*Disclaimer - I do not own the copyright to characters or series of Azur Lane nor Kingdom Hearts. All rights belong to their respective owners.
*A/N - Hey there, how's it going? Hope you're doing all right or well. The last chapter ended with a few things not discussed or mentioned which for the record will be addressed here in this one. Along with the bomb drop in the last chapter. That will most definitely be answered and explained. So, without further ado, I would like to once again say thank you for showing interest in this story and the craziness of this crossover idea. Sora's still got a whole lot of things to do and girls to meet. He's in for a rough time but knowing how he is, then he is bound to make friends with everyone. And with that, until next time. Take care and enjoy.
"What can you tell me about Shibuya?"
Those words coming from the Keyblade wielder had left everyone in attendance confused. This was what the boy wanted to know about?
Immediately after processing what he had said, all the girls started looking at one another while starting to ask each other if there was any sort of significance in what he asked. Those that had grown closer to the boy in such a short amount of time were nonetheless puzzled. In the time that they had spent with him, Sora did not mention anything about… well, anything superficial.
Rather… the few that were close to him knew that he was from another world but to hear that he was interested in a certain city was quite intriguing.
"Sora, why the sudden interest in Shibuya?" Mikasa asked the boy.
Looking down at his hands, the spiky-haired boy couldn't help but smile to himself. Flashbacks to his time in Traverse Town during his Mark of Mastery and the encounters he had with his new friends. Neku, Shiki, Beat, Rhyme, and Joshua.
Along with the last thing that he and Neku said to each other before his friends returned to their home world.
"See you in Shibuya."
Thinking of those words again and what he saw on that map while making his way to the council room, Sora felt a flicker of hope and excitement flood his heart. The chance that some of his friends might actually be here… He felt like cheering and happily singing along!
However, he soon stopped and started thinking about everything on a grander scale.
'If Neku and the others are here in this world, then does that mean they've had to deal with the Sirens along with whatever game it was that they got caught up in? And…'
Lifting his hand in front of him, another thought suddenly appeared in the Keyblade wielder's head. The memory of waking up in that city… followed by encountering Yozora on top of that strange cylindrical building and…
Now that he was thinking about it, the building where he dueled against Yozora was the same building that he saw in his dream or whatever he was experiencing at the time. There had to be some sort of importance to that building, right? So many questions started to fill the boy's mind which was making him on the verge of overloading his brain.
Forcing himself to calm down, Sora let out a sigh before looking back at Nagato and Mikasa who had graciously given the boy a second to gather his thoughts while the rest of the girls either watched him curiously or were silently talking with one another about the question regarding Shibuya.
"I… A few of my friends that I encountered on one of my journey's happened to mention that Shibuya was their hometown. And on the way here, I happened to notice a map that had the location marked with a star. Which is how I arrived at that question" Sora stated clearly to the brunette woman who smiled warmly at him.
"Well, Shibuya is doing fine if that's what you are asking" Nagato finally responded to the boy.
"Moreover, I hear that the city is beautiful around this time of year," Mikasa added.
"I see… Wait, Mikasa, you said that like you've never been there before?" Sora questioned the girl.
"That's because none of us have ever stepped foot on the mainland," Nagato answered.
"Huh? How come?"
"Many reasons. But the most obvious one is that we've been engaged in nonstop combat with the Sirens. Not leaving us much time to go out and have a vacation of sorts. Not that we need one, of course. We may have differences with each other but the one thing that we can all agree on is preventing the Sirens from hurting anyone else" Nagato affirmed to the Keyblade wielder.
All the girls in attendance nodded their heads in agreement with what the subjective leader of the Sakura Empire stated. It didn't matter if they didn't like one another. When it came to the safety of this world and its people, then they would do whatever it takes to beat back the darkness.
Hearing this though, Sora couldn't help but feel sad for the girls. Unable to have the chance to take a break and relax or experience new sights… but at the same time, he also understood the feeling. Recalling how rushed for time he was to regain all the power that he lost to be prepared for the Keyblade War.
He couldn't help but frown.
"But… aren't you all curious about what's out there?" the spiky-haired boy asked.
"Out there?" one of the girls in attendance muttered loud enough for Sora to hear.
"Yeah! Aren't you curious about what amazing sights there are? Maybe you've seen pictures or heard about them. Wouldn't you want to go there and see them for yourself?"
Taking the boy's words into thought, many of the girls did have their own thoughts about what he was saying. For instance, Enterprise wanted to visit all the historical sights that the Eagle Union had like the great lakes or Grand Canyon. Getting to go camping and take pictures or even purchase little knick-knacks from each location was something she really wanted to do. Especially with her sisters by her side. The sight of Yorktown and Hornet posing next to each other while standing there waiting to have their picture taken warmed the girl's heart.
Across the room, another girl was now imagining what it would be like to travel and that was Hood. Fantasizing about visiting many different places and getting to indulge herself in all the tasty foods that Paris had to offer while sitting atop the Eiffel Tower and just taking the view in. Followed by visiting all the museums and renowned sights the city had to offer before moving to another location and doing it all again. Not to mention, purchasing varieties of poems along the way and taking to heart to remember them word for word.
Another girl lost in thought now was Zuikaku who could imagine herself attending the high-prestige kendo tournaments being held throughout Japan and learning what techniques and methods that could be used to improve her fighting style. Along with stuffing her face with all the amazing foods that she would go searching for in her journey leaving her with a suitcase full of sweats and clothes that would have probably caught her eye. Not to mention, she would drag Shoukaku with her to visit all the onsens that they could find and spend countless hours in.
Consequently, one girl, in particular, was having many fond thoughts at the possibility of getting to travel and step away from all the fighting and that was Prinz Eugen. Her mind drifted back home and started imagining the idea of just traveling across the land without having to worry about whether or not a Siren would show up and cause mayhem. But the idea of visiting bars with all of her close friends who she practically considered family and doing nothing but singing along to songs that didn't make any sense while having a bright smile on her face.
Which coincidentally brought these four girls and, of course, the others whose imaginations started to take form into another idea. One that superficially included a certain spiky-haired boy that was smiling at them and causing their hearts to flutter.
Almost as if on demand, most of the girls snapped out of their senses and shook their heads while all looking at Sora who had a confused look on his face. He must've figured that everyone was daydreaming about what he was talking about and went back to addressing Nagato.
"While that is a lovely thought… That is one that I believe everyone is willing to put on hold. At least until we have rid the Sirens from our homes and this world entirely" Nagato stated, pulling everyone to an agreement and nodding their heads.
Seeing this, Sora couldn't help but decide to push the conversation back to what he wanted to know more about.
"So… seeing that you have never been to Shibuya, then…. Is there a way that I could see what it looks like?"
"You'd like to see what it looks like?" Noshiro commented from the side which drew Sora's attention.
"Yeah… I'm really curious about what the city looks like. And if I'm right…" Sora replied while leaving that last part to himself.
"I see, then if you'll give me a moment."
Standing up from her seat and letting her ears twitch, Nagato soon started typing away at something that was in front of her before a screen appeared right in front of the Sakura Empire leader. The screen was fairly big to the point that everyone in attendance was able to see what was being displayed. Sora was even more intrigued by what he was seeing.
A city with tall buildings and so many people walking along the streets looking almost like ants from where he stood. The boy wanted to know more about this place.
"Lady Nagato, is there a… How do I say this… Is there a certain building that is circular?"
"Circular?" Mikasa repeated.
"I mean, it's like a circle but it goes up. It's not that tall but it stands out. And it has numbers on the side" Sora explained, well at the very least he hoped he did.
Taking a second to process what Sora was trying to describe, one Sakura Empire girl immediately knew what he was talking about. That girl happened to be a certain brunette girl with horns and a special taste in cosmetics and clothing.
"Oh! I know exactly what building you're talking about."
Spinning himself around, the pointy-haired boy looked to the audience who all pointed at one girl in particular.
"Hi! I don't think I've actually met you yet?"
"That's all right. My name is Kirishima. And I know what building you're trying to describe" the girl now known as Kirishima responded.
"What is it? Or does it even have a name?"
"The building is mainly directed toward women's clothing and accessories. Fashion of varying different styles. Since I've never been there any chance I can get to see what's new or being promoted in the store I tend to try and make myself or get one of the other girls to make" Kirishima elaborated to practically everyone in attendance.
Some girls even started writing down notes.
"As for its name…"
The boy leaned forward as he kept his ears ready.
"It's called Shibuya 109."
…
…
…
Silence consumed the council room.
Sora had to blink several times while also making sure that he heard her right and had to take a step back. He felt his heart drop.
The defeated look on his face said everything that needed to be said.
Many of the girls once again looked concerned for the boy as he did not take the news kindly. It didn't sit right with them to see the young man now identified to many as a hero to look so… sad.
Wanting to make sure or at the very least see with his own eyes, Sora turned to look at Nagato who was watching him closely. The same could be said with Queen Elizabeth and Enterprise. Amagi had also begun to wonder why the boy looked strange.
"Lady Nagato, would you- could you please pull up a photo of the building Kirishima is talking about? Please?"
Sympathizing for the boy, Nagato did as asked and pulled up a picture of the building in question. Soon the screen shifted to another scenery, and it turned out to be one that left the Guardian of Light even more confused.
The buildings surrounding the picture being shown were downright similar to what he saw both in the strange dream sequence he experienced and his encounter with Yozora. But at the same time, it wasn't. And the building that he was looking at with his own eyes… it was the exact same. Only… it wasn't the same!
The key difference between what he saw and what he was seeing now was the numbers used to describe the building. During the dream and fight with Yozora the building had a distinctive 104 on its side. And now the building he was looking at now had a 109.
"Could the building change the numbers on its side?" Sora asked aloud but primarily directed to Kirishima.
"No. It hasn't changed. It's always been 109."
Hearing this caused the boy to feel weak in his knees in his entire body and even felt himself start to stagger while he was standing. This caused everyone in attendance to jump to their feet and get ready to spring into action. However, the boy caught himself and was now standing up straight. As dramatic as he was acting it was certainly valid. None of what he was seeing was making any sense.
'Always been 109… Then… what did I see? I know for sure what I saw. The building had 104 on its side. But… if that building is not here, then is it in another world? Another Shibuya? Like in the dream worlds where Riku and I went through two versions of a world? Wait, is that possible? No. Focus. I've never encountered a city with the name Shibuya… I… Maybe I'm just freaking out. How do I even know the 104 Shibuya building is where Neku is? Maybe he and the others are here? Or maybe I'm wrong? That doesn't answer why the building is so similar… what's going on? I… I don't understand. None of this makes any sense at all…"
Sora was left with a bundle of thoughts infiltrating his head and leaving him confused beyond belief. There were so many questions that he had and no real sense of an answer for any of them. And the only one who could understand what any of the nonsense that he was thinking about… was him. Nobody else could help him.
Noticing that the boy looked to be utterly lost, Amagi had a feeling and let her heart speak.
"Sora?"
Hearing his name called out, he turned to look at the brunette kitsune that called out to him.
"Huh? Amagi? What's up?"
"Are you okay?"
"Y-Yeah. I've just… got a lot on my mind."
"If something is bothering you, then don't be afraid to ask for help. It's the least any of us could do after all that you've done to help us" Amagi stated to the boy while offering a friendly smile.
Processing what the older kitsune sister said, Sora couldn't help but realize that he may have been jumping the gun thinking that no one else would be able to understand him. Sure, not everyone would be able to know everything about him but that didn't matter. As long as he was able to express his feelings and open his heart out to others who were willing to listen, then he'd be alright.
"Amagi, thanks."
Feeling the mood start to move back to normal, Mikasa was the first to bring the boy's attention back to the topic at hand.
"Sora, was there… anything else you wished to know about Shibuya? You mentioned your friends living there."
Giving what Mikasa said some thought, Sora knew what to say even if he didn't agree with himself.
"…I think I'm ok now."
"What?"
"But didn't you- weren't you excited to see your friends again? Mikasa asked, completely baffled by the boy's change in decision.
Looking at the open window inside the council room, Sora truly wanted to see if his friends were there. To get the chance to see them… to see someone familiar. But at the same time, he wasn't sure if he should.
Sure, it would be great to see Neku and the others again but what if by going to see them he manages to bring them into the conflict regarding the Sirens and now the Heartless. And not to mention, what if they aren't here? What if there's another world out there that could have an exact city named Shibuya? That was something that Sora was putting some deep thought into. But again, how could he know? What if he was wrong?
Then that's another mistake that he would have to take responsibility for.
Coming back to his senses, Sora knew he had to clear up some things.
"I was. I still am excited at the idea that my friends could be there. But… I think I'll wait to see them." Grasping at his hands in front of him, the Keyblade wielder continued. "I don't want to drag them into the conflict with the Heartless and Sirens. In fact, now this just makes me want to work harder into stopping them. To make sure that the next time I see my friends it will be on good terms, and I won't have to worry about them getting hurt. It's the least I could do…" the spiky-haired boy explained to everyone in attendance.
Many of the girls were saddened to hear what the boy said, but at the same time, most of them now had a better view of him. To see that he would valiantly give up the chance to see his friends in order to make sure that they would be safe and away from all the fighting.
"Sora…" Amagi whispered, feeling a twinge of sadness in her heart at the boy's expense.
"Well then, seeing that you now have your answer. Is there anything else you would like?" Nagato asked.
"Huh? But all I asked was for more about Shibuya?"
"Yes. However, seeing that you've done so much for us, I still would like to gift you with something."
Wanting to decline the generous offer once again, Sora was about to but stopped himself when he started thinking about something else that bothered him. Something that he remembered encountering. The black cube.
"Actually, there is something I would like."
"Of course! Please, do tell us. What is it you'd like?"
Making sure to have his request heard, Sora spoke loud and clear for everyone to hear.
"What was the black cube that Akagi had? And what happened to it?" the brown-spiky-haired boy questioned.
Akagi who had been sitting quietly with her head down next to Kaga and Amagi suddenly had her ears twitch and look up at Sora. Red and blue eyes met each other.
"The black cube as Akagi reported to me was a device that was given to her by the Sirens. We confiscated the dark cube and have some of our technicians looking over it right now as we speak. Moreover, the cube was supposed to amplify her abilities and give her the power to save Amagi. You should ask her for any more details, Sora" Nagato elaborated.
Nodding his head, the boy began to walk across the council room and found himself standing in front of the brown-haired kitsune girl. Said girl was now feeling a bit awkward at having the spotlight shined right on her.
"Akagi. What exactly is the dark cube?"
Nodding at the answer, she began to elaborate.
"The dark cube is a sort of conduit. Or another way of explaining it would be the usage of a drug that strengthens one's power. I had struck a… deal with the Sirens. In exchange, they gave me the cube along with the false promise of protecting Kaga and saving Amagi."
Clutching her gloved hand, Akagi frowned to herself while casting a glance over at Amagi who was watching her carefully with a softened look.
"But… that wasn't the case. When I first touched the dark cube, it was too much. All the power within it was flowing right through me. I could feel myself getting stronger. Like I was on top of the world and could do anything. However, that didn't last long. Once I started thinking about what I wanted most the cube started to feel different almost like it was weighing me down and pulling me into a trance-like state of being. Not knowing what was happening to me, I let go of the cube and was left with my mind being thrown all over the place. I… there are moments that I have no real recollection of what transpired" Akagi continued in her explanation.
"What do you mean you have no recollection? Like you forgot?" Sora asked, paying close attention to everything the girl was saying.
"More like I lost a sense of what was going on around me. But at the same time… it was still all me. I still acted against the Sakura Empire and collaborated with the Sirens on a level that is undoubtedly treason. I put not only my family in danger but also my friends… my home. I take full responsibility for my actions…"
"As you should, Akagi. And while there is a bit of blame that lies with you… it also lies with me" Nagato stated while jumping in on the conversation.
"Lady Nagato?"
This was repeated by many of the girls in the room.
"I knew that Amagi was hurt and suffering for so long. I tried to help find a way to heal her but in truth… I should have done more. Including not aligning myself and the Sakura Empire with the Sirens. The enemy working to defeat humanity and take over this world. Things should have been different. I should have been a better leader…" the young girl said while reflecting upon herself.
"You're not the only one of the same mind."
Looking at who said that the girls and Sora were met with Prinz Eugen who had stood up and had a down-written expression on her face. Gone was the flirty and flashy girl and now stood someone who looked to have regret on her face.
"There were many of us within the Iron Blood who over time began to realize just what kind of predicament we had found ourselves involved in. Working with the Sirens to gain power and study how to manipulate their own technology against them… it wasn't until recently that plans were set to be in motion to start distancing from the Sirens and find a way to strike back at them."
Z23 who was also sitting in the council room let her head move down slightly. She had been one of the girls who was aware of the complex movements within the Iron Blood.
"Prinz Eugen, while I'm not one to barge into others' methods or plans of operations. Is it all right for you to indulge us in this kind of information? Won't your superiors become upset with you for telling us this?" Hood asked the white-haired girl.
Offering a small smile, the Iron Blood kansen elaborated on her situation to the blonde.
"Normally, yes. However, I've been given full authority to tell you this. Bismarck also sends her regards, Hood. She would also like to… talk with you if that would be all right?" Prinz Eugen stated to the Royal Navy girl.
"Bismarck? Wait, does that mean- "
"Yes. We've received word that a fleet of Iron Blood girls will be arriving here soon. Along with representatives from the Sardegna Empire and Vichya Dominion are on their way as we speak" Nagato spoke up.
"Oh? How intriguing! It appears we'll soon be joined by others as well" Queen Elizabeth said while also standing up.
"I take it others from Azur Lane are in contact with you?" Mikasa asked the Queen.
"Correct. Before we helped engage in combat, I asked Warspite to send an alert to the Iris Libre about what exactly was transpiring here. They said they would be on high alert and ready to join in if needed."
"Hmm. It'll be great to see Richelieu again" Shinano said from her side of the room.
"It'll also be interesting to see her, and Jean Bart interact. They haven't been in contact since the split, have they?" Kashino added.
"No, they have not. It will also be something else to see Littorio and Vittorio" Illustrious pondered for everyone to hear.
Those who were familiar with the green-haired woman knew what was coming. Except for Sora whose mind was focused elsewhere. Primarily toward the story being told by the brown-haired kitsune who had a stricken look to be considering many things.
"I see, well then, back to the topic at hand. Akagi, is there anything else you could share with us?" Illustrious asked the kitsune woman.
"There… there was something else that happened while I was under the dark cube's influence."
Everyone was now paying attention to what the girl had to say.
"While I was power hungry, I could start to feel that something was off. It happened several times and when it did I… it's hard to explain but it honestly felt like I was acting against myself" Akagi tried explaining.
Confused looks were spread across the room. Except for a certain someone. And he was starting to realize what the girl was describing.
"Akagi, did you feel… angry?"
"Huh? Angry? I mean, of course, I was. I believed that I had the power to save my dear sister but- "
"Did you also feel lost? Sad even?" Sora asked, having abruptly stopped what she was saying.
"…Yes."
Now that she thought about it, her emotions were everywhere. She recalled one moment when she felt anger flowing through her and at everyone due to her thinking that they were holding her back from saving Amagi. And another time she remembered feeling a wave of confusion and sadness overwhelm her. It didn't make any sense now that she thought about it.
"Then, I know what happened to you," Sora said earning everyone's attention.
"Sora? What do you mean?" Wales asked, becoming even more invested in what was happening.
Looking down at his hands and then over at Akagi who had a mixed expression on her face. She was also very curious to know what exactly had happened to her. Taking another second to gather his thoughts and come up with explanations for the things he was about to say, Sora was ready.
"Akagi, you basically had darkness try to corrupt you."
Processing what she just heard, Akagi wanted to question the boy about what he said but knew that she was already in hot water and decided to stay quiet on the matter. Plus, it calmed her down to feel her tails be entangled by Kaga's tails since she was sitting next to her staying quiet as well. Followed by feeling a hand placed on her shoulder. Without even needing to look back, she knew that it was Amagi who she could feel making her feel better.
"From what I'm understanding without seeing the dark cube, there was some kind of power within it that was not only giving you power, but it was also corrupting you with darkness. Making you lose yourself and leave your heart open" Sora stated loud enough for everyone to hear.
"What do you mean the heart?" Zuikaku said, drawing the boy's attention.
"The heart is not like what you're thinking. It's more like the light inside of you that makes you who you are" Sora said to the audience.
This just made everyone look at him strangely before causing him to sigh. It was always difficult to explain just what the heart was and in truth, he still wasn't sure about everything. He'd only gotten a better idea of it after gathering all of the Ansem reports throughout his journey and learning from the mad scientist about the heart and how complex it really is to understand.
"So…" Hearing someone start to talk, Sora whipped his head around to find none other than Takao who was trying to understand what he was getting at.
"The heart that you are referring to is something within us, and it does not correlate with the actual heart?"
"Right. Another way to think about it is by considering the light within you that pushes you forward" Sora elaborated.
It would be another moment of quietness as all the girls were doing their best to wrap their heads around the idea and concept of what the spiky-haired boy was describing. And they thought understanding how a Wisdom Cube worked was complicated.
"Then, is Akagi okay now?" Shoukaku asked, drawing her attention to the brown-haired girl.
"Akagi? How do you feel now?" Sora questioned her.
Bringing a hand close to her heart, Akagi had a mixed expression on her face.
"I don't feel all that different. But…"
"Hm?"
"It's almost like I could feel that my powers are… different. If that makes any sense?"
The Sakura Empire girls were all looking at her with cautious expressions. It was still a fact that she had gone behind everyone's backs and made an extremely dangerous deal with the Sirens. One that could have hurt them greatly was it not for Sora and Azur Lane's help.
"I think I might know exactly what you're talking about."
A few of the girls' heads tilted to the side and leaned forward in their seats to what Sora had to say.
"Now, this is just a bit of a guess, but I think the dark cube not only made you stronger, but it also gave you the influence of darkness" Sora explained.
"Darkness… so, I'm corrupted. Bound to turn into an enemy" Akagi weakly said which caused Kaga and Amagi to look worried.
"Akagi…"
"No."
Everyone looked at Sora now.
"The opposite actually. One of my best friends was also influenced by the darkness. He even tried to kill me at one point."
Eyes went wide and several girls like Atago couldn't help but be startled by how nonchalantly Sora said that.
"But over time, he realized his mistake and felt really bad about what he had done. He knew that it would be difficult to fix what he had done and even more challenging to overcome the darkness. However, he wasn't alone in his journey and knew that everyone was cheering him on to be better. That helped him to start making a difference and take responsibility for the dark power that lay in his heart now. And he did it. He beat the darkness."
Sora couldn't help but have a bright smile on his face while recalling the journey that Riku went through to seek redemption for his mistakes. Along with where he now stood today in that he was a Keyblade Master. Making everyone including him proud of the silver-haired boy's actions.
"But how? Wasn't he scared that he would fail and be lost to this darkness?" Akagi asked, unconsciously grabbing her arm.
"Yes. He was. But there was one thing pushing him to conquer the darkness in his heart and that was his friends. Everyone believed in him. It took some time along with a lot of challenges along the way but now he has mastered that darkness and uses it to fight with the light. An equal balance to protect what he cares for."
Akagi was unable to say anything now and could only nod her head. The same could be said for everyone else listening to the boy's words.
"It seems Project Oroshi is more dangerous than we initially thought" Mikasa stated, bringing the original topic to 1hand.
"And you guys said that you had taken the dark cube into lockdown or put it somewhere to be analyzed?" Sora asked.
"Yes. Until we make sure that there's no radiation or anything dangerous coming off the cube, then we'll keep it locked away."
"I see, then I don't have anything else to say at the moment."
"All right then, now, we can discuss- "
"W-Wait! Lady Nagato" Akagi called out to the young leader.
Moving her gaze over to the kitsune girl, Nagato knew that Akagi was already in the hot seat and repercussions were to be announced. She had also made a mistake. One that she would need to fix by herself.
"Yes, Akagi. What would you like to discuss?"
Standing up from where she was sitting, the brown-haired girl was now looking into Sora's blue eyes while doing something that no one expected. She bowed in front of the boy.
"Sora. Please. I know that we have not seen eye-to-eye or that I haven't exactly come off as the friendliest… I know for a fact that I have a lot to make up for. And that I will accept any responsibility for my actions. But… Please, I ask you to help me with this power. I just got back my sister… and now my life is changing due to my decisions. I don't know what- "
"Of course, I'll help!" Sora exclaimed.
"But I'll do whatever it takes to… Wait. What? What did you say?"
"I said I'll help."
Akagi was stunned. That quick of a response.
"But aren't you afraid that I might lash out and betray you?" Akagi asked, knowing that right now she considered herself broken and carrying many mistakes on her back.
"No, I don't think you would do something like that. You already have set your heart to know what you want. And that is to be with your sisters again. But to do that you're going to have to overcome many challenges along the way" Sora replied while folding his hands behind his head and wearing a casual smile on his face.
Seeing the boy's smile made something start to appear deep within Akagi's heart. Almost as if… her heart rate started to increase, and her breathing was beginning to hasten. She felt… warm. Having the boy keep his eyes on her and no one else was a feeling she did not want to ever let go of. It also didn't help that she could feel her eyes start to get wet which caused her to blink away the water.
"Besides, everyone needs a little help once in a while. Some things are too much to handle on your own. And while mastering this newfound power of yours is going to be something that you have to do on your own. It's okay to ask for help. No matter what happens, I'll always be there to help my friends!" Sora proclaimed for everyone to hear.
"Friends… Do you consider me a friend? Even though- "
"Yep! We might have started off on the wrong foot, but that doesn't matter. Sometimes, the best friendships start rocky but soon turn into something amazing."
Akagi couldn't help but just close her eyes and ponder what she was hearing. It was also noticeable to the others that she had a smile on her face.
Noticing that Akagi was now taking a different approach to everything that was happening to her, Nagato seemed content and even more thankful to the Keyblade wielder.
"It seems that we've reached a better understanding of everything that's transpired here today. Sora."
"Yes, Lady Nagato?"
Offering the boy, a smile while reaching for something that looked to be a tablet. She figured that he could use some rest.
"We have been able to discuss much here and there is still much to get through. But for now, I ask that you go ahead and take a load off."
"I'm not sure I follow?"
"Sora, basically she means that we're going to be discussing more about how our factions will work together now that the Red Axis is breaking apart by having the Sakura Empire and Iron Blood disbanding from the Sirens. And frankly, it's going to be a long talk. So, why don't you go get some fresh air? It'll be a bit before anything interesting happens" Enterprise stated to the boy while earning a few chuckles at her explanation.
"Are you sure? I mean- "
"We are sure, Sora. You've helped us in so many ways. Besides, the other factions won't be here for a bit so we will have to wait a bit" Mikasa explained.
Wanting to say that he didn't mind waiting, Sora knew that he wasn't going to understand everything that was going to be talked about. Hence, he decided to take the offer and happily nodded to the girls before excusing himself from the council room. But he missed seeing the brown-haired kitsune girl stand up from her seat and watch the boy's every move until he was now out of the building. Her eyes were still glued to where he was last and had something begin to appear in her irises. It looked quite similar to hearts in her eyes.
"He certainly has a way with words, doesn't he~?" Prinz Eugen said, leaning back in her seat and biting her lip.
"Tell me about it…" Wales added while looking at the door that Sora went through.
Coughing into her fist while also having her own thoughts about the spiky-haired boy, Queen Elizabeth wanted to bring the conversation back to important matters. Not that Sora wasn't an important matter mind you.
"Now then, we have much to discuss but for now I ask that we put anything involving Sora on hold. At least until the other factions have joined us. They have much to catch up on" Queen Elizabeth announced to which everyone agreed.
The discussion regarding the future of Azur Lane would now begin.
Standing outside the council room, Sora was bombarded with many thoughts running through his head. However, one thought that loudly made itself apparent was the sound of his stomach crying out in pain.
"Ahaha… Yeah, it's been a minute since I last ate. I wonder what they might have here?"
Making his way down the road leading away from the council building, Sora made sure to memorize the place before continuing inward to the island where most of the shops were located. He had noticed many stalls when he first arrived on the island. The boy was hungry and figured he could try out some of the stalls.
Spending a few minutes walking along the streets and waving at ship girls who either shyly waved at him or greeted him, he realized how drastic a change had taken place compared to when he first appeared. Everyone was either wary or scared of him but now the girls were still a bit shy and curious about him, but they now knew who he was.
After spending a few more minutes walking around the place, the spiky-haired boy now found himself standing in the area where all the stalls were, and boy was it packed. Many of the girls were hanging around the area almost as if a big fight hadn't happened at all. Save for a few stalls that looked to be under construction probably from an attack hitting the place.
Scanning the various stalls and seeing what food was being offered, Sora decided that it was becoming harder and harder to pick just one stall to visit. So, not knowing what to do, the boy decided to do the one thing that he excelled at. Following his heart… or better yet his stomach.
Sniffing the delicious foods all around him, he found that his body was moving on its own and taking him to wherever his body wanted it to go. Rather than try to fight the sensation, he just let things proceed onward.
Suddenly, he felt his feet stop while also smelling something amazing. Opening his eyes, Sora was met with a strange yet delicious sight in front of him.
There sitting on trays and all donning various-looking sauces and spices were strange-looking ball-shaped foods. The boy couldn't help his curiosity and got up close to the food before someone called out to him.
"Oh! It's you!"
Turning to look at who called him, Sora was now face-to-face with another girl that he did not recognize as in truth he had only truly met a handful of the girls on the Sakura Empire side.
For further insight, this girl had a white skirt-like dress that stopped right above the middle of her thigh followed by white boots that went all the way up to the bottom of her knee. A white decorated jacket was also draped over her shoulders and tied with a red ribbon around her neck. She also had long black hair that reached to the middle of her back with what appeared to be two horns on the side of her head. There was also a flower on her left horn and a small bow on her right giving her an elegant look.
Letting one hand scratch the back of his head, Sora put on a friendly smile while getting to work on making this girl a new friend of his.
"Um… I'm sorry. I don't think we've officially met. Or if we did it was only briefly."
"No, no. Don't worry about that. We haven't met yet. I just heard about you from all my friends and then saw you from a distance while the Siren invasion was going on" the girl with horns replied.
"Ah. Right, well, why don't we do this in the correct order? My name is Sora."
"I'm Hiei. Battlecruiser of the Sakura Empire. It's so nice to finally meet you, Sora."
With introductions out of the way, the Keyblade wielder got straight down into business.
"So, Hiei, what are you selling here? The food smells delicious!"
"Haha! You must have a great nose to smell the Takoyaki from a distance then."
"Takoyaki? What's that?" the brown-spiky-haired boy asked while tilting his head and giving the food another look.
Wide-eyed at what she was hearing, Hiei's thought process shifted from surprised to excited as she would now get to give a cooking lesson.
"Well, Sora, have I got an explanation for you! Takoyaki is a staple Japanese dish that is also commonly referred to as octopus balls."
"Heh. That's a neat name."
"Mm-hm. The dish is basically small golden balls of batter filled with octopus tentacles, pickled ginger, spring onion, and fried tempura bits. Of course, this is just one way of cooking Takoyaki as everyone has their own style" Hiei reiterated to the otherworldly boy.
"Of course."
"And this Takoyaki is topped with mayonnaise, custom sauce, nori, and bonito flakes to finish it off."
"Wow… the way you described it is making it all the more appetizing!"
Giggling at Sora's comment, Hiei lifted her hand and gestured to the closest tray of food.
"Why don't you try one then?"
Sora bit his lip as an important thought came to mind. Did they accept Munny in this world? This was the first time he pondered the idea. He would have to ask for one of the girls' help with this but for now, he would not cause any trouble to Hiei.
"I-I'm sorry. I don't exactly have any err… money on me."
"Oh, don't you worry about that. Consider this on the house!"
"But I couldn't. You worked so hard on these" Sora tried retorting but was countered.
"Nonsense, Sora. I'm quite enjoying your company and it's fun to talk about food to someone who has never tried this dish in particular before" Hiei cheerfully said.
Feeling like he was now stuck in a good situation, Sora caved in and grabbed a piece of the Takoyaki tray, and took a bite of the foreign food. His taste buds were met with an exciting and new flavorful dish. The last time he tasted food this amazing was back in Twilight Town while cooking with little chef.
"Whoa! This is amazing!"
"I'm glad to hear that! I was worried for a second there" Hiei weakly stated.
Making sure to not talk with his mouth full, Sora finished the piece of food before responding to the girl's comment.
"Why would you think that? The food was great!"
"Oh, you know how it is with self-criticism."
"I totally get where you're coming from. When I started cooking, I was worried that anybody who tried my food would end up with stomach problems or worse" Sora said while recalling the first few times he cooked and ended up throwing food out of his hands or almost causing a fire in the kitchen. Or another time he was worried that he gave stomach problems to Donald and Goofy.
Flashbacks to him getting ready to summon his Keyblade to cast Water on one of the pans being engulfed in flames even with nothing in it. But thanks to little chef for guiding him around the kitchen, he was much more experienced and knew what safety precautions to follow.
Now giggling at Sora's tale, Hiei also wanted to share a story of similar circumstances.
"One time while I was trying to get a fish dinner ready for me and my friends, I ended up using brown sugar instead of a brown spice that I had planned to originally use on the food. You can probably guess how that went" Hiei explained, having a shaken look on her face at remembering the incident.
"Hehe. That must have been an unforgettable moment."
"It really was. I almost stopped cooking after that incident as ridiculous as that sounds."
"That would have been devastating" Sora quietly commented to Hiei.
"Mm. But thanks to my friends, I was able to learn from my mistakes and started picking up on cooking and learning to be better."
Nodding his head, Sora suddenly remembered something that he was told when he got into cooking.
"Yep. It reminds me of a quote that one of my friends told me as he was the one who helped teach me to cook."
"What was the quote?" Hiei asked, growing interested.
Remembering the time that he was in the kitchen and feeling down about his cooking not coming out well. Little chef pulled out a whiteboard and marker and wrote down the quote that's been with him ever since.
"Anyone can cook."
Hiei was startled by the quote. Something so simple yet… inspiring all at the same time.
"Huh… that's definitely a quote."
"I know, right? I didn't pay it much mind at first but as time passed and I continued to cook more that quote sat home with me."
Before Hiei could say anything else, she peered behind Sora to see a line of girls waiting patiently behind the boy. Seeing the dark-haired girl's surprised expression, the boy turned around and flinched when he saw everyone behind him. So many girls that he hadn't met yet were all quietly watching him or offering him a friendly smile.
"Uh… Hi? Am I taking up the line?" Sora awkwardly asked.
"No, no. We don't mind. You two looked to be having a lovely conversation" one girl with turquoise hair and cat ears replied.
"Aaah! How embarrassing! Why didn't you say anything sooner, Aoba?" Hiei questioned the girl now identified as Aoba.
"None of us wanted to interrupt you two" Aoba responded while gesturing to all the other girls behind her who simply nodded their heads.
"Haha, sorry for holding the line. I'll be going now." Sora stated and then looked over at Hiei. "It was really great to meet and talk with you Hiei. I hope we'll get the chance to talk more later."
"Same here! I had a whole lot of fun talking with you. Time seemed to just pass by."
"Too fast if you ask me. Well, I'll be going now. Thank you for the food!"
"You're welcome! Come back anytime."
Sora also turned to face the girls waiting in line and apologized once again.
"Sorry for holding the line. I hope you guys enjoy the food. It's really amazing! Hiei is an amazing chef!" Sora exclaimed for everyone to hear.
This caused the girl in question to feel her cheeks warm up at the loud and supportive praise.
"Anyway, see you, Hiei!" Sora said while beginning to walk away and offering a wave to the girl.
"Hm. Bye Sora. Hope we can talk again soon!"
Seeing the boy's form get further away from the stall, Aoba was now next in line and couldn't help the giant smirk on her face as she greeted her friend with a large smirk on her face and asked Hiei a random question.
"So, when are you two going on a date now?"
"Aoba!" Hiei shouted.
Walking along the road with his hands behind his head, Sora wondered when the other factions would arrive and get the discussions moving forward since they probably had a whole lot to talk about. This also led him to think about everything that's transpired while being in this world.
Appearing out in the middle of the ocean followed by his first encounter with the ship girls and learning more about this world and how it is currently facing an enemy that has caused the different factions to split apart. Followed by being a formidable enemy with abilities and weapons that he had no clue about, such as being able to harness darkness and imbue someone with that power. But the one thing he was aware of was that the Sirens were in some way working with the Heartless.
That part alone was enough for the boy to consider the situation quite dire. Plus, who knows how long the Heartless had been in this world. Just thinking about what the Sirens would want with the Heartless left a bad taste in Sora's mouth. He'd have to get to the bottom of this. And… he would need some help to do that.
He already knew that many if not all the girls would jump at the chance to help him. But he would still ask the next time the topic came up which would probably be when the other factions arrived. But until then, the Keyblade wielder continued to walk along the road while also shifting his thoughts to something that he hadn't been able to do so as of late. His friends.
Slowing down and standing next to a small pond with various fish swimming around the body of water, Sora began to imagine his friends.
His imagination started kicking in which got him to think that Riku and Kairi were standing next to the water while the two of them were pointing to the different colored fish. Actually, it was Kairi who was leaning over and pointing at the fish while Riku was standing on the side with his arms crossed in front of him laughing at the redhead's excitement and curiosity. The sight of those two made the boy smile even if he knew they weren't really there.
Next, the boy turned to look over to the side and noticed what appeared to be a somewhat medium-sized statue of a fox on a pedestal. However, his imagination went to work and he imagined more of his best friends. This time it was Donald and Goofy. The two were striking poses right next to the statue almost like they were getting ready to take a picture. The sight of the two of them laughing and looking like they were having fun forced the boy to look down at his feet.
Even if they weren't really here that didn't matter. They were still with him. In his heart.
Deciding to look off to the side, Sora spotted a fairly large cherry blossom tree and figured he could sit down and relax for a bit. The weather was nice with clear skies and a small breeze that made everything just right.
Planting himself next to the tree, he began to realize how comfortable the spot was and could start to feel his mind wander. The calm atmosphere began to work its wonder which let him slowly close his eyes until in the next instance, he was now passed out. His last thoughts were that he was extremely comfortable.
Feeling that the tree proved to be very comfortable, Sora began to turn his head to the side and felt that his face was melting into the tree, and… it felt soft? Did trees ever feel that way?
Pulling himself out of his state of sleep, the spiky-haired boy started opening his eyes and had to squint at the bright light infecting his sight. However, once he was now attuned to the sun, he turned his head around and saw something that was definitely not a tree. It was a leg. Someone else's leg.
Throwing his head up, Sora was met with something completely unexpected.
"S-Shinano!?"
Snapping out of her slumber, the silver-haired girl with fox ears looked down at the boy and had a friendly smile on her face.
"Greetings… Sora. I hope you had a good nap."
"Wh-What are you doing here? I thought you were still at the meeting? And why am I… on your lap?" Sora asked, moving his head to look down and realize just where he was now, and it certainly was not on the tree.
He realized that he had his head on Shinano's lap right now along with one of her hands resting on his chest. That would explain why he felt something soft. And all the more reason to jump up.
"Aaah! I'm sor- "
"Sora."
Gulping while still having his head on the girl's lap, Sora worriedly answered.
"Yes…?"
"It's all right… I'm the one who moved you from sleeping on the tree" Shinano calmly said.
"Oh… Um. Why?"
Looking down at the boy, Shinano brought her hand up to the boy's face and laid it gently on his head.
"Because… it's the least I could do. You've done so much. Especially for me…"
"Could you explain a bit more?"
A smile now appeared on her face while one of her ears perked up right.
"Not only did you help us fight back the Sirens and the Heartless who have never appeared here before. Along with managing to help the Sakura Empire see the true enemy and how we were so close to ending up in a situation that… would have resulted in us losing. But… you were able to save my friends… my family… my home."
Waving his free hand that was out in the open, Sora responded to the girl's words.
"I didn't do much. It was all thanks to you guys. Everyone managed to stick together to make a real change. Fighting back the Sirens and coming together to talk about what's to come next. That was all you."
"And yet… you still stepped in to help even after everyone treated you harshly."
"I wouldn't say that. I've had rougher encounters with new people. Plus, this was one of the first times most of the girls had ever seen a boy. It must have been a… scary experience. Haha!" Sora replied while recalling all the shocked reactions to him both in Azur Lane and the Sakura Empire.
"Hm-hm. You're right about that… However, no matter what you say about not contributing much to saving us. I along with everyone else owes you so much."
Letting out a humming sound, Sora wanted to tell her that she didn't owe him anything, but something did pop into his mind. You could call it selfishness, but one idea did seem really intriguing.
"…Actually, there is something I would like. Is that all right with you?" Sora asked the silver-haired girl.
Nodding her head, Shinano would greatly approve of anything he would ask for.
"Of course, whatever it is that you would like I will do my best to help you achieve it. Even if… I need to offer myself. If you'll have me?" Shinano said, showing a hint of emotion in the last thing she said.
"Great! Then, do you know where I could find a kitchen?"
"I'll do my best to give you… wait. What did you say, Sora?"
"Uh… I asked if you knew where I could find a kitchen? That's what I would like" the spiky-haired boy responded while tilting his head in confusion.
"O-Oh! I'm sorry… Yes, I do know where you could use a kitchen" Shinano confirmed, clearly misunderstanding the situation, and cursing her imagination for thinking of something… lewd.
"Yes! But maybe we should wait until the other factions get here."
"Sora, the other factions… they are already here."
"Huh! They are? Wait, how long have a been asleep?" the Keyblade wielder questioned while picking himself up.
Beginning to move her legs after the absence of Sora's head on her lap.
"It hasn't been that long… close to about half an hour. The other factions arrived about ten minutes ago and are now at the council room talking with Lady Nagato and the others."
"I see. Then, why are you out here? Wouldn't you be in the council room with everyone?"
Feeling her cheeks start to warm up, Shinano did not want to outright say that the reason that she left the meeting was to catch up with Sora. Hence, she came up with a quick explanation.
"I-I… I was starting to fall asleep and asked if I could go for a walk or find somewhere to nap."
"Hehe. Well, I guess you found somewhere to nap then, huh?" Sora jokingly said to her which got a giggle.
"Yes… I suppose I did. Come, we should go greet the other girls. I'm sure they're eagerly waiting to meet you."
Offering his hand to the silver-haired kitsune, Shinano gladly accepted it.
"Now then, shall we head back to the council room?"
"Yep. Let's go meet them."
And with that, the two began walking to where the other factions were currently located. Followed by Sora starting to ask Shinano more about the Sakura Empire to which she had much to talk about. Moreover, she also decided to unsuspectingly take a step closer to the boy while walking so that it looked like they were really close to each other. Something that made her smile.
After walking for a few minutes back to the council room, Sora had a giant smile on his face after talking with Shinano about the time that he slid down a mountain while escaping from an avalanche with Donald and Goofy on top of the dog's shield.
"But… how did that shield able to hold the three of you up without even breaking or being dented?"
"Hey! What does that mean?" Sora asked the girl while trying to sound serious, but his face betrayed that idea.
Bringing a hand up to her face, Shinano was forcing herself to stifle a fit of laughter.
"Oh, dear Sora, I mean nothing by that in a negative way… just that your heroic muscles being on top of the shield."
"Haha. It's junior hero actually. I don't think I've achieved the status of true hero yet" Sora replied, recalling what Phil said about him, Donald, and Goofy.
"Says who?"
"My personal trainer."
Before Shinano could ask more about what Sora meant about not being considered a true hero or who his personal trainer was the girl now noticed they were several feet away from entering the council room.
"Hmm… We will have to pick this conversation up later, Sora."
"Right. Anything I should know before I meet these girls?" Sora asked, curious about who was on the other side of the door.
"If it's who I think it is that came here as representatives for the different factions… then you should expect to see Vittorio, Littorio, Jean Bart, and Richelieu."
"Littorio, Vittorio, Jean Bart, and Richelieu. Got it" Sora repeated.
"As for what you should know. Richelieu is a religious follower but from our past experiences, she is a very friendly and lovely girl. Jean Bart, Richelieu's sister, can come off as a bit cold or intimidating but once you get her to open up, she's someone who will have your back no matter what. Vittorio is also a kindhearted girl who strives to be a good leader of her faction. She'll be easy to get along with. As for Littorio…" Shinano suddenly stopped herself.
Worried about the sudden pause, Sora spoke up.
"What about Littorio? Is it something bad?"
Shaking her head, Shinano realized she made the green-haired woman seem like a bad person. Which was entirely wrong.
"Not at all. It's just… she's a bit of a flirt. Along with having a proud personality where she considers herself in high regard. She's also another girl that if you're able to build a strong connection with, she'll do everything it takes to help you."
"That's great to hear! Based on what I'm hearing, I want to become good friends with them now."
"Well then, what are you waiting for?" Shinano asked while nodding her head to the council room door.
Now beyond excited, Sora pulled open the council room door and was expecting the girls to all look his way but was proven wrong when he heard someone talking with grey hair and a red jacket.
"With all due respect, Lady Nagato, the inclusion of these strange monsters, or as you called them, Heartless, should have prompted you to alert us immediately. Project Orochi as it is reported was not only a great risk but undoubtedly proved to the Sirens that they have the makings of a new weapon that could be used against us."
"As we've discussed, we know that by not contacting the rest of the Red Axis, we put ourselves at a great risk" Nagato reiterated.
"Alas, it is a great shame you did not. If I were to have graced the battlefield with my presence, then I could have shown up the entirety of Azur Lane. Along with leaving a certain someone impressed at my accomplishment. Isn't that right, Illustrious?"
Offering a soft look to the woman calling her name, Illustrious couldn't help but sigh.
"Littorio, while your boasting is welcoming. Now is not the time. There are still many factors that we are not fully aware of."
"I agree. For starters, the Sirens and their actions are undoubtedly concerning. Yet, there is another factor at play that we have yet to discuss and that is the strange creatures you all reported seeing" Another girl's voice rang through the council room.
"The Heartless. That's what they are called, Richelieu" Enterprise stated.
"Yes. Thank you, Enterprise. These Heartless have never been seen nor reported in our records. And yet, to hear that so many appeared out of nowhere and working with the Sirens should be our next point of discussion."
"Are you sure about that?"
"Jean Bart?" Queen Elizabeth muttered.
"We have no idea who or what these Heartless are. How do you expect us to start discussing something that we clearly have no idea what we are dealing with."
"Jean…" Richelieu said while staring at her sister. The two of them hadn't exchanged words with each other while being in the same room.
"That is where I regret to inform you that you're incorrect in thinking that way, Jean Bart" Nagato stated to the girl.
"Wrong? How so?"
Noticing someone standing by the entrance, Queen Elizabeth couldn't help the giant smirk on her face which confused Hood, Wales, and Amagi at seeing the young girl's face. However, following where her eyes landed, they also had smiles appear on their faces. Things were about to get interesting.
"The person to help better explain the Heartless. He will be able to enlighten you all more about how dire the situation has become."
"Right… the boy that everyone has mentioned. If he's the one to explain everything, then where is he at? Shouldn't he be here?" Jean Bart questioned everyone.
"He's right behind you" Prinz Eugen bluntly said while leaning on one of her hands and just watching the show about to play out.
Confused by what the white-haired girl meant, Jean Bart turned around and expected to see no one but was in a world of surprise. Now face-to-face with someone she had never met before, Jean Bart was left aghast.
"Uh…Hi?" Sora replied, now having the spotlight shined on him.
Jean Bart had to blink twice before she took a defensive step back. The other girls who hadn't seen Sora arrive now had amused looks on their faces.
"Y-You're…"
"A sight to be seen" commented one of the girls from the other factions with the distinct feature of having green hair.
Another one of the girls with orange-like hair took a step toward the boy and began to observe and take in his appearance.
"You are… Sora, correct?"
"Yeah. That's my name."
Nagato began to beckon to the boy as proper introductions would be needed.
"Sora, may I introduce you to Jean Bart member of the Vichya Dominion and Red Axis."
Jean Bart merely nodded her head while staring back at Sora. Almost like she was sizing him up.
"Next, I would like to introduce Vittorio Veneto and Littorio. Members of the Sardegna Empire who are also part of the Red Axis."
Vittorio began to offer an elegant bow while Littorio merely winked at the spiky-haired boy.
"*Ahem* And Sora, may I introduce to you, the Cardinal of the Iris Libre, Richelieu. Member of Azur Lane" Queen Elizabeth said while getting everyone's attention.
The girl now known as Richelieu simply nodded her head while offering a friendly smile to which Sora returned one of his own.
Sora on the other hand was taking in the girls' appearance. Jean Bart had two different shoes on with one being up to her knee and the other stopping above her ankle which sported a patterned thigh-high sock. She was also wearing short shorts with a belt and a tank top that had a belt wrapped around her chest and a jacket covering her arms. The girl also had grey hair that was tied into a ponytail. But above all, she was still eyeing the boy closely.
The next girl he noticed was the one he heard talking when he entered the council room. She had long grey hair that went down to her legs while wearing what appeared to be a red and black skirt dress. He could have been wrong about that as he was just going off a glance. It also appeared that she had a red and black cape wrapped around her shoulders with black boots that went up to her knees. She also had white gloves on, and a sword holstered at her side while smiling at the boy.
However, the next girl certainly caught his eye due to her having a flashy look on her face while winking at the boy. She had long green hair that went past her shoulders white wearing a white militarized top and a black jacket that included a mixed dark green and black cape. She also had black tights that covered her legs along with white boots engraved with gold patterns just short of her knee. There also appeared to be a pointy headband on her head along with a streak of red in her hair. Moreover, once Sora was done analyzing the girl's appearance, he moved his gaze to her eyes and noticed that she was looking right at him with a… strange look on her face. Something akin to how Prinz Eugen peered toward him before but now the green-haired girl pulled a rose out of nowhere and tucked it on her shirt.
And finally, the last girl to notice was the one that asked him for his name. She had orange hair that when down her back while also wearing a crown on her head. She was wearing boots that went slightly above her ankles while having red tights that went up to her thighs. Her attire consisted of a white and red shirt that reminded him of some of the princess dresses that he saw throughout his adventures. She also had black gloves on while smiling warmly at him.
"Hello! It's nice to meet you all" Sora greeted.
"Hmm. I must say, hearing everyone talking about the hero who managed to not only defeat the new mysterious threat but bring the different factions together. It's making me a bit nervous to be in your presence" Vittorio said while not meaning any offense in what she said.
"Come now, Vittorio, there's no need to be nervous. I can see that Sora here has qualities that are reminiscent of my own. Perhaps one day he shall become closer to being my equal? What say you, Sora?" Littorio asked the boy who was absolutely lost.
"Uh… yes?"
"Excellent! See! Nothing to worry about. Though I am curious, for being the hero of the battle I don't see you carrying anything superficial or impressive. Is there a weapon you have stored that helped you to take the spotlight?"
With his mouth open from still being confused about the comment given by Littorio, Sora decided to show off his weapon that as she put it "helped him take the spotlight."
In a flash of blue light, the Keyblade appeared and caused those who had never seen the weapon to jump up in their seats. Along with many questions flooding their heads.
"But how?"
"Whoa…"
"How did he do that?"
"Is he a magician? Can he do any other tricks?"
"Is he a kansen? Does that mean he can summon a ship?"
"Why is it a giant key?"
"Someone's house key?"
"Do we know of a ship that has the name Sora?"
So many more questions were being blurted out for everyone to consider all while Sora couldn't help but let out a sigh.
'Whenever I traveled through the different worlds, no one ever really criticized my Keyblade. Did they just not say anything?' the boy thought to himself.
However, he was dragged out of his thoughts when he saw Richelieu start to walk toward him. This prompted everyone to stop their chatter and watch as the Cardinal of Iris Libre walked up to the spiky-haired boy. Sora on his part didn't know what was going on but decided to see how things played out.
Now with Richelieu standing in front of the Keyblade wielder, she did something nobody expected. Not even Littorio or Prinz Eugen, who seemed the most forward in their intentions, were prepared for what was about to transpire.
The orange-haired girl knelt on one knee before taking Sora's free hand into her own and began speaking with such conviction.
"Sora…as I am the one who currently guides the Iris Libre, I vow to offer myself in any way possible to not only protect and support you for as long as I breathe. But give my all to you and the divine light residing within you that seeks to purge this world of the darkness at bay. May your power guide us all to a better tomorrow."
…
…
…
The entire council room went silent to the point that if there were crickets making noise even they would be silent.
And then everything went to chaos with all the girls shouting out in shock.
"WHAAAAAAATTT!"
"Richelieu!" Jean Bart called out from the side while being taken back by her sister's action.
"What the hell? She's more daring than I thought. Dammit. I'll have to strike soon" Prinz Eugen muttered while biting her lip.
"Oho? It seems I'll be having a competition to push him in the right direction to make him my equal" Littorio said while crossing her arms and sporting a smirk.
"T-T-That's not fair!" Zuikaku shouted while having her face match her dress again.
"Zuikaku… it seems your big sis is going to have to put in some overtime to help you" Shoukaku stated while putting on a determined face.
"T-To do something of that magnitude!" Takao practically yelled.
"My, my it seems I'll have to be going on the offensive now…" Atago muttered to herself.
"Did I hear that right? My head must be playing tricks on me…" Wales said while checking her temperature and seeing if she was hallucinating.
"I'll say… the Cardinal certainly managed to surprise us all. But I won't let that stop me…" Hood commented while playing with her gloves.
"Maybe she meant that in a different meaning? She had to… right?" Enterprise questioned Belfast who was sitting near her while sporting red-tinted cheeks.
"Perhaps so. The Cardinal does tend to phrase things differently with a religious state of perspective. However, her statement and the degree to do so in front of everyone does force me to investigate more direct measures" Belfast said, beginning to take a sip of her tea.
"What does that mean?" Enterprise asked the white-haired maid who simply smiled back at her.
"A statement that direct and forward…" Queen Elizabeth openly said.
"I never expected Richelieu to be so… meaningful. Perhaps I should take note of her actions" Illustrious stated.
"I… did not foresee something like this happening… why couldn't I see this happening?" Shinano questioned herself while Kashino who was next to her started getting worried at seeing the kitsune confused.
"To do that not only here and now but with everyone watching her…" Mikasa muttered while bringing a hand up to her mouth.
"Oh, my. How direct" Amagi surprisingly commented.
"…" Akagi did not say anything while sporting a downright scary look on her face. The brown-haired kitsune's eyes started glowing red. Forcing Kaga to try and snap her sister out of whatever was going on.
"Akagi! Akagi! Snap out of it. What's wrong?"
Meanwhile, the one who Richelieu had directed her sudden feelings toward was left puzzled and feeling the gears in his brain start to slowly move until his senses came back to him causing everything to function back to normal. Resulting in him opening his mouth to say one thing that described how he was feeling.
"…What?"
Sora was completely lost.
Meanwhile, on another part of the island
Sitting on top of a rock that had a good view of the town housing the Sakura Empire kansens while jotting something down on a piece of paper, the Master of Masters was writing down everything that he had seen transpired. And while it seemed somewhat interesting, his attention was mainly focused on taking note of how Sora's involvement managed to not avert a crisis waiting to happen, but how he was able to restore a heart.
"Once again, you've managed to leave me on the balls of my feet, Sora. You were able to restore that girl's damaged heart. But will there be any consequences? Hmm. Nah. But… Showing up out of nowhere and now playing a role in this world. You really do manage to become the key that connects everyone and everything."
Beginning to finish what he was writing, the Master of Masters took another look down at the town and turned his mind to another matter.
"Also… I'll need to take a look at that cube that was given to the fox girl. Whoever managed to manipulate darkness into that thing surely knows what they are doing."
Taking a second to respond, the Lost Master merely looked down at his hands before continuing.
"Or… someone lent a helping hand…"
The Master of Masters said before looking out to the ocean and just watching the calm and beautiful sight. There was certainly something special about this world. Along with something wrong with it as well.
Either way, both he and Sora were in uncharted territory.
Somewhere unknown...
Within a dark cave that allowed no light to escape sat a girl all by herself while twirling around what appeared to be a black cube. This girl was also wearing minimal clothing and was barefoot while sitting on what appeared to be a glowing rock. However, that rock soon began to move and slithered up to her chest where she appeared to be patting it... in reality, the rock was actually a tentacle. Which now appeared to be connected to something even more strange... the girl.
Suddenly, lights began to appear all around the room offering a better look at the girl and her appearance which immediately gave insight into who she was. Observer Alpha.
Turning her head to the side, Observer now noticed what caused the lights to illuminate the once dark room or rather... whom.
"Heya! I'm back!" yelled a familiar voice.
The person to have now entered the dark area wore a sailor uniform that seemed a bit shorter than usual all while having her long white hair tied into a ponytail and a bright smile on her face. Another distinctive feature of the girl was her glowing yellow eyes. The Siren better known as Purifier.
"I take it you failed in your task?" Observer questioned the girl while still being occupied with her tentacle.
"Geh! It's not my fault you know! Those annoying Azur Lane girls showed up and prevented me from grabbing Sora" Purifier quickly said while maintaining a sly smile.
Out of nowhere, the spot that Observer was sitting at began to move toward Purifier while showing what appeared to be a large glob of tentacles acting like a seat for the Siren.
"We shall let them have this glimmer of hope. Besides, we have other factors to consider now."
"Oh? Like what? I thought our main goal was to capture Sora. Since he's the key or whatnot?" Purifier asked while tilting her head.
"It is. However, I've received word from the Arbiters. There's been a change in plans."
"A change in plans? That's strange. Aren't we leaving a bunch of things unattended?"
Smirking while still examining one of her tentacles, Observer added to the conversation.
"Care to elaborate?" Observer asked the energetic cleaner.
"Well, what about Sora? Are we just going to let him go?"
"No. He is still at the top of the list."
"Then what about the dark cube? Project Otoshi?"
"Project Orochi you mean."
"Yeah, that one."
Rubbing the top of one of her tentacles, Observer held an amused look on her face.
"You do know that not much work went into that project."
"Really? Huh? I did not know that. Had me worried for nothing."
"Shouldn't you have known about the plan to disregard the Wisdom Cube? Is your connection to the network malfunctioning?" Observer asked, narrowing her gaze at Purifier.
Crossing her arms across her chest, Purifier began to think about the question.
"Hmm. Maybe I just ignored it?"
"Or perhaps you need to transfer to another model? I can help with that."
"Ahahah! No thanks! Besides, I'll just go stop by and see one of the Enforcers for a checkup. I'd prefer not to die this time around" Purifier stated while shaking her head.
"Fine then. Anything else?"
"...Yeah, who is the one that's telling the Arbiters about Sora?"
Looking a bit surprised, Observer was a bit surprised by Purifier's question.
"Why so interested in the boy? Did he catch your attention?"
"You bet! He proved to be a bit of a challenge. But then again, I'm not as strong as the Arbiters. Maybe the Enforcers could give me a bit of a challenge? But other than that, I'm just curious. How did you know about him being the key?"
"Because I told her."
Shifting her head to the side, Purifier expected to see another Siren standing there but was met with nothing being there. She looked around the room once more to try and find who just talked but couldn't see anyone. Until... a dark cloud appeared out of nowhere in front of her.
"Whoa! Didn't see you there. Huh. What are you? A new type of invention? A ghost maybe?"
"Oh. You'll find that I'm more than just a ghost."
The dark cloud replied or at least that's what it was looking like to Purifier. Soon, the dark apparition started to take form and contort itself until it now looked to be a dark figure with nothing to its appearance.
"May I introduce you to the one who has been so kind enough to tell us about the key" Observer stated to the white ponytailed girl.
"Strange. What's your name?"
"... My name... is of no importance."
"What!? Really? You're not going to tell me? Observer, did... uh... did you get a name?" Purifier asked.
"Nope. But honestly, I don't care. Names don't matter that much. Besides, we've got a working deal in place and so far, everything said about Sora has rung true."
"Still though, what do I call you then? Or better yet, what are you?"
Taking a second to answer the white-haired girl's question, the dark figure let out a small chuckle before responding.
"I do not need a name to be addressed. But... you could refer to me as... darkness. One of the Thirteen."