The Year Between - Pt 53 [REVISED];

[keybearer]

Chapter 53: One Last Reprieve

With Riku’s recovery drawing near and the Organization lurking around the bend, time was short. It’d be simple enough to focus their efforts on productivity. To plan, to train, to ponder and wait. But sometimes a little reprieve was needed to keep their spirits high. To allow them to forget their woes, if only for a while, and come together, letting the fires of friendship kindle and grow.

As Yen Sid had suggested, Aqua was more than willing to nurture said flames. Granted, with so much going on, that was easier said than done. The darkness waited for no one, and with so many worlds struggling against the Heartless, there was little time to rest. Fortunately, every rule had its exceptions. Free from her duties, Aqua was content to sit atop the steps leading into the tower, watching and listening to the wealth of company around her. Perhaps this would provide the direction she needed. Only time would tell.

Everyone else had already gathered before her. To the far left, near a clustering of pine trees, she spotted Sora and Roxas conversing with one another. To the north, she witnessed Naminé seated along the cliff side, legs draped over the edge, while Donald and Goofy steadily approached her. With swift, graceful strides, Kairi milled about, stopping briefly at Xiruk and Mickey’s side with a mischievous grin. A ball of water splattered on the back of the Xiruk’s head, and with a sound like a growl and a gasp all in one, he proceeded to bolt after her, while Mickey gave a hearty laugh.

It was as if the chains binding them to their duties had been severed. As if they’d drifted off into a far off world, where laughter and smiles replaced shadows and doubts.

x.x.x

“So, what’ve you been up to lately? Any luck finding a way back?”

Those were the words Sora dreaded. He knew it’d come up sooner or later, but the moment Roxas asked, he gritted his teeth, wrapped his arms around his shoulders, and gulped all at once. His gaze fell to the surrounding blades of grass, and he shook his head. There was no point in lying for his sake. He’d made a promise, but the only known solution made keeping that promise impossible.

He heard Roxas’ light footsteps move towards him, and he instinctively stepped back. He didn’t even dare to meet his Nobody’s eyes when he asked, “Did something happen?”

His eyes shut tightly, and his head slowly bobbed up and down. There’s a way I can change back for sure, but…

“Let me guess: there’s some kinda catch.”

Are you kidding? It’s a huge catch! His cheeks puffed up, his eyes glowed brighter, and he scraped his shoe against the grass. Roxas, Yen Sid said that the only guaranteed way for me to change back is if we fused. And I could never ask you to do that…

When Sora looked up, he expected to see Roxas’ eyes burning with rage, his lips pulled back to reveal his clenched teeth. Instead, he just crossed his arms, shut his eyes, and exhaled softly.

“Well, it makes sense. You’re my heart, and I’m your body. It’d probably be better for you if we did merge…”

No way! Sora swept his arms out, back bent and eyes narrow. Roxas, I’m already keeping Ven trapped inside me. I don’t wanna take your life, too!

“Heh.” His lips curled into a tiny smile. “Thanks, Sora. That means a lot to me.”

Well, good, but I still don’t wanna take my chances. What if I wound up, I dunno, absorbing you on accident or something? If there’s even a chance that could happen—

He thumped his hand against Sora upper arm, and Sora immediately batted it away. In turn, Roxas’ smile grew even wider. “I don’t think you’ve got anything to worry about.”

But—

“You’ll find a way, and until you do, I can wait. You don’t have to rush that promise for our sake.”

“You heard him!” said Ven, and Sora could totally picture him pumping a fist in the air. “You’re way too important to both of us, and I’m not about to let you do anything crazy.”

His cheeks puffed up again, and he crossed his arms with a slump. Gee, thanks, Ven.

“Hey! I’m not saying that you will…”

Roxas’ brows quirked, and he tilted his head for a moment. Then, with a shrug, he raised one of his swords. “Well, if you wanna blow off some steam...”

Sora stepped back. But c’mon. You’ve got two swords! Isn’t that a little unfair?

“And who said I was gonna use ‘em both?” He waved his right arm. Purple smoke surrounded his fingers, and before long, he’d called his second Soul Eater, only to toss it straight at Sora. With a quiet gasp, Sora fumbled the sword, then stared up at his Nobody.

I dunno, Roxas. I mean, it’s been so long and… He flexed his claws, squinting at the sword.

“Aw, c’mon. You’re gonna have to use a weapon when you’re human again.”

I guess. He slowly wrapped his claws around the Soul Eater’s hilt, bent his knees, and tried slipping into his old battle stance. Just, uh… don’t be surprised if I suck.

“Then I’ll go easy on you. Problem solved.”

Then what’s the point? He gazed at the sword, head shaking. Give me your worst!

“Are you sure about that?”

Positive!

Eying his own sword, Roxas gave a small shrug. “Well, don’t say I didn’t warn ya.”

x.x.x

CLING! CLANG!

Naminé’s gut wrenched. Her hands grabbed each other in a vice. If she had a heart, she was sure it’d be pounding nonstop. Despite wielding dual swords for more than a year, Roxas tore across the lawn in spite of his handicap, jabbing his blade at Sora’s gut. Eyes wide, Sora stumbled to the left, striking Roxas’ back before wobbling forward. Though the hit staggered Roxas a little bit, Roxas slammed his foot down on the grass, swiveled around, and sent a single black pillar crashing against Sora’s face.

The force flung him back against one of the trees, and his hood snagged on one of the branches. Huffing, Sora flickered down to the ground and briefly crouched on all fours before scooping the sword back up with a frown and hobbling back into the fray. Really, Naminé wasn’t sure what Roxas was thinking when he started this spar, and she certainly didn’t know why Sora asked him to unleash his full power. The responsible thing to do would be to march right over to them, pull them aside, and tell them to stop being so careless.

Perhaps it was her innate knowledge of Sora and Riku’s memories, but something told her it wouldn’t make a difference. Boys would be boys, as Kairi would say.

Trying her best to ignore the one-sided spar, Naminé scooped up her sketchbook and set it on her lap, flipping to a brand new page. She was about to start sketching when she heard someone clearing their throat, followed by a soft little ‘a-hyuck.’ The sound made her freeze up, pencil clenched.

“Uh-oh, Donald! I think ya might've scared her.”

“Very funny.” He harrumphed, waddling closer to her with a crinkled up expression. Whatever reservations Naminé had before vanished with one quick glance, and she bit her lap in an effort to save Donald from the sound of her laughter.

“It’s okay. I wasn’t scared. Just a little surprised.”

“Aw, but how come?” said Goofy, giving his head a scratch. “It ain’t the first time we’ve hung out together.”

“I know that, but…” She twirled a lock of hair around her finger, eyes drifting across the clearing. “I just figured you’d be busy with the King or Kairi, or even Xion.”

“But we see Kairi every day,” said Donald. “And we’ve known King Mickey for years, but whenever we see you, you’re usually off with Xiruk.”

She raised her index finger and tried to speak, only to stop and fidget with one of her pencils. “I suppose you’re right. We really don’t know each other that well… at least, you don’t know me.”

“And that’s why we’re here!” Goofy flopped down beside her, giving him a wide, warm smile. “Why, shucks, you’ve been workin’ so hard to bring Riku back, and I don’t think we’ve ever sat down and thanked ya properly.”

Her cheeks flushed a little, and she gazed down at the page. “You don’t have to thank me, though. I’m doing this because—”

Donald sat down on her other side pressing a finger to his beak. “You don’t have to give us excuses. We want to thank you. All that memory stuff’s gotta be exhausting!”

“Just a little.” An airy laugh escaped her, and she tucked a loose lock of hair behind her ear. “But… you’re welcome. Sorry it’s taken as long as it has.”

“Are you kidding?” Donald snickered and slowly rolled his eyes. “You’re having to reconnect every one of his memories. I’m impressed you’ve gotten it done so fast.”

“Yeah, ain’t Riku about sixteen now? Gawrsh, he might even be close to seventeen, now that I think about it.”

“He’s got a few months to go.” Naminé giggled, this time more genuine than before. “But he is close. And this time, you might be able to celebrate with him.”

“Gee, guess we better start plannin’ for that party, too!” Goofy stopped, cupping his chin in his hand. “Actually, now that I’m thinkin’ about it, we’ll be able to spend Halloween, Christmas, and his birthday together! And wouldn’t it be swell if we could all get together for the holidays?”

“If there’s even time.” Donald sighed, arms crossed. “We’re gonna have our hands full just trying to take out those Nobodies. Don’t you think we should save celebrating for after it’s over?”

“No way! I mean, sure, we’re gonna be busy bein’ heroes ‘n all, but we can’t fight every day. And sometimes ya gotta take a step back and enjoy the little things in life, like bein’ with your friends ‘n family, singin’ songs, eatin’ feasts.”

“And presents?” Naminé grinned. “I heard there’s a world called Christmas Town. Maybe you could all go there sometime.”

“You mean we could go there.” Goofy draped an arm over her shoulders and chuckled. “It ain’t just about the four of us anymore.”

“But I wouldn’t want to get in the way. And I could always just go with Xiruk and Rox—”

Goofy silenced her with a shake of his head. “Listen here, Naminé. After everything we’ve been through together, I’d say we’re all one big family. A kinda big, kinda loud family with lots of people who look alike!”

She would have commented on Goofy’s sincerity, but the sheer mention of lookalikes squeezed yet another laugh out of her, and Donald burst into a cackling fit. Kind of silly, really, when she herself shared Kairi’s face. Still, Goofy’s sentimentality wasn’t lost on her, and after a few seconds, she beamed up at him.

“You’re so sweet, Goofy. And I suppose it wouldn’t hurt. I’ve never really celebrated before…”

“Gee, not even this year?”

“No,” said Xiruk, stepping away from the King. “I mean, we’ve been on the move for most of the year, and before that, we were stuck with the Organization. So… count me in for this whole holiday get together.”

“Hey, maybe you’ll end up under some mistletoe.” Kairi winked and gave him a little nudge, and at that moment, Naminé squeaked, her cheeks red hot.

“U-um… don’t you think you’re getting a little—”

Xiruk was just as red, coughing and waving his hands. “Sheesh, Kairi! You can’t just—”

“Maybe they don’t even need mistletoe.” Donald snickered, rubbing his hands together.

She felt a sharp twinge inside her chest, and her eyes fell to her lap. Biting her lip, she tried to shake the feeling away. After all, she was a Nobody. She wasn’t supposed to feel in the first place. Still, the laughter made her face burn. A bubbling sensation built up inside her stomach, as if she’d explode at any moment from fear, guilt, embarrassment, perhaps some strange combination of all of the above.

Then, just when she thought it’d reach a boiling point, the clings and clangs of the sparring stopped, and Roxas stormed towards the group with a pout.

“Hey, knock it off.”

“Aw, I’m sorry.” Kairi looked to Xiruk, then Naminé, her cheery expression nowhere to be seen. “I was just trying to have a little fun.”

“No, it’s okay.” Naminé shook her head, cheeks still a little pink. “But, well… we’ve still got a long way to go. Summer isn’t even over yet.”

“Y-yeah.” Xiruk coughed again, dragging a hand down his face. “So, uh. Let’s not get too carried away. We’ve still got a lot of work to do, anyway.”

x.x.x

With everyone so busy, Aqua still wasn’t sure where to begin. With her cheek resting against her palm, her eyes flitted to the left, where she found Sora seated on his rump, panting and rubbing his lower back while Roxas scooped up his other sword. Kairi had seated herself down next to Naminé, Donald, and Goofy, and Xiruk was whispering something in Mickey’s ear. This caused Mickey’s face to turn red, his lips to twist into an awkward smile, and shaky laughter to drift through the air.

Well, seeing how there was already such a large gathering around Naminé, how could she resist a closer look? As luck would have it, the surrounding group slipped into silence, giving Aqua the perfect chance to stride over and join the crowd.

Not to be rude, she stopped a few feet behind Naminé, back slightly bent so that she was closer to her level. “Would it be all right if I joined you?”

“Oh!” Naminé dropped her pencil in her lap, freezing for a moment. Seconds later, she scooted to the side. “I didn’t think I’d be getting an audience.”

“Really? But you’re working so hard.”

“I know, but they’re just sketches. I’m sure there are much better artists out there…”

“Well, that remains to be seen.” Beaming, Aqua seated herself next to the girl and dangled her legs over the cliff. Turning a little to the side, she peered down at the sketchbook, coated with etchings of purple islands against a lavender sea. Strange. “So, what world is this?”

She bit her lip and shut her eyes. “They call it End of the World…”

Aqua leaned back, blinking. “That’s a foreboding name. Is there a story behind it?”

“There is, but it’s not exactly a fairy tale. The best way to describe it is the remnants of every fallen world. When their hearts are stolen, they end up here, if not the Realm of Darkness.”

Aqua couldn’t help but sigh, a dull ache seizing her heart. “To think that such a place could exist…”

“Aw, but it ain’t all bad!” said Goofy. “All we’d really have ta do to restore those worlds is seal the Door to Darkness.”

Right. She’d heard about the door—wasn’t it what led Sora to her in the first place? Cupping her chin in her hand, she sifted through her memories. “But if that’s the case, wouldn’t it be simpler to close the door ourselves?”

“Not a chance.” Xiruk moved closer, setting his hands on his hips. “If we closed the door now, those worlds might be safe, but we’d also lose out on Gummi travel while the Organization and Heartless keep hopping through corridors. No ship means having to rely on the darkness or Star Shards.”

He raised a valid point. Reaching behind her back, Aqua pulled out her own Star Shard, rotating it in her grip. A few months ago, this would have risked catapulting her into another world; that alone spoke volumes to the risks such a plan would entail.

So, instead of pressing the subject, her gaze returned to Naminé and her drawings. “So is every drawing here from Riku’s memories?”

She nodded, flipping back several pages, until she stopped on an image of Sora, Riku, and Kairi seated at the edge of a familiar curved tree, on a small island overlooking the setting sun. “Drawing’s always helped me channel my powers. It’s one thing to find the chains in a person’s heart, but if I can’t visualize them, then it’s really difficult to reconnect those links.”

“Hmm… So how do you find the chains? What is it like to have access to so many memories?” Her face flushed slightly, and she scratched her cheek. “Oh, but if I’m asking too much at once—”

She giggled. “It’s all right. I know probably sounds a little abstract, but if I had to describe it… well, it’s really just something I feel. When I look into the heart, the chains appear as flashes of thoughts, feelings, images, and it’s my job to translate those sensations into something coherent.”

“Giving thoughts form… You know, that doesn’t sound too different from any other form of magic.” Though obviously there were deeper complexities, and more importantly, “I’m amazed at how you’ve been using your power. If anyone else had your gift, they’d probably use it carelessly.”

The tip of Naminé’s pencil snapped, and she sucked in a mouthful of air. “I wouldn’t really call it a gift. Not when I’ve inflicted so much pain.”

“Every power can be exploited.” Aqua scooted closer, gesturing at the page. “Even the Keyblade has been used to bring pain, but it also has a potential for good if used with proper care.”

“And you really think I could do the same?”

“You already have.” Kairi squeezed her shoulder. “And I’m sure there are other ways, too! You could help people with amnesia recover who they are or remind people of their happiest memories whenever they’re feeling lost or afraid.”

Naminé’s mouth went slightly ajar, and her eyes became round as snowballs. “I never even thought of that…”

“But do you see what we mean?” said Aqua. “Magic is only limited by your own ingenuity. As long as you have good intentions, I’m sure you’ll continue working wonders.”

With Naminé’s confidence hopefully renewed, the group spent their time looking through Naminé’s sketchbook, passing images of winding hedge mazes surrounding living decks of cards, a twirling mermaid and a smiling yellow fish, and even some familiar faces, such as Peter Pan soaring across a starlit sky. All around them, the excitement continued. Xiruk and Roxas charged at one another, Soul Eaters clashing with Keyblade. Sora flopped next to Aqua and began doodling stick figures of Kairi, herself, and Naminé all in flowing capes.

But there was someone missing from the picture. Someone who had yet to join in the stories, the laughter, and the excitement. Leaning forward, Aqua gave the area another once-over, when she spotted a hooded figure seated at off to the far right, curled up in a little ball. It was strange how quiet she’d been, not once raising her voice and only occasionally peering at the others. From time to time, Kairi would step towards her, only for Xion to shake her head and turn the other way.

Well, that just wouldn’t do.

Perhaps it wasn’t her place, but Aqua just couldn’t bear to watch this poor girl isolate herself, least of all when her friends were just a short walk away. So, with her mind made up, Aqua strode her way over to Xion’s side.

As soon as Aqua sat down, Xion squeaked, reaching for her hood, and pulled it down even further. Behind, she heard soft little footsteps, and a quick glance over the shoulder revealed King Mickey himself.

“Say, what’s goin’ on?”

“Nothing,” said Xion, still gripping her hood. “I just needed some space. Having all these people here is kinda overwhelming…”

“I understand,” said Aqua. “This is all still new to me as well, Xion. I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many Keyblade wielders gathered in the same place.”

“Yeah. But it’s good. I’m glad we could all get together like this.” She laughed, though it was soft, restrained. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to worry anyone, but…”

“Xion.” Xiruk turned away from Roxas, giving her a deadpan look. “What’d I tell you before?”

“Friends are supposed to worry about each other. I know…”

“This really isn’t like you.” Frowning, Kairi moved a bit closer. “Are you sure you’re feeling okay? You’ve been getting a lot quieter these past few weeks, and—”

“I don’t want to talk about it.” She scooted away and swiveled around, still curled up like a ball.

Aqua knew these reactions all too well. The denial. The abrasiveness. The way she closed herself off before their very eyes, distanced herself from the ones who cared for her.

She knew this behavior all too well, from the way Terra distanced himself after the test to Sora’s frequent bouts of solitude.

Obviously, the circumstances were different, but the fact remained that this poor girl was trapping her heart in a safe, locking her feelings away. When Kairi, Xiruk, and Roxas all began to approach, Aqua looked up at the trio and shook her head. True, they were Xion’s friends, but perhaps she needed an outside opinion. At the very least, it was worth a try.

“You don’t have to say anything,” she said, smiling warmly. “But are you sure nothing’s wrong?”

Her shoulders rose, then drooped. “It’s nothing serious…”

Mickey’s brow creased, and he marched over to her, placing a hand against her back. She shivered at the sudden contact. “Now, don’t say that. I can tell just by lookin’ at ya that there’s somethin’ bigger goin’ on.”

She said nothing, only proving King Mickey’s point. So what was the proper approach? Xion wasn’t Terra, and she certainly wasn’t Sora, either.

Still, one approach came to mind.

“Why don’t you tell me a little about yourself?”

“Huh?” She took a quick peek over her shoulder before looking away. “But why?”

“Well, I’d like to get to know you.”

“But I don’t know where to start…”

“Hmm… Then what do you like to do?” That seemed like a simple enough place to start, but perhaps not as simple as Aqua had hoped. Despite her best efforts, it took an entire minute before Xion spoke up again.

“Well… I like stargazing. There’s this big clock tower in London that my friends and I visit all the time, and the view of the city’s so amazing. And, well… I like the sunsets, too, especially the ones in Twilight Town.” She took another look over her shoulder, and Kairi nodded, smiling from ear to ear. “I guess there’s just something about the sky that feels… special.”

Aqua blew a wistful sigh, shifting her focus to the surrounding stars. “I know exactly what you mean, Xion. In fact, before I became a Keyblade Master, my friends and I would spend every night under the stars…”

“…But they’re not here anymore, are they?” This time, Xion met Aqua’s gaze, and though Aqua couldn’t see her eyes, there was a distinct frown on her lips.

Aqua’s lips twitched a little, but she managed to keep a straight face. “Well, that all depends. Ven’s right here with us, even if you can’t hear him. And even if he wasn’t, I’ve found that you’re always connected to your friends, no matter how far apart you may seem.” To prove her point, she reached behind her back and held up her Wayfinder. “True friends have an unbreakable connection. Nothing can really drive you apart.”

Xion’s mouth took on a distinct o shape as she stared at the charm. For a moment, she started to reach out for it, but quickly pulled her arm back. With a gentle laugh, Aqua placed the charm in her palm, offering her reassurance.

“It’s all right. You’re more than welcome to take a look.”

With permission granted, Xion lifted the charm level with her face and shifted it around. Her lips thinned to a straight line, and her nose crinkled a little, and before long, a tiny smile began to take form. “It’s so beautiful… Did you make this yourself?” She passed it back to Aqua, who nodded in turn.

“It’s actually part of a set. Terra and Ven had Wayfinders of their own, but…”

Both Xion and Mickey’s heads drooped.

“Sorry. You don’t have to say anything else.”

“No, it’s all right. Like I said, we’re still connected.”

“It must be nice…” She rested her chin on her knees again. “But you know, that charm looks a lot like Kairi’s. Is that a coincidence?”

“Not exactly. If anything, Kairi’s is more authentic. We just didn’t have any seashells back home.”

“Well, I don’t think they have them in Twilight Town, either…”

“Actually, there’s a beach down there,” said Naminé. “I could take you sometime.”

“Hey, great idea!” Grinning, Kairi placed her palms together. “We could all go down together, and I could show you how to make your own good luck charms.”

Mickey tapped his foot, tail swishing. “Hmm. I wonder if Minnie’d like one of those…”

“It’s worth a try,” said Aqua. “And I could always teach you how to enchant them with magic.”

“It does sound pretty fun…” Xion’s tone was soft, a touch uneasy. “But I don’t know what’s going to happen, and…”

Ah, just as she thought. “Xion, are you sure you don’t want to talk about it? It may make you feel better.”

She wheezed another laugh. “Kairi used to say the same thing. Don’t bottle up your emotions, it’s okay to be scared, we’re in this together… I remember it all so perfectly. Like I was right there beside her.”

Kairi’s hands flew over her necklace, and she winced. “Xion…”

“I just want it to stop.” She shook her head, leaning her weight against the tree as she stood. “It’s not just memories anymore. That’s… That’s why I’ve been…” She stopped, rubbing her right shoulder.

“Gosh, is there anything we can do to make ya feel better?”

She slumped, then sighed. “I think I just need to take a walk…”

Both Kairi and Roxas took a step towards her, but they didn’t get far before flailing black wisps began coiling around her ankles, slithering up her legs, and swirling all around her body. Within mere moments, Xion was gone, whisked off by the darkness to parts unknown.

For roughly five minutes, no one said a word. Everyone from the King to Sora stared at the space where Xion stood. In time, Roxas shrank away, a pout etched into his features. A pat on the back from Xiruk only served to make him moan, as his body took on the appearance of a shriveling flower.

After a while, Aqua sat down on the steps once more. The others, for better or worse, tore their eyes off the now vacant cliff side. Sora and Naminé seated themselves next to Roxas, both of them wearing stiff grins. Mickey began pacing back and forth, casting occasional glances to Aqua and the tower, only to stop, sigh, and scratch his chin. Clearly his mind was elsewhere.

And then, to Aqua’s surprise, Xiruk turned away from his friends, straightened the collar of his coat, and began striding in Aqua’s direction. As he approached, she tipped her head back, for with her so close to the ground, the boy towered over her, easily six feet in height. His silver hair brushed against his shoulders, and his face lacked the child-like roundness she remembered from all those years ago. Seeing Sora was peculiar enough, but he still retained a certain boyish quality despite the shadows masking him from head to toe.

Xiruk, on the other hand, stood at the very edge of boyhood. The same undoubtedly held true for Riku.

Before she knew it, he was standing about two feet away, one eyebrow raised. Had she been staring without even realizing it? Shaking her head, Aqua scooted to the side, freeing some space on the steps.

Chuckling, he seated himself within seconds, one leg bent, his arm slung over his knee. The two exchanged glances, then looked the other way. His fingers rapped against his kneecap, while Aqua fidgeted with her charm. His coat served as a reminder of his former alliance, dragging her back to her encounter two weeks prior.

Perhaps this boy was the key. Perhaps he could help.

“So…” She cast another glance at her Wayfinder, brow creased. “You were part of the Organization.” Wait, no. That was a stupid thing to ask. Of course he was. He’d said so before, but—

Xiruk snorted, pointing at his coat. “Yep. Lucky me…” He had a dry sort of smirk lining his lips, though it only lasted for a few moments. “I probably shouldn’t complain, though. If it weren’t for them, I wouldn’t even be here.”

“True. And now you’ve escaped them, so I suppose that’s irrelevant…” She hesitated, tightening her grip on her charm. “But if it’s not too much to ask, could you tell me more about Xemnas?”

His eyes widened. “Uh… sure. What do you want to know?”

“Whatever you can tell me. His personality, his strengths…” His identity, though that went unsaid. Who knew if this boy had the answers?

“Hmm.” He leaned back, straightening his legs and pressing his palms against the steps. His eyes wandered up to the sky, and he blew a stray bang out of his eyes. “Geez. Well, one thing that always stuck out was just how much presence he had. The guy could suck all the energy out of a room with one look; that’s how imposing he was. Always cold, always calm, like nothing ever fazed him.”

words served to drive a nail through her heart. They matched her first impression perfectly, and though she was tempted to speak up, she took a deep breath and kept her mouth shut, allowing Xiruk to continue.

“But there was more to him than that. For starters, he’s smart. Too smart, like he’s already planned everything ahead, and we’re all just little chess pieces under his control. He’s got this way of making you feel powerful and totally powerless at the exact same time. He’ll build you up, make you feel like you can do anything, then crush you into tiny pieces and stomp all over you.”

He raised one of his hands, snapping it into a fist, which he slammed against his knee. His teeth clenched, his breathing grew sharp, and then, in the blink of an eye, all that pent up tension slipped away.

“But it feels so wrong, and whenever I see his face, it… hurts. Like I’m being led on by an old friend.”

“…Terra.” So he knew. He remembered. Or perhaps it was Riku who remembered.

Hands trembling slightly, she tucked the Wayfinder away and averted her eyes. When she felt a warm, gloved hand against her skin, her shoulders jumped.

“So… What was it like before? I mean, back when you first became a Master, and—”

Her lips perked into a half-smile, and she let out a hushed laugh. “It was different. The whole idea of self-taught Keyblade wielders was completely unheard of.”

He snickered. “Gee, so how do you feel about it? Are we like weird, Keyblade vigilantes or something?”

“More like special cases.” Her hand slid up to her pendant, and she blew a tiny sigh. “But before, every Keyblade wielder started off as an apprentice. The title of Keyblade Master was earned through years of careful study, practice, and dedication.”

“And how’d you guys get your Keyblades?”

“Well, Keyblades are passed from Master to disciple. If your heart is worthy, then you obtain the power of the Keyblade yourself. It’s how Riku got his.”

“Right… I remember that.” He tipped his head back, staring aimlessly at the sky. “So, what about me? The only reason I’ve got a Keyblade is because I’m his copy. Am I even worthy to wield it, or was it just some kinda fluke?”

She reached for his arm, then withdrew her hand, lips pursed. “Well, there’s one way to find out.” Extending her right arm, she drew in a short breath, and her Master’s Keyblade appeared in a white flash. With the weapon ready, she tapped Xiruk’s shoulder. “Hold this, and then you’ll know for sure.”

Xiruk’s jaw snapped shut, and he gulped. “And you’re sure it’s okay?”

“I wouldn’t offer if it wasn’t.” She chuckled softly, and before long, he took the Keyblade in his grasp.

His fingers curled around the hilt, and he stared at the weapon, head tipping to the side. “Nothing’s happening.”

“Then there’s your answer. If your heart wasn’t worthy, the Keyblade would have returned to me within seconds.”

“And it’s really that simple? Man, that’s something else…” Awkward laughter breezed out of him, and he passed her weapon back to her. With his hand free, he reached up and rubbed the side of his neck. “Anyway, since you asked me about Xemnas… What about Terra?”

“He’s…” Aqua’s lips twitched, caught between a smile and a frown. It was bittersweet, really. The proof stood before her, that she’d failed, that her friend was still lost, his body twisted into a monster. Still, it was a harmless question, and one that pulled her mind off the harrowing present.

So, what to say about Terra… “Well, he’s kind. Dedicated. Always looking out for the people he cares about. Ever since I first met him, he’d always dreamed of becoming a Keyblade Master, and he’d pour hours and hours into his training, until his legs gave out and his entire body grew sore. And even then, he’d push himself to keep fighting. To grow stronger…”

She could see it now. Beneath the stars in the dead of night, she remembered seeing Terra, shorter, far skinnier and without nearly as much muscle, lugging around a carved wooden Keyblade, his name etched into the handle. Despite his haggard breathing and sluggish footsteps, he had continued charging and leaping at giant, golden rings dangling on chains attached to rotating wood poles. He’d leap up, deliver a sharp swing that sent one ring spinning around and around the pole, only to unwind and strike his back, sending him wobbling towards the ground. But that was before, when they were both still young.

Best not to get too caught up in old memories. After all, there was still so much more to say.

“He was always the first to start cracking jokes to lift our spirits, and while he was a bit stubborn at times, he always acted with the purest intentions. Before our Mark of Mastery exam, Terra was so full of hope…”

“But that changed, didn’t it?”

With a gulp, Aqua forced a nod. “Something triggered his darkness during our test, and only I became a Keyblade Master…”

“…I see.” Xiruk pulled his hand away, using it to prop up his head. “But that couldn’t have changed him completely. Even if the memory’s a bit foggy, he seemed so proud when he met Riku.”

“Well, he does have a soft spot for children… or I suppose he did.” But using past tense was so depressing. So defeatist. How could she think of him as if he was no longer living? “I don’t know how much you’ve heard about the past, but my friends and I have all had our share of sorrows thanks to Xehanort. It was because of his plans that Ven is still sleeping, I fell into darkness, and Terra—”

“I know. Yen Sid told me about it…”

“Everything links back to Xehanort,” said Mickey, his voice low and sharp. He glared at the ground, arms straight and fists clenched. “What he did back then changed the destinies of so many people. Not just Terra, but entire worlds. And I couldn’t do anything to stop him…”

“Mickey—” Xiruk moved towards him, but the King shook his head.

“I wanna change that. I never really got the chance to know Terra, but if there’s a chance he’s got somethin’ to do with this mess, then I’ll do whatever I can to help save him.”

“But how’ll we know if he is involved?” said Goofy, arms crossed and head tilted. “All we know for sure is that this Xemnas feller’s pullin’ the strings.”

Kairi grinned, unsheathing her rapier. “Well, take away the X in Xemnas and you get ‘Ansem.’ And if Ansem is Xehanort… well, I think we’ve already got a few clues.”

More than a few. Regardless of who Xemnas was, there was no denying the fact that he was Terra’s body. Despite appearing older, the connection was clear as day. It seemed equally clear to the others, as she saw Xiruk grimace and shudder while Sora huffed and averted his eyes.

However, this was one line of thinking that Aqua could do without. Especially now, when they stood at the edge of the coming battle, more than half the Organization’s number remaining and so many worlds left unsealed.

So, Aqua’s face became firm, a just a hair away from a scowl, and she pushed away from the steps, chin up and shoulders straight.

“Thank you for your support, everyone, but it’s important that we remain focused on the task ahead. Right now, the Organization is our biggest priority, and as Keyblade wielders and defenders of light, we must put an end to their scheme at all costs.”

“But, Aqua—”

“It’s all right! I’m not about to give up hope, but I think it’s equally important to remain focused, no matter what the future holds.”

x.x.x

Once again, Xemnas found himself at the edge of the Altar of Naught, his eyes fixed to Kingdom Hearts’ radiant, blue glow. The sky was stagnant, save for the distant flickering of lightning over the skyscrapers far below. The air was silent, save for the roar of thunder. Tiny raindrops splashed his hair, his cheeks, and his shoulders, cold, perhaps, but a mere sprinkling at worst, while a light breeze swept across his bangs. Hardly enough to deter him from the soothing light of the moon.

“This charade has gone far longer than I ever anticipated, but fear not. They can delay it as long as they wish, but they cannot alter the course of their fates. Six Keyblades, a surplus of hearts… I wonder how many you can truly hold. How much power, how much potential? It is something we shall have to experience together, my Kingdom Hearts, and I am quite eager to see the results.”

He extended his arms and closed his eyes, basking in the surrounding warmth. Such power, such beauty… The perfect tool to achieve his goals, though the irony wasn’t lost on him.

After all, six was but a short step away from lucky number seven.

His hand slipped into his pocket briefly, and a dry smirk began to overtake his features. A quick glance over the shoulder revealed that he was very much alone, but the ears could capture what the eyes could not see. A slow, lumbering thud, followed by another, alerted him to another presence. So, dropping his arms at his side, Xemnas strode to the center of the platform and awaited his visitor.

The scarred face and unkempt blue hair made his identity crystal clear, and yet again, the number seven danced in circles through his mind.

“Lord Xemnas, I come bearing news regarding the Heartless.”

“And?”

Saïx eyed the moon for a moment, then continued, expression utterly calm. “We’ve managed to gather an army of several hundred in preparation for our next move, and we are ready to direct them toward our target at your discretion.”

“Excellent work. And have you received word from Zexion regarding Riku’s progression?”

“Ninety-four percent, if his estimations are correct.”

“Then the time has almost come…” He folded his arms, letting the raindrops slide down his face. “Continue gathering as many Heartless as possible. I shall alert you when it is time to move on to phase two.”

“Consider it done.” Saïx chuckled, and his lips spread into a broad smirk. With a directive given, he swiveled around and proceeded down the steps, hair flapping in the breeze.

Xemnas waited about a minute, watching the stairs on the off chance more visitors arrived. When no one appeared, he snapped his fingers and tore open a corridor just a few feet away.

The stage had all but been set. All the pieces had been carefully placed. There was only one thing left to do…

TO BE CONTINUED