Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

The tide rolled in gently, retreating again with a sigh, as though the island itself was tired. Sunlight stretched across the sand in long, golden streaks. The air was thick with salt, warm but not heavy, and the only sounds were gulls in the distance and the occasional plunk of a stone skipping across the water.

Riku sat at the shoreline, posture sharp even in idleness, flicking pebbles across the waves. He counted each skip under his breath, though the rhythm sounded more like frustration than pastime. Sora lay sprawled on his back a little farther up the beach, arms folded under his head, squinting at the drifting clouds. He pretended to be lost in them, though mostly he was just killing time.

Kairi was the only one who seemed at peace. She knelt in the sand, drawing swirls and flowers with a stick, letting the tide erase each one without complaint. She hummed faintly to herself, the sound mingling with the surf.

The silence between them wasn’t uncomfortable, but it was weighted—Riku restless, Sora calm but curious, Kairi quietly content.

Riku finally broke it with a huff, flinging a pebble harder than before. It skipped twice, then sank. “We’ve done this a thousand times. Same beach, same sky, same everything.”

Sora groaned without opening his eyes. “You’re ruining my nap.”

Kairi laughed softly, glancing at him. “You’re always napping, Sora,” she said, before going back to tracing loops in the sand. Then she turned to Riku, “But even so, I don’t know… I like it here. It feels safe.”

“Safe’s just another word for boring,” Riku muttered. He tossed another pebble, jaw tightening when it didn’t skip as far as he wanted.

Sora shifted against the sand, listening without meaning to. He didn’t say it aloud—he never said things like that aloud—but he could see Riku’s point. The islands were familiar, maybe too familiar. Like a story they already knew the ending to, no matter how many times they reread it.

Still, he let out another exaggerated yawn. “I don’t mind wondering what’s out there. But if we ever did explore…” He cracked a grin. “…we’d just leave today and come back tomorrow. No need to make it complicated.”

The moment lingered there, warm but restless, like the lull before something would inevitably change.

Riku leaned forward on his knees, palms braced against the sand. The horizon stretched endlessly before him, a thin line of blue against the sky. “Don’t you ever wonder what’s out there? Other islands. Other people. Anything but this.”

Sora cracked one eye open, squinting at him. “Of course I wonder. Who wouldn’t?” He stretched his arms above his head, his grin fading into something softer. “But we can’t just ditch the islands for good. I wanna see other worlds too, but if we’re gonna go, it should be for the adventure—not because we’re running away. We've got everything here.”

“Everything,” Riku shot back. His next pebble skipped five times, sharp little taps against the waves. He didn’t look proud. He looked like he wanted it to go farther. “We’re stuck here, Sora. Doesn’t that bother you at all?”

Kairi’s stick stilled in the sand. She tilted her head, eyes soft as they drifted out past the tide. “It doesn’t really bother me,” she said quietly. “But… sometimes I wonder. I can’t remember anything about the place I came from—not a single thing. It’s like it’s just… gone. What if there’s more out there, more pieces of me I don’t even know about?” Her smile tugged wistfully, half to herself. “Thinking about that… it’s kind of exciting.”

Riku glanced at her, and for the first time all afternoon, his expression eased. He leaned back on his hands, letting the waves lap at his ankles. “Exactly. You get it. Leaving the islands isn't impossible.”

Sora rolled onto his side with a groan, though his smirk gave him away. “Here we go,” he muttered. “Next you’re gonna tell us about that kid again.”

Riku’s smirk returned. “Because it’s true. A long time ago, a kid left these islands a long time ago. Found a way out. If he could do it, so can we.”

Sora covered his face with his arm, though there was amusement in his tone. “You’ve told that story a million times, Riku. No one even knows if that kid’s real.”

Riku leaned back on his hands, gaze fixed on the horizon. “He’s real. He has to be. A kid who actually made it off these islands… think about it. If he survived out there, he probably got strong. Strong enough to handle whatever’s waiting beyond the waves.”

Sora peeked at him from under his arm, smirking faintly. “Or he’s just some old legend.”

Sora propped himself up on his elbows, half-smiling despite himself. “A raft, huh?” His laugh was disbelieving, but not dismissive. “C'mon Riku, you really think a raft could take us that far? What if we get lost...?

“Then at least we’ll know.” Riku’s voice was steady, certain. He turned fully toward them, eyes bright with that spark of challenge he always carried. “Would you rather sit here the rest of your life, never even trying?”

Before Sora could respond, Kairi’s voice cut in—lighter, brighter. She leaned back on her hands, smiling up at Riku with a look that made Sora’s chest tighten. “I think it sounds amazing,” she said. “It’d be an adventure. I’ve always wanted to see what’s out there.”

Riku’s grin widened. “Glad you’re on board.”

Sora sat up straighter, heat prickling behind his ears. “So what—you’re just gonna believe some story and sail off into the ocean?” His voice cracked between disbelief and defensiveness, though the grin tugging at his lips betrayed him.

Kairi laughed, brushing her hair behind her ear. “You worry too much, Sora.” Her tone was teasing, but gentle, like she knew he couldn’t help it.

Riku’s smirk sharpened, eyes glinting with challenge. “What’s the matter? Scared?”

“I’m not scared!” Sora shot back instantly, cheeks warm. He scratched the back of his neck, fumbling for words before blurting, “I just think… we should be smart about it. You know—leave today, come back tomorrow. Adventure’s fun, but… we’ll need to return back home eventually.”

Their bickering might have spiraled further if Kairi hadn’t clapped her hands together, cutting through the tension. “Enough, you two. If we did something like this, it’d be together. That way it wouldn’t be scary at all.”

Riku shrugged, satisfied enough. He started walking back toward the dock, calling over his shoulder, “Then it’s settled. We’ll make it happen.”

Kairi lingered behind, her gaze still caught on the horizon. She hugged her knees loosely, her voice softer now, almost vulnerable. “I really do want to see what’s out there…”

Sora’s irritation ebbed, leaving something else in its place. He looked at her, and for once, didn’t try to make a joke. “Then we’ll go,” he said quietly. “I’ll make sure of it.”

Kairi’s laughter lingered in the air, warm and easy, but it only made the knot in Sora’s chest tighten. He hated how naturally she smiled at Riku’s ideas, how easily Riku could draw that look from her. He wanted to be the one she looked at like that.

Before the feeling could sink its claws in too deep, Sora sprang to his feet, brushing sand from his shorts. He grabbed the wooden sword lying nearby and rested it against his shoulder, forcing a grin. “Alright then! If we’re really doing this, let’s make it interesting. First one to collect wood for the raft gets to be captain!”

Riku scoffed, not bothering to stand yet. “Captain? Only a little kid would care about something like that.”

“Hey!” Sora snapped, cheeks burning hotter.

Kairi giggled behind her hand, watching the two of them with sparkling eyes as the sun dipped lower on the horizon—her two best friends, already turning a promise into a competition.

It had only been an hour since Sora's disappearance. 

In the vast Ocean Between, The Gummi ship drifted silently through the void, a soft hum accompanying the rhythm of its journey. The stars outside twinkled like distant dreams, their light a reminder of the vastness of the universe, yet none of them seemed as bright as they once had. Inside the ship, the atmosphere was thick with tension, the weight of unspoken worry pressing down on the Guardians of Light. It was ironic how the esteemed ship was said to "run on happy faces", yet this voyage was fresh out of them at the moment.

The ship sped toward Yen Sid's Mysterious Tower, a silent urgency in the air, as though they needed his wisdom to make sense of Sora's sudden disappearance.

Kairi sat in the corner, her knees drawn up to her chest. Her hands were tightly clenched around her legs, as though holding herself together could somehow stop the pieces of her heart from splintering. Her eyes, red and swollen from hours of crying, barely registered the faint glow of the stars outside the window. She had lost track of how many tissues she had gone through. The box was practically empty now, but the tears kept coming, an endless tide she couldn’t control.

"Why did you have to use that..." she whispered to herself, referring to the Power of Waking, the words a broken plea. "Why did you have to leave us?"

Her voice barely broke the silence in the room, but she couldn’t bring herself to speak any louder. The others—the Guardians—were in their own worlds, just as lost. Riku leaned against the wall, arms crossed and eyes narrowed as if trying to will some way to understand what had happened. His gaze flickered to her briefly, a soft concern in his expression, but he didn’t speak. He never did, not with the weight of this.

Kairi's fingers traced the edge of the window, her reflection staring back at her, a hollow version of herself. Her heart felt like it was drifting out in space, floating aimlessly without direction. She had never been so lost.

What was the point of this journey, anyway? What was she supposed to be doing? She trained relentlessly with Lea and Merlin, they fought so hard, so long, nearly lost their lives. So much went into simply defeating Xehanort and protecting the worlds. But none of that seemed to matter when Sora was gone.

It wasn't fair. Why was Sora gone, but she was still here?

If only she had been stronger, maybe she could have stopped him. If only she had reached him before the darkness consumed his heart, before he felt the need to sacrifice everything just to save the ones he loved.

Her thoughts spiraled, a tangled mess of guilt and grief. The truth was too painful to face. She hadn’t even said goodbye. She hadn’t been able to tell him how much he meant to her, how much he always had, even before they set out on this crazy adventure. And now... now he was gone.

The Power of Waking. The magic that could reach into hearts, that could mend what was broken, was supposed to bring him back. But it had only taken him away, leaving her here, staring at the cold, endless expanse of space, trying to hold onto a love that had never been fully realized.

Everyone seemed to share in that distraught, even if they weren't nearly as open as Kairi.

Donald and Goofy were sitting close by, their faces drawn with concern, their attempts at light conversation failing to mask the sadness in their eyes. Roxas, Xion, and Lea each sat at different points in the ship, looking out at the vast expanse of space, their minds clearly elsewhere, the tension in the air thick enough to cut with a blade. Terra stood in the corner, arms crossed tightly, his expression unreadable, but Kairi knew the storm of emotions raging behind his stoic demeanor. Aqua was quietly looking down, her hands folded in her lap, the weight of their journey and the uncertainty of their next steps etched across her face. Ventus was beside her, staring at the floor, his usual cheerful spark dimmed, and Isa sat at the back of the ship, his eyes distant, though his sharp gaze occasionally flicked to Kairi, a silent offering of support.

Meanwhile, King Mickey piloted the ship with focused determination, his hands steady on the controls, but even he couldn’t mask the concern that tugged at his heart. According to Riku, he was the one most adamant about Sora not using the Power of Waking before he left. His eyes would occasionally flicker to Kairi in the rearview mirror, silently wishing he could offer more.

Kairi hated it.

She hated that her first meeting with Terra and Xion had been under these circumstances, that the reunion with Hayner, Pence, and Olette had been tainted by the loss of Sora. What should’ve been a celebration, a time of joy and triumph, now felt like a cruel joke. The very reason they had all come together—Sora’s sacrifice—left a bitter taste in her mouth. It wasn’t supposed to be like this. She should’ve been able to embrace her friends, to revel in the reunion. But Sora was missing, and nothing felt right anymore.

Donald and Goofy exchanged a glance across the aisle. Neither of them had ever been good at moments like this—not the kind that weren’t solved by a quick plan or a good laugh. But sitting there, watching Kairi shrink into herself, they couldn’t just stay put.

Donald was the first to move, waddling over with a hesitant frown. “Uh… Kairi?” His voice cracked slightly, softer than usual. “You doin’ okay?”

Kairi blinked up at him, her expression pained. “No,” she admitted, her voice trembling. “I’m… I’m not okay. And I don’t think I could be. Not after…” Her gaze dropped back to her lap. “Not after all of this.”

Goofy knelt down beside her, his big gloved hands resting gently on his knees. “Gawrsh, what’s on your mind?”

Kairi’s breath caught. “It’s my fault,” she whispered. “All of it. If I’d just been stronger… maybe Xemnas wouldn’t have been able to kidnap me. Maybe Sora wouldn’t have…” Her voice trailed off, breaking on the last words.

Before she could sink deeper into that thought, Goofy reached into his vest and pulled out a neatly folded handkerchief. He offered it to her with a warm, almost fatherly smile.

“Now hold on there, Kairi,” he said gently. “Ain’t none of this your fault. You were fightin’ with all your heart, same as the rest of us. Sora made his choice ‘cause he cares about ya—‘cause he cares about all of us. Blamin’ yourself… that’s just too heavy for one person to carry.”

Kairi hesitated before taking the handkerchief. It was warm from his pocket, and for some reason, that made her eyes sting even more.

“Kairi,” Goofy said softly, his voice warm with concern. “I know you’re feelin’ lost right now, but you don’t have to go through this alone.” He paused, placing an affectionate and fatherly hand to the girl's shoulder. “We’re all here for ya, and we’re gonna bring Sora back safe n' sound. You can count on that.”

Kairi swallowed the lump in her throat but couldn’t bring herself to say anything right away. She kept her eyes on the stars outside, trying to force back the tears that threatened to spill. Goofy, however, didn’t seem to mind the silence. He sat there beside her, just offering his presence, until she finally spoke, her voice barely above a whisper.

"I don’t know what to do without him, Goofy... everything feels so... empty without Sora."

Goofy didn’t speak for a moment. Instead, he gently placed a hand on her shoulder, the touch steady and kind. “I get it, Kairi. I really do.” He sighed softly, looking out at the stars with her. “But ya know, Sora’s the type who always comes back. He’s got that... heart of his, y’know? Stronger than anything.”

Kairi didn’t look up at him. Her gaze stayed fixed on the stars outside the window, the starlight flickering by like distant memories. She couldn’t help the emptiness gnawing at her. Her heart felt hollow. I don’t even feel him anymore, she thought. Sora... he’s not even here in my heart.

“I don’t feel him,” she said, her voice barely more than a whisper. “I don’t even feel his connection anymore. It’s like... like I’m all alone, and I don’t know how to fix it. I’ve never felt this empty before.” Her chest tightened as she spoke, the words coming out in a choked breath.

Goofy’s eyes softened, and he looked around at the others briefly before focusing back on her. “You’re not alone, Kairi,” he said gently, his voice reassuring. “We’re all here with ya. And no matter how empty you feel, we’ll fill that space together.” He gave her a small, earnest smile. “Sora’s the kind who doesn’t stay down for long. He’ll be back—he always finds a way.”

“Goofy’s right,” Donald said, looking at Kairi with a determined glint in his eyes. “Sora can be reckless sometimes, sure, but he’s strong. He always pulls through, no matter how tough things get. You’ve seen it yourself.”

Kairi glanced at him, searching his face for reassurance, but the doubt was still there. "I just... I don’t know how to keep going without him. I’m not sure I can do this.”

Riku, who had been quietly standing a few steps away, finally approached. He crouched down beside Kairi, offering her a small, comforting smile. “We all need to keep going,” he said softly. “Because as long as we believe in each other, we’ll find a way. Sora’s not the only one who’s strong. You’re stronger than you think, Kairi. And you’re never alone. Not now, not ever.”

Kairi noticed his hand tremble ever so slightly, a subtle hint that he was trying to hide the pain he was feeling; she knew Riku too well, and she could see the hurt in his eyes—he was just as devastated by Sora’s disappearance as she was.

Even so, she met his gaze, the smallest flicker of hope lighting up inside her. Kairi nodded slowly, the weight on her chest lifting just a little.

“That’s the spirit, Kairi! And you don’t gotta do it all alone. We’re all in this together," Goofy said, giving her an encouraging pat on the back.

Donald nodded, looking at her with a rare, gentle smile. “Just remember: smile, Kairi. That’s what powers the ship. You keep smiling, and we’ll keep moving forward.”

"Hey, everyone," Mickey called back from the front of the ship, his voice steady but filled with a hopeful energy. "We’ll be at the Mysterious Tower soon! Master Yen Sid will know what to do about Sora. I’m sure of it!"

"Yeah! The King's right, Master Yen Sid's got all the answers!" Donald said, looking to Kairi. "And you know Sora wouldn’t give up on us. We can’t give up on him, either."

"A-hyuck, exactly!" Goofy gave a reassuring smile as he placed a hand on her shoulder again.

Kairi’s lips twitched upward, a faint smile forming, but it was brittle, barely covering the ache in her chest. "I know… It’s just… I don’t want to lose him forever," she confessed softly, her voice nearly drowned by the weight of her emotions.

From the back of the ship, Ventus leaned casually against the wall, arms folded behind his head as a thoughtful smile tugged at his lips. "Sora’s strong. He’s faced down worse and always found a way through. We just have to trust that he’s out there, doing everything he can to come back to us."

Aqua, who'd been quietly watching from the side, stood up and walked over to Kairi. She gently placed a hand on her shoulder, her expression full of quiet resolve. "We’ll do whatever it takes to bring him back, Kairi. You’re not alone in this."

"We all know what Sora means to us, Kairi. He wouldn't want us to lose hope," Terra stepped forward, his voice steady and full of resolve. "We're stronger together, and we'll do whatever it takes to bring him back."

"Yeah, I wouldn't be counting Sora out just yet," Lea quipped. "The kid's stubborn as a brick wall when it comes to his friends. If anyone can fight his way back, it’s him. You just have to hang in there a little longer." His tone was casual, but there was an undeniable warmth in his words.

Kairi felt the tightness in her chest loosen as the words of her friends wrapped around her like a comforting embrace. She wiped away the fresh tears with the back of her arm, her smile wavering but genuine. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice a little shaky. "I don’t know what I’d do without all of you. I’ll keep going...we’ll bring Sora back together."

Just as Kairi's smile began to settle, Mickey's voice rang out from the cockpit, cutting through the quiet. "Hey, everyone! We're here! The Mysterious Tower’s just ahead!"

Kairi’s gaze shifted toward the front of the ship, her heart picking up speed. The silhouette of the tower loomed in the distance, a dark, imposing structure perched atop a cliff, framed by swirling clouds. The tower itself seemed to stretch endlessly upward, with jagged spires and a crescent-shaped balcony that could be seen faintly even from this far away. The large stone castle looked ancient, its walls lined with tall, arched windows, the kind that seemed to hold the secrets of countless years. Kairi felt a surge of butterflies just seeing this place again.

The Gummi Ship touched down gently on the soft grass just outside the Mysterious Tower, the quiet hum of the ship’s engines fading as the door slid open.

Mickey stepped out first, leading the group towards the looming entrance of the castle. Pence, however, was a few steps behind, enthusiastically snapping photos with his old polaroid camera, determined to document every moment for the scrapbook he’d been working on. Isa and Naminé exchanged curious looks as they took in their surroundings—this place was like nothing they’d ever seen before. Though Isa remained calm, a quiet admiration was evident in his eyes as he took in the towering stone walls. Naminé, on the other hand, couldn’t help but stare up in awe at the high, vaulted ceilings of the grand entrance.

Roxas and Xion walked together a bit farther behind, sharing a quiet moment of reflection; the castle’s majesty felt oddly familiar, almost like a piece of something they couldn't quite grasp, a distant memory tied to their connection with Sora.

Kairi stood back, letting her friends move on ahead as she wandered into the courtyard, her heart heavy with the weight of the journey ahead. The towering spires of the castle loomed above her, casting long shadows across the grass, and the soft rustle of the wind through the trees was the only sound that broke the quiet. She felt small in this vast place, and the absence of Sora by her side made everything feel emptier than it should have. She looked around, trying to focus on the beauty of the tower, but the ache in her chest was hard to ignore. The courtyard, though peaceful, only served as a reminder of what they had lost. She closed her eyes for a moment, her hands trembling slightly as she tried to quiet her thoughts, holding on to the faint glimmer of hope that Yen Sid might have the answers they so desperately needed.

The girl's mind drifted back to her first visit to the Mysterious Tower, remembering how Riku had picked her up from Destiny Islands after completing his Mark of Mastery exam, filled with such determination to become a Keyblade wielder—little did she know then how much their paths would change and how much they’d all have to face in the days to come.

The group ascended the winding staircase to the top of the Mysterious Tower in somber silence. Once at the top, Mickey and Yen Sid exchanged a quiet look before Mickey stepped forward, his face somber as he motioned for the group to settle. The elderly wizard already clued in on what happened the moment they returned to his tower without Sora accompanying them.

Yen Sid's voice was calm but firm as he addressed the group. "Please, explain from the beginning what happened. I need to understand everything."

Mickey nodded and stepped forward, his voice heavy. “Sora tried to use the Power of Waking to save Kairi, but something went wrong. He vanished, right on the Destiny Islands. We tried searching the island, but there was no sign of him there. We don’t know what to do next, Yen Sid.” Mickey’s eyes flickered briefly to Kairi before he added, “We need your help.”

"I will assist you, of course. This is a grave matter." Yen Sid paused for a moment before continuing. "However, I would appreciate a word with you privately, Mickey. There are certain details that we must discuss."

"Of course, sir," Mickey gave a small nod in understanding, his expression serious. "Let's talk in the wardrobe room." He turned to the group, giving them a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, I'll be back soon. We'll get to the bottom of this." With that, he followed Yen Sid out of the room, leaving the others to wait.

Yen Sid gestured for Mickey to follow him, leading him into the wardrobe room for a private discussion. It was a necessary conversation—one that could not be interrupted. The others, sensing the delicate nature of the moment, remained still, each person lost in their thoughts. Kairi’s heart ached with the uncertainty of Sora’s fate, and even as her friends were there with her, she couldn’t shake the feeling of loneliness that seemed to linger. With the door closing softly behind them, the room seemed to grow even quieter, the heaviness of their shared sorrow palpable in the air.

Kairi couldn’t help but feel a slight pang of unease as The King and Yen Sid stepped out of the room to speak privately. The sudden exclusion made her feel a little unsettled, as if there were something they weren’t meant to know. Still, she reassured herself that it must be something important, something the two of them needed to discuss alone. Yen Sid, after all, was wise beyond measure, and Mickey trusted him implicitly. If they thought it was necessary, then perhaps it was better not to question it. As much as she wanted answers, Kairi knew that sometimes, there were matters too delicate to share with everyone.

Everyone else waited patiently in the Sorcerer's Chamber, the silence between them thick with anticipation. Riku leaned against the wall, arms crossed, his mind drifting to thoughts of what Mickey and Yen Sid could be discussing. He wasn’t exactly familiar with the Power of Waking—he’d only used it once, during his journey to the Realm of Darkness to save Aqua. His understanding of the power was limited at best, and now it felt like a distant puzzle, the pieces too scattered to make sense of. Glancing repeatedly at Master Yen Sid’s grandfather clock in the corner of the room, Riku couldn’t help but notice how the minutes seemed to stretch endlessly. The tick of the clock only heightened the tension, its steady rhythm mocking his impatience.

Meanwhile, Naminé tried to occupy herself, her fingers working through a sketchbook as she drew absentmindedly. The soft scratching of her pencil filled the air, but even she couldn’t fully escape the undercurrent of worry that weighed on the room. Ventus, on the other hand, seemed almost incapable of sitting still. He squirmed in his seat, shifting his position repeatedly as if the chair itself was uncomfortable, though it was clear the restlessness was born of nervous energy. He shot occasional glances around the room, his eyes full of quiet unease.

Donald kept paced back and forth around the room, his webbed feet tapping loudly on the floor with each step. The sound grew steadily more irritating as he continued his endless circuit, the rhythm becoming a metronome of tension. Riku couldn’t help but glance at him in annoyance, though he knew Donald meant no harm. Everyone was simply waiting for the conversation to end, the silence growing more oppressive with each passing minute.

The silence in the Sorcerer's Chamber was finally broken by Hayner’s voice, rising with frustration. "What’s taking so long?!" he grumbled, pacing near the entrance. "We need to know what’s going on! Why are they talking in there for so long?" His tone was impatient, a mix of worry and annoyance creeping into his words.

"Hayner, we have to be patient," Pence said. "They're trying to figure this out, okay? We can’t rush them."

Olette nodded in agreement, her voice soft but firm. "You should have some respect for Master Yen Sid and the King," she said. "They're working on something important, and rushing them won’t help." Hayner shifted uncomfortably but didn’t argue. He understood.

Still, the frustration was evident in his voice when he spoke again. "I know, I know... but it feels like we've been waiting forever. We need to find Sora now!" His hands balled into fists at his sides, his desire to do something, anything, to bring their friend back overwhelming him. "I just... I want him back."

Roxas looked at Hayner with a knowing expression. "I know how you feel," he said quietly, his voice tinged with empathy. "Waiting like this...it’s tough, especially with everything Sora’s done for us. He’s always been the one to pull us out of tough spots, so I get why you’re frustrated."

After what felt like an eternity of waiting, the doors to the wardrobe room finally creaked open, and both Master Yen Sid and Mickey stepped out. Kairi's heart skipped a beat as her eyes locked on Mickey’s face, her stomach fluttering with nerves. His expression was soft, but there was a sadness lingering in his eyes that only made her heart ache more. She felt this meant there could only be bad news awaiting them.

Yen Sid’s voice broke through the silence, rich and steady as usual. “First and foremost, I would like to congratulate all of you for your bravery and perseverance in defeating Master Xehanort. Your efforts were nothing short of remarkable.” He paused, his gaze sweeping over the group. “Additionally, I am pleased to finally make acquantience with the likes of Roxas, Naminé, Xion, and Isa face-to-face. Your connections to Sora are evident, and I trust you all share his strength and courage.”

Naminé was the first to speak, her voice soft but respectful as she gently bowed to Master Yen Sid, her petite frame barely shifting as she held her sketchbook in both hands. "I’ve heard much about you, Master Yen Sid," she said, her words sincere. "It’s an honor to finally meet you in person."

Roxas, standing next to her, offered a simple but respectful nod, acknowledging Yen Sid’s words. Xion followed suit, giving a quiet nod of her own, her expression calm but serious.

Isa was standing slightly apart from the others. "It’s an honor to meet you as well, Master Yen Sid," he said, his gaze unwavering. "While I regret the mistakes I made getting here, it is still an honor to officially meet you." His words carried a sense of humility, and despite the weight of his past, there was a quiet sincerity in his tone.

"The pleasure belongs to me as well.” Master Yen Sid said, his tone steady and filled with a quiet authority. His eyes, sharp as ever, swept over the group before he continued, his voice never wavering. “I have heard much about your bravery, and now, I see it firsthand. I recognize the immense difficulty of defeating Xehanort and the true Organization XIII, but you all managed to overcome it. Your strength and resolve have been nothing short of remarkable."

The elderly man’s voice softened, carrying the weight of wisdom. "In the face of insurmountable challenges, each of you displayed an unwavering courage that I will forever honor. The Keyblade War, and everything that led to it, tested you all in ways few could endure. Yet, through it all, you stood firm." His gaze swept over them, eyes filled with both admiration and solemnity. "Your resolve, your willingness to fight for the light, has kept the darkness at bay and ensured the safety of countless worlds. For that, you have my deepest gratitude."

“Yeah, thanks guys! You all did an amazing job—couldn’t have done it without each and every one of you!” Mickey said, finally giving a smile. His eyes held genuine gratitude. “You really went above and beyond. You’re all heroes in my book.”

“Furthermore, your efforts in halting Xehanort’s schemes seem to have had a profound effect. At present, we are seeing fewer Heartless wandering the worlds. It appears that the darkness he sought to unleash has been stifled—for now, at least.” Yen Sid acknowledged.

Mickey nodded in agreement. His usual optimism was tempered with the gravity of the situation, but there was a sense of relief in his voice as he spoke. "Yeah, and it looks like there aren’t any more signs of Xehanort at the moment either. It seems like he’s been dealt with for now." His eyes flickered briefly toward Kairi, his expression a mixture of sadness and concern, but he quickly turned his attention back to the group. "But that doesn’t mean we can rest just yet. There’s still a lot we need to figure out."

Lea couldn't help but smirk, a playful glint in his eyes. "Well, looks like ‘The On-the-Fly Keyblade Team’ really pulled through in the end, huh?"

“Where did that name even come from?” Xion said, raising an eyebrow.

Lea shrugged nonchalantly. “We needed something snappy to call ourselves, didn't we? You can’t just go around without a name.”

"How can you make jokes at a time like this?" Isa scoffed.

Lea shrugged, grinning. "Hey, I’m just trying to brighten the mood. We’ve earned a little fun, right?”

“I kinda like the name, actually.” Ventus chuckled softly.

Lea’s smirk widened, clearly pleased. “See? At least Ven’s got my back. Unlike some people.” He shot a playful glance at Isa, who just rolled his eyes.

Roxas’s expression grew serious, and he placed a hand over his chest, where his heart felt unnervingly still. “I’m worried about Sora," he admitted softly. "Usually, I can normally feel him—his presence in my heart. But now... it's gone.” His voice faltered slightly, betraying the unease that had settled within him.

Ventus glanced at Roxas before looking down at the ground. “I can’t feel him either," he confessed, his voice carrying a hint of confusion and concern. "Sora’s always been there, in my heart... but now, it’s just... empty.”

"I’m the same. I can’t feel him at all.” Xion nodded somberly. Her words were quiet, but there was a weight to them, as though she were carrying a burden she couldn’t quite put into words.

Kairi lingered on the edge of the group, a quiet weight pressing against her chest. The same unsettling sense of emptiness gnawed at her, but she kept her silence. Her fingers absently traced the delicate curve of her necklace, the familiar touch grounding her, though her thoughts were far from calm. Sora’s absence was a quiet ache, and though the others had voiced their fears, Kairi chose not to add her own. She couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something more she wasn’t seeing, something they all might be missing. Yet, she kept her doubts to herself, unwilling to add any more weight to the growing concern that already hung thick in the air.

Her furrowed her brow, a knot forming in her chest. “What do you mean by that?” she asked softly, her voice trembling with a mix of fear and confusion.

Yen Sid’s expression grew solemn, the weight of his words pressing heavily on him. “It is not easy to say,” he began, his tone tinged with regret. “I'm afraid I will need more time to discuss the situation more closely with Mickey, Merlin, the Fairy Godmother, and the Three Good Fairies. However, there is one conclusion I regret to inform." He paused for a moment, his gaze shifting to Mickey before returning to the group. “Sora has… disappeared from this world.”

Kairi stood frozen, the weight of Yen Sid’s words crashing over her like a tidal wave. Her heart pounded, her chest tightening as the truth began to sink in. Sora... is gone? Her hands instinctively went to her chest, but she couldn’t quell the storm of emotions building inside her. "Sora... is gone?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Does that mean... Sora’s y'know, dead?" Hayner nervously asked.

Olette shot him a furious look, her voice cutting through the room like a blade. "Hayner! How could you—?"

But Yen Sid interrupted her, his tone calm but heavy. "It’s alright," he said. "The question is not an easy one, and it’s not an answer we can fully give. We do not know for certain. We have no knowledge of where Sora’s heart is, nor his body or soul. What we do know is that he has disappeared from this world."

Riku stood to the side, his expression unreadable at first. But inside, he was reeling. He had always believed in Sora’s strength, always counted on him to find a way back no matter how impossible the odds seemed. The thought of him... gone... sent a chill down his spine. He clenched his fists, fighting to hold back the shock, the anger, and the fear that surged within him.

Yen Sid continued, his voice lowering with a sigh. "I wish Sora had used the Power of Waking more wisely, but... he made his choice. He used it to save a friend, and that selflessness is something we should all respect. Though costly, it was a decision made out of love and courage."

Kairi’s heart tightened, the ache in her chest growing with each passing word. She wanted to scream, to demand that this wasn’t real, that Sora couldn’t be lost. But she held her silence, knowing that Yen Sid’s words were the truth. She glanced at Riku, his face pale, his usually calm demeanor shattered by the news.

Riku, his eyes distant, struggled to process everything. Sora... He had been there for so many battles, so many moments. The idea that he might never see his best friend again was a cruel reality that didn’t seem real. "We’re going to find him," he muttered to himself, though even he wasn’t sure how.

Kairi nodded, though her throat felt tight. They had to find him.

Yen Sid’s gaze remained steady, though there was a faint shadow of concern in his eyes. “The Power of Waking is...an anomaly,” he began, his tone deliberate as if weighing each word. “Even I do not fully understand its nature. It is not a power that can be easily controlled or predicted.” He glanced at each of them, his voice softening with the weight of the unknown. “What I do know is that it leads the user down many possible paths, each one unpredictable, and each one with its own consequences. I do not know how to bring someone back from where Sora has gone, but I believe there may still be a way.”

Riku’s eyes widened slightly, the implications of Yen Sid’s words sinking in. “You’re saying there’s still a chance?”

Yen Sid nodded slowly. "I believe there may be," he said, his voice heavy with the weight of the unknown. "But we must be careful. The Power of Waking is unpredictable. While it may have allowed Sora to reach places none of us could have imagined, it has also led him to a place we cannot yet follow. The task ahead will not be easy, and the path may not be clear." He looked at them all, his eyes steady. "However, this is not a challenge we are unprepared for. We must be vigilant and explore every possibility, even those that seem out of reach."

Kairi stood silently, her mind swirling with the idea of endless possibilities—ways to bring Sora back. But the uncertainty of it all left her with a gnawing feeling in her chest. Would they ever see him again? Could they really reach him, wherever he was? She squeezed her fists at her sides, determined not to give in to doubt.

Lea ran a hand through his spiky hair. “Wait, hold on. So, are you saying that Sora could be...anywhere? Like, literally anywhere? How is that supposed to help us find him?”

“What Master Yen Sid means is that the Power of Waking is unpredictable,” Terra explained, his tone calm but serious. “Sora’s ability to travel between worlds has always been tied to it, and now, it seems that power has scattered him across different possible paths. There’s no telling exactly where he could have ended up.”

Lea’s confusion didn’t entirely fade, but the explanation made some sense. “So, you’re saying that wherever Sora is, it could be in some place we can’t even imagine?”

Mickey nodded. “Exactly. The Power of Waking is more of a force than a tool—it bends the rules of reality and can open doors to places that don’t follow the same logic we’re used to. Sora might be somewhere completely outside our reach… but we still have to try.”

Riku, who'd been listening intently, clenched his fists. "This only makes it more urgent that we start searching now," he said, voice steady with resolve. "We can't waste any time trying to figure it out. We need to act."

Kairi’s brow furrowed in thought, the weight of the situation pressing on her chest. "But where do we even start? If Sora could be anywhere…how do we even begin searching for him?"

"If the Power of Waking is tied to the heart," Mickey said, his tone thoughtful, "Then we’ll need someone who truly understands the heart—someone who knows its deepest mysteries." His eyes brightened as a thought struck him. "We need an expert."

Donald and Goofy exchanged confused looks, both scratching their heads. "An expert on the heart?" the duck repeated, his voice puzzled. "Who do you mean, Your Majesty?"

Goofy nodded, equally unsure. "Yeah, I'm not quite sure who you're talkin' about either."

Riku’s eyes widened slightly as the pieces started to fall into place. "Wait...I think I know who you mean," he said, his voice clicking with realization. "Ansem the Wise. Right, Mickey?"

"Right," Mickey nods. "Ansem's a researcher of the heart after all. So I'm sure he'd be able to give us some help."

Kairi's eyes lit up as the name clicked for her as well. "That's right! He helped us before—he must know something about the heart and how to bring someone back."

Riku gave a nod, determination setting in. "If anyone can help us find Sora, it’s Ansem the Wise. We need to go to Radiant Garden and ask him if he can guide us."

Yen Sid's eyes glimmered with approval as he nodded, his voice steady and filled with confidence. "Indeed, that is a splendid idea. Ansem the Wise’s expertise in the study of hearts is unparalleled. His research has already proven invaluable in restoring those connected to Sora’s heart, such as Roxas and Namine."

He paused for a moment, as if reflecting on the many trials they had faced together. "If anyone can shed light on this situation, it is he. His knowledge of the heart and its intricacies may hold the key to finding Sora, or at least, to understanding what happened to him."

Mickey nodded solemnly, a flicker of hope in his eyes. "I’ve always believed that Ansem’s work could help us in times like this." He turned to face the group, determination strengthening his voice. "Then it’s settled. We’ll head to Radiant Garden and seek his guidance."

Kairi's heart swelled with a flicker of hope as Yen Sid's words resonated within her. The thought of Ansem the Wise, with his deep knowledge of hearts, guiding them toward the answers they so desperately needed, gave her renewed determination. She was about to speak, eager to take the first step toward finding Sora, when Aqua stepped forward, her expression calm but firm.

"I appreciate the suggestion," Aqua began, her voice steady yet filled with an undeniable sense of resolve. "But I’m afraid I'll have to decline."

"Huh?" Mickey gasped, "What do you mean, Aqua?"

"On the way here, I started thinking about what could have happened to Sora," Aqua answered. "I think his heart might have fallen into the darkness after he used the Power of Waking," she continued with determination in her tone. "And if that's the case, then I think that Sora might be somewhere in the Realm of Darkness, and if that's the case then I'd like to travel back into the dark realm to see if he's there."

"Aqua, what are you saying?" Terra gasped.

Ventus blinked, taken aback by Aqua’s suggestion. His eyes widened in disbelief. "Wait, the Realm of Darkness? Aqua, are you sure? That place is—"

"I know, Ven," Aqua interrupted softly, her gaze steady. "It’s dangerous. But it’s a place that’s closely tied to Sora’s journey. I can’t shake the feeling that it might be where he’s ended up."

Terra stepped forward, his face shadowed with concern. "Aqua, I know I've never been in the Realm of Darkness before, but I’ve heard enough about it to know it’s not a place to take lightly." His voice tightened. "We’ve already seen what happens when you go there. Look at what happened to you."

Aqua’s gaze softened as she met his eyes, fully aware of what he meant. "I know what happened last time, Terra. But this is different. Sora needs us. If there's even the slightest chance he's ended up there, I have to go."

"Aqua, I understand your determination, but the Realm of Darkness...it’s not something anyone should rush into. Not alone, especially not after everything you’ve been through down there." Mickey said, his voice faltering slightly, a note of worry creeping in. "I don’t want to see you risk yourself again."

Aqua turned to him with a small, understanding smile. "I’ve learned a lot since then, Mickey. I know the risks, but I can’t ignore this feeling. If Sora’s there, I need to find him."

Ventus’s eyes widened, his voice sharp with disbelief. “That’s crazy-talk, Aqua! There’s no way you should be going back there! After everything that happened, you know how dangerous it is. You just can't!”

Terra shook his head, clearly torn. "But what if something happens to you, Aqua? We can’t just lose you like we almost did before." He stepped closer, the weight of his words pressing down on the room. "You’ve already been through so much. I don’t think I can just sit back and let you go back to that place."

“With all due respect, Master Aqua,” Riku addressed her, his voice steady but laced with concern, “I have to agree with Terra and Mickey. The dark realm isn’t something to rush into, especially not alone. We’ve seen what it can do to someone. It’s way too dangerous to go back down there.”

Aqua’s gaze didn’t waver. Her voice was calm, but the conviction behind it was unshakable. “I know the risks better than anyone. But I also know the paths, the currents, the way the darkness moves. If Sora is trapped there, then I’m the only one with the experience to reach him. I can’t turn away from that.”

Kairi’s brow furrowed as she thought over their words. “Maybe you’re right. The Realm of Darkness is… dangerous. But what if Aqua’s right? What if Sora did end up there?”

"You too, Kairi?" Riku gasped.

Aqua, her gaze steady but full of uncertainty, nodded slowly. “I understand that you’re all worried. But I still think going back down there could be the key to finding him. It’s a potential world where people end up when they lose their hearts, and it’s possible that the Realm of Darkness could be where he’s ended up.” Her voice softened, as though unsure even as she spoke.

She drew in a quiet breath, her eyes flicking between each of them. “Please… trust me. I wouldn’t take this risk if I didn’t believe it was the only way forward.”

Riku sighed in defeat, her logic wasn’t completely wrong. “I guess it’s a good point,” he said. “That’s where my replica’s heart wandered once before. So, it’s not outside the realm of possibility that Sora could’ve ended up there too.”

Kairi turned to Aqua, her eyes filled with concern and a tinge of hope. “But... do you really believe Sora’s down there? Are you sure?”

Aqua hesitated for a moment, her expression softening as she met Kairi’s gaze. “I can’t say for certain, Kairi. I wish I could. But something in my gut tells me it’s worth looking into. If there's even a chance that he’s there, I have to try.” She paused, her resolve slowly hardening. “I know the risks, but I can’t just sit here while there's a chance Sora is out there, needing help.”

The Keyblade Master stood tall, her eyes firm with determination. "This is my decision. I’m going back to the Realm of Darkness. I’ll find Sora, or I’ll find answers. Either way, I can’t wait any longer." Her voice left no room for doubt—this was something she had to do, no matter the cost.

Riku stepped back, torn between his protective instincts and the necessity of finding Sora. His voice was heavy with resolve. "It seems like your minds really made him," he remarked. “If you think there’s even a chance, Aqua… then we can’t stop you.”

Aqua met his gaze, her hands curled into fists at her sides. “I can do this. I’ve been to the depths of darkness before—I know the way better than anyone.”

“That’s exactly what worries me!” Mickey’s voice rang sharp. “It's not safe! Last time you barely made it back, Aqua. We can’t risk losin’ you again!”

The silence that followed was tense, broken only by the hum of distant magic in the air. Aqua’s eyes softened at Mickey’s plea, but her stance didn’t falter.

Riku knelt down, resting a hand gently on Mickey’s shoulder. “I know you’re worried. I am too.” His tone lowered, steady but insistent. “But we have to trust her. We can’t keep fighting to protect everyone and keep holding her back at the same time. If anyone can do this—it’s Aqua.”

Mickey blinked up at him, torn. His fist clenched. “But… what if somethin’ happens?”

Riku offered a faint smile, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Then we’ll be right here when she comes back. Together.”

Terra walked over, his expression serious, the weight of his words clear. “No. I can’t let you go.”

Aqua opened her mouth, her determination unwavering. “Terra, I have to—”

But Terra shook his head, stepping closer, his voice firm but gentle. “No—I mean without me. The Realm of Darkness is too dangerous for anyone alone. If you’re going… then I’m going too.”

Aqua’s breath caught, her protest dying on her lips. The fire in her eyes dimmed into something softer, torn between her resolve and the relief of knowing she wouldn’t face that darkness by herself.

Ventus, who had been silent until now, looked between them, his usual optimism breaking through the tension. “If you’re going, then I’m definitely coming along too,” he declared with a determined grin. “The three of us together—there’s no way the Realm of Darkness will be as bad if we stick together.”

Aqua glanced at both of them, her heart warmed by their support but also filled with a sense of responsibility. “Tera, Ven...”

“We’re in this together, Aqua,” Terra said, his voice steady. “We’ve been separated long enough. We're a team, remember? Always will be."

Aqua sighed softly, but a small smile tugged at her lips. "Alright. If you two are really set on this, then I won’t stop you. We’ll go together—but we have to be careful. The Realm of Darkness is unpredictable."

Mickey stood off to the side, his brow furrowed in concern. “I… I’m not sure about this,” he said, his voice tinged with unease. “Where you’re headed… it’s dangerous. It’s not something to take lightly. I know you’ve all made up your minds, but… please, be careful.”

Ventus grinned. “No need to worry about anything! It should be no sweat for Master Eraqus’s three best students,” he said, giving Terra and Aqua a playful nudge. “We’ve got this. Together, we’ve faced worse, and this time won’t be any different.” He gave Mickey a confident smile. “We’ll make it through, and we’ll bring Sora back.”

Lea couldn’t help himself. He cut into the conversation with a raised hand, though he looked somewhat apologetic. "I hate to cut the mood short, but I've been thinking about this too," he said, crossing his arms. "Dividing and conquering... it's not a bad idea."

Riku blinked, a little surprised. "You’ve been thinking about that too?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.

Lea nodded with a smirk. "Yeah, well, I may not be the most serious guy around, but I know how important this is. If you’re gonna head in one direction, then I think it’s best we all split up and cover more ground."

Mickey's expression shifted as he realized what Lea and the others were implying. "Does that mean you won’t be going to Radiant Garden either?" he asked.

"That's right," Isa said, his tone as calm as normal. "During the ride over here, we started talking about our own ways to find out where Sora is. We’ve come up with a plan, one I think might hold merit."

"A plan?" Kairi asked, "What is it?"

Pence spoke up with an air of pride. "We still have access to Ansem’s computer in Twilight Town’s mansion," he said, a spark of enthusiasm in his eyes. "I did some poking around in the computer and realized that it can analyze a person’s heart. I’m betting that Ansem used that same programming on Roxas before as well."

Riku’s expression shifted, his eyes narrowing slightly in thought. “That makes sense. That same computer was used to create the data version of Twilight Town… the one Roxas was kept inside. If Ansem’s system could build an entire world out of data, it could definitely break down the structure of a heart.”

“What did you guys have in mind?” he asked.

“We’re gonna run a scan on Roxas and Xion’s hearts and see if it’ll give us a clue on where Sora went!” Pence explained, his eyes practically glowing with excitement. “I mean, the computer’s been gathering dust for a while, but now we finally get to put it to good use! Who knows what kind of data we can dig up? It’s gonna be awesome!”

"Oh, so that’s what this is about," Olette said playfully. "You’re just looking for another excuse to do some sleuthing, aren’t you? Even though we finished our summer homework ages ago."

"C'mon, Pence," Hayner groaned. "This isn't about playing detective...we're supposed to be finding Sora."

Roxas crossed his arms. "Well, if you’re using the computer in Twilight Town, it’s probably our best shot," he said. "It can dig deeper than any of us can. If Sora’s out there, it might just find a trace of him."

Xion nodded in agreement, her voice quiet but steady. "It’s a good idea. Maybe it'll help us find Sora." She glanced at Pence with a hint of a smile.

"Just don't get too carried away with the tech stuff, okay?" Roxas sassed towards Pence.

Mickey let out a heavy sigh, realizing everything had finally been decided. His ears drooped slightly, but his tone carried warmth. “Then I wish ya all the best of luck. I know you’ll give it everything you’ve got.”

From his throne, Yen Sid slowly rose, his presence commanding as his gaze swept over the gathered heroes. His voice rumbled with authority, steady and deliberate. “Aqua, you will take Ventus and Terra into the depths. The denizens from Twilight Town will make use of Ansem’s computer to uncover any trace of Sora. The rest of you will travel to Radiant Garden and seek counsel with Ansem the Wise.”

The chamber fell quiet, each group knowing their path had been set.

All of them straightened their posture, standing upright before the great sorcerer. In unison, they raised their hands in salute, the gesture crisp with respect and resolve.

Yen Sid’s gaze lingered on each of them in turn. Though his tone remained solemn, there was a quiet warmth beneath the weight of his words. “May fortune favor you in these ventures. The road ahead will not be easy, but I trust in the strength you all carry within your hearts.”

Riku nodded, his face serious. "Looks like we’ve all got our work cut out for us."

As the group began to make their plans, Kairi stood off to the side, her thoughts drifting inward. Her heart ached as she thought of him. He had always been the one to push forward, no matter how dark things got. The way he’d risked his life to save his friends, his determination to never give up, even when the odds were stacked against him—Sora was strong in ways she couldn’t quite put into words.

But now...now she couldn’t even feel his presence. The thought of him, out there somewhere, lost in the unknown, gnawed at her heart. She didn’t know how they were going to find him. The uncertainty made her feel helpless.

But one thing was certain—she wasn’t going to give up. Not on him.

“I’ll find you, Sora,” Kairi whispered to herself, her voice soft but resolute. “I promise.”

As the words left her lips, a faint shimmer of light flickered in her palm. She hadn’t called for it—hadn’t even realized she was doing it—but her Keyblade materialized all the same, warm and steady in her grasp. Destiny’s Embrace pulsed gently, as if echoing her vow.

Her fingers curled around the hilt, tightening instinctively. For a fleeting heartbeat, she imagined him beside her—his confident grin, the way he always stood tall even when the odds were against him. She wasn’t sure how it was going to happen, or if they would truly be able to bring him back. But none of that mattered.

She would do whatever it took.

Because that was the kind of love Sora had always shown her. And now, it was her turn to return it.

Chapter Text

The Gummi Ship soared quietly as it glided through the vast, starry void, the space between worlds stretching endlessly in every direction. Kairi leaned against the cool window, her hands clasped in her lap, eyes distant and unfocused. The others were speaking—Mickey, Riku, and the faint hum of the ship’s controls—but it all felt muffled, as if the noise couldn’t quite reach her ears. Her mind was elsewhere, heavy with guilt.

She blamed herself.

She blamed herself multiple times.

She blamed herself even if Riku and Mickey assured her that none of that was her fault, the guilt still gnawed at her heart, the feeling that if she had done something differently, maybe Sora wouldn’t be lost. She couldn’t stop wondering what she could have done to prevent it. What if she'd been faster? Smarter? Stronger?

Kairi could feel the weight of it, pressing on her chest. She had failed him. How had she let Xemnas capture her so easily? It felt like everything she had done before—every moment of bravery, every time she had trained to protect herself—had been for nothing. If I’d just been stronger...

But even as she thought this, Kairi knew the truth was more complicated. She couldn't be completely weak—she was the Princess of Heart, after all. Yet, there were so many pieces of herself she hadn’t fully discovered. Her abilities, her potential, still felt like a mystery she was only beginning to unravel. How could she stand a chance against someone like Xemnas, when she was still figuring out what she could do? There was so much she didn’t understand about her own heart, and that uncertainty left her feeling vulnerable in the face of such overwhelming danger.

She hadn’t even realized the full scope of what she could do.

She thought back to the moment when the Demon Tide had threatened to swallow them whole. Sora’s body, weightless, surrounded by darkness, and her own frantic fear. Then, in a sudden flash, it had happened. A surge of warmth had filled her, a kind of light that wrapped around them both and kept them safe. At the time, it had been instinctive, a reflex. She hadn’t thought about it—it just happened. But now, she had questions. Why did that happen? How did I do that?

Kairi didn’t know how to call upon that power again. She didn’t even know if she could. It scared her, knowing there was something inside her that she couldn’t control, something that could save lives but was so elusive she couldn’t grasp it. Is that what Sora needs? My heart?

What if it’s me who holds the key to saving him?

Kairi couldn’t help but wonder if there was something deeper between her and Sora—something more than just the bond of friendship that had always tied them together.

A connection, perhaps, that could protect him from the darkness in ways she couldn’t yet understand. She thought of how her heart had reached out to him when he was in danger, how she had somehow kept him alive when everything seemed lost. Could it be that her heart, with its unique light, held the answers to saving him? Was it possible that their hearts were connected in a way that no one else’s could be, a bond strong enough to pull him back from the edge of despair? She didn’t know, but she was certain of one thing—she would find out, no matter the cost. Her heart, her love for him, would guide her to the truth.

As the Gummi Ship drifted through the vast emptiness of space, the hum of its engines steady in the background, Riku couldn't help but notice Kairi staring out of the window, her eyes distant, lost in thought. She had been quiet for a while now, and something in her posture told him that her mind was elsewhere.

He glanced over at her, his usual calm demeanor softening with concern. "Hey, Kairi," he called gently. "You alright?"

Kairi blinked, shaking herself from her thoughts, and offered him a small smile. "I'm fine, Riku. Just thinking."

Riku gave her a reassuring smile, though there was an unmistakable hint of worry in his voice. "Sora's strong, Kairi. You know that, right? He’s faced worse and come through it. Whatever happens, he'll find a way to make it through. He always does."

Kairi’s smile widened a little, but she couldn’t resist teasing him, her voice playful. "Wow, look at you, Mr. Optimistic now. I’m really starting to enjoy this 'new-Riku.' You sound just like Sora."

Riku chuckled, rubbing the back of his head, a little embarrassed. "Guess I’m just trying to be a little more...positive these days. For all our sakes."

At that, Donald and Goofy, who had been tinkering with some of the controls in the back, turned their heads and joined in the conversation. Donald puffed out his chest a little, his tone serious despite the playful gleam in his eyes. "You know, Kairi, it’s really important that you stay happy right now! The ship runs on smiles! We need all the good vibes we can get to keep flying smoothly."

Goofy, nodding earnestly. "Yep, smiles are the fuel, Kairi! So if you’re feelin' down, we might hit a bump in the road, ya know?"

Kairi laughed, the lightheartedness of their words lifting her spirits just a little. "Alright, alright, I’ll do my best to keep the smiles coming. Wouldn’t want to crash this ship, would we?"

Her smile, though still tinged with worry, was brighter now. Riku watched her for a moment, his expression softening as he felt the warmth of her determination.

The Gummi Ship rumbled softly as it slowed, entering the familiar space near Radiant Garden. Mickey's voice filled with excitement. "Alright, everyone! We’ve made it to Radiant Garden!"

The moment the words left his mouth, Donald and Goofy were already racing to the front of the cockpit, eyes wide with excitement. Donald waved his arms in the air, his usual gruff tone tinged with rare enthusiasm. "Radiant Garden! I can't believe we're back!"

Goofy grinned from ear to ear, bouncing on his feet. "Gawrsh, it's been a while, huh? I can't wait to see the Leon and the gang again! This place sure brings back memories!"

Kairi peaked out the window to get a good look of the world. The castle towered above the village, a masterpiece of pink and gold, with spires reaching for the endless blue sky and its clock face gleaming like a beacon of timeless wonder. Wing-like structures adorned with metallic stars extended from its sides, hinting at a fusion of magic and forgotten technology, while lush greenery framed the grand staircase leading to its opulent doors. Below, the bustling town hummed with life, yet all eyes were drawn upward to the castle—a place where the extraordinary felt within reach, and the promise of adventure lingered in the air.

It was a beautiful city, that much was a given.

But there was something else about this world that lingered in Kairi’s heart. It was where they had rescued her, yes, but it was also where they had brought Naminé back—where Sora had returned her heart.

Kairi swallowed hard, the thought of Sora still fresh, still painful. She had made a promise to herself to find him, to save him, but even now, in the quiet moments, the worry gnawed at her.

As the Gummi Ship started its descent into Radiant Garden, Kairi couldn’t help but feel uneasy. This world had so much history, so many memories tied to it, but she couldn’t shake the feeling that things wouldn’t be so simple this time. It was a place where they had made connections before, but now, it felt like everything was on the line. She tried to hold on to the hope that they could find something—anything.

The ship touches down gently in Radiant Garden’s Central Square, the familiar hum of the engines fading as the ship landed smoothly on the stone pavement. The group stepped out, their boots making a soft echo against the cobblestones.

Donald and Goofy immediately began looking around, taking in the changes that had taken place since their last visit. The town, once ravaged and in ruins, now seemed to sparkle with life and renewed energy. Donald adjusted his hat, squinting as he took it all in. "Wow, look at this place! It’s like a whole new world!" he exclaimed.

Goofy nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah, the Hollow Bastion Restoration Committee sure did a bang-up job! This place looks amazing."

Kairi couldn’t help but smile at the sight. It felt like a symbol of hope—a place that had been rebuilt after so much destruction. Goofy’s words echoed her thoughts. “It’s beautiful," she agreed quietly.

Mickey stood beside them, a soft smile on his face as he looked over the familiar streets. “It sure is,” he said. “You know, a long time ago, Radiant Garden was called the city of light. It’s a name that really fits, don’t you think?” He gazed out over the town, the sunlight casting long, golden shadows across the stone streets.

“City of light, huh?” Riku mused, glancing around. He could see it—the radiance of the world, the way it seemed to glow from within despite everything that had happened here. "It feels like it’s lived up to that name."

Kairi strangely felt out of place in this world. This was supposed to be her homeworld—the place where she was born, the place she had come from—but she couldn’t shake the feeling that it wasn’t quite hers.

Despite everything she’d learned about Radiant Garden, about its history, about her own past, Kairi found herself struggling to remember much about her life here. She thought back to the brief moments when she’d visited: the time Maleficent had kidnapped her, or the time she had come here with Sora to release Namine’s heart into the replica. Those were the only vivid memories that stood out, but everything before that felt... empty. She couldn’t recall anything from her childhood, not even the faintest image of what her life had been like before everything had changed.

In fact, the only thing she could clearly remember from those hazy days was a story her grandmother had told her, back in the castle library. She had always found the tales enchanting—stories of Radiant Garden's glory, of its people, and its legacy—but they felt distant, like they belonged to someone else’s life. Her grandmother’s voice, her presence, was the only thing that felt real from those years. But even that memory felt like it was fading, like sand slipping through her fingers.

Kairi glanced around again, her eyes tracing the stone buildings and the wide open spaces. Radiant Garden felt so familiar—she could almost hear the echoes of laughter, the rustle of the wind against the trees, the quiet hum of the city’s life—but at the same time, it felt like a stranger. There was something distant about it, as if she were a visitor in a place that was once hers.

It was strange. The world felt old to her, but in a way that made her feel like she didn't belong. She wondered if maybe, in some way, the memories she’d lost were connected to this place. Was this where she had been when she was little? She could never remember meeting Master Aqua, despite hearing that they had crossed paths years before. That alone was enough to make her question everything she thought she knew about herself.

As much as Radiant Garden had once been home, Kairi knew that most of her memories of this world were tainted. They were filled with darkness, with the pain of being kidnapped, the fear of losing her friends, the confusion of being pulled into so many battles. She realized, as she stood there, that the islands were the place where she felt happier.

Kairi shook off the lingering thoughts and refocused. Looking around at the group, she asked, "So, what’s our first priority? Where do we start?"

Mickey, who had been silently taking in the scenery, turned to her with a serious but determined look. "We need to head to Ansem the Wise’s castle," he said, his voice steady. "He’s the one who can give us the best insight into what’s been happening. He’s always had the knowledge we need—if anyone knows something about what happened to Sora, it's him."

Donald and Goofy nodded in agreement, both looking eager to get moving. "Yeah! The sooner we talk to him, the sooner we can get some answers!" Donald said, puffing out his chest.

Goofy adjusted his hat and gave a friendly grin. "And who knows, maybe we'll even get to see some old friends while we’re there!"

The quiet of Radiant Garden's Central Square shattered as a sudden, unmistakable ripple tore through the air. Without warning, a swarm of Shadow Heartless materialized in front of them, emerging straight out of the ground, their dark shapes writhing and flickering with eerie life.

Riku’s eyes widened in disbelief. “What the—? Heartless?! Here? Of all places...?” His voice dropped to a whisper, as if the very sight of them sent a chill down his spine.

Kairi’s heart clenched. "I thought they were gone... after Xehanort was defeated...why are they here now?" She took a step forward, her hand instinctively summoning her Destiny's Embrace Keyblade.

Mickey's brow furrowed, a mixture of concern and confusion crossing his face. "I’m not sure," he said, shaking his head. "But no matter why they’re here, we can’t let them cause any trouble." His voice hardened with determination, the gravity of the situation sinking in.

Before they could move, more Heartless emerged from the shadows, slithering across the pavement like a tide of darkness. The air felt thick with their presence, as if the very world was holding its breath.

The new arrivals weren’t just the usual Shadows—these ones were surrounded by a strange, glowing energy, a digital projection of crackling lines that buzzed with a mechanical hum. The energy seemed to distort around them, pulsing with dark intent.

“What the—?” Kairi murmured, eyes narrowing. “What’s going on with them? What’s that... energy around them?”

Goofy looked closely, his expression grim. “That’s not normal. I’ve seen something like that before...”

Riku glanced at Goofy, disbelief crossing his face. “What are you talking about?”

“That’s ‘Claymore,’” Goofy said quickly, pointing to the projection that surrounded the Heartless. "It's a defensive doohickey our pal Cid made for the town a while back. He made it to keep the Heartless from getting too close to the city."

The quiet of Radiant Garden's Central Square shattered as a sudden, unmistakable ripple tore through the air. Without warning, a swarm of Shadow Heartless materialized in front of them, their dark shapes writhing and flickering with eerie life.

Riku’s eyes widened in disbelief. “What the—? Here? Of all places...?” His voice dropped to a whisper, as if the very sight of them sent a chill down his spine.

Kairi’s heart clenched. "I thought they were gone... after Xehanort was defeated... Why are they here now?" She took a step forward, her hand instinctively reaching for her Keyblade.

Mickey's brow furrowed, a mixture of concern and confusion crossing his face. "I’m not sure," he said, shaking his head. "But no matter why they’re here, we can’t let them cause any trouble." His voice hardened with determination, the gravity of the situation sinking in.

Before they could move, more Heartless emerged from the shadows, slithering across the pavement like a tide of darkness. The air felt thick with their presence, as if the very world was holding its breath.

The new arrivals weren’t just the usual Shadows—these ones were surrounded by a strange, glowing energy, a digital projection of crackling lines that buzzed with a mechanical hum. The energy seemed to distort around them, pulsing with dark intent.

“What the—?” Kairi murmured, eyes narrowing. “What’s going on with them? What’s that... energy around them?”

Goofy looked closely, his expression grim. “That’s not normal. I’ve seen something like that before...”

Riku glanced at Goofy, disbelief crossing his face. “What are you talking about?”

“That’s ‘Claymore,’” Goofy said quickly, pointing to the projection that surrounded the Heartless. "It's a defensive doohickey Cid made for the town a while back. Designed to keep the Heartless from getting too close to the city."

Kairi's pulse quickened as more of the Heartless appeared, their forms flickering and shifting in the strange digital glow. "Yeah, but what are Heartless doing here in the first place...? Does that mean the world aren't in peace?"

"Doesn't matter," Riku growled, drawing his Braveheart Keyblade, his voice cutting through the tension. "Whatever it is, we're taking them out."

"Stay sharp, everyone!" Riku called out, his voice steady despite the rising chaos. He raised his Keyblade with precision, his eyes scanning the approaching swarm. "We can handle this."

Beside him, Kairi drew her own Keyblade, its familiar weight grounding her. Despite the dark creatures advancing on them, she knew she had a job to do. No time for hesitation.

Mickey stood at the front, his eyes gleaming with resolve. With a flip of his wrist, his own Keyblade—the Star Cluster—shimmered in the light. "Let’s go!" he called, his voice full of fiery determination.

"Fire!" Donald’s voice cut through the noise as he thrust his staff forward, sending a burst of flames hurtling toward the oncoming Shadows. The flames roared through the air, igniting several of the Heartless as they caught fire, disintegrating them into the ether.

Goofy swung his shield with practiced ease. "Yoo-hoo! Over here, fellas!" He knocked back several Shadows with a powerful spin, sending them crashing into their comrades. "Don’t let ‘em get too close!"

The Shadows, their glowing eyes filled with malice, charged forward, their clawed hands reaching for their targets. The ground beneath their feet seemed to ripple as more of them emerged from the cracks in the stone.

"Incoming!" Riku shouted, just as a handful of Shadows shot from the ground, aiming for Kairi.

"Watch out!" Mickey called out, flipping into the air with incredible agility. He twirled his Keyblade in a dazzling arc, slashing through the first group of Shadows in a flurry of motion. He landed lightly on his feet, eyes already on the next wave.

Kairi gritted her teeth, focusing. "I’ve got this," she muttered, swinging her Keyblade in a wide arc. It wasn’t as fast as Mickey’s flashy acrobatics, but it was no less effective. The first Shadow she struck shattered with a burst of dark energy, the second falling as her Keyblade collided with its form.

But more were coming, their numbers growing in the blink of an eye.

The ground erupted again as a wave of Shadows shot out to meet them. Riku was already moving, his Keyblade flashing in the light as he slashed horizontally, cutting down the first wave with ruthless precision. "Stay focused!" he called, dodging a few swipes from the next set of Shadows as he expertly parried their attacks.

Kairi took a step forward, her eyes narrowing. She swung again, this time with more intent, cleaving through a group of Shadows that had surrounded her. The Heartless screeched as they were dispelled into nothingness.

Donald grinned. "Good job, Kairi!" He quickly flicked his staff, casting a powerful Blizzard next. A wave of freezing cold swept over the remaining Heartless, freezing them in place. "Now’s our chance!"

Goofy took advantage of the frozen Shadows, slamming his shield into the cold statues, sending them shattering into pieces. "Ha! Cold as ice!" he cheered. "Great job, Donald!"

Riku and Mickey continued to lead the charge, cutting through the remaining Shadows with swift and powerful blows. Mickey twirled in mid-air, performing an intricate combo that sent several Heartless scattering to the ground. "Gotcha!" he said, landing lightly on his feet.

More emerged from the cracks in the ground, rising from the very stone. Kairi, feeling the weight of the battle pushing in on her, focused on the heart of the swarm. With a deep breath, she swung her Keyblade in an elegant arc, slamming it down on another Shadow, sending it flying.

"Don’t let up, Kairi!" Riku shouted as he knocked back another Shadow with a well-placed thrust of his Keyblade.

She nodded, her eyes steady. “We’re not done yet.”

The air crackled with the sound of magic and steel. Donald sent another Fire spell racing into the crowd, the blast sending Shadows flying in all directions. Goofy dove in, his shield held high, blocking a barrage of swipes and knocking the Heartless back with a forceful blow. “This is a big one, huh?”

"We’re handling it," Mickey said, smiling despite the intensity of the fight. He delivered a powerful strike to a group of Shadows, knocking them to the side. "Just keep pushing through!"

Riku, now surrounded by three Shadows, spun on his heel and dispatched them all with a quick flurry of strikes, his movements clean and deliberate. "They don’t stop, but neither do we," he said, breath steady. "Stay on your toes!"

Kairi could feel the rhythm of the fight now, her movements flowing in sync with her friends. She blocked a swipe from a Shadow before countering with a sharp strike that broke its form apart. Her heart raced, not from fear, but from the adrenaline of standing beside people she trusted—people who had always fought for what was right.

They all moved together like a well-oiled machine, coordinating every attack, covering each other’s blind spots, and breaking through the relentless swarm of darkness. With a final blast from Donald’s Thunder, the last of the Shadows were obliterated, leaving only silence in their wake.

The remaining of the Shadows had been driven back, but Kairi could still feel the pulse of the battle in her veins. Her heart raced as she watched the remaining Heartless begin to dissipate into dark mist, vanishing into nothingness, one by one.

Donald lowered his staff, breathing heavily. "Whew... I think that's the last of 'em," he said, wiping sweat from his brow. "That was too close."

Goofy stood tall, his shield resting on his shoulder. "Gawrsh, I thought we were gonna be overrun there for a second, but we pulled through!" He grinned, but there was still a trace of tension in his voice. "That sure was a lotta Heartless."

"Aw, why are they still here?!" Donald barked, his usual temper flaring. "The Heartless were supposed to be gone! What are they doing here in Radiant Garden of all places?"

Mickey looked over at him, brow furrowed, clearly just as perplexed. "I’m not sure, Donald," he said, his voice low with uncertainty. "Riku and I didn’t see any Heartless when we came through here last time. Radiant Garden was peaceful. Almost... too peaceful." He glanced back toward Riku, who seemed just as puzzled.

Riku nodded, his eyes scanning the quiet streets with a sharp gaze. "I was about to ask the same thing. This world should have been in peace now that Xehanort was defeated. Everything's supposed to be in order. There shouldn’t be any Heartless here now—at least, not in this kind of number. It doesn’t add up."

Kairi stood beside them, looking thoughtful. She couldn’t shake the feeling that something was off. There was a nagging suspicion at the back of her mind.

"Do you think someone’s controlling them?" she wondered aloud, her voice a mix of concern and curiosity. The thought of someone pulling the strings, of another force manipulating the Heartless, made her uneasy.

Mickey tilted his head, tapping his finger against his chin as he considered it. "Maybe. But who?" he mused, his mind racing. "Could be Maleficent... or Pete."

Riku’s eyes narrowed at the mention of their old enemies. "It’s been a while since we’ve seen those two. They’ve been quiet for too long."

"Yeah, last time we saw Maleficent and Pete was in Olympus, wasn’t it?" Goofy said, hegave a puzzled look to the others, as if trying to piece together the timeline. "We haven’t seen hide nor hair of 'em since. Wonder where they went off to."

"Pete and Maleficent were looking for that stupid Black Box," Donald grumbled. "Bet they probably gave up on it by now. It didn’t even seem all that important anyway." He kicked at the stone pavement, still clearly upset by the memory of their constant meddling.

"We need to figure out what’s going on," Mickey said, determination returning to his voice. "If Maleficent and Pete are involved, we need to be ready for whatever they’re planning. And if this is something else... we need to stop it before it gets worse."

Riku clenched his fists at his sides. "Agreed. We need answers." He glanced at Kairi, giving her a reassuring look. "Stay sharp. We can’t afford to let our guard down—not now."

Kairi nodded, her resolve solidifying.

"Look out!" Donald squawked, his voice sharp with urgency. He pointed frantically as another Shadow Heartless leapt into the air, its claws outstretched and aimed at Goofy, who was still a step behind in the heat of the battle.

But before Goofy could react, something flashed through the air—there was a blur of motion, and the Heartless was swiped cleanly out of the sky with a single, precise slash. It disintegrated into dark particles, its heart floating up toward the heavens, vanishing with a soft wisp.

The figure who had struck was a man, his dark hair tousled but striking, a scar running across his face that only added to the dangerous aura about him. He wore a long, dark coat that billowed slightly in the wind, and at his side was a sword—its blade sleek, but its hilt transformed in such a way that it could also be used as a gun. A weapon both strange and deadly.

Just behind him, a black-haired girl in a ninja-themed outfit dropped from the shadows, her movements fluid and silent like a whisper in the dark. Her eyes scanned the area, sharp and calculating, as she joined the man’s side.

As the last of the Shadow Heartless disintegrated into the ether, Kairi stood, breathing heavily, still processing the unexpected interruption. Donald, Goofy, and Mickey were regrouping when the woman in ninja garb and the man with the gun-sword approached them.

Yuffie’s sharp eyes scanned the battlefield, noticing the fading shadows. She smirked. "Well, those two are really slipping if they're letting these measly Heartless get the better of them," she said, almost in amusement.

The man—Leon, as Kairi remembered—chuckled dryly, but there was a seriousness to his gaze as he looked at the others. “We’re not the only ones around here. Everyone's been keeping their guard up.”

Kairi shifted her attention back to the two newcomers, feeling a sense of unease mixed with familiarity. The ninja—Yuffie, she recognized from their past adventures—had always been full of energy, and it seemed nothing had changed. Her expression softened, her gaze moving toward Kairi.

"Yuffie! Leon!" the court wizard and royal knight happily greeted.

"Well, well, well! If it isn’t Donald Duck and Goofy!" Yuffie exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with playful energy. "Man, it’s been way too long!"

Donald, who had been grumbling about the fight, blinked and then broke into a smile of his own. "Yuffie!" He greeted. "It’s good to see you again!"

Goofy chuckled and stepped forward, arms wide. "Golly, Yuffie! It’s been forever, huh? How’ve you been?"

Yuffie’s eyes sparkled as she threw her arms around both of them in an affectionate hug. "I’ve been good, you know—keeping busy, getting into trouble, all that fun stuff. I see you two are still keeping the world safe with the big guy!" She playfully jabbed Goofy in the side, and then turned back to Donald. "Still causing a ruckus with that temper of yours, huh, Donald?"

Donald huffed, crossing his arms with a grumble. "I do not have a temper!" He paused, glancing at Goofy and Yuffie’s amused faces, then sighed.

Goofy chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Well, it’s good to see y’all still doin' okay. We’ve missed ya!"

Yuffie pulled back, beaming at the pair before turning to King Mickey, who had been watching the exchange with a fond smile. She beamed at him, waving her hand. "And King Mickey!" she called out. "Man, it feels like forever since I last saw you! How’ve you been?"

Mickey gave a warm chuckle, his ears twitching with delight. "About the same here as well. But it’s good to see you, Yuffie. It’s been a long time." He gave her a thumbs-up, his voice calm but friendly. "How’ve things been in Radiant Garden?"

Yuffie shrugged, her expression becoming more serious. "You know, things have been... quiet. But that doesn’t mean we’ve been sitting around twiddling our thumbs." She cast a quick glance at Leon, who gave her a nod of agreement.

Leon stepped forward, his expression softening as he looked at Donald, Goofy, and Mickey. He gave them a nod of recognition. "It’s good to see you all again," Leon said, his tone warm but with a hint of seriousness. "It’s been a while since we’ve all been together, huh?"

Donald’s face softened as he smiled up at Leon. "Yeah, too long, Leon. But we’re glad to see you’re alright."

Goofy nodded, his expression a little more somber. "I gotta say, it’s good to see you all again. We’ve been through a lot together, huh?"

Yuffie looked between Leon and the group, her smile faltering for just a second. "Yeah... we’ve all had our fair share of tough times. But that’s why it’s nice to see familiar faces."

"It's good to see you guys again," Kairi smiled. This seemed like her first genuine moment of happiness in a while.

Yuffie blinked, nearly frozen in her tracks. "Whoa… is that really you, Kairi?" She took a few steps closer, eyes widening as she looked the other girl up and down. "You’ve really grown up! Last time I saw you, you were just a kid."

Kairi smiled faintly, feeling a warm but bittersweet sense of nostalgia. "Yeah, a lot has happened since then," she said, voice soft but determined. "I've been doing my part to help my friends. I can’t just sit by anymore." Her grip on the Keyblade tightened, a subtle but resolute gesture.

Leon nodded, his arms crossed. "You seem stronger too," he added, a bit surprised by the confidence in Kairi’s stance. "I didn’t know you could wield the Keyblade as well. That's... impressive."

Kairi looked up at him, her smile softening. "There’s still so much I don’t understand about it, but I’ve learned a lot along the way. And right now, I’m just trying to do what I can."

"Guess we’ll have to keep an eye on you then, huh?" Yuffie grinned, clearly impressed by Kairi’s growth.

Then, Yuffie’s attention darted to Riku, standing slightly apart from the group, his arms crossed as he watched the conversation unfold. She tilted her head, her brow furrowing in curiosity. "Wait a minute… Who’s this?" Yuffie asked, her eyes scanning him up and down. "I don’t recognize you at all. Are you new to the crew?"

Riku blinked in surprise. "Uh, not exactly," he replied with a small chuckle, his smile a bit uneasy at the sudden attention. "I’m Riku."

Leon watched the exchange with a knowing smirk. "Should’ve figured," he muttered under his breath.

Yuffie’s eyes widened as the realization hit her. "Wait a second… You’re him! You’re the famous Riku!" she exclaimed, taking a few steps back in surprise. "Sora kept talking about you all the time!"

Riku’s eyes widened, his face flushing slightly, both surprised and touched by the mention of Sora’s name. "He… really talked about me?" Riku’s voice was almost a whisper, and for a moment, he felt a strange mix of emotions—relief, pride, and a little embarrassment all at once.

Yuffie gave a knowing nod, her smile almost teasing. "Oh yeah, big time! He’d go on and on about you, how strong you were, how much he admired you. He’d always say that you were gonna come through for him, no matter what."

Riku stood still for a moment, his heart pounding at the thought of Sora's unwavering faith in him. He had always tried to be there for Sora, but hearing this now—it felt like a weight lifting off his chest. He couldn't help but smile slightly, though it was mixed with a tinge of melancholy. "I never realized he thought of me like that," Riku muttered, almost to himself, but loud enough for Yuffie to hear.

"Guess you’re not so bad after all," Yuffie teased, nudging him playfully with her elbow.

Leon’s expression shifted slightly, the casual air of the reunion faltering for a moment as he turned to the group with a more serious look. His brow furrowed slightly as he spoke. “Speaking of which, there’s something I’ve been meaning to ask...where exactly is Sora?” Leon’s voice was calm, but there was an underlying tension, as though he already suspected the answer.

Yuffie, standing beside him, seemed puzzled at first, her eyes scanning the group, before her expression softened into a sympathetic one. “Yeah, I mean... when I saw the Gummi ship flying in the distance, I honestly thought I’d see Sora piloting it. That’s usually his thing, right?”

Donald and Goofy shared a glance, and their faces dropped at the same time. The warmth and energy that had filled their faces just moments before faded, leaving behind a heaviness neither of them could hide.

“Don’t…” Donald began, but his voice trailed off, and he clenched his fists, his feathers ruffling slightly as if trying to push down the emotions.

Goofy sighed deeply beside him. "Gawrsh... we don’t really know, Yuffie," he said quietly. "Sora’s gone... disappeared. We’re still trying to figure out where he is, what happened to him."

Riku, standing beside Kairi, suddenly looked like he wished he could just disappear. His eyes dropped to the ground as his hands instinctively curled into fists. It was clear he didn’t want to say it either. His mind seemed to be replaying a thousand thoughts, all of them heavy and filled with guilt.

Kairi, however, stepped forward, her voice breaking through the silence with a quiet, yet firm resolve. Her heart was heavy, but she knew it needed to be said. "Sora’s disappeared," she said, her voice steady but the weight of the truth pressing on her chest. "He sacrificed himself... and we’re hoping to find him, bring him back. We’ve been looking everywhere, but... it’s like he's just vanished."

Yuffie’s eyes widened in shock, her hand instinctively moving to her mouth as if to stop herself from saying the wrong thing. “Wait... Sora? Sacrificed himself? But... how? Why?”

“You said... he disappeared. After he sacrificed himself? Was he...?” Leon began to ask.

“We can explain everything as we walk,” Mickey said, glancing back at Leon and Yuffie. “But right now, we’re headed straight for Ansem the Wise's castle. We need to meet with him, see what he knows. There’s no time to waste.”

Leon nodded, his expression still thoughtful, as if absorbing everything that had already been said. Yuffie, walking beside him, kept her eyes on the ground as they moved, the weight of the conversation slowly sinking in.

As they walked through the streets of Radiant Garden, Mickey began explaining everything, starting with the Keyblade War. His tone was grim as he recounted the epic battle that had once threatened to tear the worlds apart. While walking up to the castle gates, he explained everything that happened over the last few days. Bringing them up to speed about the real Master Xehanort, the χ-blade, the recent Keyblade War that just happened, Xehanort taking Kairi's life, and Sora's eventual sacrifice in order to rescue her. It hurt having to hear the story being told again, but Kairi realized that it was beneficial since Leon and the others had been out of the loop since Xemnas's first defeat.

Leon, who had been walking quietly beside them, seemed to finally process everything. His gaze softened as he spoke. “So, that’s it. Sora kept using the Power of Waking until it broke him. And now, you’re all trying to bring him back.”

“That’s right,” Mickey said, nodding solemnly. “But we’ve hit a wall. We don’t know where Sora is. He’s lost somewhere out there, and we have no idea where he is."

Yuffie let out a soft breath, trying to lighten the mood, but her words were serious. “Man, you guys have been through a lot. But if anyone can bring him back, it’s you. You’ve got the strength to see this through. We’ll help in any way we can.”

"When Maleficent and Ansem attacked Radiant Garden back when I was a kid, I never would've guessed that Ansem—" Leon stopped himself, his brows furrowing for a moment before he quickly corrected, "I mean, Xehanort—was actually an old Keyblade Master. That changes everything."

Mickey, walking a little ahead, glanced back over his shoulder with a sigh, his expression grim. “It’s a whole lot more complicated than any of us could’ve ever imagined. And it’s all tied up in Sora’s heart and the Power of Waking.”

The small group grew quieter, the weight of the journey ahead settling over them. Leon thought for a moment, his gaze distant. "So," he said after a brief pause, "Do you have any leads on how to find Sora? After everything that's happened, you must have something to go on."

Mickey shook his head slowly, his voice heavy with regret. "We don't. We've tried everything we can think of. We don't really understand the full scope of the Power of Waking... we only know it has the ability to wake sleeping hearts, but beyond that... we’re still trying to piece it together."

"Do you really think Ansem the Wise would know anything about the Power of Waking?" Leon asked, his voice tinged with doubt. "He's not a Keyblade wielder like the rest of you."

Riku glanced at Leon, his expression calm but thoughtful. “That’s true. Ansem may not wield a Keyblade, but he’s the one who created the data that brought some of our friends back in the first place. His research into the nature of hearts—particularly the data on Sora and the others—might hold some kind of clue. If anyone knows how to manipulate or wake hearts, it’s likely him.” Riku looked toward the castle, his mind already turning. “Even if he doesn’t have all the answers, maybe he can help us understand more about what’s going on with Sora.”

Mickey nodded in agreement, but there was a trace of uncertainty in his eyes. "We’ve got no choice but to try."

As they entered the grand gates of the castle, the cold, imposing walls seemed to echo with years of history. The group followed the winding path through the lush courtyard, the familiar sight of Radiant Garden’s skyline behind them, until they arrived at the towering entrance.

They were greeted by the familiar figures of Dilan and Aeleus, standing stoically by the castle’s stone archway. Both were dressed in their usual attire, their faces serious, but a flicker of recognition and respect passed between them as they noticed Mickey and his companions.

Kairi had never met these two in her life, but she felt a twinge of familiarity at the sight of them. A faint memory of skipping up the stairs, holding her grandmother's hand and being greeted by these two men.

"Well, if it isn’t the King and his friends," Dilan greeted, his voice deep and steady, though there was a warmth in his tone as he stepped forward. He nodded toward Riku, Kairi, and Leon. "It’s been some time."

Aeleus gave a nod of his own, offering a small but genuine smile. “It’s good to see you all again. The castle’s been quiet since the last time you were here.” He turned toward Mickey. "We’ve been expecting you. Ansem has been in his study, but he’ll want to speak with you immediately. Please, follow us."

"Thanks, guys," Mickey said gratefully, his usual cheerfulness not quite masking the heaviness in his voice. "We could really use his help right now."

The two former members of the Organization led the group through the castle’s vast halls, the sound of their footsteps echoing in the ancient stone. They passed portraits of Ansem the Wise, older and wiser versions of the man they sought. Dilan and Aeleus didn’t say much as they walked, but there was an air of quiet solidarity, as if they understood the importance of what was coming.

"Ansem’s study is just up ahead," Aeleus said after a moment, breaking the tension. "He’s been waiting for you. You’ll find him in there."

As they stepped inside, the group’s eyes immediately landed on Ansem himself. Seated behind a grand desk, the older man was absorbed in the pages of a heavy, leather-bound tome—the Book of Retribution, one of his most prized and well-worn books. His sharp eyes skimmed over the words, taking in the knowledge that had guided his path for many years.

Dilan and Aeleus entered before the group, bowing slightly as they addressed their master.

"Master Ansem, we have visitors," Dilan said, his tone respectful but neutral.

Ansem looked up, his gaze piercing yet calm. Upon seeing the familiar faces of Mickey and the others, a soft but genuine smile tugged at the corner of his lips. “Please, send them in,” he said with a wave of his hand, his voice as steady as ever.

With that, Dilan and Aeleus stepped aside, and Mickey wasted no time stepping forward, his usual exuberance shining through despite the weight of the situation.

"Wise Ansem!" Mickey called out enthusiastically, his voice carrying a sense of warmth and familiarity.

Ansem’s eyes twinkled with recognition as he stood from his desk, a faint chuckle escaping him as he greeted his old friend. "King Mickey, my friend," he said warmly, extending a hand toward the king. "It is a pleasure to cross paths with you yet again."

Mickey smiled broadly and quickly grasped Ansem’s hand, shaking it with an energy that belied his stature. "It’s been too long, Ansem. Glad to see you're doing well!"

"You know, my friend," Ansem said, his voice carrying a quiet warmth, "When I spent those long days in the shores of darkness with amnesia, I never once imagined I'd have the chance to see my old friend again."

Mickey's expression softened too, and he nodded with a hint of emotion. "I know what you mean," he said, his tone full of sincerity. "I'm just glad you're here now. It feels like things are finally starting to return back to normal again."

He stepped forward, his usual cheerfulness tempered with a genuine sentiment. "I really missed you, Ansem. It's been a long road, but I'm happy to have you back where you belong."

Ansem chuckled, his eyes twinkling in that familiar way that Mickey had always admired. "And I, you, my friend. It’s been far too long."

Mickey paused, his gaze drifting to the side as a nostalgic smile tugged at his lips. "You know, one day, we should buy some sea-salt ice cream together, just like old times," he said, as if the thought had just come to him, but clearly something he had longed for since the days when their paths had first crossed.

Ansem's smile grew, the weight of their shared history evident in the way his eyes softened. "That does sound divine," he agreed, his voice laced with the warmth of old memories. "Perhaps after all this is over, we can finally enjoy it."

The moment hung in the air for a beat, a rare and fleeting sense of peace washing over them all. It wasn’t often that they allowed themselves such moments—moments of quiet connection in a world so full of chaos. But here, in the study of Ansem the Wise, surrounded by his old friends, it felt like the past was not as distant as it seemed.

As Riku stepped forward, Ansem’s eyes widened slightly, his gaze taking in the young man before him. For a moment, the old scientist appeared to be lost in thought, his features softening with quiet awe. He leaned back in his chair, placing his book down on the desk as he studied Riku closely.

"Well, well," Ansem mused, a note of genuine surprise in his voice. "Look at you now, Riku. All grown up." He paused, his expression almost wistful, as if remembering the boy he had once known. "When I first met you, you were so lost… so desperate for a way out of the darkness." He let out a soft chuckle, a bittersweet sound. "Now, to see you standing here—strong, calm, and with a Keyblade no less—it's... almost hard to believe."

As Riku stepped forward, his voice was steady, but there was a trace of awkwardness in his tone. He gave a small, almost sheepish smile. "DiZ, er, sorry, I mean Ansem the Wise. It's good to see you again.

“It’s been some time, Riku,” Ansem said, his tone thoughtful. “The last we saw each other was in the Castle that Never Was, under… difficult circumstances.”

Riku shifted uncomfortably at the mention of their last encounter. It had been a time of manipulation, of darkness that still lingered at the edges of his mind. But what came next was unexpected. Ansem’s eyes softened, and his voice dropped into a more sincere register.

Ansem’s gaze dropped to the desk before him, his voice thick with regret as he spoke. “I... I never had the chance to properly apologize for what I put you through,” he said quietly, his tone carrying the weight of years spent in reflection. He hesitated, his hands clasped tightly in front of him, as though he was searching for the right words. “I know I forced you into an impossible position—made you hurt innocent people... all for the sake of my own foolish vengeance.”

His eyes lifted to meet Riku’s, a deep sorrow behind them. “And the worst of it…was making you wear the face of Xehanort’s Heartless, that dark image of yourself. I... I can only imagine the confusion, the torment that must’ve caused you. For that, I am truly sorry. For all the pain I caused, and for all the suffering I made you endure… I’ll never be able to undo it.”

Riku was silent for a moment. The words were harsh, but not as painful as they once might have been. He had been so immersed in the darkness back then—so lost in the struggle—that it had almost become a separate life. The memories felt distant now, pushed back into the recesses of his mind, particularly after the Mark of Mastery exam and the journey he’d walked with Sora and the others.

He gave a small, reassuring smile, one that was different from the bitter one he used to wear in the past. "It’s… alright, Ansem," Riku said, his voice calm. "Honestly, I almost forgot about it all. Those things feel like they happened in another lifetime." He paused for a moment, thinking back on everything that had led him to this point—the darkness, the pain, the loss. "But, you know, I made my share of mistakes along the way too."

Riku nodded, and a hint of warmth crept into his gaze. "The important thing is how we move forward," he said. "How we make amends. After all, you helped save Roxas, Xion, and Naminé. And… that counts for something."

Ansem was quiet for a moment, his eyes scanning Riku’s face. There was a deep understanding there, something they both shared—a recognition of their mistakes, and a silent agreement that the path they had walked was no longer something to regret, but something to learn from.

"You’ve grown, Riku," Ansem finally said, his voice softer, almost approving. "More than I ever anticipated. And for that, I am proud of you."

Riku didn’t respond immediately, but he felt a swell of gratitude that he didn’t expect. It wasn’t about forgiveness or the past anymore—it was about moving forward, something that seemed so simple now but had once been so complicated. He could feel the weight of the darkness lifting, bit by bit, every time he faced a new challenge with his friends.

"I’ll admit," Riku said after a moment, his tone lighter now, "There were times when I didn’t think I’d ever get past all that… But now I’m just glad I’m here. With everyone."

Ansem grimaced, his expression clouding with something akin to resignation. He leaned back in his chair, folding his hands before him. “However,” he continued, his voice heavy, “I recognize that you’re not here for a friendly visit.” He looked at each of them, his eyes sharp with understanding.

Kairi blinked in surprise, her brow furrowing as she looked between the group. “Wait… do you already know?” she asked, her voice tinged with disbelief.

Ansem nodded slowly, his gaze distant for a moment. “I do,” he confirmed quietly. “My good friend, Master Yen Sid, reached out to me as soon as he learned of the unfortunate events. He informed me of Sora’s disappearance and how he… he used the Power of Waking.”

Goofy nodded thoughtfully, a bit of his usual cheer creeping back into his voice. "Master Yen Sid sure is always prepared for anything, huh? You never know what kind of trouble we’re gonna run into, but he’s always one step ahead."

Ansem's voice faltered for a brief second, as if even the words themselves carried a painful weight. “It’s a tragic turn of events, but… I fear this may be a complication that even the greatest of our knowledge cannot easily undo.”

His expression softened, but there was still a sadness in his eyes. He shook his head slowly. "I regret not being able to prevent this from happening... If I had known about the Power of Waking, I would’ve done everything in my power to study it, to understand it. Perhaps I could’ve found a way to stop this before it ever began.” His hands tightened slightly, as though gripping an invisible weight. "I should have been more aware. More prepared."

Mickey stepped forward, placing a reassuring hand on Ansem’s shoulder. “You’re being too hard on yourself,” he said, his voice gentle but firm. “None of us could’ve predicted this. Not even Master Yen Sid saw it coming. Sometimes, the heart just takes us in unexpected directions. You couldn’t have known.”

"Gawrsh Ansem, the King's right," Goofy added. "It’s nobody’s fault. We’re all just doin’ our best, and sometimes things happen that we can’t control.”

Riku, who had been quietly listening, nodded in agreement. “We didn’t come here to lay blame. We came because we want to know if there’s anything—anything at all—that you might be able to help us with. If there's something you know about this Power of Waking, or if there’s something you can find that could give us a lead on how to bring Sora back…” He trailed off, his voice filled with quiet desperation. “We’ll do whatever it takes to get him back.”

Ansem's gaze grew distant, his mind working through the possibilities. After a long pause, he sighed, his voice heavy with uncertainty. "There is... one method I’ve been considering, one that might work. But given my limited understanding of the Power of Waking, I must admit—there's a significant chance it could fail."

Kairi, who had been standing quietly by the door, felt a surge of hope at his words. She stepped forward, her voice steady but determined. "If there's even the slightest chance that we can bring Sora back, we have to try. We can't just give up on him."

Ansem looked at her for a long moment, clearly moved by her resolve. Then, with a small nod, he gestured toward the door. "Very well. I will take you to where we’re currently working on this problem. It may not be a surefire solution, but it is all we have at the moment."

He stood from his desk, walking toward the door with purposeful steps. "Follow me. Ienzo and Even have been tinkering with the computers here in the castle, trying to uncover any new information that might help us. It’s a long shot, but... it’s worth investigating."

As they walked, Kairi couldn’t help but feel the weight of the situation pressing down on her. Every step, every moment spent in this place, felt like one more step toward a possible answer, or the crushing realization that they might not be able to reach Sora in time. But she couldn’t stop now. She wouldn’t stop. Not when there was still a chance.

Ansem the Wise stands up from his chair and leads the group into his computer room. With it being Kairi's first time in this area, she notes that it looks drastically different from the rest of the castle. Upon hearing the footsteps both of them looked up. Ienzo’s sharp gaze locked onto Ansem first, and his lips curled into a tight, polite smile. "Master Ansem. We were expecting you," he said, before his eyes shifted to the others. "Ah, and your guests have arrived."

Even, who was standing at a separate terminal, didn’t immediately greet them, his eyes darting between the readouts in front of him. He only nodded, acknowledging the newcomers. "What brings you here?" he asked, his voice colder than Ienzo’s but not without a certain professionalism.

Ienzo's eyes lit up when he saw the group enter, and he immediately straightened up from the console. His usual reserved expression softened as he greeted the newcomers. "Ah, it's good to see you all again." He smiled warmly, his eyes lingering on Donald and Goofy. "Especially you two. It's a pleasure to finally meet you in person."

Donald squawked, his feathers puffing up in surprise. "You’re the one who kept calling us!"

"Gawrsh, it's great to see ya' in the flesh!" Goofy asked.

Ienzo gave them both a small nod, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "I’m glad to finally put a face to your names as well. And Kairi..." His gaze shifted toward her, and there was a moment of quiet recognition. "It’s an honor to meet you, too. I’ve heard quite a bit about you."

Kairi blinked, a bit surprised by how much Ienzo seemed to know about her. "You’ve heard about me?" she asked, her voice quiet.

Ienzo nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Of course. The Organization was always watching, and even if I wasn’t involved in all of that directly, I kept track of the key players. Especially someone as pivotal as you." He paused, almost as if weighing his next words, trying to be less awkward for the remainder of the conversation. "But it's good to see you standing here now, strong and determined."

Kairi didn’t know what to say to that. The thought of the Organization always lurking in the background made her feel uneasy, but she pushed it aside. Instead, she simply nodded, grateful for his acknowledgment.

Ienzo then turned toward Leon and Yuffie, his smile softening. "And it’s good to see both of you again. It’s been a while since we last spoke."

Leon gave a curt nod, his expression serious but not unfriendly. "Good to see you’re still standing after everything."

"Yeah, I thought we lost you there for a minute! But hey, looks like we’re all in this together now, huh?" Yuffie said, eyes sparkled with her usual enthusiasm, though there was a weight to the situation that made her tone more grounded.

Donald’s eyes darted back and forth between the group, processing everything. "Wait, so you guys know each other?" he asked, his feathers bristling. "What’s the deal? How come we didn’t know about this before?"

Ienzo exchanged a brief glance with Leon, who sighed. "It’s a long story," Leon said, his voice low. "One day, Aerith found them unconscious in the computer room, weak and barely alive. They’d been through a lot, and after that, she helped nurse them back to health. They ended up staying here, working with the Restoration Committee to help rebuild Radiant Garden."

"Yes, it was around the time we were recompleted," Ienzo replied. "Not all of us had our full strength upon waking up."

"Once we recovered, I was granted a position with the Restoration Committee as their lead researcher. I’ve been working ever since to help rebuild this world... and to make up for the things I did in the past."

Kairi took a deep breath, her mind racing. There was so much more to all of them than she had realized. The past wasn’t just full of darkness and enemies; it was full of second chances, too.

Donald was still a little confused, but he was less on edge now. "So... you’re all working together to help fix things here?" he asked, his tone a little softer.

Ienzo gave a small nod. "Yes, that’s right. We’ve all been trying to make amends for the roles we played, both in the past and in this world’s recovery. It’s a complicated history, but we’ve all found new purposes here."

Goofy smiled and gave Ienzo a thumbs-up. "Gawrsh, it’s real nice that y’all are working together like this! Even if the past was tough, it’s great that you’re all making things right."

Yuffie’s Gummi phone suddenly rang, its shrill tone cutting through the air in the quiet room. She reached into her pocket, pulling it out with a quick flick of her wrist. Glancing at the screen, her face going from relaxed to concerned in an instant. "Speaking of which, I just got a text from Aerith. Heartless are attacking people down at the bailey," she read aloud, furrowing her brow. "Looks like we’ve got trouble."

Leon’s expression hardened. "We should head over there right now," he said, his voice low but urgent. "The bailey’s always been a hotspot for Heartless. We need to make sure the people are safe."

Mickey stepped forward, his eyes sharp and determined. "Do you need any help?" he asked, a hint of concern in his voice.

Leon gave a quick shake of his head, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "We’ve got it covered," he said. "It’s nothing we haven’t dealt with before." He glanced over at Kairi, Riku, Donald, and Goofy. "But it was nice catching up with all of you. I’m confident that with your help, we’ll bring Sora back."

Yuffie, still clutching her phone, grinned brightly. "Yeah! You guys’ve got this, no doubt about it," she said with her usual energy. "I know you’ll bring him back."

Leon smirked, his gaze shifting to Riku and Kairi. "I’ll be honest," he said, his tone suddenly a little more playful. "I’d love to see just how strong you two are the next time we meet. See if you can handle a little competition. I’ve got a feeling you’ve got the chops, but I wanna see for myself."

Riku raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What are you talking about?"

Yuffie bounced on her feet, her voice full of excitement. "The Olympus Coliseum! Leon and I enter tournaments there every now and then. You should stop by sometime. I bet you two would be great at it!"

Kairi’s eyes lit up with interest. "A tournament?" she asked, a small smile playing at her lips. "That sounds like fun."

Leon nodded with a chuckle. "We’ll see how you do in the arena next time," he said. "Just don’t go easy on us when we meet again."

Yuffie gave an enthusiastic thumbs-up. "Definitely! We’ll be waiting for you! And don’t worry," she added with a wink, "we’ll make sure the competition’s really tough."

"Right," Leon said, turning toward the door. "But for now, we’ve got a bailey to clear. Let’s move out, Yuffie."

Yuffie nodded, stuffing her phone back into her pocket. "Right behind you! Let’s go, Leon!"

With that, Leon and Yuffie were off, heading toward the exit of the study, ready to deal with the Heartless threat. As they left, Mickey, Riku, Kairi, Donald, and Goofy exchanged determined looks.

Mickey, still deep in thought, glanced over at Ansem. "So, what’s the plan for finding Sora?" he asked, his voice laced with curiosity. "You’ve got the research, but what’s the next step? How do we get him back?"

Before Ansem could respond, a sudden voice echoed from the direction of the Radiant Garden computer system. The voice was calm but unmistakably familiar.

[That would be the HeartLink Interface...] the voice stated matter-of-factly.

Goofy scratched his head in confusion, furrowing his brow. “Huh… that voice sounds real familiar… Where have we heard that before?”

The voice chuckled softly. [Yes, Goofy we have met before. You and Donald used to be some of my users a long time ago.]

Donald's eyes lit up, recognition dawning in his expression. “Wait a second! That’s… that’s Tron!” he exclaimed, looking at Goofy, who was just as excited.

"Tron?!" Goofy said, his face breaking into a big grin. "It is Tron!"

Ienzo, standing nearby, nodded with a smile. "That’s right. It’s Tron. He’s been helping us with the DTD here for a while now."

Riku, still somewhat confused, raised an eyebrow. “Who’s Tron?” he asked.

Donald eagerly piped up, eager to fill Riku in. “He’s a good friend of ours, from inside the computers of Hollow Bastion! Back in the day, we helped him fight against some bad guys inside the system."

Riku’s eyes widened as he pieced the information together. "Huh, sounds like you’ve got quite the history with him."

A soft but unmistakable beep came from the terminal, and Tron’s voice echoed again. [It’s been a while, hasn’t it, Donald, Goofy? But I’ve been keeping track of what’s been going on, and I’ve heard about Sora’s situation.] His tone was serious, his voice now carrying a layer of concern. [I think I have an idea of what happened, and I may be able to help.]

Ansem, who'd been listening intently, nodded toward the screen. "If you have any insights, Tron, now would be the time to share them. We’re all trying to figure out how to bring Sora back from wherever he’s gone."

[Of course, Creator.] Tron addressed. [I'll get right to it.]

Goofy tilted his head, still processing everything he had just heard. "Wait a minute, Tron called you 'the creator'... What’s that about?" he asked, his voice full of curiosity.

Ansem gave a soft, nostalgic smile as he looked at the screen, where Tron’s presence was still visible. "Ah, yes. Tron... was originally my creation," he explained, his voice carrying a hint of fondness. "Many years ago, during my studies, I came across the ENCOM operating system, which was developed by a colleague of mine. I was given permission to recreate and modify the data for my own purposes. My intention was to create a program—a digital entity—to help assist with the advancement of technology and research. Tron, as I called him, was meant to be a tool for good, to help people and aid in data processing."

He paused, a flicker of regret crossing his features. "Unfortunately, I never had the chance to fulfill that purpose. Xehanort... betrayed me, and I was left stranded in the darkness. All of my work, all of my intentions, were abandoned as the world around me fell apart."

Ienzo, who had been listening attentively, stepped forward. "Since then, Tron has been an immense help," he explained, his voice full of admiration. "He’s been instrumental in maintaining order in the Datascape, and he’s been a key figure in encrypting the various codes I used to restore Roxas. Without him, we would have had a much harder time working with the data."

Riku, who had been listening intently, spoke up. "So Tron can help us with Sora, right? With his understanding of the heart?"

Ansem nodded in agreement. "Indeed. Tron has been a great asset to us all, especially in terms of understanding the complexities of the heart. His knowledge far surpasses mine when it comes to the workings of the heart, the way it connects with data and emotion. It’s something I could never truly grasp, no matter how much I tried."

Tron’s voice seemed to hesitate for just a moment, as if processing all the information before responding. [The Power of Waking is... volatile. It’s a dangerous ability to tamper with. From what I understand, Sora must have overextended his use of it, sending himself into an unstable state where his heart is lost, floating somewhere between worlds. I’ve been analyzing the data from the systems here, and it’s possible that there’s a way to trace him… but it won’t be easy.]

Kairi, hearing this, stepped forward, her voice urgent. “We have to try. Please, Tron. Whatever you can do, we’re willing to help.”

[I'll do my best...sorry, I don't believe you ever told me your name." Tron said.

"Sorry," she apologized. "My name's Kairi."

[Kairi? If memory serves, her name was in the original password for the DTD. Before I changed it to Sora, Donald, and Goofy.]

Kairi nods. "I see," she looked back to Ansem. "So, what was this device called again? The one that could help Sora?"

He ushered them to the said-device, to Kairi it just looked like a medical chair of some kind.

Ansem’s gaze turned to the device before him, a complex array of wires and screens that hummed softly with a quiet power. He leaned forward slightly, tapping a few keys on the terminal before turning to face the group, his expression serious. "This," Ansem began, "is the HeartLink Interface. It’s a device I created over a decade ago, designed to dive deep into the essence of a person’s heart." He paused, watching as the device's display flickered momentarily. "When a person uses it, the device puts them into a sleep-like state, and from there, it analyzes every part of their heart—memories, emotions, connections... everything. It then makes deductions based on what it uncovers."

Riku furrowed his brow. "So... you’re saying it can help us understand what happened to Sora’s heart?"

Ansem nodded gravely. "Precisely. The HeartLink Interface can access the deepest layers of the heart—its core, its very foundation. It can look at the person's memories, feelings, and connections, all while they're in this sleep state. The idea was to allow someone to understand themselves in a way that would otherwise be impossible." He glanced down, almost as though reflecting on the past. "Unfortunately, I never had the chance to use it. When I created it, I was immediately swept up in Xehanort’s betrayal and the ensuing chaos. I could never see its full potential."

Kairi stepped forward, her voice full of hope and determination. "So... you think it could help us find Sora?"

Ansem’s eyes met hers, his expression somber but resolute. "I do. The HeartLink Interface may be our best chance to uncover where Sora’s heart is and what has happened to it since his disappearance. It could provide us with the answers we’ve been searching for." He hesitated for a moment, then added, "However, there’s a risk. Putting someone into the sleep state and analyzing their heart can be... unpredictable. We’re dealing with very powerful forces. Even with this device’s capabilities, there’s no certainty."

Riku crossed his arms, looking thoughtfully at the device. "If it gives us even a small chance of finding Sora, it’s worth it."

Donald and Goofy nodded in agreement, their faces set in determination.

Ienzo, who had been standing by the terminal, added, "We’ve made sure the system is stable. If we’re going to attempt this, now is the best time. We’ve done everything we can to prepare."

Ansem took a deep breath, his eyes reflecting a combination of resolve and regret. "I never wanted to use this device for anything like this. It was meant to help people understand their hearts, to heal. But... if we want to find Sora, if we want to bring him back, this is our best shot."

Mickey turned to Ansem, his brows furrowed in concern. "So, this gadget… it’ll really work? You’re sure we can find Sora’s heart this way?"

Ansem paused, giving the device a thoughtful look before nodding slowly. "It’s the best chance we have. The HeartLink Interface is designed to analyze a person’s memories and emotions, to unlock the deepest parts of their heart. If someone with a strong connection to Sora uses it, they might be able to trace his heart through their own memories. But..." He hesitated, his gaze shifting to the group. "The connection has to be powerful enough. That’s why someone who’s been close to Sora, someone who shares a bond with him, would be the best candidate."

Riku’s mind immediately went to the few people who might have the necessary bond. "Roxas or Ven would’ve been the ideal candidates, or maybe Xion too," he said, crossing his arms and leaning slightly forward. "They’re connected to Sora’s heart in ways none of us can match, but... they’re busy with their own things right now." He paused, the weight of the situation settling in. "That leaves us with what we have here."

There was a brief, almost awkward silence as everyone thought over their options. Donald shuffled his feet, his expression turning serious. "Well, if that’s the case... then maybe I should give it a shot." He raised a hand, as if volunteering himself, but Riku couldn’t help but let out a small laugh, the sound more out of disbelief than amusement.

"Donald, I'm not sure sure about that," Riku chuckled, shaking his head. "You’ve got a big heart, but maybe… just maybe, you’re not the best choice for this one." He gave Donald an apologetic grin.

The angry duck puffed up his chest, clearly insulted. "Hey! I’ve got plenty of heart!"

Riku chuckled again, but his expression quickly grew serious. "I think I should be the one to do it," he said, his voice steady.

The others all turned to him in surprise. Kairi blinked in shock, while Mickey's face softened with concern. "Riku… are you sure?" the King asked, his tone a mixture of worry and uncertainty.

Riku met Mickey’s gaze with unwavering resolve. "I’ve already dived into Sora’s heart once before," he said, his voice low but firm. "I’ll do it again if it means finding him."

Kairi’s eyes widened, her thoughts racing. "But… it’s dangerous, Riku. You don’t know what you could face inside there. It’s not like last time."

Riku looked back at her, his smile gentle but resolute. "I know. But we don’t have time to hesitate. If there’s even the smallest chance this works, I’ll take it." He looked at Ansem, his expression hardening. "I’m willing to do whatever it takes to bring Sora back. If that means diving into his heart again, I’m ready."

Mickey studied Riku’s face, seeing the same determination he had always seen in Sora. After a long pause, he gave a small nod. "Alright, Riku. If you’re sure… we’ll support you. Just... be careful."

Riku nodded back, a quiet resolve in his eyes. "I will."

Ansem the Wise nodded solemnly at Riku’s decision, his expression both approving and sympathetic. “Riku, your loyalty to your friends is truly commendable. Very well, we can begin the process immediately.” He turned to the team, his gaze growing more serious. “However, I must preface this by saying that the process could take quite a while. Analyzing someone’s heart and memories is no small feat. The heart is vast and complex. It’s much like how Naminé pieced together Sora’s memories, but it’s far more intricate.”

Even, who had been quietly monitoring the equipment, looked up and added, "We can’t be sure exactly how long this will take. This isn’t just about scanning memories; we’re dealing with a heart that’s been through a lot. It could take some time to properly analyze it and make the necessary connections."

He turned toward Tron, who had been silent for a while, before continuing. "Tron, do you have any estimate on the time required to complete the process?"

Tron’s digital voice came through the speakers, calm but deliberate. [Given the scope of the task, it's difficult to predict with precision,] he said. [However, based on similar processes, I would estimate that it could take several weeks, possibly even months. There’s a chance it could extend to almost a year, depending on the complexity of the memories and the connections we need to trace.]

"That’s a lot longer than I’d hoped for," Mickey said, his voice tinged with concern as he looked to Ansem, who was already preparing the machinery.

Ansem nodded. "Yes, I’m afraid this is not a quick fix. But the connections we need to trace are deep. To locate Sora, we’ll need to fully understand the bonds that tie him to others—particularly Riku and even the other fragments of his heart. It’s not something we can rush."

Donald and Goofy exchanged surprised looks, clearly taken aback by the idea that the process could take an entire year. Donald was the first to speak up, his voice high-pitched with disbelief. "A year? How in the world can it take that long?!"

Goofy scratched his head, still trying to wrap his mind around it. "Gawrsh, I didn’t think somethin’ like this could take that much time... that's a long wait."

Riku, however, didn't hesitate in his response. "It doesn’t matter. If it takes a year, then I’ll stay in here for as long as it takes. I’ll do whatever it takes to bring Sora back." His voice was firm, his resolve clear.

"Wait, Riku, I don’t think that’s the best idea," Kairi said, her tone pleading. "There’s no guarantee this will even work, and even if it does, who knows what we'll find? We can’t risk you being out of the picture for that long."

"I think what she's trying to say Riku is," Mickey began, trying to make sense of it. "If you're stuck in that machine, then you won’t be able to help search for Sora. How’re we gonna find him if you’re not out here with us?" .

Riku paused, his expression shifting as he took in the concern from his friends. "I get it," he said, looking down for a moment. "But I can’t sit by and do nothing."

Kairi stood firm, her expression resolute. "I'll do it," she said, her voice unwavering. "I'll let myself be put to sleep and have my memories analyzed."

Riku blinked in surprise, his brows furrowing. "Are you sure, Kairi?" he asked, his concern evident. "This isn’t something small... it could be dangerous. You don’t know what you might see in there."

She looked him in the eye, a quiet but steadfast determination in her gaze. "I know. But you’ve been the one leading us through all of this. You've been a great leader, Riku, far better than I could ever be. You can’t afford to be asleep while we’re still looking for Sora. We’ll need you out here with us." Kairi's voice softened as she added, "Besides... you’re not alone in this. I can help. I’ll do my part."

Riku hesitated, torn between his desire to protect Kairi and his need for her to be with him on this journey. He opened his mouth to argue, but Kairi held up a hand, cutting him off.

"Riku, this is my choice. You don’t have to worry about me," she said with a gentle smile. "I trust you. Let me do this for you—for all of us."

For a moment, Riku just looked at her, his heart heavy with conflicting emotions. But after a long pause, he nodded slowly, his expression softening. "Alright. If you're sure... then we’ll go with your plan."

Ansem the Wise, who had been silently watching the exchange, nodded thoughtfully. "I believe this is a sound decision," he said, his tone calm yet filled with conviction. "Kairi’s heart is connected to Sora’s in ways that cannot be denied. And given her strength, I believe she has a fair chance of reaching Sora through this method."

Riku turned to Ansem, still not entirely sure but trusting in the man’s judgment. "Do you really think so? Will this really work?"

Ansem smiled gently, his expression warm with understanding. "I do believe it will work, Riku. Kairi is the one with the bond closest to Sora besides yourself. If anyone can bridge the gap between hearts, it is her." He looked back at Kairi, his eyes filled with respect. "We will take every precaution to ensure your safety. This is not something to undertake lightly, but if you are determined, then we will do our best to guide you."

Kairi gave a small nod, her confidence unwavering. "I’m ready."

Riku still looked uncertain, but seeing her determination, he finally sighed and stepped back. "Alright, then. Let’s do this."

Mickey gave a supportive nod. "We’re all in this together. We’ll be right here, ready to help however we can."

Goofy added, "And we’ll keep an eye out for any other problems while you're in there, Kairi!"

Donald also stepped forward, his usual gruffness softened by concern. "You sure you’re ready for this, Kairi? You’re not alone. We’ll all be waiting for you on the other side."

Kairi smiled softly at each of them. "Thank you. I’ll do my best to find Sora."

Ansem the Wise nodded thoughtfully, his gaze turning towards Kairi. "Kairi, your heart is deeply connected to Sora’s, and because of that connection, you might be able to trace the memories of others who are tied to him as well—people like Roxas, Ventus, and Xion," he explained.

Mickey, ever eager for any glimmer of hope, quickly asked, "So you mean like Roxas, Ven, or Xion?"

"Exactly," Ansem confirmed, his voice filled with quiet certainty. "Their hearts are intertwined with Sora’s. If anyone has the chance of reaching him, it’s you, Kairi."

Riku, still unconvinced, stepped closer, his voice laced with concern. "But are you sure? I mean, Kairi... are you sure you’re okay with this? This kind of thing could be dangerous." His eyes searched hers, a flicker of fear creeping into his expression. "I don’t want you putting yourself in harm’s way so soon."

Kairi met his gaze head-on, her resolve unwavering. "Riku, there’s nothing to worry about. I’ve made up my mind. I’m doing this. Sora needs me." Her voice was calm, but there was a fire behind her words.

Ienzo, standing nearby, nodded in support. "The procedure is completely safe. It’s been tested and refined, and there is no reason to believe it won’t work as intended."

Riku shook his head, still uneasy. "That’s not the point. Traversing memories... that’s risky business, Ienzo. You know that better than anyone else. If not done right, it can cause more harm than good." His eyes shifted to Kairi, his voice softer but no less intense. "And you—you’ve only just come back. You shouldn’t be pushing yourself this much. Maybe... maybe you should take a break. Go back to the islands for a little while, get some rest."

Kairi’s expression hardened, and before anyone could say another word, she shot Riku a glare that was both fierce and resolute. "No!" she snapped. Her voice startled Donald and Goofy who both yelped. "I’m not going to sit back while everyone else does all the hard work. I’m not going back to the sidelines! I’m a Keyblade wielder too, Riku. I have to do this. I want to help. Sora's counting on me." Her fists clenched at her sides, her jaw set firmly.

Riku was momentarily taken aback by the force of her words, his heart heavy with the weight of his own worries. He took a step back, sighing as he realized how determined she was. "Kairi..." His voice softened with understanding, though tinged with regret. "I... I know you want to help. I just... don’t want you to get hurt." He paused, running a hand through his hair, frustration giving way to reluctant acceptance. "I get it. You’ve made up your mind, huh?"

Kairi didn’t respond, but her expression was all the answer he needed.

Riku finally sighed, giving a small, wry smile. "You’re really starting to remind me of Sora more and more every day." His tone lightened, but there was a tenderness there, a sense of pride mixed with affection.

Kairi shot him a playful, yet determined, grin. "I’ll take that as a compliment," she said, her voice a little lighter now. "And if it helps us find Sora, then it’s worth it."

Riku looked at her for a long moment, his heart heavy, but also filled with a sense of admiration. "Alright," he said quietly, stepping back. "Let’s do it then. But if anything goes wrong, I’ll be the first one to pull you out of there, understood?"

Kairi gave him a firm nod, her eyes bright with resolve. "Understood."

Ansem the Wise nodded solemnly, his gaze steady as he addressed Kairi. "I will do my best during this procedure," he said, his voice thoughtful and calm. "But I must warn you—since your heart is deeply connected to Sora’s, you may not only experience his memories. You might also be able to see the memories of other individuals who are tied to him, like Roxas, Ventus, and Xion. In essence, you will effectively live out their memories as well, reliving moments that they themselves have experienced."

He paused for a moment, his expression serious as he considered the implications of what he was saying. "These memories... they could be fragmented or incomplete. They may not make sense at first, and some might be difficult to bear. You’ll need to be prepared for what you might see. The connection between hearts is powerful, but it’s not without its risks."

Kairi stood firm, her heart racing but her resolve unwavering. "I understand. But I’m ready for whatever it takes," she said, her voice steady but full of determination. "If it means finding Sora and bringing him back, then I’ll face it."

Ansem regarded her for a moment longer, then gave a quiet nod, his face softening with a mixture of admiration and caution. "Very well. Then we’ll proceed. Just remember to stay strong, Kairi. Your connection to Sora is powerful, but so is your heart. Trust it, and it will guide you."

Riku, who had been standing by, watching the exchange with a mixture of concern and pride, stepped forward and placed a hand on Kairi’s shoulder. "Just be careful, alright?" he said, his voice softer than usual. "We’ll all be right here waiting for you."

Kairi gave him a small, reassuring smile. "I will. Thank you, Riku."

With that, Ansem moved to prepare the HeartLink Interface, his fingers dancing over the controls as the device powered up, its humming filling the room. The light from the machine flickered, casting shadows against the stone walls of the study.

Ansem turned back to Kairi. "We’ll begin now," he said, his voice calm but filled with quiet purpose. "Remember, stay focused. Your heart’s connection will guide you, but you’ll need to trust it fully."

Kairi nodded, her heart steady but her mind racing as she stepped forward, ready to take the first step on this uncertain and dangerous journey to find Sora.