Another chapter is up and ready. Plot Twists are coming just around the corner in this and the next chapter.

Disclaimer: I know its getting redundant, but Dissidia: Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts were made by Squaresoft. Star Ocean was developed by Tri Ace.

Eternal Sphere-Part I: Invasion of the Avalon Empire

Sora and co warped into another universe and eventually find themselves on a continent with a dirt road and brownish-green grass surrounding them, right in the middle of an Earth-like Planet.

Serenia took in the scenery with amazement"This place... its beautiful."

Sora glanced"I can only imagine where we must have ended up, this time. Let's look around."

As they are about to move on, a blue-haired young man with a tail accompanied by a slightly tan skinned man with white hair, a blond woman, and another young man with wings on his back start to approach the group.

Taios piped up"Hey, I recognize where we are. We're on Roak."

Ceodore was curious"Is this where those simulations you mentioned before?"

Taios nodded"kinda yeah."

The blond woman stopped as she noticed the group"Hm?"

"Hey" the blue-haired Fellpool spoke.

Sora turned to see the fellpool's group"Huh?"

"Are you guys travelers?" asked the Fellpool.

Sora nodded"In a way, yes. I'm Sora."

"I am Cecil, and you are?" inquired the Paladin.

"Roddick Ferrence. Who are the rest of your party?" said the Fellpool.

"I'm Taios Della Kota. This is Ceodore, Kain, Tyler, Serenia, Tidus and Yuna. As you guys can guess we're from different worlds, too" introduced Taios.

Roddick nodded"I... see. Pleasure to meet you."

The winged young man smiled"I'm Ioshua Jerand."

"'sup? I'm Cyuss Warren" grinned the Highlander.

The blond woman was curious"Other... Are you talking about the other planets that are out there? I'm Ilia Silvistri, officer of the Pangalactic Federation. This is an underdeveloped planet, by the way. What is your business, here?"

"Its kind of a long story. Have you seen a guy that kind of looks like Taios? His name is Saxito" Sora inquired.

Roddick shook his head"No, I haven't."

"Well, we've been trying to track him down and stop him... Basically he's after the same thing we are. And the relic is called the Dawn Crystal. And trust me on this one, if he gets what he wants, he will murder innocents just to do it."

Ioshua paled"How barbaric..."

Illia was puzzled"The Dawn Shard? What's that?"

"Supposedly, its the counter to another stone called the Twilight Crystal. Have you seen one?" Sora replied.

Roddick shrugged"No, but If you want... We can help. My friends and I are on a mission of our own, and I'm still missing... Hey, have you seen Millie around?"

Serenia was curious"Who's Millie?"

"Does she have pink hair?" Taios asked.

Roddick was surprised, but nodded"Yes, she does. Do you know where she is?"

Taios nodded"Last I heard, she was heading towards a kingdom of Silva-something."

"You mean Silvalant?" Ioshua supplied helpfully.

Tidus was confused"I'm a bit lost, what is Silvalant?"

"Its a kingdom on Van Continent, which is where we are right now. My group is heading towards Van Kingdom. But first, we have to find my superior, Captain Ronyx. We were heading for Ionis" Illia explained.

Sora squared his shoulders"Well, if you want, we can tag along with you guys until we find a Dawn Shard."

"Not that I'd stop you, but we're on a mission to slay the Archfiend, Asmodeus" said Illia, glancing uncertainly at Sora's group.

"And let me guess, Asmodeus is the big baddy of this world giving ya trouble and you guys have to find a way to stop em'" Taios guessed.

Ioshua was surprised"How did you-"

"We have our own experiences with big villains causing doomsday to other planets" supplied Taios.

Sora squared his shoulders with a look of confidence"Its probably nothing we can't handle."

Cyuss grinned"Heh, I like you guys already. What do you say, Roddick?"

Roddick nodded"We'll need the help we can get. You guys are welcome."

"Let's go buy supplies in Ionis and go to Van, then" said Illia.

Taios smiled"lead the way."

Sora and Illia's group headed down the path until they entered a small town called Ionis. As they got to the inn, they met a somewhat middle-aged man with dark hair and a young woman with blue.

"Captain?" Illia addressed the man, who was speaking to the young woman.

"Are you Illia's superior?" Sora asked.

The dark-haired man nodded"Yes, I am Captain Ronyx J. Kenny. I recognize Illia and Roddick, we were separated along the way."

"I'm Sora, and this is Taios, Roddick, Ceodore, Kain, Cecil, Tidus, Yuna, Serenia and Tyler" Sora introduced.

Ronyx nodded"Pleasure. This is Mavelle Forresson" he introduced his female companion.

Taios smiled"Well, it's nice to meet you both. Long story short, our group here isn't from Roak. As for myself, I'm from what you and Ilia would consider the past. An alternate 21st century Earth."

"An alternate Earth, you say? Hm. Intriguing" said Ronyx with a thoughtful look.

Serenia was amazed"This alternate universe stuff is complicated. We joined up with Roddick's group to help fight Asmodeus, my group Is looking for a Dawn Crystal Shard."

Mavelle raised an eyebrow"A Crystal Shard? Hm. There might be some old relics in Silivant and Van, you could ask the kings of either kingdom about that. I recall something about a small, orangish crystal. But I don't remember the details."

Ronyx nodded"I would appreciate the help. But aren't you and Tyler a bit young, Miss Serenia?"

Serenia shrugged"I'm pretty good at magic, and Tyler is a Prodigy."

Ronyx laughed"Okay, I don't judge based on appearances, anyway. As soon as we're ready, we'll go to Van Kingdom."

Taios nodded"Alright. I'll be right back. I haven't been holding it in since the last world, and I gotta go now!"

"We'll wait up for you, Taios" said Sora.

Roddick, Illia, Ceodore and Cecil headed to the item shop to stock up. As soon as they were ready, the group met up at the entrance of town. Illia spoke"Van is a short trek from here."

"Right" Sora nodded.

The group, headed by Sora and Roddick, began to head for Van City until the ground started to shake, and the sky started to go into twilight.

Taios groaned"Oh, crap."

"What?" Sora glanced at the sky"The eclipse must be spreading..."

"Eclipse?" inquired Roddick.

"The Twilight Eclipse is the product of a spell produced by the Twilight Crystal. Only the Dawn Crystal can counter it" supplied Serenia.

Illia shook her head"This is really illogical, nobody will be able to tell what time it is..."

"No kidding..." trailed Ronyx.

Taios heard the faint sound of screaming and panicking"Oh, no..."

They rushed to Van City, to find that the kingdom was invaded by multiple monsters aided by Heartless, Nobodies, and Roak's monsters.

Roddick was shocked"What are these things?!" He slashed at some of the Heartless and Nobodies."

"We'll explain later" said Taios.

"st-stay away!" cried a young woman from not far away.

"I'm afraid I can't do that my dear..." came an older man's voice.

They rushed to find that a pink-haired Roakian mage was surrounded by heartless and nobodies, which were being commanded by a yellow robed old man, having a white sash, balding wily hair, and a gold crystal Rod.

Illia charged at some Soldier Heartless with punches and kicks.

"Starlight!" Ronyx had zapped some Shadows with his Symbology.

"Millie!" Roddick rushed to the girl's aid, slashing at two Dusks and a Soldier Heartless. Ioshua, Serenia, Tyler, Mavelle and Cyuss charged at some of Roak's monsters, attacking with magic and melee weapons. Kain, Ceodore, Cecil and Sora rushed to help Millie and Roddick.

The old man gave a slow clap"I must say, watching you battle has made my old bones quiver in joy."

"who are you?!" Cyuss demanded.

Asmodai smiled"I am one of the four generals to the great Avalonian Empire. My name is Asmodai, Archfiend of the Earth. And I am loyal to only one Nobody that has the sense to actually murder insolent heroes and villains who can't even process the abstract of intelligence!" He then casted silencega and Caustic Spittle on them which was sap, slow, and poison.

Roddock groaned, but managed to use Medicine Bottles on himself, Millie and Sora. Ceodore, Kain and Cecil casted Esuna on the others.

"Is that all you got?" Sora usesd Rising Sun on the surrounding Heartless and Nobodies before launching Strike Raid at Asmodai. But as soon as the blade touched the old man, he created a Corrupted Miasma barrier that bounced back off him.

Asmodai laughed"hahahahahahaha! I do admire the pitiful devotions that youngsters like yourselves attempt to stop me." He retaliated by summoning Beserker Nobodies and using Blindga.

Taios came to a realization"Of course, I remember now. Kain! Dragoon jump! Ronyx, fire at the same time Kain does his jump!"

Ronyx nodded"Very well."

While Millie, Yuna and Ceodore cured any status effects left by Blindga, Ronyx fires an arrow at Asmoda around the same time Kain jumped and landed an attack on Asmodai. The force of both the captain's arrows and kains piercing jump destroyed the barrier.

Asmodai cursed"Damn you all!" He was about to attack more with Caustic Spittle, until a familar Nobody stopped him from the distance.

Saxito smiled"Asmodai, you've done a great job, but it's time to split. I already got the shard."

Asmodai grunted"... Hmph, as you wish."

"Hey, we're not done with you, yet!" Sora triesd to intercept Asmodai, but he was too late, asmondai was gone, he left through a corridor of darkness, leaving only Saxito.

Saxito graced them with an amused smile"Heh. Good to see you all again... Minus Roddick and his crew."

Tidus: You sure keep popping up whenever.

Roddick glanced at the dark-coated Teen"Is that...?"

"Saxito" Kain clarified.

Ceodore shrugged"I guess Saxito was the one commanding those monsters."

Ronyx faced Saxito"I am not one to talk, but assuming you are from a planet with a higher level of development, what reason do you have of interfering with Roak's affairs?"

Saxito smirked as he replied"Now that is a very good question, Captain Ronyx. The answer? Is that there's a storm coming that no one can even grasp. My way is the only way organics can even survive. That is the only way i can truly save more lives that have ever existed. But these morons would doom our entire civilization to complete annihilation."

Ronyx shook his head"Not good enough to justify a monster attack in my book. Even then, people could've been killed by that carnage."

Roddick pointed his sword at Saxito"If all you're trying to do is save lives, why must you take others? Millie could've been killed."

"I get the feeling he's just trying to rile us up, again" mussed Cecil.

Saxito shook his head"I don't expect you all to understand sacrifice, Roddick. And I'm really not looking for all of your approval. The multiverse is more grey than you can even care to imagine. You are all easily manipulative tools. Agents of a single purpose, and despite your differences of being stupid, you were all successful in stopping every villain and chaos, Sora. but like the rest of the relics of this world, your time is over."

"That's it! you're done!" Tidus was about to attack Saxito, until he brought out the dawn shard in one hand and a hammer in another, which made him stop in his tracks.

"Don't interfere in my plans, you pathetic morons, unless you want this very shard to be destroyed. And lets not forget the fact that I have kairi in my empire that I took over" Saxito threated.

Sora paled"What!? You..."

Cecil frowned"What's this about an empire? Are you trying to wage war on the World Order?"

Saxito scoffed"of course I'm waging war. Why else would I want to destroy Cosmos and Yoran?"

Serenia was shocked"All that... Just to get to Xehanort?"

"So that's your master plan. Between Xehanort, you, and Organization XIII, I can't decide which was worse" said Sora.

Cecil readied his blade"We won't let you take Baron, Cosmos, or Radiant Garden for that matter."

Saxito was unfazed"Let me ask you. Why should gods exist? Why does the realm of darkness exist?"

Taios snapped"we've heard enough out of you!" He brutally attacked Saxito, only for Saxito to block every attack as the sky became twilight and the ground darkened and sprinkles of darkness rose from it.

"Yes! more! attack me more! you know you want to kill me! you know you want to destroy me off the face of existence! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Saxito laughed, then attacked Taios even more brutally than ever with countless dark confetti knives.

Taios screamed"AHHHHHGGHHHH!"

"Taios!" Serenia cried.

Sora went over to Taios and casted Cura on him.

Kain gripped his lance"Gods exist for a reason, regardless if we like it or not."

Cecil shifted to Dark Knight form and cast a wave of darkness at Saxito.

Saxito warped to Serenia before the dark wave hit, captured her and pulled a pistol to her neck"There's an old saying: the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few. I was just about to leave with my army. And oh, by the way? Taios lied to you morons. He wasn't from Earth. If he was, then explain how he got his keyblade in the first place. One more thing. There's one last shard piece. I'll let you idiots deal with Asmodeus. Bye."

Saxito let Serenia go as he used a dark corridor to leave, allowing the twilight sky and darkened ground to revert to normal. Sora went to check on"Serenia, are you okay?"

The red-head nodded"Yeah, that was scary."

Illia frowned in confusion"What did he mean by 'Taios wasn't from Earth?'"

Cecil shifted back to his Paladin form"Forgive me, I acted rashly. Taios, would you mind explaining yourself?"

Taios let out a sigh"Might as well tell you... To an extant, I wasn't lying about living in Earth ... I was actually born in the kingdom underneath the Keyblade Graveyard."

Tyler was intrigued"The Keyblade Graveyard? That's the place where my mom, dad and Uncle Terra first fought Xehanort."

Sora crossed his arms in thought"There was a kingdom, there? So, how did you end up on Earth?"

"My parents sent me and my sister into the future to escape the war. They did the best they could to make sure lives can be spared in their kingdom... So they've sent us to earth as orphans until we could actually get back and rebuild" Taios elaborated.

Roddick raised an eyebrow"Then I'm guessing that fate had other plans."

Taios nodded"Yeah... Turns out I was part of some experiment to see what would happen if I were to change history in another universe."

Serenia was silent as she thought for a moment and said"First Yoran, then Questa, and now Taios... We seem to be hearing of or seeing people from the distant past, lately... N-not that its a bad thing."

Millie paled"You were some kind of experiment? That must've been awful."

Ceodore was curious"Who were your original parents, Taios? Er, excuse my curiosity."

Taios smiled"It's alright...I've made my peace with it... But from what I know from Master Yen Sid, My parents were King Aaron and Queen Cordelia. they were a sensible couple... but you wouldn't know them... and I wouldn't want to see them... from the letter they gave to the master... they told me to live my own life... and move forward... I guess I forgot about that after all this time."

Serenia gasped in surprise"You were a Prince, Taios?"

"Huh. You learn something every day" remarked Sora.

Tyler was amazed"What... Now that we know, d-do we have to start calling you Prince Taios, now?"

Taios shook his head with a smile"Tyler... I've lived most of my life as a kid not knowing whether I can have my next paycheck or not in a common job, not really knowing if my next meal is my last... I'd prefer that you treat me like an equal."

Tyler nodded"Okay."

"Since we're out of that mess, we might as well help deal with Asmodeus before we move on" said Sora.

Ronyx acknowledged"I don't mind your team remaining with us for the remainder of our mission. Let's go see the King of Van."

"Okay" Sora nodded.

Sora and Roddick led the way to Van Castle. Inside, they went into the throne room where the king, who was nearly up there in age, addressed them"I heard that you lot wish to slay the archfiend... but I have doubts weather you can even try. Many have tried to succeed."

"And yet we've just saved your kingdom from monsters that tried to kill your subjects" said Taios.

The King of Van was surprised"Is that so?"

Ronyx nodded"Yes, your highness."

The king thought for a moment"Hm. Perhaps there is potential in you, then. However, I must insist on testing your skill. Monsters are crawling within the labyrinth beneath this castle."

Tidus shrugged"Is that all?"

"We'll take care of the monsters" said Roddick.

"We'll be sure to pass it" grinned Taios.

Sora smiled"No problem."

Sora and Roddick's group headed to the underground Labyrinth, accompanied by the king's minister. The Minister instructed them"Go beyond this door and reach the exit safely. Complete this task and the trial will be over."

"Sounds simple enough" said Taios.

"But be warned. There are dark and dangerous creatures that not even I can comprehend" cautioned the older man.

Sora squared his shoulders"We'll keep it in mind."

Sora and Roddick led the way deep into the labyrinth, keeping an eye out for monsters. After solving a puzzle that required them to press certain switches, they entered a large area.

Taios frowned as he got a bad feeling"This is a total trap."

"Why would you say that?" said Millie, giving a curious look.

Taios scoffed"Come on, big area. Only one way out. It's kind of-" a group of Skullnant zombies appeared before them as Taios finished"obvious..."

Yuna summoned Ifrit to attack a Skullnut while Tidus rushed at a monster with Spiral Cut. Sora rushed in with a string of combos from his keyblade, and the others easily took care of the remaining Skullnuts.

Ceodore paled"Why am i having this feeling of deja vu?"

Taios facepalmed"Oh boy... THIS archfiend from Cecil's world..."

Cecil tensed"You mean-"

"Scarmiglione?" Ceodore finished.

"Impossible..." Kain murmured.

Ioshua was curious"Who's Scarmiglione?"

"A guy who can summon undead and use it to his advantage" said Taio.

"Look!" gasped Millie.

Scarmiglione started coming out of the ground in his undead self, looking as if he was in pain"uuuugughhhhh!"

"Undead are typically weak against Fire and Holy" said Yuna.

Sora shrugged"Something's not right, but let's do this."

Serenia and Tyler used Fira on Scarmiglione, followed by a cross slash from Ceodore and Kain. Taios then used shadow breaker on Scarmiglione, while the others used their special skills, and the result was that the undead archfiend was still in tact, but still in pain.

Scarmiglione groaned"uuuugghhhh! it hurts so much!"

"why can't you be a good little puppet and destroy them?" sighed a woman's voice. A woman walked from the darkened area and approached the group, she wore a dark blue robe long brown hair and held a purple baton while her eyes were shaded"And before you ask who I am, try to guess what empire I'm allied with. My name is styx."

Sora assumed a defensive stance"Let me guess, another of Saxito's lackeys."

"The Avalonian Empire..." Yuna trailed.

Tidus scoffed"We don't have time for your boss's games, lady."

"The only 'game' that Emperor Saxito is playing is manipulation to eliminate every god in the existence. And it is time for new life of evolution to take it's place!" Styx raised her baton and darkness infected Scarmiglione.

"Not if we have anything to say about it" said Sora.

"Saxito is being manipulated and you don't even know it, your already under Xehanort's power!" said Taios, using Thundaga on the Witch.

Tyler was confused"So Xehanort is the culprit, then?"

"Let's take care of these rejects, first" said Sora.

Yuna summonsed Ifrit, who attacked Scarmiglione with Meteor Strike. Tidus darted over to Styx and attempted a Spiral Cut attack while Roddick, Ronyx, Millie and Illia joined the fight with Scarmiglione.

Sora used Strike Raid on Styx, but she retaliated with an Undine cry, which felt like Leviathan's Tsunami, hit em' hard.

Taios: groaned"Guys! We need to use thunder based attacks!"

Yuna dismissed Ifrit and summons Ixion to cast Thunder on Styx. Sora and Serenia followed up with Thundara. The thunder strikes proved it was most effective against the witch, despite her retaliating with slow and undine cry.

Styx collapsed, but got back up"This isn't over. As soon as you realize what Saxito's true goal is, you'll be begging to side with him!" Styx then used a dark corridor to escape, and the undead archfiend faded into darkness.

"Didn't we know what Saxito was already planning?" said Tidus, confused.

"We do, but then again, Saxito's plans aren't what we expect" replied Taios.

"Yeah, Nobodies can be unpredictable" said Sora as he casts Cura on himself and his teammates.

"If everyone's okay, we should finish the trial and then return to King Van" said Roddick.

Yuna nodded"I believe the exit is nearby."

They left the labyrinth and proceeded back to the throne room. The King of Van was pleased to see they passed"I am most impressed. No one has ever claimed victory over my labriynth besides the four heroes. I am honored to say that you are most welcome to be handed with the kingdom's emblem."

Ronyx bowed"Thank you, your highness."

Sora and co receive the Van Emblem from the king, who addressed them once more"Oh, one more thing. Before I can grant you passage to the eye of truth, you must seek out the other 3 kingdoms for their emblems as well."

Roddick nodded. We will, your highness.

The group bowed in respect before leaving the castle. Ronyx addressed the others"Perhaps we should head for Silivant Kingdom, next."

Taios nodded"Alright, I'll call first nightshift whenever it gets dark."

The group headed north of Van towards Silivant. Sora, Roddick and Ronyx kept an eye out for monsters. At night, when they set up camp, Taios set the firewood and ignited them with a fire spell

Serenia piped"Um, Taios?"

"Yeah?" he said.

Serenia hesitated"There's a question i've been meaning to ask... you were only describing a small portion of earth... but i'd like to know more if that's alright."

Taios smiled"Well. Before the craziness happened, I lived a pretty normal life. I mean the economy and schools were somewhat terrible due to the greediness of Politicians. But they try thier hardest. The computer stuff I talked about in Weyard? People use various versions of it to have communications. Like cell phones, online dating, hacking, computer games to get the best items for your characters. The list goes on and on."

Serenia was amazed"Incredible."

Millie smiled"The people of Earth can do amazing things, huh?"

Illia shrugged"When you put It that way, yes. The Federation has expanded its existence beyond Earth, but its still our political and organizational core in our universe."

"So, do you and Illia and Ronyx come from the same 'planet', Taois?" inquired Roddick.

Taios shook his head"Not exactly. It's a similar version of Earth that's a little advanced in terms of going to the moon, but can't really go beyond it yet. And the thing is, is that we see other cultures in plays to try and understand what cultures would react... Though, the most annoying and infuriating part of it all, is that the holy wars is just so pretentious and stupid... Sometimes I wish religion was abolished... Course, it's only people who would go to extremes to keep said religon in tact."

"Hm. This Alternate Earth deal is a bit confusing" said Illia.

Ronyx shrugged"I suppose there's only so much we can understand through science..."

"But if not for religion, where would life had come from if not from gods? I've never really thought much of it" said Sora.

Yuna and Tidus had been busy preparing dinner.

Cecil shrugged as he set up his tent"we can only guess on what evolution really means."

Taios went quiet for a moment"You know... I'm not sure what i'm going to do after all this is over..."

Serenia gave a thoughtful look"Well, as for me, I still have a lot to learn as a Keyblade Master, still a few years until Tyler and I can earn our Mark of Mastery. I'll definately go back to studying under Master Aqua."

"Same here..." said Tyler.

Serenia thought for a moment"But, you know, I'm sure neither Master Aqua or my mom would mind if you would like to stay at Radiant Garden or the Land of Departure until you make up your mind, Taios... I-if that's what you'd like to do, that is."

"I know a world with a coliseum if you would like to hone your skills sometime, Taios" Sora offered.

Taios smiled for a moment before frowning"I know what your talking about Sora... and maybe I might do that... but I'm not sure if there's anything for a guy who's potentially dangerous... I mean... for all we know when and if Saxito and I return to the same person... What would I do to you guys? what would I say? I mean, I'm partially responsible for the deaths of countless millions. Would I have to face trial for the crimes against humanity?"

Sora was tempted to flick Taios' forehead"Again with that? It wasn't all your fault. My Nobody, Roxas returned to me a year after my first quest, and that didn't affect me, much. I don't think Saxito returning to your body will affect you too badly."

"What's done is done, we already know you meant no harm, Taios" said Cecil, calmly.

"They're right, please stop being so hard on yourself" said Serenia.

Tidus grinned"Hey, soup's up." He and Yuna had finished preparing soup for dinner and started passing it around.

Taios sighed"Sorry. I guess I care so much about you guys that I overreact at times."

Sora smiled"Its fine, just remember we'll always be on your side."

"Thank you" said Taios.

Sora nodded with a smile"You're welcome."

They silently ate dinner and prepared to sleep till morning. Taios had a random thought as they got ready"Before we hit the hay... There's a question I've been meaning to ask... why doesn't Kuja... wear any pants?"

Cecil shrugged"I have no idea."

"That's like asking us why the Cloud of Darkness had almost no clothes on or Kefka why he wears makeup when he doesn't even need to. But maybe Kuja just likes to cross-dress" said Tidus.

Yuna frowned"I don't know for sure, either. I guess only Kuja would know."

"Cause to me, it's ironically funny that he looks like a male stripper" grinned Taios.

Tidus suppressed a laugh"Yeah, I guess that's what he looks like."

At the Sanctuary of Harmony, Saxito was approaching the Goddess of Harmony herself, she was being guarded by Quinn. The Nobody smiled"Why hello, Cosmos. How's it going?"

Cosmos was surprised"How do you know of me? I do not recall seeing you, before.

The Warrior of Light stood at attention, keeping an eye on the intruder.

Saxito paid no heed as he addressed the Goddess"I know you by reputation from my somebody, Taios. And I have good news everyone! Sora and your other warriors found a lot of dawn shards in that abyss with a new ally as you can already guess. my name? Saxito. entrepreneur, information broker, Conqueror of the Avalon empire, and lastly... the Nobody who's committing a declaration of war to both Yoran, and you. Oh, and don't worry, I ain't gonna fight you today. Just giving you a heads up on your inevitable invasion. And no, I'm not with Chaos if that's what your thinking. I'm doing this because I hate gods and goddesses, minus Aphrodite."

The Warrior of Light sighed"I can't decide whether you're foolish to tell us of your plan. Cosmos, please permit me to dispatch this knave."

"Stay your sword, Quinn. I sense overwhelming power within this being. It would be disastrous for you to fight him, alone" said Cosmos before addressing Saxito"Saxito, correct? Conflict on the scale of which you describe may cause an a near end to all worlds. It would not be like the War of the Gods. But if you insist, my warriors will fight to the end. I do appreciate you speaking of what is to come, however."

Saxito smiled"Oh, no problem. I may be a ruthless tyrant, but I'm not one without being an opportunistic Politician. Oh, by the way, that power you feel? Yeah, that was Taios and Vanitas merging to make the X-blade. Funny thing, really. Change a major plot point in the past of another universe, and your basically nearly untouchable. Course, even when I die in the near future, my plan of destroying the source of all gods, as well as drawing out Bhunivelze himself will be so simple and easy. Laters!"

Saxito then walked away after handing Cosmos a box of assorted chocolates and a rose which didn't smell like it was poisoned. The Warrior of Light remained silent until Saxito is out of sight"That was... surprisingly generous of him to present you with these gifts. But how can we be certain they haven't been tampered with?"

Cosmos smiled briefly"One never knows until they try. As of now, I suppose we'll have to recall our allies from Land of Departure, and make certain... preparations. We should also attempt to parley with Yoran."

The Warrior of Light shrugged"If he can be trusted. But I will follow you on this."

Back on Roak, Sora and his group rested until morning and were continuing on their way to Silvilant Kingdom. Taios looked around"We haven't seen any monsters, yet... That's not a good sign."

Sora stopped to think about it"Hm. I can't put a finger on it, myself."

Millie looked around"Why do you think aren't we seeing anymore monsters? Not that its a bad thing."

Taios shrugged"well, in my experiences, you have to expect the worst."

They eventually reached Silivant only to have the Temperature rising as large as a magma rock in Weyard, and most of the kingdom was on fire, mainly because of the fire based monsters that were attacking the civilians and rounding them up, led by a tall dark skinned man with purple wild hair wearing a red tunic that is held in place by a golden belt and blue cord, scarlet gloves that extended to the mid arm, and military boots that leave his feet partially exposed. He also had a long scarf cape, which is held in place by two gold pauldrons, and he wore a circular white marking on his forehead, reminiscent of the Hindu religion.

The man snarled"Alright, you filthy maggots. We're going on a little trip. And unless you want to die, I'd suggest you do as I say."

Sora glanced ahead"This can't be good."

"Looks like more of the Avalon Empire's handiwork..." Tidus grimaced.

"Let's spread out and try to contain the damage" said Ronyx.

Sora, Tidus, Yuna, and Serenia raced towards the dark, red-clad man. Roddick, Cyuss, Ioshua, Mavelle, Ronyx, Millie and Illia went to intercept the fire monsters and save the people.

When Sora's group approached approached the man, he was looking at the horizon"Let me guess, you came to stop me, correct? I'm not sure if I should be surprised or amused." He turned to face them"My name is Baugauven. The archfiend of Fire. My exploits are not to be trifled with if you value your life."

"We won't lose!" said Tidus.

"Let's see you put your money where your mouth is" said Sora as he casted Blizzaga. Yuna summoned Shiva to help out. Baugauven wasn't a pushover, however. He narrowly dodged the Blizzaga spell, and severely attacked Tidus with both of his blades. And even though he retaliated with blitz ace, the flame archfiend threw a flare spell grenade at the group.

Baugauven sneered"Is this the extant of your powers? I expected more from the Warriors of Cosmos."

"Careful what you wish for" said Sora, casting Cura on the group before going for a Strike Raid and a Ragnarok Combo. Yuna instructed Shiva to use her Diamond Dust on Baugauven. The Fire Archfiend then staggered before throwing multiple flare spell grenades at the Aeon of Ice.

"Hahaha! Now this is more like it! Opponents that aren't holding back. Very good. Now I don't have to waste time!" cackled the Archfiend.

Just before Sora could attack, the temperature started to increase even more, and the archfiend of fire started to be on fire himself to the point where it manifested into a serpent of pure fire.

Ceodore gasped"It's too hot! How much fire can this guy take?"

"Shiva can't be in this kind of heat, for long" said Yuna, dismissing Shiva and summoning Bahamut.

Sora casted Blizzaga before going for Strike Raid.

Tidus groaned"Ugh! No kidding." He rushed over to Baugauven and attacked with Spiral Cut. Serenia followed suit with Blizzaga. Baugauven's flame serpent seemed to be doing all the fighting as it blocked the attacks, it seemed all hope was lost until Taios attacked Baugauven with a different keyblade that was cold as Shiva, Snow Fairy, which was slightly effective against them.

Baugauven was shocked"What?"

Taios smiled"Dude, I think it's time for you to take a chill pill! dark drive!"

A dark aura of malice filled Taios' body and he begun to rose off the ground, resulting in a move similar to Riku's dark aura ability, which felt more intense than most, but it did stagger Baugauven and destroy the fire serpent.

"Guys! now!" said Taios.

Sora unleashed a string of blows with his keyblade at Baugauven. Serenia and Tyler followed with Blizzaga. Tidus attacked hard with a Jecht Shot, getting out of the way for Bahamut to blast their fiery enemy with Mega Flare.

Baugauven collapsed, but got back up, laughing"hmhmhmhmhm. hahahahahaha! BAHAHAHAHAHA! that was the fun i've had in ages. No one has bested me in battle like that in years."

Tidus was shocked"what?! after all that he's still gets up?!"

Baugauven scoffed"It wasn't a full extant of my strength. If that was your full strength fighting me, then you wouldn't even have a chance to face Avalon head on. You wouldn't even survive a week."

"But we still beat you this fight" said Serenia.

Baugauven smiled"Only because Taios knew the only two things that can stop me. But imagine if he himself was captured by someone else and they had to rescue you with your mouth being tied up. What then?"

Taios was annoyed"tch..."

Baugauven smiled again"Anyways, there's no point to finishing you off now when theirs an invasion to Yoran's forces as well as your Goddess of Harmony. And when that time comes, all gods will parish."

"Not if we can help it" said Sora.

Tidus shrugged"We'll find a way to stop Avalon, and Saxito."

Baugauven smirked"Good, good. Always be strong in the hunt of battle. Otherwise you all aren't even worth my time. Just remember: you wouldn't last a week in our stronghold. Ten seconds in there will have constant wave after wave of fighting, never having a break for intruders." He left in a corridor of darkness.

Serenia paled"I don't like the sound of what we just heard."

"Well, now I know for a fact it would take more than brute force to reach Saxito in his lair" said Sora.

Tyler shrugged"If we could even find it..."

Taios thought for a moment"hmm..."

Yuna glanced over at him"Do you know where it could be, Taios?"

Taios shook his head"Well, I wouldn't know where it is... But maybe if we don't have the answers... We can probably ask Cosmos. I mean, she knows more about worlds than anyone of us here."

"And let's not forget that there's one more Dawn Shard" added Sora.

Tidus shrugged"Let's finish our business first, though."

Roddick's party approached, they had managed to defeat the fire monsters and save the people. Ronyx addressed Sora's group"The townspeople are safe. Is everything okay?"

Serenia nodded"So far."

Roddick turned in the direction of the castle"Let's go speak to the king of Silivant, then."

Taios smiled"And now he's gonna thank us with good news, everyone."

Sora shrugged"Well, we just did what we could."

Sora and Roddick's groups headed into Silivant Castle, only to see the castle scorched and the throne room was smelling like smoke. Taios addressed the king"I hope the damage wasn't severe, you majesty."

The King of Silivant shook his head"Not at all, but most of my guards had been killed. And you all are?"

"I'm Sora, and this is Taios. We saved the town" said Sora.

The King of Silivant was relieved"Oh, thank goodness. I'm afraid I cannot do very much in the way of thanks."

"Actually, we need the Silivant Emblem" said Millie, politely.

The King nodded"Very well, I shall entrust it to you, as thanks for saving my kingdom." He instructed his guard to hand them the Silivant Emblem.

Taios smiled"Thank you, we really appreciate this. And hopefully your kingdom can get repaired as we defeat Asmodeus."

The King of Silivant nodded"then our hopes rest within all of you. good luck."

The group left Silivant Castle and headed out. Ronyx addressed the others"Shall we head for Astral Kingdom, next?"

"Let's go" said Roddick.

They left Silivant by boarding a ship at the port and headed eastward towards Astral Kingdom.

Well, this is part one of the Eternal Sphere segment for you. Oh, and Avalon and the three generals in this chapter are from Final Fantasy Dimensions. I'll try to have the next chapter up tomorrow, if not much later. Honestly, it wasn't easy coming up with a title for this chapter that would fit. Oh, and again, I got some of the ideas for this chapter from Infinitestories. Same will go for the next one.

As for the potential pairings I mentioned near the beginning of the story, I might have to change those slightly. Even if I really do the pairings, a couple of those will most likely be platonic because Serenia, Tyler, and possibly Taios are still in their teens. I'll have to confirm the latter with Infinite, if he's even okay with a possible friendship pair-up with a female character. Uh, no offense Infinitestories, if you happen to read this chapter.

Please feel free to review. Oh, and I know that I didn't show Roddick's group fighting off the fire monsters, but I was trying to keep it focused on Sora's group as they are the main characters.