Chapter 13: Goldman
[See Writer's Note at the bottom of the chapter]
The darkness... It feels like home.
My past? A tale of ambition, a dance with destiny. Financed Caesar's endeavours alongside Curien, believing in the power of innovation. But Caesar's dreams were dashed by meddling world travellers, and Curien... Curien met his demise at the hands of his own creation, The Magician. The Mansion Incident, they labelled it. A mere setback.
My finances dwindled, and the AMS prowled like vultures. But then came Maleficent, recognizing my potential amidst the wreckage. I aligned with her, seeking the elusive door.
The evil fairy entrusted me with the Heartless, giving me newfound strength. With this, I resurrected Curien's creations with vigour. I thought I had mastered it all, until the AMS, along with their allies—the Keyblade's wielder, the king's court, the hedgehog —they shattered my ambitions, my Emperor.
I allowed the darkness to consume me, evading the clutches of the AMS and their allies. Now, I traverse the abyss in pursuit of this so-called 'Nirvana.' The life cycle demands safeguarding, with darkness as the key. I shall locate the door, seizing dominion over mankind, over light and shadow.
The darkness, my sanctuary, my arsenal. I shall wield it to command all. It has illuminated my path, its influence moulding me, shaping me. This is my destiny, my retribution.
The darkness, my inexorable ally.
The trio of Shadow, Aqua, and Mickey pressed on, their footsteps echoing against the desolate terrain of the Realm of Darkness. As they traversed the winding and darkened paths, they found themselves surrounded by towering structures, once grand monuments now reduced to crumbling remnants of a forgotten civilization. The shadows seemed to writhe and pulse with a malevolent life of their own. Shadow's sharp eyes scanned the ruins, and a familiar sense of recognition tugged at his mind.
"This place," Shadow muttered, looking around the crumbling structures and abandoned streets of the new location.
"You know where we are, Shadow?" Aqua asked, tilting her head downwards to the hedgehog walking beside her.
Shadow nodded, his eyes scanning the desolate surroundings with a mix of recognition and sorrow.
"Yeah, I know this place. This is Station Square. Or at least, it used to be," he admitted.
Aqua and Mickey's eyes followed Shadow's as he continued to take in the darkened ruins.
"Station Square was a bustling metropolis back on Mobius. It was a place full of life and activity, with people going about their daily lives, unaware of the threats lurking just beyond their world. But as we know, the Heartless got their hands on this place when the darkness swallowed Mobius."
Shadow was right; it was indeed Station Square. The remnants of the city told a story of its vibrant past. Abandoned cars, their exteriors rusted and their windows shattered, littered the streets. Buildings, once towering and grand, stood as skeletal remains, their facades cracked and crumbling. The signs of once-thriving businesses hung precariously, swaying in the eerie, lifeless breeze.
As they walked, the trio passed what used to be busy intersections, now silent and deserted. The echoes of their footsteps were the only sounds, amplifying the desolation around them. They reached the Station Square Train Station, once a hub of activity, now overgrown with dark and twisted tendrils of darkness. Shadow's gaze grew even more sombre as they approached the building.
"This place was nearly destroyed once before, by a being called Perfect Chaos," Shadow explained.
"Perfect Chaos?" Aqua asked, seeking clarity on Shadow's story.
"It was a monster born from negative energy, and it flooded the entire city," Shadow retorted. "Buildings were submerged, cars swept away, and people were left scrambling for their lives."
Mickey's eyes widened in shock at the revelation.
"How did you stop something like that?" he inquired.
"It wasn't me," Shadow said, his voice heavy with both respect and bluntness. "It was Sonic."
"Sonic defeated that monster?" Mickey retorted, his expression a mix of disbelief and admiration.
"How did he defeat him, Shadow?" Aqua asked, she was curious by this development.
Shadow took a deep breath, recalling the story he had heard from G.U.N.
"Sonic harnessed the power of the Chaos Emeralds. When all seven are gathered, they can transform someone into a state known as the Super Form."
"Super Form?" Aqua asked, her interest piqued.
"Yes. In this form, the user becomes incredibly strong, fast, and nearly invincible," Shadow affirmed. "Their entire being radiates with the energy of the Chaos Emeralds, turning them into a formidable force against any opponent."
"Wow, that sounds incredible," Aqua marvelled, her eyes wide with fascination.
Mickey, equally curious, chimed in, "Can you go into this form as well, Shadow?"
"Yes, I can," Shadow affirmed with a nod, but his expression was serious. "With the power of the Chaos Emeralds, I can also achieve Super Form. It grants me the same enhanced abilities and resilience that Sonic has. It's a power born of pure chaos energy, and when harnessed properly, it's a formidable weapon against the forces of darkness."
"That must be an incredible feeling, to wield such power and to use it for good," Aqua remarked.
Shadow's gaze turned reflective as he continued, "It is, but it's also a great responsibility. The power of the Chaos Emeralds can be overwhelming. It's crucial to maintain control and focus, especially when facing powerful enemies."
"Having that kind of strength could be a real game-changer in our fight against the darkness," Mickey admitted, looking to Shadow, who in return nodded in agreement.
"Yes, I am fortunate to have one with me to help with my powers," Shadow said, plucking the red Chaos Emerald from his pocket and gazing down at it. "Sonic should have the rest by now back in the Realm of Light."
"Your Chaos Control is incredibly helpful. I've seen you use it in battles recently. Even with the darkness affecting the Chaos Energy, it's amazing that you can still utilise it in short bursts," Aqua remarked, looking at Shadow and the pulsing Emerald.
Shadow smirked, his pride evident as he replied.
"It does take a lot of focus, especially here in the Realm of Darkness. But it's good to know I can still tap into its power when needed."
"I can't wait to see you use it in action," Mickey said, his excitement palpable. "I read about the power of the emeralds, and seeing you project your light to Sonic earlier was impressive."
"Stick around, Mickey. I'm full of surprises!" Shadow teased, giving off a smirk as the Red Chaos Emerald disappeared from Shadow's hand, back to safety.
Aqua glanced around, her senses on high alert.
"We should keep moving and find the Keyblade," Aqua said, her tone resolute.
Shadow and Mickey nodded in agreement, and the three left the Station Square station, venturing deeper into the broken, darkness-plagued city.
The cityscape around them grew even more desolate as they progressed. The buildings, once towering symbols of progress and life, now stood as hollowed-out husks, their windows shattered and their structures leaning precariously. The streets were strewn with debris, and the occasional flicker of movement in the shadows hinted at lurking dangers.
Abandoned cars lined the sidewalks, some turned over on their sides, others burned out and rusted. Shop fronts were boarded up or broken into, their contents long since looted or destroyed. The eerie silence was occasionally broken by distant crashes or the unsettling whispers of the wind through the ruins.
"This place... it's like a graveyard," Aqua murmured, her heart heavy with the sight of such devastation.
"Stay alert," Shadow warned, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the area.
As they continued deeper into the city, the trio found themselves in a large plaza. The sky above was a tumultuous swirl of dark clouds, twisted by the malevolent energy of the darkness. In the centre of this location stood something they weren't expecting—a man with his back turned to them. He was well-dressed and smart-looking, seemingly gazing up at the near-destroyed buildings and the darkness twisting in the skyline. The sight of him, so out of place in this apocalyptic landscape, made them pause.
"Hey!" Shadow called out, his voice echoing through the empty plaza.
The man turned slowly, his stare cold and unyielding. He had a sharp haircut, jet black like the darkness of this realm. His face was stern and showed no emotion, with no warmth coming from behind his spectacles and his cold eyes. He wore a smart grey suit, a white shirt, a dark mustard tie, and shiny black shoes. The contrast between his immaculate appearance and the decaying surroundings was jarring.
"What are you doing here?" Mickey asked, his grip tightening on his Keyblade. "This place is dangerous!"
The man took a moment to respond, his gaze sweeping over the trio before settling back on Shadow.
"I'm observing," he said, his voice devoid of any warmth. "The fall of a once-great world. The inevitable descent into chaos."
"Who are you?" Aqua asked defensively.
The man adjusted his glasses, a faint smile playing at the corner of his lips, though it didn't reach his eyes.
"My name is Goldman, Keyblade Master," he said coldly.
Aqua looked surprised, taking a slight defensive position but not summoning her Keyblade. Shadow folded his arms and huffed at the name and the man's attitude. Mickey looked perplexed but he stepped forward slightly to confront the man standing before them.
"Goldman?" Mickey repeated, his face looking puzzled. "I've heard that name before."
"As have I," Shadow retorted, his voice seemingly unimpressed. "You're the one I read about, the man funding those experiments."
"Indeed," Goldman replied, his tone remaining eerily calm. "I am the one responsible for financing those endeavours."
"And, if I'm not mistaken, you were the one who fled capture after being defeated by Sora, Sonic, and the others?" Shadow continued, somewhat teasing the man about his past failure.
"A small setback," Goldman uttered in annoyance.
"Wait, Sora and Sonic defeated you?" Aqua asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Yes, they, along with the King's fools," Goldman acknowledged with a mixture of bitterness, casting a brief glance at Mickey before returning his attention to Aqua. "And the dogs of the AMS. They defeated my Emperor, the one who would rule over mankind!"
"The Emperor... You were trying to bring about a reign of darkness, weren't you?" Aqua questioned, her eyes narrowing.
"Not just darkness," Goldman corrected, a twisted smile forming on his lips. "A new order, one where humanity would be purified through chaos and rebirth. The Emperor was the key to that vision."
"You were playing with forces out of your control," Mickey replied, his tone firm.
"And you failed," Shadow added bluntly, his eyes narrowing. "Now you're here, trapped in the Realm of Darkness, still clinging to your twisted dreams."
Goldman's smile faded, replaced by a cold, calculating stare.
"Failure is a harsh word, but fitting. However, my ambitions are far from over. The darkness here offers new opportunities, new powers to harness."
Aqua took a step forward, her resolve hardening.
"You're a danger to everyone," she declared, summoning her Keyblade, Master's Defender, its light cutting through the oppressive darkness.
Goldman's cold gaze fixed on her and the Keyblade, his eyes narrowing.
"So, it is you..." he muttered, almost to himself.
"What are you talking about? And why are you staring at me like that?" Aqua demanded.
Goldman's expression turned into one of realisation mixed with anger.
"It makes sense now. The blue-haired Keyblade wielder... You were the one who ruined Caesar's plans," he grumbled.
"Caesar?" Aqua asked, her confusion evident.
"What are you rambling on about, Goldman?" Shadow remarked, his patience wearing thin.
Goldman snapped his gaze to Shadow, his voice sharp.
"Silence, hedgehog!" he spat, then turned his attention back to Aqua. "The one called Papa Caesar, he was my business associate many years ago. The Papa Caesar Incident—his grand designs were thwarted by meddling Keyblade wielders. I see now that one of them was you."
Aqua's fractured memories began to piece together, the name Papa Caesar triggering a cascade of recollections. Her mind was pulled back to a moment in time, a flash of clarity amidst the haze of her past.
AQUA'S MEMORY
As Aqua's memory deepened, she found herself transported back to a dark and foreboding warehouse. This time, she was not alone. By her side was Varla Guns, a striking woman with mid-back length violet-black hair, brown eyes, and a butterfly tattoo on her right arm, along with rose designs. Varla carried a gun holster on her right thigh, a brown strap wrapped around her legs, and dark-red sunglasses resting on top of her head. Her outfit consisted of a mini vest, a high-cut red skirt, and purple light brown boots adorned with purple star designs.
They moved stealthily through the warehouse, their eyes scanning for any sign of Papa Caesar. The air was thick with the stench of decay, and the shadows seemed to pulse with a malevolent energy.
"Stay alert," Aqua whispered, her Keyblade ready in her hand.
Varla nodded, her gun at the ready.
"Yeah, yeah, Keyblade Master. Just don't get in my way."
Aqua gave her a sidelong glance but said nothing, focusing instead on their mission. They rounded a corner and came face-to-face with a group of undead experiments, grotesque creatures that were a fusion of dark magic and twisted machinery.
"Looks like Caesar's been busy," Varla muttered, her eyes narrowing.
Aqua stepped forward, her Keyblade glowing.
"Let's take them down. Together!"
Varla smirked at the idea, "You got it, Blue."
The battle was fierce, with Aqua and Varla working in tandem. Aqua's graceful strikes and powerful magic complemented Varla's precise shooting and quick reflexes. Despite their differences, they made an effective team.
At one point, Varla narrowly avoided an attack, her reflexes saving her from a nasty hit.
"What the f—"
"Language," Aqua interrupted, her tone firm.
Varla rolled her eyes dramatically but couldn't help the grin that spread across her face.
"You're adorable, you know that?" she quipped, winking at Aqua.
Aqua frowned slightly, her focus still on the battle.
"Adorable?"
Varla chuckled, ducking under another swipe from one of the undead creatures.
"Yeah, like a schoolteacher scolding a student. It's cute. Keep it up, Princess Purity!"
Aqua's cheeks tinged pink with a mix of annoyance and embarrassment.
"Focus on the fight, Varla."
Varla laughed out loud, enjoying the reaction.
"Yes, ma'am! Anything for you, Teach!" She mock-saluted before firing off a few precise shots, taking down a couple of the creatures.
Aqua couldn't help but let out a small, exasperated sigh, her lips twitching into a reluctant smile. Despite Varla's teasing, the woman's skills were undeniable, and their teamwork, however unconventional, was proving effective.
"Just try not to get yourself killed, okay?" Aqua called out, her tone both stern and affectionate.
"Don't worry, Princess Purity," Varla responded, grinning widely. "I've got your back. Now let's kick some undead butt!"
The two fought their way through the warehouse, dispatching the last of the undead creatures before reaching a large, heavily guarded door. With a determined push, they entered the room and found themselves face-to-face with Papa Caesar.
Caesar stood there, his imposing figure framed by the eerie glow of various experimental machines. He smirked at the sight of Aqua and Varla, his eyes cold and calculating.
"Welcome, ladies. I see you've been enjoying my creations," he remarked coldly.
"Caesar!" Varla shouted, her voice filled with rage and determination. "This ends now. You're going to pay for what you did to my brother!"
Caesar's smirk widened into a cruel grin as he replied.
"Ah, Jasper. Such a fragile mind. He was perfect for my experiments. And now, you'll see the fruits of my labor."
He gestured to a large containment chamber behind him, which hissed open to reveal a grotesque monstrosity. The creature was a terrifying hybrid of an Unversed and Caesar's twisted experimentation. It had the dark, fluid form of an Unversed, but mechanical limbs and glowing red eyes that pulsed with a malevolent energy. Its body was a patchwork of organic and synthetic parts, and it moved with a disturbing, almost fluid grace.
"Meet my latest creation," Caesar said, his voice dripping with pride. "A perfect fusion of negativity and technology. A true testament to my genius."
Varla's eyes narrowed, her grip tightening on her gun.
"You monster. You'll pay for this," she spat in anger.
"Such anger," Caesar mocked, his tone condescending. "But I expected nothing less from someone so emotionally weak. Your brother was the same, always letting his emotions get the better of him."
Varla's fury was palpable, but Aqua stepped forward, her expression resolute.
"This ends now, Caesar. You won't hurt anyone else!" She declared, her Keyblade, Rainfell, gripped tightly in her hand.
Caesar's gaze shifted to Aqua, his smile fading slightly.
"Ah, the Keyblade Master with the righteous speeches," he teased. "Tell me, where are your fellow Keyblade wielders now? They failed to stop me before, just as you will fail now."
"Terra... Ven..."Aqua muttered, her heart skipping a beat. "Where are they?"
Caesar's laugh was cold and mocking.
"Oh, did I touch a nerve?" Caesar teased sinisterly.
Varla's patience snapped, "You son of a bitch!" she shouted, leveling her gun at Caesar.
Aqua couldn't help but let out a small sigh.
"Language, Varla!" she said, though her tone carried a hint of amusement.
Varla shot her a look, a smirk playing on her lips.
"Sorry, Princess Purity. But this bastard deserves every curse word in the book."
Aqua gave a small nod, her resolve hardening.
"Agreed. Let's take him down!" Aqua declared
"Now you're talking!" Varla replied with determination, aiming her guns at the monstrosity.
The hybrid creature roared as it charged at them. Aqua and Varla moved in unison, their contrasting fighting styles perfectly complementing each other. Aqua's Keyblade flashed with light, striking at the creature's vulnerable spots, while Varla's precise shots took out its mechanical parts.
As the battle raged on, Aqua felt a surge of camaraderie with Varla. Despite their differences, they fought with a shared purpose, their determination unwavering. The memory began to blur, fading back to the present.
"I remember now," Aqua said to herself, piecing together that moment with Varla Guns all those years ago.
"Caesar's fall was only the beginning," Goldman replied in frustration. "Curien was next, and then my fate was nearly taken from me. Until the darkness took me in. It is home now."
However, Shadow's patience was wearing thin, and his red eyes glared towards Goldman.
"Enough games, Goldman," Shadow demanded. "You failed and now seek the darkness, but what is your true objective?"
"I seek the Keyblade of this realm, stubborn hedgehog," Goldman revealed bluntly. "With it, I can empower my visions once again, to bring safety and protection to the life cycle."
"That's absurd," Shadow replied, unimpressed by Goldman's explanation.
Goldman's smirk widened, unfazed by Shadow's reaction.
"Believe what you will, hedgehog. The Keyblade is the key to unlocking the true potential of the darkness. With it, I can bring forth my failed plans and rule the darkness."
Aqua's eyes narrowed, her resolve strengthening.
"We won't let you lay your hands on the Keyblade. We'll stop you, no matter the cost."
Goldman tilted his head, his eyes glinting with malice.
"You speak of stopping me, but do you understand the life cycle? The true nature of existence and rebirth?"
Mickey stepped forward, his now summoned Keyblade shimmering with light.
"We understand enough to know that your plans are twisted and dangerous. You seek to manipulate the darkness for your own gain, not for the betterment of the world."
Goldman's gaze shifted to Mickey, his smile cold.
"You, King Mickey, with your idealistic views. The life cycle is about balance, about the strong prevailing and the weak perishing. Only through darkness can true order be achieved."
"That's not balance," Aqua countered. "That's tyranny. You twist the concept of life and death to justify your actions."
Shadow's voice cut through the tension.
"And what makes you think you can control the darkness? It's not something that can be tamed or used for good."
Goldman's eyes gleamed as he looked at Shadow.
"Ah, The Ultimate Lifeform. You are a perfect example of preserving the life cycle, thanks to Professor Gerald Robotnik's work. His attempts to create the ultimate being have been tried and copied many times, only to fail at every hurdle."
Shadow's glare intensified, but he kept his composure.
"And yet, those attempts never succeeded, because they never understood the true purpose behind it," Shadow remarked back bluntly.
Goldman ignored Shadow's reply and his gaze shifted to Aqua, his expression thoughtful.
"And you, Aqua, the blue-haired Keyblade wielder. You represent the light, yet even light can falter. You are not the same as the reports tell—you miss a heart, from what I understand."
Aqua's eyes widened slightly, but she steadied herself, her grip on her Keyblade firm.
"I may have been split into two, and now I walk as a Nobody. But I don't need a heart to still fight for the light."
Goldman shook his head, a cold, mocking laugh escaping his lips.
"How naïve. Even as a Nobody, you cling to your ideals."
He slowly reached into his jacket pocket, retrieving a strange-looking vial and holding it out for the trio to see.
The vial was filled with a swirling, dark substance, its surface rippling with an eerie light.
"This," Goldman began, "is a concoction I've developed, harnessing the pure essence of darkness. With it, I can amplify my power and bend the darkness to my will."
Shadow's eyes narrowed, his patience wearing thin.
"You're insane if you think we'll let you use that."
Goldman sneered, unfazed by Shadow's words.
"Insane? Or visionary? The darkness is a tool, a means to an end. And with this vial, I will transcend the limitations of light and dark."
Mickey stepped forward, his Keyblade shimmering with resolve.
"That vial won't save you, Goldman. We'll stop you before you can use it."
Goldman's laughter echoed through the plaza, cold and bitter.
"You underestimate me, King Mickey. But no matter. The time for words is over."
Goldman uncorked the vial, the dark substance within beginning to pulse and glow more intensely. The ground trembled, and the shadows around them seemed to come alive, drawn to the dark energy. Seeing this, Aqua, with her resolve unshaken, stepped forward.
"We won't let you carry out your plans, Goldman. Light will always find a way."
"You're an idiot, Goldman," Shadow remarked. "This is madness."
But Goldman paid no heed to Aqua or Shadow's scorn, his attention fixated on the vial in his hand.
"As the first step towards my ultimate goal," Goldman declared, his voice tinged with anticipation, "I shall drink the contents of the vial and unlock its power. Behold, the dawn of a new era! Justice will be served, friends!"
With a swift motion, Goldman tipped the vessel back, allowing the contents to cascade into his mouth. Almost immediately, his expression contorted in agony as the substance took effect. He groaned in pain, clutching at his chest as the transformation began.
Aqua and Mickey watched in horror as dark energy coursed through Goldman's veins, twisting and distorting his once-human form. His skin grew paler, his eyes glowing with an unnatural light. Shadow observed with a grim expression, his suspicions confirmed – Goldman had delved too deep into the darkness, and now he was paying the price.
As the darkness surged through Goldman's veins, his skin turned ashen and his once-human features contorted and shifted. His body elongated and twisted, his limbs elongating into grotesque appendages. His eyes glowed with a sinister light as his mouth widened into a gaping maw, filled with rows of razor-sharp teeth.
The transformation continued, and Goldman's flesh began to decay, revealing the pulsating muscles and sinews beneath. A long, serpentine tongue slithered out from his mouth, dripping with acidic saliva. Two additional arms sprouted from his back, each ending in wicked claws that twitched and spasmed with a mind of their own.
Bound in spectral shackles, the creature's four arms strained against their restraints, emitting an eerie glow that illuminated the surrounding darkness. With a guttural roar, the abomination known as Justice towered over Aqua, Mickey, and Shadow, its monstrous form a grotesque mockery of its former human self.
As they prepared to face this unholy creature, the trio braced themselves for the battle ahead, knowing that they faced a formidable foe fueled by darkness and driven by madness.
Mickey took a deep breath, his Keyblade shimmering with light.
"We can't let him win," he said, trying to rally the group's spirits.
Shadow, his eyes locked on the monstrous Goldman, stood ready for combat.
"Stay focused. We can take him down if we work together."
Aqua, her Keyblade glowing with a brilliant light, nodded resolutely.
"For the light. Let's end this."
With a collective battle cry, the trio launched themselves at the abomination.
JUSTICE
Battle Music: Boss Raid - House of the Dead 4
Justice roared, swinging its multiple limbs at the trio with incredible force. Aqua darted in, her Keyblade slicing through the air with precision, aiming for the joints and weak points of Justice's limbs. The creature's claws barely missed her as she nimbly dodged and struck, her movements fluid and controlled.
Mickey used his agility to weave through the chaos, delivering precise strikes to Justice's vulnerable spots. He cast bursts of light magic to blind and disorient the monster, creating openings for Aqua and Shadow.
"Take this!" Mickey shouted, casting Fira at the creature's chest, causing it to stumble back.
Shadow utilised his Chaos Control to teleport around the battlefield, landing powerful blows from unexpected angles.
"Chaos Spear!" he shouted, launching a barrage of energy projectiles that exploded against Justice's hide, leaving deep, smoldering wounds.
Justice bellowed in rage, its serpentine tongue lashing out. The acidic saliva narrowly missed Mickey, who rolled out of the way just in time. Aqua quickly cast a barrier of light to shield him.
"Not today," she muttered, her eyes blazing with determination.
As the battle raged on, Justice's attacks grew more desperate and erratic. One of its massive claws swiped at Mickey, hitting him hard and sending him crashing into a pile of rubble.
"Mickey!" Aqua shouted out, seeing her friend hurt.
Shadow turned to see Mickey groaning in pain and struggling to get back on his feet. The hedgehog teleported away using Chaos Control and reappeared next to the downed king.
"Hang in there, Mickey," Shadow said, placing a hand on Mickey's shoulder. "Chaos Heal!"
A green light enveloped Mickey, mending his wounds and restoring his strength. Mickey took a deep breath and stood up, his resolve stronger than ever.
"Thanks, Shadow. I owe you one."
"Just stay in the game," Shadow replied, his eyes locking back onto Justice.
The monstrous form of Goldman continued to flail, its multiple limbs swinging wildly in an attempt to crush its foes. Aqua, regaining her composure, dashed forward, her Master's Defender Keyblade glowing with a brilliant light. She leapt into the air, delivering a series of precise strikes to the creature's joints once again.
Mickey joined back into the fight, his Spellbinder Keyblade crackling with magic.
"Thundaga!" he shouted, sending bolts of lightning crashing down onto Justice, causing it to recoil in pain.
Aqua followed up with a Blizzaga spell, freezing the creature's limbs and making it easier for Shadow to target its weak points.
Shadow teleported around Justice, using his Chaos Control to land devastating blows.
"Chaos Spear!" he shouted, launching energy projectiles that pierced the creature's hide, leaving smoldering wounds.
Justice roared in fury, its serpentine tongue lashing out in a wide arc. Aqua and Mickey dodged nimbly, but the creature's sheer size and strength made it a formidable opponent. Aqua cast a protective barrier around her and Mickey, deflecting a series of attacks that would have otherwise struck them down.
"We need to keep the pressure on," Aqua urged, her eyes blazing with determination.
"Agreed," Shadow replied, his Chaos energy crackling with intensity.
Mickey, his mind racing for a strategic advantage, suddenly had an idea. Raising his Spellbinder Keyblade high, he shouted, "Stopza!"
A shimmering wave of temporal magic emanated from Mickey's Keyblade, enveloping Justice. The monstrous creature's movements slowed, then halted entirely, as if time itself had been frozen around it. The writhing shadows and flickering dark energy around Justice paused, creating an eerie stillness in the chaotic battlefield.
Shadow's eyes widened in surprise and admiration.
"Impressive. But how long will it hold?"
Mickey, panting slightly from the exertion of casting such a powerful spell, shook his head.
"Not long. We need to act quickly!"
Taking advantage of the brief reprieve, Aqua, Shadow, and Mickey sprang into action. They converged on the frozen abomination, each determined to deliver as much damage as possible before the spell wore off.
Aqua moved first, her Master's Defender Keyblade glowing with brilliant light. She targeted Justice's grotesque limbs once more, delivering a series of precise strikes aimed at severing its joints and weakening its structure. Her Keyblade cut through the rotting flesh and darkness alike, leaving deep gashes in its wake. Each swing of her Keyblade was a testament to her skill and determination, her movements fluid and precise as she aimed for the creature's weakest points.
Mickey was next, raising his Spellbinder Keyblade high.
"Thunder!" he shouted, sending bolts of lightning crashing down onto Justice. The electricity crackled through the frozen creature's body. Mickey followed up with a swift combination of magical attacks, each spell adding to the growing damage inflicted on the abomination.
Up next was Shadow, who utilised his Chaos Control, teleporting to strategic points around the monstrous creature. With each reappearance, Shadow launched a series of homing attacks, targeting key areas on Justice's grotesque form. The force of Shadow's speed and velocity struck hard against the frozen menace, each hit landing with a resounding impact that sent shockwaves through the air.
"We need to keep up the pressure!" Aqua urged, her voice filled with determination as she continued to target the creature's joints with her Master's Defender Keyblade.
However, Justice managed to break free from the temporal hold of Stopza, its limbs swinging wildly in an attempt to crush its assailants. The creature's claws and serpentine tongue lashed out with vicious intent, narrowly missing Mickey as he rolled out of the way just in time. Aqua and Shadow dodged and weaved through the onslaught, each utilizing their unique abilities to stay one step ahead of the enraged monster.
"Let's give it everything we've got!" Shadow replied, his Chaos energy crackling with intensity.
The environment around them was a chaotic mess of crumbling buildings and twisted metal. The ruins of Station Square provided both obstacles and cover, and the trio used the debris to their advantage, dodging behind broken walls and leaping over overturned cars which were scattered around the plaza.
Mickey summoned his strength and cast a series of spells to keep Justice at bay.
"Fira! Blizzaga! Thundaga!"
Each spell landed with explosive force, staggering the creature and leaving it vulnerable to follow-up attacks.
Shadow teleported around Justice, using Chaos Control to deliver a barrage of rapid strikes.
"Chaos Spear!" he shouted, launching energy projectiles that pierced the creature's hide, leaving smoking wounds. His speed and precision kept Justice off balance, preventing it from focusing on a single target.
Aqua saw an opening and dashed forward, her Keyblade glowing with a brilliant light.
"For the light!" she cried, delivering a series of powerful blows to the creature's limbs. Her strikes were precise, aiming for the joints and weak points that would weaken Justice's structure.
Justice roared in fury, its movements becoming more erratic as it struggled to fend off the relentless assault. The creature lashed out with its serpentine tongue, narrowly missing Aqua as she rolled to the side and counterattacked with a burst of magic.
As the battle reached its final phase, the trio knew they needed to combine their powers to deliver the decisive blow. Aqua, Mickey, and Shadow positioned themselves around Justice, ready to unleash their ultimate attacks.
Mickey began, summoning all his strength and magic.
"Holy!" he cried, casting a powerful spell that created a blinding sphere of light, engulfing Justice and causing it to shriek in agony.
Shadow gathered all his Chaos energy, his body crackling with dark power.
"Chaos Blast!" he shouted, releasing an enormous explosion of red and black energy that tore through the creature, further weakening it.
Aqua focused her magic, her Keyblade shining with pure light.
"Lightbloom!" Aqua called out, unleashing a devastating burst of light that combined with Mickey's Holy and Shadow's Chaos Blast.
The radiant beams pierced through Justice, the combined power of their attacks rocking the monstrous form. The triple combo was too much, and the creature began to break apart. Justice let out a final, deafening roar as the light and dark energies overwhelmed it.
The beams of light and dark energy converged on Justice, searing through its corrupted flesh. The creature convulsed violently, its body writhing in agony as the immense power tore it apart from the inside.
The dark aura surrounding Justice flickered and sputtered, unable to withstand the onslaught of pure energy. Cracks formed across its grotesque body, emitting blinding light that burst forth like molten lava. The light intensified, growing brighter and brighter until the entire form of Justice was engulfed in a radiant explosion.
The force of the explosion sent shockwaves through the ruins of Station Square, shaking the ground and toppling the remnants of crumbling buildings. The air was filled with a deafening roar, the final cry of a creature defeated by the unwavering resolve of light and darkness combined. As the light reached its peak, Justice's body convulsed one last time before disintegrating into dust and shadows.
The particles of darkness were swept away by the force of the explosion, dissolving into the air and leaving nothing behind but the faint echo of their previous malevolence. The once oppressive presence of Justice was no more, replaced by a profound silence that blanketed the plaza.
As the light faded, the area around them was left illuminated by the faint glow of Shadow's red aura and the shimmering light of Aqua and Mickey's Keyblades. The trio stood amidst the remnants of the fierce battle, their breaths heavy but their spirits unbroken.
"Justice has been served," Aqua whispered to herself. "You won't harm the light anymore."
Shadow folded his arms in his usual calm and collected demeanour, satisfied with the outcome of the battle.
"Another one bites the dust," he remarked, his voice carrying a cool, unwavering confidence.
Mickey nodded, his face determined yet relieved.
"We did it together. That's the power of unity."
RANK: A
So much for Goldman's ideologies," Shadow said, his arms folded and turning to his two allies. "Another madman driven by corruption and darkness."
"I think he was beyond reasoning or help," Aqua admitted, her voice tinged with a hint of sadness.
"He sure was a strange one," Mickey retorted, shaking his head in disbelief.
Shadow and Aqua nodded in agreement. They had faced many enemies and agents of darkness across this dark realm, but Goldman had proven to be one of the most twisted and deluded threat yet.
"We need to keep moving," Shadow remarked, refocusing on their mission. "Let's find this Keyblade and end Mephiles and Ansem's plans."
"And reunite with Oscura," Aqua replied, her voice hopeful. "I think she is ready to become one with me again."
"Right, we have a lot to do, and not a lot of time to do it in," Mickey admitted, his face etched with concern.
Shadow unfolded his arms and began to walk ahead.
"Follow me, this way will lead to the exit of Station Square," he affirmed, taking the lead.
The trio moved through the remnants of the devastated city, their footsteps echoing in the silence that followed the fierce battle. The streets were littered with debris, and the air was thick with the lingering scent of darkness. Yet, amidst the ruins, there was a sense of accomplishment, a victory hard-won against the forces of corruption and madness.
Aqua walked beside Mickey, her thoughts drifting to Oscura. The two of them had been separated for too long, and the prospect of reuniting filled her with a renewed sense of purpose. She knew that their journey was far from over, but with every step, she was closer to restoring her heart and memories.
Mickey, ever the optimist, tried to lighten the mood.
"You know, once we get through this, I'm thinking a vacation might be in order."
Shadow, still walking ahead, turned his head slightly to look back and cracked a rare grin.
"I suggest a trip to Emerald Coast or Seaside Hill, Mickey."
"Hey, when did you become an expert on vacation hotspots, Shadow?" Aqua smiled, her voice teasing.
Shadow turned his head forward again and gave off a huff in response, but his smile remained.
"Even I need a break sometimes," he replied, his tone light yet carrying the weight of their shared experiences.
Mickey chuckled, "Emerald Coast does sound nice. We'll have to make sure everyone else can come along too. It'll be a big celebration."
"I think we all deserve it. But first, we have a mission to complete," Aqua declared.
As they continued, the environment around them began to shift. The oppressive ruins of Station Square gave way to a more open but dark landscape, where the remnants of the city's outskirts slowly transformed into a pathway leading toward the heart of their next challenge. The air felt lighter, though the lingering presence of darkness was still palpable.
The road toward the Keyblade of this Realm seemed far and treacherous, but with the three heroes working together, not even the darkness could stop them.
[WN: This was a fun chapter to write up, especially with the crossover between KH and HOTD Overkill, I look forward to diving deeper into Terra, Aqua and Ven's stories dealing the events of Overkill, teaming with Washington, G and Varla. How would you find this clash of genres in the Birth By Sleep story? It's a mad idea, but stranger things have been written (trust me, I'm trying to piece together a Charmed and Deadpool Crossover). Also, did you find in the last chapter a good stepping stone for Silver's inclusion in the Birth By Sleep part of the arc? I think Silver being sent back to track and take out the Wayfinder Trio could be a great story to follow and could lead into why he was at Hollow Bastion to help Sora. Maybe Silver knows more than he is letting on?]