Fan Fiction ❯ Kingdom Hearts: The Third Epic ❯ A Threat Like No Other ( Chapter 3 )

A Threat Like No Other

 

Sora gazed on at Cuchulain who lay in a deep sleep on a small bed in the corner. Cuchulain, who had proven to be a rather tough opponent seemed so innocent when he slept.

“Boy,” said Sora. “This guy really knows how to sleep.”

“Will you leave him alone, Sora.” Riku ordered. “We have something to discuss right now.”

“Alright!” Sora put on a new shirt, given by Sneer, and scurried over to where the others awaited him.

“OK! We're all assembled.” said Mickey. “Now what?”

`I'll get straight to the point.” said Sneer. “The Dark Empire is beginning an invasion against all parallel realms. Now all dimensional realms are in danger of being overrun by their forces.”

“The Dark Empire?” asked Donald.

“Yes. It is a massive organization whose only purpose is to obtain the ideal of controlling the universe and all dimensional realms as one big super power. However, many people within the universe refuse to abide by the iron fist policies of the Empire. Therefore, the Imperial forces are taking worlds by force.”-

“They're planning to do the same as the heartless then.” Yuffie explained.

“That's not it, Yuffie. The Heartless were bent on destroying all worlds entirely and return them to darkness. The Dark Empire has a far worse fate in mind. They plan on conquering all worlds and subduing the inhabitants into becoming loyal members of the Empire. However, while the top lords of the Empire gain more wealth and power, those under their whim will be oppressed and subjugated to serve only them.”-

“How did the Dark Empire come to be?” asked Sora.

“The Dark Empire had originated from the universal realm where Goten and I come from.” Sneer further explained. “We had confronted the forces of the Empire more times than I can remember. The Empire was established when three tyrannical powers were converged into one super power. Lords run the Empire itself. And among those lords, there are three top overlords, known as the Three Excellencies. Each one of the Three Excellencies is responsible for overlooking each of the three original tyrannical powers.”

“Who are they?” asked Riku.

“First, there is Lord Drako Arakis. He is in charge of the branch known as the Arakis Foundation, which acts as the financial backbone of the Empire. He keeps the wealth of the Empire in check by exploiting the labors and valuable minerals and materials of different worlds. Arakis is also leader of the infamous Imperial Legion, which consists of the top elite fighters in the universe. So far, no force has been able to confront the Imperial Legion and emerge in tact, let alone victorious. Arakis was the founder of the Immortals, which act as personal bodyguards of the top overlord of the Three Excellencies. Finally, he is also the leader of the infamous Death Lords. A squadron of five of the Empire's top fighters whose main assignments involve the subduing of nations, the assassination of leaders posing a possible threat, but most importantly, they're assigned for intimidation. And believe me, these particular five live up to their reputations as being amongst the most powerful lords in the Empire.”

 

“And the other two?” asked Mickey. “Besides Lord Arakis, what are the other two responsible for?”

“I was just getting to that, your Majesty.” Sneer continued. “The next of the Three Excellencies is Lord Dextera Viro. He is the one who overlooks the former Midnight Organization, which is responsible for assembling the manpower for the Empire's military forces. Out of the three, Viro is the one who does most of the strategic planning. He excels in open military combat. Terrestrial, amphibious, aerial, extra-terrestrial, you name it. It is because of his careful planning of battle and deployment of troops that the Imperial forces always seem invulnerable, or a step ahead.”

“What about the final member of the Three Excellencies?” asked Mickey.

“The final member of the Three Excellencies is the top overlord of the three.” Sneer said. “The supreme overseer of the empire itself, Lord Vischerz Von Cavendish. He overlooks the former Red Ribbon Organization who's responsible for all technological achievements within the empire. And out of the three, he is the deadliest amongst them. The reason why is because of his extraordinary power. He is perhaps the only lord throughout the Empire who has the ability to obliterate a large galaxy from existence just by accumulating the energy resonating from his eyes.” The others stood shocked at what they heard.

“What?!” said Riku. “Are you saying that this guy can destroy an entire galaxy just by looking at it?”

“Exactly! That's how precise Cavendish is when it comes to manipulating energy. With his level of skill, he can not only manipulate energy, but he can also concentrate it to have ten to a hundred times the destructive power expected. He excels in everything, from planning strategy to superior fighting abilities. He has the ability to absorb energy as well as souls. As far as I know, he has also been able to control the very essence to which the universe was created. The power of the Mandate.”-

“Mandate?” asked Sora. “What's that?”

“The Mandate is the very essence of life and death in the universe. It is what determines fate, destiny, karma, and gess. It is the source of life and death, destruction and rebirth, good and evil. Basically, it is the essence where everything we know and think originated.”

“Then what's the story behind this Mandate and how was it possible for someone like Lord Cavendish to control it?-

 

“When the universe was first created, long before there were ever separate dimensional realms, there was the Great Deity who created the essence of everything that would be. This was dubbed the Mandate. It is the very energy which is purest of all. The Great Deity wanted ten other deities to look over it. But something went wrong as time progressed and the guardians began to fight over this great sphere of energy. Within time, because of their impure ways, the Mandate blackened and dimmed and cracks began to develop within it. Then one day, as the story goes, the Mandate exploded into billions of little shards and spread throughout the great emptiness that is the universe. With each shard, a dimensional realm was created. Seeing their faults, the ten guardians went to find these scattered shards. Each found 50 million of the best warriors to serve under them and retrieve the shards. But with retrieving the shards, there came a price. Only those with the status of a Deity could touch and wield the shards. Many a gallant warrior who touched this pure energy was obliterated. Within a period of a million years, known as the Era of Great Chaos, where evil and good, living and dead lived amongst each other, all shards were eventually returned to their place of origin. All except one, which remained elusive until now. A single shard had escaped the eyes of the deity guardians and fell into the hands of the most evil individual ever known in the universe. Cavendish's heart was pure alright, pure evil. And because it was pure evil, he was able to wield the Mandate shard. And because of his extraordinary strength, he was the only who was able to touch it, let alone hold it in his bare hand.”

“But how did a guy like that gain so much strength to begin with?” asked Leon. “It would take years for someone to gain enough power to destroy a galaxy just by looking at it. I mean how did he do it?”

“The reason is it did take years for Cavendish to gain immeasurable strength.” said Sneer. “Fourteen Thousand years to be precise.”

“Fourteen Thousand?!” said Sora, shocked.

“Exactly. And in that period of time, he has gained enough skill to be almost totally invincible, even without the Mandate. Of course, Cavendish is also a chivalrous individual and denies himself use of the Mandate, putting all his faith in his own strength. That works well for us because if he were to use the Mandate, he could bend history entirely in his favor. Anyone who manages to wield the power of the Mandate... is invincible.”-

It was at that moment that Goten picked up a high-energy signal. He looked outside, but there was no one about. However, his sudden change in subject caught Sneer's attention.

“What is it, Goten?” asked Sneer.

“Someone is out there.” replied Goten. “Someone with incredible strength. The energy is coming from the second district.”

“Turn off the lights.” said Leon. The lights were dimmed and the party snuck out of the house one by one and entered through the gates of the second district. They worked their way onto the second floor of the quiet shop area.

“There are lights coming from the second district.” said Riku. The party gathered to look out a darkened window. There, in the plaza of the second district, there stood a regiment of Imperial soldiers.

“I knew it.” said Goten. “Imperials.”

“Those are soldiers of the Dark Empire?” asked Sora.

“That's them.” replied Sneer. “That's an awfully large force. At least one full regiment. Cavendish must be getting desperate to find us. He's sending out one of his best regiments to look for us.”

“How many are there?”-

“At least a thousand.”-

“A thousand. How are we gonna take on a thousand?”-

“We don't. Against those odds, we are outmatched. We'll just have to withdraw for now.”-

“Let's be on our way then.” said Yuffie. “Not even we can take on that many at one time.” The party began to slowly back away from the window.

“Wait.” said Lu Xun. “There's someone exiting out of the hotel. They must be the ones in charge.” The party went to observe and sure enough, a solitary warrior made himself present before the troops.

“Oh my God.” said Goten. “It's General Kai. Leader of the Cavendish Shinobis.”

“Who's General Kai?” asked Sora.

“He's a mystic who had been raised within the Empire and excels in the Seven Elemental Arts.”-

 

“Hey, someone else coming out from the hotel.” said Yuffie. The party looked to see a man dressed in a dark grey overcoat with a well-dressed shako placed upon his head.

 

“That's General Ameba, second overseer of the Midnight Organization.” said Sneer. “The Empire must be acting in desperation alright. Are we of that great a significance to them?”

“What's he do?” asked Riku.

“He's a fanatical thinker. The one responsible for overseeing the genocide of many races throughout the universe. He's known for his reckless chaos.”-

The party looked to see as two other individuals came out the hotel. As these two final figures emerged from within, Sneer, Lu Xun, and Goten were stricken with fear.

“Oh my God!” said Lu Xun, looking upon a large warrior covered in a thick suit of armor. “It... it... it's Lu Bu!!”

“Lu Bu?!” asked Mickey.

“Which one is he?!” added Yuffie.

“The tall one.” replied Sneer.

“The guy with those big feelers on his head?” Sora snickered. “He looks funny.”

“I wouldn't laugh if I were you. Lu Bu may look ridiculous with those giant feelers on his head when you first see him. But he's earned a reputation for being a ferocious warrior. And those goofy looking feelers have earned a sense of fear. After you engage in battle with him, your aspect of his appearance will change dramatically.”-

“How did a man like Lu Bu end up with the Empire?” asked Lu Xun.

“Perhaps he had been persuaded by Arakis down there.”-

“Arakis. So he must be the guy all dressed in that black military uniform.” said Riku.

“That is correct.” Sneer continued. “And he is the most dangerous out of the four. Remember, he is one of the Three Excellencies and his power is known for causing utter devastation throughout the universe.”

“Shh! I hear them talking.” said Yuffie.

 

 

Within the plaza of the second district, three soldiers appeared, kneeling before the four. They were men dressed in black, their faces half covered by a black mask.

“Scouts have reported in.” said General Kai.

“What news do you have for us.” said Arakis. “Have you come to tell me of their whereabouts?”

“Yes, your Excellency.” replied the 1st spy. “We have located the meeting place of our targets. They have recently assembled in a small house in the third district.”

“Tell me, who is amongst them?”-

“There are eleven altogether. First, there is King Mickey and his two subordinates. Goofy, captain of the Royal Knights, and Donald, the chief sorcerer and prime minister of Mickey's kingdom. Secondly, there are also the two key bearers, Sora and Riku. Then, there are Squall Leonhart and the Great Ninja Yuffie who have also come to aid the resistance. As well, there is a young warrior named Lu Xun, who addressed himself as the prime minister of Wu, and another young warrior named Cuchulain, who's also known as the Hound of Ulster.”-

“So, it seems they managed to ensnare the legendary Hound of Ulster.” chuckled Arakis. “Sneer must be desperate to gain as many strong allies as possible.”

“Is there anyone else amongst them?” asked General Ameba.

“I am also afraid to report that W.T. Sneer and Son Goten are present as well.” said the spy. There was a sudden look of surprise which streaked on the face of Lord Arakis.

 

“So, Sneer has decided to deal with this little matter himself, eh?” said Arakis. “Well, I won't stand for it. We've lost to him before in the past and because we continuously underestimated him, our forces have suffered dearly. Well, not this time.” He turned to General Kai. “General Kai. You will personally lead our troops and track down these rebels!”

“As you wish, my lord.” replied General Kai in a deep sinister voice. “I live only to serve the empire.”

“I don't care if you kill them all, or not, but there are a few within the party that I want eliminated permanently.” Arakis categorized the targets which were to be eliminated first. “For your first target, I want you to eliminate Son Goten!”

“But Goten isn't much of a threat my lord! I don't think there is any need to send in the men to help seek and destroy a meager Saiyan whelp! I'll take care of it myself!”-

“I won't take any chances, Kai! We said that Goten was insignificant to us before! But while we were launching our campaign on New Namek, we sent three regiments against Goten and his friend, Trunks! We had them outnumbered fifteen hundred to one, but still they managed to eradicate our troops! It's been several months since that battle and I will not allow them to be given the chance to gain a strong foothold against us again!”-

“As you command.”-

“Do you understand, Kai?! With Goten gone, that means that Sneer and the rest of the party would be vulnerable to our attack. Next, take out Sneer himself. With him dead, the Alliance will fall apart and there will be no central power to keep them united. Next, kill King Mickey so that his own kingdom will fall into despair and no longer be a threat to us. Finally, you must kill Riku and Sora. As long as the key bearers are alive, there is a slight chance for them to be able to interfere with our planning. I intend to see that something like that will never happen so long as I am in command!”-

“What about the others?” asked General Ameba. “Lu Xun, Cuchulain, Leonhart and Yuffie? Are we just to drop concerns for them?!”

“They are nothing to fear. Lu Xun hasn't fully perfected his fighting skills and Cuchulain, due to his gess, he can't be awoken by anyone except himself. Not much to fear from someone who can't even control the full power of the rage without becoming evil himself. As for Leonhart and Yuffie, I know that they won't pose any threat.”-

“Then I shall lead our forces to find them. I will terrorize the inhabitants of this town and force them to tell us the whereabouts of these rebels.” said Kai.

“Terrorize them! Terrorize them well!” chuckled Arakis. “Once you have taken care of this little issue, you and the rest may join us back in Vandor. Until then, we take our leave.” Then he, Lu Bu, and General Ameba began to hover into the air. “If I had my way, I would prefer you over your teacher any day. At least you're not the type who would turn his sword against his colors.”

“I live only to obey the Three Excellencies! And no love for a teacher shall stand in the way of that.” replied Kai.

“Very good.”-

At that moment, the three commanders flew into the night sky and out of sight, leaving General Kai and one thousand well trained swordsmen to fulfill the task. General Kai turned to his men.

 

“I want the units to spread into three branches. Three companies will search the third district, another three companies will search the first district, and I want the remaining four companies to remain here and search the second district.” he ordered. “I don't care how you look for them. Terrorize the people if necessary, do anything that will accomplish our mission.”

“Sir!” the regiment shouted in unison. They then split into three separate forces and began their search for the rebels.

 

Meanwhile, Sneer and the others could only watch helplessly as the Imperial troops were deployed to find them out.

“We have to do something.” said Goten. “If we don't act now, innocent people will get involved and who knows what those Imperials will do to them.”

“That's what I plan on doing.” Sneer replied. He turned to the others. “Here's our battle plan. King Mickey, Donald, and Goofy will fend of the Imperial troops who attack the first district. Leon, Yuffie, and Lu Xun will fight the forces in the third district. I will return to the house and watch after Cuchulain. And Goten, Riku, and Sora will attack the Imperial forces here in the second district.” He gazed at the determined faces of each fighter. “Do you understand your assignments?”

“Yes!” they cried in unison.

“Then let's go!” With that, the small group split into three and went to their own destinations.

 

 

As the parties split up, it wasn't long before the Imperial forces had spotted them. Ten Imperial troops were walking towards the doors leading to the third district when they saw the party split.

“There they are!!” shouted one soldier. Immediately, the other soldiers rallied to the cry.

“That didn't take too long to find us.” said Goten. He turned to the Sneer. “We'll take it from here. You guys get to the third district and fend off the Imperials there.”

“Right!” replied Sneer. He and the defenders of the third district entered through the doors while Goten, Riku, and Sora drew their blades, ready to fight.

“Alright! Let's go for it!” said Goten.

“Yeah!!” cried Riku and Sora in unison. The three cried out as they charged towards their foe. The Imperials drew their blades and attacked as well. However, as the two sides collided, Goten swooped over their heads and slashed about wildly, cutting down seven of the ten attackers. Riku thrust his sword slashing at the throats of two others, while Sora lunged forward, piercing his attacker against a wall. Blood spurted from the wound and sprayed into Sora's face. The Imperial lay dead at his feet. Sora looked at his blade which was covered in blood.

“I never would have thought that I'd spill blood like this.” he thought. “How could I have just taken life like that.” But Riku put his hand on his friend's shoulder.

“It's alright.” said Riku. “We had no choice.”

“These are clones.” Goten explained, pulling off five helmets from the dead soldiers. “They were all copied from one entity. They have no souls, or free will of their own. They only know how to kill. They have no life of their own.”

“I guess you're right.” said Sora. But only a moment after, they heard feet running in their direction. Just then, from the plaza, there emerged fifty more Imperial troops. Each drew his sword to fight the three warriors.

 

“Kill them!!” shouted one soldier. Ten attacked the three, with their blades stretched out before them.

“There's no reason to hold back here.” said Goten. “Let's fight them off!”

With that, the three charged into the fray of the battle. Instantly, the ten Imperials were struck down and the others found themselves confronted by these three ferocious youths. They charged into the thick of the Imperial line and slashed about at their enemies. Sometimes, the imperials would have them surrounded and ten soldiers would attack each individual warrior at the same time, slashing with their words.

Sora thrust and jabbed amongst the ranks and easily dispensed with fifteen soldiers. He slashed about at one opponent and kicked him aside.

“Is that all you have?!” he cried, punching his attacker out. “Come on!”

Just then, an Imperial trooper attacked from behind, attempting to slash him in the back, but Riku jumper in and slew the soldier.

“Damn it, Sora!” Riku scolded. “You're too far out! When will you ever learn?!”

“Sorry!” replied Sora.

“Well, it's not as if anyone could hold you back from a fight. I should know. I'm the same way.”-

“Then, let's keep at it. Come on!” The two attacked the Imperials who now surrounded them. “Let's show these guys just how skilled we are at using swords!”-

“We'll send them packing, back to where they came from!”-

“We are the only targets they should be focusing on!” shouted Goten. “We must protect the inhabitants of this town! Casualties should only number down to just ourselves!”

“I understand.” Sora replied. “Then if we must die, we'll die fighting. And under these circumstances, we're gonna have to.” The three soon found themselves surrounded by hundreds of Imperial troops who now held their blades against them. They formed a solid wall of swords around the three warriors.

“How do you propose we get out of this one?” asked Riku.

“There are certainly a lot of them.” Sora agreed. “I think we're gonna die.”

“Shut up, Sora.”-

“This is merely child's play for someone like me though.” chuckled Goten. He suddenly began to power up, crossing his arms in front of him. There was a sudden wind resonating around him. “Riku, Sora? If I were you, I'd lay flat on my belly and take cover!”

“Oh boy!” said Riku. “Sora! Duck and cover!” The two boys dropped to the ground as Goten began to concentrate it from within.

All of a sudden with an ear-piercing cry, Goten released a powerful sonic boom of energy which blew away every soldier that surrounded him. Within a period of seconds, every soldier had been slain and their bodies now scattered throughout the second district. Goten put down his arms and cracked his knuckles together. Riku and Sora stood up and looked at their comrade in awe.

“What was that?” asked Sora.

“More over, how did you do that?” added Riku.

“That was a sonic boom which I created when I concentrated my energy at a single point.” Goten explained. “When you learn how to manipulate your energy that way, you'd be able to perform powerful attacks like that. Of course, being of Saiyan descent, it comes naturally to me.”

“Do you think I could learn something like that?” asked Sora.

“Yes, you can. If you know the basic fundamentals, you can accomplish anything with chi.”-

 

“Chi?” asked Riku. “What's that?”

“The inner energy that accumulates from your body. You might say it's the very source of spiritual strength. And spiritual strength is the greatest of all. It determines your will to continue with whatever you wish to accomplish, no matter how big the challenge.”

All of a sudden, there was clapping coming from over the gizmo shop. The three looked to see a dark figure sitting on the edge of the roof. It was none other than General Kai himself.

“Brilliantly stated, my friend.” he chuckled. “Brilliantly stated. I see that you have managed to dispose with all four hundred swordsmen in this district. I commend you.” Kai hovered down to the plaza. “However, once again you have encountered yet another dilemma. Instead of four hundred weak soldiers, you confront the most powerful of the seven Dragon Ninjas. I, General Kai of the Cavendish Shinobis!”

“You wish to meet the same fate as your men?” said Goten. “If that is what you want, then I will gladly see it granted! We will not allow you to harass these people any further! You wanted us, so here we are!” The three drew their blades.

“You talk too much for your own good. First of all, you came to me. Therefore, the fate of the Traverse Town populous is irrelevant to me. And harassing them would be the last thing on my mind. And finally, I could care less about Riku and Sora, if they were to live, or die, either now or later. The only concern I have is you, Son Goten. You are the only real threat out of the three. Master Arakis has given me strict orders to take you out first. And to abide by His Excellency's wishes I will do.” Kai pulled out what looked like an iron tusk, with the shaft shaped in the form of an octagon. He then took his stance with the club slightly lowered. It was this particular stance that struck Goten with a sense of Deja Vous.

“That stance.” he thought to himself. “I've seen it before. It's a defensive stance used so that one can fight multiple opponents at the same time. Therefore, he will expect us to attack first.”

“Let us begin!” shouted Kai.

“Then, let's have at it then!” cried Sora, as he was the first to attack.

“No! Sora come back!” shouted Goten. “That's exactly what he wants!” But it was too late, Sora attempted to strike with a slash attack, but Kai only dodged forcing Sora to pass by him. He swung around and cracked his club only Sora's shoulder. Sora fell to the ground in agony.

“Sora!” cried Riku. “Damn you! You'll pay for that!” He charged at Kai.

“Riku, wait!” said Goten. But Riku had already attempted to slash at Kai. The general ducked again as he did with Sora. He threw his club around from behind him and cracked Riku on the shoulder. Riku fell to the ground, the blow had fractured his left shoulder. Kai stood to face Goten again.

“Well, that's two down and one to go.” he chuckled. “I guess your friends were too confident.”

“You won't get away with that!” shouted Goten.

“I already have!”-

Goten powered up and fired an energy beam at Kai, the general only deflected it away. He shook his hand about and formed a fist again.

 

“Most impressive.” chuckled Kai. “I never would have thought that you could shake my hand up like that.” Kai himself began to power up. “Let me show you a few tricks of my own. And you will soon realize why they call me the Master of the Seven Elemental Arts!” Kai thrust his iron club into the ground.

“WAN RAI DINN!!!!” Through the ground came a powerful electrical surge which struck Goten with a million volts. Goten was thrown back, hitting and breaking the mural of the plaza fountain. He slowly rose up to see General Kai coming towards him.

“What do you think?” asked Kai. “Impressive wouldn't you say?”

“I've seen better.” replied Goten. Kai filled with a slight rage.

“Such insolence! I will teach you some respect and you will respect me properly!”-

“But I am showing you proper respect, Kai!” Goten powered into his Super Saiyan form. “NONE!!!”

Goten lunged forth with his sword drawn. But Kai thrust his hand in front of him and deployed another attack.

“WAN RAI SHEN!!!” This time a ball of ice came at Goten. Goten was struck again and was now trapped in a suit of ice.

“You are too reckless, Goten.” chuckled Kai. “You thought that I'd be an easy opponent? Well, now you'll think different!” Kai raised his weapon in the air, ready to strike a blow to the head.

Suddenly, there was a sudden burst of energy coming from behind him. Kai turned to see Sora lunging at him with his sword. Kai only dodged the thrust and slammed his club onto Sora's blade. The moment steel and iron collided, Sora's sword was shattered into to pieces. He fell to the ground. As he tried to stand, Kai threw his foot on his face and pressed him down into the cement.

“I thought you would have learned by now, boy!” said Kai. “You stand no chance against a warrior of my caliber. Why bother trying to make a difference when you know all your efforts are in vain?”

“I... won't let..you win.” Sora uttered. Blood dripped down his face from a cut made by the impact of Kai's boot upon his face.

“How dare you be so arrogant! I'll show you!” Kai dug his foot into Sora's face and the young warrior cried out in pain.

“Leave him alone!” shouted Goten.

“Silence!” chuckled Kai. “You are in no position to tell me what to do!”

“He may not be, but I am!” shouted a voice. Kai looked to see Riku coming at him at an extraordinary speed. Riku leaped up and made a down slash attack upon Kai, but the general only threw out his baton in front of him and blocked the impact. He then thrust forth his fist and slammed his knuckles into Riku's gut. Riku fell to the ground in agony. He tried to stand, but Kai, taking his attention off of both Sora and Goten, grabbed him by the throat and threw smashed his head against the pavement. Blood seeped from the wound at the back of Riku's head. Kai hovered over the youth, strangling him by the throat. Riku grasped at Kai's arm, attempting to free himself, but Kai had a firm grip on him.

“I guess you'll be the first to go after all!” said Kai. “I'll strangle the life out of you!” Riku gagged as Kai's grip tightened around his throat. He could feel himself getting heavier and slowly lost consciousness. Kai then picked the young warrior up and held him in the air by the throat, with Riku's feet kicking about. “For the attempt on my life, I will see you dead!”

“Riku...” Sora uttered. “Riku...no.”

“Sora!” cried Riku. “Get...out of here.”

 

“No! I won't leave you!” Sora picked up Riku's sword and stood ready to fight Kai. The general turned about to face him, Riku still dangling from his hand.

“Not enough pain, eh?” said General Kai, angrily. “Well, don't worry! I'll make sure to give you more of it since you seem such a glutton for torture!”

“I won't let you hurt my friend!” shouted Sora.

“And what do you plan to do about it?!” Kai tightened his grip around Riku's throat and Riku cried out, gagging and choking in the hands of the ninja. Sora grew angry and gripped his sword even tighter.

“Stop it! Let Riku go!!”-

“No, I won't be doing that.” he tightened his grip even more. Eventually, Riku stopped kicking and hung lifeless in Kai's hold.

“I SAID STOP IT!!! LEAVE RIKU ALONE, YOU BASTARD!!!!” Sora attacked with all he had, but General Kai threw Riku's lifeless body at Sora. Sora was struck and the two fell to the ground unconscious.

“Now that those two nuisances are out of the way, I can finish with what I was doing.” said Kai. But as he turned towards Goten, he saw that Goten was powering up even more. By now, because of what Kai had done to Riku and Sora, Goten now filled with a great and terrible rage.

“I will never forgive you for what you've done!!” shouted Goten. At that moment, an incredible burst of energy broke Goten's icy prison. Goten lunged forth and slugged Kai in the gut. The general fell back, but the Z fighter again attacked, punching him in the face multiple times. He kicked Kai in the air, forcing the Imperial to fly into the sky. Goten lunged again for the final blow, but Kai regained his stamina and counterattacked, kicking Goten in the face. The youth arched back, but was knocked to the ground a second time. Goten lie on the ground, blood fell down the sides of his mouth and on a small cut on his forehead.

“You will pay!!” said General Kai. He thrust down two icicles that pierced through both of Goten's shoulders, locking him to the ground. He raved in agony as the blood spilled from the holes in his arms. Kai landed upon Goten's chest, breaking his rib cage. Goten cried out in pain as blood spilled from his mouth even more. Kai once again picked up his iron baton and held it over his head. “This time, Goten, I will beat your head to a pulp until no one can recognize your face! For this offense against me, I will see you dead!!”

Kai swung his club down attempting to strike the young Saiyan, but from out of nowhere another figure attacked, cutting the baton in half. Kai looked to see his severed weapon. He turned to see this new face. There stood a warrior dressed in a black Imperial uniform. His sword gleamed in the night air. A warrior as young, fair, and identical to Goten.

“It's you.” said General Kai, surprised. “Lord Lucien Exmortus Thundro!”

“So we meet again, Kai.” said Thundro. “Still as ruthless and reckless as ever.”

“Why do you stand against the Empire?! Are you not loyal to Lord Cavendish?!”-

“I pledge my loyalty to the Empire!! But now because of the corruption of the old code, because of Master Cavendish's continuous thirst for conquest, because of my lost past which he had hidden from me. And because Lord Cavendish no longer has high regards for honor towards his enemy, I have realized that I have been fighting on the wrong side!”-

“You dare stand against the Empire. Therefore, you are my enemy. Despite the fact that I am also your former pupil!”-

 

“I have found a new pupil who knows what's right and what's wrong! And I will not allow you to take his life!” Thundro pointed his sword at the shinobi. “I suggest that you withdraw. You are outmatched here.”-

Kai sneered and lowered his severed weapon. He flew off into the darkness.

“This isn't over yet, Thundro! Your insurrection will not go unpunished! I give you my word!!” With that, Kai vanished into the darkness of the night sky.

Meanwhile, Goten had managed free himself from the icicles lodged in his shoulders and picked himself up, using his sword as a crutch. Blood rushed from his mouth as he slowly stood. He gazed into the face that was all too familiar to him.

“So...you found me...after all....Master.” Goten uttered. Thundro looked at him, fire burning hot in his eyes. He walked up to Goten and slapped him in the face. Goten, bewildered at what had happened just then, gazed at his teacher humbly.

“I thought I taught you better, Goten!” said Thundro, angrily. “There is always a counterattack to different fighting positions! And despite what I have done, you still don't know how to deploy the knowledge you have gained, correctly.”

“I'm sorry.” Thundro sheathed his sword and placed his hand on Goten's shoulder. Goten began to resonate and within seconds, he had been fully healed and his clothing had been restored to their original state.

“It's a good thing that I got here in time. Otherwise, you would have met a sorry end at the hands of my former apprentice!”-

“But why side with me?” asked Goten. “Kai was your pupil too, but you also pledged loyalty to the empire. Why fight for my sake?”

“Because, no matter how stupid and pathetic you are, there is something about you that I find fascinating. I know that there is still a hidden potential within you and I mean to unlock it. I have not yet had an apprentice who's hidden potentials I haven't unlocked.”-

“Thanks.” It was then that Goten remembered about Sora and Riku. “Oh, I forgot about Riku and Sora!” He rushed to their sides. Sora had managed to sit up and was holding Riku, who was still unconscious, in his arms.

“Riku! Riku!” Sora cried, his eyes moist with tears. “Speak to me! Please speak to me!” But no matter what he did, Riku did not move. Goten knelt by him and checked for a pulse. There was still a beat in his veins.

“Don't worry, Sora. Riku's still alive.”-

“Let me handle this!” said Thundro. He placed his hand over the two and healed their wounds. Riku slowly opened his eyes and looked about.

“Sora?” he muttered. He slowly sat up and shook his head, banishing his grogginess. “What happened? Did we win?”

“We certainly did.” said Goten. “Thanks to Master Thundro.” But Thundro had already stood up and was standing in the middle of the plaza.

“Thank you.” said Sora.

“I didn't heal you because I have sympathy for you.” said Thundro. “I healed you because I know you have hidden potential within you and I will not allow you to die without first seeing the full extent of your powers!”

“Our powers?” asked Riku. Thundro turned and the two key bearers soon realized that he was an Imperial as well.

“You're an Imperial!” said Sora. Riku and he quickly stood and made ready to fight, but both of their swords had been damaged. Sora's had been severed in half and Riku's was frayed, making his sword not suited to cut even peanut butter.

 

“Yes, I am an Imperial. And my loyalty remains with the empire, but I do not approve of the path that she is taking now. I was hoping for the chaos to end and it still continues. I had a past which I was unaware of and they hid it from me all these years. That's why I have my own reason to hate those who run the Empire. But despite that, I will not defect to the Alliance, for they have been my enemy for the passed ten millennia. I now only fight to find my own truth. And hopefully, I can get an answer.” Thundro approached the two boys, but they still held their damaged blades in ready. “Now you don't really intend to fight me with those mangled blades do you?”

“If we must, we will.” said Riku.

“Even if you did fight me, your skills would be no match for me! Besides, if I wanted you dead, I would have killed you already!” Thundro turned to Goten and turned away without saying a word.

“Where are you going?” asked Goten.

“I have my own plans to sort out!” said Thundro. “As for the two key bearers, meet me at the main gates of Traverse Town.” With that, Thundro flew off into the starry night, leaving no trace of energy to be detected.

“I don't get it.” said Sora. “That guy's a lord of the Dark Empire, but he doesn't fight for them anymore. And yet he doesn't want to side with us?”

“What's his motivation?” asked Riku. “You've known him longer, Goten. What is his motivation?”

“Not much is known about Thundro.” Goten explained. “Even I don't know much about him. I think deep in his heart, Thundro is trying to find the answer for himself. For the passed ten thousand years he has fought and killed for the glory of the Dark Empire, but now he begins to question the order. I think it's best for him to take that course so that he can find the truth for himself.”

 

At that moment, Lu Xun ran through the doors from the first district. He ran up to the three warriors and looked around as he approached them, gazing upon the four hundred slain Imperials.

“I see you three managed to hold your own.” he said. “Did you have much trouble?”

“More or less, Lu Xun.” replied Goten. “They put up one hell of a fight.”

“I just came to say that districts one and three have been secured without any casualties. But Sneer wants us assembled back at the house in district three. He has important assignments for us.”-

“Right.”-

The four followed Lu Xun back to the house where the others were waiting. As they entered the door, the were welcomed warmly.

“Are you guys alright?” asked Yuffie.

“We're fine for now.” replied Riku. “But I don't think the Dark Empire will give us a moments rest if they mean to eliminate us.”

“That's why I have conjured up a strategy for us.” said Sneer. “This is what I plan on doing. We will first use Traverse Town as our regional outpost, where we will conduct our meetings. Thus, I need several of you to stay and watch over the place while the rest of us are gone. Leon, Yuffie, and Cuchulain will stay here and watch over the town in our absence. I know you're good enough for the job and I know you won't fail me.”

 

“We understand.” said Leon. Sneer continued with his strategy.

“I am needed back at Oceansburg to conduct the deployment of military engagements against the empire and Lu Xun and Goten will be coming with me. Therefore, I need Riku, Sora, Mickey, Donald, and Goofy to patrol all the worlds and see if you can hold off the Dark Empire's advance.”

“We understand.” said Mickey.

“Wait a minute here!” Riku interrupted. “I didn't think that we'd get dragged into this anymore than we had to! The only reason why Sora and I decided to help you is because we have to get Kairi back! She was kidnapped by the Dark Empire and we need to rescue her!”

“I understand that,” said Sneer, “but right now, preventing the empire's legions from expanding throughout the dimensional realms is our number one priority.”

“No! Finding Kairi is our number one priority!”-

“Riku, please.” said Sora, trying to calm him down.

“While we're standing here talking about what we should do, Kairi's probably being tortured, or even worse! I won't just remain idle and not do a thing to help her!” Riku reached for the door and was ready to twist the knob.

“Where are you going?” asked Sneer.

“What does it look like.” said Riku. “I'm going to get Kairi back!”

“And what do you plan on doing first?”-

“I'll think of something!”-

“And where would you start, eh? There are millions of separate worlds out there and you intend to search every one of them?”-

“If that's what if takes, yes!”-

“Riku! Calm down!” said Sora, rushing over to his friend. He placed his hands of Riku's shoulders and looked into his friends pale green eyes. “I want to find and rescue Kairi just as much as you do, Riku! But storming off in anger won't help! Now you know what we're dealing with here! You know how powerful these foes are! You saw what Kai did to us! He took us down without breaking a sweat! And if he's just a mere subordinate, can you imagine how powerful the others are?! We have to think this through!” Riku looked in to Sora's blue eyes and started to calm himself.

“Sora's right, Riku.” said Sneer. “If you go directly for Kairi, the Imperial forces would have already taken over several hundred other worlds. And then where would we be?! We would be put at a slight disadvantage!” Riku looked down to his feet in shame, not daring to look at anyone in the face. “Besides, if there is one person who knows about the location of Kairi, it would be Lord Arakis. Find Arakis and you will find Kairi.”

“Where do I find Arakis?” asked Riku.

“It's not going to be all that easy. Arakis moves around like a phantom. His whereabouts are unknown at times. The only ones who know his exact location are the seven members of the Cavendish Shinobis. Each one carries a piece of the information. You must find the seven members in order to receive all the pieces of the puzzle.”-

“How do you know this?” asked Sora.

“We've received word from an anonymous tip that Arakis plans to see how well you do when it comes to tracking down your friends.”-

“Is this some kind of sick game to him?” said Riku, angrily. “He breaks us apart only to see if we can find each other again?!”

 

“I believe in most ways, he wants to test not only your mental and physical stamina, but he also wants to see if you will take any means necessary to find your friend as well as your endurance to confront his forces for the sake of a companion.” Lu Xun hypothesized.

“What I think he is really trying to do is break you apart.” said Sneer. “Arakis knows of your passed adventures when you fought the Heartless and how you were separated by light and darkness. So, he may plan to split up your friendship.”

“Well, I won't give him the luxury of ever doing something like that.” said Riku.

“Nevertheless! It's best that you take no chances! Whatever choice you make, make sure that one of you is willing to give in to the others idea. That's the only way I know how you can stay together!” Sneer walked to the window and gazed into the starry night. “The Cavendish Shinobis each have a piece of the puzzle. Each piece you collect will get you closer to Kairi.”

“But how will we find them?” asked Sora. “They could be in any world right?”

“That's right.” Sneer continued. “You have no idea where to start do you? Well, luckily my anonymous source made sure not to leave out any vital detail. He has already given me the whereabouts of one of the Dragon Ninjas. He has been assigned to take over the dimensional realm which we have codenamed “Zi.” Reach that realm, restore the order, defeat the ninja in charge, and gain a new bit of information to help track down Arakis and Kairi. If you can manage to defeat all seven members of the Cavendish Shinobis, you not only would have gained all seven pieces of the puzzle, but you would have also stopped the expansion of the Imperial forces into other worlds.”

“But once we defeat that one, where do we find the others?”-

“Each shinobi has their own bit of information on the location of one of the other shinobis in order to maintain knowledge of their whereabouts.” Sneer put on his gloves and opened the door. “Well, enough has been said. We must depart now before the empire is given the opportunity to deploy their forces.”

“Understood.” said Leon. “Then you better be off. Yuffie, Cuchulain and I should be alright.”

Just then, the company heard a loud yawn from within the room. As they turned, they saw Cuchulain sitting up in bed, rubbing his eyes. He looked up as his allies.

“Hey, guys.” he uttered. “Did I miss anything?” The entire company was struck, dumbfounded.

“Leon, Yuffie! We have to go!” said Sneer. “I leave you to explain everything to Mr. Snoozer over there!”