One Shot Story
"Are you sure about this? Him? Our last hope to defeat Nightmare once and for all?"
"Yes, I am sure. There is no doubt that he is a Star Warrior possessing a rare powerful ability."
"But, he is still so young. He can barely talk. How is he our only way to stop this war?"
"A species like him? I'll bet he can."
"HOW CAN YOU BE SO SURE?!"
"Shut it! They might hear us."
"They? Huh?! Wait? That boy besides him? Could it be?"
"Yes, I also believe that he might be a mirrored version of him."
"But how? He shouldn't be here. Could it be that he ran away from the Mirror World?"
"Even if he did run away or there is another explanation, that's not our priority right now. Our priority is that we have to bring the Star Warrior to our base. RIGHT NOW!"
"Yes, I suppose."
BROTER, POYO!
"Huh? Brother?"
"Let's go, now!"
"But he said brother? W-wait?!"
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Leaves, debris, and many others were blown away on a cloudy afternoon. In a lifeless, cold and silent unknown planet, there was a town located in the countryside. The town was in a state of nearly abandoned where buildings were left to rot and only fewer residents walked around. As nothing much alive happens in this certain land, a voice was heard coming from a meadow not too far from the town. A sound of happiness fills the silence.
A pink rounded infant was running around the meadow, giggling as he tried to catch a yellow butterfly that was flying gracefully above him.
"Hehehe! Lil Sadow! Poyo! A buddarfli!" exclaimed him to a similar yet grey puffball named Shadow. The butterfly slowly landed on the little brother's head and screamed out of fear. "Ahh! Kaabii! Huwaah!"
Seeing his little twin dislike an insect on him, the pink puffball named Kirby immediately shooed the butterfly. "Buddarfli pli awi now," comforted his brother as he gave him an adorable smile.
Shadow blinked his tears away as he looked at his twin. He smiled back at him. "Tank yuu! Broter, poyo! Hehehe!"
They could stare at each other for hours despite where they live. Being together ever since they were born, they will always rely on each other. It was enough for them to have a happy life. But will it always be like that?
Suddenly, the wind had picked up, startling the twins. A fog slowly covered the meadow blurring their eyesight. Feeling frantic, Shadow calls out to his brother trying to find him but soon hears a scream. He turned his head to the source of the scream and saw Kirby was carried away by a dark figure.
"Now! Take him to the base!"
"Y-yes, sir!"
"WAAH! SADOW!"
Shadow tried to follow his brother but unfortunately he was held back by another figure. He struggles to let loose as he cries out to his brother but he could see Kirby slowly fading away through the fog. The loss of him was devastating, fear of now losing him was a tragedy he never thought of at such a young age. He wails in despair, not realising the figure who was still with him.
The figure slowly tightens Shadow's body and mutters something he has never heard before, "Now, it's time for you to go back to where you're come from, Mirrored one."
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"WAAH!" sprung Shadow from his bed. He clutched his chest as he tried to calm his nerves down. A light headache was felt as the blood hadn't fully flow through his head.
Recalling what just happened had made the 10 years old Shadow Kirby to sighed. "Poyo. That memory again."
A gush of memories filled his mind again, remembering the tragedy of his twin disappearing in front of him and how he got stuck in the Mirror World. It had shaken the poor child.
"Poyo poyo! I've tried many times to forget it but it won't leave, poyo!" clutching his head as he screeched in pain. "Why, poyo?! Why do they have to separate us, poy?! What do they want with Kirby?! And I'm stuck here just because I look like a mirrored version of him!"
It's been 7 years since the separation of the twins. After the scene where Kirby was kidnapped, Shadow was thrown away to the Mirror World without any care of the child's condition. Soon after, he realised the Mirror World was a place high in the sky where any object or life from the outside world can be reflected either, it will be good or bad. The reason why he was here was because of the similar traits of any Mirror World people would have and also it was obviously seen as a counterpart of Kirby. He did wonder something, since he wasn't the mirrored image, where could their mirrored version be?
He slowly wiped his tears off, as he knew nothing would change if he cried. He shuffled himself to the right and landed his dark grey feet to the floor. He turned to an alarm clock reading, 6.10am, 20 minutes before his daily routine began. He turned again to a window beside his bed and saw the sun was about to rise. He figured he might as well start his patrol in the Carrot Castle area.
Patrolling. Lot's of things have happened since he was stuck in the Mirror World. It was when he was 6 years old, while Nightmare was still a threat to the whole universe, a sinister presence had invaded this beautiful yet strange land known as Dark Mind. He had corrupted the world by his evil, in order to conquer it. He did not only corrupt the land but also the mirrored residents.
Since Shadow was not originally from here, he was the only person who was not in control of Dark Mind. An urge of responsibility to save this world, he had started his journey. He never really thought of becoming a hero but somewhere deep in his heart he was meant to help, despite he never wanted to be here. By the help of the legendary sword yet mirrored Galaxia, he manages to defeat the villain. He was then rewarded as the guardian of the Mirror World.
Today's weather was slightly chilly as it was during an early autumn and many trees have started to change coloured. Somewhere in the Carrot forest, there was a small opening area. It received a soft dim sunlight, hence, it was still early. The wind was blowing through the forest, carrying colourful leaves as it seemed like it was dancing in the air. Under a pine tree, Shadow was sitting on a wooden swing, slowly swinging back and forth. He had finished his patrol and he was resting. However, the event of this morning was still clinging on in his mind.
"Poyo. Kirby. Where are you right now? I feel so empty, poy. I've lost a part of me. I've lost you, poy. I wanna find you! I want us to be together again, poy! I'm so lonely!" bawled Shadow out of his lungs.
"You are never alone, Shadow."
"Poyo!" He immediately turned around and saw Dark Meta Knight slowly appeared from the dark section of the forest.
Dark Meta Knight, the counterpart of The Lone Swordsman, Meta Knight. Mostly you might think he is the evil version of Meta Knight, but actually he is rather similar, only his personality is more to the harsh side.
Besides he was the first who found Shadow Kirby.
Back in time where the Mirror World was a rather uneventful place, in the far outskirts of Rainbow Route, where a snowy mountain was located called Peppermint Mountain. It was during a snowstorm and Dark Meta Knight was sheltering inside a cave. Due to an occasion before this, it was unfortunate to be stuck in there.
After hours of waiting, he suddenly heard a faint crying noise. Annoyed when he had to get himself cold to find the source,hence, he decided to ignore it. But the noise kept bothering him. He started debating whether to search or not when he realised the crying was getting louder. Grunting to himself as he finally walked out from the cave.
He soon after found a small form lying out in the clearing, crying out of fear. As he approached it more closely, he was flabbergasted to see a puffball just like him. Not only that, he noticed that it was a toddler. Seeing the child in tremble, he carefully placed his mantle on him. The small version of him seemed to notice the pleasant heat wrapped around his body as he slowly looked up and faced Dark Meta Knight, showing his watery eyes. That glistening red eyes that the puffball had, it mesmerised him, almost forgetting that he was in a snowstorm.
But he quickly shook his head, focusing back on what he was doing right now. He slowly dusted off the snow around the baby's face, inspecting for wounds or bruises. Relieving that the infant was not seriously injured, he wondered how he ended up in the middle of the mountain.
"How do you get here, child? Who are you?" wondered Dark Meta Knight.
"Uhh, p-poyo. Sa-sadow. Sadow K-kaabii."
"Mentor, poyo. Why are you here?" questioned Shadow. Dark Meta Knight stared at his student as he sensed something troubling him.
"No reason. You are usually at Central Circle right now, sitting down on one of the platforms, guarding the mirror portals. But since I did not find you, I might as well try to find you here."
"Oh, poyo."
"Not wanting to intervene about your past but as I observed you just now, I assume you might need an assist, Shadow Kirby."
Shadow just blink at him before staring down to his feet. "Poyo. I-I just want to find him."
"Him? The person who has the same appearance as you, right?"
"Poyo. My twin." The sound of chirping birds was the only sound they heard, as they did not say anything. Hearing the word from Shadow, it had silenced the swordsman. He somehow reminded him of his counterpart a long time ago. Seeing his student was grieving, he walked beside him and placed his hand on the child's head.
"Poyo?" flinched Shadow, turning his head to him.
"I sympathise with your loss, Shadow," uttered his mentor as he stared at the clear sky above them. He then turned back to him. "So do you wish to leave here?"
"You do know, I'm stuck here, Mentor, poyo. Even if I want to, poyo, how do I even pass through the mirror portal, poyo? There's a restriction that prevents any mirrored residents from leaving and entering anytime they want, poyo. Also, there's a shield barrier that restrains any enemy, poyo. We created this after the defeat of Dark Mind, poy."
"Is it?"
"Poyo?"
"You are not from here, Shadow. It is possible to pass through the portal. Also, you are not the enemy here."
"Poy." This silent Shadow. "But then, I don't know where he is right now, poyo."
"I see. This twin of yours. May I know more about him?"
Shadow was staring back to his feet, wiggling it as he tried to remember back. "I don't really know much about him, poyo. We were so young back then, poy. In terms of appearance, it obviously looked like me but instead his skin colour was pink and his feet were rosy red, poyo. He also has these magnificent blue eyes, resembling a starry night, poy."
"Poyo! I remembered one thing about him!" squealed Shadow as he shot up back to his mentor. "He really likes to eat, poyo. Hehehe. It does bring back memories but I rather not think about it."
After he finished describing all of the information he knew about his twin, Dark Meta Knight did not respond. This confused him. "Mentor, poyo? Something wrong, poy?"
"How about his name?"
"Poyo! I forgot to tell you that, poy. Well, I got my name because of him. I think my parents look at me as a shadow, a shadow not wanting to leave its owner, poyo. His name was Kirby, poyo."
"So that is his name." Suddenly, Shadow felt mad by that statement. "Poyo? So you know him and you didn't bother to tell me?!"
"Calm down, Shadow. I never said I knew him."
Shadow's face went red, ashamed of his act. "Poyo. I am so sorry, Mentor, poyo. I still need to control my anger more, poy."
"Indeed you do, Shadow."
Anger issues, something Shadow had picked up during his stay in this world. Although he looked like an innocent, polite child just like his twin, when he could not hold back his wrath, he could hurt someone he knew. Other than that, he also developed some mixed personalities. It will explain further.
"So, why did you mean just now, poyo?" anticipated Shadow.
"Long ago before the presence of Dark Mind, there was a long-rage war happening outside this peaceful world. A war between the Galaxy Soldier Army and the Demon Beasts. These demons were created by their leader, Nightmare. He had created a company named, Nightmare Enterprise, where foolish customers are willing to purchase without any idea what the company intends to do. Whereas the Galaxy Soldier Army (GSA) were a group of Star Warriors sacrificing themselves to defeat the enemy. However, as the amount of demons overbound the GSA, many of them had perished. One of the survivors was my own counterpart, Meta Knight."
Shadow was stunned by the story, now sitting on the ground listening carefully to what his mentor was narrating.
"Then after years of fighting, a new Star Warrior was born, possessing a rare power, copy ability."
"Copy ability? Like me, poy?" surprised Shadow.
"Yes, just like you. Finally, Nightmare was defeated, with the help of this very young Star Warrior. A child, with beautiful starry eyes, pink skin and red feet, also with a big appetite."
"Poyo! Kirby!"
"Yes, Shadow. That Star Warrior is your twin. I did not think you were his twin. When I first saw you with the same ability, I thought it was just a coincidence. But after you describe his traits, it is certain, he is your twin."
"Poyo. So, that's why they took him," murmured Shadow.
"Pardon, Shadow. Who took him?"
"I don't know, poy. The reason why Kirby and I were separated was because someone had kidnapped Kirby. There were two of them, but the other was the reason why I am here, poyo. Listening to your story, it makes sense now why they took him, poy. He is a Star Warrior!"
"Would it be a coincidence too if you are also a Star Warrior?" spoke Dark Meta Knight, jolting Shadow.
"P-poyo? N-no way, poy! I'm no Star Warrior, poyo. I'm just a kid with a rare ability and some mixed personalities, poyo. There's no way I could be like him, poy. I never thought he was a Star Warrior. He must be very brave, poyo." The mentor could only stare at his student, not wanting to retrot what his student had said.
"Would it be alright if I met him, poy?"
Dark Meta Knight was startled by the question. "Why would you say that?"
"Because of his condition right now, poyo. He must be very busy training. I wouldn't want to bother him, poy."
This is another personality Shadow had besides anger. A feeling of being afraid to be a burden to people. It was something he had when he was living with his mentor, weeks after he was stuck here. Back then he was weak, he always got teased due his rare ability, he was always saved by his mentor. Hence, he began to train. This is also the reason why he had no friends besides his mentor and Shadow Dedede.
"But what if he was searching for you too. Would you rather follow your selfish act or be brave? Besides, you are longing to meet him, right?"
Shadow bite his lips, dilemma if he wants to find him or not.
"I would gladly cover for your absence when you are off to find him."
"But how about Mirror World, poyo? I couldn't let you guard yourself, poy?"
"After what you did for me and to Mirror World, this might be my gratitude for you," bowed Dark Meta Knight.
Shadow frantically waving his hands, shocked by his mentor's act. "Poyo?! Mentor. Don't do that! That's so not you, poyo! I'm just doing what I can do since I'm the only person who is not corrupted."
During the dark time, all mirrored residents were under control, destroying the peace of the world. As Shadow on his way to battle the foe, he had to face his own mentor. After Dark Meta Knight was saved, seeing his student bawling in relief that he was alright had made him grateful to have him by his side, despite not showing his feelings to him.
"So, how would it be?" spoke Dark Meta Knight, eager to know the child's answer.
"P-poyo. But I still don't know where he is, poyo."
"Simple. He lives below us, a beautiful country called Dreamland."
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At the Central Circle, standing in front of the mirror portal, opening onto the other world, Shadow was ready to leave with his warp star. He faced his mentor for one more time before he left.
"Are you sure you'll be fine guarding the Mirror World without me, Mentor, poyo?" hesitated the child. Dark Meta Knight just rolled his eyes. "You doubt me for not being able to defend Mirror World? As you know I am much more reliable and experienced when dealing with a battle, whereas, you only save the world once."
Shadow gave him a faint frown. "I'm just nervous about leaving here, poyo. If something happens, I don't know if I can come back just in time, poyo."
"Why do you even care about this world? You are not from here. Besides, ehem, I-I'll be alright," blushed the mentor. This brightens Shadow a bit. "Hehe. I know, you'll be alright, Mentor, poyo. It's just, I know I'm not from here, but, this is where I grew up. Although some people don't accept me here, I'm glad that this is my home. I don't want to risk it."
"Do not worry much, Shadow. Children such as you should not be thinking about this. You should be enjoying your childhood as much as you can. Try not to act too much as a hero, sometimes, weighing so many responsibilities is dreadful."
"I understood, poyo. Sigh. I'll best be going now, poy. Wish me luck," said Shadow as he climbed on his warp star. Slowly approaching the portal, he waved to his mentor and left.
"Best of luck, Shadow Kirby, twin to Kirby of the Stars."
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The journey to Dreamland was rather easy. Not many obstacles blocking his direction, just some strong wind currents, preventing the child from advancing in a straight line. Also, it was a cold sunny day, something he wishes it to be warm during this autumn.
After quite some time, he began to wonder if he had arrived at his destination. Afraid of getting lost, he decided to land on a fine grassland near a thick forest. For the first time, he had stepped his feet to this land. Finally, he was out of Mirror World, something he thought was impossible as he always thought that he would be stuck there forever. He carefully observed his surroundings.
The area was breathtaking. In front of him was a lake showing its glimmering water. The way the colorful trees were bristled, the fleecy clouds, it was out of ordinary from where he lives. Right now, he is in Green Greens, the heart of Dreamland.
"Poyo. So, this is Dreamland. How amazing this place is, poy. I hope I can easily find him here, poyo. I can tell that this place is huge, poy."
Suddenly, a soft laughter was heard, coming across the lake. Across there were hills, scattering all round the grassland, giving another spectacular view of this land. Shadow then discovered something, a sparkle faintly peeking on one of the hills. Somehow that light intrigues him to come to take a closer look. He wasn't sure why but what would be a way to know this place by checking it out.
So without further ado, he breathed in some air allowing himself to blow up like a floating balloon and he flapped his stubby paws as he went across the lake. After he made it, he let the air out and ran off to the light.
As he got nearer, the laughter was getting louder and he realised it was the children's laughter. He found twin trees near that hill and he decided to hide himself from them. Besides, he was an outsider. He did not want to give any attention to them.
As it was on time, a ball was coming in his direction, landing to where he was hiding.
"I got it!" yelled a Waddle Dee with a bandana appeared from the hill as he came to get the ball.
Poyo, a Dreamlander's Waddle Dee. They look a bit different from the ones back home, poy. And he has a bandana. He has style I guess.
"Poyo! Got the ball, Bandy?" shouted a familiar accent. Shadow immediately looked to the person on the top of the hill, a pink puffball.
He yelped unconsciously. "Poy! Kirby?!" This triggered the waddle dee. Shadow panickingly covered his mouth as he tried to hide behind the trees, shakenly.
The Waddle Dee was still staring at his direction, thinking if the fellow heard something. But before he was about to find out, the pink puffball called out to him again. The Waddle Dee named Bandy quickly brushed it off and climbed up the hill.
"Sorry about that, Kirby. I heard something just now. But it must be nothing," apologized Bandana Dee.
"Poyo! That's okay, poyo! Let's go!" replied Kirby, ready to go back and play.
Poyo, Kirby. It's really you.
"Poyo?" startled Kirby as he turned his head back towards where Shadow is.
"Kirby? Are you okay?"
"P-poy. Yeah. I'm okay," answered him, still not moving.
"You know, Kirby. You've been acting strange these days. Something wrong?"
"Poyo? What do you mean?"
"You keep spacing out from time to time. Is there something on your mind?"
"Not really, poy. It's just I feel somehow empty in me, poyo. I don't know why."
"Maybe you're always hungry?"
"Hahaha, poyo. Let's just continue our game, poy. The others must be waiting, poyo!"
"Sure! Let's go!"
Kirby and Bandana Dee finally walked away, leaving Shadow to cry in happiness.
K-Kirby! P-poyo! I-I've finally found you, poy! After all those years, I finally get to meet you again!
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It was now afternoon and Shadow was still behind the twin trees. He was finally able to find his long lost twin and it was quite a bit too sudden that he did not get the chance to plan out how he was going to meet him.
He slowly walked out from his hiding and carefully climbed on the hill. On top was a whole new place. A beautiful large meadow can be seen. The grass swayed side to side. The leaves rustled in the wind as some of them were dancing away in the company with dandelions. Shadow could not stop staring.
Then, somewhere ahead there were children playing soccer on a cutted field.
"Hey! That's cheating! You're not supposed to play soccer with your hands!" argued a jester with a big pair of brown shoes and a twin hat with multiple colors.
This annoyed a blue cat alien alike. "Well, excuse me! I don't have legs, remember?! How am I supposed to kick the ball?"
"Well, at least I have mine. I can play this game anytime I like! Besides, I love balls!"
"Speaking of not having a proper body part. You don't have hands. How do you even eat?"
"Why is that bothering you while we play?"
"Because you started it first complaining that I don't have legs!"
Their bickering had now begun.
"Poyo! Marx! Magolor! Stop fighting!" yelled Kirby. This immediately led Shadow to go on hiding in a nearby tree. He saw Kirby and the Waddle Dee as they walked closer to their arguing friends.
"I think it's a bad idea for us to play soccer," regretted Waddle Dee.
"Poyo. I guess you're right, poy," agreed Kirby as he walked through the meadow.
"Kirby? What are you doing?"
"I sense something, poyo."
"Sense? Is it bad?"
"No, poyo. Something I never felt a long time ago, poy."
"Really? What is it?"
"I-I don't know, poyo." Kirby slowly approached the tree where Shadow was hiding. Panicking again, Shadow covered his mouth to prevent any sound.
As Kirby almost got closer, he gave a loud scream, panicking Bandana Dee as he quickly ran to his friend. Marx and Magolor soon stopped their argument as they heard Kirby.
"Kirby! Are you okay?!" worried Bandana Dee.
"Poyo! Poyo! Poyo! Get it off me! Get it off me! Poyo!" freaked Kirby as he frantically shook his hand. There was a caterpillar happily sitting on his hand.
Hehe, poyo. Aww...he's still afraid of caterpillars, poy. It brings back memories.
The Waddle Dee just shook his head, sweatdropped that it was nothing to be alarmed. He swiftly fling away the caterpillar.
"Alright then. I think that's enough. It's almost time for our picnic now." suggest Bandana Dee. The word picnic cheered Kirby up.
"Poyo! Picnic time! And Daddy Meta and Dedede are waiting for us!" He quickly ran away leaving his friends behind.
"Hey! Wait up!" Bandana Dee, Marx and Magolor quickly chased their starving friend, pursued with Shadow.
Daddy Meta? Did he mean Meta Knight? Counterpart of Mentor? I can't wait to see him! What a coincidence!
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As Shadow followed them, he came across a castle, located on a hill. At the outside of the castle, he saw two adults sitting on a picnic blanket, waiting for the children to come.
As it was his luck, he saw another nearby tree and began hiding again. He then looked closely at the two adults, realising something familiar about them. One was a penguin, boredly waiting. He was trying to seek a muffin into his mouth, but his partner snatched the muffin first before it was shifted to the penguin's mouth. Whereas the partner was kind of similar to Shadow's mentor.
No way! It's them! Meta Knight! And that must be Shadow Dedede's counterpart! He's personality is truly 180° different.
He then saw Kirby cheerfully running towards Meta Knight. The eavesdropping had started again.
"Daddy Meta! Poyo!" cheered Kirby as he ran towards his adopted father. Hearing the child's cheery voice, The Lone Swordsman spread his arms ready for a big hug. His eyes changed color from yellow to now pink.
It wasn't usually like this, Kirby always ambushed him with a hug when they met but now, the father just embraces it.
"I assumed you all finished playing?" guess Meta Knight to the others as he patted his son's head.
"We did!" answered Marx and Magolor at the same time.
"Hello, my King. How are you this afternoon?" questioned Bandana Dee to King Dedede. The penguin answered as he also began patting his loyal servant, "Eh. It ain't bad. Jus' hungry waitin' for you guys."
"Well, we are here now, King Dedede."
After the father stopped patting, Kirby saw the picnic blanket full of food. "Poyo!" He immediately sat down and chomped down on a carrot cake.
"Hey! Leave some for me you dingus!" furious the penguin as he dug in too.
"Left some for us too, you guys!"
Seeing them happily enjoying their food together, he leaned his back to the tree, taking a break as he realised something.
K-kirby, poyo. You look so happy with them, poy. I've realised how completely different our world is, poy. What would happen if I suddenly showed up to you guys, poy? Would they think differently about me? Would I bother them, poyo? Do I really have to do this? But then at least I know, he's doing fine. What should I do, poy?
Meta Knight had just finished his autumn theme parfait and was staring at the beautiful landscape until he noticed something making his eyes turn bright green.
"We've been watched by someone." Everyone let out a gasp, surprised by the statement, except for Kirby, who did not bother to listen. It also startled Shadow who didn't realise he had let his guard down.
Poyo! They found out! What should I do, poy?!
"Guess, we should be more careful, huh?" uttered Bandana Dee as he figured it might be something he heard from the hill or what Kirby felt at the meadow and now it had followed them here.
Meta Knight nodded yes and he pointed to the tree, telling them that there was a grey coloured flesh, peeking behind it. Wielding his weapon, he stood in front of the group, ready to defend.
"Show yourself!" commanded him to Shadow.
Poyo! I-I guess I have no c-choice.
Feeling defeated, he slowly walked out from the tree, closing his eyes. He was afraid what their reaction would be but then he did expect them to gasp, which was true. Why would they not, he was literally just like their friend but grey. By the way, Kirby was still busy eating.
Marx was the first to speak. "Ahhh! It's a faker, Kirby!" Followed by Magolor. "Kirby! There's a puffball that looks just like you!"
Well, that's one way to describe me.
Finally, it triggered Kirby. With thrilled he hurriedly ran towards him, shocking Shadow with a yelp. "Poyo!"
"Wow, even his accent is the same, " amazed Marx.
Jumping up and down, Kirby gave the guest a big adorable smile at him, excited to meet another species like him and Meta Knight. However, Shadow couldn't help but to avoid him. He was too shy, no he was terrified.
"Poyo! What's your name, poy?" asked his twin as he cricling around him, examined him closely. Shadow gave him a confused look, taken aback by the question.
"Poyo? M-my name? Um, my name-" He was about to give his full name, but his instinct decided to hide it. He thought it might be for the best not to tell for now.
"-is Shadow."
"Shadow, poyo?" repeated Kirby. The name was a bit familiar to him.
"Hey! Don't leave us hanging!" called Marx suddenly behind them. They were still standing there staring at them.
"Hehehe. Poyo! Our new friend's name is Shadow!" responded Kirby, raising his stubby hands to the air like he had won something.
Friend, poy?
Kirby then took note that his new friend looked a bit disappointed on what's happening. He tilted his head confused. "Poyo? Is there something wrong, poy?"
Shadow murmured something, still did not look into his eyes. "Don't you think we have met before, poyo?"
"Poyo? Uh, sorry, poyo. I don't think so."
It sadden the grey puffball more. Sensing his emotion, Kirby felt guilty. He did not mean to upset him. He hates hurting people feelings especially, if it was a newcomer. Besides, it will ruin the Dreamlanders reputation for being friendly. He looked around to see if there's something to help cheer him up and he remembered their picnic. It gave him an idea.
"Poyo! Wanna join us for a picnic?" The offer was unexpected for Shadow. "Poyo?!"
Whereas the others were also speechless. Why would Kirby want him to join them? It could not be just because he was a puffball too. This questioned Magolor to Kirby.
"Because he's our guest and friend, poy! We never seen him before so he must be new here! Besides, we wouldn't want to be rude to our new neighbour, poyo!"
Poyo?! Neighbour, poy?! I wasn't planning to move here!
Shadow stepped backward trying to run away. "N-no. That's okay, poy. I don't want to disturb your picnic." But as soon as he was about to, Kirby held his hand.
"P-poyo!"
"Come on, poy! Aren't you hungry?"
But before he was about to retort again, his belly was grumbling at the wrong time.
"Hehehe. Poyo! See? You are hungry!"
Shadow couldn't deny it anymore, feeling so overwhelmed, he stood there frozen. Eyes staring to the ground and red blush starting to appear instead of his normal grey cheeks-blush.
Meta Knight noticed that the child was under a lot of pressure.
Since Shadow is always alone in the Mirror World, he had a bad experience with people, he had never encountered this situation so being the center of attention was nerve-wracking.
"Hey, is tha' kid doin' alrigh'?" whispered King Dedede to Meta Knight. Looks like he noticed it too.
"He is not used to this kind of situation. I assumed he is a silent type."
"Welp, he gotta get used to tha' if he wants to live here."
Meta Knight just nodded at him, agreed.
"I have to say somethin' , he jus' like you when you first came here."
"Haha, very funny."
Forcefully, Kirby tugged him to the picnic area and allowed him to sit down next to him. He took something from the picnic basket which was a slice of apple pie.
"Poyo! Here! Take it, poy!" Still feeling uncomfortable, Shadow awkwardly received the pie.
Since there's nothing the others can do to stop their friend from making friends with the new kid, they just decided to accept and continue the picnic party. Throughout the time, they introduced themselves to the newbie as they tried to make him comfortable.
Whereas, Shadow, it was the first time he experienced hanging out with people. He always got rejected and left alone. It was different when he was with Dark Meta Knight. It was mostly training and guarding and from the Dark Meta Knight point of view, he was just babysitting since he was Shadow's guardian. Hence, Shadow doesn't really have play time.
While they minding their own business, a dim green light from Meta Knight's eyes was flickering as he kept staring at Shadow. The looks, the size, the accent, it was all too similar, he thought. Although the colour skin and eyes were different he was still amazed by the exact traits they have. Could it not be a coincidence, he wondered. If it were comparing between Kirby and him. The only big difference that differentiate them was the body size, wings and hands. It was so suspicious to him and somehow familiar. He remembered something a long time ago. Something so similar to what he sees now. But he couldn't quite put his finger on it. Hence, he decided to not say anything first as he had no evidence and will try to recall it later.
After some time, the picnic party was over and they all had walked home, leaving Meta Knight, Kirby and Shadow. The pink puffball was happily holding his father's hand before they went different paths. However, Shadow Kirby did not budge from his place as he watched the father and son leaving together.
Kirby and Sir Meta Knight. Father and son. What does make me then, poy? I don't get it, poy. I'm a friend? Well, I supposed I have to go then. I do need to find a place to sleep in for-
"Poyo, Shadow?"
Poyo?
Shadow blinked his eyes as he saw Kirby was in front of him.
"K-Kirby? Aren't you and sir Meta Knight going home just now, poy?" wondered him as he peeked behind Kirby was the father.
"Poy, we were. But I saw you didn't move, poy. You do have a home, right?" replied Kirby.
Shadow shook his head. "I just got here today, poy."
"Poyo. Well, you can stay at my house for a while. Meta Knight will not join us of course, poy. He lives somewhere else, " offered Kirby again. Shadow just frantically waved his hands no. After he got offered to join him for a picnic, there was no way he had to accept it again.
"P-poyo, no. I don't want to burden you more."
"Hey, it's okay, poy. Besides, where do you suppose to sleep when it's getting chilly this autumn, poy?"
He was about to decline again but seeing his twin forming a warm lovable smile he just couldn't. His twin really cared about him. "I-I supposed, poy."
With that, he quietly followed them home. Throughout the walk, he noticed Meta Knight had kept eyeing him but he was too tired to do something so he just ignored it.
I guess he can sense something from me, poy. Wonder what it is.
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The twins finally arrived at the older twin house. By looking at the exterior of the house, it was almost similar to Shadow's house back at home.
How fortunate that we have the same house. Well, that's what I get from living in a reflection world.
The pink puffball opened his house and invited his guest to walk in first. The guest look around the room. He saw the living room and the bedroom had been fuse together due to the house is very small. Except for the kitchen where it was separated by a wall.
"Hehehe, poyo. Sorry about having the living room also as the bedroom, poy. But hey its still spacious, poyo!" spoke Kirby, looking at the bright side. It was quite true where between the television and the bedroom, the space was about 9 feet.
"No, poy. I don't mind. You invited me. I would not be rude about someone's house, poy."
"Hehe! Poyo! Please, make yourself at home!"
Around 9.30 evening, it was quiet in Kirby's house not because they were asleep but they were doing their things. Kirby was in the kitchen probably still hungry, whereas Shadow was sitting on the floor yet leaning on his twin's bed. He was watching the television. Or is he?
He was actually just staring down at the yellow star-shaped mat, thinking about the whole event this afternoon.
Friend. Why, poyo? Doesn't he recognise me? Never met, poy? But how? How could he possibly forget about me, poyo? I look like him. What so different about it? I haven't changed much. Why, poyo? Why?
The more he tried to dig down further to find the answer, the more his heart slowly cracked. The wound before had become deeper as he couldn't reunite with him like he was hoping for. He thought if he had found him, all of his misery would vanish but no, it was all nothing but a fairy tale.
"Poyo. Am I interrupting you, right now?"
Kirby voice just came up of no where, snapping Shadow's thoughts. Looking at the pink puffball, he had walked back from the kitchen bringing a plate full of slices watermelon. Apparently, he was preparing food for his guest.
"Poyo, no. I'm just watching the television, " faking Shadow.
"Well, I brought some food, poy. Might you want to eat before bed?"
Shadow couldn't tell if he was doing this for him or his twin was just hungry and wanted him as a companion.
"I don't mind, poy."
Kirby then sat down in front of him, placing the plate down. He gave a watermelon slice to Shadow before he started to have his own.
"Mmm! Poyo! Ya know, poy! I usholly eat the wotormalon ash a whole, poy! Hehe!" spoke Kirby with his mouth full.
Yeah. I can tell since you ate a lot during the picnic, poy.
But, Shadow didn't bother to respond and just ate his watermelon more slowly. The owner of the house felt a bit offended.
"Poyo? Don't you like me, poy?"
This immediately made Shadow choke on his food. He looked at him in shock. "Poyo?! N-no! I didn't mean like that, poy! I like you, of course, poy!"
You're my twin, how could I not like you, poy.
However, Kirby still not convince. "But you're ignoring me, poy."
"I'm just a bit shy, poy. I don't usually talk much to people in my hometown. I mostly alone, poyo. I only talked to my mentor and his friend."
"Poyo. So, you're uncomfortable. I'm sorry."
"No, poy. It's okay. I'm sorry too since I offended you."
The silence filled the air as they suddenly didn't know what to say. Only the sound of munching was heard. Kirby didn't like this kind of silence. He would always find a way to make the environment more enjoyable. He usually tries to goof around but since his new friend was uncomfortable, he couldn't do that.
Apparently it was the first time he find a friend who had trouble with people. Normally he always came across people who were confident of themselves and some, well traitors. However, Shadow wasn't like that. He can tell by the expression, which was full of uncertainty and somehow he felt a sense of sadness in him. He didn't know why and by the weird feeling he had these days, it had made it more obvious. It made the pink puffball feel pain in his heart.
He glanced at his companion who kept staring on the floor, a face full of mixed emotion. He soon realised that his friend's eyes look a lot like him. Although it was red, it showed a beautiful red like sunset. But due to the owner's feelings, it was quite dull. However, it was still stunning to see for him.
Whereas for Kirby, his blue eyes appear like the night with stars scattering the sky.
"I like the redness of your eyes, poy. It's calming me down, " mentioned Kirby.
Startling the grey puffball, he looked away embarrassed. "P-poyo. I get mentioned a lot when people look at me, poyo."
"So do I, poyo. I have to say being a puffball is something. Hehe. Even Daddy Meta have special eyes. He can express emotions by changing his colour eyes."
"Poy. We really are unique."
"Poyo! Ya know, I never felt anything like this before, poy. When I always with them, I just feel happy and warm. But when I'm with you, I feel somehow so calm, whole and peaceful. It's like something had filled this hole in me. I'm glad you're here," explained Kirby so sincerely. Giving Shadow a warming smile, he managed to make him smile.
"I'm glad I'm here too," replied Shadow.
But does it all matter since he didn't recognize me?
"So where is your hometown, poy?" began Kirby. It's ice breaking time!
"Poyo? I-its far away from here, poy. Have to ride a warp star to go there."
"Wait! Poyo! You have a warp star too? Poyo! I wonder if most puffball species have their own warp star too?"
"I-I don't know, poy."
"So, do you like to eat, poy? Like me? Inhaling any food that I saw?"
Shadow place a paw on his chin, thinking if he eat like his brother. "I poy, don't think so. But if I was starving I might eat a whole piece like the watermelon you've said."
"Hehehe! I knew it! Poyo!" By talking about each other's interests, they gradually became closer and through the night, it was an enjoyable time for the both of them.
"I never knew we have a lot in common, poy! And youre so much fun to talk with! Poyo! I can't wait for my other friends to meet you! You already met Bandy aka Bandana Dee, Marx and Magolor, poy. But that just a few. There are, Susie, Taranza, Gooey and more! Poyo! But then they are all on a vacation but still I can't wait! Poyo!"
Wonder if I should meet them?
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Somewhere in Castle Dedede, at the corner west of it was an apartment, where the loyal servants of the king were located.
"So you're cooking again, Blade?" asked an aqua-coloured swordsman to his brother named Blade Knight.
"What do you think I'm doing, Sword? Reading a book?" annoyed Blade.
"You know, we just ate a couple of hours ago? You're still hungry?"
"No. I'm doing this to sharpen my cooking skills! After I got an approval from Sir Meta Knight and King Dedede about my dish. I am determined to create a new recipe!" hyped Blade as he raised his spatula to the sky! Sword just rolled his eyes, displeased with his brother's statement.
"It's 'our' dish they approved, you dummy. Don't be so sure of yourself. Besides, if it comes to creating awesome dishes, it's me!"
"So, you're challenging me? Bring it on!"
Meta Knight was peeking from his bedroom door, staring lazily to his squires childish act. He slowly closed the door behind him, preventing any disturbance from the brothers.
"They sure are noisy. But it's nice to see them rather than just trained and patrolling. Pursuing their dreams, it is a new step through their journey while protecting people. Maybe protecting by creating healthy food? Could be," murmured him to himself as he took off his armor and took a piece of candy from a shelf.
The taste of the tanginess from the orange flavored candy burst in Meta Knight's mouth, giving him the satisfaction. It almost made him feel relaxed and just wanted to lie down if this one thought hadn't been in his mind.
The thought about the grey puffball. He was still questioning how the child and his adopted son were so identical. He was so sure he had encountered such similarity but with a still blurred memory, he couldn't recall.
"Who are you, mysterious puff?" murmured him again until he look at a mirror in front of him. Finally it all came together, flushing him with memories of that incident. An incident where he first met Dark Meta Knight.
A long time ago, where the Nightmare was still causing havoc in the whole galaxy. Victims were killed, Star Warriors gradually decreasing. It was a dark era for people who live that time. Meta Knight had landed in Dream;and about 2 months ago. Dreamland back then was empty and lifeless. However, the land still has that distinct magical wonders as much as today. There weren't many locals staying there where most of them perished from the war and some also fled.
Meta Knight was hiking on the highest hill in Dreamland. He wasn't taking risk of an enemy seeing him in the middle of nowhere of course. He was on a bit of an adventure after he heard some rumors from the locals.
Somewhere in the clouds was a portal, leading to a world to where the copies of the outside world lives, the Mirror World.
He heard that the world did not suffer from the darkness due the world was known to be hidden from the outside world. But then was it really true? What if it wasn't. What if they need outside help? Meta Knight could not help but to find out.
He spread his bat like wings and flew up through the sky. Soaring through the clouds for at least 30 minutes until he saw a sparkle between the thick clouds. He went through and there it was, the mirror portal.
Slowly landing on the thick heavy cloud, he began approaching it. The portal looked like an ordinary mirror with angel wings as the border. He wasn't sure how to enter the portal without creating any possible alarm but something he didn't expect had happened.
A figure like of Meta Knight appeared in front of him. No, it wasn't a reflection as it was a bit different. The grey coloured, the logo on the right and the scar on the mask. It was Dark Meta Knight. Coincidentally, they both looked in the mirror at the same time, shocking each other.
"It's all make sense now. That young child Shadow is Kirby's mirror copy. How fascinating to see one outside his home."
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Alone, darkness, silence.
Poyo? Where am I, poy? Why is it so dark?
"Now! Take him to the base!"
Poy?
"Y-yes, sir!"
"Huwaah!"
Who's crying, poyo?
"HUWAAH! BROTER KAABI! NO!"
Poyo?!
"Gasp!" exclaimed Kirby as he woke up from his sleep.
"P-poyo. W-what was that, poy?" stuttered him, gasping for air. It was 3 in morning as he check his alarm clock. He then turned his head to the floor beside him. Right there was Shadow, sleeping on a thin mattress facing away from him.
I hope I didn't startle him, poy. What was that dream anyway, poyo? Who's was crying? Why did he call me brother?"
Suddenly a throbbing headache struck him, causing his vision to blur. He immediately lies down again trying to compose himself.
P-poyo. Why is it giving me a headache?
After several minutes, he finally felt a bit better. Not wanting to think that dream again, he tried to go back to sleep but he couldn't. He stared at his friend again. Reminding the wonderful time he had with him in such a short amount of time, a new bond was created between them. Nevertheless, he was also thinking about his friend's expression.
He looked so upset when I said I didn't recognise him. Do we really have met before, poy? When? Why can't I remember it, poy? I feel so sorry for him. I can feel his eagerness that he expected me to remember him, despite all the shyness he had. What bond do we actually have, poy? This empty heart that I don't know why I had was now filled with this bond. Who are you, Shadow? *Silence* Now, I feel that I don't want to lose you.
Kirby. Although the pink puffball was known to be a lovable, friendly and easy going child, there was this emptiness lurking inside him ever since he arrived at Dreamland. At first, it seemed to be doable and didn't seem to affect him during saving the universe and also while playing with others, but as the time comes, it seems the hole has become bigger. He began to keep spacing out mostly to the sky, as he felt something was up there. He never really tried to solve this problem or even tell his friends until now. Not even his adopted father knew about this. He always thought it wouldn't get any worse but boy he was wrong.
It somehow began to affect his behaviour such as wandering alone around Dreamland until he didn't know how he got there. He also sometimes wanted to be alone due to being so immersed with his feelings. Recently, he felt something was missing in his life. It's like a jigsaw puzzle with a missing piece in the middle. Now, he was having a weird dream. A dream he somehow knew yet bitter.
But after the arrival of Shadow, the feelings somehow gradually fainted. He didn't know why but something about his new friend managed to heal him. He felt that he had finally found it without knowing what it was and he never wanted to let it go again. Otherwise, it means he didn't want to lose his new best friend.
Now, there is one thing he wanted to know. Who was the person that called him brother? Could he have had a family before but where?
On the other side of Kirby, Shadow wasn't really sleeping. He was in really deep thoughts that he didn't even realise his twin yelping because of a dream. Lots of thoughts wandering his mind such as obviously the 'why Kirby didn't remember him' but there's one thing that is clinging in his mind right now. How happy his twin is living in Dreamland.
He didn't understand why he was so happy while himself suffering from all these years. Could it be that Kirby did not affect their long past separation, he thought. But why? It hurts him from thinking this. No, he was jealous. What's the point of coming here but his pain still wouldn't go away?
Poyo. Maybe I shouldn't bother coming here in the first place and telling that I'm his twin.
Thinking that if he kept staying here, it might hurt him more or possible that he would trouble Kirby's current life. He always thought to himself that he was bothersome to people which is another reason why he rather be alone.
Maybe I shouldn't tell him, poy.
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The next morning. It was the second day Shadow Kirby was in Dreamland and it already shows so many things happened. Right now, the twins were in the kitchen having breakfast. Since they were still young, they didn't know much how to cook (but they were skilled in battling. What are the odds?) hence they just ate apples that Kirby had picked yesterday and drank some milk. Due to their own problem last night, they were still sleepy and they unexpectedly yawned at the same time.
"Poyo? You didn't get enough sleep too?" asked Kirby surprised by their acts.
"Sort of, poy."
Afraid that it may be because of him, he apologies.
"Poy? What for?"
"Ah, poyo. No, nothing poyo. Nevermind. So you have something on your mind last night, poy. I see." This skeptical Shadow, knowing something really bothers him. But he chose not to ask.
"Poyo! Let's get out and play!"
The sudden excitement from Kirby almost made his drink spill.
"P-poyo? I-" Apparently, he was hoping maybe to go home today since his thoughts last night were still ringing in his mind.
"Poyo? You don't want to, poy?"
However, remembering Kirby got misunderstood by him last night, he quickly decided to put it aside the whole leaving thing. "Nevermind, poy. Sure, since I have nothing to do."
"Poyo!"
I hope making friends is not that hard. I don't think it will end well today.
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"Hey, copycat!" teased Marx. Several minutes later, they were off to play with Bandana Dee, Marx and Magolor and before they were even going to decide what games they should play, Marx abruptly mocked Shadow.
Copycat? First faker, now copycat? I hate him already.
This irritated him a bit but remembering that he had anger issues, he slowly tried to calm down.
"Poyo! That's not nice, Marx!" scolded Kirby, crossing his arms. Shadow placed his hands in front of his twin showing it's alright.
"Yes, Marx, poy?" questioned Shadow.
"Can you do a copy ability like him too? since you're a faker."
Everyone was surprised by the unexpected question. It worsens Shadow's mood now.
"Why would you ask that, Marx? Not all puffballs can do what Kirby did. He's special. That's a rare ability you idiot. Besides, I don't think he can," explained Magolor.
"But what if he can? He look just like Kirby. Why don't we find out?"
Meanwhile, Kirby noticed how annoyed Shadow was. "Are you alright, poy? Did he offend you?"
Shadow turned to his brother, forcing himself to smile. "No. It's alright, poyo. How about we make a bet?" challenged Shadow, now facing back to the others.
"Huh?"
An annoyed smirk appeared across his face, feeling delighted to show that he should not be underestimated.
"If I can do it, poy, do NOT make fun of me anymore. But if I can't do it, poy, I'll do whatever you want for 2 whole days, " explained Shadow, emphasizing the word 'not'.
Kirby on the other hand was shock at his new friend stake. "Poyo! No!"
"A bet huh? Sure. I'll take the challenge, copycat, " agreed Marx.
Meanwhile, Bandana Dee and Magolor just shook their heads, thinking what's the point in doing this.
"Seriously you guys. But then, where do we get the ability? Usually Kirby just suck up the enemy's ability to get it. Besides, we don't even have a weapon or element for the alternative way," wondered Magolor.
Kirby suddenly made a cheeky grin, facing towards Bandana Dee. "We can let Shadow suck Bandy or his weapon, poyoooo~ "
"Ahh! Kirby! How could you?! I don't even have my spear right now!" terrified Bandana Dee.
"Hahaha! Poyo! I'm just kidding! Why would I let him suck you, poy? Hold up! I think there's a way, poy."
He then left the group and ran towards his house. After about 5 minutes, he had arrived back bringing a green coloured star. It was one of the Copy Essences, the Sword Ability.
"Where did you get that?" stunned Magolor.
"From our last mission, poy. A souvenir."
It puzzled everyone of why out of all awesome things, his friend wanted that as a souvenir.
"Poyo, here! Let the bet begin!" cheered Kirby as he tossed the Copy Essences to Shadow.
Shadow easily catched it and a bright light suddenly emerged blinding the others as it engulfed him. As the light disappeared, Shadow was now shown to have a long green hat with a yellow rim and he was holding a sword.
Everyone was truly amazed that Shadow can also do like Kirby. They really did not think that any people could have this ability besides Kirby himself.
Shadow slowly aims the sword tip near Marx's face, making him shriek in fear. His bad mood still hasn't faded yet. "So, I assumed I won, poy? Now STOP TEASING ME you jester!"
"Eek! Alright! Alright! You won! I won't tease you anymore!"
"Shadow, poy! Stop! Don't hurt him, poy!" panicked Kirby. Shadow let out a huff and spoke, "Relax, poy. I'm just warning him."
"You don't have to do that! I have enough after Kirby kick my butt back then!" angered Marx.
On the other hand, Magolor was still speechless. "B-but how? How can he do that too?"
"It's because he is the mirror copy of Kirby."
Everyone was startled by the sudden voice, turning behind them and saw Meta Knight and King Dedede. After Meta Knight finally remembered the past incident that led to Shadow's identity, he quickly met King Dedede and proceeded to meet them.
After they had found them, Meta Knight with such confidence was the one who said that statement but we all knew it was partially true.
Poy. Seriously? Again?
"Poyo? Mirror copy of me?" perplexed Kirby.
"Indeed, Kirby. The reason why is his accent, his size and such. Also, the ability he managed to gain is so identical to you, is because he was a copy of you. A mirror copy from the Mirror World."
"M-mirror World, poy?"
"A world where copies from their outside world alias 'us' were born and live. I assumed he never told you where he is from?"
"P-poy. He only said he was from far away and can use a warp star to go there, poy."
"Wait?! He have a warp star too?!" shocked Bandana Dee.
Kirby was so shocked. The strong bonding they have, the heartwarming feeling he felt when with him last night, the 'final piece' of his life was all it because he met a duplicate of himself? He doesn't know why but he felt betrayed. Again~
Meanwhile, Shadow didn't say anything. He was standing still, staring at the ground. The feeling of anger boiled ever more inside of him after Meta Knight declare that he was just a 'mirrored copy'. All his life, suffer because of this misconception. He had enough of hearing this.
"P-poyo. I-" His heart began to feel that horrible feeling again like the time Marx and Magolor betrayed him.
"I am sorry to tell you this, Kirby, but when I knew about this it was obviously that he was being secretive."
"Wow. So he was just a copycat," mocked Marx again, causing Magolor to hit his head warning not to interrupt.
"P-poyo. S-shadow. Why didn't you-"
"ARGH! I'M NOT A MIRRORED COPY, POYOO!" screamed Shadow, silencing everyone.
"Why do people always mistake me as a mirrored copy, poy?! I am not, poy! I AM NOT!"
Seeing Shadow outburst of denial was heartbreaking for Kirby. Despite himself was also hurt, he can sense Shadow's pain was even deeper. He slowly reached his hand on him, trying to calm him down, however, Shadow rejected harshfully.
"WHAT?!" blared Shadow again which froze Kirby. Shadow's eyes are on the edge of crying.
Meta Knight then said something making the situation more worse. "You know you do not have to lie to yourself."
"Why you!"
"Meta poyo! No!" panicked Kirby. He knew Shadow wasn't lying.
"Why would I want to lie about myself?! Am I really that pathetic to hide my true identity?! I have evidence to prove it but Kirby here is too forgetful to remember me?!"
Startled by that statement, guilt suddenly weigh on Kirby's shoulders. Realising that he was the evidence for this misunderstanding, it was upsetting for him because he really couldn't remember anything. This made his head spin a bit.
"S-shadow, poy. I know you want so bad for me to remember the past, poy. But I really really sorry, poyo. I don't remember anything back then, poy. I don't have any memories of when I was a toddler. All I could remember was my name and how I got crashed in Dreamland, poy. I'm really sorry, poy," explained him.
This shocked Shadow. The reason why Kirby didn't affect the separation was him losing his memories. Hearing about it tore him apart. Tears now racing down his cheeks, his chest aching like it was stab and the walls in him had finally shattered flowing out his pains. He could just wail in agony to let his pain out but he just couldn't.
All his life suffering from separation, always hoping Kirby still remembers him but no, life is cruel for him.
"S-shadow, poyo?" worried Kirby. It was the first time in his life seeing someone cry with so much despair.
Lowing his head, Shadow weakly murmured, "P-poyo. So thats why. I see. T-that's it, poy. I'm done. It was nice meeting you Kirby, poyo. Thank you for your hospitality. I-I should go now, poy." With that, he slowly walked away.
"P-poyo! Wait!" called Kirby reaching his hand towards him. He didn't fully understand what was happening, why Shadow suddenly wanted to leave.
He grabbed Shadow's hand. "Shadow! Wait! Why do you want to leave, poy?! I don't understand! What is so important if I remember about the past, poy? What kind of relationship we had before?" But instead of answering his questions, Shadow just let Kirby's hand go and leave.
"Shadow! Don't leave me!"
"I want you to know something, Kirby."
It still doesn't matter if I tell it.
"My full name is Shadow 'Kirby'."
You still won't remember me at all.
Hearing his full name, Kirby was shock that it was all too familiar. An unfamiliar memory suddenly came washing through his mind followed by a throbbing pain. Soon after, his sight had turned dark.
"KIRBY!" panicked everyone running towards the fainted child, whereas Shadow looked at him expressionless.
"I know I shouldn't bother your life. I'm just a big burden here. Especially when you lose your memories." With that, he left.
Meta Knight, holding his son, looked at Shadow walk away feeling a bit guilty. However, he was really curious about the real secret between them. But first, his son needs medical attention.
"We have to carry him home."
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At Kirby's house.
It's been 30 minutes since their new friend left them, causing the pink puffball to be unconscious. As they all waited for the child for a sudden movement, Meta Knight and Bandana Dee were carefully treating him.
"Wha' are we gonna do now?" questioned King Dedede.
"Before that. More importantly we need to know why Kirby pass out?" adjusted Magolor what they need to know.
"He passed out after that copycat said his full name, 'Shadow Kirby.' It does make sense since he is a mirrored copy of Kirby. Plus he is grey, like a shadow," reminded Marx.
"But he denied that he wasn't."
Bandana Dee also agreed with Magolor. "I agreed with Magolor, here. He looked so heart broken when Kirby said he lost his memories about the past. We don't even know that because we appear in his life after that. Don't know about Sir Meta Knight and King Dedede."
"Hey, he never talk anytin' where he came from. We ain't know," answered King Dedede. It was true. Back then, Kirby was just a curious little toddler with a big appetite. He never showed any sadness or anything regarding where he was born. Which is why Meta Knight and King Dedede did not know he had lost his memories or any clue where he was born.
Meta Knight, stared at his son silently, thinking if he hadn't acted so rash without a confirmation if it was right or not from the grey puffball, Kirby wouldn't be like this right now. But there's nothing they can do now, what is done is done. The only thing they can do was to truly know the real story about Kirby's past and only Shadow Kirby knows about it.
"I had to find him," he said, startling the others who were discussing.
"Shadow?" guess Bandana Dee.
"He's the only way for us to know their stories. Also, he had to come back and be there for Kirby. The way Kirby refused to let go of Shadow, Kirby must have felt something special about him."
"So, it wasn't because he was just identical to him, right? It makes so much sense," realised Magolor.
"If I don't find him. Kirby will always wondering where he was from. Eagering to know so much about the connection between him and Shadow."
"I understand, Sir Meta Knight. But what do you mean 'I' in finding him? We're not allowed?" asked Marx.
"The blame is on me for what's happening right now. I am being a horrible father for him. I had to fix this. I had no time to lose, he might be far away now," stated Meta Knight, quickly running out from the house preparing to fly.
"Wait! Sir Meta Knight! You don't have to do this alone! Let us help too!" spoke Bandana Dee.
"No, your task right now is taking care of Kirby. Prevent him from crashing down in his thoughts. It will upset him again." With that he flew away, searching for the grey puffball.
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It has been almost an hour Shadow had walked away and Meta Knight was worried if the child had gone too far ahead.
I hope he has not gone far or worse, gone back to the Mirror World. It is still far away from the centre of Dreamland but by using a warp star, it can still be achieved.
Still having no luck, he came across a grassy valley at the cliffs of Dreamland, named Vegetable Valley.
The place was the same as always. The beautiful plains covering the head cliff, the glistering lake move smoothly with the current as he flew above it and the faint sound of crying.
Faint sound of crying?
Shadow! Is that you? Where are you?!
He frantically scanned the area around him until he spotted a figure sitting near the edge of the cliff. As he flew gracefully, he quietly landed behind it. There it was, Meta Knight had finally found Shadow.
After hearing the devastating truth about Kirby, Shadow, with a broken heart, had run away without knowing about the places in Dreamland. He didn't really care where it was. All he wanted was just to be far away from Kirby, that's where until he found this place. It was located far end of the Dreamland and really far from the Mirror World. He didn't feel he wanted to go home yet. His heart was too much sorrow. He just wanted to let it out.
Sitting near the cliff, with the magnificent view in front of him, he finally burst into tears. He couldn't bear this pain anymore. Wishing he could hug someone right now but he was alone, alone in this new world.
Meta Knight couldn't help but to feel sympathy towards the child. Suffering at such a young age, it was the worst they could ever experience. Similar to being a hero.
Unfortunately, he couldn't just leave him alone yet. Placing his hand on his mouth, he made a cough sound, startled Shadow.
"WAH!" screamed Shadow, creating a big echo around them. He quickly turned around facing the knight.
"You! What do you want, poy?!" asked Shadow, still feeling upset towards him.
"Is it not enough you telling everyone about your false assumption? And now you're looking for me, poy?! What do you want, poy?!"
"I want to apologies. I've realised I had made a terrible mistake. We now know, you are much more for Kirby and we only judge you by the look." However, Shadow did not respond to his apology. He was being sulky.
"Also, I came here to bring you back to Kirby. You witness him fainting in front of you. Aren't you worried?"
"Poyo? Bring me back, poy? Just because you're his father, poy, doesn't mean I have to follow what you want! Besides, poyo! It's best if I'm not there." The last sentence was more of a murmur. He was worried about his twin but he doesn't want to make it worse anymore, besides he is still in pain right now.
"Why does it matter that I'm his father, Shadow?" That question got Shadow to flinch. He almost told the truth about him.
"Poyo."
"Pardon, Shadow?"
"I don't want to tell you, poy! What's the point if I tell you or anyone else where Kirby still doesn't know me, poyo!"
"You have to accept the fact, Shadow Kirby. Life isn't all sunshine and rainbows."
"You think I dont accept my life, poy? I got trapped in Mirror World because this stranger think I'm a mirror copy! I accept my life that I live there, poyo! You don't think I don't accept, poy?! I know life is cruel!"
The sudden confession widened the Knight's eyes. This made Shadow realise. He immediately looked away from him, preventing himself from talking.
"You really are a mysterious one, young child. What danger if you tell anyone about your identity?" Shadow refuses to say anything. Meta Knight continued, "Would it be just fine if you told Kirby in the first place?"
"Poyo! I told you! It's no use, poy!"
"Did you not realised something, Shadow? Kirby fainted when you've mentioned your full name. The name triggered him to know about the past. His subconscious was trying to remember you without him knowing."
"Poy! But I made him hurt! It's my fault, poyo!"
"Shadow, it wasn't your fault in the first place. Being in pain is a must have for us in life. Just like training, working hard to a point we get hurt, for us to succeed."
He finally realised what he had done. He was too doubting of himself, always admitting he was just a burden. Feeling ashamed of himself, he apologised, "I am sorry, sir Meta Knight."
"It's alright, Shadow. Now, who are you, Shadow? What's the connection between you and Kirby?"
"Erm, poyo. Alright, I tell you, poy. I'm his younger twin, poy," confessed Shadow. Meta Knight didn't expect that was the answer between them, but it does summaries altogether, since he wasn't a mirror copy.
"So, that's the reason why you mention me as Kirby's father. You considered me my son too," amused the knight, showing bright pink eyes.
Shadow got flustered with that sentence. "Poyo! Please! I don't want to think about that first, poy!"
Meta Knight just let out a small chuckle. "Yes, of course. So, since you are his twin, I assumed you are a Star Warrior too. Am I right? You possess the same ability too."
Again, Shadow was shocked. It was the same question his mentor asked him before.
"I understand why you ask me that, poy. I got asked that question too before. But sadly I'm not, poyo. I know about Kirby's heroic action in defeating Nightmare, but I'm not like him, poy. The only heroic thing I've done was saving Mirror World. But that's just because I have too, poyo. I'm the only person that is not under control from that enemy," explained him, but Meta Knight just shook his head.
"By judging the fact that you willing to save your world by yourself is what a Star Warrior should be. If you are in a cowardly state and do not care for the people around you, then you do not qualify as a Star Warrior. Being a Star Warrior have 2 ways, either you are born as a natural Star Warrior like you and Kirby or you have to train to be one. For instance, myself."
"But why those kidnapper only kidnapped Kirby and not the both of us, poy?" That was the question he still didn't know.
"I might assume it was because they thought you are the mirrored copy. They did not know that both of you are twins."
It was mind blowing for Shadow. All the questions he eager to know, the cause of doubting himself for knowing more about himself, he finally understand everything.
"You are much more than you expect, Shadow Kirby. You kept doubting your potential. Sometimes, you shouldn't underestimate yourself, you will not know how far you can achieve."
Somehow, it made Shadow's heart feel so at ease right now. Tears of happy joy flowing out of him.
"Poyo! Thank you so much, Sir Meta Knight, poy! I feel so much better about my life now, poy! I thought I'm just some useless person! I'm so sorry for being so mad at you, poy. I just couldn't help myself. I have a bad case of anger issues, poyo!"
Meta Knight just showed his blue coloured eyes, gladly he can help him.
"So? Should we meet Kirby now?" reminded him.
"Poyo! I forgot! Yes, Sir Meta Knight!" With that, both of them now went back to Green Greens, with Shadow on his warp star and Meta Knight flying right by his side.
"By the way, Shadow Kirby."
"Poyo?"
"How is Dark Meta Knight? Is he doing alright?"
"Poyo! Mentor is doing fine, poy. Right now I'm guessing he's guarding the mirror portals. After the enemy invaded Mirror World, poyo, we became more aware of any threats."
"I understand."
"Poy, how did you meet him before?"
"Will tell you some other day."
.
.
.
.
Back at Kirby house. It had been 2 and half hours since Meta Knight had left searching for the runaway child and by then Kirby was still unconscious.
"Do you guys think sir Meta Knight can find him?" wondered Bandana Dee as he carefully wiped the patient's forehead with a damp towel. Meanwhile, the rest were sitting on the floor playing cards and King Dedede wasn't getting any luck on winning.
"Hey! How are ya guys so good? I haven't won anythin'!" frustrated him.
"Maybe if you focus on making strategy rather than being so cocky, you might win," mocked Magolor.
"Or you're just a big airhead that didn't want to use his head," added Marx with a smirk.
"Ya dare to make fun of this beloved King of Dreamland?!"
"Yeah, we are," teased both of them without fazing.
"Guys! I'm asking here!" shouted Bandana Dee annoyingly due he got ignored by them. "Why do you guys even play in the time like this?!"
"Dont worry too much, Bandy. It's not even dark yet. The only problem if he went back to his home," chilled Marx.
"He will be okay, Bandy. Kirby is strong. I know he will go through it," replied Magolor too.
"I can't believe you guys."
Suddenly, they heard a groaning sound from Kirby, immediately halting what were they doing. Rushing to him, they saw his eyes slowly open.
"P-poyo~" murmured Kirby, still having quite the headache.
"Kirby! Thank goodness, you wake up! We're so worried about you!" relieved Marx.
"Says the one who is playing cards just now," shot Bandana Dee with a glare.
"Shut it!"
"How are you feeling, Kirby?" asked Magolor as he helped him to sit up.
Still in a weak state, Kirby replied, "P-poyo. Still having this big headache, poy. What happened, poyo?"
"Ya passed out after tha' Shadow kid told his full name," told King Dedede. Suddenly, 3 pairs of eyes glaring madly at him. They were informed before by Meta Knight that they shouldn't let Kirby think about the whole incident until he found Shadow. Now look what King Dedede did, he had made Kirby remember what happened.
"Poyo! Where's Shadow?!" frantic Kirby looking left and right.
"Urm, he-" Bandana Dee was about to say something but was cut off.
"Where is he?! Poyo!"
"Calm down kid! Ya shouldn't be shoutin' like tha'. Ya still sick," panicked King Dedede.
"Poyo no! I have to find him, poy! I don't want him to leave me!" refused Kirby as he qucikly get off from his bed. The amount of panic had overcome the headache he had right now.
"No, Kirby! Although we have no idea what connection was between you and Shadow in the past, acting hashly while in your bad condition isn't gonna help you!" worried Bandana Dee as he blocked Kirby from going outside.
"Let me go! Poyo!"
"Calm down Kirby! Sir Meta Knight is searching right now for you!" Added Magolor, helping Bandana Dee.
Suddenly the front door swung open and everyone frozenly stared at the door wondering who. Meta Knight had appeared behind it. Seeing him, Kirby squirmed out from his friends grasp and ran towards Meta Knight.
"Poyo! Where's Shadow?!" asked him for the third time now. However, the knight did not answer.
Assuming he fail to find Shadow, Kirby dropped to the floor and sobbed. "Shadow, poyo! He's gone forever! Poyoooo!"
"Why did he have to leave, poy?! What did I do?! I just don't know about the past and he just pushed me away! This feeling, poyo! That longing feeling of something missing! I have no idea why is I have this. But after Shadow came, he saved me from this feeling, poy. He made me feel whole, poyo! But now he's gone!"
Everyone else was in silence, sympthany towards their friend. They never knew Kirby, the easy going friend have this kind of thoughts. He managed to fool people by his unfazed smile, afraid people would worry him.
"I feel so sorry for Kirby," whispered Bandana Dee to Magolor and Marx.
"Yeah, me too. But why did Sir Meta Knight come back so early? There's no way he would just give up when it's not even dark, " questioned Magolor.
"Unless..."
"Hey, is that what I see it is, behind Meta Knight?" spoke Marx. Magolor and Bandana Dee then peek behind the knight searching for what their friend meant. They saw a small round grey. Looking back at each other with a blink, they peek again to make sure. It was Shadow Kirby, they were sure of it.
"Is Sir Meta Knight trying to know Kirby inner thoughts by doing like this?" guess Bandana Dee.
"He did ask us not to make Kirby think too much," noted Magolor. Marx nodded agree to where this is going. "Yup. He meant doing this."
"Meta! Why do you have to say that to him, poy?! He's my friend! You even almost make me feel I was betrayed by him for him not telling the truth, poy. But then whatever his identity was I don't care now! I want him back!" continued Kirby, now blaming Meta Knight.
Suddenly, a hand was placed on the child's head, followed by a familiar poyo.
"Poyo?" He looked up and saw Shadow was now in front of him, giving a sad smile.
"Still thinking of me as a friend, poy?"
Immediately, Kirby gave Shadow a big hug, almost losing their balance.
"HUWAAH! SHADOW!"
"Poyo, I'm here now. I'm not going anywhere after this."
"Huwaaah!"
A hand softly patting Kirby's head, Shadow allowed Kirby to let out his sadness, hence, creating a heartwarming silence between them. After almost 15 minutes, Kirby finally calm down. He began to ask why Shadow decided to come back.
Shadow replied, "Sir Meta Knight help me, poy. I keep blaming myself, always upset why is this happening to me, poy. But I've realised I should not be so upset. Everything happens for a reason, poyo."
He took a deep breath before continuing.
"Poyo. So, you also suffered from this, poyo. Sir Meta Knight and I are sorry for making you cry just now, poy. Sir Meta Knight ask me to hide for awhile for you to confess your feeling towards us. And now I understand, poy, although you lost your memories, that longing to meet each other had made a huge impact on you."
"Poyo? What do you mean?"
Shadow just smiled sheepishly, embarrassed why he didn't even try telling him the first place.
"The reason why you feel I'm special is because...we're twins, poy."
Everyone in the house except Shadow and Meta Knight gasps in disbelief.
"Kirby has a twin?!"
"No wonder he was so upset when we said he is a mirrored copy."
"All the accents, the copy ability. It's because they are twins!"
"Everything makes sense now!"
Whereas, Meta Knight just kept quiet only his pink coloured eyes showed how he is feeling right now.
Kirby recalled back to last night's dream, he now knew the person who called out his brother was Shadow. With so much happiness, he hugged Shadow once more, so glad they finally have met after many years.
.
.
.
.
"Poyo! You're leaving me?! Again?!" upset Kirby as Shadow was getting ready to leave with his warp star. Its have been a month after the incident and everything seem to be calm again. Well, except for today.
Right now, everyone was outside the area of Castle Dedede where Shadow was going to leave.
"Poyo?! Why?!"
Shadow just gave him a sorry look. He really didn't want to leave Kirby again but he had no choice. Mirror World still needs him.
"I have to, Kirby, poyo. I'm so sorry."
"Did we upset you somehow, poy?!"
Shadow chuckled by the misunderstanding. "You should stop misunderstanding me, Kirby, poyo. I'm not mad at everyone. I have to go home, poy. Although I might not be a mirrored copy, poyo, it's my will to protect Mirror World. I'm a Star Warrior too like Sir Meta Knight said and I'm happy to be one just like you two, poy. Or a Star Ally like King Dedede, Bandana Dee, Magolor and Marx."
Understanding his twin intention, Kirby smiles sheepishly as he rubs his head embarrassed.
Shadow continued again. "Don't worry Kirby, poyo. I'll always visit you and everyone, poy. I'll never forget the good and bad times we have over the past month. And Kirby..."
"Poy?"
"Don't forget me again, alright, poy? Once it's enough."
"Poyo! I would not forgot you again! I promise!"
Suddenly, Shadow's warp star start nudging him, wanting to start flying. With that, Shadow bid them goodnight and soon after, he disappeared through the clouds.
THE END!
FINALLY! This one-shot is finished. Almost 14K guys, almost 14K. This the the longest story I ever wrote not even writing multiple chapters will get this.
I know, I know, I literally made them out of characters. I'm so sorry!
Yes, yes, Meta Knight is a daddy here. I always think of him like that. However, I don't make Dark Meta Knight the daddy here, just as Shadow's guardian/mentor/friend.
I chose to include both from the game and the anime like the "nightmare enterprise" and the names of parts of Dreamland. I actually explained it a bit detail although I said I'm not going to. I don't know why. I don't want to include Tiff/Fumu and Tuff/Bun because I want Magolor and Bandana Dee in my story. (Besides, he's one of my favourite Kirby characters)
If you guys still confused about their personalities here, here's the summary:
Shadow: Anger issues, Loner, Always blaming himself, Kind of a depressed person
Kirby: Similar to his original personality but he had this emptiness because he lost his memories so he has some angst. (I'm not planning to make him too sad okay. He's a baby! Well, in my story here, he is 10 years old. Hahaha)
Meta Knight: Similar to his original personality but he have that father figure
Dark Meta Knight: A bit harsh but actually more of a tsundere (don't really show it here oops).
Bandana Dee: Same personality as original but a bit smart and a bit mature.
Magolor: Smart, a bit mature but like to tease (Since he betray Kirby before so he had that naughty side)
Marx: Similar to Magolor but not mature.
King Dedede: Just the same.
Okay, I think that's all I could say. Please, PLEASE care about my content and not my vocab and grammar.
READ, REVIEW EVERYONE! YOU CAN ALSO FAVOURITE AND FOLLOW.