Chapter 44: EOTW: Chernobag and The Final Rest

[WN: CRabbit3428665 - If you see this, never say never! This was always in my plans for this story, but it took a different path than my original plan. Thanks for reading and supporting with great ideas! :) ]

THE DEPTHS OF DARKNESS

Starfall Super Sonic, glowing with radiant energy, zoomed through the dark and twisted landscape of the Realm of Darkness. The super-powered hedgehog could sense the lingering presence of Ansem, the architect of chaos. The final clash to thwart Ansem's plans and restore Mobius and the other fallen worlds loomed on the horizon.

"I can sense something powerful close by," Sonic muttered to himself, his cyan blue eyes scanning the ominous terrain.

The darkness seemed to pulse with malevolence, making the air thick and oppressive. As Sonic delved deeper into the realm, the terrain began to shift and contort, jagged rocks and twisted spires jutting out of the ground like the teeth of some ancient beast. The oppressive atmosphere weighed heavily on him, yet his determination remained unshaken.

With each passing moment, Sonic's heightened abilities sharpened his senses, allowing him to perceive the malevolent energies swirling around him. Shadows danced along the ground, twisting and writhing as if alive, while eerie whispers filled the air, carrying sinister messages that seemed to taunt him.

"That darkness," Sonic remarked sternly, his voice cutting through the whispers like a blade. "Could it be... him?"

His gaze locked onto a distant point where the darkness appeared to be thickest, an abyssal pit that seemed to swallow all light. As he approached, the void began to tremble, and a sense of foreboding washed over him. The very air seemed to vibrate with dark energy, making his fur stand on end.

Then, he saw it—a massive mountain, its depths shrouded in an impenetrable shadow. The edges of it glowed faintly with a sickly, otherworldly light, and the rocky ground around it was scorched and barren. Sonic hovered above the mountain, his senses alert, every fiber of his being poised for action.

Suddenly, the air grew colder, and a deep rumbling sound echoed from within the crater inside the large mountain. Sonic's eyes widened as a colossal figure began to rise from the abyss. Massive black wings unfurled, blocking out the faint light, casting an eerie shadow over the twisted landscape. The towering form emerged, its eyes glowing with a fierce, malevolent red that pierced through the darkness.

It was Chernobog, the devil himself, a being of pure darkness and terror, straight out of a dark and twisted story of the past. His immense wings were leathery and bat-like, spreading wide to envelop the area in an oppressive shroud of shadow. His skin was as black as midnight, with muscles rippling beneath the surface, and his horns curved menacingly from his forehead.

Chernobog's presence exuded an aura of dread and despair, his very being a manifestation of nightmares. His sharp, angular features twisted into a sinister grin as he fixed his predatory gaze on Sonic, his eyes glowing with an unholy light. The air around him crackled with dark energy, and the echoes of distant screams seemed to follow him, adding to the terrifying spectacle.

"So, you're the source of this powerful darkness I can sense," Sonic said, his voice low and serious, yet laced with his signature cocky wit. "You look like you just stepped out of some twisted Fantasia flick, but don't think I'll let you stand in my way. Ansem's going down, and I'm the headliner in this show!"

Chernobog let out a thunderous roar, the sound reverberating through the air and shaking the very foundations of the realm. His massive hands, tipped with razor-sharp claws, flexed menacingly as he prepared to strike. Shadows twisted and writhed around him, forming grotesque shapes that seemed to flicker and dance in the periphery of Sonic's vision.

With a flap of his enormous wings, Chernobog sent a gust of icy wind towards Sonic, carrying with it the scent of decay and despair. The landscape itself seemed to respond to the monster's will, becoming a hostile, living extension of his malevolent power.

Sonic, undeterred, hovered in the air, his radiant energy shining brightly against the encroaching darkness. He clenched his fists, the aura around him intensifying as he drew upon the power of the Chaos Emeralds. His cyan blue eyes locked onto Chernobog, filled with determination and resolve.

"You might look like a bad dream, but I've faced worse and come out on top," Sonic declared, his voice cutting through the oppressive silence. "Let's see if you can keep up!"

CHERNOBOG

Battle Music: Undefeatable - Sonic Frontiers

Without another word, Starfall Super Sonic launched himself forward, his golden and crimson-red form streaking through the air like a comet. The radiant energy surrounding him clashed with the oppressive darkness emanating from Chernobog, creating a visual spectacle that lit up the desolate landscape. Chernobog roared in defiance, his immense wings beating furiously as he summoned dark energy to his command.

Sonic's first strike was a blindingly fast Homing Attack, aimed directly at Chernobog's chest. The impact was explosive, sending shockwaves rippling through the air. Chernobog staggered but quickly retaliated by summoning a torrent of dark fire that erupted from mountain's terrain, aiming to engulf Sonic in its malevolent flames.

With unparalleled agility, Sonic dodged the inferno, weaving through the pillars of dark fire with ease. He accelerated to even greater speeds, using his Sonic Boom ability to create shockwaves that disrupted Chernobog's attacks and kept the colossal figure off balance. Sonic's movements were a blur of golden and crimson light, each pass creating a sonic boom that resonated through the cavernous space inside the mountain, causing the very air to tremble.

Chernobog snarled in frustration, his massive form trembling with rage. He swung one of his colossal claws at Sonic, the sharp talons slicing through the air with lethal intent. Sonic, with the heightened senses and reflexes of his Starfall form, executed a Perfect Parry, his body glowing with intensified energy as he deflected the attack with a precise counter. The parry created a burst of light that momentarily blinded Chernobog, giving Sonic the opening he needed.

"Not so fast, big guy!" Sonic quipped, his voice dripping with defiant confidence.

Seizing the moment, Sonic launched into a flurry of rapid spin attacks, each one striking with the force of a meteor. He targeted Chernobog's wings and chest, his strikes landing with pinpoint accuracy. Sparks flew as Sonic's attacks met the tough, leathery surface, but he could feel the damage accumulating. Chernobog roared in pain, his eyes glowing brighter with fury.

Chernobog lashed out with another attack, this time summoning dark tendrils from the ground to ensnare Sonic. The tendrils moved with terrifying speed, but Sonic was faster. He spun into a high-speed dash, the sheer force of his speed slicing through the tendrils like a hot knife through butter.

"Too slow!" Sonic taunted, as he circled around Chernobog with blinding speed.

With a sudden burst of acceleration, Sonic charged up and launched himself at Chernobog's exposed side, the impact sending a shockwave that reverberated through the entire realm. The force of the attack caused cracks to spiderweb across Chernobog's dark form, dark energy seeping out like blood. Sonic's energy radiated, creating a luminous contrast to the encroaching shadows.

Chernobog roared in pain and fury, his eyes glowing even brighter with malevolent energy. He raised his massive arms, summoning a vortex of shadows that swirled around him, creating a barrier of pure darkness and malevolence. The vortex pulsated with dark power, pushing Sonic back with its overwhelming force. Sonic was momentarily disoriented, but his resolve remained unshaken.

"Nice trick, but it's gonna take more than that to stop me," Sonic said, his voice filled with resolve and a hint of his trademark cockiness.

Without missing a beat, Sonic accelerated again, his form becoming a streak of golden and crimson light. He charged at the vortex with renewed vigor, using his super powered form to generate a spiraling shockwave of energy that collided with the dark barrier. The clash of forces created a spectacular explosion of light and shadow, momentarily lighting up the dark realm.

Sonic emerged from the other side, a golden blur of unstoppable energy. He zigzagged around Chernobog, his movements too fast for the devil to track. As he circled, Sonic unleashed a series of rapid, devastating spin attacks, each one aimed at a vulnerable point on Chernobog's massive torso.

With each strike, Sonic's attacks grew more intense. He incorporated his Sonic Boom ability, creating concussive blasts that reverberated through Chernobog's form, causing further fractures to spread across the devil's body. The sound waves from Sonic's attacks disrupted the dark energy, weakening Chernobog's defenses.

Chernobog, enraged and desperate, attempted to counterattack. He swung his colossal claws in wide arcs, but Sonic's enhanced reflexes and speed allowed him to evade each swipe with ease. Sonic's parries were flawless, each one generating bursts of light that blinded Chernobog and left him vulnerable to further attacks.

Sonic then ascended rapidly, gathering momentum for his next move. He performed a high-speed loop in the air, generating a cyclone of radiant energy around himself. With a fierce cry, he dove downwards, transforming into a golden missile aimed directly at Chernobog's head.

The impact was monumental. Sonic's attack struck Chernobog with the force of a celestial body, creating a shockwave that rippled through the entire realm. Chernobog's roar of agony echoed across the darkness as his form began to crack and disintegrate, dark energy bleeding out like a flood.

"You think darkness can stop me? Think again!" Sonic shouted, his voice filled with determination and defiance.

Sonic continued his relentless assault, now targeting Chernobog's wings. He moved with blinding speed, his spin attacks slicing through the leathery appendages and rendering them useless. Desperation clawed at Chernobog as he struggled to rise. His dark wings, now tattered and torn, flapped weakly in a futile attempt to lift his colossal body from inside his domain. Sonic hovered above him, his Starfall form glowing with an intense, unwavering light.

"You're not going anywhere!" Sonic shouted, his voice echoing through the cavernous interior of the mountain. His cyan blue eyes blazed with determination as he gathered the full power of his Starfall Super form.

Chernobog roared in defiance, summoning the last vestiges of his dark power. Shadows writhed and twisted around him, forming a barrier of pure malevolence. But Sonic was undeterred. He ascended higher, his energy intensifying, becoming a beacon of radiant power against the encroaching darkness.

With a mighty cry, Sonic unleashed his ultimate move. Drawing upon the immense energy of the Chaos Emeralds and his heart, he created a vortex of wind and light. The air around him crackled with energy as the vortex grew in size and intensity, swirling with a ferocity that shook the very foundations of the mountain.

"Super Sonic Wind!" Sonic declared, his voice resonating with power.

The vortex surged forward, a whirlwind of pure, concentrated energy aimed directly at Chernobog. The devil's eyes widened in terror as the Super Sonic Wind collided with his form. The force of the attack was cataclysmic, the wind tearing through his dark barrier and piercing his very essence. The shadows that had clung to him so tightly were ripped away, dissipating into nothingness as the wind howled through the mountain.

Chernobog's roar of agony echoed through the chamber, a sound filled with desperation and despair. His massive form began to disintegrate, fragments of darkness peeling away under the relentless onslaught of the Super Sonic Wind. The mountain itself seemed to shudder, the dark energy that had once suffused it now dissipating into the ether.

"That's for all the damned souls you took, you monster!" Sonic shouted, his voice cutting through the chaos.

With one final, earth-shaking roar, Chernobog's form was obliterated, reduced to nothing but a memory. The oppressive darkness that had once filled the mountain was gone, replaced by a tranquil, almost serene silence. The mountain's ground beneath Sonic was scarred and smoking from the intense battle, but the darkened air was now clear, free from the malevolent presence that had once dominated it.

"Rest in pieces," Sonic remarked, looking down at the now empty mountain crater where Chernobog once stood.

The devil's defeat left a void, a stark contrast to the chaos that had filled the mountain just moments before. The silence was almost deafening, a testament to the intense battle that had just transpired.

RANK: S

Starfall Super Sonic landed on the edge of the mountain's crater, his senses still heightened from the fight and the power of his heart. He could feel a persistent darkness emanating from within the depths of the mountain, a dark energy that beckoned him forward.

"This must lead to Ansem," he thought. "I have no time to lose."

With unwavering determination, Sonic levitated into the distorted and darkened air of the realm. The shadows seemed to reach out to him, but his golden aura repelled them, creating a protective barrier of light. He shot down into the hole inside the mountain, his form a streak of radiant energy slicing through the darkness.

As Sonic descended deeper into the mountain, the air grew colder and more oppressive. The walls of the tunnel were jagged and uneven, etched with ancient symbols and runes that pulsed with dark energy. Despite the ominous surroundings, Sonic's resolve never wavered. He could sense Ansem's presence growing stronger, a malevolent force that seemed to throb with anticipation.

"The power of the emeralds, my heart, my world, and my friends... I will stop Ansem!" Sonic thought to himself, his determination hardening like steel.

THE FINAL REST

Sora, Donald, Goofy, Lucina, Wally, Gallade, and Charizard stepped through the portal, emerging from the chaotic domain where they had just defeated Giratina. The transition was immediate and profound. One moment, they were in a twisted realm of shadows and swirling darkness; the next, they found themselves in a serene chamber, filled with a sense of peace that they hadn't felt in what seemed like an eternity.

The chamber was vast and ethereal, bathed in a soft, warm light that seemed to emanate from the very walls themselves. The floor was smooth and polished, reflecting the gentle glow, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Delicate patterns of silver and gold wove intricate designs across the surface, forming constellations and symbols of ancient power and protection. The air was fragrant with the scent of blooming flowers, though none were in sight, and a gentle breeze whispered through the room, carrying a sense of calm and renewal.

"This place, it seems...peaceful," Lucina said, breaking the silence.

Sora nodded, taking in the serene environment, his Ultima Weapon dematerialising from his hand.

"Yeah, it's like a safe haven. Just what we need after everything we've been through on this world."

In the center of the chamber stood a beaming column of light, bright yet gentle to the eyes. Its radiance filled the space with a healing warmth, washing away the fatigue and wounds of the recent battle. Beside this column of light was a tall, narrow, and slender white door, its surface smooth and unblemished. It stood as a stark contrast to the serene environment, exuding a quiet yet formidable presence. The group knew instinctively what lay beyond it: their final confrontation with Ansem.

"This has to be the door to Ansem, right?" Wally pondered, looking closely at the door in front of the group.

"I'd say so," Donald replied, his voice firm with a mixture of anticipation and resolve.

"Me too," Goofy added.

"This light," Lucina said, turning her attention to the soft glow near the door. "I feel it's healing us from that battle with Giratina."

Sora looked at the beam of light, feeling its warmth seep into his very being.

"Yeah, it's like it's mending more than just our bodies. It's giving us the strength to keep going."

Donald, his Dream Rod glowing faintly in the soothing light, added, "We've been through a lot, but this light is making sure we're ready for the final fight."

Goofy stretched his arms, feeling the tension leave his muscles.

"Gawrsh, this light sure is somethin'. Feels like it's mendin' our hearts too."

Wally, standing close to Charizard and Gallade, nodded.

"We needed this. After everything we've faced, a moment to heal and prepare is just what we needed."

Gallade stood next to Wally, his psychic energy resonating with the column of light.

"Gallade," he murmured, his eyes closed in concentration.

Charizard moved closer to the beam of warming light, his flames flickering as he let the warmth envelop him.

Lucina sheathed her sword, closing her eyes as she let the light soothe her tired muscles.

"We've come a long way. We need to be at our best for what lies ahead."

As they rested, the group exchanged quiet conversations, reflecting on their journey and the battles they had fought. The light in the chamber seemed to respond to their unity, growing warmer and more inviting. It was as if the very essence of this place was lending its support, encouraging them to stay strong.

Sora watched his friends, a sense of pride and determination swelling within him. They had come so far together, and now they stood on the brink of their greatest challenge.

"We can do this," Sora said quietly, more to himself than anyone else. "For our worlds, for our friends, and for each other."

Suddenly, a voice echoed from within Sora, speaking to him directly.

"We are all in this together, Sora."

Just as Sora recognised the voice, his Ultima Weapon reappeared in his hand, vibrating gently and shining with a warm, glowing light. The radiant light caught the attention of the rest of the group, drawing their gazes to the Keyblade. What they were about to witness would leave them in awe.

With the summoning power of the Keyblade, all the summoned allies materialised in the chamber of rest. AiAi, Vyse, Billy Hatcher, Axel—without his yellow and black taxi—and NiGHTS all appeared in front of Sora and the team. Sora was bewildered, pondering what they were doing here; he hadn't summoned them.

Vyse stepped forward, his expression sincere and grateful.

"Sora, we want to thank you for helping us when we were lost and found. Our worlds were gone, and we became gems, but you found us. We'll always cherish this adventure and the friendship we've built."

Billy Hatcher nodded vigorously, "You've given us hope and a reason to fight. We'll never forget what you've done for us."

AiAi jumped up and down inside his Monkey Ball, his excitement and gratitude palpable.

Axel, with his crazed eyes, gave a nod of appreciation to Sora and the heroes.

"You pulled us out of a dark place, Sora. Thanks for that."

NiGHTS levitated in the air, their voice filled with warmth.

"Without you, Sora, Donald, and Goofy, our the many worlds out there would be in chaos. Ansem and the Heartless would have plunged them into eternal darkness. Nightopia could have been a victim too."

Charizard moved forward and stood by Sora, his presence a silent but powerful acknowledgment of his gratitude. His eyes shone with a fierce loyalty and appreciation.

From beneath Donald's hat, Genie appeared, his usual exuberance tempered with deep sincerity.

"Oh, master of the Keyblade, you have no idea how thankful we are. Aladdin, Jasmine, and I owe you big time for saving Agrabah and sealing the Keyhole. Many worlds out in the cosmos owe you heroes one."

Sora's eyes welled up with emotion, the weight of their gratitude and the bond they shared overwhelming him. He looked around at his friends and allies, their faces filled with unwavering support and affection.

Donald, trying to hide his own tears, quacked softly.

"You're not so bad, Sora."

Goofy, always the heart of the team, placed a hand on Sora's shoulder.

"Gawrsh, Sora, look at all the folks you've helped. We're all in this together."

Lucina, touched by the display, added, "You've brought us all together, Sora. Your heart and courage are what keep us strong."

Wally and Gallade stood in solidarity, their expressions resolute.

"We've got your back, Sora. We're ready for whatever comes next."

Sora looked at each of them, his heart swelling with pride and gratitude.

"Thank you, everyone. We've come so far, and together, we'll see this through to the end. For our worlds, for our friends, and for each other," Sora declared, his voice steady and filled with determination.

NiGHTS and Genie exchanged a knowing glance before nodding to each other. In unison, they raised their hands and channeled their respective magic over the group. A shimmering aura enveloped the heroes, infusing them with a strange but powerful energy.

Sora felt a surge of warmth and light wrap around him.

"Hey, what was that?" he asked, curiosity and slight apprehension in his voice.

NiGHTS smiled, hovering gracefully in the air, "Ansem won't be a pushover. It's very likely he'll have the ability to levitate and fly around during the battle."

"How do you know?" Donald asked, looking puzzled.

NiGHTS and Genie shared a chuckle.

"That's our little secret," NiGHTS said, winking. "We've given you all the ability to Super Glide. Now you can take the battle from the ground to the skies."

Genie, ever the showman, added with a playful grin, "Think of it as a little bonus feature! Now you can fly like the wind and give Ansem a run for his money."

Goofy looked at his friends, excitement growing in his eyes.

"Gawrsh, that sounds pretty neat!"

Wally, standing close to Gallade and Charizard, flexed his fingers, feeling the new power coursing through him.

"This is incredible. We'll be unstoppable."

Lucina tested the new ability, gliding effortlessly a few feet off the ground before landing gracefully.

"This will definitely give us an edge."

Sora felt a renewed sense of confidence. With the ability to Super Glide, their chances against Ansem had improved significantly.

"Thanks, NiGHTS. Thanks, Genie. This will help a lot."

NiGHTS nodded, "Just remember, Sora, you have the strength of your heart and your friends. That's what will truly guide you."

Genie floated back to Donald's side, giving him a friendly nudge.

"And don't forget to have a little fun out there. After all, what's a hero's journey without a bit of flair?"

The group, now equipped with their new ability, felt even more prepared for the battle that lay ahead. The energy in the chamber was electric, filled with anticipation and the unyielding determination to see their mission through. But this wasn't the last gift to be given by the team of summons.

Materialising a giant egg from his powers of Morning Land, Billy Hatcher looked to Sora with a smile.

"You'll need supplies to deal with Ansem's attacks. I hope whatever's inside will aid in this fight!"

With a gentle touch, Billy Hatcher's egg began to crack and hatch, revealing an array of valuable items inside. Mega Potions, Hi-Ethers, Elixirs, and other essential supplies emerged from the egg, shimmering with magical energy.

Sora's eyes widened with gratitude.

"Wow, Billy, this is incredible! Thank you!"

Donald quickly gathered some of the Mega Potions.

"These will definitely come in handy. We'll be able to heal up quickly during the fight."

Goofy picked up a Hi-Ether, nodding appreciatively.

"And these will keep our magic going strong. Thanks, Billy!"

Lucina selected an Elixir, feeling its power thrumming beneath her fingers.

"This could make all the difference. Your gifts are a blessing."

AiAi, jumping up and down in his Monkey Ball, beaming with joy with all these supplies.

NiGHTS, still hovering gracefully, added, "With these supplies and your new ability to Super Glide, you'll be more than ready to take on Ansem."

Genie, lounging beside Donald, gave a thumbs-up.

"Consider this a little insurance policy. Ansem won't know what hit him!"

Charizard moved closer, his fiery tail illuminating the chamber. He nodded solemnly at Sora, his gratitude and support evident in his eyes.

"We believe in you, Sora. Use these gifts well, and we'll be right there with you in spirit," Wally said, with Gallade by his side.

Sora looked around at his friends and allies, his heart swelling with pride and determination.

"Thank you, everyone. With your help, we'll make sure Ansem's reign of darkness ends here."

The group shared a moment of silent camaraderie, the bond between them stronger than ever. Each member took a final breath, steeling themselves for the battle ahead. The chamber's light seemed to pulse with their combined resolve, casting a warm glow over them.

Sora turned once more to the tall, narrow white door, feeling the weight of the moment but also the unwavering support of those around him.

"Are we ready?"

"Ready," they echoed, their voices united and strong.

With a deep breath, Sora pushed open the door. The light from within spilled out, brighter and more inviting than ever, guiding them toward their final challenge.

As they stepped through, the sense of calm remained, but it was now accompanied by a fierce determination. The final battle with Ansem awaited, and together, they would fight with everything they had. For their worlds, for their friends, and for the future, they would not falter. The journey had been long and arduous, but they were ready to face whatever lay ahead, side by side.

(Disclaimer: The song "Undefeatable" in Sonic Frontiers is performed by Kellin Quinn.)

[WN: We are into the Endgame now. The last few chapters coming up. This has been a real blast to write since October and I've enjoyed it very much. Let's hope the next few chapters bring a satisfying conclusion to this story. Thank you once again for all the support].