While in his sleep, he couldn't help but hear a voice, he wasn't sure what it was at first. He assumed it must be Huepow, but the voice became more clear, it sounded like that of a girl. Only she was speaking to him in a hopeful tone.
"You have come a long way, I had been waiting."
Aero: You, , ,who are you?
"I am the one who is trapped within the darkness. The one trapped by the dark spirit."
Aero: Wait, , ,you're the Songtress?! But hows that possible?
"I am only able to use enough of my power to speak with you. . .Your journey, I know has not been easy. I know your brother has been able to pull off this task.
Aero: You knew my brother huh. . .Well I knew he would be ready for anything. Yet after this adventure, I could tell he was hurting.
"You care deeply for him, along with those who have effected your life. I only ask, what is it that made you want to help him?"
Aero: . . . It's cause, i'm his big brother. And I want to understand why Huepow did that to him. . .Seeing all of this, makes me appreciate how much he's gone through, both the good and the bad. I just wish that it was more of a normal meeting.
"Do you hate him? For what he has done to your little brother?"
Aero: Not as much, but I know when this is over, I'd want to find out for myself.
"It's good to know that, despite all that has happened, your heart is in the right. Remember to be brave. Ghadius is waiting, be careful for he is far more powerful then any foe you have faced before, , ,But I do believe you will achieve victory."
Aero found himself waking up from his sleep, his senses returning and was looking around. He could see that the sun had begun to set, and how he felt that they would need to go to the Moon Kingdom, and face against the dark spirit. Aero looked down at the sleeping prince, who appears to be in a peaceful state. The cabbit took the time to reflect upon all that's happened on this adventure. All the inhabitants they met, the locations and how much him and Huepow had been through. It made him understand how much Klonoa did what he had to do, and it's no wonder the pain and heart broken it was for him to leave. Getting to know Huepow personally and how he was willing to help and do what he can to help his people and those of other lands. He's starting to see that he too must've been pushed into doing this without much of a choice.
Aero: Huepow. . .I see why Klonoa saw you as a friend. You aren't a horrible person, rather someone who's trying their hardest to fix this mess that Ghadius made. But I don't fully understand, why my brother? What did you see in him that you needed his help? But mostly, why do that to him? He would've helped if you had just asked? . . .When this is over, i'll get the answers I came for.
When he finished he hears Huepow waking up, letting out a yawn and getting the sleep from his eyes.
Aero: Hey there sleepyhead, boy you sure were tired.
Huepow: Oh I'm sorry I didn't mean to fall asleep on you!
Aero: It's no trouble, besides I kind of took a nap myself so no harm done.
Huepow: Oh ok, , ,you know Klonoa, I never really said this before, but your fur is really soft.
Aero: You really think so?
Huepow: Yeah it was very soft where I felt like I was on a cloud.
Aero: Well glad I could provide that heh heh.
Huepow: How're your injuries, are they better?
Aero: They don't hurt as much like before, so I should be good to continue.
Huepow: That's good to hear, I thought it wasn't good enough.
Aero: Huepow why would you think that? You've really helped me out when I was in trouble. And to be honest I couldn't have asked for a better partner, let alone a friend.
Huepow: You, you really mean that Klonoa?
Aero: Yeah, ever since we started this journey, I felt like I got a better understanding of you. And we've come this far haven't we?
Huepow: . . .You're right. I guess I'm just nervious about having to go into a place where Ghadius will be. But I'm going to try and be brave!
Aero: There you go, that's the spirit! We'll do this together, and take down that creep for good.
When the sun sets and all seemed calm, a sudden glow appeared within the sky. Beams of light aimed to the three locations and summoned a mighty grand castle, made of crystals. It was massive and Aero could not believe his own eyes, it was both breath taking yet also beautiful. But then they witnessed the escape of dark energy that made the cabbit boy's fur stand straight, his eyes going primal with sharpen fangs revealed, and was snarling like that of mix between a feline and canine. Huepow pointed out that it was nightmare energy, making Aero's instincts to go into alert. They both knew that this was it, when they road onto Pamula's back they both made their way to Cress.
Once they landed at the very bottom of the palace, Aero felt that this would be the longest area they'll need to go through. But he also noticed Huepow looking at him with a curious expression, to which he asked if something was up. Only for Huepow to avoid the question with insisting they get going, to which they do. Inside Aero could tell that the prince maybe onto who he is, but chose to leave it at that. For now, they had traveling to to. And this place was not only massive, but also contains a maze. Meaning he would need to keep knowledge as to where he's been and which pathway would be correct. However it wouldn't be as simple, given how massive the place was and that there were enemies of both old and new, to prevent them from getting further. Aero however made use of his super jumps to avoid the more tricky platforms. though there were points where he accidently hit his head on the ceiling a few times by a few miss jumps. But for the most part the duo managed to get through and were riding up an elevator. They met with the queen of Cress and Aero learns about Huepow's real form. He tried his best to maintain a straight face, but on the inside.
Aero: -Pffft wow I never would've imagined him looking like this, and how he looks like when Klonoa had his, it's adorable!-
Huepow tried explaining his reason that the spirit form was a way to get out of the palace, which was half true and Aero knew there was more to that, as it wasn't fully a lie. He also learned that Ghadius has taken over the palace. And was going to bring fourth a dangerous entity with the power of nightmares. Huepow asked Aero if he could help a little bit longer, the dire sound was pretty clear. He knew that this would mean he would have to do everything in his power to take out this threat, while also being ready to get the answers he's come for. He was after all, doing this for Klonoa, his brother whom he swore he would help, and as the oldest, he shall do just that. And thus he agreed with a smile on his face.
The duo make their way where there was one thing standing in their way, a hallway with a bunch of large barriers that was preventing them from reaching the very top. They go through and Aero was hit with more puzzles and platforming, however these were really testing his patients and nerves. Enemies were also not making it easy as they keep on getting in the way, along with almost making him miss the jump, where he almost slipped off. It also did not help that the cabbit was feeling pressure due to the puzzles being timed.
Aero: I have to ask Huepow, who in the heck in their bright mind thought that adding puzzles as defenses was a good idea?!
Huepow: I don't really know myself, the people of Cress thought that it needed something to keep out intruders!
Aero: Well it really does work in that department! I swear this place is more frustrating then any of the monsters we've faced!
A few fails later Aero was able to get passed and even to the final locked door. However the cabbit was out of breath due to Boomies and how much energy he used to get to this point. And Huepow actually had the idea that they should take a break. Which the cabbit took a seat on the floor and that they were safe for the time being.
Huepow: Klonoa we've really come a long way, haven't we.
Aero: -panting- Yeah we sure have. And I couldn't have done it without your help. But I'll be honest, I feel a little bit sad that it'll be over soon.
Huepow: I mean yeah, but we can at least get through it together. . .You know Klonoa, you've really been a great friend, the best I could ever ask for.
Aero: Aww that really means a lot.
Huepow: Um if I have to ask, all those skills you used, the way you handled the monsters, and how much you were determined to take down Joka after what happened. But there is something I can't seem to figure it out. What both him and Ghadius were talking about, it's like they knew something, where I didn't. . .Klonoa, who are you?
Aero: . . .I guess you could say, I'm someone who wants to help others. And just a guy who loves adventures heh heh heh.
Huepow; Hmm, well its good to know your heart is in the right. You are one of a kind.
Aero: And I'm guessing being a prince has it's points.
Huepow: Not always, in fact it get's really lonely. I mean yeah people here are nice, but not like friends that mean well. If anything I want to make friends, on my own.
Aero: Gosh, that really does sound lonely. . .I can only imagion how sad for anyone to be in that position.
Huepow: Say Klonoa, mind if I ask you something? It's important.
Aero: Huh? Sure what is it?
Huepow: If you did something you would regret later, but it would be too late to do anything about it. What would you do?
Aero: . . . I'm not so sure, I would sometimes think about it, and it would hurt, , , a lot. But if I meet them again, it would be scary at first, but knowing what's important. I would be honest and explain my reasons. And if they know me and how I am, i'm sure it will work out. The most important thing is having a strong bond and trust. It's where your heart lies within.
Huepow: A heart, that lies within. . .Thanks Klonoa, I'm glad I asked.
Aero: Hey it's no trouble. I can understand being scared, and are not so sure weather it'd be for good or bad means. But how do why find out, if we don't believe in ourselves, and those we care about? It is always worth a try.
This seemed to ease the prince by a lot. In fact he felt that the cabbit was giving some good advice. Aero had his suspisions that the prince was up to something but didn't want to pursue yet. The duo knew that they would need to press onward, and with getting past the last remaining obstacles in their way, they had unlocked the final seal. But before they reach the top, Aero noticed a giant dark egg in the center. It was giving off an eerie red aura, fallowed by the sounds of what could be described as comparing to a heartbeat. The creature that was inside, gave the cabbit a really bad vibe.
Aero: -So this must be where the nightmare beast Nahatomb must be waiting in. I could only imagion Klonoa being intimidated before even seeing the thing!-
He couldn't get anymore distracted, they managed to make it to the very top. Where the nightmare king was waiting. His back facing them, Both Aero and Huepow were ready to take him down, that was until the dark spirit spoke. This was a different, the tone wasn't anger, rather calm and collected, if not ominous still.
Ghadius: You have taken your time into arriving. But those do not matter now.
He then goes on how he was once one of the 5 spirits that keep Phantomile's dreams in balance, how he was rejected and feared by, thus casting into the world of darkness for 3000 years. This made Aero have mixed feelings, but most was from shocked due to getting to hear it from this dark spirit. The aura they gave off was tense, but more in a way that tells Aero that he needed to be careful. The tone he was speaking in, while still talking in the ominous tone. If not for a hint of anger within. And how he would use this power to unleash Nahatomb onto the world to make it into a world of chaos and despair. Aero was expecting the unexpected at this point, however Ghadius said something different, one that caught Huepow by surprise.
Ghadius: Strange, this power, , , it is different compared to the last strange dream's. One with more power, how curious.
Aero: -Strange dream? Could he mean Klonoa?-
Huepow: What are you talking about?
Ghadius: It is faint yet familiar. You have the same form, yet your aura only seems to mask the strange dream's.
Instead of sounding angry, the dark spirit seemed interested in testing this one's will power and endurance. Aero felt a chill run down his back, his ears went back as his fight or flight instincts were kicking in. Something about this opponent won't be as simple like the others, the power and aura Ghadius loomed with, was a true testament as to how far he has come. And how Aero will have to put into everything he's got. Whatever tricks and attacks will come his way, he has to be ready for.
Ghadius: Let us see if you truly are as your dream energy shows.
With a sudden burst of magic, the area was turned into a more nightmarish void, with the nightmare king looming above the cabbit. The emotionless red eyes staring at them. It starts off with enemies and debrief falling, where Aero dodges and grabs the enemies, then aims at the dark spirit in the process. But missed his jump and has fallen into some green portals, where he was on the outside. Where Ghadius was unleashing energy waves, that the cabbit managed to dodged. Just as he gets into the portal, Aero used the windy shield to protect himself for a moment, and shot a light wind arrow from the ring, it seemed to have awaken the ring's main attack.
This seemed Ghadius change up his attack patterns. Huepow was shocked while Aero caught off guard. And it was the use of powerful winds like a tornado, along with lightning strikes. Which Aero had just barley dodged, but got blown around by the dark twister. His injuries before had come back but much more painful. In fact it almost caused him to be flung off the platform and into the void. The cabbit managed to grab hold of the edge, grabbed an enemy and tossed it at the nightmare king.
This seemed to cause the hazards to seize, letting Aero to get his footing while also noticed Ghadius was looking rather weakened from the amount of damaged he received. But the dream traveler couldn't stop yet, he knows that this foe had more up his robes. The pattern had changed to that of beams of light and moos inside it, meaning Aero needed to find a way to get the ammo, while also not being sliced like butter.
Aero:-He's getting weaker, but I'm not doing so hot myself! if I'm hoping to take this creep down, I got to get that cage open somehow! Come on Aero, think!-
He glanced while also avoiding the lasers, until he spotted a small opening that would work. And he had a rather crazy idea.
Huepow: Klonoa now would be a good point to have a plan! WAHHH!
Aero: I do but I need you to trust me on this one ok?!
Huepow: Ok what is your idea!?
Aero: When I aim, use your power to strike! It should open that case!
Huepow felt that this plan was crazy and might not work if they off timed it. Still they needed to try. As the case was close enough where the gap was, Aero takes aim and blasts it open, having the chance, he uses his windy tornado to scoop up the enemies and tossed them at the dark god. Which was enough to put an end to him. They were back in the room at the tower, Aero trying to keep himself from collapsing while he was catching his breath. That battle had taken a lot out of him, but was relived that he could catch a break. Both him and Huepow had noticed that Pamula, Karal and the four residents of their lands have come to congratulate them for their bravery and efforts. However that was cut shortly as they heard Ghadius's voice. As they see that the only thing remaining was his golden head piece, it spoke something, that did not sound like he was dying, rather it was the opposite, it sounded more like a contempt tone.
Ghadius: As I suspected, this strange dream has shown to be far more powerful then the one who had come before. . .
Aero:-Wait was he talking about Klonoa? But wasn't he killed? If not, , ,then could Ghadius still be alive? If that's the case, then why would he return here?-
Ghadius: Hear this child of the dream. You have managed to survive against an ancient being, one who's been blinded by vengeance. Well done. . .however, how much of your power will be to defeat, the ultimate nightmare?
As the dark king had fallen, the room began to rumble and a loud roar could be heard beneath them. Out flew was something large and this feeling made the prince even more determined to put an end to it. The others would go on ahead to get the sacred weapon. But Aero felt that this new threat, Nahatomb was much more serious, and given how he would need to be ready to face it.
Aero: -Nahatomb a being of nightmares. The demon that many feared if it were to return. I know I said I would help, but. . .Can I really do this? I'm already at my limit after that last fight.-
Just as he was getting up, The cabbit felt his heart beating at a pace that wasn't normal, he fell to his hands and knees. Arms were shaking, his vision began to blur and before he knew it, he collapsed and blacked out. With the only thing that could briefly be heard were the cries of Huepow.
Huepow: Klonoa, Klonoa what's wrong?! Hey come on wake up! Klonoa!
End of Chapter