//------------------------------// // Zeke's Trials: 1/5 // Story: Balance // by BioQuillFiction //------------------------------// Where...am I? It’s so dark. Is this Darkness? It’s so hollow and...vast. No, that’s not it… it’s lonely. There’s no sound, not a single other thing here… why? Why is this place so alone, so empty? Is this all darkness is? Loneliness? Emptiness… Why is it empty? What...what’s missing? Light? Love? … A Heart? Yes… that’s it. The darkness is missing a heart… Where would… Kingdom Hearts… All hearts are born from Darkness, and to Darkness so they shall return. Right… no… no that’s not it. Hm? This darkness, the heartless… If Kingdom hearts is the heart of all worlds… the darkness, is the darkness of all worlds. Kingdom Hearts other half… it’s darkness. You’re split, like Crow, and my heart. Like Ventus and Vanitas, Eclipse and Wolf. Perhaps. What proof do you see? Your emotions. ? You have emotions. Anger, rage, jealousy, but what can birth these emotions? Betrayal. A wise answer, young wielder of the X-blade. Who...are you? Darkness. Who else? I mean your true name. ? If you are both half of a heart… who were you before? What were you? ... hahaha. You are a smart one, child. Our name is of no importance. Then what where you? What do you think? … Admin. Once. A body, form and power long since abandoned. You gave up all that, for the world you wanted to make? Not me, my old self. They wanted a world where simplicity and beauty could birth greatness. To do that, there had to be black and white. Light and Darkness. Kingdom Hearts created this realm, and I made sure life progressed. Was interesting. So you’re not evil, just doing a job. Yes. The darkness in your heart, in Eclipse, defies this path of fate, siding with the light, and tipping the scales of the already broken balance. And what of all this after the second Keyblade war? When all the worlds and reflections are one? When Cript creates the True existence? Hmm… perhaps, my other half and I can finally reunite. Without a body though, we’d be sleeping, eternally. So you don’t even have a Nobody to return to? No, but, such things are trivial, and easily obtainable. What does that mean? Greed, child. A thirst for power, pleasure, desires both right and wrong. There will be seekers, seeking us when everything is reborn. Like you, they can claim the crown of Balance. Light, Darkness and Keyblades of the past, present and future will be theirs to controle, as will the hearts of all. That’s a terrible power. Yes… so, what will you do? What? All with a X-blade, the original you wield or the newly forged ones from your Silhouette can claim the crown and live. Of all your friends, who will you let take it. No one should have that crown. Then take it. Why would I- It’s you, your friends, or an unsavory third party. ...You’re a fucking cunt… That’s life. Only one can claim this crown and power. Either it goes to you, the man who will never use it, tap into it. As is, you barely tap into your own true power, despite how much you know you can do. No one should be this fucking strong. You and your reflection share that belief like religion. You both were born into this creation to become all powerful, to destroy it all. Yet here you both are, fighting to make sure nothing becomes as powerful as you both. Not out of selfishness, but out of fear. You’re right… I’m scared of what I can do. Of how strong I am. I know what I can do. When Core took my legs, I could have easily dodged, but I took it. I took it HOPING it killed me. You want me to take the power you and Kingdom Hearts together are offering. I’ll gladly die with it. Heheheheh… We’ll see about that, Heir of Hearts. “Never call me that!” I jumped up yelling… shit… that was no dream… Fuuuuuuuuuck….. Where am… Destiny Islands? It’s night. I was on that mini raised up island with the paopu fruit tree. I checked… still in Trixie’s body. She’s out cold. Grunting, I got up. Taking a look around I didn’t see much. It’s empty… Darkness’s words rang in my head… Agh, fucking prick… As I walked the bridge I came across… “Eclipse?” My Equine other .other reborn cousin stood before me. “What is it you hate the most?” He asked. What the...Oh...this thing… well, best be honest. “My strength. I know it can defend, and protect many, but one mistake and it can end them all the same.” Eclipse vanished with that answer in tow. This was always odd. Jumping down to the main beach area. This time, Ben appeared. “What do you fear the most?” He asked. “Myself. I was born to be a weapon. I'm worried I might be walking right into that fate.” Ben left. Continuing to the dock, I was blocked by John. “Why do you always hold back?” “What? Didn't my last answer tell you? I was born a weapon… what I can do is too much for one person to ever have. If I don't hold back more people could be hurt rather than saved.” John faded away. Sighing, I headed over to the cave entrance. On the way there… the Foretellers blocked me. “Why did you discard the rules of old?” They all asked in unison… creepy. “They worked for a time… but I saw how much lack of information hurt a world more than knowing said information. All the world's where one once, shy why hide that history from everyone? Why keep them all in the dark if that blindness could kill them?” They faded away. At the cave entrance, Okami? “Now you I haven't seen in a LONG time” I commented. “What is your purpose?” “Purpose? Heh… I don't know… and I think… I am okay never knowing.” Okami vanished. Taking a breath, I entered the cave. Inside I was met with… oh my… “H____y?” I asked. But he's… “Why? Why are you special compared to others?” “Hey! I just do what's right.” “That's not an answer.” “... I don't know. I hated being a Ventral back on earth, special for all the wrong reasons because of my family… even more so because of my eyes. And while I did the right thing in saving Equis, Founding Daybreak somehow made me defacto king… Even with the council, I was always the decision maker… no matter how much I hated it. I joked about asking for the X-blade from god… my luck… my special luck…” He vanished, the door slowly opening. Behind the door was- “Core!” I yelped, summoning X. “Why are you, you?” He asked. … more questions. I sighed, disbanding X. “Can't really explain that now can I? Who or what I am… just is, my choices, my actions. If I change even one thing… then that's not me is it?” Core vanished. Taking a deep breath, I took a step into it. Darkness. Again, darkness. So empty. After a time I could see… the Dark Margin. Why am I not surprised. I took a seat on the sand. Wonder what comes next? I sat for a while, staring at the water and the washing waves… they always used to call Kingdom Hearts a place, not a thing, or the collection of hearts it is, so… how does this all connect together? Something is missing. If Kingdom Hearts is a place and a heart, split in two… where is the body? This land of light they refer to in the old texts? Is it all made up, and if not, then where or what is it… I wonder… I stood, summoning X and raised it to the moon. Within seconds, Kingdom Hearts appeared from a bright, warming light in front of the Dark Margin’s moon. “The X-blade if your Counterpart… to unlock all doors, and hearts. So, show me YOUR Keyhole!” Raising X to Kingdom HEarts, it shot out a beam of light that, on contact with Kingdom Hearts, revealed a Keyhole that unlocked. A light shined from that Keyhole, and from that light revealed a door. A tall, marble door that was easy ten feet tall, double door, with two handles to pull open. “Alright, now we are getting somewhere.” I muttered, disbanding X and pulling the doors open. I was in a large, green field. Grass and flowers where all you can see for miles. This whole place felt...so peaceful. So this is Kingdom Hearts the place? Looks simple. Walking along I didn’t see much...til I saw… “Is that a kid?” In the distance I saw what looked like a little girl, walking along a patch of flowers. “Uh… Hey there!” The kid looked up, surprised to see me. “Uh, hey… Um, do you know where I can find someone else?” She nodded. “The others all play over there.” “Play? Where are your parents then?” “Parents? There are no parents in Kingdom Hearts, just Children.” A land of nothing but children? Well now that’s interesting. I nodded to the kid. “Thanks, Can you show me the way?” I asked. Maybe it was the father in me, but I couldn't bring myself to be angry at this kid. “Sure. Where would you like to go?” I paused. I didn’t think this far, I mean who plans on getting into kingdom hearts… besides Eclipse for his self ran mark of mastery. “Could you lead me to the others?” I asked. She nodded, taking my hand and walking me along the path. I figure it was a ways away, so I decided to ask them a few questions. “So… What’s your name?” “Father Kingdom Heart said my name is Olympia.” Wait… isn’t that a Keyblade? “Olympia… So you are the personification of a keyblade?” I asked, treading the topic carefully. “No, I am Olympia. The Weapon used in the worlds by my chosin users is the body, I am it’s heart.” The heart? Then… then this is the true form of Olympia. “Wow… Okay, not expected.” I said in respectful surprise. “It’s alright. You are the second person to ever come here. So this information would be unexpected.” “The second? Who was the first?” I asked “Oh it was long ago, a lovely woman who called herself Unum. She came to take our oldest brother away, for he was her Keyblade, and Father Kingdom Hearts made him special, body and heart together like life, but keyblade in body to give his fullest strength, and the crown.” “Wait, I thought Eclipse was sent to Kingdom Hearts for his Mark of Mastery? And what about the crown?” I asked “A Station of awakening is different from a heart, and the Crown of Balance. I imagine you know of it, heir of hearts?” I took a breath, remembering that… conversation with Darkness. “I have been told of it, but please don't call me that.” I sighed. “Absolute power corrupts Absolutely.” “If you wish.” Olympia said. We walked for a while more before coming across… a massive field of...just kids. The Hearts of Keyblades. “Here is most everyone. Others might be in other clusters or wandering like I was.” “You’re all just kids… immortal kids.” I said in slight awe as I watched some kids brood in corners before another would come and force them to play, the gumps pretending to not enjoy it. “Is there something else you’d like to know?” I paused. “I guess where Kingdom hearts, your father is. We need to talk about this whole crown thing.” I said, the undertones of anger unable to be hidden. “Oh, okay then.” Olympia said, raising a finger to the sky as a beam of light shot out, a hole in the sky forming to an area of bright light. Then, a stairway of crystal looking material began to descend to our feet. “This will take you to him. He is often with the mortals hearts.” “Thank you Olympia. Go, enjoy the day.” I said, not taking my eyes of the stairway before starting the climb. Taking a deep breath, I walked up the steps. I was then in a room...with nothing but hearts floating around. Before me sat a boy, the boy was young, gold hair and blue eyes, wearing a simple white shirt and pants. “Wonderful aren’t they?” He asked me. “This is where everyone’s heart goes to when they die, and then, when they feel a suitable body is to be born for them, they leave. I remember creating them all, so much time and work into each and every unique heart.” “Kingdom Hearts, we need to talk.” I demanded as a small mote of light floated down from the sky, coming to rest in the boy’s hands. “Ah, can you believe it.” He said, standing up. “A heart, light gathered from a birth and offered to create a new heart. I didn’t even think Heart Stones were around anymore. I guess that Eclipse is the kind to defy expectations. I remember making his heart, such a fragile thing, yet so full of power and potential, a glass cannon whose power was never meant to be used for itself, but for others. That’s why his heart is weaker alone than along with others you know, it was meant to share it’s power to his allies, not use it all to fight.” Pocketing that information, I glared at Kingdom Hearts. “Yet, maybe he shouldn't have that power at all. No one should have that power. Beings with that power only continue to cause pain for their own goals.” “Power has always existed, who gets it and what they use it for are often unrelated. But you aren’t most people Zeke.” Kingdom Hearts said, letting the new heart float along with the others around. “You, you are very different.” “Of course I am, because why not? I've always been different, and I hate it. I shouldn't be any more special than Eclipse, or Ben, or anyone. They work day after day to get even a sliver of what I was just randomly given, even if I never wanted any of it!” I said, reaching the end of my patience. “Yes, but even without the X-blade, you were born for power...well, maybe born isn’t the right word. You know why Cript was born?” Kingdom Hearts asked me, surprising me a bit. “He mentioned it once a long time ago.” I said, not remembering the details. “Cript was never born, he was made. Genetically and spiritually altered to be their perfect living weapon for an evil group known as Nexus. While they pose no threat to us, now anyway, Cript was meant to be their greatest achievement.Yet, he defected. You are his reflection.” Kingdom Hearts said, walking up to me. “While I did make your heart, they made your body, your talents, your abilities. I just made the heart and they knew exactly how to get my most powerful heart to pick their body. You were born into the Ventrals, their ancestry and history is yours, your family is yours. Blood doesn’t lie...but this.” He said, taking my right hand, and turning it to show my palm, the small, blue dot on it I’ve had my whole life not there, this is Trixie’s body after all. “That dot is all the evidence you need to know you were a product of their design. Built for power for their means. You never had an option on how strong you are Zeke, that was decided for you long, long ago.” “I don't care.” I said, partly lying to myself before I continued. “So what if I didn't have a choice, I am already at a level where I fear even giving my children a hug in fear that I will forget to hold back, then even if I do, I would snap their neck. I don't want this power I already have, so why in all of reality would you or anything expect me to take up that damned crown?!” “It’s not that simple. The X-blade makes you an heir, but to actually take it, you have to tap into it. You would have to use X to gain my power, and as it flows all through you, only when it is fully yours will the crown adorn your head. So, so long as you hold back, maybe use X less, and never go into a fight blind of rage, sorrow, or in pain, then you have no fears of the Crown of Hearts, and the power you were built to obtain.” “But I don't want others to gain that power either. No one deserves that power, no one should ever be allowed to have that power! I don't trust them to not become corrupted and blind by it!” “Heh, you and Cript share that Philosophy. Listen, so long as you live and X is in your grasp, this power can not be obtained by another. And as long as you do not risk tapping into it, it will never be used, and never see the, heh, light of day.” KH chuckled “Besides, your companions, even your weakest links, all are becoming their own in power. Eclipse recreated something never seen since before creation itself. John, he is on the path to becoming the true emperor of the void. Ben is already crowned king of Nothing. And don't even get me started on the Foretellers, while not gaining power individually, are becoming a force together as a family. One way or another, those you wish to never gain power are already catching up.” And for some reason that pissed me off more. “Fine, but if they step one toe out of line… Eclipse may be family, but even that won't stop what will come for him.” I said almost cruelty. “Heh, funny. Didn’t the Foretellers tell you something similar when you first met them?” I remember that… heh, fair point. “And history is destined to repeat.” I said with a sigh. “Tell me, why them? Okami, John, even Eclipse, the apparent timeline anomaly, why them?” “Zeke. In all my time, in this realm I’ve created, in the others I’ve seen. There is one thing I have learned and am certain of. There is always a higher power. And I can tell you for a fact, if it’s tangible, Cript has either put them into fear or killed them.” KH chuckled. “And if not, well, sometimes things happen no one can explain. And sometimes, that’s good to know, even to we higher powers.” “I'm asking why did they have to go through with this. This war, fighting threat after threat, why did they have to even have a reason to gain power in the first place.” “The Foretellers are in a sense their own reincarnations, the new life to make up the wrong in their last life, John is much the same in that. Okami is a warrior, he will seek out any fight, no matter the danger. Ben finally has reason to care, and all to lose. He’ll fight to keep what he now has. Eclipse, while always a strange one, strives to better not only himself, but to protect others and teach them so he no longer has to. To him, if everyone has power, no one has fear of it. And then, there’s you. You fought because you know it was right, and because no one else was doing it. You took up the mantles of heroes who were either not ready or were not there. You bore the burden of fights and choices meant for other who were not there to make them. All because you were there when the ones fated for them were not. Forever selfless, never selfish. Yet it’s toll has started to show on you.” “Why, because I'm tired of having to be afraid of my every action?” “Because despite all you’ve done, you know that, in the end, the credit is due elsewhere, and all you will be remembered for is the failures. Daybreak’s fall, this second war. You know that for all your good, it won’t matter when you fall flat. But, at least you have loved ones, a family. If the worlds and all your allies turn on you, they will always stand with you. Even if the blood of countless soaks you to your bones.” I thought back to my girls, the kids, a faint smile gracing my lips. “I just wish no one and nothing has this kind of power, the power to destroy with with a mere thought.” “Yet it exist. You can’t stop your allies from gaining power just as you can’t know a simple life. They strive for power, each for their own reasons. And they are quickly becoming some of the most powerful beings I have ever had the pleasure to watch over. Tell me, how deep does your loyalty lie?” “...Loyalties are often questioned. In the end it’s their actions that determine their loyalties to actually helping others. Power breeds corruption, and suffering. I believe Xehanort was proof of that, or Core, my own god damned body even.” Kh chuckled. “And yet, there they stand, Some starting to rival even your current power. Tell me, what will you do I wonder… STeal their power for your own? Or perhaps possibly teach them how to control or wield their powers… no, We both know what you are feeling in your heart. We both know what action you wish to take, knowing one of you companions has literally ascended into godhood.” He said, the smile never leaving the boys face despite the sad look in his eyes. “We both know I’m just the soul. I can’t feel what the parts of my heart feel at the time. I’m no thief, like my family before me. And I’m no teacher. Your weapon makes me the peacekeeper… if I have too, I will raise it or whatever other Keyblade I can use, whatever weapon at my grasp against those who seek to break it. Even my allies if they get in that path.” “Is that your choice then? I will not question you, only leave you with one, one to think over these coming times.” He said before standing up and walking over to me, looking up at me in the eyes. “Who is it that decides one’s fate?” He said before flicking my forehead, and everything went black. I woke up smelling the salt of sea air...and the bitterness of drunk people. I got up. I’m in a jail cell… the movements point to one on a boat. Wood, cast iron bars… old too. What world did he dump me on? “Well well, Look who finally opened their eyes.” Said a older voice in a cell beside me. “Put the Captain in quite the fright ya did lass.” I turned to my left. In the next cell was a ragged dressed man smelling of thilth and strong booze. “I bet.” I said, looking over my, well, Trixie’s arm. She’s awfully quiet. Must still be sleeping. “Be thankful lass that is was my Captain whos Deck you’ve dropped on. Women in the first place are bad luck, And add that Yer a witch…” He said, motioning to my hair. “Heh. You wish I was a witch.” I said, sitting up and leading against the wood wall of the ship’s inner hule. “Magic I can do, but fighting is where my strengths are at.” “So yer a witch.” He said nodding sagely “Pretty ladies like yerself belong back home. Shame yer a witch.” “Huh, a pirate with a fur fetish? Or you just liked fucking horses?” I joked. The older man chuckled. “Sorry lass, I ain’t touching nobody corrupted by magics.” “Heh. Good, cause technically this body is on loan.” I said, standing up. “Knew yer was a witch.” He said, backing slightly further into his cell, away from me. I rolled my eyes. “Trust me, I’m no witch. Not even sure what I am. So, what’s your captain like and, why is your smelly, dirty ass in the cell next door?” “The Cap’s a nice fellow, minus the killing, theiven and ocational rapen. Got a soft spot for yer magic folk anywho. As for me? Ah, Someone told the Captain that I have laid with and deflowered his daughter.” He said, as if none of the things he just listed off were bad at all. “His daughter had a flower to take away? Doubt it.” I said. “Anyone aboard who’s rather unique?” “Besides the Cap… Rumor has it he talks to someone in his cabin. We hear him yelling sometimes but no one but him is ever seen leaving or entering.” The man whispered conspicuously. “Huh. Now that’s interesting. So, where you all headed? Let me guess, to sell or hang me someplace?” “Well, not JUST that lass. Also to sell off some lot we raided of a spanish galleon. Cap always had the devil's luck.” “Heh. Devil’s luck is a short thing, always takes back that luck with interest.” “English Navy!” Someone above yelled. “Called it.” The man went pale. “Those damned british bastards have been taking out crews left and right, even if that one Spaniard is now dead. Captain Jack Sparrow had better have a plan, or its a trip to Davy Jones's locker for us lass.” “Jack Sparrow?” I asked. Huh, so that world. Neat. “Tell me, what’s the name of this ship?” “The Barnacle, the ship that survived the dreaded Captain Salazar.” The pirate said proudly. “Huh. So, I know I fell with a pouch strapped to my leg.. Where would that be kept?” “With the rest of the loot in the hold, but lass, don’t even try it. Yer may be a witch, but right now, going topside is only going to bring more bad luck to the crew and this ship.” “Heh.” I said, walking over to the door. Between my soul enhancement from the Maiden in Black, and what Trixie did at the Bonfires… I grabbed the lock, tightened, and they broke, the door sliding open lazily. “We’ll see.” I said, grabbing a bottle of Rum and handing it to the prisoner. “Here, get wasted while the lady does all the men’s work.” He shook his head, taking the rum and drinking, muttering. “All a nightmare. Just a tad too much sun. A Witch is not about to go get your mates killed.” I rolled my eyes, heading outside. The deck was covered with Pirates and English Navy fighting. When I stepped out on deck Both sides noticed and actually stopped fighting. “Good day mates!” I said, taking a bow. “Contrary to popular beliefs aboard this vessel I am no witch, but I am much, much worse than that.” And they all got back to fighting each other. A Few soldiers I even saw shrug to each other before fighting again… yup, totally Pirates of the Caribbean. “Well my lady sure knows how to make an entrance!” Shouted a younger, boisterous, lively young man. The boy didn't even have much facial hair yet. “Ah, the Captain I take it?” I asked. “Captain Jack Sparrow, at your service, however.” He said, stabbing a soldier that had snuck up behind me. “I believe the pleasantries will have to wait.” “I am happy to lend my services...after I retrieve my pouch you took off of me.” I said, walking through the conflict, tossing Pirates to the side and Englishmen overboard. Jack whistled as he watched me part his ship, creating a path for the hold until eventually the trap door was by my feet, open probably from pirates rushing out earlier. I entered, kicking down a rushing Englishmen and tossing his blade to the side. “Good day.” I said, heading down and looking around. “Now then, where are you… Ah.” I said, seeing it on a hook in the back. I grabbed it and strapped it on. “Now then, I did promise Jack.” I said, heading back up to the top of the ship. “Attention all sailors!” I yelled, gaining some attention. “I am to fulfill a promise to your Captain, Jack Sparrow, so any and all Navy men not wishing to die, please head to your nearest life boats, or just jump off.” I said, pulling out my Dragon Bone Smasher. “And sorry about your ship in advance.” I said, jumping off and slashing down the English Navy Ship, the whole of the side breaking and then flooding with water, sinking. When I hit the water I put the massive greatsword away, and took out two daggers and began scaling up the Barnacle. I hopped back on deck, the English either tied or dead. “A promise fulfilled.” “Not lass, you are a lady, Even if you kinda are a witch.” Jack said with a shrug before turning to his men. “Loot what floats boys then get to repairs. I want this ship back to sailing before twilight!” He yelled, getting a couple cheers from his crew as they went to work. “Do all men call woman witches because they are capable or different?” “Well When a woman starts to spout nonsense and/or has some strange abilities, then yes a witch. Most women belong at home or in brothels, not out on the open sea… but I have a gut feeling you aren’t most women.” Jack said, leaning off the side of the bow. “Awh, what gave it away? The blue coat? The tail? The large eyes or was it the ears?” “The fact that you dropped out of the sky, through my ship and into my bedchambers is another.” He said with a playful grin. “But yes, you act like a human, but whatever sorcery you've pulled obviously backfired.” “It’s more like a higher power dropped me off here.” I rolled my eyes. “So, where you heading?” “Tortuga. Rotating out the crew, save for a handful, and selling the cargo. After that, back to the open seas.” The young Jack said with a voice filled with live unseen in the main series. “And rum I take it?” “Ah it's almost as if you know me my lady.” he laughed, flicking open his compass with a smile. “And with a trinket like that I take it you don’t dabble in magic?” I asked, he closing the compass quickly. “A gift, that is all.” He said quickly, though it wasn't a complete lie. “Is that so? Well then, does it work for anyone? Or just you?” “And what, pray tell, do you think this is other than just a compass?” He asked, walking toward what I assume is the door to his cabin. “Directions. To whatever you wish for.” He snapped his head to me. “Inside, now.” He said, opening the door to his cabin. “So soon? You work fast.” I joked as I entered, him closing the door behind. “Alright, spit it, where did you hear about the compass.” He said, leveling a flintlock to my head. “First off,” I said, grabbing the end of the flintlock, and bending the barrel closed. “Don’t even. Secondly, that is a story not even you would believe at your drunkest.” “For your information, I haven't even hit the bottle in my life.” The young Jack said, tossing aside the gun. “Now I need answers. I could have tossed your unconscious body overboard but I let you live. Tell me how you know of the compass!” “Fine. The short of it is I heard it from a story. Owned by a captain whose reputation is as wavy as the ocean, who is wanted and feared one day, then the laughing stock of the seas the next. One who sails on… The Black Pearl.” “The Black Pearl? Never heard of it.” Jack said “Surprised. Then again, it was sunk with it’s captain and crew, or so I heard. It was, and still can be, the fastest ship on the seas, rivaled by only the ships sailed by the oceans cursed. The greatest boat, for the seas greatest Pirates.” Jack seemed to get a look and I know the idea has sunk into his head. “So, now that you know of the compass, what of it?” “How about a little deal. There is one man on these seas who can raise the Pearl for you from it’s salty grave under these waters, but his price will be your very soul.” I said, tapping a finger on his nose. “But, I’ve begun taking up a personal...bounty hunting business, of sorts. And I know for a fact this man has stepped out of line from his duties. It’s simple, you make the deal, the Pearl for your soul, then I step in once the Pearl is yours, and kill him. You then can have the Pearl, and his ship, your choice. After all, more ships, more crew, more loot.” “I like the way you think lass.” He said before sticking out his hand with a wicked grin. “We have a deal.” “Not so fast. You don’t even know this man’s name yet. After all, once you hear it, you will rethink it.” I warned. “Really? How so, shouldn't be that hard, Long as he isn't British or a Spaniard. I tend to have a bad standing with them.” He said with a smile. “His name is Davy Jones.” I could see the car crash in his head. “Davy Jones? As in, the Davy Jones?” “Yup. The very same. That compass of yours can lead you too him, as well as myself. He was meant to guide the dead of the sea to the afterlife, but he has corrupted his purpose, now dealing with them to extend their time on this world, the oldest ending up as the new additions to the hull and ‘woodworks’ of his ship. But, his crew, all mad. But the ship… a floating fortress. Not as fast as the Pearl, but quite powerfully armed. Side by side, The Black Pearl and The Flying Dutchman under yous command would make you… immediately the most feared on the seas. And if your willing, I can help you gather more. Because there is a lot on this world, would be gods, but I know one fact for all worlds. Anything can be killed, and everything can die.” “Hmm, and what is your benefit to all this?” He asked, staring at me. “The blood of these would-be gods spilled, and, weapons. You see, I’m a bit of a collector. This pouch on my side holds many, of all shapes, sizes and kinds. Back home I can alter them to be stronger, more powerful, and for my future fights… I’ll need them stronger.” “Well, I don't understand, but perhaps I don't want to. If you get me out of this deal I make... Well then, we have a deal.” “Alright then. Just remember, don’t try and cross me when it’s over, or I’ll sink the Dutchman and the Pearl with you along with them. You saw what I did to the English navy ship with a clear head in a fight, you don’t wanna know what I can do angry swinging two of those massive swords around.” “That, we can agree on.” He said. “We will go after Davy Jones, but not before I sell off my loot and rotate crews. No point in going after it with cargo weighing us down.” “How long will that take?” “With my men repairing the hull, maybe a week without any conflict between here and there.” Jack estimated. “Hmm… Tell them to tie up the sails and tie as much rope as they can while leaving some loose to tie up elsewhere. Just point me to where Tortuga is, and I’ll have us there before Sunrise tomorrow.” He shrugged before leaving, yelling orders as his saylors looked at him quickly but obeyed with a aye. Once it was all done Jack and I stood at the front of the ship. “There, now do your thing with your… whatever.” I smiled, holding up a hand as I summoned X, the whole ship shocked and amazed. I threw him high into the air, a bright twinkle in the sky as what came down was my glider. “Impressed?” Jack was speechless “I have to admit, that is a first.” “Good. Tie all the loose ends of rope to it. Then, point to Tortuga.” “You heard the Lady men!” He shouted at them as they went about and tied all the needed ropes to the end of my glider before Jack took the wheel. “Good.” I said, hopping on. “Now then, Captain Jack. Where be Tortuga?” He pulled out his compass and smiled. “90 degrees of our starboard bow, straight on till morning.” I made the adjustments in my direction, the men shocked as I TURNED the ship with ease. “If I were you lot, I’d hit the ground and hold your hats!” The crew and Jack did just that as I began to move, pulling the ship with ease as we got faster… and faster...and faster. Jack held onto his hat like a lifeline as the rest of the crew did the same with the railing, most of them yelling or screaming, though I swore I heard at least one whoop. I saw the island ahead and slowed, carefully angling the ship till we were only a dozen or so feet from the dock. I quickly jumped back on deck and disbanded my glider. “As promised, before sunrise.” I said to Jack, whose legs were shaking as he stood from the ground behind the wheel. Jack panted heavily. “Never, do that again.” He said, covered in so much water it was hard to tell whether or not he soaked himself. “Wuss.” I said. As the crew regrew their nerves and docked the ship propper, Jack walked down and was met by...holy fuck is that Gibs? He has hair… and isn’t fat. “Jackie boy! Back in one piece ah see.” The young… er Gib’s said with a hearty laugh. “Hello.” I said, waving to him as his eyes widened. That’s gonna get old fast. “What kind of demons did you talk to witch, and more importantly, Jack, what was she doing on your ship?!” He panicked. “Long story.” I answered. “Really long story, one I’d tell over a Pint but we have a schedule to keep. I want to get a new crew and unload before the end of the week after all. What I have planned my friend, will be worth it dealing with woman on board my ship.” I rolled my eyes. “So where will we be staying during this week?” “I will be staying inside my cabin.” Jack said, drawing out the I. “You are welcome to join me, but I must confess I have never laid with a horse, nor did I ever think I’d be forced to say that out loud.” He said confidently. I chuckled. “Cute, but sadly I’m taken.” “Cause all the good ones are.” I heard him mumble with my enhanced hearing. “Well then, Either pay for a room at the tavern or back to the brig… speaking of which I need to let back out Bob… the practical joke has gone on quite to long if I must say.” “Tell you what. I’ll show you something, and maybe you’ll see how and what I really am differently? But not here, away from prying eyes.” I looked over at Gibs. “Sorry mate, that means you too.” “Ah dont trust her jack, but I’ll leave it to you… but you bet your damned arse that I’ll be on that ship with yee before the end of the week.” Gibs said, giving me a distrustful look before going on his way. “Awh, I think he’s got a crush on me.” I said as Gib’s was out of earshot. “So, to your Cabin then?” “Yes, it is the only place on this island without ears.” Jack said, walking back over to the room from earlier. As we entered Jack closed and locked the door. “So, first thing’s first. Can you guess what this is called?” I asked, summoning X. “No clue, a oversized sword with keys attached?” He said with a air of humor. “Not too far off in the simple version. It’s one of many kinds of Weapons called Keyblades, this one is called the X-blade, X meaning Key, or Ki. Means the same. This weapon is a guardian of a special door.” “Alright, so an oversized, magic key.” He summed up “In the most basic way of putting it. Yes. With it, I can travel to other worlds, and reflections.” “I’m not going to pretend to understand what you mean, but please, continue.” He said with surprising manners. “Your world, these seas, are just one of litteral infinite many. The ship's people use where I come from, Daybreak Empire, sail the stars themselves Jack. But there are other ways of traversing other worlds. The one I use is called a DTL. Or, Door to Light. A pathway directly linking locations worlds apart with a single door.” “Either you are delusional, pulling my leg, or you are speaking the truth, and I don't know which I fear more.” Jack said honestly. “You tell me.” I said, a DTL opening next to us. Jack’s eyes went wide as he looked over the door of pure, near blinding light. “Turn that down!” Jack yelled fearfully “Can’t. That’s just how it is.” I said, waving an arm towards the doorway. “Normally a lady goes first but this is your ship. Take a step Captain.” Jack took a step towards it, looking at it fearfully before looking at you, closing his eyes, and walking in, his hand gripping his compass tightly. I walked in with him. When Jack and I exited, opening his eyes… he stood among the stars. All around he saw the stars closer than ever before. “Captain Jack Sparrow, Welcome to Daybreak… empire…?” I said, taking a look around myself… We were just on a chunk of floating walkway. “What… where is…” I said, worried as I looked over… my heart, er, Trixie’s. Fell into her stomach… Floating rubble. The buildings, the roads...the castle! It’s all gone. “No… no what happened!?” “A bunch of rubble lass… it is obvious someone came over and… well…” He said, taking off his hat and placing it over his heart. “No, well, possibly. But I developed too many precautions, and Everyone and I mean Everyone here had Keyblades and means of escaping… My family. If the worse did happen then they have to be in Boletaria. It’s the one place I told them to go if this very thing ever happened.” I said, opening another DTL. “Come on!” I said, grabbing Jack by the wrist as I dragged him through. When we exited, I saw the rebuilding of Boletaria was well along. Jack saw the castle, the sky, the very area and was jaw dropped. “They have to be here. Our home was a literal space ship.” “After you lass. I still think I ate some funny mushrooms from all this.” He said, rubbing his eyes. I ran, Jack following since he wasn’t dumb and didn’t want to get lost on another world. I ran through the castle til I found someone… Celestia! “Celestia!” I yelled, surprising my wife and hugged her tightly. “Z-Zeke!” She replied, hugging me back. “Oh thank goodness… you saw Daybreak...didn’t you…” I just nodded, too happy she was okay. “The others are all here. We are all safe. Some of the kids are off world Exploring, mainly Tiara.” She told me. “What happened?” “That… is a long story…” “So...Charlie is gone… and that...that fuckwad Master of Masters broke the heart!” I said in raised voice shock at the events I missed. We were all gathered around the table, even Jack who kept eyeing chief, the soul starved cook. “Yeah… it was chaotic.” Luna spoke. “Thankfully we got a report from Mors not long after. Out of Daybreak’s total four million population only fifty didn’t make it. All guardsmen and fighters.” “... Well, you can’t really argue with the results… I still… I never imagined the Evacuation procedures would even have to be used.” “I hate to interrupt this… reunion.” Jack said, eyeing Chief again. “But I’d like to be someplace that makes more sense to me. No offence, but all this still creeps me the hell out.” “In a bit.” I told him. “There’s some really well aged wines in the kitchen.” Chief said. “Come, best way to pass the time is with a bottle.” Jack sighed before going over with Chief, still twitchy and trying to make sense of the last hour. “So… who is that?” RD asked. “Just another worlder I’m helping.” I said. “So… how have you all been settling?” “It took a bit but it’s alright.” Twilight said. “Actually, Pure and the blacksmiths have a surprise for you.” Unum spoke up. “Oh, right!” Pure said, standing up. “Come on, it’s in Ed and Boldwen’s shop.” With a smile I let Pure walk me over to the Blacksmiths shop. Once there… there was a lot of weapons… all with Keychains.. “Like it? The Keyforge you made for them, they’ve been working with it on literally everything.” “So these… are ALL Keyblades?” “Yup. Even the armors, sheilds. Even the arrows and crossbow bolts.” “Wow… this is amazing… do they work like normal Keyblades?” “Most do. Armors need to be part of a set to appear. The set doesn't need to match. Just needs to have it all there. Arrows and Bolts return to the Bow or Crossbow they were fired from, lot of those. Didn’t know how they’d work so now we need bows and crossbows for all the extra bolts… and there’s a lot.” “You are forging a whole new breed of Keyblades.” “Yeah, and here’s one for you.” She said, lifting the wood box on an anvil up and over to me. “It’s new Keyblade armor. Forged in the Keyforge, and enchanted to adjust so if and when you get your body back so it will still fit. Since when you were split your Keyblade armor must be with Kexez.” “Oh...thank you Pure.” I said, taking the box and opening it. The metallic sleeve was black, gold and silver in it’s coloring, and thinner than my old one. I placed it on, and activated it. The armor was like Eraqus’s, only black, gold trims and silver highlights. It even had a cape. “This looks amazing!” “I’m glad you like it. Ed, Baldwin and I all worked for days to make it perfect.” “When did you pick up Blacksmithing?” “Since I arrived. It was more rewarding than paperwork and this, well… makes me feel close to you when you are away.” I deactivated the armor, and gave pure a hug, and kiss. “Pure, someday the whole lot of us won’t have to do this. We can have a nice, big house in a wide open countryside, and I’ll never have to leave you all again.” “That sounds nice… someday soon?” “Someday soon. For now, this… this is going to help make it happen quicker.” I said, looking over all the swords and weapons imbued with a Keyblades power and strength. “Well, don’t be shy. Take some. If anyone can use them right, it’s you. Some people from Daybreak are gonna come by and gather the most of them and drop off some food and other stuff we’ll need.” “Glad the world is gone, er, I mean I’m glad despite the world being gone, Daybreak itself is still alive.” “Heh, same.” Meanwhile, with Jack and Chief. “So this bitch comes into me in, raving about her cheating husband and how much of a womanizer he is, all while she’s piss drunk and fucking over the bar table with some hunters!” He laughed, Chief and Jack both almost five bottles of well aged, undiluted wine in. “Ha! Your a funny one Matey!” The young man laughed “Don’t have any such stories myself yet, but before long I will!” “Ah I bet. Come back and tell me them, the wine will be here.” He said, the two, still drunk, but calming down. “You know what I miss most about not being a walking dried corpse?” “What is it?” Jack asked, still chuckling a little. “Me pecker. As is it’s like dried meats left far too long in the sun, but before I made whores beg. Ah… Maybe one day I’ll be back to normal. But all the archstone shards that can return me body proper only work if I have a soul, and they don’t call folks like me Soul Starved for nothin.” Jack went into a deep thought. “Well… was your soul destroyed or was it taken?” He asked, rubbing his compass. “Taken. When the demons came they stole mine when the world eating fog came along. Was to deliver it to the Old One, who eats them and gives the delivering demon more power. Don’t know if it was or not though. So many damned souls still around but none I’ve gathered was mine.” Jack held his compass over to Chief. “Hold on to it, open it, and think of what you most desire. I’ll be expecting it back though.” Confused, mostly from the wine, Chief took it, and opened it. The red arrow spun around for a bit before it pointed to the left. “Is...is it broken? North is the other way… I think?” “The compass points to what your heart desires most, not north.” Jack said, taking another swig. Standing, drunkenly, Chief got up, Jack following as the two followed the compass. Each turn and path till they arrived near the Castle Throne room. “This was the guard’s barracks area. Haven’t searched here much.” Chief said, making a right, following the Compass’s directions. “Weird that it is here.” Jack said, still drunk himself. “Well, a dead soul starved might have had it. Wandered about til it found its way here. You’d be surprised what you can find on corpses in strange places.” Chief said. The compass then turned, pointing at a door. Jack and Chief looked at one another before opening it. They then met with a fat, dark skinned man. “Fuck!” Chief yelped, shutting the door. [img][url=https://demonssouls.wiki.fextralife.com/file/Demons-Souls/Fat%20official.jpg[/img]https://demonssouls.wiki.fextralife.com/file/Demons-Souls/Fat%20official.jpg[/img] “Alright, what the hell was that.” Jack said, looking at Chief. “A Fat Official, a lesser demon that takes the form of a fat noble. Ah shit, if my soul is in that ugly lard bag we need a good weapon. I didn’t see an axe with it, so it must be the ones that carry a whip and cast spells.” “More magic… why not?” Jack groaned. “Tell me about it.” “So, what will you do, knowing where your soul is?” “... Mind if I borrow your sword?” “Uh, sure.” Jack said, unstrapping and tossing the undead the blade. “Thanks.” He said, giving Jack back his compass. “Stand back, it’s likely waiting for us to open the door. They’re deadly, but thankfully not that smart.” Jack backed up, Chief opened the door and dodging a blast of Fire. Startled, Jack raised his compass, forgetting his pistol was broken. Chief then, swiftly, jabbed Jack’s sword into the demon’s skull. The demon laughing as it staggered backwards. Acting fast, Chief grabbed it’s whip, and began strangeling the beast. “Holy shit.” Jack said. “This has got to be the booze kicking in.” “Jack, yer sword! Finish the monster off!” Jack saw the blade and time seemed to freeze. He had a choice, run in fear, or help one find happiness. The sound of something shattering echoed in reality as Jack started to run for the blade. He grabbed the blade and with a battle cry, stabbed the Demon through. “Heh...heh..heh…” The demon laughed, falling over silent as a small, grey/white glowing orb floated from it. “My...my soul.” Chief said, taking the orb. It flowed into him, and before Jack’s eyes he began to change. His dried skin was rejuvenating with life as he saw the real him. He was Eastern, black hair, pale skin, just slightly taller than him… with green eyes. “Ha...hahah! Jack you did it!” Chief said, grabbing Jack into a hug. “I’m human again!” “Oof!” Jack grunted as the hug striened against his ribs. “Alrighty mate, you can let go now!” He wheezed. Chief did just that. “Jack… I owe you my life. Literally I’m alive again thanks to you. If there is anything I can do, anything please ask.” “Hmm… How about a deal? You Supply booze and come drinking with me every now and then, and in a few years, its repaid.” Jack said with a air of smugness. “Deal. And if I find your world to my liking, when my debt is repaid to you, I’d be happy to serve under your sails. Always wanted to sail on the seas. Grew up on river boats and well, that’s not as much fun as the thought of a real ship.” “Aye that's it isn't savvy. Well, lets head back, before any wonder where we’ve gone.” “Right...oh.” Chief said, seeing Jack’s sword had a rather large chip. “Your sword’s broke… Don’t worry, I know a place.” Chief said. Chief and Jack sneaked to Ed and Boldwin’s shop, careful Zeke and Pure didn't see them as they entered and they left. “Ta da! Ed and Boldwin’s weapons. All forged in the Keyforge, so no sword you pick here will break, easy anyway, and if you lose it, just call it to you, and it will return.” Jack enterd and looked at the swords, specifically any in a cutlass style, humming to himself before one gave him pause. It was steal, that much was clear, but it’s blade glowed a faint golden color that drew the eye. Attached to the bottom of it’s handle was a chain, leading to a small gold coin with a crown and crossed swords behind it on one side, and a drawn bow on the other. Jack felt compelled to take it, reaching out past other blades before grabbing the one that had mesmerized him so. “Fine craftsmanship.” He said to himself, though he knew it was much better than fine. “Ed and Boldwin alone are good, but together they can craft anything. They made most of this stuff in just the first few weeks when they got the forge. Well, come on now. Let’s go show everyone and celebrate. The old King’s brandy is worth two thousand gold, aged for half a century, and tastes like you just felt true love. Let’s get wasted on it.” “Lets go savvy!” Jack whooped, sheathing the blade.