[A] Chirithy: Are you feeling okay? That training looked intense.
Asukazen, maintaining his demeanor, replied.
Asukazen: I'm fine. It's just part of getting stronger.
[A] Chirithy: You don't have to push yourself so hard all the time. It's okay to take breaks and ask for help when you need it.
Asukazen: I don't need help. I can handle things on my own.
[A] Chirithy: I know you like to be independent, but sometimes it's good to rely on others too. I'm here to support you, you know?
As they were having this conversation, Asukazen felt a presence approaching from behind. He turned around to see a young girl, older than his current age perhaps, with long black hair and brown eyes. It was clear from her attire that she was also a Keyblade Wielder and a member of the Unicornis Union.
Skuld: Hey, I saw you training here. You're new, right? I'm Skuld.
Beside Skuld stood her own Chirithy, who nodded in greeting to Asukazen's Chirithy.
[S] Chirithy: Hello.
[A] Chirithy: (trying to be friendly) I'm Chirithy, nice to meet you.
[S] Chirithy: (unenthusiastically) Yeah, whatever. I'm Chirithy. Let's get this over with.
The Chirithies indeed greeted each others, but there was a noticeable difference in their interactions. While [A] Chirithy attempted to be friendly and greet [S] Chirithy as a friendly manner, [S] Chirithy remained distant and only regarded [A] Chirithy as another Chirithy, emphasizing the vast number of Dream Eaters.
Skuld smiled apologetically at the exchange between the two Chirithies.
Skuld: Sorry about that. my Chirithy can be a bit bold sometimes.
Asukazen sensed the tension, but chose not to delve into it. Instead, he focused on Skuld.
Skuld: (looking at Asukazen) I've been looking for a partner for a mission tomorrow, and I sensed your presence. You have potential, and I think we could make a good team.
Asukazen hesitated for a moment, unsure about partnering up with someone else. He was used to handling things on his own and didn't know how he felt about teaming up with someone he just met.
Asukazen: (reservedly) I... I usually train alone.
Skuld: I understand, but sometimes, having a partner can be beneficial. We can complement each other's strengths and weaknesses.
[A] Chirithy: (encouragingly) It might be a good idea to work together, Asukazen.
[S] Chirithy: (sarcastically) Oh, joy. Teamwork. Just great.
[A] Chirithy: (to [S] Chirithy) Come on, we can be friends too! It'll be fun.
[S] Chirithy: (disinterested) I doubt it.
[A] Chirithy: But maybe we could join forces!
[S] Chirithy: (indifferent) Not interested. My loyalty lies with Skuld, and that's it.
Skuld smiled again, seemingly used to [S] Chirithy's grumpy demeanor.
Skuld: Well, think about it. We'll be meeting at sunrise tomorrow for the mission. Let me know if you change your mind.
[A] Chirithy: Huh, he is certainly... different. Seems like a real grump. I wonder why he so indifferent and uninterested in forming a bound. Well, I guess not all Chirithies are meant to get along.
Asukazen started to contemplate Skuld's offer, thinking about how they could potentially work together in combat. He knew that his magic was powerful and could support her Keyblade strikes, allowing him to avoid using his own Keyblade. As he weighed the possibilities, [A] Chirithy was surprised that Asukazen, who was usually so reserved and independent, was even considering teaming up with someone else.
[A] Chirithy: (in his mind) Wow, he's actually considering it? That's... unexpected. Asukazen has always been so focused on doing things his own way, but maybe he sees the benefits of having a partner in this world. Skuld does seem like a capable Keyblade Wielder.
[A] Chirithy: (speaking up) Asukazen, are you considering working with Skuld?
Asukazen: (in his reserved tone) I'm considering it.
[A] Chirithy: (surprised) Considering it? You mean you're actually willing to team up with someone else? that great!
However, the Chirithy's excitement was short-lived as it slowly realized Asukazen's true intentions. The Dream Eater felt a sense of disappointment as it dawned on him that Asukazen was only interested in using Skuld to achieve his own goal of not using his Keyblade.
[A] Chirithy: (in his mind, with a sigh) Of course. He's just using Skuld to avoid using his Keyblade. Typical Asukazen, always finding a way to get what he wants. I thought maybe he was opening up to the idea of teamwork, but it's clear he's only interested in enforcing his own goals.
[A] Chirithy: (disappointed) You're just using this as an opportunity to avoid using your Keyblade, aren't you?
Asukazen: (stubbornly) I've made my decision, and I won't change my mind.
His mind was then filled with the memories of the harrowing events that had unfolded two weeks ago.
Asukazen: (in his mind) The Master of Masters... He came out of nowhere and saved us. But how did he do it? How did he break the curse?
The memories of the near-death experience in his Crystalbound state were still vivid in his mind. He knew that him and Blizzard should have been erased from existence because of the stab wound of the dark keyblades of William and Xalvador in the back, but somehow, the Master of Masters had intervened at the last second, granting them another chance at life.
Asukazen: (in his mind) We should be dead... but he saved us. Why? What does he see in us? And what does he want from us in return?
The mysteries surrounding the Master of Masters and his intentions left Asukazen with many questions. He felt a mix of gratitude for being saved and suspicion about the black hooded figure's motives.
Asukazen: (in his mind) I need to find out more about this Master of Masters. If he saved us, there must be a reason behind it. But I can't let my guard down. There's no such thing as a free favor in this world.
[A] Chirithy: (confused) Asukazen?
Asukazen: It's nothing for you to worry about. Just some old memories and things I need to figure out.
[A] Chirithy: (concerned) But Asukazen, if it's bothering you, maybe you should talk about it. I'm here to listen and support you.
Asukazen: (dismissively) I don't need to talk about it. It's in the past, and it's my bur-
His senses sharpened as he suddendly felt a strange presence, which cut him mid-sentence. He felt something that sent a chill down his spine. He looked towards the direction of the private toilets upstairs in the headquarter of the Unicornis Union's training ground.
Ignoring the curious glances from other young Keyblade wielders training around him, Asukazen made his way towards the stairs leading to the upper floor. [A] Chirithy followed closely behind, its tiny legs moving swiftly to keep up him.
[A] Chirithy: (curious) Where are you going? Why the toilets?
Asukazen: I don't know yet, but there's something up there. I need to check it out.
The Chirithy's confusion only deepened, but it knew better than to question Asukazen further. He had always been closed off about his thoughts and feelings, and the Chirithy had learned not to pry too much.
[A] Chirithy: (in his mind) What could he be sensing? Is it another Keyblade wielder?
He cautiously approached the private toilets for males, his senses on high alert. The air seemed to thicken with tension, and he couldn't shake off the feeling of being observed. As he looked around, he noticed nothing out of the ordinary at first.
Asukazen: (to himself) Am I just being paranoid? Or is there really something here?
Just as he was about to turn and leave, he felt a huge hand on his shoulder, causing him to recoil in shock. He stumbled backward and fell to the floor, his heart pounding with fear and uncertainty. Beside him, [A] Chirithy was equally startled, feeling an overwhelming aura emanating from the mysterious person standing before them.
Asukazen: (shocked) Wha-What?
Hesitating for a moment, Asukazen finally mustered the courage to turn around to look up. Standing before him was a towering figure, three meters tall, entirely covered in a white cloak. The man's skin was completely pale white, making his presence even more eerie. Asukazen and his Chirithy both fell in shock, unable to comprehend what they were witnessing.
Asukazen: (in disbelief) This can't be real... What is this thing?
The mysterious person remained silent, still with his eyes closed, but his mere presence sent chills down Asukazen's spine. The top of the man's head was covered by the thick white cloak, making it impossible for Asukazen to see his face or any distinguishing features.
[A] Chirithy, feeling a mix of fear and protectiveness, tried to defend Asukazen but was quickly overcome by fear, retreating behind Asukazen's head. He could feel the Dream Eater's soft paws on his head, providing a slight sense of comfort, but both of them knew that they were facing something beyond their understanding.
[A] Chirithy: (nervously) Asuka-Asukazen, who is this person? He's... he's not a member of the Unions, is he?
Asukazen: (still shocked) I don't know! I've never seen anyone like him before.
His mind raced, and he couldn't shake off the feeling that this person was incredibly powerful and dangerous. He desperately tried to recall if he had encountered someone like this before. In his panic, he blurted out a question.
Asukazen: Are you a Nobody?! Another member of Organization 14th?
[A] Chirithy looked at Asukazen with confusion, not understanding the reference.
[A] Chirithy: What are you talking about, Asukazen? I don't know what you mean!
But the mysterious man remained silent, his eyes still closed, and the barrier magic around the toilets prevented any sounds from escaping. Asukazen felt a sense of helplessness and fear, unsure of what this person's intentions were or how to defend himself.
He then felt a light blue aura pouring down from the mysterious, muscular figure before him. The sheer power emanating from the person was overwhelming, and Asukazen couldn't help but feel a mix of fear and intrigue. The man's arms and hands were visible, appearing incredibly wide and strong. Asukazen realized that this person could had easily crushed his head like a watermelon if he chose to, but instead, he remained still, observing Asukazen's reaction.
In a slow and deliberate motion, the mysterious figure reached into his pocket and pulled out a strange device resembling a motion detector. He pointed it at Asukazen, scanning him with it. The scanner emitted a loud noise and glowed blue, adding to the unsettling atmosphere.
Asukazen's heart pounded in his chest as he tried to comprehend what was happening. He couldn't understand the purpose of the scanner or why this person was interested in him. The figure then returned the device to his pocket, and in a voice that sounded alien-like and beyond Asukazen and the Dream Eater's understanding, he spoke.
Tall Figure: (speaking in a slothful tone) Paradoxum... Surrender your heart... One day...
Asukazen struggled to comprehend the meaning behind the enigmatic words. Who or what was this person, and why was he referring to Asukazen as a 'Paradoxum?' And what did he mean by surrendering his heart? The confusion and fear continued to grip him, leaving him with more questions than answers.
Before he could even process what was happening, a blinding flash of white light engulfed the private toilets for males, and when the light faded, the mysterious figure was gone. Asukazen was left stunned and speechless, unable to make sense of the encounter.
The Dream Eater, too, was shaken by the encounter, its large rounded head tilting in confusion and concern. It had never witnessed such an otherworldly presence before, and the encounter had left it with a sense of unease and apprehension.
[A] Chirithy: (in a hushed voice) What... what was that, Asukazen? Who was he? And what did he mean by 'Paradoxum' and 'surrender your heart?'
[A] Chirithy: (urgently) We-We need to warn the Foretellers about this! It's urgent!
Asukazen: (in a cold tone) Warn the Foretellers? Do you really think that would end well? That person could have easily eliminated both of us if he wanted to. What do you think would happen if we go running to the others?
[A] Chirithy: (concerned) But we can't just ignore this! He threatened you, and who knows what his intentions are? We have to tell someone!
Asukazen: (coldly) Tsk... This is pointless, beside, if I were to disappear, no one would miss me.
Asukazen's words cut like ice. The Chirithy recoiled in shock at Asukazen's words, rendered speechless and saddened by the cruelty in his tone. It was clear that Asukazen had little regard for his own life and future, and the Dream Eater was deeply hurt by the indifference he showed towards their well-being.
Asukazen: This conversation is over. No one will be warned.
With that, he turned away, leaving the private toilets and heading back to the training ground. The Chirithy followed behind, his heart heavy with worry and concern for his reserved and enigmatic Keyblade wielder.
Asukazen's steps were heavy and burdened as he walked back into the training ground of the Unicornis Union's headquarters. His somber expression revealed the turmoil within him. He ground his teeth in frustration, his emotions conflicted. On one hand, he knew he had hurt the Chirithy with his callous words, and the guilt weighed heavily on him. On the other hand, he couldn't afford to form any emotional attachments, not after the heartaches he had endured in his own reality.
He clenched his fists, his emotions swirling inside him. He knew he had to be strong. He had to keep his distance, no matter how difficult it was.
Asukazen: (in his mind) You idiot. Why do you have to push everyone away? You know it's for your own good, but why does it hurt so much? You can't afford to make any connections, not after what happened before, not after what you have done to Blizzard.
He continued to train on the dummies, channeling his frustration and anger into his attacks. But despite his efforts to focus on his training, the weight of his actions and his emotional turmoil weighed heavily on him.
Asukazen: (in his mind) Why can't I just be like everyone else? Why do I have to be so closed off and distant? It's for the best, right? To protect myself and others.
The more he thought about it, the more conflicted he felt. He knew that his behavior was a defense mechanism, a way to shield himself from pain and vulnerability. But at the same time, he couldn't help but wonder if he was pushing away the possibility of genuine connections and friendships.
Asukazen: (in his mind) But what if I'm wrong? What if there's more to life than just being cold and alone? What if I'm missing out on something important?
The self-doubt gnawed at him, but he couldn't bring himself to let down his guard. The emotional trauma from his past was too great, and he was blinded by it, unable to see beyond the walls he had built around himself.
Asukazen: (in his mind) No! I can't afford to be weak. I won't let anyone get close and hurt me again. I have to stay on this path, no matter how much it hurts.
He continued his training on the artificial dummies, channeling his frustration and turmoil into the powerful thunder and fire magic he unleashed upon them. As he struck the dummies with his lightning and fire balls, he noticed a change in himself. The green aura that had been absent for some time was slowly returning, flowing down from his arms and hands.
Asukazen: (in his mind) My green aura... it's coming back. This body is finally starting to adapt.
The other Keyblade Wielders in the training ground watched in awe as Asukazen's powers grew stronger with each passing moment. They had never seen someone wield magic with such intensity, especially without using a Keyblade.
Child Keyblade Wielder 3: Wow, look at him go! He's not even using his Keyblade!
Child Keyblade Wielder 5: Yeah, he's just using magic, and it's so powerful!
Asukazen remained focused on his training, ignoring the attention he was drawing from the other children.
Asukazen: (in his mind) I can do this! I don't need my Keyblades. I can be strong on my own.
His green aura continued to grow stronger as he pushed himself further, honing his control over his elemental magic. With each powerful strike, he felt a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, knowing that he was making progress.
Asukazen: (in his mind) You can't let anyone see your weakness. Keep it together!
He gritted his teeth, trying to hold back the tears that threatened to escape. He was frustrated with himself for feeling this way, for being unable to open up to others and form connections. But he knew he couldn't afford to be weak, not now, not ever.
Asukazen: (in a scorn tone) Don't you dare... You chose this path! And you can't afford to be a crybaby!
The other Keyblade Wielder children who were observing him could sense the intensity of his power. They were surprised that he had not resorted to using his Keyblade yet, unlike most of them.
5 Minutes Later.
Asukazen's mind was consumed with thoughts of the mysterious three-meter-tall figure. The encounter in the private toilets had left him shaken and uncertain of what would happen next. The warning to surrender his heart hung over him like a dark cloud, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of danger.
Asukazen: (in his mind) One day to surrender my heart... What does that mean? Will he attack me?
The weight of the situation bore down on him heavily, and he knew that he couldn't afford to involve anyone else in this dangerous affair. He had to handle it alone, for the sake of both Skuld and the others Keyblade Wielders. They didn't deserve to be caught up in whatever fate awaited him.
Asukazen's thoughts turned to Blizzard, his former ally and fellow Keyblade Wielder. He knew that Blizzard would be more than willing to help if he asked, but he couldn't bring himself to burden him with his troubles. He had already caused enough pain and hurt to him in the past, and he didn't want to risk putting him in danger again.
Asukazen: (in his mind) This is my burden to bear... I can't drag Blizzard into this anymore. He deserves a better companion than the wretched being that I am.
The anxiety in his heart pulsed stronger with each passing moment. He was well aware that he might be walking into a perilous situation, one that could cost him his life.
Asukazen: (in his mind) I'll figure this out. I won't let anyone else get hurt because of me. Skuld... she might be part of my plan. I can't do this alone, but I'll make sure she's safe.
1 Hour and 53 Minutes Later.
Asukazen's body was fatigued and his breaths were heavy as he concluded his two-hour training session. His fingers trembled from the strain of wielding magic continuously, and his legs felt weak from the intense workout. Despite his exhaustion, he knew he had to press on and take action. He couldn't afford to waste any time.
Asukazen: (in his mind) I need to prepare myself... I have to make the best use of this time.
The other Keyblade Wielder children watched him with curiosity and admiration. They had witnessed his relentless training for two hours, using fire and thunder magic without the aid of his Keyblade. They couldn't help but be impressed by his dedication.
Asukazen then pushed past the exhaustion and found the strength to stand up. He knew that knowledge was his most valuable weapon, and he needed to learn as much as he could to face the looming threat.
Entering the Grand Library, Asukazen felt a sense of calm wash over him. The familiar scent of old books and parchment filled the air, and the room welcomed him like an old friend. He walked quietly through the aisles, searching for any books or scrolls that could teach him how to make Potions and Mana Potions.
Asukazen: (muttering to himself) I need to be prepared... If I can make my own Potions and Mana Potions, it might give me an edge in the confrontation to come.
He carefully picked up a few ancient tomes and started reading, absorbing the knowledge from the pages. Time seemed to slip away as he delved deeper into the world of alchemy and potion-making. He learned about the ingredients needed, the proper techniques, and the careful balance required to create potent Potions and Mana Potions.
Time seemed to pass quickly as he delved into his research, his exhaustion momentarily forgotten in the pursuit of knowledge. But the light blue aura that he had sensed earlier continued to linger in the back of his mind, a constant reminder of the danger that awaited him.
Asukazen: (in his mind) I don't stand a chance... I felt that aura, and it was overwhelming. Is he some kind of Angel of Death, sent to punish me?
The thought of facing such a powerful and mysterious foe scared him. He knew that he might not survive this encounter, and the anxiety gnawed at his heart. But he also knew that he couldn't let fear dictate his actions. If he was going to face his fate, he wanted to do it on his own terms, away from everyone else.
Asukazen: (in his mind) I have to be ready...
The anxiety never left him, but he pushed it aside. He knew that his time was limited, and he had to make every second count. He needed to face it head-on, even if it meant walking the path of uncertainty and possible doom.
3 Hours Later.
He sat alone in the quiet corners of the Grand Library, surrounded by a sea of knowledge and ancient tomes. He had spent hours poring over the books, learning about potions, remedies, and various magical techniques. The weight of his impending fate still loomed over him, but he felt a sense of relief knowing that the Chirithy tasked to him was no longer with him.
Asukazen: (softly) It's gone... I guess my cold words made it leave.
He let out a faint smile, feeling a mixture of emotions. On one hand, he was relieved that he no longer had to worry about anyone else getting hurt because of him. This Chirithy was free from any potential danger. On the other hand, he felt a sense of loneliness.
Asukazen: (in his mind) It's for the best... I can't let anyone else suffer because of me.
He couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude that this Chirithy wouldn't be involved.
At Night.
The night air was cool as Asukazen left the headquarter of the Unicornis Union's and made his way back to his personal house. The journey felt long, and the weight of his thoughts seemed to grow with each step. The encounter with the mysterious figure and the uncertainty of what awaited him loomed over him like a dark cloud.
Asukazen's personal house was a small, modest dwelling, but it offered him a sense of solitude and safety. As he entered, he felt a somber calm wash over him. He knew that tomorrow might be his last day, but for now, he had a moment of respite.
Sitting alone in the library, Asukazen took a deep breath and closed his eyes. He needed to find some semblance of peace within himself, to gather his thoughts and prepare for what was to come. The books he had read in the Grand Library still swirled in his mind, the knowledge he had gained, the spells he had learned.
Asukazen: (in his mind) I'll do what I can to survive... I'll use every bit of knowledge and power I have. But I can't afford to hope for anything beyond that.
His mind was a tumultuous sea of questions and doubts as he laid down to sleep. The encounter with the mysterious figure had left him feeling vulnerable and uncertain about his own existence. The term 'Paradoxum' echoed in his thoughts, and he couldn't shake the feeling that this being's presence was connected to him somehow.
As he drifted off to sleep, his dreams were plagued with anxiety and nightmares. Without the comforting presence of his Chirithy to eat away the bad dreams, Asukazen's mind was left to grapple with its own fears and insecurities. He found himself trapped in a maze of dark corridors, each path leading to a different unsettling scene from his past.
In his dream, the tall, muscular figure in the white cloak loomed over him, its eyes closed and its presence emanating an eerie sense of power. Asukazen felt small and insignificant in comparison, like a mere speck in the vastness of existence.
The dream felt endless, a never-ending loop of fear and despair. His heart pounded in his chest, tonight, he had to face these nightmares alone.
In the Morning.
In the morning, Asukazen woke up with a start, his body covered in a thin layer of cold sweat. His heart was still racing, and the anxiety from his dreams lingered like a heavy cloud. He knew that he couldn't let this fear consume him, that he had to find a way to face the looming threat and the unsettling questions about his own existence.
He then set to work in the small makeshift laboratory he had created within one of the empty rooms. The room was dimly lit, with rays of morning sunlight seeping through the curtains. Asukazen carefully laid out the materials he had gathered for alchemy, his mind focused on the task at hand.
He began the process of combining different ingredients, measuring and mixing with precision. Each step was deliberate, and he followed the instructions he had read in the books from the Grand Library. The alchemical process was both intricate and delicate.
As the morning progressed, he finished his work and surveyed the potions he had created. With a sense of accomplishment, he placed them in a small satchel he had prepared. Asukazen knew that these potions might be his lifeline in the next few hour.
He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. He didn't know what the future held, whether it meant facing his end or unraveling the mysteries surrounding his existence. But he was ready to face it, even if it meant venturing into the unknown alone.
With the satchel of potions by his side, he left the room and made his way back to the training ground. Skuld would be waiting for him, and he needed to be prepared for whatever that tall figure had in store for him.
In that moment, he felt a deep sense of loneliness. He was facing an enemy he didn't understand, with the uncertainty of what the future held. He knew he couldn't run from it, and he couldn't deny the possibility of his own demise.
After finishing the preparations, he looked at his reflection in the mirror, a tired and haunted expression staring back at him. If this was to be the last image he would remember before facing whatever awaited him, he couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. But he quickly pushed those emotions away, refusing to allow himself to be affected by sentimentality.