Post by msgrrtasticdiva1982 on Jan 9, 2015 23:26:45 GMT -6
Volume II: Timeless Refuge
Another world has been lost to the Chaos. As he sleeps in the arms of his Guardian, adrift in never-ending Cosmos, the Keeper of Souls reflects on the mistakes he made---the bad decisions that resulted in the fall of Victory City. Sadly, he’s unable to compartmentalize well enough to develop a logical theory. Based primarily on this inability, Zephyr concludes that he has no other choice but to accept defeat. Yes, he did save two Souls from being consumed by the Chaos with the aid of Curtis, Keeper of Flames; however, the greater number of losses---Zephyr is unable to look past that. (Ms. Kisaragi. Ms. Hazuki. Curtis. I saved them, but what about the others? … Were they lost to the Chaos? Did Insidious succeed in banishing them to eternal naught?) Unbeknownst to the drifting Souls, Zephyr and Curtis are presently transcending an unseen barrier found on the farthest reaches of the Cosmos. The Souls of the Universe saw their continued existence, well enough to set them upon grounds environed by a majestic silver city. (O precious Souls of the Universe … Where have you taken us?) Neither of them feels their gentle landing upon these grounds in whereabouts unknown. But they can sense the circulating currents, and the eeriest sensation: the touch of Chaos from every corner of this new world. (Huh? Why does it feel like … Where are we?)
Curtis is the first to open his eyes, and notice the dreary beauty of this mysterious world. He looks down and notices his friend laid in his arms, which brings to mind a time of yesteryear---when he was in his early-20s: Zephyr was a little boy, much older than when Curtis met the Keeper of Souls in his toddler years. He would always rush into Curtis’s arms amid a clear sky, and fall asleep just like this. (Well, this takes me back. Damn. Just looking at you now … Zeph, it’s been a long time.) Curtis lightly pets the Keeper of Souls’ head, recalling how this gesture would make Zephyr smile. And it happens---the Keeper of Souls’ face distorts with comfort and joy. (Aww, look at that. Snuggled up like a little lovesick puppy … Humph. Things never change.)
“Mmm … Curtis?” Zephyr’s eyes open slowly, as he clings to the Keeper of Flames like a helpless child. “Your heartbeat is really comforting. Almost like …” This statement flushes Curtis just slightly, having never heard such words from another man. Zephyr pushes himself off the Keeper of Flames, sits on the pavement, and rubs his eyes. Curtis sits up and observes their surroundings, after having regained all his senses. “This world. Everything about it feels … unnervingly peculiar.” Zephyr’s observes the new world with his cleared vision, and notices how gloomy everything appears. “I wonder where we are.”
The two world-trotters stand from their landing spots, dust themselves off, and notice the obvious differences from Victory City: this world appears to be separated from every other manner of life in the Cosmos. Zephyr can sense many Souls inhabiting this new world, but they feel lonely. Despaired. Dispirited. “What’s wrong, Zeph?” Curtis notices how sad the Keeper of Souls looks. “You look … Heartbroken and depressed. Like you’ve just lost your best friend or something.”
“It’s the Souls inhabiting this world, Curtis. They feel …” Zephyr shakes his head, confused by the rapid rush of feelings from this new world’s Souls. “I don’t know how to describe it. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever felt in my entire life.” The Keeper of Souls places his hands on his heart, looks forward, and sympathizes with these Souls. “These poor people. I can feel their sorrow … I need to collect these Souls as soon as possible. But first, I must find a way to dispel the Chaos plaguing this world.”
Suddenly, a curious sound from behind them turns Zephyr and Curtis … To the sight of a shady fellow donning foreboding blacks, purples, pinks, and decorative accessories. Wild midnight hair and cold blue eyes, wielding a great sword with the likeness of a cursed raven’s wing. “If you want to free these Souls and purify the Chaos, you must first kill the Goddess. Standing in your way, however, will be a great warrior.” The world-trotters pay close attention to this shady character’s advice, as he walks past them, and observes a large building in the distance. “Her name is Lightning. She is tasked with protecting the Goddess, and seeing all Souls to this world---where they shall find eternal slumber in the quietest of naught.”
Curtis queries the enigma, who appears to be a being of power. “Who are you?”
“… If you need a name, call me Caius. Caius Ballad---the man who shall kill Etro, and her noble vassal.” The world-trotters are somehow repulsed by this profile. Caius turns to them, tall, broad and strong, with eyes that look as if they can see into their Souls. “You two are not from this world. In fact, I can sense you possess great power … Who are you?”
The Keeper of Flames steps forward and protectively responds. “Curtis Hussey; I’m originally from the planet Earth. And this young man is my friend Zephyr; he’s from a far-off planet called Elysium.” The enigmatic Caius scoffs at Curtis’s brief profiling of his party, turns to them, and notices the fire in the Keeper of Flames’ eyes. “What? Fascinated already?”
“Humph. You amuse me … You are this young man’s elder, yet you possess the heart of a child. You are unlike any man I’ve ever met, Curtis Hussey.” Caius’s attention turns to the Keeper of Souls. “And you, young man, are very tranquil. At the end of the world, your kind was easily felled by the monsters that roamed the plains. Tragic losses, all of them.” Caius returns his attention to the grand building in yonder sights. “I must say to the both of you: it appeases me to see gentlemen of your ilk in these turbulent times. But I must now take my leave---to realize my destiny. For her sake.”
Caius parts to tend to what he calls “his destiny”. Curtis folds his arms, having developed bad vibes about the enigmatic swordsman from the end of the world. “He seems convincing enough, but … Something isn’t right about him.”
Zephyr queries his uncertain Guardian. “You think we should follow him?”
“If what he says about these Etro and Lightning characters is true, then we’d better stick close to him. Still …”
“I know, Curtis. I feel the same way.” The Keeper of Souls rallies his Guardian. “Come on. We need to keep an eye on him.” Zephyr follows the enigmatic Caius, in hopes of obtaining some unsaid answers. Curtis loyally follows the Keeper of Souls, upholding his duty as Zephyr’s Guardian … The party knows not the time that passes amid their traversing of the silver city. But the journey is nonetheless comforting, regardless of the touch of Chaos lurking around every corner. This new world … It feels like a home away from home; a haven for those who have lost their way. However, both Zephyr and Curtis can’t escape the uneasiness of the Chaos in their midst. “It’s strange. I feel afraid and comfortable at the same time.”
“You too, huh?”
“Yes, Curtis. This new world is teeming with Chaos, but it feels---I don’t know. Like a final resting place, perhaps.”
“This place is called Valhalla, the Unseen Realm.” Caius does not halt in his tracks or face them, but answers their curiosities most poetically. “A city drowning in the remnant of Chaos, where a peculiar structure stands quietly amidst this abandoned town. By the lifeless sea, crystals shine dimly in the sun. There is no sign of life in this city shrouded by a desolate sky.”
“Oh, I see.” Zephyr ponders curiously. “So, is that why my Cosmos is conflicted?”
“It delves deeper than that, my kindhearted friend. Valhalla is an otherworldly dimension, also known as the Unseen Realm. According to the legends of my people, Valhalla is the final resting place of the souls of the dead, and the chaotic world where the goddess Etro makes her home. Some theories describe this place as a city that exists beyond the flow of time, and others claim it is a future where time has come to a standstill.” Caius’s description is breathtaking. To think they landed in a world such as this one---Zephyr and Curtis are beyond words. “The Seeress of Paddra describes it thus: ‘The entire span of time can be seen from Valhalla. But to exert power beyond its borders, one must first open Etro's Gate.’”
Curtis intrigues. “Is that in your game plan?”
“It is, Curtis Hussey. I shall flood all worlds with endless possibility---that which exists in this world. But I shall foremost exact my initial goal; the deaths of the aforesaid beings protecting this Unseen Realm.” Suddenly, Caius is brought to a halt by a presence that is unfamiliar to both him and the Keeper of Flames. But as for Zephyr … He steps forward and stands at Caius’s side, beside himself with emotion. The dark-colored enigma notices his sentiments. “Do you know him?”
The said presence is the back of a man that has brought much happiness in Zephyr’s life: his adopted father, Kai. The warrior Priest of Light turns, and blesses everyone with his smile. “Son? Is that you?” The Keeper of Souls rushes into Kai’s warm embrace, unleashing tears of joy and relief. The Priest of Light pets his adopted son’s head, displaying affections that set Curtis into a state of mixed emotions: he’s happy that Zephyr has found someone he knows and loves, but watching them … The Keeper of Flames is reminded of a life-long desire---one he believe he’ll never realize. “I missed you so much, my son. When I awoke from slumber, I ended up here.” Zephyr looks up into the warm oceans of Kai’s eyes, the latter wiping the tears from the former’s cheeks. “I take you’ve become acquainted with Caius. He’s the one who found me and saved me.” Kai looks forward and notices Curtis, who bears a striking resemblance to the Priest of Light. “Oh. Are you also his companion?”
“Yes, I am.” The Keeper of Flames approaches with warm presence. “The name’s Curtis. Curtis Hussey.” He exchanges a bow with the Priest of Light, remembering the customs of Zephyr’s people. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, err …”
“Kai, a warrior Priest of Light from the Luminous Temple. Though I lost that title long ago, all thanks to my overzealous transgression.” Curtis stands upright, confused by what Kai says. The Priest of Light looks to Caius, whom has become somewhat of a friend during his time apart from Zephyr. “Brother Caius. Is the Warrior Goddess atop this monument?”
“That she is, my friend.” The armored enigma proceeds onward, looks up, and notices someone watching them from the monument’s summit. A woman clad in silver and gold Valkyrie-like armor with a shield on her left arm. She brandishes a sword in her right hand with an inscribed blade, and her presence is warm yet icy. “That’s her. Lightning, the Warrior Goddess. It is good you came along, but stay out of my way.” Caius bears a heated air against the Warrior Goddess, who shines the gleam of her sword to signify her defenses. “She will fall …” With a single leap of faith, the armored enigma leaps to humanly unreachable heights, and engages the Warrior Goddess most vigorously! “By my hand!” Lightning, the Warrior Goddess, returns his fervor with equivalent speed, power, skill, and elemental mastery. Zephyr, Curtis, and Kai look on at the spectacle of a lifetime---two warriors clashing in an unseen world where life, death and time do not exist. “Protector of Etro, your time is nigh!”
The Keeper of Souls is provoked to do something about this mindless battle. However, his father figure holds him still, confusing Zephyr to a sense of uncertainty. “No, Kai, please. This is pointless---their battle, it’s …” Kai admonishes Zephyr’s worries with a calm shaking of his head. “Kai, *seriously*. Why are you holding me back?”
“… Brother Caius has a score to settle---‘to end the suffering of someone special’.” Kai’s explanation draws Curtis’s attention to the battling warriors, who dance across the sky, clashing continuously. As expected, such vigor begins ruining the landscape; thus, putting the observing trio in danger. “Everyone, move!” Kai rallies his company, who rush to the open east, where they are safe from the ensuing carnage for a time. The trio recovers near an abandoned building, where they realize the after-effects of running for their lives. “By the cosmos above us … Those two are tearing this place apart.”
Curtis stands upright, turns and observes Caius’s battle with the Warrior Goddess. Never has he seen its equal---a contest between two warriors with equivalent battle proficiency. The fight between Cutie and Misty Honey was a sight to behold, but despite its tragic conclusion, their battle did not see such chaotic mid-developments. (I can feel it … These two are trying to kill each other. No-holds-barred at its best.) Suddenly, Curtis’s Cosmos sense an approaching energy---one originating from a place far beyond the reaches of Valhalla. (Huh? What’s this feeling?) The sky rumbles as if a rainstorm were approaching, which draws this attention to a most curious sight: the sky is parting, making way for something or someone falling from a dimensional fissure much like the one he witnessed during Zephyr’s former advent. The remnants of Elysium also notice the unexpected arrival---of a stranger than calls Zephyr to action. The Keeper of Souls amasses enough Arcane Energy to create a cloud of Souls that he mounts, and rides towards the plummeting visitor. Both Kai and Curtis are sent into a panic. “Zeph, where are you going!?”
“Son! Come back, please!”
Zephyr audibly apologizes post-departure. “I’m sorry!”
Kai holds his head, as if he were suffering a mild headache. “That boy. Always rushing into things.”
“That’s just how he is.” Curtis’s warm tone earns Kai’s concern. “I think we should both know better.” The Priest of Light can see it: the connection Curtis has with his adopted son---a very deep one. To think Zephyr has touched someone to this degree fills Kai’s heart with conflicted emotions. In truth, he doesn’t know how to which emotional route to take---to feel happiness for Zephyr, or protective anger towards Curtis. Still, he silently compartmentalizes, and remembers Zephyr’s mission as the Keeper of Souls. He concludes that Curtis is Zephyr’s Guardian, judging from the loyal glow in the said Keeper’s eyes. “You should be proud. I’ve known Zephyr for a long time, and he’s always been a good kid. It’s thanks to your parenting that our meeting was possible.”
Amid Caius’s struggle with Lightning, the Warrior Goddess, Zephyr’s ride upon his unnamed cloud of Soul sees positive results: he successfully comes to the aid of a young brunette male donning an ensemble confessing tribal or savage ancestry, but civilized-appearing enough to be fit in with rural societies. There’s something majestic about this young man, whose countenance telltales untold strife and loss; like a faint whisper of unsaid rantings. “That was a close one.” Zephyr aids the young man in mounting his cloud of Soul. “Hold on tight. This ride’s not necessarily meant for two.”
“Thanks anyway. Better this than the ground.” The inviting young transcender shows signs of straightforward and direct viewpoints, which tickles the Keeper of Souls. Together, the two young men observe the climactic battle in the distance. The young transcender recognizes one of the contenders, who incites a sense of relief. “Caius?”
Zephyr recognizes the transcender’s reaction. “Do you know Mr. Ballad?”
“Yes. At the end of the world, he was my rival. And in many cases, my friend, along with …” The transcender takes a moment to compartmentalize the current situation. This isn’t a time for personal thoughts or sentiments; thus, he focuses on what must be done at the moment. “Can you get us closer to them? I normally don’t interfere in his affairs, but---I need to know the truth.”
“As you wish.” These three words … They are the initiators of a great journey for the transcender, but they will also have great meaning in his life. These accepting words uttered by the Keeper of Souls … Upon the cloud of Souls, Zephyr and the transcender make their way towards the conflict in the distance. “By the way. My name is Zephyr.” The transcender seems impressed by the Keeper of Souls’ name, though he quickly refocuses on the situation at hand. “And you are?”
The transcender proudly responds. “Noel. Noel Kreiss.”
“Noel Kreiss, you say? Nice.” Suddenly, as if it weren’t expected, a random spawn of airborne Soulless impedes their path. “Oh, no!” Zephyr steadily brings his cloud of Souls to a halt, in order to secure his passenger’s safety. The transcender named Noel observes the monsters before them: winged Soulless resembling a family of wyverns. “Of all times … How unfortunate.”
“What are those things?” The transcender anxiously intrigues. “They don’t look the monsters back home, that’s for sure.”
“Soulless---those without Souls. They eternally hunt those with Souls, and take them, in order to gain one of their own.”
“So these … are called ‘Soulless,’ huh?” Noel shifts his vision between Zephyr and the Soulless a single time, before drawing a two-bladed sword from a holster on his back with his right hand, and leaping from the cloud of Souls with incredible dexterity. “Well, I’m not giving up my Soul, but I’ve got plenty of spirit to share!” The daring transcender awes the Keeper of Souls, as he aerially draws a smaller sword from the hollow metal section of the larger one’s hilt with his left hand, and fiercely engages the Soulless. Zephyr spectates in silence… Noel’s dual sword-wielding technique reminds Zephyr of Rain, a warrior Priest of Light whose skill was quite similar in nature. “Time for the big finish!” Noel combines his swords by their hilts, creating a spear that he uses to cut through the Soulless one by one, finishing the final Soulless with a decisive advancing slash! “Split apart!”
Ironically, Noel’s daring endeavor caused him to traverse the skies in time, placing him several feet above the summit of a building. The brave transcender lands safely upon the rooftop, which was part of his initial plan from the very beginning. Zephyr chased after him the entire time, observing his incredible feats in awe upon his cloud of Souls. “That was incredible!” Noel turns to the arriving Keeper of Souls, who smiles upon him with considerable impression. “Did you learn that fighting monsters?”
“Yeah. ‘Do whatever it takes to survive’.” These six words … As with Noel, these words are initiators that will commence an unseen journey within Zephyr’s heart. Noel has absolute no idea how much he’s inspired the Keeper of Souls; a young man who is very impressionable, and equally observant. Zephyr concentrates his Cosmos, causing his cloud of Souls to expand well enough for Noel to mount and stand upon it. “So you can manipulate the size of this thing? Nice. Now, let’s go meet up with Caius.”
“As you wish.” With a focusing of his Cosmos, Zephyr’s cloud of Souls carries them towards the ensuing battle.
Elsewhere, in the chill of darkness, two voices provide saving grace to the fallen. “Come on, you’ve got to wake up!”
“Mmm …”
“Oi! No use laying around. On your feet, you two!”
A set of eyes are encouraged by these voices, who somehow give them the energy to open. (Could it be …)
These eyes open to a pale grey sky; the very same one belonging to Valhalla. In fact, the Unseen Realm is where they have been spirited. “Nice timing, mates. You’re missing ‘the spectacle of the century’ here.” April and Joe are the ones who were revived, and their resuscitators are none other than … Fang and Syd, who also survived the fall of Victory City. As April tends to her ringing head incited from prolonged slumber and exposure to the Chaos, Joe notices a familiar image in the distance: Sean, his recent opponent and a young man showing much promise. “Take your time, mates. Even spectator sports require a little energy.” Fang turns to the recovering twosome, and addresses them with a smile. “Looks like the darkness didn’t stop you either, eh?”
April recovers well enough to notice Fang’s complete image. “You …” A relieved smile decorates the former’s face, who looks right and notices Fang’s younger accomplices. “And the kids as well?” Joe stands and aids April in doing the same. “Thanks.”
“Don’t mention it.” A distant collision rings throughout the airways, casting a transparent shockwave across the sky! Ironically, the party receives a most unexpected arrival from the hasting Curtis and Kai, who halt just steps before April and Joe. They notice the duo’s arrival---Joe being the one to sardonically taunt Curtis. “Bout time you showed up. And who’s your friend?”
Curtis composes himself well enough to answer. “This is Kai---Zeph’s father. He’s a good guy, trust me.”
Kai is much too focused on the ensuing battle to speak. At the moment, all he can think about is his son---whether he’s doing well, or if he’s somehow stumbled upon misfortune. “… Zephyr …” The pain in his voice earns the attention of the party members in the foreground, even the vigilant Sean, who notices the arrived with a smile. “… I can’t sit back and do nothing.” Kai’s resolve distorts that smile into a state of seriousness. “He’s my son. I *have* to be at his side … Excuse me.”
In the blink of an eye, Kai displays incredible physical abilities---leaping to incredible heights, post-Cosmic concentration. Fang follows, as does Sean, April, and Joe. “Oi, where’re you hasty goofs running off to?” Syd becomes impatient, as he’s not a world-class athlete, and is incapable of such feats. “Oh … Bugger! Leaving me all alone like that. Bunch of overgrown jerks!”
Curtis places his hand on Syd’s head, earning his fascinated attention. “Hey there, kid. Need a lift?” The psychedelic gentleman walks forward, bends down, and positions himself in a mounting fashion for Syd. “Hop on. I’ve got room for one.”
Syd proudly excites. “Alright!” The kid prodigy mounts Curtis’s back, who stands and speeds into the distance. “Hi-ho, soft back! Away ~ !” Although he remains silent, Curtis is having the time of his life. Experiencing wonders and spectacles originally thought as common fiction. He has even realized several key factors from his dreams, including his Arcana of Flames, which he utilizes to leap and reach humanly impossible heights. Syd, who mounts his back, bursts with juvenile elation. “Woo-hoo! Yeah!”
In the distance, perched atop a local building, a vigilant Soul observes the party’s progression towards the ensuing battle. A gentle young lady, whose presence incites a sense of inner peace. “Lightning … So many people have come to help you.” This young lady is somehow connected to the Warrior Goddess, who is currently locked in battle with the resilient Caius. She looks in the distance, and perceives the glow of Zephyr’s cloud of Souls. “This is fate. But … Why does everything feel so wrong?”
After crossing swords for several minutes, the enigmatic swordsman and the Warrior Goddess have broken away from each other to recover their stamina. The former seems more composed than the latter, bearing a coldness befitting that of a god. His icy eyes stare Lightning down with malice, as if he’s enjoying this endless waltz of blades. “Your fervor is much greater than usual, Warrior Goddess. But your blade has been dulled because of it. Tell me why.” Lightning does not speak, instead choosing to brandish her blade with pride once again. “Humph. As expected from Etro’s protector.”
“What did you do?” Lightning’s sudden enquiry captivates Caius. “People who shouldn’t be here are here. Meetings and encounters not seen in the Timeline.” The Warrior Goddess’ sword shifts into that of a gun, which she uses to remotely engage Caius using bullets constructed from non-elemental energy. The enigmatic swordsman dodges the bullets with ease, laughing at Lightning like a menacing beast. “… Laughter?” The Warrior Goddess shifts her gun into a sword once again, and chases the dexterous Caius with lethal aggression mixed with ire. “You think toying with the natural order is funny, you stupid fool!?”
Their collision expands yet another transparent shockwave across the airways, as their blades lock into a test of strength. “And so let the bells of corruption ring true!” Caius gazes into Lightning’s eyes with radiating cold blues, but this does little to shake her will. However, the enigmatic swordsman’s confession incites a hint of confusion. “For her, I would do anything.”
“Her … You’re talking about the Seeress of Paddra.”
“Yes, Warrior Goddess. I have made it my duty to free her of the Timeline’s hold. To end her suffering!” Caius unbuckles with great strength, distancing Lightning from him in time for Zephyr and Noel’s arrival. Despite their advent, the contenders only notice them from the corner of their eyes. “Why did you come here? Leave, both of you.”
Lightning breaks Caius’s icy front with a confession. “Don’t be fooled by him. This maniac has traversed the Historia Crux and placed anomalies in key eras of our original world. This place, Valhalla---it is the last of both Pulse and Cocoon.” Noel above anyone else is the most stunned by what the Warrior Goddess has said. Zephyr knows little about their world, but his anger is just as great, as is his sadness. “You, the one in jade. You’re the savior of all Souls, right?”
Lightning brandishes her blade in defense against Caius, whose unpredictability is not to be ignored. Zephyr is captivated by her direct query. “Yes, I am. My name is Zephyr, Keeper of Souls.”
“Name’s Lightning. I’ve seen you in the Timeline, and trust me … I know how it feels to be torn from your own world. But none of you were supposed to come here---except for you, Noel Kreiss.” The transcender is captivated by the Warrior Goddess’ statement. Out of all the visitors in Valhalla, he was the only one who was meant to appear here; a place where life, death and time are null. “Thanks to your old friend here, Valhalla is crawling with distortions. Still, with the Keeper of Souls around, we may just stand a fighting chance.” Caius’s icy personality does not falter, but he does realize that his lies have been unveiled. “Caius, it’s time to own up to your web of *deception*!” Lightning casts a crescent wave of non-elemental energy with a swipe of her sword, forcing the enigmatic swordsman from his perch point. He recovers atop a nearby building, where he begins invoking a curious crimson glow from his chest. Lightning extends a warning to Zephyr and Noel. “Stay back! He’s going for a big one!”
Caius’s invocation generates a spiraling geyser of what appears to be Chaos from his chest, which constructs a massive cloud of darkness above him. “Cast your shadow over all, wings of night!” The cloud of darkness disburses, revealing a monstrous entity different from any creature Zephyr has ever seen. Caius controls this beast with word alone. “O noble Chaos Bahamut, impede our approaching friends, and give me time to deal with the Warrior Goddess.” The winged beast turns and pursues the oncoming party in the distance, alarming the others. “Do not worry. He will not hurt them, unless they provoke him.”
Considering the situation at hand, Lightning has no other choice but the compartmentalize, and act upon a foreordained action: the summoning of a curious little white creature with a red nose, a jeweled bobble on its head, and a pudgy exterior with a time-themed wand its its right hand. “Noel, Zephyr, take him and find my sister Serah. It’s a present.”
The adorable creature flies up to the said twosome on teeny batwings. “Hello there, kupo!” Caius snickers at the peculiar sight, remaining calm in the face of such developments. To him, it doesn’t make a difference---Caius will see his beloved freed of her curse, even against these odds. “Hope you have room for one more.” The little creature materializes into a violet, silver and golden bow emblazoned by the same crystal from its bobble, and lands in Zephyr’s hands. “Let’s get out of here, kupo!”
Caius coldly pardons them. “Go, all of you. It’s best none of you get involved.” Noel observes Caius, his friend and rival, and the Warrior Goddess with conflicted eyes. “Noel. Remember what I taught you: survive, so you can carry on my legacy. Long have I lived, but even I am not promised an eternal life. Now all of you, leave this place.” Lightning looks to Zephyr and nods proudly, confirming her like sentiments in silence. The Keeper of Souls complies, manipulates his cloud of Souls, and carries his party towards the pending encounter with Chaos Bahamut. “Now, where were we?” The Warrior Goddess returns her attention to Caius, whose presence rouses her blade once again. Lightning takes to the enigmatic swordsman most aggressively, their passions equivalent in every manner imaginable. “A wasted effort, Warrior Goddess. Your sister will make none the difference.”
“You’re challenging *my* resolve?” Lightning repels Caius with unrelenting fury, sending him crashing through a neighboring building with a swing of her blade. “Go ahead! But I want you …” The Warrior Goddess sees Caius’s cold eyes shining through the dusty rubble, which confirms his survival. She points her cold steel at him from her elevated position, and addresses the enigmatic swordsman with passionate tone. “I’ve been defying the odds for a while now, and I’m getting good at it!”
“Is that so, Warrior Goddess?” Chaos builds from the fissure created by Caius’s collision, as the enigmatic swordsman ascends from his position, shelled by an expansive field of the said supernatural energy! “Then allow me to test your experience!”
The Warrior Goddess returns his fervor by surrounding herself with an equally powerful field of non-elemental energy, leaping from her elevated position, and engaging him with thunderous aggression! (Noel, Zephyr, everyone … Take care of Serah.) Amid an explosion of elements incited by their clashing passions, Lightning says a silent prayer, in hopes that it reaches the aforesaid hearts. (The calamity created by Caius’s transgression has corrupted more than one world. Hundreds, maybe even thousands of planets out there are in grave danger. Countless Souls lie in the balance of life and death … Serah has something very special---a latent power that will help your initial mission. Work together, all of you, and stop the end of the universe. I wish I could help, but I must stay here. Be there by her side, always---because I no longer can … You have my best wishes.)
The traversing party has reached a dead end: Chaos Bahamut impedes their path, as instructed by its master Caius. Upon safely landing on the gloomy pavement upon a bed of fleeting flames, Curtis allows Syd to dismount his shoulders. Kai grounds himself as well for this occasion, as the others arrive by foot. “Confounded beast! We won’t be able to reach them like this!” The Priest of Light suddenly notices something peculiar about Chaos Bahamut. “Strange. Why is it not moving?”
Fang extends her experience with monsters. “This one’s tamed. Someone told it stay put.” Chaos Bahamut shows some sense of intelligence with a confirming nod. “Well, what do you know. It understands us. That’s not something you see everyday.”
Suddenly, Sean notices a delighting oncoming sight. “Hey, look! It’s Zephyr and …” Upon seeing the Keeper of Souls’ passenger, a curious feeling befalls him. Sentiments he’s unable to understand. “Who … Who is that guy?” The airborne twosome bypasses Chaos Bahamut, but doesn’t take the beast by surprise. Noel dismounts Zephyr’s cloud of Souls with a leap just inches way from the ground, which places him right in front of Sean. “Err …” The Shotokan hopeful acts cordial. “Sup! Who are you?”
Noel stands and gives Sean an uncertain look. “Sorry, man. We need save the introductions for now.”
Given the transcender’s straightforward response, Sean develops an uncertain air about Noel in his own right. The latter turns and faces the Chaos Bahamut, as Zephyr dismounts his cloud of Souls and calms his Arcane Energy. The Keeper of Souls is pleased to see everyone’s alright. “It’s just like I pictured in my dream …” Curious beyond comparison or description is her arrival---the young lady who observed the party’s gathering from an elevated perch point. Everyone, even Chaos Bahamut, notices her mysterious advent. “The giant monster from Caius’s heart; a Bahamut constructed from the Chaos.”
Zephyr’s Arcana senses something about the young lady. “You’re … Serah Farron, Lightning’s little sister.”
“Yes, I am.” The revealed Serah recognizes him. “And your … Zephyr, right?” The Keeper of Souls nods, confirming Serah’s dreams about this specific meeting. She then notices Fang, whom is from her world, and warmly takes to her. “You were one of the people who fought with Lightning and Snow!” The nomadic warrior refocuses her attention on Chaos Bahamut, who looms above the party with intimidating air. Serah looks to Noel with a smile. “You have something for me, don’t you?”
“… Yeah, a present from your sister.” Noel presents the transformed creature to Serah, which changes back to its original form in a small burst of non-elemental energy. “Apparently, this Moogle will come in handy for you.”
The creature called a Moogle introduces itself to everyone. “Hiya! Name’s Mog, kupo. Lightning’s entrusting me to help all of you out.” The Moogle named Mog turns upon its teeny batwings, and focuses the entire party. “That’s Chaos Bahamut, kupo. Serah is right---that monster is from Caius, but it’s not that simple. Chaos Bahamut is the will of the Chaos itself, kupo.”
“So that means we have to beat this thing?”
“Yes, but you can’t right now.”
Joe confusedly queries Mog. “Why not? Is this creature unstoppable or something?”
“Guys, it’s THE will of the Chaos. If you want to defeat him, you’ll have to become much stronger than you are right now, kupo.” Mog’s explanation places everyone at odds with their own abilities. Yes, they may have accomplished something great by surviving the fall of their worlds, but to face and conquer Chaos Bahamut---that is a feat of which none of them are currently capable of achieving. “We need to go, kupo. I know a way out of here. Follow me, kupo!” And so they heed the Moogle’s advice, following him far from the defending Chaos Bahamut’s radiant sights. The sentient spawn of Chaos knows that they will return; for, it is an extension of Caius’s heart---a man who, despite being one of a convoluted nature, believes in the power of possibility. (I promise, Lightning.) In his heart, Mog makes a silent promise to the Warrior Goddess, who bravely clashes with the almighty enigmatic swordsman. (I’ll bring them back here some day. But for now, Mog has to keep his promise, kupo!)
Meanwhile, the clash between the aforesaid contenders has seen climatic heights, fierce in-betweens, and trying lows. Both Lightning and Caius have fought bravely, neither one willing to concede. The Warrior Goddess has pushed herself beyond her limits; the power of Etro, the Goddess of Death and Rebirth, is beginning to dwindle. Even Caius himself has delved far too deeply into the Chaos inhabiting his Soul, which has all but consumed him. “This … This has to end …” Lightning brandishes her sword for one final attack, which will burn the very fabric of her blessed Soul. “I know you’ll go after them. After her … And I won’t let that happen!” Caius stands and brandishes his great sword, preparing to settle the score with Etro’s divine protector. “Countless worlds corrupted; the balance of history for each one---TARNISHED by your warped love for the Seeress of Paddra.” The enigmatic swordsman smiles, unfazed by Lightning’s sentiments, unremorseful and unregretting of his sins. Everything he does is for the Seeress of Paddra, whose name and identity remain a mystery. “And for that …” The Warrior Goddess engages Caius most fiercely, commencing a dance of will, souls, magic and swords! A contest of a hallowed duty made personal vendetta, and an eternal sorrow made unyielding will. “This is where you fall! I’ll make sure of it, even if I have to take you down *WITH me*!”
“I will NOT die today!” Resilient is the enigmatic swordsman, who wields his great sword as if it were an extension of his arm. Lightning’s equivalent skill keeps Caius on his toes, much to the latter’s enjoyment. The battle comes to yet another pause, as the two take a moment to recover their stamina. “… Your loyalty to those you hold dear is impressive, Warrior Goddess.” Caius’s recognition does little to move Lightning, whose coldness is likened to an impenetrable stone wall. Still, no matter how powerful she may be, just like her eternal nemesis Caius Ballad, she is only human. “We have pushed ourselves beyond the limitations of our bodies. Overexerted the fabric of our Souls … I extracted Chaos Bahamut from my body solely for that reason alone.”
“What?” Lightning is awed by this chancy gamble. “You mean … Caius, you *handicapped* yourself?”
“Yes, I did. But it was for a greater purpose.”
“Let me guess: the Seeress of Paddra?”
“Yes, Warrior Goddess. But not only for her.” Caius’s extended resolve takes Lightning by surprise. For a moment, the enigmatic swordsman trails away from the Warrior Goddess, and envisions his rival and friend Noel Kreiss. “That child. He *has* to become much stronger, so he can end my life … And become the inheritor of the Heart of Chaos.” Lightning remembers an augury of this encounter shown to her by her divine charge---an event that is predestined. Noel and Caius will have a duel to the finish, but that is meant for another day. She has also been shown something else: a tragedy that she hopes will not come to pass. “As always, Warrior Goddess, I thank you for showing me your passion. In these final moments, I must say: never have I seen a Soul mightier than yours. Now, I bid you farewell … Lightning!” Caius fervently engages the Warrior Goddess, burning the very fabric of his Soul! Lightning does the same, her Soul shining brightly amid the gloomy skies. “Destroy all, fires of the undying star!”
The Warrior Goddess invokes the depths of her charge’s hallowed favor. “O divine Etro, give me strength!”
Shining blades of contrasting light collide, razing a large portion of the Unseen Realm! In the distance, the retreating party halts and turns to observe the fall of Etro’s Gate … Caius Ballad, a legendary hero torn between desperation, love and Chaos, has realized his primary reason for invading Valhalla … Now that Etro’s Gate has been destroyed, the Chaos inhabiting the Unseen Realm quietly leaks into the universe beyond its barriers. “Lightning …” Serah falls to her knees in a wave of emotion, and weeps for the first time in years … Or, if one counts the sleepless nights she’s endured---for the first time hours. Fang consoles Serah with a comforting hand upon her shoulders. “She’s gone … My sister is dead … I knew this would happen, but …”
“… She’s not dead, kupo.” Mog, still focused on the tragedy in the distance, offers a ray of hope with the knowledge Lightning has given him. “She is protected by the goddess Etro. Should she be defeated, Lightning will turn into crystal, and sleep until Etro’s divine will is realized.” He turns to everyone upon his teeny batwings, bearing faith in a time of loss. The onlooking bystanders can do nothing but observe his wisdom. “Lightning gave me to you, so you can help everyone fight. You can see into the Timeline just like the Seeress of Paddra.” Noel is unnerved about this, which does not miss Mog’s eyes, despite having his back turned to the said transcender. “I know it’s scary for some of you, but history doesn’t have to repeat itself. Kupo. With this many of us, we can crush those Chaos-toting baddies that much faster, kupo!” The doting Moogle’s natural charm brings a hint of laughter and flattery to his company, though it’s only temporary. “Serah. Please, remember your sister’s love. Hear her voice, and accept her divine blessing, kupo.” The Warrior Goddess’ sister focuses her attention on remembrances of Lightning, which manifest from her body as non-elemental energy that clads her with stylish garments and accessories, making her appear like that of a young huntress blessed by the goddess Etro herself. Gentle whispers of what must be done … The faintest memories made vivid, animated and true … Serah can feel Lightning’s power swelling within her like a quiet storm. “Kupo. It’s time, everyone.” Mog turns and, with a wave of his wand, casts trails of non-elemental energy that begin constructing a massive body in the distance. Syd is the first to step forward, recognizing the construction as if it were plastered into his memory. “This is a present from Mog, kupo! I added in a f-e-w touches of my own, but I hope you like it. Mog put his back into finishing this, you know, kupo!”
Emerging from the edges of nowhere, a mighty spaceship makes it presence known before the onlooking party. Both Syd and Fang are beyond themselves with excitement, but the latter regains her composure with a clearing of her throat. April notices this and gives Fang a humored grin, which makes the nomadic warrior blush. “It’s … It’s me baby!” Syd races up to the immaculate steel giant, his precious Aquila, but is halted by an odd occurrence: Aquila shows signs of sentience, by releasing a curious … and rather comical sound. “Huh?” It meows … Yes, just like a kitten, which throws everyone for a whirl. “… Huh?”
Mog bounces with elation and adoration. “Tee-hee! Isn’t she cute, kupo?” Syd stomps up to the Moogle, and claws his hands threateningly, as if he wants to kill him. “Hey, hey, take it easy there, kupo!” Mog attempts to reason with him. “It wasn’t my idea. I think it just kind of happened, kupo.” Syd isn’t buying it, and is dangerously close to throttling Mog to death. The kid prodigy rears his arms like a preying bear, and roars, causing Mog to fly away and hide behind Serah. “Yipes! Save me, kupo!”
Syd steams with malicious fury. “You little … You turned my Aquila into an overgrown steel pussy cat!?”
“Cait Sith, actually, and it wasn’t my idea, kupo!” Aquila meows longingly for its original creators, Syd and Fang. Mog pokes his head from behind Serah, and refocuses the kid prodigy’s attention. “Look, kupo. She misses you guys a lot.” The creators turn to Aquila, whose windows appear to be fogging up. “She’s crying, kupo. Aquila thought she’d never see you guys again.”
“What … happened to her?”
“I found her in the Void Beyond, and by that time she had a personality of her own. I honestly don’t know what happened, kupo, but I was the one who added in a few touch-ups. She’s complete, except for o-n-e little thing: an energy core, kupo.”
Fang steps forward, recalling the source needed to power Aquila. “An antimatter crystal. ‘Baby’ here needs antimatter to feed its fusion pulse engine, boosters and warp drive. Without it, she’s a sitting hunk of metal.” Aquila whines … Yes, she understood what Fang said. Syd gives Fang an irked glare, making her blush. “Whoops. Guess that was a bit harsh. Sorry, Aquila.”
The spaceship meows acceptingly. “I got just the thing to help cheer her up. Syd, lend me your hands.” The kid prodigy complies with the Moogle, who waves his wand and constructs yet another miracle: an antimatter core filled with an immense amount of energy; one so bright that it retains a concentrated glow in Syd’s hands. “There. This should do the trick, kupo!”
Among the amazed bystanders, Fang approaches the phenomenon with great intrigue. “This is … Mog, you’re doing us a great justice here. Thanks a bunch, little mate.” The nomadic warrior immediately focuses her comrades for the mission set before them. She stands proudly, behaving like a natural born leader. “Alright, mates, listen up: Pulse legend states that Valhalla is a place where time, life and death are null; they cannot touch it shores. However, should Etro’s Gate be destroyed, these rules are history along with the goddess herself---in due time, that is.” Fang’s explanation unnerves everyone, all except for Noel who possesses some advanced knowledge about Pulse mythology. “Within a month, Etro’s light will fade … And Valhalla will cease to exist. So for her sake, along with Lightning and everyone else from our original worlds, we need to ship out and start Soul-saving. Pronto.”
Serah steps forward, and makes an anxious confession. “I know about Insidious, Pandemonium and what they’re trying to do. Because of them, my sister, my fiancé Snow, and everyone across the universe is at stake here. One month. That’s not a lot of time.” Zephyr approaches Serah, gently takes her hands, and somehow calms her down. “Th-thank you, Zephyr. I’m … I’m fine, really.” He then embraces her, which she shockingly accepts. “… I’ll be fine, I promise. I’m just … I’m just scared, that’s all.”
“I barely know you, Serah, but I can already see it---we’re not that different, you and I. In truth, none of us are.” The Keeper of Souls releases the Warrior Goddess’ sister, turns and rallies his comrades with encouraging words. “And that is why we cannot concede to Pandemonium, Insidious, Caius, or anyone who stands in our way. My mission as Keeper of Souls has been modified: I, Zephyr, vow to uphold my duty as the chosen savior of all Souls; furthermore, I will work with my allies to remedy their respective troubles---regardless of their nature. This is my promise to all of you, forevermore.” Aquila meows and extends her boarding ramp, which earns everyone’s fascination. “She’s in accord with our hearts. And I can’t be angry with Mog … Aquila’s sentience is very adorable. Syd, Fang, we owe him a lot.” The two creators nod agreeably, realizing what Zephyr says is true---Mog has done so much for them just by doing this. “So, let us partake of our winged brother’s blessings.”
The Keeper of Souls proceeds up the boarding ramp, and his company follows in his wake. Pretty soon, the party members are all seated and secured in the flight deck, which is quite spacious, as is most of the Aquila. “Alright, here goes nothing.” Syd approaches the antimatter storage unit, and places Mog’s gift into the said space, which immediately energizes the entire ship in a matter of seconds. “It’s working!” Syd excites, before rushing up to the captain’s station, as Fang begins setting coordinates for the nearest planet in the outside universe. “Oi, Fang. What’s the closest celestial body to this joint, mate?”
The nomadic warrior shows much knowledge of the Aquila, as she immediately locates the nearest planet: a curious celestial body that appears much like that of Earth. “Looks like it’s someplace not too far from here. Judging from these atmospherical stats, it’s an inhabitable body.” As the crew doesn’t have much choice in the matter, Fang sets the ship’s coordinates for this anonymous planet. “It’s our best bet, mates. It’s either that or we roam space for god knows *how* long.”
“Very well. Onward to err … Planet X!”
“You don’t have to tell me twice, mate.” Fang completes setting the Aquila’s flight coordinates, which activates the spaceship’s fusion pulse engine. “There. Coordinates for ‘Planet X’ are good-to-go. She’s ready to launch on your word, Captain.”
Syd nods and presses the Aquila’s ignition button, which activates her boosters. The sentient steel giant unleashes an excited meow, as it ascends from Valhalla’s gloomy pavement, compartments its landing gear, and takes off into the skies above. (My, my, my, my, my, my, how *wonderful* does this story unfold.) As if it weren’t expected, the seeker of naught bears his presence even in this world, where the Chaos slowly leaks into the outside universe. Perched atop the same building where Serah once stood, seated leisurely on its edges like a carefree child, he judges the parting fleet in silence. (The Warrior Goddess wasn’t strong enough to defeat my brother-in-arms, the corrupter of time. They fought bravely, while you, Zephyr, spectated the entire time. You managed to make a few new friends and even reunite with your father … How good for you, but what about the fallen?) A random portal of Chaos constructs just inches below Insidious’s resting point. (Maybe you should just take a jump into the truth.) Ironically, Insidious does just that, diving into the fleeting portal with grace and humor. (Know what I mean, my darling little star?)
Valhalla has only one month of existence remaining. When the goddess Etro takes her last breath, so does her Unseen Realm, along with all those inhabiting it. Serah and Noel, two people from different eras of Fang and Lightning’s world; the foremost being the younger sister of the lattermost, and an acquaintance of those in-between … A path has been set for them by the lattermost, and they must realize it in order to make things right. Zephyr and Curtis managed to find Kai, April, Joe, Sean, and the aforementioned, but that leaves Celine, Aisha, and many others. Despite their losses, the more the fleet of the Aquila moves, the better their chances are of saving the Souls of the Universe, along with those doomed by an ever-fading temporal lifespan. (Surely, there is a miracle out there for us---just waiting to be discovered.) The Keeper of Souls observes the environing cosmos from his passenger seat, which is ironically between both Curtis and his father Kai. The lattermost comforts Zephyr with fatherly warmth, so very proud to be reunited with him. (Mog is right. With these numbers, we’re sure to see some manner of progression. I can honestly say, without a doubt, I have faith in these amazing people. With them at my side … I know the impossible can be made possible.) For the first time in a while, the Keeper of Souls closes his eyes, and rests his head on Kai’s shoulder. (Perhaps I should get some sleep. Kai … Father … I’m so very glad to have you back. Hopefully, luck will be on our side forevermore.) It will take some time for the Aquila to reach its destination, but until that time comes, may this temporary calm be a pleasant one.
Meanwhile, in the deepest of darkness, another of Insidious’s obscure communion makes his way towards their secret headquarters’ portal room, where he will transcend its borders to another world. Ambition weighs heavily on his mind, as his obscured profile exudes a most fierce air. “And just where do you think *you’re* going, former Shinigami?” Alas, his departure is impeded by the feminine Soul, who lounges against a nearby wall most vigilantly. “Until he returns, we are to remain here at Insidious’s behest. Caius has undoubtedly accomplished his goal, but that does not excuse *your* responsibilities.”
“… Do not take me for a follower, Amakusa!” Upon hearing his name being stated by his comrade, the feminine Soul named Amakusa steps into the darkest light, which reveals his grandiose and androgynous appearance. “Furthermore, do not reprimand me; for, I yield to no one, especially not *you* … Is that understood, summoner of demons?”
“Humph. Very well.” Amakusa folds his arms with contempt. “Do as you wish. But don’t say I didn’t warn you, Aizen.” The former Shinigami named Aizen repeats his comrade’s gesture of stepping into the darkest light. A man who stands like a ghost bearing the coldest yet most inviting presence … Even Amakusa turns his back to the former Shinigami, repulsed by the latter’s unorthodox and insubordinate nature---something he believes is “unbeautiful”. “May God be with you, my brother.”
Amakusa departs from Aizen in the coldest of silence. (That man … He submits to Insidious’s will with the excuse of yielding to his god’s “divine commandments”. Humph. I follow no one, not even this so-called “god” of his, and especially not that bumbling romantic blowhard … Heart of Pandemonium or not, his “behest” is none of my concern.) The former Shinigami, who bears ill sentiments towards his leader, turns and enters the third leftward portal from the centermost. As he transcends space, time and reality, Aizen contemplates what may come of his unauthorized invasion. (I’ve waited a long time for this---the moment when I will gain everything.) In his balled right hand rests an item that emits a curious sapphire glow. He holds the said item in his line of sight, revealing it to be a blue crystal containing a mysterious energy. (This Hogyoku will grant me the power to dominate the entire universe. Not even the almighty Pandemonium will be able to approach me. Yes, even the father of beginnings will bow before me … But first, I must dispose of “him”. The impertinent child who always stands in my way.)
Ironically, Aizen’s sentiments traverse the very fabric of spacetime and spirituality, somehow reaching the heart of one who has known him for a very long time … A young lady donning a cute yet conservative ensemble walks alone amid a rainy night, on her way to unknown whereabouts from what appears to be an academy. “Huh?” She can sense it---the former Shinigami’s life force pulsating from dimensions beyond her own. (… So, this is it. He’s coming to settle the score.) The said young lady suddenly senses a large collection of life forces approaching as well, all of equivalent capacity. (And who are these people? Huh … Strange. I wonder what business they could have on this planet.) The young lady turns and proceeds onward to her destination, leaving the said situation to the gods of fate. (Bah, oh well. Guess we’ll just have to find out when they get here.)