Kingdom Hearts: The Brother Chronicles

by Sir.nick of dragons

A new evil has arisen. Now it is up to the sons of Sora and Riku to save the day from this new evil. New Disney worlds and as many twist as I can fit. Long and detailed chapters. Who could ask for more.

11. Chapter 11

Disclaimer- I do not own Kingdom Hearts or any of the Disney worlds in this story or anything except my characters, monsters, some Keyblades, and this plot. They belong to their respected owners and I respect their works. Also this is my first fanfic, so please take it easy on me. Also I have not yet played KH3.

I hope you guys are ready to fly, because it is time to race the wind and take to the sky. Now don't sleep or risk being moon blinked. Also I must apologize for the wait, but I think the amount of story may make up for that (I hope).

Chapter 11: The Owl Kingdoms

The group had just came out from another blockade and got their first look at the new world that awaited them. Most of the world was covered in forests but there was also a desert, a grassland, frozen lands, canyons, lands that were a combination of fire and ice, and inland sea that had a lot of mist covering it, and a large sea surrounding it and covered in mist. The group then landed near a forest of fir trees. Then something odd happened, as their armor dispersed, they felt a change happen. They then looked down and at each other and saw that they had become owls. Balin had become a Barn owl and still had his Kingdom Hearts sigil necklace, and his armor piece was now where his left wing attached to his torso. Alanine had become a black Barn owl (and yes they do exist) and still had his wrist bands, but they were now on his legs. His armor piece was now where his right wing attached to his torso. Both of them retained their blue eyes and the feathers on their heads resembeld that of their hair. Max had become a Tasmanian Masked owl.

"We're owls. Why are we owls?", asked Max.

"Well last night, we had a dream with our friends Sora and Kairi were lions when they were in a certain world. So maybe the inhabitants of this world are owls, so the magic of this world turned us into owls when we landed.", answered Alanine. Just then three white owls with red markings swoped out of nowhere and snached them up.

"What are you doing?", asked Balin.

"Shut your beak or I'll shut it for you. No whos, no whats, no whys, no questions. You three will see soon enough.", ordered one of the owls holding them. Max then bit the talons of the owl holding him to get him to let go. He then tried to fly, but only succeeded in falling. The owl he bit then swooped down and caught him before he hit the ground. The group then remained silent for sometime as the scenery below them changed to canyonlands. Their captors then joined a large group of owls that were also carrying young owls in their talons. Next to them where two owls called Jatt and Jutt that were carrying a couple of Barn owls and another that was called Grimble that was carrying a tiny Elf owl.

"I'm so sorry. I'm Soren. Are you an Elf owl?", said the Barn next to them.

"From the Desert of Kuneer. My name is Gylfie. Are you a Tyto?"(also she is how she is in the movie because i honestly liked that design better.), responded the Elf owl.

"Yes, from the Forest Kingdom of Tyto.", answered Soren.

"My name is Balin and this is Alanine and Max. Do you two have any idea what they are going to do to us?", said Balin.

"Put a mouse in it. All of you. (Put a mouse in it is the owl expression for shut up)", said the owl holding Balin. The group then flew sharply down and threw a rock formation that looked like the head of a Great Horned owl. They then threw the young owls on a near by stone platform.

"Gylfie, Balin, Alanine, Max. stay close to me", said Soren. Then the Boreal owl, Grimble, started talking.

"Your parents and families have abandoned you. From now on, you will be classified as orphans. Terribly tragic, I know. But by the mercy of Glaux, (Glaux is the owl god) you have been rescued and brought to St. Aegolius. You will repay that kindness with labor. Some will be pickers, some will be solders. In all ways, all will survive the High Tyto on the Pure Ones.", announced Grimble. Then all the young owls started shouting and saying that they will not serve the Pure Ones. Just then came two Pure Ones solders, followed by a large, beautiful, white Barn owl with red markings and colorful eyes. She looked as if the moon had come down to the earth. As she flew by, Balin and Alanine could feel a strong pulse of darkness coming from her. She then landed and began to speak.

"I am Nyra, Alba General of St. Aegolius and mate to the Lord High Tyto. I know that many of you are missing your families, but in time you will see that the Pure Ones your new family.", said the white Barn owl.

"The Pure Ones are not our family! Let us go!", yelled Gylfie. Then Nyra flew down from her perch and landed in front of Gylfie. Soren then put a protective wing over Gylfie.

"Don't waist your time Tyto. Don't soil your feathers.", said Nyra.

"You leaver her be.", said Soren in a defiant tone.

"And that goes double for me.", said Balin as he summoned his Keyblade in his talons.

"And triple for me.", said Alanine as he did the same.

"I'm with them.", said Max as summoned his Lanceshield.

"So you're the three he spoke of. Are you sure that you wouldn't rather put down your weapons and join me?", said Nyra as she stealthily threw some darkness at the three. The darkness dissipated when it made contact with Balin and Alanine, but went into Max. Max's eyes then dimmed and he unsummoned his Lanceshield.

"We will never join you!", yelled Balin, Alanine, and Soren.

"Spirited little Tytos, how touching. Very well, you three and your patch of felt will stay together, as Pickers. Maybe when you three remember your nobility, we can make soldiers of you." Then several Pure One soldiers came and surrounded the group. Balin and Alanine tried to use their Keyblades to fight them off, but without being able to fly and being on one leg, they were no match for the soldiers and were quickly subdued. They then started pushing them away.

"Wait, what about my brother?!", yelled Soren.

"Max!", yelled Balin and Alanine.

"Kludd!", yelled Soren.

"Owlet, this one says that you're his brother. Do you wish to join him?", said Nyra. Kludd just bowed his and didn't say anything. "What of you Max, do you wish to join them?"

"No, Mistress Nyra.", answered Max. The Pure Ones then took Soren, Balin, Alanine, and Gylfie away.

"Now there's a couple of soldiers.", said Nyra. Meanwhile, our group were being lead down a tunnel.

"Thank you, all three of you.", whispered Gylfie. "You three don't have to do this for me."

"It's the right thing to do. There's no way we'd join those owls. But what I want to know is why did Max? One moment he was with us and then… Nyra! She must have done something to him.", said Alanine.

"Just wait until I get my talons on her. I'll….", started Balin but was interrupted by an owl with a basket on his back bumping into him. "Hey, what's his problem?"

"He looks as if he's been moon blin…", started Gylfie before she got cut off by Jatt and Jutt talking.

"No lagging off.", ordered Jutt. Just then they entered a large cavern that was bathed in the light of the full moon.

"All right my lovely little owlets, we want you to… What was it again, Jutt?", said Jatt.

"To rest." whispered Jutt.

"To rest." said Jatt.

" Wings down and turn your beaks to the glorious full moon…", said Jutt.

"And sleep.", said Jatt and Jutt at the same time. They then began moving away.

"Guys, we mustn't fall asleep. I think they are trying to moon blink us.", said Gylfie.

"Moon blink us?", asked Soren, Balin, and Alanine.

"Sometimes in the desert, owls would get exhausted and fall asleep under the light of the full moon. And when they woke up, they just weren't the same. As if they had forgotten who they were.", explained Gylfie.

"We have to get out of here and we are going to get out of here.", said Balin. Gylfie then looked up at the stars in the sky.

"I know these stars. I could get us away, but the only way out is to fly and we can't.", responded Gylfie.

"Not yet we can't, but we are going to learn how. Every time they're not watching, every time we get the chance, we are going to stretch out our wings." said Soren with a passion. Just then Grimble came by on his route, and they quickly closed their eyes and pretended to be asleep until he passed.

"Do you really think we can do it?", asked Gylfie.

"Together, we can do anything." answered Alanine.

"I'm cold." said Gylfie. Soren then put a wing around her to keep her warm.

"Together, Gylfie, together.", said Soren. A few hours later and they were still awake, but their strength was fading fast.

"Hey Soren, do you know any good stories? I think that may help us stay awake.", asked Balin.

"Good idea and yes I do know some good stories. The Battle of the Ice Claws is one of my favorites." answered Soren. He cleared his throat and began to expertly tell stories. "Years ago, in the frozen lands of the Northern Kingdoms, a great war was waged. A war between forces of good and light and forces of evil and darkness. On the side of light was a small division called Glauxspeed lead by the the noble Lyze of Kiel. On the side of darkness was an army of evil owls lead by an evil king. Lyze lead his troops fiercely, but they were vastly outnumbered. Things looked dark, but then before Lyze was an opening in the fighting strait to the leader of the evil owls. He took his chance and flew straight at the evil king, striking him down. Without a leader, the forces of evil became disorganized and easy targets for Lyze and his owls. The battle was won and the Northern Kingdoms were free once more. But some say that the evil king still lives and wears a metal mask to hide his missing beak."

"Wow Soren, you are really good.", complemented Gylfie.

"Well I have had a lot of practice with my little sister Eglantine. She's still just a little hatchling. Bearlly even yarped her first pellet. ", said Soren. "I miss her, and my Ma and Da. I wonder if I will ever find them again."

"I know that you will see them again some day. I feel it in my gizzard.", responded Gylfie.

"And we in our hearts.", said Balin and Alanine.

"I hope so, guys. I hope so.", said Soren.

"At least you still have your memories. With those, they will never truly be gone.", said Balin.

"Yeah, yeah they will.", said Soren as his spirit rose a little. "There's also another legend, stories of the Guardians of Ga'hoole. They say that in the Sea of Hoolemere, there's an island shrouded in an ancient mist that hides it from all but the true of purpose and the pure of heart. On this island, grows the Great Ga'hoole Tree, touched by the Ga (great spirit) of the first king, King Hoole. This is the home of the Guardians of Ga'hoole, noble owls that speak no words but true ones and rise each night to perform noble deeds. Each one swearing an oath to mend those who are broken, to make strong the weak, be the shield that protects the innocent, and vanquish the evil." With each word that Soren spoke, their awareness sharpened, their hearts and gizzards sturdier, and their will stronger. Soren continued to say the stories of Ga'hoole all through the night until morning came.

"Alright my little lovelies, time to get up.", said Jatt.

"Let's get going. The sooner we start the sooner we finish.", said Jutt. All the Moon Blinked owlets started to move toward them.

"Where are we going?", asked Gylfie.

"We need to act moon blinked.", replied Soren. They then started forward and pretended to be moon blinked. Soren, Balin, and Alanine were able to do a good impression, but Gylfie didn't do a very good job, but it worked. Then an owl that looked like a Spotted owl, except she was small, flew into the crowd and stopped them.

"You two will make moss tenders in the Broodatoreun.", said the owl. Then a Pure One soldier flew in.

"What are you doing Hortense?", asked the soldier.

"We need more moss tenders in the Broodatoreum and I do believe that these two will make excellent ones.", answered Hortense. Satisfied with this answer, the soldier flew back to his post. "You two, come with me." Balin and Alanine then followed through a corridor in the other direction that the main group was going.

"What about Soren and Gylfie?", asked Balin in a whisper.

"We will just have to hope that we will be able to find them later.", answered Alanine.

"And what about her?", asked Balin.

"Until we can escape, we will follow her orders.", answered Alanine. They continued to follow her through the maze of rock and stone. Elsewhere, Nyra and a group of recruits looked down into the Pelletorium. Among this group was Max and Kludd.

"Do not feel sorry for them down there. They are fortunate to be serving a high cause. One that will bring order to all the owl kingdoms. A new and noble era will dawn. Now prove your greatness and rise.", said Nyra. The recruits then began to flap their wings and rise into the air."Higher." Max and Kludd where the ones that reached the highest. "Higher!"

Through a long system of tunnels, Balin and Alanine were lead by Hortense, until they reached a small chamber up high and filled with books.

"I'm taking a big risk on you two. They will not be happy when they find out what I'm going to do to you two.", said Hortense as she stopped. Balin and Alanine tensed to counter-attack if she attacked. "I'm going to teach you two to fly." Balin and Alanine relaxed some.

"But aren't you one of them and how did you know that we weren't moon blinked?", asked Alanine.

"I could tell you weren't moon blinked because your eyes still had that light behind them. That there was still something there that I could save. As for being one of them, never.", answered Hortense.

"Then how come you're here?", asked Balin.

"You see, it's a long story.", replied Hortense.

"We've got time.", said Alanine.

"And if we don't, we'll make more.", said Balin.

"Ok, since you're so curious. Well to start off, I come from the Forest Kingdom of Ambala. There are a lot of eggsnachings there and I don't have any living family because of these monsters and no mate, due to my hatch defect of my size. I had nothing to lose by infiltrating them and with the help of my eagle contacts, I have been able to save dozens of eggs and return them to their homes.", explained Hortense. "I guess you could say that I have become addicted to saving these eggs. Streak and Zan, my contacts, have asked me several times to go with them before I get caught. But every time, I say 'just another dozen eggs'. I think that only two things will stop me: getting caught or the destruction of the Pure Ones. And well, now I'm a hero there, but that doesn't matter to me. Only doing what's right. That's really all there is to it and me." Then suddenly, they heard someone talking. "Quickly, hide!" Balin, Alanine and Hortense quickly went behind some stalagmites. Then came in Grimble, Soren, and Gylfie.

"Soren. Gylfie.", whispered Balin.

"Friends of yours?", asked Hortense.

"Yes and not moon blinked.", answered Alanine.

"You know, they wouldn't be too happy if we don't get back to the Pelletorium.", said Gylfie.

"No, they wouldn't. And they wouldn't be when they find out what I going to do to you either.", replied Grimble. Gylfie and Soren held their breath and Balin and Alanine readied to strike. "I'm going to teach you to fly."

"Fly?", asked Soren.

"You can breath now.", said Grimble as Gylfie finally let her breath out and Balin and Alanine relaxed some. "Yeah, things have been getting worse here and I promised that if anyone was smart and brave enough, I'd help them. I guess you two are it."

"But aren't you a…", asked Soren.

"Pure One? No, I hate them. Almost as much as I hate what they have turned me into. My feathers weren't always stained with these colors.", answered Grimble. "When the Pure Ones lead a raid in my kingdom, I fought back. They thought they could use that so they took my family. They promised me if I followed orders no harm would come to them and I have been doing their dirty work ever since."

"Well, well Grimble, I thought I was the only one.", said Hortense as she, Balin, and Alanine came out of hiding.

"Hortense, you too?", asked Grimble.

"Yes, but I never thought you'd become the noble type.", answered Hortense. "But now let's get to teaching." Then she and Grimble flew onto a ledge above. "Have any of you flown at all before?"

"I've been branching.", answered Soren and the others nodded their heads no.

"Well you don't have the luxury of gliding down from a nest anymore. We need to work on your power skills, starting with what you already know. Show us what you can do.", said Grimble. The group then tried to fly up to them, but had to land half way there. "Try to feel every muscle, every feather. Go as high as you can and stay there a moment and then slowly land." They tried to go high, but Gylfie looped and fell onto Balin and Alanine, knocking them off balance. Balin and Alanine had just enough room to regain control and fly up high. Meanwhile, Gylfie fell onto Soren and then to the ground. Balin and Alanine then landed.

"You ok Gylf?", asked Balin.

"I'm fine. But let's do that again.", answered Gylfie. Then all of them started laughing.

"Alright let's get back to practice.", said Hortense.

(Hours later with the moon out and back above the Pelletorium)

"Now the fittest and the brightest, I will present to the Lord High Tyto." said Nyra to her then grabbed a small blue bird out of a cage. "Now let's see how much you have improved: as flyers, as fighters." She then released the bird which flew toward the light and passed Max and Kludd. They all waited for the word to proceed. "Well?" Then it was on. Max pushed Kludd out of the way and got the lead. He then proceeded to run along a wall and fling sharp rock fragments behind him that cut Kludd's face. Kludd then used a banner to block the way of the the other two behind him before he speed up and got close to Max. Then Max stopped and Kludd knocked him out of the way and caught the bird.

"Well done. You have show exceptional obedience and discipline. My mate will be most pleased.", congratulated Nyra. Kludd then released the bird. "Tell me, does your brother have the same potential as a flyer?"

"Soren? No, he's lame.", answered Kludd.

"Oh soldier, don't confuse praise for license. Never lie to me.", replied Nyra. She then walked over to Max.

"Ba… Bal… in. Al… Ala… nine.", moaned Max. Light was shining over his heart. Nyra threw more darkness at him and the shining stopped and he got up.

"What about your former friends, are they possible soldiers?", asked Nyra.

"Their fighting skills are great, but I do not know about their flying skills, my queen.", answered Max.

"Well then, let us go and tell the three of them, what rewards there are for those who recognise their true family.", said Nyra as she motioned for Max and Kludd to follow. Then two Pure One guards joined them.

Elsewhere, Hortense, Grimble, Balin, Alanine, Soren, and Gylfie where flying around the cavern.

"Come on, you need more flap, deeper flap.", said Grimble. "Still air has no shape to it. You have to compensate with your downstroke. Make your wing tips almost meet, if you can, without stalling."

"I can't curl my feathers enough Grimble. My wings are too short.", said Gylfie.

"Compared to what they are suppose to be, my wings are short and that hasn't stopped me yet.", replied Hortense.

"And you will have to fly a long way to get to the Guardians.", said Grimble.

"The Guardians of Ga'hoole?", asked Soren. Grimble nodded his head yes. "How will we get there?"

"Well first you have to get the Sea of Hoolemer. In there is the tree…", answered Grimble.

"Shrouded in an ancient mist that hides it from all but the true of purpose and the pure of heart.", finished Soren.

"Exactly. I'd come with you but I still hold up the hope of freeing my family.", said Grimble.

"And I still need to save the eggs I can. I can't just abandon them.", said Hortense.

"Really.", said a voice. They turned around and saw Nyra, Kludd, Max, and a couple Pure One soldiers. Hortense and Grimble took up battle stances.

"What are you waiting for? Go!", said Hortense. Soren, Gylfie, Balin, and Alanine then went in the opposite direction of the Pure Ones and stopped at a ledge that was outside. The two soldiers attacked Hortense and Grimble, who then counter-attacked and made the two soldiers knock into each other and unconscious. Then Max and Nyra got into battle stances.

"Your little owlets won't get away.", said Nyra. Then she and Grimble rose into the air and clashed with their talons. Max and Hortense also rose up into the air. Max struck with his lanceshield and Hortense slipped underneath and grabbed the weapon and then used it to hit Max upside the head and knocked him out. Meanwhile, Nyra had grabbed Grimble and knocked him down to the ground, breaking his right wing. Hortense flew to his side. "You would wound your queen, Grimble."

"Your not my queen.", responded Grimble. He then knocked over a lantern, creating a wall of fire. Nyra flew over the wall and was then pinned down by Grimble and Hortense.

"Kludd, come with us.", yelled Soren.

"What are you waiting for, this is your chance to go home.", said Grimble. Kludd looked down at Nyra for a second.

"I am… I am home.", said Kludd before he distracted Grimble and Hortense. Nyra used this distraction to try to get Grimble and Hortense off by rolling. They didn't let go and all three rolled toward the ledge.

"Soren, we have to go now!", yelled Balin before he and Alanine jumped off the ledge. They quickly began flapping their wings and gained wind beneath their wings and began flying. Then falling past them was Gylfie and Soren. Then something inside them told them what they had to do to save them. They folded their wings to their sides and went into a dive. They waited until they they were below Soren and Gylfie and then pulled out of the dive. This caused an updraft that gave them just enough upward thrust to get control and begin flying.

"Go tell the Guardians!", yelled Grimble and Hortense. They looked back and saw that they were falling with Nyra and Hortense's wing was broken. Then they saw Nyra throw them off before they could not see more as our group entered a cave out. Then Balin and Alanine sensed Nyra and a couple of Pure One soldiers behind them.

"Keep going!", yelled Alanine. Then Soren saw a light.

"I see a way out!" yelled Soren.

"Where?", asked Gylfie. Just then, one of the soldiers was able to nick her. Then Soren closed his wings and squeezed through the small hole. He was closely followed by Balin, then Alanine, then lastly Gylfie. The hole was too small for the soldiers to get through. They then flew on for several hours in the cloud banks, before fatigue started to come.

"We have too keep going.", said Soren.

"I just can't Soren. I need to rest.", said the exhausted Gylfie.

"Hey guys, I think we lost them. Me and Alanine haven't sensed any evil owls for a long time.", said Balin. The group then slowed down their flight. Soren then looked to his right wing and had a realization.

"You know what I just realized? We're flying.", said Soren. This cheered all of them up as they now had realized that now they can enjoy the pleasure of flight. A detail that they had overlooked in their escape. The group then raised above the clouds and rejoiced in their new flight. "Does it feel the way you always thought it would?"

"No, it feels much better.", answered Gylfie. "So now what do we do now Soren?"

"We're going to find the Guardians of Ga'hoole.", answered Soren as they continued on with their new found energy. Meanwhile back at St. Aegolius, Nyra was having a private talk with Max and Kludd.

"Grimble and Hortense's deaths were most unfortunate, but you. You had a chance to follow your brother, but you didn't. I think you may actually deserve to stay, to be one of us.", said Nyra to Kludd.

"I want that.", replied Kludd.

"We offer power and purpose. What can you offer us? What can you offer me?", asked Nyra.

"I have a sister.", said Kludd.

"Go on.", said Nyra.

"Shes young but she's got spirit and growing into a strong Tyto.", replied Kludd.

"Perhaps you can bring her to me. Here the young ones are our future.", said Nyra. She then turned to Max. "What about you Max, do you have anyone in this world that you hold close?"

"Only those that I once called friend but now call enemy.", answered Max.

"Very well then. You will accompany Kludd and make sure that he succeeds, by any means necessary.", ordered Nyra. Max then summoned his lancesheld.

"It shall be done my queen.", replied Max. Then Max and Kludd flew out as more darkness stirred in their hearts. Meanwhile Soren, Gylfie, Balin and Alanine there flying in a light fog over a forest. Alanine heard the fluttering of a moth's wings.

"You hungry Gylf?", asked Alanine.

"Why?", asked Gylfie.

"Watch this.", said Alanine as he swooped down and caught the moth in his talons. Then a Burrowing owl appeared out of nowhere.

"Nice hunting. You should be proud of yourself, catching a moth that has already been caught.", said the owl. Then the moth escaped Alanine's talons as he stepped back. "Perfect." Then Gylfie, Soren, and Balin landed in a beam of moonlight. The owl looked their way and freaked out. "Skrooms!" The owl then quickly dug a hole and hid in it.

"Skrooms?", asked Balin.

"You don't know what Skrooms are?", asked Gylfie.

"We've never heard of them before.", answered Alanine.

"Skrooms are the spirits of owls that haven't reached Glamora, the owl heaven, due to having unfinished business on the earth. But why…. oh I see. He thinks that Soren and Balin are Skrooms.", answered Gylfie. She then walked over to the hole.

"Are they gone?", asked the owl from the hole.

"There still here, but they aren't Skrooms. They are Barn owls just like my other friend who caught your moth.", answered Gylfie.

"Hey, it wasn't his moth.", said Alanine defensively.

"Yes it was.", said the owl in the hole. The top of the owl's head was now visible. Then Soren and Balin walked up to the hole.

"Sorry for scaring you. We just need a place to hide and rest.", said Soren.

"In which order?", asked the owl.

"What difference does it make?", asked Balin.

"Huge!", said the owl as he exploded out of the hole. "If hiding is your main concern, I'd say that you're in real trouble. But if resting was on your mind, I'd say that your situation wasn't as dire. It's all on how you look at it."

"We are looking for a place that provides both, not one over the other. But the request is still the same, owl. Please, my friend here is hurt and healing her will most likely drain the last of my strength of a little bit.", replied Alanine.

"Name's Digger. This way to the hollow, follow me.", said Digger as he flew in the direction of a near by tree. Once they reached the tree they entered a very spacious hollow. Then Alanine cast Cure on Gylfie and then leaned against the wall of the hollow. "So what are your names?"

"I'm Balin."

"And I'm his brother by heart, Alanine."

"I'm Soren."

"My name is Gylfie."

"So where are you four heading?", asked Digger.

"We are going to the Sea of Hoolemer to find the Guardians.", answered Soren.

"Well you can't make a journey with an empty gizzard. Twight will be back soon with brakelight. (The owl version of dinner.)", said Digger before a large Great Gray owl came in with a copper-rose colored snake in his beak. "Twilight, we've got company." Twilight then threw the struggling copper rose colored snake down onto the ground.

"I, your great hunter, return triumphant.", said Twilight.

"Mrs. P?", said Soren to himself as he looked at the snake. "Mrs. P! I can't believe it." He then went up to the snake.

"Soren.", said the snake as she wrapped around Soren. "Every day, I've been looking for you and Kludd and then this. To be snached up by this monstrosity."

"Monstro…. Digger, who are these tiny owls and why are they talking to brakelight?", said the confused Twilight.

"My name is not brakelight.", hissed (literally) Mrs. P.

"She's not brakelight. She's my nursemaid.", said Soren.

"I hate being driven to hiss. It's unlady like.", said Mrs. P.

"Mrs. P, these are my new friends Gylfie, Digger, Balin, Alanine, and Twilight.", said Soren.

"Charmed to meet you and sorry about trying to eat you Mrs. P. I didn't even know there was such a thing as a nursemaid snake until now.", said Twilight.

"And I'm sorry for hissing at you.", said Mrs. P.

"These four are on their way to the Sea of Hoolemer to find the Guardians of the Great Tree.", said Digger.

"What?! No Soren, we need to get you home to your parents.", said Mrs. P.

"You don't understand Mrs. P, Kludd and I were snached and he is still held captive. The only ones that can save him now are the Guardians. Please don't try to stop me.", explained Soren.

"On the contrary Soren, I'm coming with you.", replied Mrs. P.

"Excuse me, but are the ones who have your brother the Pure Ones?", asked Digger.

"Yes. Why?", replied Soren.

"Then that settles it, we are coming with you.", answered Twilight. "We'll tell you later if you want. But right now, let's get going."

"What about my brother? He is still trying to recover his strength.", said Balin.

"Do you have an Ether or a Hi-ether? If he has one of those, that should allow him to get some energy back.", said Twilight. Balin then fished a Hi-ether out of the bag and handed it to Alanine. He uncorked it and drank the contents and a light blue light shimmered around him and Alanine then stood up.

"Did it work?', asked Balin. Alanine nodded his head yes. "Thanks Twilight."

"Think nothing of it. Just one of the things that I learned in the Orphan School of Tough Learning.", said Twilight.

"Orphan School of Tough Learning?", asked Alanine.

"I'll tell you later, but right now let's fly. I'll grab some food on the fly for us.", replied Twilight.

"You feel up to it bro?", asked Balin.

"I should be good as long as we don't have a run-in with Eclipsed or Pure Ones.", answered Alanine.

"Excellent, we'll follow the River Hoole to the sea. Easiest route there.", said Twilight. Then the group then flew out of the hollow with Mrs. P on Soren's back. Meanwhile, back at St. Aegolius, Nyra, Max, and Kludd were flying into the throne room with their prey, Eglantine. Before them was an immense black Barn owl with an ornate metal mask perched on the throne. Nyra flew and perched next to the owl.

"My love, our work here is nearly done and I have brought you an offering with beating heart, your new soldiers, tested and pure. One in particular, shows exceptional promise and another that knows much about the enemy that he warned us about.", said Nyra.

"I will be the judge of that. You, soldier, step forward.", ordered the owl. Kludd then stepped forward shakely. "You are right to fear my presence. What is your name soldier?" Kludd then said his name almost inaudibly. "Speak up!"

"Kludd, my name is Kludd.", said Kludd as he stopped shaking.

"That's better. Remember, weakness is for the lower species. Do you know why Kludd?", said the owl.

"Because we are Tytos.", answered Kludd.

"Very good Kludd, you will make a soldier yet. Now where is the other one?", said the owl. Then Max stepped forward.

"My name is Max, my lord.", said Max with all the confidence.

"My, my, your confidence is impressive. Tell me, Max, how do you know the Keyblade wielders?", responded the owl.

"I once called them friends and now I call them enemy.", answered Max.

"What are their names?", asked the owl.

"Bal…. Balin... and Ala… Alanine.", said Max in a slight but noticeably anguish. Nyra then threw more darkness at him.

"He still fights the darkness I see.", said the owl.

"It becomes less and less as I use His gift on him. We would have the other two if the power worked on them. But someone or something blocked it. But that just left more for him.", said Nyra.

"Well then he will remember everything. Tell me everything Max about these former friends of yours.", said the owl. Elsewhere as the sun rose, the group had just found an empty hollow to sleep the day away.

"Well this seems like a good place.", said Mrs. P. "Just needs a nursemaid's touch." She then went straight to work on it.

"While we wait, how about you tell us about the Orphan School of Tough Learning Twilight.", said Balin.

"Well it all began with my first memory. Twilight, the silvery border between night and day. A time that I can see very well when others can not. I was soon snached by a Pure One patrol and I escaped by biting his talons and landing in a soft bush and hiding. From that moment on I was an orphan and had to learn everything on my own. Well not entirely on my own, I spent time with others. Learned things from them, like how to dig from foxes and how to fly from eagles. But my best teacher was myself. Then I met Digger here and then a couple months later you four and that's my life in a nutshell.", explained Twilight. Then Digger stepped up.

"I guess it's my turn now.", said Digger. "I actually grew up with my family: my Ma, Da, and a little brother named Flick. My life was a typical Burrow Owl life, I live with them in a burrow in the Barrens and everything was alright with the world. That is, until that day that the Pure Ones found our home. They tried to take me and my brother, but my parents fought back. They told me and my brother to run and not look back. I ran as they said, but I did look back, and what I saw will haunt me till the end of my days. They had killed my parents and… and were eating my brother. I ran and ran and ran some more until I collapsed. Just before I passed out I saw silvery wings. When I awoke, I was with Twilight. The rest is history."

"I think it's our turn to add to this pool of the past.", said Alanine. "We awoke a few days ago with no memory except our names and that we were friends. Nothing else than that. Then we met our friends: Sora, Riku, and Kairi. Then darkness attacked and we got separated and in the midst of it, we got these." Balin and Alanine then summoned their Keyblades. "These are known as Keyblades. With these we are able to fight the forces of darkness, mainly creatures of darkness called Eclipsed that follow a master only known as Master Xanheart. We then met Max and he joined our quest to save the universe, find our friends, and get our memories back. Now we need to find this world's Keyhole and close it to save this world. But now because of these Pure Ones, we also need to beat them and save Max. That's our life." Then Gylfie stepped up.

"I guess that we have a least one thing in common, right now all we have is each other.", said Gylfie on the verge of tears. Digger then put his wing around her in a hug, followed by the rest of the group. Then they broke away. "Sorry for that."

"It's ok Gylf.", said Balin. "Come on, let's get some sleep." They then slept until the next night. They then had an uneventful flight until the night once again started turning to day once more. Behind them appeared a crow, and then another, and then another, until there was a whole murder of them. "I don't like the looks this." Then suddenly the crows attacked. Balin and Alanine summoned their Keyblades and hit any and every crow that came close. Then they suddenly started flying off.

"They grabbed Mrs. P!", yelled Soren. Then more black birds appeared behind them. "We also have more crows."

"Those aren't crows.", said Alanine as the creatures got closer and their details more defined. They were Eclipsed called Nicker-peckers. They had the body and wings of an Archraven, but had long, sharp claws. The feathers on it's head where a deep, dark purple and the rest a glistening black. It had red eyes that gave an expression of happiness. The Eclipsed symbol was located on it's chest. They were coming up fast and in a massive swarm. Balin and Alanine turned to face the incoming swarm. "Keep going, we'll hold them off for as long as we can." They then flew toward the enemy. As soon as the enemy was in range, Alanine casted Thunder several times. This destroyed a chunk of them and Alanine wobbled slightly before regaining control. "I don't think my magic will be of help right now."

"Then let's fuse.", replied Balin. They then clashed their Keyblades and formed Golden Light. A golden light surrounded their fusion weapon that then spread to them. They felt invigorated and full of energy once more. They then started hacking and slashing, taking down another one with every stroke of their blade. But for every one they slayed, another two took their place. After taking down an uncountable number of Nicker-peckers, the fusion weapon timed out. That's when the Eclipsed started to gain the upper hand. They were able to get past their defenses and get little scratches that began to add up. Balin and Alanine had no choice but to fall back. They flew toward a stone arch as the swarm of Nicker-peckers were close behind. Then suddenly, a bright light shined from the arch and the Eclipsed disappeared. They then flew and landed near the arch and Soren, Gylfie, Digger, and Twilight landed with Mrs. P back on Soren's back. In front of them was the Sea of Hoolemer.

"The Band.", said a voice. Then came an echidna with a staff in hand. "It was foretold that trespassers would land on my shore."

"We mean you no harm.", said Soren.

"Yes that was foretold as well.", said the echidna. "I know all. Now state your desire owl."

"Wait, if you know all, then how come you don't know that?", asked Gylfie.

"It was foretold that there would be one who doubts.", replied the echidna.

"We seek the Guardians.", answered Soren.

"He should already know that.", said Gylfie.

"I do, doubter. Now to reach the tree, stay between the paws of the LIttle Raccoon and the Golden Talons. Never go outside those stars. Now go, all of you." They didn't lift off. "It was foretold that the Band would hesitate, but soon would become a family. And a family needs all of it's members to play their parts: the Warrior," As he pointed to Twilight. "Strong and noble. The Tracker," As he pointed ar Digger. "Sturdy and faithful. The Navigator," As he passed by Gylfie. "who doutes. The Leader," As he pointed to Soren. "Who's gizzard is strong. And of course the Heart," As he pointed at Balin and Alanine. "Whose' hearts and Ga shine like stars and always there when needed. Each one coming this far, protecting the other. Now look to the sky and fly." The Band (as I will now call this particular group) then took off and flew over the sea. "Remember, when your wings are weak, your spirits broken, and you've flown as far as you can, you're half way there."

"What did he say?", asked Gylfie.

"We're half way there!", said Digger.

"He did say that,", said Balin. "but that's not all. (The last bit was under his breath.)"

"This going to be a breeze.", said Digger in his excitement.

"Don't say stuff like that!", yelled Balin and Alanine.

"Why?", asked Digger.

"Because if you say stuff like that, something bad will happen.", answered Alanine.

"That's just a myth.", replied Digger.

(A couple hours later and in a blizzard.)

"What did we say Digger, what did we say!", yelled Balin over the howling wind.

"Put a mouse in it! Gylfie, what's our heading?",responded Digger.

"I don't know, I've lost my bearings.", answered Gylfie.

"We're in the mist, the tree must be on the other side. I feel it in my gizzard.", said Soren.

"Your gizzard? Does anyone else have anymore information on how far it is?", asked Digger.

"Me and Balin can sense something up ahead with our hearts, but with this blizzard, it's hard to make out.", answered Alanine.

"Anyone have something more solid?", asked Digger.

"Digger, why are you flying like that?", asked Twilight.

"What? You know how I fly.", responded Digger.

"Digger, your wings!", yelled Gylfie as ice formed on Digger's wings.

"I think… goodbye.", said Digger before he began falling.

"Digger!", yelled the rest of the Band. Soren, Balin, and Alanine dived as Gylfie and Twilight were blown up by a powerful updraft. Soren, Balin, and Alanine dived through the blistering winds down toward where their friend had fallen. They then reached the sea and pulled out of their dives.

"Digger? Digger. Oh no.", said Soren. Then over a wave came a majestic Snowy owl with Digger in his talons. Then came another Snowy that flew in front of them.

"Can you fly with me?", asked the female Snowy.

"There are seven of us.", answered Soren.

"Yes, we know.", replied the owl. Then out of nowhere, Gylfie and Twilight appeared. They then followed the snowy out of the storm.

(A few hours latter with the sun just barely peeking out from over the horizon. The weather was completely clear.) The Band was still following the two snowies. They then heard a gong being sounded in the distance coming from up ahead in the fog bank. Then the fog cleared to reveal the biggest and most magnificent tree that anyone in the Band had ever seen, the Great Ga'hoole Tree. The immense tree had leafs similar to maple leafs and vines with golden berries that reminded them of tear drops in their shape. They landed on a platform on the tree as other owls came out to them. Then a couple of them took Digger into one of the entrances into the tree. The snowy that had carried him there then walked over to Soren.

"Don't worry about your friend. He is in good talons.", said the owl as the other snowy landed next to him.

"Thank you for all your help, but now we must speak to your king and queen. We have information for them.", said Soren. The two owls then began to chuckle. "What's so funny?!"

"You are speaking to the king and queen, my boy.", answered the male. Balin and Alanine then bowed to them.

"Forgive us for our ignorance, Your Majesty.", said Balin.

"There is nothing to forgive my young owlet. We always see ourselves as owls, Guardians, and rybs before we are king and queen.", replied the king. "My name is Boron and this is my mate Barran."

"It's an honor to meet you.", said Soren.

"The honor is all ours. Now what is this information you spoke of?", responded Barran.

"There is a group of evil owls called the Pure Ones that took us and dozens of other owlets...", started Soren.

"Say no more right now. We must have a meeting of the Parlement. We have only heard whispers of these Pure Ones until now.", said Boron. "I will get the others." He then flew into the tree.

"Follow me please.", said Barran as she flew into the tree. They then followed her through a series of tunnels and chambers in the tree until they got to a small chamber that had moss covering the way to another. "Wait here." She then flew into the other chamber. Then Twilight turned toward the way they had come.

"Where are you going Twilight?", asked Alanine.

"I'm going to find Digger. I should have realized that his wings were icing up sooner.", answered Twilight. He then left them. Mrs. P then slide off Soren.

"I should go with him.", said Mrs. P before she slithered off after Twilight. They then waited for several minutes before Barran poked her head in.

"We are ready for you now.", said Barran. They then entered a circular chamber with many perches around near the wall and several in the center. All the outer perches had owls of many different species. Barran motioned for them to perch in the center as she flew to a perch right next to Boron. Soren, Gylfie, Balin, and Alanine perched on four perches in the center next to eachother. "You may present you peace." Balin, Alanine, and Gylfie looked to Soren. Soren then had a look that asked 'me?'. The others gave a look of 'yes you.' Then Soren stepped forward.

"My name is Soren and here with me are Gylfie, Balin, and Alanine. We come with information of a force that could destroy the owl kingdoms.", started Soren. He then told them their tale, beginning when he and Kludd were snached by Jatt and Jutt. The members of the Parliament listened intensly as Soren told their tale. Balin and Alanine paid close attention when Soren got to the part when they were separated. "We were then lead to a stone chamber with dozens of moon blinked owls and told to pick a substance called flecks out of pellets. The flecks where small and blue and when put next to some sort of black spire, did terrible things to one's gizzard. It wasn't long after we had been taken there, an owl called Grimble came." He then continued on. When he had finished, an unusual Great Horned owl spoke. What was unusual about this owl is that he had streaks of bright red and orange feathers that weren't heard of in his species.

"I'm concerned about this fleck material they spoke of. It could be a new weapon or armor or shield and have similar effects.", said the owl.

"They definitely show the signs of the trials they describe.", said Barran. Then a Spotted owl spoke.

"I don't believe that these brave owlets would fly all this way, by themselves, to spin a fairy tale.", said a Spotted owl. Then a Great Gray began chuckling. "Or do you think otherwise Allomere?"

"Oh, Good Glaux. Boron, your majesty, let me get this straight. The Pure Ones are not a myth and building an army of moon blinked owlets and are planning to conquer the world with magical pellet debris. I don't mean any disrespect, especially to my little friends that have been through so much, such a story stretches plausibility too far.", replied Allomere. Then an odd Whiskered Screech owl started laughing. What was odd about him was that his feathers were very weathered, had an eye that had a scar across it and was in a permanent squint, his claws and beak were black from what looked like years of ash and fire, and was missing a talon on his right foot. "Does my friend Ezylryb find that amusing?"

"What's amusing is that you would cover yourself by besmirching these young flyers.", answered Ezylryb.

"Perhaps my friend Ezylryb wishes for us to race back to war. Perhaps he'll write a nice poem about it while the rest of us… well the rest of us have our talons deformed too.", responded Allomere. Ezylryb then flew over to him.

"I would never counsel blindly going to war, but for a cause such as the boy described, I would do whatever I could to help. You think I'm a coward or I'd just let others fight because of my oath, I'd fight you right now.. Boron, you can judge the winner.", responded Ezylryb.

"Mildly owl. We are trying to seek the truth here.", said Boron.

"The truth!", yelled Balin and Alanine.

"We told you the truth. The Pure Ones exist. They are going to enslave us all and rule our world without pity. True the only proof are my words, but words were the only proof that you were real. But still I believed.", said Soren. Ezylryb turned toward Boron.

"And you would argue with that.", said Ezylryb.

"I will not.", replied Boron.

"Boron, my Search-and-rescue Chaw is due of a routine survey during the next full moon. We could…", started Allomere.

"No. You will leave immediately, take your best owls with you, and be thorough.", ordered Boron. "Dismissed." Then the Parliament went their separate ways. Then Balin and Alanine started going out.

"Where are you two going?", asked Gylfie.

"To make sure that this Allomere character is actually going. There's just something about that owl we just don't trust.", answered Balin.

"Well leave us out.", said Gylfie as she and Soren flew over to them. They then went out of the tree and onto some branches and waited. Soon, Allomere and two other owls, all three of them had a helmet and battle claws. They saw them fly out toward the sea. Then Ezylryb landed on a branch near them.

"Oh to be a young owl with a taste for adventure arriving at the tree for the first time. Well done for holding your own in there. Some nice, strong gizzards and hearts, the tree always needs them.", said Ezylryb before he flew off.

"That is one strange owl.", said Soren.

"We couldn't agree more.", said Balin.

"I think he might be missing a few talons.", said Gylfie.

"And a good bath.", said a voice. They turned around and saw a female Spotted owl that was their age. "Gross old owl. You want to stay out of his Chaws if you can."

"Chaw?", asked Alanine.

"I'll tell you on the way to breaklight. You're already late.", said the owl as she flew into the tree. They followed her into the tree. "Now I have been told to explain the way we do things here during your basic training."

"Wait, basic training?", asked Balin.

"You don't become a Guardian over day. It takes years and years. Only our absolute finest are selected.", said the owl.

"Hey wait a minute, you never told us your name.", interrupted Balin.

"Are you going to keep interrupting. Now however if you do have talent, you will be tapped or selected for a Chaw or squadron. There's Search-and-rescue, Healing, Combat, Blacksmithing, Navigation, Tracking, Ga'Hoolology, Weather interpretation, Colliering, and Spell casting. I expect to be put in the Navigation chaw myself. Also, for the record, my name is Otulissa.", continued Otulissa. "Now I do believe that your friends are in there." She pointed into a chamber ahead. She then started flying off.

"Wait.", called Balin. "We haven't said our names. I'm Balin and this is Alanine, Gylfie, and Soren."

"Nice to meet you. Now I must get going.", responded Otulissa before she flew off. They then entered the chamber and saw Twilight and Digger sitting around Mrs. P. Digger was stuffing his beak with caterpillars and Twilight was fiddling with a metal lute.

"Hey guys, how are you doing?", asked Soren.

"We're doing good. As you can see with Digger eating away.", answered Twilight.

"Hey Twilight, where did you get the lute?", asked Alanine.

"That Great Horned, Bubo, the blacksmith ryb. He gave it to me. He said it was a prototype and asked me if I wanted to try it out." answered Twilight. "I've been practicing with it. Do you want to hear?"

"Sure Twilight.", answered Soren. Twilight then began playing beautiful. Then words that went to the music Twilight was playing came into Balin and Alanine's heads.

"Hey, somehow we know that song. Do you mind Twilight?", said Balin.

"Go ahead.", answered Twilight. Balin and Alanine then began to sing to Twilight playing his new lute.

"Da, da. Da, da. Da, da, da, da, da, da. Da, da. Da, da. Da, da, da, da, da. Shipwreck in a sea of faces. There's a dreamy world up there. Dear friends in high places, carry me away from here. Travel light, let the sun eclipse you. Because your fight is about to leave. There's more to this brave adventure than you'd ever believe. Bird's eye view! Awake the stars cause they are all around you. Wide Eyes will always brighten the blue. Chase your dreams and remember me, sweet bravery. Cause after all those wings will take you up so high. So bid the forest a fond goodbye as you race the wind and take to the sky. You take to the sky. Da, da. Da, da. Da, da, da, da, da, da. Da, da. Da, da. Da, da, da, da, da. On the hills of war and wonder, there's a stormy world up there. You can't whisper above the thunder, but you can fly anywhere. Purple burst of paper bird, this picture paints a thousand words. So take a breath of myth and mystery and don't look back. Bird's eye view! Awake the stars cause they are all around you. Wide Eyes will always brighten the blue. Chase your dreams and remember me, sweet bravery. Cause after all those wings will take you up so high. So bid the forest a fond goodbye as you race the wind and take to the sky. You take to the sky. There's a realm above the tree, where the lost are finaly found. So touch your feathers to the breeze and leave the ground. Bird's eye view! Awake the stars cause they are all around you. Wide Eyes will always brighten the blue. Chase your dreams and remember me, sweet bravery. Cause after all those wings will take you up so high. So bid the forest a fond goodbye as you race the wind and take to the sky. You take to the sky. You take to the sky. You take to the sky.", sang Balin and Alanine. (I wrote this from memory, so sorry if there are any mistakes.) Then they heard applause. They looked around and saw that everyone in Dining Hollow was clapping for them. Balin and Alanine then tried to fade into the background while Twilight embrace his newfound fame.

"How about you two just go and Me, Soren, and Gylfie grab something and we'll go to our hollow while Twilight is still the center of their attention.", suggested Digger.

"What about Twilight, shouldn't we help him?", asked Alanine.

"He loves this sort of thing. Now go.", answered Digger. Balin and Alanine then flew out as quick as they could and went outside and then waited for them to come. They were loaded with bowls and cups. "Let's go." Digger then lead them through the tree to a hollow close the top branches of the tree. Inside were already six nests just right for them.

"I wonder who made these.", said Soren.

"I did.", said a voice. They turned around and saw Mrs. P slither in. "Well me and a couple other nest maid snakes."

"There are other nest maids here?", asked Alanine.

"Yes. In fact quite a few.", answered Mrs. P. "Anyway I just wanted to let you know Soren that they have asked me to work for them and I accepted."

"That's great Mrs. P.", replied Soren.

"Anyway, I should get back to work. Let me know if any of you need anything.", said Mrs. P before she slithered away. They then set up the food that they had brought. There were bowls of caterpillars and cooked vole and the cups had a golden liquid in them.

"So they cook their meat around here?", asked Gylfie.

"Yes. It's actually quite good.", answered Digger as he grabbed some. They each tried some and found it delicious.

"And what be this?", asked Balin as he pointed to the contents in the cup.

"Milkberry tea. You know those berries all around the tree, they are called Milkberries and tea is just one of the things they can make with them.", answered Digger. They each took a sip and found that it too was delicious. Soren and Gylfie couldn't describe the taste, but Balin and Alanine could. Just as the name implied, it tasted just like milk. They continued to have a peaceful and quiet meal. Then Twilight came in after they finished. "How was the spotlight Twilight?"

"Great as always.", answered Twilight. "Also I was told that we should go to sleep soon. Nights start early here. Goodlight (owl goodnight) all." They then all settled down for the day. Gylfie, Digger and Twilight were soon fast asleep, but Soren, Balin, and Alanine were still awake. They were too restless to go to sleep. Then they heard a beautiful voice begin to sing as a harp played.

"Night is done, gone the moon, gone the stars from the skies. Fades the black of the night comes the morn with rosy light. Fold your wings, go to sleep, rest your gizzards, safe you'll be for the day. Glaux is nigh. Far away is First Black, (The opposite of first light) but it shall seep back. Over field. Over flower. In the twilight hour. We are home in our tree. We are owls, we are free. As we go, this we know Glaux is nigh.", sang the voice. By the time it ended, they were fast asleep.

Balin was flying through a burning forest. He was desperately looking for something but he didn't know what. Then he heard something and turned his head and saw Max swooping down on him with lanceshield in his talons. "Max!", said Balin as he awoke. He looked around and saw that everyone else was asleep and he was safe in the Ga'hoole tree. He could tell that it was the middle of the day. But yet, his heart was still pumping fast and he couldn't shake the feeling that the dream had left. "Maybe a little exploring will take my mind of it." He then quietly stepped out of the hollow and began exploring the tree.

A couple minutes later, Alanine also awoke in a similar manner. He had the same dream Balin had and said "Balin!".

"Kludd!", said Soren as he awoke.

"Daymare (Owl nightmare) Soren?", asked Alanine.

"Yeah, I was in a burning forest being attacked by Kludd.", answered Soren. "Hey, where's Balin?" Alanine turned his head to Balin's nest and saw it empty.

"He must have woken up and gone exploring.", answered Alanine. "Do you want to help me find him?"

"I could use the flight.", answered Soren. They then quietly left the hollow.

(Elsewhere) Balin was wandering around a tunnel when he heard a quiet sobbing. He followed the sobbing to a small hollow and poked his head in and saw a Barn owl hatchling crying. In his talons was a necklace with a white egg shard attached to it. The hatchling turned and saw him and hid (Not very well) in the down of the nest.

"It's ok little one. My name is Balin. What is yours?", said Balin in a soft voice.

"Shard.", answered Shard as he poked a little out of his downy cover.

"Well Shard, can you tell me why you were crying?", asked Balin.

"I had a daymare about my parents.", answered Shard as he came out of hiding completely.

"Where are they?", asked Balin. Shard just bowed his head. "Oh, I'm so sorry."

"It's ok, you didn't know.", said Shard. "In my daymare, I see them protecting me to the end." He then showed the necklace to Balin. "This is all I have of them now."

"At least you have that and your memories. I don't have either of them.", said Balin. "As long as you keep them in your heart, then they will never truly leave you."

"Thank you Balin.", said Shard before he had a big yawn.

"I'll leave you to get some sleep. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask. Bye.", said Balin as he left Shard to dive into peaceful sleep.

(Meanwhile) Soren and Alanine were looking for Balin when they too heard a quiet sobbing. They followed the sound to the Infirmary and found an owl sobbing there. She was a Short-Eared owl owlet about their age and was the one they heard crying. Alanine was about to go to her when Soren stopped him.

"I'll take care of this, you go find Balin.", said Soren before he went to the owl. Alanine then left and continued searching for Balin when he heard more sobbing. He followed it to a near-by hollow and in it was a Snowy owl hatchling. In his talons was a locket in the shape of yellow star, almost like a paopu fruit.

"What's wrong?", asked Alanine.

"Go away.", said the hatchling. "You can't help me."

"You can't be sure until we try. My name is Alanine. What is yours?", said Alanine.

"Spells.", answered Spells. "And there is no way you can bring them back."

"Who be them?", asked Alanine.

"My parents.", answered Spells as he opened the locket. Inside was two small feathers of down. "The Pure Ones attacked our home, killed them, and snached me. I bit the talons of the owl holding me and hid among the bushes. Then the Guardians found me and brought me here. But I still miss them with all my heart and gizzard and nothing will be able to bring them back. But one day I will avenge their deaths."

"Revenge is not the answered Spells. Yes, justice must be served, but that alone will not make the pain go away. The best thing you can do is to live your life to the fullest and always do what is right. They may be gone, but they will always watch over you.", said Alanine.

"Do you… Do you really think that?", asked Spells.

"Yes Spells, I do. Now go get some sleep. You have a big day of living tomorrow. Goodlight Spells.", said Alanine as he left.

"Goodlight Alanine.", said Spells as he settled down and quickly fell asleep.

Balin continued to explore the tree after his encounter with Shard and turned the corner and found himself in a gigantic room filled to the brim with books. Then out of another tunnel came Alanine and from another came Soren.

"I was beginning to wonder if you three would ever show up.", said a voice. They turned around and saw Ezylryb on a perch with a jar of dried caterpillars. "But then every owl who wanders around eventually gets here to the library."

"You were waiting for us?", asked Balin. Ezylryb nodded yes.

"But why?", asked Alanine.

"There is book I want to loan to you three.", answered Ezylryb. He then grabbed a book from his area and handed it to them.

"The Chronicle of the Battle of the Ice Claws.", read Soren aloud. "How did you know?"

"When you get to be my age, you get a feel for things.", answered Ezylryb. "Now you three should get some sleep before First Black. Goodlight." He then flew out of the library.

"He is right, we should get some more sleep.", said Soren. "Come on, let's go."

(Several hours later/First Black)

"Wake up. Wake up. Wake up!", said a voice. The Band opened their eyes and saw that it was Otulissa.

"What are you doing?", asked Twilight still half asleep.

"Waking you six up. It's time for Tweener (owl breakfast). Come on.", answered Otulissa. She then flew out of the hollow.

"Wake me up in an hour.", said Twilight.

"Did she say Tweener?", asked Digger aloud. Soon as they heard that they were all wide awake. They quickly flew to the Dining hollow and found a table. Soon after, Mrs. P came slithering in with cups of Milkberry tea and bowls of cooked vole.

"Good Tween Mrs. P.", said Soren.

"Good Tween to you too Soren.", replied Mrs. P. She then set the food and drinks down on the table. Then Otulissa and the Short-Eared owlet from last night came.

"Is it ok if we join you?", asked the owlet.

"Sure Ruby.", answered Soren. "Everyone, this is Ruby." Then she and Otulissa sat down.

"Hi Ruby. My name is Balin and this is Alanine."

"I'm Gylfie."

"Digger's my name."

"Twilight."

"Nice to meet you.", said Ruby. They then began eating.

"Apparently we have been put into the same training course, so the eight of us will be spending a lot of time together.", said Otulissa. "Of course if any of you need help with your studies, I know lots about different things, especially Navigation. After all I come from a long line of navigators, starting with Strix Emerea. And…" Then at that point, Balin and Alanine just tried to tune her out as she rambled on. As she continued a thought crossed their minds: 'Good Glaux, does this owl ever stop talking?!' After a little bit, they finished Tweener. "Our class tonight is Common Metals and Their Uses taught by ryb Bubo. It's near the base of the tree. Follow me." She then took off, followed by the Band and Ruby.

"So Otulissa, what exactly is a ryb?", asked Alanine as they flew to their class.

"Rybs are what we call teachers here, but literally it means 'deep knowledge'.", answered Otulissa. They then landed at a little cave with roots all along the edges of the entrance. Smoke was drifting up from a hole in the top. Then out from the cave came the flame colored Great-Horned owl from the Parlement.

"Hello, my name is Bubo for those of you who don't know and welcome to Common Metals and Their Uses." said Bubo. "In this class, you will learn about metals we use here at the tree on a day to day bases and the grades of coals we use for our fires. Now, do any of you know the grades of coals we use here?" Otulissa raised her wing. "Yes Otulissa."

"The grades are: grade B, grade A, and Bonk.", answered Otulissa. "Any others would be useless."

"Correct. Now where do we get Bonk coals?", said Bubo.

"You can only get them from volcanoes that are located in the Beyond. This is because only they reach a hot enough temperature to produce Bonk coals.", answered Otulissa.

"Excellent. Now that we have that out of the way, please follow me inside for a more talons-on study." said Bubo as he lead them inside. Inside was a forge with everything that one would need to create things of metal: tongs, anvil, hammer, furnis, and of course coals. "Now these are some of the ones that have been sorted already." He then pointed to three carriers that were indeed sorted into the three groups. "We recently got another load from our Coalleraring Chaw. I want you to sort them into their categories. You may work in teams of two and you have from now until lunch to sort as many as you can and the team that does the best will earn a reward. I am not only looking for a high number, but also an accurate sorting. Ready and begin!" Soren teamed up with Gylfie, Balin with Alanine, Digger with Twilight, and Otulissa with Ruby. For several hours they worked tirelessly. "Time's up. I will inspect your work during lunch. See you in a bit."

After a delicious lunch of minced mice and Milkberry tarts, they hastily returned to Bubo's forge for their results.

"I have done the calculations and now for the results. Twilight and Digger, all though you sorted a ton of coals, your accuracy is what was your downfall. Otulissa an Ruby, you're sorting was excellent, but didn't have enough coal sorted."

"What! But we even sorted them into their subcategories.", said Otulissa.

"Yes you did, but when you only looked at the fine details, you lost sight of the big picture and didn't get a large amount sorted. That was your team's downfall.", replied Bubo. "As for the last two teams, you four were incredibly close to each other. But the winners are Balin and Alanine."

"Yes!", said Balin joyously. "We did it."

"Now this next lesson ties in with the reward, I will be demonstrating how to make battle claws.", said Bubo. "Now as I do this, keep at least three feet away from me for safety reasons. We don't want any feathers being singed on our first day. The claws I will be making are a set of basic ones. Nothing too fancy. Let's get started." Bubo then began expertly forging the battle claws: stroking the fire, getting the metal just right, folding the metal into talon shape, heating and cooling the metal is get it to it's perfect strength. Soon he held a pair of battle claws in his talons. "Now the next step is fit them to the talons of the owl that they are meant for. Come over here Balin and Alanine." They walked over to Bubo, who then put the claws on them. Balin got the left claw and Alanine got the right claw. Bubo did slight adjustments to the claws until they fit them perfectly. "There, fit for battle." Just then the armor pieces began to glow. Balin and Alanine hit the armor pieces and a bright light shined. When it faded, they then had battle claws on both of their talons that was now white and gold on Balin and black and silver on Alanine. Covering their chest and back was armor that was white and had a heart of gold on it. Alanine's was black with a silver heart. They also had helmets on that covered their faces but didn't cover their eyes and had the same coloration. They also had wing blades on. "What just happened?"

"The battle claws must have unlocked this form of our Keyarmor.", answered Alanine. They then existed out of their armor and found that their battle claws that they had originally put on where still there. "I do believe that these are the key to that transformation."

"Now the bad guys will really need to be on their talons.", said Balin. "Thanks Bubo."

"Don't mention it and you two can keep the talons.", replied Bubo. "Now that is all for tonight. Enjoy the rest of the night." They then separated to do their own things. Balin and Alanine went for a flight around the tree when they began to hear a sweet voice sing.

"Dearest Tree we give our thanks for your blessings through the years. Vines heavy with sweet berries nourish us and quench our fears. And in times of summer droughts, searing heat or winters cold, from your bounty freely given we grow strong and we grow bold. Let us always tend with care your bark, your roots, your vines so fair…", sang the voice before a snowy owl came through a cluster of Milkberry vines and right into Balin and Alanine.

"Hey watch where you're flying.", said Balin.

"I'm so sorry, I didn't see you there.", said the owl.

"Hey wait a minute, you're the one we heard singing just now and yesterday at dawn.", said Alanine.

"Yes I am. My name is Madame Plonk, signer of the tree.", said Madame Plonk. "What are your names?"

"My name is Alanine and this is Balin.", answered Alanine.

"Nice to meet you and I wish I had more time, but I must get going. See you two around.", said Madame Plonk as she flew off. They then looked to the horizon and saw the sun coming up.

"It's getting late. We should hit the down.", said Balin. "Race you to the hollow." He then took off flying with Alanine just behind him.

(The next night after Tweener)

"You may have bested me yesterday, but tonight is my turn. Tonight we have Navigation with Strix Struma. See you guys at the top of the tree.", said Otulissa to Balin and Alanine before she flew off.

"I don't think that she takes someone being better too well.", said Gylfie.

"Too bad for her, because I know an owl that is going to wipe the floor with her.", replied Alanine. "Let's go, your triumph awaits Gylf." They then laughed at this.

"You really think so?", asked Gylfie.

"You got us here, didn't you.", answered Soren. "Now let's get going before we are late." They then took off for the top of the tree. There waiting was Otulissa, Ruby, and the Spotted owl that had spoken in the Parliament, which they now knew was Strix Struma.

"Welcome to Navigation class. For those who don't know, my name is Strix Struma.", said Strix Struma. "Here you will learn how to use the stars as your guide for direction. Now does anyone know what group of stars we primarily use in this part of the world?" Both Gylfie and Otulissa raised their wings. "My, what a nice surprise, someone other than Otulissa having an answer. Gylfie."

"I do believe that would be the Golden Talons constellation.", answered Gylfie.

"Correct Gylfie. Now Otulissa, what is the second constellation?", said Struma.

"That would be the Little Racoon. To be exact, it's paws.", answered Otulissa.

"Correct as always. Now we are going to fly and trace the constellations tonight and familiarize all of you to them. Otulissa you fly on my right, Gylfie on my left. Twilight and Soren, you fly behind them, followed Digger and Ruby. Balin and Alanine, you two bring up the rear. Let's go.", said Struma before she took off with the others falling into their positions. They spent several hours tracing the consultations, starting with the very important Golden Talons. All throughout the flight, Gylfie and Otulissa where competing the whole time, trying to prove that they were the best. They then landed back on the top of the tree. "Well tonight was a very good class, but I do have some homework for you all. I want you all to create a copy of the Golden Talons and Little Racoon. You will find everything you need in the library and if you need help you can help each other and Ezylryb should be in his usual spot there and can lend you a talon for finding the books you need. It is due tomorrow. See you tomorrow." She then flew off. Otulissa and Gylfie then faced each other.

"I have a tart that says that I finish and get a better grade than you.", said Otulissa.

"You are so on Spots.", replied Gylfie.

"It is so on, Half-pinet.", replied Otulissa. They then took off in different directions.

"Should we talk to them?", asked Balin.

"No. Never get in between two girls that are in a fight no matter what kind of fight it is.", answered Twilight.

"The only time we should get involved is if they are literally at each other's throats.", finished Digger.

"I have to agree with them on this one.", said Soren.

"Ok, we will not go to them.", replied Alanine. "We'll see you three latter. Me and Balin are going to get an early start." They than took off for the library.

"Let's find Ezylryb first and find the books.", suggested Balin. It did not take long to find him, especially since when they found him, he was muttering at a locked box.

"Glaux curse this thing.", muttered Ezylryb.

"What's up Ezylryb?", asked Balin.

"Oh just this box. The key got locked inside and now I can't get it opened.", answered Ezylryb.

"Well then let us help.", said Alanine as he summoned his Keyblade. He then tapped on the box and it came open. Inside was several books, loose pieces of paper, and the key.

"So that's what a Keyblade looks like.", said Ezylryb. "May I?"

"Of course Ezylryb.", answered Alanine. He handed Ezylryb his Keyblade. Ezylryb held it for a second before it disappeared and reappeared in Alanine's talons.

"Well that myth is now proven.", said Ezylryb.

"What myth?", asked Balin.

"That only those that are chosen by the Keyblade can wield it and it will return to their rightful owners.", answered Ezylryb. "But now that that is said and done, what can I do for you boys?"

"We need a copy of a chart with the Golden Talons and Little Racoon for us to copy.", answered Alanine.

"Well you are in luck.", said Ezylryb. He then fished out of the box a scroll and handed it to them. "This chart should give you all you need."

"Thanks Ezylryb.", said both Balin and Alanine.

(The next night after tweener) They had all turned in their copy to Struma. "Well I see lots of good charts. I will have your results tomorrow. Now head off to your next class, which is Ga'hoolology. See you all tomorrow.", said Struma before she flew off.

"Uhgh.", sighed Otulissa.

"What the problem Otulissa?", asked Balin.

"We now have to go to the most boring class, taught by the most boring ryb in the entire tree. It would be just fine if Dewlap didn't teach it in the most boring possible way.", answered Otulissa.

"You mean to tell us that there is a ryb that bores you! Oh my Glaux, we are all going to die of boredom!", said Balin. Then they all started laughing at this, even Otulissa.

"Well we better get this torture of a class over with. Follow me.", said Otulissa. They then flew to an entrance near the base of the tree and went downward as the smooth wooden walls became tangled roots and damp dirt. They then saw an elderly Burrowing owl.

"Hello and welcome to the most important class we have here at the Great Tree, Ga'hoolology. My name is Dewlap for those who don't know me and I will be your ryb as you learn how to take care of home." said Dewlap. "Now the most basic thing we can do of our beloved tree is bury our yarped pellets. This provides much needed nutrients…"
"Your right Otulissa. She just started and it is already sucking the life out of me.", whispered Balin.

"It is making me want to yarp a pellet right now.", said Twilight.

"Did I hear that someone had to yarp? This will be excellent for an example on how to properly bury a pellet. Please step forward Twilight.", said Dewlap.

"Me and my big beak.", muttered Twilight.

(Several hours of gizzard-ripping inducing boredom later with only jokes whispered to keep the boredom from taking over and only a short break for lunch in between.) "Alright, you are all free to go and I hope that my knowledge has deepened your love and awareness of our most dearest tree.", announced Dewlap. The Band, Otulissa, and Ruby flew away as fast as they could outside.

"Man does it feel good to stretch my wings after that.", said Soren.

"I hope that tomorrow's class will be a bit more exciting.", said Digger.

"There is nothing less exciting than her class anywhere that I know of in this universe.", replied Otulissa. They all began laughing at this.

"You know Otulissa, your not so bad after one gets to know you.", said Gylfie. "Sorry for calling you Spots last night."

"And I'm sorry for calling you Half-pint.", replied Otulissa. "Do you think we can be friends?"

"What do you say guys, you think we can all be friends?", asked Gylfie.

"I don't have a problem.", answered Twilight.

"It is far better to have a friend than an enemy.", answered Digger.

"I think that will be great.", answered Soren.

"Won't be any different for me.", answered Alanine.

"As long as she doesn't become Dewlap part 2.", answered Balin. They all laughed at this.

"Then the answer is yes Otulissa. We can all be friends.", said Gylfie.

"Finally, now I can be with all of you without any battles.", said Ruby.

"Now how best to celebrate our new friendship?", asked Balin.

"We could do the usual thing.", answered Alanine.

"The usual thing?", asked Otulissa.

"A dual contest with wooden swords.", answered Balin. "But wait, we don't have anything we can use."

"That be where you are wrong. I know where there are some good branches that can be used as swords. Come on, follow me.", said Otulissa. They followed her to the shore and there they found several good sticks to use.

"These will be excellent. Now for the matches: Ruby will face Digger, I will face Twilight, Balin will face Soren, and Otulissa will face Gylfie.", said Alanine. "First match will be Ruby and Digger." They then took their positions on the shore. Digger charged forward but Ruby was ready for this. She quickly disarmed him, grabbed his stick, and held hers to his chest and his to the back of his neck.

"Wow!", exclaimed Balin. "Where did you learn such sweet moves Ruby?"

"I don't know. I just felt natural.", answered Ruby.

"Alright then.", said Twilight. "Now it's me and Alanine's turn." They then took their positions. Twilight and Alanine charged forward at the same time and clashed in the air. From there, Twilight unleashed a barrage of attacks that Alanine had to continuously move to block. After several minutes, Twilight's string of attacks started to slow down and that's when Alanine gained the upper hand. Alanine did a quick combo finishing it with disarming Twilight. He then pointed the tip of his stick at Twilight's chest. Then Twilight started to laugh.

"Good match Alanine. It has been a long time since someone has actually beaten me. Now I have to try to beat you someday.", said Twilight.

"Keep dreaming Twi. I am only going to get stronger as time goes on.", said Alanine.

"All right Mister All-powerful, it's now me and Balin's turn.", said Soren. Then he and Balin took their positions.

"Hey Soren.", said Balin. "Don't hold back, ok."

"I was about to say the same thing.", replied Soren. They then charged at one another and clashed in the air. They then swung their sticks at each other and countering each other's swing. They soon entered a blade lock.

"You're a pretty good swordsman Soren.", said Balin.

"And I can see one reason why the Keyblade chose you.", responded Soren. Then Balin broke the lock and pushed Soren back and then followed it up with a heavy downward slash, knocking him to the ground. Then before Soren could get up, Balin flew down and pointed his stick at Soren's chest. He then put his stick down and helped Soren up.

"Now it's our turn.", said Gylfie as she and Otulissa got into position. Gylfie began by charging at Otulissa, a move that she had not expected but was able to block. Otulissa the went on the offensive and started swinging at Gylfie who dodged out of the way of her attacks. Then Gylfie tried to get an attack in, but was blocked by Otulissa. This went on for several hours until the sun started to rise.

"Hey guys, if we are going to get some breaklight, we need to stop and go right now.", said Ruby.

"So a draw then Otulissa?", asked Gylfie.

"Yeah, a draw.", answered Otulissa. They then quickly flew off for some well deserved breaklight.

(The next night after tweener.)

"We have Tracking today with Sylvana.", said Otulissa. "Follow me." They flew outside and to a low platform that was close to the roots. There waiting for them was a Burrowing owl.

"Hello and welcome to Basic Tracking. For those who don't know, I am Sylvana and I will be your ryb in this class. Now, what are some of the thing we look for when tracking?", said Sylvana. Otulissa raised her wing. "Yes Otulissa."

"We look for tracks, patches of fur, tumbledown, and weathered feathers, and yarped pellets, which may be buried.", answered Otulissa.

"Correct Otulissa. Now I have set up a little exercise to test how good your skills are and where they need work. Several members of my chaw have hidden themselves all over Ga'hoole and your task is follow the clues that they have both intensely and unintentionally hidden to find them and bring them back to me here. Each one of you will be in charge of finding one of my chaw members.", explained Sylvana. "If you work in teams, though not recommended, you must bring back all of the members before any of your team can return. In these.." She then pointed to several small scrolls. "you will find the name and species of the owl you need to find and the first clue as to where they are. Begin." Then each owl then grabbed a scroll at random.

"Hey Balin, let's work together.", said Alanine.

"But won't that slow us down?", asked Balin.

"With us together, we'll finish it before anyone else does.", responded Alanine.

"Can't argue with logic like that.", said Balin. He then opened his scroll. "Mine is an owl named Foxtrot. He is an Elf owl and the first clue is what looks like a pellet surrounded by roots."

"I think that is pointing us in the direction of the area where we had Ga'hoolology.", said Alanine. He then opened his scroll. "Let's see, mine is named Pathfinder and she is a Snowy owl and my clue is what looks like a not much of a helpful clue, so let's start with yours. To the tunnels!" They then quickly followed the same route they went yesterday untill among the roots they found a pellet in the same position as the one on the scroll at a fork in the tunnel.

"It look's as if we're on the right track.", said Balin. He then saw some feathers leading down one path. On closer investigation, he saw that they were Elf owl feathers. "Come on, I think he went this way."

"Wait Balin.", said Alanine. He then pointed to a pair of small talon prints in the dirt. "Look here, these prints point in that direction, but there is some shifting in the prints. I think our tracking friend is trying to give us the slip and sent his feathers down that way when he really went that way."

"Ok then, I trust you.", responded Balin before he and Alanine flew down the other tunnel. Soon they heard a heartbeat. At first it was soft and slow, then it became louder as they went down the tunnel and then faster. They pinpointed the sound to a clump of roots close to the wall. With further investigation they saw an Elf owl hiding among the roots. "Are you Foxtrot?"

"Yes I am, my clever friends.", answered Foxtrot coming out of the roots. "How did you figure out that I didn't go down the other tunnel?"

"Your talon prints gave you away.", answered Alanine.

"That was a very keen observation.", replied Foxtrot.

"Now all we have to do is find your's Alanine.", said Balin.

"But I already have.", said Alanine. He then summoned his Keyblade and threw it behind him.

"Ow",cried someone in pain. Then from behind the corner came a snowy owl rubbing her head with her wing. "Did you really need to hit me with your Keyblade?"

"Are you Pathfinder?', asked Alanine.

"Yes I am.", answered Pathfinder.

"Then yes. Absolutely necessary.", answered Alanine.

"How did you even know that she was there?", asked Balin.

"Once we were alone, I started hearing light noises behind us but every time I looked back nothing was there. Then I started thinking that if only I had a mirror to see behind me. That is when it clicked. The mirror in the clue is what you can do with one. See behind you.", answered Alanine.

"I never thought that someone would be able to figure it out so fast, if at all.", said Pathfinder.

"Thanks. Now let's report back to Sylvana.", said Alanine. They then quickly flew back to the platform where Sylvana waited for them.

"Nice job you two. You two are the second ones to complete the task.", complemented Sylvana.

"Who finished first?", asked Balin.

"Your friend Digger. He is a natural tracker.", answered Sylvana. "That is all I have for you tonight. You two may go now." Balin and Alanine then flew off.

"Hey Balin, you wanna see if our results for our homework are in?", asked Alanine.

"Sure.", answered Balin. "Then there is something I want to check out."

"What is it?", asked Alanine.

"Remember when Ezylryb said that the myth about Keyblades answering to their chosen, I wanna know what else he knows about Keyblades. It may even have something about our past.", answered Balin.

"That sounds like an excellent plan.", replied Alanine. They then flew to the navigation chaw and found Strix Struma with a small pile of scrolls.

"Perfect timing you two, I just finished grading them.", said Struma handing them their charts. "You two got the second best grade in the class."

"Who got first?", asked Alanine.

"Otulissa and Gylfie.", answered Struma. "Now can you please take this to Digger in the library if it is not too much trouble?"

"We were actually heading there next.", replied Alanine taking Digger's chart. They then flew off to the library and found Digger. "Hey Digger, here is your chart."

"Thanks." . said Digger. "Oh, before I forget, I found something I want to give to you guys. Maybe you'll find some use for it." He then handed to them what looked like a green crystal that shined in the light. "I did some research and found that is call an orichalcum. You can apparently make something with it if you have enough of it and some other materials. I'll see you two later." He then took off.

"Orichalcum.", said Alanine. "We definitely need to hold onto this." He then put it inside their bag. "Now let's go find Ezylryb." It wasn't hard to find him, as he was in his usual spot just this time he wasn't struggling with a locked box, but was reading and munching on dried caterpillars.

"Back to see me so soon.", said Ezylryb in a joking manner.

"Good to see you too Ezylryb.", said Balin.

"Is there something I can do for you two?", asked Ezylryb.

"Yes there is, we need to know what you do about the Keyblade.", answered Balin. "There is just so much about it that we don't know."

"Well as for accuracy on the knowledge I have at my disposal is not very high. The last known Keyblade wielders in this world before you two, is back in the time of Hoole.", replied Ezylryb.

"Wait, Hoole, as in the first king?", asked Alanine.

"They very same and that is why it is hard to know what is true and what is not. Things from the time of legends tend to be a little different from fact.", answered Ezylryb. "I can lend you a copy of the legends, but as for what is true and not, I do not know which is which."

"Any info would be nice.", replied Balin.

"Wait here then.", said Ezylryb before he left. He then quickly came back with a book in his talons. "Here you go. The Key Cycle by Lyze of Kiel." He then handed the book to them.

"Lyze of Kiel, as in the legendary warrior, he wrote this book?", asked Balin in amazement.

"The very same. He came from the Northern Kingdoms, where most of the stories in this cycle originate.", replied Ezylryb.

"Cycle?", asked Alanine.

"All the legends of Ga'hoole are put into what we call cycles. Like the Fire Cycle is about Grank, the First Collier, and how he tamed fire.", answered Ezylryb. "Every chaw has a cycle and then two more: the Hoole Cycle and the lesser known Key Cycle. Unforchantly, that also means very few copies."

"Thanks Ezylryb.", said Balin and Alanine.

"Don't mention it. Now if you excuse me there's some more notes I need take before brakelight.", said Ezylryb before he went back to his book. Balin and Alanine then took their book to a near by table and set the book on it and began to read it.

"The last know Keyblade wielders to come to this world were the great Master Hikari, Master of light, and his brother Master Kage, Master of the shadows: both Keyblade wielders of the light.", read Balin aloud.

"With their Keyblades, Warrior's Courage and Loyal Defender…", read Alanine. "Wait, aren't those the names of our Keys?"

"You're right, but does this mean that we have some kind of connection to these ancient wielders?", asked Balin. Just then the memory fragment of then facing the masters came back. "That answers that question but raises another: how do we know them?"

"I wish I knew. The closer we get to an answer, the farther it gets.", replied Alanine.

"We'll just have to take it one step at a time.", said Balin. "And one day, we'll get there."

"Thanks bro.", replied Alanine. Then Gylfie came in.

"Hey guys. I just came to tell you that they are serving brakelight soon.", said Gylfie.

"Ok, right behind you.", replied Balin. They then started flying to the dining hollow. "So did you and Otulissa get your grades yet?"

"Yes we did and we tied for highest score.", answered Gylfie.

"So what about that bet you two made?", asked Alanine.

"Forgotten. We decided that it was a little childish of us and called it off.", answered Gylfie.

"That's good.", replied Balin.

(The next night after tweener)

"Today we have Search-and-rescue with Boron to day.", said Otulissa.

"We have a class with the king?", asked Soren. "I didn't know he taught classes."

"Not all the time, but they both teach classes when they can. Boron will teach Search-and-rescue and Barran will teach combat and occasionally healing.", answered Otulissa. "Now let's go, we don't want to be late." They then quickly flew to the platform where Boron was waiting for them.

"I assume you all know who I am.", said Boron. "But what you don't know is what I have planned for you all today."

"Then enlighten us.", said Twilight.

"Eager I see.", said Boron. "You see that little raft out there on the water?" He pointed at a raft in the water a few yards away. "On that raft are several owlipoppens, your task is to reach the raft, grab one of the owlipoppens and bing it here undamaged."

"Not a problem", said Twilight.

"There is more to this challenge. Only one of you will be going at a time and you will have some company from those not going. You see, while one goes for the owlipoppen, the rest of you and myself will be trying to stop you. Each one of you will have a turn. Now who wants to go first?", said Boron. Twilight's wing immediately shot up. "You have ten seconds." Twilight took off in a dash toward the raft. "Remember that we only need to keep him from reaching back here with the owlipoppen to win. Now go!" They all took off after Twilight, who had just reached the raft. He then grabbed a white, fluffy thing from the raft and started heading back. When they got closer, Balin and Alanine could make out what Twilight was holding: it was a doll in the shape of a hatchling made of down, twigs, and moss. Otulissa made the first move and went straight for the owlipoppet, but Twilight managed to swerve out of her way. Then Gylfie and Ruby went in and went for Twilight's wings. Twilight then dived down, avoiding their attack. Then Soren, Boron, Balin and Alanine attacked from four different angles. He let go of the owlipoppet and the others followed it. Then Twilight dived down and grabbed it in mid-air before it hit the water and carried it to shore. "Well done Twilight. Who's next?"

"We would like to go next.", said Balin. "But as a team."

"Very well, but you must bring back two owlipoppets back for both of you to pass.", replied Boron. "Now go!" Balin and Alanine took off immediately. They quickly reached the raft and gabbed an owlipoppet each. They then started coming back and saw the others flying in an attack formation.

"I have an idea.", said Balin. "Take my owlipoppet and I will run interference." Balin handed his owlipoppet to Alanine and got in front of him and readied himself. The first ones to attack were Gylfie and Ruby. Balin flew at them at incredible speed and grabbed them by their talons. He then spun around with then grasped tightly in his talons and then threw them at Digger and Otulissa, stopping them and clearing more of the way for Alanine. Meanwhile, Soren and Twilight snuck around him and went after Alanine. Soren came from the right and Twilight from the left. Alanine waited until they were a feather's almost tuched, Alanine then spun forward and Twilight and Soren collided. Then Boron came in with a powerful dive attack on Alanine, but was blocked by Balin. Balin locked his talons with Boron's as Alanine quickly flew the rest of the way to the tree. They regrouped at the platform.

"Well done you two, you worked exceptionally well together.", complemented Boron. The rest of the class flew by (pardon the pun) with only Soren and Otulissa finishing the exercise.

(The next night) "Ok guys, we have Healing class with Matron tonight and then we have two nights off for Trader Mags and then Scroomsa Wikken.", said Otulissa.

"Who's Trader Mags?", asked Balin.

"And whats Scroomsa Wikken?", asked Alanine.

"What, you don't Scroomsa Wikken is?", asked Otulissa. Balin and Alanine shook their heads no. "Well Scroomsa Wikken is when we honor those who have passed on to Glamora. How we do that here is we light lanterns for each person we cared about and lost and release them into the night sky. (I know this sounds like Tangled, but this is just how combining the book with the movie turned out.) As for your other question, Trader Mags is a magpie that scavenges the ruins of the Others and sells them. If you ask me, it is just a bunch of rubbish. But there are those, like Madam Plonk, that just adore that junk."

"Others?", asked Alanine.

"Don't tell me you haven't heard about the Others too." said Otulissa in disbelief.

"I'm afraid that we have not.", responded Balin.

"Well Others are a long extinct species that have ruins littered all over the place. It's said that they had flat faces, no beak, fangs, or claws and only had hair on top of their heads.", answered Otulissa.

"No wonder they went extinct.", commented Twilight. Then a look of shock came on Alanine's face and then to Balin beaked the word 'humans'.

"So why did they go extinct?" asked Alanine.

"No one knows. It is one of the ancient mysteries that will most likely go unanswered till the end of time.", answered Otulissa. "Now let's go." she then lead them to a hollow not far from the platform they landed on when the Band first got to the Tree. There inside the hollow was a female Short-eared owl darting all over the place and several hatchlings. "Matron."

"Oh good you're here.", said Matron. "For those of you who don't know, I am Matron, Head Healer and ryb of the Healing chaw. Now a lot of you may not know, but in addition to healing wounded owls, we also take care of young ones that for one reason or another have no parents. Which brings me to your assignment for tonight. You will each be in charge of taking care of one of these hatchlings until brakelight." She then turned to the hatchlings. "Alright kids, chose your caretaker." Then the hatchlings swarmed toward them.

"Balin!", said a Barn hatchling that jumped onto him. Balin instantly recognized him as Shard.

"Hey Shard.", said Balin.

"Friend of yours?", asked Alanine.

"Alanine!", said a Snowy hatchling that jumped on Alanine. He recognized him as Spells.

"Friend of your's?', asked Balin in a joking manner.

"This is Spells. I meet him that day me and Soren went looking for you.", answered Alanine.

"This is Shard. I meet him that same day.", replied Balin.

"And now we get to spend all night together.", said Shard excitedly. "Yay!"

"Yep, the four of us.", replied Balin.

"Four?", asked Shard.

"Yeah, Alanine and Spells will be with us too.", answered Balin.

"So what do you two want to do first?", asked Alanine.

"How about some exploring? Maybe we can find something to trade with Mags.", offered Spells.

"Yeah, let's do that.", said Shard.

"Alright then, we'll explore the beach and see what we can find.", said Alanine. They then turned their backs to them. "Climb on and we'll fly over there." Shard and Spells quickly climbed on their backs and held on to them.

"Hold on tight.", said Balin. They then took off at a very fast speed. At first, Shard and Spells were afraid from the rush of speed, but then Balin and Alanine slowed down once they were in the air. They lifted their heads up and felt the wind rush through their down.

"We're flying. We're flying!", cried out Shard.

"We're finally flying!", yelled Spells. Balin and Alanine chuckled softly.

"Not quite yet.", said Alanine. They then took their sweet time flying to the beach and landed there. After they landed, Shard and Spells hopped off of them.

"That was amazing!", said Shard.

"I can't wait to fly on my own.", said Spells.

"It will happen. Sooner than you think.", said Alanine.

"Now let's get some exploring done.", said Balin. Several hours went by, finding and gathering shells and shiny stones. Then Balin and Alanine's stomachs began to grumble. "Look's like it's time for some lunch."

"But we aren't hungry yet.", complained Shard before he and Spells stomachs also grumbled.

"Really, your stomachs are telling us a different story.", said Balin. They all laughed at this. "I get it, you two don't want to leave yet."

"Hey I have an idea, we could eat right here. Balin could find some food and I could start a fire for us to cook it.", suggested Alanine.

"I like that plan.", committed Shard. "I'll go with Balin to find food."

"And me and Alanine will get the fire started.", said Spells. Balin and Shard went toward the roots to find food.

"I saw some chipmunks over here earlier.", said Balin. They then looked around until they heard movement among the roots. They then crept slowly to a hole in the roots and found several chipmunks.

"Jackpot.", whispered Balin.

Back with Alanine and Spells, they had just finish finding a large amount of dry driftwood and created a small fire pit.

"So how are we going to start the fire? We don't have any coals to ignite it.", asked Spells.

"Like this.", answered Alanine as he summoned his Keyblade. "Stand behind me." Alanine waited for Spells to get behind him before casting Fira on the wood. They now had a nice fire going and Spells looked at Alanine in awe.

"You know magic?', asked Spells in amazement.

"Yes I do.", answered Alanine.

"Do you think you can teach me?", asked Spells. "I know a little. Here watch this." He then picked up a small stick and pointed it toward the sea. "Blizzard." A small wisp of ice came of the end of the stick.

"Not bad for someone so young.", said Alanine. "It may not be much now, but someday it will be like this." He then cast Blizzard toward the sea and froze a small piece. "I can teach you some of the words, but it is up to to practice them and grow stronger. You ready." Spells nodded. "This is a basic, but very useful, one. Fire!" His fire spell hit the ice and melted a portion of it. "Now you try." Spells pointed his stick at the ice and took a deep breath.

"Fire!", said Spells. A small puff of flame came from the stick and melted a small piece of it.

"Good job Spells.", complemented Alanine.

"I agree.", said Balin as he and Shard returned with a load of chipmunks. "But enough practise for now, let's get these things cooking." They then quickly prepared and cooked the chipmunks and began eating them.

"The stars sure are pretty tonight.", commented Spells after they had their fill.

"You know they say every star in the sky is hole to Glaumora, and the spirits of those who came before us watch us from them.", said Shard.

"But Keyblade wielders have something different.", said Balin.

"They say that every star in the sky is the heart of a world. It's light shining down on us. As long as the world exists, it's heart will shine in the night sky.", said Alanine. "But who really knows for sure?"

"No one.", answered Shard in a joking manner. They laughed at this.

"But maybe you two can. After all you two are all powerful Keyblade wielders.", said Spells.

"We are strong, but not all powerful.", said Alanine. "But thanks for the complement. Now let's get back to exploring." They spent a few more hours searching for things, then Shard tripped on something in the sand.

"You ok Shard?', asked Balin with concern.

"I'm ok, but there is something in the sand.", answered Shard. They began digging in the spot, but found that whatever it was that Shard tripped on, was buried deep with only the tip sticking out.

"Stand back guys.", ordered Alanine. The others stepped back and then Alanine cast Zero-gravity on the object and lifted it out of the sand. The object turned out to be a very large chest with, not one but, two locks on it.

"How are we going to get this open?", asked Shard.

"Leave that to us.", answered Bain as he summoned his Keyblade. He and Alanine then pointed their Keyblades at the chest and the two locks vanished from the chest and open a crack. They lifted the lid the rest of the way to reveal that it was filled to the brim with shards, stones, gems, and crystals.

"Wow.", said Balin. "Who knows what we could do with all this."

"But how are we going to carry it all?", asked Spells.

"We've got that covered." answered Alanine as he pulled out the then transferred all the stuff in the chest into the bag. "It's getting kinda late, we should probably take you two back now." Shard and Spells groaned at this.

"But that doesn't mean that we can't hang out tomorrow.", said Balin cheering them up. "Hop on and we'll fly back." Shard and Spells then hopped on their backs and they all flew back to Matron and dropped off Shard and Spells and then headed off to brakelight. When they got there they found the rest of the Band, Otulissa, and Ruby were already there and, except for Soren, were completely drained.

"What happened to you guys?", asked Balin.

"Hatchlings.", groaned Twilight in response.

"They just somehow drain all the energy out of you.", said Otulissa. "How Matron does it, I will never know."

"It wasn't that bad. Well at least for us. We had a great time with ours.", said Alanine.

"Yeah, great.", said Soren softly.

"What's wrong Soren?", asked Balin with concern.

"Being with my hatchling reminded me of Eg. I miss her so much.", answered Soren. Balin and Alanine wrapped their wings around him.

"It's ok Soren. Maybe someday soon, you two will be reunited.", said Alanine.

"Then she and your parents can come here and live at the tree. We could show her around and she could meet and be friends with Shard and Spells.", said Balin.

"Yeah, I think she would like that.", said Soren as he cheered up. "And I know that Ma and Da would like it here too. Thanks."

"Hey what are friends for.", replied Balin. "Now let's eat before it get's too late."

(The next night)

"Wake up. Wake up Balin.", said a voice to sleeping Balin. "Wake up! Wake up, wake up, wake up." Balin opened his eyes and saw that it was Shard trying to wake him.

"Ug, Shard, what time is it.", asked a half asleep Balin.

"The sun is still setting.", answered Alanine as he and Spells entered the hollow.

"And how long have you been up?", asked Balin.

"A hour or two", answered Alanine. "I got up, started training, and then Spells joined me."

"And he told me to let you sleep for a bit before waking you up.", said Shard. "So I did."

"Alright then.", said Balin as he got up and stretched. "So do you guys know when Trader Mags gets here?"

"She'll be here in a few hours.", answered Alanine. "But hey, that doesn't mean that we can't get some practice in today before she get's here."

"That sounds like an excellent idea.", said Balin as he turned his head to Shard as a mischievous grin came on his face. "Come on Shard, let's go train."

(A Hour later) "Come on Shard, keep up!", Balin yelled back to Shard. He and Shard were on a long run around the beach with Balin a large distance ahead of Shard. Then Alanine flew next to Balin.

"Your doing this to make him pay for getting you up so early, aren't you?", asked Alanine.

"Just a little.", answered Balin.

"Well just take it a little easier on him. After all, he is still only a hatchling.", replied Alanine.

"You're no fun. But alright, I'll stop.", answered Balin. "Ok, that's enough running for now." He then stopped and waited for Shard to catch up. When he finally did, he stopped and tried to catch his breath. "You ok?"

"I'm…. fine.", answered Shard between breaths.

"Ready for the next part?", asked Balin.

"Yeah. Let's do it.", answered Shard.

"Then catch.", said Balin as he tossed a stick to Shard. Shard caught it in his talons. "Pretend that is your blade and mimic my swings." He then summoned his Keyblade. He then performed a horizontal slash, which Shard mimicked perfectly. Balin followed it with a couple diagonal slashes and then an overhead smash. Shard perfectly mimicked that too. Soon Balin was able to continuously hack and slash with Shard always right behind him. This went on for several hours. Then Alanine and Spells came over to them.

"Hey guys, Trader Mags is here and is unloading her goods.", said Alanine. "Come on, let's go."

"Right behind you.", said Balin. He then turned to Shard. "And Shard, you did good today. Keep that up and I know that you will be a master of the blade in no time."

"Really?", asked Shard as he hopped on Balin's back.

"Yeah really.", answered Balin. "You have a lot of potential in the blade just as Spells has potential in magic."

"Thanks Balin.", said Shard. Balin then took off and followed Alanine and Spells to the main landing platform. There was a Black-billed Magpie with a shiny blue bandanna with white spots on it and a collection of rings around her ankles, unloading a colorful assortment of things from her bag. She looked up from her task and at them.

"Hello, I don't recall seeing you four before. You must be new to the Tree." said the magpie before she stretched her talons to them. "I'm Trader Mags, at your service." Balin took her talons and shock them.

"I'm Balin and this is Alanine, Shard, and Spells. It is very nice to meet you.", said Balin.

"Same here, it is always a pleasure to meet new customers.", said Trader Mags. "Is there anything in particular that you are looking for?"

"Well, do you have anything that a Keyblade wielder can use?", asked Alanine.

"Keyblade wielder? Why do you ask? That hasn't been a wielder for hundreds of years.", asked Mags.

"Because you are looking at two.", answered Alanine as he and Balin presented their Keyblades to her.

"So that is what a Keyblade looks like.", said Mags in awe. "I may not have something incredibly useful for combat, but if you have some syntheses items, you know shards and stuff, I could make something out of them."

"You mean things like this?", asked Balin as he pulled out a Fire Crystal out of their bag.

"Yes exactly, but you need more than just a Fire Crystal.", answered Mags.

"We have a lot more. But what kinds of things can you make?", replied Alanine.

"Lots of different things. I learned the art of syntheses from the Moogles.", answered Mags. "They once came to my neck of the woods needing supplies, but they didn't have anything to trade. So they taught me syntheses in trade for the supplies. If you have six Mythril Stones, two Power Stones, a Dark Stone, two Dark Shards, and a Power Shard, I could make a couple of powerful rings for you." Balin and Alanine fished out the items that Trader Mags had named off. "Good. Now it may take me a little bit before they are done. Is there anything else I maybe able to interest you in?"

"Do you have anything for these two?", asked Balin, gesturing to Shard and Spells.

"I think I have just the thing.", answered Mags. "Bubbles, Bring that bag from our last stop!" Then another female magpie came over in a hurry, carrying a bag in her talons. "This is my apprentice, Bubbles."

"Here is the bag you requested Ms. Mags.", said Bubbles as she handed the bag to her. She then went back to unloading the other merchandise. Trader Mag then took out a small wooden sword and staff, along with a couple of rings. One ring was thin and silver, covered with strange ruins, and a small red gem in it. The other was thick and silver and had a crown design on it.

"These are perfect for a young one in training. The sword will help build strength and the staff magic. Same with the rings. They aren't super strong though, but good for those just starting out.", explained Mags.

"How much?", asked Balin.

"Seashells are in high demand at my next stop, do you have a bunch of those?", asked Mags.

"A large bunch at that.", replied Balin as he fished out the shells that they had collected yesterday.

"Then we have a deal.", answered Mags as she grabbed the shells. Balin and Alanine grabbed the items. Balin handed the sword and thin ring to Shard and Alanine gave the staff and thick ring to Spells.

"Thanks guys.", said Shard and Spells.

"You guys earned it.", replied Alanine. Just then, the snowy they had meet several days ago landed.

"Madam Plonk, it is always a pleasure to see you.", said Mags.

"And it is good to see that you finally arrived, late as usual.", replied Madam Plonk. "So do you have anything good for me?"

"Now you're just insulting my talents.", said Mags. "Of course I have something good." She then turned to the group. "Is there anything else I can do for you, right now?"

"We'll just browse around and see if there is anything else we like.", answered Balin.

"Just find me or Bubbles if you find anything you want.", said Mags before she grabbed one of her bags and went over to Madam Plonk. Balin, Alanine, Shard and Spells then spent the next few hours browsing at what Trader Mags had to offer. They didn't find anything too interesting until Shard found what looked like a piece of black glass, but they could tell that it wasn't.

"What is this?", asked Shard.

"It is a kind of stone called mica.", answered Bubbles, who heard the question. "It is like glass in many aspects and is really pretty when you shine light through it. Here I'll show you." Shard handed the stone to Bubbles, who then held the stone up to the moon. The light shined beautifully through the stone, but as they looked, Shard sensed that this stone was somehow important and they needed to get it now.

"What do you want for the stone?", asked Shard.

"Do you have some sea-stones? Stones for stones would be a fair trade.", answered Bubbles. Balin fished several sea-stones from the bag and handed them to Bubbles. Bubbles then handed the mica to him. Balin then turned to Shard and gave him the mica.

"Why did you want the mica?", asked Alanine.

"Something in my gizzard is telling me that this mica is important.", answered Shard. Satisfied with this answer, they returned to looking at stuff but did not find anything of real interest. Then Trader Mags came over to them.

"It is time for me to go now, but here is the items I made from those materials.", said Mags as she handed two rings to them. The one Balin got was thin, had ruins on it, and three yellow stones in it. The one that Alanine got was thick, blue, and had the same crown as the one Shard got. "These will really improve your strength and magic."

"Thanks.", said Balin and Alanine.

"I is just what I do. See you next time. And hey if you ever need my or just what to buy something, you can come to my place in Silverveil.", replied Mags before she took off.

"It is getting kinda late. We should properly hit the down.", said Alanine.

"Ok, goodlight.", replied Shard and Spells.

(The next night) Balin and Alanine awoke to find the hollow empty.

"The others must have already gone.", said Alanine.

"I wonder why Shard and Spells didn't wake us up.", said Balin.

"They may have slept in.", said Alanine. Then a mischievous grin came on Balin's face. "You want to wake them up, don't you?"

"If they are asleep, but they may be awake. But either way, we should go check on them.", answered Balin.

"Right.", said Alanine in a tone that said 'I can't believe you'. They then went to Spells' hollow (This is because it was closer than Shard's). But when they arrived there, there was no one to be seen. They then went to Shard's and found it the same way.

"Maybe they are at the beach training.", suggested Balin. They then headed to the area they had trained them before, but only found prints in the sand. "They aren't here."

"But they were here recently.", said Alanine.

"How do you know?", asked Balin.

"Look at the tracks. See how most of them have been disturbed by the wind and sea.", responded Alanine. "But over here we have a set of tracks that haven't been disturbed yet and are their size. Which from that we can assume that they were here recently. All we have to do to find them is follow the tracks." They then followed the trail until it lead to a large stone surrounded by root and disappeared. "This doesn't make sense."

"It does to me. Help me move this stone.", said Balin. Working together, they successfully moved the boulder to reveal a tunnel hidden behind it and the trail continuing inside. "They must have squeezed past to get in. But how did they even find it in the first place?"

"Only one way to find out, come on." responded Alanine. They continued down the tunnel to a large chamber. Inside the chamber was Shard and Spells and a couple of vanishing wisps of what looked like mist. When they got closer, they saw that Shard and Spells were starting to cry.

"Are you two ok?", asked Balin.

"We saw them.", answered Shard with looking back at them. "They haven't reach Glamora yet."

"Who?", asked Alanine.

"Our parents.", answered Spells as he and Shard turned around. "They lead us here and said that it must be sealed. Then they vanished. They are trapped and there is nothing we can do." Then he and Shard ran up to them and hugged them tight and crying. Balin and Alanine wrapped their wings around them to comfort them.

"There may not be anything you can do, but maybe there is something we can do.", said Balin. "We will do anything we can to help them. We promise."

"Do you... do you really think you can help them?", asked Shard.

"Yes, somehow we will help them move on.", answered Alanine. "But the best thing that you two can do now is to dry those tears and live your lives to the fullest. They would want you two to be happy."

"Your right.", said Spells as he and Shard let got and wiped their tears away. "Thank you."

"What are friends for, right.", replied Balin. "Now come on, let's go see if there is anything left in the dining hollow. Nothing can perk one up like a good meal." They then began to leave but just as they neared the exit, Balin and Alanine heard something behind them. They turned around only to the the root covered wall on the opposite side of the room and nothing more. They then proceeded to leave the tunnel and close it back up with the stone.

(After a good meal and several hours of training) "Your getting better Shard.", shouted Balin as he blocked another attack from Shard.

"You are also getting much better Spells.", shouted Alanine as he deflected another fireball from him. Just then, the rest of the Band, Ruby and Otulissa landed on the beach.

"Oh hey guys.", said Balin as he continued to block Shard's attacks. "What's up?"

"It's almost time for lighting the lanterns.", answered Soren. "If we want some, we have to go soon."

"Well then,", said Shard as he and Spells hoped on Balin and Alanine. "let's go then."

"You heard the hatchling, let's go.", said Alanine as they took off. Otulissa then lead them to a near by storage hollow that had a ton of lanterns in it. They appeared to be made of leave and small vines. They then each grabbed at least one lantern each and went to the top branches of the tree. Soon the sky became filled with the lanterns, casting a golden light on the tree. Together, Balin and Alanine cast two lanterns into the air.

"Who are they?", asked Shard.

"Their names are Grimble…", respond Balin.

"And Hortense.", finished Alanine. "They sacrificed themselves to save us from the Pure Ones. If it weren't for them, we wouldn't be standing here."

"I wish we could have meet them.", said Spells.

"Us too.", said Balin. They spent the rest of the night looking at the lanterns in the sky.

(The next night after tweener) "Today we have Combat and Spell Casting caws tonight.", said Otulissa. "It should be pretty interesting."

"We have both?", asked Alanine.

"Yes. You see most owls will be better at one or the other, so therefore they usually go on at the same time.", answered Otulissa.

"Ok, so who is teaching?", asked Balin.

"I have no clue, no one will tell me anything.", answered Otulissa.

"Well only one way to find out, let's go.", said Balin before he and the rest took off. They went to a large chamber inside the tree. Inside was a multitude of weapons along the walls as well as practice dummies. Also inside was two owls waiting for them. The first was an old but strong snowy owl that wore a tattered red scarf around his neck. He also had what looked like weighted brasers on his legs and a long, thin sword in a sheath attached to his back. The other owl was an old but capable looking Pygmy owl. He wore a necklace with several different colored crystals on it and had a white hooded cloak on. In his talons was an ancient looking staff made of a material that Balin and Alanine didn't recognize. They seemed to just radiate with power.

"I can't believe it's them.", said Otulissa in a whisper. "They only come to teach the best of the best."

"Who are they?", asked Balin.

"You don't know?", asked Otulissa in surprise. "They are only two legendary warriors from the Northern Kingdoms. The snowy is Master Ragnarok Bloodblade, master of the blade and the pygmy is Master Eric Iceclaw, master of magic. They both fought in the same war Lyze of Kiel did."

"I heard about them. They say Ragnarok's blade was forged from a fallen star and crafted just for him by Orf, the blacksmith of Dark Fowl Island.", said Soren.

"I heard that Eric's staff is a relic from an ancient time that give the wielder unimaginable power.", said Gylfie.

"I heard that Ragnarok's scarf was once white as his coat, until it was bathed in the blood of his enemies.", said Twilight.

"The staff may give power, but it is not unimaginable.", said Ragnarok. "And the scarf thing is completely untrue."

"We may be old, but we have hearing like Barns.", said Eric. "Now which two of you are the Keyblade wielders?"

"We are master.", replied Balin as he and Alanine stepped up.

"So you two are the wielders we have heard so much about.", said Ragnarok. "Summon your keys." They then presented their Keyblades to them. "This should shape up to be a good challenge."

"What challenge?", asked Alanine.

"A duel between the two of us and the two of you.", answered Eric. "We think that you may have the potential to reach the highest of levels and we would like to take you two there."

"But first you must be tested.", said Ragnarok. "So are you ready to face us?"

"Ready as we will ever be.", said Balin and Alanine as the got into battle stances.

"Unleash all your power.", said Ragnarok as he rushed forward unsheathing his blade at femnomable speed. Balin and Alanine barely had enough time to raise their Keyblades to block the attack, which sent them back.

"Impressive, very few can say they were fast enough to block my opening strike." He then charged forward at Balin, who dodge-rolled out of the way just in time. At the same time, Eric sent a large fireball at Alanine, who then countered by firing a Blizzard at it and dissipating it. He then charged forward and swung at Eric, who raised his staff in defence and stopping the attack cold. He then pushed Alanine into Balin, causing both the fall to the ground. Ragnarok then dived down at them and hit them with a long stream of combos as Eric sent waves of magic at them, the two alternating and not giving Balin and Alanine a chance to recover. Soon, Balin and Alanine were covered with wounds and lay flat on the ground.

"Do you submit?', asked Eric.

"No, never.", said Balin as he and Alanine struggled to their feet. Alanine quickly cast Cure on them and then they clashed their Keyblades to from Golden Light. They then began sending the blades of light at Ragnarok and Eric. At first, they were able to block their attacks, but as Balin and Alanine speed up, their defence bergan to brake and the attacks began to make contact. They were able to deal a big chunk of damage before the fusion weapon timed out. By then, both sides were worse for wear.

"We have seen what we needed.", said Ragnarok as he sheathed his blade. "You both have proven yourselves strong of will and body. Come to us if you ever need some training with an opponent and the training hall is open for you to use whenever you wish."

"Now let's heal up. Curaga.", said Eric as a green light enveloped all four of them as all of their wounds healed. "That is all for tonight."

(Meanwhile in the stronghold of the Pure Ones) The owl from before stood on his throne before his troops as the moon shined behind him. "My soldiers, my sons, many of you have heard of me in late day whispering, but I assure you I am not a myth.", began the owl. "I am real and I stand before you with one simple truth. The strong shall rule the weak. Long ago, I was viciously attacked by the coward Lyze of Kiel for defending that truth. Now I wear this mask to conceal my scars, but the metal is strong. It is a symbol of the Pure Ones strength and resolve. It is time to set a fire that will consume the Owl Kingdoms and take back what is rightfully ours, for we are tytos. We are Pure Ones. And I am Metalbeak!" The soldier then began chanting Metalbeak's name over and over. Off to the side, Kludd was also chanting Metalbeak's name with Eglantine and and armored Max beside him. Max's armor was very much like Balin and Alanine's save for a few differences. His armor was jet black with blood red for the designs and his claws were not battle claws, but fire claws (Fire claws are like battle claws except they have small pieces of embers in the talons so they slash and burn at the same time. They are looked down upon since they also warp the user's own talons.).

"Kludd.", said Eglantine. "I miss Ma and Da. I'm scared."

"Don't be. You're with me now. Eglantine this is our home now. They really appreciate us here.", responded Kludd.

"Please, can we just go find Soren?", asked Eglantine.

"Forget about Soren. Soren's weak. We're tytos. Pure Ones.", answered Kludd.

"Kludd, I promise not to tell anyone what you're doing here. I just want to go home.", said Eglantine.

"Alright.", responded Kludd.

"So we can go? When?", asked Eglantine.

"Tomorrow.', answered Kludd. "But first tonight, just sleep."

(The next night and back at Ga'Hoole) The Band awoke to find a storm raging with all it's might outside.

"I sure hope we don't have to fly in that.", said Balin. They then made their way to the dining hollow where Ezylryb was waiting for them.

"Tonight I will be teaching you how to fly in storms and as luck would have it, we have a perfect one right here. I want each of you to eat at least one raw vole before we go. Gotta have those gizzards working before heading out into a storm. I will be waiting for you on the main platform.", said Ezylryb. They quickly eat their raw vole and then went to the main platform and took off with Ezylryb. Within seconds of takeoff, they were completely soaked, and yet Ezylryb was in a great mood. "Feel the gutters. The currents in the rain. A scupper! A swillage! Baggywrinkles!"

"Baggywrinkles? He could have at least given us a vocabulary list.", complained Otulissa.

"Good to know that we aren't the only ones completely lost.", responded Alanine.

"Now this, this is the way to learn!", said Ezylryb.

"Yes, this how I want to learn, in a monsoon!", yelled Digger.

"You see the currents warm in different ways from the sky to the ocean. You can't fight them, you have to feel them with your gizzard.", continued Ezylryb. Then Soren began flying ahead. "You see that one. Soren see it, it's there. Go for it." Soren continued on as the wind began to swirl. "That's it, use your gizzard boy! Trust it! Fly inside!" Soren then began flying spectacularly (If you haven't seen this scene, I highly recommend you do.). "He sees it. He sees it." Soren continued to fly beautifully. "Hold it. Hold it." Soren then tried to pull out of what he was doing and lost control and began tumbling toward the sea. Ezylryb quickly went into a dive toward Soren, but was passed by Balin and Alanine, who also had also went into a steep dive for Soren and using the air currents to boost them. The moment they were beneath him, they pulled out of the dive, sending an up draft which stabilized Soren's flight, only a few feet above the crests of the waves.

"You ok Soren?", asked Balin.

"I'm fine. Thanks for the save.", answered Soren.

"Anytime, just please don't make a habit of it.", replied Alanine.

"I think I can manage that.", replied Soren.

"Alright, let's head back to the tree.", said Ezylryb. They then followed him back to the tree and shook as much water out of their feathers. "I want each of you to research common weather terms and what they mean for next time." They then turned to leave, but Ezylryb stopped Soren, Balin and Alanine. "I need to discuss what happened out there with the three of you. Follow me to my hollow." They did as instructed and followed him to his hollow. Inside was a large amount of books all over the place as well as instruments that looked complicated.

"I don't understand what happened out there.", said Soren. "We flew a great way out here and it was nothing like this."

"You have no reason to worry boy.", responded Ezylryb as he wrote something down on an empty page in one of the books. "I confess, I guided you into that current on purpose. I wanted to test your gizzard. You three were exemplary."

"Exemplary. No, no. I nearly had my wings ripped off.", said Soren. "My head said to do one thing while my gizzard said to do another."

"And you trusted your head.", replied Ezylryb as he stamped something down in the book. "That's when you failed."

"Wait, is that your mark?", asked Soren.

"This, yes.", answered Ezylryb.

"You wrote The Chronicle of the Battle of the Ice Claws?", asked Soren.

"Yes.", answered Ezylryb.

"Were you there?", asked Soren.

"Yes.", answered Ezylryb.

"As a scribe?", asked Soren.

"No, as a soldier. Well I guess you could say the leader of all the soldiers.", answered Ezylryb.

"You're Lyze of Kiel?", said Soren.

"Yes.", answered Ezylryb.

"You! You're Lyze of Kiel?", said Balin and Alanine in astonishment.

"Yes, yes. Don't wear it out.", replied Ezylryb. Alanine then noticed a pair of old battle claws hung on a peg in the far corner of the room. "Those old things, their only good for gathering coals now."

"But why go by Ezylryb?", asked Alanine.

"All the owls at the tree know who I am.", answered Ezylryb. "Lyze of Kiel died of his wounds many years ago and left me in his place. And that battle is nothing more that a distant memory that can only come back as a daymare. Except funnily enough for young owls like you three."

"Why didn't you tell us?", asked Soren.

"What difference does it make what I call myself?", responded Ezylryb.

"Because Lyze of Kiel was my hero.", answered Soren.

"Well it must be hard seeing that your hero is real and not myth.", replied Ezylryb.

"It's just that…", started Soren.

"Well what did you expect? Some tyto alba with gleaming battle claws, moon rising behind him?', said Ezylryb. "Well this is what it looks like when you have actually fought in battle. It's not glorious. It's not beautiful. It's not even heroic. It's merely doing what's right, and doing it again and again. Even if someday you look like this." Just then, a gong began ringing. "Somethings wrong. You three go to the main landing platform. I will go see Boron." They quickly did as ordered and flew to the main landing platform, where a small crowd had assembled. Among the crowd, they say Otulissa.

"What's going on Otulissa?", asked Balin.

"Allomere has returned with a couple of rescued hatchlings. I think he's hurt.", answered Otulissa. "I think he ran into some of those Pure Ones you talked about."

"Soren!", yelled someone farther in the crowd. It turned out to be Mrs.P. "Soren come fast! It's Eglantine!"

"Eglantine.", whispered Soren before he started trying to push past to the front. Balin and Alanine helped him get to the front. There inside a basket was two young hatchlings: a barn and pygmy and both Moonblinked. "Eg. Oh, Eg." Then Barron landed next to him. "Can you help her."

"We will do our best Soren.", answered Barron. "Take them to the Infirmary." One on the owls grabbed the basket and flew off. Then a look of anger came on Soren's face.

"I know what the face means Soren and whatever you are thinking on doing, it's a bad idea.", said Balin. "I know you're angry, but don't do anything stupid. Alanine back me up." But Alanine had seam to have vanished.
"I am going to talk to Ezylryb. He'll take me with him to battle.", said Soren before he took off.

"No Soren, wait.", yelled Balin as he went after him. He then continued to try to talk some sense into Soren as they flew back to Ezylryb's hollow. There Ezylryb was putting his helmet on.

"Not a bad fit.", said Ezylryb.

"Ezylryb, please talk some sense into Soren.", asked Balin.

"Please, you have to take me with you.", said Soren.

"Oh absolutely. An untrained youth like you will last a whole minute in a real battle. Here…", said Ezylryb sarcastically as he tossed his old claws to Soren. "Come along or you can stay here and tend to your sister and do some real good. But what do I know. I'm just a tired, old screech." He then flew off to join the rest of the Guardians that were flying out. Soren looked down at the claws he had left.

"Soren please, listen to reason.", pleaded Balin.

"You're right. You both are.", said Soren. "It's just… they have taken my brother, separated me from my parents, and hurt my little sister. How can I not be angry and want revenge!?"

"To not be angry would to not be you. To take vengeance would to be no longer you. You'd be just as bad as them.", replied Balin. "I have to go find Alanine, you should go to Eg." Balin then took off for the training room, thinking that was were he was. When he got there, he was slightly surprised at what he found. Alanine stood panting in the middle of the room with his Keyblade in his talons and all round him was a massacre of practice dummies, all completely destroyed in several different ways. "You ok bro?"

"It is our fault.", responded Alanine. "If we had gone with Allomere…"

"Then we would have fallen. Remember, he was the only one to come back. And if we fall, there is no hope for the universe, no hope for Sora, no hope for Max. So pull yourself together, for Soren's sake.", interrupted Balin.

"How is it that you are so good at cheering people up?", asked Alanine.

"It's a gift.", answered Balin. Then the two began laughing. Then Soren came in really fast and wearing Ezylryb's battle claws. "What's wrong Soren?"

"The Guardians are in danger. I'll explain on the way.", said Soren hastily. They quickly followed him and were joined by the rest of the Band and started flying out toward the mainland.

"What kind of danger are the Guardians in?", asked Balin.

"A trap and a turnfeather (owl traiter).", answered Soren. "During my visit with Eg, Shard came in and asked to give her a piece of a stone he called mica. light shined through it and broke the Moonblink. She told me.. she told me Kludd was the one who did it and he gave her to Allomere."

"But that would mean...", stared Balin.

"The Guardians are heading straight into a trap.", finished Soren.

"Well then let's hurry.", said Alanine.

(After flying hard to the St. Aegolius Canyons) The Guardians had reached the Pure Ones' base and had found where they were keeping the hatchlings and owlets. Then several Eclipsed called Bloodsuckers attacked. They were shaped like regular bats, have red eyes that give an expression of anger, and the Eclipsed symbol on it's back. The Guardians quickly defeated the Bloodsuckers and landed near the young ones when two more Bloodsuckers hit a kind of switch mechanism, which opened three metal spheres that were in a triangle around the area. As the metal spheres opened, Allomere, who had held back, started flying away. Inside the spheres was Flecks and black pillars. The three points connected in a formation called The Devil's Triangle, increasing their power. The power of the Flecks pinned the Guardians down and made them writhe in pain.

(Elsewhere in the canyons) The Band had reached the canyons and was approaching the Pure Ones' base the same way the Guardians had, when Balin and Alanine sensed a great pain from the Guardians.

"We're too late, the trap had been sprung.", said Alanine. "And whatever it is, it is causing them all to be in great pain."

"It must be the Flecks.", said Soren. "But where are they?"

"I don't know. We can't pinpoint them.", answered Balin.

"Then we should check out that smoke. The Guardians should be somewhere near.", replied Soren. They started flying toward the fire when Gylfie spotted something. They flew toward it and found it was the Guardians in the Devil's Triangle.

"We have to get them out of there!", said Balin.

"But if we go in after them, we'll just get trapped.", said Gylfie.

"Hey guys, we have bats inbound.", said Digger as a large swarm of what looked like bats started heading their way.

"I don't think those are bats. I think those are more Eclipsed.", replied Alanine.

"Don't worry, I can down a hundred of those things.", said Twilight.

"How about a thousand?', asked Digger as more and more Bloodsuckers joined the swarm.

"Well we won't find out sitting on our tail feathers, now will we. Come on.", replied Twilight.

"Wait, just wait.", said Gylfie. Soren was looking intensely at the forest fire.

"What is it Soren?", asked Alanine.

"The flames, thats it.", said Soren. "I think I see a way to free the Guardians."

"No Soren, you can't fly into fire!", exclaimed Gylfie.

"I have to trust my gizzard Gylfie. But I need you guys to buy me some time.", replied Soren.

"We will buy as much time as we can, but hurry.", said Balin as he and the others took off toward the mass of Bloodsuckers. As they approached the enemy, Twilight began singing in a very loud, booming voice.

"You call yourselves Eclipsed. I'll scatter you like mist. And when I'm done, there be nothing left for dung. One, two, three, four, you'll be a stain on the floor. Five, six, seven, eight, you can't beat Twilight the Great. Nine, ten, eleven, twelve, go to where you should dwell.", sang Twilight. The singing disoriented the Bloodsuckers' hearing, and made them easier targets. Twilight hit them with his metal lute, Gylfie and Digger used their bare talons, Balin hacked away at them, and Alanine unleashed wave after wave of magic at them. A short distance away, Nyra saw what was transpiring.

"No, no! You promised that you'd bring all the Guardians!', yelled Nyra at Allomere.

"But, they aren't Guardians.", replied Allomere.

"Soren.", said Kludd with a hint of disgust in his voice.

"They have no chance against the Flecks.", said Metalbeak. "Still, I don't think we can trust you anymore Allomere."

"No. No, no, no. You promised me, you promised me I would be king of the Tree!", yelled Allomere before several Bloodsucker attacked him and started dragging him off.

"You should know Allomere, there is only room for one king.", said Metalbeak.

Back with our heroes, the overwhelming number of Bloodsuckers were starting to not only wear them down, but also get past them to and into the Devil's Triangle.

"We'll need a miracle to save us now.", said Balin. Just then, Soren appeared from above a ridge, in his talons was a flaming pot of some combustible substance, his battle claws gleaming in the light of the fire, and the moon rising behind him. "Hello miracle."

"Isn't the words that Ezylryb use can now describe Soren?"., asked Alanine out loud.

"I think Ezylryb maybe a psychic.", replied Balin. Then Soren went into a deep dive and entered the Devil's Triangle. "Soren!" Soren continued to dive till he got close to the switch mechanism and then threw the pot at it and exploded. Soren then had a rough landing as the mechanism burned and was destroyed. The metal spheres closed and the Devil's Triangle dissipated. Balin, Alanine and the rest of them landed near the Guardians as the rest of the Bloodsuckers vanished. The Guardians then began getting back on their feet.

"Pure Ones attack! Crush them, before they can recover!", yelled Metalbeak as Nyra and his soldiers went out and began flying toward the Guardians.

"That voice, it can't be.", said Ezylryb. "Soren, I am going to need those battle claws."

"Use ours.", said Balin as he handed their pair to them. Ezylryb quickly put them on. "I need you six to stay here and guard these young ones." He and the rest of the Guardians then flew off to confront the Pure Ones. It was obvious that the Pure Ones outnumbered the Guardians, but soon after the battle began, it became obvious that the Pure Ones were way outmatched. A single Guardian was able to decimate an entire squad of Pure Ones.

"Kludd?", said Soren as spotted his brother among the fighting.

"Max!", exclaimed Balin and Alanine as they spotted him. They then flew into the battle: Soren to Kludd and Balin and Alanine to Max. They bobbed and weaved through the conflict but lost sight of them. Then out of nowhere, they attacked them and flung them into the burning forest: Soren to one part and Balin and Alanine to another that was close by.

"Hello brother.", said Kludd before he hit Soren out of nowhere. Balin and Alanine tired to make their way to Soren, but were attacked by Max. They raised their Keyblades in defence and continued to block Max's strikes as he relentlessly attacked them. As they continued to block Max's strikes, they heard Kludd and Soren talking.

"Your precious Guardians are finished Soren.", said Kludd as he hit Soren again. "The Pure Ones will triumph and take their rightful place as rulers of the Owl Kingdoms. Oh, it's going to be glorious."

"Glorious?", asked Soren in disbelief as he dodged and countered Kludd's next attack. "No the Pure Ones are monsters. You saw what they were doing. They were Moonblinking other owls and turning them into slaves."

"You're just weak Soren. Still living in your dreams.", replied Kludd as he swung and missed Soren again.

"No Kludd, it is my dreams that make me strong. They lead me to the Guardians.", said Soren.

"Well a pity that there won't be any Guardians after today.", replied Kludd as he attack one more. Soren dodged out of the way.

"I don't understand, how can you join them after what they did to us?", asked Soren.

"What they did to us?", asked Kludd in disbelief. "They believed in me like no one ever has. Metalbeak says the strong will triumph, the broken are put out of their misery, and honor… honor is another word for weakness!"

"No Kludd, I know you don't really think that!", yelled Soren.

"Then you don't know me at all.", said Kludd as he tackled Soren, sending both tumbling out of sight.

"Soren!", yelled Alanine. In that moment, Max's strike made contact and sent him flying (not literally) out of sight. He then turned to Balin and continued his assault. All Balin did was block his attacks.

"Fight back!", yelled Max. "Why will you not fight back!?"

"Because I refuse to fight a friend like this.", answered Balin.

"The Max you knew is gone.", said Max as he swung again.

"Then prove it.", replied Balin as he drove his Keyblade into the ground and left his chest exposed. Max raised his Lanceshield to attack and then brought it down.

"Balin, no!", yelled Alanine as he tried to reach him. At the last second, the attack stopped centimeters away from Balin's chest. Then in a golden light appeared, a spectral Max that was their friend. He too wore armor, but his was his normal colors and battle claws.

"No! I will not hurt my friends!", yelled the spectral Max. "Balin, Alanine, I need you two to knock me out. It's the only way. I can't hold back much longer." Balin summoned his Keyblade.

"Sorry about this.", said Balin before he hit Max over the head with the blunt side of the key, knocking him out cold. As his physical form became unconscious, the spectral Max vanished.

"How did you know he wouldn't end you right then and there?", asked Alanine.

"I didn't, but somehow my heart did. It knew that he wouldn't let his darkness hurt me if I gave him the right push.", answered Balin. "Now help me carry him out of here."

"Then we need to help Soren.", said Alanine as he and Balin distributed Max's weigh between them. "He's gone after Metalbeak."

"What!? By himself!? I told him not to do something crazy!", exclaimed Balin.

"He is just doing what anyone would if they lost their brother to someone.", said Alanine. "Kludd is no more." They quickly carry Max to the young ones and dropped him off there and then flew toward the base and there saw Soren down against a rock with a flaming branch near his talons and Metalbeak with his talons extended for a death blow. Then the two collided.

"Soren!", yelled Balin. Metalbeak began to laugh, but then fell over to the side revealing Soren to be unharmed and the broken flaming branch in his talons. Then darkness swirled around Metalbeak and when it cleared, all that was left was his mask. Then Nyra took to the air.

"Pure Ones, fall back to me!", ordered Nyra as she and her remaining forces fled from the battle. Balin, Alanine, and Ezylryb, now without his helmet, landed near Soren.

"Are you alright Soren?", asked Balin.

"I'm fine.", answered Soren, still in shock in what he just did.

"You did what was right Soren.", said Ezylryb. "It looks like I have my work cut out for me to capture every detail of your story. Then no one will talk of Lyze, but of the legendary Soren."

"But don't forget about his friends who helped him.", said Soren.

"Wouldn't dream of it.", replied Ezylryb. "Now let's go home." They went to where the young ones, their friends, and Guardians were waiting for them. There Balin, Alanine, and the rest of the Band stood before Boron.

"You six have saved us all. On behalf of everyone, I give you our thanks. You all have shown bravery beyond that of owls more than twice your age.", said Boron.

"Think nothing of it.", replied Soren.

"I do believe that these six are ready to be tapped for their chaws, Boron.", said Ezylryb.

"As you often are, you are right old friend.", replied Boron. "When we return to the Tree, you six and the rest of your group will be tapped for your chaws."

"Thank you Boron.", said Soren. They, with the rest of the Guardians, then began taking and flying the young ones and Max back to the Great Ga'Hoole Tree.

(During the journey back to the Tree) "Hey Ezylryb, you once said the Lyze died of his wounds long ago, yet we saw him tonight.", said Alanine.

"You saw his scroom returned to physical form. Brought back by an evil owl and an ancient promise.", replied Ezylryb.

"What was the promise?", asked Balin.

"To see that murderer dead. He had taken my entire family from me in a multitude of different ways. My parents, my little sister and brother, and my mate.", answered Ezylryb.

"Well that makes a lot of things make sense now.", said Alanine.

"Does it now?", asked Ezylryb. "Like what?"

"For starters, how you and Soren connected so easily: you are so much like each other.", replied Alanine. "Also why you'd break one of your oaths: to fulfill another."

"Which reminds me, here are your battle claws back.", said Ezylryb as he put the claws back in their bag. "How's your friend holding up?"

"He is still unconscious.", answered Balin, who was carrying Max on his back. "I just hope that the darkness inside him will leave soon."

"With friends like you two to shine his way out, I don't see why not.", replied Ezylryb.

"Thanks Ezylryb.", said Balin. Then the Ga'Hoole Tree came into view. "You see that Max, we are safe now." They then all landed on the main platform, where a crowd had assembled to greet the returning heroes. Balin put Max down with the young ones on their way to the infirmary.
"Balin!", cried out Shard with joy as he grabbed onto him. Spells did the same thing to Alanine.

"Soren! Soren!", exclaimed a little voice, then a little hatchling jumped onto Soren and gave him a big hug.

"Oh Eg.", said Soren.

"So this is the Eglantine that we have heard so much about.", said Balin.

"Yep, this is my little sister.", said Soren as he turned to them as Eg still clinged on.

"It's nice to meet you Eg. I'm Balin and this is Alanine.", said Balin.

"I know who you are. Shard and Spells told me everything.", said Eglantine.

"Well I guess that's one way to take care of introductions.", said Balin. They all laughed at this. Then Otulissa came over to them and they could tell she was upset.

"Why didn't you take me with you!", yelled Otulissa.

"There wasn't enough time. We had to leave as soon as we could and we didn't know where you were.", said Soren. "We barely made it in time as it was."

"If you think those excuses will calm me…", started Otulissa.

"We, including you and Ruby are going to be tapped for chaws, since we proved ourselves.", interrupted Alanine.

"Really?", asked Otulissa in disbelief. "Well then I guess I can forgive you guys for leaving me."

"Gee, thanks.", said Balin sarcastically. He, Alanine, and Soren began laughing.

"You guys are insufferable.", complained Otulissa.

"And yet you are angry because you weren't with us.", said Alanine, before they laughed some more. Otulissa opened her beak to say something, but then decided to just grumble instead.

"So how does the chaw tapping process work?", asked Soren. Otulissa took a big breath before answering.

"In our nests, we will find an item in them that shows what chaw we have been tapped for. For example, a piece of a coal is for colliering."

"Well then let's go see if they have been placed yet.", said Balin before he and the rest of the Band flew off to their hollow. Twilight was the first to approach his nest. Inside it was a single molted feather.

"Search-and-Rescue. I knew I get it.", said Twilight. The next one to approach was Digger. Inside was a dried pellet.

"Tracking.", said Digger. "That makes sense." The next one was Gylfie. Inside hers was ten small nuts arranged in a familiar pattern.

"Navigation.", said Gylfie.

"Well that was an obvious choice.", said Soren before he stepped up to his nest. Inside his nest was two things inside. The first was a piece of coal and the other was a dried caterpillar. "Alright, Weather Interpretation and Colliering!"

"That means you will be working with Ezylryb.", said Balin. Balin and Alanine approached their nest but found nothing there.

"There's nothing here, what gives?", asked Alanine.

"We like to welcome those who enter our chaws personally.", said a voice, they turned around and saw Ragnarok and Eric in the entryway to the hollow. "May we come in?"

"Sure.", answered Balin. They entered the hollow.

"As we once said before, we see great potential in the two of you. That is why we have tapped you for our chaws. You Balin will be a part of my Blade chaw, it's a chaw in the Combat chaw.", said Ragnarok.

"As for you Alanine, you will be part of my Spellcasting chaw.", said Eric. "But don't worry about not working together, our chaws work closely together. In fact, you two will be paired up together in our classes."

"So we won't be separated?", asked Balin. Ragnarok nodded yes. "Awesome. Thanks."

"No, thank you. You two, along with your friends, save the entire Owl Kingdoms. We owe you all a great debt. If any of you need anything, do not hesitate to ask.", said Ragnarok. We hope to see the both of you in our classes soon." Just then a shriek from outside came.

"That sounded like it came from Otulissa's hollow.", said Soren.

"Well it looks like you are need elsewhere. See you around.", said Eric before he and Ragnarok left the hollow. The Band then quickly went to Otulissa's hollow.

"No, it can't be. It's over now.", said Otulissa.

"What's wrong Otulissa?", asked Balin.

"I've… I've been tapped for Weather Interpretation and Colliering.", said Otulissa in almost a whisper.

"Then what's the big deal?", asked Twilight.

"What's the big deal?!", screech Otulissa. "Out of all the chaws I could get, I get the second one I would most hate to get! Not only will I be forced to not be with Strix Struma, but to be with the most unrefined ryb in the tree! And then you have the bright idea to ask me 'what's the big deal?'! Twilight, you really frink (owl curse word. What it actually means, I don't know.) me off sometimes!" Twilight took a step back.

"Otulissa.", said Gylfie in surprise. "I can't believe that you just cursed."

"Well I am really mad right now.", said Otulissa, still with anger in her voice.

"Well look at the positive side of things.", said Soren. "You will be able to learn and develop skills that you don't have yet."

"And it's not every night you get chosen to be in a class taught by a legend.", said Balin.

"Legend?", asked Otulissa. "Hardly what I call a legend."

"So you don't call Lyze of Kiel a legend?", said Balin. "Our dear Ezylryb is Lyze of Kiel." She, Gylfie, Digger, and Twilight gasped.

"But that can't be.", said Otulissa with shock.

"If you don't believe us, go ask him.", replied Balin. "You were planning on talking with him the moment you saw what was in your nest, weren't you?"

"Yes, but…", started Otulissa.

"Then what are you waiting for, go talk to him.", interrupted Balin.

"Ok then.", said Otulissa. She and the others then left the hollow. As the rest of the Band headed back to the hollow, Balin and Alanine turned to go another way.

"Where are you guys going?", asked Soren.

"We're going to go check up on Max, see if he is awake now.", answered Alanine.

"Well do you mind a little company?", asked Soren.

"Not at all.", answered Alanine. They then made their way to the infirmary and found Matron.

"Hey Matron, do you know where we can find Max?", asked Balin.

"Who?", asked Matron.

"The Tasmanian Masked owl I carried back. The one with the armor piece on him.", replied Balin.

"Oh, that one. He should be in the last nest that way.", answered Matron.

"Thanks.", said Balin. Then he and the others went in the direction that Matron had told them. But when they arrived at the nest, it was empty, save a few feathers. "He's gone."

"But I don't think he's gone far.", said Digger. "I think I can track him. Follow me." They followed Digger to the beach and from there to the bolder, just this time it was completely out of the way and revealing the tunnel.

"Oh no.", said Balin in almost a whisper.

"What wrong?", asked Gylfie.

"We were told to seal this tunnel and now it's wide open.", answered Balin. "We have to get Max now, hurry." They flew as fast as they could down the tunnel and found Max in his dark armor in the chamber. Destroyed roots were all over the ground and on the far wall, now clear of roots, was the Keyhole.

"Max!", exclaimed Balin. Max turned around and saw them.

"Balin. Alanine.", said Max in pain. "I will not do your bidding anymore. I will not submit to darkness." Then darkness started pouring out of Max as Max's armor became dark blue and normal red and the fire claws to normal battle claws. After all the darkness came out, Max collapsed on the ground. The Band quickly went to his side and found he was unconscious. Then the darkness from Max began to take shape. Balin and Alanine summoned their Keyblades.

"You guys grab Max and get out of here.", ordered Alanine. Twilight grabbed Max and he, Digger and Gylfie went back down the tunnel. Soren however stayed by their side. "I said to get out of here. We can handle this."

"Then we can handle it together.", replied Soren.

"Well then put these on, quick.", said Balin as he tossed their battle claws to Soren. He quickly equipped them as the darkness finished taking form, the Antimax.

(cue boss music)

The Antimax was shaped like Max's owl form in his armor, except was solid black with glowing red eyes and the main body underneath the armor looked almost like mist, as if it were incomplete. In his talons, he grasped a lancesheld that was jet-black and covered in small spikes, save on one point on the shield, that had the Eclipsed symbol on it. Balin made the first move by charging forward and unleashing a combo that the Antimax blocked with his attacks. Soren, made the next move by diving at the Antimax with his talons outstretched, once again the Antimax blocked the attack. Then Alanine cast Fira after Fira at the Antimax, which blocked the attack by raising it's offhand talons and creating a shield. Then the Antimax went to a swipe at Soren, and the attack made contact. "No! Light!" A stream of light came from the end of Balin's Keyblade and went toward the Antimax. It raised it's weapon in defence and the light hit the shield piece and didn't do a bit of damage to the Antimax. Alanine cast Cure on Soren. "We haven't even made a dent in this thing."

"We need to do a Trinity Limit.", said Alanine. "I have an idea. Balin use Light and keep it up." Balin cast Light on the Antimax. Once again, it blocked the attack with it's shield. "Shadow!" A blast of darkness went from the tip of Alanine's Keyblade and toward the Antimax. It raised it's offhand talons and created a shield to block the attack. Then Soren swooped in and grabbed the lanceshield from it's talons. With the shield out of the way, Balin's attack made contact, which broke it's concentration, allowing Alanine's attack to also hit, together inflicting major damage. When the attacks wore out, Soren threw the lanceshield at the Antimax, finishing the job. Then the Antimax stood still as darkness swirled around it and then just faded away, leaving only a small black stone behind. Then Balin and Alanine pointed their Keyblades at the Keyhole and sealed it. Soren picked up the stone and handed it to Balin.

"I think I know who this belongs to.", said Soren. "Why don't you give it to him?"

"Well first, we have to make sure that he's ok.", replied Balin. "Come on, let's go." They came back outside to the beach, were the others had been waiting for them.

"You're ok!", exclaimed Gylfie as she gave Soren a quick hug after she saw them.

"How's Max doing?", asked Balin.

"Conscious for right now, but I don't know for how much longer.", answered a voice. It was Max. "But I will leave as soon as I can. I know you want me gone."

"No we don't. Why would you think that?", asked Alanine.

"I have done some terrible things. Things that can never be forgiven.", replied Max in a low tone.

"It wasn't your fault. Nyra had that spell on you. You didn't have a choice.", replied Balin.

"That still doesn't warrant my weakness. If I had been stronger, I would never have fallen so far into darkness.", said Max. "I killed in their name. In His name. I almost destroyed this world. If it weren't for you guys, I would have."

"But we forgive you.", said Soren.

"You wouldn't forgive me if you knew the things I did.", said Max before he fell unconscious.

"Oh Max.", said Balin. "Let's bring him to Matron." They did exactly that and then went to sleep.

(The next night) It was sunset when Max awoke. He knew that he had to leave the Tree and never come back. Yes, he would miss his friends, but it was the only way to protect them from him and his darkness. He made his way outside and stopped on a nearby branch to prepare himself to leave.

"Going somewhere?", said a voice. Max turned around and saw Balin and Alanine.

"I have to leave you now. It is the only way.", replied Max.

"What you did is not your fault.", said Alanine.

"Also we, along with the rest of the Band, have forgiven you. Now you have to forgive yourself.", said Balin.

"But how can I? I have done so many things.", asked Max. "Things that no one can forgive."

"Like what? What's so bad that can never be forgiven?", asked Balin.

"I helped Kludd kill his parents.", admitted Max. "If I hadn't been so weak, they would still be alive. Their deaths, along with others, are mine to bear. The darkness will come for me again. It has my scent. And when it gets me once more, I don't know if I can stop myself."

"You still aren't leaving this tree without us.", said Alanine as he and Balin came closer to Max. "We need you and we will never leave without you."

"You really don't need me.", said Max as tears came to his eyes. "Not after all the blood on my hands. Soren, Eglantine, and Gylfie are orphans because of me." Balin and Alanine wrapped their wings around Max and hugged him tight.

"It's ok Max. It's ok.", said Balin trying to calm Max.

"I'm so afraid of the darkness inside me.", said Max.

"Don't be afraid.", said Alanine. "You're sorry for what you did right?"

"More sorry than for anything I have ever done.", answered Max.

"Then that proves that the darkness will not get you again.", said Alanine. "And even if it ever does, that you will be able to fight it off, that you will not let this happen ever again. We need you Max and that is something that can not be changed."

"Alright then,", said Max as he wiped away his tears. "I will come with you, but you have to promise me that if I start falling back into darkness that you two will des…"

"If the darkness get's you, we will bring you back to the light. That we promise.", interrupted Balin.

"No, I want you to dest…", started Max.

"We will save you from the darkness and bring you back to the light. No ifs, ands, or buts about it.", interrupted Alanine. He then handed the black stone over to Max. "This is yours" Then a bright light shined and when it cleared, Max had a new lanceshield in his talons. The shield piece was jet-black with feather designs engraved in the metal. The lance part was golden and slightly curved like a beak.

"Metal Shadow.", said Max. "This means that we'll be leaving soon, doesn't it?" Alanine, nodded his head yes.

"I hope you weren't thinking of leaving without saying goodbye to your friends and rybs.", said a voice. They turned around and saw it was Ragnarok, Eric, and Ezylryb.

"Not goodbye, but something else.", said Balin.

"They are waiting for you on the main platform.", said Ragnarok. They then took off.

"Wait Ragnarok! Eric!", yelled Balin. They turned back around. "There are a couple of hatchlings that we need you two to keep an eye on for us when we leave. Their names are Shard…"

"And Spells.", finished Alanine. "They need someone, someone they can look up to. Someone to teach them. Can you two do that for us?"

"We'll take care of them.", answered Eric. They then all went to the main landing platform where the Band, Otulissa, Ruby, Eglantine, Ezylryb, Shard, and Spells were waiting for them. As soon as they landed, Shard and Spells ran up to them with tears in their eyes and hugged them.

"Please don't go. We can't lose you too.", said Shard.

"You're not losing us. We just have to leave for a little bit. But we will come back as soon as we can.", said Balin.

"Please, take us with you.", begged Spells.

"We can't do that. It is too dangerous for you come along. We don't want you to get hurt.", replied Alanine.

"But we will miss you.", said Shard.

"We'll miss you guys too. But I think I know something that may help you.", said Balin. Then he and Alanine plucked one of their feathers and and gave it to them. "Now you'll always have a part of us with you." Then Shard and Spells also took one of their downy feathers and gave it to them.

"And you'll have a part of us.", said Shard. Balin and Alanine garbed the feathers and a bright light shined. When it cleared, they had new Keyblades. The first side of the hilt of Balin's Keyblade was white and fluffy looking and the other side of it looked like the wing of a Barn owl. The blade looked like it was made of wood till half way, where it looked like steel. The teeth was three white feathers and the charm was the feather from Shard. The first side of Alanine's hilt was gray, with white spots and also looked fluffy with the other resembled the wing of a Snowy owl. The blade looked like Spells' staff with black and white ribbons swirling around it. It's four teeth looked different: the first was red and curled like fire, the second was cone-shaped and looked like ice, the third was yellow and jagged like lightning, and the last was clear and swirled like wind. The charm was the feather from Spells.

"Shard Assault.", said Balin.

"Storm of Spells.", said Alanine.

"What happened?", asked Spells.

"You guys made us stronger. Your hearts made ours even stronger.", answered Alanine. "Thank you, for everything."

"It was nothing.", said Shard. "Just promise us that you two will be careful."

"We will do our best and not take any risks that aren't necessary.", responded Balin. They gave them one last hug and then went over to the others.

"Do you really have to go?", asked Gylfie.

"Yes we do. There are other worlds out there that need our help.", answered Balin. "But like we said to them, we'll be back as soon as we can."

"And it's not like we can't see each other. All we have to do is look inside our hearts and there we can find each other.", said Alanine.

"You guys will always be in our hearts.", said Soren.
"And the same for you guys.", replied Balin. Then he, Alanine, and Max hit their armors and threw their weapons up into the air and opened a portal. "Until next time we meet." They then flew through the portal and a bright light shined. When the could see again, they were wearing their armor and were back to their normal form. Then Balin and Alanine looked back at the Owl Kingdoms. "We'll be back soon." Then flew off to the next world.

Never again! Never again will I have a chapter this long. If it comes to a point where it is really long, I'll post it and continue in another chapter. Anyway, I let me know if you like this chapter, any constructive criticism, or just thoughts. The next world I am going to do I am just going to tell you this time. It is How to Train Your Dragon world, as it was requested by xKeybladeWielderx. See you all next time.