A/N: We are three away from two hundred favorite for the story. That's incredible! Please spread the word about my story! But, for now, enjoy the chapter!

Chapter 70: Rebirth

Sorrow played its soft, elegiac harmonica. The melody dug through everyone's ear canal, until reaching the center, where their emotional cord resided. It plucked at Luigi and Yoshi's, sending plaintive vibration throughout their bodies. Luigi lowered his cap to cover his eyes. But they couldn't mask the tears engendered from the echoes of sorrow in his heart.

Despite the occasional expostulations, Sora had left a huge impact on his life. His upbeat, obstinate deportment debarred Luigi from taking a retrograded step towards pessimism. It allowed him to view the positive, pink glow of life's horizon. To see it reflect on the waters of inquietude, and shimmer with temerity.

But the inspirited light tapered into dark, dour clouds that would never surcease. Darkness covered the entire vicinity, leaving him enveloped in an inconsolable state of mind. He walked over to the corner of the room, sniffling, unsuccessful in keeping the tears from diving off the ducts. Each one landed headfirst onto the ground; vestiges of their sadness soaked the carpet.

"Sora," Luigi said, between each shaken breath. "Why did you go and do that?"

Yoshi's muffled sobs prevented silence from finding quiescent peace. Tears poured down like a dispirited rain storm. He couldn't inure the gamut of sadness wailing in his chest. It's been said many times, but Sora was like a big brother to the dinosaur – someone always there to obviate the persuasion of disinclination's cajoles. To give him strength in dire situations, and laughter when dejected, obtrusive shadows hovered overhead.

Sora understood how Yoshi felt better than most. Maybe it was the short gap in their age. Either way, they managed to fit right between it, becoming compatible. But, right now, that gap was vacant – incipient, unable to become whole. And he felt alone inside of it as every crestfallen emotion spilled onto the floor.

But reality couldn't pluck Kairi's emotional string. It remained rigid, obdurate before the verdict of Sora's fate. Not when he had come so far to save her. He had never fain against the odds. In the end, he always surmounted them. She continued staring up towards the ceiling, as if waiting for an aberration in this dome of quietude; for Sora to reappear with that uplifting grin, and reignite the spark of gaiety in their souls.

But nothing happened. Reality responded with a taciturn glare.

Kairi could feel infinitesimal discouragement start to strum against the sting. "Sora, are you really—No. He can't be! I won't let him go!"

Like a stubborn child, she knocked over the blocks that spelled out Sora's outcome; she was gainsay towards any evidence that tried to prove otherwise. Kairi heard Yoshi's sobs, kneeled over to the him, and gave his head commiserate strokes. The memories of Sora's journey had been imbibed into her mind. She knew how close Sora was with Yoshi.

"Pour little guy," Kairi said, sliding her palm up and down the back of his head. "You really care for him, huh?"

Her gentle strokes managed to ameliorate the paroxysm of despair somewhat. Every slow glide provided a warm shelter from the aggressive storm. But he could still feel sadness' heavy, implacable raindrops patter on him. The mournful undercurrent still traveled through the chambers of his heart, uninterrupted.

Regardless, Kairi's gesture provided an a temporary, calming irrigation for the depressing, arid crops of emotion. Yoshi's face left the uncomfortable sojourn of the ground, and stared right at Kairi. His blue, oval shaped eyes were rheumy – windows that had been drenched non-stop from a despondent downpour of tears.

Kairi resumed stroking his head, trying to resew Yoshi's shredded soul. And it was working. Quietude hushed the cacophony of conflating emotions with reassurance. His breathing started to erode with each passing stroke. He felt lighter, as if drifting through the stratosphere, watching scintillating stars staring in sympathy.

But the weight of grief over over losing Sora prevented him from ascending higher.

"It's going to be okay," Kairi said, as she rubbed his cheek. She would not accede to the homogeneous sentiment, ignoring the salient facts presented. "I'm not giving up on him. He's alive."

Luigi, having wiped tears from his eyes, turned to Kairi, incredulous, keeping a firm grip on a rail of reality. "H-How can you be certain?"

"It's something I just believe!" Kairi said, with an intonation of conviction in her tone. Her laconic claim reverberated throughout the vicinity, assenting with every syllable. "Sora fought his way through so many worlds to find me. Wherever he is now, I know he isn't going to give up. Stubborn lazy bum never knew how to."

Luigi was in disbelief as she continued to balk Sora's incontrovertible status in darkness. Her eyes flickered with unwavering confidence; not even a hint of pessimistic dross was daubed across them. It was the same brilliant light Sora had when the impossible loomed over him. Luigi inferred as to why Sora gravitated towards her.

He had his answer.

She had same ineffable drive to never quit on her loved ones. The odds could never debauch such unwavering confidence. She and Sora influenced each other through their encouraging voices. It's what kept them fighting. Luigi's discouraging enumerations against the notion of Sora's status would be effaced from her in an instant – meaningless noise desiccated from sweltering determination.

Before Luigi could ruminate over their predicament, the room exhaled a frightening, intense chill. Kairi and Yoshi had to hug themselves as the inconstant temperature crawled up their skin with menace, rapping against each nerve. Luigi's body was ague from the unfortunate combination of cold and trepidation.

A dark, ominous voice glided along the cold air, and swirled into the ear canals. "Do not let the stages of grief deceive you. One who has sacrificed his heart can never return."

Everyone spun around to see a tall man standing before them. The room grew dark, as if taking a bow before his imperious presence. This man wasn't just a resident of the darkness' amorphous kingdom; he sat on the throne as its eminent, redoubtable master. Although, for someone that was anathema towards light's toxic glow, his skin was tan – Kairi could have mistaken him as a former denizen of her island.

The man had long white hair, with the top and sides spiked, forming the shape of a "W." He donned a long, gray, unbuttoned leather coat that had yellow lining. The arms of the coat were covered by two white gloves. Inside the coat, he wore black pants and boots, and a white vest; the top half was open, exposing his chest; it displayed the familiar Heartless symbol, as if showing his loyalty towards the venerable darkness.

But the man's imposing demeanor couldn't be complete without a pair of cold, callous yellow eyes – they stared right at three, causing their chests to replete with heavy sands of trepidation.

"That voice…Ansem?" Luigi asked, in sudden shock.

Ansem smirked. "Indeed. The boy's efforts to stop me were futile. My power has no bounds." He glanced at Kairi; fear's tremendous weight pushed further against her chest. Her subconscious, acting by perforce, commanded Kairi to wrap herself around Yoshi's arm for protection. "But his sacrifice was not in vain. It had awakened you, princess. The Keyhole is now complete." His gaze grew threatening, as if about to lunge out and deliver a fatal strike. "But now it's over."

Ansem started walking towards them. An irrational hand of anxiety grabbed the nape of Kairi's neck, and started pulling her backwards. Why was she experiencing this intense feeling? Something about Ansem's physiognomy was familiar, yet unprepossessing; it caused that incommode of petrification. She couldn't recall anything on the surface level.

But an aberration stirred within the Abyssopelagic Zone. No matter how hard she looked, Kairi failed to see even a silhouette. However, an entity resided in the murky waters, fliting back and forth, triggering an unknow, painful memory. Luigi and Yoshi ran in front of Kairi to protect her. Although grief had clouded their emotions, they had to focus on the small, clear spot that was afield from them – to remonstrant dejection with temerity.

Survival was exigent. Remaining curled up in mournful shawl would make their fate inexorable.

"Stay right there!" Luigi said, trying to be an obstinate roadblock in Ansem's path. "Or else you won't like where this'll go!"

Ansem dulled the sharp threat with an amused expression. "I concur. I definitely won't like being disappointed by how quickly you two fall."

Luigi's audible, frightened gulp washed the courage into the pit of his stomach.

"Luigi think we can take this guy?" Yoshi asked, as his voice rode on a seesaw of doubt. He felt his chest deflate in shame. Yoshi had never questioned their odds before. It was a testament to how much Sora had an influence on him. The word 'impossible' seemed like an illusion used to cozen one's confidence. But, right now, without Sora's encouraging aura, the word was a reality.

He missed his big brother so much.

"Well," Luigi said, trying to fish for a reasonable answer. None bit the hook, "at least giving him a potential concussion's better than nothing."

Yoshi frowned and rolled his eyes. "Thanks. Don't let Yoshi burst all his scales from inspiration."

The two braced themselves as the Seeker of Darkness walked closer. They had to fight with every ounce of blood pumping through their veins. Sora wouldn't want them to quit. Even though he was gone, his energetic voice still echoed within their heads. It was loud, almost as if beside them.

They would keep that sentiment latched to their souls, as the inevitable approached them. But, to everyone's surprise, Ansem came to a stop. He was unable to move; paralysis had infiltrated his body with a silence whisper, and let out a piercing battle cry to penetrate every muscle.

"I-Impossible…" Ansem said, as he grunted, fighting against an imperceptible force.

Riku appeared in front of Ansem as an astral projection – intangible, but present. His will was sliding through the bars of captivity. But he couldn't escape. They were too strong. Eventually, they would mutate into a single steel bar, obstructing any light from shining through. He had to make every second count.

"N-No," Riku said, fighting against Ansem's influence. "Y-You won't use me for this!"

"A ghost!" Luigi said in terror. "Bye-bye, kiddies!"

Luigi tried to run, but Yoshi stopped him. For a fleeting second, Kairi was taken aback, as if encountering an illusion – a untoward fabrication ascribed for playing with her emotions. But, deep in her heart, she inferred that it wasn't a ploy: this was the genuine article. His body language was candor; it was tacit in everything she needed to know.

"Riku!" Kairi said. "You're al—

"There's no time!" Riku said, with urgency in his tone. "Run now! The Heartless are coming!"

"But…" Kairi said, as crevasses of protest appeared on her lineament.

"Kairi," Riku said; an eddy of guilt spun around his irises. "I'm sorry…for everything. But I can't hold him much longer! Please!"

She sighed in defeat. Seeing her childhood friend be reduced to someone's servant was abhorrent. His free will had become property to someone so ignoble. She couldn't stand to see him suffer. But she didn't have the power to break he manacles. Looking deep into Riku's eyes, she could tell that he was amenable with his sufferance. All that mattered to him was her safety. Although reluctant, she had to comply with his request.

"Okay," Kairi said. She turned to Luigi and Yoshi. "Come on, guys!"

Luigi stared at Riku for a moment – a frown tugged at his lower lips. After everything that happened, he was apprehensive in trusting him. But Kairi didn't have the slightest hint of vacillation. She knew him better than anyone else, and could see the sincerity in even the smallest pore. Luigi would trust her judgement, although the strident grudge for Riku wouldn't recede anytime soon.

Besides, he never objected to running away from fight. Especially since he had permission.

"But what about the Keyhole!?" Yoshi asked, in a frantic tone.

Luigi narrowed his eyes at him. "Do you happen to own a Keyblade?"

"Well, no," Yoshi said, blushing in embarrassment over his inconsequential question. He let out a wide, nervous grin. "It no too late to call the locksmith, is it?"

Luigi groaned in exasperation as he grabbed Yoshi's arm. "Please let me keep some seconds of my life intact, and RUN!"

The three hurried down the stairs, and headed for the exit. Luigi noticed that Fox was nowhere in sight. He soon understood why, as a few Shadow Heartless appeared in their path. Fox must've retreated due to the sudden rise in numbers. Such a wise Canidae, he thought. Perhaps his mindset was tantamount to Luigi's own.

Luigi and Yoshi used their weapons to knock the Heartless aside, clearing a path towards the exit. Riku watched as their form was consumed by the dark threshold. He closed his eyes, at peace. Kairi was safe – a sentiment that would keep him company as he faded back into nothingness, whispering positive affirmation in his ear. He was content.

Ansem regained movement and forced Riku to vanish; he returned to his endless, derelict existence in darkness. All he had were his thoughts to echo throughout his head. And they were filled with regret. Ansem glanced over at the exit; he wasn't disappointed that they escaped. How far could they run? Heartless teemed throughout the castle. Every corner would be guarded by unwelcoming, unblinking yellow eyes, eager for a repast of hearts.

And without the Keyblade's ethereal light to cleanse the deluge of darkness, Kairi and the others would soon provide satiation for the restless Heartless. Ansem was impressed by Riku's tenacity, despite his will being servile to the former monarch's every command. But such persistence would yield before darkness' inevitable hold. Riku's heart was almost buried within its soil; there would be no escape.

Ansem turned to face the completed keyhole. His plans had reached the confluence; its form was perfect. He had waited for this moment forever. It stared back at him, awaiting the command. Soon, existence would be trapped within the safe dome of darkness. Light's brilliant form would be too timorous to lay even a finger on it.

He couldn't wait to see his dream realized. Without another moment to lose, he approached the heart-shaped door, hefting his ambitions; he was prepared to unleash them onto the world. As he entered, a group of Shadows appeared in his wake. All but one left to hunt their prey. The one left behind stared at the exit for a long time, as if in thought. It was drawn to a faraway light (an uncharacteristic design of a Heartless' gestalt).

Espoused by curiosity, the Heartless leaped onto the first floor and followed the light. Something within the creature's being wanted to touch it – to experience a sensation other than emptiness.

And it would not stop until that pitcher was full.

The halls echoed from the incongruous sounds of panting and running feet – noise that seldom graced the venerable architecture. But there was a quiver of anxiety carried with the reverberation. It added to the disquieting atmosphere that permeated throughout the halls. Kairi and others hurried back towards the castle's entrance.

But the Heartless wouldn't their traversal smooth. Their cold presence breathed down the three's necks, as if panting with excitement for nutriment. The trio dared not look over their shoulders to see what horrors pursued them. Not even their imaginations would volunteer with a potential, grotesque photograph. The sight would be discouraging, and distract them in the process.

Escape should be their only predilection. Soon, they boarded the long platform again, and waited in impatient silence as it moved to the other side of the castle. For a little while, Luigi and Yoshi never let their guard falter. Their rapid, harsh breathing disrupted the gentle flow of the wind.

Luigi felt like his heart was being used in an intense game of tennis. They were reaching the precipice of exhaustion. Ignoring the fatigue was crucial. If they fall, the Heartless would be there to catch them, jaws wide open like a vicious shark. But none appeared on the platform. Time had issued a temporary injunction of reprieve. And they took full advantage of each second, regaining their vitality in the process.

Kairi turned around and looked up to the crest of the castle. Right now, there was a litany of thoughts and feelings to unpack; reaching the bottom seemed impossible. Even if she did, where was the best place to start?

"Mama-mia!" Luigi said, with a big sigh. "What a fine mess this turned out to be!"

Kairi glanced at him. "Know what you mean." She faced the castle again, reflecting on everything that had transpired. The longer Kairi enumerated, the more dejected she became over the somber reel that played in front of her.

"Kairi?" Yoshi asked, in a sad, gentle tone.

She let out a heavy sign, trying to dispel some of the sorrow that lingered in her chest like pollen. It didn't help. "The night we lost our home…I followed Riku to our island. He…wasn't himself. I thought I could help. That's when I lost my heart. Should I have done things differently? I should've asked Sora to come with me. Maybe that would've changed everything. Right now, they both wouldn't be…"

Small tears started to form in her eyes. Yoshi walked next to her and licked away each salty drop.

"Hey," Luigi said, placing a sympathetic hand on her shoulder. "You did what was necessary. Don't think for a second that this is your fault! Ansem has been pulling the strings this whole time! He has no regard for anyone, and will use any underhanded tactic to get what he wants. Channel that emotion towards him. It'll give you motivation to never quit." He was startled by his own sentence. "Wow. Now I sound like Sora! Should I be concerned?"

Kairi couldn't help but chuckle, which subsided the tears. "He has a way of spreading his germs around."

"Yes, he does," Luigi said, shaking his head with a smile. "So you can think of a million different scenarios, But that's all they are, and all they ever will be. None of us could have foreseen any of this, right? All we can do is focus on the future."

Kairi sighed, concurring with him. She wiped away what little tears were left. "Okay. But what about the other princesses? We can't just leave them."

Luigi shook his head, donning a grave expression. She understood why. The risk far outweighed the reward. He hated the idea of leaving them. Especially Princess Peach. They were so close to being reunited. Yet, fate seemed amused in keeping the knights from reaching their queen on the chessboard of life.

"There has to be something!" Kairi said; her sadness contorted through a cold, metal pipe of frustration. Luigi expression remained in a state of taciturn. "It's not fair! I feel so helpless!"

"You're not alone," Luigi said, trying to remain calm under the pressure of their situation. Small pebbles started descending around them, but he had to ignore each fragment. Escaping the castle was contingent on them remaining rational in the face of oppression. "We're all stuck in the same boat, or, whatever this floating thing is, in case you haven't noticed. We have friends back in Traverse Town who can give us a hand. They might even help in figuring out how to save Sora and Riku. You still believe they can be saved, right?"

"Without a doubt," Kairi said, as Luigi's words inspirited her with confidence. She looked back at the top floor; hesitation still murmured discouraging sentences in her ear. "I just hope the other princesses will be okay."

"They will," Luigi said, trying to keep his head above pessimistic clouds. "They're strong in their own unique way. One of them is our princess, and she can hold her own in stressful situations." He shuttered. "Trust me. Never play tennis with her. I've lost a few pieces of moustache hair as a result. May those little handsome strains rest in peace."

Kairi chuckled in response. This intermission of reflection (coupled with a bit of humor) brushed aside some of the haze that loomed overhead. She had to keep accepting hope's offer of succor. Riku's consciousness continued swimming upstream against Ansem's will. It may not reach the surface. On its own, at least. There was a chance she could reach for it.

As for Sora – his fate remained ambiguous behind an opaque glass window. But Kairi would continue her attempts at prying it open, knowing he was there, waiting for their inevitable reunion. His presence filled her chest with encouraging light; it would inspire her to keep looking for him.

Because she couldn't imagine a world where his existence was relegated to memory.

Kairi was cleansed of dispirited smudge, but it still smeared across Yoshi's body; it left this unpleasant feeling over him. He stared out at the inexpressive pink horizon, lamenting over the lost of his friend. Those joyful times were indelible – an ornate diorama beaming with life. Yet, it was incomplete. He wanted to add more models to the scenes of him and Sora; to take part in new experiences.

He didn't want their time together to end.

Luigi walked over to the dinosaur and placed a comforting arm around him. They started walking away from Kairi, as Luigi whispered, "I know how you feel. I miss him too."

"Y-You think Kairi, right?" Yoshi asked, as a small, sad sniffle slide out of his nostrils. "I-Is Sora still alive?"

Luigi paused for a second, being sedulous with the words stirring around like alphabet soup. He needed to be delicate in his approach. Giving Yoshi false hope would only make things worse – it would create a painful ripple that would accrue over time. "Wish I had a definitive answer. But we can't pursue it now. What Sora did was absolutely insane. Yet, in a rare instance, it had purpose. And" —he gave a subtle gesture towards Kairi— "one of those reasons is with us now. You know we can't let his sacrifice be for nothing."

Yoshi shook out each sentence and hung them over a clothesline; he mulled over them with meticulous intent, and saw clarity.

"I know you'd promise to do anything for him," Luigi said. "Even if he's not here, his intentions are still with us. We can't let them suffer that same fate. Not after all he's done to find her."

Yoshi took a deep breath. Luigi was right; regardless of Sora's status, he made a vow, which transcended the fabric of existence itself. He would never let it unravel into loose thread, strewn throughout the area, unable to reform. Although circumventing the immense dejection was impossible, for now, to honor his friend, Yoshi would don a chain mail of courage. Pessmistic harangues would deflect off its titanium form.

Yoshi nodded with a firm expression on his face, and walked over to Kairi. "Don't worry. Yoshi and Luigi do everything we can to help you. We gonna get out of here faster than you can say dinner."

"Thanks," Kairi said, smiling. "Glad you guys are here." Her stomach rumbled, being tossed around in a violent mob of hunger. "Although don't say dinner. I haven't eaten in days. Surprised I'm still carrying some meat on me."

Yoshi grinned in excitement. "Oh, boy! Then Yoshi remedy issue! Me known to be a guru when it come to stuffing face. You'll have a happy, full bump in no time!"

"Well, I've seen how you eat through Sora's memories," Kairi said, with an awkward chuckle. "Think I'm fine with staying at the novice level."

"Everyone, stay alert," Luigi said, interrupting their frivolous banter with the wave of an urgent flag. "We're about to arrive."

Moments later, once the platform halted, the three disembarked, and continued their quick decent through the castle, staying ahead of the imminent eclipse of darkness. If covered in its dark form, all hope would be lost. Unbeknownst the group, however, the lone Heartless had been pursuing them. It crawled along the walls, watching them with intense curiosity.

Especially at Kairi. Her entire being radiated with an overwhelming light. Yet, this Heartless showed no sign of fear. It was drawn to its warmth like moths to a flame. The Heartless didn't yield to caution – inquiry had immobilized every other thought and desire. They had become obsolete. Nothing would stop this Heartless until it pushed through the veil of light, eager to see what awaited on the other side.

The group arrived back at the Entrance Hall. Earlier, it served as a stage, where an important drama was performed – a small, three act structure wended their emotions in various directions. But now, the stage had been demolished in favor of an escape route. They were close to the Labo ship. Luigi couldn't wait to sink into the security of his seat, which would respond with a cheerful squeak.

The three ran down the stairs, past the water fountain that continued its eternal verse of splashing, and ran straight for the giant door.

"Sweet freedom awaits!" Luigi said, in triumph.

But something had tampered that fulfilling prophecy, as the lone Shadow appeared in front of the group.

"Whoa!" Luigi said, startled. "Where did you come from?"

"Aw, it only measly little Heartless," Yoshi said, disappointed. "Wouldn't even qualify as snack. Hard pass for Yoshi."

Luigi prepared his hammer, as prescience tensed his shoulders from its icy, alarming breath. "I better take care of it before its buddies arrive!"

Luigi swung at the Shadow, but it hopped backwards. Luck offered it a bit of slack, Luigi thought. Nothing more. This would be easy. One major concussion, and they were home free. He tried a horizontal swing, but the Heartless leaped onto his head. The Shadow pushed the brim of Luigi's hat down, covering his eyes.

"Hey, get off!" Luigi said, growing annoyed. He spun around, swinging his hammer, trying to loosen the Shadow's grip. "Ti staccherò le antenne e le userò come grattaschiena, respiro all'aorta!"

Yoshi gasped. "Swinging your hammer aimlessly while enemy not in your path!? Is it the secret Mario Brothers technique!? Genius! It definitely confuse Yoshi!"

"Uh, I think he needs help," Kairi said.

"Oh, right," Yoshi said, with a sheepish smile.

Yoshi tried to grab the Heartless with his tongue, but the creature leaped over it, landing behind the two. Luigi straighten out his hat; his face had been dipped in a red vat of anger and embarrassment. Never before did he find himself struggling against a single Heartless. Worst of all, it was mere Shadow – they weren't even worth lifting a ring finger (which a ring finger could barely do in the first place) over.

"Oooooh!" Luigi said; frustration rolled up and down his spine like meandering marbles. He glowered at the Shadow. "I will smash your face into a..into a jelly!"

"Don't you mean 'into jelly?'" Kairi asked, perplexed.

"And you talk about how bad Yoshi's grammer is," Yoshi said, snickering. "Mine is no baddest in all the world."

Luigi narrowed his eyes at the dinosaur for that ironic, mangled sentence, and then focused on the Heartless. "Me messing up the English language is similar to what I'm about to do to this Heartless!"

He leaped high into the, preparing to crush the Heartless beneath his hammer. But, at the last moment, the Shadow gained impunity from life's rules by merging with the ground. Instead of a flatten Heartless, the hammer nettled the ground with a hard strike. And it responded by causing both Luigi and the hammer to shake at a rapid pace.

His teeth chattered, echoing its annoying melody throughout the room. Luigi's bones found themselves in the middle of an uncomfortable rave. Yoshi walked over to Luigi, grabbed his shoulder, and stopped the shaking; the party was brought to an unceremonious conclusion.

"Thanks," Luigi said, sighing in relief. "I needed that."

Their eyes tracked the Heartless, and widened in absolute horror upon seeing it emerge right in front of Kairi. For a moment, she reeled back in fear. She predicted it would pounce at any second. But nothing happened. Normally, a Shadow would be on all fours, back tense, fueled by the insatiate feeling of hunger. Its vicious assault could not be quelled until the heart was consumed.

However, this Heartless stood on its hind legs, relaxed, as if feeling comfortable within Kairi's personal space – a place endued with tranquility. Kairi was puzzled by this atypical behavior – it defied every term that labeled a Heartless. Soon, their eyes met, and were locked together by curiosity. The Shadow was drawn to her blue irises, and watched the reflective light bounce off of them.

A picture of a clear blue sky was painted across the Shadow's mind with halcyon watercolors. It wasn't startled by this sudden, unusual phenomenon. Familiarity stirred within its chest, like resting within a warm, bubbling whirlpool. Kairi's shoulders started to sink into a tranquil hammock. She felt a similar sense of calm around the Heartless.

In fact, it didn't assault her senses with that same brisk cold. It felt warm, like being covered with the sun's soothing rays – the same sensation she experienced back on her island. Was it possible? The idea seemed too outlandish. But intuition guided her through the jungle of doubt, towards an assuring light.

"Sora, is that you?" Kairi asked. She placed a hand on the Heartless' cheek. It made no effort to attack. She felt its weight push against her palm. Kairi's body felt light, as if negative air had been filtered out of her body. Her intuition was cogent towards only one axiom. "It has to be. Even as a Heartless, you'd never hurt me."

Luigi and Yoshi stared at her in bewildering silence, then turned to each other as if needing confirmation over what just transpired.

"Well, she has been sleeping for long time," Yoshi said, mustering a feasible answer. "Probably has lot of waking up to catch up on."

Before Luigi could respond, they were ambushed by a sudden chill. Other Shadows appeared around the group. Much to Luigi's disappointment, they didn't carry the other Shadow's affable demeanor. They were hunched on all fours, swaying back and forth; their entire existence was dictated by immense hunger for hearts.

And three hapless victims would alleviate those pangs.

Luigi trembled in fear. "And the cavalry has arrived!"

Luigi and Yoshi hurried off to fight the Shadows. A few of them started to inch towards Kairi and 'Sora,' preparing the enthusiastic spring in their step. They didn't care if another of their brethren blocked their path – all they cared about was the shimmering, pulsating prize.

Although, like any animal, the small group could sense something peculiar about the Shadow in front of Kairi. Not bound by a conscience, they were willing to strike down one of their own. Especially if it prevented them from devouring another heart.

Kairi sensed the growing danger, and leaped in front of 'Sora,' outstretching both arms. She refused to let the scion of history repeat the same unconscionable act. Carrying a verve of courage around her waist, she said, "This time, I'll protect you."

But courage alone would not hinder the Heartless' monomania for consuming a fresh, beating heart. They surrounded their prey, wiggling their fingers in delight, inching closer towards the two. Kairi felt their freezing presence start to cave in, but fortitude kept a warm sweater around her. Not once did it slip off her fair skin.

Within range of their targets, the Heartless leaped into the air, and prepared to pounce. Kairi spun around, leaned over, and hugged the Shadow with all her might. She would never let go.

"Sora!" Kairi shouted.

Kairi closed her eyes. Darkness overtook them.

Upon hearing Kairi, Luigi and Yoshi spun around to see the group of Shadows beginning their feast on her – a black, dome-shaped, grotesque ailment that marred the elegant, lime green floor. The dome pulsated in elation as the ravenous Shadows tried claiming their victims.

"Oh, no!" Luigi said, horrified.

"Kairi!" Yoshi said, in a panic.

They hurried over to break through the dome. Although the chances for survival had no conclusive evidence. Regardless, they tore up the results, letting the fragments of caution drift away into the subconscious. They would not lose another life today. Especially one that Sora cherished so much. His sacrifice would not be an appendix glossed over with indifference from time.

But before they could reach the dome, light exploded from within, knocking the Shadows away like worthless debris. The two came straight to a halt, at first bewildered. A beam of golden light had engulfed Kairi. Sparkles fluttered around the beam like elegant butterflies that just emerged from their cocoon; they were free to explore the world at their own leisure, no longer obsequious towards gravity.

Soon, the beam started fading, which gave the two a chance to peer through its luxurious, golden fabric. And what they saw caused their jaws to drop, as if absolute shock had tugged at them. Kairi still had her eyes closed. She no longer heard the intimating rustling of Heartless proclaiming their violent deprivation in her ears. Something had forced Kairi to stand up, and right now, it was embracing her.

The person was warm against her body, offering reassurance. Every tense feeling melted in the heat. Light breathing brushed against her face, caressing the goosebumps with a cloth of heat. Kairi thought her imagination concocted these sensations from a recipe of stress. But as she lingered in this person's arms, Kairi averred that it was real. Nothing would persuade that opinion.

And it soon became fact as a familiar voice said, "Kairi….thank you."

Opening her eyes, she pulled away to see Sora staring right back, donning that usual upbeat smile. Sora had no idea what happened, but seeing Kairi debased any inquires he had crafted.

"S-Sora," Kairi said, placing a hand on his cheek, needing confirmation that an illusion wasn't playing with her emotions, "is that really you?"

Sora made his famous grin. "Hope so. Know anyone else with these split ends?"

That was all the confirmation she needed. A lasso of indescribable emotions pulled her straight back into his chest, startling the boy. Relief, joy, and a bit of anger trussed itself against Kairi's stomach. Tears began their ephemeral journey down her cheeks.

"Don't you scare me like that again, you jerk!" Kairi said, her voice muffled against his chest.

Sora blushed, regained focused, and returned the embrace, with sincerity glazed across his face, reflecting an assuring light. "I promise. Cross my heart."

She pulled away from him, and their eyes met. It was a surreal sight. After all this time, they found each other. It seemed like a dream. Any moment, reality would deliver its harangue and impel them back into the waking world. But not a single sordid exclamation was heard.

They were together again. Nothing in this world could make them happier.

Kairi's emotions convalesced in a mattress of calm. All was well now. There were so many things she wanted to tell him. So did Sora. But any attempts at communication was stifled from the sudden, jubilant static of Luigi and Yoshi saying Sora's name. They sprinted right towards him without any restraint. Kairi moved aside as the two tackled him with a massive hug.

Every follicle on Sora's cheek was assaulted by Yoshi's tongue. Luigi patted his shoulder with hard slaps; so hard that he thought they'd retreat into his arms like an irate mole. But he couldn't help but laugh. Sora cherished every reunion with his friends – to capture the moment and replay it within his mind forever.

"Guys, one at a time!" Sora said, trying to douse the flames of their excitement. "I just came back from being about three feet tall! Still not all there yet!"

"When has that stopped Yoshi before!?" Yoshi asked, and he resumed licking Sora's face.

They had found their own little pocket of contentment – a place separated from the outside world, where only laughter was allowed access. It was well deserved. But they weren't able to stay there for long. Vicious creatures from the darkness were determined to arrogate their esoteric space.

Sora noticed the Heartless concourse reforming around them. "Think we can save this for later? It's time for our mandatory Heartless bashing!"

With Luigi and Yoshi nodding in agreement, the trio formed a protective circle around Kairi. Sora summoned the Keyblade to his hand. How he missed feeling its metal, durable form rest against his hand. But he wasn't the only one soaring through clear skies of nostalgia: Luigi and Yoshi felt renewed alacrity; it raised their heads up like a proud flag. Sora reminded them that nothing seemed impossible. They would escape their predicament without being expostulated by doubt.

One of the Shadows leaped straight for the group, but it was shot down by a familiar laser blast. Everyone spun around to see a familiar, fuzzy person standing on top of the fountain; smoke let out an exhale from the tip of his blaster.

"Fox!" Sora said.

"Glad you're okay!" Fox said. His expression soon turned dire. "But you need to leave now!"

"Come with us!" Sora said.

"Do you see Krystal around?" Fox asked. "Didn't think so. Not leaving without her. Hurry up! The Heartless are coming."

"Alright," Sora said, a little disappointed. But, at the same time, he understood how Fox felt. "Let's get out of here."

"Think he'll be okay?" Yoshi asked, still concerned.

Sora pet Yoshi's head, smiling. "Wouldn't have made it this far without him. I think he'll be okay."

Sora threw the Keyblade, destroying some Heartless in the process, clearing a path to the exit. And they didn't waste a single grain of sand time beseeched upon them.

Sora hoped that he and Fox would meet again soon. He could never repay him for all his help during difficult times – when hope was nothing more than fantasy.

The moment Luigi sat in the pilot's seat, muscle memory awoke from its state of lassitude, and took full command. He pressed the appropriate buttons with every thought muted, and wasted no time launching into space. The waterfall area was teeming with more Heartless than ever. They marched towards the ship, brought together by a single, primitive desire.

Fortunately, the Heartless were unable to reach the ship as it ascended into the sky. They were left behind to suffer the restless pangs of hunger. Their search for hearts began anew. Kairi gripped the arms of her seat as turbulence rumbled throughout her body like thunder. It was a strange sensation, but she endured the vibrations guitar solo.

Once they reached space, Luigi kept the ship moving at an accelerated pace. According to the radar, Heartless ships were chasing them like angry hornets. But Luigi wasn't concerned; for the desire to help his friends presented its cogent delineation. Especially since Sora was back in their lives again. Still feeling the guilt from siding with Riku, Luigi would do everything to redress those actions.

Soon enough, they had widened the gap between them and the Heartless to a massive degree. The mob no longer had their yellow eyes set on them. Luigi decreased the speed, and then began sinking into his seat (the others did the same), as if growing heavy from relief. Everything was still. The miscellaneous sounds of machinery and computers started their incomprehensible conference.

With the ship enveloped in a state of peace, Kairi focused her attention to the stars. They had never been so close, nor looked this amazing before. She couldn't stop staring – white massive, glowing dandelions etched into endless, black construction paper. Her stomach felt like a rubber band widening. Seeing the universe made her realize she was a small atom apart of something much grander.

But another sensation tugged Kairi in a different direction, and her eyes soon found themselves locked onto Sora's. They were engaged in an awkward staring contest. Words alone couldn't describe how much they missed each other; they were backed up in a line, being audition. But none, at the moment, were right for the part of verbal communication.

Still filled with strong emotions, Yoshi wanted go back and be with Sora. To expressed just how much he missed him through his own, not so subtle, method of tongue lashes. But Luigi saw the spark in his eyes; he placed a hang on the dinosaur, shaking his head. Although disappointed, Yoshi knew that Sora needed time with Kairi. There was an endless line of sentences that needed to be unloaded.

It wasn't long before Sora and Kairi both broke out into laughter, scraping away the awkward muck around them.

"Funny," Sora said. "There are so many things I couldn't wait to tell you. Now I'm drawing a blank."

"Same," Kairi said. "Hard to strike up a conversation after…well…everything. Even though I kinda know them already, maybe you can start by properly introducing me to everyone."

Sora let out a zealous grin. "Gladly! First, this is Isabelle – she's been chronically are entire journey."

"A pleasure to meet you," Isabelle said, with a cordial smile. "I hope you don't mind being apart of my journal entries. Princess Peach wants as much documented as possible." She noticed Kairi staring at her in disbelief. "D-Did I say something wrong?"

"Oh, no!" Kairi said. "It's just…I'm not used to being around a walking, talking dog."

"Oh, I hope that's not an issue," Isabelle said, becoming a bit anxious. "You're not allergic, are you? I've kept my shedding to a minimum over the years." She paused upon realizing what she said, and rubbed her forehead. "I really need to keep a button tight on the TMIs."

"It's fine," Kairi said, with a chuckle. "Not a problem at all."

"Oh, good," Isabelle said, with a sigh of relief.

Luigi walked over to Kairi, leaned over, and took her hand. "I'm-a-Luigi." He kissed the back of her hand. "Felice di conoscerti mio caro."

"Ooh, how fancy," Kairi said, giggling.

"Excuse me, Mr Fancyman," Sora said, rolling his eye from the superfluous introduction. "Who's piloting the ship?"

Luigi flinched, and responded with a nervous smile. "Would be nice if we didn't crash, huh?

"Uh, yeah," Sora said. "Wouldn't want to go from an Ace Pilot to Joker Pilot?"

Luigi and Kairi looked at each other, expressing their contempt for the verbal assault of non-humor.

"I'm so sorry," Kairi said, with sympathy shimmering in eyes.

"The fact that you understand give me hope in life," Luigi said; his face was bright with joy. "I think I found a kindred spirit. Isabelle, write this momentous occasion down!"

Sora frowned and cleared his throat. "The ship?"

"Right, right," Luigi said, waving an indifferent hand. "Don't have your multiple zippers get stuck and pinch you."

Sora rolled his eyes with a smile. Glad nothing's changed, he thought. Yoshi walked over to the two; his oval shaped eyes stirring with pride. He placed both hands on his tips. "And I Yoshi! Sora's best pal!"

"Best pal, huh?" Kairi asked, raising a playful eyebrow. "Hope you don't mind him having another best pal in the mix."

Yoshi mulled over this frivolous statement as if it were a dilemma of epic proportions. But, in reality, it was all in good fun; Yoshi responded with a joking smile. "You have permission."

"I feel so privileged," Kairi said, as she started petting Yoshi's head. She leaned into Sora's ear. "He's so cute."

"That's an understatement," Sora said. "Never ask him about the CCA."

"Cute combo attack?" Yoshi asked, having overheard. "Available at earliest convience!"

Sora pet his head, too, chuckling. "Maybe later."

"Aw," Yoshi said, moaning in disappointment. He faced Kairi. "So, was it true that your heart was in Sora's?"

"Yeah," Kairi said, pausing to reflect on the whole ordeal. Every surface was dull, making it difficult to articulate everything she had been through. "I don't understand it myself. Maybe it just felt right with him."

Sora blushed from the sudden exposure of Kairi's complimentary rays. Not helping matters was the sudden sly grin Yoshi gave him. And that was a big mistake, as the dinosaur found himself in a headlock. "You better put the teeth away, or I'mma pull each one out."

"No!" Yoshi said, laughing. "That limits food options!"

Kairi couldn't help but smile. Seeing them roughhouse made her take a lackadaisical step back in time – back to a life that didn't exhibited complicated wrinkles. She sat on the beach, feeling the warm sand tickle her feet. Sora and Riku were in front of her, engaged in one of their duels. Their voices filled the air with excitement.

She missed every lassitude moment. If only she could step through the past's windows, instead of being an onlooker. But seeing Sora and Yoshi interact kept her spirits leaned against a positive railing. She missed Riku with all her heart. Sora would agree, too. But at least there was someone in Sora's life to keep that void half full.

However, nothing could replicate the bond she, Sora, and Riku shared. Right now, it was on thin eyes; small cracks started to form. Could they be mended? The answer seemed hidden behind a haze of uncertainty. Sadness kept her heart weighted down like anchor; and the strong chains would not dilapidate anytime soon.

"Hate to break this up," Luigi said, with a firm expression on his face, "but we have work to do."

"He's right," Isabelle said. "Where do we go from here?"

"Well, we gotta seal the keyhole, of course," Sora said.

"And help other princesses," Yoshi said. He whimpered in concern. "Me hope Princess Peach okay."

Unsightly marks of reluctance formed on Luigi's face. "Easier said than done. Heartless ships must be plentiful by now. And they have no intention of letting anyone throughout without a delicious heart as payment."

"Then what can we do?" Kairi asked, being roped into the circle of hopelessness.

Sora crossed both arms, biting his lower lip, sowing seeds of ideas. One of the roots peeked out from its safe haven of lassitude, interjecting. "Let's regroup at Traverse Town. Maybe the others have some ideas."

On their way back, Kairi and the others summarized the events that transpired during Sora's absence. Ansem was still alive. Sora had an unfortunate, misshapen hunch latched to his neck. It seemed too good to be true. How ironic: Leon and the others said that he was the solution to the widespread presence of the Heartless. But, in truth, he was part of the problem – if not outright the problem itself.

Seems like they'd have to improvise and concoct their own solution.

But he was hesitant in telling them about Ansem's betrayal. They held onto his belies like a security blanket – it provided them comfort. But, now, they'd watch it get torn to shreds from such a heartbreaking revelation. Especially Leon, who was still of the notion that he could redeem himself after failing to protect his home. It would cause him to collapse from the inside.

Upon arriving in Traverse Town, the group headed to the Third District, went up to the small house, and reunited with their friends. Introductions were shared with Kairi. She was grateful for their help in guiding Sora in the right direction. Then again, she wasn't surprised that Sora had made so many new friends in such a short span of time. It was a trait that he donned every waking day. Nothing could tear it off of him.

She was so glad that he never changed.

Once everyone was situated, Sora began his story (for the moment, he omitted Ansem. Maybe because he needed their input without disruption. Or, maybe guilt was holding him back from unveiling this earth-shattering revelation). The others listened without even a small hint of disruptive noise. Their eyes did all of the work, displaying a plethora of conflating emotions.

"So the darkness is flowing out of the keyhole," Leon said, after Sora finished.

"No wonder there are more and more Heartless everywhere," Aerith said, showing concern. "The only way to stop them is—"

"Seal the keyhole, right?" Sora asked.

Leon lingered on Sora's assumption for a second, peering down each avenue. "Maybe. But no one knows what will happen once it's sealed."

The shadow of Aerith's worry loomed over Kairi. "But if we leave it unlocked—"

"Things will spiral out of control." Leon closed his eyes, trying to keep the shutters of a grim imagination from opening. He opened his eyes, staying in the present, instead of the future. "Sora, you have to do what you feel is right."

"Yeah," Sora said; he had chosen his answer without delay. "I have to go back! What else can we do? Besides, I have a friend back there! I won't leave him!"

"I figured you would," Leon said, not surprised by that immutable determination.

"Not only him," Luigi said. "The other princesses are still there, too."

"Probably still napping in big room," Yoshi said.

"Not necessarily," Leon said. "Riku's Keyblade must have been born of the captive princesses' hearts—just like that Keyhole you saw. When it was destroyed, their hearts should've been freed."

Luigi sighed, feeling a bit inspired. "Then hopefully they're safe somewhere."

Although Sora would do whatever it took to save Riku, the task was still daunting. Leon noticed him looking distrait.

"Don't worry, Sora," Leon said, placing a reassuring hand on the boy's shoulder. "I know you'll figure out a way to save Riku. Despite everything that's happened, you never gave up on him. And I know you never will."

Sora nodded, as confidence was snapped back into place, having almost slipped off from self- deterrence. "Even if I have to plummet into the deepest darkness."

Kairi felt herself growing light with contentment; every concern she had over Sora and Riku's relationship started to melt. Despite everything that happened, Sora never gave up on him. His loyalty to Riku hadn't been stamped with a toxic mark of resentment. He knew that thoughtful, compassionate person still whispered beneath the jealous noise. It gave her hope that maybe, if possible, things could go back to normal one day.

Nothing would make her happier.

"I suggest seeing Cid about how to deal with the Heartless ships," Leon said.

Before Sora could open his mouth, a reminder flicked at his chest, making him flinch in guilt. He couldn't keep the secret lodge in his throat anymore. Already it was starting to ache. "Oh, before I forget: there's one more thing I need to mention."

Sora could feel the sharpness of the next sentence slide across his tongue. He told Leon and the others everything: each alarming word stretched their eyes further in shock. Emotional pangs struck at their stomachs with the force of a javelin. Yet, their minds wouldn't acquiesce with this news, as if to belie the sudden despair from taking hold.

"It can't be," Aerith said, covering her mouth, shocked. "He was a wise sage. His intentions were never malicious."

Leon squeezed both arms together, trying to release the tight pressure in his chest. He glanced out the window, in deep thought. Sora couldn't even imagine what was thrashing through his mind like a panic attack. It must've hurt. Especially to hold onto something that deteriorated into a rotten lie. No matter what you did, the stench would remain forever.

"Please," Yuffie said, scoffing. "I don't believe that for a second. Some kook has to be posing as him!"

To everyone's surprise, Leon turned back to the them, appearing focus, as if the revelation was a dilatory. Although he didn't want to admit it, Leon learned something valuable from his time with Sora: the answers we seek won't always be in the past. Sometimes, they're in the future, ready to be discovered. And he had to believe that there was a bright future for all of them.

"Regardless," Leon said, "he has to be stopped before his plans can come to fruition."

"Leave it to us!" Sora said, trying to prevent hope from closing its dour tomb. "He seems to be the cause of everything. We'll make him regret messing us."

Leon smiled. He had his doubts about Sora at first. But, overtime, he finally understood why the Keyblade chose him as its master.

"Is that a smile on Leon's face?" Yuffie asked, taken aback by this rare moment. "Holy heck! It is! Luck is going to be on my side when Cid and I have our poker game later."

"Was it something I said?" Sora asked, confused.

Leon chuckled, placing a firm hand on Sora's shoulder. "I remember when we first met. You never backed down despite the odds. Looks like that hasn't changed."

Sora smiled. And he never intended to lose that fighting spirit. Despite being reunited, it was too dangerous for Kairi to travel with the others (much to her displeasure). But Sora promised he'd be back once they completed some errands (with Cid taking priority). Kairi complied, despite some minor hesitation.

The image of her losing him not too long ago remained embedded in Kairi's head. She couldn't bare to witness an encore performance.

Sora, Luigi, and Yoshi walked down the ramp towards the door to the First District. There was no time for rest, irrespective of the pleas clamoring within their bodies. But their minds kept looking ahead, past any cobwebs of uncertainty. They had to seal the keyhole. It may be their only chance to stop the Heartless assault.

As Sora approached the exit, Luigi called his name, and he spun around. There was an expression on Luigi's face that spelled out contradicting words of gratefulness and sadness. "I'm happy to have you with us again. Nothing felt…the same without you. I don't know how I could've lived with the notion."

"Aw, thanks," Sora said, rubbing his head. "I feel the same way. Let's be honest: an adventure would mean nothing without you two."

Luigi glanced over at Yoshi, and chuckled upon noticing joyful tears forming in the dinosaur's eyes. "And I guess you can tell I'm not alone in that statement. Had to hold him back while you caught up with Kairi.

"Probably your best attempt yet," Sora said, grinning.

Sora outstretched his arms. On cue, Yoshi ran right into the boy's chest, burying his face in it, letting out loud sobs that would've waken the neighborhood. And he didn't stop, not for a long time. He held onto Sora with all his might, afraid that someone would take him away again. Luigi soon joined in the hug, too; he assisted Yoshi in keeping their friend grounded to the earth.

Today, they had faced many overwhelming challenges – ones that tested their skills and very friendship. But, despite it all, their vow of 'All for one…' didn't die.

And it never will.

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