DISCLAIMER: I don't own Kingdom Hearts, nor the Disney and Square Enix characters. Please support the original works.

A/N:

Not to bore y'all with all the details, but a LOT has been happening down here in boring old real life...and this is the last of my buffer chapters...meaning that updates may slow down again. Trust me, no one wants to get to the end of this project more then me, and I'm doing my best to get the work done, but I thought a heads up would be nice.


Chapter Twenty Four: Back to Start


The Legacy docked at Montressor Space Port. Captain Amelia took Balthier, Kairi, and Riku to prison. Jim, having no choice to go along with his captain, or risk blowing his cover, ordered Sora to finish up the docking process. Knowing that Captain Amelia would threaten to court marshal Jim if her ship wasn't spick and span, Sora make sure the ship was spot on. By the time he finished and made it to the prison building, Locke was already walking out.

He was standing right in front of the robot guards, shaking Captain Amelia's hand.

"Apologies, Mr. Cole. As a law abiding member of the naval forces, I cannot release prisoners without evidence, or due process."

Locke shrugged. "In my experience, law enforcement tends to be more corrupt. I don't begrudge you for doing your job well."

Amelia gave him a single raised eyebrow. "Well, you certainly take things in stride." With her hands behind her back she said, "Farewell Mr. Cole. In the future, I do hope you are not in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Sora waited until Amelia walked into the prison building before he ran up to talk to Locke. Seeing Sora, Locke pointed to a nearby alleyway. The two young men gathered between the brick walls. Locke leaned his back against the wall. He didn't even have to open his mouth, because Sora began quickly telling the convoluted story of how he and his friends had cleared his name. By the time Sora was done, Locke put a hand over his eyes.

"Kid, I've done some dumb things when I was your age, but not something as crazy as committing several crimes just to get someone else out of the slammer." Locke laughed. "Thanks, by the way. But now we have to rescue your friends."

"What about Terra?" Sora asked. "Aren't you worried about her?"

"I'm guessing that she disappeared with that sky pirate. Fran, was it? Don't worry. Terra will be back. It's not like her to abandon people. Until she meets up with us, we're going to have to orchestrate a jail break." Locke looked up into the sky. "Looks like a nebula storm is on its way. It'll be the perfect cover if we can guess how soon it will get here and how long it will last."

"I know who can give you that information."

Sora and Locke turned. Jim was standing in the mouth of the alley.

"Now I have no idea what you two were talking about," Jim winked, "but I sounds like you're interested in astronomy, right?"

Sora grinned. "Yep."

"Dr. Doppler is by the Legacy's dock. He can tell you about the storm." Jim stretched. "As for me, I have a lot of first mate responsibilities to get to. You know how it is, now that I'm on the straight and narrow."

Sora and Locke nodded sympathetically. "Of course. Of course."

Jim and Sora clasped hands, giving each other a respectful nod between men. When they stepped apart, Jim saluted.

"It was great to voyage with you again. Not sure what you plan to do now that you've found you friends, but if you ever need any help, you know where to find me."

Sora saluted Jim back. "It was a pleasure, First Mate Hawkins. Hope we can chase the stars again one day."

"That line is so weird coming from you." Jim rolled his eyes. "You are one bad actor."

"Takes one to know one."

Jim was still laughing when he turned his heel and began to walk back out into the port.


Dr. Doppler was leaning over a series of wooden crates. The Legacy floated in the harbor behind him. Amelia and Jim were already on deck, preparing for another voyage. Dr. Doppler's eyes never left the series of star maps before him. When Sora tapped the doctor on his shoulder, Doppler flailed his hands in panic, spilling all of his charts and maps to the ground.

"Sorry," said Sora as he bent to pick up the rolls of parchment paper.

Locke helped Sora put the maps back on the wooden crates. Doppler, getting over his initial shock, adjusted his spectacles. He extended his hand to Locke.

"So glad to see you free, chap. I knew you were innocent the whole time, and I'd venture to say that Amelia did too. She just has appearances to keep."

"No grudges here," said Locke, shaking the doctor's hand.

"So, what brings you by?"

"Actually, Doctor, I wanted to get some astronomical advice."

Dr. Doppler's facial muscles twitched with excitement. "Did you now? What would you like to know? The latest theories on interplanetary travel, the newly discovered black holes on the edges of the coral galaxy? Or perhaps..."

"Is there a nebula storm coming?" Sora blurted. "Will it be a bad one?"

Doppler's lips dropped. "Your question is about weather patterns. Of course." Sighing, Doppler pulled a telescope out of his trouser pocket. He peered through the lens, looking up at the stars. "I'd say the storm will be upon us in two hours. Shouldn't last for more then double that time."

"How dark will it get?" asked Locke. "Will it be safe to use lanterns?"

Doppler shook his head. "You're better off using more archaic means, like candles. The energy of the storm may short circuit anything that requires electrical power."

"What about the ships?" Sora asked. "Aren't you guys setting sail?"

"The vessels have protective measures in place. Plasma pods aren't affected by such electrical storms."

"Well, looks like Sora and I are better off catching up indoors, and out of danger."

"Quite right," Dopper agreed. "Cosmic storms are not to be taken lightly. You know I had colleague that lost an-"

"Maybe some other time Doctor." Locke gripped Sora's arm. "We better find shelter before the storm hits. Have a safe journey."

Dr. Doppler shrugged, waving goodbye as Locke dragged Sora off.

"I'm confused," Sora said, "how will this storm help us exactly?"

"A nebula storm means that area around the prison building will be obscured. Plus, the guards' mechanical eyes and scanners would be partly scrambled by the storm."

Locke took Sora a nearby tavern, treating the boy to a bowl of fresh purps while the two of them talked about their plan to break out Riku and Kairi. Sora munched, listening to Locke's plan, until a hand slammed down on the table between them. Looking up, Sora nearly choked on his fruit. Fran stood above him.

"Your friend is free, yes?" She pointed to Locke. "Then perhaps you can help me rescue my partner."

"Locke!"

Terra appeared. She took the empty seat next to Locke, and held the treasure hunter's wrist in her hands.

"You're free. Thank goodness."

Locke covered his friend's hand with his own, giving her a reassuring smile. "It's all thanks to you and Sora's friends."

Fran invited herself to the table, taking the empty chair next to Sora. Though her expression was neutral, the look she gave Sora made him feel as though she could read his mind. And her next words made him wonder if she actually had.

"You are not of this world."

"What? How did you know that?"

Fran's bunny ears swiveled. "A clever boy would keep his voice down."

Sora blushed. "Sorry."

"Balthier is a bit," Fran paused, searching for the right word, "outlandish. However, sky pirates fly in pairs."

"You want us to free him too?"

Fran nodded. "And as payment, I will pilot the Strahl to whatever world you would like to be taken to."

Terra and Locke exchanged a look.

"So you guys knew about other worlds too. Should've figured. Well, I'm in. My friends and I need to get back to the rest of our team, anyway," said Sora.

"Mind adding two more to that journey?" Locke asked.

Fran raised an eyebrow.

"There's no reason for Terra and I to stay in this world anymore."

Fran waved a hand. "Very well. Now then, the plan."

After an hour of brainstorming, Fran and Locke had worked out all the details of their jail break. It turned out that, before bringing Terra to the tavern, Fran had used the Strahl to follow the Legacy at a safe distance. She had also scoped out the prison building, using her sensitive hearing and nose to find weaknesses in the structure.

The final plan turned out to be a lot similar to what Sora had done to steal the Legacy. Terra would cause a ruckus on one of the nearby harbors, drawing the robot guards away from the prison building. Then, Sora and Locke would infiltrate the building, using Fran's recon to break in. They would release Riku, Kairi, and Balthier from their cells, and then head to the roof. Once there, Fran would bring down the Strahl and everyone would board. They would be off, and Terra would catch up once the coast was clear.

At least that was how the plan was supposed to go.

The back of Sora's shirt was moist, both from the mist in the air, as the cosmic storm drew closer, and from the cold evening dew that had settled over the wall of the prison building. He stood next to Locke, waiting for Terra's signal. The two young men had their bodies pressed to the north side of the prison building. It was the best, and most perilous, place to blast their way in, since it faced the harbor and would be out of sight. Sora stood on a thin ledge. One step forward, and he would fall straight into the vast emptiness of space.

Along the wall, right next to Sora, there was a crack. All it would take was one heavy swing of the keyblade and the concrete would come tumbling down. However, the guards would hear the noise, which was why Locke and Sora had to wait for the inevitable cacophony of Terra's distraction before they could bash the wall and get in.

Sora shivered as a cosmic blast of wind moved over his skin. The nebula clouds above them were thundering with the need to release their pent up, cosmic energy. According to Locke, a cosmic storm didn't have rain. It had electric charges, wind, and thousands of sharp, crystalline, space debris. They had to do their job fast, or risk being covered head to toe in sharp, stinging paper cuts.

The sound of a hundred cannons pounded through the air, vibrating through Sora's heart. It was followed by the high pitched shriek of shattering glass, and the surprised, monotoned voices of the robo-guards.

"Disturbance sighted. Flames aboard four ships in the harbor."

"Cosmic storm inbound. The wind will spread the flames. Extinguishing the fires take priority over guard duty."

Sora grit his teeth as another round of loud bangs and crashes reached his ears. It was time. He lifted his arm, and slammed the keyblade against the prison wall. The keyblade's teeth hit the crack. The wall crumbled, whole chunks of concrete falling into space. Skirting the wall, Sora and Locke entered the dingy interior of the prison building.

The prisoners inside the cells screamed and rattled the bars, reaching out to try and grab Sora and Locke as they ran past. Some begged to be set free, others threatened. Sora ignored them, searching the cells until he found-

"I was wondering when you would show up to bust me out."

Sora skid to a stop, turning to face a prison cell. Riku was leaning his shoulder against the bars, completely relaxed despite the screaming from within the prison.

Sora aimed his keyblade at the lock on Riku's cell. The cell door swung open. Riku walked out, patting Sora on the shoulder as thanks.

"Lead on."

They found Kairi on the second floor, and Balthier on the third.

"Well, you certainly took your time. I was wondering when the cavalry would arrive."

While Sora released the lock, Riku clicked his teeth at Balthier.

"You planned this, didn't you?"

"In a manner of speaking." Balthier shrugged. "I always knew Fran would come after me. I just didn't expect her round up this motley crew to do it."

Balthier's cell door opened. He stepped out, and then stiffened, putting a finger to his lips.

Robotic voices had silenced the screaming prisoners.

"Intruders detected."

"Up on the third floor," a gruff prisoner yelled.

Sora grit his teeth. "Get to the roof," he whispered harshly.

The escapees found the ladder to the top of the building. The moment they were on the roof, Balthier and Riku closed the roof hatch, locking it seconds before the robo-police banged against it. The cosmic storm had started, and Sora hissed when a sharp shard of crystal sliced into his arm. The whirring of plasma engines reached his ears. Sora looked up, shielding his eyes from the Strahl's landing lights. The ship's lower hatch opened.

Balthier, Locke, and Riku were the first to jump up into the Strahl. Kairi and Sora were just about to follow, when the roof hatch snapped open and two robot guards spotted them.

"Escapees found."

"Wait. Isn't that boy Jim Hawkin's friend?"

Sora was suddenly pulled backward. A sword hovered in front of his neck. He looked over his shoulder, staring, wide eyed at Kairi.

"Sorry, officers." Kairi winked. "I'm kidnapping this boy. You see, I've grown rather fond of him."

"Wait, really?" Sora bit his tongue. "I mean, oh nooooo. How terrible. Save me, officers, please."

Riku grabbed Kairi's elbow, tugging both her and Sora onto the Strahl. "Stop flirting and get on the stupid ship," he hissed.

"I wouldn't make a move if I were you," Kairi called to the robots.

Slowly, the hatch closed. Kairi kept up her ruse until the robot guards disappeared behind the sealed metal door. Once the Strahl had safely flown up into the sky, Kairi let Sora go. She batted her eyes at him, and then turned her heel, sashaying deeper into the ship.

"That's one sharp girl," said Locke.

"Shame the boy that she fancies doesn't seem to get the hint," Balthier added.

Sora rounded on the sky pirate. "What do you mean by that?"

Balthier shrugged, walking by Sora without even looking at him. "Dilly-dally any longer and you'll miss your chance. Gentlemen do not hesitate."

"No kidding," Riku and Locke agreed, walking deeper into the Strahl.

All Sora could do was stand there and awkwardly rub the back of his head. That, and let the funny combination of hot embarrassment and the silly but, warm, glow of love flow through his heart and cheeks.


Balthier and Fran weren't one for long goodbyes, it turned out. Once they had landed on the outskirts of Twilight Town, the pair of them had simply waved at their coconspirators, and then walked back to the ship.

"Thanks for everything," Sora said. "See you around?"

"Of course," said Balthier. "The leading man always comes back at the end of the show."

"I'd say you're more of a supporting role," said Fran.

Balthier rolled his eyes. "Fran. Please."

The two sky pirates entered their ship and were off, vanishing into the sky. Sora took a deep breath of fresh, summer air, smelling the forest around him. Terra marveled at the trees and orange rays of the setting sun.

"It's been so long since I've seen nature with my own eyes," she said.

"Oh yeah, because you were turned into magicite," Sora said. He turned to Locke. "Been meaning to ask, how did you change Terra back?"

Locke shrugged. "While exploring the various planets, Terra's magicite would react every once in a while. I just kept sailing in the direction that lead to more reactions. Eventually, I found an orb of powerful light. The magicite was drawn into it, and before I knew it, Terra was back to normal."

"So now that you two are free, what do you plan to do?"

Locke stretched. "Besides relax? Well, I have a feeling more crazy stuff is going to happen, so we'll stick around in this town, at least until you need some backup."

"Our world's long gone," said Terra. "Who knows what we'll do now."

"I'm sure you'll find your place," said Riku.

"Wonder if there's any treasure to find in this world," Locke mused.

"I wouldn't count on it," Riku said. "It's pretty cozy here. Doesn't seem like there are too many wonders or mysteries."

Locke gave Riku a smug look. "That sounds like a challenge. There is no such thing as a town without treasure."

"If you say so. As for us," Riku nodded to Kairi and Sora, "we'd better get to Master Yen Sid."


Locke and Terra thanked Sora, Riku, and Kairi. Before he left, Locke reached into one of his many pockets and gave Sora a bottle. Inside the sealed flask, galaxy colored liquid swirled. Every once in a while, it looked as though there were shooting stars moving in the sparkling liquid.

"Mega-elixir," said Locke. "Found it on one of my treasure hunts. Take it with you. You'll need it."

After taking a break to shop, resupply, and get a snack from Tiana's restaurant (boudin sausage fritters with aioli), the party walked to the station. Yen Sid's train was already waiting for them when they arrived. When Sora, Riku, and Kairi walked out onto Yen Sid's floating island, they were surprised to hear a few familiar voices from further up the trail. One of them was a voice that belonged to neither Yen Sid's tower, nor a member of Twilight Town.

"I'll pay fifty percent of the price, and that's my final offer!"

Kairi wrinkled her nose. "Is that Mr. McDuck?"

"Full price!" A girlish voice argued.

Now it was Riku's turn to made a face. "Eiko?"

"Forty!"

"You just went down! I'm running a business here, not a charity!"

At the base of Yen Sid's tower, Scrooge McDuck and Eiko were glaring hard at each other. Neither of them blinked, as though doing so would somehow make one or the other accept their terms. Floating right next to the island, a little ways beyond Scrooge, was his gummi ship. Launchpad and Darkwing Duck leaned against the vessel, munching on popcorn while they watched the argument between the old duck and the little girl.

"Lass," Scrooge tapped his flipper, "this is your last change. Thirty percent for all of Tantalus services, and I'll offer you free passage to Hollow Bastion."

Eiko growled. "What kind of offer is that? You're the one that needs us to go to Hollow Bastion and help you with deliveries. So you should pay our full fee!"

By the gummi ship, Darkwing chuckled. "She's got spunk. I like her. Reminds me of my daughter."

"Hey, DW," Launchpad said between mouthfuls of popcorn, "you think Gosalyn and that Eiko girl might get along?"

"Full price or nothing!" Eiko stomped her feet. "Or find yourself another delivery company!"

"Eiko, I can hear you through the walls. What's going on?"

Zidane and Vivi walked out of the tower, coming to stand by their friend. While Zidane tried to calm down Eiko, Vivi noticed Sora, Riku, and Kairi watching in the distance. He left his group of friends so that he could greet the trio.

"You're okay," Vivi said to Kairi. "When you went flying up into the sky, Max was really worried. We looked all over the town for you."

Kairi smiled at Vivi. "Thanks for worrying about me. Where are Oswald and Ortensia?"

Vivi pointed to Yen Sid's tower. "After we couldn't find you, we brought them here. They're resting upstairs."

Kairi bit her lip. "Oswald is still unconscious?"

"The master said he's used too much magic over time. He'll be fine. He just needs rest. So, um, don't worry."

Kairi pressed her knuckles to her cheeks. "Sora, hold me back. Otherwise I'm going to hug him until he pops!"

While Kairi suffered from cuteness overload, Sora asked Vivi about Eiko and Scrooge's argument.

"Mr. McDuck got here a little while ago. He and Eiko started talking about business, and they've been fighting ever since."

"WHO PAYS TEN PERCENT OF A REGULAR DELIVERY FEE? STOP TRYING TO RIP US OFF, YOU OLD GEEZER!"

Riku broke off from his friends, running across the lawn to help Zidane wrangle Eiko. The little girl was kicking and screaming. Zidane had his arms wrapped tightly around her waist. Judging by the sweat coating Zidane's forehead, Eiko was about to break free and throttle Scrooge, who, for his part, didn't seem the least bit bothered by the little girl's tantrum.

"Easy, Eiko." Riku slowly approached the girl. He held up his hands as though he were trying to calm down a rampaging horse. "Is this really how a lady behaves?"

Eiko stopped struggling so that she could glare at Riku instead. Zidane let out a breathe of relief. By this time, Sora, Vivi, and Kairi had made it to the base of the tower. Kairi reached down and tapped Scrooge's shoulder.

"Mr. McDuck, I don't think you're being fair. Wouldn't you want someone to pay your services in full as well?"

"All right, lass. I'll pay the full price." Scrooge sighed. "So much for trying to save a little munny."

Eiko swung her legs so violently that she almost kicked Riku in the gut. "What? You'll listen to her but not me? You jerk!"

Scrooge laughed. "You have spirit, little lass. I've no doubt you'll be a real business tycoon when you're older."

Scrooge's rare compliment seemed to knock the wind out of Eiko's sails. She was still unhappy, as evidenced by her crossed arms and the "hmph" sound coming out from between her pursed lips. She stopped struggling, allowing Zidane to finally put her down. While Riku and Zidane both tried to placate the still fuming Eiko, Sora asked Scrooge why he was at Master Yen Sid's tower.

"Launchpad and I were getting ready to take some supplies to Professor Von Drake in Hollow Bastion when Majesty Minnie asked us to deliver a letter for her." Scrooge dug into his robe. "Here you are lad."

Sora took the letter from Scrooge, but he didn't open it right away.

"Wait. If you're hiring Tantalus Delivery to help you take the supplies to Hollow Bastion..." Sora glanced at Zidane. "So, you know about other worlds too?"

Zidane clicked his teeth. "I've known for a while. Geez, Sora. Give me some credit. You think I wasn't able to put the clues together when Master Yen Sid's mysterious messages appeared in our delivery mail box? Or when Ms. Tiana appeared in Twilight Town? Or when you and your team suddenly appeared out of nowhere?"

"We know everyone there is to know in Twilight Town," Eiko added. "Plus, once Kairi flew off into space, it wasn't that much of a stretch."

"And Merlin comes and goes all the time," Vivi said. "He has to go somewhere."

Sora bent forward, letting his hands danger in front of his knees for a moment. "And Donald still gives me a hard time to breaking the world order." Straightening, Sora popped the wax seal on Queen Minnie's letter. He read the short message inside. His face went pale, hands flopping to his sides.

"What does it say?" Kairi asked.

"Belle is missing," Sora said.

"What?" Riku stepped away from Eiko, stomping up to Sora. "Are you sure?"

"That's what the letter says," Sora replied, waving the paper.

Kairi rubbed her arms. "This isn't good."

She and Sora rushed into the Yen Sid's tower. Riku hesitated for a moment before he followed.

"Got things handled here?" Riku asked Zidane.

The blond boy shrugged. "Don't worry. Eiko always gets like this when people try to haggle. We'll get paid for our work and then we'll be out of here. Go do your thing."


"Master Yen Sid! We have important news for y-"

"SORA!"

Donald and Goofy tackled the boy, knocking him off balance and making him fall hard on his behind. In between hugs, words of relief, and friendly affection, Sora struggled.

"Guys! I'm glad to see you too but we have big news and-"

It was no use. Sora couldn't resist the excitement of returning to his friends. Before long, he too was shaking hands, thumping shoulders, and hugging his two best buddies. Kairi and Riku walked in, smiling as they strode by the bundle of happy friends on the floor. Then, they too had to brace for impact. Mickey ran forward and leapt up into Riku's arms. At the same time, Max collided with Kairi. He hugged her for one second before stepping back.

Max glared. "Are you trying to give me a heart attack? That's the second time you disappeared on me."

Kairi gave him an apologetic smile. "At least it wasn't on purpose this time."

While Kairi and Max laughed away the awkwardness of their reunion, Riku gently lowered Mickey back to the ground.

"What's wrong, pal? Did something happen?"

Riku rubbed his temple. "It's only been two seconds and you already know something's up with me?" He chuckled. "I'm fine. A lot of stuff happened. We have some big things to report. "

"Then perhaps it would be best to begin this meeting."

Master Yen Sid's sagely voice broke the happy spell of reuniting friends. Everyone lined up before the master's desk, awaiting his next words with the steadfast attention of a well trained army.

"I am grateful that you are all safe and sound," the master began. "And Kairi, thank you for returning my apprentices to me."

Kairi blushed. "Can I see Oswald and Ortensia?"

Yen Sid glanced at the door on the right side of the room. "Let them rest for now. To be in the realm of darkness for as long as they have, and to come out unscathed, is nearly unfathomable. The'll need time to recover."

Kairi nodded solemnly and stepped back into line.

King Mickey took over the meeting next. He told Master Yen Sid about the chaos that Professor Von Drake had predicted and Santa's warning about the light. Then he explained how Sora and Riku had blasted off into space. Mickey waved at the two friends, signaling for them to take over.

Sora, Riku, and Kairi turned toward each other.

"This is hard to explain," Sora began, "but I think we were summoned by someone."

The three friends reported how they had found the orange, blue, and green star charms, the same ones that were depicted in the book that Merlin was deciphering. They explained how each of the charms had glowed, and whisked away their holders, depositing them to a world in ruins.

"We fought some heartless there," Sora said.

"Tough ones," Riku added.

"They were neoshadows, but they were incredibly fast." Kairi bit her lip. "And they had red eyes."

Though Master Yen Sid's face remained impassive, an observant person would have noticed the slight widening of his eyes. He said nothing, letting the keyblade master continue his report.

"After we beat the red eyed heartless, that's when she came. A woman in a suit of armor."

Everyone in the room stiffened as Sora described Aqua's fighting skill, and her warning about the true nature of the red eyed heartless.

"She said her name was Aqua. She also wore the same symbol that was on the book that Merlin was deciphering. The one only Kairi can touch. Do you know who she is?"

"I do," said a new voice.

Master Yen Sid rose from his chair. Oswald stood in front of the door on the right side the room. He hobbled forward, barely able to put one step in front of the other. Then his knees buckled and he fell on his behind. Before Kairi could move, King Mickey darted across the room. He pulled Oswald's arm across his shoulders, helping the rabbit stand.

Oswald blinked at Mickey.

"Who are you?"

"I'm Mickey."

Oswald's eyes widened. "The king? What are you doing here?"

"Well, I'm one of the keyblade masters. Plus, we share a master, don't you know?"

Oswald narrowed his eyes. "I see."

He looked around the room, but didn't glance at Master Yen Sid. Instead, he focused on Sora.

"Is that him?" He asked Kairi.

"Yup." "I thought he'd be taller."

"I have ears, you know." Sora's grumpy statement was undermined by the chuckle in his voice. "What have you been saying about me?"

Kairi wiggled her fingers. "All of your hidden secrets."

Sora pretended to gasp. "Oh no. You've spoiled the mystery. Whatever shall I do?"

Oswald smiled. "Yup, that's definitely Sora."

"Anyway," Riku interrupted before his two best friends could turn the conversation into a quipping war. "Back to the topic. You know Aqua?"

Oswald nodded, his smile fading as a grave expression took over. "The woman in the armor? Yes. I ran into her only once, in the realm of darkness. She had been there long time, longer then me. What was strange was that she didn't want to leave the realm of darkness."

"Was she looking for someone too?" Kairi asked.

Oswald's nose twitched. "No. She wanted to go deeper. 'All the way down to the bottom of the abyss,' she said."

"Why?" Mickey and Sora asked.

"I don't know. But.-

Oswald looked at King Mickey, eyes full of uncertainty.

"You said you're one of the keyblade masters."

Mickey nodded.

"Do you have the keyblade from the realm of darkness?"

Mickey's brows furrowed. "Yes."

"Do you know why your keyblade was there?"

"There have always been only two keyblades. One from the realm of light, the other from the realm of darkness."

"I thought that once too, but we were wrong," Oswald said. "Both keys come from Kingdom Hearts. The reason you found your keyblade in the realm of darkness is because that's where Aqua lost it."

An atmosphere of fear settled over everyone. For the first time since he had entered the room, Oswald looked at Master Yen Sid. The great wizard's face was grave, but he kept his voice even as he spoke.

"What are you saying, Oswald?"

"Aqua is the last, surviving keyblade master. From ten thousand years ago."

There was a stunned silence for several seconds, followed by the exchanging of confused, questioning looks which was quickly replaced by the loud thunder of several voices talking at once. It stopped when Master Yen Sid held up a hand, silencing everyone in the room.

"We've had quite a few shocking revelations. It you please, would you leave the tower for now? A moment's privacy would give me better insight as to our future course of action."

"Right," Mickey said, "everyone, if you would?"

"Mickey, that includes you too."

The king gave a his master a wide eyed stare for a moment. Though surprised by the request, he didn't hesitate. Carefully, he stepped away from Oswald. When the rabbit was steady, Mickey herded everyone else out of the room. Then, only Master Yen Sid and Oswald remained.

Master Yen Sid moved away from his desk. With his hands behind his back, he loomed over Oswald. The rabbit's ears flopped behind his head. He looked down at the ground, his fists shaking at his side.

"Master...I..I'm-"

A soft hand patted Oswald's head. The rabbit froze, waiting for a lecture, anger, shame, or guilt. Yet, Master Yen Sid's words were full of kindness.

"I am relieved beyond words that you are alive, that you and Ortensia have returned to me."

Tears welled up in Oswald's eyes. He wrapped his arms around Master Yen Sid's legs, sobbing into the wizard's robes. "You were right. We never should have followed Marluxia. So many people were lost, and Ortensia was swallowed by the darkness and I-"

"Be not ashamed, Oswald. You did what you felt was right. I should have been more honest about the nature of the world, and the importance of the realm of darkness. I feared giving you and Ortensia too much knowledge would lead you down an errant path. I was wrong for not informing you of the dangers."

Oswald leaned back, sniffling. "I should have listened. Because of me, Ortensia suffered for...I don't know how long."

Master Yen Sid shook his head. "No need to apologize. It is all behind us now. What matters is that you and Ortensia are home and safe."

Oswald nodded, stepping back so that he could wipe his eyes.

"Now then, I'm sure you have questions about the last fifty years."

Oswald swallowed. "Fifty years. Has it really been that long?"

"Yes. Let me tell you the state of things.


The news about Aqua hadn't just put everyone on edge; it had opened up a whole new list of questions that no one really had an answer for. The team had gathered in a circle below Yen Sid's tower. Everyone took turns voicing their concerns. The nervous talk was more about easing anxieties then it was about planning or finding solutions. Riku listened to everyone's worries, unconsciously picking up on their emotions by feeling the fluctuating waves of light and darkness around him. One of the waves surprised him.

By the time Riku had turned toward Mickey, the little king had separated from the rest of the group. He went to the edge of the floating island, and sat down, dangling his feet over the cliff. Riku left the group so that he could follow his friend. Normally, Mickey had an energetic, kind, and brave light. When he had moved away, Riku had felt a small flare up of darkness. And that worried him.

He stood behind King Mickey. "Are you upset that Master Yen Sid dismissed you?"

Mickey sighed. "No. I was hoping to make a better first impression."

"On Oswald?"

"Yup." Mickey leaned forward, elbows on his knees. "When I first came to Master Yen Sid for training, he turned me away. I had to keep coming back, again and again, trying to prove myself, show him I could learn."

"What made Master Yen Sid change his mind?"

"I stole his hat."

Riku raised an eyebrow. "Is this another thing that landed you on Santa's naughty list?"

"It might have been one of them," Mickey admitted, chuckling sheepishly.

"So what happened next?"

"Well, I didn't really steal the master's hat. He just left it lying around, and I couldn't help but try it on. And after that, well, let's just say it got really flooded around here." Mickey leaned back, swinging his legs. "After the mess I made, Master Yen Sid was so angry. I thought for sure that he wouldn't let me train under him, but he gave me a bucket and mop. After I was done cleaning up, he told me that there are no shortcuts to magic. He said that if I really wanted to learn, then I had to show him how responsible I could be. He didn't want me to make the same mistake as his last apprentice."

"Did Master Yen Sid ever talk about Oswald?"

Mickey shrugged. "No. He only spoke about him once, when he agreed to make me his apprentice. Sometimes, I would ask him to tell me more about about his older apprentices. He always seemed sad when I asked. He would change the subject. I got the feeling that he really cared about Oswald. Maybe what Oswald did was reckless, but I can understand it. I know we can't destroy the darkness, but I think we're in the same situation now."

"Only it's reversed." Riku ran a hand through his bangs, pushing his hair back away from his face. "Now, we have to remove the excess light." He sat down on the ledge next to Mickey. "I'm going to ask Master Yen Sid if I can go back to Hollow Bastion."

"Why?"

"Well, besides getting the gummi ship back, I want to talk to Luna. If we're going up against Aqua, I need to find a way to overcome the darkness she emits. Every time I face her, she pins me down. So, I need to connect with the light inside me, learn how to channel it."

"I'm sure you can do it," said Mickey.

"Thanks."

"Do you think Luna can teach me about the light too?"

Mickey and Riku turned around. Kairi, Max, Sora, Donald, and Goofy had come over.

Kairi fidgeted with her fingers. "I've done a few holy spells, but almost always on accident, and I can never do it alone. I also don't know how to use light magic the way Queen Minnie does. I want to get stronger too. Plus, I'd like to see how the reconstruction is going."

"And where Kairi goes, I go," Max said.

Mickey stood. "Actually, Max, I'd like to ask a favor."

The young knight stood to attention. "Sir?"

"I want to go back to Disney Castle, to check in with Minnie. Will you come with me?"

"Yes, Majesty."

"What about us?" Donald and Goofy asked.

"Master Yen Sid might have a mission for Sora. So I need you two to stick by him."

"Gee, Your Majesty, we'd do that even if you didn't ask us to," Goofy said.

"I'd be worried if I didn't," Donald grumbled.

"Aw! You guys!"

Sora pulled Donald and Goofy into a hug. While the old dog happily chuckled, Donald struggled for a bit before sighing and letting the hug happen. Riku smiled. By the way Donald's light had brightened, it was clear that he was enjoying the affection much more then he was letting on.

Distant footsteps met Riku's ears, and then he felt the glow of a curious, stubborn, yet loyal light. Oswald stopped behind the group and cleared his throat, catching everyone's attention. Once everyone's eyes were on him, the rabbit's shoulders rose. He scratched the back of his head.

"H-hi. Sorry to interrupt. My name is Oswald. I used to be Master Yen Sid's apprentice." He smacked his forehead. "But you already knew that."

While the rabbit covered his face and groaned over his social blunder, Kairi went up to him and put a hand on his head. After realizing who was standing next to him, Oswald straightened his back and faced the group.

"Master Yen Sid told me about how you all stopped Marluxia for good. So, um, thank you. A-and it's nice to meet all of you." Oswald bowed his head. "I hope I can join your team."

Riku bent down, and gave Mickey a little push. The king stumbled forward. He looked over his shoulder at the rest of the party. Sora, Max, Donald, and Goofy gave him a thumbs up.

Mickey took a deep breath. Facing Oswald, he extended his hand.

"So much of what we accomplished never would have happened if you hadn't helped Kairi in the realm of darkness. She never would have destroyed the heartless machine, she wouldn't have fought Marluxia alongside us, we wouldn't have saved Sora. So, in a way, you played a part in keeping the realm of light safe. I'd say that you're already part of this team."

The little rabbit's ears shot straight up. Slowly, he grasped Mickey's hand, shaking it.

"So, you were the apprentice after me?"

"Yep."

"Did Master Yen Sid make you carry bucketfuls of water up the tower too?"

"Everyday. No matter how strong I got or how many spells I learned."

"That's the master for you. No matter what, we'd always have to do chores."

The two apprentices looked at each other and spoke in a low voice. "There are no short cuts when learning magic."

Mickey and Oswald laughed.

Now that the awkward spell was broken, Sora bounded forward so fast that Oswald and Mickey had to jump back a step.

"Is it true that you're a master mage?" he asked.

"I've learned everything Master Yen Sid has to teach," Oswald replied.

"Hey Donald, you and Oswald should have a match. Your magic against his."

Donald stomped his foot. "Why would I do that?"

"I think it would be cool."

"Why don't you just challenge me yourself?" Oswald crossed his arms, confidence radiating in his aura. "I think I could give you a run for your munny."

"That's a great idea. I'll back you up," said Kairi. "In fact, let's make it three on three. Me, Oswald, and Max versus Sora, Donald, and Goofy. We'll wipe the floor with you."

"Now I don't think that's such a good idea."

Goofy's kind words were drowned out as Sora and Donald yelled, "You're on!"

Max sighed. "Here we go again. They're so competitive."

Riku chuckled. "What, and you're not? You know, I've been meaning to test my skills against a dual wielder."

"Name the time and place, dark boy."

"I rest my case."

After a round of harmless trash talk, and a few promises to meet at sunrise to settle their "differences," the group returned to Master Yen Sid's room. When the meeting started, Sora came forward and handed Master Yen Sid the letter that Queen Minnie had written. The master's face darkened when he read the news.

"Kairi," he began.

The girl stood straight.

"I am well aware that you can defend yourself, but two princesses of heart have already gone missing. It would be wise to add another person to your team."

Oswald's light shined. He stepped closer to Kairi.

"Are you certain that's what you want?" the master asked. "You have not completely recovered yet."

"I can't stay in bed with so much going on. I want to help." Oswald looked at the floor. "So, would you take care of Ortensia until I come back?"

The master nodded. "Very well. As for everyone else, I assume you also have requests."

After hearing everyone's queries, master agreed to let the team return to Hollow Bastion. However, he asked that Riku and Kairi not dawdle too long with Lunafreya, and to search for and protect the princesses of heart, once their training was complete. He also requested that Max and Mickey investigate Belle's disappearance when they go to Disney Castle. When it came to Sora, Donald, and Goofy, the master held up his hand. There was a small puff of air, and then there was a gummi piece floating above the master's palm.

"Have Cid instal this on your ship. After you've regained mobility, fly to the coordinates on this Navi-G piece."

Goofy reached forward, taking the gummi block and putting it into his pocket. "Where does this gummi piece lead, Master?"

"While everyone has been gone, Merlin and I have been tracking the influxes of light. There is no distinct pattern. However, as the light increases, a world attaches itself to another. So far, nothing has crashed into Twilight Town, yet there is a world close by. I ask that you three," he waved a hand at Sora, Donald, and Goofy, "go and investigate."

"Yes sir," said the trio.

Master Yen Sid stood. "All of you must gird yourselves. As we've seen, the increase in light has caused chaos and allowed more potent darkness to escape into our world. Too much light can be just as tempting as darkness. Do not let your guard down in its presence."

A chorus of determined voices chanted, "Right."

"Good." Master Yen Sid raised his hands. The sparkling warmth of magic radiated from his palms. "Safe travels, my friends."

The magic enveloped everyone in the room. There was a flash. When it faded, Master Yen Sid was alone once more.