Chapter 15.9: Sora's Chain Of Memories Part 9
[Open to Sora's Dive to the Heart]
[Play Kingdom Hearts 3 - Dive Into The Heart -Destati- Third Inception - Extended]
After Roxas's defeat and appearing back with Naminé, she and the group were confused about how Luz could wield Roxas's Keyblade. So they turn to see her still in a trance for a brief moment until she suddenly snaps back to her usual sense. She blinks, looks around for a bit, sees the group and Naminé, and only asks one question.
Luz: What...just happened?
The rest of the group and Naminé stare at Luz with deadpanned expressions.
Eda/Willow/Gus/Amity: We have no idea...
[End Kingdom Hearts 3 - Dive Into The Heart -Destati- Third Inception - Extended]
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Sora- Extended [Redux]]
Suddenly, the fragmented Inner Sora shows up in front of the group and appears ecstatic.
Inner Sora (KH1): Luz!
The fragmented Inner Sora ran towards Luz, put his hands on her shoulders, and shook her a bit in complete jubilation, which confuses Luz, but it does make her happy to see him happy.
Luz: *being shaken* Um, Sora? Can you tell me what happened?
Inner Sora (KH1): It was amazing! It was awesome! It's—it's—
Luz: *still being shaken* Tell me, dang it! Tell me!
Inner Sora (KH1): You wielded Roxas's Keyblade!
Luz looked at the fragmented Inner Sora for a bit and then looked at the others, who nodded as confirmation. Luz then looked at the fragmented Inner Sora again, still smiling in jubilation. Luz then suddenly had a flashback of her using Roxas's Keyblade against him and then widened her sparkling eyes and grew a smile on her face with a gasp.
Luz: AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH! I USED A KEYBLADE!
Luz, continuing to scream in pure joy, began bouncing around in complete excitement, much to everyone's enjoyment.
Luz: WAIT!
Luz stops bouncing and turns to the fragmented Inner Sora.
Luz: AM I KEYBLADE WIELDER NOW?!
Inner Sora (KH1): Yes! You have the power!
Luz then tackled and hugged the fragmented Inner Sora tightly in jubilation, which he returned. Seeing this, while still confused about how Luz managed to obtain the power, brought smiles to the group and Naminé.
Inner Sora (KH1): I'm so happy for you!
Luz: *nodding* Best day of my life!
The fragmented Inner Sora then looked at the group.
Inner Sora (KH1): Hey, what are you guys doing over there standing like statues? This is a celebratory moment!
The group then snapped out of their thoughts and joined in.
Eda: That was pretty awesome, kiddo!
Gus: You wielded that Keyblade likes a pro!
Willow: It was so intense!
Amity: And that finishing blow towards Roxas was genius!
Luz was filled with so much joy. She learned that she now has the power of wielding the Keyblade and appreciates the praise she's getting. Of course, she wanted this moment to last as long as possible, but then she had a realization.
Luz: Guys! Guys!
Everyone turned to her.
Luz: If I used Roxas's Keyblade, then that means I should be able to summon my own!
Everyone but Naminé: Go for it!
Luz: Here we...
Luz then extends her right hand.
Luz: Go!
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Sora- Extended [Redux]]
Luz extended her right hand again.
Luz: Keyblade, come forth!
Nothing happened, and Luz extended her right hand again.
Luz: Appear!
Still, nothing happened.
Luz: What the heck?! Why won't it appear?!
Gus: Is it possible that Luz holding that Keyblade was a fluke of sorts?
Everyone but Luz and Naminé turned to Gus and scolded him for suggesting that.
[Play Kingdom Hearts 3 - Dive Into The Heart -Destati- Third Inception - Extended]
Gus: I'm just saying, she did look like she was in a trance. Meaning...
Eda then realized where Gus was going.
Eda: She didn't activate her power on her own.
Luz: What? Was I in a trance?
The rest of the group nodded.
Luz: Aw, man. So then, how do I summon mine for real then?
Inner Sora (KH1): Maybe you need practice... But I can tell you definitely have the power.
Luz quickly turns to the fragmented Inner Sora.
Luz: You'll teach me, right?!
Inner Sora (KH1): Of course.
Luz: Good. I can't wait to learn.
Eda: Hang on, earlier memories show that Keyblades choose wielders, right? So, how was it that Luz was chosen?
The fragmented Inner Sora and the rest of the group turn towards Eda.
Eda: I mean, don't get me wrong, this is great for Luz. But I thought Keyblades needed to have a reason to choose wielders.
Inner Sora (KH1): There are many factors, but the general requirement is you need to have a strong heart.
Naminé approaches the group with a memory frame.
Naminé: I believe I have an idea.
Everyone else turns to Naminé.
Naminé: Sora, do you remember what Master Yen-Sid told you and Riku before taking the Mark of Mastery?
Inner Sora (KH1): Huh?
Naminé: He said when you achieve the title of Master, you'll have the choice to either travel to many worlds or explore freely. Or you can choose to take on an apprentice or more.
Inner Sora (KH1): Oh, I remember that. But what does that have to do with helping Luz learn to use her Keyblade?
Naminé presents the group with the memory frame she brought.
Naminé: While I was doing my best to organize the memories away from the fires, I found this particular memory. Take a look.
Everyone gathers around the memory frame, showing Sora and Luz walking down a forest path. The fragmented Inner Sora and Luz instantly recognized this memory.
Inner Sora (KH1): Luz, that's—
Luz: the day we went on that quest for that bogus staff.
Eda: Oh, right. That day.
Willow, Gus, and Amity wanted to ask questions regarding said quest but decided save that for later. The memory continues.
[End Kingdom Hearts 3 - Dive Into The Heart -Destati- Third Inception - Extended]
Luz: Hey, Sora?
Sora: Yeah?
Luz: Umm...this may sound a bit out of nowhere, but is it possible if I could...maybe check out your Keyblade?
Sora: *turns his head to Luz* Huh?
Luz: I-I mean, it's ok if you say no. I kinda-
Sora looks at his Keyblade and then back at Luz.
Sora: Oh, I get it. You wanna hold it.
Luz: *blushing a bit in embarrassment* Um...yeah. If that's ok with you.
Sora: Sure. I don't mind.
Luz excitingly turns to Sora.
Luz: Really?!
Sora: Sure. Heads up, though.
Sora extends his arm out, still holding it.
Sora: It'll disappear seconds after since I'm its chosen wielder.
Luz: *gasp while eyes sparkle* It's bound to you...so cool.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Ventus- Extended [Redux]]
Luz then reaches out for the Keyblade and grabs onto the Keyblade's shaft. With Sora holding onto the grip, and Luz holding onto the shaft, the Keyblade glowed a white light for a bit, then faded, which the two noticed.
Everyone was shocked to see that. However, based on what Naminé said about Keyblade Masters being able to pass on powers, they all understand or at the very least started to piece it all together.
At the memory, Luz then fully reaches the grip with her other hand and takes the Keyblade. She began admiring every detail of the weapon in awe while Sora stood there with a small smile. After a bit, the Keyblade disappears in a flash of light, appearing back in Sora's hand.
Luz: That was cool.
Sora: Haha, yeah. So, how'd it felt?
Luz: It's kinda hard to describe. The best way to put it is that it felt...comfortable. Like...as if it was an extension of me or something. By the way, does it always glow like that whenever two people hold onto it?
Sora then un-summons his Keyblade.
Sora: Not that I know of...that's the first time I've seen it do that.
Luz: Huh...
The memory ends as everyone looks at the fragmented Inner Sora and Luz.
Naminé: As Master Yen-Sid explained, Keyblade Masters can perform the Keyblade Inheritance Ceremony, a trial in which a person is chosen to inherit the power of the Keyblade by clutching the Keyblade in their hand and allowing it to accept them.
Luz turns to the fragmented Inner Sora.
Luz: So...you somehow passed the power onto me.
Inner Sora (KH1): Looks like it. My Keyblade must've sensed light within your heart, giving you the power. Meaning you are worthy of wielding one.
Hearing those words, Luz started to tear up with a smile. While everyone was a bit confused about how Sora could pass the power onto Luz even though he wasn't technically a Master, they didn't care at the moment. This was still a wonderful moment for them, and they decided that if Luz was worthy of wielding a Keyblade, then that's all that matters in the end. So Luz, still teary-eyed, hugged the fragmented Inner Sora, which he returned.
Luz: I don't care how it happened. I'm so thankful and happy.
Inner Sora (KH1): Yeah. And it doesn't matter if I'm technically not a Master. I'd be more than happy to teach you everything I know.
The two let go and looked at one another. The fragmented Inner Sora then placed his right hand on Luz's shoulder.
Inner Sora (KH1): Once this is all over, we'll begin you're training soon. Ok?
Luz, with a confident smile, nodded.
Luz: Yes, I'm determined to learn everything.
Luz's right hand faintly glowed with yellow light, though it went unnoticed.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Ventus- Extended [Redux]]
Naminé: Now then. I believe it's time to watch the memory of Sora battling Roxas.
Naminé motions the memory frame in front of the others. The group gathers and readies themselves. The memory starts with Sora, Donald, and Goofy walking in what seemed like a large city. Everything was dark. The night sky was shrouded by thick dark grey clouds emitting thunder and rain. Tall buildings with neon lights surrounded practically everything.
Luz: So, this must be The World That Never Was.
Naminé: Yes. This is the homeworld of Organization XIII.
Eda: Wow.
Willow: Kinda spooky.
Gus and Amity agreed with a nod.
Luz and Eda remembered a piece of Sora's story.
[Luz: This Roxas must've been really important if a member of the bad guys was willing to help you out.
Sora: He is. In fact, Roxas is my Nobody.
Luz and Eda were shocked.
Luz: Your Nobody? Like some counterpart?
Eda: How is that possible?
Sora: Earlier, I said I turned into a Heartless, right? Well, when I did and was returned to normal by Kairi. Roxas was born after.
Luz/Eda: Woah.
Sora: Anyway, Axel opened up a portal to Organization XIII's world called The World That Never Was. After we arrived there, I ran into Roxas.]
The group was taken aback by the scenery. They've seen other worlds before from Sora's memories but are still surprised how other worlds beyond theirs could differ so much. Luz and Eda, however, were a bit more intrigued by the scenery as it slightly resembles cities found in the human world. As Sora, Donald, and Goofy looked up towards the sky, and they were suddenly ambushed by Nobodies surrounding Donald and Goofy. An Organization black coat suddenly attacked Sora with a black Keyblade that everyone recognized.
Group: Roxas...
The memory continues with Sora and Roxas transported to Sora's Heart, where the two battled. As the battle went on, Sora did something that surprised everyone. Sora and Roxas rushed towards each other, and Sora swatted Roxas, the black and white Keyblades, away into the air. Sora then raised his right hand towards the air and shouted one word.
Memory Sora (KH2): Light!
The white Keyblade of Roxas's suddenly flew down towards Sora spirally, and he grabbed and held onto the Keyblade. Now with two, he enters a dual stance of his own. Essentially, this was the same action Luz performed in her tranced state. The group then turns to her to point this out.
Gus: Luz! Did you see what Sora just did?
Luz: Yeah! That was awesome!
Willow: Yeah, by the way, what he just did, is exactly what you did.
Luz: *eyes widen slowly* It was?
Amity: Yeah. Exactly just like that.
Eda: It was incredible.
Luz then turns the fragmented Inner Sora, which he confirms as true.
Luz: Wow...
They turn back to the memory as the battle continues. After a while, Sora performs a dual slash combo attack, which causes Roxas to rush towards Sora to strike him down, which Sora blocks. The two then locked themselves in a brief struggle.
Memory Sora (KH2): Wh-who are you?
Roxas: Someone from the dark.
The two jump backward to gain space.
Memory Sora (KH2): You can't be Riku?
Roxas: Riku? ...I defeated a Riku once.
Memory Sora (KH2): You what!?
Roxas: Tell me... Tell me why he picked you!
Roxas, dragging his black Keyblade across the platform while leaving spark trails, rushed towards Sora once more and performed a slashing motion, which Sora dodged. Sora then twirls his Keyblade around to do a horizontal slash, which Roxas blocks. Next, he backs up a bit to strike Sora's head, which he blocks in response. Roxas then jumps over Sora, turns around, and jumps towards to strike, which he dodges by jumping. Sora then tries to strike down Roxas from above, but Roxas blocks it, sending Sora into the air. Roxas then jumps into the air towards Sora in an attempt to strike, but through some swift movement, Sora recovers in mid-air by adjusting her body upside-down to block the attack. He lands perfectly on his feet and looks up to see Roxas floating in the air. While floating, Roxas looks down at the murals on Sora's heart. Particularly at Luz(Kairi).
Roxas: I see. That's why.
The group noticed this and gave off a small smile.
Roxas then lands in front of Sora and rushes towards him to swing both his Keyblades around, trying to strike him down, which he fails by Sora dodging rather impressively with great agility. However, the dodging stops as the two stand in place, and Roxas proceeds to swing his Keyblades around rapidly, which Sora blocks by keeping his Keyblade positioned horizontally and adjusting its angle to ensure he doesn't receive damage. Sora then collapses on her right knee, giving Roxas the chance to swat his Keyblade across the platform away from him. Sora tries to run after the swatted Keyblade, but Roxas blocks his way by plunging his black Keyblade into the ground in front of her and pointing the white black Keyblade towards Sora's face, implying he to surrender. However, Sora extends his right arm towards his Keyblade and summons it back to his hand, which surprises Roxas. Finally, gripping his Keyblade with both hands, Sora stands and immediately performs a vertical slash on Roxas. After a brief pause, Roxas drops both his Keyblades and stumbles toward Sora. After three steps, he walks past Sora, and his hood falls off, revealing his face. Sora, still cautious about what Roxas will do next, was taken aback when Roxas stood up fully and turned to Sora with a content smile and only said one thing.
Roxas: You make a good other.
A white flash suddenly engulfs the two, and Sora finds himself back with Donald and Goofy.
Memory Sora (KH2): *to himself* You make a good other.
Donald and Goofy approaches Sora.
Donald: Are you ok?
Memory Sora (KH2): What...just happened?
Goofy: Gawrsh, I dunno. You just disappeared. Then me and Donald had to fight some Nobodies.
Memory Sora (KH2): Oh. He said...he defeated Riku.
Donald: Who said that?
Memory Sora (KH2): That guy. In the black coat.
Donald: But Nobody can defeat Riku.
Memory Sora (KH2): Y...yeah, you're right.
Goofy: A black coat means Organization XIII. He musta been trying to trick ya.
Donald: Yeah, that must be why we didn't see him! You must be tired, Sora.
Goofy: C'mon, let's just find a way to get into that castle!
The three proceed to continue their quest, and the memory ends there. As the group stands in awe of what they have seen, Luz is informed that she also did what Sora did in the second half of the memory, which fills her excitement. She turns to the fragmented Inner Sora.
Luz: I'm more excited to learn from you!
Inner Sora (KH1): *chuckles* Glad to hear it.
Naminé motions another memory frame.
Naminé: Time for memory #9.
Eda: Huh. 8 memories restored so far. Now that I think about it... Naminé, how many memories were destroyed?
Naminé: 14 memories were damaged in total.
Amity winced in her mind.
Naminé: Meaning, six more to go.
Luz steps forward.
Luz: Then six more to go it is.
Luz turns around to the others.
Luz: We've come this far. We can't stop now. Right?
The rest of the group agrees as the fragmented Inner Sora smiles.
Inner Sora (KH1): Thank you, guys.
The group turns to him.
Inner Sora (KH1): I swear, when this is all over and done, I'll make it up to all of you. And before you say anything, I insist. It's the least I could do for all the hard work you've put in.
Luz: You're our friend, Sora. Of course, we will help you, just like you helped us.
The rest of the group agrees.
Inner Sora (KH1): Then, I'll leave you to it. Good luck.
The fragmented Inner Sora fades away before the group turns to Naminé.
Luz: Ok, what's next?
Naminé: This one is quite simple. In this memory, Sora, Donald, and Goofy make their way through the higher levels of Organization XIII's base of operations, The Castle That Never Was. In a particular sector known as Naught's Skyway, it is here where Sora, Donald, and Goofy fought through hordes of Nobodies to meet up with Kairi and Riku.
Luz: *gasp* So, they all meet up here? I can't wait to see this one play out.
Eda: Hmm. You're suddenly full of energy, aren't you, kid?
Luz: I guess I'm just that pumped!
Luz's right hand glowed a faint yellow light again, though it went unnoticed.
Naminé: All you have to do is fight off the Nobodies and reach the meeting place of the three.
Gus: It should be easy enough.
Eda: Well, what are we waiting for? Let's go!
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Sacred Moon- Extended]
The group entered the memory frame. Appearing on the other side, the group finds themselves on a large platform that makes up a rather large room with large walls facing either side of it. The walls seemed to be decorated with bizarre designs depicting symbols and wings. The group takes in the atmosphere as they walk towards the door in front of them.
Gus: So, this is their castle.
Luz: You know, I've had dreams like this before.
Willow: You have?
Luz: Yeah, back home, I would play games or read stories with ambiances like this. Of course, I would imagine myself at the center of those adventures. And yet, we're living those adventures, even though these are memories, and we are reenacting them.
Eda: Except that, in reality, quests like these aren't as glamorous as they seem. For Sora, the danger was around every corner, bad guys coming out of the woodwork to do anything it takes to get him out of their way, hoping his friends were safe.
Amity: To think, all this happened. And yet, we had no idea.
Luz: Well, this happened in another world and WAY before we met Sora.
Amity: That's the thing. This happened in another world. Imagine other worlds out there where there could be other people like Sora who experienced events like this as we speak. Heck, we could experience something like this in our world. But, so far, we have the Heartless, and possibly other enemies could show up eventually. It's... honestly a little bit scary to think about.
The group let that thought sink in. But, unfortunately, trouble could very well brew. Even though Sora and his friends have defeated Organization XIII, there is a possibility that other enemies from Sora's past could appear again. There are two enemies out there already, Maleficent and Pete, who Luz, Eda, Willow, and Gus met a while ago outside the Owl House after their day from the Carnival.
Luz: Well, that could be the case. But even so, I feel we can be ready for them.
Amity: How can you be sure?
Luz: Well, we have Sora with us for the time being. And I have the Keyblade's power that I need to work on. Once I get the training from Sora, I bet we'll be able to take on anyone who wants to hurt us.
Eda: Hang on, kid. Don't forget me.
Luz: Huh?
Eda: In case you've forgotten, you and Sora are under my care. So, I gotta make sure we fight off those creeps together and that you two don't get hurt.
The teens look at Eda.
Luz: Aw, Eda.
Gus: Who knew you have a soft spot?
Willow: It's rather sweet.
Eda: Ugh. Too much sentimental mush.
Amity: We're here at the door.
The rest of the group looked up to see that they had arrived at the door.
Luz: Ok. Hordes of Nobodies are waiting on the other side and throughout the pathway leading upwards. Ready?
Everyone else shouts ready, and Luz opens the door. As they walked out, they looked around to see nothing but a pitch-black sky with dark clouds around their level and other parts of the castle that seemed to go higher than they thought. The group couldn't help to be in slight awe at this sight.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Sacred Moon- Extended]
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Deep Drive- Extended]
However, the sightseeing was cut short by the sudden arrival of four Nobodies. However, they looked different than the Dusks the group had seen before.
Eda: What the? What are these?
Naminé: The three in the back are Assassin Nobodies, and the one in the front is a Samurai Nobody.
The Assassins vaguely resemble a humanoid body covered in a purple and silver bodysuit. Its segmented arms are each lined by four blades resembling spikes on the Nobody logo. Both the blades and segments alternate from silver to purple. It occasionally uses its arms as "wings" to glide through the air. It appears to have a long tongue hanging from its mouth, which is primarily silver with a purple tip decorated with a small, white Nobody symbol.
The Samurai's distinctive cylindrical head is a darker shade of grey than most of the rest of its body. This head bears six diagonal slits on the front, three on each side. Most of its body appears to be covered in a grey jumpsuit with bell sleeves and a lighter grey seam going down the front. Each sleeve has the Nobody emblem printed on them, and only the Samurai's black hands are visible. The black, featureless, pointed feet of the creature sprout out from each of the legs of the jumpsuit. There is also a dark grey belt-like pattern that wraps around its waist, though it does not seem to have a purpose. The (also grey) swords used by the Samurai usually just float very close to it, crossing behind its back or resting at either of its hips. The shape of certain parts of a Samurai's body, particularly its legs, has a vague resemblance to the design of the Nobody symbol.
Naminé: Assassins spend a lot of time on the ground, during which they are invulnerable to attack. They are only vulnerable when parried. When they attack by flailing wildly before using reflective spells. As for the Samurais, they will predict you're movements. Be sure to not telegraph and be as fast as possible to strike them down.
Luz activates an ice glyph to create an ice sword on her right hand while readying three light glyphs on her left.
Luz: Eda, let's take on the Samurai! The rest of you take on the Assassins!
Eda/Willow/Gus/Amity: Right!
The fight begins as Luz and Eda deliver the 1st attack. Luz performs a horizontal slash while using lightning magic to keep the Samurai at bay. Meanwhile, Willow summons her thorned vines to restrain all three Assassins. At the same time, Willow uses the thorns to crush them, and Amity summons and commands her abomination to crush them. After they were defeated, the group moved on towards the higher platforms but were ambushed by the second wave of Nobodies. Few more Assassins have appeared and have already started to take flight in preparation to attack. Before they can strike, Gus steps in and creates an illusion of multiple versions of each member, making it seem like the Assassins we're outnumbered, which causes them to be seemingly confused and startled. Seeing this as an opportunity, Eda summons thunderbolts from the sky, crashing them down on the ground while Willow uses her thorned vines to whip them far away. Moving on even higher, the third wave appears with more Samurais. One Samurai attempted to attack Luz, but she blocked with her ice sword. Another tries the same thing with Eda, which she also stops by creating a widespread forcefield and then piercing through the Samurai with a concentrated beam of fire magic. Gus creates an illusion construct of a Samurai to attack two others, confusing them, which gives Willow and Amity the chance to finish them off. With the third wave defeated, they moved on higher and eventually reached the final pathway leading to a door. Just as they took one step, the fourth, and presumably, the last wave of Nobodies appeared; three Assassins and three Samurais. Luz goes first by activating six light glyphs, followed by Eda creating a massive flash of light to blind and disorient them all. Wasting no time, Luz performs two vertical slashes to eliminate one Samurai. Eda concentrates two long shards of ice to pierce through a Samurai and an Assassin's chest. With her thorned vines, Willow wraps up one Assassin, slams it to the ground, and launches towards the door, destroying it. Finally, Gus creates Assassin illusions to surround the last two Nobodies to distract them, allowing Amity to crush them both simultaneously with her abomination.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Deep Drive- Extended]
With all the Nobodies defeated, the group walks towards and opens the door, causing the white light to engulf the group and have them transported back to Naminé.
Naminé: Excellent work.
Eda: Huh. Compared to the 1000 Heartless, that was pretty much a cakewalk.
Willow, Gus, and Amity stretch out her bodies.
Gus: I gotta admit, despite the Organization's castle being a bad place to be at, the scenery was kinda cool looking.
Luz: I always wonder why bad guys in stories, or this case, real-life, tend to have good taste in decor.
Amity: In any case, I think it's time we see the next memory play out, right?
Naminé: Yes. Everyone gather.
The group does so and sees the memory play out, starting with Sora, Donald, and Goofy approaching Luz(Kairi). The group noticed that Kairi was wearing a different outfit in this memory. She wears a pink strapless mini-dress made up of three zippers (two appear to be just decorative) as well as a white halter top underneath her mini-dress with a black hood. She also sports three bracelets on her left wrist, a black belt reminiscent of suspenders with a notebook-shaped bag attachment, and lilac sneakers with black laces.
Eda: Huh. Kid's got fashion taste.
Luz: Yeah.
Amity: Hm. Not bad. But...not exactly what I'd wear.
Donald: Luz(Kairi), you were great!
Luz(Kairi): *notices them* Oh? *chuckles*
Sora and Luz(Kairi) approached each other.
Memory Sora (KH2): You are different, Luz(Kairi), but I'm just glad you're here!
Luz(Kairi): You and Riku never came home, so I came looking for you.
Sora looks down and away with guilt.
Memory Sora (KH2): I'm sorry.
Suddenly, Luz(Kairi) rushed over to hug Sora tightly for a whole minute, which surprised him a bit.
Luz(Kairi): This is real...
Sora, with a soft smile, returned the hug, and the two stayed that way for a while. Then, finally, Donald folds his arms and nods with a smirk while Goofy covers his mouth in agreement.
The group, aside from Willow, couldn't help but smile seeing such a wonderful reunion before them. Eda and Luz looked at each other with smirks.
Eda/Luz: *whispering* Ooooooh~. Someone's in loooove~.
Luz and Eda snickered until she and Luz heard a gasp from Amity, and they both turned to her.
Luz: What is it?
Amity: *points towards the memory frame* Look!
They do so and can't believe who they are seeing.
Luz/Eda: Ansem!
It was indeed Ansem, who was wearing an Organization XIII coat.
Luz: What's he doing there?!
Eda: I thought he was gone!
Naminé: You'll have to keep watching to get that answer. It's quite a surprise.
The group continues watching to see Ansem opening up a Corridor of Darkness to walk through until Sora calls out to him.
Memory Sora (KH2): Wait, Ansem! I mean, Xehanort's Heartless...
Ansem stops and turns his head back to look at Sora.
Memory Sora (KH2): I never thought for a second that I'd ever see YOU again.
Sora slightly clenches his fists.
Memory Sora (KH2): Just thinking about all the things you did makes me really mad. But...
Sora then relaxes.
Memory Sora (KH2): But you saved Luz(Kairi), right? I have to be grateful for that... Thanks.
Ansem then proceeds to walk towards the Corridor of Darkness but is stopped by Luz(Kairi) grabbing his right arm.
Luz(Kairi): Riku, don't go!
Hearing that surprised the group.
Group: Riku?!
Naminé: Keep watching.
Donald: Huh?!
Goofy: Huh?
Memory Sora (KH2): Luz(Kairi), what did you just say?
Luz(Kairi): Riku.
Ansem: I'm no one—just a castaway from the darkness.
Luz(Kairi): Sora, come here. Say something to him.
Sora, a little skeptical, approaches the two.
Luz(Kairi): Here. You'll understand.
Luz(Kairi) takes both Sora and Ansem's hands and places them together with her hands holding them both.
Luz(Kairi): Close your eyes.
Sora looks up at Ansem and then lowers his to close his eyes, while Ansem looks back at Sora with no emotion on his face.
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Friends In My Heart- Extended]
The group saw everything fading to black and couldn't believe what they were seeing. Riku, wearing the Organization XIII coat, was standing in front of Sora. Sora, truly seeing him in his heart, opened his eyes to see Ansem looking at him with a soft smile. With this confirmed, Sora starts to tear up.
Memory Sora (KH2): Riku... It's Riku. Riku's here...
Sora then falls to his knees while still holding Riku's hand.
Memory Sora (KH2): I looked for you!
Tears start to fall from Sora's eyes as he tries to stop himself from crying.
Riku(Ansem): Come on, Sora. You've got to pull it together.
Memory Sora (KH2): I looked everywhere for you!
Seeing Sora like this got in the feels for the group. They couldn't help but smile to see Sora so filled with joy with reuniting with his friends. It was then Luz, and Eda remembered another piece of Sora's story.
[Sora: Anyway, after making our way to the Organization stronghold, I eventually reunited Kairi and Riku.
Luz: *gasp* I bet it was a happy reunion there.
Sora: Yeah, I was so happy to see them there.]
They continued watching the memory.
Riku(Ansem): I didn't want you to find me.
Memory Sora (KH2): ?!
The group became confused as to why Riku would say that, but as Naminé said, they had to keep watching.
Goofy: But it was him that was helpin' us, wasn't it?
Donald: Huh?
Goofy: Those clues we kept finding. That musta been Riku.
Riku(Ansem): I was starting to worry you guys weren't ever gonna catch on. Sora never did pick the brightest friends.
Donald: What do you mean by that!?
Memory Sora (KH2): Why didn't you let me know you were ok?
Riku(Ansem): I told you. I didn't want to be found. Not like this...I couldn't. I fought with Ansem. With... Xehanort's Heartless—when it invaded my heart, and I won. But to use the power of darkness, I had to become Ansem myself.
The group couldn't believe what they heard. And while they had gotten that answer, more questions began brewing in their minds, but they knew they had to keep watching.
Luz(Kairi): Does that mean...you can't change back?
Riku(Ansem): This battle isn't over. And until it is, I still need the power of darkness.
Memory Sora (KH2): Then...let's finish it. You're still Riku, no matter what!
Donald and Goofy walked toward the trio and nodded in agreement to Sora's words, followed by Kairi's smile and nod. Sora then turns to Donald and Goofy.
Memory Sora (KH2): So, how about it: Think we can handle one last rumble together? The King's waiting!
Donald: Yeah! Let's get going!
The memory ends there. The group, aside from Amity, as she stepped back, looked at each other, teary-eyed.
Luz: That was such a beautiful reunion.
Eda: Gotta admit, that got me in the feels.
Gus approached Luz and Willow.
Gus: *to Luz and Willow* It makes me glad I have you, Willow, and Sora as friends.
Willow: *to Luz and Gus* Me too.
Luz: Aw, you guys.
The three group-hugged.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMix -Friends In My Heart- Extended]
Amity, standing in her own space away, felt down. She still feels guilt about her actions almost destroying that memory but also feels sad seeing the bond between Luz, Willow, and Gus. She thought that she had no right to join in with them after how she treated them in the past, despite somewhat being on friendly terms with Luz and barely starting to make things right with Willow. While not knowing Gus very well, she imagines him not seeing her as anyone he'd want to be around. Wishing that she had stood up to her mom all those years ago, wishing that she never said or did those bad things to Willow, wishing that she never let Boscha and her friends mess with her, wishing she was friendlier to Luz, wishing that she never antagonized Sora and damaging his memories, along with Willow's, wishing that she could just take everything back. All these thoughts were getting to her, several emotions running high simultaneously. She began to feel her heart race, her body shaking, clenching her stomach, gritting her teeth, tears welling up, almost looking like she wanted to break down. Luz, Willow, Gus, and Eda noticed this and approached Amity in a hurry.
Luz: Amity?!
Willow/Gus: Amity!
Eda: Hey!
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Missing You- Extended]
It was at that moment that everyone became shocked. Amity broke down to her knees and began sobbing.
Luz: Amity?! What's wrong?!
Amity: I'M SORRY!
Everyone stopped in their tracks, right in front of Amity.
Luz: Amity, what are you talking about?!
Amity: *sobbing* I'M SORRY FOR EVERYTHING! FOR EVERYTHING I'VE DONE! EVERYTHING I RUINED AND ALMOST RUINED! EVERY BAD THING THAT HAPPENED TO WILLOW!
[Cut to Willow looking shocked]
Amity: *sobbing* I KICKED HER OUT OF MY BIRTHDAY PARTY BECAUSE MY MOM THREATENED HER ENROLLMENT TO HEXSIDE WHEN I SHOULD'VE STOOD UP TO HER! ALLOWED BOSCHA AND HER GANG TO HURT HER WHEN I SHOULD'VE BEEN! BELITTLING HER WHEN I SHOULD'VE BEEN ENCOURAGING HER! BEING HER BULLY WHEN I SHOULD'VE BEEN HER FRIEND! AND NOT JUST HER. I'VE HURT LUZ AS WELL!
[Cut to Luz welling up in tears]
Amity: *sobbing* I INSULTED YOU WHENEVER YOU SHOWED ENTHUSIASM TO TRAINING IN MAGIC WHEN I SHOULD'VE ENCOURAGED YOU, MAYBE EVEN HELPED YOU! PUSHING YOU AWAY EVERY TIME YOU TRY TO EXTEND YOUR HAND TO ME, TRULY WANTING TO BE MY FRIEND! AND NEARLY GETTING YOU KILLED ALL BECAUSE I COULDN'T LET GO OF MY EGO AND BEING OBSESSED OVER SOME STUPID BADGE THAT LITERALLY MEANT NOTHING! AND THEN THERE'S SORA!
[Cut to everyone, including Naminé]
Amity: *sobbing* ANTAGONIZED HIM WHEN HE DID NOTHING TO PROVOKE ME! INSULTED HIS STRENGTH!
[Cut to Amity sobbing even louder]
Amity: *sobbing* AND ACCIDENTALLY BURNING HIS MEMORIES AND DESTROYING ALMOST EVERY HAPPY MOMENT IN HIS LIFE BECAUSE I WANTED TO PRACTICE THAT FIRE SPELL HE DID BACK AT THE COVENTION IN HOPES GAINING HIS APPROVAL AND HOPE TO HAVE HIM HELP ME PRACTICE! IF I HADN'T BEEN RECKLESS, THEN THIS NEVER WOULD'VE HAPPENED... SORA KNOWS IT WAS MY FAULT BUT HADN'T SAID ANYTHING! ALL OF THESE THINGS HAPPENED BECAUSE OF ME, BECAUSE OF MY STUPIDITY! I'M SO SORRY! I WISH I COULD TAKE EVERYTHING BAAAAACK!
Amity continued to sob and coughed while taking breaths of air. Luz, Eda, Willow, Gus, and Naminé couldn't say anything. They just stood there in shock. Finally, with tears in her eyes, Luz ran towards Amity, but someone already beat her to it. Everyone was surprised to see it was the fragmented Inner Sora. He was hugging Amity tightly with tears falling from his eyes. Amity, with a cough, looked up to see the fragmented Inner Sora.
Amity: *tearing* Sora...?
Inner Sora (KH1): *tearing* I should be the one apologizing right now. I thought it would be better if you and I talked about this after the memories were fixed. I should've known better about you needing to talk to me about all this sooner rather than later. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry.
Amity: Sora...
The fragmented Inner Sora helped Amity to her feet, and the two looked at each in, their eyes still filled with tears. Then, the fragmented Inner Sora took her hands and gently held them.
Inner Sora (KH1): Amity, I don't blame, nor do I hate you for what happened to my memories.
Amity: What?! How can you not? I thought you'd be furious with me!
Inner Sora (KH1): Sure, what you did was reckless. But still, it was a complete accident.
Amity was still shocked and confused.
Inner Sora (KH1): You've seen my memories, right? You're not the first friend to have made mistakes.
Amity: ...
Inner Sora (KH1): Riku. When we got separated, he was desperate to find Kairi and me. But, Maleficent got to him first and used darkness to manipulate him. Because of that, he and I were on opposing sides while both of us were trying to save Kairi, and Ansem possessed him and used his body in hopes of controlling Kingdom Hearts with darkness. After all that, he did his to make up for it, eventually conquering the lingering darkness that shrouded his heart. Axel. He was with Organization XIII, and he kidnapped Kairi as a means of leverage to force me into destroying more Heartless to release more Hearts, as well as hoping to lure me into the darkness. But in the end, he sacrificed himself to grant me a passage to Organization XIII's castle, saved Queen Minnie from Maleficent and Pete, and risked his life to save not only me from Xehanort but also his friends. Roxas. Despite being my former Nobody, he attacked me out of pure anger. He believed he was nothing more than a shadow. Eventually, he and I talked to each other and worked things out. There are others out there who I met who had made mistakes and may have started as enemies, but in the end, they made up for it. With you, I can see it in your heart and how much you genuinely regret your past actions.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Missing You- Extended]
Amity stayed silent.
[Play Kingdom Hearts 1.5 HD ReMix -Treasured Memories- Extended]
Inner Sora (KH1): Amity... I've learned that, sometimes, life's too short to hold everlasting grudges. I believe in second chances. I believe in redemption. But mostly, I believe in my friends.
Amity: You...can't be saying—
Inner Sora (KH1): Yes. I forgive you, Amity.
Sora then gives off his friendly grin.
Amity's eyes slowly widened in shock. She couldn't believe that Sora would forgive her, at least not like that or so soon. That was when Luz ran up to Amity in tears, hugging her.
Luz: Amity!
Amity: Luz?
Luz: I forgive you too! I know we got off on the wrong foot at first, and things went a little sour after that, but I don't regret trying to make peace and be friends with you. Somewhere inside me, I knew there was a sweet spot in your heart.
Amity: Luz...
Gus then approaches Amity.
Gus: Uh... To be honest, aside from what I've seen you do and act as far as I knew, I don't know you very well. But, if Sora and Luz are ok with you, then I would like to get to know you too. Who knows, maybe there's some hobbies or interests we both like.
Amity: Augustus...
Gus: Please, call me Gus.
Amity: ...Gus...
Lastly, Willow approached Amity. The two stared at each other, silent for a moment, until Willow spoke.
Willow: Amity...
Amity: ...
Willow: If I'm speaking honestly... Like Sora said to Ansem. I'm still upset about all the things you did.
Amity looks down.
Willow: But... I remember you saving me from that last Heartless back at the Hollow Bastion memory... I really am thankful for that. And...I believe that you're truly regretful of everything. I know I said that you fixing my memories was a start. But...
Willow steps closer to Amity, takes her hands, and gently holds them, which makes Amity look up slowly to look into Willow's eyes.
Willow: I'm willing to give you a chance.
Amity: Willow...
Willow: Looking back at Sora's memory when he closed that door and was separated from Riku, along with everything they've been through so far... It made me think that maybe Sora was right. Sometimes life's too short to hold an everlasting grudge. And, of course, our history is nothing like this. *huffs* Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying I completely forgive you yet. But I really do want us to be friends again. And I hope that if you're really honest with you're words, you'll show me with your actions.
Amity: *nods* Yes. I promise you I will.
Willow: *nods*
Willow and Amity still held hands for a bit while Luz hugged around Amity from her left while Gus smiled at Amity with a nod, and the fragmented Inner Sora placed his hand on Amity's right shoulder in a gentle manner. Then, the fragmented Inner Sora motions Luz and Willow to back away for a bit, giving him room.
Inner Sora (KH1): Amity, listen.
Amity looks at the fragmented Inner Sora.
Inner Sora (KH1): I do have one thing I want you to remember.
Amity: Yes?
Inner Sora (KH1): Everyone feels down sometimes. It's part of life. But I want you to know that you don't need to face those feelings alone. If you ever need to come to me or any of us in the future, don't hesitate to do so.
The fragmented Inner Sora steps closer and gives Amity a hug, which widens Amity's eyes slowly, but feeling the gentle aura from him, she returns the hug.
Inner Sora (KH1): We're friends, Amity. And if a friend needs me to be there, I'll be there. Ok?
Amity: Ok. And I'll do the same when they need someone.
Inner Sora (KH1): Good.
The two let go and looked at each other.
Inner Sora (KH1): And one last thing.
Amity: Hm?
Inner Sora (KH1): Now, no frowning. No sad face. Ok?
Amity: Uh?
Inner Sora (KH1): Our friendSHIP runs on happy faces. Like this.
The fragmented Inner Sora pulls off a goofy grin, forming a smile with his fingers.
(NOTE: Pretty much the same way Nana Shimura from My Hero Academia did.)
Amity snorted, chuckling, then laughed a bit. Finally, the fragmented Inner Sora turns around and shows the rest of the group his goofy grin.
Inner Sora (KH1): See? Like this.
They snorted and proceeded to laugh as well. Finally, the fragmented Inner Sora stops and looks at Amity.
Inner Sora (KH1): Oh, bonus last thing.
Amity: *chuckles* What would that be?
Inner Sora (KH1): Be strong. *looks at everyone* Everyone.
The fragmented Inner Sora began to fade as everyone nodded in agreement.
Inner Sora (KH1): See you guys soon, and good luck.
The fragmented Inner Sora faded away entirely as everyone took a deep and exhaled.
Amity then uses her arms to wipe away any remnants of her tears. Luz then approaches her.
Luz: Are you ok?
Amity: Yes. It felt so good to talk to you guys about this.
Amity turns to face the others them a sad smile, trying to look as strong as possible.
Amity: Now then, let's not keep Sora waiting. *fist-pumped* Let's save his memories and him!
The rest of the group nodded in agreement.
Luz/Willow/Gus: Yeah!
Naminé notices Eda.
Naminé: Are you alright?
Eda: Yeah. What we saw just now is why I like Sora. No matter what, he always seems to find a way to lift people's spirits. *turns to Naminé* I can't wait to see him on the other side again.
Naminé: Yeah, I'm glad he made wonderful friends in you all.
Eda: ...Yeah. *turns to the teens* Hey, kids! Time to fix more memories!
Teens: Coming!
They all ran towards Eda.
Naminé motions a memory frame towards the group.
Naminé: This is the final memory of the second set. Here... you must defeat Xemnas.
Eda: The 2nd big bad himself, huh?
Luz, Willow, Gus, and Amity stand next to each other, with looks of determination, ready to fight Xemnas.
Luz: We've got this. *turns to the others* With all of us together, we'll take down Xemnas and fix the last memories. Sora did say he wanted all of us to hang out, so let's not keep him waiting.
The teens nod.
Naminé: I'll explain how to defeat Xemnas once you enter the memory frame. Are you ready?
Group: Yes!
Naminé: Then please, proceed.
Luz enters first, followed by Willow, then Gus. Amity was about to enter but was stopped by Eda, who she looked at with slight confusion.
Eda: Hey.
Amity: ?
Eda: Same thing what Sora said. If you ever need someone, you can come to me too. 'Kay?
Amity: ...*nods* Yes. Thank you.
Eda: No prob. Now, let's go kick Xemnas's hide.
Amity: *confident smile* Yeah!
The last two entered the memory frame. Naminé smiled with her eyes closed.
Naminé: Amity... You believe there is a light shining bright in her heart...
The fragmented Inner Sora voice echoes within Naminé's mind.
Inner Sora (KH1): Yes. I noticed that the darkness in her heart was getting bigger, but the light immediately shone brighter. I believe Amity will come out of this strong and will work hard to be the person she wants to be. And I looked forward to that.
Naminé: You always seem to pick your friends quite well.
Inner Sora (KH1): *chuckles* Now then, I think it's time you lend them a hand on beating Xemnas.
Naminé: Yes.
[End Kingdom Hearts 1.5 HD ReMix -Treasured Memories- Extended]
Naminé: *opens her eyes and turns to the memory frame* Listen. Here is the strategy to defeat Xemnas.
