The scene shows a back door opening, and Riku entering a restaurant. After Midgar, they thought their best option to find the fourth horseman, was through the World Lion Turtle. He positions them in the direction of one world where it was crawling with reapers. But, they didn't do anything, just stood still, waiting for orders. After some searching, Arc managed to find him in a pizza restaurant. He offered to go, but Riku said he would go in.
Now, said master was carefully and slowly making his way to see the man. His Keyblade was in hand just incase, and as he walked, he sees the staff and customers all dead, except for one man. Riku then gets ready for what'll happen next, when his hand starts to feel warm. He looks down and sees the grip handle on his blade was heating up. It became too much, and he drops the blade on instinct. He then looks up to see it on the table besides the man.
???: I was there when the X-Blade was first create. I often don't pick favorites, but it was by far one of the most beautiful things I had ever seen. Since then people made different versions of it, in an attempt to replicate its power. But, compared to the original? These are nothing but toys for children to play with. (Beat) join me, Riku. The pizza's delicious.
Still a bit nervous, he slowly walks over to the table and sits across from the man. He got a better look at them, and saw he had pale skin, black dull eyes, black spiked hair, and was wearing a suit as the coat was hung up. And on his right hand, was the final ring. It was Death himself.
Riku: you're... you're him.
Death: I am Death. What? We're you excepting me to be a skeleton with smoke, wearing a black cloak, and carry a giant scythe?
Riku: not really.
Death: those are the more dramatic versions of me. (Beat) it's about time you found me. I've been wanting to talk to you.
Riku: I won't lie—there's mixed feelings about that.
Death finally looks up at him, and despite still being alive, he couldn't help but feel a full sense of dread and fear from this being. Especially since he shows no ounce of emotion.
Death: I'd tell you to be calm, but... (takes a sip from his drink) you have every right to fear me. This is just one small world, in one tiny solar system, in a galaxy that's barely out of its diapers. I'm old, Riku. Very old. So I invite you to contemplate how insignificant I find you. (Serves a slice to him) eat.
Riku takes a moment to consider it. But not wanting to be a rude guess, especially to Death himself, he grabs a fork and knife and cuts a piece and eats it.
Death: it's good, isn't it?
Riku: (mentally agrees) well, I gotta ask. How old are you?
Death: as old as Kingdom Hearts. Maybe older. Neither of us can remember anymore. Life, death, chicken, egg. Regardless—at the end, I'll reap it, too.
Riku: (surprised) Kingdom Hearts? You'll reap Kingdom Hearts?
Death: oh yes. Kingdom Hearts will die too, Riku. (Resumes eating)
Riku: well, this is way above my pay grade.
Death: just a bit.
Riku: so, then why am I still breathing, sitting here with you? Uh... w-what do you want?
Death: the leash around my neck—off. Xehanort has me bound to him. Some unseemly little spell, thanks to that deranged lunatic, Cronos. He has me where he wants, when he wants. That's why I couldn't go to you. I had to wait for you to catch up. (Beat) he made me his weapon. Hurricanes, fires, floods. I'm more powerful then anything in existence, and I'm enslaved to bratty children having a temper tantrum.
Riku: and you think... we can unbind you?
Death: there's your ridiculous bravado again, of course you can't. But you can help me take the bullets from Xehanort and even Ataru's guns. (Sets utensils down and holds hand up) I understand you want this.
Riku: yeah.
Death: I'm inclined to give it to you.
Riku: to give it to me?
Death: that's what I said.
Riku: but what about...this world?
Death: (long pause) I suppose it can stay. I like the pizza.
He then removes the ring and holds it. But before giving it, he gives one more piece of advice.
Death: there are conditions.
Riku: okay. What are they?
Death: you have to do whatever it takes to send Xehanort to his grave.
Riku: of course
Death: whatever it takes.
Riku: that's the plan.
Death: no. No plan. Not yet. Your friend, Sora. He's the one who can stop Xehanort. The only one. Just as much as Arcturus is the only one who can kill Cronos.
Riku: (nervous) what, you think—
Death: I know. So, I need a promise. You're going to let your friend end that madman once and for all, and restore the natural order. (Holds ring out) well, do I have your word?
This was definitely a condition that brought a chill down his spine, and even made him worry. He knew Sora was training for this day to help restore the natural order, but this was something else. However, he knew they had to stop Xehanort and his Seekers of Darkness. Weighing his options, he makes his decision.
Riku: okay. Yeah. Yes. (Holds his hand out)
Death: that better be "yes," Riku. You know you can't cheat Death.
He drops the ring in his palm, and it felt like the weight of the world was placed right in his hand. Death then gives him instructions on what to do and he soon returns to the others.
*MYSTERIOUS TOWER*
Back at the tower, Riku explains everything to the gang as they're all shocked at what happened.
Sora: so Death hates being used to work for the bad guys, that he wants them to fail?
Riku: that's more or less what he told me.
Summer: it's honestly no surprise. While the other horsemen don't care who they work for, Death is neither good nor evil. He's merely a being doing his role in the natural order. Anything that threatens that order, threatens him. Including a group of villains trying to destroy the worlds.
Yen Sid: then I believe the time for waiting is over. With the horsemen's rings in our grasp, we have the chance to put an end to this Keyblade War. You've all trained and fought hard, and for that, I am proud of all of you.
Mickey: then that means, we'll fight together.
Kairi: if we all work together, we can do this.
Goofy: and Donald and I are no Keyblade wielders, but we'll always be right there to help keep ya steady.
Ruby: same thing with Weiss, Blake, Yang and I.
Weiss: we have your backs.
Blake: always.
Yang: till the end of the line.
Arcturus: cause that's what friends do.
Yen Sid: I admit, I was only anticipating seven guardians of light. But, I believe we have eighteen guardians with Arcturus, Roxas, Naminé, Xion, Terra, Ruby, Weiss, Blake, Yang, Donald, and Goofy. Today, you all recuperate. On the morrow, you journey to the fated place.
Everyone: right!
Summer: destiny is our friend. I know it.
The those words of wisdom, they all head back to their respective homes to rest. For tomorrow, their lives would change forever.
*LAND OF DEPARTURE*
Terra, Aqua, and Ventus were outside, looking at the night sky.
Terra: I've missed this. Back when things were more simple.
Ventus: we've gone without this for so long.
Aqua: I know. (Beat) Terra, Ventus, I'm sorry for what happened all those years ago. If I hadn't blindly followed being a master, I could've helped you two. The one thing that kept me going through that hell, was I had to get back to you two, and set this right.
Terra: Aqua, I never blamed you. You were right. I had let the darkness control me, and it costed us our friendship and family. Back then, I thought if I could beat the darkness, then I could prove to the master that I was ready. But I wasn't.
Ventus: I had let my ego go, too. I wanted to keep us together, but in the end, I just helped push us away.
Aqua: I guess, in a way, all of us were knuckleheads back then.
Terra: (smiles) yeah.
The three smile, and looked more out to the stars. Aqua and Terra then noticed Ven's expression being one of worry.
Terra: what's wrong, Ven?
Ventus: I guess, I'm a little scared?
Aqua: for the battle, or...seeing Strelizia again?
Ventus: both. None of us know what will happen tomorrow, but if we win, what then? What if Strelizia doesn't forgive me? She hates me, I know it!
Aqua: Ventus, the others told us she doesn't blame you, and that was a long time ago. Times have changed, and none of us see you differently because of that.
Ventus: but-
Terra: it doesn't matter. Who you were in your past isn't who you are now. I don't know why whatever that thing was possessed you, but you were a victim as well. And remember, no matter what happens, you're family, and we'll never abandon you.
The three then share a hug with one another, and even pulled their wayfinders out. Tomorrow was a big day, so they enjoyed their night together.
*TWILIGHT TOWN*
In the town, Maleficent and Pete were checking into another lead. Since they were practically thrown to the other side of Remnant, they wisely chose not to tempt fate when dealing with Arc. However, they still kept looking for the black box, but so far, didn't find it.
Pete: I've had it with this stupid treasure hunt. Every box we've found has been nothin' but a bust.
Maleficent: I agree. Our search ends today.
Pete: (confused) what-a-huh-now?!
Maleficent: you cannot find the unfindable. The box does not exist.
Pete: I knew they was takin' us for a ride.
Maleficent: silence, imbecile. I mean the box does not exist now.
Pete: is that some kinda riddle? Just where we s'posed to be lookin'?
Maleficent: Light and darkness are fated to clash. A Keyblade War is upon us. We need only wait for that destined moment. No matter the victors, the box will be revealed.
Pete: that's it?! But when's my big moment?
Maleficent: you will have it soon enough. Once I possess the box, our real work can begin.
They exit in a dark corridor and leave. At the other side of town, Axel was on the clock tower, watching the sunset. He then looks down to see his three friends playing with Hayner, Pence, and Olette. He couldn't help but smile at them. After every they had been through, they deserved happiness.
And speaking of, Lightning talked to him about what to do for them, and with some help, they were looking to help the three out. As Xion was practicing struggle, ne noticed how close Roxas and Naminé were. Ever since they escaped the dream world, they grew closer together, and he also noticed a similar thing with Xion and Riku. It puts a smile on his face to see them happy. His thoughts were interrupted by an old friend approaching him.
Saix: I'm surprised you're not saying good-bye to your real home. (Sits next to him)
Axel: what do you want?
Saix: I'm not here to fight. Relax.
Axel: excuse me if I don't find that reassuring.
Saix: seems like the old days. Back when we were still friends, we used to sneak into the castle.
Axel: yeah...
Saix: and we made a friend there, a girl. We apprenticed to Ansem the Wise to rescue her.
Axel: (bitter) yeah, and we failed. One day she was just done!
Saix: (turns to him) you gave up.
Axel: (turns away) I did not give up. One day we're apprentices, the next Ansem the Wise has up and vanished, the day after we're Nobodies, day after that we're doing icky jobs for Xemnas. I couldn't keep up with you.
Saix: following Xemnas was the only way to discover what happened to her. She was his lab rat,
Axel: so? You found her? I helped you rise up the ranks, so I hope it paid off.
Saix: I'm afraid not. Nary a trace. I started to wonder if we'd imagined her. Maybe she never existed. And then, in time, I awakened to a new purpose. I realized I could be stronger.
Axel: (scoffs) well, the, you blew it! Wise up already and just quit.
Saix: face it. Roxas, Xion, and even Naminé just filled in that void you hold. You must accept that saving them is impossible.
Axel: you wish. I'm getting her back. Those three down there will get their happy ending. And I'm even dragging your ass home, too!
Saix: the marks under your eyes. They're gone.
Axel: yeah. Don't need 'em.
Saix: (stands up) always told you they'd stop you from crying. The upside-down tears.
Axel: (frustrated) would you get lost? I'll clobber you tomorrow.
Saix: (smirks and opens a corridor) I expect no less.
He then leaves. Axel looks more a bit until he looks back down, sadden. Even though things changed between them, he couldn't help but be sadden that one of his best friends was still being used as a puppet. Still though, he swore that he would save his friends, no matter what.
*FUTURE CITY*
It was night time in the city. The girls had chosen to stay with Arc until the battle to come. While Lightning, Weiss, Blake, Yang, Clara, and Ace were asleep, Ruby woke up to find Arc wasn't there. She looks out the backyard and sees Arc looking at the night sky. She then walks over to him to check on him.
Ruby: it's late. What brings you out here?
Arcturus: I needed to think.
Ruby: (sits next to him) about what?
Arcturus: for starters, keeping up with a promise to you.
Ruby: which one?
Arcturus: when you told me to tell you if something was bothering me. Well, a little while back, I finally remembered something important. About Ace.
Ruby: what about him?
Arcturus: I actually created him.
Ruby: huh?
Arcturus: back when I was in the god form, I don't remember much of what happened, but there was one thing that stuck out. I experienced everything Shiro's previous vessels did, including all the good and bad moments. But, since I was the original vessel to Kuroi, I experienced all of his previous vessels did as well. And, it was all too much. So much good and bad. It was painful.
Ruby: (scoots closer) Arc... why did you mention it before?
Arcturus: because for a long time, I buried those thoughts so deep, I forgot them. And, that's when Ace came in. When Sora and the others freed me of that form, I separated all those memories from myself and they were sent out into a being of their own. I had a feeling Ace might've been that one, but I wasn't certain. And then after Redgrave, I realized it was the case.
Ruby: I'm sorry you had to see all of that, Arc. I honestly don't know anyone who could go through that. But, what I do know is, (holds his hand) you're not alone. I'll always be there for you.
Arcturus: (smiles) thanks, Rubes. (Looks out) you ready for tomorrow?
Ruby: it's not Salem, but I'll stand and fight. And in a way, every time I go on an adventure with you, I get less and less scared of the bigger threats. Because I know, no matter what, we'll always be together in our hearts.
Arcturus: yeah. And, if you want, when this is over, I can help you and your friends with Salem.
Ruby: (smiles) thanks, Arc.
The two then lean into each other and kissed. After a moment, they went back inside and went to bed.
*DESTINY ISLANDS*
The sun was setting as the Destiny Trio had gone home to their island. On the beach, Riku sat alone and looked out to the ocean. But, he then hears a familiar voice, of the original replica of himself.
Repliku: how long have you known that I was with you?
Riku: (looks to him) you did save me. I think you came along for a reason.
Repliku: I didn't make much of myself as a replica. I was a failure, and after you and Sora moved on, my body fell to ruin and the darkness took my broken mind. I was already to give up and let it happened, and then you showed up.
Riku: (chuckles) you took that as a sign?
Repliku: maybe. I'd rather face my end with you than in darkness.
Riku: that's...what you want?
Repliku: yeah. But I'm not done yet. Got one last thing to see through.
Riku: (understanding) take the time you need.
On the Paopu fruit tree, Sora and Kairi looked over to Riku, wondering what was on their friend's mind.
Sora: hey, why's Riku all alone?
Kairi: he said he needed time to himself. Let's let him be.
Sora thinks a moment, but was interrupted by Kairi picking a fruit and offering it to him.
Kairi: here.
Sora: huh?
Kairi: tomorrow's fight will be our toughest yet. I want to be a part of your life no matter what. That's all.
Sora: (accepts the fruit) and I want to be a part of your life. Kairi, I'll keep you safe.
Kairi: (shakes head no) let me keep you safe.
Sora and Kairi then remembered their cave drawings they made years ago. Neither of them were sure about what might happen tomorrow, but no matter what, they would face it together.
*NEXT DAY*
The next day, everyone was well rested and on the FireFly. They were all dressed in their gear and had checked their equipment.
Clara: you guys ready for this?
Roxas: ready as ever.
Xion: all our gear's ready.
Weiss: (loads Sword with Dust) it's just like Atlas.
Blake: true, except way bigger.
In the workshop, Sora was putting the final touches on a new weapon he'll need for the battle to come. While they were at the World Lion Turtle, he fused an energy with him, and it helped awaken a new power. With some final details, he had completed his new Keyblade.
Ultima Weapon MK3
Sora: it's finished.
Donald: that looks stronger than your other ones.
Sora: feels like it, too. (Dismisses blade)
Arcturus: (finishing armor) I'd hope so since we're about to face death.
Sora: we got this.
Goofy: of course we do.
Naminé: we'll have each other's backs.
Clara: well everyone, we've arrived.
Yang: oh boy.
Everyone soon gathered in the telepad that would transport them to the world below. Each person was all prepared for anything that would happen. Before going, Sora gives one more speech.
Sora: twelve years ago, Xehanort started us all on this path. We've lost friends, family, and even ourselves to that madman and all his followers. Even though we might never see those loved ones again, they'll always be with us in our hearts. And today, we take the fight to them. No matter what happens, if we win or loose, it all comes to an end today. We finish this, together. Whatever it takes.
Everyone: whatever it takes.
They all then held their fists out and joined together. After a short moment, they break, and teleported down. The end was upon them.
Author's note: it now begins!
I've been looking forward to reaching this point. I'm still debating how it'll end, but I will say it'll follow accordingly to the game ending. And before I get any comments telling me otherwise, this is necessary for the third main book. And don't worry, all of Team Light gets a happy ending.
The Death lunch seen is one of my favorite moments in Supernatural. What makes this incarnation of him so cool, is that he wasn't really a villain or a good guy, but rather a being just doing his job to persevere the natural order, and who refuses to serve anyone. I wanted to add that here and give another character that is pretty much on his own side.
Ace originally came from Arc. At first, I just had him as a wolf with light and dark powers. But, I wanted to expand on that, and give more of a reason why he would hang with Arc. And, after hearing about how V's familiars were created, I felt it would be similar in Arc's case. Especially when he saw everything his past lives went through, both good and bad.
I don't know how many chapters are left, but my plan is to divide up the final battle into segments, then an epilogue, and maybe a trailer on the general idea for the third book.
Next chapter: it's time to go to war.