Chapter 71: The Promise

After an eventful reunion, the group departed for the First District to see Cid. A deluge of loose ends caused an incommode, dangling overhead. They wouldn't surcease moving back and forth like a pendulum; at least, not until Sora found a way cut down each one. Although he ignored their obtrusive presence for the moment.

He was happy to be back in the land of the living again. Every familiar sight and sound regaled his senses. His experience as a Heartless were less than stellar. It obviated everything that made him human. He felt empty and alone – something he had always dreaded experiencing. To never be in the pleasant company of his friends again.

It was a fate he effaced without second thought.

Being alive made him appreciate everything around him. He missed the gentle breeze's inviting tone whisper in his ears. Or see the bright, variegated neon lights from the buildings be absorbed into his retinas, like the sensational glow from the warm sunlight. But, without a doubt, being with his friends again mattered the most. Luigi and Yoshi assented that truism.

During their walk, they would give each other occasional glances (especially Yoshi), filled with gaiety over being together again. Words alone couldn't delineate those sensations. Still, they were forced to accede to the truth that life remained incipient; there mission was far from being surmounted. Especially since the people they cared for still perambulated throughout the ineffable, interminable highway of space.

Sora circumvented any expostulation that tried convincing him Riku was gone forever. His stomach tightened; he wouldn't accept such a disheartening notion. Anything in this world was possible. He reunited with Kairi again despite the odds balking with success, and would find a way to reenact it. Sora kept positivity tucked between his arms, although the undercurrent of worry would sometimes nudge against it.

At the moment, though, his rescue efforts would languor without succor from Cid. Upon meeting up with him, Sora explained their current predicament.

Cid's response was rather laconic: "Afraid I can't let you do that."

"Aw," Yoshi said, trying to conciliate Cid with the cutest expression. His oval shaped eyes were scintillating. "Pwease."

Cid frowned, implacable. "If you want to get evaporated into space dust, be my guest. You won't survive against that many Heartless."

"W-What?" Yoshi asked, taken aback. He glanced at his hands, in complete disbelief. "It impossible. How…Yoshi's powers fail? Can he not penetrate the fortress of grumpiness?"

Sora noticed Cid glowering at Yoshi, and slid in front of the dinosaur, stomping out infinitesimal flames before they could rise. "So what can we do?"

"Simple," Cid said, as changing the subject defused his temper. "Go around 'em instead of through. A new navigation Labo should do the trick."

Sora felt the weight of dejection pushing down on him like gravity, descending towards the harsh, concrete ground. Where were they to find another Labo piece? Sora couldn't afford to let time taper away from him. Darkness was growing stronger within the final keyhole; if nothing was done, it would spread across the galaxy like a plague, eroding each intergalactic body part to the point of nonexistence.

But, on a personal level, Riku would lose what little of himself he had left to Ansem – a servile cog in the machine that's only function was to provide life for another. Sora couldn't live with the idea of his best friend being nothing more than a utilitarian object.

Cid saw concern bedim Sora's lineament, and responded with a reassuring grin. "Hey. No worries. I'll save you the gas mileage this time. There's one hidden in the secret waterway. When I came here nine years ago, I stored it there in case I ever needed it. Never thought a kid would be the one to use."

Sora's face brightened in hope. Cid just ameliorated their chance to make things right. Sora was fortunate every day to be in the company of good people. They were the gestalt of his motivation.

"Thanks, gramps!" Sora said, patting his back with a conflation of appreciation and jest (for the 'kid' remark). "We'll put it to good use!"

Luigi leaned back in fear from Sora calling Cid 'gramps.' He expected a harangue to smack Sora right upside the head. But, to everyone's surprise, the venerable mechanic let out a good-natured smirk.

"Heh, can't even get mad at you for that one," Cid said. "Kinda deserved it. But be careful. Place is swamped with Heartless. Why I'm still out here is beyond me. Call it stubbornness, I suppose." He gave the three a warning glare. "But call it insanity, and you'll see what true madness looks like. Capeesh?"

"A-Absolutely," Luigi said, aggrieved. "Some things are best left open ended, as they say."

Sora and Yoshi rolled their eyes in unison. Wouldn't be an average day without a heaping portion of Luigi's cowardice. After Cid gave the three instructions to find the Labo piece, they headed towards water, ignoring any remonstrance from respite. But the Heartless were determined to delay their mission by widening the gap of time.

Although the quantity of Heartless increased, they could not penetrate the gamut of the trio's quality teamwork. With Sora back, fighting the Heartless became mundane again. Their strength was insurmountable. Yoshi felt confident in himself – no battle seemed impossible with Sora around. But, after the experience in losing Sora for an ephemeral amount of time, he had to believe in his own skills, too.

Regardless, the Heartless remained indefatigable. More would appear as the three hurried to the waterway. Irrespective of defeating each wave, fatigue was starting to cajole them to rest. But they would remain taciturn towards its presence. It wasn't too long before they reached the entrance to the waterway, still in one piece, but filling the quiet streets with loud, incongruous panting.

Yoshi saw the leg deep water in front of him; it was like a red carpet rolled out specifically for him, with the intention of causing distress. His courage became an immemorial statue covered in vines of fear. Aquaphobia had made its content statement to illicit irrational paralysis in the dinosaur's body.

"Great," Yoshi said, slumping his shoulders, exasperated. "Water. Why fate always have to get long piece of the wishbone?"

"Well, it's called a 'waterway' for a reason," Sora said, chuckling.

The two heard running feet splash against the water, disrupting its quiescent sunbathing of neon lights that reflected off the translucent skin. Sora saw that those sounds were coming from Luigi; he hurried into tunnel, leaving behind a trail of ripples.

At first, Sora was perplexed by Luigi's sudden departure. But realization soon trussed itself around his head, and he glowered at the tunnel where Luigi vanished. "Hey!"

He turned to Yoshi, who began quivering his lower lip at him. His oval shaped eyes widened, glowing brighter than the back alleyway itself. Sora sighed in defeat. No amount of remonstrance could resist Yoshi's adorable lineament. Sora had moved up in the world from errand boy to chauffer – a dubious approbation. He wasn't sure how his back would handle the prodigious honor.

Still, he was happy things were somewhat back to normal. Emphasis on: "somewhat" when being around Luigi and Yoshi. And he'd never want an aberration to destroy that dynamic again.

Kairi stood in the heart of tunnel, where Leon and his friends normally resided during their time of leisure. She looked around the vicinity in awe, photographing each sight with her mind's eyes. To some, being alone in this place might be intimidating. But wanderlust kept her from veering down that errant path.

It was mysterious and new to her. The gentle sounds of dripping water nuzzled against her inner ear. Her sedulous eyes scanned every detail of the rocky walls and ceilings. But they were soon drawn to a beautiful mural located ahead of her. It was a picture of the sun; behind it was the bright blue sky. Clouds were scares, allowing the majestic star to show its imperious details.

Being in a cave with pictures on the wall reminded Kairi of home. Nostalgia had wrapped itself tight around her like a shawl. She should be happy to be seeing new places. But this wasn't the perfect picture she had developed; it was overexposed, filled with unpleasant scratches. She pined for home. In times of distress, it provided safety and comfort – an inexpressive, yet protective guardian.

But she couldn't become content in her sojourn of halcyon recollection. Not when she had been imbibed with long forgotten memories of her past. She was baffled by how they unearthed themselves from within the subconscious. Did residing within Sora's heart somehow trigger their awakening?

Regardless, there was one specific memory she couldn't stop ruminating over – a piece of her past that elicited contradictory emotions of joy and sadness. But these memories became timorous before the sudden echo of water splashing throughout the tunnel. Fight or flight radiated in her vision with a red aura.

But it became debased by the sound of a familiar, easygoing voice. "Kairi?"

"Sora?" Kairi asked, spinning around in surprise.

She turned to see the three approaching her. Luigi was enjoying a jovial stroll through the water. Which, Sora couldn't partake in, as he had a certain green dinosaur on his back – the boy grunted as he struggled from collapsing like dominos. Yoshi just smiled in contentment, having been liberated of aquaphobia's imprecations.

Kairi did her best to refrain from laughing. But a small grin, replete with curiosity, opened the lips like window blinds. "Seems like you're traveling for two.

"Man, thank goodness Yoshi opted out for that second ribeye today, huh?" Luigi said, with a playful smirk.

Sora replied with a frown.

"Sora a smooth ride," Yoshi said.

"Thanks for the review," Sora said, grunting. They were close to dry land. "Okay. Think this is as far the chauffeur is willing to go."

Yoshi hoped off the boy's back, ran over to Kairi, and began his paroxysm of licking. Her laughter echoed throughout the vicinity. Hearing that familiar sound made Sora forget about the back pain for a moment; it reminded him of simpler times, when he and Kairi would use to play throughout the vast playground of their island.

How he missed her presence.

"Sorry," Sora said, chuckling. "He never learned how to say hello."

Kairi managed to push Yoshi off of her, and started wiping away the salvia. "Considering his lack of personal space, I'd say he had a good teacher."

Sora grinned and placed both hands behind his head.

"What are doing here?" Luigi asked.

"Was too stuffy at Leon's place," Kairi said. "Wanted to explore a little bit. They recommended coming here. Yuffie provided me a safe route to travel. What about you guys?"

Sora noticed the mural. "We're looking for a Labo piece to fly back to that castle. Cid said he hid it behind there."

"Oh, really?" Kairi asked, surprised. "Never would've guessed. Was distracted by the artistry."

Everyone but Yoshi approached the mural. Sora slid his fingers across the wall, until uncovering a loose brick. He pulled it out, revealing a secret compartment containing the Labo piece. Sora pocketed it, and they walked back towards dry land, where Yoshi waited for them.

"Cid is quite the innovator," Luigi said, impressed. "And artist, too. Although I won't say this piece is reflective of his…personality."

"Me say!" Yoshi said, in sudden annoyance. "He immune to Yoshi's cuteness. Perhaps the puckering needs work."

Luigi rolled his eyes, sighing. "Would you stop worrying about that?"

"You really have been in good company, huh?" Kairi asked, whispering in Sora's ear.

"Yep," Sora said, smiling. "Never would've made it this far without them. I don't even know the definition of boredom anymore."

"We better hurry back to Cid before he gets suspicious the sudden ringing in his ears came from us," Luigi said.

Sora's eyes met with Kairi's; they conveyed every word she wanted to utter. Turning to his friend, Sora said, "You guys go on. Want to catch up with Kairi for a few."

"Sure thing." Luigi walked towards the water, then stopped as realization hit his skull like a gong. "Oh, wait." His back trembled like a tightrope from Yoshi's great weight. "No. This is fine."

"Be sure to get a few scoops of ice cream on the way back, Yoshi," Sora said, retaliating against Luigi's earlier quip with a teasing smile.

Luigi groaned as he struggled to maintain balance. "Glad to see your sense of humor's still inadequate as ever. C'mon, Yoshi."

Luigi trudged through the waters towards the exit. Once again, Yoshi enjoyed the ride for a chance instead of giving them (although he was still adamant in Sora being the 'smoother ride.'). Upon getting a decent distance away from Sora and Kairi, Luigi wended off the path, and hid behind a corner; he peaked out from it, spying on the two.

"What are you doing?" Yoshi asked, bewildered.

"Shh!" Luigi said, waving an arm. "Quiet!"

Him and Yoshi turned to watch the interaction between Sora and Kairi. Luigi wondered if they would enact a certain gesture. He wanted to witness firsthand – to be supportive towards their relationship. They wanted him to experience true happiness. He deserved it for remaining assiduous against the onerous morass conceived by the Heartless.

"A light at the end of the tunnel," Kairi said.

Sora spun around to see she had sat on the floor; her blue eyes were still focused on the mural. The painting had fished out her deepest memories again; they dangled in front her, as a reminder of their existence.

Sora sat next to her, seeing her memory's shadow. "Your grandma's story, right?"

"Yeah." Kairi turned to him with a raised eyebrow. "How much of my memories did you see?"

Panic ignite his skin with a fiery blush. "It was a freak thing, I promise."

"Just kidding with ya," Kairi said, giggling.

Sora responded with a playful nudge to her shoulder. Despite everything that happened, Sora was elated that nothing had changed between the two of them. At least, somewhat. This journey didn't have a predilection towards giving them an impunity. They were forced to wear the lenses of the adult world – to experience the hard decisions or sacrifices made on a regular basis.

It was hard to swallow such a harrowing notion, but they continued sailing within that estrogenic raft of youthful idealism, pushing against the rough current.

But, on occasion, the rough waves of reality would splash against them. Sora's expression became sincere. "One thing's for sure: you really carerd for her."

"When I was asleep," Kairi said, squeezing both arms against her knees, trying to compress the plaintive noise in her head, "those memories just came back. I don't even know what happened to her. I miss her so much."

Sora could see the immense sadness pour from her like a stream. It hit the rocks, producing an elegiac melody. Despite being reunited, their mood was still under the perversion of despair. They were still suffering from a plethora of different reasons. Instinct nudge the two of them closer together. Sora wrapped his arm around her; she rested her head upon his chest. They were in a protective dome of warmth and support. Right now, it was needed; they were the only vestiges of their island left breathing.

Kairi felt his chest expand and deflate like a wave. It cradled her into a sense of security. Nothing else mattered. There were no problems in her life. She was in the company of someone close. Sora couldn't concur more. She reminded him of why he continued to fight: to revitalize the peaceful life he once cherished. She was the buttress they kept him from tottering over in a hurricane of vacillation.

They wanted this moment to be immutable. But they had to fain before reality's exigencies, despite being magnetized in their embrace.

"Are you going to be okay?" Sora asked, bringing an inconstant in the form of his voice into the silent dome.

Kairi let out a soft sigh. "Yeah. I'm just happy to be with you again."

"Funny," Sora said, with a small exhale of amusement. "We were never really apart. I looked everywhere for you, but you were with me all along." She looked up at him. They both stared right into each other's eyes again. "Although, nothing can beat seeing you face to face. I can't even begin to describe how much I missed you."

He squeezed his hand against her. Sora rested his chin on top of her head. They never wanted to let go. Especially over the fear of being separated again. But unfinished business ascribed to making this moment impossible to enjoy. They were still incomplete. Fragment of their life continued floating throughout the universe. And they would remain forsaken without action.

"Sora," Kairi said, with hesitation pushing against her throat. She knew they needed to discuss the most important piece absent from their life. "When I saw your memories, I saw the ones of you and…Riku."

"Oh." Sora could feel his chest grow heavy. He knew the conversation would take shape eventually. Which was why he prepared an axiom in advance: "It wasn't his fault. The darkness messed with his head."

"Yeah. I know," Kairi said, as the memory of Riku assisting in their escape flashed before her eyes.

The two broke their long embrace. Sora stood up, stretching out his arms. "Well, now it's time to get him back."

"How?" Kairi asked. "By now he must've lost his…"

But Sora stared at her with a look of determination. Not a single grain of doubt protruded from its bright form. "When I turned into a Heartless, you saved me, remember?"

He glanced out at the mural, remembering his unpleasant stay in darkness. The feeling caused his bones to tremble. Loneliness was the ultimate catalyst for suffering.

But he continued, to enumerate his position: "I was lost in the darkness. I couldn't find my way out. I started forgetting things – my friends, who I was. The darkness almost swallowed me. But then I heard a voice – your voice." He turned back to her. "You brought me back."

"I didn't want to just forget about you, Sora. I couldn't."

Sora's eyes lit up, struck by an epiphany. "That's it! Our hearts are connected. And the light from our hearts broke through the darkness. I saw that light. I think that's what saved me."

"And you think that'll save Riku?" Kairi asked, hopeful.

Sora grinned in confidence. "Without a doubt! No matter how deep the darkness, a light shines within. Guess it's more than just a fairy tale."

Sora always knew how to engender her with confidence. Once he set his mind on something, nothing would stop him. It was a characteristic she found most endearing about him. She wasn't infected by the thoughts of disinclination. Sora always provided inspiriting doses of hope. It prevented the time tough times tried from cozening her with despairing thoughts. She knew that he would rewrite the story with a happy ending – one where they'd all be together on the islands again.

She always believed in him. Even when they first met.

Espoused by zealous ambition, Kairi stood up, saying, "Well, let's go!"

"You can't go," Sora said.

Kairi's expression faltered from disappointment. "Why not?"

"Because it's too dangerous," Sora said.

But Kairi wouldn't concede to the argument. "C'mon, Sora. We made it this far by sticking together. You can't go alone."

"Kairi," Sora said, a bit firm, "even if we're apart, we're not alone anymore. Right?" Kairi's frown grew longer, as if melting off her fate from the heat of his excuse. He rubbed his head, sheepish. "Yeah, you're not buying that, huh?"

Kairi smirked, and wrapped an arm around him. "I know you're hiding the real reason." She gave him a playful punch in the shoulder. "You're afraid I'll get hurt again."

"I'm that easy to read, huh?" Sora said, chuckling.

"You sure I can't help at all?" Kairi asked.

"You'd kinda get in my way."

She sighed in defeat, closing her eyes. "Okay. You win." Kairi pulled out the trinket she worked on before they left the island, and placed it in Sora's hand. "It's my lucky charm. Be sure to bring it back to him."

Sora glanced at the trinket. Made from the Thalassa Shells of his island, it formed a perfect five-point star. The craftmanship was immaculate. It reminded him of the paopu fruit from back home – a symbol that tied two people together. Sora smiled; she gave him a piece of her to be a guardian. To provide him with encouragement when he needed it most.

It warmed his heart to know how much she cared for him. The feeling was mutual. It was just another reason that inspired him to rekindle the life of yesteryear – where they were back on their island, looking out at the golden sunset without hefting the burden of worry.

"Never fret, Kairi," Sora said, in a faux Irish accent. "I'll be sure that no one gets your lucky charm."

Kairi burst into laughter. "You are such a cornball!"

"Would you expect anything less?" Sora asked.

"Not in a million years," Kairi said.

"But don't worry," Sora said, sincere. "I'll bring it back."

"Promise?"

The two walked closer to each other.

"Promise," Sora said.

Their faces were close. Sora could see the pours on her fair skin. Her blue eyes were ornate from the reflective glow of the water. Their heartrate started to increase. They had never been this close to each other. But not a single string of fear tugged them backwards. This was what they wanted most. Desire wrapped its amorphous form around them.

"Don't ever forget," Kairi said in a gentle tone. "Wherever you go, I'll always be with you."

They leaned in for the moment that would change their lives. Their breathing grew heavy. Sora felt her breath press against his lips in excitement. They were so close…

…until startled by a loud splash. The two spun around to see Luigi had collapsed from Yoshi's great weight, and they fell into the water. Luigi's moustache drooped from the water rummaging through each hair. Sora, in annoyance, cleared his throat, and the two stared at him, frozen like frightened animals.

"It was his idea!" Yoshi said, pointing at Luigi; he responded with a look of reproach. "Hey, all for one applies here, pal!"

Sora took a sharp inhale. "Five second head-start."

As Sora started counting down, Luigi and Yoshi looked at each other in a panic, and then booked it towards the exit. Upon hitting one, Sora sprinted right after them; he wasn't going to let them get away with ruining the mood (although it was in all good fun). Kairi broke down into hysterical laughter. Sora was right; never a dull moment with Luigi and Yoshi.

She wanted to be apart of every exciting adventure. But Sora was right; she had to let him focus on the task at hand. Kairi wasn't one for fighting, unlike Sora and Riku, who relished in every challenge put in front of them. All she could do was put her trust in him. She knew he'd succeed. Doubt could never impel her fortified faith.

"Come back safe," Kairi said.

No matter how long it took, she would wait for his inevitable return.

He had been situated in his new home. Although it was anything but quaint – not when the walls were adorned with darkness. The air was still. Not even a small breeze whispered comforting sounds in his ear. The only other tenant that occupied this massive space was his own thoughts, upbraiding him every second.

And he deserved every invective. Being trapped within the deepest darkness seemed to have brought about clarity. Every mistake was acknowledged – he had caused so much misery to everyone. Regret tore through his soul, creating a laceration that would never close. He was forced to glance at it, being reminded of his untoward actions.

Even if he were to escape his fate, was there any point in trying to redress everything? Could those he cared for push aside the unconscionable dross and extend a tender hand of forgiveness?

It seemed impossible, Riku thought. How could anyone be amenable in giving him that option? He had caused irredeemable damage.

"Sora…Kairi…I'm sorry….I deserve all of this."

If not for a lone white trail in front of him, Riku's vision would have been painted by darkness' long, omnipresent brush. He followed the path, trying to deduce his whereabouts. Not that it mattered. Being alone in this depressing place was his punishment for all the grief he caused.

"Is this the afterworld?" Riku asked. "Surprised they'd open their gates for someone like me."

Riku stumbled forward, and kneeled over, as if all control in his body had been relinquished. A white aura soon surrounded him. He started feeling light, like his entire being was about to vanish – that he would soon expire. But perseverance kept the second hand from its perpetual journey.

Riku took a deep breath, clenching his fist. "I'm not ready. Not yet. Not until I see Sora and Kairi one last time."

The aura around him vanished. He managed to rise to his feet; what he desired seemed impossible. But, at the very least, knowing they were safe would ameliorate some of his inner turmoil.

It was all he could ask for, at this point.

Before he could ruminate over his next course of action, a voice called out to him from the darkness: "Hang on, Riku! I'll be there soon!"

Startled, Riku spun around, only to be greeted by darkness again. He was on edge. Was this an illusion fabricated from the stage of his mind?

"Who's there!?" Riku asked.

"Don't-a-worry." The voice belonged to a man. Strangely, he sounded akin to Luigi, except with a higher pitched tone. But the Italian accent was unmistakable. "I'm-a-here to help. See, I have the other Keyblade—the one that belongs to this world."

Riku appeared baffled. "What are you talking about?"

"Mama-mia," the man said, with a heavy sigh. "It's a long story, but right now I'm trying to reach out to you. Afraid the darkness in your heart is keeping me away."

There was a gentle, cordial tone in the man's voice. Every word was trussed together with sincerity. Something about this person seemed trustworthy. Riku didn't know if this was still a hallucination created by the darkness to deceive him. But, regardless, it was nice to hold a conversation with someone again. Even though the man's purpose here was recondite.

"Who are you?" Riku asked. "What's happened to me?"

"Your heart won the battle against the darkness, but it was too late for your body. That's why you're here—in the place of darkness where hearts are gathered."

Riku reflected on this information. Made sense, he thought. It didn't deter him in the slightest. He knew his punishment wouldn't be a mere slap on the wrist. "Guess that answers one of my questions. Isn't there anything I can do?"

Silence responded, as if stalling for time as the man struggled for a sufficient answer.

"All we can do is wait," the man said, after looking through a docket of possible replies. "The Door to Darkness will open soon, but it's a door we can't enter. If we don't close it, our entire existence will be nothing but darkness. It'll be game over forever. I do know that, in order to close it, two keys and two hearts are needed. Maybe you're here for the same reason I am. Maybe it was fate."

Riku let out a soft chuckle. "Fate, huh? You seem to know everything, don't you? Tell me: are Sora and Kairi okay?"

"Take a moment and feel out the echoes of their hearts. You know the answer already."

Riku closed his eyes. For a moment, darkness stared at him with its inexpressive countenance. Anxiety started flowing into the chambers of heart, swirling faster and faster – it got to the point that he heard his heartbeat pound in his head. But, the sound soon eroded when familiar laughter reverberated throughout his mind, tickling it with delight.

Two figures started coming into view. At first, they were blurry. However, he could identify them: one was red; the other was pink. They were running right towards him; their laughter disposed of the anxious waste in his chest. He felt at ease. They were coming into view, as if ready to enjoy another fun day on their island.

Seeing Sora and Kairi again was all the confirmation he needed. After a long time of lamenting, he was able to smile again.

"Okay. Thank you."

With the new navigation piece in hand, Sora and his friends returned to see Cid. He didn't waste any time and headed over to begin the instillation process. Luigi and Yoshi noticed an impatient expression on Sora. He could hear the ticking of time shout in his ear, reminding him of Riku's fate. But he knew nothing could be done right now. The thought of Riku still under Ansem's influence grinded against his stomach. It would continue to accrue the longer they waited.

Luigi suggested that they run some errands to keep themselves preoccupied. Sora couldn't acquiesce harder if he tried. Unfortunately, their efforts to locate Pikmin and ship pieces were swerving around in a gutter, which caused Sora to become distrait. Olimar and Louie's lives were still on time's life support system. If they didn't locate any more pieces, the plug would be pulled.

Sora couldn't afford losing more friends.

Yoshi reminded everyone about the summon stone they won from fighting Bowser, and decided to pay Mia a visit. Sora sighed; any progress was better than none at all, he thought. Still, once they had the ship again, Sora would work harder than ever to make everything was right in his life. He was given a second chance to do so; there was no way he'd waste it.

Upon arriving at Kraden's house, Sora presented the new stone to Mia. She examined it, with an expression that bloomed into one of bewilderment.

"What's wrong?" Sora asked.

Mia opened her mouth, projecting the sounds of silence. She then closed it, pondering over a possible explanation; none would volunteer their services towards a coherent description. "There's something…fascinating about this one. It's hard to delineate. Perhaps summoning him would be ideal."

She transformed the stone into the usual glass dome. Sudden excitement pinched Sora's cheeks. The vagueness of this person hoisted up his curiosity like a variegated flag; it flashed with loud, zealous colors. But Luigi saw Mia's observation as a presage for trouble. Already he was measuring the distance between himself and the exit (a skill he has honed and mastered over his life).

Sora raised the dome into the air; it exploded into giant, red smoke, enveloping the room in an intimidating mist. Everyone coughed as the smoke tried infiltrating their lungs.

"Note to self," Kraden said, between coughs. "Consider summoning these lost hearts outside going forward. My house can't contend with the madness much longer."

The smoke soon drifted onto the ground, forming an ominous red carpet. Everyone scanned the vicinity to locate the new visitor. Luigi spun around, and saw a shadow rise from the floor. It was an egg-shaped anomaly with giant, ear shaped wings that spread out from each side of the head. The shadow grew bigger, looming over Luigi as if he was nothing more than morsel that was a part of its repast.

Absolute horror and fear left Luigi paralyzed. Scavenging for even a crumb of courage, Luigi started smacking Sora on the back of his neck, to get his attention. Words were derelict, strewn throughout his throat, unable to form coherent sentences. Sora turned around, only to receive additional smacks in the face.

He grabbed Luigi's arm, shoving it away from him. "Hey, cut it out! Why are you—?"

Sora soon noticed the intimidating shadow, and felt himself being tugged back by apprehension. At first, he thought a Heartless had invaded Kraden's home. But he extrapolated that it wasn't one, because the temperature remained in a state of torpor. Sora didn't know if he should find this concerning.

The shadow let out a loud, ravenous growl, and spoke with a loud, booming, male voice, "Who has awakened the mighty Riki from his slumber?"

Luigi took a few steps back, standing next to Sora; the wind-up key of terror continued its endless cycle in his chest.

"D-Don't be rude," Luigi said, elbowing Sora. "Greet our new friend with an apology. Get on your hands and knees for more gravitas."

Sora rolled his eyes. "Boy, you sure have a loose definition in your head of 'All for one' sometimes."

"Speak!" Riki said, growing restless "Speak before Riki!"

Sora took a courageous step forward. Riki sounded important – the type of person that was respected, and would let out an intense scorn for misbehavior. Even Sora felt unease by his massive presence. Sora assumed that he'd be a stalwart ally to their team. First, he had to gain Riki's trust and respect. Sora had done so with royalty, and was confident he could leave a favorable impression.

"Yeah. Um, hi there," Sora said.

"Why you wake Riki so soon?" Riki asked, sounding displeased. "Could've used five more minutes! Have thorn-head boy no respect!?"

"Sorry," Sora said, ignoring the insult, trying to remain respectful. "We didn't know, sir. You were just brought back to life."

The smoke cleared, which allowed Yoshi to smell the air again without interruption from the harsh scent of carbon dioxide. He detected an inconstant in the flow of the room. A new smell had joined the concourse of familiar ones. Yoshi began following the trail, and it led him to a large bookshelf. He noticed movement coming from behind it.

"So me see," Riki said, in contemplation. "Well, me very hungry! Riki demand his appetite be satisfied! Bring me as much food as you can. Maybe then Riki consider you sidekicks!"

Luigi looked at Riki in disbelief. "Where are we doing to find food this minute?"

"You deny heropon a full belly!?" Riki said, shouting at Luigi, causing him to fall onto ground.

Standing up in a panic, Luigi said, "Okay, boys! Let's-a-get to checking those cabinets!"

"Excuse me?" Kraden said, crossing his arms, giving Luigi a reproving expression. "You will do no such thing!"

Luigi grabbed Kraden's shoulders, still abiding to the requisition of fear. "You don't understand! He may consider us his snack if we don't comply. He probably thinks your beard is white rice right now."

Before Kraden could respond, they heard sounds of Riki struggling against someone. They turned to see another shadow (that looked like a certain green dinosaur) tackling Riki. Everyone watched in confused silence as the shadow brawl continued. Both shadows soon started shrinking; Yoshi backed out from the shelf, pulling 'someone' along with him, who protested to no end.

The dinosaur held up the being with both hands, revealing it to be Riki's true appearance – a roughly two feet egg-shaped creature with orange fur and bright red cheeks. He wore a sleeveless purple vest; on his stomach was some type of badge that had four point.

The little creature squirmed in Yoshi's hands. "Put me down, baby dinobeast! Me will get mildly annoyed if you don't!"

"Look!" Yoshi said, in glee. "He cute and marketable like Yoshi! Can we keep him? Please? Please?"

Riki stopped struggling upon feeling an uncomfortable heat slide against his fur like a rake. He looked to see everyone glaring at him. Luigi had his arms crossed; his visage was scrunched from the sour taste of ire.

"Do not fret, friends!" Riki said, feigning triumphant. "Shadow monster vanquished thanks to mighty heropon! With some help from new sidekick: baby dinobeast!"

Yoshi's frowned. "Who you calling dinobeast?"

But nobody bought his purport. Their stares continued to shine an uncomfortable spotlight on Riki. All the creature could do was respond with a sheepish grin, unsure of how to diffuse the situation.

"So who else hungry?" Riki asked, letting out an awkward, hearty laugh. "Hunger always breaks awkward moments, right?"

Sora couldn't help but roll his eyes with a smile. Riki seemed friendly enough and meant no harm. One thing was certain, though: every person he had met on his journey was beyond memorable. They always provided new, interesting experiences for him. He was fortunate enough to be standing in this room today – to be in the company of such wonderful individuals.

Every moment he was grateful that Kairi never gave up on him after becoming a Heartless; it would inspire him to extend that same mindset towards Riku.

Kraden prepared various dishes for everyone (especially Riki) to eat. The aroma of delicious food spread throughout the room, guiding everyone to the dining room table with its invisible leash. There was a plethora of food to feed the empty, grumbling stomachs. Especially ones as vast as Yoshi and Riki's. They waisted no time in filling their vacant real estates with succulent tenants.

Sora and Luigi were stunned by Yoshi and Riki's similar consumption of large dishes. To them, it was a paucity.

Luigi tapped Yoshi on the shoulder. "Hey. Are you sure this guy isn't a distant cousin of yours?"

"Well, he lacks cuteness in a few key areas," Yoshi said, giving Riki a suspicious look. "Namely with having no nose. Me get back to you after me 'fruitnize' him."

"Yes, Riki want more fruit, please," Riki said, chewing on a turkey leg.

"That's scrutinize," Luigi said, nettled. "And that's not what I meant by…never mind."

After pulling the meat clear off the turkey leg, Riki turned to everyone with a guilty expression. "Me sorry for trying to scare everyone. In strange new place. And hungry. Herobon gets cranky on empty belly."

"It's okay," Sora said. "Anyone would go on the defense."

"Besides, you weren't THAT scary," Luigi said, pretending to done a mask of indifference.

Sora narrowed his eyes. "You were about to raid Kraden's house to appease him with food."

"Well, don't make it sound worse!" Luigi said, defensive. He turned to Kraden with a nervous smile. "C'mon. I didn't mean it. You know how irrational I get when I'm afraid."

"No need to threat," Kraden said, after finishing his sip of tea, in good spirits. "I've become accustomed to the absurd aberrations that occur when you stop by. It's quite refreshing, actually. Makes things less mundane."

Riki laughed at Luigi. "Afraid? Bushy face man was more than afraid of heropon. All that shivering you do wasn't because of having ice in pockets."

Luigi crossed his arms, grumbling to himself in embarrassment.

"Excuse me for inquiring, but you mentioned being a heropon," Mia asked. "What is that exactly?"

Riki's eyes shimmered with joy; he hopped off his seat, and stood tall with pride. "Heropon a great honor among my tribe. Riki a warrior chosen by our mighty Chief."

"But you too fluffy to be a warrior," Yoshi said.

"Looks can be deceiving, young dinobeast," Riki said, as prideful air puffed out his fluffy chest. "Chief always makes the right choice." Although the air scurried away upon remembering something. "Although, he let Riki become heropon to pay off debt. He owe lots of 'monies' to village."

Luigi gave Riki a double take, as if his ears had just compiled and slammed pages of misinformation in front of him. "Wait, what?"

"I must admit," Mia said, taken aback by this revelation. Still, she didn't let her polite deportment falter. "That is an unconventional way to earn a venerable title."

But Sora was disappointed. Any help against the growing aggression of the Heartless was better than none at all. He knew it wasn't going to be easy. Especially if he was planning to free Riku from Ansem's control. Right now, he was an obeisance puppet guided by malevolent strings. He hated imagining the suffering Riku was forced to endure. It wasn't fair.

Riku just wanted to see other worlds – to make his dreams seem tangable. But every desire had been retrograded into a distant memory – an image afield from him as a small spec of light, unobtainable. Assistance in Sora's crusade against the Heartless would start to reel that light back towards Riku. But, given what Sora learned, it would remain lassitude for now.

"So that means you can't fight?" Sora asked.

Riki looked at Sora in shock. "No! Don't be silly! Riki went on a journey with sidekicks to battle all powerful god. Me very strong!"

Sora's face brightened in elation. Their chances of defeating Ansem had widened like an elastic band.

"Perhaps a demonstration is in order?" Kraden asked.

With everyone in agreement (hesitation was alight on the back of Luigi's neck), Sora and his friends stood up from their seats. As Kraden used psynergy to move the table away, an eager Riki went to grab his staff; it was made from the finest wood, and wrapped in vines. What caught Sora's eyes was the tip of the staff: it was a monster's mouth of some kind, with the jaw hanging loose.

Riki had created this creature by sewing together various materials. Perhaps it was a representation of the 'dinobeats' that roamed throughout his world – vicious predators that opposed the lackadaisical lifestyle Riki and his people lived.

"Alright!" Riki said, in alacrity, as he grasped the staff with his stubby little hands. "Watch heropon work his magic!" He waved his staff back and forth. "Roly-poly keep on roliiiiing!"

The mouth of Riki's staff was covered in a mauve mist. Feeling as if a rug was pulled out from under him, Sora fell right onto his backside. Yoshi and Luigi joined him on the floor at the same time. Although Luigi had the misfortunate of landing face first into the wooden ground, drizzling it with pieces of his moustache hair.

"W-What just happened?" Sora asked, sitting up with a grunt, rubbing his lower back. "Did he cast a banana peel spell on us or something?"

"Now me know what it feels like to be Luigi'd," Yoshi said.

Luigi, who's face was doing an up close, empirical study of the floor's patterns, said, with a muffled voice, "You're lucky I'm preoccupied with worry over potential splinters right now."

"Riki do good!" Riki said, hopping up and down, pleased with his handy work.

The trio managed to stand up, haunted by specters of aches and pains from the spell.

"That was….different," Sora said, searching a cupboard in his mind for the right words. "Could've given us a little more warning, though."

"Sorry. Riki couldn't contain excitement." He started waving his staff again. "Me fix you right up."

Before they had time to process everything, the group was enveloped in sparkling green energy. Every sore spot had been lulled into a sense of quietude from the soothing spell.

"Thanks!" Sora said, as relief silenced the painful cries of his receptors. "That feels better. We could always use another healer on our team."

Riki grinned. "Oh, but that just the beginning. Observe. F-F-F-Freezinate!

Riki launched aa giant ball of light blue energy, which ended up hitting Sora's arms. It was immured within a cast of pure ice. Any sort of feeling in his arm had been arrogated from numbness.

"Ahhh, help!" Sora said, aggrieved, waving his arm in a frantic motion. "This is my good Heartless bashing hand!"

"Quick, does anyone have chisel?" Yoshi said, jerking his head around in a panic.

Sora appeared mortified by Yoshi's less than stellar suggestion. He'd rather receive a hundred shots in his arm. At the same time.

Luigi placed a rational hand on Yoshi's shoulder. "Y'know, I could just use my fire magic on him."

"Oh." Yoshi blushed in embarrassment. "That might be less painful."

Upon pressing his hand on Sora's arm, Luigi unleashed the fire spell; the ice melted in an instant. Sora sighed in relief as more blood regained its wanderlust to traverse through his veins, providing feeling again.

But Riki was far from dropping the anchor on his showboating. "Riki on a roll! Time to keep the spells coming! Next we'll—" But everyone interrupted with desperate pleas for him bring an abrupt end to his showcase of unorthodox magic. He appeared disappointed. Although it wasn't for the reasons everyone thought. "Aw, that's okay. Riki understand if his magic too ahead of its time. It take some getting used to."

"That's one way of putting it," Luigi said, with an uncomfortable expression.

Regardless, Sora appeared satisfied with the demonstration (despite some numbness refusing to vacate his fingers). "But you seem to have a few handy tricks. You'd be a great help to us?"

"Help?" Riki asked, as his little brown eyes flickered in curiosity. Sora explained the whole situation. Every word squeezed around his stomach, causing an intense pang of sadness. "Oh. Is that what happened when creatures with blank yellow eyes attacked Riki's world?"

Sora always hated delivering the bad news, like he was inadvertently culpable for causing the destruction of that person's world. Everything they cherished was gone. It made them feel hollow on the inside. Sora could commiserate with them, given the loss of his own world. The horrific notion still crashed against his chest like rough waves. It was such a depressing feeling.

Irrespective, telling the truth was better than delaying one's suffering through a lie.

"Afraid so," Sora said. "That's why we're fighting them." He tried to decorate the despairing situation with ornate streamers of encouragement. "We can save every world the Heartless took, including your own. But the fight won't be easy. Would you be able to—"

But Riki's eyes funneled out the dejected waste, leaving behind a shimmering lake of confidence. "Say no more! Riki will not stand by and mourn. He will fight to bring everyone back!"

"Alright!" Sora said, amazed by Riki's sudden determination. "Thanks!"

Riki raised his staff in resolve. "A new adventure for Riki begins! Along with sidekicks, heropon will defeat Heartless, restore world, and reunite with his beautiful wifepon and littlepon."

There was a pause as everyone had to process the end of that sentence. It was like homogeneous rocks of absolute surprise struck the back of their heads.

"Hold on!" Luigi said, with an intonation of various emotions. "You're married!? And you're implying to have kids!?"

"Was it not obvious?" Riki asked.

Sora slid in front of Luigi, sensing that his friend might say something regrettable. "Of course. It just took us a second. We just assumed a good-looking guy like you has encountered plenty of…lady…pon?"

"You flatter Riki," Riki said, chortling. "But he only needs one wifepon. And eleven littlepon."

Sora and Yoshi's jaws dropped at the same time. "Eleven!?"

"And still going strong," Riki said, wearing a layer of pride over his vest.

Luigi let out a sly grin. "Wow. You have quite the stamina."

"I'll say," Sora said, as shock continued orbiting his head like the moon. "Eleven kids must be draining to raise."

Luigi looked at Sora with a raised eyebrow. "That's not what I was referring to, but, sure – we'll go with that."

Everyone soon noticed Riki becoming transparent. Time was anathema towards this extended visit, and decided bring it to an unceremonious end. But Riki didn't mind. He would wait until Sora called on him for his assistance. This was his fight now. He wanted to see his family and friends again. Contributing to Sora's cause would make a difference in ending the Heartless conflict; he believed that sentiment with every fiber of his being.

"Looks like Riki could use a nap," Riki said. "Call on heropon when sidekicks need him."

And so, he vanished from the group, returning to his temporary lair of suspended animation, awaiting the call to action. He left behind a trail of bewildered silence in his wake. Everyone took a moment process their encounter with Riki. To say he didn't leave an impression meant that someone was in an insensible state.

"Goodness," Mia said, being the first to interrupt silence's litany. "He seemed a bit…eccentric."

"You're too kind," Luigi said, in a flat tone.

"Either way, he seems capable," Sora said, trying to keep his optimism on display like an elegant vase. But, given their current situation, it would sometimes sway, threatening to fall and shatter. "We need all the help at this point."

Kraden noticed the boy's tired expression. "Sounds like things haven't gotten any easier." Sora explained their current situation. "Truly fascinating. Everything that transpired only seems to make the Heartless grow stronger."

"Leon wasn't sure what would happen if we seal the keyhole," Sora said. "Do you think it'll stop the Heartless?"

Kraden reflected on every fact Sora presented. Unfortunately, much to his displeasure, the answer was anything but incontrovertible. "It may temporarily slow them down. As long as darkness lingers within every heart, they'll continue their onslaught."

"What about Ansem?" Luigi asked. "Looks like he was behind everything."

"It saddens me to hear how a once peaceful monarch could devolve into such a pitiful individual," Kraden said, expressing contempt. "Only fueled by his lust for power. I wish I had a definitive answer for you. Perhaps the princesses of heart – in all their eternal wisdom – know of a solution."

Sora responded with a nod. Moving forward was their inexorable goal. "We should head back to Cid and get moving. The princesses might be in trouble!"

"I have no doubt your assistance will be beneficiary," Kraden said. His eyes beamed with pride "You have grown strong – all three of you."

Sora rubbed his head. "Thanks, Kraden. We couldn't have done it without your guidance."

"No thanks needed," Kraden said, with a modest smile. "Your commitment to improving your skills shows incredible growth all in its own. Use what you've learned and continue fighting for the worlds in peril. We will be here if you require our assistance."

"Best of luck," Mia said.

Sora was grateful for all the support he had received through this journey. They were the blood vessel that kept him beating. Sora wouldn't have made it this far without them. His mental fortitude would've flatlined as he meandered throughout Traverse Town's enigmatic alleyways, bereft of purpose. They were the reason he was able to see Kairi again.

His friends truly were his power.

Cid was waiting for the group as they returned to the Third District. Although he appeared somewhat dour. "Perfect timing, fellas. Ship's all ready to go."

"You don't seem too happy about it," Sora said.

"Well, it's not the work I did on your ship." Cid smirked. "I'll gloat about my craftsmanship all day." His expression faltered. "Nah. Just worried about you going through all this danger. But I know I can't stop you. Heck, you put me to shame in terms of stubbornness."

Sora grinned, placing both hands behind his head. "I feel flattered."

"Just try not to get cocky out there," Cid said, sincere. "I might've given you a back entrance, but that ain't gonna stop those braindead abominations. Probably more of 'em swarming the castle by now."

Luigi felt his shoulders tense from an upheaval of stress. It was his job to plow through the storm of Heartless ships. The tasked seemed more daunting than ever.

Sora noticed the branches of worry scratching across Luigi's face. "What's wrong?"

"Nervous," Luigi said, finding the strength to speak between the worry strumming his throat. "We barely survived our last trip there."

"And?" Cid said. "All your limbs are still attached, aren't they? I think that's reason enough for praise."

"He's right," Sora said, placing a reassuring hand on Luigi's shoulder. "We wouldn't be here without your piloting skills. And, if we hope to rescue our friends, we need them more than ever. I have all the faith in you!"

Yoshi gave Luigi an encouraging lick on the cheek. "Luigi best pilot! He can do it!"

Luigi blushed. Just like Sora, he was fortunate enough to have friends that trusted him. It was a validation for all his effort and hard work. There was a reason his brother chose him to search for Sora in the first. Keeping their supportive voices pressed against his ears like mufflers, he would guide them towards success.

"Thanks," Luigi said, smiling. His concerns turned timorous before the overwhelming noise of positivity. "You can count on me!"

After good-byes were exchanged, Sora and his friends headed towards the ship. They stopped in front of the door, taking a moment to compose themselves. There was no turning back now. Everyone was counting on them to set things right. The future was always unpredictable. Sometimes frightening. But at least they had each other to trudge through the bog of the unknown.

"Ready?" Sora asked.

"Never will be," Luigi said. "Gotta do it anyway."

"Princess Peach, here we come!" Yoshi said.

Sora started opening the door, holding onto the belief that he would return to Traverse Town.

He had a promise to keep.

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