Asukazen left his house, his steps heavy and slow as he began his search for Skuld. The town and its various districts were vast, and he knew it would take him a long time to find her. But he was in no hurry, time seemed irrelevant to him now.
As he walked through the bustling streets, his mind kept drifting back to the encounter with the mysterious figure and the haunting nightmares he had faced during the night. The weight of it all bore down on him heavily, and he couldn't shake the feeling that his days were numbered.
Despite this impending sense of doom, he remained resolute in his decision to face this threat alone. He had pushed away the Dream Eater and anyone else who might care about him, believing that he was protecting them from harm. But deep down, there was still a part of him that longed for companionship, for someone to understand and share the burden he carried.
His journey to find Skuld was slow and arduous, and with each step, he felt a little more detached from the world around him. His heart was heavy, and his mind was filled with the echoes of regret. But he knew that he had made his choice, and there was no turning back now.
As he approached the headquarter of the Unicornis Union, he saw Skuld standing there, accompanied by her Chirithy, [S] Chirithy. He felt a mix of emotions welling up inside him as he knew he had to face this situation without revealing too much.
Skuld turned to him with a warm smile.
Skuld: Hey, Asukazen, I'm glad you decided to join me on this mission.
Asukazen nodded quietly, his expression still somber.
Asukazen: Yeah, I thought it might be a good idea.
Skuld: Chirithy isn't with you? (Skuld asked, noticing the absence of Asukazen's Dream Eater.)
Asukazen looked away, unable to meet her gaze.
Asukazen: No, I... decided to send it away for a while. (he replied in a monotone voice.)
[S] Chirithy looked at Asukazen with a disinterested gaze, not bothering to exchange pleasantries.
Skuld continued.
Skuld: We need to go to a different world, a forest, to collect Lux and defeat Heartless. It might be dangerous, but with your skills, I know we can handle it.
Asukazen gave a half-hearted nod.
Asukazen: Yeah, I guess we'll see.
[S] Chirithy: I'll be keeping an eye on you. Don't think you can slack off.
Asukazen: I won't. I know the importance of our mission.
Skuld then summoned her Keyblade and pointed it towards the sky. Her Keyblade emitted a brilliant beam of light that illuminated the surroundings. Asukazen watched the display, feeling a mixture of awe and trepidation.
Skuld: Stay close, Asukazen. We need to work together to complete the mission.
Asukazen nodded, trying to push aside his fears and focus on the task at hand. He followed Skuld's lead as they ventured deeper into the forest, searching for Lux and facing off against Heartless.
[S] Chirithy: Keep your guard up! Heartless can be unpredictable.
Asukazen remained silent, his mind still clouded with thoughts of the looming threat he felt earlier. He tried to focus on the Heartless they encountered, using his magic to aid Skuld in their battles.
As the forest grew darker and the Heartless attacks intensified, Skuld and Asukazen found themselves surrounded by a group of powerful Heartless. They stood back-to-back, ready to face the onslaught.
Skuld: Don't hold back, Asukazen. Let's give it our all!
Asukazen took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. He unleashed his magic, sending blasts of fire and thunder at the Heartless, while Skuld skillfully wielded her Keyblade to fend off the enemies.
Skuld: You're pretty skilled with magic. Why don't you use a Keyblade?
Asukazen: I have my reasons.
Skuld seemed curious but didn't press further, focusing instead on their mission.
15 Minutes later.
As they continued through the forest, they encountered more Heartless, but the duo worked together seamlessly, defeating them and collecting Lux along the way. Time seemed to pass quickly, and Asukazen's anxiety began to ease slightly as he immersed himself in the mission.
The group then stood their ground as the ground beneath them trembled. Out of the trees emerged a massive Heartless, a Giant black looking Lizard with jagged teeth and glowing yellow eyes. Its long tail swiped through the air, and its sharp claws dug into the earth, leaving deep furrows in its wake.
Skuld's eyes widened at the sight of the formidable foe, and she tightened her grip on her Keyblade. Asukazen's heart pounded in his chest as he realized the gravity of the situation. He knew he had to do something, even if he didn't wield his Keyblades.
Skuld: Be careful! This one is strong!
He nodded, his mind racing with possibilities. He focused his energy and summoned all his strength for the upcoming battle. As the Giant Lizard lunged towards them, Asukazen acted quickly. He cast a powerful Thunder spell, aiming it at the creature's legs to immobilize it momentarily.
Skuld used the opening to strike, slashing at the Heartless with her Keyblade. But the Giant Lizard quickly recovered, shaking off the effects of the Thunder spell. Asukazen continued to cast spells, using Fire to deal damage and Ice to slow the creature down.
The battle was intense, they fought with everything they had. His magic proved to be valuable in keeping this enemy at bay, but they needed to find an opening to land a decisive blow.
Skuld: Asukazen, now! This is our chance!
With Skuld's signal, Asukazen focused all his energy and cast a powerful Aero spell, creating a strong wind barrier around the Heartless. The gust of wind knocked the creature off balance, leaving it vulnerable.
Skuld seized the opportunity and leaped in the air, unleashed a powerful combo of strikes with her Keyblade, aiming for the Heartless's weak spots. Asukazen continued to cast supportive spells, further weakening the creature.
Their teamwork was exceptional, and they fought with skill. Slowly but surely, they wore down the Giant Lizard until it finally shattered into shadowy particles, leaving behind Luxs and a sense of accomplishment.
Skuld knelt down to the forest floor, carefully counting the Luxs scattered around. As she meticulously tallied them one by one, she turned to [S] Chirithy, who gave her a disapproving look.
[S] Chirithy: Honestly, Skuld, we don't have time for this. Let's get going!
Skuld: I know, I know. But these Lux's are essential for our mission. I need to make sure we don't miss any.
Skuld nodded, stashing the Lux away, when she noticed a shift in Asukazen's posture. His attention was fixed on something in the distance. Curious, she peered into the forest and caught a fleeting glimpse of a white-cloaked figure that towered over the trees.
Without a word, Asukazen reached into his backpack and retrieved a mana potion. With a steady hand, he consumed it, his stance solidifying with the infusion of energy. He then turned to Skuld.
Asukazen: Skuld, go home. I'll handle this.
A moment of uncertainty passed over Skuld as she processed his words. She searched his face for some clue, some understanding of his insistence, but his expression revealed nothing.
Skuld: But, Asukazen...
He didn't wait for her to finish. He channeled his magic, a flash of thunder sparking beneath his feet. In seconds, he was gone, his departure marked by a faint blue mist and the distant crash of timber. The sound of collapsing trees echoed in the distance, and the forest seemed to come alive with an eerie energy.
Skuld's POV.
Skuld stood there, the forest's foreboding atmosphere pressing in around her.
[S] Chirithy: Skuld, what are you doing? You can't just let him go off alone!
She looked torn, torn between following her instincts to help a fellow Keyblade Wielder and respecting his wishes. In the end, she made a decision.
Skuld: Right, I can't just leave him, I have to find out what's going on.
With that, Skuld summoned her Keyblade and ran after Asukazen, wanting to help and protect her fellow Union member.
Asukazen's POV.
Asukazen's heart pounded loudly in his chest as he raced through the forest, the thunder and electricity propelling him forward at high speed. He could feel the ground trembling beneath him, and the loud stomping noise behind him grew closer and more menacing with each passing moment.
He knew that the three-meter-tall figure in the white cloak was hot on his heels, and he couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of dread. He pushed himself to go faster, his feet barely touching the forest floor as he weaved through the trees and foliage, trying to put as much distance between himself and the approaching threat.
As he ran, he saw the edge of a mountain in the distance. Without thinking, he made a split-second decision. He couldn't outrun this enormous foe on foot alone, and he needed to do something drastic. Gathering all his remaining strength, he propelled himself towards the edge of the mountain, his heart racing with fear and adrenaline.
In the last moment, Asukazen finally leaped off the edge of the mountain, his body soaring through the air. He felt a mix of terror and exhilaration as he plummeted down towards the unknown depths below. For a brief moment, time seemed to slow as he hung suspended in mid-air, the ground rushing up to meet him.
But then, just as suddenly, he felt a sudden surge of power within him. It was as if something awakened inside him, a deep connection to the magic he wielded. Instinctively, he called upon his thunder magic once more, creating a cushion of electrified air beneath him.
The impact was softened as he landed on this cushion, and he rolled to absorb the momentum. He stumbled back onto his feet, panting heavily, and glanced back up at the top of the mountain. He could see the pale figure peering over the edge, eyes narrowed in frustration.
His heart was still racing, but he couldn't help but feel a strange mix of fear and defiance as he looked up at the three-meter-tall being hovering on the edge of the mountain. He knew that he was no match, but something inside him refused to back down completely.
With a hint of taunting in his voice, Asukazen called out to the figure.
Asukazen: Is that all you've got? You might have to put in a little more effort if you want my heart!
He knew that his words were reckless, but he couldn't resist the urge to defy this towering adversary. As the figure let out a tired sigh, as if expressing annoyance or frustration., Asukazen's heart skipped a beat. What was this being's true intent? Why was it after him? Then, without warning, the imposing figure leaped off the edge of the mountain.
Asukazen's eyes widened in shock as the figure plummeted down towards him. He quickly jumped back, putting some distance between himself and the impending impact. As the figure landed, it caused an earthquake that rippled through the forest, trees swaying dangerously, and the ground beneath Asukazen's feet trembling. He stumbled back, feeling the immense power radiating from the mysterious being.
He realized that this foe was not to be underestimated, and his heart pounded even harder in his chest. He had to keep moving, to find a way to escape this relentless pursuer. When the ground settled, the tall figure calmly turned its attention back to Asukazen.
He pointed a long, finger at Asukazen, his voice emanating in an alien-like tone.
?: Paradoxum, surrender your heart. (it spoke, its words almost incomprehensible to Asukazen)
Fueled by a mix of fear and bravado, he retorted in a defiant tone.
Asukazen: If you want my heart, then come and get it! Show me what you've got you freak!
His arrogant words proved to be a grave mistake. Suddenly, time seemed to slow down, and the figure charged at him with astonishing speed. Before Asukazen could even react, the gigantic fist of the figure collided with his chest and head, sending him hurtling above the forest, his body spinning uncontrollably.
His body crashed back to the ground, leaving a trail of broken branches and disturbed leaves. He lay there, dazed and in pain, his vision blurred as he felt a mixture of agony and shock coursing through him. He struggled to catch his breath, his mind reeling from the force of the blow. For a few moments, his eyes went blank, and the world seemed to spin around him.
The figure's words rang in his ears again.
?: Surrender your heart.
With trembling hands, Asukazen reached into his pocket and pulled out two healing potions. Without a moment of hesitation, he drank both of them in one go, hoping they would ease the pain and injuries he had sustained from the powerful blow.
The healing potions worked its magic, and Asukazen felt a surge of rejuvenation coursing through his body. His wounds began to close, and some of the pain subsided. Despite feeling a bit better, he was still in a dire situation. The three-meter-figure was getting closer, and Asukazen could sense that it was growing impatient.
Its stomping getting louder and more impatient. As it drew nearer, it seemed to lament to itself.
?: Why must I put forth so much effort?
It then let out a frustrated sigh.
?: Why do they always make it so difficult? (the figure grumbled in its alien-like voice.) I can't stand this tiresome pursuit.
As the figure approached, Asukazen stood his ground, his heart pounding in his chest. He had made a vow. He was more willing to rely on his magic only, even if it meant facing an overwhelmingly powerful foe.
With his fire and thunder balls at the ready, Asukazen faced the three-meter-tall figure with a mixture of fear and defiance. He didn't know if he could win this battle, but he refused to back give up so easily. This was his life, his heart, and he would protect it at all costs.
His frustration grew as he launched fire and thunder balls at the three-meter-tall figure while sprinting in circle around him with his enchanted feets due to thunder magic, but there was no effect, only damaging the white cloak, revealing the face of the individual with closed eyes. The being's eyes were closed the whole time... Asukazen felt a surge of frustration, deciding to engage in close combat, infusing his hands with fire and lightning, and attempting to punch the enemy.
However, no matter how many elemental punches he had unleashed, they seemed to dissolve into nothing upon contact. The figure stood there, unscathed, emitting tired sighs, its disinterest palpable. In this moment, a crushing wave of realization swept over Asukazen. His mind whirled in turmoil, grappling with a piercing thought – he was truly weak. Despite his efforts, he couldn't even touch this foe.
Internally, Asukazen's thoughts raced in a tumultuous storm.
Asukazen: Why am I so ineffectual? (he questioned himself, his heart sinking) I've forsaken these Keyblades, relying solely on my magic. And yet, here I am, unable to make even a dent. Why...?
In an instant, the three-meter-tall figure retaliated, violently grabbing Asukazen with its gigantic hand and slamming him up and down onto the forest floor. Each impact sent shockwaves of pain through Asukazen's body, and he felt his energy waning with every blow. The figure's overwhelming strength was undeniable, and Asukazen found himself trapped in its grasp, unable to break free. Pain surged through him as he felt himself being tossed around like a ragdoll.
He groaned in sheer agony, his body aching and battered. The figure still didn't seem to be putting forth much effort, but Asukazen realized that he was utterly outmatched. No amount of magic or physical strength could overcome this overwhelming force.
The pale being lifted its colossal arm high into the air, and with a swift and powerful motion, it began rotating its arm at an incredible speed. The sheer force and speed of the rotation were nauseating, making Asukazen feel as if his insides were being twisted and turned.
Time seemed to slow down as the figure's arm continued its relentless swing. Asukazen could do nothing but brace himself for the inevitable impact. The wind around him howled as the figure's arm cut through the air with tremendous force.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the three-meter-tall figure released its hold on Asukazen, sending him hurtling through the air with tremendous velocity. The world around him became a blur as he flew through the forest, his body at the mercy of the figure's tremendous strength.
The impact was brutal, as Asukazen crashed against a nearby mountain with bone-shattering force. The collision sent shockwaves of pain through his body, and he gasped for breath, trying to regain his bearings. His vision swam with stars, and his body felt broken and battered.
As he fell towards the forest below, a mix of emotions overwhelmed him. He felt defeated, battered, and broken, but at the same time, a sense of relief washed over him. At least now, there would be no risk of anyone else getting hurt. He had faced this pale figure alone, and he had lost.
Skuld's POV.
Skuld's heart raced as she dashed through the forest, her Chirithy following closely behind. She had heard the battle noises in the distance and knew that Asukazen must be in trouble. But as she ran, she couldn't shake the feeling of confusion. The presence she felt was unlike any Heartless she had encountered before.
Skuld: Chirithy, do you sense that? It's not an ordinary Heartless. (Skuld said, trying to catch her breath.)
[S] Chirithy nodded, looking equally puzzled.
[S] Chirithy: You're right. This presence feels different, but I can't quite place it. It's strong, though, and dangerous.
As Skuld and [S] Chirithy approached the battlefield, their eyes widened in shock at the sight before them. Asukazen lay there, coated in blood, his eyes completely white, and his clothes torn apart from the intense battle. It was a horrifying sight, and Skuld's heart ached with concern for her fellow Keyblade Wielder.
But they could not get closer. The towering figure in the burnt white cloak was still there, slowly making his way towards Asukazen. Skuld could feel the immense power emanating from the figure, and it sent shivers down her spine. She felt a sense of helplessness, unsure of what to do in the face of such overwhelming strength.
[S] Chirithy let out a low growl of warning, but it was clear that the figure was not even paying attention to them. It seemed calm, as if it didn't need to rush or put too much effort into dealing with anything that stood in his way. Skuld's mind raced, trying to think of a way to help her friend, but she couldn't come up with anything.
Asukazen's POV.
Asukazen's white eyes seemed to stare into nothingness, and Skuld couldn't even tell if he was conscious or not. The sight broke her heart, and she desperately wished she could do something... anything...
As the figure slowly approached Asukazen, it grabbed him with its gigantic hand and lifted him effortlessly off the ground. Asukazen's body hung limply in the air like a tattered doll, and Skuld's heart sank at the sight. She wanted to rush to his aid, but her body refused to respond to her commands.
[S] Chirithy could sense her fear and distress, but it, too, was overwhelmed by the sheer presence of the towering figure. Trapped in a state of shock and terror.
The three-meter-tall figure continued to hold Asukazen in its grasp, tilting his grotesque large head as if in contemplation. Skuld and [S] Chirithy could do nothing but watch in horror as the figure seemed to be deciding Asukazen's fate.
The air was heavy with tension, and time seemed to stand still as they awaited the figure's next move. Skuld's heart raced, and her mind was filled with questions and confusion. Who was this figure, and why was it targeting Asukazen? What did it want from him?
In that moment, Skuld felt an overwhelming sense of helplessness. She had come to fight alongside Asukazen today, to be partner on this mission, to collect lux, but now...
The figure's gigantic right hand closed around Asukazen's head like a vise, and Skuld couldn't bear to watch. She screamed out in frustration and terror, her heart aching at the sight of her fellow Keyblade Wielder in such pain.
Her desperation reached its peak, and she could not stand idly by as her fellow Keyblade Wielder was in mortal danger. Ignoring [S] Chirithy's warning, she mustered all her courage and attacked the towering figure, trying to pry Asukazen from his grasp.
But her efforts were in vain. The figure hardly seemed to notice her, and with a powerful swing of his left arm, he sent Skuld flying away, knocking her back against a tree, not only leaving her stunned on the ground, her left arm was completely broken.
As she struggled to get up with her broken limb, she could only watch as the three-meter-tall figure tightened his grip on Asukazen's head. Skuld screamed in desperation, pleading for him to stop, but the figure remained unmoved, his face expressionless.
In the relentless grasp of the towering figure, Asukazen's world narrowed to a singular, excruciating focus. The unyielding pressure around his head was not just physical, it was an all-consuming agony that eclipsed every other sensation. The sounds of his own bones creaking under the immense force were grotesque symphonies to his ears, each note a stark reminder of his impending doom. The pain was unimaginable, radiating through every fiber of his being, threatening to obliterate his consciousness.
Asukazen's thoughts were a chaotic whirlpool, swirling with despair and disbelief.
Asukazen: I deserve this...
he lamented, as waves of pain crashed over him. The thought of his skull being crushed, an image so vivid and terrifying, clawed at the edges of his mind. He felt trapped, not just in the figure's grip, but in the cruel twist of fate that had led him to this moment. His own strength, which he had always relied upon, now seemed like a distant memory, as distant as the hope of escaping this torture. Suddenly the tall figure sensed the powerful presence of two individuals approaching. He turned around to face the newcomers.
Ava and Ira, garbed in their distinctive cloaks and masks, stood with a gravity that seemed to distort the very air around them. Ava, her eyes a piercing gaze behind the fox mask, surveyed the scene with a blend of tactical acuity and deep-seated concern. Her posture, though poised, betrayed an urgency reflecting the direness of the situation.
Ira, embodying the dignity of his blue cloak and unicorn mask, radiated a palpable fury at the sight before him. The agony etched on Asukazen's body, a member of his own Union, sparked a fierce protectiveness in him. His voice, usually measured, now carried an edge sharp enough to cut through the tension.
Ira: Who are you?! What dark purpose drives you to assail one of our own with such cruelty?
The three-meter-tall figure remained silent, his gaze unwavering as he faced the two Union Leaders. The air was heavy with tension as the powerful presences clashed.
The tall figure, silent and inscrutable, faced the Union Leaders with an unsettling calmness, an unspoken challenge hanging in the air.
Asukazen, caught in the throes of unbearable pain, could barely process the arrival of the Foretellers. His vision, clouded by torment, even if he did process that information. His mind, overwhelmed by pain couldn't find the strength to speak or explain the situation.
Ava: Hold on, Asukazen. Your pain ends now. We are here, and we will protect you. Rest, and let us bear this burden.
Ira, meanwhile, remained fixated on the silent adversary, his fists clenched in a silent vow of protection and retribution. His thoughts raced with strategies and concerns, not just for Asukazen's immediate safety, but for the implications of such a brazen attack on such young children.
Meanwhile, Skuld, injured and sidelined, watched the unfolding scene with a mixture of helplessness and despair. Her broken left arm, a stark reminder of her failed attempt to intervene, hung limply by her side. The pain she felt was secondary to the horror she was witnessing alongside her Chirithy.
Ava, acutely aware of Skuld's condition, shot a glance her way, a silent promise of aid and reassurance. The situation was dire, and the Foretellers knew that immediate action was essential to prevent any further harm.
Ava: Look around you - this senseless violence achieves nothing. Release him and let us understand your purpose. We are not your enemies unless you choose to make it so.
The figure, looming like an immovable force, echoed its cryptic phrase again, its voice resonating with an eerie, otherworldly tone.
?: Paradoxum... Heart...
He seemed to view them as a threat and responded by charging towards them, his immense size causing the ground to shake. His intention to attack was clear, and Ava and Ira quickly readied themselves to defend against the colossal force.
Ira: This transgression against the Unions, against the very balance we strive to uphold, will not be tolerated! You face the wrath of the Foretellers now.
Without hesitation, Ava summoned her Keyblade, a pink glow surrounding her as she prepared for battle. Ira, too, summoned his Keyblade, a blue aura enveloping him as he stood firm.
As the figure closed in, Ira moved with surprising agility, dodging the oncoming attack and countering with a swift strike. However, the figure's immense strength and resilience made it difficult to cause any significant damage.
Ava, with a tactician's eye and a warrior's grace, danced around the towering figure. Her movements were a blur, a ballet of agility and precision honed through countless battles.
In a moment of calculated risk, Ava saw her opportunity. She lunged forward, her Keyblade gleaming in the dappled forest light, aiming not to wound but to disarm. With a swift, fluid motion, she targeted the figure's colossal right hand, the one imprisoning Asukazen. Her blade, swift as a flash of light, struck at the joints of the fingers, a strike designed to startle and destabilize rather than to maim.
The effect was immediate. The tall figure's grip, for a moment unyielding and cruel, faltered under the surprise and precision of Ava's strike. The sheer unexpectedness of her tactic forced the figure to reflexively open its right palm. Asukazen's battered body, released from the crushing grip, fell towards the forest floor, a descent that seemed both perilous and, in some strange way, liberating.
Asukazen, still weakened and barely able to move, watched in awe as the Union Leaders fought against the towering figure. He had never seen such power before, and he knew that even in his best condition, he would not have stood a chance against this formidable foe.
But as the battle continued, Asukazen noticed something peculiar. The figure's attacks seemed to be focused solely on the Union Leaders, ignoring him entirely. It was as if he had no interest in Asukazen anymore, having found new adversaries in Ava and Ira.
Asukazen's mind was clouded with pain and exhaustion as he tried to process the situation. He couldn't understand how the Union Leaders knew about the three-meter-tall figure and why they had come to his aid. In his weakened state, he could barely open his eyes or speak, and the world around him seemed to blur and spin.
As Asukazen lay on the forest floor, his gaze caught a glimmer of light descending towards him. It was his own Chirithy, its expression etched with concern despite the harsh words he had uttered the day before.
Asukazen's voice, weak and barely above a whisper, betrayed a hint of frustration and vulnerability.
Asukazen: Why... did you have to bring them here? I... I didn't need...
[A] Chirithy approached, its voice a mixture of worry and exasperation.
[A] Chirithy: I informed them because you were in danger. They're here because of you, you know. Can't you see the gravity of your situation?
Asukazen: I never asked for rescue... I can handle things...
The Dream Eater was taken aback by Asukazen's response.
[A] Chirithy: Why must you always be this obstinate? It's not just about you being embarrassed or not. It's about accepting help when you need it.
Asukazen's response was a murmur, a mix of defiance and a thinly-veiled plea for understanding.
Asukazen: You're misunderstanding me...The Chirithy's expression softened, though it still seemed troubled.
[A] Chirithy: It's not about what I think. Why can't you just admit you need help sometimes? It doesn't diminish you.
Asukazen's eyes, half-open, revealed a flicker of internal struggle.
Asukazen: Your foolish concern... it's misplaced. I'm... not worth the effort.
His voice was a whisper, a stark contrast to his usual confident demeanor. The Dream Eater paused, its earlier resolve giving way to a sense of resignation.
As [S] Chirithy approached Asukazen's critical state, it couldn't help but mock this human for his prideful facade.
[S] Chirithy: Not quite the outcome you envisioned, I presume? Asukazen, so full of pride and arrogance. Not so impressive now, are you?
Asukazen, despite his battered state, managed to direct a faint, defiant gaze towards [S] Chirithy.
Asukazen: Mocking me... at a time like this? (he rasped, his voice barely audible.)
[S] Chirithy scoffed, not showing an ounce of concern.
[S] Chirithy: Impressive performance you've got there. (the Chirithy sneered.) Getting your butt handed to you by that pale giant . Quite the spectacle, I must say.
[A] Chirithy glared at [S] Chirithy, not appreciating the sarcasm.
[A] Chirithy: He's in bad shape. Can't you see that? This is serious!
[S] Chirithy rolled its blue eyes.
[S] Chirithy: Oh please, I've seen better. You're supposed to be his Chirithy, yet you let him get into this mess in the first place. What kind of guide are you?
Skuld, who had recovered from the earlier attack, approached Asukazen, concern etched on her face.
Skuld: Asukazen, are you alright? (she asked, kneeling beside him.)
Asukazen grimaced in pain as he tried to respond.
Asukazen: I don't know... it appeared in the Unicornis Union's headquarter... in the toilets. It wasn't seen by anyone else... just me and Chirithy. (he explained, his voice weak.)
Skuld's brow furrowed in confusion.
Skuld: In the toilets?! Seriously? That's odd. We need to figure out who or what that thing is and why it's after you.
Meanwhile, Ava and Ira continued their battle with the three-meter-tall figure. The powerful attacks of the Foretellers clashed with the immense strength of the cloaked entity. The forest around them trembled with the force of their blows. Their attacks, a blend of tactical prowess and raw power, echoed through the forest, each strike resonating with the intent to subdue the formidable adversary.
The tall figure seemed initially indifferent to their offensive. However, as the Foretellers synchronized their efforts, a critical hit was landed. Ava's cunning maneuvering and Ira's calculated strikes converged, creating a significant wound in the figure's defenses.
Asukazen, observing from a distance, was taken aback by the sudden shift in the battle. The tall figure, previously an embodiment of invincibility, now showed a moment of vulnerability. A hole, aglow with particles of light, appeared on its chest, a visible sign of the Foretellers' impact. This unexpected development suggested a turning point in the confrontation.
The figure, seemingly caught off guard by this development, paused momentarily. In that brief instance, there was a perceptible change in its demeanor. Then, with a swift motion, it retreated, vanishing into the sky with an agility that belied its size.
Ira, watching the figure's escape, exhibited a brief flash of irritation. However, he quickly composed himself, mindful of the situation and his role as a leader. His reaction was a measured response, avoiding the impulsive tendencies of Gula.
After the confrontation, Skuld, recovering from the earlier attack, steadied herself and approached Asukazen. Her curiosity was evident as she questioned him about the encounter.
Skuld: That person... do you have any idea who or what it was?
Asukazen, still struggling to regain his composure, replied with a tone of uncertainty.
Asukazen: I'm as clueless... as you are about its identity or... motives. But something tells me that won't be... the last of him.
[S] Chirithy: Well, aren't you the observant one. (he said sarcastically.)
Skuld nodded in agreement.
Skuld: We need to be careful. Whatever that thing was, it's... too dangerous, and it won't stop until it gets what it wants.
Asukazen then attempted to stand, his legs failing him, leading to another fall. Skuld rushed to his side, helping him up.
At this moment, Ira and Ava joined them, their faces marked with worry.
Ira: Do you have any information on that assailant? (he inquired)
Asukazen, gathering his thoughts, answered.
Asukazen: Its name is unknown to me. It referred to me as a 'Paradoxum' and demanded my heart.
Ira's frown deepened as he processed this information, feeling a weight of responsibility.
Ira: You should rest back at Daybreak Town. (he said firmly) We'll investigate this further.
Asukazen offered a faint nod of agreement.
Asukazen: It somehow infiltrated Unicornis headquarters. It might be targeting Blizzard as well, he conjectured, his voice barely above a whisper.
Upon hearing this, Ira's concern escalated, realizing the potential breach in security at Daybreak Town, affecting not just Unicornis but all the Unions. The gravity of the situation was clear, they had narrowly avoided a tragedy, and it was imperative to fortify their defenses and ensure the safety of all their members.
Master Ava, with a focused expression, began to weave her healing magic around Asukazen. A soft, luminescent aura surrounded him, its light tender and soothing. Under the influence of her spell, Asukazen's injuries started to mend gradually, the visible wounds knitting together as if guided by an unseen hand. The grimace of pain on his face eased, replaced by a look of relief as the healing energies worked to alleviate his suffering.
Skuld, standing nearby, watched this process with a mix of admiration and concern. Once the initial phase of healing was complete, she stepped forward, offering her support to Asukazen as he tried to stand.
Ava: Skuld, remember, even the most potent healing magic can't mend all wounds instantly. It's important he rests.
Skuld nodded, understanding the limits of magical healing.
Ava: Can you assist Asukazen to his home? Nightfall is approaching, and he'll need a safe space to recover fully.
Skuld: Of course, I'll make sure he gets there safely.
With that, Ira and Ava, the two Foretellers, employed their teleportation magic. In a swirl of light and energy, they, along with Skuld and Asukazen, were instantly transported back to Union headquarters. They materialized in the center of the Unicornis Union near the fountain, a familiar and comforting sight.
Skuld, with a sense of urgency, helped Asukazen towards his house. Each step was measured, ensuring his comfort and safety. Asukazen, overwhelmed by pain and the effects of the healing magic, remained silent throughout, the ordeal evident in his strained expression.
15 Minutes later.
Upon reaching his house, Skuld carefully assisted him upstairs to his bed. She arranged him as comfortably as possible, ensuring that he was settled for the night.
Skuld: Rest well, Asukazen. (Skuld said with concern in her voice.)
After ensuring Asukazen was comfortably resting, Skuld quietly exited his house, leaving him in the company of his loyal yet exasperated Chirithy. The Dream Eater stood near the bed on the wooden floor, its expression a mix of concern and frustration.
[A] Chirithy: Your stubbornness could have been your end. You should have reached out to Foreteller Ira for help.
Asukazen remained silent, avoiding eye contact with his Chirithy. He was too prideful to admit that he was wrong or that he needed help. His demeanor still remained unchanged
The Chirithy looked at Asukazen, feeling both concerned and frustrated by his stubbornness.
[A] Chirithy: You may think that you're alone and that no one else would be hurt, but you're wrong. If you had perished, I would have perished too. (the Chirithy said in a serious tone.)
Asukazen was taken aback by this revelation. In his previous reality, his previous Chirithy had never mentioned this connection between them. He felt conflicted, realizing that he had put this Chirithy in danger without even knowing it.
[A] Chirithy: You didn't know this? (the Chirithy asked, surprised that Asukazen was unaware of this crucial connection) Our fates are intertwined. Chirithy's are created and tied to the hearts of their Keyblade Wielders. If you had perished, I would have vanished too, you can't just throw away your life like that. the Chirithy explained.
Despite the new information, Asukazen remained firm on his words.
Asukazen: I could have handled it myself. Even in that state, I was... holding my own.
The Chirithy couldn't believe Asukazen's stubbornness and refusal to admit defeat.
[A] Chirithy: Think about what happened! All of your bones were broken! You were in no condition to face that being alone. (the Chirithy scolded, feeling exasperated by Asukazen's sheer stubbornness.)
The Dream Eater couldn't help but facepalm in embarrassment at his Keyblade Wielder's sheer stupidity. It was frustrating to see Asukazen deny the reality of the situation and put himself in harm's way unnecessarily.
[A] Chirithy: This is maddening!. (it muttered, frustrated) I can't believe how stubborn you are. You almost got yourself killed, and you're still refusing to accept help. (the Chirithy said, shaking its large rounded head in disbelief.) If it weren't for Foreteller Ira and Ava, you wouldn't be here right now!
The [A] Chirithy watched Asukazen lying on his bed, still recovering from his injuries. The Dream Eater reflected on the harsh words Asukazen had uttered the day before, understanding that they were likely meant as a misguided form of protection.
[A] Chirithy: Listen, your attempt to push me away yesterday was cruel. Those words hurt me deeply. (the Chirithy said, its eyes fixed on its Keyblade Wielder.)
Taking a deep breath, the Chirithy spoke with a persuasive tone.
[A] Chirithy: I know you were trying to keep me away from harm, but using cruel words to push me away isn't the right way to do it. We're partners, and we face must face the future together. I won't abandon you, even if you try to push me away. But you have to understand that you can't handle everything on your own. It's not a sign of weakness to ask for help when you need it.
Asukazen: Tsk... You're making a big deal out of nothing. I'm fine, just need... some rest. And you... you shouldn't have bothered... coming back. I told you, I don't need... anyone.
The Chirithy's frustration peaked. It was one thing to be a guide of a wielder, but another to witness such stubborn refusal of help.
[A] Chirithy: You really are impossible! (it muttered)