Me: So, Katsuki finally calmed down and we're back. Sorry for the wait! Also, among our return, the symbol of peace is here!
(All Might waves)
(Meanwhile, Deku is curled up in a corner muttering to himself: More like someone else followed me here. How does this keep happening? First Kaachan, then All Might. Mutter. Mutter. Mutter.)
Me: (frowns) It's okay Deku. People following you here isn't the end of the world.
Katsuki: OI NERD! QUIT MUTTERING! (Deku jolts) You should learn to not act suspicious when trying to sneak out of our world! I'm surprised more people haven't followed you by now!
All Might: I have to agree with young Bakugo. You do act suspicious.
(Deku begins to pout, putting up his hood)
Deku: I'm not that suspicious.
Silvia: As we cheer up Izuku, here is the brand new chapter.
All Might: Disclaimer! All the properties of Disney and Square Enix belong to them. Miss Oblivion J only owns her plot and OC!
Katsuki: Enjoy the chapter!
Chapter 52 - Protect What Matters
Lee… Nico, please wait a little longer. We have our hands full at the moment, Mare thought, sadly.
Ever since the mission to Neverland, Joker had been stuck in the infirmary. He'd broken free of becoming mindless, yet his body remained morphed. Over the past few days, he began to get better only having nightmares. Then, yesterday morning he fell into a coma.
Was he losing control? Was he going to become mindless again?
Had using Crystal Clear been all for nothing… Everything they've been through. Was it about to end? If Joker was becoming Mindless, then would Iris and she be next? Or was Joker the only one? Nico and Ashley were already missing. She couldn't lose Joker too.
Suddenly a hand wrapped around her back, causing her to look down. Iris, who sat in her lap, looked up to her. She gave a small smile. Mare sighed, hugging her tightly. Right, she had to be brave for Iris. She had to think positively for her sake.
Joker would be okay. He had to be...
"You two have been here since last night. Why don't you two grab some hearts in the dining hall real quick, while I watch over him," a female voice entered.
Mare turned around to see a mushroom with X upon the hat and Defender coming over. She hadn't heard them come in. She sighed deeply. "Oh, morning Dix, Neal. Nah, I'll stay here. Iris, could you get us some food."
Unwrapping her hands around the fortune teller, Iris nodded before jumping out of her lap and rushing off. As soon as the door shut, all eyes were on Mare. She hated when people did this. When she was back home, all eyes on you meant suspicion. Of course, Dix would be suspicious, she was still in the dark on how he even became this way.
"Has anything happened?" Dix asked, holding onto Joker's hand.
"He's been moving and grunting, but that's about it."
Dix let go of his hand, touching his chest. "He seems to be getting better. His inner core is less tangled and clearing up. He'll wake up soon enough. I suggest you stay here until then. I've got a mission with my daughter, so if you don't mind."
"Go, we'll keep a watch on him. Commander Dix," Neal says, giving a salute.
She nods before leaving out.
"I've spoken to Lady Tanuki, she sent her regards," He said, sitting down next to her.
The fortune-teller scoffed. "Just like Dark Hide, she wants us to do something but doesn't help us in return. One of our own is down and two are missing, and they won't tell us anything! We're nothing, but servants and subjects to them, nothing more, nothing less."
"At least Dark Hide gave his domain up for Mushroom 13. He is far kinder than his older sister. Lady Tanuki shows no kindness, only pain, and neglect. You're luckier than I am?"
Mare looked overseeing his scars and wounds. They wouldn't have been left by a normal method. "Is that why your body is in ruin? Why the wounds haven't healed yet?"
"Yes," He nodded. "The sleep elixir you guys feel asleep to and the many elixirs she used on me was crafted from black magic and alchemy. As a former witch, you must know something about black magic, right?"
"Yeah, I do," she answered. "Such magic is how I became a Heartless. Dark magic is capable of harming people whether by body, heart, or mind. It can't hurt other souls, but it taints the user's soul each time they use it. I guess since she isn't human she's able to use it without any drawbacks. She's dual-wielding alchemy and magic, which means she is on the level of a Grand Witch. All that power, yet she uses it to harm you. Why did you join her? Why are you still with her?"
Sitting down upon the ground next to her, he sighed, sadly. Their eyes met, and for the first time, Mare saw pain hollowed into them. She choked. "I have nowhere to go. Nico and his mates already killed my gang. I'm the last one alive. I have no one to call my friends anymore."
She looked away. Then, nodded her head and knocked herself into him. "We're friends and teammates. You can always talk to me about anything."
Neal chuckled, "Thanks, lassy."
~ In Starlight ~
With the turn of a tiny, silver key, the locked door to Cammy's study was unlocked. Opening the door, Merry switched on the lights, leading Phoenix - who was in animal form - and me inside. The study was the same as last time, so I don't understand why she said, "We have some weapons here." There was nothing, but books and papers.
I yawn, wiping my eyes.
"Look sharp, kiddo!," Phoenix snapped. He began to circle me, before sitting down in front of me. "You're going to see the best weapons crafted by the one and only Maria Hood."
"Your sisters and you have a mother, then why haven't I seen her?"
"She's no longer with us. My mother died during Ashley's birth," she said.
I froze. Died. She died when Ashley was born...
"I'm sorry… I didn't -" "It's okay," she said, yet her tone felt forced.
Anger and sorrow began to stir within her heart causing my antennas to wiggle. I couldn't see an aura yet. But, I didn't need empathy to feel how torn up Meredith was over her mother's death. Ashley was fourteen meaning she must've been without her mother for that long, while Ashley didn't have a mother in her life at all. And, no father either, which meant the only family by blood was Camille and Meredith. I frowned.
My mentor cleared her throat, "My mother was a blacksmith who crafted weapons unlike any other. After my mother's death, Cam and I packed up or sold off most of her weapons… yet these were left unsold."
She touched the photo on the desk, which caused the back of the room to shift. Slowly, the wall began to open a case with staffs, swords, knives, kunai knives, maces, and axes on display.
My jaw dropped. "WOAH!"
"My sisters and I each have one of her weapons. I have my baby, Chevalier Noir is among them, Camille has a claymore sword, and Ashley used to have a staff."
"She did!" She never told me about that! "What'd it look like! Tell me! Tell me!"
"It's this one over here…" She pointed to the staff. It was white with a golden star upon it, however, it was burned and a tad broke. "It was used til Ashley's last fight, so it has permanent damage. It still works though. In fact, Branden used it for a bit when he was learning to control his magic. But, unlike him, Ashley was able to control more elements and create her own spells. Sometimes… I kinda envied that power of hers since she was a prodigy."
For a moment, I felt a newer emotion feaster. Her aura was black, engulfing her. It wasn't exactly an emotion… Roku had told me that white and black auras weren't a magnification of emotion, but pure negativity or positivity. White auras meant love, while black auras meant -
Hatred? A foul odor filled my nostrils. I backed away, clasping my hands over my nose and mouth. Why? Why does it have a smell? Is her darkness also filled with it? Or is this what hatred just naturally is to an empathic. Roku never taught me this!
She stepped closer, "Nico, are you okay?"
The aura started to fade away -
"Y-Yeah," I choked. "I just smelled something bad."
"Yeah, I let out a fart. Sorry about that," Phoenix apologized.
I raised an eyebrow. Was he helping me or did he really fart? Or both?
"Phoenix, don't fart and not claim it," she said, annoyed.
"Sorry… you were talking. I didn't want to interrupt," he smiled, sheepishly.
My mentor shook her head, sighing. ("My child," she muttered.)
"Well, as I was saying Ashley, Camilla, and I all have weapons from the Campana and Hood arsenal. Now, so will you too," she continued.
I tilted my head, "Wait a minute, Phoenix has a pair of knuckles. Are they not from here?"
"Nope, they're actually from The Great Fable," he answered. I turn to him. "I got them three months after I was human, so I could protect myself against your kind when I went out into the worlds."
"Oh."
Walking over to the case, I stared at all the weapons. I turned to Merry who was right beside me. She gave a small grin.
"Nico, choose a sword… anyone of them is fine," she told me.
"Can I have all of them?"
"NO! YOU CAN ONLY HAVE ONE!"
"But, they're all so cool! Only one!" She nods. "Fine."
Scanning the swords, I tried to see the difference in style and stats. Meredith and Phoenix were happy to enlighten me upon them. ("This one is a rapier. It's mostly a fencing weapon. Its durability is okay, but upon armor-built opponents is a bit hard," Merry explained. "That one is katana. You see this one a lot in anime. It's also my mother's favorite weapon," Phoenix stated. "Meredith?" I asked. "Nope, my other mother, Veronica Hudson," he answered. "The katana is her favorite. She'd love to have this one it has high durability.")
"What's this one?" I asked, picking a big bronze sword from the hook.
"It's a Bust Sword," the vulpine told me.
The sword's weight caused my arm to drop. I winced as it hit the ground, shaking my body. "It's heavy!"
"Nah, you're just weak," Meredith said, taking it from me. She moved it around before putting it back on the hook. "It only weighs two pounds. Maybe, I should add weightlifting to training one day." She hummed. "This sword might be heavy, but it packs one helluva punch and causes a lot of damage. My mother would use this sword to show off during matches. She always made a huge profit afterward! But, my father didn't like it since we had to give all that profit back to Ansem the Wise to repair all that damage."
"So, what I'm hearing is your reckless nature is from your mother," I said, thinking back to the damage she did on the beach.
"Kinda," she laughed.
Like mother, like daughter.
Scanning through the swords, I picked up a curved sword that had a red hilt with three diamond shapes carved into it. I move it around getting a grasp of its weight.
"How about this one?" I asked them.
"A sabre. It's a bit weaker than the others but durable and perfect for quick attacks. However, it would hinder you in battle," she answered.
I want this one. Hmmm… Hellraiser should be a good name.
I hum before nodding my head. "Which is exactly why I need it!" I told her. I grab a stealth case putting the sabre in it, putting the strap around my shoulder. "The sabre isn't super strong, which means I can make up for it with my own strength. Since I'm able to use darkness, it'll be a breeze."
"You can't always rely on darkness ya idiot!" He hit my head.
"OW!"
Glancing upward, Phoenix stood beside me within his human. He gave me a playful-mischievous glare. "Not to mention, you're still going through cravings. Dustin was able to aid you this time, but if Kida or him aren't around then we're all done for."
"Can I carry blood in my pocket or something? That way I don't lose control," I say.
"Not unless you're a vampire. I'm afraid Oswald won't allow humans or hybrids to carry blood openly. It was a bitch to even get his permission to even allow me to bring Heartless through the barrier. If I had to pick another fight with him, I'd rather not. Kida and him both are stubborn mules. Ortensia is the only one who I can reason with. If anything, you're out of luck, Nico."
"I'm still going to use darkness. I can't hide that side of me anymore. But, if I do go berserk -" I give a small, sad smile. "Kill me. I don't want to take any more hearts again."
Both of their eyes widened.
"Woah, k-kiddo…. We'd save you before then," the vulpine reassured me.
I shook my head, ignoring his words. "Not if I've already eaten a heart." Giving my mentor a look, she began to bow her head. "Merry said it herself the moment I agreed to become a swordsman. If I use this weapon to harm someone for my own gain, then you'd kill me. So, please do if that day ever comes."
"I will. As your mentor, I'll do it. But -" She looked up with dreadful eyes. "As your creator, I'd hate to lose you. I know we've had our ups and downs, but I'd miss you."
"No matter what happens," Branden's voice enters.
I turn to find Branden at the door, with Sapphire next to him. He moved closer to us, giving a reassuring smile. "We'll try to stop you from attacking anyone or losing control. That's what friends are supposed to do, right?"
"Branden… Phoenix… you're not just my friends. You're like brothers to me. You're always around to help me when I'm in a bind or need encouragement. Thank you!"
I grabbed them both, giving them a big hug!
"Woah… kiddo. I -" "Let him be," Branden interrupted.
The vulpine sighed, "Fine."
Letting them go, I rush up over to my mentor, leaping at her to hug her too. Quickly, she moved away leaving me to plummet to the ground. I hiss in pain. OW!
From above me, Merry stood with her hands on her hips. "Sorry Nicholas, but you don't have time to waste. You're going to miss the bus at this rate! Also, are you sure that sword is what you want?"
Getting up from the floor, I dust myself off, then look around at everyone. "Yeah, this is the one I want."
~ And, Then ~
Entry 243
(November 24)
After a lot of debating, yesterday I finally made the decision to join Kida's army. I didn't want to sit around anymore, which is kinda why I haven't been writing lately. I've been pushing myself in training to get better and trying to restrain myself around hearts. What I did to Dustin hasn't escaped my mind nor has his blood's taste left my mouth. The more guilt I feel, the more I hate myself for not being able to control my instincts. For that guilt, I'll use it to stop myself. And his fear, I'll use it to remind myself of the monster I don't want to become again.
"Passengers getting off at Walt Street, we are here!"
I sigh looking over my entry, before closing Pal. Sticking my journal inside my new blue coat's inside pocket, then heading toward the bus' exit. As I walked the three girls who'd made fun of me my first day in Starlight, began to snicker and whisper again. ("There he is again?" one said. "Where do you think he got that hideous coat from? The trash!" another laughed.)
My cheeks blush pink -
Stepping off the bus, I threw up my hood and kept walking. Those girls never change, do they? I know they're just bullies, but I didn't like being made fun of. Nor my clothes. My coat wasn't trash or hideous. I bit my lip. I wish I'd stood up for myself. But, it was too late now.
Turning the corner, I entered a huge area of many run-down buildings. They were all open since people were going in and out of them, however, the buildings had signs slanted and colors fading. Since it had begun snowing lately, the rooftops were packed with snow and ice sickles. This was Disney Square? Branden had told me this was where Starlight began, so it explained why everything was so rundown. But, the fact that Oswald and Ortensia's house lived over here still made me wonder why they didn't live by the harbor or downtown. Instead, they were located uptown. How strange.
Finding the 13th Warehouse, I found four guys walking in. I didn't know where they were, yet each one of them had a distant smell like Aqua, Mickey, and Master Yen Sid. They were keyblade wielders! I trailed after them, following the last member who was dressed in green and black bearing a black X on his back. . ("I told you I knew where we were going!" one guy with red hair shouted. "Yeah sure, you did," another guy wearing a white wing hat answered, sarcastically.)
I stopped at the entrance of the warehouse. It was a two-story. On the first floor, it was huge and open with tables and chairs on one side and computers on the other side. Up the metal stairs, the second story was a balcony and had more stuff going back. But, I couldn't see everything up there. Roaming around, I began to look at all the fighters here! Most of them were older, packing muscles, and deadly weapons, but I spotted a few younger around my age armed from top to bottom. And, here I was with one sword…
There weren't any more keyblade wielders. But, there were so many people!
"All these people are fighters! I didn't know there were so many!" I exclaimed.
"Yep, there's a lot of fighters here," a girl's voice answered.
I turn to find Yuri, who was dressed in a long, white coat. "Hey, Yuri! You're a fighter too!"
"Not much of a fighter, but I am a healer. Kida wanted me on board to be a medic, just in case someone needed something stronger than a potion," She answered.
"A healer?"
"A white mage in order of words." I turn around, coming face to Dustin! My heart sped a bit. Even more, when I realized he had the red coat I'd loaned him, tied around his waist.
"It's the same concept. She's able to heal others using light. Doesn't aid us demons though," he added.
She and Iris are similar then, but Iris heals with darkness. My eyes spotted his bandages upon his arm. I frown.
"Sucks. If you weren't a demon, I'd be able to heal that wound you got from that dog the other day. I want to hurt that mutt for biting you!" Yuri cried.
Dog? Wait, I'm the dog who bit him! I frowned, touching my neck. Dustin had bitten me a few days ago, but his marks weren't as deep and rarely left a mark. Mine on the other hand... The vision of his bloody arm came to mind, causing my frown to deepen. They were deeper.
"How's your wound?" I asked, weakly.
"It's healing, but it still hurts."
As I thought, my bite marks are going to take longer to heal. Demons can't -
"Wait a minute… How are you here? Phoenix told me Kida hates demons, how'd you even manage to sneak in here?" I asked him.
"Oh, easy. I just entered through the front door," Dustin smirked.
I stared, dumbfounded. "Huh?"
Yuri giggled, "While Kida hates demons, she can't ban them from joining. This is their home too and Oswald said, "the more fighters the better". You're a demon too. So, how did you get in here?"
"Well, she allowed me to join because my roommate is a friend of hers. I thought she'd just let me join and no other demons. I didn't expect more of my kind to be here," I answered.
"Kida may be Oswald's right-hand woman, however, even she can't disobey Oswald's direct orders. She can't ban demons from joining even if she wanted to," she added.
"I wonder what made her hate our kind so much," I said, glumly.
Dustin pats my head, causing my antennas to move a tad. "Don't think about it too harshly. Not everyone likes demons or darkness very much. We're not everyone's favorites, however, who cares. We're here and not going away. This is our home, right?"
I began to perk up. "Yeah!"
"ATTENTION EVERYONE!" We turn our attention to the second-story balcony, finding a dark-skinned, buff guy holding a mic. He only had one arm, while his other arm was a gun. He wore thick shades, a moss green vest, dark baggy pants, and black boots. "Please quiet down! Our leader Kida would like to speak."
Kida approaches the balcony's railing taking the microphone. She scanned over the crowd for a brief moment. "For weeks, the streets of our city have been invaded by dark creatures dubbed Unkindness. They are evolved animals turned into Heartless created by an old friend of Oswald and mine - the Mad Doctor. The ones we have fought were just weaklings, however, please note that they will get stronger, faster, and more powerful as the days go by. If you are unsure of your strength, then don't hesitate to leave. We don't want you gravely injured in the fields. That being said not everyone will be in the field either. Half of you will be here at the base as backup or to report information, the other half will be out. There will be two groups since there are adults, teens, and children here. My group, Gamma, will be for those under 25. You guys will have limited time in the field and be given three off days through the week. Use them wisely."
She hands the mic back to her partner. "As for everyone 25 and up, you'll be with me," he explained. "For those that don't know me, I'm Barret. I'm also the owner of Seventh Heaven. As many of you are skilled fighters, we hope that you are wise enough to know your limitations and weaknesses and that you won't strain yourself. My group, Theta will be working when Gamma isn't able to. You guys will have two off days, but higher pay than them."
The adults began to cheer -
"What!," I shouted. I'm never going to repay Oswald at this rate!
"Still making minimum wage even here. Life sucks," Dustin sighed.
"You're overreacting. The pay you make here is higher than Starbucks' pay. Don't be so negative," she said, giving a smile. Her smile was so cheery and dazzling.
"So bright," Dustin and I said in unison.
The demon began to sulk. "You're not worried, because you stay with a friend. I have rent every month, bills, clothes, and food to buy myself. You get to mooch off of someone, ya leech!" Dustin snapped at Yuri. I jolted. I hadn't seen him mad before.
"At least, it's better than paying on my own. I have more munny to spend!" she snapped.
"Why sorry I -"
They continued to keep fighting as more people began to pay attention to them. I stood there, puzzled. It's just like with Branden and Phoenix. How do I get them to stop?
In a flash, a girl with blond hair and wearing a tan trench coat came bolting in!
"SHUT!" Kally grabbed Yuri and Dustin by their collars, before lifting them up. "UP!" Quickly, she threw them down to the ground.
Everyone gasped and the room fell silent in seconds.
"Can't you two not argue in front of our leaders! You two should have more respect for Kida and Barret? Do that again and I'll make you hurt more. Did I make myself clear?" Kally demanded.
"Crystal," Yuri groaned, giving a weak chuckle.
"Sorry for arguing," Dustin moaned, hissing in pain. He must've landed on his bad arm. Ow!
Kida glared at Dustin from above before looking at everyone else. Barret hands her the mic back. "As we were saying before the interruption, we will not be choosing in-field or out-field ourselves since we know most of you. Instead, to keep everything fair, we'll be having the mayor's wife, Ortensia, be the one placing you within the different factions," she added.
"How is this not biased?" the green guy I followed in retorted.
Of course, he wasn't the only one who felt this way, so did his friends along with every kid, teenager, and adult in this building. I groaned feeling everyone's worry, beginning to feel my body weighed down by it. Suddenly Yuri linked my arm, she was nervous as well which in turn made me more anxious.
Empathy is such a curse sometimes. I take a deep breath trying to calm myself.
"EVERYONE LISTEN UP! Ortensia is not going to be basing your position on personality or if you know her. She will be analyzing your speed, strength, and knowledge using her powers," Barret informed, which caused everyone's worries to calm down. But, a few people were still a little uneasy about this process. "Come up, one by one to get your position!"
One of the keyblade wielders went up first. The guy dressed in blue attire went before everyone upon the balcony steps, stopping three steps down. After a few moments, a faint silver glow covered his body.
My jaw dropped in awe. "Her power! I've never heard of anything like that. What is it?" I asked.
"It's a common ability called Scan, however, it's never used like this. A lot of people use it on enemies to know their opponent's weak points or how much health they have left. But, Scan having knowledge on strength and stuff is news to me," Kally explained.
"Kally, next time, can you just slap us? You know I have a wounded arm," Dustin grumbled, holding his arm.
"Oh, sorry about that, Dust," she says, before pulling out a small jar."As an apology, here is a bit of cure ointment. It should aid your arms recovery."
"Thank you, Kally. I'm glad some girls are nice to me," Dustin said, giving Yuri a glare.
Letting me go, Yuri scoffed before heading into the crowd. Kally shook her head, giving a deep sigh.
"If you're here Kally, then is Azula here as well?" I asked.
The heiress frowned. "Not today. Her mother left early yesterday for a runway show and left her at the store for the weekend. She really wanted to join today too. I hope she'll be able to join tomorrow."
I frown. "That's too bad."
"Come on, we should get in line," Dustin said, leading us toward the large group of people.
After waiting for twenty-six minutes, I finally reached Ortensia. She gave a warm smile upon seeing me. I bent down to match her height.
"How are you doing, Nico?" She asked.
"Good so far," I grinned.
"That's good," she said. "My scan is complete. You will be in-field."
My grin faded in seconds. "What?" Did I not hear that correctly? She clearly didn't say -
"You will be here."
My eyes widened, She did!
I nodded my head, forcibly. "I… understand." I don't understand!
My legs move, yet they feel so heavy now. I walk back to my friends feeling like I'd lost all meaning to be here. I wanted to be outfield. This sucks!
"What'd she tell you?" Kally asked, excitedly.
I shook my head. "In-field… I'm stuck here," I say, sadly.
"What! That sucks! Maybe, she misread!" Kally shouted.
"Her reading wasn't wrong," Dustin said, glancing up to Ortensia then to me. "Nico isn't strong enough to face enemies. I mean you haven't been a swordfighter for very long and your dark attacks are kinda weak." Every word hit me like a bullet. "If enemies are getting stronger, then you need to get stronger too." He touches my left shoulder. "Don't worry so much. You're going to do great."
Kally touches my right shoulder, "He's not wrong. I heard from Oswald, you did manage to save Max on your own. You're powerful, so keep working hard and you'll be in the field in no time at all!"
"Thanks, Dustin, Kally," I say, wiping a few tears from my left eye.
"I heard my name. Did you call me or something?"
We glance over at the voice, seeing Max coming over to us. She was dressed in a hot pink beanie with a few pins attached to the right side, a purple coat with a gray hoodie underneath, jeans, and brown leather boots. She stared at her, awaiting an answer.
Kally waved her hands. "Oh, no I was just trying to boost Nico's morale. He is stuck as in-field and wanted to be in the outfield," she explained, pointing to me.
"I see," Max said. "Well, I'm on In-field too. I can't fight or hold a weapon like anyone else here, so I'm going to be an informant. I know I can't do much, but for my new home, I'll gladly fight to protect it."
Dustin, Kally, and I nod in agreement.
"Today, we'll be working with Theta. Tomorrow will be Gamma's turn!" Barret announced.
"Seems like we're being booted," Dustin sighed.
"Anyone want a ride home?" Kally asked, looking at us.
"Nah, I'll just teleport home," He said.
Teleportation! That's how he moved so fast.
She looked to Max, who shook her head. "I'm good," Max answered.
"I'd like a ride," I answered.
Kally pulled her keys out of her coat pocket, "Alright, let's go!"
Heading to the streets, a small way from the 13th Warehouse, a blue car with small snow piles upon it. This car was fancy and expensive-looking, unlike other cars I'd seen before. Then again, Kally was one of the twelve wealthiest families here, so I guess it made sense, but still.
Suddenly someone caught my hand, causing me to look back.
"Before you go, here's the coat you loaned me the other day," Dustin said, handing me Merry's coat. "Thanks for letting me borrow it."
I smile, "Oh, you're welcome. I'm sorry for destroying your shirt. Do you want me to give you munny for a new one?"
"Or I could since you seem to be low on munny," Kally butted in.
"Nah, you two can keep your munny. I'll buy my own. I'm a responsible person,"
Kally laughed, "Says the guy who ordered the whole collection of Fruit Basket's manga and spent about a grand! You could've been saving your munny instead of spending it!"
Dustin's aura grew as he began to feel a tad embarrassed. "I-I know… but when I saw the sale I just had to get it." Suddenly he began to gleam, looking over to Kally with passion. "You'd never understand how amazing the story is! And, now that it's done! I can finally reread it all!"
"You just want to see the hot guys again!" she shouted.
The demon shrugged. "Can't help it. Kyo is the best husbando."
Hus-what?
"Why do I know so many otakus?" Kally groaned.
"I've better get going. Au revoir!"
"Ao revar?" I repeated, yet it wasn't the correct pronunciation.
Kally laughed. "Do you even know what that meant?"
"Nope, but he said it to me last time we parted ways, so I wanted to say it back."
"Picking up French I see… you demons are something else," she said, getting into her car.
He speaks french. That's what those strange words are.
Getting into the car, I buckled up. Kally moves some gears before pressing her foot door and turning the wheel, causing the car to move. This thing wasn't like a Gummi Ship since it had fewer buttons and was a bit more comfortable. Slugging in the seat, I watch as we set out upon the street.
Suddenly I spotted a black coat walking down an alley, causing me to jolt away from the window. An Organization XIII member? What are they doing here?
"Woah, what's with you? You look like you've seen a ghost. Everything okay?" Kally asked, worriedly.
I shook my head. "Y-Yeah, I'm just kinda surprised y'know." I look at her, "I didn't think you could drive. How old are you anyway?"
"Rude! You should NEVER ask a lady her age!"
"Oh, I'm -" "I was just kidding around. Sorry!," she says, with a giggle. "I'm sixteen years old. I'm 4'0 feet, so I get mistaken for a lot younger. That's why I wear heels a lot. It doesn't help all the time, but makes me feel taller."
"So, you're a shorty as well. I'm 4'5," I smiled.
"Yay! Short Squad!"
We laughed.
"Wait a minute! I can drive a gummi ship and car when I'm sixteen, but can't drive a motorcycle until I'm in my twenties!" I exclaimed.
"Yep, but the reason why they have stricter rules on motorcycles is due to an accident. A teen lost their life, so that rule was added to prevent another teen's death. It happened years before I was born, but it had a huge effect." The heiress hummed. "Something tells me you want to drive Phoenix's motorcycle, am I right?"
"Yeah - Wait! How do you know Phoenix?"
"You ask that, but don't ask "how do you know where I live?" After all, you never told me where you lived."
"Well -" She has a point.
"When Pheonix and Meredith first arrived, my family, welcomed her. I mean we did own the Gummi Ship, Camille had rented. While they were adjusting to their new home, I acted like a tour guide since Camille had her own family to worry about. I was thirteen and a half back then. I'd just started transitioning so my hair was very short and Phoenix was still a fox. When Phoenix shifted from fox to human, I took care of him while Meredith was at work. He was a handful and troublesome, but sweet and protective." She sighed. "What happened to the Phoenix I used to hang out with?"
"What did happen between you two?"
"Just a dumb fight and every time I try to be friendly or greet him, he acts like I don't exist anymore. I know Branden and him haven't gotten along either. Phoenix cut his ties with Azula, Colton, and me. He was the one who told us that danger was coming during the party, yet after that, he hasn't come up to us again. If Branden didn't live with you, he'd cut ties with him too. Instead of his old friends, he just hangs out with his new friends, Dustin, or you. I'm not jealous or anything, I wish he'd forgive me."
The car stopped. "We're here. Sorry for rambling on… But, when you see Phoenix tell him I said "Hi". Okay."
"I will. Promise."
Getting out of the car, I wave my hand as she pulls out.
She rolls down a window, "Have a great evening Nico!"
"You too!"
Trotting into the house, I wondered about Phoenix. He'd shut everyone he knew out and replaced them. The thought of replacing the people I care about felt wrong. How could anyone replace someone? I've made new friends, but I'd never replace Ashley. But, maybe I did in a way or at least it felt like replacing. Ashley didn't like Mare, Joker, and Iris, yet maybe she felt like I was going to stop being her friend.
Is the way Kally felt how Ash felt as well?
I'd never do that to her. But, it's too late to tell her now...
~ In Vice Manor's Computer Room ~
Upon the booth's table, Iris sat across from Bishop who sat within the booth. They were sorting through books trying to find information about "Semi-Darkness". Since Dark Hide had lived here long ago, he'd kept records of all kinds of rare, extinct, and uncommon Heartless. If there was a way to help Joker wake up faster, then surely they'd find it somewhere in the Department of Knowledge.
Pushing another book aside, Iris gave a deep sigh. Nothing again! This is the second to last book and nothing! She sighed again.
Glazing over at the computer monitors, she saw the screen lighting up and dimming down as Roku clacked endlessly upon the keyboard. Even if he didn't like her brother, he was still rapidly trying to find answers to help Joker. Using her hands as a helicopter, she floated into the air going over to him.
"Roku, you're emphatic like Nico. Then… can you tell me Joker's feeling right now?" Iris asked.
Looking away from the left monitor, Roku turned his chair towards her. "Joker as of right now is happy. It's an odd feeling to have for someone in a coma, yet I guess it's better than more negative emotions. Your brother isn't falling to darkness anymore."
Iris flew higher with glee. "That's good!"
"It is for him. But, that brings me to wonder if Dark Hide's power was the reason he began to become mindless. I mean when a Heartless is blessed by a guardian they gain all their memories back for better or worse, yet they don't become mindless. Under a guardian's blessing, we serve them and they allow us to live. Of course, Team Shade was never blessed I know, however, still memories coming back shouldn't have done this."
"Not unless he was cursed," Bishop intervened.
"HUH!" Roku and Iris turned seeing Bishop coming over holding a book that was open to a completely black page with white lettering.
"That page! You - YOU DOLT! Dark Hide forbids us from reading those black pages! If he finds out, we're in trouble!," Roku retorted. His brother rolled an eye. "Don't you dare be annoyed at me!"
"What do you mean curse? A guardian can curse a Heartless?" Iris asked.
"The Guardians of Darkness are powerful beings. Nevermore was the first Heartless to ever exist, she added four more members - Bennu, Castor and Pollux, Tanuki, and Dark Hide. These five are known as OG aka Original Guardians. Around the decade they added Kitsune, Bennu began to experiment with curses. They were made to keep Heartless from not ever recalling memories and only obey their guardian. Yet it wasn't foolproof, since our nightmares are all our past mistakes, sorrows, and hatred memories. When their memories were complete, they went mad." Iris gulped. "Dark Hide was involved in one of these experiments. He gave a Water Core their complete memory and a mind, while Bennu cursed them. The result is how Joker turned out."
Silence filled the room.
"A curse did all that...," Roku said.
Iris began to shiver as she landed upon the ground.
"Do you think the Lucent Butterfly did that?" Bishop asked, closing the book.
"If that's the case, then breaking our kind away from Jade Mafia just got harder. We need to inform Uno about this and Dark Hide as well. If he knew of the cursing, then maybe he knows how to reverse it. Or he'll at least get in contact with the Black Star since he's the one who conducted them -"
Iris began to tremble, she sniffed trying to hold back tears. The twins paused looking down at the Tornado Step. Teams began to run down her cheeks.
"... T-This… Does this mean Mare and me are cursed too? Does that mean Nico could be cursed as well? Does that mean -" "You won't die. At least, I'm beginning to doubt it. Joker is recovering as we speak. Mare already has her complete memories back. Nico and you don't have many memories, yeah, but if you are cursed then you'll recover," Roku told her. He gave a sad look, jumping down from his chair and giving her a hug. "We won't let you two become mindless. I swear it."
Bishop bent down, giving his twin and her a big hug. "We've got your back. So don't worry about a thing," he says, hugging tighter.
"T-Thanks," Iris cried.
~ Back in Starlight ~
It was the first real day of work.
I was excited - Well not really, but I was trying to be.
While I wasn't going to be with Dustin and Kally fighting Unkindness, I did have a job to do. Even if it wasn't what I wanted to do, I could still help my friends out from here. It didn't matter where I was, cause either way Starlight needed to be protected. That didn't stop me from dragging my feet all evening. The only reason I stopped dragging my feet was due to me nearly missing the bus, which led me to have to run! By the time I'd gotten on the bus, I was regretting my decision to procrastinate.
Walking into the building, I stretched my arms.
"Ugh… why do I always have to catch the bus? I hate it!" I grumbled.
"Me too!"
I turn at the voice, finding Ms. Hawkin's son leaning against the wall. Slowly, Jim came towards me. He smiled, "Afternoon Nicholas."
"Afternoon Jim! You're in-field as well?"
He nodded, putting his hands within his umber coat. "Yeah, I mean I can fight. Just not as well as everyone in out-field. But, it's for the best, I don't want my mother to nearly lose me again."
Moving into the crowd, we headed towards the tables. I sat down on a circular table, as Jim sat beside me.
"Again? What happened last time?" I asked.
Jim's eyes lit up in a heartbeat. Quickly, he pulled out something from his coat pocket - it was a golden orb with lines and circles engraved into it. "This orb is a map that shows all the worlds including a gold-filled world known as Treasure Planet."
Gold! Joker would enjoy a place like that. I smiled.
"But, the planet was rigged to blow up so that no one could take anything. John Silver, two others, and me barely escaped. When my mother and I came here five years ago, I was hoping not to get into too much trouble or danger. I'm all my mother has, so I don't want her to lose me too. Ever since my father abandoned us, we're all we have y'know. I don't want her to lose me too."
"Yeah, I get that."
"What about you?"
"Placed here nothing more. I really wanted to be fighting, but they assigned me here," I sighed.
"Afternoon Nico!," Max's voice called.
Looking over, I see Max and a brunette-haired guy next to her. He wore a thick, black coat, blue scarf, jeans, and gray sneakers. He must've come with Max yesterday and I just didn't see him. There were a lot of people. I doubt I'd spot him or anyone else I knew in that huge crowd.
I jump off the table. "Afternoon Max. Who's this?," I asked.
"This is my friend and roommate, Warren. He's another survivor from my world," she answered.
Warren gasped. "You're the one that saved Max! You're a lot shorter than I thought."
"T-Thanks!" I bite my tongue from firing off. "It's great to meet you too."
Getting back on the table, I sat back down.
"Is Chloe here as well? Her mother said she was trying to join," Jim asked.
"No, Chloe at home," she answered. "If she was just going to be in-field, then she wasn't going to join. I understand her pain, but at the same time she already has an injured leg, so she doesn't need to get hurt again."
Suddenly someone's long legs began walking over us, sending everyone to look up. It was Ortensia, dressed in a pink jumpsuit, carrying a clipboard in one hand and a microphone in the other.
"Welcome, Gamma to in-field!" Ortensia said into the mic. Her voice echoed throughout the 13th Warehouse. "Kida is helping out-field, while I help in-field. Everyone here will be pinpointing Unkindness that appears around the world. Half of you will be telling locations of where they are and the other half will be giving commands to the out-field. I and my children will be helping you get adjectives."
"Children? But, I didn't see them coming in," a boy said. Looking at him, I noticed it was Tai. He wore a green sweater with his gray coat wrapped around his waist, dark pants, and jade-green shoes.
He'd joined as well? I thought, raising a brow.
Suddenly loud stomping echoed the building, causing many of us to gasp. I held onto the table, feeling the vibrations trying to knock me off. I turned towards the stomping just as many blue, yellow, and pink bunny children came dashing out. Some were small like the one I'd run into on my first day exploring Starlight others were the same height as Oswald. The taller ones wore black overalls and a colored shirt underneath or a black jumpsuit.
Everyone stared silently.
"Some. Many Bunnies!," someone gasped.
"Oh, this is only 50 of 420 of my children. Some of the others are being babysat by Branden and my husband, or helping out-field," Ortensia smiled, then turned to her children. "They will be assisting you. Please find a place you'd like to work for the day. It's time to protect our home!"
"LET'S GO!" Everyone shouted.
The first hour went by slow.
Warren, Tai, and I moved over to the tables and boards that held a blue visual map of Starlight and everyone in the out-field as red people. Two bunnies explained how to do coordinates and pin Unkindness down, which automatically sends the information to the informants. What we were doing reminded me of Roku and Bishop's roles in Mushroom 13, however, if there were multiple copies of them. Our mentor bunnies - Snow and Otis told us to think on our feet and send orders quickly so that we could minimize the damage and injuries.
By the second hour, things began to pick up as a swarm of Unkindness invaded downtown and uptown. We sent the coordinates then, waited, watched for more. Rinse and repeat, yet it was easy.
By the fourth and fifth hour, however, things began to become rapid. Unkindness kept appearing one after another. Some Unkindness was weak, yet then there were alphas. Those readings scared me the most. They weren't stronger than the Guardians of Darkness, yet these alphas had leveled up since my last encounter. So, I had, but these guys were on another level. So, imagine my surprise when Kida and Dustin working together took out one within a few hits.
It was then that I turned white as a ghost. Stepping away from the map, I stood at a loss.
"Nico? Are you okay?" Snow asked, turning to me. They gave a worried look.
"I'm… I just need a break. Excuse me," I say, leaving my station.
Heading to the top floor, I walked out to the outdoor balcony. Taking in the cold air, I leaned over beginning to look upon people walking below. There were so many people here still mostly toons like Oswald and his family. I take a few deep breaths.
"A lot to take in?" Ortensia's voice says.
"No, it's easy and I enjoy what I'm doing. It's just…. I really did want to be fighting. But, I'm not strong enough… Dustin and Kida are capable of taking on alphas in minutes. Meanwhile, I could barely take on one and save Max. I'm so much weaker than them," I answer.
"Nico, even the weakest fighter is capable of fighting strong appointments. You're a shadow Heartless, right? You've fought a long time to survive, what makes this any different? Because you're a hybrid? To be fair, you have more strength than a human. Weakness doesn't mean you are defenseless. I might not be a keyblade wielder or use a weapon like my husband, brother-in-law, or sister-in-law, but I'm capable of using my mind and outthinking my opponent. I'm weak just like you, yet that doesn't mean I can't take down stronger opponents. If I had to protect my family, then I'd fight anyone no matter how strong. I'll always protect what matters to me. Wouldn't you do the same?"
I turn around to face her. She stared at me, awaiting an answer.
I nod, "Yeah, I would."
"Good!" She smiled, heading back in. "You coming?"
"Just a few more minutes please."
She stopped, before nodding. "Of course."
The remaining hour, I spent working hard to pin down each target. Maybe, I was working faster and harder than Warren or Tai, but I really wanted to keep going. By the end of our shift, we all broke away and began to go home. Since I didn't have a ride, Jim and I caught the bus together. We were too tired to talk, so instead, we just watched people from the window.
Our first day was done.
Day two began quicker than the first one.
To mix things up, the previous people giving coordinates to out-field were swapped to the map, while Tai, Warren, and I along with others took their job. It was strange having something upon my head. My antennas didn't like the thick headphones at all, yet I had to keep them on to hear other people.
"I hate these stupid things," I grumbled.
"Sounds like you're adjusting well, Nico," a familiar voice laughed.
"Azula! You joined!"
"Yeah, I did. Ma is back in town so she's running the shop at the moment. It sounds like you missed me! I heard what happened the other day. Kally had to break up an argument between Dustin and Yuri."
"Yeah, she did."
"Those two…. Geesh. Well, I'm ready when you are."
For the rest of the afternoon to nightfall, I passed coordinates to Azula. I didn't do much else than that, but it went by faster as more Unkindness appeared. By the time we were done, we went home. Once I got home it was seven o'clock and dinner time, however, I just plopped onto the sofa and took a nap.
There within my dream, I saw a boy with hazel hair and caramel skin. We were on the rooftops of something looking out at the sunset. I didn't know who they were or their name. But, they seemed very familiar.
~ In Vice Manor's Infirmity ~
"Nico…," Joker mumbled.
Slowly, his eyelids began to open.
The thief turned his head looking over to see Mare by his side. She had her mask down, showing her mouth, agape. He blinked seeing tears fill her eyes. Suddenly he was knocked over by a smaller figure, causing him to wince.
"OW!" Iris kept moving around. "OW! OW!" Finally, she hugged him. "For the love of -" Suddenly Mare grabbed them both pulling them into a hug. He winced feeling his whole body crying out in pain. "I'm still hurting you guys. Take it easy!"
"You're up. You're awake!" Mare cried.
"We missed you, big bro!" Iris yelled.
"I missed you two, Iris, Mare. I thought… I thought… I was a goner," he choked. Tears filled his ears thinking of his dream. "I thought I wasn't going to see anyone again… Sorry for making you two worry about me."
"We're teammates. We'll always worry about each other," Mare says, letting him go. Iris let go, before sitting beside him.
"You guys are more like my family than teammates. What would I do without either of you by my side? Which is why… I'm so sorry that I had to put you two through this. I won't stray anymore. I won't run anymore. I won't hide anything again. I promise," he vowed, wiping away his eyes.
"If you promise that… then can you give me an honest answer? What happened during the fall of Radiant Garden? What happened fully? You've only told us parts, tell us the full story."
He sighed. "It's a long story. Not even Nico knows about it since this was... after he left on his own mission. It started the night a meteor shower eclipsed the sky…"
~ Meanwhile ~
Why did I forget Hellraiser? How did I forget my sword on a training day! I yelled at myself, racing down the street to the 13th Warehouse.
I'd fallen asleep earlier and slept for much longer than I'd need. By the time I'd woken up, it was 5 a.m.! I ate the dinner Branden cooked last night and was about to get ready for training. Then, found out I'd left my sword behind! I mean a lot of people left their weapons when they got there and picked them up when we were leaving, but I'd forgotten mine on the worst day!
Merry is going to have my head for this!
Grabbing the handle, I tried to open it, but it wouldn't budge. "It's locked… No one must be here yet."
I looked around making sure no one was coming, before putting my hands together, then placing them upon the door. My body began to phase into my shadow form. I passed through the door coming upon the other side. Inside I scanned around making sure there weren't any traps or anything here. For once nocturnal vision had its perks, I didn't see any traps. Creeping into the warehouse, I scanned around once more before heading into the backroom. Of course, no one was here, but being the only one in this place was creepy.
Grabbing my sword, I hurried to the exit and phased back out, being sure to hold onto my sword so that it didn't drop. For some reason, some objects couldn't phase with me. My clothes were able to faze with me due to them being upon me, but my sword and summon weren't able to. Merry said it was something to do with metals, something around there. I kinda wasn't paying attention to really understand why.
With a deep sigh, I began to walk towards the bus stop. I'd run here, but since the buses began running at 5:30 a.m., maybe I could catch it in time and be back by 7:30 Merry wouldn't add extra training if I made it by then, right? Oh, I hope not -
Suddenly a spike in darkness sent me to freeze -
"An Unkindness? Here!" Just my luck!
Drawing Hellraiser, I headed towards the smell. It had just formed. It was a vile smell of darkness, but it wasn't an alpha. Suddenly two screams rang out!
I bolted in that direction coming upon an alleyway. A large monochrome spider with seven beady green eyes was holding a web with three little bunny children! I raced in cutting the web with my sword. The bunnies fell upon the ground, they looked around ten years old. They were way too young to be out alone! Why were they out here? Where IS Ortensia or Oswald?
The spider spits out a web. Quickly, I leapt in front of them, "Dark Barrier!"
The web reflected off the barrier causing the spider to growl. "Aye ya tiny shadow. Hands off me prey!" a voice said.
"N-No," I shouted. They're able to talk in full sentences! "Y-You won't harm them nor anyone else! Sorry spider, but you won't be taking anyone's heart today."
"Hearts? That's what you lesser Heartless take is it. Sorry to burst your bubble shadow, but I want their lux or light. We - Unkindness - love the taste of light. Haven't you noticed no hearts being stolen?"
"That's right… no one's heart has been taken. People were injured and killed, but no one lost their hearts." I said, thinking back to the harbor's attack. "After light? How is that possible? Beings of darkness can't stand the light!"
"Then, why do you still exist?" Slowly, my barrier began to fade. I grit my teeth, looking down at the shaking bunnies. "For a shadow with a fragment of light, how isn't your body fading? How are you still existing? A being of pure darkness with a small fragment of light and me who eats light turns it to darkness and gains new powers. We're not the same, but we're no different. Oh, the Mad Doctor would love to experiment on you!"
Suddenly the spider broke apart turning into three smaller versions of itself -
"Run to the streets!" I ordered.
The bunnies took off and I tailed them, keeping an eye on the spiders.
"Not so fast, shadow!"
Suddenly thick webs closed the exit off, causing us to stop. I looked up and the moment I did another thick web covered the top. I gritted my teeth, glancing at the bunnies and then the three spiders who sat perched on their webs.
Crap… I'm trapped. I need to protect them and fight! If I put up a barrier for them, then I'm stuck using my sword at the item time. It's the only way I can fight and protect them.
"Dark Barrier!"
I bolted forward slashing at the middle spider, it ducked away as the other jumped at me. Quickly, I spun around using that momentum to hit one of the spiders. It poofed instantly. Clones! Just like Vier's!
"What do you want with their lights? What are Lacie and Cross after!" I demanded, landing on the ground.
The spider laughed, "So, you know the White Raven and Rogue Butterfly do you. Now I really gotta bring ya in!"
His clone jumped at me. Quickly, I sliced his clone in half, yet he just summoned more. Hitting them all I found them quite weaker than anything. A spider shot a web causing me to leap back. I hit another spider, yet more kept coming. Suddenly one hit my chest, then my back. I yelped, trying to get them off!
The barrier began to flicker -
It's going to fall!
I raised my hand, "Dark Bar -" "Not this time!" the spider shouted, wrapping my arms in a web and pulling me down. My sword fell out of my grasp, as I hit the ground. The little spiders taped me to the ground. "Game over, shadow."
Fear invaded my senses. The bunnies' fear was growing as well as my own. If I had an arm I could reach for my summon. I could call the three good fairies. I try to phase into the ground, but I'm unable to do it. Ah! I can't use my powers. His webs must contain some kind of nullifier. Crap! What do I do!
Suddenly something cut through the webs up top, causing me to look up. Someone in a black coat hit the ground, causing me to gasp. They quickly slashed down the spider clones with a bat-shaped sword - Wait it was Soul Eater?
My eyes widened.
Their hood fell back revealing shaggy silver hair tied in a ponytail. Turning back, I saw that his eyes were covered by a black cloth. But, still, he looked at me with a small smirk.
Riku?, I breathed.
Quickly, he leaped back slicing my restraints with his sword, while holding a dark fireball in the other. "Dark Firaga!" I turned back to see the spider.
The youngest bunny began to cry. Shaking and fighting back the urge to cry, I growled. Their pain became my wrath, as my eyes changed colors. Within a second, I grabbed my sword rushing to them. I met Riku's eyes - even if they were covered. I didn't know if he was on my side or trying to kill me, but I'll worry about it later.
"Hey! Get these kids to safety! An open business or cafe, wherever. I'll take care of the bug!," I barked, pinpointing the spider rushing at us.
I raised my hand, "Dark Wall!" A large rectangle wall came up in front of him, causing him to be knocked away and landing on his back. His legs began to move trying to get up again.
"Got it!" Unsummoning Soul Eater, he carefully picked up the bunnies. "Dark Fire!" The web walls began to burn a hole into it.
Within seconds, he hurried to safety. I gripped Hellraiser, getting into stance just as the spider leaped to his feet. I bit my lip, I've used all my DP. Fuck!
The spider began to chuckle.
"Your darkness is stirring within your heart and body. It can only mean one thing… you're hungry. You're craving a heart. Why protect those bunnies and that boy when they could've been your prey!"
I dash at him, slicing downwards, yet he dodged, I sliced horizontally. "Because I refuse to steal another heart. I won't give in to my instincts anymore!"
"Me and my kind are known as Solitaire," he said, splitting into two.
I giggled, "Like the card game. The doc and Cross really have a horrible naming process." I leaped up into the air, slicing trying to hit the spider however the clone took his place.
"Says the one who is named after silhouettes!"
He summoned more clones, yet I began to grow faster. Summoning my claws I ripped each of them into pieces. Webs were spat at me, yet I dodge every single one with ease. Hitting the wall, I attacked a clone with my sword and clawed another. Landing on the ground, I sliced another clone's leg off.
My stomach began to growl. My heartbeat began to gain faster and faster. I touched the ground, "FADE!"
Seeping into the ground, I swamp around in the void watching the spiders trying to break into the ground. I smirked, readying my sword and leaping up. It took out three clones and left only one. I laughed darkly. Coming back down, I hit the ground unleashing a dark wave that sent the spider upon his back.
"NOW TELL ME. WHY ARE YOU STEALING PEOPLE'S LIGHTS?" The voice was mine, yet it wasn't calm. It's just like the time with Dustin. I need to resist the temptation!
"The less light someone has the quicker they fall to darkness. Us - Unkindness are meant to steal their light all alway so that they become Heartless or demons. We might harm others or injury them, but it's all only to take their light. Why we do this… you'll see. Heartless who serve the Black Raven will soon see that the White Raven will reign supreme over the darkness! She will restore the rightful order! Balance. Balance! BALANCE! BAL -"
I stabbed his stomach, causing his legs to slowly curl. I retract my sword, putting it in my sheath. The spider fades as a heart is set free. "MAY YOU REST IN PEACE, SOLITAIRE. BE BORN ANEW."
Letting out a heavy sigh, I began to tremble, catching myself on the wall. My body began to shake worse as I saw my hands, shifting from hands to claws. I bit my lip, harder and harder until blood seeped into my mouth. I licked my lips, craving its taste. I need blood. I need a heart. I need a heart!
I need to get home!
Falling to the ground, I began to pant harder.
I…
I need…
My vision began to change feeling hearts nearby. So many of them! My stomach growled. My body began to shake more.
I need food…
"Hey!" Riku came into the alley. He was coming closer and closer. "Hey! Are you -"
Leaping, I knocked him down. I don't know what happened next. It was all a blur. Him trying to push me off. Me choking him. Before I could gain control of myself, I grabbed his body and bit his neck. Blood invaded my mouth. Blood ran down my fingers. The sweet taste of it danced around as it filled the hunger in my being.
Retracing my teeth, I leaned away coming to. I froze completely still.
The blood was still seeping out of his neck. He was lifeless as a corpse. I could hear his heartbeat, but it was waning fast. "No. No. NO. NO! Riku… RIKU!"
Mist filled my eyes. I didn't know what to do. Run and get help or stay and try to cover his wound. No, he needed help! So much blood loss and I'd already drunk a pint. I'd used too much power and lost control so fast. I have to…. There has to be a way to save him! I can't -
I began to cry. "What do I do?"
"NICHOLAS!"
I turned back to see the bunny children with Ortensia. Did they go get her? She hurried overlooking at the scene. She frowned, summoning a cloth from nowhere and wrapping it around Riku's neck. The cloth began to soak up the blood.
"Ortensia… I-I'm sorry," I sobbed, harder. "I didn't… I didn't mean.."
"Grab hold of him and come with me," she ordered.
I nodded, grabbing hold of Riku and following behind her.
Within the 13th Warehouse's infirmity, I laid Riku down upon the bed. Ortensia uncovered his neck as Kida near him. Looking at Barret, who leaned against the wall watching, then back at them. Everyone's auras were different and mixed, but I didn't care about them or myself. I cared about Riku. How could I do this to him!
I held my hands together.
Kida sighed, placing her hand upon my bite mark. "Angelic Cure!" A white-silver glow glistened upon his body. As she removed her hand, my bite mark and the blood were gone. "He'll be okay. He lost a lot of blood, but the spell should help speed up his blood recovery. As for YOU!" She turned sharply to me, eyes burning with anger.
"I-I'm sorry…. I didn't… I lost -" "You lost control, that's your excuse, right? Like every demon, Vice, and Heartless always the same old excuse. You lose control! That's all you ever do and hurt others!" the princess yelled.
"Kida!," Ortensia called.
"Right. If that is all you needed from me, I'll be going now," Kida says, marching out the room.
"Thank -" Before Ortensia could finish, the princess slammed the door shut.
"She's right y'know. If you can't control yourself and attack others around you at random, then maybe you shouldn't use your powers at all. You're already a secret to half of the world. Shit like this happening in public view will cause panic and turn people against Meredith for creating Branden and you," Barret told me.
"I know."
"If you know, then why are you acting out like this, dumbass! Starlight is already in enough shit as it is! The mafia, Unkindness, and the growing fear of citizens are one thing. If people found out about the Heartless Restoration Project, then people wouldn't trust Meredith, Branden, Phoenix, or you because they'd think you're working with Jade Mafia! Darkness has to be controlled! You need to control your hunger! Or are you still just a Heartless craving hearts and chaos!"
"Stop… Please just stop," I whimpered, bowing my head.
"Barret!"
"Someone has to tell him, Ori."
Footsteps, an open door, and a closed-door are all I heard. I stared down at my shaken hands, the remains of his blood upon them. Riku…
"Nicholas…"
"I'm fine." I'm not fine. I hurt someone else. I hurt someone again. I didn't steal his heart, however, I did drink his blood by force. Dustin's going to be disappointed in me. Merry is going to be furious at me!
"You said his name was Riku, right? Well, he is going to be okay. He lost a lot of blood, yet he'll awaken. As for your hunger and powers, this is why you were placed in-field, Nico. You are more than capable of fighting enemies, however, when you overuse your dark powers and crave hearts or blood it puts danger to everyone around you. You've only been in existence for a small time. Branden had a year and a half to control his hunger. It'll take time, but you will be able to control it as well. Kida and Barret's behavior is also why I placed you under my field. So, you won't have to face their Nyctophobia."
I nodded, looking up at her. I wipe away my dried tears, "I understand."
Suddenly Riku rose up behind her, causing me to gasp. "W-Where am I?"
Ortensia turned around, giving a small cheer. His aquamarine eyes looked down at her before landing on me. "YOU?" His eyes narrowed. "Your eyes, your hair…. Your appearance is so different than last time."
"Last time?" But, last time I was an itty bitty shadow. I didn't have any hair - Wait. Don't tell me. "We've met before in the past, haven't we?"
"You… you don't remember me?" he frowned.
"His memory is slowly coming back, however, he doesn't remember much. He suffers from memory loss. But, how can you still tell who he is?" Ortensia wondered.
"I… I can smell people's scents," he answered.
My eyes widened, Scents? What is he half-bloodhound!
"The scent of the person before me has the same scent of a guy I met five years ago. His name was Nicholas Rider. I've been trying to find him for weeks now, and this is where his scent leads me. So, you must be him, right?"
I nod my head. "I am, but I'm not human anymore."
"I know… You're a shadow. I remember seeing you in Wonderland and I felt you all around me. You were watching me like a guardian angel. At first, I thought it was just my smell playing tricks on me, but now that isn't the case. So, I take it you fell to darkness."
"I did." I sigh. "Riku, sorry for attacking you. I lost control and nearly stole your heart. I didn't mean to harm you! I swear!"
"I know you wouldn't and I think if I'd known it was you who was following me, I wouldn't have attacked you. Consider it that we're even."
I frown, taking a few minutes to answer. "I guess."
"Riku, why were you trying to find Nico if you don't mind me asking?" Ortensia asked.
"DiZ, Namine, and I have been trying to track down people who might have a connection to my childhood friend. Last month he went into a coma to try to gather his memories back, however, Organization 13 has been meddling lately. We believe his memories have been passed onto strong connections, that's the theory anyways."
"I have a strong tie to someone," I asked,
"His name is Sora. Ring any bells?"
"Sora… I… I wrote that name down a few times within my journals, but I don't remember him. We made a promise. Ashley and I helped him to Kairi… I know these moments because I wrote them down. But, I have no recollection of it at all."
"The same with everyone connected to Sora. You might not remember anything, but just like Kairi and me, he remembers you. That's why… Namine wants to see you. She might as well be able to help you with your memories too. Can you come this weekend to Twilight Town?"
"Well…. Sure I'll be there," I agreed.
"That's all I wanted to talk to you about. Thank you, Nico…" He looked to the cat toon.
"Ortensia," she introduced herself.
"Thank you, Nico and Ortensia. I should be getting back to Namine and DiZ to them," he smiled. Getting up, he opened a corridor of darkness -
"Wait! You're not going to Destiny Islands?" I asked.
He looked at me, before shaking his head, "Not yet."
"What about Kairi? She must be worried about you."
"Namine told me was doing fine. She's waiting for Sora and I to come home. One day, we will until then I'm not ready to see her again. Not until the three of us are back together again. That was my vow to myself. I don't intend to break it." With that he left, leaving me at a loss.
Was this really the same Riku I met long ago?
What happened while I was away from you?
= Chapter End =
Me: A lot happened within this chapter between Nico and his friends. This is maybe my longest chapter with multiple characters. This was fun to write! A pain to edit/revise, but fun to write!
Katsuki: Why'd you write so much then!
(I laugh weakly, rubbing the back of my head)
Silvia: Riku has returned! It's been a long time since Nico and Riku have seen each other. Of course, Riku and Nico haven't spoken to each other, so it was interesting to see them finally having a conversation. They've met in the past, but Nico has no recollection of it.
Deku: Hopefully he'll be able to get his memories back. Until then, everyone Nico used to know will have to fill him in.
Me: Correct!
All Might: Besides his memories, Nico is slowly losing more control of himself. If this keeps up, he could harm more people besides Riku. He shouldn't push himself in a fight if he knows the drawbacks by doing so.
Katsuki: Sounds like someone else I KNOW!
(Izuku tries to return to his corner. I grab his jacket pulling him back)
Me: (sighs) Unlike Deku, Nico isn't constantly harm to himself, yeah, but it's still constantly harm to others. Either way, it's not good. As shown here Nico's instincts caused him to knock out Riku, but unlike Dustin's attack, Nico aimed for blood instead of a heart since he'd tasted his own blood moments before. So, if he hadn't, Riku would've lost his heart for sure.
Deku: Scary
Me: Can agree? I'm sure if I tried to kill Riku all his fans would hunt me down. Not that I would since I'm one of them. But, yeah Riku was closer to death than anything within those very moments.
All Might: Moving onwards, Walt Street is based on Epic Mickey's Mean Street. It is a little bit updated, but still kinda rundown since a lot of people live closer or around downtown. A lot of toons live within this area as well.
Katsuki: Among the characters and cameos this chapter, the two main ones are Warren from Life is Strange and Barret from Final Fantasy 7/Remake.
Me: Speaking of Barret, Kida and him have Nytyphoba aka the Fear of the dark, darkness, or even nighttime. Here it's just the fear of darkness, which is why demons, Heartless, or even people who use darkness are seen as a threat to them. Their fear becomes hatred, rage, and even sorrow. It doesn't even have to be pure darkness to cause them to feel this way. It can even be their own darkness that they fear. It depends on the person mostly. For example, Riku is slightly Nytyphoba but he's working to get over it. People can break this fear, the thing about it is that you have to be willing to accept the darkness.
Silvia: Take Oblivion as an example! She has a fear of spiders, yet she wrote an Unkindness that is a spider!
(I shiver)
Me: I hate spiders, but I know they're not all bad. I accepted them (sorta).
Deku: Spiders are cool
All Might: They help in gardens
Katsuki: They like to bite and crawl on people when they sleep!
(I try to hide under my desk, yet Izuku drags me out. I groan)
Me: (grumbles) Enough about spiders!
(Silvia giggles at my discomfort. I shot her a look)
Silvia: No more talking about them, okay. (clears her throat) Gamma is made of young adults, teens, and children. From people that Nico knows, here are everyone's ages.
Nicholas Rider (Nico) - 15-ish
Kally Sharpio - 16
Azula Fukrou - 18
Tai Estrellas - 13 ½
Jim Hawkins - 22
Maxine Caulfield (Max) - 18
Warren Graham - 16
Bunny children - Varies
Dustin Altona - 17
Yuri Sakamoto - 15 ½
As you can see, Jim is older than he was with Treasure Planet. We forgot to mention that a few chapters back. Also, within this list is everyone's last names/surnames.
Me: That is all we have for you guys today! I'm sorry for the wait once more. But, I think I'm going to try to post every week or two depending on my schedule. Since my school year is coming to a close, I should be able to finish up everything in the remaining chapters. We're 70% done with this story.
Deku: Really! Awesome!
Katsuki: About time!
All Might: You're almost done! Keep going!
Silvia: We're going to go beyond! PLUS ULTRA!