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Chapter Text

All of Amphibia could not breathe as they watched their moon heading towards their home world. They took notice that the moon started changing. From what became craters, turned into red glowing eyes. The eyes looked just like the Core's

Darrel starts to pick up a strange, but familiar vibe. He decided to tap into the Core's eyes again. He concentrates and picks up their location on the moon. But as he looked into their eyes, his staff's gemstone started cracking.

Tint takes notice and snaps Darrel out of it. "Darrel!" cried Tint. He shook his cape and Darrel's eyes returned to normal. "It's the Core!" he cried. "And your staff," said Tint. Darrel looks down to his staff and sees the cracked gemstone. Cronaxx was worried, "That is not good." Tint and Darrel turn to him and ask, "What do you mean?"

"That fight with Andrias must've somehow caused the magic to start leaking from the crystal. Any more spells you use can cause more friction to the containment of the staff. And if it becomes too much, the crystal will break, and all the magic will be released. That will mean…"

"If the crystal breaks," said Darrel. "I can't perform magic anymore." "He's right," said Tint. "Uh, Darrel?" Sasha asked. "I think we're about to have much bigger problems than your staff." She points back to the moon getting the wizards' attention.

"Oh crud," said Anne. The group rejoins with the citizens of Amphibia, not taking their eyes off the moon. "The Core," said Darrel. The group turns to Darrel, who turns to Andrias. "Andrias, what's going on?"

Andrias chuckled, "It seems the Core has activated its final gambit." "It's WHAT!?" Hop pop asked. Andrias continued his explanation, "When our civilization was at its final peak, the moon became home to some of the Core's pet projects. Among them, a plan to eradicate all life as we know it. By ramming the moon into Amphibia's surface." The crowd gasped in shock.

"Excuse me?!" Anne exclaimed. "Why?!" "Fear," replied Marcy and Darrel. "I've been in that thing's head," said Marcy. "We'd know that more than anything," said Darrel. "It's afraid of being destroyed," said Marcy. "Of being irrelevant. It will do whatever it takes to defeat us and claim the stones as its own. If that means destroying an entire civilization, then so be it."

"So the Core found a way to stick it to us," said Darrel. "Even in defeat." Sasha comes up and complains, "So what he's saying is that this thing's a GIANT SORE LOSER!" "Hmm, more or less," replied Andrias. "We have to do something," said Sprig. "Anyone have any ideas on how to stop an entire moon?!"

"Darrel," said Anne. "Can't you use your magic to stop it?" Darrel shook his head no, "I can't perform magic that powerful anymore." He shows the Eternal Staff to the group, showing the cracks on the crystal.

"After Andrias delivered that powerful blow during the fight, he destroyed the containment enchantment, keeping the magic under control. If I perform another strong spell such as pushing the moon back to orbit, the gemstone will crack and all the magic will be released."

"And that means…" said Marcy. "The magic given to me will be released as well," said Darrel. "Kiss my magic abilities goodbye." The group sulks knowing Darrel's gift is now on thin ice. What else can they do? They've got little magic, and a giant moon is about to crash, attempting to destroy all life as they know it.

Then, the ground began to shake beneath their feet. "And Earthquakes!?" Polly gasped. "Don't we have enough going on!?" But it wasn't an earthquake, it was Mother Olm digging out from the ground. "Mother Olm?" Darrel, Sasha, and Anne asked. "Who is this now?" Marcy asked. "Oh that's right, you weren't with us," said Darrel.

"So, how did it go?" asked Mother Olm. "Well we stopped the invasion," replied Sprig. "But now," said Tint. "The moon is about to kill us all." Mother Olm turns to the moon, "I see. Then the prophecy has finally come to pass."

Marcy gasped in excitement, "Sasha mentioned this! What did it say, what did it say?" Darrel placed his hand on her shoulder, getting her attention. "Allow me to explain. The prophecy says: 'Four Stars burning bright. Come from beyond to expel the Night. Should they fight or embrace The Fall? Their choice shall determine the Fate of All."

Marcy, including the crowd, were amazed at how he presented the prophecy. "It means," said Anne. "That the four of us will save the world. So let's go save the world!" The four friends cheered in agreement, until Mother Olm spoke up.

"Well, just a minute. The prophecy doesn't necessarily say you'll succeed." "Wha?" The humans asked. Mother Olm continues her explanation. "You see, the prophecy isn't so much a prediction, as it is a humble request for help. And know this: You have to tap into the energy that remains in the stones, in order to get the energy you need. However, if you do that…"

"There might not be enough energy left for us to get home," said Anne. "This is a tough decision," said Darrel. "We could be stuck in Amphibia forever," said Sasha. "Yeah," said Mother Olm. "So now that all the cards are on the table, what will you do? The choice is yours."

Looking back at each other, and to their friends they have made on their grand adventure. The four friends thought for a while. Looking down at his staff, Darrel recalls Cronaxx's final lesson. ' With the world at stake the only thing of importance is that you complete your mission. No matter what you have to sacrifice… or who. ' He looked back to his friends and smiled.

The others smiled too, "You call that a choice?" Sasha asked. "Of course we'll help!" cheered Marcy. "There's no way we'd leave you hanging in your hour of need," said Anne. "Let's do this!" cheered Darrel. The rest of Amphibia congratulated them on their bravery and Toadstool was gripping Toadie too tightly. "Whew, I wasn't worried. Was you worried, Toadie? Cause I sure wasn't."

"Follow me," said Darrel. "Let's get powered up. To the music box!" The group starts to return to the castle, but Mother Olm stops Anne for a moment. "Anne, one more thing," she said. "The stones are strong, but they may not be enough to defeat the Core. If things look bad out there, don't forget about the Secret Spell."

"Wait, the secret, what now?" Anne asked. "Didn't I tell you about that?" Mother Olm asked. "No you didn't," replied Cronaxx. "Listen, Anne. I wasn't going to tell Darrel about this because I know what he would do if he got the chance." Anne listened to Cronaxx very carefully.

"When I was researching about the stones, I came across a rumor that they hold a hidden power. A power that is strong enough to defeat any foe." "But I warned Cronaxx," said Mother Olm. "That summoning such power, comes with a price: The life of the user."

Anne came to a realization, "So whoever uses the spell…" "Yes," said Cronaxx. "… to use all the power of the stones, they will die. That's why I'm asking you, don't let Darrel use that spell. He's all Tint has left." "But hopefully, it will never come to that," said Mother Olm. "Am I right? Okay, good luck up there."

"Wait," Anne stopped Mother Olm from leaving. "The spell, how do I use it?" Cronaxx smiles sadly, knowing that she's fulfilling his request. "My child," said Mother Olm. "You have only but to ask." "Come on," said Cronaxx. "We've got to catch up to them. But don't tell Darrel about the spell."

In the castle, Anne caught up with the others. "Hey," she said. "Sorry for the hold up guys." "Anne," said Darrel. "Look who's here." She gasped at the amphibian he pointed to. It was none other than Valeriana. "She was waiting for us when we got here," said Marcy. "Talk about perfect timing," said Tint. "Pretty creepy if you ask me," said Sasha. Then, Valeriana's bird perches on top of her head.

"Hello Anne," said Valeriana. "Are you ready for your final battle?" "Oh heck yeah," replied Anne. "Good," said Valeriana. "Now, the four of you gather around the box, and close your eyes." The four humans do so and concentrate on unlocking their calamity powers.

"Focus. Think of your memories of Amphibia, of how much this world means to you. This will allow the stones to resonate with your hearts once again!" Valeriana takes her staff and channels the power to reconnect with the stones to all four humans. The stones reconnect with Sasha, Marcy, and give what's left to Darrel and Anne in their specific stones.

The four humans glowed the same aura as the color of their stones. And the stones themselves were lifted from the box and connected with their hosts. Bright lights of blue, purple, green, and red filled the room and burst through the castle windows.

"Warriors of Amphibia, arise!" Valeriana declared. The lights die down revealing the four humans in their warrior outfits. Anne glowed blue wearing gold gauntlets, chest plate, boots, and a blue cape. With blue gemstones decorated with them. Marcy glowed green, wearing a golden chest plate with a light green cape, gold boots and fingerless gloves. With peridot gemstones decorated on her. Sasha was glowing a pinkish purple. Her armor was covered with spikes and her ponytail was as long as a blaze of fire. Darrel was glowing bright red. His armor was a red wizard's cloak with a gold chest plate and shoulder pads, decorated with glowing red eyes. His hat consists of any ordinary wizard hat, decorated with stars and a crescent moon. His footwear consists of baggy shoes, but tight enough to stay secure. The Eternal Staff's stick changes to a golden metal rod with a few spikes and a crescent moon on the end where the crystal resides. The crystal floats with only a few cracks disappearing.

"This is awesome," said Darrel. "Swanky duds," said Anne. Sasha tries out her calamity powers and shoots a blast of energy from her fists through the roof. Destroying Andrias' cannon in the process. "Anne, Darrel, you could do that this whole time?" She asked. "It's a recent development," said Darrel. "These powers are way more intense than before," replied Anne. "Maybe that's because we have the other half of their powers," said Darrel.

"The powers must stack when used in tandem! Classic synergy buff," said Marcy. "Okay then," said Anne. "Let's go punch that moon in its big ugly face!" The humans gather together and with their powers they take off to the skies, into outer space.

Tint, Cronaxx, and the Plantars cheered for their friends. "Yes, YES!" cried Sprig. "Get it, girl!" "I know them!" shouted Polly. "They lived in my basement," said Hop pop. "Go for it, Darrel," said Tint. "We're right behind you." Cronaxx looked to his nephew and looked up with worry. 'Be careful,' he thought.

The four calamity warriors arrive at the moon and the Core spots them. "Incoming targets," they said. "Deploy defenses." The core activates a small compartment and unleashes all its pet projects that Andrias explained earlier. "That's no moon," said Darrel. "It's more of a space station."

The pet projects consist of robotic insects and sea creatures most people would find in swamps or in the deep dark trenches of the abyss. But that wouldn't stop the four from standing face to face with them. "Game on you stinky space bugs," said Anne.

She conjures up her powers to make a powerful plasma tennis racket. "Here's a serve!" Then hits a plasma tennis ball, which turns into a cat, and then multiplies into multiple cats. All of those plasma blasts hit multiple robots, causing them to explode and make the word 'Ace' appear.

Now it was Darrel's turn, he took his staff and swung it to create multiple copies of himself. All those Darrels then shot fireballs shaped into dragonflies and they made more of the robots explode. "You shall not PASS!" he shouted. He creates a shockwave to push some of the robots towards Sasha.

Sasha conjured up a pair of pom poms, then flew with wings on her back. Punching and kicking whatever came her way. When she comes across a giant robot, she wastes no breath and creates one huge ball of plasmic energy. The robot tries to fight back, but it isn't enough, and the robot explodes. Creating a pink cloud in the shape of a heron.

Marcy watched from afar, with tears of joy. "This is the coolest, most anime thing that's ever happened to me," she said. "I am so happy to be able to fight by your side." Marcy conjures up a twenty sided die and rolls it at the robots. Making every one of them explode as they come in contact.

One of the robots catches the die, but Marcy grins. "Nat 20, baby!" The die then explodes making a smoke of green appear like a barrage of weapons. The four warriors come together in a group hug, happy to be fighting on the same side for a change and continue to fight off the robots.

Back on the surface, Andrias watches them fight from below. Then, he hears a familiar voice. "Andrias." He looks up to his crown, knowing who it was. "Father?" "Help us," said Aldrich. "Save us, and you can finally join us! Forever!"

As Andrias starts to move, Tint and Grime stop him. "What are you doing?" Grime asked. "This is your second chance," said Tint. "Do the right thing." Andrias closed his eyes for a moment. His mind flashed an image of Cronaxx, Leif, and Barrel, his greatest friends and then said, "Frobots, engage." The last of the Frobots activate their rocket launchers and they make their way up to the moon.

"Enough of the small fry," said Anne. "Time to take care of that moon." The four warriors fly in front of the moon and give it all they got to push it back into orbit. As they do, Marcy spots Andrias' robots heading straight for them. She tries to stop them, but trips in mid-flight.

But much to their surprise, the robots help them push the moon away from Amphibia. "No way," said Sasha. "They're helping us," said Anne. "Andrias," said Darrel. "Thank you." As they continue to push the moon, Grime stands in shock. "I don't believe this," "I do," said Tint. "He's finally doing something useful. In honor of his friends, his true family."

Andrias smiles at the salamander until Aldrich speaks up. "You Fool!" Andrias takes his crown and looks down on it. "You could've been immortal! What are you doing!?" Andrias grips on his crown and starts crushing the only relic he has communicating with his father. "Something I should've done a long time ago, murderer. Standing up to YOU!" His grip crushes the crown causing it to break into little pieces. "Full Throttle Engaged!"

The robots proceed to give it all they've got, helping the humans fight back against the Core. "No way that's getting through," said Darrel. But it wasn't enough. The Core goes full throttle on its own and proceeds to push them back down to Amphibia. "FOOLS!" The Core shouted. "You cannot stop A GOD!" "You're no god," said Darrel. "You're an abomination!"

The team struggles to push back as the Core starts to reach the atmosphere. "Even with the robot army it's not enough," said Marcy. Then, Anne and Darrel take notice that Sasha and Marcy's powers are starting to drain. "Guys," said Sasha. "Hate to bring this up, but I think I'm fading fast." "Me too," said Marcy. "Our bodies are not as used to this as yours."

Darrel continues to fight back, even though his powers are draining. "I can't let this happen!" He takes his staff and tries to give Sasha and Marcy more strength. But the cracks on the crystal, continue to grow. "Please, no," said Darrel. "Not now!"

Anne looked at her friends, and she was worried something like this would happen. She couldn't let them fail, so she had one more idea. Knowing it could be her last. "Guys, I know what we have to do," she said. "I'm going to call the power of all four stones. I may die in the process, but at least you and everyone else would be safe.

Darrel, Sasha, and Marcy were shocked to hear they might lose their friend. "What?! Are you crazy?!" "There's no way we're letting you do that!" "You can't do that! You just can't!" Then, out of nowhere, the robots start exploding from giving it all they've got. Time was running short. And a whole world was on the line.

"Our whole lives, I've followed you," said Anne. "Counted on you, trusted you. Now it's your turn to follow my lead. Please let me do this." The three friends started tearing up, and Sasha and Marcy reluctantly gave her their stones. Darrel however, stood his ground. "Darrel, give me your stone."

"I can't believe you'd do this to me," he said. "I won't give you my stone!" "Darrel," said Anne. "We don't have a choice." "There's always a choice!" cried Darrel. "I'll take your place, I can save the world! I can -I can…" Darrel started breaking down in tears. He couldn't let his girlfriend give her life to save others.

"Darrel," said Anne. "Cronaxx told me not to tell you about this because he knew this would happen." Darrel perked up hearing Cronaxx kept this from him. "He wants you to make sure Tint's okay. You're all he has left to count on." "NO!" Darrel cried. "I can't lose you again!" Darrel started breathing heavily, "I made you a promise. And you're breaking it."

Anne takes her hand and places it on Darrel's cheek. "No I'm not," she said. "We promised that we were going to find each other and get back home, whatever it takes. And if this is what it will take to get you home, then so be it." Darrel grabs Anne's hand as tears start flowing down his face. "I can't live without you," he said. "I know, Darrel Barrel," said Anne. "But sometimes there are more important things than what we want in life."

Darrel looks into Anne's eyes as he takes the stone out of his chest. The two give one last kiss, just as Darrel reluctantly gives Anne his stone. The two break the kiss and regroup with Sasha and Marcy. "I'm not sure how this'll go," said Anne. "So, you better get out of here." The three friends give her one last hug just as the robots start exploding at a fast rate.

Anne uses her powers to get her friends back to Amphibia safely. "You better come back alive Boonchuy," said Sasha. "I swear to frog, you better!" "I love you! So MUCH!" Darrel cried. "I love you too, Darrel," said Anne. "More than anything." Anne shoots them back to the surface and stands against the Core alone.

Down on the surface, the three humans stood tired and sad. Tint, and the Plantars raced to their side. "Hey," said Polly. "Aren't you supposed to be saving the world?" "Anne sent us back," said Marcy. "She's going to try to stop it herself, but…" "She said she may not make it," finished Sasha. Darrel dropped to his knees crying.

The Plantars and Tint were shocked. "No no no no no," said Sprig. "We can't let her!" He goes to Frobo and says, "Frobo! Take me to Anne! Now!" Hop pop and Polly tried to stop him, but Frobo launched into the sky.

Anne shows the stones to the Core. "Whelp," the Core mocked. "You dare use Amphibia's greatest treasure against us?!" "These stones are not Amphibia's greatest treasure," said Anne. She then recalls all the life she encountered in Amphibia, reminding herself that they are the greatest treasure, not the stones.

She calls upon the stones, "Mother Olm said that all I had to do was ask. So, I'm asking. Can you help me save the world I love?" The power of the stones give it all they've got. And in the process of giving Anne the power, the stones break apart. The next thing everyone knew, was that Anne's body turned white. As bright as a shining star in the sky.

"Anne!" Sprig called. Anne turns to see Sprig trying to reach her with Frobo. "Please don't do this!" Sprig begged. "Don't go! I don't know what I'd do without you! You're my everything! You've changed my life."

Anne takes his hand and says back, "And you've changed mine." Sprig cries in her hands and eventually lets go. He takes off with Frobo and flies at a safe distance. "Goodbye Sprig," said Anne.

She turns back to the Core and she gives off a bright beam of light in the center of the Core's eye. The beam shoots right through the moon, disintegrating it from behind. Darrel could only watch from below. He was so sad, he tried to do something. "NO!" he cried. "I WON'T LOSE YOU!"

He takes his staff and shoots a magical beam to try and give her enough power to stay alive. But as the beam went higher and higher, the crystal on the Eternal Staff continued to crack. He didn't care if he could use his abilities anymore. All he cared about was saving his best friend.

As the Core continued to engulf in the bright light. The helmet suddenly began to crack, destroying all the preserved souls that remained within. Including King Aldrich. At the same time, with the helmet destroyed, the crystal of the Eternal Staff broke apart in pieces. The sudden destruction of the staff blew Darrel back a few meters away, and the magic began to fade into the sky.

The next thing all of Amphibia knew was that the moon was left with nothing but a pile of rocks in the sky. All of Amphibia cheered. The Core was no more. But not all was won, for Anne's fragile pale body was floating in the cold abyss of space. Thankfully Sprig and Frobo were there to get her back on the ground.

Darrel raced to her side just as Frobo set her down in the water. "Come on, Anne," said Sprig. "It'll be okay." "Come one Darrel," said Tint. "You gotta heal her!" "I'm trying!" Darrel cried. He takes what's left of his staff and tries to magically heal her. But nothing happened. Darrel was without magical abilities. He couldn't save her.

He drops his staff and cries on his knees. "Anne, I can't do it. I can't heal you." Darrel, Tint, Cronaxx, the Plantars, all of Amphibia, even Grime, all cried for their fallen star hero. "Don't cry, you guys," said Anne in a weak tone. "It's okay. Saving this world is the best decision I've ever made. My only regret is that I never got to see Love Choice Two."

Some of her friends chuckled, only for Anne to disintegrate into nothing but white leaves. Anne closed her eyes and embraced her sacrifice with a smile on her face, until there was nothing left. The mourning friends witness her glorious fall. And a great cry rose up from Darrel's heart.

"AAAAAAAAAANNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEE!"

It was all dark, and all Anne could hear was the sound of her friends calling her name. She opens her eyes and finds herself on a floating island in space. It looked just like the poster in her bedroom. She turns to a house nearby and opens the door. In front of her was an old timey computer that was made in the eighties. Surrounding the walls were pictures of all her friends, family, and loved ones.

She sits down by the computer and a chat invite appears from a 4_Stones_Deity. She accepts the invite and they start chatting. " Hello Anne 0.o " "Uh, hello," said Anne before she started typing. " Hi. Who are you? What is going on? " The username replied, " I am the cosmic guardian who has watched over countless worlds for countless eons… :) "

"Uh, okay," said Anne. " What's up with this old timey computer? " 4_Stones_Deity replied, " Old? Are you human teens using something else these days? " " You're off by a couple of decades, " replied Anne.

" Well perhaps we should try a different form, " The Deity makes the old computer glow a bright light, and changes into the form of Anne's cat, Domino. "How's this?" asked the guardian. "Better?"

"So much better," replied Anne. She takes the guardian in her arms and hugs her. But the guardian stops her. "None of that," they said. "Sorry," said Anne. "I figured your response would be something like this," said the guardian. "I am very cute."

"So what's going on?" Anne asked. "Am I dead or something?" "Yes and no," replied the guardian. "I made a copy of you right before you expired. A backup if you will. For all intents and purposes, you're the same Anne Boonchuy."

Anne stares down at the guardian feeling shocked and dumbstruck. "Well that's gonna cause some serious existential dread later on," she said. "So does that make you.." "Just a watcher," replied the guardian. "A viewer, I'm not in the demographic though."

"And you look like my cat because..?" Anne asked. "My true form would make your human brain explode," replied the guardian. "I don't know," said Anne. "I've seen some pretty crazy-" To prove a point the guardian revealed its true form causing Anne to scream.

The next moment, the guardian switched back into Domino. "Now to business," they said. "Anne Boonchuy, I brought you to this place because I want to offer you a job." Anne was surprised. "Wha?" "To keep a near infinite story short, I have been doing this job for a very long time. It's exhausting. So, I was hoping you would consider being my replacement."

"Me?" asked Anne. "Yes you," replied the guardian on top of Anne's head. "Look, I created the stones to see how mortals would handle unlimited power. Turns out… not that well! Would you believe that after over 10,000 years, you're the only individual who used that power for good?"

"Uh, this is a lot to take in right now," said Anne. "I mean, do I have a choice?" "Well of course you do," replied the guardian. "I'm not a jerk." Anne smiles, "Well then, I'm going to have to pass."

The guardian was most upset hearing the news of her rejection. "Wha?! No! I haven't even told you about Bagel Fridays!" "Sorry dude," said Anne. "You seem cool, but I'm just a 13-year-old kid. For every "heroic sacrifice", I make a hundred dumb mistakes. I'd probably blow up the multiverse if you put me in charge."

"No," said the guardian. "Don't do this to me, kid. You're the only one who qualifies! You're perfect!" "No one's perfect," said Anne. "My time in Amphibia has taught me we're all changing, and learning and improving as we go. Every time I hit an obstacle, I found a way to overcome it. When I thought Sash and Marcy would be stuck in their old ways, they proved me wrong and our friendship got stronger."

"And the time I spent with Darrel, made me realize we have much more in common than we realized. I mean if it wasn't for me I would never get to see him become the man he could possibly be. And Wartwood, the oldest-fashioned, least accepting place ended up accepting me as one of their very own."

"So you're saying you could continue improving?" The guardian asked. "Maybe even one day feel worthy of this post?" "It's possible," replied Anne. "I have my whole life ahead of me to make bad choices and learn good lessons from them." However, after remembering what she did, she wondered, "Or I had my whole life ahead of me."

"About that…" said the guardian. The room opens up to a portal of light and Anne starts falling slowly. "Whoa, Whoa, what's happening?" Anne asked. "Am I actually dying this time?" "I am sending you back to the world of the living," replied the guardian. "You've shown me the error of my thinking. And if you can do that by age thirteen, then imagine the guardian you'll be after life fully lived."

The guardian reveals itself as a big cat with wings, with two of the stones as eyes and two more on its forehead. "And as for this Darrel character," said the guardian. "If you chose to spend the rest of your life with him, I'll preserve a place for him by your side." Anne smiled, "Thanks."

Then the guardian drops Anne into the bright light and says, "Go, live your life. I've waited thousands of years to retire. What's seventy eight years more?" "Wait," said Anne. "Are you saying that in seventy eight years, I'm gonna-" Before Anne could talk anymore, a bright light filled her vision.

As she woke up, she found herself back in the water grounds of Newtopia. She finds everyone crying at the spot where she disintegrated, mostly her friends. Darrel weeps in silence, as Tint hugged him tightly. Sprig tightened his grip on the white leaves. "I'm so sorry Darrel," said Marcy. "We know how much she meant to you," said Sasha.

"I had a great dream once," said Darrel. "It was in a distant future. We were all together, living in balance. And there were fireworks, the lights across the village. Me and Anne dancing. She had ribbons in her hair." Darrel started tearing up again. "If ever I was to marry someone, it would've been her. It would've been her."

As he started crying, a throat clearing was heard. And a familiar voice, no one thought they would hear again. "What's everyone looking at?" Hop pop failed to see at the moment. "Not now Anne," he said. "We're mourning the loss of a true hero. And the greatest kid who ever-"

Darrel and Sprig perked up, and saw her smiling face again. Everyone else soon followed. "Anne?" Sprig and Darrel rushed up and hugged her. "Hey dudes!" Darrel gripped her tightly. "Don't ever do that to me again!" he said. "I won't, I promise," said Anne. The two kissed passionately until everyone else came in and hugged their almost fallen friend.

"What'd I miss?" Anne asked. "Not much," said Darrel. "But the moon and the Core exploded, and then so did you," said Sasha. "But your back somehow," said Marcy. "Which is amazing. But also, how?"

"I don't know where to begin," said Anne. "The whole thing feels like a dream." Sprig then notices that something is glowing in Anne's pocket. "Question: Why is your pocket glowing?" Anne digs in and reaches out of her pocket.

"What are those?" Sasha asked. "They look like shards of the four stones," said Darrel. Anne opens her hand to reveal the stone shards and a note that says 'TTYL 0.o.' "I think they're a chance for a fresh start," said Anne.

The group laugh at their friend's return, all while Andrias looks up to where the moon once stood. He smiled in relief, knowing that the burden his father made him carry was gone. All the pain he gripped tightly was let go. And the evil that he held for so long, was no more. All he could think about were his oldest friends. That they can finally rest in peace, knowing that their friend was once again happy. "It's over," he said as he envisioned his friends one last time. "It's finally over."

But the journey wasn't over yet. After a few hours of celebrating Anne's return, the humans got together with the four stone shards. "So what's our next move?" Darrel asked. "Based on what Anne told us," said Marcy. "I think these shards are low output versions of the stones." "So we can use them to get back home?" Sasha asked. "In theory," replied Marcy. "But it sounds like a one way trip," said Darrel. "These are just crumbs of energy," said Marcy.

"So if we use these to return home," said Anne. "There's no coming back." "Not only that," said Marcy. "Who knows how long they'll hold for. Could be hours, could be minutes." The four humans looked down on what may be their one way ticket home.

Hop pop and the rest of the amphibians looked with gloom. As much as they would like them to visit from time to time, they all have to go back to their lives. Even if it means never seeing their friends again. "Well we better say our goodbyes," he said.

"Are you sure, Hop pop?" Darrel asked. "Of course," he replied. "You kids need to go back to your own lives and I think we've kept you long enough." The four humans look to each other and nod in agreement. Moments later, all the amphibians and the humans got on top of a cliff overlooking the ruins of Newtopia. So they could say their final goodbyes to their friends.

General Yunan placed a wreath of green flowers on Marcy's head, and Marcy smiled at her and Olivia. "I came to this world thinking only of myself," said Marcy. "It was wrong of me. And I wish I'd gotten to know you both better." "I think we all have a lot to learn, Master Marcy," said Olivia. "Don't be so hard on yourself."

"In a way you helped us see what was important as well," said Yunan. The next thing Marcy saw was that Olivia and Yunan were holding hands. Then she looks up to a distraught former King Andrias. He felt he didn't need to be told goodbye after all the pain he caused her. But he was surprised when Marcy said, "Goodbye Andrias." Andrias sighed in relief, "Take care, kiddo."

The next to be told goodbye was Sasha and Grime. He struggled to put on the wreath of pink flowers on her head, considering that he lost his arm on the field of battle. The two saluted their farewells, "Commander," "Lieutenant, it was an honor serving with you."

Grime offered Sasha a handshake, but Sasha couldn't hold back her tears any more. She cried her heart out and so did Grime. "I'm gonna miss you so much!" Sasha cried. "Not as much as I'm going to miss you," cried Grime. "You find Percy and Braddock," said Sasha. "You tell them, I'll miss them forever." "I will," replied Grime. "As soon as I find the pieces of my heart and put them back together.

Now it was Darrel's turn to say goodbye. His wreath of red flowers floated on top of his head thanks to Tint. "It's a shame you're not going to do this stuff again," he said. "That's okay," said Darrel. "I've lived without magic for thirteen years. What's the harm for a few more?" "It's amazing," said Tint. "To think our friendship started after I saved you from eating a poisoned fruit."

"Magic or no magic," said Cronaxx. "You are one of the best wizards I have ever trained." Darrel sniffled wanting to speak from the heart. "Thank you so much Grandpa. I'd hug you, but you'd just phase through." "I'll take that hug," said Tint. As the two hugged, a familiar compass fell out of Darrel's pocket.

Tint picked it up for him. "Here's your father's compass." Darrel pushes it back to Tint. "Keep it," he said. "I was lost, but not any more. Besides, you're part of our family, and that compass will help you remember that." Happy with the gesture, Tint takes off his neckerchief and gives it to Darrel. "So you'll have something to remember me by."

Darrel looks up to Clipper and Costa and smiles. "You two were the best flying friends I ever had. Now you can live your lives to the fullest." Clipper and Costa nuzzle their heads on Darrel's hands and get in the group hug with Tint and Cronaxx.

And finally, Anne, with a wreath of blue flowers on her head, was ready to say goodbye to the Plantars. She started with Polly, the little tadpole. "Goodbye Polly," she said. "You're the little sister I never knew I needed. I know you're going to grow into an amazing frog and take over the world." Polly sniffled, "Without you as my moral compass, I definitely will."

The two hug it out, then Anne turns to Hop pop. "Goodbye, HP. Thanks for taking me in. I'm so lucky to call myself a Plantar." "I'm the lucky one, Anne," said Hop pop. "And I'm so blessed to have a granddaughter like you. If you ever need a home cooked meal, or your old room back, just stop by." "Like an old wise frog once told me," said Anne. "Family always finds each other." The two hug goodbye, leaving one more friend left.

Sprig Plantar, looking down with watery eyes, gripping his hat tightly, wasn't sure he wanted to say goodbye. But he had to, and it's the hardest thing in his life, to let his best friend go. The two hugged tightly, and Sprig broke the silence. "Goodbye Anne, I'll never forget you." "And I won't forget you either Sprig," said Anne. "Which means we will never be apart. Not really. Nothing will ever change how much you mean to me. Not time, or space, or being worlds apart."

"Spranne against the world?" Sprig asked. "Spranne against the world," replied Anne. The two perform their special handshake one last time. She pulls out her phone and gives it to Sprig. "I want you to have this," she said. "Maybe it'll help you on your future adventures."

Anne, Sprig, Hop pop, Polly, Frobo, Bessie, Darrel, Tint, Cronaxx, Clipper, Costa, Sasha, Grime, Marcy, Olivia, and Yunan embrace in a long hug until Valeriana comes up with the calamity box. The humans let go of their amphibian friends and turn around. "We're ready," said Darrel.

Valeriana places the stone shards in the slots where the stones once laid. Then she turns to open the box, and a portal opens. Anne, Darrel, Sasha, and Marcy look up to their one way ticket home. Then, they turn around, standing hand in hand. Looking back at all the friends they've made, as one big final goodbye. They bow to their friends, and they cheer and cry farewell to them.

Sasha and Marcy were the first to cross the portal. Then, Tint hugged Darrel goodbye one last time and said, "Goodbye, brother." Darrel smiled, "Look to the stars, dear brother, and you'll find me again." And before he could go any further, he saw Anne and Sprig hug once again. "Anne," said Darrel. "It's time."

Anne lets Sprig go and takes Darrel's hand as the two cross the portal back home. After they crossed, the portal closed, leaving only a small leaf to fall in their place. Cronaxx smiled, "Now, my work here is done." He hugs his nephew once more, knowing his unfinished business was over. "Goodbye, Tint," he said. "Remember who you are." He snaps his fingers, causing the powerless music box to disintegrate into the air. And his spirit ascends to the sky, finally at peace.

"So what now?" Hop pop asked. "Now we build a better world," replied Olivia. "Together," said Grime. Then out of nowhere, Polly gets a tingly sensation coming from the side of her head, and then a strand of hair pops out. "Not to undercut you guys," she said. "But I JUST GOT MY FIRST HAIR!"

On the other side of the portal, Darrel, Anne, Sasha, and Marcy have finally returned home after months of being apart. Darrel looks back to see the portal close and looks back up to the bright orange sky of Los Angeles. He puts his hands in the pockets of his wizard robes and finds a shard of the crystal of the Eternal Staff. Darrel keeps a firm grip on it, and the four friends make their way back to their families.

Time had passed in Amphibia. And what was once desolate wastelands now thrive with new fresh fields of grass. The factories were once abandoned again, never to be touched by life. Kill a moths and dragonflies fly in harmony and dominate the skies with their beautiful color schemes.

Out in the fields of Wartwood, Andrias, a once mighty tyrant king, was now living in exile among the common folk. He was wearing a dark cloak, using Barrel's war hammer as a cane. And on his cloak were two pins of his friends Leif and Marcy. His eyes have now become slightly milky from aging. His community service was to help farm in the fields of Amphibia. But Andrias didn't mind, for his past experiences changed him for the better.

In the town of Wartwood, One eyed Wally, now dawning his first class hairstyle, was leaving Stumpy's for the day. "Good day you frogs! See you at the ceremony." Then, he was bumped into a girl frog. "Pardon me young lady," he said. "Who're you calling young lady?" asked the girl frog.

That frog was none other than Polly Plantar. The amount of time that passed has changed Polly from a young tadpole with sprouted legs, to a fully grown frog with orange hair and newly formed fingers and toes. She was wearing mechanical overalls and wearing sports tape on her limbs due to her love for robotics. "Oh, hello Polly," said Wally. "Still can't get used to you as a frog." "Whatever Wally," said Polly as she raced into town.

In town, Tint Tormak has made a great living for himself. He decided to stay with the Plantars as his permanent home, considering they're the best adopted family he has. He has also experienced a slight growth spurt, making him a bit taller. He lost his orange fins connected to his gills, and started sprouting a fourth one at the bottom of his third. Almost making him look just like his great uncle Cronaxx. He still wore his red shirt with black pants, but now he's dawned his uncle's hat, a blue cape made of the same material Darrel used to make his cloak, and Darrel's compass wrapped around his neck.

He and Maddie recently started a business selling pan and potions together. And because of their love for magic, they started hanging out a lot to the point where they decided to get together. Maddie offered Mrs Croaker a new potion she brewed. "Here's the potion for your rheumatism, Mrs. Croaker." "But try not to drink it too- fast?" said Tint a little too late. Mrs Croaker already chugged the whole potion and she started dancing.

Tint spots Polly racing across town. "Tint, come on!" she cried. "They're about to start!" "Sweet," said Tint. "Come on Maddie, let's close up shop." "Go ahead my Fireball," said Maddie. "I'll meet you in town square." Tint nodded and followed Polly across town.

They run past Loggle, who has lost all his mass muscles after the war, trying to push something strong. "Hurry up Loggle," said Tint. "It's almost time for the unveiling," said Polly. "I never should've taken that cheat day," said Loggle, missing his massive gains.

The two run across town, just as Joe Sparrow lands with Olivia, Yunan, and Grime, who now became a Paladin. His armor was replaced with a lighter white uniform, and he started growing his beard, making him look wise. He also carries one of Sasha's swords as a remembrance. The three were greeted by the newly appointed mayor of Wartwood, Toadie.

"Hello delegates," he greeted. "You're just in time for the ceremony." Grime was most surprised, "Toadie, you won the election?" "Well I had a little help," replied Toadie. "Constituents don't bribe themselves," said Toadstool, who is now the assistant to Mayor Toadie.

Joe Sparrow greets Bessie with a flower, showing the world that they've gotten together as well. And were parents to multiple snail birds. Yunan and Olivia watch children run around, having fun. "You know I wouldn't mind settling down in a quiet swamp like this," said Olivia. "It's slow, the people are friendly," "And it's far away from the countless enemies," said Yunan.

"I made a lot when I was General Yunan! Scourge of the Sand Wars! Defeater of Ragnar the Wretched-" "I know, sweetheart," said Olivia patting her partner's back. "We all know." Yunan blushes in response to Olivia interrupting her.

Back at the Plantar farm, Hop pop started growing his own line of fresh avocados, thanks to the avocado seed Darrel gave to him. Frobo became a full time gardener, and Silvia Sundew started settling down with Hop pop.

Polly and Tint race to find Sprig, so they ask Hop pop. "Hey Hop pop. have you seen Sprig?" "It's ceremony time," said Polly. "In his usual spot," said Hop pop. The two know what his usual spot is. So they go look for him.

Sprig, now with hair coming out of his head, and a red neckerchief around his neck, was in the basement using Anne's old phone to log in his adventure book. Since Anne left, he's been in the basement using it to plan future adventures.

"Yo Sprig," said Tint. "It's time for the unveiling ceremony. Let's go!" "Finally," said Sprig following the two. "Can't wait to see how it turned out." The three get to the unveiling ceremony on time, just as Loggle unveiled the town's newest statue of Wartwood. The statue was none other than Anne Boonchuy, sword drawn and the calamity box in hand.

Suddenly, Sprig was ambushed by his girlfriend, Ivy. "AMBUSH!" Ivy gets off Sprig and tells him the good news. "Guess what Sprig," she said. "Grime just told me they discovered a new continent! Untouched by frog, newt, toad, or salamander. Feel like a new adventure?"

Sprig smiled and looked at the statue of his departed best friend. "I'm in," said Sprig. "Count me in too," said Tint. "I'll navigate." "Don't go without me," said Maddie. The two hold hands. "Looks like we're all in," said Sprig. The four race off to discover new uncharted territory in the land of Amphibia.

Meanwhile, in the city of Los Angeles, it's ten years later after the events of what happened during the city's short term siege. A red car pulls up to the Los Angeles airport, waiting for a visitor to arrive. "Today," said the news anchor. "Marks the ten year anniversary of the event we've come to know as 'Frog-vasion'. But the real question remains: Was it all a hoax?"

Outside the Los Angeles airport, Marcy Wu, now twenty three years old, was waving to the person waiting for her. It was an adult Sasha Waybright. "Sasha!" Marcy cried. "Marc," greeted Sasha. Marcy rushes over to hug her, but a slight mishap causes her to trip and fall flat on her face. "I'm okay," she said as she got back up.

The two were then seen driving in the streets of Los Angeles, with a couple gifts sitting in the back for someone's birthday. "Gosh it's been a minute," said Sasha. "How was the flight?" "Pretty good," replied Marcy. "Can you believe it's been ten years?" "Crazy right?" replied Sasha.

"So what have you been up to? Still doing that webcomic? I read a few chapters. It's awesome." Marcy was pleased to know that her friend was reading her webcomic. "Oh, thanks. It's doing pretty well online. And how about you? Psych degree come in handy?" "Yep," replied Sasha. "I really like working with the kids. Helping them overcome their emotional baggage. I have a lot of experience."

Suddenly, a driver changes lanes right in front of her. Causing Sasha to get angry and honk her horn. "Hey! Nice signal buddy!" Marcy chuckled in response to that outburst. "So, did you, Darrel, and Anne hang out much after I moved?"

"At first yeah," replied Sasha. "But we kinda fell into different friend groups in high school. We still talked, but only every once in a while. Darrel and Anne took a small break from their relationship before they graduated. They both wanted to open new horizons in their lives. Last I heard from Darrel was that he spent more time with his roommates in college, Ivan, Jake, Frank, and Eddie. After he graduated from college, he and Anne found each other again."

"I suppose it wouldn't have worked out between you two?" Marcy asked. "It's okay," said Sasha. "Keep telling yourself that, Mar Mar. Besides, there are plenty of people out in the world who would want to know me. Men or Women. Anyway, have you heard what they've been doing these days?" "Yes," replied Marcy. "And I love it."

At the Griffith Observatory, a fun presentation was in the process of entertaining students on a field trip. Their host was a twenty three year old man, Caucasian with brown slightly messy hair. His outfit consists of brown pants, and a tanned shirt. He wore a purple neckerchief, and a crystal hanging from below. His name is Darrel Loyalitat.

After his experience with practicing magic, he took his visual effects skills and refurbished his mind with bigger and brighter ways to make great videos. But every once in a while, he goes out to look at the stars in the sky. So to keep his spirits up, he got a job at the planetarium where he can entertain people with his visual effects and his interests in stars, constellations, nebulas, even new worlds.

"And so, ladies and gentlemen," he concluded. "If your imagination is as big as the universe, you'd be amazed to know that we're not alone on this planet." The planetarium finishes the video screening and the students applaud their host.

As the day comes to an end, Darrel proceeds to make a stop before heading home. He looks at his phone with a message from 'DungeonBuddy' "We're on our way, meet us there." Darrel smiled, knowing that Marcy has arrived. He starts his car and makes his way to where they're going to meet. On his passenger seat, was a wrapped gift made out to someone's birthday. And on his left hand shows his old grandfather's watch, and a gold band on one of his fingers.

Darrel drives to the Aquarium of the Pacific. Lucky for him, Marcy and Sasha haven't arrived yet. He pays for admission and enters the aquarium looking for a specific location. He finds his way into the exhibit called the Wonderful World of Frogs. He finds who he's looking for in the exhibit. Anne Boonchuy, twenty three years old, herpetologist, and his wife. She was wearing the traditional work shirt for the aquarium. Wore brown boots, and light brown shorts. Her hair is also tied into a ponytail with a hair tie that has leaves on them.

"A frog's environment is everything," she said to a group of elementary school students. "They love humidity." She shows them a small pink frog, and they gaze in magnificence. "This energetic fella is a pink South American tree frog." "What's his name?" asked one of the students.

"I named him Sprig," replied Anne. "After a dear dear friend of mine." "Okay class," said the teacher. "Everyone thank Anne the herpetologist." "Thanks Frog lady," said the class as they left with their teacher.

"Hi, honey," said Darrel. Anne was most happy to see him. "How was your day at work, Darrel?" she asked. "It's great as usual," replied Darrel. "Everyday is a gift. Speaking of which." He shows his gift to Anne, making her smile. "Happy birthday, Anne." "Thanks sweetie."

The two look down at the little frog and smile. "How's Lil' Tint doing?" Darrel asked. "See for yourself," replied Anne. As she opens the display case, he finds a small fire salamander resting on top of a branch. Darrel smiled and touched his crystal and neckerchief.

As Anne closed the door, the two could see in the reflection of their childhood friends. Sasha and Marcy waved to two love birds and the four were happily reunited. They all leave the aquarium to spend the rest of Anne's birthday together.

While spending the day, Darrel thinks back to all he's done in Amphibia. Of course the adventure was over, but he couldn't help but smile at all he's accomplished on his own. Thanks to the adventure in Amphibia, he wouldn't be where he is today. A great friend, a great husband, a great man.

Just goes to show, change can be difficult. But that's how people grow. It can be the hardest thing, to realize you can't hold onto something forever. Sometimes, you have to let it go. But of the things you let go, you'd be surprised what makes it way back to you. That's the one thing that will never change: Loyalty. Loyalty works in many ways, and they can coexist not just in our world. Loyalty can live Among other Worlds.

-THE END