Here you go, the second part of the Eternal Sphere segment.
Disclaimer: Kingdom Hearts and Final Fantasy were created by Square Enix. Tri Ace was responsible for Star Ocean and its characters, locations, etc.
Eternal Sphere Part 2-Unexpected Allies
The ship eventually docked at Tropp. Cecil paused as they disembarked and headed to Tetroi"I realized something. So far we've faced against 3 archfiends... I'm to guess we'll be facing against the last one, too."
"Just be prepared for anything" advised Taios.
Sora nodded"We'll keep it in mind."
They eventually arrived at Astral via Tetroi, Astral City felt a bit windy than when Cyuss, Roddick and Illia last visited, as they saw roses being unnaturally grown from buildings, and some of the pedals flew off from the wind.
Ilia frowned"Roses?"
Roddick looked around"Something's not right."
Taios spotted a scythe coming and Millie and pushed to push her out of the way"Look out!" he barely managed to move Millie before the scythe could hit her.
A pink-haired man came into view with a sigh"And here I thought I wouldn't miss."
Sora glanced at him"Huh?"
"Long time no see, Sora" said the man.
Sora was puzzled"Do I know you?"
The man bristled"You seriously don't remember me? Ah, Namine must have erased your memory of Castle Oblivion. No matter, I shall have revenge. I am Lumaria, or Marluxia as number 15's Somebody should recall."
"And if I recall correctly, you failed to turn Sora into your puppet to overthrow the organization. How ironic that you would be willing to serve my nobody when you yourself just wants the keyblade when it chooses someone who isn't a coward" said Taios, scathingly.
"Like I care. Enough talk, revenge is my mission. Now, shall we settle this?" grinned Lumaria, readying his scythe.
"Bring it on!" challenged Sora.
Sora and Taios summed their keyblades and rushed to attack Lumaria. Lumaria dodged and swung his scythe. Sora jumped back and countered with Fira. Lumaria staggered, but teleported and summoned forth a hail of magical thorny roses to bombard the group. Serenia countered with Firaga, only for Lumaria to teleport and land in front of her, scythe at the ready.
"Looks like I've got no choice!" Taios began to unleash a limit break, which started off with A fever pitch command style mixed with time splicer attack, and the final touch, Was a wing blade blast, knocking Lumaria back.
"Now!" cried Taios.
Sora attacked Lumaria with Strike Raid, followed by a jump attack from Kain. Lumaria staggered back"Impressive." He summoned another rose thorn deluge, only for Taios to use his magic to create made from malice which caused the thorns to vanish at first, but unexpectedly attacked Lumaria from behind.
"Argh!" Lumaria gasped, before getting up"... Hmph. I can see I am wasting time with these foolish games. I have to destroy you all here and now!"
"Accept it, you're outmatched" quipped Serenia.
Lumaria scoffed"Not by a long shot. I'll show you the full might of the Graceful Assassin!" He used the power of darkness to summon his mech and got onboard. Flower petal turrets began firing lasers at them.
Sora dodged"Don't get too cocky with us."
Yuna summoned Bahamut to aid in the fight.
Lumaria snarled"sink into the darkness!" He and his mech flew high in the air as he threw one of his giant scythes directly at Serenia, causing 3 giant fissures to occur, minus the fact that she just barely dodged the attack. But the result of the blast created a lot of carnage to the townspeople.
Cyruss paled"Oh, crud. Phia's not gonna like this."
Tidus got out his Blitzball and used a well-aimed Jecht Shot on the mech, which barely fazed it. Sora shot the monstrosity with Thundara, dodging petal lasers while he was at it. Bahamut hit Lumaria with Blizzaga before being dismissed by Yuna. The Summoner summoned Valefor to attack the mech with a Energy Beam. Lumaria grunted as he felt his mech shaking from the damage and throws another giant scythe at Yuna, who barely managed to dodge it.
Sora healed his allies before say"We might need to get to the top to stop it quickly enough."
"Not a problem for me" said Kain. He jumped to the top of the mech to attack Lumaria, directly. Kain's dragoon jump barely fazed Lumaria, who retaliated by attacking with energy beams.
Taios pulled out his wayfinder"I need help, Master Otenko! please! lend me your help!"
Three orbs of light started to surround Taios and started to transform his keyblade into the Holy Redeemer and started to hover a little
Lumaria was surprised"What? This light. How did you-"
"Yuna! Sora! Cecil! we're gonna pull off an ultimara!" said Taios.
"Right" said Sora, readying himself.
"I shall give it my all" said Cecil.
"I'll do my best" Yuna readied her staff.
The three began to gather holy energy as Taios started to absorb it while the rest were trying to draw Lumaria's Fire. The trio gathered the maximum amount they could muster and the most epic line anyone could say in any form of action filled fiction came out of Taios' mouth as he aimed his keyblade at Lumaria himself"Go to hell you ba$tard." Taios fired a Holy ball of energy, which did little at first.
Lumaria smirked"Ha! You failed!"
"Wait for it..." murmured Taios.
Small Holy explosions began pooping on the mech, growing larger and larger and exploding in a massive shockwave of light. Quakes could be felt in the process.
"No... noooooooooooooooooooo! Lumaria cried as his mech exploded and vanished in a flash of light, Sora and the others had to shield their eyes for a moment. When it dissipated, Lumaria wasn't anywhere to be seen.
Illia looked around"Think he's dead?"
"I dunno if he could've gotten off the mech in time, even with the power of darkness" shrugged Sora.
Cecil looked around"I just hope the city wasn't too badly damaged."
Sora, Tidus and Roddick also glanced around the city to be on the safe side. Taios was extremely tired from the spell"That took more energy than I used."
"Are you going to be alright?" The Paladin asked with a concerned look.
Taios nodded"I don't think I'll be able to use that team ability for a month. That power took a lot out of me."
Sora handed a Hi-Ether to Taios"Well, our supplies should still be enough to last us a while longer."
"We can rest up for a bit if we need to. We'll have to explain to the King of Astral what just happened, though" said Roddick.
Taios squared his shoulders"I'll try to find a shop if there is any..."
Yuna shook her head"No... You've overworked yourself. I'll go."
"We'd best recuperate at the inn since Taios is hardly in any shape to go on" said Kain.
"I'll go with you, Yuna" said Tidus.
"Thank you" acknowledged Yuna, she and Tidus split to go shopping.
"Roddick, Cyuss, Illia, Millie and I can go see the King of Astral to ask for the Astral Emblem, in the meantime" said Ronyx.
"I'll come along with you to the castle, Ronyx" piped Sora.
Taios noded as he limped to the inn with Kain's help"Good... see what info you can get... thanks."
"Don't mention it" Kain grunted.
Sora's group entered the Astral Manor... or what was left of it anyways. as some of the furniture was vaporized. A red-headed female knight noticed them and slapped Cyuss in the face"What the hell, Cyuss?! People are dead! almost everyone is F*king dead because of that guy!"
Cyuss rubbed his face"Yeah, I can tell. The guy's history, though. Sorry I wasn't there."
Sora looked at the 'couple'"Do you know each other?"
Cyuss nodded"Yeah, she's Phia Melle, one of Astral's knights."
Outside, Tidus and Yuna shopped for a bit before going to the inn. Taios was resting in a bed when he saw the two enter"Oh, good, you got the supplies."
"No problem" Tidus smiled.
"These supplies can hold us over until we go back" said Taios.
Phia nodded, still irked with the Highlander"Yeah, one of the last 37 Astral Knights. Our home is nearly defenseless thanks to that pink-haired guy and his attacking plant life that nearly stole one of our most sacred treasures. So what do you even want, Cyuss?"
"We came to get the emblem" said Cyuss.
Phia sighed"Hhmph, I see... And you all intend to take on the archfiend?"
Roddick nodded"yes."
"We need to speak with your king to ask him for the emblem" Ronyx elaborated.
Phia nodded and began walking"Very well, then. I will escort you to his majesty."
"Thanks. I'm Sora, by the way" said Sora.
Phia shrugged"As much as I want to greet you properly, we all have jobs to do. I'm sure you can understand, Sora."
Sora smiled"I can understand."
They arrived at the throne room where the King of Astral, a dark-skinned man, sat. Phia knelt before her king"Your majesty, they're the ones that stopped that evil man."
The King of Astral was pleasantly surprised"Truly? You all have my thanks."
Sora smiled"It was no problem, your majesty."
Ronyx stepped forward a bit"Your highness, we came to ask for a favor. We need the Astral Emblem."
"You intend to defeat the Archfiend?" The king asked.
Roddick nodded"Yes, your highness."
"Then, I leave this in your hands" said the king, handing over the Astral Emblem.
Roddick bowed"Thank you, your highness."
As Roddick and Sora started to lead their group out of the castle, Phia caught up to them"Wait."
Sora turned to address the Astral Knight"Yes?"
Sora: Yes?
"I'd like to join your group, the least I could do is help contribute to defeating the Archfiend" Phia requested.
"I don't mind" said Roddick"We need all the help we can get."
Sora smiled"I don't have a problem with it."
"Then I will let the king know I'll be absent. Where shall I meet you?" inquired Phia.
"We're going to Muah, next. However, some of our companions are resting at the inn. We're going back to check on them" explained Roddick.
Phia nodded before going back to let her king know and get his permission to join Roddick's group"Then I shall see you there."
Meanwhile, in a gigantic nobody warship, Kairi was being guided to a personal cabin by one of Saxito's soldiers, where the most exotic food and drinks were on a large table.
Saxito smiled"welcome, Kairi. I hope your cell isn't too uncomfy for you."
"Its not the first time I was in such a cramped place" Kairi shrugged.
Saxito nodded"Just making sure. Come. Sit. I have plenty to eat and I can only share with my most loyal soldiers and unfortunate prisoners. Which I'm sorry it had to be like this. But I have no other alternative."
Kairi sighed"Well, I guess I am a bit hungry." She sat down to eat a bowl of salad.
Saxito smiled"You're probably wondering why your here. To put it simply... I want to get you up to date on current events."
Kairi shrugged"Well, yeah, I'd like to know what's going on."
"Basically, Kairi, is that Sora and the others are in this abyss that houses other worlds that aren't accessible by gummi ship to obtain shards that can, in their minds, stop Yoran's Twilight Crystal Eclipse. But what they don't realize is that I am using them to get the dawn shards for me, to execute my true plan which I'm not dumb enough to actually tell you at present."
Kairi was silent for a moment"I... see. Well, I know Sora's always been able to overcome the odds, so whatever your little plan is, you won't succeed."
"Ok, then. Believe what you want. Even if Sora does kill me, it won't change the fact that my plan will succeed" said Saxito, coolly.
Kairi silently ate a bit more to keep herself calm before saying"Neither of us would know for sure until it happens."
Saxito was unfazed"True, the future isn't set in stone... Tell ya what. If you can guess what my plan is, I'll invade Yoran's territory first, giving Cosmos a break."
Kairi put two and two together"Well, if it involves both Cosmos and me... Wait a minute, does it by any chance involve Kingdom Hearts?"
Saxito nodded"I'm surprised you guessed the right answer so quickly... and instead of conquering and controlling it like Xemnas, Ansem SOD and Xehanort had...The smart thing, would be to destroy it, rendering the Realm of Darkness completely and 100% pointless."
Kairi paled"Why would you want to do that?"
"Because Kingdom hearts is what's causing the realm of darkness to exist in the first place. Plus the fact that Xehanort wants to control it for his own gain. Imagine if Serenia was killed right in front of you, and you had no one to rely on, and the only way to stop the villain is by destroying the very thing he/she desired... what would you do?" asked Saxito with a twisted grin.
Kairi hesitated before replying"I would be sad and angry of course, but I wouldn't want to destroy others."
Back on Roak, Sora's group returned to the inn, joined shortly by Phia. Taios addressed the red-headed newcomer as they entered"Let me guess, your here to join our party against the archfiend."
Phia nodded"Correct, I am Phia Melle."
"My name Kain Highwind" said the Dragoon.
Taios nodded"And I'm Taios, this is Tidus and Yuna. With the help of my friends, I was able to fire that ball of light at that big jack-off."
"My name is Cecil" spoke the Paladin.
"I'm Ceodore" piped the Baronian Prince.
Phia acknowledged"Pleasure. And it seems that the kingdom owes some gratitude to you, as well."
"Feeling better, Taios?" asked Sora.
The younger brunette shrugged"I think so... But I don't think I'll be able to use that move for while."
Sora smiled"That's okay."
"So, is everyone ready?" said Roddick.
Kain nodded"I believe so. We are headed for Muah, correct?"
"Yes" confirmed Ronyx.
The group headed off to Muah Kingdom by ship. Taios glanced ahead as they neared Muah's Port"Almost there."
Sora's group approached Muah Kingdom and head towards the castle. Taios reached for his forehead as he felt a tingling sensation.
"What is it, Taios?" said Cecil.
Taios was silent for a moment"I-... have this feeling... that I'm talking with Kairi."
Sora frowned"Its because of your Nobody, isn't it? I only hope Saxito hasn't tried anything."
Taios shook his head"... no... he's only having... dinner with her... and I think I know what his plan is... but it's far worse than what Xehanort is planning."
Sereni paled and gave a scared look"Wh- what is h-he after then?"
"Kaboom heart of all worlds. I think that's proof enough to stop him" said Taios.
Sora sighed"Saxito is definitely the worst."
"No kidding" said Tidus.
Sora shrugged"Well, for now, let's head for Muah Castle."
They continue on to the center of town where the castle is located. Taios glanced ahead"It's a little bigger than I remember."
"You've seen it before? I haven't been the last time Roddick and I passed through the town on our way to Astral" said Illia.
Roddick addressed the guards in front of the castle"Excuse me, we need to see your king."
The Guardsman looked at them for a moment"Very well, I shall inform the Minister. Wait here."
Roddick nodded as the guard went in. Taios responded to Illia"In the alternate Earth, the simulations show this place a little smaller."
"When you put it that way..." Illia trailed off, not sure what else to say.
The King of Muah's Minister approached Sora's party"Good afternoon, what is your business here?"
"We came here to ask the king for the Muah Emblem" said Roddick.
The Minister nodded"I see. Well, before I can arrange an audience with his majesty, I must ask a favor."
Taios acknowledged"anything."
"Our Royal Treasury has recently become infested with monsters" said the Minister.
"And you want us to get rid of them, right?" asked Sora.
The Minister nodded"Precisely. I will show you the way to the treasury." The Minister led them into the Castle towards the Treasury"The monsters are unlike anything I've seen. I suspect that they will prove formidable."
"No problem for us" said Tidus, optimistically.
"I am glad to hear that. You will also find weapons inside to help you against the creatures. These weapons are powerful, but they are among Muah's ancient, valuable treasures. If you must borrow the weapons, you will have to return them once you have purged the treasury of the beasts" The Minister requested.
"I suppose it would be too much to ask if we can keep them" said Illia.
"Thank you" acknowledged the Minister.
Sora and Roddick's groups headed into the treasury. A swarm of Darkball Heartless and some of Roak's monsters met them as they went to the second basement of the area.
"Time to get to work" said Sora, destroying a Darkball with Strike Raid before attacking another one. Cyuss, Phia and Roddick charged at three more of the Darkballs, hacking at their opponents.
Eventually, two Invisables entered the scene and lumbered towards the group.
"Sora behind you!" cried Taios, using a Holy Smite spell.
"Huh?" Sora quickly turned and attacked the Invisables with Thundaga. Ronyx and Mavelle blasted back some monsters with Symbology while Serenia, Tyler, Cecil, Ceodore and Kain cut through more Darkballs.
Taios threw his Keyblade to Sora"Firaga!"
Sora caught the keyblade, cut through the Invisables and tosses it back to Taios. Roddick, Phia, Serenia, Tidus, Cyuss and Millie defeated the remaining darkballs with little difficulty. Sora's group defeated the attacking monsters and proceeded into the furthest chambers of the treasury.
"There, we're almost close" breathed Taios.
As Sora and co entered the deepest part of the treasury, a Succumbus appears to meet them there when lightning-fast daggers finished it for them. Sora looked around"Huh?"
"Oh, ho, how easy this is" grinned a blond woman, steeping out from the shadows and sending a blast of lightning magic at Sora. A group of Elemental Heartless appeared as well. Sora quickly reduced the magic's effectiveness with Aero.
Taios summoned his keyblade"You! your Larxene's somebody!"
Arlene grinned"Good to see you, pretty boy. And you are number XV's Somebody, eh?" She Unleashed lightning fast daggers at the group and charged at Sora. Roddick, Cyuss, Phia, Serenia and Tyler took point against the Elemental Heartless.
Arlene lunged at Sora with a slash of her daggers, only for him to dodge narrowly and slash her across the chest. Serenia pitched in with Blizzaga. The blond angrily warped backwards and attempted a Thundaga spell on the group.
Taios proceed to use time splicer on the blonde, before grabbing her clothes and spinning, then slamming her entire body to the ground"Sora, now!" He quickly got off her.
"Right!" Sora rushed towards Arlene and hit her with Strike Raid, followed by a Blitz Ace attack from Tidus, knocking her down with a hard hit.
"Looks like you lost" said the Dragoon.
Arlene gasped out her last breath"I regret nothing... My duty is done...! You cannot stop Avalon... anyway..." Yuna sent Arlene to the Farplane, seeing that she had died.
Sora shrugged"I feel a little bad about killing her, but there was no avoiding it. Let's go back to tell the Minister."
Taios was silent for a moment"I have a feeling that this isn't the last we've seen her."
"What do you mean? I mean, the dead can't leave the Farplane once they've been Sent there, can they?" said Tidus, confused.
Yuna shrugged"Depends on how sensitive they are and how stable the Farplane is, I guess."
Sora and Roddick began to lead the way out of the treasury. Taios elaborated"from my experience in videogames... there's always a chance that we get to fight all the important bosses of the past... and my gut is telling me that we haven't seen the last of her or any other generals."
Roddick squared his shoulders"Then we'll have to be prepared for anything... even though the first part I didn't understand."
"Its pretty advanced stuff, so I understand your confusion, Roddick" said Illia, thoughtfully.
They returned to the main castle to report to the Minister. Sora piped up" We defeated the monsters."
The Minister was relieved"Ah. Good, thank you for your help. I shall take you to see our king, as promised."
The Minister led the way into the throne room. Taios addressed the King"We've passed the test, your majesty."
"Ah, wonderful. I now present you this emblem of our kingdom" said the king of Muah, giving them the Muah Emblem.
Ronyx bowed"Thank you, your majesty."
"Best of luck to you on your quest" acknowledged the king.
Sora's group headed out of Muah Castle. Ronyx addressed the group"Let's go back to Van Kingdom."
Meanwhile, just a short while earlier, Saxito had just found Yoran's hideout thanks to Arlene's info and he came to the entrance"Wow... this is Yoran's hideout? Wow... this a bit lame."
Caius had recently returned from facing off against the heroes stationed at the Land of Departure yesterday and saw Saxito"I do not recall seeing you, before."
Kuja appeared to greet the Nobody"Oh dear, we do seem to have an unexpected guest."
"How did you find this place?" inquired Caius.
Saxito smiled"I have resources, Caius. I'm really well informed about who your working for... plus, shouldn't you be with that Seeress kid you claim you care about, but clearly your doing the dumb thing?"
Caius frowned"You know about Yuel? I have my own reasons for aiding Yoran, namely to get to Eltro. Why are you here?"
Saxito gave him an insane smirk"I'll let my lackey do the talking."
Baugauven walked in"We're here to invade this petty stronghold." He got into a battle stance and faced Caius.
Caius sighed"Fools." He unleashesd Mega Flare at Baugauven before going for a slash attack, which the Fire Archfiend blocked.
Kuja smirked"I suppose we'll entertain you here, for a while. You do not belong on this stage, all actors must know their roles." He warped towards Saxito and attempted to fry him with Flare Star.
Saxito had his eyes shaded with a twisted smirk as he warpped behind kuja using his confetti static and quickly grabbed him at the neck where it connected to the socket of the head, creepily whispering into his ear"How does it feel to have everything you knew ripped apart? Oh... I get it now. You're all butt-hurt that you became a failure in Garland's eyes... and the fact that you didn't get laid like Zidane did." He squeezed Kuja's socket.
"Argh!" Kuja groaned.
Saxito gave a twisted smirk"Heheheheheheheh. Yes, the pain must be hurting you. I guess I understand why Kefka finds torturing you enjoyable." He squeezed harder.
Kuja screamed in agony with a look of fear"Argh!... let... let go of me!"
Saxito just smiled with twisted amusement"Oh, look. The gay stripper is begging for mercy. Oh, the anvil of irony."
Caius stopped attacking Baugauven to see Kuja being manhandled by Saxito"Perhaps we underestimated you. What do you want with Yoran?"
Nearby, Yoran felt a dark presence and came across the scene"Hm. Seems like I have a fly to swat."
Saxito sneered"Tell your nice boss that I need his Twilight Crystal. Course, I could always force Kuja and Kairi to have sex just because it's funny."
Kuja paled"You-... you're more deranged than Kefka."
Saxito gave a twisted sneer"Aww... isn't this adorable? the whinny chiwawa is wanting to be even more lamer than he already is." He get go of Kuja when he spotted Yoran"Well, look who's finally here." He let Kuja go as Saxito smirked some more"helllllloooooo Yoran. How's it going? Enjoying my army invading your territory?" Kuja backed away in terror.
Yoran grimaced"Good as ever, but as for your 'army' invading my turf, I'll have you know I am not to be trifled with." He summoned his keyblade: The Sun Crest and pointed it at Saxito"What might your name be, by any chance? And how is it you know about me?"
Caius stopped to observe the exchange.
"Try thinking for once, Yoran. You know who I am. Well, you know my somebody. I'm Saxito" said the Nobody, summoning his Nothing to Something keyblade"And you used to work for my dad, King Aaron before the war when you were alive. Ring any bells?"
Yoran smiled slightly at the memory"Ah, yes, Lord Aaron was a great leader. And you're telling me that Prince Taios is alive and well in this era? Last I heard of the boy, he was sent away from the wars. Come to think of it, you have the same eyes he does, almost. Perhaps its best if I return you to your body, Saxito. The way you act, you insult the very name of King Aaron's family."
Saxito scoffed"And you think you're doing better? And also, by the way? I'm not doing this because of family... I'm doing this because I want revenge for the death of my loved one that Xemnas forced me to fight in another universe. Now. If you would be so kind as to hand over the twilight crystal, I can prepare for my true plan."
"I am sorry for your loss, or I should say Prince Taios' loss. However, I am not at liberty to just give you the crystal. Your petty act of vengeance may cause the destruction of worlds, which I will not allow" said Yoran, unleashing Holy at Saxito before moving in with a slash.
Saxito just let Yoran attack, and he did the strongest attacks in his arsenal and nothing was happening to Saxito. Something in the nobody's aura was just wrong. It felt like every hit done to saxito just didn't do a thing "Wow... is that ALL you can do, Yoran? Heh. I always thought you were one step ahead. Guess I overestimated you."
Yoran was surprised"What... How? My attacks have no effect."
Caius shrugged as he teleported away"I suppose you outlived your usefulness, Yoran. Now, I'm afraid I must be off to find Yuel and Etro."
Kuja yawned"It is about time for Chaos to resurrect, anyway. I, too, shall bow out of the stage." The silver-haired Genome warped away.
Saxito smirked"Wow... Caius is more believable... but Kuja, I can't really take seriously. But yeah... the thing is, the crystal you have, is effecting your powers. And it doesn't allow me to be harmed... gotta hand it to pops. Technology that makes ya almost into a god... but not really. Now, would you kindly hand it over before I go? I could always send you back to the Farplane."
Yoran sighed"Blast you, Caius! I suppose there's nothing to be done. I could simply shatter the crystal, but I am hardly in any position to do so." He handed over the Twilight Crystal.
Saxito smiled"Thank you for your cooperation. Now that I have what I want, I can start my plan of destroy Kingdom Hearts."
Saxito begun leaving the base with Yoran shocked. The purple-haired keybearer sighed"So its over..."
A female voice called"Yoran!"
Yoran was surprised"! Questa?"
His former love smiled"I finally found you..."
Yoran smiled back"So, its you. When I woke, we were separated."
Questa nodded"I know... And I was told, that you..."
"I'm ashamed to admit that I got carried away. And believe it or not, Prince Taios is alive" said Yoran.
Questa's eyes widened"Our prince? So the kingdom's legacy still lives on..."
Yoran nodded"I don't know what condition he's in. But the one we must worry about is Saxito. I have enabled him to take the Twilight Crystal and use it to destroy Kingdom Hearts. We must find Sora and the prince, then stop Saxito. I'm sorry to put you through yet another war."
Questa smiled reassuringly"Its fine, I'd rather help set things right than do nothing. I knew that you couldn't have become entirely corrupt during our time as Unsent."
Questa summoned her keyblade glider and armor"I don't know where Sora is at the moment, but I have a hunch. Can you still summon your armor and glider?"
Yoran nodded"Yes." He transformed into his blue and black armored form and summoned a glider. The pair set off to look for Taios, heading to a part of space where the Abyss could be seen.
"There's a barrier that prevents most modes of transportation into the abyss, over there. Even if we get inside, I don't know which world to look in" informed Questa.
Yoran acknowledged"I've been keeping track of Sora's whereabouts until Saxito's attack on my hideaway. They've previously been to the Grand Line, Game Central Space, Hotel Transylvania, Subspace, Tattooine, Yavin and Weyard."
Questa smiled"Perfect, let me get us in there."
The two unsent warp themselves past the barrier towards Ancient Roak.
Elsewhere In the Lanes Between, the vast nobody armada started to appear from a giant whirlwind portal of nothingness... as the lead ship lead them at the edge of the realm of light
Saxito watched the horizon as Kairi came in"Hey, Kairi... I wanted you to come over here to witness my mass invasion of the realm of light. I know your going to say, Saxito, your a madman!' Well, to be honest... I don't care. the gods draw power from kingdom hearts... I'm going to invade the worlds just so I can abduct the people."
Kairi looked fearful as she just shrank back"You won't get away with this."
Saxito smiled"of course, I don't expect to get away with it... but it sure is gonna be fun. Go ahead. Say it. Say I'm a monster. It makes the invasion all more enjoyable."
Kairi paled"You really are a monster, guess we can both agree with that. When Sora and Riku are through with you, you'll be lucky you won't really be dead, instead back inside your original self."
Saxito shook his head with amusement"Still. Even if when I'm gone, Bhunivelze will show up. And when he does... things will look badly for all the gods in every world."
Kairi gasped"What's so scary about this 'Bhunivelze'?"
"Think, god of all gods, destroying both light and dark realms and starting over" said Saxito.
"But why would he do such a thing, if he even exists? He must know that it was all your and Yoran's doing" said Kairi, confused.
"Because he can't really see what goes on in the unseen realm. So he uses gods and goddesses to keep himself well informed. Without the power source, he'll actually destroy all worlds and rebuild them from scratch, thus making Sora and co unable to stop him, and completing my plan of killing every single god, that has ever existed. Chaos included. Forever" Saxito replied, darkly.
Kairi paled"You're horrible!"
But as Kairi tried to run for the hanger, Saxito called after her"You can try to escape, Kairi, but as soon as you do, the cold vaccuum of space, as well as my armada will just stop you and blast you to pieces."
Kairi stopped in her tracks"Well, how long do you really need to keep me hostage? I've got nothing you would want."
Saxito smiled"Until Sora and the others give me all the dawn shards, your stuck with me. Unless you prefer that I hold Serenia hostage?"
Kairi sighed"And I guess there's no reasoning with you, either. I already told you to leave Serenia out of it!"
Saxito shook his head, amused"And I want you to cooperate. Of course I want to return you to Sora... but first they need to hand over the dawn shards. If not... well... I bet Serenia would make a much more fun hostage than you."
Kairi just glared at Saxito and headed back to her cell. Saxito called after her again"Don't worry, Kairi. You'll be able to return as soon as I have the Dawn Shards."
On Roak, Taios walked until he stopped"I'm smelling Keyblade Armor, and its coming in this direction."
"Who could it... Wait, did Questa already find Yoran's lair?" inquired Sora.
Questa sensed the group's pressence"Yoran, I got something. A strong light, an aura similar to that of the late King Aaron. Has a mix of Darkness, too... And not just one such presence, either."
"Which world is it coming from?" Yoran responded.
"Let's try there" said Questa, pointing towards the Earth-like planet. They flew to Roak, tracking the aura of light and darkness. Much to the surprise of Roddick's group, they land in front of the group, disembarking from their gliders.
Roddick glanced at the newcomers"Huh?"
Yoran and Questa dismissed their armor.
Saxito: think god of all gods destroying both light and dark realms and starting over.
Sora recognized the girl"Questa!"
Taios acknowledged the two"So your Questa... and I'm guessing you're Yoran..."
Yoran nodded"Indeed. My name is Yoran Sanhille."
"So you're the cause of the eclipse!" said Sora, tense.
Yoran nodded again"I don't deny it. But the millennium-year Twilight Eclipse can only be permanently dispelled by an artifact that was only truly visible while its in effect. That was my true goal."
Questa addressed Taios"Yes, I am Questa. Are you Prince Taios by any chance? You look much like King Aaron when he was alive."
Taios shrugged"Yeah, I'm a prince... and I'm assuming you both worked with my dad at some point..."
"We did, hundreds of years ago" Yoran acknowledged.
Sora was quiet for a momen"You know, the hero of the war back then... I didn't know what to think. The book I read stated two heroes who fought on the side of light in the war, but nothing was mentioned about a king or a lost kingdom, or anything like that. All the book said that the hero defeated the Dark Keybearer of that time. Then again, that's as far as I've read. Knowing you were the hero, I have mixed thoughts about you."
Yoran was a bit flattered"I'm no hero, merely did what was best for the World Order at the time. Sora, correct? And Prince Taios, if you are by any chance going against Saxito, Questa and I will render you our aid. That is, if you'll allow it. Our kingdom may be lost, but I have not completely forgotten the oath I swore to your father, and his kingdom."
Taios hesitated"I'm not sure if you both should even join us, considering all you've done... but we're out of options here. And Saxito needs to be stopped."
Questa nodded"Thank you, we'll assist you the best we can."
"Saxito will likely have a army at his disposal. Even if we by any chance acquire the means of dispelling the Twilight Eclipse, we'll be outnumbered. I do not think he was bluffing when he mentioned it. Once the Twilight Eclipse Is dispelled for good, I can rest in peace" said Yoran.
"Then we'll just have to get the rest of Cosmos's warriors' help, warn Cosmos and see if we can't ask Luffy's Pirates, Felix's group and maybe Ralph, the blond Sergeant and Fix-It to help once we get the last of the shards. Leon and his group would also be of help. Its too big of a job for just us and the World Order Defense Force. For now, we're helping Roddick's team defeat Asmodeus, who's causing trouble on his world" said Sora, confidently.
Questa frowned"We may not have much time, but we'll aid you in defeating Asmodeus, and go with you wherever you need to. But Sora, you should know we mustn't interfere too heavily with the affairs of other worlds."
Sora shrugged"I know, but we can't let Saxtio win, either."
Ronyx acknowledged"I would also like to volunteer our assistance, if my group is willing. But Illia, myself and the rest of the Terran Alliance have our own problems. We're going to Van to let the king know we have the other three emblems, and we will need the Eye of Truth to enter the Demon World to find Arcchfiend Asmodeus."
"Let me guess, we gotta get the arch-fiends blood for a vaccine" said Taios.
Millie was shocked"how did you know?"
"I don't have to say it, cause you guys already know" said Taos.
"Because according to Taios, this world is viewed through some kind of simulation program, or video games as Taios said they were" supplied Sora.
"I don't play many games, so I wouldn't even know. I'm more of a alcohol-consumer kind of gal. So, if everyone is ready, shall we get going?" prompted Ilia.
The group headed off to Van Kingdom. When they arrived and went to see the King of Van, Taios addressed him"We got all four emblems."
Its okay, and I may not even remember the exact script...
The King of Van nodded"Ah, excellent. Now, in order to find the Eye of Truth, there's something you must know."
"Where can we find it, your highness?" asked the blue-haired Fellpool.
"Inside a ruin to the north of Tritori and Astral, inside Astral Kingdom. It is called the Purgatorium" the king explained.
Roddick was puzzled"The Purgatorium?"
"Haven't we already been there?" said Millie, quizzically.
Yoran nodded"then lets not waste any time and get there."
Sora squared his shoulders"Right."
Sora's group left the castle after thanking King Van for the information. Yuna asked Taios along the way"What does the Purgatorium look like?"
"It's old and having an almost like a religious thing" replied Taios.
Tyler paled"Sounds kinda eerie."
Serenia shrugged"Well, we won't know until we get there."
Tidus was curious"So it was some kind of religious building or something?"
Illia shook her head"Not exactly."
"The only scary thing about the Purgatorium are the monsters that roamed inside it. Last I checked, there were these runes at what my team assumes is the deepest part of the ruins. That was shortly after I met Ioshua" supplied Roddick.
They headed past Tetori and Astral, through a cave and arrived at the ruins. Taios breathed"Okay, I'm feeling a techno-vibe coming on... and it's a lot deeper within the Purgatorium."
Sora nodded"All right, but let's stay alert."
They navigated their way through the Purgatorium, taking the secret entrance. Yoran, Questa and Sora kept on alert as they entered the room where the three runes were.
Taios walked in front of them, summoning Horizon's Eclipse"There's something here... and there's a hidden door I'm smelling."
"I sense it, too" murmured Questa.
Roddick looked around"Where's this hidden door?"
Yoran kept his keyblade out"Right in front of us."
The prince, and the two unsent pointed their keyblades at the wall, as a golden keyhole started to form... but it only showed the top half... until the four emblems started glowing and finished the other, which the three and Sora begun to unlock the keyhole, and a doorway opened.
Tyler took a breath"Ok... I really didn't expect this."
Ronyx was also surprised"Incredible."
They proceeded deeper into the Purgatorium until they reached the main computer room and Taios walked up to the console as if he was in a trance, they were about to wake him up but Questa stopped them"Don't... interrupting the process might hurt him..."
Tranced Taios typed like crazy"Accessing... this data is outdated... attempting to compensate... wow... there's a lot of information here..."
Phia was puzzled"like what?"
Tranced Taios replied""there's information about the muah that might interest everyone... humans came to roak in the past. centuries ago."
Ronyx raised an eyebrow"Really? That sounds interesting."
Ilia: So, the Muah were Earthlings, themselves?
Serenia nodded"Interesting."
Sora crossed his arms"But how did they get to Roak?"
Tranced Taios spoke in a strangely deeper voice"The Muah came to roak through an accident they were trying to correct... but unfortunately, opened the gateway to the demon world- ... playing message"Is this on? Good.
Yoran was surprised"that sounds a lot like-"
"King Aaron" breathed Questa.
Tranced Taios spoke"To whoever is in this room, and wanting to stop the arch-fiend. There's a mistake that I caused that had the damage was so severe The Muah agreed to help me, despite them distrusting me. And I don't blame them It was my fault summoning the demon world which I thought at the time was a wormhole back to Earth. And if my former friends are here to stop the twilight eclipse... Destroy both crystals."
"I thought that I could end the twilight eclipse myself using the dawn crystal. But is not it's sole function. It was meant to control the output of the twilight crystal. But I couldn't completely shut it down, that's why the eclipse only happens once every few years. And if those two were in the wrong hands, If the archfiend were to have the twilight crystal, or the dawn shards... the results would be catastrophic. I placed the eye of truth here to be guarded so that my mistakes don't happen again. And if my future son is here, tell him I am most sorry" he finished with a depressed look as he returned to normal.
Taios glanced around as the Eye of Truth appeared through a datastream"Huh, wha? what happened?"
"You seemed like you were in a trance. We heard your dad's voice. He said he was most sorry" Serenia explained.
Sora put two and two together"So to put an end to the eclipse, both crystals need to be destroyed, and Saxito has the other one, right?"
Yoran nodded"Yes. However, Saxito is a formidable adversary. We'd have to destroy the crystal to render him vulnerable."
"And considering asmodious has the shard from saxito's knowledge... we need to stop him now" said Taios.
Sora nodded"right."
Roddick took the Eye of Truth and led the way out of the Purgatorium. Millie addressed Yoran"so how does the eye of truth work?"
Yoran pondered"Perhaps it is our key to the Demon World."
"Is there anyplace in Roak we haven't been?" Serenia asked.
Ronyx nodded"Its a possibility."
"Then lets go" said Roddick.
After using the eye of truth in a unknown spot on Roak, they entered the demon world... with a familiar nobody in their path. Saxito greeted them with a smirk"Wow... who knew you guys would actually find me again. Oh, go ahead. Get angry. Allow the darkness to consume your hearts like true idiots."
Sora shrugged"You probably should give up."
"Careful what you wish for" challenged Tidus.
Yoran shrugged"I have to admit I was very surprised by that turn of events when you foiled my plan to end the eclipse, Saxito. And I'm not so easily wounded."
"What you've done to Van and Silvalant was unforgivable, but we can't just berserk out on you" said Roddick.
"What more do you want with us?" asked Cecil.
Questa was also surprised"how did you find this place?"
Saxito smirked"Taios' memories. Or did the prince miss that one?"
Fight me! I promise I won't miss" said Taios.
Saxito scoffed as he paced"Stick with your talents, Taios. You all helped uncover the key to destroying kingdom hearts forever."
"Or preserving it" muttered Sora.
Saxito scowled"damnit, Sora! protecting kingdom hearts gains us nothing!"
Taios smirked"How about peace?"
Saxito scoffed"Oh, so you WANT the realm of darkness to continue existing. You WANT people to stay like heartlesses. And you want pathetic villains to continue to harm others."
Cecil shook his head"There cannot be light without darkness, nor good without evil. But good will always prevail."
"Yeah. No matter the darkness, there's always a light deep down that never goes out" piped Sora.
"None of us desire any of that, Saxito" said Questa.
"You're no better than Xehanort" quipped Serenia.
"And then what? Continue to worship gods? There are choices coming you all aren't prepared to make. And as I said before, the world is more grey than you all care to admit" said Saxito.
"With destroying both crystals we can end this conflict once and for all! You're either with us or against us, there's nothing GREY about that" snapped Taios.
"So, are you going to get out of our way, or are you ready to have your butt kicked?" Tidus smiled.
Saxito sighed"Tidus, Tidus, Tidus. You should know by know that I let my lackeys fight you all to get even more p*$$ed off at me." he snapped his fingers as Riku started walking in.
Sora glanced at him"Riku?"
"Something's off" said Yoran, sensing an unusual aura.
"Yeah..." Serenia musseed.
Saxito smiled"I found this guy being unconcious near the farplane. Course he was killed in Castle Oblivion by the hands of his original. Isn't that right, Repliku?"
Repliku nodded"Yeah... normally I would be protecting Namine'... but she can handle herself... and i wouldn't fight you either, Sora... but considering the fact that you worship gods, it's starting to repulse my heart. I'm sorry, but i have no choice but to stop you."
Saxito smiled as he walked away through a dark corridor.
"Sora, this is between you and me, one on one. And if anyone interferes, I will personally kill Serenia" said the replica.
Sora summoned his Kingdom Key"Bring it on!"
Serenia stood back, ready to jump in, though she was not at the same level as Sora or "Riku."
The clone started using darkness to summon the corruptions rage keyblade, which almost looked like the keyblade of peoples hearts back when Radiant Garden was Hollow Bastion, but it looked all wrong, altered even. And they started fighting.
Taios whispered in Tyler's ear"I got a plan. But I need everyone to cooperate."
Tyler whispered back"Okay, what do we need to do?"
Taios replied quietly"I have a highly dense meteoric frying pan that's digitally stored in my pocket. when the replica comes near you... activate the button and whack him as hard as you can. First, we need to get his attention... cause him to stop fighting Sora."
Tyler nodded"Okay. But he said he'll kill Serenia if we interfere, how can we get his attention without him doing that?"
Taios quietly replied"see that rock face over there? It has some Heartless underneath that I'm smelling. If we get one of our members to move the rock down the ledge... it will cause them to appear and make Sora and the replica stop to notice the Heartless long enough to knock him out."
Tyler nodded"Okay." He walked over to Kain and explained as quietly as he can"Uh, Taios needs one of us to move the rock face over there down the ledge. Think you can do that?"
Kain raised an eyebrow, but shrugged"Very well." He went over to the rock face that Tyler pointed out and pushes it with all of his might. And when he moved it, 20 heartless that looked like neoshadows with a headband with a heartless sigil, as well as a dark grey ninja vest holding a dark poisonous looking katana started appearing and begun to attack repliku and Sora by surprise.
"What?!" Repliku guarded against the Heartless' attack.
Tyler went to stand near Taios and waits for his cue to knock the replica out.
"Heartless, here? Why am I not surprised?" Sora attacked the Heartless with Rising Sun. As repliku started attacking the heartless that was near Tyler, destroyed them, but got whacked in the back of the head, by Tyler instantly knocking him out.
Taios smirked"There, he's unconscious."
Sora glanced at the unconscious replica"As much as I'd like to get us closer to finding Asmodeus before he wakes up, I get the feeling we shouldn't just leave him."
"I'll send him back to the Farplane" said Yuna.
"no" said Taios.
"What?" The others were surprised.
"Maybe we can convince him to be on our side. He seems to be protective of namine'" suggested Taios.
Cecil nodded"And if we can tell him that Saxito will harm her-"
"Its risky, but I guess we can try to convince him" shrugged Sora.
Yuna nodded"All right."
"It might be a while before he wakes up" said Sora.
"Then who can carry him?" asked Taios.
"I will" Yoran picked up the unconscious replica and slung him over his shoulder.
Sora nodded"Okay, let's get going." Sora and Roddick start to lead the way deeper inside the Demon World until they reached what looked like a ship... a dreadnaught.
Taios looked at it"huh."
Sora looked at him"What is it?"
"Doesn't look like something that should be here, on this planet..." mussed Ronyx.
"And i have a feeling that i know what it is... I just need to use it's computer console if there is one" said Taios.
Sora nodded"All right, let's check it out." They went inside the 'ship.'
Ceodore looked around"... somehow, this ship feels almost familiar to the maenad moon."
Illia glanced quizzically at him"Maenad Moon?"
"Cecil's world was in a state of crisis once, our friends here stopped it... ah, here's the computer" said Taios, beginning to type.
The computer's internal voice spoke"leasp ntere het ecuritys asswordp."
Roddick was confused"I... didn't understand that."
Ronyx shook his head"Nether did I."
"I did" supplied Taios.
Yuna turned to him"you can understand it?"
Taios nodded"Yes. it's saying that we need a password."
Ilia shrugged"Well, do you know what the password is, Taios? You seemed to know about this world already, and I can understand how, kind of."
Taios shrugged"I only know because of video games."
"And I'm guessing that the videogames from your earth tell a discriptive narritve of future events."
Taios nodded"Yeah. But I can't reveal too much of the future. but considering these circumstances I got no other option. As soon as we type something in, the computer will ask a further password and will trigger an alarm, causing the archfiend to appear right in front of us."
"Let's just try something" said Illia, in putting the Archfiend's name.
The computer instructed"elcomew smodiousa, leasep nputi ommandc."
"It's saying to input a command" said Taios.
Sora squared his shoulders"Hm. I've never been good at this stuff."
Illia put in a random command, and then then an alarm went off.
Questa looked around"Something's coming!"
Roddick readied himself"If what Taios says is true..."
A horned humanoid appeared"Roakians! what is your business here"
Taios shrugged"Huh, never thought the archfiend would look more disappointing than expected."
"We're after a monster called Archfiend Asmodeus" said Sora.
"Humph, you clearly do not think it obvious, like this young man seemed to. Asmodeus happens to be my name" said the archfiend.
Serenia was shocked"So you're the one behind the trouble in Roak."
Asmodeus gave an amused smile"True, my actions of the past did cause the Roakians to fear me... But this time, the present troubles of roak weren't my doing. I believe that boy with the black coat was responsible. Still, if you were catch me, I'll be most happy to entertain you all." He turned and snapped his fingers as Lexaeus? and Xaldin? started to appear"you two, take care of our guests." He then walked away.
Sora glanced at them"Xaldin is formidable enough, some of us will have to keep Lexaeus busy."
Cyuss grinned"Not a problem."
Roddick, Phia, Cyuss, Ioshua, and Tyler rushed to fend off Lexaeus, while Sora, Serenia, Questa, Kain and Ceodore tackled Xaldin, attacking with magic and physical attacks. Xaldin countered with a series of blows with his lances. Ronyx stood back and casts Star Flare on both Lexaeus and Xaldin.
Lexaeus let out a battle cry as his darkness and earth power increased. Taios spoke"When Lexaeus is about to attack scooping the ground, guard, then counter!"
Tyler nodded"Right..."
Lexaeus drove his sword axe towards the ground, only for Cyuss to swing his own blade upwards, putting them at bladelock long enough for Roddick to slash Lexaeus, followed by a Thundara spell from Tyler. Lexaeus swung his blade horizontally in response, prompting Tyler, Cyuss and Roddick to get out of the way. Phia dove in with a slash of her own blades at Lexaeus.
Xaldin jumped backwards and into the air, driving himself on his lances at Sora. Sora rolled out of the way and retaliated with Ragnarok. Xaldin staggered back and counters with an attack from his lance, only for Ceodore and Kain to combo him with a Double Jump. The final blow for Lexeaus came when taios attacked his weak point between the back of his neck.
"There, that takes care of rockface. Now for the windbag!" said Taios with a grin.
Questa had her own keyblade out and had unleashed a five-hit combo at Xaldin. Xaldin staggered and struck back with his lances, driving Questa, Ceodore and Kain back.
"I got this. Kain, Ceodore, Serenia, think you can distract him for a moment?" said Sora.
Ceodore shrugged"No problem, I think."
Ceodore and Kain cross slash Xaldin while Serenia attacked with Fira. Sora darted forward and delivered a lethal blow to Xaldin with a quick three-hit combo and Strike Raid As 'Xaldin' faded away into darkness again, Sora looked around"Takes care of these two. But which way did Asmodeus go?"
"There might be an area we haven't checked yet" said Kain.
"There's a hallway nearby that I saw him walking" supplied Taios.
"Let's check there, then" said Roddick.
They proceeded further north, navigating the Space Time Laboratory until they came to a reddish doorway. "He's in there, I can feel it. Yoran, how's the Replica?" asked Questa.
Yoran checked"Still not awake, yet. But it may not much longer until he wakes."
Sora and Roddick led the way into Asmodeus' 'lair where the archfiend greeted them"hmhmhmhmhmhm, so you've all made it."
"Asmodeus, why did you and Saxito attack roak? What do you gain fighting us? You're only hurting yourself by allying with him" asked Roddick.
Asmodeus smiled"Why indeed. I would like to know myself."
"Don't play mindgames with us! We already have that covered by Saxito!" shouted Tidus.
Asmodeus smirked"I'm being completely honest with all of you. I know not the reason why Saxito came to confront me. All i know is that he offered protection against the deity Bhunivelze."
"Bhunivelze?" Serenia asked.
"Bhunivelze is one of the first known gods of the world order, Bhunivelze supposedly had created the lands of Cocoon and Grand Pulse" Questa replied.
Yoran grimaced"Another great legacy of the world order's 'gods.'"
Kain frowned"Why would anyone, much less an archfiend, require protection from a god?"
Sora shrugged"Who knows?"
"As for myself, i took refuge here on my own volition in search of freedom, and yet I wished I could settle elsewhere- someplace not here. I'm being driven by these contradicting impulses, and I don't know what to do about it" said Asmodeus.
Taios: isn't it easier just to co-exist with Roak, instead of being stupid enough to attack them?
Asmodeus scoffed"Why should i share with them? I hunger for it all: the water, the wind, the trees, the land. I will never be satisfied until it is all mine. The weak have no right to-"
Ceodore was irked"No right to what!? to live? to have a happy existence?"
"If you continue to fight against the roakians, than you have no right to call yourself strong" said Cecil.
"Why does power exist in the first place? What use are they if you don't use them to fulfill your desires?! If you all want to stop me, why not show me your powers?" snarled the Archfiend.
"Be careful what you wish for" said Sora.
Tidus rushed at Asmodeus with a slash, followed by a Dragon Roar Arte from Roddick. Ronyx readied himself to cast Explode at Asmodeus. Taios began to pull out his wayfinder and four aura's of yellow, red, blue and purple began to surround em'"Heroes of Weyard, I need your help!" He unleashed Isaac's Odyssey attack.
Asmodeus barely flinched as the blades from the spell pierced him and retaliated with Shadow Flare. Millie, Yuna and Sora kept up with the damage by healing their comrades.
"Strike Raid!" Serenia hurled her keyblade at Asmodeus, followed by a jump attack from Kain and a Vibra Plus from Cecil and Ceodore.
"Yuna! i need you to summon Shiva! Gonna do diamond berg team up!" said Taios.
"Okay" Yuna summoned Shiva.
Both the eidolon and the keyblade prince started to combined their diamond dust to the point that the archfiend begun to be frozen in a iceberg, and Taios just sliced the ice berg in half and damaged the archfiend effectively.
Asmodeus retaliated with Dark Flare"Try this on for size!"
Sora healed his allies and teamed up with Roddick to tackle Asmodeus with a couple of devastating combos. Ceodore then powered himself up and darts forward with Cecil to unleash a devastating Vibra Plus. Succumbing to his injuries, Asmodeus collapsed, dead.
"We did it" cheered Sora.
Saxito stood nearby with the Avalonian elite troopers"And you all must be very proud of yourselves. You guys get asmoudious' blood and some of his hair."
"you heard the boss!" said one of the troopers.
"Aye, sir!" replied one of his colleagues.
Sora was puzzled"What are they up to, now?"
"We should do something about these guys" said Tidus.
"Its already been established that a unknown Third Party would take a sample of Asmodeus's blood back with them to create the virus. Let's stand down until its safe to get a sample, ourselves" said Ronyx.
Sora covered Serenia and Tyler's eyes, not wanting them to see it. Yoran stood quietly, watching. Repliku was slowly beginning to stir.
Ilia was puzzled"But why do they need some of his hair?"
Saxito smiled"Now, the last shard is on the console there. I'm going to have you hand all of them over. Unless of course, you don't want Kairi to be returned to Cosmos."
Sora shrugged"I guess I don't have much choice. I hope you haven't harmed Kairi." He took the dawn crystal shards he had managed to collect and went to give them to Saxito.
"Can we trust him to keep his word?" Serenia wondered.
Questa squared her shoulders"It would ill behoove the name of the Sacred Key Kingdom's late Royal Family if he does not uphold his promise."
Saxito smiled"I'm many things, Sora. A gambler, a ruler, a monster, but I'm not a liar. Never have been. As far as your concerned, Kairi almost gotten herself killed multiple times from her own stupidity. And as for the future of Bhunivelze, I don't lie when I say that you guys will destroy him after I destroy kingdom hearts, even when I die by your hands, the heart of all worlds will still be destroyed. As soon as I leave, Kairi will be returned to your goddess, then the mass invasion of the realm of light of finally start." He left with his troopers through a dark corridor.
"Illia, go ahead and get the blood sample from Asmodeus" instructed Ronyx.
Illia nodded and went to retrieve a sample for the vaccine.
"We're not done yet, guys" remarked Sora.
"What can we do besides getting help from our allies?" wondered Serenia.
"First, we'd best go see Cosmos. Even when we do, It would take time to amass an army to counter Avalon's" said Yoran.
Sora addressed Roddick's group with a smile"Roddick, Captain Ronyx, my group and I will need to get going. Thanks for letting us tag along."
Ronyx nodded"I owe your team my thanks for you assistance as well, Sora."
Repliku slowly opened his eyes to find himself slung over Yoan's shoulder"Ngh... what? where-"
"Yoran, he's waking up. you can put him down" said Taios.
Repliku groaned"Uh... wha-... why am I-"
"We spared your life because we know your smart, but mixed up with the wrong people. Plus, you realize that Saxito will just end up hurting namine' right?" said Taios, coolly.
Repliku frowned"How do i know you aren't lying?"
Yoran put Repliku down as he explained"Saxito is Prince Taios' Nobody, he's amassed an army to invade worlds and has both the Dawn and Twilight Crystals in his possession."
"You can trust us" encouraged Sora.
Repliku sighed"... all I care about is protecting Namine'... but if he intends to harm her... I will tear him apart."
"You might want to get in line. if you were to join us, you can do just that" grinned Taios.
Repliku thought for a moment, then slowly nodded"Fine."
Sora grinned"Great to have you along."
Meanwhile, Saxito had Kairi tied up while approaching the Goddess of Harmony"Hellow again, Cosmos."
"Greetings. What brings you back here? Wait, isn't this Kairi? Why is she with you?" said Cosmos, perplexed.
Saxito smirked"I don't need her as a hostage anymore, since Sora gave me all of the dawn shards, as payment. I'm delivering her back to you as promised... the realm of darkness will be destroyed very soon, once my armada arrives in the Realm of Light. So you might wanna prepare yourself for the war that will not only cause untold destruction, but will start a catalyst that will draw out Bhunivelze himself. I've been saving these for a very special occasion. enjoy these while you have time to relax" said Saxito, gesturing for one of his men to hand Cosmos a fresh batch of chocolate chip cookies and cider.
The trooper handed then to the Goddess, then the master and lackey left the area.
Cosmos frowned"This is worse than I initially suspected."
The Warrior of Light walked towards Kairi and carefully cut the ropes"Are you all right?"
Kairi was dazed for a moment, but stood"Yeah, thanks."
Cosmos nodded, then offered"I am glad that you are fine, but I must now summon all of my available Warriors and warn as many people in the other worlds as possible. If there are any potential warriors willing to join our cause, they shall also be welcome to assist. Kairi, would you like me to see you safely back to Radiant Garden?"
Kairi shook her head"No, I want to help. Sora and Riku shouldn't have to be the only ones fighting for the worlds..."
"Let us go back to the Sanctuary of Harmony, then. We'll have to figure out our next move before we do anything else" said Kain.
Sora nodded"Right."
Sora's group warped to the Sanctuary of Harmony. When they arrived, Cosmos and Quinn were shocked to see not only Yoran, but Taios as well.
The Warrior of Light addressed them"you've returned... ! you!" He pointed his sword at Taios.
Taios jumped back"hey, easy!"
Sora shrugged"I guess we'd better do some explaining, and I guess you've already met Saxito. This is actually his Somebody, Prince Taios."
Cosmos gazed at Taios"The resemblance is uncanny, yet I sense a gentle light within you that did not emit at all within Saxito. And I presume the man in your group is Yoran?"
Yoran nodded"It is I. And yon blue-haired girl is Questa, we hailed formerly from the lost Kingdom of the Sacred Key."
"Sora! Serenia!" Kairi rushed over to her husband and daughter, the three embraced each other happily.
"May I inquire why Yoran is here in the first place? I considered offering a parley, but I had other matters to ponder as well" said Cosmos.
Yoran nodded"I knew I would encounter skepticism from you, but I assure you I am here to help put an end to Saxito and the Avalon Empire."
"I can vouch for him, mainly because i consider that we're out of options. and we need all the allies we can get. I assure you, Cosmos, I won't let anything happen to everyone. No one is going to die today" grinned Taios.
Questa nodded"I completely agree with you. There has been enough pain to last a lifetime."
Taios squared his shoulders"First things first... I need to go to the Land of Departure to warn Terra, Aqua, and Ven. Who's coming with me?"
"I'll go with you" said Tyler.
Serenia smiled"Count me in, too."
Kain acknowledged Taios with a nod"Cid's group still is repairing the Ragnarok II, but Cecil and I will go check on him."
Sora addressed Cosmos"We're going to need to let Leon, Yuffie, Rinoa, Cloud and Aerith know what's happening in advance, as well. And I'll have to go warn King Mickey and Riku."
Cosmos nodded"I will send Quinn to deliver Squall the message."
Taios was surprised and addressed the Warrior"Wait, your name is Quinn? Huh, so that's what Prishe named you."
Quinn nodded"It is. I don't recall Prishe, that was during the early cycles of the war between Cosmos and Chaos."
Taios: well, if she's still alive somewhere, I think she'd be proud of you. Alright, let's go guys. We got allies to gather
Sora smiled"Okay, let's get to it. I'll head over to Disney Castle and tell Mickey, if he's there."
Cecil and Kain headed back to their world while Serenia and Tyler went with Taios to the Land of Departure. Sora took off for Disney Castle while the Warrior of Light headed for Radiant Garden.
This turned out to be a pretty long chapter, huh? The next one will be kind of a intermission chapter with Sora and the gang gathering allies for the final battles, but will involve Twilight Town in some form, hopefully.
Please feel free to review.