Chapter 2: Don't Kill the Messenger

Sora woke up the next morning feeling the cold, wet dew on his face. He stood to his feet and shook the excess moisture out of his hair. Stretching, he loosened his muscles before doing anything else. There was a dense thick fog that hovered over the gallows making it nearly impossible to see. The visiblity was utterly horrible and would prove a problem if he did not get back to the shack. It would take a while before the precipitation would clear. The weather could be so cruel sometimes. Extending his hand like a blind beggar, he felt his way around. He strained his eyes as the cold, wet air made him teary. Finally, he had come to the shack and worked his way to the old wooden door that he slid quietly to the side. Apparently, Riku wasn't there and Sora guessed he was probably taking a walk. Walks for Riku were synonymous with Sora's nap. They just couldn't do without. Sora at in the shack huddled in the blankets that were around. He rested his head on a vacant pillow and decided to sleep once more. Slowly the fog began to dissipate and it was visible enough for Sora to leave. He dragged the wooden board back over the entrance and he started his way toward the marketplace.

Following the road, Sora passed the marketplace where he saw many vendors start setting up shops. Continuning, he passed many other stores. Soon enough, he had come to his favorite place - the weapons boutique. There was a lit candle shining though the dew stained window indicating it was open for business. From the outside, the glimmer of the swords caught Sora's attention first. Their golden hilts glistened in the light and how he wished he could wield one. There were spears as well. They were of fine wood made from sturdy ash trees and their razor sharp tips were refined and strengthened in the hottest fires. Towards the back of the shop were the collection of bows and arrows, cross bows, and knives. Every kind of available weapon could be found here.

Stepping through the threshold his eyes met Leon, Radiant Garden's most revered swordsmen and owner of this fine establishment. His resume was noteworthy to say the least and it was impossible to list all his accolades. Leon was fairly built and at first glance did not possess the brute strength or raw intimidation. His quiet personality, though, was strong enough to send chills down anyone's spine. His legacy was legendary and no one could match his skill with a sword. Some say he had no rival, save Cloud. He was well known throughout the kingdom and his name was spoken by neighboring places as well. Rumors had it that he had won 100 straight battles.

Sora looked at the man who was leaning against the wall. His arms were crossed in natural fashion and his head was down as if he were sleeping. Tied around his waist was his notorious gunblade. In all his life, Sora had never seen a weapon fashioned like it. It had to be at least two feet long and the blade seven inches wide. The hilt of the sword resembled a barrel of a shotgun. Judging by the way Leon could easily hold it with one hand was a testament to its feather-like weight and durability. For added spice, a lion charm hung from the bottom of the handle.

Sora and Riku had seen Leon practice many times before. The way he twirled his blade made him looking he was dancing. His movements were fluid and graceful. There was purpose in each attack and no strike was ever wasted. He was always in balance ready to attack or defend at any given moment.

Feeling embarrassed, Sora slipped his wooden sword behind his back but the subtle movement caught Leon's eye. In one quick move, Sora was turned around and the wooden sword was fully exposed.

"Still playing with that toy sword, Sora?" Leon lightly asked.

"Yeah, hopefully I'll be able to afford a real sword soon," Sora answered him. "By the way, how much are they again?"

"Those standard ones over there by the wall are 500 munny. The ones with the golden hilt are 1000 and these behind me are 2000."

Sora looked at each sword admiring the metalwork that was done. The sharp blades were made of durable steel and the hilts were made of fine material. Sora did a quick calculation in his head and a frown formed on his face as he came to his answer. It would take him at least two to three years to be able to afford a decent blade. His current job only paid 100 munny and the rest of his profits went to food. He knew he could always ask Riku for help but his wage wasn't great either and he, too, also spent munny buying dinner.

The door flew open as a royal soldier dressed from head to toe in silver armor stepped through. His noisy armor clanged and banged loudly on the wooden floor clearly disrupting the peaceful morning. A long pointy spear was held in his hand. The soldier lifted the visor to reveal an old bearded face and experienced brown eyes.

"Sir Leon," the man addressed. "The king and queen require your assistance. I have come for you."

"Oh, are they back already?"

"Yes, they are."

"Very well, I'll be going right now."

Leon and Sora followed the man outside.

"Hey Leon, what's going on?" Sora quizzically asked.

"The king and queen are returning today," he plainly answered.

Locking the door to his shop, Leon turned and walked away with the old soldier.

Sora stood there fazed and uncertain of what to do. It was joyful news that their highnesses were coming back. The king's brother had served as an intermediate during the duration and he had been a fair substitute. There hadn't been much mayhem or domestic trouble and everything was running as if the real king and queen were seated on the throne.

A massive group of townspeople began to flock out of their homes and lined the streets waiting the arrival of their king. The streets soon filled up and Sora was being pushed and shoved as more and more people began to crowd. It was apparent that they loved their king. His family had been the royal line for generations. Unfortunately, the bloodline ended here. The king, Creon, and wife, Leda, had only a daughter with no apparent male heir.

Sora raced back to the gallows and found the door to the shack moved. He ducked inside and found Riku eating breakfast. His arms were wrapped in white clean bandages and his sword lay at his side. It was evident that he had gotten back from training.

"Hey, Riku," Sora shouted interrupting his friend's breakfast. "The king and queen are finally back!"

"Took them long enough," Riku answered indifferently.

"We should go see them."

Riku lifted his eyebrows and shrugged his shoulders as he followed his enthusiastic friend to the marketplace.

By this time, the whole city had come out to show their support for their king. There weren't any space available so Riku and Sora had to crawl, push, and shove their way to find a decent spot where they could see. Somehow, Sora had gotten lucky and he was pushed to the front.

Suddenly a throng of loud trumpets sounded and the air was filled with joyous shouts and cheers. Sora looked on at the beautiful white carriage that was being ushered in towards the white castle on the top of the hill. The royal crest that was on the carriage door shined brightly in the now rising sun and the thick fog that once plagued the early morning was gone. Twelve strong, white, male stallions pulled the royal carriage through the streets with a dozen fully armored soldiers marching in front and another 12 bringing up the rear.

"Riku, look, I can see the carriage," Sora announced.

It was a wonderful sight to see. The overjoyous crowd waved their hands and shouted enthusiastically. Their joy filled the air as if they had never experienced anything else.

Behind the carriage, a smaller carriage was being driven in. Instead of twelve stallions, six mares were pulling it. Also, six guards were stationed around it. Sora turned his head and looked at the smaller carriage. No doubt it was the king's daughter. That was for certain. The blinds of the carriage were drawn up and Sora peered inside and saw a girl sitting there. She had bright red hair and a vanilla complexion made more beautiful by the sunlight. Never before had he seen a girl as pretty as she. The carriage passed on by but Sora felt his legs move on their own as he found himself racing down the alley.

Soon he had left the bustle of the crowd and stood at the iron gates of the castle. Feeling a tad devious, he hid behind the stone grey wall. Behind him, the carriages came and the soldiers positioned there lifted the heavy gate and the carriages were driven though to the courtyard. They came to a halt and the royal carriage door was opened. The queen stepped out, decked in a white puffy dress made of the finest quality of fabric. Her hair went straight down to her shoulders like her daughter's. The king followed next. His suit was white with round gold buttons on it. A scepter was in his left hand and his sword was tied around his waist. However, it was the second carriage that interested Sora the most.

The door opened and out stepped the girl. Sora could feel his heart throb in his chest as he gazed at her. She wore a strapless pink peach colored dress that went down to her ankles. A white, cloudy gem hung from her neck. Her hair was put up in a ponytail. She looked around the courtyard, her blue/violet eyes scanning the scene before her. Sora could feel a hint of hesitation come from her as though she was unfamiliar with her surroundings. Her body language was timid and rigid but soon a small smile formed on her lips.

"HEY! YOU!" a loud voiced boomed.

Sora felt his heart jump as he instantly turned around to find a towering guard over him. His visor was lifted to show a pair of piercing blue eyes filled with strength. Sora smiled his goofy grin as he stood to his feet awaiting his punishment. The soldier took hold of his arm and forcibly dragged him toward the king.

"Your highness, I found this boy wandering around."

He threw Sora forward and he stumbled as he tried to regain his footing.

Sora could see the queen and the princess standing by the door of the enormous castle. The girl was unaware and her eyes were glued to the red rose bush beside her.

"My dear," the king called to his wife. "Please take Kairi inside now."

As soon as they left, the king turned to face Sora. Sora stood there looking up at the king. His eyes were kind and soft and an amused smile was on his face. It was no wonder why Radiant Garden stood as strong as it has for years. Under King Creon, Radiant Garden entered a golden era in which art and science flourished. Neighboring lands relied on Radiant Garden for protection and commerce and the kingdom became known as a bastion of peace and hope as well as success and longevity.

"I'm guessing you're not Leon," the king finally said. "You look a bit too young."

"I'm Sora, sir."

"Well, Sora, what brings you here?"

Sora hesitated for a moment embarrassed to tell the king that he was mesmerized into coming here by his lovely daughter. There a slight blush on his face but he quickly shook it off. His gaze fell on the dirt ground.

"Well, you see…uh…" Sora began to mutter.

Nestor, the stiff sentry, protector of the king, grunted in displeasure. He crossed his arms impatiently waiting to hear the boy's answer.

"The king has asked you a question," the rough soldier said snapping at Sora. "It would be wise to answer."

"Relax, Nestor. I advise your counsel," the king softly said, "but I'm sure this boy means no harm."

Sora could feel Nestor's callous glare upon his back. He could feel the piercing stare burn into his soul exposing him. The pressure made Sora weak in his knees and he began to wilt.

"I…uh…I got lost," Sora said.

"You're trespassing on royal ground. I could have you thrown in jail for that," Nestor grumbled.

"I'm sorry, sir. It won't happen again."

The king nodded, seemingly accepting the apology. Sora bowed then turned to leave.

"They're all the same," Nestor said as he turned to the king. "It's all fun and games to them."

-KH-

For the next couple hours Sora spent most of his time at the lake. He sighed deeply as he looked up at the white, moving clouds above him. All he could think of was Kairi. The way her eyes shone was bright as any star and her smile- it was sweeter than any honey. Sighing once more, he threw a tiny rock into the lake. It skipped across the mass of water creating little ripples. The secret lake was Sora's home away from home, basically. Here he could think (if that were possible).

"I knew I'd find you here," a voice called out behind him.

Sora turned around and found Riku sitting up on the tree. How he had gotten there was a mystery. How long he was up there was Sora's next question.

Riku jumped off the limb and landed softly on the soft lush, green grass. He took a seat next to his brunette haired friend. Taking a flat smooth rock that was just sitting there; he threw it into the water. It landed with a splash adding to the existing ripples.

"Let's go Sora. We have work to do."

Sora sighed as he slowly got up and followed his friend back to the city.

-KH-

Sora worked as a messenger boy and was entering his second year of service. It was a low paying job but fairly easy to do. By now, he had known all the major streets and alleys of the entire kingdom like the back of his hand. Every passageway, road, and bridge had been used by him. That's how he knew where the secret lake was or how he was able to get to the castle gates unnoticed.

Riku, in his opinion, had a cooler job. He was the assistant to the one of the dukes of the kingdom. His name was Ansem. Ansem the Wise, as he was affectionately called, was a brilliant man, known far and wide. He also served on the king's royal council. His office was located uptown and was filled to the brim with books. There was never time he would be seen without a piece of literature in hand. Besides being a wide reader, he was a scientist and immersed himself in it. He was a master in the field of physics, chemistry, and biology. Life sciences appealed to him greatly. The latest breakthrough he was working on was publishing a book about hearts and darkness. Riku couldn't understand it fully but at least he didn't get a headache from Ansem rambling on and on about his findings.

Sora opened the door to his workplace and immediately a female voice greeted him.

"You're late again, Sora," Tifa jokingly called out.

Sora stepped through the threshold and into his boss' office. A stack of tied down papers were sitting on one corner while the rest were piled in chaotic fashion. They were all over Tifa's brown desk and all over the floor. There was no place that was free of renegade paper.

Tifa turned around and smiled at Sora. She had long raven black hair that extended down to her butt and bright brown enticing eyes. She wore black clothing that revealed her womanly curves quite well. If Sora hadn't known better he'd guess that she was trying really hard to impress someone. Cloud, perhaps? Every time he would pass by, Tifa would look at him all wide-eyed and bushytailed. But hey, you didn't hear that from me.

"Here you are Sora."

She handed him a note and Sora took it from her. Surprisingly, it was enclosed with the royal seal. This was a rarity. An occurance like this would only happen once in a blue moon and from what Sora could tell, the moon was always white. However, a small smile formed on his lips and he casually stuffed the note into his brown carrier's bag.

"Take your time with that delivery," Tifa called after him.

"Why? Is Cloud dropping by today?" he answered back.

"Yes…wait. Hey!"

Sora laughed as he raced out of the building.

-KH-

Slowly, Sora made his way back up to the king's castle. The sun was dipping down the horizon turning the sky yellow, peach orange, and red. He walked up the gate where that bully Nestor had found him. Luckily that brute wasn't there waiting for him. Sora flashed the note to the guards who stood there on watch and they let him pass. He stepped forward getting a good look at the huge castle. There was the courtyard where he first laid eyes on Kairi and also that's where Nestor made a big fool out of him. Sora kept walking eyeing each the guards he passed. Every nook and cranny was guarded by soldiers carrying long, powerful spears. Their visors were down and Sora scratched his head feeling a bit intimidated. Every entrance was guarded by two soldiers.

Up above him more soldiers patrolled the perimeter of the castle. Their deadly crossbows were in hand, locked and loaded with swift arrows. Sora pulled his black coat over his body to escape their stares. He increased his pace but was stopped when he ran into one of the guards. Feeling that same fear that Nestor had instilled, Sora backed away slowly. However the guard stepped aside and opened the door to the castle. The spiky brunette bowed gracefully before hurrying inside.

The inside of the castle took his breath away. A long red carpet led into the foyer where candle lit chandeliers hung above him. The single room was enormous, big enough for a family to live in. It was mind blowing how this was only the reception room. There was a set of fine spiraling staircases divided by a running water fountain. Sora looked around taking it all in. A servant of the castle met with him and escorted him to the throne room.

Sora followed in the servant's steps up one staircase into a room. They look two lifts and Sora stood there marveling at the work. This castle was indeed ahead of it's time. The lifts were powered by water which flowed underneath the castle and around the city. This was Ansem's work no doubt and Sora wondered how long it took to complete this project. It eliminated the need for long staircases by employing natural resources for power. Sora shook his head, baffled by the extent of Ansem's wisdom.

The lift stopped at the top and the servant led Sora up another short flight of stairs and into the throne room. Sora followed the red carpet to the top where the king and queen were sitting. Sora bowed respectfully.

"Ah, Sora. Don't tell me you got lost again," the king lightheartedly greeted.

"No sir," Sora said getting on his two feet. "I have a message."

He came forward and placed it in the king's hand.

The king read the letter several times as a frowned graced his calm face. He bade Sora a thank you and farewell before pointing to his royal council. They retreated into an adjoining room shutting the door behind him.

Feeling done here, Sora retraced his steps back to the lift room and down the stairs into the giant foyer. He threw open the giant door of the castle and walked out. However he was stopped as he felt someone watching him.

Turning around, he found princess Kairi looking out her window, a calm smile on her face. Fear entered his body and froze. She signaled him to come forward and he obliged.

"Weren't you that one boy who was here earlier?" she asked.

Sora nodded his head feeling guilty. Now she probably thought he was some low life vigilante.

"What is your name, oh messenger boy?"

"I'm Sora, your highness," he said respectfully after bowing.

"Come up here, Sora," she motioned.

Sora took a step back as he took in the simple request. He shook his head defiantly but Kairi's reassuring smile was so inviting. Knowing he'd probably get in serious trouble, he grabbed hold of the coiling vines that would reach to her room and climbed up. He stepped foot in her balcony feeling a bit out of place. He was only a commoner in the presence of a princess. The law of the universe was being defied here and surely a thunderbolt would come down and strike him dead. Though Kairi was inside her room, Sora kept his distance and stayed put on the balcony.

"Don't worry, Sora. I don't bite. I just want to talk," she said with a small innocent smile on her face.

Sora sighed as he entered the room unwillingly. The soft pink walls were a striking difference from the white interior of the entire castle. He found a vacant chair by the window and he took a seat. They talked for a while, trading stories and Sora realized how good a listener she was. He told her stories of his life- leaving out the living in the gallows part. She even laughed when he told her that Riku's hair was grey not silver. To be honest, she was the only person who laughed at the joke. Selphie didn't count; she'd laugh at anything.

However, their conversation was cut short by someone knocking on the door.

Happy Valentines/Single Awareness Day!

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