded in some kind. Not to mention I wish to be here when the fate of the Astral Cube is decided.
Kol: You don't want it to be handed over to Ataria, right?
Dante: Giving them possession of it wouldn't be good for us. They already hold several other relics and artifacts.
Kol: Very odd for Ataria to make such an appearance here. Do you think they've known about what's been taking place?
Dante: I do think it's possible. If Mikael is any example, then I reckon they have mages even more capable and knowledgeable than him.
(As Dante says this, Stephen walks up angry after being knocked out by Dante.)
Stephen: Just what's your problem?!? Why did you attack me?!? We were on the same side!
Dante: You want to know why? Because as strong as you are you're still a liability.
Stephen: A liability?!? Do you hear yourself? I want to take down Mason just as much as you do.
(As Stephen says this, Dante gets into his face.)
Dante: Oh is that right? You want Mason just as bad as I do? Don't be stupid, Stephen.
Kol: Guys this isn't the time for this.
Stephen: Like hell, it isn't.
Dante: Well are you going to do something or are you just gonna pout like a little boy?
Stephen: You had no right doing that. I deserved to be there to stop him.
Dante: Allow me to tell you something, Stephen. You deserve nothing when it comes to Mason. He's my mark, he has always been my target! So do yourself a favor and get that through your head.
(As Dante says this, Stephen gets closer, but Kol pulls him back.)
Kol: That's enough. We're all on the same side here.
Stephen: Are we? Because it seems like Dante is just doing whatever he wants.
Dante: Haha! Is that what you think? Maybe you really are Mason's son.
(As Dante says this, a guard exits from the conference room to inform Dante that the Council and The Queen await his arrival. Once he enters the room, he sees that the Astral Cube has been locked in a magically bonded box.)
Councilman Theodore: It has been brought up to our attention that it was you who fended off Mikael and the former King, Mason, and his accomplice in securing the Astral Cube. Is this true?
Dante: Yes it is. Before I could get my hands on Mason, he teleported away.
Councilwoman Lauren: As for Mikael, just how did you manage to take the Cube away from his clutches? I would imagine it was not easy.
Dante: Does it really matter how I did it? All that should matter is is that I fought today. I fought on behalf of all of you who are too weak to defend themselves.
Councilman Damien: Well if we didn't know any better I say you're making it seem like we owe you something.
Dante: It's because you do. Because of my actions here, I hereby ask that you pardon me from all my past grievances. That seems only fair given what was at stake.
Councilwoman Lauren: And what if we were to refuse?
Dante: Then I'll be taking my leave.
Councilman Theodore: Surely you don't think that you could simply walk out of here?
Dante: And who here would stop me? You four? Don't make me laugh. Either you accept my suggestion or stop wasting my time. You've all of seen the things I've done when it relates to my encounters with The Order of Amatsu, and my victory here today. What I'm asking for is fair.
Nora: What's this? You've encountered The Order?
Dante: I have...What of it?
Nora: Councilmembers if I may interject, if he's fought against them then he will be needed.
Councilman Theodore: Needed how? What role does he play in this?
Nora: His role is to be the one who will finally bring them down. It's just like he said, you've all witnessed his memories. He has survived each and every encounter with them. If I may be ever so bold, may I suggest that you take him up on his request?
(As Nora says this, the councilmembers discuss this over, they then look towards Kate.)
Councilman Theodore: What do you think, Queen Kate? Do you think his request is fair?
Kate: Yes I do. Everything that he and Nora have said, I fully agree with. Dante can be a very valuable asset to us.
Councilman Theodore: Mmm....Very well then. You, Dante Lockheart, is now officially pardoned. However, all bounties that were placed on your head will not be removed.
Dante: That's fine with me. Anyone dumb enough to come across me will find the end of my blade.
Councilwoman Lauren: Don't be stupid. This pardon is a one-time thing. If you decide to regress into your more bloodthirsty behavior we'll have no choice, but to eliminate you permanently.
Dante: Before we end things, I would like to ask if you all have come to an agreement in terms of what to do with the Astral Cube?
Kate: We have not yet settled on anything.
Dante: Then if I may say something, I may have a solution that may satisfy all of us.
Nora: And just what would that be?
Dante: We sent the Cube back into the Astral Realm. If Mikael was strong enough to open a rift to it, then all of your mages' powers together alongside my mother should be more than enough to transport the Astral Cube back to where it originated.
Kate: Mmm...That's not a bad idea. What do you think about that Nora?
Nora: I think it's a solid plan. It works for me.
Councilman Damien: Excellent. Then we will let you get to it. We will be taking our leave.
Kate: Farewell.
(As Kate says this, she teleports them away. After this, she takes the box that holds the Astral Cube as they all proceed to walk outside.)
Kate: Are you all ready?
Nora: Yes. On your go.
(As Nora says this, Kate begins to chant which is then followed up by Nora then her mages. As they all chant in unison, a portal slowly begins to form within the sky.)
Dante: Where is Lunafreya?
Kol: After being healed she headed back to the Labyrinth Kingdom. Ken is out helping the civilians and Willow is back in the Uesugi Sector.
Dante: And what of Azura and the rest of Ragnarock?
Stephen: Azura and Vincent are locked in the tower within mother's magic cube. Rei is in the medical center getting treatment for his eyes. I'm sure he'll join Azura and Vincent in a cell afterward.
Kol: Should we be locking them up? I mean while they did attack us, they are just as much victims as we are today. Just doesn't seem all that fair.
Dante: That's the thing, Kol. Life isn't fair. Take us for example. I was framed and your entire clan along with your father was slain. Nothing about any of that is fair.
Stephen: Do you think doing this will stop people in trying to access the Astral Realm?
Kol: I believe so. It's hard enough to get there and let alone being mentally capable of withstanding its preternatural nature.
Dante: This will work.
Stephen: And why are you so confident of this?
Dante: Because if I know Mikael, he's probably paying attention to what's happening here currently. Once they send the Cube back to the Astral Plane, Mikael will see it.
Kol: So just what are we gonna do about Mikael and Mason? Surely we won't be sitting on our hands?
Dante: "We" won't be doing anything together. As far as I'm concerned this will be the last time I see either of you. My life as it now has no place for any of you.
Stephen: You're crazy if you think our paths aren't intertwined. There's is no way I'm letting Mason and Mori get away with what they did!
Dante: So you're gonna hunt down Mason? Your father? Say you do get lucky and catch him? What are you going to do? We both know that he's strong enough to get out of any cage they could throw him and Mori in. Unless that is you're willing to kill them? I sincerely doubt that you are. Just leave them to me.
Stephen: No...Never.
(As Stephen says this, Dante turns around to face him.)
Dante: Now I'm only going to say this once so I hope I didn't hit you too hard in the head because I need you to hear what I'm about to say. Don't get in my way. Just because you're my brother doesn't mean I won't hurt you in. Mason is mine...He's been mine so just forget it. Besides, you're still the Prince of the Kingdom. You have much more concerning matters here for you to be out chasing after some vendetta. Believe me when I say I'm doing you and mother a favor by killing him.
(As Dante says this, Kol starts to look up as the portal to the Astral Realm has been fully open.)
Kate: Alright...We did it.
(As Kate says this, everyone within the entire Kingdom has their eyes fixated on Astral Realm.)
Nora: So that's the Astral Plane? It is magnificent...
Kate: It truly is...But let us not forget why we are doing this.
Nora: Indeed. Do it.
(As Nora says this, Kate throws the cube back through the portal to the Astral Realm. Immediately after, the portal closes.)
Nora: Well this was quite the reunion, Azula.
Kate: Yes it was, Nora. Tell me, how are things over there.
Nora: Come on. You know I do not like to talk about politics. Even when its family matters.
Kate: Very well.
Nora: Your sister yearns to see you again though. So does Mattias.
Kate: I wished to see them as well.
Nora: I'd best be going now. I'm afraid I've stayed long enough to warrant notice back in Ataria. It was really good to see you again. And you have my sincerest apologies about your treacherous husband and the damage he has caused here. I swear if I hear any word of his presence, I'll alert you. You have my word, cousin.
Kate: Thank you, Nora.
(As Kate says this, they share a hug before parting ways as Nora creates a portal directly to The Floating City Of Ataria. After this, Kate walks back to the palace.)
Stephen: I'm going to join my mother. She seems extremely exhausted after everything.
(As Stephen says this, he begins to walk away, but suddenly stops and turns back to Dante.)
Stephen: If you truly intend to leave then at least say goodbye to her.
(As Stephen says this, he catches up to Kate and puts her arm around him.)
Dante: Kol...Before you go I would like to know what you plan to do after this?
Kol: What do you mean?
Dante: I mean, will be going after Rai and Kai?
Kol: If I do, it's none of your business.
(As Kol says this, he leaves and heads to the Uesugi Sector. After this, Dante takes a trip to the tower to see Azura. As stands in front of her cell, she stands up.)
Azura: What's bring you here?
Dante: Well I am now a free man so I can do whatever I want.
Azura: And the first thing you think of is to taunt me?
Dante: No. I'm not here to make fun of you.
Azura: Then why are you here, Crow?
Dante: Because I understand your grief, Azura.
Azura: I don't need your pity. It's just words and air being wasted.
Dante: I figured you'd say that so I thought I'd tell you that once I'll locate Rai and Kai, you're gonna be the first person I tell. In your window seal is a Crow, a messenger. Talk to it as you would a normal person and it'll deliver your message.
Azura: Why are you doing this?
Dante: Because you share that same hatred and rage that I do. That being said there is another person here who maybe be able to get you out and it just so happens that he shares in the same hatred of the people you want dead. Use the Crow to contact him. His name is Kol Uesugi.
Azura: Why should I trust you?
Dante: You don't have to trust me, Azura. If you choose not to use the Crow then it'll sense it and leave. I'm only giving you an option if you wish to leave your current predicament and get your revenge. Whether or not you take it is completely up to you. And with this, I bid you farewell, Azura.
(As Dante says this leaves the tower.)
Dante: Now then. It's about time I leave this place. What do you say, Karasu?
Karasu: (Where do you want to go?)
Dante: You know where.
(As Dante says this, he summons the Yatagarasu as he flies off into the distance. An hour passes as Dante arrives at his hideout in the mountains. Once there he immediately goes downstairs to his Rejuvenating Waters down below.)
Dante: Now then...Time to collect my prize.
(As Dante says this, he dives deep underwater until he reaches the bottom. It is here that he removes the rocks in his path to reveal that Astral Cube was trapped underneath.)
Flashbacks to before Nora and the Atarians arrived....
(Upon sensing the Atarian army approaching, Dante walks over to the shattered replica of the Astral Cube and picks them up.)
Dante: I better reform this cube quickly before I catch their eye. I'll use some of the energy from the Astral Cube to make them believe this is the real one.
(As Dante transfers the energy between the real and the fake Astral Cube, he then teleports the real one away just as the Atarian Army arrives. Meanwhile, this was taking place, far in the distance watching on a hill is Gaya, a cleric of Amatsu, and another man who's wearing a hood covering his face.)
???: Did you see that Gaya?
Gaya: I did. He reconstructed the fake while sending away the real Astral Cube. I told you that he was a clever one.
???: And you said that he was the one who broke from the contaminant spell in Nanbu?
Gaya: Yes that is him indeed. Dante Lockheart. Prince of The Lockheart Kingdom. Also known as The Bloody Crow, my lord.
???: That's right...He's apart of that society of assassins under Lenneth, correct?
Gaya: Yes my lordship.
???: Mmm...And the girl, Eden is her daughter. I find it quite funny how karma works. Your sole purpose is to stop our message and now the two most close to you have been exposed to our word. Do you still feel the Chaos within him?
Gaya: Mmm....It's not as strong as it was. Somehow he's been able to suppress it, but if exposed to it again, the chaos will grow.
???: Excellent. Dante will definitely be needed for what's to come.
Gaya: Are you planning a move against him for the Astral Cube, my lord?
???: No. He can have it for now. We'll need him to gain more knowledge before we can use him for our own needs. Don't worry, I want you to keep an eye on him.
Gaya: And what of the girl he was with? She too was afflicted by Chaos.
???: Keep an eye on her as well. They both will do our bidding in time...Even if they don't realize it yet. Let us go. There are many things we must set in place before then.
Gaya: Yes sir, my lord.
(As Gaya says this, the create a portal as they return to an unknown location.)
Flashback end....