Chapter CL: The Steed Of Ice, Black Bombs And Hellfire
Return To The Radiant Gardens Part X
Gazing upon the door of time that was now tightly bound with golden chains, Maleficent was silent as she walked around it. Her staff hit the ground now and again creating a suspenseful atmosphere for all those who were watching her.
Jona, Uriax and Hari along with Pete had all been gathered together immediately after the mystical phenomenon had occurred. Then after her servant had relayed the information of what had happened to her master, the mistress of all evil began her inspection.
Jona watching on was curious but she wasn't too bothered as she held her arms relaxed behind her head, with her tail wagging back and forth behind her. Uriax next to her had his arms folded and though no-one could see the expression on his face behind his mask, it was clear that as one of his fingers tapped the folds of his sleeve, he was getting impatient.
Hari in the meantime as to be expected had a blank cold look on her face, as she felt no stress whatsoever at the actions of her master. While Pete next to her staring at Maleficent as she continued to walk around the chained door, he felt like he was on pins and needles! For he had no idea how she would react to this, for this result was really bad! Looking to his accomplice for a moment, he knew that if she was greatly displeased it might mean that he would be separated from-
"So!'
This made Pete jump and turn back to look at her as he quickly stood rigidly to attention! Maleficent had turned her gaze back to her awaiting audience as she then asked her most loyal servant, "Hari, you have described this item as a 'Time Lock' correct?"
The ice cold green eyed girl replied to her, "yes my lady... it seems the Seeker and her group managed to acquire this object without us being witness to it."
Uriax hearing this was in contempt of this 'doll' so he told her, "well if it's simply just a lock, you have the power to slice it apart don't you? Why not just do it now?"
Pete hearing this looked to Uriax quietly with astonishment, for even he hadn't thought of something so simple!
Hari herself looking to the dark apprentice for a silent moment then told him simply as she bowed her head with her eyes closed, "I could Uriax...however if I do so, I would be ripping into the fabric of time which could possibly cause a vortex... this would suck away all who happen to be in it's presence," then opening her eyes she finally relayed to him, "this would be immediately hazardous for all who dwell in this realm."
Jona staring at Hari as she described this vortex of time thing replied as she rubbed her arms, "brr... I certainly don't like the sound of that honey!"
Uriax hearing this description was unintimidated in the slightest and so looking away from Hari he told her unimpressed, "pathetic excuses from a useless doll!"
At once Pete hearing this nasty comment was outraged as he barked, "hey!"
However quickly stepping in Maleficent spoke up as she said with agitation, "enough!" As she struck her cane into the hard floor!
This immediately made everyone go quiet, for no-one was foolish enough to try and provoke the mistress of the heartless! Seeing that she had regained the control of everyone's attention again Maleficent turned to Uriax as she continued with a seemingly soft smile on her face, "now... it is a depressing thought that we can no longer use that door of time, I agree my dear apprentice." But then her stern serious expression quickly returned as she told him, "however that does not give you permission to mock my servant!" Then turning her back on Uriax she told him strictly,"remember your place!"
The apprentice of darkness hearing this was silent as he watched his mistress turn away from him, but looking at him herself Jona couldn't resist the chance to do a little tease, "ooh! Someone got told off huh?"
"Hmph!" Came a simple annoyed reply as Uriax turned his head away from the grinning Syphinx.
Maleficent ignoring this then turned back to her accomplices as she told them, "now since we know of the existence of these 'Time Locks', it's obvious that literally time is of the essence! We must act with haste and acquire as many hearts as possible from these last two doors!"
Pete nodding at this info as Maleficent relayed this information to them all, then asked though cautiously, "so uh... ya want us ta-"
"I want immediate action now!" With that turning to her apprentice she told him, "Uriax! Since you have taken responsibility for the next door, I want you to enter it now!"
Hearing the demanding tone in his mistresses' voice, he simply shrugged and with arrogance resonating in his voice he replied casually, "you don't need to tell me twice!" With that he walked forwards and arrived in front of the door of time with the blue stained glassed image of a Trident in it's arch.
Everyone watched him quietly as he slowly brought out his right hand and opened it up. Quickly as he did there was a glowing blue vibrant portal inside it which was swirling and turning waiting to pull him inside it.
Seeing the portal of time didn't shock or intimidate the apprentice in the slightest, instead turning around he announced with arrogance and a smile on his face, "you can all look forward to a better result this time!" Then with that he jumped back as he faced them, as the door of time quickly took him away in a flash of light!
Staring at him as he was sucked away into the portal, Jona couldn't help but say, "ooh, over confidence much huh?"
Quiet as she heard this comment Maleficent then replied to the exotic Syphinx, "indeed... something to be wary of!" Finishing her sentence she asked Jona, "why don't you follow after him my dear?"
This immediately surprised the Syphinx as she looked to Maleficent and asked her, "me!? You want me to go with him!?"
Smiling at her reaction the mistress of all evil replied, "yes... though quietly with stealth, just so his ego doesn't get the better of him!" Then seeing Jona was still looking at her with curious and surprised eyes, Maleficent added to her, "would this be fanciful to you my dear?"
At this question Jona looked to the door for a moment but turning back to the mistress of darkness, she already knew her answer as she told her, "sure! Why not? Though it's sad I won't get no time for any relaxin'!" But turning her attentions back to the swirling portal of time she finished, "but... I'd say that sweetie pie will give be more than enough entertainment to me!"
With that she made her way to the doorway but before she walked through it there was another call, "Jona!"
Hearing this call the Syphinx turned around and as she did, suddenly something came flying! Catching it quickly in her paw hands, she saw a blue shiny stone of some kind. Curious of it she looked to Maleficent who'd launched it to her, the witch then told her, "a little gift to assist you! I have the feeling you'll be needing it in that world."
Jona hearing this moved her head to the side curious, but turning down again to look at the blue stone she decided to not look a gift horse in the mouth, so she grinned and replied, "thanks! I'll be off then!" Turning around she quickly leaped head first into the portal and with that she vanished in a flash of blue light. The door quickly then shut itself concealing the blue and twisting passage behind its white wooden frames.
Seeing them go Pete had been completely silent like Hari was, but once again curiosity getting the better of him he asked, "so uh... what now there Maleficent?"
Hearing her bumbling cohort ask this question, she replied to him with a smile on her face, "we wait my dear... I'm sure we're bound to have some fascinating results from this coming venture."
This left Pete still as muddled as he scratched his left ear, however Hari watching all that had transpired knew from her cold logic that something would happen within the realms of that door that would definitely change things...
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"LASS WATCH IT!"
Hearing the loud cry come out, Nozomi freaked out as she turned and saw the shining projectile coming her way! "Whoa!" She cried out as she quickly leaped out of the way in moments!
As she did the thing struck the ground and as it did a frozen icy patch was left upon the cobbled stone floor! Running though this wasn't the end of the barrage as she quickly continued to evade with her wings aiding her, she jumped left, right and away from the freezing missiles that were being fired away at her!
"Agh! Wah! Yowzers!" Turning in moments Cait sith looking from Nozomi's shoulder shouted at the thing that was chasing them both while waving his gloved paw, "ya lousy nelly of an ice horsey! Stop shootin' at us!"
For the creature that was chasing both female keyblader and small annoyed cat was a huge horse creature covered from head to foot in freezing cold, blue white ice! It's angry red eyes were fixed upon them both as it continued it's pursuit. Then as though replying to Cait sith's angry shout it whinnied horribly as it was getting ready to send another ferocious barrage!
Seeing that this was going to happen, made Nozomi fill up with dread! Then looking to her small feline companion she told him, "don't antagonise the thing Cait sith! You'll-"
Then stopping her in her tracks, the icy barrage of sharp freezing icicles came raining out again at them!
Seeing it Nozomi cried out, "agh!" Then with that she went back to leaping and jumping in and around like a mad man! Gritting her teeth as she was desperate to keep moving, she spoke up as she looked at the thing echoing out her frustration, "man! Who would have thought that a bauble like that would bring out a monster like this!"
Cait sith hearing her then agreed, "I know lass! Especially when we've already got one major trouble ta deal with!"
Hearing that Nozomi looked ahead as she saw what that trouble was. For ahead were both Juan and Alania who were still captives upon their demonic Merry Go Round horses! They were being carried towards the very icy, ominous opened mouth of Bebuzzu who was breathing out a misty cloud of ice as it gnashed now and again awaiting it's helpless prey who were going to be fed into it's gruesome chops!
Standing upon his own demon horse, the pink chocobo Peekaboo bounced up and down all hyped up as he cried out, "c'mon icy! Put the frostin' on 'em! C'mon! Go! Go! Go!"
Upon her own steed annoyed beyond all measure, Alania still continued to struggle against her bonds as she gritted her teeth and complained mad, "I wish that dumb bird would just go! Go! Go!" Then seeing that her bonds were still as tight as ever, she pulled back trying to free herself as she complained mad, "darn this stupid horse!"
Juan seeing that her comrade was struggling was also finding the bindings annoying too! Hovering over his shoulder, the pink axolotl Poncho was looking on as blank as ever. He simply just continued to float and follow his owner who was being ridden to his doom.
But through his struggles he had made progress as he could nearly feel both his hands again! So turning quick he told her, "don't worry Alania señorita! I'll have us free soon!"
Hearing Juan say this as she turned to look at him, the summoner was not convinced as she asked, "oh really?"
Nodding energetically Juan told her, "oh yeah!"
"Aaaggghhh!"
Quickly distracting them both Juan and Alania turned around and saw that Nozomi was slipping around left and right as the monster horse had sent a wave of ice into the stone laden floor ! This was now making it precarious for the female keyblader for she didn't have the grit to properly jump and evade anymore! She was literally trying to skate away from the icicle barrage as it kept coming at her, but it was clear from where Juan and Alania were. She was going to slip up any minute!
Seeing this something had to be done and quickly! So turning to the one ally he had that was free he called out to him, "Poncho!
Hearing him call out to his axolotl, Alania wondered what he was going to do?
Then Juan told his small pal, "go and help Nozomi señorita and our pal Cait sith! Now get goin'!"
At his command there seemed to be no reaction from the odd looking creature, then watching on Alania saw the small lizard turn around in the air, in a nearly perfect one hundred and eighty degree circle. However looking on the summoner was far from believing this creature would be of any help whatsoever, then getting his attention Peekaboo got curious.
Looking he saw the strange little reptile hovering in the air, looking at it he wondered what the heck was going on? For that thing even he considered was weird beyond words. He wouldn't have to wait though for all of a sudden the mane of fins around the little creatures neck ruffled and before anyone's eyes could blink, the creature was racing forwards like a little pink rocket as it headed straight in the direction where Nozomi and Cait sith were!
Seeing the little creature go like this, both Alania and Peekaboo became gobsmacked! Shocked the 'Arc' summoner blurted out, "what!? What!? That little thing can-"
"Oh yes señorita! When it comes to putting the pedal to the metal! It's my amigo Poncho!" Juan broadcasted loudly with happy pride as he continued to try and free himself.
Hearing this Alania was still in shock but recovering from it, though she didn't express the same excited sentiments as her gunner team member. She was beginning to feel that maybe they might have a chance now!
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Back in the distance Nozomi was struggling like mad trying to keep her balance as she was skidding around left and right upon the icy floor that the monster had made! "Oh man!" Steering madly as her arms waved left and right, she was trying to move forwards when suddenly-
Blast!
"Aggh!" Nozomi cried out loud panicked and startled as another icicle missile exploded right behind her!
"Whoa!" She cried out distressed, for now she was stumbling! Her balance she could feel was going! She wouldn't be able to-
"OH LASS!"
BLAST!
"Agggh!"
Nozomi then toppled over as she fell face first into the icy path! Sliding forwards painfully, she cried out desperate to hold her nose as she sat up and said, "owww! That hurt it was-"
"Turn around ya daft banshee!" Cait sith cried out mad and panicked as he was tugging on the sides of her hair hard!
Feeling more pain Nozomi cried out, "Oww! Cait sith! Get off I-"
Then there was a terrible monstrous neigh! Looking she saw that the ice stallion which had been chasing her all this time was now right over them both! Shock filled Nozomi's eyes as dread quickly came over Cait sith as they both saw the beast!
Seeing its prey was now helpless, the monster reared itself onto it's hind legs! It's ice crystal mane began to glow brightly with cold blue light as its red eyes were fixed on both keyblader and cat! It's attack was nearly ready!
Cait sith seeing what going to happen called out panicked, "lass! Get movin' c'mon! Move!"
Without another word Nozomi quickly tried to do just that as she hurriedly tried to get back onto her legs! However slipping around badly, she couldn't get any grit! She couldn't get back up onto her feet! She couldn't escape!
The monster's icy mane was set alight! It was trembling! It was ready to attack! Turning over again she felt the horrible emanating chill from the monster and as Nozomi looked up at the monster she knew with widened alarmed eyes! This was it!
Cait sith too was on edge as he saw what was coming!
Plop!
Suddenly something fell into Cait sith's right paw! Startled he looked at the object perplexed but then the shining light of the horse creature was at it's peak as it began to unleash it's power!
Nozomi cried out, "Aaaggh!" As she covered her head, however Cait sith next to her reacted instantly as he cried out mad and panicking "oh take this!"
Suddenly as he threw the small object the monster let out it's attack! Then as this happened the object hit the blast from the beast and all at once there was a huge fiery explosion making Cait sith and Nozomi fly backwards across the ice as there was a huge shrieking of pain from the creature!
Tumbling over and over, Nozomi and Cait sith made it across the long sheet of ice they had been on and had now fallen onto the hard gritty stone laden floor again! Shaking her head from the sudden rush and headache she was now suffering from, the female keyblader cried out, "oww! What the heck was? What did just-"
Then opening her eyes she was suddenly confronted by the alien and blank eyes of that pink axolotl pet thing of Juan's! This scaring her she backed away immediately as she cried out, "hey! Don't do that to me Poncho! What-"
Suddenly she heard the shrieking of the creature again! Turning over she looked back to see the monster was writhing in pain, it was in agony as it had somehow been set on fire as the scorching red element was covering it all over! Shocked at this sight Nozomi went quiet.
Cait sith on her shoulder was just as amazed as he asked, "just what there made that thing-"
Plop!
Suddenly another object fell into Cait sith's open paw! Looking to it as Nozomi had noticed it too, the two of them saw a black small smooth sphere of some kind.
Confused by this Nozomi asked curious, "what's that?"
Cait sith quietly thought to himself and then suddenly he remembered! He felt something fall into his paw before! Then remembering himself throwing it, it all came together! Looking to Nozomi he told her, "I reckon this is a bomb lass!"
Stunned Nozomi repeated, "a bomb?" Then after a quick pause she asked, "but where did it come from?! Where-"
Plop!
Suddenly another one fell down and rolled onto the stony floor, looking at it surprised the cat and keyblader looked up to see where it had come from. What they both saw was Poncho popping his mouth up and down as he finally closed it.
Looking at the axolotl Nozomi and Cait sith both quickly got the idea... though Nozomi spoke her mind, "eww..."
Even Cait sith was put off, but suddenly the screeching of the monster had stopped! At once turning both him and Nozomi saw the beast had recovered and was quickly seeking its revenge as it was heading straight for them both!
Seeing it coming quickly the small cat told her, "lass!"
At once turning Nozomi saw the monster coming straight towards them both! She had to do something quick! But what could-
Plop!
Suddenly another bomb fell from Poncho's mouth and as it did she looked at it quietly with revulsion but then an idea hit her! Looking to the monster as it kept coming, a smile came to her face as she knew what to do!
Cait sith feeling her get up was startled as he saw that she wasn't running! Confused he asked her, "lass what're ya doin'!? Ya gotta-"
Nozomi told him, "oh I'll be running!" Then calling her keyblade back into her right hand she announced looking really pumped up, "but I'm going to be giving a little pay back!"
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In the meantime riding on ahead, both Alania and Juan were being led closer and closer towards the horrific ice laden mouth of Bebuzzu! Things were beginning to become dire!
Seeing that they were approaching the terrifying mouth, made both Juan and Alania become all the more on edge! However Peekaboo was keen and excited and looking at their goal he spoke up, "we're almost there! We're almost there!"
""RRRROOOOOOAAAAARRRRR!"
As though hearing his excited exclamations, Bebuzzu let out a huge hungry roar! This sent chills into both Alania and Juan's backs!
Peekaboo though hearing the impatience in that roar called out to the devilish tome, "hang on there Bebuzzu! Dinner'll be with ya real soon!"
Hearing this Alania spoke her mind as she said with fret in her voice, "I do not want to be an appetizer!" Then looking to the gunner 'Arc' she could see that he was still struggling against his bonds, so she asked him nearly desperate, "Juan! Have you got through those bonds yet!?"
At this question he replied, "almost señorita! Almost I just-"
Her stress getting to her Alania told him mad, "you need to hurry up! Now c'mon otherwise-"
EXPLODE!
Startled all the riders on their horses were shocked and quickly turning, they all saw a huge fiery blast echo out as smoke billowed forth!
Seeing this Peekaboo asked really terrified, "wha!? Wha!? Wha!? What the heck was-"
EXPLODE!
Then suddenly as this other huge blast echoed out, there was another blast one! And another one! Another and another and-
Seeing where all these blasting sounds were coming from Peekaboo cried out, "what is that fiery mess there!? What's-"
Turning though he noticed as he looked in Juan's direction, the bearded young man had a big grin across his face! Peekaboo knew quickly that this guy knew exactly what was going on!
Juan was pleased the plan was working! Poncho was-
CLONK!
Feeling this thud made Juan flinch as he cried out, "hey!"
Being made to turn away from the fiery sight, Alania turned to see that Peekaboo had thrown his big pink lollipop at Juan and quickly mad the chubby chocobo demanded, "what did yer weird pink lizard thing do! What's goin' on back there!?"
Curious herself Alania too was wondering what was going on? But then she saw Juan grin widely as he told the small pink chocobo as another blast rang out, "Poncho's just lendin' my compañero Nozomi a little fire power!"
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The horse was shrieking like mad as it tried to run and catch up to it's target. However it was being struck over and over again by the countless small sphere like black bombs! It was covered from head to foot in red flames now!
Cait sith watching what was happening as he and Nozomi were running forwards, was really amazed at how fast things had turned around! But looking at his comrade he was surprised at what she'd come up with!
Holding her keyblade in her right hand as she ran, Nozomi jumped as she turned around and cried out, "take this!"
With that in seconds, Poncho flying over head at a fast speed released a whole barrage of bombs from his mouth and as he did. Nozomi suddenly struck each and every one of the bombs sending them flying straight towards the monster! The explosions sounded out loudly and as they did, at once the creature shrieked again as it was bathed in a sea of fire!
Cait sith looking at Nozomi as she kept on batting the bombs at the creature while they ran, he felt a little awkward sitting on her shoulder. Asking aloud he turned his face in the air and said, "is this supposed to be a battle or a weird game of baseball?"
Amongst the sounds of explosions, Nozomi didn't hear him properly and so she called out as she landed again, "what!?"
The small Scottish cat though told her, "don't worry about it lass! Just keep up ya peltin'"
At this Nozomi replied, "will do!" With that she went straight back to doing it as she jumped into the air again!
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Seeing what Nozomi was doing as she was being aided by Poncho, Alania then couldn't help but smile and she wished inside that she could be the one batting away at that monster!
Juan was proud too as he cried out, "way to go Poncho!" With that he went back to trying to get his hands free! He was nearly there!
Peekaboo looking on and seeing what was happening to the monster that Irma blessed him with, he knew this was bad and he had to do something!
At that moment suddenly Juan had finally got his hands free as with one last hard gritted tug, the tendrils were ripped away! He did it! "Ah ha!"
As Juan called out, Alania turned and as she did it was then that Peekaboo shouted out loudly, "c'mon ice horsey! Fight back!" He called out to the burning and now melting creature!
There wasn't much of a reaction though and panicking as he saw the beast was continuing to struggle and get weaker, Peekaboo turned around as he shouted out mad, "Bebuzzu!? I need help!"
Hearing this distressed call from the chubby pink chocobo, there was then suddenly a reaction from the opened demonic mouth of Bebuzzu!
"BBUUURRPPP!"
Suddenly all at once from inside the centre of the terrible tome, a big dark pulsating orb emerged surrounded by electrified dark blue light. As it did it zoomed past the group of captives leaving them all stunned as Alania called out, "what was-"
Then suddenly, "agh!"
Turning again Alania saw that Juan's escape plan had backfired as suddenly more dark tendrils appeared and wrapped themselves not only just over his hands, but they were even attaching themselves to his beard and face! This was really hurting him! "oh no! Oww! Let go you maraña! Oww! Mph!" The tendrils then silenced him as they'd completely the lower part of his face!
Seeing this happen Alania sighed as she felt completely deflated saying, "great we're so saved..."
Then suddenly as she said these words the horses that both captives and captor were on all started to speed up at a terrifying speed!
Peekaboo seeing this couldn't believe it! But then clapping his feather's together excited he cried out! "Now we're back in business!"
Alania became pale! Then turning her face away from both that detestable chubby chocobo and the struggling gunner 'Arc' she lookied back to where the dark orb was flying to. She knew this was bad! It was really, really bad!
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Striking another bomb at the now smouldering ice monster it exploded loudly and as it did, the creature shrieked again and in moments it finally fell to it's knees, seemingly in defeat. Nozomi was beaming! She'd beaten the creature and the feeling of battling like that was something she'd never done before and it felt amazing! "We did it!" She cried out happily.
While Cait sith on her shoulder, though he was happy they'd won. He couldn't help but feel that this was just too weird of a way to win! So he replied sarcastically, "yep you definitely hit a home run there lass!"
Curious at this comment as Poncho descended and hovered over her other shoulder, Nozomi asked, "what?"
Then suddenly something flew past the keyblader and her odd companions! Startling her and them as a gust of wind blew past, she cried out shocked, "what the-"
Turning of them saw the dark pulsating blue electrified orb! As they did they saw the ominous thing quickly enter the body of the smouldering horse, in seconds there was a reaction! As the monster started trembling all over and as it did quickly there was a rumbling in the ground!
Cait sith didn't need psychic powers to know that something really bad was going to happen! So quickly he told her, "lass I think ya better leg it! And ya better do it now!"
Hearing him even Nozomi could feel a horrible sense of foreboding and so quickly she replied to her feline companion, "you don't have to tell me twice!" With that quickly as the tremors in the floor started to get worse, the female keyblader began to run at full speed as behind her Poncho followed closely behind her.
At once from behind there was an almighty sharp piercing ringing as the monster horse rose from it's ashes and became bigger and the ice that returned and covered it was almost armour like now! It was like a tank and as it saw Nozomi and the others running at full speed, the creature remembered the horrible barrage it'd been met with and it was time for it's prey to pay it back in full!
In moments a shrieking and monstrous neigh filled the air as ice spread around the floor and across the walls, everywhere. It headed straight for Nozomi, Cait sith and Poncho!
Feeling a sudden chill in the air, Cait sith turned and saw the sudden icy effects coming straight their way! As he did he called out, 'oh lass! Jump! Get ya feet up!?"
Hearing him in moments Nozomi knew from the panicked tone there was no time to second guess, so she quickly complied as she flew into the air! As she did at once she saw the floor and the walls became icy white! Seeing this happen the female keyblader spoke up with dread, "oh not another slippery surface!"
Cait sith looking below himself, knew that this wasn't good! But suddenly something glittered from the corner of his eye! Turning he called out, "oh lass!"
Hearing him shout Nozomi knew in moments it was dodge time! With her wings helping her she spun away and as she did she saw another sharp icicle projectile being fired! However unlike the ones from before this one was huge! It was double the size! Surprised but relieved it missed her as she got out of its way fast!
Nozomi breathed out as her heart hammered away, "whoa that was close!"
But again, "lass look out for those ones!"
Hearing those two particular words Nozomi repeated worried, "those ones!?"
Then turning she saw a huge, huge barrage of them all coming straight towards her! Terrified she cried out, "aaaggghhh!"
With that she desperately weaved in out as best she could as the lethal sharp projectiles came straight at her! "Agh!" Spinning she dodged one! "Yah!" Then another as she spun quickly out of the way and then, "eek!" With that she jumped up and over it as though she was leap frogging, but then-
BLAST!
"Agggh!" She cried out, for suddenly out of nowhere she'd been struck in her belly! This quickly made her fall in the air!
Seeing this happen to her, Cait sith cried out desperately, "lass!"
In pain the female keyblader felt the worse case of ice burn ever! But not letting this get to her she landed on the ground as she began her retreat, holding her middle she did her best to run upon the slippery ice! Looking to Cait sith she cringed in pain as she told him with a struggling smile, "blundered there didn't I?'"
Hearing this the small cat was worried for his friend, but before he could say anything to her. He suddenly saw Poncho fly past and on ahead! As he did he looked there and quickly he saw why their weird pink little friend was making tracks, horrified he told her, "lass! Them 'Arc' guys!"
At once hearing him, Nozomi looked up forgetting her pain momentarily and as she did she saw terrified that both Juan and Alania were at the icy entrance of doom, which was the terrible jaws of Bebuzzu!
Seeing them getting there she cried out, "guys!"
But suddenly before she could do anything else, projectiles were being fired again as they quickly became embedded in the floor in front of her! Turning back Nozomi saw another huge barrage coming and quickly she started dodging in and out of them as fast as she could! But something had to be done otherwise!
Looking back at the creature as she dodged another ice beam that came thundering from the approaching monster's mouth, Nozomi breathed out frustrated, "darn it!" For this was becoming dire!
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Stressed out as they were both in front of the hellish freezer that was Bebuzzu's mouth, it wagged it's icicle laden tongue everywhere, bidding them horribly to enter the core of his ice burning abyss. Both Alania and Juan were shivering from the terrible cold that was emanating form it!
"Hope you guys both enjoy becomin' snacks!" Announced Peekaboo, for a moment he then paused as he licked away at a large purple sucker he'd pulled out from his rucksack. Stopping for a moment he then finished as he told them both, "because I know I enjoy 'em!"
At this comment Alania at that moment would have done anything to turn the chubby chocobo into a roast! Juan was just as angered, but because of the tendrils that covered his mouth. It was impossible to speak a word!
But suddenly arriving from behind was a certain old friend, seeing him float over Alania called out, "Poncho!?"
Juan the struggling 'Arc' Gunner turned his head as best he could and looked with surprised eyes to see his old pal, but why was here when-
"Looks like someone came back to become a snack too huh?" Peekaboo announced with a slight chuckle.
Angered Juan gazed at the taunting bird mad, but suddenly both he and Alania felt their horses lifting themselves up as they both reared themselves back!
Worried as they both felt this happen Peekaboo then announced, "time for the count down!" With that the munching bird began to do just that!
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In the meantime still struggling against the horrible reinforced tank like ice stallion, Nozomi was desperate to not be struck again by another blast of ice, or be impaled by one of the hurtling icicle projectiles! Bt this was easier said then done, for this monster was absolutely relentless!
Looking back at it as she shook trying to maintain her balance and bearing with the ice burn pain on her middle, Nozomi uttered to the creature, "guess this is pay back huh!? How ironic!"
Cait sith though told her mad, "lass forget about the darn ironies! We gotta save them lads!" He told her mad as he pointed back to where Juan and Alania were both being led to their demise!
Hearing him Nozomi replied as she leaped, "I know! I know that Cait sith!? But how can-"
Once again she was cut off as suddenly another projectile came flying at her, this made her have to leap out of the way again! But then as she saw it fly away into the distance... it clicked! She knew what to do!
Turning to her feline shoulder companion she asked him, "hey Cait sith? Ever be on a one way rocket trip?"
To which in reply the small black and white cat looked at her confused as he replied, "what're you prattling on about lass?"
In reply Nozomi simply smiled as she leaped again over another projectile but as she did, she moved her free hand and quickly grabbed Cait sith by the tail!
Feeling her suddenly do this, the small cat cried outraged, "ooowww! Oi! Ya daft banshee what're ya-"
Then suddenly all at once she swung Cait sith around and releasing him, he headed straight towards the projectile that was flying away underneath her! However before it could freeze the bewildered and shocked cat, Nozomi aimed her keyblade as she cried out, "Protect!"
In moments the dome shielding spell wrapped itself around the projectile as Cait sith landed on it and as he did, Nozomi flew forwards quick and smacking it with her keyblade, she re-aimed it! This made the projectile fly forwards and it was heading straight towards the helpless 'Arcs!'
Stunned that he was suddenly on this 'one way trip!' Cait sith turned around to see Nozomi still struggling and as he did he heard her call out to him, "you better put on a great show Cait sith! " With that she evaded again as another ice beam was sent flying her way.
As he heard this request, Cait sith turned around and then gripping the projectile hard with both his gloved paws he replied under his breath, "leave it to me lass!" With that he sped away fast and ready for rescue!
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The Merry Go Round horses both now reared back, Peekaboo began as he announced the countdown!
"One!"
Staring into the icy abyss that was to be her final resting place, Alania was terrified but then she thought immediately of her other friends, had they been in the same situation too? Or were they all already? The very idea pained her above all others, especially when she thought of her fellow adopted sister and friend, Shirma! Thinking of them all she whispered sadly, "guys!"
"Two!"
Juan was just shaking in his boots! But more than anything he didn't want to meet his demise in such an embarrassing state! If only he could get his darn face free and his hands! This was worse for him then that time when he'd been sucked in by shadows! If Teddie hadn't-
"Three!"
"Not so fast there ya horsey lemming's!"
At this sudden shout both Alania and Juan became shocked as did Peekaboo who cried out, "what the-"
"Protect!"
Summoning his powerful yellow glowing shield spell as he jumped into the air. A saviour had arrived! Now holding both captive 'Arcs' cupping them into the spell. It stopped them both from meeting their maker! Both Juan and Alania had widened eyes! But since she was the only one who could speak, the summoner called out to him with delight, "Cait sith!"
Giving them the thumbs up the small cat replied proudly, "in the flesh lass!" Then looking down he could see the two of them were still bound down tightly, "and it looks like yer both gonna be needin' a locksmith!"
With that he pointed his gloved paws to Juan first and at once another yellow shining spell escaped from them. It entered the binds that were tightly tying him down! After a moment the yellow shine from within the shadowy mess grew brighter and brighter when suddenly-
FLASH!
At once the terrible bindings that kept the gunner from speaking and moving were quickly disintegrated, as they were turned into nothing more than a yellow dusty cloud of dust!
Astonished that he'd finally been freed and was able to speak, Juan told his saviour, "WOW! Huge thanks to you Cait sith amigo! I thought I'd never be able to say a word again!"
Alania hearing this, though she was happy for him. She couldn't help but be sarcastic as she uttered, "though it would have probably been more of a blessing for some people!"
This stopping Juan in his tracks the bearded 'Arc' turned to his comrade as he felt a dagger had been pushed through his heart, "oh Alania señorita! Your words do sting!"
Cait sith was amused too, but quickly snapping out of this happy moment he told the young man, "well this ain't no time for jokes! Juan mate! That Nozomi lass needs help and she needs it now!"
Turning as he heard this Juan asked, "señorita Nozomi?"
Cait sith at once simply did a hard nod in reply!
As he did Juan then without a moment's hesitation saluted to the small cat as he told him, "I'm on my way," then turning he announced, "viva a liberdade!" With that in seconds the 'Arc' member took off as he went to go and assist Nozomi! With Poncho following quickly behind him!
Seeing him go Peekaboo shouted out, "hey get back here!" But it was too late as Juan was going fast at the speed of an ostrich!
Cait sith seeing the over weight bird complaining like this told him, "fat chance with that ya chubby!"
Hearing this comment annoyed Peekaboo in moments, but then he saw that Cait sith was about to use the same release spell on Alania! Quickly though the pink chocobo launched himself off of his own steed as he cried out, "oh no ya don't!"
With that landing upon Alania's lap he smacked the spell away and as he did, the summoner cried out angered, "hey!"
Cait sith then too spoke out mad, "why ya little-"
"Bebuzzu! Ya gotta a parasite here!" The small chocobo shouted out loud.
The terrible mouth growled angrily and as it did, the chunky icy tongue reached up and outwards! However Cait sith unaware of this repeated baffled, "parasite?" The tongue was getting closer as it reached over the shield and it was now aiming itself at the small cat! But Cait sith was outraged as he shouted mad, "who're ya callin' a parasite ya-"
"Cait sith!"
Alarmed by Alania's sudden shout Cait sith turned around and as he did suddenly the tongue reached down to grab him! But reacting quickly, the small cat jumped out of the way! As he did, the tongue then wrapped itself over the demonic horses head! It was then lifted into the air as it began to swing captive, captor and cat alike!
"AGGGGGHHH! Get me off this thing!" Came Alania's scream as she was being swung around like mad, she was beginning to get air sick!
Annoyed as he saw the tongue was struggling against his protect spell, Cait sith shouted out, "hey cut this out! Or I'll-!" However the small cat was cut off as he'd nearly lost his balance!
"This ain't gonna stop! I'll have ya both made into snacks if it's the last thing I do!" Peekaboo told both summoner and cat mad!
Angering Cait sith more he was about to answer back, but then he was cut off again as he was forced to hold on for dear life and with that the bitter struggle of tongue and shield carried on.
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"Agh! Wha! Whoa! OWWWW!" Nozomi was struck again by another ice beam and this time it was her right shoulder that was hit! The thrust of the attack sent her plummeting and crashing into the icy sheet that was spread across the stone laden floor! Trying to evade and get away from the projectiles along with the ice beams, it was harder for her since Cait sith was no longer with her and couldn't give her any prior warnings!
Cringing from the pain Nozomi was on her back and as she did she whispered bitterly, "darn it! This is-"
Suddenly she felt a shadow over her! Turning her head up she saw terrified that it was the horse monster over her! She couldn't use her keyblade now since her arm was hit! There was nothing for her to do!
The beast was ready to attack and as it brimmed with it's freezing horrible power, it was unleashing it! Nozomi braced herself as she cried out, "AAGGHH!"
"UNO! DOS! UNO! DOS! UNO! DOS!"
Suddenly as these foreign numbered words were shouted out, blasts of bullets rained out and in moments the monster stallion's concentration was broken as the attacks stung it badly!
Shocked at this sudden shot and seeing the monster being thrown back by the attacks, the female keyblader rolled out of the way of the new raining blasts. Then turning over as she came to a stop, Nozomi saw someone holding two guns in his hands which were golden and brown in colour with what looked like vibrant flames along their rims. Smoke was emanating from their nozzles as the one holding them both in each hand looked on with a fierce expression as he said determined, "ah cha!"
Nozomi couldn't believe who'd come as he continued on with a little speech, "like the taste of that my caballo de pesadilla!? For you will feel the wrath of I who flies in the night! I will be the itch you will not reach! I am-"
"Juan!" Nozomi cried out in astonishment, for she couldn't believe who'd come!
Seeing that he'd been interrupted, Juan turned and quickly losing his serious face he grinned as he replied to her, "Correct-o-mundo, señorita! I'm here to save you from this-"
However the monster was in no mood for speeches and regaining itself, it immediately fired another ice beam at the random gunner! Seeing the blast coming his way Nozomi cried out worried, "Juan!"
Looking at the attack coming at him with widened eyes Juan whispered, "oh no..."
The blast struck!
Worried Nozomi was silent with horror, but quickly getting up as best she could despite her pain she cried out again, "JUAN!?"
However there was nothing but silence in response... this was terrible! Turning Nozomi then saw the monster was turning it's attention back to her again! Gritting her teeth she went to call out her keyblade again, but then-
"Chaaaaarge!"
Suddenly more blasts rang out as they once again hit the monster! Turning Nozomi saw Juan in another spot! The attack had missed him and once again the fierce determined look had returned to the gunner's face!
The horse was angered again as it turned it's red enraged eyes back in Juan's direction! As the monster did this, the gunner then mocked it, "missed me! Missed me! Now ya gotta catch me! Ya dumb caballo!"
At the end of this taunting the monster immediately proceeded with it's attack as it began to unleash more and more of it's massive ice projectiles at Juan! However the elusive and agile gunner simply dashed around left and right as he ran here there and everywhere!
Then as another ice beam blast was sent straight at the gunner he laughed as he cried out, "ya da!" Again with that he began shooting with both his guns! This caused a lot of bitter sharp stinging damage to the monster as it shrieked from the pain! Seeing his attacks were making a huge painful impact on the beast, Juan mocked the monster more as he asked, "Oh? What's wrong caballo, is it tough? Let me know when you've had enough!"With that he continued shooting away at the monster!
Nozomi staring at Juan as he did this was left gobsmacked, for her first thoughts about this guy were that he was a bit of a fool! But now well... turning over she moved to get up but as she did suddenly a pair of familiar alien blue eyes met hers. It was Poncho!
Suddenly startled again she said nothing, but then hearing more blasting from behind her she knew this was no time for awkwardness! So getting up finally back onto her feet, she looked to Poncho for a moment, before turning back to the shooting that was happening... watching for a few moments as she saw the gunner continue with his frantic jumps, leaps and shots. She turned her gaze back to Poncho and as she did she told the odd reptile, "you've got a unique owner there Poncho!"
But as to be expected the reptile simply stared on blankly, but then shaking her head Nozomi simply smiled and then knowing it was time for her to enter back into the fray, she took her keyblade into her ice burning right hand. Lifting the 'Starseeker' into the air she called out, "Curaga!"
At once the sooting healing effects came over her body in moments and quickly the ice burning painful feelings were quickly removed! Opening her eyes as she was now fully re-energised, Nozomi turned to where Juan and the horse were still having it out at each other.
Gripping her keyblade tightly in her hand, Nozomi announced with determination, "let's go!" With that she ran forwards into battle as her wings took flight!
Still battling away with the horse as it tried to blast and impale him again, one, two and three more times! Juan returned the favour as he hit the creature with his own blasts! As he did this the monster shrieked in agony again. Juan then told the beast as he brought out both his guns in front of the monster's face, "ha! You can't touch this caballo! Just one more strike from me and you'll-!"
But the ice stallion enraged turned it's head and at once it opened it's mouth as an angry ice beam was ready to be shoved right in Juan's face!
He'd mucked up badly and the gunner knew it as he breathed out with a pale look on his face, "oops!"
Suddenly he felt a pull on his left foot, "wha-"
BLAST!
The attack came as the ice streamed out powerfully from the monster's mouth, but quickly it was clear it'd missed! For there having dragged him down in mid air and holding Juan by his left foot as he dangled down, it was none other than Nozomi!
Seeing that he'd been saved from the worst hellish case of ice burn, Juan turned to his rescuer with a pleased look on his face as he cried out, "Nozomi señorita!"
Looking to him as she held him Nozomi replied with a wink, "in the flesh!"
But there was no time for a discussion as suddenly the monster fired more icicle projectiles at the keyblader and gunner! Seeing it quick though Nozomi flew out of the way of this barrage and as she did Juan cried out, "hey! Ah! Whoa!"
But quickly avoiding all the projectiles as they crashed into the floor making dents left and right, Nozomi finally lowered Juan back onto the ground who was only too glad to be able to!
Looking to her the 'Arc' gunner told her, "gracias merciful señorita!"
Hearing this the female keyblader replied, "don't worry!" Then looking to the ice stallion which was now digging it's hoof into the ground, it was clear that it was ready to charge at the both of them!
However both her and Juan were just as ready to retaliate and so gripping her keyblade tightly she asked, "shall we finish this?"
In reply Juan gave her just one word with a smile, "absolutely!"
This made Nozomi grin too and quickly with that the two of them took off as they went to take down the monster!
Seeing them both coming the monster immediately acted as it again started firing more of it's deadly projectiles! However as they came raining forth both Nozomi and Juan struck them aside as the gunner took out the farthest ones, while the female keyblader used her keyblade to take out the stray ones!
Then the beast seeing this icy barrage was failing, it immediately changed it's tactics! It started to fire away using it's ice beams! At once seeing these terrible approaching freezing rays, Nozomi knew what attack to use but she had to first ask Juan, "you got a finishing move that'll be useful?"
At the question Juan waved both his pistols to her as he replied with a keen grin, "you bet!"
Glad to know this Nozomi replied, "great!" With that aiming her keyblade forwards she cried out, "Swift Star Rays!" At once the glittering stars emerged and striking the ice beams they each exploded one by one, as the stars made the beams disintegrate and vanish as they'd been given fast decoy targets to blast!
Then seeing that his way was clear, Juan brought out both his guns and as he did he started firing away at the monstrous ice stallion! The monster howled from the pain as each shot struck it! With that as each blow was fired quickly, the guns started to glow with a fierce fiery light!
As he proceeded to shoot away Juan could feel his power growing as he cried out, "Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!" Then he felt his limit break was reached and at once both his guns were lit up on fire!As they glowed vibrantly with red and yellow light they were brought together as suddenly they seemed to meld in the flames!
Nozomi watching on was amazed and as she continued to gaze on, she saw a new weapon emerge from the flames as the two guns had become a long big Winchester like Rifle, that was golden and red in colour!
Juan then seeing his limit break was ready, he aimed the powerful rifle at the monster and at once he shouted out loudly, "HAVE A NICE DREAM!"
As the powerful blow blasted forth the monster was bathed in a sea of annihilating flames that melted it right to it's core! Then finally it was pierced right though it's very centre as it ripped straight through!This left a huge splintering hole as the creature screeched in pure agony! Watching as this happened Nozomi then saw that around her and Juan that the ice that had once covered the floor and walls, had all quickly melted away and as it all did the monster collapsed onto it's legs as it's head was bowed.
Silent for a few moments... it then sunk in! "We did it!" Nozomi cried out happily truly pleased with relief!
"Only natural señorita!" Juan beamed as his powerful Winchester rifle quickly came apart and as it did, it quickly became the two guns once again which went into both of his opened hands.
Then watching this as it happened, Nozomi became curious and so she decided to ask, "Juan?"
Hearing his name being called the gunner looked at her puzzled as he replied, "hm?"
Nozomi then asked him, "those you guns you have? And that rifle before, what was that?"
As the question was asked neither Juan or Nozomi noticed the throbbing dark blue orb from before had left the body of the horse as it began to electrify the beast all over and as it did, it started to quietly raise itself back onto it's legs.
Juan though still unaware was happy to oblige in answering her question, "these señorita? These are custom designed little fire sting babies I had made for me! And my big bad boy you saw before was my Boomstick!"
Hearing this expecting something a little more sophisticated Nozomi repeated, "Boomstick?"
Juan nodded happily as he said, "oh yes señorita! You see it's-"
BLAST!
Suddenly the powerful blow came faster then either of them were ready for and quickly both of them were sent flying as they cried out, "AAAGGGGHHH!"
Then crashing into the floor they turned over quickly and saw that the horse had a risen again, however it seemed more... zombie like? For the body itself of the beast was all black and dark with only the pulsating dark orb upon its back giving it any form of life.
Seeing the creature like this Nozomi cried out, "what!? I thought it was down and out! Why-?!"
A piercing screech filled the air, cutting Nozomi off in moments as then the beast began to move forwards! Seeing the monster do this Juan aimed again as he shouted out, "take this you caballo de pesadilla!"
Then as his shots rang out both he and Nozomi saw that the shots were merely made to bounce of the creature as it came thundering, closer and closer to them both!
Looking to one another they both knew in moments this was bad as they said simultaneously, "oh no!" With that quickly without another word they started to both run for it in a desperate panicked state as the beast was getting closer and closer to catching up with them both! Poncho flew over his master's shoulder as he continued hovering away with the same vacant blank look on his face.
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Still struggling the terrible tongue was trying to get it's long overdue meal into it's jaws! However that protect spell was still as impenetrable as before!
Cait sith in the meantime was struggling badly to keep himself on the horse as well as trying to get Alania free, but this was proving more difficult than easy as now Peekaboo was throwing big jawbreakers at him that he was pulling out of his rucksack!
"Take this! Take that! And this!" The chubby pink chocobo shouted as he was doing his best to make that meddlesome cat topple over!
Gritting his teeth and trying not to fall from this barrage as a jawbreaker hit him in the head, Cait sith told that chocobo, "I'm gonna make ya take somethin' when I-"
Once again there was another hard shake which cut off the small cat as the hungry mouth was getting more and more impatient!
Though the mouth wasn't the only one becoming impatient, for Alania had had enough of being bound down! As she was swung, she thought to herself, 'if only I could just stop that dumb chocobo! If only I could move I would-'
Then something struck her! Her arms couldn't move! Her legs couldn't! But there was one part of her that did still could move! Looking down then and seeing where Peekaboo was seated... she knew this idea could work!
Cait sith still struggling away as he was pelted at with sweet after sweet and jawbreaker, decided to try and have another go at trying to set Alania free! So smacking his fists together as he got up he proclaimed, "all right this time I'll-"
But suddenly there was another big shake and as this happened the small cat started to topple backwards! He was balancing on one foot and as he did, suddenly he heard a shout, "hah! Now I got ya!"
Trying to see as best he could as he moved his head forwards, he saw that Peekaboo had an extra large jawbreaker aimed at him! If that thing hit him, that was the end!
Peekaboo knew this too and so rolling his wing he prepared an extra hard throw! Then as he was about to throw it he announced, "now this'll send ya to the-"
Suddenly the small chocobo was cut off as he was shoved forwards into the pole in the middle of the demon horse! For Alania had pushed forwards with her stomach and now she had Peekaboo pinned!
Shocked by this the chocobo dropped his jawbreaker and he tried to speak! But he couldn't and Alania told him mad, "now who's the one who's pinned!" In reply all Peekaboo could do was simply struggle to no avail!
Surprised himself at what had just happened the small black and white cat was silent but then Alania looking at him said, "c'mon Cait sith! Get me free now!"
At this demand the small cat was more than happy to comply as he replied, "you got it!" Then as though he was throwing a baseball, the glowing yellow spell was sent flying into Alania's bonds!
Feeling it entering in moments the black tendrils that had kept her hands and legs confined were quickly dissolved into particles of yellow light as they were quickly made to fade away! Pleased to finally be free Alania couldn't contain herself as she jumped upon the back of the horse and cried out loud for all to hear, "yes!"
Though there was one individual who wasn't happy as he turned from where he was lying and said, "oh no...!"
Looking down and seeing who'd said this, Alania then saw that it was Peekaboo. Seeing him a dastardly smile covered her face and as it did she told him sounding sinister, "oh...? I nearly forgot about you!"
Not liking the look on her face there was nothing that Peekaboo could do! Then suddenly as there was huge twist to the right, Alania took out her right hand and in moments in a quick glitter of magic, a long pink staff emerged with a red crystal at it's top with a unique light twin curled lined design around it, they looked almost like ears!
Cait sith was amazed to see the staff too as he held onto the horses head with both his paws! Alania smiling as her staff was now in her hand, she looked down to Peekaboo and as the terrified chocobo looked at her, she took the mystical instrument with both hands and with a huge shout she cried, "FOUR!"
With that suddenly Peekaboo was struck and sent flying! As he was he cried out, "YEOW!"
Then quickly he landed upon the long tongue and as he did, the terrible long thing quickly let go of the Merry Go Round horse it'd been holding, this then made both Alania and Cait sith jump off it before it hit the ground! Quickly the long slippery thing wrapped itself tightly around Peekaboo!
Shuddering as he felt the terrible cold effects come over his entire body, the small chocobo was terrified as he cried out, "BRRR! IT'S FREEZIN'! MASTER BEBUZZU LET GO OF ME!"
However it was clear that the tongue had no intention of doing so as it swung the helpless fat chocobo here, there and everywhere!
Meanwhile gazing up from below Alania shouted up as she said to the chocobo, "hah! Now you're the one who's the snack!"
Cait sith looking on couldn't help but grin too! Turning around he was about to congratulate the smart thinking summoner when-
"AAAAHHHH! ALANIA!"
Shocking both her and the small cat they turned around to see both Nozomi and Juan being chased still by that horrible zombie like horse which was after them at a horrendous speed!
Looking at this sight with queer eyes, neither of them could believe it! But then Juan cried out again, "make with the pop ups! Or we'll-"
Then he was interrupted as the beast tried to blast them both with another huge dark lightning ice blast! Both of them just barely dodged it!
Cait sith looking on asked shocked, "oh what the heck did those bloomin' twits do!?"
Feeling awkward seeing the sight they were both being chased by, Alania told the small cat, "I don't know..." but knowing it was time to get serious she told the small cat, "but it's up to me to fix it!"
Confused at this last sentence Cait sith asked her, "fix it?"
But he became quiet as Alania took a step forwards with her long pink staff tightly clasped in her right hand, reaching with her left hand she pulled something out from a small blue bag on her left side. Rummaging as she felt what was ever inside, she found what she wanted as she brought it out.
Meanwhile still running, Nozomi was still desperate to get away from the zombified horse and as she turned around for a moment and she saw with horror that the creature was almost on top of them both! Then feeling it's breath over her she cried out terrified, "WHOOOAA!"
However Alania was preparing something as she concentrated hard while she started to glow brightly with orange and red light! Cait sith looking at her as this mystical experience was happening was mesmerised! He'd only seen something like this once before and remembering it he asked her, "you're-"
"AAAAGGGGHHHH!"
Interrupting the small cat both utterly panicked Nozomi and Juan ran past them and as they did the maid clad keyblader turned back to her freed friend as she cried out, "Alania!"
However the girl concentrating hard still had her eyes closed, but then the monster came over her and it was about to unleash its full fury on her!
But Alania was going to unleash hers first! Opening her eyes they were hard and fierce as she spun and then smacking a particular something with her staff as she cried out, "IFIRIT COME FORTH!" Then at these words, the object she had smashed glowed in a flash of red vibrant light and in moments an enormous shape emerged!
Stopping at the sight the monster was taken off guard as suddenly with a mighty swing of sharp piercing claws, it was sent hurtling backwards as it crashed into the floor making a huge cracked crater! Then as this happened both Nozomi and Juan had come to halt and turn as they both heard a huge bellow!
"RRROOOAAARRGGHH!"
Looking the two of them saw an enormous creature with long sharp black coloured claws on two huge muscle laden arms. It had a long vibrant burning mane of orange fire that reached down to a long tail that waved behind it! The rest of it was brown in tone and colour as it stood upon it's hind legs with a chained collar tied around it's neck. It's golden yellow eyes were fierce with agitation and was ready to attack!
As Nozomi looked at the creature, to her it reminded her of a werewolf, or was it a lion? She couldn't tell, but she knew one thing was for sure! She'd never seen a beast like this before! What was it?!
Alania in the meantime seeing that she'd thrown the creature back looked up to her summon and quickly she told him as the monster started to get up again,"give this thing a one way blast!"
Then in reply with something like a growling grunt, the summoned beast went to comply! In the distance the monster horse had gotten up and looking to the summon was clearly enraged! It dug it's hoof into the ground and quickly in moments it charged forwards at it!
Ifrit though was ready for this! For as quickly as the horse came again, the summon struck it with it's claws! With one strike! Then another! This sent the monster backwards and then kicking the thing in the face with one of its hind legs, Ifrit lifted itself into the air!
Watching as he did this everyone watched as the summon gathered two huge burning orange orbs into it's clawed fists! Then looking down at the monster it threw the orbs forwards! The zombie horse looking up at the burning sphere had no time to run and quickly it was bathed in a huge pillar of flames! At once a huge screech filled the air as the thing was in agony!
Everyone was wide eyed in shock at this show of power! But it wasn't over yet as suddenly the summon created one last huge sphere that was breathed from it's mouth! However unlike the first two this one was coloured scarlet red and it glowed all over with fierce electric yellow light! It almost seemed to be like a raging sun!
Alania watching as this sphere built up then knew it was time! So pointing her staff she shouted, "Ifrit let's do it!"
At his master's command, Ifrit unleashed the sphere and as he did the powerful blast raced forward at a lightning fast speed! As it did it clashed into the burning pillar and quickly it became a huge torturous inferno! As this happened the horse screeched even louder than before as also the horrible dark orb that was it's core was also was being incinerated!
Then as it reached it's climax, Alania shouted out loudly as it was time now for the final blow,
"HELLFIRE!"
Immediately at this shout the final blast came as a huge explosion echoed out left and right! This completely destroyed the monster as the last of it's shrieks died away! As it did both the core and it's body faded and vanished away in a breeze of smouldering ashes... it was over!
Peekaboo couldn't believe what had happened! Still being held by the freezing tongue of Bebuzzu he uttered, "no way!" Then suddenly before he knew it, he was dropped as he landed with a painful thud on the ground.
Hurting himself as he landed Peekaboo cried out, "ooowww! What the-"
He stopped as he watched and saw the freezing mouth of Bebuzzu writhe and turn in agony and as it did, in moments it vanished away into a huge cloud of sparkling blue ice splinters and darkness...
Seeing this the small chocobo was silent but then turning around he saw the freed 'Arcs' and keyblader along with Cait sith stare at him mad!
As he saw them he quivered in his feathers, but more than anything he was not looking forward to the wrath that would be coming from lady Irma! Quickly though he made to take his exit as he quickly climbed upon the back of his dark stallion and before vanishing he told them all, "just you wait! We'll all get you for this!" With that in moments the small bird vanished with his steed into a portal of darkness!
Seeing him go like this Alania then said feeling smug, "oh yeah, I'm so scared hearing that from a coward!"
Then as she said this she suddenly she felt something nudge into her from behind, looking she saw it was Ifrit. Seeing her summon her eyes softened as she told him putting a hand to his furry cheek, "thanks... thanks a lot old friend."
Feeling his master stroking him, Ifrit pushed his head into her gentle touch as he was glad for the praise. Then in moments as he removed his head from her touch, he glittered and shone as he immediately returned to his original form which Alania now held in her right hand. A glowing warm red and orange coloured summon stone which she placed back into her blue summon gem bag.
Seeing her do this Nozomi couldn't help but say aloud, "aww that was so sweet!"
"Aye it was lass!" Then running up Cait sith launched himself forwards as he sat himself on her shoulder as he finished, "that it was!"
Nozomi simply smiled more as did Juan but then as he did he turned his head to the side as he said aloud looking serious, "now kids what happened here was really dangerous! Though I know that shooting and summoning things can be real fun and useful! Please don't try and do this at home!"
Hearing him say this Nozomi and Cait sith looked at the 'Arc' gunner with odd eyes, Alania walked over as she asked, "what're you babbling about this time you hobo?"
However quickly turning around the gunner replied to his comrade, "oh nothing señorita! Oh and please don't call me a hobo! You know I hate it so!"
Nozomi unsure of this asked, "hobo?"
Alania though looking on with cool eyes with a smile on her face replied with an air of sarcasm, "whatever! But anyway I guess we all really kicked butt huh?"
Hearing this Cait sith replied just as pleased, "yeah we all did! Though some in a more messy way than others!" To which he turned his face to look at Nozomi for a brief moment before looking away.
At this comment Nozomi complained loudly, "hey why'd you look at me when you said that!"
This in turn simply made Alania and Juan laugh aloud, however Nozomi annoyed turned her head as she said, "hmph! Excuse me for not fighting so well! We were in a hurry you know and-"
Then suddenly it struck her! Turning around she asked quickly, "guys! Did you see Irma fly through this way!"
Hearing the high amount of concern in her voice, Juan looked to Nozomi as he asked her, "Irma?"
Nozomi then nodded as she told them both, "yeah! She came riding through here with Oralee captive behind her! Did either of you see her!?"
At the mention of his princess, immediately Cait sith became worried too and so quickly he asked the two 'Arcs,' "yeah lads!? Did ya see me highness at all!?"
Quiet at this question, it was then it dawned on them both as their eyes lit up, Alania was the first to answer "that's right I remember now she did! Though she sped on really fast, Oralee was with her! But she vanished away into a dark portal just before Peekaboo summoned that freeze hell mouth!"
Juan nodding confirmed things, "yeah! Poor princesa Oralee! I hope she's okay along with our other amigo's!"
Nozomi then quickly replied, "yeah... but, what do we do now? How do we-"
Suddenly the keyblader was interrupted as a ringing sound filled the air! Turning to look in the direction it was coming from, everyone saw something glowing and shining in the darkness.
Seeing it Alania asked, "what is... that?"
Looking at it as she squinted Nozomi began to reply, "I think that-"
However cut off again her keyblade came to her hand in a sparkle of light and as it did she looked to it quietly. Turning to look at Cait sith for a moment she looked away from it, he then nodded to her as he silently answered her question. In response she nodded to him too and with that she took her keyblade and jumping back she aimed it!
In moments there was a reaction as a beam of light raced from the end of it and quickly it entered the shape of a keyhole that suddenly emerged as the light entered it! Quickly as this happened a sound of clicking occurred as something had opened within it! Then just as quickly as it had emerged it then faded away...
Seeing this as it happened Juan was amazed as he said, "whoa! Now that was a real light show muchacho's! Just what was-"
But quickly there was no more time to speak as suddenly around everyone a huge circle of light surrounded them! As it did Nozomi looked to Cait sith and smiled as she said, "yeah! It was a seal point!"
"Aye lass! Now let's hope we meet all the lads and get me highness back on the other side!" Cait sith proclaimed as he was trembling with anticipation!
Hearing him Nozomi smiled as she gave her response, "yeah let's!"
With that she, Cait sith Juan and Alania with Poncho following closely behind who entered the light too. All of them were transported as they vanished into the depths of the darkened skies... The final sealing point had been unlocked...