Something that I really want to write about right now is the growth I have made as a writer. I hate looking back on the whole story of FDTA, and the beginning chappies of ETR. They seem so 'blah' to me. I was a horrible writer, and it's amazing that you girls read what I wrote. But when I read what I've written recently, especially the last chappies, I know that I couldn't have grown as a writer if it wasn't for all of you, my reviewers. If you read the first chappie of FDTA, and the last chappie of ETR, you can see there's a difference. I know that from your constructive criticism and encouragement I have become what I am today. And I just want to say…THANK YOU!
Mr. Moogle: Read what I said last chappie. XD
To Selphie Louise:
You are such a sweet girl! It is such a joy reading all of your reviews. I remember all the times you've helped me and gave me constructive criticism. I really appreciate everything! You're an amazing writer, and I always love reading your updates in Tome of Lineage. Thanks again!To Riku-of-Darkness:
Wow, it is so amazing to get reviews from such an excellent writer (by the way, I still need to read Candle in the Ice). Your writing completely blows me away, and I know you have helped me to become a better writer. I always love your reviews. They make me feel so good, and they let me know that everything I've done has been worthwhile. You are so special and I'm happy to know you're my friend.
To Zanisha:
That poor dog! XD Man, it's hard to put into words how I feel about you (that sounds wrong). Lol What I'm trying to say is, you've been such an inspiration to me. All the poems and stories you write are totally awesome! I know for sure you have helped me in so many ways. You're so nice and funny and you totally rawq! Sorry, I just had to use your word.
Thanks everyone, again! I know this isn't really goodbye, of course, since I'll be writing more stories and I'll be reviewing your stories. It's just a goodbye from this fic. Well, I don't want to keep you all any longer from the epilogue. Enjoy!
Epilogue"I knew I shouldn't have opened the door…" Jahu said jokingly, rolling her eyes then smiling as Mrainer stepped into her house. She had heard a knock at the door and opened it quickly, though the person there was not who she was expecting.
"What, and miss this beautiful face?" Mrainer said, flashing a grin. "Speaking of beautiful, you look absolutely stunning."
Jahu indeed looked very beautiful. Her naturally straight dirty blonde hair was now curly, adorned with tiny silver stars. She was wearing a zippy red dress with ruffles running down her left side. "Why, thank you."
"May I ask the occasion, or did you just call me over here to surprise me with a hot date?" Mrainer asked, folding his arms and leaning against the wall.
"Mrainer, just because we're friends doesn't mean you have to hit on me every second you can!" Jahu laughed.
"I know, I'm just playing with you." Mrainer said, lightly punching Jahu's arm. "But really, what's the scoop."
"Oh, nothing much. Just that I heard a certain someone is getting promoted to an official position in the Ha'tan government building." Jahu replied, winking.
"What! You mean I got the promotion? Alright!" Mrainer exclaimed, hugging Jahu. "But, how did you find out?" Mrainer asked curiously. "I'm not supposed to know until next week."
"Well, I've got my connections." Jahu said smugly.
"Lemme guess, your b-b-boy….uh…"
"My boyfriend? Yes." Jahu laughed. "He's someone you should remember a little more often. Maybe then you'd be able to stay out of trouble."
"I know, I know." Mrainer said. "But I can't believe I got the position!"
"Well," Jahu said, adjusting one of her earrings. "You should thank Xatoxeto. He really helped the council realize that you were the best man for the job."
"I'm surprised he'd want to help out a guy like me. I mean, I thought he hated my guts." Mrainer explained.
"No, not anymore at least. You know, ever since the Barbados disbanded it seems like everyone's becoming friends."
"Yah, and it seems like everyone's doing better too. I mean, look at us, I just got a promotion, and you have that job with the police as the Mystique Heart. Things have been great ever since…well…you know." Mrainer said.
"Yes, I know." Jahu said, a few thoughts of Mesna crossing her mind. "Well, it is pretty fun to be able to catch robbers and stuff by using my powers. There always seems to be tons of voices that let me know whether they committed a crime or not. And my powers have gotten stronger too, so now I can hear voices of what people will say or do in the future."
"Yah, the crime rate has gone way down, 'cause everyone knows you'd be able to catch them!" Mrainer laughed. "Well, thanks for telling me the good news! Now I won't be stressing out this whole week wondering if I got the promotion or not!"
"No problem." Jahu smiled. She gave Mrainer a hug and then he left. As soon as the door closed there was a knock at the door. Jahu laughed and she opened the door. "What now Mrainer-"
Jahu was met by a hunk of muscle and the smell of sweet cologne. The man lifted Jahu off of her feet, twirled her around, then set her down, planting a gentle but passionate kiss on her lips.
"Xato…I should have known it was you!" Jahu said, smiling. "I was about to think you weren't coming," she joked.
"Weren't coming?" Xato replied. "I wouldn't miss this night for anything!" He gave Jahu another kiss. "You look amazing, Jahu." Xato said, causing Jahu to blush. "So, are you ready for our date?"
"Absolutely." Jahu said. "Now, where exactly are you taking me?"
"You'll see." Xato said. He walked Jahu down the front steps and around the corner until she was met with a horse-drawn carriage.
Jahu gasped. "Oh, Xato, you didn't have to do this for me!"
"I know, but I wanted to." Xato said, running his fingers through his black hair. He lifted Jahu into the carriage and then climbed in as well. "You know where to go," he told the driver. The carriage ride wasn't too long, but it was nice while it lasted. Jahu and Xato cuddled and talked together as the 'clip clop' sound of the horse walking produced a steady beat.
"We're here." The man steering the carriage said. They slowly came to a stop, and when Jahu stepped out, she was met with an amazing view. Xato had prepared a little area for them on the beach. The waves crashed against the shore and made for a perfect scene.
"It's so beautiful…" Jahu said as they walked to the table and two chairs that were set up. On the table was an array of delicious foods and tasty drinks, and roses were scattered on the table and on the ground.
"This is incredible, Xato!" Jahu said as she sat down.
"Well, you're an incredible girl." Xato said. He scooted closer to Jahu, taking hold of her hands. "Jahu, I love you so much."
Jahu smiled. "I love you too."
Xato continued. "And, well, I…never thought that I'd meet someone like you. You're all I could've hoped for."
Jahu was listening to Xato, but her mind began to wander. What is he talking about? It sounds like he's going to…to…Jahu's eyes turned white as she put her powers to use. I wonder…
Xato stopped talking and held Jahu. He was used to her using her powers, but he didn't know what she'd see in him.
Jahu felt really good as she saw swirls of white and gray around her. C'mon, c'mon, Jahu said impatiently to herself. Get to the good stuff! Finally she started to hear Xato's voice.
I believe Mrainer is the best man for the job. I know that he is hardworking, and I have personally seen him grow in his knowledge and experience. He'll do all of us proud.
I wouldn't miss this night for anything!
You're all I could've hoped for. I know that we are meant to be together…forever. I could never live another moment without you. Jahu, would you marry me?
Tears began to flood Jahu's eyes. I was right! Jahu could feel herself coming back. She felt so much joy in her heart. She was in love with Xato, and she needed nothing more at that moment than to hear those words.
Xato saw Jahu come to, but was confused to see her tears. "Jahu, what's wrong? What happened?"
Jahu wiped her tears. Then smiled, pulling Xato in for a kiss. "Yes!"
"Yes? Yes what?" Xato said, still not understanding what had just happened.
Jahu felt her heart flutter. Her eyes could not have shown any brighter and her smile could not have been any bigger. "Yes, Xatoxeto! I will marry you!"
-----
"Heads up!" Kairi yelled after hitting the volleyball awkwardly. The ball went out of bounds, flying through the air until it landed on a red-haired guy.
"Ow!" Wakka said, rubbing his head. "Watch da hair, will ya?"
Kairi giggled as she kicked the sand. "Sorry Wakka. You're just always at the wrong place at the wrong time!"
"Ya, I know." Wakka laughed, lying back down in the sand.
"C'mon, Kairi, it's our ball!" Tidus yelled.
Kairi threw back the ball and ran to her side of the net. "Sorry about that. I'm such a bad teammate." Kairi apologized.
"Don't be sorry!" Sora said, giving Kairi a hug. "I'm just glad you're playing with me, that's all."
"Thanks." Kairi smiled.
"Alright, we're ready." Sora said, taking a stance.
"Are you sure? I don't think you can beat me and Tidus." Riku taunted.
"Yah, we're the best of the best!" Tidus exclaimed. He gave Riku a high five.
"Sure you are." Sora laughed, rolling his eyes.
Tidus served the ball, and it flew over the net perfectly. It was headed for Kairi. She hit the ball but it went backwards, away from the net. Sora did a nose dive and bumped the ball closer to the net. "Get it Kairi!" he yelled.
"Ah!" Kairi said as the ball came flying at her. She jumped up, and spiked the ball. It came down on the other side of the net. Riku tried to reach it, but he wasn't close enough, and the ball landed in the sand.
"Woo! I did it!" Kairi exclaimed.
Sora got up, sand covering his whole body. "Nice work, Kai." He joked.
"Pizza's ready!" Selphie called from the beach house. Wakka jumped up right away, and Riku and Tidus ran in soon after.
"Be there in a minute!" Sora called. "I gotta wash this sand off."
Kairi giggled, putting her hands behind her back. "You should be a little more careful playing volleyball."
Sora grinned, running to the cool cerulean water. "I guess maybe next time I should just let them have the point." Sora dove into the water, swimming out a little bit, then backstroked back to the shore. He shook out his hair, then sat down in the shallow water.
Kairi sighed, sitting down next to Sora. They sat there for a moment, staring out into the distance. The golden orb was beginning to set, and the red and yellow colors reflected off the water, creating a painted masterpiece before them.
"Remember…" Sora said softly. "Remember when all we wanted to do was get off this island?"
Kairi kicked up some water with her foot. "Yah, I remember…"
"And now…now we don't ever want to leave." Sora continued.
"We'll never have to." Kairi said, taking Sora's hand. "The game is over. In the end, we won."
"But what if-"
Kairi covered Sora's mouth with her finger. "Don't." Kairi stared into Sora's blue eyes. "There is no 'what if'. I can feel it deep down in my heart."
"I can feel it too." Sora said, putting his hand to where Kairi's heart was. "I know what you are feeling in your heart…because that's where I am."
Kairi smiled. "And that's where you'll always stay."
-----
The garden smelled of freshly cut grass and newly bloomed flowers. A group of ten students or so were gathered at the edge of the garden, listening to their instructor teach.
"Now, hold out your hand like this. Concentrate on your hand and focus all of your attention and energy into that one spot. Once you feel you are ready, say 'Wind!'" the young woman demonstrated the technique, creating a large ball of swirling air.
"Miss Vern!" a small boy cried out. "I can't do it!"
Vern smiled with understanding, tucking a strand of midnight hair behind her ear before she walked over to the student. "Come now, Josiah, all you need is a little practice. Here, watch me." Vern held out her hand again and focused her energy there. "Wind!" The swirling mass appeared again in Vern's hand. "See. Now you try."
Josiah scratched his arm, then stuck out his hand. After receiving a nod from his teacher, he started to concentrate on the palm of his hand. He blocked out all the sights and sounds around him. "Wind!" he called out. A wide grin spread across Josiah's face as a small mass of air formed in his hand. "I did it! I did it, Miss Vern!"
Vern laughed. "See, I told you you could do it! All you need is a little practice."
A little girl, another student, walked up to Vern, tugging on her skirt. "Miss Vern, your ball of wind was really big, but ours are so small. Will we ever be as powerful as you are?"
Vern smiled. "Of course you will, Myna. It just takes time. I know all of you will become very powerful sorcerers and sorceresses one day."
"Can you tell us a story again!" Myna asked. "I really liked the one you told us yesterday, about the mermaid and the evil sea witch!"
"Well," Vern said in thought. "Alright. You kids have had enough lessons for today."
The rest of Vern's students ran to her and sat in the grass, eyes wide with excitement. "What story would you like me to tell?" Vern asked, kneeling in the green grass.
"Ooh, the one about you and the keyblade master!" Josiah exclaimed.
"Yah, and the Misty Heart!" another student said excitedly.
"The Mystique Heart." Vern corrected, laughing. "Are you sure? I've told you that story about a hundred times!"
"Oh, we could never get sick of that story, Miss Vern! Please tell it to us again!" Myna begged.
"I will, I will." Vern said, her mind beginning to fill up with the past memories. "I will tell it to you whenever you want me to."
"Don't forget to talk about us!" a squeaky voice quacked. Donald emerged from a trimmed bush, with Goofy right behind him.
"Donald, Goofy! It's good to see you two." Vern stood up and hugged them both. "I would never leave you guys out of the story!"
"Then I'm sure you wouldn't forget about me either." King Mickey smiled, walking up to the group.
"Your Majesty," Vern said, bowing. Her students quickly got up and did the same.
"No need to do that for me." Mickey said modestly.
"Do you need something?" Vern asked.
"Actually, I came to hear your story." The mouse grinned. He sat down next to one of the children. "Donald, Goofy, care to join me?"
"Hyuck, a'course!" Goofy said, plopping down next to Mickey. Donald sat down as well.
"Well, it looks like I have a bigger audience today." Vern said happily. "Alright, about a year ago, there was an evil man named Ansem. He led a group of monsters called Heartless around to other worlds, trying to spread evil and darkness. Ansem-"
A little girl named Cerion raised her hand. She was new and had never heard the story before. "Miss Vern, I have a question…about the Heartless. Will we ever be able to see one?"
"Only in pictures." Vern explained. "You wouldn't want to meet a Heartless anyway. They're very scary and will hurt anyone if they could."
Myna spoke up. "Didn't that boy kill-"
Vern quickly interrupted. "Ah, don't say anything. You don't want to ruin the story for those who haven't heard it yet."
"Sorry," Myna said, blushing. "I just get so excited when I think of this story."
Cerion clapped her hands. "It sounds really good! Continue the story, Miss Vern!"
Vern nodded. "But remember children, this is not just a story. It really happened, to Donald, Goofy, King Mickey, and me. It is something that will always remain a part of our lives."
Cerion thought a moment, and then spoke. "No wonder you didn't start off by saying 'Once upon a time…'"