Authors Note: Hey guys. Once again, thank you for the support on the story. It means a lot to me.
So, school has officially started. It's not so bad right now, but I know it will get harder. I was able to get this out for you all so I hope you enjoy it.
Also, just wanted to apologize for some of the spelling errors in the last chapter, but I did give you a warning that there would be some. Guys, cut me some slack. It's tough to find all the errors in 10K word chapters, even if I triple check them.
Anyway, I am excited for this chapter. The last chapters fight scene with Wardes was short, but it was more of a preview for this chapter. It's going to be intense, so I hope I did an alright job at it.
Warning: There will be some grammar and spelling errors. SORRY!
Disclaimer: I don't own anything.
A Heart in the Void
Chapter 13
It was the evening of the next day that Roxas found himself watching the sunset, leaning against a rail near the side of a cliff. It was taking a lot of self-control to not just storm over to Wardes's room and rip him a new one, but if he did that, they would lose their chance to get Henrietta's letter.
Still…
It didn't mean he had to like this plan. There were a lot of risks involved, one of them being the danger that Louise would be put in.
Guiche was right next to him, watching the sunset as well. He was unusually quiet for some reason. Sneaking a glance at the boy, Roxas noticed that there was a red hand-shaped print the side of his face.
"Uh, Guiche?" Roxas started, causing the boy to look over at him. Guiche had anime tears rolling down his cheeks. "What happened to you?"
"Oh Roxas, it was dreadful. I found this really gorgeous young woman and…"
That's when Roxas tuned him out. When Guich would start drawling on about some girl, there was no telling when he was going to stop, especially if the woman rejected him in some way. Turning his attention back to the sunset, Roxas could not help but grind his teeth in anticipation. Another risk to this plan was making this diversion look realistic. If Wardes got even one whiff that Matilda had betrayed him, she would be dead in an instant. That was another reason that he could not take Wardes out then and there. Matilda had placed her trust in him by explaining Wardes's plan. Roxas needed to keep his end of the bargain by trusting her now. Still, that was a lot easier said than done. She used to be his enemy, but now he was placed in a position where he had to trust that she would follow through with her plan.
Right now, he was waiting for the time that Matilda would show up and stall them so Wardes could get away with Louise. Again, this was a risky plan because he didn't know what Wardes would do to Louise during that time. If it was anything like what he did to Matilda…Roxas didn't want to think about it.
"And then, she just slapped me on the cheek! Can you believe that?" Guiche cried as he flopped over the rail. "How could she do that to me? …Roxas! Are you even listening?"
"Hmm? Oh Yeah." Roxas said as he snapped out of his daze.
Guiche threw his hands into the air. "No you weren't."
Roxas was about to reply, but the ground suddenly began to rumble. Guiche and Roxas steadied themselves against the rail as the earth began to shift. Suddenly, a massive body burst forth from the ground. Roxas recognized it immediately; after all, he had fought this thing more than once. However, the arrival of this giant creature meant that Matilda was here as well, and that meant that Wardes didn't suspect a thing…Hopefully.
Roxas gave a small sigh of relieve. Guiche, on the other hand, was freaking out, waving his rose frantically though the air.
"What is that? Where did it come fro…?" Guiche started, until the gears started to turn in his mind. "Roxas! That's Fouquet's Golem!" he shouted.
"Oh, so you do have a brain under all those good looks." A voice said from on top of the golem.
Roxas and Guiche looked up to see a green-haired figure standing on top of the golems head. She was easily recognized.
"Fouquet!" Guiche shouted as he pointed his rose up at the woman. "How did you escape from prison?"
"You shouldn't ask a girl about her secrets." Matilda said as she flipped her hair to the side. She looked over at Roxas. "So, we meet again Roxas. I will have to pay you back for our last encounter."
"Fouquet." Roxas said, faking anger. "Why are you here? What's going on?"
Mathilda gave a sinister smile as she played along. She shrugged her shoulders dramatically. "Oh, after I escaped from prison, I found myself here. I was just minding my own business until, lo and behold, I saw the very people that put me in prison. I really couldn't let this opportunity pass to get a little revenge."
Guiche narrowed his eyes before he raised his rose. "It's what you deserved after what you did, Fouquet."
"Aww, did I make the little boy angry?" she taunted. "Don't worry; I will make it all better."
Immediately, she raised her wand and pointed over at Roxas, completely ignoring Guiche in the process. The golem reacted by raising its right arm before bringing it down on Roxas. Roxas smirked as he easily dodged the oncoming fist. In fact, he noticed that it was much slower than the last time he fought. It seemed that Matilda was taking it down a notch. Hopefully it would be convincing enough for Wardes though.
Guiche raised his rose before he started chanting off a spell. He flicked the flower before seven petals detached. Immediately, they spawned in a number of Valkyries. Another flick of Guiche's rose caused them to attack the golem.
Fouquet barely paid them any mind as she lazily waved her wand at the incoming attackers. The golem swung its massive fist to the side, destroying the greater part of Guiche's small army. Guiche didn't seem that phased by it before he flicked his rose again, causing another petal to detach. The petal flew through the air before it landed on the feet at the golem's feet. Quickly, Guiche muttered another spell under his breath before he waved his rose once more. Suddenly, the ground that the golem was standing on turned to mud.
Fouquet looked down in shock as her golem began to sink into the ground. The giant creature tried to step out, but it just caused it to sink even faster. It was already up to its knees in the mud. Fouquet leaped off the giant as it continued to sink. However, it stopped when half of its body was in the mud.
Guiche waved his rose again, causing the mud to instantly harden, completely trapping the golem in the process.
Roxas raised his eyebrows in surprise. He did not expect that from Guiche…And by the look on Matilda's face, she could not believe it either.
Soon, Matilda regained her composure before she gave a condescending smile. "Well, it seems that the little mage has learned a few tricks."
Guiche gave a small smirk. "After I was defeated by Roxas, I learned that I cannot continue to be weak. I need to be strong if I am to protect the people I care about. So I practice every day to improve myself." He said as he crossed his rose in front of his face.
Roxas had to admit, Guiche looked pretty bad ass right now.
Fouquet looked over at her golem. "Not bad, pretty boy. However…" Fouquet said as she whipped her wand to the side. Suddenly, the ground that Guiche was standing on turned to sand. He yelped before he sunk in to his knees. Another wave of her wand later, the sand hardened, leaving Guiche completely stuck. "You still have a lot to learn."
Guiche tried to chant off another spell, but Matilda was quicker on the draw. She whipped her wand again, causing a small column of earth to shoot from the ground and encompass Guiche's right hand. It then dragged his hand and the rose into the ground, leaving Guiche completely defenseless. Guiche grunted as he tried to pry his hand free from the earth, but it was no use.
Matilda turned away from him before she faced Roxas. "Now that the distraction is over, how about we dance a little." She said before she grinned. She chanted a quick spell before she waved her wand. The Golem that was stuck in the mud suddenly dissolved into the ground before it started to reform underneath her. It wasn't seconds later that she was standing on top of it again, looking down at the nobody.
Roxas whipped his hand to the side before the Forgotten Light flashed into existence. "I couldn't agree more."
Matilda looked down at the Keyblade before she laughed a little. "Oh the memories. You are using the Staff of Destruction against me? What irony." She said as she raised her wand and pointed at Roxas. The golem rammed its arm at Roxas, but it was easily avoided as he jumped back. He then pointed the Forgotten Light at the golem.
"Blizzara!" Ice shot from the tip of the Keyblade before it impacted the golem's arm. Instantly, Ice crystals erupted around the giant fist, firmly locking it to the ground. Roxas eyes widened a bit. He knew that the Forgotten Light boosted his magical ability, but this was really impressive. Shaking it off, Roxas shot forward, dashing past the fist before he swung his Keyblade at one of the golem's legs. The Keyblade cut clean through, causing the golem to stumble to the ground.
Roxas turned around as he rested the Keyblade on his shoulder. "Don't tell me this is all you have Fouquet."
Matilda smirked ashes raised her wand. "I learned a few tricks since the last time we fought." She said as she waved her wand. The golem suddenly tugged at its frozen appendage. It took only a few seconds before it broke its own arm completely off, freeing itself from the icy hold in the process. With another flick of the wand, the golem pointed its stump at the surrounding wall of earth. Immediately, the rock broke away from the wall and began to reform the golems arm and leg. It wasn't long before its body was completely recovered, almost as if Roxas had never touched it in the first place.
"That's more like it." Roxas said as he got into his single Keyblade stance. Matilda swung her wand, causing the golem to point an open hand at Roxas. Suddenly, earth spikes shot from the golem's hand. Roxas jumped back to avoid a few before he stood his ground. He slashed through couple more, shattering them upon contact, before he pointed his Keyblade at the golem's hand.
"Fira!" A massive fireball erupted from the tip of the Keyblade before it impacted the hand. The appendage exploded, leaving parts of the arm on fire from the spell. However, the damage was fixed with another wave of Mathilda's wand.
"Keep fighting Roxas. I can do this all day." Matilda said as she smirked down at him.
Roxas gave a little smile and was about to attack again, but he suddenly saw something behind Matilda, which caused his eyes to widen drastically.
Matilda noticed his expression and turned around. Her eyes widened as well before she waved her wand with insanely quick speed. A wall of earth shot up from the ground in front of her. Immediately, earth spikes collided with the wall, but luckily, none of them penetrated through.
Matilda felt her heart hammer against her chest. Her breaths were coming out in short gasps. That was way too close for comfort. She waved her wand again, causing the earth wall to drop. She then looked over at who had nearly caught her off guard.
Her eyes widened a bit as she saw Guiche there. His legs and right arm were still stuck in the ground. But in his left hand was another rose. He had it pointed at her, his face strained in concentration. He waved his rose again before the ground that held him captive turned back into sand. Easily, he crawled back out before he stood on his feet.
"How did you get your wand back?" Matilda questioned.
"I always bring a spare rose in case I meet a very special girl." He said before he crossed the rose in front of his face. "You were lucky Fouquet. I almost hade you there. Escaping your little trap was very easy because I am also an earth mage." He said as he swung his rose. Eight Valkyries appear before they attacked the golem.
Matilda was very impressed, but she could not help but laugh at his attempts at fighting. "You have improved a lot, but if this is the best you have to offer, it just goes to show why you are still a dot mage." She said as her golem swung its arm and destroyed all of the Valkyries again. She looked at Guiche, expecting to see him completely terrified. However, instead of fear, she saw a smirk on his face.
"Those Valkyries were not meant to beat you." He said with a grin.
Matilda was confused for only a second before she felt cold metal against her throat. Realization dawned on her. She didn't even have to look to know who it was. Guiche had distracted her so that Roxas could catch her off guard.
Their strategy was impressive. If she hadn't of talked to Roxas the previous evening, then this situation would have been a lot more worrisome. "Looks like you got me." Matilda said as she raised her arms in defeat.
"Yeah, looks like i…"
Suddenly, a massive shadow passed over them. Roxas, Guiche, and Mathilda all looked up to see a large ship flying through the air.
Guiche's eyes widened in horror. "That's the ship we are supposed to be on! They left without us!"
Roxas gave a small smile before he lowered his Keyblade. "Not bad Matilda."
Matilda gave a sigh of relief before she gingerly touched her neck. "Not bad yourself."
Suddenly, a gust of wind slammed into the top of the golem. Matilda was thrown from off of her perch and over the rail of the cliff. Her wand was thrown from her hand because of the impact, leaving her without the ability to use magic.
Roxas's eyes widened before he leaped off of the golem and shot after her. Matilda was screaming as she continued to fall to the ground. Roxas grit his teeth as he tried to catch up to her, but they were falling at the same pace. He could have used the corridor of darkness, but then what? They would still be falling and the impact could still kill her.
He ground his teeth as he saw Matilda continue to fall. He needed to save her. She trusted him with her life. He could not let her down now. He would never forgive himself it he let her die. She had risked everything to help them. He could not let her die.
He Couldn't.
No…
He Wouldn't
Suddenly, a light aura surrounded Roxas. His entire being began to glow with the white aura. As if on instinct, he slammed his feet into the side of the cliff before he shot down at Matilda. He jumped against the side of the cliff again as he drew closer to the falling woman. With one last jump, he shot at her before he caught her around the waste. She instantly wrapped her arms around his neck, burying her face in his shoulder as she continued to scream into his jacket.
Roxas turned in midair before he slammed his feet into the wall again, slowing them down a bit. He did it again, his shoes digging into the side of the cliff as he slowed their decent. Looking around, he noticed they were getting close to the ground. The white aura glowed brighter as he clenched his teeth again. He pushed against the wall once more to slow there decent before he leaped away from the wall.
Roxas spun in the air before he landed on the ground, Matilda over his shoulder. The impact on the ground was enough to rattle his bones a bit, but it was much better than the other outcome. He panted a little as the white aura suddenly dispersed, leaving his gasping for air as he fell to his knees.
He accidently dropped Mathilda on the ground, causing her to yelp a bit in pain. Her breaths were coming out in short gasps as well. But her eyes were wide from shock at what just happened. She slowly looked over at the boy next to her. He was on his hands and knees, breathing deeply. He had somehow managed to catch her and slow there decent before they hit the ground.
How?
Roxas was just as surprised as she was by what happened. What was that white aura…?
Suddenly, a memory flashed through his head. He was watching Sora as he was encompassed by the same light aura. He was bouncing from wall to wall, destroying the dream eaters as he used the aura to his advantage.
As fast as the memory came, it was gone again. But from that little bit of information, it was clear what Roxas had used.
"Flowmotion." Roxas said his eyes widened a bit more. That was how he was able to slow there decent. He used Flowmotion to save himself and Matilda. Roxas shook his head as he gave a small smile. "It seems you have saved me again…Sora." He whispered before he looked over at Matilda. "Are you ok Matilda?"
Matilda nodded dumbly before she put a hand over her heart. "I thought I was going to die there."
"You're not the only one." Roxas gasped as he pushed himself to his feet.
Suddenly, a shadow passed over them, causing Fouquet and Roxas to look up. Roxas saw a blue dragon descending upon them with three familiar figures riding on its back.
"Sylphid?" Roxas said before he saw the passengers. "Tabitha? Kirche? What are you doing there?"
Sylphid landed on the ground in front of Matilda and Roxas. Tabitha quickly jumped off before she narrowed her eyes a little. She pointed her staff at the both of them.
Guiche was the next person to jump off of the dragon. He also had his eyes narrowed and his flower pointed at them. "Roxas, what is the meaning of this? Why did you save her?"
"I have to admit, I am curious as well Roxas." Kirche said, not even calling him darling this time. Roxas could tell by the sound of her voice that this was serious.
Roxas sighed as he looked over at Matilda. She looked him in the eye before she gave a small nod. He then glanced at his friends again.
"I guess I should explain."
It only took a few minutes to explain the situation. Matilda even showed them the magical seal on the back of her neck as proof. At the end, everyone seemed satisfied with the explanation. They even felt a little pity for Matilda. It also turned out that the reason Tabitha and Kirche were here was because they had seen Roxas, Guiche, and Louise leave yesterday. Kirche's curiosity got the best of her and she dragged Tabitha along for the ride.
"That's horrible! To think that Wardes would do such a thing. And he is the leader of the rebellion in Albion?" Kirche asked.
Roxas nodded. "We needed Wardes to take Louise to where Wales is hiding so we can complete our mission. We can't have Tristan fighting in a war alone. If that letter gets out, Tristian won't have an alliance with Germania."
"I see your point, but that's still is a risky plan." Kirche commented
"And it just got riskier." Matilda said sadly.
Roxas blinked a few times before he turned to her. "What do you mean?"
Matilda bit her lip. "Wardes let me know a few things before I came to stall you. It turns out that he had three goals in mind. The first was to get the letter from Wales and destroy any alliance Tristan may have had with Germania, the second was to kill Prince Wales, and the third…" she paused for a moment before she took a deep breath. "Was capturing Louise and bring her to Albion."
Roxas felt his eyes widen in horror. "Why? Why would Wardes want to capture Louise?"
"Because Louise is a void Mage."
…
Everyone was silent for the longest time, trying to absorb what Matilda was saying. Kirche was the first to break the silence. "But…that's impossible! Void has never been seen since the founder. And besides, Louise has never succeeded in making any spell work!"
Matilda shook her head at how naïve Kirche was being. "She has a tremendous amount of power building up in her. Every small spell she tried to cast, she would accidently overload it with magic, causing it to explode. However, that was not how we learned of her void mage status." She said as she turned to Roxas. "It was because of you."
"Me?"
Matilda nodded. "You bare the runes of Gandalfr. The legendary familiar of the founder Brimir."
Everyone looked between Roxas and Matilda for a few second before she continued. "When I learned about the runes from Professor Colbert, Wardes and I did a little research and found that you were indeed the legendary familiar. And because of that, the only explanation was that Louise was a mage of the void. With that kind of power and influence to back up the rebellion, Tristain would not have stood a chance. There would have been a bloodbath."
Roxas felt his eyes widen. He was not the only one though. Everyone was trying to process this new information.
"But…But surely, Louise would not aid in a battle against the Princess and her own country." Guiche said shakily.
Matilda grimaced a bit as she shook her head. "Wardes has already accounted for that. His accomplice, Cromwell, will be controlling her with the Andvari Ring. The one he stole from the water spirit."
Roxas jaw dropped a bit as she understood the situation. This man, Cromwell, was the reason the water spirit was so angry. Louise was being controlled by Wardes and this man, and there was nothing she could do to stop it. Roxas felt his stomach drop a bit as he realized how dangerous there plan really was now.
"Damn it!" He cursed. If he had known that this plan would be this dangerous, then he would have never allowed Wardes to get away. Mission is dammed when his friend's life was on the line like this. He looked at Matilda. "What can we do? How far away are we from Albion?"
"Wardes is planning to force Louise to marry him at a church in Albion. It's nearly a day's journey from here by flying ship." Matilda said sadly.
Roxas grit his teeth in anger. One day was way too long, and besides, the next ship didn't leave until tomorrow. "DAMN IT!" He shouted in frustration. He needed to get there faster. But what could he do? He didn't know where the church was, so he couldn't use Corridor of darkness to teleport there. What could he do?
Use Flowmotion
Roxas blinked a few times as that thought penetrated his mind. He knew from his memory that Flowmotion was very fast, but would it be enough to get there in time?
Use Flowmotion!
Roxas shook his head, trying to push his doubts to the back of his mind. If Flowmotion was his only shot, then he was going to take it. Suddenly, he calmed himself as he closed his eyes and took a few deep breaths.
Everyone was staring at him in confusion. Just a second ago, he was freaking out about the situation. Now he was calm and composed. What was going through his head?
Suddenly, a white aura began to emit from his entire being. It was gentle at first, but then it increased into a raging storm of twisting energy.
Matilda's eyes widened a bit as she recognized the aura. He had used it to save her when she was falling off the cliff. But what was it? She had never seen any form of magic quite like this before.
Kirche, Guiche, and Tabitha were thinking the same thing as they watched Roxas in awe. He almost looked angelic with the white aura circling his body.
Roxas opened his eyes. He raised his right hand and looked at the white aura before he clenched his fist. He then looked at the rest of his friends. They were all staring at him; their mouths dropped open in awe.
"I will explain later, but I don't have time right now. I will go ahead since I am faster when using Flowmotion. If you can try and make it there, please do. I will need all the help I can get." He said.
Kirche blinked a few times before she massaged her temples. "Geez. Will you stop it? My mind is already filled with questions about you. I really don't need more." She said before she gave him a smile. "Be safe, ok?"
Tabitha walked forward, catching his attention. She was staring at the light before she gently reached up and pinched the fabric of his coat. She could feel the warmth of the aura that he was emitting.
"Warm" she said before she looked into his eyes. "Be careful. We will be right behind you."
"Thanks." Roxas said.
Guiche finally regained his composure before he ran his hand through his hair. "Despite the fact that you have an angelic aura now, don't think for a second that makes you more handsome than me."
Roxas sweat dropped a bit before he laughed. He then turned to Matilda. "It's time for me to keep my end of the barge. I won't have time to undo the seal when I get there, so I need to remove it now. I still need you to help me find the church though. Will you help me?"
Matilda was still staring at his glowing state, but she nodded. She turned her back to him and moved her hair out of the way to reveal the magical seal on her neck.
Immediately, the Oathkeeper appeared in his right hand before he pointed it at the seal on her neck. Everyone watched in awe as a circle of light formed at the tip of the weapon. It continued to charge until a beam of light ejected from the Keyblade. It impacted the center of the seal, causing the seal to light up. Roxas flicked his wrist, unlocking the seal and making a small click before the beam of light dissipated. The seal flashed once before it dissolved from off the back of Matilda's neck.
Even though Matilda couldn't see it removed, she knew she was free. The feeling of freedom after so long was enough to bring her to tears. She bit her lower lip as they freely fell from her eyes. Her first taste of freedom was so sweet. It was finally over. She didn't have to worry about Wardes killing her at any moment now, or having to be tortured for hours on end…Or even…
Just the thought brought her to her knees as she freely let her emotions go.
Roxas smiled a bit as he remembered Kirche telling him about why people cry when they are not sad. Now that he was seeing it, he really did understand why people cry when they are happy. Slowly, he walked over to her and rested a hand on her shoulder.
"Matilda. I really need your help now. Please point me the direction I need to go."
Matilda wiped her eyes before she nodded. She had a large smile on her face as she stood on her feet. "I know how to get there, but how am I going to keep up with you?"
Roxas didn't answer that question as he swooped down and picked her up bridal style, causing her to blush a bit out of embarrassment. She felt the aura around him. It was a very warm feeling at it gently touched her skin.
Roxas then turned to the others. "I will meet you there."
Guiche gave a smile as he saluted him. "Good luck Roxas."
Roxas nodded before he looked down at Matilda. "Which way?"
Matilda looked off in a certain direction before she pointed her finger. "That direction…um, Roxas? How fast…" She started before Roxas suddenly took off like a bullet. She yelped a bit as she threw her arms around his neck. Roxas leaped into the air and kicked against a canyon wall, increasing his speed dramatically. He then bounced between the walls as he blurred through the rocky terrain.
Everyone watched slack-jawed as Roxas left them in the dust. It was literally seconds before he was out of site. Kirche was the first to recover as she gave a small laugh. She then adopted a sultry grin on her face.
"Wow, he is fast. I wonder if he could use that speed in…other ways." She said before she turned to Tabitha. Tabitha was showing a rare moment of surprise as well before tiny blush crossed her face.
"Now, how are we supposed to follow that? How are we even supposed to find Lousie?" Guiche asked.
Just as he said that, the earth beneath him began to shake. It was an instant later that his mole familiar popped out of the ground.
"Veroandi!"
Matilda had never experience something like this before. It was almost like they were flying through the air, but this was much faster than riding on a dragon, or a griffin. At first, she was a bit scared that Roxas would drop her while he was moving, but his grip was so strong that her doubts flew out the window. It didn't take long to make it out of the rocky terrain into the forest. If it were possible, they were moving faster through the forest than the rocky terrain. Roxas was ricocheting off of trees to increase his speed. The insane amount of skill he was displaying was something to behold. Every time she thought they would crash into a tree, he would either skillfully bounce off it, or he would dodge it completely. What was even more impressive was that he was carrying her the whole time.
Not only was his speed impressive, but his strength as well. To be able to move this fast while carrying someone was truly impressive.
"Travel this way for a while." Matilda said as she pointe in another direction. Roxas nodded as he followed her command. It was a second later that they came across a cliff that went straight up.
Did that stop Roxas?
Nope.
He didn't even slow down as he shot up the wall, kicking against the earth to increase his speed. It didn't take long before they made it to the top. Roxas then took off into the forest again.
"That way." Matilda said, pointing in a direction with her hand while her other one was wrapped around Roxas's neck. Roxas did what he was told, jumping through the trees as he used Flowmotion's speed to his advantage.
Matilda had to admit, this was very…fun. She liked the feeling of wind whipping through her hairs as they moved. And it wasn't even that cold because Roxas's aura seemed to emit very comfortable warmth.
"Can you get higher? It's hard to see where were going through the trees." Matilda said.
Roxas grunted a bit before he shot upwards. They burst through the treetops before he started leaping across each tree. Matilda kept showing him the way as they traveled through the night.
Roxas had sweat rolling down his face as he continued to travel through the next day. His muscles were screaming in pain because of the constant use of Flowmotion throughout the day. He was completely and utterly exhausted.
However, he was not the only one. Matilda was struggling to stay away. She had dark circles under her eyes from lack of sleep, but she knew she had to stay awake until they made it to the church. But thank Brimir they were closing in on it fast. It was amazing that Roxas had been able to move like that, but she could tell that he was running on less than fumes at the moment. Neither of them had eaten anything, and it looked like Roxas was about to collapse at any moment.
"Just up this hill." Matilda said as she pointed up the cliff.
Roxas grit his teeth as he shot up the side of the hill. Right at the top, there was a church building.
"This is it."
Roxas gasped as the light aura immediately faded from his body. He dropped Matilda, who didn't look like she was faring any better.
He dropped to his hands and knees, heaving as sweat continued to fall from his face. The only thing that had kept him going through the whole trip was his desire to save Louise. It's as only through sheer determination to save his friend that drove him to this point.
Matilda shakily stood on her feet. She was trying to adjust to the feeling of not having the wind constantly against her face. She was also trying not to fall to the ground in exhaustion. She stretched her arms before she dusted off the front of her robes. She then looked over at the church.
"Roxas, that's the church. You have to hurry."
Roxas nodded, trying to gulp as much air as he could before shakily standing on his feet. "T-Thank you Matilda." He gasped.
Matilda shook her head. "No, thank you. You gave me hope. You gave my freedom." She said before she walked up to him. "It may be unlikely, but I hope our paths cross in the future." She said before she gave a seductive smirk. "If you are not claimed by then, I might just have to make a man out of you."
Roxas raised an eyebrow in confusion. "Huh?"
Matilda laughed a bit. "You are still young. You will understand one day." She said before she gently wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him into a soft hug. "I really do mean it Roxas. I am really grateful for what you have done for me."
Roxas blinked before he patted her back. "Don't mention it. It's not fair to have your existence enslaved."
Matilda pulled back before she gave him one more grateful smile. "Goodbye Roxas." She said before she turned and used what energy she had left to run off into the forest.
Roxas watched her disappear before he faced the church. He took a deep breath and tried to salvage what energy he had left. Quickly, he shot over to the doors.
Louise was in trouble, there was no question about it. She thought that Wardes was acting strange the previous day when he claimed that her familiar had left for Tristain. To Louise, she knew that Roxas would not just abandon a mission like that, but her respect and admiration for Wardes clouded her judgement on the matter. She followed him alone as they traveled to Albion.
His suspicious actions continued throughout the night until she finally was convinced that he was up to something. Unfortunately, she discovered that too late.
Currently, she was being controlled by the Ring of Andvari. She was standing next to Wardes in front of an altar. Prince Wales was standing in front of her and Wardes as he performed the ceremony of marriage. He was giving some speech about the wonderful aspects of marriage, but she was paying no attention to it. She was frantically trying to fight against Cromwell's control, but the power of the ring was controlled her body with an iron grip.
Truthfully, it hurt to learn of Wardes's true nature. She never would have thought that he would betray her like this. She never expected him to turn against Tristian and start a civil war in Albania with someone like Cromwell. What happened to the kind Sir Wardes she came to admire in her younger years? What had happened to him that he would change so much?
"Louise, do you take Sir Wardes to be your lawfully wedded husband?" Wales asked as he smiled happily at the couple.
"I…I…I…" she stuttered, using every ounce of strength she had to fight against the power of the ring.
"Louise?" Wales asked, his eyebrow raised.
Wardes cleared his throat. "She is just nervous. It is a big day for her after all." He said with a gentle smile before he looked over at Louise. "Don't be shy Louise, go ahead."
"I-I" Louise stuttered again. She was fighting so hard against the rings control that actual tears were coming out of her eyes.
Wales seemed to notice as he narrowed his eyes a bit. He looked over at Wardes. "I don't think she wants to go through with this."
"Nonsense." Wardes said as he ground his teeth bit. It was easy to see that Louise was fighting against Cromwell's control, but he didn't expect this girl to have that much willpower. "Just ask her again. I am sure she will answer you."
Wales stared at him for a few seconds before he turned to Louise. "Do you take Wardes to be your lawfully wedded husband?"
Louise hands were shaking a bit as she continued to try and gain control over her body. "I-I"
BAM
Suddenly, the doors of the church burst open. Everyone turned to see a gleaming weapon whirl through the entryway, right at Sir Wardes. Wardes eyes widened drastically as he dove out of the way. The weapon whizzed passed him and slammed into the wall, instantly smashing right through the brick. The weapon then turned and flew back in the direction it came.
Instantly, a hand reached though the doorway and snatched the weapon out of the air. The figure stood there in a black coat. There was with a firm glare on his face and he held a black, key-like weapon in his grip.
"LOUISE!"
Cromwell, who was watching the wedding ceremony behind a pillar in the church, was distracted for a brief moment by the sudden interruption. He suddenly lost concentration in that instant, but that was all Louise needed. When Louise heard that voice, she used all of her will power against the control of the ring.
Instantly, the spell shattered. She ripped the veil off of her head and turned towards the door. Her eyes widened drastically as she saw her familiar standing there. He had actually come for her. He somehow managed to find her.
"ROXAS!"
Roxas was standing in the doorway, leaning against the frame as he panted. He pushed against the door before he walked in, pointing his key blade at Wardes. "It's over Wardes."
Everyone in the current vicinity stared at the new figure. Wales was the first to regain his composure. "Guards, ARREST HIM!"
"Wait!" Louise shouted as she turned to Prince Wales. "Prince Wales, It's a trap! Wardes is…"
"To Hell with it!" Wardes Roared as he drew his sword and rushed at Wales. Wales only had a second to look over at Wardes. His eyes widened as the sword drew nearer. In this position, there was no way he would be able to dodge. What was Wardes doing? Wales grit his teeth and waited for impact.
Wardes was within inches of thrusting his blade through Wales's heart, but suddenly, a black weapon slammed into his side, throwing him through the air and ramming him into the wall of the church.
"AURGH!" he cried as he fell to the ground. The black weapon suddenly spun through the air as Roxas rushed forward and caught the Keyblade. He then stood between Wales and Wards in his one Keyblade stance.
Wales's eyes where wide as he witnessed what just happened. There was no doubt in his mind. Wardes had tried to attack him, while this intruder had just saved his life. He was a bit to shocked to speak at the moment as he looked at the downed Wardes. Currently, the man was trying to stand on his feet while holding his ribs. A bit of blood was seeping from the side of his lip.
Wardes looked up at Roxas, his eyes wide and his teeth clenched. "HOW! How did you find us?"
Roxas didn't answer his question. "It's over Wardes. I already know you are the head of the rebellion in Albion."
If it were possible, Wales's eyes widened even more at he looked over at the mage. "Is that true Sir Wardes? Are you working for Cromwell? The leader of Reconquista?"
Wardes didn't answer as he stood shakily on his feet. However he didn't need to say anything as Louise walked up to Wales's side. "He is! I was under the control of the ring of Andvari. He was trying to force me to marry him. He said he needed me in Reconquista for some reason." She said as she glared down at the man.
Wales grit his teeth a bit as he looked from Wardes to Roxas. "Who are you?"
"That is my familiar, Roxas." Louise answered, her expression softening a bit.
Roxas relaxed his stance a bit, but kept his Keyblade out. He looked over at Wales before he gave a small nod.
Wales nodded back. "You have saved my life Roxas, for that I am grateful." He said before he turned to Wardes. "Sir Wardes. Your betrayal of Tristain saddens me. It is shameful that you have fallen to such a level and it is even sadder that Tristain has lost a prize member of the griffin knights." He said as he narrowed his eyes. "You are under arrest. Guards, seize him."
Immediately, Wardes was surrounded by Wales's guards. They moved forward to grab him, but a low chuckle stopped them in their tracks.
Wales, Louise, and Roxas stared at Wardes as he continued to laugh. His laughter increased until it was extremely menacing, filling the church with a very uneasy atmosphere.
Wardes finally finished laughing before he turned to Roxas. "It seems that Fouquet was once again useless. I will have to dispose of her once I am done with you."
Roxas narrowed his eyes, but had a knowing smile on his face. "Wardes, you are surrounded and outnumbered. Besides, you proved to be no match for me when we dueled. I beat you once. I can do it again."
Wardes gave another chuckle before a menacing grin crossed his face. "I underestimated you Roxas, but at the end of today, I will have fulfilled my goals."
"Oh? And what are those?" asked Wales, his eyes narrowed.
"First, I was to secure the letter from Henrietta." Wardes said as he fished a letter out of his jacket.
Louise gasped as she patted down her clothes. Her eyes widened as she realized the letter was no longer on her.
"The second was to kill you, Wales." He continued before he turned his eyes on Louise. "My last goal was to capture you Louise."
Louise blinked a few times, obviously confused. "Why?"
"Because, you are the first void mage that has been seen for over 6000 years. Imagine what possibilities that could give the Reconquista." Wardes said with a menacing smile.
…
Everyone stopped staring at Wardes before they looked over at the petite girl. However, she was just as confused as they were.
Wales shook his head. "You have gone mad Wardes." He said as he turned to him. "Why have you told up this anyway?"
"Because it won't really matter. I will be victorious today."
Suddenly, the air seemed to drop several degrees. It was then that Roxas caught a whiff of something that he had hoped he would never encounter on this world. His eyes widened as he felt his stomach drop. He knew this scent anywhere.
Darkness.
"No." Roxas whispered.
Suddenly, darkness erupted from around Wardes. It radiated from off his form with black and dark green wisps of energy. Everyone was too shocked to even react as Wardes raised his sword and swung it. The force of the swing caused a shockwave that send the guards flying in all directions. Roxas crouched as he braced himself against the force, but Wales and Louise was sent stumbling to the ground.
Wardes stood there with his fencing staff out, the dark wisps of energy chaotically spiraling around him as he stood there with a grin on his face. He turned over to one of the pillars of the church. "Cromwell, get out of here. I will handle these pests."
A figure with blond hair emerged from behind the pillar before he stared at Wardes. "I will want an explanation when this is over Wardes." He demanded before he raced out the doors.
Wardes then turned to Roxas, Louise, and Wales. They were all staring at him in fear and awe. It caused the man to laugh. "You like what you see? This is the power that was granted to me by a supporter of Reconquista." He said as he raised his hand and looked at the dark aura. "I have never felt so powerful in my life."
Questions were bombarding Roxas as he watched Wardes gloat in the power of darkness. How did he get control over the darkness? Since he got here, he had not seen one bit of darkness, but now Wardes was controlling it somehow. How?
Roxas grit his teeth as he summoned the Oathkeeper to his other hand. He turned to Wales and Louise, who were nearly trembling at the amount of power Wardes was displaying.
"Wales, Louise, get out of here. I will deal with this." He said.
Louise tore her gaze away from Wardes as she looked at her familiar. "What do you mean? How can you fight something like that?"
Roxas turned away from her as he faced his opponent. He got into his signature dual wielding stance. "It's not the first time."
Wales and Louise blinked a few times when they heard that, but now was not the time for questions. Wales stood from the ground and grasped Louise's arm, helping her to her feet. They then retreated to the far end of the church.
Wardes chuckled a bit at he pointed his staff at Roxas. "I will take great pleasure in killing you. After I am done with you, Wales is next, and then…" He said as he licked his lips. "Louise is all mine."
Roxas shook his head. "No. You will not touch them."
"We will see about that."
Wardes suddenly shot at Roxas with a newfound speed. Roxas raised his Keyblade and blocked and oncoming slash from Wardes, but his eyes widened drastically at the sudden increase in power. It didn't help that Roxas's whole body felt like a wet back of cement at the moment.
Grunting, Roxas pushed against Wardes before throwing him off. He then began his own onslaught of strikes, using both Keyblades to attack the man.
Wardes grinned as he felt the blows of the Keyblade. They were much easier to defend against with the power he had. He easily deflected all attacks before he rushed forward. He thrust his staff at Roxas, causing Roxas to spin around the weapon and attempt to hit Wardes in the side. However, Wardes leaped into the air, using his wind magic to fly. He looked down at Roxas with a chuckle.
"What's wrong Roxas? Too tired to continue?" he mocked as he pointed the staff at Roxas. He chanted another spell before a massive gust of wind erupted from the tip of the staff.
Roxas's eyes widened a bit as the darkness amplified the effects of the spell. Quickly, he raised his Oathkeeper. "AEROGA" He shouted.
The two spells collided with each other with such a devastating force that the concreate floor of the church began to crack. The windows exploded as the wind tried to escape the compacted area. Louise and Wales covered their heads as shards of glass flew in all directions.
Roxas grit his teeth as the wind dispersed before he raised his Oathkeeper, pointing it at Wales. "FIRA"
A Large fireball shot straight at Wardes, but he simply flew to the side to avoid it, letting the spell impact the ceiling of the church and blasting a whole straight through. He was about to laugh before he saw Roxas run toward the wall and kick against it to gain a bit of momentum.
Roxas shot straight at Wardes before swinging both his Keyblade. Wardes raised his own staff to block, but the impact of the strike sent his flying straight towards the ground. He quickly chanted another spell, catching himself before he slammed into the ground. Gently he floated to the ground, but Roxas didn't give him time to react.
"DUAL STRIKE RAIDE!" Roxas shouted as he whirled both the Oathkeeper and the Oblivion at Wardes. Wardes only had time to wave his staff, causing both weapons to smash into a barrier of wind. Roxas used light dash to shoot forward and snatch the Keyblades out of the air. He then threw them again at Wardes, this time, completely smashing through the barrier.
Wards was quick to move though as he leaped into the air again. He pointed his staff at Roxas before muttering a lengthy spell. Suddenly, arcs of electricity scaled down the side of the staff before a bolt of lightning shot from the tip directly at Roxas. The spell was infused with darkness, giving the lightening a darker hue.
Roxas looked up before his grit his teeth. He crossed his Keyblades in front of himself and braced for impact. The bolt hit him straight on and Roxas screamed a bit as he felt electricity course through his body. Luckily, the Keyblades absorbed most of the impact, but it was still a devastating blow. Roxas fell to his knees as he gasped in pain. Not only was he exhausted now, he was also in a massive amount of pain.
"ROXAS!" Louise shouted as she saw Roxas on his knees. Both she and Whales were watching in complete awe at the insane display of power between these two individuals. However, it looks like Wardes had the upper hand.
Wardes laughed as he floated down in front of him. "You fight well Roxas, but you cannot compare to this. There is nothing I have found that is more powerful."
Roxas panted as he looked up at the man. He pushed himself to his feet. "No. There is one thing that is more powerful than darkness."
Wardes grinned as he looked down at the boy. "Oh? And what is that?"
Suddenly, a light glow began to encompass Roxas. It was not nearly as dense as when he used Flowmotion, but it was still enough to get Wardes's attention.
"Light"
Roxas then swung his Oathkeeper. A pillar of light Shot down in front of him before it raced at Wardes. Wardes's eyes widened as he quickly jumped to the side to avoid the pillar, but Roxas swung again, causing another pillar of light to shoot straight at the man.
Wardes once again dodged, allowing the pillar to slam into the wall of the church, comply destroying it in the process. He then turned back to Roxas, who was panting, but that glow of light was still around him. The determination in his eyes was really starting to worry the square class mage.
"What is that?" Wardes demanded.
Roxas gave a small smile. Using the light pillars felt like he had an old friend back. "This is my power." Roxas said as he dashed at Wardes, preforming a series of strikes, each one releasing a pillar of light that shot at Wardes.
Wardes danced around the pillars, trying to stay clear of their devastating power. However, he could feel a bit of his dark powers dwindling every time he was near one of those pillars.
Roxas released another pillar that shot directly at Wardes, causing him to roll out of the way. Wardes was instantly on his feet before he turned to face Roxas again…but Roxas was nowhere to be found.
"Does this seem familiar Wardes?"
Wardes barely had time to turn around before another pillar of light ran straight into him. The force of the blow knocked him straight off his feet and sent him flying through the air. He roughly landed on his back before he coughed up a bit of blood.
Roxas was heaving now, using every ounce of energy he had to keep standing, but he was at his limit.
Wardes slowly sat up before he pushed himself to his feel. His eyes were wide and bloodshot with anger. How was Roxas still besting him, even when he had this much power? Wardes growled before he turned to Wales and Louise, who were still watching the fight in awe. Suddenly, a grin crossed his face.
"You know, whoever has the power of void will be able to rule this country." He started as he looked back at Roxas. "If I cannot have its power, then I will not allow any other nation have it. You may be able to fight me Roxas…But can she?" Wardes said as he raised an open palm at Louie.
Roxas's eyes widened as he realized what Wardes was going to do. "Wardes! DON'T!"
Wardes gave a sinister laugh before a condensed ball of darkness formed in his hand. A second later, the energy shot from his palm, heading straight for Louise.
Roxas watched helplessly as the ball of darkness headed for the girl. He was too exhausted to rush over there and save her, and he didn't have time to use the Corridor of Darkness.
Louise watched helplessly as the darkness shot at her. With each moment it grew closer, she could almost feel a bit of her soul leaving her, as if the darkness itself was trying to consume her. She closed her eyes, waiting for impact.
BAM
Louise still had her eyes shut, ready for the darkness to overtake her…But nothing happened. Slowly, she opened her eyes. Immediately, she wished he hadn't.
Standing in front of her, his arms stretched out protectively, was Price Wales. He had jumped in front of her to take the blow head on.
Prince Wales coughed once as particles of light began to emit off of his body. He looked up at Wardes, who was a bit shocked. Then he looked to Roxas, whose eyes were wide with horror. Just the look in his eyes was enough to tell Wales what was going to happen to him.
"P-Prince Wales! Why?" Louise said as tears started to roll down her cheek. More light began to emit off of his figure.
Slowly, Wales looked over his shoulder at the girl, a small smile on his face. "If it is true, and you are a void mage, then your life is worth even more than mine." He said before he looked up into the sky. "Forgive me…Henrietta." He whispered as he closed his eyes and slowly fell backwards.
Louise immediately stood and tried to catch him, but as soon as she touched his form, his entire body evaporated into particles of light. The only thing that remained was the Wind Ruby that fell to the through the air before landing on the ground with a soft ping.
Louise looked at her empty hands for a few seconds as more tears began to fall down her face. She collapsed on the ground before she gingerly picked up Wales's ring. Just looking at it, Louise realized one thing.
Wales was gone.
Immediately, she began to sob uncontrollably.
Wardes sneered before he looked over at Roxas. "It seems that I was able to accomplish one of my other goals and there was nothing you could do about it." He said as he got into his stance. "You are weak Roxas. Once I am done with you, there will be no one to stop me front taking Louise."
Roxas was overcome with shock at what just happened. Right in front of him, Wales had given his life for someone else. His very existence, gone.
Goodbye Roxas. See you again.
I'm glad…I got to meet you. Oh…and of course axel too. You're both my best friends.
Never forget.
That's the truth.
Roxas grit his teeth as a few tears escaped his eyes. Just like how she disappeared is his arms, Wales was now gone. Slowly, he turned his attention to Wardes before he slowly got into his stance.
Wardes grinned. "You are exhausted Roxas. There is nothing you can to do stop me. I will be the winner here. Louise is coming with me whether you like it or not."
"No." Roxas said through grit teeth. "She is not going anywhere. I am not losing anyone else. Not like I lost…" he said, his mind going back to watching that girl in his memory evaporate into particles of light in his arms.
"Not like I lost…" His mind then went to the top of twilight tower. He was sitting on the tower next to her. Slowly, she turned to face him, a smile crossing her lips.
"Xion."
Suddenly, Light erupted from around Roxas. The Oathkeeper vanished from his grip as he clenched the Oblivion with both hands.
Wardes watched, his smirk gone and his eyes wide.
Roxas faced Wardes before he suddenly shot forward. His speed was so fast now that Wardes didn't even have time to react.
"Event Horizon!"
Wards didn't know what happen as Roxas suddenly started his attack. The next thing he knew, he was being thrown around the room by an onslaught to attacks from Roxas. He tried to raise his staff in defense, but one quick slash from Roxas completely destroy his weapon. Pain erupted all over his body as he felt a multitude of bones break. The sheer power of these attacks was even breaking through the darkness that surrounded him.
Finally, with one quit movement, Roxas swung his Keyblade at Wardes, smashing him right in the chest and sending Wardes spiraling across the room. He crashed into the wall before he coughed up some blood. He looked up to see that Roxas had landed on the ground, but the aura was still covering his body.
Roxas raised his Keyblade once more before he brought it down. Immediately, four pillars of light appeared before they shot at Wardes. Wardes could only scream as they impacted him, completely destroying the wall of the church and sending the man flying through the air.
Roxas panted as the light suddenly faded from around him. He fell to the ground as his strength was now completely exhausted. He was on his hands and knees, gasping for breath. His vision was blurred from the sheer amount of fatigue.
Suddenly though, he heard the sound of someone else gasping for breath. Slowly, he looked up to see Wardes standing in the hole in the wall of the church. His face was strained in pain and he was grasping his right arm…Or where his right arm was supposed to be. The appendage was completely gone, and in its place was a bloody stump.
Wardes grit his teeth again as he fixed Roxas with a glare that was filled with so much hatred.
"You may have….Been able to defeat me in battle Roxas….But you realize that I have won this war." He said as he reached down and picked up his broken staff with his one remaining arm. "Wales is dead and I have the letter. Tristain is doomed and…it is all your fault." He said as he forced one more grin on his face. He then slammed his staff into the floor of the church.
Suddenly, a bright light emitted from the staff before the entire church began to crumble to the ground. Roxas could only watch helplessly as Wardes turned and departed, leaving both he and Louise at the mercy of the falling building.
"Roxas."
Roxas turned to see Louise standing there. The Wind Ruby in her hand. Her eyes were red from crying as she sat down next to him. "Why did Wardes do this?" She asked, even more tears started to cascade down her eyes.
Roxas shook his head as he looked up at the crumbling ceiling. "I don't know." He replied as he closed his eyes.
"LEVITATION!" two voices echoed. Roxas and Louise Suddenly found themselves surrounded by a sphere of energy before they were shot out of the top of the church. Roxas looked around before his eyes widened. Tabitha, Kirche, and Guiche were all standing there with their wands…Or in Guiche's case Rose…out.
Soon, they were lowered to the ground before the giant sphere dispersed. Kirche, Tabitha, and Guiche all approached.
"What happened in there?" Asked Kirche.
Roxas scrunched his eyebrows as Wardes's words played through his mind. As much as he didn't want to admit it. Wardes was right.
"We failed."
The stars were out and it was a chilly night as the entire group road on Sylphid's back. They were headed to the Castle in Tristain because they needed to report back to the princess on what had happened.
Roxas was exhausted, but his mind refused to sleep. Prince Wales was gone and the letter was taken. Tristan was on their own against the forces of Albion and it was his entire fault. If he would have just freed Matilda and taken care of Wardes before they even got to the church, then things would have been different.
This whole entire plan was one big mistake. He had endangered the lives of his friends all for the sake of one stupid letter.
Roxas looked around at the group that was riding Sylphid. Kirche was rambling on with Tabitha about something while Guiche and Louise where asleep. He needed to protect them. His friends where was mattered most to him. They were everything.
And now they would be going to war.
Roxas grit his teeth before he turned back to the starry sky. He was going to help Tristian win this war.
For the sake of his friends…
And for the sake of an existence he could not save.
Authors Note: Alright! There you go. This was a lot of fun to write and I hope you guys enjoyed it. I have plans for what happened to wales, but you will just have to wait and see.
Anyway, how did I do? Did you like it? Hate it? Please leave a review with your thoughts. If there are errors, i am sorry. This was over 10K words. It is EXTREMELY difficult to find them all.
School is alright for now, but it is going to get insane. I am glad I had time to write this. Things will be getting very interesting.
I have been looking forward to writing next chapter. There won't be as much action, but the learning will be very important for Roxas. So I hope you look forward to it.
Anyway, thanks again for reading. I will see you in the next chapter.
Until then!
P.S. To a nameless guest reviewer of chapter 12: I don't know where or how you interpreted my words like that, but no were in my ENTIRE story have I once said…or even implied that I was bummed about the amount of reviews I get. In fact, EVERY chapter I always say thanks for the support. I never expected to get so much attention in the first place. Please don't twist my words.
