The dark tendril didn't like the flash of ice, or the harsh strikes from the old Keyblade. The ice spread down the root, slowing it down considerably. This allowed the Keyblades to do more damage, and it finally cracked and severed, freeing Riku's foot. The ice continued to travel more towards the growth itself, not freezing it completely but still leaving it with a chill.

More dark tendrils began to move, seeking something else they could latch onto and infect, but the ice spell slowed them down significantly. All the while, the partially-exposed seed attempted to slowly sink back down into the darkness, trying to find safety in hiding.