Chapter 10 Mark of Mastery

Kairi's POV

The Next Day

I stood in front of Master Aqua, outside of the castle.

"Kairi", she started. "Today you will be tested to see if you are worthy of receiving the title of Keyblade master."

I just continued to stand as Master Aqua continued to speak, and when she did…she said something that took me by surprise.

"The test I have prepared for you…will be one in which you must face your past."

Upon hearing these words, I was left in confusion.

Master Aqua did not say anything to clear up this confusion. Instead…she turned around to face the castle.

Then…she summoned her Keyblade…and shot a beam of light at the castle!

Said light engulfed the entire area.

When the light disappeared…I gasped in surprise.

The entire area had taken on a new appearance!

"That's…", Elrena started.

"…Castle Oblivion", Lauriam finished.

"That's right", I started in realisation. "Master Aqua once used her powers to turn the castle into a place where Ven would be safe while he slept. Amazing. Master Aqua truly is amazing."

After I said this…Master Aqua turned to look at me.

"Kairi", she started. "The rooms of this castle are made up of your memories. For your Mark of Mastery exam, you shall go through these memories."

"But", I started. "Why Master Aqua?"

"Because", Master Aqua started. "I believe that something is holding you back from your true potential, and this something is doubt."

"Doubt", I asked.

"Yes", Master Aqua replied. "Doubt in yourself. Doubt that I believe has stemmed from your past experiences."

Upon hearing these words…I began to think.

Is it true? Is my self doubt holding me back from my true potential?

"That is why I want you to go through the castle", Master Aqua revealed, snapping me out of my thoughts. "I believe that, if you face your past head on, you will be able to overcome your self doubt, and reach your full potential."

Upon hearing these words…I was filled with newfound determination.

"I promise Master Aqua", I started. "I will not let the training you have given me go to waste. I will make you proud to call me your student!"

"I know you will", Master Aqua reassured.

Then…she put her hands on my shoulders…before pulling me into a hug.

"Good luck, Kairi", she said. "May your heart be your guiding key."

After Master Aqua said this, I broke free of her hug before turning around to face everybody else.

"Good luck, Kairi", Ven said. "You're going to nail this exam! I know you will!"

"Thank you Ven", I said.

"Be careful while you are in the castle", Lauriam warned.

"Yeah", Elrena agreed. "Who knows what old wounds it decides to open?"

"That's okay", I stated. "Whatever it throws at me, I can take it!"

"Are you sure", Lauriam asked.

"Yes", I replied. "I have to if I want to see Sora again."