Author's Note: Hello everyone, Reflecting Knight here posting his first story. Well, where to start with this oh so ambitious project of mine. Well, that would be to give a huge thanks to several of the authors who have inspired me and ended the writer's block that has lasted for far too long. They including Redeeming Endeavor, Paopu Fruits and Sea-salt Bars, and 0Wishful-Thoughts0. I'd encourage everyone to check out their stories, because they're very well written with a great mix of humor and drama.
Onto my own tale. Well, Ever since reading through some of their works, a 120 chapter work (as it stands) has risen within my mind, and its a tale I believe may indeed be worth telling. As such, I guess I've been working this past week or two to get things started. Hopefully updates for the remainder of summer will be pretty quick, although when school starts up, I'd say still expect maybe a chapter every week or two. This project is thankfully something I'm really excited about, as the ideas literally never cease to flow into my mind.
As it stands, this story is planned to be told in four parts, each of which focuses on three characters. I'll state now that Sora, Tidus and Squall are the key focuses of this first part, and I'm still working on who I'd like for the remaining three (Sora will be a focus of every part, while I'd also like to look at Roxas in Book 2. Otherwise, still up in the air, and I'll have a poll on it posted soon!) Anyway, this will allow for three different narrative perspectives, although the story will still be told chronologically. To give people an idea of what I'm talking about, I'll be posting the first three chapters (pretty much what I've written so far) up today.
About done with this note, so I hope you all enjoy the very first installation of Legacies of Sea and Sky! Check out the poll in my profile to vote on favorite pairings and the like. Reviews are greatly appreciated, and I'd gladly take any sort of criticism I can get.
Disclaimer: Just going to state this once, but I don't own Kingdom Hearts of Final Fantasy. Of course, you should all know that...
Chapter 1: Endless Days
Perspective: Sora
"Sora, you need to get up. We promised everyone that we'd meet with them at seven thirty sharp. You don't want to be late on the first day of school, do you?"
Even as my best friend stood over my bed, saying something about the nightmare known as school, I continued to enjoy the fluffy goodness that was my bed, the covers held tight against my body as I attempted to drift back into dreamland. Such a pleasant place, dreamland…
"Seriously Sora, if you don't get up soon we'll be late. Then again, that's nothing new for you, is it?"
That's nice Riku. I don't mind being late. Actually, I rather enjoy sleeping in late. It lets me spend more quality time with my beloved pillow. Maybe if you let me sleep in late today, then I'll do…whatever it is you want. I continued to enjoy the rest that I had been denied the past few days as I shifted around in my bed. Seriously, spending a whole week of summer vacation going to the beach every day is fun, but it can sort of tax-
"Sora, Kairi's in a bikini and she's come to wake you up."
"WHERE!" A certain boy vanished beneath my bed covers as I shot forward, eyes darting around my room for any sign of the red-headed beauty. Of course, the only woman with red-hair (and for that matter, the only woman) in my room was standing at the door, and well, I don't know if I'd classify her as beautiful.
Wait, maybe that's a bit harsh. I mean, I guess my mom looks good, and dad certainly thinks she's beautiful, but then again she's my mom and…
You know, that just ended in all kinds of awkward. Forget I said anything.
"Once again you prove yourself the master of getting my son to wake up, Riku. I really should start paying you for your services." Mom flashed a smile at Riku (who had just succeeded in freeing himself from my super comfy sheets) before turning back to me. "Alright Sora, you know what today is."
"The day I get that puppy I've wanted since I was nine years old?"
Oh crap. That did it.
"…for the last time, no!" I didn't even realize I had leapt back upon my bed as my mom's face became a storm of irritation, frustration and…constipation?
Actually, I don't think that last one really applies.
Still, she didn't exactly look happy as our blues eyes met. Mom can be quite scary when she means to be.
Hell, even Riku looked scared shitless, and he's supposed to be the calm, cool, collected one.
Not that I'm not all of those things myself.
"How many times do I have to tell you that I'm allergic to dogs? It just isn't going to work out, Sora! And for goodness sakes, it's been six years since then! I don't think that dog quite qualifies as a puppy anymore."
"I don't care! Dad said you and he would 'discuss' it! You've had six years to come to the right decision!" I wasn't letting this issue go. Oh no way in hell.
Every birthday when my parents asked me what I wanted, every Christmas when they told me to write a wish list to give to Santa (who, for the record, is totally real. Seriously, I totally staked out four years ago), that puppy was the first thing on my mind and the first thing out of my mouth. My mom WOULD relent, and I would have that fluffy ball of joy all to myself.
"Umm, Sora, not to interrupt or anything, but today is the first day of school and all."
No Riku, it isn't okay to interrupt. Nothing can stop me now from getting mom to adopt that adorable little puppy and-
Wait, what?
"That's right Sora! Now get in your new uniform and go face the day! I expect to hear all about it when you get back!" Mom laughed as she walked away with another victory over me in the puppy debate. It wasn't fair! All she had to do was escape without the promise of the cute little animal and victory was hers. Riku, I swear I will pay you back for-
"Wait! Today's the first day of school!"
"You really are pretty slow, Sora." Riku gently pat my right shoulder as he walked past me, a grin on that stupid smug face of his. "And technically, your first day at high school."
Never in my life had I wished so hard that I could enter my beloved dreamland once again. Never in my life.
Starchy-white shirt that sticks to your sweaty flesh and takes weeks if not months to finally break in: check.
New backpack that your mom forced you to buy after oh-so-cruelly throwing away my "filthy" companion from my elementary and middle school days: check.
Obnoxious silver-haired best friend who constantly has to remind you that he's already going to be a sophomore: check.
Yeah, high school is going to suck.
"Sora! Honestly young man, do I have to straighten your tie out for you?" The principal of my new school was a dead man. Seriously, having to wear a dress shirt is bad enough, but a tie? It feels like a stupid noose around my neck!
O-Okay mom, no need to take that so literally!
"M-Mom! Not so tight!" I struggled for a moment against her before finally breaking away. Geez, I don't know where the hell mom gets the idea that ties need to be so tight, but if she's always this way about them I don't know how the hell dad's survived for so long.
"I don't want you looking like a slob, Sora. Then again, judging by the state of your room maybe I should let that side of you show through a little." The bright smile that I've been told I've inherited from her faded into an angry frown as my pigsty, err, room was mentioned. That's just like mom, always finding ways to make me feel bad. Well, not always, but you get the idea.
"I said I'd clean it up this weekend, mom! Geez, be a bit patient!"
"Sora, you made that promise a month ago!" I don't know where the heck the idea of the fiery redhead came into existence, but man does it fit my mom at times. Well, I guess her curly hair is more of a coppery color than red, but still! When she gets mad, she gets mad. Hell, I'm a few inches taller than her and I still get scared.
"C-Come on Mrs. Asami, I'm sure Sora will clean it eventually." Note to self: Mom scares even Riku.
Mom simply rolled her eyes as she threw up her hands in defeat. Now if only we had been discussing my beloved puppy…
"Alright, alright. Sora. This weekend you WILL clean your room. Otherwise you're grounded for a month. Is that clear?"
"Right! See you later mom! Come on Riku, let's go!" I hate to say it, but my first day of high school sounded like heaven next to continuing this argument with my mom. Seriously, she can get scary!
"See you later Mrs. Asami. Don't worry about Sora, I'll show him the ropes." Riku just had to call back to mom and earn more respect points with her, didn't he? Seriously, you'd think the guy was trying to butter her up or something so that he could ask her on a date…
Damn it, why does everything I have to say about my mom end up going that route!
As I stepped outside I found myself glad to be greeted by the sight of the morning tram as it rushed along the busy Twilight Town streets. Its powerful horn blasted into the air as it pulled up to Market Street, the stop closest to my home. Usually after hearing how damn loud that horn is I'd be annoyed, but it did a rather wonderful job at getting my mom's words out of my ears.
Don't get me wrong, I love my mom and all but…well, there are times…
"You forgot your lunch." Before I could even blink a brown paper bag was deposited into my open hands. Riku grinned as he took a few steps ahead, the silver-haired boy not looking the least bit uncomfortable despite the fact that a cotton prison much like my own ensnared his upper body. Seriously, that thing is hell to wear! "So, are you scared?"
"Hah, yeah right. I mean, high school isn't all that different from middle school, right Riku?"
The response I received was…not quite what I was expecting.
Riku started to laugh…and laugh…and laugh until I started to get uncomfortable. Seriously, there are times when I have to wonder if Riku isn't seriously some kind of super villain masquerading as my best friend. It can get pretty creepy.
"Oh Sora, you naïve little freshman."
Okay Riku, there are so many things wrong with that statement that I have no choice but to point them out! One: naïve? Really? I'm usually the one to question how things are!
Although there was that time when I believed that guy was actually giving away free money.
And then there was that other time when Riku convinced me for three days that I was "The Chosen One," whatever the hell that means.
And then there was this morning when he totally said Kairi was in a bikini and…
Okay, maybe I'm a bit naïve at times. But little! Hah! Not really…except next to Riku who is nearly a head taller than me. But a freshman? Oh yeah, that's right…
You win this round, Riku. But I'll have the last laugh!
"I'm sure you'll do alright though." Riku had already started to walk ahead of me, a smile on his so-called dreamy face. Seriously, I just don't get why everyone finds him attractive!
I mean, let's look at Subject A for a second. Six feet tall, silver hair that falls past his shoulders, turquoise eyes. I mean seriously, I'd mistake Riku for a chick before I started to find him attractive…that didn't come out right either, did it?
Alright, Subject B. Five feet seven, kickass brown spiky hair that defies the laws of gravity (seriously ladies, no hair gel involved!) and blue eyes that are said to remind people of the ocean? What's not to love!
Well, apparently something. Riku's the one who gets asked out on dates every ten minutes, not me.
I decided not to think about the subject any longer as I studied our all-too-familiar surroundings. I live in a nice house near the south-end of Twilight Town. Although seriously, I don't get why it is called Twilight Town at all. The place is huge! I don't know what qualifies a city, but I'm pretty sure whoever was making the distinction was horribly drunk when he came here. Seriously, we have trams, trains, even skyscrapers!
Oh, and a really kickass clock tower above Central Station. Perfect for first dates. Not that I'd know anything about that.
Not yet at least.
"Alright Sora, ready to lose again?"
Oh Riku, you can talk with all the pomp you want, but you know I'm going to win this time.
As I looked upon Riku's stretching body, I found myself also starting to begin my stretching routine as I reached down towards my toes. Since we were little, Riku and I have always been a bit…competitive you could say.
"Best five out of nine!" A seven-year-old me cried as Riku once again trounced me in an arm-wrestling competition. I remember that well if only because my arm felt like a noodle for the rest of that week.
"C-Come on Riku! O-One more re-match!" A ten-year old me said before collapsing on the beach after once again losing a race to my best friend.
"Alright, this time there won't be any distractions!" I said last week as we sat together at the Paopu Hut, Riku having just won our third milkshake-drinking-contest in a row.
Yeah, Riku usually kicks my ass at this kind of stuff.
But this time things would be different! Who cares that he's won the majority of our competitions? The fact is that this race is going to be mine! I'll add it to my collection of victories over Riku and never let him live it down. Just like the other fourteen times I've won.
Yes, I have counted my victories over Riku. No, I'm not pathetic, shut up.
"Alright…ready….go!"
"Another victory for me…heh, you did pretty well this time though, Sora…almost had me at that last corner…"
I really wished that Riku would just shut up as I tried to catch my breath. Seriously, how was I supposed to know that Twilight Town High was so far away from my house? Well I mean, sure I've visited once or twice and all that to see Riku, but I've never gone directly from my house.
Also, note to self: maybe it wasn't the best idea to race Riku in my brand new, now sweat-stained shirt. Good thing I put on deodorant this morning!
"Here. Drink up." A moment later and a bottle of water was in my hands, Riku already guzzling down his own as he leaned against the tall campus fence like some kind of badass.
Maybe I've been a bit harsh on the guy. I mean, Riku has been my best friend since…well, ever I guess…and he really does have a good heart.
Just does he really have to be better than me at, I don't know, EVERYTHING!
"Thanks." Ah water, how refreshing you can taste at times! I downed half the bottle within seconds (Riku rolling his eyes the entire time) before, well, dumping the rest upon my spiky head. Man that felt good!
"Sora! Riku!"
And that felt even better! To hear at least.
"Kairi!" My eyes were instantly drawn to the teenage girl who waved us over. Oh Kairi, how I've missed your voice, your pretty red hair (a darker shade than my mom's), your beautiful, amethyst eye, your cute little mannerisms, and especially the kindness you show me.
I should probably mention now that I've been crushing on Kairi since I was eleven. That was the age when everything went from "Eww, cooties" to "Humana Humana Humana…" Of course I've known her way longer than that, but I guess that's the time when teenage hormones started to kick in.
"About time you two arrived. Let me guess, you kept Riku up, didn't you Sora?" Oh God, don't pout like that, Kairi…it's too much for me to take! I was the first to reach the girl as I raced over, Riku walking behind me with his hands in his pockets. God, does this guy TRY to be as cool as possible or something?
"What do you think, Kai?" Riku asked, as he moved past me, giving Kairi a…hug! What! No Riku, hands off! That is not cool! I thought we were pals man! You can't just-
"I missed you too, Sora!" Wait, now I had arms wrapped around me…and well, they weren't rough or anything like Riku's…and Riku didn't have red hair…
It took me a few seconds to register that Kairi was hugging me, although as soon as I figured it out (Riku tells me it took six seconds) I found myself returning the gentle embrace. Man, I really could get used to that.
"Geez Sora, you're soaked! Up to no good again?" Kairi asked after pulling away, a mischievous smile in her eyes. Kairi might act all innocent (okay, so she's as innocent as an angel), but that doesn't mean she doesn't enjoy fun things too.
"Just had to cool down after my race with Riku."
"Lose again?"
"…" I did not feel the need to comment, although I felt a bit of heat gathering in my cheeks as I turned away ever, ever so slightly. It was enough to get Kairi to giggle though as she pointed at my face.
Okay Riku, fine. That loss was worth it to hear her irresistible giggles.
But don't get cocky just yet! My fifteenth victory will soon be mine!
"So, how was vacation, Namine? Was the whole family cruise thing as boring as you guys thought it would be?" Umm, Riku, are you high? Her name is Kairi. I mean sure, both Kairi and Namine have something to do with the ocean, but-
Oh right. Namine. You know, Kairi's twin sister and all that. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against the blonde or anything! Just when I'm around Kairi I…kind of sort of forget about other people. But yep, Namine was standing behind her sister, the shy girl giving Riku a nod even as a blush started to paint her cheeks. Geez, Namine can be pretty cute.
I mean cute cute, not sexy cute. Not my lovely, amazing Kairi cute!
"It was actually quite nice, Riku. Thanks for asking. How about you and Sora? I hope you two had a most pleasant summer as well."
Geez, does Namine actually act so…polite?
Probably not a question I should have had to ask after knowing the twins for about a decade, huh?
"I'd say so. I mean, I'm still trying to get some sand out of my shoes from a certain prank a certain asshole played on me, but overall it was great." Oh come on Riku, that was in early August…wait, he still hasn't got all the sand out? Oh man, Tidus and I really outdid ourselves…although why doesn't Tidus get any of the blame?
"You know Sora, you don't look half bad all dressed up?" Wow Kairi, you mean it? I mean-
Woah.
I've been told I'm a bit slow, and well, maybe that can be a little true at times. I hadn't even looked at what Kairi was wearing before, but man…maybe I don't need to kill this principal guy after all.
I mean, plaid skirt that doesn't even get close to her knees? Check.
Cute white blouse that does quite a good job at showing off how much Kairi has 'grown' recently? Check.
No, I'm not a pervert.
"Y-You look great too, Kai! Y-you too Namine!" Both girls smiled at my compliment before turning towards the school gates. For whatever reason, everyone had agreed to meet up half an hour before school actually started. Something about talking about how our summers went, although part of me wished I could just return to dreamland and think about Kairi in her cute new uniform.
Then again, if I was still in dreamland then I wouldn't know that Kairi had the new uniform or that she looked so awesome in it...
"Hey! You guys not 'gonna say hi or anythin' yah?" Oh! Easy with the hair, Wakka! I…actually, I don't spend anytime stylizing it. My hair is just so kickass that it'll always stay spiky.
"Geez Wakka, we don't have to be so tough on the little freshmen just yet." Riku teased, earning him a pout from Kairi and a shy little smile from Namine. I'd have done something too, but man Wakka does a good headlock/noogie combo.
"Guess so, but you know Sora. Have to be a bit rough on the guy, yah? Otherwise he doesn't take anything seriously." Great. I'm so glad to know that all of my friends can't help but generalize about me. Thanks Wakka, I really appreciate it.
"Alright, alright! Let go already!" I couldn't help but mess with my hair as Wakka released me, the slightly tanned sophomore grinning as he stepped away. "Nice to see you too, Wakka."
"Don't forget about us!" How could I forget about you guys, Tidus? A moment later and our ever increasing group was joined by Tidus and Selphie, two other friends that I've known way back since Elementary School. Despite looking a bit winded (and was that a bruise on his arm?), Tidus looked as happy as ever, his blonde hair shimmering in the sun. Selphie appeared more than happy (and quite cute) as she quickly embraced Kairi and Namine with a squeal, the brunette making the twins promise to catch up on their vacations after school.
"So, what's on the agenda for today anyway? We don't really have class already, do we?"
"Well, sort of. First you all gotta go through initation." Wakka was quick to reply to my question as he grinned. "After that you go meet with most of your teachers, get to know what you're up against. It ain't too bad, yah?"
"Relax Sora. Now I know you aren't the best at school, but just put in a bit more effort than usual while you're here, okay?" Riku laughed a bit even as I glared daggers at him. Or swords. I really wish I could impale that stupid as face of his with a blade and send him to-
"Hello everyone. Sorry I'm late." Oh hi Roxas. Glad to see you're here.
No seriously, I felt myself smiling as my cousin appeared, the young spiky blonde haired boy (Note: his spikes are nowhere near as awesome of mine) circling us on his skateboard before quickly coming to a halt. His blues eyes were a lot like mine, although there was a reason for it.
Some people mistake us for twins, although that's wrong on two points. First of all, I'm not his twin: Ventus is, and he goes to school on the other side of town for…well, some reason.
And secondly, I'm not his brother but his cousin. Although truth be told, there's a reason that the resemblance is pretty strong. His dad and mine were brothers, having married a pair of sisters actually...yeah, it's a bit weird, but then again Aunt Sara is pretty awesome, so I don't mind.
Also, did I just catch Namine blushing a little bit? Huh.
"So Sora, how was the beach yesterday? Sorry I couldn't go with you all, just Hayner and I wanted to check out a few things around Twilight Town." Oh come on Roxas! Do you still believe that Seven Wonders of Twilight Town crap? And people call me dumb for believing in Santa (who is, as I've already said, totally real).
"It was pretty awesome. Wakka and Riku make good partners in beach volleyball." I couldn't help but grin as Tidus rolled his eyes while Selphie stuck her tongue out at us. That's right, we totally owned you guys. Deal with it.
"You wouldn't have done so well if it had been an even match!" Selphie said, the girl glomping Kairi as my beloved simply chuckled. "Kairi! You and Nami need to get back from your family cruise sooner next time!"
My cousin just laughed as he rolled his eyes. "Well, should we get going? I mean, I hear all of us freshmen have to meet together in the auditorium today." A few murmurs of agreement arose from the rest of us as we nodded, Riku and Wakka going their separate ways as they grinned at us.
"Well Sora, are you ready for this?" It was Kairi's turn to speak as she looked at me.
"You know it Kai! Alright everyone, let's do this!"
"…this sucks."
Alright, so it's the first day of high school for me and I've already been separated from all of my friends. Well, I can certainly say we're off to a good start.
Yep. Nothing bad at all.
I mean, who'd have thought that there were so many people in our class. Honestly, one moment we're all walking to the auditorium and the next there's a surge of people behind us. I felt like I was being carried away by a wave or something. Well, next thing I know and everyone I know isn't there anymore. I think I saw Tidus like, eighteen rows back or so, but man, I thought we were all going to stick together!
I sighed, sinking down into the nearest empty seat I could find. You'd be surprised by how few of them there were.
"Hey, Sora right?"
I turned in the direction of the voice that was…well, sort of familiar? Seriously, I know I had heard it before but I just couldn't put a face to it.
Then again, even when I looked upon the speaker's face I wasn't too sure I recognized him.
The boy before me looked about my age and stood just a bit taller than me. He had blond hair cut in a short style and pretty flashy gray eyes. Oh, and he looked like he worked in a tanning salon. Seriously, I don't think someone's skin is supposed to look that oily and perfect. Still, I think I knew him from somewhere.
Wait, did I just describe a guy's skin as oily and perfect?
First the thing with mom, now this…I think I have issues.
"Yep, that's me. And you're…" Come on Sora, you can do this. Just put a name to that face already. Umm…Vash? Tosh? Basch fon Rosenburg? No, that name is way too silly…
"It's alright. I don't think we've really talked much before. It's Vaan." I smiled at the boy as I shook his hand. He certainly seemed nice enough as he took the one spare seat next to me. "So, have a nice summer, Sora?"
"I guess you could say that. How about you?"
Before Vaan could reply, the noise of terrible microphone feedback echoed throughout the auditorium, eliciting many moans and grumbles from my fellow classmates (Vaan included). All eyes were on the stage now as a man with short-silver hair tapped on the microphone once again.
"Good morning, everyone. Welcome to Twilight Town High School." Having sat through more school speeches than I could count, I knew this was the appropriate time to start clapping. Apparently this fact wasn't lost on my other classmates, for soon enough applause was filling the room. The man continued when things had died down. "I'm Firion Samand, Vice Principal here. It's an honor to welcome all of you here on behalf of the staff of this proud establishment."
While I'm sure what Firion was saying was important, I couldn't help but zone out as I looked past him to the other man who stood at his side. Silver-white haired reached down to his upper back, a rather serious look on the man's face as he studied us. For a second, I even thought his eyes had met my own, although he made no indication of seeing me.
Seriously, was a smile too much to ask?
"…and with that I'd like to introduce the Principal of Twilight Town High School, Cid Lufaine." More applause followed as the man I had been watching now took up the podium. So, this was the guy responsible for the blessing of the girl uniforms and the curse of the boy uniforms, huh?
Yeah, I could totally take him if I felt like it. Just that would sort of get me expelled and then mom would kill me.
"It is an honor to have you all here. I won't waste time repeating what Mr. Samand has said and will get straight to business. As most of you may know, Twilight Town High School has established a very good reputation when it comes to academics, athletics, clubs and the like. I know that I can count on all of you to keep that going strong." Wow, the man actually smiled as he was met with cheers and applause once again. I wasn't expecting that from him.
To cut an otherwise uneventful speech short, Mr. Lufaine went on talking about how we had all been assigned lockers that we had a good half hour to find. Inside them we'd find our schedules which we were to follow for the rest of the semester. I had to groan as Mr. Lufaine insisted we go meet our teachers and spend some time adapting to our classrooms.
Great, because that's really what I need. More time with the people who are going to fail me.
"Ready to head out, Sora?" Oh crap, I had totally forgotten about the boy at my side. I gave Vaan a quick nod as we both stood, setting out to locate our lockers. You think they would have sent us a letter telling us which locker was ours. How the hell were we supposed to-
Oh wait.
"Sora! A letter arrived from your school!"
"I'll read it later, mom!"
I never did force myself to read it, did I?
After a good fifteen minutes of searching (Vaan helped too), we were able to locate the locker that was my own. Thankfully someone had been merciful enough to put post-its on the lockers stating the owners. Only one problem: I had no clue about the combination to the lock.
"Really Sora, when you get a letter from the school you're supposed to take a good look at it. I mean seriously, they usually obtain important information." Stop telling me things I already know, Vaan!
"This sucks…how the hell am I supposed to find out where I need to go now? We only have ten minutes before class starts and I have no idea where I even have class!" Man was I tempted to bash my head against the locker…
"Wow, looks like you're in a real pickle, huh?"
Vaan and I quickly turned around to look around at the…the…
Okay, I've got nothing.
The man standing before us not only had an EYE-PATCH over his right eye, but he also had a few nasty looking scars on his face, a silver-streaked ponytail of black hair, a creepy ass yellow left eye and a rather menacing grin on his face. He wore the uniform of what I assumed was a janitor, a nametag simply stating "Xiggy" stitched into a pocket on his shirt.
Oh, and he talked like a surfer dude…seriously, I have nothing.
"Umm, I guess?" Vaan and I stepped aside as 'Xiggy' leaned forward to inspect the lock, the older man tapping a finger against his chin.
"Well, guess I don't have much of a choice, huh?" He asked. A moment later and my lock fell away in two halves, a massive pair of 'scissors' in Xiggy's hands (seriously, those things were huge! And was that blood on them!). "There. No problem for me, kiddo."
"Oh…well, umm, thanks…any chance I could get a new lock though?"
"Pfff. As if. You're on your own for that one." And with that, the mysterious janitor left, never to be seen again.
Okay, well that last part is a lie.
Still, what Xiggy had done had been enough. Opening my locker did indeed reveal a sheet of paper on which were printed room numbers, names, class titles and the like. And according to the list, my first class was in the 400's. "Hey Vaan, where are you off to?"
"Me? I've got World History with Mr. Maechen. Ugh, I hear that guy is a total bore. What about you?"
"Says here I have Algebra with a Mr. Harvey. Can't say I've heard anything about him though."
"Well then, see you later. Maybe we can sit together at lunch." I nodded at my newfound friend as we parted ways. Well, at least things were starting to look up. I mean, I'm not really quite sure what happened with Xiggy, but at least I have my schedule and an idea about what the heck I'm supposed to do.
Thankfully, climbing three flights of stairs to get up to the fourth floor wasn't nearly as daunting as it sounded. Before I knew it was I was in front of room 402, the door already open.
"Welcome. Please have a seat." Wow, do teachers really look so…young? I mean, I was used to the boring bookish men or old ladies who gave up on getting husbands to go teach some bratty youngsters.
The man before me was nothing like any of that. Mr. Harvey looked almost pleasant to be around, and his voice was even a nice change from the murmurs that some of my past teachers had spat out. His white hair fell down to just below his neck, warm blue eyes locking onto mine as he smiled.
Don't let anyone know I said this, but while Mr. Harvey is kind of cool, I could have totally mistaken him for a girl at first glance.
I was quick to follow the man's instructions as I took a seat, my eyes scanning around the room for any familiar faces. Nope…no luck so far…
"Is this seat taken?" To my left stood a girl who reminded me quite a bit of…Kairi. While she didn't fill out her uniform nearly as well as the lovely redhead (again, I'm not perving!), she was of about similar height to Kairi. Even her hair was in a similar (if not slightly shorter) style, although the black was a start contrast from Kairi's red locks.
Really, I'd think she was Kairi's twin rather than Namine if I didn't know any better.
"Oh, um, nope! Go ahead!" Smooth Sora. Act like a complete idiot next to your desk mate. Still, the girl simply smiled as she took her seat, opened her backpack and took out a notebook. I realized I should probably do the same.
"I'm Xion. Xion Kikul. My family actually just moved here last month. It's nice to meet you…" At least this time I didn't have to be embarrassed for not knowing the girl's name: there was no way I could have known.
"Sora Asami. Nice to meet you too!" The two of us shared a smile before Mr. Harvey walked to the front of the class.
"Alright everyone, time for introductions. I'm Cecil Harvey, and I'll be teaching you all about the wonders of algebra. Don't worry, it's not as hard as it sounds." I don't know what it was about the guy, but Mr. Harvey just seemed really likable. Maybe it was that contagious smile that he wore on his face or something. Most of the girls in the room certainly seemed to be swooning over him, although I guess they didn't catch that he was wearing a wedding ring…
Wait, a guy this young is already married?
I decided not to bring it up as Cecil continued to tell us a bit about himself before he began to discuss our course and its requirements. When I heard that tests and quizzes were only 20-30% of our final grades, I literally let out a sigh of relief. Apparently Xion found it cute because she giggled for a few seconds. Seriously, I hate exams…at least homework you can work on it with some help. No such luck when it comes to tests…
Unless you happen to be sitting next to a- no Sora, resist temptation! You already got caught that one time in seventh grade! We don't need to repeat that.
"Alright everyone, that's it. I hope you enjoy the rest of your day."
Wait, what?
"Class is over already?" I was surprised to hear myself say that of all people. Usually I'm the first one rushing out the door, but even this seemed a bit abrupt. I mean, all we did was introduce ourselves, listen to Mr. Harvey talk…no math?
Wait, what am I saying? Best. Class. Ever.
Mr. Harvey smiled at me, even letting out a slight chuckle as he watched the rest of my class pack up. "Today's the first day, Sora. All classes are short so that you can get to meet all of your teachers and frankly get acquainted with your surroundings. I mean, you wouldn't want a pop quiz first day, would you?"
Mr. Harvey's words had a lot of sense to them. I think I'm going to like this guy.
"Ms. Branford, when do we get to start dissecting frogs?"
"Ms. Branford, I'm pretty against cutting open something that was once living."
"Ms. Branford, how about an owl pellet? Do we get to open up one of those?"
"…alright. Please raise your hand if you think that the only purpose of Biology is to dissect animals or…oh…"
Was it a bad thing that I had raised my hand to? Well, at least I wasn't in the minority.
Once again I found myself in a class without any of my friends, and once again I found that high school teachers were a million times cooler (and in Ms. Branford's case, hotter) than any of the teachers I had had before.
We were a good five minutes into class when Ms. Branford had opened the class up to questions given our limited time. Now I don't know why, but I get the feeling that she's starting to regret that.
"Apparently I should have gone over the course syllabus before I asked if anyone had any questions." I have to give her props where it's due: she makes a really good recovery.
Seriously, mom could learn from her.
"There will only be one dissection this semester and it will indeed be dissecting a frog. Krile, if you are against that then I can arrange for an alternative project for you to do."
The blonde girl who had protested cutting open a frog (seriously, what is wrong with her. That sounds AWESOME!) simply nodded as she looked down at her syllabus like the rest of us.
Ms. Branford seemed a bit more at ease now that the dissecting question was off the table. "We'll be starting with microbiology and studying those little organisms that are too small for the human eye to see. For next class I'd like everyone to read the first ten pages of our textbook. Extra credit for taking notes!"
Not even my middle school teachers gave out extra credit. Damn, this high school stuff is awesome. Suck it Mr. Norg! Stupid fat mother-
"Ms. Branford, could we dissect a cat? Or maybe an amoeba if we're doing micro first?"
It was in that moment that I suddenly felt very sorry for my Biology teacher. So very, very sorry.
Third period saw me in P.E., and for that I was thankful. Goodbye shitty shirt that I will never get used to wearing, and hello white Tee! Seriously, haven't studies proven that you study better when comfortable? If that's the case, then why the heck do we have to wear those stupid shirts?
Or rather, why do guys have to wear those stupid shirts? On girls I can totally accept them.
Phys Ed brought another breather in that I actually knew people in my class.
"So Sora, how have your first two classes gone so far?" Selphie was bouncing with energy as she asked me this question. No, seriously. She was like a little bunny rabbit bouncing on her heels like that. "Mine have been awesome! English with Mr. Desch was pretty nice, although have you seen Mr. Harvey? Sooo dreamy!"
Dreamy? I almost mistook him for a chick!
Wait…that's best something that remains unsaid.
"Yeah, Mr. Harvey is pretty cool. I have him first period and Ms. Branford second?"
"How is she? I have her after lunch." It was my cousin who now spoke, Roxas smiling as he joined the two of us in the gymnasium along with the other forty or so kids who had gathered. Seriously, gym classes always have way too many people in them. How am I supposed to get all the super awesome attention that I need when our teacher can only focus on one of us?
"Well, she's seems really sweet. Just don't bring up and questions about dissecting around her. Trust me."
"If you're all done chatting then perhaps we can get started." I didn't know that voices alone could make girls swoon, but damn if all the girls in the class (Selphie included) didn't let out those little heartthrob sighs as our teacher made his presence known.
It was only when he stood before us that the long blond haired man (seriously, what's with all the teachers having long hair today? Even the guys?) turned to look at us. "Hmm, I've seen worse. A few of you look fit enough, but it looks like I'll have to whip the lot of you into shape."
"Geez, who does this guy think he is?" I couldn't help but nod as my cousin whispered into my ear. Seriously, talking down about-
"I'm Kain Highwind, your instructor for this course. And you are?"
Damn. This guy has seriously sharp hearing. Several of our classmates parted around us (Selphie, you traitor! His voice can't be that hot!) as Mr. Highwind stepped forward, arms crossed before his chest. "Well?"
"R-Roxas Asami. Sorry." At least Roxas didn't start anything on the first day of class. He's usually a sweet kid, but man when he loses his temper, he loses it.
Mr. Highwind nodded as he stepped away now. "Very well then. Roxas, I'd like to tell me your weekly exercise routine."
Oh crap. This guy takes phys ed seriously. I mean seriously, back in middle school it was just play dodge ball or jump rope for fifty minutes. Right then I knew High School Gym was going to be quite different from anything we had experienced beforehand.
Upon hearing Roxas' weekly routine (which came to a surprise to even me. Seriously, aside from skateboarding he goes to the guy three times a week? Props, cuz), Mr. Highwind nodded. "I see. It is good to see that some of you know the importance of a healthy body. However, there's always room for improvement. Roxas, I'd like to propose a challenge of sorts. Show me how high you can jump."
A jumping contest? Umm, okay. I guess that's alright? Roxas simply nodded as he approached the jumping board which hung near the locker room. A moment later and his hand slammed against the board, a few girls letting out "ooohs" upon seeing how high Roxas had jumped.
"Not bad. Now it's my turn." And with that, Mr. Highwind just…vanished.
Seriously, one second he was kneeling down as if preparing to jump and then…gone. Clearly I wasn't the only one surprised, Roxas and Selphie both looking quite confused as he looked around the gym. "Well?"
Ho. Lee. Shit.
Atop the highest of the bleachers (which, mind you, nearly touched the ceiling) stood Mr. Highwind, arms still crossed as he looked down upon us. It was that single moment in time that cemented every girl in my class' crush on Mr. Highwind as well as my own undying respect for the guy. He had just gone from slightly creepy to utter badass where I was concerned. Hell, even Roxas couldn't help but gape as Kain landed upon the floor without even looking phased by the fall.
Alright Mr. Highwind. You've got me. Teach me all your secrets!
"Kairi!" Oh, what a treat it was to see her again. Her beautiful hair blew in the wind as nature kissed her beautiful features. Slowly, she turned to look at me, our eyes meeting in an eternal embrace.
Okay, I suck at sounding all poetic. Sue me.
Not to mention I'm pretty sure the oh-so-natural wind was actually just the cafeteria AC.
"Sora!" At least Kairi seemed enthusiastic to see me as well as she waved me over to the seat beside her. It was an invitation I was only too willing to accept. "So, what do you think so far? Too much work for a lazy bum like you?"
Hey! I'm not lazy! I just like to sleep a lot. And I'm certainly not a bum! Otherwise I'd be walking around in a beanie asking for spare change or something.
And trust me, no beanie can contain the sheer epicness that is my hair.
"Hah, get real Kairi! I've actually really liked it here so far. I mean, only intro classes so far, but all my teachers are either really nice or TOTALLY BADASS!"
"…" The silence that filled our section of the cafeteria lasted about five seconds before conversations resumed. Crap, I had already made a fool out of myself, and on the first day no less. Well, so much for-
Kairi started to giggle as she looked at me, the girl's cheeks going pink as she laughed at my stupidity. And it was adorable…seriously, I could listen to Kairi giggle for hours…she has the sweetest of voices. Just one of the million things I love about her.
No, I'm not going to list them all.
"S-Sora! G-Geez…you always say th-the stupidest things!" You say that, Kairi, but as long as I can make you laugh, I'll be more than willing to make a complete idiot out of myself!
"Well, looks like my two favorite freshmen have survived. And here I was starting to get worried." A certain silver haired boy who just happened to be my best friend plopped himself down across from us as he smirked. "So, everything go alright so far, Sora?"
This time I was sure to keep my voice down as I went into a bit more detail about my teachers and all that had happened so far. Kairi's eyes widened as I told her about Mr. Highwind, although Riku simply nodded.
"I had Mr. Highwind and Ms. Branford last year myself. Never had Mr. Harvey though, although I'd heard he's pretty good. So Kai, how about you?"
"Well from what I can tell history is going to be a complete snore fest. Mr. Maechen just went on and on about himself and the history of Twilight Town…and well, I also had Mr. Harvey for math. Oh, and I just got out of Chorus. Ms. Chere seems pretty nice."
Riku nodded even as he tore into his sandwich, the boy proving quite hungry as he ripped through the bread and meat. I was tempted to do the same to my own before remembering that Kairi was always a stickler for table manners. As such, I decided just to eat normally and not pig out like my best friend.
Thankfully Riku swallowed his meal before speaking again (seriously, I do not need flecks of saliva-covered meat splattering on the table). "Well, I've got Mr. Garamonde for my English class, and that seems pretty good…except that he talks like he's still living in the Medieval ages. Unlike you two I have a full day, so I've only had two classes so far, the second being Physics with Mr. Highwind."
"Wait, what! Mr. Highwind teaches both Gym and Physics! Is he a superhero or something!"
Riku just chucked at my outburst. Damn, at this rate he's going to make me look stupid in front of Kairi! "Right, you wouldn't know. Actually I'm talking about Cid Highwind. Pretty sure he's a distant relative of Kain though. Both are pretty cool, except man could people not be more opposite."
Before I could enquire further (did I just use the word enquire?), Tidus, Wakka, Selphie and Namine arrived. While the latter quietly told her sister about her classes, the former three instantly started to tell us all about what they had experienced so far.
"Wow, who'd have known that our grade was so big? Hey Sora, are you going to eat that apple?"
"Well Tidus, I-" Oh, too late. Damn that kid can eat a lot. What, is he starved at home or something?
"Kairi, I hope you have Mr. Highwind for Phys Ed! He's sooo amazing!" Selphie continued to gush about Mr. Highwind (although really, after what I had seen I couldn't blame her) while Wakka started talking with Riku about what classes they had.
You know, to have friends like these, it's really nice.
Still, after about a minute I remembered that Vaan had said we should sit together at lunch. As I scanned the room for the blonde, I found him sitting at a different table, a pig-tailed girl laughing as she smiled at him.
Geez Vaan, guess you don't believe in the whole bros before-
"Sora?" I turned to look at Kairi, the sweetest of angels smiling at me. "Something wrong?"
"Nope! Everything is awesome!"
Alright, another class with one of my friends. And this time it's Kairi!
"Well Sora, are you going to take a seat or stand there grinning like an idiot?" You say that Kai, but you know that my grin is the sexiest thing in the world. Well, maybe besides Mr. Highwind's voice.
Oh crap…I think I'm turning.
"Welcome everyone, to Grade 9 English. I'm Mrs. Harvey, and it's a pleasure to-"
Wait, Mrs. Harvey?
"Any relation to Mr. Harvey?" Oh crap, I really need to learn how to keep my mouth shut. Still, it sounded as if I wasn't the only one with that thought, several of my classmates murmuring amongst themselves.
The rather beautiful blonde smiled at me, apparently not upset in the least about my little outburst. "Why actually, yes. Mr. Harvey is my husband as of two years ago…and actually, to let you in on a little secret, I'm expecting."
Kairi was amongst the girls who let out coos, apparently finding the relationship between my English and Math teacher adorable. But I was still confused. Expecting what? A package? Someone to come in? As I continued to puzzle over her oh so cryptic statement, I realized that she was gently rubbing a hand over her stomach. It did seem a little-
Oh.
Sora, you really need to catch onto these things faster.
"Alright, alright. Enough about my love life." Mrs. Harvey was visibly blushing as she waved hand before us. "Let's focus on works of literature, shall we? After all, I'm sure you could find thousands of stories more romantic than the one Cecil and I share."
The remaining few minutes of class went by rather quickly as Mrs. Harvey told us what books we'd be reading and what sort of assignments we'd be up against. I don't know, a ten page paper? That sounds a bit daunting…
"Kairi?"
"Yes Sora?"
"Why am I signed up for Dance class?"
"Because you signed up for it?"
Damn, Kairi is good at making me look stupid. Although after she mentioned it, I did remember something about writing Dance down under the electives I'd be interested in. I wonder why that was…
"Sora, they offer dance at High School! As a class! Oh, I'm so excited!" A fourteen year old Kairi had said as she showed me her registration form. "It's going to be so much fun! I hope I can find someone else to take it with me."
Never in my life had my eraser worked so fast as I looked down at my own form. Computer Science, what's that? Dance is where it's at.
"…Sora? You there?" Yes Kairi, I'm here. No reason to wave an arm in front of me…oh wait…this could work.
Alright Sora, focus.
"Sora, seriously, are you- h-hay!" Kairi hadn't expected my hand to suddenly grab hers, the girl caught off balance as I spun her around. Before I could send her plummeting to the floor, my other hand quickly came around, keeping her off the ground as I dipped her.
Damn, and people say Riku is the smooth and sexy one.
"…Sora…" Kairi's cheeks nearly matched her hair as our eyes met. Damn, she's so cute…alright Sora, it's time to lose your lip virginity. You promised yourself it would be her damn it. Who cares if the whole class is…staring…
"Woah, you've got some nice moves, little man!" Before I could even register what was happening, Kairi was back up on her feet while I was being pat on the back. "You've got to teach me sometime!"
When I turned my head, I found myself looking into the eyes of a grinning young man who proceeded to shake my hand. "Alright, give it up everyone! This kid has talent!"
I do? I do! I do have talent! Hear that Kairi, I'm a talented dancer!
Wait, is that a good thing?
"Alright, time to get started! I'm Bartz Klauser, but please just call me Bartz. I really hate my last name." This elicited some laughs from the class (okay, I admit it, I laughed too) as we all looked upon the man who wore a red shirt with its middle open. Geez, that's not fair. So he gets to show off his body while we're all stuck in these shitty uniforms? Ugh.
"So yeah, welcome to Dance Class. Don't worry about grades and all that. Just do your best and I'll give you all A's or something. We're just all here to have fun, learn a bit about how to shake that body and relax from the harsh atmosphere of school."
I'm suddenly not having any regrets about signing up for Dance. Like, at all. Bartz made us introduce ourselves once again. While Dance was mainly composed of girls, there were a few boys too. Let's see, I think one was named Hope (strange name), one named Demyx (stranger name), and then there was one named Calcabrina (…). They all seemed alright, although we barely had a chance to talk before class ended. Well, maybe tomorrow!
Dear God. Make it stop. Make it end.
"…some say that Zanarkand was once a buzzing metropolis, the closest thing to what we now call a utopia. This however, I must denounce. During my own years there, I found that there was indeed a dark side to the city, one that few were willing to acknowledge. Yet it was there. Otherwise, how would the city have fallen into absolute ruin? I have attempted to share my knowledge with historians over the years, but few have been willing…"
Okay, I'll take Mr. Norg over this guy. Just please, please make him shut up!
Judging by the snores that filled the history classroom, I wasn't the only one who found Mr. Maechen a complete bore.
"So Sora, how was your last class."
"Maechen."
"Oh…I'm sorry?"
"Yeah. Thanks Riku." The silver haired boy laughed a bit as he punched my arm, our little group of friends gathering together after the final bell rang. Day one was over, meaning that we had about one hundred and seventy nine left. The good news was that most of my classes actually seemed pretty cool, and if not the courses than the teachers.
But then there was history…
"So, we all hitting the beach today? I mean, pretty sure homework isn't an issue at the moment." Of all people it was Kairi who had spoken up, although I guess that made the most sense: she and Namine had been on that cruise for the past month or so, meaning she didn't hit up the beach or so every day.
Woah, wait a second. Kairi + Beach = Kairi in a bikini.
"I'm for it! Come on guys, we can catch the 3 o'clock tram and everything." Despite both Kairi and I seeming quite eager to go, it became quite obvious that the others didn't share our views.
"Sorry guys. Have to get back early today." Sometimes I just don't understand Tidus. I mean, I've known him since we were both seven and well, even now I'm unable to grasp what's up with him. The fact that he hardly talks about his personal life might have something to do with that though. Whatever, I'm not one to pry.
"Yah guys, hate to say it but I actually already have plans. Got a date with Lu, yah?"
"Lu?" Fewf, I was worried I was just out of the loop. The fact that all the others joined in on stating that syllable made me feel slightly better.
"Oh, yah. Forgot to mention. She's a pretty cool girl. I'll introduce you to her sometime, yah?"
"You'd better Wakka!" Yeah, you tell him Selphie! "But sorry Kairi, Sora. I actually have to go meet with my tutor today."
Since when does Selphie have a tutor?
"And I actually have to get home and work on one of my pieces…" Well at least that makes sense. Everyone (or rather, Kairi) always insists that Namine is some master artist who is already working on a professional portfolio. I really want to see how much she's progressed. I mean, the last things I remember seeing her draw were crayon pictures back in Elementary school.
Both Kairi and I now turned to look at Riku, who simply offered a smile and a shrug. "Sorry guys. Sophomores actually do have homework. And trust me, Raines' class isn't easy. Well, as far as I've heard."
I didn't get a chance to ask who this Raines guy was as Kairi actually grabbed my hands.
Oh God. I never thought I'd say this, but for once I'm happy I'm not in dreamland!
"Well, we'll just go for a bit ourselves then, right Sora?"
"H-Huh? Oh yeah, sure Kai!" Time with just myself and Kairi. This was just too good to be true.
"H-Hey!" Damn it Roxas, don't ruin this for me! I turned to look at my cousin, although to my surprise (and delight) he wasn't alone. Behind him stood three teens, two of them being of the more awesome gender while one was a girl. "We were going to head back to the usual place. Anyone interested?"
"Sorry Roxas, we're all busy. Maybe next time if things work out."
"Heh, you're the ones who are missing out." Au contraire, Hayner. While you and your little group sit around discussing silly things, I'll be having some one-on-one time with Kairi. Bet you don't get that very often with Olette, huh?
"Well Sora, what are we waiting for? Christmas?" Before I could reply that I was indeed looking forward to the return of that jolly old man and all the presents he'd bring (that puppy better be amongst them this year…), Kairi grabbed my hand and started to run. Needless to say, I didn't resist.
"It's been awhile since we've been there, hasn't it?" As the two of us stood on the beach (sadly still in our uniforms. No bikini-clad Kairi for me…), I found that both of our minds were drawn to the island that lay off the coast of Twilight Town.
"Yeah. We used to go to the Play Island all the time. I guess time has been the problem recently, huh?" The smallest of the series of islands known as the Destiny Islands, the Play Island was uninhabited. Still, because of the nice scenery it became a place for recreation over the years. When we were all young, my dad took myself, Riku and Kairi there once. We've since made a habit of going.
Well, until recently at least.
"Don't worry Kai, we'll go there soon. Maybe this weekend, or if not then the next! I mean, maybe we've kind of outgrown it, but I feel like something is still there for us."
"…you know what Sora? I feel exactly the same way." As I looked at Kairi, I found the most peaceful of smiles on her face. She wasn't kidding, was she? "Ever since we first touched down there, it has become a special place for all of us. We've had a lot of good memories there you could say."
"Yeah, and we'll build many more as we grow older, Kai." I hoped my words would make Kairi smile, and just to go the extra mile I threw in my trademark cheesy grin in too! I mean, that has to earn my some points.
Apparently it did, although not in the way I thought.
"…you're right…hey Sora?"
"Yeah Kairi?"
"Don't ever change."
If it means getting closer to you, Kai, then I'll make sure I stay this way forever.
Chapter 2 Preview: First Point
"So, you're the new hotshot that I've been hearing all about, huh?"
"A guardian?
"Our meeting was perfect, Tidus. Well, I suppose it was a little messy, but no real harm done. And I'm Yuna. It's a pleasure!"