CHAPTER 19.5: The Owl Lady and The Mistress Of Evil
SATURDAY 6:00 AM
[Open to the Owl House living room]
We find Sora, Luz, Amity, Willow, and Gus hanging out in the living room. Both Sora and Gus have silly grins on their faces.
Luz: Guys! Come on! What's the big surprise?!
Willow: Yeah! Tell us!
Amity: Don't keep us in suspense.
Sora: Alright. *looks at Gus* Gus?
Gus: Of course. *turns to the girls* Ladies? BEHOLD!
Gus epically spins to his left, stops in place, poses by extending his right hand out, and summons his 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.
Sora: Presenting our newest Keyblade wielder!
The ladies were shocked and in awe.
Luz: *giddy* Ahhh! I can't believe you unlocked your Keyblade!
Willow: Congratulations, Gus!
Amity: It's so cool looking.
Gus: Haha! Thanks! *twirls his Keyblade* I can't wait to train with this bad boy. Not only will my illusions be stronger than ever, but I'll also be able to learn new spells. This is gonna be great!
Luz: So, tell us! How did Gus unlock his Keyblade?!
Sora: You wanna tell him?
Gus: Yup!
Gus turns to the ladies.
Gus: Luz, you remember those Glandus kids Sora, and I hung out with?
Luz: Yeah.
Willow: Wait. You hung out with Glandus kids?
Sora: Gus and I joined them for a small treasure hunt.
Gus: Yeah, but the whole thing was not great. Their "treasure hunt" turned out to be robbing an illusionist's graveyard. Sora and I couldn't go through with it, so Mattholomule and I scared them off. It was actually pretty cool. I put an illusion over the graveyard, and we became all scary. Like, REALLY scary.
Amity: Oh yeah? Prove it.
To answer Amity's question, Gus immediately cast an illusion spell on himself and Sora to turn into glowing red-eyed silhouettes and loomed over the girls with wide grins. Gus immediately dispelled the illusion then, leaving the girls with mortified expressions.
Willow/Amity: ...Uhhhhhhhhh...
Luz: Welp. I won't be sleeping well for a while.
Gus: *chuckles sheepishly* Sorry. Went a little overboard.
Amity: No, no. ...I asked for it.
Gus: But then, Pete showed up—
Luz/Willow/Amity: *deadpanned* Seriously?
Sora: Yeah.
Gus: He followed us to grab the Galdorstones.
Sora: The treasure that Glandus wanted to get. Why? Cause the stones can give anyone a huge boost of power.
Luz: I'm guessing Maleficent sent Pete to take the stones so they could use them.
Sora: Undoubtedly. This is why Mattholomule, Gus, and I went back to Illusionist Graveyard to help the Keeper fortify the defenses.
Gus: In case anyone shows up to rob him, he'll be ready.
Amity: That's great.
Luz: I bet working with Mattholomule was kinda...interesting, to say the least.
Gus: Actually...
Sora: It wasn't bad.
Luz: Really?
Sora: In fact, Mattholomule is our friend now.
Luz's eyes widened in shock.
Luz: For real?!
Amity: Can't say I'm surprised.
Sora grins with a chuckle.
Luz: I can't believe you and Mattholomule are friends now.
Amity: Well, you know how Sora is. He can make friends wherever he goes.
Luz: Heh, it'd be nice if he could tame Boscha.
Amity: Boscha? Sora...ACTUALLY, taming Boscha?
Willow rolled her eyes while making an irritated expression.
Willow: Tch, right. When pigs fly.
Sora: Well... I don't really give her much thought. But, if it came down to it, it'd be nice to at least nudge her in the right direction.
Willow: If that happens, I will refuse to believe that there legitimately isn't ANYTHING you can't do. Like, I would EXPECT you to pull miracles out of nowhere.
Sora: *sarcastic* Challenge accepted.
The teens laugh a bit.
Sora: But enough about her.
Luz: Right. Gus, I wanna know. How did you unlock your Keyblade exactly?
Both Gus and Sora looked at one another and paused.
Gus: Oh. Umm...
Sora: I can tell the story if you want.
Gus: No, no. I got this.
Sora: *nods* Hm.
Gus: Well...it all started when...the pixies showed up...
The girls winced, initially believing that Gus hadn't gotten over it yet.
Gus: Don't worry. It...doesn't bother me much right now. But...it had to do with me...and Sora.
Luz: What do you mean...
Willow and Amity were a bit anxious for Gus to continue.
Gus: You see... What happened was...
Gus told the girls everything that had happened since he and Sora joined the Glandus kids. His feelings about himself, towards Sora, about everything since the pixie incident.
Luz: ...Wow. I didn't think you'd summon your Keyblade like that.
The girls look at both Sora and Gus.
Gus: Oh...yeah.
Sora: Hey, it's all good. We worked it out.
Willow: Still, I can't help but feel like I'm partially to blame for Gus feeling down.
Gus: No, Willow. You did nothing wrong. It was all my fault for not properly handling myself sooner. And it was thanks to Sora and Mattholomule for helping me realize that.
Willow: *smiles* Well, I'm glad to hear you're both still friends.
Sora nods as he and Gus fist bump.
Sora: This...is just the coolest thing right now.
Sora takes out his Gummiphone.
Sora: Time to tell Master Yen-Sid the good news.
Luz: Oh yeah. Amity and I met Riku.
Willow: Luz and I met Roxas.
Gus: You guys actually met them?! What are they like? Are they as cool as Sora says?
Amity: Riku seemed nice.
Willow: And Roxas seemed like such a sweetheart.
Gus: Then I wonder who I'll get to meet.
Sora: Only one way to find out.
Sora proceeds to dial Master Yen-Sid, after a few seconds. Someone picked up. But it wasn't Master Yen-Sid. A man with spikey red hair and emerald green eyes and wearing an Organization XIII coat is seen instead.
[Play Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days OST - At Dusk, I Will Think Of You]
?: Yo, Sora!
Sora: Axel?
Luz/Amity/Willow/Gus: Axel?
Axel: The one and only. Good to see you, buddy.
Sora: Likewise. What brought you to the Master's Tower?
Axel: Oh. I just got back from a solo mission. Came to report in. *snickers* And Master went to see the clothing fairies.
Sora: Huh?
Axel quickly looks around, then turns to Sora.
Axel: *whispering* Don't tell him I told you, but Master Yen-Sid accidentally got his robe caught and ripped up to his knees. So, he went to them to fix it. *snickers*
Sora and the others widened their eyes in slight fear.
Sora: Uhhh, Axel?
Axel: It was hilarious. *chuckles*
Sora: AXEL?
Axel was confused by Sora's reaction.
Axel: What?
Sora pointed past him, causing Axel to widen his eyes and grow nervous.
Axel: ...He's right behind me, isn't he?
Sora and the others nodded.
[Cut to the Mysterious Tower]
Axel, shuddering, slowly turns around to see Master Yen-Sid looming over him with his arms folded and glaring.
Axel: *sweating* ...Oh, hi, Master. Back so soon...?
Master Yen-Sid: *glaring* Hmmm...
Axel: *chuckles nervously* I'll just..get out of your way.
Axel immediately runs over to the sidelines. Master Yen-Sid then sits down in his chair and sees Sora on his Gummiphone.
Master Yen-Sid: Hello, Sora.
[Cut back to Sora and the others]
Sora: Hey, Master. I've got some news.
Master Yen-Sid: Allow me to take a guess. Gus unlocked his Keyblade.
Sora: Ah—
Gus jumps into the scene.
Gus: Ye-yeah! Say hello to Keyblade's chosen number four!
Axel jumps back into the scene.
Axel: Hold on! Number four!?
Sora: That's right!
Sora moves out of the way to present Luz and the witches.
Sora: One, two, three, four. Four new Keyblade wielders among us.
Axel: Woah.
It was then Axel noticed Luz and Willow.
Axel: Oh, hey! It's you two! Luz and Willow, right?
Luz/Willow: Yup. And you're Axel. And yes...
Luz and Willow raised their left arms and pointed to their heads.
Luz/Willow: we got it memorized.
Axel chuckles.
Axel: *nods* Good. Quick learners. So, word on the street is you two are Sora's groupies.
Sora/Luz/Willow/Amity: *eyes widened* What?
Gus: What?
Axel: Roxas sent me a picture of you two clinging to his arms.
Axel sent Sora the picture to his Gummiphone, which everyone saw.
Sora: Gah! Roxas!
Axel: *chuckles* Sora, you sly fox, you. What's your secret?
Sora: No secret! Not at—
Then Sora and Luz paled as they felt themselves being pierced by Amity's ghastly cracked smile.
Amity: Oh, I see how it is, casanova.
Gus: *smug* Heartbreaker.
Sora and Luz shuddered a bit before turning to Amity, sheepishly trying to calm her down.
Sora: It's not what you think!
Luz: Willow and I were just joking around! We swear!
Amity/Gus: Relax. We know.
[End Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days OST - At Dusk, I Will Think Of You]
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Magical Mystery- Extended]
Master Yen-Sid: If we may continue, Gus, how did you come to unlock your Keyblade?
Gus: Oh. That.
Master Yen-Sid: Hm?
Axel: Come on, do tell.
Gus: You see...
Gus relayed everything that happened to him and Sora back to the Illusionist Graveyard.
Axel: Woah.
Master Yen-Sid: Agreed. It is unpleasant to hear friends at such odds.
Sora: But it's ok.
Gus: We're still friends.
The two fist-bumped.
Master Yen-Sid: *nods with a soft smile* Hm.
Axel: And you've made a friend out of another enemy. Seems like you're performing to your usual standards.
Sora chuckles.
Axel: And, by the way, Gus.
Gus: Hm?
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Magical Mystery- Extended]
[Play KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days [Xion's Theme] Kingdom Hearts HD I.5 ReMIX]
Axel: Sora was definitely right about you needing confidence in yourself. You shouldn't be afraid of messing up cause everyone does that now and again. Just gotta learn from them and get better. Trust me, I know the feeling.
Gus: How so?
Axel: I'm sure you've seen Sora's memories, which also include Roxas's. Long ago, I was always confident, energetic, and, dare I say, quite charming~.
Sora groaned. Gus was intrigued, and the girls shook their heads with smirks. It was then that Axel's smile faltered.
Axel: But then, during my time as a Nobody, I've made plenty of mistakes cause I was afraid and unsure of the decisions I made. On the one hand, I wanted to be with Roxas and Xion, to be there for them, to protect them. But on the other hand, I left my soulless loyalty and duty to the Organization. And I was honestly afraid of ticking off Xemnas. By carrying the orders laid before me during that time, I made things worse and hurt my friends. All because I wasn't sure of myself and confident in myself to do what I truly thought was right. Which is funny, cause as a former Nobody, we didn't have feelings. Only memories.
Sora and the others sympathized with Axel. They already came to the conclusion that Axel, like many Organization XIII members, was a victim of circumstances, mainly of Xehanort's manipulation.
Axel: Sometime later on, I awoke in Radiant Garden. At that time, I had figured Sora had defeated Xemnas, much to my relief. However, I was confused as to where my friend Isa went. So, I went out to find some answers. Sometime later, I made my way to Master Yen-Sid's tower, hoping he'd be willing to help me instead of annihilating me. Buuuuuut, before I could get anything, I had to prove my worth to him and that I truly was not siding with Xehanort. So, he sent me out on a mission to help out King Mickey and his pals as Maleficent and her sidekick were hassling them. Saved their queen, went into Sora's dreamscape to help bail him out of Xehanort's clutches, unlocked my Keyblade, and joined the team to train and help take down the Organization during the war.
Gus: You went through all that, despite being so unsure of yourself, unconfident?
Axel: Yeah. When I went in to save Sora from Xehanort, I had the confidence I needed. Heh, even taunted the nut job a bit. And when I unlocked my Keyblade, it was the final nail in the coffin for me. I knew I was sure in my heart that I really had the strength to protect my friends. Also, I want to be immortalized in people's hearts and minds as the guy who's known to always be there when need be. To always have me memorized.
Gus: Known as "the guy who's known to always be there, when need be"...
Gus could somewhat understand as he went through that experience when helping at the Illusionist Graveyard. Though, not necessarily be renowned for it, but just have the confidence to be there for his friends.
Axel: Just keep that confidence, kid. It'll help you always. Got it memorized?
Gus: *nods* Hmph. Got it.
Axel: Good.
[End KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days [Xion's Theme] Kingdom Hearts HD I.5 ReMIX]
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Magical Mystery- Extended]
Master Yen-Sid: Now then. Please summon your Keyblade, Gus.
Gus: Sure.
Gus does so by extending his right hand.
Master Yen-Sid: Ahh.
Axel: Looks cool.
Gus: Thanks. Oh! And I already have a name for it.
Sora: You do?
Gus: Yup. I know your Keyblade is called the Kingdom Key. Luz's is Inner Peace. Amity's is Burning Love. Willow's is Nature's Valor. And my Keyblade is named Trickster's Conviction.
(NOTE: Shoutout to YeOldeKeyhole for that name!)
Axel: Cool name.
Gus: Thanks.
Master Yen-Sid: Gus.
Gus: Yes, Master?
Master Yen-Sid: I must say, your Keyblade is quite intriguing.
Gus: Really?
Master Yen-Sid: Your Keyblade is seen as a conduit of mystery. As made evident by its shape and design, it tells me you are someone that peers beyond conventional senses with deception, albeit without malicious intent.
Gus blankly stared at Master Yen-Sid.
Gus: ...What?
Sora: You like to magic with a hint of showmanship.
Gus: Oh. Yeah, that's totally my style.
Master Yen-Sid: ...Yes. Now then.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Magical Mystery- Extended]
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -The Promised Beginning- Extended]
Everyone turns to Master Yen-Sid.
Master Yen-Sid: Luz Noceda, Amity Blight, Willow Park, Gus Porter.
The four teens stood in attention.
Master Yen-Sid: I am pleased to see all four of you have unlocked your Keyblades. And you already know the purpose of Keyblade wielders. I hope that you will be ready to walk that path.
Luz/Amity/Willow/Gus: Yes, Master!
Luz: I can't wait to be a Guardian!
Gus: So many worlds to explore, worlds beyond ours.
Amity: Hmph. It wouldn't be for vacations.
Willow: Right. We'd be saving them from the Heartless and other forms of darkness.
Master Yen-Sid: Correct. Though you will be free to explore as you please, your main priority is to protect. Sora, I have entrusted you to being Luz's Master since you are the only experienced wielder there. Now, you must do the same for all four.
Sora: Yes, Master!
Axel: Four apprentices... You've got your work cut out for you, Sora.
Sora: Heh, I accept the challenge. *turns around* Today, we'll be training a lot.
Luz and the witches nod before Sora turns back to Master Yen-Sid.
Sora: Master, pretty soon, we'll have Kairi back.
Luz: And the rest of us will be there to help Sora out.
Sora: Which is why we will be training hard for the rest of the time we have left. That way, by then, we'll be ready.
Master Yen-Sid: Excellent. In that case, we'll leave you to it.
Axel: Good luck, you guys. And if you have to fight your way to get to her, show no mercy.
Sora/Luz/Amity/Willow/Gus: You bet!
Master Yen-Sid: Until next time.
The call ends as Sora turns to Luz and with witches.
Sora: Ok, guys. Before we train, who's up for breakfast?
Luz and the witches cheer. But before they could, Hooty rolled in.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -The Promised Beginning- Extended]
Hooty: Hoot! Hoot! Sora! Eda's on her way!
Sora and Luz gasped in excitement.
Luz: Sora!
Sora: I know! Guys! It's time!
Gus raised his fists into the air.
Gus: Aw, yeah!
Amity and Willow grew nervous.
Amity/Willow: Do we HAVE to?
Sora/Luz/Gus: Yes!
Sora: Consider it...initiation.
Amity/Willow: *groans* Fiiiiine.
[Cut to Eda walking up to the Owl House]
Eda: *sigh* Finally, all the garbage is set on fire and thrown away.
Hooty reaches up to Eda.
Hooty: Eda! Hold up!
Eda: Hooty, what's going on?
?: Eda!
Eda suddenly looked up to see the teens on the roof, surprising her.
Eda: What the? Kids! What are you doing up there?!
Sora: We got something to show you! It's super cool!
Eda: Knowing you five, it's probably nuts. Well, let's see it!
Sora: Alright, guys! Here! We! Go!
[Play Sanjō! Ginyū Tokusentai! Instrumental Version (Yō Yamazaki)]
All five teens simultaneously jumped off the roof and perfectly landed crouching. They then stand with confident smiles.
Eda: What the?
Hooty: whispering Shh. Watch.
KEYBLADE HEROES! KEYBLADE HEROES! KEYBLADE HEROES! KEYBLADE HEROES!
Willow briefly crisscrossed her arms before taking a deep breath and letting out a battle cry while she flexed her arms. She grunts as she punches her left fist and summons her Keyblade with her right hand. She slightly turned her body to her left and struck a power pose.
Willow: I'M WILLOW!
Next was Amity. She stood there with her hands on her hips before she spun to her right in place three times.
Amity: I AAAAAAAM...
After her third spin, Amity extended her right hand to summon her Keyblade and pointed towards Eda's direction. Striking a pose.
Amity: AMITY!
Next was Luz. She stood there with her eyes closed before she opened them with a smirk. Then, she took a deep breath, extended her arms outward parallel to each other, and moved her left arm counterclockwise and her right arm clockwise before clapping her palms together. Then, she swiftly moved her arms outwards parallel to each other again while summoning her Keyblade. She then spins it and hoists it on her right shoulder while giving off a peace sign with her left hand and a wink.
Luz: I'M LUZ!
Next was Sora. With his right hand, he fist pumps and then extends it forward to summons his Keyblade. He grunts as he swings his Keyblade forward to the right. Then swings it to his left, where he then spins it around and points it upwards while holding both hands.
Sora: SORAAAAAA!
KEYBLADE HEROES! KEYBLADE HEROES! KEYBLADE HEROES! KEYBLADE HEROES!
Finally, was Gus. Who was standing there in the middle of the other with his back turned. He turns his head back with a cheeky grin, twirls to his left, and extends his right hand forward to summon his Keyblade. He then spins it one and a half times, swipes it once over his shoulder, and then swipes it down and behind him while still facing Eda.
Gus: I'M GUS!
The five maintained their poses.
Willow: TO—
Amity: GETH—
Luz: ER—
Sora: WE—
Gus: ARE—
Then they switched to a different pose simultaneously. With confident smirks, they stood up straight, widened their feet to keep firm balance, swung and kept their Keyblades still behind their backs, extended their left hands out in front of them, and opened up all five fingers.
Willow/Sora/Gus/Luz/Amity: KEYBLADE HERO 5!
[End Sanjō! Ginyū Tokusentai! Instrumental Version (Yō Yamazaki)]
Eda stood there with a blank, owlish expression, not fully processing what she saw. All the while, Hooty was impressed.
Hooty: WOAH! That was so cool, guys!
After a bit, Eda got her train of thought working again and was slightly amused.
Eda: Wow...what an entrance.
Sora/Luz/Gus: We nailed it!
The three high-fived one another as Willow and Amity slumped while their sweat dropped.
Willow: Eh, it was kinda fun. But I hope we don't have to do that every single time we fight.
Amity: Agreed. *thinking* And, I couldn't refuse Luz.
Sora: *fist pumped* Anyway, with Gus as our newest Keyblade's chosen, we'll be a stronger team than ever before!
Eda: Well, I'll be! You got yours now, kid?
Gus: Check it out.
Gus shows off his Keyblade.
Eda: Well, dang. One, two, three, four, five. Five Keyblade wielders. Someday, to be protecting worlds.
Luz: That's right. And today, we'll be training harder than ever.
Amity: Pretty soon, we'll be mounting the rescue mission of Kairi.
Willow: Sora's almost done planning the whole operation.
Gus: And when it's done...
Sora: We'll all meet here and go over it.
Eda: Great. *clapped her hands* The sooner we find Kairi...
Eda leans in towards Sora.
Eda: The sooner you get to ask her out~.
Luz/Amity/Willow/Gus: Ooooooohhhh!~
Sora: *blushes hard* Aw, cut it out! I just want to rescue her from where she's from!
Luz: Yes~.
Amity: And finally, confess your undying love~.
Willow: The moment you've been waiting for~.
Gus: The chance of a lifetime!
Luz and the witches laugh a bit.
Sora: *still blushing* Seriously, stop it, or you guys go hungry for the morning.
Luz and the witches immediately stopped, growing slightly fearful as Sora grew smug.
Sora: That's better. Now, today's morning special...french toast with pork sausages.
Luz: Sweet! *chanting* French toast! French toast! French toast!
The witches joined Luz. Despite not knowing what french toast actually is, they figured it would be delicious because Sora made it.
Sora: Coming, Eda?
Eda: You bet. After breakfast, I'm heading back out. Got stuff to take care of today.
After everyone finished breakfast well as relaxing in the living rooms, the teens went out front to train while Eda went out.
[Cut to Bonesborough's market]
Eda walks up to one of her usual spots for her business.
Eda: Alright! *rubs her palms together* Time to make some money!
Just as Eda was about to set up her stand, she suddenly heard screams of terror.
Eda: What the heck is going on?!
[Play Kingdom Hearts 3 - Robot Overdrive - Extended]
Eda ran around the corner towards the sound of the commotion and became shocked and gasped at what she saw. Demon Heartless are running amok and attacking as many civilians as they can. Some of the emperor's coven members can also be seen trying to fight them off, albeit barely.
Coven Member#1: Darn these Heartless!
Coven Member#2: Everyone! Please remain calm and evacuate immediately!
Coven Member#3: Where's backup!?
Coven Member#4: ETA, 10 minutes!
A fifth emperor's coven member was seen launched away by Heartless, slamming him away with its right palm.
Coven Member#1: Steve!
The fifth emperor's coven member revealed to be Steve, recovers quickly and blasts that particular Heartless with fire, destroying it.
Steve: Don't worry, I'm fine! Stand your ground and keep fighting!
Steven and his team regrouped to fight off the rest of the Heartless as Eda watched on.
Eda: *sighs* I should call Sora and the others, but then they'll have two fights on their hands with those emperor's coven chumps. I'm sure they can handle it.
Just as Eda turned around, beginning to leave, she then sees another group of citizens being attacked by the Heartless. Except for this time, no emperor's coven members helped them. Eda thought about getting Sora and the others, but part of her knew it would take a while to reach them. Not only that but by leaving the citizens behind, the Heartless would increase in numbers if they slayed them. But also felt as though she couldn't bear the thought of seeing people getting hurt or killed, which is strangely new to Eda as she had never felt this way before. Perhaps it's because of her knowledge of what the Heartless are capable of...or perhaps...it was a certain boy simply rubbing off on her.
Eda: *sigh* *thinking* Sora, I swear you're a bad influence on me. Haha!
Eda ran towards the group that was being attacked. Light magic emitted with both her index fingers, and she proceeded to blast each Heartless with small light arrows. One by one, the Heartless were destroyed. Eda then checked on the citizens.
Eda: Hey, you good?
One of them opened his eyes to see the Heartless gone and became surprised to see Eda.
Citizen #1: Wait. Eda the Owl Lady? Did you just save us?
Eda: Eh, don't get used to it. Let's just say I know how to deal with those chumps. Anyway, you guys better get out of here and hide.
Citizen#1: You don't have to tell me twice.
He and the rest ran off.
Citizen#1: *shouting back* Thanks, by the way!
Eda: *nods* Hmph. *turns around* Now, then—
?: FREEZE!
Eda turns around to see some emperor's coven members surrounding her. The members were the backup that was requested.
Coven Member#6: Eda the Owl Lady! You're under arrest!
Eda: Seriously?! Don't you chumps have those monsters to worry about?!
Coven Member#7: The others are already handling them! We're going to handle you!
Eda: Tch!
Eda enters her stance, ready to fight. When more Demon Heartless suddenly appeared and attacked the emperor's coven members while one of them extended its wings and tackled Eda into a forest nearby. The Demon Heartless maintained a tight grip on Eda as she struggled to break free.
Eda: Let go of me, you creep!
Eda gets her right arm free and punches the Heartless right in the face, causing it to tumble and drop Eda onto the ground. Wasting no time, Eda destroys the Heartless with a fireball.
[End Kingdom Hearts 3 - Robot Overdrive - Extended]
Eda: *phew* Glad that's over.
Eda stands to find herself surrounded by trees while standing in the middle of an open empty space of dirt and few grass patches. Before anything else could happen, a voice suddenly echoes all around Eda.
?: Over? Oh, I'm afraid we've just merely begun.
Eda's eyes widened as she immediately recognized the voice.
Eda: I know that voice... *began glaring* Show yourself!
[Play Kingdom Hearts -Villains Of A Sort- Extended]
Just then, a corridor of darkness appeared in front of Eda, and out walks a woman. The woman in question is seen as having a fair and green-skin complexion. Her shining yellow eyes are heavily shadowed with violet makeup, and her lips are painted red. Her head is topped with a black-horned headdress, and she wears a long, tattered black robe with purple trim and maroon flare edges. Spikes are seen along with the collar of her robe. She carries a staff with a glowing green orb at the tip. She carries a small smirk on her face.
?: Hello, Eda.
Eda: *eyes narrowed* Maleficent...
At last, they met. Eda, the Owl Lady, and Maleficent, the Mistress of Evil. Not wanting to take any chances, Eda immediately summons her staff. The two then enter into a staredown.
Eda: About time we met.
Maleficent: Yes. I should say so.
Eda: I take it you were the one who brought the Heartless here from the very beginning.
Maleficent: Yes.
Eda: You sent them after Sora and us. The Darksides, your lame sidekick, all of it.
Maleficent: Correct again.
Eda: I also know how you work. Visit other worlds and hope to conquer whatever castle's hanging around. As well as collecting whatever you think will help give you the edge.
Maleficent: Hmm. It would seem that Sora has informed you of me quite well.
Eda: He has. And it doesn't matter what you're planning, I'll stop you.
Maleficent: Oh? Eda the Owl Lady...embracing the role of a hero? It is my understanding that you're an infamous criminal.
Eda's eyes narrow again in silence.
Maleficent: Ah, yes. It seems that Sora's heart has touched yours. How disgustingly sweet.
Eda: *smirks* I wouldn't call myself a hero. Sure, Sora's great to hang around with. But that doesn't mean I'm stopping my wild witch ways. That said, you and your Heartless are bad news, so I've gotta take you down. But before we get to that, I gotta know something.
Maleficent: Ask away.
Eda: You weren't really trying to draw me out. You were hoping for Sora, right?
Maleficent: Correct. As a matter of fact, Pete tells me that his new friends have unlocked their Keyblades. Four new Keyblade wielders aligned with Sora are a threat to my plans. I simply cannot have that. So, I was hoping to deal with them myself personally.
Eda: Heh, too bad for you. As we speak, the kids are working hard to get stronger.
[Pause Kingdom Hearts -Villains Of A Sort- Extended]
[Cut to the teens training in front of the Owl House]
Luz and Willow clashed their Keyblades together, locking them into a struggle hold.
Luz: Wow. You're really getting stronger.
Willow: You're not doing bad yourself.
Sora: Alright, good. Make sure not to let your opponent overwhelm you in strength, even by an inch.
Unfortunately for Luz, due to Willow's physical strength, she was overwhelmed quicker than she thought as Willow pushed Luz back, causing her to stop with a skid.
Sora: *turns around* Amity! Gus! How are you two doing?
Amity has Gus pinned down on his stomach, locking his right leg in a hold as he struggles to break free.
Amity: Give up yet, Gus?
Gus: Not yet. Sora taught me a trick to get out of this.
Amity: Oh yeah? What?
Gus, slightly twisting around, reaches Amity and pokes her side.
Amity: *widens her eyes* Eep!
Gus then reaches back, grabs onto her shoulders, and throws her over him, launching her away and crashing into a nearby tree. Everyone stopped what they were doing as they saw what had just happened. Amity groaned while recovering.
Amity: I'm ok!
Sora: Ok, guys. Get ready for the next exercise while I check on Amity.
[Cut back to Eda and Maleficent]
[Play Kingdom Hearts -Villains Of A Sort- Extended]
Maleficent: It matters not. I, too, have found ways to get stronger. And while I wish to have found Sora and his little friends for elimination, I suppose I'll have to make do with you.
[End Kingdom Hearts -Villains Of A Sort- Extended]
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Rage Awakened- Extended]
Eda laughs loudly.
Maleficent: Oh?
Eda: Sorry. I just didn't know you had a sense of...
Eda suddenly blasts a wave of light magic toward Maleficent.
Eda: humor!
Maleficent widens her eyes before creating a forcefield to block the incoming attack.
Maleficent: Well, well. You seem to be eager to perish. Well, all you had to do was ask!
Maleficent powers up with her darkness and green flames.
Eda: Don't count on it!
Eda powers up with her light magic. And the two rushed forward to clash with one another. Their staffs struck one another. Then, with quick thinking, Eda punches Maleficent in the face.
Eda: Didn't expect that, did you?
Maleficent: Grr. Such barbaric methods.
Maleficent returns the favor by delivering a staff swings toward Eda's stomach, causing her to wince.
Maleficent: Impudent woman.
Maleficent then unleashes black winds, sending her spiraling and crashing toward some trees, causing her to groan.
Maleficent: *smirks* Hmph.
Eda then stands.
Eda: Alright then... Let's do this.
Eda spins her staff and blasts a few light arrows. Maleficent responds, conjuring a wall of green flames to block the projectiles.
Maleficent: Hyah!
Maleficent raises her staff, and lightning bolts suddenly begin striking down around Eda.
Eda: Whoa!
Eda quickly activates a forcefield to block the lightning strikes.
Eda: Ha! You'll have to do better than that!
Maleficent then slams the bottom of her staff onto the ground, causing the terrain to shake rapidly, causing Eda to fall over and hurt herself.
Maleficent: This world truly has remarkable spells. Construction magic; manipulation of the earth.
Eda: Oh yeah?
Eda then uses the opportunity to rush towards and uppercut Maleficent with her staff, sending her flying in the air. Eda taps into her magic, giving her the boost to catch up to Maleficent faster. Seeing this, Maleficent swings her staff downward, slamming into Eda's head.
Eda: Argh! *snarls*
Eda then performs a spinning kick, which makes Maleficent go crashing through multiple trees before knocking her down to the ground with her staff. Maleficent then teleports away in a puff of green smoke to a nearby area to catch her breath.
Maleficent: *groans* I must admit...she is quite skilled. But she lacks discipline. Wild witches...truly an annoyance.
Eda lands in front of her at a fair distance.
Eda: That's what makes me so great. By not following rules, etiquette, or whatever, I'm able to be as powerful as I can be. Like so!
Eda summons a giant flower behind her, which then spits out a large black seed directly at Maleficent. Immediately, Maleficent teleports away, and the seed explodes upon contact with the terrain. Maleficent appears floating above, swings her staff in a circular motion, and unleashes three dark green ghosts with black narrowed eyes with white pupils at Eda at high speed.
Eda: Woah!
Eda, raising her staff, releases a huge flash of light, destroying the ghosts.
Eda: Huh, Sora's never mentioned that attack. Must be one of those new tricks she's said she picked up.
Maleficent: Indeed.
Eda leaps into the air and casts multiple ice spears to throw at Maleficent. But she breaks each one by spinning her staff in place rapidly before rising into the air further and shooting several blue orbs of light she summoned from behind her.
Eda veers to the left and right to dodge before unleashing a massive stream of water that harshly splashes at Maleficent, keeping her at bay. Getting annoyed, Maleficent raises her staff.
Maleficent: Graviga!
Eda suddenly stops in mid-air.
Eda: Uh-oh.
Maleficent: *swings her staff downward* Force!
Eda was sent hurtling down and crashing into the ground. Seeing the opportunity, Maleficent conjured a blade made of dark-green light and launched it toward Eda, cutting off her right arm. Eda screamed in agony the moment it made contact. She winces heavily, using her left arm to clutch her severed right arm. Maleficent laughs as she spins her staff and points it directly at Eda.
Maleficent: Owl Lady, fear my power! For you see, I dub this...your final hour!
The orb on Maleficent's staff started emitting a very bright green light as she locked Eda in her sight. Then, growing a wide sadistic grin, Maleficent fires a massive green fireball so fast that it could've very well broken the sound barrier. Eda widened her eyes in shock, and then a flash of bright green engulfed everything as soon as the attack made contact. As soon as the flash clears, Maleficent scopes around to see the damages. She sees a large crater scorched with green fires remaining. It was then that Maleficent perked up and turned around to find Eda standing nearby the trees, holding onto one of them for support, panting for breath. What surprised her the most was her right arm was reattached and healed.
Eda: Are you serious about the rhyming? *chuckles*
Maleficent: Impossible! I severed your arm! How did you—
Eda: *chuckles* Reattaching my body? Let's just say it's a nifty benefit... As for me, warping? Courtesy of Sora. Even I can learn something from the kid.
Maleficent: I see. Well, I haven't had my fun yet. So, let us continue, shall we!?
Maleficent then launches streams of black and green lights, hurtling toward Eda at high speeds. Eda narrowly managed to avoid all of the attacks.
Eda: Close one!
The two sorceresses rushed at each other, clashed their staffs, and pushed each other back. Eda tries firing some light arrows, but Maleficent throws her staff like a boomerang and rapidly hits Eda's body all over in place before calling her staff back, then smashing Eda to the ground. Maleficent raises her staff.
Maleficent: Dark Thundaga!
Eda immediately looks up to see the lightning coming down. But before they could strike, Eda hurriedly raised her free hand.
Eda: Stopra!
Eda uses Stopra to freeze the bolts in place and deflects them back at Maleficent before regaining ground.
Eda: *to herself* Thanks, Sora.
Maleficent: Argh!
As Maleficent dodges the bolts by teleportation, Eda uses the distraction to activate another spell she learned from Sora.
Eda: Gravira!
Before Maleficent could react, Eda traps her in energy in the form of a miniature event horizon. Then, by swinging her staff downward, Maleficent hurls back and crashes into the ground.
Eda: Game over, Maleficent!
Eda then casts one large thunderbolt onto Maleficent, causing her to scream in pain, then lose consciousness, ultimately defeating her.
Eda: *sigh* Done.
Maleficent groans as she struggles to stand on her feet.
Maleficent: *snarls* Bested by an immature, Impudent—have you truly no sense of dignity?
Eda: Blah, blah, blah. Says the wannabe conqueror. Now, unless you want another thrashing, get lost.
Maleficent begrudgingly creates a corridor of darkness.
Maleficent: I may have been defeated now... But the next time we meet, you won't be so fortunate.
Eda: Heh, then it's a date.
Eda hollered with laughter, slapping her knee and snorting as Maleficent left with an unhinged scowl on her face. As soon as she left, Eda calmed down.
Eda: Phew... That was tough...
Eda pulls out one of her elixirs and drinks it.
Eda: Finally, I thought she'd never shut up. Anyway, better get back home and tell Sora about Maleficent. But first...
Eda heads into Bonesborough to check out the damage that the Heartless did.
Fortunately, there was very little collateral damage. On top of that, she overheard the Emperor's Coven members state that there were no casualties or injured but no loss of life. Relieved, Eda flies straight back to the owl's house and lands to see the teens lying on the ground, panting.
Eda: Woah. Tough training today?
Luz: *breaths in, then out* Yeah.
Sora: Everyone here did great today.
Willow: *phew* Now, that was a workout.
Amity: I still can't believe Gus managed to throw me like that.
Gus: *cheerful* I didn't think I could.
Eda: Glad to see you're working hard. By the way, Sora—
Sora: Ahp—hold that thought, Eda.
With a snap of a finger, Sora summons potions to each teen. The teens thanked him and drank the potions, rejuvenating their strength. They then all stood up, yawned, and began stretching their bodies.
Sora: Alright. That's all for today. So you were saying, Eda?
Eda: I ran into Maleficent.
Teens: *shocked* What?!
Sora: What happened?!
Eda: While I was out, some Heartless showed up and started attacking folks around town. I've beaten them, of course. But then, I was thrown into the forest. That's when I saw her.
Amity: Wait. Did you save the people?
Eda: A few of them, but the Emperor's Coven did most of the work.
Sora: I'm glad to hear you helped. And I can't believe Maleficent ambushed you.
Eda: Actually, she was hoping to draw you kids out. But she got me instead.
Luz: *groans* I wish we WERE there. If we were—
Gus: We could've taken her!
Eda: Yeah, she was tough. But not that tough. I had her beat.
Teens: Sweet!
Eda: Yeah. But, as I said, I sent her packing. Although, we all better be prepared. She said that wouldn't be the last time she would show up. Who knows what she'll come up with next...
Sora: Whatever she's planning, we'll be ready.
Luz: So, Sora. Same time next weekend?
Sora: Yeah. But first. There's something I gotta tell you all.
Everyone turned to Sora.
Luz: What is it?
Sora: Recently...Naminé entered my heart and mind...
Luz and the witches slowly widened their eyes, already believing where Sora was going.
Sora: And gave me all the info I need...to rescue Kairi.
Luz and the others gasped.
Luz: No way.
Sora: Yes, way. With this knowledge, I'll be able to put in the finishing touches. In fact, the timing is perfect.
Eda: How so?
Sora: We have that field trip coming up very soon.
Eda: Field trip?
Luz: Oh yeah, we're going on a trip to the...
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Master Xehanort- Extended [Redux]]
Then, Luz and the witchlings realized what Sora meant as they slowly turned back to him.
Amity: You mean...she's—
Sora nods.
Willow: *soft gasp* No way.
Gus: I can't believe it.
Eda: Uhhh, hello? Mind filling me in, Sora?
Luz: Eda. We're on a field trip to...
Sora: The Emperor's castle.
Eda widened her eyes in shock, then glared.
Eda: I should've guessed she'd be there.
Sora: Listen up!
Everyone focused on Sora.
Sora: Two weeks from now is the field trip. The weekend before, we'll meet here first thing for a briefing. Saturday will be our final training day. Sunday, you'll rest. Monday...is when we move out. Understand?
Luz/Witchlings: Right!
Eda smiles at the sight of the determination the teens have. However, she grew a frown. Eda, and by extension Luz and Sora, are already enemies to the Emperor's Coven, so no doubt they'll be ready for the three of them. So many thoughts are going through Eda's mind. How will they pull this off? How much will they have to fight? Has Lilith already informed the Emperor's Coven about Sora? Either way, she knows that the rescue mission will undoubtedly be difficult. And hopes that she'd be much help when the time comes.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Master Xehanort- Extended [Redux]]
Nightfall came, and everyone had already gone to their homes. Luz was asleep while Sora was sitting out on the roof. He looked at the moon briefly before looking down at Kairi's good luck charm.
Sora: Kairi...
It was then Sora heard footsteps and quickly turned around to see Eda walking towards him.
Sora: Oh, Eda.
Eda: Can't sleep, kiddo?
Sora: *chuckles* What gave it away?
Eda: Haha. ... mind if I join you?
Sora: Not at all.
Eda sits down next down to Sora.
Eda: Thinking about Kairi?
Sora: *nods* Yeah.
Sora continues staring at the charm.
Sora: Pretty soon, I'll have her back.
Eda: Yup. And you're not doing it alone. We'll all be there. You just gotta tell us the plan.
Sora: Yeah.
Sora sighs, which piques Eda's curiosity.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Dearly Beloved- Extended]
Eda: What's up?
Sora: Nothing. Just...reminiscing.
Eda: About?
Sora: Everything. From the day I first met Kairi all the way to now. As I've told Riku and the others...
[Flashback to the Keyblade Graveyard]
[Sora: My whole journey began the day I lost her.
He placed a hand over his heart.
Sora: And every time I find her... she slips away again. I thought we'd finally be together. But she's out there, alone, not for one more second.]
[Back to Sora and Eda]
Sora: Not a day goes by where I don't think about her since my arrival here. And ever since I first met Kairi, I've always enjoyed being around her and cared about her. And she's shown the same to me. I genuinely believed that when I first came here to this world, I would just find her and bring her back. That's it. But then, I met you and Luz. Eventually, meeting Willow, Gus, and Amity. Can't forget King and Hooty too. I sure was lucky to meet you guys at just the right time...as the rest has been unforgettable.
Eda: Aw, shucks. We're lucky to have met you too. Ever since you came here, you've really changed our lives for the better. You became Luz's very first friend, you gave Willow and Gus the confidence they needed in their lives, you've turned Amity around, and they each got Keyblades. Those four are ready to follow in your footsteps. Ready to follow your lead.
Sora: My lead...huh...
Eda: Hm?
Sora: My lead. This'll actually be the first time I've ever had to lead a team. Teaching them was one thing...but... Am I really ready to lead them? What if I fail?
Eda: Hey. Hey, hey, hey. Hey. Don't start doubting yourself now, Sora. Think about everything you've experienced up until this point. You've seen and faced the dangers that come with the Keyblade. You know what it's like. So, who better to lead, than the guy who knows his stuff?
Sora: ...
Eda: Plus, I'll be there with you as well. I can easily nudge you in the right direction when you need me to. And another thing, Luz and the others already know what they're getting into. They're determined to see this through to the end with you. After all, they insisted on it. We all did. We've got your back, so don't worry.
Sora: Thanks, Eda.
Eda: *nods* Hm...
Eda then looks in front of her.
Sora: *chuckles* Something on YOUR mind?
Eda: I've got a question for you.
Sora: Hm?
Eda: When...your parents...were alive... Did they ever talk to you about Kairi? Like, did they ever give you...some idea of what it means to be in a relationship? Should she accept your feelings?
Sora paused for a bit. He never really thought that.
Sora: Well... My mom tried to talk to me about that once...but I don't really...remember.
Eda: Oh.
Sora: Why do you ask?
Eda: I was thinking...I've dated before... And...if you ever need...you know...pointers...you can always, you know, come to me.
Sora: Really?
Eda: Yeah. You once said you still have a lot to learn about love. Might as well teach you about it.
Sora: Oh. Um...thanks.
Eda: No prob.
Sora: Now, I have a question for you, Eda.
Eda: Shoot.
Sora paused for a bit.
Sora: What made you want to take Luz and me in?
Eda's eyes widened as she turned to Sora.
Eda: What?
Sora: The day we met, we were complete strangers. We did not know each other. For all we know, we could've become enemies despite beating up that coven guard. And yet, you were just so cool with both of us. But what made you wanna take us in the first place?
Eda paused before thinking of what to say. Mind you; she did have the answer. Although her reasons, while initially just for King's old crown, changed into something more over time.
Eda: ...That's kinda hard to answer, kid.
Sora: ?
Eda: I mean, you know me, I'm not sappy. But...
Eda closes her eyes and sighs.
Eda: Remember when I needed your help with King's old crown?
Sora: Yeah. The ultimate power story becoming bogus. Luz told me.
Eda: *sheepish* Yeah... *chuckles*
Eda: Well, what you didn't know is what I told Luz.
Sora: Huh?
[Cue flashback]
[Eda: King and I don't have much in this world. We only have each other. If that dumb crown is important to him, it's important to me. And besides, us weirdos have to stick together, you know? *winks*
Luz looks up at Eda for a bit before looking down with a blushing smile.]
[Back to Eda and Sora]
Eda: Truth be told, aside from King and Hooty, I've been...lonely. Despite hating authority and love and wanting to do as I please, I never wanted my life to be like this. Being cursed and not having anyone in my life. The only reason I commit my petty crimes is just mainly to survive. I had a family...but...well, you know...
Sora: Lilith joined the Emperor's Coven.
Eda: Yup. And as for my parents...
Eda paused, remembering a certain incident that happened when she was younger.
Eda: Let's just say...we lost touch a long time ago.
Sora: Eda, I'm sorry to hear that.
Eda: Nah, it's fine. Anyway, I've had a lot of people in my life...but...because of the curse. I've had to keep them out, not wanting to hurt them. I thought I would have to be alone for the rest of my life. That was...until you and Luz showed up.
Sora: ?
Eda: You kids, at first I thought you were just lost from Human Realm, wanting to go back ASAP. But, as I've gotten to know you, learning what you both went through. I couldn't help but sympathize. Luz, for being an outcast. You, for so many reasons, to list. When I think about all that...
Sora: It's like we were meant to meet and become friends.
Eda: Heh, sounds about right. Earlier, I said you changed everyone's lives, including mine. Like Luz, you made me feel accepted. Something I haven't experienced from others since Ven, Aqua, and Terra...
Sora: Eda...
Eda: Haha! Look at me, getting all sappy. I suppose what I'm trying to say is...I'm glad to have you around. You're like faaaaa—
Eda kept going, cracking a nervous smile, realizing she was about to say something she didn't necessarily mean to say. Quickly noticing Sora's confused reaction, she caught herself in time.
Eda: aaaareaking cool, kid. The coolest kid I've ever known!
Sora: O-oh. *chuckles* That's an odd way of saying that, but thanks.
Eda: Hey, no sweat. *playfully nudges Sora's arm*
The two chuckle a bit before looking down.
Eda: Don't worry, Sora.
Eda places her hand on Sora's hair, softly ruffling it.
Eda: You'll do great out there, and we'll get Kairi back. If Xehanort couldn't stop you, what chance do other enemies have?
Sora: *chuckles* Right! And once we get Kairi back, we'll party like it's 1999!
Eda: *laughs* What?
Sora: Eh, someone on crystal ball said it. But I assume it means a big party.
Eda: You're right. And yeah, we're SO doing that.
The two laugh a bit before looking at one another with smiles.
Eda: Alright, kid. Back to bed. You need to be at full strength. As a matter of fact, I do too.
Sora: Right.
The two stand up and head back inside. But before they went to their own rooms, Sora called Eda one last time.
Sora: Eda?
Eda: Hm?
Sora suddenly hugs Eda, surprising her a bit.
Sora: Thank you...for taking me in.
Eda chuckles as she returns the hug.
Eda: You're welcome. And thank you...for everything you've done for us.
The two let go.
Sora: Good night, Eda.
Eda: Good night, Sora.
The two then went into their rooms.
[Cut to Eda lying in her nest]
Eda: *phew* Gotta love the kid.
[Flashback]
[I'm glad to have you two around. You're like faaaaa—
Eda kept going, cracking a nervous smile, realizing she was about to say something she didn't necessarily mean to say. Quickly noticing Sora's confused reaction, she caught herself in time.
Eda: aaaareaking cool, kid. The coolest kid I've ever known!]
Eda: Yeesh. Get a hold of yourself, Owl Lady. You almost made things awkward. Haha.
Eda paused as she stared at the ceiling. She remembered something Sora once said the day after his memories were restored.
[Flashback]
[Sora: ...I think back to all the times when Eda was around. At first, I saw her as a cool, yet kind of a hoot, woman who took me in despite not knowing me at all at the time. As time went on, the way she treated me whenever she and I hung out, the way she cared for me the same way she cared for you, the way she worried about me whenever I was feeling down about something, the way she felt when she saw my memories of my struggles, the way she was acting when I won against Amity back at the Covention and winning in my other battles, I saw how proud she was. Heck, she and I work so well together against the Heartless and other enemies we faced. And the way how she just accepted me into her life. Everything she has done made me think of her as more than just a cool woman who lets me live in her house. I've never met anyone like that throughout my adventures. When I think about all that...
Sora began to tear up.
Sora: It's sorta like Eda's the closest thing to a mother figure in my life. *chuckles* In fact, your mom thought Eda was mine.]
Eda: Hmm... You know...he'd make a great...*yawns*
Eda then falls asleep with a small smile on his face, silently mouthing one word.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Dearly Beloved- Extended]
