Kingdom Hearts: The Winter War

by colossalblackening

After using the Power of Waking to find Kairi, Sora awakens in the mysterious land of Hueco Mundo with no memories of his past life. Lost and confused, Sora joins forces with the Soul Reaper, Sōsuke Aizen and his Arrancar army. However, there is more to the truth of his lost memories than what he believes.

32. Beach Party Celebration!

Kingdom Hearts: The Winter War

A/N: Hello everyone. Well, we've finally reached the second to last chapter of this crossover story. As the title suggest, this chapter is mainly a celebration chapter following the wars end. There will be memorable moments and other characters will make appearances in this chapter as well. Anyways, please read and enjoy. Also, I don't own anything.

Ep. 32: "Beach Party Celebration! Friends Forever and Always!"

In Disney Castle

The skies were dark all throughout Disney Town as the stars sparkled all across the large nighttime sky, with no cloud to obscure the brightness of the stars. In the courtyard of the Disney Castle, Donald and Goofy emerged from the doors of a large castle-shaped hedge. Following the gathering in Hueco Mundo, they returned to the World of the Living where all of Sora's friends left for their respective worlds. Of course, they would not be staying long as they had other plans that Sora purposed.

"Boy, it sure does feel great to be back home." Goofy happily said.

Donald nodded. "Yeah. And everybody will feel happy now that the King is home as well."

"You're not wrong Donald." King Mickey said as he passed through the doors. "I know our adventures are important, but nothing feels better than returning to the people you care for the most."

As he said this, the Disney Trio turned to see two people welcoming them at the courtyard. One was a female anthropomorphic mouse with black fur and large, black, circular ears. She has long eyelashes and wears a gold tiara with a ruby mouse-shaped symbol set in the middle. She wears an elegant ball gown with short, ball-shaped sleeves. The top of the gown is pink with red lining, with a flower-like pattern inside circles on the pink sections that line the bottom. She wears another, salmon-colored layer underneath this, and a third, pleated, red layer under that, white gloves that cover her whole arms and a large, red bow on the back of her dress. She is Minnie Mouse, Queen of the Disney Kindgom and Mickey's wife.

Standing alongside Minnie was an anthropomorphic duck. Her eyes are light blue with long eyelashes and wears lavender eye shadow. Her plumage is white and her bill is yellow-orange. She wears a gold tiara with a sapphire set in the front, an ornate, sleeveless, violet ball gown with a high collar and a white, lace column of buttons going down the front. The abdomen of the dress is amethyst-colored, and the top half is lined with a tan, triangular pattern. The bottom of the gown is periwinkle-colored, with a white, wavy pattern separating the lower half from the upper, violet half. There is a pleated purple layer underneath the dress, visible in the front. She also wears long, white gloves over her four-fingered hands. Her name is Daisy Duck, the duchess of Disney Castle and also Donald's girlfriend.

Minnie wiped a tear away as Mickey rushed over to her, relieved that her King had returned. Before she could rush over to him, something zipped past her. it was a blood hound with long, black, droopy ears, short, yellow fur and large, close-set eyes. He has three toes on each paw and a long, thin, tail and wears a loose, green collar. He is Pluto, Mickey's trusted dog.

"Arf, Arf!" Pluto barked happily as Mickey welcomed him with open arms before his dog jumped on him, knocking him to the ground.

"Pluto. It's good to see you too boy. Ha, Ha!" Mickey laughed as Pluto licked his face, happy to see his master again.

"He certainly missed you a lot Mickey." The King saw Minnie giggling at their joyful reunion. Mickey smiled as he stood up with Minnie holding his hands. "Oh Mickey, it's so great to have you back."

"Gosh, I sure have missed you all." Mickey said as the two mouses looked at each other lovingly, glad that they were reunited at last. Donald smiled at them before he heard his name being called.

"Oh Donald." Donald turned to see his girlfriend walking over towards him. Donald thought she was going to hug him like the King and Queen, but instead Daisy gave a glare.

"And just what took you so long, mister!?" Daisy demanded, getting up on his face which caused the duck mage to step back in fright. "Um, ahhh…" Donald's voice failed as he could not find the right words to explain the events that transpired in Hueco Mundo. But he did not have to worry as Daisy immediately latched on to his arms.

"Ah you can explain later." Daisy said, sweetly. "I just missed you so much." Donald smiled and returned the hug, relieved to be back with his girlfriend after so long.

Goofy chuckled as he felt something climb his shoulder. It was an anthropomorphic cricket with olive skin, thin black eyebrows, four-fingered hands with white gloves. He was dressed very formally, wearing a royal blue top hat with an orange band near the base, a red vest with a single, pink button on the front, a yellow ascot, a black blazer, and a high-collared white shirt. He also sports tan pants and yellow shoes with black tips. On one of his hands is an red umbrella. His name is Jiminy Cricket, the royal chronicler who has kept records of Sora, Donald, and Goofy's three major adventures.

"Jiminy! Garwsh, it's sure good to see you again." Goofy joyfully said.

"Boy, it sure is glad to have you all back." Jiminy said in an equal manner. "I must say, that was some lengthy trip you three took. I do wish I could have recorded all of it on my new journal."

"We're sorry we couldn't take you with us Jiminy." The King apologized. "But with the situation being worse than we thought, we didn't want to put you in any danger."

"I understand your majesty." The cricket replied, understanding their feelings.

"Speaking of which, were all of you able to find Sora and Kairi." Minnie asked with concern, having known of their disappearance during the whole month.

"Don't worry Minnie. Though the dangers were great, we were able to find them and bring them back home." Mickey replied, much to her relief. "Of course, we have to thank our friends, old and new."

"Well, I'm glad that everything worked out well in the end." Daisy said as she looked at Donald. "Now, we can finally plan on our next date." She said with a smile.

Donald however, looked nervous. "Well, the thing is-"

"What?!" She asked, suspiciously. Before Donald could explained, Goofy interjected. "It's nothing much, the three of us have a little party to tend to the next day."

"A party?" Minnie and Daisy asked in unison.

"That is correct." Everyone turned to see Master Yen Sid exiting the hedge, with two anthropomorphic chipmunks on his shoulders.

One of them has brown fur over most of his body, excluding the fur on his face, neck, the front of his belly, and around his eyes, which is buff-colored. He has triangular ears, a white mouth, and a black nose. He has three toes on each foot and four fingers on each hand. He wears seal brown gloves, each with a gold, horizontal line near the bottom, a yellow apron of sorts with red shoulder straps secured to black buttons and the outline was the same color as his fur. The yellow section sports green stitching lining the edge, and the other section has brown stitching. There is a slanted, blue pocket on the front of the apron with a red Mickey symbol surrounded by a yellow gear. He also has two teeth, set together, in the center of his upper jaw. His name is Chip, one of the Gummi Ship's operators.

The second Chipmunk shares most of his physical features as Chip does, but he has two, bucked teeth in his top jaw, a larger, red nose, slightly lighter-colored fur, and a mohawk-like crest of fur on the top of his head. Unlike Chip's ears, which face roughly forward, Dale's point in opposite directions, to the left and right. His gloves are also a lighter shade than Chip's, and his apron has the inverse color scheme of Chip's; that is, the yellow section on his apron is buff-colored, and vice-versa, the same being true for the two different stitching colors on the apron. His name is Dale, Chip's brother and another one of the Gummi Ship's operators.

"Circumstances aside, the Soul Society wishes to host a celebration to mark the end of the war." Yen Sid explained. "And those who aided in the war's victory are all invited."

"I see." The Queen nodded in understanding, having been explained about the Soul Society prior to the final battle. "But when do you all leave."

"First thing in the mornin'" Goofy said. "And we better get our swimsuits cause we're goin' to the beach."

"The Beach!?" Daisy parroted.

"That's right! But don't worry Daisy. We have the whole night to spend together." Donald said, trying to cheer up his girlfriend. She however, was still fuming.

"How come I can't go to the beach!? I have this new swimsuit that I want to try on." Daisy moaned.

"Maybe some other time." The King said. Jiminy however, thought of something else. "Hold on. How will the others arrive at this beach? Speaking of which, where are they?"

"Everyone went back to their home worlds to take care of some things." Chip explained. "But luckily we have a Gummi Ship so we can pick them up tomorrow."

"We even lent Riku on of our Gummi Ships." Dale said. "He said he needed to check something out in Radiant Garden."

"As for myself, I'm afraid I must return to the tower on the morrow." Yen Sid said. "However, I have helped to provide the preparations needed for tomorrow's beach celebration."

"But for now, we have our own party to attend to." Dale said as he gestured to the sky. Everyone looked up and saw fire works shooting up all across the castle sky. They all stared happily as the residents of Disney Castle and Disney Town celebrated the return of their beloved king, royal magician, and captain of the guard; the heroes of the Disney Kingdom.

---

In the Land of Departure

In the summit near the Land of Departure, Terra and Ven stood behind Aqua, who kneeled down as they all faced the Master's Defender Keyblade that was jabbed to the ground with a wraith over it. This marked the grave spot for their late Master Eraqus. Though they had nothing to bury, they still chose to retire his Keyblade hear, in the home world their master protected, where he taught them how to wield a Keyblade.

The Wayfinder Trio placed a hand over their hearts and bowed their heads as they stood in silence to mourn and prayed for their master to lead a safe after life. On each of their heads was the wayfinders they each treasured so much. When the praying was finished, they each stepped forward and placed the wayfinders on top of his grave mark.

"I'll admit that the things I went through may not have been the best memories I've had." Ven said, but smiled. "But it was through all those terrible experiences that I was able to make new friends and become stronger through it all."

"You may have been my master, but I made the choice to carry on the burden you placed." Aqua said. "Everything that happened was shaped by my own decisions and as Keyblade Master, I vowed to continue your work and protect the stability of worlds." She looked back at her two friends. "And I'll do it with the help of my friends."

Terra and Ven smiled before the latter looked back at his master's grave, remembering the final words he said to him before his death. "I promise, that as long as I'm alive, I will protect the people that matter to me. And I'll finish the task you gave me and conquer the darkness within me…so that I can become a Keyblade Master that you be proud of." The ray from the setting sun shined on the Keyblade as Terra looked on with a smile. "Thank you…father. For everything."

With their final words said, the Wayfinder Trio began making their way towards the castle, speaking amongst themselves.

"So what time should we be at the beach tomorrow?" Ven asked.

"If I recall what Rangiku said, the beach party should take place around 9 in the morning." Aqua said. "Fortunately, our time-axis works the same in other worlds. At least in the worlds we know."

"We should be thankful that they were kind enough to help us pick out what to wear for tomorrow." Terra said. "Anyways, we better get some rest so that we can be ready to leave tomorrow."

"But first let's have something to eat." Ven suggested.

Aqua nodded. "That sounds like a splendid idea. I'll cook us something to eat."

"That sounds nice." Terra kindly said. As he and Aqua continued walking, Ven came to a halt when he spotted a small figure hiding behind a stone pillar. It was a small creature with grey fur accented by black stripes, a large spherical head with small ears, narrow blue eyes, and a white snout. It also has stubby limbs, lacking distinct digits, as are their tails. It is dressed in a gold and blue cape and a small pink purse around their necks that bears a star-shaped emblem. This creature was known as Chirithy, a cat-like anthropomorphic Dream Eater that once acted as companions for Keyblade Wielders in ancient times.

Chirithy realized that Ventus noticed him, quickly hid behind the pillar out of fright. However, it peaked it's head as it looked at Ven curiously.

"Ventus?" Chirithy asked. "Do you…remember me? Do you remember you're past?"

His past? Ven pondered on that for a moment, then said, "Everything is still hazy for me, but…" He smiled as he opened his arms, welcoming Chirithy. "I always recognize a friend when I see one."

Despite not having any facial expressions, Chirithy squealed as it hopped in joy before rushing over to his friend. "Ventus!" It cried, jumping on his arms as Ven held him.

"And call me Ven." He said as the two shared a laughed. As their laughter died down, Chirithy looked at Ven and said, "You know, I nearly forgotten what it was like to be held like this."

"Well I nearly forgot what it was like to have a friend by my side." Ven said. "Where have you been all this time?"

Chirithy fidgeted before replying. "Well, it's kind of a long story."

"Hey Ven!" They turned to see Terra calling to him, he and Aqua stopping. "Come on. Let's go!"

"Coming!" Ven replied before looking back at Chirithy. "So those are the new friends you made during your time in this world."

"Yeah, but they can be your friends to." He assured it. "Let's go. I'll introduce you to them and I can tell you on all the things that have happened to me."

"I'd like to hear that." Chirithy said as Ven carried it before running over to his friends. "You know, I met someone who remained me a lot about you."

"Really?" Ven asked.

"Of course." It nodded. "Well, he was more slow on the uptake…and kind of a goofball."

Ven couldn't help but contemplate on it's words. What it said greatly describe a certain friend of his that helped shelter his heart for many years. Seeing that he was nearing Aqua and Terra, Ven shook those thoughts away and caught up with his friend, introducing Chirithy to them.

---

In Twilight Town

Roxas and Lea sat on the ledge on top of the clock tower that was visible all across Twilight Town. They looked on into the vast distance as the setting sun painted the dusk sky in bright shade of orange. As they looked, a wave of nostalgia struck both of them greatly as it brought back a lot of memories from their days in the Organization.

"Nothing ever changes, huh?" Roxas stated.

"Nope." Lea replied. "Course, with this sun, it's heard to tell how different things get around here." He chuckled. "Then again, that's just how tough life gets for us."

"I guess you're right." Roxas said. The two continued to look out into the distance for a few seconds. Until the arrival of someone broke the silence.

"Hey guys." They turned to see Xion joining them. "Sorry I'm late. I kind of slept in." She sheepishly said as she sat down.

"Yeah. I can tell by the bed hair." Lea teased.

"Oh hush." Xion giggled as she straighten her hair out. Roxas laughed a bit before he looked at Xion and Lea sitting on either side of him. He smiled as he said. "This really brings back a lot of memories."

Xion nodded. "Every time we finished our missions, we'd always come here and have ice cream. It was our own 'icing on the cake'."

"I see you still got that memorized." Lea said, then asked. "Speaking of which Roxas, you've still been keeping count on the days?"

Roxas shook his head. "No point in keeping count since I was reborn once again. And besides…" He turned his head to the sunset. "I don't need a reason to keep count on the days anymore. Now, I plan to just live my life to the fullest."

His two friends smiled at his words. Xion grabbed his hand. "I feel the same way. Despite all that's happened, I'm alive and I'm not scared of facing the future anymore."

"Yeah, and now that we're all here, let's make the most out of everyday." Lea said. "And just our luck, we're gonna be going to the beach later today. But first…I could go for some-"

"Ice cream." They turned to see Isa standing behind them, carrying two bars of Sea-Salt Ice Cream on each hand. "I had a feeling that it would be the first thing on your minds."

"Isa." Roxas happily called.

"Thank you so much." Xion smiled as the two took their ice cream.

"C'mon pal, have a seat." Lea said as Isa walked over to where he was, giving him his ice cream before sitting down. "Sure took your time getting here."

Isa smirked. "Well, I ran into some interesting children on the way."

Roxas stopped himself before he could take a bite of his ice cream. "Wait! You mean they're-"

"Right here." A female voice said. The four turned their heads to see Hayner, Pence, and Olette exiting the roof entrance, each with an ice cream bar in their hands and happily waved to them.

"Hayner, Pence, Olette!" Xion beamed as the others happily waved back. The Twilight Town trio sat down on the edge as they began eating their ice cream bars.

"I see you have already become acquainted." Isa surmised. Roxas and Xion nodded, the latter speaking. "We met them during our stay in Twilight Town, before we left for Hueco Mundo. Actually, Roxas already knew of them before."

"Well…I knew their virtual counterparts." The former Nobody corrected. "But it felt nice to see them all again."

"Hey, we're all glad we finally got to know the real you." Hayner said. "I still couldn't believe you were that same guy who broke my record on the Grandstand."

"When was this?" Lea asked.

"It was during my first day off." Roxas replied. Pence them saw Lea and immediately remembered something else. "Hey I remember you. You were that red-haired guy who was with Roxas."

"You met him before?" Olette asked.

"We met back in the Underground Tunnels. They were looking for their lost friend so I decided to help them out." Pence said, taking a bite of his ice cream.

The red-haired man chuckled as he remembered to. "Oh yeah. Ha, a lot happen after that. Almost forgot about it."

"Didn't get it memorized?" Xion teased as the others shared a laugh. After calming down, Olette took a bite of her ice cream and said, "Actually, we met a long time ago."

"We did?" Lea raised an eyebrow.

"Yeah, you kind of attack Hayner and Pence and kidnapped Kairi." Olette said with a frown, causing Lea to flinched as he remembered that day.

"Whoa…huh…look I don't know how to say this but sorry about…" He was cut off by Olette's laughter. "It's fine. Roxas and Xion explained to us about everything that happened. They said that you're really sorry for that and decided to help protect Kairi and Sora."

"Speaking of which, did you find those two? You guys left in such a rush." Hayner asked.

"It was a hard challenge, but we managed to find them in the end." Isa stated.

"Well that's good to hear." Pence nodded. "Maybe you can bring them over and we can all have lunch at the Bistro."

"What for? You'll have lunch there anyways." Hayner teased.

"Hey!" Everyone shared another round of laughter at and with Pence. Afterwards, Hayner grinned as a thought came to mind. "You know, why don't we all hit the beach."

"All of us?" The portly boy asked.

"Yeah. The train is still running." He said.

"Hayner, we barely have enough munny for four people." The brunette girl said. "I'm not sure if we can all go today." This seemed to damper Hayner's spirit, before Roxas said.

"Hey, if you guys want to go to the beach, then you should come with us." Roxas offered. "The best thing is, it's free."

The got the attention of the three friends, who looked at him in bewilderment. "Are you serious?" Hayner asked, with Roxas nodding.

"Roxas, are you sure it's a good idea?" Isa questioned.

"Why not? We're all friends here. Plus they've already known about all the things that Sora and others have been doing." He reasoned. "Plus, I don't want to keep anymore secrets from my friends."

Lea nodded in approval. "I think Roxas's has the right idea. Plus I'm sure these three will liven things up."

"It would be great if you three can join us." Xion said with a smile. The three friends looked at each other, then smiled as they nodded in approval.

"Sure." "Sounds great." "We'd love to." Hayner, Pence, and Olette said respectively. The former then asked, "So, when do we leave."

Just then, a large shadow was cast over them as the Twilight Town trio looked in awe while the Sea-Salt trio and Isa smiled at the sight of it. Roxas smirked and said, "We leave right now."

---

In Radiant Garden

Daylight shined on the large castle that was the center of the city of Radiant Garden, also known as the city of light by most residents and those who knew of the world. Despite all the chaos and conflict the town had suffered through, thanks to the efforts of Sora, his friends, and the Restoration Committee, the city of light was finally restored to it's former glory.

Deep within the basement of the castle was the laboratory where the Sage-King, Ansem the Wise, and his apprentices conducted their research. Now, Ansem the Wise stood on the side as his apprentice Even observed the readings on the monitor.

"Even, do you have the results?" Ansem the Wise asked. Even observed the monitor and read the contents that were displayed.

"Life readings: Stable. The heart waves are responding normally. No anomalies detected and perfect synchronous of body and heart." Even looked back with a pleased expression. "It seems that the process was a complete success."

Behind them was Ienzo, who stood beside Naminé as she laid down on the medical bed. The Sage-King and senior apprentice walked beside Ienzo as he looked at his notes on the clipboard. "The replica may have been completed, but having to be forced out of Kairi's body was a different matter." He said, having been filled in on what occurred in Hueco Mundo. "We feared that it might have had some negative effects on the replica. But it seems that we were wrong. You're new body is fully stabilized and you should be feeling okay."

Naminé's eyes stirred as she woke up and smiled at the sight of the three researchers standing before her. "Thank you. Thank you all. And you two DiZ…no Ansem the Wise."

The Sage-King nodded but said. "The ones who deserve the gratitude are Sora and Riku who help provide the replica needed to restore you." He then smiled and said. "Regardless, it is great that you have returned to us."

"And it's grateful that Sora and Kairi were also rescued." Even said. "After my Nobody's eradication, I feared that you would have been overpowered by that Espada."

"It's okay. We should be glad for Sora and another friend of ours who helped defeat the man responsible for all this." Naminé said with a smile.

Ienzo nodded. "Yes, as always, our faith in him is never misplaced." He then said, "Tell me Naminé, what other plans do you have?'

"Let's just say I have a celebration to attend." the blonde girl said as she hopped off the bed.

"Yes, we just made contact with him and he will be here shortly." Ansem the Wise said. "You best make you way. Dilan and Aeleus will be outside to escort you. And please give my regards to Sora."

"I will." Naminé said as she made her way out, waving goodbye to Even and Ienzo before leaving. She exited the castle doors and began making her way down the castle steps, where she saw Dilan and Aeleus waiting by the bottom.

"We were waiting for you." Aeleus said. Naminé walked towards them as she looked around. "Is he here?"

"He will be arriving shortly." Dilan replied as they walked Naminé towards the Central Square. And by sheer coincidence, a Gummi Ship flew past the castle and hovered above the Central Square before slowly descending towards the ground. Naminé rushed over as the two guards stood back.

"Right on time." Aeleus said with his right hand on his hip.

"That is one way to make an entrance." Dilan smirked with his arms crossed.

Naminé stopped as she saw Riku stepping out of the Gummi Ship and walked towards her. "How did it go?"

"It went well. Ansem the Wise says that I'm fully stabilized." She replied, with Riku sighing in relief. She then asked. "Is everything ready?"

"Everything's been set up, with help from the Soul Society." The silver-haired boy said, before holding his hand out. "We should go. Everyone should be arriving shortly."

Naminé nodded before taking his hand. "Than let's go."

With that, the two friends boarded the Gummi Ship as it took off, leaving the world's atmosphere and departing for the victory celebration that will soon follow at the beach.

---

In the Soul Society

"You idiots!"

In the Squad 1 barracks, Head-Captain Yamamoto's voice boomed across the entire area, shaking the foundation to it's very core. Standing in front of the Head-Captain were Kenpachi with an annoyed look on his face, Byakuya with his eyes closed, not caring about the Head Captain's scolding and Kyōraku with an comedic-relaxed expression.

"Each of you is telling that you lost your captain's coat!?" Yamamoto exclaimed. "Damaging is one thing but losing it is outrageous! How could the three of you just looking so nonchalant about it!?"

"Really Head-Captain, you make too much of the situation." Byakuya said. "In the end, they were just cheap coats. We will pay for them to be replaced."

"You think that's going to resolve the situation!?" Yamamoto knocked his cane on the wooden floor in anger. "That's not even the primary thing I'm concern about here! And by the way, for your information you smug know-it-all, those coat were anything but cheap! Battles are not just about winning! What do you think a Captain's coat is anyway!?"

"A royal pain." Kenpachi answered.

"A cheap garment." Byakuya said.

"A fashion statement?" Kyōraku questioned.

Those answers struck a nerve at the Head-Captain, causing his veins to throb in ire. "YOU ALL ARE NOTHING BUT A BUNCH OF IGNORANT BUFFOONS!"

From the outside, Ukitake merely sat on the floor with his eyes closed and a relaxed smile, as his nothing was happening at all. Aside from him, two other Soul Reaper officers were nearly knocked away from the force of the Head-Captain's voice.

"The head captain seems to be in good spirits." Said a man with dark hair and a short goatee. He wears a customized version of the standard Soul Reaper shihakushō, wearing a thin white headband and white straps around his shoulders, which are tied in a circle at his back. He is Sentarō Kotsubaki, co-3rd Seat of Squad 13.

Sitting next to him is young petite girl with dark blond hair and gray eyes. She wears a standard Soul Reaper uniform with the collar of a white shirt protruding over her top and white gloves. She is Kiyone Kotetsu, the co-3rd Seat of Squad 13. She groaned as she rubbed her head, watching as Yamamoto continued to scold the other three captains.

"You're right." Ukitake said. "It's been ten day since he lost left arm in battle. I was worried that he would see himself as crippled and lose his spiritual vitality. But his strength seems to be back, so it's a relief." Ukitake said with a smile. "There's no Soul Reaper who would be able to take his place."

---

Meanwhile, in another part of the Seireitei, Ichigo laid unconscious on a futon as his body slowly began to stir before his conscious soon returned to him. When it did, his eyes opened immediately and saw Rukia, Orihime, Chad, and Uryū looking down on him.

"Ichigo!" Orihime said happily. The orange-haired teen was surprised to see his friends gathered together. He then looked around, seeing that the surroundings in this room were different than his own bedroom. "Where am I?" he asked.

"We've brought you to my house." Rukia said. Ichigo sat up and looked at his friends, noticing that their injuries are gone. "What happened to your injuries?" Ichigo asked.

"We all were healed a long time ago." Uryū answered, pushing his glasses.

"What are you talking about?" Ichigo asked confused.

"You've been unconscious for the pass ten days, Ichigo." Rukia said.

"You've got to be kidding." Ichigo said, surprised that he was unconscious for this long. Then, he touched his chest as he tried to sense his own spiritual energy. "My powers…are they gone?"

"Don't worry, they haven't faded away yet." Rukia answered, which made Ichigo look at her. "So you already know?"

"Yes." Rukia nodded. "Kisuke told us everything."

"I see."

"Are you alright, Ichigo?" Orihime asked worried.

"It was very strange." Rukia said. "At the moment when everyone was reunited, you collapsed and we had no idea what happened."

---

(Flashback)

Riku, Rukia, Naminé, and Ulquiorra looked and saw that Sora, Urahara, and Yen Sid were the only ones who looked unsurprising at this.

"Sora, Master Yen Sid, what's happening to Ichigo?" Riku asked.

"Mr. Urahara, do you also know what's happening to Ichigo?" Naminé asked Kisuke.

"Don't lie to us." Ulquiorra said, monotonously. "We are already aware that you know more than you let on."

"If you do know, please tell us." Rukia said. "Is he going to be alright?"

Urahara closed his eyes for a moment, then opened them as he decided to reveal everything. "That last form you saw Ichigo take…it was the result of a technique known as the Final Getsuga Tenshō."

"The Final Getsuga Tenshō." Uryū parroted.

"So that was the name of the form he used." Riku understood what it was, but that did not explained what was happening now.

"But what is happening to Ichigo now? Is it a side effect!?" Nel pleaded.

"In a way, it is." Urahara sighed before explaining. "Don't worry, what's happening to Ichigo now is nothing life threatening. However, there was a price he had to pay for using it."

"What's going to happen?" Rukia asked, feeling that she was not going to like the answer. Everyone waited for an answer and Sora decided to be the one to say it. "The price is…that Ichigo will lose all of his Soul Reaper powers."

Silence filled the air as everyone tried to comprehend the revelation of what they just heard. They knew that Ichigo had become powerful while in that form but they never expected that he would have to pay a price that severe. Finally, Orihime decided to break the silence by asking, "What's going too happen to Ichigo?"

"According to what I learned, there are several stages that Ichigo will go through in the course of losing his spirit energy." Yen Sid took over. "First, he will lose consciousness and the time that his body spent inside the Precipice World will immediately begin to flow in reverse."

"Meaning his appearance will return to what it used to be." Ulquiorra surmised.

"Correct, and his spirit energy will stabilize." Yen Sid nodded. "And he will still retain his Soul Reaper powers. Eventually however, it will advance to the next stage."

"What will happen then?" Kairi asked.

"When that happens, there will be no question that he will black out once more." Urahara said. "This time, it will be accompanied by intense pain. When he regains consciousness, he would lose all of his Soul Reaper powers. That could be next week, next month, or a year from now. Even I don't know how long his current state of instability will continue."

"But in the end, he will lose everything. His own power." Aqua said with sorrow. Halibel closed her eyes in resignation. "So…this was price he paid for his own sacrifice." The Substitute Soul Reaper was willing to sacrifice his own powers to save the lives of his own loved ones. His noble actions had earned her respect.

"Is there any way they will return?" Chad asked, not wanting to see this happen to his own friend.

"Not that I know of." Urahara said with regret.

SMASH

Everyone saw a palm tree tumble down as they saw Grimmjow's fist slammed into it. He removed his closed fist as he looked angrily at Urahara. "So, you mean to say that there's nothing we can do!? That Ichigo's just gonna be powerless forever!"

Urahara did not reply, which irked Grimmjow as he began to march over towards Sora. "And you! You were right there with him! If you knew about this then why the hell didn't you stop him!?"

Sora just looked up at Grimmjow with a neutral expression. "It was Ichigo's choice to make. He said that he didn't have any regrets about losing his powers. Not if it meant protecting his friends. And I could tell he meant it."

"Ichigo sacrificed his powers for us." Renji murmured in disbelief.

"If it was Ichigo's own choice, then he must have thought hard on this." Chad said.

"That's just the type of character Ichigo is." Uryū said, with a frown. "Always believes that he has to shoulder everyone's burden and face everything himself."

Rukia remained silent as Grimmjow was not pleased with the response he was given. "So that's just it then! Damn it! How the hell I'm I ever gonna prove that I'm stronger than him."

"Is that all you really care about?!" Xion exclaimed. "You don't even feel sorry for any of Ichigo's friends!"

"Like I give a crap about them!" The blue-haired Espada roared. "I only wanted to prove I could beat Ichigo with my own strength and now I'll never get that chance!"

"Geez, he's really prideful." Ven said.

Starrk sighed. "That's just how guys like Grimmjow are. Just wants to prove that he's the best."

Ulquiorra merely closed his eyes, however, he thought differently. "It's not only the fact that he wishes to prove his own superiority. He is also upset of having lost the only rival he ever acknowledged. Of course, he's too proud to ever admit that fact."

Still seething, Grimmjow scoffed before turning away from the group and began to walk off.

"Hey! We're you going!?" Apacci asked.

"Anywhere but here!" The Sixth Espada rudely replied. "I don't have any reason to stick around anymore. Wherever I go is my own business." With that, Grimmjow left the oasis and departed away from the heroes.

"Grimmjow, wait!" Nel was about to give chase, but was stopped by Halibel. "Let him go. He needs some time to himself."

Sora nodded as he looked back at Ichigo, who had finally lost consciousness.

---

(Flashback End)

"…after that, Grimmjow stormed off. We don't know where he's gone." Rukia finished explaining. Ichigo looked out of the screen doors, taking the new information about his Soul Reaper power along with everything else that followed afterwards. He could understand Grimmjow's frustrations, but it's not like he was already aware of the consequences. With new resolution, he gave his friends a smile and said, "Oh well…when that time comes, it comes."

"Ichigo, are you…" Orihime asked.

"Don't worry, I'll be okay Orihime." Ichigo said. "More importantly, I'm glad that all of you are okay."

Orihime was surprised at his words. "Wait a minute…"

"What the hell are you talking about?!" Uryū exclaimed, angrily. "How can you act like it's nothing?! You're about to lose your spirit energy, you know!"

"Come on, Uryū." Chad said, trying to calm Uryū down.

"I got into this knowing all of the consequences." Ichigo said with a smile. "Like Sora said, I have no regret about what I did."

Rukia smiled and said, "Okay then…"

"Anyway now that we're all healed up, I guess there's no reason for us to hang around here, right?" Ichigo said, standing up. He opened the screen doors and smiled at the sight of the beautiful morning. "We should head on back to Karakura Town. Everyone there is probably waiting for us."

"Well you can't leave now." A voice said. "If you do, you'll miss the party."

Ichigo turned to Sora and Kairi walking alongside the garden to where Ichigo was. The two smiled at the sight of Ichigo and rushed over to him.

"Ichigo, you're awake!" Kairi said.

"Sora, Kairi! You're here." Ichigo smiled at the sight of his friends.

"Good to see you back on your feet." Sora said as he and Ichigo fist bumped.

"Sora and Kairi arrived at the Seireitei a few minutes ago." Rukia explained. "They wanted to see how you were doing and I told them to wait outside while we checked on your condition."

The orange-haired teen looked surprised at what he heard. "You guys didn't have to do that."

"We know. But we wanted to." Kairi said.

"That's what friends do; they help each other out." Sora reasoned. Ichigo smirked until he recalled something Sora had just said earlier. "Wait! You said that I would miss the party. What party?"

"We forgot to tell you." Uryū explained. "The Soul Society is throwing a victory celebration to celebrated the end of the war. And everyone is invited."

"There's going to be food, games, and all sorts of events." Kairi followed.

Rukia nodded. "We figured it could be a good way to relax after all the fighting that was done." She then looked at her friend. "So Ichigo, are you in?"

Ichigo pondered for a moment. While he wanted to go home, a party did sound like a good way to get his mind off things that happened. He smiled and nodded. "I'm in. Where's this party going to be at?"

Orihime squealed as she said, "The Women Soul Reaper's Association had trouble deciding the location of the party. But then Sora came and made a great suggestion."

Sora chuckled as he said, "I decided we should go to the beach. But it's not just any beach…"

---

The Destiny Island

"Welcome to the Destiny Islands!" Sora proclaimed as he, Kairi, and Ichigo's group stepped out of a Garganta, all dressed in their swimsuits. (A/N: I will only be describing the swimsuits of those who were not present in the beach episode. The ones who were will be wearing the swimsuits they wore.)

The non-natives of the islands stared in awe at the ocean view, which went on for miles.

"Amazing." Uryū breathed.

"So, this is your world?" Rukia asked.

Kairi nodded, "It is." She was wearing a pink one piece swimsuit with a matching skirt with black frills.

"It's so beautiful." Orihime happily said. "I can't believe we're actually in another world."

Sora chuckled at her reaction. "You should thank Kisuke and Master Yen Sid. They were able to complete the Garganta that they used to send my friends to Hueco Mundo the first time." He was wearing a black swim shorts with read outlines and an open beach shirt similar to his jacket's design.

"That explains how they got to Hueco Mundo from another world." Ichigo understood as he looked around. "Hey, where is everybody?"

"Right here!" They looked to see Riku, Rangiku, Roxas, Xion, and Lea walking towards them. Sora smiled as he walked over. "Riku, good to see you."

"Glad to see you're still in high spirits." Riku smirked as he shook Sora's hand. He was wearing dark-purple swim shorts and a black shirt that was opened. "And Ichigo, it's good that you're finally awake."

"Well I couldn't just sleep forever." He replied with a smirk. "And thanks for inviting us over to your beach."

Sora then noticed something about Roxas's group. "Where did you guys get your swimsuits?"

"Well, we didn't have any so Rangiku took us all shopping for them." Roxas said. His swimsuit consisted of green shorts and white open shirt.

Rangiku nodded with pride. "And I must say that it looks good on you boys. As for the girls, I initially offered to lend them one of my swimsuits but they said no."

"Yeah. Have you seen the swimsuit that you're wearing?" Xion, who wore a black one piece, said annoyed. She was right as everyone noticed that Rangiku's bikini looked a little to small for her. Some of the guys blushed while Kairi, Rukia, and Xion looked annoyed.

"Ah don't be like that. You're just sore that none of you have the figure for it." She teased while strike a pose.

Lea, who wore black swim trunks with red flames on the end, grinned. "I say it looks good on her." This earned him a smack from Xion and Rukia. Rangiku then noticed Sora and walked over to him. Because of her height, Sora came up to her cleavage area, which she noticed and bend over till she was at his eye level, giving him a good view of her breast.

"Tell me Sora, how do I look in my swimsuit?" Rangiku said, giving him a playful wink.

Sora blushed heavily as he chuckled sheepishly, not sure on how to reply. "Oh…well…it's not a bad look on you…I guess. Heh, heh." Rangiku giggled at Sora's innocence. This however, annoyed Kairi as she glared at Rangiku.

"Ahem!" She cleared her throat loudly. "Excuse me, do you mind not getting to close to Sora!"

"Ahhh, don't be such a sourpuss Kairi." Rangiku giggled. "Everyone knows that a man's opinion is what matters for a woman's appearance."

"An opinion?" Riku bluntly said.

"That's right." She then walked over to Riku, who barely reached her height as she cupped his chin. "I must admit, you're a lot easy on the eyes. I bit all the ladies fawn all over you." Riku lightly blushed as the Squad 10 Lieutenant smirked. "So cute."

The silver-haired boy just looked away, remaining aloof. "Are we done?"

"Just ignore her." Ichigo advised before saying. "Where are the others?"

"They're all down by the beach, next to the docks." Roxas replied.

"Then let's go." Rukia said as everyone rounded the corner and made their way to the beach. When they arrived on the beach, they were welcomed by the sight of Ukitake, Kyōraku, Unohana, Isane, and Naminé.

"Sora, it's good to see you." Ukitake said. "And Ichigo, it's great that you are awake. I'm glad that you could make it!"

"Thanks Jūshirō." The orange-haired boy said. Unohana then walked over to Ichigo, "Tell me Ichigo, how do you feel mentally?"

Ichigo pondered for a moment, realizing that using the Final Getsuga Tenshō was bound to have left some marks on him. However, he did not feel anything out of the ordinary, as far as he knew at least. "Well, I still feel a little sore. Probably from having slept through ten whole days. Other than that, I don't feel any different."

"I see. Regardless though, I recommend to not over exert yourself." Unohana advised. "If you feel any effects, then let me know. Understood."

"Yeah…I understand." Ichigo shakily said, not wanting to get on Unohana's bad side, lest he get on her bad side.

"Good." Unohana smiled, then turned to Sora. "And it's great to see you are well, Sora."

Sora nodded as he walked towards them, "It's great to see everyone. And you're Lieutenant Isane, right?"

"Y-Yes…I am." Isane said, nervously.

Kairi and Xion walked over to Naminé, who wore a two piece swimsuit with a swim skirt with frills. The two girls greeted the blonde with warm smiles. "Is great to have you with us Naminé."

"Did everything go well at the castle?" Kairi asked, hearing that she went there for an examination. Naminé nodded in confirmation. "Everything went well. As I hoped, no anomalies were found when my heart entered the replica body. I am now officially a whole person like you and Roxas." She said to Xion.

"Well we're all really happy for you." Roxas said, gratefully. "Now, we can all have a fun time at the beach."

Naminé nodded. "I look forward to it."

"Captain!" Two voices screamed. Everyone turned to see Kiyone and Sentarō appeared next to Ukitake.

"Captain! You need to remember to put on your sunscreen to protect you from the heat!" Kiyone said as she applied a copious amount of sunscreen on her hand that was about to rub on her captain's back.

"You fool! That won't be enough!" Sentarō argued before raising a beach umbrella over Ukitake's head. "What the captain needs is shade!"

"How will that help!?" She roared as the two got into an argument. However, that was interrupted when Ukitake cleared his throat, getting their attention. "Both of you, where are your manners? You're being very rude, not introducing yourselves to our guests."

The 3rd Seats of Squad 13 looked at their captain in confusion before noticing that Sora, Ichigo, and the others were standing in front of them.

"What's their problem?" Lea whispered to Rukia. The petite girl just sighed. "They both admire Captain Ukitake so much that they go out of their way to impress him."

"I apologize." Kiyone said to Sora with a bow. "My name is Kiyou Kotetsu. I'm the co-3rd Seat of Squad 13. Captain Ukitake has told me so much about you, Sora."

"Well he told me more!" Sentarō said, before making a salute to Sora. "My name is Sentaro Kotsubaki. I'm co-3rd Seat of Squad 13."

"What do you mean he told you more?" Kiyone demanded as she and Sentaro began to yell at each other again.

"Ha, Ha, Ha, well it's good to see everyone in high spirits." Kyōraku laughed as he walked up to them. While he retained his straw hat and pink kimono, he wore dark-blue swim shorts and flip flops. "I must say Sora, what a lovely island you live in. Thanks for inviting us."

"Pleasure is all mine." Sora happily said.

"Captain, there you are! Everyone is waiting!" A slim and youthful girl said, walking over to them. She has long black hair that is pinned back, with flat bangs that hang to the right side of her face. She has slightly light blue eyes that have a deep tint of violet and wears glasses with a slight oval shape to them. Like everyone also, she also wore a swimsuit for this event. Her name is Nanao Ise, Lieutenant of Squad 8.

"Ah, don't be so sore, lovely Nanao." Kyōraku whined. "But now that you're here, I want you to meet Sora, one of the heroes of the Soul Society."

"Heroes of Soul Society?" Sora repeated in surprise.

Uryū shrugged. "That's what everyone in the Soul Society has been calling you and Ichigo."

"Me too?" Ichigo exclaimed in surprise.

"Of course." Kiyone said warmly. "All of the Soul Society has been talking about you two."

"You guys are the only ones who managed to bring down the traitor Aizen and save us all." Sentaro explained.

Kairi giggled. "It looks like you two have made names for yourselves during the war."

"It's always been that way for Sora to become the center of attention." Riku said.

Lea huffed in annoyance. "Hey, we helped to yah know! So why don't I get any rock star treatment!?"

"You were in Hueco Mundo the whole time!" Naminé pointed as Lea's friends just laughed while he pouted. Meanwhile, Nanao looked at Sora with a calculating look, as if she was sizing him up. This brought a sense of déjà vu for Sora, as it was the same look Lisa gave him when they first met. Them Nanao said formally. "I am honored to meet the one who defeated Aizen. Greetings, Sora."

"Oh!" Sora was thrown off by her formality, but smiled as he shook her hand. "Well it's nice to meet you." Now Nanao was thrown off by Sora's informal greeting. She had assumed he would have been well mannered and sophisticated but…

"Kind of a let down for you Nanao." Rangiku teased. "This whole week, you were gushing on what kind of guy Sora was, saying he was polite and wise. Course, he wouldn't have gone for you anyways, since he probably prefers a real woman." She emphasized by puffing her large breast.

"Excuse me!" Kairi yelled, blushing.

"Will you leave me alone!" Nanao screamed, her face red as well.

Riku chuckled. "Looks like Sora made a good first impression." He then heard a meow as he looked down and saw a black cat nuzzling his leg. Riku raised an eyebrow before picking the cat up. "I don't remember any strays on this island. Did Selphie leave another stray cat again?"

Ichigo however, noticed this and looked slightly panicked. "Riku wait, that's not a-"

POOF

"Aw, way to ruin the fun Ichigo." Yoruichi pouted before smirking as she was latched on to Riku, holding him by the neck. Riku blushed at the fact that a woman was this close to him. The fact that she was in her swimsuit made it more uncomfortable.

"So, you're that Riku guy that helped out Suì-Fēng and Marechiyo." Yoruichi said with a playful voice. "It's nice to officially meet you."

"Uh…the feeling is mutual…I guess." Riku said, feeling awkward.

"What is taking so long!?" Suì-Fēng's voice roared as she rounded the corner with a look of impatience. "Why are all of you standing…AAAHHH!" She screeched when she saw her goddess latched on to Riku.

"Lady Yoruichi!" Suì-Fēng squealed before sending Riku a look that screamed bloody murder. "YOU! What the hell do you think you are doing to Lady Yoruichi!?"

"I didn't do anything!" Riku protested. "She came here looking like a cat before turning back."

"Yep, and I wanted to see how he'd react!" Yoruichi laughed before letting go. "He may be less of a brute than Ichigo, but I still say that Sora has more innocence than him." She said, giving him sultry look. Sora just laughed uncomfortably while Ichigo just turned away. To the side, Kairi looked annoyed while Orihime blushed.

"But still Suì-Fēng, you sure know how to pick them." The Goddess of Flash Step said, making Suì-Fēng look worried. "What…do you mean…M'Lady?" Suì-Fēng asked, afraid of what she was referring to.

"I know how he protected when you fought that Espada. He even carried you off your feet." Yoruichi said. "It looks like you finally moved past your hopeless crush on Kisuke!"

"WWWHHHAAATTT!" The Squad 2 Captain screamed. She frantically shook her head. "No, no, no, no! You're mistaken! Where did you hear that!?"

"Marechiyo told me." She replied.

"Damn you Marechiyo! The next time I see you, you're dead!" Suì-Fēng mentally noted. Back at the Soul Society, Ōmaeda was filing paper work before he felt a chill go down his spine for some reason.

"You got it wrong!" Riku sighed as he decided to clear up this misunderstanding. "First off, I don't have any feelings for Suì-Fēng. Yeah we fought together and I helped her out because that's what partners do."

Suì-Fēng smiled before nodding. "There you have it. As you can see-"

"Besides, she too stuck up and stubborn for her own good." The silver-haired boy said, causing Suì-Fēng to glare at him in ire. "What is that supposed to mean?"

"Nothing. Just that you really need to mellow out." Riku replied. He then her pink one piece swimsuit. He snorted before saying. "Although, I didn't think pink was your color." He side stepped as Suì-Fēng tried to attack him with her face red with both embarrassment and fury.

"That's it! Now I'm really going to kill you!" She roared as she used Flash Step to attack Riku. Fortunately, his reflexes and unarmed combat skills allowed him to not only keep up but block her attacks. While that was happening, the others were already making their way down the beach to join up with the others that had already gathered. When they finally got there, they saw that several of the Keyblade Wielders and Soul Reapers already their, including the Vizards.

"Hey, Sora! Ichigo!" Shinji called over to him. He wore a red swim shorts. "Glad you guys could make it."

"It is my world after all." Sora laughed.

"Shinji! I'm surprised to see you here." Ichigo said.

"Lieutenant Matsumoto invited us for this day and we accepted." Hachi explained, wearing a purple bathrobe and matching shorts.

Love nodded. "Gotta say though, this is a fine beach you live in." He wore green swim shorts that were similar to his usual track suit.

"It's okay." Lisa said as she laid on a beach towel, sunbathing. She wore a pearl two piece bikini with blue polka dots.

Ichigo however, had a thought that crossed his mind. "Wait a minute, why did you guys even come to the beach anyways? Doesn't the Soul Society have a pool or something?"

"We did but that got torn up." Rangiku said with a pout.

"Allow me to explain." Nanao said. "The Women Soul Reaper Association has been building a pool for sometime. Unfortunately, it was discovered and destroyed."

"Why!? They don't like swimming pools?" Roxas asked.

"No." The Squad 8 Lieutenant sighed in annoyance. "They just so happen to have built it right in front of Squad 6's barracks and Captain Kuchiki found it and destroyed it."

"Well you said it had to be a large open area." Kiyone argued.

"Fortunately, I came up with the solution to have our celebration at one of the beaches in the World of the Living." Unohana said. "Unfortunately, with winter approaching, it would not make for a relaxing day."

"That's when Sora suggested we go to his world for our beach party." Rangiku said, smiling at Sora.

Sora nodded. "Well you guys said we needed some R&R and I just wanted to help. But we should thank Kisuke for perfecting the Garganta to bring you guys here. Speaking of which," Sora looked around as he tried to find Urahara. "…where is he? Kisuke didn't want to come?"

Yoruichi and Shinji burst out in laughter in response to Sora's question. The spiky-haired boy looked confused before Hachi cleared his throat. "Unfortunately, Kisuke Urahara will be rather…occupied for the next month."

---

In Karakura Town

"Uh Tessai…a little help here." Urahara stood at the front entrance of his candy shop, which was surrounded by a large orange Kidō barrier that engulfed the entire shop. As per their agreement, Hachi used his Kidō to trap Urahara inside his barrier for a full month. The barrier was specifically designed to sense Urahara's spirit energy and prevent him from leaving. However, three other people were exempt from this barrier and were allowed to walk in and out whenever they wished.

One of them was a tall, muscular, lightly tan-skinned man. His hair is styled with cornrows and he has a large handlebar mustache, which is connected to his long sideburns. He wears a pair of rectangular-shaped glasses. His attire consists of a white muscle shirt with green cargo pants and a blue apron with a yellow diamond in the center with a kanji symbol written on it. His name is Tessai Tsukabishi, a long time friend of Urahara who helps around the shop.

"I'm sorry boss, but I owe Hachi a favor and he told me not to free you no matter what." Tessai replied as he packed his suitcase. "With the shop closed for a month, we've decided to take a small vacation on the countryside."

"You three are leaving?" Urahara exclaimed. "But what am I gonna do!? What if I have to eat!?"

"I did the shopping yesterday. You should have plenty of food for the next few weeks." a young-looking girl with a meekly voice replied. She has round purple eyes and long, black hair styled in pigtails with a purple tint that was parted down the middle, with two strands of her bangs in the middle of her face, opposing each other. She also has a perpetual blush on her cheeks. She wears a white t-shirt with the Urahara Shop logo in pink print and a knee-length, pink skirt with white dots. Her name is Ururu Tsumugiya, one of the employees of the Urahara Shop.

"And we also left you some pizza money to. So stop complaining!" Yelled a small boy with red hair. He wears a white t-shirt with the Urahara Shop logo printed on the front and blue three-quarter length trousers, the bottoms of which are noticeably turned up. He is Jinta Hanakari, one of the employees of the Urahara Shop.

Tessai picked up his bag and began walking off with Jinta and Ururu. "We'll be going now. We'll give you a call when we get settled."

"Later boss!" Jinta waved back as Ururu nodded before walking off.

"You guys will bring back a souvenir, right?" Urahara asked but the three did not respond as they continued walking away as if they did not hear him. "Guys!? Guys!?"

---

"You're serious!? He really did that!?" Ichigo said as he choked on his laughter. Sora looked over at Hachi. "You will check on him, right?"

Hachi nodded. "Indeed. We will send someone to observe him once a week. However, I will not dispel my barrier until a full month has passed."

"And not a day more." Suì-Fēng sternly said as she and Riku came up to them, both covered in small bruises and sand from their scuffle. Yoruichi gave them a teasing look. "Looks like you guys like to go at it little rough."

Both captain and master blushed at the innuendo she made. "I-It wasn't like that!" Suì-Fēng assured before regaining her composure. She then shot a look at Ichigo. "Anyways, back to the subject. Do you understand why we're here?"

"I think you all ought to get your heads examined." Ichigo bluntly retorted.

"I don't see what you're complaining about. You get to spend your time with beautiful women wearing next to nothing." Yoruichi said. "You should be grateful."

"She's right." Rukia said. "You and Sora can finally show your gratitude to all the people who've helped you over the years. Even Byakuya and Isa are here to." She gestured to Byakuya and Isa, who suddenly appeared beside Sora and Ichigo.

"Hey Isa! Glad you could make it." Sora waved as Isa nodded with a smile. He wore a dark blue swim shorts with a blue stripe going down each side along with a matching beach shirt with a moon symbol on the top left pectoral area.

"How did they convince you to come to the beach." Ichigo asked Byakuya, who opened his eyes and replied. "They wanted to apologize for building a pool on my property, so they offered to bring me here for some fun in the sun."

"And with my pin-headed friend here, I had to make sure someone kept him in line." Isa said.

"Yeah, like I need you to babysit me!" Lea snapped back.

"Well, at least you guys can finally enjoy yourselves." Xion said to them, both of them nodding.

"How exactly is this an apology?" Ichigo muttered. Ukitake giggled. "Don't waste all your energy trying to figure it out. Or you won't have enough to enjoy the rest of the day."

"Captain Ukitake's right. It's the matter of 'don't ask, don't tell'." Renji said as he, Ikkaku, Terra, and Ven walked over to them.

"Renji! Ikkaku! You're here to?"

Renji nodded. "Rangiku invited us cause she knew we would liven things up around here."

"We had nothing else going on." Ikkaku added. "Shame Yumichika couldn't come but he has this thing of not wanting to get sand on him."

"And with everything that happened, a day to relax is what we needed." Terra said. He wore light brown swim shorts and black undershirt.

"Besides, we never got to go to a beach before. So we weren't going to pass up that opportunity." Ven said, wearing a black swim short with checkerboard pattern on each end.

"There they are! It's Ichi and Spiky!"

Sora and Ichigo saw Yachiru and Nemu walking towards them.

"Yay! You're here! Ha, Ha!" Yachiru said happily, reminding Sora of Nel's kid form.

"Greetings, Sora and Ichigo Kurosaki." Nemu said politely. "I trust you are both well."

"Oh…we're alright, I guess." Sora felt a little awkward since Nemu looked completely emotionless.

"Sora! Ichigo!" Suddenly, the two boys was caught up in a hug from none other than Mashiro, wearing a dark green bikini. "I missed you!"

"Hey," Kensei snapped at her. He wore green camouflage swim shorts. "They just got here and you're already trying to kill them!"

Mashiro stuck her tongue out at him. "You're such a meanie, Kensei!"

"Now, now, Mashiro," Rose said as he stepped forward, wearing black swim shorts. "Kensei's right. You need to let Sora and Ichigo go now. No need to suffocate them."

Mashiro pouted as she let go of them. As she did, Sora noticed two people that were absent. "Where are Aqua and Hiyori?"

"Right behind ya."

"It looks like everyone is here." Aqua's voice called. They turned to see the blue-haired woman and the snaggle-tooth girl rushing towards them. Terra and Ven were caught off guard as they saw the dark blue, two piece halter bikini Aqua was wearing, which showed her curvaceous figure.

Aqua noticed their expression and looked confused. "Is something the matter?"

Terra shook his thoughts off and let out a sigh. "It's nothing."

"Wow Aqua, you actually look like a girl." Ven offhandedly said. This however, caused Aqua's face to be shadowed as she looked at Ven with a fake smile.

"I'm sorry Ven. I don't believe I heard that correctly? Can you repeat that?" She asked menacingly. Ven looked nervous as some of the guys gestured for him to shut up. Unfortunately, he did not pick that up. "Uh, you look like a girl!"

WHOMP

Aqua's fist steamed as Ven laid on the ground with a bump on his head, groaning in pain while Terra tried to calm Aqua. Some of the guys looked at Ven with pity while some of the girls felt that he had it coming.

"That idiot got what he deserved." Hiyori said, walking over. He swimsuit was a white undershirt and red swim shorts, along with a red sun visor cap. She looked over at the others. "Anyways, we were able to bring them over."

"Bring who over?" Uryū asked.

"Us of course." A voice said. Suddenly, a Garganta appeared in front of them and opened up, revealing Starrk, Lilynette, Halibel, Apacci, Mila Rose, Sung-Sun, Nel, Pesche, Dondochakka, and Ulquiorra. The Arrancar group stepped out of the Garganta as the other rushed over to meet up with them.

"Starrk! Halibel! Everyone!" Sora happily beamed. "You're all here!"

"Like we'd miss out on this." Apacci smirked, wearing a red two piece bikini.

"We received an invitation to participate in this beach party." Mila Rose revealed. Her swimsuit was an orange two piece similar to Yoruichi's. "And we decided not to pass up the opportunity.

Sung-Sun nodded as she step forward, wearing a purple one piece and held a white beach towel that covered her mouth like she did with her sleeve. "After all, it's not everyday we get to travel to a world outside of our own knowledge."

"Yeah! And besides you did promise you'd take us to see what your world was like." Lilynette smirked, pointing at Sora who just chuckled. She was wearing a white one piece. She then stared out into the sea, as if she was looking for something. "Where the heck is this ocean anyways? I've never seen it before."

"It's not like we even know what it looks like anyways." Apacci said.

"Hey! Maybe it's pass that big, blue, lake!" Pesche pointed. He still wore his usual attire, only he wore yellow swim shorts under his loincloth.

Dondochakka shuddered. "You mean we have to go through there?" Like Pesche, he wore his usual clothing, only with red swim shorts and green inflatable armbands.

Meanwhile, the others just gave them blank stares, wondering how dense they are. Clearing her throat, Unohana replied, "The large body of water you are all staring at is the ocean." She politely explained.

"WHAT!" The four exclaimed in shock. Some laughed while Mila Rose and Sung-Sun looked at their friend with disappointment. "Seriously, Apacci! Lilynette and those two nimrods are one thing, but you didn't even know that!" the former said.

"Master Halibel had already explained to us what the ocean was." Sung-Sun said. "Then again, your brain is so feeble, it goes through one ear and out the other."

"What the hell did you just say!?" Apacci sneered, glaring at them. "You want to die that badly!?"

"I'm just as surprised as everyone else. I never expected the ocean to be so vast." Nel said, wearing a green two piece bikini. She then spotted Sora and Ichigo and was delighted at the sight of them. "Sora, Ichigo, you're alright!"

The two boys braced themselves for another one of Nel's back braking hugs. Fortunately for them, Halibel came to their defense and grabbed Nel's shoulder and pulled her back.

"Sister Nel, please remember to control yourself." Halibel advised. "I know you are happy to see them but your hugs could to more damage to them, especially Ichigo Kurosaki."

Nel pouted before sighing. "I suppose you're right. Thank you, Tier-Tier."

"Sister Nel?" Ichigo raised an eyebrow.

"Tier-Tier?" Sora echoed, confused.

"During our days when she was my subordinate, I've always thought of Tier-Tier as my own little sister." Nel smiled at the other woman. Halibel wore a white two piece bikini but had a white beach veil around her waste, covering her legs and wore a blue scarf around her mouth to her neck. Fortunately, the scarf helped hide the blush that formed when she heard the words from the woman she admired the most.

"Have you forgotten that she's the queen now, Nelliel!?" Mila Rose looked annoyed, as did her two comrades. "You have to show her respect!"

"I'm surprised you three decided to show up." Riku said, referring to Starrk, Halibel, and Ulquiorra. Starrk, wearing gray swim shorts, sighed as he rubbed his neck. "I was all for staying home, but Lilynette kept nagging me to come to the beach with the others."

"Get over it Starrk!" Lilynette snapped at him. "We get to go to a beach in another world. You can at least be excited about it!"

"I didn't say I wasn't." The First Espada admitted as he looked on at the vast ocean. Sora couldn't help but smile at his two friends before looking over at Ulquiorra, who wore black swim shorts with green outlines. "So Ulquiorra, what brought you here?"

Ulquiorra closed his eyes as he replied. "As they told you, the Soul Society invited us to this celebration and Queen Halibel accepted it. She believed it could be beneficial if we developed good ties with the Soul Society in the effort to be prepared to counter similar threats to that which Aizen posed."

"Is that all?" Ichigo asked, skeptically. Ulquiorra opened his eyes and said, "I also…wished to see the world that you saw. And I believed that traveling to your world would prove the answer."

Sora looked surprised at first, then smiled as he nodded. "Don't worry. My world may not be all that different from Ichigo's, but stay with us, and I'm sure you'll see what being friends is all about."

The Fourth Espada said nothing as nothing but gave a small nod, as if saying he would take his word for it. Kyōraku smiled as he looked around to see that everyone was gathered. "Well, it looks like everyone we invited as arrived." He then turned to his best friends, who wiped some sweat off his forehead. "Hey Jūshirō, are you gonna be alright?"

"I'll be fine Shunsui." He assured. "I've been feeling much better lately and I thought this would be a nice change of pace." The sun rays beamed on Ukitake as he shielded his eyes. "I have to admit, soaking up the rays feels pretty good. The sun on…my…h-he-head."

Ukitake collapsed on the ground, his body sweating as he panted lightly, much to the fear of his comrades.

"Jūshirō!" Kyōraku exclaimed.

"Captain!" Kiyone and Sentarō screamed in fear.

"Get him out of the sun now!" Aqua ordered as they hurriedly placed a beach umbrella on the sand and sat Ukitake under it, shielding him from the sun's rays.

"Coming here may not have been such a good idea after all." Ichigo noted as the two 3rd Seats tried desperately to fan him to keep him cool.

"If he's had too much sun, maybe we should get some ice to cool him down." Isane suggested.

"I'm not sure if our ice magic will be enough to keep him cool." Aqua said. "Besides, it's meant for offensive attacks. If we're not careful, we might end up freezing him by accident."

"Didn't anyone bring ice here?" Lea asked. No one had an answer until Unohana realized. "I remembered. We set up a snack bar not too far from here. I'm sure they have ice stocked."

"A snack bar?" The Destiny Trio repeated in disbelief.

---

"WHOA!" The Destiny Trio exclaimed as they stared at the snack bar that was set up behind the island. They had come here with Ichigo, Orihime, Uryū, Chad, and Renji to get some ice to help keep Ukitake's body cool.

"When did you guys have time to set this up!?" Riku asked.

"We arrived here earlier and when we inspected the island Rangiku suggested to build a snack bar here." Renji explained.

"I don't think you have clearance to build an establishment here." Uryū pointed out.

"It will attract too much attention." Chad mentioned.

"Relax. We're gonna take it down after the party ends." Renji said. "Now come on. We have to hurry." He lead the others inside the snack bar, which was set up with multiple chairs, tables, and a bar stand.

"Excuse me! Could you guys spare a little ice?" Ichigo asked.

"Coming right up." Two voices said. To their surprise, it was Mickey and Olette who walked over towards them.

"Mickey! Olette!" Sora said in surprise. "What are you guys doing here!?"

Olette giggled. "We're working part time of course." She was wearing a black one piece and a red-plaid beach mantle over her shoulders.

"Captain Unohana said they were a little understaffed. So we decided to volunteer to help around." Mickey explained. He was wearing red swim shorts and a yellow Hawaiian shirt.

"That's right. We forgot to tell you." Renji said, slightly embarrassed. Suddenly, they heard a loud crash and turned around to see that Goofy had slipped and fell on the floor, dropping the dishes he was carrying. Goofy chuckled. "Sorry fellers."

"Watch where you're going!" Donald fumed, as he carried a mop.

"Donald and Goofy are working here." Kairi said in surprise.

"Mm-hmm." Olette nodded. "Hayner and Pence are working here to."

"Hey boss, where should we put these drinks?" Hayner's voice called out. They all looked to see Hayner and Pence arriving from the side door, both carrying crates filled with two dozen soda cans.

"Just put them next to the kitchen." Mickey instructed as the two boys sat the drinks down. They both then noticed Sora and his friends, giving them a smile.

"Sora, it's been a while." Hayner greeted, wearing blue swim shorts.

"Hayner! Pence! It's great to see you." Sora happily said.

"We weren't going to miss this." Pence said. His swimsuit was a white shirt with black horizontal stripes and black swim trunks. "I also see Kairi with you. But who are the others."

"Oh right." Sora decided to introduce them. "This is my friend Riku. And the others are Ichigo, Orihime, Uryū, Chad, and Renji."

"It's nice to meet you." Riku said, shaking Hayner's hand. "Likewise." The blonde said.

"Hey there. My name's Pence." The portly boy said, shaking Ichigo's hand. The orange-haired boy nodded. "Ichigo Kurosaki."

Orihime then walked forward to the Twilight Trio with excitement. "Is it true that all of you are from another world?"

"You can say that." Hayner said, blushing at the sight of Orihime in her bikini. Olette shoved Hayner away and said to Orihime, "It's the first time we've traveled to another world ourselves. If you want, we can talk about how our worlds are like."

"That sounds fun." Orihime beamed. "Right Chad?" The large teen nodded. Uryū however, realized something. "Hold on, if all of you are here, then who is cooking in the back."

"That's right. Unohana said you guys hired a special chef to prepare the cooking." Renji recalled. Mickey nodded. "And we did. Actually, we should thank Hayner, Pence, and Olette."

"Roxas was the one that did most of the talking." Pence corrected. "Luckily, he convinced Mr. McDuck to let us have him cook for today. Although we do have to return him first thing tomorrow."

"Wait! Who did you guys get?" Riku asked. Mickey decided to show them by leading them to the kitchen. They crossed the door and to their amazement, the stove was on and there was an assortment of pots and pans with food that was being prepared. However, what caught Riku and the Karakura group off guard was the sight of a gray-haired rat that was scurrying around, either steering pots or flipping the food on the pans. He inhaled the smell of the food and smiled in satisfaction at the rich aroma.

"A rat!" Orihime yelped.

"How'd it get in here!?" Ichigo exclaimed. Uryū acted quickly and picked up a broom. "Filthy vermin. I'll get it out of here!"

Gasping in shock, Sora ran in front and stopped the Quincy from hurting the rat. "Wait stop! Don't hurt him, he's harmless!"

"How can you be sure!?" Ichigo asked, skeptically.

"He's right fellers." Goofy said, peaking from the window. "That little rat is actually the cook."

"The cook?" The others looked and, seeing things more clearly, they saw that the rat was actually preparing the food.

"They're right. He is the chef." Chad said, looking in awe.

"How the hell does a rat know how to cook?" Renji asked in disbelief. Uryū nodded. "Pardon my rudeness, but are you sure it's safe to leave the cooking to a rodent."

"Don't worry. Mr. McDuck says he's had all his shots." Hayner assured.

"You should see the bistro he works at in our world." Olette said. "The food he makes is to die for."

"Yeah. In fact, it was thanks to him that the bistro earned a five-star rating last month." Pence revealed, much to their disbelief. Sora chuckled before signaling the rat to come over. He did and ran up Sora's arm until he was at his palm.

"I never introduced you guys. Riku, Ichigo, everyone, say hello to Little Chef." Sora introduced the rat, known as Little Chef.

"Little Chef?" Riku repeated.

"It's the name Scrooge gave him." Mickey revealed. Orihime walked over and knelt down to reach Little Chef's eye level. After a second, she smiled as she rubbed his head with her finger.

"Now that I look at him, he's actually kind of cute." She said.

"I guess your right." Kairi smiled. "It's nice to meet you Little Chef." Little Chef nodded, showing that the feeling was mutual. Ichigo still looked a little perplex that a rodent was actually a skilled cook. He sighed. "This is weird. Then again, I've seen weirder." Renji, Uryū, and Chad nodded in agreement.

Mickey smiled before asking, "I almost forgot, you fellas said you wanted ice, right?"

"That's right! We almost forgot about that." Riku suddenly recalled their previous objective. "Captain Ukitake got too much sunlight and he needs ice to be cooled down."

"Okay then, one ice coming up." Olette said as they exited the kitchen. She looked at far corner of the snack bar and called out. "Excuse me. We need some ice over here."

"Give me a break." A figured moaned as he sat up, revealing himself to be Hitsugaya. "I told him this would happen if he over did it."

"Tōshirō! What are you doing here!?" Ichigo exclaimed.

"And why aren't you outside with the others!?" Sora inquired.

"I'm not real big on all that sunshine and heat." The young captain replied.

Goofy nodded, picking himself up. He was wearing green swim trunks and red life-jacket. "So Toshi decided to help us out here by making ice."

This cause Ichigo and Renji to hold in their laugh. "Toshi?" The former said before they began laughing uncontrollably. The white-haired boy gave them a death glare before looking at Goofy. "I thought I told you not to call that!" He bellowed.

"It's easier because your names too hard to pronounce." Donald retorted, still cleaning up Goofy's mess. His swimsuit was a yellow undershirt and blue swim trunks.

"Don't let his anger bother you." Momo said, exiting the kitchen with a plate of four sliced watermelons. "Little Shiro's just cranking in the heat." She wore a simple lavender one piece swimsuit.

Hitsugaya glared back at her. "Well you also stop calling me that! I'm still a captain!" He snapped, snatching a watermelon for himself. Kairi and Orihime smiled at Momo. "Momo, you're here to?" The former asked.

Momo nodded. "I was invited by Rangiku and since Tōshirō decided to come, I thought it might be fun. I also thought that coming here will help me relax and spend more time with him."

"Awww. That's really nice of you." Orihime complimented. Hitsugaya then cleared his throat, getting their attention. "Did you come here to make small talk or to get ice?"

With everything settled, Hitsugaya exited the snack bar and raised his Zanpakutō high as the others watched, wondering what he was about to do. "Rain Over the Frozen Heavens, Hyōrinmaru!" With one wave of his sword, a large ice dragon was shot forth, raising high in the air until it stopped. With his work done, Hitsugaya turned back. "It's all yours."

"Isn't it a little too much." Riku asked.

"Not really. Little Chef could use them for some of his recipes." Hayner pointed out, then sighed. "Still, do we have to be here all day? I came to play at the beach." Olette nudged him on the shoulder. "Hayner, don't be rude."

Mickey chuckled before saying, "It's alright. You fellas can go have fun. We'll look after the rest."

"Alright!" The blonde boy cheered. Chad however, looked at Mickey and said, "If you need help, I'll do some work here."

"Are you sure Chad?" The orange-haired boy asked. Chad nodded back.

"In that case, I'll also offer my assistance here." Uryū said. "I'm pretty good at helping around in the kitchen. Besides, I also wish to see how well this 'Little Chef's' culinary skills are."

"Trust me, you'll be left with your mind blown wide." Sora said, as Riku and Kairi collected some of the ice they needed. As they left, Donald and Goofy walked over to Mickey.

"We're gonna go with them your Majesty." Goofy said. "Just for a little while."

Mickey nodded in understanding. "Sure. You guys have done enough here."

"We'll be back later to help around." Donald assured as the two made their way towards the exit, following their two friends. However, they then heard Uryū's screams coming from the kitchen.

"Hey! Stop that! OW! How are you even…ahh!"

"What's happening?" Chad asked, hearing some clanging from the pots. Donald and Goofy chuckled. "Guess we forgot to tell him about Little Chef's trick." The former said mischievously.

Momo also giggled as well. "It's like what he did to you when you entered the kitchen." She said to Hitsugaya, who grunted in annoyance while rubbing his head.

---

After returning to the beach with the ice, they placed it on Ukitake to help cool him down from the intense sunlight. After a couple of minutes, Ukitake began to feel better and much cooler thanks to the ice and could walk normally. Unohana made it clear that he should not push himself and if he should feel lightheaded again, then he is to get out of the sun immediately. The Squad 13 Captain agreed, albeit nervously, not wanting to upset Unohana as well. With everything said and done, everyone wasted no time in having their fun day at the beach. For a while, most of the girls began splashing around in the water while the others just watched from the sands. Starrk had actually fallen asleep on the ground and Lilynette was about to beat him for it. However, Sora pulled her aside and gave her an amazing idea. Together, they buried Starrk under the sand until his head was the only thing sticking out. Suì-Fēng and Yoruichi took off to go diving for fish. Lea brought out his Frisbee and challenged anyone interested to a game. Ventus, Aqua, and Isa took the challenged and were joined by some others.

"So you play by tossing this small plastic disc." Sung-Sun asked. Lea nodded. "Yep. We'll split into two teams and toss this baby around. The team that successfully sends it over the goal line earns a points. The team with the most points wins."

"A game of strategy. Sounds interesting." Mila Rose said, intrigued. Apacci smirked. "I'm in. This game sounds like fun."

"Count me in too." Hiyori said with a grin. "I can't wait to crush all you guys. Right Shinji!" The Vizard's leader looked annoyed. "Why am I playing again?"

He got his answer when Hiyori threw her sandal at him. Mashiro then ran up with her hand raised. "Kensei and I will play to!" She proclaimed.

"ME!? I'm not playing this dumb game!" Kensei snapped back. Mashiro fell to the sand and began flailing around. "WAAAH! Kensei's a big meanie and won't play with us!"

Kensei looked like he wanted to murder her but Isa calmed him down. "Just do it. It will save you the effort." The gray-haired Vizard begrudgingly nodded before accepting.

"I'm afraid I must decline." Hachi said. "I'm not suited for this type of sport."

"Sports was never my forte." Rose said. "No beauty in it."

"Pass." Love said as he was listening to some music on an CD player. Hiyori then looked at Lisa, who was reading a magazine before looking back at her. After a few seconds, she sighed before putting it down.

"Fine." She said as she stood up and walked over. Kyōraku happily appeared next to her with a goofy grin. "Well if my Lisa wants to play then perhaps I will-"

BONK

Kyōraku received a kick to the face and book bash from before Lisa and Nanao respectively. The latter sighed as she said, "I'm sorry. It's hard to keep him in line."

"Believe me I know." Lisa assured her. "Though the fact you could tolerate him is impressive itself." Nanao nodded before dragging him away, ignoring his pleading. Unohana watched the others prepare and looked up at her lieutenant. "Isane, why don't you go join them and have some fun."

"I don't know captain." Isane said nervously. "I've never played that game. And with my height I'd-eep!" She squealed when she saw her captain's expression darken.

"Isane." While Unohana had her smile, her tone was filled with dark intent. "I believe it would be a good idea if you played with the others now." Isane knew that if she said no then it would mean certain death. Without hesitating, she nodded her head and ran off to join the others.

Ulquiorra just looked on as the others prepared their little game and remained aloof for the most part. He failed to see how these games could bring such amusement to people. However, Aqua and Ven walked over to him, the former asking. "Ulquiorra, do you want to join us?"

"We have thirteen players and we need one more to make it an even number." Ven explained. Ulquiorra held a neutral expression as he listened to Ven's offer for him to join their game. He could have said no but when he said the others preparing for their game, the Fourth Espada felt this would give him a better chance to evaluate this sport.

"Very well. I will partake in this little game of yours." Ulquiorra answered. The two lead him over to where Lea and the others are. At the same time, the ones who weren't playing with Lea stood in line as Kyōraku, Ukitake, Unohana, and their subordinates stood in front as they had an announcement to make. Everyone looked up and saw a large banner that was placed above their heads.

"The First Annual Beach Art Competition!" Ichigo read the sign.

"So we're having a sand sculpture contest." Sora surmised, looking eager. Ukitake nodded. "We'll see who can build the most creative sculpture using sand and other objects throughout the beach."

"And we will be judging the competition." Unohana said, referring to herself, Ukitake, and Kyōraku.

"That's basically the gist of it." Kyōraku said. "You guys can either work alone or work together in teams."

"So we came all the way to the ocean just to play in the sand." Renji said, bluntly.

"Isn't that why we all came to the beach?" Goofy said.

"Yeah, but can we do something fun." Donald whined. Rangiku nodded. "How about a test of courage or smashing watermelons."

"You have games like those?" Pence asked, with interest.

"I don't know about this whole sand sculpture competition." Hayner said with crossed arms. "What do we get if we win?"

"The winner will receive an envelop of cash from the Head-Captain." Ukitake revealed, igniting sparks of interest from those native to the Ichigo's world or the Soul Society.

"I don't think that cash will do us any good." Riku said, referring to his friends who weren't native to their worlds. Fortunately, Nanao had the solution. "Don't worry. Master Yen Sid also agreed to sponsor a large sum of munny for the victor of the competition."

"I'm in!" Sora, Roxas, and Hayner said automatically. With that everyone grabbed their teams and hurried along to the sand to begin building their sand sculptures. The ones that did not leave were Rukia, Byakuya, Nel, Pesche, Dondochakka, and Halibel.

Kyōraku chuckled at everyone's sudden enthusiasm for the sand sculpting competition. "Guess a large sum of cash is enough to get those guys motivated."

Rukia nodded in agreement before looking over at her brother. "What do you think? Should we give it a try?" Byakukya gave a light nod. "The prize money holds no interest for me. However, I do find this challenge of artistic abilities to be intriguing."

The two siblings walked off to prepare for the competition. Halibel, Nel, and her Fracciónes watched them leave and the former third Espada looked on with interest as well.

"We Arrancars don't need money. But this sand sculpting contest will be fun." Nel gleamed as she looked at her successor. "Tier-Tier, will you be joining."

"I much rather stay and watch." Halibel declined. "However, your Fracciónes can be of great help."

"Yeah, we're gonna win this sand contest for Master Nel." Pesche said with determination as he ran off. "C'mon Dondochakka! We got work to do!"

"Right behind yah Pesche!" Dondochakka said, running along. Nel giggled and she ran off to join them, waving back to Halibel. "Wish us luck!" The current Queen of Hueco Mundo waved back.

---

Ten minutes in to the sand sculpture and everyone was already making headway on designing their own sand sculptures and already began to construct their sculptures. Sora looked over at the other members that were participating in this contest. Ichigo, Renji, and Ikkaku were making some form of temple, with Yachiru walking over with a crab for some reason. Rukia was making what seemed to be a badly made bunny that looked like it was melting. Byakuya was sculpting…some strange lump with arms, leg, and a face. Nel, Pesche, and Dondochakka were making a life-size replica of Bawabawa, which was pretty well made. Roxas, Xion, and Naminé made a sand sculpture that resembled Twilight Town's clock tower. Hayner, Pence, and Olette were constructing a sand replica of King Mickey's emblem. Donald and Goofy were building a sand statue of Donald…with large and exaggerated muscles.

"It looks like our design is finally ready." Riku said, having sketched a drawing of what seemed to be the castle of Radiant Garden. Lilynette looked at the drawing with interest. "So this is the castle of that Hollow Bastion world?"

"It's technically Radiant Garden now?" Kairi corrected. "Fortunately, after a year and a half of hard work, the residents were able to restore the castle to it's rightful glory."

"Yeah. I'm amazed they did a great job." Sora said. He heard from Riku and Mickey that Radiant Garden had been restored to how it was before it was taken over by the Heartless nearly eleven years ago. He remembered Leon telling him that the Restoration Committee have been working hard to return their home world to it's original state and was happy that their hard work paid off. It also made Sora wonder how things were going on between the members now.

"If we wish to construct the castle, we will need to collect a large amount of water." Nemu advised, appearing out of nowhere, causing them to jump in surprise.

"AAAHH! Where'd you come from!?" The child Arrancar exclaimed, pointing at Nemu. The Squad 12 Lieutenant looked at Sora. "I noticed your friend designing you sand sculpture and I wish to provide the best alternatives to see this to fruition."

Sora pondered for a moment before patting Nemu's shoulder. "Sure. We can always use another team member." Nemu's expression was still blank as she stepped over to an empty area, inspecting the sand.

"This area will suffice." She said before her left hand spun like a drill, before jabbing her hand to the ground. The others watched as several layers of sands and some seashells were being dug up from the drilling.

"Did you know she could do that?" Riku asked, surprised.

"No, but it's working." Sora said, nonchalantly. He then raised his Keyblade. "We just need a lot of water, right?"

Before he could cast his Water spell, Kairi stepped forward, stopping him. "Let's not use magic for this. Everyone else is building their own sand sculptures with their own hands. So it's only fair that we do the same."

The spiky-haired boy saw her point and called his Keyblade away. "You're right, Kairi." Sora then picked up a bucket and said, "I'm gonna go get some water. The rest of you help Nemu."

"I'll go help Sora." Kairi said as she picked up her own bucket before walking off. However, Kairi looked at Sora walking ahead with a serious expression. There was something she wanted to ask him and them being alone would be the perfect time to finally ask him what was on her mind.

---

Meanwhile, Orihime had partnered with Rangiku for the sand sculpting competition and were by the edge of the island, looking around the beach for something in peculiar.

"Rangiku, have you seen a bucket around here." Orihime asked. "We'll need water to wet the sand."

"Bucket? We don't need a bucket." The buxom woman proclaimed. Orihime looked at her in confusion as Rangiku cupped together her own bosom. "What do you think these are for?"

"We just squeeze our cleavage together and carry the water inside." Rangiku explained as Orihime said she was smart for developing this idea and they both start practicing it. However-

"It's broad daylight! What do you think you're doing!?" Nanao yelled, causing them to turn to her.

"Bobby buckets." Rangiku replied. Before Nanao could reprimand them, they heard voice coming from behind the rocks they were standing by.

"Please Sora. Tell me…what happened?"

They peeked over and saw Sora and Kairi standing by the shoreline. Orihime smiled and was about to call out to them when Rangiku covered her mouth, shushing her. Nanao glared at the her comrade. "What are you doing? It's not our place to listen in on a private conversation." She said in a hush voice.

"Ah don't be such a fuddy-duddy Nanao." Rangiku whispered. "With any luck, we might here a love confession happening."

Orihime blushed as she shook her head, pushing certain thoughts out. "No! No! I can't be thinking that!"

Rangiku shushed her once more as the three of them began to eavesdropped on what Sora and Kairi were talking about. Sora spent the next five minutes explaining everything that Kairi had asked him prior to arriving at this spot. Kairi listened intently for the most part but her expression fell as she looked crestfallen by what she heard. However, Sora held Kairi's shoulders and looked at her with a sincere smile, which filled Kairi with relief and she nodded while wiping a tear as she returned the smile. With nothing left to be said, the two grabbed their buckets and made their way back to where their friends were.

Unknown to them, Orihime, Rangiku, and Nanao were still hiding behind the rocks as they heard everything Sora had said. While most of what was said was too complicated for them to understand, the last thing Sora said is what they understood completely and each had their own reactions to it.

"Sora…no." Orihime whispered, her eyes quivering. Rangiku gnashed her teeth in frustration. "Damn it! Why…"

Nanao looked solemn as she pushed her glasses that nearly slipped off. While she just met Sora today, she could already tell that he was really nice and easy going just by speaking to him. Nanao looked at her friends with sympathy as she knew this situation Sora was in was not something that was easy to understand…or accept for that matter.

---

"Go long! Go long!" Ven called as he tossed the Frisbee over to where Isa was. Apacci tried to intercept it, but tripped and fell on the sand as Isa caught it.

"Lea!" Isa tossed the Frisbee over to his best friend. He was about to catch it when Lisa kicked him out of the way and successfully intercepted the catch.

"Nice job Lisa!" Hiyori praised as Lisa nodded. The game had been going on for fifteen minutes and the two were divided into two teams of seven, with Lea and Lea as the team leaders. Lea's team consisted of Ven, Aqua, Isa, Ulquiorra, Isane, and Sung-Sun. Hiyori chose Shinji, Lisa, Mashiro, Kensei, Apacci, and Mila Rose.

The remaining Vizards that chose not to partake in this game offered to act as referees instead. So far, Lea's team was in the lead with 11 points while Hiyori's team had scored 10 points.

"With that intercept, Hiyori's team now holds the advantage." Hachi narrated. "However, young Lea appears to hold spirit as he refuse to falter."

Rose smirked as he crossed his arms. "I must admit, this sport is more interesting than I thought."

Meanwhile, Lisa tossed the Frisbee over to Shinji who threw it over to Team Lea's goal. Aqua, who was the goalkeeper, tried to catch it but miss and fall down as the Frisbee soared over the goal line, earning another point for Team Hiyori.

"Looks like we're at match point!" Hiyori bragged, giving Lea's team a mocking grin. "Ha, Ha! You guys suck!" This cause Shinji to yank one of her pigtails, causing her to yelp.

"That's enough! Haven't you heard of sportsmanship!?" Shinji rhetorically asked, causing them to break out into a total argument. Apacci and Mila just looked at them annoyed.

"Man, can't those two do anything besides fighting each other!?" Apacci noted, annoyed.

"Like you and your two friends are any different by picking fights every five minutes." Ven retorted.

Mila Rose scoffed and looked the other way. "It ain't my fault the bimbo starts crap with me all the time."

"I start crap!?" Apacci yelled, outraged. She stomped over to her partner, glaring at her. "If anyone starts crap, it you Mila Rose!"

"Get real, antelope head!" Mila Rose snapped. "Everyone know that you're the one with the hot-headed temper."

"You two Neanderthals realized that you're only proving his point." Sung-Sun snidely said. "I know that your brains are to small and feeble, but please don't make me look bad to."

"YOU HAVE A DEATH WISH SUNG-SUN!?" They both roared. Lea groaned as he saw that Hiyori's team had now caught up with them. He shook his head and whistled, signalling his team to come forth. After a few seconds, they all began to huddle up.

"Alright we need a new game plan." Lea said. "At the right we're going, we'll lose before that sand building contest is over. Any ideas?"

"You are the team leader." Isa pointed out. "Aren't you the one who gives the orders."

"Hey! I'm open for suggestions!" The red-haired Keyblade Wielder retorted.

"Yeah right." Ven muttered. He then looked over at Ulquiorra. "Do you have any strategy."

The Fourth Espada closed his eyes as he pondered the situation. Then, he opened them and said, "In the midst of battle, it is practical that we analyze our opponents. Discover their strengths, flaws, weakness, and use them to our own advantage."

Aqua saw the point of his strategy. "Ulquiorra is right. If we can use their own flaws against them, then we can win the game."

"But we've only known each other for a short time." Isa pointed out. "I don't believe there is anything we know about them that we can exploit." That was true. They have not known each other long enough to learn of their personalities or natural talents. While they fought side by side during the Winter War, it wasn't enough for any lasting impression (unless you were Sora). However, Isane looked back at Apacci and Mila Rose and saw that they were still sniping at each other. She gasped as she remembered their previous scuffle that happened a few minutes ago.

"Wait! I believe I may know something." Isane said, getting her team's attention. She cleared her throat and explained. "As you saw earlier, those two girls appear to not get along very well."

"That's an understatement." Sung-Sun said. "Those two would have killed each other a long time ago had it not been for Master Halibel."

Ulquiorra nodded. "Halibel is the only one who can keep them in line. If not for her, they would continue to break into constant bickering."

Bickering? Aqua gasped as she realized something else that could prove useful. "I just remembered something about Hiyori. She has such a short temper that the first act of provocation will be enough to set her off."

Lea grinned as he liked where this was going. "If all goes well, we just might turn things around." After discussing the plan, the team breaks their huddle and faces off against Hiyori's team once more, this time determined to win.

"Begin!" Hachi yelled.

"Kensei!" Hiyori tossed the Frisbee over to Kensei, who caught it as he dashed forward but was stopped as he saw Ven and Sung-Sun corning him. "Kensei! Kensei! Over here!" Mashiro yelled, waving her arms.

"I see you already!" He roared before throwing the Frisbee over to her as Mashiro caught it with glee. She looked over and saw Apacci and Mila Rose were the closet to her. She decided to throw the disc over to Mila Rose, which she caught and saw that the goal line was just in sight. However, before she could decide to throw it over, Sung-Sun and Ven grinned as their plan came into fruition.

"Oh man! Apacci has it!" Ven complained, or pretended to at least, but was convincing as it got their attention. "Well, I guess it's another point for them."

"Regretfully, it is." Sung-Sun nodded. "Out of the three of us, Mila Rose is the most ruthless when it came to brute force."

Mila Rose grinned as she took all what they said as praise. Apacci however, looked in disdain at what they were saying. "And what do you mean by that. She couldn't even punch her way out of a Gillian's stomach!"

A tick mark appeared on Mila Rose's forehead as she glared at her partner. "You must be pretty stupid if you think that! If it were you, you couldn't even throw this plastic disc over an inch!"

"Oh Yeah! Let's say about that!" Apacci grabbed the disc but Mila Rose would not let go. "Stop it!" She roared as they pulled it back and forth, trying to snatch it away from the other.

"Will you two idiots knock it off!" Hiyori snapped at them. However, they eventually slipped and the Frisbee flew out of their hands, where Sung-Sun caught it.

"Nice catch Sung-Sun." Ven praised as he ran ahead.

"Thank you." She returned the compliment before looking back at her dimwitted partners. "You two make everything too easy." With a tongue stick, she followed Ven over to the opposing team's goal line.

"WHAT! Get back here!" They bellowed as they took after them, angered that they played them for fools. Meanwhile, Hiyori fumed at the two female Arrancars for falling for such an obvious ruse. "Those idiots. Fine, I'll get that disc back myself."

Ven smirked as he began his next plan. "Sure you can handle it, you little monkey?"

Hiyori came to a halt and nearly tripped regaining her balance. She shakily turned her head towards Roxas as her veins began to throb in ire. "What…did you…say to me?" She spoke with a deadly soft tone.

"You heard me monkey." Ven said with a teasing grin. He was informed earlier that the one of the signs for Hiyori's surname meant monkey so he decided to use that as a way to irk the pig-tailed girl. "The way you run says it all. In fact, you screech so loudly when you yell, I bet a group of monkeys mistake it for a mating call."

Shinji had collapsed to the ground, holding his stomach as he roared with laughter. The rest of the Vizards looked a looked concerned for Ven, mainly because they were aware of Hiyori's violent tendencies. Which was true as Hiyori was ready to explode in volatile fury.

"You…are…DEAD!"

"Made you look." With Hiyori and Shinji unfocused, Sung-Sun threw the Frisbee over her and was caught by Isane. The Squad 4 Lieutenant squealed in fright when she caught the Frisbee and Hiyori looked shocked at what just happened.

"They just baited you into a trap!" Kensei scolded her.

"Hiyori, get it!" Lisa instructed. Hiyori gave Ven one last look before changing direction, deciding to refocus on the game. She dashed towards Isane with a mischievous expression, making Isane even more frightful.

"Alright you giant broad, hand it over!" She declared as she lunged forward to grab the disc. However, Isane raised her hand high with Hiyori passing by and falling face first on the sand. When she got up, Hiyori rushed over and tried to grab the Frisbee again only for the lieutenant to lift her arm high with the Frisbee now out of reach.

"Why you!" Hiyori jumped repeatedly to grab the Frisbee. Unfortunately, Isane's tall stature made it difficult for the petite Vizard to reach it. "You tall…giant…high-heeled…ah!" Isane sweat dropped and did not respond to Hiyori's insults as she did not know how to act in this situation.

"I'll take that." Lea said as he grabbed the Frisbee and made his way to the opposing teams goal. However, he saw Kensei, Lisa, and Mashiro ready to intercept him but that left the goal line open and saw Ulquiorra already making his way.

Lea smirked. "Over to you Ulquiorra!" He tossed it and the Fourth Espada caught it with both hands. Having observed how this rules of this game has been played, Ulquiorra tossed it over the goal line. Lea's team cheered as they earned a point that put them in the lead.

"Looks like we're in the lead!" Ven proclaimed. Aqua nodded and gave a thankful look at Ulquiorra. "Thanks for helping us Ulquiorra."

The Fourth Espada remained aloof and said, "If you wish to thank someone, it should be the Squad 4 Lieutenant."

Lea nodded and looked at Isane with smirk. "He's right. That was quite a trick you did back there. Using your height to keep that half-pint from getting that Frisbee."

Isane blushed as she chuckled sheepishly. "Well…it wasn't intentional. I sort of acted on reflex back there."

"Still, it helped get us in the lead." Lea pointed out. "Try to use your height as an advantage. Got it memorized." Isane was speechless at what the red-haired man had said. She was always self-conscious about her height, but she never considered using her own height as an advantage before. She nodded as she smiled back at Lea.

As Lea's team deliberated on their next course of action, Hiyori was still livid on the fact that her team was made to look like fools because of those bastards.

"So they analyzed their opponents and took advantage of their flaws." Kensei mused. "That was some good thinking."

"Yeah, especially that little quip good ol' Ven made about you. I should've thought of that! Ha Ha!" Shinji chortled, which earned him a kick to groin from Hiyori. Shinji collapse to the ground in agony while Hiyori glared over at Ven, who laughing along with Aqua, Lea, and Isane.

"He's not gonna have the last laugh with this." She declared as she grabbed the Frisbee and, with all her might, she through it at Ven. The Frisbee flew with intense speed that would have hit Ven, had he not seen it and moved away just before the disc can hit him. However, the Frisbee continued flying at high speed as it neared the sand sculpting area, which was nearing it's end.

"Okey-Dokey Donald." Goofy called to his friend. "I think the sand statue is just about done."

Donald stepped back as he marveled at the sand statue of himself…with large and exaggerated muscles…and gave a smug smile. "He, He, He. Now this is what I call a first place work of art."

"You sure it's gonna help us win?" Goofy asked, looking uncertain. Donald nodded as he stood in front of his sand statue, mimicking it's pose. "What'd I tell you Goofy, this is going to-"

POW

The Frisbee slammed into the statue's upper half, crumbling it until all the sand toppled on top of Donald, burying him under all that sand. Goofy yelped at the sudden development and was concerned if Donald was alright.

"Umm…Donald-" Goofy was interrupted when Donald burst out of the sand in a fit of rage.

"Alright! Who's the wise guy!" He squawked as the duck glared over at the Frisbee game, where most of the people pointed at Hiyori, said girl nearly screamed at being ratted out.

"Well thanks a lot!" She sarcastically screamed. Hiyori then scoffed as she coldly looked at Donald. "It ain't my fault. That dumb blonde over their ducked out of the way!" She pointed at Ven.

Ven looked miffed. "You tried to take off my head with that thing! Did you think I was just going to stand there and take the hit!"

"Yeah! Cause that was it was for!" Hiyori snapped back.

"Yeah, and this is for you two!" The duck mage summoned his staff and shot two fireballs at the two, who jumped out of the way. Unfortunately, the fireballs continued flying until it struck…the sand statues that Rukia and Byakuya just finished building.

"Donald!" Rukia yelled after seeing her rabbit crumble. "You ruined my Chappy!"

"It was ruined to begin with." Ichigo offhandedly said, earning Rukia's ire. "What did you say!?" She demanded as she marched over to him.

"Will you guys quit screwing around!" Renji berated as Ikkaku continued working on the underground passage for their sand temple. However, Yachiru already arrived and placed the crab inside Ikkaku's loincloth.

"OOOWWWW! GET IT OUT! GET IT OUT! GET IT OUT! AAAAHHHHH!" Ikkaku screamed in pain as his flailing caused the sand temple to crumble down, burying him in the sand.

"Ikkaku what happened!" Ichigo exclaimed.

"NO! Ikkaku's been buried alive!" Renji panicked, seeing his friend underneath the sand. Even Rukia let go of her anger and looked concerned at the Squad 11 3rd Seat.

"Idiots! Hurry and dig him out!" Rukia scold before the three began to dig the sand out of Ikakku, all while Yachiru smiled widely and gave a peace sign. "Just the way I planned."

As they continued digging Ikkaku out, Renji unknowingly threw out the crab that was dug out of the sand and flew in the direction where Nel's team were constructing their sand sculpture of Bawabawa.

"I think Bawabawa is almost ready." Nel happily said. Dondochakka nodded as he finished his end of the tail. "Now all we's need is some water, know what I'm talkin' about."

"I'll get it!" Pesche volunteered, but before he could get the water, the crab landed all the way inside Pesche's swim shorts. The Arrancar paused for a moment before registering the pain.

"YYYEEEEOOOOWWWW!" Pesche ran widely as he tried to get the crab off his shorts. "OWWIE! OWWIE! OWWIE! OWWIE! OWWIE!"

"Pesche, what wrong?" Nel asked, concerned.

"There's a crab in my shorts!" He exclaimed as he kept running around, only to trip and fall on top of their sand statue, ruining it. Nel and Dondochakka screamed in horror as Pesche got up and continued to run around, screaming in agony. Not to far from them, the Twilight Trio were just finishing the Mickey Mouse sand statue.

"Looks like the Lucky Emblem is just about done." Pence noted. Hayner nodded as he brushed the sand off his arm. "Good 'cause I was getting tired digging through all that sand."

"Let's try to get a picture with it." Olettle offered, but then-

BAM

Pesche crashed into their sand sculpture head first, destroying it and was buried under the sand. With his legs sticking out, the crab exited his shorts and walked away. The Twilight Trio looked in dismay at the destruction of their sand sculpture.

"Well there goes the prize." Pence groaned. Hayner angrily kicked Pesche's leg. "Yeah, no thanks to this clown!"

"Hayner, that's enough." Olette tried to calm her friend down. Just then, everyone in the vicinity felt heavy as if the gravity had increased substantially. They turned to see that it was Byakuya, who had been frozen in shock at the sight of his destroyed statue. He recovered and his rage had been intensified as he began exerting an immense about of his spiritual pressure and took out his Zanpakutō.

Rukia and Renji gulped as they knew what he was going to do. "Brother/Captain…please."

"Scatter, Senbonzakura." He whispered as his Zanpakutō shattered into thousands of tiny blade fragments that resembled cherry blossoms. Before anyone could react-

BWOOM

A large explosion of spirit energy was released as the entire beach was buried in a mountain of sand from the resulting collision of Byakuya's Shikai. The party goers groaned as they slowly picked themselves up from the resulting attack. Nobody was harmed but nearly all the sand sculptures were destroyed, including Roxas' team.

"How did this even happen?" Roxas groaned as their sand statue of Twilight Town's clock tower was no more.

"Maybe a sand sculpting contest wasn't a good idea." Xion added, wiping off sand from her body. Naminé chuckled as she got up as well. "At least no one was hurt."

Kyōraku, Ukitake, and Unohana (who were unaffected by Byakuya's ire) causally stood to the side as if nothing had happened.

Kyōraku chuckled at the sight. "Well that certainly was a lively show."

"It did bring a certain performance to this event." Ukitake agreed as he drank a cold soda from Kiyone while Sentarō was straightening out the umbrella. Unohana giggled before proudly proclaiming. "Now then, the winner of the sand sculpting competition is…Team Sora."

"WHAT!" Most of the participants of the sand sculpting contest yelled in shock. They turned and saw Team Sora's sand castle still standing and unscathed.

"It's still up!" Ichigo said.

"How is that possible!?" Ikkaku asked.

"We were just lucky." Sora shrugged. He mentally chuckled as he had casted a Reflect spell to protect it from Byakuya's Shikai unnoticed. Of course, no one needed to know that.

"Since it is the only sand sculpture still standing, Sora's team wins by default." Ukitake announced.

"Ha, Ha! We won! Alright!" Lilynette cheered they gave each other high fives, sans Nemu.

"What are we going to do with all that munny?" Kairi asked.

"I'll save it for another time." Riku said with a shrug. Sora groaned as a thought came to mind. "Knowing my mom, she'll probably keep all that munny until I turn eighteen."

"Well you are still in high school. My father will probably do the same." Kairi said before turning to Nemu and Lilynette. "What about you guys?"

Lilynette just shrugged. "Arrancars don't really need munny. But it might come in handy one of these days."

"I will donate the money to Squad 12." Nemu stated.

"Well the sand castle thing was fun and all, but I don't think the beach will last if we keep going like this." Rangiku said as they observed the mess they made across the island. Starrk, who was freed due to all the sand burying him being blown off, groaned in annoyance as he sat up. "How's a guy suppose to get any sleep around here?"

"I'm surprised he slept through that." Sora muttered. Hiyori, wanting to change subject before anyone could blame her, says, "Alright! How about we forget all of this and play a new game!"

"Like what?" Lea asked. Roxas eyes lit up. "I know! Let's play Struggle."

"What's Struggle?" Ichigo asked. Lilynette, Apacci, Mila Rose, and Sung-Sun however, recognized that game and grinned in delight. "It's that game we played during your day off." Apacci noted.

"That's the one." Sora.

"Basically, each player begins with one hundred colored orbs. You use a Struggle bat to hit your opponent, causing them to drop their orbs and that person has to pick it up to increase their score." Roxas explained. "The players have sixty seconds to collect as many orbs as possible; they can also end the match early by collecting all two hundred orbs."

"That sounds like fun!" Rangiku happily proclaimed. Ikkaku nodded with a grin. "A battle game, huh? Just my thing."

"But we don't have any Struggle Bats or orbs." Xion noted.

"It's all taken care of." Olette said as she and Pence walked over to Hayner, the blonde saying. "Before we left, we had Mr. McDuck lend us a dozens of them so we could play at the beach."

"We brought about twenty-four bats." Pence said. "As for the orbs, perhaps Donald can make some for us." Everyone looked over at the duck mage, who smiled with pride. "Sure, why not."

Ukitake nodded as he liked the concept of this game. "I believe this Struggle game will make for great training. Is there anyone who wishes to participate?"

"I'll enter." Everyone turned to see Yuroichi and Suì-Fēng walking over with large bags of fish they caught.

"That's a lot of fish." Riku muttered. The Goddess of Flash Step winked as she said, "Just got back, couldn't help but overhear your little talk about this Struggle game. So how will this game work."

"Since there are so many people, how bout we split it into teams of two." Hayner suggested. Roxas nodded in agreement. "Twenty-four bats makes for twelve teams."

"That sound like a wonderful idea." Unohana said, Yoruichi nodding. "Now who's going to be on who's team?"

"Lady Yoruichi." Suì-Fēng cried out, immediately regretting it when everyone's attention was on her now. "Um…can we be one the same team?"

Yoruichi shook her head in amusement. "Sure." Suì-Fēng blushed as she smiled in pure joy, which Riku took note of as it differed to her stone face and stiff personality that he had seen during their battle.

"Hey Kairi!" Rangiku called out, getting her attention. "Why don't you go and be Sora's partner."

Kairi looked suspicious as she said, "I'm not really into sports. And I thought you would want to be Sora's partner."

"I would but Yachiru asked me first." She gestured to the child Lieutenant, who was waving her Struggle Bat around while laughing happily. "And you just can't say no to her."

Sora was busy thinking of he should get to be his Struggle partner. "Now who should I pick?" Suddenly, Nemu appeared beside Sora. "If it is in your best interest, I shall be your partner, Sora."

"Whoa! You have to stop doing that." The spiky-haired boy flinched in surprise.

"Why do you want to work with Sora?" Riku asked suspiciously. Nemu remained silent before saying, "For my own reasons." However, elsewhere in her mind, her master's voice called-

"This could be the only time we will ever obtain any useful information about the Keyblade. I don't care if you have to be glue to him, stand by Sora's side and gather all the data you can."

Those were her father's others and she was determined to follow through with it no matter what. With that, all those participating combatants were preparing to pick their partners and their Struggle bats. Renji had decided to team up with Ikkaku since they've had the best experience in teamwork from the team the former was in Squad 11. Roxas had asked Lea to be his partner but the red-haired man paired up with Isa, stating he wished to test out his skills against his best friend. Roxas agreed and instead offered Hayner to be his partner. Mila Rose and Sung-Sun decided to team up and saw Apacci and Lilynette bickering over which one of them was the leader, shaking their heads in disappointment.

Shinji had tried asking Orihime if she would like to be his partner but got kicked by Hiyori, who demanded that they be partners. Shinji asked why she would want him to be her partner and got kicked in the face again. Nel was asked by either Pesche and Dondochakka to be their partners but she kindly refused and said they should work together instead, which they agreed. After a few minutes, nearly everyone was ready and the only ones left without a partner were Riku, Ichigo, Rukia, and Ulquiorra.

Rukia looked over to determine her options. While she saw Ichigo as a friend, they probably would bicker most of the time before they could get any points. Even though Ulquiorra had become an ally, she still did not want to be near him (it was uncomfortable for her since he nearly killed them before). There was only one option left.

"I suppose you need a partner for this, Riku." Rukia asked.

"Yeah, do you want to team up?" The silver-haired boy asked. Rukia nodded and the two grabbed their bats and made their way to the beach. Ichigo looked around and saw that Ulquiorra was the only one that was left without a partner. The orange-haired teen gave the Espada the stink eye while Ulquiorra remained nonchalant at Ichigo's glare.

"C'mon Ichigo." Sora insisted. "Have some fun and join us."

"But do I really gotta be paired up with him!?" Ichigo pointed at Ulquiorra. The Espada then said, "With my swordsmanship prowess, obtaining victory for us will certainly be guaranteed."

Ichigo still seethed before Orihime placed a hand on him. "It's okay Ichigo. I…don't Ulquiorra is a bad person. He came all this way to play with us after all." Orihime said, sincerely. "Please, give him a chance."

The Substitute Soul Reaper was still miffed about this but decided to trust his friend's words. "Fine. Let's go." Ichigo and Ulquiorra grabbed their Struggle bats and made their way to the water.

"Donald, if you'd please." Olette said. The duck nodded and casted a spell on all twenty-four participants, bathing them in a sparkling light. The light faded and Donald smirked pridefully. "All done."

"What did you do?" Renji asked.

"We used Donald's magic to place the orbs within all of you." Naminé explained. "Remember, if you lose all your orbs, then you are out."

Ikkaku smirked. "A good way to weed out the competition."

Rangiku nodded beamed at everyone. "Is everyone ready?" she asked.

"We're ready!" cried Pesche as he and Dondochakka grabbed their Struggle bats.

Sora asked. "Who goes first?" Roxas smirked and replied. "Actually, since there are a lot of people, I decided that we should change things up and make it a battle royale."

"Sounds good." Lea smirked.

"I'm not complaining." Renji stated.

"No matter who my opposition is, I will smite them down with my blade." Suì-Fēng said fiercely, while Yoruichi said, "It's a bat."

Unohana and Ukitake chuckled at the enthusiasm of the participants before the former said. "The game will last for twenty minutes. We will stay and keep score of everything."

"Will then," Sora began, before saying, "Let the battle begin."

With that, all teams stormed on the sands and water, the beach becoming a battlefield of the Struggle battle. As the game went on, all teams challenged the closest team next to them and engaged in battle. The ongoing battle lead for many orbs to be scattered across the ground, leaving them to be either taken away by opposing players or for the owner to frantically try to reclaim them. However, one pair was not participating in the all out brawl and that was Sora and Nemu.

Sora groaned tiredly as he wanted to get in on the action. "C'mon Nemu! Let's try to take out some of the competition." Nemu remained impassive as she collected more of the orbs. "I recall the objective of the game to be to collect the most orbs within the allotted time. If we wish to win the competition, we must carefully observe the combatants." She spoke in a matter of fact tone.

"Well, Well, what do we have here." They turned to see Ikkaku giving Sora a leer-like grin. "If it isn't Sora. About time. Now I can get back at you for our last fight."

Sora grinned at him. "You mean the fight where I kicked your butt?"

Ikkaku grinned back at him. "Got to admit, I didn't take you seriously at the time. But now I'm ready. I plan on beating you in this little Struggle tournament of yours."

"We'll see about that." Sora said as he got into his fighting stance while Nemu stepped aside. Ikkaku roared as he launched forward, the combatants prepared to engage in what would have been a heated battle when suddenly-

"MY TURN!" A voice chirped as they saw Yachiru jumping forward suddenly…chomped Ikkaku on the head.

"YYYYYAAAAAHHHHH!" Ikkaku cried painfully as he ran around, trying to get the child Lieutenant off his head. "GET HER OFF ME! GET HER OFF ME!" Renji turned and noticed his partner was dropping a lot of his orbs, to distracted by his pain to even notice.

"Hey Ikkaku!" Renji yelled. "You're losing your-"

BAM

Renji was struck by a right hook and was sent crashing into a palm tree, breaking through it. Sora saw that it was Nemu who had punched the lieutenant and was shocked at the strength she had just displayed.

"I took the liberty of attacking my opponent that was off guard." Nemu said. Sora chuckled as he collected the orbs that they dropped as a result. "Well, whatever works I guess."

From the sidelines, Byakuya closed his eyes and shook his head in disappointment. "He should have known better than to let his guard down. If this was a battle, he would be dead."

Unohana giggled at his remark. "But still, it seems that everyone is getting into this fine sport."

Kyōraku nodded as he took a sip from his sake cup. "This is becoming very entertaining. Wonder which one will come out on top?"

Meanwhile, in the water, Pesche collected several orbs as he grabbed his Struggle bat, preparing for his next opponent. "Alright, I'm making good time and Dondochakka is pulling his own weight. Now, who are we going to go after?"

"How about getting rough with me." Pesche stopped as he saw Rangiku giving him a teasing smile while giving him a good view of her cleavage. Seeing Pesche's heavy blushed face, Rangiku goes in by blowing him a kiss, causing him to become more flustered. This however, left him open to be smacked hard by the buxom lieutenant's Struggle bat, stealing his orbs as he crashed further into the water.

"Help, I'm drowning!" Pesche cried, flapping his arms wildly as he splashed around. "I can't swim!"

"You're still in the swallow end of the water." Riku pointed out, causing Pesche to stop his flopping around and realized that the water wasn't that deep. "It's okay, everyone! I'm not drowning." He cheered.

"Unfortunately," Ulquiorra muttered as he and Ichigo collected several more orbs that were scattered around. While the former Espada focused on collecting more orbs, Ichigo took this time to speak at Ulquiorra.

"Listen, let's just get one thing straight; I don't trust you." he said plainly.

"You're still fixed on that?" Ulquiorra asked. "The woman is safe and Aizen is gone. As I have said, I have no intention of staging any pathetic acts of vengeance."

"But that still doesn't make me forget the others things you did. Like attacking Karakura Town with Yammy, forcing Orihime to come to Hueco Mundo, and nearly killing me." Ichigo scowled as he listed Ulquiorra's atrocities. "I'm not sure how the others can stand the sight of you, but I know you're not the kind of guy to just have a change of heart. So let me make this straight, if I find out that any of you Arrancar did something to Orihime…"

"We did no such thing," Ulquiorra told him. "Aizen wanted us to make sure she was well kept. And, while I can't speak for Grimmjow or Baraggan, it is not as if any of us attacked the Human city for our own pleasure. We were simply following orders. As it stands, Halibel is the new ruler of Hueco Mundo and if she wishes for peace with the Soul Society, then I am obligated to serve her."

"Besides," He continued as he spot a short glance at Sora. "I plan to follow through with my own path of life, and I wish to obtain it through seeing the world he saw."

Ichigo blinked in confusion, not understanding what Ulquiorra meant by that. However, before he could ask, his senses kicked into high gear and he jumped to avoid a Struggle bat that was thrown at him, spinning like a Frisbee. The Struggle bat flew back like a boomerang and returned to Lea's hands.

"Dang. Thought for sure I got you wide open." Lea moaned but smirked as he grabbed his Struggle bat. "Ah well, up close and personal is more of my style."

"What a coincidence." Ichigo returned the smirk and grabbed his Struggle bat. "That's just the way a like it to." Ichigo and Lea charged and clashed their bats, battling to eliminate the other adversary.

"As you can see, they are a rambunctious group, that they are." Isa said as he stepped in front of Ulquiorra, holding his bat to block the Espada's path. "Although, I much rather not have you achieve victory in this bout."

Ulquiorra nodded as he held out his own bat. "I agree. For this event, everyone aside from Ichigo are my enemies." The two opponents concluded their exchange and began their own battle as well.

"You're going down!" Mila Rose proclaimed as she swung her Struggle bat down, but Roxas blocked it and knocked her back. Before he could land a hit, he jumped to avoid and attack from Sung-Sun.

"Two against one? Doesn't seem fair." Roxas stated. "All is fair in a battle. Especially since we are fighting someone of Sora's level." Sung-Sun pointed out. She was about to attack when she blocked an attack from Hayner.

The blonde grinned as he held his ground. "Don't forgot, as long as I'm here, I've got Roxas' back." Hayner roared as he delivered a downward swing with his bat that Sung-Sun stepped back to dodge. The wind pressure blew her hair back as Hayner jumped high to swing his bat horizontally before going in for a stabbing attack. The Arrancar moved to the side as Hayner smirked before performing a wide-arc spinning attack, which nearly struck her face if she had not seen the attack coming.

"While your attacks are well developed, there is one flaw you have." Sung-Sun noticed Hayner's torso was unprotected and made her point by striking him their several times, knocking him into the water and stole several of his orbs. "You lack coordination and you're not skilled in counter-attacking." She said with a smug smile.

Hayner groaned as he picked himself up. "Great. Well, at least it's better than when Seifer makes fun of me!" Luckily, Roxas came to Hayner's defense and stood by his side as the two girls cornered them.

"Think you can keep up?" Roxas asked his friend. Hayner nodded with a grin as he got into a fighting stance as well. "I know I can."

"HEY LOSERS!" Roxas turned his head and was suddenly kicked in the face with incredible force. He was sent flying and crashed into the boating dock. The culprit was Hiyori, who smirked in triumph at her accomplishment.

"Ha!" Hiyori mocked as she collected Roxas's orbs. "That's what you get for humiliating me during the last game!"

"Geez snaggle-tooth, give it a rest already." Shinji said in annoyance, which earned him a glare from his partner. Roxas picked himself up and heard what Hiyori said, realizing that she was referring to Ven. Hayner was about to speak when he was struck behind by Apacci. Before Roxas could say anything, he received another kick to the head from Lilynette, though her's wasn't as strong as Hiyori's.

"You too?" He asked, exasperated. Apacci huffed in amusement. "Remember, it's a free for all. The more we take out, the closer we get to winning this thing."

"Besides, it's payback for what you did in during our fight." Lilynette retorted.

"Butt out shorty! I got a score to settle with him!" Hiyori retorted. The young glared back at her with ire. "Well I had a score to settle first and what do you mean shorty!? I'm taller than you!"

"Well you're still just a little brat!" She snapped back.

"KID!" Lilynette screamed as the Arrancar and Vizard glared daggers at each other, growling. Roxas looked worried and looked at Shinji. "Should we do something?"

The Vizard's leader just sighed. "Leave 'em be. They act more like dogs don't they." He chuckled.

"WHAT WAS THAT!?" Both girls kicked Shinji into the water and began to beat on him, while the others just watched, cringing.

By now, a majority of the combatants were engaged in heated battles with only two minutes left in the game. Riku and Rukia were running down the coastline when they were suddenly confronted by Suì-Fēng and Yoruichi, standing ten feet apart from them.

Yoruichi gave a teasing smirk, "Isn't this an interesting match up. Didn't expect to run into us in this game?"

Rukia gulped at the last opponents she'd ever want to fight. Both of them are captain-level fighters and renowned for their mastery of the Flash Step. Riku however, did not bulk down even though he knew how tough they are.

"No, but I've prepared myself in case we did." Riku said before suddenly disappearing, baffling both Suì-Fēng and Rukia while Yoruichi smirked with her arms crossed. Despite the ten meter gap, Riku's mastery over Airstep allowed him to clear that distance in seconds as he zipped past Suì-Fēng and made his way towards Yoruichi, ready to attack. However, just as he got within range…she vanished.

"What!?" Riku exclaimed, his surprised caused him to stumble. The current Captain of Squad 2 gasped before her expression became smug. "I almost forgot, when it comes to speed, Lady Yoruichi truly shines like a Goddess."

"Riku be careful!" Rukia cried. "Yoruichi is immensely skilled in Flash Step. Her raw speed earned her the title "Goddess of the Flash.". She's mastered this ability to the point where she can appear to be in several places at once."

Yoruichi appeared standing beside Riku, the silver-haired jolted as he jumped back. She looked snidely at him and said, "Not bad kid, but I've seen faster things."

Riku frowned as he grabbed his Struggle bat. "I hardly saw her move. I couldn't even keep up with that level of speed. It's almost as if she warped like Xigbar. No, not even his warping could keep up with her speed. And I doubt she was hardly trying."

"Anyways, how about we get things started now." Yoruichi said as Riku's eyes narrowed. "You may be faster than me, but that doesn't mean I won't go down without a fight!"

"Ooh, a feisty one. Kind of like Ichigo." The Goddess of Flash said, before turning to her former pupil. "You ready for this Suì-Fēng?"

"We'll crush them, Lady Yoruichi!" Suì-Fēng said with fierce determination. Yoruichi sighed with a shake of her head but smiled at her strong resolve. Rukia however gulped as she started to feel small. Not in stature but in power. All three of them clearly outclassed her and knew she would not even last a few seconds against them. However, she looked over and caught a brief glimpse of her brother from the spectator area.

"Rukia." She then turned to Riku. "Stay close to me and provide support from the distance." When Rukia saw his eyes, did her own narrow with determination.

"Right." She nodded, gripping her Struggle bat. "I can't falter now. Especially with my brother watching. Even if they are captain-class, I will secure as many orbs from them as I can!"

But before anyone could do anything, all present combatants stopped at the sound of the timer bell.

"And the time is up." Ukitake said, gesturing to the timer in his hands.

"What!" Hayner protested.

"Already!" Ikkaku exclaimed.

"We barely even got started!" Hiyori roared.

"It would have been over if you hadn't stopped to pick fights." Shinji snidely remarked, with Hiyori kicking his shin.

"Now," Unohana said. "the winners of this Struggle are Sora and Nemu."

"WHAT!" Most of the combatants exclaim in surprise as they looked over at the pair, Sora rubbing his head sheepishly while Nemu remained neutral as always.

"Allow me to explain." Nemu said. "As the rules clearly stated, the team with the most number of orbs will be the winners. However, many of you have forgotten the purpose and chose to simply eliminate your opponent in battle."

"You guys didn't even bother collecting the orbs, which made them easy pickings for us." Sora said, smirking slyly.

"So you avoided the direct confrontation and reclaimed the orbs that were spilled." Ulquiorra surmised, though secretly felt impressed by their tenacity.

"That's not fair! That was a cheap trick you pulled!" Apacci, Lilynette, and Hiyori shorted in unison. Sora just grinned mockingly. "Like the rules says, the ones with the most orbs wins."

"He has a point." Rukia noted. Suì-Fēng scowled. Nonetheless, she had to give them credit for taking advantage of everyone's heated competition to discreetly collect a large number of orbs.

"Regardless of how they claimed the orbs, they still hold the largest number." Kyōraku reasoned, drinking another cup of sake.

Sora chuckled as he turned over to Nemu, holding his fist out. "Great work out there." Nemu tilted her head as she looked confused. "Do you intend to hit me?" She asked.

"What?" Sora shook his head. "No. This is the part where we fist bump."

Nemu blinked. "Fist bump?"

"Yeah. It's something I learned in another world." Sora explained, remembering when Baymax taught it to him when they defeated the Heartless in San Fransokyo. "It's how people display excitement."

"I don't understand." She said. Sora grabbed her hand and formed it into a fist. "It's like this, just gently tap your fist against mine."

The Squad 12 Lieutenant looked confused but did as instructed, bumping her fist with Sora's. "Like so?"

The spiky-haired boy nodded. "Bah-la-la-la-la-la-la." He said, moving his fingers after the bump. Nemu tilted her head, confused. "Bah-la-la-la-la-la-la." She mimicked, assuming it was part of this fist bumping. Most of the spectators laughed at the display.

"Isn't that cute." Rangiku gushed.

"Humans do have odd ways of displaying feelings." Rukia noted.

"That's not how fist bumps usually go!" Ichigo argued.

"Hey Sora, show me how to do one!" Lilynette called as many others joined Sora, who laughed as he explained fist bumping. Meanwhile, Ulquiorra stood aside and watched as everyone continued having a good time.

"So, this is the connection you spoke about." Ulquiorra thought. "Through all your battles, you're heart connected with so many of the Arrancar and you forged connections with you own comrades through the Keyblade War." He then looked down on his own hand, remembering what he said about the heart being right in the palm. "There are hearts all around us, is what you said."

Kairi laughed as she looked around and noticed how happy Sora was, which made her smile in joy. "It's great to see everyone getting along; especially after having to fight against one another." Her smile then faltered a bit as she looked down. "I'm sure that's what you would have wanted to remember…before you have to leave."

---

The morning had past and it was only an hour until the sun would soon set. For most of the day, everyone was doing what they could to seize every moment of this special day. Riku, Apacci, Mila Rose, Roxas, Lilynette, and Terra were having a race around the island; Lea, Isa, Hiyori, Aqua, Ven, Shinji, Lisa, Mashiro, Kensei, and Isane continued their Frisbee with Renji, Ikkaku, Pesche, and Dondochakka joining them. The remaining Vizards along with Yoruichi, Byakuya, Kyōraku, Ukitake, and Unohana having drinks and exchanging conversations. Even Starrk joined them (due to Lilynette's 'insistence') and made an uncomfortable face as he raised a cup of sake. Kyōraku patted his back and encouraged him to drink up. Suì-Fēng sighed blissfully as she poured a bottle of sake into her mistress's cup.

Nemu, Kiyone, Nanao, and Sentarō stood on one side as Hayner and Olette stood on another side, cheering as Yachiru and Pence were blindfolded and holding large sticks. They were participating in a Watermelon smashing event and they were selected to be the first ones.

"To the left Yachiru!" Sentarō yelled.

"No, don't listen to him it's the right! It's the right!" Kiyone argued.

"Come on Pence!" Hayner cheered. "You can do this!"

"It's only a few steps to the left!" Olette advised. The two participants were in deep concentration as they closed their eyes to visualize the watermelons in front of them.

"Alright Pence, focus!" Pence inwardly said. "When it comes to food, you're the MVP!"

"I can do this! Nobody knows sweets better than you!" Yachiru mentally noted.

"I recommend moving five paces to you right." Nemu calculated.

"Just move…anywhere you feel like." Nanao awkwardly said. She was not very good at cheering.

"That's it! Just ten more steps!" Yachiru deduced as she walked forward, oblivious to the fact that she was going off course. Elsewhere, Donald finally sighed as he and Goofy just finished re-completing their sand sculpture of the duck mage.

"We sure did make one fine sand sculpture Donald." Goofy commended their work. Donald nodded proudly before summoning his wand. "Now to use my magic to freeze it and take it home." He said before waving his wand to complete his task…

"I got you now!" Yachiru yelled before raising her stick and-

SMASH

Slamming it down on Donald's stature, destroying it once again. Donald screamed in horror as Yachiru removed her blindfold and cheered in victory. "Hooray! I did it!"

"Yeah! You destroyed my sand statue!" Donald squawked in fury, getting in her face. "Do you know how long it took me to finish it again! What do you have to say for yourself!?"

"Heh, heh! You talk funny ducky!" Yachiru chirped in sweet ignorance. This was the last straw and Donald snapped into a fit of rage, his angry yells becoming inaudible for everyone to understand.

"Yay! He's doing a silly dance." She clapped while laughing in joy. Not realizing that Pence successfully smashed his watermelon, winning the game.

"Uh Donald. You might wanna calm down." Goofy advised, "Remember your temper."

---

Near the shore, Kairi, Orihime, Rukia, Xion, Naminé, Rangiku, and Sung-Sun were splashing around in the water. Rangiku splashed water on Orihime, causing her to giggle as she splashed her back. Kairi, Rukia, and Sung-Sun were tossing around a beach volleyball and Xion and Naminé gathered seashells, the former smiling as she and her friend admired their beauty. After several minutes, the girls sat on the boardwalk to relax after their playing was over. As they sat, Kairi recounted on the story of how Sora saved her during the battle at Hollow Bastion, when he regained his humanity.

"…after that, Sora was able to return to normal and defeat all the Heartless that surrounded us." Kairi said, finishing her story. "Despite having fallen to darkness, my voice was still able to reach him in the end."

"Wow. Sora really is amazing." Rukia breathed, surprised at Sora's determination to surrender his heart if it would free Kairi. Rangiku smirked playfully and nudged Kairi's shoulders. "I guess Sora really is your knight in shining armor. Makes me see how you fell for him."

"What are you talking about!?" Kairi exclaimed, embarrassed.

"I mean, a man goes out of his way to search the whole universe for you and he even gave his own life." Rangiku counted. "Heck, even I can't help but fell for a man like that."

"You got the wrong idea. Sora and I are just friends!" the red-haired girl argued.

"Sure." The buxom woman winked. Xion and Naminé giggled as they decided to change the subject. "Sora has also saved me too. More times than I can even count." The blonde girl said.

"That's right, Sora told us about what happened at Castle Oblivion." Sung-Sun said, remembering Sora having told them that story. "Namely, what you were forced to do to him."

Naminé chuckled sheepishly. "So you know. It's funny, what may have started out as a lie, I felt that I was lucky that I got the chance to meet someone wonderful like him."

"What do you mean?" Rukia asked, as she and the others that did not know the full story, looked confused.

"Let's just say, I was used by these people to do something bad to Sora." Naminé said, giving a short version of the story. "But even when Sora knew the truth, he still saw me as a friend, and fought so hard to defeat those people and save me." She smiled as she held her hands, "Then we made a promise, that we would become friends for real."

"And you two did." Xion pointed out. "I didn't get the chance to know Sora longer than you, but when I learned about him and heard his name, I felt happy for the first time in a long while. Like, a part of me was returning home."

"Looks like all three of you share a close bond with Sora." Rukia noted. The three girls nodded, smiling. "It's true. After all, Sora is connected to our hearts now." Kairi said. "And in the end, I'm glad he still came back as the happy Sora that I've always known."

Sung-Sun nodded with a warm smile. "I have to agree with all of you. Sora did have his immature moments, but that doesn't change that he is still the greatest person we've ever met."

"It's funny. Sora remains me a lot about Ichigo in some ways." Orihime said, recalling Ichigo's fights with Grimmjow, Nnoitra, and Ulquiorra. "Even when he fought so hard to save me, he never once lost sight of himself. He always stayed true to his word and vowed he would protect me, and bring me home so we could be together with our friends."

"You have a point." Rukia said with a soft smile. "Even when he was trying to save me, he still had his idiotic moments. But that's just what makes Ichigo unique. While a hot-headed and reckless fool, he can become a reliable fighter when you least expect it."

Rangiku giggled as she said, "Those two are more alike then they realize. If I didn't know it, I'd say they were long lost brothers." The girls laughed at the comment that Rangiku just said. As their laughter died down, Kairi turned her head and noticed Sora and Ichigo walking away.

"Kairi, what's wrong?" Rukia asked, noticing her expression. The red-haired girl pointed at and everyone followed her direction to see Sora and Ichigo heading inside a cave behind the waterfalls.

"Speak of the devil." Xion said. "I wonder where they're going?"

"Maybe they want to explore the cave." Naminé assumed. Wanting to know for herself, Kairi rose out of the water. "I'm going to go check on them."

"I'll go with you." Orihime said, getting out of the water herself. Rangiku followed suit. "This should be fun."

---

Inside the secret place, Sora lead Ichigo as they walked throughout the cave.

"So this cave was a total secret before?" Ichigo asked. Sora nodded, "Yeah. Riku and I stumbled here many years ago. We found it and decided to explore this place."

"What was it that you guys found in here." The orange-haired teen inquired. Sora smiled as they reached the end of the tunnel. They arrived at the end of the cave, which was roughly circular in design. Ichigo looked around and noticed several chalk drawings on the walls but what caught his attention was rock wall that was smooth and shaped like a door. It looked as if some door was once placed there long ago.

"I thought I'd find you here." The boys turned to see Halibel and Nel walking towards them, having entered the cave themselves.

"Nel, Halibel." Sora said in surprise.

"What are you two doing here?" Ichigo asked.

"We saw you two entering this cave and we decided to follow." Nel explained. Halibel nodded, "Please forgive us. We were merely curious, that is all."

"You are not the only ones." They turned to see Kairi, Orihime, Rangiku, and surprisingly Ulquiora, entering the cave as they joined the group.

"I saw them walking towards this cave and I joined them for my own curiosity." The Fourth Espada explained as he examined the entire of the cave. "What special meaning does this place entitle."

"I have to agree." Rangiku mused, not looking impressed. "It's looks like a dirty, moist cave."

Kairi chuckled before explaining. "It may look like that to most of you. But this place actually holds special memories for me, Sora, and Riku."

"How come?" Orihime asked, curious.

"This is the place that started it all; my journey." Sora revealed, much to the surprise of the others. "That area in the cave, that used to be the door that lead to the heart of our world."

"The world's heart." Halibel realized, her eyes widened.

"Then, this is the place where the Heartless entered and your world fell to darkness." Nel recalled Sora having told her the story of his first journey when she was still in her child form. Sora nodded in confirmation, "Yeah, and before I knew it, my journey began."

"That rights." Orihime spoke up. "Then you met Donald and Goofy and you three began to travel across many worlds to save your friends."

"Wow, that sounds like a story you oughta tell one day." Rangiku mused, not having heard the full details of Sora's story. Ichigo stepped forward and noticed something odd. "Wait, so what happened to that door?"

"After our world was restored, the door was sealed." Kairi explained. "Afterwards, it just vanished. We come by now and then to check out the Secret Place, but nothing's changed."

"So long as the door remains vanished, then your world should be safe from any outside threats." Ulquiorra said. Meanwhile, Rangiku and Orihime continued to look around and saw something in the lower corner that caught their eye. It looked like a drawing of Sora and Kairi's heads facing each other. Below them were there arms as they shared some sort of star-shaped object. The two girls couldn't help but giggle as they found it to be adorable, though were curious of the significance of that star they were holding. Before they could ask, they heard a voice racing inside the cave.

"Hey guys!" Lilynette called as she and Riku entered the cave. "There you are! What are all of you doing!?"

"Just doing some exploring." Sora merely said.

"Well we came to let you know that the others are heading towards the snack bar." Riku explained. "Mickey said that Uryū and Little Chef were finished preparing the food."

"The food's ready!" Orihime joyfully squealed.

"Guess it is time to eat." Ichigo said as he began leading the others out of the cave. Sora smiled and followed suit, but slightly lost his footing and stumbled forward.

"Sora!" Riku cried.

"Are you alright?" Halibel asked.

Sora quickly caught himself before he could fall, re-balancing himself. "I'm fine. Just tripped on a rock."

"You should be more careful." Ulquiorra said as they continued walking. Sora's expression became slightly sullen before snapping out of it and forced a smile, following his friends. Kairi, who was behind him, noticed his expression and was sadden as she knew what was really going on. Behind her, Kairi and Orihime were also aware of his expression and became concerned themselves.

---

"Alright everyone! Dinner is ready!" Momo happily called as everyone started sitting down on the chairs inside the snack bar. "I hope everyone has a big appetite."

"All the food was prepared by yours truly." Uryū stated, only for his hand to be whacked the rat's tail. He winced as he looked at Little Chef, whose arms were crossed in annoyance. "With…special advice from the chef here."

"And we have drinks to." Chad said, setting up the said beverages while the Quincy and Hitsugaya helped to present the meal that Little Chef helped to prepare, said rat rode on Uryū's shoulder. Meanwhile, Sora, Ichigo, and the others entered the snack bar, warmly greeted by the rest of the patrons.

"Looks like you guys are here." Shinji said.

"Now we can see what the chef prepared." Yoruichi eagerly said. Donald, Goofy, Hayner, Pence, and Olette helped to pass out the dinner plates as Uryū began to speak. "Thanks to Ms. Unohana, we were able to provide everyone with their most preferred menu items. I should also thanks Hayner, his friends, and Little Chef for helping to provide the ingredients."

Hayner smirked. "All in a days work."

Suì-Fēng's eyes narrowed as she eyed her food, which was Sole Meunière. "I still find it hard to believe that a rat has any culinary capabilities."

"I agree." Byakuya said as he received his spicy ramen, with the fish cakes shaped like the sand sculpture he was making. "Besides, I thought rodents were not allowed in the kitchen for health concerns."

"You shouldn't underestimate Little Chef's capabilities." Uryū advised. "I've made that mistake as well."

"He's right." Momo said as she sat beside Hitsugaya, who remained indifferent. "Try his food. It's really delicious."

Byakuya scoffed as he picked up his chopsticks and began to eat his spicy ramen. He picked up the noodles and proceeded to consume them…causing his eyes to widen as his thoughts rapidly to an early memory from his childhood.

(Ratatouille Soundtrack-Dinner Rush: Ego's Flashback)

A young Byakuya weeps as he injured his arm during his daily sword practice, showing his mother the bleeding cut. His mother gives his a warm smile as she hugs him, assuring him that he would be alright.

Later, with his arm tended to, young Byakuya sat down as his mother placed a warm bowl of spicy ramen in front of him. He smiled as he prayed in acceptance for the meal before taking his first bite. Young Byakuya smiled in pure bliss at consuming his mother's food.

In present time, Byakuya snapped out of his trans and looked back at his meal before continuing to eat, this time with great passion. Ichigo, his friends, and the other Soul Reapers were surprised at the display that the normally stoic and strict Squad 6 Captain was displaying. Suì-Fēng's expression was that of disbelief as she then ate her Sole…and was instantly captivated by the delicious flavor that the fish delicacy presented.

"Let me try." Orihime took a bite of her food before squealing in joy. "Waaah, it's amazing."

"Hey, this is really good." Kyōraku complimented.

"Yeah right! This is amazing." Yoruichi argued with a mouthful of food.

"Wow…you're really a good cook." Rukia said as she and Renji ate their dinner. "I wish my mouth was bigger." The latter said.

"My compliments to the chef." Hachi said with respect. Uryū and Little Chef gave each other satisfied looks as Sora chuckled, he and Ichigo walking towards them.

"Guess you two got along well." Sora pointed out. The Quincy nodded. "I will admit, I was a little opposed to having a rat perform the cooking. But I'm glad my worries were for nothing."

Little Chef looked happy as he nodded. Ichigo was still left out of the loop however. "I don't get it. How were you two able to cook so much."

Uryū smirked mischievously as he looked at Little Chef. "Why don't you show him?" The rat nodded and ran down his arm and up towards Ichigo's, scrambling himself up to the top of his head. He then took two tufts of his spiky hair, and tugged on one of them.

All of a sudden, Ichigo spun around. "Whoa! Wha-What is-" He exclaimed, struggling to get control of his body as he robotically began walking towards the counter top. Everyone looked one in confusion towards his actions while Sora, Donald, Goofy, the Twilight trio, Chad, Uryū, Momo, and Hitsugaya were too familiar with it.

"Ichigo!" Nel said.

"Ichigo, are you okay!?" Orihime asked, worried. Rukia watched as Little Chef shifted Ichigo's tuft and made him reach down to pick up a spoon. Donald laughed at the sight. "Ichigo's been hijacked."

"He's…controlling Ichigo with his hair." Rukia said in amazement. "Huuuh!?" Ichigo gasped as Little Chef forced him to pick up a knife.

Some of the patrons began to laugh at the sight of it all. "Looks like you became someone's puppet." Renji laughed.

"I'd say a dummy is more like it." Ikkaku sneered.

"Guess that spiky hair is good for something." Rangiku teased.

Apacci's laughter died down as she pondered on one thing. "Can you really control people like that?" Mila Rose and Sung-Sun shrugged, unable to respond. To test their theory, Lilynette pulled on Starrk's hair, only for the First Espada to yelp in pain.

"Guess not." Lilynette laughed as Starrk rubbed his head, looking annoyed.

"Little Chef did the same thing to Sora when the first met." Goofy revealed.

"He also did the same thing to Uryū in the kitchen." Chad pointed out. Uryū let out a light huff, not wanting to remember that part. "He also did the same thing to Tōshirō." Momo stated.

"Did you have to tell them that!?" Hitsugaya said in annoyance while the patrons laughed even more. Little Chef guided Ichigo to his seat, where he sat down with all his friends. Ichigo looked up at his 'pilot' in annoyance. "Okay, I get it now."

"That was quite a show." Lea chuckled.

"I guess that's how most of his cooking is done." Roxas surmised.

"He was the one who helped Sora with most of the cooking." Olette said. This fact surprised most of the people.

"Sora, you know how to cook?" Kairi asked.

"It was mostly thanks to Little Chef." Sora corrected. "I can still use some more practice myself."

Rangiku giggled before saying. "With a strong and handsome man like you that can cook, you're sure to make a good husband one day."

Kairi nearly choked on her drink while Sora blushed heavily. "I…I don't think I'm ready for that yet?"

"If I may, I'd like to ask something." Sung-Sun said, before presenting a star-shaped fruit to Sora. "Where'd you find that?" Lilynette asked.

"It fell from a palm tree during the Frisbee game." Mila Rose replied. "It looked odd so we wanted to ask you're opinion about it first." She referred to Sora, Riku, and Kairi.

"Well what you three found was a Paopu fruit." Riku answered.

"What's a Paopu Fruit?" Apacci asked.

"It's one of the fruits that's grown on the island." Kairi revealed. "There's even an old story about them. They say that when you share a Paopu fruit with someone really close to you, then you're fates will be bound together, forever."

"She's right." Aqua said. "In fact, I based the design of our Wayfinders because of that story." Ven and Terra both nodded.

"That's quite an interesting story." Nel said with a small smile.

"I think it's very romantic. Don't you agree Ichigo?" Orihime blushed as she looked at the person she had feelings for. Ichigo just shrugged. "I think it's okay. Not really into all that fate stuff."

Orihime looked despondent while the girls just gave a tired sigh as they knew how dense Ichigo was when it came to romance. However, Rangiku's eyes widened as she recalled why those Paopu fruits looked familiar. It was in that cave drawing of Sora and Kairi that showed them sharing those fruits with each other. If those fruits were said to bind two people's fates together, two people who shared a very close bond…

She looked over as Sora and Kairi laughed as they spoke about other things. A mischievous smile formed on the buxom lieutenant's lips. "Yeah. There's no denying it now."

However, she decided to let them enjoy their little moment. After all, there's no telling when his time will come up.

---

Thirty minutes later, once everyone finished their dinner, they began helping to close up the shop. At that time, Sora turned and looked at the clock and saw that it was a half hour past six. He knew that sunset would take place in about ten minutes so without warning, Sora got up from the table.

"You know, I'm feeling a little wiped out from all that eating. I think I'm gonna go get some fresh air." He excused himself.

Riku nodded. "Alright. Don't be gone for to long." Sora said yes as he left the snack bar. Kairi's expression fell as she knew what was going to happen, but before she could leave, Lilynette spoke.

"Guys, did Sora seem a little off?" She asked, worried. It wasn't just her. All of the people who were most familiar to Sora all shared equal expressions, as they knew something was bothering Sora.

"I know. It kind of felt like he was forcing himself today." Starrk noted. Nel agreed. "He's usually more cheerful when he's having fun. I hope nothing is bothering him."

"He did not suffer any life threatening injuries." Unohana said, Isane nodding. "Maybe he needs a cold drink." Kyōraku suggested, Nanao and Lisa giving him annoyed stares.

"Perhaps, he as too much on his mind." Halibel assumed. Mila Rose however, did not feel the same. "But he can always talk to us."

"Sora must be tired." "I know I would be." Donald and Goofy each said.

"Maybe some ice cream will help." "He could be feeling sick." "I can draw him a picture to help him feel better." Roxas, Renji, and Rukia suggested respectively.

However, what no one didn't notice was Kairi's expression, which was becoming more angst as she shut her eyes. Rangiku and Orihime looked at her, the later with sympathy while the former narrowed her eyes. Mickey lowered his head and pondered the situation. Riku turned and noticed his expression.

"Is there something on your mind?" Riku asked his friend as the King spoke, "I don't know. But I can't help but wonder if Sora's feelings has something to do with the…"

"Power of Waking."

Everyone present turned towards Orihime, who was the one who spoke those words. While most looked confused, Sora's friends were surprised by how she came to know that fact.

"The Power of Waking?" Ichigo raised an eyebrow.

"Orihime…how did you know about that?" Aqua asked. Orihime looked nervous at everyone's eyes on her. However, Kairi gasped as she realized where she could have heard of it.

"So, you were listening in on us." The red-haired girl deduced.

"She's not the only one." Rangiku said, stepping forward, looking directly at Kairi with a stern expression. "We overheard you and Sora talking back at the beach. I think it's time you come clean about what's really happening to Sora."

"What's she talking about?" Ven asked as everyone turned their attention towards Kairi. The Princess of Heart sighed as she knew that she could no longer hide this secret. Reluctantly, she confessed to everything.

"It's like this." Kairi began, "What happened was-"

---

(Flashback)

Sora and Kairi walked alongside the sand as they observed the vast ocean in front of them. Though they had both grown in this world, they were both filled with sense of nostalgia as it felt like a lifetime since they had been to their home. Even though it had only been a month, the time they spent in Hueco Mundo made the days feel even longer.

"I always wondered how far a raft could take us." Sora mused with Kairi giggling at his remark. "But with the Keyblade, we can go even beyond the farthest oceans. A whole ocean of stars that lies ahead."

Sora nodded. "Yeah. And within those worlds are friends that we've made." He said with a sorrowful smile. Kairi noticed this and decided to speak what was on her mind.

"So, do you want to tell me what's bothering you?" She asked. "I've noticed that ever since we left Hueco Mundo, you've been a little distant from everyone. It's like you're forcing yourself to move on."

The spiky-haired boy visibly flinched at his friend's remarks. "What!? Nothing's wrong! I'm perfectly fine-"

He then felt Kairi grip his hands as she looked him in the eye, with a stern expression. "Sora, we've known each other for most of our entire lives. I know when you are hiding things and I know it is when it's something bad happens." Her expression became more gentle. "If it's something really serious, then I won't tell anyone. But I want to know…what is it that you're hiding?"

Sora stared wide-eyed at Kairi, realization spreading on his facing. Of course, he and Kairi shared a closer bond than anyone else, so she was bound to notice things that others would not. Heck, Riku might already be suspicious but decided to say nothing. Knowing that he could hide this any longer, Sora gently removed Kairi's hands off. "Do you remember back when we fought Aizen? The form I took that gave me the edge I needed to fight Aizen with Ichigo?"

"You mean the Ultimate Form." Kairi recalled the name of that form and the immense power it gave him. "What happened?! Are you hurt?"

"No? It didn't have any effect on my health." Sora assured her. "But…like Ichigo, there was also a price that I had to pay for it."

"What was it?" She asked. Sora sighed as the moment of truth approached.

"My remaining time."

His thoughts drifted to the words Kalgara spoke to him when he was nearing life and death from the severe injuries that Aizen dealt him

---

"Do you remember the warnings that Young Xehanort and King Mickey gave you about misusing the Power of Waking?" Kalgara said.

Sora nodded, remembering that fact. "Yeah and that's how I ended up in Hueco Mundo. But aside from meeting Aizen, nothing terrible happened." He said, feeling that he was in good shape. However, Kalgara shook her head in contrast.

"You're wrong. As they had warned you, misusing the Power of Waking comes at the cost of losing you heart, vanishing to parts unknown." She explained, sorrowfully. "By all means, you should have disappeared the second you arrived in Hueco Mundo."

"Then how did he survive?" Xehanort asked, having listened to the conversation. Sora also looked at Kalgara as he was confused as well. The woman let out a long sigh before revealing.

"It was because of my power." She confessed. Sora's eyes widened as Xehanort raised an eyebrow. "Since you arrived at Hueco Mundo, I have been using every ounce of my power to stabilize your heart. That way, it would guarantee that you could still be attached to the Realm of Light until the solution could be found." Kalgara continued. "But as I told you, I can transfer all of my powers to you. But the price is that I will have to enter a state of hibernation until my power recharges."

"But what's gonna happen to me?" Sora asked. Master Xehanort however, came to the conclusion. "Your power was what kept the boy bound to our reality. But when he accepts your proposal, you will be drained of all you powers."

Kalgara nodded. "Yes. Meaning he will be back to where he started. Sora…you yourself will vanish from this world."

Sora gasped as he looked in shock by this revelation. Kalgara had used her power to keep him bound to this world, but receiving her power will mean that he would have to vanish from the Realm of Light. Have to vanish…from all his friends. "How long until your power comes back. Maybe you can bring me back when you've recovered."

His hopeful look faded when Kalgara shook her head. "It's not that simple. As I have told you, I am merely a spirit, a fragment of my former self. As a result, my power will replenish at a much slower rate."

Xehanort decided to ask. "How long will it take until your powers have recovered?"

Kalgara stayed silent for a moment, her lips quivering in sadness. After a few seconds, her mouth uttered the words, "Two years."

Silence filled the void as Sora took time to comprehend what Kalgara said to him. It was startling to hear that he will have to vanish from this world, but to hear that she would not be able to help him for two years was something he did not expect. But if she could not help him for that long, then what was going to happen to him?

---

Kairi stood silent as her mouth hung open as Sora finished explaining what happened during his near death experience. He revealed everything, about Kalgara, about having met Xehanort within his own mind, and the price that he had to pay was his remaining time. While it was too much for Kairi to take in, the fact that an ancient spirit had been living within his body since his birth, one thing she did understand was that the price Sora had to pay was more severe than she had realized.

"You're…going to vanish." Kairi repeated. Sora nodded as he looked at Kairi. "Kalgara said that it could take days or weeks, but I'm already starting to feel it. I don't have much time. It might end up happening tonight."

The red-haired girl gripped her left arm as she hastily said, "Let's talk to the King or Master Yen Sid. Maybe they can help-"

Sora raised a hand and shook his head, "Sorry, but it's too late at this point. Beside, even if they could help, it would take too much time which I don't have."

"Then I can help. I did help keep you from disappearing last time." Kairi tried to argue.

"Last time was different. Back then, my heart was nearly destroyed by the Heartless. This time, it's much worse." He reasoned. "Don't get me wrong, I've spent the last ten days trying to think of something, but…there's nothing any of us can do."

Kairi was a little hurt as she stepped back a bit. "Then, there really isn't anything we can do? You're going to disappear." She looked down briefly before looking back at the beach. "We should tell the others. I'm sure they want to-"

"Don't let them know." Sora said softly. "It will only make them feel worse. This day is meant to celebrate the end of the war and I rather they have fun playing than worrying about me."

"But…Sora-"

"Please Kairi, I don't want anyone else to feel sad for me." Sora gently said. "It's not like it'll do much for me at this point. If this is going to be my last day here, then I want to enjoy it with all of my friends."

Kairi looked down in hesitance. She really did want to tell the others but saw some merit in what Sora's own reasoning. If this is his final day before he would have to leave, then they should make this memorable for hims. Regardless, it's not like everyone finding out about Sora later was going to make this situation any better.

"Okay. If it's what you feel, I won't say anything." She said, though was reluctant to say it. Kairi sniffed as a tear began to fall from her eyes. "I just wish…I wish…we could've had-"

"We will see each other again." Kairi gasped as Sora placed his hands on her shoulders, looking at her with a sincere smile. "I mean, I have to come back. Or else I won't be able to keep my promise to you."

The red-haired girl gasped as she realized what he was referring to. "My good luck charm. You still have it."

Sora nodded. "I promise I would give it back to you, and I will. I know it's gonna take a little longer, but please…promise that you will wait for me."

Kairi gasped in surprise before smiling, relieved that Sora was not going to give up. If he said he was going to come back, then she had to believe that Sora will find a way. She nodded while wiping a tear as she returned the smile.

---

(Flashback End)

After finishing her explanation, Kairi looked and saw the reactions of her friends and allies. Many of the ranged from shock, horror, angst, and neutral for the majority. While they were still unfamiliar with Sora, they still felt some sympathy and sadness of his predicament. He was a good kid and willingly put his life on the line to protect their world from Aizen even though he nearly died.

"Oh no." Xion whispered.

"This can't be happening." Ven said with gnashed teeth. Donald and Goofy looked with wide eyes before the former groaned in despair. Mickey looked down in mild frustration. "I had a feeling that would be the case. But still…"

"It's not a surprise." Riku said. "It's like what we heard back at the Keyblade Graveyard, before he left. It was the price he had to pay for misusing the Power of Waking."

"Then there is nothing we can do." Terra said in a low voice. Aqua looked down in sorrow, "Sora."

Roxas gritted his teeth while Naminé placed a hand on his shoulder, but she to could relate. Lea held his face in grief while Isa sighed and closed his eyes. Ichigo looked over at his friends and the Arrancars, who shared their expressions, before looking back at them. "Hey, wait a minute! If this Power of Waking thing helps find people, then maybe you guys can use that to find Sora!"

"That's right!" Lilynette said with a hopeful expression. "You guys can use that power of yours to find Sora. Then, you can bring him back to wherever he disappeared to. Right?" Lilynette hoped to hear a positive response from Sora's friends that they could save Sora with their power. Unfortunately, her hopes were dashed when she saw their stoic expressions.

"The Power of Waking doesn't work like that." Mickey said sadly.

"Why not!?" Apacci demanded.

"The Power of Waking was meant to wake and restore sleeping hearts. Sora however, used its' power for the opposite; restoring hearts after they've completely faded from existence." Riku explained. "Even if it could lead us to Sora, there's no guarantee that we would be stuck in the same position as he is."

"But will Sora be fine?" Nel asked, worried. Riku looked down and let out a sigh. "We can only hope he will be."

Ichigo's fists clenched as he did not take this news lightly. In the short time that they have known each other, he and Sora had established a form of bond and friendship. Even though it was for a short time, they both knew that they would have the others back no matter how tough things got. Now, to hear that Sora was going to leave-

"DAMMIT!" He roared as he slammed his fist on the wall with enough force to shake the room. Everyone nearly jumped as they looked over at the troubled teen. "Ichigo." Orihime said as she walked over and saw the large crack he made when he slammed his fist. As his knuckles began bleeding, Ichigo hung his head low in sorrow. "I thought that I'd…finally had someone to fight with."

"Sora." Halibel whispered as her Fracciónes looked saddened at this grim development. Nel fell to her knees and hugged herself as Pesche and Dondochakka rushed over to comfort her.

"I can't believe this." Rukia softly said.

"That's…so sad." Mashiro uttered as the other Vizards were dismayed by this.

Yoruichi frowned. "He fought so hard for us and sacrificed so much in the process."

"How awful." Nanao said. Kyōraku sighed and pulled his hat down. "Well that's a shame."

"Such a heavy burden he had to bear." Ukitake said. Starrk gnashed his teeth as he tried to contain his own emotions. All his life, he longed for a friend that would not die from being near him. One that would be there no matter what.

"Damn it all." He muttered as he looked to his other half. Lilynette was feeling the same why as even tears began forming on her lone eye. "No…this can't…" No longer containing her emotions, Lilynette angrily glared at the Guardians of Light. "You…you guys knew this would happen to him, didn't you!? If so then…WHY DIDN'T YOU STOP HIM!?"

The Guardians did not retort as they remained silent, not blaming her for being angry at them. Kairi tried to reach out to her. "Lilynette, it's not like they-"

"SHUT UP!" Lilynette smacked her hand away. "This all happened because of you!" The red-haired girl flinched as she recoiled from the young Arrancar's harsh words. Without another word, She dashed past Kairi and ran past the entrance, leaving the snack bar and running towards the beach.

"Lilynette!" Starrk called and was about to give chase when-

"Let her go." Ulquiorra said. "She's needs time to herself." Riku nodded and looked over at Kairi, who looked saddened. Assuming it was because of what Lilynette said, Riku went to comfort her. "Kairi, you know it wasn't your fault-"

"I know that." Kairi said, turning to show her expression wasn't as sad as he thought. "I know that I'm not responsible for what happened. But…I can relate to what Lilynette is feeling. Sora was the first friend she ever had and to see him leave was too much for her to handle."

"Still, why the hell didn't he say anything!?" Renji fiercely said. "If he had told us then we could have gotten him help."

Unohana shook her head. "I'm afraid even Sora knew that our own medical expertise would not save him."

"Yeah but he didn't have to keep things to himself!" Lea asserted. "We could have stuck by him."

"We all would have." Naminé said. "That must have been what Sora wanted to avoid. He didn't want to spend his last day with us worrying about him."

Sung-Sun nodded. "It's true. Sora prefers putting others before himself. He wanted us to enjoy our day instead of his well being."

Uryū pushed his glasses up. "Sora is the type of person that carries too much. You can relate to that." He said, looking at Ichigo. The Substitute Soul Reaper looked at him with a glare before shaking it off, refocusing on the current issue.

"What are we going to do now?" Ichigo asked. Mickey contemplated about this, then looked at Donald and Goofy before smile as a thought appeared in his mind.

"Donald, Goofy. Did you two bring some of those fireworks from Disney Castle?" The King asked.

"We did your majesty." "But what are you gonna do with 'em?" Donald and Goofy said respectively. Mickey smiled as he began to explain his plan while everyone else listened intently.

---

Elsewhere on the island, Sora was fully dressed as he walked across the wooden bridge to a palm tree whose trunk curved to go longways, ending with it curving back upwards again. This was the tree that grew the Paopu fruits. Sora touched the tree trunk as he looked out into the distance, watching the sun beginning to set. He smiled desolately as he stared off into the distance to take in the scenery, enjoying it while he still had the chance to.

"SORA!" He turned to see Lilynette jumping up until she reached the boardwalk before running over to him. She stopped when she was just inches in front of him.

"Lilynette?"

"You asshole!" She yelled as she threw a punch at the boy. Sora made no attempt to dodge and took the punch to his gut. Although he did not flinch or recoil as Lilynette's fist did not register. However, he did notice her pained expression. "I guess Kairi told you?"

Lilynette sniffed as she pulled her arm back. "Everything!" She replied before hitting him repeatedly. "Why!? Why didn't you tell us you were gonna leave!? What happened to no more lies and secrets!? We could have helped you! We could have-"

She was cut off when Sora grabbed her wrist, stopping her onslaught. Lilynette looked up and gasped as she saw Sora looking at her with a smile before patting her in the head.

"That's just like you." Sora chuckled. "You've always been so hotheaded and impatient."

"Why you-" "But…that's always what I've liked about you." Lilynette blushed at Sora's kind remark.

"Sora!" They turned to see Ichigo, Riku, Starrk, Kairi, Orihime, Halibel, Nel, Apacci, Mila Rose, and Sung-Sun all walking over towards them. Sora smiled as he waved back to greet them. "Guys! You really-"

THOMP

Everyone gasped when they saw Sora collapsed to the ground. "SORA!" They ran over as Kairi kneel down and cradled his head while Riku was at his side. They looked and noticed faint glowing lights coming off Sora's body, showing that the process was already beginning. Sora looked at his arm and sighed. "Guess my time is up."

Ichigo walked over and crouched to meet Sora's level. "So you really are gonna go away. What's gonna happen to you?!"

"Where will you go?" Orihime followed.

"I'm not sure." Sora replied. "Somewhere outside the worlds borders. Maybe a dimension beyond the Soul Society and Hueco Mundo."

"You didn't have to do so much on your own." Nel protested. Halibel nodded. "The very least you could have done is told us."

"You're probably right." He said. "I just…wanted our last day to be perfect. I didn't want you guys to spend it worrying about me."

"Stop trying to act all tough." Apacci lightly teased. "We all know you're hopeless without us. That's why we make sure to stick together. After all, isn't that what…f-friends are…f-for." Tears began to drop from Apacci as her smirk faded and she could not contain her emotions anymore.

"Apacci…we promised to be strong." Mila Rose scolded but the way she clenched her fists showed she was also finding it hard to hold back her own sorrow. Sung-Sun looked at Sora, "Tell us, you will still think of us…wherever you go?"

Sora smiled and nodded his head. "You guys will always be with me. In my mind and in my heart." At the moment, the lower half of Sora's body was becoming transparent as more light began to flow out of Sora's body.

"NO!" Kairi and Orihime screamed.

"It's happening sooner than we thought!" Riku frantically noted. "They better hurry with those fireworks!"

Nel looked down, holding her left arm. "This was the price you paid for your sacrifice. You gave so much…for us."

"It was a tough choice." Sora said. "Don't get me wrong, I was caught off guard as well. But…when I think about…I'm okay with how things turned out." He said as he thought back to the time where he made his decision.

---

(Flashback)

"I'm so sorry!" Kalgara apologized as she bowed deeply. She had vowed to protect him but instead she shoved this option right in front of his face, knowing the outcome would put him at great risks. "I know this is not what you would want! I know I promised to protect you! Please…I won't force this on you if you don't want to-"

"I'll do it." Sora's voice said as Kalgara and Xehanort looked at him with mild surprise as Sora stood with his arms cross and a smile of determination on his face. "We don't have a lot of time, so we better make this quick."

Kalgara looked wide-eyed before shaking her head. "Don't you realize what is at stake. Not only will you vanish from this world, but you will also lose the powers you have already gained, including the Power of Waking. And without it, you can't return from the world you came from."

Xehanort looked at Sora and noticed his crestfallen expression, most likely downhearted by the choice that was in front of him. Aizen was a more powerful foe than any of them had realized and to beat would come at a great price. Regardless of how strong he was, Sora was still a child and was not ready to make such a big decision on his own.

"I don't care!" Sora's voice shouted.

"WHAT!" The spirit yelled in shock. Even Xehanort looked puzzled by his declaration. Sora looked at Kalgara, his expression never wavering. "There's a lot I don't understand…but I know that this is all I can do right now. I have to do everything I can to defeat Aizen. I promised my friends I would come back to them, and I'm not about to break that promise."

Both spirit and seeker remained silent at Sora's declaration, surprised by the look of resolution he had in his eyes. Xehanort broke his silence by letting out a chuckle. "Nothing is ever impossible if you follow your own heart. I know for a fact that it has never let you astray throughout your entire journey. Perhaps it is you that has grown in mentally than I did through my time as a Keyblade Master."

Kalgara sighed in amusement, agreeing with what Xehanort said. "I can't stop you can I?"

Sora shook his head. "Nope. I have to follow my heart." He replied with a smile.

The ancient spirit shook her head. "Then this really is goodbye." Saying those words made her sad but she knew that Sora's mind was made up. "Very well then. The process is simple. Hold my hand and I will transfer all my powers to you." She said, extending her hand. Sora looked at it for a moment, then looked at Kalgara before turning to Xehanort, who nodded his head.

"There isn't much time." The old master said. "When you return, use everything you can to defeat your enemy once and for all."

The spiky-haired boy nodded, smiling at his former enemy. "Gotcha. Thanks Xehanort…for everything."

Xehanort gave a nod as Sora turned back to Kalgara. "This isn't goodbye. We'll meet again and this time…I'll make sure my friends can meet you to."

Meet her to? Kalgara gasped as she knew what he meant. "You…want to free me from you heart?" Sora nodded. "Yeah. It worked for Roxas, Xion, and Naminé. So why shouldn't it work for you to."

Kalgara did not know what to say, feeling flattered that he would go so far for her, even though they barely knew each other. Then again, this shouldn't have come a surprise as that is just the kind of person Sora is. However, her expression slightly fell as she knew that she could never-

"Kalgara!" She snapped out of her thoughts as she saw Sora looking at her in concern. "Are you alright?"

She shook her head and forced a smile, hiding her true feelings. "I'm fine. But we must hurry. We don't have much time." Sora nodded and without wasting a second, took Kalgara's hand, resulting in them being engulfed in light.

---

(Flashback End)

After reminiscing, Sora peacefully looked at his friends. "…It's better this way…better than to let Aizen have his way. Yeah, maybe it's not how I imagined it, but I have no regrets."

"How can you say that!" Ichigo yelled, stepping forward.

"Ichigo, please…" Orihime tried to comfort Ichigo, but he continued. "How the hell can you so calm about this!? That means you can't stay with us anymore! You're gonna end up somewhere we don't even know! Someplace even worse than Hueco Mundo! Don't you care what's gonna happen to you at all!?" He clenched his fists tightly as Orihime and Nel noticed some tears beginning to form. Orihime walked over and held his clenched hand as she too began to weep silently.

As this was happening, Ulquiorra hid under the bridge and leaned against the pillar, hearing everything that was going on. "He's sad and angered at the feeling of having lost a friend." Ulquiorra thought. "Through the times they've spent, they come to see each other as kindred spirits and developed a bond that ties them together." He then saw Starrk, Lilynette, Nel, Halibel, and her Fracciónes share Ichigo's expression as well. "This is what it means…to share your heart with someone."

The First Espada stepped forward. "If we had fought harder…" Starrk began, looking down in remorse. "…If I had tried harder, we could have won without your sacrifice."

Sora let out a light chuckle. "Never thought I'd see you regret something. Most of the time, you're too lazy to even care."

"Well someone has to be the mature one." Starrk lightly said. "I mean that you're too reckless most of the time. It's know wonder why your friends often worry about you from time to time."

Halibel nodded before looking at Sora with a gentle look in her eyes. "I knew you would leave us, but I had wished it would not have been a final goodbye."

"Then don't let it." He said, to her surprise. "Even when I'm gone, it won't be forever. I'm gonna find my way back and then we'll meet again."

"How do you know that?" Ichigo asked.

"He doesn't." Riku simply replied. "He just believes he will."

Kairi, Orihime, Nel, and Halibel's Fracciónes giggled in response. That was so typical of Sora to never give up despite the grimness of the situation. Starrk let out a chuckle while Halibel huffed in amusement. Ichigo and Lilynette remained dumbfounded before smiling, realizing that there was truth to Sora's words. After all, it has come through for them during the toughest of times.

"Lilynette." She looked at Sora, who happily turned his head to the right. Following his direction, Lilynette and the others looked over…and to the Arrancars surprise was a beautiful, scarlet sunset beyond the horizon.

"Wow." Apacci breathed.

"So beautiful." Nel happily said.

Mila Rose whistled. "What a sight."

Starrk and Lilynette looked at Sora in shock as the spiky-haired boy knew what the young Arrancar was going to say. "Looks like I kept my promise. Tell me guys, what do you think of your first sunset?"

Neither had much to say at first as they were captivated by the way sun reflected off the ocean and how the sky had turned into a beautiful shade of scarlet. Back in Hueco Mundo, the sky was either eternally morning or night, never changing in the slightest. However, seeing the sky change color for the first time in their long lives was a majestic sight. They recalled Sora telling them about how seeing a sunset helps them forget about past troubles and focus on what they gained.

"I feel…like I've finally been freed." Lilynette said with bliss. "You were right, sunsets really are the greatest things ever." Sora felt happy at hearing Lilynette's words.

"You really can see a lot of things by looking at these sunsets. When I look back on it…" Starrk began, turning to Sora. "…It looks like I did gain something after all."

"And what's that?" Kairi asked.

"…a family." He replied with a warm expression. Everyone smiled at Starrk's response, happy for them. However, that was shattered when they say that Sora was now becoming transparent.

Riku sighed despondently. "We don't have much time left." He looked at Kairi, who nodded as she summoned her Keyblade and shot an orb of light high in the sky. When it exploded, Sora saw dozens of fireworks shooting into the sky before exploding.

---

The dusk sky was filled with multi-colored explosions as Mickey, Kyōraku, Ukitake, and Unohana commanded many of their friends to launch the fireworks. Hayner, Pence, and Olette came rushing towards them with a dozen more fireworks on their arms.

"Hey boss!" Hayner called. "We got some more firework!"

Ukitake nodded and said, "Good. Lay them with the rest." He nodded as the trio ran off to their positions. Uryū looked at Unohana as he set up his firework. "Captain Unohana, are you sure this is a good idea? What if the fireworks alert the residents of the neighboring island."

"Do not panic." The Squad 4 Captain replied reassuringly. "We had Hachigen surround the island with a Kidō barrier, leaving the residents unable to see or hear our activities."

"That makes thing much easier." Renji said as he, Ikkaku, Pesche, and Dondochakka lit their fireworks. Many of the other residents followed suit as they launched their fireworks at once.

"Alright fellas, you know what to do!" Mickey said as they nodded before lighting up more fireworks. Goofy lit his firework before looking at Donald. "Gawrsh, you think Sora's gonna like this?"

"What do you think? Of course he will!" Donald replied as he launched his firework. "We have to let him know that we're here!"

"This sure is a way to send somebody off." Rangiku noted, smiling as she watched the fireworks explode. Rukia nodded as she lit her firework. "Lets hope that wherever he goes, he'll always remember us."

"I'm sure he will." Naminé said as she and Xion smiled, looking up in the sky along with Roxas, Ven, Aqua, Terre, Lea, and Isa. They were all silently wishing that Sora would be safe wherever he was and that he would return to them one day.

---

"This is all for me?" Sora asked, surprised. Kairi nodded and said, "We can't have you going away without a proper send off."

"I'm surprised they all did this for me." He said as he continued watching the display.

"Of course they did." Riku stated. "You've touched so many lives during you time in Hueco Mundo and the Soul Society. We wanted you to know that."

Sora said nothing as he turned his head to look at the sky. A lot of things were going through his mind at the moment. While he may have ended up here on Aizen's manipulations, it may not have been that bad. Sure, he hated having to be used by Aizen, but many good things came out of it; He helped Starrk and Lilynette realize they were not alone; he helped Halibel learn what it meant to fight for others; returned Nel to her adult form; helped Ulquiorra learn what it means to have a heart; and encouraged Orihime to find her inner strength. Sora smiled as he felt at peace with himself and looked at each of his friends, who accepted him for who he was.

"It's funny. All this time I felt that I never gave anything to anyone before. That…all I did was meddle in things that weren't my business." The spiky haired boy revealed. "I wasn't anything special and yet the Keyblade chose my anyways. I always wondered why it chose me if I hadn't made anything special of my life. But when I look at…I feel that all my journeys to many worlds was so I could make friends with other people. To help mend their pain and connect with their hearts, like I did with Ven, Roxas, and Xion."

Sora smiled as a tear fell from his eye. "And…I think that's why I came to Hueco Mundo. Not because of Aizen's tricks, but also because the Keyblade sensed your sadness and wanted me to end your hurting. It's not like I did much for you guys, but…I was still glad that I got to meet all of you. You're all my…best friends."

Kairi, Nel, Lilynette, Orihime, Apacci, Mila Rose, Sung-Sun began to tear up while Riku, Starrk, and Halibel looked down with crestfallen expressions. Sora then said, "I wanted us all to have so much fun. I'm sorry that I wasn't able to hold out longer!"

"Who cares about that!" Lilynette cried as she ran over to Sora. "We don't care about any of that! We just want you to stay with us! You wanted to spend this day all happy and stuff! Well how can we be happy if you're going to leave us!?" No longer holding back her emotions, Lilynette cried into the skies. Starrk walked over and Lilynette buried her face into his chest, her counterpart gently patting her head.

As Lilynette's crying died down, Ichigo looked at Sora a final time with a serious expression. "Will you come back?"

Sora nodded without hesitance. "I will."

Ichigo sighed before smirking. "Then that's good enough for me! Besides, I think I get it now…even if you're not here, a part of you will be with us." Ichigo gestured by touching his heart. "You've already become a part of our hearts. And now…let us become a part of yours."

Sora beamed in delight as he nodded. He then looked at Riku, "Riku…"

"I'll look after Kairi." Riku answered, knowing what he would say. "Though, I don't think she'll need to be looked after."

Kairi giggled as she said, "I promise I'll get stronger to. So that when the time comes, we will find a way to save you. And then…we'll see everyone again."

"Really?" Apacci asked, hopefully.

Sora grinned as he nodded. "Definitely." By this time, the lower half of Sora had begun to fade away. Panicking, everyone rushed over to Sora's side as they saw his time was up.

Knowing their time was limited, Halibel spoke her mind. "You often said, that if one believes in something with all their heart, then their desires will be met. Then…I will have faith…that you will return to us."

Her Fracciónes were a little taken aback by this because they never thought their master would do something like this. Then again, they have noticed a change in her ever since Sora came into their lives. Not that it was bad because they've changed themselves as they never thought they would care for a human, let alone become friends with one.

"Goodbye Sora." Nel said as tears fell from her eyes, though she smiled nonetheless. "We will meet again. And when we do, let's play eternal tag."

"We'll never forget you." Apacci said.

"Thank you for everything!" Said Mila Rose

"Until we meet again." Sung-Sun concluded.

Orihime looked at Sora with teary eyes, which Sora noticed. "Orihime…whatever happens…remember to never give up no matter what."

The orange-haired girl smiled and nodded as tears began to fall. "I promise. Thank you for saving me. I'll never forget it."

Suddenly, Sora's upper body began to fade away. It was time for him to go. With the last of his strength, he lifted his right hand which Riku and Kairi held together. He looked over at Ichigo, who looked confused at first before Orihime held his hand and moved it closer to Sora's. All four teens joined hands with Sora as he looked at the sky in pure bliss, at peace with himself.

"They can take your world. They can take your heart. Cut you loose from all you know. But if it's your fate…then every step forward will always be a step closer to home." Sora thought before closing his eyes. The last that could be seen with specks of light floating across the sky as they were blown away by the cool breeze. Though he had to leave, he was proud to have touched the hearts of many people he encountered in this journey. Regardless of the chaos and strife that were dealt, he was happy and vowed to one day return to them.

Even if they were world's apart, they will always be connected through their hearts. Like how every world is connected by one great big sky.

To Be Continued…

A/N: Well there you have it. Honestly, this chapter was a lot longer than what I had expected. I'm sorry I took so long. I meant to have it uploaded after New Years but a lot of personal things happened, which I don't want to go over. However, I'm happy to say that everything has been settled and I was able to bring this chapter to a close. Another reason was a small case of writers block that I was dealing with at the time. For me, it always help to take a small break, watch a couple of anime, and play some games to help clear my head and get some new ideas.

Now let my point out that the Garganta used to bring the Bleach cast to Hueco Mundo isn't the same as the average Garganta used by the Arrancars. It's a mixture of the finished Garganta Kisuke built and the power of Yen Sid's magic that made this Garganta more powerful to traverse worlds. The only ones capable of using this are Yen Sid, Kisuke, Starrk, Nel, Halibel, and Ulquiorra.

Now, before I wrap things up, let me just say somethings about Kingdom Hearts III Re:Mind. I don't know if it was the Re:Mind story that I liked, or the Data Battles, or the fight with Yozora, but let me say that, in my opinion, everything was just so awesome to play through. I don't have an PS4, but my cousin was cool enough to let me play in his. Still waiting for when the DLC comes out next month, which is really a drag. I also liked how they returned Oathkeeper and Oblivion, along with the Formchanges for them and Double Form, which is similar to a new form I was going to give Sora in the sequel.

Some of the dialogue I used when Sora spoke to Kalgara came from Re:Mind. As for how this story goes, consider it a slight AU where the pieces of Kairi's heart was taken by Aizen and that's what lured Sora to Hueco Mundo. However, the Limit Cut episode is still considered canon and will be alluded to next chapter.

It's a shame that Rutger Hauer passed away before he could record any lines. But I have to say that I felt Christopher Lloyd captured a more villainous persona for Master Xehanort that was better than Hauer's but still not near Leonard Nimoy's version (in my opinion at least). Anyways, I digress. The next chapter is sort of an epilogue. It features the aftermath of war, what everyone plans to do from here on out, and a bit of signs of what's to come; the next antagonist of the story (which I'm sure you all know). I will also give an insight of Kalgara's real identity. Please read, review, and don't flame.

Now then, here's the final review time.

Haxorus knight: Sora will return.

Blazer777: Well no one is asking you to read this.

NinjaFang1331: Thanks.

Ricc850: Their reactions were understandable. Of course, Grimmjow was the one that took it the hardest.

Guest: Glad you liked the music number. Yeah, it will be disappointing when Yhwach decimates Las Noches, including the oasis. Don't worry, I have no plans to make Aizen a Keyblade Wielder.

Guest: They were mainly causal. Though it's hard not to be flustered when you have forward girls like Rangiku and Yoruichi.

Khy Dragon: You're welcome. Glad you understand. And even though it's late, I hope your Christmas and New Years was great.

Antex-The Legendary Zoroark: Glad you liked it. Look forward to what I have planned.

tigerdancer21: Interesting summons. But I believe they might be a little too OP to work with. I don't know much about Bismarck though, but I'll see if there's any room for him in the sequel.

: I'm happy you enjoy my story.

Guest: While I respect your opinion, I'm not going to retcon this chapter.

Guest: I respect your opinion but the chapter stays how it is. I included the singing because I wanted to be more creative than just write a linear explanation. As for Yhwach and Kalgara, you'll see soon enough. I haven't gotten that far in planning the story, but they'll most likely be surprised.

Hotstreak's crossover stories: Happy you liked my chapter. Yeah, Sora was quick enough to realize that if Genie's magic could not effect them, then it would not have had any luck on Ichigo. As for Baraggan, let's just say that he won't be the same when Yhwach invades Hueco Mundo. Yeah, Sora, Ichigo, and Aizen will battle Yhwach. Though that might change.

Uzumaki clan: Sorry you feel that way, but it stays.

Silverking619: I'm happy that you've enjoyed my story thus far. Yeah, Baraggan, Gin, and Tosen will live and return for the sequel. Yeah, much like in the Pride Lands, Sora still fantasizes about being king. After everything the Vizard's have gone through, helping them would be the first thing on Sora's mind. If not, then he'd give the Arrancar's a taste of paradise. I've read the KH mangas and I do find them entertaining. I haven't seen much of the filler arcs unfortunately. I did my best to have the Bleach and KH cast interact, mainly with the Frisbee and Struggle games that were involved in this chapter.

Taromaru: Much like Silverking and other frequent reviewers, I've enjoyed reading your comments on my story. I wanted to make sure that everyone would have their chance at getting back at Aizen. You're welcome, though Ichigo did not realize that he was fusing a Gran Rey Cero with his Getsuga Tensho. Regardless of Gin's behavior, I believe he truly did care for Rangiku and Izuru, most likely regretting his choices in his final moments. It was the same with Tosen as he truly believed in justice before Aizen got to him. That's why I let them live so that when the time comes, they can return and make up for their own mistakes and find redemption.

Yeah, that's just how those fighting manics are. I do have some plans for Nel and Grimmjow but I try to make it gradual. Even though he wants to be king, he's not ready for all the responsibilities of being one. Of course, he wanted to give them a taste of paradise, which is why he had Genie create an Oasis. You're right about the irony of how Sora did more for the Arrancar than what Aizen did. As for what happens to Baraggan, let's just say that some things will happen when the Wandeneich invades and he'll never be the same again. Sora kept it to himself as he wanted to make sure everyone enjoyed their final day, though told Kairi when she figured it out.

Guest: I have not watched the Seven Deadly Sins but I might give it a try now that Fairy Tail's over. I'm not sure if they'll be a crossover though.

Guest: Your description on the rankings of the Real Organization XIII is accurate.

Guest: No I'm not dead. Thanks for your concerns.