Kingdom hearts: Fragment

by kirramagic

(AU KH3) Nozomi living in Bamboo town, one day is sent flying from her world when the Heartless destroy it. Caused by a mysterious mechanical winged individual. She gains a Keyblade and somehow encounters Riku along with King Mickey. From this point on, her true fate will gradually unveil itself as the conflict that started the Keyblade Wars begins again...

181. Return to the Radiant Gardens Part 19

Chapter CLXXVII: Discoveries, Arrivals, Apologies And The Turbulent Darkness
Return To The Radiant Gardens Part XIX

Quietly and stealthily Uriax entered the magical summoning zone and as he did, he saw below him his foes frolicking and having fun with the countless magical beasts that were within that space. His expression was blank as the leisurely scene continued, however looking to another space in the distant corner of that zone. There he saw quickly that both Greeble and Peekaboo were making their way carefully to certain corners of that zone which he designated for them to stay within until the initiation.

He revealed a small smile at this, however he was distracted for a brief moment as he saw one person in particular laughing loudly as a baby black and white pegasus continued to flutter about around her. Seeing her smiling face he then uttered quietly, "soon...it'll be very soon now, Nozomi."

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Meanwhile below catching Peter again within her arms, Nozomi laughed heartily as the small pegasus tried to struggle out of her grip! Trying to hold the little hyped up pegasus, she told him, "oh c'mon! Cut that out! C'mon you-"

Suddenly she stopped though as she felt something behind her, turning she looked to where this sensation was coming from. However there was nothing there... had she imagined it?

Peter staring at her as she did this, looked to the direction she had stared at too and as he did, he turned his head to the side curiously as he couldn't see anything himself.

Oralee in the meantime near to her had a small pink pegasus in her own arms, Cait sith on his princess's shoulder still he had to admit, "this one's a sprightly little un! Ain't she yer highness?"

Smiling as she nodded at his comment, she continued to hold the small creature as she turned and saw Nozomi's puzzled expression. Seeing her like this she paused for a moment but then she decided to ask her, "Nozomi? Are you okay?"

Hearing her, the female keyblader turned and looking back to her friend she quickly recovered and told her, "huh? Oh I'm fine Oralee don't worry! Just uh? Um... I thought there was..." however she decided not to dwell on it so concluded, "oh it's nothing! Don't worry okay?"

As her friend said this to her, Oralee simply nodded and seeing that his highness was a little worried about her, the small black and white cat told her trying to relieve her, "just believe her yer highness! I know she's an odd banshee! But if she's got somethin' to say to us, she'll say it okay?"

Hearing him say this to her, the princess of Alexandra wasn't happy to hear him call her friend a banshee. However she knew he meant well, so nodding to him she replied, "all right Cait sith, I'll trust your word to it."

To which in response the small black and white cat nodded, then suddenly the small pink pegasus within his majesty's hands had got loose! Seeing her go quickly the small cat cried out, "oi! Get back here ya runaway!" With that the chase of cat and pegasus began as Oralee chased after them both trying to regain peace!

Nozomi seeing them both go smiled quietly, however she turned away from them both for a moment and there in the distance she saw that Riku was interacting with Musashi in front of a purple Triceratops that was staring down at them curiously. Bonkers and Coco were there too and seemed to be keenly interested in their conversation as the bobcat cop added a few words here and there swinging his small baton about.

Looking at them both as they continued to talk, Nozomi was still feeling bad for not interacting with Riku for such a long time. The strong emotion that was inside of her was still there, however it just made her ache inside along with her guilt...as she gazed on she moved her right hand to her chest as she decided that soon, she was going to have a word with him like Serah and Oralee had suggested she should do. For they were right as she nodded silently, it was the only way to resolve things!

Then as she had come to this conclusion, suddenly from above a huge shadow came overhead, looking at it startled she asked, "is that-!?"

At that moment, Oralee had finally caught the pink pegasus in her arms again and as she did, she said softly, "looks like I've got you again, haven't I?"

Cait sith nodding then admitted proudly, "that ya have yer highness! Yer just as-"

Suddenly the small black and white cat stopped, as she turned hearing a loud swooshing sound from behind! Immediately she saw a red shape descend before Nozomi who'd stepped back in total surprise! Seeing this happen the princess of Alexandra quickly rushed forwards towards the event that was occurring immediately releasing the pink pegasus again in her hurry!

Mickey in the meantime who was interacting with Hana still and Serah who'd walked over sometime ago to join in the conversation, turned as well immediately as they did and saw the red shape too! It was fluid and fast as it swirled into the ground and quickly the shape rose up as a humanoid form came forth in a kneeling position. He was then quiet as the figure stood up and as he did, the mouse King recognised him in moments! Smiling he called out loudly, "Vincent!"

For there indeed right before Nozomi's eyes was the crimson red clad warrior who'd she'd met within Hercules's world. Seeing him her surprise turned into amazement as she brightened up with a smile and said,"Vincent it's you!?"

Having stood up and being as silent as ever and cool in his actions, he looked to Nozomi and uttered simply, "so it's you I see..."

Nodding pleased really happy to see him, Nozomi then asked him excitedly, "yeah! It's great to see you Vincent! How've you been? Have you been able to find-"

"Vincent!" It was then that Oralee arrived over and as she did she was smiling too. Arriving quickly before the stoic red clad man, the princess of Alexandra asked, "how have your investigations gone? Have you made any more progress?"

Hearing this single word, Nozomi repeated curiously, "investigations?"

Vincent seeing Oralee before him was silent for a moment before making his response bending his head and closing his eyes, "there have been no new discoveries as of yet... I also have not been able to locate that woman nor secure that book from her."

Hearing this Oralee was a little sad for him as she replied, "oh... I see, that's too bad Vincent."

The red clad man made no response to these words, however it was then that Nozomi had to ask curiously, "you're looking for something Vincent?"

As she asked this question, the serious toned man answered her, "... yes, I have recently been trying

to locate the sorceress known as Irma and obtain the tome Bebuzzu."

Surprised to hear this, Nozomi then had to ask, "Irma? You wanna find her and Bebuzzu?"

To which the now silent red dressed man simply nodded to in response.

Nozomi's interest now really was peaked, wanted to ask, "why? Why do you want to-"

It was then that Oralee gently interrupted and told her, "he wants to find her so he can read the dark book, there's been some evidence found that it might have the clues to lead us to Lucretia."

Puzzled as how she came to know this, Nozomi repeated, "Lucretia?" Then it was quickly she remembered, "oh that's right! Your loved one right Vincent?"

Seeing that the young girl was the same as ever, he knew that she'd only know if he answered her. So he gave her a one word reply, "correct."

Glad to know she'd got this right, Nozomi nodded happily, "that's good!" Though something else had occurred to her as she asked, "but how would that book know about her Vincent?"

As she asked this question it was then another voice chipped in,"indeed? How would it be in there Vincent?"

Turning quickly as she heard this voice, it was then Nozomi saw, "you majesty?"

Hearing her say this with surprise, Mickey nodded simply smiled happily as Serah walked over too behind him leaving Hana to keep caring for her fairies. Seeing Vincent the light pink haired girl waved to the quiet man, "heya Vince!"

The red clad man in response simply nodded to the fiancee of the 'ARCS' leader and looking to the king he asked him, "so I've peeked your curiosity too have I?"

At this question the King replied with a nod, "yep you have there Vincent, do you mind me asking you about it? Cause I think I might be able to help you out with it? Maybe?"

Quiet as he heard this... Vincent looking at the King's happy expression didn't know how to respond at first. However remembering conversations he had had with Merlin, he knew that Mickey had wisdom and knowledge that the ageing wizard didn't have... so in the pursuit of leads, he decided to indulge him, "very well then," with that he started to move forwards but stopping for a moment, he turned to the King and told him, "come with me if you wish to know."

Hearing this invitation the King immediately took it as he nodded and said, "right okay there Vincent!" With that the mouse keyblader went to catch up to him.

Nozomi herself watching after the King as he went, held herself back. For though she was curious she knew she wouldn't be able to give much to Vincent that he needed and she also knew that if she wanted to know more she could just ask Mickey later about it.

Oralee though seeing Mickey go after Vincent, she felt she had to be involved so turning to Nozomi and Serah, she quickly apologised as she said, "I'm sorry everyone! Please excuse me!" With that she went to chase after them both.

Seeing her friend go, Nozomi was a little surprised as she said, "wow... I didn't think Oralee would go after them both?"

Hearing her say this, Serah then told her with a smile, "yeah, well I'm not."

As she said this, Nozomi then decided to ask, "why's that?'

Serah hearing her ask then told her, "well since Vincent arrived with her, she's been helping him out as much she has us and I think she feels indebted to him... but I sometimes wonder if it's something more than that?"

Nozomi hearing this was surprised again, but as she looked at her friend again. She considered things for a moment and she knew it was just her caring nature that made her want to look after everyone including Vincent, so smiling herself now she then had to say, "I don't know about that... but Oralee just loves to help others, it's one of the reasons she's such a good friend."

As she said this Serah couldn't help but smile and putting her hand onto Nozomi's head she ruffled her hair as she told her, "that she is!"

This in turn made Nozomi smile again as she looked to her friend and with that they both went to go and tend to the Pegasi again, as some of them started flying about once again.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Sneaking quickly and carefully, finally both Greeble and Peekaboo had gotten into position! Heaving and breathing hard not used to moving around so much in such a long while, the plump pink chocobo had to whisper, "Oh! Oh! Oh! I'm not ready for this!" Then taking out a red polka dotted handkerchief out of his backpack he dabbed it over his forehead, with that after a few moments of dabbing he spoke again, "definitely not!"

However ignoring his complaints, Greeble peeked out from behind their hiding spot and as he did he quickly saw with alarm, "oh no!"

Forgetting his fatigue for a moment, Peekaboo curious asked, "huh? What''s up with ya Greeble?" With that walking over the plump chocobo then peeked over his shoulder too. Quickly he saw what it was that had got Greeble so flustered, for he was now getting nervous too!

For there talking just some distance away, was Vincent who was interacting with Mickey and Oralee with Cait sith on her shoulder.

Trembling slightly Peekaboo then uttered worried, "oh no! Not that red guy again!"

Greeble was shuddering too, for he remembered the various times that Vincent had been searching for them, he had tried at all lengths and methods to capture them both. Those incidents had been totally nightmarish!

Peekaboo clearly suffering from those bitter memories said, "I don't wanna have another bullet shower again or have those nasty claws reach after us! I-"

Greeble though silenced him as he said mad, "oh shut up Peekaboo! We're not gonna go through that again!" Then looking quickly he saw that Gandrake, Lady Irma and Volg were making progress too! As he saw them all getting into their ordered positions a small grin then spread across his beak as he said, "besides, when that Uri guy gets this scheme underway! He's gonna be the one wreaking havoc for us!"

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Meanwhile Nozomi was once again playing with Peter as Mickey continued talking to Vincent along with Oralee. With Serah helping her, the two of them had got control over the Pegasi again and quickly they had ushered them back into Carbuncle's bubble to calm them all down again.

Feeling proud as she saw the little winged horses calm down to sleep again, Serah had her hands on her hips as she said with a nod, "looks like we've done a well done job huh?"

Nodding Nozomi replied, "yeah! We have!" Then as she turned her head to the side, she saw in the distance Alania and Shirma together as they were tending to the unicorns... looking to them, Nozomi had this nagging sensation again inside. She had to ask them!

Turning to her fellow pegasus babysitter she told her, "sorry Serah! I need to go and ask Alania and Shirma about something a second, can you take care of things alone for a minute?"

Hearing her ask this question, Serah looked at her as she wondered what it was she wanted to ask the two mages. However she knew she'd be fine on her own, so she told the female keyblader, "sure, go ahead! I'll be fine here."

Glad to hear this Nozomi nodded and with that she was on her way to ask her questions, with Peter following after her still. Serah looking at her as she went couldn't help but say, "looks like tat Pegasus is totally attached to her huh?" Then she thought aloud, "I wonder what she's gonna ask those two?"

Meanwhile the two spoken about mages were busy organising the unicorns, trying to gain a little order again as Carbuncle continued to sit upon her shoulder Alania uttered,"wow... who'd think we'd be busy with this all day?"

Hearing her ask this question, Shirma told her, "nobody I'd say! But we're having fun here aren't we?"

As she asked this question, Alania saw her adoptive sister hugging a purple unicorn with both hands as though she were hugging a teddy bear. Seeing she hadn't changed at all since they were little, the summoner rolled her eyes as she told her with a smile, "yeah of course we are!" Then pleased to hear this too, Carbuncle stroked his head into her cheek making Alania smile all the more.

Nodding at this and laughing as she saw Carbuncle nuzzle her sister, Shirma was about to say something else when-

"Hey guys!" Turning then both girls and summon saw Nozomi quickly approaching them with Peter trailing after her.

Seeing her coming, Shirma then smiled to her too as she said, "oh hi Nozomi! Are you here to help us look after the unicorns too?"

Making her way over to them, Nozomi answered, "no! No, sorry I'm not, um?" With that she turned her gaze to Alania.

Seeing her look at her, the summoner was puzzled. Why was she staring at her?

Nozomi then asked her, "Alania, this stranger you met before... I heard you mentioned that he had long lilac coloured hair, pale blue eyes and dark skin right?"

Hearing her say this description, the summoner was surprised she'd remembered or even that she'd heard her! However wondering why she was so curious about this, Alania told her, "yeah that's right...why?"

Nozomi hearing this confirmation, then decided to ask her, "well there's just one other thing I was wondering about... did this person, did he have a mark on his forehead?"

Puzzled at this comment, Alania repeated, "a mark?"

Nodding again, Nozomi asked her, "yeah, did he have a blue teardrop or a raindrop shape on his forehead?" With that she pointed to her own forehead to give her more of an indication where she meant.

Seeing her do this with surprise again, Alania was quiet... then putting her hand to her chin, she stopped as she thought about it, "hmm... did he have something like that?"

Nozomi was quiet as she watched her expression as she was thinking hard to herself. The blue haired girl was concentrating her thoughts hard as she tried to remember... then after a few moments as his image came back to her mind. She'd got it! Looking to Nozomi she told her, "Yeah! Yeah he did, I remember now! He did have one."

Then looking to Nozomi she saw the startled expression on her face and as she did, the summoner realised, "hey? Is that guy someone you know Nozomi?"

Hearing her ask this, immediately the female keyblader couldn't believe it! Excitement started to fill her as she told the summoner, "yeah I do! He's an old childhood friend of mine! His name is Wairu!" Then as she thought about it more, she was so happy as she said, "so he's made it! He's here in the Radiant Gardens! I'm so glad..." for she had so much relief inside... her friend was safe! He was alive... this was great! Peter staring at her as she did this was puzzled as he continued to flutter on staring on curiously.

Seeing the happiness that was on her face, Alania was surprised that she'd stumbled upon something so miraculous! Then she saw Nozomi turn to her again and as she did, the keyblader asked her, "Alania? If you happen to see him again, could you tell him I'm here too? Could you to tell him to wait for me?"

At this question, Alania recovered herself from her surprise and as she did, she told her with a smile of her own, "sure! I'll be more than glad to!" With that she then stroked Carbuncle's head happily.

Shirma hearing this also said brightly, "yeah! Same here, I'll let him know the same thing if I see him too, Nozomi."

Nodding happily, Nozomi then said, "thanks guys!"

As she said this there was then a pleasant happy and excited atmosphere around everyone, but suddenly before she could do anything else-

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

"Urgh! Finally!" Irma complained as she got to her hidden destination. She hated this situation! Having to listen to the orders of that intruder! But what could she do though? When he still had Bebuzzu in his clutches and now-

"Are you alright my lady?"

Hearing this concerned question, the dark sorceress turned to her dark chocobo minion who was looking at her with slight worry.

Irma though was not in the mood to have sympathy nor pity at that moment and so replied with slight agitation, "I'm fine! I just want this to be over with... and to have my Bebuzzu back!" With that she turned her gaze to the direction she knew 'Him' to be!

Seeing that she was still seething with rage, Volg told her trying to soothe it, "and you will my lady! You'll have him back real soon!" Then he added in a serious deadly tone of his own as he gazed at their foes, "I'll make sure of it!"

Hearing this Irma liked this tone more and so she responded simply, "good then!" With that as she said those words, it was then the door to the Fountain Courtyards was opened and as it did, she spoke seeing her old tutor, "so... the old man's returned huh?"

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

The door to the Summoning Zone opened and there quickly she saw Merlin had returned and with him were-

"Lightning!" Serah cried out, for there indeed was her older sister with Hope walking behind her! Immediately she ran to meet up with her.

Seeing her too, quickly Nozomi herself brightened more too as she cried out, "Miss Lightning! Hope!" With that she ran after Serah as well to meet up with the amazing female soldier and her apprentice. With Peter tailing after her still who was now becoming excited by this brightened cry.

Alania seeing her go, then couldn't help but muse, "well looks like someone's happy to see Light huh?"

Nodding Shirma added, "yeah! Well she does have a lot of admirers!"

This was something that the summoner couldn't disagree with, but getting back to the matter at hand she said, "well let's get back to organising these guys huh?"

Shirma then agreed as she said, "okay!" With that both mages returned to their caring work over the unicorns.

Up ahead Snow who was continuing to hang out with Sazh along with his son Dajh, Musashi, Riku and Juan including Bonkers and Coco. As they all continued to hang out with the dinosaurs, he saw Lightning plus Hope coming and as he did, he decided to go and meet up with her too as he cried out running over waving his arm, "hey sis!"

Merlin seeing everyone coming their way had to admit with an air of amusement as he stroked his long white beard, "ah? Looks like we have a welcoming committee already?

Nodding Hope agreed with him as he said, "looks like it," the white haired young man then had to add to Lightning, "and it still looks like you're the most popular, Light!"

Hearing this the female soldier didn't want this to be talked about so much, so she uttered with slight embarrassment, "don't go on about it!"

Hope simply giggled at this response, then looking he saw that finally both girls and the 'ARCS' bold leader had made it over to them. As he did, he quietly watched to see what would occur next.

Finally making it over her sister, Serah really pleased told her taking her hands into her own, "Lightning! I'm so glad you could make it here!"

Hearing her sister say this, Lightning was a little embarrassed to hear this and so told her, "well, the training ended earlier than I expected so-"

"Truth is she hurried the session so we could make it here sooner!" Hope added with a grin on his face!

Immediately Lightning gave him a harsh embarrassed look, why would he go and-

Serah though pleased more simply shook her hands as she said, "that's great! It's good you did that!You train too much Lightning!"

The strong female warrior, embarrassed again simply said a little annoyed in response, "I only do enough that's necessary!"

Hope hearing this couldn't help but giggle more at her reply. As he did this, it was then that Nozomi came over with Peter still following after her and as she made it, she waved saying, "hi there Hope! Miss Lightning!"

Seeing her coming Hope smiled and walked over holding his hand out for it to be shaken as he said, "hey Nozomi! How've you been doing?"

Taking his hand into her own, the female keyblader brightened as she said, "fine! We've been doing great!" Then curious she asked, "how've you been doing?"

At this question Hope told her, "same as ever, Lightning trains me! We hang out with the "ARCS' sometimes and we try to keep an eye out for Irma, you know the usual."

Nodding Nozomi replied, "I see," then looking to Lightning as she took her hand out of Hope's hand she told her, "you both always work really hard, don't you?"

Hearing this comment, the strong female soldier replied,"if that's what you wanna believe, then yes!" For she was getting tired now of all these compliments.

Confused thinking that this was a little harsh, Nozomi didn't know how to respond to this.

However Hope knowing her now simply told the female keyblader, "don't worry Nozomi, she's just embarrassed with all this praise, she just doesn't know how to accept it very well."

Hearing this from Hope she looked to Lightning a little curiously, however the strong woman was doing her best to avoid her gaze. It was then looking at her that Nozomi could tell she was embarrassed as she saw a slight blush on her cheeks so she simply smiled at this reaction.

Merlin was glad to see this occur and he was about to say something when suddenly-

"Hey sis! Hey guys!" Snow announced as he walked over smiling brightly now too.

Seeing him coming, Lightning though quickly recovered her serious composure and as she did she told him annoyed, "I thought I told you to quit calling me sis!"

However ignoring this, Snow just simply grinned and he asked, "have you guys come to see the summoning zone?"

Lightning then replied dryly, "obviously!" Then looking ahead she saw Juan ahead waving to them from the top of a tall Brontosaurus looking crazy as usual with Sazh and Dajh tending to little infant dinosaurs who were running around left and right. While Musashi and Riku too were helping out as well trying to keep order as Bonkers ran around on Coco trying to stop the little Triceratops from tripping people up!

Seeing them like this with the various little summoned creature's running around left and right. She spoke her honest first thoughts looking at this sight, "though it looks like you guys have made a mess of chaos here!"

Feeling a little awkward at this statement, Snow laughed as he admitted, "yeah I guess... but it's a fun chaos!" He admitted while scratching the back of his head.

At this comment, Lightning though said a little coldly, "that I'll have to see for myself!"

Serah smiling then told her big sister, "and that you will! C'mon!" With that she dragged Lightning forwards hurriedly to show her the delights that were within the summoning zone! Seeing her being dragged in a hurry Hope followed after her as did Snow. For if there was anyone here who could convince the strong female solider this place was fun, it was her own sister!

With that seeing the lot of his invited guests going Merlin then proceeded forwards too. Though as he did, Nozomi quickly asked him, "so Mr Merlin sir? Is there anybody else coming to the zone?"

At her question the master magician told the female keyblader, "oh yes lass! The rest of the Restoration committee should be arriving here soon! Along with Scrooge himself so there'll be all fun and fireworks very soon!"

Nodding hearing this, Nozomi then admitted, "I'll be glad to see that!" Then quickly she remembered, "oh yeah! I've got something to tell you!"

Hearing the excitement in her voice Merlin then asked her with a smile of his own, "and just what that might be lass?"

Nozomi then told him really happily, "it looks like you'll be able to meet my friend soon! The one who I told you about who's powerful with magic?"

Merlin hearing this was confused at first but then he remembered who it was she was talking about as he said, "oh yes lass! The one you suggested who could become my apprentice, right?"

Pleased to see that he remembered, Nozomi nodded happily and said, "yeah that's right! My friend, Wairu!"

"Wairu?"

Stopping her in her tracks, it was then that Nozomi turned and saw that before her it was none other than Riku! For she and Merlin had arrived in the Dino part of the zone where the rest of the 'ARCS' were. Looking at him, she forgot what it was she was talking about for a moment as she stared at her fellow keyblader. As he looked at her though, he had to ask, "have you found something out Nozomi?"

Immediately hearing his voice again, the female keyblader felt her heart begin to beat like mad once more with that unusual feeling! However she wasn't going to let it control her anymore! Looking to Riku, she had to talk about it with him and with what happened before within Melody's world, however not there so she spoke, "Ri... Riku, um? Can we talk somewhere else please?"

Hearing her say this, the white haired young man immediately assumed, "oh? You don't want to talk to me right now," then turning around and away from her he said, "well I'm sorry I'll just-"

"NO!"

Turning as she said this so loudly, along with everyone else they all stared at her oddly. The young man looked at her surprised and quickly he and the others saw that she was terribly embarrassed as she said, "uh, no! I mean, I wanna talk to you now but just not here... could we talk somewhere else...please?"

Hearing her ask this, Riku stared at her quietly. But he was glad at least for this, so he told her, "uh, sure okay?"

With that said he saw Nozomi nod and quickly she told him pointing in a certain direction, "well...let's go over there then," with that she walked on ahead with Peter still following her and as she went. He made his way to catch up to her, however he wondered to himself... why did it feel so awkward right at that moment?

Watching them go, Juan sitting on the top of his tall Brontosaurus couldn't help but say with a smile, "looks like those two pájaros del amors are gonna be busy! Hey Poncho?"

However his pink axolotl partner simply stared on as blankly and quietly as ever as he saw Nozomi and Riku go to another spot of the zone with Peter fluttering after them now, truly curious!

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Now making it to his appointed position, Gandrake could see the others were all ready to go too! Seeing this he nodded quietly to himself, though he had no idea how things were gonna play out. There was no way he was gonna disobey anyone who would give him the legendary Muramasa blade for free!

Quickly getting down, he prepared himself as he brought out a single dark shard from his pocket. As it brimmed with its sinister powers he readied himself as he placed it on the ground. Doing this the dark object reacted in moments as something like twisted thorny roots emerged from it and quickly they set themselves into the bricked floor!

Seeing that it was properly ready as it started to radiate it's dark energy, Gandrake then quickly removed another something from his coat, a small mirror. Then using it in the light he made the signal! With that he received two returning light signals from the others who had their own mirrors prepared. Seeing them he then nodded and quietly he waited for the others to finish their preparations! The plan was nearly all set to go!

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Finally making it to a quiet spot away from everyone else, Peter still had insisted on following after them both despite the female keyblader trying to persuade him to go. But since he was only young, he wouldn't say a word or make things anymore awkward, so now Nozomi and Riku were facing each other... however, who should speak first?

Riku at that moment didn't know what to do? He was glad that Nozomi now wanted to talk to him, but what did she want to converse about? Also why did she want to talk to him alone like this? What-?

"Riku?"At once his attention was drawn back to her. As it was, he stared at her and she was wringing her hands...

Feeling a little uncomfortable he asked her, "yeah Nozomi?"

Seeing that she'd got his attention, the female keyblader was still combating this pulsating feeling inside. However she had to say something! So she said the first the words that really started off all of this, "I'm sorry!"

Riku was silent as he stared at her perplexed, Nozomi then continued on, "I'm really sorry I've been awkward with you! Since... since you saved me before, I haven't known how to talk to you properly! I haven't known... how to behave and... I'm sorry if I've hurt you...or if you dislike me badly now."

Hearing her as she said this, Riku was utterly silent... however after a moment he couldn't help but smile. Then he giggled at this, so this was all she was really worried about?

At this sound of laughter Nozomi was perplexed, then she asked feeling a little irritated slightly, "hey! What're you laughing about!? Why-"

Riku then interrupted her as he said, "that this is just like you! You've gotten over stressed about things again! Did you really think I'd dislike you badly just because of your behaviour recently or what happened before?"

Stunned silent as she heard this, Nozomi though had to argue getting more embarrassed by the minute, "but... I mean, why wouldn't you though!? I mean I'm-"

"Yeah I admit it, you're argumentative! You're stubborn! You often don't think before you act! You can be total bubble head on occasions and I have to endure your naiveté at the worst of times," the white haired keyblader spoke on casually as he made a small list of her faults.

Silent as she heard this, Nozomi was now getting really irritated as she then said, "hey! I'm not that bad! Besides I have to endure you and your stupid side too! You dumb snowball!" With that she turned her head to the side mad!

Seeing her say this though Riku was far from mad himself as he said to her with a smile, "my point exactly!" With that he surprised Nozomi as she turned back to look at him, he walked on over to her and patted his hand on her head, stroking her black hair.

As he did this, the female keyblader was startled! However Riku continued as he told her, "you and I have been together for a long time... I wouldn't dislike you just because of this, I mean it... there's no way I'd hate you, you're as good as you are now."

Hearing these words as she looked up at him and feeling him stroke her head gently, Nozomi's heart pulsed strongly inside again. As it did that strange feeling pulsated strongly inside of her again. However it was far more warm and soothing inside, so much that she couldn't help but stare at him now with a smile as she said his name, "Riku..."

Peter staring at this interaction as it occurred between the two keybladers didn't know what was going on exactly as he turned his head to the side curiously, then suddenly in the corner of his eye he saw something. Immediately the small pegasus turned his head and stared...

Nozomi though staring up at Riku felt him remove his hand from her head, as he did she felt like she had to admit to him. "You know Riku... I feel the same about you, though we argue a lot and stuff, I enjoy being with you so much along with the King and Cait sith...I mean it..."

Hearing this Riku still smiling told her, "I'm glad to hear that."

Nodding Nozomi though then felt her heart race as she felt she had to admit something else, "plus there's something else... I've been feeling lately."

Confused as she said this Riku asked her, "something else?"

Once again Nozomi nodded as she started to admit some of what this feeling was, "yeah... my heart's been racing like mad recently when I think of you and... I get so warm inside that I don't know what to do..." then her heart pulsed strongly as she was getting more and more embarrassed talking about it. However she thought it'd be better to ask him, "Riku do you know what-"

"NEIGH!"

Suddenly distracting both keybladers Peter cried out loudly and suddenly he raced high and into the air! Seeing him go, quickly Nozomi cried out, "Peter!? What're you doing! Where are you going!?"

However the small pegasus wasn't listening as he took off forwards, seeing him go Nozomi knew though she couldn't let him fly away like this!

So she spoke, "darn!" Then taking off quickly, she turned back to Riku and told him sincerely, "sorry Riku! I'll finish this conversation off in a second, okay?"

Hearing her say this he told her, "no it's fine don't worry! I can wait, just don't make it too long okay?"

Nodding she then told him positively, "don't worry I won't be!" With that she took off into the air and went to chase after Peter!

Riku though on the ground as he watched her leave was puzzled, what feeling was it she was talking about before? Then as he wondered about it, his own heart raced thinking... it couldn't be that could it?

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Back on the ground in the distance Mickey had finished talking to Vincent about Lucretia and the evidence he'd gathered so far. The mouse king was in serious considerations as he thought about the information he'd been given as he thought with a hand to his chin.

After some long silent moments, Vincent then decided to ask the King, "so what would you say? Do you believe it to be at all possible?"

Mickey then lifting up finally made his reply as he told him, "yeah... I think it's highly likely there... the descriptions sound the same and I already know what Bebuzzu's capable of devouring! So it's not impossible to believe he could go that far!"

Nodding Cait sith agreed as he told the mouse King, "ya got that right Mickey lad! I mean meself and me highness along with the rest of us lot could see it!"

Oralee nodded as she said, "yes... we did see it and it was a terrifying sight to be hold!"

The king agreed as he added, "yeah it was... and it's not one I want any of us fella's to go through again! Plus... if Bebuzzu is capable of that! I'd hate to see what could be unleashed if Irma ever managed to-"

"Peter! Oh C'mon Peter! Get back here!"

Distracted by these sudden loud shouts, everyone then saw in the air Nozomi was chasing after Peter as he was flying quickly in and about out of the keyblader's grasp fast at a determined speed! He seemed to be heading in one certain direction.

Seeing this happen though everyone just saw the same fun as ever Nozomi was having with the small Pegasus. Vincent who'd been silent up until this point had to admit in his cold tone, "still carefree as ever I see."

Nodding Oralee had to add feeling a little awkward slightly as she said, "yes it seems so..."

Mickey then couldn't help smile further for a moment. However the thought of Bebuzzu haunted him, for if Vincent was right in thinking about what was in his past... it was clear the future of the Radiant Gardens was going to be in further jeopardy, if the true monster within that book was ever unleashed!

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Uriax getting the final signal from his cohorts as they all signalled with the flashes of light from their mirrors. It was time for him to initiate the final stage! Moving Bebuzzu up for a moment in his right hand he then moved his left over it in a swift glowing motion, immediately the book became invisible!

Seeing this he told the dark tome with a sinister grin, "now go! Wait for the right moment where you can devour, Bebuzzu!"

Hearing these words the malevolent tome then couldn't help but say loudly as the sound of licking was heard, "Yum! Yum!" With that he flew down below to wait for the right moment to strike!

Uriax then satisfied went to move his own dark shard from within his pocket, as he did this he uttered, "and with this... the final chaos will commence and everyone here will-"

Suddenly though he was interrupted as something immediately came up and started to stroke his cheek into his own! Baffled as he felt this he cried out, "hey what the-!?"

Then looking he quickly saw it was the small black and white pegasus that had he'd seen fluttering about! Seeing it at first he didn't know what to think, however as he saw the really happy smile on the animals face. He sighed, "of all thing's to be found out by, it's a pegasus."

Peter though unexpectedly now really liked his new find! So he nuzzled into him all the more pleased as he neighed happily!

Uriax though a little annoyed at first couldn't fault an animal, so humoured he told the beast as a smile came to his own face. "Hey c'mon now! Cut this out! I don't have time to be entertaining the likes of you! I have to-"

"PETER!?"

Suddenly with shock, Uriax recognised that voice! "Nozomi!" He uttered. He had to do something quick! However there was no space to hide in here! So he had o do the next best thing, "darn it!" He spoke as he quickly uttered a spell over himself!

In that moment suddenly Nozomi arrived and as she did, she cried out, "Peter where are you!? What are you-!" Then quickly she saw him and as she did, she ran up and said, "there you are!" With that she caught him in her arms!

As she did the laughing pegasus was desperately trying to get her attention as he was trying to point to who he had found excitedly, however she paid no heed to this as she told him mad,"what did you think you were doing! Flying away like that!? Don't you realise what could happen to you if you-!"

Then she stopped and as she did, Nozomi then saw that before her was a man. He was older then her, maybe in his early thirties? However he was masked, with a hood over his head. Seeing him Nozomi was curious about him, but looking to Peter she quickly realised what must have happened, "oh I'm sorry sir! Was Peter bothering you? I'm so sorry about that!"

Then looking to the little Pegasus in her arms again, she told him crossly, "you see Peter! You've caused a disturbance! You shouldn't go around bothering people like that!" The baby Pegasus though only neighed in a chipper way, not understanding the fact he had done anything wrong.

Nozomi sighed as he did this, however the man only let out a small laugh as he told her in a deep rich voice, "it's fine don't worry! He wasn't disturbing me too much."

Glad to know this Nozomi then told him, "oh I'm glad to know that!" Then looking at the man... she felt something about him? Curious she asked, "um...? Sir have I seen you before somewhere?"

The man hearing this told her casually, "I don't believe so young lady, I only arrived sometime ago within this place."

Hearing this Nozomi replied, "oh I see... okay?" However as she went to move, something inside of her stopped her from moving forwards. A sensation was telling her that there was something more to this man? But what though?

The man then seeing her not leave asked her curiously, "might enquire though?"

Turning back to him as he asked, Nozomi responded, "yes?"

The man then asked her his question, "what made you think we met before?"

Hearing this Nozomi became curious more as she asked the man, "why do you ask?"

There was then an escape of something from his lips like a chuckle as he gave her a short reply, "you may call it curiosity."

Blinking as she heard this, Nozomi didn't quite understand this man but she decided to give him her answer anyway, "well... for a moment you, I don't know... somehow you made me think of a lost friend of mine, I've been searching for him and..." she couldn't really think of what else to say, however she was feeling foolish. This man didn't look anything like Wairu! So she finished saying, "oh it's nothing! Sorry I'm just being an idiot!"

Hearing this the man was quiet for a moment before he told her, "not at all... but this lost friend of yours, have you been searching for him for a long time?"

At this question Nozomi then nodded as she told him, "yes! Yes I have!... I've been so worried about him, ever since we were torn from our own world," she then became terribly saddened as she thought of him... then she told the man, "I don't know how he's been doing! But I hope he's been alright... plus I've heard he's been seen around town recently! So I'm sure we'll be able to meet again soon!"

Hearing the excitement in her voice the man sounded pleased somehow, he then told her, "I see... well don't worry, I'm sure you'll meet him soon," then he added looking at her directly, "very soon..."

As he said this, Nozomi could sense the absolute certainty and as she heard this she smiled brightly and told him before leaving with Peter in her arms, "thank you sir! I hope you have a nice time while you're here, bye!"

The man standing back as she left then said softly, "don't worry Nozomi I will... and you will meet with me, very, very soon!" With that he brought the dark shard from out of his pocket and instantly it began to radiate with sinister shadows.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Down below on the ground Merlin was still hanging out with Snow, and his 'ARCS,' Sazh plus his son along with Lightning and Hope who were busy talking to Bonkers and Coco. He was pleased with the happiness that the summoning zone had created for all those who were within it.

Having seeing the delights of the zone, it was then that Sazh walked over to the ageing magician and he clapped the man on the shoulder as he told him, "Merlin, this zone thing you came up with, with Alania and Shirma is amazing! It's way more than I was ever expecting for me and my son!"

Merlin nodding as he heard this, then told Sazh, "thank you Sazh! It took a lot of work to prepare the magic and find the right books to summon from, but it all paid off in the end!"

It was then that he felt a tugging on his right sleeve, as he did this he looked down and saw Dajh looking up to him. Seeing him do this the magician then heard the young boy ask, "Merlin? How do you keep all the magical animals up and in here?"

As he heard this question, Merlin smiled at the young boy's curiosity and so he decided to reveal it to him, "I use this lad!" With that he pulled the yellow crystal from within his robes and as he did, it shone in the light revealing its powerful magical potency.

Seeing it the young boy was amazed at the crystal and he couldn't help but say one word, "wow...!"

Nodding the ageing magician was pleased with his reaction as he told him, "I know, it is amazing isn't it?"

The young boy then nodded pleased with having seen this crystal and immediately he responded, "yeah it is! It's really cool Merlin!"

Sazh hearing this then stroked his son's head as he told him, "yep it is Dajh! Yes it is," with that the father was quiet as Merlin began to explain to them how the crystal worked as it continued to shine in the light.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

At that moment as both Greeble and Peekaboo saw the crystal emerge from within Merlin's robes. It was clearly the time to act!

Seeing it, quickly the peppermint green chocobo then told his bumbling accomplice, "okay! Peekaboo! We're gonna do it! Let's charge forward!"

However in all this time of waiting, the pink chocobo had started munching on some chocolate balls from a packet as he sat in front of their dark shard. He complained, "aww can't I finish eating first?"

Annoyed at this comment as he looked at him, Greeble ignored him and instead declared loudly as he pointed forwards, "CHARGE!" With that he launched himself from out of the bushes!

Seeing him go, quickly the plump chocobo got a fist full of chocolates and stuffed them into his mouth, Peekaboo then managing to swallow and not choke chased after him as he shouted out loudly, "HEY! GREEBLE!" With that their dark shard started to emit more shadows sinisterly as it's powers grew and grew!

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

"CHARGE!"

"HEY! GREEBLE!"

Suddenly distracted by these two loud shouts, there was no time for anyone to react as they all turned in shock and-

"Ha! Mine!"

With that shout immediately Greeble snatched the yellow gem from Merlin's hand as he ran off forwards with it! Then behind him Peekaboo was aching madly as he was trying to catch up!

Seeing this happen quickly the ageing magician cried out, "hey! You! You there!" Then suddenly turning to the perplexed 'ARCS' he cried out loudly, "stop that thief!"

Immediately hearing his cry everyone started to try and catch the two elusive chocobo's! But the most keen to do this was, "charge Coco! Let's get 'em!" Quickly Bonkers and his trusty best pal ran forwards to apprehend the criminals!

As they ran together away from the 'ARCS' Peekaboo turned back and saw Bonkers along with Coco coming for them, the plump pink chocobo was in distress as he cried out, "oh! Greeble they're all catchin' up to us!"

The most intellectual bird hearing this was on high alert! Immediately he turned left and right as he looked around desperately for-! Then suddenly he saw a glimmer in the air! He was here and it was time! Quickly a grin came to his beak as he told his bumbling accomplice, "well they're all in trouble! Cause we're gonna catch them all!"

With that he threw in the gem with another shout, "Bebuzzu it's dinner time!"

Then in seconds, the dark tome removed the invisibility spell that had covered him and immediately he licked his bookish jaws as he cried out, "OH! YUM! YUM!" Then the demonic book raced down to devour his new treat!

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Finally making it out with Peter in her arms Nozomi then told the naughty baby pegasus, "now don't you go running off like that again Peter! Don't you realise just how much trouble you-"

"OH! YUM! YUM!"

Then looking down as she heard this loud horrible familiar dreadful tone, Nozomi saw with horror Bebuzzu and what he was about to do! Acting quickly as she could the female keyblader raced down as she released Peter hurriedly letting him flutter away in confusion as she cried out loudly, "NOOOO!"

But it was too late as like before Bebuzzu snapped up the glittering crystal into his bookish jaws! As it did this it was then that Riku came out from where he was waiting for Nozomi. Quickly he too saw what was occurring and he ran forwards shouting out loudly too, "STOP IT!"

The King who was still standing with Vincent and Oralee along with Cait sith turned and saw quickly what was happening too! As he did he was fearful in moments as he ran forwards and yelled, "BEBUZZU!"

Hana who'd been tending to her fairies then saw with horror was happening too! Quickly she started to run forwards to stop what was occurring as she cried, "oh no!"

Then behind her quickly Ruby followed after her as he cried out, "Hanahime!"

Seeing what was happening too, Alania was on high alert and immediately taking out her staff she ran forwards shouting, "oh not again! Not here not now!" Quickly as she left Carbuncle was right behind her as he floated onwards with determination!

Looking at her as she left, Shirma went to chase after her as she cried out, "Alania!" For she couldn't let her go into this alone!

As the King ran Cait sith saw what was happening too and quickly he cried out hugging his majesty, "Oh bloomin heck no!"

But it was too late for anyone to intervene as Bebuzzu jostled with the crystal and then quickly slapping it with his red bookmarked tongue, he separated the dazzling yellow magic out of it! Then as the glittering warm substance spilled forth he opened up wide and in another movement he snapped it all up!

Everyone froze in place as quickly the terrible book reacted to the magic as it made him glow all over with terrible yellow electricity! Immediately the book then shouted out loudly, "OH! OH! OOOHHHHHH!"

Then quickly the terrible tome flipped up and from within his terrible centre a huge storm of magic burst forth creating a huge dark tornado that once again began sucking in everything and everyone around it!

The three keybladers who'd nearly made it to the book were immediately all thrown back as they all cried out, "AAAAGGGGHHHH!"

In horror as this started to happen again, Juan cried out loudly, "oh not again Muchacho's!"

Lightning however wasn't going to let this twice as she cried out, "not this time!" With that she brought out her long blade!

Immediately seeing her do this, Sazh went to do the same as he said agitated taking out his pistols, "exactly I'm not gonna let those guy's ruin this zone!"

However quickly his son was worried as he asked him, "but dad-"

Stopping his fear's the gunner told him as gently as he could despite the situation, "don't worry Dajh! Dad'll take care of this real soon!" Then turning to Snow's fiancee he asked the caring girl, "hey Serah? Think ya can look after Dajh for me?"

Quickly the light haired pink girl nodded as she said, "yeah sure don't worry!"

With that the gunner nodded and quickly he took off as Snow announced, "C'mon guys! Let's take care of this mess!" With that he ran following after Sazh!

"Charge fella's!" Cried Bonkers as he pointed forwards with his baton! Coco immediately ran at his command as he cried out, "KWEH!"

Seeing his commander go along with Bonkers, Musashi quickly cried out, "hey wait up Snow dude!" With that he took out his katana as he ran and quickly with Juan chasing after him, the 'ARCS' were now on the case!

Juan as he went then cried out, "let's put an end to this libro demonio!" With that he brought out his own pistols!

In the distance running forwards towards the chaos, Oralee saw she was too late to help as she said, "oh no! What can't-"

However putting his golden claw on her shoulder as he quickly came up beside her, Vincent told her, "no we can! There's still something that can be done!" Looking to the young girl he told her as gently as he could, "now stay here! I'll go forth!" With that he launched forwards to retrieve that dark book!

Seeing him go, Oralee was fearful as she cried out,"but-"

Cait sith though finished her sentence for her as he cried out, "but ya can't do it alone! Come back here ya dummy!" With that the small black and white cat ran forwards to stop the red clad man!

Oralee seeing him go then cried out in more alarm, "Cait sith no!"

But it was too late as the two of them left and in the distance seeing that was all going to plan, Irma decided it was now time to act! Quickly a sinister smile came to her face, "okay! Now I'd say it's time for the clencher!"

Seeing the chaos that was occurring Volg couldn't deny he was enjoying himself as he told his lady, "I believe you're right my lady!"

Nodding as she heard this, Irma then initiated the final part of the plan as she snapped her fingers! Quickly as she did this the three dark crystals that had been left about suddenly activated as they started to emit sinisterly with darkness! Then in moments as they started to spin at high, high speeds quickly in a thunderous wave a huge black blanket spilled forth and smothered the entire zone in a black shadow!

Seeing the darkness spread forth, Irma then smiling with delighted, "now let's go and get the rest of us shall we?"

Nodding at this suggestion, Volg agreed as he told her, "yes my lady! Let us!" With that they both teleported away to fetch the rest of their accomplices!

As this happened everyone in the zone couldn't see anything in this darkness! However there was no time for anyone to act as the terrible winds of Bebuzzu began to pick up! In the air Nozomi awoke herself from the terrible spin she'd been put through and as she did, she cried out as she saw all the darkness that was around her, "what is this!? What is-"

"AAAAAAGGGGGHHHH!"

There was then suddenly loud shouts and screams all around her as she could hear everyone and the beasts of the summon zone! Their voices were all being drowned out as they were all being sucked away into the terrible tome, all lost in this blanket of shadows!

Looking around horrified Nozomi tried to see anyone! She even screamed out for them! "GUYS!" There was nothing! But she couldn't give up! But what could she-!?

Then suddenly there in the swarming darkness she saw, "RIKU!" Immediately she tried to fly to him as he was being swept up into the shadows!

Hearing her voice, the white haired keyblader twisting in the air saw her too as she started to come toward him! Reaching out desperately to her he cried out, "NOZOMI!"

She was getting closer and closer to him as her wings beat strongly, she desperately tried to reach him! Their fingertips were millimetres from touching each other, but suddenly Riku was absorbed into the darkness! "AAAAGGGGHHHH!"

Horrified as this happened Nozomi cried out, "Riku no!" With that she went to go after him but suddenly she felt a hand clasp onto her own from behind.

As she did she went to turn but as she did, a voice that spoke with a sinister smile as he told her, "you see, I told you we'd meet again soon!"

She recognised that voice it was-

However she didn't have time to process anymore as suddenly she felt a jolt from within that made her lose consciousness! As the darkness consumed her and the screaming chaotic world around her, she felt strong arms cradle and hold her as they carried her away within this ensuing turbulent shadowed madness...