Author's Notes (Skip to the chapter if you don't want to read my long ass note):

First of all, I apologize for the long delay. I know some of you probably have been waiting for an update, but December and January were very busy for me.

Usually, I try to keep a chapter per week, but I had to assist my family and friends with many things and study cloud computing and programming a lot. I consider writing stories as a hobby. So, it's not my top priority to update constantly. But I won't abandon these stories like how other few authors do unless I announce it beforehand.

…

I'll share a little about myself, my thought process in creating these stories, and my plans for the future.

Initially, I was very engaged with the games. However, my attitude began to change. Now, I hate Minecraft, Fire Emblem, Final Fantasy, Xenoblade, and nearly everything else. Why is that? Well, I'd rather not write lengthy paragraphs to elaborate on it.

Simply put, my blood boils whenever I see any video games these days or any popular media and their so-called 'kind communities' around it; I loathe them. Both the companies and their die-hard fans… I feel like crushing all of them with the grab of my fists.

Yes, I'm not fun to hang around in real life (or am I? I'm not sure myself). In fact, I almost hate anything that this world considers 'fun'. Romance? Shows? Anime? Movies? Vacation? Dancing? Party? Books? Tasty Food? Games? Eh, I don't find it engaging. At least not anymore. It all seems dull. Am I broken? Careless? Sometimes, I feel like I am, but I know I'm only a fool for thinking like that.

If so, why am I writing these kinds of stories? It's definitely not because I love the games to an extreme extent, nor is it because I have some shipping fantasy about Cloud and Olivia (I just paired them at first glance).

Maybe I want to create something in frustration and hatred, or I just want to reminisce about the old times with my own sci-fi reimagining. Maybe it's because I really wanted to beat the ever-living shit out of one particular author with my own words.

In any case, what I ultimately desire is to create something. To create something enjoyable for others. I know I contradicted my quote: "I am here to write whatever interests me and not something to please the readers," but it's true. This way, I at least feel fulfilled that I did something good and useful in this world (even though I hate this world). However, I know this isn't enough.

So, this will (most likely) be my last fanfiction, and I planned about 20-30 more chapters for Awakened Fantasy. After this, I want to move on and focus on a bigger project. It's a secret until finished, but to give a small hint, it will be more interactive.

For Double Edged Situation, I will eventually finish it in 5 chapters and completely revise it to enhance the storytelling (I swear I will, but I want to expand this A.F. story first). I did say I was going to include a sequel for D.E.S. It's called "Double Edged Situation: Crimson Gears," but I decided to cancel it and use that story premise for something else.

…

Lastly, although Double Edged Situation is slightly rough in some areas, it holds a place in my heart. I put much thought into it and want to do the same for Awakened Fantasy. So, Awakened Fantasy's story will certainly have many elements not mentioned in the original source as it will be mixed with some sci-fi action. I want to make the story as badass, epic, chaotic, and (as one of my sisters describes me) 'edgy' as possible.

That's about it. I won't write long notes like this in the future. Enjoy the eighth chapter while I continue working on the next.

Chapter 8 – Destiny in Flames, Part II

The Shepherds grouped together, tending to their battle-worn comrades in the dim light of the encampment. The sound of distant Plegian warriors echoed faintly, a reminder that danger was still present, but the immediate threat had subsided for now. The Exalt, exhausted from the conflict, especially after her first ride on Cloud's cycle, slumped to the convoy's floor and succumbed to a deep slumber.

Chrom paced nervously, glancing at the horizon where the sun began to set. He turned to his tactician, who was deeply focused on assisting the injured. "Robin," Chrom called, his voice tinged with urgency. "We need to get to Ylisse's capital as soon as possible. The threat from the enemy won't wait for us to recover."

Sighing, Robin looked up, weary eyes meeting Chrom's intense gaze. "I understand, Chrom, but we're missing Vaike."

"Vaike?" Chrom furrowed his brow, concern etching lines into his face. "Since when?"

"It's been too long since anyone has seen him," Robin replied, his fingers trembling as he finished bandaging a wounded soldier's arm. "And I'd hate to leave him behind."

"*Sigh* Well, I understand," Chrom said, "but we can't afford to linger in enemy territory. Every moment we stay here, we risk being discovered again. It's more important to prioritize the safety of the others."

Just then, Lissa joined them, a worried look on her face. "What's going on? Are we leaving?"

Chrom turned to her, putting a hand on her shoulder. "We're deciding whether we should wait for Vaike. But staying here is dangerous."

"Vaike, he…" Lissa swallowed uneasily. "He's tough, he can take care of himself. We've got to think about the entire group first, especially Emm."

"You all can't be serious!" Robin interjected, his voice rising. "…Sorry. Vaike is one of us... Cloud went to get him. So, we have to wait and stay patient for a bit longer."

"But we'll be risking the whole group!" She protested, panic evident in her gaze.

"Hm…" Chrom looked at Robin. "We shouldn't abandon him, but we can't dally here forever. How about this, if Cloud can't find him quickly, we must return to Ylisse."

"…Okay," Robin reluctantly nodded.

"We'll set a limit. If he's not back by midnight or we hear our enemy approaching, we will hurry for the capital," Chrom said, pointing in the opposite direction of Plegia's Castle. "For now, we should hide behind those mountains."

Robin agreed, even as Lissa grimaced at the decision. "Understood. Let's move quickly then."

Resting her weary body atop the arid mountain, Marth gazed down at the enormous skull that loomed in the distance, its jagged edges casting sinister shadows against the barren landscape. "Grima… I will find a way to triumph. To liberate the future from your clutches." The weight of her vow settled heavily on her shoulders, a haunting promise echoing in the stillness of the surroundings.

Suddenly, she flinched as she heard wings flap behind her. Her heart raced, the audible sound slicing through the tense silence like a blade. Was it the Fell Dragon's presence? Had he finally awoken?

A voice broke the silence. "What are you up to?"

Marth spun around, tightening her grip on her sword, her instincts honed by countless battles. She relaxed instantly upon seeing Nowi, a vibrant and cheerful thousand-year-old manakete. She was currently in her human guise, hopping toward her with an infectious smile. "Just observing," Marth replied, letting out a sigh of relief that mingled with the thin mountain air. Her heart slowed as she let the tension of the moment dissipate.

"The castle? Or that gigantic skull?" Nowi asked, her curiosity evident as she squatted beside Marth, her bright purple eyes reflecting the sun's rays.

"The skull…" A shiver ran down Marth's spine. "Have you ever encountered the Fell Dragon personally?" The thought of Grima's malicious gaze sent anger surging through her veins. She clutched her Parallel Falchion tightly, a symbol of her resolve.

Nowi shook her head, peering at the draconic remains with innocent wonder. "I've never seen him up close or met his kind before. Just looking at it gives me chills."

A grimace crossed Marth's face. "Yeah. There's nothing good about him." The chaos caused by Grima lingered in her mind, bolstering her determination to face the looming darkness threatening their world.

As she rose, resolved to escape the skull's heavy influence behind, Nowi extended her hand towards her. "Enough of that! Let's go!" she exclaimed cheerfully.

Marth eyed the manakete curiously, her brow furrowing slightly. "Go where?"

"I was looking forward to playing with you, but Fredrick has been looking for you," Nowi said, her enthusiasm unshaken by the gravity of the moment.

"Me? Why?" Marth's tone reflected her skepticism.

Nowi shrugged, her playful nature seeming to overshadow her concern. "I'm not sure. He seemed troubled."

Marth stood tall with a resigned huff, acknowledging the call of duty that never seemed to fade. "All right. I'll go meet him." As they began their descent from the mountain, she couldn't help but feel Grima's looming shadow as a constant reminder of the battle that lay ahead.

"Do you think Lucina will be okay?" Severa asked, her voice carrying a note of concern as they stood under the vast expanse of the night sky, where stars twinkled like distant lanterns.

Lazily sprawled across her father's powerful motorcycle, Mirage sunk into the plush seat that gleamed in the moonlight, her long hair cascading over the sleek frame. She closed her eyes, a slight grunt of disdain escaping her lips. "Whether or not she will be okay is none of my concern."

Severa observed Mirage, noting her easygoing stance, arms carelessly resting on the handlebars and legs hanging over the edge as if the earlier battle hadn't affected her one bit. In contrast, Severa felt unease in her chest since Lucina had climbed the mountain to 'practice alone.' She noticed that ever since they had entered Plegia's territory, Lucina's breathing had become increasingly frantic. It must be that ugly skull.

"Right…" Severa sighed, her brow furrowed. The rivalry between Mirage and Lucina always seemed to keep them at odds, a tension that was palpable between the two. She took a small step forward, the grains of sand shifting beneath her boots. "You really think Lucina can handle everything on her own?" she asked, her voice tinged with frustration. "She might put on a brave face, but all this competition doesn't mean she doesn't need support."

Mirage slowly opened one eye, revealing an amused glimmer. "Support? Please. If she wanted support, she wouldn't see me as a rival," she replied, her tone dripping with mockery. Yet, a flicker of something more serious crossed her face for a fleeting moment.

Severa shook her head, sensing the heaviness of the night settling around them. "This isn't merely about rivalry, Mirage. Both of you challenge one another because you care. You know at this moment, she's having a tough time confronting her own demons."

"…"

"I mean, sure, we can agree that giant abomination had to be stopped, yet no one ever dared to confront it. Lucina was one of the few who would dare fight it up close. Something that is considered a death sentence for anyone."

Mirage stared at the starry sky. "Yeah, I know."

"Despite her strong will, that encounter has left her with lifelong scars. Just the sight of any dragon wings makes her anxious. Plus, she is burdened with the task of identifying this unknown traitor among the Shepherds. You know what I'm saying? We are probably her only true allies here, and we should at least help ease her struggles."

Mirage closed her eyes again, filling the air with silence. "No," she finally responded, her voice tinged with tension.

Severa felt her heart drop at Mirage's reply. "What do you mean, no? You can't just turn your back on her." She paused, hoping for a response from Mirage, but received none. Severa then pondered why she continued to grow cold with Lucina; they hadn't always been like this before. Suddenly, she had an idea. "Is it because of Lucina's feelings towards your brother?"

Mirage's eye twitched as Severa mentioned him. "Inigo…"

"Am I right? Then this is because you-"

"Severa." Sitting up, Mirage gave her a sharp, cold glare. "Not another word. If I catch you bringing this up again, especially when she is around, I will most certainly give you a moment you'll never forget."

Feeling the pressure of Mirage's stare, Severa realized it was wise to withdraw. The tension in the air had intensified, and continuing would merely fan the flames of their disagreement. "Okay, okay," she admitted, raising her hands in a soothing gesture. "I won't mention it again."

"Good."

"Marth!" Fredrick's voice rang through the shadows as he spotted the young woman approaching down the mountain with one of her eyes closed. His brow furrowed slightly as panic flickered in her open eye. "Tell me, are you truly of royal blood?"

Marth's heart raced. "N-no! I'm just a commoner," she responded quickly, her tone surprisingly calm despite the inner turmoil threatening to surface.

"Then explain the Mark of the Exalt, the one like on Chrom's shoulder, in your left eye," he pressed, his gaze piercing as he searched her face for any hint of honesty.

At that moment, Chrom entered the clearing, drawn by the noise. He stopped to assess the tense atmosphere. "What's going on here?"

Fredrick turned slightly, indicating Marth with a nod. "Milord, I was questioning if she is part of your royal lineage."

At Chrom's presence, Marth felt a new sweat break out along her brow. The weight of his gaze bore down on her, curiosity mingling with a protective instinct. "I'm really nobody special..." she said with caution.

"Fredrick, is this true?" Chrom stepped a bit closer, his voice filled with curiosity. "Does she bear the mark, just like I do?"

Marth shrank under their scrutiny, the heat rising in her cheeks. "Please! I swear I'm not part of the royal family."

Fredrick was skeptical. "We wouldn't be having this conversation if you weren't. I suggest you be truthful and show us your left eye, or else I can't guarantee your safety."

Gods, this is too soon. Has it really come to this? I don't know if I should… But Mirage and Severa have already confessed, and nothing significant has occurred yet. So maybe it should be okay for me to do it as well… right? Marth swallowed hard; the weight of this situation was crashing down on her. Now that I think about it, we have altered this timeline to such a degree that I believe it doesn't matter anymore. "I-"

"Enough!" Chrom's voice interrupted, authoritative and reassuring. "No need to press her further. If she says she isn't royal, we should take her at her word. Marth, I'm sorry for-"

"No, it's okay," Marth interrupted him. "I suppose it's time I stop hiding myself."

Fredrick moved his head up, looking down on her with caution. "Oh?"

"I'm, in fact, part of the Exalt's lineage." Marth opened her eye, revealing the Exalted symbol marked on her iris. She stared at Chrom specifically, her heart beating nervously.

Chrom backed up, shocked by this sudden revelation. "No way. You are telling me you're like my forgotten… sister? Or lost cousin, perhaps?"

Fredrick felt the same way. Despite having some doubts earlier, he was now filled with dismay. He couldn't determine if he was required to care for her as another member of the Exalts.

She giggled at Chrom's assumptions. "That's not it at all. I'm Lucina, your future daughter. My Falchion is proof of that."

Chrom's world stopped. He didn't notice when he was constantly worried for Emmeryn's safety at the time, but the signs seemed to align perfectly. Her fighting style, sword, hair, and now her mark. "If that's the case, then who is the mother?"

Lucina smiled, "Why don't you look at the person behind you?"

He looked behind, spotting light brown hair peeking out the side of the tent. "Sumia?"

Startled, the Pegasus Knight quickly stepped out from her hiding spot. "Y-yes? What is it, ChroOA-" She tripped over some rock, landing her face against the cold sand.

"Sumia, not again!" Chrom rushed over to her aid. "Are you all right?"

As the prince lifted her up, she coughed out the sand from her mouth. "Pthuwee! Bthea! Aagh… Stupid sand…" Brushing off the remaining grain out of her, she locked eyes with Lucina. "You're not talking about me, right?"

"I am," Lucina replied. "You are my Mother."

A moment of silence fell over the three, the weight of the revelation hanging heavily in the air like an unsaid promise. Chrom blinked rapidly, struggling to process the whirlwind of emotions cascading through him. "This is not happening… is it?"

Sumia's eyes filled with confusion and curiosity as she looked from Lucina to Chrom. "You're... really my daughter?" Her mind raced, memories tumbling back to magical nights spent gazing at stars with Chrom, the family they'd envisioned together. "B-but-"

Each of their minds swirling with implications and questions. Lucina's heart raced as she absorbed their stunned expressions, wondering if she had made a mistake by revealing her true identity so soon.

Chrom blinked again. "But how? How can you be here?" His hands trembled slightly at his sides the more he thought about her presence. Her existence. "Why are you here?"

"I came for many reasons," Lucina began, her voice steadying as she met her father's gaze. "To stop Grima, to protect this world from repeating the future I know. From the war, the despair, everything that almost tore us apart…"

Sumia shook. "No way… Grima? I thought that was just a legend …You're joking, right?"

Lucina swallowed hard, wrestling with her memories. "How could I jest when I've been there? I-I have seen so much, things I hope you never face. Many dear to us fall, including you, guys. Fortunately, the Divine Dragon gave my friends and me a duty to change this world's demise. Preventing Emmeryn's death was one of them."

Fredrick, calming from his earlier suspicion, let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. "So, you're really Chrom's daughter from a doomed future?"

"Yes," Lucina replied, a fierce determination igniting within her. "I've trained for this my entire life. I won't let fear hold me back now."

Chrom ran a hand through his hair, barraging Lucina with questions. "What else can you tell us? What about the others? What is the state of our allies in the future?"

She hesitated momentarily, but their anticipation urged her on. "I don't know much as I was still a small child back then, but everyone fought valiantly till the end…"

"I see."

"However, rumors suggest that you were killed before witnessing Grima's awakening. A traitor lurked within your ranks, and with their betrayal, the Fire Emblem was shattered, making it impossible to stop the Fell Dragon's rampage."

The weight of her words sunk deep into Chrom's heart as he gazed at the golden shield attached to his left arm. "Who was-"

"I don't know. But don't let your guard down."

Chrom quickly looked at Fredrick and Sumia before shaking his head. "I'll keep that in mind."

"And what about me? I mean… what happened to me?" Sumia asked.

Lucina's voice faltered, emotions beginning to bubble to the surface. "I-I don't remember the details clearly. It's all flashes… but I know that you didn't come back. I spent years trying to piece together your fate to understand why you were gone." Her hands trembled slightly as she clenched them into fists, trying to steady herself.

Sumia's expression mirrored the storm of emotions swirling within her. "I never imagined that I would do such a thing…" she whispered, feeling something profound connect them, a bond transcending time. Raising her hands, Sumia unknowingly tried to grasp the fading air between them. "Lucina, I-I'm so sorry. I wish I could have been there for you."

Lucina nodded, her voice was soft but firm. "You were my inspiration. Every story I heard made me want to be strong, just like you. I practiced every day, hoping that one day, I could make you proud. I fought so rigorously, not just to change my fate, but the fates of those I lost in battle, like you."

"Me?" Sumia asked, her eyes widening in disbelief. "But you survived… you are here… and you're so strong, Lucina."

"Because of you," she said, her cheeks glistening with unshed tears. "But knowing what's to come, knowing that I might lose you again... that's what drives me more than anything. I made a promise to myself and to the future I wanted to protect."

Chrom interjected, stepping closer to his future daughter, his voice steady and reassuring. "Lucina, we all fight for the ones we love. Together, we will forge a future that's different from the one you remember. You won't lose your family again. That I promise."

Lucina blinked, the emotional weight shifting as hope began to blossom within her. "Promise?"

"Promise," Chrom affirmed, offering his hand. Sumia stepped closer, wrapping her arms around both Chrom and Lucina, pulling them into a tight embrace.

Fredrick, watching the embrace, felt a swell of admiration for the unconventional family dynamic unfolding before him. "Very well," he said, clearing his throat to regain their attention. "If you're done here, I'd like to have a moment with you, Chrom."

Chrom gently pulled away from Lucina and Sumia, his curiosity piqued by Fredrick's tone. "Of course, Fredrick. What's on your mind?"

"Cloud still hasn't come back. According to my clock, midnight is just a few hours away." He placed his arms behind his back. "I recommend we send a few of our members to assist Cloud. The longer we spend time here, the more our enemies will realize we escaped yet."

After a short pause, Chrom nodded in agreement. "If that's the case, we ought to send Mirage too. Her father's 'carriage' will swiftly transport them there."

"I'll go get her," Lucina said firmly.

"Alright. I'll get the others ready in the meantime."

As Lucina arrived back at their small camp, a strong determination surged within her. The passionate commitment sparked by her family's encouragement pushed her onward. She spotted Mirage sprawled across her motorcycle as Severa hung around, an old, familiar sight she had always seen whenever they got together.

Nevertheless, things have changed. Mirage always viewed her as a worthy rival, but now, Lucina doesn't understand why her friend has started to act more coldly than before. Mirage has grown distant from almost everyone, especially her. The only thing keeping them loosely in touch is Severa.

"Mirage!" Lucina called out, her voice cutting through the night air.

The girl stirred, blinking her eyes lazily before giving Lucina a sidelong glance. "What is it, princess?" she asked. Her tone hinted disinterest, yet Lucina sensed something deeper in her demeanor.

"We need your help," Lucina continued, urgency threading through her words.

"Not interested," Mirage replied.

"Your dad hasn't returned yet, and we need to send someone to check on him."

Mirage raised an eyebrow, her relaxed posture unaffected. "And why exactly should I worry? My dad will take care of it in a flash. Plus, I'm busy."

"Busy doing nothing?" Lucina stepped forward.

"Hanging out with my buddy."

"Right… Time is of the essence, and we don't know how long they take." Lucina glared at her. "By the way, you do remember our promise?"

Mirage looked at her, surprised. "We're still doing that?"

"We are still at war," she answered.

Grunting, Mirage frowned. "Well, that isn't really what I'm- …Ugh. Fine, I'll go do it," Mirage replied, swinging her legs off the motorcycle and standing ready to pay the price.

"I'll hold off on your punishment until later in private since they need you now."

"It's going to be my seventh one… Two more above yours..."

Severa leaned against the motorcycle with her arms crossed. "You guys see each other as bitter rivals, yet you have such a unique bond," she remarked, tilting her head slightly. "I weirdly admit, I sometimes feel a bit jealous."

Mirage shot her a serious glare. "Don't push your luck, Severa. Unless you want to pay the price, too."

She raised her hands right away and shook her head. "NO THANK YOU. I truly appreciate my perfect body more than you do!"

Lucina interjected, "I'll remain here and keep an eye out for any suspicious activities within our group."

"Sure," Mirage nodded.

"I'll stay with Lucina as well," Severa said. Just as she started to walk away, her body suddenly jolted. Mirage had intensely grabbed her shoulders from behind. Severa slowly turned her head, a nervous smile on her face. "W-what is it, Mirage?"

Mirage fixed her gaze on Lucina before turning to Severa. "Remember what I told you before."

"Hehe… Don't worry. I will seal my mouth shut," she whispered back.

Lucina watched as Mirage and Severa exchanged a knowing glance. Mirage released Severa's shoulders and turned to Lucina, her expression hardening with resolve.

"Alright, princess. I'll check on my dad," Mirage replied firmly. "But this doesn't mean I will simply forget this humiliating defeat."

Lucina shrugged at Mirage. "We'll see. Anyway, head in that direction. They will give you further instructions… And please be careful."

Mirage's lips curled into a brief smile before quickly disappearing. "I always am." She swung her leg over her motorcycle and revved the engine, the powerful sound breaking the night's silence. With the carriage connected to Fenrir, she carefully sped through the camp.

*CLANG*

Cloud and Olivia burst into a dark room, smashing the locked doors to pieces. The stench inside was foul. Iron and death permeated the air, almost suffocating them. "What, ugh, is this?" Olivia asked in horror, covering her nose.

As Cloud lit his torch, the room began to reveal its contents. In one corner, many large brown bags with black stains were contained. Cage cells with bones filled the opposite side of the bags, and blood stains were scattered everywhere.

The most noticeable features of this room were the brutally dismembered and half-eaten human corpses that hung on the walls and ceilings against sharp hooks, some of them having similar masks as the Risen and fewer with sacks covering their heads.

Olivia's stomach churned violently as the gruesome scene unfolded before her eyes. The sight of the human remains made her feel as if she might vomit. She clutched her abdomen, trying to steady her breathing, but the overwhelming stench and the horrific visuals were too much to bear. Her legs felt weak, and she leaned against the wall for support, her face pale and her eyes wide with shock.

Cloud, noticing her distress, immediately stepped closer, his expression softening. He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, his touch firm yet gentle. "Hey, it's okay," he said, his voice calm and steady. "I've seen worse. Just focus on me, all right? I'll help guide you through this."

Olivia nodded, trying to draw strength from his presence. The foul air burned her lungs, but she forced herself to stay upright. Cloud's unwavering support was the anchor she needed in this moment of horror.

Holding the frightened dancer who dared not look around, Cloud navigated to the room's far side. There, a table was strewn with strange tools and scripts. He captured an image of an aged map that seemed to outline the area's layout.

The map featured a circular room with several corridors leading to it, and at its center was an image of a black circle on a pedestal, reminiscent of the one holding the Red Materia. It appeared quite far from where they currently were. "That must be what we're searching for. If we don't encounter Vaike along the way, we'll probably find him in that main room."

"Can we leave this place?" Olivia asked.

He nodded. "Yeah. No point sticking around here." Opening the door leading further in, they entered a cleaner hallway, yet still retaining the same stench as the last room. He looked at Olivia, who had her eyes closed. "You can open your eyes now."

Olivia hesitated for a moment, gathering her courage before slowly opening her eyes. The hallway before them was dimly lit, with peeling paint and flickering lights giving it an eerie atmosphere. Although the sight wasn't as horrifying as the room they had just exited, the lingering odor reminded her all too well of what lay just behind them.

"Stay close to me," Cloud said, checking the corridor for hidden threats in the shadows. With a steady breath, Olivia nodded and moved closer, finding solace in their bond.

As they strolled down the corridor, the atmosphere became increasingly oppressive and laden with tension. Olivia sensed her heartbeat accelerating with every step, fervently hoping they were escaping from peril. Disturbing memories of the grotesque remains plagued her mind, yet she understood the necessity of staying alert to navigate this horrifying place.

Cloud was fully aware that anything might lurk around any corner. The only noises were their footsteps and a faint slushing sound underneath them…

Stop. What am I feeling? It's... sticky? He looked down and was quickly alarmed. He pulled his foot out of the purple sludge, placed it against stable ground, and managed to jump out of the mud. "Olivia! Get out of there!"

Following his gaze, Olivia realized that the sticky muck was engulfing her foot. She quickly grabbed his hand. "Cloud! Help me!"

Cloud's grip was firm and reassuring as he tried to pull her out of the mire. However, Olivia's panic turned into agony as a sharp pain shot through her leg. She let out a piercing scream, her eyes wide with terror.

"N-no! Wait! I'm tearing apart!" she cried, her voice cracking with desperation. The murky goo seemed to tighten its grip, pulling her deeper with every passing second.

"Wha-" Stopping, he looked down at her feet and spotted a pair of purple hands gripping her legs. Cloud took out one of his small side Fusion Blades from his back. "Away from her!" He swiftly stabbed both vile hands, causing the monster to release their prey. Cloud quickly pulled his women out of the bubbling mud.

Olivia leaned against Cloud for a moment, gathering her strength again. "I almost…"

"Can you stand?" Cloud asked as he glanced at her and the active mud.

Before she could answer, a pair of corpse limbs, with heavy broken chains, arose from the ooze as if something was trying to climb out. Cloud changed his side blade to his hollow Sword. "Stay back. I'll take care of this shit."

Olivia nodded as she backpedaled. "Please, be careful."

"I will."

A sack-like mask emerged from the surface, and soon after, their entire monstrous naked body rose up from the oozing mud. Their hollow eyes began to glow red, and their fingers grew out unnatural sharp claws as it stared down at Cloud and Olivia.

Without allowing it to counter, Cloud drove his weapon into its chest, targeting the heart. Yet, the monster stood there unfazed. Realizing this, Cloud jumped against its body and pulled his sword out simultaneously. Landing next to Olivia, he clenched his teeth. "So, an undead like the Risen, but much tougher."

The monster lunged at Cloud, its claws reaching for his face, but he countered with a powerful blow from his central blade, crushing its claws into pieces. After this strike, he attempted to hit the monster again with his hollow blade, yet it managed to dodge by retreating back into the sludge.

"You think you're a smartass now?" Following the mud's movements, Cloud combined the two swords together while he charged for his Limit. As soon as the monster appeared behind him, he twirled around, leaped into the air, and used Braver to split their body in half, ending its miserable life.

Cloud hurried back to Olivia and grabbed her hand. "Let's keep going. The faster we find what we are looking for, the better."

One by one, Cloud and Olivia swiftly cleared the rooms. The influx of oozing revenants increased as they approached the circular room, but Cloud managed to defeat them effortlessly with Olivia's help. There were no traces of Vaike to be found. Luckily, they reached an ornate door that was meant to take them to their destination, safe and sound.

Opening the door, a massive chamber with faint light flickering revealed multiple doors and ancient symbols engraved on the walls. The walls seemed to pulse with a tempting energy, drawing Cloud closer, a strange compulsion tugging at him.

Just then, footsteps echoed in the room, resonating from the center. Cloud and Olivia turned their attention to the pedestal. As Cloud saw the color of the orb that laid rest on the column, his heart froze.

The Black Materia? But what is it doing here?

As Cloud approached the stone, he noticed someone retrieving it from across the room. He paused, gripping the handle of his sword, and looked up at the figure clad in white armor. "Who are you? When did you arrive?" Cloud couldn't see the man's eyes, as a white helmet obscured everything except his mouth.

The stranger's mouth twitched as he stood there, staring at them. "Blind?" he spoke in a deep voice.

"He was already in here when we entered this room," Olivia whispered. She gave a worried glance. "Is that Materia giving you any headaches?"

Cloud shook his head. "No, I don't feel anything. It just reminds me of unpleasant times."

"…Are you here for this?" the man interrupted, holding up the Black Materia.

Cloud's eyes narrowed. "Yes? I assume you're here for it, too?"

The man shook his head, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "I don't need it, nor do I want it. I-"

Suddenly, Cloud's vision began to blur and flash. The figure before him started to shift and change imminently into a figure he feared and despised. The transformation revealed a presence too familiar. A shadow from his darkest memories.

The figure grinned darkly. "I want to test your might."

Cloud's throat tightened. "S-Sephiroth?" he managed to stammer.

"Wha-?" Olivia turned to Cloud, noticing his tense demeanor. "What did you say? Do you feel okay?"

Without responding, Cloud combined all parts of his Fusion Swords and took a firm stance, pointing them at Sephiroth. His eyes locked onto his enemy, silently preparing for battle, every muscle ready for the confrontation.

Sephiroth chuckled gently, raising his Masamune to his head. "You cannot avoid your destiny."

Cloud tightened his grip on the hilt of his Fusion Sword, steel nerves ignited by the threat before him. "And what destiny might that be?"

"The destiny of losing everything," Sephiroth answered. "You will stand at the crossroads of despair. The fall of your new family will be the price for your failure."

"No," Cloud shot back, his voice resolute as he stepped up to defend Olivia. "I won't let that happen. You're nothing but an echo of my past! I refuse to be your puppet!"

Understanding the gravity of their situation, Olivia backed away, her heart racing. "Cloud, I don't like where this is going. We should move-"

"NO! This ends here!" Cloud charged forward, executing a swift arc with his sword. Sephiroth leaped back as he countered Cloud's sword with his, narrowly avoiding the strike.

The chamber erupted into a fierce battle as Cloud faced off against the One-Winged Angel. Sephiroth mirrored Cloud's every movement with chilling precision, each strike growing fiercer and faster. Cloud's focus remained unwavering, his eyes locked on Sephiroth, the foe who had haunted his nightmares. The clang of their swords echoed throughout the chamber.

Sephiroth's Masamune gleamed ominously in the dim light, its long blade slicing through the air with lethal grace. Cloud's heart pounded as he parried Sephiroth's attacks, his muscles straining under the effort. Every move posed a calculated risk, every step a dance with death. The One-Winged Angel's smirk was infuriating, a constant reminder of his arrogance and confidence.

Cloud gritted his teeth, determined to surpass Sephiroth's every move. He shifted his grip on his Fusion Sword. With a fierce yell, he launched a series of powerful strikes, each aimed at breaking through Sephiroth's defenses. The impact of their swords meeting sent shockwaves through the chamber, illuminating the space with brief bursts of light.

Sephiroth's counterattacks were relentless, his agility and strength seemingly boundless. He moved with the fluidity of a predator, each step silent and precise. Cloud breathed in short, ragged gasps, but he refused to back down.

Sephiroth's mirroring tactics grew more aggressive as the battle raged on, his strikes more brutal. Cloud felt the weight of his responsibility pressing down, but he channeled that pressure into his movements. He knew he had to hold his ground, to stand firm against the darkness threatening to consume all that he held dear.

Recovering from her initial shock, Olivia summoned her courage and leaped into the fray, her sword gleaming in the dim light. "You're not alone in this!" she shouted, her voice steady and determined. "We'll face this together!"

Side by side, Olivia swung her sword, their blades connecting in synchronized strikes that sent shockwaves of energy spiraling outwards. Sephiroth retaliated with a wave of shadowy dark magic, conjuring tendrils that swirled around them like wraiths, aiming to ensnare them.

"Stay close!" Cloud yelled, deflecting the dark tendrils with fierce strikes. Olivia matched his movements, seamlessly working in harmony beside him.

With each swing, Cloud and Olivia fought with unwavering resolve and power. They shoved Sephiroth back, creating an opening. Cloud glanced at his partner. "Olivia, let's dance as one!"

Olivia nodded, aligning her sword with his. Moving in perfect sync, they executed a flawless Universal Twist, their blades flashing in a dance of deadly precision. Their synchronization was effortless as they moved, each motion complementing the other's.

Cloud swung his Fusion Sword in wide arcs, his strength and speed creating a whirlwind of destruction. Olivia followed his lead, her swordsmanship agile and precise. Together, they were an unstoppable force, their blades slicing through the air with a lethal grace until, at last, their opponent fell to one knee, weakened and defeated.

At that moment, two doors suddenly opened.

Mirage rushed to her parent's side as fast as she could the moment she saw the situation. "Father?! What's happening? Are you okay?" Behind her were Virion, Miriel, and Donnel.

"You guys? What are you doing down here?" Vaike asked his friends as he entered the room with Tharja from the opposite side. He looked at Cloud, Olivia, and the mysterious white knight. "And who is he?"

Miriel adjusted her glasses, her expression one of mild bemusement. "It appears that Vaike, in his infinite knowledge, has chosen to align himself with one of our adversaries."

Virion approached with a knowing smile. "Ah, dear Miriel, our Vaike does have a knack for turning the most unexpected situations into opportunities. Perhaps there is a method to his madness, though it often eludes the refined and logically inclined minds like ours."

Donnel stepped forward, scratching his head. "Well, Vaike always did have a way of seein' things different. Can't say he don't keep us on our toe- WHOA!"

Dark energy abruptly enveloped the white knight, halting everyone's actions as a fierce wind whipped against their faces. Cloud stepped forward, raising his sword high. "DIE ALREADY!" With a downward slash, he struck the ground where he stood fiercely as the abnormal stranger had already vanished, leaving only the Black Materia rolling on the stone floor.

"Your efforts are as empty as the void you'll soon be cast into."