Disclaimer: I do not own the copyright for these two franchises.They belong to Square Enix and HoyoVerse respectively.
Kingdom Hearts III.5: A journey on Teyvat
Chapter 06: Predestined Encounters
The twilight bathed the landscape of Teyvat in a golden glow, but a strange shadow seemed to linger over the lands surrounding Mondstadt. At the top of a hill overlooking the Dadaupa Gorge, Aether wiped the sweat from his forehead, his breathing still heavy from the effort it took to fend off the dark creatures that had appeared without warning. He took one last look at the traces left behind by the battle, the ground scarred by impacts and dark shards slowly dissipating into the air.
Paimon, usually cheerful, flew around him with a more worried expression than usual. The silence surrounding them now was almost deafening, a stark contrast to the chaos that had reigned moments before.
Paimon: Aether, you finally beat them! Paimon is so relieved! But... what were those creatures anyway? Paimon never seen anything like that before.
Aether, still catching his breath, slowly sheathed his sword, his thoughts clouded by the strangeness of the encounter. He squinted his eyes, staring at the horizon as if searching for answers. He responded to Paimon in a calm but concerned voice.
Aether: I don't know, Paimon… They came out of nowhere, and they weren't like Hilichurls or the Fatui. This was something… different, darker. Almost like they don't belong in this world.
Paimon floated closer to him, looking anxious, crossing her arms as if to comfort herself.
Paimon: But why would they be here, in Mondstadt? Do you think they have something to do with the Abyss Order?
Aether shook his head, uncertain.
Aether: I don't know, but I don't like it. We can't stay here and do nothing. We need to head back to Mondstadt and warn Jean and the others about what happened. They need to know what we've discovered and prepare accordingly.
Paimon nodded, looking calmer but still concerned.
Paimon: Okay, but we should be careful on the way. If those creatures were here, there might be more of them around.
Aether gave a nod, taking a deep breath. He knew that every moment counted. Mondstadt's safety depended on their speed.
Aether: You're right. Let's stay cautious. Let's go.
The path back to Mondstadt stretched ahead of them, illuminated by the last rays of the day. As they walked, Aether couldn't shake the strange tension in the air, as if an invisible threat still lingered, ready to strike again.
(Genshin Impact OST - Make Haste, Partner)
Meanwhile, Sora, Amber, and Kaeya hurried toward Springvale, followed closely by a group of knights of Favonius. The news that a group of Heartless had escaped their previous battle and were heading toward the small village had sparked growing concern. The urgency was palpable in the cool evening air.
The group moved at an impressive pace, their footsteps echoing along the winding paths leading to Springvale. Tension was etched on their faces, their determination evident in every stride. Leading the way, Kaeya scanned the horizon with his sharp eyes, while Sora and Amber remained ready to react at any moment.
Kaeya: We still have a little way to go before we reach Springvale. We need to hurry. If they attack the village, the residents will be completely defenseless.
Sora: We can't let them get there. Those people aren't equipped to defend themselves against the Heartless.
Amber, running alongside Sora, felt the weight of urgency bearing down on her. She knew Springvale well, having visited it before on scouting missions. The thought of that peaceful hamlet being ravaged by Heartless tightened her chest.
Amber: We're going to stop them. I refuse to let those innocent people be attacked.
Sora turned to Kaeya, his expression marked by silent determination.
Sora: We need to be prepared for anything. It's possible the Heartless have already started causing chaos in Springvale. If that's the case, we'll have to act fast and make sure the damage is kept to a minimum.
Kaeya nodded in agreement, his usual smile replaced by a resolute expression.
Kaeya: I agree with you. As soon as we arrive, we need to focus on protecting the civilians and eliminating the Heartless quickly.
As they neared Springvale, the flickering lights of lanterns and hearths began to appear in the distance, a reassuring contrast to the growing shadows. However, the looming threat of the creatures possibly attacking weighed heavily on them.
Not far from Springvale, deep within a dense forest, the stillness was interrupted by the light rustling of leaves and the soft crunch of twigs under the agile steps of a young girl. Her slender figure wove gracefully between the trees with an almost feline fluidity. Though petite in stature, she moved with quiet confidence. Her short pink hair framed her face, and atop her head, two cat ears stood alert, picking up every sound around her, while a feline tail swayed gently behind her.
This girl was Diona, the bartender of a Mondstadt tavern called the "Cat's Tail." But today, she wasn't serving drinks. She had a very different goal in mind. With a focused expression, she collected all sorts of ingredients scattered throughout the forest. From strange mushrooms to fragrant herbs, even a few insects she skillfully captured, everything ended up in her bag.
Diona: Heh, with this, I'll finally make a concoction so disgusting that Mondstadters will never want to touch alcohol again… no one will drink another drop after this!
She muttered to herself, her voice filled with determination. Her disdain for alcohol was well-known in Mondstadt, and she was dead set on using her talents to brew a drink so repulsive that even the most dedicated drinker wouldn't want to taste it.
After gathering everything that seemed potentially useful (or useless, depending on the perspective), Diona felt satisfied. She gave one last glance around to make sure she hadn't missed anything. Her bag now full, she was about to head back to Mondstadt to test her new recipes when an odd feeling washed over her.
Her feline instincts, always on high alert, sent her a warning. Something was wrong. She froze in place, her ears twitching as they stood upright, scanning her surroundings. The sudden heavy silence that enveloped the forest heightened her sense of unease.
Not far from Springvale, deep within a dense forest, the stillness was interrupted by the light rustling of leaves and the soft crunch of twigs under the agile steps of a young girl. Her slender figure wove gracefully between the trees with an almost feline fluidity. Though petite in stature, she moved with quiet confidence. Her short pink hair framed her face, and atop her head, two cat ears stood alert, picking up every sound around her, while a feline tail swayed gently behind her.
This girl was Diona, the bartender of a Mondstadt tavern called the "Cat's Tail." But today, she wasn't serving drinks. She had a very different goal in mind. With a focused expression, she collected all sorts of ingredients scattered throughout the forest. From strange mushrooms to fragrant herbs, even a few insects she skillfully captured, everything ended up in her bag.
Diona: Heh, with this, I'll finally make a concoction so disgusting that Mondstadters will never want to touch alcohol again… no one will drink another drop after this!
She muttered to herself, her voice filled with determination. Her disdain for alcohol was well-known in Mondstadt, and she was dead set on using her talents to brew a drink so repulsive that even the most dedicated drinker wouldn't want to taste it.
After gathering everything that seemed potentially useful (or useless, depending on the perspective), Diona felt satisfied. She gave one last glance around to make sure she hadn't missed anything. Her bag now full, she was about to head back to Mondstadt to test her new recipes when an odd feeling washed over her.
Her feline instincts, always on high alert, sent her a warning. Something was wrong. She froze in place, her ears twitching as they stood upright, scanning her surroundings. The sudden heavy silence that enveloped the forest heightened her sense of unease.
Diona: What the…?
She began turning slowly, scanning for the source of her unease. The trees seemed to close in, the shadows growing deeper. Then, without warning, a Heartless sprang up from the ground just a few meters away, its claws reaching out in a sneaky attempt to attack her by surprise.
Diona reacted instinctively. With a swift leap, she dodged the attack with feline agility, landing in a crouched position. Her hand quickly grabbed the bow she carried with her, and in the blink of an eye, she fired a precise arrow that pierced through the dark creature, causing it to vanish in a puff of black smoke.
Surprised, Diona stood frozen for a moment, staring at the spot where the creature had been. What was that thing? She had never seen anything like it in the forest before. Her heart was pounding, but she didn't have time to think further. A series of dull thuds echoed around her, and she spun just in time to see several more creatures emerging from the shadows, their glowing yellow eyes shining with a sinister light.
Diona: What are these things?!
She gripped her bow tighter, her eyes narrowing as she quickly assessed the situation. The creatures seemed to be multiplying, slowly encircling her. But Diona wasn't one to be easily intimidated. She took a deep breath, preparing another arrow.
Diona: If you think I'm just some helpless little kitten, you're dead wrong!
(Kingdom Hearts OST - Kingdom Hearts OST Heartless Theme)
Without a second's hesitation, she fired another arrow, this time channeling her Cryo power to infuse it with freezing energy. The arrow struck the ground between the creatures, triggering a wave of ice that spread out instantly, freezing the shadows that dared to approach.
Despite the temporary advantage, Diona knew the situation was dangerous. The Heartless weren't ordinary enemies, and she couldn't afford to underestimate them.
Diona: I need to take them out quickly before they overwhelm me!
The creatures backed away slightly, but their menacing posture made it clear they wouldn't retreat so easily. With her sharp gaze focused, Diona prepared to stand her ground, determined not to let them gain the upper hand. Yet deep inside, a growing sense of unease crept in. Were these creatures really acting alone, or were there more—stronger ones—waiting in the shadows, preparing to strike?
Regardless, Diona had always been a fighter. Small but fierce, she never allowed herself to be intimidated, whether behind the bar at the "Cat's Tail" or deep in the forest. But now, she was facing something far more unsettling than what she was used to.
The Heartless, emerging from nowhere, continued to surround her. Diona, bow in hand, fired arrow after arrow, each shot hitting its mark with icy precision. Her Cryo-infused arrows sliced through the air, freezing and shattering the creatures that dared to get too close.
Diona: Come on, then! Let's see what you're made of!
She spoke aloud, perhaps to reassure herself as much as to intimidate the silent creatures. The forest had fallen into an almost supernatural quiet, as if it held its breath, watching the scene unfold. Diona, her feline instincts on high alert, moved swiftly—shooting, dodging, and staying ahead of the growing numbers.
The Shadows, with their ability to meld into the ground, attempted to surprise her, but Diona was too fast. She anticipated their moves with an animal-like intuition, firing arrows at the precise moment they emerged from the darkness, reducing them to black smoke before they could reach her.
But even as she watched these creatures vanish one by one, an unsettling feeling lingered. These things were far from normal. They had nothing in common with the Hilichurls or the usual monsters she encountered outside of Mondstadt.
Diona: What are these horrors? And why are they here?
She muttered to herself as she wiped the sweat from her forehead, her eyes scanning the surrounding forest for any new threats. But the silence was slowly returning, as if the forest itself was exhaling after the assault.
After one last cautious look around, Diona lowered her bow, feeling the tension ease ever so slightly. Yet the relief was short-lived. A sudden, frightening thought flashed through her mind.
Diona: Springvale... Oh no!
Her heart clenched. The close proximity between the forest and her home village, Springvale, only fueled her growing dread. If these creatures had shown up here, what was stopping them from attacking Springvale? She knew the route she'd just taken—it wouldn't have taken the Heartless long to reach the village.
A wave of worry surged through her, stronger than anything she'd felt so far. Her thoughts immediately went to her father, who still lived there. Panic began to creep in, her imagination conjuring images of her village in flames, terrified villagers, and her father in grave danger.
Diona: No, I can't let that happen! I have to get there. Now!
Her face, usually calm and collected, hardened with determination. She quickly secured her bow, her ears perking up as she made her decision.
Without wasting a second, Diona broke into a run, her steps light and swift on the forest floor. Every second counted, and the thought of her village being under attack pushed her to move even faster. She knew the path well, dodging roots and branches like a feline in pursuit, her focus solely on her goal.
Diona: Hang in there, dad...
Worry gnawed at her. She couldn't bear the thought of losing someone dear to her, especially not her father, to these mysterious creatures. The wind seemed to whistle in her ears, as if urging her to go faster, to never stop.
The trees blurred past her, and soon, the first glimmers of Springvale's homes appeared on the horizon. But instead of relief, anxiety surged within her. From this distance, she couldn't tell if there were any signs of a battle or if the Heartless had already attacked. One thing fueled her now: the hope that everything was still intact.
Diona: Please… let there be no casualties… let me not be too late…
She pushed herself even harder, her breath growing ragged, every fiber of her being driven by the hope of saving those who mattered to her. Diona reached Springvale, her heart pounding wildly, cold sweat beading on her forehead. As soon as she crossed the first row of houses, her worst fears were confirmed. The Heartless—the creatures she had fought—were already there, wreaking havoc in the streets of her home village.
The villagers, usually so calm and busy with their daily tasks, were now engulfed in panic. Some were surrounded by Shadows or Soldiers, the creatures ready to strike at the slightest mistake. Others tried to defend their homes, wielding crude bows and swords, but they were clearly outnumbered and overwhelmed by the Heartless' agility.
Some homes were partially destroyed, roofs caved in, doors torn from their hinges. Flames licked the wooden walls of a few buildings, while desperate villagers tried to douse the fires with buckets of water. A sense of helplessness washed over Diona as she grasped the extent of the devastation.
Diona: No, no, no… Not here… not my home…
She bit her lip, trying to hold back the anxiety that threatened to overwhelm her. There was no time to waste. Her father, her friends, everything she loved in this village was in danger.
Diona: I have to protect them… I have to do something!
Without hesitation, she grabbed her bow and plunged into the fray. She quickly spotted a group of villagers, mostly hunters, who were cornered by a horde of Air Soldiers. The creatures circled around them, taking advantage of their speed to strike at the slightest opening.
Diona: There's no way you're hurting them!
She aimed swiftly and fired several cryo arrows at the first group of Heartless. The arrows struck multiple targets simultaneously, freezing the creatures in place. The hunters, surprised by the intervention, turned their heads to see Diona, determined, rushing to their aid.
Hunter: Diona! Thank you!
Diona, her expression serious and focused, nodded in response.
Diona: No problem. By the way, have you seen my father?
Hunter: Draff? I think he went in that direction. He's trying to guide as many people as possible to safety.
Diona: Dad… I'm going to join him! As for you, go help the others! Let's not waste any more time!
Hunter: Understood!
The hunters, reassured by her presence, dispersed to assist other villagers. But Diona didn't have the luxury to celebrate. She heard a piercing scream nearby, and her heart raced. She sprinted through the alleys, her feet pounding on the cobblestone. Each cry, each sound of battle heightened her alarm. Finally, she spotted a small square where several Heartless surrounded a group of villagers, including her father. He was wielding his bow, looking resolute but clearly exhausted from the fight.
Alan: Draff-san, there are too many of them. We're going to be overwhelmed if this keeps up!
Draff: I'm not blind, Alan. I see very well the mess we're in. But we have to hold our ground! Don't let them get any closer!
Diona could see that the group wouldn't last much longer. The Shadows were slipping through their defenses, ready to strike.
Diona: Dad!
She jumped into the square, her bow drawn. She fired a rapid series of arrows, each one hitting its mark. The Heartless, caught off guard by the sudden attack, recoiled slightly, allowing her father and the others to catch their breath.
Draff: Diona! Are you okay?
He looked at her with a mix of pride and relief. But Diona didn't have time for reunions.
Diona: I'm fine, yes. And you, will you be okay?
Draff: More scared than hurt. As soon as I saw those creatures about to attack the innocent behind me, Alan and I had to protect them at all costs.
Alan: Yeah, but I don't know how much longer we could have held out. This is the first time I've seen creatures this terrifying. Not to mention they can move through the ground. It's really unnatural!
Draff: Stop being so negative, Alan. But I have to admit one thing. I've never seen creatures like these, outside of Hilichurls and other monsters. Where are they coming from?
Diona: I don't know... They attacked me too while I was walking in the forest. I've faced them before, but I don't know what they are. Dad, we have to eliminate them before they cause more damage. I'll handle it, you go with the others and get to safety.
Draff: What? Diona, are you crazy? You should be the one leaving with the others! Let me take care of these creatures. My duty is to protect you, no matter what!
Draff's face was marked by worry as he looked at his daughter with paternal intensity. Diona gritted her teeth and met his gaze with unwavering firmness.
Diona: Dad, stop treating me like a little girl! I'm not someone you need to protect at all costs anymore. Out of all of us, I'm the best equipped to fight them with my Vision. I can defend myself and protect others!
She looked her father in the eyes, her determination shining brighter than ever.
Diona: You need to leave. I know what I'm doing, and I won't let you sacrifice yourself unnecessarily. The villagers need you. Dad, go help them get to safety. I'll take care of these creatures.
Draff opened his mouth to reply, but no words came out. He knew his daughter's strength. She had proven time and again that she could defend herself and even protect others. But still, the fatherly instinct within him urged him to protect her, to not let her face such unpredictable danger.
Draff: Diona...
He lowered his head, his shoulders slightly slumped under the weight of his anxiety. But he knew she was right. He couldn't risk the lives of all those villagers, or his daughter's, by refusing to give in.
Draff: Very well... I'll lead them to safety. But promise me you'll take care of yourself, Diona.
Diona nodded, her expression softened by the worry she saw in her father's eyes.
Diona: I promise you, Dad. Don't worry about me. Now go, I don't want to see you hurt.
As the Heartless regrouped around Diona, she gripped her bow with determination, resolved to stand her ground to allow her father and the villagers to escape safely. She shot arrow after arrow, each projectile hitting its target with icy precision, slowing the creatures long enough for Draff to guide the others away from danger.
Diona: Come on, hold on...
She murmured to herself, her eyes watching both the Heartless and her father's progress.
But just as Draff and the group moved away, a sudden movement at the edge of her vision made her jump. A small group of Heartless had emerged from the shadows, stealthily slipping toward the villagers.
Diona: Dad!
Draff turned around, his eyes wide, just in time to see the creatures leap toward him.
Horrified by what she saw, time seemed to slow down for Diona, her heart racing wildly. She knew she wouldn't have time to shoot an arrow to stop them. Draff and the group of villagers were now ambushed by a small group of Heartless. Panic tightened her chest. She was paralyzed by the fear of seeing him hurt or worse, losing him.
Draff: Hurry, go! Don't stop!
Draff commanded the villagers to flee, but the group was now facing the Heartless charging toward them. One of the Heartless launched an attack, directly threatening Draff and the others. Diona's heart raced as she realized she couldn't intervene in time.
Diona: Dad, no!
But before she could react, a figure slipped between the Heartless and Draff. A Keyblade sparkled in the air, slicing through with a speed and precision that was breathtaking. In an instant, the creatures were reduced to a fine black dust that dissipated into the air.
(Kingdom Hearts OST - Hand in Hand)
Draff and Diona stood frozen for a moment, unable to comprehend what just happened. The young boy who had saved them turned to Draff, his expression serious yet gentle.
"Is everyone okay?"
Draff, catching his breath, nodded.
Draff: Yes… Yes, thank you. You arrived just in time.
Diona, still in shock, rushed toward her father, her eyes shining with relief.
Diona: Dad! Are you hurt!?
She threw herself into his arms, squeezing him with a force she hadn't realized she had. Draff held her close, his hands trembling, but he smiled to reassure her.
Draff: I'm fine, thanks to this young man Diona, calm down; everything is okay.
Diona then turned to the boy, gratitude overflowing from her eyes.
Diona: Thank you so much! You… you saved my dad. I don't know how to thank you.
The boy, looking a bit embarrassed by all the gratitude, shook his head.
"It's nothing. I'm just glad I made it in time."
Diona looked at him with curiosity, aware that this stranger was not just an ordinary traveler.
Diona: What's your name?
The young boy smiled.
Sora: My name is Sora.
At that moment, two other figures arrived, rushing toward Sora. Diona immediately recognized them: it was Amber and Kaeya.
Amber: Sora! Are you okay?
Kaeya: We saw you took off ahead; we were worried.
Diona, a bit surprised to see both of them here, looked up at them.
Diona: Amber? Kaeya? What are you doing here?
Amber: Diona! Are you alright?
Diona: Yes, we're fine thanks to Sora here. I'm really grateful for your help.
Kaeya, always calm, added with a smirk.
Kaeya: I see. It seems you've already made friends with our new companion. To answer your question, we heard that Springvale was in danger. We came to help. And it looks like we arrived just in time.
Sora: Yes, it seems things are more complicated than expected. The Heartless have caused a lot of damage. But thankfully, there don't seem to be any casualties so far.
Diona: Heartless? Wait, is that what these creatures are called?
Diona stared at Sora with a mix of surprise and confusion. The name "Heartless" lingered in her mind, adding a layer of concern to the situation. Kaeya, noticing her distress, stepped closer to her, his gaze more serious.
Kaeya: Yes, these creatures are called Heartless. From what Sora has told us, they are mysterious entities that seem to be attracted to people's hearts. Their appearance here is concerning.
Amber nodded, clearly torn between the urgency of the situation and the need to reassure Diona.
Amber: We don't know exactly where they come from, but they've already caused trouble around Windrise. That's why we rushed here.
Diona clenched her fists, a mix of courage and determination in her eyes.
Diona: I won't let these things destroy my home...
Sora, watching the young girl, took a step forward.
Sora: We won't allow that, Diona. We're going to stop them together. If these creatures are drawn to hearts, then we must protect the people of Springvale and ensure they stay safe.
Diona looked at Sora, then at her father, who gave her a reassuring smile.
Draff: Diona, I know you're strong. With people like them, I know you have nothing to fear. We'll do everything we can to protect our village, together.
Diona: Dad… Hmm! So, what are we waiting for? Let's make sure these things disappear once and for all!
Kaeya, scanning the area, made a quick decision.
Kaeya: We need to split up to cover more ground. Amber, take some knights and ensure the villagers are protected near their homes. Sora and I will take care of what's left of the Heartless in the area. Diona, can you secure the surroundings?
Diona nodded, her determination renewed.
Diona: Got it. Dad, stay close to me. I'll make sure that neither you nor anyone else gets hurt.
Draff placed a hand on his daughter's shoulder, undeniable pride in his eyes.
Draff: I'm with you, my daughter.
The villagers, guided by Diona and Draff, quickly moved away from Sora and his group. The latter found themselves alone against a new wave of Heartless emerging from the shadows. Sora, Keyblade in hand, exchanged a quick glance with his friends.
Sora: Are you ready?
Amber: More than ready!
Kaeya: Let's be quick and efficient.
The trio then charged into battle, determined to push back these creatures before they could cause any more destruction.
Further along the road leading to Mondstadt, Aether and Paimon moved quickly, the wind of urgency at their backs. They knew they had to inform Jean about the mysterious monsters they had discovered, but suddenly, Aether was troubled by something. He stopped, casting a worried glance around.
Paimon: What's wrong, Aether?
Aether furrowed his brows, feeling a strange sense of foreboding. He turned his gaze toward the horizon, and his eyes widened. In the distance, black smoke was rising into the sky, as if a fire was raging through homes.
Aether: Over there, it's smoke!
Paimon: You're right. It looks like it's headed toward Springvale… Oh no! Do you think those creatures are attacking Springvale right now?
Aether: If that's true… we need to help them, and fast!
Without wasting another moment, Aether and Paimon changed direction, racing toward Springvale, worry etched on their faces.
Sora stood at the center of the square, surrounded by the Heartless. He had temporarily separated from Amber and Kaeya so they could cover more ground in their battles against the creatures.
He scanned the battlefield, observing the movements of the Heartless. Suddenly, a group of Shadows lunged toward him. He made an agile leap, evading the wild attacks of the Heartless. Brandishing his Keyblade, Sora charged into the fray. He jumped into the air, executing a series of spinning strikes that swept away the nearest creatures. As he landed, he thrust his Keyblade into the ground, unleashing a shockwave of light that pushed back the remaining Heartless. The creatures recoiled, but only for a moment. They were numerous and seemed endless, emerging from the shadows as if drawn to the light of Sora's heart.
That was what the young Keyblade Master hoped for. He would much rather be the target of all the attacks than let the Heartless harm innocents. Despite their numbers, Sora showed no signs of fatigue. He dodged effortlessly, anticipating his enemies' attacks, and retaliated with devastating efficiency. A Large Body tried to surprise him from behind, but sensing the danger, Sora turned just in time. He parried with all his strength, sending the creature flying backward, quickly moving to its side before throwing his Keyblade at it, reducing it to dust with a final strike.
Sora knew he couldn't afford to let his guard down, not even for a moment. Each Heartless he eliminated seemed to be replaced by two more, but he refused to succumb to panic. His determination and resolve were unwavering. He fought not only for Sprinvale but to protect everyone who depended on him and to prevent these creatures from causing further suffering.
As he continued to battle, Sora felt the presence of danger surrounding him, but he was also aware that his fight was drawing more and more Heartless toward him, keeping them away from the villagers. It was a never-ending battle, but Sora did not falter. He was ready to go all the way to save this village and protect the innocent hearts threatened by this darkness.
This situation reminded him of his visit to Olympus, where he had once found himself in a similar position. Hoping to regain his powers, Sora had gone to Hercules for advice, unaware that Thebes, the city under the demi-god's protection, had been targeted by an attack from Heartless sent by Hades. Sora had done everything he could to eliminate the Heartless and save as many victims as possible. At that moment, like in Thebes, Sora became a shield for Springvale, a bulwark against the darkness that threatened to engulf everything in its path. And as long as he stood there, Keyblade in hand, he would not let anything happen to this village.
After eliminating another group of Heartless, Sora took a moment to assess the situation around him. His eyes scanned the battlefield, searching for signs of his companions. Not far away, he spotted Kaeya, elegantly dodging the creatures' attacks while countering with precision. Kaeya appeared calm, each movement calculated, every strike delivered with a finesse that reflected his experience as a knight.
A little further, Sora saw Amber, her bow drawn, firing arrow after arrow with impressive speed. Her flaming shots lit up the square, piercing Shadows and Soldiers with unwavering accuracy. Her agility allowed her to stay in constant motion, evading the Heartless while protecting the villagers. Sora offered a slight smile, reassured by their skill and determination.
However, his gaze quickly shifted to the knights of Mondstadt, scattered around the square. Though they fought valiantly, it was clear they were struggling to contain the Heartless. Their formations were breaking under the pressure, and some were beginning to show signs of fatigue.
A protective urge surged within Sora. These knights, though trained, were not accustomed to facing such formidable creatures. The Heartless were unlike anything they had encountered before—far more insidious opponents than the bandits or usual monsters of Mondstadt's lands.
Making a swift decision, Sora tightened his grip on his Keyblade. He knew he had to support them. Without wasting a second, he rushed toward the most troubled group.
Sora: Hang on!
He shouted as he dove into the fray.
He interposed his weapon between a gasping knight and a Heartless about to deliver a fatal blow. With a fluid motion, Sora pushed the creature back with a powerful swipe, then followed up with a series of quick attacks, scattering the Heartless that threatened to overwhelm the knights.
Sora: We need to stick together. Let's fight as a team. Stay close to each other, and I'll make sure nothing happens to you.
The knights, encouraged by Sora's intervention, regrouped around him, regaining hope. With Sora at their side, their morale strengthened, and they redoubled their efforts to push back the Heartless. Sora led them, using his Keyblade not only to fight but also to inspire and protect these brave soldiers.
While keeping his focus on the knights, Sora remained vigilant, ready to step in at any moment if Amber or Kaeya needed help. But for now, his priority was clear: support those who needed it most so that together, they could overcome this trial and protect Springvale.
Kaeya, as graceful as ever in his movements, fought with icy elegance. Between strikes, he cast a glance at Sora. The young Keyblade Master stood among the knights, protecting them with fierce determination. Kaeya couldn't help but smile, his usual mischievous expression softening slightly.
Kaeya: Interesting...
He murmured to himself, dodging an attack from a Heartless with a simple sidestep.
He watched Sora rally the knights, infusing them with renewed courage. This boy from another world not only displayed exceptional combat skills but also had a natural ability to inspire those around him. Kaeya knew that such a quality was rare and invaluable.
Kaeya: This boy really has something special...
He thought, his smile widening.
Kaeya: He's a valuable asset for Mondstadt. I'm curious to see how far he will go.
As he continued to fight the Heartless, Kaeya kept an eye on Sora, grateful for his intervention and admiring his ability to unite others around him.
Not far away, Amber, always on the move, was shooting arrows. Between shots, her gaze landed on Sora, and a genuine joy filled her heart. Seeing this young hero give his all to protect not only his city but also its people warmed her naturally optimistic spirit.
Amber: Sora...
She murmured with a smile, feeling a wave of emotion wash over her.
She still remembered their first meeting, the kindness and determination he had shown. Now, seeing him fight alongside the knights reinforced her belief that they had found an invaluable ally.
Amber: He's someone we can rely on, just like the Traveler!
She thought, her heart overflowing with gratitude.
Amber, galvanized by Sora's example, redoubled her efforts to protect the people of Springvale. She knew that as long as they fought together, they could overcome any obstacle. Seeing Sora struggle with such determination motivated her even more to give her best for their common cause.
Sora continued to fight fiercely against the Heartless. Each strike of his Keyblade sent the dark creatures dissolving into black smoke, but despite his efforts, their numbers seemed endless. He knew he had to hold the line to allow the villagers to find safety, but the situation was becoming increasingly difficult to manage alone.
Sora realized he couldn't maintain this defense forever. The Heartless were too numerous, and his allies, Kaeya and Amber, had their own battles to fight. The knights, despite their bravery, were struggling to push back the creatures. The situation was becoming critical, and Sora began to fear that casualties would be inevitable.
In the distance, screams rang out. A group of villagers was surrounded by Heartless. Sora, realizing the danger, tried to rush to their aid, but the creatures were too many.
Sora: Oh no, I won't make it in time!
Just as he dreaded the worst, the Heartless were suddenly sliced apart by a series of quick and precise strikes, instantly dissolving into black smoke. Sora turned to see who had saved the villagers. He discovered a young man with blond hair, dressed in beige and brown clothing, wielding a sword with impressive skill. Beside him, a small girl in a white outfit gently landed on the ground. The little girl, visibly relieved to have arrived in time, expressed her disappointment at not being able to prevent all the damage.
Paimon: We arrived just in time, but not fast enough to prevent all this chaos.
The little girl said with a mix of relief and concern as she surveyed the area.
The young man nodded, his eyes scanning the scene to ensure there were no more villagers in danger.
Aether: As long as there are no casualties, that's what matters most.
The little girl approached the villagers.
Paimon: Are you all okay?
Villager: Yes, thank you! Thank you for your help!
The young man nodded to them.
Aether: Get to safety now. It's not over yet.
The villagers nodded and began to run toward a safer place, while more Heartless appeared around the young man and the little girl. She frowned, clearly annoyed.
Paimon: Ahhh! They keep coming back non-stop! This is unbearable.
Aether: Calm down, Paimon. I know it's exhausting, but we have to take them out, no matter what.
The young man replied determinedly, preparing his sword for another confrontation.
But before he could make a single move, the Heartless around him were suddenly swept away by a series of Keyblade strikes. Sora, in a flash, had come to their aid, turning the creatures to dust in an instant. Astonished, Paimon and Aether watched the young Keyblade hero with a mix of curiosity and surprise. Paimon, puzzled, wondered who this new ally was.
Paimon: Who is he?
Sora approached them, a grateful smile on his face.
Sora: Thank you so much for your help. You saved those villagers from the Heartless.
Paimon, smiling, replied.
Paimon: No problem, it's what anyone willing to help would do. Wait a second… what did you say at the end?
Sora: Huh? What did I say? Well… "You saved those villagers from the Heartless."
Paimon: Wait, so that's what these scary creatures are called? The Heartless?
Sora: It looks like this is your first time encountering them, isn't it?
Paimon: You could say that! It's the first time Paimon seen such mysterious and terrifying creatures! Even their name makes me uneasy! They kept appearing everywhere, and Paimon was really scared!
Sora: Yeah, the Heartless usually leave that impression when you encounter them for the first time…
As they talked, Aether kept observing the young man. Sora noticed and turned to him, intrigued. This strange coincidence sparked a feeling of connection between them.
Aether: It's strange... I feel like I'm looking at myself in you.
Sora, surprised, slightly furrowed his brows.
Sora: Really? ... Now that you mention it, I feel the same way when I look at you. Like… we're connected in some way.
Paimon, floating beside Aether, watched the scene with a mix of astonishment and confusion.
Paimon: Um... you two are acting weird, you know that? Aether, why do you say you see yourself in him?
Still gazing at Sora, Aether quickly asked him his name.
Aether: Who... are you?
At that moment, Sora had a realization. Since his arrival in this world, everyone he had met—Amber, Kaeya, Lisa, Jean, and even Venti—had pointed out how much he resembled the famous Traveler who had saved Mondstadt. Seeing this young man make the same observation left no room for doubt. It had to be him.
Sora: Wait! Are you…?
Amber: Sora!
Hearing his name, Sora, along with Aether and Paimon, turned towards the voice. To the surprise of the latter two, they saw Amber and Kaeya approaching.
Amber: Sora! Kaeya-senpai and I finished our side of things. I hope there hasn't been too much damage.
Sora: Not anymore. A group of villagers was rescued, and it's thanks to him.
As Amber looked in the direction Sora indicated, she was genuinely surprised, relieved, and filled with joy upon recognizing the person he was pointing to.
Amber: Aether! Paimon! You're here!
Paimon: Amber! Kaeya!
Kaeya: Oh... it seems I arrived just in time for the introductions.
He said this while glancing at Sora and Aether, his smile ever-present, eager for this meeting to finally take place.
Paimon, still shocked by the recent events, turned to Amber and Kaeya with an expression of mixed curiosity and concern.
Paimon: What are you doing here?
Kaeya, still wearing his usual smile, replied in a relaxed tone.
Kaeya: We're probably doing the same thing as you, getting rid of these Heartless. We heard about the situation and decided to come lend a hand.
Amber, visibly relieved, added with a sigh of relief.
Amber: I'm really glad to see that you're okay. I was worried about you while we were gone.
Paimon, with a light smile, responded.
Paimon: It could have been worse, but we got lucky. Aether was busy cleaning the Dadaupa Gorge of Hilichurls and other monsters when we discovered these dark and terrifying creatures. We were on our way to warn Jean about this uncomfortable threat, and on the way, we saw smoke coming from Springvale. That's when we decided to rush here to see what was happening.
Kaeya, listening intently, reassured his companions.
Kaeya: Thankfully, we weren't caught off guard. We caught wind of the Heartless' arrival and received valuable advice on how to deal with them. Thanks to this young man here, we were able to prepare properly and avoid surprise attacks and potential losses.
Kaeya gestured toward Sora to highlight his crucial role in preparing for and defending against the creatures.
Aether and Paimon, feeling a bit more relieved, now understood that Jean and the others were better prepared, all thanks to this young hero's intervention. Paimon then turned to Sora to confirm his name.
Paimon: So, your name is Sora, right?
Sora, with a grateful smile, nodded.
Sora: Yes, that's right. It's an honor to finally meet you all. Amber, Jean, and the others have said so many great things about you. Especially regarding the recent crisis in Mondstadt with Dvalin and how you were able to resolve it.
Paimon: Oh, yes, haha... it seems Aether's exploits will stay in people's minds for quite a while...
Amber: That's understandable; after all, you truly are the heroes of Mondstadt! By the way, I'm so glad you're finally meeting! This is the moment I've been hoping for a long time.
Aether, with a warm smile, looked at Sora with an expression of respect and camaraderie.
Aether: The pleasure is all mine, Sora.
Sora, turning to Aether, extended his hand toward him with a gesture of trust and hope.
Sora: Now that we've had the pleasure of meeting, could you help us eliminate this threat from the Heartless?
Aether looked at the outstretched hand with a sincere smile, then shook Sora's hand firmly.
Aether: It would be my pleasure. I'd be happy to help you. We'll have plenty of time to talk and get to know each other once we resolve this crisis.
Amber, her face lit up with a hopeful smile, turned to Sora and Aether.
Amber: I'm really relieved that everyone is here to help. Together, we'll manage to overcome this challenge.
(Kingdom Hearts OST - Vim and Vigor)
Sora, surrounded by his new allies, dove back into the battle against the Heartless. Shadows crawled on the ground, attempting to encircle him, while Soldiers leaped agilely, striking toward him with their sword-like arms. Some Large Bodies rolled loudly, trying to crush everything in their path. But among these familiar creatures, a new threat emerged: Heartless with translucent, liquid bodies, floating slightly above the ground. Their undulating forms, oscillating between water and dark energy, revealed their unique nature. Upon seeing them, Paimon couldn't help but worry.
Paimon: Whoa! What are those things?
Amber: A new type of Heartless?
Sora frowned as he observed them.
Sora: Water Core...
Amber: Any advice on how to fight them, Sora?
Sora: Yes, unsurprisingly, they fight using the Water element. They can also generate shields that protect them from physical attacks and teleport them instantly. In that state, we need to break their shields using fire-based spells.
Kaeya: Interesting... It's as if we're combining the abilities of an Abyss Mage with Hydro Slime.
Amber: In that case, I'm the perfect person to take on these Heartless.
Amber, armed with her bow, quickly fired a series of flaming arrows that sliced through the air with precision. Her projectiles struck the Water Core, and upon contacting their shields, steam billowed forth, causing their defenses to evaporate, leaving them exposed.
Amber: I'll cover you from here! I'll hold them off, so you can advance!
She shot an explosive arrow that lodged itself in the center of a group of Soldier Heartless. The resulting explosion scattered the creatures, sending them flying in all directions. Focused, Amber adjusted her aim, targeting a slowly approaching Large Body.
Amber: Try to avoid this!
Her flaming arrow struck the Large Body directly, creating a powerful explosion that shook the creature. Though resilient, it staggered from the impact, allowing the knights to regroup and attack.
Meanwhile, Kaeya positioned himself closer to the ground, his piercing eyes fixed on the Heartless attempting to encircle him. His sword glinted with a cold light as he lunged into the fray. Kaeya dodged attacks with fluid grace, wielding his sword with surgical precision. Water Core charged at him, but Kaeya swiftly slipped behind them, bringing his icy blade down on the creatures, freezing them instantly.
Kaeya: As I suspected, these Heartless seem to have the same elemental weaknesses as the Hydro Slime and Abyss Mage. In that case, freezing them all should give us some breathing room.
With a swift motion of his hand, he summoned a wave of ice that surged from the ground, trapping several Water Core in frozen shards. The immobilized creatures soon dissipated under the biting cold of Kaeya's attack.
As Amber and Kaeya held off the majority of the Heartless, Aether stood slightly back, calmly observing the battlefield. His gaze fixed on a new group of Water Core approaching, their liquid forms floating dangerously toward them. He raised his hand, feeling the wind begin to swirl around him. His Anemo power awakened.
Aether: My turn.
He concentrated his energy, calling forth a powerful gust of wind. The air swirled around him, lifting debris from the ground and creating a miniature vortex. With a fluid motion, he sent a slicing gust toward the Water Core. They were drawn into the vortex, and the wind cut through them, disturbing their watery forms and significantly weakening them.
The Water Core retaliated, sending waves of dark water toward Aether. But he, agile and alert, easily dodged, rising into the air on a current of Anemo that he had summoned. The wind blew around him, giving him the appearance of a whirlwind of energy.
Aether: This will be quick.
He launched into a powerful attack, descending toward the Water Core while focusing his power into his sword. With a swift strike, he swept the air with his sword, unleashing a tornado of wind that sucked in the Water Core along with numerous Shadows and Soldiers in its path. As the tornado continued to move forward, it changed color, shifting from green to blue. Indeed, the tornado generated by Aether mingled with the watery bodies of the Water Core, infusing the gust with Hydro elements, thus dealing both wind and water damage. The Heartless were lifted from the ground, unable to resist the force of the Anemo that gradually disintegrated them.
Under the impressed gaze of his companions, Aether landed softly, his power dissipating the last traces of the creatures.
Sora: Wow, Aether! You're doing great!
Kaeya: Haha, our honorary knight is as effective as ever.
Aether responded with a smile, surveying the surroundings to ensure that the immediate threat was under control. Yet, he knew that more Heartless could return at any moment.
Aether: It's not over yet, but we're holding strong.
Sora: I'll take care of it.
At these words, Sora dove back into battle against the Heartless. The Shadows crawled along the ground, trying to encircle him, while the Soldiers leaped with agility, striking in his direction. Some massive Large Bodies rolled loudly, attempting to crush everything in their path. Finally, the remaining Water Core shot geysers of dark water while launching liquid spheres. Sora, not wasting any time, prepared to face this new group.
He jumped into the air, dodging a Soldier that tried to strike him by surprise. With a quick swing of his Keyblade, he spun the weapon around him, slicing through the Shadow that attempted to attack him from behind. Sora landed gracefully, delivering a powerful vertical strike to a charging Large Body. The creature, too massive to be pushed back with a single blow, staggered under the impact, growling in frustration.
Sora: No rest... They always come in numbers.
A water attack shot toward him, launched by one of the Water Core. Sora narrowly dodged, rolling on the ground before regaining his footing. The splashes of water struck the ground violently behind him. He quickly realized that he couldn't let these creatures overwhelm the battlefield.
Determined to counterattack, Sora rushed toward an Water Core, sweeping away the Shadows in his path with a horizontal strike. He leaped, gaining momentum to strike the liquid Heartless. However, the Water Core briefly dissolved into a watery form to avoid the blow, reappearing right beside Sora with a water sphere ready to explode.
Finding himself in a tight spot, Sora summoned all his focus. The Heartless prepared to strike, but Sora reacted swiftly, tapping into his inner power. A burst of light shone around him, illuminating the scene. Under the watchful eyes of Amber, Kaeya, and Aether, his clothing began to transform, shifting from its usual appearance to a much more familiar and powerful form.
Amber: What's happening with Sora?!
Sora's clothing transformed into a black and silver outfit, reminiscent of what he used to wear in his previous adventures. His movements, now more fluid and powerful, seemed infused with the experience of his past battles. This was the Second Form, a transformation that brought Sora back to his former skills while amplifying his strength.
Paimon: Is Paimon the only one who thinks his outfit looks different?
Kaeya: We all see the same thing. But I doubt it's just a change in style.
Now clad in the Second Form, Sora re-entered the fray with renewed vigor. He leaped toward the Water Core that had dodged him earlier, striking this time with enhanced precision. His Keyblade, surrounded by a radiant glow, sliced through the creature with thunderous force, causing it to explode into a mist of water.
A group of Soldiers charged at him, but Sora, mastering his new form, spun around, unleashing a series of quick and powerful strikes, sending each of the Soldiers flying in black wisps. He raised his Keyblade toward the sky before slamming it down into the ground, releasing a shockwave that pushed back the remaining Shadows and Large Body, clearing space around him. This technique was called Stun Impact.
Sora: It feels good to regain this power.
As the last Heartless attempted one final attack, Sora executed a spectacular leap into the air, his Keyblade shining with light. He dove toward the ground, striking with increased force. He literally cut through the entire group of Heartless, piercing them multiple times until they all vanished. His technique, called Soniv Blade, was undoubtedly the most effective for taking out a large number of enemies at once.
Amber, Kaeya, Aether, and Paimon watched, impressed by the mastery and power Sora displayed.
Amber: Wow, Sora! That was incredible!
Paimon: He took out an entire group of Heartless by himself!
Kaeya: I must say, I'm pleasantly surprised. That's quite a fascinating power.
Aether: It looks like he has a lot more experience than we do in dealing with the Heartless. I'm relieved to fight alongside someone so skilled.
Sora, out of breath but smiling, joined his friends, his Keyblade resting on his shoulder.
Sora: Thank you. You all did an amazing job too.
After triumphing over the Heartless, Sora, Amber, Kaeya, and Aether gathered, breathless but relieved to see that the dark creatures had finally been defeated. Silence fell over the square, and a sense of calm replaced the tense atmosphere of battle.
Paimon: Finally! Those horrible creatures won't be back anytime soon. Paimon thought they would never stop appearing!
Sora looked around, his gaze scanning the damaged houses and once-peaceful alleys. Springvale now bore the marks of the chaos left by the Heartless: torn roofs, collapsed walls, and debris scattered everywhere.
Sora: They caused quite a bit of damage... This village has really suffered. I feel bad for not arriving faster.
Amber then positioned herself right next to Sora, placing her hand on the young boy's shoulder, and in a gentle voice, she tried to reassure him.
Amber: Yes, but what matters is that there were no casualties. The villagers are all safe, and none of the knights were injured. In my eyes, that's a victory.
Kaeya: Amber is right. We can always rebuild material things. Saving lives is always the priority, and we succeeded in that.
The group reassured one another, taking a moment to breathe after the intensity of the battle. However, the calm was interrupted by the quick arrival of Diona, who was rushing in after helping to evacuate the villagers.
Diona: Sora! Is everyone okay? I saw that the Heartless were gone; you defeated them, right?
Amber: Yes, everything is fine now. Sora and Aether did an excellent job helping us clear the village of those creatures.
Relieved, Diona responded with a smile.
Diona: That's great! I was afraid they would destroy everything. Thank you all for protecting the village... and my home.
Diona glanced at Aether, immediately recognizing the famous traveler she had heard so much about.
Diona: Wait... You are Aether, the traveler everyone is talking about? The one who resolved the incident with Stormterror?
Paimon: That's right. And I'm his traveling companion, Paimon. Nice to meet you, Diona.
Diona: Nice to meet you too. Thank you again for your help. You really are just as you're described, true knights protecting the innocent and vanquishing evil!
Paimon: Uh... it's true that we try to help those in need, but still... everyone exaggerates Aether's exploits a bit. I'm sure it's the fault of that Tone-Deaf Bard who enjoys embellishing his songs.
Kaeya: In any case, we can't deny that you arrived just in time to lend us a hand. Everyone contributed to defeating the Heartless. There's nothing wrong with acknowledging your merits. It'll help a lot of people trust you.
Paimon: Well... presented like that, it makes sense. But your compliment sounds a little strange. You're not hiding something, are you?
With his mischievous smile, Kaeya replied.
Kaeya: Come on, that's hurtful! I'm genuinely happy that your reputation is improving. And by extension, that of the Knights of Favonius. People will know they can count on their protectors.
Amber: You say that, Kaeya-senpai, but I bet all you want is for the traveler and Paimon to solve everyone's problems. Which means more free time for the knights... and for you in particular, more time to hit the bars.
Kaeya: Oops... was it that obvious?
Paimon: I knew it! Basically, you just wanted us to do all your work so you could subtly delegate all your responsibilities to Aether. You're truly incorrigible, Kaeya!
Diona: Ah... and to think you had managed to gain a little of my respect... Now you're falling back down just as quickly.
Amber burst into laughter, amused by the scene, and Sora joined her, a smile on his lips. Aether, on the other hand, wore a small, discreet smile. Being able to laugh and relax like this after so many battles felt good for everyone. After this little exchange, Diona turned to Sora and Aether, her face lit up with a big smile of gratitude.
Diona: Sora, Aether, thank you again for everything. You saved the village and its people. If you ever stop by the "Cat's Tail," I'll give you a welcome worthy of its name. I'll even prepare my best drinks for you... but I warn you, no alcohol!
This remark made Kaeya and Amber laugh. Kaeya, known for enjoying a good drink, couldn't help but smile mischievously.
Kaeya: No alcohol, huh? Well, even without that, your drinks are still famous, so I won't complain.
Aether: That works for me. After all this, a bit of rest wouldn't hurt.
Sora, who was watching the scene with his hands clasped behind his head, also wore a broad smile.
Sora: That works for me too! After all these battles, a good moment of relaxation is exactly what we need.
The idea of a well-deserved break warmed the hearts of the group. After going through numerous battles and bravely defending the village, they deserved this moment of respite. Suddenly, one of the knights rushed over to Kaeya, looking worried.
Knight: Captain Kaeya, there's still one left... One Heartless survived!
Immediately, the group turned their gaze in the indicated direction. In the distance, a Shadow stood still, silently observing.
Amber: That is definitely a Heartless... but why is it just standing there without moving?
Paimon: It's strange. They always attack in swarms, so why is this one not moving? It's just staring at us, it's creepy; it's too weird!
Diona: You're right. From what I've seen, these creatures attack relentlessly anything in their path. It's not normal for one to remain inactive.
Kaeya squinted, watching the creature with suspicion, sensing that something unsettling was brewing.
Kaeya: You're right. It's not in their nature to just stand there doing nothing. Stay alert; something's brewing...
Aether and Sora, weapons at the ready, observed the scene, each sensing a palpable tension in the air. Sora, in particular, felt a sinister familiarity with the situation. After all, he knew better than anyone the unpredictability of the Heartless.
But before Sora could warn the others, several knights, confident in their numbers, took the initiative and charged toward the Shadow.
Knight: No need to hesitate. It's all alone, and we're more numerous; let's overwhelm it together!
Surprised by their sudden action, Amber tried to warn them.
Amber: Wait! Don't rush in!
The knights didn't slow down, ignoring Amber's warning. Sora, his instincts going into overdrive, noticed something strange: a dark puddle was beginning to spread beneath the Shadow's feet. His eyes widened.
Sora: NO! All of you! Get away right now!
(Kingdom Hearts OST - Wave of Darkness I)
But it was too late. Just as the knights came within reach of the Shadow, a massive explosion of darkness erupted from the ground. It wasn't a traditional blast, but a tide of Shadows—hundreds, no, thousands of them—surging from the dark puddle. An unending stream of Heartless burst forth from this dark fissure, grouping and merging into a swirling mass, moving like a swarm in the air.
The natives of Teyvat were shocked; they had never seen such a manifestation.
Amber: What the... this is impossible! How can there be so many?!
Diona: This... this can't be! Where are all these Heartless coming from?!
Paimon: There are hundreds! No... thousands! It's terrifying!
The group watched in horror as this swarm of Shadows moved like a single, terrifying mass, twisting and shifting in the air like a black wave ready to engulf them. Amber and Diona couldn't hide their fear, and even Paimon, usually so chatty, was paralyzed by the sight of this dark army.
Even Kaeya, usually calm and calculating, showed signs of worry. His usual smirk had vanished, replaced by a grave expression.
Kaeya: Such a concentration of Heartless... Even the monsters of Teyvat don't gather like this. This surpasses anything I've ever seen.
Aether braced himself, ready for anything, though destabilized by the overwhelming number of enemies standing before them. It was the first time he had seen such a mass of creatures gathered together.
Aether: I've never seen so many Heartless at once...
Sora, however, was not as impressed. He had seen this before. This wave of Heartless was not an unfamiliar phenomenon to him. He knew exactly what he was dealing with.
Sora: This isn't just a simple army of Heartless. It's a "Demon Tide".
The group turned to Sora, surprised by his calmness in the face of this terrifying sight.
Paimon: A Demon Tide? What is that?
Sora: It's a form that Heartless take when they gather in countless numbers. They merge to create a living mass of darkness. It's not just a bunch of enemies... it's a whole entity.
Amber and Diona exchanged worried glances.
Amber: So... they're not just numerous. They're even more dangerous, right?
Sora: Exactly. We need to act fast before they merge further.
Aether: Then we have no choice. We have to confront them before they gain strength.
Kaeya: Looks like we don't have the luxury of relaxing after all.
Sora gripped his Keyblade tightly, his expression determined. He knew this would be a tough battle, but he had already defeated a Demon Tide in the past. It would be a trial for the whole group, but together, they could succeed.
Sora: Get ready. We're going to have to face them all together.
The battle against the Demon Tide began without warning, the group facing this moving dark mass made up of thousands of Heartless. The air was thick with tension as everyone prepared to give their all.
Sora, still enveloped in the energy of his Second Form, made his Keyblade shine. Aether, armed with his sword and surrounded by an Anemo aura, was ready to use the power of the wind to disrupt the creature.
Kaeya, his usual calm demeanor intact, gripped his sword firmly, while Amber and Diona adjusted their bows, arrows infused with Pyro and Cryo elements already nocked and ready to go.
Sora was the first to act. He surged forward at breakneck speed towards the Demon Tide, swinging his Keyblade in a luminous arc. His strikes were quick and precise, sending waves of energy crashing into the Shadows. His technique was called Ars Arcanum. Each blow scattered the Heartless in a burst of darkness, but as soon as they were taken down, others took their place, reforming the dark mass.
Sora: They regenerate too quickly... No matter how many we destroy, they always come back!
To his left, Aether raised his sword and unleashed a powerful gust of wind that slammed into the Tide, scattering a large number of Shadows. He then executed a series of Anemo attacks, creating swirling gales that sent the Heartless flying like fallen leaves.
Aether: It feels like they're endless! There has to be a way to stop them!
Amber, meanwhile, was firing her flaming arrows at an incredible speed. Each one exploded on contact with the Shadows, taking out several at once, but just like with Sora and Aether, others almost immediately took their place, reforming the Tide.
Amber: No matter how many we take down, more just appear right away... It seems like they're infinite.
Diona was doing the same as Amber. She launched several arrows as well, but unlike Amber's, these arrows froze multiple Shadows before they crashed to the ground, shattering and disappearing in a puff of black smoke. Additionally, Diona sent out several ice projectiles shaped like cat claws, striking the Heartless, and forming an ice shield to protect herself from potential attacks. But once again, the Shadows reformed as if nothing had happened.
Diona: That insane! They're everywhere, and nothing stops them!
As they attacked relentlessly, the Demon Tide began to vibrate. It suddenly dove into the ground, disappearing into a black puddle. The group was taken by surprise, with Amber being the first to react.
Amber: What? They dove into the ground?
Kaeya: Given that we're fighting a swarm of Shadows, I wouldn't be surprised if they're behaving as they usually do. That said, considering the size of this Tide, it's likely to react more violently.
The ground beneath their feet began to tremble and darken. Seeing this, Amber shouted a warning.
Amber: Watch out, beneath your feet!
Before they had time to react, the Tide reemerged with a rumble, rising up directly beneath them. A massive wave of Shadows surged forth, aiming to collide with them. Sora and Aether were the first to react, skillfully leaping to the side, but the attack was so quick that they were nearly swept away.
Amber rolled to the side, narrowly avoiding the wave of Shadows. Diona, still protected by her ice shield, managed to block the attack but was thrown back by the force of the impact.
Diona: They catch us by surprise every time!
The Demon Tide showed no signs of letting up. As soon as it finished its assault, it dove back into the ground, leaving behind another black puddle.
Sora, wiping the sweat from his forehead, squinted.
Sora: Look at the puddle! That's where it's going to reappear!
Aether looked at the dark puddle beneath his feet and stepped back just in time. The Demon Tide reemerged at the exact spot he had occupied a moment earlier, sweeping the air around him in another attempt to strike.
Dodging became increasingly difficult as the Demon Tide grew faster and more unpredictable. It dove into the ground, reappeared elsewhere, and sometimes even beneath several members of the group simultaneously, trying to overwhelm them.
Kaeya, ever alert, dodged again, but the signs of fatigue were beginning to show on his face.
Kaeya: If this keeps up, we'll exhaust ourselves before it does...
The Demon Tide moved with disconcerting speed, popping up here and there, trying to catch the heroes off guard each time. Sora, feeling that the battle was dragging on, gritted his teeth and launched himself forward again, striking with all his might. But each blow felt futile. The Demon Tide relentlessly reformed, creating an even larger mass with every wave.
Aether, arms raised, summoned another storm of Anemo. The swirling wind tore pieces from the Tide, scattering Shadows in every direction. But even this powerful attack seemed to have no lasting effect.
Paimon: Huh... no matter how hard we hit it, it just keeps coming back with even more Shadows.
Aether: Sora, we need a plan! At this rate, it's going to wear us out before we can weaken it!
Sora remained silent for a moment, his eyes locked on the Tide. He knew they couldn't defeat it by just hitting it mindlessly. The creature had an advantage, and as long as they didn't find its weak point, they would remain trapped in this cycle of exhaustion.
Sora: We need to find its heart... a core. That's where we can hit it for good.
Amber, panting, shot another arrow, but her arms were starting to tremble.
Amber: A core? How do we find it in all of this?
Sora: We have to exhaust it. Keep hitting it, force it to reveal its weak point!
The battle against the Demon Tide raged on, and though the group of heroes was exhausted, they held firm. The creature of darkness seemed endless, and despite all their efforts, they were struggling to defeat it. Suddenly, in an unexpected move, the Demon Tide rose into the air, its thousands of Shadows swirling into a black cyclone that slowly drifted away.
Amber, confused, furrowed her brows and lowered her bow.
Amber: What is it doing? Where is it going?
Kaeya, his face tense, watched the Demon Tide with suspicion.
Kaeya: I don't believe for a second that it's retreating. Such a creature, with such an advantage, doesn't back down...
Diona, who had stayed back, watched the Tide's trajectory with growing dread. She narrowed her eyes, and her expression changed abruptly as she realized where the Tide was heading. Pointing in the direction, she trembled.
Diona: I think it went that way. And if I'm not mistaken, it looks like it's heading towards... *gasp* No... wait a second... Oh no! Not that!
Amber: Diona!? What's going on?
Diona: The... the direction the Heartless took...
Diona's words sent shockwaves through the group. Amber, hearing the worry in her friend's voice, turned her gaze in the same direction. Her eyes widened as she realized what that meant.
Amber: Oh no... This can't be happening!
Seeing the panic in their expressions, Paimon flew closer, nervously circling around them.
Paimon: Wait, why are you all so worried? What's over there?
But before Amber or Diona could respond, Kaeya, who had already grasped the severity of the situation, spoke up, his tone grave.
Kaeya: The Demon Tide is heading straight for Mondstadt.
The heavy silence that followed his words made Paimon shiver. Her eyes widened in disbelief.
Paimon: WHAT?! But... Mondstadt won't be able to withstand this! Those Hearless will destroy everything!
Amber, feeling a surge of urgency, wanted to act immediately. She took a step forward, ready to rush to defend her city, but wobbled, barely caught by Diona. The accumulated fatigue from their previous battles was now catching up with her. Her legs trembled under her own weight.
Amber: I... We have to protect the city... Jean and the others... They won't be able to contain something like that...
Kaeya looked at her with concern, fully aware that none of them were in a state to chase after the Tide.
Kaeya: Amber, in our condition, we'll never make it in time… And the Demon Tide is fast. Even if we could move, it would already cause damage before we got there.
Amber clenched her fists, her eyes filled with frustration and fear.
Amber: So... what can we do?! We can't leave Mondstadt at the mercy of those monsters!
Sora, sensing the urgency and distress in Amber's voice, stepped forward.
Sora: I can go. I still have enough energy left.
Aether, standing beside him, nodded determinedly. Despite the fatigue, he was ready to continue.
Aether: Me too. We can't let them do this.
Kaeya, although appreciating the resolve of the two boys, remained realistic.
Kaeya: Even you two won't make it in time... Look at how it moves in the air. Mondstadt will already suffer damage before you reach it.
Diona, desperate, wondered if there was really nothing they could do.
Diona: So what? Are we supposed to just stand here and do nothing? They've already caused enough havoc to my home! I refuse to let them continue their destruction through the city!
Sora and Aether, their heads down, searched for a solution. Their minds raced for an idea, but none seemed feasible to catch up with the Demon Tide in time. Suddenly, a voice resonated in their minds.
? ? ? : I might be able to do something for you.
Surprised, Sora and Aether abruptly looked up, scanning their surroundings. They gazed into the sky, trying to understand where the voice was coming from.
Amber: What's happening? Are you okay?
Sora, squinting his eyes, tried to make sense of it. The voice sounded strangely familiar. He was certain he had heard it somewhere before.
Sora: That voice… I've heard it before… But where?
Aether, on the other hand, seemed to know exactly who the voice belonged to.
Aether: It's… it's him.
Suddenly, without warning, a violent gust of wind erupted around Sora and Aether, enveloping them in a whirlwind of air. Amber, Diona, and Kaeya watched in astonishment as the wind grew stronger, literally lifting the two boys into the air.
Diona: What the…?!
Amber: Sora! Aether!
With wide eyes, Sora tried to stabilize himself in the whirlwind, his Keyblade gripped tightly in his hands. Aether, calmer, pulled out his Wind Glider and let the wind carry him. Seeing this, Sora mimicked his companion, stabilizing himself in the air. Instead of a traditional glider, Sora invoked a magical technique: his Air Slide ability. He soared gracefully, riding the air currents as if he were born to do so.
Once the two boys were balanced in the air, they noticed the wind was propelling them in the same direction as the Demon Tide—toward Mondstadt. The speed at which they flew gave them a chance to intercept it before it reached the city.
Sora and Aether exchanged a glance. Without needing words, they understood they had to work together to stop the tide before it was too late. They had fought side by side up until now, and this battle would be no different.
Sora: We'll stop it and prevent it from destroying the city!
Aether: Yes. Together.
Fueled by the wind, the two young heroes headed toward Mondstadt, ready to face a threat that could annihilate the city. Time was of the essence, but with the support of the mysterious wind force, they had a chance to change the course of events.
Below, Amber, Diona, Paimon, and Kaeya watched with a mix of astonishment and hope.
Paimon: They're gone... The wind just made them fly away!
Amber: Strangely, this situation reminds me of when Stormterror attacked the city. The Traveler was also surrounded by the wind, and he managed to fend off the dragon.
Diona: They... they're going to succeed, right?
Kaeya: If they can't do it, no one will. But let's not worry any further. Let's trust them; that's all we can do.
With the Demon Tide in sight and the wind at their backs, Sora and Aether prepared for a decisive battle.