Several years ago...

(Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep ost - The Promised Beginning)

"Xehanooort." Young Eraqus was running around the hallway, passing a few students as he stopped. "Hey have you guys seen Xehanort?"

"Nope. Haven't seen him." The female student shook her head.

"Try the library." The male student suggested as Young Eraqus nodded and take off.

Young Eraqus eventually found the Libary door and barged in. "Era—"

"Shhh!" The Libarian shushed him.

"Ops. Sorry." Young Eraqus covered his mouth and walk in.

He look around for a few minutes until found Young Xehanort sleeping with a book covering his face.

"There you are." Young Eraqus pull the book off Young Xehanort's face.

"Nngh..." Young Xehanort yawned as he rose up and rub his eyes. "I was taking a nap, you know."

"You always take a nap." Young Eraqus rolled his eyes and then look at the book's title.

Tales of the World.

"You were reading this?" Young Eraqus turns to Young Xehanort who is scratching his hair.

"Just a little bit." Young Xehanort snatch the book as Young Eraqus let out a "hey!". "I did found something quite interesting about the worlds."

"Oh yeah? What's so interesting that we learn from class."

"That there are worlds out there that are distant. How many worlds have we been into?"

"Um..." Young Eraqus fold his arms and tilt his head. "Not sure. I lost caught."

"Figured you say that. We been almost six worlds as we travel with Bragi and the others. I'm feeling a bit bored right now, do you wanna go explore a few places with me?" Eraqus asked

"Are you sure that's a good idea?" Young Eraqus fold his arms as he thinks. "I mean, we haven't gotten permission to leave yet, right?"

"Don't worry your head about it. It will be quick." Young Xehanort got back on his feet and then leave with the book before putting it into a bookshelf.

"Hey wait up!" Young Eraqus ran up to him.

(BGM ended)

Later...

Young Eraqus and Young Xehanort wearing their armor landed on their feet.

"Wow, we finally arrived at a world. This world is certainly a bit distant." Young Eraqus deactivated his armor along with Young Xehanort and then look around. "So where are we exactly?"

"Not that I know of. This is a new world after all." Young Xehanort said as they begin to wonder around.

(Kingdom Hearts: Dream Drop Distance ost - La Cloche)

"So far we appeared to be in a forest. But I definitely feel some presence wondering around here." Young Xehanort said as they walk and notice the mist.

"Oh, are we in some misty area?" Young Eraqus asked.

"Appenterally." Young Xehanort hummed. "We better be careful and not bump into anything and get lost."

"Except we can't see so how are we—oof!" Young Eraqus bump into a wall.

"Well at least you proved my point." Young Xehanort clapped his hands and then notice the street. "Oh? It appears this is the road."

"Well excuse me since it's hard to see in this fog!" Young Eraqus grumbled as he cast magic to blow the fog away. "All right, which way should we go?"

"Hmm..." Young Xehanort look both sides of the road while one leads to another road while the other leads to the path of Legram. "That one." He pointed to the right.

"All right. Here's hoping we don't get lost." Young Eraqus said as they take off. "I wonder what kind of world did we stumbled upon. It's too misty. Should we call it a misty world?"

"No. Hardly befitting. Perhaps we should look at it again." Young Xehanort said until he stumpbed upon a sign.

Legram

"Legram, is it?" Young Xehanort rub his chin. "It must be a town or a village."

"Guess we'll find out if there are Heartless here." Young Eraqus said as they cross the stone arch.

Upon arriving, they see a village as people are chatting and minding their business.

"Oh!" Young Eraqus gasped. "Looks like it is a town."

"On the bright side, at least they look friendly enough." Young Xehanort look around until one townsfolk spotted them.

"Hey there friends!" The villager approached. "Welcome to Legram! It's not often we have visitors."

"Oh nice to meet you! I was wondering who should we talk to after getting lost in the fog." Young Eraqus chuckled.

"Haha. Can't fault you. Lagram is known for having heavy fog lately. It's a good thing you haven't run into any monsters along the way."

"Monsters you say?" Young Xehanort asked.

'Could he mean the Heartless?' Young Eraqus whispered.

"Yeah, you know, you often seen monsters anywhere nowadays. Unless you got rid of them with your weapons. Anyway, it's good to know you guys haven't been caught up with things with the war going on."

"War? What do you mean?"

"Seriously? You haven't been caught up? Wow, you guys must be lucky." The Villager said. "Well, lately there has been a war going on in the capital. Rumor has it that the crown prince was assassinated by Prince Orthros. What's worst, the other princes are fighting to claim the throne. So many armies are fighting across Erebonia. Things are crazy outside. War has been going all out through several regions. Things are going to get worst if the war continues any further. If you're looking for a place to stay, I recommend the Aprikoze Inn."

"Thanks for the recommendation. But we're okay. We can handle ourselves." Young Eraqus smiled

"Oh, are you guys mercenaries?"

"Sort of." Young Xehanort answered.

"Then hope you have a good time here in Legram! Cya!" The villager then take off.

"A war going on in this world?" Young Xehanort hummed.

"Sounds like it's going pretty bad here." Young Eraqus said.

"Indeed. One of the princes' assassinated their siblings to claim the throne. What a vile deed. And the other royalty are fighting for their right to the throne." Young Xehanort fold his arm. "There's no doubt this place is filled with darkness."

"Yeah, you're right." Young Eraqus nodded. "But is this place is filled with that large about of darkness... is there any light?"

"I'm not so certain myself. Perhaps we should look around for a bit. There might be Heartless around here so let us be off." Young Xehanort advised as they leave the village.

Upon their leaving, a certain woman spotted them leaving Legram.

"Hm?" The Woman hummed.

Back with Young Xehanort and Young Eraqus...

"So this world is called Erebonia?" Young Eraqus asked

"I would say so. After all, we stumped upon the village of this world. It's more fitting to call it that." Young Xehanort nodded. "The town hasn't been affected by the war for now, but it won't be long until it ended getting caught."

"I feel bad for the people here. War is.. ugly. Why do people crave for war I wonder..."

"War always has their reasons. Like those princes. They want to rule this world. Power-hungry is one of many forms of darkness. It's ugly to say the least."

"I guess you're right about that. If I know anything about war, is that lives are involved. What do you think we should do, Xehanort?" Young Eraqus asked

"Nothing." Young Xehanort answered

"What? Why?"

"We're only here to visit this world, Eraqus. What's more, this was done in secret without Master Odin approval and the others don't know yet. I'm only here because I'm curious. This world is... very distant. It will take some time until we get back."

"I... I guess you're right..." Young Eraqus sighed. "Then should we leave then?"

(BGM ended)

Before Young Xehanort can answer, he sense a presence coming.

"Wait... something's coming!" Young Xehanort summons his Keyblade.

(Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep ost - Unforgettable)

Something big was coming as it stomp at a rapid paste Young Xehanort and Young Eraqus readied their Keyblades as they look around in this fog until Xehanort look up and a giant ape wooden monster appeared and slam toward then. They jump out of the way and the monster roared.

"Gah! Where did this thing come from?!" Young Eraqus exclaimed. "This looks like a strong Heartless!"

"No, wait, I don't see any resembles to a heartless. It must be a monster that originate from this world." Young Xehanort remark.

"Wait, really?"

The monstered roared.

"Never mind that. This thing might caught trouble for the people of Legram if we let this thing loose. Let's finish it." Young Xehanort stated

"Right!" Young Eraqus took his stand.

Ugly Forest Ape - Grunoka

Grunoka roared at them and then throw a punch but Young Xehanort backflip and then dive toward the ape's face and slash it. Then Young Eraqus lung and unleahs a flurry of slashes. Grunoka shield itself with it arms and then grabbed Young Eraqus and slam him on the ground.

"Augh!" He winched as Young Xehanort used Firaga on its face, causing it to roar, covering its face and then Young Xehanort lung and swing combo at it.

Grunoka throw a fist at Young Xehanort but he spin to dodge and then throw Fireaga at the ape. Grunka spin clockwise for a punch to the ground to generate a shockwave to knock Young Xehanort and Eraqus into the air. They both recovered as the ape was going to clapped them. They lung toward Grunoka and swing at it. It backhanded Young Xehanort as Young Eraqus fired beams of light and rain it down onto its arms and body. Young Xehanort summon two ice cubes and throw it toward Grunoka and struck them.

Young Eraqus slash Grunoka's legs and then backflip to avoid the punch, then summon two beams of light and struck it, following up with Thundaga while Young Xehanort jump and dive for a plunge attack on Grunoka's head. It let out a roar, powerful enough to push Young Xehanort away. Grunoka charge toward Young Eraqus and then throw a punch and then slam the ground. Young Eraqus backlfip and then run to his left. He aim his Keyblade and fire Blizzaga at it. Grunoka jump and then go for a slam attack. Young Eraqus jump high enough to avoid ti and then Young Xehanort swoop in and then swing outward, seeing vertical to his right and then thrust and slash upward.

Grunoka roared and then grabbed piece of the ground and slam it at Young Xehanort to knock it away.

"Ngh!" Young Xehanort grunted.

Young Xehanort impale his Keyblade to the ground to hold his ground as Young Eraqus ran up to slash it. But Grunoka throws punch, but Young Eraqus jump and climb onto the arm and jump to slash the face. Grunoka roared as it covered it's face from taking the hit. Young Eraqus then channeled magical power from the tip of his Keyblade and then fire a sphere of light and exploded on the ape. Young Xehanort jump toward the ape and then let out powerful slashes to it's face and then aim Firaga, causing it to roar in agony as it covered its face and fell on it's back. Young Xehanort landed on his feet. Grunoka got back on its feet and glared at the two Keyblade wielders. It let out a roar as it's repeatedly beast it's chest

"This is one mean monster." Young Eraqus said.

"You're right. Let's take this thing down." Young Xehanort ndoded and then both of them took their stand.

Grunoka charge toward the ground and ready to attack. Young Xehanort summon blocks of stones and throw them at Grunoka who roll to his left. Then Young Eraqus lung toward and combo slash it. Grunoka backhand Young Eraqus but it flip to dodge and then fired Blizzaga onto it's face. Young Xehanort then lung and slash through, repeating it five times around it's angle and then combo strike it's back. Grunoka turn its back and then throw a powerful punch. Young Xehanort dodge but was knock to the wall.

"Ngh!"

"Xehanort!" Young Eraqus yelled as Grunoka throw a fist at him. "Augh!"

Young Eraqus roll on the floor and dropping his Keyblade as Grunoka charge at him. Before it can attack, a lance impale it's arms, causing it to roared in agony and fell to the side.

"Huh?" Young Eraqus blinked as a young woman ran up toward the ape monster, jump to retrieve her lance and then impale its face, causing it to roar in agony until it died into purple mist.

(BGM ended)

The woman landed on feet feet as she was wearing an armor fitting for a knight.

"Are you two all right?" She asked

"Ngh..." Young Xehanort got back on his feet and brush off. "We're fine."

"Yeah." Young Eraqus got back on his feet. "Thanks for the save there."

"It was my pleasure. You handle yourselves well against that beast. But..." She turn to both Keyblade wielders. "Was that magic you both used?"

"Um, yeah? Why?"

"How... precular. I thought magic was just a fairy tale. No one is capable of using magic."

"Oooh..." Young Eraqus grimaced.

(Trails of Cold Steel II ost - Spirit Shrine (Aria of the Saint))

"Who are you two?" She asked, then look at their clothes. "I don't recognize those clothing." Then the Keyblade. "And are those... Key-shaped weapons? Are you both foreigners to this land?"

"Um... well..." Young Eraqus scratch his hair.

"If so, then please be at ease. I won't say anything. Through to be honest. I am quite surprised. I never thought I encounter foreigners in Erebonia while there is a war going on. And witnessing your battle prowess while fighting that monster, and capable of wielding magic... you're no ordinary foreigners."

"I had not realized this world has lost its touch with magic." Young Xehanort said. "I thought that magic existed everywhere."

"This world?" The woman asked

"Ah... Pardon. I've misspoken."

"I see. Well whatever the case, it's evidence you two are no ordinary foreigners. Are you two from Liberl? North Ambria? Crossbell? Or the eastern part of Zemuria?"

"Um... It's a bit complicated. But nice to meet you. My name is Eraqus. And this is Xehanort." Young Eraqus introduced.

"Eraqus and Xehanort? A pleasure. My name is Lianne Sandlot." Lianne introduce herself. "I am a daughter of a count who governs Legram."

"So you're from the nobility?" Young Xehanort asked.

"Correct. However, I'm afraid our time together must be cut short. I must return to Legram shortly and make preparations."

"Preparations?" Young Eraqus asked.

"Is this about the war going on?" Young Xehanort asked

Lianne nodded "Correct. This war is causing much harm in Erebonia. I wish to put an end to this war. You two don't appear to be spies sent by one of the princes. Or the False Emperor Orthos. You both should leave Erebonia. I do not wish you two were to be caught among the war."

"We can take care of ourselves. But you are correct about the war part." Young Xehanort fold his arms. "But how are you going to stop the war?"

"I'm raising an army of elite soldiers to end this war. As we traveled, we would recruit more allies further to strengthen my forces and defeat the False Emperor. The more allies I have, the quickly this war will be over and the people won't suffer from it. If you two are mercenaries, perhaps I may hire you to join me? I'm quite curious about your weapons and fighting style. Although, I would suggest you hid your magic."

"Ahaha..." Young Eraqus scratch his hair. "Unfortunately, that's a big no for us. We're not mercenaries but think of us as rovers."

"Is that so? That is regrettable. But I understand." Lianne smiled. "Perhaps someday we'll meet again as friends."

"Lianne..."

"I should get going. I wish you both on your travels. Until then." Lianne waved goodbye and then she takes off.

"What a curious woman." Young Eraqus smiled.

"Indeed. We should return home." Young Xehanort nodded.

"Hey Xehanort, can we visit this world again? I feel like we should help her."

"Hmm... Well... I guess it wouldn't hurt, but... I'm not exactly sure if we can help her."

"Maybe, but she seems like a good person." Young Eraqus smiled. "Come on. Let's go visit this world when we have a chance."

"All right, I'm curious about this place anyway." Young Xehanort sighed and then he and Eraqus activated their Armor and then open a gateway with their Keyblades and then take off.

The portal closes form behind. Unknown to them, Lianne was hiding among the fog.

"Armor out of nowhere... and a portal..." Lianne hummed. "What kind of power do they have..."

A Week later...

Young Xehanort and Young Eraqus return to Zemuria and wonder in a field.

"Where are we? Are we in Erebonia?" Young Eraqus asked.

"We should be, yes." Young Xehanort nodded his head. "But it appears we're located somewhere else then the place where we meet Lianne."

"Aww, I was hoping we could talk with her. But we don't know where this Legram is anyway."

"Well, all we can do now is wander around this place. Who knows. We might learn more about this world."

"Speaking of this world, this is called Zemuria, right?" Young Eraqus asked

"Right. Erabonia is one of the nations of this world. I'm quite curious to learn more about this world." Young Xehanort replied.

"So where should we go to learn about this world?"

"I would suggest a village over there." Young Xehanort pointed as they go into the village.

As they arrived, they notice that the village is empty.

"Huh? Where is everyone?" Young Eraqus asked.

"Hmm... judging from the look of this village. They must either be hiding in their houses or fled." Young Xehanort said.

"It's you...!" A voice called out to them and Lianne approached them, wearing a female villagers outfit.

Her outfit was red dress with brown boots. White clothing with a red jewel collar.

"Lianne, is that you?" Young Xehanort asked.

"Yes. It has been two weeks since we last saw each other. Eraqus and Xehanort, correct?" Lianne asked

"I guess it has." Young Xehanort said. "Where is everyone?"

"They all left their homes because war is coming to this land. It's not safe here. Please follow me." Lianne said and they take off elsewhere.

To the Eisenritter's base of operation...

"The War within Erebonia has gotten worst?" Young Eraqus gasped.

"Indeed. Many citizens of Erebonia has fallen victim to this. Innocent blood was spilled as the fires of war burn their homes. It was an ugly sight to see." Lianne nodded.

"That's awful..."

"Yes. Which is why we evaluated the nearby towns and villages when war was coming. The more lives we can save, the more chance we have to survive. May I ask what brings you two here?"

"Well, we were hoping we can have a chat with you to learn about... Erebonia. As Rovers as Eraqus put it, we have a habit of wanting to learn."

"You chose an awful time to visit Erebonia. But if you like. I can answer any questions about my homeland. In return. I would like you to face me in combat."

"Huh? Why?" Young Eraqus asked.

"Because I wish to be certain of something in my mind. So, which questions would you like to ask?"

"Well..." Young Xehanort then pick a topic.

List of questions later...

"All right, I think I ask all the questions about Erebonia." Young Xehanort said.

"I am glad I can be of some services. Now it's time to honor your end." Lianne got up.

"All right." Young Xehanort got up with Eraqus and they headed to a large space they can use to fight.

"This area will do." Lianne said and then pull out her Lance. "Then come. Show me your skills in combat, Xehanort, Eraqus."

"You got it!" Young Eraqus summon his Keyblade along with Xehanort.

"Be careful, Eraqus. She's a strong opponent." Young Xehanort said.

And so they lung at each other and then begin to fight.

One fight later...

Lianne, Xehanort and Eraqus panted after their bout.

"I... I think we should called this a draw." Young Eraqus panted.

"Hah... Indeed." Lianne wipe her forehead. "It seems I really won't have to worry."

"Worry about what?" Young Xehanort asked

"I don't sense any ill intentions from you both. Therefore, you're not an unknown enemy. You truly wish to seek knowledge of Erabonia and Zemuria. Therefore I must test you on what do you plan to do with this knowledge. Forgive me for being caution."

"There's no need. It's quite understandable. You're quite formidable. I can see why you're the commander of your forces."

"Flattery won't get you anywhere." Lianne giggled. "May I ask you two something? It's about your weapons. I can sense some... power that is unknown to me. It has this aura that feels otherworldly. Perhaps I can say the same to you both as well?"

"Ah..." Young Eraqus gasped.

"Why do you wish to know?" Young Xehanort asked.

"I've never seen that weapon before. It's very unique. It possesses a unique power that I haven't seen before. A weapon shape like a Key and handles like a blade. Perhaps I can call it a Keyblade?"

"..!" Young Eraqus gasped.

"Perspective. You're right. This is the Keyblade." Young Xehanort replied.

"I... was not expecting it would be an actual answer." Lianne admit.

"A Keyblade is... a unique weapon so to say. But... we're not sure if we can trust you to learn more about it. There is an... order we must follow."

"I understand. Please do not worry yourself. I won't say a word to this to anyone."

"Thank you, Lianne." Young Xehanort smiled. "We should be on our way. Who knows. Maybe we'll meet again."

"Yeah! And maybe we can tell you more about ourselves." Young Xehanort smiled

"I'll be looking forward to learn more about you." Lianne smiled.

Each passing week in Zemuria, Xehanort and Eraqus visit Zemuria while the War of the Lion goes on. They reunited with Lianne and they chatted and sparing with each other. The bonds they form begin to grow. Soon, Eraqus and Xehanort both tell Lianne who they are. The powers of the Keyblade. Lianne was suprised but she kept her word about never telling anyone about their secret. Soon, the battle was coming. And Lianne had to cut time shortly for her otherworldly friends. And thus, Lianne bit farewell to Xehanort and Eraqus. But during the times, they promise not to forget each other as their hearts are connected.

After sometimes in both Scala ad Caelum and Zemuria. Xehanort and Eraqus both graduated and go on their separate paths. They both visit the graves of their late friends. Sorrow fell into their hearts. But they left and move on. As for Lianne. She "died" by the hands of the Vermillion Apocalypse. She was then revived as an Immortal and left Erebonia with Aether.

As time passed, Eraqus became the master to Aqua, Terra, and then Ventus. Xehanort resumes his own goal. A goal that will soon evoke the second Keyblade War. His goal to used the power of darkness to bring "order" to the universe.

In Zemuria...

Somewhere in Zemuria, within the Artifact in Aether's teapot. Lianne was sleeping peacefully in her bed. Until she received a vision showing Xehanort's slaying Eraqus who became as both of them were old men. The next vision was when Xehanort whose eyes are now tainted with darkness summon Kingdom Hearts. He then remove his heart from his body and transfers into Terra. Becoming Terranort.

Lianne open her eyes and gasped in horror.

"Ha... Ha..." Lianne panted heavily as she turn on the lights. "W... What was that... A dream... a vision?" She hold her left arm. "Was... that Xehanort? And... that elderly man... was that Eraqus? Did... Did Xehanort killed Eraqus...?" She covered her mouth in horror. "Why... Why did you do that Eraqus? How could you..."

Times fly later...

"When Zemuria suddenly become one with multiple worlds... I am surprised." Lianne who became Arianrhod was watching the hills of the Mushroom Kingdom. "I never thought it was possible. And yet... can it be possible... for me to visit the world where Eraqus and Xehanort once lived... the world that he struck down his own best friend?" Arianrhod look up into the sky. "I hope someday... my answers will be within reach." She place her hand to her chest. "Eraqus... My dear friend. I swear... if Xehanort were to somehow return... I will avenge you."

And another overdue story I have forgot to update. And low and behold. This is how Lianne first met Xehanort and Eraqus. I thought I had more details about it but due to... focusing on the stories... I kinda lost tract and now... here we are. I'm really sorry for not updating Trails of Adventures everyone. I'm having difficult times coming up with sides stories. Let alone this. I know many of you want to know how Lianne meet Xehanort and Eraqus when they were young. I'm really sorry.