The Grey Ancient

by Ancient2

This is the Kingdom Hearts storyline through Riku's point of view. It's a take on who he is, where did he come from, and 'what' he is. Neither of the Light, nor the Darkness. So then where does he belong?

18. Chapter 18

Coming to the Understanding

... Day 175 ...

Neverland

Riku had returned to Neverland, checking in on Hook's condition. He had looked around to see that Captain Hook and Mr. Smee had dug up a lot more of the islands while he was away. It concerned Riku how many holes he has come across. Usually, at this point, a person would give up and say that 'it's a fool's cause' or 'we've been tricked'. But Hook seems to have kept going with his Fool's Hunt, his greed fuelly his energy and borderline madness.

Riku had followed the holes to the main island, hoping that they would lead him to Hook or possibly clues to his condition. The main island was strange compared to the barren little islands surrounding it. As Riku was walking along the hole-trail, the landscape had instantly changed from barren rock seaside to dense forest to sudden tropical jungle with a heat spike. Riku found the lack of landscape transition bizarre. But even more so, the fact that the distance between holes seemed to increase than cease in their trail as he moved further inwards into the island.

"..." Riku stopped at the last hole, pondering to himself. 'If the trail stops here, then why? Captain Hook has been digging all over the place, thanks to those infernal Treasure Maps, surely a hand full of them must have pointed to marks all over this island. So then why...what could have possibly stopped him from continuing onward from this point?'

That's when his thoughts were interrupted by the sound hooting and hollering as the bushes rustled around him.

"BANGARANG!" Came the shout of many voices.

"?!" Riku was startled and rightfully confused as he was suddenly surrounded by a group of boys in animal onesie-pajamas holding stick clubs and slingshots with rocks. And he wasn't talking pebbles, Actual rocks. Big enough to knock someone's memories into next week or give someone's noggin a good goose egg. They were armed and ready to strike, causing Riku to pull out his Soul Eater on instinct. He looked around them, waiting for one of them to make the first move.

"Wha?" "Wha?" The twins in Raccoon pajamas said together in confusing. They were tilting their heads like mirror imaging one another, not knowing how to take Riku's presence on the island. The others were at a stomp too, lowering their weapons slightly.

"That ain't a grown up." Huffed the boy in the fox pajamas as if he was slightly disappointed at missing a scrap. However, he never really let his guard down, judging Riku and his black coat with suspicious eyes. "But he's still weird."

"He's scary," commented the boy in rabbit pajamas. He was shaking a little, Riku's face hidden behind that dark hood was utterly eerie for him.

"Not so scary to me," countered the boy in bear pajamas. He was obviously the biggest and bravest of the bunch.

"He's a weird, scary, bigger kid." Clarified the rabbit kid, not helping to ease his nerves.

"Uhh," Riku replied in a stoop, slowly standing down and putting his weapon away as he tried to take control of the situation. "Hi. Hello, uhh... strange boys with sticks. I'm just looking for some answers. I mean you guys no harm. Who's in charge here?"

"I am!" Answered the bear boy, puffing out his chest in pride with his fists on his hips, only to push to the side by the fox kid.

"No, I am!"

They started shoving each other as they argued back and forth. Riku interrupted before they broke out into a fight.

"No, I meant a grown up." Riku said with a groan, shaking his head with a hand on his forehead at their antics. However, he must have picked a poor choice of words as the boys stopped fighting and all the tension was brought back on him.

"All grown ups are Pirates!" Responded the bear.

"Excuse me?" Riku got a little nervous. He wasn't expecting a sudden change in their mood as their guards went up again.

"There are only pirates here. And all of them work for Captain Hook." The bear kid said with a slight growl as they all raised their weapons again.

"I'm not a Pirate."

"But you're not a Lost Boy either!" Countered the fox kid with suspicion. "How do we know you're not a spy for Hook?"

"Because I'm not!"

"Prove it!" Shouted all the boys- with the exception of the smallest boy in the skunk pajamas.

"How?!" Riku countered back, getting annoyed.

Suddenly a small bell-like twinkle could be heard come towards them from the trees. The ringing could be heard more before the light could be seen as a small familiar fairy in a green dress came towards them. She circled around the boys overhead as if to get a scoop of the situation before coming down close to the Lost Boys' ears. Riku tensed slightly in recognition of her. The last time she had seen him was not on good terms. If she knew these boys, this could all go downhill quick.

"Tink! Good to see you!" The fox boy greeted her in excitement before bringing his attention back on Riku with his guard up again. "This kid showed up out of nowhere! He might be working with Captain Hook!"

"!" Tinker Bell's chime was loud in alarm as she pounced a little at the news. Flying swiftly from the boys at a speed that would be hard for even Riku to catch her, she began circling around him, leaving a trail of fairy dust in her wake. At first Tinker Bell was confused, coming to a stop above Riku's head out of arms reach. She couldn't get a feel for him. No darkness, no light. It was almost as if his presence was block or something. Well if she can't get a feel for him her way then she'll just have to go about it the old fashion way.

"!" Before Riku could react, she had dived at him, pulling down his hood in the process. It was like time had stopped as Tinker Bell circled back around to get a look at his face only to freeze in her place as she recognized him. Riku was in the same boat as well, although for different reason. He was nervous, a little scared of how she would react. Braving past these worries, he broke the ice. "Uhh, hey Tink..."

"!" It was as if his words had broken through Tink's deer-in-headlight daze. Her eyes widened in shock for a second, before they turned rigid as her body and light engulfed itself in livid red. "!"

"?!" Riku was startled at her spitfire reaction. She was stomping around with angry jumps in the air, wagging her small fists at him while adding some air kicks for good measures. Riku had leaned back a little as she stormed towards him in the air. Only to receive a kick on a lock of hair near his forehead before she retreated back to the Lost Boys. She was stomping one foot down in the air, continuously pointing at Riku with aggression as she looked at the boys, chiming angrily. "!"

Riku felt bad that she was responding towards him so negatively. But at the same time, he couldn't help but wonder how can something so angry be so cute.

"What?!" The fox kid jumped in alarm. Turns out the boys could understand the silent fairy's bell language. "This guy was there helping Hook when he kidnapped Peter and Wendy!"

"!" That got all of the boys ready to attack.

"Wait! I no longer work with Hook anymore. I've changed." Riku insisted, putting his hands out in a stopping motion.

"Yeah right, you liar!" The fox kid said back with snark.

"Yeah!" The twins agreed together.

"It's the truth!" Riku replied before his voice softened with a plea. "(Sigh) Look, I know, I know I did some bad things... I was lost, alone, and a little scared. I lashed out, making wrong choices with the wrong people. I thought that my actions would protect me from the people that were making me feel that way. But, I never realized that I was the one causing myself to be alone and hurt before it was too late. The damage had been done. I had hurt so many people along the way; people I cared about and even people I didn't know.

"You got caught up in it, Tink. I was blinded in hatred by a false sense of betrayal I lost myself in that I didn't think about the harm I had done. What I did back then to you guys to get what I wanted, even though you had never done me wrong, was terrible. I was a fool back then, a real fool. I was wrong... I was wrong and I'm sorry." Riku said before genuinely looking at Tink with sad eyes. "If you only take one thing from this, believe me when I say I'm sorry..."

"..." Tinker Bells red color was starting to fade and her frigid wings slightly loosened. She couldn't help it with that look in his eyes. She could practically see in his heart through them. What she saw in her eyes made her believe that maybe he had really changed. But she shook the thought out of her. This could all be a pretty lie to catch her and bring her back to Hook as bait. Steeling herself, she brought her walls back up again. "(Ring)! (Ring)!"

"Tink's right! He's tricking us!" Huffed the fox boy.

"!" Riku braced himself.

"Get him!" The Lost Boys roared, charging at him with their sticks. Riku feared he would have to make a Dark Corridor retreat only to be saved by someone he least expected. The Lost Boys came to an immediate halt, tripping over themselves as their smallest member blocked their path from Riku.

"Tootles?!" Called the bear boy in concern.

"What are you doing?" The fox boy was just as confused.

"..." But the boy in the skunk pajamas said nothing, putting his arms down as he turned around to face Riku.

"?" Riku raised an eyebrow in confusion as the boy named Tootles tugged on his coat in a silent request for him to bend down. Cautiously intrigued, Riku bent down to his level. Knelling down on one knee as he met Tootles eye to eye.

"..." Again Tootles said nothing, just slowly reaching out for Riku's face.

"Hm?" Riku had leaned back a little from the boys actions at first. But Sensing no ill will he stilled himself and allowed the boy's curious fingers. Riku was studying Tootles too as he sat still. All he could see beyond the curiousness on his face was the innocence in Tootle's eyes. Tootles played with his cheeks at first, stretching and raising them up before moving towards the under-lining of his eyes. It was like he could feel the tiredness and emotions carried under them that Riku was at a lost. Tootles then made his way down the sides of Riku's nose where he stopped at the ends of his lips. Pulling on the muscle he made Riku smile, which in turn made him smile too. It was like something he had seen in Riku had touched his smile to his eyes.

"?!" The others too circled around him to see what Tootles was seeing. It must have been something, because they were reacting the same way too. They saw something in his eyes that had reached out to theirs. Even Tink, resting on the bear boy's head, could see it too as her eyes started to water.

"I don't believe it," the fox boy gasped out in soft shock.

"He's one of us," the rabbit boy finished for the fox. The boys began to mumble among themselves.

"He's bigger but still just like us," commented the Twins. "What's your name?"

"Riku." Riku answered as they passed his name with each other.

"Another lost boy as made his way to Neverland," stated the bear.

"Well, welcome to Neverland, Riku the Coat." Greeted the rabbit as the tense atmosphere disappeared.

"(Ring)! (Ring)!" Tinker Bell was still not happy with the situation, stomping on the bears head with her tiny foot as she let out her protest like angry bells.

"But Tink, if Toots trusts him maybe he has changed." The bear argued to Tink.

"(Ring)! (Ring)! Ring)!" Tink continued her angry ringing as a form of counter-argument. Riku could only watch from the sides as an argument went on where he couldn't understand the second party.

"Okay what if he did help them catch Peter Pan, huh? He's not with Hook now is he? And we know Hook has been busy blowing Neverland up. Let's give him a chance." Countered the fox. Riku was touched that they were standing up for him, but he needed fight his own battles.

"I just came to help out." Riku insisted, rising to his feet again as he addressed Tinker Bell on the bear's head. "And Hook is going to destroy himself along with these islands if we don't find away to stop his darkness from growing. I want to make amends, let me help you, please..."

"Yeah, c'mon, give him a chance." All the Lost Boys chimed to Tinker Bell in agreement. Realizing she was out voted, Tinker Bell puffed out her cheeks in defeat as she sat down on the bear's head with her legs and arms crossed. She let out one chime as if saying 'fine.'

...Some time later...

The Lost Boys had been giving Riku a tour of their island, surprising him on how the island had random pockets of Winter which would immediately turn to Spring further up only to turn into Fall up ahead. The island had no consistent terrine or weather. Riku didn't even want to think about how their time ran, it was probably as chaotic as their island. By the time the sun was starting to go down the boys started to lead him towards the center of their island where their secret hideout was, or more accurately their home. While the time passed they decided to talk among themselves.

"Don't worry about the weather, you'll get use to it after a while. On the bright side, you can go sled riding whenever you want and jump in leave piles just as easily when it fits your mood." The fox assured, trying to give Riku a feel for Neverland. "Oh! Silly me, we've been wondering around for so long and haven't even introduced ourselves yet. I'm Slightly."

"The names Cubby," introduced the bear.

"I'm Nibs." Waved the rabbit.

"We're the Twins," said the raccoons at the exact same name.

"Just the Twins?" Riku asked, curious as to why they didn't give their real names let alone share the exact same name.

"Just the Twins," answered the Twins. "That's what Pan calls us."

"Oh, okay."

"And you know Tink and Toots." Slightly introduced, pointing at Tinker Bell who was flying along ahead of the group with her back turned to them and then pointing at Tootles who took up the rear in of the line.

"Hey Tink. Hi Tootles." Riku waved at Tinker Bells who kept her back turned to him while she crossed her arms at his greeting in cold welcome. While Tootles, unlike Tink, happily waved at Riku in greeting without saying a word.

"Is Tootles shy?" Riku asked Cubby in hush from the group. "I haven't heard him say a word yet."

"He's not shy, he just can't talk."

"O-oh..." So he's mute...

"So, Riku, where 're you from?" Asked Slightly, starting up a conversation again. "Are you from London too?"

"London? Do you mean you guys aren't from here?"

"Ah-ha haha! That's funny. But, no." Laughed Slightly. "None of us are originally from Neverland, we were brought here."

"Brought here? You mean you guys came from another World?"

"Well, yeah, I guess." Nibs answered, having to rub his head around on that. "All of us came from a place called London. You have to fly to get to Neverland: 2nd star on the right and straight until morning. Didn't you fly here?"

"Huh, not really, technically. I guess I cheated and opened up a door to here." Riku answered to the best of his ability while trying to wrap his head around the fact that Neverland was connected to another World as well. Alice had mention a place called London too, maybe all three Worlds have doors connecting to each other. Maybe these closely-tied Worlds are close knit remnants left behind from long ago when all the Worlds were connected as one. Either way, it was a fascinating concept.

"Aww man, that's so cool." "But also too bad, you're missing out." The Twins said, finishing off each other's sentence before saying , "Flying's so much more fun!"

"I don't think I'm ready to fly yet. Maybe after some practice."

"So, if you're not from London then where are you from?" Asked Slightly.

" I come from an island far away from here called Destiny Islands."

"London's an island too," pointed out Cubby.

"I guess we're all island boys!" Slightly stated with pride, getting all the other boys to cheer along as well.

"(Chuckle) Yeah, I guess we are." Riku grinned at their antics. But his next question soured the mood a little. "So, then, if you're not from Neverland why did you leave London?"

"..."

"Isn't it obvious?" Nibs countered in the silence.

"?"

"We came here the same reason all Lost Boys come to Neverland. We've lost the way home."

"Wha-"

"Oh, Look, we're here!" Slightly said, interrupting the mood as he pushed ahead of the group. "This is our Secret Hideout. Pretty neat, right?"

"It's rather big." Riku commented, looking at the giant tree which looks to be conformed into a tree-house inside and out. It looks like a comfy home and reminded him a lot of the big tree that he use to hang around on his old hangout island with Sora and Kairi. "Nice."

"Thanks!" Slightly smiled at the compliment. "Well, Pans not here right now, but you can have one of the free beds."

"Pan's gone? Did he go to London?" Riku asked as they went inside the tree.

"Yeah, he went to go visit Wendy and the boys." Cubby answered.

"Oh, then, he should be back soon, right?"

"It's hard to tell. Time flows crazy in Neverland." Slightly answered before the Twins finished explaining.

"He could be in London for only a few minutes and a few days have passed in Neverland." Explain one Twin and then the other picked up the rest. "Or he could be gone for days and only a few hours have passed in Neverland. It's never really the same."

"..." Well that's... alarming...

"Have a seat for a bit, we'll have supper ready soon." Suggested Nibs before heading off into the Kitchen area of the tree with the Twins. "I hope you have an appetite for Imagination."

"?" What?

... The next day ...

Dinner with the Lost Boys apparently was a challenge. Everything had smelt so good but he couldn't see anything. Riku had a hard time realizing that this was about Magic and Sense wouldn't help him. It took him flinging a pie pan at Slightly in frustration as he laughed at him before Riku could finally see the food. He had to use his imagination to see what is there. From what he could understand so far, Neverland was a World run by the power Imagination and Pure Belief. In a way, this World was run by the power of Innocence in children. But then again, Wonderland had the same foundation but that place ran more on the power of Creativity and Wonder.

After getting the knack of things, the food was good. And Riku was able to buckle down for a good nights rest. He was sleeping in a hammock matted with leaves and feathers with a blanket on top and an extra sky blue one to wrap himself in. He got a spot looking up through a hole in the tree truck where he could see the stars in the night sky and the Moon's light gently touched his face. All in all, it was a nice night. The next morning, however, was not as pleasant.

BOOM!

"!" Riku was startled awake, his eyes shooting wide open.

"Hook's at it again!" Slightly shouts out the alarm, rallying the boys up along with Tink.

"Shout to all my Lost Boys! We rally!" Cubby battle called to everyone. "BANGARANG!"

"BANGARANG!" All the other boys called back to him. Many of them loading their slingshots and uncovered catapults hidden in the juggle and fall foliage with various sizes of rocks and firing at the attackers at sea.

"Whoa!" Riku quickly had to Dodge a cannonball that came swirling at him only for it to land a few feet away from him. It appears that Captain Hook was firing his cannons at the island. But there wasn't any sort of pattern or point of focus as the ship cannons were fired at all sides. It almost seemed like he was firing blind. But this main island was important, most of the life on Neverland had made this island their home, Riku had to do whatever was in his power to protect it. Summoning Soul Eater, he prepared for a fight. "Alright, come on!"

This situation called for more of a defensive than an offensive tactic. Riku could make his way to the ship and take out the cannons there, sure, but that would still leave the island vulnerable to cannon fire in between then. The island couldn't afford to take much damage, and if any of cannons took down the big tree in the center of the island it would be a great lost to the Lost Boys. No, this situation called for them to play on the defense side. And lucky for the Lost Boys, Riku was well trained on both sides. This now had officially became a dangerous game of tennis.

The Lost Boys would fire their catapults and slingshots and then duck for cover as the cannonballs came flying in. Riku would quickly Rush towards the cannonballs with too close for comfort timing to Cover or Block the cannonballs from the island or the boys. Coating his Soul Eater with his Magic to make sure it wouldn't explode on impact and actually bounce back towards the ship. Some landed in the ocean, most made a direct hit back to the ship. The process was exhausting and Riku was getting nervous sweats about his timing, but he couldn't afford making a misstep now he had to push forward. This process kept going on and on until finally Captain Hook had enough. His ship was starting to smoke from the damage and he was more than likely running low on cannonballs, so probably with much frustrated reluctance he made his tactical retreat.

"Lost Boys, we got'em on the run!" Shouted Slightly.

"YAY!" Cheered the other boys, jumping up his down in victory.

"(Sigh in relief)- Uff!" Riku had let his held in breath out in relief only to shortly after be tackled down by cheerful Lost Boys dog-piling him.

"You were amazing out there, Riku!" Commented Nibs as the other boys added in, tackling onto him too.

"How did you do that?!" "That was so cool!" "Can you teach us that too?!"

"Make Room!" Shouted Cubby as he came at Riku with a running start.

"!" Riku's eyes widen in alarm at the force and weight that would be crushed on to him. "No, no, wait wait! Ah!"

He had the breath knocked out of him along with the other boys at Cubby's run tackle. But soon after they all started laughing.

Tinker Bell started flying over them, enjoying the moment of fun they were having in their victory. But the battle wasn't over yet, they needed to keep their guard up. "(Chime, Ring, Ring)!"

"Tinks, right. It's not over yet." Slightly agreed with Tink as they all caught their breath and got up from the tackle.

"Yeah, Hook might come back for more." Added in Cubby, brushing himself off in case of dirt.

"We should split up and search the island. In case he decides to sneak attack us or left us a nasty surprise." Suggested Nibs.

"That's a great idea!" Slightly commented before pointing at his team. "Nibs, Twins, you're with me. Tootles, Tink, Riku, you're with Cubby."

"We'll head North, while you guys head South." Cubby instructed.

"Sounds good, we'll meet back up at the Tree House around sunset. Hook won't be able to attack us at nightfall." Riku instructed.

"Bangarang." Slightly nodded in agreement before the other boys added in too.

"Bangarang!"

Then they all split into their teams and went their separate ways.

"I've been meaning to ask," said Riku, as they made some distance from the others. "What exactly does Bangarang mean?"

"It's our battle cry." Cubby answered instantly before rubbing his hand along his chin as he gave it some more thought. "But I think means uproar or disturbance."

"Disorder?"

"Yeah, something like that."

"Hmm, I guess that would make a good battle cry."

... Later that day ...

They had marched all the way around the North side of the island and still saw no sign of Captain Hook. Which was good, means that Captain Hook had enough and would leave them alone or he took his business somewhere else. But now came the long march back home as the sun was starting to set. They were tired from walking around all day. Well all of them except Tinker Bell, she would just fly around and rest on either Cubby or Tootle's head when she was tired. But regardless, they were all eager to get home and get some rest or sleep.

But the march around the island wasn't all boring, they got to play traveling games, tell each other stories, and got to get to know each other better. Cubby got to tell Riku about all of the adventures the Lost Boys had together and Tootles would nod along or shake Cubby's sleeve if he forgot something in the stories. And Riku got to talk about his adventures on other worlds, his time on Destiny Islands with his friends. But as he continued on with his story, the others could start to hear the longing in his voice on how he missed them and how he wished he could go back to those times. They knew the feeling, all of them had felt the same way too. But that's what made them all Lost Boys, they couldn't go back to those times, those days were lost to them...

Soon they made it back to the Tree House, the other team making out of the trees not too long after them.

"Hey guys, how did it go?!" Waved Slightly.

"No sign of Hook. You?" Replied Cubby.

"No, same here." Answered Nibs. "But we can't let our guard down just yet."

"Let's search tomorrow!" Suggested the Twins together.

"But not all day, my feet are killing me."

"Agreed!" They all agreed with Nibs.

"Well, let's head in for some supper and a good night's sleep." Ordered Cubby as they all cheered in agreement and rushed in to the Tree House. But not Tootles.

"Hm?" Riku turned to look down at the youngest Lost Boy who was shaking his coat's sleeve for attention. "What's wrong Tootles?"

"..." Tootles shook his head to say 'nothing was wrong,' but he couldn't convey what he wanted to say. Well, not in this way. Reaching into the hidden front pocket of his skunk pajamas he pulled out a notepad and a pencil.

"?" Riku looked on curious as Tootles began hastily writing. He must've had a lot to say since he was going through pages. Soon Tootles was shoving the notepad near Riku's face. His writing was a little sloppy, but still readable.

'Listen Riku, there was a time when I was alone. Nowhere to go and no place to call home.' Tootles then flipped the page. 'My only friend was the man in the Moon. And even some times he would go away too.'

"!" So he had lost his family... From the sound of it, Tootles had spent some time in an orphanage before coming to Neverland. That must have been hard for him, especially being a mute. Kids could be so cruel to others that are different, he must have been alone for a long time there. Riku couldn't help the sorrow he felt for Tootles, he was a good kid. He was quiet but still one of the kindness people he has met on Neverland. But Riku didn't have long to feel pain for Tootles as the young boy started writing on pages again.

'Then one night, as I close my eye, I saw a shadow flying high. He came to me with the sweetest smile, told me he wanted to talk for awhile.' He then flipped the page. 'He said... Peter Pan that's what they call me, I promise that you'll never be lonely. And ever since that day...' Tootles flipped the page again. 'I am a Lost Boy from Neverland, usually hanging out with Peter Pan. And when we're bored we play in the woods, always on the run from Captain Hook.' He flipped the page one more time. 'Neverland is home to lost boys like me and lost boys like me are free.'

"..." Riku read into his words, trying to find the deep meaning behind them. "What do you mean lost boys like you are free?"

Tootles began writing again, and writing some more. He had written over five pages before turning the notepad back to Riku again.

'Tinker Bell sprinkled me in pixie dust and he told me to believe, believe in him and believe in me. Together we will fly away in a cloud of green, to our beautiful destiny.' Tootles then flipped the page. 'As we soared above the town that never loved me, I realized I finally had a family.'

"!" So this was home in Tootles' eyes. These people, these friends were his family. Riku was truly grateful that Tootles had found his happy ending from his loneliness. But deep down, it made Riku wonder, would he find his happiness out of the loneliness too? He wouldn't have long to ponder it since Tootles began to flip the pages again.

'Soon enough we reached Neverland, peacefully my feet touched the sand and ever since that day I am a Lost Boy from Neverland.' He flipped the page again. 'Run, run, lost boy, they use to say to me, away from all of reality. But Neverland is home to lost boys like me and lost boys like me are free.' He flipped the page one more time. 'Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Wendy, Lost Boys, even Captain Hook, they are my perfect story book. Neverland, I love it so, you are my home sweet home, forever a lost boy at last. And for always me heart will sing this. But will yours?'

"What?"

Tootles began writing some more, this time only filling up two pages.

'Neverland is my perfect storybook, along with many other Lost Boys. But you're a different Lost Boy. Your perfect storybook seems to be far away from here.' Tootles then flipped the page. 'I think you're scared to go face it, but that's okay, we were all scared to face ours at first too. But you'll never be free from the sadness and loneliness until you do. And Lost Boys like you and me ARE free."

"!" Riku's eyes widened at his words. There was so much meaning behind small words on a tiny notepad. But there was so much determination in Tootles' bright eyes. His mouth couldn't speak, but his eyes spoke so much more. Riku nearly had to look away from the Light shinning brightly from his heart through his eyes alone. "... Do you think I could do it...?"

Tootles wrote again.

'We all have beautiful destinies waiting for us. But you have to believe, believe in me and believe in you.' Tootles couldn't stress enough that Riku had to believe in himself to be strong enough to free himself from his sadness and loneliness. Once he finally believes in himself he'll truly be able to fly. Once more he flipped the page. 'But if you're bored, you can come back to Neverland and play with us whenever you want. Neverland will always welcome you back. You are a Lost Boy after all.'

"Yeah... That sounds nice. Thanks, Tootles."

"!" Tootles smiled with a nodded, grabbing Riku's sleeve before running past him to head inside for some much needed supper. Tootles was happy to help, Riku was a Lost Boy, so not only was he a friend he was family too.

... The next day ...

The teams had split up into smaller groups to cover more grounds in less amount of time. Breaking up into groups of two to cover both North, South, East, and West. Slightly had paired with Nibs, The Twins had stayed together, Cubby had paired up with Tootles, and Riku was left with...

Tink.

"..." She flew high and further up ahead from Riku, making sure to give him the cold shoulder and not even address his presence.

"Are you still not talking to me?" Riku asked her to break the heavy silence. But as he got no response, or a chime, or even a look back he sign in deflation. "How long are you going to keep giving me the cold shoulder?"

"(Chime)!" She gave him a chime, but only to display her displeasure in him by stomping her foot down in the air as she raised her noise up and kept her back to him with her arms crossed.

"(Sigh) Great..."

... Later that night ...

Riku couldn't find it him to go to sleep yet. In his awake state, he climbed his way up the tree to find himself a thick, sturdy branch to rest on and look at the stars.

"Riku."

"?" Riku turned to look towards the call to see that it was Cubby, climbing his way up to join him. Sitting up from his lounging state he made room for Cubby for when he made it up to him. "Cubby? What are you doing up? Couldn't sleep either?"

"Yeah. Can I talk to you for a minute?"

"Sure Cubby." Riku slid over a little bit more for Cubby to get comfortable on the branch.

"What are you doing up here?"

"Just looking at the stars. The formation are different but they're as bright here as they are back on Destiny Island."

"Are they really that interesting?"

"Yeah. The stars are all my friends, through the night they're there. Even when I'm alone or on my own, they're always there. So when I'm alone I'm not alone, not really alone."

"You know, I never really thought about it that way..." Cubby said in silent awe as he looked up at the night sky too. But then he looked down the tree below that he's called home for a long times. "Riku, do you know how Neverland works...?"

"Not really, no."

"Neverland makes you forget. But never in a bad way. It's like a Mommy or Daddy trying to take the bad memories away. This world was made for lost boys. This place helps you find your Happy Thoughts."

"Ha, I guess I really have been feeling happy here." Riku laughed under his breath at the thought.

"Yeah, I bet you had lots of fun playing cricket with cannonballs." Cubby began bursting out with laughter making openly laugh too. They both couldn't help but laugh at the memory of some of the cannonballs hitting a bulls-eye right back at Captain Hook, they could just imagine the look on his face. The thought alone was priceless. Slowly Cubby began to catch his breath again. "Riku, you know what?"

"What?" Riku replied, steadying his breath again.

"My Happy Thought might help you."

"What's your Happy Thought, Cubby?"

"My mother..." Cubby answered with a warm smile as his eyes disappeared from the present for a second at the warm memory. Riku could practically feel the happiness from Cubby's Heart it was warming. Cubby then turned to look over at Riku. "Do you remember your mother, Riku?"

"Yeah... I do..."

"My mother was very warm and kind. I miss her all the time, but the thoughts of her are the happiness ones I ever have." He was looking up at the sky as he thought of her. From what Riku could tell from his heart's patterns, Cubby had lost his mother before he was left all alone and found his way to Neverland. Riku was confused, he couldn't help but feel sorry and happy for Cubby. He was happy that Cubby could find a home and a family of his own after being left alone and that he had nothing but happy memories of his mother. But also couldn't help but feel sorry for him too, Riku couldn't even imagine if he had truly lost his mother too. He didn't even want to think about it. But he was brought back into the now as Cubby began to talk to him again as he looked back at him. "Do you ever think about your mother, Riku? Or your Dad?"

"My mother, all the time. My Dad..." His fingers clinched into the bark in nervousness. "I don't think he wants to see me anymore."

"Why not?"

"I ran away from home, and left it in such a mess. I wouldn't be surprised if he hates me now."

"You'll never know until you find out. And until you find out you'll never truly be able to let go and be free. I think that might be at the core of the reason why you're so sad."

"!"

"Am I wrong?"

"No... I think you're right."

"So, are you going home?"

"I... Yeah."

"When?"

"Tomorrow."

"Will you ever come back? Are you going to forget us?"

"No, I could never forget you Lost Boys. Never." Riku answered truthfully from the bottom of his heart. "Besides, I am one too after all."

"Heh, right. Come back anytime. We can have more adventures, maybe play with Peter Pan, or Captain Hook again. That was a great game."

"Yeah... Thank you all for believing in me."

... Day 193 ...

Gently Riku's feet touched down on the sand as the Dark Corridor had closed behind. He couldn't believe how long he had spent in Neverland. But it was more like he didn't know how long he's spent. To him and the others on Neverland it had only been three days, but to the worlds outside Neverland's time flowed more chaotic. Riku's three days had turned into seventeen. But finally he arrived, after such a long time he was finally home.

Destiny Islands

At first he was nervous. Everything looks the same, like it was right where he left it before the Door was open. But even if everything looks like before doesn't mean that things haven't changed. He already knew, deep down in his heart, that nothing was like before. But regardless of his worries, the future wouldn't scare him. It was time for this Lost Boy to find his wings.

Riku walked along the beach that he once walked so many times before for years. He could walk the path blindfolded and never stub his feet. It was early morning, the sands were still cool from the night's touch and the sun had just risen. The birds were just waking up and the seagulls were singing with the ocean waves. This was just around the time when the fishermen would start getting ready to head out to sea. But he wondered... would his Pops be heading out too.

"!" Turns out the World wouldn't leave him wondering for long. Soon he Sense that he was not alone on the beach anymore. He could feel the person's presence before he heard their steps along the sand. Riku turned to look towards the company that was approaching him, worried at how they would react to his presence, or more concerning that they would recognize him.

"Riku?"

"!" I guess there was no longer delaying it. "Hi Pops."

"..." They stared at each other for a long time. Or as much as they could with Riku keeping his hood up. "So you've finally returned."

"Yeah..."

"Hm... Come fish with me?"

"W-Wha?"

"Come on, you've got time to spare." Replied the man Riku called Pops for so many years, placing a hand on Riku's shoulder as he lead him to the family boat that practically became the second home that Riku grew up in.

"Uh, I... How did you know it was me, Pops?"

"I can always tell it's you. That fancy coat doesn't change anything."

"!" Riku was more touched than concern, this man raised him from a baby of course he would be able to recognize him. Although he should have known this from the start, but the thought alone was still sweet to him.

"You should take that off. The afternoon sun will start to cook you in that thing." Pops suggested as they settled on the boat, untying it from the dock and lifting anchor.

"Sorry, I can't really do that right now. I need it to stay hidden." Riku replied, but still lowered his hood out of courtesy to his Pops. Thank goodness he didn't have his blindfold on today, that would have been unnecessary worry on his Pops heart that was already filling with relief and concern at his son's return. Though he may not show it on the outside, his heart was already chaotic and all over the place, Riku had always admired his Pops cool-headedness and amazing poker-face. As a child he would always try to mimic it, though it seemed to come naturally for him.

"Oh..." They had taken on a comfortable silence as Riku's Pops took them off further from shore to where the best fishing spot was. "You look well. Your hair is getting longer."

"Yeah... yours is too."

"Heh, don't get smart with me." Pops smirked, already knowing his beard and hair were starting to get scruffy, he would have to go in for a cut soon. "So how've you been?"

"Good? Bad? Both? (Sigh) It's a long story."

"That's the best thing about fishing, we have all the time in the world." Pops pointed out, as he lowered the fishing net into the water before handing Riku his own fishing rod as they both sat at the stern of the boat. Relaxing as they waited for the fish to take a bite of their bait. "So, start from the beginning."

"(Sigh) I don't even know where to start." Riku groaned as he looked down, no longer able to look his Pops in the eyes. "I ran away from home, met some bad people and made some bad choices. Now I have to live with the consequences as I try to make things right again."

"Hm, you've made mistakes, you don't deny them, and you even try to fix them. Sounds to me like you're becoming your own man."

"What? You mean, you're not mad at me?"

"No. I was at first, mostly mad and worried. But I knew you did what you thought you needed to do. You wanted answers and you went out to go look for them. I knew that you would come back when you were ready."

"But... I thought that you would never want me to come back, after what I had done."

"You're my son. I'll always want you to come back." Pops said seriously, looking Riku in the eyes before his eyes twinkled in humor. "Even when you're in your 40s, I'll want you to come visit my old hide."

"Pops..." Riku couldn't believe it. He was happy, but still, he didn't think his Pops fully grasped the severity of what he had done. "Pops, you don't understand, the darkness consumed Destiny Island. I left everyone behind, I left you behind, just to find out what else was out there."

"Hmm, I don't know much about that. All I know is that it felt like I had waken up from a long sleep and you were gone. If what you said is true then I'm glad that you made out okay."

"But Pops, I left you."

"And you could've done anything else?"

"?!"

"Riku, the islands were fading. You said Destiny Island was being consumed by darkness. There's not much you can do about something that is capable to swallow a whole world. You had two choices, either stay and be consumed with us or make a run for it while the chance was still there. And I'm glad you didn't go down with us."

"But-"

"Besides, we're all back. Everything is fine. There's no point beating yourself up about it now."

"But-… You are taking all of this really well." Riku said in confused disbelief.

"Riku, you came down in pod that had flown through the space between worlds. I take everything with a flow now." Pops commented with a point. "But still, we are back. So that means you must have done something to try and fix things and it worked."

"Not alone, I helped closed the Door to the Realm of Light from the Darkness and that helped bring the worlds that were lost back. But I wasn't the one to seal the door shut from both sides."

"Sounds to me that you made a lot of friends while you were out there. That's good. I was worried about you being alone, traveling the many worlds out there without a friend can get pretty lonely."

"..."

"So you've met a lot of people and made a lot of friends along the way. Did you finally get to meet her?"

"Y-yeah... Yeah, I found my mother."

"Hm, good." Pops couldn't help but smile for Riku, but then a sudden sad nervousness silently pinched at his heart. "And your father too?"

"Yeah I met him too. He's not doing so well and I want to help him. But regardless, no matter what, he may be my father but you're still my dad, Pops."

"!" The pinch was no longer there in his heart, and Riku could feel the warmth actually flood in. "Heh, right."

"..." Riku smiled back at him before both of them turned to face the ocean in tranquil silence.

"So, what are you going to do now?" His father finally asked, breaking the silence.

"I have to help a friend find his way back home too."

"Hmm, that sounds tough. What about School?"

"Mom is taking care of that with Home School. I won't be held back."

"Hm, that's good. Then I guess I haven't been telling a total fib after all."

"What do you mean?"

"The others were starting to worry about you, especially the kids. I told them you were doing a Transfer Student Program off island and you wouldn't be back for a while."

"I see... Have they been asking about Sora?"

"Who?"

"Tch. Nothing..." Riku turned away in heartbreak at the thought that nobody on their home-island even remembered Sora, not even his own parents... He had to fix this.

"But the others will be glad to hear that you're back, especially Kairi. They've really been missing you."

"... Dad, can you do me a favor?"

"What's that?"

"Can you not tell the others about me being here?"

"Hm?"

"I still have a lot to do out there, and I probably won't be back for some time. So, I don't want to draw attention to myself just yet or get their hopes up."

"Oh, I... I see. So... this will be the last time I'll see you in a while, isn't it?"

"Pfft, not really, Old Man. I'm still going to pop-in every now-and-then to make sure everything is okay. You can't get rid of me that easily, Pops."

"Heh, I guess not." He grin in silent relief as they enjoyed the quiet moment for a bit.

"So how have things been going around here?"

"Not much since you've been gone," answered Pops. "Just the start of a new year for School, the kids have been studying and hanging out as they usually do. They all still hang out on that island off-shore after school."

"I see. So, not much has changed."

"Well, not really. There is one little thing that's different."

"What do you mean?"

"The kids have been talking about this strange kid that's been showing up on the off-shore island every so often. The kids were starting to think that they're a ghost?"

"A Ghost? What make's them think that?" Asked Riku, turning to his Pops in curious attention.

"Well, the thing about this kid is that they would often show up everyday for weeks and then suddenly disappear for a long time before appearing again. They aren't doing much while they're there, just taking a seashell and watching the sunset. Then they suddenly disappear around a dark corner as if out of thin air."

"?!" Now he had Riku's full attention. "What did they look like?"

"Hard to say. The black coat they're wearing makes it hard to tell if they're a girl or a boy, but their size hints that they're a kid a little younger than you. I was starting to think that they were you, when you first came back, but it seems that that's not the case."

"Have they been back recently, Pops?"

"Hm, they were here yesterday, but not today. So I'm guessing they won't be back for some time."

"..."

"Do you know them?"

"Maybe... I'm going to have to go find some answers."

"Hm, take as long as you need."

"I'll be sure to come back soon for a visit, Pops. I promise."

... Day 194 ...

Twilight Town

...After many days of no contact, Riku had finally returned.

"I wasn't sure I'd see you again." Naminé honestly confessed over the table.

"You made me a promise," Riku stated.

"To look after Sora, I remember," Naminé confirmed with a small smile, happy to see Riku again after their last parting. But she was soon saddened and put her hand down in disappointment in her inability to give her end of the promise. "I'm sorry... I'm not sure I've kept that promise very well."

"What happened?" Riku asked, holding no judgment in his voice or heart.

"Some of Sora's memories are missing."

"How can that be?"

"They're escaping through Sora's Nobody into a third person-" Naminé stopped, not knowing how to truly address Xion without offending her. She decided just to power through and continue on with her explanation, "and now they're starting to become a part of her."

"..." Riku lowered his head, already understanding what such actions would mean for the third person and to Sora. One of the same exact memories cannot be shared between two people without it destroying one of them. This was tricky business. Sora may be sleeping through all this, but the other person was most likely riving in mind-crushing pain. "You can't get the memories back out?"

"..." Naminé shook her head before explaining, looking down at her drawing of three Nobodies standing together. One of them resembling the girl Riku bump into a few times before. "If they're still separate...then yes, I think so. But if they join with her memories, things get a lot more complicated. I would need to untangle her memory before I could finish Sora's... What was supposed to take months might take years. DiZ would be furious."

"So what's the solution?"

"If I try to just jump in and rearrange her memory... ...then I risk Sora waking up to find out that nobody remembers him anymore. I can't do that to him." Riku was processing the true meaning of her words as he lowered his head in thought while she continued. "It's too late either way. His awakening will have to be delayed.

"I never imagined Sora's Nobody and the other one would fight so hard to be their own people." Naminé said with admiration before stating the true crushing reality of their situation in sadness. "Unfortunately, the only real solution... is for them both to go away."

"..."

"Did you know her face was blank at first? Only now can you see someone. That proves some of Sora's memories are inside her. Some inside her, some inside Sora... others inside Sora's Nobody... I can't sort it out anymore. All I can do is pick up the pieces once what has to be done, is done."

"..." Riku understood what had to be done but... he didn't like it. "All right, then."

... Day 195 ...

Radiant Garden

After finally making amends with Naminé and closing the rift built between them, Riku returns to Radiant Gardens to discuss what he's found out so far with his mother. And maybe, get some much needed rest.

"Riku? Where have you been? If it weren't for the consistent Sense of your heart still out there I would be worried sick. You have so much homework to make-up for, young man." Aeris demanded in lecture and worry, jumping up from her chair as he entered the Livingroom, dropping the book that she had been reading.

Well, maybe not so much of the rest part.

"Neverland?"

"Oh well that explains things." Aeris sighed in relief, taking her seat again.

"?"

"How long where you there. Wait, never mind, that doesn't matter. Time is irrelevant there."

"How did you-"

"Know? It's not the first time the Heartless Resistance had to deal with Neverland. It seems like a great place for lost children, especially boys, but all in all it's a place where it's hard not to have fun. Coming back to regular time-flow from there is always a trip." She answered, gesturing for him to take a seat on the couch next to her, which he complied.

"Wait, how long have I been gone?" Riku asked in confusion. "I only stayed there for 3 days."

"Oh Riku, it's been 20 days." Aeris said to her son in sympathy.

"What?! I was at Neverland for 17 days?!"

"Oh? Did you make a few stops along the way?"

"Uh, yeah- while I was at Neverland, I was opened up to the realization that I was running away from my reality. That I kept on running away from the consequences of my actions and if I don't turn back and face what I have done I'll never be truly free. So I... faced all my fears and went home to Destiny Islands."

"!?" Aeris gasped before she calmed herself. "Oh, I see... And what did you find there?"

"Everything stayed right where I left it before Destiny Islands was consumed by Darkness. It all felt the same, but there was still changes. No one there remembers Sora. It's sort of heartbreaking..."

"It is, but still not so surprising. If I understand correctly, isn't Naminé still working on restoring Sora's memories along with everyone around him. It's understandable that not everyone has gotten all their memories about him back."

"Yeah, I went to go see Naminé afterwards to discuss that. She says his memories are escaping his Nobody's into a third person. Which makes things a lot more complicated than before." He had already figured that out a while back, he just didn't know how serious this would effect Sora's recovery process. He would more than likely have to take action soon.

"Ahh, I see you've made up with Naminé. That's good." Aeris smiled in soft happiness.

"Wha?"

"Don't try to hide it from me. I've been feeling the strain and frustration in your heart around her for a while. Feelings a betrayal around you, and even if she won't admit it, feelings of guilt from her."

"A Nobody can't feel emotions, they don't have a heart."

"That is a false accusation spread to possibly suppress their potential." Aeris corrected him before going into lecture mode. "Nobodies are the husk remains of their original self. With enough will and memories of 'themselves' they could possibly regain their heart back."

"What?" Riku couldn't believe it. "If that's really true then- why are there so many formless Nobodies? Who would want to lie about them never being able to have a heart? Why go through all this trouble?"

"It's only a theory, based on visual facts alone. But I have a feeling in my heart that my hunches are correct. Usually when a world is consumed by Darkness, only the beings with a strong heart can hold on to their form while the rest fade into the darkness and slumber. The same rules apply for Nobodies. " Aeris explained. "As for your other question, there are many possibilities as to why lie to Nobodies about their hearts. Either to block away the guilt when destroying them, or to make it easier to control them as a mass."

"What do you mean?"

"Think about it. A life without your heart is hard and hollow." Aeris said, placing a finger over Riku's heart to drive the meaning. "It's like a hole in your chest that no matter what you do you can't seem to fill. Something is missing and it itches you like a hunger that never goes away. You'd do anything to make that go away. And if someone were to tell you that you can't make it go away you'd be devastated and probably lose all hope. But- if they were to say they have a way to give you your heart back and make the hollowness go away, you'd follow them wouldn't you? You'd do whatever they say in order to make the hunger go away."

"I- yeah- I guess I would in that scenario." Riku honestly admitted as she moved her finger away and returned her hand back onto her lap. "Do you think that's how whoever the leader of Organization XIII is controlling them?"

"Probably, it's hard to keep all those numbers of Nobodies in order without a common interest."

"But... what is it that they're truly after?"

"Honestly, I don't know. But based off of what you said happened in Castle Oblivion is must have something to do with the Keyblade."

"But why? What purpose do they want the Keyblade for?"

"I don't know. We'll have to find the answers ourselves, in time." Aeris replied before changing the subject. "But anyway, that's not the only thing that's concerning you. What seems to be on your mind, Riku?"

"Hm? You can tell?"

"Your heart makes it hard to ignore." Aeris tried to hold back a giggle as Riku tried his best to stop from blushing at being caught. But she soon eased herself and smiled with support. "So, what is troubling you, Riku?"

"It's just- back on Destiny Islands, I got to see my Dad again." Riku began to explain, struggling with his words as his fists began to clinch on his lap as he looked down. "I told him everything I had done and I apologized to him about what happened when the Islands fell into Darkness. He said there was no need to apologize and that there was nothing that I could have done to stop the darkness from consuming the Islands. He was just glad that I was okay and said not to worry about it since Destiny Islands was back and everything was back to normal."

"He's right, you know. There's no need for you to keep beating yourself up about it."

"Yeah, but, that leads to other questions." Riku looked up to his mother with questions in his eyes. "Sure, Destiny Islands was consumed by Darkness, and there was nothing I could have done to stop it. But the Darkness could have only come in when the Door to the world's heart was open. But it had been sealed shut for years since I have lived on those islands. So that leaves one unanswered question. Who opened the Door?"

"?!" Aeris eyes widened in realization. Why had she never asked the same question before? With all the things that have been going on it must have slipped passed her. But still, it was a major issue that should have never been ignored. Someone strong enough to unlock the seal, let alone see the Door, had opened the Door to a world's heart and let the Heartless in. Someone who has avoided their radar for so long with no clear identity and was still out there. The thought... it frightened her. "I... I don't know."

"So what do we do now?" Riku asked, saddened to have worried his mother so much but still in need of guidance. She was one of the most cool-headed and kind hearted people he's ever know. If anyone can find the next course of action in this situation, its her.

"For now, let's focus on what we do know and go from there. We need to restore Sora's memories to wake him as quickly as possible. Something tells me that we'll be needing the Keyblade on our side soon." Aeris answered, pulling herself together.

"Hm, you're right." Riku nodded in agreement with his mother. "We'll need the Keyblade to help us face whatever is heading our way. Whether its the Nobodies or a Mysterious Party. Something tells me neither is up to any good. Man, (Sigh), things are going to get tougher for us in the future."

"(Giggle) Since when have we ever settled for the easy route."

"Heh, you're right, things are boring with the easy solution."

Suddenly the town's siren alarms went off.

"!" "(Gasp)!"

"What's that?!"

"The town is under attack!" Aeris answered, already summoning her Princess Guard for battle. "Quickly, we must head to the others!"

"Okay!"

They ran through the Borough all the way to Merlin's House, where the others were gathered in the back with the equipment.

"Cid, what's happening?" Aeris asked, nearly demanding answers.

"Neo Heartless are attacking the town gate." Cid informed, pinpointing them on his radar to get his Anti-Heartless defense system ready to lock-on and dispose the threat. "But there's too many of the buggers in one place and one focus of attack for this to be a coincident. This is probably a led attack."

"?!"

"Where are they attacking from?" Riku asked.

"The Castle Gate, they're heading in from the Great Maw."

"I'm on it."

"Riku, wait." Aeris called out to him, but he was already out the door.

Heading towards the Castle Gate where he pushed the Heartless' Force back from Ravine Trail with Soul Eater. He had made a dent in their numbers all the way to The Great Maw. But Cid was right, the Heartless were surprising tactical, attacking Riku in groups and trying to pincer him in on multiple sides. But Riku was no fool, and wouldn't allow himself to be cornered in. The path he cut to The Great Maw had gave him a small sweat, but not enough to exhaust him.

"We know you've been practicing with the Darkness, little brother." Riku heard Yazoo from a cliff above him as Kadaj and Loz chuckled beside Yazoo with Kadaj in the middle. "Your skill has been improving."

"Tch, are you guys the ones controlling the Heartless?" Riku grunted on guard, ready for a fight.

"Heh, only a little." Yazoo calmly answered as if it was no big deal, crossing his arms over his chest.

"We just felt that you had return and thought that it would be fun to play." Loz said with subtle excitement and a twinkle in his eyes.

"So you attack the town with Heartless with the likely possibility of harming a lot of people just for the fun of it?!"

"What does it matter if we squash a few bugs along the way." Kadaj shrugged Riku's complaint as if it was no concern to him. "Our only concern is to set our little brother on the right path. Whatever means necessary."

"Come on, little brother, let's play." Beckoned Loz, ignoring the frustration in Riku at the lack of empathy from his older brothers.

"Tch, so whatever means to get my attention." Riku gritted through his teeth, his fists clenched in rage and subtle hurt. "Fine. I'll play your game!"

Summoning Soul Eater he leaped up at them. Laughing and chuckling with glee that he would play along, they jumped down to meet him halfway with their own weapons.

Riku quickly had to dodge as Yazoo's foot as he came in with the first strike kicking, only to flip back as Loz jumped in with his fist. His strikes were slow but powerful, one solid hit from his Dual Hound knuckles and Riku would be riving in electricity.

"Boom, Boom, Boom, Pow!" Loz would say playfully as he laughed while punching at Riku. The weapons on his fist buzzing with Thunder Magic. Riku was doing fine dodging Loz's strikes, even pushing Loz back with his own, but he wasn't prepared for Yazoo to come back from the side with a down kick.

"!" Unable to Dash in time with Loz too close on his other side, Riku was forced to block with his Key Blade. The force from Yazoo's kick was much stronger than he expected as it knocked him off his feet and slid back for a yard or two. But he had no time to stay down, all three of them were coming, he had to get up and fight. "Tch, when are you guys going to call it a quits?! Aren't you tired of this?!"

"What? Tired already?" Loz said with mockery in his monotone voice. "Just as soon as you give in to your darkness that will be the end of all this."

"I will never let the darkness consume me again." Riku growled back, bracing for a fight.

"Hmph, then, this will continue for as long as it takes." Yazoo smirked as Loz jumped in from behind him to charge head on at Riku, going straight for the face.

"Agh, what's so good about the darkness anyway?!" Riku grunt as he struck back. He struck and dodged Loz like a dance that somehow ended holding back both of Loz's fist with his hands. He braced himself for Thunder shock, but was caught off guard when nothing came. "!"

"Hehe," Loz grinned as he took advantage of Riku's one moment of dropping his guard, gripping down hard on one of Riku's wrist he started tossing Riku around and banging him on the ground like a rag doll. After smacking him around for a bit he tossed Riku away, whom had amazingly landed on his feet and wiped the dirt off his cheek.

"Then forget about the Town! If your business is with me then leave Radiant Garden out of this."

"All we want is for you to behave, Little Brother." Yazoo huffed as he jumped into the fray again. It was the closest he's ever sound to angry in Riku's experience. He hasn't pulled out his Velvet Nightmare yet so that was a good sign. But even without his weapon, Yazoo was still a challenge to be reckoned with at hand-to-hand combat. "If it takes a few bugs being squashed to get you to comply than we'll just have to get our boots dirty."

"Tch. You monsters..." Riku hissed with disgust in is voice, only to be struck with alarm and pain as a Dark Thundara struck him from the back. Out of all the fray going on with Loz and Yazoo, he had forgotten about Kadaj. "Gh!"

The blow had brought him down to one knee as smoke rose from his back from the blow.

"Hn, don't worry, he just doesn't know any better yet." Kadaj said as he circled around to join the other two as Loz approached closer.

"Mother will know. When we take you to her, Mother will decide what's best for you." Loz explained with subtle excitement before stopping in front of Riku. "Now, are you ready to come home or do you want to play some more?"

"Tch, Mother-smother, you don't even know who your mother even is." Riku grumbled as he dust himself off, getting on his feet again. He was mumbling to himself, but his brothers heard him loud and clear. And his words stung something strange.

"!" Kadaj hissed at Riku and his hand reached for his Souba on instinct.

"Hey!" Loz whined out angrily.

"I will not have you refer to our Mother that way." Riku had to take back what he said early, 'this' was the angriest he has ever seen Yazoo come close to.

"You meanie!" Loz whimper with the trace of tears in the corner of his eyes. Riku had only been talking to himself in frustration, he had not meant for the others to hear him let alone hurt their feelings.

"Sorry," Riku apologized sincerely. "Our Mom is the best. But you guys probably don't know who I'm referring to."

But with that last sentence, Riku had Dashed at them to get the First Strike. If they wanted to fight him so bad, he'd just get it over with.

Unannounced to the boys, they had some company coming. Aeris had rushed to The Great Maw to help her son against the hordes after securing the town from the Heartless. Leon and Yuffie had joined her as back up. In all the clutter of Darkness, she could not properly Sense her son. But she knew that where the Darkness cluttered Riku was likely there and followed it. When she got there she was expecting to see Riku fighting among the hordes, but what she wasn't expecting to see the other three.

"(Gasp)!" As if her heart froze in time, Aeris gasped in disbelief at what she was seeing. The Heartless had been cleared out, what seemed to be all that was left was her four boys fighting to the death with blades, pistols, and electric brass knuckles. Her heart was overflowing with joy at finally seeing all of her boys again, but it had turned cold with fear at seeing them fight like this. Her body was shaking with emotions as she could only choke out a few words, weakly. "My sons..."

They must not have heard her, or were too focused on their fight, cause none of them paused to pay her attention. She couldn't bear to see her babies fight like this.

"Stop it, all of you are brothers." She pleaded with them as she slowly got her voice back. But it was still too weak, they could not hear her. Concerned and enraged at their behavior, her voice became stronger and commanding. "I Said Stop!"

"!" All four of their eyes widened in alarm as a Blizzard was fired between them, breaking up the fight and pushing them all back in opposite sides to miss it. Riku instantly recognizing the voice, obeyed its command, and halted any actions of continuing combat. The other three had stopped in quiet startle. They most certainly weren't expecting to be interrupted by a third party, and they most certainly weren't expecting the uncomfortable pinch in their chests at the sound of the unknown voice. It was soft and strangely soothing, but at the same time somewhat familiar. It was strange, Kadaj, Loz, and Yazoo don't recall ever hearing this voice before but somehow they knew that they know it, and it caused them pain inside not being able to remember why.

The three of them looked up from their pain, to see where the voice was coming from. They had seen Leon, with no real interest than possibly a good challenge in the future. Then turned to Yuffie, whom seemed oddly familiar to them, especially Yazoo. And then they saw her...

That hair- Those green eyes... I-It felt like they knew her...

"Get back inside, boys."

"Gh, Is that... I- I know you..." Kadaj said, her presence brought out a haze of a memory where he couldn't fully grasp the clarity of. But in the haze he can see in the fuzziness the back of her pink sundress as she stood strong, protecting them from something. But he can't remember from what.

"I don't... I don't understand this." Yazoo took a step back as memories came back to him in a rush of haze that he couldn't make any sense of.

"Please boys, it's our only chance! Just follow my voice to me!"

"Who are you?" For once in his life, Yazoo was frightened by someone other than big brother Sephiroth. But at the same time... he was frightened because there was something more to this that intrigued him.

"Yazoo, Kadaj," Loz called out as he was flooded with emotions and memories that he didn't understand. "I don't like this. My chest hurts..."

"Come on, boys, you can make it!"

"Loz, it's me. Do you recognize me Kadaj, Yazoo?" Aeris asked with a plead that they did remember her. She slowly approached them so as not to startle them.

"I don't..." Kadaj wanted to say that he didn't know her, but something inside him told him that he did and wouldn't let him say the words.

"Don't worry boys, everything's going to be okay."

"!" All three of them flinch as their eyes widened as a flicker of a memory that frightened them.

"We have to go."

"Kadaj?" Loz looked to his brother as he backed away.

"Now!"

"Hm," Yazoo didn't even question Kadaj's sudden flight as he wanted to get out of their just as badly. Loz followed not too fall behind as they leaped away to the top of the cliff side.

"Boys? Boys, wait!" She called out to them but they wouldn't listen, with a clench in their chest they opened up a Dark Corridor at a safe distance away from the others to escape. "Please..."

"..." They paused for a second, even looked back. But still, they fled.

"..." Aeris fell to her knees as her lost boys escaped from her sight as her eyes watered. The tears close to bursting out. "...Don't go..."

... Day 196 ...

Riku had stayed another day in Radiant Garden to make sure that the town was safe from another attack from a Heartless army, just in case there were stragglers that didn't retreat with his brothers. But more importantly... he wanted to make sure that his mother was okay.

Because clearly... she wasn't.

"..." She hasn't said a word since the incident at the Great Maw. She wasn't eating either, she was just lying down barely moving around. It worried Riku. He did whatever he could to make her feel better. He made her a sandwich so she'd at least have something light in her stomach, but she just left the plate untouched on the coffee table as she lied on the couch with her back turned towards him. He even silently stayed by her side in the Livingroom and caught up with his homework and studies to make her happy. But it didn't seem to be working. It was a long day of silence. "Mom... are you okay."

"No, Riku..."

"Is there anything I can do?"

"No... I'll be alright, don't worry. I just... need some time."

"Please, don't let them upset you, Mother. It's the darkness' fault, they just don't remember you."

"That's what hurts the most."

"It'll come back. Once we get them out of the influence of the darkness, their memories will start to clarify and return."

"I know you're right. Still... this is all so sad. But, not as sad as it should be..."

"What do you mean?"

"... The chance to see my children grow up was stolen from me."

"!"

"But, at least I got to see them all again... Will the World fault me for wishing for more?"

"..." 'No, Mom, you deserve so much more. And I'm going to make sure you get your wish.'

... Day 197 ...

Destiny Islands

Riku had return to the peaceful world that he had for a long time called home to take a moment for himself. With all the things that were happening in his life all at once, the peace and quiet of Destiny Islands could do him some good.

This world was quiet, but not the least bit silent. The cool winds would brush the sea salt in the breeze, the waves of the ocean would gently roar on the island shore, and the seagulls would sing their song as they soared in the twilight sky.

Riku had come early to take a break from it all and spend some time with his pops, but... this was also an opportune moment to stake out for the Organization XIII members that kept frequenting Destiny Islands. He had even walked along his old hang out island, happy to see that it hadn't really changed. Same shore, same trees, same hideout. Even the large tree in the center of it all was looking as grand as ever. The only pleasant surprising change was the Hundred Acre Wood's page hiding between the Paopu Tree's trunks. It must have been drawn all the way here from Sora's reminiscing light, as if trying to find an old friend. It did Riku good to finally find the last page, now that the Hundred Acre Wood's memories can return than perhaps Sora's can return just as well. But for now Sora's memories would still need some work, and they had some ways to go. Riku had to stay out of sight from the other kids that would visit their usual hangout island, but he was happy to see that they were doing well, especially Kairi. He would have loved to go down and talk to them again like old times, see how things were going for them. But... he knew that it wasn't his time to see his old friends again, not until he settled his business, not until he brought Sora home...

And so he waited, until the other kids left for the main island, until the sun was setting. But no one came.

… Day 198 ...

Neverland

A band of Heartless pirates stormed the island in a mindless attempt to look for treasure. They would show no quarter to those in their path. Unfortunately for them, they didn't expect the Lost Boys to disagree with their intrusion, let alone put up a fight.

"BANGARRAAAANNGG!" Cried out Slightly, railing his Lost Boys.

"BANGARANG!" All the Lost Boys responded, including Riku, pulling out the weapons. Whether they be sticks for clubs, rock on stick maces, or even Soul Eater, all the Lost Boys were armed to the teeth and ready for a brawl. Even Tinker Bell was ready to kick some faces. All of them rushed in to the fray. Which, Riku found it strange to admit, was oddly fun.

… Day 205 …

Destiny Islands

Yet another quiet day with no signs of the Organization XIII members. But it was still a lovely day...

… Day 206 ...

Neverland

Riku had return to Neverland to check in on the Lost Boys and Hook, but all seemed to be quiet. He had joined the boys on a patrol around the island and a few games. As the day seemed to fly by he even joined them for dinner. Even so, no matter how many times Riku stayed on Neverland, he'd never be use to Neverland's food.

It was always so colorful, and odd...

He was literally watching the boys eating patties made from a rainbow before looking back down questionably at the burger gracing his plate. Accompanied by red potato chips with a shinning tip on the side and a drink that had mist coming from it.

"Eat up, Riku." Insisted Nibs while taking breaks in his bites.

"Yeah! Each color has a different flavor of sweet and savory, it's really good!" Added in Slightly, still chewing as he talked.

"..." Riku hesitantly took a bite of his burger, the patty bursting with all different flavors in his mouth all at once. It was like strawberries, grapes, beef, cheese, kiwis, and orange chicken was having a battle in his mouth and none of the sides were winning. Riku couldn't understand how could something be so good and yet unbearable at the same time. The greatest battle and disappoint was finishing the patty. Moving over to the next thing on his plate, he took a potato chip which he had learned was a weird fusion of a tomato and a potato after a taste test and dunk his second taste chip in the shining dip. It was oddly warm on his taste buds but cool to the touch, but all-in-all still pleasant.

"Yo, you're eating Sun dip right now." Cubby explained to him, happy to see that Riku liked it.

"Now try drinking the Fog." Insisted Slightly, "It's like (Mwah)."

"Is that what this is?" Riku quirk an eye at the idea that they had somehow squeezed Fog into a cup.

"Yeah, it's like a level up from Soda Pop." Explained the Twins.

"..."

'Go ahead and try it, you'll like it.' Encouraged Tootles on paper.

"Alright, bottoms up." Riku took a quick swig so he would loose his nerves. But he was startled with the epiphany that they were right. "!"

'How is it?'

"Bangarang." Riku compliment, oddly having to wipe off the drink mustache above his lip. He was going in for another sip when Tinker Bell flew in from below and tip his cup higher making him spill his drink all over his face. "!"

The other boys laughed along with Tinks laughing chimes, Riku couldn't help but lightly chuckle with them too. It was good to see that Tink was getting comfortable with him enough to joke around with him. But he couldn't have the others laughing at his expense for too long without reciprocation.

"Hey Cubby, catch!" Riku said in heads up before throwing a pie that landed a bullseye on his face. Cherries and Crème running down Cubby face as he gasped in shock. Slightly laughing louder at him, which Cubby responded in kind.

"Oh Slightly," Cubby chimed out, waiting for Slightly to turn to him before throwing a handful of Sun dip at him, landing right on the face.

"Bangarang!" Someone shouted out, before began flinging around in a food fight, a few drops landing right on Tinker Bells as her laughing chimes joined in with the boys.

… Day 213 ...

Destiny Islands

Another peaceful day and still a no show. Well, there was always another day, and at least he wasn't alone. Riku and his Pops watched the sunset together on their fishing boat, enjoying a stick of ice cream as the day began to cool down for the night...

… Day 214 ...

Neverland

Riku had been patrolling the main island with the Lost Boys when they had decided to break into four separate teams again so they could cover all four directions at once. Leaving Riku alone with the one person he had least expected... Tink. She had decided to go with him, circling around his head when the others where deciding teams. Riku was surprised that she would willing decide to team up with him like this. But it seems that the distrust and animosity that she had previously had felt for him was fading away, which had put a light in heart and a slight joy in his step.

They had walked together in comfortable silent for a time before Riku noticed that her wings were slowing down in their flutter and she was starting to drop down.

"You can ride on my shoulder if you're tired."

"(Chime, chime)," Tinker Bell shook her head, but push a little more force in her wings as she rose higher again and took a stand on Riku's head. Kicking his hood off and getting comfortable on his head as she maneuvered his hair for a cushion as she sat cross-legged.

"Heh, that'll work."

... Day 224 ...

Twilight Town

Riku had return to Twilight Town at the silent call from DiZ's heart that requested his presence. DiZ had wanted to discuss the continued delay of Sora's awakening and the possible solutions required to speed up the process. They had walked down to the basement to discuss things with Naminé as well. She seemed to spend more time down there frequently with Sora, more than likely to better influence Sora's memory recovery DiZ assumed. Riku leaned against the wall to rest while DiZ approached her.

"You seem to be struggling." DiZ comment as he came in to check on Naminé in the chamber where Sora slept.

"A Nobody is interfering, I think." Naminé answered to the best of her ability without giving away anything.

"A Nobody?"

"I keep trying to piece his memory back together, but what if some of the pieces got lost? There would be no way for me to finish." Naminé explained with growing concern. "If that happened- and they found their way into someone else- he'd never get them back."

"Oh I think he can do without a memory or two."

"But what if he needs those memories in order to wake up? What if they're the key?"

"Naminé... You are a witch who has power over Sora's memories and those connected to him. Are you seeing something I cannot?"

"..." She looked on to Sora with concern. "If his memories becomes her memories... she will never survive it."

"She?"

"!"

"..." Riku sighed in his head. 'Looks like the cats out of the bag.'

… Day 225 ...

Destiny Islands

Riku rested his body along the Paopu Tree, leaning back on it as he watched the sunset. His mind troubled by the possible choices he will have to make in the future.

The Replica with Kairi's face was interfering with the recovery of Sora's memories unintentionally and beyond her control. The memories were destroying her, and yet she was fighting so hard to have a life of her own. Her will to live was strong enough that she was forming into her own person.

However...

She was still halting Sora's memories from returning and absorbing them into herself. It doesn't matter if she doesn't mean to do it, she is still doing it. And Riku would have to stop her one way or another. But, were his options so limited? Would he really have to destroy her to set things back in order again?

Could he even do it?

Would he want to do it?

"Is there no other solution to this?" Riku called out to the distance. The World's Heart did not answer him back...

*** Author's Notes ***

Sorry for the long break, but the new Kingdom Hearts III is coming out in January and I've got a goal. I'm super pumped to catching up the story to it's release date. So I've got to run through the remains of Kingdom Hearts 358/2, get through Kingdom Hearts II, and Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance to finally make it to the Kingdom Hearts III release date on time. That's a lot to go for, but with concrete set deadline I think I can make it. Just be a little bit more patient with me guys. We've all been waiting for it, let's make it to Kingdom Hearts III together.

And yes, this chapter is dedicated to not only to Dinsey's Peter Pan, but to Steven Spielberg's movie Hook -which was the movie that actually inspired me to play the flute- dubstep Bangarang and Ruth B's song Lost Boy -the song that brought me to tears when I first heard it. Making this chapter was fun. And hopefully, after this one, the rest of the chapters won't be as long. I can't make any promises about the Kingdom Hearts III chapters when I finally play through the game though. Thanks again for all of your patients, guys, you're the best. Wish me luck!

Lost Boys: Fox= Slightly; Rabbit= Nibs; Bear=Cubby (original name Curly); Raccoons= Twins, no real name; Skunk= Tootles, he's mute

Timeline for Kingdom Hearts 358/2 and this story... continued: There is a big time jump from day 177 to 193 after Roxas does some simple missions of taking out a Dual Blade Heartless at Halloween Town on day 175 and doing Hearts Collecting mission with Luxord in Wonderland on day 176. During this time jump, Sora's memories start to come back to Xion about his first incident at Hallow Bastion. She wakes up after 20 days of sleep, noticing Roxas there by her side and how he had left a seashell by her bed every day each time he visited, feeling energetic she decides to join Roxas on his mission to get out and move some. Saïx tries to keep her in the castle, but Axel assures that he'll keep an eye on her. All three of them head to Twilight Town to fight a Heat Saber Heartless. However, Xion goes unconscious as Sora's memories start to come back to her again, memories of back when his Islands is consumed by darkness. Axel looks after her while Roxas took care of the Heartless. She had to be carried back to the castle. At this point, Axel admits that Roxas and Xion are his best friends. Elsewhere, Naminé draws Roxas, Xion, and Axel together as she continues piecing back Sora's memories. On the next day, 194, Roxas goes back with Luxord to Wonderland where they follow after the White Rabbit. He leads them to the Queen of Hearts, who is having him look around the world for the trio that startled her which turned out to be the Commander Heartless they were looking for. Meanwhile, Axel is doing research of his own, reading Vexen's report about 'The Truth of Naminé'. On Day 195 Axel and Roxas go to Neverland. Hook and Smee are still looking for treasure but all they come up with are Heartless. Hook gets so mad that he goes back to his ship and fires cannons. Roxas and Axel bump into Tinker Bell, who is still mad at Roxas for not following her. (I think Neverland's Time Flow still flows chaotically as it does in the story, so days between visits from Roxas may have just been hours for Tinker Bell). Even so, she still gives him Pixie Dust so they both can fly. Again, they do the mission first instead of following her, taking care of the Artful Flyer Heartless. Roxas felt bad about not following her again, but Axel assures him that with all that cannon fire they weren't getting near that ship anyway. Pete shows up after they leave, turns out he was the one that planted the fake Treasure Maps and the Heartless. Roxas returns to Neverland again on the next day to defeat an Avalanche Heartless before another time-skip from Day 197 to 224.

On Day 224 Roxas and Demyx go to Olympus Coliseum where Demyx ends up ditching him again. Roxas participates in the Rookie Cup to face their target but also ends up learning things of the heart like the difference in expectations and orders is faith in someone. The ability to believe in them. Turns out Xigbar had entered the tournament to test out Roxas' potential and they end up fighting in the Finals. But part way through the target Heartless shows up and Roxas takes care of the Guard Armor and heads back before Phil shows up with Hercules to help. And this is when Phil finally figures out he's been training the wrong guy. When Roxas goes to Twilight Town's Train Station Tower to have some ice-cream with his friends Xion nearly faints off the Station Tower and Roxas has to grab her. After they make sure that she's okay, Axel decides that the next time they get the day off they should go to the beach (probably safer for Xion). On Day 225 Roxas goes to Halloween Town to take care of a Carrier Ghost Heartless. Dr. Finklestein has completed the final part Jack was asking for and Roxas chases the three Trick or Treaters after being pranked again. He chases them to their secret hiding spot only to bump into his target. He was going to head back after that when a mysterious enemy (Tentaclaw) attacked him. Later that same day, it turns out Xion is doing some research of her own. And that is where this chapter has ended. The rest of the story will continue onto the next chapter.