Chapter 3
Moonlight Intruder
"I don't mean to make a fuss, but I don't think it's very fair. I mean I have no problem with the rising prices of high grade vegetables, since they're usually only purchased by the wealthy," the girl said to her.
"So what if they are?" questioned Sora.
"But raising the cost of sprouts, a staple side of the most underprivileged, seems to be incredibly unfair. Wouldn't you agree?" she asked them.
"If that seems like the case, I doubt we'd have the right answer, when you threaten to have my friends killed. And that's something I can't forgive," he remarked.
Ikaruga had to agree, as she grabbed the dart and threw it back.
"I would have asked you, but you've never had to eat sprouts," the girl said to her.
"At least tell us who you are," Sora interjected.
"Oh, my sincerest apologies. My name is Yomi, and from what Homura told me, your name is Sora. I must admit that I had no idea that someone like you could be rather dashing, even in clothes that seem strange for someone who's a shinobi," remarked Yomi.
Sora wasn't sure what to think, but he turned to Ikaruga, while he stood prepared for battle.
"Get Asuka out of here, Ikaruga. I'll handle her," he hissed.
"I'm also surprised to see you wielding some kind of giant key, even though you treat it like a sword," smirked Yomi.
Then without warning, she unleashed her Shinobi Kekkai, entrapping everyone inside of it.
"That's it! You'll regret this!" he snapped.
"Hold on, Sora! We need to know why she's here," called Ikaruga.
"Ah, straight to business, I see. Aren't you the daughter of one of Japan's wealthiest businessmen?" Yomi asked her prey.
"What does it matter to you?" questioned the dark haired girl.
"You were raised in a loving home with parents who lavished you with loving affection, and bought you everything your heart desired. It must have been nice. You're a lucky girl. You lead a privileged life in want for nothing," glowered her opponent.
"Sora, please be careful," warned Asuka.
"You two stand back and let me deal with her," Ikaruga said.
"Why?" questioned Asuka.
"Because she's made it perfectly clear that I'm the one she's after," she answered.
Suddenly, they saw Yomi's dart shooter vanish, and a massive sword appeared in her hand. As she did, Ikaruga changed into her shinobi outfit, which surprised Sora.
"Didn't expect that," he admitted to Asuka.
"I wish it didn't come to this, but you've left me with no choice. Now, prepare yourself to fight!" cried Ikaruga as she drew her sword.
Without hesitation, Yomi unleashed what looked like a blade beam at ikaruga, which she tried to block, but caused some of her outfit to rip apart. She quickly blocked a killing blow with her sword, making Asuka worried, but Sora knew that this was her fight.
"She's stronger than I thought," she admitted.
"Underestimate me, did you? It's a shame that money couldn't buy you all that power," sneered Yomi, as she struck again.
But Ikaruga jumped out of the way, and swung a powerful two handed blow. But her blonde antagonist made her sword vanish, and fired a burst of flame from what looked like a powerful arm cannon at her. All that remained of Ikaruga was a black bikini, and her boots.
"THAT'S IT!" shouted Sora, and he lunged at Yomi in a blind fury.
"You dare to interfere!? Then you will share her humiliation!" snapped Yomi, preparing herself for battle once more.
(Here we go with Sora's confrontation with Yomi of the original Hebijo Team, so play The Only Thing I Know For Real from Metal Gear Rising, Revengeance for this battle)
But she barely got the chance to defend herself, even as Sora used everything he had to try and bring her down.
"Show me a good time, Sora!" she said to him.
"Memories broken
the truth goes unspoken
I've even forgotten my name
I don't know the season
or what is the reason
I'm standing here holding my blade
A desolate place (Place)
Without any trace (Trace)
It's only the cold wind I feel
It's me that I spite
as I stand up and fight
The only thing I know for real
There will be blood-shed
The man in the mirror nods his head
The only one left
Will ride upon the dragon's back
Because the mountains don't give back what they take
Oh no
There will be blood-shed
It's the only thing I've ever known
(Epic instrumental followed by a guitar solo as Yomi and Sora continue their battle, even as they unleash their strongest attacks against each other, leaving Ikaruga surprised that their battle is more intense than they realized)
Losing my identity
Wondering have I gone insane
To find the truth in front of me
I must climb this mountain range
Looking downward from this deadly height
And never realizing why I fight"
Although Yomi was taken aback by this newcomer, she had no idea that Sora was far stronger than her, until he quickly forced him back.
"I'm a bit surprised that whoever your boyfriend is, he does care a great deal about you, but the way you wield that key-sword in anger isn't very becoming of a good ninja like you," she admitted.
"It's called a Keyblade, Yomi. And who are you to judge someone regardless of their upbringing? It doesn't matter to anyone who was born rich or a commoner. Someone like me can offer compassion to others, as well believe in the magic of friendship. That's why I refuse to let the darkness take away what I cherish most, because I believe them. But what you did to Ikaruga makes me so mad, that it might compromise my own morality, and become my own worst enemy," remarked Sora, as he stood between Ikaruga and the other kunoichi.
"There's no such thing as compassion or friendship. There's only power, and my judgment is far greater than your own," scoffed Yomi.
"Even if someone's born to a family, regardless of their upbringing, it doesn't matter to me at all. We make our own destiny, rather than command it freely. So understand this. I fight… for my family, just as they do, because I'm a special kind of commoner who fights for the happiness of many different people," Sora said bravely.
Yomi was taken aback by what she heard, but decided that enough was enough. However, she inched herself closer to Sora, and did something that no one would expect. She kissed his cheek.
"Next time we see each other, you'd best be ready for our next meeting. But understand that you will not interfere in my next round with Ikaruga," she said.
Then she soon struck off.
"Come back here!" yelled Sora, as he charged after her again.
But Yomi vanished, and the Kekkai did as well, just as Ikaruga reverted back to her uniform. Enraged and frustrated at letting Ikaruga get hurt, Sora swung his Keyblade furiously in all directions.
"Where are you? Don't you dare hide from me! Show yourself!" he cried out.
Although Asuka was worried about Ikaruga's well being, she looked at Sora, her eyes filled with fear for him.
"Sora, please, stop it! She's gone now!" she cried out, rushing towards him and wrapping her arms around him.
This made Sora stop in his tracks, and he lowered his Keyblade, just as Ikaruga walked up to him as well.
"How could she? How could Yomi defeat you so easily, and say such horrible things to you?" he asked with an icy venom in his voice.
"It doesn't matter now. She's gone for now," replied Ikaruga.
Although Asuka stepped back, Sora turned slowly away from them.
"Forgive me," he said somberly.
But Ikaruga ran up to him and hugged him.
"It's alright, Sora. Even though you didn't like how she insulted my upbringing, that doesn't mean you shouldn't let anger cloud your judgment," she assured him.
Nodding slowly, Sora returned the embrace, making Asuka feel relieved that her friend cared about him, as well as acknowledge his feelings, but she too hugged him as well.
"Even though I couldn't do anything, I'm glad you chose to protect Ikaruga, even after she was defeated," she admitted.
"Asuka, about what I said to Yomi. I may have been born a commoner who was gifted with the power to wield the Keyblade, and although I try hard to protect the people from the darkness, the munny that I've collected from defeating many Heartless and helping people is what I consider as my own way of protecting them. So I want to promise you something. Like I said, I'll always fight for my family. Even though I come from another world, far away, I sense that you and I are more alike than any of us could imagine, and I can tell that you feel the same way as I do. That's why we both want to protect the people we cherish with all our hearts. In other words, I truly love you, Asuka. More than you could imagine. Even after seeing someone on the side of darkness die by Sephiroth's hand, it motivated me to ensure that you don't share that person's fate. That's the reason I'll fight to keep you safe, and I know that you'll do the same for me. Got it?" he explained to her.
"You know I will, Sora," replied Asuka, who was both surprised and happy to hear it from someone who was very much like her.
For the first time in his life, Sora could finally be at ease around someone who shared most of his characteristics.
"Still, even though I try hard to be like my own grandfather, you've also given me that same motivation, and that's something I also love about you. I may not care about whether people are born rich or commoners, because I can also see that you really are a special kind of guy. Your courage, kindness, and caring spirit is what defines you for who you are. That's more than enough reason to fight for the people I cherish most. Also, if the two of us do get married later on, and have kids of our own, I'm sure we'll be wonderful parents to them," she said.
"Thank you," sighed Sora, as he gave her a kind grin.
Asuka returned the smile, then she leaned forward and placed her lips on Sora's, sharing a kiss with him. Ikaruga smiled at them, as a small tear rolled down her cheek.
"I'm happy for both of you," she murmured.
Sometime later, after picking up the essential necessities for Master Hanzo's big welcome party, they headed back to the academy, but Asuka was still upset about how she hesitated to fight, but was happy that Sora bravely stepped forth to confront Yomi in battle. Finally, Sora decided to break the ice.
"Hey, Ikaruga, I know that I'm still feeling sore about how Yomi said that you came from a wealthy family, but what did she mean by that?" he asked her.
"If another shinobi want's information on us, all they have to do is look it up," she replied.
"Good point, but I bet there's all kinds of info on you, since you're from a famous and wealthy family," agreed Asuka.
Suddenly, Sora stopped in his tracks, causing both his new girlfriend and Ikaruga to look at him with concern in their eyes.
"Girls, you go on ahead. I need to be alone for a little while," Sora said to them.
"Are you sure, Sora?" questioned Ikaruga.
"Yeah, and don't worry, I'll be back at the academy shortly," he replied.
"Okay, we'll see you there, Sora," Asuka said kindly to him, then gave him a gentle peck on the cheek.
Once they were gone, and Sora was now by himself, he looked deep within his heart.
"Master Eraqus, Sailor Galaxia, Nehelenia, I need your guidance," he said.
An aura of light surrounded his body, and soon, the spirits of those who had passed on appeared before him.
"What is it?" they asked.
Sora turned and looked at Nehelenia.
"From what I can tell you, I fought against a girl called Yomi, who claims to despise those that are rich, even after she defeated one of my friends in battle. I don't know what to do if I face her in battle again," he explained.
"Sora, you'll always find a way, because you saw good in the hearts of most of the Black Moon Clan, when you and your friends visited Usagi's world. That's why you were gifted with the power to ensure that you'd always make a difference, no matter where you'd go, and your friends will always cheer for you with their hearts," assured Eraqus.
"That's right. And even though Nehelenia and I may not have gotten our second chance, thanks to Sephiroth and Chaos, we'll always be there to guide you on the right path, and help you make the right decisions," agreed Galaxia.
"Yes, even though you managed to defeat Sephiroth for the third time, and Aiden almost succeeded in killing you, we knew that there was so much for you to do in the realm of the living, and even your father, the man whom you despise, said that the time of your death was too soon. Even if you can't forgive him for leaving you on the day you were born, you must understand that he wants you to keep on living life to the fullest. Both Eraqus and Xehanort understand that, and so does my half-sister, Queen Serenity. The same can also be said for my step-niece, the princess herself. Everyone has the right to do their best, no matter how bleak it may be," finished Nehelenia.
"I know what you mean, but like I said to those girls in the Goddess' Dormitory in Koshi's world. I don't want to hear any bullcrap about how someone refuses to see the light of redemption, even if they're on the side of darkness. It sickens me to the core of my being so much that it just makes me just want to do something really terrible, that I'll regret it for the rest of my life, just like when I killed Galaxia, the Legendary Sailor Guardian who fought against Chaos, succumbed to his influence after he was sealed within her, and through his manipulation merged with me, thus drawing out Vanitas so that it would lead to our transformation into Chaos Vanitas, and gave rise to Omega: the Ultimate Weapon who'd return all the worlds to Kingdom Hearts, until Sailor Moon and I stopped their fused form, Omega Galaxia," replied Sora.
"That was the past, Sora. Even after defeating Sephiroth once more, you found closure with them, so that they could truly rest in peace, but they too have learned to travel from the netherworld of Kingdom Hearts, just as Pyrrha, Xehanort, Demande, Saphir, Queen Serenity, and I did. As Artemis and Diana said, you will never truly be alone, as long as you believe that everyone you cherish will always live on in your heart," explained Eraqus.
"Yes, you saved the Specter Sisters from the darkness, even after Rubeus banished them for their final failure, and now they're part of Kenton's crew, on his newly modified ship, the Ark. You also saved me as well, even though I was about to do the most terrible thing, by taking Sailor Venus as my queen, if Sailor Moon still continued to refuse my offer, after you chose to try and avenge Saphir," agreed Demande.
"And like Jaune, you managed to beat Cinder, defeated Salem, and even avenged Vale, Vacuo, Atlas, and Haven, thus paving the way to victory. That proves that you still have the power to do what's right, and to protect what you cherish most of all," added Pyrrha, who appeared in spectral form.
"Yeah. You might be right. And even if I do show respect, it's due to the fact that I cherish everyone and everything, no matter which world I visit," he said to them.
"Should you ever need our council again, Sora, look to our spirits who live on in your heart," replied Saphir.
"Thank you, Saphir. I promise not to let any of you down, no matter what," smiled Sora.
After their spirits returned to his heart, Sora soon set off back to Hanzo Academy. Sometime later, he met up with Ikaruga, who apologized to Kiriya for interacting with someone who was different from the people, and that she had to face punishment for disobeying him.
"That's not necessary, you didn't have any choice in the matter," he assured her.
"Sensei's right, Ikaruga. And believe me, I get how you feel. Even if any of the people greeted me, despite how I'm a stranger in a strange land, it doesn't matter at all. But, if it makes you feel any better, it's this. People who cause other people trouble should be put in their place, even if we don't know them, like those replicas who were disguised as the thugs you and your friends managed to defeat. However, it's time I told you something that haunted me for as long as I can remember. I saw Sephiroth kill Nehelenia right in front of me, and through all the pain and anger I felt, I felt like I had to avenge her, even after all the terrible things she'd done after she gave herself over to fear of becoming aged and deformed, which in turn transformed all of the dreams she had into an unending nightmare. But a certain enchantress who saw darkness in a young prince's heart once said that true beauty is always found within one's heart. That's when I knew that her retainers were trying to help her stay true to the light. Then after seeing her capture Mamoru and compromise Chibiusa's existence, and Vassago killed the man that Usagi loved, Vanitas was unleashed from within. But all of my friends came to my side and returned me to the light, and we tried to convince Nehelenia to return to the light, only for Sephiroth to kill her and compromise Vassago's existence the same way she did. Like I said, that look on Nehelenia's face when she died was what gave me the drive to avenge her. Even if I'm afraid of losing the people I cherish most of all, that same fear is what gives me the drive to continue moving forward, no matter how many twists and turns are on the path ahead of me. And you can do the same thing. Whatever that girl said to you is nothing but bullcrap, so when we see her again, we'll be ready for her," explained Sora.
"This young man's right," agreed Hanzo who arrived.
Everyone was surprised to see Asuka's grandfather as well.
"Here's the thing: I can sense a strong form of wisdom lingering in his heart, and that's what he considers his greatest strength," he continued.
Ikaruga nodded slowly, and turned to Sora.
"You're right, Master. But even though Sora did his best to avenge my defeat, I feel that I'm responsible for my failure to heed Senei's orders," she argued.
"No you're not. And Ikaruga, it's like you and I told Asuka. You need to stop with that negative bullcrap. Trust me. That same negativity is what will allow the darkness to take advantage of our weaknesses, so that it can destroy us, or worse turn us all into Heartless. Also, I'm really sorry for undermining your position as a leader, but you're a great shinobi. Not to mention very beautiful," countered Sora.
"I'm afraid Sora's argument is extremely valid, my friend. So I'm going to acknowledge his judgment," agreed Kiriya.
Sometime later, Ikaruga was giving Hanzo a massage, due to the aches and pains he felt throughout his entire being. Sora however, decided to keep quiet about it, as he leaned against the wall with his arms over his chest, and his eyes closed as he began thinking about his duel with Yomi. Katsuragi wanted a turn after her friend was finished, but Asuka wasn't sure why her grandfather wanted her friends to alleviate the tension in his being. She was about to ask if it was alright to take over, but Ikaruga assured her she had things under control. Ultimately, she agreed to let her take over, and soon, Asuka began finishing what she started. The others watched, knowing that they were indeed family. Kiriya soon arrived in a burst of smoke, apologizing for holding up dinner. As night fell, the two gentlemen spoke about a phone call from Ikaruga's parents about what had happened before. At the same time, Katsuragi was shocked to learn that they had been attacked by Yomi who was an evil ninja, and wanted to know why.
"From what I can tell you, even though I saw that she was pretty, she was rude, arrogant, and had a strong hatred for people who were born rich, and had no regard for commoners. Worst of all, she was very powerful. And even though Asuka was aware of how she'd be no match for her, after Ikaruga was defeated, I chose to avenge her defeat, as well protect them. That's why my destiny is to fight the darkness, as well as find a way to save people who are lost in it. But, despite what happened, even though she managed to bring our battle to a stalemate, she said that the next time we'd meet, I'd stay out of her next battle with Ikaruga," explained Sora.
But Katsuragi rested her hand on Sora's shoulder and gave him a friendly smile.
"Somehow, I can sense your unwavering conviction to protect us from the darkness, Sora. And yet, you really do remind me of Asuka so much. But, I want to know why you refused to back down and fight her, just like I would," she said to him.
"There are three reasons as to why that's the case, Katsu. 1: I don't want to lose my friends to the darkness. 2: If I did, then the seal that's keeping Vantias locked away in my heart will break, and give him the chance to break free, just so he can wreak his vengeance on the people around me. And 3: Whether you'd like to hear it or not, my enemies have always told me that my friends will always be my Achilles Heel. In other words, my greatest weakness. As for the fourth unofficial reason, seeing you die in front of me will cause me to completely lose myself to darkness, thus granting Vanitas that chance at escaping. And if he killed all of you, I'd start to feel responsible for your deaths. Just like how I was responsible for helping the Death Busters open the portal to let their ultimate master, Pharaoh 90 into this plane of existence, so that he could bring dark silence to all the worlds. Also, whenever I go off on patrol, whether it's with Kiriya's approval or not, it's to ensure that I keep the people safe from the darkness," he stated firmly.
The others were surprised to hear it, but Katsuragi nodded her understanding and pulled him into a gentle hug.
"Sora, I want to promise you something. No, we want to promise you something. If we see you about to lose yourself completely to darkness, and you do transform into this Vanitas, we'll find a way to wear him down so that you can return to the light. That's something that Asuka can accept wholeheartedly. After all, she did tell me about the confession you made to her, and we fully acknowledge it with respect. Also, Ikaruga told us about the pain you'd endure after Nehelenia died by Sephiroth's hand, so we'll always stand together as friends. Actually, as a family. You're part of our family, Sora, just as we're a part of yours," she said to him.
"Katsu's right, Sora. Nobody is ever truly alone. But hearing you talk about Vanitas, does scare me a lot. But like she said, we'll always find a way to bring you back from the darkness," agreed Hibari.
"Yes, there's truth in Hibari's judgment, Sora. We'll always be in your heart, forever," added Yagyu.
Sora thanked them, until Kiriya asked Ikaruga to have a word with her in private. When they were gone, Hanzo soon began chatting with his granddaughter's friends about their strong bond, which Sora had to agree on. Hibari had to agree to that, even though Yagyu believed that she had to make sure she stayed out of trouble, which did make her somewhat annoyed.
"Hmm… you know what? You and Yagyu are sort of like sisters, Hibari. It kind of parallels Hotaru's friendship with my sister, Xion, and they also act a bit like sisters as well. Sure they were used by the darkness back then, but they've also become my greatest friends, which in turn gives me even greater strength. Also, I want to promise Yagyu this. If you're ever in trouble, and she's not able to reach you in time, I'll always find a way to protect you, thanks to the power of respect. Sometimes the best thing any warrior can do is look deep within themselves. It's one of the many trials that we have to face head on, with no fear or hesitation. Often we see things that we don't like, but aspects like these are never set in stone, thanks to this philosophy I'm about to teach all of you. The decisions we make, and the actions that follow us, are a reflection of who we are," explained Sora.
Asuka was surprised. She might not have expected it, but she could also sense that Sora was sort of like her grandfather in his youth, which impressed him. Then, Hanzo turned and looked proudly at him.
"My granddaughter told me about your confession of love, even after your encounter with that evil ninja you fought off. I foresee that one day, my great-grandchildren will be just as powerful as you, as well as inherit your ability to wield a Keyblade that symbolizes their willingness to stand above those who wield the darkness," he said.
Even though the matter was settled between them, Ikaruga received bad news about her brother, Murasame, who had disappeared, despite how they no longer saw eye to eye. She was told not to apologize, due to her ties to them. Nodding slowly, she was about to head back to her friends, when she looked behind her, only to see nothing, just as Katsuragi was about to let her in. Ikaruga told her that she thought she felt something, causing the rest of her friends to rush out. Thinking that it was another enemy, Sora readied his Keyblade and stood searching the corridor for any intruders.
"Well, I don't see anybody," Asuka said.
Sora relaxed a bit, then rested his weapon on his shoulder.
"I'm sorry, it must have been my imagination," sighed Ikaruga.
But Sora pulled her into a comforting hug.
"Don't be sorry, Ikaruga. Even though you suffered a serious defeat, I refuse to let you go through the same crap again," he assured her.
Ikaruga hugged him back, then suggested that they all head to bed in the next half hour. Sometime later, as Ikaruga rested in the washroom, she remembered how she was introduced into the family, despite her brother's biting words, and her father's warnings, but she remembered that dark glare in his eyes, and how she was hateful of her. She even remembered how she inherited Hien, which caused him to go into a blind rage. After her bath, she slowly walked up the stairs, with Sora following after her. She was about to open the door, when she heard his voice from behind him.
"Oh, Sora. Please don't scare me like that again," she said.
"Listen, I was worried about you, and wanted to know why you've been acting differently," he explained.
"It's my brother, Murasame. Ever since I was taken in by my new family, and became the wielder of Hien, all he's ever felt was hatred and contempt for how I 'stole what was rightfully' his," Ikaruga told him.
Sora listened intently to Ikaruga's story about her past, and it soon began to make sense to him. After she finished, they heard the sound of items being rustled around, and rushed inside her room. There stood Murasame, who heard them come in.
"Brother, it's you," she gasped.
"That's Ikaruga's brother?" Sora asked in shock.
"Long time no see," he said with a dark grin.
"Brother, what are you doing here?" Ikaruga asked.
"Why do you keep calling me that? It's not like you're my actual little sister," scoffed Murasame.
"What do you think you're doing with Hien?" she questioned him.
"What's it matter to you? This sword belongs to my family. Which means I can do whatever I want with it," he answered venomously.
'No, you cannot. Hien was given to me by our father, and…" countered Ikaruga, but she stopped herself.
"By our father, huh? Wow, you've sure got some mouth, guttersnipe. You're not a member of our real family. Dad wrote me off, when he realized I would never be a shinobi. That's fine, but I'm not gonna let you take this sword from me. I can't stand the thought of a family heirloom in the hands of an outsider like you! If you hadn't been adopted, Hien would have been mine someday!" glowered Murasame.
"That's enough! Why don't you get your facts straight, before I do something terrible in front of your sister, you jerk!?" snapped Sora, who refused to let it continue.
"And who the hell do you think you are!? You're not part of my family, so stay out of it!" Murasame snapped back at him.
"I'm known as Sora. And to be honest, all that I see in your heart is nothing but hatred and jealousy for Ikaruga, because she became that blade's inheritor. Even if she felt ashamed of how things didn't go your way, it's because your blind by those negative emotions, and they've changed you into a monster. I know that you're hurting. Ikaruga told me about what happened before I met you, and as her friend, I understand how she felt. So I'm gonna ask you just this once. Return Hien to your sister, or I'll challenge you one warrior to another, and to the victor, goes Hien," explained Sora.
"If you want Hien, then you'll have to take it. But that traitor's aware of that fact," snarled Murasame, as he felt the darkness slowly envelop him.
"Somehow, I knew you'd say that," remarked Sora, and he summoned his Keyblade.
(Play The Duel from Devil May Cry 5 for this fierce yet intense battle between Sora and Murasame)
"Facing someone who's training to be a shinobi with that kind of weapon will be an interesting challenge," smirked Ikaruga's brother.
"And facing someone who's bound by darkness, will be just like how I fought against Prince Demande back on Usagi's world," remarked Sora.
The two boys looked at each other, until Murasame gained a malicious smile.
"Prepare yourself, Murasame! This fight will decide the truth," Sora stated.
Nodding towards him, Murasame flicked Hien from it's sheath and unleashed a Shinobi Kekkai enshrouding them in another dimension.
"I won't lose to the likes of you, foolish boy!" he said.
Testing his resolve, Sora swung a mighty blow at his opponent, which Murasame blocked.
"Foolishness… is rushing in all you can do?" questioned the ex ninja.
They continued their battle, with Sora now knowing that he truly was going so far as to try and kill him, until Murasame struck back at him. Their blades collided in a fierce flurry of power. Sora sent a full volley of fire spells at Murasame, who quickly deflected them, until he retaliated with what looked like spectral blades. Their clash soon dragged on, even as Murasame tried to find a way to out fox Sora, and defeat him. But the spiky brunette still managed to outwit him, which in turn caused his foe's anger to rise even more. He soon summoned bolts of lightning from the sky, making Murasame dodge left and right so as to not get struck by the bolts.
"You're really starting to remind me of Dante's brother, Vergil, the wielder of Yamato, and the first born twin son of Sparda," Sora said to him as they continued their battle.
"After I kill you and Ikaruga, Hien will be mine, and I'll carve my own destiny with it," remarked Murasame, as they entered a brief bladelock.
They soon jumped back, and landed on opposite sides of the arena.
"It's just about time to finish this," he stated.
"That's right… Come on!" Murasame replied, and he soon transformed into what looked like a demonic form, that looked reptilian in nature.
As he did, Sora soon began channeling the unknown power that awakened following his brief brush with death at the hands of Hyena R. Droid, during their clash with Sailor Gamer, causing his eyes to turn crimson. They were now on even ground. Outside of the kekkai, Ikaruga prayed with all her heart, hoping that Sora would win, as she grew increasingly worried about him. Both adversaries were still clashing fiercely against each other, as Murasame grew increasingly madder by the minute. Suddenly, he saw his opponent's aura becoming increasingly darker and more malevolent.
"Prepare… TO DIE!" roared Murasame, and he flew about the arena at breakneck speed.
Dodging and weaving over him, as several spectral blades surrounded him, Sora knew that he had to prepare himself for what would come next. Casting a powerful shield spell, the blades struck against it instead of him, but did cause him some slight damage. He cast a healing spell on himself, then resumed his clash against Murasame. He now attacked more furiously than before, barely giving the other man time to block his attacks, which in turn caused his defenses to falter.
"Simba, come forth!" cried Sora.
"I'm here!" Simba said as he appeared.
At his beck and call, Sora stood firm, and with his enhanced powers, gave Simba the chance to unleash a mighty roar, causing serious damage to Murasame at full power. Quickly dismissing him, Sora lunged at Murasame again, and Murasame did the same, engaging in another fierce clash of blades as he reverted to normal. Sora unleashed his Ars Arcanum attack on Murasame further injuring him.
"You think killing Ikaruga will give you everything?" Sora questioned him.
"Ikaruga… means nothing to me!" roared Murasame.
Enraged at what he heard, Sora struck Murasame furiously, subduing him. But as he powered down from his enhanced state, Murasame struck at him with Hien, which Sora barely blocked, and was sent flying back towards the invisible wall, then collapsed to the ground.
"You think you know my pain?" he asked venomously.
"Of course I do. You really think Ikaruga would want you to become a monster?" Sora shot back as he stood up.
"A monster? I am Hien's rightful inheritor," sneered Murasame, as the kekkai crumbled around them, and returned them to reality.
"You're an inheritor of nothing. As much as I'd love to hear that story, I think it's about time we…' Sora said.
"...ended this," finished Ikaruga's brother.
"No! you will end nothing, Brother!" countered Ikaruga, and without a moment's notice, she reclaimed Hien and sheathed it.
Murasame turned sharply to confront him, shock and rage twisting at his features as he drew his other weapon, the chain sickle, but Sora knocked it out of his hand.
"Give it up, Murasame! You've lost!' he stated firmly.
"Then you will die where you both stand!" yelled Murasame, as he struck at them, only to fall into a trap door that opened below him.
All he could do was rant and rave about how he'd never acknowledge Ikaruga as his sister, as she soon shed a tear, while Sora prepared to go after him.
"Let him go, Sora. He may try to turn a new leaf if he's told to let go of his hatred, or he'll walk the road of the lost cause," she said to him.
Outside, Murasame clambered out of the sewer, swearing that he'd claim the sword that he never inherited, only to come face to face with Master Hanzo, who told him that he'd been watching his every move after he came to his school, and asked him to return to his concerned family. He tried to rebuke him about why he couldn't do that, until he truly claimed what was rightfully his.
"If you leave now, I will overlook your behavior. I happen to be an old friend of your Dad's. He told me that you're not cut out to be shinobi, but he's proud because you excel at something else. Business," explained Hanzo.
"My Dad said that?' Murasame asked in shock.
"You may not be the best shinobi, but I'm sure you'll be a brilliant businessman," he assured him, and walked away.
Murasame wanted to know his name, but Hanzo told him that it was better for him to not know who he was, but to see him as a wise elderly man who would go where his heart would take him, leaving him to ponder what to do next. Next day, Sora and the Hanzo girls were now training harder than ever before. Even though Ikaruga tried her best to encourage them, but sounded even stricter than before which made them feel less motivated. Finally, Sora and Katsuragi sensed something was bugging their friend. She tried to dismiss it, and assure them that she was alright, but Sora didn't believe it, until he heard them arguing about how they had to be better prepared, until he finally had enough.
"Hey! Cut it out, you two! Look, I get that you want us to be better, Ikaruga, but the longer you let your duty as a shinobi get to your head, the more likely you'll be killed by those evil ninjas, even if we do prepare ourselves for their next attack. Also, even though I'm a newbie, I've had plenty of experience fighting the Heartless longer than you could believe. I get that you're angry at Yomi for the way she defeated you, but the longer you dwell on it, the more likely you'll succumb to darkness and lose yourself to it, as Murasame almost did," Sora explained.
"You're right. I'm sorry, Sora. It's just, I keep feeling angry after what happened back then," replied Ikaruga.
"You're not a bad person, Ikaruga. In fact, you're a good person, but the longer you dwell on the past, the more likely you'll end up being turned into a Heartless. That's why I have something worth fighting for… My friends. No matter how far away they are, and even if they're in the realm of the living, or are in the afterlife, they'll always cheer me on. But sometimes, the greatest of evils aren't always in front of us, Ikaruga. Sometimes they're where we least expect them to be. In other words, our greatest enemy will always be ourselves," Sora stated firmly.
"I agree with Sora, Ikaruga. I say we take a little break and have some futomaki rolls that Asuka brought to us, courtesy of her grandpa," agreed Katsuragi.
Nodding slowly, Ikaruga relented, but noticed that Asuka's cheerfulness made her realize that she carried a part of Sora's spirit within her heart, and admitted that she'd make a far better chairman than she would, and even Hanzo agreed, taking note that there was so much eating away at her own heart.
"As much as I love my granddaughter, I'm horrified by her lack of skill. You are the only one who can, who has the talent and patience to lead that unruly bunch," he assured her,
"Well, thank you, but I'm so shaken up right now, that I'm not doing a very good job," replied Ikaruga.
"Did you forget? I chose to step up and fight off that evil ninja. So I promise you and Hanzo, that we'll all help Asuka become something more. Also, like I told his granddaughter several times before, no more thinking negatively. You have the fine makings of a great leader, but not if you squander it with anger and frustration. Darkness will always be your enemy, but when we work together, all of us, we are a family. We laugh, cry, hope, dream, and argue, and that in turn makes our bond stronger. Also, I don't love Asuka because she's Hanzo's descendant, I love her because she too will become her own kind of legendary shinobi, so that she can honor his memory even after he becomes one with Kingdom Hearts, which unites the worlds under something called the Sky of Destiny. Also, like Hanzo said, his great grandchildren will be very gifted, and may even carry on our legacy after we pass away and become one with Kingdom Hearts," Sora explained to her.
Nodding in agreement, Ikaruga saw that there really was truth within Sora's words, as well as wisdom that even rivaled Hanzo's. With her mind free of any stress and frustration, Ikaruga asked Kiriya if she and Sora would help Asuka with her summoning training. Asuka was about to protest, when she felt Sora's hand on her shoulder.
"I believe in you, Asuka. And so do the rest of your friends," he assured her.
The matter was settled as they set off for the waterfall. The training was difficult for her, as they performed water mediation, as a way of becoming one with the environment of the frog. Yet no matter how hard she tried, she was still uneasy around amphibians, as she cried out in fear. Her friends still had high hopes for her, as Sora stood firmly above them and looked more like a stoic master. As Asuka tried to tell them that she'd never be able to accept the frog as it's ally, Sora stopped her, and stood looking firmly into her eyes.
"If you don't overcome your fear, then the darkness will destroy you. You must face it, truly stare into it, then you will become stronger than that fear. Giving up on family is not the way of a hero. It's the way of the rookie, and you are no rookie, Asuka," he stated firmly.
Nodding slowly, Asuka tried, but still she squirmed about the frogs, and her uneasiness about them. Suddenly, Sora had come up with a devilishly crazy idea. He turned to Ikaruga and whispered something into her ear. Agreeing instantly, Ikaruga nodded. She told Asuka that she'd check on everyone's progress, and assured her that she'd be back. Once she was gone, Sora stood quietly, his expression stern and serious like Yen Sid's, when…
"Look out!" cried Ikaruga.
A large rock came falling towards her, as the frog landed on the rock. Horrified that the small animal would be killed, Asuka made a daring leap of faith, grabbed the frog, and landed with a loud kersploosh in the water. To her surprise, the rock she saw wasn't really a rock, it was a wooden ball with paper on it that resembled a rock at the bottom.
"Geez, Ikaruga! Why'd you go and scare me like that!?" she asked hurriedly.
"Sorry, but it's the only way I could get you to touch the little guy," replied Ikaruga.
"That's right. I gave Ikaruga an idea so that we could help you face your fears, Asuka. Besides, it was a test to see if you could truly cast aside your fear, and see that not all frogs are disgusting at all. " added Sora.
Asuka was surprised, but even though she was afraid of seeing it be crushed by the fake rock, her decision to save it had made her become more than she was, which made them see that she was no longer afraid. Taking a careful look at the frog, she saw that it looked cute, rather than disgusting.
"See? You faced your fear. And my promise is fulfilled. You see the good in anything just as I do, when I faced the Black Moon Clan of Nemesis back then. They came from a future where they had been branded as traitors and banished for their attempt at a coup, and even though some of their members were too steeped in darkness, there were those who had conflict in their hearts. A tiny spark of light that wanted to come out, by letting them know that they could start anew, and make up for the mistakes that they made from before," explained Sora.
With renewed clarity of purpose, and strength of heart, Asuka's latent power was unleashed, as she surged forward and swung her dual blades, cutting down all the bamboo trees that were around her. Everyone was amazed, but Sora was the happiest of all.
"Way to go, Asuka!" he cheered.
Then, Asuka landed near Sora, wrapped her arms around him, and shared a kiss with him. Kiriya asked what both Ikaruga and her friend did to help her overcome her fear. She explained that despite how her friend didn't like frogs that much, she admitted that Sora had come up with a plan to help her interact with it, by making it seem like the animal would be in danger of being crushed to death by a falling rock, causing her to save it by performing a leap of faith. That leap was what allowed her to let go of her fear. Kiriya was impressed. He knew that Ikaruga was truly a great leader, but she said that she was grateful to Sora for letting her know that not everyone should abuse their power as a leader. Even Hanzo agreed, as he assured her that they were like her own younger siblings, as well as gave Sora his blessing to be with his granddaughter.
"You earned the icing on the cake," Sora said to her.
"What's the icing on the cake?" Asuka asked him.
"You'll see… Why don't we head to the city later?" replied Sora.
But in the dark chamber, the girls of Hebijo all knelt before their master, as they listened to her orders.
"Consider it done," the green haired girl said.
"Yes, just leave them to us," agreed Mirai.
"Hehehehehehehehehe… Good. I will remain at Hebijo for now and see to it that we'll proceed with the second phase of our mission. I am sending my son, Nuno Harime, to assist in this task," replied Sephiroth, and he marched away.
On a skyscraper in Asakusa, Sora sat on the edge of that building, looking out into the sunset. As he looked at what was beyond the city, Asuka joined him, still dressed in her shinobi outfit, and she set her swords down on the ground and sat down next to him.
"This is a great spot… How'd you find it?" she asked.
"Here you go," he said, passing her turquoise colored bar on a stick.
"What is it?" wondered Asuka.
"It's sea-salt ice cream. Just try it and see how it tastes," he assured her.
Asuka nodded, then took a small but firm bite out of it.
"Oh wow, it tastes salty, but it's sweet," she said.
"But it's good, right?" replied Sora.
"Yeah, it is. But why'd you choose this flavor?" Asuka asked him.
"Roxas and Axel, they met on a clock tower in a different town on another world, and they shared ice cream after work," explained Sora.
He took a bite out of the ice cream as they sat down.
"This happens to be a favorite of theirs. And thanks to Roxas, it's my favorite too," he finished.
"Roxas and Axel?" Asuka asked curiously.
"Yep. They came to a place like this to eat ice cream on his first day with Organization XIII. After completing their first mission assigned to them by Isa's nobody, Saix, they had ice cream again, and called it the icing on the cake. The same can be said for when he did the same with Xion," he said.
"And now you've done the same thing he did for me," replied Asuka.
"That's not all. All of my other friends are now sharing sea-salt ice cream, on other worlds that have cities as well. You. me, Ikaruga, Katsuragi, Yagyu, and Hibari, you're all my friends. But you're something special, Asuka. Not because you're the granddaughter of a legend, but because you're part of a great legacy of shinobi that came and went before you. You and I both forge the way ahead with their full support, as well as make sure that they keep us in the here and now. Also, even though we've started to learn more about each other as the days passed, we even fought the Heartless together, and even managed to deal with some dangerous replicas that were disguised as hoodlums that wanted to cause trouble," he said to her.
"Sora. Even after you held your ground against that evil ninja, I could sense your conviction to protect Ikaruga. Do you think I could do the same thing as you do?" wondered Asuka.
"Of course you can," replied Sora.
But then Asuka slowly sidled up to him, and gently wrapped her arm around him.
"Hey, Sora, even though I never got a chance to say this after I overcame my fear of frogs, but I just want to thank you for believing in me. So, thank you, Sora. Also, even though you let Ikaruga know that she shouldn't let her duty cloud her judgment, by letting herself be consumed by stress and frustration, you really do remind me of my grandfather in his younger days. That's why, no matter how many obstacles stand in our way, no matter how many times your enemies believe that darkness will win, it's because you won't allow it to happen. So I'll tell you something as well. From this day onward, I choose to trust my own heart, and prove to everyone that I'm strong because of the people I cherish most of all. And I hope that you accept someone who walks the road to light as you do. Because, I truly love you, Sora, more than anything. I also want you to know that wherever you go, I'm always with you, just as my friends are with me. I also want to fight for your happiness, just as you'll fight for mine. If it's okay with everyone," she said.
"I know you will, Asuka. And I'll also fight for your happiness as well," agreed Sora.
Then they shared a gentle kiss with each other. Then, sometime later, they were now in Asuka's room, as Sora lay peacefully in bed, making Asuka see that he truly looked peaceful when he slept.
"Just so you know, we'll be heading to someplace far away, for even more intense training later," she said, and she rested her head near him, and fell asleep too.
