CHAPTER 19: Through the Looking Glass
2 DAYS AGO...
[Cut to the Owl House living room]
We find Sora, Luz, and Willow sitting on the couch.
Sora: Ok, Willow. Ready to tell Master Yen-Sid the good news?
Willow: You bet.
Sora: It shouldn't take long. As soon as we're done, we'll eat.
Luz: Good thing you just finished prepping.
Sora: Mmhm. Ok.
Sora takes out his Gummiphone and dials Master Yen-Sid.
Sora: Here we go.
The phone rang a bit until Master Yen-Sid answered.
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Magical Mystery- Extended]
Master Yen-Sid: Hello, Sora.
Sora: Hey, Master.
?: Sora?
Sora recognized the voice.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Magical Mystery- Extended]
Sora: Wait...Roxas?
Luz/Willow: Roxas?
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Roxas- Extended]
Then Roxas walked next to Master Yen-Sid's chair to get in view of the Gummiphone call.
Sora: Roxas!
Roxas: Sora!
Excited to see each other again, Sora and Roxas caused Luz and Willow to smile.
Luz: Aw.
Willow: ...Roxas...
Roxas: How've you been, Sora?
Sora: Doing good. What brought you to the tower?
Roxas: Axel, Xion, and I just got back from a patrol mission. I stayed behind to give the report. By the way, Master Yen-Sid told us everything that happened since you left. To think you found two new Keyblade wielders, that's good news.
Sora: Funny you should mention that...
Roxas: Huh?
Sora moves out of the way for Luz to come into view.
Luz: Hi, Roxas. I'm Luz. Nice to meet you.
Roxas: Oh! You're the Luz I've heard about. Nice to meet you too.
Luz: Hi again, Master.
Master Yen-Sid: Hello, Luz. I assume Amity is with you as well?
Luz: Actually, she's not here.
Roxas: Oh, I was hoping to meet her.
Luz: Don't worry, you will. Buuut...
Roxas: Hm?
Sora comes into view.
Sora: We have some exciting news!
Roxas: What is it? Did you find Kairi at last?
Sora: Err... Not yet. I'm still working on the plan to get her. But this news is just as exciting. *turns his head to his left* Come here.
Sora moves out of the way and allows Willow to come into view, albeit a little shy.
Willow: Hello, I'm Willow. A friend of Sora's and Luz's. Nice to meet you.
Roxas: Oh, nice to meet you too.
Willow: Hello again, Master Yen-Sid.
Master Yen-Sid: Hello to you as well, Willow. Now, what is this news Sora spoke of?
Willow: Well...
Willow extended her right hand and summoned her Keyblade, surprising Roxas and Master Yen-Sid.
Roxas: Woah!
Master Yen-Sid: My word!
Willow's Keyblade intrigued both Roxas and Master Yen-Sid. As they inspect closely, they see the grip is oak brown colored. The collar is shaped into leaves, while the shaft and pin are pure green, resembling a flower stem. The cross guard is shaped like vines with two large thorns on each end. Top to bottom. The blade and teeth take the shape of an orchid and petals. And finally, the Keychain token is the shape of the Plant Coven sigil.
Sora: That's right! Willow is our third Keyblade's chosen!
Roxas: Third?!
Master Yen-Sid: This is quite wondrous... Luz, Amity, and now Willow... Three new Keyblade wielders among us.
Roxas: The others are gonna flip when they hear about this! *takes out his Gummiphone* I'm gonna message them right now!
Master Yen-Sid: Willow, I believe congratulations are in order for you.
Willow: *giggles* Thank you.
Master Yen-Sid: Do tell. How did you unlock your Keyblade's power?
Willow: Oh...um...
Sora and Luz place their hands on her shoulders.
Sora: We can tell the story if you want.
Willow: No, it's ok. I got it.
Both Sora and Luz nod as they let her. Willow told the story of what happened yesterday. The ordeal with Boscha, the witches' duel, how she unlocked her Keyblade through the Awakening, and how she won the duel. Both Master Yen-Sid and Roxas showed sympathy as well as slight indignation.
Roxas: So...a bully was giving you and the others a hard time. And by standing up to her to settle the score, you unlocked your Keyblade.
Willow: Yes.
Master Yen-Sid closes his eyes and folds his arms with a frown.
Master Yen-Sid: Hmmmm. It is disappointing how an adolescent embraced the darkness in her heart to act in such a juvenile and heinous manner. That being said, I hope she does not stray into that path for much longer. I do not wish to see or hear anyone succumb to darkness entirely.
Sora: Yeah, well... Hopefully, that defeat of hers will be the wake-up call she needs.
Master Yen-Sid: *nods* Hm. Now then, I am intrigued by the power that drives your heart, Willow.
Willow: Hm?
Master Yen-Sid: Based on your Keyblade, you are someone who is attuned to nature itself.
Roxas: Huh?
Willow: Oh, yeah. It makes sense. What with me being in the Plant track and all? I especially love flowers.
Master Yen-Sid: Yes. There is also a deeper meaning to your connection to nature. You see, all living beings are connected to nature. For we are joined in a foundation of life, meaning one cannot thrive without the other. And by gaining courage as your power, you've become even stronger, physically and emotionally, like the oak tree.
Willow: Oak tree?
Master Yen-Sid: Yes. The oak tree is often seen as the spiritual embodiment of longevity, strength, stability, endurance, fertility, and power. The traits that you will one day display to their full potential.
Willow: Oh, I see. Yeah...courage.
Roxas: Courage...
Willow, Luz, and Sora turn to Roxas.
Willow: Hm?
Roxas: The trait you've gotten, the power that gave you the strength to stand against the odds in front of you. Many of us felt and needed that whenever we were in trouble. In fact, I can relate to what you went through.
Willow: With Seifer, right?
Roxas: You know about him?
Willow: Yeah, Sora told me the story. And about how he had to deal with him and his gang as well.
Roxas: Oh. Yeah...he was a real jerk. Well, from my perspective, there's more to the story anyway.
Willow: Really? How?
Roxas: Well, to make a long story short... I, along with Hayner, Pence, and Olette, have been accused of being thieves by Seifer. And, of course, he spreads that all over Twilight Town.
Willow and Luz frowned.
Willow: That's terrible.
Luz: What a real jerk.
Roxas: I know. And every time my friends and I confronted Seifer and his gang, he would taunt and instigate fights with us. Finally, he shut up when I beat him up in a Struggle match. But, of course...all that actually happened in the datascape I was in.
Willow: Datascape?
Luz: That's right. You were placed in the digital version of Twilight Town to hide from the Organization at the time.
Roxas: That's right. But, before that, I was wandering around aimlessly when I was with the Organization. Barely learned and knew anything around me. Only knowing what is taught to me, slay Heartless to collect hearts for Kingdom Hearts, completing missions given by Xemnas. And of all the members there, Axel and Xion were my best and only friends. But despite that, we were essentially forced to fight one another, all because I wanted to find the answers to who I really am and why Xion and I were connected to Sora. At first, I was scared of the thoughts that went through my mind. But, wanting to find the answers gave me the resolve and courage to pursue that quest. So, to do that, I left the Organization and fought Axel, Riku, and Sora.
Sora lamented at that moment.
Roxas: But it was thanks to meeting Sora that I found the answer I was looking for. He gave me that answer.
[flashback to Roxas and Sora meeting]
[Sora ran up to Roxas, who wore the Organization coat at the time.
Sora: C'mon, wait up. Who are you?
Roxas removed his hood to show his face and turned to Sora.
Sora: You're... Roxas. How can you be here? Am I dreaming?
Roxas, saying nothing, shook his head no.
Sora: C'mon, say something.
Roxas: This could've been the other way around.
Sora: Huh?
Roxas: But it really has to be you.
Sora: What do you mean?
Roxas: There are so many hearts that are connected to yours. You're me, so you can feel what I felt.
Sora sighs.
Sora: *shakes head* No. Roxas, you're you. We're not the same. I wanted to tell you that. That you deserve as much as I do to be your own person.
Roxas: *smiles* Sora, see? That's why it has to be you.
Roxas approached Sora and gently grabbed his wrists. Memories of Roxas began to flow into Sora, allowing him to see and gain knowledge of everything Roxas went through. As that was done, Sora looked up to see Roxas was gone. He then looked down in frustration and lamented.]
Roxas: Thanks to you, I learned what it truly means to be myself and have my own identity.
Luz and Willow looked back at Sora with a smile.
Sora: And I'm glad to have helped you, Roxas.
Roxas nodded at Willow, and Luz looked back.
Luz: That's a wonderful story.
Roxas: Yeah. *to Willow* If I had never developed the resolve and courage I needed, I wouldn't be where I am today.
Willow looks back at Sora with a smile.
Willow: Yeah, I know exactly what you mean.
Master Yen-Sid: Time and time again, Sora has impacted people around him positively.
Luz: Ain't that the truth.
Both Luz and Willow side hugged Sora.
Luz: That's why you sho wovabwe.
Willow: *giggles*
Sora: Girls, come on.
Roxas: Sora, you sly fox, you.
Sora sighs.
Sora: *chuckles sheepishly* I guess girls just can't keep themselves off me.
Luz/Willow: Yeah, we can't~.
The teens laughed as Roxas discreetly took a picture.
Master Yen-Sid: *thinking* Hmmm... Teenagers. *to Willow* In any case, Willow.
Willow: Yes, Master?
Master Yen-Sid: Knowing the life of a Keyblade wielder, I hope you are ready to take the first step in learning the ways.
Willow: Of course. Just like Luz and Amity, I'll have Sora to train me.
Sora: Don't worry. Luz and Amity's training is coming along nicely. In fact, Willow managed to learn Flowmotion.
Willow: It's true. Watch this.
Activating Flowmotion, Willow leaps into the air, spins backward twice, and lands on her feet in place.
Willow: Ta-da!
Sora, Luz, and Roxas applauded.
Roxas: Nice!
Master Yen-Sid: Very good.
Sora: Oh, before I forget, Master.
Master Yen-Sid: Hm?
Sora: The plans to rescue Kairi are coming along great. Pretty soon, we'll set out.
Roxas/Luz/Willow: Really?
Sora: Yeah. Just gotta tweak some details. Once that's done, I'll call everyone here for the briefing.
Luz: Sweet!
Willow: Can't wait.
Roxas: That's great. If only we were there with you.
Sora: Don't worry. We'll have her back soon enough.
Master Yen-Sid: Of that, I have no doubt. Now then, it is time we continue our duties on our end.
Roxas: I'll update everyone on your progress, Sora.
Sora: Great.
Master Yen-Sid: Until next time, Sora. Willow, I wish you luck in your training.
Willow: Thank you, Master. I'll do my best. Roxas, it was nice to meet and talk to you.
Luz: Ditto.
Roxas: *nods* Same here. Hope to talk to you all again sometime.
The call ends.
Sora: Willow, we'll start your training this weekend.
Luz: Ooh! This'll be great!
Willow: Can't wait.
Sora: Let's eat breakfast.
Luz/Willow: Yes!
[Cut to Master Yen-Sid's study in his tower]
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Magical Mystery- Extended]
Master Yen-Sid: Roxas. What do you make of Luz and Willow?
Roxas: They seem nice. It's great that Sora has made more friends. And found more teammates for us.
Master Yen-Sid: Indeed. The journey ahead of our new Keyblade wielders will not be easy. But, as long as they are trained and stay close to Sora, everything should be fine.
Roxas: Right. My journey's never been easy, either. None of ours have been, have they?
Master Yen-Sid: No. But, all the more reason for you all to get along when the time comes. Comradery and friendships are key to building a strongly fortified unit among yourselves.
Roxas: *nods* Yeah. Oh! Gotta message Axel, Xion, and the others about Sora's progress.
YESTERDAY...
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Missing You- Extended]
[Open on Gus sitting in the hallways of Hexside, his head buried in his arms]
Luz walks up to him.
Luz: Hey, Gus. You okay?
Gus: I—I messed up bad, Luz. Willow just needed help with this pixie problem, right? So I thought, oh, that I'll lure them away with an illusion. But then...
Luz: That angered the pixies, and they attacked Willow. I heard.
Gus: I moved up two grades. What's the point of being good at this if I can't do anything good with it?
Luz: It was an honest mistake. Besides, Willow's tough as nails. I'm sure you'll both be feeling better tomorrow.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Missing You- Extended]
PRESENT DAY...
[Cut to Gus lying on the floor in a room]
Gus groans.
We find Gus in his bedroom. His bedroom seems small. In it are small shelves of books, a Bad Witch Coven T-Shirt hung above his bed, a dresser, a desk, and a blue rug with the Illusion sigil emblazoned upon it. His crystal ball caws and beeps until it shows a prerecorded message from King.
King: [On recording] I'm not reading this.
Gus: [On the recording, offscreen] Come on, King. Please?
King: [On recording] Ugh, fine. *clears throat* Is that a six-footed pig or a floating appendage? Why, no! *Gus, wearing a cape, hops on the screen* It's Gus, the Illusion Master. Please leave a message.
The video turns to Willow, seemingly healed from her previous injuries.
Willow: [On recording] Hey, Gus.
Gus turns around with a look of unease until he sees Willow seemingly healed, perking him up.
Gus: Willow! You're ok!
Willow: [On recording] Thanks for sending me all those "Get well soon" illusions... but you can take them back now.
Gus: ?
Willow: As you can see, I'm all better, thanks to Sora.
Sora appears in the video next to Willow.
Sora: [On recording] Hey, Gus.
Gus: Ah...
Gus's smile falters, seeing Sora. Three tiny illusions of Gus then jump onto Willow's shoulders and head.
Illusion Gus #1: Willow! How are you feeling? Do you have a fever?
Illusion Gus #2: Willow, you want me to sing for you? Mi-mi-mi-mi-mi-mi-mi-mi...
Illusion Gus #3: Willow, is this helping?
Willow: [On recording] Seriously, can you please take them back?
Gus groans as the crystal ball shut off. Gus rolls onto his stomach and traces a spell circle, summoning his illusion to stand in front of him.
Illusion Gus #1: Where's Willow?
Illusion Gus #2: Why are we here?
Illusion Gus #3: Did we do bad?
Gus blows the illusions away. Then, someone knocks on a door.
[Cut to Gus opening the front door to find Luz]
Luz: *raises fists* Gustopher! *finger points* Gusteban! *leans on the doorframe* Augustabeth! Any of those working for you?
Gus: *unamused* You need my library card to visit Amity, don't you?
Luz: Actually, she and I are going to meet up later today elsewhere.
Gus: I see.
Luz: I was also hoping to see how you were doing and talk briefly. Come on!
Luz drags Gus away as he screams.
[Cut to Luz and Gus walking through the streets of Bonesborough]
Luz: I don't know if you found out yet, but Willow's all better now.
Gus: *looking down* I know...
Gus frowns.
Gus: *grumbling* Thanks to Sora.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories OST - Scent of Silence]
Luz became slightly put off as the two of them stopped walking.
Luz: What?
Gus: Oh—nothing.
Luz pauses.
Luz: Are you ok?
Gus: I—I've just been thinking. What if it's time for me to explore different kinds of magic?
Luz: I'm all for trying new things, but what's wrong with illusions?
Gus: Illusions are just so...you know—
?: Hey, guys!
The two turn to their left and see Sora running up to them with a smile and waving.
Luz: Hi, Sora!
Gus: Hm...hi.
Sora stops just in front of them.
Sora: Hiya. I just got back from Willow's. She's a-ok.
Luz: That's good.
Sora: Oh, and Gus. Willow says thanks again for the "Get well soon" illusions.
Gus: Hm. ...Glad to hear it.
A pause between them occurs as Sora notices Gus seemingly down.
Sora: You're not still feeling bad about what happened yesterday, are you? Cause Willow doesn't blame you and—
Gus: No, no. It's not that. Well, it is a little bit of that. But... *sigh* Look, as I was telling Luz, I think it's time for me to explore different kinds of magic.
Sora: Really? Well, it's cool you want to explore different styles of magic. But what's wrong with your illusion magic?
Luz: That's what I said.
Gus: Well...
[End Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories OST - Scent of Silence]
Gus, Luz, and Sora were startled when they heard a beastly roar. They looked down for the source.
[Cut to the street below]
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Scherzo Di Notte- Extended]
A Demon Hunter tries to subdue a Slitherbeast but fails when it knocks him away with its arm. The Slitherbeast growls, look forward, and sees Braxas, a baby class Student of Hexside, holding a balloon.
Braxas: Yay! Huh?
The Slitherbeast charges toward Braxas, scaring him.
Sora: Oh no! Luz!
Luz: Right!
Sora and Luz immediately summon their Keyblades, ready to save Braxas, only for two boys wearing uniforms from a different school to jump in front of him. First, the dark-skinned witch with dark brown hair conjures up a slick of abomination goo that causes the Slitherbeast to slip, then the orange-skinned demon boy with blue eyes and blonde hair creates a net of vines that launches it back. After it lands, a girl with purple hair and a peach complexion leaps over it and uses construction magic to trap the Slitherbeast in stone.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Scherzo Di Notte- Extended]
Girl: *gives off a thumbs up* Good work, guys!
Dark-skinned Witch: Yeah!
Braxas: *hugging the orange-skinned Demon* My heroes!
Orange-skinned Demon: Alright!
The citizens applaud the trio for their heroic act as Gus gasps in awe.
Sora: Sweet!
Both Sora and Luz de-summoned their Keyblades.
Sora: Looks like it all worked out.
Luz: Totally.
[Cut to Braxas and his Dad]
Braxas's Dad: *picks up Braxas* Son, are you ok?
Braxas: Yes, Daddy. Thank you, mysterious heroes!
The trio began walking away.
Girl: Stay safe out there!
Gus walks up to them with stars in his eyes.
[Play Kingdom Hearts 3 - Afternoon Streets - Extended]
Gus: Wow! Just wow! *points to Orange-skinned Demon* Plants. *points to dark-skinned boy* Abomination. *points to the purple-haired girl* Construction. You guys took down that Slitherbeast like it was nothing.
Girl: Nah, it wasn't that easy.
Daek-skinned Witch: Yeah, *playfully shaking her shoulder* it looked like you had a really hard time out there.
Gus: You're Glandus students, right? I go to Hexside. Name's Gus.
Girl: Nice to meet ya. *gestures to the demon boy* This is Angmar. *then the dark-skinned witch* Gavin.
Gavin: Hey!
Girl: And I'm—
?: Briaaaaaaaa!
Mattholomule, panting, ran towards the group.
Mattholomule: I would've helped, but like, there was this other baby in danger. You probably couldn't see.
Gus: Mattholomule?
Mattholomule: Augustus? Back off, twerp! This operation is Glandus kids only.
Bria: Hey, Matty, it's all cool. Did you get the map?
Mattholomule: Yes! And I only had to endure 35 noogies from my older brother.
Bria: Nice work!
Gus: Well, uh, I can see you guys are busy, so-
Bria: Wait. Have you ever heard of the Galdorstones?
Gavin: They're powerful relics. Many witches and demons have sought them.
Angmar: But they've all returned empty-handed, haunted by its Guardian. Until us!
Bria: We heard some coven scouts talking about them, but it'll be rough going. You said you are a Hexside student, right? We could use the extra strength.
Gus: That sounds awesome, but...I'm not sure if I—
Luz: Gus!
Luz and Sora jump down from above on cue, landing behind Gus.
All: Whoa!
Luz: *pants* Wow. Still need to get used to that Flowmotion technique.
Sora: You're getting the hang of it.
Luz: Anyway, Gus, you ran away so fast, but we didn't wanna interrupt, so... I think you should go.
Mattholomule: Well, he can't. Gus is just an illusionist. He'll only hold us back.
Sora: *rolls eyes* Oh, please. As if you're of any use to anyone.
Mattholomule: Why do you always rag on me?! Are you STILL mad about the detention thing?!
Sora: A week ago, you tried putting hot sauce into my drink.
The others looked at Mattholomew, who stammered a bit.
Mattholomule: W-wh-what? No. That doesn't sound like me.
Sora: Luckily, I noticed beforehand and switched our drinks at the last minute.
Luz: That does explain why he tried to eat ice cubes.
Mattholomule: *blushes in embarrassment* No idea what you're talking about! *turns to his group* They must have me mistaken for someone else.
Bria and her team aren't exactly buying Mattholomew's words.
Sora: And just now, you said you were trying to save another kid from another monster. Clearly, that is not true. Otherwise, we would've heard it.
Bria: *squinting* Seriously, Matt?
Mattholomule: Ummm...
Luz: And besides, whadda YOU know? Gus here is a regular super witch.
Sora: Yeah, he's pretty cool.
Gus blushes in embarrassment.
Gus: Guys!
Gus drags Luz and Sora to the side, away from Bira and her group.
Gus: *whispering* I see what you're doing, and it's really nice, but I don't actually know any spells besides illusions!
Luz: *silently* No problem. *hands him some glyph cards* *silently* Come on, man. You know I'm all about proving jerks wrong.
Sora: No sweat Gus, you've got this.
Gus looks at the two, mostly Sora, for a bit and appreciates the encouragement.
Gus: Alright. I'm in. Where do we find these Galdorstones?
Bria: Great! And—
Bria and her group notice Sora.
Bria: Oh, hey.
Sora: Hm?
Bria: You seem...familiar. Sorry, what's your name?
Sora: Oh, I'm Sora.
Bria and her group widened their eyes.
Bria: Wait, Sora? You're THAT Sora?!
Sora: Uh, yeah. You've heard of me?
Bria: Uh, yeah!
Mattholomule: *rolls eyes* Oh, great. Here we go.
Bria: Hexside's best student and star dancer at Grom, beside the queens.
Luz giggles to herself, happily remembering her dance with Amity.
Bria: Word of you spread all over Glandus!
Sora: Really?
Gavin: Not just Glandus, St. Epidurm has heard of you as well. I have a cousin who goes there.
Angmar: The word is you're Hexside's prodigy who has toppled over the other best students. You have many talents besides the practicals. There were your dancing skills from your Grom, as mentioned earlier, and—
Bria: AND It's been rumored that you are quite the looker. *looks at Sora's face* And it looks like the rumors are true~. *winks at Sora*
Sora: Ah. *slightly blushes with a chuckle* Aw, geez. I'm sure that's an exaggeration.
Bria: Mmmm... Nah.
Sora began to rub the back of his head, still blushing slightly.
Luz: *smirking at Sora* Sora. Popular. Not just at Hexside but all the schools in the Isles.
Gus: *shakes his head* *sarcastic* What's your secret, man?
Mattholomule: *folds his arms with a frown* Hmph. *thinking* Seriously, what makes him so special?!
Bria: Anyways, if you're skills are as good as the rumors say, would you join us as well?
Mattholomule/Gus: *thinking* WHAT?!
Sora: Oh, well...I
Gus: Sora!
Sora: Hm?
Gus: I'm sure you're busy with other stuff, right? Like *whispering to Sora* with the "important mission"?
Sora: Actually, I pretty much have the plans done for the time being.
Gus: You do?
Sora: Yup. Just gotta iron out the final details. But that can wait. *to Bria* I'd be glad to help out.
Bria: Great!
Gus: *to Sora* Are you sure?
Sora: Sure. Besides, this'll be an opportunity for us to hang out.
Luz: That's a great idea. Gus, you, and Sora could definitely use this.
Mattholomule: *thinking* Oh, come on! Bad enough with Augustus, but human boy'll make me look bad even more if HE tags along.
Bria: It's settled! Let's go, team!
Sora: See ya later, Luz. Have fun with Amity.
Luz: Thanks. *to Gus* Good luck, Gus.
Gus: ...Thanks.
Everyone began to depart to their own plans for the day.
[End Kingdom Hearts 3 - Afternoon Streets - Extended]
[Cut to outskirts of sorts leading to a massive forest]
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Keyblade Graveyard- Extended]
Bria: We're journeying to the Looking Glass Ruins in the Forearm Forest!
In front of the team, red trees are mostly seen as purplish trees that stretch far behind into the distance, with a mist in between. Towering bone spikes are seen paralleling each other in a lined-up manner. And the Titan's skull is in clear view behind a wall of clouds.
Mattholomule: *taunting* What's wrong, Augustus? Scared?
Gus looks annoyed at Mattholomule as n ghost suddenly appears in front of him.
Ghost: BOO!
Mattholomule shrieks as he falls on his rear. The team then hears Sora laughing as they turn to see him dismiss the ghost, which was revealed to be an illusion created by him.
Sora: *taunting* What's wrong, Mattholomule? Scared?
Mattholomule: Not cool!
Sora: Neither is messing with Gus.
Gus looks down, frustrated.
Bria, Angmar, and Gavin blankly looked at the two back to back.
Angmar: Wow. You two...really don't like each other.
Sora/Mattholomule: No.
Bria: Guys, come on. There's no shame in being scared. Who knows what awaits us out there? *looks to Gus* But we all got each other's back, right? *winks at Gus*
Gus: *blushes* Yeah, um—Yeah.
Sora notices this with a slight smirk.
Gus: Yeah, alright, let's go!
All but Mattholomule: Woo!
They all ran ahead.
Mattholomule: *sarcastically* Woo.
He follows unenthusiastically. Little did the group know, they were being followed by a black raven with pink bags under his eyes. It has a sharp, long yellow beak and yellow claws.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Keyblade Graveyard- Extended]
[Cut to the Bonesborough Library]
[Play Kingdom Hearts 3 - Afternoon Streets - Extended]
Luz is leaning against a wall near the entrance door.
Luz: *thinking* ok. It's our first hangout together. Alone. ...Wow. Hanging out ALONE together. Alone, alone, alone. *shakes her head* *thinking* Get it together! It's just gonna be a casual day today, nothing huge. We'll just walk around, do whatever comes to mind, and eat lunch.
Luz summons two lunch boxes out of thin air.
Luz: *thinking* Good thing Sora taught me how to unlock my inventory space, and good thing we had leftover pork buns and fried rice from yesterday.
Luz de-summons them.
Luz: *thinking* This'll be great. No doubt.
?/?: Hey, Luz.
Luz turns her head to see Edric and Emira.
Luz: Oh! Hey, Ed. Hey, Em. Here to see Amity?
Emira: Nah. Looks like you got that covered.
Edric: I'm looking for skincare tips. I have a date tonight.
Emira: Yeah, he needs all the help he can get after he accidentally texted a poem to their mom.
Edric: *widens eyes, turns to Emira* Please don't tell people that.
?: Are they bothering you again?
Luz, Edric, and Emira turn to see Amity walking down the stairs.
Luz: Oh! *steadily blushing* No, just waiting here to see you, and, uh, here you are. *chuckles*
Amity is also blushing, and neither of them can look at the other. Edric and Emira gasp, put two and two together, and share a smile.
Emira: Edric, your face, it's exploding with horrific pustules!
Edric: Oh, no. *genuinely worried* Wait. Is it really?
Emira: We have to fix it before your date, or you'll get dumped!
Edric: What? I will?
Emira: *annoyed* Come on, Ed.
Emira drags him inside the library. Luz looks at Amity.
Luz: So...um. Our first...date.
Amity: Um, yeah. Been looking forward to this since Grom.
Luz: Yeah, totally. Um, ready...to go?
Amity: Yeah! I mean...yes.
Luz giggles as the two walks off.
Amity: Sooo...what are we doing today?
Luz: Well, I was thinking we just walk around for a bit and participate in anything that catches our eyes. After that, we'll have lunch.
Amity: Great. We'll have a great time.
Luz: Of course.
[End Kingdom Hearts 3 - Afternoon Streets - Extended]
[Cut to a deep forest]
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -The Silent Forest- Extended]
Bria slashes through vines and bushes with a machete.
Bria: This will be a breeze once we get the Galdorstones.
Gus: What can the Galdorstones actually do?
Mattholomule: If you're holding one, any spell you cast gets a big power boost!
Sora became intrigued by that.
Angmar: I can grow an entire forest and make my own butterfly sanctuary!
Gavin: I can create the biggest Abomination ever! *bitterly* I bet Dad will pay attention to that.
Gus: Whoa.
Mattholomule: Sorry. Doesn't do squat for illusions. Can't enhance what's not actually there. *softly shoves Gus*
Gus: Pfft. I know that. *softly shoves Mattholomule*
Mattholomule shoved back again, and the two swatted each other's arms until Sora separated the two.
Sora: Stop it.
Bria: Hold up, guys. We've come to our first challenge.
Their path is blocked by thick thorned brambles.
Mattholomule: *shoves Gus again* Show us what you got, Augustus. What did the human call you? "A super witch"? *chuckles*
Gus, annoyed, rubs his arms to ease the feeling as Sora slaps Mattholomuleupside his head.
Mattholomule: Ah!
Sora: Knock it off.
Mattholomule rubs the back of his head.
Bria: *gasp* That's a great idea! *holds Gus's hand* Go on, Gus. I know you can do it.
Sora: You've got this, Gus.
Gus goes on ahead as Bria watches with a smile, and Mattholomulewatches a smirk. Gus stops just in front of the brambles.
Gus: *pulls a glyph card out from under his collar; groans* Which one is this? *draws spell circle* Here we...go!
Gus discreetly activates the glyph and pushes it through his spell circle, unleashing a massive ice spike. It pierced through the brambles, but it didn't clear the path.
Gus: Uhh...
Mattholomule: Ha! Good try, shrimp! But, not good enough!
Gus looks down, frustrated.
Bria: Hey, it wasn't a bad idea.
Sora shoves Mattholomule hard, causing him to lose his balance momentarily.
Mattholomule: Hey!
Sora: Out of the way, runt.
Bria: What are you...?
Sora walks up to Gus.
Gus: Ugh. Can't believe I messed that up.
Sora: Hey, don't listen to him. It really was a good try.
Gus: ...Yeah, sure.
Sora: Lemme handle this one, ok?
Gus: ...Go ahead.
Gus steps back a bit. Sora, with both hands, built up fire magic and launched it toward the ice spike and through the brambles, clearing a path for the team.
All but Gus and Mattholomew: Woo-hoo!
Bria: Alright, Sora! I knew it was a good idea to bring you!
Angmar: He's not Hexside's prodigy for nothing!
Gavin: This'll be MUCH easier with you around! Haha!
Sora: Happy to help.
Mattholomule scoffs to himself as he follows the rest. Sora begins to follow until he sees Gus standing there.
Sora: Gus? We're moving on ahead.
Gus didn't respond. Sora then walks towards him.
Sora: Gus, you ok?
Gus: *adverting Sora's eyes* I'm fine.
Sora: ...Hey, if there's something bothering you, we could talk about it if you want—
Gus: *raises his head to look at Sora* I said I'm fine!
Sora: ! ...Ok.
Sora slowly backed up a bit, allowing Gus to walk ahead.
Sora: *thinking* What's bothering you?
Sora then proceeded to follow Gus and the others.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -The Silent Forest- Extended]
[Cut to the Bonesborough market area]
[Play Kingdom Hearts 3 - Afternoon Streets - Extended]
We see Luz and Amity continuing their stroll.
Luz: Ok, that was pretty funny.
Amity: Normally, I wouldn't condone that. But, Boscha slipping on a banana peel and falling onto her butt in a puddle of water...yeah, pretty funny.
Luz: Good thing we didn't laugh out loud. Otherwise, she would hunt us down.
Amity: Oh, please. We could take her if she tried.
Luz: *snickers* Yeah.
Suddenly, they hear music coming from one of the stands. They turned to see it was Eda's stand.
Eda: In an unknown language from the Human Realm, this song compels humans to dance out of jubilation!
The music is played from portable dance pads of sorts, which are connected to a small display screen. The crowd listens in awe.
Customer #1: How oddly hypnotic.
Customer #2: I almost want to dance out of jubilation!
Customer #3: Me too!
Luz and Amity walk up to Eda.
Luz: Hey, Eda!
Eda turns to see Luz and Amity.
Eda: Oh, hiya, kids! How's your "date" going so far?
Luz and Amity blushed.
Luz: *giggles* It's...going fine.
Amity: Yes.
Eda: Heh, glad to hear it.
Luz: Anyways, what's going on here?
Eda: Oh, the usual. People love my products. Especially this music-playing thing! *points to the portable dance pad*
Eda: By the way, do you know what language this thing is singing?
Luz listens and realizes it is singing in Korean.
Luz: Oh, that's Korean. These kinds of songs play at arcades.
Eda/Amity: Ar...cades?
Luz: Yeah, basically, it's locations where kids and teens come together to play games together.
Amity: Oh, neat.
Luz: Yup.
Eda: Huh. Say, Luz.
Luz: Yeah?
Eda: I won't take up too much of your time, but you mind giving the people here a quick demonstration of your dancing skills?
Luz: Sure! Amity, wanna join?
Amity: Oh, definitely.
Luz: Alright, let's wow 'em!
[End Kingdom Hearts 3 - Afternoon Streets - Extended]
The two stepped up in front of the crowd.
[Play Glitch Techs - "Sock 'em Rock 'em]
(NOTE: I miss that show.)
Eda: Ladies and gentlemen! My two associates here will give you all a demonstration of their dancing prowess!
The crowd cheered as Luz and Amity readied themselves.
Eda: *sing-song tone* Threeee! Twoooo! Ooooneeee! GO!
Luz and Amity immediately began dancing. In perfect synchronization, the two stepped and matched the arrows with a criss-cross motion and diagonally with a couple of twirls and poses for flair. The two then stepped towards and pointed their fingers to the music's beat left and right in a mirrored fashion. The crowd and Eda continued to cheer as the two kept dancing. To add more flare, Luz and Amity added their own unique poses while still maintaining synchronization. For Amity, she struck three different poses resembling that of a ballerina. For Luz, she struck three different poses resembling that of a 1980s hip-hop (or pop) dancer. The crowd and Eda went wild as Luz and Amity finished with one last twirl and posed dynamically in a mirrored fashion.
[End Glitch Techs - "Sock 'em Rock 'em]
The crowd roared with applause as they immediately began the bidding to who was willing to give out the most snails for the dance pad.
Eda: Thanks a lot, you two! Business will be booming!
Luz: You're welcome! *to Amity* Ready to have some lunch?
Amity: Sure.
The two walked to find a nice quiet place to eat.
[Cut back to the forest]
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -The Silent Forest- Extended]
Mattholomule: According to the map, we should be getting close. *screams as a snake drags him by the ankles into a tree*
Gus: Don't worry, I've got this one!
Gus unknowingly uses a fire glyph card. The fire blast spooks the snake and lets Mattholomule drop. He screams and falls face-first on the ground.
Gus: Dang it, Augustus! Couldn't you have done something a little smarter than that?!
Gus: Argh!
Sora: Lay off! At least you're not eaten!
Gus was starting to become irritated until the snake suddenly appeared again, ready to pounce at the team. Mattholomew screams again in fear. But, before anyone else could do anything, Sora casts a blizzard spell, causing the snake to flee as fast as it could.
Bria: *phew* Nice job, Sora.
Sora: No problem.
Gavin and Angmar pick Mattholomule up by the arms and drag him off.
Gavin: Come on, dude.
Angmar: I'm not surprised he couldn't handle Glandus.
Sora: What did they mean by "couldn't handle Glandus"?
Bria: Things work differently at Glandus. Weak students are pushed around by the strong.
Sora: Seriously?
Bria: Yeah... But if I had a Galdorstone, I might be able to change things for the better.
Sora went silently for a bit, thinking about Bria's words. It was then he heard Angmar calling out to the team.
Angmar: Hey! Over here!
Bria gasped as she and the rest stopped in front of a stone gate. The doors have a happy face and sad face carved onto them, the archway is halfway broken, and the gate is stretched out with pillars and spiked fences.
Sora: So, this is the place?
Bria: Yes! This is it! Ok, Angmar, you're on lookout duty.
Angmar noticed a butterfly and proceeded to follow it.
Bria: Angmar~!
Angmar: Hmm?
Bria: I said you're on lookout duty. And if I catch you playing with any more bugs, I'll make you eat them~! Ok?
Angmar whimpers, which Sora notices with discomfort.
Bria: I believe in you~!
Sora: That's a little mean.
Bria: Oh, relax. I was just playing with him~.
Sora, unnoticed, frowns slightly at Bria.
[Cut into the inside of the ruins]
Filled with mist, the main area is surrounded by a complete circular arch. Statutes can also be seen, though they seem decrepit and covered by small vines. The team walks towards the center.
Mattholomule: I can't believe we found it.
Bria: Wow.
Gavin: This is nuts.
Bria then noticed a shine coming from the statue in front of her and climbed up to it and tore away the vines, and saw a shiny blue stone tucked into its hands. She gasps in awe and takes it, causing the hands to crack in the process.
Bria: Oh. Whoops. Well, we did it, everyone. The power of the Galdorstones is ours!
Bria activates the Galdorstone in her hand and feels magic energy amplifying all around her. She then spins around forward and slams her free hand onto the ground, creating a massive stone pillar reaching far above the forest.
Sora: *impressed* Wow!
Bria: *gasps, then squeals* I know, right?! I can't believe it! The legends were true! Woo-hoo!
Bria, Gavin, and Mattholomule began going around to collect more of the Galdorstones.
Sora: Those stones will really come in handy... Gotta get some.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -The Silent Forest- Extended]
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep Final Mix -Night Of The Dark Dream- Extended]
Sora began to collect some Galdorstones as Gus moved to explore a bit until he noticed some vines covering the bases of the statues, revealing the words "Mari the Phantom Bringer."
Gus: Huh... "The Phantom Bringer."
Curious, Gus moved on to the next statue and removed more vines.
Gus: *removes vines* "Aleth the Vision Creator"? *removes vines* "Khari the Mirage Maker." But these titles are for— *gasp* Oh no.
Sora then walked up to Gus, carrying some Galdorstones.
Sora: Hey, Gus. What are you doing? I've got some Galdorstones for you and the others—
Gus: Sora! We need to put them back!
Sora: Huh, what do you mean?
Gus: These aren't ruins. This is an illusionist graveyard.
Sora's eyes widened.
Sora: A graveyard?!
Gus: Yes. And by taking these stones, we are desecrating this place. We need to put them back and leave.
Sora: *nods* Right. Let's tell the others.
Gus and Sora ran toward the team.
Sora: Guys, stop! We can't take the stones!
Bria: Huh? What do you mean?
Gus: These aren't ruins! This is an illusionist graveyard!
Mattholomule: *drops the Galdorstone he's holding* Ew!
Bria: *giggles* Aw, guys. You're saying that as if it's a bad thing.
Sora's eyes widened.
Gus: What? Of course, it is! These stones were theirs. We shouldn't take them.
Bria: Even if these witches were alive, what would illusionists use Galdorstones for? High-def party tricks? Heh, Come on, guys.
Bria places a Galdorstone in Gus's hands.
Bria: Don't you wanna power up those cool spells of yours?
Gus stared at his reflection into the Galdorstone for a second until he frowned.
Gus: No. This isn't right. I won't let you steal these.
Bria: *frowns* I don't think you know what you're saying, Gus.
Sora: *frowns* Actually, he does. Grave robbing is seriously messed up.
Bria: *turns to Sora* You're going soft on us now?
Sora: It doesn't matter if they're gone or not. These Galdorstones belong to them. Not us. So, let's make this easy for everyone and leave.
Bria: I...don't think so. *glares* Who cares about some illusionist sculptures? These stones will make me and my team strong. So...like it or not, WE are taking these!
Sora and Gus widened their eyes as they saw darkness emitting from Bria.
Gus: *thinking* Wait...darkness? Why am I seeing...
Sora: Bria. Trust me when I say...you DON'T want to start something. Either leave quietly, *clenches fists* or we'll make you leave.
Mattholomule stepped back and out of the way in fear as Gavin walked up to Bria, ready to back her up. Before anything could happen, Angmar was heard screaming and running inside.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep Final Mix -Night Of The Dark Dream- Extended]
Angmar: It's real! The Guardian is real! And it's coming this way!
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Unforgettable- Extended]
Everyone runs as the heavy electrified mist begins to fill the main area, spiraling into a sphere shape above as glowing blue eyes break the surface and emit echoing roars. The mist and electricity disperse, revealing the supposed Guardian. The Guardian is seen as a large demonic sea-like creature. It's primarily colored blue and grey, with flames emitting from its fins and tail. Its long trident-shaped tongue shows while its face is obscured by shadow, it has muscular arms with black claws, and a white circular flame symbol is marked on its back, stretching to the neck. The team is hiding behind the statues.
Angmar: I heard it has the power to control weather.
Gavin: And summon ghosts.
Bria: *smirking* Well, I wonder if it can handle a little fire.
She shoves Gus into the open. He reaches for a glyph card inside his shirt and then pats himself down.
Gus: I'm all out of glyphs!
The Guardian swiftly approaches Gus and roars as it emits its flames and electricity, ready to attack.
Gus gasps as Sora jumps in, summoning his Keyblade.
Sora: Gus! Let's fight this thing!
Gus: Uhh...
Gus began stammering, frozen in place.
Gus: I...I can't...
Sora: Gus, snap out of it!
Sora enters his battle stance, ready to fight off the Guardian and defend Gus.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Unforgettable- Extended]
[Cut to Luz and Amity eating their lunches at a picnic table with much delight]
Fortunately for the two, Luz brought some silverware for them to use. That way, they don't get their hands dirty when eating their food. The two swallowed.
Luz: Man, this is good stuff!
Amity: Agreed!
The two then sipped their soda cans.
Amity: You know, I still find it hard to believe that a rat actually had the culinary talent to cook on his own and be able to teach Sora.
Luz: I like to think Little Chef is like King and all other walking talking animals. You know, magical.
Amity: That would make sense.
Luz: By the way, how are you doing with your inventory space and Flowmotion?
Amity: Pretty good. At least, the inventory space I'm getting the hang of. But, Flowmotion? That one's hard.
Luz: I know. Earlier today, I was with Sora and Gus, and we saw a Slitherbeast about to attack that Braxas kid.
Amity: Oh, my Titan! Please tell me he was ok and you guys saved him!
Luz: No worries, he's fine. But we didn't save him. It was a couple of kids from Glandus that did the saving.
Amity: Glandus? Huh... Wait. What were Glandus kids doing nearby?
Luz: Oh, they were going on some treasure hunt and invited Gus and Sora.
Amity: Huh...
Luz: What's up?
Amity: Sora, I can understand. He's always kind-hearted. But why would Gus want to tag along and help out kids from Glandus? Our schools are rivals, after all.
Luz: That, I kinda don't know. Earlier, Gus seemed down about what happened at school with Willow.
Amity: Oh, the pixie attack. I heard. I called Willow earlier to see how she was doing and found out she was all better, thanks to Sora.
Luz: Yeah...that might be the reason why?
Amity: What do you mean?
Luz: I noticed...Gus seemed irritated every time Sora was mentioned and even more when he came by and joined the Glandus kids.
Amity: If that's the case, why?
Luz: Ever since the pixie attack, he mentioned wanting to explore different types of magic. I kinda think he's either lost his confidence in himself and in his illusions or possibly jealous of Sora...or both.
Amity: Oh, I think I'm getting it now. If that's the case, I can understand that.
Luz didn't need a reminder of what Amity meant by that. They both know how Amity felt down when she lost to Sora at Hexside and at the Covention. She felt like she had lost her confidence and was a little bit envious of Sora's strength at first. But that envy turned to admiration. And if it wasn't for that, Amity wouldn't be where she's at today.
Luz: Me too.
Amity: Really? How?
Luz: Remember the time when we were at The Knee? When were we training for our exams?
Amity: Oh, yeah?
Luz: Well...during my training, I felt frustrated with Eda's "methods" at the time. And I remembered all the cool things Sora had done prior to that day, how HE was trained with using magic, and how...good he was. And we both know how good and strong he REALLY is.
Amity: Enough to save us and the universe three times over.
Luz: Yeah... At the time, we talked and... I mentioned how I was jealous of him as well.
Amity: Oh.
Luz: Of course, we worked it out. But sometimes, I think... Will we ever be that strong? Strong as him?
Amity: Well... We can try. That's why he's training us. So we can be strong. And remember what he told me?
Luz: Hm.
Amity: Everyone's skills and levels are different. But if we make an effort, we can be strong in our own right. I believe we can do it.
Luz: ...Yeah. You're right.
Amity nods.
Luz: Actually...
Amity: Hm?
Luz: After lunch, how about a quick spar?
Amity: Ooh. Alright, you're on.
The two smirked with confidence.
[Cut to the Illusion Graveyard]
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Unforgettable- Extended]
The guardian roars, ready to attack.
Gus: *being knocked over* Whoa—!
The Guardian roars again.
Sora: Gus, stay behind. I've got this.
Gus: No! I'VE got this!
Gus runs past Sora.
Sora: Gus? What are you—
Gus: Let ME handle this! It may just be an illusion, but maybe I can scare him away.
Gus tries to create an illusion construct of the Guardian, but it immediately glitches out and disappears. The Guardian looms over Gus and Sora, ready to attack. Gus yells out in frustration.
Gus: Oh, come on! What's wrong with me today?!
Gus clenches his head, shaking it with his eyes closed.
Sora: Gus, don't sweat it. Just let me—
Gus opens and widens his eyes, pupils dilated and angrily turns to Sora.
Gus: SHUT UP, SORA!
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Unforgettable- Extended]
Sora's eyes widened in absolute shock. As well as Bria, Gavin, and Angmar. Mattholomule was especially shocked as he had never seen Gus like this before. Even the Guardian has stopped in its tracks.
Gus: I need to focus! I can handle this on my own! AND I DON'T WANT OR NEED YOU TO HELP ME OR MAKE ME FEEL BAD!
Dreaded silence filled the atmosphere. Sora was still in shock, confused and concerned as to why Gus was reacting like this. Gus just realized what he did as he was taking breaths, trying to relax.
Sora: Gus...
Gus: Listen, Sora...I—
Before any more words were exchanged, the Guardian roars again. Both Sora and Gus turn around to see it poof. From the smoke, an elderly man who was only bald on top appeared. The elderly man had a white beard and mustache and wore a long-sleeved coat with a large pop-up collar. On top of the coat, he has shoulder pads with a broken mirror at the center. He appears to wear a dirty robe underneath and has dark red pointy boots.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Innocent Times- Extended]
Elderly Man: Oh-ho! I am the Keeper of the Looking Glass Graveyard, and it has been a very long time since I've had a visitor! And to think it'd be another illusionist! Hehehehehe! Though I don't remember them being so small.
Both Sora and Gus gave him an annoyed look.
Keeper: Don't give me that face. An illusionist has always kept watch over the Galdorstones. We gain no powers from them, so we're the least likely to use them for evil. Probably.
Sora: Uhhh...
Gus: Well, we gotta get out of here. Now.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Innocent Times- Extended]
Suddenly, The Keeper, Gus, and Sora became immediately subdued by Gavin's and Angmar's magic, being trapped in thorned vines.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories OST - Thirteenth Discretion]
Bria: So, the big bad Guardian is just another useless illusionist. Hehehe, today just keeps getting better!
Bria smirks at the three as Gus and Sora glare back.
[End Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories OST - Thirteenth Discretion]
[Play Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories OST - Scent of Silence]
Bria: Welp. Now that these three are out of the way. Time to collect more Galdorstones~!
Jumps off the statue and turns to Sora.
Bria: Such a shame, Sora. Everyone thought of you as some prodigy. But I guess you're just not all that. *giggles*
Sora didn't say anything, simply glaring at Bria instead, which Gus noticed in disbelief.
Bria: Alright, boys! Time to collect!
Bria and the others ran off to the other statues as she climbed up one.
Bria: *getting some Galdorstones* Got it! Whoops.
Some of the stones fall off.
Angmar/Gavin: Oh!
Angmar and Gavin proceeded to pick up the fallen ones.
Mattholomule: *picking up a Galderstone* Huh.
Angmar takes the stone from Mattholomule.
Mattholomule: Hey!
Bria: You're playing by Glandus rules, Matty. You can have anything you want if you're strong enough to take it.
Bria, Gavin, and Angmar laugh as Mattholomule groans.
[Cut to Gus, the Keeper, and Sora, still trapped]
Gus is trying to struggle to break free but to no avail.
Keeper: It's no use, lad. These vines are simply too strong for our bodies. There must be another way.
Gus: Argh. Come on. *gasp* Sora!
Sora didn't respond as he kept his head lowered.
Gus: Sora, come on! Use your magic to get us out of here!
Sora remained silent.
Keeper: Uh, lad? I think your friend might be out cold.
Gus: No, he can't be. Sora! Come on! You can hear me, right? Say something.
[End Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories OST - Scent of Silence]
Sora continued to be silent as he directed his pupils toward the sound of Gus, then looked in the direction in front of him.
Gus: Sora...?
Sora: Why?
Gus: What?
Sora: ...Why are you asking me for help?
Gus: What do you mean— *gasp*
It was then Gus remembered what he had said to Sora earlier.
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Missing You- Extended]
[flashback]
[Gus: SHUT UP, SORA!
Sora's eyes widened in absolute shock.
Gus: I need to focus! I can handle this on my own! AND I DON'T WANT OR NEED YOU TO HELP ME OR MAKE ME FEEL BAD!]
Gus showed a horrified expression, then a regretful one.
Gus: Oh no... Sora, listen. What I said to you earlier, I—I didn't mean it, I swear. I wasn't mad at you at all. I was...mad at myself.
Sora: ...
Gus: Ever since what happened yesterday with Willow. I've been feeling so bad. I just wanted to help her...not have her get hurt. After the incident, I thought I could make her feel better by sending her those get-well illusions. But then, I saw that she was healed by you. And that made me feel worse. Not because you helped her, but because I couldn't. Willow was my very first real friend, and I made a huge mistake just because I wanted to help her, like how she would always help me when we first became friends. And as the day went on, I kept trying to be helpful and failed over and over again. Meanwhile, I see you successfully helping everyone around, and you never made a mistake...and...it made me think that you're so much better than me, even at illusions. But, instead of talking this out, I bottled it up and took my self-anger at you, and it wasn't fair to you. I'm sorry, Sora. I'm so sorry.
Sora remained silent. Meanwhile, Mattholomule was actually listening to what Gus said and approached him.
Mattholomule: *to Gus* Hey. I—I didn't know she was gonna do this.
Bria: Matty, we need you to hold our stuff~!
Mattholomule: This is exactly how it was at Glandus. Always Bria's stooge.
Gus: Better a stooge than a clown. Bria was right. Illusions are nothing but high-def party tricks.
Mattholomule: Yeah, I used to think that too.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Missing You- Extended]
[Play Kingdom Hearts 1.5 HD ReMix -Treasured Memories- Extended]
He traces a spell circle and makes a saw of rock to cut the vines trapping Gus, Sora, and the Keeper.
Mattholomule: But then I met some dork and hot shot who used their powers to save me from a man-eating detention pit. All I'm saying is, if a dumb illusion can save a jerk like me, maybe it's not as useless as you think.
Gus paused for a bit until Sora spoke.
Sora: He's right, you know...
They all turned to Sora.
Sora: With your illusions, you've helped out people too. But there is one thing you're wrong about, Gus. I've made plenty of mistakes of my own. Like, back at the detention pit, I made the mistake of wanting to leave Mattholomule behind and only wanting to save ourselves. But you helped me to remember what was more important at that moment, letting go of petty grudges.
Mattholomule: You were seriously gonna leave me—eh, you know what? I had that coming.
Sora: And another thing, Gus. Who was it that helped me by training and perfecting my illusion magic when I first learned it?
Gus: M-me.
Sora: Who's illusion magic helped out during the..."incident" a while back?
Gus: Me.
Sora: Who was it that tutored me most of the time when I had trouble with certain written exams and tests at school?
Gus: Me.
Sora: Who moved up two grades with intelligence and skills alone?
Gus: Me.
Sora: That's right. You. You did all that. Out of all of us, you were the smartest. You knew things that I didn't. And a lot of those things... I learned from you. Sure, what happened yesterday wasn't good. But you can still learn from those mistakes and turn those experiences into power. And you're still the best illusionist I know. You just gotta have more confidence in yourself.
Gus took a moment to think about Sora's words.
Gus: *thinking* Confidence...
Keeper: Well, lad. It seems you are quite the exceptional young man if your friends here are giving you such praise.
The three were slightly taken aback by that. Sure, Gus and Sora are friends, possibly from Gus's point of view. But Mattholomule isn't. That caused him to look at Sora and Gus for a bit before looking down and away.
Gus: Friends... *looks up at Sora* Are we?
Sora: What do you mean by that?
Gus: Well, what I said earlier...I—
Sora: Gus, I get it. Your mind was just in a troubled state. Sure, you, snapping like that was...unsettling. But I know you didn't mean it.
Gus: So...we're still friends?
Sora: Of course.
The two bro-clasped hands and simultaneously nodded at one another. Immediately after, however, Sora brought Gus in for a hold and playfully noogied him.
Sora: But next time, you need to say something to me! No need to angst it up! *laughs*
Gus: Ahhhh! No fair! Lemme go! *laughs*
Mattholomule paused at the two, then softly smiled. Sora lets go, and Gus turns to Mattholomule.
Gus: Oh. And thanks to you, too, Mattholomule. It's time to teach those jerks a lesson!
Sora: Yeah!
Keeper: I agree. *sinisterly* I'll call the hounds.
[End Kingdom Hearts 1.5 HD ReMix -Treasured Memories- Extended]
Mattholomule: *slightly unsettled* Whoa.
Gus: With all due respect, sir, I'd like to try something a little more...creative.
Sora: Wait a minute, Gus.
Gus: Hm?
Sora: I think I know what you plan on doing, and I have a small suggestion if you're up for it.
Gus: Oh? Let's hear it.
Mattholomule: Hold on, what exactly are you planning?
Keeper: I'd like to know as well.
Sora leans in and whispers his idea.
Mattholomule: Dude!
Keeper: Oh my.
Gus: Sora...that's so devilish.
Everyone paused for a bit and then grew sinister grins as they turned in the direction of Bria and her team.
Gus: I love it. *cracks knuckles*
[Cut to Bria and Gavin playing catch with a Galdorstone]
Angmar suddenly flew in.
Angmar: Intercepted!
A statue crumbles due to Angmar throwing himself straight at it. Bria, Gavin, and Angmar continue laughing. Angmar then notices a pink butterfly-looking creature.
Angmar: Huh?
Bria: Heh. Maybe we can sell the small ones to the Emperor's Coven and keep the rest for ourselves! Angmar, start collecting!
Angmar didn't respond.
Bria: ...Angmar?
Bria and Gavin see Angmar following the butterfly.
Bria: Hey! Get back here!
Butterfly: Eehehehe, *winks left eye* wink.
The butterfly continues giggling as it flies off into the fog. Angmar follows it into the fog.
Angmar: Wait—come back! What species are you?
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep Final Mix -Night Of The Dark Dream- Extended]
Bria: Ugh, whatever. I never really liked him anyway. Looks like you're my second in command, Gav—
Gavin: D-Dad?
A clone of Gavin with a big mustache appears from the fog.
"Gavin's Dad": Gavin, I just want you to know that I'm proud of you. Now, how about we go get some ice cream, son?
Gavin: Huh! That sounds great, Pops! Wait, when did you grow a mustache?
"Gavin's Dad": Hey! Don't blow this chance.
Gavin and his "dad" walk off into the fog together.
Bria then realizes what's happening.
Bria: Come out, illusionist! I'm not dumb enough to fall for these tricks.
Everything around her suddenly turns black, and shadowy figures in the shape of Gus and Sora run across.
Bria traces a spell circle.
Bria: Rghhaah!
Bria makes a pillar from the ground, breaking the illusion.
Bria: That's right. Who's strong now!? I never needed those losers anyway. *picks up the bag of Galdorstones* Oof—More for me.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep Final Mix -Night Of The Dark Dream- Extended]
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMIX -Guardando Nel Buio- Extended [Redux]]
Mist fills the area as the graveyard's statues turn to face her. Their eyes and mouths began to bleed as three shadowy figures approached her.
Bria: Haha, cute.
Bria draws a spell circle, which does nothing.
Bria: Huh? *tries again* Why isn't my magic working?!
She yelps as her hands seem to turn to stone and break off. The three shadowy figures kept getting closer and closer as she backed away.
Bria: *panicking* What's going on? No, no. This is all just an illusion. Haha, it can't actually hurt me. It can't even touch me!
One of the shadowy figures disappeared in front of Bria and appeared right behind and used its arms to lock her arms, putting her into the hold. She yelped in fear as she turned around to see the shadowy figure up close. Completely black with glowing yellow eyes and emitting a red aura. The other two resemble the same way. She shrieked and struggled to break free, but to no avail. The shadowy figures spoke in a demonic tone.
Shadowy Figure #1: For your treachery, you will pay...
Shadowy Figure #2: With your life!
Bria: No! NO! PLEASE DON'T KILL ME, PLEASE!
Shadowy Figure #3: If you truly value your life, then leave this place. AND NEVER RETURN!
Bria: ok! Ok! I PROMISE!
The shadowy figure who had her in a hold released her go as she immediately bolted to the gates, fleeing and screaming.
Bria: Aah! Cursed! This place is cursed!
The illusion that was set over the entire graveyard ends, revealing a slightly tired-looking Gus.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMIX -Guardando Nel Buio- Extended [Redux]]
Gus: Man, that took a lot of concentration.
Sora: You did great, Gus. Those punks will never come back here, for sure.
Mattholomule: The look on her face. It looked like she was about to pass out, ha.
The illusions disappear, revealing several rock pillars Bria had conjured. Then the Keeper comes out of hiding.
Keeper: Laying an illusion over the whole graveyard to make it seem like the stones weren't working very cleverly. Keep honing your powers of observation, child, and there's no limit to what you'll be able to do.
Gus: There are some limits. I wish I could repair all the damage they did.
Mattholomule: Um...maybe I can help?
Sora: Me too.
A bird chirps, standing on a statue. They've been completely repaired as if they were recently sculpted.
Sora: Not too shabby.
Mattholomule: Mmhm.
Keeper: Thank you for defending the Looking Glass Graveyard, witchlings. Perhaps it's time I hid this place for good.
Gus: But—there's so much history here!
Mattholomule: What if we came over on the weekend to help build your defenses?
Sora: That way, you can fend off more "treasure hunters."
Keeper: I would like that very much. You three are welcome to come whenever you please.
The Keeper makes finger guns and leaves as Gus, Sora, and Mattholomule wave bye.
Mattholomule: He is definitely a ghost.
Sora: More like a kook.
Gus: Welp. Guess that's that. Time to go.
The three began to leave for home. Until they stopped and heard screaming from the Keeper. They turned around to see him being thrown in their direction, landing on his back.
Gus/Sora/Mattholomule: Keeper!
The three ran towards him and knelt.
Gus: Are you alright?!
Mattholomule: What happened?!
Keeper: I was suddenly attacked by a giant plump cat in a funny suit.
?: Hey! I heard that!
Gus and Sora immediately recognized the voice.
[Play Villains of a Sort - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMIX OST Extended | Yoko Shimomura]
Gus: Him again?!
Sora: Yup. Him.
Mattholomule: "Him"? Who's "him"?!
The cat, Pete, jumped out of the bushes.
Pete: *laughs* It is I, the mighty Pete!
Gus: *unimpressed* Mighty lame is what you are.
Sora: *nods* Uh-huh.
Mattholomule: Uhhh... You know this guy?
Sora: Yeah, his name's Pete. Just a chump-level "villain." *turns to Pete* What do you want this time, Pete?
Pete: I'm here for those Galdorstones!
[End Villains of a Sort - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMIX OST Extended | Yoko Shimomura]
[Cut to Luz and Amity walking towards Blight Manor]
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Kairi- Extended]
Luz: Wow. That was a fun day.
Amity: *giggles* Yeah. I'd say we've gotten sharper with our fighting skills.
Luz: Oh, definitely. And I had a great time today. Hope you did too.
Amity scoffs.
Amity: Seriously? Of course, I had a great time. And...
Amity instinctively places her hand next to Luz's.
Amity: I hope we get to do this again soon.
Both Luz and Amity noticed their hands, and the two blushed.
Amity: Oh, sorry.
Luz: No, it's ok. I don't mind.
Amity: R-really?
Luz: Yeah.
Luz smiles sweetly while maintaining her slight blush. Amity does the same as the two slowly hold hands.
Amity: Oh, great. Hmm.
Luz: What?
Amity: I just remembered something about Sora.
Luz: What's that?
Amity: The day of Grom. When I was...you know...afraid to ask you out, it was Sora who helped out with that. When we linked our hearts.
Luz: Oh, yeah. I felt so happy when you did. You...were the very first person who ACTUALLY asked me out to a dance, asked me out in general. And it was all thanks to Sora that...
Amity: We could be like this...
The two tightly, yet gently, held hands.
Luz: Yeah. Although...
Amity: Hm?
Luz: I wonder...If, for some cosmic reason, Sora never came here, and it was just me...I feel like...maybe...we could still be like this.
Amity stares in awe for a second.
Amity: You know what? Yeah. I think so too.
The two smiled sweetly at one another. They then reached up to the Blight Manor front door.
Amity: Well, this is my stop.
Luz: Yup.
The two stood there, chuckling a bit. And blushed a bit after staring into each other's eyes as if they saw sparkles within them.
Luz: So, see you later?
Amity: Yes. See you later.
The two, while still holding hands, slowly let go of one another as Luz parted for home, and Amity went to hers with smiles on their faces. As Amity enters the house, she sees Edric and Emira on the couch.
Edric/Emira: Hey, mittens. How was your day?
Amity: It was great.
Emira: Well, alright!
The twins embraced Amity.
Emira: So... Think you'll be seeing her more often?
Amity: I like to think so, yes.
Edric: Well then, good luck.
Emira: And keep at it!
Amity softly smiles.
Amity: Yeah.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Kairi- Extended]
[Cut back to the teens, the Keeper, and Pete]
[Play Villains of a Sort - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMIX OST Extended | Yoko Shimomura]
Sora: How do you know about the stones?
Pete: Hahaha! Well, let's just say... A little birdie told us.
It was then a raven flew down and landed on Pete's shoulder. The same raven that was following the teens, which Sora and Gus recognized.
Sora/Gus: Diablo!
Mattholomule: What?
Sora: Pet bird.
Mattholomule: Oh.
Pete: That's right! We've heard that you and those runts were after some treasure. We sent ol' Diablo here to follow you all over. And wouldn't you know, Diablo tells us that these stones give anyone a big boost of magic power!
It was then Diablo cawed in a taunting manner before flying away.
Sora: We can connect the dots from there. You and Maleficent want to use the stones to get stronger and hope to wipe me out, right?
Pete: That's right. But not just you. Your new friends as well, since they're in our way. And as you can see...
Pete pulls out a sack full of Galdorstones.
Pete: We got plenty here to be unstoppable! In fact, I'd say it's time to finish you all off here and now! Heartless squad, round up!
Pete takes a stone out and amplifies his magic, allowing him to summon much stronger Heartless than usual. Demon Heartless and Novashadows.
Mattholomule: Heartless? The monsters that have been going crazy all over?
Sora: You've seen them?
Mattholomule: No. But my brother has. He works for the Emperor's Coven. And he's told me that he and his squad have been fighting these things for a while. But he described them as little imps with small antennas on their heads.
Keeper: It is the stone's doing! He's gained more power because of it!
[End Villains of a Sort - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMIX OST Extended | Yoko Shimomura]
Pete: *laughs* Now, you're finished! Heartless attack!
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Vim And Vigor- Extended]
The Demon Heartless and the Novashadows rushed at the teens as Sora summoned his Keyblade, and Gus and Mattholomule readied themselves in a stance.
Sora: We gotta protect the Keeper!
Gus/Mattholomule: Right!
Sora: Mattholomule, are you up for this?
Mattholomule: I don't really have a choice!
Gus: Fight!
Sora and Mattholomule rushed over and began the battle with the Heartless. Sora sliced up two Novashadows as Mattholomule traced two spell circles to summons two earth spikes to pierce through the chests of the Demon Heartless. Gus conjures up illusion constructs of himself to fight off a Novashadow.
Gus: Come on! Get lost!
The illusions managed to trick the Novashadow into chasing them and running into a wall, causing it to get dizzy. Mattholomule then creates a spike to pierce the Novashadow.
Mattholomule: Augustus! See if you can corner them into the center! We'll try to finish them off faster!
Gus: Right!
It was then Gus thought up an idea, creating illusions of taller Novashadows to chase the Heartless into the center of the area. It seemed to have worked, seeing as the Heartless were slowly backing away.
Sora: Alright, Gus! Mattholomule, what made you come up with that idea?
Sora continued to slice up three other Heartless on his end.
Mattholomule: Remember, my brother works with the Emperor's Coven. He told me the Heartless seemed to act on instinct instead of intelligence. I figured that means they'll be easier to trick that way!
Sora, Gus, and even Pete were surprised to hear that. Thanks to that brother of his, Mattholomule basically knows full and well how the Heartless work and is using strategy to defeat them instead of just mowing them down with brute force. This angers Pete.
Pete: *silently* D'oh! The little brat thinks he's so smart. Those emperor coven chumps are a lot more trouble than we thought. Maleficent oughtta know about this.
Sora cast Fira, followed by Thundera to destroy four Demon Heartless, and Mattholomule kept creating spikes to pierce three Novashadows. Gus turns back to the Keeper.
Gus: Keeper, are you alright?
Keeper: Fine, my boy. And I see you're feeling better yourself. Fending them off.
Gus: Well, I can't take all the credit. Sora and Mattholomule are the ones who are really doing the work. As I said, illusions have limits.
Keeper: Maybe, compared to other magics. But they have limits themselves. Like your spiky-haired friend said: "you just gotta have more confidence in yourself."
Gus: ...
Keeper: And remember what I said? "Keep honing your powers of observation, and there's no limit to what you'll be able to do." Whether you're on your own or with your friends, there's still so much potential for you to unlock within yourself.
Gus thought about it for a second, then agreed.
Gus: Yeah, you're right. I'll keep working hard and—
Suddenly, a Novashadow pounces at Gus from the sidelines.
Keeper: Lad, look out!
[Pause Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Vim And Vigor- Extended]
Gus turns to the left and sees the Novashadow and widens his eyes in horror as it readies to attack with its right claw. Unfortunately, Gus couldn't react in time as the Heartless swung its hands down, knocking him down to the ground unconscious.
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Vim And Vigor- Extended]
Keeper: Oh no! *to Sora and Mattholomule* Boys! Your friend is hurt!
As they finished off the last of the Heartless on sight, both Sora and Mattholomule turned back to see Gus on the ground as the Novashadow was ready to slay and devour Gus's heart.
Sora/Mattholomule: GUS!
Thankfully, Mattholomule created a spike to pierce the Novashadow before it had the chance to start. The two ran towards Gus and knelt down on their knees to see if he was alright.
Sora: Gus!
Mattholomule: Gus! Wake up!
Sora: Say something!
Sora then used his Keyblade to cast Cura on Gus and the Keeper, healing them both.
Keeper: Ooh! I feel better. Thank you, lad.
Sora: No problem.
Mattholomule: But what about Gus?
Sora: Argh! He's still out cold. But his wound all healed up.
Mattholomule sighs in somewhat relief. At least Gus didn't die. The three then turn to see Pete marching forward.
Pete: Hey, now. Don't forget. I'm still here! And with this Galdorstone, I feel stronger by the minute. *clenches his free hand* Strong enough to finish you off myself! *laughs*
Sora, glaring at Pete, grits his teeth as he grips his Keyblade tightly.
Sora: Mattholomule, I'll fight Pete off. You watch over Gus and the Keeper and provide distance.
Mattholomule: Got it.
Sora stands on his feet, turns to Pete, and rushes forward with Flowmotion.
Sora: I won't let you take those Galdorstones! And I certainly won't let you hurt Gus and the others!
Pete: Bring it on!
Both Sora and Pete became locked in a struggle hold as they clashed. Thanks to the Galdorstone, Pete began to overwhelm Sora with strength and darkness. Sora, with all his strength, tried to push Pete back, but to no avail. Pete managed to grab Sora's head, lifted him above Pete's head, and slammed him into the ground.
Mattholomule: Human!
Mattholomule quickly traces a huge spell circle to create a stone fist to strike Pete in the gut, causing him to wince greatly and stumble backward. Sora, still on the ground, lifted up his Keyblade to cast Cure on himself, allowing him to get up on his feet.
Sora: Ow. Ok, that hurt.
Mattholomule: Human! Look! Over there! *points to the sack to Sora's left*
Sora sees the sack full of Galdorstones. Wasting no time, Sora went for it, grabbed the sack, took one Galdorstone out, and tossed the sack over to the others. Mattholomule created a stone bowl to successfully catch the sack just in time.
Keeper: The Galdorstones!
Sora: Safe and sound! Sorry, Keeper! But I'm gonna need to borrow one to use against Pete!
Keeper: That's alright, lad! Just show him who's boss!
Sora: You bet!
Sora concentrated his focus on the stone and felt his magic energy gain a tremendous boost of power. His magical aura flashed and became visible to the others.
Mattholomule: Wow... Those stones really DO pack a punch.
Keeper: Indeed. It's especially good if it's in the right hands.
Mattholomule: ...
Sora still felt the power around him.
Sora: Alright! Liking this!
Pete recovers and widens his eyes as he sees Sora with a Galdorstone.
Pete: D'OH!
Sora: *smirking* Hey, Pete! NOW, it's a fair fight! So, wanna keep going? Or run?
Pete: Grrrr! This ain't over!
Pete uses his Galdorstone to power boost his darkness.
Sora: Heh, round two, then!
Pete: Let's go!
The two rushed each other again, clashing Keyblade and fists.
Mattholomule: Ok! Looks like he can win this time!
Keeper: Indeed.
Mattholomule then turns to Gus.
Mattholomule: Gus! You gotta wake up! The Human's gonna win this one! Gus!
Keeper: Nothing we can do but wait, lad.
Mattholomule: Argh.
Gus still remains unconscious.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Vim And Vigor- Extended]
[Cut to a black void]
[Play Kingdom Hearts 3 - Dive Into The Heart -Destati- Third Inception - Extended]
Gus then opened up her eyes. He felt he was standing on top of something but couldn't determine what it was. Suddenly, a small light blue glow appeared and began to increase as the light dissolved, releasing birds into the air. Gus looked down to see that it was his Dive to the heart.
Gus: Woah! This is...my heart.
Upon closer inspection, the giant circular glass mural contains an image of Gus seemingly flying with his arms out to the left side edge while being placed next to six connected circles. The circles on edge contain images of the Illusionist Track sigil, and the wide image at the bottom shows a mirror with transparent human silhouettes. Within the six circles, Gus could see a man who looked like him in the center, Willow at the top, Sora at the top left, Luz at the bottom left, Amity at the bottom right, a woman who also looked similar to Gus, at the bottom, and Eda at the top right.
Gus smiles at the sight of those who he sees as her closest friends and family.
Gus: Aw. But why am I here?
He then remembers what happened earlier.
Gus: I remember! That Heartless knocked me out! I gotta get back out there!
It was then Gus heard a voice.
?: Yes. Time is of the essence.
Willow: Wh-who said that? Who are you?
?: So much to do, so little time... But don't be afraid. You will be able to help your friends. Now, step forward. Can you do it?
Gus does so, then stops as a light shines down from above. A large stone pedestal rises from the platform in a shower of light and magic. A red shield blinks into existence, floating above it.
?: Power sleeps within you...
Another pedestal rises from the platform, a blue staff floating above it. Gus turns around to face it.
?: If you give it form...
A third pedestal appears in front of Gus, who turns toward it. A metal sword appears in midair.
?: It will give you strength.
Gus stares ahead at all three.
Gus: Wow.
?: Choose well.
Gus: Ok...
Gus steps forward as he thinks.
?: The path of your power. Choose one to gain...and one to sacrifice. Simply choose...from what your heart knows what's true.
Gus: Hmm...
Gus looked around, analyzing each weapon. Finally, he notices the sword and shield. Something compelled him to choose those two weapons.
Gus: I choose to take the sword and sacrifice the shield.
?: Very well.
Suddenly, all three weapons disappear.
?: Your path is set.
The sword then appears in Gus's right hand.
?: You gained the power to fight.
Gus: *swinging the sword around* Cool. Just like...*gasp* Sora! And Luz, and Amity, and Willow too! Hey, mysterious voice! Are you the one who choose Keyblade wielders?! Am I chosen?!
?: Perhaps. If you are truly worthy, then we will see. As I was saying, with this power, you will use it to protect yourself and others.
Gus then noticed the Heartless suddenly appearing.
Gus: Heartless! And it's the imps this time!
Gus gets into a stance.
Gus: Alright, go time!
?: As you already know, there will be times you have to fight. So keep your light burning strong.
Gus: Right!
Wasting no time, Gus fights and finishes off the Heartless by performing diagonal slashes. Just as he finished, one crawls around to her back.
?: Behind you!
Gus swiftly turns around and pierces the final Heartless in the chest, destroying it.
Gus: *phew*
Immediately after, she sees a door near the platform edge.
Gus: Huh? What's that door?
?: Hold on. The door won't open just yet. First, tell me more about yourself.
Gus's eyes widened as he heard a familiar voice. He turned around to see it was Sora. Gus gasped and ran up to him.
Gus: *fast talking* Sora! I'm glad you're here! I'm being tested right now for my Keyblade, and I'm excited and—
Sora raised his hand to stop Gus from talking.
Sora?: I appreciate your enthusiasm, but I'm not the Sora you know.
Gus: What?
Sora?: I am a mere construct of the power beyond. The door that will lead you out cannot be opened until you discover your true self.
Gus was bewildered. The Sora that was in front of him was showing no emotion whatsoever. And his voice sounded rather monotone. However, Gus got over it quickly.
Gus: Oh, ok. ...Wait. What do you mean by that?
Sora?: There is a great power within you. And it, along with the door, cannot be unlocked until you discover who you truly are. Now, tell me, What's most important to you?
Gus paused and thought about it.
Gus: *thinking* Oh, a Q&A. I am Gus. But who exactly is Gus? What is most important to Gus?
Sora?: Think about everything you've experienced so far. Search your feelings and find the most important thing to you out of everything.
Gus paused again and went into deeper thought. It was then he thought about the pep talk Sora, Mattholomule, and the Keeper gave him about having confidence.
Willow: Having confidence in myself.
Sora?: Yes...
?: What do you want outta life?
Gus turns to his left and notices the Keeper. Or rather, a construct of him.
Gus: Oh, you're here too?
Keeper?: Yes. Now, If confidence is most important to you, what do you want outta life?
Gus: That's easy! To be helpful to everyone in any way I can.
Keeper?: Yes...
?: What are you so afraid of?
Gus turns to his left and sees a construct of Mattholomule.
Mattholomule?: If courage is what's most important...and to be helpful is what you want outta life... What are you so afraid of?
Gus: I'm afraid of being a liability. I don't want to be useless to the point where I hold myself and my friends back.
Mattholomule?: Yes. Now, it all comes together.
?: Confidence is most important to you. You want to be able to help those in need. You're afraid of being useless. That is who you truly are at heart, a helpful person. But in order to accomplish this, you mustn't let your insecurities hold you back. You need confidence in yourself. Your adventure begins here and now. Your road won't be easy, but as long as that feeling continues to ignite within you, your journey will be a pleasant one.
Gus nods with a determined look as the three constructs disappear. It was then he felt as if something appeared from behind him, which caused him to turn around.
?: The closer you get to the light, the greater your shadow becomes.
A shadowy silhouette of Gus appears in front of him and enters a battle stance.
?: But don't be afraid. And don't forget...
The shadowy silhouette pounces at Gus, but he destroys it with his sword. The sword then disappears, and a sphere of light-blue light appears in its place. Curious about it at first, Gus then noticed the door slowly opening, revealing nothing but white light.
?: You hold the mightiest weapon of all.
Gus clenched his right hand into a fist, where the light-blue light still remained, and ran towards the light.
?: So don't forget...
The white light engulfs Gus and everything.
?: Confidence...is your power.
[End Kingdom Hearts 3 - Dive Into The Heart -Destati- Third Inception - Extended]
[Cut back Gus on the ground of the Illusionist Graveyard]
Gus's eyes twitched a bit before opening them. He then gets up with slight grogginess, surprising Mattholomule, and the Keeper.
Keeper/Mattholomule: Lad!/Gus!
Gus: *rubbing his head* Ow. My head. Stupid Heartless.
Mattholomule: Gus, you're ok!
Gus: Yeah. I didn't see that attack coming.
Mattholomule: Well, not to worry. I took it out before it got you.
Gus: You...did? Wow, thanks.
Mattholomule: Yeah, yeah. Anyway, look. *points to Sora and Pete* Human used a Galdorstone to power himself up and beat up that Pete guy.
Gus: No way.
Keeper: Lad, how are you feeling?
Gus: I'm fine.
They then heard Sora yell as he was flown near the group, grunting in pain.
Gus: Sora! Are you ok?
Sora: I'm fine. I should be asking YOU that.
Gus: Don't worry, I'm fine. What happened?
Pete: *laughs* Did you really think I only took one Galdorstone for myself. *shows off two on hand* I actually have TWO! Giving me more power than you, Keyblader!
Sora: Grr.
Gus then realized what he had to do now. Now that he has the power to do it.
Gus: Keeper, think I can borrow a Galdorstone too?
Keeper/Sora/Mattholomule: What?
Gus: Sora, listen. I can help you fight this time.
Mattholomule: Are you sure? You just got knocked out cold.
Gus: Trust me, I can do this.
Keeper: Not that I don't believe in you, lad. But how exactly are you planning to help?
Gus: Like this...
[Play Hikari 光 (Simple and Clean) Orchestral Instrumental Version(0:22)]
Gus stands on his feet and then extends his right hand, and a bright light-blue light emits. The light was so bright it engulfed everyone for a few seconds. As the light subsided, everyone regained their sight and slowly gasped at the sight in front of them. Gus had summoned his own Keyblade. Upon closer look, The grip, collar, shaft, pin, and teeth are completely black. The cross guard is circular and colored completely light blue. The blade and teeth are curved shaped, resembling a question mark. The teeth are a light-blue sphere. And finally, the Keychain token is the shape of the Illusion Coven sigil.
Pete: Bwah?!
Sora/Pete: No way!
Gus: Yes, way! Say hello...to Gus: The Illusionist Keyblade wielder!
Sora: *fist pumped* Alright, Gus!
Mattholomule: Keyblade? Wait a sec...
Mattholomule had a flashback of Willow's duel against Boscha.
Mattholomule: You have a magic sword like Willow? *to Sora* And you have yours as well.
Where are you guys getting these things?
Pete: D'oh! That's what I wanna know!
Sora: Who cares? All that matters now is that we can take down Pete! Keeper, hand Gus a stone!
Keeper: Very well!
The Keeper tosses one at Gus, which he catches.
Gus: Thanks.
Sora: Ready, Gus?
Gus: You bet!
[End Hikari 光 (Simple and Clean) Orchestral Instrumental Version(0:52)]
Both readied in their stances as Mattholomule took a Galdorstone as well.
Keeper: Hey!
Mattholomule: Sorry. But I'm not about to let these guys have all the fun. *runs up to Sora and Gus* I want in on this too!
Pete: W-wh-what?!
Sora: Alright, then.
Gus: Let's do this!
[Play Kingdom Hearts 3 - Mákaukau? -Attraction Flow Version- Extended]
Sora, Gus, and Mattholomule activate the Galdorstones to further increase their magic powers. So much so that a huge burst of magical energy emitted from each of the three, leaving behind flaring auras. Gold, light blue, and orange.
Keeper: My word! These lads are using the stones to their utmost potential. This young generation is truly impressive.
Pete: D'oh! Wait a minute, now! Can't we talk about this?
Sora/Gus/Mattholomule: *smirking* ...No.
It was already over for Pete before he knew it. It only took three mighty blows from the teens to defeat Pete. Each, from their blades. Mattholomule even created an earth sword of his own just to get in the spirit of things.
[End Kingdom Hearts 3 - Mákaukau? -Attraction Flow Version- Extended]
Pete was ultimately knocked out, and Gus took the two Galdorstones from him and gave them back to the Keeper, as well as the stones the teens used to power themselves up.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Innocent Times- Extended]
Gus: Here you go, Keeper.
Keeper: Oh-ho-ho! I'm so thankful for all your help! All of you!
Sora: No problem.
Mattholomule: Glad to.
Pete then got up, which the others noticed immediately.
Pete: D'oh! Can't believe I lost to a new pipsqueak!
Gus: *smug* Believe it, Pete!
Sora: Now, I suggest you get lost, now.
Mattholomule: *smirks* Unless you want... *cracks knuckles* another thrashing.
Pete stomps in a tantrum.
Pete: You ain't seen the last of me, see?!
Pete turns around and runs way into a corridor of darkness.
Sora: And that takes care of that. This place is safe again.
Keeper: Again, thank you, lads.
The teens nod.
The Keeper walks away into most of the ruins.
Sora: Congrats, Gus. You're a Keyblade wielder.
Gus: Yeah, and the way I did it was by discovering the power I always had in me. The power of confidence. And it was thanks to you guys for helping me understand that.
Sora: Glad to be of help.
Mattholomule: Yeah, I guess. I still wanna know how and where you get those swords.
Sora and Gus widened their eyes. They just remembered that Mattholomule witnessed all of this, and he knows what the Heartless are and how they work. For the Heartless, it didn't really matter for the time being. But the Keyblades, the two had to come up with an excuse quickly.
Sora: Actually, he made it himself with his own magic.
Gus: Uh, yeah. I guess the Galdorstones gave me so much of a boost that I managed to create it. *de-summons his Keyblade*
Mattholomule: Huh. ...Guess that makes sense.
Sora and Gus internally sighed in relief. Mattholomule bought it.
Mattholomule: But, now I kinda want one of my own.
Sora: Oh! Well...
Gus: You could go to a blacksmith to make a magic sword of your own design.
Mattholomule: Huh, you're right. Guess I'll look into that.
Sora: Anyways, we should head home now.
The three began to leave.
Gus: Ok, can we just talk about how awesome we were?!
Sora: I know! That boost of power felt so incredible!
Mattholomule: It was a rush!
Gus: We worked together really well back there.
Sora: ...Huh, yeah.
Mattholomule: ...We did.
Gus: So, does that mean we're all like...friends now?
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Innocent Times- Extended]
Both Sora and Mattholomule paused and glanced at one another.
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Friends In My Heart- Extended]
Mattholomule: I...don't know.
Sora: Well...I don't see why not.
Gus/Mattholomule: Huh?
Sora: *folds hands behind his head* Well, having more friends is better than having more enemies. Sure, you started that mess with the Human Appreciation club, and I punched you in the face because of it, and we've been at each other since then. And just now, back there against Pete and the Heartless, as Gus said, we worked well together. And what you said to Gus earlier showed me that you aren't as bad as I thought.
Mattholomule: Yeah... And seeing how you are with Gus today, I can see you aren't as bad as I thought too. As for the Human Appreciation fiasco, I DID start that. Just cause I wanted to be important. And all that stuff I said before during all that, about having a cruddy life back at Glandus and not making any friends. All that was actually true, as you saw with Bria and her goons.
Sora: And yet, you used that as leverage against us.
Mattholomule: Yeah, it was a jerk move of me. I'm sorry. And, before you ask, yes... I... ACTUALLY mean it this time.
They all stop, with Sora and Mattholomule turning to face each other.
Sora: *nods* Yeah. I'm sorry for being too hard on you than I should've been. Mattholomule, how about we bury the hatchet and start over? ACTUALLY be friends this time. What do you say?
Sora extends his hand to Mattholomule, who pauses a bit, looking at it and Sora. He then turned to Gus, who shrugged with a smile. Sora kept his hand out and waited for what would happen next. Mattholomule thought about what Sora and Gus had talked about further and then made his decision.
Mattholomule: You know what?
He grasped Sora's hand, shaking it.
Mattholomule: I'd like that, Sora.
Sora: Great.
The two let go.
Mattholomule: Guess we're all friends now, Gus.
Gus: Cool.
Suddenly, Mattholomule's and Gus's stomachs growled.
Mattholomule: Aw, man. Hungry.
Gus: Me too.
Sora: Not to worry, guys. I've got us covered.
Gus/Mattholomule: You have food?!
Sora: Yup. I always carry lunch boxes with me whenever I head out on adventures like these.
Gus: *excited* Please, please, please tell me you still have those steamed pork buns?
Sora summons three lunch boxes, opening them to reveal freshly steamed pork buns.
Sora: Sure do.
Gus: Yes! I love that stuff! Thanks so much, Sora!
Gus grabs a box and starts eating with a fork that was included.
Mattholomule: Woah, never seen food like that before. *sniff* And it smells...really good.
Gus: *swallows food* Oh, yeah. You'll love these. Sora's a good cook. It's food from the Human Realm.
Mattholomule: Food from the Human Realm? And you made these?
Sora: Yup. Here, have a box. I also have cold water with me. *summons a water flask for each of them*
Mattholomule: Eh, what the heck.
Mattholomule grabs a fork and eats one steamed pork bun. After a bit of chewing, he swallowed. After a brief pause, he opened and widened his eyes with excitement.
Mattholomule: OH MY TITAN!
Mattholomule began eating more with gusto.
Mattholomule: THIS IS THE BEST THING I'VE EVER HAD! Thanks, Sora!
Sora: Thank you, and you're welcome.
The three continued to eat as they headed home. Eventually, they made it back to Bonesborough and went their separate ways. But not before Sora told Gus to come by to the Owl House tomorrow so they could give Master Yen-Sid the good news. To which Gus happily agreed.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Friends In My Heart- Extended]
