CHAPTER 4

An extra long chappie! A LA DOUBLE CHAPTER EVEN! I must be crazy.

I noticed there were mistakes in the previous chapter, because of stupid auto correct.

Please keep in your mind that the next update will take a bit time, because the school is already started. *tears, sniffle and everything.*

Now about the story:

Dakonyo is Sgt. Kit Cosmos. The sergeant GSA guy from Island, Kirby show in 22 of the anime, 20 in the dub. (if you are willing to refresh your memory. xD)

(It is not SIR Dakonyo, because that is not how you call a drill sergeant. Actually they would punish you with more tasks or push-ups if you call them that!)

Thank you , and enjoy! C:

Kirby saw Meta knight slowly arriving. Like usual the knight has wrapped his body with his cape, and with loud noise his armors makes him hard to not to notice. Kirby sometimes wondered how Meta knight always appear when he likes to and no one ever notices him.

Perhaps he had training from that ninja scum, Kirby scowled.

To be honest, Kirby was loss for words. Not by his own nature that he talks much, but down he was terrified and angry at the same time. Determined, he would end the silence for once and at all.

Meta knight reached the beach and noticed the atmosphere was a little tense. Confused he asked mentally: Why was Kirby here alone?

Meta knight gazed at his surrounding. The beach was very peaceful; the sunset was very clear and a beautiful sight.

''Kirby, where is Sword and Blade?'' Meta knight questioned, and is genuinely confused when his apprentice didn't answer. He couldn't read his emotion because he was facing his back. Was something wrong with Kirby?

As to answer his question, Kirby spun around with his sword in his hands. Was he eager to begin already?

The look in his eyes, Meta knight was taken aback. No it was not eagerness, Kirby was truly angry, and Meta knight could almost feel it; the anger radiating from the pink warrior.

''Kirby?'' Meta knight's eyes glowing orange, not sure what is going on. ''What are you-'' The sword missed him by an inch, Meta knight was so surprised that the next swing hit him hard in his mask, and a small metal piece fell from his mask. Taken by surprise, Meta knight didn't waste any second to make a huge jump to distance himself from the raging star warrior.

''Kirby! Stop this action immediately,'' Meta knight hold his hand in air, signing that he should stop. ''What is wrong with you, young one?'' No answer, Kirby ran to him, preparing to give him next slash. Meta knight's eyes narrowed, inspecting the pink warrior for any possible signs of possessions.

''Kirby!'' this time he wasn't yelling out for the pink warrior's name. It was Fumu, and the girl wore a completely surprised look on her face. ''All the time, you were training here with Meta knight?'' she cried with a hint of anger in her voice.

Kirby didn't answer or even notice Fumu. Kirby completely ignored his surrounding but focused on one person, his mentor. With a snarl he charged to Meta knight, his borrowed sword pointing rushing forward to him. He could feel his rage bubbling as the next attack missed; to his grant irritation his mentor could be incredible quick if he wanted to be.

Meta knight feels a terrible headache of the earlier unexpected hit, Kirby was strong and from that fact he couldn't feel but proud of him. His vision began to blur a bit, but he could vaguely see his apprentice run to him intending to hit him again. Meta knight still felt very weary from the fight with Yamikage almost all night long.

''Kirby no!'' Fumu cried to the pink star warrior. ''Stop ! What are you doing?!''

Kirby was ready to strike Meta knight, his sword glowing preparing for a sword beam, Meta knight could only watch in horror. He didn't except Kirby to go that far.

''Sir!'' he heard screaming of his loyal assets, gasping and running to their lord. Meta knight assumed they came back as they heard the loud sword clinging.

''No, Sword Blade, I have to handle this alone!'' Meta knight's eyes glowed white, and he quickly took his legendary Galaxia sword from his scabbard.

''If Kirby wants a duel, so be it.'' He said in an abstruse voice, his eyes glowing green. He could hear Fumu's screaming to stop further away.

With that, Kirby released his sword beam, and Meta knight's eyes widened. The sword beam wasn't it usual gold, it glowed with eerie blue sword beam.

''Huh?! His sword beam looks different!'' Blade cried, ''Sir look out!''

Meta knight listened to the warning and was quick with performing a Shield beam, and successfully blocked the strange sword beam of the little star warrior. But Meta knight didn't move from his place, everyone knew that he knight was totally unmotivated to fight Kirby.

Fumu noticed this too, and she knew that this wasn't a training. Kirby was fighting with Meta knight for real, but why? And Blade pointed out that the sword beam was different?

''KIRBY!'' she cried out, she ran to the pink warrior planning to stop him but before she could do that, Sword and Blade grabbed her arms causing her unable to move. ''Let me go! Let me stop Kirby!''

''No Fumu, It's too dangerous!'' Blade warned.

Kirby growled as his attack was blocked repeatedly, and ran to Meta knight to strike again. With his sword he made a quick counterattack and Meta knight was hit by his attack, Meta knight didn't except such ferocity from Kirby. This fighting style was too unlike for the little pink ball, and he was getting really exhausted.

Kirby stabbed Meta knight's unprotected arm, the infant could hear a cough and saw blood dripping from his mentor's arm. Meta knight's eyes glowed dark purple, and held his right hand on the wound unable to wear his sword properly. He felt a smile slowly creeping on his face, enjoying the victory.

''STOP KIRBY!'' Fumu screamed so hard that Kirby finally heard her voice. ''CAN'T YOU SEE HE ISN'T FIGHTING BACK?!''

To Fumu's and the loyal knaves' utter horror, Meta knight fell down; a hard sound from his armor falling and blood was spread on the sand. Kirby slowly walked to his mentor, and the situation looked bleak. Kirby was preparing an attack to finish him.

''You work with him.'' Kirby whispered darkly.

With a uncertain frown on his face. He could hear a faint grunt from his mentor. The navy blue knight could barely progress what is happening, already lost a lot of blood. He was probably not even following what Kirby said.

The pink warrior held his hand high in the air, ''You are dangerous.'' he said emotionlessly. Meta knight's eyes widened, a realization suddenly dawned on the knight.

The crystal was affecting Kirby, and he could finally see the dark blue aura surrounding Kirby as it was possessing him. But how was it possible? Kirby was only here for four years on the planet, was the crystal affecting the infant star warrior quicker than he had anticipated? It was the truth; his sword beam looked different too.

But Kirby matured so quick in the four years, and his power was progressing faster than any star warrior. If the army was still alive, Kirby would be called a prodigy among the star warriors, and don't forget to mention that the pink ball developed almost at an impossible rate.

Meta knight could only guess that Kirby knew that he was with Yamikage, so he had to be close with cave and thus was close to the crystal. Even so it would taken thousand of years before it had any effect.

He felt a sharp pain in his body, with a grunt he tried to stand up but no avail. Meta knight felt numb, unable to move. Defending himself was also out of options because he couldn't feel his good arm. He already had a intense fight with Yamikage before, and couldn't handle this pressure right now.

He felt his conscious slipping and knew he had to face his end, closing his eyes and prepared himself for the final strike murmuring

''Sorry I have failed you, Kirby..'' he murmured. After that, Meta knight lost his consciousness.

''NOOOO!" Fumu screamed and Kirby's face screwed, his arm froze.

''It is very unfortunate that I am not the last survivor of the star warriors. If it was that the case..''

Kirby's teeth grinded, if he kills him now – he wouldn't kill anybody. And Dreamland would be safe.

''The voices.. do you also hear them.. in your dreams?'' the voice was barely understandable, even with Kirby's star warriors hearing, it was almost too muffled ''It is almost someone is trying to bring us a message...''

''Yes.. I believe it is not only on star warriors.. perhaps everyone..?'' That gruff voice again, Kirby has a feeling that voice is also familiar. He frowned, trying to remember.

''No that is not possible. Not everyone have such dreams, I've been watching the villagers. They do not have such dreams, or nightmares. Only the ones who know him have such dreams..Perhaps.. it's possible that Kirby have them too..''

Kirby hesitated; he had the best opportunity to stop Meta knight for once and all but…

But as he looks up, there was no disappointing glint in their eyes. In fact they all looked very proud, especially Meta knight. ''Kirby, I saw a remarkable tactic from you.'' He said, glowing with pride.

Kirby felt so happy back then, his mentor was really thrifty when it comes to compliments.

Kirby, why are you so willing to fight with us? Meta knight gazed him with curiosity. ''Why don't you play with Bun?''

Truly, Meta knight felt reluctant to train Kirby. Nightmare was gone, and he wanted to Kirby have a happy childhood. He already endured so much in the beginning.

''Poyo,travel! Me want travel.'' Kirby cried happily, swinging his sword as to flex. ''I wan' to see lots of stawrs!''

Meta knight's eyes shined blue, he is so proud of Kirby. Even after all those battles, Kirby was still innocent and pure. When it comes to fighting and challenging, it seems they weren't so different after all.

''If you only knew..'' the knight whispered, but Kirby could hear it thanks to his advanced hearing.

''Puyo?'' he said confused, and Meta knight didn't answer to that. Instead he said ''Kirby, I am always willing to train you. But I won't go on easy on you, understood?''

Kirby jumped in air in joy, and quickly took a sword. ''You already want to start now?'' Meta knight chuckled, ''Not before you take some of this,'' he took a candy jar from his cape. Kirby's eyes shined with happiness, he didn't know that the mentor carried candies!

''The training eats a lot from you, so have some candies.'' His eyes glowing pink, and Kirby happily took them. He ate it, and never in his life he tasted something so delicious. It was even more delicious than watermelons!

The infant star warrior let his sword drop, and lost his composure and all of his energy. He began to hiccup and tears threatened his eyes, as he realized what he has done. The sight before him was suddenly so clear, his mentor he looked up like a father was lying before him with pool in blood.

Why was this happening?

What has he done? Was he angry because he accused him without any explanation? What a horrible act has Kirby performed? In shame he didn't look at others, Sword and Blade ran to their leader fast as possible.

Vaguely he could hear sentences like ''He's still alive…''

''Barely..''

''He needs medical attention, and quick.''

Kirby felt small relief in his body, but a gigantic guilt crashed him down. He couldn't handle the pressure and the fact that he was totally unscathed and his mentor wasn't …. In fact he almost killed him, without he ever fighting back. So Kirby ran away in tears from his responsibilities, he was not ready to face them all yet. It was never a duel, it was just a one sided fight.

It was too bright.

That was the first thing Meta knight noticed. It takes a while before his could adjust to the light.

Everything was white. Nothing could be seen but plain white color. Was he still unconscious? He slowly blinked and moved slowly to explore.

Meta knight looked surprised at his paw. He had no gloves on, no armor at all. Without any of his clothes the knight felt vulnerable, weak and pathetic.

Where the hell was he? Was he dead? Then just at that moment a lot of memories came back to his mind. Meta knight felt dizzy and overwhelmed and his paws messaged his temple to calm himself a down a bit.

He saw flashes of memories: Kirby growing up, and raising him into a strong warrior. So strong that he could defeat Nightmare. Regrettable he didn't saw go Nightmare down himself, but according to the stories he heard that Nightmare literally drowned in the stars of the Star Rod.

Then there is the fresh flashes of the duel… was Kirby always so powerful? When he dueled him, Meta knight noticed Kirby fighting style was different. It was possible that the crystal tampering Kirby's mind; let the star warrior act solely on his emotion. From experience he know that person who is fueled with anger is the most dangerous when it comes to fighting.

Just like with Jecra, when he was turned into a demon beast. But this time, he just hadn't the heart to hurt Kirby, especially not when he swore himself to protect the star warrior with all cost.

…

Meta knight frowned; what was the point of thinking all of this? He failed. He is dead. The strange empty surrounding may be heaven or hell. Meta knight let his face bury in his paws, what now?

He felt suddenly self conscious it was really long time ago that he had no mask on his face. It was strange to feel his face again, and feeling his paws without his gloves on. How long time ago is actually he first wore the mask?

He remembered vaguely a person who gave him a mask. But to be honest, he didn't remember a lot of things from his past. Star warriors have a long life-span, he was told. So it was possible his memories failed to remember the crucial parts of his life.

''Meta…''

That voice was familiar. Meta knight's eyes frantically searched for the source of the voice. He doesn't remember anyone in his past who didn't call him a knight.

''Meta….''

Meta knight spun back and saw a star warrior. He looked very much like Kirby because of his skin, but it was a bit darker. And he was fully armored and has glorious angelic wings. He assumed he was a warrior, according to his heavily guarded armour and some unrecognisable marks on his shoulder pads.

This blank world wasn't as empty as Meta knight thought.

''I will regain my title!" the unrecognizable figure said, his sudden voice was very loud and powerful, almost painful for Meta knight's ears.

It was at that moment, Meta knight realised it was like his latest dreams. First it was voices, then vague images, but now he could see him clearly. Yamikage was right! This person was trying to send them all a message.

''The voices.. do you also hear them.. in your dreams?'' Yamikage whispered. ''It is almost someone is trying to bring us a message...''

''You are the one who speaks in our dreams!" Meta knight declared, but he felt no more confident because lack of his armor. Yet he was determined to figure this all out. ''You corrupted the crystal!''

All what he heard was ominous laughter from the strange person.

''Yet yours were the most clear and Kirby's too. You know why?'' The unknown warrior said with a grisly voice.

He was talking about Kirby and his dream?

Meta knight frowned deeper; while he could see that the person was a Star warrior. A dangerous one that is. That much was clear. He walked backwards, while the strange warrior walked slowly to him.

''Oh, you don't know?'' The warrior taunted. Meta knight noticed that his mask was a bit similar to his own, only with a horizontal split added. And the permanent red eyes, was he a demon beast?

''Well well, I will give you a small hint, noble warrior.'' Meta knight frowned again, what was he talking about?

The magenta knight snarled as the navy one didn't answer, and Meta knight's mask suddenly appeared in the strange knight's hand.

''Does this mask ring you any bells?'' the star warrior mocked.

Meta knight felt a shiver in his spine at the comment; he was not ready for this. He was facing an unknown enemy without anything to defend himself. The absence of his armor and sword Galaxia upsets Meta knight extremely.

His enemy raised his lance in the air, while spreading out his brilliant feathered wings, and almost in an unnatural speed he already stood before Meta knight. Before the Meta knight could even stop myself or dodge, the lance was already stabbed in his body. The first thing Meta knight heard after being hit was the evil laughter again, and the last thing the knight saw were the devilish eyes.

Kirby sat in Kabu chamber. He was here for days; he was unwilling to face anyone. His guilt was slowing eating him, and his tummy was in pain of constantly growling for food. But the pink Star warrior really doesn't care for his own health and has no appetite. His mind was so hollow and his eyes were puffed and red from crying. He was unsure which day it was, and don't even know or it was a day or night.

Kabu's voice boomed loudly, Kirby was startled at the sudden sound.

''You are troubled.'' Kabu said.

Troubled? Kirby was downright depressed. He almost killed his own mentor, and he repeated in his mind everyone's imaginary angry and disgusted faces at what he has done.

''How could you!''

''You are no Star warrior, you are just a murderer!"

''I am so disappoint in you, Kirby!''

But mostly the last voice unstrung Kirby.

''Why did you do this to me, Kirby..?'' Meta knight said with a sad voice, his disappointed eyes so blank and cold.

Kirby felt a tear appearing in his eye again.

"You do not know what to do anymore.'' The statue pointed out.

Kirby felt crying again, but he managed to hold everything in yet. He did not know why he was here; it was a good place to stay from everyone else. But was he excepting good news from the statue? All what Kabu did was stating the obvious, and he was being an unwelcomed company.

Kirby wanted to be alone.

He closed his eyes, his mind in turmoil. His heart hurts from all the emotional pain. What has possessed him earlier to beat his mentor so bad? He just acted like a demon beast, and Kirby shivered at the very thought. For years he fought them, strived to make sure that Dreamland was safe. And now he was turning into one?

How ironic.

''A help is arriving.'' Kirby's eyes widened, so he wasn't wrong at all. The statue did bring good news. But what he is going to do?

''Puy..? What do you meeeean?'' Kirby's hoarse voice tried to communicate with Kabu.

''A danger will come, Kirby. The help will reveal true colors.'' Was all he said, the statue was silent again.

Kirby only numbly blinked at the statement, and he fell asleep. Finally the insomnia had lost the battle, and there was a long dreamless sleep for the little pink ball.

''Sir is awake.'' Sword reported to everyone in the room. Fumu, Blade, Bun, Sirica, Knuckle Joe and parents of the Cappy children were relieved to hear the good news.

''But we do not allow anyone to enter his room. He needs his rest to fully recover, and we will respect his privacy.'' Blade said, as he put the EHBO case on the table. Everyone looked worried, and asked about his state.

''He'll be fine; he's a fast healer. It is not the first time he was injured from a fight.'' Fumu grimaced from hearing the sentence, but felt confident that the knight would fully recover again.

''Please, Sword Blade, I need to speak with him. It's really urgent.'' Fumu begged, but the knights immediately declined.

''If you would be so friendly, please leave the room. If you want to speak with him again, maybe another time.'' Sword said a little too harsh, but everyone understood the reasoning except the stubborn Fumu.

''We'll let you know when's he's willing to speak to anyone.'' he said afterward, and everyone left the room.

''He's going to be fine,'' her mother said warmly as the family stood in the corridor of the castle. ''If you want to talk with Sir Meta knight, you can do it when he's okay.'' Fumu smiled at her mother's comforting words. It is not that she didn't understand the knaves' words, but she really needed talk to Meta knight.

''But.. what about Kirby..'' Fumu worries affected everyone. ''I haven't seen him for days..'' Painful silence washed over them, and the most people moved on. Saying things like that he'll come around like always, but Fumu was unsure of that. They didn't get angry at them though, it was not like they could do much at the moment.

However Sirica and Knuckle Joe were still at her side. Fumu had an idea, because the talk to the knight was really urgent.

''Can you do a favor for me, guys?''

Knuckle Joe shrugged and glanced to his friend. ''Well.. I think it's fair, because you guys already provided a room for us.. So why not?''

Fumu mentally victory danced. ''Well okay then, Here is the plan..''

Somewhere else.

Sword and Blade were guarding the door of Meta knight.

''Seriously, I think we should try dual wield training someday. How awesome would it be? Fighting with two swords at once!''

''I think that would bring us at disadvantage.'' Sword commented ''I mean, isn't it better to wear a shield?''

''No man, if you have two weapon imagine how quick you would wound your enemy!"'

''Uh, no. I disagree; you would be still at disadvantage. You hurt the enemy much more with more force in one swor-''

''Hi.'' Knuckle Joe interrupted and walked in the room. Blade and Sword flinched at the sudden visit, what was the Demon hunter doing here?

''We told you to leave us alone.'' Knuckle Joe was unaffected by the small threat.

''Why are you here?'' Blade demanded an answer.

''C'mon guys, I am not your enemy!'' Knuckle Joe gave them both the biggest smile he could manage. ''I need to show you something reallllly special!''

Blade and Sword looked at each other, their curiosity getting better of them. ''What is it?''

''I found a legendary sword somewhere close.'' The knights gasped, and Knuckle Joe inwardly gniffled.

''You can't be serious, in Dreamland?''

''I am dead serious. However, I am not a sword fighter. Perhaps you guys have an interest for it? Imagine.. you could defeat your lord in a duel!'' Joe said dramatically.

Gasp came from the knights, ''Show us!'' they both cried excitedly.

This was too easy; Knuckle Joe almost gave himself almost away with his hidden smug smile.

As they left, Fumu quietly enters the room. Now she was facing the door were Meta knight lies behind.

She gulped; she really needs to do this. Kirby was missing for days, and she was so worried for him.

But Meta knight was unconscious for days, why would he provide an answer?

Because according from the duel, the knight seems to know what happened with Kirby, Fumu thought. With that determination, she walked to the door slowly but she halted herself before opening the door.

Perhaps I really should come back later.. she was getting second thoughts. Right now I am invading his privacy.

But then she heard a voice that was vaguely familiar to Fumu, and she couldn't help but listen to the conversation. She gasped as she recognized the voice.

''Strange things is happening, Meta knight.'' A powerful voice, filled with confidence said. ''You are aware of the Warp's star return?''

''Sir? I thought that the Warp Star was transformed in Rod Star?'' Fumu could barely understand Meta knight, the knight sounded to tired that his accent took over almost all his words. But now she was sure about the person Meta knight was speaking to.

''Yes, Kirby's Warp Star was indeed transformed in order to defeat Nightmare.''

Meta knight told her once about the leader of the GSA, Sir Arthur knight. It was told that the leader's power was even feared by Nightmare in the past, his sword could perform a complete different but much more powerful than a regular Sword beam. It was even more powerful than the Galaxia beam!

Fumu remembered that she was so awed when the knight told her the story; she locked herself in library for days and read a lot of stories about him. But there was not much about the star warrior, much to her disappointment. But then she remember that Meta knight told her once that demon beasts destroyed all the books that were written about the war, so the future generations would never learn about their ancestors putting them in the disadvantage.

She was so shocked to hear that, not able to accept the fact that future generations Star warrior's like Kirby would never learn about their parents.

''Meta knight, did you perhaps thought that the Warp Star may be yours?'' Sir Arthur knight's questioned.

''That is impossible, from what you described, it looked exactly like Kirby's.'' Meta knight said with firm belief.

''It is true that every Warp star has a unique design and looks, but you don't remember even have one. And it is impossible to have a new Warp Star, you will only have one in your whole life.'' Arthur reasoned.

''It still can't be mine,'' Meta knight said in a grave voice. ''And unnecessary, I have already my own set of…''

''Excuse me,'' Sir Arthur interrupted him, and to Fumu shock the door opened and she stood here before the leader of GSA.

''I suppose this is the way they say: youth's curiosity must be harnessed to develop.'' the star warrior joked as his blank stare locked with Fumu's. Fumu didn't except him to be so casual.

''I am so sorry, I really needed to speak with Meta knight and...'' Fumu stuttered, she felt so ashamed and looked away.

''Of course, come inside.'' Sir Arthur sighed, not from annoyance to the Cappy girl but more of his busy schedule. ''I am afraid I have to go, my friend.'' He hastily added: ''May the stars be with you, Meta knight.''

Sir Arthur knight left and silence washed over the two people. Fumu noticed that Meta knight wasn't wearing any armor, but she couldn't see his face. He was gazing and Fumu assumed he was admiring the view outside.

It was just that Fumu noticed how similar the build of Meta knight was to Kirby. This time he hasn't wrapped himself with his cape, so his round body was more noticeable. And she saw his paws instead of gloves; she also noticed that he has no mask on.

''…I am sorry for intruding.'' Fumu apologized, regretting her decision already. She respected the knight, and he helped the village so much through the years. She felt truly ashamed to invade his privacy only because she was inpatient to wait some more days. But Kirby safety right now was in danger.

To her surprise, the navy blue knight only gave a understanding but curt nod, and kept on gazing still not facing her.

''You probably already know that Kirby is missing for days, and I heard that .., that a warp star returned?''

''To be precise, Fumu.'' Meta knight's accent never faltering ''The Warp star is still nowhere to be found. They only heard such news from Kabu, as far I know.''

Silence took the conversation again, and Fumu knew when she wasn't wanted. It didn't seem that the knight was willing to add more.

''I will leave now. I wish you a fast recover-''

''Wait.'' Seems she was wrong at suggestion being unwanted. ''I think I can finally sense Kirby now...''

Was this how he always seems to found out where they were when Kirby battles?

''Sir Meta knight..'' Fumu is confused, ''You… can sense his location…?''

But Meta knight gave no answer on her question; instead he went back to his enigmatic ways. ''We should go together to find Kirby, right now he doesn't want to anyone see him. So the less people, the better.''

Fumu felt relieved that the knight was going to help, and mutters a thank you.

Meta knight was still horribly irritated at Fumu's manners of entering the room without permission, but he guess he couldn't entirely blame her. Almost in a big sister like way she missed Kirby and wanted to protect him with all costs. With that perspective, his irritation almost melted away instantly.

As the girl left the room, giving him some space so Meta knight could put on his armor. He glanced at his sword Galaxia, and felt glad that the sword was once at his side again.

That dream… wasn't really a dream was it? He thought.

'Yet yours were the most clear and Kirby's too. You know why?''

Why didn't he remember something? Why was this person representing his own mask to him? And with Kirby missing, there were so many questions that are left unanswered.

When Meta knight was almost done with adjusting his armor to his body, he still needed to put on his mask. He noticed there was still a crack on it, much to his dismay.

Meta knight noticed Kirby fighting style was different. It was possible that the crystal tampering Kirby's mind; thus the pink star warrior act solely on his emotion.

Meta knight sighed hard. Truth to be told, he is not willing to face Kirby again. But he knows that it was necessary, for Kirby's sake. The pink warrior could not foolishly roam in Dreamland, because right now it was dangerous.

And where was Sword and Blade? Didn't he told them both to stay guard so he could have a private conversation with Sir Arthur?

It was likely that Kirby was hiding somewhere here. Meta knight and Fumu kept searching and running for Kirby, but now no such luck finding him.

''W-will you tell me what is going on?'' Fumu gasped, her condition wasn't nearly so good as the knight. ''Why is Kirby acting so strange?''

''I believe it was due to the crystal,'' Meta knight said monotonically. ''The corruption has effected Kirby's mind and thus he acted strange.''

''A crystal?'' Fumu gasped. ''Sirica and Knuckle Joe told me about it! It is a evil thing right? So that is why Kirby was acting so strange..!'' Meta knight had to credit Fumu, she was very bright for her age.

''But it is corrupted?'' Unbeknownst to Fumu Meta knight's eyes glowed blue briefly, proud she figured out so quickly.

''What Knuckle Joe and Sirica don't know that the crystal is actually harmless, it shouldn't have any effects on commoners. In beginning war with Nightmare, he used to take over the world where was plenty of crystal, it was easier to let Demon beasts roam over the lands.'' The knight paused a bit.

''However the Star warriors destroyed a lot of them, so there wasn't many crystal anymore.'' Meta knight added the explanation.

''But who corrupted it?'' Fumu frowned, the crystal wasn't evil?

''That is what we are trying to figure out,'' Fumu was not sure what Meta knight meant.

'Did Kirby found one crystal or something?''

''I think so.'' He said curtly. He pointed his gloved hand to the little familiar pink blob that was lying in Kabu sleeping. Meta knight felt a bit uncertain and didn't get closer, while Fumu was already by the pink warrior's side.

Meta knight didn't feel to meet Kirby right now; even he knew the fact that the crystal was corrupted.

It was actually a pure defensive mechanism of the crystal and Nightmare added visions to the crystal, so the Star warriors would be more reluctant to destroy it.

But since Nightmare is gone, the crystal should be harmless. But the he couldn't fully blame the crystal, because it was partly Kirby's emotion after all.

Meta knight knew that Kirby was truly angry with him, and you can say that the crystal added the fuel to the fire. That thought was like a stab in his heart, and his eyes glowed purple for a few seconds. He never intent to hurt Kirby.

However the little star warriors spied on him, perhaps on accident. That could be troublesome much to his dismay. Nobody has to know about the crystal's location. And now especially all the members of GSA were here that wasn't making anything easier.

Yet Kirby was now safe in Fumu's hand, and he felt that should be enough for today. He needed to go back on his mission, to complete most important things right now. His emotion shouldn't stay in his way it would distract him too much. Meta knight decided that he would settle things later with the infant star warrior.

He spun around and walked away, and before he could spread his wings to go back he halted himself.

''AAAAAHHH!''

Fumu!

''Sir, I come to report that Kirby is spotted at Kabu!'' Dakonyo cried, he kneeled before the four commanders.

''Good job, drill sergeant.'' Arthur complimented, ''Now, the rest of you-'' Arthur pointed to Sir Falspar, Sir Dragato and Sir nonsurat. ''- I want you to stay here to guard the castle.''

King Dedede was in a foul mood, and Escargoon was the victim of his spontaneous hammer attacks. ''I still don't get it why they are here, zoi!'' Dedede whined like a little child. He disliked that there were so many people ignoring him because there was 'something dangerous' going on.

''What are you guys doin!'' Dedede gave up being patient, and angrily growled ''Y'came suddenly rushing into my caste, an' now there is that traitor Knuckle Joe and Sirica here too?''

''Hey, I ain't no traitor!" Knuckle Joe argumented.

''I'' the powerful voice of the leader silenced them all immediately ''am here to protect your star, your Majesty.'' With a swift spun, the leader left the castle.

''HEY WHERE ARE YOU GOING?!" Dedede exploded, he didn't understand what he was trying to say!

''Gees, he's just like Meta knight with being so curt like that.'' Escargoon commented dryly.

''Well no wonder,'' Nonsurat replied. ''He was his mentor after all, so it is natural he took over some of his habits.''

''Mentor?'' Escargoon's nonexistent eyebrows raised, this was interesting. The knight was always so keen on keeping secrets, so actually nobody knows much about his past, except that he was been in a war and some vague explanations about the star warriors.

''Where is SWORD AND BLADE?!'' Dedede cried again in anger, this was not his day. His best guards are missing, and now there were strangers who was willing to protect his castle?!

Before the snail could ask one more question, his pissed off king demanded Escargon to go work on the machine.

''Geeh, that is a funking looking machine.'' Falspar commented.

It was very small, like the size of a mobile phone.

''What the heck is that?'' Sirica frowning at the strange looking machine that Escargon held in his hand.

''It is to find demon beasts!'' Dedede took the machine from Escargon, and held him up with pride. ''So we can use it to hunt Kirby!" The king laughed, as it was the funniest thing in the world.

Everyone went to take a look at it, observing what the strange machine can do.

''I call it the Demon beast finder!'' He received some funny looks, except from one person who stood here with his arm crossed.

''And.. your Grace is taking all the credit again,'' Escargon chagrined. While Sirica and Knuckle Joe laughed quietly from the background because Sword and Blade won't be returning for a while.

''What is this?'' Fumu panicked. Why was the ninja here? Kirby was unconscious, and the ninja stood over here. ''KIRBY KIRBY!'' Fumu cried, hopefully that the puffball would wake up to her cry. But it has no avail.

''It is useless, brat.'' Yamikage was playing with his shuriken. ''He looked a little tired, so I helped him by giving him a sleeping potion.'' Yamikage showed his glowing shuriken.

''W-what are you doing here? Are you going to kill Kirby!?'' Fumu ran to Kirby and took the creampuff in her hand. ''Don't you dare to touch him!" she growled.

''Oh so dangerous, what are you going to do to me? Hit me with your hands?'' Yamikage faked a dramatical gasped, ''I am so afraid!''

Fumu backed off with Kirby in her hands, she was paralyzed with fear. She saw the ninja fights, and she would make no chance, let alone escape. Damnit! If only Kirby woke up..

''Besides,'' Yamikage said dryly ''If I truly wanted to kill him, wouldn't I already done so? It goes same for you, stupid girl.''

''Leave her alone, Yamikage.''

Perfect timing, Fumu thought. Meta knight slowly went off the stairs and walked past her and Kirby.

''It is confirmed, Kabu's prediction came out.'' Yamikage said with a casual tone. The ninja took the warp star from the place where it always rested.

Where did that come from? Fumu gasped, wasn't the Warp Star gone since Kirby inhaled it to perform a Rod Star?

''So it is true,'' Meta knight's eyes glowing green. ''Then we have to hurry, if the Warp star is here...'' he murmured, as he took the Warp star from Yamikage's hand.

''What's up with you, you have a crack on your mask?'' Fumu was utterly confused by the ninja remark. Were they having a friendly conversation? This doesn't make any sense!

Meta knight's tone was neutral as ever. ''Was it really necessary to give Kirby a sleeping potion?'' Yamikage snickered at his comment.

''Well it was easy, since the stupid little Star warrior was always here depressed about something. So I could just throw a potion and let the scent spread out… The effect is very temporary of course, otherwise we all would be sleeping here…But once you are effected you would sleep for hours… possibly days!'' His eyes are glinting happily, like a child who received his dream toy.

''Why. Are. You. Two. Talking. . Are. Both. Friends !?'' Fumu growled, she didn't trust Yamikage even a bit. He allied with Nightmare for Nova's sake! What was Meta knight doing?

''We are friends.'' Yamikage frowned, ''What did he tell otherwise, little girl?'' he was pointing to the knight, who said nothing.

''But you said that Yamikage was a terrible person!'' Fumu yelled to the knight, her arms waving dramatically. ''You were with Nightmare! You betrayed the GSA!'' this time she pointed at Yamikage.

The pair was silent for a while, but Meta knight decided to answer ''Yamikage isn't evil, is that what you were thinking Fum-''

Another voice interrupt. ''Siding with the enemy who has killed over thousand innocents is what I call a evil deed, Meta knight.'' Everyone was surprised that the very person said that was none other but Sir Arthur knight. ''I am highly disappointed that you are working with him.'' His eyes narrowed, and his gloved hand was on his scabbard.

Meta knight cursed his luck, this could only result badly. Sir Arthur knight was excellent when it comes to reading situations; it made him a great strategizer.

''Well well well, isn't it the mighty Sir Arthur.'' Yamikage mocked, throwing his shuriken in air carelessly. ''What is such important person doing here in this humble little planet?''

''You are playing a dangerous game, traitor.'' Sir Arthur Knight's eyes were still narrowed. ''I can stop and end your life right now.''

''Was that a threat?'' Yamikage replied carelessly. Meta knight shushed him, was Yamikage trying to get himself killed?

''Meta knight please! What are you doing right now?'' Fumu's held Kirby very close to her. The pink warrior made a small noise as he was in a unpleasant dream. Why was Meta knight siding with someone who has betrayed the GSA?!

''Please, Sir,'' Meta knight's eyes locked with his old mentor ''I can explain my actions,'' He quickly took his Warp star from his cape. ''We are all in danger, we need each other to work this out.''

Sir Arthur Knight's eyes was surprised, . ''Why didn't you told me earlier?''

''We don't have time anymore,'' The ninja interrupted, giving Meta knight no chance to explain his actions. Yamikage grasped Meta knight's shoulder pad and threw a smoke bomb.

Fumu coughed hard, and Kirby was slowly awaking and gasped for breath. Sir Arthur tried to search the two but no avail, they were quick gone.

''We lost them,'' he commented. ''We have to return to the castle, fast. Who knows they might be already there.''

''S-sir Arthur knight!'' Fumu's eyes watered of the smoke, but she quickly left the statue and gasped for air.

''T-that is the Warp Star that you were talking about right?!'' Fumu coughed even more. ''Yamikage has it right now?!''

''Yes,'' Sir Arthur answered ''And right now, it is in the wrong hands. We need to report this to everyone quickly, or else.'' The knight ran back to the castle, and Fumu followed – still holding semi conscious Kirby her hands.

Crystal cave

''Are you stupid?!'' Meta knight raged, losing his calm attitude, which is rather out of character of him. ''Right now, we gave ourselves away and you gave Kirby sleeping potion without a good reason? You are aware how dangerously close you were to the habitants right?'' This wasn't exactly going as planned.

''Are you done with rambling?'' Yamikage commented dryly, he himself wasn't happy with the result too. ''It is not like we lost anything, right?''

He pointed to the warp star to prove his point. ''It's like you said, everything what we have planned - everyone will know eventually.'' Yamikage sighed angrily and continued ''Y'know you are just like your father when you are being stubborn.'' He lightly teased.

Meta knight growled at the comment, not amused. His eyes briefly glowing red, but he regained his usual demeanor; it was wise to ignore that comment. He needed to move on, think further, and walked in circles as he was thinking.

He can't return to the castle, because right now knowing his old mentor the castle territory is now an enemy one. It would unwise to spy too, since the GSA commanders were trained in that field to catch the spies. Star warriors have an extremely advanced senses, and especially when matured.

Perhaps they were already planning to locate the crystal, if they would find it - everything would be over. Meta knight's eyes dulled at the thought. Yamikage sat on the rock close the crystal, playing with his shuriken again.

''I am getting irritated of this thing, this thing gives me a headache.'' Yamikage was not bothered by the events moments ago, and noticed that his ally wasn't giving any comments.

Then the ninja observed the silent knight, ''How do you plan to cleanse the corruption from the crystal?''

''You don't.'' a sudden harsh voice boomed in their ears. Both startled, Meta knight said as first. ''Show yourself!''

This couldn't be-?! Meta knight thought.

''Fools, very soon I will be destroying you all!''

DEDEDE'S THRONE ROOM.

''I do not understand. Why would Sir Meta knight siding with Yamikage?'' Fumu voiced, everyone was here. Even the disinterested king and Escargon.

''If he wanted to side with Demon beasts, why was he toying with us before?!'' Dedede commented, he slammed his fist on Escargon's head. The king has a point, why would Meta knight stand in their way while they pulled out the demon beasts if he really sided with someone from the other side?

''Would it be possible that Meta knight was possessed by the crystal, like Kirby was?'' Sirica asked, but Sir Arthur knight shook his head.

''Is it true that Warp Star has returned?!'' Captain Dee replied, his gigantic eye is glowing full of curiosity.

''What is with the whole corruption thing? Don't we need to destroy the crystal right now?''

''Where is the traitor?!''

''Calm down everyone!'' Dakonyo roared, everyone flinched and stopped questioning. The drill sergeant sighed. ''Haven't you learnt nothing from two years ago?'' he was especially pointing out to Fumu and the rest who where on the island. ''No questions until the higher ups are done talking!''

''So everyone have to listen to me! Ha!'' Dedede bellowed, but all the death glares did call him a bit down strangely enough.

''When it comes to war, your Majesty.'' The drill sergeant replied ''You have no such experience when it comes to that.''

Escargon objected ''That is not true! We did fought against Nightmare! We joined with everyone in the Halberd!''

''You know that is very well not true,'' Sir Falspar sighed, his hand through his Mohawk hair. ''You were working with him in the past, and you have to be VERY grateful that I am not cutting your stupid head any soon.'' He threatened with a gleeful face.

''Falspar,'' Nonsurat scowled, Falspar only laughed. ''I am only half joking!'' But not everyone could laugh about it. Everbody, except the hardened war soldiers, was anxious what will happen next.

''Sir Dragato knight, what is the status right now?'' The leader questioned, while everybody was calming down. Sir Arthur Knight's voice seems to have the power to influence people, hence that they were all closely listening to what the commanders had to say.

''Excellent, sir.'' The indigo colored Star warrior reported ''It seems we've found the crystal location thanks to the … demon beast finder.'' He had difficulties to spell out such a ridiculous name. But Escargon was glowing with pride as he felt as his usefulness was fulfilled.

''Good,'' Sir Arthur pointed at his soldiers, ''From now on, everything will be very dangerous. We do not know of Meta knight and Yamikage's intentions and I want the civilians to stay here.'' The leader instructed. ''The commanders will be coming with me, and the rest will stay here to report the situation if necessary.''

''If you don't mind me asking,'' Fumu questioned modestly '' ''What are you going to do, Sir Arthur Knight?''''

''I am going to find the crystal and return Warp star in the right hands.'' He held up the Demon beast finder and the GSA commanders left the castle.

Escargon was glowing with pride, while Dedede was looking irritated. Fumu was in doubt, and Kirby was very confused.

So he wasn't wrong about his mentor?

PREVIEW:

Sir Arthur Knight's eyes widened as he saw the familiar shining crystal he saw so many of it in the war.

''I need you to listen to me,'' Meta knight said carefully. ''No matter what you think of me, I need you to listen to this.''

''What is left of Meta knight,'' Sir Arthur said in a grave voice ''Is his knight's honor.'' He paused to let the information sink in. ''He will be no more a part of GSA.''

''I am so disappoint in you. Meta knight.'' Meta knight flinched at the harsh words, this is first time Fumu didn't use the title. She was aware of his removal from the army. Understandable but a foolish comment. If she was taunting him in any way and her words were getting into him, then her very life is gambling on it.

''Poyo.,.'' Kirby sorrowfully gazed at the warp star in Yamikage's hand.

''I believe it's time to repay the debt, little star warrior!''

Cliffhanger.. huehue.

Reviews are welcome. It goes to many directions so I will summarize the next chapter. So don't worry about it if it is a bit confusing.

Some of you people might have figured out who the mysterious person in their dreams is. ;-)

Remember, the next chapter may take a while because of school.