Trash Woke

by YumeTakato

I Woke Up In The Trash And Got Adopted By The Local Trio. (A Vanitas centric fic that's evolved well beyond its initial concept, and well... There's nothing stronger then family- or something like that.) [Slow burn/minor ships]

31. Strelitzia

-I've cleaned up my AO3 description tags because I've been using AO3 on mobile and I decided it was annoying.
-I never thought I'd come full circle with a joke reference from like, chapter three, but here we are.
-This chapter is a doozy, and I apologize in advance for its insanity. My IRL exhaustion is over 9000.

I woke up in the trash and got adopted by the local trio.
xXx-xXx-awaken-xXx-xXx

Aqua floated above an odd scene as she observed a just-finished battle.

A girl in ornate purple, pink, and gold lined robes sat defeated on the ruined grounds of a castle, clutching her side as her normally braided dark magenta hair splayed around her.

The Knight she summoned, a blue hedgehog with a gauntlet on his right hand, approached her with an understanding smile. "Merlina… Every World has its end, and, I know that's kinda sad but-" He reached down to pick up a dark pink dahlia flower as he spoke, "-That's why we gotta live life to the fullest in the time we have."

The blue hedgehog knelt down on one knee as he held out the flower to the young Wizard with a confident expression on his face, "At least, that's what I figure."

Merlina reached out to take the peace offering, and her Knight stood to gracefully place the flower into her hands. She took it gently, and after taking in its beauty for a moment, she held it to her face in memory as she recalled her cherished family member, "[...]"

Four individuals similar to the Knight approached. The red one, perhaps, an echidna. A purple one who was a female cat, a black and red hedgehog, and the last…

A pink hedgehog, that Aqua could not help but think was the Lady of the Lake in her ornate blue gown, stood in a half circle behind the blue hedgehog.

They spoke of trickery, and how they would have to disband, yet it was the sword by the blue Knight's side that spoke in exasperation at their foolishness. The pink hedgehog, Nimue, couldn't help but agree with the sword as she clasped her hands in front of her gleefully with knowledge yet unspoken.

The sword, Caliburn declared its purpose as the one who chooses the crown, as the three Knights realized they had found their one and only true King Arthur.

The blue hedgehog stood stunned as he pointed to himself in surprise as the three Knights bowed to him. "Hey! Cut that out!" He was not the one meant for this story-!

Aqua opened her eyes and stared at the ceiling for a moment bewildered before she blinked.

She looked to her left and found that Ventus had already gotten up for the day, though she could faintly feel that he was nearby. She pursed her lips at the realization that she could feel him in such a manner from sharing just a little Magic, but…

Well. Maybe Master Eraqus should have explained a little more thoroughly than he had on that subject in the first place. There were parts he'd been vague about, and now she was running into this whole thing half blind along with her Mastery.

She took in a deep breath and sighed gently before glancing to her left. Terra was on his side facing her, still asleep, and she couldn't help but wonder how Ventus had managed to get up and dressed without either of them noticing.

Aqua carefully pushed herself up, and by the time she was standing, Terra had stirred awake. "Aqua?" He wasn't prone to sleeping deeply anymore, so the fact he had, and was having a rough time keeping his eyes open, gave her a little hope that maybe the three of them really could heal from the past decade of Hurt.

She shifted and gave him a pacifying smile, "Morning."

Terra hummed and closed his eyes, half dozing while trying to convince himself to wake up. Aqua laughed softly to herself, "We're gonna have a busy day today, so you can still rest, Terra."

He huffed and buried his face into his pillow with a grumble, "I'll get up… just… five minutes."

Aqua snickered and shook her head as she headed to her personal bathroom to get refreshed and ready for the day.

It was strange, but she found she was happy to be slowly finding an equilibrium with her boys.

Aqua paused at that before shaking her head as she shook off that stray thought and made her way to the kitchen.

Despite the early hour, Sora was already preparing breakfast for those who were staying there that day with trained efficiency. It surprised her how well he cooked, even though it was supposedly a sentient rat who'd taught him.

She smiled at her drowsy Servant while the Young Wizard sat at the kitchen table, blearily drinking his morning tea as he greeted her. "Good morning Master."

Aqua internally huffed at the title's double meaning, but nodded in greeting, "Good morning Merlin, Sora." Sora gave her a quick grin and nod in greeting before he continued to concentrate on his work. Aqua hummed thoughtfully, recalling her strange Dream… Memory, and decided to ask. "Merlin… I had a bit of an odd dream."

Merlin fully woke at that and gave her a nervous look, "Dream?"

Aqua nodded as she partially crossed her arms, as one hand held her chin in contemplation, "There were Knights that, vaguely, remind me of the residents of Disney Town… but with unnatural coloring."

Merlin blinked as Sora tilted his head in silent curiosity as he listened in. "Anthropomorphic Knights?" Merlin hummed, "How interesting…"

Aqua tilted her head, "Is it your Memory I'm seeing, or… someone else's?"

Merlin closed his eyes for a moment to collect his thoughts, "Well, we have a Master-Servant bond. Because of that, and I apologize for not properly warning you earlier, you may see my Memories… or the Memories of other Merlins."

Aqua lowered her arm to clutch her forearms, "I see, so it was… A Merlin's Memory I saw." She tilted slightly, "She seemed to be really sad, and her blue hedgehog Knight… he was kind in his own way."

Sora paused and turned with a confused expression on his face, "Blue hedgehog..? Are you talking about Sonic?"

Aqua and Merlin both looked at the brunette in surprise. Merlin raised a questioning brow, "You know of him?"

Sora flushed, startled and confused, "I-! Uh!" He ruffled his hair awkwardly, "I met him? I think? He's super fast, and he's a great fighter with a good heart! He protects animals."

Merlin pursed his lips, "But he isn't-" He slouched slightly, "So you've met him somehow."

Sora chuckled nervously with a wince, "Maybe it was while I was Sleeping? I mean, when Naminé was putting my Memories back together, there's no way I didn't Dream at all, right..?"

Aqua… couldn't help but agree and felt a little relieved. "That would be pretty strange."

Merlin exhaled and crossed his arms while leaning back in his chair, "Well, be that as it may with how Sora's Heart is good at reaching out and touching others…" He snickered, "A Knight of the Wind, hm?"

Aqua relaxed a little, "Sounds right."

Merlin's face became worried for a moment before he brushed his silent thoughts away into neutrality. "Today will be a long day. Ienzo and the others have Strelitzia's body ready, all we need to do is go to Radiant Garden together to bring her to completion."

Aqua pulled out a chair and settled in at the table, "All of us?"

Merlin nodded, "I had thought of only having some of you children go, but I think, especially with the bond between Sora, Vista, Ventus, Xion, Roxas, and Naminé, it would be prudent for all of us to go, to anchor them in case Strelitzia's strange influence between them causes… problems."

Aqua hadn't even thought about that, "Ah, you're right." Sora nodded in silent agreement.

The day had barely begun, but it would be filled to the brim without a moment wasted.

xXx-xXx-awaken-xXx-xXx

Ventus had awoken to Aqua's soft features in the early purple-blue morning light and quietly pulled himself away from the presence of his two friends. His skin was oddly sensitive to the Magic that clung close to the surface, and his mind raced a mile a minute as confused anxiety rushed through him.

He needed to move, to run, something to shake off these jitters and stop blushing!

He dressed silently, forgoing his waist armor for the sake of stealth, and quietly made his exit.

Ventus stretched languidly, as the lack of weight from his armor was an odd change of pace. He exhaled softly and made his way to Merlin's Bubble World for a morning jog.

Or at least, that had been the plan, until a black hued and violet eyed Flood landed on him at the entrance. "Augh!" A nearby snicker revealed the culprit as Ventus glared at his brother, "Vista!"

Vista cackled as he kept a hand on his blue Flood's head, "G'morning, Venty."

Ventus pouted at him as he couldn't help but whine, "Vista~!"

Vista clicked his tongue, but relented to Ventus's lack of humor and tipped his head to the side, "Let's walk."

Ventus blinked at the slight shift in mood before nodding. He came to his brother's side and together they began a leisurely walk into the woods of their safe haven. It was silent for a time, as both Wielders seemed to need to collect their thoughts before Vista notably inhaled, "I blocked the others out."

Ventus blinked and looked at Vista in confusion, "What?"

Vista gave him an odd look, "No one's mentioned feeling anything… unusual from your end, 'cause if they had, they might've teased you and Aqua."

Ventus felt the blood drain from his face in horror. He'd forgotten in that moment that so many others could feel his stronger emotions through their shared Bond!

Vista placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder and squeezed it, "I've been bonded to you the longest, and there were times in the past I had to block you out, so when I suggested that you share Magic with Aqua, I.." He became uncharacteristically uncomfortable, "I pulled your feelings completely away from the others and only into myself. None of them felt anything."

Ventus slowed to a stop as he observed his brother, "...Vista, are you still doing that?"

Vista nodded, his Heart hammering in his chest alongside Ventus's anxiety, "Yeah. It's… private. It'd be one thing if we were Worlds away from one another, but… Well. I don't know how well the others would handle your confusing feelings. If they'd keep quiet and respectful, or be so embarrassed that they'd tease you." He shrugged helplessly, unable to keep eye contact as his cheeks warmed slightly. "I… greatly respect Aqua as a fighter. I wouldn't want to cause her shame."

Ventus blinked at that and felt himself relax. He could sense Aqua's presence even at their present distance, and it was strange and new. He didn't know if this would have a lasting effect, or if it would slowly fade once they parted ways with Merlin.

He wasn't even sure what it was he wanted from this strange new bond in the long run.

Vista's eyes were downcast and filled with such a strange sort of guilt, that Ventus couldn't help it when he punched him lightly in the arm. Vista glared at him, and Ventus couldn't stop the smile that broke out on his face as his anxiety lessened, "Thanks."

Vista observed him before nodding solemnly. "I'll continue to pull your more… lustful thoughts away from the others-" Ventus spluttered as he continued, "But it's really fucking inconvenient. So figure that shit out sooner than later, okay?"

Ventus ruffled his hair with clenched eyes, red cheeks, and a grimace, "Y-yeah, sorry about that. I never- I've never felt that way before and it-" He huffed, "I'm sorry you have to deal with it too, Vista."

Vista blinked, "Ventus, I'm the one who said that it was necessary for you to share your Magic. Of course I'm gonna take responsibility and protect you both." He hummed in thought, "Though maybe tonight you should keep Terra with you two the whole time, to prevent things from getting out of hand sooner?"

Ventus made a strange face with a number of unnamed emotions, and Vista couldn't help but to firmly place his hand on the back of his shoulder, "Ven." He wanted to say something, but the words and thoughts died in his throat as Ventus gave him an unreadable look.

Vista pulled back as they went silent and began their walk anew. They'd be okay.

Everything would turn out alright. They had to believe in that.

xXx-xXx-awaken-xXx-xXx

Ienzo took in a deep breath before exhaling gently. He wasn't sure how the day would go, considering what was at stake.

Recompleting Lauriam's dead sister wasn't something he'd ever imagined happening, but here they were.

Ienzo turned to Ansem the Wise, and the elder man gave him a reassuring smile as he spoke, "Hopefully Roxas will tolerate my presence before trying to lop my head off."

Even scoffed with a roll of his eyes as he typed away, "If Merlin is to be believed, as the main holder of Strelitzia's data, I certainly hope he has better things to do than get blood all over my console." He waved a hand towards a corner, "Go over there if you think your blood is worth staining our floor."

Ansem smirked and chuckled lowly while Ienzo smiled awkwardly. Were they joking, or..?

Lea stepped into the room with a dramatic flare, "You're long-awaited guests have arrived!"

Roxas trotted in after him with a deep glower as Xion smiled awkwardly beside him, waving to the three scientists as she gave a meek, "Morning."

Roxas glanced at the blank Replica and glared at them, "You didn't even bother to give her a blanket?"

Ienzo had the decency to flush lightly as he rubbed his neck awkwardly. It was still blank, without any features to distinguish it in any manner, "My apologies. It must have slipped our minds in our rush to complete Strelitzia's base…"

Roxas huffed lightly before pulling out a boutique bag from his inventory. He moved over to Ienzo and handed the parcel to him, "Here."

Ienzo took the bag and looked into it and realized he'd been given clothing. "O-oh, thank you."

There were some missing pieces that they had prepared beforehand, but… well.

Ienzo didn't much like the thought of dressing a girl, even if the Replica was blank at the moment. He was still… a young man.

Xion startled him as she glanced into the bag, while Kairi and Naminé arrived. The two settled next to their fellow Wielder, and with a shared look, Kairi took the bag from Ienzo with a grin, "Give us a few minutes to dress her while you tell Roxas the step-by-step of extracting Strelitzia's data?"

Ienzo felt relief as he nodded, "Yes, thank you. I'll go ahead and do that." He looked to Ansem and Even and tilted his head for them to come along. Even growled and stood with a huff as he followed along after his apprentice, Ansem nodding his head in silent greeting as he cuffed Lea's ear and dragged him along with a yelp.

Roxas kept his space from the scientists, but shuffled along with Lea's telling glance as they settled in a separate corridor.

Ienzo observed the blond Wielder and frowned, "Ah, so your eyes have changed color."

Roxas bared his teeth with a glare, "What of it?"

Ienzo lifted his hands in a pacifying manner, "My apologies. I had been informed of the change, but it's something else entirely to witness it. Are you…" He made a waving motion with his hand as he tried to gather his words, "Are you doing alright?"

Roxas was about to retort when he paused. He pulled back slightly, and forced himself to calm down as he watched Ienzo.

Zexion had never been cruel to him, so Ienzo asking after his wellbeing was something he was truly concerned about. He was Ansem and Even's apprentice, so of course the two were present, and they all needed to work together for this to work.

Roxas took in a deep breath before gently exhaling to center himself, "Taking in Strelitzia's Memory has kind of… messed me up, a little." He glanced away from the four men standing nearby as he uncharacteristically grasped his left bicep. He felt awkwardly vulnerable, and perhaps, this was a small piece of Strelitzia's insecurities making it past his defenses, "I know it'll get better once her Data's extracted… that it'll take time for me to be me again… but I'm otherwise fine." He met Ienzo's concerned gaze, "I'm alright."

Ienzo hummed as he crossed his arms with a small nod, "Are you nervous about this procedure?"

"Yes." Without a doubt, Roxas had been nothing but nerves this morning. He almost hadn't been able to eat the breakfast Sora had prepared.

Ienzo accepted that, "Naminé will also be nearby, seeing as she's managed to take hold of Strelitzia's Heart. You will not be alone. Isa will stand beside you as we extract you Data, and Riku will extract Strelitzia's Heart with the Power of Waking when her body is ready."

Roxas frowned, "Why Isa and Riku?" Why not Xion or Aqua?

Lea startled Roxas when he started ruffling the blond's hair with a grin, "'Cause I was there." Roxas gave Lea a weird look as the redhead continued, "The Data Twilight Town? We don't want you getting confused or scared."

Roxas's eyes widened before he flushed lightly and focused on the floor. "Oh." He hated and appreciated the measure all at once. "So where will Xion and the others be?"

Lea shared a silent question with the three scientists before Ansem nodded solemnly. Lea grinned and pulled Roxas away, "I'll show you so you'll know, alright?"

Roxas nodded as he walked alongside his friend. His nerves were settling a little, but he knew the second they turned back he'd want to throw up.

After some twists and turns, they came upon a familiar room that Roxas vaguely recognized. "Oh, the med bay?"

Lea grimaced, "I guess, if that's what you wanna call it."

Roxas gave him a questioning look that had a hint of concern as Ava stepped out into the hall dressed in her Foreteller robes, and noticed them with hands clenched tightly to her chest. "Oh. Hello there."

Lea waved as Roxas nodded in greeting. Lea raised a brow, "You doin' okay, there?"

Ava gave them a pained smile, "Yes- no, I just…" She took in a deep breath before sighing gently, "I'm not really sure if staying here is wise."

Roxas frowned, unsure of what to say to that. He understood Ava's decision, but… "It's not like you need to run away. And besides, are you really going to try and leave by yourself?"

Ava paused before slumping slightly. "That was the plan."

Lea hummed, "That'll just make us all worry for your safety. Sora especially."

Ava looked towards the taller man before nodding, "I know. I'm sorry… I just. I'm still shaken from what happened yesterday."

"And that is why you should rely on your friends for help, Master Ava."

Ava turned to Lodur as he came down the hall. He was trailed by Edym, Lauriam, Elrena, and Skuld. "...Brain."

Lodur gave the Foreteller a gentle smile, "Just as I followed you here from Quadratum, allow me to continue on by your side in aid for the journey ahead."

Ava gaped at him, "But, shouldn't you stay to help the others..?"

Edym raised his arms and clasped his hands behind his head, "Awe, they can lean on each other for a while, Master Ava. Besides, King Mickey's still in Scala ad Caelum collecting information. They can always train there- it was Daybreak Town, before."

Ava blinked before she brought her fingertips to just barely brush beneath her lips in surprise, "Scala ad Caelum was Daybreak Town..?"

Edym nodded with a grin, "Yup!" The Musician glanced at the three behind him as he dropped his arms, "What'll you three do?"

Skuld almost spoke, to say she'd follow Ephemer anywhere, before she stopped.

Someone needed to help Elrena and Lauriam, and act as a buffer between them and those they'd Hurt.

Lauriam went to speak before Skuld stepped between him and Elrena and clasped their hands tightly, silencing any words they could speak. "We'll stay at The Land of Departure with the others… and if we're not there, we'll help King Mickey."

Elrena gaped at the girl beside her as Lauriam observed her. He wanted to speak of how poor of an idea that was, and yet…

Lauriam closed his eyes before meeting Ephemer's blue, "I agree with Skuld."

Elrena clicked her tongue before pouting, "I guess if that's what you two wanna do."

Skuld and Lauriam looked at Elrena as Skuld grinned and raised an eyebrow, "Why are you so put out about it? You can have your opinion too, y'know."

Elrena flushed as Lauriam bit his cheek to keep from chuckling.

The Lightning Nymph spluttered before exclaiming, "W-why does it matter anyway?!"

Skuld grinned and pulled her close to her side, "Because you're never straightforward!"

Elrena hunched into her shoulders and glared in the opposite direction with a red face, "I… like your plan."

Skuld beamed, "Was that so hard?"

Elrena glared at her friend, "Yes!"

Skuld laughed as she pulled them both back slightly into Lauriam. Lauriam startled as he unconsciously pulled the two of them into himself bewildered, "What in the world are you up to, Skuld?"

Edym blinked before he grinned, "Skuld, do you like being with Lauriam and Elrena?"

Skuld looked at him with bright happy eyes and nodded, "Yes!" Lauriam and Elrena reacted in silent surprise, while Ephemer allowed himself to truly feel something he hadn't in a long time.

He took in a deep breath before exhaling a longing that had never left him since the moment he'd found himself alone at the beginning of the separation of the World.

Time was such a fickle thing, and so were people. He had come to love and lose, gain and destroy. A cycle he'd followed while holding onto his most original truths.

He had loved Skuld, but his place beside her was lost centuries ago.

Edym beamed, "I'm glad, Skuld."

Skuld observed him for barely a breath before breaking away from the still bewildered Lauriam and Elrena, and clasped her hands behind his neck and pulled him close, startling him. "Ephemer, I-" She took in a shaking breath as tears, both happy and agonized, made her eyes shine with more emotion than she could bear, "I love all of you. You were everything I needed as a Keyblade Wielder, back then, and even now, but…" She closed her eyes as she bumped their foreheads together, "For now, my place is here. Our paths are diverging once again, but…" She pulled back a little and smiled gently as Edym relinquished himself to her, "You'll always have a place in my Heart." She sealed the deal and pulled him close.

It was short, chaste, but held everything they'd never had the chance to speak between them in their teenage years was there in that moment's kiss.

Skuld released him, and Edym pulled back and brought his hand to his lips, now flustered and bashful. He refused to look at anyone as he processed what had just happened, "O-oh. I-" Ephemer was at a loss for words, and finally gave into his blush and bowed his head slightly, "I'm grateful."

Lodur had his arms crossed with a strange grin on his face as he gave Edym a particular look as he teased, "Oh, is that all you have to say to that, Ephemer?"

Edym smacked his hands to his face as he grit his teeth, "Sh-shut up Brain! I never-!" He slumped against the wall like the noodle he was, "Shut up." He repeated his words in a grumble as Lodur laughed at his plight.

Skuld looked between Lauriam, Elrena, Lodur, Ava, Lea, and Roxas before surmising, "Did I break him?"

Lodur couldn't help the bark of laughter that escaped him before shaking his head, "Can't break what was already well and shattered, my dear."

Skuld pouted before moving over to Lodur and startling him with a tight hug around the ribs as she pouted up at him with a flush, "You are so mean, Brain. Stop teasing Ephemer all the time!"

Lodur gaped as he felt his face warm in betrayal, "Wh- You have not lived with that man for over a century!"

Skuld puffed her cheeks in annoyance at him, and Brain felt himself melt a little at her reprimand. Skuld wasn't overly confrontational, so having her be so straightforward was certainly…

Brain huffed, and returned her hug in defeat, "I will try and be better, Skuld."

Skuld beamed and moved to kiss him where she could reach, and he shifted to accommodate her shorter height so she could have his cheek. She grinned and pulled back without resistance as he let her go back to Lauriam and Elrena.

Lauriam hesitantly pulled Skuld to himself and draped his arms in front of her as he watched her, "So you love us all."

Skuld half turned to give him a smile and pat him gently on his jaw, "Yes. It took me a while to figure out, but you are all, back then and here and now, more precious than anything to me in the Worlds. If I could keep you all close, if I could make you all happy… I would do anything to accomplish that goal."

Lauriam's eyes softened, "I see." A passing thought came to him, "And Ven?"

Skuld blinked, "My love for him has changed. There's too much of a gap now and…" She smiled slightly, "He has his own feelings to figure out between his closest friends."

Lauriam nodded, "I see." He hesitated a moment before nuzzling into the top of her head, as she returned his gesture.

Elrena pursed her lips with a glower, "So where do I fit in, in all of this?"

Skuld and Lauriam blinked at her, before the blonde yelped as Skuld pulled her close in an inescapable hug, "The place you've already found for yourself!"

Ava looked between Lodur and the now recovered Edym in wonder before smiling to herself as she relaxed.

The choices she'd made had been the correct ones.

She took Edym and Lodur's hands and squeezed them, pulling their attention to her as she bowed her head, "So you'll be coming with me?"

Edym nodded, "Yup!"

Lodur hummed, "I don't think any of us are comfortable with you leaving to journey and fight alone."

Ava nodded as she looked back at them, "Thank you."

Edym hugged Ava with a grin abruptly, causing her to gasp softly as Lodur sighed tiredly before laying a hand on her head in silent comfort.

Lea nodded to himself, while Roxas simply observed as Strelitzia's intrusive thoughts intertwined with his own musings. So people can love in that way as well…

Roxas couldn't help but feel he still had so much to learn about people, and Strelitzia's feelings agreed with him.

Xion came up beside him and gently pulled on his jacket, "Roxas."

He glanced to her and nodded before turning to Lea, "So, Isa and Riku?"

Lea choked, "Whups! We're gonna be late!" He scrambled to collect the two as Roxas snickered before glancing between everyone present in the hall. Edym smiled and clapped him on the shoulder, "Lodur and I will help to try and keep things under control here, so you worry about yourself, alright?"

Roxas swallowed hard and nodded. He met Xion's eyes, and with one last rushed hug he scrambled back with stiff limbs towards the lab with his pulse in his throat.

He was nearly to the lab when he wavered, his vision tunneling as he tried to brace for a fall. Yet, his descent was stopped as Kairi managed to catch him from his stumble and held him close. His ears were ringing and he was breathing too hard. His skin was clammy again and he was just so so scared-

"It's alright Roxas. I'm here."

Her Light washed over him, as he slowly felt his senses awaken to her touch. Her hand was warm against his back as she tried to calm him with her touch. He eased into her and shakily wrapped his arms around her and closed his eyes.

"Just breathe, you'll be alright. You're your own person, and no one can change that."

Tears warmed his eyes, "I'm sorry."

Kairi tilted her head slightly, "Hmm? What for?"

Roxas didn't know, but for some reason… "Just felt like it needed to be said."

Kairi was silent for a long moment before gently patting him on the back, "Well, whatever it was, it's in the past. But if it'll make you feel better, I forgive you." She loosened her hold on him to something he could easily pull away from, but he stayed. Listening to her breathing and syncing his with her's.

Her Light anchored him, helped him center his feelings and push her's away as he came back to the present and slowly opened his eyes. He pulled back slightly, to meet her eyes, and Kairi smiled at him sadly. "I'm sorry I can't stay with you, to help you."

Roxas gave her a warbling smile, "'Cause of Sora?"

Kairi nodded, "Yeah. If anything happens, since Riku will be with Naminé, I need to be his anchor, so…" She closed her eyes and pressed her forehead against his in comforting affection, "We're with you, alright?"

Roxas leaned into her, closing his eyes in turn as he simply breathed and focused on staying calm. "Yeah. Thanks."

They stayed like that for as long as they dared before Roxas finally released his hold on her. Roxas pulled away from her slowly, before he acknowledged Isa watching in silent worry nearby.

Hesitantly Isa moved over to them and cautiously gave them his hands to help them off the floor in one easy pull.

Kairi squeezed Roxas's hand one last time in comfort before letting him go, waving between the two of them before excusing herself to Sora's side.

Isa waited with him patiently until Roxas sighed audibly, and with a small nod, allowed Isa to guide him back to the main computer room where everyone was waiting.

It was time.

xXx-xXx-awaken-xXx-xXx

Of all the things Merlin had anticipated today, he had most certainly not anticipated his other self to take for herself a vessel to manifest her Spirit Origin here, along with His Lady.

He had clearly been shortsighted, to have not felt the purity of Aerith's mana and spirit that aligned with Nimue so clearly, nor that the little Fairy Yuna could also take in more than one spirit.

He frowned, as the now human-sized fairy covered her lower face with a teasing glint in her eyes, "Fufufu, I see we've surprised you, Onii-sama."

Yes. Clearly Chaldea had noted the absence of his Spirit Origin immediately. "Lady of Avalon." He gripped his staff, "It is a… surprise to see you here."

Lady of Avalon held her silver staff with its blue shell-like tip across both hands, as Yuna's once brown hair had changed to an untamed silvery white, free of its Besaid braiding. Yuna's heterochromatic eyes were now both the same violet-grey as his own, and her dress was a more feminine version of his clothing. Black leggings with gold designs, a white cowl lined with the blue of celestial space, and a white fitted tunic top. "I'll have you know that Da Vinci and Holmes are quite upset with you for needlessly worrying our Master." She pouted, "It's only fortunate that Lady Nimue was able to connect with me and request that the two of us assist you in completing this mission of yours without further involvement."

Merlin grimaced and glanced at His Lady. Nimue met his gaze with a mischievous glint in her blue eyes, as Aerith's palette took on her watery colors. The Caster stepped towards the two of them and grit his teeth. He was concerned about how Strelitzia's situation would affect Vista, for the things he had been able to say, and the things he and Nimue had not been able to say about his condition.

Nimue gently grasped Merlin's sleeve and took his attention, "What has happened since we last spoke? How has the situation changed to the degree you had to make a Master-Servant Contract with Aqua?"

Merlin pursed his lips, "I was having Dreams about the collapse of Twilight Town. I-" He glanced away and gripped his staff, "I could not allow that World to fall. It still has a cost for them all to restore it, but that place… It was more than Vista's home, more than his comfort. It was Lea, Roxas, and Xion's most precious place first."

Nimue absorbed that information before relenting slightly with a small smile, "You have gone soft, my love."

Merlin glared at the offending scenery around them of stolen Hearts in battery-like containers, "Not at all. With this, our time together is lost."

Nimue took a half step towards him and placed a gentle hand on his cheek before guiding him to meet her gaze, "You have rarely allowed yourself to care for so many, so deeply."

Merlin took in a deep breath before sighing as he blocked out the world around him, "You are correct."

Nimue pulled her hand back to herself, "So a way was found to return the girl's Spirit?"

Merlin nodded, "Naminé has the girl's Heart. Roxas… he somehow ended up with her Memories. Her Data, so that we can give her new form shape."

Lady of Avalon frowned, "How exactly did he do that?"

Merlin shrugged helplessly as he looked between the two of them, "Flowers began to bloom across the Bonds of Memory between Vista, Ventus, Roxas, Xion, Naminé, and Sora. It would seem Roxas entered Strelitzia's Memories through his Garden."

Lady of Avalon gave him a confused look at the explanation, but Nimue nodded solemnly, "I see. So he became her in Xion's stead."

Merlin exhaled heavily, "So it would seem."

Lady of Avalon ran her fingers through a section of her hair before twisting it around her finger in thought, "You need help, dear brother."

Merlin slumped, "Desperately."

Lady of Avalon released her hair, and with a grin gave him a harsh pat on the shoulder, "Then allow this Pretender to help her poor beloved brother get through this absolute failure of a Casting."

Merlin gave her a put out look before nodding towards where the Wielders were. "Our services are perhaps best used for the Keybearers. We shall leave Strelitzia in the scientist's care, to ensure that the Hearts of these young children are not dragged into the impending flood of Memory."

Nimue and Lady of Avalon nodded, following after his lead.

Nimue whispered softly behind him, "And Vista's Heart..? Do you believe he can withstand her Light?"

He didn't know.

But he had to Believe his Ward would withstand it.

The Strength of the True Dandelion.

xXx-xXx-awaken-xXx-xXx

Riku took in a deep breath with eyes closed as he floated downwards into the Realm of Sleep.

Usually it was a fast paced dive, filled to the brim with Memories or other some such… but this time?

This time it was a slow descent into the Deep.

The Heart he would Awaken was ancient but young, strong but fragile.

The Deep began to turn brighter, and he slowly opened his eyes to the fading hues from deepest black to grays, and slowly as he turned himself over-

His feet landed upon the white surface of Naminé's Heart Station.

The girl he was here for was crouched by the only splash of color in this painfully Pure White Heart to the point that Riku didn't want to know what Kairi's Heart would be like. Naminé's was harsh enough to deter him from ever wondering about its appearance ever again.

Orange pigtails intermixed with green leaves and stems, as the White Clover washed back into the foreground.

Riku didn't want to startle her by approaching her unexpectedly, but he wanted to leave Naminé's Heart. It was far too much like Castle Oblivion, and now he understood why she had no desire to gain rest within the Sanctuary of her Heart.

The girl in white stood, holding a familiar feline in her arms as she turned towards him. Her eyes had deep dark circles, as if she had been unable to find rest, causing her features to seem gaunt and unwell. She smiled sardonically towards him as her voice was deep with exhaustion, "So your Heart has accepted its darkness."

Riku blinked, glancing down at himself, only to realize a thin veil of dark outlined his form. He lifted his hand with a furrowed brow as he turned it this way and that before dropping it at his side with a shrug, "It's mine to accept and carry."

Strelitzia nodded, "I see." She slowly made her way to him, stopping just out of arm's reach before meeting his gaze, "Do you really think all of this is worth it?"

Riku blinked, "Huh?"

Strelitzia's eyes dimmed, "Is it really worth all of this trouble to bring me back? Is my Heart alone worth it?"

Riku gave her an odd look before placing a hand on his hip and rubbing the back of his head in slight bewilderment, "Honestly? Probably not, but…" He dropped his arms with a small smile, "I think you'll prove to us all that it was." He placed his hand on his chest in remembrance, "If I was worth it… if… if I could bring him back too…" He thought of his Replica who had given up the last of himself for Naminé's sake. "In the end, it'll be up to you to find meaning in living."

Strelitzia bit her lip as she bowed her head, before sighing as she relented. "It would be nice… to feel the warmth of the sun."

Riku nodded and gently offered his hand, "Then let's go."

Strelitzia stared at his offered hand, and after a moment's breath, she grasped it with what strength she had left.

In the Depths of their Hearts, a Light was Awoken in an explosion of Light.

xXx-xXx-awaken-xXx-xXx

Vista stood near the edge of his Heart Station.

He'd been put to Sleep along with the others, and each of them stood in wait on their respective Stations.

There was a thrum of nervousness and relief from Roxas, anticipation from Xion and Sora both.

He and Ventus shared guilt and dread, with a dash of hope.

Vista clenched his hands, tense at what might be coming their way.

Perhaps, moreso his way.

He swallowed thickly, and in the distance, a burst of Light sprang out in the shape of a tuft of Dandelion seeds.

He couldn't help the sardonic smirk that crossed his lips at that. It was always those fucking weeds.

Something creaked dangerously in his Heart, at the edges where the Flowers of Paradise stood. The creaking, crushing, shattering of glass became deafening around him as his pulse sped up in time while he watched the flowers sink beneath the Station's surface with a sickening splash.

He grasped his chest as each flower plunged below, erasing the outermost ring of his Heart's image.

Cutting, burning, slicing under his skin as wounds were made apparent of years passed.

Vista fell to his knees with a choking wheeze as he felt as if his blood were on fire, as if Xehanort had once again used a Thundaza spell on him while casting Blizzaga to freeze him in place- to keep him from writhing..!

The sound of water splashing over an unending ledge faintly made it to his ears as the innermost glass floated on top of his Station's surface, a ripple of movement nauseating him from beneath as he closed his eyes.

Strelitzia for Freedom.

White Clover to Protect.

Chamomile to face Adversity.

Edelweiss for Love and Devotion.

Shion to Remember.

Daisies for a New Beginning.

And finally the flower that had been hidden from him, the flower that represented him best.

Poppies, for the Sleeping Peace of Death.

Each flower sprang up one by one on the outer perimeter of his broken Heart's Image, taking the place of the leaves that were seemingly shared across all Hearts.

Glass reformed, and the flowers sunk into the surface to create new flowered images, showing the bonds between their linked Hearts.

Footsteps made their way on the glass surface, coming ever nearer as the soft gliding of a scythe came closer.

"Once last Memory to imprint upon you, Childe of the Dark." A striking mark to remember the depth of his sin.

The blade cut deep and across into his back.

xXx-xXx-awaken-xXx-xXx

Aqua opened her eyes to the expansive Deep.

She was floating in the waters of Sleep, Dreaming and Hoping that Ventus and the others would come out of this alright.

That Awakening Strelitzia wasn't a mistake.

A boy with swirled silver hair, teal eyes, and a red scarf floated down beside her, both of them illuminated by their own inner Light in the depths of Darkness.

He looked at her and gave her a small smile, "Do you know the reason why it's so important for Keyblade Wielders to gain the Power of Waking?"

Aqua shook her head, "I don't."

The boy nodded, his smile never leaving as he waved his hand, and in the depths of the Deep, the image of that once sleepy Town of Daybreak was shown in a bubble.

"Long long ago, the Worlds were once One.

However, after the Great Calamity, The Keyblade War, the Heart of the World was split.

Broken into pieces.

Each piece to its own place in the sky, and made unto itself its own unique image for the sake of protecting its Light.

But what of those who had been left behind?

The Hearts of the Children that had kept the World from falling into Darkness after the War?

Their Hearts were given a Choice.

Will you perish, and start anew in rebirth after bathing in the Light of Kingdom Hearts?

Or will you Slumber, to await the day your Heart might be Awoken from its Deepest Sleep?

Each Heart made its choice, as new Vessels were made to protect their vulnerable Hearts, as their bodies perished.

And so, Many Slumber, Awaiting that Day of Awakening by those with the Strength of Heart to do so...

With the Power of Waking."

Ephemer lifted his face as he watched Strelitzia's Heart be reborn, "My purpose for continuing onwards, one life after the next. It wasn't only to make it past the final page of the Book of Prophecies."

"It was to Awaken my Friends."

xXx-xXx-awaken-xXx-xXx

One by one they stirred awake.

Kairi smiled at Sora's sleepy blink and yawn.

Lea had misty eyes as he gripped Xion's hand when her consciousness fluttered back into the world.

Ventus nearly bolted upwards in panic, as Terra immediately settled him back to calm down and breathe.

Naminé and Roxas awoke at the same time in their cots, as Riku shook himself from his Dive, and Isa placed his hand on Roxas's forehead in comfort.

Aerith-Nimue frowned as she held Vista's hand.

The Darkling did not wake, as his skin paled while his blood grew cold, and skin slickened with sweat.

The Lady of the Lake felt the Darkling's Heart break at the edges, as each garden belonging to each bonded child crossed over to one another and bloomed into each Heart.

Aerith's Heart beat in time with the Lady's, as the Purity of their Magic connected them to Life's Stream.

Aerith bowed her head and touched the hand she held cupped into her own to her brow and Prayed.

The fight was not done yet.

xXx-xXx-awaken-xXx-xXx

Strelitzia slowly opened her eyes and found comfort in the nothingness before her.

She was sprawled out on the glass surface of her Heart, her Chirithy safe as they laid curled up on her stomach.

A breath.

A finger twitch.

Slowly her nerves awoke as each part of her came to fill the new shell she had been given.

Her arm was heavy as she carefully lifted it to look at the palm of her hand, fingers stretched apart as it broke through the emptiness above her.

She wanted to smile, but her feelings hadn't quite caught up to her body.

She laid her hand on her Chirithy, and they mumbled as they nuzzled into her before they popped away.

Strelitzia closed her eyes.

What would her Heart Station look like now? Would it be blank like her new body had once been, or..?

She shifted and slowly pushed herself up.

Her limbs were stiff from disuse, as if her Heart knew of the long Slumber she'd had.

Her new body would be an adjustment.

Strelitzia carefully stretched her arms upwards before allowing them to fall beside her as she finally took courage to look at her Heart.

Starlight came to her call happily as it chimed with joy at her summons.

Her feet slowly left her Heart's surface as she drifted upwards before looking down.

Seven different flowers were imprinted on the outer edge of her Heart, as Thread and Chain reached out and entangled with her Memories.

Strelitzia opened her eyes.

xXx-xXx-awaken-xXx-xXx

Aqua's Stormfell swiped at Strelitzia's Phantom as she tried to keep her away from causing Vista further harm.

Were Hearts supposed to bleed that much from within?

Sparks flew between them as the bitterness and resentment caused by death fought against Aqua's Light.

A pitch black Starlight slammed against her Stromfell and form changed to a scythe as the Phantom expertly twirled it overhead and swiped one-two-three times in succession.

"Suffer!" A blade of orange petaled light tore through the air as Aqua went into Ghost Drive and teleported from one place to the next before slamming into the embodiment of Strelitzia's Darkness.

When would their suffering end?!

"Let me have my revenge!"

Aqua sneered as she locked her Keyblade with the Phantom's and yanked her off her feet overhead, only to slam her into the stained glass below, "No! That's enough already!"

Again and again the Phantom got back up to charge the Master as both used everything they had to gain the upper hand.

But Rage and Anger are fleeting flames, and slowly they faded and dimmed.

As resentment bled away, and all that remained was the weakened sadness of regret. "I just wanted to be that person's friend..!"

Aqua was breathing hard as the Phantom's tearful gaze met her's before melting away into a puddle of darkness.

Before the Phantom was no more.

Aqua stumbled over to Vista's side, barely able to lift Stormfell to cast Cure.

She fell to her knees and placed her hand on the back of his head, "Vista, please…" She bowed her head.

Her Magic was nearly run dry, and there were still things she and Merlin had to accomplish before tomorrow's end.

A gentle hand laid upon her shoulder, "Rest little Master, allow us to take it from here."

Aqua tiredly lifted her head and met Aerith-Nimue's gaze, and with a nod, Aqua left Vista's Heart.

Aerith-Nimue carefully knelt down by Vista's side and placed her hand on his shoulder, only to feel the freezing heat his Heart's form gave off.

The light had been burned into him by the cutting blade of Strelitzia's darkness.

Bright Light could cast Deep Shadows, and Deep Shadows can only exist in the face of Great Light.

Aerith-Nimue could only do so much for him, as she guided healing mana into his system.

She summoned the purist of waters to wash out his wound that Aqua had managed to get to stop bleeding.

But the gash was deep, and for a wound to appear in both the Heart and Body, it would unfortunately be up to him to make it through.

Vista opened his eyes and blearily glanced at the woman beside him as he slurred, "Don't taint yourself for my sake."

Aerith-Nimue blinked in surprise before she huffed in slight relief, "I'm allowed to be worried about you, Vista."

The Darkling grumbled as he pushed himself onto his side to face her. He was covered in sweat, but he would have to ride this fever out. "If this were a few months ago, I'dve died from that for sure." He closed his eyes, pain tightening his features despite his attempts to shove away the pain. "Creating large Unversed was similarly destructive."

Aerith-Nimue's eyes widened as she went to say something, but Vista raised a hand to stop her. "It's alright, I can wake up now… So go back."

Aerith-Nimue frowned at his blatant attempt to push her away, but she relented. Nimue could not keep this up for much longer, and Aerith was not accustomed to such Magics.

She left him there as his Heart Station fell into silence.

Vista laid there for an immeasurable amount of time before he shoved himself up, and slowly stumbled across his Heart to ensure that it had reformed itself properly.

The Light had scorched a scarring crack into the glass.

xXx-xXx-awaken-xXx-xXx

Naminé sat beside Vista as she held his hand while Lady of Avalon stood beside her.

Aerith-Nimue had gone to find Merlin, and now all they could do was wait.

Vista's bleeding had stopped, and after Even had grumpily examined the wound, had stomped out to search for data.

One by one the others came to crowd around him. Sora and Kairi, followed by Riku, Roxas, and Xion.

They pushed away the cloth barriers to give them more space.

Every Wielder present waited with baited breath for the Darkling to wake up.

Even the final Dandelion waited with nervous anticipation.

Vista opened his eyes and yelped at the attention, "What the fuck!?"

Sora snorted as relief flooded him, "Welcome back!"

Vista glared at his grinning brother with a retort on his lips before Naminé squeezed his hand for attention, "Vista, are you alright?"

The Darkling snapped his mouth shut and looked at her, "I…" He grimaced before shifting to look behind him, only to jerk painfully away from the dark blood left behind him in shock. "Wh-!" He grabbed his shoulder, to try and stave off the pain that was shooting through him. "It's- what I deserve."

Ventus shifted forward and reached out towards him. Without a second thought Vista grabbed Ventus's hand, and his Other winced as he closed his eyes.

Vista frowned before he felt some of the pain bleed away from him. It wasn't Cure Magic, but Ventus returning the favor.

Or perhaps, taking his share of punishment.

Vista allowed himself a moment or relief before pulling his hand out of Ventus's with a snarl, "Don't."

Ventus gaped at him before slumping slightly, "Vista…"

Vista took in a deep breath and exhaled slowly, "I'm fine now. Thank you."

Ventus met his gaze, searching him, before relenting with a nod, "Alright."

Naminé pulled his hand again, and he met her gaze with a gentler expression, "Hey."

Naminé huffed as she held back tears, "This was supposed to make things better! Not Hurt you further!"

Vista shrugged with a twinge of discomfort, "It's not like we knew what would happen to me if we managed to remove Strelitzia's Heart completely from mine. Ours."

The girl in question finally stepped forward into their circle, pushing to the front gently before she shakily came to his bedside next to Naminé.

Vista wasn't sure what power-that-be hated him to manage to guide Roxas to a near replica of the girl's old clothing, but it was eerie seeing her dressed so similarly.

The sleeves and even less black were the primary differences between her old dress and this one. The collar was a nice touch as Strelitzia pursed her lips while she struggled to find her emotionally charged words. "I hate you."

Vista winced before rubbing her neck awkwardly, "I deserve it."

Strelitzia bowed her head as she clenched her teeth and balled her hands into her dress tightly. "I lost everything."

Vista laid his hands in his lap and nodded, "And I stole your everything."

Strelitzia exhaled shakily before slumping onto the side of his cot to wrap her arms around his neck as she wept against him. Her agonized emotions, the things she'd lost and would never again gain as the others took an uncomfortable step back, to give her space and to distance themselves from the sound of her grief.

Finally, when all of her emotions had run their course, she spoke hoarsely into his throat.

"Thank you for dragging me back."

xXx-xXx-awaken-xXx-xXx

If you were to ask Vista how his day was going, he would have a rather colorful answer for your trouble.

He wheezed as he stiffly made his way around Radiant Garden with Merlin and Aqua.

Aerith-Nimue looked back to him in worry, "Vista, you should really continue resting after everything your Heart's been through today."

Vista growled, "I refuse to be crowded by those Light loving mother-fasdkjn!"

Merlin clamped a hand over his Ward's filthy mouth and gave Aerith-Nimue an apologetic look while Aqua gaped at the Darkling before giggling, "Vista, are we really that bad?" Vista glared at the Master, and Aqua shrugged. "Sorry we care?"

Merlin sighed, "He's like an injured animal. He'd rather lick his wounds alone."

Aqua rolled her eyes, "Well, he now has too many people around him who care about him."

Vista growled and cautiously hunched his shoulders as red stained his cheeks.

Lady of Avalon grinned at the Darkling's antics, "He's a bit tsundere, isn't he Onii-sama?"

Whatever mirth Merlin had died as he gave his female self a pointed look, "Must you?"

Lady of Avalon batted her eyes at him innocently, "Whatever do you mean dear brother?"

Aqua glanced between the two of them before she stopped in realization, "Wait a minute- you're both Merlin?"

The chipper Pretender and put out Caster turned to her in unison, "Yes!"

Vista sniffed audibly, "Like we need two at once."

Lady of Avalon took fake offense while Merlin rolled his eyes as they continued onwards until they reached the fountain square.

The World's purity was clear in these waters as the five of them took a moment to appreciate the scenery and breathe before tackling the task at hand.

Merlin gently took Aerith-Nimue's hand, "Thank you my Lady for the help."

Aerith-Nimue glanced away for a moment before nodding with a small smile, "I was unable to help as much as I had hoped, but if nothing else, at least Chaldea won't treat this as an incident for investigation."

Merlin nodded, "And for that you have my most deepest of thanks."

The Wizard turned to his female counterpart as he released Aerith-Nimue's hand, "Thank you for bringing my Lady, and keeping Naminé's Power over Memory stable."

Lady of Avalon nodded, "You're welcome."

Vista blinked, "Wait what?" Four sets of eyes turned to him as he continued in confusion, "What do you mean by that?"

Lady of Avalon smiled gently at him as she stepped forward and placed her hand on his head in comfort, "Strelitzia's Memories reached out and touched all of yours, and you all reached back. That's why your Gardens crossed and settled in preservation the way they did. Otherwise you all might've been dragged under and hurt." Her eyes softened along with her voice, "If I hadn't kept things in line, you all may have started to share your physical scars."

Vista swallowed hard as he hoarsely spoke, "Oh." No one needed to bear the scars of his torturous training but him.

Lady of Avalon pulled away from them and in line with Aerith-Nimue. They shared a glance, and with a short bow took one another's hand and stepped onto the surface of the pure pool of water. Each step rippled the surface as they made their way seven steps in before Lady of Avalon slammed her staff onto the water's surface, causing a Magic Crest to appear.

The two turned as their bodies began to glow, as their Spirit Origins began to separate from their hosts and return to where they needed to be.

Be safe, and see you soon.

Merlin winced at the brightness, and in that moment, he sensed their presence leave as two startled yelps accompanied splashes into the fountain below.

Yuna grimaced as she sat unable to move in the water, her usual Gunner Dress soaked from the waist down. "Augh!"

Aerith blinked several times before shaking her head to gather herself before he pushed herself to her feet, her pink dress well and soaked through as she pulled it away from her to prevent the fabric from being see-through. "Well that was rude of them."

Merlin closed his eyes and rubbed his temple to stave off an oncoming headache, "My apologies young ladies, I don't think they quite thought their exit through enough for your sakes." He stepped forward onto the water and helped Yuna onto her feet.

The fairy stood unsteadily, unused to being people sized before Merlin motioned with his staff and dried the two girls off. Aerith smiled with a small nod, "Thank you, Merlin."

The Wizard accepted their thanks and guided them out of the fountain.

Yuna pouted, "How am I supposed to steal treasure now?"

Merlin gave her a strange look, "Could you not become like this before?"

Yuna gave him a weird look, "Of course n-" She stopped as her eyes seemed to unfocus in Memory. "-Oh." Yuna blinked and looked down at herself, as if seeing her appearance for the first time. "I think before..?"

Merlin nodded in understanding, while Vista scrunched his face up, "What the fuck's that mean?"

Aqua slapped a hand to her face tiredly, "Does it matter?"

Merlin grinned while Aerith hummed in thought, "I suppose it's like when the flowers speak to me." The four of them looked at her as she elaborated, "I remember things I haven't experienced… but they're my Memories."

Yuna nodded, "I remember being a Summoner, and my Guardians… Rikku was one of them, but…" She made a face, "That's not my life anymore."

Merlin nodded, "Yes, but the truth of that other you is still there. Her Memories and experiences left their mark on the you before us."

Yuna nodded solemnly, while Aerith clasped her hand over her diaphragm pained for a moment before relaxing.

Aqua crossed her arms, "So if Merlin's a concept, then these two are..?"

Merlin clicked his tongue, "Alternate versions from different timelines."

Vista grumbled with annoyance, "Just what we need. More bullshit."

Merlin gave him a pinched smile that spelled trouble, "Do you have something to add to the conversation, or are you here to bitch?"

Vista winced and crossed his arms before looking away, chastised.

Merlin sighed gently before taking Yuna's hand. A small amount of Light enveloped her before he pulled away, "Now you should be able to return to your fairy form, and you can also grant the ability to become people sized to your fellow Gullwings."

Yuna blinked before she grinned brightly, "Sweet! Rikku's gonna be totally stoked!" She turned with a skip jump and ran off to her usual hideout as Aerith shook her head.

The Flower Girl bowed to the other three, "Well then, I'd best be off." She nodded in Merlin's direction, "I hope to see your usual self soon, Merlin."

Merlin smiled, "Of course dear, I'll be around soon enough."

Aerith waved goodbye and went on her way as the three watched her go.

When Merlin turned to Aqua and Vista, his Ward couldn't meet his gaze.

Merlin closed his eyes, "Master, let us return to the apartment so that we can begin moving everyone's belongings to their new home at The Land of Departure."

Aqua started, glancing between Vista and the Wizard before nodding, "Alright, Merlin." She gave Vista one last worried look before walking away, "Let's go."

Merlin only dared to glance back at his charge once.

The stiff back and hunched shoulders were telling enough.

xXx-xXx-awaken-xXx-xXx

A/N: Welp. Most of this chapter was not as expected and I apologize for how jumpy it was.

I had planned out a scene where Lady of Avalon/Nimue call on and ask Yuna and Aerith for help, but then chose to skip that for the Ienzo scene, since I'd already deleted a version of it from last chapter. How it devolved into Skuld coming out as Poly/Pan wasn't planned, but I don't have the space within this story to flesh out everything, and it was an unexpected surprise, so apologies on that one. Much like the Wayfinder Trio, some of the characters just abruptly decide to work with me in the craziest of ways.

I'll try and post again later this week, possibly on my birthday, but I make no promises.

Please Read and Review!