A/N: I'm back. Sorry for the wait on this one. Last few months were hectic. For a multitude of reasons. But I'm trying to pull myself together and have a set schedule to write each day. Thanks for sticking with me during these difficult times. You're all the best. I would love to have one more chapter out by the end of the year, but circumstances might get in the way. If I don't have it out, then I wish everyone a Happy Holidays. Thanks again!

Chapter 73: An Unfortunate Revelation

Everything was quiescent. Sora stared at the variegated ceiling, watching the slow, methodical movements of reds, blues, and greens flow like a stream. They were on a journey that would never surcease. Sora, much to his disinclination, was forced down a homogeneous river. It wouldn't desiccate until cut off at the source: Ansem.

The group continued staring at the ceiling, catching their breath; they watched the colors continue their perpetual movement, as if engendered by the sonorous call of wanderlust.

But their moment of quietude received a surprising, laconic interjection. From a familiar voice:

"Sora," Leon said. "You did it."

Sora sat up, startled, believing exhaustion had arrogated his rational mind. Was he hearing things in his head? He spun around, hoping to debunk his posit.

"Oh boy," Yoshi said, sitting up, rubbing his head in a daze. "Yoshi must be really tired. Me hearing voices now. And they sound a lot like Leon." He heard someone clear their throat, and the dinosaur looked over his shoulder to see Leon standing in front of the exit. A conflation of surprise and concern orbited around Yoshi's blue eyes. "Me knew it. Yoshi had rammed his head into things one too many times." He glared at Luigi. "Why you tell Yoshi to use head when you knew it have 'percussions?'"

Luigi rubbed his forehead in exasperation. "That's repercussions. And is it going to take the largest Venn diagram to help you differentiate between literal and figurative!?"

"Well, glad I wasn't the only one who thought he was crazy," Sora said, approaching Leon, ignoring the usual antics of his friends. "This is quite a surprise."

Leon smirked. "Maybe I should've called ahead. Seems like I missed the festivities. Shame, really. Brought a few friends along."

"Huh?" Sora asked, confused.

After Fox introduced himself to Leon, the group exited through the heart-shaped door, arriving back at the octangular platform. They were greeted by two familiar, friendly faces: Yuffie and Aerith. For a moment, it was like they were back in Traverse Town, regaled by the cordial presence of their friends.

Although Yuffie enjoyed being an inconstant within the warm atmosphere with her sarcasm. "Took ya long enough. I think someone's been slacking off."

"Well, then," Sora said, smirking, "maybe the Great Ninja Yuffie should've stepped into expedite things."

"Nah," Yuffie said, belying nervousness through a wide grin. "How are you supposed to become a true Keyblade Master without fighting your own battles?"

"Right," Leon said, giving Yuffie an incredulous, albeit playful, look.

Yuffie shot a nettled glance back at her friend.

"What are you guys doing here, anyway?" Luigi asked.

"We came in Cid's ship," Yuffie said.

Aerith felt a lump trussed within her throat. Saying the sentence was difficult. At times, she couldn't fain the truth. But cozening herself would not make things better. The shadows of the past were indelible; it was an elongated tail that each and every person had to drag along with them forever. But through healthy communication, the length could taper somewhat.

With a soft exhale, Aerith said, "This is our childhood home. We wanted to see it again."

Sora and his friends were taken aback by this revelation. By happenstance, this derelict castle, which had caused multiple grievances for the trio, held sentimental value to Leon and the others. To Sora, this castle was immemorial – a dark, dour structure forced to languor for all eternity. Its stone skin continued eroding from each beat of time's implacable, immutable heartbeat.

But to Leon, he saw a halcyon past behind those thick, plaintive layers. Long ago, the sunlight exhaled into the glass windows, providing a warm glow throughout the hallways, replete with gaiety. Pleasant voices echoed throughout the corridors, obviating the sense of loneliness. Every room was adorned with rich textures and furniture. The deluge of staff members worked tired, yet indefatigable effort to keep every corner pristine.

Leon tried to hold onto the visuals of yesteryear. To ameliorate the grim undercurrent flowing through his stomach. But the present circumvented him into facing reality.

"It's in worse shape than I feared," Leon said. Sadness was sketched across his lineament.

Yuffie placed both hands in her pockets, letting out a heavy sigh to waltz with the brooding atmosphere. "I'll say. Should be happy to be home. Now I'd rather be back in Traverse Town listening to one of Cid's crazy ramblings."

"I'm sorry this happened," Luigi said, as a pang of guilt thrust itself into his hip. A denizen of his own world lead to the castle's retrograde into nothingness. He couldn't help but feel somewhat culpable. "Bowser took things way too far this time."

"Never blame yourself for what transpired," Aerith said, with her usual, kind deportment. "You both inhabit the same world, sure. But you can't control someone's intentions."

"Besides, you put an end to his reign here," Leon said. "Allowing us to visit this place after all this time. I can't express how grateful we are for all your efforts."

Sora rubbed his head, feeling appreciated. Although a small drop of sadness left a sour taste on his tongue. He coveted for what Leon and his friends have acquired: the ability to see their home again. He didn't care if its appearance was incipient – a ruined island with pieces of lumber and foliage strewn throughout the once smooth sand. His island would be tangible; he could reach out and touch it. The crisp air would flit across his face like a warm washcloth, curing the ailment of being homesick.

Right now, he had nothing. Only memories kept his island afloat in a sea of oblivion.

"Glad we could help," Sora said, trying to convalesce the negative thoughts. "Say, I've been meaning to ask: what is the name of this place, anyway?"

Leon, Aerith, and Yuffie shot each other quizzical glances, as if expecting the other to be endued with the answer.

"Strangest thing," Yuffie said, turning back to Sora with a confused expression. "We don't remember. Like it's been wiped clean from our minds or something."

"Very peculiar," Aerith said, pressing a finger against her lower lip, in thought.

"The princesses did overhead Bowser and his troops call this place something else, though," Leon said. Just trying to say the name made his throat feel heavy, as if he struggled in bringing it to the surface. A name that his former home didn't deserve. "Hollow Bastion."

"A bit on the nose," Yuffie said, "but I heck if I could think of anything better."

"Speaking of the princesses," Fox said. "While I commiserate over what happened to your home, I need to get back to Krystal."

"Absolutely," Sora said, with an acceding nod. "Go on. You two have a lot to catching up to do."

But Fox wasn't the only one impelled to visit with their loved ones. Luigi had a similar desire that surmounted all over thought. Although feeling a bit awkward, he asked, "Do you guys mind if we go see the princess?"

"Not at all," Leon said. "I'm sure you miss her a lot."

"Of course," Yoshi said. He smirked. "She been deprived of Yoshi kisses for far too long."

Sora decided to stay behind with Leon and the others. He felt his presence would be intrusive. Fox, Luigi and Yoshi needed that allotted time with their loved ones. Because once talk was over, they would espouse to the idea of urgency. Ansem was still out there in the vastness of space, planting the unconscionable, ineffable seeds of his next action. They had to debar it from accruing into something horrible.

After Fox, Luigi and Yoshi left, Sora turned back to his friends from Traverse Town, still donning a lapel of sympathy. "Are you guys gonna be alright?"

"It's disheartening to see this place in such a state," Leon said. But a small smile offered its succor, inuring the bleak mood. "But it's still home. Glad I got a chance to see it again."

Yuffie patted her friend on the shoulder, trying to engender him with hope. "Eh, don't be so melancholy, Leon. Some tile work, some glue, new wallpaper, and endless hours of torturous labor will make this place spick and span."

"It shouldn't be an issue," Aerith said, acquiescing with Yuffie. "Ansem's defeat should change all that."

Sora's train of thought wended towards a trail of curiosity. "What do you mean?"

"We consulted with the princesses," Leon said. "At this moment, they are searching for Ansem. It isn't going to be an easy one, though."

"But once they do," Sora said, with confidence in his eyes, "we're going to take the fight to him!"

"Yes," Aerith said. "And, the princesses believe that, once he is defeated, every world should be restored. Including your island."

Sora's eyes widened from a deluge of intense emotions. A cacophony of elation screamed in his ears. That was a statement he never thought would be uttered. For a moment, disinclination was eminent, unable to believe the notion was real. He had been on this journey for what felt like forever. And each day, the chances of seeing his home again seemed to grow faint, like a dying star.

But upon receiving a reassuring aver from Aerith, the star had been resuscitated; it was beaming in the darkness of space, as if smiling, overjoyed to have been bestowed with a second chance at life. Sora felt light with happiness; sorrowful dross had been cleansed from his being.

"Oh, my gosh!" Sora said, on the verge of shouting from jubilation. "I can't believe it! We can finally go home! Man. I never would've thought…I gotta tell Kairi! She'll want to take her sandals off for the beach right away!"

But Sora's ecstatic ramblings did not penetrate the sudden dispirited mood of the others. They were within an esoteric dome; it was bedimmed by an unfortunate, heartbreaking realization. The three looked at each other, knowing that they couldn't keep manacles around the inexorable truth.

"But," Yuffie said, finding courage to speak of this disheartening revelation, "this also means good-bye."

Sora stopped his celebration. The room went silent, as if to mourn the loss of this joyous occasion. He felt the mood dilapidated right before his eyes, like a vibrant tree that lost its color from the depressing, cold, seasonal change.

"Good-bye?" Sora asked, blinking in confusion.

Aerith sighed; a small intonation quivered within her throat. "Once the worlds are restored, they'll all be separate again."

"Everyone will go back to where they came from," Yuffie said, glancing over the rail, unable to face Sora's reaction.

But Sora stared with a neutral expression, ruminating over their words. His mind started to race: there had to be a simple solution, he thought. And that mantra continued playing on repeat.

"Then I'll visit you guys with the Labo ship," Sora said, trying to keep discouragement from becoming imperious by delivering the painful truth. "I'm sure Luigi won't mind."

Leon crossed his arms, remaining stolid; he was trying to be strong in this situation. "It's not that simple."

"Before all this, you didn't know about other worlds, right?" Yuffie asked.

"Because every world was isolated," Aerith said. "Impassable walls divided them."

Sora could feel his confidence start to wane. It clawed at a slippery slope of hopeless, in a vain attempt to latch onto anything. But fatigue startled to stifle its movement. Yet it continued scratching for even an infinitesimal indent.

"The Heartless destroyed the walls when this whole ordeal started," Yuffie said; her chest grew heavy from sadness. "But if the worlds return, so will the walls."

Leon closed eyes. "Which means Labo ships will be worthless."

But Sora didn't want to say good-bye. He despised the word. It was a promise forced onto you. His shoulders trembled as emotions were at war with the dominating feeling of acceptance.

It was a battle he couldn't win.

He met so many new friends. They had become a part of his life, even if their time together was ephemeral. His heart was a confluence for their influence. It made him a stronger person. Being in their company filled him indescribable happiness that was insuperable. But now, he was being forced to surrender that blissful sensation; to never share the space with his friends again.

But, worst of all, he would have to say good-bye to Luigi and Yoshi – the two individuals that meant the most to him. He would've never made this far without their strength and encouragement.

Anytime things were looking grim, they were his recourse. Not anymore. Looking over his shoulder, he wouldn't see them. Only an empty spot would answer his call with taciturn.

Denial was gainsaid towards this reality.

"Well, the lasers on the ship are strong," Sora said; his tone was that of anger, but despondence started to infiltrate his throat. "We could blast them down."

"Sora," Leon said in a firm, yet gentle tone.

Sora's voice started to ague like the prologue of an earthquake; his emotions were on the verge of tottering over into an inconsolable mess. "Or maybe they're wrong! Just because all the worlds are restored, poof, so are the walls!?"

Yuffie had to turn away from Sora. She could no longer watch his vain attempts to fight against the truth. It just made her dejected to see someone holding onto faith with all their might. But a breeze of inevitability would soon carry it afield, moving in one perpetual direction, unable to be reobtained. Aerith covered her mouth, trying to fight back the tears. Her heart had been daubed in a thick paste of guilt.

Leon's gaze remained unchanged – sincerity was immobile as a statue.

"What about the Keyblade?!" Sora asked, his voice booming throughout the vicinity. Frustration reverberated off the dim, inexpressive walls. "It can take down the biggest and toughest Heartless, but it can't break through a stupid barrier!? There has to be way!"

His friends remained silence, knowing there was no answer for the impossible. Not even a monosyllable of assurance was provided. Sora's confidence faltered: acceptance started to delineate its harsh injunction. And he was obeisant to each, agonizing harangue.

Tears started to form in his eyes. The wonderous world around him turned into incomprehensible, washed out colors – a visual representation of his mind at the moment.

"There….has…to…be..a…way…." He broke down into a loud sob. A waterfall of sorrow left his eye ducts. He couldn't believe this was happening. Never seeing his friends felt like the ultimate punishment. For a moment, he was reminded of being in Traverse Town – all alone, with no one there to offer succor.

He was empty.

Until Aerith, obviating dejection from making her eyes rheumy, planted the seed of compassion. She pulled the boy into her arms for a warm embrace, muffling his incongruous, solo performance of distress. He heard Aerith's calm, uplifting voice breakthrough the cacophony of sobs.

"Just let it out," Aerith said. "We're all here for you."

He continued crying for a little while. Aerith's comforting hug squeezed out some of the excesses anguish like a cloth. But many inconsolable blotches would remain intertwined within the fabric – impossible to remove. He would have to live with that despondent feeling. And there was nothing he could do to quell it.

At least the embrace helped alleviate some of the strong emotions that rumbled through his chest. Being comforted reminded him that he wasn't the only one affected by the news. Everyone else resonated with his emotional aberration. His axiom was incorrect: the long, convoluted equation of his life showed that he wasn't alone. Everyone he cherished would support him through his sufferance.

He cried a little more, expelling the last few drops of tears. Being in Aerith's arms strapped him into a sense of security. He was shielded from the world around him. It reminded of being home, safe in his mother's arm, unloading an overstuffed bag of problems for her to sort through. Soon, Sora's ducts ceased production (although some tears still managed to escape), and his breathing was tantamount to slow, rhythmic movements of waves from shallow water.

As the two released their embrace, Sora wiped the tears away with his gloved hand. He was still crestfallen – a sensation that would remain intrusive, no matter how hindmost it was in his mind. "It's…not fair. You guys mean so much to me."

"I know," Aerith said, remaining strong for him, keeping her kind and compassionate demeanor on display. She would not let the paint peel off her countenance. "So do you. Saying good-bye is never easy."

"But I don't want to," Sora said, as protest protruded from his pupils.

"Then don't think of it that way," Aerith said.

"What do you mean?" Sora asked.

Aerith placed a hand on his shoulder. "Good-byes should never feel permanent. All those memories of our time together – they're locked away within our hearts. When we think of each other, even for just a second, it feels like we're there. We're never truly gone. Just look inside yourself, and you'll find us. If you need guidance, use one of us as an image. If you want to daydream about an adventure, imagine us all there with you. Sometimes stopping to think about someone is enough to fill you with joy."

Sora ruminated on each sentence. It was strung together with care, delineating a clear purpose to him. Seeing their visages in his mind made him smile. They were a representation of kindness and helpfulness – in a dark time when the shimmering light of hope seemed imperceptible.

And, perhaps, just retaining those pleasant memories was the best he could afford.

"Yeah," Sora said, sighing in defeat. "I guess that's true.

"We may never meet again," Leon said, "but we'll never forget each other."

"No matter where we are, our hearts will bring us together again," Aerith said.

In her usual teasing manner, Yuffie added, "Besides, I couldn't forget about you even if I wanted to."

"What's supposed to mean?" Sora asked, chuckling for the first in what felt like forever. But he needed to pause within a threshold of levity. It brightened his mood somewhat, clearing the negative thoughts, and imbibing him with their point of view. "You're right. I know you'll always be a part of my memories. It'll never replace the real deals. But seeing you in my thoughts will make me happy."

But another devastating thought incommoded his moment of contentment. It weighted down on his heart, retreating into the dark, brooding pit of his stomach. While Sora cared for Leon and the others, there were two individuals that had become a massive part of his life. Together, they were a gestalt that made their way through a thick morass. And yet, they still reached the end, becoming stronger, and growing closer through each new experience.

He thought they were inseparable. But fate planned to disassemble their bond, one painful piece at a time.

"What do I tell Luigi and Yoshi?" Sora said, as sadness creaked into his throat like a worn floorboard losing its strength. "I almost don't want to tell them. Luigi will be devastated." Tears started forming in his eyes again. "Yoshi…I…I…don't even…."

Leon's response to this question was firm and laconic: "You have to tell them. Waiting till the last minute isn't going to do them any favors."

Sora placed both hands in his pockets, taking a deep breath, trying to keep those intense emotions from toppling over again.

"Well, he should give it a little time," Aerith said. "Probably needs to think things through." She turned back to Sora with an encouraging expression. "Trust what your instincts say."

Leon was amenable with the idea, and nodded in response. Sora exhaled in relief, having been granted a short reprieve. He needed time to process everything. To recapitulate what he heard to Luigi and Yoshi. Regardless of how he phrased his words, there reactions would be the same: devastated. Especially Yoshi. Akin to Sora, he would balk over accepting the news.

Sora had to stop peering through a lens of the inevitable. It would just upset him further. For now, he had to take a step back and keep both feet planted in the present. His journey wasn't over yet. He needed to remain focused if they had any chance of stopping Ansem.

None of this would matter if they were condemned to a life perambulating through eternal darkness.

"Okay," Sora said, as a scion of his confidence took form. "I will."

"It's been a long day," Leon said. "Everyone's probably exhausted. There are some beds in the castle you can sleep in tonight."

Sora stretched out his arms. "Good idea. Will help clear my head."

"Oh, and Sora," Aerith said, rummaging through her pocket. She pulled out some pieces of paper. "Take these with you. I found the last few pages of Ansem's report." Disappointment bedimmed her bright green eyes. "Not sure how they'll help, but it's worth a read."

Sora concurred. Perhaps partaking in an easygoing activity would take his mind off everything for a little while. Sora took the pages from Aerith, pocked them, and smacked his cheeks.

"Alright," Sora said. "Gotta pull myself together."

He put on a faux smile – to mask the inner turmoil that fluttered throughout his body like distressed butterflies.

The walk back to the chapel was quiet. Only the echoes of Sora and his friends' footsteps were engaged in conversation. The four were kneed deep in their own thoughts. With each passing second, the sand started tugging them in further. But, soon, as they entered the chapel, Yoshi's cheerful voice had conciliated them to pull themselves out of their rut.

The dinosaur was in a state of excitement, recounting his adventures to Princess Peach. She listened with eyes of fascination and intrigue. For a moment, she wasn't the monarch of an entire kingdom: she was a zealous child enraptured by the fantastical locales Luigi and Yoshi visited.

Yoshi pretended to hold a sword with both hands. "And then he swing Keyblade hard at Charizard! The crowd went wild! Sora turned that scary Pokémon into a little, wimpy salamander!"

Sora couldn't help but smile. Yoshi presence was the proper antidote for gloom. The fog eroded from the light of his energetic presence. Even Leon and his friends' mood were illuminated from the dinosaur's radiant, positive aura.

Sora was going to miss the jovial presences of his little brother.

"Talking about me behind my back again, are we?" Sora asked, placing both hands on his hips in a playful manner.

Yoshi turned to Sora with a guilty expression, blushing. "N-No." Sora gave him an incredulous look. "Well, maybe. But it was about how awesome you are!"

"Oh, well then," Sora said, looking smug. "By all means, keep going. I'll wait in the next room if you want."

"How about trying the outskirts of the castle?" Luigi said, with a teasing grin. "Don't think the halls can contain that ego you're flailing around."

Sora walked over to Luigi and gave him a playful punch in the shoulder. He was also going to miss their frequent verbal sparring matches. It kept his mind sharp like a musical note. But it wasn't the only trait Sora admired about Luigi: despite being surrounded within restive, insecure smog, pearls of wisdom would peer out from its thick form. They offered cogent advice that would make Sora see the world in a different light.

And Yoshi – he had been there for Sora when hopelessness teemed within his soul, making him servile towards their invectives to quit. Every moment they shared together was pure joy. But now life's unwavering jurisdiction had to impart heartbreak. How was he going to break the news to the dinosaur? No. He didn't event want conjure an answer yet; it would be a presage towards further dejection.

For now, he had to remain his usual confident, cheerful self – to be strong as he and his friends took their first, perilous step towards stopping Ansem. Sora would do his best to keep that bright skin from tearing off like a lizard, revealing a pale, dejected layer.

"Excellent work, Sora," Peach said, approaching the group, pleased. "The darkness has begun to weaken."

Although she tried to not be errant in this concourse of optimism, Zelda exhibited concern. "But I can still sense Ansem. His signal is weak, but we can only assume it'll grow stronger."

"Afraid we can't pinpoint its location at the moment," Samus said, crossing her arms, vexed.

"We're sorry," Dixie said, as her eyes descended towards the ground in guilt.

But Sora's smile didn't falter from the weight of this minor setback. If anything, this was an opportunity to collect on time's generous loan. To enjoy being with his friends for just a little longer. Was this train of thought a bit selfish? Sure. But he wanted to cherish every last moment with them – before the ticking ceased. It was okay to partake in self-indulgence now and then – an imperfection that needed to be satiated.

Besides, after everything the group had been through today, they pined for sleep. Tomorrow was prepared to unload an even heavier burden.

"Don't be," Sora said. "You've already been a major help to us."

"Your words are respectful, Keyblade Master," Mia said. "We will continue to search for him."

Sora cracked his knuckles. "Good. Let us know right away when you find him. We'll take the ship and deal with both Ansem and the Heartless!"

"A worthy answer, Sora," Peach said. "You are one of the most courageous people I've ever met. I can't thank you enough for all you've done."

Sora rubbed his head, blushing. He couldn't help but feel a sense of self-importance. From receiving praise and recognition from royalty. Too bad no one back home will believe him. Knowing Tidus and Wakka, they'd hover around like a scaffold, depositing a slew of corny jokes into his ear like salt.

"She's right," Zelda said. "Because of your efforts, Link was able to imprison the evil king in a realm of oblivion. Oh, and please don't tell him about all this. He'll worry to death if you do! I'll recount everything to him once I'm back in Hyrule."

After a few minutes of casual conversation, exhaustion hit Sora hard like lightning. Luigi and Yoshi would be struck by that contagious bolt, too. Today had been filled with so much drama; an entire manuscript could be written about it. But they wanted to tear off each page, effacing every stressful moment.

Taking Leon's advice, the group decided to spend the night in the castle, and reconcile with the princesses in the morning. Aerith lead the trio to a hallway containing bedrooms. Each one was ornate in design. Despite being abandoned, the rooms were immaculate: the beds were covered in scarlet blankets; the blue carpets underneath were stitched together with an elaborate design; and a fireplace stood nearby the bed, waiting to open its orange eye from an igniting flame.

And Sora granted its request, lighting up the fireplace with his magic. An alluring orange glow made the shadows retreat into the corner from overawe. The fire crackled in contentment for being birthed into existence. Once Aerith wished everyone good-night, the three prepared to take the gentle, slow plummet into slumber.

Yoshi wanted to stay with Sora. And not just because he missed him. An irrational sensation of concern for his wellbeing slid across every scale. He didn't want to lose his best buddy again. But Sora pat him on the head, reassuring the dinosaur that everything would be fine. Besides, Sora needed time to himself. He was too exhausted for company. And it was tacit through his expression, which Luigi noticed.

With some reassuring words, Luigi managed to coax Yoshi into sleeping in his room (although not before giving Sora the biggest lick his tongue could muster). To let Sora be in the quiet, diffident company of no one. Although, as Luigi looked into the boy's blue eyes, he started to understand why Yoshi was concerned. A timorous sadness peeked out from behind fatigued foliage.

Something else was ascribing to Sora's mood. "Hey, you sure you're alright?"

"Why do you ask?"

"I don't know," Luigi said. "You don't feel like…yourself. I know we're all tired, but you usually carry an upbeat spark with you. Doesn't seem like it's on right now."

Sora felt a nervous pinch in his neck. Was he that easy to read? The layers of faux emotion were translucent. But he wasn't ready to reveal his secret yet. The right sentences haven't auditioned yet.

"I get what you mean," Sora said, as his mind flipped through pages for an excuse. "But I was a Heartless not too long ago. Guess you can say I'm not really all here right now."

"That makes sense," Luigi said. He patted his friend on the shoulder. "Then rest up. I have a feeling tomorrow's not going to be any easier."

Sora chuckled. "Positive as always."

"Realistic as always."

"Fair enough."

After the two said good-night to each other, Sora walked into his room, closing the door behind him. Luigi stared at the inexpressive door, replaying the conversation again. He wanted to take Sora's word that he was find. But caution was a sedulous neighbor that always barged into Luigi's head. All he could do was hope that tomorrow would be a better day.

And that yesterday was just a nightmare that would slither back into the unconscious.

Sora lit a candle on the nightstand next to his bed. He sunk into the mattress, surrendering to the exhaustion. Yet, sleep kept its shimmering gates close. Not even the soothing crackles of the fire could cajole him into that realm of quietude. His mind was still rolling on an endless convey belt, unable to proceed forwards or backwards. So many things to process. It was a struggle between mind and body.

He had to silence the noise. Or else he'd be at its mercy all night. An idea soon shouted out from the inharmonious instruments of thoughts. Sora grabbed the remaining Ansem reports and stacked them on his stomach. Reading would create a protective barrier around him, keeping the incoherent noise from interjecting with nonsense.

He began his pilgrimage through lines of text, hoping it would lead him to slumber.

Ansem Report 2:

It is my duty to expose what this darkness really is. I shall conduct the following experiments:

Extract the darkness from a person's heart.

Cultivate darkness in a pure heart.

Both suppress and amplify the darkness within.

The experiments caused the test subject's heart to collapse, including those of the most stalwart. How fragile our hearts are! My treatment produced no signs of recovery. I confined those who had completely lost their hearts beneath the castle.

Sometime later, I went below and was greeted by the strangest sight. Creatures that seemed born of darkness...What are they? Are they truly sentient beings? Could they be the shadows of those who lost their hearts in my experiments?

Ansem Report 4:

The Heartless appear in groups, and are multiplying rapidly. I've provided them both living and nonliving samples. They've responded only to the living. They seem to multiply after absorbing something from the living creatures. Their prey vanishes without a trace.

I believe the Heartless are taking hearts. They are born from those who've lost their hearts, and thrive on hearts seized from others. The hearts taken by the Heartless become Heartless themselves.

Though I lack proof, I am confident in this hypothesis. I must also study their behavioral principles. Though they lack emotions, they do seem to have some intelligence. How to communicate with them?

It's just occurred to me: Could they be the darkness in people's hearts?

Ansem Report 5:

To study the Heartless behavior, I picked one out for observation. It wiggled its antennae and, as if sensing a target, headed deep into the castle. In the deepest part of the castle, its antennae began vibrating, as if searching for something. Suddenly, a strange door appeared. I'd never known of its existence.

It had a large keyhole, but didn't seem to be locked. So I opened the door. What I saw on the other side mystified me. What was that powerful mass of energy? That night I observed a great meteor shower in the sky. Could it be related to the door that I have opened?

Ansem Report 6:

A massive core of energy lay beyond the door sought by the Heartless. It may be the ultimate goal of the Heartless. But what is that energy? I have devised a hypothesis, based upon my observations of the Heartless.

The Heartless feed on other's hearts, and they yearn for that energy core. That thing beyond the door must be a heart, too-the heart of this world. There is no proof, but, having felt that immense energy, I am certain. That was the heart of the world.

The Heartless are trying to take hearts not only from all living creatures, but from the planet itself. But what do they mean to do with the heart of the world?

Ansem Report 10:

Just as people have hearts, so do worlds. The same can be said of stars in the night sky. And deep within each world lies a door to its heart. The Heartless desire those hearts. Born out of darkness in people's hearts, they seek to return to a greater heart.

Yes that's it. The Heartless come from people's hearts, as does the darkness. Is the core of the world's heart the world of the Heartless? I will pursue the answer there and become all knowing.

My path is set. I shall seek out the wielder of the Keyblade, and the princesses. My body is too frail for such a journey, but I must do this. I will cast it off and plunge into the depths of darkness.

Sora squeezed the edges of the paper as sudden anger rushed to his chest. The paper let out a crumpling noise of agony. So was taking away my world and hurting my friends worth the pursuit, he thought. Everyone was in danger because of such a selfish crusade. But, then, again: wasn't that the dream he had with Riku and Kairi? To see new worlds and enlighten themselves with new knowledge?

But it was never to step over the boundaries and hurt anyone in the process. Ansem seemed indifferent to a rather important notion. Nothing else mattered right now. Whether Sora was right or wrong in this situation; all he knew that Ansem needed to be stopped. Ever other distracting thought held its breath in aw of Sora's realization. And he'd carry that focus with him as he finally drifted off to sleep.

The story takes a brief detour, finding itself being tugged backwards in time, and witnessing events from a different perspective. It was the aftermath of the keyhole being complete. For the first time in forever, the halls were teeming with guests. Unwanted and unruly, but guests none the same. The Heartless meandered, growing restless, seeking a healthy, beating heart to absorb into their being. One heart in particular showed temerity in traversing the halls, aware of the risks. And it belonged to Kammy Koop. The scion of the Koopa King had vanished not too long after Sora slayed his father. She was searching every corner of the castle for him.

But alas, her search seemed fruitless. His whereabouts weren't salient; not even a clue left its mark. She felt the cold presence of the Heartless violate her wrinkled skin. Continuing the search now would have fatal consequences. She would have to postpone her search – against her better judgement. A laceration of guilt formed in her chest – pus of regret crept out of the cut.

It hurt.

She still couldn't believe Bowser was gone. Despite his grumpy demeanor, he showed signs of caring for Kammy. The feeling was mutual. She watched over him since childhood – a spoiled, stubborn prince. But one that had ambitions of grandeur. To conquer the Mushroom Kingdom and find his soul mate. She admired him for his determination. It was what made her, along with the other troops, follow him into sculpting that dream into existence.

But now, it had crumbled. And the heir to his throne was missing. She could never forgive herself if something had to Jr. For now, though, she was forced to retreat. But she wouldn't be far. Once the crowd started to diminish, she would return. All she could do at the moment was pray to the Star Spirits he would survive.

Tears ran down his cheeks. His body quivered as intense emotions rallied throughout the body, causing distress. He was inconsolable, staying hidden within his shell. Jr. had become reticent from the entire world, hiding in a dark cave on the outskirts of the castle. Nothing seemed to matter right now. He lost the most important person in his life – the one that guided him and shaped him into a prosperous prince. But now, he'd have to take up his father's mantle.

The prospect frightened him. He was too young, and couldn't bare the thought of being pressured with adult responsibility. The avenues were endless. He couldn't traverse them without the strong guidance of his father. It seemed impossible. He felt alone and scared. And it was all because of the Keyblade – a utensil used to wipe out the darkness like an eraser. But also take the life of the one embedded within in it.

Anger started to squeeze against the prince's chest. It was a painful sensation that would not subside, like a cyst. And it would not drain until the Keyblade's lethal light was eclipsed by the darkness. A sudden presence stroked his fire red hair. He peeked out from his shell, seeing a dark portal glancing back at him. Curiosity nudged him forward. He gazed at its defined oval shape in wonderment.

A thought occurred to him: did he create this portal? Something deep within the layers of his mind seemed to believe the theory. Perhaps he willed it into existence from his desire to escape this dreadful world. There was nothing left for him here. Nor would he find satisfaction in returning to his kingdom. The castle would feel empty without the powerful, encouraging presence of his father. Everything would belong to him. And yet, it would be too much to handle. He was a child. Their responsibility was to grown and learn. He would lose a part of himself forever – the ability to enjoy life.

But the alluring darkness was calling to him. It provided comfort he hadn't felt since being with his father. Perhaps this was the path he needed to follow: to let the darkness impart him with untold wisdom, like a surrogate parent. Through this journey of self-discovery, maybe he'd find the strength to confront Sora himself, and make him feel the retribution of loss.

Vengeance is a danger to seek recourse from, but Jr. ignored the risks. The darkness began whispering malicious desires in his ear. Standing up, and drying his tears, he walked into the portal, prepared to take the next major step in his life.

To make his father proud, and keep the Koopa King's legacy from singing a eulogy.

Morning came quick for Sora; his ears were pummeled by the rough sounds of knocking at the door.

"Wake up, pal," Yoshi said; his voice was replete with boisterous air. "Another morning means another world to save!"

But Sora pulled the covers over him, deflecting the rush of excitement. A part of himself was still carrying the massive weight of yesterday. It prevented him from springing out of bed like a enthusiastic kangaroo, accepting the invitation to today's challenges. But another part just wanted to linger, because they knew the end of this journey was close. Once the back cover closed, it would never reopen. He could never revisit the land of familiarity again; every person and place would be gone forever.

He was trying to prolong that inevitable; to enjoy what time he had left. In a tired tone, he asked, "Can we save the world in a little bit? I'm sure it won't go anywhere in the next hour."

"But you Keyblade Master," Yoshi said, with encouragement. "Luigi and Yoshi no do it without Sora."

Sora let out a soft moan. He couldn't lie to himself; lingering would just make things worse, not better. Everyone was counting on him. Especially Riku and Kairi. It wasn't fair to them. Right now, Riku was suffering. Probably experiencing the same numbing sensation of hopelessness like Sora did as a Heartless. He didn't want anyone else end up in that void. It was time to move forward, and liberate himself from the shackles of selfishness.

But Yoshi wasn't waiting for a response. "Me going to break down this door. With my head!"

"Oh, no!" Sora said, as the threat jolted him to sit up, now fully awake. "Don't do that! It won't survive!"

He hurried out of bed, not wanting Yoshi to do anything rash. Given the unparallel strength of the dinosaur's head, the door would fall over and break with the ease of glass. Sora scrambled to put his jacket on, opened the door, and saw Yoshi already lining up a path to the door. He had one eye closed, arm stretched out in front of him, with a thumb up. But he stopped upon seeing Sora, wagging his tail in joy.

"Morning," Yoshi said. "You sleep longer than usual. Is Sora okay?"

Sora stretched out both arms, and responded with an apologetic rub of his head. "Yeah, fine. Was just really tired. Being a Heartless can do that to ya."

"Well, me wouldn't know," Yoshi said. "That Sora's expertise."

Sora got Yoshi into a playful headlock. "Oh, so being a Heartless makes me an expert, huh? Don't think I want monster with the IQ of DK's banana batch as part of my resume."

"C'mon!" Yoshi said between giggles. "Others waiting for us!"

Sora nodded, released his grip, and left for the Castle Chapel. Yoshi followed close behind his friend, dragging along a long shawl of suspicion. The dinosaur had known Sora for a decent amount of time. He was starting to understand his behavior patterns. Whenever he was cheery, you felt the energy push itself into the soles of your feet. It was like a battery being recharged.

But something wasn't right, as if his usual happy-go-lucky demeanor belied something dismal. It was hard to explain. Especially for someone so young. But this wasn't the same Sora he was used to seeing in the morning. The one ready to face any challenge without hesitation. But Yoshi would give him the benefit of the doubt.

After all, yesterday was a day filled with many challenges. Some of which Yoshi didn't even want to recall. Like Sora being a Heartless. It still saddened him. But for Sora, he must've been exhausted. Recovery never happens overnight. Time was needed to sew the tears back together. That must've been it, Yoshi thought. He needed time, and nothing more.

After reuniting with Luigi, the group made their way into the chapel. Everyone they met yesterday was present (except for Leon and the others; they had taken their leave for Traverse Town). Navi had also appeared, enjoying a pleasant conversation with Princess Zelda, exchanging recapitulations over their adventures. All eyes turned to Sora and his friends as they entered the room.

Krystal's was under the perversion of guilt "Afraid there hasn't been any progress yet."

"But that just means we'll have to work harder!" Dixie said, undeterred. "After all you did for us back in the jungle, there's no way I'm letting you guys down!"

"We appreciate that," Luigi said.

"Then it looks like we have some time to kill," Sora said, placing both hands behind his head. "Any ideas on what to do?"

"Me know!" Yoshi said, with a bright expression. "This castle big! We should hold a hide and seek tournament! It next big thing right after Golfing and Tennis!"

Luigi glanced around the room, nervous. "In this creepy place? No thanks. Wasn't exactly keen on getting to know this castle up, close, and personal. My anxiety's already on alert. Couldn't we do something safe like play solitaire?"

"But aren't you concerned about the possibility of paper cuts?" Sora asked, with a sly grin.

Luigi frowned. "Please stop giving comedy a reason to abandon its career path."

Their moment of badinage was interrupted when they heard Navi exclaim, "Princess!?"

Everyone turned to see Zelda clutching to her chest. Her breathing was rapid, sounding like the excessive steam being expelled from the stack of an old train. Muscles became ague as trepidation began its riot. She found herself starting to hunch over. The world around her seem to be caving in, not providing a spec of comfort. Everyone hurried over to the princess' aid. Navi flew back and forth, finding herself in the same vacuum of distress.

"Zelda?" Peach asked. "What's wrong!?"

"Are you hurt!?" Navi asked.

Zelda's sharp breathing outstretched itself throughout the room, producing a loud echo. But she received a stint of strength to her vocal chords and spoke between breaths: "I sense…an inexplicable, unstable power…its growing stronger…my people are in danger…"

"Is it Ansem?" Sora asked.

Krystal read Zelda's thoughts. "I don't think so."

"Zelda," Mia said, sandwiching Zelda's hand between her own. She spoke in a slow, steady, yet tender voice. "We're here to help. You don't have to face this burden alone. Take slow, deep breaths, and tell us what's going on."

Zelda looked at the individuals that stood before her. Their warm presence wrapped around her like a quilt. Every anxious sensation was starting to desiccate. She felt light, as if floating through a tranquil breeze. Although concern would remain sojourn, she was in a better state of mind. It especially helped that she had such supportive friends to guide her through these difficult times.

After taking a moment to compose herself, Zelda enumerated everything she sensed. "With the Triforce of Wisdom in my possession, I can sense the state of my world from afar. A dark power is looming over Hyrule. Full of unrelenting hatred. Makes Ganondorf look benevolent in nature."

Although it sounded low, Luigi and Yoshi let out an audible gulp. Navi felt a weak sensation in her stomach, as if it been corroded in absolute dread.

"And its energy grows with each passing second," Zelda said, clasping her hands together. "Whatever this entity is, I can sense its intentions as malicious. My people are in danger. Link is in danger."

Navi could no longer keep her thoughts and feelings restrained. She flew over to Sora in a panic. "We can't just stand here! My world could cease to be! Please! We have to help Link!"

"Of course we will," Sora said, donning his usual, courageous demeanor. "Link's our friend, too. Zelda, leave it to us. We'll head back to Hyrule and deliver a medieval butt whooping on this thing that's causing trouble."

"A-Are you sure?" Zelda asked, amazed by Sora's alacrity. "Because of me you were intertwined in our conflict with Ganondorf. This threat may be significantly stronger."

"So?" Sora asked. "We're always seeking a good challenge. Need a good warm up before we face Ansem."

Seek a good challenge? Speak for yourself, Luigi thought, trembling in fear.

Zelda let out a large exhale that echoed throughout the chapel, carrying away more of her apprehension. She was fortunate to have met Sora and his friends. They had been vital to Hyrule's salvation. Along with Link. There was no doubt that history would unsheathe its blade again.

"Thank you so much," Zelda said. "Your bravery will not be forgotten."

"Really," Luigi said, as inquietude tickled his throat. "I forget about mine all the time."

Sora and Peach glared at him, while Yoshi rolled his eyes. Just another usual day in the life of Luigi. Deep down, Sora was going to miss being part of it. Or the lives of any of his friends. At least a rescue mission would take his mind off things for the moment.

Sora and his friends hurried to board the Labo Ship. Hyrule's fate once again depended on the group's impeccable teamwork. Anything less would lead to disaster.

With the engines roaring like a fierce lion, the ship began its journey back to Hyrule. Fortunately, Luigi had saved the coordinates, and it didn't seem like it would take too long. But each minute that passed for Navi felt like a slog. She was too bundled up in worry to be aware of everything around her.

"Can't this flying contraption go any faster?" Navi asked, flying in front of Luigi, beaming with impatience.

Luigi sighed in annoyance. "I'm going as fast as I can. But if you keep blocking my view, speed won't matter when we crash into the nearest asteroid."

"A valid argument," Navi said in a sheepish tone.

"Don't worry, Navi," Sora said, staying steady on a balance beam of optimism. "Link's going to be okay. He can handle anything that comes his way. You of all people should know that. He's an incredible hero!"

'I know," Navi said, sitting on top of Luigi's seat. Dejection slid back and forth through her vocal chords. "But I care so much for him. He's like my family. If something were to happen…"

"Saying stuff like that will only work you up even more," Sora said. "Right now, we have to stay focused. We can't afford to have that negativity brush off on us."

"He's right," Isabelle said. "Based on what Zelda said, this new foe may be stronger than Ganondorf. Link's going to need everyone to be at their best. In fact, think how overjoyed Link will be to see you. Let that be your focus."

Navi sighed, feeling a bit relieved from the group's encouragement. "Okay. I'll try. Thank you."

It wasn't long before Hyrule came into view. Navi flew over to the edge of the cockpit, getting a glimpse of the familiar world. Its lush, green skin in the form of grass brightened the surrounding area. Freckles took the form of large dirt patches. The ocean was its eye, staring at the group bright and full of vigor. The others joined Navi in examining the world

"Looks fine to me," Sora said. "You guys notice anything?"

"No," Isabelle said. "We'll probably need to land."

Yoshi noticed something out of the corner of his eye. Upon spinning around, he was frozen in absolute horror. He felt like his stomach was shrinking to the side of a raisin. For a fleeting moment, he was coiled into an inescapable state of overawe. But he managed to unravel the sensation and hide behind a chair, letting out a loud whimper.

"What's wrong?" Sora asked.

Yoshi managed to stick a finger out from behind the chair. "L-Look…over….there…"

The others followed Yoshi's finger and immediately stepped into the same frozen tundra of terror. Looking straight down at Hyrule was the moon. Literally looking down at it. It had a face: a pair of yellow, wide eyes continued its perpetual gander at the hapless world. Its mouth displayed a huge, crooked grin. Of what emotion? It was hard to say. But seeing this intimidating spectator loom overhead would make anyone's courage turn to sawdust.

Sora continued staring in silence, as an uncomfortable sensation took command over his senses. His colorful skin had been painted over with a cold, pallid brush.

Luigi peeked out from the chair, shivering. He didn't even want to look at it. "Well, glad I can finally put a face to my sleep paralysis demon. He'll be ecstatic."

"I assume your moon doesn't have a face," Isabelle said, finding the courage to speak.

"Not that I'm aware of," Navi said, still taken aback.

Yoshi was next to peek out from the chair. "Why it so grumpy looking? Guess it become too self-conscious from all the craters." Luigi glared at him. "What!? Me serious!"

Navi continued to study the moon's features, both terrified and bewildered. "What could this mean?"

"I might have an idea."

Everyone turned to see that Sora was responsible for uttering that sentence. Luigi's jaw dropped in shock, unable to believe what he heard. "P-Pardon?"

"I've seen this moon before," Sora said, with a grim expression.

"A-Are you cursed?" Luigi asked. "D-Do I have to get the hand sanitizer?"

"Cut it out! I'm serious!" Sora said, snapping at him. "Remember that mask I tried on outside Hyrule Village?" It showed me these….strange images (he shudders just reminding himself of the rapid-fire slideshow of untold horrors; the agonizing screams accompanying those visuals droned in his head, sending cold shivers through the spinal cord). "One of them looked like that moon. Frightening face and all."

"Isn't that mask spooky man warned us about?" Yoshi said, with a small, timid whimper.

Sora let out a small grimace. As if seeing that moon was chilling enough. He had to be reminded of that…eccentric sales man. What, with that unusual, wide grin and overexaggerated, peppy personality that flipped to pure, unadulterated anger in seconds. "Yeah. I'm going to take a wild guess and say the mask is responsible for the moon's new look."

"But why does it have a face?" Navi asked. "Is it apart of this mask's 'curse' you speak of?"

"If we have to land on it to find out," Luigi said, trembling as he looked at the moon, "then I'm abandoning ship right now! I'm going to prove that you can hear someone scream from space!"

"Maybe we could blow it up?" Yoshi asked.

"Probably not a good idea," Isabelle said. "For a multitude of reasons. It's still Hyrule's moon, after all."

Sora glanced down at Hyrule, once again in possession of unwavering determination. "That just leaves one option: head down there and find that mask!"

"You'll hear no objections from me!" Navi said, in an urgent tone. "Let's hurry! Hang on, Link! We're on our way!"

And so, the ship made its decent towards Hyrule Fields. The group had no idea where to begin searching for the mask. But being proactive was better than letting their fate be dictated by the moon's next course of action. One thing was certain: it was not here as an agent of benevolence. That elongated grin was delivering a sinister message.

And if the group didn't decipher it soon, they were going to meet with a terrible fate.

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