(A/N): Huh... it's been what... 5 months since I last published something here? Sorry for all those out there still waiting for the next chapter of "Lost between a fairy and leafs" I've been so drowned in exams, homework and my job has taken it's toll on my free time, but I'm working on it, so don't loose hope, soon a new chapter will be up.
Enough with that, now to the current fic, first chapter of a new story from my second favorite fandom here, Kingdom Hearts... first attempt in one of this class, OC first person PoV, inspiration comming from FadedPhantom and her fic "Eclipse of the Heart", if you havent read it then you have to, it's just awsome like that... I can't really say much beyond that, just that I had fun writing this chapter, and I hope you also have fun reading it, beware of spoilers for there will be quite the lot of references to other games besides KH 2, which is the main timeframe this is developing in... so yeah, that's it for now... Oh, really, there will be either a long space between long chapters, or short chapters comming up on a regular basis, it will depend on how my time goes ok? with nothing else to say for now... ON WITH THE STORY! :D
Disclaimer: Nah, too troublesome to own Kingdom Hearts, I would be stressed with so many people asking when KH 3 will be out.
"Seems to me I can do in a dream almost anything… if only dreams were real"
Losing my insanity – Sonata Arctica (Stones grow her name)
Chapter 1: Destati
For this to make sense, it must be stated that – first of all, this guy is not exactly sane. Or really connected to reality most of the time. Considering he, in most of his 'sane' moments, has said that reality had harmed him far too much. But the few people who had the pleasure, or dismay, of meeting him might agree that he does not like to act his age. Not that he is old or anything.
Most of them also agreeing that it's fun to hang out with him.
His real name, which he has long ago forgotten, replaced with one he came up by himself. Burying the original one along with most of the significant memories of his life, up to that day.
This might explain his disconnection with, what most people call, 'reality'. Helping him keep the small traces of sanity he might still retain after all he had went through. Preventing him from becoming a serious threat to others, while also giving him the chance of living a somewhat... normal life.
The lesser, and most convenient, of two evils.
There is much more to be said about this character. But then, it would become boring and dull knowing all that information at such an early point. So, it would be better for you to discover it bit by bit as this... unique adventure unfolds.
As for the reason this small explanation was needed... Well, let's step into the story itself so you can find out, shall we?
The place you would like the least to spawn in, is an alley. Believe me. It is dark and gloomy. Most of the times –thankfully not this one– it is moist and smelly. And worst of all, it never leads to Narnia!
...
What? I know that in the movies it was a wardrobe, or a train station, but hey! What keeps me from dreaming? Even if I know it will never happen? ... Oh, ehhh... line break!
I still wonder, sometimes, why I talk with myself like this? As if I'm talking to a bunch of people listening every word I say. I also wondered... if perhaps it was so I won't feel alone? Although, I stopped caring, much, a long time ago. And now, it's like a second nature to me.
Anyway, walking through this strange, and strangely familiar, city – it seems I'm having one of those dreams.
Weird... I don't remember forcing sleep with stuff this time. Huh... well, it doesn't matter. Dreams like this one, are always a welcome change in the lovely hell my real life is.
Walking out of the alley I spawned in –the word 'appeared' is soooo overused this days– I made a mental checklist of anything that I could recognize of the place I'm currently in. Maybe then I can tell if I'm in a familiar location, or in a random place my messed up brain came up with.
Those tend to be quite... disturbing.
Big and tall clock tower in the middle of town? Check.
Strangely perfect-looking sunset that has not moved, even an inch, in the near half an hour I've been here? Check.
Trio of peculiar-looking and easy to remember guys –well, more like two guys and a girl– entering what I guess is their hang-out spot on a side of the alley I'm in? Check.
A slap to myself for being stupid enough to not notice that clear giveaway of where I'm in? Check.
Waving off the weird looks of the trio, after my self imposed punishment? Check.
Why am I adding everything I'm doing to a checklist? I have no idea.
There's only one place I know with all those... Wait just a second, ok?
"Guys, if you are going to keep looking at me like if I'm planning a mass murder, at least do it in a more subtle way... I'm having kind of an inner monologue here right now, and you are distracting me."
Good, that made them leave... at least from sight. Now, don't think that I have anything against Hayner, Pence or Olette. I actually like them, especially the chubby one.
You need to have guts to go out to the street with a hairstyle like that one. Even if it fits him.
Returning to the topic.. where I had woken up, right? Well, if you do not know by now then you're a terrible imaginary audience. Because it's obvious that this is Twilight town, ergo, Kingdom hearts... the second one maybe?
Man, this sure brings back memories! From when I was younger and used to live with...
Thinking about it, those are not that much of great memories. But the situation is cool nonetheless. I really loved the games when I was younger. And I still do, just that I don't have as much time as I used to have back then to spend playing.
Wow, that just sounded like something a grandfather would say... I doubt fifteen is an 'elderly' age, so I will refrain myself from speaking like that from now on. Promise.
Well, sightseeing right now seems like a terrific idea! There being an specific place I would like to visit. Along with a specific... sweet? Dessert? How would an Ice cream be called?
I know, I know... I don't have any munny on me, and I guess dollars are a currency that doesn't exist here. But.. there are some neat tricks you learn when you have to live alone while being under aged. Not being legal for me to work and all that.
See ya' on top of the clock tower. Time skip!
Well, that was a nice workout. Being chased by an angry clerk through a town you barely know –even if I have played the game quite a few... well, lot of times before– is quite thrilling if you ask me. And I got the sea-salt ice cream as reward! Right now, as you can see, I'm on one of the most memorable places of the later games. The top of the clock tower.
Sitting in the edge, I started eating the ice cream and watching the sunset.
The sight is simply beautiful. The eternal sunset and the cozy-looking town down there. The sound of train, as it moves through the different parts of the town, and the endless sea of grass that expands as far as the sight reaches on the outside of it... This really is a sight to behold.
The only thing missing to make this moment perfect is my Mp3. That song 'Lazy Afternoons' would fit perfectly right now... Wait, maybe if I look in... Aha! Here it is! Now to untangle the earphones... Oh great, footsteps.
Of course, someone else would also think it would be a great idea to come up here, when I want to be alone. There goes my personal moment with my ice cream. See? It is also crying... no, wait, it's just melting.
Now, just to be clear, I'm not whining... but I thought that no one else would come up here, besides... Ohhh, I wonder if-
"Hmm? Who are you? I didn't know other people would also come up here..." There was a pause in the speech as, I'm sure, the person's eye caught something else. "Is that a sea-salt ice cream?"
Ok, let's see... There's the long, spiky red hair. The black cloak. And the weird tear-like tattoos under his eyes, the green eyes... Heh, cool, I got to meet Axel.
Now, if Roxas is not here with him, then...
"Is it prohibited? If it is, then sorry. I'm kinda new in town and this place looked like a great spot to relax a bit. Besides, the sight is great from up here."
"Nah, don't sweat it. It's just weird to find someone else up here. Curiously enough I was also going to have an ice cream while enjoying the sight. Don't mind if I join you?" The redhead said taking a seat, I just shrugged nonchalantly.
"It feels more like I'm joining you. Like I said, I'm new in town, and you seem to do this quite the many times."
"You could say that… I guess." He answered with a shrug, already taking a bite from his ice cream. His sight fixed in the sunset, before giving me a side glance "But not many 'new' people arrive to this town. Or at least not many that I don't know about, so... where do you come from?"
"From a land far, far away." I answered with a smirk, at which Axel chuckled.
"Rather secretive, aren't we?"
"Well, your clothes don't actually scream 'local' too. So I would also think you are not from around here. Would you tell me where do you come from?"
"Touché." Was the smirking answer. "Guess everyone has a right to keep a couple of secrets for themselves... Meh, fine with me." He shrugged, before taking another scoop out of his ice cream. After that we both fell in a comfortable silence, finishing our respective ice creams and enjoying the twilight.
I couldn't help the occasional side-glance at the redhead. That longing expression on his face telling me all I needed to know about when in the timeline was this... And it made me feel kinda sad for him.
"Staring like that can be considered impolite."
"Nah, I've been caught doing worse things. A little staring you can deal with, I'm sure."
"Yeah, true... You want to ask something?"
"You could say that... You look sad, why?"
"Isn't it a bit too early to be asking personal stuff? We're not even on the first date."
"What? This isn't the first one? What a terrible host you are, making things look like different stuff."
"Aren't you the most eloquent little guy I've met so far?" He asked with amusement
"I'm not a little guy! But you know, you love me." I finished, batting my eyelashes at him.
In reply, he let out a laugh, a wider smirk –bordering on smile– appearing on his face as he turned to face me for the first time during all that exchange.
"You remind me of a... good friend I had."
"Let me guess, high school crush."
"Heck no! Just a friend that recently had to... leave."
"Huh... I see. That's the first time someone tells me that. Usually I'm a pest or an obnoxious brat, not many people seems to stand me. I wonder why?"
"I like your style kid… mind telling me your name, oh mysterious new guy in town?"
"Only if you tell me yours first, oh strange man in a creepy black cloak."
I never expected this to be so much fun!
"Fair enough, the name's Axel. A-X-E-L. Got it memorized?" He said while pointing a finger to his temple.
"Is it really?" He rose an eyebrow at my question. Should I start messing with him? Nah, I'll let him mourn... Or whatever he is doing up here with me, in peace for a bit more. I still have time to have my fun before the dream is over... I think.
"Now don't give me that look. It's just that, like I told you before, not many people seem to like me. For them I'm just some nobody they can have fun with from time to time before leaving me alone again..." The way his eyes sharpened, even if a little bit, at the mention of me being a 'nobody' to others was not missed to me. And I know he noticed that too.
"Well, of course that's my name, there's no reason for me to lie about it."
"Then don't mind me, I'm just paranoid like that... and you can call me Shinzo. Just like the rest of people do." I said while stretching my hand in his direction. Inviting him to a handshake, and smiling in what I hope is a friendly way. "Nice to meet you Axel."
The redhead eyed my hand for some seconds before shaking it.
"Nice meeting you too kiddo... and damn if that's a odd name. I mean, Shinzo? You sure it's not some kind of nick-name?"
"I questioned yours too, so I won't take offence in that. This time. And there are even weirder names out there. Like really, really odd ones." Okay, time to test waters... Nah, I've been considerate with him enough time. Jerk mode activated! "There are names like, hmm... Xion?"
His chuckle at hearing the name, told me, that all memory about her is gone from his head... That was sad. Because even if it's fun messing with other people in my dreams, there are some things I still respect from them. Like family and friendship... Funny, when those two are the first ones I would ditch in the real world.
Enough with the morals, time to have some fun.
"Or, I don't know... maybe Roxas?"
Axel's amusement was gone in the blink of an eye. Being replaced with slight shock, rendering me unable to hide the amused smirk that appeared at the sight. I almost started giggling when he noticed that the mention of that name was not just a coincidence. He tensed slightly and the question that came out next, even if sounded like his regular voice, had a certain edge to the tone.
"And do you know someone with that name, Shinzo?"
"Maybe, maybe not... Why the sudden interest in the topic? Haven't you heard of someone called Lumaria? That's as weird as it can get!" Would he try to harm me if I say what I have in mind? You would be surprised by how different one of these dreams can get from the original version... Meh, it would be worth it if I get to see a dumbfounded Axel. Never saw him like that in the game after all. "Do you know someone with that name... Lea?"
After a small gasp he jumped backwards –to the side with floor, of course, duh!– summoning his chakrams in the process. He looked at me with a glare that would have made others piss in their pants.
I've received enough of those in my late life, so I'm quite familiar with them by now.
With the most innocent look I could muster, barely suppressing the shit-eating grin that threatened to split my face in two, I managed to make my voice sound calm enough to speak without breaking down in giggles at any second.
"Oh, come on! Really? I mean, Axel, Lea, what's the difference? An 'x'?" When his gaze hardened even more I feigned recognition –more like mocked it– and continued. "The no-heart thing? You should know better by now, Axel. Roxas was also a nobody, and I'm sure even you questioned –at least once– if he really didn't have a heart... He even showed you could feel!"
"How you know that?" He asked through clenched teeth. Clearly waiting for me to say the wrong thing, or stop feeding him with information, to gut me out, or at least terribly maim me.
You would be surprised by how many 'child-friendly' places my mind has taken me, that are not as they seem... The factor that I'm crazy bat shit insane might also be a reason, now that I think about it.
"I know a lot of things about many things, you see. About you, your friends, that little group of yours... I didn't lie on the 'new in town' part, really, I've just arrived here. I'm sure you can get some answers from that."
"You also come from another world... or have been traveling through them for a while then."
"See? I knew you were more than a pretty face! And even if that's not the whole true, it has some truth on it, so congratulations on your guess! I would give you some candies as a reward, but I must have let them on my other pants..."
No chuckle came out of the joke, so he must be pretty pissed with me... Figures. That tends to happen when I get my fun. But then I had to sigh mentally.
I actually liked the guy –personality wise, don't you dare get the wrong idea!– so I'll blame the next thing I'm about to do on my conscience. And believe me, it's going to be something really stupid.
"You promised that you would bring them... sorry, him back from wherever he went, right? You miss Roxas, I get it. And if there's something I respect, that's promises. What would you say if I told you I know a way to get him back, other than sending poor Sora's heart straight to Kingdom Hearts? You know the boy's been through enough, even if he can't remember half of it, and I know you're not that heartless... eh? Heartless? You get it? Because you're a... oh, right. Bad moment for puns, sorry."
"And what would that 'method' of yours be?" He asked suspiciously, glare still in place. But if I was not wrong, then I would say that I caught something that looked like hope on his eyes... And nobodies were 'supposed' to feel nothing... Xemnas you sly fox.
"Does the name Ventus, or just Ven, ring any bells in your memories?"
First, his expression could have gone in a dictionary as a definition for WTF. Clearly not seeing any connection between our main topic and that sudden question. But a few seconds later his eyes would have popped out of their sockets, seeing how wide they had gotten, looking at me as if I grew another head and wings.
"T-that happened... i-it was... h-how you... Just who are you?" The redhead spluttered as his chakrams vanished from his hands.
"I've already told you, I know about a lot of things. But that doesn't matter at the moment. I guess you can make the connection, right?"
He nodded dumbly, like just realizing something so obvious he should have spotted centuries ago... I know that feeling.
I stood up dusting my black cargo pants. And man let me tell you these are my favorites. Really comfortable, makes running easier since they are a bit baggy. And the lots of pockets I personally sew on them, making only me aware of their existence, have proven to be useful more than once. They may look old and ragged, but it's what I have. And they serve their purpose, so they're fine with me.
"B- but Roxas was the boy's nobody!"
I gave him a deadpan look, while straightening my orange-and-black hooded jacket and my dark-blue t-shirt underneath.
"Sora has brown hair, Roxas had blonde. Sora was what, 14 when he gave away his heart? Roxas seemed to be about 16 when he appeared... sincerely I can't see any resemblance past the color of their eyes or the fact that they can wield the Keyblade."
"But then why-"
"TECHNICALLY Roxas was born from Sora, along with Namine, when he unlocked his heart to rescue Kairi. Keyword here being 'unlocked'. You'll have to remember that for the explanation that will come later. But right now, there's a certain trio I would like to know the whereabouts of... How long ago they woke up?"
"Earlier today, they might be gone by now. That guy Riku left not so long ago after leaving me and Namine alone... I came here to think how to-"
"Try and get Roxas back. Or to be exact, how to make Sora lose his heart again, am I right?" He just nodded "Wow, now you're being all cooperative out of nowhere."
"Don't see a reason not to. Apparently you know about this better than myself, and I was the one living through it."
"Well, not to brag about it but if you knew all I do... Anyway, now I don't know how to catch up with them, unless... Hey Axel, mind taking me to Hollow Bastion? He's bound to go there at some point after all... Are you even listening? Axel!" Damn, now he decides to go all emo on me! Just when I decided that since I'm already here, might as well play a bit with the rest of the characters too before I wake up.
"Uh-oh, I think I broke him."
"You didn't break anything kid. It's just that what you imply sounds so farfetched, but at the same time just makes so much sense..." Then an amused chuckle came out of his mouth, while he shook his head "And the funny thing is, that I'm buying every little bit of it."
Then he turned and signaled to follow him.
"You familiar with Corridors of Darkness?"
"Not really, seen a couple before but never actually used them."
"Here, put this on." He said tossing me a necklace "It has some kind of spell that will help you deal with the darkness. These robes are supposed to protect us from the darkness.. But you're not a member of the organization, and it's not like I can get back to the castle to get a spare one. So that will have to work for now."
Putting it on I didn't felt anything strange. But since he told me it only was to protect me from the darkness of the corridor, I guessed it wasn't supposed to make me feel anything out of it. So, I just waited until he opened the way in.
"You ready?"
"As much as I will ever be."
"Then just follow me, and don't separate. Believe me, getting lost in the realm of darkness is not a nice experience." I nodded eagerly, following his lead as we both stepped inside. Me totally enjoying this dream so far, so I'll continue this once we get to the other side.
Time skip!
The people, few as they are, I talk about my dreams have always criticized the fact that I tend to rush things most of the times. Stating that instead of enjoying the experience, I take things too lightly –'Just like a game', would be their exact words– and lose the chance of doing something memorable out of them.
Well, I always told them that I do enjoy the approach I take with them. And that it's funny to see the face of whoever I meet, when I say something that was supposed to be a secret. Or have no knowledge about, or stuff like that.
Besides, once you reveal that kind of stuff, it's easier to befriend and/or keep them in check. Depending on the situation, because you know something big about that person, so there's not really any point in keeping stuff hidden. And that, forces the interaction –usually on my side, most of the times– to be like one between old acquaintances. Even if they know shit about me.
Just like I once read somewhere. 'A controlled amount of chaos can do wonders to cover greater news.' Or something like that, I'm sure you get the idea.
Why I'm saying this now? Because for the moment I'm telling Axel what I can remember from 'Birth by sleep', mostly from Ven's perspective, while traveling through the corridor.
By the way, darkness is sticky when it's solid, sticky and gooey to be exact... Gross. I wonder how Sora is to touch when in his Anti-form.
Wait, Axel is waving a hand in front of me.
It's hard to keep both sides happy, you know? So you'll have to wait for now. Dream, fictional characters first. Real but non-existent viewers, I'm talking to later.
"Sorry, kinda spaced out trying to remember more about what I was telling you. This old brain is not what it used to be." Axel just rolled his eyes and sighed while scratching his head before talking again.
"So, in the end all is fault of this Xehanort guy?"
"Master Xehanort." I corrected him "The real somebody of Ansem, seeker of darkness and Xemnas, your beloved leader." I chuckled at the face Axel made when I said that. "The Xehanort that arrived at Radiant Garden during your youth, and became the apprentice of Ansem the Wise, is actually Terra. The friend that Ven was looking for, possessed by the old coot. And it must be noted that Terra is a good guy, just a bit misguided."
"Just like that guy. Riku... who actually got the ability to wield the keyblade from Terra..."
"Yup!"
"And Sora unlocked the ability to wield one, half because of him and half because the missing part of Ven's heart that is sleeping inside his heart. Because Master Xehanort fractured his heart when he extracted all the darkness from him in an attempt to create the χ-blade. Also giving birth to this guy Vanitas who is the pure darkness of Ven's heart. And forced Ven to shatter his own heart to prevent the χ-blade from being completely forged and finally get rid of him, right?"
"Yup!"
"Huh... why are you telling me Shinzo? Not that I'm not grateful. But I'm on the organization, or at least was... aren't you afraid of that?"
"Nah, I know stuff that interest you. So I trust you'll keep me safe." I shrugged, ignoring the sweat drop from Axel. "Besides, I know you are a good guy. Even if you were a total jerk with Sora back at Castle Oblivion. Which ironically, taking in count that fact, means you were being a jerk to your own best friend. All that 'two sides of the same heart' thing there. But you kinda helped him too, helping Namine in the end."
"I know it should surprise me, how you know so much about Castle Oblivion... But with all the stuff you've already dropped on me I'll just ignore it."
"Just a couple of itty bitty details more. First, Castle Oblivion was once called 'The land of departure'. Try researching about that sometime, you would be surprised by what you could find. And second, the whole 'I wish to give your hearts back' thing, your beloved leader has been feeding you, is a complete and utter hoax. Something ol' Xemny came up along with Xigbar and Saix. Maybe... I'm not really informed on that department, just speculations, given that those two are already vessels and everything. Creepy yellow eyes included."
"Hold on a second there! Saix? ... Isa? H-how is that possible?"
"That's... something I don't know, really. But whatever you knew about him is long gone... 'Lost in the folds of darkness and blah blah blah, the heart will sleep forever and I-don't-know-what'... Or was it different? I can't remember. But the idea is there, sorry... If you wish to blame someone though, blame Xigbar. I always do that, and most of the time I'm right! So... there's that."
"Heh, yeah, sure."
"Look, I may not have boarded the topic in the most empathic way. But... I'm not good being nice with others regarding harsh topics. Myself not being used to receiving sugarcoated bad news. You needed to know that, so I won't say I feel bad for my choice of words. Sometimes harsh is the best way... and that was totally not an Innuendo!"
"No, no, I get that... I knew something was wrong with him for a long time. But this is... it's just..." And then he shook his head, and smirked sadly. "Nevermid, we have no hearts after all. It doesn't matter."
"You actually believed that? Come on! You've been acting all 'older brother' mode, with the living proof of that being false, for a bit over a year! How can you still believe that? Or is it that you don't want to think otherwise? Then why are you so desperate for bringing Roxas back?"
He just kept silent, still walking. I took that as my cue to keep pushing on.
"True, you may have no hearts. But you do feel... Call it echoes, memories, brain farts, whatever name you are comfortable with, but those are real... Or was your whole friendship with Roxas fake?"
"Of course not!"
"There is your answer then. And Xemnas made you lot think otherwise, well all.. except Xigbar and Saix, to fulfill the true goal of Organization XIII."
"True goal?"
"Told you that 'recreate Kingdom Hearts to give your hearts back' thing was a hoax... But that will be a tale for another day. First wrap your head around all this, go to your closest non-somebody friend, and GTFO of the world that never was."
"That won't be easy. Not many people knew Ven, and the ones that do remember him, won't take it nicely if I reveal their plan to the remaining members of the organization."
"Then warn the members you think are intelligent enough to not play their game, and act as a double agent. If questioned why you suddenly decided to return with them, tell them that you'll find a way to bring Roxas back. And better for him to have some support back in the organization once he does return. That, and besides, there's this interesting guy you are 'befriending' because he has some interesting information. I'll know how to give some backup to your cover."
"Wow, you're quite the swift liar... And also quite careless with your own safety."
"Life teaches you things, others would consider wrong, when you have to survive on your own." I answered with a shrug. "So most of the times, morals and that stuff becomes more like background noise than actual life rules... But I do help old ladies carry their groceries and cross the streets."
Axel just chuckled once more. In good humor this time. Before extending his arm in front of him and opening, finally, the exit from the realm of darkness.
"Well, this is it. Trip's over... How will I know when to contact you again?"
"We will decide that, along with Sora, Donald and Goofy. All this stuff is to get Roxas back after all, he deserves to know about it and have a say in this. And for that you need to meet him, again, and this time in good terms... Just be grateful that he doesn't remember what you made him go through in Castle Oblivion along with Marluxia, Larxene and Vexen. At least not yet. And that he's too kind for his own good, and will surely forgive you once you explain him your situation. So come on, out with me."
With that, I started walking out of the portal into a place that looked like the general area where Merlin's house was. And damn if the place is bigger in real life than in the game.
"And who named you the leader?" The redhead asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Lea, dear... who, of the two, has enough information about the other to write a book and make a best-seller out of it?" I deadpanned not even turning to face him. His sigh and the footsteps behind me, being all the agreement I needed.
Heh, got him whipped.
It's funny, how things seemed to be precisely timed here. Because just as I was about to turn the corner, Axel still grumbling about wise guys making me snicker, I almost greeted someone around my age, with clear blue eyes, brown spiky hair and a red, yellow and black outfit, with a head but. And being inches from each other's faces I did the most intelligent thing my brain came up with.
"If you dare kiss me I'll strangle you with your own tongue, the world order be damned."
Sora jumped backwards in an instant. Clearly startled by my statement, and summoned his Keyblade getting ready to attack me.
"W-who are you?!"
"A guy who happens to be looking for you." I answered nonchalantly.
"Looking for me?" He echoed my question, lowering his stance a bit while rising an eyebrow.
"Geez, I know you are slow sometimes Sora, but really? Are you sure you're totally awake right now?" He blushed in embarrassment, surely having been told the same thing before.
"I-I'm not slow! Who are you anyway? I've never seen you before!"
"Y-you don't... remember me?" I asked faking surprise "B-but we are friends! W-what happened… all we went through… Castle Oblivion... Oh, that's what happened... Figures." I said dropping my voice. A plan already forming in my head to get on Sora's good side.
"Castle... Oblivion?" he totally lowered the keyblade –still Kingdom Key I noticed– while looking utterly confused. "That name sounds... familiar..."
Bingo.
"Sora.." I walked towards him. And made it look as if about to put a hand on his shoulder, just to 'think better than doing it', letting it fall by my side. "We were friends, remember? It's me, Shinzo."
"Shin-zo?" he asked. To himself this time, like trying to see if something would happen were he to say my name himself.
"Yeah... where are Donald and Goofy?" As if on cue, the two 'animated' animals turned the corner running. I jumped to them excitedly, half to keep the play, and half because it was really exciting to finally meet them like this.
Axel might have been great. Sora might be the protagonist. But I grew up watching these guys' cartoons every Saturday morning on TV.
"Donald! Goofy!" I shouted in glee after hug-tackling them to the floor. The duck squawking nonsense the whole time, and Goofy first being confused, but then shrugging and patting my back in a friendly way.
Best. Dream. Ever.
"A-hyuck, sorry but... who are you?" The dog asked. I released them in an instant like touching something really hot, a betrayed look in my face... Ohh.. I should get an Oscar for this!
"Y-you too guys? You really don't remember me?" Think about dead kittens.. Think about dead puppies. "But you said, before entering those pods to sleep, that you... I knew I should not have kept my hopes up all this year."
"How you know we were sleeping?" The duck asked narrowing his eyes.
"I was there with you!" They looked a bit put out by the outburst. "Sorry... it's just... We made a promise there, that no matter how much we forgot, we would not forget about each other. Or the important things we were looking for. Like you two looking for your king, or you Sora, looking for Riku to return to your island, back with Kairi..." I'm sure the tears in the corner of my eyes were a nice touch. Because after that last statement, while the Disney duo looked in deep thought, Sora looked like he just killed someone.
I felt really uncomfortable lying in this way to Sora. This being the first time I met him, and him being one of the few people I would like to befriend because of his sunny personality. But I can't just pop out of nowhere and talk to him the way I would, that's just asking for problems with others.
I might like messing with others, but I'm not suicidal enough to go against worlds backing up the brunette.
So having this opportunity present itself to me, I had to take it. Not wasting opportunities is one of the many things life taught me the hard way, no matter how bad it looks like, because if you don't, other will. And you don't know when another chance will present to you. Eat or be eaten.
"You... you know about Kairi and Riku?"
"Of course! You told me yourself! Riku got lost in the realm of darkness after closing the door to Kingdom Hearts. And since then, you've been looking for him and the king so you two can return to Destiny Islands, where Kairi is waiting for you both. And for you to return her that lucky charm she made with seashells before your world was lost to the darkness, because you promised it! You... you even told me that I could return with you to the islands since I was alone, wandering on the road between worlds when I met you..."
The trio were left gaping once I finished my little explanation. Totally at a loss for words after the accuracy of my claims, I'm sure. It was time then, as they say, to go for the 'coup de grace'.
"I know that Namine said the price for your memories to be restored was to lose the ones you made in Castle Oblivion, that was her fault after all. And even some prior to that since they were all chained in your heart, and that included me, but you were so confident you would not forget everything... and I let myself feel that same confidence... what a fool."
"Thank Namine." Donald muttered slowly, eyeing me carefully. But not with distrust this time, but more like a mix between uncertainty and curiosity "That was what was written in Jimini's journal when we woke up... You mean we can't remember you because of something she did to us? Then why should we thank her? Were you someone bad?"
"Me? of course not! We are... were friends." The trio flinched at the correction. Good. Now to save Namine's honor. "Jiminy wrote that because Namine wished to correct what she had done. Marluxia, Larxene and Vexen forced her to change your memories. I think they wished to use you to take over Organization XIII, but you protected her anyway. Because, even if those memories were fake, that was what you had at the moment, and your heart told you it was the right thing to do..."
"Then why you weren't sleeping with us? Were your memories not gone too?" Goofy asked, sounding really curious about that... Quite perceptive huh? Who would have thought.
"My loss was not as great as yours. On one hand, there's the hero of the Keyblade, who saved the worlds from falling to darkness once. Along with the Royal Mage and Royal Knight of Disney castle, home of Mickey Mouse, the only active Keyblade Master left in the worlds. While on the other, there's me, a nobody who tagged along in the road, with a past better left forgotten, I'm sure. And with no relevance to others... Can you see my point?"
They looked sad for that piece of information. That made me feel sad too... The last part was true after all. And that made this last part even more convincing, since I was really half-tempted to go along with it.
"It may have been fun while it lasted, but I know when I'm no longer needed... I guess, it's better I leave now." With that said, I turned and started to make my way to the corner. Where Axel should be still waiting for me.
"Shi-Shinzo, wait!" I heard Sora call out for me and I feigned a sad sigh.
"Yes, Sora?"
"I don't kno- I don't... remember... you, but what you have just said, all that you know... Only my closest friends know all that, like Donald, Goofy and Jiminy." Since I said nothing, he sighed and I felt a hand rest in my shoulder. I turned to face him, and there he was, looking torn, his head turned to a side. Looking shamefully to the floor, not daring meet my eyes, and a pang of guilt hit me... I knew he would feel guilty after all I said. But to be this innocent, so trust-giving... What was wrong with my conscience today, making me act all goody-dooey with people in my dream?
"Sora..." At least now he lifted his gaze. And even if he still looked guilt-stricken, he was looking at me "It's neither your fault, nor you guys." I said with genuine concern for them. "Don't get so worked up by that. No frowns or sad faces, remember?" The Disney duo gasped hearing that, and after a small nod to each other they stepped next to Sora.
"Maybe we can't remember ya'," Goofy said. "but that doesn't mean we can't be friends again, right?"
"Yeah!" Was Donald's input. "It will be like meeting each other again, but easier since you already know us."
"Guys... you don't need to-"
"We are friends, and we are a team." Sora cut me –how rude– with such intensity in his eyes that it made me gulp. "And what you just told us was enough to prove that... We can't remember what happened in Castle Oblivion, but I know, deep in my heart, that what you are telling us is not a lie." Well, technically –I think that's the word of the day– it was true... Or at least most of it. "So Shinzo..." He extended his hand in front of me, with one of those smiles that would made Maito Gai proud. "Do you want to be part of the gang again?"
I froze. Was that it? Really? Him, being himself, making things so easy... he's so trusting of others... I mean, true, all I said was accurate enough to make the trio trust me, but any other could have done the same knowing the right things. And even after what he went through with Riku...
"I would love to." I finally said, shaking Sora's hand firmly. He didn't knew about all the bad things out there. Besides power hungry overpowered evil guys trying to take over the worlds.
Not that those are less evil, but they are less... crude than what true life has to offer. The ones he has to face here being an example – you wouldn't expect to see Xemnas murdering people to his heart's content... Heh, you get it? Heart's content, because he's a... oh, really, no time for puns... Sorry.
Funny, how I feel so protective of Sora out of nowhere. Just meeting him and him not being real beyond this dream, but maybe... maybe because he reminds me so much of-
"...-nzo! Hey Shinzo, you there?"
"Oh? uhhh... Xigbar did it!" Was the answer by default, when I noticed the fingers being snapped in front of my face, much to my subsequent embarrassment. I was not kidding when I said that I blamed Xigbar anytime I had the chance.
Other usual 'guilty' people were Jiraiya, GlaDos – even if she is not exactly a person. And Sephiroth, because that guy is evil, no matter from what angle you look at him.
And I just heard someone facepalm nearby, surely Axel... Hehe, oops?
"Xigbar? Who is that?"
"Some guy you'll probably meet later on, don't mind me for now."
"You sure are a weird one." The oh so trusty royal mage said eyeing me curiously... Didn't we just had a touching moment back there? What's wrong with this guy?
"Hey! It's impolite to stare like that! I've already told you that- oh, wait, you can't remember... Well.. I'm not exactly sane per say, but also not crazy enough to be a danger to others." Most of the time "Let's just call it 'socially acceptable kind of crazy' for now, fine?"
The trio eyed me for some seconds, before Sora just shrugged and put both hands behind his head without a care in the world.
"No prob' with me there. After all we've been through in the worlds, that doesn't bothers me at all."
"A-hyuck, We are all kinda failing a little bit up here too." Goofy said rolling a finger next to his temple. Prompting Donald mumbling something that sounded like 'speak for yourself', but with all that squawking I wasn't sure, so instead of dwelling on that I decided to do one of the most gratifying things that I could imagine myself doing here.
Mess with Donald.
"Gee Donald, you've totally regressed with that speaking problem of yours." Said duck gave me such a cold glare that could have frozen hell over. While the other two guys –and even Axel I think– snickered or snorted. I gave an innocent look at Donald, before rising an eyebrow. "What? Oh come on! Don't give me that look, we've been over this already, it was you who asked for help after all!"
Interesting fact, Donald does turn red when really angry. And you can't make head or tails of what he says –or more like squawks– so whoever told you it's humanly possible to understand this duck's rants was lying. Terribly. You should demand him.
"See? that's what I'm talking about." I went on, ignoring the rant as if nothing happened. After a while Donald stopped screaming, seeing that I wasn't minding his noise, and instead he opted for giving me another murderous glare. Improved with red, blood shot eyes –surely caused by the blood pressure increase I caused, heheh– while Sora and Goofy covered their mouths to try and muffle their laughs, but with the way their shoulders were shaking, totally betrayed that purpose.
Donald also gave them the same glare, before huffing and crossing his arms over his chest, turning his back to us indignantly... Well, I had my fun, time to apologize.
"Come on, my feathery friend, you know it was just a joke... Man, you sure have a strong liver." He huffed again, but his beak twitched slightly upwards, so I pressed on. "Hey, let's make a deal. If you forgive me here for this, the next time we meet with Daisy I'll help you out. After all you've told me about her it's clear she has a... strong personality, so waddaya say?"
He opened his eyes and gave me a side glance over his shoulder, and in return I gave him a toothy smile and a peace sign with a hand, so he only sighed and turned to us again.
"Fine, I'll let it slide for now." I whooped and gave him a half-hug with an arm.
"See? was that so hard? Geez, you need to relax a bit more dude, that blood pressure would thank you, I'm sure." Done with that I released the duck and turned to the group leader, aka Sora.
"Where to now, Herr General?" If the brunette recognized the cool –in my mind– german accent, he did noting to show it.
"We were heading to Merlin's house to meet with the gang when we found you. So I guess we can all head down there now."
"Oh.. um, well, you see..." I started, scratching the back of my head nervously. The idea of being around more than four guys... err... one guy, a nobody and two talking animals, sounded not quite appealing to me.
Don't know if you already noticed but I'm quite the secluded guy. So if I'm not plotting against, or escaping from, a large group of people I'm quite... shy? Well, not really. I can handle myself quite well, but it's really, REALLY, uncomfortable.
At least for me.
I'm sure that evil duck caught my nervousness and I swear I heard him chuckle maliciously. That unique funny but evil chuckle only he can do. Before he grabbed my wrist and started dragging me in the direction of Merlin's house.. I guess.
"Oh, come on!" He squawked delightfully. I swear I could hear the smirk on his voice "You will love to meet Leon and the guys there."
"Yeah Shinzo, you are a friend after all! They'll totally like you!" Sora cheered. Already running ahead of us along with Goofy, who directed me a look that I could only translate as 'sorry' before facing forward again, leaving me at the duck's mercy.
Turning my head I saw Axel there, leaning in the wall with his arms crossed over his chest and an amused smile on his face. I gave him my most heartbreaking puppy eyes pleading him for help, but he only shrugged it off before pointing his wrist with the other hand. As if signaling a watch there, and waved goodbye before entering a corridor of darkness, the amused smile not leaving his face even once. Traitor.
But how could my ultimate pity technique not work with him? Has he no... Oh, yeah, he doesn't.
It took just a couple more minutes for Donald to finally drag me all the way to the door of Merlin's house. Only then did he release my wrist, thankfully –the duck had more strength than he let on, the skin where he had his death grip was bruised– just in time for me to stop Sora from opening the door.
How rude, he didn't even try to knock.
"Uhh, just a second, there's something you might want to know, or more like remember actually..."
"Mmm? What is it?" He asked letting go the handle of the door. If I played this right then a lot of future awkward situations could be avoided, starting with that one waiting just behind that door.
"How to put it... err... I might already know all the friends you made, except for Kairi, but I've never REALLY met them personally."
The guys in front of me tilted their heads in unison, with the same confused expression in their faces. Sighing, I proceeded to try and explain the plot of 'Chain of memories' in a short, easy and understandable way for them. All the while covering the fact that their adventures are actually a videogame.
Yeah, piece of cake.
"You see, Castle Oblivion was one of the weirdest places I've ever been. Lots of floors, lots of white, creeeeeepy... And while Namine was being forced to mess with your memories, and ours by extension, the organization members shaped each floor according to the memories of the worlds, you have been before, so it would be easier for them to do their stuff. That meant, we revisited each world you went though, friends and villains alike."
"So you mean that..."
"Yup! all the way from Destiny islands straight to World's end, every friend you made and every villain you faced, I did too... kind of."
Well, World's end was not included. But I needed the cover if by mistake I spilled something I wasn't supposed to know.
"So ya' kindda already know about our fellas here and in the other worlds, but haven't really met them." Goofy quipped in after my short explanation. Huh, he kinda gets things fast.. who would have thought.
A light of realization shone in the eyes of the other two, while they made an 'oh!' motion with their mouths.
"You really need to tell us what happened in that place."
"Believe me, I would love nothing more than clearing that blank in your head. It would make explaining sooo many other things easier. But right now, I guess you really want to see your friends again. I'll tag along with you so I can explain things later, even if I'm not all into it at the moment."
Sora nodded and gave me a friendly smile. While Goofy patted my shoulder, and even Donald, the ever walking temper bomb, smiled. Then did something that took me off guard.
Extending his hand –or should it be wing?– in front of him, he then nodded to the other two, who did the same thing as him. Putting their hands over his, and turned to me like waiting for me to do the same.
If they plan on doing what I think they are planning to do, I'm going to have a heart attack.
"Well, we may have done this before… but like you said we can't remember," Sora started, seeing that I wasn't complying with their silent petition anytime soon. "but it wouldn't be official if we don't do it this way, right?"
"I… I d-don't… you… this…" For the moment, my mind was officially a blank sheet of paper. I mean, true, the goal of all this was to make them trust me and treat me like a friend. The usual.. but this? What they are trying right now is, through a quite simple act of… trust? Commitment? Whatever it is, to form a bond.
I shouldn't be reacting like this, I'm aware of that. This is just a dream after all, nothing that happens here is actually true, but still… I've fled from bonds for so long… My 'friends' being nothing more than people to occasionally hang out with –them being aware of that– but never the real deal. So the simple thought of bonding with them, as imaginary as they are, had this feeling of reality that is almost overwhelming.
"Come on, we're waiting for you… haven't we done this before?" Sora's voice cut through my thoughts. That was when I noticed, that the way they were smiling at me wasn't like the usual ones I get. A bit strained, like expecting me to go nuts on them. Or filled with pity for seeing me so lonely. It was… just friendly, no secret reason behind. No undertone of weariness… nothing. Just simple and –at least for me– strange willingness of getting to know... me.
"I…" I gulped. "No, we haven't."
"Then all the better! This way it can finally become official!"
That did it. What the heck! If I'm going to befriend someone, they why not the dream version of the closest thing I've ever had to a role model? And yes, I'm aware that he's around my age right now, and no, I don't care.
Placing my hand over theirs, I called my name, 'making this official' as they said.
"Shinzo!"
"Sora!"
"Donald Duck!"
"Goofy"
"All for one, and one for all!" I whispered at the same time Sora cheered their motto, sure that I was beaming at the moment. Not caring in the slightest how stupid I might have looked.. because –even if only while this dream lasted– I finally had friends! As cheesy as it sounds.. that made me so fucking happy!
"Come on, the gang must be waiting for us." Sora said at the same time he opened the door of the house and stepped inside. Breathing deeply to keep the excitement in check, I followed the other two inside.
For good or bad.. dream or not. At that moment, I had become part of all this mess. And like with anything that managed to catch my interest, I would do my best to make it work for the best while it lasted.
But enough with the serious crap, that's not like me at all! So, I slamming the door behind me once the other guys finished with their greetings inside the house they were forced to focus on me. I waved my hand in a greeting, trying to make it as friendly as I could. Just like a child!
"Hiya there! I'm Shinzo, nice to meet ya'… I'm a good boy!"