-Kleis POV-
"Oh, no, I'm in serious trouble," I thought with a sinking feeling as Polyxia's shadow grew. It was slowly but surely taking the shape of her Titan form. I knew I had to babble, or I'd end up as a flower in the underworld.
"Lady Thanatos, let me explain why I'm here," I began, watching Polyxia's surprise. "But I assure you, my being here is a complete accident." My casual tone seemed to amplify the fact that I knew her secret.
"You claim this is a mistake, but you knew who I was instantly," Polyxia challenged. "And also, I saw the way your eyes widened when you saw me. You recognized me just by looking. How is that possible?" I grimaced, realizing that without context I probably looked incredibly suspicious.
I realized I had to be honest with Polyxia to convince her. There was no way I could save Amphoreus alone; it was impossible. And I couldn't tell anyone the truth about him. If I did, there was a chance Lygus would figure it out. Besides, no one would believe me without proof.
Every single Chrysos Heir clarified their determination regarding the Flame Chase. They would all fight to the journey's end, as evidenced by Khaslana's enduring quest. Each Chrysos Heir would choose death over abandoning the Coreflame without proof of my honesty.
A brilliant idea suddenly struck me. I was in the land of the dead, and I thought maybe I could display my own memories here. I remembered that the Trailblazer's memories had appeared when they tried to escape. It wasn't a gigantic leap to think Polyxia, the Titan of Death, could also access and examine these echoes of the past. Amphoreus had many similarities to Greek myths. Although I didn't expect a perfect match, the similarities often resonated. Polyxia's Titan name was further evidence. In Greek myths, the Underworld had judges who decided the fates of the dead. With Polyxia as the only authority in this realm, she must have been responsible for determining where Amphoreus's corrupted soul would go. That suggested she must have some ability to view and scrutinize the memories of the deceased.
I might not be *actually* dead, like the Trailblazer, but with my lucid dreaming, I am close enough to being dead. "Lady Thanatos, look through my memories. See that I speak the truth, and understand that everything in Amphoreus is a lie," I announced, my eyes fixed on Polyxia. I wasn't concerned about the scepter discovering my memories with Blank; I'd ensure that part remained hidden.
Polyxia glanced at me, and then a flower materialized in her hand. She held it out to me. "Focus your memories into the flower, mister. We'll see if you're being truthful. If there's any deception in your words, you'll never leave," Polyxia said, her eyes ice cold.
I accepted the flower and poured all my memories of Amphoreus into it. I started with the Astra Express' arrival and went all the way to IronTomb's defeat. Wanting Polyxia to learn everything, I held nothing back. I watched as the purple flower glowed, filled with my recollections. "Here you are, Lady Thanatos; this flower holds the answer to everything. Be warned, what you see within WILL change everything," I said solemnly.
Polyxia grasped the delicate purple flower from my trembling hand. I watched, a knot of anxiety tightening in my stomach, as she brought the flower close to her heart, her fingers gently cradling the velvety petals. Her eyelids fluttered closed, a serene expression momentarily gracing her features. But the peace was fleeting.
I grimaced, a familiar pang of dread hitting me, as the first tears, like tiny, shimmering jewels, immediately welled in Polyxia's eyes. They were shallow at first, barely there, but quickly, the droplets multiplied, cascading down her cheeks in a silent torrent. Her breath hitched, her body trembling with the force of the unspoken emotion.
Suddenly, Polyxia's eyes snapped open, and she met my gaze. The shock, the disbelief, were stark and undeniable, etched into every line of her face. She opened her mouth to speak, perhaps to ask the questions that were swirling in her mind, but no words escaped her lips. The sound that came instead was a choked sob. Defeated, she raised her hands, covering her face as a fresh wave of tears wracked her body, the crimson rose now forgotten, falling gently to the ground. The only sound was the soft, broken cry that filled the air.
I wasn't sure what to do, so I knelt down and gently grabbed Polyxia's hand, my hand trembling slightly. Her grip tightened on mine, a silent acknowledgment of the shared pain. I watched as she cried, her shoulders shaking with the force of her sobs. Time slipped away from me; I couldn't blame her; every sacrifice, every hardship, every ounce of strength she had poured into this, all for naught. It felt like an eternity, but slowly, the intensity of her sobs subsided. The surrounding air became less thick with anguish, replaced by a heavy silence. Finally, the tears slowed, and her breathing returned to a semblance of normalcy. After a long moment, I spoke, my voice barely above a whisper. "Are you ready, Polyxia?"
Polyxia's grip on my hand tightened, nearly crushing my own. I felt the slow creak of my bones under the pressure, a physical manifestation of the immense emotional strain. Then, something extraordinary happened. A vibrant purple aura, like a living flame, swirled around her, engulfing her form. It pulsed with an energy I could almost feel, a tangible representation of her inner turmoil. The purple light settled, and Polyxia finally looked at me, her eyes meeting mine. In their depths, I saw a kaleidoscope of emotions: profound sadness, a simmering rage, a crushing despair that threatened to overwhelm her. But above it all, radiating with an almost blinding intensity, was a fierce, unwavering determination.
"What is it you need, mister?" Polyxia said her voice seemed to boom throughout the realm. I could feel how determined she was. I smirked at Polyxia, which she returned. "My name is Kleis, and what I need is a way into the Heart of Amphoreus," I said. Understanding immediately appeared on Polyxia's face.
"The Demiurge Matrix — what is it you intend to do there, Kleis?" Polyxia inquired.
"I need to speed up the Demiurge's birth," I said. "I want everyone in Amphoreus to be happy, but I can't do it without your help, Polyxia. The Demiurge is the Heart of Amphoreus, the opposite of Irontomb. If we can somehow give Cyrene the administrative right to her, everything will change."
For the longest time, I didn't know how I could save Amphoreus. The core of the problem is that Amphoreus is a program, a construct running within the system. No matter what internal actions I took, unless I could somehow alter Amphoreus from within its own code, nothing would change, nothing would improve its plight. That was when it struck me like lightning, a sudden and undeniable revelation: everything came back to Cyrene, the Demiurge.
Cyrene and the Demiurge were the same entity, linked inextricably. I recalled that Cyrene's Primum Mobile, the foundational principle upon which her being rested, was Lament. But that was not supposed to be it originally. I knew it could shift, morph into something entirely different. Out of everyone in Amphoreus, Cyrene stood as a complete anomaly, a being unlike any other with her as the Demiurge. I struggled to recall the specifics of her creation, of her purpose. I remembered with a flash of insight that Cyrene's Primum Mobile was not originally Lament. In fact, it was supposed to be Love. This was her initial programming while she simulated the path of Trailblaze. That was the case until Lygus changed with his Administrator privileges.
That was exactly what I needed. I needed to interweave a fresh path in Amphoreus. The Trailblaze is the path that brings miracles, and a miracle is what I need most. Cyrene was my best hope for a miracle because her Primum Mobile is love itself. I couldn't help but chuckle.
"Polyxia, we need a miracle to change everything," I told her. I watched as Polyxia frowned.
"Kleis, how do you plan to perform a miracle? It seems far-fetched to depend on one," Polyxia asked, clearly confused. Her question just made me chuckle even harder.
"Polyxia, let me tell you the story of a Fool," I began, my voice hushed with the weight of the tale. Polyxia, her eyes wide and intent, leaned in, drawing closer to catch every syllable. "That man was unlike any other, a man who, at one point, held the very world in his hands. He was capable of great things, and he was capable of terrible deeds. He took the lives of countless souls, the echoes of their screams likely haunting his every waking moment. All this, driven by a singular, unwavering pursuit—a goal that burned within him like a celestial fire."
I paused, allowing the gravity of his actions to settle between us. Polyxia's fingers, clasped in her lap, tightened slightly. I continued, "Despite the darkness that clung to him, a single, radiant belief illuminated his path, guiding him through five hundred years of living. That man was a paradox, this Fool, a testament to the complex tapestry of the human–or, in his case, perhaps something beyond human–condition. That man believed with every fiber of his being that love and emotional bonds possessed the extraordinary power to evoke miracles. With that belief, he embarked on a journey. What seemed impossible, he was capable of. He traveled to the very heart of existence, to the center of creation itself, and there, he created a whole new possibly," I finished, the last words hanging in the air like the promise of a sunrise.
I could tell my story captivated Polyxia. Her eyes lit up with the same excitement Castorice always showed. "What was that man's name, Kleis?" she asked, curious about the person I'd been describing. I considered telling her Otto's name, but was a little cheeky instead.
"Who knows, but I can tell you we look alike," I said cheekily, smiling as Polyxia pouted. "But to get back on track, Polyxia, love will bring about our miracle. To achieve that, we need to reach the Demiurge; that's our trump card," I finished.
Polyxia appeared to consider my words. "I understand Kleis, but there's an underlying problem," she said, leaving me puzzled.
"What's wrong?" I asked, and Polyxia gave me a pitying smile.
"Kleis, you're weak right now," Polyxia said, and I winced. I couldn't deny it; she was right. I was weak and didn't know how to fight.
"You're right, Polyxia. What do you think I should do?" I asked, and Polyxia's expression turned thoughtful before her face lit up.
"I have the perfect idea, Kleis. It'll help you get stronger, and fast! All you have to do is constantly fight a strong opponent," Polyxia said, clapping her hands together with a smile. I thought it over and smiled back.
"That's an amazing idea, Polyxia! Do you have anyone in mind? Wait... we're in the underworld. Can you even summon a Kremnoan spirit?" I asked, considering Polyxia's role as the Titan of Death and assuming she possessed that ability.
"Of course not, Kleis," Polyxia said, dismissing my idea. "Bringing back the dead for our gain would be disrespectful." That only confused me.
"So, who exactly do you want me to fight, Polyxia?" I asked, wondering who she meant. If she wasn't summoning a spirit, then who was it going to be?
"Me, of course!" Polyxia said, beaming. Her words threw me for a loop, and I couldn't help but glance at her wheelchair. Polyxia must have sensed my look, because she giggled, and it sent a shiver down my spine. Her next words did the same.
"Kleis, my dear new friend, you seem a bit confused," Polyxia giggled, and to my horror, she rose from her wheelchair, standing upright. "From your memories, you know I brought my sister back. What you don't know is that I left her with vague memories of her past skills, especially how to wield her scythe. And you don't know is who taught her," Polyxia added. I watched in dread as a purple scythe materialized in her hand. Polyxia's lone eye blazed with fire. I watched as the very realm seemed to shudder, ready for its mistress to fight.
"Draw your weapon, friend," Polyxia declared before charging. "I will make you into a warrior who can save Amphoreus. Prepare yourself!" Her sudden movement scattered the flowers all around us.
I barely had a moment to summon my Keyblade and bring it up. The ethereal weapon materialized in a flash of golden light, the familiar weight a slight comfort against the encroaching dread. My arms cracked with the strain as Polyxia Scythe clashed into my keyblade. The monstrous weapon, a swirling vortex of shadow and jagged edges, met my keyblade with brutal force. The impact drove the Keyblade into my palms hard enough that my fingers went numb, a searing pain quickly blooming into a dull ache. My arms cracked with the strain, joints protesting as if I were holding up the world. The muscles in my forearms screamed, begging for release, yet I held firm, my knuckles white against the weapon's grip. I skidded backward, my sandals carving twin lines through the field of purple, the ground giving way beneath as Polyxia pushed me back.
Polyxia didn't even try to break my guard. Instead, her gaze swept over me, studying my posture, my elbows, my feet, the angle of my wrists. "Too high," she stated, her voice even, almost friendly, as the edge of her scythe scraped against my Keyblade, making a sound like a sharpening stone. "Your defense is weak; you're practically inviting a Titan kin to impale you."
Polyxia twisted her wrists, but her scythe didn't slide. Instead, it snagged on my Keyblade. I barely had time to react before she closed the distance, the haft of her scythe cracking against my ribs. The air whooshed from my lungs, and the world narrowed into a bright, agonizing tunnel. I stumbled, instinctively curling around the pain, and that's when she tapped the back of my knee with her foot. It was just a light touch, but it was enough to buckle my leg. I hit the ground hard, crushing flowers beneath my shoulder. Polyxia ended the fight by planting the butt of her scythe in the earth near my head, like she was staking a claim.
"Up," Polyxia said.
I pushed myself up, coughing, and drew in shallow breaths that stung my throat. My ribs ached, and my hands still buzzed from the initial blow. "How," I croaked, hating the weakness in my voice, "do you move like that?"
Polyxia's mouth curved, not quite a smile. "Like what?"
"Um..." I trailed off, searching for the right words, but nothing sounded right, nothing felt genuine. "Like you already know what I'm going to do."
"You give yourself away," she said, her voice soft although she'd just broken me. She gestured with the scythe. "Your shoulders tighten first. Your eyes dart to where you'll strike, and your hips lag your hands. You're so predictable, any wild animal would know what you're about to do." Polyxia explained.
"You sound like you're trying to kill me," I chuckled, and Polyxia just giggled at my words, sending a shiver down my spine.
"Don't worry, my friend," Polyxia said with a radiant smile. "As the Titan of Death, I'll kill you and bring you back as many times as I need to." I could only shiver, realizing that Castorice was the gentle sister, and Polyxia, the demon.
Polyxia charged me again, and I could only think one thing in dread. 'This is going to be a long training session.' I thought as I desperately fought for my life.
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I could only breathe heavily as I lay on the ground. Polyxia was back in her chair, smiling like nothing had happened. "You did well Kleis you are very adaptable. You only died five times before you parried my attacks. If we continue like this, you will eventually reach the level of a Kremnoan General in a matter of days." Polyxia said with a smile. I could only groan in response.
I stared at the sky before I forced myself up. Looking at the sky, I couldn't tell how long it had been. For all I know, it was nearly morning. "Polyxia, I need to leave," I said. I watch as Polyxia's smile turns into a sad frown.
"I'm sorry, Polyxia, but I can't risk raising any more suspicion. If everyone in the Grove doesn't already know, soon they will know I can touch Castorice. Lygus will visit the Grove, so I'll be under his scrutiny for a while. I'll continue to visit you every night," I said, and a smile slowly returned to Polyxia's face.
"You're right, Kleis. I will open a path back to the land of the living. Once it's open, keep moving forward and don't look back," Polyxia instructed, raising her hand as a path materialized before me. "Go now, and don't look back, Kleis," she urged, her voice fading.
I retraced my steps, a flood of memories washing over me. With each step, the urge to turn around grew stronger. It felt like a persistent voice, whispering for me to surrender and stay. Ignoring it, I pressed on; the exit drew nearer, a beacon of light in the distance. Just as I was a step away, a thought struck me: 'I wonder if Polyxia is lonely here. Would she rather I stayed?' For a fleeting moment, the origin of the thought paralyzed me.
I could have sworn my vision turned red the moment that thought appeared. Before I could have entertained the thought of turning around, a familiar voice spoke to me.
"Wandering soul, now is not your time. Make your way back to the waking world. I'll guide you and illuminate the way out." My eyes trembled at the sound of Raiden Bōsenmori Mei's voice. How? We never interacted then it clicked.
I am traveling from Death to Life. Polyxia and Castorice simulated the path of Equilibrium. Between Death and Life is the Nihility. Lucid Dreaming touches the realm of the dead; I could be considered dead. My journey back to my body is my return to life. Polyxia can't leave this realm. That means I have to travel alone in the space between Origin and Finality. That space I know is the Nihility.
"Are you coming?" Acheron said, and I paused. I could follow Acheron, or I could do something beyond idiotic. But first, I needed to ask a question.
"We are in the still waters of Oblivion, right?" I asked, despite that, turning to face me, I could see Acheron tilt her head.
"That is correct. I am surprised few know this place." Acheron turned to face me. I could see she looked just like her game counterpart. I looked over Acheron and mentally gave Kiana a fist bump. Yeah, I get it, Kiana.
"If I leave, will you still be here, wandering souls that pass through the Nihility?" I asked despite knowing the answer.
"Yes, that is my role — to guide wandering souls like you out of the Nihility," Acheron said with an eyebrow raised. She seemed confused by my sudden question. Hearing her words, my decision was simple.
I closed my eyes. "I see... In that case, I'll have to do something stupid, Self-Annihilator," I muttered, snapping my eyes back open. Without a second thought, I grabbed Acheron's hand. "Raiden Bōsenmori Mei," I declared, and as Acheron's eyes widened at the sound of her name, the world faded to gray, revealing the Nihility's shore. "You're insane if you think I'll let you disappear into the Nihility's shadow while sacrificing yourself," I continued.
Acheron's eyes widened as she looked at me. "You understand you're trapped here, in the shadow of IX," Mei said, her voice filled with warning. "You'll be lost." I shook my head, already knowing the risks. I couldn't leave Mei, no matter what.
"Perhaps, but I won't let you get lost. Everyone needs a guiding light, Mei, and I'll be yours. That way, the darkness will never consume you, and you can always find your way back." I said earnestly. I summoned my Keyblade, focusing my mind until a single thought took hold: 'Connect my Light to hers. As long as I live, Mei must be able to find her path back to the Light. I know I'm not strong enough yet, but if you're listening, Keyblade, grant me this.' I thought, and as if in response, my Keyblade glowed, sending a faint beam of light into Mei's chest. It was subtle, but I knew it was enough.
Mei clutched her chest, bewildered. "What did you do?" she asked, her voice laced with confusion. "I haven't felt like this in ages." I watched a single tear trace a path down her cheek. Mei wiped it away, still not understanding why she was crying.
"I connect my Heart to yours; admittedly, it's not a bright light, but it's enough. When you feel like the Shadow of IX becomes too much, that light will guide you back to the Realm of Light. Mei, I have to go, but one day we will meet again. I have things to do, but our Hearts connect us. That means we will meet one day under the starry sky." I said. I turned away, leaving Mei to her thoughts. With Keyblade in hand, I let it guide me out of the Nihility.
'May my heart be my guiding key, in that case lead me home,' I thought, as my Keyblade lurched, pulling me in a random direction. With every step, I felt the Nilhilty's power wane, and a bright light grew stronger. I could feel myself getting warmer. I took a glance back one last time and saw Mei staring at me, lost for words.
"If you see Stellaron Hunter Sam, tell her I can cure her. And Mei, may your heart be your guiding key," I said as I stepped into the light.
I woke with a gasp, finding myself back in my dorm room on my bed. I stood up and watched as the light of dawn crept in. Feeling like a Keyblade wielder, I couldn't help but smile.
"Take care, Mei," I said, gathering my things for the day.
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-Acheron POV-
I'm not sure how long I stood there in the still waters of Oblivion, but I knew the impossible had happened. For the first time in ages, I could feel happiness in my Heart. I looked at my body and saw more red than before. Previously, there were hardly any, but now small drops were visible.
Closing my eyes, I was suddenly back in the bar. The food I'd eaten was right in front of me. I decided I'd deal with the boy later. Taking a bite, I paused. It tasted awful, undercooked. I tasted that ... My hands were shaking as I took another bite, and it was just as raw. My vision blurred, and for the first time in a long time, I could taste food again.
I stood up and walked out of the bar. Gazing up at the stars, I thought about that boy. "Meeting again under the starry sky... Guess I'll have to wait for that day," I murmured to myself. Whoever he was, he'd done something I thought impossible. I owed him, and the least I could do was to deliver his message to this Stellaron Hunter.
'May your Heart be your Guiding Key. That can not be too hard.' I thought, with that as always, I chose a random direction to walk. But this time it was different as hope filled my being for the future.
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Chapter 3: Origin and Finality End
Author's Note: Surprise Chapter. I hope you guys enjoy the chapter. In case you didn't catch it, the MC made his Heart connect to Acheron's Heart making a Light to guide her. It's dim, but the stronger he gets, the light will grow brighter until it becomes a lighthouse for Acheron. A good example is how Hope was the shining Star for Caster Artoria. A Single light in a Sea of Darkness.
May your Heart be your Guiding Key