Fan Fiction ❯ Kingdom Hearts: The Third Epic ❯ Fall of the Sanc Kingdom ( Chapter 7 )

Fall of the Sanc Kingdom

 

The year is After Colony 195. As the year had progressed to its present state, Operation Meteor, the attempt to take over the earth sphere, had in most ways failed. Though the Gundams had seen the fall of the former United Earth Sphere Alliance, their actions and mistakes made in the past allowed the opportunity for new military powers to rise. The Oz organization, once responsible for manufacturing military weapons within the former alliance, had now taken control of the earth sphere. Thanks in large measure to Oz's leader, Treize Khushrenada. Treize also acted on behalf of the Romefeller Foundation, an aristocratic organization who was responsible for the financial backbone of both Oz and the former alliance. However, the situation had changed once again. Treize had been dismissed of his position within Oz and Romefeller, and a new representative, Duke Dermail, took over as leader of the Romefeller Foundation. However, because many members of Oz paid their respects only to Treize, there was no true figure to help keep the organization united. Duke Dermail, hoping to create a new era for the Romefeller Foundation, sent mobile dolls, which were unmanned mobile suits, to earth as to help eliminate all areas of dispute within the earth sphere. And the greatest obstacle that lay before Romefeller's path was the Sanc Kingdom. Under the rule of Princess Relena Peacecraft, this independent country promoted total pacifism under its order. Because of this policy, many members of the former Oz, who were loyal to Treize, flocked to the borders of the Sanc Kingdom, hoping to seek refuge. Romefeller, finding this as a sign that that nation was freely harboring rebels, used it as an excuse to overthrow the regime. Thus, as the battle would commence that day, a new threat would come unexpectedly from out of nowhere. The likes of which neither earth, nor space had ever seen before.

Appearing off the coast of the Sanc Kingdom, Romefeller's military forces began their deployment. Carriers deployed their mobile dolls while the naval power sent in its special aquatic units, consisting mostly of Pisces and Cancers to bombard the coast with missiles. The Sanc Kingdom's imperial guard, under the command of Captain Lucrezia Noin, and the Maguanot Corp, lead by Quatre Reberba Winner, made ready on the front line to face the bulk of Romefeller's military strength.

“I only hope that Miss Relena will forgive those who try to protect the Sanc Kingdom.” Noin thought to herself. “Romefeller sees us as a threat. And they will do whatever necessary to eliminate the kingdom's influence.”

“We must fight on!” cried Quatre. “To protect this nation.”

“You heard Master Quatre!” added Commander Rasheed of the Maguanot. “We must fight on!”

The battle grew intense for the next few hours. However, despite their efforts, even the bravery of the Maguanot Corp. And the Sanc Kingdom Imperial Guard were no match for the overwhelming force of the Romefeller Foundation's military power.

“Damn!” said Quatre. “They just keep coming!”

“There are backup troops on the way!” said Noin. “Be on your guard!”

“It looks like we're fighting another losing battle then. As it should be.”-

“What about Heero?”-

“He's using the Epyon to fight Romefeller's mobile dolls that infiltrated into the interior of the Sanc Kingdom.”-

 

 

Meanwhile, within the Sanc Kingdom, Relena watched as her beloved nation was being destroyed little by little by the unrelenting forces of Romefeller.

“All this because of what we had done to help the members of the Treize Faction.” she thought.

“Quite a magnificent sight wouldn't you say, Miss Relena?” said a voice from behind. Relena turned to see Dorothy Catalonia standing in the doorway. “Isn't it magnificent to see how much those people are fighting out there for you and your ideals.”

“I thought I told you to evacuate with the rest of the students and staff?”-

“Oh, but I couldn't do that knowing that you were still here observing the battle first hand. Don't you find it inspirational that the Sanc Kingdom is doing everything in its power to protect your ideals. Even when it means taking up arms to protect those ideals. I believe that taking up arms to defend itself is quite undaunted wouldn't you say?”-

“I have no time for your war hobbies, Dorothy!” Relena gazed in disgust at her fellow student. “I don't believe that taking up arms will help obtain true peace.”

“But what you don't realize is that type of idealism is something that can never truly be achieved. Humans are like a fighting animal. Unless you are able to defend yourself with military power, you would easily fall to such fighting animals. Both you and I know that, Miss Relena.” Dorothy turned with a smirk on her face. “You can use this situation as an opportunity to request military aid from your allies. If you do that, then members of the Treize Faction and the former alliance will flock to your rescue.”-

“That is the type of action I'm not willing to take!”-

 

At the same time, in the depths of space, Zechs Merquise was making his way to Earth. Hoping to arrive in time and try to protect the Sanc Kingdom. However, because of the distance between Peacemillion and Earth, it would take until nightfall for him to arrive.

“I only hope that the Sanc Kingdom will last until I arrive.” he thought to himself. “I hope I'm not too late.”

But as he made his run towards the earth, he saw something speed passed him at an extraordinary rate of speed. It looked like a cruiser, but unlike any he'd ever seen before. It looked like a primitive fighter, but bulkier on the side. There was a bubble dome placed on top of it.

“That ship.” Zechs uttered to himself. “What is that?” He looked inside to cockpit while it sped by in a split second. Within the cockpit, he saw what looked like five individuals conducting activity within it. “I wonder why I wasn't able to pick up their signal until the moment I saw them.” He could only watch as the little ship made its way down to Earth.

 

Meanwhile, back on Earth, things weren't looking up for the efforts of the Sanc Kingdom defenders. Heavy casualties had been suffered, their resources dwindling, and still they had to confront an everlasting wave of mobile dolls.

“We won't last much longer.” said Rasheed.

“But we must keep fighting.” Quatre replied. “We have to uphold Miss Relena's ideals. For the sake of our future!”

“If we must fight to the last man,” Noin stated as she struck down another Virgo, “then we will do it knowing that we put all our heart and soul into protecting this nation.”

 

 

At the same time, within Romefeller's high military command overseeing the battle, the commanders were pleased with the results they were getting.

“Excellent!” said the admiral. “We've managed to break through the defenses of the Sanc Kingdom! Did they really think that they were a match for the bulk of Romefeller's military force?!” Just then, one of the soldiers over looking the battle from the bridge, came running to the admiral.

“Admiral! I think you better come take a look at this!” he cried.

“What is it?” asked the admiral.

“I don't know, Sir.”-

The admiral accompanied the soldier to the bridge. There beyond the horizon, just off the coast of the Sanc Kingdom, a strange object began to appear out of the water.

“What in the hell is that?” he said.

 

The object did not go unnoticed by both sides. Soldiers gave a temporary cease fire when they saw the object appear from underneath the ocean. It was in fact a large body of water that began to hover into the air. As it breeched out of the water, it took the form a perfect sphere. Many looked on in terror, seeing this massive sphere of water suddenly appear out of the sea. It hovered there for five minutes, waves glittering on its surface.

“W...what is that?” asked Quatre.

“I don't know.” replied Noin.

“I've never seen anything like it.” said Relena, watching from the observatory of the Sanc Kingdom University Institution.

“Is it Romefeller's new weapon?” thought Dorothy. “Why wasn't I ever informed of such a thing.”

Suddenly, from out of the large sphere, a series of energy beams came bellowing out in a barrage and struck down every mobile suit and mobile doll. Immediately, both sides realized that neither were safe from the watery sphere. It had come for the soul purpose of dispensing with all surrounding it.

“Shoot that thing down!” the Admiral ordered. Immediately, the mobile dolls began to attack the sphere. But as they approached, sharp watery projectiles bellowed out and hit their intended targets. The mobile dolls, with no way to defend themselves, fell like flies before the monstrous sphere.

Within seconds of the first wave's depletion, clouds began to hover ominously over Romefeller's fleet.

“What is this, Admiral?” asked one of the soldiers.

“A storm?” the Admiral replied, bewilderedly.

But as the rain fell, it was soon realized that it wasn't ordinary rain falling. The rain was traveling at such a high speed velocity, that they acted more like bullets. They struck the fleet and all mobile doll carriers. And all fell victim to the rain. The wind picked up and a maelstrom began to bellow, with high winds and freak thunder and lightning. The waves reached fifty feet high and crashed upon the vessels.

Noin and the others watched as this horrific sight took place. It was strange indeed that the storm was only taking its toll on Romefeller's forces. Along the coast of the Sanc Kingdom, the waters were still calm and the sun still shined.

 

“What kind of storm is that?” asked Noin. “That rain is falling so fast, it's actually shooting down the mobile suits!”

“There's no way pure water can just rip through a steel hull like that!” Quatre replied. “The only way it can cause that sort of damage is if it was traveling at high speed. And I know for a fact that rain doesn't naturally fall like that.”

In only a matter of minutes, the might fleet of Romefeller had been vanquished. The grandest ships had sunk to the bottom, with all souls still aboard. The storm suddenly disappeared and only the great aquatic sphere was left. Hovering before the demolished fleet and the Sanc Kingdom.

 

“I don't believe it.” said Relena. “The entire fleet destroyed by a storm?”

“I've...I've never known a storm to do that.” said Dorothy. “To completely destroy Romefeller's fleet and leave not one ship in tact?”

“Quite an impressive bit of work wouldn't you say?” chuckled a voice from behind. The two young ladies turned to see a shadowy figure standing in the doorway. He was a tall, dark man with long flowing hair. He was dressed in a dark blue cloak. As he stepped into the light, he took the hood of the cloak and covered his head. Only a few locks of his long hair flowed down.

“Who are you?” asked Relena.

“I am the one responsible for that aquatic chaos out there.” he said. “Isn't that a splendid sight? To see one like myself use such skill to vanquish an enemy.”

“I find nothing splendid about it! You have just taken the lives of many! Despite their hostilities against the Sanc Kingdom, there was no reason for you to wipe them out completely! Why would you do such a thing?!”-

“Why not?! The lives of humans mean nothing to me!”-

“How can you say that?!”-

“Quite easily!” He began to walk towards the two girls. “Humans need to be eliminated. They want everything done the way they want it. Conditioned so that everything benefits them and no one else. That is why a worthless species like you cannot be allowed to thrive.” He suddenly grabbed Relena by the throat and began to squeeze. The girl fell to her knees as she felt the grip tighten.

“Miss Relena!” cried Dorothy. But the man thrust forth his arm and slammed Dorothy again the wall with incredible force.

“I can easily end your life by tightening my grasp around your throat!” He chuckled. Relena began to lose consciousness. The man suddenly released her and Relena fell to the ground coughing harshly. “But I don't feel like killing you. There wouldn't be any fun in that. I intend to take out the leaders last because I like them to see how futile it is to stand against me. I will expand our borders to Earth and space of this realm. And there's nothing that you, nor anyone else can do about it!”

“What do you plan on doing?” asked Relena.

“I intend to take this world for the empire.”-

“The...Empire?”-

“The new power arising! Once I have taken over this world, the Empire will gain yet another dimensional realm to deprive resources of!” The man walked to the window and gazed at the sphere he created. “Do you know how powerful water is? Of course you do. You've seen it first hand. Certainly, a mere drop of water isn't enough to hurt you. But try accelerating its speed to 500 mph. Then you have a lethal projectile.”

 

“How is it possible for someone to manipulate water like that?” asked Relena, rubbing her throat.

“Quite easily, my dear.” The man snapped his fingers and from a paper cup on Relena's desk, the water began to hover in the air, still shaped like the cup. “When you have the skills needed, you can do anything you can put your mind to.”

He snapped his fingers again and the water projectile slammed into the wall at a very high speed, busting a hole through the wall.

“You might as well get used to the idea of meeting a sorry end!” he chuckled. “I will first use my great sphere to reek havoc upon the colonies. Once that happens, I will use it to eliminate all on Earth. And because earth has so much water, I can easily refit myself.” He turned away from the two girls and headed towards the door. “That's the one disadvantage about living on a well hydrated planet. It makes it easy for someone like me to gain the quick advantage! I will use the bulk of my Aquatic Fortress to destroy this nation!”

“I cannot allow you to do that?” shouted Dorothy, slowly standing to her feet. She drew out a concealed gun from beneath her blouse. “The only reason why you fight is so that you can enjoy the sight of death and destruction. If our deaths are only meant to entertain you, then I have a well established excuse to end your life.”

“Then, why do you hesitate?” asked the man. He turned towards Dorothy. “A person like yourself, who enjoys battle a well as I, shouldn't waver when it comes to ending the life of another. Or is it because of what you have seen that you are unable to pull the trigger. Fearing that I may be some sort of god.” Suddenly, the man thrust out his hand and a powerful sonic boom bellowed forth, knocking Dorothy off her feet. She once again slammed into the wall. The man gazed at her. “In reality, I am a god in this world. A god of death!”

He turned away once again and exited out of the room. Relena ran over to Dorothy, who had been knocked out.

“Are you alright?” she cried. “Dorothy?”

Dorothy slowly opened her eyes and looked about.

“W...what happened?” she muttered.

“We have to stop that guy some how.” Relena stated. She grabbed Dorothy's arm and placed it over her neck. She carried her fellow student out of the facility and into the chaos awaiting.

 

The two young ladies did see utter chaos indeed. The great Aquatic Fortress was now working its way over the Sanc Kingdom. This time, both mobile dolls and defenders of the nation gathered around hoping that they could stop the monstrous sphere in its tracks. But the Aquatic Fortress only gained mass as it consumed more water. Hovering over the kingdom like a watery moon, it worked its way over to the center of the Sanc Kingdom.

In the mobile suits, Quatre and the Maguanot corp. did all in their power to stop the sphere from advancing any further. But despite the bombs and the bullets that struck at it. Nothing could harm its glossy surface.

“Nothing's working on this thing!” cried Quatre.

“We can't give up now!” said Noin. “It has to have some sort of weakness.”

“But what if it doesn't?”-

“It must. Everything has a weakness!”-

 

It was then, as they continued to fire at the massive water sphere, the Aquatic Fortress retaliated with unexpected force. Firing a barrage of powerful water spouts, it shot down many of the mobile suits that were surrounding it. Many of the mobile suits and dolls exploded on impact with the spouts. Rain projectiles spurted out and struck at random suits, piercing through the armor as if it were cheese. The mobile suits fell in the cities and towns of the Sanc Kingdom like flies.

“There must be some way of taking this thing down.” said Noin. But as she flew around the ball of water, a spout sprang out and struck her. Noin went crashing to the ground. She maintained enough boost to make a safe landing onto the ground.

“Miss Noin?!” cried Quatre. “Miss Noin are you alright?!”

“I'm fine, Quatre.” she uttered.

“I'm coming down to get you.”-

The gundum Sandrock landed only a few yards from the fallen, white Taurus suit. Quatre jumped out of his mobile suit and ran over to Noin, who managed to crawl out of her cockpit with only a few scratches.

“You didn't have to do that, Quatre.” she said.

“I find it my obligation to help all my friends.” replied Quatre.

“Oh, Quatre.”-

Without warning, a spout blue out and struck the gundam. Sandrock's entire top was blown off and the mobile suit fell to the ground upon some abandoned buildings.

“Sandrock!” cried Quatre.

The two could only gaze at the mobile suit which now lay in ruins. They couldn't believe that, despite the fact that Romefeller's entire military force had been eliminated, the Sanc Kingdom would still fall.

“Quatre! Miss Noin!” cried a voice. The two turned to see Relena and Dorothy approaching them.

“Miss Relena!” cried Quatre. “Are you alright?”

“What happened to you?” asked Noin.

Relena lay Dorothy down on the ground and wiped herself off.

“I know who it is that's responsible for that monstrosity.” said Relena. Quatre and Noin looked at her, stunned.

“You do?” asked Quatre.

“Who?” added Noin.

“I don't know what his name was, or where he came from.” Relena explained. “But all I know is that he has the ability to manipulate water.”

“But how can anyone do something like that?” Quatre pointed up to the ever growing sphere above their heads.

“I can't explain how he did it. All I know is he can do it very accurately! He managed to take water from my cup, in my office, and used it so effectively, that it even blew a hole into the wall.”-

“So that's how those water spouts are able to break through the armor of the mobile suits so effectively.” said Noin. “They've been accelerated in speed.”

“But I thought the further water travels in mid air, its form and strength diminishes.” said Quatre.

 

“That's the thing. Because this guy can manipulate water, he can concentrate on it so that the spouts don't lose either their form, or there effective strength. That's why the water stays in a column form instead of having that same effect when shot out of a garden hose.”-

Suddenly, from out of the blue another mobile suit was shot out of the air. It was a large mobile suit and it began to plummet down to where the four were standing.

“That mobile suit...” said Quatre.

“But that's the...” added Noin. It was the Epyon that had been shot down and was now crashing towards them.

“Get out of the way!” cried Quatre. The four ran out of the way as the damaged Epyon fell to the ground. It skidded across the ground, soon crashing into more buildings. The four ran towards the downed Epyon to see someone emerging from the cockpit.

“Heero!” cried Quatre. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah.” replied Heero, in that same calm voice. He joined his friends, taking off his helmet. “That thing. I couldn't detect anything from it. Which only means that its pure water.”

“No wonder our sensors couldn't pick anything up.”-

“Who, or what is responsible for that thing?”-

“Relena knows.”-

“She does.”-

“Yes, I do.” replied Relena. “That thing is being manipulated by a man.”

“A man.”-

“That's right. I we never saw his face. He was dressed in a hooded cloak.”-

Suddenly, the five heard a sinister chuckled coming from the down the street amongst the smoke and fire. From the smoke, a figure appeared. A man cloaked in black.

“Perhaps we started off on the wrong foot.” said the man.

“That's him!” Relena pointed out. “That's the guy!”

“Who are you?!” shouted Heero.

“Oh, I'm terribly sorry!” the man said. “Where are my manners. We rushed through things so quickly, there was no time for introduction.”

“I'll ask you again! Who are you?!” he slowly reached for his concealed pistol.

“You may be feeling lucky with that pistol you're reaching for. But I wouldn't bet on a swift victory.” Heero hesitated to draw now that his opponent knew he had a concealed weapon on him. But never the type to hold back, Heero drew his gun and pointed it at the cloaked man. “So that's your solution. What a foolish one.”

“I'll kill you.” Heero pulled the trigger. But the bullet only went through as if the man standing before him was a hologram. Just then, the man appeared next to Heero and grabbed the pilot's wrist. He squeezed tightly, but Heero never made a peep, or cry, despite the aggravating pain. He released the gun soon after.

“If you ever intend to shoot at me effectively,” said the man, “you should first learn how to counter the attacks of a shinobi.”

“A shinobi?” asked Quatre. “You mean your a ninja?”

“Did I stutter?” He twisted Heero's arm. Still, the young pilot didn't cry out. The man locked Heero's arm behind his back and wrapped his arm around the boy's throat. “Why don't you make it easier on yourself and squeal.”

“Pain...means...nothing to me.” Heero uttered.

 

“Then I'm sure you don't mind this!” In a flash, the ninja grabbed Heero by the back of his shirt and threw him across the ground. Heero tumbled across the street. Little pieces of glass ripped cuts in his flesh. Still he stood up, staggering to his feet with all his strength. “Impressive! But still, it's not enough to outdo me.” He threw one side of his cloak over his shoulder. At his side a pair of swords were sheathed. Yet, the ninja only drew out one. Shaped like an officers club, he could easily swing it about in a circular motion using the side hilt. “I believe only one of my Mantrion blades will be necessary. This blade is specially designed for quick lunging and slashing movements. And I don't even have to change my grip. That means I leave no openings when I transfer myself from offensive to defensive. Enjoy your last few minutes of life, boy!”

The ninja came charging at Heero who was still trying to stand. With his blade drawn, the ninja intended on making a quick slash to the throat.

It was without warning, a figure appeared between the ninja and Heero. Heero looked to see a young warrior standing before him.

It was Riku. He and the members of the KH troop had arrived in the knick of time. The blade had been blocked. There was a short parry before the ninja went into defense mode, retracting the blade into a shield.

“That's enough!” said Riku.

“I was wondering when you would get here.” chuckled the ninja. He soon saw as Sora, Mickey, Donald, and Goofy jumped out, taking their stance next to Riku. “You win this round, but this is far from over! I still have my mission to complete! But this isn't over by a long shot, boys! You have not seen the last of me! Horus! Six member of the Cavendish Shinobis!” With those final words, he sheathed his blade and covered himself with the cloak again. He jumped up onto a rooftop and disappeared.

“Damn!” said Riku. “He got away!”

“Just be grateful that we got here before he could cause any serious damage to the rest of this world.” said Sora.

“Excuse me.” said Heero. “But who the heck are you guys?”

“I guess it would be best to make introductions first.” Mickey replied.

“Well, if you plan on doing introductions first,” Riku stated, “then we better make it quick!” Riku pointed to the massive sphere which lay over the ruins of the Sanc Kingdom. In a split second, the massive ball of water ascended into the air at a very high speed. So fast, that it caused a sonic boom to ring out. The party was nearly blown off their feet because of the powerful sonic boom accumulating from the sphere's acceleration.

“What is going on here?” Relena demanded. “What is with that sphere?! Why did it just spout into the air like that?! And most importantly, who are you people?!”

“We are members of a so called guardian force from another dimensional realm.” Sora started. He introduced each party member. “I'm Sora, my best friend, Riku, King Mickey, Donald, and Goofy. We have come to help save this world and defeat the one man who's been terrifying you. The man you encountered happened to be a member of the Cavendish Shinobis.”

“Cavendish Shinobis?” asked Quatre.

“Yes. They are an elite group of special trained warriors whose mission is to be deployed throughout all the dimensional realms possible and take them over by eradicating all possible threats. They intend to extend the borders of the Dark Empire by conquering other worlds.”

“The Dark Empire?” asked Noin.

“An organization bent on total conquest.” Riku began. “They intend on taking over all worlds. As many as they can get their hands on. This is just one of many other worlds that would fall prey. Who knows how many have fallen already as a result of these guys.”

 

“Should we be telling them that we're from another world?” asked Mickey. “That would be meddling in their affairs.”

“The Imperials aren't being quiet about it.” said Sora. “They intend to make themselves known to everyone.”

“What about that guy?” asked Heero. “I think his name was Horus.”

“Horus happens to be the master of the water element.” Riku replied. “That's the reason why he was able to make that massive sphere of water. From what our data says, that massive ball of water is called the Aquatic Fortress. With it, Horus is able to send it anywhere he wants and allows it to demolish anything and everything that he sees fit.”

“And because it's made completely out of water, it can't be harmed by anything.” Sora continued. “Horus can concentrate on the water so thoroughly, he can make the watery surface of the Aquatic Fortress literally hard as steel. The water spouts are also randomly fired. And because of the immense pressure of the spouts, they can break through steel as easily as a hot knife cuts through butter. Also to add, because of the energy used to create the Aquatic Fortress, the fortress itself accumulates its own heat source. So it can even survive in the cold depths of space and not become frozen solid.”

“But that thing has to have a weakness.” said Quatre. “Perhaps if we could use excessive heat like the sun.”

“Even if you had the sun in your favor, it takes a while for water to evaporate. Besides, don't you see that thing.” Sora pointed at what looked like a water spout that seemed to reach into space. “That's probably how Horus is able refit the Aquatic Fortress when needed. And because the earth has so much water, his ability to refit that giant sphere is unlimited.”

“But how does he intend to destroy the earth's inhabitants if he just lets the thing go into space.” said Heero. “Not unless he also means to attack...” Only then did Heero realize what Horus was planning to do. “Oh no! He intends to attack the colonies!”

“Without a doubt.” said Riku. “He knows of the existence of the colonies and he believes that there is no need for them. It is only the earth Horus wishes to keep in tact.”

“But why would he do such a thing.” said Quatre, angrily. “The colonies aren't anywhere near Earth.”

“Simply because he wants something to test the might of his Aquatic Fortress on.”-

“We have to stop that thing before it does any damage to the colonies.” said Heero.

“There is no way of stopping the fortress itself. The only way to stop the puppet's path of destruction is by taking out the puppet master. And that's Horus himself.”-

“Well, then that's what we'll do.” Riku grabbed Heero by the shoulder.

“What do you think you'll accomplish by attacking him head on in the state you're in now. It wouldn't take more than two seconds for Horus to kill you instantly.”

“But how do we handle the situation then?” asked Noin.

“You must go into outer space and tell the colony citizens to abandon their homes.” Mickey instructed. “It's the only way to avoid total annihilation.”

“Meanwhile, we'll take out that freak.” said Donald.

“But...uh...do you think we could do it?” asked Goofy.

“What other choice have we?”-

“None.” said Sora.

“Then, we shall do that.” said Relena. “We will go into space and tell the colony citizens to abandon their homes.”

 

“It's best to inform the ones who are most threatened.” Quatre advised. “That way they can find refuge on colonies not within striking range of the Aquatic Fortress.”

“Hey look!” shouted Goofy. “Something's coming!”

Everyone gazed up to where Goofy was pointing. From above, a mobile suit was approaching.

“What is that?” asked Sora.

“It's the Wing Zero.” Heero uttered.

“Wing Zero?” asked Goofy.

The Wing Zero made a sudden stop and landed safely on the ground. The party ran to where the Wing Zero, awaiting who would come out. From the cockpit, the pilot emerged.

“Zechs.” said Noin. “It really is you.”

“Milliardo.” Relena uttered.

“It appears I've come too late.” said Zechs.

“What brings you here?” asked Heero.

“I was coming to assist in protecting the Sanc Kingdom.” Zechs replied. “But it appears I've come too late.” He gazed into the eyes of his allies. “But at least I'm glad to see that you're all still alive.” It was then that he spotted the new faces amongst the group. “Who are they?”

“There the one's who've come to help us get rid of that ninja and his Aquatic Fortress.” said Quatre. “Sora, Riku, Mickey, Donald, and Goofy.”

“Ninja you say. Well, then explain.”-

“He's the one responsible for all this destruction.” said Heero. “What he did here to the Sanc Kingdom, he intends to do to both earth and the colonies.”

“The colonies?” asked Zechs. “You mean that giant thing I saw emerging from the earth's surface was this ninja's doing?”

“His name is Horus. The master of the water element. And that giant sphere of water you saw going into space did all this to the Sanc Kingdom.”-

“It completely eradicated the attacking forces of the Romefeller foundation.” added Relena.

“Not one ship, carrier, or mobile suit survived.” added Dorothy.

“What is this guy trying to prove?” said Zechs, angrily. “What are his intentions?”

“Simple.” Riku explained. “He wants to take it over for the sake of the Dark Empire. The one great power with the intention to taking over all worlds. Horus could care less about what happens to the people of this realm. All he cares about is subduing the inhabitants of each world to the point where they would no longer retaliate. Ever.”

“But sooner, or later someone will give rise to rebellion and eventually try to overthrow their regime. The only way that they'd be able to wipe out any form of retaliation completely is to.....” a grim face came upon them. Riku only nodded.

“You mean,” Quatre said, stunned, “he intends to wipe out everyone?”

“Everyone and everything that proves to be a threat to the empire.” said Riku.

Suddenly, there was an incoming message signal coming from in the cockpit of the Wing Zero. Zechs went to receive it and saw, on a world broadcast, the unimaginable.

“Oh God!” he said. “Seven more of those Aquatic Fortresses just emerged. One over Africa, another over Europe, another of North America.”

“One for every continent.” said Heero. “That way, the people of Earth can be wiped out quicker.”

“We have to stop those things.” Quatre stated.

 

“You know those Aquatic fortresses can't be stopped.” Noin replied. “The only way to stop these floating fortresses is to kill the creator. And that's Horus himself.”

“Man, Riku.” Sora uttered. “This guy is completely different from Isis.”

“I know.” Riku replied. “Unlike Isis, Horus attacks indirectly. Concealing his whereabouts completely. If there was only some way of finding him.”

“We'll just use the gummi ship to track him down.” said Donald.

“But we need you guys to use the gummi ship and get the others to those colonies.”-

“But what are you gonna do?” asked Mickey.

“We're gonna track down Horus.” said Sora.

“On foot?”-

“Of course not! We have our own means of transportation.” Sora drew forth his first new summoning spell. “Come out, Zeke!!”

From the light, the silver organoid appeared before them. He landed right between Sora and Riku.

“What is that?” asked Quatre.

“This is Zeke.” said Sora. “He's an organoid. He'll be our means of transportation.”

“You guys get going if you want to save the colonies and the Earth!” Riku explained. “Meanwhile, we'll do what we can to track down and stop Horus.”

“We understand.” said Mickey. “Donald! Get the gummi warmed up! We have some colonies to save.”

Suddenly, Heero jumped into the cockpit of the Wing Zero. He sealed himself up and ignited the booster engines. Relena and Quatre ran to the Zero.

“Heero!” cried Relena.

“What're you doing, Heero?!” added Quatre.

“Do what you gotta do.” Heero replied from within the cockpit. “I have some things to take care of.”

“But Heero...”-

“Leave him alone.” Zechs uttered. “He has his job like we have ours. If we stall any longer, there won't be any colonies left to defend.”

Quatre tightened his fist and looked down to the ground. He the gazed upon the members of the party.

“You're right.” he said. “Let's go!”

“We'll take care of things here!” said Sora. “”Good luck to all of you!”

“Let's go, Zeke!” The two boys hopped onto his back and the little zoid went scampering away at a very high speed.

“Take care, you two.” said Mickey, quietly. “Come back alive.”

With those final words, the party got into the gummi ship and took off towards the colonies. The second fight to save world was about to begin.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chaotic Results

 

As the gummi ship neared the colonies, the party members was debris floating endlessly through space. As they gazed on, they saw that they had been too late for some of the colonies.

“Oh my god.” said Quatre. “We didn't make it in time.”

“The colony has been completely demolished.” added Noin.

“Hey, look!” shouted Goofy. “The fortress.”

They looked on as they saw the Aquatic Fortress continue on its way to destruction. Thousands of mobile suits and mobile dolls from Oz continued their valiant effort to destroy the fortress.

“Don't those fools realize that there's no way for them to win against that thing?” said Zechs. It was at that moment an incoming message reached the gummi ship.

“Attention!” the message said. “This is Peacemillion! Please identify yourselves at once!”

“It's Howard.” Zechs put the message through. “Howard! Come in! This is Zechs Merquise! Please respond!”

“Zechs?! Is that really you?! What happened to the Wing Zero?!”-

“It's been given to Heero!”-

“I see. What is up with that watery sphere? Going out destroying the colonies.”-

“I'll explain it later. Right now, we request permission to board.”-

“Permission granted.”-

The gummi ship was hauled aboard the Peacemillion. Zechs and the others exited out of the gummi ship, only to be confronted by the sight of two damaged gundams.

“Aren't those?” said Zechs. “Gundams 02 and 05?”

“That's right.” replied Howard. “We found them floating in space with severe damage inflicted. We decided to take them aboard and fix them up.”

“That means that...” Quatre cried.

“That's right!” said a voice. Quatre looked up to see two familiar faces gazing at them.

“Duo! Wu Fei!” Quatre hovered over to them. “When did you guys get here?”

“Only a short time ago.” said Duo. “We were wondering how you were doing? Tell me, what's going on Earth?”

“Didn't you hear?”-

“Hear what?”-

“The Sanc Kingdom has fallen.” Zechs uttered.

“What?!” said Duo, stunned. “The Sanc Kingdom has fallen? But how?!”

“It was originally the Romefeller Foundation that began the attack, but they weren't the ones responsible for destroying the Sanc Kingdom.” said Relena.

“The one responsible for destroying the Sanc Kingdom is also responsible for creating that monstrosity of a water ball.” added Noin.

“That thing.” Wu Fei uttered. “That thing has no weakness. Despite my efforts, they were executed in vain. Nothing I could do could stop that sphere.”

“That's because it has no weakness.” said Mickey.

“Who are they?” asked Duo.

“They're the one's who know everything about the Aquatic Fortress and who's responsible for its creation.” said Quatre.

“Really.” said Howard.

 

“Then perhaps you can begin with why that thing is attacking the colonies.” said Wu Fei, angrily.

“I'll tell you.” said Mickey. “But it'll be a hard story for you to hear.”

 

Mickey told the situation to the members of Peacemillion. As he progressed with his lecture, the eyes of the two gundam pilots began to grow in fear.

“So that's it?” said Duo. “This guy, Horus, plans to wipe out all of Earth and the colonies.”

“All just to expand the influence of the Dark Empire to this world.” said Wu Fei. “There is no need for such evil to exist in outer space.”

“Howard.” said Zechs. “Contact all colonies who may be in possible danger. We need the citizens to evacuate immediately.”

“I gotcha.” replied Howard.

“Damn that Horus!” said Duo. “He really intends to eliminate all. Whether they be on Earth, or in the colonies!”

“We have to find this man and stop him.” Wu Fei uttered.

“Hey!” cried one of the attendants. “There's a shuttle approaching us!”

“Who is it?” asked Zechs.

“I don't know, Sir. But they intend to board us.”-

“Let them in. If we need to take in refugees, then we will do so.”-

The ship landed on the docking bay. From the opening doors, another face, familiar to the gundam pilots, emerged.

“Trowa!” cried Quatre. He ran to his long lost friend.

“Do I know you?” asked Trowa.

“Trowa?”-

“What brought you here, Trowa?” asked Duo.

“I heard about what was going on.” Trowa explained. “I wanted to do my share, but I didn't know who else to turn to. So I turned to Peacemillion because I wanted some questions answered. But now that I'm here, even though I don't know who you guys are, I feel comfortable in a way.”

“It's good to see that you're alive, Trowa.” Quatre's eyes filled with tears.

“Why did you bother coming?” said Wu Fei. “You have no recollection of who you are, or what you are. What use are you to us?”

“Wu Fei. Shush!” said Duo.

“Because I have someone I want to protect.” Trowa explained. “I want to protect her as best I can.”

“I believe that's a good enough cause.” said Quatre.

“I still say he serves no purpose.” said Wu Fei, disgusted. He leaned against the wall and folded his arms in front of him.

“Don't worry about it, Trowa.” Quatre placed his hand on his shoulder. “It's alright.”

“Thanks.” Trowa replied.

“Well, I got the message out!” said Howard. “The other colonies have already sent out a warning to evacuate! But I think you guys better get up here! There's something you gotta hear! Earth and the colonies are broadcasting the situation now!”

 

The party members rushed to the bridge of Peacemillion to hear what it was that was being broadcast.

“What's going on?” asked Quatre.

“The situation in both Earth and space have gotten worse.” said Howard.

 

“Earth and space have been placed in utter chaos.” the news broadcast began. “As we speak all major cities on Earth are being evacuated. Also, colonies A district through D district have been ordered to evacuate immediately. As we speak, both Earth and space have called a joint meeting to see if they can face these watery spheres together. Already all colonies, A-C district have been destroyed. Several have suffered a significant number of casualties. Also, Earth's major cities have been demolished by these water sphere's as well. No one knows who, or what is responsible for the deployment of these so called water fortresses.

 

“Damn it!” said Zechs. “At this rate, all of Earth and space will be deprived of human life in less than a week.

“As we said before.” Mickey explained. “The only way to stop the chaos is if and when Horus is killed. Only then will the Aquatic Fortresses fall.”

“What should we do?” asked Trowa.

“You must stay here and stall for time. Donald, Goofy, and myself will descend back to Earth and help our other companions. He turned to Goofy and Donald. “Let's get going.”

“Right.” replied Donald. The three went back to where the gummi ship was docked.

“Wait!” said Relena. “How do you intend to find Horus?”

“Leave that to us. If I know Riku and Sora, they must've already found the ninja.”-

“Good luck.” said Zechs. “We'll do what we can here.”

 

 

Meanwhile, on Earth, Riku and Sora still rode upon the back of their new companion, Zeke. Zeke, having a strong sense of intuition, knew where to find the target.

“I hope Zeke knows where to go.” said Sora.

“It seems like he does.” added Riku. “Besides, I have this strange feeling that there's someone stalking us. An evil presence.”

It was then that a mobile suit flew above their heads.

“Hey!” said Sora. “Isn't that?”

“That's the Wing Zero.” Riku replied. “That's the same mobile suit Heero was piloting.”

“It's heading towards that castle!” said Sora. “And it looks like Zeke is heading that same way too.”

“Are we going the right way?” Zeke only nodded his head and growled softly. “I guess that means yes.”

The two key bearers pursued the Wing Zero atop the silver organoid to the castle which lay ahead. Little did they know that the castle which they headed towards was none other than the Romefeller Foundation Headquarters. The facility where Treize Khushrenada had been confined.

 

Upon reaching their destiny, they saw the Wing Zero standing outside the main gates. Riku and Sora walked to the large doors of the Foundation Headquarters.

“Somewhere in there, Horus is waiting for us.” said Sora.

 

“Well, we have no other choice, but to go in.” added Riku. “We have a friend to save. And we won't know Kairi's exact location unless we confiscate the information from Horus. And it's not as if the guy will just hand over what we want if we ask politely.”

The two entered the facility, afraid of what they might find. The hallway was they walked down was long and dark. A few statues, grand tapestries, portraits, and suits of armor decorated the long corridor. But still, there was an eerie feeling amidst the silent faces glaring down at the two. A few beams of light from open windows, in certain rooms, illuminated some parts of the hall. To keep themselves concealed from any prying eyes, the two key bearers stayed in the shadows. As they walked down, they heard something rustling around in one of the rooms.

“Something's there.” said Sora.

Riku gave the silent sign and told Sora to peek in. Sora peered into the light and saw a figure standing there in dark. Since the curtains were drawn, they could only see a dark silhouette gazing about the room, with his back towards the door. Riku gave Sora the sign to stand on the other side of the door.

They waited as the person began to walk out. They heard the footsteps come nearer and nearer. When the person stepped out of the door, Sora tackled him and pummeled him to the floor. Riku assisted Sora in constraining this intruder. But as they gazed down, they saw a familiar face.

“Heero?” they both said.

“Yeah.” said Heero. “It's me. What are you doing here?”

“We'd like to ask you the same thing.” Riku replied. “Or do you usually prowl around big empty castles like a cat.”

“This castle isn't empty. I was just looking for someone. And if it's not too much trouble. How about getting off me.”-

“Sorry about that.” said Sora, helping the gundam pilot to his feet. “We thought you were Horus.”

“Is that why you guys came?” said Heero, dusting himself off. “You think Horus is here?”

“This is where Zeke took us. And he has that ability to sense energy.”-

It was then that they heard someone coming down the corridor. The three looked in the direction to where the sound was coming. Before them, a figure appeared in the darkness.

“Heero Yuy.” said the voice. “I see that you have come to see me again.”

“Treize?” Heero replied. The figure stepped into the light and sure enough, a tall man with sandy yellow hair and a blue military frock appeared before the three. It was Treize Khushrenada, the former leader of Oz and representative of the Romefeller Foundation. “I had a feeling it was you.”

“Have you come to seek council. Perhaps requesting for assistance in some way. Or have you just come to finish the job you started the last time we met.” He then gazed upon the two young boys accompanying Heero. “Who are your two companions?”

“I'm Sora.” said Sora. “And this is my friend, Riku.”

“I'm Treize Khushrenada.”-

“And exactly who are you, Treize?” asked Riku.

 

“I was once the former leader of Oz and former representative of the Romefeller Foundation.” Treize began. “I had attempted to further expand the influence of Oz throughout Earth and space. However, Duke Dermail, my successor, found that the use of mobile dolls was advantageous. Mobile dolls by the way are unmanned mobile suits. Much like the ones you saw in battle today, but they are deprived of a human pilot. As a result, they would use these mobile dolls to settle all disputes within the earth sphere. However, I found it unacceptable to eliminate the human factor. In my opinion, the human factor is most important in a battle.” Treize walked into the room which Heero had just exited. He opened up the blinds, revealing a beautiful courtyard. He then poured himself a glass of wine. Offering some to the three boys, the trio only declined. He continued with his statement. “Without the will of the person to continue fighting, wars soon lose their meaning. There are many things that push a person to fight. Personal conquest, personal gain, to get a point straight, or even to protect someone which they care for. Without the human factor, if humans only use machines to fight their battles, they lose the sense of what it means to fight. They forget how exhilarating it is to fight, they forget how tragic it is to lose a fellow human being in the midst of battle, and they forget how painful the suffering is when they themselves have been injured. That is why I dismissed myself from being the leader of Oz and representative of Romefeller. That is why I turned in favor of the gundam pilots. Because they had engaged in many battles which ended in defeat, they were able to keep others away from the delusion that war was all victory and glory. To keep the aspect of war's tragedy in perspective for everyone to see allows people to find a more peaceful solution to conclude to.”

“Why do you fight?” asked Riku. Treize sipped his wine.

“That's simple. I fight because I find the art of war to be the most noble and most enlightening of human pursuits. There is a sense of civility when engaged in battle. Despite the controversy against waging war, you would realize that many turn to it for a quick and easy solution. In my opinion, I am enthralled by war when it is fought by individuals at an equal level. However, because of the creation of mobile dolls, people are able to confront their enemies without even being present on the battlefield. To me, that is breech of honor and what it means to be a true soldier.”

“Well, perhaps your perspective will change from now on. Have you heard about what's been going on lately?”-

“I have heard. About those aquatic fortresses?”-

“What's your opinion on that?”-

“I understand that these things are unmanned weapons of destruction. And whoever is responsible for it does not truly know the meaning of what it means to fight.”-

“Well, that isn't very nice!” chuckled a voice. The four gazed to see some a dark figure standing in the doorway. “You think you know all there is to know about war and battle. But in reality, you are only trying to revive dead beliefs and dead traditions. When two warriors confront themselves on the field of battle, there's a chance that one of the two will die. However, if one were to use a machine in his place, it is guaranteed that his opponent will fall. The other doesn't have to be anywhere near the battlefield.”

The figure stepped out of the darkness, into the light of the room. Once again, the cloaked man made his second appearance.

“Horus.” said Riku.

“Aw, so you already know who I am.” Horus replied. “So introductions aren't necessary. And you figured out that I'm also the one responsible for the creation of the Aquatic Fortresses. And the only way to bring them down is to stop me!”

“That's about the size of it.” said Sora, drawing his sword from out of the sheath.

“Let's make this quick.” added Riku, unsheathing the blade at his side. “You have something we want and we know you won't give it up without a fight.”

 

“How did you guess?” chuckled Horus. He opened the front of his cloak and took out both of his Mantrion blades. Swinging them around, he took his stance defensively. “If we fight, we fight to the death. But it'll be your deaths that will be assured this day.”

Sora made the first attack with his sword lunging forth. He struck from the right, but Horus, using his blade as a shield, he evaded the thrust, knocking it out of the way. He then lunged upward towards Sora's gut, but the key bearer saw the attack and twisted his body in such a way, the blade passed harmlessly by him. Swing his blade behind him, he struck again at his target. Horus however, used his blades as a shield to black again. At the same time, shifting his opposite blade into attack mode and attempted to thrust and slash at the boy.

“Man this guy's good.” Sora thought to himself. “A lot better than we gave him credit for.”

“Unlike the other members of the Cavendish Shinobis,” Horus stated while they continued to slash and cut at each other, inflicting no damage yet so far, “I attack indirectly against my enemy. The use of those Aquatic Fortresses are an excellent example. However, when it comes to close hand to hand combat, I can's just find any water in a confined space like this. And water is an element that's so hard to master. That's why, when it comes to scuffles like this, I use my old and trusty Mantrion blades.”

“Sora's having a hard time against this guy.” Riku thought to himself. “That guy's blades are designed more like police clubs. Because the handle is placed on the side of the blade, he can shift easily from offensive to defensive in the blink of an eye. And because he's armed with two Mantrion blades, he can alternate, leaving no opening. However...”

Riku drew his sword and join the fray. Horus saw as this new opponent came at him. Horus went on the defensive. Fighting off both Riku and Sora at the same time, however, was too much even for him.

“I knew it.” Riku continued. “When fighting against a single skilled entity, his attacks seem flawless. But since you and I are both skilled in the use of swords, and since we are attacking him at our own discretion, you can suddenly see hundreds of openings to which he is open to an attack.”

“I see what you mean.” said Sora. “Now that he's fighting two warriors, of equal status, at the same time, he no longer has that steady rhythm of going from the offensive to the defensive without leaving an opening.”

“And now!” Riku thrust with his blade right into Horus. However, the cloak he wore, easily repelled the thrust. Riku stood shocked at the result. Suddenly, Horus lunged forth, his blade suddenly bursting out from behind the opening of his cape.

“Riku!!” cried Sora. Riku dodged the strike, but the blade was so swift, it cut a hole in his black overcoat.

“What you said was correct, Riku.” chuckled Horus. “When fighting against two warriors of equal status to my own, I begin to show flaws in my technique. In a way, not being able to smoothly go from offensive to defensive, I begin to show openings. But, because of that slight draw back, I had it reinforced with a special cloak. Between the heavy layers of fabric, there is a layer consisting of plates made from Gombrian steel. The strongest metal in the universe. So if there is an opening, the cloak itself makes up for that, hood and all. The reason for that is due to my fear that someone my try to stab me in the back one day. So I took the liberty of having this special cloak made to fill my needs.”

“Quite an ingenious maneuver.” Treize said, standing on the sidelines. “That man truly has an unique fighting spirit.”

 

“Don't get too enthusiastic about his tactics.” said Heero. “Remember, he intends to kill us all for the sake of his own twisted plans.”

“Yes. But I can't help admire his ability to anticipate his enemy's objectives and his ability to counter it.”-

“So even if we did get passed his blades,” Sora thought, “we still couldn't inflict any damage.”

“We have to somehow deprive him of a strength.” Riku finally realized a further weakness. “I got it! Sora!”

Sora neared Riku, still on his guard.

“What is it, Riku?” he asked.

“I have a plan. You see, we'll...”

Horus could only watch as the two whispered in each other's ear.

“If you have a plan, it won't work!” Horus lunged forth, but Riku and Sora quickly dodged. Sora suddenly took the grappling knife from his side, dodge rolled behind Horus and thrust the blade into the cloth. But the blade did not pierce. Horus swung around and kicked Sora in the face. Sora skidded across the floor and crashed into one of the tables in the room. “Tried to stab my cloak, eh? Well, it won't work! The plates are stitched to closely to ever be snagged onto anything!”

He then turned his attention towards Riku who was attempting a downward slash with his katana. Horus went on the defensive with one blade while ready to thrust with the other. However, Riku concentrated on his weight balance. So when he struck, the defensive blade, using the sword for leverage, he arched his back and swung himself over Horus's head. He landed on his feet behind Horus, but the ninja only swung both swords around him to attempt and strike down Riku.

However, Riku saw that Horus had made a fatal mistake. Using both blades in attack mode, he had made himself completely open. Riku evaded the primary slash attack from the first sword. Knowing Horus would use a thrust attack, he braced himself. Sure enough, the thrust came. Using his katana as a shield, he swayed the thrust attack harmlessly away from him. He then, used the hilt as a wedge. Impacting it with his fist, Riku forced the second blade out of Horus's right hand. Riku did a sudden undersweep kick, knocking Horus off his feet. The ninja fell on his back, but managed to jumped back to his feet within seconds of hitting the floor. But now he had only one weapon in his reach.

“You made a fatal mistake.” said Riku. “Using both your blades offensively.”

“What difference does it make?!” Horus bellowed. “Even if I attacked with both blades offensively, there's no way you could have done what you did.”

“That's where you're wrong. Would you like me to tell you why?”-

“No! I wouldn't like you to tell me why!”-

 

“Well, I'd like to make myself clear anyway. Because you left yourself open, I took that opportunity and knocked the second blade out of your hand. Perhaps you hadn't noticed the peculiar design of those blades. They are designed so one can shift from defensive to offensive without any openings. That's why the handle was constructed on the side. However, because the hilt is on the side of the blade's shaft, this poses a weakness. Though that blade has an unwavering attack and defensive ability on the side opposite the handle, it's the handle side itself that is the most vulnerable. With enough pressure placed on the handle side, the user would eventually lose grip of the weapon. No matter how strong your grip, you can't hold onto something, by a small area, when there's a greater amount of weight causing pressure on the other side. Now of course, you could have used the weaker thrust which is a vertical fist thrust. However, you wanted to inflict maximum damage on me, so you attacked with your stronger thrust, in which you lunge with a horizontal fist. Had it been a weaker thrust, you would have been able to retract back to defensive mode when I attempted to knock the blade out of your hand. However, because you used your stronger attack, the hilt's position on the blade allowed me to add enough pressure, forcing you to lose your grip.”

“You are quite observant, Riku.” said Horus. “You realized a flaw that I had not even paid attention to. And for that I will commend you. However, I still have one blade left.”

“Unfortunately, that particular blade is only best used when paired with another. And as you can see, you've just lost the other Mantrion sword. So your use of only one blade will seem rather awkward. It limits a majority of your movements that would have been otherwise unnoticeable with the use of two.”-

“That's alright. One is all I need!!” Suddenly, shifting his blade to defensive mode, Horus pressed a little button on the hilt. Just then, the short end of the blade burst out. Attached to a chord, the blade same straight at Riku.

“A hidden counterweight?!” said Riku, stunned. He saw the blade attempt to stabbed him in the head. He quickly evaded, but the blade came so close, it cut Riku's cheek. Blood dripped a little from the wound. The counterweight itself lodged itself in the wall. Horus jerked the weight back and the counterweight retracted back into the shaft.

“You see. With the use of the counterweight, I no longer need two blades to win this fight.” Horus once again took out the counterweight. “You know, as we speak, hell is probably occurring outside. While we stand here engaged in mortal combat, my eight Aquatic Fortresses are decimating all of Earth and space. So the longer you stall in finishing me off, the more damage will be inflicted on the inhabitance of this miserable little planet.”

“He's right.” Riku though to himself. “By playing around too long with this guy, many people are dying and suffering. It's best to get this fight over with here and now.”

“However...” Horus suddenly threw his counterweight and the chord wrapped around Riku's throat. Horus gave a mighty jerk. “I won't allow you to interfere with my planning. The thought of seeing so many die at my wake gets me just as riled as finishing you off.” He attempted to thrust the blade at close range, but Riku managed to grab both the blade and Horus's arm, preventing the ninja from skewering him.

Meanwhile, Sora managed to stagger to his feet. He could see as the death struggle between the ninja and his best friend began to waver.

“Riku.” Sora muttered. He grabbed his sword and ran forward to aid his friend. “I'm coming! Hold on!”

But Horus saw Sora coming. He then used Riku as a shield. Sora held back his strike. Horus took his sword and thrust his blade again. Sora evaded the strike and attempted to get himself between Riku and Horus.

“Not so easy when a friend of yours is in my grasp is it?!” He further extended the chord and wrapped it around Sora's throat. He bundled the two boys together and tightened his grip on the chords. Riku and Sora began to choke violently as the chords around their throats slowly suffocated them. “Isis was right. You would never survive passed me! Now give way to death! Accept your end!”

 

Suddenly, a shot rang out and Horus felt something slam him on the back of the head. He tumbled over and landed on top of the two boys. His strangle hold still held, but he turned about to see Treize holding a gun at him.

“I'm not the type to interfere with a duel.” he said. “However, I cannot allow a man like you to have your way.”

“You shouldn't have interfered, Treize Khushrenada!” shouted Horus. “Now you shall become my next victim. Both you and Heero Yuy!”

“That's not gonna happen!” said Heero, angrily. Pulling his pistol out, both he and Treize aimed well at the ninja.

“Haven't you fools learned by now?!” roared Horus. A sudden force of energy blew out, knocking Treize and Heero off their feet. They broke through the large glass windows and landed on the grass in the courtyard. Horus followed them out, Riku and Sora still strangling in the counterweight chord. “You could have avoided death by not interfering and allow me to do as I wish! Bust you have decided to choose the way of pain!” He released both Riku and Sora, who fell to the ground, coughing and gasping. The ninja walked towards Treize and Heero.

“Be on your guard, Heero.” said Treize.

“You fools! Displaying an act of futility!”-

“Horus!!” shouted Sora. “You forget?! Your fight is with us!”

“Ha!” the ninja chuckled. “You two are in no shape to fight me! You can barely stand!”

“That's what you think! Heal!” Sora raised his sword over his head and summoned the curaga spell. Both he and Riku were healed and ready to fight again.

“The curaga spell, eh? Well done. However, the curaga only restores your strength. Wounds are another story.” Sora looked to see that the cut on Riku's face was still bleeding. The ninja chuckled. “You didn't realize that the curaga doesn't work on wounds? When you confronted the heartless, the heartless inflicted damage to your heart and soul only. However, the Heartless were incapable of inflicting any damage that caused blood to spill. Curaga was created specifically for battles against the heartless, allowing the soul and spirit of the heart to be fully replenished. Potion has the same effect. However, when it comes to dealing with flesh wounds, the curaga spell is useless.”

“He's right.” said Riku. “I feel ready to fight, but my wounds haven't healed.”

“No matter.” Sora added. “As long as we're restored in spirit and strength of heart, there's nothing we can't overcome.”

“Then, overcome this!” Horus hollered. From his mouth, a sharp stream of water bellowed out against the key bearers. Riku and Sora saw the spout and dodged the stream. The water struck the side of the building, blowing a hole straight through the other side. “Like that little trick? It's called my Hydration Cannon.”

“Your cheap tricks won't work on us!” shouted Riku.

“Cheap trick is it? You'll ever regret saying that!”-

Horus jumped into the air and fired another blast from his Hydration Cannon. Riku dodged rolled. However, as he stood to his feet, he saw as the counterweight, once again deployed, came straight for his heart. Riku could no nothing to dodge this time. It seemed the end.

“Riku!!” cried Sora.

Suddenly, from out of the blue a shield struck the counterweight off its course. The counterweight and the shield landed harmlessly on the ground.

“What the...” said Riku, curiously.

 

“Damn.” Horus grumbled. “Reinforcements.”

“Hey!!” cried a voice from above. Riku and Sora gazed into the sky to see Mickey, Donald, and Goofy coming down.

“I hope we didn't come too late.” said Goofy.

“Boy, are we glad to see you guys.” Sora sighed with relief.

“Your path ends here, Horus!” Mickey stated. “The word is out! Earth and Space have joined forces and are now harboring refugees! Many populated areas have been evacuated successfully! So casualties have been limited to a minimum!”

“How long do you think it'll be before my Aquatic Fortresses reach these people who have safely escaped their destructive power?” said Horus. “It's only a matter of time before those people run out of places to go! And when that happens, my Aquatic fortresses will do away them all! Every man, woman, and child!”

“That is why we have no choice but to defeat you!” shouted Riku. “Unless we do that, everyone in this world will not be safe from your tyrannical rule!”

“You've caused me more trouble that your worth! This time, I will not hold back! If you're so interested in stopping the Aquatic Fortresses, you can start with this!”-

Horus began to concentrate all his energy into one spot. Soon water droplets, leftover from his previous attacks, began to gather in the center of the vortex he was creating. Every drop gathered, forming a perfect sphere of water.

“Oh no!” said Donald.

“He made an Aquatic Fortress.” added Mickey.

“Now you will witness the power of the aquatic fortress first hand!” chuckled Horus. “Destroy them!”

The ball of water went springing into action, firing powerful spouts and random energy beams at the members of the KH group. A series of explosions occurred as each beam and spout made impact with the ground and the surrounding structures.

“He really intends to finish us off this time.” said Sora.

“Then, we'll just have to turn up our attack power as well.” added Riku. “Let's see how he enjoys a few attacks which were once part of his comrade's arsenal.”