Assassin's Creed: Last Descendants – Fate of the Gods

Assassin's Creed: Last Descendants – Fate of the Gods is an young adult novel written by Matthew J. Kirby. The follow-up to Assassin's Creed: Last Descendants – Tomb of the Khan and the conclusion of the Last Descendants series, it was released on 26 December 2017.

Blurb

The stunning conclusion to the Last Descendants Trilogy! Only one piece of the Trident of Eden remains - Isaiah, a rogue Templar agent, has discovered both the faith prong and the fear prong of this powerful relic. Should he possess the devotion prong, there is little that can stop him. For the time being, Owen and his fellow teens have established an uneasy alliance across Assassin and Templar lines in order to stop Isaiah while they still can.

Over a thousand years earlier, Styrbjörn the Strong, a Danish warrior, leads the Jomsvikings against the Danish king, Harald Bluetooth. It is on those Viking battlefields that the secrets of the devotion prong lie. It is there that the fate of the world, the truth behind the teens' collective unconsciousness, and their ancestral links to one another lie.

History has already been written. The rest is up to Owen, Javier, and the other members of their unlikely alliance. The actions they take will change the world of Assassin's Creed forever.

Summary

Chapter One

In 2016, Sean immerses himself in the memories of his Viking ancestor, Styrbjörn the Strong, who engages in a decisive battle against King Harald Bluetooth. Styrbjörn's fleet waits on the coast of Jutland at Aros for Harald's longships. It has been ten days since Isaiah told Sean about the group going rogue with Victoria working with the Assassins. Back in the simulation, Styrbjörn organizes his ships to tactically withstand Harald's forces while he looks for the king. Palnatoke asks if his plan is assured but Styrbjörn promises that the king will lose.

Reaching the shore, Styrbjörn orders the first command of his ships to attack Harald's ship. After the next two commands to secure a path to Harald, his plan reaches a stop when a Danish longship hits his own ship. Nevertheless, Styrbjörn forges forward only for him to be tossed overboard. Despite the weight of his armor and weapons, he rises up but loses his shield. With his axe Randgríð and his short knife, he goes against two ships filled with Danes. However, he bypasses most of the first ship and makes his way onto the second ship.

With the distance between him and Harald growing farther, Styrbjörn jumps on the next ship and uses an oar to push back all of its warriors. Not losing the opportunity, he jumps into the waters and swims to Harald's ship, only to be shot in the thigh. With his axe, he climbs aboard Harald's ship and pulls out the arrow. When Harald sends two of his men, Styrbjörn kills them swiftly. He then orders Harald to surrender as Styrbjörn claims his army for himself. Meanwhile, Sean sees the prong hanging from Harald's belt but stops himself from desynchronization to grab it.

Chapter Two

Owen watches at the Aerie, where he sees Victoria meet with Templars, two men and a woman, of whom Griffin states that one is at least a part of the Inner Sanctum. Owen then tells Griffin about how Isaiah showed him his father's memories and questions him about the Assassins' involvement. Griffin rebuffs him and states that Isaiah has lied and he will not dignify an answer to such a response. Reminding himFed up with the Assassins, Owen finds himself among his group, all of which are still consoling Natalya. She continues to blame herself but they all repeat that Isaiah is to blame, especially Owen.

They also discuss not to trust either Victoria or Griffin, but they have no else to help them and it is fine for them to keep secrets for now. Victoria soon joins them and asks them if they want to stay. She promises that Abstergo and the Templars will leave them alone. However, Owen, Javier, Grace, and David agree to stay to stop Isaiah from world domination and Natalya stays for the chance to save Sean from Isaiah's hold. Victoria also explains from Monroe's note that Sean's ancestor is shown to have taken the prong, but some of their ancestors were there as well.

Victoria states that Javier and the Collins have ancestors at the final battle for Styrbjörn. Although Owen is on the sidelines, Natalya sighs with relief that she does not have to be in the Animus. Victoria then leaves them while Owen and Natalya walk to the common room for food. Natalya confronts Owen, who asks how she is doing. Done with the caring, she says that she wants to be left alone. Owen just asks if she is okay, but she responds that she is fine curtly.

However, Natalya asks how is anyone okay with Yanmei's death and this whole conundrum they are in, especially during the simulations. Owen explains that that was the past but Natalya still feels the residual effects of being Bayan and how he left Zhang Zhi brutalized. Meeting the others again for food, they talk about the next steps of how to retrieve the Trident of Eden from Isaiah and how to hide it away from both sides. Before they could discuss further, Victoria tells them that she is ready with the simulations.

Chapter Three

David wonders how he and Grace will be able to simulate their ancestor together. Victoria soon comes to ready the Collins and Javier. She tells them that they will be going into separate simulations. The Collins will be with her while Javier goes with Monroe. While Victoria sets up the simulation, she explains that they will take turn being their ancestor until she determines who is better able to handle it. Grace volunteers David to go first while David jokes that she can go first. David steps into the Animus and starts to find the identity of his ancestor.

Becoming a large, white man, David soon uncovers the identity to be farmer-warrior Östen Jorundsson and is impressed by his memories. Upon meeting his son Tørgils Östensson, David becomes disgusted of seeing Arne as his ancestor's slave. His emotions soon become unstable while Victoria asks what is happening. Trying to control his emotions before he desynchronizes, he tries to use Östen's memories as a stepping stone. However, when going over Östen's memory of attaining Arne as a slave, he loses control again.

Desynchronizing, David loses conscience before waking up to Grace and Victoria around him. Asking what has happened, Victoria sees him throw up while Grace consoles him. David remains silent before asking for some time to recollect himself. With Grace's insistence, Victoria agrees and leaves to check on Javier. Grace soon asks what happened but David assures her that he is okay. However, he begins to hope that Javier is the ancestor who has the prong and not his.

Chapter Four

Javier and Monroe readies themselves in the Animus but Monroe explains the inclusion of the Parietal Suppressor. Nevertheless, Javier goes into the Animus and experiences the painstaking feeling of the suppressor before falling into his ancestor's memories. Within the memory, he smells the forest and wildlife and then senses him to be Thorvald Hjaltason, an Icelandic skald and Swedish Assassin. Making his way across the forest, he comes a group of escaped bondsmen. Two of them, Heine and Boe Björnsson, are arguing after Boe broke Heine's nose during an altercation.

While they all fall asleep later, Thorvald watches and is too late to stop Heine, who murders Boe in his sleep. When Heine walks away from the camp to avoid suspicion, Thorvald follows and later pounces upon him, breaking his back. Interrogating Heine, Thorvald questions about their presence here. Heine reveals that they came to rebel against King Eric the Victorious in exchange for their own land. Leaving Heine on his own, Thorvald takes his horse Gyllir and rides to Uppsala, where King Eric resides.

Arriving in Uppsala, Thorvald goes to a house besides the temple and meets with Torgny the Lawspeaker, a blind old man, who welcomes him back into his home. At the table, Thorvald discusses how Styrbjörn may be planning an attack against his uncle. Torgny orders Thorvald to go about by sea and check if Styrbjörn travels past Mälaren. Torgny stresses that although Styrbjörn may not know it, he may bring the Templars here to Sweden and their Brotherhood has kept them at bay, revealing himself to be a Mentor. Assigning Thorvald his mission, Torgny plans to inform Eric of the impending war before eating his breakfast.

Chapter Five

Natalya holds a bit of animosity towards Owen while still bearing with the fact of Yanmei's death. Owen soon cuts the tension by stating they do not have to be back in the Animus. Natalya then asks what side is he on but Owen replies his own, as he does not trust the Assassins or the Templars. Feeling some type of unison, Natalya and Owen are interrupted by Monroe, who agrees with their sentiment. Taking them to help him, Monroe explains his theory about the Ascendance Event, especially again to Natalya. While explaining the collective conscience within all six of them, Monroe states that Owen and Natalya are able to go back into that memory.

However, Monroe states that this memory is the nearest to the humanity's beginning and proves more dangerous to their psyches than the regular sessions. When Natalya asks why it must be them, Monroe states that the six of them have the most of the sub-DNA and that his own attempt proved more destructive than constructive. Although scared of the danger, Natalya realizes that this opportunity is a lifetime event and that time is running out. When she agrees to help, Owen follows too. Monroe explains that he will need time. Natalya soon takes Owen outside to breath, while he asks what he saw from the Piece of Eden.

While Natalya remains quiet, Owen divulges that he envisioned his father killing the man and being elated at the crime he committed right to his face. Silent, Natalya recalls her nightmare starting with staying at the park too long and arriving to her grandparents late. Upon seeing their corpses, she remembers her parents yelling at her and blaming her. Natalya soon snaps out of the bad dream but does not reveal her nightmare to Owen. Monroe appears and tells them that he is ready.

Chapter Six

Grace speaks with David after desynchronization and begins to understand what happened. David explains that his inner morality could not coincide with his ancestor's use of slavery. Realizing the concerns, Grace offers to go despite her own misgivings and much to David's reluctance. Going through the Animus again, she sees Östen but begins to feel inadequate over Arne's slavery. However, after some time, she finally allows herself to be part of his memories. Back at his home, while farming, he encounters a visit from his neighbor Olof. Telling Tørgils to make a plate for him, Östen sees the Bidding Stick as Olof tells him that he, himself, and others have been summoned to fight.

Learning it was against Styrbjörn, Östen takes the stick inside after receiving word to head to Uppsala. Inside, he sees his wife Hilla and son Tørgils look at the stick while Agnes and Greta ask what it means. Hilla goes to back to looming but angered while Tørgils is told to take it to the next farm before sundown. Telling his daughters to play outside, Östen goes to Hilla, who is annoyed by what will happen. Östen soon asks for a piece of thread and for her to tie it. Confused, Hilla asks why while Östen states that he fell in love with her again and promises to come back for her to cut it.

Hilla tries to admit that he is fighting for his honor and glory but Östen reveals that Styrbjörn has returned. Shocked, Hilla understands the threat at hand and asks him to promise to return. He promises but begins to doubt his return. Arne comes inside while Östen tells him that Styrbjörn has returned. He orders Arne to stay behind and guard his family, with the intention to talk about his freedom if all goes well at home. Hilla agrees and states that he deserves it. Readying Östen with food, Hilla prepares himself with the meals while he prepares his weapons. The next morning, he leaves and travels to Uppsala by foot, awaiting the coming storm.

Chapter Seven

Sean remains awake and desires to go back into the Animus due to falling asleep feeling like being on a longship. In a room, he looks outside and does not know where he is, but believe that he is in the United Kingdom. While standing up, Isaiah enters and begins to talk about the progress and commitment he has shown to him. However, Isaiah soon helps and wheels Sean out of the room, despite Sean's disdain for the aid. Entering a prototype van called the Poindexter, Isaiah drives Sean to the chapel where they will continue the simulation.

Outside, Sean notices the incoming Abstergo staff coming to help Isaiah, especially Cole. However, he notices a bit of resistance before being wheeled by Isaiah to the Animus. Rushing Sean to the simulation, Isaiah starts the simulation much to Sean's excitement. When in the simulation, he experiences Styrbjörn talking about his plans for Svealand with his sister Gyrid and her husband Harald, who surrendered to Styrbjörn his army. Wanting to go through Mälaren, Styrbjörn is met with resistance by Harald, who states that it will be a trap for his men and him.

However, Styrbjörn and Gyrid overrule Harald and goes forward with their plan, which includes Harald leading along with Styrbjörn so his men can follow. While in the simulation, Sean still sees the prong Harald carries and notices him trying to use it. Telling Isaiah, Sean tells him that Harald knows the prong's abilities. Isaiah adds that it makes sense to his legacy of uniting all of Denmark. Sean remarks that Harald is using the prong but Styrbjörn is apparently immune to its power. Interested, Isaiah tells Sean that he will end the simulation.

Sean retorts that it is not necessary and states that he will continue. However, Isaiah tells him that he is in charge but Sean argues against his decision. While trying to continue, Sean begins to crash as the simulation breaks apart instantly. Out of the Animus, Sean begins to violently throw up while Isaiah condemns his actions. Sean soon realizes Isaiah holding a trident with the two prongs. Isaiah soon holds the trident and tells him that he should and will not defy him again.

Chapter Eight

Natalya and Owen go with Monroe as they prepare for the dangerous simulation, to unlock the meaning behind the Ascendance Event. Using older models, Natalya and Owen are told of the risks but still go forward with it. With the headsets and the Parietal Suppressor, both of them simulate themselves in their best apparel from the memories. Together, they walk towards a light, which gradually becomes bigger. Before long, they are both told from a mysterious voice that the only way forward is breaking through the faith, fear, and devotion.

Monroe concludes that their theory is further proven with the words correlating with the Trident of Eden and its prongs. While they make their way through a tunnel, they come across a forest. Owen also begins to smell a putrid smell but notices the forest also being a old age. Monroe suggests that this is a version of "The Forest," which has been archetyped by multiple religions. Going through the Forest, Owen begins to hear something and thus they progress with caution. However, the forest seems endless as their exit has changed. However, Owen notices what the smell is from his childhood.

They soon come across the shedding of a snake's skin. Natalya suggests that this may be "The Snake." Monroe reminds them that the simulation is not real and of memories of those at the beginning of time. Going forward, they catch sight of the snake, black and as big as a sofa, looking straight at them. Scared, Owen tells Natalya to run.

Chapter Nine

David begins to feel out of place as he recalls the nightmare Isaiah put him under in Mongolia. David recalls that he was being chased by a local criminal and a bigoted white man, only to find his home empty. Realizing his fear was being alone, he understands that he cannot give in and begins to wonder how Grace is able to synchronize. He concludes that she accepted the past but not the man. Walking to Victoria, he asks her to try again but she states that Grace is okay. However, David is able to talk with Grace in the Animus and convince Victoria to let him try.

Out of the Animus, Grace asks if David wants to try again. When David says yes, Grace reminds him that he cannot change the past but to accept what has been done. David undergoes the simulation again but accepts his anger and Östen rather than fighting it. As Östen, he arrives at a camp where he meets those under the ledung including Olof, Alferth, and Skarpe. Östen soon breaks off an altercation between Skarpe and Alferth as he reminds all of them that they fight under Eric and they can fight after their oaths are fulfilled. Resting for a moment, he and the others are soon warned of Styrbjörn's movements at Mälaren. Östen sees that they have two days until they fight.

Chapter Ten

Thorvald and Torgny arrive at Eric's hall in Uppsala. However, they are soon halted by the marshal, who forbids them to enter as King Eric and his war council are holding a meeting. While Thorvald is ready to take on the marshal and his men, Torgny reminds the marshal of his relationship with Eric. Although the marshal tells him to read his fortunes elsewhere, Torgny tells him that he has been the council to Eric and that has not stopped. He also states that his arrival is to the king and that the marshal must have been paid to stop him. Shocked, the marshal is left embarrassed while Torgny and Thorvald move forwards to Eric's meeting.

Inside, both Thorvald and Torgny enter, where some men stare while others bow in respect. Speaking to King Eric, Torgny overhears the current war plans and ideas from Jarl Frida to engage Styrbjörn's forces. Before offering his opinion, Torgny states that he has had a vision to share with only King Eric. Realizing the moment, Eric dismisses his council members and stands alone with Torgny and Thorvald. Torgny admits the vision is more of a message of what has happened and admits to the Brotherhood he and Thorvald belong to, much to Eric's reluctance.

Torgny admits that the Templar Order may be using Styrbjörn's plans and warfare to further grow their influence and offers for Thorvald to stop them in their tracks. He states although Styrbjörn may not be a Templar, he is a tool that must not meet Eric at any cost, to stall any chance of a fight to the death. Eric soon asks how they will enact their plan. Thorvald takes point and admits that Frida's plan is intriguing but lacks any substance. He plans to build a palisade at Mälaren, to stop any ships from Styrbjörn, to which Eric agrees. Thorvald also states that he plans to take a small legion of loyal men to attack his forces while halted.

Looking to his bear Astrid, Eric tells them that his council will not listen to Thorvald. Thorvald sets up the idea that it will come Torgny under the vision being from Odin, to symbolize a father punishing a wayward son like Thor to Styrbjörn. Eric agrees to the plan and hands him an arm bracelet to enact his plan while he and Torgny stay to convince his council. Leaving the hall, Thorvald is stopped by the marshal, still humiliated from earlier. However, Thorvald incapacitates him and holds him at knifepoint, telling him that if he still feels raw about it, they will fight afterwards.

Taking Gyllir, he rides to a camp of men who recently arrived under the oath of the Bidding Stick. There, he talks to the men but fails to find one who truly fits to his ideal group of warriors. He soon comes across farmer-warrior Östen, who admits that all he wants is to go home. Finding his first warrior, Thorvald enacts his plan into action.

Chapter Eleven

Natalya and Owen keep running from the snake. Running for cover, they find none while Natalya is almost struck by the massive snake. With the snake stuck on a tree, Owen and Natalya make their way away from it. However, the snake proves to be bigger and soon encompasses the forest. However, while wondering how to escape it, Natalya recalls that the snake represents death and fear and believes to go over its body. Climbing a tree, they find themselves over the snake while Natalya tries to find a branch to jump over it.

Natalya struggles but manages to hang just above the snake. Swinging, she makes her way onto the snake but does not let go out of fear. Telling Owen to follow, they ride the snake, which traverses through the forest instantly. Still fearful and in danger, she is told to jump as there is no other way around it. Waiting for the right moment, Natalya jumps off first before Owen jumps off behind her. Not seeing Owen, she sees the snake facing her. Realizing there is no escape, she stands and the snakes bites her whole.

Realizing that she is inside the snake, Natalya accepts and goes forward. Feeling like she is falling, Natalya is alert when Owen comes and finds her. Instantly, the snake had vanished and Natalya describes what she had done. A path of red stones appear while Monroe checks in on them. Hearing everything, he tells them to follow the path while he goes to meet with Grace, who entered the room. Moving forward, they soon see a figure in the distance above them.

Chapter Twelve

Grace watches as David remains in the simulation and begins to wonder about her nightmare Isaiah casted on her. Her nightmare revolved around David falling into a bad crowd and died as a result. After she escapes the nightmare, she has not let go of David. Thus, she fears for his life even while he is in the Animus. Going around the Aerie, she soon finds Isaiah's library and goes through his collection. Finding a book on Norse mythology, she soon comes across Loki and his children. As she reads of Odin's death to Fenrir and Thor's death to Jörmungandr. However, a note falls from the book.

Grace reads the note and finds Isaiah's true cause for having the Trident. Not trusting Victoria or Griffin, she goes to Monroe, who watches over Owen and Natalya. She gives him the note as he finds mention of the Instruments of the First Will. Keeping the note to himself, Monroe explains what Owen and Natalya are doing. Grace offers to join them while Monroe explains the risks. Nevertheless, she waits as Monroe readies the third helmet and informs Owen and Natalya. Within the simulation, Grace is soon met by Owen and Natalya. Explaining the circumstances, they follow the path.

Soon enough, they come across a dog, who barks at them. Relating this to Fenrir, they cautiously follow the dog while on the path. However, the dog strays off the path and the trio begin to debate whether to go after the dog or follow the path. They agree to follow enough to keep the path in their eyesight. The dog soon makes his way up a mountain and the trio find themselves at the apex. Atop, they see a figure sitting down with a staff with the dog besides him. Cautious, they ask if the man is dead. The man responds that he is dying but asks to help him before he does.

Chapter Thirteen

Isaiah soon uses the Trident to enact fear into Sean, who disobeyed him earlier. Sean soon experiences a vision where everyone blames and pities after his various losses at multiple sports event. His greatest fears is being worthless and how he holds everyone back. However, Isaiah soothes him and tells him that he is helping him, but only he follow his orders. Sean, manipulated, feels at ease and follows Isaiah. Being put back into the simulation, he soon falls into a memory of Styrbjörn sailing alongside Harald and Palnatoke.

While crossing the lake Mälaren, Styrbjörn recalls of the brothers who joined him but notes how some refused under fear of those killing them for joining. However, he and Palnatoke still hunger for battle against King Eric while Harald voices his discontent. He also notices Harald touching his dagger and inquires about its history. While Harald remains mainly silent, Styrbjörn proposes a deal. He will let Harald and his men go if Harald will throw the dagger into the sea. Instantly, Harald states that he will not which does not surprise Styrbjörn.

Styrbjörn asks what makes the dagger special while Harald states that it was a gift handed down by Bishop Poppa, who christened him and in turn received by Holy Roman Emperor Otto. He explains that the degree of power the dagger holds is worth his and his men's freedom. While sailing, they all come across a palisade, which blocked their ships from sailing towards Uppsala. Realizing his uncle's plan, he plans to forge forward but Palnatoke and Harald speak to him about his choices. Set with either marching or sailing with delay, he goes against their advice and plans to march.

When Palnatoke leaves to rest for the night, Harald plans to go to rest with his men but Styrbjörn believes that he will run away. Fed up with his crude leadership, Harald ignores him but Styrbjörn demands that he gives his dagger in order to rest with his men. When Harald disagrees and tries to leave, Styrbjörn attacks him and tosses him against a tree. Held against his will, Harald gives his dagger and leaves to rest. With the dagger, Styrbjörn later rests himself. Sean tells Isaiah that his ancestor has the dagger and then moves forward to the next day. Styrbjörn is soon awaken by Palnatoke, who states that Harald and his men have left Styrbjörn's army.

Chapter Fourteen

Owen and his group meet the man, who speaks to them about his dog. He sees himself as a "wanderer" and has seen many wonderous events and has been left with more questions than answers. They ask about if he knows about the path, to which he admits that they will follow the path to a crossroads . However, the wanderer asks them a favor, which relies on them taking care of the dog before he dies. Owen agrees much to Grace and Natalya's surprise. With the wanderer happy, he states that winter has arrived while snow begins to fall down.

Before long, the wanderer dies while the dog sits by her former master, wondering why he is no longer awake. Owen tries to have the dog follow him but he growls harshly and stays with the wanderer's body. While Grace and Natalya want to leave, Owen states that he will stay while the girls try to dissuade him but to no avail. While they leave, Owen goes nearer to the dog, which he tries to convince to leave. With the dog adamant, he tells it that he understands and how he lost his father and the pain is real. While it continues to snow, Owen begins to feel colder and numb but stays with the devoted dog.

Feeling cold, Owen feels warmth when the dog goes to him and wakes him up. Although the dog seems compelled to help, he still stays with the wanderer. Owen realizes that he has done what he could and begins to leave for the path. However, the dog finally follows him and they soon come across the crossroads. Although he cannot see Grace and Natalya, he continues forward and tries to find a new owner for the dog.

Chapter Fifteen

Östen, along with Alferth, Olof, and numerous warriors, follow Thorvald, who plans for them to stop and stall Styrbjörn's fleet with the palisade. After having built the palisade, Östen is left in charge while Thorvald leaves him a plan to leave snares and traps around the Mirkwood. Realizing Styrbjörn and his men will be marching through the forest, Thorvald gives Östen a deadly poison to make sure if the snares do work, they will be doused with the poison. If not done directly into the bloodstream, death is inevitable through contact.

Placing the snares and traps, Östen and his men wait until the right moment. After hearing their methods work, Styrbjörn's warriors stop and halted to make camps around the forest. While their plans worked, Östen speak to his men about to expect and how their actions will not be out in the open and expect that their honor may be lost but not their homes. In the nights, Östen signals his men to attack quickly and run out. After multiple times, they take down more men after every single time. However, Östen sees that he loses some men in the process.

To make matters worse, Östen soon hears someone call out Styrbjörn, who comes to aid his warriors. One of Östen's men falls quickly to Styrbjörn. Alferth tries to fight against the warlord but is quickly beaten and killed. Wanting to fight against Styrbjörn, Östen makes his way until his wristband pulls him back slightly. Looking at the wristband, he and his men retreat when Styrbjörn calls out to burn down the forest if it means that he loses. Östen then promises to show Styrbjörn the true meaning of revenge and ferocity when the time comes.

Chapter Sixteen

Thorvald sees that his palisades has worked and that Bluetooth has taken his Danish army home, leaving Styrbjörn and his army smaller. After giving Östen his instructions, he leave the warrior and goes by the trees to spy on Styrbjörn and his men. Using his Odin sight, he traverses through the tree tops and ponders what to do. Although he can kill Styrbjörn, he believes that his Jomsvikings will still follow his goals due to Palnatoke's loyalty to Styrbjörn. Thus, he decides to kill the leader of the Jomsvikings.

Watching his men put the snares and traps, he waits for them to fall sooner or later to the poison. He soon sneaks into the encampment and comes across Styrbjörn and Palnatoke who talk about their next steps. Soon, they are interrupted by shieldmaiden Thyra, who reveals that she is the illegitimate daughter of Harald Bluetooth. Initially against her involvement, Styrbjörn asks why she is here. Thyra admitted that she herself is not vowed to her father and she wanted to follow Styrbjörn's plan against his uncle. Wanting to join his army, Palnatoke and Styrbjörn nearly reject her, but her hatred for her father and her reasoning convinces them to be part of Styrbjörn's army.

When the army halt their march after many of their men fall dead due to the posion, Thorvald stands by until he can sees his men attack first. When night comes, Styrbjörn joins his men once Östen and his men finally attacked. While Thyra wants to aid Styrbjörn, Palnatoke tells her to stay while he tries to rally his men and leader to form ranks. Thorvald finally sees his chance and follows the Jomsvikings' leader. When Palnatoke runs through the shadows, Thorvald strikes from above but the chieftain dodges the attack. Without the element of surprise, Thorvald begins to fight against Palnatoke.

Thorvald combats the chieftain's aggressive attacks while Palnatoke makes no call for reinforcements to prove his strength. Thorvald tries to kill with his blade but Palnatoke manages to avoid it. However, an opportunity arises when Thorvald manages to wound Palnatoke with his axe. With Palnatoke stunned, Thorvald finally manages to kill the chieftain. Dodging the traps, he catches sight of Styrbjörn fighting through Östen's men, killing Alferth, but also spots a strange dagger that he carries. When Styrbjörn calls to burn the Mirkwood down, he and Östen retreat with the remaining men.

Making their way away from Styrbjörn's men, Thorvald informs Östen of completing one of his tasks. Östen soon implores why Styrbjörn was not killed, but Thorvald explains his reasoning, which is that Palnatoke's men will not follow Styrbjörn since he let their commander die on his watch. While catching up, they are soon met by Olof and five of their men from their group. Although Styrbjörn may keep marching, Thorvald assures his men, which consists only half of the original group, that the Lawspeaker is building a new mechanism that will end any of Styrbjörn's incoming forces.

Chapter Seventeen

Natalya walks with Grace and finds their way back on the path. While hoping for Owen to follow them, they soon come across the crossroads the Wanderer mentioned last time. Waiting for a moment, they soon see Owen and the dog coming towards them. Owen explains that he needs to find the right companion for the dog as this task represents the devotion part. Thus, they all wait at the crossroads as a figure comes by them. Looking at the dog, the man asks that he needs the dog as a protector and will pay for him. Owen immediately rejects the offer and the man walks away.

Owen states that the man was wrong for wanting the dog and they all continue to wait. Another man passes by and looks kindly onto the dog. Working on a farm, he hopes and asks if he can have the dog to aid him on the farm as he is struggling to work. Although initially desired, Owen tells him no as he wants the dog as a helper. Although the man asks once more, Owen rejects him. When the farmer leaves, Owen asks Natalya and Grace to help him decide on the next person. They agree and wait longer than usual. Soon, they stand up when a woman comes in front of them.

The woman talks with them and explains that she has no need for a dog as she plans to travel along the path. Seeing her as another wanderer, Owen implores for her to take the dog. Initially saying no, the woman tries to leave but turns when Owen pleads again. Looking at the dog more fondly, she accepts the dog as the companion. Bidding the dog farewell, Owen tells the dog that he can go. Although confused, the dog soon wags and follow his new owner while Owen sees them walk away. Sad, Owen continues forward while they all look for their next task, faith.

Chapter Eighteen

The trio soon finds themselves in a different region of the simulation as they come across a darker sky and greyer outlook. Grace consoles Owen with her memory of her dog Brando, which she lost due to David's allergy. Coming across a bright light atop a mountain, they plan to go towards it. They soon come at the end of the path, where they see a figure of a giant human. Natalya soon finds a steep staircase with a rope on one side of the giant but Grace becomes scared. On the other side, Grace finds another path, a steep trail, for her.

Owen states that neither seem the best but he and Natalya soon decide on the staircase while the trail is too compromising. However, Grace makes the argument that the rope is uncertain due to not being able to support all three of them and its end. Ultimately, they decide to take on the trail. Grace soon asks them to help her as she fears falling if she loses a step. They soon hold hands as they traverse slowly over the trail. While treading carefully, they soon notice the ground was gone much to Grace's fear. Now climbing upon this new path, they soon grow tired and begin to rest.

Recovering from the long trek, Grace begins to wonder if the path is false and the light is an illusion. Soon, the air turns cold and terrain becomes icy. Grace soon hears noise coming from the abyss, telling her that she will fall. However, she snaps out of it while Owen and Natalya nearly give up. Grace tells them that Natalya beat the serpent and Owen helped the dog so they cannot stop. However, the abyss' siren nearly convince Owen to stop and Natalya to leave. Pushing herself forward, Natalya almost falls until Grace catches her.

Waking Owen up, Owen nearly helps both of them back on the trail. Initially mad, Grace soon sees that the abyss nearly tranced them to stop. Continuing forward despite their worries, they make their way to the top of the summit. However, the light is dim while a dome comes up from the ground of the mountain. Realizing they are nearing the end of their journey, they continue forward into the newfound structure.

Chapter Nineteen

Styrbjörn and the Jomsvikings' new command Gorm argue over his possession of the dagger and Gorm blames him for Palnatoke's death. However, Styrbjörn retorts that he will fight for Palnatoke and that he fell in battle rather than hiding in Jomsborg. Gorm states that his kingdom means little to them and how he does not honor Palnatoke and his demise. Yet, Thyra interjects that Styrbjörn can fight for both and how Gorm will not honor his leader's wishes even after death. With Styrbjörn impressed, Gorm relents and states that he and the Jomsviking will fight for the oath solely.

Styrbjörn thanks Thyra for her help while she tells him more about the dagger. From her explanation, Sean realizes that she knew of its power. After resting in their camp in the Mirkwood, they march towards Uppsala and notice that none of Eric's army stand in their way. While they believe that they guard Eric at his temple, Thyra hears a noise and soon notices a herd of cattle armed with weapons galore. Realizing it was created as an army breaker, Styrbjörn plans to move Thyra away and move his men out of the way. He then jumps over the herd but is cut deeply in his thigh. Against two oxen, he dodges their attacks and then goes to break apart the ropes and wooden connections between the cattles.

However, although he manages to fracture the army breaker, Styrbjörn sees some of his men fall and die to the weaponized cattle. Then, Eric's army from the ledung soon comes to attack Styrbjörn and his remaining men. Using his war horn, the Jomsvikings come to guard him, with Gorm and Thyra besides him. For the rest of the day, they fight valiantly against the farmer-warriors and hold them back for them to retreat. Regressing back to their Mirkwood camps, they kill the roaming cattle for their dinner. Meanwhile, Thyra tends to Styrbjörn's wound while Gorm comes and apologizes for his words from earlier. He later swears loyalty to him before leaving.

Styrbjörn and Thrya soon discuss what has happened and she brings up how his actions have impressed her. She soon admits that she wants to marry him before he becomes king as she feels enamored with Björn not the future king. Feeling the same, Styrbjörn is surprised when she wants to marry today and he agrees on the condition that she leaves the next day. Shocked, Thyra is then told she must be there for Gyrid if he falls on the battlefield. She agrees as they later set up their ceremony quickly. Together, they marry while Styrbjörn places the dagger into the stone wedding mound as a gift for the gods. Sean soon realizes that he sees the dagger and Isaiah begins to pull him out. Asking why so early, Sean is told that Styrbjörn will spend the night with Thyra but also Styrbjörn will die in the upcoming battle.

Chapter Twenty

Venturing into a corridor, Owen, Grace, and Natalya walk and sees a temple etched with strong golden lines. Realizing they are under the dome, they soon come across a towering glowing woman with dark hair. While they recognize the voice, she introduces herself as one of the Isu, Minerva. She explains to them that she was part of an ancient civilization who had conquered life and lived for thousand of years. However, their prideful and vain actions and weaponry could not save them or their creation from the catastrophe.

While the trio does not understand, Minerva explains that they were wrong and that life is not to be combatted but experienced and that their prowess led to their demise in terms of a solar flare. Although humans survived, her kind was gone. But before she would perish, she placed her memories into some humans so she can orchestrate an event where they would meet once again. She also explains the weapons they call the Pieces of Eden should not fall into anyone's hands, especially the Trident. Although uneased, Minerva tells the trio that their own paths and challenges will help them and shield them from the Trident of Eden when the time comes. While the trio remains lost, she bids them farewell.

Monroe soon finds Owen awake from the simulation and then goes to help Grace and Natalya out of the Animus. Discussing what occurred in their memories, Monroe explains that nearly of all of what Minerva said has happened. Grace soon mentions how people like the Instruments of the First Will used Isaiah to find the Trident. Monroe explains the Instruments being a mysterious group found within the Templars but surmises that Isaiah has defected for his own goal of world decimation. Telling the kids to stay, Monroe tells them that he must confer with Victoria and check on David and Javier. Owen still asks to view his father's true memory but Monroe tells him that he needs to be patient, to rest, and wait due to more important duties.

Chapter Twenty-One

Thorvald and Torgny speak with Eric with his bear Astrid besides him. Telling him about what has transpired, Eric grants them permission but does not want to know their methods, in order to maintain his honor. Torgny assigns Thorvald to find any means to kill Styrbjörn and to retrieve the dagger in his possession. Venturing through Uppsala, he goes through the Mirkwood and finds a piece of gold. Remembering the legend of Hrólfr Kraki, he sprinkles a bag of silver with the poison he used last time and scatters them around the ground.

Traversing through the treetops, Thorvald manages to see that Styrbjörn's army has been severely reduced. Making his way to Styrbjörn's tent, he finds the man being treated by Thyra while he talks with one of his captains. After the captain leaves, Thorvald overhears Styrbjörn and Thyra's conversation and subsequent marriage. Overseeing their ceremony, he catches Styrbjörn placing the dagger as a gift to Thor. However, he stops himself from killing the man due to not knowing Thyra's background. When they leave, Thorvald manages to steal the dagger and leaves the camp.

Making his way back to his mentor, Thorvald wakes Torgny up and goes to meet with Eric privately. While entering Eric's quarters, they are stopped by Astrid. Asking Eric for his assistance, they wait while Astrid is pulled back. They inform him about acquiring the dagger but lack of opportunity to kill Styrbjörn. They discuss to use the dagger as a sacrifice for Odin and to speak the words for all his men to hear. Another matter is discussed on the possibility of facing Styrbjörn in combat and they convince Eric to find a champion. Although the marshal is the apparent choice, Thorvald states that Styrbjörn will easily defeat him and even Eric. Thorvald later suggests another uncommon man for the job. Agreeing with their counsel, Eric tells them to find their man.

Thorvald walks through the camp and finds Östen sleeping. Bringing Östen to King Eric, Thorvald stands with Torgny and Eric, who asks Östen why he thinks he is here. Östen figures out that he is called to fight for Eric against his nephew, of whom he states is stronger than Eric. Paused, Eric agrees that Östen is uncommon and asks him to be his champion and fight against Styrbjörn if necessary. Östen agrees to the honor. Torgny and Eric take leave to inform the lords and the army while Thorvald and Östen prepare for tomorrow.

Chapter Twenty-Two

Östen is readied with his new armor as he stands beside Eric and Astrid. The army stands ready for their king's command while Thorvald and Torgny are nowhere to be seen. Soon, they see Styrbjörn and his army come from the Mirkwood onto the plain. Before long, the Jomsvikings face off against Eric's army while the marshal comes to Eric. He encourages Eric to face Styrbjörn alone to beat him but the king admits that Östen is his champion, much to the marshal's ire. Although Eric's army holds the initial advantage, the Jomvikings push back and hold the offensive. Simultaneously, the marshal rushes to attack Östen, who reacts slowly to the attack.

Fortunately, Thorvald manages to kill the marshal before Östen is hurt. Soon, Östen and Eric are pushed back by the Jomsvikings' forces but Eric's army manages to push them back. However, they soon see Styrbjörn pushing forward, taking down any of Eric's men in his way. Coming close to his uncle, Styrbjörn almost declares combat with Eric but Östen declares to face him alone for revenge for his fallen friend. Trying to dissuade Östen, Styrbjörn relents and unleashes a furious attack against the farmer-warrior. Östen loses his shield and is left to fight axe against axe with Styrbjörn. However, seeing Styrbjörn bleeding from his thigh, Östen finds an opening and lodges his axe in Styrbjörn's shoulder.

Injured, Styrbjörn manages to fight and wounds Östen as well. However, while both try to continue to fight, Styrbjörn begins to fall due to his wounds and ailment. Realizing that he has been poisoned by Eric again, Styrbjörn calls his uncle a coward. However, Östen knows that Thorvald managed to poison him as intended. Dying, Styrbjörn tries to die with honor and states his respect to Östen aloud. However, Thyra runs out to Styrbjörn before being stopped by three of Eric's housecarls. Eric calls for Östen to kill his nephew swiftly but declines. Having Thyra come through, Östen finds out that Thyra is his wife and queen and she holds Styrbjörn before he dies. After Styrbjörn's death, Eric calls out for his men to kill the Jomsvikings, who accept their deaths with honor.

After the battle, Thyra is bound and Östen is called to meet with Eric, Torgny, and Thorvald about their success. Thorvald admits that the marshal was working for Styrbjörn's success along with others, which he will find. Eric honors Östen for his duties by gifting Thyra as his thrall before he and Torgny leave to settle matters with the rest of his men. Before Östen could leave, Thorvald meets with him and gives him the dagger. Thorvald explains that he trusts Östen to hide it well from anyone. Östen soon divulges that he does not want Thyra as his thrall. Thorvald recommends that he release her away from prying eyes. They bid farewells to each other and thus Östen heads home.

Home, Östen is welcomed by his kids and Hilla and introduces them to his guest Thyra. After spending time with his family, he walks with Thyra and releases her from being her thrall. When he asks for her to take Arne back to Jutland, she admits that she cannot go back until she retrieves the Ingelrii sword Styrbjörn gifted her for their marriage. Östen understands and lets her be. Victoria soon tells David that they have what they need. David wants to stay longer to see more of Thyra's journey and see if Arne goes back home. However, upon Victoria telling him they must go, David concedes and says he is ready to leave.

Chapter Twenty-Three

Natalya waits in the common room along with Owen and Grace, until Javier and David walk through the doors. Soon, the adults come inside to share their findings as well as Isaiah's past whereabouts at an abandoned facility on the Isle of Skye. The first Templar team sent after him later joined him in his mission. The second team reported that he left the facility and traveled to Sweden to search for the prong. Victoria tries to assemble a jet to take them to Uppsala but Monroe responds to not trusting Abstergo completely. Implying Grace's findings, Monroe tries to have Victoria admit with the Instruments' infiltration.

However, Grace admits to her findings, much to Monroe's annoyance, to Victoria along with Isaiah's note. Victoria reads the note and ultimately agrees that using Abstergo jets will attract too much attention. They all discuss on who is going to Sweden and decide Griffin will take Owen, Grace, and Natalya while Javier and David will stay behind due to not being protected by the shield. Victoria make plans for a commercial flight to Västerås for the four of them but tells the kids to rest especially after their simulations.

Monroe and Victoria tells the kids that they are proud of them before he leaves to cook them dinner. While they wait for Monroe's meal, they all discuss the issue of how the Templars created the Instruments. However, Victoria admits that they are not while Griffin states that the Instruments are an extreme version of the Templars. With this, Victoria ends her meal and heads out of the room. After some silence, they keep eating but Monroe mentions that the Assassins are not exactly without fault. From mentioning Ezio Auditore da Firenze's near destruction of Constantinople, Shay Cormac's defection, or Jack the Ripper being an Assassin.

Although Griffin retorts that Jack was not a true Assassin, Natalya repeats his words of him being a true Assassin. Before leaving the conversation, Griffin affirms that Jack was taken down by the Assassins, who clean house. After the night, they all rest. In the next morning, Owen, Natalya, and Grace later join Griffin on their flight while Natalya apologizes to Griffin and tells him that he is a good Assassin. Accepting her apology, they all depart on the flight to Sweden.

Chapter Twenty-Four

They all arrive in Västerås where Griffin tries to ascertain where Grace's ancestor home used to be. Fortunately, Grace, with her Bleeding Effect, leads them to the location, where they find a newly constructed man-made spring. While Owen and Natalya stays behind, Griffin and Grace goes and nears closer to the spring's building, where they see the dagger's picture as the spring's logo for "Dagger Spring." Entering the building, they catch sight of the dagger on display and then talk to the receptionist. Although there was no tour due to being fairly new, the receptionist reveals that a recent American woman came by earlier.

Leaving the place, they reconvene with Owen and Natalya and tells them that Isaiah may have already found the dagger's location already. Realizing the danger, Griffin tells them to stay while he will retrieve the dagger when the employees leave. While they wait, the trio ask Griffin about his upbringing and enjoy a moment of ease. When the employees leave, Griffin leaves and promises to be back in a few minutes. Grace watches out for him until Griffin is out of her line of sight. However, they wait for awhile and start to worry.

Then, it goes haywire when they see helicopters and hear gunshots. Owen wants to go and safeguard Griffin but Grace holds him back. They soon see Griffin stumble while trying to go over the fence. However, Abstergo guards soon surround him. Grabbing the shovel Griffin gave him, Owen runs out and away from Grace, who tries to stop him from running.

Chapter Twenty-Five

Owen goes to help Griffin and Grace soon joins him. Attacking the guards, both of them incapacitate Griffin's attackers while the Assassin stumbles to climb the fence. Realizing Griffin has been hit, Grace and Owen moves him despite his pleas against it. Using her ancestor's memories, they make their way to Natalya and hides away from Isaiah and his men. Griffin tries to talk but Grace keeps him moving and hidden away from Abstergo guards. Griffin soon tells Owen to take his blades to Javier, who deserves them.

Stopping at a stream, Owen tries to keep Griffin awake. With Griffin non-responsive, Owen tries to do CPR on him but he realizes that Griffin has died. Still trying to do compressions, Owen is soon hugged by Natalya and Grace and then stops himself. After a brief moment of silence, Owen takes off his blade and equips it while Natalya grabs his phone. Grace reluctantly takes his wallet to make sure they can escape. However, they soon hear no helicopters or guns oddly enough. Although not wanting to leave him behind, Owen leaves with the girls as they make their way to their SUV.

However, Grace points out again that she hears no noise from Isaiah or the helicopters and grows cautious. Before they go back to the car, Grace tells them to wait much to Owen's dismay. After some time, they move to the SUV and try to enter but forget about the keys on Griffin's body. Arguing about Grace going back to Griffin, they are soon cornered and caught by Isaiah and his men. Although Isaiah tries to convince them that he is remaking the world for the better, Grace retorts that his reasoning is flawed. Isaiah states that he plans to spare them while Natalya asks where Sean is.

Grace begins to tremble when Isaiah asserts that he knows that she has the dagger. Telling Cole to check her, Isaiah watches while Grace recalls Cole being named Rothenburg from her last encounter. Sadly, Cole takes the dagger and hands it to Isaiah. Although Isaiah has achieved all the prongs, Owen exclaims that he has forgetten about the Ascendance Event, which will make the Trident obsolete. Taking the event into consideration, Isaiah orders Cole to line them up while he is given a gun. Owen still stands his ground while Isaiah proclaims to be Fenrir and is about to swallow the Moon and the Sun. Grace wonders where Owen obtained his will and where hers has gone while they stare at what looks to be their last stand.

Chapter Twenty-Six

Isaiah tells Sean that he is a disappointment as the boy has relived the memories multiple times against his will. Sean pleads not to go again while Isaiah threatens him. Sean has begun to experience the Bleeding Effect in terms of hallunications and nightmares but continues to go through the Animus. Before he could go through the Animus again, Cole enters the room but Sean sees her as an aggressive shieldmaiden. When the hallucination falls, Cole informs Isaiah of the dagger's location in Västerås but also of Owen, Natalya, Grace, and Griffin's arrival.

Sean is glad to hear that Cole found the dagger but Isaiah seems to be ambivalent to his words. When Sean asks to set free, Isaiah repeats the question back at him and then ignores his following pleas. Isaiah states that broken things are left behind before leaving the barn. Sean, making sure that was not another hallucination, checks around him and sees that everything is the same. He sees that he is worthless after all. Testing the restraints, he hears two helicopters leave and waits for an hour. More hours pass and his theory is correct. He is worthless to Isaiah. Trying to escape and pass the time, he then shouts for help. However, there is no response.

Yet, Sean soon sees a figure approach him and it is Styrbjörn. His ancestor tells him why he hangs but Sean admits that he is trapped. Styrbjörn tells him to break free but Sean says he cannot. Styrbjörn tells him to break free again and states that he is strong like him. Attempting again, Sean roars along with Styrbjörn, who soon leaves in pieces when the winds blows into the barn. Soon enough, Sean breaks free from the Animus. Pulling the Animus bits off him, Sean makes his way to his wheelchair and wheels outside, seeing the stone where Thyra and Styrbjörn married.

Moving quickly from the Abstergo guards, Sean finds his way to Poindexter. Entering inside the van, Sean knows that he is in Sweden and establishes communication with Abstergo. Connecting to the Aerie facility, he reaches Victoria, who is astounded to hear him. Sean admits that he escaped Isaiah and that his head is not right. Victoria informs him of Griffin and his friends' location and tells Poindexter the coordinates. Leaving the barn, Sean is driven to their location while he asks if Victoria is a psychiatrist. With his voice breaking, he asks for her help.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Owen continues to argue against Isaiah and his plan but Isaiah then tells him about the simulation about his father. He admits that he manipulated it and almost tells him that his father agreed to the crime. However, Natalya tells him to stop but Isaiah reminds her about Mongolia and what Yanmei saw. He continues to blame her for Yanmei's death but Owen tells him to stop. Isaiah then taunts Grace about not being able to save David, to which Grace lunged at him. When Isaiah puts a pistol in her face, Grace lowers. Isaiah goes towards Owen and mocks him again about his father's culpability and how he was a criminal after all.

Although Owen tries to deny it, all of his beliefs are shot down internally as he realizes that his mother and grandparents were right and he becomes somewhat lost. While Isaiah backs up and points his gun at Owen, he stops upon hearing a vehicle incoming close. Owen grabs Natalya and Grace and pulls them back while the vehicle stops right between them and Isaiah. When the van's doors open, Sean tells them to climb inside and then tells Poindexter to drive. Dodging bullets, they drive away while Victoria speaks to them. They tell her that Griffin was killed by Isaiah's men and with a pause, Victoria tells them that she is chartering a jet.

Owen informs her that he told Isaiah about the Ascendance Event and she tells that they will be preparing for Isaiah's attack. After Victoria tells to go offline, Sean tells Poindexter to go offline as he catches up with the group. He tells them how Isaiah has tortured him with both the Animus and the Trident and how he broke out. Before long, Poindexter drives them to the jet where they board and Sean says his goodbyes to Poindexter. After the crew and the staff comfort and dress them, they all start to rest.

Upon landing, they meet with Victoria, who welcomes them back and briefly hugs Sean. On another helicopter, they all fly to the Aerie and arrive to meet Monroe, David, and Javier. Feeling the space from Griffin's absence, they all discuss Sean goinginto the same memory the rest have gone. Despite Victoria's objections, Sean agrees to go while Monroe will be diligent to check on his behavior. Victoria soon offers them a choice with the upcoming attack from Isaiah to walk away. Owen first admits to not walk away, with Natalya and the rest following next. Looking at Javier, Owen undid the straps on the hidden blade and shows him.

Javier feels unworthy of the hidden blade but Owen admits that Griffin wants him to have his blade and that is his choice on what to do with it. Victoria ignores the weapon and tells them to help with the defense plan.

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Victoria explains that the odds are against them with his mind-controlled Templar agents. David and Javier add that they can prepare like the Viking simulation and take down as many of his men like Östen and Thorvald. Planning for a helicopter attack and mobile, they plan to close the roads and lay traps in the forest. Together, they covered the helipad above with debris so no helicopter can land. Monroe uses a chainsaw to block the roads quickly enough while the others leave traps in the forest. Javier soon uses M-44 cyanide bombs as another measure to deter men from climbing the mountain to the Aerie.

Waiting for the attack, Sean comes through as he finished the collective unconscious. Monroe explains a helicopter will have men come down nonetheless and this will be the first problem. Owen suggests that they fight while Javier takes all of Griffin's remaining gear. Victoria also plans to use the garage as their base of operations. Preparing with their own inventory, Owen sees and finds weapons he could use while he soon joins the rest barricading the doors. After Monroe grabs the Animus core of the Ascendance Event, they all wait once more.

Soon, they hear helicopters and go to the main atrium. Owen and Javier go to the helipad against Monroe's warnings. Racing to the top, Owen tells Javier to count him down. With an EMP grenade, he rolls outside and throws it at the helicopter. Dodging bullets, he rolls back towards Javier and see that they hit it. Going back down, the helicopter starts to crash in front of the atrium. However, it becomes nearer to the windows as Victoria tells them to run. Making their way to the garage, the helicopter crashes into the atrium with its blade tearing up the building. Miraculously, they all survive with Owen dodging its blade right over his head.

With Abstergo guards breaching, Owen and Javier make their way to the garage while Monroe reprimands them. They all wait for the ground troops while Owen holds his last EMP grenade. Upon first sight, Owen throws his grenade while he and Javier fight the Templars with every ounce of what their Bleeding Effects can offer. Although Natalya and Monroe are struggling, Owen and Javier soon face another wave of troops. When a wave breaks through Victoria and the Collins' door, Monroe tells them to retreat. Owen sees a losing battle and he has not yet seen Isaiah.

Instantly, Isaiah walks in with the Trident and tells his troops to finish them. Sean quickly shouts and challenges Isaiah. While Isaiah begins to mock him, Sean asserts his challenge again and states that he knows what Isaiah fears. Owen soon joins Sean but Isaiah uses the fear prong and bangs the Trident to the ground. Soon, Owen and the others are overwhelmed with their strongest fear. Yet, Owen, knowing that the truth of his father's actions are now irrevelant, begins to brave through the visions and understands what Minerva meant. It was not a shield but a method to counteract the Trident.

Accepting what his father may have done, Owen opens his eyes and sees the Trident. Calling out to his friends, he tells them to accept their fears. One by one, they march towards Isaiah who uses the Trident again. Although his light offers them all a place in his new Earth, Owen recalls the dog and rejects the devotion waves the Trident emitted. The rest follows while Isaiah uses the Trident once more and puts Owen's mind in an abyss. Owen sees Isaiah offering him a rope back at the Summit. Owen still declines and takes his own path on his own will. Owen breaks through as he realizes that he is a few yards away.

Instantly, Owen goes to attack Isaiah with all his memories from Varius and Zhang Zhi but Isaiah fights them all with the Trident itself. Soon, Javier, David, Grace, and Natalya join him. Although Isaiah fights well, the group counters every move as their enemy begins to tire. While Victoria, Monroe, and the Abstergo agents watch the challenge play out. Before long, Isaiah begins to feel every punch and kick and loses the Trident. When Isaiah reaches for the Trident, Javier waits for him with the hidden blade and kills him swiftly. Victoria tells them to fall back while she makes her way to the Trident.

Natalya grabs it first but Victoria tells her to give it to her. Monroe explains that she cannot take it from her while Natalya looks to Owen and tells Victoria that this is not what Minerva wanted. Altogether, all of six of them grab the Trident while Owen feels a surge of power race throughout his body as he feels different. Then, he hears Minerva telling him that she will do what she should have done. Soon, he and the others feel the power in the Trident grow stronger and the pulsating growing harder and harder.

Soon, the power is released in a shock wave and the Trident is apparently rendered into a piece of metal. They let go and the Trident falls to the ground. Victoria asks what they have done while Natalya tells her that they saved the world.

Epilogue

A car soon drives Grace and David back to their home, as Victoria stands by her promise of the Templars leaving them all in peace. Upon arrival, Grace reminds David not to tell their parents anything of what happened. Entering their home, they are both welcomed by their mom as Grace smells the fresh banana bread baking. Natalya is soon dropped off at her grandparents' home, where they ask her what happened to the program. She tells them that it was temporary and it was over. Her grandfather states that she is too good for them but Natalya reassures them that they do not have to worry anymore.

Owen is dropped off a bit away from home to think about his response to his family. He decides to be honest, which was to search the truth of his father and how he did not find anything. Although Monroe offered, Owen had declined, knowing it would hold too much power over him. At the door, he took a deep breath and knocked when it would not opened. He was home. Meanwhile, Javier is alone in his room after hours of his mom calming down. Despite his family's hounding, they are just glad to have him home. With Griffin's blade, he places in a box underneath his bed. He also has a number Monroe gave him and tears it up before remembering it, waiting for the right moment.

Sean sits in a waiting room and is brought into Victoria's office. Victoria asks him if he still has visual hallucinations this week. Sean responds that it has only been auditory ones but they are not feasible. Although he admits of not meditating, Victoria states that he will recover to go back into the Animus for his prosthetics. Sean states that he is not in a hurry. Victoria is glad to hear him becoming his old self but Sean mentions that he is going to be better. Elsewhere, Monroe has disappeared again, taking the core and the remains of the Trident. He believes there are more secrets to be found in both the Trident and the kids' DNA. However, for now, he leaves them to rest and their freedom.