A/N: Yep. This is real. It's not over yet. I'm just not ready to let go. I love to entertain – to be able to communicate with you all through this. I feel like part of a large of community. Letting go would silence it forever. Plus, the dream refuses to die. I want to see where it takes me. And I want you to be a part of that dream.

So things are going to change going forward. I'm not going to overdo myself. Trying to get one chapter done in a week took its toll. Instead, I'll be pacing myself. My plan is to work three hours each weekday, no more, no less. A little progress is better than none whatsoever. To compensate, the chapter will be released upon completion (once I make corrections).

I want to thank you again for all your support. And I apologize if you feel like I've been pulling you back and forth through this whole dilemma. Decisions never come easy for me. It's kind of a bad habit of mine. But, I think this choice is absolute. And I hope to stick with it for a long time.

Well, guys. It's time for the final stretch. Enjoy.

ACT III: The Seeker of Darkness

Chapter 63: Journey into the Dark Depths

Returning to Traverse Town was always a strange experience for Sora. To him, it was a place of sojourn – a home base he and his friends revisited when perforce to ruminate on their current situation. But, overtime, and much to Sora's concern, this world had become his new home. The lens that viewed this world through rose colored wonderment had been daubed by inexorable mediocrity.

He had grown so accustomed to the bright neon lights, the Victorian style architecture, and the unblinking stars continuing their interminable staring contest above him. It had become ordinary. Just like his island had, which partially ascribed to him and his friends wanting to leave in the first place. He didn't want Traverse Town to become his new home. But as time continued its forward, immutable march, that prospect of seeing his island again became lost in a hopeless crowd.

To make matters worse, even if Sora did find home, he would be bereft of any joy. It wasn't the same without Riku and Kairi; they were the missing layers that completed the halcyon painting of his island. Without them, the colors would appear dour, deprived of gaiety. Living in that picture meant nothing without them.

As he, Luigi, and Yoshi headed towards Cid, Sora's spirits were lassitude, standing alone, outside a snug log cabin that housed his friends' happiness. He wanted to step inside and laugh with them. But it would only belie the sadness he felt deep inside of himself.

It was only an ephemeral remedy.

Upon meeting up with Cid, Luigi handed him the Labo Piece. He grinned upon feeling its adequate weight within his palm. "Well, well, well. You boys always know how to deliver the goods. Time to put these old bones to work."

Cid cracked his knuckles, producing a loud sound that reverberated throughout the quiet streets, as if avowing his old age to the whole town.

"Ooh, maybe Cid should have that looked at," Yoshi said, wincing.

But Cid wasn't deterred from that sound. To him, age was just a minor inconvenience. "Nonsense. There ain't no doctor that's gonna dictate what I can and can't do. Nobody keeps ol' Cid down! You boys sit back while I do the REAL heavy lifting."

Cid headed for the Accessory Shop to grab his tools, although he always carried the most important one with him: his indefatigable confidence.

"Well, fighting Heartless isn't easy, either," Luigi said, crossing his arms in a childish manner. "A man can only handle so many panic attacks. Right, Sora?" No response. "Sora?"

The two turned to see Sora looking towards the ground with his eyes closes, as a heavy downpour of dejection drizzled on his head.

"Hey, what's wrong?" Luigi asked, concerned.

With a warm glow in his eyes, Yoshi placed an arm around Sora, holding out a sympathetic umbrella to catch the coarse raindrops. "Remember what Luigi said? About no frowning, no sad faces? That rule hasn't changed."

"And those who don't abide to that rule get non-stop tongue lashes from the dino," Luigi said, in playful warning. "He brings mints along in his saddle for just such occasion."

But the duo's lighthearted mood couldn't dissipate the obtrusive, dark cloud. It seemed to be growing wider, covering Luigi and Yoshi in its brooding shadow. Negativity arrogated Sora's ears with sour invectives.

"I don't get it," Sora said, as frustration seeped from his lips. "How can you be so cheerful? We still haven't found Mario. Aren't you worried?"

Luigi sighed. That was one thing he wished was effaced from his mind. But he couldn't become susceptible to Sora's dejected mood – an illness that would become a dilatory in their efforts. "Of course, I am. He's my brother. I want him home just as much as you want your friends back. But do you think worrying is going to do any favors? No. It'll only get in the way of finding him. And that's a big statement coming from me"

"But we've been at it for days," Sora said, implacable towards any encouragement. "You must be frustrated."

"Sure," Luigi said. "A little bit. But that's bound to happen when you're traveling to EVERY single world imaginable." He smiled. "Fortunately, if I ever have a problem, I have you two to look towards for reassurance." He paused, as if had to console the jury in his thoughts. "Well, 'fortunately' might be a subjective word."

"Hey!" Yoshi said, glowering.

A small smirk breached Sora's inexpressive lip. His mood already saw infinitesimal amelioration.

"Oh, I kid," Luigi said. "But see what I mean? If one of us has a problem, the other is gonna help us inspire. C'mon. You inspire us all the time."

Yoshi squeezed his arm tighter around Sora, showing the unconditional support he had for the boy. The pressure was comforting, reminding him that he was in a safe circle. He never had to feel alone. The disheartening drops became lighter on his chest; he never had to inure the pain forever. They would evaporate into a calming, uplifting vapor.

"As long as we here for each other, everything going to be fine," Yoshi said. He licked Sora's cheek. "Sora just have to believe in himself."

"Just believe…" Sora closed his eyes, calming the harangue of inner critics clamoring all at once, like an incongruous choir. Soon, the positive, taciturn voices started speaking out from their reclusive shells, conciliating his depressed mood with encouragement – one of his most defining features

He couldn't lose himself in that somber dross. Eternal disappointment was contingent of quitting, and he couldn't live with that indelible stigma. Never. Riku and Kairi meant too much to him, despite the thick pane of misfortunate that separated them now. Sora had come too far to become errant. If he did, Riku would lose himself to the darkness. And Kairi's bright blue eyes would never absorb the golden sunlight again, like a youthful flower.

He would debar their miserable fate. Every one of his inner voices assented the notion. But one voice spoke out above all others from the concourse. And it wasn't one of his own.

"I believe in you," Kairi said.

Everything went black. His sensations seemed to have become paralyzed by an ineffable force. A beautiful, glowing light filled his vision. Like a magnet, his body was pulled towards it. Yet, fear wasn't trussed around his chest. This light felt comforting, like being wrapped in a swaddling cloth. He accepted the light without pause for deliberation with his thoughts.

He was consumed by the comforting light.

Moments later, he found himself hovering in midair, like a marionette hanging on strings. His moment of peace acceded to confusion. He was staring at what appeared to be the corner of an ornate room – the cobble stoned floor was light green. Glass windows were attached to the wall, illuminating a soft orange glow from outside. In the middle of the room was a single chair and table.

Sitting in the chair was an elderly woman. Her gray hair was wrapped in a bun. She wore a white apron over her purple dress. Her countenance had been etched into a permanent, warm smile, which kept the dreary room alit. Already she had a prepossessing demeanor. It impelled you to walk forward and engage in a cordial conversation with her.

Regardless, Sora hadn't a smattering as to why this was happening. "Where am I?"

"Grandma!" said the voice of a young girl. Soon enough, she appeared, approaching the kind woman with alacrity rolling in her stomach like a bowling ball.

Sora couldn't see the front of the girl, but he noticed she had long red hair and wore a white shirt, with a pink dress underneath it. Wait, Sora thought. Was that….?

"There's my punctual princess," the grandma said, as her radiant smile didn't lose even an infinitesimal amount of luster.

"P…P…P….Punctual?" the girl asked, trying to parrot this new, foreign word.

"It means you're on time for another one of grandma's stories."

"Yes, I am!" the girl said with pride. "Tell me the special story!"

The woman let out a soft chuckle, still retaining that kind demeanor. "Again? Are you sure you don't want to hear about the pokey little puppy?"

"Please," the girl said, cajoling her grandma with wide puppy dog eyes.

"Anything for my princess," the grandma said, chuckling. "Your fondness for this story shows a level of wisdom for someone so young."

Excited, the girl climbed into her grandma's lap, and waited with patient ears for the first sentence to be uttered.

She began: "Long ago, people lived in peace, bathed in the warmth of light. Everyone loved the light. Then people began to fight over it. They wanted to keep it for themselves. And darkness was born in their hearts. The darkness spread, swallowing the light and people's hearts. It covered everything, and the world disappeared. But small fragments of light survived….in the hearts of children. With these fragments of light, children rebuilt the lost world. It's the world we live in now. But the true light sleeps deep within the darkness. That's why the worlds are still scattered, divided from each other."

Sora found himself drawn to the story. Maybe it was relevant to why the Heartless had disrupted the deluge of teeming worlds in the universe. Or maybe the grandma was just efficient at regaling a good story. It reminded him of when his own grandma would tuck him into bed, reading stories about fantastic places that existed in our imaginations. Her voice was soft and soothing – the last sound you heard before deep slumber became a temporary parental figure.

"But someday," the grandma continued, "a door to the innermost darkness will open. And the true light will return. So, listen, child. Even in the deepest darkness, there will always be a light to guide you. Believe in the light, and the darkness will never defeat you. Your heart will shine with its power and push the darkness away."

She brushed the little girl's red hair. "Do you understand, Kairi?"

Sora's assumptions were correct. It was her. This place…was it her original home? Kairi kissed her grandma, crawled off her lap, and ran off to play. Sora tried reaching out to her, but he soon found himself back in Traverse Town, as if had been snapped awake from a sudden dream. His friends were staring at him with a conflation of confusion and worry.

"What the—?" Sora said, startled.

"S-Sora, are you okay?" Yoshi asked.

Sora brushed the front of his hair, moving aside small pieces of hair that hung like pendulums. He took a second to compose himself, reorganizing a strewn of disjointed thoughts. No amount of reasoning could explain his sudden daydream – if one were to give it a proper definition.

"Yeah," Sora said, trying to masquerade his bewilderment with reassurance. "Was a bit lost in my thoughts there. Sorry."

But Yoshi could see the mask start to dangle, revealing the truth. The dinosaur exchanged a concerned look with Luigi. Sora hadn't been himself lately. First, the strange palpitations at Ylisse, now his lackadaisical behavior? There was something misaligned within Sora's usual cordial, upbeat demeanor, and they needed to find the culprit.

But before Luigi could open his mouth, Cid said, "All finished!"

Perhaps this wasn't the time pry the issue wide open. Incommoding Cid could have lasting consequences. Luigi was content with his current gait, after all. He gestured for the two to follow him. Yoshi acquiesced, despite his growing concern for Sora. As they two walked away, Sora remained behind for the moment, with his arms crossed, mulling over the dream.

All he could do was file each image under an index full of question marks. For now, they'd have to remain unanswered. There was no rational explanation. That should be the title for his autobiography on this adventure: "No Rational Explanation." But those questions would continue protruding from within those files.

Was it a dream? No. Maybe he slipped into the reel of Kairi's past. How? She was nowhere near him to initiate such a response.

Or was she?

There was only working theory. A rough draft. Nothing more. But something about the idea resonated with him – gave him hope that despite being comatose, she was still searching for him.

"Kairi…did you call me?" Sora asked, out loud.

"Another job well done, I say," Cid said, wiping the grease of labor off, content. "You should be able to go further now. But I'd be careful if I were you."

Luigi felt a strain of nervous sweat slide down the back of his neck. Careful – an adjective that was a presage for trouble. "Why's that?"

"Sensors show a lot of Heartless ships in the direction you'll be headin'," Cid said, with a grim expression. "Would be wise to keep your eyeballs wide open. Have no time to babysit you myself."

Distress slithered up Luigi's spine like a slug, leaving behind anxious slime that seeped into the bone. Glad he wasn't sugarcoating anything, Luigi thought. He took a small breath, letting those nerves subside, as if serene air dried up the slime. Despite some mishaps, he had been sedulous in flying the ship through danger. They were alive, after all – a truism that he would be maintained with iron focus.

Besides, and this was nothing more than speculation, if this area was teeming with Heartless ships, would it lead them to Bowser's location? Were the flies attracted to the malodorous scent of the beast? It seemed logical, but baseless in fact. Deep down, Luigi both dreaded and pined for his theory to be incontrovertible true – the latter because he wanted to cease the interminable toil Bowser had put them through.

And, maybe, upon the ruins of their victory, Mario would unveil himself from the ruble.

"Just-a-leave it to me," Luigi said, keeping positivity tucked between his sleeves.

"Good," Cid said, appearing reassured. "I might bust yer chops now and then, but I am concerned about your well-being. Those Heartless have taken too much away from me. Sleep ain't gonna get any better if something were to happen to y'all."

Sora smiled. "We appreciate that. You've been a big help to us." His eye trailed off, as the unpleasant memories of his first time in Traverse Town returned to jeer at him. "Even when I had no idea what to do when I first arrived here."

"Forget about it," Cid said, placing a commiserative hand on Sora's shoulder. "Compassionate is what separates us from those ugly ink stains called Heartless. And, right now, if we never want to see their mugs again, sticking together is our best option. It's what make us human: something those hollow heads can never understand."

Cid ameliorated Sora's mood by sweeping the dust of sadness away, where it drifted into the dark, yet wonderous sky. Sora was reminded that he had made so many friends throughout his journey, despite moments where things felt insuperable. They were small pieces in a shimmering bracelet, growing more radiant by the second. Somehow, it was snug on his wrist, making him feel secure.

Being worried about the future was just illusion. He could see past the smoke and mirrors. Every would be fine. Although, given the concerned expression on Luigi and Yoshi's faces, they seem to be vacillated in that sentiment.

"You're right!" Sora said, smiling. "Things have changed for the better ever since meeting everyone. I know I'll get by. I have to."

After giving Sora an encouraging pat on the shoulder, Cid grinned. "Atta boy! Keep at it! Now get going before I change my mind and break the ship apart. Lord knows you've already done a good job banging it up yourselves."

"But that wasn't my fault!" Luigi said, insulted.

But Cid responded with a vicious glare that made even a simple remonstrance invalid. Luigi felt himself sinking within a capsized boat. On fire.

Sora leaned into Luigi with a reproving expression. "Go on. Keep poking the bear."

"So my landing needs work," Luigi said, in a nervous tone. "Mistakes need to be learned from, right? Let's go, guys."

Luigi sprinted towards the ship with the blinding speed of a cheetah. After exchanging their good-byes, Sora and Yoshi left to catch up with him. Cid watched them leave until they were no longer in view. A smirk crawled onto his lips. They were an unusual group but were efficient in fighting against the Heartless. The tireless efforts were commendable.

Cid was alone. The air was still, standing pensive with Cid in thought. Despite his respect for them, he couldn't help but be replete with worry. He had experienced loss firsthand – horrible memories that remained indelible like a painful incision. People and places he loved had become nothing more than a memory – they would no longer be present. He could never feel the aura of their warmth and gaiety again.

Memory could never breathe. And he hoped Sora and his friends own breath wouldn't suffocate before the darkness.

"Come back alive."

Luigi decided not to pursue Sora's uncharacteristic behavior now. His mind had acceded to focusing on their journey through the forthcoming siege of Heartless. The thought entreated him above all else, and was impossible to archive into a bin for the moment. It took precedence. Besides, he wanted his mind to be clear of any distractions when confronting Sora.

So the four took off into space, following the new coordinates installed. The usual, joyful voices that clamored throughout the cockpit were obeisant towards silence. Cid's warning had introduced a tablespoon of anxiety into the concoction. Especially Luigi, who took a spoon full. Only the consistent beeping from the radar debased the proud silence.

They traveled for a long period of time through space, in the amiable presence of the homogeneous stars. But the feeling of ardor didn't last long. The dark vastness of space was soon enveloped in an ominous light purple. Stars became reticent, as they withdrew themselves from space.

The Labo Ship was alone in a threatening mass. Salvation would turn a deaf ear towards any supplication.

Tensions froze over the collective crew of the ship. Nervous sweat perambulated through Luigi's hands in a panic. His chest tightened from the claws of distress. They had stepped into an incipient nightmare, and it would only reach perfection by cultivating from their fear.

Isabelle's expression was riddled with dread. "Well, at least we're going the right way. Hehehe. Yeah. I'll be hiding in my book if anyone needs me."

"Room for one more?" Luigi asked.

"You're driving the ship!" Sora said.

Luigi lowered his head. "Trying not to be reminded." Turbulence started strangling the ship with relentless rage. "Is everyone's seatbelts fastened? Because I'm not being held responsible for multiple concussions!"

The ship continued forward through the turbulence. Sora gripped the edge of his seat, prepare for anything. Nothingness stood in front of them. If they lost control now, there would be no world to cushion the fall. The string of their existence would be cut prematurely. They've come too far to quit now.

Luigi tightened his gloved hands on the steering wheel, keeping the ship from becoming ague. This was a minor innconvience, Luigi thought. He could get through this with little issue. But this hope spot was ephemeral, as Heartless ships kept their inexorable promise and appeared. Luigi took a deep breath, quelling the cacophony of panic ringing in his ears. He wouldn't fail his friends.

Including his brother.

Luigi was the heart that pumped life, and, if he ceased, every other organ would shut down with him.

"Hang on!" Luigi said, with intensity in his voice.

He opened fire on the Heartless ships. A one-man war was waged. But in this case, winning wasn't ideal. Victory came from the wise. They needed to reach the next world. It was their only chance for survival. So Luigi did what he could to charge through the brigade, firing lasers in every direction.

Many Heartless ships took a direct hit, exploding into pieces of debris, which were condemned to fall through space forever. Luigi guided the ship through any openings that presented itself. He twisted the ship past more Heartless and fired at ones right in front of them. His eye darted without pause, unblinking, assiduous in every assessment of the situation.

One ship managed to ram into them, but Luigi spun the wheel, keeping everyone on course. Minor setbacks. That's all they were, Luigi thought. They were just delaying their eventual failure. He continued pushing through the angry swarm, taking a bite out of their ranks with his lasers, and dodging attacks with graceful maneuvers.

A beam of hope made its ascension above the horizon. The next world was coming into view. Luigi pushed the thrusters to their limit; he and the others felt themselves being pressed into their seats from the velocity. But immutable tenacity flowed through the Heartless' cold veins, as a plethora of ships blocked their path towards the world.

After coming to a stop, Yoshi leaned over, gritting his teeth in frustration. "Stupid road hogs! Out of the way!"

"Don't get them mad!" Luigi said, trying in vain to hush the dinosaur.

A dreadful cold cajoled the hairs on his neck to rise. Sora spun around and gaped in shock. He tapped Luigi on the shoulder. "Little too late for that."

Luigi spun around to see more Heartless ships. They were surrounded by the fleet. Moving a single muscle was like pulling the trigger to their demise. Luigi sat back in his seat, appearing defeated. For a moment, he was inexpressive; every emotion had become reclusive within his consciousness.

He took off his hat, planted his face inside of it, and screamed for a few moments, regurgitating the pent-up anger and frustration. Once he was relieved of the uncomfortable pressure, Luigi sat back in his seat, letting out a sonorous exhale.

"Done?" Sora asked, raising an eyebrow.

"I think so." Luigi sat forward. "Doesn't make our predicament any better, but it was worth it."

Everyone noticed the Heartless ships becoming enveloped in a dark, purple glow. Intense energy was building within each one. The familiar cold air emitted from the them ran rampant throughout the cockpit, delivering a fatal presage to the hapless crew.

Yoshi whimpered, cowering behind his seat. "Me no think they here to make us part of their roadshow."

"Isn't there anything we can do!?" Isabelle asked, drenched in panic.

Sora closed his eyes, channeling out the uproar, not wasting a drop of brain power. Brain power. Energy of the mind! An idea had been written and sanction in seconds!

Sora pulled out a summon gem, which morphed into the glass dome. "This might be our only chance! Here goes!"

The Heartless fired fast energy blasts straight at the ship, which was consumed by a mob of livid, harangue explosions. And this lethal recital continued for a few moments, as the Heartless wanted to be throughout in their assault. They ceased fire soon after, staring at the vestiges of handiwork in the form of smoke and debris.

Time began a plaintive litany as the ships waited for movement within the smoke. There wasn't even a flinch. That was, until the smoke vanished from a burst of wind, which pushed some of the ships backwards. The Labo Ship emerged from the polluted veil, unharmed, safe within a blue force field of pure, pulsating energy.

Ness was responsible for protecting the ship. He stood in between the front and seats, with arms outstretched. His body trembled from overexertion. It felt like his brain was being weighed down by a bag of stones. But perseverance kept his body hoisted.

"Nice going, pal!" Sora said.

"T-Thanks," Ness said, grunting. Sweat dropped onto his eyebrows, upbraiding him for the overuse of power. "Man…you really know how to give my PSI a workout."

Sora exhibited a sheepish grin; his teeth shimmered with guilt. "Might have to push them a little further. Think you can send attack back at them?"

"You bet!" Ness said, acceding without pause for reflection. In fact, he seemed eager to test how far his limits traveled. "Watch this!"

Ness brought both arms inward, feeling the strain of each muscle. But it didn't stop him. He ignored the remonstrance from his body; being a succor to his friends meant more than anything else. Ness thrusted both arms outward, causing the force field to explode, releasing a wave of energy that knocked the Heartless far away into space; to the point that their return trip would take time. Opportunity would permit their escape.

Ness' body repined in the form of massive fatigue, in which he collapsed onto the ground, catching himself before his face was imprinted with the infinitesimal dirt of the floor. Tears of anguished sweat poured down Ness' cheeks as he took long, deep breaths.

Sora hurried over to help him onto his feet. "Easy there. You okay?" Ness nodded between breaths. "Think that'll do for now. Wouldn't want you to pop a blood vessel."

"I appreciate that," Ness said, chuckling. "But just know I'll be ready for whenever you need me again."

"Sounds like a plan," Sora said.

Ness soon returned to his abode of suspended animation, where immense relief would cradle him into a peaceful, satisfying sleep. Once he vanished, the others collapsed into their chairs, drenched in a similar, calming wave. Everything around them was in a state of quietude. Sora glanced at the purple sky; it continued gazing at him in intimation. But any attempts would prove futile.

Not when he was inspirited with so much confidence. For he knew that his friends would gaze back with him, making the sky appear timorous in nature from their combined force. He was grateful for their assistance. Every challenge was surmountable. And he hoped that sentiment wouldn't become inconstant, ruining his chances at saving Riku and Kairi.

Or existence as they knew it.

"Close one," Yoshi said, exhaling. "Quick thinking, Sora."

"I'm seriously done with aviation after this," Isabelle said, rubbering her temples from a sudden, stressful headache. "I don't care if Dodo Airlines tears up my membership and use it as tissue wipes. Digging a hole to the other side of my world seems like an adequate alternative. Noodle arms, no more!"

Sora placed both hands behind his head. "Aw, flying's not bad." He reflected on his statement. "Well, it wouldn't be if we weren't being chased by Heartless all the time. Then I'd make a hearty recommendation."

"Speaking of," Luigi said in a hurried tone, glancing around the cockpit, "we should probably get a move on before they come back."

Without a moment to lose, Luigi hit the acceleration, and the group flew towards their next world.

Where their immutable bond would wend down an uncertain, corrugated road; and inevitable, emotional scars may never cicatrize.

Upon entering the world, Luigi found a massive platform that floated in a large body of water, like a reclusive island, cold and distant from land. Fortunately, it was strong enough to support the Labo Ship's weight; the platform let out a detestable groan as the ship completed its landing.

Eager to step outside after their hectic battle in space, Luigi was the first to disembark onto the platform, inhaling the lukewarm, aloof air. He kissed the ground, grateful to be imbibed with the nectar of life once more.

"Oh, sweet, sweet land!" Luigi said, overcome with joy. "How I've pined to step on your hard surface again! I—"

When Luigi spun around, any elation he had tapered off into meek particles of fear. He gaped in overawe at the most wonderous, yet intimidating sight imaginable. They were surrounded by a blue mountain that had rushing waterfalls; but logic was untoward from gravity's firm decree, as the water ran upwards.

In front of Luigi were giant, floating rocks. That wasn't too unusual; his own world had a deluge of floating platforms. But the giant castle afield from them was a whole different beast. Its visage appeared deformed, as pipes and towers wrapped themselves around the castle like old vines. Unnatural blue smoke burst from the chimneys, as if extending an ominous greeting.

Embedded in the middle was the same heart symbol located on the Heartless. Already this was unprepossessing, making Luigi believe Heartless were teeming on the inside, preparing a royal banquet for their succulent hearts. The castle itself appeared archaic, having lived in solitude for years; its only joy in life was to view the perpetual pink sky.

Luigi's knees agued as fear made its injunction on his emotions. He glowered at the castle. "The land has betrayed me with an image of a spooky castle! I spit it on you!" And true to his word, he cursed the ground with his salvia.

Sora and Yoshi disembarked from the ship, too, hearing the loud discourse of the waterfalls echoing in their ears. Yoshi stared at the waterfalls, captivated by its defiant state of existence. His mind was replete with enthralling questions, trying to draw out a rough sketch of this world's design, searching for answers.

But Sora's eyes were drawn to the mysterious castle. He stared at it for a long time. Its presence was alluring. He couldn't figure out why. A confluence of thoughts and feelings began knocking on the crest of his subconscious, trying to burst open the cellar door. Preventing their liberation was inexorable. The door swung open; they crawled into the space of consciousness, flashing images of unknown origin at him.

Why was this happening? None of these images made sense. And yet, they felt familiar as his retinas burned every image of the castle to memory. Sora was perplexed, and a bit worried. But one thing was certain about the castle:

"I…I know this place," Sora said, mumbling to himself.

Sora continued searching for a train of reasoning to board; there, it would take him to a station that housed the answer.

"Sure is a strange world," Luigi said, as he glanced around the area with a hint of intrigue (although it was mostly oversaturated with anxiety). "Might be the strangest so far."

Yoshi hugged himself, as a strange chill traversed each lump of his scales like a sled. "Something feel unnatural. Gives Yoshi the creeps."

Sora found himself ejected from the sanctum of his mind by a strong sensation. And the doors would remain sealed until he can solve this sudden exigent first.

"I wonder why" —Sora placed a hand on his chest— "I feel this warmth, right here."

Yoshi spun around to examine Sora, and his eyes lit up in absolute glee. "Ohhhhhhhh! Sora! Me so happy!"

"About what?" Sora asked.

Yoshi smile widened. "You hungry just like Yoshi! Wanting to eat outside of main courses! Me couldn't be prouder!"

"It's not like that," Sora said, chuckling.

Luigi noticed Sora holding his chest. Troubling memories made their strident, unwelcome return, trampling over the serene carpet. Even Luigi's chest tightened in worry. "Is it that strange feeling you experienced when we were in Ylisse?"

"I think so," Sora said, after taking a moment to reflect.

Luigi mulled over the situation. Concern continued its unruly trampling. Every stomp grew louder. He didn't have a smattering as to why Sora was having these strange palpitations. But he didn't want anything horrible to befall him. Not after everything they've been through together.

Regret was an egregious tail that pursued you forever.

"Listen, Sora," Luigi said, rubbing his moustache, trying to erode the guilt in his stomach, "I think maybe you should get some rest for now."

Sora was taken aback. "What? Why?"

"You just haven't been….yourself for the past few hours." Luigi glanced at Yoshi, who concurred with a solemn expression. "With everything that's happened these past few days….I just think that maybe you're worn out.

"He right," Yoshi said. "A nice nap good for you." He patted his chest with zeal. "Luigi and I will go on ahead."

Luigi's sincere face warped into absolute dread. "Hold on a second! Let's not be too generous now!"

"Guys, I appreciate the concern, but I want to keep moving," Sora said.

The two stared at him in shock, as if words were scribbled on his face. Sora saw this strange occurrence as a minor inconvenience. His determination was implacable towards any pleas to linger. Not when his conscience remained restless over finding Riku and Kairi; it would never succumb to peaceful reprieve until knowing they were safe.

Yoshi tried to protest, but Sora said, with candor, "Look, I don't know what to make of this feeling in my chest. Frankly, it's making me a little nervous. Anyone would be. But, in a strange way, I feel like it's guiding me towards that castle. Weird, I know. It's just one of those feelings you can't describe through words. Resting isn't going to help. If anything, the warmth will only grow stronger – might even start tugging at me to go."

Luigi and Yoshi glanced at each other – deliberation was exchanged through their eyes, as vacillation swayed back and forth like a sailboat on rough waters. Had the weight of exhaustion collapsed on him, or was there truth to his claim? The latter wouldn't be the strangest thing that occurred on this journey; you could sit down and enumerate every single one.

"Gee," Luigi said, as an air of caution brushed through his hair. "Not sure what to make of that."

"I'm not expecting you guys to believe me," Sora said, as the sincerity on his countenance became more defined. "But this is what I want. Maybe this place will have the answers I need. Please."

Luigi closed his eyes, letting out a soft chuckle. "Always have to be defiant, huh? You sure about this?"

"Positive," Sora said, exhibiting his usual upbeat demeanor. "Besides, why should I worry? You two always have my back."

Yoshi could feel himself inspirited by Sora's positivity. He knew how to impel everyone into relinquishing that skeptical monocle and see the bright side of every situation.

"Of course!" Yoshi said, as his expression brightened. He frowned. "But if Sora get beaten up real good, me dragging you back to ship! Understand?"

Sora patted his head. "Yes, sir!"

Before the group could discuss their next course of action, they were interrupted by a male voice shouting, "Hi-ya!"

"What was that?" Luigi asked, reeling back in surprise.

"Dunno." Sora's adventures heart engendered strong, excited beats. "Let's find out! Come on!"

He and Yoshi hurried towards the sound of the voice. Luigi groaned in annoyance. Perhaps he shouldn't have conceded, and dragged Sora back to the ship, kicking and screaming. "You two would run into a glass house during a mass river dance recital!"

With a heavy sigh, he ran after the others.

Located on a rock closet to the top were four pillars surrounding a star shaped fountain that went up to one's toes. Leaning over the edge of the rock was an arched doorway, standing alone, watching over the mountain area in brooding silence.

Currently, Riku was on the platform, deflecting incoming strikes from his opponent, who wielded a staff. Each thrust was like venomous sting from a livid scorpion, implacable to any pleas from its sense of morality. Anger and rage impelled every emotion. But Riku would not find himself caught within his opponent's vengeful torrent. Not when endued with the darkness' protective chainmail.

Riku brought his blade straight up to his face to block an incoming strike. The stranger tried hitting the boy with the dull end of the staff, but Riku ducked underneath it, charged his fist with dark energy, and threw a punch. His opponent was quick to block with the staff. However, the force knocked him back towards the edge of the rock. He was able to maintain his balance.

The strange drew his pistol, firing a beam of green energy at the boy; Riku tilted his torso to dodge the incoming attack, feeling the heat of the laser's vicious bite. He turned back to his opponent, inexpressive; and yet, there was infinitesimal flicker of respect in his eyes.

"Gotta admit: for a flea bag you're pretty strong," Riku said. "And you got here without a vessel, or without help from the Heartless. Not too shabby."

His opponent took no satisfaction in such a backhanded compliment. He resented every fiber that perambulated on Riku's being. If this kid worked with those 'Heartless,' then he was another obstacle ascribed to keeping him from his goal. Just like his feelings towards the Heartless, the stranger's unmitigated contempt for Riku was salient.

The stranger hosted his gun, and held his staff with both hands, pointing the tip towards Riku, like the threatening teeth of a lion. He was an anthropomorphic fox with orange-brown fur, firm green eyes, a white-tipped bushy tail, and a white crew cut in the middle of his head. The fox wore a green jumpsuit under his white, sleeveless vest, fingerless silver gloves, and silver boots.

Fox McCloud – mercenary, ace star pilot, friend, and savoir of his home galaxy: the Lylat System. He put together an incredible team of pilots to defend their world from the unjust. None could rival their sedulous mastery of aviation, technical wizardry, and unwavering friendship. Fox and his team were revered for their indefatigable heroism. The Lylat System could maintain its peaceful existence without pause for distrait.

Yet, despite such acclaim, Fox had to inure emotional hardship. Especially from losing both his parents at a young age. Even the support of his crew wasn't enough to patch the plaintive leak. But then, amongst the dilapidated undergrowth, he found a radiant Krystal. Imperfectly cut, just like him, but, when merged, they formed a bright, shimmering diamond, forged by their ardor for one another other. They felt complete.

Until the Heartless' contaminated, ignoble claws snatched her away from him. He was bereft of her radiance. It was a horrible feeling. Would make anyone languor in a dark, empty, inconsolable hovel. But not Fox; his love for her continued its proud march, despite traveling uphill into pearl.

Determination wended every action. Nothing would stop him from seeing her glow again. Even though she was afield, Fox never lost sight of that immutable shine. It eroded amongst the foliage of darkness, but never faded. His eyes would remain fixated upon that speck.

Fox glared at Riku. "Flattery isn't gonna keep you safe from a potential puncturing. You better start talking, kid."

"Sure." Riku formed a smug smirk. "Let's start with how you got here."

A loud growl seeped through the cracks of Fox's gritted teeth. "Don't play games with me!"

He swung at Riku, who leaped over him, and landed on the opposite of the arena. Fox darted towards Riku at inhuman speeds, leaving a blue afterimage of himself in the process, hoping to land a hit. But to his surprise, Riku spun around and deflected the strike. Fox was beyond bewilderment: how was some kid able to keep pace with a trained mercenary?

But, given the circumstances, the word impossible was effaced from dictionary with troubling black ink. With opportunity pushing his advantage ajar, Riku delivered a kick to Fox's stomach, sending him reeling back in pain. But he conciliated the pain with images of his Krystal. Her visage continued illuminating within his mind. Not a cloud of doubt could conceal that visual.

"Sorry," Riku said, with a look of disdain. "I don't PLAY games. What I want is answers. Someone like you might prove useful."

Fox stood up as he continued easing the pain in his abdomen. Reproach hardened his lineament. "Like I'd let you use me as some puppet."

"How about this, then?" Riku said. "Tell me what you know, and I MIGHT discloser her location."

Fox took a deep breath, minimizing the flow of fatigue that started filling his body. Combat alone would not dictate results. After all, they were a cacophonic harangue – noise that lacked meaning. Proper information would diffuse the incongruous wave and allow Fox to see a clear plan upon the horizon.

Fox leaped back a few feet, relaxed the staff in his hand, and stood up, retaining a firm expression. He would not let his shield falter. "You wanna know how I got here? Simple. Through sheer force. All I had to was believe, and then convert those thoughts into raw power. It gave me strength to push through the darkness."

"Believe in what?"

Fox closed his eyes, as strong emotions swarmed around his chest. "When our world fell into darkness, Krytal was taken from me. I vowed I would find her again no matter what the cost. I believed I would find her." He opened his eyes, which beamed with confidence. "So, here I am. She must be here."

"Touching," Riku said, disinterested. "Well, you'd be right." He glanced at the castle. "I'd say she's all the way on the top floor. Cliched, but effective." He pointed his blade at Fox. "Too bad I never said anything about giving her over."

Fox chuckled. "I know. All you're doing is making things difficult for yourself." He resumed his battle position; indignation made every strand of fur on his body stand tall. "Because you'll never get a chance to repent for your stupid decision once I'm through with you!"

"Go ahead!" Riku said, clutching his free hand into a fist. "Try taking her from me!"

Fox clenched his fist together, summoning incredible, scorching energy from within; it soon manifested around his body, as if he donned a cloak of flames, pulsating with indefatigable fury. Nothing would insatiate the flame's wrath until its burning nails caressed fragile skin. Fox launched himself at Riku like a blazing missile.

The boy was able to judge the speed of Fox's attack, leaped backwards, and watched as Fox stopped just a few feet in front of him. Unfortunately, Fox needed a moment to recover from such exertion. But Riku wouldn't allow him to supplicate for time's mercy. He lunged forward, prepared to strike.

Everything around Fox became slow in a thick morass of abject horror. He didn't have time to defend himself. All he could do was watch with frightened eyes as the blade slid across his chest, releasing a rupture of immense pain. Fox tottered backwards, clutching his chest, trying to ease the agony that stormed throughout the body like a vicious mob; they set every muscle ablaze with intense pain.

No amount of fortitude could surmount the sudden sedative of fatigue. It traveled through his body, making him tremble. Fox struggled to keep his balance, but exhaustion prevailed in this internal conflict; he kneeled over, clutching onto his staff for support. His breathing was heavy and loud, drowning out the omnipresent sound of the waterfalls for a moment.

Movement had been manacled for its crime against the body's limit. Fox was helpless, and Riku would be the arbiter of his fate. But before the gavel could strike, Sora and the others arrived on the scene, standing in front of Fox as his temporary battlement, weapons drawn.

"Stop!" Abhorrence dispersed from Sora's face like ire steam as he stared at Riku.

Sora grew up with this person. Looked up to him as a big brother. And now, he was willing to hurt others without being restrained by the firm hand of remorse. It was disgusting; Sora wanted to believe this was a prolonged nightmare – that he was still asleep on his island, laying in the caressing grains of sand. But he could feel the coarse air flick at his skin like sharp pebbles, serving as an unfortunate reminder of that fallacy.

All Sora could do was accept the present, and delineate a hopeful, bright future.

Riku expression remained still as he returned Sora's stare. Not a hint of emotion pried open his pupils. "So, you finally made it. About time. I've been waiting for you."

"Waiting for me, huh?" Sora said, frowning. "I'm guessing it's not to apologize for what a massive idiot you've been."

A small smirk crept through Riku's lips. Only to be subdued in an instant. "You finally made a decent joke. Congratulations."

Sora gripped the hilt of the Keyblade, trying to disperse even a pint of tension from his body. It didn't work; they were trapped inside, impelling every muscle to tighten from their negative influence. The moment he dreaded had arrived: he would have to fight against his former best friend. Luigi and Yoshi contracted a similar illness of inquietude; they didn't know what to expect from Riku.

But their teamwork had never led them errant. They extrapolated another win for them.

Riku chuckled at Sora. "Funny. The way you're staring me down reminds me of being back home. How the two of us would always roughhouse. Even now, we stand on opposite sides of each other. We've always been rivals, haven't we? You've always pushed me as I've always pushed you."

"Riku…" Sora said, feeling crestfallen from being assaulted by those carefree memories. How he wished they could just be rivals again, instead of enemies, divided by a large, impenetrable paling of resentment.

"And it'll always be that way, huh?" Riku said, placing both hands in his pockets, nettled. "No matter what I do, you'll find a way to stop me. And then the cycle will start all over again." His expression was cast in an ominous shadow. "But that's about to change; it all ends here. There can't be two Keyblade masters."

Sora was taken aback by Riku's sudden claim. Even Luigi and Yoshi exchanged perplexed glances, as if they needed confirmation from the absurdness of Riku's words.

"Wh-what are you talking about?" Sora asked, feeling uneasiness squeeze itself around his throat.

Riku removed both hands from his pockets. His expression remained firm and assured. "Let the Keyblade choose" —he held his hand out— "it's true master!"

And that's when everything changed.

The Keyblade quivered within Sora's hand, and started pulling itself away from him, as if attracted by an unseen force. Sora held on with both hands, trying to keep the Keyblade from being pulled into the invisible current. But all the strength in the world couldn't overmaster the spectral judgement of fate.

Upon losing his grip, the Keyblade vanished. "What!?"

Everyone was beyond shocked to see the Keyblade reappear in Riku's hand. For a moment, he stared in awe at its majestic form; a tingle of ethereal power tickled his fingers as he held the hilt. He had been blessed with an incredible gift. Despite appearing aloof on the outside, a concourse of gaiety gathered within his chest, inspiriting him with uproarious confidence.

"Bowser was right," Riku said to himself. He pointed at Sora. "You don't have what it takes to save Kairi. It's up to me. Only the Keyblade master can open the secret door and change the world."

For a moment, the group's tongues were paralyzed by stunned silence. Laconic words couldn't express the thoughts and emotions that wandered throughout their minds in aimless panic. This was especially true for Sora. He stared down at his hands, believing that this was a ruse.

Yoshi's temperament toppled over, and he started stomping over towards Riku, enraged. "Hey! That's Sora's! Give it back!"

"Yoshi!" Luigi said, restraining the dinosaur. "I…I don't think Riku STOLE it from him."

Sora continued staring at his hands. The comforting warmth that skated throughout his fingers was gone. He felt a sense of….normalcy. And it frightened him. Made him feel weak and vulnerable. Like a part of him no longer existed. For a moment, he didn't want to believe every discouraging image – that it was a fabrication.

But lying to ourselves was the only comfort we could muster in times of stress.

"This isn't right," Sora said, incredulous. "How did this happen?" He looked up at Riku, expressing outrage. "I'm the one who fought my way here with the Keyblade!"

"So?" Riku asked. "You were just the delivery boy. Made my job a heck of a lot easier." Upon making the Keyblade vanished, he pulled out a wooden sword – the same one he used during their fun days of sparring. But, now, it was a worthless relic that had no value. "Sorry, your part's over now. Here, go play hero with this."

He tossed the sword right at Sora's feet. Acceptance awakened rational senses from their slumber. Sora fell onto his hands and knees, defeated. His mind went numb from a cold air of despondency. He was worthless. Nothing he did ever mattered. A means to an end – an instrument that outlived its usefulness. He believed the Keyblade chose him for a reason.

And it did. As a servant to someone better than him – a depressing notion that would forever be sewn into his skull. He couldn't save anyone now. Not even himself.

Right now, he was hollow. But, in just a few moments, he was about to plunge deeper into that dismal feeling.

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