CHAPTER 15.11: Sora's Chain Of Memories Part 11
With Willow and Gus on the right, Luz and Amity on the left, and the second fragmented Inner Sora in the middle, they felt nothing but happiness in their group hug. Afterward, they all let go.
Inner Sora (KH2): Again. Thank you, guys.
Luz: Of course...
Luz looks at the second fragmented Inner Sora with piqued interest.
Luz: Oh, I just remembered something.
Inner Sora (KH2): What's up?
Luz: I bet it was so nice to have a reunion with the locals on your island. I bet you're adored by everyone there.
Inner Sora (KH2): *chuckles* I don't know about that. But it was nice seeing the people, especially my other friends there. Tidus, Wakka, and Selphie.
Luz: *gasp* And your parents! I bet they were so happy to see you again!
Inner Sora (KH2): ...!
Naminé: *gasp* !
Suddenly, dreaded silence filled the space. Eda, Willow, Gus, and Amity noticed the second fragmented Inner Sora's reaction to Luz's words. It looked as though it was a mix of sadness and shock. Eventually, Luz saw this.
Luz: Uhh...Sora? Are you ok?
Inner Sora (KH2): *shakes his head* Ummm... Luz...
Luz: *tilts head* ?
Inner Sora (KH2): *breathes in, then out* There was...no reunion with my parents.
The space suddenly filled with even more dread.
Luz: W-wh-what do you mean? You saw each other, right?
The second fragmented Inner Sora turned around to not look at the group.
Inner Sora (KH2): Naminé.
Naminé: !
Inner Sora (KH2): Show them.
Naminé: ...Very well.
Naminé motions a memory frame over, and it stops in place in front of the group.
Naminé: ...This memory...takes place the same day of Sora and Riku's return to their home.
The group felt their heart racing, really not liking the feeling of dread.
The memory starts with everyone breaking their embrace with one another.
Memory Sora (KH2): Well, guys. Another adventure completed, and everyone's back together again.
Everyone there nodded in agreement.
Memory Sora (KH2): Agh.
Riku: What is it?
Memory Sora (KH2): I just remembered. I left my room a total mess before all of this started. I'm not looking forward to cleaning it all up.
Riku: Tch. You're hopeless.
Memory Sora (KH2): Oh, haha. I bet your room's just as messy. Aaand I bet our parents were worried about us this whole time. We better see them now.
Riku: Yeah. Oh boy. I can imagine the scolding I'll be getting.
Suddenly, Luz's(Kairi) face turns to sadness as she watches the boys talk about their families. She knew she had to tell them.
Luz(Kairi): Umm... guys?
The boys turned to her.
Luz(Kairi): There's something you should know...about our parents.
Riku: Huh?
Memory Sora (KH2): What is it?
After they all made their way to the main island, they walked past the town and arrived at a place the group had never thought of nor wanted to see. They all slowly gasped in horror, and only Luz spoke.
Luz: *whispering* ...No way...
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Missing You- Extended]
They see a gravesite located on the very back of the main island. Eventually, they see Kairi leading Sora and Riku to six headstones lined up next to each other. The two see their parents' names and fall to their knees, trying their hardest not to cry. That is where the memory ends. The group simply couldn't believe it. So many questions filled their minds. How did this happen? Why did this happen? How and why could Sora and his friends have to lose so much with everything they've gone through? These thoughts stopped when the fragmented Inner Sora spoke.
Inner Sora (KH2): According to Kairi and the folks around town, our parents didn't survive the Heartless attack. It happened before I tried to fight the Darkside.
The group stood there in silence.
Inner Sora (KH2) The day after, I got a letter from the King wanting me and Riku to take the Mark of Mastery Exam. So, of course, I wrote back everything that happened. And so, Master Yen-Sid put the exam on hold to give Riku and me all the time we needed to grieve.
The group became disheartened. They thought this was one of the cruelest and most unfair things ever happening to Sora and his friends. They all felt that they didn't deserve this. He and his friends didn't deserve any of the pain and heartache they went through.
Eda: And...you had no other family? Like aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, anyone?
Inner Sora (KH2): ...No. None at all.
The group lowered their heads. Completely saddened by the story. Unlike Sora, they have families, so they can't relate to Sora. All they could do was console him. But before they could do it, Luz slowly approached Sora.
Luz: S...Sora...
The second fragmented Inner Sora didn't move.
Luz: I'm...so sorry for your loss.
Inner Sora (KH2): ...
Luz: I'm sure you've heard this before, but... I understand what you're going through.
The others looked at Luz suddenly as Sora lifted his head slightly. Luz clenches her fists and then relaxes them.
Luz: When I was little... I lost my dad.
The others were in shock to hear that. Sora was as well as he slowly lifted his head and turned around to look at Luz.
Luz: He was a loving and caring person. He always brought my mom and me flowers on our birthdays, so after he passed away, we started picking flowers for each other. And then we'd visit his grave, and my mom and I would spend the day together.
Everyone is seeing Luz trying her best not to break down. Sora slowly approaches Luz.
Inner Sora (KH2): ...He sounds like a great man.
Luz: The best I've ever known. Even though it happened a long time ago and doesn't affect me as much as it did back then, it still hurts sometimes. How the pain never really goes away. Wishing he was still here.
Inner Sora (KH2): But we also know...that they'd want us to keep moving forward. And live life the best way possible.
Luz: Exactly. With as much joy and smiles...we can.
Inner Sora (KH2): Which is why I meant what I said about you guys and my friends.
Luz: About us being your sanctuary...
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Missing You- Extended]
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Ventus- Extended [Redux]]
Inner Sora (KH2): *nods* I remember... Something my mom told me once... when I was 10. She told me: "People may come and go throughout your life. But if you keep them in your hearts, they'll live on within them and be part of you. And when there are moments where you don't feel like you're not strong enough, they'll make up the difference." I keep those words in my mind whenever I feel sorrowful or when I'm with my friends. It reminds me to enjoy and cherish my time with them.
Luz: I like that. I really do.
The second fragmented Inner Sora and Luz looked at one another for a bit before hugging. The others stood there. They couldn't believe what they had heard. Not one, but two friends they have, who they saw as kind, compassionate, and usually full of energy, could suffer the kind of pain they believe they didn't deserve to experience at such a young age. After a while, the other teens approached to console the two humans, which they accepted. Meanwhile, Eda and Naminé stood from behind.
Eda: ...Dang.
Naminé: Yes. Saddening to hear. But...it is as he said earlier; people may come and go, but as long you cherish them and keep them in your heart, they'll live on within you.
Eda: *nods* Mm. They may sometimes cry, lose, and be in pain, but they never let that keep them down forever. They always get back up.
Naminé: Exactly.
Eda: *thinking* ...Maybe I should start thinking about my...
Eda suddenly sees an older couple in her mind but quickly shakes her head.
Eda: *thinking* No. Can't think about them right now. Right now, Sora needs us. ...Maybe I should consider it...
Eda then approaches the teens as they let go of one another.
Eda: Sora.
They all turned to Eda.
Eda: ...I remember when you first told Luz and me your story... I thought it was a lot for you to go through...I thought the worst was when you said this Xehanort guy tried to take out Kairi. Only to find out you lost a lot more than that...
The teens continued their focus on Eda.
Eda: And yet, you kept moving forward with a smile. Sometimes, I wonder how you do it, how you are so strong to keep moving forward, knowing and already experiencing those kinds of pain that kids like you shouldn't go through. But despite all that pain, you still have enough good in your heart to deeply care about other people and strive to help those in trouble. And all of that stems from words by your mom. No doubt she was a smart one.
Inner Sora (KH2): *nods with a smile* She was.
Eda approaches Sora.
Eda: I don't know her...but seeing the kind of person you are...I have no doubt she'd be proud of you if she could see how much you've grown and done.
Then, Eda does something that shocks everyone, especially Luz. Eda slowly places her right hand on Sora's head, her left hand on his right shoulder, and brings him close to her for a hug of her own.
Eda: Heck, I know I am.
Inner Sora (KH2): ...Eda...
The second fragmented Inner Sora's eyes widened, and tears started to form. He has hugged others and received hugs before. But, this was a surprise. Not only was this the first time Eda had hugged him, but the hug also had a familiar feeling he hadn't felt in a long time, maternal. Eda then turns to Luz and then extends out her left arm.
Eda: Don't think I forgot about you, Luz.
Luz's eyes started to form tears as she slowly approached the two. Eda repeats the same action as she did with Sora for Luz by bringing her in for a hug.
Eda: I'm proud of you both. For being strong enough to keep moving forward despite what you've lost. You're brave kids, and I know you two are strong on your own. But I want you two to know something.
The humans look up at her.
Eda: As long as you're under my watch, I'll be there if you need me. After all, us weirdos have to stick together.
The humans chuckled a bit at that.
Inner Sora (KH2): Since when was I a weirdo?
Eda: You've always been.
Luz: Now and Forever.
They both chuckled again as they returned the hug. Eda looked down at the two with a soft smile.
Eda: *thinking* Sheesh, Owl Lady. When did you become so sentimental? Oh, right. Meeting these two... And you know what? I'm glad I did.
The others' hearts warmed as they saw the loving embrace of Sora, Luz, and Eda.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Ventus- Extended [Redux]]
After a bit, the three let go.
Eda: Time to fix the rest of the memories.
The teens nodded as they turned to Naminé.
Eda: Alright, Naminé. What's next?
Naminé motions a memory frame forward to the group. Upon closer look, the group sees a rather large, beautifully constructed room. The room's color scheme consists of white and gold. Large windows surround, allowing sunlight. Large light blue columns encased with gold are structured on opposite ends of the room, which leads to staircases. At the very end of the room lies three large chairs.
Luz: Wow, this place looks like a castle's throne room.
Eda: Whaddya suppose kind of royalty lives here?
Naminé: Not royalty, but just as important. The room you see is the Throne Room of a world known as the Land of Departure. It is here where Keyblade wielders from long ago made their home.
The group was in awe of this revelation.
Naminé: It is here where Sora, Donald, and Goofy accompanied a long-lost Keyblade wielder named Aqua to rescue another Keyblade wielder who also was lost, named Ventus.
The group became intrigued. However, Luz and Eda were surprised.
Luz/Eda: Aqua? Ventus?
Naminé: Yes. It is here where they also encounter another Keyblade wielder. However, this one was evil, a masked boy born from darkness, whose name was...Vanitas.
Eda's eyes widened at the mention of Vanitas, though it went unnoticed. Willow, Gus, and Amity shuddered at the revelation while Luz remembered that piece from Sora's story. But before she could reminisce, Eda approached Naminé.
Eda: Naminé...did you just say...Vanitas?
Naminé: Yes. Why?
Eda: Vanitas... That name sounds familiar...
Luz: Sora told us about it.
Eda: Yeah, but...
Eda began growing nervous just by thinking about the name.
Luz: Eda, are you ok?
Eda looks Naminé in the eyes sternly.
Eda: Naminé, can you show me an image of Vanitas?
Naminé does so by creating a magic projection of Vanitas. To the group, Vanitas is seen wearing a black and red organic-looking bodysuit and a silver helmet covered with dark glass, hiding his face from view. He is also somewhat taller than the other teens and has a more muscular build.
Luz: Woah...spooky.
Amity: He definitely has the villainous vibe.
Willow and Gus shuddered in agreement.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep - The Silent Forest - Extended]
Eda stood there, staring at the projection. She stared at the glass in front of the helmet intensely as her heart began to beat faster. Then, her eyes widened as she suddenly started having flashing images of Vanitas and three other Keyblade wielders running through her mind until she snapped out of it.
Eda: Terra! Aqua! Ven!
Inner Sora (KH2): Eda, what's wrong?
Eda: Those four! I remember! Terra, Aqua, Ven, Vanitas! I met them! Ten years ago!
The teens were shocked.
Inner Sora (KH2): You did?! How?
Eda: I'm...starting to remember...I was running away from the Emperor's guards... I ran into the three on a small island far away from the mainland...they saved me from them and the...He showed up... out of nowhere... The four of us teamed up to fight off Vanitas...we beat him...and then...they left...I tried to follow them to return the favor by going after Vanitas...but they wouldn't let me.
Inner Sora (KH2): No way...
Eda: Wait a sec...Naminé. Is Vanitas connected to this memory?
Naminé: Yes. He must be defeated to repair this memory.
Luz: Ok, then! Let's beat this creep!
Eda: NO!
Everyone looked at her with surprise.
Luz: Eda?
Eda: No. You kids stay here. This angsty psycho is way too dangerous for you kids to handle. I'LL deal with him. ALONE.
Luz: What?! Eda, no! We worked together to fix the previous memories. So we gotta keep going with that.
Eda turns to Luz and places both her hands on her shoulders, gripping tightly while looking her dead in the eyes with a glare.
Eda: Kid...listen to me. Vanitas is a merciless maniac, willing to injure you beyond repair or worse...
Luz, Willow, Gus, and Amity widened their eyes.
Eda: He's way too strong, and I'm not fast to cover you all if we all go there. I NEED to deal with this one. ALONE. So, ALL of you, stay here. DO NOT go in with me. Understand?
Luz: ...I...
Inner Sora (KH2): She's right.
Everyone turns their attention to Sora.
Inner Sora (KH2): He's way too dangerous for you all. Let Eda handle this.
Luz: *turns back to Eda* ok... I'll stay here.
Eda: Good. Trust me, kid. This is for your safety.
Eda stands back up.
Eda: Sora, mind keeping them company?
Inner Sora (KH2): Gladly. While Eda handles Vanitas, we can watch other memories.
Luz and the rest of the teens cheered to that idea.
Eda: Ok. Naminé, I'm going in. Also, no need for guides. I know how to handle him.
Naminé: Very well. Good luck, Eda.
Eda: Thanks. *turns to the teens* Don't worry. I'll be back soon.
The teens nod as Eda ventures forth in the memory frame.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep - The Silent Forest - Extended]
She appears in front of the three chairs where Vanitas stands.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep Music - Vanitas Battle Theme [Extended]]
Eda, glaring at her opponent, slowly walks toward him.
Eda: You...
Vanitas stands there, unresponsive.
Eda: Ten years ago...you gave me, Terra, Aqua, and Ven a REALLY hard time.
Eda clenches her fists tightly.
Eda: If it hadn't been for Ven...King wouldn't be here right now... So even though you're a memory, and Sora and the others had gotten rid of the real you at that war they were in...I'm glad to have this chance to give some kind of payback...
Eda cracks both her knuckles while giving off a sinister smirk.
Eda: And I'm gonna enjoy it.
Eda charges up light magic in both her hands while Vanitas summons his Void Gear Keyblade and enters his battle stance. Eda looks closer at his Keyblade, seeing the teeth and head colored black with a red outline and possessing a round, cog-like shape. The handle is red, and the guard has the same coloration and cog-like shape as the teeth. The shaft is predominantly colored in shades of grey and sports a copper-colored gear in the center, with two intersecting black chains wrapped around it. Two more chains are wrapped around the base of the shaft in a similar fashion. It also has two blue reptilian eyes, one located in the head of the blade and one embedded in the hilt. Its Keychain comprises three small copper gears and ends in a charm resembling two halves of a gear arranged in an S-shape. Again, Eda had flashes of memories of her time first meeting Vanitas and fighting him.
Eda: *thinking* Yeah, just like that night at that island... *thinks of King* Thank titan he survived that night...
After a brief stare-down, Vanitas rushed towards Eda, ready to strike her with his Keyblade. Eda quickly shot three spheres of light at Vanitas, which he knocks away. Just as he got close enough to attack Eda, she immediately caught Vanitas off guard, blocking his Keyblade by using a materialization spell to forge arm gauntlets from the golden metal around the walls.
Eda: Ha! You weren't expecting that, huh?!
Eda then uses an enhancement spell to power up her physical strength to push Vanitas back and quickly leaps out of the way before he attempts to slice at her. Vanitas then points his Keyblade at Eda and shoots out three Dark Firaga balls, which she deflects with relative ease.
Eda: Man, he was selling the brooding, angsty vibe.
Vanitas lunges straight at Eda once more, only for her to dodge the attack thanks to swift acrobatics. He then unleashes Dark Thundaga, hoping to strike Eda by surprise. But to HIS surprise, Eda puts up a barrier around her to block the bolts. Vanitas seemed to have been frustrated with Eda's counters. Seeing this, Eda taunts him.
Eda: What's wrong? Mad?
Vanitas lunges at Eda once again with his Keyblade directly pointed at her. But Eda, with her gauntlets, delivered a swift left hook and an uppercut, sending him backward. But what shocked Eda was that Vanitas was suspended in midair, slowly fading away. Eda's instincts immediately kicked in as she swiftly turned and folded her arms into an x-shaped to block Vanitas from a behind warp attack.
Eda: *thinking* THAT attack was a major headache back then.
With all her strength, Eda pushes Vanitas backward, causing him to stumble a bit. This allows Eda to charge up fire magic on both hands, raise her arms above her head into an x-shaped formation, and launch an x-shaped fire blast.
Eda: Spicy toss!
The fire spell hit Vanitas as he didn't react fast enough to block it. Not wanting to let him have a chance to recover, Eda creates an ice column to jab him straight in his stomach, launching him straight onto a wall. Vanitas, stuck in the wall, struggled for a bit until finally getting unstuck. After that, he simply stands there, motionless.
Eda: What's wrong? Worried about not being big and bad right now?
Clenching his left fist tightly, Vanitas swiftly launches five Dark Firaga balls and then inconspicuously dives underground. Eda puts up a barrier to block the blazing projectiles. After which, Eda notices Vanitas is gone.
Eda: Where the heck-!?
Before Eda could react, Vanitas leaped out and swung his Keyblade, nailing Eda right from under her chin.
Eda: AARGH!
While in the air, Vanitas scatters three Dark Firaga balls toward Eda. Recovering fast, Eda looks up and creates a massive wind spell to reflect the incoming attack right back at him. To avoid the returning attack, Vanitas quickly lands back onto the ground far enough from Eda to gain space. Eda rubs her chin carefully.
Eda: Ragh! Darn it, that hurt. Can't believe I forgot about THAT attack.
After regaining her composure, Eda prepares herself in a stance. Vanitas once again lunges at Eda, hoping to strike her again. That was when Eda had an idea. Remembering what Sora did during his placement exam at Hexside, she tries that idea, but bigger. Creating a large fireball on her right hand and a large water ball on her left, she slammed the two together to create a massive cloud of steam to blind Vanitas. Vanitas, right in the center, looked around to find Eda in a slightly panicked manner. That was when he was hit in the back of his head. He turned around to source, only to find no one. A few seconds later, he was hit in the back of his head, and of course, he turned around to see. This kept repeating for a good while, much to Eda's enjoyment.
Eda: *laughs* What's wrong, punk? Not like being backed into a corner?!
Having enough of this, Vanitas raised his Keyblade above his head and began spiraling it on his palm. The spinning intensely increased speed so much that the force of it created wind pressure to disperse the steam cloud entirely. He looks up to see Eda floating in the air, smirking down at him. In response, Vanitas unleashes his Dark Blizzaga as missiles at her.
Eda: Wuh-oh!
Eda immediately descends to the ground.
Eda: Close one. Alright, time to put the hurt on you!
Eda launches a widespread light-based projectile at Vanitas, which launches him back far. She immediately charges forward, delivering swift punches left and right to his chest until Vanitas catches her last punch with his free hand and tries to strike down with his Keyblade. She dodges but is sent far back by a hard kick in the stomach by Vanitas.
Eda rolled across the floor for a bit until she stopped by about halfway across from the chairs with a skid. Despite her exhaustion and feeling from the pain, she refuses to give up. And so, she immediately uses her healing magic to relieve herself of the damage she received and stands up. Seeing this seemed to have surprised Vanitas.
Eda: Heh, Is that the best you can do?
Deciding to end this, Vanitas summons three large dark spheres circling him, points his Keyblade directly at, and unleashes a massive beam of dark magic known as Dark Cannon. Wasting no time, Eda immediately uses a major amount of magic to her enhancement spell to power herself up. Her eyes began to glow yellow, light magic began to overflow all over her, and from that flow of magic came an owl-shaped avatar emitting a loud echoing hoot. The owl avatar quickly destroys the Dark Cannon, which seemingly shocks Vanitas. Eda, seeing this, grinned.
Eda: My turn.
The light then filled the entire room as she unleashed a massive explosion of light magic. With nowhere to run, Vanitas was engulfed by the light. The attack began to obliterate him. However, before his defeat, Vanitas uttered one sentence which Eda did not hear.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep Music - Vanitas Battle Theme [Extended]]
Vanitas: ...We will meet again...
Vanitas was then completely destroyed, and the light disappeared. Eda looked around for a bit before realizing she had done it.
Eda: *sigh* Done and done.
A white light engulfs everything, and Eda has found herself back with the others. Finally, exhausted, she sits down.
Eda: Yeesh, that was something. ...Hey, where's the welcome?
Eda looks to her left and notices the teens watching one of Sora's memories.
Amity: So let me get this straight...you fought actual TITANS AND GODS?
Inner Sora (KH2): *proud* Yup.
Gus: So cool!
Willow: Amazing.
Luz: I can't believe there's a world where Olympus actually exists... and you, Donald, and Goofy became champion gladiators at their colosseum.
Amity: I SO wanna go there.
Eda: Heya.
The teens turn around and see that Eda's back.
Teens: Eda!
Luz: *hugs Eda* You're back!
Eda: Heh, I said I would be.
Naminé: Excellent job, Eda.
Inner Sora (KH2): You look beat up.
Eda: Yeah, I got a bit rusty in the middle of it, but I took care of him.
Inner Sora (KH2): *gasp* Eda!
Eda: Huh?
The second fragmented Inner Sora took notice of Eda's bruises, mainly her chin, from Vanitas's Shadow Dive attack. He grew concerned.
Inner Sora (KH2): Ow. That must've hurt.
Eda: Aw, don't worry about me. I've handled worse than this.
Inner Sora (KH2): Still, I don't wanna see you hurt.
The Inner Sora used some of his magic to cast a Cure Spell on Eda, effectively recovering her stamina and removing any damage and bruising.
Inner Sora (KH2): There. All better.
Eda: *ruffling Inner Sora's hair* You're sweet, Sora.
Everyone smiled at his kindness. Naminé then interjects.
Naminé: The memory has been repaired. The viewing is ready.
Eda: Great. *thinking* If the four of them continued their fight after all this time...I wanna know what happened.
The group gathered the memory frame, ready to watch it play.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Re: Chain of Memories -Castle Oblivion- Extended]
The memory starts off with Sora, Donald, and Goofy accompanying Aqua down a foggy road.
Eda: Aqua...
Luz: Willow and I saw her in one of Sora's photos.
Willow nods.
Inner Sora (KH2): Are you ok, Eda?
Eda: ...Yeah. *thinking* Wow...ten years...and she hasn't aged a day...
Goofy: You sure about this, Aqua?
Memory Sora (KH3): If you want, we can take you back to Master Yen Sid's tower to rest
with Riku and the King?
Donald: Uh-huh.
Aqua: Thank you. But...Ven's expecting me. I promised to wake him. Said I'd be right back, but I'm not even close. I'm in for an earful.
Aqua smiles to herself, and the trio exchange glances as they arrive at what looks like an abandoned castle of sorts.
Luz: Woah. What's that place?
Naminé: You'll see soon enough...
Aqua takes a deep breath with her hand over her heart. Donald looks from Aqua to the castle, then back to Aqua. Then the castle.
Then Aqua. Then he starts getting impatient, tapping his finger on his arm. Just as he decides he's finished waiting, Goofy clamps him up, muffling his squawking.
[End Kingdom Hearts Re: Chain of Memories -Castle Oblivion- Extended]
As Aqua summons a Keyblade that looks rather archaic, Donald taps on Goofy's hand to get his attention. They watch as Aqua aims the Keyblade at the castle doors, a Keyhole appearing with a dazzling light. Donald breaks free from Goofy's grip, and the three stare in amazement. The wind whips around them, and Aqua steels her resolve. She thrusts the Keyblade forward, and a beam of light sparks forward into the Keyhole. The trio shields themselves from a burst of wind while Aqua stares unblinking as the seal on the castle breaks. A projection of a golden light rises on the face of the castle, and the many towers and floors readjust themselves to match the projection, untwisting and untangling the endless halls, everything clicking into place. The shadowy darkness of the clouds around the castle is pushed back to reveal the brightest blue sky and the most scenic lands. All around the castle is set high in grassy mountains, surrounded by flowing water. The building decreases in width as it reaches the ground, with tall spires protruding from the roof. Two lengths of a golden chain connect the castle to twin peaks.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -The Promised Beginning- Extended]
The group was in awe.
Willow: Woooow... This place is beautiful.
Eda: *whistle* Faaancy.
Amity: *thinking* This place looks SO much more regal than my place, that's for sure.
Luz: Ok. Now I gotta know, what is this place?
Naminé: This is the Land of Departure, home of Aqua. Along with Terra, Ventus, and their late master, Eraqus.
Inner Sora (KH2): Have they mentioned their master to you?
Eda: Only his name, nothing else.
They walk forward in awe of their surroundings. Inside the castle, they walk through the entrance hall, taking in its splendor. Finally, Aqua turns to face them.
Aqua: Ready?
The three of them nod, and they walk through the golden halls and ascend the stairs to the Throne Room, where they find Ventus sleeping in the center of three large chairs. Aqua rushes to his side.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -The Promised Beginning- Extended]
Aqua: Ven.
Eda suddenly welled up in tears and covered her mouth with her hands.
Eda: ...V-Ven...
Everyone noticed Eda.
Inner Sora (KH2): Eda...
The second fragmented Inner Sora placed his hand on her right shoulder as Luz approached Eda to console her.
Eda: Ven, what happened to you...?
As Aqua made her way to Ventus, she touched his face and placed her head on his.
Aqua: I'm sorry it took so long. Ven, wake up. Open your eyes, please!
Ventus doesn't.
Aqua: Why? Your heart never found its way home?
?: That was a neat trick.
Sora, Donald, and Goofy turn to see Vanitas walk in.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep Music - Vanitas Battle Theme [Extended]]
Vanitas: No wonder no one could find him.
Sora: Vanitas!
Eda glares.
Aqua rushes forward, glaring.
Aqua: Why are you here?
Vanitas: Oh, I'm sorry to interrupt your touching reunion, but surely you won't begrudge me a moment with my brother?
The group became shocked.
Group: BROTHER?!
Amity: They're related?!
Gus: Evil family members... Oh, the witchmanity!
Naminé: Not quite family. Vanitas is the physical embodiment of Ventus's darkness.
Willow: Ventus's darkness? How is that possible?
Naminé: I'm afraid I'll reveal that later.
Eda couldn't say anything at first, but then she and Luz remembered a piece from Sora's story.
[Sora: After Aqua was rescued, she, me, Donald, and Goofy set out to rescue Ventus, who was trapped elsewhere inside a castle. But we were ambushed by another Organization member named Vanitas.
Luz: Vanitas?
Sora: He's Ventus's dark counterpart.]
Back at the memory, Sora, Donald, and Goofy summon their weapons and rush at him. Vanitas chuckles and vanishes as they reach him. He reappears behind them, but before Sora can react, he disappears again. Aqua searches the room for him, but he reappears on top of Ven's chair.
Aqua: What?!
Vanitas: So Venty-Wenty wants to keep sleeping. What am I ever going to do with you?
Aqua summons her Keyblade.
Aqua: Shut up!
She leaps up at him, pulling back the Keyblade for a great swing. She whips it forward, but Vanitas's Keyblade meets it. She pushes against him, but he fights back.
Vanitas: You better settle down there, "Master."
She jumps away from him, flipping backward to land on her feet, as he
pursues her to the floor.
Memory Sora (KH3): Aqua, I'll handle him!
Aqua: No. I'm ending this.
Memory Sora (KH3): But...you haven't recovered yet.
Aqua: Sorry, but you've seen me too weak too often. Now it's my turn to shine.
Eda: Aqua...
She created a hexagonal barrier around herself and Vanitas. The trio moves backward as it expands. Sora places a hand while Goofy bangs his fist on the barrier. The trio call ou out to her as Vanitas readies to fight. Demonstrating years of honing her craft, Aqua fights circles around Vanitas. Unfortunately, all of the darkness he can muster fails to snuff out her light. In mid-air, she swings her Keyblade forward, knocking him away, and both fighters fall to the floor. Vanitas turns his head toward Ventus and cackles. He brings his Keyblade back behind his head, igniting the teeth of the blade and sending a meteor straight toward Ventus, creating a deep crack in the magical barrier. Sensing his plan, Aqua leaps to guard the weak point just as Vanitas sends a second meteor to finish the job.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep Music - Vanitas Battle Theme [Extended]]
Aqua slams to the ground, her Keyblade vanishing, as Vanitas releases a dark laugh. Sora watches, helpless, as Vanitas walks over to Aqua and raises his blade.
Memory Sora (KH3): Aqua!
Eda: *gasp*
Sora feels a sudden tug in his chest.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Ventus- Extended [Redux]]
Above the stained glass in Sora's heart, Ventus floats, his eyes closed in sleep.
Ventus: I...have to wake up...
Eda started tearing, even whimpering.
Eda: It's been so long...since I've heard his voice...
Luz and Eda comforted Eda.
Memory Sora (KH3): Yes. Tell me what to do.
Ventus: The Power of Waking...
Memory Sora (KH3): I can't. I still don't have it yet.
Ventus: You never lost it... It sleeps...until someone needs it... Call to it...
Memory Sora (KH3): I am calling...with all my heart.
The stained glass platform shines with a light, and Sora appears. He lifts his Keyblade, and the tip glows. A Keyhole appears on the floor before him, and light ripples through the stained glass. Sora rises off the platform, and the Keyhole shines brilliantly. Soon, thousands of white birds take off from the Keyhole, the light growing along the glass, revealing Ventus's platform. Sora aims his Keyblade, shooting a light beam at Ventus's heart.
Ventus: Thank you for always keeping me safe, Sora...
Eda looked down at Sora for a bit and then back at the memory.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Ventus- Extended [Redux]]
Ventus's eyes begin to open as Sora watches Ven's heart ascend, finally released. The light shining from Ven's body catches Vanitas's attention as Ventus smashes through the barrier.
Ventus: Aqua!
He strikes Vanitas's blade, clenching his teeth, and the clash between light and darkness spills over, shattering the barrier. It settles around them in magical shards, and Sora, Donald, and Goofy rush forward. Vanitas bites his tongue and leaps over them silently.
Vanitas: Three guardians is more than I care to face. But now that my brother is awake...I'm just certain that he'll come to visit.
He disappears into a corridor of darkness, and the group dispels their weapons. Ven helps Aqua stand.
Sora: Aqua, are you all right?
Aqua: Yes. I'm fine, Sora.
Ventus pauses momentarily and then realizes who Sora really was.
Ventus: Huh?! You're...Sora?
Memory Sora (KH3): Yup. Hey, Ventus.
He extends a hand.
Ventus: I get it. You were my second chance.
Memory Sora (KH3): Huh?
Ventus smiles, shaking the thought away, and takes Sora's hand.
Ventus: Call me Ven.
Aqua touches his head.
Aqua: Good morning, Ven.
Ventus: Good morning, Aqua.
The memory ends there. While Willow, Gus, and Amity took a moment to discuss amongst themselves what they saw, Sora, Luz, and Eda talked to each other.
Luz: Aside from Vanitas showing up, it's great they reunited.
Eda: Even so, what happened? What happened to the two of them for the last ten years? Where's Terra? Why was Vanitas connected to them?
Inner Sora (KH2): From what I learned, it's a long story.
Naminé approaches them.
Naminé: I can show you the memories that summarizes everything. First, Sora has told you that Aqua was trapped in the Realm of Darkness for ten years until Sora rescued her.
Luz and Eda nodded.
Naminé: But, for what happened to Ventus...this is what happened.
Naminé motions a memory frame for the group as the others gather around again.
Naminé: This will explain what happened to Ventus before the time in the Land of Departure, in a world known as Monstropolis.
The memory starts with Sora and his friends arriving at the Laugh Floor, a room that can be described as a large interior space at a warehouse with balloons tied to boxes. As Sora, Donald and Goofy, accompanied by a big blue hairy monster, a short big one-eyed green monster, and a little human girl, jumped off as they locked in their terminals.
Inner Sora (KH2): The blue monster is named Sulley, the green monster is named Mike, and the little girl is named Boo. They're our friends who we helped get Boo back to her home.
The group nodded.
[Play Kingdom Hearts 3: Enter the Darkness Cutscenes Version]
Back at the memory, a hooded figure steps toward them, sending Sora on the defensive.
Memory Sora (KH3): Who are you?
?: Gotta say, that strange facade had me fooled at first, brother.
The Figure takes off his hood, revealing a dark reflective helmet.
Group: Vanitas.
Memory Sora (KH3): Wait a sec... *gasp* Oh yeah! You were at the cathedral! And hey! Who are YOU to call anyone strange?
Luz: Cathedral?
Inner Sora (KH2): A cathedral in a sleeping world I went to during my Mark of Mastery exam.
Eda: You mean...HE followed you into other worlds?
Inner Sora (KH2): In a way.
Goofy: Say, do we know this guy?
Donald: Uhhh...
Vanitas: We haven't ever met in the flesh. I am Vanitas.
Goofy and Donald were surprised.
Memory Sora (KH3): This is the part where you spout some mumbo jumbo and disappear, right?
Vanitas walks through one of the workstations.
Vanitas: This whole world—
Group: Eeyup.
Vanitas: —was powered by scream. They converted the screams of human children into energy.
Luz: Say what?
He picks up one of the scream canisters.
Vanitas: And this very company was what made it all happen. It's as rich a source of negative emotion as we'll ever find.
Mike: *angrily* For the last time, we already stopped doing that!
Inner Sora (KH2): Before you ask, save them till the end.
The others nodded in agreement.
Vanitas: Did you? Then how do you explain all these canisters of surplus scream?
He holds the canister up.
Vanitas: This facility was everything I could hope for. And I was lucky enough to find a pawn whose heart was darkened by thoughts of revenge.
He juggles the canister in the air.
Mike: You mean Randall.
Sulley: All Randall ever cared about was winning. And this guy took advantage of that weakness.
It didn't take the group long to figure out that this "Randall" was a bad guy they had to take down in that world.
Vanitas: My heart is made of just one thing. And the Unversed collected enough screams and sadness from those children to reconstruct it.
Mike: Yeah, and the whole time they were trashing our company in the process!
Sulley holds Mike back from rushing at Vanitas, but Mike struggles against
the grip on his head.
Vanitas: But, even with all this negative emotion, my heart is still incomplete. I need something else.
He drops the canister, causing it to clang to the ground before screaming off into the air.
Memory Sora (KH3): Whoa!
The group became slightly terrified at the screams of children from the canister.
Sulley dodges away, taking Mike and Boo with him. They watch as the canister flies around the expansive room, bouncing off the walls until it runs out of scream and crashes to the floor. Mike and Sulley scowl as it rolls to Sora's feet.
Vanitas: The half of me that sleeps on...inside of your heart.
Sora turns around, and gasps as Vanitas holds his Keyblade just inches from him. A voice bursts from Sora's chest.
Memory Sora (KH3):/Ventus: Vanitas!
Sora and the group are taken aback at his outburst, certain of hearing a second voice.
Vanitas: Ventus... What a strange place to slither off to...
He creeps closer to Sora, holding out his hand.
Vanitas: ...you insignificant speck.
Sora knocks his hand away.
Memory Sora (KH3): What are you talking about?
Mike, Sulley, and Boo sneak carefully through the workstations out of sight of Vanitas.
Vanitas: Oh, you wouldn't remember. When you were little...you formed a special bond with a boy named Ventus, who joined with your heart.
Donald: Ven!
Goofy: Is he sayin' that one of the missing Keyblade wielders is inside Sora's heart?
Memory Sora (KH3): How is that possible?
Eda: *thinking* No way...how...why?!
A dark mist swirls around them.
Vanitas: Now, you will return Ventus to me.
Vanitas swings his Keyblade, releasing a dark wind, and Sora feels a tug on his heart. He catches himself falling to the floor as
Donald and Goofy shield him from the front.
Memory Sora (KH3): Donald...Goofy...
Goofy struggles, holding back the dark wind with his shield.
Goofy: The King told us about this. Ventus wasn't able to defeat Vanitas. They struck each other down, and then the King said that Ventus's heart never returned to him!
The group became shocked, especially Eda.
Eda: *thinking* No...
Donald: You're not gonna do that to Sora! No way!
The wind is blasted away.
Vanitas: Stay out of this.
With a wave of his arm, he swipes Donald and Goofy away in a streak of darkness. With Sora left defenseless, they gasped.
Donald/Goofy: Sora!
Vanitas walks closer as Sora stands and
summons his Keyblade. Vanitas knocks it away in seconds with his own and aims it at Sora's chest. The image of Ventus is superimposed over Sora.
Vanitas: Join your heart...with mine!
Vanitas releases another dark wind just as Sulley appears behind him.
Sulley: Made you look!
[End Kingdom Hearts 3: Enter the Darkness Cutscenes Version]
He roars ferociously, and Boo covers her eyes while Mike covers her ears. Vanitas drops his Keyblade, causing it to vanish as Sulley grabs and lifts him up. He struggles against Sulley's firm grip.
Vanitas: Let me go!
Another set of doors slide into the room, brought by Mike.
Mike: Over here, Sulley!
Sulley runs over, tossing Vanitas inside the door.
Sulley: Close it! Quick!
Mike slams the door and Sulley grabs it as Mike runs to the next terminal and opens a second door. Sulley tosses the door inside the second door, and the process repeats with a third and then a fourth door. Finally, the fourth door is shredded into sawdust with glee. Sulley and Mike high-five, and Boo dances.
Sulley: Boo!
Mike: Hey!
The two then high-five Boo.
Memory Sora (KH3): That was awesome!
Donald: Thank you!
Goofy: We owe ya.
Sulley: No, WE should be thanking YOU. We never woulda managed to get Boo
this far if you hadn't come along to help.
The memory ends there.
Eda: Ven lost? He couldn't stop Vanitas... I don't understand...how could he have lost to that punk?! And where was Terra?
Luz: And what was that about Ventus's heart being inside of yours...when you were little?
Amity: And the whole children's screams converted into energy?
Gus: And why did you and you're friends look like monsters?
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Magical Mystery- Extended]
Inner Sora (KH2): To answer Amity's question, the company that Mike and Sulley worked at, called Monster's Inc., originally specialized in providing all citizens in Monstropolis with energy in the form of captured screams collected from children. They accomplish this by crossing into the human world through door technology, portals connected to closets of children's bedrooms, and scaring them to the best of their ability. The screams are then collected in special canisters for use as energy.
[Pause Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Magical Mystery- Extended]
-RECORD SCRATCH-
[Play Kingdom Hearts - Oopsy-Daisy]
Luz: WAIT A DANG MINUTE! You're telling me that the whole "monsters under the bed and in the closets" shtick were caused by them?!
The others looked at her perplexed.
Inner Sora (KH2): Yeah.
Luz: ...I KNEW IT! I KNEW I WASN'T CRAZY! MY MOM TOLD ME IT WAS JUST MY IMAGINATION! I SWEAR IF I EVER VISIT THAT WORLD SOMEHOW, I WANNA FIND THE MONSTER THAT SCARED ME ALL THOSE YEARS AGO AND KICK THEIR FREAKING—
Inner Sora (KH2): LUZ!
Luz flinches.
Inner Sora (KH2): Get a hold of yourself! We can worry about that later.
Luz: *chuckles sheepishly* Sorry, I just couldn't believe it.
[End Kingdom Hearts - Oopsy-Daisy]
[Play Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Magical Mystery- Extended]
Inner Sora (KH2): Hmmm. To answer Gus's question, it's just the World Order. Whenever me, Donald, and Goofy visit a different world, Donald uses his magic to give us disguises. So we'd blend in and not draw unwanted attention.
The group understood that.
Gus: So, if the three of you came HERE, then...
Sora: Imagine me with witch ears and Donald and Goofy as demons.
The group pictured Sora with witch ears, and all thought: "Huh."
Gus: We wouldn't be able to see through you at all.
Amity: Agreed.
Luz: Not much difference, but it'd be cool to see.
Willow: Mmhm.
A little blush came from Willow at the thought of Sora with witch ears, though it went unnoticed.
[End Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX -Magical Mystery- Extended]
Inner Sora (KH2): As for Terra... Naminé.
Naminé nods as she motions to another memory frame.
Naminé: This memory takes place at the Keyblade Graveyard. It is here where we will see what happened to Terra. Before viewing, the Keyblade Graveyard was the world where the Keyblade War took place between Sora and the others against Xehanort and his Seekers of Darkness. It is also here that I will give you all the final explanations on Vanitas.
The other paid attention to the memory as it started to play. The memory starts with Sora inside a labyrinth, matching the colored panels to open up doorways. Sora makes his way to the Twist of Isolation to see Aqua landing back on her feet and blocks as a muscular man with white flowing hair swipes forward with his Keyblade.
Eda, Luz, and Willow were shocked to see who they recognized.
Eda/Luz/Willow: Terra!
Eda: What happened to him?! Why is he fighting Aqua?!
Aqua strikes at Terra, but he knocks the blade away, performing his own attack, forcing her to leap backward and away from him. She lands on one knee, looking up to see Vanitas knock Ventus back next to her.
Seeing Ventus and Vanitas fighting each other surprised the group.
Ven grits his teeth as Vanitas lands next to Terra, sneering from under his black helmet.
Memory Sora (KH3): Aqua! Ven!
They turn to see Sora enter.
Aqua/Ven: Sora.
He nods to each of them in turn, and the battle begins.
Vanitas: Well, that's better. I was hoping to have company.
Aqua: *to Terra* You will release my friend's heart!
Eda: What?
Aqua bolts toward Terra and strikes him, a swirl of energy shining upwards and knocking him back. Sora attacks Vanitas as Ventus tosses his Keyblade toward his darker half. It spins through the air, hitting him
multiple times. Vanitas blocks with his Keyblade, aiming it at Aqua.
Vanitas: Perish!
A fireball erupts from the blade, splitting into three homing fireballs, which hit their mark. Sora rushes Terra while Aqua gets back up, leaving Ventus to Vanitas.
Terra: Come on!
Terra exchanges blow with Sora before teleporting away.
Terra: Over here!
He barrels through Sora, ferociously slicing with his Keyblade, leaving a burst of darkness in his wake. Ventus attacks Vanitas, but his image freezes.
Vanitas: Annoying!
Without warning, Vanitas tears through the mirage, striking Ventus in retaliation.
Vanitas: Let's go!
Vanitas leaps into the air as a large mass of Keyblades swarm over the battlefield. He lands on the flowing spiral of blades as Aqua and Xehanort square off.
Vanitas: Dodge this!
Vanitas sends a barrage of ice shards toward Sora and Ventus before barreling toward them. They dodge away from the attack.
Vanitas: You're nothing!
He surrounds himself with the Keyblades, sending volleys at Sora. Sora dodges away from them until Vanitas runs out of blades. Suddenly, Vanitas teleports above Sora, knocking him away. Terra, on the offensive, pummels Aqua with strike after strike, but with each, she dodges. At the crest of his attack, he sends an X-shaped projectile at her, but Ventus intercepts, reflecting it toward Vanitas and knocking him to the ground.
[Play Kingdom Hearts III Soundtrack - Distant From You -cutscene-]
Darkness is drawn from Vanitas as poison is drawn from a wound, his connection severed. Cracks form in his helmet, and shards of black glass fall, revealing dark, spiky hair and a familiar face. Sora gasps, and Vanitas stares at him through a yellow eye.
Memory Sora (KH3): *blinks* Your face...!
The group became horrified at what they saw. Vanitas looks completely identical to Sora. The only difference is Vanitas has Black hair and yellow eyes. The group looked at Inner Sora and wanted to ask how and why Vanitas looks just like him, but he told them to watch the memory.
Vanitas: I'm the piece of Ventus that was taken away. And you're the piece Ventus needed to be whole again. So...why shouldn't you and I look exactly the same? You define me, Sora, the same way that Ventus does. We are brothers who, together, make a greater whole.
Memory Sora (KH3): Then why won't you stand by our side? Instead of with darkness?
Vanitas: *smiling* Because I AM darkness. And I do stand by your side. I'm the shadow that you cast. How much closer could I be?
Memory Sora (KH3): But I didn-
Ventus holds out an arm in front of Sora.
Ventus: But I didn't ask for this.
Ventus: To be sifted apart, nice and neat. We should be free to choose. Not just light...
Eda: *thinking* Sifted apart...
He points to himself and then to Vanitas.
Ventus: ...not just darkness. We decide what we are.
Vanitas: But... Ventus, I DID decide who I am. You see?
Ventus: And what you are is darkness?
Vanitas begins to fade.
Vanitas: What I am is darkness.
They stare at each other, unbent for a moment.
Ventus *conceding*: Ok.
Memory Sora (KH3): How is that ok? Vanitas!
His body begins to break apart, but he smiles to himself. And so, Vanitas finally disappeared, leaving Sora and Ventus standing there without saying anything.
[End Kingdom Hearts III Soundtrack - Distant From You -cutscene-]
Before anyone else could say anything, Naminé spoke.
Naminé: Your questions regarding Vanitas will be answered. But first, you must keep watching for Terra.
The memory continues, with Terra beginning to attack.
Terra: Dark times ahead!
The field erupts with swirling energy, and a dark living creature emerges from behind him.
Terra: Don't let him escape.
The Dark Figure slams into the ground, knocking Sora and Ventus off-balance as the wind around them starts to blow. It spins faster around the arena, pulling Aqua and the others into the center, struggling against the
whipping the air as numerous bolts of the lightning strike around them.
Terra: Break him!
Unable to escape, the Dark Figure slashes at them with his claws. Aqua and Ventus are sent flying into the lightning, and the Dark Figure teleports above Sora, slamming him down to the ground. The Dark Figure phases into the ground, creating a pool of darkness as Sora gets back to his feet. Out
of the ground emerge purple spikes before the Dark Figure shoots back up, knocking Ventus off kilter. Individually, they attempt to distract Terra while another moves in for a strike. From his Keyblade, he emits dark
projectiles, which grow in number but are sent back toward him with a powerful Reflega spell.
Terra: What...? How?
The darkness around Terra has wrenched away from him, and he falls to the ground. Aqua and Ventus dispel their Keyblades, as does Sora.
Aqua/Ven: Terra!
They run past Sora and kneel over him, pulling him up to a kneeled position.
Terra: Aqua... Ven...
Aqua: Terra, please...
Terra grunts in pain.
Ventus: Come back... Terra!
Terra clutches his head, burying his fingers in his white hair.
Memory Sora (KH3): Terra! Your friends are here!
Suddenly, Terra screams, and chains of darkness ensnare Ventus, Aqua, and Sora, suspending them in the air.
Aqua: Terra!
Ventus: Terra!
They struggle against the chains as Terra seems to struggle for control.
Memory Sora (KH3): You have to fight the darkness!
Terra stands, smiling from under his hand.
Terra: You'll never be able to break these chains. They're OUR BONDS.
He reaches out and swings Aqua and Ven around.
Terra: You have no power over me!
He whips them up and down, cackling while Sora watches helplessly.
Eda: *glaring while muttering* Terra...what the heck?!
Memory Sora (KH3): Stop, Terra!
Terra ignores him, continuing to toss the two around.
Memory Sora (KH3): Please, stop it!
Terra laughs evilly, Aqua and Ven having gone silent. He raises them up in front of him. They hardly move a muscle.
Terra: Farewell.
The chains rattle as he lifts the two of them higher, prepared to drop them.
Memory Sora (KH3): No!
Terra smiles, and tears fall from Ven's eyes.
Ventus: *softly speaking* Terra... I kept my promise.
Terra releases them, and the two sink toward the ground, directed by the mad conductor's own arms.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Terra- Extended [Redux]]
From behind Terra, the Dark Figure flies ahead, catching both Ventus and Aqua and clutching the chains in its fist. It whirls to face Terra, who looks behind him, finding himself absent a shadow. He glares at the Dark Figure, who crushes the chains in its fist. They shatter around Sora, who drops to the ground as the Figure sets Aqua and Ven down gently.
Terra: How?!
It looks over at Terra.
Terra: You fell to the dark-
Terra attempts to summon his Keyblade, but a slap from behind distracts him, as the Dark Figure suddenly appears next to him, grabbing him by the face. Xehanort grabs at its great hand, attempting to claw it off of him. The Dark Figure reaches for the bandages covering its toothed mouth. With
some effort, it tears them apart, freeing its jaw. It releases an anticipated exhale and attempts to speak.
Dark Figure: One...day...I...will...set...this... right...
It holds Terra out in front of him by his head, where he struggles. Then, the Dark Figure repeats his speech.
Dark Figure: One day...I will set...this right... I will return to this land...
From between its fingers, Terra's eye widens.
Dark Figure: ...and protect...my friends!
The heart-shaped hole in the center of the Dark Figure sparks with light, signaling Sora to summon his Keyblade. He aims it at Terra.
Memory Sora (KH3): Terra! Now!
Group: ?!
A beam of light erupts from the Keyblade, striking Terra fully in the back as the Dark Figure releases his grip on him. The heart inside bursts from its chest, and the Dark Figure dissolves as the heart flies into Terra's
body. Light spreads out in waves in all directions, growing brighter. Terra lands on his feet, seemingly back to normal as his hair changes from white to brown. He looks down at his hands, almost in disbelief. He turns, running back to Aqua and Ventus.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Terra- Extended [Redux]]
[Play Kingdom Hearts III Soundtrack - Chains to Bonds]
Terra: Aqua! Ven!
Aqua sits up as Terra grabs Ven's body.
Aqua: Terra... Is it you?
He smiles warmly at her.
Terra: Yeah. You never stopped fighting my way back.
She begins to cry, and Ven stirs, looking up at him.
Ventus: You're here...
Terra: I heard you too, Ven.
Tears well up in his eyes.
Terra: You found me, just like you promised.
The three of them nestle closely, crying together.
Terra: Thank you.
Sora smiles at the three friends reunited.
Sora: Aqua and Ventus need rest. Terra, look after them.
They stand as Sora turns to go.
Ventus: No, Sora. I'm going too.
He steps forward but stumbles, and Sora turns back around.
Sora: That's what he wants. For us to make a mistake. Put ourselves in danger.
Aqua: Sora, go. We'll catch up with you.
Terra nods.
Sora: Right. I got this.
[End Kingdom Hearts III Soundtrack - Chains to Bonds]
The memory ends with Sora running off. Eda immediately asked one question.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Tears Of The Light- Extended]
Eda: What happened to Terra?
Inner Sora (KH2): Long story short, Xehanort took control of Terra and forced him to be his thirteenth member of the Seekers of Darkness. If my guess is correct, Xehanort had control over him for the last ten years. Until He finally broke free and reunited with Aqua and Ven in that moment.
Eda: They fought them before... didn't they?
Inner Sora (KH2): Huh?
Eda: *trying to hold back her anger* I remember...one time they mentioned finding Xehanort. They must've known what he was up to before all those years and tried to stop him. If Ansem and Xemnas were the Heartless and Nobody of Xehanort, and they both tried to go after Kingdom Hearts, then that must mean he tried to go after it before that, and it involved the three of them. Terra, Aqua, Ventus must've fought Xehanort and Vanitas to try and stop them from taking Kingdom Hearts. That must be it.
Inner Sora (KH2): Eda...
Eda dropped to her knees and slammed the ground with her fist.
Eda: *angry with tears* Those darn idiots! Why didn't they say anything? I could've backed them up all those years ago. All they had to do was ask, and I would've helped them out as they helped me! I may not have been strong as I am now, but if the four of us had worked together at that time, we could've taken Xehanort and Vanitas out! I'm sure of it!
The second fragmented Inner Sora knelt down to comfort Eda.
Inner Sora (KH2): It was because of the World Order. Us Keyblade wielders aren't allowed to reveal confidential information like that, much less take denizens out from their respective worlds to others.
Eda: Hmph! A lot of good that rule did.
Inner Sora (KH2): I kinda agree with you on that. If they had broken the rules that time, and brought you or other help, maybe they would've succeeded in taking out Xehanort. Even though I sometimes forget about the World Order... *narrowing his eyes* sometimes...I find it a hindrance. Especially in situations where they're are large stakes.
Luz, Eda, Willow, Gus, Amity, and Naminé look at Sora. While saying nothing, they seemed to be inclined to agree with him in that regard. The more they thought about it, the more it seemed right in the long run. Sometimes, you'll have to break the rules for the greater good. The prime examples are Terra, Aqua, Ventus, and Sora. They experienced the same thing, engaged in a war against Xehanort, a madman who stopped at nothing to obtain Kingdom Hearts. Although in Sora's case, based on his words, they can tell he deliberately disobeyed the World Order to do what he truly thought was right at times. With that in mind, it looks even crazier with all his previous experiences. Luz approached the Inner Sora with a question but was hesitant. He notices this and asks if she wants to ask him something.
Luz: Sora... Hypothetically, if any of us, or this world, was in danger...and the only way to save us was to break the rules...would you—
Inner Sora (KH2): Yes.
They all look at him in surprise.
Inner Sora (KH2): I would do everything I could to save you all, especially if I had to break the rules. Be it the World Order or meddling in other world affairs. I believe regulations should never be above the lives of my friends or the innocent. I'll even fight off this entire world or its leaders if it means I can keep you guys safe. I'll even risk my life.
Eda stands as she and the others look at him with awe and sadness.
Luz: No, Sora. Don't do that.
Inner Sora (KH2): Huh?
Luz: We're happy to hear that you'll go above and beyond for your other friends and us, but we don't want you to risk your life like that. We want you to live alongside us, so we can grow together and fight together. *looks around at the others* Right, guys?
Eda: Obviously. We can't have you dying on us, for us.
Willow: Yeah...even though we've only known you for a little while now, I feel like we want you in our lives as long as possible.
Gus: I want us to grow up together. Even though you'll have to leave from time to time to save the other worlds, we should still be able to hang out.
Amity: ...Even though we won't live forever. I want to be able to...spend as much time as possible with you...and the others. We don't want you to sacrifice yourself for us. We don't want you to leave us like that. *thinking* I don't want you to leave me like that...
Inner Sora (KH2): You guys... Ok. If I'm going to secure a future where all of us are together, I'll have to get even stronger.
Luz: And so will we.
Eda/Willow/Gus/Amity: Yeah.
Naminé lowers her head. She suddenly felt that there may come a time when Sora could risk his life for them. But, naturally, she hopes such an event will never come to pass.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Tears Of The Light- Extended]
After a while of silence, Naminé brings up a memory frame.
Naminé: Everyone.
They all turned to Naminé.
Naminé: I dove deep into Sora's mind to recover this memory for him. Sora, you never found out how Ventus was able to reside in your heart, correct?
Inner Sora (KH2): *nods* Never got the chance to ask.
Naminé: *nods* This memory reveals what I believe is the true nature of Sora's and Vanitas's resemblance.
The group pays attention as the memory starts with a young Sora and young Riku lying in front of the mainland shore of their homeworld, Destiny Islands.
The others couldn't help but coo at the sight of young Sora.
Luz/Willow: Awww, it's baby you, Sora!
Inner Sora (KH2): Aw, jeez. *chuckles sheepishly*
Eda: *snort* Well, weren't you an adorable little half-pint?
Gus: *chuckles*
Amity: I agree. You look adorable.
Inner Sora (KH2): *groaning in hands while flustered* Please, stop.
Naminé giggles.
[Play Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Ventus- Extended [Redux]]
After Sora and Riku looked up at the night sky for a bit, Riku sat up.
Riku: Hey, I'm gonna head back.
Sora sits up as well.
Memory Sora (BBS): Yeah. Me too.
The group couldn't help but coo again at the sound of his voice.
Group: Awww, even your voice was adorable.
Inner Sora (KH2): Stop it! *groans while flustered*
They start walking back to town. Riku looks over at Sora.
Riku: Sora, what's wrong?
Memory Sora (BBS): Huh?
Riku: You're...
Sora sheds a tear.
Group: *cooing* Awwwwww.
Inner Sora (KH2): *flustered even more*
Memory Sora (BBS): That's weird. It's like something's squeezing me inside.
Riku: Somebody up there must be sad.
Memory Sora (BBS): Up where?
Riku: They say every world is connected by one great big sky. So maybe there's
somebody up there in all those worlds who's really hurting, and they're waiting
for you to help them.
Memory Sora (BBS): Well gee, do you think there's something I could do?
Riku: Hmm... Maybe they just need you to open your heart and listen.
Memory Sora (BBS): Hmmm... I dunno Riku, you say some weird stuff sometimes, but I'll try it.
Riku: Ok.
Sora looks at the sky and closes his eyes.
Memory Sora (BBS): Hey... Can you hear me?
Sora finds himself at his heart's station. The group noticed it looked different than it is now. Instead of the six circles depicting his friends, they were depicted with a fish hanger, a tiki mask, a triton with a harpoon next to it, a raft, a couple of wrenches, and mushrooms. The group sees Sora looking around and then sees a light falling from the darkness.
Memory Sora (BBS): Hey. Can you hear me?
Light: I heard your voice. It cut through the darkness around me. All alone, I followed the sound, into a sea of light...and found myself here, with you.
The group instantly recognized the voice belonging to Ventus.
Sora nods as he holds the light in his hands.
Ven: You gave me something back when I needed it most. A second chance.
Memory Sora (BBS): I did?
Ven: But...now I have to go back to sleep again.
Memory Sora (BBS): Are you sad?
Ventus pauses.
Ventus: Would you mind if I stayed here, with you?
Memory Sora (BBS): Sure, if it'll make you feel better.
Ventus: Thank you.
Ventus's heart goes into Sora's body. Sora then opens his eyes to find he's back on Destiny Islands.
Riku: Well?
Memory Sora (BBS): Ya know... I think it worked.
They look up at the night sky, where three stars twinkle brighter than the rest. The memory ends there.
Naminé: Because of this, I have formulated a likely theory of how all of this is connected. In the conversation between Sora, Ventus, and Vanitas, Ventus mentioned how he didn't ask to be "sifted apart." And as Sora told Luz and Eda, Vanitas and many others served Xehanort in his Seekers of Darkness, also known as the Real Organization XIII. With that in mind, we can assume that Xehanort had something to do with Ventus and Vanitas being extracted from one another. After Ventus and Vanitas struck each other down, Vanitas was destroyed, and Ventus made his way to Sora. And since Vanitas is Ventus's darkness, they were still linked to one another. This likely means that Sora was linked to Ventus and Vanitas simultaneously, and some sort of reaction occurred that allowed Vanitas to take Sora's appearance after his return.
The group stood there completely perplexed.
Luz: That...somehow sounds clear and confusing at the same time.
Amity: You're telling me. Even I'm having somewhat of a hard time wrapping my head around it.
Gus: Never in my life would I imagine a life's story as crazy and or convoluted as this.
Willow: I agree with that.
Eda: *sigh* Well, regardless of how it all happened, I'm glad to know that they're still alive. *looks to Sora* And it's all thanks to you, Sora. You saved all three of them.
Inner Sora (KH2): I had to. They were good people who suffered too much for too long.
Eda: *nods* Hm. *sigh* I just wish I could see them again.
Inner Sora (KH2): ...Eda?
Eda: Hm?
Inner Sora (KH2): *hugs Eda* You will... I promise that someday...I'll gather you four together, so you can meet again. World Order or no World Order.
Eda smiles softly
Eda: Thanks, Sora. I look forward to it.
Eda hugs back. And the two stay there for a bit as everyone else watches with soft smiles.
[End Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep -Ventus- Extended [Redux]]
(NOTE: The events of Kingdom Hearts 3 finally begin! Sorry about the late upload. So much stuff happened throughout August, and it took so much of my time. Dang. Also, this chapter was quite a LONG one to work on. Hopefully, ya'll loved it. On another note, there's something going on throughout this month that I need to focus on. BUT! I will do my best to make sure I get the next chapter up ASAP. Until then-aw, heck! You already know what Eda says. Ha.)
