Chapter 75: Bonding before the storm
"Let me down, I suppose!"
"Aw, come on Beako! I've missed you!"
"You liar! Put me down!"
Sora and Garfiel both managed to hear this as they reach the entrance into the Shudraq camp, seeing Subaru carrying Beatrice proudly while the loli spirit was trying to land a kick on him. While that was going on, Otto turned towards Garfiel and Sora's direction.
"Sora-san. It's good to see you."
"Good to see you too, Otto. How have you been?"
"Good. Never thought you and Subaru-san would end up in the Vollachia Empire."
"Yeah..." Sora said as he rubbed his head, unsure on how to respond to Otto's comment.
"Well, we're all here together now. So what's th'plan, master?" Garfiel asked as he patted the Keyblade Master's back. Sora looked at Garfiel and was about to answer until they three of them heard Subaru yell out an "ouch", catching their attention.
"That's what you get for leaving Betty alone, in fact!"
".it's not my fault."
"I don't care!"
Beatrice continues to hit Subaru though these punches aren't as hard as the kick she gave to him. Sora, Otto, and Garfiel chuckled as they saw the interaction before noticing Naoko and Kenichi approaching them.
"Kenichi-san. Naoko-chan. Good to see you two are okay." Otto said.
"Good to see you too, Otto-kun." Naoko said, appreciating the concern from the merchant.
"Yea, good t'see ya again...m-mom...d-dad..." Garfiel said reluctantly, trying to still get accustomed to calling his adopted parents as mom and dad. Kenichi patted Garfiel on the head while saying,
"No need to force yourself. We are just glad you are okay, Garf."
Garfiel just stood silent as he let his adopted dad mess with his hair for a bit. Otto and Sora both saw this as wholesome. Their focus would soon shift when a familiar voice said,
"Sora."
"Huh?"
Sora quickly turned towards the voice to see that it was someone he hadn't seen in over a year.
"C-Cloud?" The keyblade master said hesitantly. The young man smiled as he didn't think he would see Sora once again. There was a moment of silence before Sora just charged at Cloud to give him a hug, shocking Otto, Garfiel, Kenichi, and Naoko. Cloud was surprised by this but he allowed it, seeing that the keyblade master needs this.
"It's good to see you too. I've heard that you've been here for a while."
"Yeah. Over a year now."
Cloud was surprised by this, he didn't think the keyblade master would stay that long in a singular world. Though this world was a lot different than the others.
"Well then, we have a lot of catching up to do."
"Yeah. But first you should know that—"
"The Organization is here. I know."
"No, well yes that but Sephiroth—"
"I know. He is here too. I barely escaped our previous encounter."
Sora crossed his arms as he heard this, seeing that Cloud must have had quite the run in with Sephiroth.
"Sorry. I wanted to stop him from trying to hurt you and—"
"It's okay. I was going to go looking for him anyway. Well, I still need to look for him. He can't stay alive or more people will suffer."
"I understand." Sora said calmly, understanding that Sephiroth needs to be stopped by Cloud just like he needs to be the one to take down the Organization. Just like it seemed that the conversation was over, Cloud added a sentence that surprised the boy.
"After this is done, we could have our rematch you wanted."
"huh?" Sora paused for a second, trying to think what Cloud meant by that until he remembered. A rematch he asked during Hercules's world after having defeated Cerberus. He couldn't help but smile at his friend. "Sure! Just remember, no dark powers involved."
"Haha. I know."
The two laughed at this since it had been so long since Sora had proposed that rematch, back when he was still learning how to use the keyblade. As they were laughing on this fact, Subaru approached the two with his left hand holding his bruised cheek her received from Beatrice while holding her hand with his right hand.
"What happened to you?" Cloud questioned Subaru.
"It's nothing." Subaru response in a calm manner, which caused Beatrice to answer the question properly.
"It's what he gets for leaving Betty all alone."
"I said I'm sorry Beako."
"Hmph." Beatrice looked away with an angry facial expression though she kept holding Subaru's hand, alerting the two keyblade wielders and the young man that she isn't too mad with her contractor now.
"Anyway...I assume you are a friend of M—Sora."
"Yes. The name's Cloud."
"Cloud. Interesting name. My name is Natsuki Subaru! A fellow Keyblade Wielder."
"Interesting. So you were also chosen by the keyblade?"
"Yes!" Subaru said proudly. Cloud took a moment to inspect Subaru's attire and posture, trying to get a read on him. After a moment, he closed his eyes as he said,
"You have a long way to go if you wish to even reach our realm of strength...but you have potential."
"You really think so?"
"Yeah. You have a strong desire to protect those you care about and you seem to have a slight balance between light and darkness. So long as you are able to keep that balanced and controlled, you'll grow strong."
Subaru wasn't sure on how to respond except bowing with respect towards Cloud. The young man was surprised by this, prompting him to turn his attention towards Sora.
"You trained Subaru, didn't you?"
"Yes." Sora said while also nodding.
"Figured. You would do something like that. Helping others."
"You make it sound like it's a bad thing." Subaru said with a bit of skeptical in his part. Cloud just closed his eyes as he responded to what Subaru had said,
"It's not. Helping others is always a good thing when done for the right reasons."
Subaru nodded at this statement, knowing that Sora is the embodiment of good. Before anything more could be said, Theresia approached the three of them.
"Hello there, I hope I'm not interrupting anything important."
"You are not, Theresia. What's on your mind?" Cloud responded respectfully.
"Yorna and Olbart were asking if they could speak with the keyblade wielder."
"Which one?" Sora and Subaru both asked. Theresia was caught off guard by this before smiling a tad bit confused.
"S-Sorry about that."
"It's fine, they are probably referring to Sora." Subaru said before turning towards his parents direction, wanting to go speak with them. "Pardon me."
He bows to the three people before going towards his parents location with Beatrice by his side. As Subaru and Beatrice left, Cloud couldn't help but say,
"He should be careful."
"How come?" Sora asked curiously.
"Despite having a good heart, he seems to be struggling with something."
"...maybe." Sora said hesitantly since he is unsure if Cloud is referring to something like Return by death, how Subaru can't speak of it to anybody except him for now. Cloud noticed that something was bothering the keyblade master, prompting him to ask,
"You okay?"
"...yeah. I'm fine. Let's go talk to this Yorna and Olbart."
As Sora says this, he was about to follow Theresia until someone had said in a question,
"Mother...?"
Theresia paused herself as she recognized the voice, prompting her to turn towards the direction of the voice. As she turned towards her right side, she was caught off guard when she saw that it was Heinkel. The two looked at each other for a moment before Heinkel began to leave towards a different area of the Shudraq camp.
"Son, wait..."
"Sorry, I just need a moment."
Heinkel said this with a sad tone of voice before leaving. Theresia wanted to go after her son but she noticed that he needed some space. Sora wasn't sure what to do, the only thing that came to mind was to ask,
"Are you okay?"
"Y-Yeah...I'll be okay. Come on, let's take you to Yorna and Olbart."
"If you want, you can go talk to Heinkel." Sora suggested, seeing that Theresia wants to go speak with him. Theresia was tempted to go with this suggestion but she knew that this wasn't the time.
"It's okay. Let's go."
"Okay."
Sora begins to follow Theresia towards the two divine generals direction. Cloud watched the keyblade wielder, happy to see that he is alright and still getting stronger but he noted that something was off.
'Something is dragging Sora down, but what?'
As Cloud questioned himself on this, he just set this question aside, knowing that he will get to the bottom of this at some point down the road. Meanwhile, Theresia and Sora arrived to see that Olbart was just sitting down, looking like he was mediating while Yorna was speaking with Kafma and Tanza. Just as the two were going to approach the residents of the Vollachia Empire, Carol and Grimm both approached Sora as they wanted to speak with him.
"So, you're the keyblade master Reinhard spoke highly about. Sora, was it?"
"Yes?" Sora asked as he wasn't sure what Carol or Grimm wanted nor did he knew who they were. Carol and Grimm inspected the boy for a moment before Grimm wrote to Carol that he was curious to see the weapon that bested Reinhard. Carol nodded to this before telling the keyblade master,
"Could we see that keyblade of yours?"
"um sure."
Sora said this calmly as he summoned Kingdom Key, trusting the elderly couple. He handed his keyblade at Carol, allowing her to hold his weapon. The moment Carol grabbed the keyblade, she felt a surge of power on her fingertips.
'W-What is this? This power is...beyond my own...'
Carol shock a bit since she had never felt this power before for her own. She is aware of power because of Theresia and Reinhard's divine protections but nothing to this degree.
Grimm looked at his wife with concern once he noticed her looking shocked longer than a minute. He grabbed the keyblade himself only to experience the same shock his wife had, seeing that the weapon they are holding together is incredibly strong.
'I understand now. I understand how Reinhard van Astrea lost despite having all of his divine protections active. This weapon must've been an equal to the power of the sword saint.'
Grimm let go of the weapon while Carol returned it to Sora, both having an understanding of the boy's power.
"For someone your age to carry so much power, it's pretty impressive."
Sora nodded at Carol's comment, appreciating what she said before noticing the people from Vollachia approaching them.
"So you are this keyblade wielder we have been hearing about from that Garfiel boy." Yorna said with a curious tone. Sora nodded as a response, catching the four Vollachian people's attention.
"Allow us to see that weapon of yours." Kafma said in a serious tone of voice. Sora looked at him with a serious facial expression before turning towards Theresia. She took notice of this and quickly nodded, reassuring the keyblade master that they are worth trusting. Sora nodded back before pulling out Kingdom Key once again. As he summoned his keyblade, Olbart and Yorna immediately noticed the power strength the keyblade was radiating.
'This power...it is equal if not stronger than us divine generals.' Yorna thought, knowing full well that this power might be a match for Cecilus.
'What power. Impressive. Though I wonder how strong this boy is alone compared to those in the shinobi village.'
Tanza and Kafma were both shocked by this power but understood that Sora was extremely strong.
"Tell me, keyblade user, where did you acquire such strength and power?" Olbart asked as he wanted to learn more of this boy. Sora turned towards the old man to respond with,
"The Keyblade chose me."
"Hm. So this weapon of power chose you, a young boy?" Olbart questioned, wanting to make sure that he is understanding what is being told to him. Sora nodded, giving his answer to the old shinobi.
He closed his eyes for a moment before turning around, indicating that he is done questioning the boy. Yorna noticed this which prompted her to ask,
"What exactly creates this weapon of yours?"
"What do you mean?" Sora asked as he wasn't sure what she meant by that. Yorna noticed the confused facial expression on the boy, prompting her to change up her question.
"How was this weapon of yours forge?"
"I...I actually don't know."
"Then allow me to ask, what is the purpose of the keyblade?"
Sora stood silent for a moment, trying to think carefully on how to respond to this question. He took a moment before finally saying,
"It's to protect those that need help. To light the darkness."
"Light the darkness..." Yorna closed her eyes as she thought deeply on the answer she got from the boy. As she closed her eyes, eventually took this moment to question the boy himself.
"Why do you choose to wield such a weapon? You mention before that you were chosen by this keyblade so why fight? What drives you to fight?"
Sora paused for a moment before responding to Yorna's question with a kind voice and a smile on his face.
"I fight for my friends. They are my strength...my power."
Yorna stood silent as she took in what the boy said. She found this information both interesting and favorable.
'This boy is innocent fights for others. I don't sense any malice or selfishness from him. I approve of him.'
Yorna smiles and nods at the keyblade master with respect before turning around and walking away, taking a moment to think on what she just learn. Before she could though, a voice spoke to the group.
"Yorna. Olbart. Good to see you two are still around."
Both divine generals turn and to their surprise, they see the mask man who was speaking to them walking alongside Priscilla and Arakiya. They were both focused on the mask man for a brief moment, having noticed what he said but their attention eventually turned towards the two ladies walking with him.
"Arakiya. You seem to be alright."
"...Yorna."
Olbart turned his attention towards Priscilla, having an odd feeling that he has seen her before somewhere.
"Young lady, mind telling me who you are. You look familiar."
"Hmph. That is none of your business, old man."
"No need to be harsh...though that personality does remind me of someone..."
Olbart closes his eyes as he thinks back on who Priscilla could remind him of. While he was doing this, the mask man speaks to everyone by saying,
"We need to regroup. A new plan needs to be develop now that we have more manpower on our side."
"And who are you suppose to be?" Yorna questioned as she didn't fully trust the mask man. Everyone turned towards Abel, wanting to see how he will respond. Abel looks at Yorna with a sharp facial expression, not liking how he was put on the spot. Just as he was going to answer the question, Subaru stepped in for Abel.
"He is someone that can be trusted. For now at least."
Abel looked at Subaru, indicating that he didn't need his assistance yet the boy ignored him. Kafma looked at Subaru with a blank facial expression.
"And you are?"
"My name is Natsuki Subaru, another Keyblade Wielder, and a proud knight of the amazing Emilia-tan!"
Yorna, Tanza, Kafma, and Olbart all looked at Subaru with a serious facial expression, uncertain if what the boy was saying regarding being both a keyblade wielder and a knight was even true. This prompted Kafma to be the one to say,
"Do you have any proof of those two statements, boy?"
Subaru figured that he would be asked about this, considering that keyblade wielders are very rare.
He held his free hand up while holding Beatrice tightly with the other hand.
He debated on his mind which keyblade he should pull out, Starlight or Rebirth.
He took a few seconds before finally making a choice. His hand glow for a brief moment before showing Starlight, a keyblade similar to Sora's Kingdom Key.
Yorna, Tanza, Olbart, and Kafma all four looked at Subaru with a surprised facial expressions, seeing that this boy was indeed another keyblade wielder just by the fact that he was wielding a similar keyblade to Sora's.
This got them all thinking about how this weapon is very new, something that the Vollachia Empire as never encountered before. The two divine generals turned towards Abel with Yorna being the one to ask,
"What exactly is this plan of yours? What are we getting involved in?"
"Taking back the Empire." Abel responded before taking off his mask, revealing to all on who he was. Olbart and Yorna both got their guards up since they didn't expect the emperor himself to be standing before them, hiding from everyone. They were prepared to attack him only for Sora to get in between the two sides.
"No need to get hostile. We are all on the same side."
"I can't trust this bastard. He let my people die out!" Yorna spoke as she blamed Vincent for the heartless attacking her city. Vincent looked at Yorna with a serious facial expression, viewing these accusations as baseless.
"I know you are mad, but we have to work together to take out the heartless."
Yorna looked at the Keyblade Master silently before giving a simple nod.
"Be lucky Vincent that this boy is vouching for you. Otherwise, I would have killed you right on the spot."
"Hmph. You wouldn't be able to land a hit on me." Vincent responded back to Yorna's threat. This got her a bit riled up but Sora was able to calm things down.
"We are all on the same side. We have more important things than fighting one another."
"Yeah. Abel, stop trying to piss people off."
Vincent turned towards Subaru with a slightly annoyed facial expression, disliking Subaru's comment. He looked at the boy for a moment before turning around, making his way back to the main tent.
Yorna turns towards Tanza and Kafma to keep an eye on things while her and Olbart go to see what the plan is alongside the others. Tanza and Kafma nodded at Yorna before watching everyone walking away towards the main tent. As this was happening, Sora turned towards Kenichi and Naoko to ask them,
"How is Louis?"
"She's...still asleep."
"Yeah. I haven't seen anyone sleep this much."
Sora paused for a second as he started to feel déjà vu from this entire scenario. He has seen this happen to Kairi, to Rem, and now Louis.
'I can't let her stay like this at all. I will wake her up. I have to use the power of waking to save her.'
Sora thought to himself with determination now. He looked at Subaru's parents, seeing that they are still worried for Louis Arneb's sake. This prompted him to tell the two,
"Don't worry, she will wake up. I'll find a way. I promise."
Kenichi and Naoko were silent for a moment, surprised by what Sora had said. After a few seconds, they smiled back with reassurance, appreciating what he had said to them.
Xigbar walked around a throne room, approaching Xehanort as he had some things in his mind. Once he was close to the old Keyblade Master, he stopped walking for a brief moment to ask the old man,
"What exactly are we doing here, you old coot?"
"Gathering warriors. We seem to be short by three." Xehanort responded calmly which left Xigbar a bit annoyed since this isn't what he meant by his question.
"That's not what I meant, you old nut job. I mean why are we even here? Aren't we suppose to prepare our big and final conflict that'll help unlock Kingdom Hearts?"
Xehanort looked at Xigbar for a moment, seeing that one of the organization members were annoyed. He only looked at him for a few seconds before looking forward.
"You haven't seen the bigger picture."
"What bigger picture? This is just...odd."
As Xigbar had said this, the two turned towards the corridor of darkness that had just appeared near them. The two looked to see that Xemnas and Ansem walk out of there with Ansem holding the sphere.
"Well then, those two have returned."
"Don't forget about me."
Xigbar and Xehanort both turned around to see that Luxord teleported right behind them with his own corridor of darkness.
"Well then, we are just missing Young Xehanort before we have the remaining half of our crew here. Speaking of him, where is he?"
"My younger self is taking care of something for me."
"Something?" Xigbar questioned. "He should be with us, we are already down by half."
"I agree. We are already down to six of thirteen. Our odds aren't in our favor." Luxord said, making a note of how they are losing currently. He pulled out a couple of cards as he said, "We should even up the playing field then."
"Not sure those cards can do much against that Keyblade Wielder." Xemnas spoke out, having little faith in Luxord's ability to win. The Organization member got out a couple of cards while he smiled with confidence.
"I can admit that I have lost the game before but that doesn't guarantee that I'll lose again. Unlike you, my former boss."
"Oh, do you have something to say then?" Xemnas said in a clam manner though he was a bit surprised by Luxord's back talk. He summoned one of his laser swords, preparing to teach Luxord a lesson for back talking. Luxord noticed this and quickly prepared himself for a battle only for Xigbar to interrupt the two.
"As much as I would love to see you two go at it, we are still at a disadvantage here. That Sora and his new friends from this world are somehow taking us down one by one. We need to change that and fast."
Xemnas, Ansem, and Luxord all three took note on what was being said.
"Well then, what is the plan to change this?" Ansem questioned, wanting to see what response he would get. Xigbar smiled when he heard this, prompting him to say,
"That is all up to the old coot here."
As Xigbar said this, they all turn towards Xehanort to see what the old Keyblade Master was going to say. The old keyblade master stood silent for a moment, seeing that the attention was thrown towards him by Xigbar. He closed his eyes for a second before saying to the four Organization members with him,
"Everything will go according to plan."
"According to plan? What plan?" Xigbar questioned. "All we've been doing was sitting back and doing nothing at all. While Sora keeps getting stronger alongside his so-called apprentice, we've been doing nothing. So tell us Xehanort, what is this plan?"
As Xigbar was starting to lose a bit of patience, he along with the others were surprised when suddenly Xehanort pulled out No Name keyblade and had it near Xigbar's neck.
"I understand that patience isn't for everyone but if we don't have our lights get strong, then the X-Blade won't come out."
"The X-Blade? What do you mean?" Xemnas questioned. Xehanort turned towards Xemnas for a moment before responding while keeping a level head,
"Sora is the key to re-summoning Kingdom Hearts."
"And what makes you think that it will work this time?" Ansem asked, wondering what will make it different this time. Xehanort lowered his weapon as he responded to Ansem's question.
"This time we are more focused on the boy, watching his every choice. Once we understand what Sora does at every turn, when he is under pressure, then we will succeed."
As Xehanort finished speaking, he took out all the cards of the people they had captured before throwing them in front of the five of them. As the cards landed on the ground, the cards suddenly started to glow for a moment before the captured divine generals and Halibel appeared before them.
"You all did very well, capturing these amount of people."
"But what is the purpose for capturing these guys?" Xigbar questioned once again, this time sounding curious. Before Xehanort could answer the question, Cecilus was the first to appear and without a second to waste, he charge directly at the old Keyblade Master.
Xemnas, Ansem, Luxord, and Xigbar were all a bit surprised by Cecilus's bold action though they knew what was going to happen next. Xehanort waited for a brief moment before easily taking the blue lightning down with a swing of his No Name Keyblade.
He landed a perfect hit on Cecilus's chest, sending him flying towards the stairs of the throne room. As this happened, Gaz and Groovy both charged at Xehanort to try and kill him before he landed a hit on them.
Xehanort smiled as he found this fun. He dodged the two attacks from both divine generals before landing a couple of attacks on the two divine generals. Chisha Gold, Halibel, and Mogro Hagane all three watched as the others were easily taken down. Chisha and Mogro both prepared to attack only for Halibel to quickly tell the pair,
"I wouldn't attack if I were you both. You don't stand a chance."
Chisha and Mogro both looked at Halibel with an annoyed facial expression before lowering their guard, seeing that the wolf man has a point. They had witnessed the strongest of the divine generals get easily whipped out with just one hit from an old man with a strange weapon. As they lowered their guards, Xehanort looked at the three with a serious facial expression.
"Hm. Are you three just going to stand there?" The old keyblade master questioned, a bit surprised that the three remaining warriors would just stand there. Chisha and Mogro were tempted to attack Xehanort but having remembered what had happened to the others, they remained still. After a moment, Xehanort figured that the three remaining warriors weren't going to attack him, prompting the old man to put away his No Name Keyblade.
"I can see now that you three are the smart ones out of the six of you."
"It's not just that, we just know a losing battle when we see it." Halibel responded in a calm and respectful manner. Xehanort took note of this comment from the wolf human, prompting him to say,
"I suppose you all are wondering why you are even here."
"Yes. Please tell us and do try to not waste our time." Chisha said in a sharp tone, annoyed of the situation he finds himself in. Xehanort looked at Chisha Gold with a blank facial expression while he answered with,
"You all are our pawns."
"Your pawns? Ha! Don't make me laugh! That's absurd." Chisha said as he was annoyed by what the old Keyblade Master. Before the old Keyblade Master was going to respond to what Chisha had said, Xigbar took this opportunity to say,
"You may deny it but we have defeated all of you at some point, so now you work for us."
"Ha! I'm not going to be a slave to anybody."
Chisha tried to attack Xehanort, finally reaching his limit point only to easily be knocked out by Ansem's kick to his gut.
"Hk!"
"You should know your place."
Chisha fell on his knees as he was holding his gut, trying to recover from the attack. Ansem looked at Chisha for a moment before walked back towards Xehanort's side, having made the point that none of the divine generals stand a chance.
Halibel suspected this since he barely was able to keep up against the Organization alone with his shinobi skills. To keep the tension from the room from increasing, the wolf man spoke calmly,
"So, you want us to do what exactly? You say we are your pawns but for what?"
Xigbar smiled as he was a bit surprised by the wolf man's question.
"Well Well, someone is ready to do their job, even if they don't have a chance."
Xehanort held his hand up to indicate that Xigbar should remain quiet. Xigbar noticed this and quickly fell silent, a bit annoyed by this though he was curious on what the old coot was going to say. The room was silent for a moment before Xehanort responded to Halibel's question by saying,
"You all will be attacking those that choose to fight the darkness but there is one person I want you all to target. A keyblade wielder by name of Sora."
Chisha looked at Xehanort with a blank expression, seeing just how dangerous these people in black coats are while Halibel was a bit surprised by the fact that Xehanort is targeting Sora. This caused him to feel a bit conflicted since he doesn't wish to harm the boy with the key, especially after their last battle. He crossed his arms while thinking to himself,
'Why that boy? Is it because of his weapon? This old man from just looks is much powerful than him. Does he threaten his power? Lots of questions I have.'
As Halibel was thinking this, he started to notice some odd darkness surrounding him and the others.
"Hm? What's this?"
"You will be facing that Keyblade Wielder, so you'll need an upgrade." Xigbar said, wanting to alert them to what was going on. Halibel looked at the three knocked out divine generals, seeing that they were also being surrounding by some odd shadow of darkness. While he looked around, Xehanort turned around as he began to leave the throne room of the Crystal palace. Xigbar took note of this, prompting him to ask,
"Where are you going, you old coot?"
"To take care of our other member."
"Hm. Okay." Xigbar said with a blank expression. As he watched Xehanort leave, the old keyblade master walked down a long hallway while thinking to himself about the events that had transpired since arriving to this world.
He recalls how he attacked the capital of Lugnica without any mercy, how he defeated both Sora and his blue haired female ally, killing Regulus, and now capturing the strongest warriors of other kingdoms.
He had been playing the passive role up until now. Now he is going to be an active role in order to achieve his goal of unlocking kingdom hearts. Just before arriving to the room the other Organization member was located, something came to his mind. He thought back on the woman with platinum hair, how she didn't die by his first attack.
("Hm. You remind me of someone...")
'Hm. I didn't think she would've recognized me.' Xehanort thought to himself as he hated seeing Pandora, the Witch of Vainglory. He closed his eyes as he calmed his nerves down before entering the room, seeing a tied up Replica Riku continue to try and free himself. As he continued this, Xehanort looked at him with disappointment.
"You won't be escaping anytime soon."
"I will! You can't keep me down here forever!"
"Yes I can. You are nothing compared to the rest of us."
Replica Riku stopped trying to free himself as his hatred started to boil towards Xehanort, disliking how he's being treated as an expendable vessel.
"If that is true...then why have me within your ranks?! Why treat me as part of the Organization then!?"
"..." Xehanort just stood silent as Replica Riku was shouting at him with anger, leaving the Old Keyblade Master completely disappointed in his vessel.
"Do you really think that witch will give you what you want?"
"At least she values my life, you crazy old man! She knows I have value as my own person! Not as someone else's replica!"
As Replica Riku shouted this, he started to glow with the witch's miasma, catching Xehanort's attention.
"This power...you really think that it'll help you out against me?"
"Yes! I can!"
Replica Riku broke out of his chains and quickly charged directly towards the old Keyblade Master. Xehanort stood still has he waited for a moment, wanting to see how fast Replica Riku's speed was before reacting. Just as Replica Riku's sword was going to connect with his neck, Xehanort deflected off the attack with ease and great speed.
"If you really had power over me, you wouldn't be in this situation."
As the old man said this, he managed to grab the boy's head before slamming it to the ground with intense strength. As the floor cracked by the impact, Xehanort let go of Replica Riku's head while putting away his No Name keyblade.
"You failed this fight because you keep wanting to be your own self. You should realize by now what your purpose is and accept it."
"...ghk...I...I won't...I won't g-gi...ve...up..."
"Hm?" Xehanort turned towards Replica Riku, surprised to see that the boy still had a strong willpower. Replica Riku slowly got up with every fiber of his body burning, telling him to stand down.
As he was getting up, he began to recall every single event that led him into this situation. From being a pawn of the Organization to saving Sora and his group from Terra-Xehanort to becoming the Sin Archbishop of Pride for Pandora. Even if things look bad, Replica Riku won't go down without a fight, he refuses to be anybody's slave.
"I...d-don't care...if I die...h-here...I'll...keep fighting till...the very...end...!"
"And what do you hope to accomplish by being killed here?" Xehanort pondered as he was still curious on what was driving one of his vessels to turn from their respective roles. Replica Riku looked at the old Keyblade Master with anger in his eyes but he did took the time to think carefully on the question he was asked. As he was thinking this question carefully, he remembered something.
("What are you doing?")
("Helping...a friend.")
("Go and chase down Xion, before it's too late.")
("Wait Riky, what about—?")
("I'm not Riku, I'm just a replica...but I'll build my own name after I redeem myself for all the damage I have caused.")
'I know what I said to him, wanting to redeem myself...that is why...I have to win...'
With this in his thoughts, he began to create a powerful fireball in his left hand while summoning his sword once again, ready for fight. As he was charging the dark fireball, he shouts at Xehanort,
"Don't you dare...underestimate me! I may not be the strongest here...but I will never give up!"
"Hm."
Xehanort turned towards Replica Riku to see what else the boy had in him, curious to see where this power will go. Replica Riku charges his attack for a minute more before throwing it at the old Keyblade Master, giving it his all to try and win.
Xehanort stood still for a moment as he took Replica Riku's hit. As this happened, Replica Riku quickly created a corridor of darkness to escape, knowing that this is his last shot at escaping.
As Replica Riku was running towards the corridor of darkness, Xehanort smiled as he watched his vessel run away. He could easily stop him from escaping though he does wonder if what he did would work. As the corridor of darkness finally disappeared, Xehanort just looked with a smile on his face.
"It's time to set the way for my goals to be realized. It's time to finish this."
As Xehanort said this, he turned around to close the door, knowing that the last stage for his plan is about to start.
'I'll allow that stubborn boy to continue to be with the witch. Once the time comes, she will go down alongside Sora and his new guardians of light.'
Xehanort closed the door and started to make his way towards the throne room of the crystal palace.
"So, you've gathered us all here now, stupid emperor. Now what?" Yorna said with an annoyed tone, hating being near Vincent. Vincent looked at Yorna with a sharp facial expression before looking at the table. He started to move some pieces representing each of their forces while answering Yorna's question,
"We will divide ourselves into groups, attack from multiple places and make our way towards the center of the city." Vincent grabbed a few pieces given to him by Naoko before he sat them down onto the map of the capital of the Vollachia Empire. "We shall have five groups. The first group is comprised of the three divine generals. Arakiya, Yorna, and Olbart. You three will take on these creatures from one side."
The three divine generals all looked at one another, seeing that they will need to put their skills to the test. Arakiya kept her thoughts from being shown by keeping her facial expression blank. She wished that she could've been tasked with Priscilla but she accepted this.
'Even if we aren't on the same group, I will prove myself worthy to be back by your side, Prisca-sama!'
Arakiya said this, determined to win back Priscilla's trust. Vincent continued to speak as he set the next set of pieces on the table.
"The next group will be the little spirit girl, the clown known as Natsuki Subaru, Natsuki Kenichi, Natuski Naoko, Medium, Flop, and myself shall take this point."
"Did you really have to call me a clown?" Subaru questioned with an annoyed facial expression. Vincent simply ignored him as he turned towards the table once again, waiting for the next set of pieces to be given to him. Sora crossed his arms as he was uncertain on why Naoko was joining the fight.
"Kenichi, is it okay for Naoko to join the fight?"
"I'm also a bit concern about that too, Sora-san. But it is my amazing wife's choice. I trust her judgement."
Sora looked at Kenichi a bit surprised but he smiled back, feeling reassured by what he said. He nodded at Kenichi before the two noticed Naoko bringing in a few more pieces that represented the next group.
"The third group will be comprised of that demi human boy, that merchant boy, Rowan, the female Sword Saint and her two commrades, the warrior named Heinkel, Kafma, and that shudraq woman, Kyda."
Garfiel and Otto were interested to see Kafma in action though they were curious to know the Shudraq warrior that was going to fight alongside them. As they were wondering this, Kyda made her appearance as she nodded at Vincent, accepting her group in the upcoming battle. She approached Garfiel, Otto, and Kafma to tell them,
"It will be an honor to fight alongside you three." Kyda says as she bows at the three warriors. Kafma bowed with respect since he does know of the Shudraq warriors and their capabilities. Garfiel nods with respect before waiting for Otto to bow before gently hitting the merchant's back while saying,
"Ya should date her, brotto."
Otto didn't hesitate to hit Garfiel in the head.
"There is no need to say such things!" The merchant says this with a flustered voice. Garfiel couldn't help but laugh at how embarrassed his best friend was. Mizelda noticed this and couldn't help but find the situation annoying while Vincent didn't care much of it. Heinkel looked at his mother for a moment with a blank facial expression before looking at the table, keeping his thoughts to himself.
Theresia noticed this and couldn't help but feel hurt that her son wasn't speaking to her, regardless of the reason. Rowan looked at the group members he was going to fight alongside, a bit curious to see how they all will handle themselves in battle. Vincent grabbed more pieces to set on the map while continuing to explain,
"The Fourth group would be comprised of just two people and a spirit. The Keyblade Master Sora, the spirit Zarestia, and the young man named Cloud."
"Wait, why those three?" Yorna questioned with Subaru, Theresia, and even Sora himself curious to know. Vincent didn't look at Yorna but he did responded to her question with,
"They will be facing most of the dark creatures. We would want our strongest to take care most of the dark creatures."
"Us three divine generals can handle that part on our own!" Arakiya said proudly, confident that her with Olbart and Yorna by her side are capable alone. Priscilla and the others noticed this, prompting the sun princess to respond,
"Boasting won't win you over. Actions speak louder than words."
"U-Understood, princess."
Arakiya remained silent which got Sora, Subaru Kenichi, Beatrice, and Naoko's attention. Vincent looked at Priscilla and Arakiya for a second before turning back to the table.
"For the last group. It will be composed of the remaining warriors. Priscilla, her attendent, Mizelda, and the rest of the Shudraq. You all take the other and final corner remaining."
"Hmph. Sounds simple enough." Priscilla said, confident that her group won't run into trouble. Al took notice of Priscilla's confidence, prompting him to ask,
"What happens once we take over the city from those dark creatures?"
Vincent looked at Al, having expected this question to those that weren't there in the previous meeting to hear the win conditions for this ultimate battle coming up. He took a second to think to himself before saying,
"We have three conditions for victory. The first is dealing with those creatures. We aren't getting around while they are still taking over my kingdom. Once that is complete, the second task would be getting rid of those organization members. So long as they have my divine generals at the palm of their hands, we will always be in constant danger."
"The only real threat would be Cecilus." Olbart mentioned, confident that Arakiya and himself alone would easily take the others out. Cloud noticed what Olbart said, prompting him to say,
"I could take him on. I was able to keep up with him."
"I would be careful, Cecilus isn't one to be trifled with." Vincent warned since he was aware of how powerful his strongest divine general was. Cloud looked at the Emperor of Vollachia as he noticed what he said. Just as he was going to respond to what he said to him, Olbart stepped up to say,
"There is no need to underestimate this young man, emperor. He was able stand up to Cecilus by himself. Should we deal with the blue lightning, I know he can handle him."
Vincent took a mental note on what Olbart said, surprised that he would vouch for anyone that isn't part of the Shinobi village. He turned back towards the table as he continued to speak on the win conditions.
"Once we defeat the organization or get back most of the divine generals, then there is the third objective, defeating this man named Sephiroth."
The room went silent as they heard the name. Cloud clenched his fist since he knows that this is something that needs to happen. Sora noticed this, causing him to worry for his friend while also knowing deep down that they need to defeat Sephiroth.
Subaru just looked at the table as he recalled the failed loops, how Sephiroth had killed his dad, the hopelessness he makes one feel when battling him. He closes his eyes as he feels himself with determination to defeat the one winged angel. As he was feeling this, he could hear his contracted spirit ask him,
"Are you okay?"
"Y-Yeah. Why you ask?" Subaru had asked, wondering why Beatrice was worried for him. She responded quickly,
"I could just...feel that you felt bothered by that man's name."
"...a little." Subaru said, not thinking that Beatrice would've noticed him being bothered by the thought of Sephiroth. "But don't you worry, with you by my side, I don't need to feel bothered by anything."
Subaru's confident smile prompted Beatrice to feel happy but to also boast.
"Of course. That's just what Betty can do."
Subaru nodded at Beatrice before turning towards the table, seeing what else was going to be said. While the two were having small talk, Priscilla and Al were both indifferent about it but the sun princess was able to notice that this threat should be dealt with just by looking at Sora and Cloud's expressions. Yorna was the only one who wasn't sure what to make of this third objective, prompting her to ask,
"Why is this Sephiroth important for our victory?"
"That man alone could defeat anyone of us. So having that kind of threat roaming around my empire is not acceptable." Vincent responded, having an understanding from what he was told that Sephiroth isn't someone he could try to convince to side with him.
Yorna turned towards the keyblade wielders and Cloud, hoping that either of them could elaborate more on the threat of Sephiroth. Sora and Cloud looked at each other for a moment, seeing that the divine general wanted more information. Cloud nodded at Sora before turning towards Yorna to explain more about Sephiroth.
"He isn't someone to take lightly. He's a mad man. Someone you can't trust. And a dangerous warrior to face alone. So long as he is here, he poses a threat to everyone, especially towards me."
"Why is he focused on you, bro?" Al asked.
"He wants to break me. That has always been his goal. To remind me of my failure and weakness...he's just insane."
"Man...that must suck." Al said as he couldn't help but be grateful that he isn't being tormented by some insane man. Yorna paused for a moment as she didn't expect this Sephiroth to be more insane than anything. She nodded at the young man before turning towards the table, seeing if there's anything else that needs to be said. Vincent noticed this, prompting him to say,
"Those three objectives are the key to victory. So you all have better be ready because we leave tomorrow. If you aren't ready, you will be left behind."
"What if the organization or Sephrioth attack us during our attack on the city? We should have a plan in motion should that happen." Subaru asked since this was something important that needed to be asked. Vincent looked at the table to see that this was a valid question to ask. He crossed his arms for a brief moment to think on this before answering with,
"Each group as a strong warrior. Should we encounter one of the organization members, then we shall have the strongest member deal with them."
"The organization is one thing but Sephiroth..."
"Should Sephiroth attack, we will have the entire group take him head on." Vincent responded to what Sora was saying. Cloud didn't like this since he doesn't feel like everyone here would be able to keep up with Sephiroth but considering how far every group would be from one another, this was the best course of action. Everyone in the room nodded at what Vincent had said, agreeing that this was a good plan. Vincent closed his eyes as he started to say,
"Okay then, if anyone has any concerns, ask them now."
Everyone looked at one another for a moment before turning towards Vincent, nobody having any concerns. Vincent noticed this which caused him to say,
"Alright then. Rest up. Tomorrow, we go to war."
Everyone on the table nodded before starting to leave the tent. As they were all beginning to leave the tent, Theresia quickly took this chance to catch up with Heinkel.
"Wait up, son!"
"..."
Heinkel tried to walk as fast as he possibly could but his mother was able to grab his hand, prompting him to stop on his tracks.
"Son..."
"...mother..."
"...are you mad at me?" Theresia asked, wanting to know if maybe her son hated her or was angry with her in some way. Heinkel stood silent for a moment before turning towards his mother, still amazed by two factors. The first being that she's alive and well after having blamed himself for so long. The second is how young she looks, almost like she could play off as a younger sister of his. He was stunned for a moment before responding to his mother's question,
"I'm not angry at you. Why would I? It's not your fault. I just...I need some time to process this. Please excuse me, mother."
Heinkel gently moved Theresia's hand away from his before leaving the tent, needing some time to process everything. As he left, Theresia was hurt by this since she didn't expect her son to be this distance.
("How's our son holding up?" Theresia asked Wilhelm. The old butler stood silent for a moment.)
("He's...been distant. He hasn't had it easy after you disappeared." Wilhelm said with a blank expression, not wanting to worry the previous sword saint.)
'I have heard he had grown cold but I didn't expect this cold...'
Theresia took a deep breath to keep herself calm while Carol and Grimm both approached her, noticing that she was feeling down.
"What's wrong, lady Theresia?"
"It's...it's nothing to worry about."
Grimm and Carol looked at each other, prompting Grimm to quickly write something to hand over to Theresia. As he hands her the paper, the previous sword saint reads it.
Is it related to your son?
Theresia had a moment to pause before nodding at Grimm, allowing both of her friends to know what is causing her to be sad at the moment. Carol set her hand on her friend's shoulder while saying,
"You don't need to feel sad, lady Theresia. I understand that your son has become a cold alcoholic man—"
"Wait, my son is an alcoholic?" Theresia questioned with shock which prompted Carol to quickly change the subject on that fact about Heinkel.
"I mean, he has been working hard. Though he has been going downhill for a time, that hasn't stopped him from continuing to work hard for Lugnica."
Theresia stood silent for a moment as she was now understanding how her son had been dealing with her "death". She looked at the direction he went off to and knew that once this was all done, she will do her best to reconnect with her son.
An hour after the meeting had past, Cloud was sitting down on the ground on his own, looking up at the sky. While he did this for a bit, he noticed Sora approaching him.
"Sora. What brings you here?"
"I just noticed that you were on your own, so I thought you might like some company."
Cloud nodded as he accepted Sora's company, allowing the keyblade master to sit next to him.
"Are you okay?"
"I'll be once we finally get rid of Sephiroth." Cloud responded in his usual edgy like tone though this time it sounded a little bit relaxed. Sora looked up at the sky as he responded to Cloud's comment with,
"We will. Together, we will succeed in beating Sephiroth."
"You think so?"
"Yes!"
Sora smiled as he nodded at Cloud with confidence. The young man couldn't help but feel confident himself. The two stood silent for a moment before Cloud asked,
"How does it feel having trained someone?"
"It feels a little weird but satisfying."
"Seeing you train someone is weird but knowing you, you would make a good master."
"Yeah...I guess..." Sora said with a bit of hesitance since he still has the memories of Subaru dying over and over, most being gruesome deaths. This caused some doubt on him, feeling like had he trained Subaru properly, he wouldn't have been in so many hopeless situations. Before Sora's mind felt more guilt, he felt Cloud pat him in the back. This caused him to return his mindset back into reality as he hears his friend tell him,
"It's tough being a master. You have to make sure that the person you train understands what you are teaching them and hoping they can master the things you say and even improve on them. But knowing you, I believe you could pull it off, Sora."
"You think so?" Sora asked with a curious voice.
"Yes. You are a kindhearted keyblade warrior. You care for others. And above all else, you are the most capable person I know to handle whatever is thrown towards you."
Sora was surprised by what Cloud had said, causing him to smile.
"Thank you for those kind words, Cloud."
"Just being honest." Cloud paused himself for a moment as he started to get up. "We should get ready for tomorrow, it's going to be the toughest battle yet."
"Agreed."
Sora got up with Cloud's assistance before the two started to go towards their respective tents. As they were about to split up, Sora turned towards Cloud to tell him,
"I'm really happy that you are here with me."
"It is nice being by your side once again, Sora."
The two nodded at each other before going to their separate ways, with Cloud heading towards Theresia, Carol, and Grimm's tent while Sora went towards the Natsuki tent. While they were walking, Sora started to think carefully about what Cloud had said about him, how he believed that he was capable of being a master. Although those words really helped his confidence, remembering his student's deaths were painful, especially one death loop.
("Master Sora...please don't die...")
("Hehe...don't worry Subaru...you'll be able to save us all...that's why I'm not afraid...but in the case you don't make it back in time...just know that I'm proud of you, you really made me...feel like I could be an actual keyblade master...")
("No, Master Sora! Please...!")
('Damn it Natsuki Subaru...you should've done this by yourself...this is all your fault for not being strong...I should have died instead of Master Sora. This is all my fault. Damn it why am I not fucking strong...fuck!')
Seeing these moments and even managing to hear the thoughts his apprentice had during this moment hurt the Keyblade Master. Not by just watching himself die but how much it impacted Subaru.
He looked at his hand for a moment just before summoning Kingdom Key. As he looked at his keyblade for a moment, he closed his eyes as he remembered the promise he made to his apprentice and close friend.
("I won't let you keep losing your life...no more, Subaru. I told you that I would do my best to stop you from dying and I meant it. I won't let another life be taken from you!")
'I have to keep that promise. No matter what, I can't fail my friend.'
With a bit of determination regained to the keyblade master, he put away Kingdom Key and quickly made his way towards the tent. Just as he was about to enter, he was able to sense Priscilla and Al's presence. He turned towards his right side to see the two, noticing that they are approaching him.
"Hello." The Keyblade Master said with his usual positive outlook.
"Hey bro, what are you doing right now?" Al responded in a kind manner.
"I was just heading towards the tent. Do you need my assistance with something?" Sora asked with a curious voice. Priscilla took this opportunity to respond to the Keyblade Master's question with,
"Yes. I would like you to tell me about this Sephiroth person."
"What exactly would you like to know?"
"Everything." Priscilla spoke with pride. "I want to know every single detail of that man that way Aldebaran knows what he is dealing with."
"Wait, hold on princess. First off, please stop calling me by that name. Second, why just me? Shouldn't you practice—"
Al was interrupted by Priscilla's strong kick to his gut.
"I shouldn't have to remind you Aldebaran that comparing yourself to me is the same as an ant comparing its strength to a ground dragon. Know your place."
"...Y-Yes princess...understood..."
As Al was regaining his composure, Sora remained shocked by this. Priscilla noticed Sora's reaction to her way of treating Al, prompting her to say to the Keyblade Master,
"Pardon me for the violence. He doesn't learn otherwise."
"That's not—"
Priscilla gave Al a sharp look, causing him to immediately be quiet. Priscilla turned towards Sora with a more softer look on her eyes as she asked the boy,
"It would be much appreciated if you told us everything about this new foe."
"Well...It wouldn't hurt to tell you two about it." Sora said, seeing that this might be necessary since he could end up attacking their group before they managed to finish off the heartless controlling the capital. "The only thing that is important is that he carries a very long sword, has a dark wing on his left side, and is incredibly powerful."
"More powerful than you?" Al asked with concern. Sora stood silent for a moment as he pondered on the question. After a couple of seconds, he responded with,
"He might be. I was able to beat him before but it wasn't enough to fully defeat him."
Priscilla and Al both took note of this, seeing that Sephiroth isn't someone to take likely at all.
"Is there a way to truly defeat him?" Priscilla questioned, wanting to know if there are any sure-fire ways to kill this threat. Sora stood silent for a moment before he responded to Priscilla's question.
"Not sure...you'll have to ask Cloud about that."
"Hm. Understood." Priscilla said as she figures that she would need to speak with Sora's friend if she wants more information on Sephiroth. She turns around but before leaving, she asks the keyblade master, "Is it possible that you could train this excuse of a servant?"
"Um...yeah, sure. I can help Al." Sora said which caused Priscilla to smile underneath her fan.
"Alright then. Aldebaran shall see you in a bit then. Come on, Aldebaran, we must talk to this Cloud."
"Stop calling me by that name, princess."
As Al and Priscilla were leaving to go speak with Cloud, Sora was left a bit uncertain on how he should respond to whenever Al is being mistreated by Priscilla. On one hand, he dislikes it but on another, Al seems to be fine with it despite it causing him pain.
All the keyblade master could do is just bury this thoughts for now. He turned towards the tent and entered it. Once inside, he noticed that it was just Beatrice and Subaru there. The two noticed him, prompting the Keyblade apprentice to say,
"Hello there, Master Sora."
"Hello Subaru. How are you holding up?"
"I'm doing well. Just here with Beako."
"Where are Kenichi and Naoko?" Sora asked as he noticed that they weren't around.
"They are getting food, in fact." Beatrice responded as she received more headpats from her contractor.
"Yeah. Mom and Dad said that we need to be resting up for tomorrow's battle."
"Tomorrow is going to take everything we got." Sora said as he knows that rest is important before a big battle. Subaru nodded at what his master said before continuing to mess with Beatrice's hair for a moment before noticing his master approaching Louis's sleeping body. Sora looked at the sleeping teen girl with a sad expression, seeing that she was still stuck in a deep sleep.
"As much as I don't like her, this can't stay like this any longer." Subaru said as he started to get up in order to stand next to Sora. As he does this with Beatrice by his side, Sora looks at his apprentice, having noticed what he said. He looks at him for a moment before looking back at Louis, knowing that there is one way to wake the sleeping sin archbishop of gluttony. As Subaru and Beatrice were standing next to Sora, the little spirit looked at Louis with a curious look.
"Who is this girl?"
"She's..." Subaru paused, unsure if he should tell Beatrice that this was the one responsible for all the events of the watchtower. Sora didn't hesitate to finish Subaru's sentence.
"Her name is Louis Arneb. She's a good person, Beatrice. She just needs someone to show her the way towards the path of light."
Beatrice was uncertain by what Sora meant by this, prompting her to look at Subaru in hopes that he can clarify. Subaru noticed Beatrice's look, knowing what that means. He takes a moment to think before finally saying to his contracted spirit,
"Louis Arneb...is a Sin Archbishop of Gluttony."
"What?!" Beatrice shouted as she became alarmed by this information. She turned towards Sora to question him, "Why hasn't she been dealt with, I suppose?!"
"She isn't a bad person, Beatrice. She's just misguided." Sora spoke in defense of Louis. Beatrice looked at Sora with an annoyed facial expression, not liking this one bit. She swiftly turned towards her contractor in order to see what he thinks of this. Subaru noticed this which caused him to think carefully on this situation. He still hates Louis for what she did to his master and to him.
That anger still boils within him but he also knows that having Louis be asleep at a time where they can't afford having any weak points could prove to be a problem. He also knows that his master cares a lot for Louis, seeing a way to redeem her just like how he managed to redeem Elsa and Meili. This made him pause his thinking for a brief moment.
He had some hatred towards Elsa back at the start of his journey in becoming a Keyblade wielder, especially how she contributed to many of his deaths. Though despite that, he had somehow manage to tolerate her being around. In some form he had managed to forgive her subconsciously to the person that first killed him in this world.
'If I can somehow find it in my soul to forgive someone like that...then...'
Subaru closed his eyes as he hoped that what he said next wasn't something he would regret later on.
"I think we should wake her up."
"Really?" Both Beatrice and Sora asked in unison, both of them having different tone of voices. Sora was more of genuine surprise while Beatrice was of some hostile and concern. Subaru felt like he was regretting this choice but he didn't back down. He looked at Beatrice has he responded to her first.
"If we are able to get along with Elsa of all people, then I don't see why we can't make peace with Louis."
"That woman is just a crazy gut loving woman. A Sin Archbishop is much worse, I suppose!"
"I know and honestly, I don't like it at all...but I trust Master Sora's judgement."
As Subaru said this, he looked at his master with a confident smile, showing how much he trusts him even though he has his own doubts about this. Sora was surprised for a moment before he nodded back at Subaru, appreciating the trust his apprentice has on him. Beatrice stood angry at Subaru, not liking this at all. She looked at Sora as she knew that Subaru is only going with this because of his trust towards the Keyblade Master.
"Do you really believe that this the best course of action, I suppose?"
Beatrice questioned as she sharply questioned Sora. The Keyblade Master was silent as he noticed the tone of voice the little loli spirit had when asking this question directed towards him. He took a moment to think before responding with,
"I understand why you feel reserved about this. I get it Beatrice but trust me on this, everything will be alright. Louis is a good person at heart."
"How confident are you on this, in fact?"
"Confident."
As Sora said this, he remembered what happened in the hall of memories. He recalled knowing what Louis wanted.
("We want to be happy, have a happy life. A perfect life.")
As he remembered what Louis had said, he also recalled how she teared up and hugged him after he had said,
("He will come around but right now the focus is on you and the goal to help you be happy.")
Remembering this made him more determine to try and wake her up, knowing that he can save her. He turned towards Louis once again while pulling out Kingdom Key. Subaru noticed this, prompting him to immediately ask,
"What are you going to do?"
"I'm going to use the power of waking."
"The power of waking?" Beatrice questioned, not having heard of such an ability. Subaru approached Sora as he was curious on how he will use it exactly. Sora looked at Beatrice to explain the power of waking,
"It is the power to free a sleeping heart. Just like with Rem, Louis's heart is asleep. I can't leave her like this any longer. I have to wake her up."
"Then let me join you." Subaru said as he pulled out his Rebirth keyblade, ready to help out his master.
"Are you sure about this? You don't have to help." Sora said as he knows that Subaru does hold some resentment towards the sleeping teen girl. Beatrice quickly added in,
"I forbid it, in fact!"
Subaru looked at Beatrice for a brief moment before saying to his contracted spirit,
"I understand what you are saying but we can't just let her be in this state at all. Plus, this power of waking could prove useful in the future. I want to learn this ability while also helping my closest friend, Sora, to wake up someone he believes in."
Sora smiled at what Subaru had said, once again appreciating what his apprentice had said. Beatrice was still against this but she trusted her stubborn contractor and the gullible keyblade master. She crossed her arms and looked angry at the two keyblade wielders before sighing.
"You two are just stubborn, I suppose...do what you have to do."
She said reluctantly, knowing that she can't keep the two keyblade wielders from helping someone out, even if it is a sin archbishop of gluttony. Subaru smiled at Beatrice before hugging her.
"G-Get off of me, I suppose!"
"I promise that everything will be alright, Beako. You can trust me on this."
"Th-Things better be okay when this is all over, in fact! Or else I'll drain all your mana!"
"Hahaha...okay..."
Subaru laughed awkwardly before turning towards his master, following his every move. Sora pointed Kingdom Key directly towards Louis's heart. Subaru followed the same movements, pointing his Rebirth keyblade. As the two keyblade wielders pointed their keyblades at Louis, a bright pink sphere appeared in front of them for a moment, surprising Subaru and Beatrice.
"What is that?"
"The way into Louis's heart. Are you ready?" Sora asked in a serious voice. Subaru nodded at his master, showing that he is ready. Sora nodded back at Subaru before turning back towards the sphere, noticing that he was starting to glow alongside his apprentice.
"You better be safe, in fact!" Beatrice said, worried for her contractor's safety. Subaru looked at her and smiled before saying in hopes of reassuring the little loli spirit,
"Don't worry Beako, I'll be back before you know it."
"You better."
Subaru continued to smile at Beatrice before looking back at the sphere with a serious facial expression, seeing that he was also glowing as well. The two keyblade wielders glowed for a few more seconds before they disappeared into the sphere, beginning to make their way into Louis Arneb's heart.